Chinese rural canteens serve seniors meals, company

Xinhua) 14:34, November 18, 2025

YINCHUAN, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- At noon, a tempting aroma of food wafts from a two-story building in a village in northwest China's Ningxia Hui Autonomous Region.

Ma Xueyun, 70, and his wife walk into the canteen with their elderly dining cards, spending only 10 yuan (1.41 U.S. dollars) per person for a meat dish, two veggies, soup and rice.

"We're regulars here. It's close and clean. The soft, light home-style dishes suit us and are affordable," Ma said. "It's also a comfortable place to meet our old pals."

The 500-square-meter canteen, housed in a repurposed building in Zhonghua Village in the city of Wuzhong, began operations in August last year mainly to address dining issues for the elderly. Partly supported by the local government and operated by a village-owned enterprise, the canteen serves people of all ages and caters to group events and banquets.

Zhonghua Village has over 3,000 villagers, with the elderly accounting for 30 percent.

By the end of 2024, China's population aged 65 and older had surged to 220 million, accounting for 15.6 percent of the total population -- a historic high in both scale and proportion. The government predicts that this number will grow by more than 10 million each year over the next decade.

As China's population ages and many young people migrate to cities for work, rural areas are left with a growing number of elderly residents struggling to prepare daily meals. In response, government-supported canteens have emerged across the country, aiming to provide not only hot, nutritious food but also a sense of community for seniors.

Village Party chief Ma Jinxin said that for seniors with limited mobility, the village has mobilized a team comprising Party members, community workers, property staff and volunteers to provide doorstep meal delivery services.

The canteen offers discounts for seniors and children, with special rates for those in difficulty, said staff member Mian Lijuan.

Since February, Mian has been delivering meals to a 70-year-old woman who suffered from a stroke and a broken arm. "Her family orders via WeChat, and it only takes minutes to deliver," she said.

The canteen has created employment for locals. Ma Xiuping, 50, works as a kitchen helper. "The job saves me from outdoor work and allows me to take care of my family while earning 2,600 yuan a month," she noted. The facility also has a "children's corner," where schoolchildren can rest and play at noon and after school, when their parents are too busy to pick them up.

Statistics show China had 75,000 senior meal spots by 2024, serving over 2.9 million elderly people daily.

Zhang Xingning, from the elderly work and care service division of the regional civil affairs department, stated that Ningxia is exploring a sustainable, multi-party funding model to ensure these rural canteens can operate affordably in the long term.

"By combining government subsidies with collective, social and individual contributions, we are dedicated to enabling more rural seniors to access nutritious, hot meals right at their doorstep," Zhang said.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Revised study outline of Xi Jinping Thought on the Rule of Law published

Xinhua) 09:15, November 19, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- A revised edition of a study outline of Xi Jinping Thought on the Rule of Law has been published.

Based on a 2021 edition, the revision and compilation was arranged by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and the Office of the Commission for Overall Law-based Governance of the CPC Central Committee.

Xi Jinping Thought on the Rule of Law is the latest achievement in adapting Marxist rule of law theory to the Chinese context and to the needs of the times, bringing significant new developments in the socialist rule of law theory with Chinese characteristics, and providing fundamental guidance for advancing comprehensive law-based governance in the new era.

The book was jointly published by the People's Publishing House and the Xuexi Publishing House.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chengliang)
Texas-based Sewell expands into Boerne with second Land Rover dealership

BOERNE, Texas, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Land Rover Boerne is now a Sewell company. Sewell Automotive Companies, a family-owned and -operated dealership group based in Texas and founded in 1911, acquired the dealership from Shottenkirk Automotive Group. The acquisition was exclusively advised by The Presidio Group LLC, an independent firm focused on mergers and acquisitions.

Land Rover, an automotive manufacturer with British roots, produces luxury four-wheel-drive vehicles known for combining off-road capability with a premium design. "Land Rover is an exceptional brand, steeped in history. We are so grateful for the opportunity to represent Land Rover in Boerne and delighted to pair our exceptional Sewell service, curated for over a century, with its amazing product lineup," said Jacquelin Sewell, Partner and Co-CEO at Sewell.

Sewell Land Rover Boerne is the second Land Rover dealership for Sewell and the company's third dealership in the San Antonio metropolitan market, which includes Sewell Cadillac of San Antonio and Sewell INEOS Grenadier San Antonio. Sewell now operates 21 full-service dealerships throughout the greater metropolitan markets of Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio.

"We are thrilled to expand our presence in the San Antonio market to better serve our customers. This acquisition also represents an exciting chapter in our organization's growth and future," said Carl Sewell III, Partner and Co-CEO at Sewell. "We feel very fortunate to be in Texas and to share our brand with customers throughout this wonderful community."

About Sewell Land Rover Boerne

Sewell Land Rover Boerne is located at 32120 I-10 in Boerne, Texas. The dealership is open for sales from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday. Service and parts hours are 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Friday and 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. The store is closed Sunday. To contact Sewell Land Rover Boerne, call 210-341-2800.

The 47,000-square-foot dealership features a glass-enclosed showroom highlighting the latest Land Rover vehicles, a three-lane service drive, a service shop with 20 bays, and an indoor customer lounge with complimentary Wi-Fi. Sewell Land Rover Boerne offers more than 150 new and pre-owned vehicles on-site, including an impressive lineup of Discovery, Defender, and Range Rover sport utility vehicles. Sewell offers exclusive benefits to its customers including complimentary loan cars, complimentary car washes, and technology consultations. To learn more about Sewell Land Rover Boerne, visit landroverboerne.com.

About Sewell Automotive Companies

Sewell Automotive Companies is a family-owned and -operated dealership group based in Texas and known for its commitment to exceptional customer service, community involvement, and operational excellence. Founded in 1911, Sewell employs more than 4,000 associates and operates 21 full-service dealerships throughout Texas. Sewell represents Audi (3), BMW (2), Buick (1), Cadillac (4), GMC (1), INEOS Grenadier (2), INFINITI (3), Land Rover (2), Lexus (2), Mercedes-Benz (1), and Subaru (1), with locations in Austin, Boerne, Dallas, Fort Worth, Grapevine, Houston, McKinney, Plano, San Antonio, and Sugar Land. Sewell partners with organizations that benefit education, the arts, children's charities, health, wellness, and related causes. To learn more about Sewell, visit Sewell.com.

SOURCE Sewell Automotive
KUWAIT CITY  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs spouse, Le Thi Bich Tran, has engaged in several cultural and social exchange activities as part of the Vietnamese government leaders official visit to Kuwait.

Madame Tran and spouse of the Kuwaiti Prime Minister Sheikha Mona Abdullah Mashari Al-Kulaib visited the Al-Salam Palace Museum. She also held a meeting with Minister for Social Affairs, Labour, Family and Youth Amthal Al-Huwaila, and toured the Asma Bint Yazid Al Ansariyah Primary School for Girls.

At the meetings, Tran expressed her pleasure at visiting Kuwait, a hospitable nation and the first Gulf country to establish diplomatic relations with Viet Nam 49 years ago. She thanked the Kuwaiti side for its respectful and thoughtful reception, noting that her days in Kuwait have left profound impressions, from the modern yet distinctly Arab cultural landscape to the warmth and friendliness of its people.

During the visit to the Al-Salam Palace Museum, a landmark dedicated to preserving and celebrating Kuwaiti culture, the two spouses received detailed briefings and toured the exhibition spaces.

Restored and reopened in 2019, the 15,000-sq.m museum harmoniously blends architectural heritage with modern technology. It stands not only as a prominent cultural destination but also as a symbol of Kuwaits renewal and national pride.

In her meeting with Minister Al-Huwaila, the two sides discussed issues of shared concern, particularly the role and contributions of women in social life. Tran commended Kuwaits policies on family welfare, child protection and womens empowerment, describing them as important foundations underpinning Kuwaits admirable development. Viet Nam respects and learns from these efforts, she emphasised.

Both sides agreed that Viet Nam and Kuwait enjoy traditional friendship, cultural affinities and substantial potential for cooperation. In the lead-up to the 50th anniversary of diplomatic ties, the two countries should further strengthen people-to-people exchanges, especially in culture, the arts, cuisine and heritage preservation  areas with promising prospects.

Madame Tran and Minister Al-Huwaila also visited the Asma Bint Yazid Al Ansariyah Primary School for Girls, which provides a modern and nurturing educational environment. There, they learned about the schools teaching model, visited classrooms and interacted with pupils through art and music activities. Tran underlined the critical role of education in national development and praised the schools efforts to build an inclusive learning environment and the dedication of its teachers to the younger generation.

On this occasion, she presented the school with gifts showcasing Vietnamese cultural identity and conveyed her best wishes to its teachers and students, expressing her hope that the gifts will help strengthen the friendship between the peoples of the two countries.  VNA/VNS
Yaron Mayer*

As we reflect this week, I feel immense pride in marking a significant milestone, the first anniversary of the Viet Nam  Israel Free Trade Agreement (VIFTA) officially entering into force on November 17, 2024.

VIFTA is a vibrant symbol of the friendship and growing trust between our two nations. For Israel, this is only our second free trade agreement in Asia and the first with a Southeast Asian country. This fact affirms Viet Nams position as a key and rapidly growing partner for Israel in this dynamic region.

Over the past year, even amid complex global geopolitical volatility, including conflicts that have impacted international supply chains, our bilateral economic relationship has demonstrated incredible resilience. VIFTA has not only helped maintain but also provided a new impetus, enabling the total trade turnover between Viet Nam and Israel to exceed the US$3 billion mark in the first 10 months of 2025. This is evidence of our capacity for resilience and sustainable cooperation.

Shining achievements in the first year of implementation

The first year of VIFTA implementation has yielded positive results with a visible shift in the structure and flow of goods.

The first is tariff reduction. VIFTA has brought about deep tariff reductions, offering gradual and immediate competitive advantage to exporters. For example, tariffs on Israeli agricultural products dropped sharply, such as on dates, a major Israeli export, which were immediately reduced from 30 per cent to 0 per cent upon the Agreement's entry into force. This makes high-quality Israeli products more accessible to Vietnamese consumers.

Conversely, VIFTA facilitates deeper penetration of Viet Nam's key export products, such as fruit, nuts, textile, footwear and smartphones, into the Israeli market. Notably, the Agreement allocated a duty-free quota of up to 1,000 tonnes of tuna per year for Viet Nam. This is a vital stepping stone in enhancing the international competitiveness of Viet Nam's agriculture and fisheries sectors.

Next is the boost for advanced industries. According to Israel's Minister of Economy and Industry, Nir Barkat, VIFTA is a 'leap forward' and Israel is bringing 'innovation and unique technological advantages' to the Vietnamese market. Sectors that have benefited greatly over the past year include electronics, medical devices, chemicals and especially fresh agricultural products. Computer components constitute the largest share of imports from Israel to Viet Nam. Increased cooperation in these sectors has helped Viet Nam access high-quality Israeli components and advanced manufacturing solutions, thereby enhancing quality products made in Viet Nam.

Unlocking opportunities and vision

VIFTA is more than a trade instrument; it is a mechanism that generates long-term collaboration opportunities for both nations. Israeli technology will find its match in Viet Nam's potential manufacturing market. Viet Nam is accelerating legal reforms on technology transfer, such as the amendment to the Law on Technology Transfer currently under review by the National Assembly, which provides tax incentives and capital support for businesses investing in research and development (R&D) and technology infrastructure. This determination has created a massive demand in Viet Nams information and communications technology market. This is the ideal "playground" for established Israeli companies and startups in AgriTech, WaterTech, cybersecurity and more.

Another breakthrough is Israel's adoption of the 'What is good for Europe is good for Israel' principle. This rule means that Vietnamese exports meeting stringent European standards will be automatically accepted in the Israeli market. This is a golden opportunity for Vietnamese enterprises to drive quality, creating a dual leverage effect that helps them not only reach Israel but also penetrate other demanding international markets.

Infrastructure connectivity will make a difference in the bilateral relationship. One of the biggest steps forward for the future is the plan to open a direct flight route connecting Israel and Viet Nam, anticipated to be operational in early 2026. The direct flight will reduce the large physical barrier, not only powerfully boosting tourism, education and people-to-people exchanges but also facilitating faster transport of high-value goods, creating a new vitality for the bilateral relationship.

Challenges and an improvement roadmap

Although VIFTA has had an impressive start, we cannot ignore the challenges that must be overcome to maximise the Agreement's potential. The biggest challenge remains the dissemination of information and user guides for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) on both sides. Many small businesses, especially Vietnamese exporters, may not be fully aware of the rules of origin, preferential customs procedures or the specific benefits of participation. Both sides are working on specialised programmes, exchanges and developing guidance materials to support SMEs. However, a joint mechanism could be established to promptly address emerging issues and provide assurance to investors.

Israel is ready to bring specialised technical assistance programmes, share quality management experience and technology in agriculture, food processing and industrial production, and thus help Vietnamese businesses meet international standards faster.

Moving forward, we must act together to bring the Viet Nam  Israel relationship to a new level. We need to step up technology and innovation investment. We can look to shifting the focus from mere commodity trade to investment in strategic areas such as digital transformation, green energy and smart city development. Israel and Viet Nam can help each other solve challenges in climate change, water resource management and food security through advanced technology and experience.

We also need to actively promote student, expert and startup exchange programmes. High-quality human resources are key for Viet Nam to master new technologies from Israel, and for Israel to apply valuable lessons from Viet Nam's strengths in agriculture, such as cultivation and new variety adaptation.

VIFTA is just the beginning. In the years to come, I am confident that this Agreement will become a solid foundation for us to not only achieve the goal of doubling bilateral trade turnover but also build a comprehensive partnership, moving together towards prosperity, sustainability and growth for both our peoples.  VNS

* Yaron Mayer, Ambassador of Israel to Viet Nam
HA NOI  Unity is a cultural and historical tradition, cultivated over thousands of years and always a source of strength in the history of nation-building and defence, said State President Luong Cuong.

He made the statement on Tuesday morning while attending the Great National Unity Day Festival in Bao An Hamlet, Go Noi Commune, a Nang City.

The event marked the 95th anniversary of the Viet Nam Fatherland Front (November 18, 1930  November 18, 2025), which is also this years Great National Unity Day.

In his speech, President Cuong noted that recently, Go Noi Commune and many localities across the country have faced abnormal natural disasters and typhoons, with many households severely affected.

On behalf of the Party and State leadership, he expressed deep sympathy for the losses and damages suffered by the people of a Nang City and other regions nationwide.

He also expressed gratitude to frontline forces, the military, police and commune-level officials who have sacrificed and braved dangers to protect the lives and property of the people.

The President affirmed that unity is a sacred and precious tradition that has created the distinctive cultural beauty of the Vietnamese people.

Building on the tradition of unity of our ancestors  'One tree cannot make a forest, but three trees together make a high mountain'  the beloved late President Ho Chi Minh affirmed: Unity, unity, great unity. Success, success, great success.

President Cuong emphasised that from the strength of the spirit of unity, self-reliance and determination of the entire people and army under the Partys leadership, the nation has overcome countless difficulties, defeated all invaders, unified the country and achieved great and historic accomplishments in 40 years of renovation.

He underscored that throughout history, the spirit of unity has helped the Vietnamese people overcome challenges and achieve one victory after another.

In the new development phase, as the country enters an era of building a rich, strong, prosperous, happy and enduring nation, the power of great national unity is more important than ever.

To promote the tradition and the positive results achieved, the President requested that the leaders of a Nang City and Go Noi Commune continue innovating in content and methods.

They should strongly promote peoples ownership, enhance grassroots democracy, strengthen dialogue, listen to the peoples opinions and truly put the people at the centre of development, building a streamlined, efficient, effective and close-to-people grassroots government.

The commune should constantly care for and improve the material and spiritual life of the people, promote socio-economic development and ensure national defence, security and social order.

It should also raise living standards and income, implement social welfare effectively  especially for policy families, people with meritorious services and vulnerable groups  so that no one is left behind.

In addition, local authorities must proactively adapt and build a safe community in the context of climate change and complex abnormal natural disasters.

President Cuong emphasised that the Party and State are doing everything to support people in storm-hit areas to stabilise their lives, while directing all sectors to build a comprehensive strategy to respond to natural disasters.

With the resilient tradition and spirit of unity nurtured and preserved through many generations in Bao An Hamlet and 16 hamlets of Go Noi Commune, along with the determination of Party committees, authorities and the Fatherland Front at all levels, the President trusts that all hamlets will continue to develop strongly, becoming a model for building civilised, safe and happy villages.

On behalf of the Party and State leadership, President Cuong sent best wishes for health, peace, prosperity and happiness to all compatriots nationwide.

He wished the unity of Bao An Hamlet and the 16 hamlets of Go Noi Commune to be increasingly strong and warm, joining hands to build the commune into a modern new rural area by 2030 as identified by the 1st Party Congress Resolution of the commune.

Bao An was once known as the 'most scholarly village' in the central south region. Go Noi Commune lies southwest of a Nang City, along the Thu Bon River, and is a cultural cradle with distinctive cultural, revolutionary and heroic traditions.

After merging from three communes  ien Phong, ien Trung and ien Quang  Go Noi now has 17 affiliated hamlets.

Despite many difficulties, Bao An Hamlet and the 16 hamlets in the commune have maintained stable development, contributing positively to Go Noi's overall achievements.

Actions urged to restore services in flood-hit areas

President Cuong on Tuesday visited and encouraged residents in areas affected by floods during his attendance at the Great National Unity Festival in Go Noi Commune.

Encouraging them to unite, support each other and overcome the aftermath of the floods, he affirmed that the Party and State will do everything possible to help affected people stabilise their lives and allow children to return to school as soon as possible.

The State leader urged local authorities to remain closely engaged with affected communities and provide maximum support.

He also called for urgent actions from relevant sectors to restore communication, transport, electricity and water services and ensure the supply of food, medicines and other essentials for people in isolated areas.

Earlier, the President and the working delegation laid wreaths and offered incense at the ien Ban Martyrs Cemetery, the Memorial House of Hero Nguyen Van Troi and the Memorial House of Governor Hoang Dieu.  VNS
KUWAIT CITY  Viet Nam and Kuwait have issued a joint statement on elevating bilateral relations to the level of a strategic partnership during Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs visit to the Middle Eastern country.

Following is the full text of the joint statement.

Joint Statement between the State of Kuwait and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam on Elevating Bilateral Relations to the Level of a Strategic Partnership

His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, held a meeting with His Excellency Mr. Pham Minh Chinh, Prime Minister of the friendly Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, during his first official visit to the State of Kuwait from 16 to 18 November 2025. His Excellency was accorded an official reception by His Highness Sheikh Mishal Al-Ahmad Al-Jaber Al-Sabah, Amir of the State of Kuwait, and by His Highness Sheikh Sabah Khaled Al-Hamad Al-Mubarak Al-Sabah, Crown Prince. The two sides exchanged views on bilateral, regional, international, and multilateral issues of mutual interest.

In this context, His Excellency Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh conveyed his congratulations to His Highness the Amir on the achievements realized by the State of Kuwait during its presidency of the 45th session of the Supreme Council of the Gulf Cooperation Council.

In light of the long-standing ties between the two countries, the State of Kuwait and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam have witnessed, since the establishment of diplomatic relations in 1976, continuous development grounded in friendship, mutual respect, and constructive co-operation. Both sides expressed their aspiration to elevate KuwaitViet Nam relations to broader horizons of partnership and to open new channels of cooperation that support economic integration between the two countries.

The two sides also expressed their desire to broaden mechanisms of dialogue and coordination, including the work of the Joint Government Committee and the political consultations between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs, in order to enhance the implementation of agreements and memoranda of understanding, exchange views on regional and international issues of mutual concern, and expand people-to-people cooperation.

The two sides agreed that the year 2026 will mark an important occasion to commemorate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations  the Golden Jubilee of KuwaitiVietnamese friendship.

Furthermore, both sides agreed to elevate the bilateral relations between the State of Kuwait and the friendly Socialist Republic of Viet Nam to the level of a Strategic Partnership, based on the solid foundations uniting the two countries and in a manner that reinforces common interests and serves the aspirations of both peoples.

The two sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding the scope of bilateral cooperation through comprehensive programs covering various fields, including emerging technologies, digital media, artificial intelligence, and food securityconsidered a vital area of cooperationthrough joint projects in supply chains, production, and storage.

The two sides also discussed ways to enhance cooperation in the energy sector, particularly by expanding the partnership to include oil and gas exploration and development, petrochemical industries, and renewable energy.

They underscored the strategic importance of the Nghi Son Refinery and Petrochemical Complex, and expressed their anticipation of continued close coordination among partners to develop an integrated plan for its financial and administrative restructuring.

The Vietnamese side welcomed the development assistance provided by the Kuwait Fund for Arab Economic Development and expressed its aspiration for the Fund to continue supporting projects contributing to the improvement of basic infrastructure.

Within the framework of international relations, the two sides commended the ongoing coordination between them at the United Nations and across various multilateral fora, reaffirming their joint commitment to strengthening cooperation and supporting one anothers positions, particularly within the United Nations and in the context of the growing cooperation between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

In this regard, the Vietnamese side praised the active role played by the State of Kuwait in the Asia Cooperation Dialogue (ACD), while the Kuwaiti side emphasised the importance of exploring the possibility of transforming the Dialogue into an effective regional organisation.

The two sides also welcomed the announcement of the Terms of Reference for the commencement of negotiations on a Free Trade Agreement between the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Socialist Republic of Viet Naman important step toward enhancing trade, investment, and connectivity between the two sidesand emphasised the importance of launching the negotiations with a view to concluding an agreement in the near future.

The official visit culminated in the signing of two agreements designed to further strengthen bilateral cooperation:

- The Protocol Amending the Agreement on Visa Exemption for Holders of Diplomatic and Official Passports between the Government of the State of Kuwait and the Government of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam; and

- A Memorandum of Understanding between the Saud Al-Nasser Al-Sabah Diplomatic Institute of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the State of Kuwait and the Diplomatic Academy of Vietnam of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam.

At the conclusion of the visit, His Excellency Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh of the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam conveyed his profound appreciation to His Highness Sheikh Ahmad Abdullah Al-Ahmad Al-Sabah, Prime Minister of the State of Kuwait, for the gracious welcome and generous hospitality extended to him and his delegation.

His Excellency emphasised that the enduring partnership between Kuwait and Viet Nam stands as a distinguished example of principled and forward-looking regional diplomacyfirmly anchored in respect for international law and guided by shared valueswhich continues to provide a solid and reliable foundation for elevating the strategic partnership in ways that foster regional stability and global prosperity. VNA/VNS
HA NOI - Lawmakers are expected to listen to a proposal and verification report on the National Assemblys draft resolution on some specific mechanisms and policies aimed at enhancing the effectiveness of international integration efforts on November 19 morning at the 15th NAs ongoing 10th session.

After that, they will discuss in groups this draft resolution, along with another on some mechanisms and policies to solve difficulties and obstacles in the implementation of the Land Law, and the investment policy for the Gia Binh International Airport construction project.

According to the Government's report, the development of the Gia Binh International Airport is a strategic and breakthrough step, contributing to the restructuring of the air transport network in the Capital Region according to the "dual-centre" model, which has been successfully applied in many major cities worldwide, such as London (the UK) and Tokyo (Japan).

It will play a strategic complementary role to the Noi Bai International Airport, promoting advantages in space, connectivity, and infrastructure, while also creating momentum for the development of industries, logistics, e-commerce, tourism, and services.

It is expected to accommodate around 30 million passengers per year and handle 1.6 million tonnes of cargo per year by 2030, and about 50 million passengers and 2.5 million tonnes of cargo per year by 2050. The total investment capital is approximately VN196.3 trillion (US$7.4 billion), of which about VN141.2 trillion is for the first phase.

In the afternoon session, the NA will discuss at the hall the amended Law on Tax Administration and the amended Law on Personal Income Tax. VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nam - New Zealand relations have advanced significantly over recent decades, culminating in the elevation of bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in February 2025.

The two countries are celebrating the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations this year. This half-century journey has produced numerous achievements across multiple areas of cooperation, reflecting the two nations confidence in the future of their partnership and their shared determination to deepen cooperation in a new era.

Vietnamese Ambassador to New Zealand Phan Minh Giang said both sides have maintained high-level visits and exchanges across various channels to strengthen bilateral ties, underpinned by solid political trust and increasingly reinforced strategic confidence. This includes Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Has visit to New Zealand from November 1921 at the invitation of the New Zealand Government.

He stressed that Viet Nam attaches great importance to strengthening ties with New Zealand, one of its key Comprehensive Strategic Partners in the region.

According to the ambassador, the past 50 years have seen steady progress in bilateral relations, yielding many important results. However, significant potential remains untapped, with numerous areas offering substantial opportunities for further cooperation. The decision to elevate relations to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership has opened a new chapter in bilateral cooperation.

He noted that both sides are working urgently to finalise and sign an action programme to concretise the key contents of the partnership framework, helping to unlock and harness the strengths and complementarities of the two countries. To this end, Viet Nam and New Zealand should continue deepening traditional areas of cooperation, improving the effectiveness of existing cooperation mechanisms, and increasing high-level visits and exchanges across all channels.

Alongside political cooperation, the ambassador underscored the need to promote practical defence and security cooperation, while more closely connecting the two highly complementary economies.

As active members of several major regional free trade agreements, Viet Nam and New Zealand should further expand trade and investment ties, working towards the goal of US$3 billion in two-way trade by 2026. Education, training and high-quality human resource development should also remain a key pillar of cooperation.

Giang added that the two countries need to expand cooperation into high-potential fields, notably science and technology and climate change response - now emerging pillars of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. With strong commitments to climate action, Viet Nam and New Zealand should step up cooperation in digital transformation, environmental protection, emission reduction, green transition, high-tech agriculture, renewable energy and the carbon market, in line with each countrys needs and strengths.

He expressed confidence that expanding direct air links between the two countries would further bolster economic, trade, investment, cultural, educational, tourism and people-to-people exchanges, bringing the two nations even closer.

In the context of profound global and regional changes, the ambassador stressed the importance of strengthened coordination and mutual support in multilateral forums, including ASEAN-led mechanisms, the United Nations and other platforms.

He also highlighted the meaningful contributions of the Vietnamese community in New Zealand, describing them as an indispensable bridge that preserves and promotes Vietnamese cultural identity while fostering friendship, cooperation and mutual understanding between the people of both countries. Many overseas Vietnamese including professionals, scholars, experts and businesspeople are eager to contribute to Viet Nams development and actively engage in community and cultural activities.

Giang said he hopes the upcoming meeting between Deputy PM Ha and the Vietnamese community will provide an opportunity for overseas Vietnamese to share their sentiments, aspirations and valuable recommendations for Viet Nams development.

He affirmed that the community will continue serving as a vital link in promoting Vietnamese goods, brands, culture and traditions to friends in New Zealand and worldwide, contributing to the shared aspiration of building a strong, prosperous and happy nation. VNA/VNS
HAVANA  The online newspaper of Cubas Prensa Latina news agency has officially launched a column entitled CubaViet Nam: 65 Years of Fraternity to mark the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries (December 2, 1960  2025).

The column features articles and photos on high-level bilateral visits by Party and State leaders, as well as people-to-people exchange activities that illustrate the faithful and loyal friendship between the two nations.

Talking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents in Havana, Prensa Latina President Jorge Leganoa Alonso stressed that the column is vivid testimony to the deep bond between the Vietnamese and Cuban people.

He underscored the significance of the launch, noting that it reaffirms Prensa Latinas role in the communications sphere and contributes to strengthening and nurturing the special solidarity, friendship and comprehensive cooperation between Cuba and Viet Nam.

According to Leganoa Alonso, the column is a way of showcasing, through the media, the achievements of bilateral cooperation built on shared political will despite geographical distance and language differences. Readers will find comprehensive coverage of political, diplomatic, cultural, and socio-economic agendas, with particular emphasis on the Vietnamese people's solidarity with Cuba in the face of current challenges.

On this occasion, the Prensa Latina President also reaffirmed his commitment to further promoting professional cooperation with the Vietnam News Agency, in order to increase the dissemination of information and images about the land and people of both countries.

The year 2025 has been designated the CubaViet Nam Friendship Year to celebrate 65 years of the special relationship between the two nations. VNA/VNS
ALGIERS  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation on Wednesday paid tribute at the Memorial of the Martyr, visited the national museum of the army, and attended the launch of the Arabic edition of the book ien Bien Phu by the late legendary General Vo Nguyen Giap of Viet Nam, as part of his official visit to Algeria.

The memorial, known in Arabic as Maqam Echahid, is a national landmark inaugurated in 1982 to mark the 20th anniversary of Algerias independence (19621982) and honour those who sacrificed their lives for the nations freedom.

The national museum preserves around 8,000 artefacts and documents illustrating Algerias military history from prehistoric times to the modern era. Of special note is the display listing the countries that first recognised the revolutionary government of Algeria, including Viet Nam. The museum also features numerous exhibits relating to Viet Nam, particularly its struggle for national liberation and the two countries relationship.

Touring the site, PM Chinh highlighted the many similarities between Viet Nam and Algeria despite their geographical distance, especially their struggles for independence. He said that the two countries share a traditional friendship and solidarity, and called on both sides to build on this spirit to advance national development in the new era.

At the museum, the Vietnamese leader also attended the launch of the Arabic translation of ien Bien Phu. The book was originally authored by General Vo Nguyen Giap, who led the ien Bien Phu Campaign on May 7, 1954, which went down in history as a glorious milestone of the entire Vietnamese Party, army, and people in the resistance war against the French colonialists.

The book has been republished several times, with the general revising and refining it on each occasion. The latest Vietnamese edition came out in 2024, and the newly released Arabic version includes updated content, with additional articles and historical materials related to the ien Bien Phu Campaign, collected by the authors son, Vo Hong Nam.

The publication and circulation of the Arabic edition in Algeria reflect the deep regard and warm ties between the two peoples, rooted in their shared struggles for independence and national sovereignty.  VNA/VNS
HA NOI  The Ministry of Foreign Affairs, in coordination with Quang Ninh Province and the Japanese Embassy in Viet Nam, held a press conference in Ha Noi on Wednesday to provide information about the upcoming Viet NamJapan local cooperation forum.

The forum is scheduled to take place in Quang Ninh Province on November 25, with the aim of implementing agreements reached by senior leaders of both countries, particularly on local cooperation, amid the robust growth of the Viet NamJapan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Le Thi Hong Van, Director of the Department of Foreign Affairs and Cultural Diplomacy, emphasised that local cooperation is a practical and effective channel to strengthen trade, investment, tourism, labour, and people-to-people ties. More than 110 agreements between localities of Viet Nam and Japan have laid a foundation for deeper and more effective bilateral relations.

For the first time, all 34 Vietnamese provinces and cities will participate in the forum following administrative reorganisation, along with representatives from 18 Japanese localities, bringing together nearly 800 delegates.

The forum is designed to serve as the first regular dialogue and networking mechanism between localities, promoting experience sharing and practical cooperation while encouraging proactive international integration at the local level.

Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh is expected to attend and deliver a keynote address. Vietnamese participants will also include leaders from ministries and agencies, the Vietnamese Ambassador and Consuls General in Japan.

The forum will feature an opening, a plenary session and four discussion sessions, covering important fields such as trade, investment, high-quality agriculture, human resource development, culture, innovation, digital transformation, and climate adaptation, and over 100 networking activities.

An exhibition area will see more than 40 booths showcasing local products from both countries and cultural experiences, including Japanese tea ceremonies and traditional ong Ho folk painting. A special art performance will be held on the evening of November 25.  VNA/VNS
ALGIERS  Viet Nam and Algeria agreed today to lift their relations to a Strategic Partnership and pledged to further boost all-round cooperation based on their traditional friendship, following Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinhs official talks with his Algerian counterpart Sifi Ghrieb in Algiers.

In their meeting, PM Chinh expressed his pleasure at visiting Algeria in the historic month of November, which marked the start of the Algerian peoples struggle for independence on November 1, 1954. He thanked the Algerian PM, Government and people for their warm and respectful welcome.

He affirmed that Viet Nam, throughout more than six decades of friendly cooperation, has always remembered Algerias support during Viet Nams struggle for national liberation and in the countrys current development efforts.

PM Chinh said he was moved and proud that the Algerian people hold a special affection for Viet Nam and President Ho Chi Minh, whose name features on two major boulevards in the cities of Algiers and Oran.

He conveyed the greetings and congratulations of General Secretary To Lam and other Vietnamese leaders to the newly appointed Algerian PM.

During their talks, PM Sifi Ghrieb praised President Ho Chi Minh and Viet Nams heroic history. He said Viet Nam had been a source of inspiration for Algerias own independence revolution, adding that the visit marked a defining moment in bilateral relations.

The two leaders shared their pride in the shared history of struggle for independence, which they said had served as an example and encouragement for revolutionary movements worldwide. That legacy, they agreed, formed the foundation for the two countries to overcome present and future challenges and build strong nations.

PM Ghrieb welcomed the strong development of bilateral ties across multiple areas, meeting the aspirations of both governments and peoples. Given the exceptional nature of Viet NamAlgeria relations and their complementary strengths, he said economic and trade cooperation and business-to-business engagement were ripe with opportunity. Algeria stood ready to facilitate Vietnamese enterprises and served as a gateway for expanding cooperation with Africa.

The two sides exchanged updates on domestic developments and discussed orientations and specific measures to advance traditional friendship and cooperation in the coming time as well as international and regional issues of shared concern.

PM Ghrieb reaffirmed the Algerian Governments commitment under the leadership of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune to nurturing the historical relationship forged through the two nations shared struggle for independence.

PM Chinh congratulated Algeria on its achievements in building a New Algeria, developing comprehensively in economic, cultural and social fields and enhancing its role on the global stage. He stressed that Viet Nam treasures its traditional friendship and the brotherly bond between the two countries.

On that basis, the two leaders agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a Strategic Partnership. They pledged to enhance high-level exchanges and strengthen political trust to broaden cooperation across multiple sectors through existing mechanisms.

PM Chinh proposed a series of measures to deepen bilateral ties. In the current context, he said, the two countries must stand united for strength, cooperate for mutual benefit, and engage in dialogue for trust, guided by the principle of listening together, understanding together, trusting together, acting together, and developing together to create breakthroughs in relations.

He called for tightened political trust, more exchanges of high-level delegations, and prioritisation of each other within their respective foreign policies.

PM Chinh asked Algeria to continue supporting PetroVietnam in expanding its investment and ensuring stable, effective operations, turning it into a flagship example of bilateral cooperation. He also urged stronger investment links, market access for each countrys key products, balanced trade, and Algerian support for Vietnamese enterprises in digital transformation and telecommunications cooperation.

He proposed boosting cooperation in defence and security as a new pillar of ties, including participation in each others defence exhibitions and collaboration on cybersecurity as well as strengthening cooperation in agriculture.

Both sides agreed to expand cultural and educational exchanges to promote historical understanding and strengthen solidarity and mutual understanding between younger generations. PM Chinh asked Algeria to facilitate the Vietnamese community living in the country.

He also suggested setting up joint subcommittees on science and technology, digital transformation, health, education, labour and other specialised fields and encouraging enterprises to cooperate through concrete and effective projects. He requested Algerias support for Viet Nam in strengthening ties with regional organisations and member states such as the African Union and the Arab League.

The two sides agreed to continue supporting each other at multilateral forums to which both are members, particularly the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, and to work together to promote SouthSouth cooperation, enhance the role of developing countries, and strengthen collaboration in science, technology and digital transformation.

On international solidarity and adherence to international law and the UN Charter, Prime Minister Chinh said Viet Nam is ready to contribute to global peacekeeping efforts. On the East Sea (internationally known as the South China Sea) issue, he asked Algeria to support ASEANs stance and the principles of freedom of navigation and overflight in accordance with international law, especially the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

The Algerian leader welcomed the proposals and committed to directing Algerian ministries and agencies to work closely with Viet Nam to implement the agreed cooperation plans.

PM Chinh, on the occasion, invited PM Ghrieb to pay an official visit to Viet Nam.

Following the talks, the two Prime Ministers adopted a Joint Statement upgrading relations to a Strategic Partnership and witnessed the signing of several cooperation documents, including:
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HA NOI  In a major push to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing and promote the development of sustainable fisheries in Viet Nam, localities nationwide have deployed inspection teams, tightened control of fishing fleets and worked to handle violations and accelerate the digitalisation of fisheries data.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), the system for managing and monitoring fishing vessels has now been upgraded and more than 8,000 vessels have been registered on VNFishbase, the national fisheries database.

Data has also been merged with the VNeID electronic identification app as well as vessel monitoring (VMS) and electronic seafood traceability (eCDT) systems, helping with monitoring and management.

With many substantive improvements in the control and traceability of fishing vessels across localities nationwide, the EU has acknowledged and commended Viet Nam's efforts.

The MAE has also recently cooperated with the Peoples Committee of a Nang to inaugurate and start operating the upgraded and expanded Tho Quang Fishing Port.

A national key project in the fisheries sector, the port has a total investment of VN248 billion (US$9.4 million).

Tho Quang is a major port for a Nangs fisheries and plays an especially important role not only for the central region, but also for the whole country.

Completing the port upgrade is a vital part of Viet Nams goal to combat IUU fishing.

Managing and monitoring fishing vessels, tracing seafood products and supervising loading and unloading activities at the port will be crucial for controlling IUU fishing, helping improve transparency and meet recommendations of the European Commission (EC), paving the way for the removal of the IUU 'yellow card' this year.

In the next few months, the MAE will continue working closely with coastal localities to complete a fisheries infrastructure system, including fishing ports, storm shelter anchorages, fisheries logistics services, environmental treatment systems and IUU monitoring, helping build a modern and sustainable blue economy.

Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran uc Thang recently held a meeting with the EU Delegation to Viet Nam led by Ambassador Julien Guerrier. The meeting demonstrated Viet Nams good faith in working with the EU to resolve obstacles in the circulation of agricultural, forestry and fishery products, combat IUU fishing, comply with EU anti-deforestation regulations and further strengthen Viet NamEU cooperation in the sector.

Thang said that in recent years, the Prime Minister has often directed ministries, sectors and the 21 coastal provinces to strictly implement a wide range of anti-IUU measures.

Viet Nams legal framework for fisheries has now been completed with consultation from the EC and has incorporated international regulations, especially EC recommendations on anti-IUU fishing measures.

On the basis of these achievements, Thang proposed that the EU organise the 5th EC Inspection Mission to Viet Nam to directly review the improvements in combatting IUU fishing and enable the removal of the 'yellow card' at the earliest opportunity.

For its part, the EU also expressed appreciation for Viet Nams progress in implementing EC recommendations from central to local levels.

The EU recognises many substantive changes in the control and traceability of fishing vessels, the expansion of forest areas and the restoration of natural forests, said Guerrier.

Localities efforts

Under the PM's request, localities must promptly end 'fishing at all costs' and build a culture of 'responsible fishing', with proper traceability for the sustainable development of the fisheries sector and to uphold the honour of the nation and people.

Leaders of ministries, sectors and coastal localities bear direct responsibility before the Government and the PM if violations recur or progress towards removing the IUU 'yellow card' is delayed.

Coastal localities nationwide have deployed inspection forces, tightened fleet control, strictly handled violations and accelerated the digitalisation of fisheries data in just the past week.

Currently, HCM City still has 286 vessels that do not meet operational requirements. All of these vessels have been mapped, gathered in their respective wards and communes and divided into groups for convenient supervision.

The city has also encouraged local residents to participate in monitoring vessels under surveillance through soft-measure approaches.

A notable initiative is the 'morning coffee with fishermen' or 'breakfast with fishermen' model, through which local authorities and law enforcement officers engage vessel owners in direct dialogue.

With such practical measures and strong support from vessel owners, the city has recently reported no cases of vessels losing VMS connection or leaving designated anchorages without permission.

The citys management approach combines deterrence, persuasion and technical supervision to prevent non-compliant vessels from going to sea, while improving fishermens awareness of regulations.

It is an effective model that links authorities, technology and communities, contributing positively to combatting IUU fishing in the city.

Meanwhile, Vinh Long Province has also taken decisive measures against IUU fishing by strictly controlling all vessels departing and entering ports, reviewing the entire fleet and completing the licensing of all eligible vessels.

Statistics show that 2,628 vessels have undergone registration and inspection, or 100 per cent of active vessels.

Along with registration and inspection, the province is also monitoring its entire offshore fleet through the installation of monitoring systems.

To date, most Vietnamese fishing vessels have installed VMS devices, with the remaining vessels currently inactive and under close supervision.  VNS
HA NOI  Viet Nams health system is accelerating its digital overhaul as hospitals expand electronic records, imaging platforms and data-sharing networks, even as funding gaps and workforce shortages continue to limit the move towards a fully unified system.

According to the Ministry of Health, all hospitals under its management now operate hospital information systems (HIS). Around 92.3 per cent use software supplied by domestic technology firms while 7.7 per cent have developed their own systems.

Laboratory information software has been installed in 92.3 per cent of those hospitals and 52.6 per cent have deployed RIS-PACS, the digital imaging and archiving system intended to replace traditional film.

Digitalisation has advanced at local levels too.

More than 99.7 per cent of medical facilities in 34 provinces and cities are connected to Vietnam Social Securitys claims-assessment system, a key requirement for streamlining reimbursements and curbing abuse.

Nationwide, 23 hospitals have fully switched to filmless diagnostic imaging. Nearly two-thirds of all medical facilities, more than 1,100 out of 1,650, have adopted electronic medical records (EMRs), cutting millions of paper files each year and reducing consultation times.

Nguyen Le Khue, Deputy Director of the Ministry of Healths Department of Science, Technology and Training, said digital-record rollout is now complete across public hospitals in a number of provinces and cities, including Ha Noi, Hai Phong, a Nang and Thanh Hoa.

Only three ministry-run hospitals have yet to declare EMR adoption, largely because they have not completed technical acceptance procedures or secured implementation funds.

The ministry is building a national health data centre with server room standards of Tier 2 or above. Online public service portals, digital health statistics platforms and a nationwide electronic personal health record are also being rolled out in phases.

New technologies are being piloted inside hospitals. Several major facilities are testing AI-based clinical decision tools, drug-interaction alerts, chatbots for basic counselling and speech-to-text systems for clinical data entry.

Khue said the shift is beginning to improve the speed and transparency of clinical operations, from drug-use data and consumables to bed fees and laboratory tests.

Real-time data analysis, he argued, could help health authorities issue earlier warnings during outbreaks and shape more evidence-based policy decisions.

A national-scale data set, he said, offers a clearer picture of population health and can tighten oversight of insurance-funded services, helping prevent unnecessary prescribing or overuse of diagnostics.

But progress remains uneven and often slow. Some hospital directors still treat digitalisation as a narrow IT upgrade rather than a sector-wide transformation requiring retraining, governance adjustments and long-term budgeting.

Funding is the biggest constraint, especially for provincially managed public hospitals in lower fiscal categories that rely on state budgets or limited autonomous revenues.

Local procurement continues to be a stumbling block. Many provinces report difficulties in designing, appraising and approving IT projects, and in selecting suppliers in a market where more than 18 companies offer EMR software with varying compatibility.

Hospitals also say they struggle to recruit and retain IT specialists capable of managing complex health information systems, while many clinicians and patients still lack the digital skills needed to use electronic records effectively.

Data standards are another unresolved challenge.

Tran Quy Tuong, Chairman of the Vietnam Medical Informatics Association, said hospitals still store information in different formats, making interoperability a persistent headache.

He urged the \Government to move quickly on a unified national data-architecture model and set clear roadmaps for adopting AI, IoT and big-data technologies, from imaging diagnostics to chronic disease management.

Protecting privacy and sharing data safely remain sensitive issues.

Deputy Health Minister Nguyen Tri Thuc said a new decree issued in May 2025 establishes rules for managing health data but more detailed regulations will be needed to support secure data exchange between public and private providers and safeguard patient information in an increasingly digital environment.

Health Minister ao Hong Lan said the Government evaluates hospitals digital transformation progress annually, using a set of indicators that measure productivity, efficiency, operating costs, innovation and patient and business satisfaction.

Medical training institutions are assessed under a parallel system designed to push universities and colleges to modernise their curricula and technology use.

Officials argue that patients are already seeing tangible benefits: easier access to online services, smoother hospital workflows, clearer information and more transparent billing.

They also say digitalisation can reduce administrative workloads and cut operating costs at overstretched public hospitals.

Still, the ministry acknowledges that the long-term goal, a unified, interoperable nationwide digital health ecosystem, will require sustained investment, a stronger legal framework and leadership buy-in across all hospital tiers.

The next phase, they say, will be defined less by the technology itself and more by whether hospitals can adopt it consistently, securely and in ways that improve care for patients.  VNS
HA NOI  Integrating HIV/AIDS prevention and control services into the grassroots health network helps Viet Nam move closer to the goal of ending AIDS by 2030.

People living with HIV has received treatment at local health stations and district-level clinics instead of travelling long distances to specialised centres as before.

The shift not only reduces costs and inconvenience for patients but also helps normalise HIV/AIDS services as a routine component of healthcare.

The Department of Disease Control under the Ministry of Health assessed that this is a major breakthrough of the Viet Nams National Strategy to end the AIDS epidemic by 2030.

The strategy is believed to mark a significant shift in the countrys approach to HIV/AIDS from emergency response to sustainable development, centred on people and guided by the principle that no one is left behind.

The department also said the most notable feature of the strategy is a fundamental change in mindset.

HIV/AIDS prevention and control is no longer treated as a separate activity but as an integral part of the universal healthcare system.

Rather than focusing on short-term crisis management, the new phase of the strategy emphasises sustainability, expanding service coverage, improving quality, reducing stigma and ensuring equal access to prevention, treatment and care for all.

Viet Nam currently has 519 ARV treatment facilities, 382 Methadone Maintenance Treatment sites and more than 1,300 counselling and HIV screening locations across 34 provinces and cities.

Services such as ARV treatment through health insurance, HIV self-testing via the website tuxetnghiem.vn, flexible pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) models and at-home MMT are being expanded, delivering clear benefits within communities.

Challenges ahead

Despite progress, the journey towards ending AIDS remains fraught with difficulties.

International funding has dropped sharply, creating gaps for services previously reliant on external support, such as PrEP and activities run by community-based organisations.

Domestic resources are still limited, with the bulk coming from health insurance for ARV treatment and a portion of the State budget.

Administrative restructuring, agency mergers and changes in local governance models have also slowed implementation at the grassroots level.

A particularly concerning trend is the rapid rise in new infections among young people aged 15-29, especially students and industrial workers.

Increasing rates of male-to-male sexual activity and synthetic drug use have further complicated the epidemiological landscape.

Additionally, shortages of specialised healthcare staff and persistent stigma against people living with HIV continue to hinder efforts to expand service access in some localities.

Addressing the gaps

To realise the 2030 target, the sector is accelerating the use of health insurance to cover treatment, confirmatory testing and viral load monitoring, while promoting the socialisation of services not yet covered such as PrEP, self-testing kits, condoms and clean needles.

The ministry is developing a National Target Programme on Health and Population for 202635, which includes a dedicated sub-project on HIV/AIDS with essential activities such as screening and confirmatory testing, community outreach support and ARV provision for those without health insurance.

At the same time, the "National Plan to end AIDS by 2030 and prevent any resurgence thereafter" is being finalised for submission to the Prime Minister, creating long-term legal and financial frameworks for ministries and local governments to proactively allocate resources.

We have come a long way in the fight against HIV/AIDS, but the final stretch - ending the epidemic by 2030 - demands greater persistence, innovation and sustained coordination, the department said in a statement.

By embedding HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment into the core of the primary healthcare system, Viet Nam is laying a solid foundation to ensure that all citizens, wherever they live, can access care that is safe, equitable and compassionate.

This is not only a public health goal but a commitment to the right of every individual to live healthily and without discrimination. VNS
HA NOI  The Viet Nam Union of Friendship Organizations (VUFO) and the All India Peace and Solidarity Organisation (AIPSO) on Tuesday held a ceremony to present the Romesh Chandra Peace Award to former Vietnamese Vice President Nguyen Thi Binh.

Binh, also a former member of the Party Central Committee and Honorary President of the Viet Nam Peace and Development Foundation (now the Viet Nam Peace and Development Council), received the award for her great contributions to the cause of peace and international solidarity.

Speaking at the ceremony, Pallab Sengupta, Secretary of the Communist Party of India Central Committee, Chairman of the World Peace Council and member of the AIPSO Presidium, said Binh is one of the most inspiring figures in the global movement for peace, independence and social justice. Her name shines brightly in the heroic history of Viet Nams struggle.

He praised Binh for being a key negotiator for the Provisional Revolutionary Government at the Paris Peace Conference.

She demonstrated the courage and dignity of Vietnamese women before the world, speaking not only for the aspirations of the Vietnamese people but also for all those who fought against imperialism and for peace, he said.

On behalf of AIPSO and the peace-loving people of India, he extended his sincere greetings to Binh, an outstanding daughter of Viet Nam and a global symbol of peace and human dignity.

This occasion also marks the enduring friendship between the peoples of India and Viet Nam, forged through shared struggles and strengthened by mutual respect, Sengupta said.

Expressing her deep gratitude to AIPSO, Binh said the award is not only recognition for her personally but also a tribute to the collective efforts of those engaged in people-to-people diplomacy at the Viet Nam Peace Committee and VUFO.

I am truly honoured and moved to receive the Romesh Chandra Peace Award, named after one of the worlds greatest peace fighters, who devoted his life to the international peace movement, the fight against war, the promotion of justice and the strengthening of solidarity and friendship among nations," she said.

I sincerely thank all of you, comrades who have always accompanied and stood by the Vietnamese people in the cause of peace and friendship among nations.

The same day, VUFO and AIPSO jointly presented the Romesh Chandra Peace Award to Uong Chu Luu, former member of the Party Central Committee, former Vice Chairman of the National Assembly and President of the Viet Nam Peace Committee, and Tran ac Loi, former Standing Deputy Head of the Party Central Committees Commission for External Relations, Standing Vice President of the Viet Nam Peace Committee and Standing Vice President of the Viet Nam Peace and Development Foundation in recognition of their outstanding contributions to building and promoting the peace movement and international solidarity.

The Romesh Chandra Award, established by AIPSO, is named after Romesh Chandra, Honorary President of the World Peace Council.

He was an outstanding symbol of the international peace movement, a steadfast fighter who dedicated his life to the ideals of peace, the struggle against imperialism and the strengthening of friendship among nations.

Romesh Chandra was also a loyal friend who consistently stood with the Vietnamese people, actively mobilising progressive movements and peace-loving forces around the world to support Viet Nams struggle for independence and freedom.

The Romesh Chandra Peace Award was created to commemorate his life and legacy, honour his extraordinary contributions to the international peace movement and recognise individuals and organisations with outstanding achievements in promoting peace and strengthening international solidarity. VNS
ALGIERS  Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, accompanied by his spouse and a high-level Vietnamese delegation, met with staff of the Vietnamese Embassy and representatives of the Vietnamese community in Algeria on the evening of November 18 (local time), shortly after arriving in the country.

According to the Vietnamese Embassy, the Vietnamese community in Algeria numbers around 2,000 people, comprising roughly 500 officials, employees, engineers and workers, and about 1,500 people of Vietnamese origin or with partial Vietnamese ancestry.

The community is always united, preserves Vietnamese cultural identity, works hard and adheres to local law, while maintaining strong ties with their homeland.

At the meeting, community members expressed their gratitude for the attention of the Party and State and pledged to contribute to Viet NamAlgeria relations and to the development of their homeland.

They proposed the PM encourage Algerian authorities to allow the establishment of a Vietnamese association in Algeria, expand Vietnamese cultural activities in the country, and offer more support policies for overseas Vietnamese facing difficult circumstances to return to Viet Nam and participate in activities in their homeland.

PM Chinh thanked the community for their warm sentiments and conveyed greetings from Party and State leaders, including General Secretary To Lam, to them.

He highlighted the long-standing traditional friendship between Viet Nam and Algeria over the past six decades, forged through their respective struggles for national independence in the past and strengthened through cooperation across various fields.

He urged the community to continue nurturing this relationship.

Emphasising that economic ties still have significant potential, the PM said that he and Algerian leaders will discuss ways to elevate bilateral ties to a new height during his current visit, thereby promoting economic ties commensurate with political relations, and enhancing business connectivity, people-to-people exchanges and cultural links.

He updated the community on Viet Nams development, with the economy growing to around US$510 billion, ranking 32nd globally, and per-capita income reaching about $5,000. Living standards have significantly improved; and the happiness index has risen 37 places over the past five years to 46th in 2025.

He stressed that the more than 6 million Vietnamese living abroad are an inseparable part of the nation. Viet Nam has implemented numerous policies relating to property, land, housing, identity documents and visas to make it easier for overseas Vietnamese to connect with their roots.

He encouraged them to remain united, study and work well, uphold Vietnamese values, comply with local law, and continue contributing to national development.

The Government leader also instructed the Vietnamese Embassy in Algeria as well as Vietnamese missions abroad to establish hotlines or other easy communication channels to support the community, especially in cases involving citizen protection.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs should develop an integrated, accurate and user-friendly information portal to keep overseas Vietnamese updated on domestic affairs and Viet Nams relations with host countries, he said.

At the event, the representative of the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology of Viet Nam presented five scholarships to children of Vietnamese families in Algeria to study at the institute in Viet Nam. VNA/VNS
HA NOI  Young people are key agents of change, and their engagement is essential to building sustainable solutions to antimicrobial resistance, according to experts.

The active participation of young people would contribute to create sustainable solutions in argriculture, community health care and environment.

On November 18, more than 500 students, lecturers, experts, managers and policy makers attended the "Youth for Action against Antimicrobial Resistance Forum" took place at the Viet Nam Academy of Agriculture in Ha Noi.

The event is one of the key activities in response to the World Antimicrobial Awareness Week (WAAW), organised by the Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health under the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment with the support of FAO Viet Nam and funding from the UK International Development Programme.

The forum is a venue for both domestic and international partners to share commitments to promoting a One Health approach, while empowering youth to play a pivotal role in the fight against antimicrobial resistance.

This is a global challenge as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites increasingly evolve to resist treatments, reducing the effectiveness of antimicrobials.

Antimicrobial resistance makes infection treatment more difficult causing risk of epidemic spread, prolonging treatment and increasing death rate.

Experts warned that antimicrobial resistance is no longer a distant risk but an existential threat to public health, food systems and the environment, requiring urgent and coordinated action.

With the theme Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future, the WAAW 2025 focuses on the urgent requirement of co-operation to protect antimicrobial drug effects and ensure health for the next generations.

In that spirit, the forum was designed to expand the space for dialogue, helping young people understand the risks of antimicrobial resistance and equip them with the knowledge and skills to act responsibly.

The event included many interactive and creative communication activities such as talks, poster design competitions, awareness games and open discussions that brought students the opportunity to access scientific information, and learn from leading experts in the fields of veterinary medicine, public health, development and policy, especially on the importance of rational use of antimicrobials in agriculture and life.

Dr. Nguyen Thu Thuy, deputy director of the Department of Livestock Production and Animal Health, said that young people play an important role in changing community behaviour and promoting sustainable solutions.

The department has been launching a National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance in Agriculture focusing on monitoring and promoting responsible use of antimicrobials, and expanding multisectoral collaboration, Thuy said.

Attracting students and young people in antimicrobial resistance activities is considered a key factor of long-term effort, she said.

Meanwhile, Vinod Ahuja, FAO Representative in Viet Nam, highly appreciated innovative role of young people.

He said that the active participation of young people would contribute to creating sustainable solutions in agriculture, community health care and the environment.

He stressed that empowering students and young people was not only about serving current needs, but also about investing in a future where health, food safety and environmental resilience are inextricably linked.

At the forum, British Ambassador to Viet Nam Iain Frew, said that antimicrobial resistance was one of the biggest threats to global health in the 21st century.

Raising awareness for young people helped create a solid foundation to minimise risks in the future.

The forum sent the message that the fight against antimicrobial resistance is a shared responsibility of the whole society.

Youth engagement is seen as a foundation for building resilient, evidence-based health systems that adapt to new challenges.

The event also highlighted the role of the National Action Plan on Antimicrobial Resistance in Agriculture, which prioritises reducing the misuse of antimicrobials in livestock production and promoting safe, sustainable practices across the agricultural production chain. VNS
GIA LAI As severe flooding continues, local authorities and armed forces in the central province of Gia Lai have moved quickly to evacuate residents to safety. By midday of November 19, about 10,256 households with 42,525 people had been submerged or cut off. Heavy rain also caused localised flooding on spillway roads and triggered landslides that damaged several transport routes and infrastructure works across the province. VNS
BANGKOK  Tourism leaders warn Thailand risks falling from a top global destination to just one of many choices, with PM Anutin Charnvirakul pledging strong government support and fast-track measures.

A delegation representing five major tourism associations met PM Anutin on November 18 to present urgent recovery measures for Thailands tourism industry in 2025, amid signs of a regional slowdown. Several Asian and ASEAN markets are experiencing declining outbound travel, and foreign arrivals to Thailand could drop by around 7 per cent next year compared with 2024, The Nation reported.

The delegation, comprising the Tourism Council of Thailand (TCT), Association of Thai Travel Agents (ATTA), Thai Travel Agents Association (TTAA), Thai Hotels Association (THA) and the Airlines Association of Thailand (AAT), proposed immediate three-month measures focused on boosting safety, restoring confidence, and countering negative social-media sentiment.

Four key proposals were put forward including a global safety campaign to rebuild confidence; stronger fare incentives for domestic and international flights; tourism-stimulating tax measures; and proactive communication to protect the countrys reputation.

For the medium and long term, the private sector urged the National Tourism Policy Committee to advance six main priorities: reform tourism laws; raise national service standards; improve infrastructure, especially in secondary cities; promote investment in new, world-class tourism products; build a fresh and attractive brand identity for Thailand; and strengthen competitiveness through sustainable development.

The private sector warned that without timely government action, Thailand risks being downgraded from a top destination to merely one of many options in travelers choices.

PM Anutin reassured the associations that tourism remains a government priority. He noted that his recent visit to China opened new opportunities through government-to-government dialogue (G2G) and created space for the private sector to negotiate ways to boost tourism between the two countries.

The Thai leader added that if the Chinese Premier visits Thailand for deeper bilateral talks, the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) could propose a Tourism Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen long-term cooperation and promote sustainable tourism between the two nations.  VNA/VNS
On November 14, the talkshow took place as part of the 2025 Vietnam Industrial Real Estate Forum, organised by VIR in collaboration with the Vietnam Industrial Real Estate Association, Thanh Binh Phu My JCS, and NS BlueScope Vietnam.

The event also covered environmental, social, and governance (ESG) standards, offering participants insights into investment strategies and sustainable development practices for industrial parks while highlighting emerging opportunities in Vietnams growing industrial real estate sector.

Nguyen Thi Thao Nhi, chairwoman and CEO of Thanh Binh Phu My JSC, shared the companys insights and practical experiences in building a sustainable industrial park with forum participants.

Hong Nguyen, deputy editor-in-chief of VIR

Phong Vo, deputy director of Ho Chi Minh City Export Processing and Industrial Zones Management Authority in Ho Chi Minh City presented guidance and strategic information for businesses

The new insights shared at the event were well received by managers and businesses

Ngoc Le, senior director and head of Strategic Consulting at Cushman & Wakefield Vietnam, shared the potential of the eco-industrial park in Vietnam

Nguyen Thi Thao Nhi, chairwoman and CEO of Thanh Binh Phu My JSC, noted that developing a green, modern industrial park is a long-term venture.

Lam To Trinh, vice president of product and segment development at NS BlueScope Vietnam, outlined the companys decade-long ESG journey

Several foreign-invested enterprises from the United States, Germany, Japan, South Korea, and other countries have established factories in Phu My 3 Industrial Park

Participants visited a warehouse in Phu My 3 Specialised Industrial Park

Businesses honoured for building a green future at VIPF 2025 Vietnam Investment Review (VIR) honoured 26 businesses with Green Future Awards at the Vietnam Industrial Property Forum 2025 (VIPF 2025) on October 29.

Industrial parks pivot to sustainable models amid rising ESG demands Sustainable investment in industrial parks took centre stage at a CEO talkshow hosted by VIR and partners at the Phu My 3 specialised industrial park in Ho Chi Minh City.
I have been looking forward to seeing firsthand Nui Phao mine  one of the world's largest tungsten deposits outside China, Rouenhoff said during the November 18 visit.

He emphasised tungsten's status as a critical strategic mineral for Germany, serving as a core input for the defence industry as well as multiple high-tech manufacturing sectors. He noted that one of the key priorities of his Vietnam mission was to explore opportunities to diversify supply sources and enhance supply chain security for strategic raw materials.

Prior to the visit, Rouenhoff and Vietnamese Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Sinh Nhat Tan co-chaired the third meeting of the Vietnam-Germany Joint Committee on Economic and Trade Cooperation. The session reviewed progress in bilateral collaboration, addressed existing challenges, and identified priority areas for the next phase, including energy transition, emissions reduction towards carbon neutrality, and energy security.

Welcoming the delegation, Ashley McAleese, CEO of Masan High-Tech Materials , said, "MHT owns the world's largest primary tungsten deposit outside China, ranks among the top three global fluorspar producers, and is one of the few suppliers of primary bismuth worldwide."

He further provided an overview of the company's mining and advanced processing capabilities, its strategy to develop high-tech materials, and its plans to expand international cooperation. McAleese later accompanied the delegation on a tour of Nui Phao mine and MHT's tungsten processing facilities.

The German delegation expressed strong appreciation for MHT's modern, integrated mining and processing operations, from ore extraction to advanced tungsten refining, and for its predominantly Vietnamese team of highly skilled engineers and managers. The delegation also acknowledged MHT's commitment to technological innovation and sustainable mining practices.

Germany is Vietnam's second-largest European trading partner, with bilateral export volume approaching $8 billion and accounting for more than 17 per cent of Vietnam's exports to the EU. The visit provided German officials and business representatives with deeper insight into MHT's technological capabilities and its leading position in global high-tech tungsten processing.

Concluding the visit, State Secretary Rouenhoff reaffirmed Germany's intention to deepen economic and industrial cooperation with Vietnam, particularly in energy and in fostering partnerships between businesses of both countries. He also emphasised the potential for strengthened collaboration with MHT in critical minerals and strategic materials  sectors in which the company plays an emerging role in Vietnam.

Masan High-Tech Materials to tap into global mineral recovery Masan High-Tech Materials, a member company of Masan Group, is poised to seize new opportunities against the backdrop of positive signals in the global market.

MHT advances its 'Back to Basics' strategy Masan High-Tech Materials (MHT) has reaffirmed its commitment to delivering value through the execution of its 'Back-to-Basics' strategy.
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Stellantis announces the adoption of the North American Charging System (NACS) for select Stellantis battery-electric vehicles (BEVs) in North America, Japan and South Korea, giving future access to more than 28,000 Tesla Superchargers across all five countries. Starting in early 2026 in North America and in 2027 in Japan and South Korea, Stellantis customers will be able to charge compatible BEVs at thousands of Tesla Supercharger locations, significantly enhancing fast-charging convenience and empowering long-distance travel confidence.

All-new, all-electric 2026 Jeep Recon (PRNewsfoto/Stellantis)

Tesla Supercharger network availability will start in 2026 with existing North American BEVs, such as Jeep Wagoneer S and Dodge Charger Daytona, followed by the 2026 Jeep Recon and other future products. Additional details on network accessibility and adapter information for current Stellantis BEV models across brands in North America, Japan and South Korea will be shared later.

This collaboration underscores Stellantis' strategy to offer freedom of choice by supporting vehicles that fulfill customer requirements and meet consumer demand. By unlocking broader access to charging infrastructure, Stellantis gives customers more choice, more coverage and more control over how, where and when they power their BEVs.

Stellantis North America

Stellantis (NYSE: STLA) is a leading global automaker, dedicated to giving its customers the freedom to choose the way they move, embracing the latest technologies and creating value for all its stakeholders. Its unique portfolio of iconic and innovative brands includes Chrysler, Dodge//SRT, Jeep, Ram, Alfa Romeo, FIAT and Maserati. In 2025, the company celebrates 100 years of influencing culture and contributing to the history of the automotive industry in the U.S. and Canada. For more information, visit www.stellantis.com.

Follow company news and video on:

Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/Stellantis

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/StellantisNA

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stellantisna

X: @StellantisNA

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Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including those regarding the future availability of specific product features in Stellantis battery electric vehicles in North America, Japan, and South Korea. These statements are based on current expectations and assumptions and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause actual results to differ materially. Factors include market, availability and reliability of charging infrastructure, regulatory developments, supply chain challenges, and other risks described in Stellantis' public filings. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this press release, and Stellantis undertakes no obligation to update or revise them except as required by law.

Correction: An earlier version of this release did not include the Forward-Looking Statements paragraph.

SOURCE Stellantis
On November 14, the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) signed an MoU with state-owned BIDV to support Vietnams decarbonisation efforts and the government's goal to achieve carbon neutrality and become a high-income country by 2050. The revised Power Development Plan VIII, announced in April, calls for a larger share of renewable energy in the power mix and expanded investment in transmission infrastructure to drive both economic growth and decarbonisation.

In line with government policy, the State Bank of Vietnam has outlined measures to accelerate green finance in the banking sector. BIDV, Vietnams largest commercial bank, has committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050 and pursuing similar sustainability initiatives. The MoU signing reinforces these aligned commitments between the government and BIDV.

In its Fifth Medium-Term Business Plan, released in June 2024, JBIC set out to support both carbon neutrality and economic growth, assisting countries in their unique pathways towards green transformation and energy transition. The newly signed MoU aligns directly with the objectives of this plan.

In 2022, the Japanese government proposed the Asia Zero Emission Community (AZEC), a framework to support energy transition efforts in Asia by leveraging Japanese companies technology and expertise. Vietnam is a key partner in AZEC, and the governments of Japan and Vietnam agreed to advance bilateral energy transition projects under this framework last April. The MoU signing aligns with the policies of both countries. As Japans policy-based financial institution, JBIC will continue to promote business opportunities for Japanese companies through closer cooperation with key partners in the decarbonisation sector.

VPBank and JBIC sign $150-million credit line to finance green projects VPBank and the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) signed a general agreement for a credit line totalling $150 million on October 9.

JBIC chairman lauds Hanoi's promising investment environment Hanoi represents a prime example of Vietnams investment potential, according to Maeda Tadashi, chairman of the Board of Directors at the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC).
According to Deloittes report on November 18, Vietnam recorded two blockbuster initial public offerings (IPOs) in the financial sector  Techcom Securities JSC and VP Bank Securities  raising a combined $1 billion. These deals signal a new growth cycle for the countrys share market after years of stagnation since 2018.

"Vietnams IPO market is entering a new cycle with a high-quality pipeline of deals across finance, real estate, retail, agriculture, and technology," said Trinh Bui, Capital Markets Services partner of Deloitte Vietnam. "This resurgence is driven by solid macroeconomic growth and supported by accommodative monetary policy and flexible exchange rate management. Vietnams upcoming classification as a Secondary Emerging Market, effective September 2026, is a milestone expected to unlock significant foreign capital and add to investor optimism."

At the heart of this transformation are sweeping regulatory reforms aimed at modernising the capital market. The government is enhancing transparency, upgrading infrastructure, and streamlining listing procedures to create a more efficient and investor-friendly environment. These strategic moves are fuelling stronger capital inflows and positioning Vietnam as one of Asias most compelling emerging markets for both domestic and international investors, she added.

The report also pointed out that Southeast Asia's IPO market is seeing a rebound, with 102 public listings across six bourses in the first 11 months of 2025 raising approximately $5.6 billion. Total proceeds from new launches in the region have grown by 53 per cent despite a decline in the number of listings, driven by larger deals, shifting sector dynamics, and strong market performances in Singapore, Vietnam, Malaysia, and Indonesia.

The boost in higher-value listings in the real estate, financial services and consumer sectors has been the primary driver of the increase in total IPO proceeds in 2025. For comparison, $3.7 billion was raised across 136 stock market debuts in 2024 and $5.8 billion was raised across 163 in 2023.

There has been a shift in the sizes of IPOs and sector dynamics, with the market placing more emphasis on companies with stronger resilience. The average deal size more than doubled compared to 2024, rising from about $27 million to $55million, supported by a few larger 'blockbuster' listings. There were four market flotations which raised more than $500 million from Singapore, Vietnam and the Philippines, and 11 with market capitalisation exceeding $1 billion across the region.

Looking ahead to the coming year, Deloitte anticipates that investor appetite will remain healthy, sustained by the continued emergence of new market opportunities.

Rich IPO pipeline can catalyse strategic dealmaking New dynamics in both the Japanese and Vietnamese markets are influencing cross-border dealmaking trends. Masataka Sam Yoshida, head of the Cross-border Division at RECOF Corporation, spoke with VIRs Thanh Van about the latest shifts shaping investment flows between the two countries.

MCH poised to become Vietnam's new 'national stock' Masan Consumer's MCH shares are set to list on the Ho Chi Minh Stock Exchange (HoSE), with strong potential to become the country's next national stock.
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SAN JOSE, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- TransPak, a global leader in packaging, crating, and logistics, is supporting large-scale wildfire recovery by funding the planting of 400,000 climate-resilient trees through One Tree Planted, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to global reforestation and the restoration of degraded landscapes. The company's $500,000 donation will help reforest more than 2,700 acres of Northern California land affected by the Sheep Fire (2020) and Dixie Fire (2021), two of the most destructive wildfires on record.

Image courtesy of One Tree Planted: Reforestation work underway in Northern California

The project is especially important to the company, which was founded in the Golden State 70 years ago, and is continuing to invest in programs with quantifiable environmental impact and outcomes. The donation goes far beyond planting trees. It will help restore native forest habitat, protect endangered wildlife, and help rebuild local communities where these wildfires have caused devastating damage.

"California is where TransPak got its start more than seven decades ago and this project will be a tangible way to give back to the land that helped build this company," said Bert Inch, CEO of TransPak. "Achieving sustainability is about more than corporate goals; it's about leaving a better planet for our children and grandchildren."

Ecological and Social Impact

The project will restore forest ecosystems across key burn zones in Lassen, Plumas, Butte, and surrounding counties. All of the species planted  such as Ponderosa pine, Douglas-fir, White fir, and Sugar pine  are selected for their native resilience in adapting to California's changing climate.

In total, the TransPak-funded reforestation will:

Replant 400,000 native trees across 2,866 acres of forest land

Support 300+ animal species, including five endangered or threatened species

Support 30 local forestry and restoration jobs

Generate measurable carbon offsets that contribute directly to TransPak's ESG and decarbonization goals

Beyond environmental impacts, the project will support local workers and communities in rebuilding in the wake of wildfire destruction, creating sustainable and positive social and economic impacts in the region.

"We are deeply grateful for TransPak's generous donation, which provides crucial support for the restoration of this California site severely impacted by wildfire. The contribution goes beyond simply planting trees  it helps restore critical wildlife habitat, builds forest resilience against future threats, and brings hope to community members recovering from devastating losses," said Brittney Burke, Projects Director for North America at One Tree Planted.

Why Wildfire Restoration Matters

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency found wildfire intensity and the overall acres burned in California increased significantly in the past few decades. NASA data also shows over 60% rise in the last two decades in the amount of carbon from forest fires released into the air globally. Local biodiversity, soil quality, and air continue to face long-term negative impact.

Forest restoration mitigates this effectassisting the forest's ability to re-absorb CO, manage water, and provide life. Restored forests not only work to sequester carbon but also help keep communities safe from floods, maintain air quality, and create healthy wildlife habitats.

About TransPak

Headquartered in Silicon Valley, TransPak has been providing innovative and cost-effective design, crating, packaging and global logistics for over 70 years. As a customer-obsessed, women- and family-owned company, TransPak combines the agility of a small business with the reliability of a global powerhouse. TransPak lives by the slogan, "We make it happen," ensuring that high-value, fragile, and oversized goods reach their destinations safely and efficiently. Learn more at www.transpak.com .

About One Tree Planted

One Tree Planted is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization whose mission is to foster a sustainable and resilient future through innovative Nature-based Solutions rooted in the science of trees. Dedicated to global reforestation and the restoration of degraded landscapes, One Tree Planted funds and facilitates tree-planting initiatives with local planting partners that contribute to climate resilience, ecosystem restoration, biodiversity conservation and community development.

Learn more at onetreeplanted.org

SOURCE TransPak, Inc
Local MPs urge Chancellor to rethink inheritance tax changes for farmers

Steve Witherden MP and Andrew Ranger MP have penned a joint letter urging the Chancellor to reconsider the governments planned changes to Agricultural Property Relief (APR).

The proposed changes to APR, announced in last years Autumn Budget, would limit the current 100% inheritance tax relief to the first 1m of agricultural and business property, meaning many family farms could face significant tax bills when land and assets are passed on.

The government has previously argued that restricting APR is intended to modernise inheritance tax reliefs and ensure they are better targeted.

However critics say the threshold is too low and risks forcing the sale of farmland to meet inheritance tax liabilities.

Both Steve Witherden, MP for Montgomeryshire and Glyndwr, and Andrew Ranger, MP for Wrexham, sit on the Welsh Affairs Select Committee, which recently recommended delaying the APR reforms and carrying out a Wales-specific impact assessment.

That report welcomed the UK-EU veterinary agreement, called for more support on trade after the Tories disastrous Australia and New Zealand deals, and recommended a delay to the implementation of Agricultural Property Relief (APR) reform, followed by a Welsh-specific impact assessment.

Ahead of the Autumn Budget on 26 November, the MPs have written to Chancellor Rachel Reeves raising their concerns over the planned APR changes.

In the letter Mr Witherden and Mr Ranger highlights the threats facing Wrexhams agricultural sector, including climate volatility, poor harvests, and rising input costs, and traces the significant decline in mental wellbeing among UK farmers, which is at the lowest point in four years, according to the Farm Safety Foundation.

The letter states:

We are writing to you ahead of the forthcoming Autumn Budget as Members of Parliament representing constituencies with significant farming sectors, home to proud and longstanding rural communities. APR currently provides farming families with a crucial sense of security, ensuring that their property can be passed from one generation to the next. Reducing this security would force the sale of family farmland and ultimately diminish the amount of land available for food production while breaking chains of connection to the land which have rooted some families for centuries. In Wales, 43% of agricultural workers are Cymraeg speakers, and the importance of protecting family farms to preserve our language and culture has been repeatedly affirmed by the Commission for Welsh-speaking Communities, most recently their 2024 report Empowering communities, strengthening the Welsh language. As Chair of the Welsh Affairs Committee Ruth Jones MP said recently, Our farms are by and large not wealthy tax evaders, they are farms made by families and for families. Farmers are already facing immense challenges  from climate volatility and poor harvests to rising input costs and a growing uncertainty about the future. The proposed changes to APR have compounded these difficulties, fuelling widespread anxiety and unrest across the agricultural sector. We have spoken to constituents in their 80s who fear being unable to transfer their businesses before the proposed deadline, spouses who are struggling to support

their partners through worsening mental health crises and people who work gruelling hours while seeing little profit for their labour. Headline findings from the Farm Safety Foundations September 2025 Annual Farm Safety and Wellbeing Tracker Survey reveal a deeply concerning decline in mental wellbeing among UK farmers. According to the Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Wellbeing Scale (WEMWBS), wellbeing levels have fallen to their lowest point in four years  particularly among farmers aged 61 and over. Until recently, this older generation consistently reported wellbeing levels above the national average  an encouraging indicator of resilience in a demanding profession. However, this resilience is now in jeopardy. The latest data show a dramatic and deeply troubling collapse in mental wellbeing among this group following the Autumn 2024 Budget. This is not a marginal decline; it represents a profound shift in the emotional health of some of the most experienced and vulnerable members of our farming community. We would like to draw your attention to several cases brought to us by our constituents  just a few among many  which reflect the severe anxiety the proposed changes to APR are creating. My dad died when I was 14, and Ive put my whole life into building up my farm so I could pass it on. Im 75 now and still working, but Ive got no personal money  its all tied up in the farm and the animals. I have to pass it on by next April and then live another seven years to avoid a 400,000 inheritance tax bill (IHT). On top of that, I cant take a living out of it  Ive got nothing to live on. I dont really see much point in carrying on beyond April. There is an injustice here. My father and uncle both own the land we farm. They are both in their early 70s and both have had work-related head injuries earlier in their lives. This could mean a larger than normal amount of care will be needed for them later in life. Planning to mitigate the worst effects of the proposed IHT changes and their future care needs is therefore tricky. Weve been farming in Llansantffraid for nearly 100 years. We calculate that on the current policy proposed, the tax due would be huge and land would need to be sold. We pay our taxes, personally and on business, which is a part of life. But not being able to hand down a farm to the next generation (who work on it for below minimum wage) in full, due to ill-thought-out policies is just so soul destroying. My husband initially and subsequently my son have worked hard to build a productive farm. The hours are irregular and the rewards small but the commitment and passion that goes into the work is immeasurable. The proposed changes come at a time when farmers are being marginalised and bombarded with bureaucracy in both senses of the word. So much is expected of them and scant or no regard is afforded to them We therefore urge you to take these concerns into consideration ahead of the upcoming Budget, and consider the recommendations put across in the Welsh Affairs Select Committees report: Farming in Wales in 2025: Challenges and Opportunities.

Steve Witherden MP warned that family farms risk being caught in the crossfire under the governments current proposals.

He said: I am all in favour of wealth taxes. If the aim of the policy was to crack down on the super-rich buying agricultural land to dodge tax, it would be a noble one.

The Welsh Affairs Select Committee is now calling to delay the implementation of the reforms in the absence of a Wales-specific impact assessment. I support this call.

Past that, I would like to see the UK Government make real efforts to identify how the reforms will affect Welsh farmers via an impact assessment, and then properly engage with them to get the policy into a place where it can actually achieve its stated aims.

Andrew Ranger MP added: Our letter to the Chancellor has a focus on the mental health crisis affecting farming which both Steve and I have heard firsthand from our constituents. It is important to shine a light on the effect that these proposals are having.

The nature of farming in Wales is different to other parts of the UK and it is vital that the UK Government understands this and uses Welsh data as well as engaging with farmers and farming unions to understand why we are calling for the threshold to be raised.
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Wrexham Laser Tag launches as example of Shared Prosperity Fund strengthening the local tourism offer

Last month marked an exciting new addition to Wrexhams growing leisure and visitor offer with the launch of Wrexham Laser Tag at Commonwood Leisure.

The new experience brings high energy laser tag battles to the heart of North Wales, offering fun for families, friends, youth groups and corporate teams alike.

The project has been supported with 15,000 of funding from This is Wrecsam, through their Key Fund supported by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF). This investment has helped bring the ambitious concept to life and strengthen Wrexhams leisure and tourism sector.

Nicola Sawford of Stori Brymbo and This is Wrecsam board member commented on the sites fantastic improvement: Since 2012, Commonwood has developed from a small fishery to a sector leading outdoor leisure and glamping destination, enhanced now with the addition of the laser tag. The Dunn family, who won North Wales Caravan and Camping Site of the Year in 2023, continue to develop the site and contribute hugely to Wrexhams tourism economy.

Set within the grounds of Commonwood Leisure, the venue offers sessions for up to 20 players with a mix of game modes including Team Battle, Capture the Flag and Last Man Standing.

After the action, guests can relax at the on site Acorn Pizzeria and Bar, or extend their stay with the range of accommodation available, including luxury glamping pods and spacious family lodges surrounded by stunning countryside views.

The attraction is already proving popular, welcoming families, schools and local businesses looking for something different.

Beyond the fun, the project contributes to local employment, boosts visitor numbers and enhances Wrexhams growing reputation as a destination for adventure, creativity and community spirit.

This is exactly the kind of project that captures what Wrexham is all about  imagination, investment and opportunity,  Nicola added.

We are thrilled, as This is Wrecsam, to play a partin helping it grow.

Councillor Mark Pritchard, Leader of Wrexham Council, said: As a council weve helped allocate millions of pounds of UK Shared Prosperity Funding (SPF) to local projects, and this is another great example of how were using the fund to support businesses here in Wrexham.

Tourism is hugely important for the county borough, and its fantastic to see SPF initiatives helping to strengthen the local tourism offer.

The This is Wrecsam Key Fund has received 150,000 Governments UK Shared Prosperity Fund
A chairwoman for the Clark County Republican Party has filed an election integrity violation report against actions taken by Attorney General Aaron Ford.

AG Ford announced his candidacy for governor of Nevada earlier this year.

The complaint, filed by Jill Douglass, alleges that he violated the Nevada Revised Statutes for campaign practices during a blackout period.

The current Nevada Legislative Special Session qualifies as a blackout period, and Douglass says AG Ford failed to close his fundraising period until at least the day after the Special Session was announced.

We've reached out to AG Ford for a comment, but have yet to hear back.
Two-thirds of the Nevada Legislature have signed a petition to introduce a housing affordability bill during the special session.

Nevada Senate Democrats say the petition declares that the housing affordability crisis is an "extraordinary occasion" to be addressed during the current special session.

The move paves the way for the immediate consideration of Senator Dina Neals legislation to crack down on corporate ownership of Nevadas residential housing market.

Senate Bill 10 is expected to get a policy hearing on Wednesday.

SB 10 is a revival of Senate Bill 391, a measure designed to curb the monopolization of the housing market by Wall Street hedge funds and out-of-state corporations.

The bill seeks to limit the number of homes corporate entities can buy annually, a practice the Nevada Senate Democrats say has inflated home prices and squeezed out first-time homebuyers.

In 2023, a similar measure, SB395, was vetoed by Governor Joe Lombardo despite bipartisan support.

A report from UNLV's Lied Center for Real Estate says investor activity in peaked in 2022, when investors accounted for roughly 1 in 5 home sales. Since then the share has gone down but remains above pre-COVID levels.

Congressman Steven Horsford (NV-4) launched a housing policy platform in May and released the following statement:

Nevadans continue to struggle through a housing crisis of Wall Streets making  I support S.B. 10 and commend state lawmakers for working to provide relief, Rep. Horsford said. With nearly a quarter of all home sales last year going to investors, our neighborhoods are being hollowed out, and residents are being priced out. I launched a housing policy platform in May to confront this issue head-on, and Im glad to see S.B. 10 building on that effort. There is a clear need for a policy solution to ensure the American Dream of home ownership is more than a pipe dream for residents of the Silver State.

The Housing Oversight and Mitigation Exploitation (HOME) Act would require needed oversight over the housing market to prevent investors from manipulating it, and hold corporate property owners accountable for price manipulation.

The Utilizing National Land for Opportunities and Community Key (UNLOCK) Housing Act would increase access to affordable housing by fast-tracking the Bureau of Land Managements process for opening federal lands up to property development.

The Housing Market Transparency Act would require properties receiving Low-Income Housing Tax Credits (LIHTC) to provide annual data on development costs, habitability standards, and ownership information, which will ensure tenants know when rent increases or if there are changes in property ownership.
Washoe County's Search & Rescue team rescued five people and two dogs after they got stuck in deep snow near Verdi.

The sheriff's office says the group of off-roaders got stuck on the dirt extension of Garson Road Monday night.

Deputies say one vehicle became stuck in the snow while off-roading and called for help, but the second vehicle that responded also became stuck.

WCSO SAR deployed a team of volunteers from our Specialized Vehicle Unit (SVU) along with a medic. They say the team drove their side-by-sides into the mountains and located the stranded vehicles.

The SAR volunteers successfully transported five people and two dogs out of the mountains and to safety.

"Our volunteers are always ready to answer the call to serve our community. They are experts in their fields and train year-round to be prepared when emergencies arise. We appreciate their dedication and commitment to helping those in need," says the Washoe County Sheriff's Office.
Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers abruptly went on leave Wednesday from teaching at Harvard University, where he once served as president, over recently released emails showing he maintained a friendly relationship with Jeffrey Epstein, Summers' spokesperson said.

Summers had canceled his public commitments amid the fallout of the emails being made public and earlier Wednesday severed ties with OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT. Harvard had reopened an investigation into connections between him and Epstein, but Summers had said he would continue teaching economics classes at the school.

That changed Wednesday evening with the news that he will step away from teaching classes as well as his position as director of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government with the Harvard Kennedy School.

Mr. Summers has decided its in the best interest of the Center for him to go on leave from his role as Director as Harvard undertakes its review," Summers spokesperson Steven Goldberg said, adding that his co-teachers would finish the classes.

Summers has not been scheduled to teach next semester, according to Goldberg.

A Harvard spokesperson confirmed to The Associated Press that Summers had let the university know about his decision. Summers decision to go on leave was first reported by The Harvard Crimson.

Harvard did not mention Summers by name in its decision to restart an investigation, but the move follows the release of emails showing that he was friendly with Epstein long after the financier pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl in 2008.

By Wednesday, the once highly regarded economics expert had been facing increased scrutiny over choosing to stay in the teaching role. Some students even filmed his appearance in shock as he appeared before a class of undergraduates on Tuesday while stressing he thought it was important to continue teaching.

Massachusetts Sen. Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat, said in a social media post on Wednesday night that Summers cozied up to the rich and powerful  including a convicted sex offender. He cannot be trusted in positions of influence.

Messages appear to seek advice about romantic relationship

The emails include messages in which Summers appeared to be getting advice from Epstein about pursuing a romantic relationship with someone who viewed him as an economic mentor.

im a pretty good wing man , no? Epstein wrote on Nov. 30, 2018.

The next day, Summers told Epstein he had texted the woman, telling her he had something brief to say to her.

Am I thanking her or being sorry re my being married. I think the former, he wrote.

Summers wife, Elisa New, also emailed Epstein multiple times, including a 2015 message in which she thanked him for arranging financial support for a poetry project she directs. The gift he arranged changed everything for me, she wrote.

"It really means a lot to me, all financial help aside, Jeffrey, that you are rooting for me and thinking about me, she wrote.

New, an English professor emerita at Harvard, did not respond to an email seeking comment Wednesday.

An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex-crimes conviction and was given his own office and unfettered access to a research center he helped establish. The professor who provided the office was later barred from starting new research or advising students for at least two years.

Summers appears before Harvard class

On Tuesday, Summers appeared before his class at Harvard, where he teaches The Political Economy of Globalization to undergraduates with Robert Lawrence, a professor with the Harvard Kennedy School.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr. Epstein and that Ive said that Im going to step back from public activities for a while. But I think its very important to fulfill my teaching obligations," he said.

Summers' remarks were captured on video by several students, but no one appeared to publicly respond to his comments.

Epstein, who authorities said died by suicide in 2019, was a convicted sex offender infamous for his connections to wealthy and powerful people, making him a fixture of outrage and conspiracy theories about wrongdoing among American elites.

Summers served as treasury secretary from 1999 to 2001 under President Bill Clinton. He was Harvards president for five years from 2001 to 2006. When asked about the emails last week, Summers issued a statement saying he has great regrets in my life and that his association with Epstein was a major error in judgement.

Other organizations that confirmed the end of their affiliations with Summers included the Center for American Progress, the Center for Global Development and the Budget Lab at Yale University. Bloomberg TV said Summers withdrawal from public commitments included his role as a paid contributor, and the New York Times said it will not renew his contract as a contributing opinion writer.

This story has been corrected to show that Summers is a former treasury secretary, not treasurer; to show that Summers' statement about stepping back from public commitments was issued late Monday, not Tuesday; and to show that the school is known as the Harvard Kennedy School, not Kennedy Harvard School.

Associated Press journalist Hallie Golden contributed to this report.
Former U.S. Ambassador to Kenya and businesswoman Meg Whitman was the guest speaker during a Tuesday NAIOP luncheon at the Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown hotel.

Business executive and former U.S. ambassador to Kenya Meg Whitman called for changes to New Mexicos economy, education and health care systems at a luncheon Tuesday afternoon, urging state leaders across multiple industries to change the narrative about the Land of Enchantment from a state of scarcity to a place of abundance.

New Mexico is an undiscovered gem in many ways, Whitman said. This is the most beautiful state that Ive practically ever been to, and yet that story is not well told.

Whitman, who recently relocated to the state after her husband, Dr. Griffith Harsh IV, became the head of neurosurgery at the University of New Mexico, spoke at an event hosted by NAIOP New Mexico and moderated by NAIOP Board President Adam Silverman.

Whitman is the former CEO of eBay and Hewlett Packard Enterprise, and ran as the Republican nominee for governor of California in 2010, when she was defeated by Democrat Jerry Brown. Whitman, who served as ambassador to Kenya under former President Joe Biden, said she is now a registered Democrat.

As CEO of eBay, Whitman took the company from $5.7 million in sales to $8 billion over the course of a decade. She is one of the worlds richest self-made women, with a personal net worth of $3.8 billion, according to Forbes.

New Mexico has one of the largest sovereign wealth funds of any state in the country, and Whitman said Tuesday the state should be using some of the $66 billion it has accumulated from natural resources and investments for improving infrastructure and public programs.

People say New Mexico is a poor state, Whitman said to an audience of around 200 real estate and business leaders. New Mexico is not a poor state. New Mexico is a rich state. You have poor people that need assistance, but this is not a poor state anymore.

The state should use the money to prioritize improving health care outcomes, building affordable housing, creating jobs and fixing its public education system, which often ranks last in the country for academic performance, she said.

Something needs to be done about your K-12 education system here, Whitman said. This is not good. Being 50th out of 50 states is not the place you want to be.

Whitman acknowledged the election of new candidates to the Board of Education at Albuquerque Public Schools during her address.

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Earlier this month, teachers union-backed Rebecca Betzen unseated NAIOP-endorsed incumbent school board President Danielle Gonzales in a surprise upset.

Theres been some new people elected to the Board of Education. Thats the first part. Thats our first start, she said.

Whitman also called for changes to the University of New Mexico in the hopes of improving the schools lower-than-average six-year graduation rate and making it more attractive to out-of-state students.

If K-12 is a mess, then the University of New Mexico is going to be a mess, too, because youre going to get a lot of kids who arent prepared to take advantage of the free tuition, she said.

The states flagship university is a giant asset with tremendous potential, Whitman said. She suggested UNM adopt a few key research specialties in order to be competitive with top institutions nationwide.

Improving graduation rates at UNM is one of three things Whitman said she would do to better the quality of life in Albuquerque and make the state more attractive to out-of-state businesses and primed for economic growth.

Whitman said she would work with Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller and with the state Legislature to optimize the business climate, by changing taxes and regulations, making New Mexico a competitive place for business, tourism and manufacturing. She told the audience she would work to create jobs by touting the many benefits of New Mexico via public outreach.

The former ambassador told the crowd at the Sheraton Albuquerque Uptown she was weighing her own next steps after finding herself without a full-time job for the first time since she was 23. When asked by NAIOP Executive Director Rhiannon Samuel whether or not she would consider a run for governor, Whitman demurred.

You have to live in New Mexico for five years, she said.
One of Verus Researchs Albuquerque facilities. The research and development company recently secured two $6 million-plus contracts by the U.S. Navy.

An Albuquerque-based defense contractor acquired earlier this year, but that still maintains a presence in the city, has been awarded two multimillion-dollar contracts this month by the U.S. Navy.

Verus Research, now part of Radiance Technologies, secured contracts with the military branch for $6.7 million and $6 million to develop weapons defense systems, Verus CEO Grady Patterson said.

That includes the Ship Electromagnetic Acquisition System and the Adaptive Radio Frequency Chamber and Hardware, the former of which is for two and a half years and will see the company build a suite of sensors that will then analyze simulated pulses on ships to dictate how those vessels will react to the environment, Patterson said.

Verus is not building a ship or the simulator, he added, only the instrument that will measure the effects of electromagnetic energy hitting them. Patterson said electromagnetic pulses can be generated from devices, like what was used to cause the citywide blackout in the film Oceans Eleven, or by nuclear explosions.

The Navy has a need to understand how its ships will survive an electromagnetic pulse, Patterson said. How do we know what our naval vessels will do in that environment?

The $6 million award, which spans four years, will implement Verus Adaptive Radio Frequency Chamber and Hardware technology  basically, a sensor sent into the air that measures radio frequencies  within Navy operations on testing targets or actual threats. The company, founded in 2014, will examine how it can add these sensors onto items like drones to get a sense of what actually gets to what is being aimed at, Patterson said.

For example, if someone is shooting bullets at a large bucket in the air, Patterson said the Navy wants to understand how many bullets made it into the bucket. Similarly, Verus would do the same test from different directions and speeds.

You want to do all these different testing elements to understand what scenarios might be effective or what scenarios might not be effective, Patterson said. What were doing is building radio frequency hardware that allows us to better understand the engagement.

Both contracts are all about being proactive, Patterson said. In dangerous situations, like weaponized fighting or inclement weather, its important for services like the Navy to be prepared for anything.

Patterson said the awards show that, despite being acquired, Verus is still here in Albuquerque.

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These are just two examples of how were continuing to try to bring new technology, business and jobs to New Mexico, Patterson said. Nothings changed. Were still doing what weve been doing.
Arabella Sanchez picks out books from the book drive in the library at Pajarito Elementary School on Tuesday afternoon. Roberto E. Rosales

Pajarito Elementary School Principal Jessica LaCour stops to chat with students as they line up in the hallway before entering class at Pajarito Elementary School on Tuesday afternoon. Roberto E. Rosales

Ten-year-old Zaire Pena continues to read her book during class at Pajarito Elementary School. The school was one of nine APS campuses that moved into good standing due to students improved academic achievements. Roberto E. Rosales

List of schools that moved out of designation List of schools that moved out of designation APS: Armijo Elementary, Ernie Pyle Middle School, Jefferson Middle School, Jimmy Carter Middle School, John Adams Middle School, Kit Carson Elementary, Lavaland Elementary, Pajarito Elementary and Sombra del Monte Elementary Bernalillo Public Schools: Cochiti Elementary School Central Consolidated School District: Mesa Elementary School Deming Public Schools: Mimbres Valley High School Dulce ISD: Dulce High School House Municipal Schools: House High School Jemez Valley Public Schools: Jemez Valley Elementary School Las Cruces Public Schools: Zia Middle School Taos Municipal Schools: Taos Cyber Magnet School PED Charters: Northpoint Charter School and The Great Academy Source: New Mexico Public Education Department

Nineteen New Mexico schools are no longer designated by the states Public Education Department for poor academic performance after showing strides in student achievement and in improving learning environments.

Nearly half of those are in the largest school district in the state, Albuquerque Public Schools, where five elementary schools and four middle schools were taken off of two designation lists due to improvements in academic performance.

The district still has 28 campuses with designated status, including 13 charter schools for which APS does not oversee the day-to-day operations.

PED has four designations for struggling schools:

Targeted Support and Improvement Schools for campuses with consistently underperforming student groups,

Additional Targeted Support and Improvement Schools, which are defined as those in need of support with one or more of the lowest performing groups of students,

Comprehensive Support and Improvement Schools, which are those scoring in the bottom 5% of Title I schools overall or that have a graduation rate below 67% and

More Rigorous Interventions Schools, those that have not improved enough after three years of receiving support.

If a campus remains on these lists long enough, PED can close and reopen the school, but that sort of Draconian measure has not ever been exercised, according to Amanda DeBell, PEDs Deputy Secretary of Teaching, Learning and Innovation.

She added that APS success in getting nine schools off the list comes down to similar goals between the state agency and the district.

We know that (what) the Albuquerque Public Schools has done is they have focused really tightly to improving outcomes with their strategic plan, DeBell said. And their strategic plan is not that far out of alignment with the PED strategic plan.

That was echoed by APS Chief Academic Officer Sheri Jett, who said one of the districts established goals of building students self-efficacy was showing up in improved academics at the nine schools for which the designation was removed.

When we look at those nine schools, and we see their academic achievement increasing, we are also seeing their perceptions and skills, habits and mindsets increasing, she said. That is a major part of the story wed like to tell: Those skills lead to academic success, they lead to higher attendance, and, like I mentioned, student persistence.

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The districts strategic plan is centered around the goals and guardrails set by the board in 2023. The teachers union president, Ellen Bernstein, questioned the value of those goals and guardrails after the union retook control of the school board in the recent election.

But Jett believes the goal of building students skills, habits, and mindsets will remain despite any sea change on the APS board.

I dont have any concerns about that, because I think the board has a role, and I respect that deeply, but so does the administration, Jett said. The things weve put in place have momentum beyond the goals at this point ... I know for a fact that the board is not going to say, Stop doing good work.

In addition to the nine schools taken off the designation lists, the district also had two elementary schools moved from the Comprehensive Support and Improvement schools designation to the Targeted Support and Improvement designation.

Barcelona Elementary School remains designated for historically low performance in reading and math for Students with Disabilities, and at Emerson Elementary, the school saw historically low performance in math for Hispanic students, according to APS spokesperson Martin Salazar.

We look at those designations really thoughtfully, like its telling us something about what is happening in that school, the supports that they need and the changes we need to make, Jett said. The goal is, obviously, to move everybody out of designation, right? And so we still have schools that are in designation, and were going to continue that process with them.

While the designation status can be concerning for schools, Elisabeth Peterson, director of the Priority Schools Department at the PED, said it also means the state offers more assistance to improve.

Youre going to get more attention, youre going to get more resources in the form of a grant, and youre going to get more support, she said. We really collaboratively want to work with schools who understand their community, who understand their data, who understand or need to have a deeper dive into What does this mean, what does the designation mean?
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By David Robbins, Director, Retirement and Glyn Bradley, Director, Retirement, WTW On 14 November, after the Government had briefed journalists that income tax rates would not rise after all, ITV's Robert Peston reported that the Chancellor believes she can get the revenue she needs through a combination of measures that includes "abolishing the salary sacrifice scheme for pension contributions". That more dramatic change would be consistent with other recent reports that the Chancellor is looking for significant sums from salary sacrifice  for example from restricting the cost of bicycles purchased under the Cycle to Work scheme  but, at the time of writing, has not been confirmed elsewhere. A large majority of revenue raised for the Exchequer from either change would come from employer National Insurance. This is slightly less the case with outright abolition (because this captures more employees paid 50,270 or less, who pay NICs at the main rate), but even there only around one quarter of the revenue would come from employee NICs. As yet, there have been no reports that National Insurance relief on employer pension contributions that do not arise from salary sacrifice will be restricted or abolished. That was heavily trailed before the 2024 Budget but did not happen. What is salary sacrifice?

Under salary sacrifice, an employee agrees to waive part of their contractual salary, replacing the amount waived with another benefit. Salary sacrifice is widely integrated into workplace pension designs because salaries are subject to both employer and employee National Insurance (NI), whereas employer pension contributions are NI-free. The main rate of employee National Insurance is currently 8%, with 2% payable on income above the Upper Earnings limit (50,270). Employer National Insurance is charged at 15% on all earnings above the Secondary Threshold (currently 5,000). For example, if an employee paying the main rate wanted to contribute 3,000 to a pension, doing this through salary sacrifice could save the employee 240 in employee NI, while the employer would save 450. Some employers directly share their NI saving with employees, using a proportion of it to fund an additional pension contribution; in other cases, the NI savings indirectly feed into the pay rises and other benefits that the employer offers. Origins of a 2,000 cap

The idea of limiting salary sacrifice to 2,000 was first explored in a research report that HMRC commissioned under the previous Government. A cap along these lines was by far the most moderate of three proposals explored with employers. The others were: (a) removing the National Insurance advantages of salary sacrifice altogether for both employees and employers (as implied by Robert Peston), and (b) not only removing NI breaks but also charging income tax on contributions paid by salary sacrifice. The second seemed punitive (presumably with the intention of stopping salary sacrifice altogether?) when pension withdrawals derived from these contributions will be largely taxable. Unsurprisingly, employers who had just been shown more draconian ideas found a 2,000 cap an "easier pill to swallow", in the words of one. Nonetheless, the researchers noted that "most employers were still concerned that this scenario resulted in a reduction of benefits and... could disincentivise saving for a pension". How much would this cost employers and employees?

Table 1 shows the total NI savings for employees and employers where employees sacrifice 5% of their reference salary (without Lower Earnings Limit offset), at current NI rates. These would also be the additional NI costs if salary sacrifice were "abolished" altogether (i.e. by adding the sacrificed income back to the NI-able earnings). The table also shows the effect of a 2,000 cap relative to the current position. As the table shows, the NI savings (and the extra NI from a cap) are overwhelmingly from the employer. At earnings levels where the main (8%) employee National Insurance rate is almost half of the employer rate (15%), a 5% contribution would either fit within the 2,000 limit or only just exceed it. Where people are paid enough for a 5% contribution to be worth significantly more than 2,000, the employee rate is only 2% and 88% of the extra NI due from the cap is employer NI. For a 100,000 reference salary, the extra employer NI in this example will cost as much as a 0.5% increase in the employer NI rate would. Numbers affected

The Office for National Statistics was recently asked how many employees use salary sacrifice. It replied that, although it collects data on this, it does not process it. It previously estimated that, in 2019, around 30% of private sector employees were covered by pension salary sacrifice. Sacrifices must not reduce salaries below the minimum wage  an increasing consideration as minimum wage rates have risen faster than earnings overall. Limiting NI advantages vs limiting salary sacrificed: effects on use of DB surplus

The 2,000 cap that HMRC tested with employers was described as meaning that: "employers and employees would not need to pay NI on any salary sacrificed up to 2,000 but would need to pay NI on any salary sacrificed above this amount." This implies that it would still be possible to sacrifice higher amounts (rather than having to pay normal employee contributions) and that higher sacrifices would comprise a NIC-free component plus a NIC-able component. An alternative approach would be to cap sacrifices themselves at 2,000 per employee. Similarly, if salary sacrifice were "abolished" altogether that could be achieved either through adding back any sacrificed earnings to NI-able earnings or through a formal ban on the use of sacrifice. Which route the Government chooses could matter for employers who have agreed that DB surplus will be used to pay employer contributions and where this includes contributions originating from salary sacrifice. The Government has argued that releasing some of the surpluses in well-funded schemes can "boost growth". It should therefore want to avoid making it harder for employers to benefit from well-funded DB schemes before the Pension Schemes Bill measures take effect. Details

Either approach would require details to be ironed out: Would it be the first 2,000 of contributions in a tax year that were NI-relieved (even though NI is not calculated annually), or a pro rata amount each pay period?

How would payroll systems adapt to record the split?

If someone who had not been using salary sacrifice starts doing so mid-way through a tax year (for example, after starting a new job) would they be limited to 2,000 or 1,000?

If limiting the amount sacrificed, how would agreements already in place be unwound? (Originally HMRC insisted that any sacrifice was irrevocable, although it has since eased this requirement. However, long-standing salary sacrifice agreements might still include an irrevocability clause.)

Where people have multiple jobs, would the cap apply to each job  and, if not, which employer would be responsible for applying the cap. I.e. would the cap be per job or per person?

Would HMRC be content that a change to the NI treatment of sacrificed contributions constituted a "life event" that could justify amending an existing agreement?

More fundamentally, how would "salary sacrifice" be distinguished from other forms of contract amendment or choice that achieve the same effect? Navigating the change: new recruits and current employees

For employers who pass part of their NI saving to employees, some of their higher costs will be recouped automatically, with less going into employees' pensions as a result. Where this is not the case, employers might seek to hold down pay growth or to amend benefit packages. When employer National Insurance was increased in the October 2024 Budget, the Office for Budget Responsibility assumed that, by 2026/27, more than three-quarters of the cost would be passed on through reduced wage increases and increased prices. The changes, at least as reported, only apply to salary sacrifice agreements and not to employer contributions more generally. Unless there are wider anti-avoidance measures, some employers may consider adopting a more bespoke approach to negotiations at recruitment, allowing prospective hires to choose a reward package that includes less salary and more employer pension contribution in the original contract. This would have National Insurance advantages compared to letting those who want to sacrifice salary above the cap or simply pay higher ordinary employee contributions. Some new hires might be particularly receptive to this if they are likely to favour high pension contributions for other reasons, and when contributions are large, (e.g., for an employee on 125,000 who would sacrifice 15,000, a 2,000 cap could increase the employer NI bill by nearly 2,000). For example: An effective income tax rate of 60% (67.5% in Scotland) applies to earnings between 100,000 and 125,140.

Income above 100,000 triggers the loss of taxpayer-funded childcare

The child benefit taper and universal credit taper also increase marginal rates (though workers on universal credit are much less likely to be looking to sacrifice more than 2,000)

Graduates' student loan repayments are based on NIC-able income  so, if the cap is introduced, they may prefer employer contributions and lower pay to paying employee contributions or sacrificing salary Replacing existing employees' contracts would be less straightforward but might be worthwhile in some instances. It remains to be seen whether and how legislation will prevent this. A tangled web

With less than two weeks until the Chancellor's Budget, there is a lot of detail for HMRC officials to get their heads around and drafting the Finance Bill clauses in time for the proposals to be effective from the beginning of the next tax year will present a particular challenge. Later implementation would present the opportunity for a 'closing down sale' and so anti-forestalling provisions might also be required. All will no doubt be revealed  or not  on 26 November.
An Autauga County jury found 48-year-old Jason Hudson guilty of 84 counts of first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, sex abuse of a child, incest, five counts of production of child pornography  including filming sex acts he committed on a juvenile  and 75 counts of possession of child pornography. (Contributed)

An Alabama man was sentenced to nearly 1,000 years in prison after he made home videos of himself sexually abusing, sodomizing, and raping a child under the age of 12.

Nineteenth Judicial Circuit Presiding Judge Amanda Baxley sentenced 48-year-old Jason Hudson to a total of 965 years behind bars.

The judge ordered the sentences to run consecutively which means he must complete one sentence before he begins serving time on the next conviction.

I am so thankful for real life heroes, said District Attorney CJ Robinson.

The victim in this case is truly a survivor who was extremely brave for coming forward and never hesitating to confront her abuser.

Hudson in October was convicted of 84 counts of first-degree rape, first-degree sodomy, sex abuse of a child, incest, five counts of production of child pornography  including filming sex acts he committed on a juvenile  and 75 counts of possession of child pornography.

Hudsons wife, 37-year-old Farren Jill Hudson, earlier this year pleaded guilty to sodomy, and was sentenced to 30 years in prison.

Robinson said Jason Hudson downloaded tagged images of child pornography on information sharing platforms and the downloading of those images notified the NCMEC (National Center for Missing and Exploited Children).

NCMEC then coordinated with the Autauga County Sheriffs Office to launch an investigation.

Investigators found thousands of obscene images in Jason Hudsons possession, including videos of male and female children as young as under 2 enduring rape, sodomy, sexual molestation, being tortured with sex toys, lashed with whips, urinated on, and burned by open flames while bound with rope.

Farren Jill Hudson (Contributed)

Multiple agencies worked together in the investigation, including the Autauga County Sheriffs Office, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, Butterfly Bridge Childrens Advocacy Center and the district attorneys office.

I wish I could go back in time and prevent her (the victim) from experiencing the abuse, Robinson said.

I also wish the death penalty was available on this case, he said.

I would not hesitate to seek it, to ask the jury to recommend it, to ask the judge to impose it, and attend the execution if it could happen.

This case is a reminder that while evil is real and it is overwhelming at times, we still have a choice, Robinson said. Choose to dwell on things that are right and good.
A man convicted of murder and attempted murder in a 2024 south Alabama incident has received two life sentences.

According to the Mobile District Attorneys Office, a judge issued the sentences to Alfred Johnson for killing Cory Evans and injuring a woman.

Johnson shot both victims in a driveway on Lundy Lane on March 22, 2024.

The jury saw through Alfred Johnsons excuses and held him accountable for a violent and senseless attack. Cory Evans lost his life, and another victim was left gravely injured, said Mobile County District Attorney Keith Blackwood.

This sentence ensures that Johnson will never again have the opportunity to harm another person.

Blackwoods office said Johnsons co-defendant, Sharon Vallare, has a trial set to begin on December 8.
Birmingham employees Carmen Mays and Dot George try out the new podcast studio at North Birmingham Public Library. (Photo by Greg Garrison/AL.com) ggarrison@al.com

The city of Birmingham, in partnership with Apple-backed nonprofit, Ed Farm, opened the federally funded North Star Learning Lab Wednesday at the North Birmingham Public Library, with high-tech tools including 3-D modeling, multi-track audio recording, a green screen video backdrop and a four-person podcast studio.

The Ed Farm will oversee programs designed to equip Birmingham residents with in-demand digital skills, workforce training and creative technology.

This is about much more than technology and skills. Its about unlocking opportunity for all learners with the drive and potential to thrive in our citys fast-growing tech economy, said Waymond Jackson Jr., president of Ed Farm.

The North Star Learning Lab will serve as a model for the new workforce library of the future and equip community members with the tools, skills, and experiences they need to fill or create the jobs of tomorrow.

Built with funding from the U.S. Economic Development Administration, the Technology Suite is a learning laboratory for teaching digital work skills to prepare for high-technology jobs.

The partnership between Ed Farm and the city of Birmingham is another powerful example of how public and private collaboration can bring innovation and opportunity directly into our communities, said Mayor Randall Woodfin. The North Star Learning Lab reflects our commitment to ensuring that North Birmingham residents have access to the tools and technology needed to succeed in a modern economy . 

Besides the city and Ed Farm, education partners including Lawson State Community College, are offering the lab to funnel cutting-edge learning environments and digital workforce development opportunities directly into the citys neighborhoods.

The new space is expected to serve more than 1,600 learners and community members annually, advancing Birminghams commitment to innovation, workforce development and economic growth, city officials said.
A rendering shows a new dormitory to be built at the Dauphin Island Sea Lab. The lab hosts undergraduate and graduate-level researchers as well as thousands of younger students in a year. (Courtesy of DISL) Courtesy of DISL

Leaders and supporters of the Dauphin Island Sea Lab broke ground Tuesday on a new facility they say will make the labs educational programs accessible to more students from all across Alabama and beyond.

The planned new dormitory improves the lodging situation that has been a bottleneck for years. The campus had been built as a U.S. Air Force radar base and became the Sea Labs home in 1972. Many of its facilities date back to that era.

All youve got to do is walk around this campus and realize that this was an early warning base for the Air Force back in the 50s and 60s to know that we needed help, said the labs executive director, John F. Valentine.

The Labs Beagle and Challenger dorms date back to Air Force days. Though old, those dorms have been renovated with modern climate-control and safety equipment. According to information provided by DISL, the Beagle and Challenger dorms are heavily used by our Discovery Hall Program (K-12) who see close to 8,000 students from across Alabamas 67 counties and other states visit during the academic year. Of those, over half spend at least one night in the dormitories.

But another Air Force-vintage building, which housed 12 graduate students, was heavily damaged by Hurricane Sally in 2020 and since then has been used as a storage facility, due to the cost of bringing it up to contemporary residential codes.

That has left DISL leaders struggling to balance the longer-term housing needs of undergraduates and graduate students again those of younger students, such as those attending a multitude of summer camps.

Valentine thanked Ala. Sen. David Sessions and Ala. Rep. Chip Brown for their help in funding the project.

Sessions said the occasion was an opportunity to showcase what we have in this district here at Dauphin Island and to get it up to the standards that we really feel like the entire state deserves. Because this serves the entire state of Alabama and [multiple] states. So, its a regional thing.

Brown said that he and Sessions had previously sponsored legislation to rename the sites public aquarium as the Aquarium of Alabama because it needs to be recognized for what it does for the entire state of Alabama.

A rendering provided by DISL shows a two-story building. The first floor will feature about 15,000 square feet of space, which is expected to accommodate 63 people.

Another $5 million will be required to finish out the second floor, which will provide two-bedroom apartments to house another 36 students. The total cost is expected to be about $14 million.

In addition to relieving on-site housing pressure, particularly for graduate students, the Sea Lab says the new dorm will give DISL avenues for revenues such as hosting scientific meetings and may also accommodate faculty who teach summer sessions, interns and scientists visiting the area for their research.

According to the DISL, this is the first major construction project on the campus in 10 years.

According to information provided by DISL its University Programs awarded more than 1,400 credit hours to students from 14 Alabama colleges and universities. In the 2024-25 academic year, 7,620 students, teachers, and chaperones took part in Discovery Hall programs on the DISL campus, and 4,148 of those were in overnight programs.
After nearly three decades and thousands fed, Etowah Countys CommUnity Thanksgiving Celebration will not be taking place this year.

In a letter to the community, the events board of directors attributed its close to rising food and supply costs.

Over the years CommUnity Thanksgiving has been a true reflection of the spirit of togetherness that makes this community so special, the letter reads.

It has been a time for us to come together-regardless of background or circumstance-to share a meal, a smile and a moment of kindness.

...However, as with many things, times change, it continues.

Rising food and supply costs, along with the financial challenges faced by many, have made it increasingly difficult to sustain this event at the level we have come to expect.

Craig Scott, the events co-chair, told ABC 33/40 the cost of meals jumped by $5,000 this year, pushing the total cost to around $40,000, compared to the typical $35,000 raised.

The board felt that we had lost the Unity in CommUnity, Scott told the outlet.

It had become such a large event that we outgrew our britches.

Last year, CommUnity Thanksgiving provided 10,600 meals, making it the largest community Thanksgiving in the state, according to the letter.

Board members said the decision to cancel it this year does not come easily.

We are deeply grateful for the overwhelming support and generosity that this event has inspired, not only from those who have attended, but also from the volunteers, local businesses, and organizations that have contributed year after year, the letter reads.

It goes on to include a list of nonprofits and other groups that will continue to provide meals to those in need throughout the holiday season.

We encourage you to keep the spirit of CommUnity Thanksgiving alive by finding ways to come together, show kindness, and share the blessings we all have with one another, the letter reads.

While we may no longer host this specific event, we remain committed to supporting and serving our community, and we are grateful for every moment shared.

Scott hinted at the events possible return next year under Pastor Willie Simmons of New Liberty Tabernacle in an interview with ABC 33/40.

Next year, Pastor Simmons and I know he will move forward with this idea, CommUnity Thanksgiving will be back but in a different format, like I mentioned East, West, North and South, it will be around the community instead of one site, he said.
U.S. Army Soldiers from 1st Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 38th Air Defense Artillery Brigade emplace a Patriot radar system under night conditions, July 19, 2025. The Janus Program, the Armys next-generation nuclear power program, aims to deliver secure, resilient, and reliable energy to support national defense installations and critical missions. US Army

Huntsvilles Redstone Arsenal is one of nine installations on a list of possible sites for a new nuclear program by the U.S. Army.

Redstone, Fort Benning, Ga.; Fort Bragg, NC; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Drum, NY; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Wainwright, Alaska; Holston Army Ammunition Plant in Kingsport, Tennessee; and Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington could receive nuclear microreactor power generators by 2030, the service announced today.

The small reactors are part of the Armys Janus Program designed to deliver secure, resilient, and reliable energy to support national defense installations and critical missions, the Army said in a statement.

These early site selections align with the Department of Wars goal of accelerating the pace of deploying on-site nuclear generation at our installations, said Jordan Gillis, Assistant Secretary of the Army for Installations, Energy and Environment. Through the use of the Armys unique nuclear regulatory authorities, we are deploying a resilient, secure, and reliable energy supply for critical defense operations and in support of the most lethal land-based fighting force in the world.

According to Stripes.com, microreactors are generally 100 to 1,000 times smaller than a conventional nuclear reactor and can be small enough to be transported via tractor trailer. The reactors can produce up to 50 megawatts of power and can function independently of the traditional electric grid, the site said.

The nine sites were identified through an analysis and on-site assessments that included mission-critical installations, energy requirements, power infrastructure, and technical considerations.

The final number and location of the microreactors will be determined during the acquisition process, the Army said, meaning its not a guarantee Redstone will be on the final list. However, the Army is committed to maximizing the number of sites based on technical feasibility, site suitability and available resources, the Army said.

A timeline for the decision has not been announced other than what the Army described as a staged rollout.

These projects will be self-contained and protected appropriately. All projects will comply with the applicable federal, state, and local regulations, and leverage the safety features inherent in next-generation reactor designs. The Army does not anticipate any significant impact to installation land use, the service said.
The man accused of fatally shooting actor Jonathan Joss, known for his roles on King of the Hill and Parks and Recreation, has been officially charged in the killing.

A grand jury this week indicted Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez on a charge of first-degree murder for allegedly killing Joss, who was his next door neighbor, according to court records cited by People. He was subsequently released on $200,000 bond.

Joss was shot and killed on June 1, while he was visiting the site of his former home just south of San Antonio. When authorities responded to the gunfire around 7 p.m., they discovered Joss lying near the roadway and attempted life-saving measures, police said. Joss was ultimately pronounced dead on the scene. He was 57 years old.

Witnesses later told investigators Joss was engaged in an argument with his Alvarez prior to the gunfire. After the shooting, Alvarez fled the scene in a vehicle, but allegedly confessed when he was approached by the arresting officers.

Tristan Kern de Gonzales, Joss husband, claimed the actor had been a victim of a hate crime. He told police he witnessed the shooting, which came after years of threats due to Joss sexuality.

My husband Jonathan Joss and I were involved in a shooting while checking the mail at the site of our former home, Gonzales said in a statement on Joss Facebook page. That home was burned down after over two years of threats from people in the area who repeatedly told us they would set it on fire. We reported these threats to law enforcement multiple times and nothing was done.

The San Antonio Police Department has since said it has uncovered no evidence to suggest the killing was a hate crime.

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2025 New York Daily News. Visit at nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
A man was killed early this morning when he was hit by a vehicle while walking on a Birmingham interstate.

The crash happened at 12:25 a.m. Wednesday on Interstate 20 westbound between Oporto Madrid Boulevard and First Avenue South, according to the Jefferson County Coroners Office.

Chief Deputy Coroner Bill Yates said the man was walking in the travel lanes when he was hit. The driver stopped and called 911.

The victim was pronounced dead on the scene at 12:32 a.m.

His identity is being withheld pending notification of his family, but Yates said he was a 32-year-old Black male.

Birmingham police are investigating.
With no public discussion or a committee meeting, theres just one name on the agenda as Birminghams regional water board meets Thursday to hire a CEO.

Jeffrey Thompson, a former assistant general manager at the utility, was rumored for weeks as the preferred candidate while officials remained mum. Thompsons hiring is the only item on the agenda for the special called meeting.

Thompson would earn between $650,000 and $750,000 in the role.

Secrecy in the process was a source of conflict within the board, where just three of the seven members served on the search committee. Multiple requests by AL.com for details, including a list of candidates, were ignored by the utility.

Board chairman Tommy Hudson in July formed a three-member search committee, naming himself, Phillip Wiedmeyer, and state Rep. David Standridge to vet candidates for the newly created CEO position.

The process and the secrecy surrounding the CEO search has spawned accusations of political favoritism and exclusion.

Neither of the two members from Birmingham were asked to serve on the committee, which has never published a meeting notice of its gatherings or deliberations.

Jeffrey Thompson Contributed

Just Monday, board member Jarvis Patton of Birmingham asked Hudson about the search process but was given no details.

Whats the rush now to rush this particular individual? Patton said.

Patton said the process defied the promises of transparency made when the Central Alabama Water board took over, a total board replacement and name change orchestrated by state legislators who wrested control from the old Birmingham Water Works Board.

As a result of the lack of transparency, Patton said, problems will arise in the CEO selection.

Its going to cause nothing but turmoil and confusion to bring him back into the system, he said.

Adding to the insult, Patton said, he has a family emergency and has asked that the snap meeting be rescheduled, but hes heard nothing back from the chairman.

Thompson previously worked for the utility and served as assistant general manager of operations and technical operations from late 2019 till May 2023.

He then went to DC Water as the authoritys new chief operating officer and executive vice president, where he served from May 2023 to August 2025.

Sources told AL.com Thompson had long been tapped for the utilitys top job, despite no public disclosure of his candidacy or any others. The utility has hired Russell Reynolds Associates of Chicago to lead the process.

Thompson confirmed to AL.com earlier this month that he was interviewed for the CEO role.

Im certainly interested in any opportunities that might come my way, he said at the time. I certainly have familiarity with CAWs operations, but I have not been named or voted on or anything. That is really at the discretion of the board what they chose to do.

Adding to the controversy, Tony Petelos, a former Jefferson County manager with decades of state and local leadership experience, was snubbed without an interview or a conversation from the firm.

Petelos told AL.com that he had heard that board leaders had already had a candidate in mind early in the process.

Adding to questions surrounding Thompson, a separation agreement between Thompson and the former Birmingham Water Works explicitly states that he would not return to the agency.

Thompson acknowledges and understands that he is releasing all legal rights and claims... and shall not be eligible for re-employment, the document reads.

The document was signed by Thompson in April 2023.

The proposal budget for Central Alabama Water includes a $650,000 salary for the CEO, while the search firm suggested up to $750,000.

By comparison, the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power, the countrys largest publicly-owned water and power utility, pays its CEO and chief engineer $750,000.

The Los Angeles utility serves nearly 4 million people, more than five times the size of Central Alabama Water. Birminghams regional utility is exclusively a water service and serves about 770,000 customers in Jefferson, Shelby, St. Clair, Blount and Walker counties.

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin assailed the process and compared it to a backroom political deal.

This is done under the cloak of darkness and secrecy, Woodfin told AL.com earlier this month. Its politically driven  the opposite of why they claimed to be forming this organization. Its very untrustworthy.

Paul DeMarco a former state legislator and longtime critic of the former Birmingham Water Works Board, said the new leadership so far has done as it has promised on major issues, including pausing rate increases and examining efficiency.

DeMarco also urged them to continue in that theme by being open in all their operation.

We do want a transparent process and we want the board to operate better than the old board operated, DeMarco said. We want them to be transparent because the old board was not.
Calhoun Community College is ready to celebrate an enrollment milestone.

The two-year North Alabama school announced it now has more than 10,000 students enrolled, the first time its passed that mark in more than a decade. Leaders of the states largest community college plan on having a celebration to mark the occasion.

This 10,000-student milestone reflects more than numbers, Kassie Mathis, Vice President of Student Services, said. It shows how connected students feel to Calhoun. They choose to be here because of a supportive community, programs that challenge them, and services that celebrate their accomplishments. With new facilities and continued growth, Calhoun is ready for the next chapter.

READ MORE: Calhoun Community College investing $17 million on project designed to bring everyone together

College leaders say strategic initiatives are driving growth. That includes the new $16.7 million, two-story, 29,800-square-foot Student Union building, the Advanced Technology Center and Alabama Center for the Arts.

Calhoun has also launched programs like the STEAM Imagination Center, Respiratory Therapy Lab and a Co-op program for the Systems Engineering Technology.

Calhoun offers more than 150 local programs. The college reports its graduates earn $11,300 more per year on average than people with just a high school diploma.

Our students want an education that leads to real-world opportunities, which is why our faculty work closely with industry partners to ensure programs meet workforce needs, and our growing enrollment reflects that, Wes Rakestraw, Vice President of Academic Affairs, said. Strong dual enrollment partnerships are a key factor in our success, providing high school students access to college credit and affordable pathways to well-paying careers.

The college-wide celebration will be Thursday, Nov. 20, at 1 p.m. in the Advanced Technology Center on the Decatur campus.
The Peachtree Group announced the opening of a Tru by Hilton hotel in Huntsville on Wednesday.

The 98-room hotel is at 7206 Cabela Drive NW. According to the Peachtree Group, the hotel has a modern, efficient design with open social spaces, complimentary breakfast, a 24/7 market, a fitness center and lounge areas that reflect the Tru by Hilton brands focus on comfort and connectivity.

The Hilton website also lists Tru by Hilton hotels as pet friendly. Rooms feature mobile desks, plenty of spaces to charge devices and large, bright bathrooms.

The Tru by Hilton hotel is the sixth property the firm completed and opened this year. Peachtrees hospitality management division will operate the hotel. The Tru by Hilton is the companys only hotel in Huntsville but operates three other hotels in Alabama.

Our partnership with Hilton continues to grow stronger with each project, said Mitul Patel, managing principal at Peachtree. Hilton has been a trusted brand partner for many years, and we are proud to continue developing high quality hotels together in markets that benefit from strong demand and economic growth.

Peachtree said the hotel is strategically located near Boeing, NASAs Marshall Space Flight Center, the Federal Bureau of Investigations Huntsville campus and other parts of Redstone Arsenal, as well as contractors Lockheed Martin and Northrop Grumman. The hotel was constructed in an Opportunity Zone.

The opening of Tru by Hilton Huntsville underscores our commitment to developing institutional-quality properties in markets with enduring demand generators, said Will Woodworth, senior vice president, investments at Peachtree. Huntsvilles leadership in aerospace, defense and advanced manufacturing makes it an exceptional fit for Hiltons Tru brand and Peachtrees long-term investment strategy.

Opportunity Zones were created as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which designated low-income census tracts as QOZs. Peachtree has supported the program since its inception, strategically allocating capital to spur economic development and advance its goal of revitalizing underserved communities, the company said.
A Moffat & Nichol rendering of the Upper Mobile Bay Wetland project illustrates the tracts of new wetlands that would be created using dredge spoil. (Courtesy of the Alabama Port Authority) Courtesy of the Alabama Port Authority

The Alabama Port Authority said Wednesday that a plan to create hundreds of acres of wetlands in a portion of upper Mobile Bay has taken two big steps forward.

The Upper Mobile Bay Wetlands project has been in the works for years, with backers saying it will provide a beneficial use for dredge spoil by creating up to 1,200 acres of wetlands that would serve as habitat and a buffer against erosion.

The first new development is that the Gulf Coast Ecosystem Restoration Council has released a draft 2026 list of projects due to receive money from the Deepwater Horizon oil spill disaster, under a process defined by the federal RESTORE Act. The draft Funded Priorities List includes a $24 million allocation for the wetlands project.

According to a summary released by the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (ADCNR), the $24 million will allow the state to construct a 100-acre wetland restoration cell in Upper Mobile Bay as the first phase of work that will result in 1,200 acres of tidal wetlands. The 100-acre site will feature a semi-submerged containment area and placement of dredge material.

A rendering of the project site shows four large tracts on the western side of the upper bay south of the Causeway, south and slightly east of the battleship USS Alabama. Filling in all four could take up to 20 years. More information on the project can be found at uppermobaywetlands.com.

Starting Thursday, Nov. 20, the public will be able to comment on the draft priorities list. Other projects on it include $38 million for beach and dune restoration on the west end of Dauphin Island; $9.5 million for a coastal water quality program; $11.95 million for the Alabama portion of a project to restore Grand Batture Island, a project shared with Mississippi; and several smaller allocations aimed at keeping trash and sediment out of waterways and providing conservation training.

I am very excited to share the projects included in the 2026 FPL, and I look forward to the public feedback, Commissioner Chris Blankenship said in an ADCNR announcement. There was a great deal of collaboration between the five states and six federal agencies to agree on this slate of projects. I am thankful for the good work of all the members of the RESTORE Council and Council staff during this long but productive process.

The second development affecting the upper bay wetlands work is that the Port Authority has signed its U.S. Army Corps of Engineers permit to begin construction.

Wetland restoration in Mobile Bay is vital to our coastal communities, and I am proud to advocate for RESTORE Act funding for this project, said Blankenship, quoted in a Port Authority announcement. I commend the Port Authority and the Corps for their vision and persistence in securing this permit, which ensures dredged material will be used in the most beneficial way possible.

According to the Port Authority, the permit establishes the only dedicated beneficial use site in Mobile Bay for material dredged from the Mobile Ship Channel during maintenance. Dispersal of dredge spoil from the channel has been controversial, with some accusing the Corps of mud-dumping that is harmful to the bays ecology.

William Strickland, executive director of Mobile Baykeeper, said the plan is a positive development, but not a whole answer to what Baykeeper sees as a big problem.

Its clear the people of coastal Alabama want maintenance dredge material used for restoration purposes instead of being dumped into the open waters of Mobile Bay, said Strickland. While we have not been included in the planning process for this project, our understanding is that the project would use, at most, a fraction of the total annual maintenance dredge material to build islands that have the potential to become nursery habitat for fish, shrimp and other species.

We look forward to working with the Port to find better ways to use all of the maintenance dredge material and fulfill the mandate of the community who rely on healthy waters for their way of life, said Strickland.

Backers celebrated the forward motion.

Beneficial use is not just the right thing to do  its a strategic approach that allows us to grow responsibly while protecting the natural assets that make Alabama competitive, said Doug Otto, Director & CEO of the Alabama Port Authority. We are especially grateful to Commissioner Blankenship for his leadership in advocating for RESTORE dollars. Having both the funding commitment and the USACE permit in hand is the catalyst we need to move forward with this project and to pave the way for additional beneficial use opportunities across Mobile Bay.

The process has been supported by several members of Alabamas congressional delegation, including senators Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville and U.S. Reps. Barry Moore and Shomari Figures.

Since I took office, I have worked diligently with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure sediment is responsibly disposed of in the Mobile Bay, including securing a provision in the Water Resources Development Act of 2024 to direct the Corps to use dredged material for beneficial use, said Britt, quoted in the Port Authoritys announcement. Im thrilled to see these developments for the Upper Mobile Bay Wetlands Project, and I remain committed to advocating for beneficial use of dredged material in the Mobile harbor and ship channel. By working together at the state and federal levels, we will continue to strengthen Mobile Bays natural resources and reinforce the Port of Mobile as an economic engine for our state and nation.

The comment period on the draft funding list runs from Nov. 20 to Jan. 2. The process includes two online seminars on Nov. 20; for full information, visit www.restorethegulf.gov.

Additionally, ADCNR will host a public meeting at the Spanish Fort Community Center on Dec. 17. At the 5:30 meeting, Blankenship and Restoration Council staff will present an overview of the draft 2026 FPL. Blankenship also will share information on other Deepwater Horizon oil spill and GOMESA funded projects in Coastal Alabama.
Sen. Tommy Tuberville, R-Ala., is seen during votes in the U.S. Capitol on Thursday, October 23, 2025. (Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Images) CQ-Roll Call, Inc via Getty Imag

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville said Tuesday he opposes the provision enabling him and seven other Republican senators to sue the federal government over their phone records being seized in the Jan. 6 investigation.

Tubervilles comments Tuesday night on Newsmax came a week after Alabamas senior senator said he would sue the living hell out of Biden administration officials if former special counsel Jack Smith isnt arrested and Judge James Boasberg isnt impeached for their roles in the investigation.

The provision, tucked into a spending bill that helped avert the longest federal shutdown in history, allows Tuberville and the other senators to sue the federal government for $500,000 apiece on each claim that they were not notified that their records were accessed.

Tuberville told Newsmaxs National Report that it would be wrong for taxpayers to be footing the bill for the lawsuits.

I dont think anybody needs to go after the American taxpayer here. They didnt do anything, Tuberville said. This is making American taxpayers pay money.

The senator said the phone companies, not taxpayers, should be held liable for the incidents, and that the affected senators should sue in their capacities as private citizens.

If you want to go after somebody, you go after the telephone companies that did this to you as an individual, Tuberville said. Not as a senator, not as a congressman, but as a private citizen.

While Tuberville characterized the situation as then-President Joe Biden tapping his phone, the records enabled investigators to see basic information about the date and time of the calls but not the content of the communications.

I would have always thought it would have been North Korea or China or Russia, not our own government and Joe Biden was tapping the phones through the FBI of senators in this country, Tuberville told Steve Bannon on his WarRoom podcast last month.

Thats a damn shame.
U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins participates in a mission with the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, in a photo posted on his congressional website on Aug. 21, 2018. (Photo by Petty Officer 3rd Class Johanna Strickland, U.S. Coast Guard) Petty Officer 3rd Class Johanna

Both Democrats and Republicans alike readied for a unanimous House vote Tuesday to pass a bill to force the release of the case files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. But in the end, one lawmaker stood alone in opposition: Republican Rep. Clay Higgins.

Higgins, who is in his fifth term representing a congressional district in southwest Louisiana, explained in a lengthy statement that he was a principled NO on this bill from the beginning.

He raised some of the same objections that House Speaker Mike Johnson, another Louisiana Republican, had with the bill, yet even Johnson said Tuesday he would vote for it because, None of us want to go on record and in any way be accused of not being for maximum transparency.

For Higgins, a fervent Trump supporter and a member of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, that wasnt a problem.

He refused to give in to the building pressure, both within the Republican base and from survivors of Epsteins abuse, to pass the bill, even as both President Donald Trump and Johnson relented in their opposition to the legislation. He said that his concern with the bill was that it reveals and injures thousands of innocent people  witnesses, people who provided alibis, family members, etc."

If enacted in its current form, this type of broad reveal of criminal investigative files, released to a rabid media, will absolutely result in innocent people being hurt, he added.

Higgins suggested he would be open to voting for the bill if the Senate amended it to protect the privacy of those who are named but not criminally implicated. But just hours later, the Senate passed the bill through unanimous consent, leaving Higgins the only lawmaker in Congress on record against the legislation.

Yet Higgins is also no stranger to controversy. As a former law enforcement officer, he faced a series of allegations of misconduct and became politically involved after achieving viral fame by creating brash Crime Stoppers videos. It earned him the nickname by media outlets as Cajun John Wayne, and hes followed up the moniker by challenging people on social media to fights.

In 2020, a social media post by the congressman -- promising the use of force against armed protesters -- was removed by Facebook for violating the companys violence and incitement policies.

In Congress, he chairs the subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee that initiated a subpoena of the Department of Justice for the Epstein case files. But even when Democrats on the subcommittee convinced several Republicans to vote with them to issue the subpoena, Higgins was one of the few who stood opposed. He also pressed to have the subcommittee subpoena former President Bill Clinton.

Ive never handled a subpoena like this. This is some fascinating stuff, Higgins said at the time. On Tuesday, he pointed to the oversight panels work to investigate the governments handling of the Epstein, saying that it was being done in a manner that provides all due protections for innocent Americans.

Last year, Higgins also faced an attempt by Democrats to censure him for racist comments he had made about Haitian immigrants after Trumps own comments about the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio.

In a social media post, Higgins called Haitians wild. Eating pets, vudu, nastiest country in the western hemisphere, cults, slapstick gangsters.

But after members of the Congressional Black Caucus, a group of Democratic lawmakers, confronted him about the post, Higgins deleted it and partially walked back the comments, saying they were intended for gang members.

At the time, Johnson defended Higgins, calling him a very frank and outspoken person.

Hes also a very principled man, Johnson added.
Radius Residential Care Limited (NZX: RAD ) today announced its half year results for the six months ended 30 September 2025.

Highlights:

 Net Profit After Tax was $6.3m, up +221% on the previous comparative period (pcp).

 Earnings per Share was 2.2cps, up +1.5cps on the pcp.

 Available Funds from Operations* (AFFO), was $7.2m, up +99% on the pcp.

 Underlying EBITDA of $14.9m**, up +41% on the pcp.

 Interim cash dividend of 1.0 cent per share (fully imputed), up +54% on the previous interim dividend of 0.65 cents per share.

 Operating Cashflow of $13.3m, up $6.7m on the pcp.

 Occupancy was 95.0% for the period, up 2.7 percentage points on the pcp.

 Annualised EBITDAR per bed was $29.9k*** for the 12-month period ended 30 September 2025, up +7% on the $27.9k reported for FY25.

 Financing costs decreased by $0.7m, or -21%, on the pcp.

People

Radius Cares exceptional people have continued to deliver exceptional care to our growing number of residents. Radius Care has once again delivered industry-leading results and strong earnings growth. Id like to give immense thanks to every member of our team and welcome the new team and residents at St Allisa to the Radius Care community said Andrew Peskett, Radius Cares CEO.

Certification audit results achieved during the first half of this financial year remained strong. Currently, 16 of our 24 care homes hold the maximum four-year certification period.

Business Performance

Radius Cares business has delivered another period of strong growth.

Occupancy levels were maintained at high levels, averaging 95.0% for the half year. Continued improvements in bed mix, accommodation supplement growth, control of operating costs and the contribution of Cibus Catering assisted the strong first half year performance.

Maintaining the quality of our operating and financial performance allows Radius Care to accelerate our growth plans. St Allisa, a 109-bed care home acquired in May 2025 is now fully integrated and will contribute to second half earnings, said Mr Brien Cree, Radius Cares Executive Chair.

Financial Performance

Profit Before Tax and Net Profit After Tax for the half year included the benefit of lower bank interest costs of $2.6m, a decrease of $0.7m on the pcp. Profit Before Tax increased to $8.5m (up +209% on the pcp) and Net Profit After Tax increased to $6.3m (up +221% on the pcp).

Underlying EBITDA was $14.9m, +41% up on the pcp. EBITDAR per bed was $29.9k for the 12-month period ended 30 September 2025 (an increase of +7% on the $27.9k reported for FY25). These results were driven by stronger operating metrics across the business, including occupancy and improved bed mix.

Other financial metrics all demonstrated growth on the pcp. Revenue increased 17% on the prior period to $100.2m. Operating Cashflow was $13.3m (up +102% on the pcp). Available Funds from Operations (AFFO) was $7.2m.

Dividend and Capital Management

A cash interim dividend of one cent per share has been declared for the half year, a +54% increase on the previous years interim dividend. The dividend will carry full imputation credits, resulting in a gross dividend of 1.39 cents per share. The dividend will be paid on 18 December 2025, with a record date of 4 December 2025.

Record operating cashflow delivered a strengthened balance sheet and progress against the companys capital management framework targets. Net Bank Debt reduced to $63.7m and net bank debt leverage was 2.3x, below the groups medium-term target of 2.5x. The group now has significant debt headroom and long dated debt facilities, providing funding certainty for development priorities, including the settlement of Belfast land and the expansion of two existing villages.

Accelerating execution of our capital-light growth strategy

Radius Care was recently granted approval in principle by the Westland District Council to develop an 80-bed care home and a 55-villa retirement village in Hokitika, with broad support from the local community.

Fifteen additional opportunities to develop new-build care homes around the country are now being actively pursued, with strong support from external property investors.

Brownfield development adding value to existing retirement villages will commence shortly, with 12 additional villas to be constructed at Matamata and Clare House (Invercargill).

The acquisition of St Allisa, a 109-bed care home in Christchurch, completed on 30 May, has been a successful example of capital light growth. With a net investment of $1.1m following the sale and leaseback of the land and buildings, St Allisa is fully integrated into Radius Cares operating model and is delivering positive EBITDA. Radius will pursue additional care home acquisition opportunities when they arise.

Radius Cares expansion into Home Care services also requires minimal capital. An increasing number of ACC-funded clients are being supported with hospital-level rehabilitation services nationwide. This move aligns with the Governments strategies and public demand, as New Zealand's aging population increasingly prefers to remain at home with support. The initiative helps ease hospital congestion and is expanding Radius Care's market reach.

RadPro

RadPro is Radius Cares operating model, representing the proprietary combination of culture, leadership, processes, systems and technology enabling high-quality and high-acuity resident-centred care to be delivered efficiently, at scale.

Investment in the systems supporting RadPro is expected to accelerate during the next two years and will leverage rapidly advancing technology and AI-enabled tools.

Outlook

Occupancy has remained above 95% during October and November. Radius Care expects 2H26 trading to be broadly consistent with the first half of the 2026 financial year.

*Available Funds From Operations (AFFO) is a non-GAAP (unaudited) financial measure. A reconciliation is included within the Investor Presentation.

**Underlying EBITDA is a non-GAAP (unaudited) financial measure. A reconciliation is included within the Investor Presentation.

***Earnings before interest, tax, depreciation, amortisation and rent.

ENDS

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A white Christmas is something Alabama is not familiar with. The map above from NOAA shows the probability of there being at least 1 inch of snow on the ground on Dec. 25 based on data collected from 1991 through 2020. NOAA

A white Christmas is not something Alabama will likely see in 2025, but will rain and storms get in Santas way?

The Old Farmers Almanac has a forecast for you for Christmas week 2025.

The Old Farmers Almanac (not to be confused with the Farmers Almanac, which recently announced it would be ceasing publication), has a forecast for nationwide travel around Christmas, which will fall on a Thursday in 2025.

And as you would expect, its a mixed bag.

The Old Farmers Almanac says it creates its forecasts using a secret formula from its founder, Robert B. Thomas.

According to the Almanac, Thomas thought sunspots had an impact on Earths weather, and those continue to play a role in Almanac forecasts. The Almanac added that modern forecasters have refined and enhanced Thomass formula with state-of-the-art technology and modern science.

According to the Almanac modern forecasters rely on three things: solar patterns, climatology and meteorology.

The Almanacs Christmas week forecast covers the entire U.S. and Canada too. The Almanac said the weather leading up to Dec. 25 will bring snow to the Northeast, Upper Midwest, Lower Lakes, eastern Ohio Valley and Alaska.

So what does the forecast say about Christmas week travel in Alabama?

The Almanac divides the nation into sections, and Alabama falls in the Deep South category along with Mississippi, Tennessee, Louisiana and Arkansas.

The forecast calls for mild weather at the beginning of Christmas week that then turns colder. There will be sun at the first part of the week, followed by showers.

The Almanac added that early-week travel is ideal, while those waiting later will have to deal with wet roads.

About its forecast, the Almanac noted While not a day-by-day forecast, these regional trends are ideal for holiday travelers, hosts, and planners preparing for one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

What about NOAA weather forecasts for Christmas?

The National Weather Service only issues forecasts that go out seven days, so it will be a while before forecasters issue Christmas outlooks.

NOAAs Climate Prediction Center issues longer-range outlooks, but none of those focus specifically on the week of Christmas.

The three-month outlook, for November through January, suggests Alabama will have a good probability of warmer-than-average weather and lower-than-average precipitation over that timeframe.

Heres the temperature outlook:

Most of Alabama has a 40-50 percent chance for above-average temperatures through January. CPC

Heres the precipitation outlook. It shows that the southern part of Alabama will have a 40-50 percent probability of below-average precipitation, with lower odds farther north:

Most of Alabama will have increased odds of below-average precipitation through January. CPC

See the Old Farmers Almanac Christmas week weather outlook here.
For decades, U.S. policy toward Lebanon has followed the same doomed cycle: polite visits, warm meetings, generous aid packages, and long declarations about reform, sovereignty, and transparency. In return, Washington receives empty promises, beautifully worded communiques, and a Lebanese political class that smiles for the camerabefore returning to the same corruption, paralysis, and Hezbollah-driven submission that brought the country to collapse. Lebanon doesnt need more American compliments; it needs American consequences. And yet, here we are again.

X screen grab. Public domain from a government actor.

This months high-profile visit by a U.S. delegation was an almost perfect illustration of why this cycle keeps failing. On November 9, a group led by Deputy Assistant to the President Dr. Sebastian Gorka, Under Secretary John Hurley, and a small team arrived in Beirut, meeting with Lebanese officials and presenting themselves as agents of a new era of cooperation.

On paper, the delegation came to listen, engage, and encourage progress. In reality, it added to a long list of visits that Lebanese leaders routinely exploit to buy themselves time while doing nothing. The delegation spoke about stopping the flow of money from Iran to Hezbollah, stabilizing institutions, and preparing Lebanon to participate in President Trumps broader Middle East vision. These are admirable goals, but theyre meant for a functioning state, which America seems incapable of recognizing does not describe Lebanon.

Thus, Dr. Sebastian Gorka posted a celebratory message after meeting Joseph Aoun, Lebanons president:

President #JosephAoun is the Christian leader of the multi-confessional state of Lebanon.



I was truly honored to meet him again tonight with @UnderSecTFI John Hurley, after 17 years when he was simply Colonel Aoun, and my student at @NDU_EDU.



Youve come a long way Joseph! pic.twitter.com/oT5FhEHbcJ  Sebastian Gorka DrG (@SebGorka) November 9, 2025

To anyone familiar with Lebanons dynamics, Gorkas message is breathtakingly naive. Joseph Aoun does not control the Lebanese state. He does not command the borders. He does not control weapons, ports, security decisions, or strategic posture. He cannot demobilize a single Hezbollah fighter, nor can he block a single Hezbollah convoy.

To portray him as a man positioned to realize Middle East peace is a fantasy because the office he occupies has no real power in a country completely captured by Hezbollah. Gorkas language reflects a broader American delusion: the belief that if you compliment Lebanese officials enough, if you treat them like sovereign leaders, they will magically start behaving like sovereign leaders. Nothing in Lebanons past 30 years supports that idea.

Under Secretary John Hurley contributed his own hopeful message after the meetings: We discussed ways in which we can partner together to stop the flow of money from Iran to Hezbollah and create a safer and more prosperous Lebanon.

Againnoble intentions. Againdisconnected from reality. How does one partner with a government that does not control its own state? Lebanons presidency, premiership, parliament, ministries, security agencies, and financial institutions operate under the shadow ofand with permission fromHezbollah. Iranian money does not enter Lebanon through state institutions; it enters through Hezbollahs parallel economy, intelligence networks, and smuggling routes that no Lebanese official can touch. The idea that the Lebanese president can work with Washington to halt Iranian funding is not merely unrealisticit is structurally impossible.

When President Trump said that America had been the worlds sucker for decades, he could have been describing Washingtons relationship with Lebanon. For years, Washington poured billions into a system that never implemented a single structural reform, never confronted Hezbollah, never protected U.S. interests, never took accountability for corruption, never delivered sovereignty, never delivered peace.

Instead, the U.S. funded institutions that Hezbollah simultaneously used as cover to legitimize its parallel state. Lebanon became the geopolitical version of a broken slot machineAmerica keeps inserting quarters, hoping for a payout, while the casino owners (Hezbollah and the ruling class) laugh in the back room.

Therefore, its ironic that, under Trump, America is making the same mistakes, with policymakers still insisting on acting as if Lebanon is a fragile democracy struggling to reform itself. This naivete isnt harmless optimism; its dangerous, for it lets Hezbollah off the hook. It signals to the Lebanese political class that the Americans are still ready to be flattered and fooled.

To date, only Morgan Ortagus has taken Lebanon to task. She actually produced real fear, real pressure, and real movement in Lebanon. However, shes been replaced by the softer, more optimisticand, from the Lebanese perspectivemore easily manipulated Tom Barrack.

If the U.S. wants results, it must invest in what worksnot what flatters. And what works is pressure, not praise. Instead, were entering a predictable cycle that has always seen the U.S. stamp its feet and then yield: U.S. expresses frustration

1. Lebanon promises reforms

2. Hezbollah continues expanding

3. U.S. provides aid to strengthen institutions

4. Nothing changes

5. Repeat

This cycle is not diplomacy. It is enablement. So, again, why is Trump following the same pattern?

Lebanon today is bankrupt, lawless, captured by Hezbollah, unable to control its borders, unable to restrain escalation, a model example of state failure. Yet its officials still speak as if they are equal players, as if they can negotiate terms, as if they can dictate conditions to Washington or Tel Aviv. This arrogance is not strengthit is delusion enabled by years of American softness. If war erupts tomorrow, they will again beg the U.S. to save them. And once again, they will expect Washington to be the sucker who rushes in.

What would create change is to tell Lebanons leaders that they must do what is required, or face unilateral consequences when things with Israel spiral out of control (as they will now that Hezbollah is rearming). If they refuse to act, the U.S. should make one thing absolutely clear: they will be on their own.

Lebanon doesnt need visitors who talk about friendship and potential. It needs a United States that finally acts like President Trump said it shoulda country that refuses to be manipulated, refuses to play along, and refuses to fund failure. Until the U.S. stops flattering a system controlled by Hezbollah, every trip, every meeting, every handshake, every optimistic tweet will simply confirm one thing: America still hasnt learned. And Lebanon is still making a fool of us.
New Yorkers had become accustomed to the campaign Mamdani: youthful, energetic, always smiling. Campaign Mamdani was skillful at deflecting tough questions such as whether or not he condemned Hamas, using the occasion to thank the speaker for permitting him to talk about his affordability agenda. He expertly aligned himself with hostage families, and even Martin Luther King. Campaign Mamdani pumped up his campaign rallies with joyful chants of free and the crowd roared back : Free Buses, Free Childcare, Freeze rents, with Bernie Sanders looking on with satisfaction and AOC jumping for joy.

But that was then. The post-campaign Mamdani at his victory rally was a different Mamdani: at times loud, belligerent, and defiant. An American citizen only since 2018, he brazenly challenged a President whose business acumen and political success are recognized worldwide: Donald Trump, since I know you're watching, I have four words for you, turn the volume up.

Despite coming from a well-to-do background with minimal private-sector work experience, his post-victory speech emphasized his role as protector of working people: Fingers bruised from lifting boxes on the warehouse floor, palms callused from delivery bike handlebars, knuckles scarred with kitchen burns. He explicitly embraced his dual identity, not as an American and a Ugandan, but rather as a Muslim and a democratic socialist.

Campaign Events and Religious Symbolism

While pre-election polls and his primary victory suggested that Gen Z voters were his core supporters, post-election it appeared that New Yorks Muslim base of one million sealed the deal.

During the campaign Mamdani, with 340 mosques in New York to choose from, chose to be photographed embracing Siraj Wahhaj, leader of the Masjid at-Taqwa in Bedford-Stuyvesant -- Wahhaj having been named an unindicted co-conspirator in the 1993 World Trade Center bombing case. To be sure, other mayoral candidates had met the Imam at formal events but when told of his prior association with a terror attack, they recoiled -- Michael Bloomberg and Bill de Blasio among them. And while there is no evidence that Mamdani personally supports sharia law, his association with figures who do, such as Imam Wahhaj, raises serious questions about the ideological implications of these alliances.

After Mamdanis victory, a large candlelight parade in Times Square led to prayer in the street. Some New Yorkers welcomed the display of open religiosity; others drew parallels to public religious processions in Europe and expressed concern over the cultural implications of mass displays of faith in public.

The British have witnessed multiple similar religious displays at iconic London locations like Whitehall or Tower Bridge. They are aware of the implications, namely cultural and moral supremacism over the host population. The French, with similar experiences, have taken a firmer stand to defend their core value of secularism. Hence street prayers are banned or restricted to designated outdoor sites since 2011, as are dawah or outreach.

Ideological Alignment: Socialist, Islamist -- or Both?

While Mamdani declared himself a democratic socialist, his past activism suggests a broader picture. As a student at Bowdoin College (20102014), he reportedly founded a chapter of Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP). This action is not inconsequential. Pro Palestine political advocacy on U.S. campuses, like Mamdanis Bowdoin College in Maine, can be traced back to American Muslims for Palestine (AMP). Its founder, Hatem Bazian, co-founded Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP).

Only later, in 2017, did Mamdani join the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA), a year prior to obtaining citizenship. It is widely acknowledged that the DSA differs from mainstream European social-democratic parties; critics argue it adopts more radical systemic critiques (against both capitalism and nationalism for example) which suggest Marxism.

Nevertheless, Mamdanis publicly acknowledged Muslim identity and engagement with Muslim-majority communities add layers of cultural and religious identity to his political persona. Notably CAIR, an unindicted co-conspirator in the Holy Land Foundation trial in 2008 and since rebranded as a civil rights organization, played a major role in fundraising through affiliated front organizations like the Unity and Justice Fund (UJF)

Which Mamdani Will Govern?

On one hand, Mamdani presents as western: democratic socialist, advocate of affordability, and bridge-builder across demographic divides. On the other hand, his political identity is suffused with religious-cultural symbolism, and an activist past tied to pro-Palestinian causes, and public ambiguity over one of the most polarizing global conflicts of our time.

If London is prologue, can New Yorkers expect more displays of both open religiosity and boisterous outreach to attract converts in Brooklyn and the Bronx? Will the Muslim call to prayer become a city feature as it already has in certain neighborhoods of Minneapolis and in Michigan cities like Dearborn and Hamtramck? Will protest marches for political causes aligned with the mayors views including Free Palestine and Globalize the Intifada appear more frequently as they have in Mayor Saddiq Khans London? Clearly Mamdani s victory speech did not reflect the unifying agenda many had hoped for. In fact, social media posts leaked a memo from inside the campaign indicating his administration would take immediate steps to divest NYC finances from Israel.

For Muslims in America, his ascension suggests they no longer need to stay in the shadows of public life. On the other hand, his campaign raises the question: will his mayoralty align primarily with the broad civic agenda of New Yorkers, or will ideological loyalties -- religious, global, or redistributive -- take priority?

His tenure will likely intensify debates over how much ideological clarity, religious identity, and foreign-policy entanglements are compatible with the role of mayor of Americas largest city. Trump will be watching!

Image: Bingjiefu He
You cant fight what you cant see. So allow me to ask a blunt question: How blind are we?

Talk of war is everywhere. A good number of military academics would tell you that WWIII began sometime between the 9/11 Islamic terror attacks and President Obamas decision to use the international banking system to freeze out nations deemed insufficiently compliant with the Wests brand of globalism. The more that Washington, London, and Brussels have insisted that the rules-based international order empowers Western officials to confiscate foreign assets or disrupt normal currency transactions whenever target nations refuse to do what Western officials demand, the faster that adversaries such as China and Russia have worked to build financial institutions beyond the Wests control.

The wars in Iraq and Afghanistan involved numerous players who called neither country home. Islamic militants came from Africa, Europe, Asia, and across the Middle East. Arms brokers from China, Russia, and South American narco-states made money from the prolonged conflicts. After the Taliban effectively ended heroin production in Afghanistan, opium poppy cultivation spiked with the arrival of American troops. Since 2001, Afghanistan has dominated the global market for illicit drugs, supplying more than 90% of the worlds heroin.

A lot of that heroin made its way back into the United States. At the same time, the pharmaceutical industry hooked millions of Americans on legalized opioids. Stepping in to take advantage of Americans growing addiction to illegal heroin and legal pain medications, China partnered with Central and South American cartels to flood fentanyl into the country. China sees the drug-trade as a way to weaken American society while establishing both alliances and smuggling routes that allow its soldiers to penetrate the American heartland.

Nobody knows exactly how many illegal aliens from China now operate in the United States, but they are certainly doing more than just quietly spying on rural military bases. Every time a core industrial factory or food production warehouse explodes, prudent people should wonder whether the incident was an accident or an act of sabotage. Every time a cellular phone network gets hacked or a financial institution acknowledges the theft of millions of consumer records, Americans should understand those events as forms of hybrid warfare. With human traffickers assisting the covert movements of Americas most formidable enemies, hybrid warfare can turn into kinetic warfare quickly.

President Trump and Secretary of War Hegseth are hunting drug boats in international waters. Killing narco-terrorists who kill Americans with fentanyl seems reasonable. But what else is going on? Venezuela holds the worlds largest proven oil reserves  more than the United States, Mexico, and Canada combined  and has natural resources worth roughly fifteen trillion dollars. When Marxist-socialist Hugo Chavez nationalized Venezuelas most important industries at the beginning of the century, he stole hundreds of billions of dollars in infrastructure from American companies. Do you think there might be a few people in Washington who believe its time to collect damages plus interest?

Speaking of interest, ever since Venezuela swung hard toward Chavezs economy-crippling socialism, Russia and China have increased their presence on Americas southern porch. Offering Venezuela scientific expertise and infrastructure in exchange for cheap energy and space for their espionage and military forces, Russia and China have greatly expanded their surveillance powers and lethal capabilities around the Caribbean these last two decades. Should the Wests proxy war in Ukraine transform into a head-to-head conflict between Russia and the United States, it will become imperative for America to control everything from the Florida Keys to northern South America. Should China follow through on its threats to invade Taiwan, it will simultaneously use its Venezuelan assets, alliances with narco-terrorists, and hibernating Chinese agents already inside the United States to attack critical American infrastructure and sow chaos. Any prudent military planner seeking either to prevent or win WWIII knows that American forces must box out adversaries already staging operations in or near Venezuela.

The Venezuelan government has also spent the last twenty-five years cultivating ties with Hezbollah and other Iran-backed terrorist groups. Islamic terrorists and Venezuelas narco-terrorists have long shared intel, weapons systems, logistical expertise, banking resources, and both real and counterfeit documents to advance non-competing interests. An interesting report recently republished on ZeroHedge notes that the U.S. military began blowing up Venezuelan drug boats within weeks of launching attacks on Irans nuclear facilities. There is credible evidence to suggest that Iran has been attempting to use Venezuelas smuggling networks to infiltrate the U.S. with terrorist operatives. What looks like a war on drugs may very well be a war on Islamic terrorists. Either way, control over Venezuela becomes critical for American national security.

The Trump administration has made no secret of its intentions to reestablish dominant control over the Western Hemisphere and batten down the hatches of Fortress America. It has designated North and South American drug cartels Foreign Terrorist Organizations and is going after Mexican and Canadian financial institutions that assist Chinese fentanyl sales and narco-terrorist money laundering. President Trump seeks to project American power as far north as Greenland and as far south as the Panama Canal. He is reorienting trade relations with Canada and Mexico in an effort to wean both nations economic reliance upon China. The presidents message is clear: America must secure the hemisphere before ongoing hostilities with foreign adversaries metastasize from hybrid forms of economic warfare into overt forms of violent war.

While America works to secure its borders and local neighborhood, Western authorities continue to vilify Russia for attempting to do the same with regard to Ukraine. For thirty years, Ukraine has been widely ridiculed within Europes elite political circles as being irredeemably corrupt. Ever since the Western-backed coup detat in 2014 and Russias renewed interest in Ukraines Russian-speaking Eastern territories, those same elite political circles have hailed Ukraines authoritarian government as Europes frontline in the defense of democracy. It does not seem to matter to the Europeans that Ukraine has all but banned political dissent, free speech, and religious freedom or that Ukraines President Zelenskyy has remained in office eighteen months beyond the end of his elected term. Europeans and Americans in favor of prolonging the war in Ukraine insist that military dictatorship is the sine qua non of democracy and that dissent is Russian disinformation.

For fifteen years, Russian disinformation has been the greatest fear of American and European politicians. Powerful Western authorities worry so much about Russias almost supernatural ability to steer public opinion that they have decided to save democracy by killing free speech. The corporate news media  revealing themselves to be subservient cogs of Western governments  have marshaled their resources to censor public dissent and brand anti-Establishment viewpoints as Russian propaganda.

Across the West nobody knows whats real anymore. Western governments accuse their geopolitical enemies of using social media platforms to engage in information warfare. At the same time, Western governments direct information warfare against their own citizens. Antifa terrorists riot against capitalism while Western capitalists bankroll Antifas mayhem. Big Pharma makes money by making sure everyone is sick. Big Tech defends free speech while censoring online accounts. Big Banks defend free markets while offshoring industries and inflating paper currencies. Western politicians divide the world between democracies and dictatorships, while monitoring all electronic communications and pushing for vaccine passports, digital IDs, facial recognition, mass surveillance, and central bank digital currencies.

Are we at war with foreign nations, or are our own nations at war with us? Both seem to be true. That sure makes it difficult to see what were fighting. Perhaps thats the point. Shake us until were dizzy and confused and parade us into our jail cells as we proclaim our allegiance to the coalition of the willing. Subjugation is a deadly cocktail of fear and chaos.

Image: NASA Goddard Space Flight Center via Flickr, CC BY 2.0 (cropped).
Its ironic: The right seems to be floundering, and the left has a clearly defined principle. The socialists want to fundamentally change America by tearing it down. In other words, the lefts affinity for ever more control through government oppression is its socialistic goal. Thats a principle with which I disagree.

This WSJ Editorial Board essay provides insight about the agenda-less Republicans in the House. Yet the origins of the Republican Party, hence the name, meant rule by the people for the benefit of the individual. Too bad so many Republicans forgot the principle that founded their party. Namely limited government created and controlled to protect the individual.

The current party lacks an agenda because it lacks a unifying principle, and in some cases, any principle. One cant have an agenda unless he knows where he wants to end up, and we cant define our goal unless we have a principle.

In order that the goal be meaningful, it must have certain characteristics: It must be eternal, and therefore beyond the dross of temporary diversion. Its objective must improve the lives (physical, intellectual, and spiritual) of those who seek the goal, and it must be fitted in the bedrock of truth.

It would be virtually impossible to determine such a profound goal in only one lifetime of thinking. Fortunately, we have the great ancient philosophers and prophets on whom to rely. Incredibly, the last great conclave of philosophers occurred just 250 years ago to beget our nation. This came about through the establishment  perhaps articulation is a better term  of a principle.

There are profound thinkers in every age. The miracle (dream) is that these highly principled men and women came together, put aside their petty egos, and cooperated to establish the Declaration and Constitution. They had attained a unifying principle.

Before we say it, consider that each person is divine. Many say that their body has a soul, when the true order is that their soul has a body and mind. Each person is blessed with an eternal soul that energizes their body and mind. That soul is eternal; therefore, it is part of our Creator. It is divine.

This is what the founders stated in the original declaration of principle, the Declaration of Independence: We hold these Truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, and endowed by Their Creator, with certain inalienable rights, among them are Life, Liberty and Ownership.

Thousands of years of thought, by ancient philosophers and prophets, coalesced into that one principle that started our nation. The Individual is sacred.

Anything that takes away from that one principle, is evil. Our founders realized that a government was needed, but that entity had to be limited and controlled or else it would consume the individual.

Therefore, they created the Constitution that defined very limited powers (not rights) that would accrue to a government and they limited the governments legal activity to only those articulated powers.

Compare the original concept of government and the individual to todays massive government and we get a sense of the problems we face to protect our progeny from the mistakes past generation made. After all, we allowed the progressive, socialistic mind set to take hold and grow our government to terrifying levels. The left has worked unimpeded for 100 years.

Its time for Rs, moderate Ds, independents, unaffiliated, and Libertarians to combine forces to put our government back in the bottle of Constitution restraint. Its the height of folly to think a politician will ever limit their own avarice through abuse of government powers. We have to do it. After all, our nation is a constitutional republic, and a republic is rule by the people, each divine soul.

Dispel the notion a government employee is better able to spend your money than you. He didnt earn it; government took it. Its not greedy to keep what you earned.

Every time a politician proposes a new federal program, he is going to increase government spending. That means he is going to take more of your earnings through taxation. Government spending is government control. It is the antithesis of individual freedom. It negates the principle upon which our nation was founded: the sanctity of the individual.

Jay Davidson is founder and CEO of a commercial bank, a student of the Austrian School of Economics and a dedicated capitalist. There is a direct connection between individual right and responsibility, our Constitution, capitalism, and the intent of our Creator.

Image via Pxfuel.
The term smart city fails to fully capture the integrated data system that is the Pudong New Area of Shanghai. Chinese authorities call it the city brain, a centrally controlled A.I. center that surveils and manages the city and its inhabitants. It offers a disturbing preview of future urban governance, built on a previously unimaginable level of monitoring and control. Since 2017, this system has linked hundreds of government databases to tens of thousands of sensors, effectively turning an entire urban district into a single, real-time data object.

Officials defend the surveillance for its tangible rewards: cleaner neighborhoods, faster emergency response, smoother traffic, and better protection for isolated seniors. Those benefits help explain why many citizens accept the system. But the costs are equally real. It normalizes penetrating, constant visibility, the steady expansion of behavior-based penalties, and an infrastructure that is also used for political and social control.

What is Pudongs city brain?

China Daily, the state newspaper, describes this hub as an online management platform that connects 341 separate government systems  including public security, city administration, and environmental protection. Feeding the system are roughly 40,000 networked sensing devices that monitor conditions in real time. These include cameras, traffic sensors, environmental monitors, and various Internet-of-Things devices mounted on buildings and infrastructure. In the first phase alone, the system ingested 11.8 petabytes of city data.

Urban management is divided into about 60 scenarios  bus route optimization, noise complaints, flood control, construction sites, sanitation, and more. Each scenario has its own indicators, alarms, and automatic response workflows. The result is a data platform whose purpose is to watch and coordinate the district at all times, providing a granular picture of daily life in Pudong.

What does the urban brain monitor?

One of the earliest use cases was to monitor and control construction trucks and freight vehicles. Pudong installed 24-hour probes along key routes so that when a truck violates routing rules, emits abnormal levels of dust, or enters a restricted area, the system automatically flags the incident, alerting law enforcement and the company that owns the vehicle. China Daily reports that the monitors have reduced daily irregularities from construction trucks from 30 a day to just two. Local officials credit the behavioral change to continuous monitoring and automated alerts.

The same platform ingests live feeds from traffic cameras and other sensors to manage congestion, adjust signals, and reroute public buses in real time. It is modeled on Alibabas City Brain traffic projects in other Chinese cities, which use artificial intelligence to analyze live camera and GPS data and optimize traffic flow. Alibaba can coordinate smart parking solutions, monitor road conditions and trigger maintenance alerts, manage intelligent streetlights that respond to weather and traffic, and operate smart grids to conserve energy.

Seeking to become a zero-waste city, Shanghai uses the urban brain to streamline waste management. Artificial intelligence monitors trash trucks and their loads. Cameras and weighing equipment detect when wet and dry trash are improperly mixed. The system records the time, location, license plate, and photo evidence, then sends a warning event to sanitation authorities. In just the first half of one recent year, Shanghais waste platform generated about 900 such alerts, many involving cases in Pudong.

Pudong also has a dedicated A.I. innovation hub, Zhangjiang Science and Technology City, where authorities experiment with trash bins that automatically recognize and sort waste using computer vision. Residents who fail to comply face fines of up to 200 yuan, with data and camera footage feeding into local enforcement. Wall Street Journal reporting notes that violators can lose social credit points, affecting job and loan applications, and that some apartment buildings post compliance lists in the lobby.

The city brain also monitors for illegal rooftop structures, unlicensed renovations, restaurants using recycled cooking oil (gutter oil), and unregistered gas installations. Vehicle-mounted gas sensors and high-precision methane detectors scan buildings and automatically log anomalies into the central platform.

Drones are used to check for illegal construction at high altitudes. The system dispatches drones equipped with cameras and A.I. recognition so that when the urban brain detects an illegal structure or violation, it can send a drone to capture evidence and upload images directly into a case management workflow, often within fifteen minutes. Authorities increasingly use drones to monitor citizens as well.

Monitoring the elderly

Several Shanghai communities, including Pudong, have installed smart water meters and other lifeline sensors in the homes of seniors. If a water meter shows no usage for a period of time, the system triggers an alert to the community for a welfare check. Additional smart monitors are deployed: smoke detectors, gas sensors, and life signal processors that feed data back to sub-centers and, in emergencies, to the central hub. Although these monitors can save lives, it also means that the state continuously monitors and logs the daily routines of vulnerable citizens.

The urban brain also monitors people. When a resident throws trash, drives a truck, renovates a rooftop, or fails to use water for a given period, his behavior is captured, logged, and evaluated. Over time, this builds a more granular picture of habits, routines, and deviations. Data may be framed as anonymous or for service improvement, but the combination of address-level sensors, license plates, and grid-style neighborhood management makes it easy for authorities to connect patterns back to individuals or families.

Chinas national social credit framework is not necessarily a single unified social score that triggers penalties. It is more accurately a system of multiple, separate blacklists, and local scoring systems. The state reshapes behavior both by law and through penalties and nudges, managed by algorithms. It is a system of coercion based on fear of detection. Data from Pudongs city brain feeds into these local administrative records. Residents and businesses can be fined, be publicly shamed, or face bureaucratic obstacles. In some cases, repeat offenders find it harder to get permits or contracts, even if there is no formal criminal charge.

There is no serious concept of data minimization or meaningful consent in Chinas public-sector data projects. Citizens cannot opt out of smart meters, street cameras, or drone flyovers. They rarely know what specific data are collected, how long they are kept, or who exactly has access. The uncertainty alone produces behavioral change and encourages self-censorship.

Massive, centralized data stores can be abused to target citizens or businesses. A mid-level official with access could target a citizen and sell data for bribes, business, or political advantage. Rival political factions can track loyalties and private meetings or selectively leak career-destroying information. Public debate over these risks inside China is muted, and independent oversight is minimal.

Pudong not the only algorithmic city

An even more advanced variant of Pudong is the Xiongan New Area, 500 miles from Beijing  a $500-billion A.I. city with about 5 million residents. Algorithms manage utilities through a vast tunnel network. Underground highways hide delivery trucks, while self-driving pods move goods to distribution points beneath apartment blocks. Residents live in tightly designed 15-minute communities, ringed by green infrastructure and the Millennium Forest Project, five times the size of Manhattan.

Western nations are also rolling out intelligent surveillance, but these systems are less centralized, less granular, and more private. Were a Western country to hoover up as much data, it would likely trigger media investigations, lawsuits, or political hearings.

Open criticism of state surveillance is risky in China. The press is controlled, civil society is tightly managed, and courts are not independent of the state. Public discussion of abuses is rare, few will question them, and most criticism is framed as hindering stability or helping foreign enemies. If internal rules or audits exist, they still operate within the same power structure that built the system in the first place.

Image via Pxhere.
Digital censorship has been underway in the E.U. for nearly a decade, but last week Brussels took it to a new level. The European Commission unveiled the latest weapon in its arsenal  the European Democracy Shield and accompanying E.U. Strategy for Civil Society  billed as a plan to protect democracy, a descriptor that usually means anything but that. The Shield is justified largely as a response to Russias information operations and, increasingly, to Chinas Gray-Zone warfare. One of its premises is that member-states cannot handle the threats on their own.

E.U. leaders say the initiative is designed to enhance democratic resilience across the Union, safeguarding elections, media, and civil society from hybrid threats, deepfakes, and foreign interference. Yet in practice, the programs stated goal to ensure that the right information reaches citizens sounds more like a system of control than one of protection. Initiatives like these may mean that those who challenge approved narratives on climate, health, food security, or immigration may be branded as risk sources.

The centerpiece is a new European Center for Democratic Resilience in Brussels, branded by some as a kind of European Ministry of Truth. The Center will act as a hub linking E.U. institutions, member-states, and candidate countries, pooling expertise and building early-warning systems to detect destabilization operations and almost undetectable (at least for the average consumer), coordinated disinformation campaigns. The framework stitches together existing and forthcoming laws, notably the Digital Services Act (DSA), the A.I. Act, and the European Media Freedom Act, all spotlighted in the political guidelines and this years State of the Union address by President von der Leyen.

It is worth recalling that the DSA, adopted in 2022, gave Brussels sweeping powers over online activity. That same year, the Commission updated the Code of Practice on Disinformation (originally adopted in 2016). The updated version features the Code of Conduct on Disinformation and the Code of Conduct on Countering Illegal Hate Speech Online+ and went into effect on July 1, 2025.

In January 2025, Very Large Online Platforms (VLOPs) and Very Large Online Search Engines (VLOSEs) including Facebook, Google Search, TikTok, Bing, Instagram, LinkedIn, Microsoft, and several others were signatories (17 total). The Commission stated in February 2025, The Code will become a relevant benchmark for determining DSA compliance regarding disinformation risks for the providers of VLOPs and VLOSEs that adhere to and comply with its commitments. The Code of Conduct was developed to counter illegal hate speech, disinformation, and facilitates voluntary codes of conduct to contribute to further transparency for actors in the online advertising value chain.

Under the Shield, VLOPs can be pulled into a DSA crisis and incidents protocol wherever the E.U. identifies a large-scale hybrid threat or disinformation operation. The E.U. defines hybrid threats as a mixture of coercive and subversive activities, conventional and unconventional methods (i.e. diplomatic, military, economic, technological), which can be used in a coordinated manner by state or non-state actors to achieve specific objectives while remaining below the threshold of formally declared warfare. The bloc adopted a Joint Communication on Countering Hybrid Threats in 2016.

The Shield is not limited to E.U. member-states. Candidate countries, including Ukraine, are explicitly invited to plug in. The Shield comes with early warning mechanisms for upcoming elections and referendums. It also hosts a Stakeholder Platform with a plan to create an Independent European Network of fact-checkers, researchers, and media organizations, arguably gatekeepers. This network is meant to work alongside the European Digital Media Observatory (EDMO), which will upgrade its monitoring and analytical capacity to provide situational awareness during elections and crises  essentially a live dashboard for disinformation trends.

Although the Democracy Shield formalizes a government-level framework for information defense, the same mission has been pursued for years through a sprawling network of U.S.-based university labs, think-tanks, and private contractors that work hand in hand with tech platforms and government agencies. These entities rarely describe themselves as censorship operations. Instead, they speak of cognitive structure, cognitive infrastructure, information integrity, resilience, or harm reduction, even as they perform narrative control and coordinated content moderation, often under the banner of critical infrastructure, especially elections. In 2022, Mayorkas took aim at ordinary Americans who questioned the 2020 election, redefining them as potential threats to the nations critical infrastructure and security.

Recall that the Biden administration experimented with a Disinformation Governance Board under the Department of Homeland Security. That board was scrapped after intense backlash over civil liberties concerns, but many other organizations and institutions continue the work of managing online narratives. Some that are still operating are sampled below:

Like their European counterparts, these U.S.-based operations rely on bureaucratic euphemisms and polished branding to obscure their roles as gatekeepers of online discourse. Some deploy risk labels  such as those used by NewsGuard and the Global Disinformation Index (GDI)  to choke off advertising revenue rather than remove content outright. Others produce OSINT-style briefings for platforms or policymakers instead of maintaining public flag lists. Many rely on dashboards, narrative maps, or case summaries instead of overt moderation logs, making their influence on content decisions far harder to trace, as seen with the DFRLab and Graphika. The institutions below illustrate how these systems operate and the mechanisms they use to steer information flows.

With sweeping initiatives like the Shield and its associate components and institutions, the question becomes: Who decides what is true? When the same bodies that that write and enforce policy also fund fact-checking networks and run early-warning systems, the line between neutral monitoring and narrative management blurs or disappears.

Once you build permanent machinery for labeling and throttling harmful content, every future commission potentially inherits a loaded weapon. Todays anti-Kremlin framework can become tomorrows tool for marginalizing domestic opposition or inconvenient journalism.

Legal overreach is a real risk. Critics note that the Shield leans on DSAs most complex and least-tested provisions  risk assessments, systematic risk mitigation, and crisis protocols that could turn digital competition and safety law into the backbone of political speech governance or government-controlled propaganda. A system marketed as protecting democracy can easily deteriorate into centralized power over speech in the hands of unelected officials and their network of trusted partners.

Image: Pezibear via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
FDA Commissioner Dr. Marty Makary is continuing to upset the establishments apple cart, for he is draining the swamp and restoring trust in public institutions. No wonder hes become an enemy in Washington.

First, lets look at his tenure under President Trump.

In the midst of being considered for the position of FDA Commissioner at Health and Human Services (HHS), Dr. Marty Makary stirred up controversy about the positions he had taken in the recent past:

Dr. Marty Makary rose to national attention by skewering the medical establishment in books and papers and bashing the federal response to COVID-19 on TV. [snip] Makary has called the U.S. food supply poison, says the federal government is the greatest perpetrator of misinformation about COVID-19 and regularly suggests that pesticides, fluoride and overuse of antibiotics may be to blame for rising rates of infertility, attention deficit disorder and other health conditions.

He was a passionate public spokesman with excellent credentials from Johns Hopkins University as a surgeon and researcher. He publicly voiced frustrations about the federal governments censorship around the COVID-19 vaccines, and took many opportunities to speak out against this deception. Especially important was the historic action he and Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. took just last week to liberate womens hormone replacement therapy:

Over the past two decades, tens of millions of women have been denied or not offered hormone replacement therapy or have otherwise avoided it because of a medical dogma that it would increase their risk of dying of breast cancer. Clinical trials, however, dont support that association. Its time to treat womens health with rigorous science instead of fear and misinformation. Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration is requesting that drug manufacturers remove black box warnings from these products. These are the strongest drug warning the agency can require, and they have inappropriately scared women off from this life-changing, and sometimes life-saving, treatment.

After years of an FDA with a tarnished reputation, Makary has actually turned things around for the agency. Makary made his position clear, that part of his role was to shake things up:

Commissioner Makary made it clear that he isnt here to maintain the status quo and he is here to shake loose entrenched assumptions, and remind industry of his view that common sense, in the right hands, can be a regulatory force multiplier. How he will impose common sense on policy will unfold over the next few months.

By way of this declaration, Makary no doubt ruffled the feathers of Big Pharma, colleagues in other departments at HHS, and the public at-large. Weve seen agency job cuts, and a draining of the swamp.

So what are the issues with Dr. Marty Makary?

People are complaining that he is not responsive to emails and doesnt always attend meetings. These oversights caused staff to challenge his leadership style. There were even threats to remove him. Fortunately, Makary has reportedly discussed these issues with Secretary Kennedy and his own staff.

Some people may be projecting their own frustration onto Makary regarding the changes that have occurred. The in-fighting at the FDA and disorganization have also disrupted Makarys desire to put improvements in place. He reminds people that he is there to make the U.S. one of the greatest health systems in the world:

Now firmly in the chair after the agencys controversial RIFswhich he was quick to remind everyone he did not initiateCommissioner Makary said that the FDAs future depends on rebuilding its culture, empowering its staff, and applying his vision of the now oft-repeated gold standard science and common sense. The agency, he noted, isnt a passive inbox for industry petitions. Its a brandthe greatest in the world, he saidand he thinks that change is needed to live up to that lofty reputation.

The facts are that Makary is forward-thinking, innovative, fearless, and yet careful and methodical about decisions that could affect the entire country. He isnt afraid to annoy people, because he has a mission to complete. And hes making it clear that he wants to empower his people to come along.

Lets hope he has the ability to persevere against the powers that be and continue on his exciting journey.

Image: Public domain.
There is growing evidence that Chinas infiltration of American systems is an alarming trend that no one can ignore.

China has found ways into secure systems in the U.S. A recent case from this year saw a soldier being charged with transmitting national defense information to individuals located in China. The Wall Street Journal reported on November 13, 2025, Chinas state-sponsored hackers used artificial-intelligence technology from Anthropic to automate break-ins of major corporations and foreign governments during a September hacking campaign. From reports of stealing intellectual property to targeting infrastructure, Beijings actions in the U.S. are deliberate and hostile.

The Chinese infiltration campaign seems to extend to the educational system, as China sells products and technology to K12 school systems in the U.S. This is a threat that could indoctrinate our children to the Communist Partys anti-American agenda while providing access to our childrens personal information and activities.

President Donald J. Trump recognizes Chinas existential crisis and is tackling the challenge head on. The president has used tariffs and negotiations to stand up more American businesses that have been sidelined by unfair trade practices and trade barriers to products entering China. But this fight cannot rest on Washington alone. State and local officials and governors must step up  and many are finally doing so.

The state of Georgia is leading the way, recognizing the Chinese threat to its citizens, state security, and educational systems. Recently, Georgia passed and enacted important legislation barring the state from contracting with certain countries, including China, that have been designated foreign adversaries by the federal government. This move is exactly what is needed to counter Beijings influence on our technology and government systems.

Georgia is not just talking about the problem. It is taking real action to protect American interests and safeguard its data and infrastructure. This is a bold example of leadership from Governor Brian Kemp that should inspire action in other states and governors.

Companies with Chinese ownership are fighting back. Lenovo, a multinational Chinese company with operations in the Beijing and North Carolina, recently sued the state of Georgia over this law. There are allegations that the company has close ties to the Chinese Communist Party. The irony is that China would never allow an American education company, especially one with strong U.S. government ties, to enter the Chinese market for educating that nations youth.

Lenovo was founded in China but has expanded into North Carolina to help the company sell in the United States without the taint of being Chinese. Despite the company denying ties to the Chinese Communist Party, Rep. Mike Gallagher (R-Wis.) alleged in a letter, and as reported by the Military Times, Lenovo is closely affiliated with the Peoples Liberation Army, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, and the [Peoples Republic of China] government. If the congressman is correct, Lenovo is a Chinese-owned firm, and the threat from its CCP ties is real. Its attempts to sue Georgia are nothing more than a desperate effort to undermine a law that protects American security and sovereignty.

The members of the House Select Committee on the Chinese Communist Party are so convinced that Lenovo is a problem that they have asked the Navy Exchange Services Command to stop selling that companys products to U.S. service members. Lenovo touts its operations in the United States, but committee members see that North Carolina partnership as a way to masquerade as a U.S. company.

Lenovos lawsuit pushes against the national security interest to keep our schools free from foreign influence. Georgias legislation seems necessary move to keep CCP-controlled technologies out of sensitive American systems. Technologies that involve the education of our children touch on a security issue that is very different from a China-based company selling a kid a tee shirt or shorts. National security concerns are triggered when foreign-backed firms are in our public schools. It is not unreasonable to worry that propaganda may creep into the education system with foreign sensitivities and ideologies woven in with education technology.

Georgia has taken the lead, and others should follow. Both Democrat and Republican administrations have acknowledged a real economic threat from China, but actions are needed to follow through on some promises from politicians. States need laws and firm policies.

Every state should shield its systems and citizens from foreign-made technologies that pose security risks. This is a non-partisan issue, where both parties seek to defend American innovation, jobs, and security.

Image: jarmoluk via Pixabay, Pixabay License.
So it's not just raw, untreated, Tijuana sewage that's flowing into the U.S., creating the nation's filthiest beaches, it's also raw, untreated trash.

The recent rains in the area have drawn attention to what else is coming in -- and it's not pretty.

According to Border Report:

Landfills in San Diego County have begun receiving some 40 tons of trash and debris from Mexico that a trash boom stopped last month near the border.

Alter Terra, a binational environmental group, set up the boom in the Tijuana River channel, and it only took one hour to collect all that trash.

Initial estimates put the amount at 20 tons, but as trucks started hauling it out, the group later determined that as much as 40 tons of trash was collected during that one-hour rain event.

Landfills north of the border are having to take in the additional trash, compounding a critical shortage of landfill space, according to Oscar Romo, director of Alter Terra.

They've got plenty of back-country land, but instead of put it there, they just ship it north, knowing Gringo will pay to take care of it. And that's why it keeps coming.

Which is pretty ironic: California's governor, Gavin Newsom, has jetted down to Brazil in the past week, to pontificate about saving the rainforest and conserving the Earth, and all that. Back home, his state has become a Mexican dumping ground and he still refuses to declare an emergency on just the sewage matter; he's definitely not done a thing about the garbage rolling in.

It's not even his state's garbage, it's foreign garbage, which is a lot easier to take a stand against, but he just doesn't care. If anything tells us the green environmental scam is all about government power rather than saving the Earth, this would be a good example.

One of the rare Republicans in the California statehouse Asssembly, Rep. Carl DeMaio, whom Newsom hates with a passion, has taken a stand for his beleaguered city with the sewage- and garbage-strewing Mexican neighbor with this call to action:

BREAKING: Mexico is dumping their trash on our side of the border! Contaminating our environment and filling our landfills! Im calling for an immediate federal investigation and enforcement action! pic.twitter.com/htDRGdciod  Carl DeMaio (@carldemaio) November 17, 2025

Another rare Republican, Supervisor Jim Desmond, has taken a similar stand, too.

But not one Democrat has spoken out on this continuous phenomenon of Tijuana making San Diego its dumping ground, its landfill, its toilet. Yes, it's been a problem for a while. But now it's getting worse.

There's even a recipe for something called 'Tijuana Trash.'

So much for a green agenda. This reeks of hypocrisy, and in more ways than one.

Image: Screen shot from Jim Desmond video, via X
November 19, 2025: The June 13 Israeli air strikes on Iranian nuclear development facilities and personnel did more than just kill essential technical personnel. These scientists and administrative officials were difficult to replace. It required decades of training and work experience to create qualified personnel. It will take even longer to replace them. That assumes any qualified Iranians are willing to join the nuclear weapons project.

Iran has another problem. It was obvious that the Israeli Mossad foreign intelligence service has hundreds of operatives, nearly all of them Iranians, working for Israel in Iran. On June 25 Iranian intelligence forces arrested over 700 Iranians and accused them of being Israeli intelligence agents. Earlier two Iranians were executed after be accused of meeting with Israeli Mossad agents. This year Iran executed at least a thousand men, most of them on suspicion of working for Israel. This has created a culture of fear and paranoia among Iranian nuclear scientists and the military personnel that work with them. Iran is desperate to discover how much Mossad has penetrated their nuclear development program as well as the Iranian military. Several key scientific and military personnel were believed to be working for Mossad. Before restarting its nuclear weapons program, Iran has to find out who can be trusted. This will take years and it might not be until the 2030s that the nuclear program can be resumed in ear

Iran has had these trust issues before. Thats because there are still many descendants of Iranian Jews in Israel. When Israel was founded in 1948, Jews living in Muslim countries throughout the region became unwelcome. They fled to Israel, where they found safety and greater prosperity than in their former homelands. This migration also provided the Israeli secret service, Mossad, with qualified recruits for espionage and intelligence analysis, enabling them to monitor neighboring countries. Over time, Israel secured peace and trade agreements with its neighbors, starting with Egypt and Jordan. Eventually, the Gulf Arab states recognized Israel as a valuable ally against Iran. Before Irans religious revolution in the 1980s, Israel and the Iranian monarchy maintained good relations. Many Iranians today wish to restore that relationship.

Israel and Iran have been adversaries since 1979, when Irans monarchy was replaced by a religious dictatorship masquerading as a democracy. The new government held elections, with nominally elected officials running the state, but senior religious leaders, or Ayatollahs, retained the power to approve candidates. The senior Ayatollahs role involves more politics than religion. A key distinction between Iranian religious leaders and those in Arab countries is that Iranians are Shia Muslims, while over 80 percent of Muslims worldwide are Sunni. Shia and Sunni Muslims generally coexist, though disagreements persist over which branch represents the more legitimate form of Islam.

Israel exploits these differences, often aligning with Sunni Arabs against the Persians, as some in the region still refer to Iranians. The term Iranian began replacing Persian about a century ago, but Persian persists. Historically, Shia Iranians and Sunni Arabs have clashed. Until oil was discovered and exported a century ago, these tensions were inconsequential. Oil wealth transformed the dynamic between Iranians and Arabs. The Arabs possessed far more oil, but Iran leveraged its oil revenue to bolster its military. Irans advantages of abundant agriculture and natural resources gave it a military edge over the Gulf Arabs, whose Arabian Peninsula offered little arable land. They survived through coastal towns and cities, importing goods to trade with interior tribes. Only Yemen, in the far south of the peninsula, had sufficient rainfall to support agriculture, but the region lacked oil.

In religious terms, the Gulf Arabs and Iranians viewed Israelis as enemies of Islam, a group to be eradicated from the region. Yet Israel proved remarkably resilient against these threats. Over recent decades, the Gulf Arabs have come to see the prosperous and militarily formidable Israel as a useful ally, particularly as Iran edged closer to developing nuclear weapons, a prospect no one in the region, nor the nations purchasing Persian Gulf oil, supported.

This context set the stage for the massive June Israeli-American airstrikes on Iran, which destroyed most of Irans nuclear weapons development and production facilities. Israels informant network in Iran identified key military, intelligence, and security officials for targeted elimination during the attack.

Israeli military planners exploited Iranian leaders miscalculations. The Iranians believed Israel would refrain from action before the next round of nuclear weapons negotiations, dismissing Israeli moves as mere propaganda to extract concessions. This misjudgment proved fatal, as Iran failed to implement safety protocols, such as restricting leadership meetings to secure locations. Instead, leaders convened at a military base, a fact noted and reported by Israeli operatives inside Iran.

Israel maintains hundreds of operatives within Iran, mostly Iranians disillusioned with the religious dictatorship mismanaging the country. Iranian leaders largely dismiss the possibility that Israel could recruit and deploy such operatives. This arrogance has repeatedly proven costly. In 2018, these operatives enabled Israel to extract half a ton of Iranian nuclear weapons program documents. Iranian underestimation of Israeli capabilities remains a recurring flaw.

Israels exploitation of Iranian errors has succeeded multiple times because Iranian leaders refuse to accept that Israel operates this way, or that their own people harbor such deep resentment as to collaborate with Israeli intelligence, or that Israel has infiltrated Irans regime security forces. During the June 13 Israeli attack, Iran made further costly miscalculations. Israel, with American assistance, killed several senior military leaders, destroyed most Iranian air defense systems and ballistic missile operations, and crippled underground nuclear material processing facilities.

The June 13 attacks enraged Irans leaders, prompting retaliation with roughly a hundred missiles and drones that survived the Israeli assault. Some struck their targets, causing about two dozen Israeli casualties and damaging buildings. Iran launched subsequent attacks, inflicting further damage.

Meanwhile, Irans challenges are mounting. A new program aims to cripple Iranian oil exports by imposing severe financial penalties on nations purchasing Iranian oil. This wont halt sales entirely but will reduce them, limiting Irans funds for regional mischief.

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei survived because the American B-2 bombers that struck Irans underground nuclear facilities were not deployed to target him. Israel and the U.S. agreed to leave Khamenei in place, viewing him as a known quantity, whereas his successor could be worse.

Ultimately, this brief Iran-Israel war left over 5,000 Iranians dead or wounded, while Israel suffered 29 deaths and nearly 3,500 injuries. Iranian errors, coupled with Israeli ingenuity and swift action, secured victory once again. The war persists, but Iran received another stark reminder not to underestimate Israel. The Iranians, however, never stop trying.
As someone said, move to a red state if you want a more affordable lifestyle. Maybe thats too simplistic, but there is something to the idea that living in a blue area does not bring you a good return on your investment, i.e. taxes. Lets check this from Fareed Zakaria:

If America has an affordability crisis, it tends to be in places Democrats govern, like New York, Illinois and California, which all feature high taxes, soaring housing costs and stagnant outcomes in basic areas like education and infrastructure. Consider New York City, the countrys largest and most important metropolis. The mayor-elect wants to spend more money on shiny new programs, but surely it would be worth first asking what happened to the money already raised? In 2012, toward the end of Michael Bloombergs mayoralty, the citys budget was about $65 billion. Today it is about $116 billion, an increase of more than 75 percent in just over a decade. Spending has soared while the subway deteriorates. Housing costs rise and public schools remain mediocre despite spending more than $36,000 per pupil last year, the highest in the nation among major school districts. The result is a paradox that defines much of blue state America. Government that promises more costs more, but delivers less. New York state mirrors the city. Its spending has risen from roughly $70 billion in 2000 to more than $230 billion today, about twice Floridas budget even though Florida has several million more residents. When voters see that record, they conclude, not unreasonably, that more money is not the answer. Yet Democrats instinctive response to every problem remains the same  spend more. The truth is that local government in the U.S. is already living on borrowed time. For decades, states and cities have traded short-term political harmony for long-term fiscal ruin. To keep peace with powerful public sector unions, they promise ever more lavish pensions and benefits, then quietly defer the bill to future taxpayers. Across America these obligations act like slow motion fiscal time bombs. Invisible for now, but guaranteed to explode.

And explode they will, which may be one of the reasons why more and more taxpayers are changing from blue to red zip codes.

Mr. Zakaria makes a wonderful point. The Democrats make promises, raise taxes, and then the trains are never on time. The bureaucracy turns into an employer and voting bloc rather than a business of serving the voters who fund it. The public schools are the best example of everything that is wrong with blue governance.

Kids cant do math or read, but the bureaucracy grows and grows. The police have a knife in their back and cant fight crime without getting thrown into some kind of investigation.

So the blue areas cant teach our children, cant stand behind their law enforcement officers, cant run the trains on time, but keep proposing larger tax increases, as we see in Chicago.

The model is failing, and its nice to see Mr. Zakaria point this out.

P.S. Check out my blog for posts, podcasts, and videos.

Image from Grok.
Nov. 18 should henceforth be recognized as far more dangerous than Jan. 6 ever was. Far more shocking. And an actual attempt at fomenting an insurrection, a coup. The Nov. 18ers should be forever shamed and discredited.

Rather than hundreds of unruly Trump supporters strolling through the Capitol building, many of whom were subsequently incarcerated for doing so, we have just witnessed six sitting Democrat lawmakers openly urge members of the military and intelligence community to defy direct orders from the president of the United States.

Sen. Elissa Slotkin (D-MI) posted a video to social media Tuesday morning in which she and five of her fellow traitors congressional Democrat colleagues called for the military and the intelligence community to stand up to President Donald Trump and his administration. In other words, to defy his orders if desired. To defy the orders of the commander-in-chief.

The video features Slotkin, the infamous and always grating Sen. Mark Kelly (AZ) -- and Reps. Jason Crow (CO), Chrissy Houlahan (PA), Chris Deluzio (PA), and Maggie Goodlander (NH).

In the video, Kelly and Crow stated, This administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens.

Later in the video, Kelly, Slotkin, and Deluzio said, Our laws are clear. You can refuse illegal orders. You can refuse illegal orders. You must refuse illegal orders.

To be clear, the Seditious Six are pitting the intelligence community and military against the duly elected commander-in-chief. (All of whom are themselves citizens.)

Should their pleas be acted upon, this would not only result in an actual attempted insurrection or coup, but could provoke a civil war.

They added, whether you are serving in the CIA, the Army, our Navy, the Air Force, your vigilance is critical. And know that we have your back. Because now more than ever, the American people need you."

The American people do need our military and intelligence services, just not the weaponized ones that the Obama and Biden administrations created.

The American people dont need the half-dozen subversive, traitorous clowns who appear in this video. And they certainly dont need them pushing to divide the nation further -- and the military and intelligence services that are sworn to serve it.

Houlahan noted that Americans trust their military, while Deluzio asserted that trust is at risk.

It is, but only if enough members of the military act at the behest of the Seditious Six.

Image: Screen shot from X video
For years, the Democrat party and the political left have waged a relentless campaign to convince Americans that their country is broken. From Hollywood stages to university lecture halls, from media panels to congressional podiums, the message is clear and repeated: America is racist, misogynistic, homophobic, and systemically unjust. Children are taught to view their nation not as a beacon of liberty, but as a shameful relic of oppression. Patriotism is mocked, the flag is vilified, and the very foundations of American pride are eroded by those who claim moral superiority.

Yet in the midst of this ideological assault, a glaring hypocrisy emerges, one so profound it inadvertently confirms the greatness of the very country they claim to despise. Over the past three to four years, under the previous administration, an estimated 15 to 20 million illegal aliens crossed the southern border into the United States. Many came seeking opportunities fleeing poverty, violence, or authoritarian regimes.

This is not a new phenomenon. Many illegal aliens have lived in the U.S. for decadessome for over 20 yearswithout legal status. And now, under the current administration, they are being offered a remarkable opportunity: to return to their homelands, to reunite with their countrymen, their family, and to live in the nations they once called home. The U.S. government is even willing to cover travel expenses, facilitating a dignified return. But instead of welcoming this chance, the left erupts in fury.

Protests break out across the country. ICE agents are screamed at, harassed, and assaulted. Democrats denounce deportations as inhumane. Celebrities take to social media to decry the cruelty of sending people back to their own countries. Many of the loudest voices are womeneducators, media personalities, and elected officialswho have spent years telling Americans that their country is a disgrace. And yet, when given the chance to help illegal aliens leave this supposedly terrible nation, they resist with everything they have.

Why? Because their actions betray their rhetoric. Deep down, they know the truth: America is still the best country in the world.

If the United States were truly the racist, oppressive, and violent place the left claims it is, wouldnt they be eager to see illegal aliens return to their homelands? Wouldnt they celebrate the chance to remove people from such a toxic environment? Instead, they fight to keep them here. They insist that sending illegal aliens back to their countries of origin is cruelbecause those countries lack the opportunities, freedoms, and safety that America provides. In doing so, they admit what patriots have always known: America, despite its flaws, remains unmatched in its promise and prosperity.

Even more disturbing is the lefts obsession with protecting illegal alien criminals. Time and again, Democrat-run cities and states have enacted sanctuary policies that shield violent offenders from deportation. Murderers, rapists, and repeat assaulters are allowed to remain in the country, often released back into communities without consequence. Law-abiding citizens suffer, while the left defends the indefensibleall in the name of compassion. But this isnt compassion. Its ideological madness. And it further exposes the contradiction at the heart of their worldview.

American patriotsconservatives, Republicans, MAGA supporters, and Trump supportersdont need this hypocrisy to prove what they already know. They see America as the greatest nation on earth, a land built on freedom, liberty, sacrifice, and opportunity. They understand that while no country is perfect, the United States stands alone in its capacity to uplift the individual, protect freedom, and inspire hope. Thats why millions risk everything to come here. Thats why illegal aliens resist leaving. And thats why the lefts desperate fight to keep them here is the most ironic confession of all.

The contradiction is staggering. The Democrat party teaches children to hate America, yet they fight to keep outsiders within its borders. They condemn the nation as racist, yet they insist immigrants must remain. They call America oppressive, yet they resist sending people back to countries with far fewer freedoms. Their hypocrisy is not just politicalits philosophical. It reveals that even those who claim to hate America cannot deny its greatness when faced with the alternative.

In the end, the lefts actions speak louder than their words. Their protests, their obstruction, and their defense of illegal alienscriminal or otherwiseconfirm what they refuse to say out loud: America is still the land of opportunity, the most sought-after nation in the world, and the best place to live. Their hypocrisy is a backhanded compliment, a reluctant admission, and a powerful testament to the enduring strength of the American experiment.

Let them scream. Let them protest. Let them contradict themselves. Because every time they fight to keep someone here, they prove the very thing they claim to deny: that America, despite their hatred, remains the hope of the world.

Image generated by AI.
President Trump has shown himself willing to sue those people who libel him. I hope hes paying attention to the libelous statements that Democrats are making by trying to tie him to Jeffrey Epstein.

To date, the tens of thousands of Epstein documents already available do not show that Trump was guilty of wrongdoing in connection with Epsteins perversions. Indeed, Trump seems to have been the only public figure to sever ties with Epstein long before the police caught up with him and, once they had caught up with him, to work with Epsteins victims to help them. Moreover, Epsteins victims have explicitly disavowed engaging with Trump or seeing him engage with anyone else.

That hasnt stopped the Democrats. Theyve been rewriting history to prove that Trump was entangled in Epsteins web. So far, based on the available evidence, they cant touch him. Instead, they succeed in smearing him only through outright lies, suppression of facts, or innuendo.

The GOP-led House Oversight Committee put together a long thread showing the way Democrats are misrepresenting Trump. Cloudflares failure prevents my embedding it here, but you can read the thread yourself, and I urge you to do so. It reveals how Democrats are dishonestly manipulating the record.

Other Democrats have come right out and accused Trump of pedophiliawhich, under the old English common law, could make them liable for the tort of libel per se. This is a special class of accusations that are automatically assumed to be damaging.

A type of defamatory statement that falls in this class is to accuse someone of having committed a crime of moral turpitude. Pedophilia falls squarely within that category. If you can prove someone said the words (easily enough done here), and you can prove that the words were untrue, you are automatically entitled to damages.

So, whos been doing the accusing? One of the people who has paired Trump with pedophiles is Rep. Jim McGovern (D-Mass). He tried to be clever because he didnt name Trump explicitly. Instead, he stated that a child sex trafficking ring was being run out of Mar-a-Lagoand Mar-a-Lago, quite obviously, means Trump himself. The two are indistinguishable in the public mind:

If (as I anticipate) future Epstein documents continue to show that Trump is innocent of wrongdoing, Rep. McGovern cannot claim the Speech or Debate Clause as a defense to legal action. That clause applies only to statements made on the floor of the House or Senate. McGovern made this statement on X.

And then theres the entity known as Occupy Democrats, which even Wikipedia says publishes hyperpartisan content,[15] clickbait,[21] and false information.[23][24] Occupy Democrats Facebook page boasts 11 million followers, and its very active, putting up sometimes dozens of posts a day.

One of those posts, with Occupy Democrats name proudly appended, relayed McGoverns potentially libelous statement:

In another post, Occupy Democrats deployed a very peculiar type of logic to challenge Karoline Leavitts robust and factual defense against the pedophile claims. It insisted that an avalanche of Epstein files reveals that Trump knew about the girls was dirty and spent hours at the pedophiles house. (In other words, Trump is a pedophile.)

Occupy Democrats was forced to concede that Virginia Guiffre (whom Democrats tried to disguise as just a VICTIM) explicitly said that Trump was never involved. That left only innuendo, with the absence of evidence filling in for proof:

Even if Trump did not prey on Giuffre  and it's possible that she was simply afraid of accusing him of wrongdoing  that doesn't preclude him from having preyed on other underage girls. He spent an enormous amount of time with Epstein, clearly knew about his predations, and is himself an avowed sexual predator and adjudicated rapist.

The Occupy people were also forced to concede that Trump broke with Epsteina fixture in Palm Beachlong before anyone else. (Indeed, Trump was the only one, even as Democrats like Bill Gates, Larry Summers, George Stephanopoulos, Katie Couric, and others, continued to pal around with Epstein despite his sex crime conviction.)

Nevertheless, to Occupy Democrats, Trumps righteous behavior is proof of his guilt:

Trump has admitted that the real reason that he kicked Epstein out of Mar-a-Lago was that the pedophile billionaire "stole" Giuffre and other workers. The use of the word "stole" highlights how Trump viewed these women as objects to be hoarded and fought over. His problem with Epstein wasn't that he was a creep, it's that he was out-creeping him.

The post continues in this vein, dismissing facts as irrelevant and asserting what is currently baseless supposition as fact. The obvious conclusion its pushingthat Trump is a pedophileis something its doing without any evidence. And that, absent a change in the available information, could be the basis of a libel per se lawsuit.

I sincerely hope that Trump sues people who wrongfully call him a pedophile. That smear is not mere politics as usual, that is, the slings and arrows of attacks that occur if youre going to step into the public arena. Instead, it is a smear so vile that, for centuries, the English common law system said you didnt have to prove damages. Being defamed in this way is fundamentally damaging and deserving of redress.
Yesterday marked the 60th anniversary of a letter, sent as the Second Vatican Council was nearing its end, by the Catholic bishops of Poland to their German counterparts. Two decades after the end of the war in Europe, the Polish bishops told their German brothers that we forgive and ask for forgiveness.

Who cares about a sixty-year-old Catholic document? What does it have to do with the ways of the world?

A lot.

The Polish bishops letter arguably was a huge force in helping restore East-West contacts, preceding the detente political leaders would try to usher in throughout the 1970s. It was another crack in the Iron Curtain, which, 24 years later, would finally collapse. (For an excellent historical overview of the letter, see here).

Remember the context. The letter was sent twenty years after World War II, when memories of what happened were still fresh. And there were few places where German atrocities had been more egregious than in Poland. Twenty percent of Polands population perished in the Second World War. For a comparison, it would mean America losing almost seventy million people today  one in every five Americans.

The Soviet Union kept contacts between its satellite states and the West cut. West Germany was the enemy. Socialism insisted that the puppet East German Democratic Republic was the sole legitimate anti-fascist heir of Germany. Moscow intended to keep Germany  and Europe  divided and at loggerheads. Remember that at the time, the Berlin Wall was not yet four years old.

Sitting across from their German counterparts in St. Peters Basilica, the Polish bishops felt a religious duty to heal that breach. They knew the historical record personally. Cardinal Wyszynski, as a priest, was hunted during the war. Cardinal Wojtya, the future Pope John Paul II, was left for dead in a hit-and-run by a German truck. So, despite those things, they reached across the aisle and declared, We forgive.

And, they added, we ask forgiveness.

Those three words set off a firestorm: Poles could forgive Germans for what they did, but what did Poles need to ask forgiveness for? That expression met resistance from the faithful, and it was thoroughly exploited by the communists to split the people from the Church.

But the Polish bishops recognized, at that unique juncture in the Churchs history, that it wasnt just a question of 193945. Poles and Germans had lived next to each other for almost a thousand years. Indeed, that was another incentive for the letter: The Polish bishops wanted to invite the German bishops to join them in the millennium of Polish Christianity in 1966. They had invited Pope Paul VI; the communists kept him out. The communists wanted to make 1966 a celebration only of Polish statehood; the Church insisted that the full historical truth be told. The Polish state began to exist in 966 because it accepted Christianity with the baptism of King Mieszko. Church and state started together in Poland.

Theologically, the bishops were also on solid ground: Christians who daily pray the Lords Prayer ask to be forgiven our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us. Forgiving without seeking forgiveness is senseless. And, as Jesus reminded His listeners, when you go to Temple and remember your brother has something against you, stop, go and be reconciled first, and then come and make your offerings (Matt. 5:24).

The fact that the bishops did this was enormously significant, religiously and politically. The Polish satellite state was content to leave PolishWest German relations in the deep freeze. The Polish bishops action made clear that there were others in the country who also spoke for Poland (a claim against which the communists railed in 1965). Like Solidarity 15 years later, the bishops moved the country forward where the sclerotic state would not go.

In 1970, West German chancellor Willy Brandt arrived in Warsaw. Among the moving scenes of that visit was his kneeling at the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising memorial. Brandts visit would open the way for other Western leaders to reach out across the Iron Curtain, gestures that would help reconnect broken ties with the West. None of that likely would have happened, or happened as fast as it did, if the Polish bishops in Rome did not tell their German peers, We forgive and ask for forgiveness.

Its said Stalin asked Roosevelt in Yalta, How many divisions does the pope have? The question was intended to jeer the Churchs influence in world politics. In 1965, he got something of an answer: at least one Polish episcopal battalion that started tearing down Uncle Joes Iron Curtain.

Image: A. Savin, Wikipedia.
The Miami mayoral runoff, coming on December 9, is far more than a local contest. It is the first real test of whether Republicans can regain their footing after multiple off-year setbacks.

The first round, on November 4, made that clear when Democrat Eileen Higgins led with 36 percent. Republican Emilio Gonzalez finished at 20 percent in a crowded 13-candidate field. That result reflected a deep frustration with Miamis political dynasties, all of whom were rejected by voters. It also signified a badly split non-leftist electorate, whose overall turnout was weaker than that of those on the left.

Furthermore, it underscored a warning for the GOP: conservative voters cannot afford to sit out elections simply because Donald Trump is not on the ballot.

That pattern defined the broader landscape. Democrats won the governorships of Virginia and New Jersey by double digits. They expanded their legislative majorities, and made congressional redistricting gains in California, at a time when families nationwide are squeezed by rising costs. Much of this occurred with Republican turnout depressed amid the federal shutdown and Trumps absence from the ticket.

These losses fueled a sense of vulnerability that Trump himself acknowledged in a Miami speech, even as he reminded audiences of economic achievements like tax cuts and energy strength.

Miami is now the pivot point. A Higgins victory, as Florida Democrat party chair Nikki Fried argued, would send a national signal about Democrat viability in a state that has trended strongly red. Her party sees the runoff as a chance to reinvest in Florida after years of losses.

Of course, with a rapidly growing 1.4 million lead over Democrats among registered voters, Republicans are almost certain to win the Sunshine State under any circumstances. The thing is, increased Democrat spending there means GOP resources will necessarily be diverted from actual battleground states.

Republican analysts warn that failing to mobilize low-propensity Trump voters now could foreshadow deeper problems in the 2026 midterms.

That is why Gonzalezs candidacy matters so much. He is not a symbolic figure. He is a retired U.S. Army colonel, the former CEO of Miami International Airport, and a former city manager. He has a record of boosting revenue through economic growth and streamlining operations. His Making Miami Work Again agenda promises property tax relief for homesteaded homeowners, lighter burdens on small businesses, and a posture of accountability that resonates strongly in a city weary of dysfunction.

On November 16, Trump took to Truth Social with an enthusiastic endorsement of Gonzalez:

As Miamis next Mayor, he will fight tirelessly to Grow the Economy, Cut Taxes and Regulations, Advance MADE IN THE U.S.A., Unleash American Energy DOMINANCE, Keep our now very Secure Border, SECURE, Stop Migrant Crime, and Defend our always under siege Second Amendment.  HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!

Trump won Miami-Dade County by double digits last year, the first Republican since 1988 to do so, and his party took the edge among registered voters there soon after. However, he lost Miami itself by a single point, where Democrats retain a narrow edge among registrants. Nonetheless, the Magic City has not elected a Democrat mayor since the 1990s.

This runoff arrives as Democrats attempt to build on a wave that includes the election of Zohran Mamdani as New York Citys Democrat socialist mayor. His victory was driven by talk of rent freezes, city-run grocery stores, pro-immigration fanaticism, anti-Israel invective, Islamist identity politics, and heavy taxation of whites.

Americans worried that such poison will spread must understand why Miami is so important now. The GOP needs a rebuttal rooted in competence rather than theatrics. Gonzalez offers precisely that, through a disciplined, results-oriented record forged in military service, public administration, and business acumen.

Republicans across the country should view the Miami mayoral runoff not as some obscure municipal contest, but as their clearest chance to reverse the sour narrative that emerged from Novembers snafus. A loss would send a distressing signal as midterm season unfolds: that even in the MAGA coalitions marquee state, GOP voters can stay home while Democrats march in lockstep.

Opponents of leftism are already anxious after what happened in Virginia, New Jersey, California, and the Big Apple. They must beware another pitfall that lets the media crow about Trump fatigue or GOP disarray.

Winning Miami breaks the doom and gloom, flipping the script overnight.

It would give Republicans a tangible success story to rally around during the long midterm runway. It would also blunt Democrat attempts to nationalize every race as a referendum on MAGA. Finally, it would remind the base that showing up in off-brand elections is how majorities are built and protected.

In short, Miami is the bridge: lose it and the 2025 losses calcify into a trend. Win it and Republicans demonstrate that November was a hiccup, not a harbinger.

Dr. Joseph Ford Cotto is the creator, host, and producer of News Sight, delivering sharp insights on the key events that shape everyday life. During the 2024 presidential race, he developed the Five-Point Forecast, which accurately predicted Donald Trumps national victory and correctly called every swing state. Cotto holds a doctorate in business administration and is a Lean Six Sigma Certified Black Belt.

Image generated by ChatGPT.
Samsung Community is a platform to discuss the brands products and services. This is available in the Samsung Members app for Galaxy phones and tablets. This lets users ask queries or complain about any issues theyre facing, share tips and news with other members on the platform. Several users are now reporting a phishing scam that is spreading in the Samsung Members app.

Users of the Samsung Members app become victims of a new scam

While the Samsung Members platform as a whole is safe, scammers are now leveraging the platform to run a scam. Reportedly, scammers have been creating accounts on the Samsung Community lately and sending users phishing messages. Users are reportedly receiving a message that informs users that Samsung has received a complaint about their profile, and the company needs to verify their account. They say this is to prevent issues like account loss, threats, and other illicit activities.

The message asks users to click on the link to verify, but it is actually a malicious link. It says that if they dont complete the verification within 24 hours, the account will be suspended. The message notes that Samsung may impose a penalty of $500 on the user.

The malicious links may open a website that resembles the login page of a website you know to steal your credentials. It may also ask you to pay a fine for something or install an app that may be harmful. Scammers may also use your personal data for extortion.

Moderators and users on the platform are warning users about such scams and asking users not to click any external links. They are even asking to report such messages and accounts. On its part, Samsung is deleting such accounts.
AI is a wondrous piece of technology, but its far from perfect. Sometimes it cites outdated knowledge, and sometimes it just outright makes it up. This is known as hallucinations, and while it might be a mild inconvenience for some, it could be potentially damaging for others. So much so that Google is now facing a defamation lawsuit over its AI.

Google faces an AI defamation lawsuit

Google is currently facing an AI defamation lawsuit filed by Robby Starbuck. Starbuck alleged that Googles AI falsely associated him with sexual assault allegations and being a white nationalist. Starbuck had previously sued Meta in a similar lawsuit, although in Metas case, the company opted to settle.

However, Google doesnt appear to be as eager. In fact, Google has filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit. According to the company, it claims that Starbuck had misused developer tools to induce hallucinations. Starbuck has yet to identify what prompts he used to generate the outputs that led to the lawsuit. It is also unclear if there were any actual persons who might have been misled by these hallucinations.

Starbuck is seeking $15 million in damages from Google, but if Google is successful with its appeal for dismissal, he would walk away with nothing. Google could easily settle this like Meta, but like we said, the company doesnt appear to be keen on doing so at the moment.

The problem with hallucinations

While it is unclear what prompted Googles AI to produce those hallucinations, it does highlight the importance of accepting that AI isnt always right. Sure, it might have access to a wealth of knowledge, but it doesnt always make it right.

Sometimes AI is trained on a set of data with a cutoff date. This means that if you ask it for new information after that date, it might get it wrong. Plus, AI almost never admits that its wrong. In fact, if you check the AI subreddits, youll find a lot of examples of AI models gaslighting users.

We can only hope that with time and as the technology improves, AI will become smarter. But until then, never take an AIs word as gospel. Just be sure to double-check everything.
Xizang enhances weather forecasting, public warning capabilities

Xinhua) 09:24, November 19, 2025

LHASA, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region has significantly modernized its meteorological infrastructure over the past six decades, greatly enhancing weather forecasting and public warning capabilities, according to the local meteorological administration on Tuesday.

The number of surface weather stations in Xizang has increased from just 23 in 1965 to 1,284 by 2025, said Xiang Yuyi, an official from the regional meteorological administration. The region has built a total of 33 weather radars, and received data from 20 satellites, which play a crucial role in monitoring and predicting extreme weather events.

Currently, the accuracy rate for general rain or shine forecasts stands at 81.64 percent. For snowstorm warnings, alerts can be issued up to five hours in advance with an accuracy rate of 88.7 percent.

The lead time for sudden-onset weather disaster warnings, such as those for earthquakes and mudslides, has been extended to 39 minutes, enabling people in threatened areas to evacuate to safety.

The region is also expanding the coverage of weather alerts to reach more people through digital platforms, mobile messages, television and radio broadcasts.

Given Xizang's high-altitude environment with strong ultraviolet (UV) radiation and lower oxygen levels, the local meteorological administration has introduced smart meteorological services. These services provide information such as UV intensity, daily average relative oxygen levels and human comfort indices to help residents and tourists better adapt to local conditions, according to Xiang.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
November 19, 2025: The Mail capital Bamako is suffering rampant paranoia. There are frequent disruptions in the availability of electrical power. Households and businesses are accustomed to some outages, but it's recently been worse. Blackouts are more common because Islamic terrorists block highways and trucks bring fuel to Bamako. Whats left of the Mail army is escorting fuel trucks to the capital. This year the fuel blockade was constant and Mali was falling apart and headed towards becoming a Failed State. That means Mail ceases to exist as a unified nation. On October 28 the U.S. embassy in Bamako called on all United States citizens to immediately leave Mali. France has also ordered its citizens to leave. The African Union is calling for immediate efforts to aid Mail before it disappears as a nation. The main problem is Islamic terrorists who are seeking to take control of the country and turn it into an Islamic State. By the end of 2025, Mali is not likely to survive as an independent state.

Mali is still crippled by corruption and the resulting misrule. The most vocal critics are a handful of popular Islamic clerics. These men do not back Islamic terrorism but they do constantly call for change and reform in the government. In a way, this helps Islamic terror groups because one of the claims these Islamic radicals make is that they are fighting for a more just government. This is done on purpose to encourage angry young men to choose Islamic terrorism as a means to reform the government. Al Qaeda has long taken advantage of this. That led to more violent and ambitious Islamic terror groups in Africa. In 2013 ISIL /Islamic State in Iraq and the Levant showed up in Syria and Iraq and that hyper-violent Islamic terrorist movement soon became an international attraction for Islamic radicals who thought their current Islamic terror group was not sufficiently extreme. ISIL trained new members from all over the world and many of these hyper-fanatics returned home to organize a local province of ISIL.

By 2018 that resulted in two such provinces in central Africa. The smaller one was ISGS/Islamic State in Greater Sahara, which showed up in 2018. ISGS is currently active in Mali, Burkina Faso and Niger. The other, slightly older and larger, ISIL province was ISWAP/Islamic State West Africa Province. ISWAP was actually a faction of the Nigerian Boko Haram Islamic terrorists who had been around since 2004. ISWAP personnel are mostly in northeastern Nigeria as well as smaller numbers in Chad, Niger and northern Cameroon. ISGS and ISWAP do not appear to work together except when it comes to Internet media activities, where ISWAP will mention ISGS accomplishments. Lately, ISWAP announcements rarely mention ISGS and attributes attacks in ISGS territory as the work of ISWAP. It is unclear what this means because there has been no announcement of any merger. The operating areas of ISGS and ISWAP are about 2,000 kilometers from each other. Another factor is the frequent cooperation between al Qaeda and ISIL groups i

ISIL does not have effective central authority at the moment with the senior leadership still dispersed and on the run from recent defeats in eastern Syria and western Iraq. It is often difficult, at first, to determine which faction of Boko Haram made an attack. Ultimately one of the factions will take credit. ISWAP is usually quicker to do so and has a much more efficient media operation than most Africa based Islamic terror groups. ISWAP is also finding that there is a downside to using ISIL techniques. More Western nations are willing to help, or at least coordinate existing counterterrorism in the region from Somalia to Mali and the Atlantic coast. There are smaller ISIL factions in northern Somalia, southern Libya and eastern Algeria. These groups were once larger but have suffered heavy losses from local and/or international counter-terrorism efforts. In late 2019 ISGS and ISWAP were the two most active ISIL factions in Africa.

JNIM/Jamaah Nusrah al Islam wal Muslimin, or Group for the support of Islam and Moslems, is an al Qaeda coalition formed in early 2017 to consolidate the many separate Islamic terror groups in Mali. In part, this was a reaction to the growing threat from ISIL, which is hostile to everyone who is not ISIL and will attack or recruit from the JNIM members like AQIM/Al Qaeda in the Islamic Maghreb, Ansar Dine, FLM and several other smaller groups. Another reason for the merger was to make it easier to pool resources, especially information and practical advice, and coordinate with other Islamic terror groups in the region. This reduces friction and destructive feuding. Making a coalition like this work is always difficult, especially considering the importance of ethnic differences, notably tribal. The FLM is of the Fulani tribe while the other groups are largely Tuareg or Arab and some have a lot of foreigners. Note that JNIM did not absorb all of AQIM groups in the area, just local groups that had long been i

Recently ISIL groups have been the most active in carrying out major attacks. JNIM is still around and mainly taking care of business.

Back in 2012 the UN authorized a military operation in northern Mali to remove al Qaeda and other Islamic radical groups, but only if the African troops assigned to the task are made ready. The United States and EU/European Union planned to support the ECOWAS intervention force with cash, weapons, transportation, and technical services like mine clearing. The U.S. and EU would not commit their own combat troops to the operation. ECOWAS/Economic Community of West African States had offered an intervention force but the UN pointed out that these troops were not ready for a campaign in the northern Mali desert. The U.S. and EU offered trainers to get the African troops ready for the campaign, which consisted of capturing half a dozen cities and large towns where the Islamic radicals were the strongest. The United States demanded a stable government in southern Mali first but later changed its mind. The U.S. still wanted the Mali military purged of the mutinous officers who took over the government months earlier . These officers gave up power but remained in control of the military. There were supposed to be new elections, but these had not been held yet. The U.S. backed off on this demand because it wasn't likely to be met any time soon.

The problem with the Mali Army has to do with politics. Most of the troops and officers got their jobs as political favors. It was all about patronage, not preparedness for combat. The few units that were combat ready were disbanded after the earlier coup. This was common in many parts of the world, especially Africa. The Mali troops were more about paychecks than military professionalism. Any plan for invading the north relegated the Mali troops to guard duty in the south. The U.S. would still like the Mali military to turn pro but that is a local political issue that was not quickly or easily resolved.

Meanwhile, Islamic radical rule in the north was becoming increasingly intrusive and brutal. People were being executed and there were a growing number of raids into markets, shops, and even homes looking for forbidden items like tobacco, alcohol, video or music recordings, religious amulets, and other items forbidden by Islamic conservatives. A girl was given sixty lashes in a public whipping as punishment for speaking to men she was not related to.

The Islamic radicals were increasing their manpower by offering over a thousand dollars a month to local teenagers who would join. However, the teenagers were told that once they took the money they were in until they died or the threat of ECOWAS intervention went away. In a part of the world where family income is usually less than a thousand dollars a year, getting more than that each month was enormously attractive. The Islamic radicals assigned hard core members of their organization to supervise the young recruits and beat or kill any who resisted or tried to desert. This approach worked elsewhere in Africa and the world. The Islamic radicals can afford all this because al Qaeda has millions in cash on hand from drug smuggling operations and ransoms or from kidnapped Europeans.
A 2.4 million package of support has been announced for victims and survivors of child sexual exploitation in London.

Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan said the money would directly fund new independent sex violence advocates and expand counselling provision.

Last month, the Metropolitan Police said they were re-examine 9,000 cases of child exploitation in London over the past 15 years.

In a statement, the force said many of them did not fit the common understanding of grooming gang offending and include cases within families, peer-on-peer abuse and exploitation within institutional settings.

The development came after a Standard investigation uncovered cases of vulnerable young girls from across London who reported allegations of rape from multiple men but saw inadequate police action.

Sir Sadiq said the 2.4 million would bolster specialist support, including therapeutic interventions for children and adult survivors.

He added: Any individuals, groups or grooming gangs exploiting children for sex are utterly abhorrent and I want justice for every single victim of these horrific crimes.

These children have not only suffered terrible abuse at the hands of the perpetrators but have been woefully let down by the authorities meant to protect them from harm.

Since taking office, I have led efforts to strengthen the protection of children from exploitation and harm in all its forms in London, including grooming gangs.

I have asked the Met to leave no stone unturned to secure justice for the victims of these horrific crimes. 

Susan Hall, the Conservative London Assembly leader, last week accused Sir Sadiq of taking the mickey out of grooming gang victims after previously saying that there is no indication of them operating in the capital.

Susan Hall accused the mayor of taking the mickey out of grooming gang victims (PA Wire)

On Wednesday, she said she was glad the issue had Sir Sadiqs focus, but said the funding seemed little more than the mayor trying to sanitise his image.

Hall added: City Hall Conservatives had a fully-costed proposal for a 4.5 million inquiry in London into this heinous abuse - the mayor coughing up 2 million after months of trying to avoid talking about it just rings hollow.

Commander Clair Kelland, the Mets public protection lead, said: The Met takes all allegations of child sexual abuse and exploitation extremely seriously. Thats why we are reviewing historic cases which cover online, intrafamilial, institutional, and peer-on-peer abuse cases as well as those characterised as grooming gangs.

We have significantly strengthened our approach to identifying and investigating all forms of child sexual exploitation since 2022. This work has already led to a threefold increase in solved cases over the past year, with 134 additional suspects charged.

Weve expanded specialist teams and rolled out training to more than 11,000 officers on recognising CSE and 23,000 on trauma-informed communication. These changes are making a real difference, with positive outcomes for victims rising by 6.2 per cent. Our commitment is clear: to safeguard victims, bring offenders to justice, and ensure every child is protected.

Claire Waxman OBE, London Victims Commissioner, said: I welcome this new 2.4m fund from the Mayor which puts victims and survivors first. It will directly fund new Independent Sexual Violence Advocates and the vital work they do, alongside therapeutic care for victims and survivors of all ages who have experienced any form of sexual abuse.

The national review and reinvestigations must mark a turning point in the quality and consistency of police work. But alongside that, its vital we enhance the provision of specialist support for survivors  as we are doing in London - so all those who have been impacted can come forward and receive the help, care and attention they deserve.
Alan Carrs Traitors triumph, Katy Perrys trip to space and Taylor Swifts engagement to Travis Kelce are among the 2025 events to get the comic treatment in a special edition of the Beano.

Beanofy Unwrapped, a special eight-page pull-out in this weeks Beano, will also show Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Sir Keir Starmer blasting off into space on a doomed mission, joined by a miniature JD Vance dressed as a Labubu, a toy that has been a viral phenomenon.

Donald Trump is among those featured (Beano/PA)

The politicians and billionaires are forced to abandon ship as it heads to Mars after it is hijacked by comic staples the Bash Street Kids.

The comic ends with the Bash Street Kids saving the day and restoring order in Beanotown.

Dennis the Menace features in the special edition (Beano/PA)

Also featured inside, Dennis the Menace accidentally activates experimental tech that unleashes holograms of the years biggest moments and personalities into Beanotown.

There is a battle of the bands between Oasis, Swift and Coldplay  the years biggest touring acts  before Jack Black is pelted with popcorn during a mutant chicken racing event inspired by the Minecraft movie.

Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Jeff Bezos and Sir Keir Starmer blast off into space in the comic (Beano/PA)

Other celebrity cameos include Carr and Cat Burns from The Celebrity Traitors, Perry in a Blue Origin spacesuit, and Wicked stars Cynthia Erivo and Ariana Grande.

Mike Stirling, director of mischief at Beano, said: With Beanofy Unwrapped, kids get the final word on 2025.

The Celebrity Traitors stars Alan Carr and Cat Burns (Beano/PA)

All the bad, sad or boring bits are banished, and 2025s main characters are Beanofied into the funniest versions of themselves.

There are even some politicians, to remind groan-ups that thinking like a kid can make everything funny. Weve packed it with laughter, mischief and the kind of creativity only kids could bring, for families to enjoy together.

The comic is on sale now (Beano/PA)

Beanofy Unwrapped, the special eight-page pull-out in this weeks Beano, is on sale from today.
Ricardo Paez and his wife have lived a quiet life outside Miami for over a decade. He works in distribution; she is an accountant. Together they take care of a 9-year-old adopted dog they named Millie.

Paez, though, is not like most of his neighbors in Pembroke Pines, a suburb lush with palm trees and littered with golf courses. The 66-year-old Venezuelan native is in the U.S. on a protected status  or at least he thought it was protected.

But after a recent check-in with ICE, the familys American dream has turned into an unending nightmare.

On Halloween, Paez was handcuffed and transported to the Krome Detention Center, a Cold War-era military base turned immigration facility on the edge of the Florida Everglades. Weeks later, he remains there, trapped in legal limbo and with a potentially life-threatening heart ailment that saw him rushed to a hospital.

His wife, while tirelessly fighting for his release, is consumed by worry.

Ricardo Paez, 66, fled Venezuela after being kidnapped. Now, after coming to the U.S. legally, he's been detained by ICE in Florida, he faces an uncertain future, his family said. (Provided by Paez's family)

We have 40 years of marriage, his wife, who asked not to be named, told The Independent.

If something happens to his health, or if he is deported to I dont know what country  I feel so terrified.

His detention highlights a shift in how the government is treating individuals granted withholding of removal  a legal protection offered to immigrants deemed at risk of violence in their home countries.

In the past, people with this status were largely allowed to remain living and working in the U.S. But under President Donald Trump  who pledged to carry out the largest deportation program in American history  the government has targeted them for removal and sought out third countries as final destinations, according to immigration law experts.

We are applying the law as written, Tricia McLaughlin, a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson, told The Independent. If a judge finds an illegal alien has no right to be in this country, we are going to remove them. Period.

She said Paez overstayed his visa and has a final order of removal from a federal judge.

An ICE spokesperson did not respond to questions from The Independent about Paez, stating that medical questions take a bit longer to research. This account is based on interviews with Paezs family and legal documents they provided.

Managed to escape kidnapping

Born in Caracas in 1959, Paez spent his early years leading a successful Venezuelan construction firm with his brother-in-law, Fernando Mesquida.

He was the best partner that I ever hadhes a workaholic, Mesquida, who also lives in Florida, told The Independent.

Following Hugo Chavezs election in 1999, Paez grew increasingly outspoken against the government, which was criticized for eroding democracy and silencing opposition. He eventually joined the Christian Democratic Party, known as COPEI.

Paez pictured with a folder full of documents ahead of his October 31 meeting with ICE officials (Provided by Paez's family)

He was one of the youngest leaders in Venezuela who was politically active against Chavez, his wife, 68, said.

At one point, perhaps because of his antiestablishment links, Paez was kidnapped. He managed to escape, Mesquida said, noting that abductions were not entirely uncommon.

Fleeing persecution in Venezuela, Paez and his wife, who worked as a journalist, moved to Mexico in 2010 and later settled in Florida in 2012. They entered the country legally on 10-year visas.

The pair slowly began building a life together in Pembroke Pines. Paez found work as an operations manager at a South Florida distribution firm, which described him in a letter as an exemplary employee. He spent his down time reading novels and obsessing over Formula 1 racing.

Extremely rare case

Before their visas expired in 2015, the pair applied for asylum, Mesquida said. Their claims were denied.

But both were granted withholding of removal orders by an immigration judge in 2014, who determined it was not safe for them to return to Venezuela.

To win withholding of removal under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a person must prove that it is more likely than not that they would be persecuted in a country based on their race, religion, nationality, membership in a particular social group, or political opinion, Elora Mukherjee, an immigration law professor at Columbia Law School, told The Independent. It is a very challenging standard to meet.

Its a precarious status, though.

Paez was detained by ICE on October 31 and transported to the Krome Detention Center on the edge of the Everglades. He's been held there in legal limbo for weeks. (Provided by Paez's family)

It offers no path to permanent residency and it requires recipients to check in with ICE at least once per year. It also authorizes deportation to a third country, Muzaffar Chishti, a senior fellow at the Migration Policy Institute, explained to The Independent.

But, before this administration, it was extremely rare to deport people who had withholding, Chishti said.

Of the few who were removed, most were charged with criminal offenses, Mukherjee added.

In 2017, for example, only 1.6 percent of the 1,274 people granted withholding of removal orders were deported to a third country, according to the American Immigration Council.

But, things changed when Trump returned to office. In February, ICE issued a new directive encouraging officers to evaluate immigrants with withholding removal orders to determine the viability of removal to a third country.

It may be unreasonable, but its not illegal, Chishti said.

An aerial view of the Krome Detention Center in Florida (Getty Images)

Paez's ICE compliance record, showing check-ins from 2015 to 2025 (Provided by Paez's family)

The administration has since negotiated deportation agreements with multiple countries  including Panama, Costa Rica and El Salvador  paving the way for detained migrants to be sent to far-flung nations where they may have no ties or connections.

In 2025, at least several people with withholding removal orders have been detained by ICE, including a 52-year-old Iranian immigrant in Maryland.

It messed with his heart

As the sun rose on the last day of October, Paez stepped into a small office in Miramar for his annual appointment with ICE. After 10 years of these check-ins, he knew the drill.

He presented his ICE officer with proof of his law-abiding life in Florida: copies of his passport, tax filings, work authorization and his withholding of removal order.

But, the paperwork he had long relied on was suddenly deemed inadequate.

That doesnt work anymore, the officer told him. Hours later, he was whisked away to the Krome Detention Center.

When he first entered the secluded compound, Paez struggled to adjust to his confinement. He was really anxious and refused to eat, Mesquida said.

The facilitys conditions didnt help, he said, noting that Paez shares a living space with dozens of other detainees and that the lights are kept on around the clock. Still, he said the guards treat him well and refer to him as grandpa.

Accusations of overcrowding and substandard living conditions have long dogged Krome. In April, it swelled to nearly three times its 600-person capacity. And in June, a detainee died after being hospitalized, becoming the third death linked to the facility this year. The same month, a group of detainees assembled on the grounds to create a human SOS sign.

Paezs family endured another scare on November 10 when they lost communication with him after he didnt show up for his regular evening phone call.

Paez lives in Pembroke Pines, Florida, with his wife and and 9-year-old dog Millie. (Provided by Paez's family)

We found out he was in the hospital. He blacked out, Mesquida said. It looked like there was some kind of fight, and Ricardo was really anxious. It messed with his heart.

Its unclear what exactly happened as the family has not received a medical report confirming a diagnosis. Mesquida suggested he may have had a heart attack, adding that healthcare providers regularly administered anticoagulants.

Paezs wife noted that he suffers from emphysema and sleeps with a CPAP machine.

Three days later, Paez was returned to Krome at midnight chained hand and foot, his wife said. ICE records indicate he remains in custody as of November 19.

He now faces a future shrouded in uncertainty.

Its not clear whether he will be set free, kept in detention or thrust into the unknown of a far-off country. Hoping to ensure the former, his family has frantically made calls and written letters to attorneys, state officials and even Trump himself. But so far, theyve had no luck.

The lawyers say theres nothing that we can do, Mesquida said. But, theyre not supposed to deport him. He came to the country legally. He went to every single ICE presentation. He never even got a parking ticket.

As the days tick by, Paezs wife endures mounting worry. Its made worse by the recent loss of her job  which came on the same day her husband was detained.

At home, one of her sole comforts is the couples 9-year-old dog, Millie, who often waits by the door for the man who cared for her since she was small.

He should be there, Mesquida said. Were talking about a 66-year-old with emphysema. We know that it could be a mistake, but this mistake is taking too long.
Picture-perfect beaches are Bali's primary calling card for tourists (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Bali is moving forward with plans to ensure all private beaches remain accessible to the public.

Concern is growing over commercial development on the Indonesian island that is making it increasingly difficult for local people to access beaches, which are used important religious ceremonies.

Governor I Wayan Kostor submitted draft legislation on beach and shoreline protection to the Bali Regional Legislative Council (DPRD) on 17 November to ensure that public access to the islands beaches is protected.

Mr Koster said Balis beaches are highly important for local communities as sites for religious ceremonies, as well as social spaces.

According to the local press, the governor criticised commercial operations for restricting access to shorelines across the island.

Access to the beach for Segara Kerthi or Pakelem [religious] ceremonies is becoming increasingly limited, he said.

Some hotel and villa operators are blocking public access, prohibiting residents from performing religious activities or carrying out inappropriate activities on the shoreline during important ceremonies.

Mr Koster said the new regulation aims to restore Balis beaches to their original purpose and prevent tourist operations from imposing illegal restrictions.

Its as if those who build hotels or villas think they own the beach and the sea, he added.

They dictate what people can and cannot do, even though they only own land near the shore, not the beach or the ocean itself.

Mr Koster stated that the Balinese government intends to debate the proposed legislation swiftly, with the aim of passing it before the end of 2025.

The 2016 Presidential Regulation on shoreline boundaries states that beaches  defined as land along the shoreline extending at least 100m inland from the highest tide line  are public spaces belonging to the state and cannot be privatised.

Despite this, many luxury hotels and villas in popular tourist destinations have claimed adjoining beaches are private and attempted to restrict access to local people.

In recent years, there have been numerous instances of local people and tourists being ejected from beaches by hotel management for alleged trespassing.

Read more: The major holiday hotspots cracking down on overtourism
The designer of next years Brit Awards trophy has said he is proud to have designed the gong for the awards ceremony in his home city of Manchester.

Designer Matthew Williamson has been inspired by his Manchester roots and the golden honey of the citys worker bee mascot for the trophy, which features an amber figure atop a globe, representing the worldwide reach of British music.

Speaking about being chosen to design the award, which will be given out at the Co-Op Live venue on February 28, Williamson told the PA news agency: It means a huge amount, personally, it means a lot, professionally, it means a lot.

The 2026 Brit Awards trophy designed by Williamson (Brit Awards)

I think overall, Im just really honoured to be in this position, I feel its quite a weighty project, and Im fully aware of the designers that have gone before me, these icons of design, so Im carrying quite a sort of heavy torch, so to speak, but very proud.

Personally, Im from Manchester, I love everything about the city, so it has an extra resonance, because its going to be here, its a real milestone moment.

Williamson, who has worked in fashion, home and lifestyle design, said his family watched the awards ceremony every year when he was growing up.

The 54-year-old added: I remember watching it and feeling that I probably shouldnt be watching it, so I was pretty young.

I remember it being a little bit spicy at times, and my parents were quite liberal parents, but it was a little past the watershed and all of that, so I dont know, (I was watching it) early probably (as a) teenager, slightly earlier.

That was many moons ago, but I still watch it now, and Im going to be watching it with my daughter next year, so it feels like a full circle moment in so many ways.

Williamson, who saw one of his runway designs incorporated into the video for Princes 2007 single Chelsea Rodgers, said he was mindful to respect the trophys original design when creating its new version.

He added: There was a certain understanding that this is the trophy, we want to keep the silhouette, the structure, so they dont want us to turn it into a different form, because then it wouldnt be a Brit Award.

I think that was central to the project, respect whats there, and be like the Oscars, you kind of want to see that mask, you dont really want to see something else.

The 2026 Brit Awards ceremony will be the first time the event has been held outside of London.

Its trophy has previously been designed by the likes of Dame Vivienne Westwood, Sir Peter Blake and Dame Tracey Emin.
Even if the Ukraine war is brought to an end, the threat from Russia wont ebb away - Contributor/Getty Images

Is Britain safe from Russia? That was the question repeatedly aimed at both Defence Secretary John Healey and his junior, Luke Pollard, this morning during their various media appearances.

If their vague, obfuscating responses  We are safe, but we are facing new threats; a new era of threat which demands a new era of defence, an era of hard power  dont inspire you with confidence, then you are far from alone.

The truth is Britain has been doing a terrible job at updating and preparing the country for the still-looming threat that Russia poses. Healey may insist that Labour is the party of defence, but this is the same minister who six months ago said he expected Britain to be spending just 3 per cent of GDP on defence by 2034  a whole 2 per cent lower than the target set by Nato for the following year.

Compared to Germany, whose chancellor Friedrich Merz introduced budget reforms earlier this year that will allow Berlin to reach 3.5 per cent of GDP on defence spending by 2029, this is embarrassing.

Healeys announcement today that 13 new munitions factories will be built in Britain, alongside the two drone factories being opened this week, is a good start.

But at the same time, the British Armed Forces are in a recruitment crisis, with nearly 9,000 vacancies across the Army, Navy and Air Force  and little in the way of a plan for how to fix this problem.

The Government has also been doing a sluggish job at preparing Britons for the possibility of a more direct confrontation with Russia. The fact that even todays appearance by Healey  billed on defence, but in reality yet another attempt to pitch-roll next weeks Budget  is one of a handful of press conferences he has done since Labour came to power is a case in point.

John Healeys speech focused on how the defence industry is contributing to economic growth - Stefan Rousseau - WPA Pool/Getty Images

A survey from March revealed that almost half of Britons claim there are no circumstances where they would be willing to take up arms for the country: who can blame them if the Government cant  or wont  communicate the scale of the danger that might be coming our way?

Donald Trump may insist he can bring an end to the Ukraine war by negotiating with Vladimir Putin, but even if he does, the threat from Russia wont ebb away.

In any case, in the here and now, the security situation on the ground in Europe  over 4,000 miles away from the comfort of the White House  paints a very different picture.

Healey opened his speech by revealing that a Russian spy ship known as the Yantar is floating in international waters just off the Scottish coast and accused the vessel of directing lasers at the RAF planes sent to monitor it. He also revealed that there had been 90,000 cyber attacks on the British defence system in the last year alone.

These revelations come hot on the heels of a sabotage incident in Poland in which a portion of its railway close to the Ukrainian border was blown up over the weekend. The Polish prime minister Donald Tusk pointed the finger at the Russian intelligence services.

The past few months have also seen an alarming increase in Russian drone incursions right across Nato territory. Back in London, Mays arson attacks on Keir Starmers home are also suspected to have been a Russian sabotage operation.

Addressing Putin directly this morning, Healey said, We see you, we know what youre doing, and if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready. But are we? Hopefully Healeys words wont be put to the test just yet.

Lisa Haseldine is The Spectators Online Commissioning Editor  Foreign Affairs
A new wind record has been set for Britain, with enough electricity generated from turbines to power 22 million homes, the system operator has said.

The record of 22,711 megawatts (MW) set at 7.30pm on November 11 beats the previous high for wind power generation of 22,253 MW set on December 18 2024, the National Energy System Operator (Neso) said.

At the time, as the country experienced windy conditions, particularly in the north of England and Scotland, wind was providing 43.6% of Great Britains electricity, enough to keep around three quarters of British homes powered, Neso said.

A further 12.1% of generation was coming from embedded wind which supplies power directly to local distribution networks rather than the high voltage transmission network, bringing the overall share from wind to 55.7%.

At the time the record was set, gas was providing 12.5% of generation, while 11.3% was coming from interconnectors with other countries, 8% from nuclear, 8% from biomass, 1.4% from hydro and 1.1% from storage.

Neso said Britain could hit another milestone in the months ahead by running the grid for a period entirely with zero carbon power, renewables and nuclear.

Kayte ONeill, chief operating officer at Neso, said: This is a world-beating record, showing that our national grid can run safely and securely on large quantities of renewables generated right here in Britain.

Weve come on leaps and bounds in wind generation in recent years. It really shows what is possible, and I look forward to seeing if we can hit another clean energy milestone in the months ahead: running Britains electricity grid entirely zero carbon.

Wind power has become the largest source of electricity generation for the UK, helping reduce energy costs and fossil fuel use, Neso said.

The Government has set out its clean power mission to generate almost all of the UKs electricity from low carbon sources by 2030, with a push to build more new wind farms, solar arrays and other clean energy technology.

Industry body RenewableUKs deputy chief executive, Jane Cooper, said: On a cold, dark November evening, wind was generating enough electricity to power 80% of British homes when we needed it most.

This new record high period is another tangible example of wind taking its place at the heart of our clean energy system, as we transition away from the volatile prices of fossil fuels which caused the energy crisis.

She urged the Government to strengthen the UKs energy security even further by being more ambitious on the amount of capacity they will support in the next round of auctions, which will hand out contracts for new wind farms to receive an agreed price for the power they generate.

This will enable us to create tens of thousands of new jobs, support the growth of supply chain companies and attract billions in private investment to the UK, as well as maintaining our place as a global leader in offshore wind, she said.
Jimmy Frost is making the most of Bryony Frosts brief return to the UK, having persuaded his daughter to ride for him at Wincanton on Thursday.

Frost has been a rare visitor since relocating to become retained rider for leading owners Simon Munir and Isaac Souedes French string last year and before riding at Ascot on Friday, will first head to one of her old local haunts for a quickfire family reunion.

Shes going to ride a filly for me in the bumper, then go to Ascot on Friday, so shes got a nice couple of days and because she was riding at Ascot I got her to come back a little earlier for me, said Frost, who won the Grand National aboard Little Polveir in 1989.

Jimmy Frost congratulates Bryony Frost after winning at Exeter last year (David Davies/PA)

Its always great when she can ride for me and its nice from a family view when we can all be together and catch up with her. Win, lose or draw itll be good fun and we can all spend a bit of time with her.

Frost provided a memorable moment alongside her father on one of her forays to Britain last season, when guiding Asian Spice to a popular triumph at Exeter on Haldon Gold Cup Day.

Spectators at Wincanton will have to wait till the very end of the card to see Frost in action this time around, when Detroit Bay debuts in the Download The PricedUp App Junior National Hunt Flat Race.

Bryony Frost is now primarily based in France (Peter Byrne/PA)

But Frost senior is hopeful of a good showing from his newcomer ahead of the VIP visiting jockey heading to Ascot to ride Inner Success for one of her French supporters Mickeal Seror and The Boola Boss for Rebecca Curtis.

Shes popular with the crowd and I know everyone enjoys seeing her, continued Frost.

Detroit Bay seems quite a nice filly so hopefully she does us proud, she certainly shows a bit of foot at home so hopefully she runs well.

Well try to get her back a bit more if we can, but itll be great to have her for at least Thursday afternoon.
by Mindy Clegg

Many scholars of the hard sciences have recently descended into an understandable panic over the anti-intellectual actions of the current destructive regime in the White House. The Trump administration has begun to dismantle the federal funding system that benefited academia since the Cold War. Many critics see this as an unprecedented and aggressive intervention by the state into academia in order to curtail academic freedom, a standard expectation of the modern university system. The establishment of facts about the world via testable and repeatable hypothesis helped shape western society for centuries now.

Over the course of the 20th century, scientific research incubated in academia became a key driver of many changes (good and bad) in our society. Academia became the linchpin of a network of public-private partnerships that led to these improvements, especially during the Cold War. Without university-level research it seems unlikely that wed have our regime of vaccinations that has saved millions of lives. Nor would we have the modern computing industry. From the point of view of many academic scientists, it took only a single, massively destructive administration to send the whole network into a death spiral. How could the work of building a system of knowledge over 150 or so years come tumbling down over a handful of years? The reality is that the process of undermining the academy is not just a byproduct of the Trump era. It did not begin with this current attack on science. Rather, the center and far right have long targeted the the humanities and social (or soft) sciences.

In recent years, education has been shifting towards centering STEM fields which stands for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. Sometimes this includes the social sciences and humanities but thats hotly debated. The term gained traction in 1990s. Placing STEM at the center of education became a rallying cry among those wanting to keep a university education inline with a changing economy after the Cold War. Put differently, they sought to refocus sciences to better serve the needs of capital in the neoliberal economy. By that time, the computing industry was growing and computer science departments were expanding to accommodate the need. Other fields such as engineering and other technologies got a boost as well.

Meanwhile, the humanities and soft sciences also changed. A diverse group of students demanded the establishment of departments that reflected their own experiences in their world. Their protests gave rise to African American studies, Gender studies, and Queer studies programs among other new fields of study. But some conservatives felt alienated as people of color, women, and queer people became more represented in the faculty. At the same time, critical turns such as post-modernism and post-colonial studies ushered in a wave of more dense and difficult works that appeared less accessible to the general public. It became easier for those forces already hostile to diversification of the academy to paint these fields as elitist and out of touch with real Americans (whatever that means). During this time, public universities were still growing across both the sciences and humanities. But neoliberalism began to change the the objectives of the university to focus more centrally on future job prospects rather than on intellectual inquiry or general research for the betterment of society. Still, at that point, most people outside of a radical fringe on the right were not seeking the destruction of entire fields of study. In fact, most outside of the academy were not necessarily aware of these new fields in the 1990s. But today we are seeing respected, pioneering scholars under attack as well as the fields that they pioneered. What changed?

First, 2008 saw an economic crisis. The collapse of the housing market due to speculating on subprime mortgages hurt many working class communities. This meant fewer people could afford to go to even a community college. In some cases, people in working class communities put themselves or their families into debt to get a college education. On top of that, the burden of supporting our public universities fell more to state governments feeling the impact from the general economic malaise. Corporate interests rushed into to fill the economic gap in the sciences. Fields like computing, engineering, and chemistry were seen as critical to job creation, especially in the face of the ongoing economic tailspin. Not so much for the humanities and soft sciences. These were not seen as being directly practical in the same way that they had been during the Cold War, where area studies were in high demand. Meanwhile, in the realm of politics, the political right had been creeping ever further right since the 1970s. Modern organizations like the far right Turning Point USA grew our of a longer movement on the far right fringe, who bemoaned Americas increasing diversity and ever expanding democracy. In the 1970s, organizations like the Moral Majority and the Heritage Foundation (which included members sympathetic to the far right John Birch Society) sought to bring together dispirit groups on the far right, especially the Christian right and the racist right. They married it with an anti-intellectualism masquerading as common sense and populism. Their first victory was the election of Ronald Reagan in 1980. However, the white and Christian supremacy were much more covert and still considered fringe. But they grew in influence on the centrist right who struggled to reach voters of color and women. But the hard right eventually found an effective avatar in Donald Trump after the administration of our first Black president Barack Obama. A public showman, Trump married performantive and real supremacist cruelty with that anti-intellectual impulse that attracted far right voters who had previously sat elections out. Brand and party loyalty did the rest. They ran on greater right wing control of academics (from K-12 to elite colleges) and a return to domination of these institutions by elite white men.

But pressure on the humanities also came from some of our own colleagues in other fields. Some in the hard sciences bought into the idea that their fields produced real knowledge, but they saw the liberal art, humanities, and the social sciences, as maybe something thats nice to have, but not critical to the production of human knowledge. As such, they might support eliminating phd degrees as a cost-saving measure across the university system. In a recent video essay, youtuber Shaun wrote a critical analysis of a recently released book by some high profile figures in the sciences called The War on Science edited by Lawrence Krauss (feel free to look it up, but I decline to provide a link, given the harmful attacks being made in the work, especially against vulnerable communities like trans peoplesee the video for details). The title would indicate a vigorous defense of the scientific worldview and academia in general. However, Shaun highlights how the real object of ire are other academic fields of study, not the people attacking the academy:

One example he highlights is the Sokal affair, which astrophysicist and youtuber Dr. Fatima has also discussed:

Both above videos describe this hoax and how it represented an internalized attack on academia. Briefly, a physics professor by the Alan Sokal sent a bullshit paper to a journal called Social Text which catered to cultural studies (not physics, Sokals actual field). He claimed it was intended to test the intellectual rigor of the journal to see if they would reject or accept a paper of obvious bullshit. It was published in 1996 as part of the journals Science Wars issue. They asked Sokal for revision and resubmission, but they eventually published the paper in good faith. It was an interdisciplinary gotcha meant to make those whose work sought to examine important issues such as bias in the development of science and academia since the 19th century look foolish. Given the very real problems caused by systemic racism, misogyny, homophobia, transphobia, and other forms of bigotry, figuring out how to correct for bias within various scientific fields, and the history of those bigotries, seems an important and necessary project. Its a bit of a head-scratcher that anyone would object to that.

This attack has come from within the humanities, too. Modernist (some of whom are historical materialists) and post-modernists tend to not agree on what is important to study and institutionalize. Some materialists have attacked identity politics and the fields associated with them such as Black or Africana studies, gender studies, Latinx studies, and among others. Many a materialist and/or Marxist roll their eyes at the esoteric postmodern turn in philosophy that emerged in the 1960s and 1970s and the shift to understanding that truth can often be precarious. Figures like Foucault, who once said he wanted to get rid of Marxism, are imagined to be in complete rejection of Marxist materialism. That view seems to be highly flattened. Yet, some materialists insists that identity politics, itself often grounded in economic structures as they relate to specific groups material experiences, merely ignore the real for something made up. We all would do good to remember that Marx was not a prophet but a social and historical theorist who rested his analysis on the identity of class. His works were not some variety of gospel, undisputed truth, but an argument about history, economics, and humanity. I suspect he expected others to agree, disagree, and debate his findings. Same with Foucault. Both followed along a tradition of dialectical debatenot a final answer, but an ongoing refining of our understanding of reality. If you are viewing Marxs or Foucaults (or any other scholars work looking at you, Zizek fanbois) work as immutable truth rather than a discussion on the truth or truths, you have missed the point. This is for several reasons. For one, philosophers of the past did not give us a totally accurate description of reality. Rather, they looked at the evidence available to them and formulated an argument about reality based on that evidence. They also understood that others would agree, disagree, and expand on their insights. But some assume their favorite scholar was a grand final arbiter of reality and that the read is merely a passive consumer of those insights rather than active participant in the discussion. This is why we should save academia from this ongoing right wing attack. Colleges and universities are places where people can both learn how to think as well as gain needed skills to forge a successful life. It is one set of institutions in American life (although hardly the only one) where new thinkers can develop new ideas about humanity that might lead to a better tomorrow. Of course, Id guess that most reading this would agree with me on that and would love to see the university system, not only saved, but improved and a place for all of us to learn and thrive.

I want to end with this thought: No one human will save us. No perfect Marxist avatar or post-modern bearded philosopher is going to ramble just the correct words to magically fix our reality. Rather we must spend our lives making change to the best of our ability and hope that those who come after pick up the torch. In a recent discussion between neoliberal Ezra Klein and writer Ta-Nahisi Coates, that very notion comes up:

Klein is white, wealthy, socially powerful, and an advocate for the centrist, neoliberal abundance movement. He seems utterly perplexed by Coates historically-grounded argument about the length of time it takes for making real change. Coates advocates for a view which rejects an end of history view. Rather, he views the world as an ongoing struggle of incremental improvement that connects people the past, present, and future in that ongoing struggle which we can all participate if we so choose. That is why we need the humanities, because it offers us evidence of possibilities for humanity, both good and bad. Even if Klein misses that larger point and believes we only need to think with the immediate events around us, we can take up Coates call to think historically and be active stewards of the present and future. If the humanities are under attack in part due to (real and perceived) failures, then we should be attentive to legitimate criticism. But we must make a strong defense of why these fields of study matter. Far too many people in these fields prefer to speak on the terms of neoliberalism, that these will make you a better candidate for a job. But maybe we just should make the argument that understanding history, society, and culture will make you a better, more thoughtful, and empathtic human being. That might make you a better citizen and employee as a byproduct, but you should not be shaped for the needs of the market only. I see no reason not to highlight that very important point and in fact, make it the central tent pole in an argument to save the humanities. One would hope that scholars who joined the right wing on their anti-intellectual attacks will shift their thinking and rally around our institutions and work to defend them.

***

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Less than a month after taking office, Japans prime minister Sanae Takaichi is facing her first foreign policy crisis  one that has seen has seen her implicitly threatened with graphic violence by a senior Chinese envoy.

Relations between the two East Asian economic giants have crashed in dramatic fashion after Ms Takaichi told her countrys parliament that Japan could come to Taiwans aid with battleships and the use of force if a Chinese attack on the island also threatened Tokyos interests.

While Japan has closely monitored president Xi Jinpings threats to reunite Taiwan with the Chinese mainland by force, if necessary  Japans nearest island to Taiwan is just 100km away and visible across the sea on a clear day  it has previously played down the idea of any involvement in a military conflict.

Ms Takaichis bullish departure from this policy angered Beijing, which urged its citizens not to travel to Japan in response, leading to the cancellation of almost 500,000 tourist visits in a matter of days. Japan has now also warned its own citizens to take precautions for their safety when visiting China.

But perhaps the most extreme reaction so far came from Chinas consul general in Osaka, who issued a graphic threat saying China has no choice but to cut off any dirty neck that intrudes into its affairs with Taiwan.

The crisis has already hurt share prices in Japanese companies that depend the most on the millions of Chinese nationals who visit every year, from travel to retail sectors. And while experts say the two countries ties are robust, what happens next could have serious implications for both economies.

So far a defiant Ms Takaichi has refused to retract her statement, only assuring a Japanese parliamentary committee that she would avoid talking about specific scenarios in the future.

Sanae Takaichi raises her hand to answer a question during a session of the House of Councillors Budget Committee at the National Diet in Tokyo (AFP via Getty Images)

The standoff leaves the two countries ties at their worst level since a 1972 joint statement affirming the foundations of their diplomatic relationship, experts say.

China took great exception to Takaichi's remarks and has threatened to go further than its existing retaliatory measures, says Allen Carlson, associate professor of government at Cornell University. The Japanese refused to retract the offending statements, but have made some efforts to deescalate the situation, albeit so far without mollifying Beijing. As a result, the two countries now stand on a knifes edge.

Mr Carlson, an expert on Chinese foreign policy, told The Independent that this spat underscores just how combustible the security situation in Asia is becoming, and how central Taiwan is in such a dynamic.

Behind the scenes, diplomats from the two countries held talks in Beijing on Tuesday aimed at finding a way out of the crisis. But much now depends on how Ms Takaichi frames the situation in public.

PM Takaichi is unlikely to retract her statements, but there is a chance that she might make an accommodating gesture to allow Beijing to climb down, said Philip Shetler-Jones, senior research fellow on IndoPacific security at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI).

He said the visit to Beijing by Masaaki Kanai, the Japanese foreign ministry official in charge of Asia and Oceania affairs, was a significant step towards de-escalation.

Japanese director-general of the foreign ministry's Asian and Oceanian affairs bureau Masaaki Kanai (L) and Chinese director-general of the department of Asian affairs Liu Jinsong (C) depart after a meeting at the foreign ministry in Beijing (AFP via Getty Images)

This would appear to suggest there is an ongoing process between the governments to seek a way to deal with the tension through diplomatic channels, rather than by signalling through punishment actions, such as the PRCs advice against travel to Japan and warnings to Chinese students in Japan, Mr Shetler-Jones said.

While the tourism sector has been badly hit, he said ties between Japan and China in areas like trade and investment are still mostly resilient, adding that it isnt the first time such rhetorical broadsides have been exchanged before fading away in a matter of months.

He suggests the current crisis might not be so easy to solve, however, due to Beijings particular sensitivities around the issue of Taiwan.

The dispute over Japans position on a Taiwan contingency has the potential to linger because Japan is in the process of updating its security strategy, deepening relations with South Korea, and exploring new capabilities and defence collaboration with the United States, all of which are unwelcome developments from Beijings point of view, Mr Shetler-Jones said.

Security personnel stand guard outside the foreign ministry in Beijing (AFP via Getty Images)

Luke de Pulford, the human rights campaigner and co-founder of the Inter-Parliamentary Alliance on China, argued Ms Takaichi could hardly be blamed for the crisis and should tough it out in the face of Chinese aggression.

Beijings bark is always worse than its bite, and their economic threats against other nations tend to hurt China more than anybody else. Its truly ludicrous that Beijing is trying to make out like they are the wronged party when their Consul General issued a violent threat towards Takaichi, he told The Independent.

If there is any damage done to diplomatic relations, it has more to do with the extreme and unjustifiable rhetoric of Chinas wolf warrior in Osaka, not Tokyos stance, he said.
Mount Semeru releases volcanic materials during an eruption in Lumajang, East Java (AP)

Civilians have run for safety after Indonesia's Semeru volcano erupted on Wednesday, sending a 54,000ft cloud of ash into the air.

Residents have been put on high alert on the island and urged to keep at least 2.5km away from the volcano to avoid health risks.

Semeru, more than 3,600 metres (12,000 feet) high, is one of Indonesia's nearly 130 active volcanoes. It is the highest mountain on the Indonesian island of Java. An eruption in 2021 caused the deaths of at least 57 people.

In a statement, Australias Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) warned local residents to stay within 500m of the riverbank along Besuk Kobokan to avoid being hit by an expansion of hot clouds and lava flows.

Indonesia straddles the "Pacific Ring of Fire", a highly seismically active zone, where different plates on the earths crust meet and create a large number of earthquakes and volcanoes.

The Center for Volcanology and Geological Hazard Mitigation (PVMBG) advised residents to avoid the southeastern sector, particularly along Besuk Kobokan within an eight-kilometer radius of the summit, according to local news agency Antara.

More to follow...
Contestants wear their national costumes for the scandal-hit Miss Universe pageant in Bangkok - Athit Perawongmetha/Reuters

Claude Makelele has quit the Miss Universe judging panel just days before the final amid allegations that the competition is rigged.

The former Chelsea midfielder and French international player said he was withdrawing from the eight-member panel due to unforeseen personal reasons.

His abrupt exit came hours after another juror, Omar Harfouch, a Lebanese-French musician, resigned from the panel, accusing the beauty pageant of being a charade that lacked transparency.

Harfouch claimed an impromptu jury had pre-selected finalists ahead of the competition, which is set to crown its 74th winner on Friday in Bangkok.

It is the latest controversy to embroil Miss Universe after an organiser appeared to call Miss Mexico dumb, sparking a mass walkout by the contestants.

Makelele, 52, who announced his resignation from the judging panel via Instagram, described it as a difficult decision.

Claude Makelele has withdrawn from the Miss Universe judging panel citing unforeseen personal reasons - Fifa/Carl Recine

I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence  values I have always championed throughout my career, he said.

I sincerely apologise to the organisation, the contestants, and everyone involved, and I hope to be able to contribute in the future under better circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support.

Harfouch claimed finalists had been pre-selected and that some members of the unofficial jury, who remained nameless, had personal relationships with some of the contestants.

An impromptu jury has been formed to select 30 finalists from among the 136 participating countries, without the presence of any of the real eight members of the jury, including me, Harfouch wrote in an Instagram post on Tuesday, adding that he had discovered this via social media.

The unofficial jury comprises individuals with a significant potential conflict of interest due to some personal relationships with some of the Miss Universe contestants, he claimed.

Omar Harfouch has accused the beauty pageant of being a charade that lacks transparency - Pascal Le Segretain/Getty

Harfouch did not elaborate on how this impromptu jury would function, or how it would override the official panels decision.

The Miss Universe Organisation rebuffed the 56-year-olds claims, insisting that no external group has been authorised to evaluate delegates or select finalists.

It suggested that he may have confused Miss Universes decision-making process with the Beyond the Crown programme: a social impact initiative that operates independently from the Miss Universe competition with a separate selection committee.

The Miss Universe Organisation announced the Beyond the Crown selection committee on Monday. In its statement on Tuesday, the organisation said that Harfouchs allegations had mischaracterised the programme.

Fatima Bosch, who believed she had been insulted by Nawat Itsaragrisil, represents Mexico in the Miss Universe pageant - Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/Shutterstock/Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/Shutterstock

Earlier this month, Nawat Itsaragrisil, the director of Miss Thailand, publicly berated Miss Mexico, Fatima Bosch, at a pre-pageant event for failing to post promotional content on her social media platforms.

Things became heated when he asked her to stand up and explain herself, even calling her dumb before threatening to call security.

The incident triggered a viral backlash after Ms Bosch and several other contestants stormed out of the event.

Mr Nawat later claimed that some of his words were misunderstood.

Even so, his comments sparked a stern rebuke from the Miss Universe Organisation, which has since sent a delegation of international executives to take over running the competition.

Danielle Latimer, Miss Great Britain, takes a tumble as she competes in the Miss Universe contest in Bangkok on Wednesday - Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/Shutterstock/Rungroj Yongrit/EPA/Shutterstock

Founded in 1952 by an American swimwear company, Miss Universe has grown into one of the worlds most-watched beauty contests, with competitors drawn from more than 130 countries.

The organisation has spent recent years attempting to project a modernised image, broadening eligibility and emphasising advocacy alongside glamour.

The rival Miss World contest faced its own problems earlier this year when Milla Magee, the reigning Miss England, withdrew alleging that participants were being treated as window dressing for sponsors rather than advocates for charitable causes.

Organisers rejected the claim, accusing Miss Magee of leaving because she believed she didnt stand a chance in the competition.

Meanwhile, in the United States, the Miss USA franchise  part of the Miss Universe umbrella  has been marred by legal disputes and accusations of mismanagement.
A mile-long plume of toxic cancer-linked chromium in New Mexico has spread, raising health concerns for tribal community members and questions about water safety.

The underground body of contaminated water, which has existed for decades and is the result of water coolant from a power plant, has now spread onto Pueblo de San Ildefonso  a Native community  for the first time.

Contamination levels of the heavy metal are exceeding state groundwater standards, the New Mexico Environment Department announced, with recent sampling showing levels of hexavalent chromium at 53 to 72.9 micrograms per liter  markedly over the 50 micrograms per liter standard.

Discovered in 2004, the chromium comes from beneath the U.S. Department of Energys Los Alamos National Laboratory, a central site to developing the first atomic bomb in World War II.

For nearly 20 years, from 1956 to 1972, workers flushed contaminated water from its non-nuclear power plant into Sandia Canyon, which borders the 1,900-mile-long Rio Grande River. The chromium was used as a way to prevent pipes from rusting in the plants cooling towers.

A map shows the area of the chromium plume near Los Alamos National Laboratory (New Mexico Environment Department)

Since then, state and Energy Department officials have worked to install a network of dozens of wells to determine the extent and nature of the plume, as well as a water treatment system to remove hexavalent chromium from the Sandia Canyon regional aquifer.

"These new results are conclusive evidence that the U.S. Department of Energy's efforts to contain the chromium plume have been inadequate," Director of Compliance and Enforcement Bruce Baizel said in a press release. "While drinking water supplies are safe for now, the Department of Energy must take immediate and definitive actions."

The Department of Energy told The Independent that it agrees with the Environment Department that the plume is not currently near any known public or private drinking water wells and is working with officials, the Office of the State Engineer and Pueblo de San Ildefonso to assess, monitor and remediate the plume.

The Environment Department said there was no imminent threat to drinking water on Pueblo de San Ildefonso or in Los Alamos County and that it is working with officials to recommend next steps.

Separately, it said the department is pursuing civil enforcement actions against the U.S. Department of Energy related to this matter.

In 2018, a proposal from Los Alamos said it would take around two years to control the plume within the Los Alamos boundary. But a plant to pump and treat the contaminated water and then inject it back into the plume was stopped in 2023, when increases in chromium were discovered in monitoring wells.

A graphic shows where a water treatment system was deployed to control the spread of the plume (Department of Energy)

An independent review recommended that partial treatment resume, and it did earlier this year.

But that is how it is believed the plume has spread, Environment Department Deputy Cabinet Secretary John Rhoderick told The Independent. He said that the Department of Energy had ceased injection following a Tuesday letter from the Environment Department.

Rhoderick said that the solution to the problem still remains the same: pumping and treating. But it needs to be done with strategic locations and much more aggressively.

Thats not something they say theyre seeing from the Department of Energy.

It has to be much more aggressive. It has to be a dedicated effort. Unfortunately, the Department of Energy has not prioritized this, he said.

Whatever happens next, Rhoderick said none of the water systems or wells in the surrounding communities of Pueblo de San Ildefonso, Los Alamos and White Rock have seen chromium contamination at this point.

The communities of Los Alamos and White Rock are home to nearly 20,000 people.

The Pueblo de San Ildefonso  known also as Where the water cuts through  is a federally recognized tribe that is home to around 750 people and consists of 39,000 acres, with a history dating back to 1300 A.D.

The plume remains around five miles from the neighboring Rio Grande, which also flows across Colorado and Texas and near the Santa Fe National Forest.

"We will be taking all action necessary to ensure cleanup and accountability for this contamination," Pueblo's governor Christopher Moquino said in a statement shared with KOAT 7. "No level of chromium above natural background levels in our water is acceptable to the Pueblo."

Long-term chromium exposure can increase the risk of cancer.

Inhaled hexavalent chromium can result in nose, windpipe and lung cancer, whereas oral exposure via drinking water or food may lead to an increased risk of stomach and digestive cancers, according to the Oregon Health Authority.

Sunrise in the San Ildefonso Pueblo, where a toxic chromium plume has spread (Getty Images)

The Environmental Protection Agency has a drinking water standard of 0.1 milligrams per liter per billion of total chromium, and all water systems are required to test for total chromium.

Potential implications for the health of the surrounding communities and their inhabitants remain unclear at this point  but New Mexico has a longstanding history of health impacts related to energy practices, including cancer cases tied to uranium mining. These impacts disproportionately affect native communities.

They also suffer frequent drought and water shortages, made worse by human-caused climate change. By the time a Class of 2024 high school graduate reaches retirement age, New Mexico will have 25 percent less water than the state does today, according to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

Water is so scarce and so precious in our state that to hear that the resource that we need for the future has been contaminated and weve known about this contamination for 20 years and its still migrating is just unacceptable, Rachel Conn, Deputy Director of New Mexico water conservation organization Amigos Bravos, told The Independent.

The news comes as the Environment Department and the New Mexico Department of Health warned residents of the northern Mora County about groundwater with high levels of chromium and nine other metals, some of which can damage the kidneys, skin, cardiovascular and nervous systems. The metals were potentially related to firefighting efforts during the 2022 Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire.

Recently, University of New Mexico research found levels of forever chemicals, or PFAS, at Holloman Lake were the highest concentrations recorded anywhere.

It is almost a nightmare the way things are going and its unfortunate, said Rhoderick. The really unfortunate piece is the common thread through all of it is its related to federal facilities or federal actions.
Unnecessary delays over an application to mine gold in Co Tyrone are harming Northern Irelands reputation, the US ambassador to the UK has warned.

In a speech in Belfast, Warren Stephens said a decision needed to be made over the Dalradian gold mine project fast, stating it could bring jobs and investment to the region.

In a strongly-worded address, the diplomat also said bureaucracy must not become a barrier to progress in Northern Ireland as he raised concerns about the price of energy and the speed of planning decisions.

He told the audience: You cannot expect a US company to make a major investment here if they cannot be certain when they will get an answer from planning authorities.

Mr Stephens, who was appointed ambassador by US President Donald Trump last year, was speaking at a Belfast Chamber dinner at Queens University Belfast.

He said that Northern Ireland is a region that punches above its weight.

But he added: Now, I must temper my optimism with caution, because we do have concerns.

As in the rest of the UK, energy prices here are too high to run an efficient and competitive industrialised economy.

That is inhibiting US investment and harming both businesses and taxpayers.

And while the United States is a longstanding friend of Northern Ireland and an advocate of its devolved Government  your achievements in recent years have been nothing short of remarkable  for the Northern Ireland Executive to deliver a globally competitive economy, from pharma to critical minerals, approvals must be quicker.

Bureaucracy must not become a barrier to progress.

Dalradians underground workings at the Curraghinalt Gold Project (Amanda MacDonald/Dalradian/PA)

Mr Stephens drew attention to the Dalradian gold mine application.

The company, which is supported by US investment, wants to develop an underground gold, silver and copper mine on the Curraghinalt site near Greencastle, where it has been working for 15 years.

It says the proposed underground mine could create and support up to 1,000 jobs and add five billion dollars (4.1 billion) to the Northern Ireland economy.

However, some opponents have raised concerns about the impact of the proposed mine on the environment and health.

A planning application was submitted in 2107 and a Planning Appeals Commission (PAC) inquiry was ordered by then infrastructure minister Nichola Mallon in 2020.

The probe opened for public hearings in Omagh earlier this year, but on the third day of evidence it was suspended.

Mr Stephens said: We need a decision on the Dalradian gold mine, fast.

Its been around eight years with no movement, and that is harming the regions reputation, while preventing potential jobs and investment here.

As the price of gold rises, this mine could bring valuable revenue to the local economy, helping Northern Ireland fund healthcare, education, and so much more.

You are sitting on a literal goldmine, so please end this unnecessary delay.

Mr Stephens said it was a symptom of a broader issue.

He added: You cannot expect a US company to make a major investment here if they cannot be certain when they will get an answer from planning authorities.

Those systems need to be predictable, and to move at the speed of business.

A public appeal into the Daldradian gold mine project was suspended after just three days earlier this year (Liam McBurney/PA)

He said: Both President Trump and I are fierce advocates of the private sector, and of the special US-UK trade relationship.

We want the UK and Northern Ireland to succeed, because that makes us all stronger.

Its why we put pen to paper on the Economic Prosperity Deal in May, and why US and UK firms signed over 350 billion dollars worth of cross-investment deals when President Trump came in September for his historic second state visit  including Bank of Americas commitment to bring up to a thousand jobs to Northern Ireland.

But we need our partners here to show the same faith and decisiveness, whether in planning decisions or in dealing with energy costs.

Only then can we make our countries safer, stronger and more prosperous.

Clare Guinness, chief executive of Belfast Chamber, said: It was insightful to hear from US Ambassador Warren Stephens and get his thoughts on how the full potential of the US-Northern Ireland relationship can be unlocked.

Belfast, and Northern Ireland as a region, must be more open for businesses.

Its imperative that all stakeholders work together to create an environment that removes barriers such as planning challenges in order to help attract increased global investment to our region.

Earlier this month, Mr Stephens said US pharmaceutical companies will shut down their sites in the UK if the NHS does not pay more for drugs.

He also issued a rebuke after the Government announced the UKs first small modular reactor nuclear power station will be built at Wylfa, on Anglesey/Ynys Mon in North Wales.

Mr Stephens said the US was extremely disappointed by the decision.

He had been pushing for a larger reactor at Wylfa, and US firm Westinghouse had reportedly presented plans to the UK Government to build a new gigawatt station at the site.
Ryan Wedding competed for Team Canada in the 2002 Winter Olympics. He is on the FBIs 10 most wanted list - Adam Pretty/Getty Images North America

A former Olympic snowboarder accused of running an international drug trafficking ring has been charged with killing a government witness.

Ryan Wedding, who competed for Team Canada in the 2002 Winter Olympics, is accused of orchestrating the killing of a federal witness in Colombia to avoid extradition to the US.

A federal witness is someone who provides information in a case handled by the government.

The Trump administration is now offering up to $15m (11m) for information leading to the arrest of Mr Wedding, who is on the FBIs 10 most wanted list.

He is believed to be living in Mexico under the protection of the Sinaloa cartel, with whom authorities say he is working to funnel massive quantities of drugs into Canada and the US.

A reward poster for the arrest of Ryan Wedding - Andrew Harnik/2025 Getty Images

Whether you are a street-level drug dealer ... or an international drug kingpin, we are coming for you, Pam Bondi, the US attorney general, told reporters on Tuesday.

We will find you and you will be accountable and held to justice for your crimes.

Mr Wedding, whose aliases include El Jefe, Public Enemy, and James Conrad King, was charged in 2024 with running a drug ring that moves 60 tons of cocaine each year, using long-haul semi trucks to bring the drugs between Colombia, Mexico, Southern California and Canada.

Pam Bondi speaks to the media at the department of justice in Washington, DC on Wednesday - WILL OLIVER/EPA/Shutterstock

Mr Wedding and his co-conspirators used a Canadian website called the Dirty News to post a photograph of the witness so he could be identified and killed, investigators said.

The witness was then followed to a restaurant in Medellin in January, and shot in the head.

Wedding placed the bounty on the victims head, and the erroneous belief that the victims death would result in the dismissal of criminal charges against him and his international drug trafficking ring, and would further ensure that he was not extradited to the United States. He was wrong, said Bill Essayli, the top federal prosecutor for the Central District of California.

The US government is also offering rewards of up to $2m for others involved in the killing of the witness.
A 75-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran fatally shot himself in the chest while a patient at a Veterans Affairs hospital, after warning psychiatrists and social workers multiple times that he had access to a gun and was considering suicide, according to a $37.5 million wrongful death lawsuit filed by the mans grieving family.

In the suit, which was filed Tuesday in Chicago federal court and reviewed by The Independent, Roy Fred Giddens, Jr.s son Christopher  the executor of his fathers estate  blames the devastating turn of events on the physicians, social workers, and nursing staff tasked with his care.

Two New Years Eves ago, Giddens, on his third stay in five months at Chicagos Jesse Brown VA Medical Center after a stroke and at least one heart attack, expressed suicidal ideations overnight to an unidentified registered nurse, the familys complaint contends. That same day, a VA doctor met with Giddens, who told him that he sometimes felt like shooting himself because of his ongoing illness, it says.

On December 31, 2023, while a resident and under the care and treatment of the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Roy shot himself in the chest with a firearm, the complaint states. On December 31, 2023, Roy died as a result of the self-inflicted gunshot.

Attorney Daniel Goldfaden, who is representing Giddenss three sons and two daughters, called the situation absolutely tragic.

Roy Fred Giddens, Jr., a Vietnam vet living in Chicago, died by suicide in his room at a VA hospital after warning medical staff for months that he owned a gun and wanted to die. (Provided; Getty Images)

It did not need to happen, Goldfaden told The Independent. It was completely avoidable.

Giddens was a Vietnam vet who returned to the U.S. with severe post-traumatic stress disorder that gave him nightmares and flashbacks, according to Goldfaden.

He didnt go to the VA to harm himself, he went to get medical care, Goldfaden continued. They knew for months he had been feeling this way, they documented those warnings, he had previously told his providers that he had a gun, and told them he had no desire to live. To have nothing done in response is completely unfathomable to me.

The family was very close, and son Christopher, who had visited his dad in the hospital the day before he died, was completely caught off guard by it, according to Goldfaden. He said Christophers life has been basically turned upside-down, and that he continues to deeply grieve his father.

The fact that hes had to endure this completely preventable tragedy makes it more difficult for him to come to terms with this and process it all, Goldfaden said. ... Our veterans deserve better. This issue is prevalent, and we have a responsibility, and owe it to veterans across the spectrum, to help them get the care they need and deserve.

In 2022, the most recent year for which data is available, unadjusted suicide rates were highest among veterans between the ages of 18 and 34-years-old, followed by those aged 35 to 54. Veterans 75 and older had the lowest suicide rate overall, according to VA data.

A VA spokesperson said in an email Wednesday that the department doesnt typically comment on pending litigation.

Giddens, Jr. began a career driving a Chicago cab upon his return from Vietnam. His family is suing the government after Giddens fatally shot himself in his room at a VA hospital after allegedly expressing suicidal thoughts for months. (Getty Images)

Giddens, who became a cab driver upon his return from Vietnam, had been in and out of VA hospitals for several years, with a history of cardiac issues, according to a Chicago Sun-Times profile published two weeks after his death.

The complaint against the U.S. government lays out a timeline beginning on August 16, 2023, when Giddens went to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center to get treated.

During the admission process, a psychiatrist met with Giddens, noting that after a hospitalization in May, Giddens had expressed suicidal thoughts [about] using a gun to shoot himself in his head, and that he had access to a locked firearm in his apartment, the complaint states.

On December 1, 2023, Giddens was again admitted to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, according to the complaint. Three days later, after Giddens claimed he was continuing to have suicidal ideations, it says a VA psychiatrist recommended a 1:1 sitter to watch him.

Giddens was discharged, but returned on December 18, 2023, the complaint goes on. Upon admission, Giddens told a VA psychiatrist that he had thoughts of shooting himself in the chest, according to the complaint. On December 24, however, Giddens was sent home, the complaint says.

Five days later, on December 29, 2023, Giddens was re-admitted to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, thinking he was having another heart attack, his brother Donald told the Sun-Times last year.

He called me the next day to tell me that he had a conversation with the doctor, and the doctor had given him some really bad news, Donald said. He told me at that point that he really didnt feel that he was going to make it. He had this sense of doom and gloom, and I assured him that, upon discharge, we would get another opinion.

Giddens, Jr. had acute PTSD stemming from his military service in Vietnam, according to his attorney. After Giddens died by suicide in his room at a VA hospital, his family is suing the government for allowing it to happen (AFP via Getty Images)

On December 30, 2023, a VA social worker conducted an assessment on Giddens, and on December 31, a doctor noted that Giddens had spoken to an overnight nurse about wanting to take his own life, the familys complaint states. It says a second VA doctor who met with Giddens also wrote that his ongoing illness was making him suicidal.

That evening, a nurse treating another patient in Giddenss room heard a gunshot, according to a police report cited by the Sun-Times. She turned and saw Giddens sitting in a chair, with a gun in his hand and a single gunshot wound to the chest, the report said. As Giddens put the gun down on a hospital tray, he said he no longer wanted to live, the report stated. Giddens was rushed to a different hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:09 p.m., according to the Sun-Times.

Goldfaden said he had no idea how Giddens managed to sneak the gun into the hospital, and told The Independent he considers the circumstances of the case to be egregious.

He had previously told his providers that he had a gun, told them he had no desire to live, then to again complain of these suicidal thoughts the morning before he took his own life and to have nothing done in response? I was shocked, Goldfaden said.

VA hospital staff failed to apply the knowledge, skill, and care ordinarily used by a reasonably careful physician, licensed social worker, nurse and/or other healthcare professionals when a patient speaks about dying by suicide, according to the familys complaint.

Among other things, it lists each step at which a mental health intervention should have taken place, claims Giddens should have been transferred to a psychiatric unit upon expressing ongoing suicidal ideation, and says the VA [c]arelessly and negligently allowed Roy to be left unsupervised on the day he died. The complaint alleges hospital workers never coordinated consistent outpatient treatment for Giddens upon his past discharges, didnt get the gun removed from Giddens home after he informed them he owned one, and neglected to check Giddens for a weapon upon his final admission to the facility.

Giddens shot himself and died a direct and proximate result of the[se] failures of care and the negligent acts, the complaint states.

All of Roys next of kin suffered injuries as a result of his death, including the loss of companionship, society, grief and sorrow, it concludes.

The Giddenses are seeking $37.5 million on two causes of action: $12.5 million for common law negligence, and $25 million for wrongful death.

I think the family wants to prevent this from happening in the future, Goldfaden told The Independent, They want some answers as to how it happened, and some accountability.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you
Keir Starmer has called on Nigel Farage to urgently address multiple and detailed allegations of racist behaviour during his teenage years, as the Reform leader attempted to dismiss the claims as one persons word against another.

Pressure was put on Farage by the prime minister over what Downing Street said were disturbing allegations after the Guardian reported the testimony of more than a dozen school contemporaries, including an award-winning director who claimed to have been targeted with antisemitic abuse.

Related: Deeply shocking: Nigel Farage faces fresh claims of racism and antisemitism at school

In the face of concerns raised by Labour, the Liberal Democrats and an extremism adviser to the last Conservative government, Farages spokesperson on Wednesday appeared to question whether it would be possible to remember events from the 1970s and early 1980s.

If things like this happened a very, very long time ago, you cant necessarily recollect what happened, the spokesperson claimed.

Speaking in the Commons after a question from the Reform MP Lee Anderson at prime ministers questions, Starmer said Farage needed to personally explain himself in the light of the Guardians reporting.

Mr Speaker, he [Anderson] talks about dog whistle. Last week his leader said he didnt have time to condemn the racist comments of his fellow MP for Runcorn, the prime minister said, referencing Sarah Pochins complaint last month about TV adverts being full of black people, full of Asian people.

He also said he didnt have time to condemn his party calling children in care evil. He didnt have time. I wonder if we could ask his leader next door to him whether hes got time for his explanation for the stories in todays papers.

The prime ministers spokesperson added: These are disturbing allegations and its vital that Nigel Farage urgently explains himself. Youve heard the prime minister speak just this week about Farages weakness in the face of divisive politics in Reforms ranks.

Hes still not condemned the language or taken action against one of his MPs racist comments, refused to condemn them when asked last week. Reform is dragging our politics into a dark place. This Labour government stands for our patriotic British values of decency, tolerance and importantly, unity. So, its for Nigel Farage to explain.

A spokesperson for Farage reiterated the Reform leaders denial of him ever being racist and antisemitic at school. He questioned why some of those who had given testimony had not made the claims before.

Our statement was very clear that these allegations date back 45 years. And I think that at any point in time, when Nigel was leader of Ukip, when he stood in the 2010 general election, the 2015 general election, during Brexit, maybe in the 2019 general election, you would have to ask yourself, why didnt this come up before?

Asked if Farage therefore believed those who made the allegations were inventing them, the spokesperson said: Im saying there is no primary evidence. Its one persons word against another.

Related: He used to say things like Hitler was right: Farage faces more allegations of racist behaviour at school

Asked if someone would be blocked from standing as a candidate if they had made similar comments, a spokesperson for Reform said they would if there was some hard evidence.

John Woodcock, an adviser on political extremism to the last Conservative government as a cross-bench peer, said testimonies reported by the Guardian appeared credible and the Reform leaders response would be concerning to many.

Contemporaries accused Farage of targeting minority ethnic children for abuse during his time at Dulwich college, singing a Gas em all song that referred to the killing of Jewish, black and south-east Asian people, and burning a school roll in a year when there were said to be more Patels than Smiths.

When faced with claims from Channel 4 in 2013 about his conduct at school, Farage admitted saying some ridiculous things  not necessarily racist things  it depends on how you define it.

In response to the fresh allegations, a spokesperson for Reform, which is leading in the opinion polls, told the Guardian they were entirely without foundation.

Woodcock, ennobled as Lord Walney in 2020, suggested a prospective prime minister should not seek to brush off such claims. He said: These detailed testimonies from Mr Farages contemporaries appear credible and describe a degree of extremism that cannot be summarily dismissed as irrelevant simply because it was alleged to have occurred when he was a teenager. Many people will readily accept that young people can espouse offensive or extreme views that should not define their character as an adult.

They will be more concerned by the fact that Mr Farage is apparently now completely denying he ever said anything racist or antisemitic as a child, despite several public statements to the contrary from people who say they were on the receiving end of it from him.

This suggests a man not at ease with his past  a troubling characteristic for someone who is seeking to govern the country.

Among those who have accused of Farage of racist behaviour at Dulwich college was the Bafta- and Emmy-winning director Peter Ettedgui, 61, who claimed Farage would sidle up to him him and growl Hitler was right or Gas them.

In a new testimony, Jean-Pierre Lihou, a former friend of Farages at school, who said he once stayed over at his house, said he also recalled the abuse of Ettedgui.

He used to say things like, you know, Jude, to Peter, which is the German for Jew, in the way it was said in the 1930s, a long u in a menacing way, you know?, Lihou said. Its pretty awful and hes a bloody nice guy  Peter would become quiet, I think he originally said sod off because hes a fairly robust guy. But he eventually basically went into himself and tried to ignore it. It would subdue him.

Not all of the school contemporaries who spoke to the Guardian recalled racist behaviour or felt that Farage was bigoted. But a number of those who did experience such behaviour said they had been motivated to speak out by Farages failure to show contrition about his past.

Georgina Laming, the director of campaigns at Hope Not Hate, said: These revelations are sadly no surprise. Nigel Farage has consistently expressed anti-immigrant and intolerant views and shown voters who he really is.

The allegations were described as disturbing by the chair of the all-party parliamentary group against antisemitism.

The Labour MP Joani Reid said: I am sure they have caused concern amongst Britains Jewish community, which is facing an unprecedented rise in antisemitism.

I cannot comment on the veracity of these claims, only on how they make me feel. I think it essential that Mr Farage makes it clear he would not tolerate anyone in his party expressing such views at any time, and that these are not views he would ever express. Neither hatred of Jews nor any other racist opinion should be tolerated in Reform or any other party in parliament.

Sunder Katwala, of the integration thinktank British Future, said while people who would never trust Reform UK would see the claims about Farages schooldays as a gotcha, others would regard the allegations as from a different culture, that we now understand as toxic.

But the allegations brought into sharp focus the significant question of Reforms reputation on race and how far it can be trusted, Katwala said.

Simon Woolley, the founder of Operation Black Vote, said that people might ask whether Farages alleged toxic early views never disappeared at all and may have merely shifted focus to other groups, including Muslims and black people.

The Lib Dem home affairs spokesperson, Max Wilkinson, said: A lot of people say stupid and offensive things at school, but most grow out of it. Sadly, in Nigel Farages case hes made a career out of it instead.
The FBI director, Kash Patel, at the justice department in Washington DC on 19 November 2025. Photograph: Will Oliver/EPA

A longtime FBI employee has filed a lawsuit alleging that he was fired for displaying a Pride flag at his desk, naming the FBI director, Kash Patel, the justice department and the attorney general, Pam Bondi, as defendants.

According to David Maltinsky, an intelligence specialist who had served with the bureau for 16 years, his wrongful termination earlier this year was unconstitutional and politically motivated.

The lawsuit claims the FBI violated Maltinskys first amendment rights and took retaliatory action against him for engaging in protected speech. Maltinsky is seeking a court order to restore his job.

Maltinskys 18-page complaint, filed on Wednesday in the US district court for the District of Columbia, alleges that he was dismissed from the FBI academy last month for previously displaying the flag at his workstation with the support and permission of his supervisors.

According to the complaint, the Pride flag, which the bureau flew from its flagpole in front of its Los Angeles building, was given to Maltinsky in recognition of his efforts to support the FBIs diversity initiatives.

From a young age, all I have wanted to do is serve my country and ensure its security alongside the brilliant and dedicated men and women of the FBI, said Maltinsky, who joined the bureau in 2009 and spent more than a decade supporting public corruption and cybercrime investigations including North Koreas cyber-attack on Sony Pictures in 2014.

I displayed that Pride flag  which in 2021 flew in front of the Wilshire federal building  not as a political statement, but as a symbol of inclusion, unity and equal service. These are the values that once made the FBI strong. Now it is a place where people like me are targeted. I believe I was fired not because of who I am, but what I am: a proud gay man, he added.

Earlier this year, Maltinsky was accepted into the FBI special agent training academy at Quantico, Virginia, until what he described as his abrupt dismissal just three weeks before graduation.

Maltinskys lawsuit alleges that at some point after Donald Trumps inauguration on 20 January, a co-worker reported an alleged concern to Maltinskys direct supervisor about the display of the Pride flag at his workstation.

Out of an abundance of caution, Maltinsky requested that the Chief Division Counsel for the LAFO [Los Angeles field office] review whether the display of the Progress Pride flag and placard was permissible, Maltinskys complaint said, adding: The Chief Division Counsel advised Maltinsky that the display of the flag and placard did not violate any policy, rule, or regulation.

Nevertheless, on 1 October, Maltinsky was notified of his termination.

In a letter cited in Maltinskys complaint, Patel wrote: I have determined that you exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage in your work area during your previous assignment at the Los Angeles Field Office. Pursuant to Article II of the United States Constitution and the laws of the United States, your employment with the Federal Bureau of Investigation is hereby terminated.

In a statement released on Wednesday, Maltinskys lawyer Kerrie Riggs said: This administrations unlawfully firing him is part of a larger campaign to rid federal agencies of employees who may have different viewpoints, or are from marginalized groups, or who dare speak out against discrimination. Davids fight is not just about him, but about securing the rights and freedoms of all federal employees.

Related: Trans air force members sue Trump administration over denied pension

The FBI and the justice department declined to comment on the lawsuit.

Maltinskys lawsuit follows another one filed in September by three former senior FBI officials who said they were wrongfully terminated, alleging that Patel said he had been directed by the White House to fire any agent involved in an investigation into Trump.

Meanwhile, the FBI fired a nearly three-decade veteran earlier this month after Patel reportedly became furious at reports that the FBI director had taken a government jet to attend a wrestling event where his girlfriend performed the national anthem.

Steven Palmer, a bureau veteran since 1998, was removed as head of the FBIs critical incident response group, which manages major security threats and the agencys jet fleet.

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Arriving at the Cop30 climate conference in Belem, the gateway city to the Amazon, each of the 50,000 delegates is given a reusable metal water bottle printed with the cartoon of a flame-haired, spear-wielding figure known as Curupira.

Curupira is a spiritual figure from Amazonian folklore, who is considered a guardian of the rainforest and its animal inhabitants. According to the Brazilian Cop presidency, the mascot reflects the commitment to cut emissions and make protection of the forest a key ambition.

When asked what he thinks about such iconography, Dario Kopenawa Yanomami  an indigenous leader from deep in the Amazon, close to the border with Venezuela  only smiles. Its just propaganda. And we have to go beyond propaganda, he says.

Darios community is suffering from threats including illegal logging and land clearances, but the most pressing problem is illegal mining invasions from prospective gold miners. They cut down the trees, they flood the river with mercury, and they give alcohol and guns to other members of the community to try and turn us against each other, he says, adding that while things became really bad under the right wing populist President Bolsonaro, who was in power between 2019 and 2023, they have yet to notably improve under the current progressive President Lula.

While deforestation has been falling since Lula was elected, falling 30.6 per cent between August 2023 to July 2024 period, Lula stoked significant controversy by pushing for oil exploration in the Amazon region in the weeks leading up to Cop30.

A big Brazilian push for carbon offsetting projects at Cop30, which it is hoped will lead to more credits being sold based on the carbon absorbed by trees, has also been unpopular among indigenous peoples. How can you put a price on something that nature give us for free the air, the water, the sun, and the trees are not things that should be sold for profit, says Taily Terena, an indigenous activist hailing from the Pantanal in southern Brazil, which is the worlds biggest wetland area.

Around 100 members of the Munduruku people blocked the entrance to Cop30, presenting a list of demands that included the cancelling of carbon market projects (AP)

On Friday, the entrance to Cop30 was blocked for around 90 minutes by around 100 members of the Munduruku people, with leaders sharing a set of demands that included the canceling a grain railway project, an end to commercial development of rivers, and the cancelling of carbon market projects.

Both Taily and Dario express concerns around Brazils flagship forest protection project the Tropical Forest Forever Facility (TFFF) , which is intended to incentivise forest nations like Brazil to prevent deforestation, by essentially setting up a massive investment fund to give annual payments to countries to aid their forest conservation efforts. It doesnt really seem to be for indigenous people, it seems more a plan for white people to have the forest, says Dario  despite the fact that some 20 per cent of the funds are promised for indigenous people.

While the TFFF acknowledges the role of traditional peoples, it remains part of the financialisation of nature  a model that has failed to stop deforestation or protect communities, and instead prioritises profit, adds Eduardo Raguse, an activist at Amigas da Terra Brasil.

A forest community in the shadow of Belem

The location of Cop30 in Belem means that you do not have to go far to find evidence of the rainforest being destroyed.

A few minutes boat ride from the city lies the home of Seu Ladi, an 83-year-old forest-dweller of indigenous and Afro-Brazilian descent, who met with The Independent just ahead of the Cop30 climate talks beginning.

Seu Ladi shares indigenous knowledge of herbs, flowers, resins and other products that grow in the forest (Nick Ferris)

Ladi has lived off the same small patch of land in the forest his entire life, growing native plants like acai and cacao, while also harvesting all manner of other herbs, flowers, resins and other products that grow in the forest, the knowledge of which he keenly shows off during a walk deep into the forest. His is a way of life that has remained largely the same for generations  which is not something that can be said for the city of Belem and its residents.

When I was younger, Belem was all forest, and the port was a beach, he says. We used to paddle there at 2am in the rain to sell herbs at the market, he explains. These days, huge swathes of the forest in the area have been chopped down, he says - a phenomenon which, along with the escalating climate crisis, has transformed formerly reliable weather patterns.

Nowadays it becomes too hot at times and there is not enough rain, Ladi explains. At other times, there is far too much rain, and the storms become so great that I worry the city is going to wash away. The weather patterns mean that certain products have become harder to find in the forest, including Brazil nuts, which Ladi searches in vain to find for The Independent.

Ladis patch of forest includes seveal towering Samauma trees, known as the mother of the forest, which used to be common across the Belem area (Nick ferris)

The modern metropolis of Belem. When Ladi was a boy, the city was all forest, and the port was all beach, he says

Seu Ladi at his home in the forest (Nick Ferris)

Teams of loggers continue to come to the area, searching for expensive hardwoods that fetch a high price on the black market. Recently they came and I became so angry, I wanted to take my hunting gun and shoot them right away, he says. I pray to God for them to stop, and I do believe that God will ensure these people will one day pay.

As for Cop30, Ladi says that the priority should not be about schemes to bring money to the rainforest, but should instead be about boosting the rights of the people that live there.

One thing we dont need here in the forest is money We live in the Amazon, we have all the wealth we could possibly need, he says. What we need is protection, and for the forest to be preserved from more destruction.

Away from Belem, among Brazils more than 100 uncontacted tribes, that question of protection becomes a matter of life or death.

Such groups include the Awa people, who live just 200 miles from Belem in the same state of Para, who are at great risk as loggers, ranchers and settlers invade their territory, according to Sarah Shenker, from the London-based NGO Survival International. There are approximately only around 350 Awa people left on Earth.

Elsewhere, in the neighbouring state of Mato Grosso, lies the indigenous territory of the Kawahiva, an uncontacted tribe of nomadic hunter-gatherers that are similarly under threat from land grabbers, loggers and cattle ranchers. Whats more, in the face of intense lobbying from external interests, the territory has yet to undergo the process of demarcation, which is when the government guarantees the tribes legal right to their land.

At the beginning of this year, the government promised that the demarcation would be done by the end of this year, but that's clearly not going to happen because we were already in November, explains Shenker. Ongoing work to pave a road that lies just 3km from the Kawahivas territory is set to increase threats to the tribe yet further.

The Brazilian agency for indigenous rights, Funai, was contacted by The Independent about these claims.

It is believed that around half of the 196 uncontacted Indigenous groups living in 10 countries across the world are currently facing extinction, according to a five-year study from Survival International released ahead of Cop30, due to threats including logging, mining, agribusiness, criminal gangs, and the spread of diseases.

An image of a member of the uncontacted Kawahiva people, captured by the Brazilian indigenous peoples ministry, Funai (Funai)

Dario Kopenawa Yanomami, an indigenous leader from deep in the Amazon close to the border with Venezuela, who told The Independent that supporting indigenous people is about protecting all of humanity (Nick Ferris)

Protecting indigenous communities is also not only about human rights, but also about protecting the forest itself. An estimated 36 per cent of the worlds remaining intact forest lies in indigenous peoples lands  and studies show that when indigenous land rights are legally recognised in Brazil, there is typically a 66 per cent decrease in deforestation within the lands borders than in neighbouring non-indigenous lands.

Back at Cop30, when asked by The Independent if he worries for the future of his people given the ongoing threats from miners, Dario Kopenawa Yanomami is unequivocal: the threat to indigenous people threatens us all, not just the Yanomami people. After all, he continues, indigenous people are the most successful guardians of rainforest environments that play such a crucial role in oxygenating the atmosphere, and regulating the rainfall patterns that secure our food systems .

Western people have to stop thinking that the Amazon is only for an empty forest. We indigenous people are there and protecting the forest, he says.

Supporting us is not only about protecting forest indigenous people, but about protecting everybody. If there is no future for indigenous people, there is no future for anybody.
French police will use large nets to stop small boats crossing the English Channel  despite warnings that such tactics could lead to deaths.

France has been under mounting pressure from the UK to intercept migrant vessels at sea amid growing public anger over illegal migration, as Labour ramps up its efforts to deter people from making the crossings in a fresh crackdown.

Emmanuel Macrons government announced in July that it would change its maritime laws to allow for interceptions, but the plans have been delayed amid concerns that it could put lives at risk.

However, it has now emerged that several French law enforcement officers have been equipped with so-called arresting nets up to 30m wide since the spring. A source familiar with the matter said they can be used in the fight against illegal immigration, as well as for tackling drug trafficking.

Two sources from the French Ministry of the Interior told investigative newsroom Lighthouse and French newspaper Le Monde that nets will be used to carry out interceptions of small boats. One explained that five or six teams would patrol the coastline to intercept the boats, each with a maritime gendarmerie vessel to undertake the manoeuvres, and a French Navy vessel in case assistance is needed.

A training manual from a company that supplied these nets, seen by Lighthouse Reports and Le Monde, states they allow one or more boats to be neutralised simultaneously by blocking their propellers.

A view of small boats and outboard motors used by people thought to be migrants to cross the Channel from France at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent (PA)

The manual says the crew can disrupt the course of a non-compliant vessel so it changes course or stops, or use the nets to compel it to comply with instructions.

Another commercial document for the same company states that the nets can be used to capture and immobilise high-speed vessels, with the intercepting boat passing the target before dropping the net once it is 10-20 metres ahead.

But Remi Vandeplanque, a French coastguard and representative of the French customs union Solidaires Douanes, warned that employing such tactics to stop people in small boats trying to reach the UK will lead to deaths and that there is no way to carry out such manoeuvres safely.

There are usually at least 50 people on board, sometimes more. Whatever you do, you will create panic or distress, and one day there will be a disaster. The first time, maybe it will be okay, once or twice. But its clear that one day there will be fatalities caused by this, he said.

You can imagine the panic on board. If you pass in front of a dinghy, you will make waves. It is not possible to do this really safely. It will be dangerous regardless. They can say whatever they want, but there is no way to do it safely.

The majority of deaths of passengers of small boats in the Channel now occur near the coast, most of them either from drowning or asphyxiation on overcrowded boats. Twenty-six people have died during crossing attempts so far in 2025, according to French data.

The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself

French government source

On 30 September, a letter from the Solidaires Douanes union to the French customs general director, Florian Colas, condemned Frances plans to intercept small boats at sea as inhumane and absurd. The letter warned that such tactics risk causing shipwrecks and deaths, for which the moral and criminal responsibility would rest entirely on the personnel in charge of carrying out the interventions.

French gendarmerie, who will be carrying out the interceptions, are said to be concerned about the risk of casualties and fear officers could face criminal prosecutions as a result of deaths.

The police want guarantees. The prosecutors offices would have to make the grounds for prosecution very limited, according to a source at the Ministry of the Interior.

Impossible, retorted another source. No magistrate will agree to give the police carte blanche.

During a meeting on 10 November of French authorities involved in policing the sea, attendees agreed a criteria that must be met for interceptions at sea to be carried out.

The necessity to stop the boat must be demonstrated before intervening: showing that the boat is not suitable, that it is not a pleasure craft or a fishing boat, that the trajectory shows that it is trying to pick up people on the beach. This will not prevent prosecution if the action results in deaths, of course, said a source from the Ministry of the Interior.

It comes as France faces mounting pressure from the UK to introduce tougher measures to prevent small boats from leaving its shores. The new funding cycle for securing the Franco-British border is set to conclude in March, and the release of British funds to France is said to be contingent on Paris giving assurances of a tougher maritime security presence.

More than 39,000 migrants have crossed the Channel this year, up 19 per cent on 2024 (PA)

A French government source said: The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself.

So-called taxi boats are likely to be the first targets of the new strategy, according to sources. These are vessels that travel along the coastline and pick up migrants at various locations, who then wade several meters into the water, in a bid to avoid having the boats intercepted on the beaches by law enforcement.

The taxi boats phenomenon is on the rise, with more than 56 per cent of people who arrived in the UK in 2025 being transported on such vessels, according to data from the French authorities.

The latest measures come amid mounting pressure on the UK government to slash the number of people arriving in the UK by crossing the Channel, with almost 40,000 people making the perilous journey so far in 2025.

On Monday, home secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled a raft of hardline measures aimed at discouraging asylum seekers and making it easier to remove those who have no right to remain in the country amid growing public discord over the issue  but she is now battling growing backlash from her own MPs, some of whom believe the latest proposals go too far.

There has also been growing cooperation between Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron to clamp down on migration, with the two leaders holding a joint press conference over the summer, where they announced plans for a one in, one out returns agreement, which sees some asylum seekers sent back to France after crossing the Channel.

It came after Mr Macron admitted the problem of illegal migration was a burden for both the UK and France.
French police are set to adopt a more aggressive approach to stop small boat crossings - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

French police are to use nets to stop small boats leaving the countrys waters in a shift to more aggressive tactics.

Officers will aim to intercept the dinghies at sea by dropping nets in order to snag and stop their propellers and prevent them from crossing to the UK.

It follows a pledge by Emmanuel Macron, as part of an agreement signed with Sir Keir Starmer in July, to adopt tougher tactics to intercept boats in shallow waters within 300 metres of the French coast.

The new strategy has been delayed because of concerns by border officials and police that the tougher approach could put migrants lives at risk.

Last month, Martin Hewitt, the head of Border Security Command, revealed that he had expressed his frustration over the delay in introducing tougher tactics directly to the French authorities.

The move came as Yvette Cooper, the Foreign Secretary, secured an agreement for Germany to introduce a new law in December to enable its police to prosecute small-boat smugglers who store their dinghies in warehouses in the country. A loophole in German law had prevented such prosecution.

More than 39,000 migrants have crossed the Channel so far this year - Carl Court/Getty Images

The Telegraph revealed last week that French police were preventing fewer migrants from crossing the Channel since Sir Keir struck the deal with Mr Macron.

Just over a quarter (28.7 per cent) of migrants attempts to make the crossing have been stopped by French officers since the agreement was implemented in August.

Now, with more than 39,000 migrants having crossed the Channel so far this year, the French authorities are planning to test the new net strategy.

French border vessels will try to overtake the target dinghies before releasing the net 15 to 25 yards ahead of them to neutralise the boat by snagging its engines propellers. A source said: With nets, theres no collision, no waves.

The French police are expected to initially target the more lightly loaded taxi boats, which are steered up the coast after being launched in rivers or other waterways to pick up migrants who wade into shallow waters to get on board.

More than 56 per cent of migrants who have reached the UK in 2025 used taxi boats, according to the northern French prefecture.

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An interior ministry official told Le Monde: There will be five or six teams [along the coast], each made up of a gendarmerie maritime boat for interceptions and a French navy vessel positioned in case a rescue is needed.

Another ministry source specified that at first, there will be only one interception unit. Staff still need to be trained, but the idea is to build up capacity.

French sources said the authorities were fully aware of the risks inherent in such tactics being deployed at sea. This autumn, an average of 70 people are boarding poorly-built small boats.

Twenty-six people have died attempting the crossing since January, according to the prefecture. Most deaths occur near the coast, resulting from drownings or asphyxiation aboard overcrowded dinghies.

The manoeuvre will be extremely difficult, a police source told Le Monde. Its not going to be very forceful  no one wants to take unnecessary risks.

A company providing the nets told the French newspaper that the main risk is the risk of collision, adding that the responsibility to avoid collision lies with the interceptor boat.

French sources said the authorities were fully aware of the risks inherent in more aggressive tactics being deployed at sea - Gareth Fuller/PA

The deal with Germany closes a loophole under which facilitating people-smuggling is not technically illegal there if it is to a third country, which the UK is after Brexit. The change, to be passed into law on Dec 19, will mean police can start prosecuting in the new year.

Ms Cooper said: Together with Germany, we are taking new action to stop illegal small boat crossings, to strengthen border security and to go after the criminal smuggler gangs who have been storing boats and equipment in German warehouses.

As a result of the landmark treaty we signed earlier in the year, Germany is now set to change its law by Christmas so our police can jointly go after the smugglers and traffickers and their vile trade in human lives.
The government has been accused of fuelling an arms race of dangerous interceptions that could turn the Channel into a graveyard after it emerged that French police will use large nets to stop small boat crossings  despite warnings that such tactics could put lives at risk.

France has been under mounting pressure from the UK to reduce the number of small boats Channel crossings, with Labour ramping up its efforts to deter people from making the crossings in a fresh crackdown this week.

In July, the French government said it intended to revise its maritime laws to allow for vessel interceptions, but the proposal was postponed over fears that it might endanger lives.

It has now come to light, however, that since the spring several French law-enforcement officers have been issued arresting nets that, according to a source familiar with the development, can be deployed both in efforts to curb illegal immigration and in operations targeting drug trafficking.

MPs and campaign groups have condemned the action, with Amnesty describing the revelations as profoundly disturbing and Refugee Action saying the plans are violent, reckless and will undoubtedly increase the risk of people dying.

Labour MP Nadia Whittome said the use of nets is an extreme, inhumane policy that will put lives at risk, and Rachael Maskell said she is deeply troubled by the reports.

People thought to be migrants on board a small boat in Gravelines, France (PA)

Meanwhile, Mothin Ali, deputy leader of the Green Party, accused the government of a dangerous political game of cruelty that puts vulnerable peoples lives at risk.

Two sources from the French Ministry of the Interior told investigative newsroom Lighthouse and French newspaper Le Monde that nets will be used to carry out interceptions of small boats.

But Remi Vandeplanque, a French coastguard official and representative of the French customs union Solidaires Douanes, warned that the use of such tactics to stop people in small boats trying to reach the UK will lead to deaths and that there is no way to carry out such manoeuvres safely.

There are usually at least 50 people on board, sometimes more. Whatever you do, you will create panic or distress, and one day there will be a disaster. The first time, maybe it will be OK, once or twice. But its clear that one day there will be fatalities caused by this, he said.

On 30 September, a letter from the Solidaires Douanes union to the French customs general director, Florian Colas, condemned Frances plans to intercept small boats at sea as inhumane and absurd. The letter warned that such tactics risk causing shipwrecks and deaths, for which the moral and criminal responsibility would rest entirely on the personnel in charge of carrying out the interventions.

French gendarmerie, who will be carrying out the interceptions, are said to be concerned about the risk of casualties and fear officers could face criminal prosecutions as a result of deaths.

The police want guarantees. The prosecutors offices would have to make the grounds for prosecution very limited, according to a source at the Ministry of the Interior.

Impossible, retorted another source. No magistrate will agree to give the police carte blanche.

France faces mounting pressure from the UK to introduce tougher measures to prevent small boats from leaving its shores. The new funding cycle for securing the Franco-British border is set to conclude in March, and the release of British funds to France is said to be contingent on Paris giving assurances of a tougher maritime security presence.

Migrants are given life jackets by the French authorities as they leave the beach onboard a small boat in Gravelines (Gareth Fuller/PA)

A French government source said: The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself.

Responding to the revelations, Tom Southerden. Amnestys legal programme director, told The Independent: Reports that French officers may use large nets to disable small boats in the Channel are profoundly disturbing.

Deploying tactics designed to stop high-speed drug-smuggling vessels against overcrowded, unstable dinghies full of people seeking protection is an inherently reckless and dangerous approach.

He added: Instead of fuelling an arms race of dangerous interceptions, the UK and France should focus on expanding safe routes and improving asylum procedures. Policies that gamble with peoples lives at sea are indefensible and both governments must immediately abandon any plan that risks turning the Channel into a graveyard.

Meanwhile, Tim Naor Hilton, chief executive of Refugee Action, said: Pullbacks at sea such as the use of nets or knives to stop or slash boats are violent, reckless and will undoubtedly increase the risk of people dying.

Calling for the establishment of safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to access Britain, he added: Lets not forget that when we speak of boats, we are speaking of human beings, men, women, children, who are seeking safety and stability.

Rose Bernstein, interim director of the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, called the plans dangerous and risky, while Steve Smith from Care4Calais said it would undoubtedly put lives at risk.

It is absolutely damning of the moral vacuum that exists within the relationship between the UK and French governments that rather than creating safe routes for people to safely claim asylum in the UK, they would choose to put more lives at risk with inhumane tactics like this one, he added.

Labour MP Nadia Whittome said: This is an extreme, inhumane policy that will put lives at risk. The human cost of the governments attempts to appease the far right is devastating.

Former Labour voters are telling me they no longer recognise our party. This kind of cruelty is not what they voted for.

The Home Office has been contacted for comment.
James Comey in New York City on 30 May 2023. Photograph: Dia Dipasupil/Getty Images

Federal prosecutors on Wednesday said they had never presented the final version of the indictment filed against James Comey to a full federal grand jury, a concession that adds to mounting challenges in their effort to prosecute the former FBI director.

Prosecutors acknowledged the omission during a Wednesday hearing in which Comeys lawyers argued the case against him should be dismissed because it was a selective and vindictive prosecution.

Comey was indicted on 25 September on one count of making a false statement to Congress and one count of obstructing a congressional proceeding in connection with testimony he gave in 2020 in which he said he had not authorized someone else at the FBI to be an anonymous source in news reports regarding Hillary Clinton.

Court documents from September show that Lindsey Halligan, a Trump ally installed as a top prosecutor in the case, had sought an additional false statement charge against Comey, but that grand jurors had rejected it.

Once the grand jury rejected the charge, Halligan could have had the full grand jury vote again on a copy of the indictment that only included the two charges they voted to indict on, or presented the judge with a three-count indictment crossing out the count on which the grand jury had chosen not to indict on. But, pressed on Wednesday by Michael Nachmanoff, the US district judge overseeing the case, Halligan confirmed that only the foreperson and another grand juror had seen the revised indictment that had only the two charges the grand jury had voted to indict on, CNN and Lawfare reported on Wednesday.

Comeys team therefore views the indictment as null. There is no indictment Mr Comey is facing, Michael Dreeben, one of Comeys lawyers said in court on Wednesday. N Tyler Lemons, an assistant US attorney handling the case, argued that there wasnt a problem because the final version of the indictment merely removed a charge rejected by the grand jury. The new indictment wasnt a new indictment, he said, according to the Washington Post.

Andrew Tessman, a former federal prosecutor in West Virginia and Washington DC, said he saw the issue as highly problematic and a fatal flaw. This is just not how grand jury operates, he said.

Barbara McQuade, a former US attorney for the eastern district of Michigan, said it was unclear how the development could affect the case.

I cant ever recall a situation where I did not show the entire indictment to the grand jury so that they could review it and approve it, she said. However, I am not sure what the remedy is in this situation. It appears that they did review and vote on a prior version of the indictment. If the two counts included in the replacement indictment were identical to the two counts they approved, the error may be harmless.

Halligan is a former insurance lawyer who presented the case to the grand jury herself despite never having previously handled a criminal case.

A transcript of the hearing in which the indictment was returned in Comeys case obtained by CBS News shows some confusion over the indictment. The magistrate judge overseeing it said she had been given two versions of the indictment.

The reason we want to cross all of our Ts and dot all of our Is in these situations is because the court is also going to take it very seriously for the same reasons. And if you screw up one step in this process, then youre risking the whole case going away in an embarrassing fashion, Tessman said. The US attorneys office is going to take this whole process very seriously, but the court is going to take it even more seriously. And if they see one thing wrong with how the case was presented to the grand jury, theyre going to err on the side of protecting peoples constitutional rights.

Its understandable. You pulled a random insurance lawyer off the street and you put her into the grand jury with no training and no other experienced attorney there, he added. Its not surprising at all that some big mistake was made.

In a filing on Wednesday evening, Lemons said the issue did not doom the case.

The two charges contained in that indictment are identical to the second and third charges that were included in the proposed indictment that was provided to the grand jury, he wrote. Only the numbering of the counts (ie, proposed Count Two became Count One, and proposed Count Three became Count Two) and the paragraphs differ. Given that the grand jury was presented with the two counts on which it voted to return an indictment and in fact voted upon those counts, he said, dismissal of the case was not required.

Before Trump installed Halligan, it was widely reported that career prosecutors believed there was not sufficient evidence to charge Comey with a crime. On Wednesday, Lemons said the deputy attorney generals office had instructed him not to disclose whether a memo outlining the reasons for not prosecuting the case existed.

Wednesdays hearing came days after a magistrate judge handling the case said there may have been government misconduct and that Halligan made at least two fundamental and highly prejudicial misstatements of law to the grand jury. The magistrate judge ordered the prosecutors to take the highly unusual step of turning over grand jury materials to Comeys team. That order is on hold while an appeal is pending.
England bowler Gus Atkinson is happy to fly under the radar as he prepares for his first taste of Ashes cricket.

The Surrey seamer has enjoyed a superb start to his Test career, taking 63 wickets at 22.07 in just 13 appearances, but has attracted little attention in the build-up to Fridays first Test.

With a lively surface expected at Perth Stadium, the possibility of England pairing up express quicks Jofra Archer and Mark Wood for just the second time in red-ball cricket has dominated the build-up.

And the softly-spoken Atkinson  who took 12 scalps on debut, bagged a hat-trick against New Zealand last winter and claimed eight in his previous outing against India  is content to stay out of the firing line.

Im not sure its a mistakeits been like that a bit so far in my career, in the background, and I dont mind that at all, he said.

Jofra and Woody are amazing bowlers and theyll be huge for us this series. You hear about it (Tests in Australia) in the past and its all pace, pace, pace but were hearing lately a bit more seam movement. For me personally, its nice to hear that. Thats something Im looking forward to.

Asked if the trip represented the biggest challenge he has yet experienced in the international game, Atkinson did not hesitate.

Gus Atkinson has been prolific in his first 13 Tests as an England player (Ben Whitley/PA)

Yes, 100 per cent, he said.

It feels like weve been building up to this series for a while, since Ive been in the team, so this will be a huge test for all of us.

Im really excited. The build-up has obviously been big but its the Ashes: its huge. Growing up youre always watching it, so to be here in Australia is a bit surreal.

England are optimistic of ending a dire sequence of results Down Under, having failed to win a single match on their past three tours.

2013/14 - Lost 5-0

2017/18 - Lost 4-0

2021/22 - Lost 4-0

But Atkinson is one of 11 in the 16-man squad who are first-timers, with no bad memories to weigh them down.

I think theres a few of us who havent played Test matches in Australia so there are no scars for me, he said.

Weve obviously got players who have played a lot, like Rooty and Stokesy, and we can speak to them, but I do think its a good thing that few of us are coming in with not too much experience here.

England were taking the second training slot on Wednesday, with Wood set to undergo another big workout in the nets as he aims to prove his fitness for selection.
Charlotte Charles, the mother of teenager Harry Dunn, has been appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire, stating her son would be super proud.

Ms Charles, 50, received the honour from the Prince of Wales during an investiture ceremony at Windsor Castle on Wednesday.

She was recognised for her work campaigning for road safety, following her sons death in 2019.

Harry Dunn, 19, was killed by a US citizen who was able to leave the UK under diplomatic immunity laws.

Ms Charles said her son would be proud of her achievement.

When asked about receiving the award, Ms Charles said: It feels surreal.

I feel honoured and humbled to receive an MBE in Harrys name.

Speaking about how her son may have reacted, she said: I think Harry would probably be giggling, to be honest.

But he would be super proud.

Charlotte Charles after being made MBE during a ceremony at Windsor Castle (PA)

Ms Charles added that William said some very kind words to her: He acknowledged its been a long road, and that I have had a lot of hurdles put in my way that I have managed to jump over.

Incredible. Ill treasure it forever.

Six years ago, Harry was killed when a Volvo driven by then US state department employee Anne Sacoolas hit him while on the wrong side of the road outside RAF Croughton in Northamptonshire.

Sacoolas had diplomatic immunity asserted on her behalf following the crash, and she was able to leave the country 19 days later.

The death of the teenage motorcyclist led to a Transatlantic diplomatic row. Ms Charles, alongside Harrys father Tim Dunn, campaigned for justice for years.

Teenage motorcyclist Harry Dunn was killed when a Volvo driven by then US state department employee Anne Sacoolas hit him while on the wrong side of the road (Family handout)

Speaking about her activism, Ms Charles said: The campaign gave me an avenue for my anger, my grief and my frustrations.

You dont even stop to think about where your life is going to end up, she added, referring to her MBE.

Ms Charles said: I will continue to work really hard and support any other family that continues to reach out for support and direction, and I will do everything I can to carry on Harrys legacy.

She was named in the Kings birthday honours list earlier this year.

Campaigning from Ms Charles and her family prompted road safety improvements around US Air Force bases, and led the UK and the US to amend the anomaly that allowed Sacoolas to leave the country.

Charlotte Charles added that William said some very kind words to her (PA)

Renewable energy pioneer Peter Musgrove was also honoured by the Prince of Wales on Wednesday, after being made a CBE in the Kings birthday honours.

The engineer and co-founder of RenewableUK said he was delighted to have received the honour at Wednesdays ceremony.

When asked about his interaction with William, the 87-year-old said: It went very well.

Questioned on what his CBE means, he said: It reinforces the message that weve got to take action, and there are things we can do.

He added: Its very unfortunate whats happening. Climate change is a real threat.

He also said he will continue to evolve his work, and wishes to increase public interest in wind power and renewable energy: Its an exciting time.

Also due to attend the investiture ceremony was Sir Matthew Vaughn, the filmmaker behind Layer Cake, Kick-Ass, X-Men: First Class and the Kingsman films, who was awarded a knighthood for his services to the creative industries in former prime minister Rishi Sunaks resignation honours list.

He was unable to attend Windsor Castle on Wednesday, so his investiture will be rearranged for a later date.
A World Health Organization worker decontaminates a house whose owner tested positive for Ebola in Beni, in 2018. Photograph: Sopa/LightRocket/Getty

The loss of more than 2,000 jobs at the World Health Organization (WHO) will leave the world less healthy and less safe, experts have warned.

The global health body said it expected to lose 2,371 posts  nearly a quarter of its workforce  by June 2026 as it deals with budget cuts after the US withdrawal from the organisation in January. At that point the WHO had 9,401 staff members.

Analysts and campaigners said the cuts, made under financial pressure, would probably leave the WHO less able to help countries facing disease outbreaks.

Pete Baker, the deputy director of global health policy and a fellow at the Center for Global Development, said: WHO staffing cuts are a regrettable but inevitable outcome of US withdrawal and lower-than-hoped-for contributions by other countries. The loss of expertise will leave the world less healthy and less safe.

Now, more than ever, WHO needs a clear, strategic vision to navigate its new fiscal reality. Instead, these cuts are aimed at global and Africa-based staff, at a time when WHO should be doubling down on its global work  such as coordinating responses to pandemics and other health threats  and providing limited country support to the poorest nations, most of which are in Africa.

The highest number of cuts  805 posts  will be in the WHOs Geneva-based headquarters. Its African regional office will be the next worst affected, losing 638 of 2,541 posts according to documents posted online.

Dr Githinji Gitahi, chief executive of Amref Health Africa, said although the cuts were expected, it is rapid in nature, and with little transition planning.

With these cuts, certain functions, especially disease surveillance, supply chain management and emergency response will inevitably be impacted. African governments are going to have to lift more weight than before, he said.

Eloise Todd, the executive director and founder of Resilience Action Network International, said: At a time when we face increasing health threats worldwide, reduced capacity will severely impact the WHOs ability to play the role member states ask of them.

About half of the reduction in headcount would be achieved through natural attrition such as retirements or the end of temporary contracts, the WHO said, and the rest through position abolition.

The cuts process has been turbulent inside the WHO, with junior staff sending an anonymous open letter in August claiming that senior staff were being shielded from the cuts and many high-cost positions kept.

In a lengthy email sent from the WHO chief, Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, to staff, seen by the Guardian, he said the year had been one of the most difficult in WHOs history. He said the process of cutting positions had involved painful conversations with staff, who had expressed their pain, anxiety and, in some cases, their anger.

WHO documents presented to member states at a briefing on Wednesday show that the number of senior directors will reduce from 65 to 38, a 42% cut that returns their numbers to around 2017 levels. Entry-level professionals will see numbers cut by 37%, from 291 to 183.

Michel Kazatchkine, a senior fellow at the Global Health Center, Geneva Graduate Institute, described the WHOs presentation as a politically correct document showing how the balance between grade, regions, gender [etc] has been kept in the 2,000-plus cuts that were announced.

He added: It does not say much about the choices made at senior level, and how much the specific added value of people versus other criteria has been guiding decisions.

Kazatchkine said what was needed was a clear agreement from the WHOs governing body, the World Health Assembly, on its core mandate, and what it should leave to other bodies such as Unicef or the Global Fund.

And then, he said, assess the needed budget, the needed human resources and fundraise strategically rather than adjusting manpower and activities to financial pressure.

Related: Three countries boost family planning funding in powerful shift from dependency in Africa after aid cuts

The cuts were not necessarily irreversible in a rapidly moving landscape, he said, adding that adequate financing and adequate manpower were vital to keep the WHO independent in a heavily politically charged environment.

Ghebreyesus told staff the WHO had faced a difficult financial situation even before the US announced its intention to withdraw in January, and had sought to change its funding mechanisms to provide greater stability. However, the US decision, combined with funding cuts from other countries, left us facing a salary gap of about $500m [382m], he said.

In a speech to member states, he said there was still a funding gap of $1bn for 2026 and 2027, and asked for support to close it.
Good news for Barbie fans: it looks like an immersive Barbie movie experience is coming to London.

Deadline has reported that Secret Cinema and TodayTix, in collaboration with toy brand Mattel and Warner Bros, are in the final stages of securing a deal.

If it goes ahead, its believed Barbies Dream House will open in the summer.

Its been two-years since Greta Gerwigs billion-dollar Barbie movie hit cinemas, starring Margot Robbie as Barbie and Ryan Gosling as Ken.

Margot Robbie at the Barbie premiere (Ian West/PA) (PA Archive)

The experience will comprise of theatrical performances, immersive sets where consumers can experience where BarbieLand stories take place, a BarbieLand Carnival, dancefloors, and themed food and drink.

Were beyond excited to bring Greta Gerwigs brilliant Barbie The Movie, inspired by Mattels Barbie brand to life in a way that only Secret Cinema can, Merritt Baer, Artistic Director of Secret Cinema and co-founder of TodayTix, said.

In collaboration with Mattel and Warner Bros., were inviting audiences to step through the iconic pink doors of BarbieLand  to sing, dance and celebrate together. Its part-immersive experience, part-West End theatre and without a doubt, the best night out youll have all year.

A similar tourist location has just opened in Amsterdam, where people can get their pictures taken at life-size Barbie sets.

It was reported in July the worlds most famous doll is heading back to cinemas  and shes going animated.

Mattel has confirmed it is teaming up with Illumination, the animation powerhouse behind Despicable Me, to produce the first-ever animated Barbie movie for theatres.

Barbie has appeared in over 50 animated films since 2001, but those were direct-to-video or streaming offerings; this marks her first animated cinema outing, proving Barbies big-screen era is far from over.

Details are tightly under wraps for now, with Mattel, Universal and Illumination declining to comment further.

Barbie was a cultural earthquake when it landed two years ago, earning $1.3 billion globally.

That made the film Warner Bros. highest-grossing theatrical release ever, and scored eight Oscar nominations including Best Picture.

Before it became a phenomenon, even Robbie predicted its success, telling Collider she told the studio in the green-light meeting, Youve got Barbie and Greta Gerwig itll make a billion dollars.
New York State Attorney General Letitia James (REUTERS)

A US District Judge has dismissed a legal challenge brought by the Trump administration against New York policies that prevent immigration officials from making arrests at state courthouses. Judge Mae D'Agostino ruled late on Monday, asserting that the federal government cannot compel states to cooperate with such enforcement efforts.

The ruling grants New York's motion to dismiss the lawsuit, which was one of several legal actions initiated by the Republican administration targeting state and local immigration enforcement policies. The challenge specifically targeted a 2020 state law, known as the Protect Our Courts Act.

This legislation prohibits federal immigration officials from arresting individuals attending or leaving New York courthouses, or those present for proceedings, unless a warrant signed by a judge is presented. The Act was enacted in response to enforcement actions at courthouses during President Donald Trump's first term.

In its lawsuit, the Department of Justice claimed that the New York law and two related state executive orders were unconstitutional because they obstructed the execution of federal immigration authorities.

DAgostino, though, found that New York's decision not to participate in enforcing civil immigration law is protected by the 10th Amendment, which sets boundaries on the federal government's powers.

New York Attorney General Letitia James (REUTERS)

Fundamentally, the United States fails to identify any federal law mandating that state and local officials generally assist or cooperate with federal immigration enforcement efforts. Nor could it," the judge wrote. "No such federal laws exist because the Tenth Amendment prohibits Congress from conscripting state and local officials and resources to assist with federal regulatory schemes, like immigration enforcement.

The Justice Department didn't immediately respond to a Tuesday email seeking comment about the ruling, including whether it plans to appeal.

New York Attorney General Letitia James, a Democrat whose office argued for the lawsuit to be dismissed, said she was fighting for the dignity and rights of immigrant communities.

Everyone deserves to seek justice without fear," James said in a statement. This ruling ensures that anyone can use New Yorks state courts without being targeted by federal authorities.
Unions said Chiltern Railways only recently notified them of plans to run the East West Rail line without guards. Photograph: Chiltern Railways

The start of passenger services on the new East West Rail line will be delayed until at least 2026 with no start date confirmed, the operator has said, partly due to a row over guards on the trains.

Passenger trains were supposed to come into service between Oxford and Milton Keynes this autumn, the first stage on the new railway along the Oxford-Cambridge arc where the government hopes for rapid economic growth.

However, the operator, Chiltern Railways, has yet to formally notify authorities of the start of services  meaning trains on the flagship project will not be timetabled for several months.

The track and infrastructure has been completed and passenger trains have been leased but stand idle. More than a year has elapsed since Network Rail finished work on the line and the first test trains ran, and freight trains are running on the route.

A looming row over how trains are staffed is understood to be the main stumbling block. An existing agreement is understood to only allow Chiltern to operate trains without guards on certain parts of its network.

Both the RMT union, representing guards, and Aslef, representing train drivers, formally oppose any extension to driver-only operated trains on the UK railway  a position that is likely to have been reinforced by the recent knife attack on a train in Cambridgeshire.

Unions said Chiltern only recently notified them of plans to run the East-West trains without guards. An RMT spokesperson confirmed that Chiltern management had written spelling out the plans and the union was seeking talks. Aslef said it was approached last month but was awaiting the outcome of the RMT negotiations.

The single new station so far built on the route, Winslow, has also yet to be completed. Work is continuing.

A Chiltern Railways spokesperson said: We are working with the Department for Transport, trade unions and other industry partners to deliver the first stage of East West Rail for customers and businesses.

As well as creating nearly 100 new permanent jobs at Chiltern, this new service will deliver immense benefits across the region, so we are eager to ensure that these benefits are realised for the community as soon as possible.

A DfT spokesperson said: We are supporting Chiltern Railways as they work closely with unions and other industry partners to get services on the first phase of East West Rail up and running as soon as possible.

The transport secretary, Heidi Alexander, said East West Rail would be a catalyst for growth, more jobs and opportunity, and this project will make rail travel faster, greener and more reliable for millions of passengers  laying the foundations for long-term prosperity in one of the UKs most dynamic regions.

East-West Rail will eventually be a critical component of the Oxford-Cambridge corridor that ministers have earmarked as Europes Silicon Valley, delivering economic growth and tens of thousands of new homes, including a possible new town on the route at Tempsford.

The phased opening of the railway will next involve upgrades to the line from Milton Keynes and Bletchley to Bedford, and then a new line built east of Bedford to Cambridge.

The full opening is also likely to be pushed further back into the 2030s after the government confirmed changes to the scope and route to allow more trains and another station to serve the planned Universal theme park near Bedford.

The East West Railway Company building the multibillion-pound line said it hoped to run up to five trains per hour, with up to 70% more seating across the route, due to greater forecast demand.

Its chief executive, David Hughes, said the updates reflect our commitment to listening to communities while designing a railway that delivers long-term benefits for the region. Our latest proposals better reflect what matters most to people and will deliver better outcomes for passengers, local communities and the environment.
One killed and at least 170 homes damaged as huge fire tears through southern Japan

One person has reportedly died after an out-of-control fire on Wednesday morning burned through a neighbourhood in southwestern Japan and forced more than 170 people to evacuate.

Earlier, it was reported that at least 170 homes were damaged and a man in his 70s was unaccounted for, according to Japans Fire and Disaster Management Agency.

A woman in her 50s was reportedly admitted to a local hospital and is receiving treatment for mild burns.

The fire started during strong winds on Tuesday evening near a fishing port in the city of Oita and spread to a forest. Oita sits on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japans main islands, roughly 770km southwest of Tokyo.

Residents watch flames rise from the site of a fire in Oita, southern Japan, on 18 November 2025 (AP)

One resident told the Kyodo news agency she quickly fled without many of her belongings because the fire spread in the blink of an eye.

The huge fire is touted to be the countrys biggest urban blaze in nearly 50 years. The scale of destruction, both in the number of buildings and the area consumed, makes this Japans biggest non-earthquake urban fire since the 1976 Sakata inferno. By comparison, a 2016 blaze in Itoigawa destroyed 147 structures across roughly 40,000 square metres, though it caused no fatalities.

Prefectural officials said by 11.40pm on Tuesday, 175 residents from 115 households had taken refuge in a nearby community hall.

Fire officials were first alerted at around 5.45pm on Tuesday when a resident in Oitas Saganoseki district made an emergency call.

Authorities have invoked the disaster relief law for Oita city, enabling both local and central governments to cover emergency costs, including the running of evacuation shelters.

A prefectural task force has been established and is scheduled to meet on Wednesday morning to map out the next steps in the response.

Firefighters work at the scene of a major blaze in Saganoseki, Oita city, late on 18 November 2025 (AFP via Getty)

The neighbourhood hit by the blaze lies in a mountainous area about 25km east of central Oita, close to the Saganoseki fishing port.

Aerial images broadcast by local media revealed rows of homes burned to ashes, with heavy smoke billowing over the hillside community overlooking a fishing port famous for its prized Seki mackerel.

Aerial view of the scene after an overnight fire in the Saganoseki area of Oita city, Japan, on 19 November 2025 (AFP)

Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi said that a military firefighting helicopter had been deployed after the Oita prefectural governor requested assistance.

She wrote on X: I extend my heartfelt condolences to all residents who are evacuating in the cold.

The government will provide the maximum possible support in collaboration with local authorities.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The regional government said in a statement that the fire left nearly 300 homes in the area without power.

The flames rose high, turning the sky red. The wind was strong. I never thought it would spread so much, a man in Oita told NHK Japan.

The mountain was burning, the one behind, said another. I brought with me my drivers licence and smartphone.
Lord Mandelson said there was no disguising my embarrassment about the incident - Dandef/CLICK NEWS AND MEDIA

Lord Mandelson could face a 300 fine after he was photographed relieving himself in public against a wall.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea has confirmed it is investigating after the Labour peer was seen urinating in a street in Notting Hill, west London.

Photographs, first published by the Daily Mail, showed Lord Mandelson at the scene shortly before 11pm on Wednesday evening.

The former British ambassador to the US had earlier spent the evening at the central London home of George Osborne, the former chancellor.

The maximum fine for urinating in Kensington and Chelsea is 300, reduced to 150 if paid within a fortnight.

There is no bylaw covering public urination in the borough, but action could come via a fixed penalty notice under the Environment Protection Act, The Telegraph understands.

Disorderly behaviour

Conservative councillor Johnny Thalassites, lead member for planning at the council, said: We are aware of images appearing to show a prominent politician caught short on one of our streets and are investigating whether an offence has been committed.

While we appreciate that nature can call at the most inconvenient moments, we are proud of our boroughs clean streets and amazing spaces, and it is unacceptable for anyone to treat them as a urinal.

Public urination is an offence of disorderly behaviour under the Public Order Act 1986.

Julian Lee, a criminal defence expert, told The Telegraph: Technically, its against the law... but its very unlikely that someone who gets caught short would end up being prosecuted.

The only exception would be if they had caused alarm or distress to another person, or caused criminal damage, or were also doing something of a sexual nature. I very much doubt those factors apply in this case.

Pressure on PM to suspend peer

Lord Mandelson offered profuse apologies for the incident when contacted by the Daily Mail.

He said: I was stood up by two Uber drivers and kept waiting in the street for half an hour, and was bursting. There is no disguising my embarrassment.

The Labour Party veteran was sacked as the UKs ambassador to the US in September after emails revealed he had not been open about his friendship with Jeffrey Epstein, the late convicted paedophile.

Documents showed that Lord Mandelson had described him as his best pal and urged him to fight for early release, adding: Your friends stay with you and love you.

Lord Mandelson has been stripped of a series of titles. Earlier this month, he also resigned from his role as an honorary fellow at St Catherines College, Oxford.

The Labour peer, who is currently on a leave of absence from the House of Lords, previously said he had continued his association with Epstein for too long.

He has faced calls to give up his peerage, while Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, has come under pressure to suspend him as a member of the Labour Party.
Im A Celebritys Jack Osbourne has lifted the lid on one of his father Ozzys most memorable moments.

Speaking to his campmates on Wednesday (19 November), the 40-year-old recounted the time the Prince of Darkness, who died in July, bit the heads off two live doves during a record label meeting in Los Angeles.

Osbourne explained that his mother Sharon told the rockstar to bring the doves to the meeting as a sign he was a peaceful guy.

However, an intoxicated Osbourne sat on the knee of an executive and proceeded to bite the head off two of the birds. It was pandemonium, he said.
Workers ages 50 and older are eligible to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k)s and other similar workplace retirement plans (Getty Images/iStockphoto)

The Internal Revenue Service has announced a major change to 401(k) contributions for certain workers.

Workers ages 50 and older are eligible to make catch-up contributions to their 401(k)s and other similar workplace retirement plans.

In the past, these contributions could be made pre-tax. But under a new rule, workers who made more than $145,000 in the year prior must make these catch-up contributions after tax. That means these contributions will go into a Roth account, which is for contributions made with after-tax dollars.

The new rule takes effect in 2027 but retirement plans can start implementing this policy as soon as 2026 using a reasonable, good faith interpretation of statutory provisions, according to the IRS.

Heres what you need to know about the change, and how it might impact you.

Catch-up contributions are important because they help workers 50 and older better plan for retirement (nitinai2518 - stock.adobe.com)

What are catch-up contributions, and why do they matter?

401(k) plans are a popular type of retirement savings account provided by employers. In 2025, workers can contribute up to $23,500 to their 401(k)s. In 2026, that limit will be $24,500. But workers 50 and older are eligible to make additional contributions on top of this limit.

The limit for catch-up contributions in 2025 is $7,500, and will increase to $8,000 in 2026. Workers ages 60 to 63 have an even higher 2025 catch-up contribution limit of $11,250, which will remain the same in 2026.

Catch-up contributions are important for workers who feel like they havent saved enough for retirement, according to Samantha Prince, an associate law professor at Penn State Dickinson Law.

At age 50, theyre closer to the milestone of being able to retire, and better situated to assess what their retirement needs are, Prince told The Independent. So, these catch-up contributions are really important.

How will the changes impact me?

Under the new rule, catch-up contributions must be made after tax by workers 50 and older, who are making more than $145,000 in FICA wages, which refers to wages that can be taxed for Social Security and Medicare.

Most workers in the U.S. pay FICA taxes, with some exceptions. This $145,000 threshold is also based on a workers income from the previous year. The new rule means catch-up contributions from these workers must be made after taxes into a Roth account.

Workers 50 and older, who made more than $145,000 in the previous year, will be impacted by these changes to catch-up contributions (Getty Images)

While it might seem like higher earners are losing a tax break under this change, Prince says there are trade-offs to both options.

When you do pre-tax [contributions] it's not taxed at the rate you're at now. When you start taking money out, your earnings and the money you put in are all going to start being taxed then, Prince said. The idea is you're at a lower tax bracket when you're in retirement than you are when you're an avid income earner in your working life.

But paying taxes on catch-up contributions immediately means you wont get taxed on your earnings later.

When you do this additional catch-up contribution, it's actually a bit of a boon, in a way, that you are paying the tax now, but on all those earnings, you will never pay tax, Prince said. The other way, youre having to pay tax on your earnings.

Workers who make above $145,000 but whose 401(k) plans dont offer Roth options wont be able to make catch-up contributions. However, about 93 percent of plans offered Roth after-tax contributions in 2023, according to a survey by the Plan Sponsor Council of America.

If you earn above the threshold and dont have a Roth 401(k) option available, there are still ways to save the funds youd use for catch-up contributions. Prince suggests putting those funds into a brokerage account instead.

This article is sponsored by Credit Karma. We may earn a commission if you engage with their services using links in this article.
Alleged train attacker Anthony Williams (Supplied)

A man accused of stabbing 10 people on a train to London has been charged with seven further offences.

Anthony Williams is already charged with 10 counts of attempted murder in relation to a mass stabbing on the Doncaster to King's Cross LNER service on the evening of Saturday, November 1.

Williams will appear in court later on Wednesday charged with further offences, British Transport Police said.

Forensic officers walk next to the LNER train where a series of stabbings took place at a platform at Huntingdon Station (REUTERS)

The 32-year-old has been charged with the attempted murder of a 14-year-old boy and the attempted murder of a 22-year-old man in Peterborough in separate incidents, and attempted grievous bodily harm of a 22-year-old in the city, all on October 31.

Williams, of Langford Road, Peterborough, is also accused of affray and possession of a bladed article in connection to an incident at Ritzy Barbers in Peterborough, theft of knives from an Asda supermarket in Stevenage and assaulting a 31-year-old man on a train travelling between Hitchin and Biggleswade, all on October 31.

BTP Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said: These are a significant set of new charges.

Our investigation into the awful incident at Huntingdon has also focused on other offences previously reported to police or identified by our investigation.

We have worked closely with our colleagues in Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to bring these charges.

Breaking news. This article is being updated.
Peter Sullivan was falsely convicted in 1987 of the murder of Diane Sindall near Merseyside (Merseyside Police/Reuters)

A man who was wrongly jailed for almost 40 years for a murder he didnt commit has described being beaten by police officers and bullied into a false confession.

Peter Sullivan was handed a life sentence when he was convicted in 1987 of the brutal murder of 21-year-old florist Diane Sindall, in Bebington, near Merseyside.

Now 68-years-old, he had his conviction overturned earlier this year after new DNA tests revealed his innocence in what is thought to be the longest-running miscarriage of justice in British history.

Speaking for the first time since his release, Mr Sullivan has described his haunting experience of being falsely accused, and says he wants an apology from Merseyside Police.

Mr Sullivan, who has learning difficulties, claimed he had not been provided with an appropriate adult during interviews and was initially denied legal representation when he was arrested in 1986.

He initially denied the attack but later signed a confession, which he subsequently retracted.

Diane Sindall was murdered in 1986 (Merseyside Police/PA) (PA Media)

"They were putting stuff into my mind, then they would send me back to my cell, then I'd come back and say what they wanted, not realising what I was doing at the time," he told the BBC.

He added he was physically assaulted by officers: They threw a blanket over the top of me and they were hitting me on top of the blanket with the truncheons to try and get me to co-operate with them," he said.

It really hurt, they were leathering me.

He also claimed he was told if he did not confess to the murder, he would be charged with 35 other rapes and denied food and sleep.

"All I can say, it was the bullying that forced me to throw my hands in, because I couldn't take it anymore, he said.

Ms Sindall, who was engaged to be married, was walking to a petrol station after her van broke down when she was beaten to death, with her body left partially clothed and mutilated following a frenzied assault.

Semen which was discovered on her abdomen had been partly diluted by rainfall, and therefore had not been possible to test until 2024.

Peter Sullivan spent 38 years in prison for the murder of Diane Sindall in 1986, and has had his conviction quashed at the Court of Appeal (PA Media)

It was alleged during his 1987 trial that Mr Sullivan had spent the day drinking heavily after losing a darts match, and had armed himself with a crowbar before a chance encounter with Ms Sindall.

Ms Sindalls clothing was found two weeks later Bidston Hill, and when asked by officers to mark where they had been found, Mr Sullivan told the BBC he pointed to the wrong place.

He said a detective said: Come on Peter, you know better than that," and hinted at the "correct" location.

In his first interview since his release, he told BBC North West, aired on the Today programme he said he cant forgive the police.

Mr Sullivan has described his haunting experience of being falsely accused, and says he wants an apology from Merseyside Police (Reuters)

Thats all I want is an apology with the reason why they done this to me  from Merseyside police and everyone else  I lost all my freedom, I lost my mother, since I was put in prison, Ive lost my father, and it hurts because I wasnt there for them, he said.

I have never been able to set myself to go and see my mums grave, and I cant  carry on with my life if I cant get an answer out of them, that is what I need the most is an answer from them, and thats all I care about, that answer  why they done it to me?

He added that he feels sorry for the family Ms Sindalls, saying I will be there by their side if needed.

The case has been re-opened since his conviction was overturned, but no arrests have been made.

I feel sorry for (Ms Sindalls family), I really do feel sorry for them and what theyre going through at the moment, where theyre back at square one and not knowing who the person is that killed their daughter, he said.

The memorial stone for Diane Sindall on Borough Road in Birkenhead, Wirral (Eleanor Barlow/PA) (PA Wire)

I dont know what to say to them, I am really sorry for whats happened to their daughter, and if they need  if they want  my support when they go to court with the guy, when they find him, I will go to court with them, I will be there by their side 100 per cent, because I will be there for them.

Merseyside Police said it regretted that there has been a grave miscarriage of justice in this case. The force added it was not aware about the new allegations of him being beaten or threats to charge him with additional offences.

It admitted that Mr Sullivan was refused legal advice for some of his police interviews.
First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance spent Wednesday visiting military service members and their families at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to thank them for their service ahead of the holiday season  though part of the first ladys message was briefly cut off due to tech issues.

While addressing servicemembers and families in the Lejeune High School gymnasium, Trumps microphone began emitting loud feedback, forcing the first lady to stop her speech and hand over the mic to be fixed.

After a roughly 15-second intermission, the first lady restarted her speech, in which she thanked military families for supporting servicemembers.

Lets start again, this is much better, Trump said, leading to applause from the audience for the working microphone.

"I want to thank you, all of you, because you are military families behind our nation's defense, and thank you for your service. My husband, the president, is sending best regards. We are both thinking of you, and youre in our thoughts and prayers for holidays, every day, but especially for the holidays, Trump said.

Melania Trump was taken off guard during a speech a military base high school after her microphone began emitting large feedback (AP)

She thanked those who helped package 2,000 care packages for service members stationed away from home and invited audience members to visit her at the White House.

Trumps brief speech came after she and Vance visited a high school classroom to meet with students taking advanced placement classes, discuss artificial intelligence advancement and listen to a presentation on how social media impacts adolescents wellbeing.

Trump has made educating young people about artificial intelligence and encouraging its implementation in innovation part of her initiatives during her second stint as first lady.

Trump and Vance also visited DeLalio Elementary School, where they met with young students and discussed the first ladys Be Best initiatives  her first-term campaign to encourage kindness and discourage cyberbullying.

As second lady, Vance has made childhood literacy a key initiative of hers. This past summer, she launched a Summer Reading Challenge that offered prizes to encourage young students to read more.

Trump met with young students at DeLalio Elementary School at Marine Corps Air Station New River as part of a Thanksgiving message to military families (AFP via Getty Images)

After meeting with families, Trump and Vance addressed service members and their families at Marine Corps Air Station New River, where Vance praised military families for serving as a model for our country.

Today, Ive had the privilege of spending time with your families at the elementary and high school on base, Vance said. At a time when children around the country are struggling, it is so heartening to see thriving schools and engaged students.

Trump also praised the military base schools for encouraging the use of AI to innovate, reminding service members that students will lead the Marine Corps in the future.

Lejeune High School demonstrated today that its ready to lead, Trump said. The schools ecosystem of educators, administrators, parents, and students is poised to drive innovation for America. They have fully embraced the presidential artificial intelligence challenge, showcasing creativity and technical vision for the future of AI.
Gil Clark, 78, has been missing since August, though authorities believe he may have been dragged away by a bear or mountain lion near his home in northern California (Sierra County Sheriff's Office )

An elderly man who went missing in August was likely dragged away by a bear or mountain lion after suffering a medical emergency near his home in northern California, officials said.

Authorities have been investigating the disappearance of Gil Clark, 78, since he was reported missing on August 14, but said in a recent update that it seemed Clark had been dragged off by a bear or mountain lion after a medical emergency.

Clark was known to walk a four-mile stretch of Highway 49 between Downieville and his hometown of Goodyears Bar, located about 102 miles north of Sacramento along the Yuba River.

At the time he was reported missing, authorities conducted a thorough search, but found no signs of the missing man, authorities said.

During their search, authorities witnessed significant bear activity, and neighbors reported recent mountain lion activity in the vicinity, the sheriffs office said.

Gil Clark, 78, has been missing since August, though authorities believe he may have been dragged away by a bear or mountain lion near his home in northern California (Sierra County Sheriff's Office)

Deputies continued to search for Clark and, on November 14, found clothing and items belonging to the missing man, the sheriffs office said.

The following day, search and rescue personnel, along with four cadaver dogs, conducted an extensive search, authorities said, adding, Unfortunately, no further evidence was located.

The 78-year-old is believed to have been last seen in Downieville, several miles down the road from Goodyears Bar, on either August 5 or 6, the Sierra County Sheriffs Office said in August.

The Sierra County Sheriffs Office says the case remains open and deputies will continue to investigate all leads.
Drivers have accused a council of money-making from a scheme that targets drivers during 'school gate' times. (SWNS)

Medway Council is facing mounting criticism from motorists who say a traffic enforcement scheme outside local schools has become more about generating income than improving road safety.

Drivers claim the restrictions, which bar vehicles from entering certain roads in Kent during busy pick-up and drop-off times, are confusing, unfairly applied and have triggered thousands of penalty notices since their introduction last year.

The timed bans apply outside 11 Medway schools each weekday morning and afternoon, with residents, parents and visitors all required to follow set rules or risk being fined.

The restrictions operate as access closures, meaning the roads become pedestrian and cycle-only during set times rather than functioning as anti-speeding zones.

But many locals argue that the scheme has pushed congestion into surrounding streets and has still not resolved concerns about speeding near the school gates.

Parents of children at Burnt Oak Primary School in Kent have been fined for breaching the restrictions.

Frustrations have escalated around Burnt Oak Primary School in Gillingham, where some households say they have repeatedly had to challenge fines  despite having exemptions.

Others insist the signage is too small or complicated, causing drivers to enter the restricted zones without realising.

It has now emerged that Medway Council has issued almost 25,000 penalty charge notices (PCNs) since the scheme launched in March 2024  generating nearly 680,000 in fines.

Several residents say the figures reinforce their belief that the scheme is driven more by revenue than road safety.

Mother-of-eight Charmaine Gordon said: I can understand it, because there were cars speeding down and it was dangerous for children. But at the same time, its a nuisance. Its just to make money for the council.

Theyre trying to make money because they are losing money in a lot of ways.

Dayna Rowe says she was forced to pay a fine after moving in in May and not knowing about the restrictions. (SWNS)

"They did have a lollipop lady who was there for years, but they really need some sort of parents' car park."

Others say they support the idea of safer streets but believe the execution has fallen short.

Dayna Rowe, who moved into a neighbouring road in May, said she was fined before she realised the restrictions existed.

It was my fault, but its a very small sign and a lot of people are caught by them, the 36-year-old said.

People used [the road] as a cut-through and the restrictions have pushed them onto this road now. Its a nightmare. I cant even get out of my own driveway sometimes.

The restrictions in the area have led to thousands of fines being issued in just 18 months. (SWNS)

One parent, who asked not to be named, said her partner had been fined three times despite having his vehicle registered as exempt, while another resident said that while they support safer school roads, the rules create difficulties for visitors and delivery drivers.

Long-term resident Adrian Pender said the signs are too wordy for drivers to interpret quickly.

The 40-year-old said: "If youre driving, theres so much description that youre not going to read it. I have to warn all my family members not to go down that road."

Parents have also raised concerns about parking. Mother-of-two Demi Hunt said restricted access and limited free spaces forces people to arrive unusually early and "fight to get a spot".

Demi Hunt said there was always a fight to get a spot when picking up children. (SWNS)

Medway Council confirmed that from March 2024 to October 2025, 24,669 PCNs were issued under the School Streets initiative, amounting to 678,690 in payments.

The authority said the initiative was "designed to create safer, healthier streets for all of Medways children" and that warning notices were issued for first-time contraventions during the first six months.

A spokesperson said: "We will continue to review the scheme and hope most residents, road users and parents appreciate the impact it is having to improve safety."

How to appeal a PCN

If you believe you have been wrongly issued with a PCN, you can lodge an appeal directly with the enforcing council  which must usually be done within 28 days of the notice being served.

You should first check that all details  like the date, time and location of the alleged contravention  are accurate.

Once done, you should submit your evidence  such as proof of exemption, photographs or witness statements  and if the challenge is rejected, you can make a formal representation when receiving a notice to owner.

If the council rejects the representation, the case can be referred to an independent tribunal, where the decision is final.

PCNs are typically reduced by 50% if paid within 14 days, but appealing will freeze the discount period until the case is decided.

What are the most common PCNs for drivers?

Data on the most common PCNs for drivers varies by council.

While each local authority sets its own enforcement priorities, some of the most frequently issued PCNs, according to the RAC, include driving in restricted zones  such as school streets, bus gates or low-traffic neighbourhoods  as well as parking on double yellow lines, outside designated parking bays or in cycle lanes.

Penalty charge notices can be issued for parking or driving infractions. (PA) (Piere Bonbon)

Entering a bus lane during its hours of operation will also land drivers with a PCN, while failing to pay for parking can also lead to a fine.

PCNs can also be imposed for driving in a yellow box junction, driving the wrong way down a one-way street and failing to give way to oncoming road users.

In London, motorists can also receive a PCN for failing to pay the congestion charge or for driving in the ULEZ zone.

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Nearly 500 migrants a day are signing up for benefits as claims by foreign nationals hit a record high, official figures show.

Last month, some 472 migrants a day began claiming Universal Credit, while the overall number of foreign nationals receiving it rose to nearly 1.3 million, an increase of 6.7 per cent in a year.

The disclosure comes as Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, will on Thursday announce new laws making migrants right to settle in the UK dependent on not claiming benefits.

Under the new system of earned settlement, their rights to indefinite leave to remain (ILR) will depend on their ability to support themselves without claiming benefits, paying National Insurance, having a clean criminal record, speaking English to a high standard and volunteering in the community.

Migrants will have to wait 10 years rather than the current five before being able to claim ILR, unless they are making a particularly significant contribution to society, whether financially or through voluntary and charitable work.

Those who are reliant on benefits, break the law or fail to make any contribution will face a longer wait for ILR and could face removal from the UK when their existing visas come up for renewal.

A source told The Telegraph: The baseline becomes 10 years. Lots of contribution, and you may be able to earn ILR earlier. Failure to contribute in certain ways and it will be later. Failure to contribute in other ways will be entirely disqualifying.

The 1.6 million migrants who have come to Britain since 2020 as part of the Boriswave influx  and who become eligible to seek ILR from January  will also now face a 10-year wait on claiming benefits under rules that will be applied to them retrospectively.

The Government fears that without taking action, these migrants could add hundreds of millions of pounds to the benefits bill because more than 800,000 are in low-paid work, meaning they and their families could be eligible for Universal Credit.

Ms Mahmoods crackdown on legal migration on Thursday follows her announcement of major asylum reforms on Monday, which ended refugees automatic right to stay in the UK and forced those who remain to wait for 20 years for permanent settlement.

Shabana Mahmood is to announce new laws making migrants right to settle in the UK dependent on not claiming benefits - Jeff Overs/BBC

The moves come as Labour is seeking to claw back Reform UKs lead in the polls. This autumn, Nigel Farage, the Reform leader, announced plans to strip ILR status from hundreds of thousands of non-EU citizens who already had it and force them to reapply for visas under stricter criteria, including a higher salary requirement and better standard of English.

The Tories have pledged to bar jobless and low-paid migrants from settling indefinitely in the UK. Only those who have been net contributors to the economy over a decade would be entitled to ILR.

Chris Philp, the shadow home secretary, said: I believe that foreign citizens should not be given any benefits at all, unless we are obliged by international treaty. That will end this huge con where British taxpayers are being made to subsidise immigrants.

The official data show that 1.27 million migrants were claiming Universal Credit last month, the highest number on record and up from 883,000 in spring 2022. That represents a rise of 44 per cent in less than four years.

The majority of claimants  762,000  are those granted the right to stay under the EU settlement scheme. Some 219,000 have been granted ILR, largely after coming to the UK on work visas, while 125,000 are refugees and 77,000 came through the family reunion route.

There were 14,451 new claimants last month, representing a daily rate of 472 signing up for welfare benefits.

A Government spokesman said: The number of Universal Credit claimants across all categories  including British nationals  has been increasing as we have invited tens of thousands of people each month to move from legacy benefits onto the modernised system.

Overall, the proportion of claimants in this country who are foreign nationals has fallen since October 2024.
Nicki Minaj is going all in for MAGA while Trumps covert drug war is devastating her homeland of Trinidad

Nicki Minaj, who once sang, Island girl, Donald Trump want me go home, in what was widely recognised as a takedown of the then-president-elects migrant-deporting rhetoric, has changed her tune.

Nine years later, the Trinidadian-born rapper has stunned fans by apparently coming out as a supporter of the president, most recently by backing him in an address to the United Nations.

Following a string of MAGA-supporting posts on social media, on Tuesday, Minaj threw her support behind Trumps allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria, saying she wanted to highlight "the deadly threat."

The Trump administrations military actions in the Caribbean are having a profound impact on Minajs home island of Trinidad. Minaj was born in Trinidad, her family moved to The Bronx in New York when she was five years old.

Rap icon Nicki Minaj was just five years old when her family moved from Trinidad to New York City (AFP via Getty Images)

A series of lethal strikes on alleged drug boats off the coast of Venezuela, which critics have said amount to extrajudicial murder, is being acutely felt in Trinidad, just seven miles away from the Venezuelan coast at its closest point, with Trinidadians being among those killed and with bodies washing up on beaches.

The families of two men from Trinidad have demanded evidence to back up U.S. allegations that those killed were trafficking drugs.

Recent reports suggest the deadly U.S. strikes mean fishing off the coast of Trinidad is now considered to be increasingly dangerous by locals, with some saying the value of their catch has fallen as theyve stayed closer to shore.

Introduced by Trumps ambassador to the United Nations on Tuesday, Mike Waltz, Minaj thanked both him and Trump and said it was an honor to help highlight the deadly threats faced by thousands of Christians in Nigeria.

I stand here as a proud New Yorker with a deep sense of gratitude that we live in a country where we can freely and safely worship God regardless of ones creed, background, or politics, she said.

No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion, like I recently stated on social media. And we dont have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.

Minaj on stage this year. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion, she told the UN this week (Getty Images for Live Nation)

Her intervention comes after Trump claimed Christianity faces an "existential threat" in Nigeria and reportedly instructed the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action in the West African nation.

However, experts and residents offer a more nuanced perspective, noting that while some attacks have targeted Christians, both Christians and Muslims  the two main religious groups in the country of more than 230 million people  have been victims of attacks by radical Islamists.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has dismissed accusations it is failing to safeguard Christians, which make up about 50 per cent of its population, from violence, expressing astonishment at Trumps hint of possible U.S. military action.

We are shocked that President Trump is mulling an invasion of our country, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga told CNN, following reports that the U.S. leader had directed the Pentagon to prepare for potential action.

Nigerian human rights advocate Bulama Bukarti disputed Trumps view on the situation, saying the US presidents comments reflect a dangerous oversimplification of Nigerias complex security crisis.

Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj is greeted by US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz (AFP via Getty Images)

This week, the U.S. carried out its 20th attack on alleged drug-running boats in the region, bringing the death toll from the strikes that began in September to 80.

The latest attacks, which also included two strikes on boats on Sunday, come as the Trump administration expands the U.S. military's already significant presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, the nation's most advanced and largest warship, is expected to arrive in the coming days after traveling from the Mediterranean Sea.

According to critics, the arrival of the warship is the latest sally from the U.S. as it seeks to intimidate Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who faces charges of narcoterrorism in the U.S.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the U.S. doesnt recognize Maduro, who was widely accused of stealing last years election, as the leader of Venezuela and has called the government a transshipment organization that openly cooperates with those trafficking drugs toward the U.S.

In response, Maduro said the U.S. government is fabricating a war against him. Venezuelas government this week touted a massive mobilization of troops and civilians to defend against possible U.S. attacks.

The Independent has contacted Nicki Minaj and Trinidad and Tobagos embassy for comment.
At least nine people have been killed after Russia bombarded Ukraine with drones and missiles overnight, according to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.

The wave of attacks wounded dozens more and damaged energy and transport infrastructure, the president said.

Every brazen attack against ordinary life shows that the pressure on Russia is insufficient. Effective sanctions and assistance to Ukraine can change this, he said, calling for air defence missiles aid from allies.

Russia used more than 470 drones and 48 missiles in the attack, Mr Zelensky added.

Three districts of Ukraine's second city, Kharkiv, were hit by a massive drone attack which was reported to have injured 30 children.

Residents walk in front of an apartment building damaged during a morning Russian missile strike in Ternopil, Ukraine, on Wednesday, November 19 (via REUTERS)

The western cities of Ternopil and Lviv have also come under attack.

Ternopil endured significant destruction and civilians could still be trapped under the rubble, Zelensky said.

"Russia is once again attacking our energy infrastructure," Ukraine's Energy Ministry said on the Telegram messaging app. "Emergency power outages have been introduced in a number of regions of Ukraine."

The full extent of the damage was not immediately clear but power cuts were reported be affecting several Ukrainian regions.

Across many of our regions, work is underway to address the aftermath of Russias attack. It is confirmed that Russia launched more than 470 attack drones and 48 missiles of various types against Ukraine overnight  one ballistic and the rest cruise missiles.



In Ternopil, pic.twitter.com/EwQmc6Nv1S  Volodymyr Zelenskyy /   (@ZelenskyyUa) November 19, 2025

Ukrainian state media reported that a multi-storey residential building had been hit in Ternopil, while a Reuters witness reported power disruptions in Lviv during the attack.

Regional Governor Maksym Kozytskyi said on Telegram that the attack damaged an energy facility and hit an industrial site in Lviv region but caused no casualties, without providing further details.

Images shared on Ukrainian news-monitoring Telegram channels showed a tower block in Ternopil with its upper floors torn away beneath a towering column of black smoke, an orange glow of fire still burning through the haze.

Poland, a NATO member bordering western Ukraine, has temporarily closed Rzeszow and Lublin airports in the southeast of the country and scrambled Polish and allied aircraft as a precaution to safeguard its airspace.
In the late 1970s Pam Zinkin moved to Mozambique to help rebuild the newly independent countrys healthcare system Photograph: none

My mother, Pamela Zinkin, who has died aged 94, was a consultant paediatrician credited with saving the lives of children all over the world. She was also a lifelong campaigner for the NHS.

In 1977, by then a single parent with two young sons, Pam moved to newly independent Mozambique to work as a senior paediatrician, then head of paediatrics, at Maputo central hospital. The countrys healthcare was in a precarious state, with 80% of its doctors having left after independence in 1975. Within five years, Pam and her team had reduced mortality among the 8,000 annual child admissions from 25% to 4%.

Pams expertise in child development, disability and war was later sought by the WHO, Unicef, British Council and Save the Children Fund, and she travelled all over the world to help set up and evaluate projects. She was also a trustee or adviser to many charities, notably Medical Aid for Palestinians, Ideals and Oxfam.

Born in London, Pam was the daughter of Mary (nee McMeekin), a typist, and Peter Zinkin, a fur cutter who later became a journalist. Following her parents divorce, Pam was raised by her mother and stepfather, George Ives, a postman. At the outbreak of the second world war she was evacuated to Garnant, a mining village in south Wales.

Back in London, Pam went to Addey and Stanhope school in New Cross, before being admitted to Leeds University medical school in 1951. Following her graduation in 1956 she worked at Great Ormond Street, Queen Charlottes and Guys hospitals, before becoming a senior lecturer in child health at the Institute of Child Health, University of London, with consultant status at Great Ormond Street.

During this time she was also involved with the anti-Vietnam war and anti-apartheid movements, and then with supporting the independence struggle in Mozambique, while also raising her sons  me, from a relationship with Andre Pen that ended before I was born, and Colin, whom she adopted as a single parent.

She took us both to Mozambique, where Pam became a cooperante  these were experts from across the world who helped the Mozambican government fill the skills gap and train Mozambicans. In Maputo, she reorganised the medical and nursing teams and helped train a new generation of doctors. Many of her former students are now in senior positions in Mozambique.

Back in the UK from 1982, she worked as a consultant paediatrician at Whittington hospital, north London, before returning to her role at the Institute of Child Health and setting up courses in community-based rehabilitation for disabled people and the care of children in war and disaster.

Pam never truly retired. As well as her consultancy work for NGOs and charities, she lobbied for the NHS.

She had friends of all ages, swam at Hampstead Heath, took piano and mandarin lessons into her 90s, and danced with the Company of Elders at Sadlers Wells.

Pam is survived by Colin and me, and her granddaughter, Emma.
Pieminister has announced plans to temporarily close its online store ahead of Black Friday.

The pie chain said it made the decision following a large demand for orders last year that put immense pressure on its courier partners, causing pies to go missing or be severely delayed.

"As a business committed to eradicating edible food waste.... thats the last thing we want to see," Pieminister said in an email to customers on Monday.

"So, were taking proactive steps to prevent it from happening again. Our shop will reopen right after this short break, giving you plenty of time to stock up on your favourites - including our festive specials - in good time for Christmas."

Pieministers online shop will be closed from Wednesday, November 19, to Wednesday, November 26. Black Friday takes place in the UK on Friday, November 28.

Customers will still be able to order pies and merchandise online, however orders placed on or after November 19 will be delivered from Tuesday December 2 at the earliest, according to Bristol Live.

Pieminister was launched by friends Tristan Hogg and Jon Simon in Stokes Croft in 2003, and has since expanded into a company employing hundreds of people around the UK.

In 2022, Pieministers Gluten Free Mooless Pie won the British Pie Awards.

Matthew OCallaghan, chairman of the Melton Mowbray Pork Pie Association and host of the British Pie Awards, said: Being vegetarian and gluten free, Pieministers Mooless Pie is an everybodys pie, be they vegetarian or meat eater, gluten tolerant or intolerant. Serve this at a meal and almost everyones a winner.

Today, Pieminister has two restaurants in Bristol and locations in Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, Oxford and Stoke-on-Trent.

Previously, the business has used Black Friday to raise money for charity. During Black Pieday, the company gave away pies in exchange for donations to homelessness charity Shelter.

According to Pieminister's latest impact report, it has donated 270,113 pies and raised over 36,000 for charitable causes in the last five years.

"Being one of the UK's most-loved pie brands comes with real responsibility," the report said.

"The food industry contributes to climate change while being incredibly vulnerable to it. We're already seeing devastating effects worldwide, affecting millions of lives right now.

"We still have a window to prevent the worst impacts, but only if we act immediately. Every business needs to stop talking and start doing. The future depends on it."
Donald Trump speaks to members of the press aboard Air Force One on 14 November 2025. Photograph: Roberto Schmidt/Getty Images

Its one outrage in days full of outrageous material.

Quiet, piggy, Donald Trump told a female reporter in a press gaggle, pointing his finger at her angrily.

It wasnt the first time  not even the hundredth time  the US president has attacked the media. And its hard for any storyline to break through the administrations flood the zone strategy, much less one like this. Nothing seems to stick. But the quiet, piggy clip has taken off, several days after the admonishment occurred on Air Force One last Friday, and without much help from the media itself.

I dont know why the Piggy thing is bothering me so much, wrote Hank Green, a YouTuber and author. Its one more unforgivable thing in a list of 20,000 unforgivable things, but Ive been mad about it for like 12 straight hours.

Trump is going through a string of losses: Democrats dominating in off-year elections, having to reverse course on the Epstein files, Republicans refusing to get rid of the filibuster to end the shutdown, a faltering economy. Theres a possibility that hes losing his air of impenetrability, and his grip on the right could maybe, just maybe, be loosening.

The anger he displayed in the clip could be a sign of someone on the back foot, overreacting to a question Bloomberg correspondent Catherine Lucey was asking about why Trump was fighting against releasing the Epstein files if theres nothing incriminating in the files. The files related to the child sexual abuser released so far by Congress show that Epstein communicated regularly, and derogatorily, about women with a host of prominent friends.

Lashing out at a female reporter with a derogatory insult amid a news cycle dominated by politicians splitting hairs over a man who ran a sex-trafficking outfit  it was pretty on the nose.

But the clip also pinged around the internet in the same news cycle as Trump telling another female reporter it was rude to ask Saudi Arabian crown prince Mohammed bin Salman about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, a Saudi journalist whom the CIA determined was killed at the direction of the crown prince.

Youre mentioning somebody that was extremely controversial, Trump said of Khashoggi, responding to a question from ABC Newss Mary Bruce. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you like him, or didnt like him, things happen. But he knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that. You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.

The combined force of two outbursts at female journalists in a single news cycle  for asking about a child sexual abuser and a murdered colleague  went beyond the standard-fare Trumpian attacks on the media.

Part of the collective ire could be that no one in the press gaggle jumped to Luceys defense in the video, underlining that those attacked by Trump often stand alone while others fear becoming next on his list; the media backbone that stiffened in his first term has wilted, under exhaustion and at the hands of Trump-friendly owners, in his second. The condemnations of Trump and accolades for both journalists came after the fact.

These incidents are not isolated; they are part of an unmistakable pattern of hostility  often directed at women  that undermines the essential role of a free and independent press, the Society of Professional Journalists said in a statement Wednesday.

The White House, meanwhile, has doubled down on the comment, saying Lucey had behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane, providing no details on what that meant. If youre going to give it, you have to be able to take, they said.

Beyond the clips power to outrage, though, is a sign that the leftwing media ecosystem and its creators are starting to command attention and elevate stories that media outlets arent jumping on.

Related: BBC should not pay Trump any money, says former director general Tony Hall

As Democratic digital strategist Parker Butler pointed out on X, the quiet, piggy clip grabbed millions of views on online accounts four days after it happened, saying: It got almost NO coverage when he said it  A viral post can shape an entire news cycle.

And some Democrats whove taken the strategy of being Trump back to Trump, including California governor Gavin Newsoms press office, are using the clip to bully the president back, Photoshopping Trumps face onto pigs and repeatedly tweeting quiet, piggy.

In Trump 2.0, you never know which affronts to decency will stick in peoples minds. This one, though, has a symbolism that seems to be resonating.

Portland has reclaimed the frog as a symbol of its resistance to Trumps efforts to militarize the city, former US attorney and commentator Joyce Alene wrote on X. Perhaps women should claim the glamorous, sassy Muppet Miss Piggy, a known diva with a fierce karate chop, as their own symbol.
Nigel Farages party confirmed to the Guardian that Pickup had been suspended on Wednesday pending an investigation. Photograph: Phil Noble/Reuters

A Reform UK councillor has been suspended for participating in a WhatsApp group where members allegedly called for a mass Islam genocide.

Tom Pickup, who was elected to Lancashire county council in May, confirmed to the Guardian he was a member of the group set up by a rightwing activist.

In one exchange, one person said Keir Starmer needs a fucking bullet, to which another replied: Hes a DICKtator.

Pickup responded by calling the prime minister a dicktaker.

In other messages, he called a government minister a Ukrainian boy penetrator and said he agreed with mass deportations. He posted: Everyone in Reform is a lot more hardline on immigration than is typically stated publicly, to get a majority government we have to be tactical.

Nigel Farages party confirmed to the Guardian that Pickup had been suspended on Wednesday pending an investigation.

Pickup, who was the councils lead member for resources and finance, admitted he was a member of the group but said his messages had been twisted out of context. He said he was not aware of the more extreme posts, which included one person allegedly calling for a mass Islam genocide and encouraging others to stockpile weapons to attack lefties and migrants.

Pickup said his comment about Starmer being a dicktaker was a jokey comment but had been poor judgment. He told the Guardian: 99% of what occurs in groups, I dont see. Based on my involvement in it and what I have seen, Ive been my usual jokey self and its been twisted out of context.

Pickup said he had left the group this week when screenshots of his messages were posted on social media. He said he had tried to find other posts but that messages after 24 hours were automatically deleted so they had been lost.

Asked whether he supported calls for a mass Islam genocide, Pickup said: Of course not. Ive done a lot of community engagement work with the Islamic community. Its something that I would have condemned and probably reported but I dont know if they [the messages] are genuine. Ive not seen them.

Samara Barnes, a Labour councillor on Lancashire county council, called for Pickup to resign as a councillor and said she had reported him to the authoritys standards watchdog. She added: We are at a time when were living in a tinderbox and if people are suggesting we should be having an Islam genocide, this is domestic terrorism.

Weve seen what can happen when people become radicalised, people become emboldened to do really nasty things. This is beyond an apology or some training. This is more serious and Reform UK need to really take a stand.

A spokesperson for Lancashire county council said: We are aware that county councillor Tom Pickup has been suspended from Reform UK pending investigation. Cllr Pickup remains a councillor, sitting as an independent.

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People who were at school with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claim he displayed offensive behaviour as a boy, including giving Nazi salutes and making racial slurs.

The Clacton MP, who could potentially be the UKs next prime minister, as his party leads in opinion polls, emphatically denies allegations in The Guardian that he used racist or antisemitic insults as a teenager.

He suggested that the paper was attempting to smear Reform.

One former contemporary at Dulwich College in south London told The Guardian he felt humiliated by the antisemitic words of a 13-year-old Mr Farage, who allegedly also urged pupils of overseas heritage to go home.

Peter Ettedgui, now an award-winning director and producer, told the paper: He would sidle up to me and growl: Hitler was right, or Gas them, sometimes adding a long hiss to simulate the sound of the gas showers.

The Clacton MP denies allegations in The Guardian that he used racist or antisemitic insults as a teenager (Yui Mok/PA)

He added: I wasnt his only target. Id hear him calling other students p*** or w**, and urging them to go home. I tried to ignore him, but it was humiliating. It was shaming.

Mr Ettedgui said Mr Farage could suddenly become charming, adding: Id like to know why hes never owned up or shown the slightest contrition.

A second pupil from a minority ethnic background claimed that, when Mr Farage was 17, he asked where the pupil was from and pointed away, saying: Thats the way back.

Professor Dave Edmonds, 61, another Jewish ex-pupil, told The Guardian he had a strong memory of Mr Farage using the w-word for what we now call people of Afro-Caribbean origin and the p-word for those of south Asian origin.

He added: I dont remember being on the receiving end of antisemitic remarks, though of course he made outrageous comments about the war. I dont think Jews were his main racial preoccupation. He was generally obsessed, as he is now, with the erosion of Britishness.

The Clacton MP could potentially be the UKs next prime minister since his party is ahead in opinion polls (PA)

But some pupils told The Guardian only that he was bumptious, rude, provocative and enjoyed being the centre of attention, insisting they did not remember him using racist language.

There is no evidence that Mr Farage has ever been a member of far-right organisations, nor is there a suggestion that he holds the views ascribed to him as a boy.

In legal letters to The Guardian, he questioned the public interest in reporting historic allegations.

A Reform UK spokesperson said: These allegations are entirely without foundation. The Guardian has produced no contemporaneous record or corroborating evidence to support these disputed recollections from nearly 50 years ago.

It is no coincidence that this newspaper seeks to discredit Reform UK, a party that has led in over 150 consecutive opinion polls and whose leader bookmakers now have as the favourite to be the next prime minister.

We fully expect these cynical attempts to smear Reform and mislead the public to intensify further as we move closer to the next election.
A Russian spy ship is lurking near British waters where it directed lasers at UK military pilots who were surveilling its activities, the defence secretary has said.

Royal Navy frigates and RAF P-8 planes had been deployed to monitor the Yantar vessel, which is designed for gathering intelligence, when the Russians directed the lasers at the planes.

Defence secretary John Healey said Britain is ready to respond, with military options drawn up if the ship heads south, in a warning to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

He told a Westminster press conference: My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what youre doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

But what is the Yantar vessel  and what is it doing near British territory?

The Yantar, a research ship

Yantar is a special-purpose vessel built by the Russian Navys secretive Main Directorate of Underwater Research (GUGI), an element of Russias armed forces  although it reports directly to the Ministry of Defence.

Its objective, according to the Council on Geostrategy, a non-profit think tank based in Westminster, London, is to operate submarines that can gather intelligence on the deep sea, allowing possible sabotage of underwater cables.

Defence secretary John Healey called the Yantars actions deeply dangerous (Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright)

The ship, which was launched in 2012 and commissioned for work in 2015, is 107.8m (354 ft) long and can reach a speed of 15knots (28kph).

It has since been spotted carrying out operations near the Caribbean islands, Brazil, Norway, Greenland, the Mediterranean and Ireland, among other areas.

In January, Yantar was spotted near British waters, with Mr Healey describing it as another example of growing Russian aggression.

What is Yantar doing?

When Yantar approached British waters in January, Mr Healey said the ship was used for mapping the UKs critical water infrastructure.

On Wednesday, he echoed those comments.

It is part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk, he said.

It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

The UK and Nato allies are increasingly concerned about the risk Moscow poses to offshore cables, pipelines and other infrastructure critical to internet connectivity.

Undated handout photo issued by the Ministry of Defence of the Russian spy ship Yantar operating on the edge of UK waters (Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright)

Use of lasers an escalation, warns expert

The Yantar directed lasers at two RAF planes, in a move described by Mr Healey as deeply dangerous.

Anything that impedes, disrupts or puts at risk pilots in charge of British military planes is deeply dangerous, he said. This is the first time weve had this action from Yantar directed against the British RAF  we take it extremely seriously.

Elisabeth Braw, a senior fellow at American security think tank the Atlantic Council, told BBC Radio 4s World at One that it was an escalation for sure.

She added: Essentially, you do it to impede the pilots from doing their work. We dont know exactly how strong the lasers were, but even if they didnt blind the pilots, it was provocative.

The ship directed lasers at an RAF P-8 aircraft (Getty)

Is Britain vulnerable?

Mr Healey has sought to reassure the British public and warn off Moscow, saying that if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

Attacks on undersea cables could cause catastrophic disruption to the financial and communications systems Britons rely on, the National Security Strategy committee warned in a September report.

The Yantar has been within the UKs exclusive economic zone, which extends up to 200 nautical miles  about 230 miles  offshore, but has been on the edge of Britains territorial waters, within 12 nautical miles (13.8 miles) from the coast.

But Dr Sidharth Kaushal, an expert in maritime technology at the RUSI think tank, told Sky News the undersea cables near the UK are relatively redundant, but warned the pipelines delivering gas could be more vulnerable to attack.

I think in some ways the pipeline network is far more fragile because there we are more reliant on a handful of critical pipelines, he said.
The defence secretary has issued a stark warning to Vladimir Putin after a Russian spy ship operating on the edge of UK waters directed lasers at RAF pilots.

John Healey said the Yantar was operating north of Scotland and had pointed lasers at pilots of surveillance aircraft monitoring its activities in a deeply dangerous move.

In a defiant stand against the action, he told a Westminster press conference on Wednesday: "My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what you're doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready."

The Russian embassy in the UK hit back, accusing the government of being Russophobic and whipping up militaristic hysteria.

The pilots targeted by the lasers, understood to have happened within the past two weeks, had been monitoring the ships activities after it breached UK waters for the second time this year.

UK forces have been closely monitoring Russian vessels, including the spy ship Yantar (Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright)

Mr Healey said its presence was designed to put... our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.

He said: It is part of a Russian fleet. It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

That was why, he said, whenever the Yantar comes into British wider waters we track it, we deter it and we say to Putin we are ready, and we do that alongside allies.

He added: It is a demonstration, if you like, of a British readiness to act, a British capability to act, because, make no mistake, we will not tolerate a threat to the British peoples essential connections under water.

He also warned the UK "must step up" in a "new era of hard power", saying "our world is less predictable, it is more dangerous, as he pointed to the Israel-Iran war in the Middle East and armed conflict which broke out earlier this year between India and Pakistan, as well as Chinese spies targeting MPs.

A thermal image of the Yantar off the British coast this week (PA)

In the past year, he said, Europe's skies had been plagued by drone disruptions, while Russian incursions into Nato airspace had doubled, and there have been 90,000 cyber attacks on the UK defence system alone.

Hitting back at Mr Healeys condemnation, a translated statement from the Russian embassy said the endless accusations and suspicions of the British leadership cause only a smile. It dismissed claims that the ship was spying and said its actions were not aimed at undermining the UK's security.

However, London, with its Russophobic course and whipping up militaristic hysteria, contributes to the further degradation of European security, creating the prerequisites for new dangerous situations. We call on the British side to refrain from destructive steps that exacerbate the crisis on the European continent, it added.

Mr Healeys warning to Russia came as a damning new report by MPs warned that Britain is not ready to defend itself from a major attack.

The Commons defence committee issued a stark message about the UKs ability to fight a war and meet its Nato obligations in the wake of Putins war in Ukraine, saying Britain does not currently have a plan to protect itself.

The parliamentary committees report warned that the UK lacks a plan for defending the homeland and overseas territories, as they called for the public to be given more information about the scale of the threat and the response that is required.

Healey has has warned Putin that we see you, we are ready (AP)

The committees chair, Labours Tan Dhesi, said: Putins brutal invasion of Ukraine, unrelenting disinformation campaigns, and repeated incursions into European airspace mean that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand.

He added: We have repeatedly heard concerns about the UKs ability to defend itself from attack. Government must be willing to grasp the nettle and prioritise homeland defence and resilience.

In achieving this, government cannot shy away from direct engagement with the public. Wars arent won just by generals but by the whole of the population getting behind the armed forces and playing our part.

There needs to be a coordinated effort to communicate with the public on the level of threat we face and what to expect in the event of conflict.

Meanwhile, a deal between the UK and the European Union on access to the blocs defence fund appears to be at an impasse, but Mr Healey said that the UK is not ready to be willing at any price to secure access.

Negotiations are underway on how much the UK should pay to participate in the EUs new 150bn security action for Europe (Safe) rearmament fund.

Later on Wednesday, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper said the UK would be "vigilant and determined" in its response to Putin's Russia.

At a press conference in Berlin with her counterpart Johann Wadephul, she said: "We see what Putin is doing and we understand and we will continue to be vigilant and determined in our response.

"Just as we have been about incursions into Nato airspace, just as we are being now in terms of identifying the Russian spy ship in UK waters and just as we have continued to be in response to sabotage threats that we have seen across many different European countries as well. It will not deter us from supporting Ukraine, quite the opposite, because we know Ukraine's security is our security."
The health secretary, Wes Streeting, appeared to signal that he has sympathy with some of the worries of Labour MPs. Photograph: Toby Melville/Reuters

Wes Streeting has admitted he is not comfortable with forcibly deporting families under the home secretarys migration plans, while maintaining it is still the right thing to do.

The health secretary said he thought the number of forced removals would be low under the proposed model, which is similar to Denmarks, because there would be an increased financial incentive for people entering the UK illegally to return to their country of origin.

When pressed on whether he was comfortable with a policy that dozens of Labour MPs oppose, however, Streeting said: Honestly? Comfortable? No. But is it the right thing to do for the country? Yes.

In an interview with LBC, he said Shabana Mahmood was making sure that we, where people have got no right to be here, that we are deporting them, but also supporting them to be relocated as well  so actually the number of forced removals should be low.

Streetings comments appeared to signal that he has sympathy with some of the worries of Labour MPs, two dozen of whom have raised concerns about families being forcibly removed if they refuse cash incentives to return to their own country.

Keir Starmer and Mahmood are facing the threat of a revolt over the policy at a time when the soft left of the party is expressing growing discontent with Labours leadership.

The policy also came in for criticism internationally on Wednesday when Albanias prime minister, Edi Rama, accused Mahmood of ethnic stereotyping and indecent demagoguery.

Rama, who leads the countrys Socialist party, questioned how a Labour politician could so poorly echo the rhetoric of the populist far-right after Mahmoods officials singled out 700 Albanian families for deportation.

He wrote on X: How can a Labour home secretary so poorly echo the rhetoric of the populist far-right  and single out 700 Albanian families, a statistical drop in the ocean of post-Brexit Britains challenges  precisely at a moment when the UK and Albania have built one of Europes most successful partnerships on illegal migration?

Albanians are net contributors to the British economy, and the number of Albanians receiving UK benefits is very low relative to other communities. To single them out again and again is not policy  it is a troubling and indecent exercise in demagoguery.

The UK should be seeking ways to deepen cooperation with Albania on all security issues  from defence to border protection  rather than repeatedly scapegoating Albanians and thereby exposing citizens of an allied nation to increased risks, including from extremist groups that thrive on such narratives. Official policy should never be driven by ethnic stereotyping.

Related: Is this Labours hostile environment?  podcast

An Albanian government source said there were growing tensions between the Albanian and UK governments despite successful collaboration over immigration policies.

Ramas attack has also caused discomfort in Whitehall, because the western Balkans are seen as a major transit route for asylum seekers attempting to reach the UK.

UK border security officers were sent to Albania, Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Bosnia and Herzegovina over the summer to build links and gain intelligence on smuggling gangs, it has been confirmed.

Announcing the asylum policy on Monday, Mahmood said: We must remove those who have failed asylum claims, regardless of who they are.

Today, we are not removing family groups, even when we know that their home country is perfectly safe. There are, for instance, around 700 Albanian families living in taxpayer-funded accommodation having failed their asylum claims  despite an existing returns agreement, and Albania being a signatory to the European convention on human rights.

So we will now begin the removal of families. Where possible, we will encourage a voluntary return, but where an enforced return is necessary, that is what we will do.

The Home Office has claimed there are about 700 Albanian families in the UK with no right to be in the country but until now the Home Office has chosen not to prioritise sending them home.

Albanian asylum claims remain low, and there has been more than a 90% drop in Albanian small-boat arrivals since 2022.

Andi Hoxhaj, an associate fellow from the Royal United Services Institute, said the UK government appeared to be targeting and singling out Albanians in its rhetoric.

He said: We saw the same issue under the previous Conservative administration and both the Albanian community and the Albanian government are deeply frustrated by the return of this narrative.

This rhetoric seems increasingly tied to the governments push to reinterpret or reform ECHR provisions on family rights  using Albanians as an example to make a broader political argument, like the Reform and Conservatives have made by using Albanians as an example.

By specifically naming Albania, the home secretary is also responding to Farages messaging, as he has made Albanians a central part of his rhetoric.

This is not the first time that Rama, one of Europes more flamboyant leaders who knelt while greeting the Italian prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, at an EU summit in May, has criticised a UK home secretary.

In November 2022 he accused Suella Braverman of fuelling xenophobia and targeting, singling out a community when she accused some Albanians of abusing modern slavery laws.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We welcome the partnership with Albania on returns.

However, today thousands of failed asylum families are stuck in accommodation and support at taxpayers expense despite their home country being perfectly safe.

The government makes no apologies for beginning to remove families back home.
If your child has mild cold symptoms but no temperature, the NHS says they could be well enough for school. (Getty Images) (Johner Images via Getty Images)

It's that time of year again, when winter bugs seem to be everywhere and if your child is at school or nursery and in close contact with others, they're bound to pick up the odd illness or two.

Colder weather and more time spent indoors mean coughs and colds are spreading. Flu season has also started earlier than usual. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), increases in the virus were first seen among teenagers and young adults, followed by younger children.

Data from the health agency also shows that while norovirus activity is within expected levels for this time of year, at the moment, the highest rate of cases is in children.

If your child is feeling under the weather and you're not sure whether they're well enough for school or not, then, the NHS has some helpful advice covering a range of common conditions and illnesses to help you decide.

One of the common signs they may be better off at home is a high temperature and with other illnesses, such as diarrhoea and vomiting, you shouldn't send them to school until at least 48 hours after their symptoms have stopped.

Remember, though, you know your child best. If you're concerned, seek medical advice.

 When you should not send them to school

A high temperature

A high temperature is the body's natural response to fighting off an infection, such as a cough, cold, flu, or other illness and can be a key sign that it's best to keep them at home.

A normal body temperature can vary from child to child; however, a temperature of 38C or more is classed as high. If your child has a high temperature, give them plenty of fluids, monitor for signs of dehydration and check on them regularly.

You can also give them ibuprofen or paracetamol if they're uncomfortable, but make sure to check the packet first to ensure it's suitable for children and that you're administering the right amount.

How long should they stay home? If your child has a high temperature, the NHS advises keeping them at home until it returns to normal  this usually takes between one and four days.

Chickenpox

If your child has chickenpox, they should stay off school until all the spots have scabbed over. (Getty Images) (Tuomas A. Lehtinen via Getty Images)

Chickenpox spreads easily and can cause a high temperature and an itchy spotty rash. It can be dangerous for babies, pregnant people and those with a weakened immune system so your child should stay at home.

A free chickenpox vaccine will be rolled out on the NHS for children in England from January and is currently available privately at some pharmacies.

How long should they stay home? Keep kids off school until all their spots have formed a scab. This is usually around five days after they first appear. Your child should also avoid contact with anyone at increased risk.

Diarrhoea and vomiting

Often caused by a stomach bug, such as norovirus, diarrhoea and vomiting (known as D&V) can be highly contagious so you should keep your child at home and ensure they have plenty of rest and drink fluid regularly.

It's also important to note that medicines that stop diarrhoea for a few hours, like Imodium, should not be given to children under 12.

How long should they stay home? They should not go back to school until they've not been sick or had diarrhoea for at least 48 hours.

Measles

If you think your child may have measles, you should keep them off school or nursery and ask your GP for an urgent appointment. This may be a phone consultation, as measles is contagious.

The viral illness causes symptoms including a high temperature and cold-like symptoms, followed by white spots in the mouth and a rash. It spreads very easily and can be dangerous for some people, including babies, pregnant women and those with weakened immune systems.

The best way to prevent measles is with two doses of the MMR vaccine. This also protects against mumps and rubella. If you're unsure whether your child has been vaccinated, speak to your GP.

How long should they stay home? If your child has measles, they should not go to school for at least four days from when the rash first appears. They should also avoid contact with people at greater risk from the viral illness.

Scarlet fever

Scarlet fever is a contagious infection. It usually affects young children and can cause flu-like symptoms followed by a rash and a white coating on the tongue. The rash doesn't appear on the face, but your child's cheeks might look flushed.

Scarlet fever is treated with antibiotics from your GP  as it's contagious, they might suggest a phone consultation rather than going into the surgery.

How long should they stay home? You should keep your child off school or nursery for 24 hours after they take their first dose of antibiotics.

This UK Health Security Agency poster has some helpful guidance. (UKHSA) (UKHSA)

 When your child can go to school if they're not too unwell

A cough or cold

According to the NHS, as long as your child doesn't have a temperature, it's fine to send them to school with a slight cold or cough. If they have a fever, though, you should keep them off until it returns to normal.

Sore throat

If your child doesn't have a temperature and is not too unwell, they can go to school. A sore throat and a temperature, however, could be a sign of tonsillitis.

If your child has a mild cough or cold and no temperature, they may be well enough for school. (Getty Images) (Dobrila Vignjevic via Getty Images)

COVID

If your child has mild symptoms that you suspect could be COVID, such as a sore throat or runny nose and doesn't have a temperature or feel too unwell, then the NHS says they can go to school.

It's no longer recommended that children are routinely tested for COVID-19, unless you've been advised to do so by a health professional. If your child has tested positive, though, the current advice for under-18s is to stay at home and avoid contact with people for three days after they took the test. For adults, the advice is five days.

Hand, foot and mouth can cause a high temperature, mouth ulcers and a raised rash on the mouth and hands, and sometimes the groin and bottom.

If your child doesn't have a temperature or seem too unwell, the NHS says it's OK to send them to school or nursery. But, make sure you let their teachers know.

Read more about health:
(Getty Images)

The Manhattan Project was the name given to the top-secret programme to develop the first ever nuclear weapons during the Second World War. Its also the nickname Cathy Tie uses for her biotech start-up, Manhattan Genomics, which is working towards creating gene-edited babies. A jarring choice, perhaps, but Tie believes the technology is just as, if not more important. Also, I just love Manhattan, she says. Tie clearly understands the power of a catchy label  she is often referred to in the press as Biotech Barbie, a name she came up with herself.

The Manhattan Project 2.0 makes a bold claim: Were building a future where no child inherits preventable disease. It promises to prevent thousands of diseases, including sickle cell anaemia, cystic fibrosis and Huntingtons disease. All three are common monogenic diseases, meaning they are caused by a mutation in a single gene and can be passed down from parent to child.

I am honored to introduce the scientific and ethics contributors of Manhattan Genomics who will be working closely with us to make preventative pre-birth care a reality. As I've promised, we will continue to be transparent with the world on our journey every step of the way. https://t.co/Sxe6cJIAtx  Cathy Tie (@CathyTie) October 30, 2025

Biotech start-ups such as Manhattan Genomics have a proposition: to edit that single gene in a human embryo, thus eliminating the disease for that person and any future offspring.

Tech bros in Silicon Valley are paying attention. OpenAI founder Sam Altman and his husband Oliver Mulherin are among the early investors in Preventive, another start-up which wants to establish whether the latest gene-editing technology can safely be used to correct devastating genetic conditions for future children. Preventive was founded by Lucas Harrington, who gained his PhD in the lab of biochemist Jennifer Doudna, who won the Nobel Prize in 2020 for her pioneering discovery of the gene-editing tool Crispr.

Silicon Valley is all ears

Crispr-Cas9 is the only gene-editing therapy currently on the market. It works by making precise cuts to the affected DNA strand, causing the DNA to repair itself and, if all goes to plan, correct the mutation. In 2023, it was approved by the US Food and Drug Administration to treat patients with sickle cell disease. However, treatment is priced at $2.2m per patient, and the disease can still be passed on to offspring.

Its absurd that a technology thats supposed to be helping patients is actually bankrupting them, says Tie in a promotional video on YouTube. Tie believes that prevention is the best treatment, and that gene-editing embryos has the potential to revolutionise medicine. Crispr comes with risks: it can cause unintended genome edits, which could have drastic implications for an embryo. Tie and others are currently looking into whether a more precise tool called base-editing would be viable.

Sam Altman (Getty Images)

Editing genomes in embryos with the intention of creating a baby is currently illegal in the US, the UK and many other countries. Both Tie and Harrington are keen to stress that their companies are in the research phase, and they will only proceed if it is safe to do so. We will not compromise safety standards to accelerate timelines, writes Harrington in a statement on Preventives website.

Yet many in the scientific community feel that there is currently no appropriate timeline for such experimentation. I dont think that the technology is there to do this safely, says geneticist Adam Rutherford, who has written a book on the history of eugenics. We do not know enough about human genomics to be mucking around with this sort of stuff at this point in time. Rutherford and many other geneticists believe that the risks of introducing an unknown mutation into a child are currently far too high to be outweighed by the potential benefits.

While Tie and Harrington insist that their start-ups are exclusively focused on correcting monogenic diseases, there is a clear appetite in Silicon Valley for designer babies. Altman and his husband welcomed their first child, born via surrogacy, earlier this year. According to The Wall Street Journal, Altman used polygenic screening to evaluate potential embryos. As well as screening for diseases, polygenic screening generates probabilities for a wide array of traits, including height and intelligence. The practice is currently illegal in the UK. Elon Musk reportedly did the same for two of the children he had with Shivon Zilis via IVF.

Elon Musk reportedly used polygenic screening for two of his children with Shivon Ellis (Shivon Zilis/X)

Another of Preventives investors is crypto billionaire Brian Armstrong. In April, Armstrong tweeted his vision for the IVF clinic of the future. This would include genetic testing of embryos, as well as further edits for disease prevention as well as enhancement. He also envisions babies growing in artificial wombs to eliminate the risks of pregnancy.

Tricked into making babies

There are only three known gene-edited babies to have been born. In November 2018, Chinese biophysicist He Jiankui announced that he and colleagues at the Southern University of Science and Technology in Shenzhen had used Crispr to modify a gene in embryos which they hoped to make resistant to HIV. They forged documents to recruit couples for the experiment and tricked doctors into implanting the embryos into two mothers. It is not known whether the experiment worked.

His actions were roundly condemned by the scientific community and he was sacked by the university, fined three million yuan (320,000) and sentenced to three years in prison. This prompted leading scientists and bioethicists across the world to call for a global moratorium on editing the DNA in sperm, eggs or embryos to make genetically modified children.

In a bizarre twist, Tie met He Jiankui in China following his release from prison and the pair married earlier this year. According to Tie, the relationship has since ended, and he has nothing to do with Manhattan Genomics.

Preventive have reportedly found a couple with a genetic disease who are interested in taking part in preliminary tests. They would then need to find a country where it is legal. If they are successful, they believe that gene-editing could be one of the most important health technologies of the century. But it will be years before the implications of playing God become clear.
Donald Trump told a female reporter to be quiet, piggy after she asked about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein on board Air Force One - Jim Watson

By the time Donald Trump performed the ultimate U-turn and called for the release of the Epstein files, the writing was already on the wall.

Congresss overwhelming decision on Tuesday evening to approve a bill directing the Department of Justice to release all files related to Jeffrey Epstein brings to an end a months-long scandal that has at times threatened to engulf Mr Trumps presidency.

It also marks the first major defeat of his second term.

Save for the occasional interference of district judges, Teflon Don has been more or less untouchable, imposing sweeping tariffs on allies, sending national guards into American cities and brokering peace agreements, all with a flick of his black Sharpie.

But his former friendship with paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein proved to be a scandal he simply could not shake.

The president exhausted every possible avenue to make the issue disappear, calling the clamour to release the Epstein files a Democratic hoax.

In September, he dispatched aides to warn Republicans that backing the bill would be viewed as a hostile act and let speaker Mike Johnson take the flack for exploiting the government shutdown to delay a vote on the issue.

Faced with a rebellion at the 11th hour, he sent Kash Patel, the FBI director, and Pam Bondi, the attorney general, to meet with Congresswoman Lauren Boebert in the White House situation room to put the screws on her.

Mr Trump and Epstein at Mar-a-Lago in 1992 - NBC News

When it was clear he had nowhere to turn, Mr Trump was forced to do something he rarely does: he folded under the pressure and instructed House Republicans to back the bill in a last-ditch attempt to save face.

With a presidential veto nigh impossible, Mr Trump will be forced to sign the bill into law through gritted teeth.

The passage of the bill exposes a major miscalculation on behalf of the administration over just how potent an issue the Epstein scandal is to Mr Trumps base.

They thought these people would eventually lose interest, but it turns out we mixed the Kool-Aid a little too strong, one administration official said.

And despite accepting his fate, the president was clearly not happy about it, twice lashing out at reporters in recent days  one of whom he labelled piggy  for daring to challenge him on the release of the files.

The result is Congress most direct challenge yet to the presidents authority. It will no doubt be celebrated by Democrats eager for a sign that his vice-like grip on his party is loosening.

Demonstrations in recent days have demanded the files be released - Saul Loeb/AFP

But provided no incriminating evidence comes to light, the release of the files may come as a relief to some in the White House, offering a chance to put paid to the conspiracy theory that has captivated media attention and generated such pandemonium in recent months.

I dont care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, I just dont want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the victories that weve had, he wrote on Truth Social on Tuesday evening, as he entertained Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

Mr Trump will be hoping he can now wrest the focus back onto his achievements: on the border, striking trade deals, ending overseas conflicts and his renewed emphasis on the economy.

But for a president who hates to lose, he will no doubt be licking his wounds.
The foundation behind Donald Trumps presidential library plans on raising nearly $1 billion over the next two years in tax-exempt contributions to build the Miami landmark, according to a report.

Tax documents, obtained by the Miami Herald, suggest that Trumps presidential library foundation is planning to bring in hundreds of millions over the next two years as the president hopes to transform a plot of land in downtown Miami into a building honoring his legacy.

The foundation expects to rake in $950 million  $50 million this year, $300 million in 2026 and $600 million in 2027  through gifts, grants and contributions, according to its IRS application for tax-exempt status.

That $50 million figure this year stems from media companies that have pledged to give tens of millions to the library foundation as part of their settlements with Trump. ABC News agreed to donate $15 million toward the library, Meta agreed to give $22 million, and CBS News agreed to pay nearly $16 million.

This figure is staggering when compared to how much his predecessors raised for their presidential libraries. Barack Obamas library foundation garnered $5.4 million in donations in its first year while George W. Bushs foundation raised nearly $2.8 million.

Donald Trumps presidential library foundation expects to raise nearly $1 billion in donations over the next two years, according to a report (Getty Images)

Trumps foundation was granted tax-exempt status in the middle of the longest-ever government shutdown, the Miami Herald reported.

The foundation asked the IRS for expedited processing on its tax-exempt status on October 10. The agency replied on October 20, saying that the foundation was exempt from federal income tax.

While Trumps foundation took only 10 days to get approved during the shutdown, the agency noted on its website that 80 percent of such applications typically take six months to receive a determination. The Independent has asked the IRS for more information.

The application also shed light on the foundations plans.

It plans to spend the next four to five years on site acquisition, design, capital fundraising, facility construction, acquisition, and preliminary cataloging of artifacts, according to the documents. Eventually, the foundation also expects to launch a scholarship program for college students studying history, political science, public service or library sciences, the outlet reported. Eligible students include citizens or lawful permanent residents, the records state.

The application also specified how much it plans to spend this year.

The filings said that $130,000 has gone toward fundraising and $490,000 has been spent on professional fees. Another $400,000 has been used to pay its directors and trustees. Eric Trump, Michael Boulous  the husband of the presidents daughter Tiffany Trump  and James Kiley  an attorney for the president, serve as the foundations trustees.

In another filing, obtained by New York Times, the foundation said that none of those officers expected to be paid.
Donald Trump points as he speaks to reporters aboard Air Force One en route to Palm Beach, Florida, on 14 November 2025. Photograph: Jim Watson/AFP/Getty Images

I could stand in the middle of Fifth Avenue and shoot somebody, Donald Trump claimed in 2016, and I wouldnt lose any voters. Coming two weeks before the Iowa caucus, it was an unusual message from a politician, but the last nine years have served to underscore the point.

His Make America great again base, and the bulk of the Republican party, stood with him through (deep breath): two impeachments, children in cages, very fine people on both sides, 34 felony convictions, an insurrection, shithole countries, attempting to overturn an election, hush money payments to an adult film actor, theyre rapists, a brutal immigration crackdown, Four Seasons Total Landscaping, grab em by the pussy, billions of dollars made by the Trump family, cosying up to dictators, dont look!, mass pardons for his allies and friends, an unfinished wall, liberation day, presenting himself as a king, forcing Donald Trump Jr into the public consciousness, and more.

Trump has enjoyed a remarkable run of fealty, both from his rank and file supporters and from an obsequious GOP. But nothing lasts forever. To paraphrase Batman, you either die a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself lose party support over your handling of documents related to your former friend, a convicted paedophile.

Yes, it is the Jeffrey Epstein saga that has led to the biggest fissure yet between Trump and his base. Trump wanted House Republicans to vote against releasing the Epstein files this week, but as many as 100 of them were prepared to defy the president, the biggest act of disobedience Trump has faced in his second term . That forced the president into an embarrassing U-turn: after telling Republicans to vote no on releasing the files, Trump abruptly ordered them all to vote yes.

There have been signs elsewhere that Trumps iron grip over his party might be failing. Trump was desperate for Republicans in Indiana to redraw their voting map so the GOP could pick up another House seat next year, but enough Republican lawmakers resisted that the old maps remain in place.

Trump has responded to the insubordination in the ways he knows best: pettiness and cruelty.

He wanted Republicans in the Senate to abolish the filibuster. That didnt happen either, while there was uproar from rightwing figures last week over a proposal to introduce 50-year mortgages.

Trump has responded to the insubordination in the ways he knows best: pettiness and cruelty.

Thomas Massie, a Republican congressman from Kentucky who has defied Trump on several issues, was one of the first to feel the presidents ire. Trump, 79, responded to news that Massie had recently married by claiming that [Massies] wife will soon find out that shes stuck with a LOSER!.

Rod Bray, a Republican in the Indiana state senate, was dismissed as weak and pathetic in a Truth Social post, while Trump also bared his claws at Marjorie Taylor Greene, the Republican congresswoman who broke with him over Epstein. Greene was subjected to a lengthy and confusing analogy about how, actually, her name should be Marjorie Taylor Brown, because Green turns to Brown where there is ROT involved!

But as Trump has flailed around looking for someone to shout at, its the media, his familiar old foe, which has drawn the sharpest attacks .

Trump shrugged off the murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans visit to the White House, telling a journalist who asked about it: You dont have to embarrass our guest.

Quiet piggy, he told a female reporter on Friday, after she asked him why, if there was nothing in the Epstein files, Trump didnt want them released. On Tuesday, after an ABC reporter asked why he wont release the files immediately, Trump called her a terrible person and a terrible reporter.

The president added: People are wise to your hoax and ABC is  uh, your company, your crappy company, is one of the perpetrators. And Ill tell you something, Ill tell you something, I think the license should be taken away from ABC. Because your news is so fake, and its so wrong, and we have a great commissioner, chairman who should look at that.

In the midst of the childlike insults, this one had some real malice. Trump was never likely to shoot someone in middle of Fifth Avenue, but he has waged a war on the media: pressing CBS News and Disney into coughing up $16m through lawsuits, threatening legal action against CNN, and lobbying for late-night hosts to be kicked off air.

At a time when Republicans appear less likely than ever before to submit to Trumps demands, its corporate media bosses who are seeming subservient. Plenty of reporters have, so far, stood up to the president. But with Trump increasingly angry and vengeful, will an independent press be able to stand firm? Well see.

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Commentators have oscillated between accusing Donald Trump of capitulating to Vladimir Putins demands and praising him for applying new pressure - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS/AFP

After the failed Alaska summit between Donald Trump and Vladimir Putin in August, the general prognosis was that US efforts to bring peace to Ukraine had stalled. The assessments grew even darker in late October, when the White House sanctioned Russias two largest oil companies, tired of the Kremlins refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire. In the 11 months since he returned to office, commentators have oscillated between accusing the US president of capitulating to Putins demands and praising him for bringing new pressure to bear on the Kremlin.

Now, according to various reports, the Trump administration has drafted the rough outline for a possible peace agreement. Russia appears cautiously optimistic, so once again, criticism is mounting of the US presidents supposed willingness to sell out Kyiv in order to force an end to the conflict. But the bigger question is whether the proposals will survive contact with reality. There are good reasons to be sceptical.

As reported, the latest US draft has a number of elements that will serve as the basis for further discussions. The Ukrainian army would be expected to withdraw from the entirety of the Donbas region, including the areas the Russians havent been able to capture, with the region then potentially leased to Moscow. The Ukrainian armys size and capacity would be cut, and the long-range weapons that Kyiv has been using against Russian energy targets would no longer be available. In addition, US military aid to Kyiv would be rolled back and the Ukrainian government would be expected to recognise Russian as an official language.

Concessions would be expected of the Russians as well, although the list is shorter. The Trump plan appears to compel Russian troops to hand back some of the territory theyve captured in the Zaporizhzhia and Kherson regions. And Ukraine could be offered some sort of US defence guarantee in exchange for compromising on its own military capabilities. The reason behind such a guarantee is straightforward: mollify Ukrainian objections to other parts of the plan and deter Russia from resuming the war at a time of their choosing.

A building burns after a Russian strike in the Lviv region of Ukraine on Wednesday - Anadolu

Yet the same difficulties that have hampered previous attempts at US-led diplomacy in the past are still hanging around like a bad cold. It is not yet clear that both sides have abandoned the view that continuing the war  in the hope of claiming or reclaiming territory, shifting the military balance, and getting a peace deal with better terms sometime in the future  is a better gamble than sitting down at the table and conceding to their opponent now. When two combatants regard the war theyre fighting as existential, theres only so much a foreign mediator  even one as powerful as the United States  can do.

On the Ukrainian side, the concessions the Trump administration is expecting are politically toxic and run head-first into their red lines. For Volodymyr Zelensky, who is under significant domestic pressure over a corruption scandal, US officials are essentially asking him to give up a chunk of heavily fortified land that tens of thousands of Ukrainian troops continue to fight to hold. While the Ukrainian military isnt resistant to tactical withdrawals, it is dead set against surrendering critically-important terrain that the Russians have failed to take despite enormous casualties. Indeed, it took about 18 months for the Russians to be in a position of capturing Pokrovsk, a small city whose pre-war population of 60,000 is about half the size of Dayton, Ohio.

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The Americans may argue that, given the way the battlefield is trending, its only a matter of time before Ukraine loses Pokrovsk anyway. But the Ukrainians are bound to look at projections like these as dangerous, defeatist and disrespectful of their armys sacrifices. If the Ukrainians are as sensitive as they are about Pokrovsk, one can only imagine what theyre saying about losing the entire Donbas.

Trumps purported suggestion of a US security guarantee as some sort of consolation prize for Ukraine is also beyond strange. First, it goes against Trumps entire shtick about shedding security commitments that the US military shouldnt be asked to fulfil anyway. Can such a scheme truly be categorised as America First?

Second, how would bringing Ukraine under the US security umbrella be any different to offering Kyiv Nato membership, a decision that successive US administrations have avoided for two decades, because it would inevitably anger Russia and require unanimity within the alliance? Some Nato members may even oppose a US security guarantee, afraid that Trump and whomever comes after him would expect them to help defend Ukraine if the situation deteriorates again. In turn, the Russians are highly likely to view a US security guarantee as a distinction without a difference.

And what about the elephant in the room: would a US security guarantee to Ukraine actually mean anything? Would the Americans enforce it? The Biden and Trump administrations have disagreed on a lot of things, but both have held the position that its not worth getting into a conventional conflict with the worlds largest nuclear power just to defend Ukraine.

Ukraine diplomacy isnt dead yet. But its not getting any easier either.

Daniel DePetris is a fellow at Defense Priorities
A view of Zaporizhzia nuclear power plant and the Dnipro River. Photograph: Julia Kochetova/The Guardian

Ukraines national anti-corruption bureau, known as Nabu, says it has uncovered a high-level criminal scheme at the heart of government. It involves Ukraines nuclear energy body, Energoatom, that runs three nuclear power plants supplying Ukraine with more than half of its electricity.

What is the scandal?

A group of insiders allegedly received kickbacks of 10-15% from Energoatoms commercial partners. If these suppliers failed to pay up, they were removed from a list of approved counter-parties or not reimbursed for services already given. About $100m (76m) was received in this way, Nabu says.

The alleged conspiracy had old-school touches. Its beneficiaries used code names for each other, such as Professor, Karlson and Sugarman. They carried blocks of cash around Kyiv in large and unwieldy bags, sometimes delivering it on foot. On one occasion, a plotter allegedly sent his wife to collect a stash of dollars, which she hid in her car.

Who was involved?

The alleged organiser of the scheme is Timur Mindich, an old friend and business partner of the Ukrainian president, Volodymyr Zelenskyy. Mindich co-founded Kvartal 95, the media production company set up by Zelenskyy before he went into politics.

Last week he fled his apartment in Kyivs government district hours before Nabu investigators came to arrest him, escaping abroad. He is now thought to be hiding in Israel.

Other alleged participants include Ukraines ex-deputy prime minister Oleksiy Chernyshov, who is already under suspicion in a separate case; the justice minster, Herman Halushchenko, and his protege, the energy minister, Svitlana Hrynchuk, who were both fired. All deny wrongdoing. At least three other backroom figures allegedly took part.

How have the public reacted?

With fury. Over the autumn, Russia has destroyed much of Ukraines energy infrastructure, leading to widespread and worsening blackouts. The hum of pavement generators has become a feature of everyday life, with electricity and heating supplies frequently interrupted. Meanwhile, Russian troops are advancing in the south and east after nearly four years of full-scale war.

In one conversation collected by Nabu in its 15-month investigation a suspect said it was a pity to build a structure to defend power stations from Russian bomb attacks since the money could be stolen instead. Chernyshov allegedly spent some of the illicit cash on four luxury mansions in a new-build riverside plot south of Kyiv.

The investigation, which has 1,000 hours of secretly recorded conversations, has been dubbed Operation Midas. The name seemingly refers to Mindichs apartment, which features a gold toilet in the bathroom.

How far does the corruption go?

The big unanswered question. Was Mindichgate, as it has been called, a one-off? Or one of many similar insider schemes?

Zelenskyy has condemned the scandal, slapped sanctions on Mindich and stripped him of his Ukrainian citizenship. The president of a country at war cannot have friends, he said last week after the news broke. He has called for investigations to run their course and for those found guilty to be punished and put behind bars. In July, however  while the Midas investigation was active  Zelenskyy had signed a decree effectively stripping Nabu and the special prosecutors office, another anti-corruption agency, of their independence and only backed down after the most serious street protests since Russias 2022 full-scale invasion.

Nabu has indicated that the scandal extends to the defence ministry, where Mindich was involved in pursuing lucrative state contracts. And possibly banking, where he also had connections.

What happens next?

The affair is Ukraines biggest corruption scandal since Zelenskyy became president six-and-a-half years ago. Civil society activists, opposition MPs and prominent military veterans have urged him to take decisive action, even if that means the sacking and jailing of people who are personally known to him. The former president Petro Poroshenko has called for the current cabinet to be sacked and for a government of national unity to be formed. This is unlikely to happen. Poroshenko was himself embroiled in a defence procurement scandal, which played a role in his 2019 defeat to Zelenskyy, who promised to clean up public life.

Political commentators say corruption is the result of mono-government: the fact that Zelenskyy and his allies enjoy sweeping wartime powers under martial law. No elections can be held while fighting continues. The revelations have also dismayed Ukraines western partners and emboldened its enemies. Worst of all, there appears to be a connection with Moscow. According to Nabu, the kickbacks were funnelled through a Kyiv back office connected to the family of Andriy Derkach, a former Ukrainian politician who is now a pro-Kremlin Russian senator. Some cash ended up in Russia, the tapes suggest.

Is there an upside?

Of sorts. Some observers think the fact the scandal emerged at all is proof that Ukraine is slowly moving in the right direction  towards European norms and away from gloomy Soviet-style kleptocracy. Oleksandr Abakumov, the head of Nabus investigating team, acknowledged his colleagues had faced a lot of obstacles pursuing the Mindich case. But he stressed: This isnt a story about corruption in Ukraine. Its about how the country is struggling with corruption, fighting with corruption.
Sergey Kiriyenko has growing clout, but a successor is just as likely to emerge from the shadows - Alexei Druzhinin/Sputnik/KRE/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock

The current Russian leadership has spent years ensuring that any notion of a smooth succession is little more than a constitutional fairy tale. On paper, the job should pass to prime minister Mikhail Mishustin. But paper counts for precious little in Moscow, and Mishustin lacks the backing of the siloviki, the security establishment who ultimately do matter.

Sergey Kiriyenko, the quietly influential deputy chief of the presidential administration, is often mentioned: a technocrat with growing clout and the nod from key security figures. But when the moment comes, expect it to be abrupt, opaque and thoroughly unanticipated. The next leader is just as likely to emerge from the shadows as from the supposed shortlist.

Can we expect continuity when it comes to Russias endless nuclear sabre-rattling? Sergey Karaganov  an archetypal Kremlin court intellectual  has been pontificating again about nuclear war, Europes decay, and the fantastical notion that Siberia is the cradle of Eurasian civilisation. This, from a man more familiar with Venetian real estate and Italian tailoring than with life east of the Urals. He may be clever, but his apocalyptic sermons strain credibility. Is he truly prepared to see his flat in Venice vaporised and his supply of expensive European fashion reduced to ash in the name of saving the world from LGBT+ propaganda? One doubts it.

The Kremlin elites wrists offer a more honest story. Their watches  ostentatious, wildly beyond their official salaries  are almost exclusively European. None are from Russia. None are from the fabled Siberian heartlands. And while were at it, Chinese Communist Party officials, despite Beijings official disdain for the West, also quietly shop in Europe for their luxury goods. This weeks MI5 warning on Chinese espionage puts that in its context.

As for potential successors to the Kremlin, lets not pretend there are many white knights in the running. Kiriyenko may have a technocratic sheen, but he is deeply implicated in the administration of occupied Ukrainian regions and now in policy across Georgia, Moldova, Armenia and Azerbaijan. Mishustin looks little better. Moscow is, frankly, a nest of vipers. Whatever our problems in Westminster or elsewhere in Europe, at least our politicians are broadly decent human beings  often uninspiring, sometimes inept, but not the heads of criminal fiefdoms.

A new investigation by Proekt, an independent Russian outlet, illustrates this vividly. Their study, Fathers and Grandfathers, catalogues over 1,300 individuals, mapping the interlocking dynasties that keep Putinism alive. The scale of hereditary privilege and corruption is breathtaking, even for Russia.

Putins longevity suggests that whoever eventually replaces him may be no moral improvement. But paradoxically, that might offer hope for Europe and Ukraine. Many of these would-be successors appear less interested in existential geopolitical crusades than in regaining the privileges they enjoyed before the invasion  freedom to travel, to spend their ill-gotten wealth, to enjoy the Western luxuries that the war has curtailed. Their priorities may prove more Gucci than Gulag. And that, in its own way, might be an opening: one preferable to the meat grinder in Ukraine, and Russias ongoing hybrid war with the UK and Europe which might go hot at any time.
An amber weather warning has been issued for Thursday as parts of the UK are set to see as much as 25cm of snowfall this week as temperatures plunge in the first cold snap of the winter.

The Met Office has warned that this week will be markedly colder than it was last week, with harsh frost and snow expected on some days.

A number of warnings have been issued for snow and ice across the UK for Thursday after sleet and snow showers continued to batter UK coastal areas overnight - with the cold weather expected to continue until the weekend.

A number of warnings have been issued for snow and ice across the UK for Thursday (Met Office)

Parts of Yorkshire including York and Scarborough are subject to an amber weather warning from 5am to 9pm on Thursday. Multiple Met Office yellow warnings for ice and snow have also been issued for the coming days, covering Northern Ireland, parts of Wales, northern and south-westerly parts of England and much of Scotland.

Temperatures could drop to -12C in areas of lying snow in Scotland on Friday, the Met Office said (Jane Barlow/PA) (PA Wire)

The Met Office has warned that rural communities could be cut off as gusty winds hit, creating occasional blizzard conditions, with the possibility of lightning a further hazard.

Up to 25cm of snow is expected to settle on high ground, particularly across the North York Moors as the forecaster warned some could face significant travel disruption and potential power cuts.

Parts of Yorkshire including York and Scarborough are subject to an amber weather warning from 5am to 9pm on Thursday. (PA)

The weather service also said thundersnow  where thunderstorms form in wintry conditions and cause heavy downpours of snow  was seen in Aberdeenshire and off the coast in the north-east on Wednesday.

A spokesman said: There is a risk we could see more today off the coast of eastern Scotland and north-east England.

About 100 schools have closed in northern Scotland on Thursday, while in Wales, 36 are closed in Pembrokeshire, 14 in Carmarthenshire and seven in Ceredigion.

(PA)

In North Yorkshire, 33 schools are closed, while eight are listed as fully closed in East Yorkshire.

Temperatures in Northern Ireland, England and Wales fell to their coldest of the season so far, with minus 6.6C recorded at RAF Benson in Oxfordshire, minus 6.4C in Sennybridge in Powys and minus 2.8C at Altnahinch Filters in Co Antrim.

Scotlands lowest temperature recorded overnight on Wednesday was minus 6.4C in Dundreggan, Inverness.

Snow-covered fields near Banchory, Scotland (Lynne Cameron/PA) (PA Archive)

But the coldest temperatures could still be ahead, the Met Office warned, with potential for lows of -12C in areas of lying snow in Scotland on Friday.

It comes after areas including London, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Essex, Shropshire and Northumberland saw snow on Wednesday, with Met Office weather stations in Lake Vyrnwy in Powys, Wales, recording 7cm of lying snow at 8am.

The Met Office has warned that rural communities could be cut off as gusty winds hit, creating occasional blizzard conditions, with the possibility of lightning a further hazard (Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

Yellow and amber health alerts from the UK Health Security Agency for cold weather also came into place on Monday. The amber warning is in place for the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber, while a yellow alert is in place for the rest of England until 8am on Saturday.

The amber warning is in place for the North East, North West and Yorkshire and the Humber, while a yellow alert is in place for the rest of England until 8am on Saturday (UKHSA)

Met Office Chief Forecaster Neil Armstrong said: Cold Arctic air from the north is firmly in charge of the UKs weather, bringing the first notable cold snap of this autumn and giving an early taste of winter weather.

As a result, winter hazards are likely through the next few days, with snow and ice a particular hazard, and the coldest conditions likely on Wednesday and Thursday. Wintry showers will affect areas exposed to the brisk northerly wind, in particular Northern Ireland, southwest Wales, southwest England, northeast England and across the northern half of Scotland.

(Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

Whilst not all places will see lying snow, where showers are most frequent accumulations of 2-5 cm will be possible. On higher ground in Scotland, 15-20 cm could accumulate, and potentially as much as 15-25 cm over the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds.

The coldest temperatures could still be ahead, the Met Office warned, with potential for lows of -12C in areas of lying snow in Scotland on Friday (Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

Deputy Chief Forecaster Tom Crabtree explained: Wednesday to Friday will be the coldest part of the week, and this period has the greatest potential for impactful weather, with multiple warnings in place.

Overnight, temperatures could get down to minus ten, with a significant wind chill from the strong northerly wind making things feel even colder.

Im not sure how much wintry stuff were going to see across the southern areas, mostly just falling as rain.

Up to 25cm of snow is expected to settle on high ground, particularly across the North York Moors as the forecaster warned some could face significant travel disruption and potential power cuts (Owen Humphreys/PA Wire)

He added: Northern parts of Scotland seeing plenty, and also down the eastern side of England and eastern Scotland as well  plenty of these rain, sleet and snow showers.

Mr Crabtree said: With sub-zero temperatures in the first cold snap of the year, updates to the current warnings are possible, so its important people keep up to date with the forecast.
WH Smith chief executive Carl Cowling has stepped down after an investigation into an accounting blunder in its US division and as the retailer warned over profits once again.

Mr Cowling has been replaced by Andrew Harrison  chief executive of the groups UK division  on an interim basis until a permanent successor is appointed.

It follows an independent review by Deloitte which found a number of shortcomings which saw the group overstate profits in the US business by as much as 50 million.

WH Smith warned it now expects profits in its US business for delayed full-year results in the range of 5 million to 15 million  down from the 55 million originally expected in the market and the 25 million revised guidance when the accounting issue was first uncovered.

Profits for the wider group are now expected to be between 100 million to 110 million for the year to August 31, which is lower than the 110 million in its previous earnings downgrade.

WH Smith chairwoman Annette Court said: This is an extremely serious matter that has had the boards full attention and we sincerely apologise for the shortcomings identified.

While the issues identified arose in our North America division, we recognise the importance of strengthening controls, governance and reporting procedures across the group.

We have acted swiftly to build a comprehensive remediation plan and will reinforce the financial discipline and integrity that underpin our business moving forward.

Our priority now is to rebuild trust and credibility, and to improve the performance and profitability of our North America division.

It brings to an abrupt end Mr Cowlings six-year tenure at the helm and his 11-year career at the company.

He said: Whilst the issues identified in the Deloitte review arose in our North American division, I recognise the seriousness of this situation and as group chief executive feel it is only right that I step down from my position.

WH Smith said in October it was delaying full-year results by more than a month due to the US accounting issue and Deloitte review.

Figures for the year to August 31 had been due on November 12, but are now expected to be published on December 16.

Deloittes review found issues with the accounting treatment for supplier income in the US, which it said had arisen against a backdrop of a target-driven performance culture and decentralised divisional structure combined with a limited level of group oversight of the finance processes in North America.

It also said there were weaknesses in the make-up of the US finance team and insufficient systems, controls and review procedures for supplier income across commercial and finance functions.

WH Smith appointed a new chief executive for the US business in June and is reviewing the wider North America leadership team as part of a recovery plan, which is being monitored by the board.

WH Smith is now focused solely on its 1,300 shops in global travel locations  such as in airports, train stations and hospitals  after it sold its high street chain of about 480 shops to Hobbycraft owner Modella Capital in June.

As part of the deal, the WH Smith name is disappearing from British high streets and being replaced by brand TGJones.

In August, bakery chain Greggs said it had delayed the appointment of incoming board director and former WH Smith finance chief Robert Moorhead due to the Deloitte review.

Mr Moorhead had been due to start at Greggs on October 1 as an independent non-executive director and chairman of the audit committee.

He left WH Smith in 2024 after more than 20 years at the chain.

Shares in WH Smith lifted 5% in Wednesday trading as investors breathed a sign of relief that the findings and downgrade were not worse, according to Peel Hunt.

Peel Hunt analysts said: With the UK and Rest of World absolved of any wrong-doing, and the chief executive sadly having had to fall on his sword, we can look forward now.
The Your Party comrades are falling out - Ben Montgomery

Your Party, the oddly misnamed political vehicle of former Labour MPs Jeremy Corbyn and Zarah Sultana, has already succumbed to precisely the same pressures that made similar projects fail in the 1970s and early 80s.

Then the various far-Left Marxist and Trotskyist outfits would violently disagree on the smallest deviation from the sacred texts of whichever communist revolutionary was in vogue at the time.

Now though, the Your Party comrades falling out chiefly over policy, organisation and that old perennial  cold, hard cash.

Corbyns and Sultanas politics align closely enough to justify their initial declaration that they would be co-leaders of a new party announced this summer. But, inevitably, since then the cracks have appeared in this new venture, starting with briefings that Sultana had prematurely announced the new party without Corbyns approval. There then followed a public row over whether Sultana had any right to start collecting membership fees for the new party using a private company she owns. The sums raised, thought to be more than 800,000, are needed in order to host Your Partys founding national conference at the end of this month, but Zarah has been accused of dragging her feet in handing it over.

All of that would, perhaps, be manageable if there were not already a fundamental disagreement on policy at the heart of the new alliance that Corbyn and Sultana have forged with the four-strong group of independent Muslim MPs elected at the 2024 general election.

They can all agree on their opposition to Israel, but thats the easy part: politics is slightly more complicated than adopting a fashionable Saturday morning cause, as Your Partys approach to trans rights has proved. Iqbal Mohamed, the MP for Dewsbury and Batley, publicly said that womens rights should not be taken away, which is in direct opposition to Your Partys views (and that of the Greens) that womens rights to single-sex spaces certainly should be taken away if any man insists on using those spaces.

Sultana responded with a warning that support for trans rights was non-negotiable. This little spat followed a previous one involving Blackburns independent MP, Adnan Hussain, who infuriated Sultana by saying that which must never be said but which everyone knows: that trans women are not biological women.

He later abandoned Your Party, citing its toxic culture. Opposition to the decriminalisation of abortion among the independent Muslim MPs as well as their opposition to adding VAT to private school tuition might also be building up internal strife at some future date.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. Another far-Left group that has been growing into something more akin to a mainstream party is the Greens, under its new popular leader, Zack Polanski. Both parties seem to be offering the public exactly the same thing when it comes to Israel and the priority of trans rights over womens rights. And both would run out of things to say if billionaires were removed from the English dictionary. The space on the far Left of the political spectrum is becoming ever more crowded as disillusion with the Labour Party grows and a generation of young people who were raised to believe that they are entitled to whatever they want  and now!  start to flex their electoral muscles.

But Your Party cant sustain its awkward coalition between trans activists and traditional Muslims, just as the Greens cant appeal to a broad spectrum of the electorate while it disdains the economic growth on which everyones quality of life depends, and all while reciting the Stonewall catechism that trans women are women.

The argument is often made that the proliferation of political parties in the modern era demands a new electoral system, since first-past-the-post upholds, as far as it is able, the old two-party system. Allow me to posit an alternative way forward: that we retain the current system as the best way of guarding against a range of parties and philosophies that are best confined to the dark, eccentric corners of British political life.
There are less than three weeks until Christmas and the weather in the UK is unsettled, with the Met Office predicting wet and windy weather early next week.

For parents, this means wrapping children up warmly in hats, gloves, scarves and padded coats.

However, for safety reasons, experts warn that children should not wear winter coats or bulky clothing while travelling in the car. This even applies to short trips like the school or nursery run, or nipping to the shops

Its also advised that young children dont wear snowsuits, and to avoid dressing babies in hats, while in the car.

Here's what you need to know.

Bulky clothing can create a gap between a child and their seatbelt or harness. (Getty Images) (Cavan Images via Getty Images)

Why shouldn't children wear winter coats in the car?

Most car seat manufacturers, including Britax Romer, Joie and Maxi-Cosi, state on their websites that thick coats and bulky clothing should not be worn when using a car seat. This is because it can prevent the seat belt from being tightened properly.

"You want the harness as close to the bone structure as you can get it," Julie Dagnall, director at Child Seat Safety, which runs training courses and events to support with the fitting of car seats, tells Yahoo UK.

"When you've got padding from a jacket, it creates a space so that in the case of an impact, the baby's or child's body can move further forward within the harness. This can increase the chance of a child being seriously injured or coming out of the harness.

The Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) also "strongly advises against putting children in car seats while they are wearing thick winter coats."

"Bulky clothing creates a gap between the child and the harness or seatbelt, and in a crash, coats compress, which can leave dangerous slack and prevent the restraint from holding the child securely," says senior policy officer Rebecca Guy.

What about when they're in a booster seat?

Children can typically move into a booster seat or a car seat using a seat belt once they weigh 15-22kg.

However, Guy says that the same advice still applies to booster seats and children should not wear winter coats or bulky clothing while using them.

Dagnall also advises that adults and children who no longer use a car seat should not wear coats, noting that it's even recommended in some car handbooks. This will ensure the seat belt sits as close to the body as possible,

Snowsuits can have the same effect as winter coats. (Getty Images) (dtephoto via Getty Images)

Are snowsuits OK?

Like bulky coats, snowsuits can prevent the car seat harness from sitting correctly, so for your childs safety, they should not be worn.

The Lullaby Trust also advises removing babies hats and outdoor clothing in the car to prevent them from overheating.

Babies are at a greater risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) if they get too hot. The charity says that removing hats is important, as babies maintain their body temperature by releasing heat through their head.

What to do instead

If you're worried your child will be too cold, RoSPA recommends dressing them in thin, warm layers instead of a bulky jacket. "Fasten the harness or seatbelt safely against the childs body first, and then place a blanket over them or put their coat on backwards over the top once they are safely restrained," says Guy.

Dagnall also recommends the back-to-front coat method. "That way, they can hold on to a toy and can move their arms around. They're not as restricted as they may be with a blanket," she notes.

How to tell if a seat belt or harness is tight enough

To ensure the harness on a car seat is fastened tight enough, Dagnall recommends the pinch test.

"When you pull the straps tight, you shouldn't be able to pinch them," she says. "If you can, it's too loose."

She explains that while a child may start a journey sitting upright, once they start to relax into the seat, even a slightly loose harness can create a gap and wont work as effectively.

If your child is in a booster seat that uses the car seat belt, RoSPA's child car seats website recommends having the seat belt as tight as possible.

Before every journey you should also ensure that seat belt or harness straps are securely fastened and there are no twists.
Five Middle Bronze Age gold items from Capel Isaf, Carmarthenshire, were stolen from St Fagans National Museum of History in Cardiff

Bronze Age gold jewellery has been stolen from a museum in Cardiff.

South Wales Police said several irreplaceable items were stolen from a display case in the main building at St Fagans National Museum of History at around 12.30am on Oct 6.

Gavin Burnett, 43, appeared at Northampton Crown Court via video link from HMP Peterborough on Wednesday, where he pleaded not guilty to a burglary charge.

The missing items include four Middle Bronze Age gold armlets from Llanwrthwrl, Powys, and an Early Bronze Age gold lunula  a crescent-shaped ornament worn as a necklace  from Llanllyfni, Gwynedd, police said.

The force is also looking for five Middle Bronze Age gold items from Carmarthenshire, and three Middle Bronze Age gold items from Heyope, Powys.

The stolen Early Bronze Age gold lunula from Llanllyfni, Gwynedd - Wales news service

Three Middle Bronze Age gold items from Heyope, Powys - Wales news service

During the same hearing, Burnett, of Northampton, also pleaded not guilty to charges of conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to steal, and making a threat to kill. He is expected to stand trial in April.

Darren Burnett, 50, also of Northampton, appeared via video link for the 25-minute hearing, but was not asked to enter any pleas. He is expected to be arraigned on Dec 11.

Police have said a 45-year-old woman from Northamptonshire was arrested as part of the investigation and is on police bail.

Gavin Burnett pleaded not guilty to burglary and charges of conspiracy to steal - Wales news service

The items were taken from the museum, which opened in 1948 in the grounds of St Fagans castle and is a popular heritage visitor attraction.

Jane Richardson, the chief executive of Amgueddfa Cymru, or Museum Wales, said: Wed like to thank the police for their continuing investigation into the search for these invaluable and irreplaceable items that are part of Waless history, heritage, and culture.

Id like to encourage anyone who may have any information about their location to come forward to the police so that they can be returned to their rightful home within Waless national collection for everyone to access and enjoy.

South Wales Police said the search for the gold items was continuing, and urged anyone with information to get in contact quoting 2500319180.
Andrew Grijns, a London financier, sued his mother for 2.6m, claiming he was wrongfully disinherited - Champion News

A financier sued his elderly mother after she kicked him out of the familys 3.85m Chelsea townhouse.

Andrew Grijns lived in his American parents four-story Georgian house, in Bury Walk, for more than 20 years while carving out a successful career in Londons finance world.

After his fathers death in 2019, he claimed he had been promised two-thirds the value of the property  around 2.6m  where he had enjoyed discounted rent for decades.

But he fell out with his mother, Janice Grijns, 80, who accused him of wanting her dead so that he could have the property and told him to leave the house immediately.

A High Court battle ensued, in which Mr Grijns claimed he had lived at the house to his own detriment for decades rather than moving on and buying his own property. He even argued that he had been forced to put up with her old-fashioned interior decor.

But a judge has thrown out his 2.6m claim, leaving him with an estimated court bill of more than 1m.

Master Timothy Bowles said: The reality... is that Andrew has had the opportunity to live in a substantial property in a desirable part of London at very modest cost for the best part of a quarter of a century.

Andrew is a person who is entirely self-absorbed, and whose paramount concern is entirely for himself.

The 3.85m London townhouse in Bury Walk, Chelsea - Champion News

The court heard that Mr Grijnss parents, Leendert and Janice, bought the four-bedroomed terraced house, with a separate basement granny flat, in 1994.

Mr Grijns, who has three brothers, moved in with his parents in 1999 and enjoyed a good relationship with them before falling out with his mother in 2020.

In heated email exchanges, he accused her of vilifying and bullying him and turning against him. She responded, accusing him of wanting her dead so he could have the property.

The argument escalated so badly that Mr Grijns tried to get her sent to prison in 2023, the court was told.

Giving his ruling, Master Bowles said: Andrew, when cross-examined, did not find it in him to acknowledge the considerable advantages that he had been given by his parents in being allowed to make his home at the property over very many years. That is, I think, an indication of the extent of his self-absorption.

Dismissing the claim, he declared Mr Grijns to have been a trespasser in the house since August 2023.

He was ordered to pay his mother 85,000 per year from that date until he leaves, a figure that also accounts for the rent he received letting part of the property since May 2023.
Neanderthals are very likely to have kissed one another  and early modern humans, the study suggests. Photograph: Martin Meissner/AP

From Galapagos albatrosses to polar bears, chimpanzees to orangutans, certain species appear to kiss. Now researchers suggest Neanderthals did it too  and might even have locked lips with modern humans.

It is not the first time scientists have suggested Neanderthals and early modern humans were intimately acquainted. Among previous studies, researchers have found humans and their thick-browed cousins shared the same mouth microbe for hundreds of thousands of years after the two species split, suggesting they swapped saliva.

Dr Matilda Brindle, an evolutionary biologist and the first author of the new study from the University of Oxford, said while various theories had been proposed, the new work supported a simple explanation.

Probably they were kissing, she said, adding that the idea chimed with research that has found humans of non-African ancestry have bits of Neanderthal DNA in their genome, revealing interbreeding was at play.

It certainly puts a more romantic spin on human-Neanderthal relations, Brindle said.

Writing in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior, Brindle and colleagues report how, to investigate the evolutionary origins of kissing, they first had to come up with a definition that was not limited to how humans smooch.

There have been some previous attempts to define a kiss, but its very much been human-centric, which means that basically other animals dont kiss. Now we know that they probably do, it might just not look exactly what human kissing looks like, said Brindle.

However, she said some behaviours that looked like kissing were something rather different  such as the chewing and transfer of food, or kiss-fighting, seen in fish known as French grunts.

As a result the team came up with a definition of kissing based on friendly interactions involving directed mouth-to-mouth contact with a member of the same species, with some movement of the mouth but no transfer of food.

Brindle said they focused on reports of kissing in primates from Africa and Asia, including bonobos, chimpanzees and orangutans, and used YouTube videos to confirm the reports.

The researchers then combined this data with information on the evolutionary relationships between living and extinct species of such primates.

The team say the results suggest kissing evolved somewhere between 21.5m and 16.9m years ago in the ancestors of the large apes.

The position of Neanderthals on this family tree means it is likely they, too, indulged in a kiss, the researchers say. But the behaviour might not have been confined to their own species.

The fact that humans kiss, the fact that we now have shown that Neanderthals very likely kissed, indicates that the two [species] are also likely to have kissed, Brindle added.

While the evolutionary explanation is debated, Brindle said kissing could be used in sexual contexts to potentially increase reproductive success or help choose between mates, while it might help reinforce bonding when used in a platonic way.

Dr Jake Brooker, an expert in the behaviour of great apes at the University of Durham, who was not involved in the work, said that as kissing behaviour was seen in a wide range of apes it made sense its origins lie deep in our evolutionary past, and an analysis of different forms of kissing among a wider variety of species might push its origins back even earlier still.

Things that we think of as signatures of human life, like kissing, are not unique to us if we look closely at other animals, he said.

Penny Spikins, a professor of the archaeology of human origins at the University of York, said kissing had a cultural element as it was not common to all societies.

Nonetheless, as humans we thrive or fail on the strength of our emotional bonds, and ways of promoting trust and intimacy will have been important for millions of years, she said. It might be an image that seems a bit incongruous to our misplaced ideas of a rather ruthless and aggressive past, but really it should be no surprise that Neanderthals- and even Neanderthals and our own species together  kissed.
Two women held up their red palms in the Oxford Union chamber

Two pro-Palestinian protesters have been accused of mimicking the deaths of Israeli soldiers when they disrupted a speech at the Oxford Union.

The women smiled as they held their red-painted palms aloft during a speech by Ehud Olmert, the former Israeli prime minister, before being removed from the chamber on Sunday.

The red hand gesture is associated with an infamous image from the Second Intifada in 2000, taken after a Palestinian mob stormed Ramallah police station and lynched two IDF reservists.

In the photograph, a beaming Abdel Aziz Salha waves his blood-stained hands out of the police station window at cheering onlookers.

Soon afterwards, the soldiers mutilated bodies were thrown from the window and disembowelled by the baying crowd.

Aziz Salha held up his bloody hands to the crowd after storming a police station and murdering to Israeli reservists in 2000. Their bodies were afterwards thrown from the window and mutilated by the crowd - Chris Gerald/AFP via Getty

Salha, a Hamas militant, was arrested in 2001, deported to Gaza in a prisoner swap in 2011 and killed last year in an air strike.

Protesters have claimed red hands represent the Jewish state having blood on its hands.

However, Melanie Phillips, the author and journalist, believes the red hands refer to the killing of the Israeli reservists.

Responding to the image of the protesters online, she posted the infamous photo of Salha with the caption: They were slaughtered and mutilated. Their intestines were ripped out and thrown to the screaming mob.

One of the murderers held up his bloody hands in jubilation. Thats the meaning of the red hands. The Oxford Union now celebrates the psychotic murder of Jews.

A spokesman for Campaign Against Antisemitism said: The images of two women smiling and holding up painted red palms are deeply disturbing.

Those in the Palestine movement will probably try to claim that the gesture is a statement that the worlds only Jewish state has blood on its hands, completely ignorant  willingly or otherwise  of the evocations of medieval blood libels that charged the Jews with a fervent bloodlust.

The image of anti-Israel protesters baring their red hands with glee may bring back images of the horrific lynching in Ramallah in 2000, where a terrorist murderer infamously posed on a balcony with fresh Jewish blood dripping from his hands, proudly raised for the crowd below to see. Either way, this kind of performance serves only to stoke the flames of hatred.

Susan Abulhawa, the Palestinian activist and author of Mornings in Jenin, replied: The red hands are a symbol of an indigenous peoples refusal to capitulate to Jewish supremacist foreign colonisers, and of our enduring commitment to resist our tormentors by any means necessary.

It is the right of all colonised people to fight those who kill, rob, and oppress them.

Ehud Olmert, the former prime minister of Israel, was speaking at the Oxford Union when protesters disrupted the event - Jack Guez/AFP via Getty

In 2024, celebrities including Billie Eilish and Mark Ruffalo wore red hand pins designed by Artists4Ceasefire at the 96th Academy Awards.

The Brigade, a group founded by PR, studio executives and filmmakers in the wake of the Oct 7 massacre, condemned the spectacle, saying: That pin is no symbol of peace. It is the emblem of Jewish bloodshed.

In 2000, Palestinian terrorists in Ramallah lynched two innocent Israelis, ripped them apart limb by limb, and held up their blood-soaked hands to a cheering mob. That infamous image is now your ceasefire badge.

During the speech on Sunday, activists unfurled a banner reading Palestinian children are human too while shouting liar, shame on you and genocide enabler.

Last week, the union voted in favour of a motion declaring Israel a greater threat to regional stability than Iran.

The Oxford Union and Oxford University have been approached for comment.
Peter Sullivan was never approved for release on licence - Merseyside Police

A man who served 38 years in prison is calling for a police apology after claiming officers beat him until he confessed to a murder he did not commit.

Peter Sullivan, 68, was freed earlier this year after serving 38 years behind bars for the murder of Diane Sindall. It is believed to be one of the worst miscarriages of justice in UK history.

Crucial DNA evidence unearthed owing to scientific advances proved that it was another, unknown man who sexually assaulted and murdered the 21-year-old on her way home from work in Merseyside in 1986.

He is now seeking compensation and an apology from Merseyside Police for his near-four decade wrongful imprisonment.

All I want is an apology

Speaking for the first time since his release, he told BBC News: I cant forgive them for what theyve done to me because its going to be there with me for the rest of my life  Ive got to carry that burden until I can get an apology on what happened from everyone else whos been involved with the case.

Thats all I want is an apology with the reason why they done [sic] this to me ... from Merseyside police and everyone else.

I lost all my freedom, I lost my mother, since I was put in prison, Ive lost my father, and it hurts because I wasnt there for them.

He claimed he was beaten by police officers in his cell who leathered him to get a confession to the crime.

They threw a blanket over the top of me and they were hitting me on top of the blanket with the truncheons to try and get me to co-operate with them, he said.

Peter Sullivan at the Court of Appeal in May - Julia Quenzler/Reuters

On Aug 1 1986, Sindall was beaten to death after being sexually assaulted in an alley. She had been walking to the nearest garage having run out of petrol.

Mr Sullivan, who was later arrested and charged, was dubbed the Beast of Birkenhead or the wolfman because bite marks had been found on the victims body.

The names, theyll always stick with me because Ive never been anything like that, he said.

Mr Sullivan also claimed he was told if he did not confess he would be charged with 35 other rapes, and said he was denied food and sleep.

No solicitor present

Despite records showing he has learning difficulties, a confession was recorded by Mr Sullivan while no solicitor was present. He later retracted it.

He said he initially admitted to something he did not do because the bullying forced me to throw my hands in, because I couldnt take it any more.

During his imprisonment, Mr Sullivan was banned from attending his mothers funeral because she was buried in the same cemetery as Sinall.

However, he said she had been inspirational in making sure he never gave up.

My mum turned around to me before she died, and said, I want you to carry on fighting this case because youve done nothing wrong, he said.

Jailed for life

Mr Sullivan, who always protested his innocence, was jailed for life in 1987 and ordered to serve a minimum of 16 years before he would become eligible to apply for parole.

But because he always maintained his innocence, he was never approved for release on licence.

Mr Sullivan first raised his case with the Criminal Cases Review Commission  the body set up to look for potential miscarriages of justice  in 2008 but was rejected.

He applied again in 2021 after new forensic work discovered the DNA of an unknown man at the scene.

At a hearing in May, he appeared tearful as his conviction was formally quashed.

Mr Sullivan said he felt sorry for Sindalls family and offered to be there by their side if they wanted.

I really do feel sorry for them and what theyre going through at the moment, where theyre back at square one and not knowing who the person is that killed their daughter, he said.

If they need  if they want  my support when they go to court with the guy, when they find him, I will go to court with them.

Sarah Myatt, Mr Sullivans solicitor of more than 20 years, confirmed Mr Sullivan had started the lengthy compensation application process, which is capped at up to 1.3m.

He is such a brave, humble man, she said.

Theres not a figure that you could say that would be enough for losing 38 years of your life.

Merseyside Police refused to issue him an apology, as a spokesman said: The force regrets that there has been a grave miscarriage of justice in this case.

The force said Mr Sullivans allegations of police brutality to get a confession were not recorded at the time and that there is no additional detail in relation to the allegation such as where, when and by whom this took place.

It added that it was very difficult to comment on practices at that time when seen through the lens of today.

The spokesman added: We understand the detrimental impact the conviction has had on the life of Mr Sullivan and do not underestimate the significance of being imprisoned for 38 years on his well-being.

We are doing everything we can to find out who the new DNA evidence, which formed the basis of his release, belongs to.

Merseyside Police said it had voluntarily referred itself to the IOPC, where no misconduct was identified and as such no further review was necessitated.

Due to the changes to investigative techniques and developments in the law over the last 40 years there would be little benefit to be gained for a review of this matter today, it added.
Rebecca Culley confessed to being a spoilt brat who had taken advantage of her widowed grandfathers generosity - Cavendish Press (Manchester) Ltd

A woman stole 90,000 from her grandfather and then blamed spoilt brat syndrome, a court heard.

Rebecca Culley, 34, set up online banking for widower Thomas Culley, who is in his 70s, after agreeing to help care for him.

When he allowed her to use his debit card to buy bits and bobs, she secretly looted all his savings over a two-year period.

Police were called in after Mr Culleys HSBC account was left empty following the thefts.

It emerged his granddaughter, from Runcorn, Cheshire, who graduated in psychology and counselling at Staffordshire University, had bought multiple items with the stolen money, including spending 2,500 on his Argos store card to buy Christmas presents for her three children.

When questioned, Culley insisted her grandfather had given her permission to use his bank cards, but she later confessed to being a spoilt brat who had taken advantage of his generosity.

At Chester Crown Court, Culley admitted three charges of theft but was spared jail. Her 20-month jail term was suspended for two years. She also must complete 20 days of rehabilitation activity and six months of mental health treatment.

The thefts occurred between March 2021 and February 2023 after Culley split her living arrangements between her own home and that of Mr Culley to help care for him.

Rebecca Culley, who graduated in psychology and counselling at Staffordshire University, admitted three charges of theft - Cavendish Press (Manchester) Ltd

Alexandra Carrier, prosecuting, said: He trusted her with a bank card and credit card and the defendant assisted with day-to-day shopping and, in his own words, with bits and bobs.

He was generous but did not give the defendant free range to use the account and without his knowledge. However, she had set up online banking and was able to carry out contactless payments and transactions online.

She bought multiple items and spent considerable amounts of money using the victims account. The matter only came to an end when the current account was emptied. There has been a breach of a high degree of trust and an element of sophistication and planning. There is significant value and emotional distress.

Inquiries revealed Culley transferred money to her own account on at least 100 occasions and used contactless payments to purchase more than 57 items. The total loss was 90,360.11 but HSBC has since refunded Mr Culley. He declined to provide a victim personal statement.

Simeon Evans, mitigating, said: Miss Culley was raised by her grandparents as there was a difficult background in respect of both her natural parents. What she should have been was eternally grateful to her grandparents.

You were stealing money hand over fist

Judge Steven Everett said: I accept her grandfather clearly wanted her to receive what seems to be significant amounts of money. Nevertheless she was taking money when he did not know about it, in amounts that he did not know about. She hit the nail on the head herself when she said that what she suffered from was spoilt brat syndrome.

I suspect your grandfather will look at this and ask himself What did I do to my granddaughter that made her do these things to me? That is something you have to live with.

You had a difficult childhood through no fault of your own and at some stage you came to regard your grandmother and grandfather effectively as your alternative parents. They obviously cared for you and it is clear that your grandfather was very generous to you.

But you took advantage of that generosity at a difficult time when your grandmother had just died. You were stealing money hand over fist belonging to him without his knowledge. That was a significant breach of trust he placed in you and when you were helping to care for him.

Spoilt brat syndrome is not a formal medical diagnosis but refers to the immature, self-centred, and disrespectful behaviour that can result from parental overindulgence.
We love tourists in Michigan, and we definitely want them to come and visit the places where tourists go. There are some other spots, though, that Michiganders prefer to keep on the down-low, places where we can have an experience similar to those of more popular spots but without the traffic or crowds. Heres a trio of our favorite places that locals love in Michigan.

1. Warren Dunes State Park  Sawyer

Youll find Warren Dunes State Park along the Lake Michigan shoreline, just north of the Indiana border near Sawyer. On the other side of the border lie Indiana Dunes National Park, which is tickled by Chicago sprawl on its southern edge, and the Indiana state park of the same name. As far as Michiganders are concerned, however, Chicagoans and Hoosiers can keep their dunes.

You can get the same Lake Michigan beach vibes and the dune hikes that youd experience in the national park at Warren Dunes State Park. Better still, you get the experience without the crowds or traffic-or the views of smokestacks spewing vapor along Indianas industrial Lake Michigan shoreline south of the national park. Instead, at Warren Dunes, you get sweeping views of blue water, blue sky, pristine beaches, and undulating hills of sand among the trees and shore grass. There are also plenty of excellent hiking trails that rival those of the national park.

2. Hancock

Photo by Maddur  stock.adobe.com

Folks in Michigan love to explore and celebrate the cultures of their ancestors, and tourists often flock to the places where such celebrations of culture are most apparent. Two prime examples are Frankenmuth, which offers a little taste of Bavaria on the Lower Peninsula, and Holland, where you can enjoy a slice of Dutch heritage on the Lake Michigan shoreline. Frankenmuth is home to just over 5,000 people, but more than 3 million visitors descend on the village each year. Around 35,000 people live in Holland, but nearly 20 times that number arrive in town for the annual Tulip Time Festival alone.

Tourism is certainly good for business, but it does make it difficult for locals to enjoy the things that tourists flock to see. Thats why Michiganders are glad tourists have not yet overrun the charming town of Hancock on the scenic Keweenaw Peninsula. Hancock is arguably the most Finnish town outside of Finland and a wonderful place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the Finns culture without hopping a flight to Helsinki. The city is home to the Finnish American Heritage Center, the Finnish American Reporter-an English language newspaper for following Finnish news-and was once home to Finlandia University. Many of the street signs and business names in the town are even displayed in both English and Finnish. The community also participates in numerous traditional Finnish events throughout the year, including the mid-winter festival of Heikinpaiva and the Juhannus summer solstice celebration. Hancock is a wonderful place to visit and experience a different culture without the crowds often found in other popular spots.

3. Isle Royale National Park

Photo by Keith Gilbert  stock.adobe.com

Speaking of Hancock and other states national parks, one more thing Michiganders would like to keep to themselves is Isle Royale National Park. Isle Royale, located in the northwest quadrant of Lake Superior, can only be reached by boat (such as the ferry from Houghton-Hancock) or floatplane. This helps to make it one of the least visited national parks in the country. According to National Park Service statistics, a total of 28,806 people visited Isle Royale in 2024. By contrast, Indiana Dunes received more than 2.7 million visitors. Even Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore on the U.P. had more than 950,000 visitors in 2024.

Relatively low levels of visitorship have helped to preserve Isle Royales delicate ecosystem, although it definitely sees its share of wear and tear-just not at the same levels as other parks. This is also part of what allows Isle Royale to maintain its wilderness character as a forested archipelago surrounded by the worlds largest freshwater lake, where moose, wolves, and their brethren are the only year-round residents. And Michiganders would like to keep it that way.

While we love tourism in the Great Lakes State, locals also like to keep some as-yet undiscovered gems in Michigan under wraps so they can enjoy them without all the crowds-like the three spots listed here. What are some other gems locals love in Michigan? Wed love to hear about your favorites on our Nomination page.

If youre ready to explore more of the Great Lakes States amazing places, check out Only In Your State's AI-powered itinerary planner to help you decide where to go next.
Six boxes of La Colombe coffee lined up on table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

ICYMI, I'm a huge coffee enthusiast. My obsession began with what was supposed to be a side job in a cafe in Northern Virginia. Upon going through the company's barista training and discovering that no two coffees are alike (shocker, I know), I've made it my mission to craft perfect brews and taste every single-origin coffee I can get my hands on. Why single origin? Blends certainly have their place, as do flavored cups (I did love the fall lineup from Bones Coffee Co.), but brewing beans grown in a single location really lets you get a fuller sense of their character. You'll find lots of wild tasting notes in single-origin coffees because the beans aren't diluted with those from another terrain.

That said, of course I jumped at the chance to try the full line of single-origin coffee beans from La Colombe (which you may know from having its draft lattes). Ranking single-origin beans isn't the easiest task  each is vastly different from the next, and everyone has their own tasting note and brew intensity preferences. Before going into this ranking, I'll clue you in to my own palate. I love bright, light-roasted coffees that boast ample fruity and floral notes. The best coffee I ever tried tasted like a blueberry tea. My own preferences will come into play when ranking the following, but I'll also take into account more objective views of the brew, considering which tasting notes come through and how each stacks up to other single-origin beans I've had from the country (where applicable). For more about how I'm approaching this piece, refer to the end of the article.

Some recommendations are based on firsthand impressions of promotional materials and products provided by the manufacturer.

Read more: 10 Instant Espresso Brands, Ranked Worst To Best

6. Waymaker

Box of La Colombe Waymaker next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

Given what I said above, you probably aren't surprised to see that the one "Darker Roast" coffee on this list takes last place. But this is a good time to give my overarching opinion of the beans  if you want to do your own single-origin taste test, you won't go wrong buying La Colombe's lineup. Though Waymaker (of Colombian origin) was my least favorite of the coffees I received, in terms of dark roasts, I quite liked it. If I were comparing this to other dark roasts I've had in the past, it would easily come in near the top of the list.

Yes, the coffee is definitely dark, but it's far more palatable than I usually find dark roasts to be. You don't get any burnt or bitter flavors here, and I was pleasantly surprised to find that the beans weren't at all oily (which you'll commonly find with ultra-dark roasts from big brands). I got ample cocoa notes. I often say it's a cop-out to claim chocolate and caramel notes in dark coffees  those notes will always come out the longer you roast any coffee, and they don't really indicate anything special, but they're apparent and tasty in this cup. It's rich and smooth enough that I could easily be persuaded to drink it black; at the same time, it wouldn't get lost if paired with cream. Congrats, La Colombe  you roasted a dark coffee I actually dig.

5. Nicaragua Morning Magic

Box of La Colombe Nicaragua Morning Magic next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

Were these Nicaraguan beans my favorite? No. Will I be brewing them again? For sure. I'd call this one of the most mellow cups of the bunch, but I don't at all mean that as a bad thing. It's very well-rounded and won't surprise any consumer, but still provides enough uniqueness to keep your morning interesting. I recommend drinking this cup black before adding anything to it  it's certainly smooth enough to not need accoutrements.

I got tons of fruity cherry notes in this cup, whereas the chocolate was more subtle. I really enjoyed the dark stone fruit appeal, which, combined with the slight toasty notes, gives this cup a lot of depth and character. It leans slightly more acidic in that it sat on the roof of my mouth with a sort of zing. Morning Magic is very fruit-forward and I did quite like it, but at the end of the day, the following beans just appealed to me more.

4. Ethiopia Yirgacheffe

Box of La Colombe Ethiopia Yirgacheffe next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

Ethiopia is my favorite coffee origin country (closely followed by Kenya and Rwanda  I adore African coffees), so, yes, my bias is showing here. But that's not necessarily a bad thing. I was actually less impressed with this cup than I typically am with Ethiopian coffees, which is why it's only getting the fourth spot on my list. However, I couldn't rank it lower because I think these beans would make a really good introductory cup if you're not quite ready for the bright, fruity acidity of a light-roast Ethiopian coffee.

Personally, I'd never go any darker than a light roast for a Yirgacheffe coffee. I've found that Yirgacheffes shine as light roasts, but I won't fault La Colombe for making this one medium  it'll allow the beans to appeal to an entirely different audience. That said, what I usually look for in a Yirgacheffe wasn't there when I drank this. It wasn't as bright and acidic as I expected, and I had trouble getting the lemon zest noted on the box. Peach (and stone fruit in general) did come through, and I got some warming notes reminiscent of vanilla. There's a full richness to this cup that gives it a lot of character while still remaining palatable, and it'll make an exceptionally good Yirgacheffe for those just branching out in their coffee journey.

3. Colombia San Roque

Box of La Colombe Colombia next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

These final three coffees were impressive, and I've tried my fair share of single-origin beans, so that's saying something. I was especially surprised to rank the Colombia beans this high. Colombian beans are pretty standard in the North American coffee biz, which isn't to say they're bad, just that I'm not regularly impressed by them. So, I didn't expect much from this cup  what I got, though, made me rethink how I view beans of Colombian origin.

Perhaps it's because most Colombian coffees I've tried are a medium roast, and this one is lighter (my preferred roast anyway). But this was an exceptional coffee that displayed everything you'd expect to find in Colombian beans, dialed up to 10. I got ample cherry and chocolate notes, and though I didn't really get the "cola" aspect listed on the box, there was a sweetness to the coffee that I didn't expect. Bright citrus came through, as well. At the end of the day, I didn't find this to be a standard Colombian bean  rather, I thought it one that exemplifies how Colombian beans should be enjoyed. Will I be changing my tune from now on and seeking out light-roast Colombian coffees? Most likely.

2. Tanzania Natural Wonder

Box of La Colombe Tanzania Natural Wonder next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

I can't say I have a ton of experience with Tanzanian coffees, but you can bet your bottom dollar I'll be familiarizing myself with this origin country more after trying these beans. The fact that they're a medium roast and got the second-to-top spot on my list should tell you everything you need to know about these beans  namely, that I was a little starstruck by them. And admittedly, as a sucker for aesthetics, the gorgeous box art only helped matters.

To get as much bright, fruity character out of a medium roast as I found in this cup is quite the feat. Lemon (and zingy citrus in general) sat at the forefront of the sip, but the cup quickly mellowed out with some deep berry notes. It's very light for a medium roast and has a ton of character  so much so that I could see this being a divisive cup. If you like your coffee on the wilder side of the flavor spectrum, you should absolutely try this bag. It won't be very amenable to cream, but honestly, I'd hate to taint it with any accompaniments anyway. It's just really good, pure, and very much my ideal cup.

1. Ethiopia Myth Maker

Box of La Colombe Ethiopia Myth Maker next to bag of beans spilling out onto table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

However, the Tanzania simply couldn't match up to La Colombe's Ethiopia Myth Maker. The two were very similar, though if you look at the beans side-by-side, you can tell the Ethiopian beans are roasted just a touch lighter than the Tanzanian. One thing I especially adored about this cup was that it managed to be bright, interesting, and still amenable to a variety of preferences. In other words, if you're a little scared of floral and fruity coffees but want to try them out, this would be a really good entry point.

I got ample floral and citrus appeal right after sipping the cup. It has that bright punchy-ness that I absolutely adore in Ethiopian coffees, but that quickly gave way to a creamy quality that provided a ton of balance. While I love tasting straight berries throughout a sip, other palates will prefer the journey this takes you on, moving from something a bit wild to something tamer, ultimately finishing very smooth and easy. This was a well-rounded, impressive cup that will easily become my go-to, and I think it will impress coffee experts and novices alike.

Methodology

Box of La Colombe Waymaker next to brewed mug of coffee on table - Emily Hunt / Tasting Table

I occasionally do cuppings when trying coffee, but I've found that I prefer tasting coffees as regular brews. So, for this taste test, I went through the full process of making a pour-over for each of the coffees. I tried them sequentially and ranked them right after trying them, so there was no time gap to alter my preferences. I ranked each based primarily on my own personal preferences, also taking into account how each coffee compared to others I've tried from the region. Waymaker was my least favorite, but it was still an exceptionally good dark cup.

I encourage you to read my descriptions and choose your coffee accordingly  don't just pick my top choice because it was my favorite. Everyone has different coffee preferences; for example, I know that Waymaker would be my best friend's favorite, as she loves my dark roast coffee pods. If you can swing it, buy the full line and do your own tasting with your friends. I promise  it'll make for a fun time.

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Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Gov. Greg Abbott signs bills to protect Texas from foreign adversaries. Photo: Bethany Blankley / The Center Square

(The Center Square)  Gov. Greg Abbott is the first governor in the United States to designate two Muslim groups as Foreign Terrorist and Transnational Criminal Organizations.

On Tuesday, he made the designations by proclamation citing multiple Texas laws.

He designated the Muslim Brotherhood and Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) as FTOs, authorizing heightened enforcement against both organizations and their affiliates. The designation also prohibits them from purchasing or acquiring land in Texas.

The Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR have long made their goals clear: to forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islams mastership of the world," Abbott said. "The actions taken by the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR to support terrorism across the globe and subvert our laws through violence, intimidation, and harassment are unacceptable. Today, I designated the Muslim Brotherhood and CAIR as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations. These radical extremists are not welcome in our state and are now prohibited from acquiring any real property interest in Texas.

The Society of Muslim Brothers, known as Jama at al-Ikhwan al-Muslimin (Muslim Brotherhood) was founded in Egypt more than 100 years ago with a stated committment to Islamic jihad (fighting unbelievers) and imposing Sharia (Islamic) law worldwide, the proclamation states. The group is connected to multiple terrorist organizations, including Hamas, and has been banned in multiple Middle Eastern countries like Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The proclamation also cites a 2009 federal case, U.S. v Holy Land Foundation, in which CAIR was named as an unindicted co-conspirator in a federal terrorism financing case linking CAIR to the Muslim Brotherhood and Hamas.

It also cites former CAIR board members, speakers and staff who were sentenced to prison for financing terrorism, conspiring to aid Al Qaeda and the Taliban, bank and visa fraud, financing terrorist causes overseas, violating U.S. sanctions against Iraq, and who were deported for violating federal laws.

The proclamation cites multiple bills passed by the state legislature to strengthen state efforts to combat terrorism and prevent terrorist-affiliated groups from purchasing land in Texas as justification to ban Muslim Brotherhood, CAIR and affiliated groups from purchasing or acquiring land in Texas.

Abbott made the designation after U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz, R-Texas, filed a bill multiple times over the past 10 years to amend the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1987 to ban all Muslim Brotherhood members from the U.S., The Center Square reported.

The Muslim Brotherhood is a terrorist organization, Cruz has argued. Its members are committed to the overthrow and destruction of America and other non-Islamist governments across the world, and pose an acute threat to American national security interests, he said when introducing the bill again in July. American allies in the Middle East and Europe have already labeled the Brotherhood a terrorist organization, and the United States should do the same, and do so expeditiously.

The bill would make Muslim Brotherhood members ineligible for visas or admittance to the U.S., revoke visas of all non-U.S. citizens who are confirmed Muslim Brotherhood members and deport them. It also requires the secretary of State to impose sanctions on all groups directly or indirectly controlled by the Muslim Brotherhood, including Hamas.

CAIR, which has sued Abbott arguing his antisemitism crackdown on college campuses was unconstitutional, mocked the designation.

Greg Abbott is an Israel First politician who has spent months stoking anti-Muslim hysteria to smear American Muslims critical of the Israeli government, CAIR said in a statement. Although we are flattered by his obsession with our civil rights group, his defamatory proclamation has no basis in fact or law.

Unlike Mr. Abbott  who unleashed violence against Texas students protesting the Gaza genocide to satisfy his AIPAC donors  our civil rights organization is an independent voice that answers to the American people, relies on support from the American people, and opposes all forms of unjust violence, including hate crimes, ethnic cleansing, genocide and terrorism.

The Islamic group also said it is ready to sue [Gov. Abbott] again if he attempts to turn this publicity stunt into real policy.
Anti-Islam activists and pro-Muslim counter-protesters clashed on Tuesday in Dearborn, Michigan, prompting a heavy police presence.

Dearborn, home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the country, has recently become a target for activists who accuse it of operating under "Sharia law," according to MLive.

The clash began when Jake Lang, who participated in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol riot, arrived on Michigan Avenue and attempted to burn a Quran, the outlet reported.

Lang held up a lighter attempting to light the religious text on fire, but counter-protesters knocked it from his hands.

Muslim Dearborn Mayor Weighs In On Residents' Complaints About Mosque's Call To Prayer

Jake Lang held lighter fluid as a counter-protester confronted him during a demonstration in Dearborn, Michigan, Nov. 18, 2025.

Later, Lang slapped the Quran with a slab of bacon before a counter-protester grabbed the book and took off with it.

Read On The Fox News App

Lang and his group later marched toward City Hall ahead of the City Council meeting Tuesday night.

Police maintained a perimeter on the sidewalks and along Michigan Avenue, intervening briefly when the clash escalated following Langs attempted burning of the book.

One person was seen being arrested at City Hall, according to MLive. No injuries were reported.

Anti-Muslim protester Jake Lang uses pork to hit a Quran in front of counter-protesters in Dearborn, Michigan, Nov. 18, 2025.

The chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, Curtis Hertel, condemned the attempted burning of the Quran.

Dearborn Mayor Refuses To Apologize For Telling Christian Minister He Was 'Not Welcome Here'

Dearborn is home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the country.

"Attempting to burn a religious document is an unacceptable act of hate," Hertel said in a statement. "Dearborn is a beloved, multicultural city with tens of thousands of people who are cherished friends, family members, and neighbors."

Michigan gubernatorial candidate Anthony Hudson, a Republican, walked with supporters along the sidewalk as part of a demonstration that appeared unconnected to Lang's, according to MLive.

Hudson had initially planned a protest in Dearborn, calling it an "American Crusade" against "Muslim infiltration" and "Sharia Law," according to a news release from the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

But after visiting three mosques in the area, Hudson said there are many false and misleading narratives about Dearborn being spread and that all he found from Muslims in Dearborn was hospitality, according to the release. He also said he was opposed to outsiders traveling to Dearborn with plans to burn the Quran.

Michigan Republican gubernatorial candidate Anthony Hudson leads what he calls a "unity rally" and march in Dearborn, Michigan.

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"We welcome Mr. Hudsons remorse for his admitted fearmongering against the Dearborn community and American Muslims in general," CAIR-MI Executive Director Dawud Walid said in the release. "We invite him to further discussions to learn about the Islamic faith and what Muslims generally believe counter to false narratives and misinformation perpetuated by those with political agendas."

In response to Hudsons change of heart, Lang spray-painted the word "cuck" on his campaign bus in Dearborn, criticizing him for "selling out," MLive reported.





Original article source: Anti-Islam protesters, Muslims clash in Dearborn, Michigan, after man attempts to burn Quran
A North Carolina emblem features the state flag, a cardinal, and dogwood flowers, symbolizing the Tarheel State. Photo: Alan Wooten / The Center Square

(The Center Square)  Failed leadership of a hurricane recovery program initiated by Roy Cooper was found bad enough that a North Carolina lawmaker told her she had proven untrustworthy with taxpayers money.

Laura Hogshead was asked to resign, refused initially and then did, and then the former two-term Democratic governors program wasnt even continued by his friend, colleague and successor Josh Stein after his Jan. 1 inauguration. Wednesday in Goldsboro, first-term Republican state Auditor Dave Bolieks report on the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliencys Homeowner Recovery Program showed the depth of ineptitude existing in administration of more than $1 billion in federal and state funding.

State appropriations were $297 million, and $709 million was from federal Community Development Block Grants. The audit said, nearly $785 million in public funds was disbursed to vendors without a single, reconciled source of financial truth or robust oversight.

In the audit, Bolieks staff found:

 The Office of Recovery and Resiliency committed more funds than were available, resulting in a $297 million budget shortfall and requiring emergency State appropriations.

 Poor data quality and delays in processing applications led to prolonged hardship for disaster victims and increased program costs.

 Insufficient budget controls and lack of ongoing financial monitoring contributed to fiscal uncertainty and the need for emergency funding.

 Inadequate oversight of vendors and weak contract management resulted in higher costs and operational inefficiencies.

The unfortunate truth of this report is the response from North Carolina to Hurricanes Matthew and Florence was a disaster, Boliek said. When government decides to focus on administrative procedures ahead of boots on the ground, hurricane victims get hurt.

North Carolina must implement a long-term, comprehensive plan that can be used for decades to come. As state leaders, we owe it to the people of North Carolina to come to the table, institute accountability, and map out a transparent and permanent strategy to respond to hurricanes.

On Nov. 18 of last year, Hogshead in her role as chief operating officer and Pryor Gibson of Coopers office appeared before the joint legislative Hurricane Response and Recovery Subcommittee. After Hurricanes Matthew (2016) and Florence (2018), Cooper had sought to help provide assistance to families impacted by creating the office he entrusted Hogshead to shepherd.

While some did benefit, six and eight years respectively after the major hurricanes only 2,800 new homes had been completed for 4,200 families approved. There was $37 million owed for projects completed, and a possible need for as much as $265 million to complete projects.

Meeting 53 days after Hurricane Helene had torn into the mountains of the state killing 107 and doing an estimated $60 billion to $80 billion damage, lawmakers had been surprised to find tucked within Coopers 99-page, $3.9 billion proposal for Helene relief a request for $175 million for the North Carolina Office of Recovery and Resiliency.

You have proven that you dont have the capability of being trusted with the taxpayers money, Rep. Brenden Jones, R-Columbus, who chaired the meeting, said to Hogshead. No one has any more sympathy or empathy for the people of this state that are affected by the storms than I do. I have to live with them every day ... you dont. You say you care, but you certainly haven't shown it.

Bolieks report identified 3,522 completed projects through April of this year, with 11,654 total applications having been made. The Office of Recovery and Resiliency used three systems to manage the program, requiring applicants to go through eight steps.

Each step took an average of 100 days. Grant determination averaged 936 days, or more than 2 years.

Bolieks report said some families spent more than 1,400 days  almost four years  in temporary housing.

Gibson, in response to the audit, said progress was being made to return the more than 4,200 families approved to their homes and close the program in 2026. He said the office is implementing process improvements with regard to strengthening vendor management, local governments, and construction vendors.

In an email to The Center Square, Cooper's campaign said in part, After Hurricanes Florence and Matthew, the Cooper administration oversaw the repair and rebuilding of more than 13,000 homes that were built to withstand future storms in addition to hundreds of roads, bridges and public buildings, even when the first Trump administration provided only about half of the funding that North Carolina needed."

Matthew and Florence were among four hurricanes in 47 months striking the southeastern part of the state. Dorian (2019) and Isaias (2020) were of lesser damaging strength hitting the same area.

Matthew came ashore Oct. 9, 2016, near McClellanville, S.C., as a Category 1 hurricane after previously being a Category 5. As much as 6 to 18 inches of rain came with it in eastern North Carolina. Florence made landfall Sept. 14, 2018, near Wrightsville Beach as a Category 1 hurricane after having reached Category 4 in the Atlantic Ocean.

Florences significant damage was tied to flooding of more inland rivers as they snaked to the Atlantic Ocean.
A British woman is among five people who died in a snowstorm in Patagonia in Chile.

Victoria Bond, 40, a public relations consultant from Cornwall, was named by authorities in Chile as among those killed in the tourist hotspot of Torres del Paine National Park, in the south of the country.

Along with Ms Bond, two German and two Mexican citizens died in the snowstorm, according to Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate of the Magallanes region of southern Chile. Their bodies were found on Tuesday.

Visit Isles of Scilly chairman Andrew Sells said the organisation, which Ms Bond worked for, was "utterly devastated" by her death.

Visit Isles of Scilly said Ms Bond had headed up its public relations for more than six years and was on a "trip of lifetime" with friends in Argentina and Chile.

She was out hiking when she became trapped in the storm, the organisation said.

Mr Sells said she had "worked tirelessly" in her role to promote the islands, 28 miles off the Cornish coast, and was an "integral part" of the team.

He said: "She was always a joy to work with, and I cannot praise her work too highly. She is an enormous loss to the community."

Euan Rodger, executive vice-chairman of Visit Isles of Scilly, said the organisation was "heartbroken".

"She brought life, energy, and an infectious enthusiasm to every project, making her a true joy to work alongside," he said.

'Leaves a huge hole'

Adrian Jones, who worked with Ms Bond promoting the Roseland Festival in Cornwall, paid tribute to her as "lovable, witty and creative".

"She was a doer... she had ideas and she saw them through," he said.

"She will leave a huge hole in Portscatho... she lived in Newquay but she spent a lot of the time in Portscatho."

He described her as adventurous.

"Unbelievably sad as it may seem, she was doing what she lived life for," he said.

'Intense' snowfall

Chilean officials said the search for victims had ended and the focus was now on repatriating the bodies and liaising with foreign consulates.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font paid tribute to search and rescue teams who worked in "intense" snowfall and winds reaching speeds of up to 118mph (190km/h).

He said in a post on X: "To the families, friends, and loved ones of the five individuals of Mexican, German, and British nationalities who tragically lost their lives in the incident that occurred in Torres del Paine, I extend my deepest condolences.

"Know that you have the full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times."

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died following an incident in Chile and are in contact with the local authorities."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.

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A Southern California couple was convicted of murder and child abuse for stabbing and decapitating two of their children, then forcing their two younger children to view the bodies while keeping them locked up for days without food, officials said.

Maurice Jewel Taylor Sr., 39, and Natalie Sumiko Brothwell, 48, were each found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder, along with the special circumstance of multiple murder, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office. They were also each convicted of child abuse likely to cause great bodily injury or death.

A Los Angeles jury found them guilty on Nov. 18 in what prosecutors described as a "gruesome" case. They face up to life in prison without the possibility of parole and a consecutive sentence of six years and four months, and are set to be sentenced in January 2026, the DA's office said. Their attorneys didn't immediately respond to a request for comment on Nov. 19.

This was a monstrous act of cruelty that shattered an entire family, Los Angeles County District Attorney Nathan J. Hochman said.

The killings took place on Nov. 29, 2020, at the family home in Lancaster, in the Antelope Valley area of northern Los Angeles County.

Prosecutors said during their trial that the couple had "fatally stabbed and decapitated" their 12-year-old son, Maurice Taylor Jr., and 13-year-old daughter, Maliaka Taylor, according to a district attorney's office statement.

"They then forced their two younger sons, ages 8 and 9, to view their siblings bodies and remain confined in their bedrooms without food for several days," the statement said.

"Two innocent children were brutally murdered, and their young brothers were left to live through unimaginable horror," Hochman said. "The jurys verdict delivers justice for these victims and sends a powerful message: Those who commit such evil acts will be held fully accountable."

Contributing: Jeanine Santucci, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: Parents convicted of decapitating 2 children in 'gruesome case'
Surveillance image showed the missing 9-year-old Melodee Buzzard last month. - Santa Barbara County Sheriff's Office

Nine-year-old Melodee Buzzard has been missing for over a month after she was last seen with her mother wearing wigs on a cross-country road trip.

The mother, Ashlee Buzzard, returned to their California home without Melodee, did not report her daughter missing and has declined to cooperate with law enforcement, according to the Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office.

The FBI has joined in the search for Melodee, and the case has drawn widespread attention well outside of Southern California. In all, the set of circumstances has raised serious red flags about Melodees well-being and about potential criminal wrongdoing for Buzzard.

Still, investigators have not charged Buzzard with a crime related to Melodees disappearance.

So, what gives?

Its just not, A kids missing. They havent been seen. Lets arrest the mother, CNN legal analyst Joey Jackson said of how law enforcement operates. What are the specific factual circumstances that would make the mother responsible?

In any case, you need probable cause, he added. Is there reason to believe that a crime was committed and the subject of the person being arrested committed it?

CNN spoke to several legal experts and re-examined other high-profile missing children cases to better understand the potential path forward in Melodees case.

The sheriffs office, with assistance from the FBI, has been searching for Melodee and has publicly released some information from the critical time period of the road trip from October 7 to 10. Still, investigators may have more evidence that has not been released to the public, making it difficult to speculate on the case.

Melodee Buzzard was reported missing by a school administrator on October 14. - FBI

What theyre waiting for is evidence if she should be charged, and if so, with what, Los Angeles Loyola Law School Professor Laurie Levenson said. This one is still kind of a mystery. We know something is amiss: All of the wigs, the travel, the concerns that people are showing. I think those are legitimate that something is amiss, but we just dont know what it is.

Melodee went missing last month

The search for Melodee began on October 14 when a school administrator reported the girl had been absent for a prolonged period of time.

Officers searched the home, but Melodee was nowhere to be found, officials said. Her mother could not provide a reasonable explanation for her whereabouts and has been uncooperative with investigators, the sheriffs office said.

The investigation into Melodees whereabouts has focused on her and her mothers movements during a 1,000-mile road trip from their home in Lompoc, California, to Nebraska. On October 7, Ashlee Buzzard left California with Melodee, driving a rented white 2024 Chevrolet Malibu, and returned three days later without the girl. That period is now a critical time frame for investigators, the sheriffs office said.

Surveillance footage from a rental car business in Lompoc showed the mother-daughter pair wearing wigs on October 7, the sheriffs office said. Further, the rental cars license plate was changed midway through the trip in what the sheriffs office said is believed to be an attempt to avoid detection.

Investigators also believe that Ashlee swapped wigs throughout the trip, changing to a darker wig that is similar in color and style to the one Melodee was seen wearing, the sheriffs office said in a November 6 statement. This change in appearance is believed to have been intentional to avoid recognition during travel.

On November 7, the sheriffs office announced the mother was arrested on a felony false imprisonment charge for allegedly using a box cutter and preventing an adult man from leaving a location against their will.

She pleaded not guilty and was released from custody with GPS monitoring.

The charge was dismissed and her pre-trial supervision ended on Thursday after the judge did not find sufficient probable cause, a spokesperson for the Santa Barbara District Attorneys Office told CNN. The hearing featured testimony from the accuser, according to CNN affiliate KSBY.

Buzzards attorney, Adrian Galvan, declined to comment to CNN about the investigation into Melodees whereabouts.

A spokesperson for the Santa Barbara Sheriffs Office said Wednesday night Ashlee Buzzard was in consistent contact with investigators and they have not had any additional information that they are prepared to release.

Family members said they had lost touch with Melodee and Ashlee Buzzard in recent years. Melodees father died from a motorcycle crash when the girl was only 6 months old, CNN affiliate KSBY reported.

The next steps in the investigation

Investigators are likely to continue tracing the steps of the road trip as they search for physical evidence, digital communications and witnesses, legal experts told CNN.

What theyre doing is what they should be doing, CNN chief law enforcement and intelligence analyst John Miller explained. They are taking their time. They are being meticulous. They are building the pieces of a case that may come together if and when they do have evidence to arrest her.

The sheriff's office released a map of Ashlee and Melodee Buzzard's route on a road trip last month. - Santa Barbara County Sheriffs Office

As for Buzzard, her uncooperative stance may be frustrating for investigators, but the Fifth Amendment guarantees everyone the right to silence in an interrogation.

There is no legal imperative at all, under any circumstance, no matter how bad things might look for you in public opinion, for you to say anything, Jackson said.

Other missing children cases

In two high-profile cases involving missing children, the parents were initially charged with lesser counts as investigators continued to search for more evidence.

Florida mother Casey Anthony, for one, was initially charged with child neglect, providing false statements to police and obstruction in July 2008 in the disappearance of her 2-year-old daughter Caylee Anthony. The child had last been seen a month earlier and was reported missing by her grandparents.

Casey Anthony was found not guilty of murder in the death of her 2-year-old daughter Caylee Anthony. - Red Huber/Pool/Getty Images

Months later, in October of that year, Anthony was indicted on a first-degree murder charge. The decomposed body of her daughter was found in December 2008.

A jury ultimately acquitted her of murder but convicted her on four counts of providing false information to police.

Or consider the case of the Idaho mother Lori Vallow Daybell.

Her children, JJ and Tylee, were last seen in September 2019, and relatives raised concerns about their whereabouts two months later. In February 2020, Vallow Daybell was arrested in Hawaii on suspicion of two felony counts of desertion and nonsupport of dependent children.

The childrens bodies were found in June 2020, and Vallow Daybell and her husband, Chad Daybell, were then indicted on murder charges in May 2021. Both were later convicted of murder in the childrens deaths.

How Melodees case will play out remains a mystery. In the near term, investigators focus will remain on finding her and her well-being.

There are so many open questions at this point, Levenson said. Right now, I think the priority is probably less the charges and more finding the kid.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs Elizabeth Wolfe, Holly Yan, Michelle Watson and Jean Casarez contributed to this report. Amanda Watts also contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
China will suspend imports of Japanese seafood, according to ABC News partner NHK, escalating a diplomatic dispute triggered by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis recent comments suggesting Tokyo could take military action if China attacks Taiwan.

Chinese authorities said the import halt is necessary to monitor treated wastewater being released from the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant, according to Japanese broadcaster NHK.

China had only recently resumed buying Japanese marine products after imposing a ban when Japan began releasing the wastewater in 2023 after the Fukushima plant was damaged in the 2011 earthquake.

MORE: What the US-China deal means for rare earths, soybean farmers and TikTok

The move comes as tensions spike between the two countries following Takaichi's remarks to parliament that a hypothetical Chinese attack on Taiwan could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan -- a formal classification that could justify a military response. Beijing saw this statement as a challenge to its claim of sovereignty over independent Taiwan.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said Wednesday that Takaichi's statements "fundamentally damaged the political foundation of China-Japan relations," adding that there was "no longer a market for Japanese seafood" as a result.

Japan has since warned its citizens in China to take safety precautions and avoid crowded places. China has also advised its citizens against traveling to Japan and postponed the release of two Japanese films.

A senior Japanese official met his Chinese counterpart in Beijing on Tuesday, but the talks made no progress. Chinese diplomat Liu Jinsong later made rare comments to state media, saying he was "dissatisfied" with the meeting.

Pedro Pardo/AFP via Getty Images - PHOTO: Fish are seen in a stall at the Jingshen seafood market in Beijing on Nov. 19, 2025. China will suspend imports of Japanese seafood, media reports in Tokyo said, as a diplomatic spat between the countries deepens.

Mao warned Wednesday that "if Japan refuses to retract its remarks, or even continues to make wrong moves, China will have no choice but to take severe and resolute countermeasures, and Japan will bear all the consequences that arise."

China has also summoned Japan's ambassador and publicly warned that Japan would face a "crushing military defeat" if it intervened militarily in Taiwan.

The dispute marks one of the sharpest downturns in relations between China and Japan in recent years, reopening long-standing tensions over security, history and regional influence in the Indo-Pacific.

On Sunday, Chinese coast guard vessels sailed through waters surrounding a group of disputed East China Sea islands. Japan's coast guard said it drove the ships away. The islands, known as the Senkaku in Japan and the Diaoyu in China, have long been a flashpoint, particularly since Japan nationalized them in 2012.

Japan also scrambled fighter jets Saturday after China flew a drone between Taiwan and Japan's Yonaguni Island in a move Tokyo called provocative, though not unprecedented.

MORE: Nvidia earnings captivate investors as fears of AI bubble grow

Chinese state media and diplomats have escalated rhetoric online, including one consul general who posted, and then deleted, a comment saying "the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off."

U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass weighed in on social media, criticizing Chinese officials and writing that "Halloween has been and gone" after a Chinese diplomat called Takaichi an "evil witch."

Meanwhile, China's travel warning for Japan has added economic pressure as Japanese tourism and retail stocks fell 5% to more than 10% just this week amid fears that a downturn in Chinese visitors, who make up roughly a quarter of all inbound tourism to Japan, could significantly affect the sector.

Japan has attempted to cool tensions by sending senior envoys to Beijing and reiterating that its stance on Taiwan and the "One China" policy has not changed but China's foreign ministry said Premier Li Qiang does not plan to meet Takaichi during this week's G20 summit in South Africa.

Japan ruled Taiwan for 50 years beginning in the late 19th century, leaving complex historical, cultural and economic ties.

Kim Kyung-hoon/Reuters - PHOTO: A customer looks around seafood at a shop in Tokyo, Nov. 19, 2025.

After World War II, the island was placed under the control of China's Nationalist government, which later fled to Taiwan after losing the civil war to the Chinese Communist Party. The Communist government in Beijing, however, claims sovereignty over the island despite having never directly governed it.

Japan today maintains unofficial relations with Taiwan but has grown more outspoken about regional security concerns. Several of Japan's westernmost islands lie approximately 70 miles away from Taiwan.

The dispute is unfolding as competition between the United States and China has been intensifying across the Indo-Pacific as Japan hosts the largest concentration of U.S. military personnel outside the United States.

Washingtons response so far has been measured but firm after Glass' comments condemning hostile rhetoric from Chinese diplomats as unprofessional and urging de-escalation without directly challenging Chinas core claims on Taiwan.
Getty Images Claudia Schiffer at Paris Fashion Week in 2025.

The Gist

Claudia Schiffer's lookalike daughter Clementine wore a form-fitting silk corset top in a series of photos shared to Instagram.

The 21-year-old is a carbon copy of her supermodel mom.

Clementine is currently attempting to follow in Schiffer's legendary footsteps.

Claudia Schiffer's daughter may not be a top model just yet, but judging by her latest Instagram post, Clementine Poppy De Vere Drummond isn't camera shy. The 21-year-old took to the social media app to share a photo dump from what appears to be a Wild West-themed party; in the images, she models a form-fitting silk corset that leaves little to the imagination. Clementine paired the daring top with a brown lace-up belt and matching off-white elastic pants.

Finally, she captioned the post with three emojis: "."

Instagram/Clementine Poppy De Vere Drummond Claudia Schiffer's daughter Clementine at a party with friends.

Instagram/Clementine Poppy De Vere Drummond Claudia Schiffer's daughter Clementine at a party with friends.

Clementine is Schiffer's eldest daughter with her longtime husband Matthew Vaughn. The couple also share a son named Casper and a second daughter named Cosima.

"I am much more self-confident today because of my children and my husband," Schiffer once said in an interview with Welt am Sonntag, per People. "I know what I am doing, what I want [and] I am in control of myself.

Getty Images Claudia Schiffer signing autographs in New York City in 1992.

Clementine, for her part, is hoping to follow in her mother's modeling footsteps. The lookalike duo made their debut together on the cover of Vogue Germany when she was just a few months old. Many years later, Clementine moved to New York City to pursue her dreams of working in the fashion industry.

Ive seen the end of success, she recently told British Vogue. I want to see the start of itthe hustle and bustle.

As for whether or not her mom had any career advice? "Always drink water, it shows on your face," Schiffer instructed, per Clementine.

Read the original article on InStyle
State Farm, GEICO, and USAA are among the cheapest car insurance providers in Alaska.

In Alaska, full-coverage car insurance averages $117 per month, compared to the national average of $186. Your actual cost depends on multiple factors, such as your age, driving history, and where you live. Getting quotes from several insurance companies is the most effective way to determine your personal rate.

This guide breaks down Alaska's most affordable car insurance options by coverage type, driver profile, and insurance company.

Affordable full-coverage car insurance in Alaska

Full-coverage insurance in Alaska averages $117 monthly, compared to $186 nationally. Among the cheapest car insurance providers in Alaska are State Farm, GEICO, and USAA.

Average monthly full coverage cost Alaska average $117 National average $186 State Farm $127 GEICO $131 USAA $143 Allstate $221

Affordable liability-only car insurance in Alaska

For most affordable liability car insurance providers in Alaska, State Farm, GEICO, and USAA lead the pack.

In Alaska, liability-only coverage averages $85 monthly, while the national average sits at $104.

Average monthly liability-only cost Alaska average $85 National average $104 State Farm $93 GEICO $96 USAA $105 Allstate $162

Cheap car insurance in Alaska by age

Age significantly impacts insurance costs. Teenage drivers typically face the steepest rates, with car insurance for teens averaging $211 monthly in Alaska because of their limited driving experience.

Rates start declining as drivers enter their 20s, averaging $161 per month. Drivers in their 30s and 40s see continued decreases, paying around $121 and $124 monthly, respectively.

Costs can climb again for drivers in their 60s and older. Alaska seniors average $90 monthly in their 60s and $80 in their 70s.

These age-related premium fluctuations reflect varying risk levels across age groups, with inexperienced younger drivers considered higher risk and older drivers sometimes facing increased rates due to health considerations and changing driving patterns.

Age group Average monthly full coverage cost Average monthly liability-only cost Teens $211 $153 20s $161 $117 30s $121 $88 40s $124 $90 50s $113 $82 60s $90 $65 70s $80 $58

Cheap car insurance in Alaska for high-risk drivers

Drivers with moving violations or accidents typically pay higher insurance premiums. Based on rates for car insurance if you have a bad driving record, here are Alaska's average costs for drivers with an accident, speeding ticket, or DUI.

Violation Average monthly full coverage cost Average monthly liability-only cost Accident $164 $119 Speeding ticket $198 $144 DUI $265 $193

Compare low-cost car insurance after an accident

For Alaska drivers with an accident on their record, State Farm, GEICO, and USAA provide affordable options. Drivers with an accident pay an average of $164 monthly for full coverage.

Company Average monthly full coverage cost Average monthly liability-only cost State Farm $171 $125 GEICO $172 $126 USAA $194 $143

Compare low-cost car insurance after a speeding ticket

Alaska drivers with a speeding ticket can find competitive rates with State Farm, GEICO, and USAA. Full coverage for drivers with a speeding ticket averages $198 per month.

Company Average monthly full coverage cost Average monthly liability-only cost State Farm $187 $137 GEICO $199 $146 USAA $214 $157

Compare low-cost car insurance after DUI conviction

Alaska drivers with a DUI can secure affordable full coverage through State Farm, GEICO, and USAA. Full coverage for drivers with a DUI averages $265.

Company Average monthly full coverage cost Average monthly liability-only cost State Farm $237 $173 GEICO $242 $177 USAA $266 $196

Cheap car insurance in Alaska by credit score

Drivers with excellent credit in Alaska pay an average of $103 monthly. Drivers with poor credit face significantly higher premiums, starting at $154 per month.

This rate difference demonstrates how credit scores influence insurance pricing, with poor credit typically resulting in higher premiums because of the perceived risk of missed payments.

Credit score Average monthly cost of full coverage Average monthly cost of liability-only Excellent $103 $75 Good $107 $77 Average $118 $86 Poor $154 $112

FAQs

What makes Alaska's car insurance requirements different from other states?

Alaska requires drivers to carry higher liability limits than most states, with minimum coverage of $50,000 per person and $100,000 per accident for bodily injury, plus $25,000 for property damage. However, if you live in remote areas where vehicle registration isn't required, car insurance becomes optional unless you have six or more violation points on your record within the past five years. This unusual provision reflects Alaska's vast, sparsely populated regions.

What should Alaska drivers know about DUI penalties and insurance impacts?

Alaska enforces some of the toughest DUI laws in the United States, with first-time offenders facing mandatory jail time of at least 72 hours and fines ranging from $1,500 to $25,000. Offender's insurance rates will increase by approximately 94% after a DUI conviction, and they'll be required to carry an SR-22 certificate proving financial responsibility. Multiple convictions can lead to permanent license revocation and even steeper insurance penalties.

How does Alaska's tort system affect my insurance coverage decisions?

As a tort state, Alaska holds at-fault drivers financially responsible for damages and injuries they cause in accidents. This means you can file a claim directly against the at-fault driver's insurance company rather than relying solely on your own coverage. Because Alaska has a notably high number of uninsured drivers compared to many other states, it's wise to include uninsured motorist coverage in your policy to protect yourself from accidents involving drivers without sufficient insurance.

Bottom line

These companies may offer Alaska's lowest rates, but that doesn't guarantee they're the most affordable option for your specific needs. Getting quotes from multiple insurance providers and comparing them based on both cost and service quality is the best approach to finding the right company for you.





Data throughout provided by Insurify.
U.S. Customs And Border Protection Agents Pursue Migrants Along Mexico-Arizona Border

The House of Representatives passed two bills targeting drug trafficking by South American cartels, including infamous Venezuelan gang Tren de Aragua (TdA), on Wednesday.

One bill, sponsored by Republican Mississippi Rep. Michael Guest, increases the capacity of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) personnel to collaborate with foreign governments in combating drug and human trafficking. The other piece of legislation, sponsored by Republican North Carolina Rep. Brad Knott, targets TdA and orders a comprehensive Department of Homeland Security (DHS) analysis of the cartels activity within 180 days and a strategic plan within one year of the analysis.

Both bills passed the House of Representatives by a voice vote on Wednesday afternoon.

Knott argued on Wednesday that his bill investigating TdA is necessary given the cartels success in cultivating networks in the U.S. and criminal threats posed by the group, and serves to dismantle and remove the cartel from the United States.

A US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) vehicle patrols along the US-Mexico border wall in Nogales, Arizona on September 16, 2025. As of 2022, approximately 11 million people lived in the United States illegally, according to government figures. And this figure may have risen since then to as many as 14 million, according to the Washington-based Migration Policy Institute.

Undocumented workers paid $97 billion in taxes in 2022 alone, according to Americans for Tax Fairness.

Figures from 2024 from the US Labor Department said nearly half of the foreign-born workforce in America is Latino. (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)

Guests bill increases the ability of CBP Air and Marine Operations (AMO) personnel to conduct joint operations with foreign countries, including the monitoring, locating, tracking, and deterrence of illegal drugs, victims of human trafficking, and terrorist threats to the United States, among other priorities.

Guest noted AMO interdiction statistics from fiscal year 2024, including 48,609 apprehensions of illegal aliens, as well as the seizure or disruption of 244,781 pounds of cocaine, 2235 pounds of fentanyl, 3061 pounds of methamphetamine, and the seizure of 1499 weapons. (RELATED: Trump Admin To Designate Socialist Dictators Drug Cartel As Terrorist Org)

A demonstrator holds an Ecuadorian flag next to a fire during an anti-government march in support of the national strike called by CONAIE (Ecuadors largest indigenous organization) in Quito on September 23, 2025. Ecuadors President Daniel Noboa on September 23, 2025, accused the Venezuelan drug gang Tren de Aragua of financing Indigenous fuel price protests that have rocked his country for days. Earlier this month, Noboa announced a cut in the fuel subsidy he said would save the state $1.1 billion. (Photo by Rodrigo BUENDIA / AFP) (Photo by RODRIGO BUENDIA/AFP via Getty Images)

I believe that this legislation, going hand in hand with the previous legislation that this body just took up and just passed, that it is an important step as we continue to remain vigilant, as we continue to do what the American people elected us to do, Guest said on the House floor Wednesday. They elected us to keep them safe. They elected us to make sure that the communities in which they live, that those communities are great places to live, and worship, and to raise a family.

President Donald Trumps administration has conducted at least 21 strikes on alleged narco-trafficking boats in the Caribbean since Sept. 2, killing 83 aboard the vessels. Congress has twice sought oversight of the operations, both times failing to win the required votes to limit military strikes in South America.

All content created by the Daily Caller News Foundation, an independent and nonpartisan newswire service, is available without charge to any legitimate news publisher that can provide a large audience. All republished articles must include our logo, our reporters byline and their DCNF affiliation. For any questions about our guidelines or partnering with us, please contact licensing@dailycallernewsfoundation.org.
A bill that would force the Justice Department to release all files related to its investigation into the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is on its way to President Donald Trumps desk after it was passed by both chambers of Congress.

The measure sailed through the Senate on Wednesday after being voted through the House by a near-unanimous vote a day earlier, following a months-long battle that saw survivors of the convicted sex offender's abuse, all House Democrats, and a handful of Republicans join forces to oppose the President and most of his party, who lobbied to keep the files hidden.

Facing defeat, Trump reversed his long-held position at the last minute on Sunday and urged his party to vote in favor of releasing the files, "because we have nothing to hide."

Read more: Senate Unanimously Passes Bill to Force Release of Epstein Files, Sending it to Trump

The bill, called the Epstein Files Transparency Act, requires the Justice Department to make all its files on its investigation into the convicted sex offender public within 30 days.

Trump hinted on Tuesday that he would sign the bill, despite his months-long opposition.

I don't care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, Trump posted on Truth Social. I just don't want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that we've had.

There appeared to be some confusion, however, between House Speaker Mike Johnson and Republican Senate Majority Leader John Thune, as the bill passed through both chambers .

Johnson appeared to suggest that the Senate would make significant amendments to the bill before sending it to President Trump, telling reporters he was confident after speaking with Senate Majority Leader Thune that they will take the time methodically to do what weve not been allowed to do in the House, to amend this discharge petition and to make sure that these protections are there.

U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) speaks with reporters following a press conference with survivors of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in front of the U.S. Capitol building on November 18, 2025 in Washington, D.C. Samuel CorumSipa USA via AP Images

That did not happen. The bill was passed by unanimous consentmeaning it would be transmitted to the Presidents desk as soon as it arrived in the Senate.

Johnson appeared flustered when questioned by reporters following the bills passage through the Senate, saying he was deeply disappointed it had not been amended.

It needed amendments. I just spoke to the President about that. Well see what happens, Johnson said, adding that both he and the President had concerns about the bill as it stands.

Asked whether that meant the President would veto the bill, Johnson replied: Im not saying that. I dont know.

With the bill heading to Trumps desk for a signature, some key backers of the measure to release the files are skeptical that the fight is over.

Republican Rep. Thomas Massie, of Kentucky, told CNN this week that he is skeptical of Trumps sudden change of heart.

Well accept their support, but were a little bit suspicious of this sudden turn of events, so well keep an eye on things, he said.

Trump has long faced questions over his relationship with Epstein. The president has denied any knowledge of Epsteins crimes and maintained that his ties to the convicted sex offender were limited to social interactions common in Palm Beach, Florida, where both men owned property in the 1990s.

But that relationship has come under renewed scrutiny in his second term after Epsteins accomplice and convicted sex trafficker Ghislaine Maxwell was moved to a minimum security jail following questioning by Trumps Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche. More recently, new emails released by House Democrats last week show Epstein alleging that Trump knew about the girls and that one of his alleged victims spent hours at his house with the President. Trump said he knew "nothing about that" in response to the claims made in the emails.

Trumps long-held opposition to releasing the files has left many wondering if he will try to prevent their release in some other way. Heres what could come next.

Trump signs the bill, and the files are released

The simplest scenario would be for the bill to arrive on Trumps desk, for him to sign it, and for most of the files to be released by the Justice Department within 30 days.

By now, the President may have some insight into what the files contain and be prepared to handle any potential fallout.

The release of the files would be a huge political victory for the survivors of Epsteins alleged trafficking ring, and for the small bipartisan group of Massie, Democrat Rep. Ro Khanna, and even Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, whose support as a MAGA stalwart earned her the loss of support from the President.

But even with Trump's signature, it may not be that straightforward.

The DOJ blocks the release of files

The Epstein Files Transparency Act, the name for the bill passed by Congress, also allows for the Justice Department to withhold any material that would jeopardize an active federal investigation or ongoing prosecution.

After months of insisting that the Epstein files were a hoax and his Department of Justice saying it had no evidence "that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties", Trump on Friday unexpectedly ordered a new federal investigation into his political opponents for their links to Epstein, in the midst of the fallout from the latest email leak from the late financiers estatea tranche in which Trump himself was named more than 1,000 times.

Several legal experts interviewed by TIME, including a former federal prosecutor and a DOJ deputy attorney general, have suggested the investigation may be a strategic effort to block the release of the filesallowing the Administration to cite ongoing investigations.

Read more: Trump May Have Found a Way To Block the Release of the Epstein Files, Experts Warn

My cynical view of this announcement is that it is a strategic effort to block the release of further documents in the Epstein case, Barbara McQuade, former U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan from 2010 to 2017, and a Michigan Law professor, told TIME last week. If there is a pending investigation, the DOJ can assert executive privilege and try to prevent any more documents from being released.

Stephen Saltzburg, a former deputy assistant attorney general in the Criminal Division of the DOJ and professor of law at George Washington University, said he believed Trump is desperate right now that he's been unable to shake Epstein.

I think by having Pam Bondi immediately choose this prosecutor to begin the investigation, that the possibility is there, he added in the interview last week.

The files are released, with heavy redactions

There is a middle ground between blocking the release of the files and releasing them all. Some have suggested that the Justice Department may try to heavily redact the files before any release.

When he first announced his about-turn on the issue, Trump said the House can have whatever they are legally entitled to, I DONT CARE! That phraselegally entitled tohas raised eyebrows.

On Wednesday, Attorney General Pam Bondi was asked whether the Justice Department would release all the files when Trump signed the law.

"We will continue to follow the law with maximum transparency while protecting victims," she said.

Asked why Trump had ordered a new Epstein investigation, Bondi appeared to stumble in her response: Information that has come... information. Theres new information, additional information, she said.

We will continue to follow the law to investigate any leads.

The bill also allows the Justice Department to redact details that identify victims, but prohibits it from withholding information over concerns of embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.

It is possible that Bondi takes a broad view of what constitutes an interference with an ongoing investigation or the protection of victims.

The Justice Department may decide to redact significant portions of the files before releasing them.

Bondi has previously argued that investigators cannot release any files that are related to open cases.

Speaking after the Senate approved the release of the files on Tuesday evening, Rep. Massie said he believed it would be difficult for Trump to do so, given the scope of the files.

Here's the thing, there are a thousand, and there are so many perpetrators, they can't open enough cases to block all of the Epstein files and to protect all of these perpetrators, he said.

Trump vetoes the bill

The most politically explosive scenario for what happens next is that Trump vetoes the bill, citing reasons similar to those Speaker Johnson gave for delaying and modifying it.

Johnson said there were serious deficiencies in the bill and had called for changes to protect victims and whistleblowers who may be named in the Justice Departments materials.

There are several problems with this approach, however. Vetoing the bill would likely cause considerable problems for the President, whose MAGA base has become fractured over the Epstein scandal. The victims of Epsteins abuse have publicly campaigned for years to have the materials released, and received significant public support.

The second is that the bill already includes provisions to include redactions to protect victims and to account for active investigations. Lastly, because the bill was passed by a supermajority in both Houses, Congress could simply override the Presidents veto after voting almost unanimously to release the files this week.

 With additional reporting by Rebecca Schneid

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Kristy Sparow - Getty Images



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The Crown creator Peter Morgan is leaving behind the British royal familyfor the time being. In a 2024 interview with Variety, Morgan shared his next project: an adaptation of Boys from Brazil.

The novel by Ira Levin, published in 1976, follows Nazi hunter Yakov Liebermann (loosely based on Simon Wiesenthal) and the search for Josef Mengele, the so-called Angel of Deatha Nazi doctor who performed experiments on concentration camp prisoners. In November 2025, the series was officially ordered at Netflix. Heres what we know so far:

Its based on Ira Levins novel.





The Boys from Brazil

$9.99 at amazon.com

The official logline is: Set across three decades from the immediate aftermath of WW2 through the political turbulence of the 1970s, The Boys from Brazil follows Holocaust survivor and Nazi hunter Yakov Liebermann, in his lifelong crusade to bring Nazi fugitives to justice, a crusade that has cost him nearly everything.When one of his young protegees undercover in Brazil learns of a shocking Nazi plan, Liebermann is in a race against time to expose an unimaginable truth: Doctor Johann-Friedrich Meinhardt, a sadistic Nazi scientist he believed long dead, is alive and orchestrating a diabolical project to spark the rise of a Fourth Reich.

Jeremy Strong will star as Yakov Liebermann.

Steve Granitz - Getty Images

The rest of the cast, announced so far, is as follows:

Gillian Anderson as Frieda Steiner

Daniel Bruhl as Von Harteneck

August Diehl as Doctor Johann-Friedrich Meinhardt

Lizzy Caplan as Hannah Liebermann

Shira Haas as Anna Koehler

Morgan wanted to write about masculinity.

"I really want to write some men again," he said in the Variety interview. "For me, The Crown, even though there are male characters in it, it feels like a female show. Ive always felt I was writing a feminine show  where the protagonist was female, and everything radiated out of that. I think I want to write a couple of things now which feel masculine. I feel like re-engaging with that."

Morgan continued, "But for now, Id like to do something where people arent polite, arent upper-class British, and they have guns. I want some guns. Yesterday, I met a couple of fellow showrunners who were talking about scenes where they were talking about disposing a body. And how did they deal with it, dramaturgically? I was so envious. I want that problem! I want a problem of how to deal with a body."

In The Boys From Brazil, he said there will be "a lot" of bodies. "Theres a really excessive amount of death," he said. "I'm making sure of that."

It is not the first The Boys from Brazil adaptation.

Silver Screen Collection - Getty Images

Silver Screen Collection - Getty Images

The book was adapted into a film in 1978, starring Gregory Peck as Mengele and Laurence Olivier as Liebermann.

Watch the original The Boys from Brazil

Morgan could return to The Crown.

In the same interview, however, Morgan shared he hasn't ruled out the possibility of a prequel to The Crown. "It would start further back, and then move forward in time," he said. But there's no movement on that project yet, he shared. "I am enjoying my time outside the Palace gates, and Im excited to do these other stories. But if I dont become too decrepit at some point, I might like to do that because the story is sensational."

He added, "One of the reasons why I hold on to the opportunity of still going back to The Crown is because of a complex female character at the heart of things, and I enjoyed that."

Production is set to begin in December 2025.

There will be five one-hour episodes.

Well update this as we learn more about The Boys from Brazil.

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A gavel rests on a block atop a judges bench in an empty courtroom. Photo: Shopify Partners / Burst

(The Center Square) - A lawsuit between California and neighborhood pharmacy company CVS has been settled for $18.2 million, state Attorney General Rob Bonta announced.

According to a news release issued Monday by Bontas office, Rhode Island-based CVS Pharmacy Inc. will pay the fine and restitution. The state and the U.S. Department of Justice alleged CVS submitted false pharmacy claims to Medicaid that resulted in millions of dollars being wrongly paid for CVS patients medications.

Pharmacies like CVS can submit reimbursement claims to Medicaid when they dispense prescription medications to patients, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office in the Eastern District of California.

Medicaid is known by Medi-Cal in California. Neither the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services nor the states Department of Health Care Services, which runs Medi-Cal, responded to The Center Square's requests for comment on Tuesday. Medi-Cal is funded by both federal and state money, according to the U.S. Attorneys Office.

Todays settlement holds CVS accountable for its fraudulent drug dispensing and billing practices, Bonta said. Pharmacies have an important responsibility to ensure all claims they submit to Medi-Cal are verified, true, accurate, and well documented. These practices ensure safe and cost-effective prescription drug use and are essential in ensuring Medi-Cal funds go to people who actually need them.

The lawsuit says CVS ran afoul of The Federal False Claims Act by falsely submitting claims for reimbursement to Medi-Cal for customers prescription drugs. CVS continues to deny the allegations, according to the settlement.

A total of $18,282,280.08 will be paid by CVS to the United States (more than $8.1 million) and California (more than $10 million). Of the $18 million-plus total, more than $10.7 million is meant to be restitution.

A spokesperson with CVS Pharmacy Inc. told The Center Square via email on Tuesday that the company was pleased to have the matter settled. She added that the company only agreed to the settlement to avoid time-consuming and expensive litigation in court.

The settlement resolves litigation involving CVS Pharmacys compliance with past Medi-Cal Rx policies imposed on pharmacies that were inconsistent with other payors in California and other states, wrote Amy Thibault, executive director of corporate communications, in the email. The Medi-Cal policy at issue placed pharmacies in the unusual position of needing to determine coverage eligibility for certain drugs. Medi-Cal Rx has since taken responsibility for this determination, in line with other payors in the industry.

At least one legislator thinks the settlement is a step in the right direction.

"Transparency and accountability are critically important in health care," said Assemblymember Dawn Addis, D-San Luis Obispo and chair of the Assembly Budget Subcommittee No. 1 on Health. "As the Health Budget-Subcommittee chair, I hear from countless people who want trust in our health care system restored. Today's settlement is a clear step forward."

The Center Square reached out to various legislators who sit on health committees in both chambers, but they were unavailable for comment Tuesday.

Proper billing of federal health care programs is essential and underpins the reliability of our health care system, said Susan Gillin, acting inspector general at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Oversight is key to ensuring that compliance failures are remedied.
An all-time world record high temperature set more than 110 years ago in Death Valley, California, is "implausible," according to a just-published study, and it could soon be officially removed from the record books.

What this latest study found: On July 10, 1913, a high of 134 degrees was recorded in Death Valley at Greenland Ranch. This is currently the official world record hottest air temperature near the surface. However, a recent study published in the Bulletin of the American Meteorological Society argued against that 134-degree high, concluding it was much hotter than what likely happened.

NWS-Las Vegas

Why 134 degrees was likely bogus: The study by University of Alabama-Huntsville researchers Roy Spencer and John Christy and long time Death Valley climatologist William Reid examined 102 years of July weather observations at different elevations near the valley to estimate what the surface temperature should have been at Greenland Ranch under similar conditions as July 1913.

By calculating these lapse rates, or changes in temperature with elevation, the study estimated the actual July 10, 1913, high was likely 12-16 degrees cooler than the reported 134-degree reading.

There didn't appear to be an extreme, large-scale weather setup at the time. And no Death Valley high anywhere near 134 degrees has been measured in the 112 years since that July 1913 heat wave.

AP Photo/Chris Carlson

Why the error: Standard temperature measurements are taken in an instrumented shelter known as a Stevenson screen painted white about 4 to 6 feet above the ground. This keeps the thermometer out of direct sunlight, but still allows air to flow through the sheltered instruments.

Such an instrumented shelter was installed at Greenland Ranch in 1911 by the U.S. Weather Bureau.

But Death Valley's extreme heat was already well known prior to the 1910s, especially among the ranch staff having to endure it. The ranch's foreman had previously measured even hotter temperatures from the veranda of the ranch house.

Unlike the standard Weather Bureau instrument shelter, that veranda thermometer may have been in the sun. Another possibility was "the double-roof over the adobe ranch house would exhaust very hot air out the sides" that could have been blown by the wind toward that veranda thermometer, Spencer told the American Meteorological Society blog.

So it's possible the ranch foreman entered the hotter temperatures from that veranda thermometer than those from the Weather Bureau's shelter to "give Death Valley the notoriety which he felt it deserved as hottest spot in the United States, if not the world," the study speculated.

This record was questioned for decades: This skepticism over the 134-degree high has been in place for over 100 years.

A 1915 study found the weather "was not unusually pronounced, and did not give record temperatures in any other portion of California" on that day. Another 1949 study also looked into how unlikely the 134-degree high was.

More recently in 2016, Reid and weather historian Christopher Burt took an in-depth look into the validity of this record.

"I'm not just 90% sure it was not valid. I'm closer to 100% sure it was not valid," Burt said in an interview with weather.com in July 2023.

"So why did Death Valley suddenly become hotter than every other place with its all-time record high temperatures when no other site in the region came even close to their all-time record? That's a red flag," Burt said.

AP Photo/Ty ONeil

What would make this official: World weather records are maintained by the World Meteorological Organization.

In this case, for this record to be officially erased, the National Climate Extremes Committee will have to examine the evidence and render a judgment in a final report to the WMO.

New world record: So, if this current record is "implausible," is Death Valley still the world record holder and if so, how hot is the most reliable temperature measured?

In that same July 1913 event, Death Valley also recorded a high of 131 degrees on July 13. Given that the 134-degree high is likely bogus, that high recorded three days later is also likely too hot.

On July 26, 1931, Kebili, Tunisia, recorded a high of 55 degrees Celsius, or 131 degrees Fahrenheit, which weather historian Christopher Burt found in an old French colonial report.

"However, ever since a reliable weather station was established in Kebili following World War II, no temperature above 118 degrees was reported through 2012," Burt told weather.com.

Burt also said he's concerned that Kebili could become the new world record by default if the Death Valley record is officially overturned.

In an October 2025 blog post, Reid proposed the most reliable Death Valley  and, thus, world  record high was 129.4 degrees on July 10, 2021.

Gabe Ginsberg/SOPA Images/LightRocket via Getty Images

That discounts a trio of 130-degree readings in recent years, on Aug. 16, 2020, and July 9, 2021, at the official Furnace Creek Visitor's Center and on July 11, 2024, at Saratoga Spring due to instrumentation concerns, according to Reid.

Reid also noted Death Valley hit 129 degrees five other times: July 7, 2024, June 30, 2013, July 6, 2007, July 19, 2005, and July 17, 1998.

Mitribah, Kuwait  129 degrees on July 21, 2016  appears to be the hottest reliable temperature outside of Death Valley.

Libyan world record was overturned 13 years ago: This wouldn't be the first time this century an old world heat record was debunked.

Spurred on by a three-year research effort by Burt, a 136-degree reading purportedly from El Azizia, Libya, on Sept. 13, 1922, was officially deemed invalid by the WMO 90 years later on Sept. 13, 2012.

That placed Death Valley's 134-degree high atop the world's record list.

Jonathan Erdman is a senior meteorologist at weather.com and has been covering national and international weather since 1996. Extreme and bizarre weather are his favorite topics. Reach out to him on Bluesky, X (formerly Twitter) and Facebook.
Washington  More than a dozen of Jeffrey Epstein's accusers stood alongside Democratic and GOP lawmakers and pressed Congress to look beyond politics, with the House set to vote Tuesday on a bill to release the government's remaining files related to the investigation of his crimes.

"This is one of the most horrific and disgusting corruption scandals in our country's history," said Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat who sponsored the bill. "Because survivors spoke up, because of their courage, the truth is finally going to come out."

At a news conference outside the Capitol, the accusers called for transparency and argued that releasing the files should transcend politics.

Haley Robson said, "It's time that we put the political agendas and party affiliations to the side." "This is not an issue of a few corrupt Democrats or a few corrupt Republicans, this is a case of institutional betrayal," said Annie Farmer. And Liz Stein said "the Epstein files are not about loyalty to any one political party. They're evidence of a crime."

"In a divided nation, this is one demand we all share," said Lisa Phillips.

Epstein abuse survivor Haley Robson holds up a photo of her younger self during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. / Credit: Heather Diehl / Getty Images

The House vote, which is expected Tuesday afternoon, comes after four Republicans joined all Democrats to sign a petition to force a vote on the issue, circumventing House GOP leadership. Although President Trump initially expressed opposition to the release of the files and lashed out against Republicans who advocated for the release of the files, he changed his tune Sunday when it was evident the bill would pass. He urged House Republicans to vote to release the Epstein files "because we have nothing to hide."

Another Epstein accuser, Jena-Lisa Jones, spoke of the emotionally "distressing" back-and-forth from the administration regarding the release of the files. She called on the president, whom she said she voted for, to "show some real leadership," adding that his "behavior on this issue has been a national embarrassment."

"I beg you, President Trump, please stop making this political," Jones said. "It is not about you, President Trump. You are our president. Please start acting like it."

Interest in the files has grown since July, when the Justice Department issued the findings of an internal review that found no "client list" or evidence that Epstein had blackmailed prominent figures. Since then, there's been widespread calls for greater transparency from the Trump administration.

Khanna outlined the widespread nature of the allegations from Epstein's accusers, saying, "There should be no buildings named after people in this Epstein class, there should be no scholarships named after them, they shouldn't be enjoying the perks of being affiliated with corporations or universities or writing op-eds or being lionized." He added that "many of the survivors will tell you, some of these people still are celebrated in our society."



The California Democrat said the accusers "are the ones who made today possible," adding that for decades, "we have not done enough about this issue."

Khanna also praised Rep. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican, whom he said have suffered "extraordinary political consequences" for their work on the issue.

Massie thanked the women, saying they're "giving everybody hope in this country."



"There are survivors of other sex crimes in this country wondering if they should come forward," Massie said. "These survivors have stepped forth, taking that same risk, worried that they will be defamed themselves  they have been defamed for stepping forward  but we're going to get justice for them. That's going to happen today in the People's House."

Greene praised the women for coming forward, saying, "These women have fought the most horrific fight that no woman should have to fight." She said they did so by fighting together "against the most powerful people in the world, even the president of the United States, in order to make this vote happen today."



The Georgia Republican noted she's been "called a traitor" by Mr. Trump in recent days in a public spat that seems to stem from the Epstein files.

"I've never owed him anything, but I fought for him for the policies and for America first  and he called me a traitor for standing with these women and refusing to take my name off the discharge petition," she said.



"Let me tell you what a traitor is: A traitor is an American that serves foreign countries, and themselves." Greene said.



"Today you are going to see probably a unanimous vote in the House to release the Epstein files," Greene said. "But the real fight will happen after that."



The "real test" will be whether the DOJ will release the files, or whether they will remain "tied up in investigations," Greene said. She and Massie have raised the possibility that if the Justice Department opens investigations into Epstein's relationships with prominent Democrats, as Mr. Trump has suggested, they could be used to block the files' release.

Massie said while "they can try to protect a few certain people or a few certain companies, those investigations will eventually end." He added, "They can't open enough investigations to cover up everything that's in these files."

But if the bill passes in the House, it would next head to the Senate for approval, where Republican leaders have not said whether they'll bring it up for a vote. Massie appealed to the upper chamber in his remarks, asking the Senate not to derail the effort.

"If you do anything that prevents any disclosure, you are not for the people and you are not part of this effort," Massie said. "Do not muck it up in the Senate."

What to know about Trump's changing stance on Epstein files

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NEW YORK  Ethan Slater says his "Wicked" costar Ariana Grande is "doing well" after a man jumped a barricade and charged at her during the movie's premiere in Singapore last week.

"One of the things that came out of what happened in Singapore was people seeing how much we as a cast take care of each other," Slater tells USA TODAY of the incident. "Cynthia (Erivo) and Michelle (Yeoh) really taking care of Ariana when that happened was a really beautiful thing."

Castmates huddled protectively around Grande when an Australian man, later identified as Johnson Wen, rushed toward the actress on the Nov. 13 red carpet. Wen pleaded guilty to being a public nuisance and was sentenced to nine days in jail, according to the BBC.

Slater, speaking with USA TODAY just after the New York premiere of "Wicked: For Good" (in theaters Nov. 21), says he wasn't privy to any changes in security as a result of the scary encounter, but noted that meeting fans is "really important to everyone" in the cast.

In traveling and fulfilling film obligations, Erivo lost her voice. Grande apologized for not stopping to talk as she escorted her "Defying Gravity" partner through the carpet at New York's Lincoln Center.

"Nobody has worked harder than those two women, let alone making the movie, but over the past few weeks and months and years, promoting it," Slater says of Erivo and Grande. "(Erivo) had to protect herself."

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Ethan Slater confirms he did take Boq's handkerchief from the "Wicked" set. He also tells USA TODAY that he grabbed a few other things, including a book from the library.

Slater promoting "Wicked" in the Big Apple is notable for a few reasons. The actor, 33, grew up in Washington, D.C., but went to school at Vassar College in Poughkeepsie, New York, about an hour and a half north of Manhattan. It was there where he fell in love with theater.

One of Slater's first auditions in New York was for Boq Woodsman, the role he currently plays, in "Wicked" on Broadway. He didn't land the gig.

"I kept on calling it Munchkintown instead of Munchkinland, and I think they were like, 'Yeah, he is not quite ready,' " Slater recalls of the casting call. "When I got the movie role, I went back through my emails to find that initial breakdown because I couldn't quite remember all the details. And I found this email from a friend of mine, Charlie, and he said, 'Hey, man, how'd it go?' And my response was, 'I don't think I got it, but I'm hopeful that I made some fans in the room.'

"I'm trying to tap back into the optimism of 2013 Ethan, auditioning for Boq and not quite getting it."

Ethan Slater details the 'beautiful' thing Jon M. Chu did with 'Wicked: For Good'

"Wicked" and its sequel "Wicked: For Good" are derived from the first and second acts of the hit Broadway musical. Director Jon M. Chu was able to tell fuller stories by splitting the musical into two films, Slater says.

"The beautiful thing that Jon was able to do with this movie is to really deepen all of the characters and see what do they do in the face of the consequences of their actions and the decisions that they've made," Slater says. "Boq and Nessa (Marissa Bode) get to sort of develop their relationship a little bit more. ... What I'm really excited about mostly is sort of Boq's transformation."

Beyonce, Cynthia Erivo and Robert Pattinson in the best celebrity photos from November Thank goodness: The wait for "Wicked: For Good" is nearly over. The press tour for the highly anticipated musical sequel is officially underway after kicking off with stars Cynthia Erivo and Jonathan Bailey stepping out on the red carpet in Brazil on Nov. 4. Ariana Grande missed the Brazil premiere due to flight issues but caught up with the group in London for the Nov. 10 red carpet.



"Wicked: For Good" sees Erivo and Grande reprise their Oscar-nominated roles of Elphaba and Glinda, respectively, in an adaptation of the second half of the Broadway musical. New cast members for the follow-up include Colman Domingo as the voice of the Cowardly Lion.



As the cast brings the magic of Oz around the world, scroll through for the best photos from the "Wicked: For Good" red carpets so far, starting with Erivo and Grande at Cineworld London Leicester Square on Nov. 10, 2025, in London.

Chu shot both "Wicked" films as one production, but the movies weren't filmed chronologically, to work with set locations and actor availability. That allowed Slater to think of Boq's role in the films as "one big thing" instead of two separate pieces.

"It's the story of somebody who is looking for love and community," Slater says of his character's arc, noting Boq thinks he's found love, but as it's taken away, he becomes isolated.

Boq is "left with Nessa, who he doesn't really recognize anymore, and he doesn't recognize himself anymore, " Slater adds. "What does he do with that? What do you turn that isolation and feeling of loneliness into? There's a productive way and then there's anger and hatred. So that was something that was the focus of the story for me."

Ethan Slater's next act takes him off-Broadway

Slater co-wrote and will star in the off-Broadway play "Marcel on the Train." The show's limited run kicks off Feb. 5 and runs through mid-March. And while there's no more "Wicked" movies in the works (for now), the actor doesn't feel like this is a goodbye to Emerald City or Munchkinland.

"I don't think it's often that you get to work on something of this caliber with people of this caliber who are as passionate, if not more so," he says. "It's funny because we keep on talking about this being the end or closing a chapter. But it really feels like it's just beginning," as people "start to see it and be brought into this world that we've known has existed for so long."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Wicked' star Ethan Slater addresses Ariana Grande's carpet scare
General view of the Eiffel Tower and the Paris skyline at sunset from the Montparnasse Tower in Paris, France, March 19, 2025. REUTERS/Abdul Saboor

PARIS (Reuters) -A trade deal negotiated between the European Union and the South American trade bloc Mercosur is still not acceptable for France in its current form, a French government spokesperson said on Wednesday.

The European Union and Mercosur - comprising Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay and Uruguay - agreed the EU's largest ever trade accord last December, some 25 years after negotiations were launched.

France has been a vocal opponent of the deal, which still needs to be approved by the European Parliament and by a qualified majority among EU countries, meaning 15 of 27 members representing 65% of the EU population.

"(The deal) is still not acceptable. There is no ambiguity about France's position, as we speak," Maud Bregeon told reporters after the weekly cabinet meeting chaired by President Emmanuel Macron.

France expects the European Commission to present measures on so-called mirror clauses for agricultural imports "at the earliest opportunity," she said.

France wants guarantees there will be "safeguard" mechanisms that would allow the blocking of imports when a European industry is "destabilized" and that controls are set up to ensure Mercosur products meet EU norms, Bregeon added.

French President Emmanuel Macron last month said the Commission had moved in the right direction though it was not enough.

French Agriculture Minister Annie Genevard has said that France had not secured a blocking minority against the deal with other member states.

The Commission and proponents such as Germany and Spain say the Mercosur deal offers a way to offset the loss of trade due to tariffs imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump and to reduce reliance on China.

France, the EU's largest beef producer and other farming heavyweights such as Poland, have expressed their opposition as they fear competition from Argentina and Brazil's productive farmers.

(Reporting by Michel Rose, writing by Inti Landauro, editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Small businesses are feeling the strain of rising costs. - Maskot/Getty Images

Surging import costs. Mounting payroll and healthcare expenses. A shortage of affordable loans. And a stressed-out workforce. Small businesses are facing mounting pressure from Americas affordability crisis.

Doug Scheffel, owner of a family-run ETM Manufacturing in Massachusetts, laid off about a quarter of his employees in April as the Trump administrations haphazard tariff rollout dented demand for the machine parts and sheet metal his company sells.

Everyone is hunkering down and building up cash. Its never been this bad, Scheffel told CNN in a phone interview. Its very uncertain and impossible to plan in this environment.

Small businesses are the backbone of the US economy, accounting for the vast majority of total businesses in the nation, nearly half of all employees and the bulk of the job growth.

Doug Scheffel, who co-owns a manufacturer in Massachusetts, said he recently laid off a quarter of his workforce due to uncertainty caused by tariff hikes. - Courtesy Sajawi Corporation

Like other small businesses, ETM Manufacturing cant take advantage of growth opportunities because financing is so expensive. The average rate on a new urban small business term loan was over 7% at the end of last year, according to the Kansas City Fed, but many small businesses face rates well north of 10%.

Its infuriating, Scheffel said.

High prices at the grocery store and elsewhere have left some of ETMs employees preoccupied with their own finances.

Most of our employees are distracted. Theyre worried about putting food on the table and buying shoes for their kid, Scheffel said. Bad stuff happens when theyre not totally focused.

Scheffels employees are hardly alone. About one in four US households are living paycheck to paycheck, meaning they are spending over 95% of their income on necessities like housing and groceries, according to estimates from Bank of America.

The mood among mom-and-pop shops on Main Street is mixed. While small business owners tell CNN they are hopeful about the future and excited about how artificial intelligence can help them, some are concerned about the headaches incurred by the ever-changing trade war and high costs.

Bryan Pate, CEO of San Diego-based PT Motion Works, an exercise equipment company that sells elliptical bikes, GIBBON SlackBoards and Indo Board balance boards, told CNN that his business is struggling to keep up with rapidly rising healthcare costs.

Bryan Pate, who runs an exercise equipment company, said health insurance is prohibitively expensive and acts as a competitive disadvantage when it comes to attracting workers. - Courtesy ElliptiGO, Inc.

Over the past two decades, the average cost of single coverage health insurance has surged by 120% for companies with fewer than 50 employees, according to the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB), a nonprofit that advocates for small businesses.

Its unbelievable how much healthcare has gone up, Pate said, noting this is a big disadvantage small businesses have against large corporations. Its an unfair barrier to hiring.

So much anxiety

Those healthcare and payroll expenses add to the pressure from the historic tariff hikes under President Donald Trump.

We just dont know what the guy is gonna do. It creates so much anxiety and time-wasting, Pate said of Trumps evolving tariff policies.

Trump has raised tariffs on US imports to an average rate of 16.8%, the highest since 1935, according to estimates released by The Budget Lab at Yale on Monday.

Pate said his businesses have been hammered by tariffs  including the 20% levy on Taiwan, where its bikes are manufactured.

Shipping containers are seen at the Port of Keelung, Taiwan, on August 7, 2025. - I-Hwa Cheng/AFP/Getty Images

Ironically, the tariffs are wiping out some US manufacturing jobs.

Pate said his company recently ended contracts with seven assembly workers based in San Diego and now employs workers in Mexico instead. And Pate plans to raise prices on bikes to offset the cost of tariffs but worries that will erode demand.

Its been economically painful, and long-term, if tariffs stay where they are, its just not going to work, he said.

Troy Rackley, CEO at The Next Level of Performance, a Sarasota, Florida-based water treatment technology company, told CNN on the sidelines of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Summit in Washington he has had to raise prices on some of his products due to US tariffs on imports from Australia and China.

Rackley dismissed the argument that exporting countries are paying US tariffs and hopes the Supreme Court rules against the Trump administrations use of emergency powers to justify its global tariffs.

China, Mexico and Canada dont pay. Im the one thats paying for it, Rackley said. I pay taxes on my income, and now I have to pay additional taxes on what I bring in.

High borrowing costs

Khari Parker, a graduate of the Goldman Sachs small business program and co-founder of Connies Chicken and Waffles in Baltimore, isnt facing any tariff trouble, but hes struggling to find affordable capital.

Khari Parker (right), co-founder of Connies Chicken and Waffles with his brother Shawn, said the high cost of financing has been a major challenge. - Courtesy Will Kirk/Johns Hopkins University

Weve being hit with very, very high rates of 20% to 30%, Parker said.

The Trump administration has worked to support small businesses by providing capital through the Small Business Administration (SBA).

Since Trump took office, the SBA estimates it has approved more than 58,000 small business loans worth over $32 billion. For fiscal 2025, which closed at the end of September, the SBA said it guaranteed a record-setting $44.8 billion of small business loans.

Small business optimism increased sharply after Trump took office before retreating after Trumps tariff plans spooked financial markets, according to the NFIB. Optimism later recovered and is currently slightly above its 52-year average.

Immigration crackdown shrinks labor pool

One recurring struggle for small businesses like Parkers: attracting talent.

Its very hard to find workers. We cant always offer the same competitive benefits or pay that larger businesses can, Parker said.

For some companies in construction, those challenges have been amplified by the immigration crackdown.

People work at a construction site facing shortages of migrant workers due to the pace of immigration-related raids in the region, near Mobile, Alabama, on July 14, 2025. - Megan Smith/Reuters

A lot of the workforce is nervous from all the stuff going on with immigration, said Antonio McMillion, president of Maryland-based developer MFP Management & Construction.

McMillion said his company has been forced to hire more expensive workers, raising their labor costs on some projects by up to 40%.

Hopefully we can pass on the price to the client, but that could also mean you dont get the job, he said.

Pate, the CEO of PT Motion Works, is very frustrated by tariffs but remains optimistic about the future because of his employees resilience in the face of uncertainty.

It could be very depressing and demoralizing, he said, but no one is throwing in the towel.

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Allen & Co Brings Together Media And Tech Titans In Sun Valley (Photo by Kevin Dietsch/Getty Images)

Former Clinton-era Treasury Secretary Larry Summers resigned from the OpenAI board on Wednesday after emails showed his association with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Summers resignation followed his decision to back away from public commitments in response to House Democrats releasing over 20,000 emails from Epsteins estate, some of which indicated that Summers regularly communicated with the sex offender from 2013 to 2019. His most recent correspondence was from the day before Epsteins arrest in 2019, according to NBC News.

In line with my announcement to step away from my public commitments, I have also decided to resign from the board of OpenAI, Summers said in a statement. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress.

Summers joined the OpenAI board in November 2023. The company said it respected Summers decision and were grateful for his contributions.

We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board, the company said, according to NBC News.

WASHINGTON, DC  NOVEMBER 18: U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) speaks during a news conference with lawmakers and Jeffrey Epstein abuse survivors on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. (Photo by Heather Diehl/Getty Images)

The email exchanges showed Summers appearing to seek romantic advice from Epstein about a woman he was pursuing at Harvard University, where he previously served as president. When the emails were sent, Epstein had already served a prison sentence for solicitation of prostitution of a minor. (RELATED: Trumps Sudden Flip On Epstein Vote, Explained)

President Donald Trump announced on Truth Social that he directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Epsteins involvement with Summers, former President Bill Clinton, J.P. Morgan and others who were named in the documents. In response, Bondi assigned U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of New York Jay Clayton to lead the investigation.

Following the release of the emails, Summers said on Monday that he is deeply ashamed of his actions and that he takes full responsibility for continuing to communicate with Epstein.

I am deeply ashamed of my actions and recognize the pain they have caused. I take full responsibility for my misguided decision to continue communicating with Mr. Epstein, Summers said.

Harvard University is reinvestigating Summers association with Epstein following the release of the emails, according to The Washington Post. An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex crimes conviction. Summers teaches at Harvard and holds the title of Charles W. Eliot University Professor, the highest academic honor at the university.

The House passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act on Tuesday in a 427-1 vote, with Republican Louisiana Rep. Clay Higgins being the sole dissenter. President Donald Trump called on Republicans to release the files in a Monday Truth Social post, stating that they have nothing to hide.

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Multiple U.S. one-dollar bills featuring President George Washington. Photo: Emilee Calametti / The Center Square

(The Center Square) - A bill designed to protect the United States' court system from foreign influence is too broad, according to Trent England, director of the nonprofit Save Our States.

In an exclusive letter obtained by The Center Square, England calls on House Judiciary Committee Chairman Jim Jordan, R-Ohio, to more carefully analyze the Protecting Our Courts from Foreign Manipulation Act of 2025.

The bill is designed to "increase transparency and oversight of third-party funding by foreign persons, to prohibit third-party funding by foreign states and sovereign wealth funds, and for other purposes."

However, England said the bill's language imposes broad disclosure rules on individuals conducting lawful activity in the court system.

"The broad disclosure mandates proposed by this bill would act as a catch-all dragnet for well-intended individuals abroad supporting important causes here in the United States," England wrote in the letter to Jordan, obtained exclusively by The Center Square.

England said financial support from abroad has been critical for conservatives who take on large companies and their "harmful" policies. He pointed to financial institutions including Bank of America and JP Morgan Chase as examples for targeting individuals with conservative political views.

In August, President Donald Trump signed an executive order mandating an investigation into whether banks have discriminated against conservatives. The order said banks targeted individuals who made certain purchases surrounding the events of Jan. 6, 2021.

"Bank regulators have used supervisory scrutiny and other influence over regulated banks to direct or otherwise encourage politicized or unlawful debanking activities," the executive order reads.

JP Morgan Chase revealed the U.S. government is investigating the major bank over allegations of "debanking" customers with conservative political ties.

In a quarterly filing, JP Morgan said it is "responding to requests from government authorities and other external parties regarding, among other things, the firms policies and processes and the provision of services to customers and potential customers."

England said the proposed legislation would "further tilt the scales" toward corporations that promote DEI and environmental policies.

"Those supporting the fight to hold woke capitalism to account have a right to maintain their privacy," England said.

England called for a more narrowly tailored measure that targets foreign adversary nations including China instead of the broad measures to restrict all foreign investment.

He pointed to laws in Kansas and Louisiana that prohibit funders from foreign countries of concern influencing court litigation.

In Louisiana, individuals from China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, Russia and Venezuela must disclose their ties to the state's attorney general. Funders from these areas are prohibited from influencing litigation by making payments.

"A scalpel is needed, not a sledgehammer. It should be self-evident that investors hailing from Ireland and Iran do not pose equivalent risks," England said.
Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy meets with U.S. Special Envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in Kyiv, Ukraine July 14, 2025. Ukrainian Presidential Press Service/Handout via REUTERS

By Gram Slattery and Humeyra Pamuk

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump's Special Envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, has told associates he plans to leave the administration in January, four sources told Reuters, a departure that would mean the loss of a key advocate for Ukraine in the Trump administration.

Special presidential envoy is a temporary designation, and such envoys in theory must be confirmed by the Senate to stay in their positions past 360 days. Kellogg has indicated that January would be a natural departure point, given existing legislation, said the sources, who requested anonymity to discuss private conversations.

His departure will be unwelcome news in Kyiv. The retired lieutenant general was widely viewed by European diplomats, Ukrainians included, as a sympathetic ear in an administration that has at times leaned toward Moscow's view on the origins of the war in Ukraine.

News of the move comes as Ukraine confronts new headwinds on the diplomatic front.

Two sources told Reuters on Wednesday that the U.S. signaled to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy that Ukraine must accept a U.S.-drafted framework to end the war with Russia that proposes Kyiv giving up territory and some weapons. The proposals, which include cutting the size of Ukraine's armed forces, would represent a major setback for Kyiv.

That framework proposal was spearheaded by U.S. Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff, and it does not appear that Kellogg had a role in its drafting.

KELLOGG CLASHED AT TIMES WITH WITKOFF

Kellogg has more forcefully denounced Russian attacks on Ukrainian civilian infrastructure than other Trump administration officials. He at times clashed with Witkoff, who has repeated some of Russian President Vladimir Putin's talking points and has long advocated a lopsided territorial swap as part of a long-term peace deal.

Among Kellogg's successes was facilitating the release of dozens of hostages held by Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in return for limited sanctions relief.

The White House and the State Department did not respond to requests for comment.

One person with knowledge of Kellogg's decision said he never intended to stay in the administration for long.

TRUMP'S APPROACH TO UKRAINE HAS VARIED

While Trump has been laser-focused on ending the war in Ukraine, his approach to how to do so has varied dramatically.

In March, he briefly cut off some intelligence sharing with Ukraine, before quickly resuming it. In recent months, he has actually boosted some intelligence sharing with Kyiv.

And while Trump set up a new program through which European allies buy U.S. weapons on Kyiv's behalf, he largely discontinued U.S. military assistance programs that had been set up by former President Joe Biden.

Trump came into office pushing for an immediate ceasefire, but abandoned that demand after meeting Putin in Alaska in August. In October, he again embraced the idea of a ceasefire along the front lines after meeting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy in Washington.

The latest Witkoff-led proposal - to the extent it is embraced by other factions of the Trump administration - would seem to represent another shift towards accommodating Russia.

Separately, a U.S. delegation led by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is currently in Kyiv on a "fact-finding mission," the U.S. embassy in Kyiv said. Army Chief of Staff General Randy George is also in the delegation and he and Driscoll will meet Zelenskiy on Thursday, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters.

Kellogg has maintained a solid relationship with Trump, the sources said. But he was notably absent from the October encounter with Zelenskiy, which some allies attributed to administration infighting.

It was not immediately clear who - if anyone - would replace Kellogg. The United States has yet to appoint a Senate-confirmed ambassador for Ukraine. Career diplomat Julie Fisher was appointed in May as the charge d'affaires at the U.S. mission in Kyiv.

(Reporting by Gram Slattery and Humeyra Pamuk; Editing by Don Durfee and Rod Nickel)
A judge in a robe holds a gavel over a desk in a courtroom. Photo: Shopify Partners / Burst

(The Center Square)  A federal judge has upheld a New York state law that restricts immigration arrests at state and local courthouses, dismissing a legal challenge by the Trump administration.

The ruling by U.S. District Court Judge Mae D-Agostino, an Obama appointee, rejected the administrations claims that New Yorks Protect our Courts Act in 2020 create unconstitutional barriers to immigration enforcement and are preempted by federal law. D'Agostino said overturning the city's law would violate the 10th Amendment by allowing the White House to "commandeer New York's resources to aid in federal immigration efforts."

"Compelling New York to allow federal immigration authorities to reap the benefits of the work of state employees is no different than permitting the federal government to commandeer state officials directly in furtherance of federal objectives," she wrote into the 41-page ruling.

The lawsuit, filed by the U.S. Department of Justice in June, claimed the New York law, which took effect in 2020 during President Donald Trump's first term, violates a constitutional provision called the "supremacy clause" that makes federal law supersede conflicting state laws.

"Through these enactments, New York obstructs federal law enforcement and facilitates the evasion of federal law by dangerous criminals, notwithstanding federal agents statutory mandate to detain and remove illegal aliens," DOJ lawyers wrote in the 17-page complaint.

The federal agency said arrests in courthouses reduce "flight and safety risks to the public, law enforcement officers, and targets themselves" because individuals are "usually screened for weapons or other contraband before entering a courthouses."

Immigration enforcement actions in courthouses have been a flashpoint in pushback to Trump's administration enforcing the law. To enter America from another country, if not a U.S. citizen, a visa or some other travel authorization is required to be presented at a port of entry.

Advocates, court officials and even some judges have been accused of resisting attempts by ICE to apprehend suspects who show up for court hearings.

The Justice Department filed a federal lawsuit against New York City over its "sanctuary" policies that restrict cooperation with federal immigration crackdowns, accusing the city of shielding wanted criminals from deportation. The case remains pending.

New York City has been a flashpoint in the national immigration debate with more than 230,000 migrants arriving in the city between 2021 and 2022 after a surge of immigration on the U.S.-Mexico border. The city has spent about $8 billion on housing, food and other costs for migrants, according to the Adams administration. ICE operations in the city have arrested nearly 29,000 undocumented immigrants, according to the agency's website.

Trump's border czar Tom Homan has pledged to deploy National Guard troops to New York City to help enforce immigration crackdowns.
The BBC joined coastguards on the front line of Europe's uneasy standoff with Russia's so-called "shadow fleet" [Getty Images]

Out on the western Baltic, a coastguard officer radios a nearby, sanctioned oil tanker.

"Swedish Coastguard calling Do you consent to answer a few questions for us? Over."

Through heavy static, barely audible answers crackle over from a crew member, who gradually lists the ship's insurance details, flag state and last port of call  Suez, Egypt.

"I think this ship will go up to Russia and get oil," says Swedish investigator, Jonatan Tholin.

This is the front line of Europe's uneasy standoff with Russia's so-called "shadow fleet"; a term that commonly refers to hundreds of tankers used to bypass a price cap on Russian oil exports.

After the Kremlin launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, many Western countries imposed sanctions on Russian energy, which Moscow is accused of dodging by shipping oil on aged tankers often with obscure ownership or insurance.

European coastguards and navies are regularly coming in contact with vessels in Russia's shadow fleet which they suspect are transporting oil [BBC]

Some "shadow" ships are even suspected of undersea sabotage, illicit drone launches or "spoofing" their location data.

Out on the waves, where freedom of navigation is a golden rule, the ability and appetite of coastal countries to intervene is limited, even though the risk they face is escalating.

As the BBC has learned, a growing network of "shadow" ships are sailing without a valid national flag, which can render vessels stateless and without proper insurance.

That is a troubling trend, given many are practically "floating rust buckets", says senior maritime intelligence analyst at Windward AI, Michelle Wiese Bockmann. If there is an accident, like a billion-dollar oil spill, "good luck with trying to find somebody responsible to pick up any cost".

Driven by record sanctions and tighter enforcement, the number of falsely flagged ships globally has more than doubled this year to over 450, most of them tankers, according to the International Maritime Organization (IMO) database.

The BBC has been tracking one ship that appears to have sailed without a valid flag.

The head of Estonia's navy, Commodore Ivo Vark, says that vessels travel back and forth, past Estonia, to major Russian oil terminals [BBC]

The head of Estonia's navy, Commodore Ivo Vark, says they have seen dozens of such passing vessels this year whereas they used to see just one or two.

The rise is alarming, he tells me, as we talk in his office overlooking the Gulf of Finland, a narrow gateway to the major Russian oil terminals of Ust-Luga and Primorsk.

What's more, he suggests, it's brazen: "There's no secret made about it."

We spot the tanker Unity on the MarineTraffic app, the day we board an Estonian (British-built) Minehunter that is also used in Nato's Baltic Sentry patrols to protect critical infrastructure.

Journeying east, Unity is over 100 miles away but sailing in our direction.

The BBC has investigated its history and it offers an illuminating insight into the enigmatic life of a shadow ship.

Tracking data shows that Unity has passed through the English Channel four times in the last twelve months, including journeys between Russian ports and India; a key oil customer that has not signed up to the price cap.

Originally known as Ocean Explorer, the tanker was built in 2009 and flew the flag of Singapore for more than a decade.

Back in 2019, it was named in a UN report for alleged involvement in a ship-to-ship transfer with a vessel that had been sanctioned for its role in transporting fuel to North Korea - which is among other countries also charged with utilising elusive shadow ships.

By late 2021, the vessel  which that year operated under the name Ocean Vela  took the flag of the Marshall Islands but was struck from that list in 2024, a registry spokesperson told us, because the ship's then-operator and beneficial owning company had been sanctioned by the UK.

The tanker appears to have had three further names since 2021 (Beks Swan, March and Unity) and three further flags (Panama, Russia and Gambia) but always retains a unique IMO number.

In August, ship broadcasting data shows Unity claimed the flag of Lesotho which was designated as "false". Lesotho is a small, landlocked African enclave kingdom that, according to the IMO, does not have an official registry.

Over the past year, Unity has made several voyages to and from Russian oil ports [BBC]

The BBC has tried to contact Unity's listed owner, a Dubai-registered company called FMTC Ship Charter LLC, but our emails and our calls went unanswered.

The beneficial owners of 60% of shadow fleet vessels remain essentially unknown, according to maritime intelligence company Windward AI.

Opaque ownership structures  and frequent name or flag changes  have become a signature trait of the shadow fleet as a means of avoiding detection.

Purged from reputable registries and having circled the drain of poor-quality alternatives, some ships are now at a point "where they just don't even bother at all", says Michelle Wiese Bockmann.

Unity's most recent journey saw it sail through the North Sea in late October before entering the Baltic and passing countries including Sweden and Estonia - the point at which we spotted it.

By 6 November, it was anchored outside the Russian port of Ust-Luga where it remains at the time of publication.

The tanker was added to the UK and EU's ever-growing list of sanctioned vessels earlier this year but, like so many others, continues to do business despite other difficulties.

Back in January, it reportedly sheltered in the English Channel after suffering a mechanical failure during a storm. The following August it was reportedly detained at a Russian port due to technical issues and unpaid wages.

At the time of publication the vessel was anchored just outside the major Russian oil port, Ust-Luga [Planet Labs]

Unity is just one of hundreds of vessels subject to UK and EU service and port bans as both London and Brussels try to increase pressure on the Kremlin.

Nevertheless, Russian revenues from crude and oil product sales were $13.1bn (9.95bn) in October alone, according to the Paris-based International Energy Agency (IEA) - although this was down by $2.3bn when compared with the same month a year ago.

Analysis by the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air finds that "shadow" tankers, either sanctioned or suspected, account for 62% of shipped Russian crude oil exports, while China and India are by far the biggest customers for crude, followed by Turkey and the European Union itself.

While politicians talk of toughening action, navy and coastguard officers point out that a country's power to act fades the further you go out to sea.

The right of innocent passage remains a cornerstone of maritime law, but stateless vessels technically are not entitled to it.

Countries such as France, Finland and Estonia have detained ships, and they can do so where a crime is suspected, however such drastic controls remain a relatively rare event.

"There's a complexity associated with it," argues Commodore Ivo Vark. "With the Russian presence next to our borders, the risk of escalation is too high to do it on a regular basis."

The Estonians speak from experience.

When they attempted to intercept a flagless tanker in May, Russia briefly deployed a fighter jet and has "constantly" had about two naval vessels in the Gulf of Finland since, says Commodore Vark.

The fear of escalation sits alongside broader concerns of commercial retaliation if a more aggressive approach were to be taken.

"Every day in the Baltic, there's suspicious activity," a Nato official told the BBC, speaking on the condition of anonymity. Nevertheless, the official added, "we don't want to be cowboys and jumping on ships. The act of monitoring ships is a deterrent in itself".

"Freedom of navigation is the lifeblood of all of our economies."

Back on the bridge of the Swedish coastguard ship, the radio call with the sanctioned tanker has wrapped up.

"Thank you for your co-operation," says the officer as the vessel carries on towards Russia.

The exchange lasted just over five minutes.

"You need to see it in a larger perspective," says investigator Jonatan Tholin when I suggest these measures appear less than muscular: "This information can be used in our maritime surveillance."

But as Europe steps up checks and watches the waves, Windward's Michelle Wiese Bockmann spies something else: "You can literally see the international rules-based order crumbling through the sanctions-circumventing tactics of these vessels."

There is a lot at stake for the environment and on security, she says, and meanwhile "the dark fleet is getting darker".

The BBC approached Russia's embassy in London for comment. In response, a spokesman said that the West's "anti-Russian sanctions" were "illegitimate" and "undermine established principles of global commerce".

"Labelling ships used to export Russian oil as 'shadow fleet' is discriminatory and misleading," the embassy said, and instances of invalid flags were typically down to "easily resolved" issues such as administrative delays.

It was sanctioning countries, the spokesperson said, that had "heightened" the risks by "forcing shipowners and operators to navigate an increasingly fragmented and restrictive regulatory landscape".

Additional reporting by Adrienne Murray, Michael Steininger and Ali Zaidi
President Donald Trump in the Oval Office, Sept. 15, 2025. Photo: Molly Riley / Official White House Photo via Flickr / United States Government Work

(The Center Square)  A Tennessee judge has issued a temporary injunction barring Gov. Bill Lee, from taking further action in Memphis where state National Guard troops have been deployed since Oct. 10 as part of President Donald Trumps crime crackdown.

Shelby County Mayor Lee Harris along with other city and state elected officials sued the governor on Nov. 3 in Davidson County Chancery Court seeking a restraining order under Tennessee law against Lee on the deployment.

Chancery Court Judge Patricia Moskal on Monday granted the temporary injunction.

The power committed to the governor as commander-in-chief of the Army and militia is not unfettered, the judge wrote. The governor may only call the militia into service in case of rebellion or invasion and only with the General Assemblys declaration that the public safety requires it.

In court documents, the governors office said it deployed the National Guard because of unbridled criminal activity that threatens public safety.

The Shelby County mayor, however, told the court that the deployment is overburdening the court system and jail, interfering with his ability to perform his duties and creating public fear and insecurity.

On Sept. 15, Lee met with Trump at the White House for the signing of a presidential memorandum establishing the Memphis Safe Task Force, a joint federal-state crime crackdown.

The Center Square was unsuccessful prior to publication getting comment from Lee or the attorney general's office.

Memphis is a remarkable community with great cultural significance that includes top global business and strong faith leaders, and Im grateful for the opportunity to move this city forward, Lee said in a release. Weve made significant investments to address crime throughout my seven years in office, and thanks to President Trumps leadership, the Memphis Safe Task Force will ensure we have every resource at our disposal to create significant change.

In his release, Lee said the president requested National Guard deployment in Memphis.

However, Moskal in her ruling Monday questions that, citing the absence of any clear documentary record of any request for National Guard deployment by Trump.
The move in the Republic of Ireland comes after the sale and supply of single use vapes in Northern Ireland was banned back in April 2025 [Getty Images]

The Irish government has approved plans to ban the sale of disposable vapes and introduce new restrictions on other nicotine products.

The move in the Republic of Ireland comes after the sale and supply of single-use vapes in Northern Ireland was banned back in April 2025.

Anyone found guilty of stocking or supplying single-use vapes in Northern Ireland could face a maximum penalty of up to two years in prison and a fine of up to 5,000.

In the Republic of Ireland, Health Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill received Irish cabinet approval to publish the Public Health (Single Use Vapes) Bill 2025, which would make it illegal for retailers to sell single-use e-cigarettes in the country.

What is a disposable vape?

They are single use

They are already filled and charged

They are activated by inhaling

The battery only lasts a short while, sometimes only a day, so they are designed to be discarded

They are often small and fit in a pocket

They do not have a replaceable coil and cannot be recharged or refilled

The Irish government also agreed to develop legislation preventing the sale of other nicotine products, such as nicotine pouches, to people under the age of 18.

Advertising for such products will be banned in all retail outlets, and mixed retailers will no longer be allowed to display them openly.

The measures will be incorporated into the Public Health (Tobacco Products and Nicotine Inhaling Products) (Amendment) Bill, which will regulate the packaging, appearance, flavours and display of nicotine-inhaling products.

Officials said the framework is intended to apply to future nicotine products, as well as those currently on the market.

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill says the move will help better protect young people from the harms of nicotine products [Getty]

Carroll MacNeill said the changes would help protect young people from "developing a nicotine addiction".

"My priority is the protection of our children," she said.

"The measures approved today will reduce the attractiveness and availability of current and future nicotine containing products for our young people.

"Taken together, these laws form a suite of measures to shield our children from the promotion and sale of these products and to allow them to grow up free from the risk of developing a nicotine addiction."

Jennifer Murnane O'Connor, Minister of State at the Department of Health, said the proposals marked "a big step forward" in efforts to reduce nicotine use among young people.

"This is an ever-changing environment, and it is vital that we are ahead of the market when it comes to protecting our young people and safeguarding the health of future generations."

Both ministers said they would work to implement the measures as quickly as possible.
PowerfulJRE/YouTube Joe Rogan; Theo Von

NEED TO KNOW

Joe Rogan and his podcast guest Theo Von criticized the Department of Homeland Security for using a clip of Von to promote their deportation efforts

Rogan suggested Von could have sued DHS  which allegedly used the clip without his permission  if they had been a private company

While he endorsed President Donald Trump in 2024, Rogan has been vocal in his criticism of how the Trump administration is handing the deportation of immigrants

Joe Rogan and one of his latest guests, Theo Von, tore into the Department of Homeland Security this week for using a video of Von to boast about its mass deportation accomplishments.

On the Tuesday, Nov. 18, episode of The Joe Rogan Experience, Rogan criticized ICE for targeting U.S. citizens in their ongoing raids, telling Von, "You got ICE raids where they're taking people who are American citizens and they're scaring the s--- out of everybody," before his guest mentioned a video released by DHS earlier this year, which used a clip of Von allegedly without asking for his consent.

"It was crazy," Rogan said. "They didn't even ask you."

"Well, it was really scary for me," said Von, who has a popular podcast of his own, This Past Weekend. He noted that the video was released around the time Charlie Kirk was assassinated, making him fear for his own safety.



Rogan noted that Von had been "joking around" in the original clip used by DHS, which had been filmed over a year prior. In the video, which has since been removed, Von said, Heard you got deported, dude, bye. The clip then showed footage of what appeared to be deportations paired with stats about the number of people being sent out of the country, according to USA Today.

"I just can't believe they did that with you, like you were endorsing that," Rogan said on Tuesday, before asking, "Who greenlit that?"

"If a company did that you could sue them," he said. "Like, if ICE was a private company and that was the people the United States hired to get rid of illegal immigrants and they used you, you could sue them. But the government can just put that up there?"

Von said he hired an attorney to help get the video removed, which took about 48 hours. He estimated that it had accumulated 30 million views by then.



When Rogan first saw the video, he recalled thinking, "Oh my god, what the f--- are they doing?"

"It's like, that's not how you envision the government," he said, and Von agreed.

"Yeah, they were making like, deportation hype videos with trap beats and s---, and I was like, what are we doing?" Von said, before adding, "Everything has turned into like, the WWE. None of it's real."

Von said he got threats and felt "paranoid" after the video. When it was first shared by DHS, the podcaster responded on X, writing in a since-deleted tweet on Sept. 23, "Yooo DHS i didnt approve to be used in this, per USA Today. Please take this down and please keep me out of your banger deportation videos. When it comes to immigration my thoughts and heart are alot more nuanced than this video allows. Bye!

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PowerfulJRE/YouTube Joe Rogan on 'The Joe Rogan Experience'

Rogan's comments on Tuesday are not the first time he's openly criticized the Trump administration's immigration policy in recent months.

On an October episode of his podcast, Rogan  who endorsed President Donald Trump in the 2024 election  said he never could have predicted the harsh techniques he's seen deployed by DHS.

No one with a heart is going to go along with that. And I did not ever anticipate seeing that on TV on a regular basis, Rogan said. I really thought they were just going to go after the criminals. I really thought there was enough gang members and enough people, MS-13 members and whatever they were looking for, that they would just go after those guys.

And in August, Rogan wondered if DHS was taking their deportation efforts too far, saying at the time, "It was a visceral reaction that a lot of people had to the idea of people just showing up and pulling people out of schools and pulling people out of Home Depot and pulling people that were just hard-working people. Thats what freaks people out."

He added, "When people thought about ICE, they thought, Great, were going to get rid of the gang members, they didnt think, 'Great, youre going to get rid of the landscaper.' "

Read the original article on People
Kroger announced Nov. 18 that it will close three automated fulfillment centers across three states, citing an effort to improve delivery services.

The grocery giant said in a news release that it will shutter the centers in Pleasant Prairie, Wisconsin, Frederick, Maryland, and Groveland, Florida, in January. The company added that it will monitor the performance of the remaining centers it operates with British online supermarket and technology group Ocado.

"We are taking decisive action to make shopping easier, offer faster delivery times, provide more options to our customers, and we expect to deliver profitable sales growth as a result," Ron Sargent, Kroger Chairman and CEO, said in the release.

Kroger expects the closures to have no impact on its core sales and claims it will increase its e-commerce operating profit of about $400 million in 2026. The company stated that it has strengthened partnerships with online grocery and food delivery firms, including Instacart, DoorDash, and Uber Eats, as part of its efforts to rework its e-commerce strategy.

"eCommerce remains a core part of serving customers who want better value," Sargent said.

A layoff notice filed in Wisconsin, updated in the USA TODAY WARN Tracker, shows that 211 jobs will be slashed at the Pleasant Prairie facility.

The closure of the Groveland facility would result in 935 jobs being cut, according to Florida's WARN notice page. Over 450 of those being laid off are classified as "customer service delivery driver," according to the notice.

Fulfillment centers connected to the Groveland facility in Florida are also set to close, the Jacksonville Times-Union, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported. WARN notices for those facilities indicate that 468 jobs will be cut across three locations.

A WARN Notice for the Maryland facility has not been posted as of Nov. 18. The facilities will close Feb. 1, according to the WARN notices.

Job market trend: Job cuts surge in worst October layoffs in 22 years. Here's why

Grocery delivery market changes after the COVID-19 pandemic

Kroger partnered with Ocado in 2018 to deploy the company's Smart Platform for automated fulfillment centers.

Ocado stated that it would receive over $250 million in compensation following the closures and expects an impact of about $50 million in fiscal year 2026. Kroger said that it will incur about $2.6 billion in impairment and other related charges associated with the closures in the third quarter of 2025.

In September, the company signaled a potential retreat from its investment in automated warehouses when it announced a "site-by-site" review of the fulfillment network it built with Ocado.

"The pandemic bump didn't hold, and shoppers moved back to stores quickly, so the economics of running dedicated ecommerce facilities may no longer make sense," eMarketer analyst Suzy Davidkhanian told Reuters, adding Kroger's partnerships with the online platforms provide it more reach among consumers. "In this environment, partnering (with delivery companies) rather than fulfilling (orders) in-house is the more efficient path forward."

Both companies will operate the remaining five sites in Ohio, Texas, Georgia, Colorado, and Michigan, Ocado added.

Kroger, based in Ohio, employs 409,000 workers nationwide, The Cincinnati Enquirer, part of the USA TODAY Network, reported in September.

Contributing: Reuters

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Kroger closes delivery facilities in Wisconsin, Florida, and Maryland
L3harris Technologies logo is seen in this illustration taken July 26, 2025. REUTERS/Dado Ruvic/Illustration

(Reuters) -Defense supplier L3Harris Technologies said on Tuesday it will invest $400 million in a new solid rocket motor production campus in Arkansas, marking one of the largest such expansions in the U.S. in decades.

The new 110-acre campus at Camden, Arkansas will feature more than 20 buildings and expand manufacturing capacity of large solid rocket motors by six fold.

The expansion comes as the Russia-Ukraine war and conflicts in the Middle East have spurred demand for solid rocket motors used in long-range missiles and air defense systems.

L3Harris makes rocket motors through its Aerojet Rocketdyne unit, which the defense contractor acquired more than two years ago in a $4.7 billion deal.

L3Harris has been producing rocket motors in Camden since 1979, and began building four solid rocket motor production facilities for smaller tactical weapons in February. The location produces more than 115,000 solid rocket motors of various sizes a year.

The new Camden facility will produce medium and large rocket motors used in missiles, interceptors, and hypersonic weapons that form key parts of U.S. and allied air and missile defense systems.

The company in July said it will expand production of such motors to support robust demand for arms and military equipment amid the Russia-Ukraine war and Middle East conflicts.

The company is investing more than $500 million across its rocket motor sites in Arkansas, Virginia, and Alabama. The investment is also seen as an effort towards contributing to the U.S. government attempts to develop an ambitious homeland missile defense shield dubbed Golden Dome.

(Reporting by Parth Chandna in Bengaluru and Mike Stone in Washington; Editing by Leroy Leo)
President Donald Trump points to a reporter as he meets with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office of the White House, on Tuesday. - Evan Vucci/AP

After a reporter reminded Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House on Tuesday that US intelligence concluded that you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist, Saudi dissident and Washington Post contributing columnist Jamal Khashoggi, President Donald Trump stepped in to describe Khashoggi as somebody that was extremely controversial and a person a lot of people didnt like.

Then Trump rejected the US intelligence finding, claiming that the crown prince had been unaware of the 2018 killing of the prominent critic by a team of Saudi operatives at a Saudi consulate.

Whether you like him (Khashoggi) or didnt like him, things happen. But he (the crown prince) knew nothing about it. And we can leave it at that, Trump said. You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.

That was Trumps most forceful public defense of the crown prince over the 2018 death of Khashoggi. But it was not the only one.

Since the fall of 2018, Trump has repeatedly made a point of promoting bin Salmans denials on the Khashoggi scandal  often emphasizing the crown princes words over the findings of the US intelligence assessments that concluded bin Salman played a central role in the killing. Again and again, Trump has pivoted to an explanation of why he sees Saudi Arabia as a critical ally on the economy and national security.

Here is a timeline of some of Trumps remarks.

October 11, 2018: Trump focuses on Saudi investment

Less than two weeks after Khashoggi was killed at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, where he had gone to get documents for his upcoming marriage, a journalist asked Trump whether the case would change how he dealt with the crown prince or other Saudi officials. Trump said, Well have to see what happens, and I dont like stopping massive amounts of money thats being poured into our country from Saudi Arabia.

Trump said that therell be something that has to take place, but first, I want to find out what happened. And he added: Again, this took place in Turkey. And to the best of our knowledge, Khashoggi is not a United States citizen. Is that right? When a journalist confirmed Khashoggi lived in the US but wasnt a citizen, Trump said we dont like the killing, even a little bit, but he added again that it would not be acceptable to reject what he claimed was $110 billion in Saudi investment over the scandal.

October 11, 2018: Trump notes Saudi leaders deny it vehemently

Asked in a CBS interview whether Khashoggi was murdered by the Saudis and whether the crown prince gave the order, Trump said it was not yet clear; he added, We would be very upset and angry if that were the case. As of this moment, they deny it. And deny it vehemently. Could it be them? Yes. He said, Theres something really terrible and disgusting about that, if that were the case, and that there will be severe punishment involved  but also said he doesnt want US defense manufacturers to lose important Saudi purchases.

October 16, 2018: Trump tweets out the crown princes denial

Trump wrote on Twitter: Just spoke with the Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia who totally denied any knowledge of what took place in their Turkish Consulate. Trump also wrote that the crown prince said an investigation was already underway, and the president added  without a note of skepticism about the legitimacy of a Saudi probe  that answers will be forthcoming shortly.

November 16, 2018: Trump asks, Will anybody really know?

Asked in a Fox News interview whether the crown prince was lying to him about not being involved in the killing, Trump said, I dont know  you know, who can really know  but I can say this: Hes got many people now that say he had no knowledge. Trump didnt name those people. He said moments later, Will anybody really know?

Trump said people close to the crown prince were probably involved, and noted that he had just put sanctions on 17 Saudi individuals over the case, but added, At the same time we do have an ally, and I want to stick with an ally that in many ways has been very good.

November 17, 2018: Trump claims, As of this moment, we were told that he did not play a role

The morning after The Washington Post, CNN and The New York Times reported that sources said the CIA had assessed that the crown prince had ordered the killing of Khashoggi, Trump told reporters that the CIA would be speaking to him later that day  but claimed, As of this moment, we were told that he (the crown prince) did not play a role.

Asked a question (partly inaudible on the video of the exchange) related to holding the crown prince responsible, Trump said, Well, were taking a look at it. You know, we also have a great ally in Saudi Arabia. They give us a lot of jobs. They give us a lot of business, a lot of economic development.  They have been a truly spectacular ally in terms of jobs and economic development.

November 20, 2018: Trump writes, Maybe he did and maybe he didnt!

Trump issued a written statement in which he condemned the killing of Khashoggi as an unacceptable and horrible crime but also repeated Saudi representatives allegations against Khashoggi. And he then pivoted to this: King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman vigorously deny any knowledge of the planning or execution of the murder of Mr. Khashoggi. Our intelligence agencies continue to assess all information, but it could very well be that the Crown Prince had knowledge of this tragic event  maybe he did and maybe he didnt! That being said, we may never know all of the facts surrounding the murder of Mr. Jamal Khashoggi. In any case, our relationship is with the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Trump used much of the statement to explain that he sees Saudi Arabia as an important source of investment and cheap oil and a key partner in fighting Iran and Radical Islamic Terrorism.

November 27, 2018: The CIA did not say affirmatively he did it, Trump claims

In an interview with The Washington Post, Trump again described Saudi Arabia as a great ally and said he hoped to meet with the crown prince at an upcoming G20 summit. Asked directly why he was taking bin Salmans denials over the evidence gathered by the intelligence community, Trump said, I havent done that. If you look at my statement, its maybe he did and maybe he didnt. But he denies it. And people around him deny it. And the CIA did not say affirmatively he did it, either, by the way. Im not saying that theyre saying he didnt do it, but they didnt say it affirmatively.

He didnt explain exactly what he meant. But a week later, a procession of US senators leaving a classified briefing about the killing from then-CIA Director Gina Haspel said they were left with no doubt about bin Salmans involvement in the killing; Republican then-Sen. Bob Corker, who was chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said he was sure the crown prince ordered the killing, monitored the killing, knew exactly what was happening, planned it in advance. If he was in front of a jury he would be convicted in 30 minutes.

A report from the Office of the Director of National Intelligence, declassified in 2021, said, We assess that Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Muhammad bin Salman approved an operation in Istanbul, Turkey to capture or kill Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. The report continued, We base this assessment on the Crown Princes control of decisionmaking in the Kingdom since 2017, the direct involvement of a key adviser and members of Muhammad bin Salmans protective detail in the operation, and the Crown Princes support for using violent measures to silence dissidents abroad, including Khashoggi.

January 31, 2019: Trump says, Im not making excuses for anybody. I think that was a terrible event

Trump said in an interview with The New York Times that Saudi Arabia is a country that pays us a tremendous amount of money, creates a tremendous amount of jobs, then adds of the Khashoggi case: And Saudi Arabia, Im not making excuses for anybody. I think that was a terrible event. It was a terrible tragedy. It was a terrible crime.

June 21, 2019: Trump brushes off call for FBI probe, saying I think its been heavily investigated

Two days after the release of the report of a United Nations investigation into the killing of Khashoggi  which said there is sufficient credible evidence regarding the responsibility of the Crown Prince demanding further investigation and said the FBI should investigate  Trump told NBC that he had spoken to the crown prince that morning but the Khashoggi matter hadnt come up. Trump then brushed aside the idea of the FBI investigating the killing, saying, I think its been heavily investigated. Asked by whom, Trump said, By everybody. Trump then spoke again about the importance of Saudi purchases of US products.

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Baoshan City promotes standardized and large-scale planting of wasabi in SW China

Xinhua) 09:34, November 19, 2025

An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 17, 2025 shows a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

In recent years, local government has been promoting standardized and large-scale planting of wasabi, creating new opportunities for mountainous areas and helping farmers increase their income.

At present, Baoshan City has become the largest wasabi planting area in China, and wasabi grown here has been exported to foreign countries.

Farmers harvest wasabi at a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 17, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei)

Farmers harvest wasabi at a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 17, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei)

Workers process wasabi at the workshop of a wasabi company in Banqiao Town of Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 18, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei)

Workers process wasabi at the workshop of a wasabi company in Banqiao Town of Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 18, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

Farmers harvest wasabi at a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 17, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

Farmers harvest wasabi at a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 17, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

Workers process the roots of wasabi at the workshop of a wasabi company in Banqiao Town of Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 18, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei)

Workers process the roots of wasabi at the workshop of a wasabi company in Banqiao Town of Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province, Nov. 18, 2025. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Wang Guansen)

An aerial drone photo taken on Nov. 17, 2025 shows a wasabi planting base in Longyang District, Baoshan City, southwest China's Yunnan Province. Baoshan City offers a sound environment for wasabi, a perennial herb prized for its pungent root used in the famous condiment and is notoriously difficult to cultivate. (Xinhua/Gao Yongwei)

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Anyone who is searching for a trail that offers a variety of quests through tight spaces will love the Anniversary Narrows Trail. This claustrophobic hike in Nevada offers red rocks, beautiful views, and unforgettable slot canyons. Its breathtaking and unforgettable. This is one of those hikes that will stay with you forever. Read on to learn more about it.

If youre visiting southern Nevada and want to tackle a challenging hike that is quite different from many others, head to Lake Mead National Recreation Area to explore the Anniversary Narrows Trail. This is an eight-mile loop trail thats not easy; itll take you most of the day to complete. Along the way, youll experience more than 1,400 feet of elevation gain as you summit a peak, pass through canyons, enjoy beautiful vistas, scramble over boulders, and even check out the entrance of an abandoned mine.

The slot canyons along this trail are a huge draw. They are tall, narrow, and beautiful. If youre claustrophobic, you may feel a little tense when passing through them, but their beauty will likely distract you enough to keep you moving forward on the trail.

Depending on the time of year, you may have to wade through some water, so come prepared with extra hiking gear. In general, however, the trail is easy to follow through the slot canyons, but some hikers have found other areas of the trail poorly marked. We recommend downloading a map before you go, as cell phone service is spotty in this area. Fortunately, other hikers often leave rock cairns to help others stay on the trail, so keep an eye out for them. And, since this area can be extremely hot, be sure to bring plenty of drinking water along with you-youre going to need it.

This trail is long and quite challenging in parts, so youll want to wear sturdy hiking shoes for your safety. Hiking poles might be a good aid as well if you have them. Parts of this trail are nearly vertical, or the terrain is comprised of gravel or sand, so you need to be prepared for anything.

Youll also find the entrance to an abandoned mine along this trail. The Anniversary Mine was used to mine borax in the 1920s. Hikers are advised to stay out of the mine for safety reasons, but the entrance offers unique photo opportunities from the outside.

Theres also a good chance that youll see some wildlife along this trail. On very hot days, most creatures will be hiding in the shade, but at dawn, dusk, or on cooler days, you may encounter bighorn sheep, mule deer, desert tortoise, snakes, coyotes, hawks, eagles, and other birds. In fact, over 240 different species of birds have been recorded in Lake Mead Recreation Area, along with 41 different types of reptiles and 19 species of bats.

This trail is an excellent choice for experienced hikers seeking a challenge and who may be looking to discover something new and interesting. The canyons, mine, wildlife, and rock formations along the Anniversary Narrows Trail are spectacular and impress anyone who chooses to tackle this journey. This trail isnt easy, but its absolutely worth the time and effort.

Dogs are allowed on this trail, but you must keep your pup on a leash. Also, theres a per-car fee to enter Lake Mead National Recreation Area, but youre sure to find it reasonable and worth it after experiencing this incredible trail.

Youll love the Anniversary Narrows Trail. It may trigger your claustrophobia in some sections, but youre sure to find this adventure well worth it. Give it a try, and happy trails to you!

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner.
A plate with a tiramisu slice next to a spoon - Alex_Karlsson/Shutterstock

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We all strive to make Italian food that's as authentic as possible. We follow tested recipes, buy imported ingredients, and there might even be a fancy piece of cookware involved. All of it feels especially important when it comes to recreating traditional desserts like tiramisu. If you're going to the effort of finding the best mascarpone and ladyfingers, then you need to make sure you're brewing your coffee the right way, too. For a truly authentic tiramisu, you need to use a moka pot.

If you've ever visited Italy, you might have seen these small, octagonal coffee jugs in local homes. Invented by Alfonso Bialetti in 1933, the moka pot is a symbol of life in Italy. It's estimated that over 90% of Italian homes own at least one. Bialetti's Moka Express is even on permanent display at the Museum of Modern Art in New York to showcase Italian design.

Moka pots brew strong, espresso-style coffee that's typically made of a special dark-roasted blend of arabica and robusta beans. That blend is key to a classic Italian tiramisu. Moka coffee is much stronger than the coffee we're used to in America, with a richer and more concentrated flavor. The deeply toasted notes pair perfectly with the other ingredients in tiramisu like cocoa powder, and the coffee's bitterness helps cut the creaminess of the mascarpone.

Read more: 10 Instant Espresso Brands, Ranked Worst To Best

How to brew coffee in a moka pot for better tiramisu

A moka pot on a gas stove - Tamer Alkis/Getty Images

Moka pots (like this Bellemain Stovetop Moka Pot) are easy to find online, and they can last a lifetime. They're made of three aluminum parts: a base chamber, a funnel filter, and an upper chamber. The base chamber is filled with water, the coffee grinds are placed on top of the plate in the funnel, and the coffee is collected in the top part. As the pot heats up on a stove, the steam creates enough pressure to push the coffee up through the filter. There are some common moka pot mistakes, but just remember that once it starts sputtering, it's ready to pour.

You need about 1  cup of perfectly brewed moka pot coffee to make tiramisu. It's a good idea to brew the coffee before you gather up your other ingredients, as you want it to cool slightly. If it's too hot when you dip the ladyfingers in it, they could dissolve. You also run the risk of melting the mascarpone, and overall just creating a soggy mess, which isn't very Italian.

If you don't have a moka pot, a French press or drip coffee maker also work. You just want to make sure to use a coffee that's as bold and as concentrated as possible. A dark roast is best, and try to get an Italian option, if you can. The original tiramisu recipe from Le Beccherie in Treviso  which many people credit with being the inventors of the dessert -- features moka pot coffee, so it really is worth the extra effort.

Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
A flight arriving in Johannesburg, South Africa, carrying 153 Palestinians from Gaza, in this image released Nov. 13. (Embassy of the State of Palestine / South Africa / via Facebook)

The mystery surrounding a plane that arrived in South Africa carrying more than 150 Palestinians deepened Wednesday after the company at the center of the saga responded to media coverage.

Inconsistencies involving the public profile of Al-Majd Europe, a company that some on the flight said organized their travel, have only added to the uncertainty over how the passengers were able to leave the Middle East and who was ultimately behind their voyage.

In a lengthy statement late Tuesday, Al-Majd did not directly acknowledge organizing the flight, which South Africa labeled a clearly orchestrated operation, after it landed in Johannesburg last week to the surprise of authorities.

Al-Majd said that its only interaction with the Israeli authorities is for the purpose of coordinating exits from Gaza.

South African Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola told reporters Monday that the flight was part of a clear agenda to cleanse the Palestinians out of Gaza and the West Bank.

He did not say who was behind this alleged effort, but his comments were widely seen as being directed at Israel as the fragile ceasefire in Gaza intensifies questions about the fate of the 2 million Palestinians living in the devastated enclave.

South Africa, a staunch Israel critic and supporter of the Palestinian cause, filed a case at the United Nations' International Court of Justice in late 2023 accusing Israel of genocide in Gaza, which Israel has vehemently rejected. The case remains ongoing.

We are suspicious as the South African government about the circumstances surrounding the arrival of the plane and the passengers that were in the plane, Lamola said, adding that his country was investigating further and did not want more such flights heading its way.

COGAT, the Israeli militarys liaison with the Palestinians, said the Palestinians left Gaza after it had received approval from a third country to receive them. COGAT did not name the third country.

An Israeli government spokesperson said that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has made it clear that Gazans should be allowed to leave Gaza and come back as they please.

President Donald Trumps peace plan stipulates that no one will be forced to leave Gaza, and those who wish to leave will be free to do so and free to return.

But fears of ethnic cleansing have persisted among Palestinians and their supporters. Israel's government instructed its military in February to prepare a plan for Palestinians to voluntarily leave the enclave, after it embraced a Trump proposal for Gaza to be emptied of its residents and taken over by the United States.

'Flushed out' of Gaza

The chartered plane arrived at Johannesburgs O. R. Tambo International Airport on Thursday, appearing to blindside the South African government.

Hanan Jarrar, center, Palestinian ambassador to South Africa, smiles for a picture on a plane in Johannesburg, South Africa. (Embassy of the State of Palestine / South Africa / via Facebook)

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa told reporters Friday the Palestinians were from Gaza and were mysteriously put on a plane. They did not have the necessary documents to enter, he said, but wouldnt be turned back because they come from a strife-torn, a war-torn country.

He said South Africa would take them in out of compassion but added it does seem like they were being, you know, flushed out.

South Africas Border Management Authority said that the passengers on board the plane did not indicate duration of stay or accommodation in South Africa, and did not have exit stamps in their passports.

They were initially denied entry, but 130 passengers had since been processed into the care of a South African nongovernmental organization called Gift of the Givers, which helps with relief efforts in war zones and disaster areas.

The other 23 continued to other destinations, the Border Management Authority said. Palestinians are eligible for 90-day visa-exempt travel to South Africa, it added.

NBC News has reached out to the South African government for further comment.

It was not immediately clear how the Palestinians on board would have been able to leave Israel without proper documents.

Questions over who's behind the flight

Reuters spoke with two Palestinians who said they paid $2,000 per seat to fly their families to South Africa on the plane, as part of a trip arranged by an organization called Al-Majd Europe. They said they were bused from Gaza, and taken through the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing before being flown out of an Israeli airport last week.

NBC News initially reached out to Al-Majd Europe on Tuesday via an email listed on its website but did not hear back. Its location is only listed as Sheikh Jarrah, Jerusalem, with an embedded map with a pin pointing to a building behind a hospital and the British Consulate.

NBC News' analysis of its online presence revealed a number of inconsistencies.

Al-Majd says it's a humanitarian organization, founded in 2010 in Germany but NBC News found no evidence that its website existed before February this year. Its Facebook and X accounts were also created this year. NBC News also could not find the organization in the register of the German tax administration.

NBC News determined that a photo accompanying the about page shows a building with the Al-Majd sign and Jerusalem's Dome of the Rock in the background was AI-generated. The website has multiple blog posts with case study-style summaries of its claimed work as a charity during the war in Syria and the earthquake in Turkey. While the website was created this year, the blog posts are dated from 2023.

One of the case studies listed shows a photo of a woman it calls Mona Farouk, who it says left Syria for neighboring Lebanon in 2013, and then needed Al-Majd's help in 2014 to flee the fighting again. A reverse image search led NBC News to a Middle East Eye article last year with the same photo, which the news organization credits to its own journalist. The article names the woman in the photo as Abeer Khayat, and says she left Syria in 2012.

The website has a terms and conditions page that states that the organizing entity for the Voluntary Migration Program to leave the Gaza strip is Talent Globus.

NBC News found that it is a company registered in Estonia in 2024 by a person named Tomer Janar Lind. NBC News has reached out to an account with the same name on LinkedIn. The United Kingdom's business registry shows Lind as a director in two dissolved companies and one active company with overdue accounts. None of them appear to be linked to Talent Globus.

The Talent Globus website lists four employees, three of whom are shown with stock images that are available online. The company's about section says its been around for a decade, yet the company records say it was founded in 2024. The phone number listed doesnt work when called.

The company released a statement on X late Tuesday in order to "directly address the false accusations and disinformation circulated by parties with clear political interests" that it said were meant to strip the people of Gaza of their freedom of choice.

It said it had no connection to Israels Mossad or any other intelligence services, and claimed that it "was founded by refugees who escaped dictatorial regimes, including refugees from Hamas rule in Gaza."

The statement did not directly mention the Palestinians who arrived in South Africa last week or the inconsistencies on its website.

NBC News has reached out to Al-Majd for further clarification.

The Palestinian Embassy in South Africa told NBC News that it was closely monitoring the situation and liaising with South African authorities to ensure the protection and well-being of all Palestinian nationals involved, but that due to the sensitivity of the matter, the embassy was not able to provide further details at this time.

The Palestinian Foreign Ministry expressed deep thanks for the principled positions of the leadership, government and people of South Africa that support the Palestinian people and their cause in a statement sent to NBC News on Friday. It warned that any companies that lure Palestinians and incite them to deportation will bear legal consequences while cautioning Palestinians not to fall prey to human trafficking.
At least 26 people have been killed including three children in a Russian missile and drone attack that hit two blocks of flats in the western city of Ternopil, Ukrainian officials say.

They say another 93 people were wounded, 18 of them children, in the strike early on Wednesday - one of the deadliest in the region since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine's air force later said Russian X-101 cruise missiles had hit the residential flats.

The neighbouring Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions were also struck, and a drone attack on three districts of the north-eastern city of Kharkiv wounded more than 30 people. Photos posted online showed buildings and cars ablaze.

Ukraine's air force said it had shot down 442 of 476 drones and 41 of 48 missiles launched by Russia, including 10 missiles destroyed by F-16 and Mirage 2000 fighter jets supplied to Kyiv by its Western allies.

But in a reference to how stretched Ukraine's air defences currently are, the air force pleaded for "the uninterrupted and timely supply of aviation weapons from Western partners".

Ternopil, a city closer to the Polish border than the capital Kyiv, has rarely faced attacks since the full-scale invasion. Social media footage of this strike shows missiles shooting across the sky towards the city, though very little sign of air defences reacting from the ground.

The devastation caused by the Russian strikes on Ternopil soon became clear. A video shared by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky showed one of the blocks of flats had completely caved in. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said it had been destroyed between the third and ninth floors.

The attack had caused "significant destruction", said Zelensky, and many victims were reported to be in the rubble. Plumes of smoke poured from windows and small fires burned outside the tenement.

A giant smoke cloud rose in the distance behind the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Ternopil, as sirens blared throughout the city.

With limited defence systems, and a vast country to defend every night, no matter how effective Ukraine becomes at shooting down Russian missiles and drones, there is always a risk some will get through  to devastating effect, as happened in Ternopil.

Rescuers workers scoured the wreckage of the site hours after the attack [@zinkevich_igor]

Energy facilities, transport and civil infrastructure were damaged elsewhere in western Ukraine.

The energy sector came under attack in Ivano-Frankivsk region where two of the three people reported wounded were children.

The head of Lviv region said an energy facility had been struck.

Russia has recently upped its attacks on Ukraine's energy grid - as the fourth winter of the war approaches - hoping to damage morale as well as logistics and Ukraine's own defence industry.

Electrical supplies are already being rationed and, after the latest attacks, the energy ministry announced more power cuts across the country.

Russia's defence ministry said it had carried out its "massive strike using long-range precision weapons", claiming it had targeted Ukraine's "military-industrial complex and energy sector" in response to Ukrainian attacks on "civilian targets".

Ukraine's military said on Tuesday it had fired US-supplied longer-range Atacms missiles at military targets inside Russia, the first time they had admitted using Atacms on Russian soil.

Russia's defence ministry accused Ukraine of firing four of the missiles at the southern city of Voronezh but said they had all been shot down by air defences.

Meanwhile, Zelensky has travelled to the Turkish capital Ankara, in an attempt to revive a US bid to end the war. He held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan amid reports President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff has been working on a plan with Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev.

The Kremlin said earlier that no Russian representative would be joining the talks in Ankara.

Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman appeared to dismiss US media reports that Washington and Moscow had been working on a peace plan for Ukraine - without any involvement of Kyiv and its European allies.

"In this case, we have no additional innovations to what we call 'the spirit of Anchorage'," Dmitry Peskov told Russia's state-run media, referring to the August summit between Putin and Trump in the US state Alaska.

Any agreements reached during the one-day meeting have not been made public.

Peskov's comments came as Zelensky was reportedly due to meet two top US army officials in Kyiv on Thursday. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Army Chief of Staff General Randy George are the most senior US military officials to visit the Ukrainian capital since President Donald Trump took office, Reuters reports.

In a separate development, Romania's defence ministry said a Russian drone had flown about 8km (5 miles) through its airspace in the early hours of Wednesday. The drone then crossed into Ukraine and Moldova before returning to Romania, it said.

Romanian and German air force planes were scrambled in response to the incursion and the defence ministry said it was unclear where the drone had come down.

Poland also deployed jets early on Wednesday and temporarily closed two airports in the southeast in response to the strikes in western Ukraine.

As the fourth anniversary of the start of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches next February, Moscow and Kyiv remain fundamentally opposed in their views of how to end the war.

Ukraine and its Western allies, including the US, have called for an immediate ceasefire along the vast front line  but Russia has repeatedly ruled that out, repeating demands that Ukraine says amount to its de facto capitulation.

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow's pre-conditions for a peace deal - including tough curbs on the size of Ukraine's military and the country's neutrality - had not changed since Putin laid them out two months before the full-scale invasion.
If you are looking for a surreal and under-the-radar hike, then head to the north shore of Mono Lake to experience the Black Point Fissure Trail. As if it appeared from another planet, this maze of volcanic cracks leads hikers into shadowy corridors where the sunlight barely creeps through. Blending quiet solitude with geological wonder, the Black Point Fissure Trail is a destination for those who are ready to discover something unexpected.

A Well Kept Secret in California

Only a short drive off the highway, located right near the Mono Lake Visitor Center, is a low hill that rises above the lake. Hidden within the volcanic tuff is a series of deep volcanic fissures, created thousands of years ago when the lava cooled and cracked apart. Now that time has passed, the erosion has sculpted the cracks into narrow passageways that visitors enjoy today. This natural playground of slots, walls, and chambers is a touch of mystery that invites exploration.

Getting to the Trailhead

Upon arriving at the trailhead, where the small sign points the way, the trail is quite unassuming, taking visitors through sagebrush and assorted volcanic rocks. Breathe in the faint scent of sulfur from the nearby lake, where there is an aura of open and exposed terrain that feels desolate. On the ascent of the slope at Black Point, the landscape begins to change; the ground becomes rougher and more uneven, foreshadowing the dramatic climax that lies just ahead.

Adding to the adventure of discovery, the trail leading into the trail has no single marker pointing the way. Hikers seek out and follow worn-in footpaths that converge near the larger, main cracks. Upon reaching the edge, the fissures pop out of nowhere. One moment, hikers are on flat ground, and the next, they are looking into a shadowy chasm that can drop up to thirty feet below. The best way in is a scramble down loose rock; be sure to pack appropriate hiking equipment and layers to protect yourself from the temperature drop once you've entered the shade.

Inside the Fissures

Once hikers step inside the fissures, the air is still. The sounds of the modern world disappear as the volcanic walls rise high above. At times, the walls are so close together that a visitor can touch both sides at once. At times, the passage can narrow to a few feet wide, forcing visitors to turn sideways to continue. Illuminating the rock are streams of sunlight that shine through cracks, highlighting shades of ochre, brown, and gray. Eerie and stunning, this hike evokes the feeling of walking through the veins of the earth itself.

Exploring the various fissures is an experience in its own right, from wide, airy passages to narrow, labyrinthine paths that challenge hikers sense of direction. It's easy to lose track of time as you wander, tracing the contours of stone and silence.

A Diamond in the Rough

While this hike is only two miles round-trip, it feels far more immersive than most outdoor excursions. The Black Point Fissure Hike offers a chance to step into a geological tale that began long ago. For travelers seeking something more to explore in California, be sure to use the Only In Your State AI-powered itinerary planner to receive customized local restaurant, activity, and event suggestions.

The isolation, dramatic peaks, alpine lakes, and raw beauty of this hike offer something completely different: intimacy. For those who crave a hike that feels both otherworldly and inward, the Black Point Fissures are a reminder that the most profound landscapes aren't always the ones that tower above you; sometimes, they are the ones that close in around you and swallow you whole.

Feeling inspired? Try planning your own trip using Only In Your State's itinerary planner.
When officials at Utah Valley University approved the plans for Charlie Kirk's appearance at the school on Sept. 10 as part of his "American Comeback" tour, they expected roughly 600 people would be there, according to newly released records.

In reality, police said more than five times as many people showed up to the event where Kirk was assassinated and the records show that event planners didn't think emergency medical services would be necessary.

"We had probably over 3,000 people who were in attendance," UVU Police Chief Jeffrey Long told reporters at a press conference shortly after the incident, noting that they had six officers working at the event and Kirk had his own security team.

Trump posthumously awards Charlie Kirk the Presidential Medal of Freedom

Kirk, the 31-year-old Turning Point USA founder and prominent supporter of President Donald Trump, was shot and killed while he was speaking near a "Prove Me Wrong" tent on campus in Orem, roughly 40 miles south of Salt Lake City.

Trent Nelson/The Salt Lake Tribune/Getty Images - PHOTO: Charlie Kirk speaks at Utah Valley University on September 10, 2025 in Orem, Utah.

Police later arrested alleged shooter Tyler Robinson, a 22-year-old who is due back in court in January.

"As part of the planning process, good planners will build into their plan contingencies for these types of anticipated events and a larger than anticipated crowd would be one of those," said John Cohen, an ABC News contributor and former Department of Homeland Security official.

'There is talk about which outdoor space to use'

In the time since Kirks killing, public safety at the event has come under the microscope.

Now, documents released by Utah Valley University in response to a request filed by ABC News are shining new light on the planning process, showing that initially, the expected "head count" was 200 people before that number was increased to 600.

"This event will be marketed to students. Minors or the general public may see this event and want to attend, but overall, we will be promoting it to students only," a partially redacted questionnaire stated.

Vance says 'left-wing extremism' helped lead to Charlie Kirk's killing

Kirk's planned appearance was promoted nationally on Turning Point USA's Facebook pages on Aug. 27. The posts did not specify whether the event was open only to UVU students or the general public.

Utah Valley University declined to comment regarding ABC News questions about the documents. The university said in a prepared statement that campus police officers play a vital role in university security and that the school is about to issue a request for proposals as part of an independent review into Kirks assassination that will ultimately be made public.

Lindsey Wasson/AP - PHOTO: Crime scene tape surrounds Utah Valley University after Turning Point USA CEO and co-founder Charlie Kirk was shot and killed on Sept. 13, 2025, in Orem, Utah.

"Officers protect students, employees, visitors, and property, and take a proactive approach to crime prevention, education, and community engagement," the statement noted in part. "UVU is currently in the process of hiring eight additional police officers. UVU is also hiring two new security managers to provide additional oversight and support for campus events."

The questionnaire noted that Kirk would be speaking and that "Students will have the opportunity to go up to the mic and ask him questions while others listen and spectate."

Kirk, whose controversial views frequently made headlines, previously stated that he and his family would receive death threats "all the time."

In a statement to ABC News, a Turning Point USA official said, "On an online form submitted in early July, a TPUSA UVU chapter member selected "200+" as the max attendance option available on the school's online form. An estimate of 600 was later provided a few weeks later via an event request form, which was based on a similar event the year prior at the University of Utah. Subsequent conversations between school officials and TPUSA's Safety Team updated that estimate to 1,500 - 2,000 based on more recent Prove Me Wrong campus events. The events are un-ticketed and open to the public, including those just walking by, but PD and event coordinators estimated the attendance at approximately 3,000."

Key takeaways from Charlie Kirk's memorial service

"You can plan and plan and plan, but you better factor into your plan that the situation is going to evolve when the event begins," Cohen said.

The files also show that weeks ahead of Kirk's visit to UVU, there was discussion about the potential impact of the number of attendees on the event venue and the possibility of protests on campus.

While the tour stop was slated to take place in the Sorensen Student Center courtyard and ultimately ended up occurring there, someone with a UVU email address whose name was redacted by the school suggested that the event be held elsewhere on campus.

Justin Sullivan/Getty Images - PHOTO: 2025 Getty Images Year In Review Donald Trump Participates In A Turning Point Town Hall In Phoenix, Arizona

"Also- we think that the FL Quad would be better space wise for the group, if they get a large crowd in the area," the sender wrote on Aug. 21, apparently referring to the Fulton Library quad across campus.

The recipient of the message's name was also redacted by UVU.

"There is talk about which outdoor space to use," UVU's Major Event Assessment Committee, which reviews proposals for all large functions on campus, stated in its event approval meeting notes. "The FL Quad is being considered."

"There are concerns [a]bout protests," the notes added. "Clubs said they are prepared for them."

Long, UVU's police chief, later described the location where the shooting took place as a "bowl area" surrounded by buildings. The shooter is believed to have fired from a distance from the top of a nearby building.

"You try to get your bases covered and unfortunately today we didn't, and because of that we had this tragic incident," Long said at the time.

Event plans did not call for a first aid station

Following the shooting, video footage showed Kirk being carried by six men to an SUV, which drove him to a local hospital.

The records released by UVU to ABC News indicate that when the event was being planned, in response to the section of the questionnaire that said "Will EMS need to be scheduled for your event?" the unidentified person who filled out the form wrote, "No."

This form was not the only place where that answer appeared.

For a generation of Black conservatives, Charlie Kirk built more than politics -- he built community

The approval meeting notes from UVU's Major Event Assessment Committee noted that while security would be needed at the event, a first aid station and additional insurance were not needed.

A Turning Point USA official told ABC News there were two UVU emergency medical personnel on site, but not an ambulance.

"TPUSA's Safety Team staffed up for the event to 12 security on site (up from usual 8-9), a team comprised of ex-military and law enforcement personnel trained and equipped with a full emergency medical kit and field dressing expertise," the official said.

Cohen said in his experience, "any event that involves a large number of people would typically include first aid capability as part of the security planning."

Cohen said that years ago, there was often a distinction during event security planning over whether a person speaking at the event was a high-profile elected official or a private individual, but that can no longer be the case.

"There is a need for a consistent level of security planning at any high-profile public event that will be attended by a large number of people because those are the types of events that increasingly are being exploited by those seeking to engage in a targeted attack or mass casualty attack," he added.

ABC News Will Steakin contributed to this report.
A video posted by Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky showed search-and-rescue operations in Ternopil, Ukraine, overnight, after Russian strikes killed over two dozen people. Zelensky said 22 people are still missing. - Clipped From Video

Rescuers were still working through the rubble on Friday, uncovering more bodies after a Russian attack hit apartment buildings in western Ukraine earlier this week, killing at least 31 people including several children, according to authorities.

Ukraines emergency service said Thursday that people were still missing after the airstrikes on two apartment blocks in the western city of Ternopil. On Friday, three more bodies were recovered, including those of two children. Ukraines interior minister said the strikes may have wiped out entire families.

The large-scale Russian attack overnight Tuesday was one of the deadliest to target western Ukraine since the start of the conflict and prompted NATO to scramble fighter jets over neighboring Poland and Romania.

Russia will never stop on its own, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a post on Telegram, urging allies to increase pressure on Moscow to halt the violence and restore peace.

Oksana Kobels son was in a ninth-story apartment in the building at the time of the attack.

I went to work, heard the explosions. I called him and said, Bohdan, go to the shelter, get dressed. He answered, Mom, I am already up. Everything will be fine, she said Wednesday, according to Reuters.

Russias attacks have mostly targeted the eastern part of the country and large cities such as Kyiv, and many Ukrainians have fled to the west.

The Ukrainian air force said Russia fired hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles during the attack. The buildings in Ternopil were most likely hit by Russias powerful Kh-101 cruise missile, which is designed to avoid air defenses and is equipped with an advanced precision guiding system, they said.

Romanias Defense Ministry said it scrambled two Eurofighters, part of NATOs fleet, and later two Romanian F-16 fighter jets after a Russian drone entered its airspace during the attack.

Polish and allied fighter jets were also launched to protect Polish airspace on Wednesday morning, the countrys operational command said.

Rescue workers put out a fire at a residential building damaged by a Russian strike in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. - Andrii Marienko/AP

Meanwhile, US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and a top-level Pentagon delegation were in Ukraine on Thursday for meetings with officials following reports that Russia and the US were working on peace proposals that call for Ukraine to cede land and reduce the size of its army.

Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski told CNN that any peace plan would have to involve Europe and leave Ukraine with the capacity to defend itself.

Poland is a neighbor of both Russia and Ukraine, and the (European Union) is helping Ukraine more, including militarily, than the US, and also financially more than the US. So we have a much bigger stake in this than the US, he said.

NATO allies have increasingly scrambled fighter jets in recent months during Russian attacks on Ukraine, or when stray Russian munitions, drones and warplanes have either strayed too close to their borders or crossed them.

The latest move by NATO comes during a tense week. Polish officials have pointed the finger at Russia after a key train track was destroyed in what Warsaw said was an unprecedented act of sabotage committed by two Ukrainian citizens who were collaborating with Russian services. Russian officials have denied the accusation.

On Wednesday, Polands Sikorski said he would close the last Russian consulate in the country in response to the destruction of the train track. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed regret over the move.

A Rafale jet fighter, drones and ammunition on display at the Villacoublay air base, in Velizy-Villacoublay, France, before the arrival of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday. - Christophe Ena/AFP/Getty Images

On Tuesday, the US State Department approved a possible $105 million sale that would allow Ukraine to upgrade its Patriot air defense system  a critical shield against Russian aerial attacks.

The proposed sale will improve Ukraines ability to meet current and future threats by further equipping it to conduct self-defense and regional security missions with a more robust local sustainment capability, said a Pentagon statement.

Earlier this week, Zelensky struck a deal during a visit to Paris to purchase up to 100 French-made Rafale fighter jets as well as anti-air defenses and drones from France.

This story and headline have been updated with additional developments.

Symons reported from Hong Kong and Nicholls from London. CNNs Antonia Mortensen, Anna Chernova and Nina Subkhanberdina contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
A green tractor with a red mower attachment cuts tall hemp plants in a wide field bordered by dense trees under a cloudy sky. Photo: Mark Stebnicki / Pexels

(The Center Square)  Colorado Gov. Jared Polis is expressing concern with new federal hemp restrictions, which experts say could impact the industry throughout the nation.

The restrictions were a part of Congress' continuing resolution that recently ended the government shutdown.

It's disappointing to see the federal government leading with fear rather than a vision for the future, and cutting off access to a variety of hemp-based products, Polis said. Here in Colorado, we are proud of the community of farmers who were the first in the nation to begin growing hemp, and for their positive impact on our economy.

Colorado has long been a leader in pushing the growth of the hemp industry. Its cultivation was first approved by Amendment 64 in 2012. In the following years, the state quickly moved to create the first U.S. state hemp regulatory program. That allowed farmers to register and begin legally growing hemp in 2014.

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, in 2023, the value of hemp production totaled $291 million. That's up 18% from 2022.

Ive been proud to advocate for hemp since my time in Congress, Polis said. From including it in the 2014 Farm Bill to flying a hemp flag over the United States Capitol on the 4th of July, all the way to the States groundbreaking Colorado Hemp Advancement & Management Plan, Colorado has been defining progress in the hemp industry and taking steps to regulate hemp responsibly.

Hemp and cannabis come from the same plant, but hemp is generally grown for industrial and commercial uses. It contains very low levels of THC, the compound that produces a high. In Colorado, farmers cultivate hemp for its durable fiber, nutrient-rich seeds and cannabinoid-producing flowers that can be processed into products like CBD oil.

According to the state, cannabis and hemp are treated differently. It is currently illegal to make or sell THC products that have been manufactured from hemp in Colorado.

Not enough is known about the health effects of using THC products made out of hemp, the state says on its website regarding industrial hemp. These include things like delta 8 vape cartridges and delta 8 candy. While Colorados Marijuana Enforcement Division regulates cannabis products, these THC products made of hemp are not regulated, and they could have chemicals that may harm your health.

Under the new restrictions, hemp-derived CBD products with a THC content of greater than 0.4 milligrams are banned by the federal government. The provision is set to take effect in November 2026 and would apply to a majority of the products currently in the market in the U.S.

Colorado already has its own restrictions on THC content, especially in hemp plants, which is defined as no more than 0.3% delta-9 THC on a dry weight basis. There are also other restrictions in place by the state.

While the line between what is legal and illegal in both state and national law is a bit blurry for growers and manufacturers, there are still concerns that these new restrictions will further stifle the hemp industry in Colorado.

Polis called out Republicans in particular for passing the new restrictions.

For a party that claims to support business and job growth, they have a funny way of showing it with their continued attempts to stifle growth and innovation, the Democratic governor said.

In recent years, there has already been a dramatic decrease in Colorados hemp production. In 2022, licensed hemp acreage dropped to just 3,590 acres, according to a 2022 report. Thats a 95.5% decline from its 2019 high of approximately 80,000 acres.
Two months before Lawrence Krauss retired from Arizona State University under a cloud of sexual misconduct reports, the prominent physicist asked his friend and confidant, Jeffrey Epstein, for a ride to Germany on the financiers jet.

Krauss needed the ride because one of the two talks he was supposed to give in that country was canceled when organizers learned of allegations he had groped a woman in Australia. He wanted to get to the other.

I was previously invited to give a major lecture in Heidelberg Oct. 14, but they had to cancel it after the university determination re Australia was publicized by the b----, Krauss wrote in an email.

Victims of Jeffrey Epstein rally at Capitol Hill to demand release of files Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) speaks during a news conference with alleged victims of disgraced financier and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein outside the U.S. Capitol on Sept. 3, 2025 in Washington, DC.

The coarse message is among the 20,000 pages of emails released Nov. 12 by both political parties in the U.S. House of Representatives from the investigation of Epstein, the now-deceased man at the center of a sex trafficking ring that offered underage girls to VIPs.

Krauss, 71, told The Arizona Republic, part of the USA TODAY Network, on Nov. 15 that he has no memory of such an email and never traveled abroad on Epsteins jet.

I have never hidden the fact that I knew Jeffrey Epstein and interacted with him on several occasions, usually to attend salons with interesting speakers, or scientific meetings, Krauss said in an email. During that time (we) often discussed the world, science, and politics. Jeffrey had, I believe, similar relationships with numerous other well-known scientists, because he was fascinated by science.

The newly released Epstein emails include exchanges between him and Krauss complaining about cuts to science programs under President Donald Trump.

But they also show that Krauss received advice on how to handle ASUs investigation of the Australia matter from Ken Starr, the independent counsel who investigated former President Bill Clintons sexual involvement with White House intern Monica Lewinsky.

Krauss also implies that he voluntarily stepped back from at least one of his high-profile duties as the misconduct allegations against him became known because the alternative was worse.

Nothing in the Krauss-related emails suggests the tenured professor had anything to do with the matters that sent Epsteins girlfriend Ghislaine Maxwell to prison and swirled over him until he died in a New York jail in 2019.

None of the communications with Epstein relate in any way to the horrendous crimes he was accused of in 2019. I was as shocked as the rest of the world when he was arrested, Krauss said in an emailed response to questions.

Epstein records have surprising leads

The correspondence with Krauss, a world-renowned particle physicist and prominent atheist, is an example of the wide circle of politicians, business leaders and academics connected to Epstein.

The late Sen. John McCain, R-Arizona, pops up 40 times in the latest batch of emails, for example, though only in benign conversations, such as his interest in poetry and his 2008 presidential run.

By contrast, the Krauss emails illustrate a relationship with Epstein beyond the $250,000 that an Epstein-run foundation invested over seven years in his Origins Project, a nonprofit organization about the cosmos.

It shows a friendship with Epstein still active a decade after Epstein had been convicted in 2008 in Florida of procuring a child for prostitution and spent a year in prison.

Krauss became a best-selling author for his book The Physics of Star Trek, which vaulted him into the realm of the most prominent scientists in the nation. He left Case Western Reserve University to join ASU in 2008 in a move heralded by ASU President Michael Crow.

Krauss spent a decade with ASU and founded the Origins Project that brought some of the most prominent minds in science, such as Stephen Hawking and Richard Dawkins, to discuss the beginning of life and the universe.

Shortly before the email he sent to Epstein about the canceled trip in Germany, he announced ASU would not renew his appointment as director of the Origins program.

A spokesperson for ASU said Krauss chose to retire in 2019 while the review was in progress.

By the time of his contentious retirement from ASU, Krauss had faced complaints of sexual misconduct at two other schools, according to a February 2018 story by BuzzFeed.

American, British protesters tie Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein Anti-Trump demonstrators near the U.S. Capitol, protest issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S. Sept. 2, 2025.

Case Western, where he taught before ASU, and the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics in Waterloo, Ontario, where he once spoke, restricted his presence in response to complaints, the news site reported.

The Epstein emails reveal the way Krauss responded to inquiries about the Australia accusation, with reporters and ASU.

Australia incident occurred during a selfie

The Australia incident happened Nov. 26, 2016, when Krauss appeared in Melbourne as a featured speaker for the Australian Skeptics National Convention.

ASU paid for Krauss travel from Canberra to Melbourne and for three days of per diem reimbursements during that portion of his trip to Australia. ASU later described him as a representative of the university while he was there.

Melanie Thomson, a Melbourne microbiologist who was another invited speaker to the event, told BuzzFeed that an Australian astronomer warned her that sexual misconduct allegations trailed Krauss.

So I was like a watchdog, making sure that nothing untoward happened, Thomson told BuzzFeed. A friend of hers at the convention asked Krauss to join her in a selfie picture. Thats when, Thomson said, she saw Krauss grab the womans breast.

Krauss denied touching the woman and denied telling her not to post the resulting photo with his hand coming over the females shoulder.

Months later, when asked about the position of his hand during the photo, Krauss told ASU, perhaps shed begun to lose her balance while taking the photograph and hed touched her arm to help steady her.

Also, he said he might have put his hand up to protect his eyes from the expected camera flash.

Bill Clinton investigator weighs in

ASUs investigation began in July 2017, nine months after the incident.

In August 2017, Epstein solicited legal advice from Starr about how Krauss should handle ASUs inquiry into the Australia complaint.

Not a good environment nowadays, Epstein said to Starr.

Starr, who by then had stepped down as president and chancellor of Baylor University over his mishandling of sexual assault reports at the school, emphatically seemed to advise against Krauss signing an acknowledgement of the complaint.

Krauss told The Republic that happened at a time, I sought out advice from essentially everyone I knew when false third-party allegations about me were circulated in the press.

A few months later, in December 2017, Krauss shared his planned point-by-point response to Buzzfeed with Epstein, who offered advice on how the media would handle it.

If they find you are right, they will leave (that part) out. and only go with the conflicted, Epstein wrote.

With new information, ASU looks again

Not long after the BuzzFeed story was published in February 2018, ASU reopened its probe. Krauss was placed on paid leave, and he resigned as chairman of the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists, known for its Doomsday Clock, which warns of the impending perils of human-made catastrophes such as global warming and nuclear holocaust.

Before it was announced, Krauss told Epstein.

I am going to take a voluntary leave as Chair of the Board, allowing me and them to make nice statements about me and how the board appreciates me, has never had a complaint, how professional I am, and how they hope I will return after this has subsided. The alternative was worse.

Yikes, Epstein responded.

Krauss told The Republic in his email that the Australia complaint lacked evidence.

I did learn, however, that that individual never reported a complaint, apparently asked (Thomson) not to make a complaint, and didnt later substantiate the claim.

ASUs second probe found the accusation credible.

Thomsons friend declined to talk with ASU investigators the first time. She did the second time.

ASUs report said the woman said Krauss grabbed her and she immediately addressed it on the spot, to let him know that she was not okay with his action.

Two witnesses said they saw Krauss grope the woman, and two others said she described the experience that night in a way that was consistent with what others said they had seen.

Despite the incident, the woman told ASU, she did not feel victimized, felt it was a clumsy interpersonal interaction.

She told ASU she didnt want the matter reported and it did not merit the man losing his career.

ASUs four-page report on July 31, 2018, promised Thomson there would be responsive action.

Need a 'hitchhiker'Krauss asks Epstein

Shortly afterward, Krauss reached out to Epstein about the cancellation of one of his upcoming talks in Germany and included email correspondence with organizers there.

Krauss told the director of the German-American Institute that the Gottingen event had to be cancelled without elaborating. It left him without a plane ticket.

But in August 2018, Krauss described his frustrating German travel situation in starker language to Epstein and appealed for a ride, possibly on a personal jet.

In full, minus the obscenity, it said:

Hi.. so, here is the event I am still invited to give in Germany. It is Oct 19th. I was previously invited to give a major lecture in Heidelberg Oct 14 but they had to cancel it after the university determination re australia was publicized by the b----.

That air ticket, which they had paid (for), was about 5250 euros. There is a $900 cancellation fee, and they have agreed to let me keep the ticket if I pay them 4500 euros. I offered that to the other place but they only have $5K USD total, which includes the $4K fee they originally offered me.

I am going to check other tickets now, but wanted to know if you might be flying to europe around then and could take a hitchhiker. :)

Asked by The Republic whether he was insulting Thomson or her friend in the message, Krauss said, No idea, and have no memory of such an email.

The end for Krauss at ASU

Two days after the remaining German event was scheduled, Krauss announced his impending retirement from ASU to take effect in May 2019 after months of paid leave.

He maintained he had done nothing wrong and assailed an investigative process at ASU that he said didnt allow him to cross-examine witnesses, something ASU said was incorrect at the time.

To be clear, I have never harassed or assaulted anyone and have most certainly not exhibited gender discrimination in my professional dealings at the University or elsewhere, Krauss said.

Based on what has been reported to me by the University, none of my students, departmental staff, faculty colleagues, research colleagues and postdoctoral fellows, or participants in the Origins events I led over the past decade at ASU, has ever issued any allegations or complaints to the University regarding my behavior.

'I dont feel tarnished in any way by my relationship with Jeffrey'

Most of the Krauss-related emails illustrate a friendship that spanned Epsteins initial legal problems and the misconduct complaints against Krauss.

Krauss shared with Epstein his comments to the Daily Beast for a 2011 story defending Epstein.

If anything, the unfortunate period he suffered has caused him to really think about what he wants to do with his money and his time, and support knowledge, Krauss said at that time.

Jeffrey has surrounded himself with beautiful women and young women, but theyre not as young as the ones that were claimed. I dont feel tarnished in any way by my relationship with Jeffrey; I feel raised by it, he said.

And both men gave passing acknowledgement to the sexual misconduct allegations that had derailed their lives and others.

In an April 2018 email, Epstein sent Krauss the long list of expected participants in an upcoming Women in the World Summit, promising a power-packed agenda of remarkable female newsmakers sharing their stories of male misbehaviors.

Krauss responded, Lets do a men of the world conference. He then identified four men who faced allegations of sexual misconduct: Clinton, the actor Kevin Spacey, former Sen. Al Franken, D-Minnesota, and director Woody Allen.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Physicist asked Epstein's advice when accused of sexual misconduct
The Arizona state flag, featuring a copper star and rays of red and gold above a blue field, flies on a flagpole in Phoenix. Photo: Levi Meir Clancy / Unsplash

(The Center Square) - Arizona has lost out on billions of dollars in education funding due to mismanagement of its State Land Trust. That's according to a new report that points to valuable land going unused.

Common Sense Institute Arizona, a nonpartisan research organization, released a report Wednesday highlighting the lack of revenue being generated by the trust.

According to the report entitled "Building What Was Promised," the federal government set aside an estimated 11 million acres of land for Arizona to use when it became a state in 1912.

The federal government required Arizona to hold the land on behalf of certain beneficiaries," said Glenn Farley, CSI Arizonas director of policy and research and one of the report's three authors.

Out of the program's 11 million acres, 8 million are held for the benefit of Arizonas K-12 education system, the report noted.

This massive swath of land is roughly the size of Maryland, said Lorenzo Romero, a CSI Arizona education and economic development fellow. He and Zachary Milne are the report's other authors.

One of the requirements Arizona is supposed to meet with this land is to maintain these assets in perpetuity, Farley told The Center Square. He explained the State Land Trust makes its money through agricultural grazing leases and similar open land-use rights. He described this economic model as generating very little revenue.

The money Arizona collects from the land trust must be deposited into the Permanent Land Endowment Trust Fund, Farley said.

Arizona has kept 85% of the original land meant to help fund K-12 education, the report found.

The report said over the last 100 years, the State Land Trust has generated nearly $6 billion in revenue for K-12 schools. It added that the average annual return for the states K-12 beneficiaries is only $8.40 per acre annually.

Furthermore, the land currently set aside for education funding is worth an estimated $19 billion, the report noted.

Romero told The Center Square that between 33% and 45% of this land lies within 5 miles of Arizona's population centers. The report estimated there are 276,700 acres of unleased trust land within a 10-mile radius of Arizonas cities and towns.

This untapped land could build over 200,000 housing units, the report noted.

The land around Arizonas urban centers does have value, but it is going unused, Romero said.

If Arizona sells some of this land, it would allow more money to be put into PLETF, which earns between 7% and 8% of compound interest annually, he added.

PLETF is invested in a balanced portfolio of traditional financial assets, such as treasury and private bonds and private equities, Farley told The Center Square.

The research director noted PLETF is generating these returns with around one-fifth of the total assets, compared to the state land trust.

According to the report, if Arizona had implemented a PLETF-style fund at the beginning of its statehood, the State Land Trust meant to fund K-12 education would be worth $163 billion and would have distributed $140 billion to its beneficiaries.

The report also estimated that if Arizona sold the remaining land in its State Land Trust fund over the next 10 years, it would generate $18.5 billion in revenue and $55 billion in new economic activity.

In addition, the new economic activity would support the construction of 1 million new homes over the next two decades, according to the report.

Over the next 50 years, if the land were sold, it would generate another $65 billion in distributions to K-12 public schools and $5 billion in annual state and local tax revenue, the report noted.

However, for this to be possible, Arizona needs to revise some of the rules governing its State Land Trust program.

Arizona has some of the most restrictive laws in America regarding program management, Romero said.

Farley noted Arizona became a state during the height of the Progressive era in America.

The response from the government at the time was to limit Arizonas ability to manage its own trust, Farley said.

According to Farley, the result of these legal restrictions on Arizona has made the state overly conservative in using this land for fear of running afoul of these federal and constitutional requirements.

Romero said the highest and best use standard Arizona must follow for the sale of these lands needs to be reviewed to allow for greater flexibility.

To make it easier for Arizona to change standards regarding selling the State Land Trust programs land, it would take a combination of constitutional changes, state statutory changes and potential federal statutory changes, Farley noted.
At least five tourists have been killed by a snowstorm in the Torres del Paine National Park in southern Chiles Patagonia region, while four more who were missing have been found alive.

Two Mexicans, two Germans and one Briton were killed, according to Jose Ruiz Pivcevic, the presidential delegate of Chiles southernmost Magallanes region. Authorities are working to retrieve the bodies.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric extended his condolences to the victims loved ones.

Know that you have the full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times, he posted to X.

Two dozen first responders, including teams from the national police and the army have been deployed to the region to help with rescue and recovery efforts, which have been made harder by the harsh weather conditions.

In addition to the intense snowfall, the area has seen winds of up to 190 kilometers per hour (about 118mph), according to Boric.

Parts of the national park have been closed, authorities said.

Chiles National Forest Corporation said it had received the first missing persons report on Monday. One person was evacuated later that day.

Torres del Paine mayor Anahi Cardenas told Chilean television that the tourists had been visiting the park without a tour guide.

She described the mountain circuit as complex but said the tragedy was likely due to the weather conditions.

Reuters reported that Guillermo Ruiz, the presidential delegate for Chiles southern province of Ultima Esperanza, said the tourists had become lost near the parks Los Perros camp, an area reachable only by a four- to five-hour trek from the closest accessible point by vehicle.

The UK foreign office told CNN it was in contact with the local authorities following an incident in Chile.

Torres del Paine National Park is home to miles-long glaciers, turquoise-blue lakes, towering granite peaks, waterfalls and rare wildlife. The park is known for its trekking, which attracts tourists from all over the world.

UNESCO recognizes the park as a biosphere reserve, a site that helps with conservation and sustainability research.

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A massive volley of Russian missiles and drones killed at least 25 people  including two children  across Ukraine overnight in one of the biggest aerial attacks since Moscow launched its full-scale war in February 2022.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russia launched 476 drones and 48 cruise and ballistic missiles at his country. Ukraine's military said six or seven missiles and nearly three dozen drones made it past Ukraine's air defenses.

Explosions and fires were reported close to the front lines around the eastern city of Kharkiv, but also far from the front, in the western city of Lviv, which is close to Ukraine's border with NATO-member Poland.

Most of the deaths were in the western city of Ternopil, where the Interior Ministry said two high-rise apartment blocks and energy facilities were hit. Many of Ukraine's regions reported some loss of power, as temperatures plunge and the need for heat becomes a matter of life and death.

Zelenskyy, on a visit to Turkey, said Russia's latest attack showed the need for further international pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Ukrainian rescue personnel operate at the site of a heavily damaged residential building following Russian strikes on the city of Ternopil, in western Ukraine, Nov. 19, 2025, amid the Russian invasion of Ukraine. / Credit: YURIY DYACHYSHYN/AFP/Getty

"Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia is insufficient," Zelenskyy wrote in a social media post.

Zelenskyy said he would ask Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to help increase Russia's diplomatic isolation.

"Foremost, we will discuss maximum capabilities to ensure that Ukraine achieves a just peace," he said, adding that his administration also saw "some positions and signals from the United States, well, let's see tomorrow."

Zelenskyy didn't offer any further context on that statement, but new U.S. sanctions targeting Russia's oil industry, aimed at forcing Putin to negotiate, are due to take effect Friday.

A U.S. official also confirmed to CBS News that Army Secretary Dan Driscoll was in Ukraine on Wednesday as part of a delegation trying to restart peace talks.

Zelenskyy was in Turkey on Wednesday following stops in Greece, France and Spain earlier in the week, where he sought further support for his country's defense efforts. Turkey has maintained stable ties with both Russia and the U.S. throughout the war in Ukraine.

Zelenskyy may be hoping that Erdogan can use those ties to help bring Putin back to the table for talks on a lasting peace agreement.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Tuesday there were no immediate plans for Putin to engage as the war grinds into its fourth winter, but he added that the Russian leader was "of course open to a conversation"  a sentiment voiced many times since the invasion began.

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British Defense Secretary John Healey speaks in Downing Street on Wednesday, next to a screen showing the Yantar, a Russian spy ship. - Stefan Rousseau/Pool/AFP/Getty Images

A Russian spy ship has entered British waters and directed lasers at military pilots, Britains defense secretary said Wednesday, as he warned that the country was facing a new era of threat from hostile actors.

During a speech in London, John Healey said the Yantar spy ship was currently on the edge of British waters, north of Scotland, and that the ship was designed for gathering intelligence and mapping Britains undersea cables.

He said a Royal Air Force (RAF) Poseidon-8 military plane had been deployed to track this vessels every move and that its pilots said they were targeted by lasers.

That Russian action is deeply dangerous, Healey said. My message to Russia and to (President Vladimir) Putin is this: We see you, we know what youre doing, and if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

Russias embassy in London responded angrily to what it called the latest provocative statements from Healey and claimed that the Yantar was an oceanographic research vessel operating in international waters. In a statement, the embassy denied targeting Britains underwater communications or undermining its security.

Londons Russophobic course and the whipping up of militaristic hysteria are contributing to the further degradation of European security, creating the conditions for new dangerous situations, the embassy said.

The Yantar has entered Britains exclusive economic zone, which extends up to 200 nautical miles (about 230 miles) offshore, but the ship has stayed on the edge of the countrys territorial waters, defined as stretching 12 nautical miles (13.8 miles) from the coast, Britains PA Media news agency reported.

Healey said Russias actions would not deter Britain from supporting Ukraine and that the government would continue to be vigilant  just as we have been about incursions into NATO airspace, just as we are being now in terms of identifying the Russian spy ship in UK waters and just as we have continued to be in response to sabotage threats that we have seen across many different European countries as well.

Healeys extraordinary announcement marked the second time this year that Britain has called out the activities of the Yantar. The government says the ship maps the undersea cables used by Britain and its NATO allies for energy and communications and is part of Russias secretive deep-sea research unit known as GUGI. But Healey said this is the first time that Russia has directly aimed lasers at British military aircraft.

We take it extremely seriously, he said. Ive changed the navys rules of engagement so that we can follow more closely, monitor more closely, the activities of the Yantar when its in our wider waters. The defense secretary stressed that Britain has military options ready, should the Yantar change course.

Britain sees Yantars latest incursion into waters of the UKs economic zone as part of a pattern of increasingly reckless Russian forays into NATO territory, as Moscow seeks to show Europe that there are costs for backing Ukraine.

In recent months, drones have repeatedly crossed from Russia into NATOs airspace, alongside other acts of sabotage. This week, Polish officials blamed Russia for an explosion on a key rail track from Poland to Ukraine, calling it an unprecedented act of sabotage. Overnight into Wednesday, NATO once again scrambled fighter jets over Poland and Romania after Russian airstrikes struck western Ukraine.

This is a new era of threat, Healey said.

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Sir David Davis says lawyers acting for the SAS Regimental Association have sent a pre-action letter to the NI secretary of state [Getty Images]

A group which represents past and present Special Air Service (SAS) soldiers is threatening legal action over the government's legislation to deal with the legacy of the Northern Ireland troubles.

Conservative MP Sir David Davis described the move as unprecedented in the history of the British Army.

Speaking during Prime Minister's Questions, he claimed lawyers acting for the SAS Regimental Association have sent a pre-action letter to Secretary of State Hilary Benn.

The Northern Ireland Office has been contacted for comment.

Labour's legislation, agreed as part of a framework with the Irish Government, will put in place a reformed Legacy Commission with enhanced powers.

The Conservative Party and others are concerned it will lead to more investigations of military veterans.

The bill aims to repeal the existing Legacy Act, which included a conditional immunity clause, later found unlawful by the Northern Ireland courts.

Davis claimed the Northern Ireland Troubles Bill, which had its second reading in Parliament on Tuesday, is affecting morale in the SAS, and its ability to recruit and retain soldiers.

He said: "The Prime Minister knows that last week nine four-star generals made plain the bill is doing harm to the British Army already.

"Most acute damage is being felt by the Special Air Service.

"As a result, lawyers for the SAS Regimental Association have sent a letter before action to the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.

"I know of no precedent for this in the entire history of the British Army, and ... it reflects how important it is."

He went on: "Can I make a plea to the prime minister?

"Will he involve himself personally to make sure that 60, 70, 80-year-old soldiers, who have carried out actions which most of us would view as heroic, are not persecuted in the coming years, because now it's a matter not of national security, but of national honour."

Sir Keir told MPs that the commission would only go over old cases if there were "compelling reasons" [Getty Images]

Labour has said its legacy plans will include "six protections" for veterans.

Sir Keir told MPs that the commission would only go over old cases if there were "compelling reasons".

He continued: "Can I thank him for his question and reassure him on the protections that he seeks for veterans? Because it is a very important issue, and he's continually and rightly raised it.

"There will be protection from repeat investigations so the commission doesn't go over old ground without compelling reasons.

"There will be a protection from cold calling, and protection in old age, so that elderly veterans are respected.

"Those who do contribute to the legacy process will have a right to anonymity, a right to stay at home to give evidence remotely, and a right to be heard through the commission.

"That is the work that we're doing and I'm happy to discuss it further with him."
Jennifer Aniston, Teyana Taylor, Jessie Buckley, more honored at Elle's Women in Hollywood Flood warnings and rainstorms didnt stop the stars from putting on their best red carpet glam to celebrate women in Hollywood. On Thursday, Nov. 17, ELLEs Editor-in-Chief, Nina Garcia, hosted its annual Women in Hollywood event, bringing together some of the industrys biggest stars all under the Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles roof. The 2025 class included Jessie Buckley, Emily Blunt, Wunmi Mosaku, Teyana Taylor, Jennifer Aniston, Jayme Lawson, Renate Reinsve and Rose Byrne (Sinners actress Hailee Steinfeld was also an honoree but skipped out the event because she caught a bug). Presenters of the nights honors included Adam Sandler, Dwayne The Rock Johnson, Kerry Washington (subbing in for Kevin Hart), Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coobler, Sebastian Stan, Chloe Zhao and Regina Hall. But before the heartfelt speeches, there were a lot of red carpet looks to fawn over  scroll through for more moments from the night, including all the fashion.

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif.  Ongoing rainstorms and flood warnings didn't deter a room full of stars from showing up to celebrate the powerful and multifaceted women in Hollywood fighting for a more equitable industry.

Or as filmmaker Ryan Coogler said of the women of "Sinners" being honored at ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood, "Without y'all, we don't have anything."

"Sinners," starring Michael B. Jordan, pulling double duty as twins Smoke and Stack, follows the brothers' return home from Chicago in 1930s Mississippi as they buy a sawmill to set up a juke joint. Their goal is to fill it with whiskey and Irish beer, paying customers, and plenty of blues. What they didn't expect was an invasion of vampires.

Released earlier this spring, the vampy film also stars actresses Hailee Steinfeld (Mary), Jayme Lawson (Pearline) and Wunmi Mosaku (Annie). The three were honored Thursday, Nov. 18, at the Four Seasons Hotel for their indelible work in "Sinners," which "doesn't move forward without the women," Coogler said onstage. "They are truth-tellers, and perhaps more importantly, they are the beating heart of the story  This movie was powered by women."

Michael B. Jordan and Ryan Coogler speak onstage during ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood Celebration on Nov. 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.

Hailee Steinfeld 'under the weather,' skips out on ELLE's Women in Hollywood

The "Creed" actor, who seemingly just dropped in to introduce the award, joined Coogler onstage to introduce Lawson and Mosaku.

Of Steinfeld's absence on Thursday night, Jordan said, "She caught a little bug; she's feeling under the weather, so she couldn't be here with us tonight."

"'Sinners' gave Hailee the opportunity to dive into her own family's history, and she didn't hold back," Jordan said of Steinfeld (she stars as Mary, a white-passing woman in the Mississippi South). "She asked big questions about her maternal grandfather's identity as a half-Filipino, half-Black man. That theme of inheritance is still in every frame of 'Sinners.' And Hailee, we love you, and we honor you for doing that story justice."

Inside ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood: Adam Sandler says he's happy Jennifer Aniston and new love Jim Curtis found 'each other'

Honorees Jayme Lawson and Wunmi Mosaku on Nov. 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.

Michael B. Jordan calls Wunmi Mosaku the 'UK's best kept secret for years'

Mosaku, the Nigerian British actress who has previously starred in "Lovecraft Country," was dubbed the UK's "best kept secret for years" by Jordan.

"As [Mosaku] once said, the scariest part of this movie is the feeling that no matter how far you've gone, you still might be exactly where you started," Jordan said in his remarks. "Wunmi, thank you for your gentle wisdom, your love, your support. Tonight, we honor you  and always."

Coogler then took the mic to honor Lawson, thanking her for her artristry and adding that, "for us, you were never too much. You were always enough."

Honorees Jayme Lawson and Wunmi Mosaku speak onstage during ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood on Nov. 17, 2025.

Lawson and Mosaku then took the stage and, in their shared speech, thanked Coogler for the empowering space he created on set for them to be their full selves as actresses and as the characters they embodied onscreen.

"Every woman in this room knows what it feels like to crave as an artist, but oftentimes not feel full," Lawson, visibly emotional onstage, said. "So not only did Ryan fill our appetites, but he also gifted us each other to each other. My sisters. When you find your sisters in this industry, you hold on for dear life, and you do not dare let them go."

Addressing Coogler directly from the stage, Mosaku said she was "grateful for the women who inspire and love you so deeply that you champion them by representing them in all their complexities and their humanity on and off the camera."

Ryan Coogler, Jayme Lawson, and Zinzi Coogler attend ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood Celebration on Nov. 17, 2025, in Los Angeles.

At the top of the three-hour program, Elle editor-in-chief Nina Garcia said in her opening remarks that, "At the first events, merely spotlighting the work of women in the industry felt like something new. But over the years, this event has become a forum for candid and meaningful reflection."

"For three decades, this event has witnessed Hollywood history  and even made some of its own," the Colombian magazine editor added. "I feel that legacy in the room tonight as I look out on this spectacular crowd."

The night also celebrated Irish actress and "Hamnet" star Jessie Buckley, "One Battle After Another" stars Teyana Taylor and Chase Infiniti, "If I Had Legs I'd Kick You" star Rose Byrne, "Sentimental Value" Norwegian actress Renate Reinsve and "The Smashing Machine" star Emily Blunt.

What you didn't see at Elle's Women in Hollywood

Before the festivities officially began, stars (carefully) made their way from the red carpet to the Four Seasons Hotel ballroom. Aniston walked gingerly toward the ballroom to find her seat to avoid slipping on the wet floor as water made its way inside the hotel from the pouring rain outside.

Valet employees clad in yellow rain coats and hotel staff, tasked with mopping and drying the floor to make sure no A-lister fell on their watch, were the real unsung heroes of the night.

Ryan Coogler, Dwayne Johnson, Benny Safdie and Emily Blunt attend ELLE's 2025 Women in Hollywood celebration on Nov. 17, 2025.

It took some time for the "Sinners" director and his partner in film producing, wife Zinzi Evans, to make their way to their table inside the hotel ballroom, as folks continued to stop them to give them their flowers for the success of the film.

Inside the ballroom, stars took a minute to grab their seats as they mingled with each other, finished their drinks and posed for photos together. The night also saw a few surprises as Kerry Washington rushed from the mid-Wilshire premiere of Netflix's "Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery" at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to Beverly Hills.

She stepped in to present Taylor with her Elle Women in Hollywood honor after Kevin Hart could no longer make it due to scheduling conflicts with filming.

Contributing: Brian Truitt, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ryan Coogler of 'Sinners' says without women 'we don't have anything'
Federal authorities may be investigating the stepsibling of the Florida high school cheerleader whose lifeless body was found wrapped in a blanket and stuffed under a bed on a Carnival cruise ship, a shocking new court filing revealed.

The potential federal probe comes nearly two weeks after Anna Kepner, 18, was discovered dead in her cabin on Nov. 7 during a six-day Caribbean cruise with her family aboard the Carnival Horizon.

In an emergency motion first obtained by The Daily Mail that was filed Monday in Brevard County, Kepners stepmom, Shauntel Hudson, requested extra time to respond to filings tied to her 2024 divorce from her ex-husband, citing an extremely sensitive and severe circumstance.

Anna Kepners stepsibling may be under investigation for her mysterious death aboard the Carnival Horizon on Nov. 7. @anna.kepner16/Instagram

Currently there is an investigation being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (F.B.I.) arising out of the sudden death of eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner, the filing states, noting that Hudson and her children were all on the cruise with the teen and her father, Christopher, when she was found dead.

The respondent has been advised through discussions with the FBI investigators and her attorneys, that a criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children of this instant action, the filing continued, according to ABC News.

Hudson, a mother of three who recently married Kepners father, asked that the proceedings be postponed until the criminal investigation has concluded, cautioning that her testimony could be prejudicial to both her and her adolescent child while the probe continues.

Anna Kepner with her family, who were all together when she was found dead. Shauntel Kepner / Facebook

Hudson could not be reached for comment.

The FBI and her ex-husband did not immediately respond to The Posts request for comment.

Kepner  affectionately nicknamed Anna Banana by her family  was wrapped in a blanket, covered in life jackets, and shoved underneath a bed when she was found dead, sources told the Daily Mail.

The gymnast and cheerleader, who was set to graduate from Temple Christian School in Titusville in May, had told family members at dinner the night before that she was not feeling well and went back to her room, the sources said.

The Miami-Dade County medical examiner lists her time of death as 11:17 a.m. Nov. 7, but does not say how she died. Instagram/@anna.kepner16

But the next morning, she was nowhere to be found when her family gathered for breakfast.

A desperate search swept the massive ship, which can carry nearly 4,000 passengers, until a maid stumbled upon Kepners body in her cabin around 11 a.m., prompting the ship to abruptly change course for the Port of Miami, Florida.

The Miami-Dade County medical examiner lists her time of death as 11:17 a.m. Nov. 7, but does not say how she died.

The FBI is leading the investigation because the death happened on international waters. Jeffrey Greenberg/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

I have no idea what is going on right now, her grieving father, Christopher Kepner, told the outlet last week, adding that the heartbroken family is still in the dark over what happened.

We are just trying to sit still and wait for answers.

The FBI is handling the investigation since the bubbly teen died in international waters, but officials have offered frustratingly few details about how she died.
A 26-year-old woman was torched by a madman on a Chicago train Monday night -- more than a week after another straphanger was stabbed in the chest at another Windy City station, according to police.

A 26-year-old woman was torched by a madman on a Chicago train Monday night  more than a week after another straphanger was stabbed in the chest at Windy City station, according to police.

The 45-year-old assailant allegedly doused the woman with a liquid and set her ablaze after the two got into a heated argument aboard a Chicago Transit Authority Blue Line train near Clark and Lake streets in the Loop around 9:25 p.m., the Chicago Police Department said, according to multiple reports.

The train rolled to a stop at the Clark/Lake Station and the unidentified attacker bolted, while the badly burnt straphanger staggered out of the car and collapsed  with the flames already out by the time police arrived, NBC 5 Chicago reported.

The 45-year-old assailant allegedly doused the female victim with liquid and set her ablaze on a CTA Blue Line train near Clark and Lake streets Monday night. Bloomberg via Getty Images

The victim was rushed to Stroger Hospital in critical condition, with severe burns covering her body.

Just seeing her lying on the ground and she was kind of hyperventilating and in a lot of pain, one horrified witness told FOX 32 Chicago.

You could tell she was in really bad shape. All the medics were down there and there was a big turnout as far as responders and so forth.

The victim was rushed to Stroger Hospital in critical condition. TNS

The Blue Line was reportedly shut down for hours after the attack, though service resumed normally by Tuesday morning.

A person of interest was taken into custody Tuesday afternoon and the investigation remains ongoing, police said, NBC reported.

A 27-year-old woman was stabbed by a lunatic at a Chicago train station on Nov. 10. Chicago Police Department

The fiery assault comes more than a week after a knife-wielding lunatic pulled a large blade from his backpack and plunged it into the chest of a 27 year-old woman sitting on a bench at the UIC-Halsted Blue Line platform near the University of Illinois Chicago on Nov. 10, according to police.

The woman sustained a laceration to the chest and was taken to a nearby hospital.

Zarutska was killed in an unprovoked attack on the Lynx Blue Line train in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Aug. 22. Charlotte CATS

The brute ran off, and it appears he still remains at large.

The recent spate of commuter attacks comes nearly three months after 34-year-old Decarlos Brown Jr. allegedly fatally stabbed Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutksa with a pocket knife in an unprovoked attack aboard the Lynx Blue Line train in Charlotte, North Carolina, on Aug. 22.

Decarlos Brown Jr. allegedly murdered Ukrainian refugee, Iryna Zarutska on Charlottes light rail in August. via REUTERS

Brown, a homeless schizophrenic, was swiftly arrested and indicted last month for violence against a railroad carrier and mass transportation system resulting in death.

The federal charges make the disturbed felon eligible for the death penalty.
Congressional Lawmakers Continue Budget Reconciliation Process On The Hill (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The House of Representatives rejected a Republican-led effort to strip Democratic U.S. Virgin Islands delegate Stacey Plaskett of her prime spot on the House Intelligence Committee Tuesday evening, after a splinter group of Republicans joined Democrats to defeat the measure.

Lawmakers voted 209 to 214 against formally censuring Plaskett, a nonvoting delegate, after recently revealed text messages showed she consulted the late convicted sex predator Jeffrey Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing. Three Republicans  Reps. Lance Gooden of Texas, Don Bacon of Nebraska and Dave Joyce of Ohio  joined Democrats to tank the resolution reprimanding Plaskett.(RELATED: Quick Im Up Next: Dem Del. Plaskett Caught Texting Epstein To Help Steer Questioning During Congressional Hearing)

Three additional GOP lawmakers voted present: Reps. Jay Obernolte of California, Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania and Andrew Garbarino of New York. Four Republicans did not vote.

The censure resolution, offered by Republican South Carolina Rep. Ralph Norman, was drafted in response to recently unearthed texts between Plaskett and Epstein and released as part of a House Oversight Committee document dump last week. The messages appeared to show Plaskett consulting Epstein for advice about what to ask former Trump lawyer Michael Cohen, who was testifying during the February 2019 hearing.

Several conservative GOP lawmakers raged at their Republican colleagues for helping defeat the resolution.

I am totally disgusted with this bunch of losers, Republican Tennessee Rep. Tim Burchett wrote on X.

A handful of Republicans helped defeat resolutions to censure Democratic Reps. LaMonica McIver of New Jersey and Illhan Omar of Minnesota earlier this year.

(L-R) US Representatives Chip Roy, Republican from Texas, Ralph Norman, Republican from South Carolina, and Tim Burchett, Republican from Tennessee, speak with each other in the House Chamber at the US Capitol in Washington, DC, on January 3, 2025. (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT / AFP) (Photo by ROBERTO SCHMIDT/AFP via Getty Images)

Plaskett attempted to defend herself by characterizing Epstein, whose primary residence was the U.S. Virgin Islands, as a normal interaction with a constituent. Epstein was notably a convicted sex offender by 2008 but only spent 13 months in a county jail due to a controversial plea deal.

Let me tell you something. I dont need to get advice on how to question anybody from any individual. I have been a lawyer for 30 years, Plaskett said on the House floor Tuesday. I have sought information from confidential informants, from murderers, from other individuals, because I want the truth, not because I need them to tell me what to say.

Plaskett previously worked for the Department of Justice before starting a career in Congress in January 2015.

In sporadic texts during the hearing, Epstein mentioned former Trump executive assistant, Rhona Graff, stating Cohen brought up RONA [sic]  keeper of the secrets.

RONA?? Plaskett responded. Quick Im up next is that an acronym, she asked.

Epstein then clarified, Thats [sic] his assistant.

The late convicted sex predator subsequently told Plaskett Good work after she concluded her questioning of Cohen.

Norman, a member of the House Freedom Caucus, and other members of the conservative group argued that Plasketts decision to collaborate with Epstein demands a formal rebuke by the lower chamber.

Using the input of a sex offender to shape questions in an official hearing is UNACCEPTABLE and cannot go unaddressed, Norman wrote on X.

Delegate Plasketts relationship with Epstein stands in stark contrast to the public image she has curated for herself as a defender of justice and accountability while secretly collaborating with an individual whose crimes against vulnerable women and children shocked the nation, the resolution reads in part.

Norman, a prominent fiscal hawk, is running in a crowded primary for South Carolina governor during next years midterm elections.

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(WGHP)  A local organization serving the immigrant and migrant community has paused all events in the wake of border patrol agents in the state.

FaithAction International offers immigration consulting and community outreach to immigrants and migrants, helping them navigate a new home and providing resources throughout the process.

People who work at the organization say theres a palpable concern about their clients with the presence of agents in the state.

Sometimes, we kind of take it for granted that we could just go to the grocery store, get some food or get some gas. Many of the families that we serve, obviously, right now are feeling that fear, Jasiel Bernal said.

Jasiel Bernal is the education, advocacy, and bridge-building manager at FaithAction International.

The organization usually hosts an annual multicultural Thanksgiving, where people bring a dish representing their heritage to forge new friendships in a new home.

This event is completely free and open to anyone in the community. We normally have it in a safe place, like a church or congregation, so that families feel welcomed. And theres live performances. Theres music. Theres delicious food  Its just a night for families to kind of create new friendships, Bernal said.

In the wake of confirmed border patrol presence in Charlotte and Raleigh, FaithAction International workers say they are preparing for sightings in the triad.

We heard everything that was going on in Charlotte last week and this week as well, and we decided as a team that it wasnt the best idea to have families expose themselves more than they need to. A lot of families that we do serve have limited status or no status here in the United States, Bernal said.

Maricruz Hernandez is the community engagement manager at FaithAction International.

She says their office has had fewer visitors than usual in the days following the arrests in Charlotte. She says the community is hyperaware of the arrests, some using force, because many have been filmed and put on social media or news sites.

We can see the impact in other places  Mainly schools  where students usually attend every day. Theyre not really going right now. And then also the information of the community on social media. Its just like  We dont want to expose ourselves. Were afraid as well, Hernandez said.

Hernandez says, unfortunately, its not just the multicultural Thanksgiving planned for Nov. 22 that has been cancelled.

For the rest of the year, we have canceled all events. Also, our toy drive will not be happening this Dec. 12  To make sure that were keeping all families safe throughout the year, we just have paused everything, and well come back together in January to see how things are looking for our families. I feel like we will have much more feedback from our families by then as well, Hernandez said.

For now, FaithAction International is still planning to deliver Thanksgiving food boxes to families at home, which they would have given out at the dinner event, and they are working to find ways to still put on a toy drive through collection and delivery as opposed to a gathering.

We will also be putting in those boxes immigration lawyer information for the families, as well as brochure cards for the families and other resources that they can reach out so that they have all their information with them, Hernandez said.

Assistant Homeland Security Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement that the effort launched in Charlotte is to protect the public from dangerous criminal offenders who are in the country unlawfully.

FaithAction International says they will continue to serve people with home visits and answer their questions as best they can in a time of uncertainty.

And above all, just reminding families that you know you have rights. Regardless of what your immigration status may be, you have rights as an individual, as a human being, and we all deserve to be treated as such, Bernal said.

FaithAction International workers say they dont want to create unnecessary fear through rumors and direct people to consult community resources like Siembra NC and news stations for confirmed border patrol presence.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX8 WGHP.
Military-style Humvees are parked along the border wall in Brownsville, Texas, where Britania Uriostegui Rios was deported to Mexico. - Michael Gonzalez/Getty Images

The Trump administration admitted it inadvertently deported a transgender woman to Mexico this month after a judge ordered she not be removed to the country over fears she may be tortured or violently persecuted.

The government has said it will allow Britania Uriostegui Rios, a Mexican national, to return to the US if she is able to make it to the border. Once she has returned, she will be placed back in ICE custody while the administration tries to deport her to a different country, court documents show.

The case marks the latest example of the Trump administration wrongfully removing someone protected by court orders or special status as it works to carry out the presidents goal of a history-making mass deportation program. Uriostegui Rios is at least the fifth such case this year, including the administrations dramatic legal showdown over the removal  and eventual return  of Salvadoran man Kilmar Abrego Garcia.

Uriostegui Rioss attorneys are suing the administration and demanding that she not be required to return to federal custody once she is back in the US  if she happens to make it to a port of entry without dying.

Mexico is one of the deadliest countries in the world for transgender people, according to the Trans Murder Monitoring Project. Though the full scope of risk to transgender people in Mexico is unclear, journalists and advocacy groups have documented pervasive  and often fatal  violence.

Since entering the US in 2003, Uriostegui Rios has racked up a lengthy criminal history that includes convictions for disorderly conduct, sexual solicitation and DUI, according to court filings from a Department of Homeland Security official.

An immigration judge ordered her deportation in March after she was convicted of assault with a deadly weapon in Las Vegas.

But the judge simultaneously blocked the government from removing Uriostegui Rios to her native Mexico, finding there was a likelihood she could face torture there.

Even so, Uriostegui Rios was flown from a detention center in Louisiana to Texas on November 11, where her attorneys say she was taken across the border to Mexico without money, her daily medications or a cell phone. She was able to borrow a phone and call her attorneys, who say they were not notified Uriostegui Rios had been deported.

ICE confirmed that your client was removed to Mexico inadvertently, Department of Justice attorney Shannon Smitherman wrote in an email filed in court. The next day, she wrote, ICE stands ready to remedy the inadvertent removal by allowing your client to voluntarily reenter the United States if your client wishes to do so.

DHS Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement to CNN that Uriostegui Rios was removed from the US and will be brought back to the US. At the same time, the agency will seek another country for deportation.

The end result will be the same - Rios will not be able to remain in the US and will be removed, McLaughlin said.

The White House has not responded to a request for comment.

Uriostegui Rios was being detained in a mens facility in Louisiana while the US government unsuccessfully tried to deport her to Costa Rica, Honduras and Nicaragua, according to court filings. In August, it began an effort to remove her to El Salvador, but the petition is still pending with Salvadoran officials.

It is unclear what fears Uriostegui Rios expressed to the judge, but the legal definition of torture is vast and includes state-sanctioned violence, cruel and inhumane treatment, and prolonged mental suffering out of fear for ones life.

When asked what threats Uriostegui Rios faces in Mexico, her attorney Bridget Pranzatelli told CNN she is a trans woman who has been through extreme trauma, including being sexually trafficked by cartels [at] as young as 12 years old.

As a result of these experiences, she has significant mental health issues, Pranzatelli said. There are many actors in Mexico who want to hurt her, which is why an immigration judge found it more likely than not that she would be tortured or killed if forced to return.

Since being sent to Mexico, Uriostegui Rios has been shielding her identity while sheltering with family out of fear they will discover she is trans and kick her out, one of her attorneys, Talia Lepson, wrote in a court filing.

If Uriostegui Rios is able to return to the US, her legal team is asking that she be released from ICE custody and be allowed to go home under a supervision order, saying the government cannot be trusted to follow the law or court orders.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
U.S. President Donald Trump delivers remarks at the McDonald's Impact Summit at the Westin Hotel in Washington, D.C., U.S., November 17, 2025. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. President Donald Trump said on Tuesday that he has nothing to do with his family business as the Trump Organization and a Saudi developer look to open the latest Trump hotel in the Maldives.

During a meeting with the Saudi crown prince in the Oval Office, Trump was asked about a possible conflict of interest for the Trump Organization to do business with Saudi Arabia while he is president.

Trump responded: "I have nothing to do with the family business. I have left, and I've devoted 100% of my energy. What my family does is fine. They do business all over.

"They've done very little with Saudi Arabia actually. I'm sure they could do a lot, and anything they've done has been very good," he added.

(Reporting by Steve Holland and Jasper Ward; editing by Costas Pitas)
A kiss is one of the most universal gestures in the world. Its a wordless way to show affection that transcends language, culture, and even species boundaries, conveying a great deal of meaning through that simple act. Whether its a romantic gesture, a form of foreplay, or a platonic way to express love and affection, kissing speaks volumes without making a sound.

But kisses are about more than just smooching; theyre historical and cultural symbols that carry a variety of meanings, as diverse as the people who give them. A kiss can seal a promise, greet a friend, show respect or admiration, offer comfort, or say goodbye. In some places, kisses are even considered sacred.

Whether shared between lovers, family, or friends, each type of kiss tells a story. They carry many meanings and help to strengthen the bond between the people involved, emphasizing emotional connection above all else. Well explore 20 types of kisses to reveal just how deeply this simple gesture is woven into the fabric of life.

#1 Shoulder Kiss

The shoulder kiss is an often-overlooked form of body kiss, but its one of the most sensual. It conveys quiet intimacy and is often a spontaneous, surprise kiss delivered from behind.



Theres a sense of easy contact and closeness between the people involved, and while its not tied to any specific tradition, it has become a symbol of modern romance.



This kiss is frequently seen both on and off-screen, and while it can be passionate and romantic, its not reserved only for lovers.



Actress Amy Adams received a shoulder kiss from Cate Blanchett on the 2024 TIFF red carpet, showing the power of spontaneity and playfulness in this gesture.

 Photo: angiescott.photography / Instagram

#2 French Kiss

The French kiss is a universal symbol of passion, an intimate act that turns a simple kiss on the lips into a full makeout session. This passionate kiss is open-mouthed, though the amount of tongue used varies between couples. Its name dates back to early 20th-century England, when French was associated with passion, sensuality, sex, and relationships.



In France, however, its called le baiser amoureux (the lovers kiss) and represents the passionate and romantic side of relationships without scandal.



While its a widely recognized gesture in the West, French kissing still raises eyebrows in more conservative cultures. Few iconic moments capture its true allure like Audrey Hepburn and George Peppards unforgettable deep kiss in Breakfast at Tiffanys.

 Photo: kisslovecouple / Instagram

#3 Cheek Kiss

A kiss on the cheek is one of the most versatile gestures in the world. Its friendly, polite, and gentle among friends and family, but also sweetly affectionate between romantic partners.



It has a long history as a gesture of goodwill, respect, and greeting, and remains a cornerstone of social etiquette today.



The number of cheek kisses given as a greeting varies by region: one in Colombia, two in France, and three in Belgium. Many people openly kiss strangers on the cheek, whereas others prefer to reserve this gesture for people they know.



World leaders often exchange cheek kisses at summits, transforming an age-old, affectionate gesture into a symbol of modern diplomacy.

 Photo: r/latebloomerlesbians

#4 Peck

Quick, simple, and sincere, a peck is the classic everyday kiss. Its not erotic or full of saliva; its just a quick kiss on the mouth that conveys warmth without turning into a full-blown PDA session.



It is one of the most traditional kisses with no fixed origin, though it is a similar gesture to the light pecking movement made by birds.



Universally accepted, the simple peck bridges the gap between platonic and romantic affection. Its a way of greeting or parting with your loved one, or simply showing them affection in front of others.



Its short, but meaningful. Movie fans will remember Bill Murray and Scarlett Johanssons goodbye kiss in Lost in Translation as a classic example of this heartfelt kiss.

 Photo: timelesstreeweddings / Instagram

#5 Hand Kiss

Once a symbol of chivalry, the hand kiss remains a graceful gesture of affection, admiration, and respect. Theres something sensual about one partner lifting the others hand and pressing a kiss to it, which creates a very different vibe from kissing your partners mouth.



However, it can also be a non-romantic gesture, depending on the context.



The hand-kissing tradition dates back to medieval Europe, when knights would greet noblewomen or pledge loyalty to their monarchs. Today, it is still used in formal and ceremonial situations just as often as it is between lovers.



Moviegoers will recognize it from films ranging from The Godfather to The Princess Bride.

 Photo: royaltyandprotocol / Instagram

#6 Air Kiss

The air kiss is the signature high-society greeting, exchanged without any physical contact. People pucker their lips as if to kiss but stop short of touching the other persons face, making it one of the most elegant kisses.



It originates from historic European elite circles where direct touch was discouraged.



Today, its as common on red carpets as it is between friends at brunch, turning the act of non-physical kissing into something more mainstream and playful.



Think of the effortless charm of socialites in shows like Sex and the City, where every mwah carries its own meaning.

 Photo: r/dualipa

#7 Angel Kiss

Like its namesake, the angel kiss is soft and protective. It is placed on the eyelids or near the eyes, providing gentle pressure to an area rich in nerve endings to evoke comfort and devotion.



Its name derives from birthmarks often seen on babies, caused by clusters of blood vessels in the eyelids, and believed to be the blessings of angel kisses.



Angel kisses imply purity, as if the giver is bestowing a guardian angel on the recipient.



Around the world, it is used as a romantic and family gesture, and was famously shown on-screen in Cameron Diaz's Christmas movie The Holiday.

 Photo: indianweddingkisses / Instagram

#8 Biting Kiss

The biting kiss isnt for everyone, sitting at the intersection of mischief and passion.



One partner bites the others lip while they kiss, giving a playful nibble or a gentle tug. Its a sensual gesture that sparks tension, often used as foreplay or just to have fun together.



Such actions date back to ancient art and literature, where love and pain were linked as metaphors.



Today, it has transcended the page and become a genuine gesture exchanged by modern partners to express their primal, uninhibited desire.



As seen in Basic Instinct, its a sultry, intense kiss that signals a deep connection.

 Photo: indianweddingkisses / Instagram

#9 Blown Kiss

There arent many actions that truly speak louder than words, but a blown kiss always makes its intention clear.



Like the air kiss, it shares affection without physical contact, but this one involves pressing fingertips to lips and sending the kiss to the other person.



Its origins date back to ancient Greece, where people blew kisses to win favor with the gods.



Today, its a playful farewell among friends, a sweet way to show affection to children, and a non-physical romantic gesture between partners.



Its unmistakable, but it achieved timeless icon status thanks to Marilyn Monroe, who was often seen blowing kisses to cameras or admirers.

 Photo: girlslifemag / Instagram

#10 Eskimo Kiss

The Eskimo kiss is one of the most tender and unique ways to show affection.



This kiss involves rubbing noses rather than meeting lips, though many couples add a quick peck on top. Its a close, familiar gesture that comes from a Western misunderstanding of Inuit tradition.



Kunik actually means pressing a nose to a cheek, not another nose.



However, other cultures have adopted the mistaken version as a way to express affection without intense kissing, and it can also be used in a platonic context.



It was a sweet moment in the movie Elf, used to show the innocence and charm of a kiss without lips.

 Photo: blacklove / Instagram

#11 Earlobe Kiss

Soft, teasing, and endlessly intimate, the earlobe kiss deepens physical bonds by targeting one of the bodys most sensitive areas.



Whether its as gentle as a whisper or more of a playful bite, its a gesture typically reserved for lovers in private moments.



Although they lack a formal history, earlobe kisses have long symbolized lust and seduction in Western romance.

In popular culture, it has become shorthand for intimacy, often appearing in romantic movie scenes or suggestive songs.



We only need to recall the earlobe kisses in the fight-turned-flirtation scenes in Mr. and Mrs. Smith to see how electric and romantic they can be.

 Photo: sarahpetersphotos / Instagram

#12 Forehead Kiss

The forehead kiss is a symbol of gentle affection, conveying I care more than I desire." When one person gently kisses another on the forehead, theyre showing support.



Evidence of forehead kissing dates back to Ancient Greece, where it was seen as a blessing, and it has also become an apologetic gesture in some Arabic cultures.



Today, it remains a universal gesture of love, crossing age, gender, and relationship boundaries to unify people.



Parents comforting children, lovers sharing affection, or friends showing they care, all commonly use the forehead kiss as a natural gesture.



It has appeared countless times in the media, perhaps most famously in the tragic romance Titanic.

 Photo: blackweddingmagic / Instagram

#13 Lizard Kiss

Similar to a French kiss but with a different technique, the lizard kiss is a modern, reserved technique reserved for the most passionate embraces.



It involves quick flicks of the tongue, mimicking a lizards darting movement, and can be as serious or playful as the couple prefers. Its definitely a modern novelty with no formal historical origins.



The lizard kiss captures the playful side of intimacy: spontaneous, teasing, and light-hearted.



Though it has been jokingly used in several movies, including Zoolander, which features a montage of exaggerated tongue kisses, it can also be sensual in the right circumstances.

 Photo: weird_kid007 / Instagram

#14 Nose Kiss

Theres nothing as sweet as a kiss on the nose, especially during a tender parent-child moment or in a romantic embrace with a partner.



Unlike the Eskimo kiss, which involves rubbing noses together, the typical nose kiss uses lips to express tenderness with a touch of humor. It has no historical roots, but has long appeared in art and photography as a symbol of innocence.



It captures affection without being intense and is less full-on than kissing on the mouth, which many couples prefer.



In La La Land, Ryan Gosling gives Emma Stone a gentle nose kiss, a subtle gesture that highlights their chemistry without going overboard.

 Photo: lettersfromyoutothem / Instagram

#15 Vampire Kiss

Intensely erotic and undeniably romantic, the vampire kiss is a type of neck kiss that includes a bite. Popularized by Gothic fiction and movies, vampire kisses involve passionately kissing someones neck, with varying levels of sucking and nibbling.



Sometimes, a mark is left behind, which is why it's called bloodsucking.



Vampire content is very popular with modern audiences, so different types of vampire kisses have appeared in Twilight and The Vampire Diaries.



It has come to symbolize forbidden love, temptation, and all-consuming passion in pop culture, while also increasing sexual intimacy between partners.

 Photo: lettersfromyoutothem / Instagram

#16 Stomach Kiss

The stomach kiss is both one of the most tender and one of the funniest gestures of affection. It involves one partner placing their lips on the others stomach and has become a common practice in maternity photoshoots, symbolizing both romantic and familial love.



This makes sense given its historical association with fertility and maternity in many cultures.

In India and the Middle East, for instance, kissing the belly is a symbol of respect for life's essence.



However, it is also used by couples who are not expecting, as a way to share playful affection, make each other laugh, and enjoy a more relaxed side of romance.



In The Notebook, a stomach kiss is used to show the emotional, non-performative side of love.

 Photo: navel.paglu / Instagram

#17 Lip Kiss

The lip kiss is the most straightforward and most familiar type of kiss, and it remains the purest symbol of love and affection.



From ancient Indian carvings to Roman frescoes and Renaissance paintings, kissing on the lips is one of the oldest romantic gestures that remains a staple of our culture today.



Its widely accepted in many parts of the world to kiss on the mouth in public, but many cultures still disapprove of public displays of affection.



Many couples also prefer to kiss privately to maintain the intimacy and meaning of the gesture.



The very first on-screen kiss happened in 1896 in The Kiss, and since then, very few movies havent featured at least one iconic liplock.

 Photo: lustdreamers / Instagram

#18 Butterfly Kiss

Light as a feather, this gentle kiss involves a different part of the body: the eyelashes. While many couples combine it with a kiss on the lips, the butterfly kiss uses the fluttering of eyelashes to convey tenderness, making it a sweet and playful way to make contact. The name is, of course, inspired by the sensation of a butterflys wings.



Despite its modern name, the butterfly kiss has a long history, dating back to the 19th century. It has become more common as families have adopted it to show platonic affection.



Bob Carlisles song Butterfly Kisses, for example, was written for his daughter. Its also popular with lovers and demonstrates that kissing your partner doesnt have to be excessive.

 Photo: kisskissphoto / Instagram

#19 Spider-Man Kiss

The iconic Spider-Man kiss, made legendary by Tobey Maguire and Kirsten Dunst in the 2002 superhero movie, is a cinematic fantasy turned pop-culture challenge.



Performed with one partner upside-down, it blends passion and playfulness in a truly unique and breathtaking way.



This kiss has no historical roots, aside from its appearance in the Spiderman comics, but its cultural impact is undeniable.



With so many different types of kisses already accepted, the Spiderman kiss proved that a new kind could be created, and people have been recreating it ever since.



The moment was so memorable that it even won MTVs Best Kiss award in 2003 and is regularly re-enacted at weddings and comic book conventions alike.

 Photo: r/shittymoviedetails

#20 Top-of-the-Head Kiss

Perhaps the most nurturing kiss of all, the top-of-the-head kiss conveys protection, love, reassurance, and devotion, all wrapped up in one simple gesture.



Parents give it to their children, lovers give it to one another, and friends sometimes exchange it as well. Historically, it dates back to ancient times, symbolizing blessing and guardianship, which were commonly found in churches.



Now a universally recognized symbol of affection, it embodies and transcends romance to convey a deep emotional bond.



In Blue Valentine, Ryan Gosling tenderly kisses Michelle Williams on the head; a small but powerful gesture that speaks a thousand words.

 Photo: jessanddoz / Instagram

FAQ

What is a Languorous Kiss?

A languorous kiss is a slow, deep, and passionate kiss that typically involves the exchange of tongues.
U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright speaks during the sixth meeting of the Transatlantic Energy Cooperation (P-TEC) in Athens, Greece, November 6, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Uranium enrichment is not part of the deal on civil nuclear energy reached with Saudi Arabia, U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright said on Wednesday.

"It is about civilian, civil use of nuclear power. It's not about enrichment. It's not about anything related to weapons. It's just about generating electricity, secure, reliable, affordable electricity," Wright said in an interview with Fox News.

The agreement is about construction of a large nuclear power plant in Saudi Arabia, he said. It is one of several agreements announced during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to Washington.

(Reporting by Katharine Jackson; Editing by Doina Chiacu)
FILE PHOTO: John K. Hurley, U.S. President Trump's nominee for Under Secretary for Terrorism and Financial Crimes at Department of the Treasury, attends a Senate Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs Committee confirmation hearing on Capitol Hill in Washington, D.C., U.S., April 10, 2025. REUTERS/Kevin Mohatt/File Photo

By Sam Tabahriti

LONDON (Reuters) -The United States, Australia and Britain announced coordinated sanctions on Wednesday against Russia-based web company Media Land, accusing it of supporting ransomware operations.

U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control also designated three members of the Russian company's leadership and three of its sister companies, the Department of Treasury said in a statement.

"These so-called bulletproof hosting service providers like Media Land provide cybercriminals essential services to aid them in attacking businesses in the United States and in allied countries," said John Hurley, under secretary of the treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence.

Britain said the sanctions exposed "illicit Russian networks enabling cyber attacks around the world" and marked the country's latest crackdown on malicious Russian cybercrime.

The Russian embassy in London did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Britain described Media Land as one of the most significant operators of so-called bulletproof hosting services, which provide infrastructure for ransomware and phishing attacks.

It announced similar measures to the United States, adding Aeza Group LLC to its Russia sanctions regime and six designations under its cyber regime.

Those include Media Land and another hosting provider, ML.Cloud LLC, along with four individuals accused of involvement in malicious cyber activity.

UK sanctions include asset freezes and director disqualification orders for all targets, with travel bans applied to the four individuals.

Aeza Group also faces restrictions on internet and trust services, which prohibit British businesses from providing technical support or hosting services.

Britain also targeted the person it described as Media Land's ringleader Alexander Volosovik, known online as "Yalishanda", who has been active in the cyber underground since at least 2010 and linked to groups such as Evil Corp, LockBit and Black Basta.

ML.Cloud is a Media Land sister company whose technical infrastructure is often used in conjunction with Media Land, including in ransomware and DDOS attacks, the U.S. statement said.

Neither Aeza Group nor ML.Cloud immediately responded to a request for comment. It was not immediately possible to reach Media Land or Volosovik.

Australia said it was imposing similar measures to align with its partners, citing the need to disrupt ransomware networks that have hit hospitals, schools and businesses.

(Reporting by Bhargav Acharya in Toronto and Sam Tabahriti in London; Editing by Alison Williams)
Killer Whales off the coast of Baja California Sur in the Sea of Cortez, Mexico. Kirk Hewlett, Getty Images

A pod of killer whales chased a young great white shark, immobilized it and then bit its liver out of its body. Researchers documented this rare interaction in the journal Frontiers in Marine Science, representing what they say is the first example of this behavior in the Gulf of California and the second worldwide.

The study adds to a growing body of research on killer whales, also called orcas, hunting great white sharks.

"The footage that they've gotten for this study is incredible, says Isabella Reeves, a predator biologist at Flinders University in Adelaide, Australia, who was not involved in the research. Especially is rare is the depiction of the whales sharing the prey with each other, she says: There's very few high-quality instances where we actually see that occurring, especially documented to this extent.

In the Gulf of California, the body of water that separates the Baja California peninsula from Mexicos mainland, marine biologists Erick Higuera, Francesca Pancaldi, and their team have closely studied a group of killer whales since 2018. They call it Moctezumas pod, after one of the individual whales that was first spotted in 1992 and was nicknamed for the Aztec emperor.

Over the years, they observed these orcas using diverse strategies to hunt a vast array of prey: from rays to whale sharks, stingrays and bull sharks.

Documenting the hunt

In August 2020, while the team was out at sea following the pod to conduct their research, the killer whales started hunting. Higuera quickly flew his drone to record the action.

I saw in the monitor of the drone that they were hunting a shark, but I couldn't tell what species of shark was, he recalls. During the hunting session, which lasted about 30 minutes, the pod took down two sharks.

Just days later, after downloading the footage, Higuera realized that the pod he recorded was hunting something unexpected: young great white sharks.

To hunt a juvenile great white sharkwhich is usually around 6.5 feet longthe killer whales would run it down, bite it and try to flip it on its back. In this position, the shark would become paralyzed, making it easier for the whales to bite their prey without being bitten back.

The members of the pod would take turns keeping the shark belly up, and toward the end of the attack they would bring it underwater. After about two minutes they would reappear, and one of the killer whales would hold the sharks fatty, calorie-rich liver in its mouth.

They would then pass the meal to each other, sharing the prize of their successful hunt.

The team recorded the Moctezumas pod again in August 2022, hunting one young great white shark in the same location where they spotted the first two predations. This time, the team didnt see the orcas turning the shark upside down to kill it.

The footage gives us a very clear look at how the interaction unfolds, which weve only been able to document directly in a few places globally, says Alison Towner, a marine biologist at Rhodes University in South Africa who wasnt involved in the new study.

(Why are these orcas killing sharks and removing their livers?)

Putting the behavior in context

Orcas have been documented hunting great white sharks in other parts of the world such as New Zealand, California and South Africa. They have mainly been seen hunting adultswhich are 13 to 16 feet longand studies in some areas showed that when one individual is hunted by killer whales, all the others move away from that area en masse to avoid the predators.

In this case, the Moctezumas pod seems to be targeting juveniles, say Higuera. They might be coming to this particular spot where we saw them just to hunt juvenile great whites, which are probably easier to hunt, as more naive than adult great whites, he says, and might not know how to escape killer whaleswhich are their only predator. But I couldn't doubt that they also hunt semi adults and adult great whites in this area, it's just that we haven't seen it yet.

Climate change may also be playing its part in this rare interaction. Scientists say that due to warming waters and other factors, the nurseries of these sharks might be movingwith great whites increasing their presence in the Gulf of California, presenting the orcas living there with a juicy opportunity to hunt them.

But Reeves notes that its too soon to draw conclusions on the effects that killer whales might have on the great white sharks living in that area. It's complex, and we can't risk oversimplifying these interactions, she says.

On the other hand, Towner, who wrote her doctoral dissertation on orcas displacing white sharks in South Africa, says the behavior could become a problem for great white sharks populations, especially if it becomes frequent.

White sharks are slow to mature, long-lived, and produce few offspring, so theyre vulnerable to added pressures, she says. In South Africa, for example, white sharks have left sites where they congregate in large numbers because of attacks from killer whales. That displacement can move them into areas where the risks from fisheries or shark control gear are higherso the indirect effects matter as much as the predation itself.
President Donald Trump, right, responding to a question during Tuesdays Oval Office bilateral meeting, where Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, left, was asked about the slaying of Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi. - Win McNamee/Getty Images

President Trump frequently demonstrates his disdain for journalists. He expresses his admiration for authoritarians almost as often.

Tuesday showed how intertwined those two instincts really are.

Trump repeatedly objected to press questions during an Oval Office photo op with Saudi Arabias crown prince, Mohammed bin Salman, whose country does not have a free press.

He lashed out at an ABC correspondent, Mary Bruce, after she invoked the 2018 murder of Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents.

The president said his ally, Brendan Carr, the chairman of the FCC, should look at punishing ABC over its news coverage.

I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and its so wrong, he asserted.

Trump misstated how FCC licenses actually work, but his message was clear: Hed like his government to retaliate the way a dictator would.

The president also called Bruce insubordinate, a word he rarely ever uses, while sitting next to the son of the Saudi king.

According to Reporters Without Borders, which tracks press freedom all around the world, independent media are non-existent in Saudi Arabia, and Saudi journalists live under heavy surveillance, even when abroad.

Despite societal reforms, journalists are still being detained and media outlets operate under strict state control, the organization says.

Trump has no such control over the American media, but he acts like he wants to have it.

In his comments on Tuesday, Trump was reflecting his belief that the press is there to be subservient to him, to shut up when he demands they shut up when he finds the question embarrassing, said Sarah Leah Whitson, executive director of Democracy for the Arab World Now, a non-profit founded by Khashoggi in 2018.

Heres the multi-part question from Bruce that triggered the tense exchange:

Is it appropriate, Mr. President, for your family to be doing business in Saudi Arabia while youre president? Is that a conflict of interest? And, your royal highness, the US intelligence (community) concluded you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist. 9/11 families are furious that you are here in the Oval Office. Why should Americans trust you? And the same to you, Mr. President.

Before Bruce could complete the question, Trump repeatedly asked, Who are you with?

Im with ABC News, sir, she said.

Fake news, Trump claimed, deriding one of the best-known news brands in America as one of the worst in the business.

But the question is important, sir, Bruce said, unfazed.

Trump went on to claim that he has nothing to do with the family business, then spoke dismissively about Khashoggi, calling the dissident journalist extremely controversial.

Prince bin Salman said Khashoggis murder has been painful for us in Saudi Arabia and defended the Saudi investigation into the crime.

Karen Attiah, who edited Khashoggis columns for The Washington Post, wrote on Bluesky that Trumps comments about the slain journalist were absolutely vile.

Minutes later, when Bruce asked an unrelated question about the Epstein files, Trump berated her for having an unpleasant attitude.

Its the way you ask these questions, he said. Circling back to the Khashoggi question for the prince, he said, You start off with a man who is highly respected, asking him a horrible, insubordinate, and just a terrible question. And you could even ask that same question nicely.

Then he tore into ABC, calling it a crappy company, and raising the specter of government retaliation.

The FCC regulates the licenses of local TV and radio stations nationwide, including those owned by ABC. But the national network is not licensed.

Trump has repeatedly spoken of wanting to revoke licenses, which would break with decades of precedent and likely spark lengthy legal battles.

Sen. Ed Markey, Democrat of Massachusetts, wrote on X, Trump again directs the FCC to rescind a broadcast license over a reporters question. Thin-skinned. Weak. Un-American. Authoritarian.

ABC had no comment about his latest threat. But some of Bruces colleagues at ABC and fellow members of the White House press corps cheered her persistence in posts on social media.

The National Press Club warned in a statement that Trumps minimizing of Khashoggis murder can have real-world consequences because such statements can embolden those who wish to silence reporters, and they can undermine the essential principle that journalists must be able to work without fear of violence or retribution.

Liam Reilly contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Nathan Carman arrives to the Coast Guard base in Boston on Sept. 27, 2016

Key Points

Vermont man Nathan Carman was accused of murdering his grandfather and mother in an alleged plot to inherit the family fortune.

He was arrested in 2022 but died before he could stand trial.

His family's story is explored in a new Netflix documentary, The Carman Family Deaths.

In September 2016, Nathan Carman and his mother, Linda Carman, set off from South Kingstown, R.I., for what was supposed to be an ordinary fishing trip. Eight days later, after a search conducted by the Coast Guard, Nathan was rescued, but Linda was never found.

Nathan was hailed as a survivor, but suspicions surfaced after some details of the trip didn't add up and his behavior raised red flags. Things got even more complicated when it was revealed that Nathan's wealthy grandfather, John Chakalos, had been murdered three years earlier  and Nathan was the last person to see him alive.

Now, the case is being revisited in Netflix's The Carman Family Deaths. Directed by Yon Motskin, the documentary includes archival footage and exclusive interviews from family, friends, and experts. Below, we look back at what happened to Nathan Carman, from his family life to his arrest and death.

Who was Nathan Carman?

Nic Antaya for The Boston Globe via Getty Nathan Carman arrives at U.S. District Court for his federal civil trial on Aug. 21, 2019, in Providence, R.I

Nathan was born in Connecticut in 1994 to Linda and Clark Carman. He was the firstborn grandson of a "Greek dynasty," per The Carman Family Deaths.

From birth, Nathan was the favorite of his grandfather, John. John provided generously for him throughout his life. As detailed in the documentary, John paid for Nathan's car, rent, and school in addition to giving him around $100,000 per year.

He was diagnosed with autism as a child, and struggled to make friends. His father, Clark, claimed that Nathan's mental health suffered after the death of his horse, Cruise. In the documentary, Clark shares that Nathan refused to see or speak to anyone, and even lived in a camper outside the family home.

Nathan was eventually hospitalized for psychiatric care, but upon his return continued to live in the camper and refused to speak with his parents. By then, Linda changed her will, and archival footage shows her deciding to leave the family's house to someone else. In the video, Linda assures Nathan that he will be "just fine," as he would inherit her trust and receive substantial funds from his grandfather.

What happened to John Chakalos?

Courtesy of Netflix Nathan Carman and John Chakalos, as seen in 'The Carman Family Deaths'

On Dec. 20, 2013, Nathan's grandfather and Linda's father, John Chakalos, was found dead in his home from a gunshot wound to the head. Nathan, being the last person to see John alive, became a suspect in the eyes of his family.

But Nathan, who denied any involvement with his grandfather's death, had an alibi. A neighbor reported hearing gunshots around 2 a.m., when surveillance footage showed Nathan to be at his apartment.

But Nathan's suspicious behavior prior to (and on the night of) the murder raised suspicion among investigators.

Christopher McKee, a former Windsor Police Department lieutenant, told ABC News' 20/20 that there was "at least one hour during the timeframe when Chakalos was shot that Nathan couldn't account for his whereabouts." Nathan said he left his apartment around 3 a.m. to meet his mother for one of their fishing trips, but got lost on the way and didn't resurface until 4:01 a.m.

Also, police found a receipt for a SIG Sauer rifle that Nathan purchased weeks before the murder. According to McKee, the rifle was bought out of state with an out-of-state license. When they first asked Nathan if he owned any guns, he claimed to only have an air gun. When later asked about the receipt, Nathan told detectives he "lost" the rifle he purchased and "didn't know where" it was. It was never recovered.

In the documentary, a maritime investigator alleges that Nathan sent a memo to John's trust and estate attorney before the murder, asking some "unbelievably" specific questions related to his grandfather's money.

Despite these allegations, Nathan was never charged with his grandfather's murder.

What happened to Linda Carman?

Courtesy of Netflix Linda and Clark Carman on their wedding day, as seen in 'The Carman Family Deaths'

After John's murder, Nathan's relationship with his extended family was strained. He used some of the money he received from his grandfather to purchase and renovate a home in Vermont. He also bought a fishing boat.

According to the documentary, Linda often went fishing with Nathan in an effort to reconnect with him. She wasn't a big fan of fishing, but did it to try and strengthen their relationship.

On Sept. 17, 2016, the two embarked one of these trips. They'd planned to go to Block Island off the coast of Rhode Island. but Nathan later told police that they instead traveled an extra 60 to 70 miles to Block Canyon.

As Nathan put it to Alfred Bucco, deputy chief for the South Kingstown Police Department, he and Linda noticed the engine acting up and saw water in the bilge. The boat sank, and Nathan was found in a life raft off the coast of Martha's Vineyard, Mass, on Sept. 25. His mother was never found.

Speaking with ABC News, Nathan claimed his mother was in the cockpit when the boat sank. "The whole time from when I saw water in the boat to when the boat sank was probably three to five minutes," he said. "I did not see or hear my mom."

He added, "I know I wasn't responsible for the boat sinking. I know that I wasn't responsible for anything that resulted from the boat sinking. I know I wasn't responsible for my mom's death."



Clark believes his son, saying in the documentary that it was "a severe accident." He added, "I know if Nathan had the ability, he would have saved his mother."

Linda's family, on the other hand, suspect Nathan of murdering her. "He killed our sister his own mother," Linda's younger sister Charlene says in the documentary. "So, yeah, we didn't want anything to do with him."

Was Nathan Carman ever arrested?

Suzanne Kreiter/The Boston Globe via Getty Nathan Carman arrives to the Coast Guard base in Boston on Sept. 27, 2016

After a six-year FBI investigation, Nathan was arrested in May 2022 and indicted on eight charges, including one count of murder, three counts of mail fraud, and four counts of wire fraud.

According to a release from the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Vermont, the indictment states that Nathan killed both John and Linda as part of a "scheme to obtain money and property from the estate of John Chakalos and related family trusts."



As reported by PEOPLE, federal prosecutors alleged that Nathan had lured Linda out to fish, killed her at sea, and deliberately sank the boat as part of a long and carefully planned scheme to inherit the family estate.

They also claim that Nathan created false stories to cover up his involvement with the deaths of both Linda and John. "During the cover-up, Carman misrepresented his involvement in and responsibility for those deaths to law enforcement, to his family, to those who made inquiries about the deaths and their circumstances, and to others who challenged his cover-up or challenged his rights to his grandfather's assets."



Nathan pleaded not guilty to all charges.

What happened to Nathan Carman?

Nic Antaya for The Boston Globe via Getty Nathan Carman arrives at U.S. District Court for his federal civil trial on Aug. 21, 2019, in Providence, R.I

In June 2023, four months before he was scheduled to go trial, Nathan died by suicide in his jail cell. Following his death, all charges against him were dismissed.

Nathan's legal team expressed shock and disbelief over the incident. Martin J. Minnella, one of his lawyers, told the New York Times, "We had no indication there was anything wrong. We had wanted to go to court and let the truth be known about this kid because the truth wasnt out there. My mind is blown. Its a complete surprise."

Another one of Nathan's attorneys, David X. Sullivan, said he had spoken with Nathan the night before his death and found him to be "in very good spirits." He added, "I am so deeply saddened and troubled by his loss."

According to The Carman Family Deaths, the aftermath of Nathan's suicide resulted in Linda officially being declared dead in October 2023,

Where can I watch The Carman Family Deaths?

The Carman Family Deaths is now streaming on Netflix.

Get your daily dose of entertainment news, celebrity updates, and what to watch with our EW Dispatch newsletter.



Read the original article on Entertainment Weekly
Chris Coduto/MLB Photos via Getty Antonio Jimenez

NEED TO KNOW

A minor league pitcher in the San Francisco Giants organization was seriously injured in a car accident

Antonio Jimenez, 24, suffered fractures to his spine and femur in the crash, which involved an SUV and two scooters

The accident occurred on Monday, Nov. 16 in San Pedro de Macoris, Dominican Republic

A minor league pitcher for the San Francisco Giants was seriously injured in a car accident in the Dominican Republic on Monday morning, authorities said.

Antonio Jimenez, 24, suffered fractures to his spine and femur as well as multiple lacerations in the accident, which involved an SUV and two scooters in the town of San Pedro de Macoris, about an hour east of Santo Domingo. Three men died in the accident, according to Dominican outlet Conexion 23.

Jimenez was transported to a local hospital in critical condition, the outlet reported.

We are aware of the tragic car accident involving one of our players, Antonio Jimenez, and are in the process of gathering more information, the Giants said in a statement to PEOPLE. Out of respect for everyone affected and due to the ongoing investigation, we will refrain from further comment.

Mary DeCicco/MLB Photos via Getty Antonio Jimenez

The promising young pitcher was currently playing for the Toros del Este in the Liga Dominicana winter league. The team confirmed the accident in a statement on X.

Our prayers are with our pitcher Antonio Jimenez, who suffered several injuries in a regrettable traffic accident, the team said. We extend our condolences and prayers to the families of the victims who lost their lives in the incident.

Jimenez joined the Giants as a minor league free agent last offseason after singing with the Tampa Bay Rays in 2018.

Last year, he played the entire season with Triple-A Sacramento, posting a 3.55 ERA and 56 strikeouts in 45.2 innings.

Read the original article on People
An Army brigade has said it will receive state-of-the-art communications equipment to give it the edge on the battlefield.

The new system for the 16 Air Assault Brigade, based in Colchester, will allow troops to talk and share information with a commander thousands of miles away.

The kit uses MPU5 radios connected with smartphones which can send messages, video images and pinpoint enemy positions on a map.

Soldiers from the unit have tested the system in the jungle in Belize and the brigade is due to receive the system early in 2026.

The 216 (Parachute) Signal Squadron - part of the Colchester unit which tested the system - said the jungle in Belize offered a demanding environment for using electronic equipment.

The system's network has a so-called "self-healing" ability to stay online if communication links are disrupted.

The Army said the technology would lead to improved understanding, quicker decision making and better planning.

Maj Ben Salero, officer commanding 216 (Para) Sig Sqn, said the new equipment meant soldiers could carry less kit.

"It will make the brigade more lethal by improving situational awareness," he said.

"We've been working with the radios to understand how to use them to best suit our needs, and testing kit in the jungle will give us confidence that it will work wherever we want to use it."

Cpl Harry Umpleby, an information systems engineer, said that to operate in the jungle "you need to very quickly accept being uncomfortable, and just get on with it".

"When you're under the jungle canopy, it's a different world," he said.

"Visibility and movement are restricted by all the trees and it's hot and wet, with all sorts of wildlife.

"You've really got to be on top of looking after yourself and your kit, and it's an experience that I've learnt a lot from."

Follow Essex news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.

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Keanu Reeves has a message for all involved in locating his prized John Wick Rolex after it was brazenly stolen from his Los Angeles home by a foreign crime ring.

It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that I am writing this letter, pens Reeves in a handwritten note, obtained by The Post. The star then goes on to thank members of the FBI, Los Angeles Police Department and California Highway Patrol as well as officers and investigators in Chile.

Several members of the John Wick: Chapter 4 crew received the watches. David Lee/Lionsgate

Reeves thanked law enforcement officials from around the world for their work. FBI

Thank you so much for all your effort, dedication, professionalism and across-border cooperation. My warmest regards, Keanu, adds the star.

Law enforcement agents recovered some of the millions of dollars worth of valuables that were stolen from the actors LA home in 2023. Officials were able to track down the possessions after conducting a raid in Santiago, Chile over the summer.

A Rolex Submariner featuring a personal inscription on the back from the John Wick film was among one of six watches returned to Reeves.

Valued at $9,500, the watch was part of a gift package given out after John Wick: Chapter 4 wrapped. In total, Reeves six watches were worth an estimated $125,000.

The returned John Wick watch was one of personal significance to Reeves. PDI_CHILE/X

Officials tracked some of Reeves stolen property to a crime ring in South America. PDI_CHILE/X

Authorities identified a Chilean crime ring as the perpetrators who robbed Reeves Hollywood Hills home.

The incident reflects a broader trend of foreigners coming into the US to burglarize unsuspecting victims, and return to their home country with their loot. Over the past few years, these groups have brazenly targeted wealthy SoCal communities.

While the case seemed to go cold for a little after the robbery, authorities tracked down a gang in Santiago suspected of being at the helm of these burglaries.

Eventually, the FBI and the Chilean police joined forces to search the homes of presumed ring members where the watches were ultimately discovered.
Tyrell-Jordan Blackwood from Dartford is fundraising to send essential goods to hurricane victims in Jamaica [BBC]

A student is raising money to help relief efforts in Jamaica after Hurricane Melissa devastated his grandmother's home nation.

Concerned for friends and family, Tyrell-Jordan Blackwood, from Dartford, began collecting essential aid items after the category 5 storm tore through the Caribbean in October.

The 26-year-old North Kent College student said he was hoping to raise 4,000 to pay for a shipping container to deliver the goods to charities in Jamaica.

Mr Blackwood said: "I started the campaign because I saw Jamaica needed to be rebuilt, needed relief and needed hope."

The media student, who is also a DJ and content producer, received donations from followers to his social media channels and used his mobile events van to collect them.

But as food, tools, sanitary products, tarpaulin and clothing kept coming in, Mr Blackwood decided he needed a way to get the items to Jamaica.

"I don't have that kind of money so I put an appeal out," he said.

The campaign has raised more than 1,300 so far towards the shipping container costs, which will be overseen by registered charities Chelsea Big Local and the Jamaican Red Cross.

Melissa has become the most powerful storm on record to hit Jamaica, and one of the strongest seen in the Caribbean.

At its peak, it had sustained winds of 185mph (295 km/h). A category five hurricane - those capable of catastrophic damage - has winds in excess of 157mph.

The hurricane caused dozens of deaths across the Caribbean, with at least 28 in Jamaica alone.

Homes were destroyed, while roads became flooded or blocked by debris, isolating communities with little food, no power and no running water.

Mr Blackwood eventually made contact with his loved ones when communication was restored, but he was shocked at the scale of destruction.

He said: "Houses are flattened, there's no water, there's no roofs. Entire homes have caved in.

"In some homes in the countryside, there is no electric, people are left with no belongings.

"People that did have food have had it go off because there's no electric.

"My aunt has been told it will be like that for months."

North Kent College, in Dartford, is planning to support the fundraising campaign by hosting a music event where Mr Blackwood will perform under his stage name DJ Stylah.

His tutor and head of media at the college, Grahame Gladin, said everyone was impressed by his motivation.

He said: "He's a real star. He brought such energy to this campaign and the college is fully behind him. It's so important that we get involved and start helping.

"The Jamaican people are left in devastation at the moment, so it's important we get on that journey, and TJ is the perfect man for the job."

Follow BBC Kent on Facebook, on X, and on Instagram. Send your story ideas to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or WhatsApp us on 08081 002250.
Microsoft is betting big on agentic AI to simplify and automate cloud operations by introducing an agentic mode to Azure Copilot that could surface insights and provide recommendations but not take any actions.

While the hyperscaler is pitching the upgraded Copilot as a tool that simplifies cloud operations at scale by taking actions on its own, as opposed to traditional management tools that would require manual intervention and specialised skills, analysts say that instead of reducing complexities, the tool could introduce a few of its own.

How is the new agentic Azure Copilot different?

The agentic Azure Copilot, showcased at the companys annual Ignite conference, utilises a reasoning model to orchestrate six agents, easing the complexity of tasks, such as modernisation and migration of legacy applications, deployment of cloud infrastructure, optimisation, observability, resiliency, and troubleshooting.

This ability to orchestrate between agents on its own, based on user intent, is what differentiates the agentic Copilot from its previous version that depended on a more general-purpose large language model (LLM) to recommend tools and actions.

The agentic Azure Copilot, which can be enabled by toggling a setting in the Azure portal, becomes accessible once activated across all workflows in Azure, including the command line interface (CLI).

Enterprises also have the option of saving chats on the upgraded Copilot to a location of their choice for governance and audit purposes.
We really recognise that the important parts of our business as a telco are our network, our customer experience and our employee experience. All of that was only going to be possible if we really thought about our foundations first, she said.

Stevens said if the telco was going to embrace AI, it was necessary to reinforce those foundations.

We were sitting on complexity, she said. So, years and years of best intentions, but really creating technical debt, crimes against data, and we really needed to arrest all of that. So, going after simplicity and modernisation in our data foundations is really the key to being able to go after that AI first model.

So far, Databricks solutions have helped Telstra separate compute and storage, as well as creating cost efficiencies and opportunities for more scalability and elasticity in its data ecosystem.

It also tapped the vendors Unity Catalog to provide knowledge on where its data is and where its going and Delta Sharing to share data between different platforms and clouds.

By focusing on the solutions that assist with its flow of data, Telstra can then ensure its putting its best foot forward when it comes to embracing AI.

Over the last few years, weve worked with the Australian federal government in being early adopters of their AI ethics principles, Stevens said. Weve worked with the global mobile industry to help co-author the global mobile industrys AI ethics and playbooks, and now we have a seat at UNESCOs business council for AI ethics, contributing and learning about responsible AI around the world.

Those inform our policies  they inform what we want to do, but it only works when you get to operational effectiveness of those controls.

So, that is playing out in every single piece of work we do with AI. Every AI model at Telstra goes through an oversight committee to see if just because we can do it, should we do it?

Stevens also said the telco is seeing demand from both customers and employees to move things faster, which she said then turns to making sure trust is kept as a priority.

Thats making sure we run with transparency, we run with data quality, and we are making those governing decisions and making sure that observability is working, she said.

Additionally, Telstra is also investing into training its employees as much as its investing in its data, responsible AI and AI scaling, according to Stevens.

She said the telco has built an internal data and AI academy, which has had 20,000 people do at least one course, with aspirations for a similar amount to take place this year.

Thats really uplifting everyone at Telstras AI literacy and maturity; [were] investing in uplifting peoples capabilities as much as were investing in the technology itself, Stevens said.

The two organisations have maintained a strong sense of collaboration and co-creation, with the pair had workshops along with partners working together to solve problems for Telstra.

Our team is working together on what were going to do next and how were going to take advantage of the innovation that Databricks is doing, she added.
Today's headlines: The first trial on sectarian violence against Alawites has begun in Aleppo; New wave of floods in central Vietnam: 8 dead and coffee plantations submerged; Protesters in Delhi demand government action against severe air pollution; Burmese army raid results in 350 arrests at scam centre on Thai border.

CHINA - JAPAN

China has informed Japan that it will ban all imports of Japanese seafood products, a decision taken amid growing diplomatic dispute caused by Takaichi's statements on Taiwan. China has asked her to retract her statements, urging its citizens not to travel to Japan, causing mass cancellations. Just a few months ago, Beijing had eased restrictions on Japanese seafood imposed following the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima plant in 2023. China has said that the reintroduction of the ban is due to the need for further monitoring.

SYRIA

The first trial has begun against hundreds of suspects involved in deadly clashes earlier this year in Syria's coastal provinces, which escalated into sectarian attacks against the Alawite minority, leaving at least 1,400 people dead. Fourteen people were taken to the Aleppo Courthouse at the end of a months-long government investigation into violence by government forces and supporters of former President al-Assad. The investigative commission referred 563 suspects to the judiciary. Seven of the defendants in court were loyal to Assad, while the other seven were members of the new government's security forces.

VIETNAM

A new wave of floods and landslides caused by torrential rains that have hit central Vietnam since the weekend has killed at least eight people. Traders warn that this is hampering the ongoing coffee harvest. Since Saturday, rainfall has exceeded 1,100 millimetres in several areas of central Vietnam. The region is home to an important coffee-producing area, with plantations now submerged by water.

INDIA

Hundreds of Delhi residents staged a protest rally to demand immediate government action to address the worsening air quality in the region, where pollution levels have reached extreme and dangerous levels. Where some 30 million people live, it has been classified as very poor for weeks, with some areas reaching severe with an air quality index (AQI) of at least 402.

MYANMAR - THAILAND

The Burmese army has claimed to have raided a scam centre on the Thai border in Shwe Kokko. Nearly 350 people were arrested as part of a highly publicised crackdown. Scam centres have proliferated on the border with war-torn Myanmar, with scams worth tens of billions of dollars a year. The Burmese military junta has long turned a blind eye, but, following pressure from China, it launched a crackdown in February.

UZBEKISTAN - CENTRAL ASIA

The 7th Consultative Meeting of Central Asian Heads of State was held in Tashkent, chaired by Shavkat Mirziyoyev. In addition to the other four presidents, Ilham Aliyev, President of Azerbaijan, was also welcomed as a full member, and Kakha Imnadze, head of the UN Regional Centre for Central Asia, was also present. The final settlement of territorial issues throughout the region was confirmed, with the opening of border posts and transport links.

RUSSIA

Russia's energy systems are in serious crisis, and in 2025 there were over 4,000 cases of failure resulting in power and electricity outages, 10% of which (467 cases) were due to Ukrainian drone attacks, while the rest were due to infrastructure wear and tear, for which there are no means of maintenance and repair, making it easier for Ukrainians to identify targets in southern and central Russia.
by Nirmala Carvalho

Fr Susai Jesu, a missionary with the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, was called by Leo XIV to lead the Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas. Since 2007, he has lived his ministry among First Nations, Metis, and Inuit people, participating in the journey of reconciliation that culminated in the meeting with Pope Francis at Lac Ste. Anne in 2022. God chooses the weak to make them strong in faith and love, said the new prelate in his first comment after he learnt of his appointment.

Madras (AsiaNews)  An Indian missionary from Tamil Nadu who has worked for years among Canadas Indigenous communities has been chosen as the new archbishop of Keewatin-Le Pas, a huge diocese in northern Canada that covers parts of Saskatchewan and Manitoba.

On Monday, Pope Leo XIV appointed Fr Susai Jesu, 54, to this ministry. A priest of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate who has served in Canada since 2007, he plays an important role in the ongoing process of memorial purification and reconciliation between the Canadian Church and Indigenous communities.

For years, he has been engaged in pastoral ministry among Indigenous people. He was hitherto parish priest at Lac Ste. Anne, a place considered sacred by local First Nations people, where Pope Francis stopped in July 2022 during his trip to Canada, which included reconciliation with Indigenous people among his most important goals.

Fr Susai had previously accompanied an Indigenous delegation to an initial meeting at the Vatican that paved the way for the historic visit.

The Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas is very culturally diverse, home to Metis, Cree, Oji-Cree, Dene, and non-Indigenous people. The region west of James Bay has long been known as Keewatin, meaning north wind.

I was very happy learning Cree and accompanying Indigenous communities in Pelican Narrows and Sandy Bay, Saskatchewan, and later at Sacred Heart Church of the First Peoples in Edmonton, where I had the privilege of welcoming Pope Francis, wrote Fr Susai commenting his appointment as archbishop.

My passion is to bring people to Jesus and to evangelize the poor, fulfilling the Oblate charism of our founder, St. Eugene. I was blessed to have a brief new start in Lac Ste. Anne, and I am now happy to serve with the priests and pastoral workers of the Archdiocese of Keewatin-Le Pas. Thank you all for your support and prayers.

As I reflect on my feelings at this memorable moment, the words of the Blessed Virgin Mary come to mind: My soul magnifies the Lord, my spirit rejoices in God my savior. God lifts up the lowly and fills the hungry with good things.

For the archbishop-elect, It is a humbling experience to receive Gods calling to serve as a bishop. I truly realize that God chooses the weak to make them strong in faith and love. My heart is filled with gratitude and joy.

Fr Susai Jesu was born on 17 May 1971, in Pushpavanam, Tamil Nadu, India. Drawn to the religious life from a young age, he joined the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate and was ordained a priest on 27 July 2000, at the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary in Kanchipuram. The ordination was conferred by Archbishop Lawrence Pius Dorairaj of MadrasMylapore.

A gifted linguist fluent in English, Cree, and Tamil, Father Susai combines his pastoral vocation with academic training, having earned a Master's Degree in Psychology in India and another in Counselling and Spirituality from St. Paul's University in Ottawa.

A Canadian citizen, he is a devoted servant of Indigenous communities and the urban poor. He has led and supported numerous initiatives, including picnic lunch programmes, a parish food bank, warm clothing distributions, and regular community meals for Edmonton's needy.

He is known for his compassion, cultural sensitivity, and unwavering dedication to reconciliation, community building, and supporting those most in need.

I have always seen something special in him, especially in the way he embraces pastoral ministry, says his nephew, Fr Christopher, who also became an Oblate of Mary Immaculate, inspired by his uncles example.

I observed how he interacted with people, especially the poor. Wherever he served, he became one with the community. His love for the Word of God inspired many, including me. His friendly nature and love for the poor continue to encourage me in my ministry with great enthusiasm and dedication.
by Vladimir Rozanskij

A local association conducted a survey among ministers of religion on their attention to ecological issues: almost all expressed strong concerns about behaviours that 32.1% attribute to the weakening of moral and religious values. A pilot training project on these issues for imams and madrasas is in the works.

Bishkek (AsiaNews) - The results of a study conducted as part of the project Raising the level of climate education, information and activity among religious communities were presented in Bishkek.

The initiative was organised by the Kyrgyz environmental association Move Green together with Unitar, the United Nations Institute for Training and Research, and the National Agency for Religious Affairs and Interethnic Relations under the Presidency of Kyrgyzstan.

The organisers note that climate change remains one of the most pressing challenges for the country, and that the ecological issue fits organically into the Islamic value system.

In their view, religious institutions can become significant partners for the state and social organisations in promoting climate literacy. Move Green manager Taazima Temirova said that during the survey, about 300 clergy members were interviewed, 94.7% of whom consider caring for creation a moral and religious duty.

86.8% of survey participants expressed strong concerns about the state of the natural environment, and 98% said they were willing to receive specific training on climate issues.

Over 80% noted that imams already address ecological issues in their sermons, mostly with calls for cleanliness and moderation. The organisers also point to the lack of methodological materials and the absence of systematic work in this direction.

According to 64.6% of the research participants, the main cause of ecological problems is the irresponsible relationship of human beings towards nature, and 32.1% attribute this drift to the decline in moral and religious values shared by international society.

The director of Move Green, Azat Muradyl, believes that the involvement of mosques and madrasas in ecological education can become a very effective tool for spreading a responsible approach to ecological issues and climate change in Kyrgyz society.

He therefore states that our research has shown how religious leaders can truly be the best allies in this perspective of common growth, as they guarantee trust, influence and moral authority, and understanding through religious faith is accepted with greater depth and firmness than the directives of administrations.

One example among many concerns the behaviour of citizens in Kyrgyzstan's most precious natural area, the mountains and lakes of Issyk-Kul, where it seems impossible to control access to the lake shores, which are used as free beaches, resulting in continuous ecological degradation and uncontrolled algae proliferation.

Despite all the signs, prohibitions and warnings of all kinds, irresponsible tourists arrive by car at the lake shores to spend the day, and only a strong warning from the imams could deter them more effectively.

As part of the Move Green pilot project, there are plans to train 60 Islamic ministers to promote a caring attitude towards the surrounding environment and nature in general, and the project will then be gradually extended to the whole republic, involving religious institutions.
The blogger who reported on the Wuhan pandemic - sentenced two months ago to another four years in prison - has been taken to a new detention centre for education sessions. Meanwhile, the former abbot of Shaolin Temple, who fell from grace in July for being too independent, has now been sent to prison on charges of corruption.

Milan (AsiaNews/Agencies) - Two months after her new sentence of four more years in prison, Zhang Zhan - the blogger and Christian human rights activist who first reported on the pandemic in Wuhan - has been moved without warning to a new detention facility with no possibility of contact with her family.

This was discovered by her lawyer, who went to visit her at the Pudong Detention Centre in Shanghai and was told that it was impossible because she had been transferred. Only after Reporters Without Borders  which awarded her the Press Freedom Award in 2021 and has been following her case for some time  made the news public did the local authorities announce that she is now in the Women's Prison, also in Shanghai but in the Songjiang district.

According to what Zhang Zhan's mother was told, she was sent to this new location for a month of education and visits are not allowed.

After already serving four years in prison, on 19 September, in a closed-door trial in a Shanghai court , Zhang Zhan was again convicted on charges of disturbing social order and provoking quarrels for travelling to Gansu province to meet human rights activist Zhang Pancheng, who was arrested for participating in protests in defence of workers who had been treated unfairly.

We are deeply concerned about her situation, said Antoine Bernal of Reporters Without Borders. The international community must not remain silent. It must call for an end to this shameful persecution of this heroine of journalism.

Meanwhile, in China, another case that has been the subject of much discussion in recent months has taken a new judicial turn: on Sunday 16 November, Shi Yongxin, the former Buddhist abbot of the Shaolin Temple, who was removed from his post in July for extremely inappropriate behaviour, was finally arrested.

The authorities in the central province of Henan, where the religious site famous throughout the world as the cradle of kung fu is located, approved Shi's arrest on charges of embezzlement, misuse of funds and acceptance of bribes as a non-state employee, the Xinxiang Procuratorate said in a statement.

At the head of a veritable empire, as we explained in this article, monk Shi, abbot since 1999, had already escaped unscathed from other accusations of the same nature. Many have attributed the real reason for his fall from grace (and now his arrest) to the excessive independence he showed towards the Party, even in the movement's international relations, which had also taken him to the Vatican to meet Pope Francis last January.
Today I appeal to you with one call: do not despair, Karapetian said in a statement released from prison. Do not think that the small clique [ruling Armenia] has achieved a positive result for itself. By trampling on sanctities, filling prisons, seizing property, and trying to create an atmosphere of fear, you may be able to hold on to power for another six months at most, but you will not hold on to the country, restore the country's dignity, improve the lives of your citizens or solve problems of the state.

In just a few months, we will be congratulating each other on the victory of justice, the restoration of dignity, the defeat of evil, and the beginning of a new era of prosperity and peace for Armenia. So we will continue the struggle and move towards unconditional victory, in our own way, added the statement.

Karapetian clearly alluded to the parliamentary elections due in June next year. His Mer Dzevov movement, officially launched in late August, is expected to be one of the ruling Civil Contract partys main opposition challengers.

Under Armenian law, the 60-year-old businessman is not eligible to become prime minister because of his dual Russian nationality. Despite this legal hurdle and his five-month imprisonment, his movement claims to have already attracted 8,000 members.

Earlier this week, Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian again stated that he is confident that his party will win the 2026 elections. He pointed to its victory in a weekend local election in a district west of Yerevan comprising the town of Vagharshapat and 17 villages.

Narek Karapetian, the jailed tycoons nephew coordinating Mer Dzevovs activities, downplayed the implications of that victory. He argued that Mer Dzevov did not participate in the Vagharshapat ballot.

These were one of the last Armenian elections which involved the government and the pre-June 18 opposition, he said, adding that his new opposition force will ensure Pashinians removal from power.

Karapetian Jr. referred to the date of his uncles controversial arrest and prosecution. Samvel Karapetian was charged with calling for violent regime change hours after condemning Pashinians efforts to depose the top clergy of the Armenian Apostolic Church. He was also accused of tax evasion, fraud and money laundering in July after deciding to enter politics. He rejects all the accusations as politically motivated.
Their representatives insisted on Wednesday that these individuals -- among them three bishops of the Armenian Apostolic Church, two opposition mayors, a billionaire businessman and two podcasters -- are political prisoners prosecuted in an unprecedented government crackdown on dissent.

Democracy in Armenia is regressing, and the unprecedented number of political prisoners is a manifestation of that, reads the resolution drafted by the opposition Hayastan and Pativ Unem alliances. It also demands an end to the political persecution of a growing number of government critics.

Hayastans Kristine Vartanian said she and fellow opposition lawmakers will try to force a parliament debate on the resolution next week.

We are not talking about protecting the rights of a limited number of persons, she told RFE/RLs Armenian Service. We are talking about protecting democracy and human rights in Armenia.

Hasmik Hakobian, a parliament deputy from the ruling Civil Contract party, made clear that the pro-government majority in the National Assembly will block the passage of the resolution. She insisted that there are no political prisoners in the country.

All those people they call political prisoners are being questioned under specific articles [of the Criminal Code] or are detained or are going through a judicial process, said Hakobian.

Meanwhile, a Hayastan leader, Ishkhan Saghatelian, urged supporters to join him and other opposition leaders in rallying outside prosecutors headquarters in Yerevan on Thursday in support of the political prisoners. Saghatelian said they will then march to a district court where Archbishop Bagrat Galstanian and 17 of his mostly jailed supporters stand trial on coup chargers denied by them.

Galstanian, who led last year massive anti-government protests in Yerevan, was arrested on June 25 the day before Prime Minister Nikol Pashinian threatened to forcibly depose Catholicos Garegin II, the supreme head of the Armenian Church at odds with the government. Two days later, another archbishop very critical of Pashinian, Mikael Ajapahian, was arrested for allegedly calling for violent regime change. Ajapahian was sentenced to two years in prison on October 3 in a trial strongly condemned by the church and the Armenian opposition.

Earlier in June, Samvel Karapetian, a billionaire businessman and philanthropist, was likewise arrested and charged with calling for a violent overthrow of the government just hours after denouncing Pashinians campaign against the top clergy.

In what is widely seen as a related development, law-enforcement authorities rounded up at least 13 clergymen on October 15. One of them, Bishop Mkrtich Proshian, was remanded in custody on charges of forcing his subordinates to attend opposition rallies. Proshian, who is a nephew of Garegin, denies the charges.

Five days later, security forces sparked angry protests in Armenias second largest city of Gyunri when they arrested its opposition mayor, Vartan Ghukasian, on corruption charges which he too rejects as politically motivated. Over 40 Ghukasian supporters are now prosecuted for participating in what law-enforcement authorities call mass disturbances.

Armenias Court of Appeals released three of them, including a well-known local opposition activist, from custody late on Tuesday. The Office of the Prosecutor-General said it will appeal against the ruling that reduced to 23 the number of Ghukasian supporters currently held in detention. According to defense lawyers, the accusations levelled against most of them are based on incriminating testimony given by police officers.

Anti-government protests in the country have rarely been followed by so many arrests and prosecutions in the past. Critics say the scale of the crackdown underlines Pashinians deep sense of insecurity ahead of showdown general elections due in June. The premier has expressed confidence that his party will win the elections.
19 November 2025 14:22 (UTC+04:00)

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The scope of the project is striking. The Shamkir plant is planned to produce two million tons of hot briquetted iron annually, placing it among the most sizable metallurgical facilities in the wider region. The investment is equally substantial: around $700 million will be channeled into construction, with financing drawn partly from international banks and financial institutions. This mix of domestic ownership and external capital makes the project a textbook example of partial foreign investment

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19 November 2025 12:23 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

A delegation led by Arif Agayev, Deputy Chairman of Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY), took part in the 2nd ChinaEurope Express Railway Cooperation Forum, Azernews reports, citing ADY.

The forum serves as one of the key international platforms supporting the sustainable development of freight transportation along the ChinaEurope route, strengthening transport connectivity between Asia and Europe, and advancing the Belt and Road Initiative.

In his speech, Arif Agayev emphasized that Azerbaijan regards China not only as a strategic trade partner but also as a reliable ally in the field of transport and logistics. He noted that joint implementation of infrastructure and multimodal projects plays a crucial role in strengthening interregional connectivity, accelerating logistics processes, diversifying routes, and boosting the exportimport potential of participating countries.

Alongside taking part in the forum, the ADY delegation held high-level meetings with representatives of Chinas major companies, including Cosco, Huawei, and CCCC. Discussions focused on cooperation prospects, regional freight transportation, and potential joint steps in digitalization.

Forum discussions centered on enhancing the efficiency of the ChinaEurope Express corridor, increasing freight volumes, shaping a modern international logistics system, and improving land transport links between East and West. Participants emphasized that establishing safe, sustainable, and competitive multimodal transport routes is vital for the further development of the Belt and Road Initiative.

At the conclusion of the event, the parties signed a document titled Joint Initiative for the High-Quality Development of the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route.

The agreement covers cooperation in digital data exchange, tariff policy improvements, increased infrastructure investments, and the adoption of green logistics practices.
19 November 2025 12:01 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

The Nakhchivan State Children's Philharmonic has visited the Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic Hall, Azernews reports.

A friendship concert was organized with the support of the Azerbaijan Culture Ministry, the Culture Ministry of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, and the Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic.

In her opening remarks, pianist and director of the Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic, Saida Taghi-zade spoke about the significance of the event and highlighted the importance of creative cooperation between the two institutions.

Yagut Guliyeva, director of the Nakhchivan State Children's Philharmonic, emphasized the cultural and educational value of the event and expressed her gratitude to the organizers and hosts. She also spoke about the foundation, activities, and young performers of the philharmonic.

For the first time, the creative ensembles of both philharmonics performed a joint concert program.

The main aim of the concert was to establish mutual creative collaboration between the institutions, support the development of joint projects, and showcase the potential of young talents to a wider audience.

The program featured performances by the Azerbaijan State Children's Philharmonic's Children and Youth Dance Ensemble (artistic director: Mahammad Guliyev), the vocal class, soloist Leyla Alizade (teacher: Leyla Aslanova), as well as the Nakhchivan State Children's Philharmonic's dance group (choreographer: Nurdan Baghirova) and soloists Namiq Valiyev, Majid Huseynov, Elkhan Akbarov, Maryam Huseynquliyeva, Yusif Akbarov, Rabiyya Seyidova, Yagmur Orujova, and Bilal Qulusoy.

Later, guests including Maharram Latifov, head of a sector at the Culture Ministry of the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic, Honored Artist of Azerbaijan Nuriyya Huseynova, and Sarkhan Bunyadzade were invited to the stage to share their thoughts.

The event concluded with the performance of the song "Long Live Azerbaijan." This concert helped build a new bridge of creative cooperation between the two institutions and enriched the children's stage experience and artistic opportunities.
19 November 2025 15:38 (UTC+04:00)

Laman Ismayilova Read more

Uzeyir Hajibayli's operetta "Husband and Wife" has been warmly received in Ashgabat, Turkmenistan, Azernews reports.

The performance was staged in the Turkmen language at the Main Drama Theatre named after Saparmyrat Turkmenbashy, the Great.

Originally written in 1909 and recognized as the first operetta of the East, the work drew enthusiastic applause from the Ashgabat audience.

Staff members of the Azerbaijani Embassy in Turkmenistan, along with their families, attended the performance. Following the show, embassy representatives met with the creative team and presented bouquets to the actors and stage crew in appreciation.

Uzeyir Hajibayli's legacy continues to hold a significant place in Turkmenistan's cultural and theatrical landscape. Alongside "Husband and Wife," his celebrated operetta "The Cloth Peddler" is regularly staged in various theaters across Ashgabat, consistently earning high praise from both local and international audiences.

"Husband and Wife" is a three-act musical comedy with both music and libretto composed by Azerbaijani composer Uzeyir Hajibayli, and represents an early example of this genre in Azerbaijan. It is the first work in Hajibayli's trilogy of musical comedies, followed by "If Not That One, Then This One" and "The Cloth Peddler"

The operetta explores themes related to family and everyday life, including familial oppression and the role of Azerbaijani women in society. Its premiere took place on May 24, 1910, in Baku, at the Nikitin brothers' theatre-circus.

The leading roles were performed by Huseyngulu Sarabski (Marjan bey), Ahmed Agdamski (Minnat khanim), M.H. Teregulov (Safi), and Mirzagha Aliyev (Kerbelayi Gubad), with Huseyn Arablinski serving as stage director and Hajibeyov himself conducting.

Following its debut, "Husband and Wife" was performed in several other theaters across Azerbaijan, including in Nakhchivan, Aghdam, and Shaki.

Uzeyir Hajibayli significantly shaped national musical identity, achieving the distinction of composing the first opera in the Islamic world.

His opera "Leyli and Majnun" (1908) drew upon traditional folk music and dance, forms of expression transmitted orally.

Hajibayli's subsequent operas, including "Sheyh Sanan," "Rustam and Sohrab," "Asli and Karam," "Shah Abbas," "Khurshudbanu and Harun," and "Leyli," also prominently featured national folk music elements, particularly mugham.

Beyond opera, Hajibayli composed three comedies: "Husband and Wife" (1910), "If not this one, that one" (1911), and "Arshin Mal Alan" (1913).

"Arshin Mal Alan," or "The Cloth Peddler," stands out as one of his most beloved and enduring operettas.

This operetta has enjoyed widespread international success, with performances in numerous languages across over 60 countries, encompassing the U.S., Austria, France, China, Greece, India, Russia, and Turkiye.
19 November 2025 09:00 (UTC+04:00)

A high-level event dedicated to the issue of the declining Caspian Sea level was held at the Azerbaijan Pavilion during COP30 in the city of Belem, Brazil, Azernews reports, citing Azertag.

The event was organized at Azerbaijans initiative by the COP29 Presidency, the Ministry of Ecology and Natural Resources, and the Interim Secretariat of the Framework Convention for the Protection of the Marine Environment of the Caspian Sea (Tehran Convention).

The meeting was attended by heads and senior representatives of relevant environmental authorities from the Caspian littoral states, as well as senior officials from the UN Environment Programme (UNEP), UN-Habitat, the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), and other invited participants.

The event aimed to raise awareness of the historically rapid and multidimensional decline in the Caspian Sea level and to strengthen regional solidarity.

COP29 President and Azerbaijans Special Representative for Climate Affairs, Mukhtar Babayev, spoke about the impacts of the falling Caspian Sea level on ecosystems, coastal infrastructure and economic activity, as well as on the well-being of populations living in coastal areas. He emphasized that the challenges arising from this process can only be effectively addressed through joint efforts, scientifically grounded approaches, and regional coordination.

It was noted that the President of Azerbaijan has consistently raised this issue at the global levelat the 2022 Summit of the Heads of State of the Caspian Littoral Countries in Ashgabat and at the 80th session of the UN General Assembly this year. Azerbaijan has also proposed the establishment of a five-party joint working group to ensure coordinated action on the declining water level of the Caspian Sea.

Deputy Minister of Ecology and Natural Resources, Umayra Taghiyeva, emphasized that the Caspian Sea level has been steadily decreasing in recent years, accelerated by reduced river inflows, rising temperatures, and increased evaporation. She stressed the serious risks associated with future changes in sea level, highlighting the importance of scientifically based decisions, regional cooperation, and adaptation measures.

Representatives of Iran, Kazakhstan, Russia, and Turkmenistan provided detailed information on national observations, emerging scientific trends, and the priority areas identified by their governments for the Caspian basin. Discussions underscored the need to enhance the responsibility of Caspian littoral states, support science-based decision-making, and ensure unified, coordinated efforts across the region.

Additionally, representatives of UNEP, UN-Habitat and WMO expressed readiness to cooperate and provide technical support in strengthening observation and monitoring systems in the Caspian basin, supporting sustainable settlement and development planning for coastal communities, improving water balance assessments, and expanding scientific research across the region.

At the end of the meeting, the Joint Statement of Ministers and High-Level Representatives of the Caspian Littoral States on Strengthening Cooperation on the Declining Water Level of the Caspian Sea was adopted.

The statement refers to the Baku Declaration adopted at COP29 in Baku last year, highlighting that the Caspian states continue to uphold their previous commitments. It notes that the Baku Declaration laid the foundation for scientific cooperation, information exchange, and coordinated action, while the new Joint Statement adopted at COP30 aims to further strengthen efforts in this direction.

The document expresses intentions to enhance cooperation in scientific research, monitoring and information exchange. It also reflects a shared commitment to joint action with the UN system, the promotion of collaborative projects, and the long-term sustainable development and resilience of the Caspian region.

It should be noted that the issue of the declining Caspian Sea level has now been raised for the third consecutive timestarting from COP28at high-level events initiated by Azerbaijan within its pavilion at UN climate conferences.
19 November 2025 11:29 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

At the WINS & GABA Women Leadership Event held in Baku, the Founder of Africa Azerbaijan Cooperation (AFAZ), Rena Gafarova, captured significant attention with her inspiring keynote speech, Azernews reports.

The event was initiated and organized by Nazrin Sadiqova, owner of Spectr Medical Group, Founder of GABA Business Club, and Founder of the SABAH Charity Foundation. The gathering brought together women leaders from various sectors with the goal of strengthening womens entrepreneurship and leadership in Azerbaijan.

During her presentation, Rena Gafarova highlighted the life stories of Africas most courageous and transformative women leaders, showcasing their achievements as a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for Azerbaijani women.

She emphasized that the resilience of African women in the face of challenges, their perseverance in entrepreneurship, their unwavering commitment to community development, and their strong leadership spirit stand as a remarkable example for women everywheremirroring the character and determination of Azerbaijani women.

In her remarks, Rena Gafarova stated:

The life stories of African women carry tremendous strength, resilience, and a spirit of change. This energy is very close to the heart of Azerbaijani women as well. Women are the strongest bridge connecting continents.

Gafarova also underlined that one of the strategic priorities of Africa Azerbaijan Cooperation is to strengthen collaboration between African and Azerbaijani women in joint business, social, and development initiatives.

As part of this mission, the 2025 business trips to Ethiopia and Kenya will include:

dedicated meetings with women entrepreneurs,

discussions with leading womens business associations,

and the signing of key Memorandums of Understanding between womens entrepreneur unions of the participating countries.

Event organizer Nazrin Sadiqova highlighted the importance of uniting women both nationally and internationally, noting that such platforms create real opportunities for cooperation, growth, and leadership development.

Participants described Rena Gafarovas presentation and the stories of African women leaders as highly inspirational, empowering, and opening new pathways for future joint projects.
19 November 2025 11:09 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

The leaders of the Red Crescent Societies from Turkic States convened in Baku for a high-level meeting aimed at strengthening humanitarian cooperation and planning future initiatives.

Azernews reports that representatives from Turkiye, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstanmembers of the Red Crescent Networkattended the event, along with observer representatives from Turkmenistan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The main agenda of the meeting included a comprehensive review of the Network's activities in 2025, an evaluation of achievements in humanitarian collaboration among the member National Societies, and the development of the 2026 Action Plan.

The meeting is set to conclude with the signing of the Turkic Red Crescent Network Declaration, a document reaffirming mutual cooperation and solidarity among the member National Societies.

It is noteworthy that during last years meeting in Bishkek, the Red Crescent Societies of Turkic States established the Red Network platform, with Kyrgyzstan assuming the chairmanship. At this years gathering, the chairmanship has been passed on to the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society.
19 November 2025 11:38 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

It is a source of pride that the Organization of Turkic States (OTS), founded 16 years ago through the Nakhchivan Agreement, has grown into a respected international body both regionally and beyond.

Azernews reports that this statement was made by Samir Sharifov, Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, during the meeting of the Red Crescent Network of TSO member states held in Baku today.

Sharifov emphasized that the Gabala Declaration and other significant decisions will further strengthen the Turkic world. He noted: A unified position within the OTS and the establishment of joint mechanisms have become more important than ever.

He also highlighted that, in a short period, the OTS has developed cooperation formats in over 40 areas, including political and economic matters. Sharifov added: The increasingly complex international environment, marked by climate change, natural disasters, armed conflicts, forced migration, and other challenges, necessitates a coordinated and expanded humanitarian mechanism within the OTS framework.
19 November 2025 16:35 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

An official meeting was held at Baku State University (BSU) with a delegation led by the Deputy Minister of Higher Education and Training of the Republic of South Africa, Nomusa Dube-Ncube. The event took place at the Heydar Aliyev Lecture Hall with participation from BSU faculty, Azernews reports.

BSU Rector Elchin Babayev highlighted the prospects for scientific and educational cooperation between Azerbaijan and South Africa, noting the universitys focus on expanding its international partnerships.

Nomusa Dube-Ncube expressed her satisfaction with the visit and provided an overview of higher education reforms in South Africa, including advanced practices in vocational and personnel training aligned with labor market needs. She emphasized opportunities for expanding inter-university relations, promoting student and teacher exchanges, and developing scientific and research initiatives.

During the meeting, participants discussed joint masters and doctoral programs, digital education, innovative projects, and other areas of academic collaboration. The delegation also met with African students at BSU, learning about their educational experiences and academic plans, and praised the universitys multicultural environment and high academic standards.

The visit continued with a tour of BSUs educational buildings, museums, and laboratories, including presentations on the universitys scientific infrastructure and modern educational facilities.

The meeting is seen as a significant step in strengthening international cooperation and academic exchange for Azerbaijani higher education institutions.
19 November 2025 16:00 (UTC+04:00)

Akbar Novruz Read more

On November 19, Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs, Jeyhun Bayramov, received US Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs, Alison Hooker, Azernews reports, citing the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

During the meeting, both sides held a wide-ranging exchange of views on Azerbaijan-US bilateral cooperation, the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process, and regional and global security issues. Minister Bayramov recalled the agreements reached during the historic Washington meeting on August 8 and emphasized the importance of joint efforts to develop a strategic partnership between the two countries.

The discussion highlighted strengthening cooperation in regional stability, energy security, and the expansion of transport corridors. Bayramov stressed Azerbaijans interest in accelerating the implementation of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, aimed at ensuring unhindered connectivity between the main part of Azerbaijan and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

The meeting also reviewed the work of the Strategic Working Group to prepare a Strategic Partnership Charter, which will strengthen collaboration in areas of mutual interest, and emphasized the importance of creating an institutional framework for practical bilateral cooperation.

In addition, both parties discussed the agenda for peace and stability in the South Caucasus, upcoming directions of action within bilateral and multilateral platforms, and the situation in the Middle East and other regional issues. Minister Bayramov also briefed the US delegation on the steps taken in the post-conflict normalization and reconstruction processes in Azerbaijan.
19 November 2025 16:48 (UTC+04:00)

Qabil Ashirov Read more

Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, met with a United States delegation led by Alison Hooker, Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Political Affairs.

Azernews reports that Hajiyev announced the meeting on his official X account, expressing satisfaction with the discussions. I was pleased to meet with the US delegation led by Deputy Assistant Secretary of State Alison Hooker. Our talks covered a wide range of issues, including progress on the ArmeniaAzerbaijan peace agenda and the implementation of regional connectivity initiatives. We also exchanged views on key regional and global developments, reaffirming the spirit of strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the United States, Hajiyev wrote.

The meeting highlights ongoing diplomatic engagement between Baku and Washington, underscoring both sides interest in advancing peace and cooperation in the South Caucasus.
19 November 2025 22:23 (UTC+04:00)

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Belfast Harbour has started a public consultation into a draft masterplan for the next 25 years

Belfast Harbour has started a public consultation on expansion ambitions for the next 25 years which it says will require changes to its accounting status to realise.

It said the 2025-50 draft masterplan aims to improve its ability to drive trade, tourism, clean growth and innovation, while shaping new places to work, visit, live and invest in.

https://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/editorial/web/newsletter/qs/business.js

The masterplan includes Belfasts first land reclamation project for 25 years to build a new freight terminal; shore power for docked ships; wharf redevelopment for larger cargo vessels, regeneration to create residential neighbourhoods and a new clean energy hub.

But it said large parts of its plans rely on its accounting status as a public corporation to be changed so that it can prudently borrow to fund bigger projects.

It said: The NI Executive is supportive of change and Belfast Harbour is hopeful for legislation from the Assembly to enable a solution.

Belfast Harbour said the masterplan was informed by forecasts that its trade volumes could grow from 24 million tonnes today to up to 40 million by 2050  which would require additional capacity.

According to Ulster University research, the harbour handles goods and freight valued at 26.7bn each year.

Dr Theresa Donaldson, chair of Belfast Harbour Commissioners

Dr Theresa Donaldson, chair of Belfast Harbour, said: Belfast Harbour benefits from having a large land area with prime deepwater access. This gives us room to grow.

"Our plan shows how we could use that advantage to become the leading port on the DublinBelfast Economic Corridor while deepening trade and transport links globally and with Great Britain.

"With the help of this draft masterplan, we are on track to become one of the fastest-growing ports in the UK by 2050.

Belfast Harbour has started a public consultation into a draft masterplan for the next 25 years

News Catch Up - Tuesday 18 November

She said the plan was both ambitious and practical. It shows how Belfast Harbour can continue to grow as a competitive gateway to global markets and still be somewhere people are proud to live, work, study, or visit.

And she said it would be a living document" which would respond to changing needs in the next 25 years, adding: The draft is written for everyone who has a stake in Belfast Harbour, now or in the years ahead and the consultation process is designed to make sure every voice can be heard.

And eight week public consultation runs from now until mid-January. Details can be found at www.belfast-harbour.co.uk/masterplan

Four temporary drop-in exhibitions will be held at venues across Belfast, supported by a display at Belfast Harbour Offices.
An asset-based lender in Northern Ireland is backing a renewable power firm's developments across the border in a multi-million pound investment.

Upstream ABL in Belfast said its partnership with Strategic Power Group (SPG) meant it was helping create some of the Republic's biggest solar and battery developments.

The deal is one of Upstream ABLs largest to date since it announced 150m in funding from Londons Pollen Street Capital, following a management buyout (MBO) earlier this year.

SPG bought out a London investor this year and will use the new finance to further develop its pipeline solar PV and battery storage facilities, including one at Swordlestown, Co Kildare.

Its investing in several sites to develop solar PV and battery energy storage systems (BESS) across the island of Ireland.

John Metcalfe, Upstream ABLs acquisition manager, said: Across a wide spectrum of industries - from manufacturing, hospitality and wholesale through to engineering, technology and now renewable energy  structured asset-based lending works.

"Flexible funding solutions that release capital to ignite projects, ideas, and innovation to help companies deliver on opportunities that could otherwise be lost.

SPG has already established itself as a future-focused, world class solar PV and battery storage development business that will support the Irish governments renewable energy ambitions, and were delighted to join Paul and the team as a funding partner to help enable its success.

From left, John Metcalf, Upstream ABLs acquisition manager with Iain Lees, Strategic Power Groups finance director

News Catch Up - Tuesday 18 November

Iain Lees, finance director at Strategic Power Group, said: We are delighted to be working with Upstream ABL on this exciting pipeline of projects which helps to unlock an important opportunity to support the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland increase energy security, contribute to their renewable energy targets, and support economic growth and jobs.

Developments such as Swordlestown are not only essential to meeting renewable energy goals, but also to achieving the wider goal of decarbonising the economy in Ireland in line with the Climate Action Plan.

Strategic Power Group has grown substantially over the last five years which includes the successful development and sale of three major projects so far and a substantial pipeline still in development.

"Now that we are 100% locally owned by the management team, were excited that Upstream ABL has joined us in this important sustainability journey.
From left, Shauneen Armstrong, Baker McKenzie Belfast charity committee member with Lisa Abell Farrelly, fundraising manager for PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland

The Belfast centre of global law firm Baker McKenzie has announced a charity partnership with PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland.

Its Belfast team, based at City Quays One, will support the mental health and crisis support organisation through fundraising, awareness-raising activities and joint wellbeing initiatives.

It will also work alongside PIPS Charity to deliver educational sessions and campaigns throughout the year, which is said would help create a more open, informed conversation around mental wellbeing in Northern Ireland.

PIPS Charity provides support services to individuals and families affected by suicide, including a walk-in crisis centre and access to free, unlimited counselling for those in need.

The charity says that its decision to remain independent of statutory funding enables them to offer tailored support without postcode restrictions, adapting services to the needs of each individual.

James Richards, executive director of Baker McKenzies Belfast centre, said: Were proud to be partnering with PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland as our new charity partner.

"The work they do is incredibly important, especially here in Northern Ireland, where suicide, particularly among men, continues to affect far too many families.

We believe its important to talk about mental health openly and support those striving to make a difference.

"At Baker McKenzie Belfast, were looking forward to raising funds, increasing the visibility of PIPS Charity, and encouraging more honest conversations around mental wellbeing.

From left, Shauneen Armstrong, Baker McKenzie Belfast charity committee member with Lisa Abell Farrelly, fundraising manager for PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland

The story behind Belfast's 'Alec the Goose' tribute outside St George's Market in Belfast

Lisa Abell-Farrelly, fundraising manager for PIPS Suicide Prevention Ireland, said: This partnership with Baker McKenzie Belfast will help us continue delivering free, accessible support to people in crisis, while raising vital awareness around suicide prevention.

"Were looking forward to working together to make a real difference in communities across Northern Ireland.
Late Late Toy Show review: Kielty enters the arena with a look on his face that says exactly what were all thinking  hes the right man for the job
Order breach: Boxer had torched ex-partners car

Hammer thug James Burns was in back in court charged with intimidating an ex-partner just four days before he admitted assaulting cops at Aldergrove Airport.

As revealed last month, the 34-year-old livestreamed himself threatening cops at Belfast International Airport after he was ejected for being drunk and for assaulting an airport worker.
Former Alliance chief launches stinging attack on departing Presbyterian Church moderator

Alderdice accuses the PCI of bid to cover up safeguarding failures

Lord Alderdice

Brett Campbell Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 07:25

One of the authors of a dossier alleging bullying and abuse within the Presbyterian Church in Ireland (PCI) has rubbished the outgoing moderators claim that he was not directly responsible for safeguarding failures.
Politicians in Northern Ireland could be given special dispensation in the European Parliament in preparation for a united Ireland.

The Telegraph has reported that more than a dozen MEPs have written to President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola requesting special observer status for NI representatives.

Observer status in the European Parliament allows non-member states or organisations to participate in certain activities without the right to vote.

Unionist politicians have opposed the proposal.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson told The Telegraph: Northern Ireland needs freedom from EU shackles, not new ties to Brussels.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson questioned the witness (Peter Morrison/PA)

This proposal is about symbolism rather than solutions for Northern Ireland traders.

The United Kingdom already has official routes for engagement with the EU.

The Telegraph obtained a leaked letter from the group, mainly composed of Irish MEPs.

They argue that the move will be keeping the door open to the European project for the people of Northern Ireland should reunification happen.

The letter was signed by several members of Sinn Fein.

The MEPs wrote: We believe that the union should recognise this unique position and offer observer status to Northern Ireland political representatives in the European Parliament.

They added: This would require a request from the UK government, however, we see no reason why the European Parliament could not indicate its willingness to respond positively to such a request.

Sinn Fein MLA Declan Kearney

Sinn Fein national chairman, Declan Kearney, told The Telegraph his party had long called for the observer status.

We also want to see an EU office opened in this region. Our party has repeatedly made the case for both with EU commissioners, diplomats and senior politicians, he said.

We are committed to continuing to work with the EU to undo the damage caused by Brexit and ultimately deliver a united Ireland that fully restores our place in the European Union.

During the Brexit negotiations in 2017, the Republic secured a guarantee from Brussels that NI would automatically rejoin the EU in the event of Irish unity.

A majority of the NI population voted against Brexit.

People born here are also entitled to an Irish passport under the Good Friday Agreement, meaning many still consider themselves EU citizens.

The Windsor Framework also remains in the single market for goods with the Irish MEPs saying the NI population should therefore have representation in EU institutions to enhance democratic legitimacy and uphold the principles of the peace process.

Sinn Fein wants a vote on reunification to be held by 2030.

President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola. Photo: Getty

The story behind Belfast's 'Alec the Goose' tribute outside St George's Market in Belfast

The Good Friday Agreement states that a referendum must be called by the UK government if it appears likely a majority wants it.

However, NI Secretary Hilary Benn, recently poured cold water on the prospect of a border poll, saying is way off in the distance.
The landmark ruling was delivered at the Supreme Court on Wednesday (Jordan Pettitt/PA)

The provision of Christian religious education in Northern Ireland schools does not comply with human rights standards and is unlawful, the UK Supreme Court has ruled.

In a landmark judgment, the court upheld an appeal brought by a pupil at a Belfast school and her father and reinstated an earlier court ruling that the teaching of RE and collective worship breaches human rights as it does not approach the subject in an objective, critical and pluralist manner.

Stormonts Department of Education has said it will provide advice to schools on the complex judgment in the near future.

The pupil, known as JR87, was at a controlled primary school in Belfast in 2019 when, as part of the curriculum, she took part in non-denominational Christian religious education and collective worship.

Her parents wrote a letter to the school voicing concerns that their daughters education did not appear to conform with their own religious and philosophical convictions.

In a reply, the school confirmed its provision of religious education and collective worship was Bible-based and that it followed the core syllabus for education.

The Supreme Court has delivered a ruling over the teaching of religious education in schools (Danny Lawson/PA)

JR87 and her father, known as G, challenged the legality of this and sought judicial review against the Department of Education.

Their lawyers argued the religious education and collective worship in the school contravened their human rights requiring the state to provide education to respect the right of parents to ensure such education is in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions.

The High Court in Belfast found in favour of the family in 2022 and said the Christian RE taught and collective worship in schools in Northern Ireland is unlawful.

However, this was overturned by the Court of Appeal, so the family took their case to the Supreme Court.

In a unanimous judgment delivered on Wednesday, the UKs highest court allowed the appeal brought by JR87 and G and dismissed a cross-appeal brought by the department.

Delivering the judgment, Lord Stephens said: The Court of Appeal was wrong in its application of established principles of ECHR law and should not have departed from the (High Court) judges finding that the parents had valid concerns in relation to withdrawing JR87 from religious education and collective worship.

Furthermore, the Court of Appeal fell into error in making a distinction between indoctrination and the state conveying information or knowledge in a manner which was not objective, critical, and pluralistic.

The concepts are two sides of the same coin: conveying knowledge in a manner that is not objective, critical, and pluralistic amounts to pursuing the aim of indoctrination.

Lord Stephens also said the Court of Appeal ought to have found that having to withdraw JR87 from religious education was capable of placing an undue burden on her parents.

He said the judgment was not about secularism in the education system and made clear that no one is suggesting that RE should not be provided in schools in Northern Ireland.

Lord Stephens added: The family strongly support the provision of religious education provided it does not amount to indoctrination.

Solicitor Darragh Mackin said the ruling is a watershed moment for educational rights in Northern Ireland (Liam McBurney/PA)

Responding to the judgment, Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law, solicitor for JR87 and her father, said it was a watershed moment for educational rights.

He said: The Supreme Court has confirmed that all children are entitled to an education that respects their freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

The judgment makes clear that the State cannot rely on withdrawal mechanisms to justify religious instruction.

Schools must not place children in the impossible position of being singled out or stigmatised simply because their families do not share the religious worldview embedded in the curriculum.

A Department of Education spokesperson said: The department notes the UK Supreme Courts judgment.

We will carefully consider the complex judgment and its implications and will provide advice to schools in the near future.

Former education minister Michelle McIlveen said the ruling was deeply disappointing (Brian Lawless/PA)

DUP deputy leader and former education minister in Northern Ireland Michelle McIlveen described the court ruling as deeply disappointing.

She said: While we respect the court and the legal process, this ruling will concern many parents, governors, teachers and faith communities across Northern Ireland for whom the ethos is so important.

For generations, Christian values have shaped the moral character of our school system.

Through assemblies, school activities and the everyday life of the classroom, those values have helped form young people with integrity and respect for others.

That heritage is not something we apologise for, nor is it something we are prepared to see diminished.

Humanists UK has called on the UK Government to urgently review the RE and collective worship laws in state schools in England.

Education campaigns manager Lewis Young said: Todays judgment makes it crystal clear that you cannot respect families human rights simply by telling them they can opt out of a system that is, at its core, religiously one-sided.

In light of this ruling, the position on faith-based RE and collective worship has become impossible to justify.

The UK Government must urgently review the RE and collective worship laws in England and move to replace them with inclusive assemblies and teaching that respect every childs freedom of belief.
Ryanair puts the blame on Belfast-bound passenger who ended up in Portugal

Airline claims NI traveller failed to follow correct route to his plane

The passenger ended up in Porto instead of Belfast

Abdullah Sabri Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 07:00

An airline has blamed a passenger who claims staff blunders caused him to board the wrong flight and end up in Portugal rather than Belfast.
A TUV MP has said he is deeply disturbed by a court ruling on religious education, as the DUP vows to stand up for Christian ethos of NI schools.
Partitioning of UK behind problems buying tumble dryers in NI, says TUV

Residents have voiced concerns after being unable to source the items online

Jim Allister MP

Liam Tunney Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 07:45

Problems being experienced by Northern Ireland residents attempting to buy tumble dryers online are down to the partitioning of the UK, an MP has said.
Police on the platform by the train at Huntingdon station (Chris Radburn/PA)

A court has heard a man accused over a mass stabbing on a high-speed train in Cambridgeshire will face seven further offences including two more counts of attempted murder.

Anthony Williams, 32, is charged with the attempted murder of a 14-year-old boy, who cannot be named for legal reasons, and the attempted murder of a 22-year-old man, William Ogelby.

The two separate incidents are both said to have happened in Peterborough on October 31, the former at a footbridge above Henry Penn Walk and the latter at Rail World car park.

Williams, who did not appear at Wednesdays hearing at Peterborough Magistrates Court, is also accused of the attempted wounding of 28-year-old Dawid Taborski.

A forensic investigator on the platform by the train at Huntingdon station after the stabbing attack (Joe Giddens/PA)

It is alleged that this happened at a footbridge above Henry Penn Walk in Peterborough, also on October 31.

Williams is also charged with affray at Ritzys Barbers in Queens Walk, Peterborough, an incident said to have happened on October 31.

He is also accused of the theft of a pack of knives, described in a court document as a four-pack of kitchen knives to the value of 15 from an Asda store in Stevenage.

This theft was said to have happened on October 31.

Williams is charged with the assault of Jordan Morley on a Kings Cross to Peterborough train on November 1.

He is also charged with possessing a bladed article in a public place at a footbridge near Henry Penn Walk, the Rail World car park and Queens Walk, all in Peterborough, on October 31.

Prosecutor Faye Rolfe said following the hearing that the two counts of attempted murder and the attempted wounding were alleged to have happened at around 7pm on October 31.

She said the affray at the barbershop was alleged to have happened at around 7.20pm, and the theft was alleged to have happened at around 10.30pm.

Williams is also charged with affray at Ritzys Barbers in Queens Walk, Peterborough (Joe Giddens/PA)

Ms Rolfe said the common assault was alleged to have happened at around 7am on November 1.

Williams, who did not attend Wednesdays hearing, was not asked to enter pleas and no application for bail was made.

District judge Ken Sheraton remanded Williams, of Langford Road, Peterborough, in custody until a hearing at Cambridge Crown Court on December 17.

Earlier this month, Williams was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates Court charged over a mass stabbing on an LNER train from Doncaster to London on November 1.

He was charged with 10 counts of attempted murder over the incident on the train, which led to 11 people being treated at hospital.

He is also accused of the attempted murder of a 17-year-old on a DLR train at Pontoon Dock in east London.

Williams is due to appear before Cambridge Crown Court in relation to these charges on December 1.
Larry Summers, right, said he would be stepping back from public commitments (New York State Sex Offender Registry via AP/Michel Euler)

Harvard University has reopened an investigation into connections between its former president Larry Summers and Jeffrey Epstein, a university spokesperson said, as Mr Summers office said he would resign from the board of OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT.

Regarded as a leading voice on the US economy, Mr Summers was also affiliated with multiple think tanks, research centres and media organisations. Several of these confirmed their affiliations had ended.

Harvard did not mention Mr Summers by name, but the decision to restart the investigation follows the release of emails showing that Mr Summers, a former US treasury secretary, maintained a friendly relationship with Epstein long after the financier pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl in 2008.

The university is conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents to evaluate what actions may be warranted, spokesperson Jason Newton said in a statement first reported by The Boston Globe and The Harvard Crimson.

Larry Summers, pictured, said his association with Jeffrey Epstein was a major error in judgment (Michael Dwyer/AP)

An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex-crimes conviction and was given his own office and unfettered access to a research centre he helped establish.

The professor who provided the office was later barred from starting new research or advising students for at least two years.

Mr Summers said late on Monday that he would step back from public commitments. His office said on Wednesday this included resigning from the board of directors of OpenAI.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress, he said in a statement.

The OpenAI board said it appreciated Mr Summers contributions and perspective.

Mr Summers joined the OpenAI board in November 2023, part of an effort to restore stability at the not-for-profit organisation and bring back its chief executive, Sam Altman, after previous board members fired Mr Altman days earlier.

Mr Summers appeared before his economics class on Tuesday and addressed his involvement with Epstein.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr Epstein and that Ive said that Im going to step back from public activities for a while. But I think its very important to fulfil my teaching obligations, he said.

Mr Summers remarks were captured on video by Harvard student Rosie Couture, who shared the video online.

Epstein, who authorities said died by suicide in 2019, was a convicted sex offender known for his connections to wealthy and powerful people, making him a fixture of outrage and conspiracy theories about wrongdoing among American elites.

Mr Summers served as treasury secretary from 1999 to 2001 under former US president Bill Clinton.

He was Harvards president for five years from 2001 to 2006.

When asked about the emails last week, Mr Summers issued a statement saying he had great regrets in my life and that his association with Epstein was a major error in judgment.

Other organisations that confirmed the end of their affiliations with Mr Summers included the Centre for American Progress, the Centre for Global Development and the Budget Lab at Yale University.

Bloomberg TV said Mr Summers withdrawal from public commitments included his role as a paid contributor, and the New York Times said it would not renew his contract as a contributing opinion writer.
For decades the various school sectors in Northern Ireland have made the right noises about being welcoming to all. It has also been the case that what is said has not always been matched by what happens when pupils go through the doors.
Childrens martial arts teacher given the chop over f*** Islam chant at far-right rally in Belfast

Martial arts school says freelance instructor had to go after unacceptable racist tirade

Nicola Cree

John Toner Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 14:00

A childrens martial arts instructor has been sacked after she was filmed repeatedly screaming f*** Islam at a far-right rally.
Pokemon pervert thrown back in jail over stash of depraved images

Carrick man who masturbated in front of teenager caged for seven months over new offences

Dean McBride leaving court in August

Staff Reporter Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 19:45

Pokemon pervert Dean McBride is back behind bars for possessing a stash of images depicting the sexual abuse of children.
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BENNINGTON  The victim of a years-long sexual assault, which started when he was just 4-years-old, testified in open court on Tuesday about the alleged abuse he suffered at the hands of the defendant, Levi Varno of Pownal.

Varno, now 30, is currently standing trial on four counts of sexual assault on a child. Two of the charges relate to the period between 2011 and 2013. The other two charges relate to incidents between 2013 and 2016. Each of the four counts carry the possibility of a life sentence if Varno is found guilty.

In a low, almost whispering voice, the victim  now a young adult  recalled the abuse. The victim became visibly emotional as both sides questioned the events that allegedly took place over the course of several years between himself, Varno, and his twin brother, who died at the age of 12 and, according to a police affidavit and witness statements within an affidavit, was also allegedly abused.

A second witness, the victims paternal grandmother, testified on direct examination about an incident she recalled when she overheard both boys, soon after the alleged assaults began, ask each other whether they should tell her their secret.

Both boys shared details of alleged sexual contact with Varno, then 16, when they were four, she testified. A report was made to authorities back then, but the alleged assaults never resulted in charges being filed.

A videotaped Department of Children and Families interview with the victim in 2011 was unable to establish enough evidence to confirm a crime was committed, and investigators never fully established whether the child knew the difference between the truth and a lie, according to court documents and testimony.

On cross-examination, Varnos defense attorney, Josh Stern, aimed to establish doubt around the victim's recollection due to his age and potential mental health issues. Stern also alluded that issues between the mother and fathers families while the twins were growing up could be a possible avenue for reasonable doubt, as to whether the abuse actually occurred or if it was the result of familial pressure.

The DCF investigator who interviewed the victim back in 2011 confirmed under questioning from Stern that she was unable to establish whether the young victim knew the difference between the truth and a lie at the time.

According to an affidavit in the case, Manchester Police were notified in the summer of 2024 of the possible sexual assault by the father of the victim. The father reported that his child, by then a young adult, texted him that Varno, who lived for a time with the victim, had raped him and his brother starting in 2011 when they were 4-years old.

According to the affidavit, the abuse started when both boys were living at the Dufresne Trailer Park in Manchester. The alleged assaults were frequent and in many locations. Varno, a family member, reportedly used to babysit the twins frequently at the time.

The affidavit states that charges against Varno's mother Angel, whose photograph appeared on the front cover of the Bennington Banner, prompted the victim to text his father about his own assault years earlier. The victim disclosed to his father that Angel Varno had walked in and saw Levi raping him, walked out, and shut the door," according to court documents.

Varno has a history of sex crimes with minors in Vermont. Last May he pleaded guilty to two counts of sexual assault, one with a minor and one without consent, as part of a plea deal with prosecutors. He is scheduled for a contested sentencing hearing in January 2026.

According to the affidavit in that case, a call was received by the Department of Children and Families in July of 2021 from the Sunrise Family Resource Center in Bennington regarding a female minor. The alleged victim's brother had reported to an SFRC employee that his younger sister was sleeping with then-24-year-old Varno. The victim had been living inside the Varno residence for seven months during the allegedly ongoing assaults.

A supervisor at DCF received a call that same day from a doctor alerting them that the victim was pregnant. An investigation ensued, with the victim denying Varno was the father. A baby was born to the victim in March of 2022. During an interview with a case worker in November of 2022, the victim acknowledged Varno as the father and expressed a desire to be with him when she turned 16. A subsequent DNA swab confirmed Varno as the father.

Varno was arrested soon after a police interview where he allegedly confessed to being the father of the victims baby. Varnos mother Angel was also charged in the case. Angel Varno reportedly knew about the sexual relationship and allowed it to happen in her home. Her case is still pending.

Levi Varnos trial resumes for a second day on Wednesday, Nov. 19.
Larry Moquin is a second generation member of the Laborers International Union of North America, where he serves as business manager of Local 668. He also serves as president of the Vermont AFL-CIO advocating for workers rights in the Green Mountain state. The opinions expressed by columnists and op-ed writers do not necessarily reflect the views of Vermont News & Media.
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PITTSFIELD  As a child, Jamie Cote felt powerless as her mother struggled with addiction and eventually lost her life. Cote, sole operator of the No Matter What Sober House, looks at her residents as if they were her mother, and she is eager to help them.

I want to help no matter what that looks like, Cote said. This is what keeps me going. This is what makes me happy.

Cote will be gearing up to help more individuals in the recovery process as the No Matter What Sober House is expanding to become a split-house recovery residence. The house, which currently serves women and is located at 278 Onota St., will soon provide a safe and supportive environment for men as well.

Its more of an independence for those who are in early recovery, Cote said. We want to give everybody that outlet and everybody that chance.

It will also be the only split-house recovery residence in Berkshire County, Cote said. She announced the news on Nov. 7 on Facebook and said that its been a long-term goal for the house, driven by its commitment to addressing limited housing and recovery resources in the Berkshires.

The No Matter What Sober House offers an opportunity for individuals in early recovery to build a stable foundation by providing a safe, drug- and alcohol-free environment, peer support and structure rooted in the 12-step recovery model, a home-like atmosphere and leadership from a qualified operator.

The home is part of Vanderburgh Sober Living, a network of chartered operators supported by the nonprofit Vanderburgh Foundation. The foundation exists to ensure every person in recovery has access to a supportive sober living community and has roughly 38 homes across eight states.

The Pittsfield home is led by an experienced house mentor who lives in the home, and sober living guests participate in weekly house meetings and community activities.

The house, which has been open for a little over three years, is expanding from having eight beds to 18. It will have men on one side of the house and women on the other in separate units. Cote said they are hoping to start the expansion before Thanksgiving and have a full house by Christmas Day.

Cote also said the team members are hopeful that the expansion will be a success and that they are currently sending out blast emails to try to get applications.

The expansion was a result of an increased demand for recovery options for men and women, Cote said. The house currently has four residents, making it a perfect time to push for more individuals, she said.

The biggest impact of the expansion will be getting more people off the streets, Cote said.

Cote, who has been with Vanderburgh since July, also is the sole operator of a home in Springfield and Greenfield and has worked in the recovery field for eight years.

The Onota Street home is my baby, said Cote, who has lived in Pittsfield her whole life.

Cote said the house allows individuals to work right away and that they have more freedom, which is not always the case at other recovery houses. Although the house does have rules and restrictions, Cote said the individuals are given more leeway.

I think that many struggle with being told what to do, how to do it, but thats their recovery, she said. Its their way, and if their way works, were there to support them.

A challenge the house is facing is income for individuals, which is why they waived the $200 move-in deposit for October and November. Residents still have to pay the weekly rate of $180, Cote said, adding that they are trying to get the $200 fee waived for December as well.

At home, individuals can cook, watch television and interact with their roommates. Cote said they are also encouraged to get involved with the community and that the residents love volunteering.

Vanderburgh is all about community, she said, adding that one thing they do for the community is donate to local food pantries.

The home has a dorm style with most bedrooms containing two beds, and they have a table with helpful recovery resources.

The recovery community is growing in the Berkshires, and Cote said it's important to make sure that peoples voices are heard. Cote said that her position is an around-the-clock job, and it's important for her to always be available for her residents.

[Its] raising that awareness and letting people know that its not OK [to have an addiction] but it's OK to come forward and say you need the help, she said. I think that is the biggest step in recovery.

Cote said its also important for individuals to take advantage of the resources available in the Berkshires, like Berkshire Harm Reduction, the Brien Center, and many others.

The whole goal is to keep these people that we accept sober and clean, and we want them to have a base when they leave, she said. We want [them] to have a foundation.
With a total of 1,088 native shrubs planted along the shoreline on the south side of Pontoosuc Lake Park on Hancock Road, some fishermen say they are being denied access. But the city says the plantings are necessary for the health of the shoreline.
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Healthium Medtech signs MoU with Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board

November 19, 2025 | Wednesday | News

MoU involves a planned Rs 150 crore investment to create Unit 2

image credit- shutterstock

Bengaluru-based Healthium Medtech, a global medtech company with a growing portfolio across surgical, post-surgical, advanced wound care, arthroscopy and infection prevention, has announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Andhra Pradesh Economic Development Board (APEDB).

Under this MoU, Healthium will set up Healthium Medtech Unit 2 across 5 acres in Sri City Industrial Park, Sri City with a planned investment of Rs 150 crore, to be made in two phases.

The new unit marks an expansion of Healthium Medtechs existing presence in Sri City, where the company commenced operations in 2012 at the SEZ (Special Economic Zone) facility. The current unit manufactures sutures and meshes and the addition of Unit 2 consolidates the companys foothold in a region that has matured into a competitive hub for medtech manufacturing.

The proposed facility is expected to create 300 direct jobs within the factory premises by 2027, covering both payroll and contract roles. In addition, around 100 indirect opportunities are likely to be generated through supply chain activities, logistics, services and ancillary units. This development coincides with Indias medtech market trajectory toward $30 billion by 2030, highlighting the growing demand for advanced manufacturing capacity and a skilled workforce to sustain sectoral growth.

By creating new jobs and adding to its production footprint, the project is positioned to strengthen local workforce participation and open up long term career pathways in the State. The new unit will expand Healthium Medtechs production capabilities across the surgical, post-surgical and chronic care segments.

Healthium Medtechs decision to expand is a significant step in strengthening Andhra Pradeshs medical devices value chain. By bringing new investment, specialised skills and supporting industries to the region, the partnership is poised to deliver sustained economic impact and advance the States industrial development agenda.


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China will firmly respond to any external interference in its internal affairs

09:38, November 19, 2025 By Yang Bojiang, Tang Yongliang ( People's Daily

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations, and the 80th anniversary of Japan's defeat.

At such a historically significant moment, the provocative remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan and her refusal to retract them constitute a blatant challenge to the post-war international order, a serious breach of China-Japan relations, and an open affront to China's core interests.

Taiwan's return to China is an important outcome of the victory of World War II and a cornerstone of the post-war international order. In 1894, Japan launched the First Sino-Japanese War and forced the Qing government to sign the unequal Treaty of Shimonoseki the following year, seizing Taiwan and occupying it for 50 years. In 1945, Japan signed the Instrument of Surrender and formally accepted international legal documents including the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, which stipulated the return of Taiwan to China. As territory once seized through aggression, Taiwan was rightfully restored to China both legally and factually.

Upholding the one-China principle is a solemn political commitment that Japan must continue to honor. In 1972, the two countries signed the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement and officially established diplomatic relations. Article 3 of the statement affirms that the Government of Japan fully understands and respects this stand of the Government of the People's Republic of China, and it firmly maintains its stand under Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation. When the two countries signed the Treaty of Peace and Friendship in 1978, they codified the principles of this joint statement in legally binding form.

The third and fourth political documents between China and Japan, issued in 1998 and 2008, reaffirmed Japan's commitment to the position on the Taiwan question set forth in the joint statement. The China-Japan Joint Declaration on Establishing a Partnership of Friendship and Cooperation for Peace and Development released in 1998 explicitly stated that Japan undertook to "continue to maintain its stand on the Taiwan question which was set forth in the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement" and "reiterated its understanding that there is one China." It is stated in the document that Japan will continue to only maintain its exchanges of private and regional nature with Taiwan, which ruled out the legal possibility of Japan developing official relations with Taiwan.

In 2007, during then Japanese Prime Minister Yasuo Fukuda's visit to China, the Japanese side further clarified that it would not pursue "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan," that it does not support "Taiwan independence," and that it does not support Taiwan seeking to "join" the United Nations, nor any "United Nations membership referendum."

In contrast to these solemn commitments, Takaichi's recent remarks starkly contradict the principles established in these foundational documents, undermining the political foundation and mutual trust that underpin China-Japan relations.

Should Japan attempt to interfere in China's internal affairs by force, it will undoubtedly face a firm and determined response from China. Japan's militarist aggression inflicted immense suffering on the Chinese people during the 14-year war of invasion, with atrocities too numerous to recount. Under extremely difficult domestic and international conditions, the Chinese people persevered with extraordinary resilience and ultimately secured victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Japan's militarist aggression also brought devastating consequences upon its own people, and its post-war Pacifist Constitution emerged from reflection on the lessons of war. However, by disregarding the foundations of Japan's post-war economic and social development -- rooted in a commitment to peace and historical accountability -- Takaichi appears intent on reviving its historical path of militarism driven by populist sentiment.

Any political attempt to exploit the Taiwan question for military expansion or any form of military adventurism that disregards prevailing global trends and China's resolve for national reunification, will be met with resolute countermeasures by the Chinese people. Such actions are bound to draw firm opposition from peace-loving nations across Asia.

(Yang Bojiang, Tang Yongliang are distinguished research fellows with the Research Center for Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era, Chinese Academy of Social Sciences.)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
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More than 7,200 applications were received for 161 new homes at a major Dublin cost-rental scheme development, Tuath Housing has confirmed.

Cost-rental offers tenants secure leases at rates that are a minimum of 25 per cent below market rates. At the Santry development, rents are 30 per cent below market levels.

Tuath officially opened 255 new ultra-low-energy homes at Whitehaven in Santry - its first Passive House scheme and among the largest of its kind in the State.

Whitehaven - developed with Cairn and Fingal County Council - is one of Irelands first social housing schemes built to Passive House standard, featuring triple glazing, airtight construction, heat-recovery ventilation, and design measures to reduce damp, mould and noise.

Launching its second Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Report at the development, Tuath said the demand for Whitehavens Cost Rental properties showed the urgent need for long-term, affordable homes in Dublin.

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Tuath expects to deliver almost 2,300 new social and cost-rental schem homes this year, bringing its total supply to more than 7,000 over the past three years.

According to the AHB, 82% of its homes meet NZEB or BER A2 energy performance, and all new homes have met NZEB standards since 2021. More than 600 older properties have been retrofitted to reduce energy bills and emissions.

However, the organisation warned of sector-wide challenges, including the cost and complexity of upgrading older homes and the difficulties in retrofitting apartment buildings managed by owner management companies.

Officially launching the development and the ESG Report, Minister for Housing James Browne said: We need more homes like these across all tenures. Our goal is to make sustainable housing standard.

As materials and expertise become more available, the cost of building sustainably keeps falling, allowing us to deliver long-term environmental and social value as a standard, not an exception, he said.

Cairn chief executive Michael Stanley said almost 700 people would soon live in the scheme and that Passive House design would deliver long-term energy savings and high-quality living. Cairn and Tuath are currently working on 268 further homes at Niven Oaks, due for completion in 2026.

Speaking on Tuaths ESG commitments, Will McCabe, director of the board, said: Every new home we provide is an opportunity to do better.
A judge at the Central Criminal Court has expressed his sympathy to an "unfortunate" father who has attended court over 13 times, only to be told there is further delay in engaging a forensic psychiatrist to assess his wife, who is charged with the murder of their six-year-old son.

Mr Justice Paul McDermott said it is "completely unacceptable" that the State wasn't in a position to facilitate the trial process in securing psychiatric assessments within the State, but remarked that he could only express his frustration with this "inadequacy".

The judge said he hoped the executive "will act" to provide the services and set up "a reliable structure" for psychiatric assessments to see whether a mental condition could have played a role in a defendant's alleged offending.

Ruth Purcell Healy (37), of Bishops Field, Williamstown, Waterford, is charged with the murder of her six-year-old son Matthew Healy on February 9th, 2024. The child was found unresponsive around midnight near Rathmoylan Cove, Dunmore East, and was later pronounced dead at University Hospital Waterford.

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Although psychiatric issues are explored in as many as 20 per cent of murder trials in Ireland, there is no legal obligation for HSE-employed psychiatrists to provide assessments for criminal cases.

While the Central Mental Hospital has a panel of experienced forensic psychiatrists employed by the HSE, they are under no contractual obligation to provide reports for either prosecution or defence teams. Currently, there is no definitive panel of psychiatrists available to lawyers to conduct assessments.

Addressing Mr Justice McDermott, the judge overseeing the trial list at the Central Criminal Court, senior counsel Brendan Grehan, for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said despite the best efforts of his solicitor the prosecution has been unable to attain the services of a consultant forensic psychiatrist in Ireland to prepare a psychiatric report on Ms Purcell Healy in response to a defence psychiatric report.

Counsel added: "That's despite her [the solicitor] having contacted over ten different psychiatrists and gotten a response from the interim director of the Central Mental Hospital, which is to the effect that it is not the contractual responsibility of psychiatrists working for the HSE to provide reports for State solicitors or the defence."

Mr Grehan said Matthew Healy's father had attended court "over 13 times" to date and was present again today. "I've spoken to him, it's a very difficult situation for all involved as we are rapidly approaching the second anniversary of the death of his young son," said the barrister.

Last January, when Ms Purcell Healy's case was listed before the court, Mr Justice McDermott noted that defence lawyers for the accused had spent several months trying to procure the services of a psychiatrist. A defence psychiatric report concerning the accused was furnished to the prosecution in September of this year.

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Mr Grehan said today that the prosecution was left in circumstances where all it can do is ask the court to list the matter for the week before Christmas so that all efforts could be made to get a psychiatrist to provide an assessment on Ms Purcell Healy.

Mr Justice McDermott said for the last two years there had been "serious deficiencies" in obtaining forensic consultant psychiatric reports for accused persons. The judge said it was "completely unacceptable" that the State wasn't in a position to facilitate the trial process, with what are the essential elements", but remarked that there was nothing he could do about it.

"One can't have a fair trial without the exploration of relevant psychiatric conditions," said the judge.

Mr Justice McDermott said the delay in obtaining reports causes huge pain and suffering for those who are left behind in the aftermath of killings and alleged murders.

The judge said he could only express his sympathy to the "unfortunate father" in the case who had been left to come to court "again and again and again" only to be told that there had been "no progress" made "in this area".

Unfortunately, Mr Justice McDermott said he could not provide or direct any psychiatrist to do their work. He said the State should be using its absolute endeavours so as not to exacerbate the trauma suffered in these cases. He remarked that the absence of appropriate services was causing much pain and suffering, which he said shouldn't be occurring.

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The judge said it was up to the relevant body to put in place "the relevant process necessary" so that fair trials could be conducted, but that they were not doing so.

Ireland Defendant in Citywest assault case fit for trial, court hears Read more

Mr Grehan told the judge it was the HSE and the Department of Health who had that responsibility.

Ms Purcell Healy's case was listed for mention on December 3rd next.

Last year, Mr Justice McDermott noted that psychiatrists at the Central Mental Hospital were often unavailable to carry out reports for the courts due to the "burden of work" placed on them by their day-to-day jobs.

Lawyers also complained that, in some instances, psychiatrists were unwilling to take on cases due to the low fees being offered by the Department of Justice. In many cases, lawyers have had to seek the services of psychiatrists in the UK and elsewhere due to the lack of available psychiatrists in Ireland.
A 26-year-old man accused of the sexual assault of a girl in west Dublin is fit for trial, a court has heard.

The man charged with the sexual assault cannot be named because of legal restrictions on all sexual assault cases in Ireland.

He appeared via video link at Cloverhill Courthouse on Wednesday, where the proceedings, and the defendants replies, were translated by an Arabic interpreter.

However, Judge Alan Mitchell said he had received a report following the defendants last court appearance earlier this month indicating the accused appears to be fit to be tried.

A Garda Sergeant told the court there are further serious offences under consideration, but the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPPs) directions are not available at present.

The accused was remanded in custody until December 17, when he is due to appear before the courts again.

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Judge Mitchell said that at that point the defendant would have spent close to two months in custody and hoped at that stage there would be some progress indicating what direction the case is going.

The alleged assault of the girl took place on Garter Lane, Saggart, on Monday October 20th.

She had been in State care earlier that day.

Violent disorder broke out in Saggart in the days after the alleged sexual assault, in which four gardai were injured, a Garda van was burnt out and over 30 arrests were made.

Judge Mitchell noted the concerning security issues surrounding the case.
The new Minister for Education, Hildegarde Naughton, has said she intends to hit the ground running in her new position.

Speaking on RTE radios Morning Ireland, Ms Naughton said she was deeply honoured to be nominated for the position, and paid tribute to Paschal Donohoe on his departure to the World Bank.

She said that she comes to the position with a 360 degree understanding of the brief due to her previous experience as Minister of State at the Department of Children, Equality, Disability, Integration and Youth.

Ms Naughton said she had not known that Mr Donohoe was planning to leave politics. I think he's somebody who has - as he said himself - been through ten budgets and three national development plans and given great service to Ireland and to the Fine Gael Party.

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He has a stellar record as a public servant here. But I absolutely wish him well, and I think Ireland's loss is the world's gain with his new role in the World Bank."

Ms Naughton said she was very proud to be the first Fine Gael TD from Galway West to be appointed as a senior cabinet minister.

Ireland Simon Harris is new Minister for Finance in Cabinet reshuffle Read more

The former primary school teacher said that her experiences as a teacher and in government, and her passion for education gave her a 360 degree understanding of disability in particular, having served in both those departments".

So I'm going to hit the ground running. I really believe in listening to parents, students, teachers or SNAs in the wider school community.

"They're the real experts here to hear about that lived experience. That's how I've always done my business as a minister, and that's going to be my focus as I get into my new brief.

Ms Naughton also said that she wanted her work on places in schools for children with special needs to continue.
Christian religious education and collective worship in Northern Ireland schools do not comply with fundamental human rights standards, the UK Supreme Court has ruled.

The court handed down the unanimous judgment on Wednesday, ruling that religious education fails to comply with the requirement that teaching be objective, critical, and pluralistic, as protected by Article 2 of Protocol 1 and Article 9 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

The Supreme Court unanimously allowed the appeal brought by an unnamed father and daughter from Northern Ireland, overturning the previous ruling of the Court of Appeal.

In 2022, the High Court in Belfast ruled that the Christian-based RE taught at primary schools in Northern Ireland was unlawful. However, the Department of Education (DE) subsequently won an appeal against that judgment.

The decision on Wednesday dismissed the Department's cross-appeal and restored safeguards for children from non-religious, minority, or non-Christian backgrounds educated in Northern Irelands state-funded schools.

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'Watershed moment'

Darragh Mackin, solicitor for the father and daughter said: This decision is a watershed moment for educational rights in this jurisdiction. The Supreme Court has confirmed that all children are entitled to an education that respects their freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

"The judgment makes clear that the State cannot rely on withdrawal mechanisms to justify religious instruction. Schools must not place children in the impossible position of being singled out or stigmatised simply because their families do not share the religious worldview embedded in the curriculum.

The Supreme Court's judgment held that the current core syllabus for Religious Education, drafted by representatives of the four main Christian churches and mandated across all grant-aided schools, is not delivered in an objective, critical, and pluralistic manner.

Ireland Religious orders will be held accountable for sex abuse crimes in schools Read more

It also found that teaching based on the syllabus at the school that the girl attended, amounted to evangelism or proselytising, and therefore breached the rights of both the child and her parents.

The court said that the statutory right to withdraw a child from Religious Education and collective worship is not sufficient to remedy those breaches, because exercising that right places an undue burden on parents and carries a significant risk of stigmatisation for children.

It lastly found that the Department of Education failed in its duty to inspect or monitor religious education and collective worship to ensure compliance with human rights standards.

The court said that core curriculum must be revised, the Department of Education must establish effective inspection and oversight mechanisms for religious education and collective worship, as well as provide schools with clear guidance on delivering lawful, rights-compliant religious education which reflects the diversity of modern Northern Ireland.
Firefighters and army helicopters have been battling a blaze that burned through a neighbourhood in south-western Japan, killing one person, injuring another and forcing more than 170 people to evacuate.

A man in his 70s was unaccounted for and firefighters later found a body, possibly of the missing man, and a woman in her 50s suffered a minor injury, the local disaster response team said.

At least 170 homes have been damaged or burned down, the team said.

Dozens of fire engines and more than 200 firefighters were mobilised to battle the blaze, which was not fully under control nearly 20 hours after it started.



Residents watch flames rise from the fire in Oita, southern Japan (Kyodo News via AP)

The Ground Self-Defence Force dispatched two UH1 army helicopters to assist.

The fire started during strong winds Tuesday evening near a fishing port in the city of Oita on the southern main island of Kyushu.

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The blaze spread to a forest, affecting about 12 acres, the Fire and Disaster Management Agency (FDMA) said. There was an advisory for strong winds when the fire broke out.

A firefighter told the Kyodo News agency that the fire-fighting operation was hampered by narrow backstreets where fire engines could not enter. There were also abandoned homes in the rapidly aging and shrinking neighbourhood, the agency reported.

The local network YTV noted that the narrow alleyways where the fire burned had old wooden houses.

The fires spread quickly as a strong wind was blowing in all directions, a 59-year-old office worker told Kyodo News as she recalled how the fire had started on Tuesday evening.



The aftermath of the fire in Oita (Takumi Sato/Kyodo News via AP)

Authorities were still investigating the fires cause and how it spread, the FDMA said.

Japanese television footage showed smoke rising from swathes of land filled with destroyed and damaged houses, though orange flames were no longer visible by midday.

The Oita prefecture said about 260 homes remained without electricity on Wednesday afternoon.

A resident told Kyodo News Agency she quickly fled without many of her belongings because the fire spread in the blink of an eye.

Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi posted a statement on X offering sympathy for those affected by the fire and pledged to provide maximum support.
Harvard University has reopened an investigation into connections between its former president Larry Summers and Jeffrey Epstein, a university spokesperson said, as Mr Summers office said he would resign from the board of OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT.

Regarded as a leading voice on the US economy, Mr Summers was also affiliated with multiple think tanks, research centres and media organisations. Several of these confirmed their affiliations had ended.

Harvard did not mention Mr Summers by name, but the decision to restart the investigation follows the release of emails showing that Mr Summers, a former US treasury secretary, maintained a friendly relationship with Epstein long after the financier pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl in 2008.

The university is conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents to evaluate what actions may be warranted, spokesperson Jason Newton said in a statement first reported by The Boston Globe and The Harvard Crimson.



Larry Summers, pictured, said his association with Jeffrey Epstein was a major error in judgment (Michael Dwyer/AP)

An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex-crimes conviction and was given his own office and unfettered access to a research centre he helped establish.

The professor who provided the office was later barred from starting new research or advising students for at least two years.

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Mr Summers said late on Monday that he would step back from public commitments. His office said on Wednesday this included resigning from the board of directors of OpenAI.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress, he said in a statement.

The OpenAI board said it appreciated Mr Summers contributions and perspective.

Mr Summers joined the OpenAI board in November 2023, part of an effort to restore stability at the not-for-profit organisation and bring back its chief executive, Sam Altman, after previous board members fired Mr Altman days earlier.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr Epstein and that I've said that I'm going to step back from public activities for a while Larry Summers speaking to students

Mr Summers appeared before his economics class on Tuesday and addressed his involvement with Epstein.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr Epstein and that Ive said that Im going to step back from public activities for a while. But I think its very important to fulfil my teaching obligations, he said.

Mr Summers remarks were captured on video by Harvard student Rosie Couture, who shared the video online.

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Epstein, who authorities said died by suicide in 2019, was a convicted sex offender known for his connections to wealthy and powerful people, making him a fixture of outrage and conspiracy theories about wrongdoing among American elites.

Mr Summers served as treasury secretary from 1999 to 2001 under former US president Bill Clinton.

He was Harvards president for five years from 2001 to 2006.

When asked about the emails last week, Mr Summers issued a statement saying he had great regrets in my life and that his association with Epstein was a major error in judgment.

Other organisations that confirmed the end of their affiliations with Mr Summers included the Centre for American Progress, the Centre for Global Development and the Budget Lab at Yale University.

Bloomberg TV said Mr Summers withdrawal from public commitments included his role as a paid contributor, and the New York Times said it would not renew his contract as a contributing opinion writer.
Holly Willoughbys media company has had winding-up proceedings against it dismissed at a specialist insolvency court.

Roxy Media, the media production and management firm directed by the TV presenter and her husband, Dan Baldwin, was issued with a winding-up petition by His Majestys Revenue & Customs (HMRC) in January which could have led to the business being shut down.

A hearing in April at the Insolvency and Companies Court (ICC), a specialist court within the UK High Court, heard the firm owed 377,000 in tax, which had been reduced from an unknown amount.

The court then heard in July that the company was seeking to take the case to a tax tribunal, but no details were given as to what the challenge concerned.

The case returned to court on Wednesday, where Chief ICC Judge Nicholas Briggs dismissed the petition at the request of HMRC.

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Charlotte Cooke, for HMRC, said: The debt is now being dealt with in a tribunal appeal and no date has been set for that, so in the circumstances we simply ask for the petition to be dismissed.

No-one made representations on behalf of Roxy Media in court during the minute-long hearing.

Willoughby set up the company with her husband to specialise in managing media clients.

Records at Companies House indicate she was appointed as a director of the company in 2014 and Mr Baldwin in 2008.

The presenter is best known for previously fronting ITV daytime show This Morning and Dancing On Ice.
Nigerias president has postponed his trip to this weekends G20 summit after promising to intensify efforts to rescue 24 schoolgirls who were abducted by gunmen earlier this week in a north-western region of the country.

President Bola Tinubu had been set to leave for South Africa on Wednesday, days before the summit of the worlds leading rich and developing nations was due to begin.

But Mr Tinubu said that he was suspending his departure in light of the abductions and a separate church attack in which gunmen killed two people, spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said in a statement.

Disturbed by the security breaches in Kebbi state and Tuesdays attack by bandits against worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, President Tinubu decided to suspend his departure to the G20 summit, Mr Onanuga said.



A vendor displays local newspapers on the streets of Lagos (Sunday Alamba/AP)

It was not immediately clear if or when Mr Tinubu would leave for the summit, which runs over Saturday and Sunday in Johannesburg.

The girls were kidnapped from their dormitory before dawn on Monday, when gunmen attacked their boarding school, the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, in the town of Maga in Nigerias Kebbi state.

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Local police said that the gunmen scaled the fence to enter the dorm and exchanged gunfire with police officers guarding the school before seizing the girls and killing a staff member.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but analysts and locals say gangs often target schools, travellers and remote villagers in kidnappings for ransom.

Authorities say the gunmen are mostly former herders who have taken up arms against farming communities after clashes between them over strained resources.

We notified the security operatives of the planned attack. Had they acted on the information we provided, this tragedy could have been avoided Dan Juma Umar, civil society leader in Maga

Dan Juma Umar, a civil society leader in Maga, said that it was not the first time gunmen had attacked the area and that residents had alerted security force members about suspicious movements three days before the attack on the school.

We notified the security operatives of the planned attack. Had they acted on the information we provided, this tragedy could have been avoided, he told The Associated Press (AP).

Hawau Usman, a 15-year-old student who was among those abducted, had managed to escape.

They kept moving, and when they left, I ran back to the school, the youngster told the AP on Tuesday.

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I knocked on the principals house, but no-one answered, she said, adding that she later found refuge at a teachers house.

Mr Tinubu said in a statement released late on Tuesday that he has directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi state.



The attack happened at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in the town of Maga in Kebbi state (Tunde Omolehin/AP)

He expressed regret that the heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls.

At least 1,500 students have been abducted in the region since Boko Haram jihadi extremists seized 276 Chibok schoolgirls more than a decade ago. But bandits are also active in the region, and analysts say gangs often target schools to gain attention.

Nigeria has recently been thrust into the spotlight when US president Donald Trump singled the country out, saying Christians were being persecuted  an allegation that the government rejected.

Analysts and residents blame the insecurity on a failure to prosecute known attackers, and the rampant corruption that limits weapons supplies to security forces while ensuring a steady supply to the gangs.
A large Russian drone and missile barrage has killed 25 people, including three children, and injured dozens more in Ukraine overnight, officials said.

The attack came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky arrived in Turkey for talks on finding a settlement that might end Russias invasion of his country.

The night-time attack hit two nine-storey apartment blocks in Ternopil, a city in western Ukraine, according to interior minister Ihor Klymenko.

Emergency crews were sifting through the rubble in daylight to find any survivors, he said.



Rescue workers put out a fire at a residential building damaged by a Russian strike on Ternopil (Rostyslav Kovalchuk.AP)

At least 73 people were reported injured, including 15 children.

At least 19 among those killed were burned alive, including three children aged five, seven and 16, Mr Klymenko said.

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Two dozen people were still unaccounted for, he said on national television, and rescuers expected to work for at least two more days to complete the search of rubble.

Russia fired 476 strike and decoy drones, as well as 48 missiles of various types, at Ukrainian targets overnight, Ukraines air force said.

The bombardment included 47 cruise missiles, with air defences intercepting all but six of them, the air force said. Western-supplied F-16 and Mirage-2000 jets intercepted at least 10 cruise missiles, it said.

Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia (to stop the war) is insufficient, Mr Zelensky wrote on the messaging app Telegram.



Rescuers evacuate an elderly woman after a residential building was hit in Russias missile attack on Kharkiv (Andrii Marienko/AP)

Mr Zelensky met with Turkeys president Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara later on Wednesday as part of his efforts to diplomatically isolate Russian president Vladimir Putin and bring more international pressure to bear on him. Mr Putin has so far resisted making compromises, despite US pressure.

In brief statements to the press, Mr Zelensky and Mr Erdogan expressed their commitment to finding a peaceful settlement. Turkey is a key broker in the Black Sea region, preserving relations with both Ukraine and Russia.

We count on the strength of Turkish diplomacy, on (how) its understood in Moscow, Mr Zelensky said.

Mr Zelensky said before the talks that he had seen see some positions and signals from the United States about the war.

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He did not elaborate but tough new American sanctions on Russias oil industry, devised to push Mr Putin to the negotiating table, are due to take effect on Friday.

A senior Turkish official initially said that US special envoy Steve Witkoff would join Mr Zelensky in Turkey, but backtracked later in the day and said Mr Witkoff would not be coming.



A rescuer works at a residential building which was heavily damaged by a Russian strike on Ternopil (Rostyslav Kovalchuk/AP)

An army official confirmed on Wednesday that US army secretary Dan Driscoll was in Ukraine for negotiations.

The official said that Mr Driscoll was accompanied by army chief of staff General Randy George and General Chris Donahue, commander of US Army Europe and Africa.

The Ukrainian city of Ternopil, located around 120 miles from the Polish border, sits in a part of relatively peaceful western Ukraine where many people from the east and south moved to as they fled danger along the front line.

Almost 50 people were injured in Russian strikes on three other Ukrainian regions.

Russias defence ministry said it attacked Ukrainian energy facilities and military-industrial targets, including long-range drone depots, in retaliation against strikes by Kyiv on Russian territory.

Two Eurofighter Typhoon jets and two F-16s were scrambled in Romania when a drone entered the Nato members airspace during the Russian attacks, Romanias Ministry of National Defence said.

The Polish military said that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed in the middle of the night as a preventive measure.

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Polands Rzeszow and Lublin airports were closed temporarily to prioritise military aviation, the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency said.



Rescue workers clear the rubble after a Russian strike on a residential building in Ternopil (Vlad Kravchuk/AP)

In north-eastern Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, Russian drones injured 46 people, including two girls, the head of the regional military administration, Oleh Syniehubov, wrote on Telegram.

Drones hit several city districts, at least 16 residential buildings, an ambulance station, school and other civilian infrastructure, he said.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that Ukraine fired four American-supplied ATACMS missiles at the Russian city of Voronezh on Tuesday.

All four were intercepted, the ministry said, adding there were no casualties.

Ukraines General Staff on Tuesday reported firing ATACMS missiles at Russia without offering details.
The Russian spy ship Yantar is operating on the edge of UK waters and has directed lasers at pilots of surveillance aircraft monitoring its activities, the British defence secretary has said.

John Healey said Britain is ready to respond if the ship heads south, in a warning to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

The vessel, designed for gathering intelligence and mapping crucial undersea cables, is loitering off the northern coast of Scotland, having entered wider UK waters over the last few weeks.

Mr Healey told a Downing Street press conference on Wednesday: We deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF P-8 planes to monitor and track this vessels every move, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots.

That Russian action is deeply dangerous. This is the second time this year that this ship, the Yantar, has deployed to UK waters.

UK defence secretary John Healey said Britain is ready to respond (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

My message to Russia and to Putin is this: We see you. We know what youre doing. If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.He also said: It is part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.

It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

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In January, it emerged the Yantar was caught lurking over undersea cables and was warned off by a Royal Navy nuclear-powered submarine.

The UK and Nato allies are increasingly concerned about the risk Moscow poses to offshore cables, pipelines and other infrastructure critical to internet connectivity.

Attacks on undersea cables could cause catastrophic disruption to the financial and communications systems Britons rely on, the National Security Strategy Committee warned in a September report.
US president Donald Trump has been criticised after telling a female reporter "quiet, piggy" after she asked him a question about the Jeffrey Epstein files.

Mr Trump has a long history of derogatory remarks and personal attacks on female journalists, and the latest incident took place on Air Force One on Friday.

It went largely unreported at the time, but Mr Trump is now facing criticism after it was highlighted in US media.

Catherine Lucey, Bloombergs White House correspondent, was speaking before the US House and Senate voted to release all of the files related to the paedophile financier on Tuesday night.

She asked Mr Trump why he was behaving the way he was if if theres nothing incriminating in the files.

Mr Trump pointed at her and said: Quiet. Quiet, piggy.

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Disgusting and completely unacceptable, CNN anchor Jake Tapper wrote on X, sharing a clip of the incident.

Former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson labelled the remark "disgusting and degrading".

On Tuesday, both the US House and Senate acted decisively to pass a bill to force the justice department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The move is a remarkable display of approval for an effort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from Mr Trump and Republican party leadership.

When a small bipartisan group of House legislators introduced a petition in July to manoeuvre around speaker Mike Johnsons control of which bills reach the House floor, it appeared a hopeful effort  especially as Mr Trump urged his supporters to dismiss the matter as a hoax.

But both Mr Trump and Mr Johnson failed in their efforts to prevent the vote.

The bill passed the house by 427-1, with the only no vote coming from Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who is a fervent supporter of Mr Trump.
The UK is exploring military options if a Russian spy ship sails closer to British shores after its crew used a laser to target RAF pilots monitoring its progress.

British Defence Secretary John Healey said the UK was ready to respond if the ship heads south from its current position north of Scotland.

The frigate HMS Somerset and RAF P-8 Poseidon aircraft have been keeping watch on the Yantar, which is designed for gathering intelligence and mapping crucial undersea cables, after it entered wider UK waters this month.

Mr Healey said the frigate and planes had been deployed to track this vessels every move, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots.

That Russian action is deeply dangerous.

British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper, in Berlin for a meeting with her German counterpart, said the UK would be vigilant and determined in its response to Vladimir Putins Russia.

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The voyage of the Yantar is seen as further sign of Russian interference in Europe, following aircraft and drones crossing into Nato airspace and a sabotage attack on a Polish rail line used to supply Ukraine.

British Defence Secretary John Healey said Britain is ready to respond (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

At a Downing Street press conference, Mr Healey said: My message to Russia and to Putin is this: We see you. We know what youre doing. If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

He warned the UK was facing a new era of threat to its security.

In January, it emerged that the Yantar was caught lurking over undersea cables and was warned off by a Royal Navy nuclear-powered attack submarine, which surfaced nearby, having secretly followed the vessel.

The UK and Nato allies are increasingly concerned about the risk Moscow poses to offshore cables, pipelines and other infrastructure critical to internet connectivity.

Attacks on undersea cables could cause catastrophic disruption to the financial and communications systems Britons rely on, the National Security Strategy Committee warned in a September report.

HMS Somerset shadowing the Yantar (Royal Navy/PA)

The Yantar has been within the UKs exclusive economic zone, which extends up to 200 nautical miles  about 230 miles  offshore, but has been on the edge of Britains territorial waters, within 12 nautical miles (13.8 miles) from the coast.

The incident with the laser is understood to have happened within the last fortnight.

Mr Healey said: Clearly, anything that impedes, disrupts or puts at risk pilots in charge of British military planes is deeply dangerous.

This is the first time weve had this action from Yantar directed against the British RAF.

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We take it extremely seriously. Ive changed the Navys rules of engagement so that we can follow more closely, monitor more closely, the activities of the Yantar when its in our wider waters.

We have military options ready should the Yantar change course. Im not going to reveal those, because that only makes President Putin wiser.

A repeat of the submarine response could be one military option on the table, or warships could follow the example of the Dutch navy, which escorted the Yantar out of the Netherlands part of the North Sea earlier this month.

In Berlin, Ms Cooper suggested Russias actions were motivated by frustration at the lack of progress in Ukraine.

She said: Russia has failed in its military objectives over the course of this year, so as a result, what we have seen them try to do is to seek continually to escalate.

We can see the approach they are taking, we have no illusions about what they are doing. We see what Putin is doing and we understand and we will continue to be vigilant and determined in our response.

Just as we have been about incursions into Nato airspace, just as we are being now in terms of identifying the Russian spy ship in UK waters and just as we have continued to be in response to sabotage threats that we have seen across many different European countries as well.

It will not deter us from supporting Ukraine, quite the opposite, because we know Ukraines security is our security.
Both the House and Senate acted decisively to pass a bill to force the justice department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The move is a remarkable display of approval for an effort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from US president Donald Trump and Republican party leadership.

When a small bipartisan group of House legislators introduced a petition in July to manoeuvre around speaker Mike Johnsons control of which bills reach the House floor, it appeared a hopeful effort  especially as Mr Trump urged his supporters to dismiss the matter as a hoax.

But both Mr Trump and Mr Johnson failed in their efforts to prevent the vote.



The House voted overwhelmingly to force the US justice department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein (House Television via AP)

Now the president has bowed to the growing momentum behind the bill and even said he will sign it.

Just hours after the House passed the bill, the Senate agreed to pass it with unanimous consent once it is sent to the body.

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The bill passed the house by 427-1, with the only no vote coming from Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who is a fervent supporter of Mr Trump. He also chairs a subcommittee that initiated a subpoena on the Justice Department for the Epstein files.

The vote on Tuesday further showed the pressure mounting on members of US congress and the Trump administration to meet long-held demands that the justice department release its case files on Epstein, a well-connected financier who killed himself in a Manhattan jail while awaiting trial in 2019 on charges he sexually abused and trafficked underage girls.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene said as she stood with some of the abuse survivors outside the Capitol on Tuesday morning: These women have fought the most horrific fight that no woman should have to fight. And they did it by banding together and never giving up.

Thats what we did by fighting so hard against the most powerful people in the world, even the president of the United States, in order to make this vote happen today.

Ms Greene is a Georgia Republican and longtime Trump loyalist.





Todays vote to finally force the release of the Epstein files is a major victory for the survivors whove waited decades for the truth.



I stood with them this morning, the survivors who told the FBI, told law enforcement, begged for help, and were ignored.



This vote shouldve pic.twitter.com/kcTo5EH0dv  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) November 18, 2025

A separate investigation conducted by the House Oversight Committee has released thousands of pages of emails and other documents from Epsteins estate, showing his connections to global leaders, Wall Street powerbrokers, influential political figures and Mr Trump himself.

Pushing for more accountability, the survivors of Epsteins abuse cast the current effort in Congress as a step towards accountability for Epsteins crimes after years of government failure under multiple presidential administrations.

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Mr Trump has said he cut ties with Epstein years ago, but tried for months to move past the demands for disclosure.

On Monday, he told reporters that Epstein was connected to more Democrats and that he did not want the Epstein files to detract from the great success of the Republican Party.

Many in the Republican base have continued to demand the release of the files. Adding to that pressure, several survivors of Epsteins abuse rallied outside the Capitol on Tuesday morning. Bundled in jackets against the November chill and holding photos of themselves as teenagers, they recounted their stories of abuse.



Sky Roberts, brother of prominent Epstein accuser Virginia Giuffre, spokes during a news conference ahead of the vote (AP)

We are exhausted from surviving the trauma and then surviving the political conflicts that surround it, said Jena-Lisa Jones, one of the survivors.

She added that she had voted for Mr Trump, but had a message for the American president: I beg you Donald Trump, please stop making this political.

The group of women also met with Mr Johnson and rallied outside the Capitol in September, but have had to wait months for the vote.

This is because Mr Johnson kept the House closed for legislative business for nearly two months and also refused to swear-in Democratic representative Adelita Grijalva of Arizona during the government shutdown.

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After winning a special election on September 23, Ms Grijalva had pledged to provide the crucial 218th vote to the petition for the Epstein files bill.

But only after she was sworn into office last week could she sign her name to the discharge petition to give it majority support in the 435-member House.

It quickly became apparent the bill would pass, and both Mr Johnson and Mr Trump began to fold. Mr Trump on Sunday said Republicans should vote for the bill.

Yet Ms Greene told reporters that Mr Trumps decision to fight the bill had betrayed his Make America Great Again political movement.

Watching this turn into a fight has ripped MAGA apart, she said.
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A multifaceted Japanese venue with an eight-seat omakase counter, cocktail bar and rooftop terrace.

1 / 8 The Filet-O-Ebi sando with a panko-crumbed prawn (and prawn mousse) patty and house-made tartare. Threefold Studio 2 / 8 The third-storey rooftop terrace on Bourke Street. Threefold Studio 3 / 8 The miso-y udon carbonara towsthe line between Japanese and Italian, with a shoyuzuke (soy-sauce pickled) egg yolk. Threefold Studio 4 / 8 Hiramasa kingfish. Threefold Studio 5 / 8 An omakase counter is part of the experience. Threefold Studio 6 / 8 Upon entering the revamped bar, a cluster of disco balls speaks to the all-vinyl soundtrack. Threefold Studio 7 / 8 Tokyo-style langos, a fried flatbread. Threefold Studio 8 / 8 Disuko is a new multifaceted Japanese venue by the Mamas Dining Group crew. Threefold Studio Previous Slide Next Slide

Japanese$$$$

Unrecognisable after a significant refit, the former Madame Brussels site has reopened as Disuko, a multifaceted Japanese venue with room for more than 150 people across a restaurant with an eight-seat omakase counter, a cocktail bar, a rooftop terrace and a private dining penthouse.

Leading the kitchen is former Kisume head chef Hung Hoa Duong alongside group culinary director Michael Stolley. Theres a playfulness to much of the menu. Two dishes were inspired by McDonalds in Japan: the Filet-O-Ebi sando, with a panko-crumbed prawn (and prawn mousse) patty and house-made tartare; and the wagyu katsu sando, Stolleys Japanese take on a cheeseburger with bulldog sauce.

The miso-y udon carbonara is creamy but not overly cheesy, toeing the line between Japanese and Italian, with a shoyuzuke (soy-sauce pickled) egg yolk. In the restaurant, you can order a la carte or choose five dishes for $65 per person. The sushi-centric omakase experience is 12 courses. Dishes might include chawanmushi (Japanese savoury egg custard) with fried-chicken-skin furikake, with tiered sake pairings.
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Exclusive NationalHealthcare Coralie watched her mother descend into frailty and despair. It didnt have to happen Angus Thomson November 20, 2025  4:00am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 105 View all comments

Frontline healthcare staff will be offered awareness training to tackle widespread ageism in the health system as older Australians reveal they are being denied treatments, dismissed and excluded from decisions about their own care. Australias age discrimination commissioner Robert Fitzgerald will on Thursday unveil an ambitious plan to combat ageism in healthcare which would seek to boost the representation of people over 65 in clinical trials, review healthcare standards to remove age-related biases and safeguard new healthcare technologies against potential dangers of artificial intelligence. Coralie Wales with a picture of her mother, Bonnie Jean Tosswill, and a painting by the prolific artist. Steven Siewert When you actually talk to people in ... aged care or health care, they will immediately identify that ageism exists, Fitzgerald said. Were not going to blame people, but what we are saying is it absolutely has to change. Fitzgerald was spurred to act after dozens of Australians over 65 told the Human Rights Commission about their experiences of age discrimination in healthcare.

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One unnamed patient recalled going to an emergency department with stomach pain, where a triage nurse put the complaint down to bad food. She said, Youve probably eaten something youre not [supposed to]. You should know by your age what not to eat, they said. As it turned out, what I had was ... cancer. Many of the dozens of older people who participated in the study reported decisions were being made about their care without them. Some said their age was given as a reason for not proceeding with treatments or procedures, without a medical explanation. They [decided] not to operate before I even knew it was an option, one person said. I found out after the fact that theyd discussed it with my son and decided it wasnt worth it because of my age.

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About 16 per cent of Australians are over 65, but that figure is projected to grow beyond 20 per cent by the mid-century. The federal government is locked in a funding battle with the states and territories over who pays for an increasing number of frail and vulnerable patients in the hospital system. The ABC reported this week that state health ministers were angered by a letter sent by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese in September, demanding they rein in hospital spending. Getting old sucks, but it is actually possible to have a positive experience in ageing. Age Discrimination Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald In NSW, taxpayers are spending an estimated $1.2 million a day on hospital patients awaiting discharge to aged and disability care. Fitzgerald said he was concerned the debate was focused on the burden of bed block on taxpayers and waiting times, not on the needs of older Australians: Did it become a big issue because it was affecting older people? I suspect not. Its become a big issue because theyre blocking beds for the general population.

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The former productivity and child abuse royal commissioner said there was a risk decisions about older patients were being made based on resource rationing rather than their individual needs. That is highly problematic, and we could fast reach that point as the pressures in the healthcare system grow, he said. Getting old sucks, but it is actually possible to have a positive experience in ageing  you cant have that if you feel diminished and unworthy of that experience. Australias Age Discrimination Commissioner Robert Fitzgerald says ageism is endemic in many corners of the countrys health system. Steven Siewert Coralie Wales, a public health expert working in western Sydney, watched her mother, Bonnie Jean Tosswill, become increasingly frail over the decade until her death in June at 94. Tosswill  a prolific artist and painter  grew depressed as she progressively relinquished the activities that helped define her, and felt health professionals cut her out of decisions about her care.

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Mum used to say to me, Why do they talk to you and not me? Im still here. Ive still got ears, Ive still got a brain, Wales said. If people had been treating her as a fully sentient, listening, intelligent woman much earlier, and offering her the preventative stuff in a way that she could accept it, then she wouldnt have had to die  in misery. Editor's pick Exclusive

Cardiovascular health This tiny chip can predict your risk of stroke Australian Medical Association president Dr Danielle McMullen said the report shed light on the challenges older Australians faced from GP clinics to hospitals. A persons age is only one piece of the puzzle. High-quality patient-centred care requires looking at all the factors relating to someones health, not just their chronological age, she said. Sadly, system pressures in public hospitals and aged care are making it harder for older people to access timely, appropriate care. The Human Rights Commission will next week begin holding age awareness workshops for health professionals, funded by the federal health department.

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A 2023 analysis found that, after one 2-hour workshop, nine in 10 participants said they had rethought how they communicate with older adults, and 82 per cent reconsidered their attitudes towards ageing. Were optimistic that the same pattern will emerge [with health workers], Fitzgerald said. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
An 87-year-old aged care resident armed with a sharp metal bar has been pepper-sprayed by police who were called to the facility in Sydneys south-west after the man threatened staff and other residents.

Police were called to the Camden aged care centre about 7.30pm on Wednesday. Two officers confronted the man with dementia in the foyer and using the spray after he refused directions to drop the two to three foot metal ornament.

NSW Police South West Metropolitan Region Commander Brett McFadden. Louise Kennerley

Commander Brett McFadden, of the NSW Police South West Metropolitan Region, said the mans conduct in no way reflects the individual, such is the insidious nature of dementia, and the challenges it presents.

He wasnt the person that maybe his family knew him to be, McFadden said told reporters on Thursday. Despite the age, he was still a man of a reasonable size. He was still exercising a level of strength, albeit an intent may not have been there that the risk to himself, the risk to other members of staff, the risk to patients and police was still prevalent.

McFadden said the incident carried public interest and would be investigated by police.

It comes more than two years after the death of Cooma aged care resident Clare Nowland after being Tasered by police. The 95-year-old great-grandmother had threatened staff and residents at the Yallambee Lodge with a knife, prompting the calls to emergency services.

Former office Kristian White deployed the Taser at Nowland, causing the elderly woman to fall and hit head. She died in hospital one week later.

White was convicted for the manslaughter and sentenced to a two-year community correction order  effectively a good behaviour bond  in May this year. Prosecutors have since indicated that they would appeal the sentence.

McFadden said the only parallel between the action against the elderly man and Nowland was that they occurred in aged care facilities. He said he was satisfied with the conduct of the officers on Wednesday evening, who remain on duty.
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NationalNSWUniversity Cut admissions in 2026: The new rules shaking up university entry Christopher Harris November 19, 2025  6:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Year 12 school leavers could face increased difficulty securing a spot at university from next year with at least one institution expected to cut admissions in response to a major funding overhaul. The government is moving to exert greater control over the allocation of places, giving each university its own managed growth target which is effectively a cap on domestic admissions from 2027. Analysts say that universities are poised to cut admissions due to the changes. Oscar Colman Analysts expect that universities which are significantly over-enrolled will cut admissions from as early as next year in a bid to bring enrolments down in preparation for the new policy. Education Minister Jason Clare said the new policy is moving to a managed system rather than a previous Hunger Games approach, with an extra 9500 Commonwealth supported places given to institutions next year.

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More Australians next year will start a university degree than ever before, he said. This is 4.1 per cent growth year-on-year  And it will be even more the year after that, and the year after that. Monash University higher education analyst Andrew Norton said the push to limit institutions from over-enrolling students was a significant change to the tertiary system. Higher education analyst Andrew Norton from Monash Business School. Renee Nowytarger The minister is correct in saying theyre going to fully fund more places, but incorrect in saying there will be more in total, he said.

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He said the change would not necessarily result in more students at university because students who were rejected from one institution would not necessarily enrol in another one. Related Article Opinion

University Do university early offer schemes dent year 12 motivation? Thats not what we found Eric Knight Academic Some unis will reduce their intake in 2026 to make sure their total number of Commonwealth supported places comes under the new cap, he said. Charles Sturt Universitys deputy vice chancellor (academic), Professor Graham Brown, said while the minister spoke about more Commonwealth supported places, the new policy effectively prevented his institution enrolling more students. Under current law, universities can enrol Commonwealth-supported students beyond their funding cap, receiving only the student contribution. The 9500 places act as a ceiling, not a gateway, he said.

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A Commonwealth supported place is a university spot partly subsidised by the Australian government through the Commonwealth Grant Scheme. The student pays only the remaining portion, called the student contribution, and can defer that amount through a HECS loan. We are seeing increasing demand for our courses, yet in order to comply with the [Australian Tertiary Education Commission] cap, we will have to cut admissions in 2026 and turn away students who want to study with us, Brown said. Were having to make concrete decisions literally now about how many students to admit to which courses in 2026 without any sight of the legislation or exact funding rules that will fund them from 2027 onwards. The number of year 12 leavers applying for a NSW university jumped in the past 12 months, from 46,863 last year to 48,822 in 2025. In Victoria, 53,178 school-leavers have applied for uni this year. A University of Sydney spokesperson said in 2024 it enrolled 4 per cent more than their allocated Commonwealth-funded places but, unlike Charles Sturt, did not expect to have to cut enrolments.

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Though figures for this year are not yet finalised, domestic demand has been strong across the sector and we expect to remain over-enrolled, the spokesperson said. For the new funding system, transition arrangements are being put in place where currently over-enrolled universities will have a glide-path agreed with newly formed Australian Tertiary Education Commission. This will enable universities to continue to retain student contributions for over-enrolled students beyond a buffer between 2 and 5 per cent. The government says a transitional funding floor guarantee will apply in 2026 while a funding floor for most universities will remain in place until 2031, guaranteeing 97.5 per cent of Commonwealth Grant Scheme funding from the previous year. The government has said it wanted 80 per cent of the workforce to have a tertiary qualification by 2050, up from around 60 per cent today.

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However, the Group of Eight, which represents the countrys research-intensive universities, last year said a cap on students would limit growth in tertiary attainment. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalQueenslandTrade unions Violent Queensland union was copying Setkas campaign, inquiry hears Matt Dennien Updated November 19, 2025  5:09pm ,first published November 19, 2025  3:46pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The man brought in to probe violence in the CFMEUs Queensland branch has told an inquiry that a conscious campaign to push the Australian Workers Union (AWU) off civil construction sites was done to emulate what the CFMEUs Victorian branch had achieved under disgraced former boss John Setka. In his second day of evidence to the Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU and Misconduct in the Construction Industry, investigator Geoffrey Watson said hostilities between the union and the AWU, its main rival on large infrastructure projects, were a matter of economic significance to the entire nation. Watson, hired by the federally appointed CFMEU administrators to investigate allegations of violence in Queensland after reporting by this masthead, The Australian Financial Review and 60 Minutes, said the conflict between the two unions was no longer a theory but exactly what has happened. Geoffrey Watson gave evidence as a witness for a second day at the Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU. News Corp Australia He elaborated on remarks made in Tuesdays hearing that troubles had ramped up in line with state investment in big infrastructure projects  tunnels, railways, things which normally fall within the jurisdiction of the AWU.

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I think the point has to be made and underlined that this was just emulating [former Victorian CFMEU secretary John] Setkas effective campaign in Victoria, Watson said on Wednesday. If youve only got one union covering all of these areas, theyre given far, far too much power in those negotiations. You can imagine the pressure thats about to be placed on scarce labour resources here [in Queensland] with the Olympics coming along. John Setka, the long-serving secretary of the Victorian branch of the CFMEU. Chris Hopkins Watson said the issue was more than a matter of abuse between unions, but was of economic significance to the people of Queensland. Ill go a step further and say the people of Australia, he continued. The fact is, there are massive infrastructure projects at the moment, in South Australia, Victoria, New South Wales, Queensland.

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Somebody said to me  that they felt that the Queensland branch may have been driven to do it because they feared Setka and his operatives may move into Queensland. Now, that sounds a little far-fetched to me, but it should be said thats what Setka did with South Australia. Related Article Trade unions Whos who at the CFMEU inquiry Watson said that the building firms represented in the Brisbane CBD were not the same as in others around the country. Other big-name builders can see what was happening, and theyve been burnt in Victoria, and youll find a lot of them still heavily represented as major construction companies on projects on the Gold Coast  and have avoided the Brisbane CBD construction market because of it. Setka, the CFMEUs leader in Victoria for 12 years, was arrested in Melbourne last week. He faces charges of using a carriage service to menace, harass and offend the unions government-appointed administrator, Mark Irving.

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Inquiry hears of incidents at Centenary Bridge, Cross River Rail sites In Wednesdays hearing, Watson was quizzed about several of the incidents that featured in his 45-page report, released in July, that had taken place on infrastructure projects around Brisbane. In one, CFMEU members surrounded AWU organisers cars at the Centenary Bridge upgrade site in Jindalee, shouting at the driver and rocking the car. CFMEU members surround an AWU organisers car at the Centenary Bridge upgrade site. Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU At another, at the Cross River Rail Northern Portal site at Normanby, an AWU organiser passed through a picket line to speak to members about an investigation into an accident.

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He was surrounded by CFMEU members, who shouted abuse at him for 15 minutes while one of his tyres was deflated. Watson also spoke about a confrontation near the Cross River Rail site at Woolloongabba, where AWU organisers were met by a CFMEU group, surrounded, and separated, with one having his backpack removed and shoved. The CFMEU surround two AWU delegates at a Coles shopping centre near the Woolloongabba Cross River Rail site. Commission of Inquiry into the CFMEU The counsel assisting the inquiry, Mark Costello, asked Watson about an incident where a CFMEU member taunted an AWU organiser with schoolyard taunts of googly eyes. By the way, dont brush it aside ... because thats just how this works, Watson says, noting that CFMEU members would determine who was weak or capitulated and then seek to incite him to throw the first punch.

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Lack of cooperation from major builders Related Article Trade unions The CFMEU figures Watson says should be kicked out of union immediately After counsel for the inquiry and the administrator reached a deal on Wednesday, a version of Watsons public report with most names unredacted was tendered as evidence, identifying several union officials whose names had previously been blacked out. A second, shorter, private report prepared by Watson for the administration was also tendered. Watson told the inquiry that a number of potential witnesses were approached but declined to be interviewed, and that he was disappointed by a lack of cooperation from Cross River Rail contractor CPB and Centenary Bridge contractor BMD.

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He described an overwhelming code of silence from the sector, including building firms. In one instance, he had been having very open discussions with an industrial relations adviser on Cross River Rail, before they were subject to a campaign by the CFMEU. I was contacted by a private law firm  acting for CPB who were the contractors and all of a sudden they all clammed up, Watson told the inquiry. Ive got a lot of that from the major contractors, they just will whinge from the sidelines but they will not assist in finding a solution. Watson also noted evidence of bad employers in the state, including labour hire firms with links to outlaw motorcycle gangs. Youth Crew described as hit squad

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Costello, the counsel assisting, asked Watson about an informal grouping known as the Youth Crew. Related Article Trade unions Man now accused of murder drove officials to Watson probe, CFMEU inquiry told The investigator told the inquiry he couldnt get to the bottom of why some union members who appeared at incidents of hostility toward the AWU were not at work sites in work clothes. Wouldnt it be good to know whos the person who sent the message to say be at the Centenary Bridge, Watson said. The group was described to him by people outside the CFMEU as a hit squad and in other wonderful ways, Watson said.

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If it did any good, I didnt find out about it  but it was available to attend occasions like this and, in effect, lead trouble making. Queensland is under control Under cross-examination by Chris OGrady KC, the counsel for the administrator Irving, Watson said the federal administration of the union had changed things. He described the new executive officer, Jared Abbot, as an outsider with a calm and cool manner who had just given a different feel to the whole place. Queensland is under control  I think that NSW is under control. Victorias a problematic case  but it always was, its going to be harder there, he said.

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The inquiry will resume on Thursday, with Irving to give evidence. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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Exclusive NationalVictoriaHealthcare Community health centre will keep its doors open  for now  after last-minute reprieve Broede Carmody and Rachael Dexter Updated November 20, 2025  7:15am ,first published November 19, 2025  11:01pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 25 View all comments

Thousands of Melbournes most vulnerable patients will retain access to their free medical check-ups for at least another eight months after the federal government and cash-strapped community health provider cohealth signed off on an emergency bailout package. The $1.5 million pledge from the Albanese government will pause proposed cuts, first reported by The Age, to general practitioner services for low-income residents in Collingwood, Fitzroy and Kensington until July 31, 2026. Cohealth has agreed to pause its proposed cuts until at least July. Simon Schluter Doctors, nurses, social workers and activists had threatened to occupy the Collingwood site and run a renegade health service if the planned service cuts were not reversed. Cohealth told Health Minister Mark Butlers office on Friday that it could push back the axing of GP services from late December to mid-February. The federal government responded on Monday with an offer to extend those services for an additional six months, according to cohealth chief executive Nicole Bartholomeusz.

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Related Article Healthcare Worst-case scenario occupation on the cards over clinic closures However, the relief is explicitly tied to federal funding for GP services. It means the fate of the state government-funded generalist counselling services  used by about 100 clients across five clinics  is still unclear. Bartholomeusz welcomed the short-term federal cash, but she stressed the funding top-up would only buy time. The message to clients is that theres still work to do and that their voices are important to help us secure a longer-term solution, she said. We hear you, we see you, we feel your distress, and we are looking forward to working with you over the next six months. If nothing changes between now and the July 31, then we are in the same position.

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Butler will formally announce the bailout in Melbourne on Thursday morning. In a statement, Butler said the commitment was part of the governments vision for high-quality, affordable primary care close to home. Through this funding, the Albanese government has given certainty to cohealths clients, he said. This will be welcome news for the local communities and will ensure individuals and families can continue access to essential GP services. An emergency meeting held at the Fitzroy Town Hall for local residents about the closure of cohealth clinics on October 24. Eddie Jim First-term federal Labor MPs Sarah Witty and Jo Briskey, whose electorates take in the affected clinics, said the cuts to one of the citys oldest free medical institutions had caused dismay to their constituents. We listened to people in our community, and our government has taken strong and immediate action to keep our vital health services, Witty said.

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Healthcare More health centre closures planned as calls to save cohealth grow Witty won the seat of Melbourne from former Greens leader Adam Bandt at the May election. Cohealth had blamed its planned cuts on inadequate Medicare rebates for complex patients  a federal responsibility  and a lack of state government funding to upgrade its Collingwood facility, which has leaking ceilings and cracked walls. While the federal government has increased Medicare rebates, cohealth says its wraparound services are not suited for appointments billed at shorter intervals and that not enough money was left over to cover nurses, receptionists and other operating costs. The providers deficit widened from $6 million to $7.4 million between 2023 and 2024, largely pegged to increased staffing costs.

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State government funding to redevelop the Collingwood facility remains unresolved, and Bartholomeusz confirmed the boards decision to close the aged building in mid-2026 still stood. Were concerned about staff and client safety in that building, she said. The federal funding will run out four months before the next Victorian state election. Health is expected to be a key battleground and Labor is keen to regain the seat of Richmond  which takes in the Collingwood and Fitzroy clinics  from the Greens.

The proposed changes to cohealth triggered public meetings and protests in Fitzroy and Kensington. The federal and state governments were under pressure from the Greens, the Coalition and a local campaign led by outspoken Yarra Mayor Stephen Jolly to find a solution to keep affected services running.

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Last month the Victorian Greens successfully moved a motion in state parliament calling on the government to step in with an emergency package for cohealth, with $4 million to save GP and counselling services and at least $25 million to upgrade the Collingwood site. The motion was supported by the Coalition and members of the crossbench. Labor MPs did not oppose the motion, but the state government has not pledged any additional money so far. On Thursday, Greens MP for the state seat of Richmond, Gabrielle de Vietri, said she was relieved that community pressure had forced Labor to act. Greens MP Gabrielle de Vietri. Justin McManus But it shouldnt have had to come down to eleventh-hour bailouts or political pressure and its disappointing Labor wouldnt prioritise something as important as healthcare for some of our communitys most vulnerable in the first place, de Vietri. Our community deserves more than stop-gap politics and well keep fighting until we keep cohealth open for our community for good.

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Also on Thursday, Jolly said the community campaign had forced the federal reprieve.



The poorest people in the inner city will keep their bulk-billing GPs for now, and thats a huge win, he said. Itll give us time to organise for a full reversal of the cuts next year. The federal government has pledged to work with the Allan government to commission a review of cohealths operations. That review is expected to release its findings before July next year. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalVictoriaRoads Motorists to pay for pedestrian crossings, bike paths with congestion charge Patrick Hatch November 19, 2025  8:52am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 111 View all comments

Motorists who drive to inner Melbourne will help pay for new pedestrian crossings and bike lanes through an increased parking tax negotiated between the Allan government and the Greens. The controversial expansion of the congestion levy on off-street car parking passed the upper house on Tuesday night with the support of crossbenchers, despite pushback from local councillors and business groups. The car park levy will increase 73 per cent. Luis Enrique Ascui The 73 per cent increase to the levy  intended to reduce congestion by discouraging motorists from driving to the inner city  is expected to raise an extra $100 million a year. The government was able to pass the bill after Treasurer Jaclyn Symes agreed to a request from the Greens to hive off $15 million a year to put into projects that encourage walking and cycling.

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The funds will be distributed to the five inner-city councils where the levy applies: Melbourne, Merri-bek, Port Phillip, Stonnington and Yarra. Related Article Exclusive

Tax reform Tax hike could almost double the cost of parking  if it passes Victorian Greens leader Ellen Sandell said the funds would make walking, riding and public transport safer and more accessible. We need better infrastructure to make active transport a safe and accessible choice, she said.



Thriving cities across the world like Singapore and London are prioritising reducing car use and making riding and walking safer and more accessible. Here in Melbourne, we should be proud to be doing the same. Former treasurer Tim Pallas announced a proposed increase and expansion of the car park levy in December last year, and forecast doing so would almost double the revenue it raises to $229 million in 2026/27.

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The levy will increase from $1690 to $3030 a year in the existing category 1 areas, which include the CBD, Southbank, Kings Domain, Docklands and East Melbourne. The category 2 zone levy will increase from $1240 to $2150 and the area to which it applies will be expanded to include Richmond, Prahran and South Yarra, which are not currently subject to the levy. Car park operators have warned rents would soar by up to 90 per cent under the tax hike, and traders at Queen Victoria Market are concerned it would kill their businesses. City of Melbourne mayor Nick Reece and his deputy Roshena Campbell last week criticised the levy increase, saying it would discourage visitors to the CBD. The time is not right to cripple Melbourne traders. We are doing everything we can to get them back into the city, Campbell said.

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Crossbenchers Rikkie-Lee Tyrrell, from One Nation, and Jeff Bourman, from the Shooters, Fishers and Farmers Party, and the Animal Justice Partys Georgie Purcell also supported the bill. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalVictoriaGo west New mental health clinic opens in western Melbourne as demand surges Lachlan Abbott November 19, 2025  6:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 4 View all comments

In this special series, The Age focuses on Melbournes western suburbs to see how life could improve in Australias fastest-growing region. See all stories .

A new mental health facility has opened in western Melbourne as authorities scramble to service the regions booming population. The 21-bed Sunshine Clinic Private Hospital in St Albans has replaced the Sunshine Private Hospital, which entered voluntary administration last year after just 14 months of operation. Assoc Prof Mahesh Jayaram, Dr Rajiv Siotia and Joy Schaffner outside the new Sunshine Clinic. Jason South Sunshine Clinic chief executive Joy Schaffner said the mental health service on Furlong Road was needed as the Brimbank municipality lacked a similarly specialised private provider. The two closest were in Werribee and Essendon, she said, while the nearby public hospital focused on more acute mental crises.

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Schaffner said the new Sunshine Clinic would focus on patients with low-to-moderate mental health needs, diagnosing and treating illnesses such as depression, bipolar disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and addiction problems. The new mental health service could eventually grow to house 51 beds. Australian Unity owns the $140 million building where the Sunshine Clinic will operate and is still looking to re-let floors for surgery after the collapse of Sunshine Private Hospital last year. Chris Smith, the head of healthcare property for Australian Unity, was confident the new mental health clinic could succeed under a new model that split the hospitals previous two functions into separate tenancies.

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Weve had a short-term, I suppose, aberration, he said. Smith also pointed out that Australian Unity had purchased land near the future Melton Hospital as private healthcare options were even more limited further west, according to an internal analysis of Australian Bureau of Statistics figures. A new mental health facility has opened in St Albans as authorities scramble to service western Melbournes growing healthcare needs. Jason South The Age also reported in September that Greater Melbourne has more than five times as many psychiatrists per capita compared to the City of Melton, and seven times as many psychologists working in community mental health. However, a state government spokesperson pointed to 10 recent projects that addressed mental health in Melbournes west, including new wellbeing locals built in Sunshine and Melton.

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Two more of these hubs  built in response to the Royal Commission into Victorias Mental Health System  are also slated for Werribee and Footscray this year, although the broader rollout was delayed last year due to workforce shortages. Victoria is leading the nation in mental health reform and Melbournes west continues to be a major focus of our investments, a government spokesperson said. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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PoliticsFederalForeign relations $2.5b Nauru deal wont be made public without court challenge or agreement, says Burke Nick Newling November 19, 2025  10:56am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The government will not release the details of a secretive $2.5 billion deal to deport foreign-born criminals to Nauru unless challenged in court or an agreement is signed between the two nations, Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke says. The comments on the deal came as Burke blamed the Liberal Party for stoking discord over immigration and signalled a tightening of federal laws to crack down on increasingly emboldened neo-Nazis. Minister for Home Affairs Tony Burke. Alex Ellinghausen The normal barrier with anything involving another country is we, we wait. Ideally, we wait until theres agreement from both countries for documents to be released, sometimes under the judicial system, of either Australia or Nauru, Burke said of a hidden memorandum of understanding between the two nations. We dont have an agreement between Australia and Nauru at this point in time about the release of the document, he told ABC Radio National on Wednesday morning.

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When that information is provided ... its taken very seriously by the government of Nauru ... I have no doubt that theyre taking those issues very seriously, Burke said. Both Burke and Foreign Minister Penny Wong met Nauruan President David Adeang in Canberra last week, in a meeting that was kept secret until after its conclusion. Wong had earlier raised reports about the Finks deal with Adeang on the sidelines of a Pacific Security College leadership program. Burke also addressed the revocation of South African neo-Nazi Matthew Gruters visa, following his attendance at a rally of National Socialist Network members outside NSW parliament on November 8. Matthew Gruter (third from left) with other members of the NSN outside NSW Parliament on November 8. This bloke, for whatever reason, has decided that he can arrive in Australia and then tell a whole lot of Australian citizens that theyre not welcome here. Well, the person whos not welcome is him, and he can leave, Burke said.

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Exclusive PoliticsFederalBlood Oil Australias biggest super funds accused of profiting from Russian blood oil Matthew Knott November 20, 2025  4:10am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Blood oil: A new series by the Herald and The Age. See all stories . Key points Australian superannuation funds are accused of profiting from the trade of Russian oil via a Malaysian shipping terminal.

An estimated one million tonnes of Russian refined oil product has been offloaded over the last two years at the terminal.

Australian law forbids imports of Russian oil, but allows in refined products from third countries that started out as crude oil produced under Vladimir Putins regime.

Some of Australias biggest superannuation funds have been accused of profiting from shipments of Russian oil passing through South-East Asia, raising fears that Australians retirement savings are helping fund Vladimir Putins war against Ukraine. An estimated 1 million tonnes of Russian oil have been offloaded over the past two years at a shipping terminal in Malaysia co-owned by a company in the portfolio of an investment vehicle controlled by a consortium of Australian industry super funds. Russian oil products are allegedly being shipped via a major facility in Malaysia in which Australian super funds have an indirect interest. Marija Ercegovac As the war in Ukraine approaches its fifth year with no end in sight, smashing the Russian oil sectors business model has emerged as a major priority for Western governments seeking to gain the upper hand over Putin. The Albanese government is investigating ways to close loopholes in sanctions intended to stop Russian oil from entering Australia, but has frustrated the Ukrainian-Australian community by declining to commit to joining recent moves by the European Union and United Kingdom to ban imports of oil products refined in third countries from Russian-origin crude oil.

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Australian imports from Indian refineries using Russian crude more than doubled between September and October, according to the Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air (CREA), a Finnish-based think tank. Related Article Exclusive

Blood Oil Indian refinery pulls Russian oil from Australian petrol amid backlash A group of 16 European Union and Ukrainian civil society organisations this week wrote to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, urging him to close the loophole that allows Russian-origin oil to enter Australia. Every litre of this blood oil undermines Australias sanctions, strengthens Russias war machine, and contradicts support for Ukraine and the rules-based international order, wrote the groups, including B4Ukraine, an international coalition of civil society organisations focused on ending financial support for Putins war effort. IFM Investors, a Melbourne-headquartered fund owned by 15 Australian industry super funds and one British pension fund, controls 45 per cent of global energy storage company Vitol Tank Terminals International (VTTI). This company, in turn, owns the ATB oil terminal in south-west Johor in Malaysia.

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One million tonnes of Russian refined product have been offloaded at the ATB terminal since January 2024, according to an analysis of Kpler trade data by chemical engineer and anti-Russian oil trade campaigner Mark Corrigan. The product is then sent onwards to other destinations. VTTI is clearly handling oil products refined in Russia and arriving by tanker from Russian ports at their terminal, Corrigan wrote in a report sent to the Australian Sanctions Office, which sits within the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade, last week. Oil storage silos near the Port of Tanjung Pelepas in Pontian, Johor, Malaysia. Bloomberg Kateryna Argyrou, chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations (AFUO), said: We are extremely troubled that Australian superannuation funds, through investment managers, are profiting from the Russian blood oil trade. These superannuation funds, meant to benefit Australian workers, are indirectly supporting Russias war by facilitating this trade.

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This raises serious ethical and legal questions, particularly when Australian workers retirement savings are being tied to companies profiting from a trade that directly undermines our countrys sanctions and supports Russias genocidal aggression in Ukraine. She added that the Australian-Ukrainian community is losing confidence in the Albanese governments ability to effectively implement sanctions and follow through on their rhetoric of standing with Ukraine. Kateryna Argyrou, co-chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, said the Ukrainian community was losing faith in the governments ability to implement sanctions. Alex Ellinghausen IFM Investors, which manages an estimated $254 billion in assets, is co-owned by AustralianSuper, Australian Retirement Trust, Hesta, UniSuper, Cbus and other industry superannuation funds, as well as a British pension fund. This masthead asked IFM Investors whether the firm was profiting from the Russian oil trade, given its ownership stake in VTTI, and whether it had any ethical concerns about the companys operations.

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An IFM spokesperson said: We take seriously our responsibility, and that of our funds portfolio companies, to act in accordance with the applicable laws and regulations of the countries we invest and operate in. Related Article Blood Oil Blood oil: How this Australia-bound ship is helping pay for Putins war Foreign Minister Penny Wong has urged Australian businesses to ensure their supply chains are not helping to fund the Putin regime. Australians do expect that their businesses ensure that their supply chains dont inadvertently fund Russias illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine. Businesses should uphold that responsibility and expectation, Wong told Senate estimates hearings in October. Corrigan, the anti-Russian oil campaigner, said: Australias industry superannuants would be within their rights to be furious that their hard-earned nest eggs are being used to support Russias grisly oil trade.

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The umbrella investor, IFM Investors, is abdicating ethical responsibility by allowing tankers of Russian fuel to use their Malaysian asset. AustralianSuper and Australian Retirement Trust did not respond to requests for comment. Karin Op den Kamp, a spokesperson for VTTI, said the energy storage company does not own, purchase, sell, import, or transport any oil, gas, or refined products. VTTI operates strictly in compliance with all applicable laws and sanctions regimes in the jurisdictions in which it operates and maintains effective measures to ensure compliance and awareness of its sanctions-related obligations, she said. Millions of tonnes of Russian oil have also been traded through a Singapore port part-owned by Macquarie Bank, The Guardian reported earlier this month.

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CREA estimates that Australia imported $3.8 billion of oil refined from Russian crude between February 2023 and June 2025, generating $2 billion in tax revenue for the Kremlin. This amount easily eclipses the total military and humanitarian aid Australia has supplied to Ukraine since the war began. According to the think tank, this makes Australia the biggest single importer of Russian-origin fuel products from Indian and Turkish refineries. Polling conducted this month by Resolve for the AFUO found that 50 per cent of Australians support the government insisting fuel importers do not send Russian oil to Australia, with just 10 per cent opposed and 40 per cent neutral or unsure.

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Australian imports from Indian refineries processing Russian crude surged by 140 per cent between September and October, the think tank found in its latest analysis. Reliance Industries, the owner of the worlds biggest oil refinery and largest Indian oil supplier to Australia, told this masthead this week that it would end the use of Russian oil at its Jamnagar refinery from December, a move that could dramatically reduce imports of Russian-origin oil into Australia. Corrigan called for the sanctions office to investigate whether any Russian-origin oil products were also making their way to Australia via Malaysia or Singapore, as well as from India. A DFAT spokesperson said the government had imposed strict sanctions and other trade measures to restrict the importation, purchase and transport of energy products coming from, or that originated in, Russia. The ban extends to Russian oil shipped via third countries, the spokesperson said, adding it was currently unable to track the origin of the feedstock used to produce energy products in third countries.

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The spokesperson said the government was evaluating options to place further pressure on Russias oil revenues and will continue taking action to deny Russia access to Australias markets and ensure Australia does not inadvertently fund Russias war machine. Government sources, who were not authorised to speak publicly, said the government would closely examine the EU and UK mechanisms designed to stop any Russian-origin oil from entering their markets to see whether they would be appropriate for Australia. Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.
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Updated PoliticsFederalClimate policy Turkey refused to budge, so Australia caved. Why is Albanese still calling it a win? Mike Foley, Bianca Hall and Nick O'Malley Updated November 20, 2025  6:03pm ,first published November 20, 2025  8:15am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 164 View all comments

Australia has ditched its bid to host the United Nations COP global climate conference, ceding rights to the prestigious event to Turkey after a three-year contest on the proviso that Pacific nations will still play a key role. Under an unprecedented arrangement, Australias Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen will lead negotiations at the event and Turkey will hold the COP presidency as the host, while the Pacific will host a pre-COP gathering intended to lure pledges for a fund to help the region build its climate change resilience. Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen speaks at COP30 in Belem, Brazil. AP Prime Minister Anthony Albanese played up the deal as outstanding, while Bowen, who has for years been leading Australias effort to host the event in South Australia, promised Pacific nations would still play a key role at the conference that will be held in the coastal city of Antalya. I know some people would be disappointed in that outcome, Bowen said at a five-minute press conference after news of the deal broke, but he argued they would have been more disappointed if the event had defaulted to the German city of Bonn, with no special role carved out for Pacific leaders.

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Significant concession is whats required when you are trying to find consensus, he said in Belem, Brazil. Obviously, it would be great if Australia could have it all. But we cant have it all. This process works on consensus. Loading When the deal is formally signed off on Friday, Bowen will take on the job of running high-end negotiations on climate targets and other commitments, while continuing to oversee Australias renewables rollout, energy supply challenges and other ministerial duties. Despite widespread support for Australia to host the summit, under UN rules, if even one nation objected to Australias hosting bid  as Turkey steadfastly did  the summit could have defaulted to Germany, which did not want it.

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South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas said that while he understood the outcome in an obscene UN process, the federal government should explain why its strategy changed to prioritising a continuing role for the Pacific, but not Adelaide. Related Article Analysis

Climate policy Australia can win big international bids when it wants. This was an omnishambles Those are questions for the federal government to answer in terms of why they took the negotiating position they have, he said. Albanese, who raised eyebrows among climate campaigners when he did not visit Belem to push Australias bid, declared the outcome a win for Australia and the region. The prime minister said Australia had finalised its offer to Turkey after consulting Pacific leaders, including Papua New Guinea Prime Minister James Marape and Fiji Prime Minister Sitiveni Rabuka.

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The pre-COP31 meeting to be held at the Pacific Islands Forum was an outstanding result, he said. That will enable us to invite world leaders to make sure that the issues confronting this region, the very existence of island states such as Tuvalu and Kiribati, the issue of our oceans  all of those issues will be front and centre, Albanese said. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the deal made for a pre-conference meeting in the Pacific was an outstanding result. Sam Mooy Former Tuvalu prime minister Bikenibeu Paeniu told AFP the decision demonstrated the non-committal of Australia to climate justice. Each year, about 280 people from the tiny island nation can move to Australia under a special visa to escape the impact of rising sea levels.

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The Pacific countries should seriously remodel their relationship with Australia, Paeniu said. Photo: Matt Golding Papua New Guinea foreign minister Justin Tkatchenko also expressed his frustration to AFP, saying: We are all not happy. And disappointed its ended up like this. Foreign Minister Penny Wong noted at a press conference in New Delhi that she had been saying for a number of weeks that the first priority had been how do we elevate Pacific voices? How do we bring leaders and officials to the Pacific? How do we make sure that the issues that the Pacific care about are on the COP agenda? And the sort of compromise that is being worked through does that precisely. At this years COP30 in Belem, 83 countries from the Pacific, Africa, Asia and Latin America jointly called for a road map to transition the globe from fossil fuels.

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Greenpeace Australia Pacific chief executive David Ritter said Australia was a notable absence from the press conference calling for a phase-out. Opposition Leader Sussan Ley celebrated the bids failure, saying the loss would save the expense of hosting. The fact that this government even considered spending $2 billion of taxpayers money on this exercise just goes to show how their priorities are all wrong, she said at a press conference in Melbourne. Related Article Political Sketch

Climate crisis Australia beaten by the Turks. Dont mention the war Greens leader Larissa Waters said the government did not actually want to host COP31, arguing it would have shone an unwelcome spotlight on Australias fossil fuel production.

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Pacific Minister Pat Conroy described the outcome as a good result for Australia and the Pacific. In a speech in Newcastle on Thursday night, Conroy blasted the Coalition for abandoning the goal of reducing carbon emissions to net zero by 2050. He described the decision as the biggest surrender in national security credibility by conservative parties since Menzies advocated for doing a peace deal with Hitler 10 days after he invaded Poland, or when Menzies opposed the expansion of the Australian Army before World War II. Shiva Gounden, the Pacific head of Greenpeace Australia Pacific, said it was disappointing that Australia had lost hosting rights, but the decision mattered less than a meaningful outcome from the talks. The Pacifics fight for survival does not rise or fall on a single hosting decision, he said.

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With Bloomberg, Matthew Knott Cut through the noise of federal politics with news, views and expert analysis. Subscribers can sign up to our weekly Inside Politics newsletter.
Jo-Ann Flood is a corporate executive and a single mum; when she was unexpectedly asked to leave her Malvern East rental she struggled to find a home after looking and applying for months. But she was still evicted by the Victorian Civil and Administrative Tribunal.

The reasoning that the  member gave was that the notice was valid, the owners estate is entitled to sell their property, and youve been given enough time, she said, adding the member acknowledged Floods vulnerability as a single mother of three children. In granting the possession order, the member gave Flood 60 days to find a new home, instead of the usual 30 days.

Jo-Ann Flood said the stress of being evicted while being unable to find a new home caused her to be hospitalised twice. Credit: Simon Schluter

A VCAT member must only give a possession order, the final step in an eviction, if it is reasonable and proportionate. Last year a single mother on the disability support pension was protected from eviction because it would have rendered her homeless. Flood felt her circumstances werent taken into consideration.

Im separated from my family [in Perth]  when Ive got three teenage boys and no financial support from their father. I also went to the heart hospital with heart palpitations at 150 beats per minute by ambulance  The doctors said it was caused by stress. Flood said she went to the emergency department with another stress-related illness while searching for a new home.
Perths house price growth is predicted to slow in the new year  but not by much  as the citys median house price pushes past the $1 million median by the years end.

Domains Forecast Report for 2026, released on Thursday, predicted Perth will end the year with a 9 per cent property price growth, ranking it alongside Sydney, Brisbane and Adelaide, which were all expected to have grown by the same rate.

That price growth is expected to continue through 2026, albeit at a lower rate of about 5 per cent, according to the Domain report.

The citys momentum remains underpinned by a combination of lower interest rates, strong income growth, and first-home buyer support, the report read.
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TechnologyAI Very beautiful: A new robot dances for Putin days after embarrassing faceplant Reuters November 20, 2025  5:20am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

An AI-powered robot danced for President Vladimir Putin on Wednesday at an exhibition put on by Sberbank, Russias largest bank, designed to showcase the companys technological advances. The performance, which was shown on state TV, showed the Kremlin chief standing opposite the humanoid robot as it explained to him what it was before dancing to what it said was its favourite track. Putin called the robots performance very beautiful and thanked it before continuing his tour. AP My name is Green. I am the first Russian humanoid robot with embedded artificial intelligence. This means that I am not just a program on a screen, but a physical embodiment of technology, the robot told Putin. Sberbank says the robots software will be constantly upgraded, that it has the potential to perform physical tasks, and that a pilot project will see it integrated into parts of its business.

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The unusual event was watched closely by Putins bodyguards, one of whom stood between the robot and the Russian leader afterwards to make sure it moved away from him and did not get too close. Putin called the robots performance very beautiful and thanked it before continuing his tour. View post on X Putin also inspected one of Sberbanks new generation smart cash machines which with the help of a camera can give customers a summary of their health based on 10 indicators such as pulse and blood pressure. Putin said at that event that hed been through one of his regular health checkups recently and that everything was fine with him.

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The performance comes days after the Moscow presentation of another Russian robot purported to harness AI  called Aidol  went wrong after the robot fell flat on its face shortly after appearing on stage. Loading Organisers quickly dragged the machine away, raising a black drape to shield it from about 50 journalists who had gathered to watch the demonstration, an inauspicious entry for Russia into the increasingly competitive international space of AI-powered robots resembling humans. At first, there was a moment of silence, Dmitry Filonov, editor-in-chief of Edinorog Media, who was in the audience and covers technology startups, said in a text message. Then they began to applaud to show their support. Vladimir Vitukhin, AIDOLs chief executive, told Russian state news agency Tass that the robot was still in the stages of learning.

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AI Afraid an AI robot is coming for your job? It might be here to help Jo Masters Contributor I hope this mistake will turn into an experience, he said. Vitukhin said the robot had been tested in a variety of conditions before the debut - on stones, carpet, laminate, expanded clay and slippery floors, according to the Moscow Times. He said he believed Tuesdays fall was probably the result of a voltage fluctuation and other environmental factors, including the lighting, but added: Surely everyone felt sorry for it, and thats one of its functions - to evoke sympathy, the newspaper added. Reuters, Bloomberg Get news and reviews on technology, gadgets and gaming in our Technology newsletter every Friday. Sign up here.

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WorldMiddle EastIsraeli-Palestinian conflict Israel targets Lebanon with airstrike that kills 13 Mohammad Zatari November 19, 2025  9:01am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Sidon: An Israeli airstrike on a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon on Tuesday killed 13 people and wounded several others, state media and government officials said. It was the deadliest strike on Lebanon since a ceasefire in the Israel-Hezbollah war a year ago. The drone strike hit a car in the parking lot of a mosque in the Ein al-Hilweh refugee camp on the outskirts of the coastal city of Sidon, the state-run National News Agency said. The Lebanese Health Ministry said 13 people were killed and several others wounded, without giving further details. People gather near ambulances ferrying victims of the strike at Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon. AP Hamas fighters in the area prevented journalists from reaching the scene, as ambulances rushed to evacuate the wounded and the dead. The Israeli military said it struck a Hamas training compound that was used to prepare an attack against Israel and its army. It added that the Israeli army would continue to act against Hamas wherever the group operates.

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Hamas condemned the attack in a statement, saying the strike hit a sports playground and denying that it was a training site. The airstrike came three days after Israeli military forces opened fire on United Nations peacekeepers in southern Lebanon on Sunday  an incident the United Nations peacekeeping mission described as a serious violation. The mission said the peacekeepers were on foot when Israel fired on them from a Merkava tank. The fire landed within five metres of them, forcing them to seek shelter. None of the UN forces were wounded, and the tank withdrew after peacekeepers contacted the Israeli military through official channels, the UN mission said. The Israeli military confirmed its soldiers opened fire on two suspects in the El Hamames area near the Israeli border, only later realising they were UN peacekeepers. The incident is under review.

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Israel occupies five posts within Lebanon and frequently carries out airstrikes in the countrys south that it says are targeting Iran-backed militant group Hezbollah. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Like The Truman Show: Ex-Israeli spies reveal details of exploding pager plot against Hezbollah Over the past two years, Israeli airstrikes on Lebanon have killed scores of officials from Hezbollah, as well as Palestinian factions such as Hamas. Saleh Arouri, the deputy political head of Hamas and a founder of the groups military wing, was killed in a drone strike on a southern suburb of Beirut on January 2, 2024. Several other Hamas officials have been killed in strikes since then. Hamas led the October 7, 2023, attack on southern Israel during which about 1200 people were killed. That sparked Israels offensive on the Gaza Strip that killed tens of thousands of Palestinians, according to the Gaza Health Ministry.

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A day after the Israel-Hamas war started, Hezbollah began firing rockets towards Israeli posts along the border. Israel responded with shelling and airstrikes in Lebanon, and the two sides became locked in an escalating conflict that became a full-blown war in late September 2024. Related Article Israeli-Palestinian conflict Trumps Gaza peace plan approved by United Nations Security Council That war, the most recent of several conflicts involving Hezbollah over the past four decades, killed more than 4000 people in Lebanon, including hundreds of civilians, and caused an estimated $16.9 billion worth of destruction, according to the World Bank. In Israel, 127 people died, including 80 soldiers. The war ended in late November 2024 with a US-brokered ceasefire. Since then, Israel has carried out scores of airstrikes in Lebanon, saying that Hezbollah is trying to rebuild its capabilities. Lebanons Health Ministry has reported more than 270 people killed and around 850 wounded by Israeli military actions since the ceasefire.

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PUPILS from Tullow Community School, local elected representatives, and the Chief Executive of Carlow County Council, Coilin OReilly joined Uisce Eireann to celebrate the completion of vital water network upgrades in Tullow town centre. More than 2.1km of old and damaged pipes have been replaced, marking a significant step towards their continued commitment to improving the water network for the local community.

This essential upgrade will reduce water loss, enhance pressure and strengthen the resilience of the water network, ensuring a more reliable supply for homes and businesses in Tullow.

Ian Furlong, Programme Manager with Uisce Eireann, said: We are committed to delivering a secure and reliable water supply to communities across Ireland. The works in Tullow town are part of that effort, ensuring fewer disruptions, improved water quality and a network thats fit for the future. Were delighted the community could join us today to mark this milestone. We want to thank the people of Tullow for their patience and support throughout these essential works. Mr OReilly, CE of Carlow County Council, added: This investment in Tullows water infrastructure is a major boost for the town. Reliable water services are fundamental to community life, economic development and housing delivery. These upgrades will deliver long-term benefits for residents and businesses. We welcome Uisce Eireanns continued commitment to improving the water network across Carlow. The works were delivered on behalf of Uisce Eireann by Shareridge.
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Perus cement consumption advanced 9.4 per cent YoY to 1.232Mt in October 2025 when compared with October 2024, when the level stood at 1.126Mt, according to the countrys cement association, ASOCEM. Of this total, 1.09Mt was dispatched by the associations members, up from 1.019Mt in the year-ago period.

Domestic cement output was up 5.7 per cent YoY to 1.079Mt in October 2025 from 1.021Mt, while clinker production surged 36.1 per cent YoY to 0.865Mt from 0.636Mt.

Cement exports fell by seven period cent YoY to 10,837t from 11,600t, but clinker exports more than tripled to 108,345t in October 2025 from 35,800t in the equivalent period of the previous year.

However, cement imports soared to 157,233t in October 2025 from 32,000t in October 2024. The majority of this volume  94.4 per cent  was imported from Vietnam, with a minor share (5.6 per cent) from Chile. While the average CIF import price per tonne remained stable at US$77 for imports through the port of Maharani, the equivalent price for imports through the port of Chancay declined by US$6.50 when compared with January 2025. Imports arriving at the land terminal of Tacna saw their average CIF price increase by 4.6 per cent YoY to US$132/t.

Clinker imports increased by 199.8 per cent YoY to 130,055t in October 2025 from 43,000t in the year-ago period. A total of 71.9 per cent of these were imported from South Korea while the balance originated in Ecuador. The average CIF import price for imports through the port of Callao saw a 2.9 per cent uptick to US$50 when compared with October 2024, but in Pisco, the equivalent price was down 13.1 per cent to US$42 when compared with December 2024.
Bravolebrity Captain Lee Rosbach is setting sail with Auto Square Chattanooga as their new brand ambassador. Representing Land Rover, Porsche and INFINITI in the Chattanooga market, Capt. Lee will be in town on Wednesday for a book signing.Officials said, "Rosbach is well known as captain on Bravos Below Deck, a role that featured him over ten seasons. Nicknamed the Stud of the Sea for his no-nonsense professional demeanor, Capt. Lee provided a balance to some of the dramatic crew conflicts and sometimes demanding guests featured on each cruise."His book, Running Against the Tide, published by Gallery Books will be available at Land Rover of Chattanooga for a public event on Wednesday at 6 p.m.Auto Square leadership noted that Capt.Lee is a natural fit for their luxury brands. Capt. Lee has decades of experience working with a clientele who appreciates the finer things in life, said Steven Dunn, executive general manager of Auto Square. We can think of no one better to represent the Land Rover, Porsche and INFINITI brands in this market than someone with his experience. Were thrilled to welcome him to our market and invite the public to join us on Wednesday.The book signing will be held inside the Land Rover dealership at 2915 Yerby Dr. in Chattanooga.
The University of Tennessee at Chattanooga School of Nursing is partnering with the Tennessee Department of Health (TDH) to expand access to cardiovascular care for older adults in rural Southeast Tennessee.Building on the success of the Universitys MobileMOC program, the new initiativetitled Connecting Community Partners: Breaking Down Barriers to Heart Healthis designed to connect senior centers, local providers and community resources to help older adults monitor and manage their blood pressure while learning practical ways to maintain heart health.The initiative aligns with the states cardiovascular health priorities by addressing barriers to care and promoting equitable access to prevention and follow-up resourcesparticularly for older adults in rural communities.The project is led by Dr.Kristi Wick, UC Foundation associate professor and Vicky B. Gregg Chair in Gerontology, and Dr. Meagan Oslund, assistant professor of practice in the UTC School of Nursing.This grant is a complement to MobileMOC, Oslund said. We already provide really great services, but this is adding an emphasis on cardiovascular health to the services we already offer.Launched in March 2025, the MobileMOC medical outreach clinic is a custom-built mobile health unit operated by the School of Nursing. The clinic brings interdisciplinary careincluding nursing, occupational therapy, social work and public healthto 10 counties across Southeast Tennessee.MobileMOC is part of the broader ROAD MAP initiative, which connects UTC faculty, students and community partners to address health disparities and build a stronger rural health care workforce.Oslund said the new TDH grant focuses on empowering rural residentsparticularly older adultsto take charge of their heart health.This grant is about looking at heart health from a three-pronged approachself-measurement, community resources, and education about lifestyle changes, Oslund said. Yes, patients are taking their blood pressure, but if its high, then what? So we want to connect the patient to the right resource for a timely evaluation.Wick said access to timely care is challenging when living in rural Tennessee given health care workforce shortages, hospital closures and lack of social resources such as healthy nutrition and transportation.This grant will help connect people to quality care and resources faster along with providing follow-up to ensure health issues are addressed long-term.Cardiovascular health requires all-inclusive lifestyle modifications to mitigate risk of poor health outcomes such as stroke or death, Oslund said.A key element of the project is a closed-loop referral system, ensuring that every screening connects back to the right care team.Beginning in January 2026, blood pressure monitoring kiosks will be installed in senior centers in Bradley, McMinn, Meigs, Polk and Rhea counties. Each kiosk will allow users to check their blood pressure as often as they like. Readings that indicate risk will trigger referrals for follow-up care.Data from each kiosk will be integrated into MobileMOCs electronic health record system, enabling the team to track outcomes and assess the long-term impact across participating counties.Oslund said nurse practitioners from the MobileMOC team will visit the same senior centers that house the kiosks, providing blood pressure follow-up and heart health education. Monthly programs hosted by a MobileMOC community health worker will address topics such as stress, sleep, smoking cessation, nutrition and exercise.We actually have an OT capstone student coming in and working with our nurse and community health worker for a more well-rounded approach to each of those topics as part of that interdisciplinary team, she said.Oslund, an occupational therapist who received her Doctor of Occupational Therapy degree from UTC in 2021, joined the MobileMOC team in January 2025 as the interprofessional education and practice coordinator.She previously spent nearly four years as an occupational therapist at CHI Memorial Hospital in Chattanooga, specializing in stroke care in the neuro intensive care unit. That experience shaped her focus on prevention and accessibility.At Memorial, I spent a lot of time in the neuro ICU, she explained. You see older adults with strokes and brain bleeds and all these kinds of things. I would get so frustrated that there were all of these older adults who lived in these rural counties and they had no follow-up, nowhere to go for resources or therapy. So Ive shifted my mindset to how we can prevent this catastrophe from happening in the first place.That perspective led her to UTCs interprofessional health initiatives.I could just see the benefit, she said. If you have education, nutrition, social work, OT and nursing on the front end of things, we can prevent some of these catastrophic events from happening later on.
The Kids Club in Collegedale will meet this Thursday in Founders Hall at the Collegedale Commons, 4750 Swinyar Dr., to learn how to make a variety of fun Thanksgiving crafts.Open to children ages six to 13, kids are welcome to drop in from 4-4:45 p.m. to enjoy Thanksgiving Crafting Time.For more information, contact parksandrec@collegedaletn.gov, or call 423-468-1971.
The City of Chattanoogas Public Art division, part of Chattanooga Arts Culture and Creative Economy, is officially announcing an open Call to Artists for the City Stages project. This initiative seeks to "enhance the citys vibrant performing arts scene and activate key public spaces by creating four distinct, temporary sidewalk murals that will designate official street performance zones."Officials said, "Funded by a Creative Placemaking Grant from the Tennessee Arts Commission, City Stages will transform everyday sidewalks into dynamic, recognizable hubs for spontaneous cultural experiences.These artist-designed visual markers aim to formally structure visibility for hired performers, celebrate Chattanoogas musical and cultural identity, and increase pedestrian activity to support local businesses."The project is seeking up to four professional visual artists or artist teams to design and install the temporary asphalt art murals.Project Details: Artwork: 2D asphalt art murals, sized between 4'x4' and 6'x6'. Locations: Four high-traffic cultural areas: Renaissance Park (Northshore); Coolidge Park (Frazier Ave alley entrance); Miller Plaza (Downtown); and St. Elmo Avenue (Incline Railway).Each selected artist/team will receive $4,290 for design, fabrication and installation, including materials and travel.The goal is "to create durable, site-specific designs that invite public interaction and enhance the urban environment for up to three years."The application window is open now. Professional visual artists and artist teams over the age of 18 are eligible to apply.Application Deadline: Dec. 22Artist Selection: Week of Jan. 12, 2026Artwork Installation: March  May 2026Interested artists must submit their applications, including a resume, a statement of interest and eight to 10 sample images of past work, through the online platform CaFE. Link to apply is here "The City of Chattanooga looks forward to reviewing submissions that demonstrate artistic excellence, originality and a capacity to create engaging, durable public artwork that strengthens the citys identity as a hub for music and the arts," officials said.
Chattanooga attorney Logan Davis appeared before the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals on Tuesday to argue on behalf of 87-year-old Earl David Maney, who was convicted of voluntary manslaughter following a 2022 jury trial that acquitted him of both first- and second-degree murder.

Attorney Lee Davis, of the same Davis and Hoss firm, said, "The case, State of Tennessee v. Earl David Maney, has become one of the more closely watched criminal appeals out of Southeast Tennessee - partly because of the unusual facts, partly because of the contested evidentiary issue at the center of the appeal, and partly because of the defendants profound age-related medical decline."

Logan Davis delivered the oral argument in Knoxville on Tuesday before a panel consisting of Presiding Judge Robert W. Wedemeyer, Judge Camille R. McMullen, and Judge Matthew Wilson.

The appeal arises from a confrontation on April 20, 2020, at one of Maneys commercial rental properties in Cleveland, Tn. According to trial testimony, Maney entered the premises of Fowler Auto Sales to address tenant complaints about loud tire burnouts. A confrontation ensued between Maney and two younger tenants, Logan Fowler and Taylor Ballew.

An acquaintance of the tenants, 57-year-old Ricky Rogers, entered during the dispute. The states evidence showed that after Maney and Fowler got into an altercation, Rogers approached, told Maney to let the younger man go, and warned he would knock Maneys ass out. Rogers then struck Maney hard enough to knock the octogenarian to the ground. As Maney fell, he drew his handgun and fired a single shot. Rogers died at the scene from a gunshot wound to the chest.

At trial, Maney asserted self-defense and exercised his constitutional right not to testify. The jury acquitted him of murder but convicted him of voluntary manslaughter, a Class C felony.

Attorney Lee Davis said, "One of the central issues argued by Logan Davis on appeal concerns testimony from the states only eyewitness, tenant Mike Nunley, who witnessed the physical fight and the shooting. During Nunleys direct examination, the prosecution asked him: What kind of threat was Mr. Rogers presenting? and, after an objection, Describe any threat you saw that Mr. Rogers was presenting to the defendant.

"Defense counsel objected each time, arguing that Nunley was being asked to speculate an offer opinion testimony about the defendants perception of dangeran essential element of self-defense that is reserved for the jury, and which the defendant could not rebut without waiving his Fifth Amendment right not to testify. Despite repeated objections, the trial court allowed Nunley to answer. Nunley stated that he didnt see any threat at that time.

"In the appellate brief, Davis argues that this testimony crossed the line into impermissible lay opinion under Tennessee Rule of Evidence 701(a). The defense emphasizes that Nunley had already provided a detailed factual narrative and demonstrated no difficulty describing what he saw. The threat questions, Davis contends, were not necessary to clarify his testimony - they invited a conclusion about the ultimate fact the jury was required to decide.

"Davis argued before the court that allowing Nunley to characterize the threat (or lack of threat) effectively allowed the State to place before the jury an opinion about Maneys internal perception, forcing the jury to weigh a lay witnesss subjective assessment of danger against the defendants silence. This, she maintained, infringed upon Maneys constitutional right not to testify.

"The second major issue concerns the trial courts decision to impose 11 months and 29 days of confinement followed by supervised probation, despite acknowledging on the record that jail time could be a death sentence for Maney.

"At sentencing, the trial court recognized Maneys advanced age, Alzheimers disease, diabetic and hereditary neuropathy, atherosclerotic heart disease, chronic spinal issues, and multiple other serious conditions. Nonetheless, the court concluded that confinement was necessary to serve as general deterrence.

"Shortly thereafter, Maney served two weeks in the Bradley County Jailan experience that the defense says caused a significant medical decline. Jail staff failed to properly administer prescribed medications, including Alzheimers and neuropathy drugs. According to affidavits, it took six months after his release for Maney to stabilize, and he never regained the short-term memory loss that resulted during that period.

"In subsequent motions, the defense sought home confinement, providing medical testimony from Maneys daughter and full-time caregiver, a registered nurse. The trial court denied all requests, relying heavily on 13 pages of jail records covering only five daysrecords the defense argues are grossly inadequate to support the conclusion that the jail can safely house him.

"On Tuesday, Logan Davis argued that the sentencing court abused its discretion by failing to give proper weight to Maneys exceptional vulnerability and by relying on speculative or insufficient evidence from jail medical staff.

"The case raises two issues that extend beyond the specifics of this altercation: how far lay witnesses may go in expressing opinions about threats in self-defense cases, particularly when the defendant does not testify, and how Tennessee courts should treat sentencing for extremely elderly and medically fragile defendants, especially given the realities of county jail medical staffing."

The appellate judges questioned both sides closely. A written opinion from the Tennessee Court of Criminal Appeals is expected in the coming months.

This is a link to the arguments:

https://youtu.be/fH97H6gl6Z4




Cleveland, Tennessees Tom Rowland will celebrate his 94th birthday this Saturday. The Tennessees longest serving mayor and retired Bradley County broadcaster was honored Tuesday at the WCLE radio studio in Cleveland, where Mr. Rowland spent many years behind the mic, and later purchased the station.The Air Force Veteran received many awards, including being named Tennessee Associate Press Broadcaster of the year in 1980. Under Mr. Rowland's leadership, Clevelands population grew over 15,000 in the 26 years he was mayor.The Cleveland Regional Jetport was established while Mr.Rowland was mayor. He was also the driving force behind The Museum Center at Five Points and in the history of Cleveland and Bradley counties, including printing of the Red Back Hymnal.
The longest federal shutdown in American history ended with legislation that included $1,500,000 funding for upgrades to Erlanger Bledsoe Hospital, which serves patients in Pikeville, and residents of the surrounding region.U.S. Representative Scott DesJarlais requested this funding, which was included in the federal appropriations bill passed by the U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives. President Donald J. Trump signed the bill last Wednesday, reopening the federal government and directing this funding to Erlanger Western Carolina Hospital."I want to thank the Erlanger team for all they do to bring high-quality access to rural healthcare to Tennessees Fourth Congressional District.It is my honor to partner with them to provide much needed upgrades to their Bledsoe County facility," said Congressman DesJarlais.Officials said, "This significant federal funding will enable Erlanger Bledsoe Hospital to expand the impact of its medical facility in the region, enabling Erlanger to provide healthcare to rural populations on a larger scale and with greater efficiency. Specific details related to facility improvements will be released at a later date."Future patients at Erlanger Bledsoe Hospital will directly benefit from Congressman DesJarlais work to deliver federal funding to our facility in Pikeville, said Stephanie Boynton, market president and CEO of Outreach. I am grateful to Congressman DesJarlais for partnering with Erlanger Bledsoe in our mission to deliver excellent healthcare to rural Tennesseans.
Attorney General Jonathan Skrmetti announced today that Tennessee has joined a multistate settlement with Greystar Management Services, LLC, the nation's largest property management company, to resolve allegations of anticompetitive practices that resulted in artificially-increased rents for Tennesseans. Greystar reached a non-monetary settlement with the United States Department of Justice this August.A bipartisan coalition investigated Greystars participation in an algorithmic pricing scheme in which property management companies shared supply and pricing data with their competitors through RealPages revenue management software. The States alleged that by sharing sensitive rental data, competitors artificially inflated and aligned rental prices and reduced competition in the multi-family housing market.Greystar manages nearly 950,000 rental units nationwide, including more than 6,000 in Tennessee. This settlement represents one step in broader enforcement efforts, with litigation continuing against RealPage and four other property management companies.Tennessee renters were stuck paying too much because property management companies shared information through the RealPage software to artificially inflate prices, said AG Skrmetti. Its not fair, its not right, and we are putting a stop to it by holding these companies accountable.The proposed consent decree, if approved by the Court, would require Greystar to: Refrain from using any anticompetitive algorithm that generates pricing recommendations using its competitors competitively sensitive data or that incorporates certain anticompetitive features; Refrain from sharing competitively sensitive information with competitors; Accept a court-appointed monitor if it uses a third-party pricing algorithm that is not certified pursuant to the terms of the consent decree; Refrain from attending or participating in RealPage-hosted meetings of competing landlords; and Cooperate with the coalitions claims against RealPage.Tennessee joined California, Colorado, Connecticut, Illinois, Massachusetts, Minnesota, North Carolina and Oregon in securing this settlement.Read the settlement here
The Scenic City Chorale, a non-profit chorus in Chattanooga, will present its annual Christmas Concert this Sunday afternoon at 3 p.m. at First Cumberland Presbyterian Church.In the spirit of Peace to All Mankind, the Chorale is using this first Sunday in Advent as an opportunity to share the sweet, soft, kind side of the holiday season with a little humor thrown in, officials said. The concert will highlight the contributions of John Rutter, Christina Rosetti and the Roberts  William Roberts, Robert Russell Bennett and Robert Shaw.About the honorees:Sir John Milford Rutter is a composer, conductor, arranger and record producer noted for his choral and orchestral works.Many international musical groups are honoring him this year as he celebrates his 80th birthday.Christina Rosetti (18301894) was an English writer of romantic, devotional and childrens poems. Her poem, Christmas Hath a Darkness, is set to original music by William Bradley Roberts.Robert Shaw (19161999) was an American conductor most famous for his eponymous chorale founded in 1948. Among numerous postings, Mr. Shaw was musical director and conductor of the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra from 196788. In 1971, Robert Shaw and Robert Russell Bennett created The Many Moods of Christmas, four suites of four carols each. Mr. Shaw contributed the choral work and Mr. Bennett, the arrangements and orchestration.
Akzo Nobel N.V. and Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. announced theyve entered into a definitive agreement to combine in an all-stock merger of equals, creating a premier global coatings company with an enterprise value of approximately $25 billion.

The combination brings together two coatings industry leaders with complementary portfolios of highly regarded brands to better serve customers across key end markets and enhance value for shareholders, employees and other stakeholders. Anchored in both companies proud histories and broad expertise, the combined business will have a highly attractive financial profile, industry-leading innovation capabilities and a balanced global footprint spanning over 160 countries to bring global capabilities to local customers.

With attractive margins and robust cash flow generation, the combined company will be well positioned to drive substantial growth and shareholder value creation, building on 2024 revenues of approximately $17 billion and $1.5 billion in pro forma Adjusted Free Cash Flow.1,2,3The combination is expected to drive identified and actionable run-rate synergies of approximately $600 million, 90% of which are expected to be achieved within the first three years following the close of the transaction.

Greg Poux-Guillaume, Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of the Board of Management of AkzoNobel: Were excited to enter a new chapter in our long and proud history as a leader in the paints and coatings industry. This merger will allow us to accelerate our growth ambitions by bringing together highly complementary technologies, expertise and passionate people to unlock our full combined potential. Im excited to lead our talented teams in bringing the best of both companies to our customers and shareholders, delivering outstanding value to both.

Ben Noteboom, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of AkzoNobel: This combination represents a compelling opportunity. Its a great value proposition for all our stakeholders, both in the Netherlands  where we maintain our domicile  and internationally, including our shareholders, customers and employees. It will create a world leader in coatings and is a significant step that will drive sustainable growth and allow us to better serve our customers. By uniting two world class organizations, were creating a strong platform for the future, built on a solid foundation of shared values and heritage.

Chris Villavarayan, CEO and President of Axalta: We are pleased to enter into this transaction with AkzoNobel and join our best-in-class platforms to enhance innovation, develop new capabilities and further strengthen customer relationships. As our industry continues to grow and evolve, this combination with AkzoNobel enables us to do the same, with a sharper competitive edge and new avenues and opportunities for growth. Together, AkzoNobel and Axalta are positioned to establish a profitable and sustainable path forward as a leader in the coatings industry. Like AkzoNobel, we value our people as our greatest asset, and we are excited to unite our rich, innovation-focused cultures.

Rakesh Sachdev, Chair of the Axalta Board of Directors: The Axalta Board is confident that this combination with AkzoNobel will create significant value for our shareholders as we move ahead. Led by an experienced management team with a track record of operational efficiency and excellence, we expect the meaningful synergy opportunities and enhanced financial profile of the combined company will drive substantial value creation. We look forward to joining Axaltas and AkzoNobels strengths to create new opportunities across our global stakeholder base.

Compelling strategic and financial benefits of the transaction Diversified and balanced portfolio of leading brands. The merger brings together AkzoNobels and Axaltas complementary portfolios to create a full spectrum offering of coatings solutions, with first-rate franchises across Powder, Aerospace, Refinish, Mobility, Marine and Protective, Industrial Coatings and Decorative Paints. The combined portfolio will be differentiated by its breadth of solutions across approximately 100 well-known brands

Increased geographic scale and enhanced commercial reach. The combined company will have an enhanced global footprint spanning 173 manufacturing sites and 91 R&D facilities worldwide, enabling it to bring global capabilities to local customers. Through increased local presence in key geographies, AkzoNobel and Axalta customers are expected to benefit from deep channel access to coatings and product support, further strengthening customer relationships

Enhanced capabilities to deliver customer-centric innovation. The combination will enable AkzoNobel and Axalta to deliver increasingly advanced and differentiated products by combining existing technological capabilities across end markets. Joining Axaltas Refinish, Light Vehicle and Commercial and Industrial Coatings businesses with AkzoNobels Powder Coatings, Refinish, Aerospace Coatings, Marine and Protective Coatings, Industrial Coatings and Decorative Paints businesses will create an innovative platform to deliver exceptional value to customers. In addition, sharing best practices across two leading research platforms in the coatings space is expected to accelerate high-value innovation. The combined company will have approximately $400 million combined annual R&D spend, 91 R&D facilities for local customer needs, approximately 4,200 research fellows, scientists and engineers, and around 3,200 granted and pending patent applications

Substantial synergy opportunities driving value creation. The combination is expected to generate pre-tax run-rate synergies of approximately $600 million, with 90% of synergies expected to be achieved within the first three years following the close of the transaction. The targeted synergies are identified and actionable, arising primarily from procurement, SG&A efficiencies, footprint optimization and improved supply chain management

Highly attractive financial profile with strong margins and substantial cash flow generation. Inclusive of run-rate synergies, the combined company is expected to have industry-leading profitability with strong Adjusted EBITDA margins approaching 20%1 and substantial cash flow generation. Revenues are expected to be approximately $17 billion, with Adjusted EBITDA of $3.3 billion and pro forma Adjusted Free Cash Flow of $1.5 billion. This will provide significant flexibility to support strategic and capital allocation priorities, including consistent capital returns through a regular dividend. Net leverage is targeted to be 2.0x to 2.5x, with a strong commitment to holding an investment grade credit rating Leadership, corporate governance and headquarters Upon closing, the combined company will have a one-tier Board, led by Rakesh Sachdev, current Chair of the Axalta Board of Directors. Ben Noteboom, current Chairman of the AkzoNobel Supervisory Board, will serve as Vice-Chair. The Board will be composed of 11 directors  four from each company and three independent members. Of the 11 Board members, two will be executive directors and nine will be non-executive directors. Each company expects to hold its respective Extraordinary General Meeting of Shareholders tentatively in mid-2026.

Current AkzoNobel CEO, Greg Poux-Guillaume, will serve as CEO of the combined company, and current Axalta CEO, Chris Villavarayan, will serve as Deputy CEO. Current Axalta SVP and CFO, Carl Anderson, will serve as the CFO of the combined company. Current AkzoNobel CFO, Maarten de Vries, will retire from AkzoNobel prior to closing as previously announced.

The combined company will assume a new name and ticker symbol, which will be announced in due course, and will have dual headquarters in Amsterdam and Philadelphia. It will be organized under a Dutch holding company with tax residency in the Netherlands. Following a period of dual listing on Euronext Amsterdam and the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), shares of the combined companys common stock will be listed solely on NYSE.

Transaction details Under the terms of the agreement, which has been unanimously approved by the AkzoNobel Supervisory Board, the AkzoNobel Board of Management and the Axalta Board of Directors, Axalta shareholders will receive 0.6539 shares of AkzoNobel stock for each share of Axalta common stock owned.

In connection with the transaction, AkzoNobel will pay a special cash dividend to AkzoNobel shareholders equal to 2.5 billion minus the aggregate amount of any regular annual and interim dividends paid by AkzoNobel to AkzoNobel shareholders in 2026 prior to completion. AkzoNobel shareholders will own 55% and Axalta shareholders will own 45% of the combined company on a pro forma basis immediately after closing.

The companies expect the transaction to close in late 2026 to early 2027, subject to approval by shareholders of both AkzoNobel and Axalta, the receipt of requisite regulatory approvals, authorization for the combined companys shares to be listed on NYSE, payment of the special dividend by AkzoNobel, completion of AkzoNobels works council consultation requirements and the satisfaction of other customary closing conditions.

Dividends and share buybacks between signing and close In light of the announced transaction, both AkzoNobel and Axalta have agreed to suspend any ongoing or announced share buyback programs, effective immediately.
Over 1300 Chinese companies attend Medica 2025 in Germany

Xinhua) 09:38, November 19, 2025

People visit the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. The Medica 2025 is one of the largest and most influential trade fairs of medical devices. Expecting around 80,000 visitors from over 160 countries and regions, this year's event focused on medical technology and devices, digital health, lab and diagnostics, physio technology, and disposables. Among the participants across the world, the number of Chinese enterprises was the largest from a non-European country. According to the organizer, some 70 countries and regions took part in Medica 2025, which will run through Nov. 20. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

DUSSELDORF, Germany, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event.

The Medica 2025 is one of the largest and most influential trade fairs of medical devices. Expecting around 80,000 visitors from over 160 countries and regions, this year's event focused on medical technology and devices, digital health, lab and diagnostics, physio technology, and disposables.

Among the participants across the world, the number of Chinese enterprises was the largest from a non-European country.

"The number of Chinese exhibitors is growing and the quality of their products has improved," noted Xia Tian, deputy director of the International Cooperation Division of China Association for Medical Devices Industry.

As a veteran participant in the event, Xia told Xinhua that Chinese companies are gaining global recognition, with their products becoming more technologically sophisticated and expanding variety over the years.

Chinese exhibitors, both old faces and newcomers, can be found in almost every exhibition hall. This year, Chongqing Xishan Science &Technology Co., Ltd, occupied an exhibition area ten times larger than its debut last year. "We aim to provide good-quality products and services to a larger number of clients across the world," said He Qingyu, the marketing director of the company.

Liu Ping, general manager of Zhejiang Tiansong Medical Instrument Co., Ltd., recalled his experience at the medical exhibition over the past 20 years, saying that he is convinced that China's medical device industry is approaching the top-notch group in the world. Some companies have even become world leaders, he added.

According to the organizer, some 70 countries and regions took part in Medica 2025, which will run through Nov. 20.

Medical devices are displayed at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

People visit an exhibition area of Chinese firms at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

People visit the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

An automated pipetting machine is displayed at the exhibition area of Keyto at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

A medical optical equipment is displayed at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

A decorative robot is pictured at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

A visitor tries a rehabilitation equipment at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

People visit the China Pavilion at the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

A visitor takes photos at the main entrance of the Medica 2025 in Dusseldorf, Germany, Nov. 17, 2025. A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event. (Xinhua/Zhang Haofu)

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
On July 27, 2025, Islamic State-backed rebels from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) killed 38 worshippers at the Parish of Blessed Anuarite in Komanda village, Ituri Province, in northeastern Democratic Republic of Congo. | Screenshot: YouTube/ Firstpost

A brutal overnight attack on a Catholic-run maternity ward in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo has left roughly 20 people dead, including breastfeeding mothers and their infants, according to local authorities.

Officials have attributed the massacre to the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF), an Islamist-affiliated rebel faction linked to the Islamic State.

The assault unfolded late Friday in the village of Byambwe, located in North Kivu provinces Lubero territory, where ADF militants raided a medical center operated by the Little Sisters of the Presentation.

Local administrator Col. Alain Kiwewa told The Associated Press that armed men stormed through the area, killing patients as they rested in their hospital beds and igniting the facility. Women who were breastfeeding were brutally slaughtered and found with their throats slit in their hospital beds, Kiwewa reported.

He said that 17 victims had been confirmed, including 11 women and six men.

The same fighters reportedly struck several nearby villages during the night, though officials indicated that the full number of casualties in those areas remained unknown.

The maternity unit suffered the most devastation, with witnesses recounting that mothers and newborns were burned alive as flames consumed the building. Homes near the hospital were also looted before being set on fire.

With the facility destroyed, survivors are being treated outdoors while the Little Sisters of the Presentation wait for security officials to determine when it will be safe to resume operations, according to reports from the Catholic outlet Aleteia.

Fr. Giovanni Piumatti, an Italian missionary who ministered in the Diocese of Butembo-Beni for half a century, stated that 15 victims were murdered inside the clinic and five more were slain nearby. He said the attackers were equipped with heavy weapons and swept rapidly through Byambwe before fleeing into surrounding forests, torching houses and stealing medical supplies in the process.

Now living in Italy, Fr. Piumatti emphasized that such atrocities are tragically common in the region and rarely garner the attention they deserve.

The ADF, which emerged from Ugandan rebel movements in the late 1990s, has operated across eastern Congo for more than 20 years and formally aligned itself with the Islamic State in 2017. The organization has repeatedly targeted schools, churches, farms, and health facilities in a series of deadly raids.

According to data from the Armed Conflict Location and Event Data Project, ADF remains the most lethal threat to civilians in the DRC, accounting for more than 1,000 deaths in 2023 alone.

The group continued its attacks this year, with United Nations officials confirming that at least 52 people were killed in ADF assaults in August and nearly 40 worshippers, including women and children, died when militants attacked a Catholic church in Ituri province during a July vigil.

Community leaders and clergy warn that instability across North Kivu and Ituri has left ordinary civilians bearing the heaviest burden. The region is home to numerous armed groups, including the ADF and the M23 movement, which local authorities suspect receives support from neighboring Rwanda.
Home News Bill Maher blasts Left for having 'freaked out' over gender ideology: 'That's not scientific'

Comedian Bill Maher denounced the Left's embrace of gender ideology earlier this week and claimed many on his side of the political spectrum are not scientifically sound.



During a discussion with fellow comedian Patton Oswalt on Maher's "Club Random" podcast, which aired Monday, the two discussed the post-election soul-searching among Democrats, with Oswalt pushing back against the notion that Democrats have veered too far to the political fringe.

Patton Oswalt: If people think [AOC] is too far left, that shows another way that this country is broken right now.



Bill Maher: I dont think its necessarily broken in that way. It just shows how the country is not there.



Patton Oswalt: This country is not as mature as pic.twitter.com/p1H9Ijgs96  RedWave Press (@RedWave_Press) November 17, 2025

Oswalt suggested that the widespread notion that Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, D-N.Y., is "too far left" shows the country is "broken," adding that the U.S. is still reeling from having "freaked out" over the election of former President Barack Obama.

"This country is not as mature as it thinks it is," said Oswalt, who is outspokenly liberal and has been a vocal critic of President Donald Trump and likened his presidency to "an 18-wheeler full of monkeys and PCP that has crashed into a train full of diarrhea."

"We elected Obama, and clearly the country freaked out. We're still living in that freak-out. We are not as progressed and evolved and intelligent as we think we are, because we keep freaking out about this stuff," he said.

During their conversation, Maher pushed back against Oswalt's suggestion that the country is broken and that the political Right is the only side that has "freaked out" in recent years.

"I don't think it's necessarily broken in that way, but it just shows how the country is not there. That is not where the country is," he said.

Maher noted that "the Left freaked out about a lot of bulls."

When Oswalt pressed him, Maher rattled off that he believes the Left has "freaked out" over "gender, race, parenthood, schools, homelessness, crime, the border, education."

"We stopped being a scientific people," he added.

When Oswalt countered that "the Left certainly stayed scientific," Maher shot back: "No, they didn't!  Gender bulls that they went way too far with? That's not scientific."

Maher suggested that while children should be taught about sexual and gender identity minorities and the importance of respecting everyone, Democrats in California went too far.

"They started to teach that every baby is, I don't know, [let's not even put the gender on the] birth certificate," Maher said, referencing the 2019 California law that allowed non-binary markers on state-issued documents, which was the first of its kind in the U.S.

"Were we teaching that?" Oswalt asked, to which Maher replied: "Yes, we were. It was a law here in California. Don't put sex on the birth certificate."

Maher has been repeatedly outspoken about what he has characterized as the potentially catastrophic political consequences the Democratic Party faces for embracing transgender ideology, especially when it undermines parental rights.

"If you want to lose every election, just keep coming down on the side of parents coming in second in a 'who gets to decide what goes on with my kid' contest," Maher said earlier this year during a tense podcast with comedian Jon Lovett, who served as a speechwriter for Obama.

"That is something that's not going to go well with the average voter," he said at the time.

During his conversation with Oswalt, Maher also revealed he decided to stop doing live tours last year because of the increasing hostility he faces from both sides of the political aisle.

"I feel like it was a great choice because I don't want to be out there in this country in this political atmosphere," he said. "I could get shot by the Left or the Right. I mean, it's just  it's a good time to not be out there."
Home News Christian ethnic cleansing survivors given new homes, aim to spark revival of Armenian village

SVARANTS, Armenia  Several families displaced by ethnic cleansing in their ancient Christian homeland more than two years ago were given new homes and plots of land on Tuesday through a charitable initiative seeking to help revitalize a rural Armenian mountain village.

The Tufenkian Foundation and its partner organizations have cut the ribbon on a pilot refugee village in Svarants, completing the first 10 of 20 new homes in the upper reaches of Armenia's mountainous Tatev Municipality, in the southern Syunik province, which borders Iran and Azerbaijan.

The new homes, which come with adjoining plots of land and a barn, were built specifically to help families rebuild their lives around the agricultural and livestock work they were doing before Azerbaijan's 2023 invasion of Nagorno-Karabakh, a predominantly Armenian region known affectionately to Armenians as the Republic of Artsakh.

After a months-long military blockade, more than 120,000 ethnic Artsakh Armenians were forced from their homes in September 2023, and most have lived for two years throughout Armenia with what Artsakh leaders say has been inadequate social integration.

Although the Armenian government offers housing assistance programs, leaders of the Artsakh government-in-exile contend that those programs don't prioritize keeping Artsakh communities together to preserve their shared heritage.

But the Tufenkian Foundation's "Come to Svarants" initiative, in collaboration with various NGOs, government and international development agencies, aims to do just that. Families moving into these 10 homes all come from the Martakert region of Artsakh.

Tuesday's ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by village residents, local and provincial government leaders, along with partners from various international development agencies and nonprofits.

This neighborhood is a key component of our Syunik Village Revitalization Program and is one of the very few collective resettlement initiatives serving families displaced from Artsakh," Antranig Kasbarian, a trustee of the Tufenkian Foundation and its director of development, said. "Our work extends far beyond building homes  we are also investing in the long-term socio-economic and infrastructure development that will benefit the entire village.

In partnership with international development agencies, government agencies and nonprofits, the Syunik Revitalization Program aims to strengthen Armenias southern province that has faced much economic hardship through sustainable resettlement, socio-economic development and infrastructural improvements.

'A revival point'

The political leaders in the village of roughly 100 people, mostly over age 45, hope that the new project, which will also include infrastructure improvements benefiting all residents, will spark a "revival" of sorts for the town.

Svarants, like other municipalities in Syunik, is facing population declines as people search for employment and move toward Yerevan, the capital city and home to about a third of Armenia's 3 million population.

"The work that the Tufenkian Foundation has been implementing here is huge. We have huge plans for the future as well," declared Svarants Mayor Samvel Lalayan through a translator during a September meeting with community members and international delegates visiting Armenia with the United States-based nonprofit Save Armenia.

"It is going to be a revival point for this village. Tufenkian Foundation also intends to build a kindergarten that is going to be located in front of the ministry building in the village, [as well as a] playground for kids. I'm pretty sure that if we help each other, we are going to be in a position to thrive in this village."

The Tufenkian Foundation, launched in 1999 by entrepreneur James Tufenkian to address the social, economic, cultural and environmental challenges facing Armenia, believes that Syunik, in the southern region of Armenia, offers Artsakh Armenians "familiar surroundings" and a "shared cultural heritage."

The new initiative will enable displaced individuals to engage in the same types of breeding and agricultural work they were doing in Martakert before they fled their homes.

"I used to have my own farm," one Artaskh man said through a translator during the meeting in an old school building attended by The Christian Post. "I am engaged in exactly the same activity here."

The new neighborhood will feature 750-square-foot homes with ample space for a family of four to five members. Next to each house will be 10,000-square-foot fenced plots of land. Each home will also have access to a barn to store cattle.

Families will also receive agricultural support tailored to their experience and preferences. The goal is to help them become self-sufficient in a short period.

Work on the project began in July and was facilitated by an architect from Artsakh and two Artsakh-based construction firms.

After concrete was laid, construction of the homes started on Aug. 8, coincidentally the same day that the Armenian and Azerbaijani leaders signed a peace deal and memorandum of understanding at the White House. The homes seek to provide long-term comfort and stability for these families.

As the majority of the population in Svarants is engaged in cattle breeding, the community has hundreds of hectares of pastures that can hold thousands of sheep, Lalayan and local Tufenkian Foundation leader Edvin Grigoryan told delegates in September. The remaining land can be used to grow hay or other crops.

Other startup support will include selected livestock and high-quality seeds and saplings to support farming and food production, they said. The foundation will assist with home furnishings and offer small grant opportunities to support the development of business initiatives.

The Tufenkian Foundation had previously provided a tractor to help villagers collect grass for hay. The foundation procured a machine for about $25,000 and donated it to the village.

Additionally, a new drinking water pipeline for the community has been installed to replace an outdated one.

The village is currently without gas for heating, they said, but efforts are underway to secure heating through solar panels, with the support of a United Nations agency. This initiative would benefit the entire village, not just the new homes.

Another concern for the Svarants has been the potential relocation of its public school to a nearby village closer to Tatev, Mayor Lalayan said.

"Authorities want to relocate the school in this village to another place that will be closer to the Tatev community," Lalayan, who has been in office since 2021, said. "We want to keep a standalone school for this village. Here is where the Tufenkian Foundation is standing next to us to help us keep the school here."

"You may see that the area of the school is quite large. Once I have reached an agreement with the government, once we finish the construction of the village, they are going to help us with laying the asphalt. There is going to be an asphalt road that will lead to the center of the village. I am pretty sure that once the asphalt reaches the center of the village, gravel roads won't be a problem."

Employment concerns

Artsakh Armenians moving into the new homes were cautious when discussing their future outlook during the meeting with Save Armenia delegates in September.

Some voiced concern about the limited employment opportunities in the area, aside from agriculture and cattle breeding, for those who are physically unable to perform either. Residents discussed ideas for other job-creating economic outputs that could be generated in the region to support Svarants and other similarly situated villages.

Some were also concerned about the resources required to establish a cattle breeding business in unfamiliar surroundings. Others expressed concern about the village's aging population and its impact on the labor force.

"Employment is an issue that needs to be fixed," one man said in a meeting, according to the translator.

An Artsakh Armenian father of five who spoke with The Christian Post after the meeting said they have felt "very welcomed" and want the best future for their families.

"I said, 'What are the plans? Are we going to stay here? Are we going to leave this place?'" the man told CP. "We are not going anywhere. We are going to stay here."

"[I have a] very, very deep faith. I have five children; they are all underage," he added. "The only thing we are not comfortable with is the employment, no jobs. People are hard-working; it doesn't really matter what type of work."

Kasbarian stated there would be more "intensive conversations" about the next steps for how they will work together to address existing concerns after the village's opening.

Mayor Lalayan expressed hope that the revitalization of Svarants could give the village a competitive edge over surrounding towns and attract more people, as well as potential job opportunities.

"I am pretty sure that the previous generation who used to live here and relocated to other places, at some point, they are going to come back," the mayor said, according to the translator. "I am pretty sure that the locals and the displaced people are going to become very good friends. That will guarantee the revival of this village."
Home News Christian group sues Canadian city for 'irrational' cancellation of Sean Feucht event

A Christian worship organization has filed a lawsuit against Quebec City, alleging that the Canadian municipality wrongfully canceled an event featuring American worship leader and activist Sean Feucht at the last minute last summer.

Burn 24/7 Canada Worship Ministries alleges in a suit filed Nov. 14 in Quebec Superior Court that Quebec City violated "constitutional and quasi-constitutional guarantees" by terminating their event featuring Feucht at ExpoCite, a city-owned venue, according to the CBC.

Quebec City, which was among eight Canadian cities that canceled stops along Feucht's "Revive in 25" tour, terminated the organization's ExpoCite contract on July 23, the day before Feucht was slated to perform, citing reputational concerns given his political opinions.

An outspoken supporter of President Donald Trump who first rose to prominence in the U.S. for holding outdoor worship gatherings in protest of ongoing church lockdowns during the COVID-19 pandemic, Feucht drew condemnation from multiple Canadian leaders last summer for opposing abortion, critical race theory and LGBT ideology.

"The presence of a controversial artist was not mentioned in the contract between ExpoCite and the promoter of the concert scheduled to take place on its site this Friday," the city said in a statement at the time regarding the contract termination.

Olivier Seguin, an attorney who is representing Burn 24/7 Canada Worship Ministries, told the CBC that the ministry did not attempt to hide Feucht's participation in the event, and that the city never asked about him.

"The city didn't ask to mention who was going to perform. So nothing was hidden," he said. "There was no attempt to hide the presence of Feucht."

Unlike other municipalities that justified their decisions on public safety or security concerns, Quebec City relied on a broad contractual clause allowing it to take any action it "deems appropriate" if an activity risks harming its interests or reputation, the lawsuit states. The legal filing describes this justification as "so far-fetched and detached from the rule of law that it borders on irrational."

The ministry is seeking reimbursement of the $2,609.93 paid to rent the ExpoCite space, $5,000 in damages for the alleged violations of rights, as well as a court declaration confirming that the cancellation infringed liberties protected under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

The Quebec City mayor's office declined to comment on the litigation while it is before the courts, and a municipal spokesperson said he could not immediately confirm whether the city had been formally served with the claim, but added that no statement would be issued in any event, according to the CBC.

In September, the Ministerios Restauracion Church, which is a Spanish-speaking congregation in Montreal's Plateau-Mont-Royal borough, pleaded not guilty to an alleged municipal bylaw violation when they hosted Feucht after Montreal similarly canceled Feucht's tour stop.

The church, whose hosting of Feucht prompted protests and a $2,500 fine, alleged the city government abused its power and violated the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

Feucht warned in the wake of his tour cancellations that anti-Christian sentiment is growing in Canada, which drew international scrutiny when multiple pastors were jailed in the country for holding church services in defiance of government lockdown orders.

"Here's the hard truth: If I had shown up with purple hair and a dress, claiming to be a woman, the government wouldnt have said a word. But to publicly profess deeply held Christian beliefs is to be labeled an extremist  and to have a free worship event classified as a public safety risk," Feucht said at the time.
Home News Former congressman wants to launch Jewish religious charter school in Oklahoma

A former member of the U.S. Congress is eyeing the possibility of launching a virtual Jewish religious charter school in Oklahoma, months after a Catholic school's attempt to do so failed.

Peter Deutsch, a Democrat who represented Florida's 20th congressional district from 1993 to 2005, filed a letter of intent earlier this month with the Oklahoma Statewide Charter School Board, Oklahoma Voice reported last week.

Deutsch has helped launch six non-religious Hebrew-English charter schools in Florida, which are part of the Ben Gamla Jewish Charter School organization.

"Ben Gamla envisions Oklahoma students gaining a rigorous, values-based education that integrates general academic excellence with Jewish religious learning and ethical development," wrote Deutsch.

The formal application has not yet been submitted, with Deutsch explaining that the entity submitting the application shall be distinct from the organization overseeing schools in Florida.

Brett Farley, a member of the board of directors for St. Isidore of Seville Catholic Virtual School, which would have been the state's first religious charter school before it was struck down in court, was listed in Deutsch's letter as part of the founding team for the proposed Jewish school, reported Oklahoma Voice.

Americans United for Separation of Church and State, a secular legal organization that had been part of the litigation to stop the launching of St. Isidore, has expressed concern about the Ben Gamla proposal.

AU President and CEO Rachel Laser said in a statement on Tuesday that she believed "charter schools are public schools that must be secular and open to all students."

"Despite their loss earlier this year at the U.S. Supreme Court, religious extremists once again are trying to undermine our country's promise of church-state separation by forcing Oklahoma taxpayers to fund a religious public school," stated Laser.

"Not on our watch.  Americans United is prepared to do whatever it takes to safeguard public education and religious freedom for all Oklahomans."

In June 2023, the Oklahoma Statewide Virtual Charter School Board voted 3-2 to approve the creation of St. Isidore, which would be jointly overseen by the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Oklahoma City and the Catholic Diocese of Tulsa.

Republican Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond filed a complaint against the board in October 2023, and a coalition of liberal groups filed a lawsuit in July 2023.

In June 2024, the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruled 7-1 against St. Isidore, with the majority concluding that the Catholic entity's approval violated the state constitution.

Although the charter school board unanimously voted to rescind the contract for St. Isidore per an order from the highest state court, they also filed an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court.

In May, the U.S. Supreme Court issued a brief per curiam opinion ruling 4-4 to affirm the Oklahoma Supreme Court ruling against the establishment of St. Isidore.

Justice Amy Coney Barrett did not participate in the case, recusing herself due to reported personal ties to a professor who had been an early adviser to St. Isidore.
Home News ICE: Illegal suspect in hammer attack on woman jogging in Texas park overstayed visa Agency says Biden administration arrested, then released suspect

Federal authorities have placed an immigration detainer on a 17-year-old Mexican national accused of savagely attacking a woman with a hammer while she jogged in a Texas park.

The incident unfolded on Nov. 13 at approximately 5 p.m., when police in Plano, a suburb of Dallas, say they responded to reports of an assault in the 2300 block of Shiloh Road, according to a Plano Police Department news release. The female victim was jogging in Bob Woodruff Park when she was ambushed by a male assailant who struck her repeatedly with a hammer before fleeing the scene.

Police say the attacker tried to duct tape the woman, but she was able to fight him off.

Paramedics transported the victim to a nearby hospital, where she was treated for non-life-threatening injuries.

In an initial update on Nov. 14, the Plano Police Department identified the suspect as Sergio Noe De Nova Duarte, who had been living in Plano, and charged him with aggravated kidnapping bodily injury, a first-degree felony. He was booked into the Collin County jail.

By Nov. 17, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) had lodged an arrest detainer against Duarte, preventing his release back into the community pending federal proceedings. ICE officials described Duarte as an "illegal alien from Mexico" who had been released into the U.S. by the Biden administration in 2024 despite a prior criminal history.

According to an ICE statement, Duarte entered the U.S. legally on a B2 tourist visa in 2016 but overstayed the required departure date of Sept. 17, 2016. His criminal record dates back to 2024, when he was arrested for burglary and larceny. Following that arrest, ICE took him into custody, only for the Biden administration to release him with a notice to appear before an immigration judge in 2026, the agency said.

The hammer attack prompted the Plano Police Department to initially pursue aggravated assault charges, but the investigation quickly uncovered evidence of attempted kidnapping, leading to the upgraded felony count. "The suspect in this incident has been identified and is in custody with pending charges," the police department noted in its assault release. "Due to the arrest of the suspect, there are no public safety concerns. This incident is under investigation by the CAPers Unit."

ICE spokeswoman Assistant Secretary Tricia McLaughlin accused the Biden administration of being at least partly culpable in the attack.

This criminal illegal alien should have never been loose in our communities to attack this woman jogging in a park with a hammer, said McLaughlin. Following this illegal aliens arrest in 2024, the Biden administration released this criminal illegal alien back into our communities. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, ICE lodged an arrest detainer to ensure this criminal illegal alien is never able to prey on innocent women in our country again.
Home News Judge orders Texas schools to remove Ten Commandments displays

A federal judge behind a 2014 ruling that deemed Texas ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional has ordered the removal of Ten Commandments posters in seven school districts.

U.S. District Judge Orlando L. Garcia on Tuesday issued a preliminary injunction mandating the removal of Ten Commandments posters from classrooms in Fort Worth, Arlington, McKinney, Frisco, Azle, Rockwall and Mansfield Independent School Districts, which were named in a lawsuit filed by multifaith and nonreligious families in September.

Attorneys with the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), Americans United for Separation of Church and State, and Freedom From Religion Foundation filed the suit on behalf of 15 families whose children attend schools in the affected districts.

Senate Bill 10 (SB 10), signed into law by Gov. Greg Abbott in June, required every public school classroom in Texas to prominently display a 16-by-20-inch poster or framed copy of the Ten Commandments in a specific English translation. Proponents hailed the measure as a way to honor the state's "legal and moral heritage," but critics swiftly challenged it, arguing it promotes Christianity at the expense of other faiths and nonbelievers.

Garcia, who was appointed in 1994 by President Bill Clinton, ruled that the mandated displays "violate the Establishment Clause" of the First Amendment, which prohibits government endorsement of religion. Garcia cited the law's broad reach, writing, It is impractical, if not impossible, to prevent Plaintiffs from being subjected to unwelcome religious displays without enjoining Defendants from enforcing SB 10 across their districts.

The districts must remove the posters by Dec. 1 and submit evidence of compliance by Dec. 9.

The judges order marks the second major federal injunction against SB 10. In August, U.S. District Judge Fred Biery deemed the law "plainly unconstitutional," leading to an order blocking its enforcement in 11 other districts, including Plano ISD. Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton has appealed that ruling in Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights ISD and is expected to challenge Tuesday's decision as well.

The lawsuit's plaintiffs, including Jewish, Muslim and nonreligious families, contended that the posters would ostracize minority students and coerce them into religious observance.

One plaintiff, Lenee Bien-Willner, a Jewish mother whose children are among the few Jewish students at their schools, expressed profound relief. I am relieved that as a result of today's ruling, my children ... will no longer be continually subjected to religious displays," she said in a statement shared by ACLU. "The government has no business interfering with parental decisions about matters of faith.

Advocacy groups behind the suit celebrated the ruling and urged all Texas districts  even those not named in the litigation  to voluntarily remove the displays, stressing that constitutional obligations outweigh state law.

Our schools are for education, not evangelization, said Chloe Kempf, staff attorney for the ACLU of Texas. This ruling protects thousands of Texas students from ostracization, bullying, and state-mandated religious coercion. Every school district in Texas is now on notice that implementing SB 10 violates their students constitutional rights.

Garcia made national headlines in 2014 after ruling Texas ban on same-sex marriage unconstitutional. In his opinion, the judge wrote that the states ban on same-sex marriage violates plaintiffs equal protection and due process rights under the Fourteenth Amendment to the United States Constitution.

The day for finality and legal certainty in the long and difficult journey for equality is closer than ever before, he added.

Less than a year later, the U.S. Supreme Courts Obergefell v. Hodgesdecision overturned state bans on same-sex marriage.
Home News Mom pressured to take abortion drugs says a pregnancy center saved her baby's life

A mother who felt pressured by her husband to take the abortion pill at nine weeks into her pregnancy says a Las Vegas pregnancy center helped save her child's life after she experienced regret.

During a press call on Monday, nurse Jessica Williams said she was preparing to divorce her husband in 2022 during a period she described as "one of the hardest seasons of [her] life." While she and her husband were separated, Williams met another man and became pregnant with his child. Williams said her husband demanded that she have an abortion so they could attempt to reconcile their marriage.

"The pressure, confusion and emotional turmoil were overwhelming," Williams recalled during the call with reporters hosted by the pro-life research organization Charlotte Lozier Institute to highlight its 2025 "National Pregnancy Center Report."

"In my moments of fear, confusion, and pressure from my husband, I ordered the abortion pills online. No doctor, no ultrasound, no medical oversight."

She took the first drug, mifepristone, as her husband watched to make sure that she took it. "Almost immediately, I felt a warm sensation over my womb that would come and go. A sensation that no medical provider has ever been able to explain," Williams said. "It felt like my baby was being protected." As a nurse, the reality of what she had done hit her hard, and she began "spiraling" as she remembered how mifepristone works by blocking progesterone, a hormone needed to sustain the pregnancy.

"I realized that if my baby was still alive, taking the second pill, the misoprostol, would cause me to push out my living baby, who would experience its last breaths and heartbeat outside of the womb in the toilet," Williams stated.

"I couldn't do it. I immediately began searching for help, praying there was a way to undo what I had done," she continued.

A Google search directed her to First Choice Pregnancy Services, where she confirmed that her baby was still alive through a free ultrasound. It was through the pregnancy center that Williams underwent the abortion pill reversal treatment, which she credits with saving her baby's life.

The 2025 National Pregnancy Center Report found that 2,775 pregnancy centers nationwide had helped women like Williams by providing over $452 million worth of medical care and other supportive services in 2024. That same year, 29% of pregnancy centers (808) offered the Abortion Pill Reversal treatment, and 77% (2,147) provided post-abortion support.

CLI conducted the study in partnership with Care Net, Heartbeat International, National Institute of Family and Life Advocates and Focus on the Family Option Ultrasound Program.

"But their support didn't end with the reversal  it extended far beyond that moment," Williams said about the Las Vegas pregnancy center. "They provided diapers, material support, emotional and spiritual support groups, parenting resources, community connections, and just so much practical help in general."

"It was a level of compassion that carried me through my entire pregnancy," she added.

According to Williams, all she had to do to obtain the abortion drugs was pull up an application and complete a questionnaire, and she received a package containing mifepristone and misoprostol, the two drugs in the chemical abortion pill regimen.

"[First Choice Pregnancy Services] greeted me gently, and they were nonjudgmental," Williams said about her experience. "They provided a safe, calm space for me, emotionally and spiritually."

"A woman there connected with me, related to my story, and understood the pressure and fear I had been under," she added. "They gave me information and education without pushing me in any direction."

Williams's daughter, Kaylee, is 3 years old now and didn't suffer any side effects due to the mifepristone or the abortion pill reversal process, the mother said.

Even though three years have gone by since she sought help from First Choice, the mother has maintained a relationship with the staff.

"My daughter is happy, healthy and thriving because of organizations like First Choice that believe women need and deserve real help, real solutions and real hope," she said.

In addition to Williams, the press call featured Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America President Marjorie Dannenfelser, CLI Executive Director Karen Czarnecki and Rep. Michelle Fischbach, R-Minn.

Dannenfelser stressed that pregnancy resource centers are the "beating heart of the pro-life movement." She explained that their work has always been "vital," even before the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade.

A CLI study published in 2023 found that 60% of women who reported they had a history of abortion said that they would have preferred to have given birth if they had more emotional support or financial security.

"When we have the courage to ask the questions of real women in the real world, this is what we find over and over and over again," Dannenfelser asserted, adding that pregnancy centers address the "roots" of their clients' problems when it comes to addiction, homelessness, abuse and other issues.

"And that is what love is, and this is certainly not what Planned Parenthood and big abortion have to offer these women," the pro-life leader asserted.

"No matter how nuanced, difficult, or painful the moment she is going through, the answer that this movement has is to make sure she gets a pill home alone, or that her boyfriend or abusive husband gets a pill and slips it into her drink," she added.
Home News Pope Leo says he opposes open borders, blasts Trump's deportation of illegal immigrants

Pope Leo XIV is defending the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops message opposing what he characterized as the extremely disrespectful treatment of illegal immigrants being deported by the Trump administration. His comments come as border czar Tom Homan continues to defend the federal governments actions and reiterate earlier allegations of hypocrisy by the Catholic Church.

In response to reporters seeking his comment on the USCCBs Special Message on immigration Tuesday, the pontiff said, We have to look for ways of treating people humanely, treating people with the dignity that they have.

If people are in the United States illegally, there are ways to treat that. There are courts; theres a system of justice. I think there are a lot of problems in the system. No one has said that the United States should have open borders. I think every country has a right to determine who and how and when people enter, he stressed.

At the same time, Leo shared his reservations about what he called the extremely disrespectful treatment of illegal immigrants who are living good lives and many of them for 10, 15, 20 years in the U.S.

The message at the center of Leo's comments, issued at the USCCBs Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, Maryland, last week, condemned what the bishops referred to as a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement. The bishops overwhelmingly approved the message, with 216 votes in favor of it, five against, and three abstentions.

The statement reads in part: We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools.

The bishops also described themselves as grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school and when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good," they continued. "Without such process, immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Safe and legal pathways serve as an antidote to such risks.

The message concluded with the bishops expressing opposition to the indiscriminate mass deportation of people and a prayer for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, whether directed at immigrants or law enforcement.

While the bishops message was received favorably by the pontiff, Tom Homan, who serves as President Donald Trumps border czar, had a different take in remarks given to the press outside the White House last Friday, where he declared: The Catholic Church is wrong.

Identifying himself as a lifelong Catholic, Homan maintained that the Catholic bishops need to spend time fixing the Catholic Church rather than advocating against the Trump administrations immigration policies. Homan also echoed his previous analysis, accusing the Catholic Church of hypocrisy in light of the Vaticans immigration policies, noting that the penalties for entering their facilities are much worse than ours.

A secure border saves lives. I wish the Catholic Church would understand that, he said. We have a right to secure borders like they have the right to secure their facilities.

Homan warned that embracing the immigration policy proposed by the Catholic bishops would have negative consequences for national security: According to them, the message we should send to the whole world is that if you cross the border illegally, which is a crime, dont worry about it. If you get ordered removed by a federal judge, thats due process, dont worry about it because there shouldnt be mass deportations.

Homan defended Immigration and Customs Enforcement for sending a different message to the whole world, specifically, Dont give your life savings to come to the country because youre not going to be released.

The USCCBs message on immigration and the pope's comments on it do not constitute the first example of high-ranking Catholic Church officials speaking out about the Trump administrations immigration policies.

In addition to Pope Francis condemnation of mass deportations earlier this year, which prompted Homan to bring up the wall around the Vatican, several Catholic bishops in the U.S. have excused illegal immigrants from the obligation to attend Sunday mass due to concerns that they will be deported.
Home News Reformed Baptist Pastor Samuel Renihan resigns after confessing adultery

Prominent Reformed Baptist Pastor Samuel D. Renihan has resigned as the leader of Trinity Reformed Baptist Church in La Mirada, California, after confessing to engaging in an adulterous relationship.

I have sinned in an exceedingly wicked way. This past week it was discovered that I have committed adultery. The Lord, whose Spirit yearns jealously for his people (James 4:5), the Lord, who is an avenger in these things (1 Thess. 4:6), exposed my sin. To my great shame, I did not bring it to light, Renihan wrote on his blog Petty France on Monday.

Renihan, whose father is prominent Reformed Baptist Pastor James Renihan, is well-known in the Reformed Baptist community and has authored several books, including The Mystery of Christ and His Covenant.

Trinity Reformed Baptist Church did not immediately respond to a request for comment from The Christian Post on Wednesday.

In his public confession, Renihan used multiple Scriptures to define his stiff-necked sin and said he was caught in arrogance.

As a minister, I should have set an example in holiness, but by my unholiness I have made myself unfruitful and ineffective (2 Pet. 1:8), a warning, an example never to be imitated (1 Tim 5:20), he declared. Such clear warnings should have deterred me from sin in the first place, but I was the greatest of fools.

Though he did not share many specifics about his sin, Renihan said he read a letter of confession to my church, resigned from the office of pastor, and submitted myself to the judgment and discipline of the church.

I am deeply ashamed of my sin. All sin deserves damnation, but some sins are far worse than others, and mine is exceedingly wicked. The only way that I can honor and glorify God, and the only way that I can do anything to help those whom I have hurt is through the grace of repentance, he added. The Scriptures say, By steadfast love and faithfulness iniquity is atoned for, and by the fear of the LORD one turns away from evil (Prov. 16:6). I do fear the LORD, and by his grace and help I will show steadfast love and faithfulness to God, to my wife, and to Christs church.

Renihan, who has written for organizations such as Ligonier Ministries, said he also made confessions of his sin to various institutions and organizations he was affiliated with so their good names may not be sullied by my sin. 

I have also unpublished my self-published theological works, he added. I thank God that my wife has graciously forgiven me. I have humbled myself before God as a wicked sinner, praying that he would lift me up. And now I humble myself before a broader audience, asking only that you forgive me my hypocrisy and give glory to the Good Shepherd who will never leave or forsake his flock. By his grace, may my repentance be as notorious as my sin.

The pastors confession has resonated in the Reformed Baptist community and sparked a number of public comments online, including from fellow Reformed Baptist Pastor Bill Rhetts, who called the news heart-wrenching in a statement on X Tuesday.

This is heart-wrenching. I wept greatly while reading it. Frankly, I had to pause for a while before finishing it, Rhetts wrote. I knew Samuel Renihan from our So. Calif. Assoc. of Reformed Baptists Churches (SCARBC). Though he was young enough to be my Son, I considered myself a Junior around him, and I could learn from the intellect THE LORD had given him.

Despite his disappointment, Rhetts encouraged Christians to speak more openly about adultery and said Renihans public confession was done right.

As sinful as this was. I would never say, How could he do that? Or I would never do that! I understand how powerful the attraction of a woman can be. I understand the authoritative Word that tells me to take heed lest I fall, Rhett wrote. If there ever was a postmodern public confession of sin and profession of repentance that was done right, this is it. Let us continue to pray for Renihan, his wife, family, and church. Only by the grace of God so go, the sinner I am.
Home News UN rapporteur on sexual violence denies Hamas raped women during Oct. 7 attacks

The Israeli ambassador to the United Nations has called on the international body to remove Reem Alsalem from her position as U.N. special rapporteur on violence against women and girls after she denied evidence that Hamas weaponized sexual violence against Israelis during its terrorist attacks two years ago.

Danny Danon, the Israeli ambassador to the U.N., declared in a Saturday statement on social media that [a]ny U.N. representative who denies Hamas rape must be removed from their post. Period.

This is a moral disgrace, an insult to the victims and their families, and a violation of every basic international standard. Israel will not allow Hamas' horrific crimes to be whitewashed, Danon continued.

Following Hamas Oct. 7 massacre that resulted in the slaughter of at least 1,200 people  including Americans  and the abduction of over 240 others, survivors of the attack and former hostages have shared stories about the sexual assaults and rapes the terror group committed against women.

The Israeli ambassador also addressed Antonio Guterres in his statement on Saturday, warning the U.N. secretary general that silence is complicity.

The U.N. did not respond to The Christian Posts request for comment.

Alsalems comment that sparked outrage stems from an X post last Friday in which the U.N. special rapporteur asserted: No Palestinian applauded rape in Gaza. No independent investigation found that rape took place on the 7th of October.

Alsalem made that assertion in response to an X user who commented on a separate X post in which she had responded to reports of alleged abuse of Palestinian detainees at the Sde Teiman detention facility. The post included a video of several people applauding Israeli soldiers during a court appearance.

The X user pushed back against Alsalems claim that [i]mpunity for crimes committed against Palestinians is sanctioned by State and society.

I do not think you would take a few Gazans applauding rape as indicating that Gaza was incapable of delivering fairness, the user wrote.

In a follow-up post on Saturday, Alsalem claimed that the statement she made in response to the X user had been deliberately misrepresented.

The U.N. special rapporteur then cited an Oct. 30 podcast interview with the Substack publication Savage Minds, claiming that she had spoken at length on the reported sexual violence, including rape on and since 7 October.

During the interview, the Savage Minds podcast host, Julian Vigo, and Alsalem discussed the U.N. report issued in March 2024 by the special representative of the secretary-general on sexual violence in conflict.

The report is based on the findings of U.N. special representative Pramila Patten during a trip to Israel that lasted from Jan. 29, 2024, through Feb. 14, 2024, which found reasonable grounds to believe that conflict-related sexual violence occurred during the Oct. 7 attacks.

Alsalem agreed with Vigos criticisms of the report, such as the short amount of time that the U.N. team had to collect information, as well as their limited access to forensic information and survivors of sexual violence.

I totally agree with you that the media, certain organizations, and the world basically fell into the trap that Israel set up, which is to project that there was barbaric sexual violence being committed by these barbarian Palestinian men, Alsalem said during the interview.

And it was spun around and disseminated and very much used in order to then justify the genocide, she argued.

The U.N. report noted that, despite the limitations, investigators found that several fully naked or partially naked bodies from the waist down were recovered across various locations of the Oct. 7 attacks. The bodies, which mainly consisted of women, were recovered with their hands tied and showed signs of having been shot multiple times, often in the head.

The Dinah Project, a legal research initiative, published a report earlier this year to ensure that the tactical use of sexual violence by Hamas as a weapon of war receives the international condemnation and response it demands.

The report includes at least 17 eyewitness accounts of multiple incidents of sexual assault, as well as testimonies from 15 former hostages and 27 first responders. In addition to personal testimonies, the report highlighted the large number of images and videos of the atrocities that occurred during the Hamas-led terrorist attacks, with numerous items depicting sexual humiliation and assault.

These include the following: forced partial or full nudity, sometimes accompanied by public display; sexual humiliation by various acts of violence (e.g. kicking, jumping over, stomping) directed at the genitalia or the buttocks; possible mutilation of the genitalia, the report stated.
Home Opinion What my Trump prophecy taught me about humility

Were living in a leadership crisis thats bigger than politics. Its a heart issue. Whether in Washington, the Church, or the marketplace, pride has become the disease of the day. Leaders would rather double down than humble down. And when we start protecting our reputation more than people, weve already lost our way.

I know because Ive been there. I teach people to contend in storms. Then I missed a public prophecy and wanted to contend for my reputation. But the Lord said a single word that changed how I lead.

In 2020, I prophesied that Donald Trump would serve another term as president. Id been accurate about four presidents in a row, so honestly, it didnt feel risky. When I preached the message, I spoke as if he would win and serve a consecutive term. Later, when I listened back, I realized I never said those words outright  but in my heart, thats exactly what I meant.

When he didnt win, 10,000 people unfollowed me on social media in a week. Thats not persecution, I broke trust with people who believed in me. My friends tried to defend me; some said I was right, just early. But I didnt need defenders; I needed to repent.

When God said repent instead of contend

After the election, I asked the Lord in distress, What should I do? Everything in me wanted to hear, Contend! Thats what I teach, and thats what my family and leadership team wanted me to do. After all, Paul exhorted Timothy to fight the good fight by holding fast to the prophecies spoken over him (1 Timothy 1:18). Ive preached for decades that we must contend with the words God gives us until they come to pass.

But the word I heard was unmistakable: Repent.

Let me be clear, I didnt hear thunder or see lightning. I simply felt His presence, and that single word carried a holy conviction that cut deeper than public criticism ever could.

Accountability in leadership isnt about proving you were right; its about stewarding what youve been entrusted with. God wasnt testing my prophetic accuracy; he was testing my humility. When I owned my mistake, Heaven didnt demote me, it delivered me.

Humility is the way forward

Sometimes God lets us live our own sermons so that our words carry weight beyond theory. Ive spent years teaching prophets to apologize when they miss it, to stay humble, to remember that authority flows from authenticity. Then God gave me the chance to walk it out.

So, I repented publicly, and yes, it made even more people mad. Some thought Id betrayed the prophetic movement, that my apology weakened our voice. Others assumed Id caved to pressure. But repentance wasnt compromise  it was obedience. I wasnt bowing to man; I was bowing before the Lord.

The truth is that humility offends pride. When you choose the low road, it exposes the high horses weve been riding on. But at the end of the day, I dont answer to crowds; I answer to Christ.

Ive learned that humility isnt weakness, its strength under surrender.

Bold faith and wild humility together reveal the beauty of God. Bold faith without humility stinks. Humility without boldness stalls. We need both  the courage to speak and humility to bow.

Were in the midst of a humility revival, not one marked by miracles on stage, but by leaders on their knees. Imagine what could happen in our homes, churches, and companies if leaders were willing to say, We missed it. Weve let pride lead, but were choosing a better way forward. That kind of humility would restore more faith in leadership than any achievement ever could.

Kingdom over empire

People often ask me what success looks like after a failure. My answer: clean hands and a pure heart. Psalms 24:3-4 says, Who may ascend the hill of the Lord?  He who has clean hands and a pure heart. In Gods Kingdom, success isnt empire building; its obedience, even when obedience dismantles what weve spent years constructing.

God cares more about building people than building platforms. We measure success by whether we end up in Pharaohs palace; He measures it by whether were faithful in prison. We think visibility is victory; God calls purity victory.

The Kingdom of God advances through surrendered ones. Its built on repentance and love, not leverage. So, wherever you lead  your home, your business, or your church  stand humble. Stay teachable. And watch what God will do through your yes.
Americas state CIOs are navigating a role unlike any other, divided into equal parts strategist, reformer, and public servant. Theyre charged with modernizing aging systems, managing cybersecurity risks, adopting emerging technologies, and ensuring citizens can access services efficiently, all under political pressure and within short tenures. According to the National Association of State Chief Information Officers (NASCIO), the average time in office of a state CIO is around two years.

Each of the three leaders profiled here brings a different background and philosophy to the challenge. In Nevada, former Marine Timothy Galluzi applies mission-first discipline to digital government. In Illinois, career insider Brandon Ragle turns his agency into a modern enterprise. And in Indiana, private-sector veteran Warren Lenard is shaking up bureaucracy with a dose of corporate pragmatism.

Together, they reveal three distinct paths to the same goal: building efficient, accountable, and citizen-centered government through technology.
Changes to laws on charities transferring objects will come into force this month, following previous delays, with some national museums and galleries exempted.

Implementation of ex gratia payment rule changes, which form the final two sections of the Charities Act 2022 yet to be introduced, was delayed after concerns were raised by the previous Conservative government.

Former charities minister Lord Kamall was concerned that the changes would remove oversight of trustees decisions to restitute an object such as the return of the Benin bronzes to Nigeria.

Then at the start of last year, former arts and heritage minister Lord Parkinson wrote to former Charity Commission chair Orlando Fraser to confirm the governments plans to exclude overseas transfers of property from the laws, meaning charities would still need to seek approval.

It also revealed plans to exclude national museums and galleries from the provisions, meaning they would continue to be bound by their governing documents for transfers of all items.

After a further delay following the general election, the Labour government has now laid commencement regulations , confirming the exclusion of some charities such as the British Museum and Tate Gallery.

This will mean that certain museums and galleries and other institutions will continue to face the same restrictions on disposal of valuable items in their collections set in statute.

A spokesperson for the Charity Commission said: The commission is prepared for the changes when they come into force next week and we will be publishing updated guidance to help trustees understand them.

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Umbrella body NCVO has responded after the Home Office announced that there will be a greater role for voluntary organisations as part of its plans to reform the UKs asylum system.

On Monday, the department published an asylum and returns policy paper that sets out how it will ensure that the UK is no longer an outlier that draws flows of migrants across Europe.

The paper says the government will shift to community sponsorship as the main framework for refugee resettlement, with greater local and voluntary sector involvement.

The sponsorship model will give greater say to communities and support refugees as they settle, become self-sufficient, and contribute to their local areas.

To do this, the government will reform refugee sponsorship to give voluntary and community sector organisations a greater role in resettlement through named sponsorship, within caps set by government.

Commenting on the paper, NCVO chief influencing officer Leigh Brimicombe told Civil Society: Charities have the lived experience, deep understanding and community connections needed to be a vital partner in delivery.

These proposals place voluntary organisations at the centre of making the system work, and a shift of this scale has real implications for capacity, safeguarding and funding that government must consider.

Following this announcement, we need to see a genuine partnership with civil society, in line with the principles of the Civil Society Covenant, so that the policy is developed with organisations, not for them.

Thats essential to ensure the approach meets the needs of voluntary organisations and the communities its designed to support, and to ensure governments plans can be delivered effectively.

UKs asylum system can no longer cope

The publication of the paper follows over 300 charities and voluntary organisations, including NCVO, saying they would refuse to comply with home secretary Shabana Mahmoods plans to introduce a volunteering test for migrants applying for indefinite leave to remain in the UK.

The paper does not mention a volunteering test, but Civil Society understands that plans remain for a consultation on the contribution-based settlement model, of which the test may form a part.

In the foreword to the paper, prime minister Keir Starmer said the UKs asylum system can no longer cope with an increasingly volatile and insecure world, with increased conflict leading to a significant increase in the movement of people across the globe.

Starmer said the number of asylum seekers crossing the English Channel by boat and remaining in the UK places a severe strain on the countrys asylum system and wider social contract.

The UK is a decent, compassionate, tolerant country that celebrates diversity and wants those values reflected in its institutions  that hasnt changed, he said.

But demonstrating control at our borders isnt just an essential task of government. Its also vital for maintaining confidence in those values as we navigate our changing world. This statement sets out our plan to achieve that.

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Purdue Pharma LP won court approval to exit bankruptcy, capping six years of legal wrangling over a multibillion-dollar settlement and liability releases for the opioid manufacturers Sackler family owners.

Judge Sean H. Lane said he will sign off on Purdues Chapter 11 plan during a hearing Friday in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of New York. The plan contemplates an estimated $7.4 billion in payments to address nationwide harm caused by the mass marketing and production of addictive painkillers.

The judge will issue his full, detailed ruling in court this week.

The plan was negotiated for more than a year following the U.S. Supreme Courts June 2024 decision overturning a prior iteration that provided a blanket legal liability shield in favor of the Sackler family for paying up to $6 billion in settlement contributions.

That blockbuster ruling, which barred releases for non-bankrupt third parties that dont have creditor consent in all Chapter 11 cases, has reshaped how large corporate bankruptcy plans are formulated.

Under the revised deal, the Sacklers will contribute approximately $6.5 billion in settlement installments over 15 years, subject to certain reserves. In accordance with the Supreme Courts holdings, creditors have been given the opportunity to opt out of releasing claims against the Sackler family in exchange for a smaller settlement distribution.

Settlement funds will largely be used to enhance nationwide opioid abatement efforts, while roughly $850 million will be used to compensate individuals and families with addiction-related claims.

Additionally, Purdue will transfer its business assets to a public benefit company called Knoa Pharma that will develop and distribute opioid overdose reversal and addiction treatment medications.

Over 99% of voting creditors supported the updated settlement plan, spanning all U.S. states and territories, along with groups of local government entities, hospitals and medical professionals, schools, tribes, and individuals with personal injury claims.

The only objections litigated over the course of a three-day trial were those raised by a small number of individuals representing themselves, many of whom raised concerns over how much relief is being afforded to the Sacklers.

At trial, Lane repeatedly explained that the revised plan doesnt force anyone to settle claims against Purdues owners and that bankruptcy proceedings dont relieve any parties of criminal liability.

Purdue attorney Marshall Huebner of the Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP, in closing arguments Friday, acknowledged that the plan could never fully address the pain that so many people have suffered from opioid addiction and overdose, but said its the best outcome available to close the overly long chapter on this situation and let the money flow.

No party is buying immunity in these proceedings and no party is buying their own form of justice, he added.

Purdue filed for bankruptcy in 2019 facing more than 2,600 opioid addiction lawsuits related to its production and sale of OxyContin, which has been blamed for fueling a multi-decade crisis in the US. The bankruptcy proceedings elicited more than $40 trillion in creditor claims against the company.

The company in 2020 pleaded guilty to federal conspiracy and fraud charges related to its business practices.

The case is Purdue Pharma LP, Bankr. S.D.N.Y., No. 19-23649, hearing 11/14/25.

Top photo: Bottles of Purdue Pharma L.P. OxyContin medication in 2016. Photographer: George Frey/Bloomberg.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
Moet Hennessy won a lawsuit against its former finance chief after LVMHs drinks unit accused him of violating a non-disclosure agreement that he signed last year as part of his settlement when he was dismissed.

The Paris employment tribunal ordered Mark Stead to pay Moet Hennessy 100,000 ($116,000) on Wednesday for failing to respect the NDA, a court official said by phone. He was also ordered to pay 1,500 to cover Moet Hennessys legal fees. The judges full reasons for their decision wont be available for several weeks.

The tribunal also threw out an unfair dismissal counter-claim brought by Stead that was seeking 4 million as well as a bid to scrap the settlement agreement. He argued that the NDA prevented him from blowing the whistle on sexual harassment allegations.

Fired CFO in 4 Million Fight With Moet Hennessy Over NDA

Stead, the former chief financial officer of the drinks unit of LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE signed this NDA in July 2024 as part of a settlement agreed with the division following his dismissal for alleged expense abuses. The deal gave him severance but bound him to strict confidentiality and non-disparagement clauses.

The company argued at a hearing earlier this year Stead fed information to news outlet La Lettre as part of a report about how Moet Hennessy handled the separate complaint filed by his partner, who was also a colleague and former senior manager.

Eric Charlery, a lawyer for Stead, declined to comment. A representative for Moet Hennessy also declined to comment.

Top photo: Moet & Chandon Champagne and Hennessy on display Photographer: Zoltan LeClerc/Getty Images.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.
For one claims professional who is working in Jamaica, it is clear that the scale of the damage left in the wake of Hurricane Melissa will have a long-lasting, and far-reaching impact for businesses and people.

But the biggest concern for Roland Riviere, who has been in the claims field for more than four decades, is that the island-nations tourism business was hit hard.

Tourism is a major part of the countrys economy. The Jamaica Ministry of Tourism reports that the country earned $4.3 billion from the industry in 2024, more than 10% of its GDP, with roughly 4.3 million annual visitors. The sector employs 175,000 people and creates 354,000 indirect jobs.

Its the obvious hotel resorts have been impacted, said Riviere, senior executive general adjuster in the Latin America and Caribbean hub office of Sedgwick.

Related: Lack of Hurricanes Is Leading to Lack of Experience for Adjusters

He was speaking recently to Claims Journal on a shaky connection from Kingston, where internet, power and other services are still sporadic weeks after the storm. He is part of a team of more than two dozen adjusters, building consultants, engineers and others there surveying damage and helping to process claims.

The team is getting increasingly more access to damaged properties, and what hes seeing is devastation. He described some of properties he has surveyed in the affected areas as being flattened.

A lot of homes are totally destroyed, he said. We have the concept of constructive total losswhen something costs more to repair than what its worththese are actual total losses; theres nothing left to that you could repair. In the areas where it hit, its prevalent.

Riviere is seeing large commercial properties that suffered losses, including distribution centers, myriad stand-alone retail stores and malls spanning from small strip centers to large retail outlets.

He is also seeing the impact of losing those businesses on people who need goods and services, as well as people who work in the places that were damaged or destroyed.

All these things have their own impact on the economy, because everything is slowed down, he said.

Category 5

The Category 5 hurricane made landfall in Jamaica on Oct. 28, the strongest recorded storm to directly hit the country, and the first major hurricane to hit Jamaica since 1988. The catastrophe affected millions across Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, and the Dominican Republic, resulting in 76 deaths and displacing more than 770,000 people.

Melissa caused catastrophic damage to Jamaica, particularly in the western and southern coastal regions. The eyewall hit the south coast with winds estimated at roughly 125 mph, ripping roofs off buildings, breaking countless power lines and decimating crops and infrastructure. Most (70%-plus) electricity customers in Jamaica were left without power, and many areas remained without power for an extended time.

Insured losses from the storms impact on Jamaica are expected to range between $2.2 billion and $4.2 billion, according to estimates from data analytics firm Verisk. Catastrophe modeler KCC estimates privately insured losses from Melissa will reach $2.4 billion. That estimate includes insured damages to residential, commercial and industrial properties in Jamaica and Cuba.

Jamaicas $150 million cat bond was triggered by the black swan event. According to a Bloomberg report, in addition to the $150 million it will get from its cat bond, it can tap $300 million in contingent credit from the Inter-American Development Bank and draw a $92 million payout from a parametric insurance program.

Gallagher Re has said it expects Melissa to be a billion-dollar-plus event for reinsurers.

The uncertainty around the potential industry impact and limited cat model performance in the Caribbean makes this a challenging event to estimate without seeing some hard data, said Steve Bowen, chief science officer at Gallagher Re. Our current expectation remains low single digit billion insured loss, including payouts from the Jamaican cat bond and parametric TC policy from CCRIF. The economic loss will be much higher, and combined with impacts outside of Jamaica, is expected to approach $10 billion.

Tourism

Riviere worries that the travel sector could be hit with a double whammy, if the same trend follows what happened to the leisure and hospitality sector after the passage of Hurricane Beryl in 2024, when workers left hard-hit hotels and resorts to find jobs elsewhere and they did not return.

So, we have then had a bit of a shortfall of labor force in the industry because these workers found something that might have been better hours or better pay, he said. Its very difficult to tell, but once they were restored after Hurricane Beryl last year, one of the comments from hotels and resorts was that some of their employees did not come back.

Retaining employees and reopening as soon as possible to serve tourists in time for peak visitor season are why resorts are pressing to get back up and running.

Its fair to say a lot of resorts were hit, a lot of travel was affected, but a lot of travel businesses are looking in to be in recovery mode and filing claims. And youd be shocked that some hotels are starting to reopen, some of the ones that were less damaged are starting to reopen away from the center of the damagethe reaction weve seen is quite clear, that theyll do whatever it takes to reopen as soon as soon as possible, Riviere said.

Personal Lines

One trend that has somewhat surprised Riviere has been the claims coming in from personal lines.

We are seeing that is very, very slow to come in, Riviere said.

Its expected that the first few days after a disaster for personal lines claims to flow in slowly as people deal with more immediate problems, like putting a roof over their heads and ensuring their families are safe. A week or two after disaster is when homeowner claims start to steadily flow in, he said.

And were not seeing that, Riviere said. Its a bit of a surprise, because were ready for homeowner claims, and theyre very slow to come in.

A low volume of claims from areas like the South Shore, where insurance penetration is lower, makes sensebut not so much in areas where insurers have big books of homeowners insurance business.

Related: Five Reasons Why The US Escaped A Hurricane Landfall So Far

In Montego Bay, and areas where there are big centers of population, we do see where our insurance companies tell us that they do have a book of homeowners business, but those claims are still coming in slowly, Riviere said.

He surmises that what may be keeping many homeowners from filing claims could just be the difficulty communicating.

Its still very difficult to get to cell or internet, etcbecause a lot of cell towers are down and a lot of communications lines are down, Riviere said. In fact, our teams are all operating on Starlink.

The good news is that communications and services are coming onlineslowly. That may lead to more claims being filed, and it will enable experts like Riviere to get a clearer picture of the losses. He declined to provide any loss estimates at this time.

Every day, the North Shore gets a little bit better, Riviere said. (The other day) I was in Montego Bay, and this is one of the things thatits kind of almost humorous, which it shouldnt bebut we celebrate the fact that in Montego Bay there was a traffic light working. So, it means its the return of the utility power. Were seeing those things ameliorate every day and we are expecting that once these things get resolvedor they are at least temporarily resolvedwe are expecting to see some more activity on the domestic homeowner book of business.

Because Jamaica is an island nation, rebuilding is a slower process than in the U.S. or Europe, for example, where a neighboring state that didnt sustain damage can easily contribute resources and aid.

You cannot have that on the island, Riviere said. Its impossible to achieve in the short term and difficult to achieve even midterm. It takes a while before they can get physical help from others.

Top photo: People gather among debris near a bridge in Black River, Jamaica, Oct. 30, 2025, in the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa. (AP Photo/Matias Delacroix, File).
Moti Ferder is accused in multiple lawsuits of defrauding clients as Lugano Diamonds files for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. (AP Photo/Ted Shaffrey) AP

Lugano Diamonds & Jewelry has filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection and is seeking a buyer after a series of lawsuits accused founder Mordechai Moti Ferder of defrauding clients and disappearing with their money, the Los Angeles Times reports.

The company and several affiliates submitted the bankruptcy petition Sunday in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware, according to a news release.

Lugano is asking the court to approve the sale of most of its assets while keeping stores open during the restructuring, the LA Times said. It is also seeking authorization for $12 million in financing, which would give the business roughly $10 million in immediate liquidity.

A Boston-based investment firm, Enhanced Retail Funding, has offered to serve as the initial stalking horse bidder in an auction that will remain open to competing offers, according to the LA Times.

Bankruptcy follows wave of lawsuits

The Chapter 11 filing comes after about a dozen lawsuits were lodged this summer.

The suits claim Ferder, who founded Lugano with his wife Idit in 2005, struck unapproved side deals with wealthy individuals to purchase gems and promised to share profits, the LA Times said.

According to another lawsuit filed by Lugano attorneys, Ferder recorded money from those transactions as company revenue while hiding the obligation to repay investors.

A court declaration filed Sunday said Lugano officials have been contacted by nearly 60 people with substantial claims related to the alleged scheme. The situation caused the company to misrepresent its financial health. Although Lugano believed it generated $470 million in 2024 revenue with an operating income of $180 million, the filing says the companys performance appears to have been overstated.

Company lists up to $1 billion in liabilities

The Chapter 11 petition, submitted by Chief Restructuring Officer J. Michael Issa, lists assets between $100 million and $500 million and liabilities between $500 million and $1 billion, according to the LA Times. Luganos merchandise is valued between $147.8 million and $175 million.

The jeweler has already started cutting back, closing its London location and planning to shutter stores in Greenwich, Connecticut, and Washington, D.C.

In June, interim CEO Josh Gaynor told the Orange County Business Journal the company would trim its workforce by 25%, the LA Times said. He was appointed after Ferder resigned May 7.

As this process is underway and we approach the holiday season, we look forward to continuing to provide our valued clients with unique, timeless pieces, Gaynor said in a news release.

Issa warned in court filings that without the proposed financing, Lugano would unlikely be able to continue operations for more than a few weeks in chapter 11.
Thousands of Hindu devotees indulged in an all-night vigil at the Pashupatinath Temple in Kathmandu, Nepal on the eve of Bala Chaturdashi, gathering under makeshift shelters and tending to oil lamps in memory of departed loved ones. The annual ritual, observed on Marga Krishna Trayodashi, the 13th day of the waning moon in the Nepali month of Mangsir, is dedicated to seeking peace for the souls of ancestors.Participants remain awake throughout the night, protecting the lamps they light in honour of deceased family members. At dawn on Marga Krishna Chaturdashi, they take a ritual bath before beginning a circumambulatory walk around the temple complex, scattering Satbeejseven sacred grainsalong the traditional pilgrimage route.On Bala Chaturdashi Satbeej will be spread; today the lamps have been lit. I came here aloneI have been lighting lamps inside the main temple complex for several years. This year, special arrangements were made for the lighting. I lit the lamp near the Krishna Temple. We usually light lamps in the name of loved ones who have passed away; I lit the lamp for my mother, devotee Dhana Kumari Neupane was quoted as saying by ANI.The seven grains including, rice, barley, sesame, wheat, chickpeas, maize and foxtail millet are sprinkled along the customary route, which spans Kailash, Suryaghat, Gaurighat, Aryaghat, Guhyeshwari, Mrigasthali, Bishworup, Kirateshwar and the 108 Shivalinga.On the festivals eve, devotees also set adrift small oil lamps on the Bagmati River, a symbolic gesture believed to guide departed souls towards light in the afterlife. Many spend the night singing hymns along the riverbank, facing the revered temple.On Bala Chaturdashi, I am here to spread Satbeej in the name of my late father and mother. We stay awake all night, singing hymns. I also wanted to witness the atmosphere here this year, said Leela Maya Basnet, who had travelled from Nepals Dolakha district.The ritual is rooted in Hindu scripture, particularly the Himavat Khanda of the Skanda Purana, where Lord Shiva explains that even a single grain scattered in the sacred Mrigasthali forest on this day holds the spiritual merit of donating one ratti of gold. The offering is believed to ensure peace for ancestors and prosperity for the living family.
Chinas travel advisory against visiting Japan has nudged tour operators to cancel prebooked flights and hotels for group travelers in December and suspend marketing of such trips to locals, as a diplomatic spat shows no signs of abating.In the days after the safety warning  a response to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis remarks on Taiwan  at least two state-owned Chinese travel agencies scrapped group bookings made months in advance, according to people familiar with the matter.The pro-active move was aimed at protecting the agencies against potential losses amid policy uncertainty and shifting sentiment, said the people, who asked not to be identified commenting on the geopolitically sensitive topic. The cancellations were made easier by Chinese airlines offer to waive cancellation fees, and allow flexible rebooking options, they said.Some Japanese businesses too are beginning to feel the ripples. The Imperial Hotel Ltd. said it has started receiving notifications of postponements and cancellations for corporate events and stays. A spokesperson for Kintetsu Group Holdings Co. reported that cancellations for November and December bookings at hotels operated by its subsidiary Kintetsu & Miyako Hotels are higher than usual.Chinas advisory came after Takaichi suggested that military force used in a Taiwan conflict could constitute a survival-threatening situation for Japan. While Beijing has so far refrained from any broader retaliatory action, the situation remains fluid, and Tokyo has stepped up diplomatic efforts to ease tensions.To be sure, cancellations among individual travelers were limited as of Tuesday, according to people familiar with the matter. Chinas largest online travel platforms have seen bookings to Japan remain largely intact, they said. The Japan Association of Travel Agents also reported no major disruptions from its members yet.On Xiaohongshu, a popular Chinese social media platform, users appeared split: some of them posted screenshots of canceled itineraries, while others in a 300-member group chat dedicated to Japan travel insisted that they would go ahead with their plans. Politics is politics. And life is life, one user wrote.In 2024, only 11.9% of Chinese tourists to Japan traveled in tour groups, down from 42.9% in 2015, according to Japan tourism statistics. The rise of independent travel  often booked through mobile apps and social media  has made it harder for authorities to influence outbound travel behavior at scale.In places like Niseko, a popular ski destination, the mood remains calm. The local tourism association expects limited disruption, with Fumihiko Nakano, the secretary general of Niseko Resort Tourist Association Co., noting that Chinese visitors have reported positive experiences and that residents and business operators dont tend to hold strong nationalist sentiment.At the moment there is no changes to booking trend from China to Japan, or Japan to China but we will continue to closely monitor the situation, Shinichi Inoue, the chief executive officer of ANA Holdings Incs All Nippon Airways, said in an interview on Saturday.China accounts for roughly one in four visitors to Japan this year, and up to 15% of Japanese carriers international seat capacity. The number of Chinese tourists jumped 23% in October from a year ago to 715,700, according to data from the Japan National Tourism Organisation. The pace outstripped the overall rise in foreign visitors, which climbed 18% during the same period.
Two flights from the Middle East to Sri Lanka were diverted to the Thiruvananthapuram airport on November 19 due to bad weather in Sri Lanka. One was a Turkish Airline flight from Istanbul with 258 passengers and 10 crew, while the other was a SriLankan Airlines flight from Dammam in Saudi Arabia with 188 people, including 8 crew members, onboard, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL) said in a release.Both flights landed safely at the Thiruvananthapuram airport around 7 am and departed for Colombo at 8.38 am and 8.48 am, respectively, after the weather cleared there, TIAL said.Meanwhile, the Delhi High Court on Tuesday asked the Federation of Indian Pilots (FIP) to show willful disobedience and non-compliance of judicial order by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation for not fully implementing the new flight duty time limitation norms approved by the court earlier this year.The court's query came after the counsel for FIP submitted that although aviation regulator DGCA had undertaken before the high court in April to implement the FDTL norms in a phased manner beginning from July 1 to November 1, it was not permitting several airlines including Air India and SpiceJet to deviate from the norms."I understand if there is an issue of unreasonableness or discrimination but today you are asking for this court to initiate contempt proceedings. I am again asking, where has there been willful disobedience or non-compliance? There was a direction. The court ultimately says, stick to the timelines," Justice Amit Sharma said.The counsel for DGCA submitted that it has the power to grant exemptions and these were only for six months, subject to review.The court granted time to FIP to place before it previous court orders and listed the matter on December 15.The contempt plea was filed against the backdrop of the DGCA making certain relaxations in the FDTL framework, including allowing more night landings and duty time extension for two-pilot Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft operations.
VFS Global has been awarded a five-year global contract to manage visa applications for Slovakia, as the Central European nation sees sustained growth in international visitor numbers. The agreement, issued by the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic, covers both short-stay (C) visasvalid for trips of up to 90 days within Slovakia or the wider Schengen areaand long-stay (D) visas for stays exceeding 90 days, typically for work or study.Under the new contract, VFS Global will operate visa services in 83 countries, including India, through 159 visa application centres. To support the rising demand for travel to Slovakia, 87 new centres across 41 countries are scheduled to open in January 2026, with a further 72 centres in 42 countries to be launched later in the contract period.The expanded network comes amid steady growth in inbound tourism. Slovakia welcomed more than 2.16 million international visitors in the year to December 2024a 3.9% increase on the previous year. The highest volume of visa applications over the next five years is expected from India, Turkey, Uzbekistan, China, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Nepal, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, and the United Arab Emirates, markets which together are projected to account for roughly 70% of total applications. Slovakias appeal continues to be driven by its cultural heritage, mountain and spa tourism, and opportunities for extended stays related to work and education.Jiten Vyas, Chief Commercial Officer and Head of Business Development at VFS Global, said, We are delighted to resume our partnership with the Ministry of Foreign and European Affairs of the Slovak Republic. With growing international travel to Slovakia, our expanded network of centres will make the application process more accessible, efficient, and user-friendly.Applicants will also be able to access a suite of optional premium services at all centres. These include document authenticity verification to confirm the genuineness of supporting documents, higher authentication of foreign public documents, translation services, courier return services, and other additional services such as Premium Lounges. The company emphasised that opting for these services will not affect the decision-making process or timeline of visa applications.VFS Globals role remains limited strictly to front-end administrative functions, including collecting applications, supporting documents, and biometric enrolment. All visa decisions will continue to be made exclusively by the Embassy of the Slovak Republic or other authorised Schengen bodies.
China has notified Tokyo that it will suspend all imports of Japanese seafood and issued a travel advisory for the country amid its disagreements over the status of Taiwan.The development follows comments by Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, stating that a Chinese attempt to seize Taiwan by force would constitute a survival-threatening situation for Japan, prompting strong reactions from China.If there are battleships and the use of force, no matter how you think about it, it could constitute a survival-threatening situation, Takaichi said.Japan's 2015 security law defines a survival-threatening situation as one in which an armed attack on its allies poses an existential threat to Japan. In such cases, Japan's self-defence forces can be activated to counter the threat.Takaichi's comments, though described as hypothetical, drew ire from China, which claims Taiwan as its territory and maintains its right to take control of it by force. Japan's policy of strategic ambiguity towards Taiwan seemed to veer from, with Takaichi implying Japan might exercise collective self-defence in the event of an attack.Later, Chinas foreign ministry demanded Takaichi retract what it called her egregious remarks related to Taiwan. It also warned that Japan must bear all consequences for the comments.In a news conference, foreign ministry spokesperson Lin Jian said that the remarks represented a crude interference in Chinas internal affairs. Should Japan dare to intervene militarily in the Taiwan Strait situation, it will constitute an act of aggression, and China will strike back decisively, Lin added.Meanwhile, Xue Jian, China's consul general in Osaka, responded to X, reportedly saying "the dirty neck that sticks itself in must be cut off," in a post that was later deleted.Takaichi has refused to retract her remarks, which she justified as "consistent with the government's traditional position". The PM stated that she would be cautious about commenting on specific scenarios from now on.Tokyo summoned China's ambassador to protest the extremely inappropriate comment, which was followed by Beijing calling Japan's envoy, issuing travel advisories, and deploying ships and drones near the Senkaku Islands, causing Japan to dispatch fighter jets.Chinese state-run editorials also targeted Japan, with state broadcaster CCTV claiming last week that Takaichi's words were "extremely egregious in nature and impact" and constituted "gross interference in China's internal affairs."On Monday, China's embassy in Japan stated Takaichi's words "mark the first instance of a postwar Japanese Prime Minister linking the Taiwan issue with the national crisis, and the first time proposing that Japan may intervene militarily in the Taiwan Strait. The embassy claimed that such a viewpoint is similar to "the tactics used by Japanese militarism in history to launch invasions under the pretext of a 'national crisis.'"In its latest move, China has notified Tokyo of the suspension of seafood imports, reversing a partial easing of the ban earlier this year.Experts suggest that the tensions could last for several months, CNBC reported.
China has demanded that Japan withdraw Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis recent comment that Tokyo could respond with military action if China attacks Taiwan  a statement Beijing says has eroded the foundation of bilateral relations.Foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning warned that Chinese countermeasures already affecting Japans tourism sector will escalate unless Tokyo retracts the erroneous remarks and corrects the wrongdoing.The diplomatic row is already hitting Japanese tourism and exports. China has advised its citizens against travelling to Japan and at least two major state-owned travel agencies have cancelled months-old group bookings, according to Bloomberg.Marketing for Japan tours has halted, while Tokyo-based East Japan International Travel Service reported losing 80% of its bookings for the rest of the year. The impact is expected to spread to food exports as well, after Beijing informed Tokyo it would suspend all imports of Japanese seafood.The tensions come despite Chinese President Xi Jinpings recent calls for a mutually beneficial JapanChina relationship. Chinese state media, however, has amplified wartime messaging, with Xinhua heavily promoting accounts of Japans WWII aggression during the 80th anniversary of Chinas victory over Japan  commemorated with a military parade attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un.At the same briefing, Mao Ning cited Japans wartime history to argue that Japan is unqualified for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council.Japan waged a war of aggression during the Second World War and still has not fully repented for its war crimes, she said, adding that a country with such a record is in no position to take on responsibilities for maintaining global peace and security.
Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL) is constructing an artificial offshore island to accelerate oil and gas exploration, Bloomberg reported on Wednesday, November 19, citing company officials.

The state-owned explorer is reclaiming land from the sea about 30 kilometres off the coast of Sindh, near Sujawal, to create a stable launchpad for continuous drilling operations.

According to the Bloomberg report, Arshad Palekar, PPLs General Manager for Exploration and Core Business Development, said on the sidelines of an energy conference in Islamabad that the six-foot-high platform would prevent high tides from disrupting round-the-clock operations.

The company plans to drill around 25 wells once the island is operational. Construction is expected to be completed by February, he said.

Fresh push after US signals interest

According to Bloomberg, Pakistans exploration efforts have gathered pace since US President Donald Trump flagged interest in the countrys massive oil reserves in a social media post in July. Following that, Pakistan awarded offshore exploration licences to PPL, Mari Energies Ltd and Prime International Oil and Gas Co.

Also Read: Trump repeats claim of stopping war between India and Pakistan

Trump had announced that Washington and Islamabad had concluded a deal to jointly work on developing Pakistans oil resources, saying in a Truth Social post that the partnership could even lead to Pakistan selling oil to India one day." Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif later described the agreement as historic, according to local reports.

Multiple discoveries amid long-held claims

Pakistan has long maintained that substantial oil reserves lie off its coast. Earlier in June, state-owned Oil & Gas Development Company (OGDCL) announced a new discovery in Sindhs Kharo area after drilling the Faakir-1 wildcat well to a depth of 4,185 metres. The well tested at 6.4 million cubic feet of gas per day and 55 barrels of condensate, officials said.

Last year, Pakistani media widely reported that a major petroleum and natural gas deposit had been identified in the countrys territorial waters, with DawnNewsTV citing a senior security official who claimed it could be among the worlds four largest reserves.

However, former Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) member Muhammad Arif urged caution at the time, noting that while survey data looked promising, commercial viability was never guaranteed. He said exploration could require around $5 billion in investment and up to five years before meaningful extraction.
Former Bangladesh prime minister Sheikh Hasina was sentenced to death on Monday, November 17, by the country's International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for her involvement in "crimes against humanity" during the student-led protests in July-August 2024.

The protests, which were initially over dissatisfaction regarding civil service quotes, soon evolved into a broader anti-Hasina movement which turned violent and toppled her government on August 5, 2024. The movement lasted for over 36 days.

Hasina fled to India and has remained in self-imposed exile since August 5, 2024.

With the Bangladesh ICT sentencing Hasina, former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, and former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun for atrocities against students during the protests, speculation over Hasina's extradition has increased.

Notably, there is no official confirmation on whether Bangladesh has formally initiated the extradition process and filed a request to India.

Let's dive deep into what the India Bangladesh Extradition Treaty states, if such request is made.

India-Bangladesh Extradition Treaty 2013

India and Bangladesh signed an extradition treaty on January 28, 2013, under Hasina's regime itself. It was signed by then Indian home minister Sushil Kumar Shinde and his Bangladeshi counterpart Muhiuddin Khan Alamgir, and came into force from October 23, 2013.

Read more: Sheikh Hasina sentenced to death by Bangladesh tribunal for 'crimes against humanity'

The treaty highlights the partnership and cooperation between India and Bangladesh in combatting terrorism and "suppression of crime" by making provisions for the "reciprocal extradition of offenders."

The 21-Article treaty outlines several provisions related to extradition, such as obligations, offences, responsible central authorities, political exceptions, prosecution, grounds for refusal, procedures, and arrest, among others.

Central Authority and Agreement

In Hasina's case, there is no official update from India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), the central authority designated in the treaty, about any extradition request from Bangladesh's central authority, its Ministry of Home Affairs.

As per Article 5 of the treaty, both the countries have agreed to extradite nationals "either in respect of a territorial offence" or in "respect of an extraterritorial offence."

Political Offence and Exceptions

Article 6 of the treaty gives exceptions in terms of "political offence." Article 6 (1) states, "Extradition may be refused if the offence of which it is requested is an offence of a political character."

However, Article 6 (2) outlines several offences that "shall not be regarded as offences of a political character" such as:



Any acts or omissions which are punishable as a criminal offence according to the obligations under multilateral treaties to which both contracting states are party.



Murder.



Manslaughter or culpable homicide.



Assault occasioning actual bodily harm, or causing injury, maliciously wounding or inflicting grievous bodily harm whether by means of a weapon, a dangerous substance or otherwise.



The causing of an explosion likely to endanger life or cause serious damage to property.



The making or possession of an explosive substance by a person who intends either himself or through another person to endanger life or cause serious damage to property.



The possession of a firearm or ammunition by a person who intends either himself or through another person to endanger life.



The use of a firearm by a person with intent to resist or prevent the arrest or detention of himself or another person.



Damaging property whether used for public utilities or otherwise with intent to endangering life or with reckless disregard as to whether the life of another would thereby be endangered.



Kidnapping, abduction, false imprisonment or unlawful detention, including the taking of a hostage.



Incitement to murder.



Any other offence related to terrorism which at the time of the request is, under the law of the requested party, not to be regarded as an offence of a political character.



An attempt or conspiracy to commit any of the foregoing offences or participation as an accomplice of a person who commits or attempts to commit such an offence.



Article 7 (1) of the treaty also states that the request for extradition may be refused by the requested state if the person whose extradition is sought can be tried for the extradition offence in the courts of that state. In that case, the requested state has to submit the case to its competent authorities so that prosecution may be considered.

Read more: Bangladesh coup attempt: Sheikh Hasina betrayed by Army Chief with CIA help, alleges former home minister

Grounds for Refusal of Extradition

Article 8 of the treaty outlines clear instances and grounds when the extradition can be refused.

As per Article 8 (1) (a), a person may not be extradited if he satisfies the requested state that it would be unjust or oppressive to extradite him because of:



The trivial nature of the offence of which he is accused or is convicted.

The passage of time since he is alleged to have committed it or to have become unlawfully at large, as the case may be.

The accusation against him not having been made in good faith in the interest of justice.



Article 8 (1) (b) also prevents extradition if the offence of which the person is accused or convicted is a "military offence," which is not also an offence under the general criminal law.

Treaty leaves room for interpretation

Hence, the 2013 treaty gives plenty of exceptions against the extradition of individuals of both countries.

In the case of Hasina, murder and use of lethal weapons under Article 6  counts she was found guilty of by the ICT  can expedite her extradition. On the other hand, Article 8 could give her a chance to counter and prove her case against her extradition.

Therefore, the treaty leaves ample of room for manoeuvre. Watch this space to catch the latest on the evolving situation.
From the rich text of Jeffrey Epsteins thousands of emails, there was one detail that really popped out

The release of some of Jeffrey Epsteins emails last week led to a number of revelations about the convicted sex traffickers movements and relationships in time leading up to his 2019 arrest. For the world of late night, the cache of emails is an endless treasure trove. On Monday night, one particular detail from Epsteins correspondence drew the attention of hosts. An email between Epstein and his brother, where the brother, Mark Epstein, asked Epstein if Russian President Vladimir Putin was in possession of photos showing President Donald Trump pleasuring someone named Bubba.

Bubba, of course, is one of the many nicknames that former President Bill Clinton accumulated through his long career.

It didnt take the internet long to erupt in memes, songs, and videos about this alleged photo of the two presidents locked in a passionate coital embrace. No matter that Epsteins brother, Mark, said that the Bubba referred to in the emails was not Bill Clinton, people used their imagination and photoshop to litter the internet in president-on-president fan fiction.

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The late night show hosts then took a turn with thishighly unsubstantiatedrumor.

Over on The Late Show, Stephen Colbert predictably took the choir boy approach. I don't want to talk about this. I mean, I try to be a good person, Colbert introduced the subject. You know, I taught Sunday school. We have standards at the Late Show, but we also have a self-imposed mandate to talk a lot about what a lot of people are talking about. And for the past few days, a lot of people have been talking about this email.

Then, an image of the email flashed on the screen.

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First of all, who is this lucky Bubba? Well, lots of folks pointed out that Bubba is a nickname for former President Bill Clinton, Colbert said, to an audience going wild. The late night host cut all of the fun short though, by giving us all of that context about Mark Epsteins clarification.

This Bubba thing got so crazy that Epstein's brother, Mark Epstein, who wrote that email, came forward to clarify that the Bubba he was referring to was not Bill Clinton, Jimmy Kimmel similarly clarified on Jimmy Kimmel Live! He made one dirtier joke. But who is Bubba then? Maybe Gump. Maybe he was deep-throating shrimp. We don't know.

On both shows, who have already been the subject of repeated attacks by President Trump, you could feel the deft and careful hands of their respective networks legal team reigning in the material. This cautiousness made it light work for The Daily Show with Jon Stewart to sweep in and make the best jokes on the subject matter.

Unlike Colbert, Stewart clearly doesnt regret to inform the audience about the latest email scandal.

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On the premiere of season eight of the Epstein files, old emails continue to resurface, sparking renewed interest, because of exchanges like this one, which really encapsulates the absolutely astonishing nature of this entire affair, Stewart introduced the topic.  I give you-- this is an email exchange between Jeffrey Epstein and his brother, Mark.

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Cut to a reporters voice saying, In one email, Epstein's brother, Mark, told him to ask Steve Bannon if, quote, Putin has the photos of Trump blowing Bubba?

Theres a spark of both joy and disgust in Stewarts eyes rarely seen together in one person as he pauses for the audiences laughter. This sentence, maybe 18 words long, seven of those words are Steve Bannon, Putin, photos, Trump blowing Bubba, Steart continued. It's a rich text. Literary scholars will secure tenure of the analysis of this text. Steve Bannon, Putin, photos, Trump blowing Bubba. And I know what you're probably thinking. Jeffrey Epstein had a brother?

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Then, theres usual clarification about Mark Epstein saying it wasnt Bill Clinton, and almost the exact Bubba Gump Shrimp joke. But Stewart didnt stop there; after playing a clip of Trump insisting the Epstein files are not that interesting, Stewart disagreed.

The little taste of thatno pun intendeddid arouseagain, no pun intended some curiosity about the rest of if I maythe load, Stewart said. But pressure is buildingis there any way to talk about this story that doesn't sound ejaculate adjacent?

Stewart then ran through a few more turns of phrases: People are begging on their knees. No, this is not. Demanding release? No, this is, he said, before giving up.

With the benefit of time and being on Comedy Central, not CBS or ABC, Stewart was able to get the filthiest, which is exactly the approach this bizarre news cycle requires.
Upon the arrival of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, President Donald Trump decried butchered journalist Jamal Khashoggi as extremely controversial  I mean, did the murdered dissident ever even report that theres a Chilis in Riyadh?

Earlier this year, numerous A-list American comedians (and Chris Distefano) learned that, unlike American politicians, the American public isnt too keen on the Saudi Royal Family or any public figures who play nice with them. Between supporting the 9/11 hijackers, ordering the torture, murder and dismemberment of Khashoggi and turning their country into the slavery capital of the world, the Saudi Royals have earned their reputation for being the most despicable, bloodthirsty billionaires on the planet  but, hey, at least theyre comedy fans.

Now, almost two months following the state-funded and state-run Riyadh Comedy Festival, the Saudi Crown Prince is in Washington, D.C., where President Trump extended a royal welcome to the despot whose family can count both Omar al-Bayoumi and Bill Burr on their payroll.

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Earlier today, when American journalists pushed Trump and the Crown Prince on the latter's record on human rights, specifically in how he arranged the brutal slaying of Khashoggi, Trump defended the White Houses distinguished guest, striking back at critics with all the fervor of Burr ranting about bots on Conan's podcast.

When asked about the late Washington Post journalist Khashoggi, whose grisly 2018 murder in Istanbul, Turkey made international headlines, Trump shot back at the press, Youre mentioning somebody that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you liked him or didnt like him, things happen.

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And, even though the CIA, the Turkish government and The New York Times all concluded that bin Salman orchestrated the killing of one of his most prominent critics, Trump denied his guest's culpability in Khashoggi's assassination, saying of the Crown Prince, He knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that. You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.

While many of Americans are now in uproar over Trump's sick comments about Khashoggi and his embrace of him, predictably, the Riyadh Comedy Festival lineup remains silent on the issue. Despite how numerous headliners from the Saudi Royal Family's comedy showcase have fashioned themselves to be astute political commentators  Burr, Andrew Schulz and Dave Chappelle stand out as the worst offenders  you'll probably never catch one of them criticizing Trump for buddying up with the Crown Prince or desecrating Khashoggi's memory.

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The Executive Branch has a long history of playing nice with the Saudi Royal Family, and you can't exactly blame the Riyadh Comedy Festival participants for Trump predictably throwing Khashoggi under the bus to appease a tyrant with whom his family has close and lucrative business ties. However, Trump's completely-in-character condemnation of Khashoggi highlights how morally bankrupt you have to be to take money from the Saudi Royal Family and publicly defend their reputation.

Put simply, no matter how much Burr or his buddies may condemn Trump's callous greed, his open corruption and his complete disregard for human life, at the end of the day, they're all kissing the same ring, and the same name goes on everyone's checks.
Not every podcast checks all the boxes for all people. But there are some that have such a freewheeling concept that you have to wonder who they are for. Thats where the podcast Brilliant Idiots sits for me. With more than 300 episodes and more than 400,000 subscribers on YouTube alone, it's definitely not struggling to find an audience.

But after more than a decade on air, the show, hosted by Andrew Schulz and Charlamagne tha God, struggles with something else: their political relevancy. Charlamagne is a rising star in the political commentary space. He appeared on November CNN 2025 election night, covering major gubernatorial races in Virginia and New Jersey, and the mayoral election in New York City.

While Charlamagne has his CNN contributor credentials, Schulz has also had moments. For that same election, He managed to snag an interview on his other podcast, Flagrant, with New York City mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani just weeks before the Democratic socialist won his big election.

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It is an impressive showing, without doubt. But theres an aspect of their growing star profiles that has hung a cloud over the hosts of Brilliant Idiots. During the lead up to the presidential election in 2024, Schulz had now-President Donald Trump on the show for a very uncritical interview. Schulz also gave Trump a full-throated endorsement.

Now a year later, that decision repeatedly haunts Schulz. Not only can he not go anywhere without being confronted with the choice, but he has also had to distance himself from Trump over issues related to the Epstein files and other highly controversial matters. Its not just weighing on Schulz anymore, either. Its starting to bother his Brilliant Idiots co-host, too.

Yo, I'm getting so tired of getting asked about you, bro, Charlemagne said relatively early in their November 15 episode. Wait, why? What happened? Schulz asked.

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It's just like I can'tThis has never happened before to me in my life, Charlamagne said. The longtime radio host then dived into a recent podcast interview he did with Melyssa Ford where he was asked, again, the age-old question of how can you be friends with somebody who supports Trump, Charlemagne recalled.

The issue prompts a conversation about Schulz and Charlamagnes thoughts about voting, politics, and where they draw their lines between differences of opinion and irreparable differences of character for friends. It was a lot of dancing around this general sentiment: I dont care about who you voted for, its about what you stand for. Real wishy-washy nonsense that ignores personal responsibility and pretends these two are just two guys talking at the bar, instead of commanding their considerable platform.

Later, when the pair talk about the cruelty of the Trump administration cutting the funding for the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) during the government shutdown, there's a real disconnect between Schulzs previously stated political endorsements and the words coming out of his mouth.

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Obviously, on top of the conversation lacking any coherent political ideology, its just not funny. Two men getting defensive about SNAP but then, in the same conversation, dismissing the political views of a prominent figure like Andrew Schulz. There's not a joke to be found, and instead the desire to disconnect the impact of Schulzs previous statements to his impressionable audience of disaffected young men comes off as shooting from the hip and desperate.

Neither are clearly not interested in holding each other accountable for the vacillating political opinions of the show. Maybe they rely on an audience that has as flimsy of a world view as they doand maybe it will work.

But then, the hosts of Brilliant Idiots cant get irritated when those outside that orbit ask for clarification, because their influence and reach is real.
Andrew Schulz just came out in support of the U.S. military using drones to extrajudicially destroy boats and kill people in the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea. We're still waiting for the punchline.

The past election cycle saw certain stand-up comedians take center stage in the nations political discourse, sometimes literally. Schulz, Tony Hinchcliffe, Joe Rogan, Theo Von, Tim Dillon and more vaguely-to-staunchly-conservative comics promoted, interviewed, and palled around with Donald Trump and J.D. Vance on the campaign trail, and, now, were forced to engage with these figures not just as professional funnymen, but as influential political operatives with direct ties to the highest office in government.

For his part as one of the Presidents official podcasters, Schulz has been a bit of an erratic voice in political discourse over the first year of Trumps second term, and its been hard to pin down his exact politics as he opines on everything from Jeffrey Epstein to SNAP benefits to the ongoing military action against supposed drug boats coming from Venezuela.

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During a recent episode of Schulz podcast Brilliant Idiots, which he co-hosts with Charlamagne Tha God, Schulz went on an impassioned rant about the hypocrisy of people who made poor-taste jokes about the death of Charlie Kirk, but who criticize the execution of supposed drug smugglers without trial.

Ba-Dum Tiss.

How, exactly, Schulz expects the federal government to prove which aquatic corpse belonged to a drug dealer without due process remains a mystery. But, more than that, the mere fact that Schulz is using his massive platform to careen wildly between conservative talking points without even attempting to sneak in a Elon-Musk's-Twitter-level joke makes it seem like Schulz has truly given up on the comedy angle of his public persona.

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Back in June, Schulz bragged about his growing influence in the non-comedic political media in a conversation with The New York Times, glibly suggesting, "I might be the foremost political journalist of my time." Now that he's using his podcast to weigh in on whether or not there should be any sort of legal process in place before the government blows mariners in the Pacific ocean to smithereens, it's clear that Schulz is prioritizing this superlative, self-imposed duty over actually making people laugh.

But if Schulz is going to deliver humorless, half-witted, stream-of-consciousness speeches on the comparative political value of human lives, he can at least start to take his posture as seriously as he takes himself. It's hard to engage with Schulz' opinions on morality and foreign policy when he's slouching his crotch towards the camera like he's a stoned frat boy debating whether Inception or The Dark Knight was Christopher Nolan's best work.
Rich and powerful friends of Jeffrey Epstein allegedly enjoyed some seriously terrible things on his private island. Now, Epsteins most notorious accomplice basks in the exclusive comforts of Club Fed, courtesy of the Commander in Chief.

In July, 2020, when Ghislaine Maxwell was still just an accused child sex trafficker and not yet a convicted one, her old acquaintance Donald Trump expressed his support for the socialite and sexual predator, telling the press of Maxwell, I just wish her well." Now, with Maxwell serving 20 years in federal prison for counts of sex trafficking of a minor and conspiracy, and following numerous private meetings between Maxwell and Trumps Department of Justice, Maxwell resides in Federal Prison Camp, Bryan, Texas, a pastoral minimum security prison where she enjoys numerous special accommodations allegedly ensured by the President himself.

On Monday night's episode of The Daily Show, Jon Stewart detailed all the special prizes that Maxwell won from the penal system just days after she gave testimony that she never saw Trump commit any heinous sex crimes during his ample time spent with Epstein.

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Said Stewart, The perks that Maxwell is getting in prison would seem sketchy for a run-of-the-mill, white-collar larcenist, let alone a convicted sex trafficker.

In his monologue, Stewart referenced the two private meetings that Maxwell held with the Deputy US Attorney General Todd Blanche back in July, in which Maxwell reportedly claimed that she never witnessed Trump engage in any criminal activity  for that matter, she says that she never saw Epstein do anything wrong, either. Days later, the Department of Justice moved Maxwell from the Federal Correction Institution, Tallahassee to the Texas prison, which is known to be much more comfortable than her previous confines.

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As CNN reported, Maxwell's new Hilton-level perks include:

Private meals and mail delivery

Cellmates reassigned for privacy

Special visits in chapel

And, hilariously,

Warden helps her send documents and emails

The warden??" Stewart exclaimed, before theatrically breaking down Maxwell's executive privileges in a solo performance:

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Maxwell: Hello, Warden! It's Ghislaine! I'm having just an awful time converting this file to PDF. Would you be a dear?

Warden: Oh, yeah, I'll send the IT guy 

Maxwell: Oh no! You will attend to this personally!

Warden: Yes, Ghislaine.

Maxwell: I'm sorry?

Warden: Yes, Miss Maxwell.

And scene.

I mean, come on, the f---ing warden?? Stewart erupted, And, it gets cushier, literally! Stewart then played a clip in which CNN explained how Maxwell is also guaranteed unlimited toilet paper during her luxurious stay at FPC Bryan. The audience literally gasped right now! Stewart said of the reaction to the perk.

I've been a free man my whole life, I have never had unlimited toilet paper! Stewart commented, Never! In my life! I wasn't raised that way, but Maxwell, she's just wipin' and wipin'!"
Back in the pre-streaming era of television, big ticket events were often available via pay-per-view, the service that allowed cable customers to pay an extra fee in order to access premium content, while also allowing teenagers to watch adult films that looked like RoboCops acid flashbacks.

In 2002, Trey Parker and Matt Stone decided to get in on this trend with the South Park 5th Anniversary Special. For just $6.95, fans could celebrate five years of South Park by virtually attending a crazy party hosted by its creators, one which featured clips from the series and special celebrity guests.

But those who shelled out the seven bucks may have been surprised to find that the gathering wasnt quite the rager that the commercial promised.

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Presented as a fake episode of a Wild On!-like show called Wild Parties, the special begins with the host welcoming viewers to the hottest, wildest party in all of Hollywood. But once inside the venue, it turns out that Parker and Stone are the only ones who actually showed up.

Matt and Trey are still super-pumped and continue drinking, dancing and doing whippits  and by that, we mean inhaling air from balloons  all while the bartender and TV presenter sit around looking bored and depressed.

There are a few celebrity guests, including Jay Leno and Hugh Hefner, but they appear live via satellite. At one point, American Pie star Chris Klein pops by the empty club and then promptly bolts.

The highlight of the show is when Danny DeVito shows up sort of. In a clip that recently resurfaced online following DeVitos 81st birthday, Parker and Stone conspicuously green-screen the Twins star into the event as if he were one of the Space Jam toons.

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This has certainly been a memorable party, the host concludes. Ill remember it in my dreams for many nights to come. And wake up screaming.

Of course, Parker and Stone did eventually attend some genuine commemorative shindigs for South Park, like the 15th anniversary party in 2011, which included non-green-screened guests like Duran Duran.

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And of course there was the big 25th anniversary concert in 2022.

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In retrospect, the South Park 5th Anniversary Special was a pretty hilarious send-up of self-congratulatory Hollywood celebrations. By turning their pay-per-view event into a kind of anti-special, Parker and Stone were able to mark five years of South Park while still maintaining a semblance of outsider cred.

Of course, thats easy for us to say now that all 9 minutes of original content is free on YouTube, not $6.95 on PPV.
Roastmaster General Jeff Ross is pushing back on criticism of the American comedians who took part in the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which begs the question: Who was the Jeff Ross fan that decided this is where they draw the line?

Back in late September, many of Americas most popular comedians (and Chris Distefano) flew to Saudi Arabia to perform in the Riyadh Comedy Festival, which the Saudi Royal Family personally funded, organized and attended. Each participant in the event had to agree to a laundry list of content restrictions, namely a moratorium on making any jokes about their royal hosts, their country or their culture, and, in exchange, they each received a fat check engorged with blood money  as well as a massive hit on their public image stateside.

Riyadh performers such as Bill Burr and Dave Chappelle were lightning rods for American outrage over the Riyadh festival, as many of the comics fans accused them of shameless hypocrisy after presenting themselves as truth-speakers and iconoclasts for so many decades. However, when the average American comedy fan saw Ross face on the Riyadh Comedy Festival poster, their reaction was probably just, Yeah, that makes sense  a gig is a gig.

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Nevertheless, during a panel at the New York Comedy Festival, Ross ranted about how noble it was for him and his buddies to go on a lucrative mission trip a corner of the world that had never before witnessed the splendor of Western insult comedy. Ross even called the event life-affirming, so long as that life doesn't belong to a journalist or a New York City firefighter.

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I went to the Riyadh Comedy Festival. As soon as I landed, there was a 16-year-old kid with his mom waiting for me at my hotel, Ross said of his experience in Saudi Arabia. I was like, This is exactly why I came here. Not to perform for some royal people that Ill never meet that didnt come to my show, but for the fans.

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Ross moralized, To turn our backs on the fans who were looking to hear some American culture to me, thats comedy diplomacy. Thats why Im on this Earth.

When a fellow panelist suggested that accepting exorbitant sums of money from the Saudi Royal Family to help the bloodthirsty billionaire despots launder their reputation might have put a price tag on the participating comics' principles, Ross pushed back. Why is it selling your soul? Kevin Hart gets paid great no matter where he goes. Hes got to want to go, Ross said.

People want change until someone actually tries to do something, Ross continued, If we turn our backs on an entire culture of people, then they go the other way. Theyll go toward Iran, they wont come toward the West. Nothing heals better than people from different worlds laughing at the same things.

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As many comedy fans pointed out in the wake of Ross' comments, his high-minded justification for accepting a massive check from an authoritarian regime responsible for ruling the slavery capital of the world is exactly as hollow, hypocritical and self-fellating as every other Riyadh comic's defense. Even if Ross says that he didn't care whether or not the royals attended his show, he would never have performed in Riyadh, spread the gospel of roast comedy and collected a huge payday if not for their patronage and deep pockets.

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As for the claim that Ross somehow healed a divided world by bringing his comedy to the Saudi capital  well, that's about as likely as the president of Universal Pictures personally casting Ross as the lead in the next Wicked movie.

Honestly, we'd almost respect Ross if he just admitted that, given his extremely limited offerings as a performer, he has to take any fat check that comes his way, and performing in the Saudi Royal Family's whitewashing festival wasn't really all that different from his experience at the Comedy Central Roast of Donald Trump.
Nearly six months after the shooting of King of the Hill star Jonathan Joss, a Texas grand jury has indicted Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, 57, on one count of first-degree murder. Joss was 59 at the time of his death.

According to the San Antonio Police Department, on Sunday, June 1, 2025, a suspect drove up to Joss former home where Joss and his husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzales, were checking the mail and shot the actor three times before driving away. Officers pronounced Joss dead on the scene and apprehended Alvarez one block away from the shooting. In the official police report filed after the incident, arresting officers claim that Alvarez told them, I shot him. Soon after, law enforcement released Alvarez on bond and put him on house arrest.

In the wake of Joss killing, the late actors husband asserted that the violent incident followed years of threats and homophobic harassment from the couples neighbors in San Antonio. Gonzales maintains that his husbands killing was a hate crime, claiming that the killer was yelling violent homophobic slurs at us before they opened fire.

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SAPD did not originally investigate the murder of Joss as a hate crime, but, following public outcry, Police Chief William McManus walked back his departments earlier decision. We gather the facts, and we give those facts to the district attorneys office, McManus explained, And then that hate crime designation is determined at sentencing.

Critically, Texas law does not have a separate charge for hate crimes, so the first-degree murder indictment neither confirms nor negates any possible hate crime designation for Alvarez. Gonzales, however, has expressed his certainty that the motivation behind his husband's killing was based in bigotry.

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He was murdered by someone who could not stand the sight of two men loving each other, Gonzalez declared in a Facebook post following the death of Joss.

When many of Joss' neighbors told the press that the shooting followed years of erratic and confrontational behavior on Joss' part  one anonymous San Antonio resident callously claimed, We all knew it was going to end up like this because of his antics  Gonzalez pushed back, saying that none of his husband's alleged conduct justified a lethal response.

Specifically, Gonzales spoke to The Independent about the claim that Joss was walking around their neighborhood holding a pitchfork before the shooting. I don't care if me and my husband were walking around with one pitchfork in our hand and another pitchfork up our ass, we didn't point any weapons at anybody, Gonzales told The Independent. When the man rolled up with the gun, we were checking the mail.

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Now, Gonzales and the state of Texas will seek justice for Joss' death. Gonzales has not publicly commented on the indictment.
Strengthening the protection of confidential and sensitive data is currently a priority for 40% of chief security officers.[1]

And both enterprises and small and mid-sized businesses have already made significant investments in authentication, access controls and identity and access management (IAM).[2]

But these investments are not effective without robust passwords. At the same time, password management is a cost for IT and security teams, and an inconvenience for technology users.

The scale of the problem should not be underestimated. The Verizon Data Breach Investigations Report says that half of data breaches, and over 80% of attacks on web applications involved compromised credentials.[3] And the average employee now has to manage over 100 unique user accounts .[4]

This leaves businesses facing a number of challenges around password management.

These include SSO (single sign on) authentication; automation, and integration with their identity infrastructure, including Lightweight Directory Access Protocol and Active Directory.

In addition, IT teams have to meet compliance responsibilities, ensuring that passwords and password management complies with GDPR, security standards such as ISO27001, and the business backup, recovery and auditing requirements.

Cutting down password overheads

Mid-sized businesses and enterprises all want to reduce the cost of passwords and identity management. But they want to do this without sacrificing flexibility, the time it takes to resolve password issues, and of course, security.

Dedicated password management solutions can help with this. The right tools can reduce password-related support costs by as much 80%.[5]

Even greater benefits come from improved security. Organisations that have moved to their own password management infrastructure say they see a 60% decrease in password-related security incidents.[6]

However effective a solution might be on a technical level, it will not produce the promised security or productivity benefits unless it is adopted widely.

Here, CIOs and security teams need to consider the user experience and the user interface of the tools they are deploying. Even the best solution is ineffective if users ignore it.

Deploying password management

These factors are prompting more organisations to deploy their own password management tools.

This gives IT and security teams complete control over password management, and control of data locations, or sovereignty, and access.

Additional capabilities include automated password rotation, and integration with single sign on (SSO), multi-factor authentication systems, and privileged access management.

This goes far beyond the password and identity management capabilities of the majority of enterprise applications. And there are further benefits of a single, centralised approach to password and identity management, rather than relying on each software vendors own approach.

CIOs, though, will want any dedicated password management tool to integrate with those applications, including through APIs. And they will want it to support multiple locations, including international operations.

The investment, though, will pay off.

Moving to a dedicated password manager  locally or in the cloud  can bring considerable savings. Passwork, for example, has a total cost of ownership that is up to 30% lower than comparable, alternative tools.

But it is not just about value for money. Investing in password management is about efficiency: reduced overheads, less time wasted on routine password management, and an improved user experience.

And it is investing in an essential part of any comprehensive approach to compliance and security.

Start your free trial today  explore all features now, and secure up to 50% off for your team during our Black Friday sale! Activate your discount from November 26 to December 3, 2025.

[1] Foundry, CSO Security Priorities Study, 2024

[2] Foundry, CSO Security Priorities Study, 2024

[3]Verizon DRIR 2023, pages 5 & 8 https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/Te46/reports/2023-dbir-public-sector-snapshot.pdf  client supplied reference, citation and permissions needed

[4] Passwork 2024, User Study on Passwork management practices. Sample size: 100 users

[5] Gartner, Best Practices for Password Management report, 2020

[6] Kaspersky, Patch management combined with robust password policies reduce the risk of cyberattacks to businesses by up to 60%
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Clinical skills room of China-aided Mongolian disabled children center put into use

Xinhua) 09:42, November 19, 2025

ULAN BATOR, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- An opening ceremony was held here on Tuesday for a clinical skills room of the Mongolian Rehabilitation and Development Center for Children with Disabilities.

Speaking at the ceremony, Chinese Ambassador to Mongolia Shen Minjuan said that the Mongolian Rehabilitation and Development Center for Children with Disabilities, built with Chinese assistance, has served over 50,000 disabled children since its opening in 2019, demonstrating the profound friendship between China and Mongolia.

On the occasion, a donation ceremony themed "Under the same blue sky, building love together" was also held.

In adherence to the principles of "amity, sincerity, mutual benefit, and inclusiveness," the donation and the opening of the clinical skills room are concrete measures taken by China to enhance its support for improving people's livelihoods in Mongolia, and will help Mongolia improve its rehabilitation and medical care capabilities, she noted.

Gerel Dondovdorj, director of the Mongolian Agency for the Development of Disabled Persons, stated that Mongolia will promote policy reforms concerning the rights of the disabled people in accordance with the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and introduce advanced international expertise through Mongolia-China cooperation, so that children with disabilities can enjoy equal development rights.

Representing the Chinese Embassy in Mongolia, Shen signed a donation agreement with the Mongolian Rehabilitation and Development Center for Children with Disabilities, handed over donated supplies, and unveiled the clinical skills room.

The skills room integrates functions of rehabilitation assessment, skills training, and teaching demonstrations, and will further improve the center's service system, providing more precise rehabilitation support for disabled children in Mongolia.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
The Miss Namibia Organisation says it is in consultation with its lawyers and will address the online hate speech Miss Namibia Johanna Swartbooi, who is currently competing in the Miss Universe pageant in Thailand, has been subjected to.

"Johanna has her civil liberties and is fully protected by the laws of this country with regards to racism and defamation of character. We are in consultation with our lawyers and will address it in due course," Miss Namibia Organisation chief executive Umbi Karuaihe-Upi says.

She has expressed her concern over "disgusting and unprecedented" attacks on Swartbooi.

"The Miss Namibia Organisation is taking these insults in a very serious light. These are not only tribalist and cyberbullying, but also racist and defamation of character," she says.

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Despite the negativity, Karuaihe-Upi reassured the public that the majority of Namibians and international supporters stand behind Johanna.

"The negative ones are in the minority," she says.

Karuaihe-Upi says she has had a productive conversation with Swartbooi about the situation, and for now, the focus is on her winning the crown.

The Miss Universe crowning ceremony is slated for Friday.

"She [Swartbooi] is mentally strong, and she chose to have a great time. I'm in contact with her all the time, and so is her mom and family. At least we're giving her that comfort and support to compete happily in this competition," she says.

Minister of information and communication technology Emma Theofelus recently addressed the issue of tribalism in Namibia, a concern that has been increasingly evident in online spaces.

Theofelus acknowledged that incidents of tribal discrimination often surface on social media.

"But I want to be clear that there is no systemic tribalism where a certain tribe is excluded from opportunities or access to resources based on their tribe," she said.

Theofelus warned that allowing tribalism to take root could harm the country's development.

"If we allow tribalism to take root in our society, we will become a failed society like some other African countries where promotion, job opportunities, and access to resources are dependent on one's tribe.

"In Namibia, a child from any background can rise and become whoever they want to be in life," she said.

The minister also highlighted the impact of tribalism on the younger generation, particularly in the digital space.

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"As a ministry our mandate is to promote safer online platforms where our youth can interact without cyberbullying and harassment," she said.

Theofelus said the government aims to combat cyberbullying through the 'Ethical Use of Social Media' campaign, which she said promotes positive online interaction.

Theofelus said the 'My Nationhood and National Pride' programme also addresses tribalism by promoting unity and pride in Namibia's diversity.

"This campaign is not reactive but a well thought out programme that implements targeted initiatives aimed at grooming champions who will strengthen the message of 'One Namibia, One Nation'."

The Namibian uses AI tools to assist with improved quality, accuracy and efficiency, while maintaining editorial oversight and journalistic integrity.
A full bench of the Windhoek High Court has decided not to join the Federal Republic of Germany as a respondent at this stage in a case in which the court is asked to declare the 2021 joint declaration of Germany and Namibia on the 1904-08 Ovaherero and Nama genocide as unlawful.

The court on Tuesday also turned down an application for it to allow Namibian court documents in the matter to be served on Germany in Germany, which is outside the court's jurisdiction.

However, the court ordered that 24 Namibian traditional authorities which are not among the applicants in the case be joined as parties to the matter.

In the case, Landless People's Movement (LPM) leader Bernadus Swartbooi, the Ovaherero Traditional Authority, 10 Nama traditional authorities and the LPM are asking the court to set aside former National Assembly speaker Peter Katjavivi's decision to note the joint declaration in terms of a parliamentary rule.

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The applicants are also asking the court to declare the joint declaration unlawful and to review and set it aside, based on it not having been ratified by the National Assembly, and to declare that the joint declaration is inconsistent with the Constitution, a 2006 National Assembly motion on the genocide, and international law.

In a judgement read by judge Beatrix de Jager, the court noted that the joint declaration agreed to by representatives of Namibia and Germany in June 2021 is not a final declaration.

In the joint declaration, the German government acknowledged its responsibility for events in Namibia from 1904 to 1908, during Germany's colonial rule of the country, and declared that those events constituted a genocide from the current historical perspective.

The German government also agreed to make an amount of 1.1 billion euros (about N$21.9 billion) available to Namibia as development aid to implement projects as part of reconstruction and development projects over a period of 30 years.

The agreed development aid does not constitute the payment of reparations for the genocide that took place in Namibia, Swartbooi and the other applicants in the matter are saying.

Their main application against the speaker, the National Assembly, the president, the Cabinet, the attorney general and now also 24 other traditional authorities is continuing, and has been postponed to 11 March 2026.

Deputy judge president Hannelie Prinsloo and judge Orben Sibeya heard oral arguments in the matter with De Jager in October and earlier in November.

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Uganda has reduced its HIV prevalence to 4.9 percent, down from 18 percent in the 1980s, reflecting one of the most remarkable public health achievements in the region, the Uganda Aids Commission (UAC) announced on Monday.

The data, released ahead of the National HIV and Aids Symposium, highlights sharp declines in new infections, Aids-related deaths, and mother-to-child transmission.

UAC Director General Dr Nelson Musoba said the country is "registering steady, measurable progress" in the fight against HIV.

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Uganda currently has 1.5 million people living with HIV, of whom 1.3 million are on treatment.

New infections have fallen from 94,000 in 2010 to 37,000 in 2024, while AIDS-related deaths have dropped from 54,000 to 20,000 during the same period.

Despite these achievements, women continue to bear the highest burden of HIV, while men show the largest treatment gaps and higher AIDS-related mortality.

Dr Musoba attributed Uganda's progress to the Presidential Fast Track Initiative launched by President Museveni in 2017, which emphasizes engaging men, protecting adolescent girls and young women, accelerating testing and treatment, eliminating mother-to-child transmission, ensuring financial sustainability, and strengthening coordination across sectors.

Uganda's current performance against the global 95-95-95 targets stands at 94-90-97, meaning 94 percent of people living with HIV know their status, 90 percent of those diagnosed are on treatment, and 97 percent of those on treatment have achieved viral suppression.

Mother-to-child transmission continues to decline, with an estimated 4,700 babies born with HIV annually, significantly lower than in previous years.

The National HIV and AIDS Symposium will run from November 26 to 28 at Mbarara University of Science and Technology (MUST). Activities include the 17th Joint AIDS Review, scientific presentations, exhibitions, HIV testing and counselling, Philly Lutaaya Day commemorations, a national dialogue on HIV financing, and community outreach.

MUST Vice Chancellor Prof. Pauline Byakika-Kibwika will serve as the chief guest.

Dr. Musoba invited the public to participate physically or register online and praised President Museveni for his "exemplary leadership," alongside cultural and religious leaders, civil society groups, academia, and development partners for sustaining momentum. He urged leaders to continue addressing myths, stigma, and discrimination surrounding HIV.

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The symposium will precede national World AIDS Day celebrations on December 1 in Kizinda Town Council, Bushenyi District, to be presided over by President Museveni.
Oh, the irony of it! As Government minister Dan Jarvis stands up in Parliament to talk tough on Chinese spying, just three miles down the River Thames, Operation Kowtow is still in full swing as China demands support from Labour for a super embassy which will sit on the site of some of the most sensitive computer cables in the country, warning of 'consequences' if it does not get its way.

Jarvis was addressing the latest Chinese spy scandal which centres around two recruitment 'headhunters'  in reality members of the Chinese Ministry of State Security  trawling online to build relationships and flatter potential recruits.

They have been doing this in the business world for years, but they are now reaching out directly to recruit people working in Parliament.

They do so openly because our politicians' stance towards China is an incoherent, dangerous, damaging mess that is making us a laughing stock.

I am in Washington DC this week to talk about my book, The New Total War, and Americans wonder with sadness and concern what is happening to our once great nation. Labour says it is taking 'necessary measures' to protect the UK. Yet that is exactly what it is not doing.

Let me give you an example. Britain's Foreign Influence Registration Scheme, know as FIRS, came into force last July. It's part of the National Security Act 2023. I was one of the MPs whom civil servants sought out to discuss it. I helped as best I could.

If you work or lobby for a foreign power, you now need to declare it for the first time. If you do not, you face an unlimited fine and two years in the slammer. So far, so good.

However, there is a basic and an advanced level for registration, and Labour is refusing to put China on the enhanced tier because it is scared of offending President Xi Jinping's regime.

Free speech and human rights have long been denounced by President Xi Jinping of China, as have independent journalism and any version of history not approved by the CCP

Currently only Rusia and Iran are on the enhanced tier, and both of those countries' activities are closely monitored. Yet in scale, China is by far the most serious threat in terms of 'influence' operations  as we have seen from these attempts to recruit via consultancy work. This makes a complete mockery of the registration system.

China sometimes uses agents  as appears the case here  but often runs influence operations through the United Front: an arm of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) that seeks to work as the Soviets did, through NGOs, friendship and business groups, etc.

These groups build up networks of useful idiots willing to kowtow to China, from MPs to civil servants, military figures to academics and business people. But they also identify patriotic British citizens who are hostile to China's Communist dictators and whose reputations should be smeared or monitored, as I and others were in the last Parliament.

But why does Whitehall's approach to China remain an incoherent mess? The security services are clear about the threat. MI5 boss Sir Ken McCallum has warned of major China spy plots, while every day, hostile state activity  much of it from China  targets Britain.

Yet because of her disastrous handling of our economy, Chancellor Rachel Reeves  probably soon to be sacked anyway  and Sir Keir Starmer, who may yet follow her, have had to swallow what little pride they have and have gone cap in hand to Beijing to beg for investment.

We are trading our national security for financial crumbs from China's communist masters. Such is the humiliating state that this Government has brought us into  even though the Chinese economic eldorado is a mirage.

First, China is actively weaning itself off imports. It doesn't want open and free trade. It wants to use its economic export power to make other countries dependent on it.

MI5 boss Sir Ken McCallum has warned of major China spy plots while every day, hostile state activity  much of it from China  targets Britain

Second, Chinese investment in the UK represents just 0.2 per cent of foreign investment here, and that is overwhelmingly focused on high technology, somewhere frankly we should not be welcoming the CCP as their spies will simply steal that technology and use it for further information gathering.

Third, jobs created and maintained by Chinese investment before Covid amounted to just 3,000 a year, while our exports made up just 3.3 per cent of our total. This is small beer for such a big country.

The simple reality is that China  like Russia  believes itself in conflict with the Western world.

The CCP has openly stated that it does not want to live in harmony with the West, but to dominate it. Western nations are 'hostile foreign forces', democracy a 'false ideological trend'. Free speech and human rights have long been denounced by Xi Jinping, as have independent journalism and any version of history not approved by the CCP.

No one is saying that we shouldn't trade or interact with China. But we need to do much more to protect ourselves.

We need to stand up for our own interests and we must reduce our potential future dependency on that nation.

But let us be under no illusion. China's spying brazenness now is due to our weakness  and no amount of grandstanding from a Government minister can hide that simple, humiliating fact.

We need coherence  we need to be robust. We need to put Britain first.
The people of Northern Ireland, the British Army and the Royal Ulster Constabulary, including their successors, paid a terrible price during the Provisional IRA (PIRA) terrorist campaign that lasted for over 30 years in terms of death, injury and mental trauma.

As if that was not enough, our own Government seems determined to extend their suffering by adopting policies that allow soldiers and policemen to be pursued in law courts  mostly at the behest of lawyers retained by former terrorists and their families.

In contrast, many terrorists were given comfort letters that prevent them from being prosecuted for their terrible crimes following the 1998 Good Friday Agreement.

By exonerating terrorists but not doing the same for soldiers or policemen, I and many Northern Ireland veterans believe that the politicians responsible for this injustice have become complicit with evil.

Struggling

Its of little surprise that dozens of military demonstrators turned out in Westminster last night to protest against the return of the Troubles Bill to the House of Commons.

Since 1660, it has been the constitutional position of the UK that the Army is subordinate to the civil power. But with this relationship comes a political responsibility to look after the military  and of course the Army and their political leaders must trust one another.

As former heads of the Armed Forces rightly said in an open letter published on Armistice Day: Trust is a cornerstone of military effectiveness. That trust simply does not exist today.

No wonder the Army has difficulty recruiting soldiers, as many have become fearful of criminal action as a result of split-second decisions taken on the battlefield.

Successive governments have stood by silently while Sinn Fein, the PIRA and their supporters attempt to shift blame for the atrocities that occurred in Northern Ireland onto the Army, police and the security agencies  but never the perpetrators themselves

On the first day of the Iranian Embassy Siege, as Commanding Officer of 22 SAS Regiment, and therefore the military commander on the ground, I received a personal message from Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher telling me that, in the event of a military assault being required to end the siege, she  not the soldiers  would take the blame if the operation went wrong.

The message was passed to me by the Home Secretary Willie Whitelaw, who had won a Military Cross with the Guards Armoured Brigade in the Second World War.

This assurance served greatly to boost the morale of the soldiers who were about to risk their lives to save others. For, from that moment, we all knew we were in the hands of good, principled people who understood the complexities and extreme dangers of war.

I am sure Clement Attlee, who underpinned his socialist ideals with patriotism, and who had served with gallantry in the First World War, would have given similar assurances as PM.

In 1994, I commanded a multinational UN force in Bosnia whose mission was to deliver humanitarian aid to 2.7 million Serbs, Croats and Muslims caught up in that terrible three-sided civil war.

Despite being shot at and, sadly, on occasions killed, few of the 23,000 young peacekeepers under my command lost their determination to accomplish the mission.

They believed passionately in what they were doing and they knew that I shared their vision. On one occasion, a Danish colonel made an unfortunate remark to the media that was taken out of context and the UN headquarters in New York demanded that I fire him.

General Sir Michael Rose (left, pointing) in Bosnia in 1997, when he commanded a multinational UN force whose mission was to deliver humanitarian aid to 2.7 million Serbs, Croats and Muslims caught up in that terrible three-sided civil war

I refused to do so because he was doing an excellent job in command of the Danish contingent.

As a result, everyone in the peacekeeping force was aware that I made decisions based on what was morally right, not on political expediency  and, importantly, that I would always back them for putting their lives on the line every day.

Despair

One way to engage their political backing is to hold politicians personally accountable for what happens. I took over as Director of Special Forces shortly after the SAS had killed three Provisional IRA terrorists in Gibraltar.

It was an action that saved many lives as the terrorists intention had been to explode a bomb in a crowded street using radio-controlled detonation.

Yet Michael Hucker, the QC who had been retained to represent the soldiers, was in despair when I arrived in his office.

The Foreign Office and Ministry of Defence had refused to give him access to the relevant intelligence that would show that the SAS soldiers had acted in accordance with the law. Without this evidence, it is certain they would have gone to prison for their actions.

At a meeting between myself and the Foreign Secretary, Sir Geoffrey Howe, arranged through back channels, I reminded him that his name was on the paper authorising the operation and that if the soldiers were found guilty of unlawful killing, he would likely go down with them.

The next day I received a telephone call from the person who had produced the key intelligence, and the consequent verdict by the coroner was rightly one of lawful killing.

Since then, successive governments have stood by silently while the post-facto rewriting of history by Sinn Fein, PIRA and their supporters, attempts to shift blame for the atrocities that occurred in Northern Ireland onto the Army, police and the security agencies  but never the perpetrators themselves.

General Sir Michael Rose met the then foreign secretary Sir Geoffrey Howe (pictured with Margaret Thatcher) to discuss soldiers being found guilty of unlawful killing

This distortion has led to British soldiers, including members of the SAS, being hauled into the dock and many of PIRAs victims being denied justice.

Thankfully, a High Court civil case against Gerry Adams is due to start in March when lawyers hope to reveal him for what PIRAs victims believe he truly is.

A democratic state obviously depends on the fair, impartial application of justice, regardless of politics. And anyone who commits a crime, of course, must face the law.

Violence

However, all cases involving the use of force by soldiers in Northern Ireland were fully investigated at the time and only if there is clear new evidence should these cases be reopened.

Nor can there ever be any moral equivalence between PIRA, whose purpose was to bring down the state by violence, and soldiers who open fire on armed PIRA terrorists intent on murder.

Simply put, it is wrong to prosecute these soldiers even if, in the heat of the moment, they felt unable to issue a verbal warning.

Northern Ireland veterans are unlikely to care a jot about politicians personally, but they do care greatly for this nation and they expect all politicians to stand up for what they fought for: democracy, freedom and justice for all.
Many young adults have a wishlist of what they'd like to achieve by the time they turn 30and for Jade Mandongwe, it was getting a facelift.

The Manchester lawyer, who also works as a model, is one of the thousands of Britons who have jetted to Turkey for plastic surgery, revealing that she spent around 50,000 on a plethora of procedures.

But what makes Ms Madongwe's case unique is that she was only 28 when she went under the knife, which is roughly half the age of the typical facelift patient.

She said: 'It was worth every penny.

'Ive always loved beauty and Im very conscious about how I look.

'This isnt about insecurity, its about looking in the mirror and seeing the version of myself that I imagine inside.'

As well as having a mid-faceliftwhen the muscle and skin is cut and stretched from the jawline to the templesshe also had a temporal brow lift and fox-eye lift, plus a breast lift with implants, and 'Turkey teeth'.

The first part of the surgery, which is also known as a cheek lift, lifts the sagging in the mid-cheek area to tighten the skin from the upper mouth to eye area.

Jade Mandongwe before and after her facelift which was part of a 50,000 haul of Turkish plastic surgery

Jade Mandongwe, [pictured before the surgery] spent 50,000 on plastic surgery, including a facelift when she was just 28

The temporal brow lift saw surgeons lift the outer part of her eyebrow and forehead through a small incision hidden within the hairline.

She said: 'I am happy with the result. I feel like myself - just the best version of who I've always been.'

The model decided to share pictures of her journey at each stage of the process to be transparent and highlight the pressures around beauty standards.

'There's a lot of pressure to be perfect. I wanted to remind people that beauty also comes with courage and vulnerability,' she said.

'This kind of transformation demands respect for the process. It's a delicate procedure and should never be taken lightly.

'I studied, researched and made sure I was emotionally and physically ready for it. I wanted to be completely transparent.

'People often see the final result, but often forget it involves a long recovery, discomfort and patience.

'I wanted to show that it's not easy, but it's worth it when done for the right reasons. It was a life-changing experiencenot just physically, but emotionally, too.'

Ms Mandongwe with the surgical markings on her face before ahead of the procedure

Ms Mandongwe while recovering from the surgery

Ms Mandongwe now after recovering from the surgery

She joins an increasingly large group of people under 50 going under the knife to get the 'snatched' look, with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons (BAAPS) reporting an eight per cent increase in facelifts over the past year within the UK.

But is it worth paying the hefty sum to get a face lift when arguably you're still in your prime?

Leading British plastic surgeon Dr Marc Pacifico, the former president of BAAPS, told the Daily Mail it 'would be very unusual' to need one 'so young [unless] there was an underlying connective tissue disorder or significant facial differences.'

He said: 'My strong advice is - do not have a facelift under 30.'

Another surgeon, Dr Kshem Yapa, explained that he once treated a 38-year-old woman who was left with extreme amounts of loose skin after weight loss.

He said: 'She had significant facial laxity in her 30s, so she had heavy neck, jowls and folds.

'In that context the fact she's in her 30s shouldn't preclude her from having face-lift surgery.

'When it comes to facelift surgery, I think it's not that productive to think about age itself but rather facial laxity.'

Facial laxity is a loss of skin firmness and elasticity which results in visible sagging, drooping and wrinkles.

'I think it is possible someone in their 30s could benefit from a facelift if they've had significant weight loss and have developed facial laxity.

'The majority of people won't have developed laxity sufficiently to warrant this surgery until their 40s, 50s and 60s.'
A growing number of restaurants are catering to customers on Ozempic by offering pint-sized portions.

Daily Mail recently dined at Clinton Hall in Midtown Manhattan to try its Teeny Weeny Mini Meal designed for those on GLP-1 medications, which decrease appetite.

The miniature burger dish, which is more like the size of a slider than a full-size burger, comes served with just a shot glass of a few fries and a syringe of ketchup.

The restaurant states on its website 'get a shot of fun... no prescription needed.'

The $8 meal deal also comes served with the choice of a mini beer, mini martini or weeny wine.

Clinton Hall owner Aristotle Hatzigeorgiou told Daily Mail that he got the idea to invent the Ozempic meal after observing the diminished appetites of his friends on weight-loss drugs.

He said: 'I started noticing that when I'd go out to dinner with friends, some of them would take one bite of pasta or chicken parmesan, have a sip of wine, and then be done. I saw that happen multiple times within a month.

'I realized that for people whose appetites have changed, especially in group settings, we needed an option they could enjoy without wasting food.

Daily Mail recently dined at Clinton Hall in Midtown Manhattan to try its 'Teeny-Weeny Mini Meal' designed for those with lighter appetites. Pictured above is the mini meal (right) and Clinton Hall's normal burger offering

Clinton Hall serves the meal, which is more like the size of a slider than a full-size burger, with a shot glass of fries and a syringe of ketchup

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'I also grew up in an era where wasting food was a big deal, so the environmental aspect played into it. That's really where the idea started.'

GLP1 drugs like semaglutide (sold as Ozempic, Wegovy, or oral Rybelsus) or liraglutide (under the brand names Victoza or Saxenda) can reduce appetite substantially and clinical studies show they can cut daily food intake by about 20 to 25 percent.

In one 2017 trial, semaglutide reduced participants intake by 24 percent in total calories eaten during meals.

Clinton Hall owner Aristotle Hatzigeorgiou told Daily Mail that he got the idea to invent the Ozempic meal after observing the diminished appetites of his own friends on weight-loss drugs

And Liraglutide has also been shown to lower hunger and boost feelings of fullness. In lab-based studies, it reduced energy intake by 12 to 27 percent in test meals versus placebo.

Beyond raw calorie reduction, GLP1 agonists shift eating behavior: users report less emotional or external-cue eating, better recognition of physiological hunger cues, and reduced desire for high-fat or sweet foods.

Mechanistically, these drugs act both on the gut (slowing stomach emptying) and the brain (activating satiety centers), helping people feel full sooner and eat less overall.

Upscale Italian restaurant Tucci in New York's NoHo neighborhood is another spot that has started offering Ozempic-sized plates at reduced rates.

Like Hatzigeorgiou, restauranteur Max Tucci said he has noticed a demand for smaller portion sizes with the rise of weight loss drugs.

His Ozempic menu, which is available on request, comprises a single piece of arancini topped with caviar priced at $12 and a single meatball cooked in Tucci's famed Calabrian chili marinara sauce for $10.

Clinton Hall's 'Teeny-Weeny Mini Meal' launched earlier this year

Upscale Italian restaurant Tucci in New York's NoHo neighborhood is another spot which has started offering Ozempic-sized plates (forward right) at reduced rates

Compared with the regular versions of each dish, these Ozempic plates are about one-third the size and price, yet can still be enjoyed as full meals without any sense of shame of waste.

Hatzigeorgiou told this website that from his insights in the food business, he definitely thinks weight loss shots are reshaping how Americans eat.

He said: 'People are much more health-conscious now. I go to the gym daily and see younger generations really focused on fitness and understanding their bodies.

'Everyone is more aware of how much they eat and what they eat.'

He encouraged other restaurants to follow suit with Ozempic-style meals, noting that along with helping keep waistlines in check, it can help with the problem of food waste.

GLP1 drugs are seeing a dramatic surge in use across the US, reshaping both medical practice and the food industry.

According to data from medical firm Epocrates, new GLP1 prescriptions in February 2024 rose 133 percent for diabetes and 584 percent for obesity compared to two years earlier.

On the economic side, the US GLP1 market has ballooned into the tens of billions.

It was valued at about $39.6 billion in 2024 and is projected to exceed $120 billion by 2030.

While restaurants are adjusting to changing tastes, Hatzigeorgiou said maybe portion sizes are merely returning to what they used to be before America's obesity crisis.

He added: 'I had one customer who came in and looked at the time Ozempic burger and said that there was nothing wrong with it and this is how meals used to look.

'That really made me laugh!'
She shared the signs that may reveal if spirits reside within a home

The ability to observe and even communicate with ghosts, spirits and the supernatural world has always come naturally to Australian spiritual healer and medium, Caterina Ligato.

So when the renowned co-host of The Australian Ghost Whisperer podcast and YouTube recently visited a haunted guest house, she instantly sensed it was alive with spiritual happenings.

Urged on by the strong presence she felt, Caterina was prompted to take a photo of one of the rooms. On first glance, it revealed nothing unusual.

But when she later reviewed the image with her co-host James Jennings, they zoomed in and immediately spotted something unsettling: a close-up of the mirror revealed what appeared to be a 'demonic apparition'.

It's all par for the course for Sydney-based Caterina, who told Daily Mail she's been communicating with the spirit world ever since childhood.

Recalling her psychic abilities from as young as four, Caterina says she has 'been able to communicate with people from the spirit world' ever since.

'I don't know how I figured it out, but I just had this inner knowing they were from the spirit world.

'I knew I was speaking to people who weren't in physical reality - just the way they looked and the way they came through,' she explained.

After being urged by an eerie voice to take a picture of a particular room in the guest house, Caterina initially noticed nothing strange about the photo...

... but when the image was zoomed in, on the mirror Caterina and James saw that it revealed what appeared to be a 'demonic apparition'

'As I got older, people started coming and asking for my help. Eventually, it became a full-time career and I've been doing this for the last 30 years.'

No two days are the same in Caterina's line of work, but one thing she's regularly asked to do is assess and clear haunted houses.

Surprisingly, she believes around '90 per cent of homes have some sort of spirit or entity'.

'Spirits and lost souls truly are everywhere,' Caterina says. 'Many souls die and are afraid - they just linger in the physical world. So there's often a spirit in people's homes.'

Caterina notes that a house's likelihood of being haunted has little to do with appearance or age, although it's far more common in older homes, which 'have a lot more history'.

'Overall, it's quite simple for a spirit to enter a premises,' she explains. 'They can follow you home. Or you might host a party and someone brings it in.'

If you suspect an otherworldly presence has taken up residence in your home, Caterina says there are always subtle clues.

'Some houses will have a spot that's always chilly, even with the heaters on,' she notes.

The Australian Ghost Whisperer podcast and YouTube series co-hosts Caterina Ligato and James Jennings recently visited a ghost house that exhibited signs of paranormal activity

Caterina Ligato is a renowned Australian medium and spiritual healer who is often called upon to clear houses of spiritual energy

'You may even feel uncomfortable when walking into a particular area of the house.'

Sometimes, she says, the signs are much more overt, such as 'lights switching off and on, the sound of footsteps, cupboards left open or items going missing for no reason'.

She claims emotional instability within a home can occasionally also be caused by spiritual activity.

'You might feel drained and extra emotional every time you're home,' she explains. 'Or when you wake up in the morning, you might feel the strong urge to get out of there.'

'Confusion or even an increase in arguments for no reason within a family can also occur.

'Even children not sleeping well because they saw something can often be a sign of a presence,' Caterina noted. 'Children are very fresh from the spirit world, so their psychic abilities are strong when young - if they sense something, they're usually spot on.'

If you're among the Aussies trying to crack the tough housing market, Caterina recommends checking the spiritual energy of a home during open inspections, alongside pest and building reports.

'When you inspect a house, just stand there quietly for a while,' she suggests.

Caterina and her journalist co-host James regularly discuss paranormal activity and act as real-life ghost busters in their popular video and podcast series

'If you can, close your eyes and get a feel for the place. Ask yourself, "Does this feel right for me? Do I feel connected to this?"'

'If you start thinking, "No, I'm not sure" - walk away. It usually leads to trouble.'

However, Caterina says if you really love a house - even if there's likely spiritual activity in it - there are ways to work around it by engaging a spiritual healer to perform a house clearing.

Caterina says it's not always worrying to buy or own a house with spiritual inhabitants. But without a clearing, troubling issues may surface over time, with the most common effect being persistent fatigue.

'Spirits roaming freely need a battery source, so to speak. They seek out energy and often absorb people's energy during sleep.

'That's why so many people say, no matter how much sleep they get, they wake up exhausted. Something in the house is draining them.'

'I always recommend having your home spiritually cleaned, especially after moving in.

'Once it's cleared, the spirits are sent back into the spirit world. Your home then also has a higher frequency, so you're less likely to attract more spirits.'

If you're considering buying a property, Caterina advised taking a moment to try and tune into the house's 'spiritual energy' during the open home inspection (Picture: stock image)

However, Caterina warns there are some cases where she'd strongly advise against buying or living in a home with overwhelming spiritual inhabitation.

In extreme situations, she says, the signs are unmistakable, such as 'a real energy of aggression, coldness, even anger.'

'These are the homes with banging noises, cupboards slamming shut, things falling off walls.

'Some residents may even feel pinned down in bed or afraid to sleep.

'There's no doubt what's happening in these homes - it can really freak people out. It's right out of a horror movie.'

In these cases, her advice is simple: if you're thinking of buying, walk away. If you're already living there, try to move out as soon as possible.

'I've come across some houses so heavily infested with demonic presences that it's seeped through the walls and floors. Sometimes I just think the house should be burned down - but that's in the most extreme cases.

'In homes where activity cannot be cleared because it's been there a long time, I always suggest you do your best to get out.'
Daily Mail journalists select and curate the products that feature on our site. If you make a purchase via links on this page we will earn commission - learn more

Aldi is bringing back its Pilates Reformer Machine after selling out in minutes earlier this year.

The budget supermarket caused a frenzy in May by putting the piece of gym equipment - which usually costs upwards of 2,000 - on sale for less than 150 - at stores across the UK.

Queues of fitness enthusiasts lined up to get their hands on a bed - with fights even breaking out in the middle aisle of some stores.

The bed will be back as a Specialbuy from November 30, with Aldi limiting the stock to just one machine per customer.

After the bed sold out in May, hundreds of people took to TikTok to share their thoughts with Pilates lovers praising its price but saying it's smaller and less durable than more expensive models. However, some instructors warned about the safety of the model.

Pilates expert Kayleigh Jayne has partnered with Aldi to give some tips on how to use the machine for an at-home workout.

This time round however, Alid has teamed up with Pilates instructor and influencer Kayleigh Jayne.

'Aldi's Reformer Pilates Machine is such a versatile piece of equipment  it can be adapted for beginners or advanced users, and it's amazing for building core strength while being gentle on the joints, making Reformer accessible without compromising on price,' she said.

The exercise, which has surged in popularity in the last 10 years, is widely touted as one of the best movements for your body and has a cult following with celebrities including Jennifer Aniston, Margot Robbie and Hailey Bieber.

But those wanting to indulge in the practice will pay an average of 35 a class - making it an extremely expensive hobby.

Instructors also recommend a person practices three time a week - meaning people can spend hundreds of pounds a month on the practice.

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From rock stars to national treasures and even the internets favourite nan, 2025 has turned out a surprisingly entertaining batch of autobiographies. Think fewer boring moralistic life lessons and more good stories, laugh-out-loud moments and gasp-inducing revelations.

Whether you want backstage chaos, behind-the-scenes gossip or a touching, inspiring story of growth, this years offerings deliver. Here are the ten memoirs that'll truly earn their place on your bedside table.

Nobody's Girl by Virginia Roberts Giuffre This frank and powerful memoir was published shortly after the death of Virginia Roberts Giuffre, who became the most outspoken victim of Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell before taking her own life earlier this year. She charts her upbringing, the years of abuse and the long, exhausting fight to be heard, as well as the impact it had on her life. It's a sobering, compelling account of a woman who was determined to reclaim her story. Shop

When Gavin Met Stacey and Everything in Between by James Corden and Ruth Jones A warm, funny behind-the-scenes look at how Gavin & Stacey grew from a tiny BBC Three gamble into a genuine national treasure. James Corden and Ruth Jones share how they met, dreamed up Nessa, Smithy and the rest of the gang, and navigated the shows sudden success  as well as the subsequent fractures to their friendships. A nostalgic treat for anyone who still cant resist a rewatch. Shop

Last Rites by Ozzy Osbourne and Chris Ayres At once brutally honest and surprisingly tender, this final memoir from rocks wildest icon charts Ozzys improbable journey from Aston factory lad to heavy metal legend. He recalls wild nights, raw addictions, his deep love for wife Sharon and his dedication to his craft, even in the days leading up to his passing. A must-read for every rock fan. Shop

A Mind of My Own by Kathy Burke Funny, straight-talking and candid, this memoir by Kathy Burke traces her path from an Islington childhood to becoming one of Britains most loved and level-headed entertainers. She reflects on finding her footing at the Anna Scher Theatre, the roles that made her a household name, and the unapologetic honesty thats defined her ever since. Warm, wise and full of the actress's signature wit. Shop

Finding My Way by Malala Yousafzai A candid and unexpectedly funny memoir from Malala Yousafzai, charting the years after the Taliban attack that made her a global symbol, and the far more ordinary, messy journey of working out who she is beyond the headlines. She writes about friendship, first love, academic wobblers, bad trips and the pressure of being seen as a role model while still figuring life out. It's reminder that university is chaotic for everyone  even Malala. Shop

We Did Ok, Kid by Anthony Hopkins This reflective memoir from Sir Anthony Hopkins charts his journey from a tough upbringing in Port Talbot to one of the most celebrated careers in film and theatre. He looks back at the moment Hamlet changed everything, the milestones that shaped him  from Oliviers mentorship to The Silence of the Lambs  and the long road to sobriety that redefined his life. It's honest, thoughtful and surprisingly tender. Shop

Someone Like Me by Penny Lancaster Penny Lancaster looks back on the experiences that shaped her, from a supportive childhood and life with Rod Stewart to the tougher chapters shes rarely spoken about  school bullying, dyslexia, a sexual assault and IVF. She also writes about the work that now matters most to her as a Special Constable focused on womens safety. A clear, unshowy account of a life thats had more grit than many realise. Shop

Hostage by Eli Sharabi A stark, gripping memoir from Eli Sharabi, the first released Israeli hostage to tell his story. He recounts the 491 days he spent in Gaza after being taken from his home on 7 October 2023, describing the hunger, fear and psychological pressure of captivity  and the resilience that kept him alive. It's a harrowing read and an unflinching record of events he is determined the world doesnt forget. Shop

When the Going Was Good by Graydon Carter Graydon Carter's entertaining memoir charts his rise from a hungry young Canadian in New York to the editor who turned Vanity Fair into the cultural powerhouse of its era. He looks back on founding Spy, navigating Conde Nast, and assembling a legendary roster of writers and photographers  with plenty of insider gossip along the way. Witty, nostalgic and full of great stories, its a front-row seat to the golden age of glossy magazines. Shop

Jess and Norma by Jessica Asquith and Norma Burton A funny, affectionate memoir from social media duo Jess and her Nan, Norma, looking back at the moments that shaped their much-loved bond. Alongside family stories and early memories, there are plenty of Nans trademark one-liners on everything from dating to self-care. A cosy, good-humoured read for anyone whos ever smiled at their videos. Shop

To get more of what you love from your favourite Sunday supplement, follow us on Instagram (@youmagazine), X (@YOUMagSocial) and TikTok (@you_magazine).
President Museveni has brought a smile on the faces of the people of Buyende after promising to make their roads and health facilities better than they are.

Speaking during his campaign rally at Kagulu Primary School grounds, the NRM presidential candidate said the best is coming for the people of Buyende.

"There is Mbulamuti-Kamuli- Bukungu road which is 127km and will now be done because we have got the money for it,"Museveni said.

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"For the Kamuli-Kigulu-Ilyingo road, we have put in it in the plan(NDP IV)."

The Mbulamuti-Kamuli-Bukungu road which connects key towns and aims to improve transport and economic activity in the Busoga sub-region and is divided into two segments--the 65km Jinja-Mbulamuti-Kamuli section and the 64km Kamuli-Bukungu section.

Parliament last month okayed the borrowing of shs 1.084 trillion (230.4 million) from Citi Bank for the construction of the long-awaited road.

Health facilities

During the rally, President Museveni threw the gathering into frenzy when he listed a number of health centres that are lined up for elevation by government in the forthcoming term.

He said government will upgrade Kagulu health centre II in Kagulu Sub-County, Nkoone health centre II in Irundu Sub-County and Ngandho health centre II in Ngandho sub-county to health centres IIIs.

"We are also going to construct new health centre IIIs in Gumpi, Buyanja and Kidera sub-counties," he said.

According to Museveni, these will add onto the two health centre IVs, one in each of Budiope West and Budiope East Constituencies.

The Gains to Protect

Starting with peace as the springboard, Museveni listed a number of achievements for the NRM government in the past 40 years that he said ought to be protected by the population.

"NRM is a serious movement and the young members should know that and copy our culture .We are a movement of doers and of determined people and because of that, in the last 40 years we have been able to put several bricks on the house of Uganda," he said.

"You heard how people run from Teso to here because of insecurity by rebels, cattle rustlers and groups supported by foreigners. NRM has been able to defeat all those because of our philosophy of believing in politics of interests and not identity. We don't look at who you are but what you do. You need to find out why peace had eluded all other governments and why peace is not attainable in many countries in Africa and in the world. It will help you know the value of NRM."

In terms of education, the NRM presidential candidate said Buyende's 73 parishes and 14 sub counties currently have 92 government primary schools and six government secondary schools

He however expressed concern that only 37 parishes are hosting at least one government primary schools while 36 parishes are still lacking, which he attributed to poor planning.

Museveni however reaffirmed government's commitment to have a primary school in every parish and a secondary school in every sub county.

In the water sector, he said out of the 546 rural villages in Buyende, 300 have access to a safe water source, representing coverage of 54.9%.

He said 72 boreholes have been drilled, 15 rehabilitated sources and 5 piped water systems constructed while a solar-powered water system has been put in place and is operational in Magogo village.

"We also completed the construction of Kasaikye and Kabugudho piped Water supply schemes which are awaiting commissioning," he said.

Museveni also mentioned the Buyende Town Council Piped Water Supply and Sanitation System serving 26,047 people, Irundu Town Piped Water Supply and Sanitation System serving 15,682 people, Bukungu Landing Site Water Supply System serving 4,200 people, and Lyingo Landing Site Water Supply System serving 1,314 people which have also been constructed.

He mentioned drilling of 12 new boreholes, one piped water system, and rehabilitation of a borehole which works, he said are still ongoing.

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Speaking during the same rally, the First Lady, Janet Museveni urged Ugandans to vote for President Museveni and all NRM flag bearers to preserve the peace and all the achievements in the last 40 years.

"Uganda suffered for a long time but by God's grace NRM government brought peace and unity and now is the responsibly of all Ugandans to protect this peace and unity for an opportunity to go forward that our children may have freedom to walk in this land to know there is peace and freedom for every family and person in Uganda. That's why I remind you that when voting day comes, every Ugandan of voting age goes and votes President Museveni and NRM leaders," Mrs Museveni said.

The first NRM vice chairman, Al-Hajji Moses Kigongo called for unity among NRM members.

"What has made us last long in power is the discipline we go from the bush. We must keep it and behave well as leaders because we are the example. We must be disciplined. In NRM, we loved each other and we were united . I ask my fellow leaders to keep this spirit."
A heartbroken girlfriend has detailed the moment she discovered her boyfriend was living a double life with another woman after scrolling through social media - and his mum knew all along but kept it a secret from her.

Sharing her story with Australian podcast everybody has a secret, hosted by Ruby Hall, Annabelle Lee and Charlotte White, Sarah said she has been keeping her relationship with David under wraps for 10 years - despite knowing he cheated on her.

The 'young and ambitious' couple began dating in their early 20s. Just months into their 'love bubble', Sarah was offered a job interstate so they tried long distance.

'We made it work, I would fly back and forth, and we were always on the phone,' Sarah explained.

'Then David got an opportunity to move overseas, which was a huge career moment for him. We still stayed in contact constantly with calls, texts, love notes and made one-day plans.

'I kept telling myself, 'love like this was rare and worth holding on to'. But it got really difficult. COVID happened and we didn't see each other for two-and-a-half years.'

The pair were four years into their relationship when Sarah discovered David had a secret girlfriend named Fiona.

'I stumbled across her social media by complete accident through a tagged photo. Her profile revealed more pictures of them kissing in public and posing with her family,' Sarah recalled.

Sarah shared her story with Australian podcast everybody has a secret, hosted by Ruby Hall (left), Annabelle Lee (bottom right) and Charlotte White (top right)

'I continued scrolling to find two years' worth of evidence, photo after photo for everyone to see.

'David had been living a double life.'

Furious, she confronted David over the phone.

'He admitted it. He said "it just sort of happened" and that he didn't know how to stop it. But he added, "Not to worry, as it wasn't serious, you are the real thing, Sarah",' she explained.

'My world collapsed. I couldn't eat, I was a wreck, I don't know what hurt more, the betrayal or how easily the lies just slipped out of his mouth?'

Months later, he returned home for the holidays and begged to see her.

'I caved,' she said.

'My friends tried to convince me not to, but I didn't listen. He was apologetic and convinced me that he would end it with her.'

Sarah said she didn't trust him so she decided to 'cut out the middleman' by messaging the other woman directly.

'She was warm and calm and had no idea about me,' she said.

'Turns out he'd been playing both of us with the same promises the entire time. He never actually ended it with her.'

But the biggest betrayal was finding out David's mum knew about him dating both women at the same time.

'Get this, his mother back home knew the entire time as well and kept it from me because I would (still) see her regularly,' Sarah said.

'David once again swore it was finally over and that he would go to therapy.

'I should have walked away then, but I didn't.'

The heartbroken girlfriend discovered her boyfriend was living a double life with another woman after scrolling through social media (stock image)

For nearly 10 years, Sarah said had been with David - despite everything that's happened.

'He's a secret to everyone,' she said.

'This all happened a while ago, so since then we've been together in secret.'

David is set to return home for good, so he wants to tell all their family and friends about their 10-year relationship.

'I don't know what to do,' Sarah said.

'He's hurt me deeply, but he still feels like my person. Do I walk away from a love I've clung to for nearly a decade?'

The video has been viewed more than 40,000 times on Instagram - with many urging Sarah to walk away from the relationship.

'He did it once, he will do it again,' one suggested.

'You've wasted enough of your good years on this one. Don't waste another second. This isn't love and he doesn't respect you,' another shared.

'The length of a relationship does not equate to the quality of it. Walk away before you end up not forgiving yourself for ignoring your needs and happiness. Men like this don't change, he is disrespecting you, your health, time and emotions,' one said.

'Run, run away! All that time wasted on one person! That one person that isn't you,' another added.
HGTV star Alison Victoria has candidly revealed that her grandmother has passed away.

The Sin City Rehab host, 44, took to Instagram with a carousel of snapshots throughout the years before detailing the devastating loss.

'My sweet Yiayiamoo. You were my first best friend and my safest place in this world,' she began.

'Being with you always felt like home and every meal you made, every old movie we watched, every arm tickle and "I love you" is a part of me now.

'Up until your very last breath you were the strongest woman I've ever known and I promise to always and forever keep your memory alive.'

She concluded: 'Forever your Kouklamou. I love you eternally.'

Her post was flooded with support from fellow TV stars, including Jasmine Roth who wrote: 'Such beautiful photos  you look so much alike! Sending lots of love.'

'I'm so deeply sorry for your loss, Alison,' added Jenny Marrs.

HGTV star Alison Victoria has candidly revealed that her grandmother has passed away

The Sin City Rehab host, 44, took to Instagram with a carousel of snapshots throughout the years before detailing the devastating loss

'My sweet Yiayiamoo. You were my first best friend and my safest place in this world,' she began

'So very sorry Alison. My heart breaks for you,' shared Jenny's husband and Fixer to Fabulous co-star, Dave Marrs.

Earlier this month, an emotional Alison also confronted hateful backlash from viewers as she declared 'these are humans that you hurt.'

She appeared emotional as she opened up to her boyfriend Brandt about being crushed by a newspaper article.

Victoria explained that the article had included mean comments from viewers taken from a Reddit thread years before which branded her 'obnoxious' and 'consistently angry.'

Voicing her upset over the backlash, she turned to her partner and said: 'People write bad s***, I see it all the time.

'I don't know if that I'm just more sensitive to it right now just 'cuz of where I'm at, starting fresh in Vegas and trying to get new clients.'

She continued: 'When you sit there and you go these people don't know me yet they're writing something about me that could seriously affect the trajectory of my career that I've worked so hard to build.'

Offering words of support, Brandt turned to his girlfriend sand said: 'I'm so sorry that it happened because I can tell that it hurts.

'Being with you always felt like home and every meal you made, every old movie we watched, every arm tickle and "I love you" is a part of me now,' she shared

She concluded: 'Forever your Kouklamou. I love you eternally'

Her post was flooded with support from fellow TV stars

Earlier this month, an emotional Alison also confronted hateful backlash from viewers as she declared 'these are humans that you hurt'

'I know how hard it is to get to where you're at. I see how hard it is to stay where you're at and this writer doesn't see any of that.'

'I get it, it's part of the business but these are humans that you mess with and these are humans that you hurt,' a downcast Victoria continued.

Victoria has been in a relationship with her other half for three years.

The couple began their romance as friends after meeting at a mental health retreat.

'I do believe that is the secret to a long-lasting partnership is a friendship first because that's where really where it grew from,' she said.

Sin City Rehab premiered in September. The show follows the interior designer as she returns to Las Vegas.

'She's betting on lofty rewards, taking on multi-million-dollar projects and risky flips as she looks to expand her successful design business,' the show's official synopsis reads.

Victoria previously fronted Windy City Rehab, which followed her home renovation projects in Chicago, for five seasons between 2019 and 2023.
The joint appearance marked their first time traveling with each other

First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance arrived at Camp Lejune

First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance looked ready to embrace the Fall weather as they arrived at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to visit service members and their families ahead of Thanksgiving.

The appearance marks the first time that they have traveled together for a joint visit without their husbands, Donald Trump and JD Vance, and are set to participate in various engagements and deliver remarks from an aircraft hangar, according to ABC11.

On Wednesday afternoon, the two disembarked from their aircraft to the North Carolina wind, with Melania, 55, dressed down in a pair of brown leather pants and a matching safari jacket, while Usha, 39, opted for a burgundy-colored, turtleneck dress with matching suede heels.

Melania's jacket appeared to be designed by Blaze Milano, featuring various pockets of different sizes and tortoise-shell button detailing.

The jacket is currently on sale for $950 on Net-a-Porter, but was originally priced at $1,900.

She paired the look with a pair of chestnut-colored, heeled Christian Louboutin booties that included buckle detailing on the front.

The heels are no longer available for sale.

The First Lady tied everything together with a pair of brown aviator-style sunglasses and light-pink painted nails.

Melania's jacket appeared to be designed by Blaze Milano, featuring various pockets of different sizes and tortoise-shell button detailing

First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance looked ready to embrace the Fall weather as they arrived to Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to visit service members and their families ahead of Thanksgiving

On Wednesday afternoon, the two disembarked from their aircraft, with Melania dressed down in a pair of brown leather pants and a matching safari jacket, while Usha opted for a burgundy-colored, turtleneck dress with matching suede heels

Usha, on the other hand, opted for a figure-hugging, long-sleeve turtleneck dress in a warm burgundy color.

The dress, which is currently for sale at Ralph Lauren for $145, featured a long, draping tie-belt at the waist.

The Second Lady topped off the look with a pair of suede burgundy heels, black Ray-Ban sunglasses, and a pair of statement earrings.

According to the First Lady's office, the two will 'show appreciation for those who serve this holiday season' while at Camp Lejune.

It's unclear what Melania and Usha's relationship is like behind the scenes, but they have made some appearances together for various occasions, like Mother's Day.

Usha appeared with her husband at a celebration for military mothers that was hosted by Melania this Spring, according to Hola! Magazine.

Of course, President Trump was also in attendance.

Their Wednesday appearance comes just one day after The First Lady joined President Donald Trump in hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for an ornate dinner in the East Room Tuesday night.

Melania's jacket appeared to be designed by Blaze Milano, featuring various pockets of different sizes and tortoise-shell button detailing

The Second Lady topped off the look with a pair of suede burgundy heels, black Ray-Ban sunglasses, and a pair of statement earrings

The dress, which is currently for sale at Ralph Lauren for $145, featured a long, draping tie-belt at the waist

It's unclear what Melania and Usha's relationship is like behind the scenes, but they have made some appearances together for various occasions, like Mother's Day

Melania wore a strapless emerald dress to match Saudi Arabia's flag, as her husband announced that Saudi Arabia would be elevated to 'major non-NATO ally' and that a strategic defense compact had been signed.

He also lauded the crown prince for pledging to invest $1 trillion in the U.S.

The 55-year-old's choice of dress - a $3,350 coated emerald jersey strapless gown from Elie Saab - appeared to be a subtle show of support for MBS.

The crown prince's return to the White House has been controversial due to the 2018 killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and Saudi Arabia's role in the September 11 terror attacks.

It also comes as Trump is under political fire over pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, with the Saudis visit coinciding with votes to release the Epstein files in both the House and the Senate.
With snow falling and temperatures plummeting, there's not better time to pop the stove on and brew up a cup of hot chocolate.

But with every supermarket - and many boutique retailers - offering a cup of sweet cocoa, which ones are worth splashing out for, and which leave something to be desired?

Consumer experts Which? sipped their way through more than 700 cups to find the best-tasting hot chocolates, including options from Hotel Chocolat, Marks & Spencer and Tesco.

But they found that the majority of big name brands actually left a bitter taste in their mouths compared to cheaper supermarket hot chocolates.

Premium hot chocolate from Knoops took the Best Buy spot with judges praising 'right balance of creaminess, sweetness and bitterness'.

The hot chocolates were judged on flavour, aroma, appearance and texture, and 78 testers rated them based on how sweet or bitter they were, as well as the creaminess of the drinks.

The overall score was based on flavour (50%), aroma (20%), mouthfeel (15%), and appearance (15%).

Knoops 70% Extra Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes was named the Best Buy in the Which? hot chocolate taste test for its balanced flavour

A 250g can of Knoops hot chocolate is priced at 14.50, making it a pricier option but not the most expensive of all the brands tested.

Which? testers said it was 'head and shoulders' above the rest and awarded it Best Buy for its flavour, aroma and mouthfeel.

They described it as having 'just the right balance of creaminess, sweetness and bitterness'.

It was also rated as one of the best-looking hot chocolates, with two-thirds determining that the colour was 'just right'.

Knoops' hot chocolate comes in a stylish pack and is a great option for those looking for something 'extra special', said Which?.

Hot on Knoops' heels - and much friendlier in price - was Tesco Finest Belgian 70% Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes, which scored 70% overall.

At only 5.75 for a 200g pack, this supermarket own-brand hot chocolate is less than half the price of most of the brands tested by Which?, yet rated much higher.

It was praised by testers for having a 'delicious flavour and satisfying mouthfeel'.

Tesco Finest Belgian 70% Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes were given the Great Value title for delivering 'a taste of luxury without a steeper price' (left). M&S Collection Belgian 70& Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes were the cheapest option in the test and scored well for aroma and mouthfeel (right)

How did the hot chocolates compare? Hot chocolate Score Price per pack Pack size (g) Price per 100g Saturated fat per 100g (g) Sugar per 100g (g) Best Buy: Knoops 70% Extra Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes Blend 72% 14.50 250 5.80 23.3 26.3 Great Value: Tesco Finest Belgian 70% Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes 70% 5.75 200 2.88 25.7 29.9 Kokoa Dominican Republic Flakes 70% 70% 9.50 175 5.43 24 28 Marks & Spencer Belgian 70% Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes 67% 5.50 250 2.20 n/a n/a Chococo 72% Ecuador Origin Single Estate Hot Chocolate Flakes 66% 12.50 200 6.25 25 30 Cocoa Canopy Super Dark Hot Chocolate Melting Beads 65% 5.95 225 2.64 26.3 21.7 Pump Street 70% Drinking Chocolate West Papua 65% 15.50 200 7.75 22 30.4 Hotel Chocolat Classic 70% Hot Chocolate 60% 10.95 250 4.38 25.6 27.1 Islands Chocolate 75% Dark Chocolate Buttons 59% 11.50 200 5.75 28 27

While Tesco's hot chocolate lost out on appearance as two-thirds thought the colour was too dark, it was still awarded Great Value for offering consumers 'a taste of luxury without a steeper price'.

Premium single origin hot chocolate brand Kokoa Collection's Dominican Republic 70% Hot Chocolate Flakes tied in second place alongside Tesco.

At 9.50 for 175g, it is not as expensive as Knoops but still a good choice for anyone seeking a high-end hot chocolate that isn't going to break the bank.

It scored well on flavour, which tasters described as being 'well-balanced', as well as appearance as nearly three-quarters were satisfied with the colour of the hot chocolate.

Slightly lower down on the scoreboard was M&S Collection Belgian 70% Dark Hot Chocolate Flakes, the cheapest hot chocolate tested by Which?.

The M&S hot chocolate was described only as being 'reasonably well liked overall', with testers giving it a 67% rating overall.

It scored well for aroma and mouthfeel, but its flavour let it down, and around half of the testers said the hot chocolate was too bitter.

The other hot chocolate brands that were tested had mixed results, but it was clear that some of the more expensive brands were not as impressive as consumers might believe.

Chococo 72% Ecuador Origin Single Estate Hot Chocolate Flakes (12.50 for 200g) scored 66% overall for its good appearance and creaminess, but it failed to deliver the same high level of flavour as the top scorers.

It was followed up by Cocoa Canopy 75% Super Dark Hot Chocolate Melting Beads (5.95 for 225g), which was given a non-committal description of 'not bad', but with a flavour that did not appeal to everyone.

Pump Street, the most expensive and aesthetically pleasing hot chocolate on the test, also failed to impress the Which? testers.

The posh brand's 70% Drinking Chocolate Flakes West Papua (15.50 for 200g) scored only 65% overall and testers thought its flavour, aroma and mouthfeel were simply average.

Another big name brand, Hotel Chocolat, left testers feeling underwhelmed.

The chocolatier's Classic 70% Hot Chocolate Flakes (10.95 for 250g) scored a mere 60% overall, losing marks on mouthfeel as most of the testers thought it lacked creaminess.

Finally, Islands Chocolate 75% Dark Chocolate Buttons (11.50 for 200g) languished at the bottom of the roundup with a score of 59%, which testers found too bitter.
A Democrat caught texting Jeffrey Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019 danced around questions about the scandalous exchange during an appearance on CNN.

Emails from Epstein's estate released last week showed that Stacey Plaskett, a non-voting delegate from the US Virgin Islands, secretly communicated with the late convicted sex offender at a 2019 hearing during which former Trump attorney Michael Cohen testified against the President.

On Wednesday, a day after Plaskett narrowly avoided being censured over the exchange, CNN's Wolf Blitzer and Pamela Brown wasted no time in pressing her about the texts.

Brown pointed out that Epstein was already a 'known sex offender' when the delegate communicated with him.

Plaskett, 59, a member of the House Intelligence Committee, said she had 'lots of people' texting her that day and that she had been chatting with Epstein, one of her constituents, to obtain information.

She denied that Epstein had been 'directing' her about what to say at the hearing, despite texts showing he alerted her about one of Trump's former executive assistants.

Brown asked whether Plaskett would have still asked Cohen about the executive assistant if it weren't for Epstein's texts.

'Probably not,' Plaskett conceded, before being asked by Brown if she had 'any regrets' about the correspondence given Epstein's known sexual abuse.

Stacey Plaskett, the US Virgin Islands non-voting delegate recently caught texting Jeffrey Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019, faced tough questioning on CNN Wednesday

Plaskett secretly communicated with Epstein during a 2019 Oversight Committee hearing centered around former Donald Trump fixer Michael Cohen

'Well, listen, I think Jeffrey Epstein is a reprehensible person. Absolutely disgusting. I lived in a house during childhood with a mother who had been sexually abused by her dad. And I know the effect that had on her, as well as us as her family,' Plaskett replied.

'And so I understand what the victims are going through, and I want them to get their relevant - their justice, their peace out of this.

'I believe that Jeffrey Epstein had information, and I was gonna get information to get at the truth. Having a friendship with him is not something that I would deem to have.

'And so Im just looking forward - Im moving forward,' she maintained, before urging the 'American people' to do the same.

'If individuals are not involved in illegal activity, extending his criminal enterprise or his financial enterprise or all of those things, I think that we need to look at what people are doing moving forward.'

Brown stopped to again emphasize that many of Epstein's crimes were already public, as he had already pleaded guilty to state prostitution charges in 2008 and was facing accusations from dozens of other women.

'There are a lot of people who have done a lot of crimes, and as a prosecutor, you get information from people where you can,' Plaskett responded.

'Ive interviewed confidential informants, Ive interviewed narcotics, drug traffickers and others, and that doesnt mean that Im their friend.

CNN's Pamela Brown repeatedly asked Plaskett if she regretted texting a known sex offender

Epstein, at the time of the texts, was a resident of the Virgin Islands

'That doesnt mean that they are friendly with me. It means that they have information that I need and that Im trying to get at the truth, and thats what I do.'

Brown again asked if Plaskett regretted the decision.

'So no regrets, basically, is what youre saying?' the co-host asked.

'Im moving forward,' Plaskett replied.

At the time of the messages, Epstein was a resident of the Virgin Islands.

The Washington Post uncovered that the pair had texted after her name was initially redacted from the emails. Her office confirmed their report.

The delegate avoided censure Tuesday after the House voted 214-209 against formally reprimanding her over the texts.

Months after the Cohen hearing, in August 2019, Epstein was found dead in his cell at the Metropolitan Correctional Center in Manhattan.
A survivor of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein fell silent for several seconds after MS NOW host Jen Psaki asked her about Donald Trump during an interview.

Sharlene Rochard had been carefully answering questions from Psaki Tuesday about how she came to meet Epstein as a young model when the tone of the conversation suddenly changed.

As Psaki pressed Rochard about parties she attended at Trump's Florida estate Mar-a-Lago as a teenager, Joe Biden's former press secretary got straight to the point.

'I just have to ask if you think [Trump] was aware of that arrangement,' the host said.

After several seconds of excruciating silence, Rochard stammered, 'Um... I-I don't know if he was aware,' before trailing off.

'Actually, I can't answer that. I'm sorry,' she added.

Psaki quickly turned to the fact that Rochard had been a teen at the time.

'And I think this is important for people to understand that people were in their teens and were young, and you were a - you were a young model and you were - you were handled by a predator.'

Epstein survivor Sharlene Rochard joined MS Now's Jen Psaki Tuesday to answer questions about how she came to met the convicted sex offender as a young model

The tone of the interview changed when Psaki brought up the president's well-known presence in Mar-a-Lago, leaving Rochard silent for several seconds

She then asked Rochard - who earlier in the day was seen staging a protest with other survivors outside the US Capitol Building ahead of a House vote to release all investigation materials related to the late financier - whether she was trafficked.

Rochard turned to her fellow guests, the brother and sister-in-law of Epstein victim Virginia Giuffre, who died by suicide earlier this year.

Giuffre's sister-in-law, Amanda Roberts, advised Rochard she could respond in the affirmative but could not 'name names.'

Psaki again moved on.

'You only share what you want to share. You dont have to be sorry for anything,' the host said.

'And Im asking you this because I think its important to understand, as people do understand about Virginias story, that its not about just one person or two people. Its much bigger than that.

'You can share whatever you want to share.'

Rochard - who had been telling her story for the first time - again fell silent for several seconds, her voice shaking with emotion as she managed an answer.

Trump - seen here with Epstein at his Mar-a-Lago estate in 1997 - had a social and professional relationship with the financier. He has denied any involvement in Epstein's crimes

Rochard holds a photo of her younger self during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the US Capitol on Tuesday

'Terrible things had happened to me within my time with - dealing with Jeffrey Epstein. I had encounters with people that I would rather not have.'

Falling silent again, Psaki again cut in.

'I understand weve talked about this before, why you dont want to share names, and I think people like Sky and Virginia have educated all of us on the fear a lot of survivors have about litigation, about threats, about what can happen to your family,' the host said.

Trump, who had a social and professional relationship with Epstein in the 1990s and 2000s, was seen with Epstein at Mar-a-Lago several times.

He has denied any involvement in Epstein's crimes.
Royal Mail has beaten other parcel delivery firms to come out on top in a ranking of the top five delivery firms.

Citizens Advice's Parcels League Table measures the customer service, delivery, accessibility and trust of the most used delivery firms.

It uses a combination of social media analysis, consumer service data and polling data to calculate the scores.

Royal Mail came out top with an overall score of 3.25 out of 5, leading on trust and accessibility, followed by Amazon Logistics.

It marks somewhat of a turnaround for Royal Mail, which in October was fined 21million for missing its delivery targets for First Class and Second Class post.

DPD and Evri were tied in third place, with DPD coming out on top for trust but lagging on customer service. Yodel came bottom of the table again with a score of 2 out of 5.

Dire delivery: Royal Mail topped the league table of parcel firms but issues remain

While Royal Mail has the highest score on record, Citizens Advice says the parcels market 'is still not working for people relying on it'.

Over the last five years, the proportion of people who have experienced a problem with their most recent delivery has never fallen below a third, and this year reached its highest level.

While delivery scores have improved marginally, with an overall increase of 0.2 of a star, polling data shows problems are at the highest levels seen in five years.

Of the people who had a problem, 24 per cent said a parcel was left in an insecure location, while the same number reported late deliveries. A bigger proportion (29 pr cent) said the delivery driver left before they had to time to go to the door.

Yodel, Evri and DPD are the worst performers, with a score of 2.4, while Royal Mail and Amazon Logistics scored 3.2 out of 5.

When customers do have an issue with their delivery, the scores show that they find it hard to resolve.

Regulator Ofcom introduced more guidance for parcel companies on managing complaints in 2023, but Citizens Advice's research shows customer service is still lagging. The highest customer service score was 3.5 out of 5 for Amazon Logistics.

Ofcom's guidance on accessibility is also doing little to help consumers, as it continues to be the lowest-scoring category, with Royal Mail coming out top with a measly 2.8 out of 5.

Trust scores are also the lowest they've been, with Yodel earning a score of just 1.8 out of 5, followed by Evri with 2. Three-quarters of consumers reported they had no choice in which firm delivered their parcel.

Although there has been an overall increase in the average scores - albeit only 0.35 of a star - delivery problems are no better than 5 years ago, according to Citizens Advice.

In 2021, 36 per cent of people experienced a problem with their last delivery. There were signs of improvement in 2023, when it dipped to 34 per cent, before an uptick in 2024 and 2025. It now stands at 37 per cent.

A Royal Mail spokesman said: 'We are pleased Royal Mail came first in the Citizens Advice parcels league table for the fourth year running.

'Since last year, we've made great strides in providing customers with the most convenient options for sending, returning and collecting parcels.

'Aside from delivering to every home in the UK, we offer the UK's largest out of home network including shops, lockers and parcel post boxes, all introduced to ensure we're the nearest and simplest choice for our customers.'

What to do if your delivery is late

A quarter of those who placed an online order in the 2024 festive season had at least one problem, according to a survey by Which? shared with This Is Money.

Whether it's late deliveries or damaged and missing presents, shoppers have the right to claim a refund in most cases.

One shopper told Which? they had ordered a present in November that turned up on Christmas Eve, while another spent 11.99 for next-day delivery, only for it to arrive two days later.

If you paid extra for delivery and the parcel arrived later than expected, you can claim back the extra cost.

You can read our guide to making a complaint and receiving a refund if your delivery is late.

Have you had a delivery disaster? editor@thisismoney.co.uk
All eyes were on Nvidia as the worlds largest company released its latest results.

Nervy investors, already rattled by a recent market wobble, were watching to see whether the $4.5trillion company at the heart of the AI boom could deliver.

Better than expected earnings would mean the stock market party could continue, but disappointing results may spell lights out - and trigger a severe stock market correction.

In the end, Nvidia came through. It reported forecast-beating revenues of $57billion (44billion) in its third quarter, along with a revenue projection of $65billion (50billion) for this quarter.

Investors breathed a sigh of relief at Nvidias good results - but for many the question over the AI bubble bursting still remains if not now, when?.

The stratospheric rise of Nvidia and the extremely high expectations being placed on US technology shares mean that when disappointment eventually arrives it could trigger a crash.

Nvidia has grown so much that the company is worth 50 per cent more than the combined valuation of the 100 firms that make up the FTSE 100, the UK's leading stock market index.

And with so many UK investors holding tracker funds that leave them dependent on the US tech giant-dominated global stock market's fortunes, this would severely dent the pensions and investments of millions of Britons.

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang has seen his company become the most valuable in the world

Nvidia's results in a nutshell

Nvidia reported another set of record-breaking results after the New York stock market closed.

The AI computer chip giant was expected to deliver an astonishing $55billion (42billion) in revenue in its third quarter earnings, up 56 per cent on a year ago.

But crucially Wall Street was also looking for its projected sales for next quarter, which were expected to be an even more gargantuan - at $62billion (48billion).

In crowd-pleasing results, Nvidia said in the third quarter of the year it raked in $57billion in sales in just three months - and that will grow to $65billion in this quarter.

Its data centre segment revenues, which account for most of the chip designer's revenue, came in at $51billion.

Stephen Yiu, manager of the Blue Whale Growth fund, which holds a large position in Nvidia, says the company isn't in an AI bubble:

He says: 'Whilst there are dot-com era bubbly valuations among private AI companies such as OpenAI and Anthropic, Nvidia's valuation remains attractive at a 30x one-year forward P/E ratio, with a 50 per cent free cash flow margin.'

Nvidia boss Jensen Huang said that sales of its key Blackwell chip were 'off the charts', cheering analysts and investors. Shares immediately bounced and climbed 5 per cent in after hours trading. However, in the first few hours of trading today they slipped 1.2 per cent.

Matt Britzman, senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Nvidia bears the weight of the world but, like Atlas, its standing firm under that towering mountain of expectations. Third quarter results delivered the goods and then some.'

How Nvidia became the worlds most important company

So just how did a quarterly earnings report from a tech company, which few outside Silicon Valley and Wall Street had heard of until recently, become so pivotal to the fortunes of global stock markets  and the value of your pension pot?

To answer that question you need to understand the key role Nvidia  and its chief executive Jensen Huang - played in the AI revolution.

Nvidia is the brainchild of Huang - a Taiwan-born electrical engineering graduate whose parents sent him to the US as a child - and two veteran microchip designers, Chris Malachowsky and Curtis Priem.

They founded the company in 1993 at a Dennys restaurant in San Jose, California.

Huang - who once worked as a Dennys dishwasher earning $2.65 an hour - has run the company ever since and is now one of the worlds richest people, with an estimated net worth of $158billion (121billion), according to the latest Bloomberg Billionaires index.

Nvidias main product is its graphics-processing unit (GPU), a tiny circuit board with a powerful microchip at its core that can handle complex calculations and repetitive tasks simultaneously  and at much faster speeds than rivals.

Originally designed for video games, these processors proved ideal for the so-called fourth industrial revolution that AI heralds.

Nvidias chips provide the enormous computing power within physical data centres that store and retrieve vast quantities of text and video from the internet, as well as other sources, used to train chatbots and other large language models.

Unlike rivals such as Intel, Nvidia doesnt actually make these chips. They are mainly contracted out to the Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC).

But crucially, Nvidia not only designs the hardware  the microchips  but also the software on which they run.

After successful trials of its Coda software platform, Huang went all-in on AI in 2013. He has not looked back since.

The emergence of OpenAI's ground-breaking ChatGPT sent Nvidia shares into orbit

Nvidia really came of age a decade later when it emerged that ChatGPT  Open AIs ground-breaking chatbot  was powered by its most sophisticated chips.

The news sent Nvidias shares into orbit, as big tech companies and AI start-ups alike scrambled to get their hands on its processors. To meet the insatiable demand Nvidia launched a new generation of high-end AI chips  codenamed Blackwell  costing more than $30,000 each.

Nvidia can charge so much because of it has cornered the market in AI chips. Its near monopoly has turned the company into a massive money-making machine and propelled a share price surge unmatched in stock market history.

Over the past five years, Nvidia shares have soared 1,300 per cent.

Nvidia became the fastest company ever to go from a $1trn to a $2trn valuation. Astonishingly, it took just eight months.

Then four months later, on June 18, 2024, Nvidia vaulted fellow tech titan Microsoft to become the worlds most valuable firm.

And last month another milestone was hit when Nvidias stock market valuation topped $5trillion (3.8trn)  more than the entire annual output of Germany, the worlds third largest economy.

Neil Wilson, of Saxo Markets, says that while there was a huge market focus on Nvidia's latest results, it is not necessarily the chip designer that people need to look to when considering the AI bubble.

Nvidia is benefitting from massive demand, whereas what will constrain the AI gold rush is the huge demand for electricity and whether chips can be delivered fast enough.

On the Nvidia results, he commented: 'Hard to find much here changes the story, as we knew beforehand that AI demand is insatiable and hyperscalers are still spending big.

'The questions over AI will not be answered this quarter or until one to 2 years: a) is there enough cash, b) can it be deployed (energy), and c) can it be deployed with any semblance of efficiency. Backlog rose, constraints are in power and supply, not in demand.'

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Why investors fear an AI bubble bursting

Like all new technologies, investors are attracted to AI by the prospect of lower production costs  and higher profits  as many traditional white-collar jobs are rendered obsolete by automation.

But the sheer amount of money now pouring into AI has fuelled concerns they may never see a return on their investment.

Eyebrows have been raised by a string of recent complex deals between ChatGPT creator Open AI and the likes of Nvidia, Microsoft and software giant Oracle worth $1.4trillion (1.1trillion) in total  even though Open AI only has revenues of just $13billion.

Warnings that the AI boom could turn to bust abound, from the Bank of England to the International Monetary Fund.

Jamie Dimon, boss of the worlds biggest bank JP Morgan, thinks that some of the cash being showered on the sector will probably be lost.

And Sundar Pichai, who runs Google-owner Alphabet, reckons no company is going to be immune if the AI bubble bursts.

They fear a repeat of the dotcom crash a quarter of a century ago, when the internet was still in its infancy.

While many of todays AI giants are making huge profits - as in 2000, the valuations of some tech companies today look stretched in the extreme. If they fail to meet lofty earnings expectations their shares could fall a long way.

The difference is that far more wealth is tied up in tech stocks today than it was back then. The so-called Magnificent 7  Nvidia, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook-owner Meta, Alphabet and Tesla  account for more than a third of the benchmark S&P 500 index total value.

Meanwhile, the US stock market accounts for about 70 per cent of the global MSCI index.

In other words, when the tech giants sneeze, global stock markets catch a cold, wiping billions off the value of pensions and investments.

There are concerns that the widespread use of exchange traded funds (ETFs), which track the market up and down, could add to selling pressure if investors pull their cash out in a rush and exacerbate a crash.

As Rich Privorotsk, a partner at investment bank Goldman Sachs put it recently: 'There are just a lot of things about this market that haven't been adding up for a while. We have been overdue a correction and the question is the magnitude.'

The big investors ditching Nvidia

Some shareholders in Nvidia have already voted with their feet. Two major technology investors  Japanese conglomerate Softbank and American entrepreneur Peter Thiel  have recently dumped their entire stakes in the company

And earlier this month Michael Burry  the Big Short investor who famously anticipated the US housing crash ahead of the 2008 financial crisis - disclosed a big bet his hedge fund had made on Nvidias share price falling, along with fellow tech high-flier Palantir's shares.

The timing of these moves may be coincidental, but it did little to soothe investors nerves that a blow-up was imminent.

Ahead of the earnings announcement Nvidia had lost around $600billion (460billion)  about 11 per cent of its value - since its share price peaked at the end of last month. Other tech stocks have fared worse, notably Oracle, down almost a fifth from its recent high.

The AI believers

For now, though, AI believers are keeping the faith.

Stephen Yiu, of Blue Whale, notes 'not all bubbles are the same and argues AI is already delivering.

He cites the example of the dotcom bubble, which saw the mass adoption of the internet and mobile phones but also a lot of friction because the technology was still in its infancy, hampered by slow data speeds and basic handsets.

Compare that, he says, with how quickly ChatGPT was adopted to reach 800 million users in only three years, whereas the internet took 13 years to reach the same number.

The tangible impact on our work and personal lives that AI is already having justifies the huge sums being pumped into the technology by the tech giants, Yiu adds.

But even he is cautious: If that tilts the other way, and investment outweighs the value added by AI, that's when a bubble could form.

Will the AI bubble turn into a crash?

Nvidia's results may settle investors' nerves after a febrile month saw sentiment shift from companies and markets hitting new highs, to sizeable share price falls and worries a correction had begun.

But the results are likely to stall fears rather than make them go away. Some firms, such as Nvidia, remain massively profitable but investors' expectations are sky-high and there will come a point when they can't be delivered on.

The race to build massive power-guzzling datacentres in the US to service the AI boom has led to a number of tech firms being dubbed 'hyperscalers', as they rush headlong into building capacity.

But critics raise concerns ranging from the remote locations of some data centres, to whether enough electricity can be generated to power them, how long expensive chips will remain cutting edge, and the circular deals being struck between companies.

Increasing numbers of investors believe we are in a bubble and are nervously waiting for the event that will pop it - sending tech stocks tumbling and the whole stock market into a correction.
The boss of Jet2 has warned taking flights abroad could become something for the rich and privileged should the Chancellor heap more tax hikes on the sector.

Steve Heapy on Wednesday reiterated his plea for Rachel Reeves to refrain from treating the aviation sector as a cash cow at next weeks Budget.

Businesses are nervously waiting to hear from the Chancellor after she hit employers with a shock 25billionn raid on National Insurance contributions last year.

There has been speculation that Reeves is likely to hike Air Passenger Duty (APD) - the tax paid on flights leaving the UK.

Increases would see prices rise for customers, Heapy warned, as he revealed record sales for the six months to 30 September.

He said: I would ask the government not to continue using the airline and holiday industry as a cash cow, as a bottomless pit of money.

Jet2 boss Steave Heapy warned the Budget could see flying 'become something for the rich and privileged.

'Any additional taxation that's passed on to the airline and the holiday industry is inevitably passed on to customers, and that will put prices up.

'This would mean that the lowest earning members of society are put off booking holidays.

I think that would be a perverse outcome, that flying would become something for the rich and privileged.

Consumers have continued to leave holiday bookings later, he admitted. The operator said there is still a 'significant proportion of the winter season still to sell'.

But Heapy said it appeared that the annual overseas holiday remains a cherished priority for many and was a priority even in uncertain economic times.

Jet2 shares rose 3 per cent on Wednesday morning after the airline operator said sales hit 5.3billion for the six months.

Popular destinations this summer included Greece, the Balearics and mainland Spain, with the airline flying 14.09million passengers.

Mark Crouch, market analyst for investment platform eToro, said; The consumer may be cautious, pockets a little lighter, but value-focused leisure remains stubbornly resilient. Jet2 isnt flying entirely above the clouds, not yet, but todays update suggests it has found a steadier, more reassuring tailwind.
Chief executive of Severn Trent Liv Garfield is stepping down after a 11-year career with the water group.

It comes as the firm embarks on its largest-ever infrastructure upgrade programme.

UK households are being whacked with enormous water bill hikes to fund critical infrastructure upgrades.

Such improvements have been underfunded for years as some operators have prioritised dolling out shareholder payouts and executive bonuses.

Severn Trent is setting out on a 15billion investment programme it says will halve storm overflow spills by 2030, reduce river pollution by 30 per cent and cut leakage by 16 per cent over the current regulatory period.

And its household customers, which span the Bristol Channel to the Humber estuary, and from mid-Wales to the East Midlands, have seen bills rise by an average of 22 per cent to 686 a year to help pay for it.

Over and out: Liv Garfield exits after 22 years with Severn Trent

Garfield was handed a 3.3million bonus last year as Severn Trent's performance allowed the group to avoid regulator Ofwat's clampdown on unjustifiable executive payouts in the sector.

Ofwat has blocked 4million in executive bonus payouts over the last year amid efforts to crack down on poor performance in the sector, which is still seeing operators fail to prevent critical pollution incidents.

The group has achieved the Environment Agency highest rating of 'four stars' for six consecutive years.

Severn Trent, which unlike worse-performing operators has maintained its stock market listing, told shareholders on Wednesday it was 'the right time to transition to a new CEO' after a 'strong start' to its major investment programme.

To replace Garfield, the group has selected insider and managing director of its Welsh unit Hafren Dyfrdwy Cyfyngedig, James Jessic, as its new CEO.

Severn Trent said Jesic, who also joined the group as a graduate, has 'worked across the full breadth of the business' since starting in 2003.

The group added: 'James has delivered industry-leading financial and environmental performance, and operational transformation across water and waste networks during his 22-year career at Severn Trent.

'He possesses a deep technical understanding of Severn Trent's operations, and most recently played a leading role in expanding the commercial portfolio of the group, including the growth of Severn Trent's renewables business, Green Power.'

Jessic will earn a starting salary of 775,000, compared to Garfield's salary of 873,200.

'Variable remuneration levels will match those of Liv's current package, in line with the 2024 Remuneration Policy,' Severn Trent said.

It came as Severn Trent reported annual revenue growth of 18 per cent to around 1.44billion for the six months to 30 September.

Outgoing boss Garfield said in a statement: 'The next five years will be a period of exceptional growth for Severn Trent.

'We have made a strong start to our largest-ever investment programme, frontloading our investments to deliver faster for customers.

'Thanks to these early investments, we've upgraded our forecasts for this year's performance incentives to drive improvements in the things our customers care about most, and delivered an unprecedented sixth consecutive year of top-rated environmental performance.

We're confident we can deliver earnings growth and returns while investing even more for our customers, creating new jobs across our region and improving the environment for the communities we serve.'

Severn Trent shares were down 0.9 per cent to 2,690p by mid-morning. They are up by around 7 per cent since the start of 2025.
Former deputy dinance minister Abena Osei Asare has criticised the 2026 national budget for what she describes as a weak commitment to the fight against illegal mining.

During the debate in Parliament today, she argued that government cannot claim illegal mining threatens national survival while allocating what she believes is an insignificant amount to address the problem.

She noted that only 0.003 percent of the total budget has been set aside for efforts to curb illegal mining.

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According to her, this shows that the fight is not being taken seriously.

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Osei Asare compared the situation to going to a battlefield with plastic chairs instead of ammunition, stressing that the resources provided are far too small to deal with a problem that continues to destroy water bodies, farmlands, and food sources.

She warned that illegal mining is harming communities, poisoning food, and endangering lives.

She urged Parliament to push for an increase in funding before passing the budget.

Osei Asare called for better support for alternative livelihoods for people who depend on illegal mining, noting that such measures would show genuine commitment to protecting the country's future.

By: Jacob Aggrey
ExxonMobil blamed deliberate Government policies for the closure of a plant in Scotland as it warned the whole industrial base in the UK is at risk  including a second site in England.

As a row broke out over the decision to shut its chemicals plant in Mossmorran, company executive Paul Greenwood urged ministers to wake up and see the damage their economic policies are doing.

He said that while the oil giant has absolute confidence in its Fawley site in Hampshire, it faces the same challenges as the Mossmorran ethylene manufacturing plant in Fife, which is due to close in February next year.

The comments came as a row broke out at Prime Ministers Questions, where Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch warned of the real world consequences of Labours handling of the economy.

With more than 400 jobs at risk at Mossmorran, Keir Starmer said workers are going through a difficult time but added that the plant was losing 1million a week and every possible, reasonable avenue has been explored to keep the plant open.

Greenwood, however, said: Deliberate Government policies are undermining us.

At risk: ExxonMobil said its Fawley site in Hampshire faces the same challenges as the Mossmorran ethylene plant in Fife (pictured), which is due to close in February next year

He told BBCs Today: You know whats happening in the North Sea.

Weve had windfall taxes, weve had a ban on production licences. I need cheap sources of abundant ethane and I do not have them, because the North Sea  because of Government policy  is declining rapidly and that ethane is increasingly high-price.

We paid 20million last year in CO2 taxes. That will double in the next four or five years.

My international competitors do not have those costs. I also have to deal with high energy costs.

Greenwood, who is chairman of Esso UK at ExxonMobil, said it has absolute confidence in backing the plant in Fawley near Southampton for many years to come.

But he added: Fawley is a very strong asset but the Government needs to understand that the whole industrial base in the UK is at risk unless they wake up and see the damage that their economic policies are doing.
Beauty Tech Group upgraded its profit expectations as a bumper listing on the London stock market boosted the companys profile.

Boss Laurence Newman said there was no doubt its October float added to the growing awareness of it and the at-home beauty device sector.

'It traded strongly in October and November.

And this ever-increasing awareness was driving strong sales growth, Newman said, helping sales forecasts to rise from 117million to 128million for this year.

The Cheshire firm said annual profits are now set to be 32million compared to previous expectations of 29.7million after a 27 per cent rise in sales to 55.2million in the first half.

Shares rose 9.4 per cent, or 21p, to 244p yesterday.
Nvidia shares edged higher last night as record revenues eased fears the artificial intelligence (AI) stock market bubble is about to burst  at least for now.

In one of the most eagerly awaited updates in recent corporate history, the worlds most valuable company said it raked in 44billion ($57billion) in the third quarter of the year, up 62 per cent on the same period 12 months earlier.

The AI microchip pioneer also said it expects fourth-quarter sales of 50billion ($65billion)  well ahead of Wall Street estimates.

The figures were seen as critical moment as investors looking for signs whether the AI bubble is about to burst  or fears of a stock market meltdown were overblown.

And Nvidia shares rose more than 4 per cent in the minutes after the figures were published, eventually rising about 5 per cent in after hours trading. The results buoyed markets overnight, with shares in Asia rising.

Nvidia became the worlds first $5trillion company last month as fears investors continued to pile in despite fears that the bubble may be about to burst.

Chip shop: Nvidia said it raked in 44bn in the third quarter of the year and that it expects fourth-quarter sales of 50bn  well ahead of Wall Street estimates

But before last nights results, the stock had fallen around 10 per cent in just three weeks, wiping $500billion off its value.

Julian Emanuel, chief equities strategist at Evercore ISI, said: The angst around peak AI has been palpable.

But Chris Beauchamp, chief market analyst at trading platform IG, said last nights figures from Nvidia are unlikely to settle the question of whether we are in an AI bubble or not.

Its Nvidias world really, we all just live in it, he said. US stocks dominate the fate of global markets, and as the largest single listed entity in the world, Nvidias earnings are an event marked on the calendar of every investor.

Worries about an bubble have intensified this month amid signs some shareholders are voting with their feet.

Two major technology investors  Japanese conglomerate Softbank and American entrepreneur Peter Thiel  have recently dumped their entire stakes in Nvidia.

And Michael Burry  the Big Short investor who famously anticipated the US housing crash ahead of the 2008 financial crisis - disclosed a big bet his hedge fund had made on Nvidias share price falling.

Bosses of major investment banks such as Goldman Sachs, JP Morgan Chase and Morgan Stanley have warned that a sharp correction in the stock market, when prices drop after being overvalued, is likely in the next one to two years.

Fears of a wider market rout should the AI bubble burst were echoed by Sundar Pichai, the boss of Google owner Alphabet, who this week warned no company would be immune from the effects.

Pichai drew comparisons between the AI bubble and the dotcom boom of the early 2000s, when the growth of the internet fuelled stock market hype around any firm related to the sector, only for it all to come crashing down around the turn of the millennium.

I expect AI to be the same, he said. So I think its both rational and there are elements of irrationality through a moment like this.

Reacting to Nvidias latest figures, Matt Britzman, senior equity analyst at Hargreaves Lansdown, said: Nvidia bears the weight of the world, but like Atlas, its standing firm under that towering mountain of expectations. Third quarter results delivered the goods and then some.

'While AI valuations are dominating the news feeds, Nvidia is going about its business in style. There are certainly pockets of the AI space where valuations needed to take a breather, but Nvidia is not in that camp.

'In fact, while shares have performed well this year, the valuation has gotten more attractive as earnings growth has raced ahead.

Looking ahead to next year, demand isnt in question, Nvidia already has a massive backlog of orders. Whats new is that its market dominance is facing scrutiny.

'Key customers are exploring viable alternatives, at least on paper, as they seek faster compute and diversification away from a single supplier.

'The real question is how those alternatives stack up. Designs and promises of similar performance are one thing; track record at scale is another, and no one matches Nvidia there.

'Its breadth remains underrated: a full data center business spanning chips, software, networking, and more. Even if rivals can offer parts of the stack, Nvidias fully integrated solution will be hard to beat.
Property is a favourite British conversation topic. Nearly everyone has an opinion on where house prices are heading, the next property hotspot or where homes should - and shouldn't - be built.

But to get a true sense of what's driving the market, it is worth listening to the people who live and breathe property day in, day out.

In this series, we put an expert through their paces each month.

We want to know their view on all of the hot-button topics mentioned above as well as mortgage rates, buy-to-let and housebuilding.

Investment analyst: Anthony Codling is head of European housing and building materials for RBC Capital Markets

This month we spoke to Anthony Codling, head of European housing and building materials research for investment bank, RBC Capital Markets.

Codling analyses companies and market trends in the housebuilding and building materials sectors, to help institutional investors and fund managers decide whether to buy, hold or sell shares in publicly-traded companies.

What will house prices do over the next 12 months?

I believe that house prices will rise by about 5 per cent in the year ahead.

Nominal wages are rising, and we expect mortgage rates to fall over the next 12 months.

Rising wages and falling mortgage rates mean that homebuyers can secure larger mortgages, and larger mortgages will feed into higher house prices.

What about the next 10 years?

I believe that house prices are likely to rise by more than 50 per cent over the next 10 years.

If we look at the average 10-year increase since the turn of the century it is 76 per cent. Even if youd purchased at the pre-credit crunch peak, you would have seen your house price increase by 13 per cent by 2017.

House prices have been broadly flat since the mini-Budget of 2022, and as mortgage rates fall are likely to catch up on lost ground.

We also believe that the policies the Government employs to stimulate housebuilding will be supportive of house price growth.

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Where will mortgage rates be this time next year?

I wouldnt be surprised to see rates for a home mover buying with a 25 per cent deposit at around 3.75 per cent.

Can the Government build 1.5million homes?

I dont think we have the capacity to build 1.5 million homes. At most, I believe we have the supply chain and skilled trades in place to build 250,000 homes a year.

I think the total ahead of the next election is likely to be closer to 1million than 1.5million.

A lot depends on what housing policies and taxes are announced in the Budget on 26 November.

If the Budget slows down the housing market, we might even come in below 1million homes.

The Government has done a lot of good work, changes to planning, funding for social and affordable housing and infrastructure projects, but what we need is action as well as talk.

These policies need to be enforced: we need to see more planning approvals coming through and the announced funds being spent. Until that happens, we are unlikely to see an increase in housebuilding.

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What is the most urgent property crisis?

There are two big problems: supply and demand.

We need the Government to ensure that local authorities are approving significantly more planning applications and we need them to accelerate the deployment of the 39bn of additional funding in order to get Britain building.

We also need to invest in skills and trades. We need more bricklayers, carpenters and electricians if we are to get close to 1.5 million homes.

On the demand side, we need to provide deposit support to help those without the bank of mum and dad get on the housing ladder.

The average deposit from the bank of mum and dad is now more than 56,000. You need to look under an awful lot of sofas to find that much money.

Today, getting on the housing ladder is less about how much you earn and more about whether or not your parents own their home.

Falling short: Codling thinks the government is likely to build around 1million homes by the next election, not the 1.5million it promised

What could stop house prices rising?

Rising taxes will temper house price growth, but history shows us that it is difficult to make house prices fall.

If we look back to the global financial crisis, the last time we saw significant house price falls was when we had a big decrease in mortgage availability.

Market stress typically leads to a reduction in housing transactions rather than house prices  we choose not to move rather than crystalise a fall in house prices.

What will be the biggest change we'll see in the property market over the next decade?

Given the challenges of buying a home we will see continued growth in the rental market, and the build-to-rent market in particular, due to the changes to taxes, policy and regulation facing small buy-to-let landlords.

How would you help first-time buyers if you were Chancellor?

We need to help those without access to the bank of mum and dad. This could either be through a deposit assistance scheme, or perhaps a more radical idea allowing first time buyers to buy without a mortgage.

This is very achievable. Use the Help to Buy Isa money or a new similar investment product to buy homes.

Those looking to buy, pay a 5 per cent deposit and then pay market rent on the balance, with any overpayments being used to buy the home.

The Government buys homes, rents them out and renters can purchase the home.

Such a scheme could be funded almost entirely by the private sector, and therefore wouldnt cause any additional Budget headaches for the Chancellor.

New builds or period homes?

There are pros and cons to both, new build tends to win on running costs and period homes on character.

However, the old cliches continue to ring true; its all about location, location, location.

Ideally you want a property in an area where demand outstrips supply.

What investment would you make in the property sector right now?

For any investment in a property company's shares ahead of the Budget I would say only invest what you can afford to lose, and invest with at least a five-year time horizon in mind .

It is unclear at the moment whether the Budget will be good news or bad news for share prices in the sector.

On a five year view housebuilders such as Barratt Redrow and Taylor Wimpey look good value to us, and we also believe that Rightmoves shares fell too far after the announcement of their new targets on 7 November.
Piled high with engines, seats, doors and bumpers, this is a stolen car graveyard packed with parts hacked off prized motors to feed a lucrative global trade.

The warehouse - tucked away in a cargo yard at the port of Felixstowe in Suffolk - contains hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of parts intercepted by police from shipping containers heading halfway across the world.

Filmed exclusively by the Mail, it offers an insight into the vast scale of the illegal trade in stolen car parts that is driving Britain's 1.77billion-a-year car theft epidemic.

Gangs steal vehicles to order off streets and driveways - typically by overriding keyless entry systems.

They are frequently ripped apart at black market yards, known as 'chop shops', before the parts are shipped to the Middle East or Africa - where they are in high demand due to shortages dating back to Covid.

Most are hidden inside shipping containers that are loaded onto ships at ports like Felixstowe. The vast scale of cargo exports means there is a strong chance they will pass through undetected.

The Mail was given a tour of the warehouse of stolen car parts as part of a week-long police blitz against the stolen car trade involving 37 forces.

This identified a total of thirteen chop shops across England and Wales, including one in London containing parts worth more than 300,000 and significant amounts of cash.

Do you have a story? Email rory.tingle@dailymail.co.uk

The warehouse - tucked away in a cargo yard at the port of Felixstowe in Suffolk - contains hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of parts intercepted by police

The scene, revealed to the Mail during a visit earlier this year, offers an insight into the vast scale of the illegal trade in stolen car parts that is driving Britain's car theft epidemic

The parts of the warehouse are collectively worth hundreds of thousands of pounds

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Breaking cars down not only makes it easier for criminals to avoid tracking - it can also increase their revenues as the parts are often worth more than the complete car.

Police believe the gang controlling the chop shop in London could be responsible for more than 1m worth of car thefts.

During their own raids, West Midlands Police came across an 'Aladdin's Cave' of parts across a number of storage units, as well as living quarters for workers on site.

One chop shop also held a cannabis factory, weapons and controlled drugs were seized and around 60 number plates which are suspected to be used in avoiding detection by police and enforcement authorities.

More than 130 stolen vehicles were seized across the UK, either whole or already in parts.

Police try to reunite vehicles with their legal owners, which may be an insurance company if they have already paid out on a claim.

Adam Gibson, ports intelligence officer at the National Vehicle Crime Reduction Partnership (NaVCIS), said parts were taken to black market dealerships abroad where they were either used to fix broken cars or reassembled into new ones.

Operation Alliances was funded by the Home Office and used intelligence from Opal, policing's national intelligence unit for serious organised acquisitive crime.

DCI Kate Brummell, its Head of Operations, told the Mail: 'The parts are often more valuable than the cars themselves.

'Cars go to destinations including the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the UAE, others go to Barbados and Cyprus.

'We know cars are often stolen for the terrain of their final destinations.'

The trove of parts would have been hugely valuable if sold on

During their own raids, West Midlands Police found an 'Aladdin's Cave' of car parts across a number of storage units, as well as living quarters for workers on site

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Cars are often fitted with trackers, which can identify their location if they are not already disabled by criminals.

In a recent TV documentary, a stolen Audi was tracked down to a site called Baldwins Farm, an industrial estate in Essex that has long been linked to criminality.

The programme began with an Audi A4 that was stolen from a driveway in North London on March 15. Unbeknownst to the thieves, it had been fitted with a hidden tracker by the car leasing company.

This tracker showed the Audi moving east towards the borough of Enfield before switching off. Then, days later, it woke up 30 miles away in a patch of woodland in Baldwins Farm.

It later emerged that the tracker was not transmitting, possibly due to GPS jamming or blocking equipment. Five weeks later, it suddenly reappeared in Kaunas, Lithuania, and was tracked to a business in the outskirts of the city called Baltic Car Trade.

A team from Channel 4's Dispatches filmed police raiding on the property, but instead of finding a blue Audi A4, all that was left of the vehicle was a bunch of wires. The car, like many stolen off British streets, had been torn apart.

Operation Alliances led to more than 154 arrests, raising the possibility more of the criminals responsible for the UK's illegal car trade will be publicly exposed and prosecuted in the courts.

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In a separate operation last year, police busted one gang behind a 3million chop shop in Oldham, Manchester.

The group, led by Asif Hussain, were linked to the theft of almost 100 stolen cars including Range Rovers, Mercedes, Porsche and BMWs.

Hussain used a 50,000 government Covid loan to invest in his illegal business. He was jailed for 15 years.

AA president Edmund King said: 'Closing chop shops, jailing signal jammers, stopping the sale of stolen parts and reuniting drivers with their stolen cars helps keep our roads and communities safe.'
Drug dealers, a kidnapper and a burglar after among at least ten Albanians criminals on the run after absconding from prison or ignoring recalls and warrants.

A recent spate of accidental prisoner releases has renewed focus on the number of foreign criminals dodging justice amid failings by the Prison Service and police.

The issue is particularly acute among Albanians, who are the largest single foreign nationality group in British jails.

Gangs from the Balkan country are also heavily involved in people smuggling and are known to offer their services to criminals looking to flee the UK.

One undercover Mail reporter  posing as the relative of a man on the run after killing someone  was previously promised a same-day trip to the Continent for 3,000.

Albanian fugitives include Zenel Marku, 35, who walked out of HMP Hollesley open prison in Suffolk in 2021 while serving nine years for drug offences.

Many of the offenders are wanted on recall to prison for breaching their licence conditions.

They include Ajet Xhaja, who operated a cannabis farm in Oxfordshire; Liverpool drug dealers Juli Molla and Steljan Miraka; and Andon Llalla, who lived in Harrogate and has managed to evade police since October 2021.

One of the most concerning cases involves Klej Doci, a member of a three-strong gang who kidnapped a man over a debt before holding him captive for five days.

On the run criminals, pictured clockwise from top left: Ermir Shima, Andon Llalla, Andi Trokthi, Ajet Xhaja, Zenel Marku, Steljan Miraka, Klej Doci, Juli Molla, Jemin Oka and Gentian Gega

The kidnappers snatched their victim from a car park in Reading alongside an innocent bystander who happened to be 'in the wrong place, at the wrong time'.

They then stripped both men naked and repeatedly beat them over a five-day ordeal that finally ended when armed police burst into the flat in 2021.

Sentencing Doci and his two associates at Reading Crown Court, Judge Heather Norton called the operation 'carefully planned'.

Describing the ordeal suffered by the victims, she added: 'They were made to sleep on the floor, not given water or food, and forbidden to go to the toilet.

'One of the victims appears to have been taken simply because he was in the wrong place at the wrong time and witnessed the kidnapping.'

Doci was jailed for five years in December 2023 before being released early on licence.

He was recalled after breaching his licence conditions but failed to appear and is now wanted.

The other Albanian offenders currently at large are wanted by police over a string of alleged crimes.

Albanian gangs are heavily involved in people smuggling are known to offer their services to wanted criminals looking to flee the UK. This now deleted TikTok advert reads: 'People with problems who want to leave England as soon as possible, going to France or Belgium on the back of the lorry. Price 2,500 sterling. Get in touch to send you a phone number'

Andi Trokthi is being hunted in connection with a burglary in Sheffield in January 2023, and Gentian Gega for drugs offences.

Meanwhile, Emir Shima failed to attend probation appointments and Jemin Oka dodged a court hearing over an identity card offence.

It comes as police continue to hunt another prisoner who was released by mistake.

William Wenham was serving a two-year sentence and waiting to face trial for an offence of aggravated burglary when he was released in error from HMP Rochester on Tuesday June 3 this year.

Wenham was convicted of burglary with intent to steal in his absence in Cambridge Crown Court on Friday October 3 2025.

Sussex Police say the 47-year-old has connections to Havant, Worthing, Brighton, Peterborough, and the surrounding area.

The issue of accidental releases was thrust into the spotlight last month when Epping migrant sex attacker Hadush Kebatu was released by mistake from HMP Chelmsford.

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Sex offender Brahim Kaddour-Cherif, 24, and fraudster Billy Smith, 35, were later released from Wandsworth by mistake but are now back in custody.

Justice Minister David Lammy recently told the Commons that 91 prisoners had been let out by mistake in just seven months.

They were in addition to 262 releases in error from prison in the year to March.

Out of those, three prisoners are still on the loose - two British nationals and a foreign national.

The first was in jail for failure to surrender to the police before being freed in December 2024.

The second was in prison for a Class B drug offence until being released in August 2024.

The third was in prison for aggravated burglary and released in error in June 2025.

A Government spokesperson told the Daily Mail: 'Offenders who abscond from custody or evade arrest face serious consequences and could spend longer locked up.

'We leave no stone unturned to make sure that those who breach their licence conditions are returned to prison, with nearly all offenders back behind bars within six months.'
The estranged wife of ex-criminal-turned-YouTube-sensation Spanian is embracing her new life as a single mother to their baby son - as she's pictured for the first time since the couple's sudden break-up.

Angela McColl and the 37-year-old eshay influencer (real name Anthony Lees) ended their two-year marriage sometime before October 2 - which McColl announced with a cryptic 'story time' post on Instagram.

At the time of their separation, their son was about four months old.

'Who the f**k did I marry and have a kid too [sic] will be out shortly, shout-out to @spanian.official,' McColl wrote, before promptly deleting the post.

About four weeks later, Spanian hard-launched his new girlfriend, 22-year-old Sydney woman Ava Jean Walker, posting a cosy Snapchat photo of the pair with the Harbour Bridge in the background.

Spanian explained in a subsequent video that he was 'clearly separated' from McColl and that it was a simple case of two people changing and 'fall[ing] out of love'.

McColl has kept a low profile since teasing a tell-all about the split - only surfacing in a dancing video filmed in an EzyMart convenience store.

However, we pictured her out and about on Monday as she visited Contour by Nathalia, a lymphatic massage centre in ritzy Woolloomooloo.

Angela McColl, the estranged wife of ex-criminal-turned-YouTube-sensation Spanian, visited Nathalia Abrao's massage clinic in Woolloomooloo on Monday

McColl stepped out in ivory activewear and a matching handbag (pictured)

She held a vape in one hand and her phone in the other as she walked through Woolloomooloo on Monday

Donning ivory activewear, she was seen walking down the street with a matching handbag over her shoulder, a vape in one hand and her phone in the other.

It comes just days after she publicly shared a fresh set of photos documenting coastal walks with her son and catch-ups with friends and family.

'My baby is five months old. God really blessed me. I love you bubby,' she wrote alongside photos of her little boy on Wednesday.

She appeared to be at the helm of a yacht in another photo, and a third showed her sitting at a cafe wearing a black lace dress with a Chanel handbag.

It was the same dress from the EzyMart video she had earlier posted on TikTok.

That clip prompted a wave of supportive comments from fans, including: 'Baddies on the loose,' 'YESSSS the post we have been waiting for,' and 'Girl's got her glow back.'

Daily Mail attempted to contact McColl via phone and at her Sydney address.

Spanian, on the other hand, was easier to pin down. When a reporter approached him near his Barangaroo apartment earlier this month, the kebab shop entrepreneur offered a series of strange, one-word answers to questions about his break-up.

McColl has uploaded a new photo of herself wearing a black lace dress with Chanel handbag

McColl also publicly shared new photos with her five-month-old son (pictured)

Pictured: McColl at the helm of a boat, left, and with her infant son, right

Asked about how his new life was going, he spoke only in alliterative riddles, saying it was 'magical, majestic, madness'.

Turning on his phone video to record the encounter with the Daily Mail, he asked what further 'm' words he could say. When we suggested 'marriage', he replied: 'Not that.'

When asked specifically about his new relationship with Walker, he responded somewhat cryptically: 'Mediation.'

Spanian was once Sydney's poster boy for the working-class urban youth subculture called eshays, known for tracksuits, bum bags, tough talk and street cred.

He has convictions for armed robbery, causing grievous bodily harm with intent and reckless wounding (pleaded down from an initial attempted murder charge).

His last sentence was for operating a criminal group that dealt drugs.

He served more than 12 years in prison in total. After his release from Bathurst prison in 2017, he launched the YouTube series 'Into the Hood', travelling across Australia and the world visiting dangerous, crime-riddled areas.

An influencer career beckoned as he marketed himself on YouTube as a reformed ex-crim, earning a fortune in the process.

But now Spanian's dramatic new look - complete with a rhinoplasty and a dazzling set of veneers - coupled with his marriage split has longtime loyalists wondering if he's also undergone a 'complete personality transplant'.

After featuring his new romance with Walker on social media, he bragged: 'I'm in the news because I have a beautiful new missus.

Fans have pointed out how drastically Spanian has changed since finding fame. He has a baby boy with estranged wife Angela McColl (right), whom he married in 2023

Pictured: Spanian with his new girlfriend, 22-year-old Sydney woman Ava Jean Walker. Only a handful of photos showing the couple together have appeared on TikTok and Snapchat

'I get a girlfriend, I'm in the news. I break up with my ex-wife, I'm in the news. I love that I'm extremely relevant.'

While he boasts of his 'extreme' relevance, not everyone is cheering him on.

Once praised for his gritty authenticity, fans now say Spanian has become 'unrecognisable' - both in looks and attitude.

'He's had the nose done, the veneers, and now he's dating someone who looks [so much] younger,' one fan commented on TikTok, a sentiment echoed across dozens of posts.

'This isn't the Spanian people followed. He's let the fame and money go to his head.'

Others took aim at the age gap with his new girlfriend.

'He needs to leave that poor girl alone, it's embarrassing,' one follower wrote.

Meanwhile, Spanian looks to be smitten with Walker, even going back through her Instagram to like old posts, including one from her trip to Byron Bay in January 2024.

Spanian opened up about his 'magical' new life since splitting from his wife and dating a younger woman in a surreal interview with the Daily Mail earlier this month

Spanian's estranged wife previously indicated she would talk about her marriage breakdown on social media 'shortly' - but no tell-all transpired

The backlash risks spilling over into his food business, with some fans threatening to boycott his Spanian's Kebabs chain, which has locations in Sydney and Melbourne.

The image problem couldn't come at a worse time for Spanian's Kebabs, which is gearing up to launch on Newtown's ultra-competitive King Street - a brutal strip where eateries often fail fast, including the site's previous tenant, Mr Potato.

'He used to be about the streets - now he's just another influencer flogging food,' one critic posted in a popular TikTok comment.

Many of his biggest fans fear he's lost the raw edge that made him famous.

'He was the voice of the streets,' one wrote. 'Now he looks like he's trying to join the cast of Love Island.'

It follows a major setback earlier in the year when arsonists torched one of his Melbourne trucks just days before its Preston grand opening.

Firefighters were called to the scene after the trailer was doused in accelerant and set on fire.

Spanian - ever the optimist - brushed off the attack, claiming it was 'the biggest turnout we've ever had'.

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The display of national flags on Britain's streets has become a 'tool of division' and 'intimidation', a policing leader said yesterday.

Emily Spurrell, chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) told a national conference that the surge in St George's and Union Jack flags being hung on lamp posts, motorway bridges and street signs across the country was 'sowing fear' and 'fuelling division'.

Ms Spurrell also hit out at the Home Secretary's asylum plans, suggesting she was 'demonising communities', adding that reforms 'must not come at the cost of compassion'.

In a major speech to a summit of police chiefs and crime commissioners, Ms Spurrell claimed the display of flags were part of a 'disturbing' trend in rising hate-fuelled rhetoric and deliberate misinformation about immigration and asylum seekers.

'Flags are an expression of our identity and proudly fly outside our police buildings. But when they are used to provoke fear or assert dominance, they become tools of division', she said. 'That is not free expression  that is intimidation.

'These actions are sowing fear, fuelling division and leaving  our neighbours, our colleagues and our friends  feeling unsafe in their homes and afraid to walk down the street.

'These actions do not reflect the values of our country  compassion, fairness and respect are the values that bind us together...

The chairwoman of the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC), Emily Spurrell, told a national conference that the surge in St George's and Union Jack flags being hung on lamp posts across the country was 'sowing fear' and 'fuelling division'

'We've heard this week some of the plans the Home Secretary has to overhaul the [asylum] system.

'Change must not come at the cost of compassion.'

When asked about Shabana Mahmood's plans, she said: 'We need to deal with our borders, we need to have a system that works for our communities, but it needs to be rooted in compassion, it needs to be one that isn't focused on demonising communities.'

Ms Spurrell pointed out that most of the perpetrators of violence against women and girls were British white men, not asylum seekers.

'Let's be clear, to couch anti-immigration rhetoric in the language of protecting women and girls is not only misleading  it is offensive,' she added.

'The threat to women and girls is a national emergency  but it is not one that has been imported. It comes from within our communities, our homes and, too often, from those who should be there to love and protect us.'

Ms Spurrell says that most of the perpetrators of violence against women and girls were British white men, not asylum seekers

Yesterday, the head of the National Police Chiefs Council, Gavin Stephens, said he too was concerned about divisions in society, but he described the display of flags as an issue for local communities, adding: 'It is not for us to police flags'.

Earlier, delegates in Westminster heard that Government plans to ditch police and crime commissioners (PCCs) were a 'mistake'.

Ms Mahmood has described PCCs as a 'failed experiment' announcing the role will be abolished in 2028 to save at least 100million and help fund neighbourhood policing.

Instead, mayors and council leaders will take up the responsibilities of policing arrangements.

Ms Spurrell told the annual conference: 'Describing PCCs as a failed experiment is as insulting as it is patently wrong.'
A creepy teacher in South Carolina received a lenient sentence for stalking one of his students and writing her more than 60 love letters.

Dylan Robert Dukes, 27, a former music teacher at Starr Elementary School, pleaded guilty last week to first-degree harassment and was sentenced to just five years probation despite the alarming claims against him, Fox Carolina reports.

Authorities have said Dukes - who was named Teacher of the Year in the 2023 - 2024 school year - began stalking an 11-year-old student in August 2023.

But an investigation did not begin until nearly a year later, in early July 2024, when the girl's parents reported that Dukes gave her a personalized box containing a letter for each day of the week during summer break.

He also gave the young girl cards, gift cards, ornaments, pictures and 'unwanted hugs' to the student, which made her uncomfortable, an arrest warrant stated.

When the girl switched schools, authorities said Dukes joined her church.

Detectives who then surveyed his classroom even found photos of the child in his desk, which authorities said were not sexual in nature.

Deputies with the Anderson County Sheriff's Office claimed they 'were able to stop the harassment and stalking before it became anything physical - which the juvenile was in fear of,' according to the Huffington Post.

Dylan Robert Dukes, 27, a former music teacher at Starr Elementary School, pleaded guilty last week to first-degree harassment

They noted he had been stalking the young girl since August 2023 and feared his actions were 'leading toward criminal sexual conduct.'

Dukes was then charged with stalking and was placed on administrative leave from the school district, which said at the time that it was cooperating with authorities and had made counseling resources available to students and staff, WYFF reported at the time.

Meanwhile, at an initial court appearance, the young girl's mother cried as she described the letters the music teacher left her daughter.

'My child had to endure moments of uncomfortability in places like church, school and sports, where my child should be comfortable and able to enjoy being a child,' she said.

The worried mother also said the access Dukes had to her child 'had continued to grow his obsession.' She said she hoped no other child would experience the stress and fear her daughter had endured.

Following the hearing, Dukes was issued a $50,0000 surety bond while being told to avoid any contact with the victim or her family if he were to be released.

Dukes, who was named Teacher of the Year in the 2023 - 2024 school year, was sentenced to just five years probation

A judge has since sentenced him to three years incarceration - which was suspended to five years of probation at his plea hearing last Wednesday.

As part of the agreement, Dukes must attend mental health counseling, surrender his teaching certificate and agree to a permanent restraining order prohibiting him from having any contact with the victim.
An iconic family-run Massachusetts restaurant has closed its doors for good after almost eight decades in business, leaving the community devastated.

Hawthorne by the Sea announced this week that the seafood restaurant and its adjoining Anthony's Pier 4 Cafe had officially closed after a 78-year stint at the Boston harbour.

The duo of restaurants sat on the water in Swampscott, 12 miles north of Boston and served signature Northeastern meals including lobster, crab cakes, and scallops, according to the website.

In the official announcement, owners Anthony Jr., Michael, and Paul Athanas thanked the community for keeping the businesses afloat for so long.

The brothers described their 'mixed emotions' at finally saying farewell to the venture, which they inherited from their father Anthony Athanas, an Albanian immigrant and restauranteur who founded Hawthorne by the Sea in 1946.

'Serving several generations of families has been our greatest honor. From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for your unwavering support and patronage throughout the years,' they wrote.

'Our father, Anthony Athanas, was a pioneer and leader in the restaurant industry and ahead of his time in so many ways.'

Anthony's Pier 4 was added to the property in 1963 and quickly became renowned worldwide for hosting presidents, religious leaders, athletes, actors, and writers.

Beloved restaurants Anthony's Pier 4 and Hawthorne by the Sea announced that they would be closing their doors after 80 years

Hawthorne by the Sea was founded by Albanian immigrant Anthony Athanas

The adjoining restaurants served classic New England food including lobster, crab cakes, and scallops

Despite their many star-studded patrons including Elizabeth Taylor, Frank Sinatra, and Jimmy Carter, it was their loyal community that will be most affected by the loss.

Many regulars commented to express their love for the restaurant and share stories about what it had meant to them and their families.

'Thanks to you and your father for many wonderful years of memories Hawthorne by the Sea, beginning when I was a child in the 50s, and later when wed go to the Surf theater Saturday matinee, and then to the Hawthorne,' one local wrote.

'Great restaurants and an amazing legacy of excellence in food, service and hospitality,' another added.

'So many of us have touching personal experiences & memories that will stay with us long after this incredible establishment is gone. First dates, wedding & funeral receptions, birthdays, anniversaries etc,' continued a third.

'My dad worked for Mr Athanas starting in the late 60s during summer breaks from college in West Virginia,' a fourth said.

'After graduation, Mr Athanas gave him his first job and sponsored his work visa. That's how my parents were able to become US citizens. My dad had so many wonderful stories from his time there and always spoke highly of Anthony and his son.'

Devastated locals reminisced on proposals, first dates, and birthdays all taking place at Hawthorn by the Sea.

Hawthorne by the Sea was one of Athanas's most successful restaurant ventures

The brothers sold the property three years ago to the town of Swampscott, noting it was the 'largest open space acquisition in half a century.'

The formal closure has been in the works since then, and the trio wrote: 'As the town prepares to move forward with its plans, we are ready to move on.'

Their father died in 2005 at 93 years old and left his sons his legacy.

He had spent his career working in restaurants and hotels after immigrating to the United States at just five years old.

'Swampscott is not only where he decided to open two restaurants, but his home, where he and our mother, Esther Athanas, raised their family of four boys,' his sons said in their statement.

'As a family, we are proud to have contributed to the town we call home.'

Many frequent patrons took to the comments to express their love for the restaurant

Founder Athanas died in 2005 and left his restaurants to his sons

Athanas opened five restaurants in New England between 1937 and 1975.

Despite opening multiple restaurants in the Boston area, Hawthorne by the Sea and Anthony's Pier 4 Cafe were the last remaining establishments of his legacy.

The restaurant began auctioning off hundreds of items from the iconic properties earlier this month. According to the Boston Globe, the auction ended Tuesday.
As the year draws to a close, authorities are intensifying efforts to ensure fireworks traders strictly comply with safety regulations to prevent accidents during the festive season.

The Ministry of Interior is working closely with companies in the fireworks business to raise awareness of the 2025 ministerial instructions governing the import, storage, trade, transportation, and display of fireworks.

Marie Reine Mugabekazi, International Cooperation Analyst at the ministry, stressed that obtaining a permit is mandatory for anyone handling fireworks.

"Applications to import, export, store, trade, or display fireworks must be submitted in writing to the competent authority, which is required to respond within 30 days," she said, adding that permits may be denied if they pose a security risk.

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Last year on New Year's Eve, fireworks lit up the Kigali skyline from locations including Canal Olympia, Rebero, Imbuga City Walk, the Kigali Convention Centre, and Kigali Serena Hotel, with the main display ushering in 2025 at midnight.

Mugabekazi explained that the ministerial instructions provide detailed guidance for traders. Importers must specify the type and quantity of fireworks, their country of origin, and intended use, while supporting documents such as company registration certificates and reports on previous imports are required.

For exports, sellers must present proof from the destination country authorising import or use, alongside proper identification.

Safety measures also apply to storage facilities, which must be located away from residential areas and equipped with fire extinguishers, lightning protection, and proper arrangements for different types of fireworks.

"Storage facilities must keep a register and be staffed by trained personnel. During transportation, fireworks must remain in their original packaging, protected from shocks, friction, and sparks," she said.

Transport plans should be shared in advance, escorts requested when necessary, and vehicles dedicated exclusively to fireworks, staffed with qualified personnel and equipped with fire extinguishers.

Companies seeking to trade in fireworks must submit a written permit application, proof of safe storage facilities, and the curriculum vitae of a qualified handler. Permit holders are required to keep detailed records of all transactions and submit monthly activity reports.

In the event of business closure, they must immediately notify authorities and declare any remaining stock.

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Aphrodise Uzayisaba, a fireworks trader, noted that individuals planning year-end displays must indicate the display location and secure a permit in advance.

"Handling fireworks requires extreme caution. They must be stored safely, and their use requires a special permit," he said, adding that demand is rising, particularly from hotels and government institutions. "Those who wish to use fireworks for just one display of about a minute pay around Rwf 1.8 million."

Display permits are issued only if applicants have trained staff, a comprehensive display plan, and a recommendation letter from the relevant local authority, supported by an assessment report from a security committee which comprises officers from Rwanda Defence Force (RDF) and Rwanda National Police (RNP).

During a recent awareness campaign, authorities warned that traders operating without authorisation, storing fireworks improperly, or mixing them with other merchandise pose serious risks. They noted that some individuals attempt to ignite fireworks without professional training, creating hazardous situations.

Only specialists--often former military personnel familiar with explosives--or certified companies are authorised to conduct displays.

The Ministry emphasised that awareness efforts are being intensified due to the surge in fireworks use during the festive season and reiterated that full adherence to guidelines is essential to ensure safe and orderly celebrations for all.
A Texas man who publicly mutilated a cat and ate its intestines has sparked public outrage after a judge ruled he would not serve any jail time.

Krystopher Nathan Torres, 21, pleaded guilty to animal cruelty after he stabbed the animal and ate its internal organs in a restaurant parking lot back in July 2024.

During the presidential campaign, Donald Trump faced fierce backlash when he claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield, Ohio, were stealing and eating local residents' cats and dogs.

The Biden White House condemned the rumors as 'dangerous' information.

Torres was sentenced on Monday for the unthinkable act of violence, but his punishment left animal activists 'appalled.'

The 21-year-old received five years of probation, 200 hours of community service, and $300 in court costs.

'Its disappointing that the disturbing nature of this case has not been taken seriously by the court,' In Defense of Animals Senior Campaigner Doll Stanley said.

'The abuser in this case isnt going to serve time or be mandated to obviously needed mental health counseling.'

Krystopher Nathan Torres, 21, mugshot, he pleaded guilty to animal cruelty after he killed and ate a cat's internal organs in a restaurant parking lot

A customer informed the manager of The Junction Brunch House in El Paso that Torres 'was stabbing and eating a cat in the parking lot'

Authorities were dispatched on July 17, 2024 after a customer informed the manager of The Junction Brunch House in El Paso that 'a man was stabbing and eating a cat in the parking lot,' according to the animal group's press release.

Torres fled the scene, leaving employees to scoop up the cat's remains in a plastic bag and discard it in a dumpster.

Officers who arrived on the scene discovered a vile sight - the cat's intestines sprawled all over the parking lot.

After they retrieved the feline's body, authorities found that its head was crushed and its body was ripped open.

Torres was discovered as the culprit after he was involved in a car accident the next day.

The cat killer was arrested and taken to the El Paso County Detention Facility for the despicable act and had a bond set at $100,000.

In Defense of Animals sent a letter with 14,765 signatures urging maximum penalties for Torres, they said in the press release.

They also advocated for Torres to receive 'mandated psychiatric counseling and a lifetime ban from being around animals'.

The 21-year-old's sentence was a slap on the wrist compared to what the animal rights group had sought.

'Those who can harm animals so maliciously must be held accountable, and vulnerable community members must be protected from further harm they may cause,' Stanley said.

Aerial view of the restaurant and parking lot in El Paso where Torres killed and ate a cat's internal organs in broad daylight

Donald Trump and Kamala Harris on the debate stage when Trump claimed migrants in Springfield, Ohio were 'eating the dogs, eating the cats'

The heinous act took place 1,600 miles from where Trump alleged during his campaign that illegal immigrants were eating cats and dogs.

The moment became one of the most infamous points of the election.

'In Springfield, they're eating the dogs. The people that came in, they're eating the cats,' the former president said during a debate with Democrat candidate Kamala Harris.

'They're eating the pets of the people that live there.'

Harris could be heard muttering 'What? This is unbelievable' before adding 'talk about extreme' and laughing.

The president's comments went viral on social media, becoming a TikTok audio and dance craze.

His incendiary comments left the city on edge, with locals warning he had only heightened tensions stoked by the anti-immigrant rhetoric sweeping social media.

But come election day, Trump stormed home to victory with a strong lead in the county, securing 64.2 percent of the votes.
After interviewing Gavin Newsom in September, Bill Clinton saw someone who has what it takes to be elected president.

The 79-year-old ex-president, according to Politico, is rather impressed by Newsom's talent, private sources have said.

The California governor has already expressed interest in launching a 2028 bid and has launched some rather strategic moves to get on America's radar.

Another major California political player, Willie Brown, the former mayor of San Francisco, a job Newsom also held, and ex-California state assembly speaker, has called Newsom 'big time.'

'He's the movie star,' Brown told Politico.

Now what's in plain sight - that Newsom is currently the frontrunner for the 2028 Democratic nomination.

Part of that is thanks to the failure of another Californian, 2024 Democratic nominee, Vice President Kamala Harris.

Politico reporter Jonathan Martin revealed how he was with Newsom in California for the 2022 midterms, races that didn't result in a red Republican wave as some had predicted, which emboldened Democratic President Joe Biden's quest for reelection.

California Governor Gavin Newsom has launched some rather strategic moves to get on America's radar

Bill Clinton, photographed during the balloon drop at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, said he believes Newsom can win a presidential race, sources told Politico

The pair sit down for a gushy 30-minute chat at Clinton's climate event in September

The magazine writer said he overheard Newsom on the phone telling Biden that he supported his bid, despite polling showing that Americans were seriously concerned about Biden's age.

Biden didn't pull out of the race until July 2024, after his disastrous general election debate, quickly endorsing Harris to take his place.

'Instead of staring down the prospect of Biden's re-election and likely Kamala Harris nomination four years later - which would have pushed Newsom's White House ambitions back to at least 2032 - the governor watched as the two leading Democrats collapsed months apart last year,' Martin wrote.

Elsewhere, Newsom is penning a new memoir that will be released in February, generally a rite of passage for any presidential candidate.

The California Governor, who sat down for a gushy 30-minute chat with Clinton at the Clinton Global Initiative in New York last month, has become a key figure in the anti-Trump resistance.

It came after the President activated the National Guard and sent in the Marines to quell protests against Immigrations and Customs Enforcement's mass deportation policies.

The very online politician has used social media platforms to mock Trump's online behavior, complete with AI-generated content and capital letters.

Two weeks ago, on election night, Newsom's gamble to ask California voters to choose to redistrict the state in favor of Democrats - to cancel out a similar move made by Republicans in Texas - also paid off.

The ballot initiative was affirmed by voters overwhelmingly, with the race called as the polls closed.

The balloon drop at the 2016 Democratic National Convention, where then Democratic nominee Hillary Clinton and former President Bill Clinton can be seen onstage alongside their family members

California Governor Gavin Newsom (right) takes a victory lap on election night after a ballot initiative he backed to redistrict the state to favor Democrats overwhelmingly passed

Talking to Politico, Newsom said 'the way back for the Democratic Party is about how we work around what appears for some to be this immovable object, Trump and Trumpism.'

Democrats have politically split on what will appeal more to the American electorate -a candidate who hugs closer to the political middle or a progressive in the fashion of Senator Bernie Sanders or Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

'I want it to be the Manchin to Mamdani party. I want it to be inclusive,' Newsom said was his take, referencing former Democratic Senator Joe Manchin and New York City's Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani.

Where Newsom stands on that Democratic divide, he's been cagey about.

When Martin asked if Newsom identified as a progressive, he replied, 'I'm a hard-headed pragmatist.'

'Once a mayor, always a mayor - get things done,' Newsom replied when Martin asked again.

'I don't want to be labeled,' the California governor also offered, saying he finds it 'reductive.'

Brown, who hired a 28-year-old Newsom to serve on San Francisco's Parking and Traffic Commission, said he didn't know what the current governor actually believes.

'I never asked him,' Brown told Politico. 'For fear he doesn't know!'
Zohran Mamdani has backed a controversial choice for his replacement in the New York State Assembly who once said 'white supremacy' was to blame for the attacks on September 11, 2001.

Aber Kawas, a Palestinian-American activist who only moved to the district last year, has received Mamdani's backing in her fight to take his seat in the state's 36th district in a special election, The New York Daily News reported.

The mayor-elect endorsement has gained the 34-year-old newfound attention on some of her more extreme opinions, including one dug up from an Asian American Writers' Workshop in 2017.

In it, Kawas - who holds a Master's in Islamic Liberation Theology from a university in South Africa, connects the attacks on 9/11 to the 'American system'.

'The system of capitalism and racism and white supremacy and Islamophobia have all been used to colonize lands, to take resources from other people, so this is a long trajectory and we're just seeing the manifestations of that continuation with 9/11,' she said.

Kawas added that 'a lot of times when people are asking us to respond about, you know, an attack when if you look back historically, a lot of come from lands that were colonized and where wars were being waged.'

'The idea that we have to apologize for a terror attack that a couple people did and then there is no apology for genocides or slavery is something that I find reprehensible,' she finished.

Mamdani has positioned himself as a firebrand leftist - both he and Kawas are members of the Democratic Socialists of America - with his own anti-Israel activism.

Zohran Mamdani has backed a controversial choice for his replacement in the New York State Assembly who once said 'white supremacy' was to blame for the attacks on September 11, 2001

Aber Kawas, a Palestinian-American activist who only moved to the district last year, has received Mamdani's backing in her fight to take his seat in the state's 36th district in a special election

Commentators on all sides were outraged, with one asking: 'What the hell was Zohran thinking?'

'It is getting absurd how many people seeking political office clearly hate this country and want to destroy the foundational principles that have made it successful,' wrote another.

Another compared it to Mamdani's friendship with leftist Twitch streamer Hasan Piker, who infamously said that America 'deserved 9/11.'

'Why do Zohran Mamdani's supporters keep justifying 9/11?'

Ironically, Kawas's biggest opponent appears to be another DSA member Brian Romero, the deputy chief of staff of Jessica Gonzales-Rojaz, a fellow assembly member set to run for State Senate next year.

The Daily Mail has reached out to both Mamdani and Kawas for comment.

The mayor-elect has recently attempted to make nice with President Donald Trump, who has referred to the 34-year-old as a communist.

Mamdani revealed that he plans to contact Donald Trump before he takes office because his relationship with the president 'will be critical to the success of the city.'

Kawas - who holds a Master's in Islamic Liberation Theology from a university in South Africa , connects the attacks on 9/11 to the 'American system'

The Democratic Socialist confirmed in an interview with NBC New York that he will call Trump before being sworn in.

'It is important that you are open to working with anyone no matter what disagreements you have,' Mamdani said.

'If President Trump wants to speak about lowering the cost of living or delivering cheaper groceries like he ran on [before], I'm here to have that conversation.'

The 34-year-old mayor-elect did not specify when he would contact Trump, but did say: 'when he calls, I'm here to work for the benefit of the people who call this city home.'

'Wherever there is a possibility for working together towards that end, I'm ready. And if [the administrations policies] are to the expense of those New Yorkers, I will fight,' he said.

Mamdani also slammed the president's hardline immigration policies in the interview, adding that he will be 'proactive' in his efforts to combat them.

This astonishing move comes after their tensions reached a fever pitch prior to the mayoral election.

Trump endorsed his longtime rival, former New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo, in a last-ditch effort to stop Mamdani from winning the election.

Ironically, Kawas's biggest opponent appears to be another DSA member Brian Romero, the deputy chief of staff of Jessica Gonzales-Rojaz, a fellow assembly member set to run for State Senate next year

He previously hinted that he would rather a 'bad Democrat' like Cuomo beat Mamdani because New York would turn into a 'complete and total economic and social disaster' under his principles.

The president even threatened on multiple occasions to withhold federal funds from the Big Apple if the 34-year-old came to office.

'If Communist Candidate Zohran Mamdani wins the Election for Mayor of New York City, it is highly unlikely that I will be contributing Federal Funds, other than the very minimum as required, to my beloved first home,' he wrote on social media.

'Because of the fact that, as a Communist, this once great City has ZERO chance of success, or even survival!'

Mamdani lashed back at the president after winning the election, directly addressing him during his victory speech.

'Donald Trump, since I know you're watching, I have four words for you: turn the volume up!' he said.

But the animosity may settle, with Trump saying last week 'let's see how a communist does in New York.'

'We're going to see how that works out, and we'll help him,' he said.

'We'll help him. We want New York to be successful.'

Mamdani also confirmed that he and New York Gov. Kathy Hochul have been working together on ways to relieve pressure from the current administration's threats.
A public school teacher accused of making a joke on a school trip was later sacked and killed himself, the Daily Mail can reveal.

John Wright, 54, taught physics for a decade at 60,000-a-year Marlborough College.

It is one of the most prestigious independent schools in the country and counts the Princess of Wales among its former pupils.

Mr Wright was sacked over the summer following 'inappropriate' comments he allegedly made during an exchange trip to Malaysia and Singapore that were viewed as racist and homophobic.

Now we can reveal that one of the remarks allegedly said by Mr Wright to a pupil which led to his dismissal was: 'No gum, no gays  the gift that keeps giving'

He apparently made the off-hand comment as his group got off at a metro stop in Singapore.

He was believed to have been joking about laws held by both countries the school was visiting on the 17-day trip. In Singapore chewing gum is banned while homosexuality is illegal in Malaysia.

John Wright, 54, taught physics for a decade at 60,000-a-year Marlborough College

The public school, where fees are around 60,000-a-year, is one of the most prestigious independent schools in the country which numbers Princess Kate among former pupils

A source with knowledge of the trip told the Daily Mail: 'John was a lovely teacher and friend. He was known for making flippant comments and would often do that in front of pupils and senior teachers.

'But he didn't mean any offence, it was just him being cheeky and silly.'

Mr Wright was found by his wife Rachel, at the family home in Marlborough, Wiltshire, a ten-minute walk from the college, in the early evening of November 3, having apparently taken his own life.

An inquest opened last week at Wiltshire Coroner's Court and gave the cause of death as asphyxiation with compression of the neck structures by a ligature. The inquest was adjourned.

Marlborough College officials have insisted that Mr Wright was sacked for serious 'inappropriate conduct' which led to an internal disciplinary hearing.

But the emergence of new details around his dismissal have further enraged his devastated family who claim that he was harshly treated by the college over what they insist were 'innocuous comments'.

They say Mr Wright was suspended without warning, despite having a spotless employment record.

The Princess of Wales attended the school for four years from 1996 to 2000

They say that the family have not been given any information on how the internal investigation was conducted or the exact nature of comments made by him.

They also say the college failed to listen to other teachers on the trip who defended Mr Wright and praised his conduct.

A source close to the family said: 'The way John was treated was outrageous. These were not offensive comments. Perhaps you could say they were inappropriate, but they shouldn't have led to his sacking.

'We would want the inquest to focus on the college's conduct that led to his state of mind that drove him to suicide. The school needs to examine its safeguarding and disciplinary process.'

The source added: 'This is all part of a stricter safeguarding regime at Marlborough and staff are genuinely concerned about their careers and there is a sense of mistrust and fear among them.

'They are horrified at what's happened because John was an outstanding physics teacher.'

Sources at the college insist that a number of allegations against Mr Wright were substantiated and that he was found to have made discriminatory comments, some of which were directed at pupils. They insist that he was sacked following a thorough disciplinary process.

However, a close friend and former colleague of Mr Wright's claimed there is a 'culture of fear' at the prestigious college with staff fearful of disciplinary proceedings because of allegations by pupils, most of whom come from wealthy backgrounds.

The friend, who did not want to be named said: 'The pupils are incredibly entitled and believe they have the right to make accusations against you if you challenge them.

'The parents always back them. They are paying a lot of money, they are usually powerful people, and the college can't afford to alienate them. As a teacher you are at the whim of every child at Marlborough and if you cross them that could be the end of your job.'

Marlborough is the UK's largest co-educational boarding school attended by around 1,000 domestic and international pupils.

Mr Wright was found by his wife Rachel, at the family home in Marlborough, Wiltshire, a ten-minute walk from the college, in the early evening of November 3

Mr Wright was one of a group of teachers to accompany pupils on what is known as the Shell exchange programme in which they get to experience life at Malaysia's Marlborough College, which was established in 2012 as an offshoot of the UK school.

Photos on the college website show pupils taking part in a range of activities while in Malaysia and Singapore. There is no mention of Mr Wright.

The school said it offered 'its heartfelt condolences to John Wright's family. Our thoughts are with them, as well as John's friends and others in the Marlborough community who will have been affected. It would be inappropriate to comment further.'

The Princess of Wales boarded at Marlborough College between 1996 and 2000.

For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123 or visit samaritans.org
A group of criminology students helped police in Texas solve a woman's murder more than three decades later.

Janie Perkins, 63, was arrested by US Marshals on Monday in connection with the 1991 murder of 25-year-old Cynthia Gonzalez, after students at the University of Texas Arlington pointed to her as a prime suspect.

Gonzalez, a mother-of-one who was working as an 'adult entertainer,' was last seen leaving her home on September 16, 1991 to meet a 'client,' police said, and her ex-husband reported her missing the next day.

During an ensuing search, cops located her abandoned vehicle - prompting authorities to investigate whether she had been kidnapped.

But on September 22, Gonzalez's body - which had been shot multiple times - was found decomposing on private property in a rural part of Johnson County.

Over the years, police received several leads, but were not able to make any arrests until the students started reviewing the case in the fall as part of a new partnership between the University of Texas Arlington and the police department.

Students in the criminology program were selected for the new course based on their previous coursework and essay expressing their interest in helping law enforcement, the Fort Worth Star-Telegram reports.

The students were then given flash drives containing 'massive amounts of paperwork' with all of the case files and related evidence - except for physical items -to three cold cases in Arlington, said Patricia Eddings a senior lecturer at the school's Department of Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Janie Perkins, 63, was arrested on November 6 in connection with a 34-year-old cold case

Students at University of Texas Arlington reviewed the case files and helped solve the murder

It was seen as helpful for the local police department because it does not have a full-time cold case unit, and detectives can only work on unsolved murders between active, current investigations.

'When we launched our cold case partnership with UTA, we always hoped we'd get an outcome like this one day,' Police Chief Al Jones said in a statement.

'I don't think any of us expected that lightning would strike the first time,' he added before thanking the students 'for their work and dedication to this case.'

Those students reviewed up to 500 files related to Gonzalez's case, when Perkins started to stand out as a suspect, NBC News reports.

They realized that officers back in the 1990s learned that Perkins and Gonzalez were good friends and shared a romantic partner.

But just weeks before Gonzalez was murdered, the unidentified partner told Perkins he was ending his relationship with her to be with Gonzalez.

When she was then questioned about her friend's murder, Perkins had no alibi for the night Gonzalez went missing and failed two voluntary polygraph tests when she was asked if she knew who was responsible for Gonzalez's death and disappearance.

She even told cops she was glad Gonzalez was dead and had thought about killing her or having someone else do it.

Cynthia Gonzalez, 25, a mother-of-one who was working as an 'adult entertainer,' was last seen leaving her home on September 16, 1991 to meet a 'client' before she was reported missing

However, Perkins was never charged in the case as polygraph tests are not admissible in court and there was no actual evidence tying her to the case.

Cops have since reviewed the case, including once just last year, but investigators 'did not believe there was any new evidence or leads to pursue' and instead agreed to 'keep the case open.'

But when the students started asking questions about Perkins, detectives returned to the investigation files and discovered that witnesses had said she admitted she was involved in her friend's murder and mentioned specific details that were not publicly available.

'Detectives compared those witness statements to the evidence in the case and found they aligned,' police said. 'They believe this demonstrated Ms. Perkins either participated in or facilitated Ms. Gonzalez's kidnapping and murder.'

Perkins was then arrested by US Marshals in Axle, Texas on November 6 and was charged with one count of capital murder.

She was then booked in Tarrant County Jail, but was released on a $150,000 bond.

Still, Perkins' arrest marked an end to the mystery that has haunted Jessica Roberts, who was only six years old when her mother was murdered, for the past 34 years.

Her daughter Jessica Roberts expressed thanks to the college students for their work

'I am so thankful for this program and I'm so proud of these students at UTA, and I'm so thankful for what they have done in the time they've spent and the effort they've put into this case,' she said at a news conference.

She added that she was left feeling 'overwhelmed, shock, excitement, just a mixture of everything' by the news of the arrest, according to the Arlington Report.

Roberts added that she had heard of Perkins but did not know her personally.

'What shocked me the most is, first of all, that it had been solved and an arrest had been made,' she said.

'But who the person was, who was responsible for this - she was apparently a good friend of our mom's and I was shocked that somebody so close could do something like this.'

'The grief never subsided,' Roberts said. 'It came in waves year after year and not even just for me, but for other family members as well and friends of my mom.'

Alyssa Ramirez, a senior criminal justice major at the University of Texas Arlington who is graduating in December and plans to go into law enforcement and become a detective, said she was also glad she could help get Roberts some closure.

'I'm very happy that she's not only getting answers but getting closer to closure as well,' she said. 'And I think that's exactly why I chose this field - to be able to do that for people who haven't been able to.

'When I saw her talking up there, it was really emotional,' she added. 'I'm so thankful we were able to do this for her.'
Gruesome details of a booze and cocaine-fuelled stabbing at a poolside party in a wealthy Sydney suburb can finally be revealed, as the man who knifed a guest prepares to learn his fate.

Jesse William Ratcliff, 32, stabbed a 28-year-old partygoer ten times with a 30cm kitchen knife, perforating his bowels and completely severing an artery in his arm which surgeons had to fight to save.

Ratcliff will be sentenced in the NSW District Court on Friday for recklessly causing grievous bodily harm in a fight which broke out around 1.30am at a party around the pool of a $4million home in North Turramurra on Sydney's leafy upper north shore.

Police facts obtained by the Daily Mail show what really happened in the early hours of Sunday March 24 last year before police and paramedics arrived at the blood-drenched scene.

The Saturday night party was held at the five-bedroom family home of projects executive husband David Harper and his wife Dianne, and was attended by a group of young people including their son, Matthew.

Harper, his partner Ainsley Keir, Austen Malanot and Harper's friend Ratcliff began drinking alcohol around 3pm at an outside table near the pool until 10pm when Malanot invited Ayla Estacio to join them.

Estacio brought along Lazarus Briggs, who had been attending the Wests Tigers match against Cronulla Sharks in an NRL clash at Leichhardt Oval that afternoon.

They arrived at North Turramurra at 10.48pm, with Briggs bringing a bottle of Japanese whisky.

The wild stabbing happened at the $4million family home of Matthew Harper (pictured)

Jesse William Ratcliff will be sentenced on Friday for stabbing partygoer Lazarus Briggs ten times, completely severing the artery in Briggs' bicep

At 2.03am, police and paramedics arrived to find Briggs covered in a large amount of blood, and a bloodied knife at the bottom of the driveway

According to the police facts, he 'appeared to be intoxicated before he arrived' and he and Ratcliff 'were consuming cocaine and other prohibited drugs throughout the evening'.

The facts state that as the party went on, it became clear that Briggs and Ratcliff 'were not getting along'.

At 1.30am, Ratcliff and Estacio went into the kitchen to make an omelette 'and shared the use of a kitchen knife to chop up the ingredients'.

When they returned to the table outside, an argument between Briggs and Ratcliff about the food broke out, with Briggs warning: 'If you want to be rude like that again, we can have it out here or I'm going to slap you.'

Both men stood up at the table and Matthew Harper moved between them to defuse the situation, but Briggs reached around Harper and slapped Ratcliff 'hard in the face'.

Harper told Briggs, 'I think it's time to go, mate', which infuriated Briggs who fired insults back, later telling police he was 'in a rage'.

When Harper again told Briggs to leave, Briggs replied: 'Well, I'll leave and I'm going to take your b***h with me then, c***.'

Harper understood to be a reference to his girlfriend and pointed to the gate, telling Briggs: 'it's time to leave now, c***. It's time to f***ing leave.

'Get the f*** out. Don't speak to my girlfriend like that, you f***wit.'

Briggs then stepped forward and twice punched Harper to the right side of his face, causing a painful eye injury which blurred his vision.

At 1.30am, Ratcliff used a 30cm kitchen knife to chop up ingredients for an omelette, and when he returned to the table outside, an argument about the food broke out

Lazarus Briggs (above) was stabbed ten times with the main artery in his left bicep completely severed which put him at risk of losing his arm, doctors said

Harper then tried to usher Briggs out the gate and onto the driveway, until Briggs suddenly turned and began punching Harper repeatedly in the face.

Harper attempted to get away, but Briggs pressed him up against a car parked in the driveway and punched him three times and once more in the nose and eye.

According to the facts, Harper suffered bruising on his arms, a black eye, a cut to his lip, grazes across his legs and arms.

But at this point, Ratcliff rushed down the driveway holding a 30cm kitchen knife.

Ratcliff punched Briggs, who then tackled Ratcliff and they began to wrestle and throw punches until Briggs had Ratcliff in a headlock 'and appeared to be overpowering him', which 'scared' Ratcliff.

Harper tried to separate Ratcliff and Briggs unsuccessfully, then Ratcliff 'repeatedly' stabbed Briggs, who said: 'What the f*** are you stabbing me with?'

Ratcliff stabbed Briggs ten times in the upper arm, hand, abdomen, thigh, chest and buttocks, causing him to feel 'woozy' before he blacked out.

One of the stab wounds sliced through Briggs' left brachial artery, the major artery in a person's arm, sending blood spurting onto the driveway.

About 1.57am, Keir called Triple-0 and Briggs told the operator: 'I need help. I need someone to help me, I'm going to die.'

Police facts reveal Matthew Harper (above) was repeatedly punched in the face after an argument broke out and he asked a guest to leave

Keir screamed 'what have you done' at Ratcliff, who responded over and over, 'I'm sorry, I'm sorry' as he remained at the scene.

At 2.03am, police and paramedics arrived to find Briggs covered in blood, with more blood on the driveway and a bloodied knife at the bottom.

A large amount of blood had also pooled on the sandstone landscaping outside the Harper family home.

Harper and Briggs were treated at the scene before they were taken to Royal North Shore Hospital, with Briggs' ambulance stopping en route so he could be given blood.

At Royal North Shore, he was immediately placed in the resuscitation bay.

Around 2.30am police arrested Ratcliff, who had sustained facial injuries, and he was taken to hospital under police guard before being charged at Chatswood Police Station with reckless wounding, wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm and affray.

NSW Police originally said two men had been stabbed at the party. They would later drop charges against Ratcliff and indict him on a single charge of recklessly causing grievous bodily harm.

Doctors noted ten stab wounds and two lacerations on Briggs including a '12cm full thickness wound' to the stomach, 10cm and 6cm wounds to his abdomen and 8cm wounds to his left abdomen, left thigh and left buttock.

The five-bedroom family home at North Turramurra of health care professional Dianne Harper and projects executive David Harper where the stabbing occurred

A doctor found the extent of the injury to Briggs' upper left arm 'was limb threatening', the court documents state.

According to police, Ratcliff 'made full admissions' but insisted Briggs 'had been overly aggressive and volatile towards' him.

Ratcliff claimed Briggs had 'smacked' him in the head, called him a 'f***wit', made a sexual advance towards his girlfriend.

According to court documents, Ratcliff had grabbed the kitchen knife and told Briggs: 'You need to f***ing leave.'

Ratcliff told police he held the knife so that Briggs would not come at him, and he 'had no intention of stabbing' Briggs, although 'he admitted he could have left it behind'.

Ratcliff only stabbed Briggs 'while he was being attacked' by him, say the court documents, but he admitted 'he did not render any aid' to his victim afterwards.

Ratcliff will be sentenced by Judge Craig Smith at Central District Court on Friday. The offence carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison.
A heartbroken mother has paid tribute to her 'beautiful' girl who died at the weekend - with police saying the youngster's death is currently being treated as 'unexplained'.

Olivia Curley, 11, was taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow on Sunday after falling ill. She died the following day.

The Hermitage Academy student reportedly had become unwell at home before her condition worsened and she was hospitalised.

Police Scotland has since launched a probe after confirming her death is being treated as 'unexplained'.

The 11-year-old's devastated mother, Samantha Curley, posted a heartfelt message to her 'darling sweetheart' who sadly lost her life on Monday.

'I honestly have no words. I am numb. Thank you everyone who has reached out,' she wrote on social media.

'My beautiful girl gained her angel wings today with everyone that loved her round her she passed peacefully.

'Away up to her nana waiting on her. I know she will be well looked after with Mum waiting on her.

Olivia Curley, 11, (pictured) was taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow on Sunday after falling ill and died the following day. Her death is being treated as 'unexplained'

'Fly high sweetheart. I promise I will keep your little sister safe.'

Friends also shared their support to the grief-stricken parent, with one writing: 'My heart is broken for you.'

Another added: 'Absolutely heartbreaking. I can't begin to imagine what you're going through.'

Local MSP, Jackie Baillie said: 'This is utterly heartbreaking and my thoughts are with the family and all those grieving this tragic loss.

'It is important that we get answers on what caused this death in order to ensure this unthinkable tragedy cannot be repeated.'

A GoFundMe page has also been created by a family friend for Olivia's mother following the tragedy.

Argyll and Bute council said it was 'devastated' to hear of the pupil's death and has offered support to the young girl's loved ones.

A local council spokesperson said: 'We are devastated to hear about the death of one of our pupils who attended Hermitage Academy in Helensburgh.

'Our thoughts are with their family and friends at this awful time. We are providing ongoing support to their family along with staff and pupils at the school.'

A Police Scotland spokesperson said: Around 11.40am on Monday, November 17, we received a report of an 11-year-old girl taken unwell in the Helensburgh area.

'She had been taken to the Royal Hospital for Children in Glasgow on Sunday, November 16, and died on Monday, November 17.

'The death is being treated as unexplained and enquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.'

The Daily Mail has approached Police Scotland and the Scottish Ambulance Service for comment.
A pregnant mom with an autoimmune disease and her nine-year-old son were rushed to hospital after a gang of kids viciously beat them in the street.

Carshawnda Hatter, 33, and her two young kids were walking home from Orville Bright Elementary School in Chicago on Monday when the brutal attack unfolded.

Horrifying video showed the group of school-aged children following the victims on the sidewalk while screaming profanities at them in the moments leading up to the vicious assault.

The mob of kids yelled insults at Hatter and her nine-year-old son in the video, while encouraging the others to 'smack' and beat her.

The rowdy attackers were seen as they cornered the two victims against a chain link fence.

The little boy hugged his mom in an apparent effort to protect her as the group began pummeling her.

Video showed the mob beating the pregnant mother's face while she attempted to shield her son.

A pregnant mom with an autoimmune disease was beaten senseless by a group of schoolkids

Carshawnda Hatter, 33, and her nine-year-old son were rushed to the hospital after the horrific incident

The attackers slammed the pair to the ground, as one kid in a yellow sweatshirt kicked Hatter in the face.

Hatter and her son laid helpless on the ground as the gang of children swarmed them, separating the two then again slamming the nine-year-old to the ground.

The harrowing video showed one of the kids violently ripping Hatter's wig off before punching her face.

The two victims were taken to Trinity Hospital in critical condition after the assault. Hatter filmed a livestream while she was in the hospital.

She panned the camera to her exhausted son who had a red mark on his face from the senseless incident, before panning to her young daughter, who witnessed the assault.

Hatter assured that her children were physically fine, saying 'It's me, I'm the one who had to be in the hospital.'

The pregnant mother also said she has been 'sick' and being treated for sickle cell anemia.

On Tuesday local outlet WGN9 showed the mother and family walking to a meeting with school administrators about the horrific assault.

Police escorted the family as a sea of supporters followed her. Hatter spoke to local media and others gathered outside the school.

The two were taken to Trinity Hospital in critical condition after the assault, Hatter filmed a livestream while she was in the hospital

The attackers 'followed them all the way' home and first attacked her son, before 'dragging' her in the grass

The mother explaining that the gang of kids were waiting along the sidewalk to 'jump' them

The mother explained that the gang of kids were waiting along the sidewalk to 'jump' them.

'I asked my kids to come to the next side of the street with me, so they wouldnt get jumped,' she said.

She added that her attackers 'followed them all the way' home and first attacked her son, before she was 'dragged' in the grass.

Hatter said her son had been bullied for more than two years and the school failed to protect him.

'Im trying to get justice for my son,' she said.

Dozens of supporters chanted 'no justice, no peace' outside the elementary school, demanding the involved kids be punished or expelled.

Authorities said the cause of the attack is unknown, and no arrests have been made, WGN9 reported.

In a statement to FOX 32, Chicago Public Schools expressed their 'horror' over the brutal attack.

Orville T. Bright Elementary School in Chicago

The 33-year-old mother of two taking a selfie, she said her son had been bullied for more than two years and the school failed to protect him

'We are horrified by the attack on this family, and we are working collaboratively with City departments and agencies to provide support to the victims of the attack,' they said in the statement.

'CPS is coordinating closely with the Mayor's Office, CPD, CHA, and other City departments to provide additional support to the family.'

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson also condemned the disturbing attack in a statement on Tuesday.

'I was deeply disturbed to see the video of young people attacking a mother and her child on the Far South Side yesterday afternoon.

'That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence. Leaders from my office have been on the ground all day to coordinate with CPS, CPD, and CHA to respond to this incident.'

He added that additional resources have been deployed to 'maintain public safety' and will continue to monitor the ongoing investigation.
A senior fruit and vegetable manager at Woolworths, accused of humiliating and pursuing a romantic relationship with a colleague young enough to be his granddaughter, has lost his unfair dismissal claim before the Fair Work Commission.

Alexander Pushik, 63, was sacked in May after a 29-year-old colleague complained to the supermarket giant about Facebook messages he sent, including 'I love you' and 'Do you love me'.

Niraz Ghimire, a Nepalese student on a visa, said she ignored the private Facebook messages.

During Woolworths investigation, Mr Pushik said: 'If I had posted it publicly, people may have misinterpreted it. People don't know we're just friends and may think it was something more.'

Mr Pushik argued he sent similar messages to friends and relatives all over the world on social media, and that there was no 'sexual content' as the colleague was like a granddaughter to him.

After his dismissal, Woolworths found more evidence that Mr Pushik tried to start a romantic relationship with Ghimire.

At the office Christmas party in 2024, Ms Ghimire said Mr Pushik stared at her, then rushed up to kiss her cheek, saying: 'You look so beautiful today.'

After the party, he allegedly told Ghimire privately she was 'so pretty', 'beautiful' and 'always looking pretty in photos'.

Woolworths has been vindicated after they sacked long serving employee Alexander Pushik for his misconduct towards a colleague half his age

Deputy President Alex Grayson said Pushik's declarations of love and repeated date requests were 'an expression of his desire for an intimate relationship'

He later asked her out for a drink. When she refused, he showed her karaoke videos, saying he had seen she liked it on Facebook.

Mr Pushik admitted sending the messages and defended his Christmas party behaviour as 'normal' among colleagues.

Under cross-examination, Mr Pushik said he wanted to take Ghimire out for dinner or a show, but she wasn't responsive to 'something deeper'.

He said the comments he made about her appearance had no sexual subtext and were either responses to Ms Ghimire's social media content showing her new bags, or to her 'looking very nice.'

Mr Pushik acknowledged he had recently completed Woolworths' code of conduct training module, which highlighted that complimenting someone can be sexual harassment even if it's not your intention to offend.

But he argued that if a person doesn't say they are offended by a compliment, how could someone know their conduct is unacceptable? He said that if his conduct was unwelcome, then Ms Ghimire could have blocked him.

'I insist that in no way and in any of my actions or messages I have violated any of subsections of Woolworths policy on sexual harassment,' he wrote in his dismissal application.

'I didn't have any feedback from [Ms Ghimire] on any of the emojis or messages.

The Fair Work Commission ruled the mans repeated compliments, declarations of love and attempts to take the colleague on dates were not innocent and amounted to misconduct, rejecting his bid for reinstatement

'If all of my love messages and emojis were taken into account I could be accused of sexual harassment not only of my friends and family members, but of their dogs, cats, ferrets and other pets.'

He also submitted that he felt 'betrayed, backstabbed and disgusted' by the victim's failure to address his behaviour with him directly.

Ms Ghimire gave evidence his behaviour was 'humiliating' and that he is 'old enough to be my grandfather and as a manager superior to me.'

'It was an incredibly difficult decision for me to come forward and report Alexander's conduct,' she said.

'I was concerned about the potential impact on his employment, but I also felt I could no longer tolerate his behaviour towards me.

'As an international student, I was deeply worried about becoming involved in any legal processes, given the challenges of balancing my studies, maintaining my academic performance, and managing the emotional stress of the situation.'

Ms Ghimire said his behaviour made her 'feel sick' and caused her anxiety, sleep disturbances and weight loss.

'Knowing that he would sometimes message me on Facebook at 2am or 4am made me feel extremely uncomfortable,' she said.

The 63-year-old sent a a series of I love you texts to a 29-year-old colleague

'I didn't feel like I was able to ask him to stop or to block him on Facebook because he was significantly older than me and held a managerial position, which made the situation feel intimidating.

'I never saw Alexander acting like this with other colleagues.'

Woolworths said one of the most significant factors in its decision to sack Mr Pushik's was his apparent lack of remorse about his conduct.

'Woolworths takes sexual harassment very seriously because of the harm it causes our people,' they said.

'He denied that his conduct was inappropriate and instead offered justifications, suggesting that his behaviour was typical and consistent with how he interacted with others.'

Fair Work Commission Deputy President Alex Grayson said Mr Pushik's declarations of love and repeated date requests were 'an expression of his desire for an intimate relationship'.

'There is a significant difference between loving someone's travel pictures, thanking someone for helping you out in the workplace or placing a thumbs up or a heart on a message and telling someone that they are a beautiful girl, that you love them and asking them on a date,' she said.

'Having considered the evidence filed and submissions made by the parties I have determined that Mr Pushiks dismissal was not harsh, unjust or unreasonable.
Stands by calls for 4WD ban on beaches

A leading ecologist has been bombarded with death threats following calls to restrict four-wheel-drive access on popular beaches.

Professor Thomas Schlacher, from Queensland's University of the Sunshine Coast, has long argued that heavy vehicle traffic is damaging fragile marine habitats.

His concerns sparked national debate earlier this year when he proposed limiting 4WDs on stretches of sand that support vulnerable bird species and other coastal wildlife.

Professor Schlacher expected opposition from motorists but was not prepared for the barrage of hostile backlash that followed.

The torrid abuse began online, including a comment that asked: 'How many college professors can we bury on a beach?'

The threats then escalated, culminating in an anonymous note left in his letterbox that read 'we know where you live', accompanied by a photo of his car.

The Austrian-born academic had no option but to temporarily relocate his family to the US - a move he described as unsettling but necessary for their safety.

'It is very scary. It actually goes beyond just being a keyboard warrior,' he told Nine News.

Professor Thomas Schlacher (above) was forced to flee the country after copping backlash over his advocacy for 4WD restrictions on Aussie beaches

Professor Schlacher has spent three decades studying beach ecosystems across Australia. He is pictured analysing tyre tracks at Bribie Island, off Queensland's south-east coast

Professor Schlacher has spent three decades studying beach ecosystems across Australia.

His research shows that even minimal 4WD activity causes 'unequivocal' and long-lasting damage to dune vegetation, which can destabilise entire coastal ecosystems.

He also found that vehicle disturbance drastically reduces bird diversity, abundance, and breeding success - with nests destroyed, chicks killed, or entire populations displaced.

Some of the behaviour from 4WD enthusiasts he witnessed went far beyond careless driving.

'People actually going directly at birds, driving straight at them, trying to hit them,' he said.

The debate has been most heated on Bribie Island, off Queensland's south-east coast, where up to 1000 4WDs converge every weekend.

A 23km stretch of Ocean Beach is open to 4WDs, making it a major drawcard for off-road enthusiasts.

Off-road vehicles can cause 'irreversible' harm to marine ecosystems. Pictured is a dead Crested Tern on K'gari Island (formerly known as Fraser Island)

As many as 1000 4WDs converge at Bribie Island every weekend (pictured)

Richard Ogden, president of the Bribie Island Environmental Protection Association, agreed with Professor Schlacher, claiming: 'Without changes, Bribies nature will continue to suffer at the hands of unfettered 4WD vehicle access.

He added: 'The parks dunes suffered significantly last summer when TC Alfred stripped away the protective first and second dunes. High-tide 4WDrivers continue to hamper the beachs natural ability to respond.'

Ogden also highlighted the need for balanced management, noting: 'We believe a balanced management plan should allow all visitors - not just 4WD owners - to experience a protected national park safely and sustainably.'

4WD enthusiasts claim that any restrictions would unfairly punish those who follow the rules, while an outright ban would do more harm than good.

'We have a code of conduct that we use to train our members on ways to reduce the impact when they're driving on beaches,' Bundaberg 4WD Club president Brett Lynch told Nine's Today program earlier this year.

'A total ban would have devastating effects, especially on tourism and the local mindset, cost of living and everything these days to get out and get away from your house and from work to relax and unwind and reset.'

Professor Schlacher insists he's not calling for a total ban on 4WD beach driving, contrary to claims from critics.

Instead, he has proposed to reserve half the beach at popular sites across Queensland, NSW and Victoria for vehicles and preserving the rest for wildlife conservation.

He also argued there is a conflict within the Queensland government, pointing to the dual environment and tourism responsibilities held by minister Andrew Powell.

'The government only listens to the 4WD lobby,' Professor Schlacher claimed.

The Queensland Government has claimed tourism and conservation work hand-in-hand. Pictured is a 4WD bogged on the sand

'Because they're powerful and as you have seen, they're violent.'

Powell has rejected calls for 4WD restrictions, saying Queensland's tourism economy depends on maintaining access to iconic beaches.

The minister argued that conservation and tourism can coexist under the state's current strategy, supported by rangers and police officers who enforce environmental protections.

Revenue from camping and vehicle permits is reinvested into beach management programs.

But Professor Schlacher believes that approach falls short.

'The evidence is massive and it's solid and it's unambiguous. It's worldwide,' he said.

'And you can just basically say it is the worst thing you can do in terms of how to use a beach.'

Daily Mail contacted Professor Schlacher and Minister Powell for comment.
The United Kingdom has expanded its travel safety advisory, adding 11 more countries, including Bangladesh, India, Iran, Jordan, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Morocco, Nepal, Papua New Guinea and Rwanda, to its methanol poisoning watchlist amid rising global cases linked to contaminated alcoholic drinks.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) said the update followed a surge in reported incidents worldwide.

The latest additions come weeks after Ecuador, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Nigeria, Peru, Russia, and Uganda were listed, following several high-profile deaths, including six tourists in Laos in 2024.

Travellers have been cautioned that even minimal amounts of methanol can trigger blindness or death within 12 to 48 hours. Methanol, an industrial alcohol found in products like antifreeze and paint thinner, is sometimes illicitly mixed into alcoholic beverages to reduce production costs. It is odourless and tasteless, making it impossible for consumers to detect.

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Foreign Office Minister Hamish Falconer urged travellers to remain vigilant.

"If you're drinking spirits overseas, stick to trusted places and avoid homemade alcohol or free shots," he warned. "If something feels off--like a hangover far worse than usual or vision problems--seek medical help immediately."

The FCDO is currently running a global awareness campaign on identifying symptoms and reducing the risks of methanol poisoning.

Countries now flagged by the UK for methanol-related risks included Brazil, Bangladesh, Cambodia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Fiji, India, Indonesia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Laos, Libya, Malawi, Malaysia, Mexico, Morocco, Nepal, Nigeria, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Russia, Rwanda, Thailand, Turkey, Uganda, and Vietnam.
Jeffrey Epstein repeatedly asked to know Katherine Keating's location and instructed her to 'send me your phone number' in a series of emails sent months after he asked then-prince Andrew to arrange dinner with her.

Emails newly released by the US House Oversight Committee show the daughter of former Australian prime minister Paul Keating was still in contact with Epstein nine months after their meal.

An email dated October 31, 2011, shows Ms Keating sending Epstein and others the foreward to her father's book After Words, a collection of the acerbic-tongued PM's speeches after office.

'Dear Friends, I wanted to share with you the foreword to my father's new book After Words,' said.

'He truly is an inspiration and so is his writing... I will be sure to send you a copy, it's a brilliant read. I trust this email finds you well.'

She signed off with 'Katherine X'.

'Are you here?' Epstein replied. Ms Keating responded that she was in New York City: 'In NY. You?'

'Send me your phone number,' Epstein then added.

A series of email exchanges between socialite Katherine Keating (pictured with her father, former prime minister Paul Keating) and Jeffrey Epstein have been released by the US House Oversight Committee

Jeffrey Epstein (pictured) was convicted of child sex trafficking charges in 2008, and arrested again in 2019. He was found dead in his jail cell in August 2019

Epstein was a convicted paedophile in 2011 when the emails were sent, having spent 13 months in a state prison over child sex trafficking charges in 2008.

A second set of emails - sent days earlier, on October 28 - appears to show Ms Keating sharing with Epstein an article in The Australian newspaper about her father's leadership.

Epstein likewise asked for her location, replying: 'Are you here'?

'Just arrived back from San Fran,' she said.

The new emails follow earlier revelations that Epstein had emailed the former prince, now plain Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, about Ms Keating in February 2011, requesting that he ask her to attend a dinner with Epstein and filmmaker Woody Allen.

Ms Keating told the Mail on Sunday that she accepted the invitation as she had 'only lived in the NY for about ten weeks and was happy to accept the odd social invitation'.

These new messages show the pair were still in touch nine months later.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor, formerly Prince Andrew, emailed Jeffrey Epstein about arranging a dinner with Katherine Keating in February 2011

Prince Andrew waves to Katherine Keating, the daughter of former Australian PM Paul Keating, at Epstein's New York mansion in December 2010

Emails before Congress showed the dinner with Allen came about after Epstein asked Andrew: 'Would you ask Katherine Keating if she would like to come for dinner with Woody Allen next week in New York?'

'Will do,' Andrew replied.

Two days later, on the eve of Andrew's 51st birthday, Epstein wrote: 'What will you do tomorrow? Sorry I cannot be there as you get older.'

Andrew responded: 'Having a very quiet day. But a dinner party in the evening. On the Keating case.'

Ms Keating told the Mail: 'I did attend a February dinner at Andrew's invitation, a large social event.

'It was a large social event. A sizable chunk of NY society was there, including [American broadcasters] Barbara Walters, Charlie Rose and Katie Couric.'

'At the time, I had only lived in NY about ten weeks and was happy to accept the odd social invitation.'

It is not suggested that Ms Keating engaged in, or had any knowledge of, any improper or illegal conduct by Epstein or his associates.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act was passed in the US Senate on Tuesday night. President Donald Trump (pictured with Epstein in 1997) now has the authority to release the entire trove of files. Above, with Ghislaine Maxwell and Melania Trump

Two months prior to the dinner, Ms Keating was seen in footage leaving Epstein's New York house after a dinner party, with Andrew seen waving goodbye to her.

How Keating came into Andrew's orbit remains unclear.

These emails form part of the so-called Epstein Files, a trove of documents currently under review by U.S. lawmakers.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act was passed in the US Senate on Tuesday night EST by unanimous consent, just hours after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the measure.

President Donald Trump now has the authority to release the entire trove of files himself after repeatedly promising full transparency, which could happen in the early hours of Thursday morning, Australia time.
The grief-stricken parents of a young tourist have abandoned a search for answers as to why their only child died alone from a mysterious poisoning in her Bali party hostel as other guests were rushed to hospital.

Deqing Zhuoga, 24, died in her dorm room at the $9-a-night Clandestino Hostel in Canggu. It was undergoing fumigation for a bed bug infestation at the time; however, The Daily Mail can reveal no pesticides were found in her digestive system.

Her distraught family say they were never contacted by the hostel, local police or the Chinese Embassy to inform them of their daughter's tragic death.

Instead, they were left to desperately post missing person photos on social media and beg for information until a kind-hearted local took it upon themselves to reach out and deliver the devastating news.

The couple, who do not speak English, later sought guidance from monks in China and have now ceased all communication because they believe further questions could disturb their daughter's passage into the afterlife.

According to their cultural beliefs, conflict of any kind would weigh heavily on her spirit and they see allowing her to pass peacefully as their final act of honour.

Her furious friends, however, along with other hostel guests who survived what still appears to be a mass poisoning, have vowed to continue their fight to shut the hostel down, convinced that more lives will be lost if it remains open.

'She was such an amazing friend and had so many cool plans,' her friend Ms Avo told The Daily Mail. 'It can't just end like this it's so unfair.'

Deqing Zhuoga died in her Bali accommodation, which was being fumigated for bed bugs

Ms Zhuoga, 24, was found unresponsive at the $9-a-night Clandestino Hostel in Canggu,

She said they are calling on the government to crack down on the dangers tourists are exposed to on the island, claiming that incidents like this are 'happening almost everyday in Bali.'

Ms Zhuoga collapsed after falling violently ill on August 31, just days after the hostel had been fumigated for a raging bedbug outbreak that had triggered months of furious online complaints.

Around 20 guests began vomiting with at least 10 having to seek medical treatment and one admitted to ICU fighting for her life.

Ms Zhuoga was found unresponsive in her dorm by hotel staff on September 2 about 11am and pronounced dead.

Her family in China had no idea she was even ill, but they hadn't heard from her since August 31, so were already deeply worried.

Their calls and messages went unanswered, and, unable to speak English with Bali locals or other tourists, her parents asked Ms Zhuoga's cousin to help.

Her cousin quickly began contacting friends and posting to social media with pleas for information, eventually working out her last known location was the hostel.

On September 6, four days after her death, she sent a desperate message via social media asking whether Ms Zhuoga was still staying there.

Several guests collapsed with vomiting and chills at Canggu's Clandestino Hostel

Ms Zhuoga's cousin began sending messages to try to find her

It was not until the next day that the hostel replied, but instead of explaining the devastating situation or requesting contact details so authorities could speak with the family, they simply told them to reach out to the police and offered no further help.

The message read: 'Dear Madam, We understand you are looking for Deqing and this must be very worrying for you.

'The police have been involved in a matter concerning her, and they will need to be the ones to provide you with any information.

'We recommend contacting the local police or embassy for all and any information.

'Unfortunately the police have not shared details regarding her case so we are unable to give more information at this time. Regards, Clandestino.'

Ms Avo has slammed the hostel's response, saying they did not offer any contact details for the local police which left the family with no idea who to approach.

She said the parents had already contacted the embassy, but received no information because the hostel had reported her nationality incorrectly.

It was only when the family found a local willing to help that a staff member quietly confirmed what had happened.

Friend Ms Avo has slammed the hostel's response

Officials moved her body to two different morgues without telling the family

Her parents then began the painstaking task of locating her body as it had been moved twice to different morgues without ID.

'They do not even speak English, probably this does not even make any sense to them,' Ms Avo said. 'They just saw what happened to their daughter and now they have to accept it which is so hard.

'Their heart is broken, having put all efforts into raising her up and preparing everything for their only child. But I understand they just want peace now.'

The head of Badung Police's investigation unit, First Inspector Azarul Ahmad, said on Wednesday that witnesses had been interviewed and Ms Zhuoga's vomit was examined by Denpasar Forensic Laboratory.

'There were no pesticide compounds, narcotics, cyanide, heavy metals such as arsenic, hazardous chemicals, or methanol detected,' he said.

An examination of the medicines and food items in her bag was pending, he said, and while an autopsy had found no signs of violence on her body, it did show telltale signs of food poisoning.

'The exact cause of death cannot be definitively determined, however, death due to gastrointestinal irritation leading to diarrhea, which resulted in dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, cannot be ruled out.'

According to the police report, Ms Zhuoga was initially taken to a doctor by hostel staff, but they claim she expressed concerns about paying for treatment and was returned to her dorm.

According to the police report Ms Zhuoga was initially taken to a doctor by hostel staff

The following morning, receptionist Eka Ayu discovered she had not checked out.

She unlocked the door and found the young woman face down, wearing only an unbuttoned blue shirt.

Police found vomit in a rubbish bin beside the bed and a post-mortem concluded her death from acute gastroenteritis and hypovolemic shock would likely have been preventable with proper medical treatment.

Ms Zhuoga had shared a communal dinner hours earlier with fellow guest Leila Li who survived after spending five days in intensive care.

Shortly after the dinner, guests began collapsing in hallways, vomiting blood, fainting and begging staff for medical help.

More than 20 people suffered collective poisoning and at least 10 were in critical condition.

By morning the sickness had ripped through the dorms with multiple guests admitted to local medical centres and the BIMC hospital.

Ms Li said by the time she was taken away in an ambulance her roommate was too ill to move and that she 'messaged her from hospital telling her to go too', but she never replied.

Rooms were sealed after more than 20 people suffered collective poisoning

Ms Li said by the time she was taken away in an ambulance her roommate was too ill to move

'My doctor confirmed it was pesticide poisoning and food poisoning,' she said.

'I improved when I left the hostel, but when I returned to the room the symptoms came back.'

She said Ms Zhuoga mentioned that an adjacent dorm had recently been closed for fumigation after a severe bedbug infestation.

Ms Li along with travellers Melanie Irene, Alisa Kokonozi, Alahmadi Yousef Mohammed, Cana Clifford Jay and Leslie Zhao were later listed as victims in the official Kuta Police report.

Inspector Ahmad has confirmed that due to so many guests experiencing identical symptoms the hostel will be subject to further investigation, but survivors say authorities have been far too slow and fear more travellers could be hurt.

'They are trying to cover it up and I want to warn people so this does not happen again,' Ms Li said.
A 29-year-old prison officer faces time behind bars after confessing to having an 'inappropriate' relationship with an inmate.

Zoe Oldham appeared at Liverpool Crown Court to plead guilty to charges of misconduct in a public office during her service at HMP Risley in Warrington.

The prison guard had participated in an 'inappropriate relationship' with an inmate between March 1, 2023 and December 19, 2023, the court heard.

She wore a beige coat and a black dress, and spoke only to confirm her name as well as her date of birth.

Mitigating, Damian Nolan, said there were over 1,100 messages of evidence in the case, while adding his client admitted to the charges lodged against her.

'This lady has young children. Perhaps for obvious reasons, I would ask the court to consider sentencing her in the New Year,' he said.

Zoe Oldham (pictured) had participated in an 'inappropriate relationship' with an inmate between March 1, 2023 and December 19, 2023, the court heard

Her co-defendant Lewis Smith was also scheduled to appear yesterday, however his case was postponed due to tech issues with his video link.

Oldham of Lancashire will remain on unconditional bail ahead of a hearing on December 16. She is set to be sentenced on January 9, 2026.

According to the Liverpool Echo, Judge Andrew Menary KC told the mother: 'I am going to adjourn your case for sentencing.

'Sentencing will take place on the 9th of January. The fact that a report is being ordered must not be taken as any indication. These matters are serious.

'You should prepare for the possibility of a custodial sentence. The court will consider all matters which are relevant for sentence.'
Global stock markets tumbled as one of the biggest tech bosses warned 'no company is going to be immune' if the artificial intelligence bubble bursts.

Sundar Pichai, chief executive of Google owner Alphabet, acknowledged there was some 'irrationality' in the current boom.

He told the BBC the growth of the AI sector across financial markets had been an 'extraordinary moment' but admitted even he will not be immune to the impact of the bubble bursting.

Mr Pichai warned the tech sector can 'overshoot' in investment cycles such as this.

The FTSE 100 slumped by 123 points, or 1.3 per cent, on Tuesday wiping 30 billion off its value, in the fourth day of losses for the index of leading UK shares. Among the biggest losers were crypto investors.

They have seen the value of Bitcoin slump to levels seen at the end of last year, wiping out a rally that saw it hit a record high last month.

More than $1 trillion has been erased from the value of all cryptocurrencies over the past six weeks, analysts said.

It follows growing warnings over recent weeks that the surge in US tech share prices linked to the AI revolution had been overdone.

Sundar Pichai (pictured), chief executive of Google owner Alphabet, acknowledged there was some 'irrationality' in the current boom

JP Morgan vice-chairman Daniel Pinto told a Bloomberg conference that AI stocks were overvalued and due for a 'correction'.

And the Bank of England has recently drawn comparisons between the present situation and the so-called 'dotcom' crash when the mania for early internet stocks came to a shuddering halt 25 years ago.

The International Monetary Fund has issued a similar warning. Axel Rudolph, senior technical analyst at investing platform IG, said a stock market and cryptocurrency 'rout' was 'in full swing'.

Victoria Scholar, head of investment at Interactive Investor, confirmed there was a 'sea of red' across global stock markets.

She said: 'Fears of an AI bubble and concerns about the market's heavy dependence on a handful of tech giants have caused investors to dial back their exposure.

'There's a general sense of nervousness that has captured the market mood lately.'

Anxiety is building this week over two key events that could either confirm their worst fears or allay market worries.

Tonight marks a critical moment as investors review computer-chip maker Nvidia's quarterly results to determine if its massive success in the AI sector creates enough profit and accelerated growth to keep backing it.

And a report about the US job market is due to be released tomorrow, inciting global fear about what may happen in the markets if tariffs are increased.
A British-made pocket watch has been sold at auction for a world record 2.1 million.

The intricate timepiece, which features moon-phase tracking, an alarm and a built-in thermometer, has been described as 'one of the world's most complicated vintage pocket watches ever made'.

The piece, which was created in 1907 by Coventry watchmaker Joseph Player, had been expected to reach around 1 million when it went under the hammer in Geneva.

Instead, it far surpassed expectations, achieving 2,238,000 Swiss francs, the equivalent of 2,122,896, and leaving auction watchers stunned.

Among those in the room was Player's great-great-grandson, Carl, who travelled to Switzerland to witness the sale firsthand.

He told the BBC: 'The day before they invited us to the exhibition so I actually got to hold the watch.

'Even though I didn't meet my great-great-grandfather, by holding that watch, I felt a connection to him.'

The watch has been described as 'one of the world's most complicated vintage pocket watches ever made'

The intricate timepiece, which features moon-phase tracking, an alarm and a built-in thermometer

The historic sale at Phillips' Decade One auction in Geneva set a world record for an antique British pocket watch.

Auctioneers said the J Player & Sons Hyper Complication Pocket Watch 'demonstrated the incredible technical prowess of English watchmaking at the time' and called it 'one of the most complicated English timepieces ever made.'

The firm was founded in 1858 by Joseph Player who created the first keyless watch and made devices for the Royal Observatory.

In the 1900s, England was the home of watch-making before Switzerland.

The watch took four years to make and was kept by its previous owner, who remains anonymous, for 51 years.

The two-day sale drew 1,885 registered bidders across 72 countries and nearly 800 collectors and enthusiasts attended in person.

A spokesperson for the auctioneers said: 'The atmosphere throughout the weekend reflected a sense of friendship and celebration.'
China's spies are relentlessly targeting the UK Parliament, MI5 warned yesterday as it issued an unprecedented espionage alert.

In a move that makes a 'mockery' of Labour's attempts to cosy up to the hostile state, the agency took the unusual step of naming two female recruiters.

The women, controlled by Chinese intelligence services, sent 'thousands' of messages to MPs, aides and parliamentary staff to trick them into divulging 'sensitive information'.

The Security Service warned MPs and Lords that Shirly Shen, of the Internship Union, and Amanda Qiu, of BR-YR Executive Search, had been 'prolific' in attempts to 'interfere with our processes and influence activity at Parliament'.

Targets are said to include politicians who have held roles at the highest level.

The pair spent years building contacts 'at scale' with scores of people working in key roles in Government and Parliament to infiltrate the heart of British democracy, the Daily Mail has learned.

The MI5 alert comes after Labour was accused of making the UK a 'soft target' after the collapse of the prosecution of ex-parliamentary researcher Christopher Cash and his friend Christopher Berry, who were accused of passing secrets to Beijing.

In the latest spy scandal, those targeted by the fake headhunters include a former staff member for Dame Priti Patel, ex-Tory special adviser James Price and someone working for Conservative MP Neil O'Brien, who is Kemi Badenoch's head of policy.

China's spies are relentlessly targeting the UK Parliament, MI5 warned yesterday as it issued an unprecedented espionage alert

The MI5 alert names two headhunters Amanda Qiu, of BR-YR Executive Search, and Shirly Shen, of Internship Union

The Daily Mail understands that the accused pair led large, well-resourced teams in China pumping out thousands of messages, making attractive financial offers for 'insight' on Government policy and sensitive matters such as sanctions and military capability.

The two women boasted on LinkedIn of their links to major firms and ability to nurture 'exceptional talent', as well as establish international internships.

Ms Qiu had built an extensive list of contacts online, indicating she was in contact with civil servants at the Treasury, the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, a Welsh Parliament official and consultants at Westminster public affairs agencies.

Others listed as contacts were former special advisers to a Conservative chancellor and an Education Secretary, and members of think-tanks, including the Tony Blair Institute. A senior party official at Reform UK, a former Liberal Democrat candidate, a senior aide in the House of Lords, Amazon employees and staff at the likes of University College London and the London School of Economics were also listed.

Ironically, Ms Qiu posted on LinkedIn just last week: 'When you're focused on your own mission, the noise from the outside world can hardly distract you.'

Shadow foreign secretary Dame Priti yesterday accused the Government of putting up 'the white flag' after learning one of her former staff members had been contacted by Ms Shen, who claimed she was 'looking for a political consultant to cooperate'.

The staff member said the message 'looked suspicious' and they 'wrote it off as a spam account'.

Dame Priti said: 'Clearly, China is not letting up. They are resorting to every single method available to them to continue to undermine our Parliament and our democracy.

China sees this Labour Government as weak, spineless and feeble, and they see Britain with the white flag up.' Another victim, Mr O'Brien, said: '[I] can confirm they have tried to contact my staff. UK universities are cancelling research because of Chinese pressure but Labour cancelled the law designed to stop this.

Mr Jarvis said there would be a 'comprehensive package of measures' to 'disrupt and deter' the threat, including a task force specifically geared at protecting politicians

Senior Tory MP Neil O'Brien said the two named headhunters had tried to contact his staff

'China spied on MPs but Labour collapsed the trial. When are we going to wake up?' In the alert circulated by Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle, MPs were told Chinese state actors are 'relentless' in trying to 'interfere with our processes and influence activity at Parliament'.

He warned China was 'actively reaching out to individuals in our community' and wanted to 'collect information and lay the groundwork for long-term relationships, using professional networking sites, recruitment agents and consultants'.

Security minister Dan Jarvis told the Commons: 'China is attempting to recruit and cultivate individuals with access to sensitive information about Parliament and the UK Government.

'This activity involves a covert and calculated attempt by a foreign power to interfere with our sovereign affairs in favour of its own interests, and this Government will not tolerate it.'

He announced an action plan including funding for security programmes, security briefings for political parties, plans to tighten rules on political donations and working with networking sites.

But senior Tories pressed the Government to place China as a top-tier security threat and reject plans for a Chinese super embassy in London. The Prime Minister's spokesman said it will challenge China 'where we must'.

A Chinese embassy spokesman said accusations of espionage were 'pure fabrication'.
An Australian council has declared all-out war on illegal campers, rolling out a major crackdown.

The Shire of AugustaMargaret River has announced a raft of measures, beginning with doubling fines for anyone caught illegally camping.

The council, in Western Australia's southwest, says it is 'moving away from typical enforcement tactics' after the region was 'repeatedly targeted in recent years'.

Just last week, the council held a special meeting to address the illegal camping issue, which has become a coast-to-coast problem for authorities across Australia.

The council admitted 'past measures to combat illegal camping have simply not worked'.

A Shire of AugustaMargaret River spokesperson said the council will double fines from $100 to $200 and involve the community in a 'collaborative way of problem-solving to resolve the issue'.

The council also endorsed the creation of an 'ongoing Illegal Camping and Peak Season Community Working Group' with an approved $30,000 budget for 'quick-win actions ahead of the 202526 summer'.

Shire of Augusta Margaret River President Julia Jean-Rice said the impacts of illegal camping are significant.

Shire of Augusta Margaret River President Julia Jean-Rice said the 'impacts of illegal camping are significant'

The Shire of Augusta Margaret River has announced a raft of measures beginning with doubling fines for anyone court illegally camping

Ms Jean-Rice highlighted concerns including human waste, reduced beach access and safety issues while adding 'enforcement alone isn't effective'.

'For years, residents have raised concerns about the impacts of illegal camping and peak season pressures,' Ms Jean-Rice told Yahoo Australia.

'These impacts are real and felt daily by our community, human waste in public spaces, safety concerns in car parks, reduced access to beaches and natural areas, and pressure on local amenities.

'We know it's been a persistent issue, and our aim is to work more transparently and collaboratively with our community to better manage it.

'Traditional responses to illegal camping have relied on enforcement, and while that remains an essential tool, experience shows that fines alone are not effective.'

Ms Jean-Rice also called illegal camping a 'complex community issue' which 'requires nuance, local knowledge and sustained attention'.

'And the kind of adaptive problem-solving that can only come from genuine partnership between community and council,' she said.

'It's also really important to note that not all campers are the same  some are people experiencing homelessness.'

The council admitted 'past measures to combat illegal camping have simply not worked'

Illegal camping has become an increasing issue across the country and particularly in coastal and tourist regions

The council said its actions will focus on four key areas: infrastructure improvements, targeted compliance and enforcement, education and awareness campaigns, and regional collaboration.

It claimed the initiatives will be 'phased across short-medium and long-term timelines' to deliver 'longer-term solutions through 2027-28.'

Ms Jean-Rice said the council will 'explore installing gates to manage access at Barrett Street Weir' depending on the result of community feedback.

The council said this area is 'frequently targeted' by illegal campers.

It will also roll out other measures to curb illicit camping across the region, which include updated ranger patrol routes, improved signage and messaging, and closer collaboration with the Department of Biodiversity, Conservation and Attractions.

A full evaluation of the issues will be put to the council early next year for discussion regarding budget decisions and to 'refine the road map' for 2027.

Illegal camping has become a growing problem across the country, especially in coastal and tourist hotspots.

The scourge has sparked rising tension between residents, councils and visitors as the environmental damage, litter and strain on public amenities become increasingly obvious.
Fugitive father Tom Phillips, who evaded capture for almost four years with his three children, may have had even more hidden campsites that remain undiscovered, police suggest.

Phillips was killed in a shootout near the rural town Piopio on September 8 after being intercepted with his daughter following an armed robbery at a farm supply store.

For years, he had avoided police after vanishing from the rural town of Marokopa in December 2021 with his children after a bitter custody battle with their mother.

Last month, new photos emerged of two secret bush hideouts, discovered by police in the rugged terrain on the remote coastal settlement of Marokopa.

Investigators said they believed Phillips relied on these hideouts for years, aided by a small network of supporters who helped him remain one step ahead of authorities.

The photos showed camouflaged structures buried under thick vegetation, with tarpaulins and bush materials blending seamlessly into the landscape.

But, on Wednesday, police indicated Phillips may have had more hideouts than officers had already found in the 'dense and difficult to navigate' around Marokopa.

'While we believe we have found the primary campsites, it is not possible to say with absolute certainty that we have found every site where the family stayed,' police said.

Fugitive Tom Phillips (pictured) was killed in a shootout near rural town Piopio on September 8

For years, Phillips had avoided police after vanishing from the rural town of Marokopa in December 2021. Police said he used campsites to evade authorities

Phillips took his three kids into the bush after a dispute with their mother four years ago

Detective Superintendent Ross McKay said their investigations had found Phillips and the children had moved between the sites.

Investigators are still working to identify those who may have assisted Phillips during his years on the run.

But police added that they have had 'helpful information' from the local community. Anyone who can help police inquiries has been urged to come forward.

Phillips first vanished with his three children in December 2021, just months after an earlier disappearance sparked alarm.

The case gripped New Zealand and triggered a nationwide manhunt and intense public debate over how Phillips managed to conceal himself and his three children.

Police say the terrain was 'difficult, steep and almost completely obscured by dense bush,' making searches painstaking and dangerous.

Specialist units, including the Armed Offenders Squad and the New Zealand Defence Force, were deployed during the years-long search.

Despite the tragic ending, police insist their top priority was the safety and wellbeing of the children, who were eventually recovered unharmed.

Various items were pictured at the site where the family hid out, including a quad bike, motor bike, tarpaulin, an air compressor and camping gear

Police indicated Phillips may have constructed more hideouts than those they had found in the 'dense and difficult to navigate' around Marokopa

Phillips was shot dead near the rural town of Piopio on September 8 after being intercepted with his daughter following an armed robbery at a farm supply store.

When officers deployed road spikes, Phillips opened fire at close range, shooting one officer in the head and leaving him critically injured.

Phillips was with his eldest daughter Jayda, 12, at the time of the deadly shootout.

She later guided police to a campsite about 2km away, where her two younger siblings were discovered hiding.
When people start new jobs in real life, they wait a few days to settle in. They're on their best behaviour, and they don't moan that it was much better at their old place.

This is the very opposite of the way things are done on television.

The latest example is Channel 5's Cooper & Fry, another crime drama which sounds like a firm of estate agents (see also Scott & Bailey, McDonald & Dodds).

Diane Fry (Mandip Gill) is an ambitious detective constable who has moved from Leeds to the Peak District under mysterious circumstances.

This has something to do with text messages she gets from an obvious stalker called Dave.

Fry is charmless and self-important, and rebuffs all attempts at welcome. Good grief, she even refuses cake.

She has barely found her new desk at Edendale police station when she's teamed with DC Ben Cooper (Robert James-Collier).

He is easy-going, very much a local boy, and  as we discover later  the son of a murdered sergeant at the station. 'We're a close team here,' he advises. 'You might want to make an effort.'

Pictured: Cover of Channel 5's Cooper & Fry

'I like to keep my work and private life separate,' she replies. Snooty, or what?

As they investigate the discovery of a body at a remote farm, there is plenty of eyebrow-raising from Fry at Cooper's approach. Yet it seems she's not as clever as she thinks she is.

'We don't want to cause you any distress,' she tells the elderly and confused farmer, now in a care home, 'but were you aware that human remains were buried on your farm?'

No, Constable, that won't cause the poor old chap any distress at all.

Actually, by that time there were two bodies  one without a head, the other without a hand.

We were thus plunged into a tale of superstition and folklore, involving a 'Screaming Skull' supposed to fend off evil spirits, tarot cards, and a farmer who keeps his brother's head in a wardrobe.

But the motive turned out to be much more worldly  the care home nurse and her farmer father were running a crystal meth factory.

Just as the murdering father was about to finish off Cooper with a hunting rifle, he was walloped on the back of the head with a plank of wood by Fry, thus cementing the team for future episodes.

The closing moments tantalised us with the promise of more mystery to come. The killer of Cooper's father has never been found. So young Cooper keeps an evidence wall at his flat.

And mysterious Dave is now threatening to find Fry  'wherever she is'.

That shouldn't be too difficult. Especially when all the papers go big on 'Newcomer Fry helps crack headless body mystery'.
ANZ chief executive Nuno Matos will be grilled by a parliamentary committee as the bank faces a record $240 million penalty for widespread misconduct.

The corporate regulator has accused ANZ of mishandling a bond sale, potentially costing the federal government $26 million, as well as misconduct against nearly 65,000 retail customers.

The bank has agreed to cop the penalty - the largest ever imposed on a single entity by the regulator - which the Federal Court will need to approve.

ANZ incorrectly reported bond trading data to the government by tens of billions of dollars.

It's also accused of failing to refund fees charged to thousands of customers who had died.

The bank maintained the government lost nothing in the bond sale and said while ANZ breached some of its licensing obligations, it was not accused of market manipulation or over-hedging.

Despite that fine being the highest in ASIC's history, committee chair Ed Husic said the bank got off lightly.

'It should have been higher,' the Labor MP told AAP.

ANZ chief executive Nuno Matos gathers his thoughts ahead of a parliamentary committee in Canberra, where he's expected to cop a grilling

ANZ is accused of widespread misconduct, which includes ripping off 65,000 customers

ANZ also announced in 2025 it is slashing its workforce by eight per cent across its institutional and retail divisions.

National Australia Bank chief executive Andrew Irvine will also appear before the committee after Commonwealth and Westpac bosses were grilled.

Surcharges on card payments and the government's five per cent deposit home loan scheme were on the agenda in Canberra on Tuesday.

The inquiry heard the Reserve Bank was reviewing the nation's payment system and suggested removing surcharges on eftpos, Mastercard and Visa cards, which would save consumers more than $1 billion a year.

Commonwealth Bank chief executive Matt Comyn said he supported the proposal 'in essence', but urged the RBA not to be too hasty with the changes.
Scientists study bacteria samples from across Latin America to track and control the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR).

Asmara, 18 November 2025 - The Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministries of Agriculture and Land, Water and Environment, as well as UN partners, has commenced the World Antimicrobial Resistance Awareness Week campaign under the theme "Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future." The campaign is scheduled to take place from 17 to 24 November.

At the launching event held on 17 November at the National Confederation of Eritrean Workers Hall in Asmara, representatives of partner institutions delivered messages of support.

At the event, discussion papers were presented focusing on Multi-Drug Resistant Klebsiella Pneumoniae, a cross-sectional study conducted on bacterial pathogens and outcomes, and investigations into antimicrobial resistance patterns in urinary tract infections. The participants, for their part, conducted extensive discussions on the papers presented.

Speaking to Erina, Dr. Mulugeta Russom, Head of Drug Side-Effect Management at the National Medicine and Food Administration and coordinator of the program, said that the objective of the event is to enhance the awareness of health and agricultural professionals as well as the public at large to ensure the proficient use of medicines and antibiotics.

Dr. Goitom Mebrahtu, Director General of Medical Services at the Ministry of Health, said that this year's theme calls for urgent and collective action on antimicrobial medicines to safeguard the health and well-being of future generations.
An Australian pro-Putin activist who has spent nearly three years holed up inside the Russian consulate in Sydney has claimed that his hosts are trying to 'push' him out.

Simeon Boikov, also known as the 'Aussie Cossack', has launched an extraordinary attack on consulate staff, claiming they have subjected him to 'prison-like' conditions.

The propagandist, who fled to the consulate after assaulting a pro-Ukraine protester in Sydney in December 2022, is expecting a son with his wife in early December.

He claimed that he had been 'locked' in his room, routinely refused visitors and was denied permission to christen his son at the consulate, in Sydney's exclusive Woollahra.

He added that the conditions have left him stressed and on edge.

'I've never felt welcome in this building for one day. The consulate staff did everything possible to try to set me up for failure, to make it so impossible,' Boikov told ABC News.

'It's illogical. And they're poking me. They're poking me and poking me. They want to try and push me out.'

Boikov has been hiding from Australian authorities since for almost three years, since he assaulted a 76-year-old man at a pro-Ukraine rally at Sydney Town Hall.

Simeon Boikov has launched an extraordinary attack on staff at the Russian consulate in Sydney, where he's been holed up for the last three years

Simeon Boikov is is expecting a son with his wife within weeks

He posted a video to his since-suspended YouTube channel after the rally which showed him in a scuffle with the man, who fell backwards down the stairs, and was rushed to hospital with a head injury.

Boikov was on parole at the time of the assault, having just served six months in prison for naming a since-convicted paedophile, contrary to a court suppression order.

Police charged Boikov, revoked his parole and seized his passport after the rally.

After being told he would be taken into custody, he drove straight to the Russian consulate, was granted asylum and has been holed up there ever since.

He was convicted of the assault in his absence in February 2023.

He stressed that his current gripes were directed at 'lower-end bureaucrats' at the consulate, adding that senior officials in Moscow continue to back him and his propaganda efforts.

'I get the feeling that the only thing they want is for me to be taken out of here and sent to prison, and they will be happy with that,' he told the ABC.

Despite his complaints, he insisted he would sooner die inside the consulate than leave and risk another stint behind bars.

Simeon Boikov is pictured at the 'Stand with Russia' rally at the Russian consulate in Sydney in March 2022. He sought refuge there later that year after assaulting a pro-Ukrainian protester

'If I have a medical emergency and I need to call a doctor, don't call the ambulance because I'm not going to leave,' he said.

'Call the funeral company to bring the hearse. I'm not going to leave alive.'

Daily Mail contacted Boikov and the Russian consulate in Sydney for comment.
A South African neo-Nazi facing imminent deportation after attending an anti-Semitic rally says he fears for the safety of his wife and newborn daughter who remain in Australia under his now-cancelled visa.

Engineer Matthew Gruter was one of 60 demonstrators linked to the National Socialist Network who protested outside NSW Parliament on November 9, shouting Nazi slogans and unfurling a large banner that read 'Abolish the Jewish Lobby'.

Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed on Monday that he had cancelled Gruter's work visa in light of the incident, with the foreign national taken into custody hours later by Australian Border Force officers during a predawn raid of his north Sydney home.

Speaking to the Daily Mail from inside Villawood Detention Centre, Gruter said the Home Affairs office had not responded to his family's queries about his wife Nathalie Faydherbe's visa status or legality in the country.

Ms Faydherbe, also from South Africa, is a fitness influencer with more than 20,000 followers who worked as a dance instructor before giving birth to the couple's baby last month.

Her visa status is now uncertain, as she entered Australia as a partner on Gruter's visa.

The Daily Mail does not suggest she holds the same neo-Nazi views as her husband or that she has done anything that would warrant the removal of her visa.

Gruter said Australian Border Force officials have told him they 'won't discuss the visa status of non-detainees with detainees'.

Matthew Gruter (pictured) was one of 60 demonstrators at a neo-Nazi protest outside NSW Parliament house on November 9

He fears his, Nathalie Faydherbe, and their newborn daughter could be placed in detention following his visa cancellation

Gruter is currently being held at Villawood Immigration Detention Centre (pictured)

'My concern is that if she is illegal, or becomes illegal, then she will also be at risk of being raided, handcuffed and dragged off to the detention centre with our newborn,' he said.

Gruter said he is yet to be told when authorities will fly him out of the country, but there has been a suggestion it would happen within a week.

He said, if he is to be deported, the family want to leave on the same flight together.

'Splitting up the family and making my wife fly alone with the baby and all their luggage would be cruel and unreasonable,' he said.

'But ABF confirmed in my interview yesterday that, "Our only priority in this situation is getting me out of the country ASAP. We will deal with your wife and daughter once you are gone."

'Our daughter is one month old and we have no reasonable possibility of getting a passport from the South African High Commission or Consulate in time.

'ABF/Home Affairs will need to assist us in producing emergency travel documents for our daughter - but they have not committed to any assistance in this regard on a timeline that would allow us to leave together.'

Gruter said their abrupt departure means his wife, who is five weeks postpartum, will have to pack up their home and belongings on her own and prepare for them to be shipped back to South Africa.

NSW Premier Chris Minns confirmed the government would aim to establish new laws to crack down on hate speech in the wake of the rally (pictured)

Gruter is pictured at the rally earlier this month

'My wife will have to take the bare essentials including baby stroller, bassinet and car seat with her on her flight, and pay for as much additional luggage allowance as possible,' he said.

'They have indicated to me that they have no obligation to assist with getting me additional luggage allowance for my flight, so I would have to take the minimum.'

Gruter said his wife is not 'medically advised to be doing heavy lifting' or 'packing up boxes and household goods', but 'she has been forced to because the ABF deemed it necessary to detain me within six hours of issuing my visa cancellation'.

He said the ABF should have instead allowed him a few days to assist his wife in packing up their home before allowing them to leave voluntarily together.

Asked by the Daily Mail whether he stands by his decision to protest or whether he now regrets it, Gruter said: 'In time I will reflect and comment on the content and situation surrounding the protest.

'For now I am solely focused on my wife and daughter and leaving together safely.'

Gruter, who has been at Villawood since he was taken into custody at 4am on Tuesday, claims all the other detainees at the facility are 'hardened criminals' from prison and he is the only one who 'hasn't been suspected or convicted of a crime'.

However, under Australia's visa requirements, visitors do not have to be charged or suspected of a crime to face deportation.

Despite his anti-Jewish views, the engineer has a Hebrew tattoo on the inside of his right arm. The phrase reads 'gam ze yaavor' which roughly translates in English to 'This too shall pass'

Under federal migration laws, visas can be cancelled by the minister if the holder does not pass the 'good character' test.

Breaches can include committing criminal offences, associating with groups, organisations or people who have been or are involved with criminal conduct, or 'vilifying a segment' of, 'inciting discord' towards, or 'representing a danger' to the Australian community.

Visa holders are also warned, as part of their migration conditions, that cancellations may result in abrupt deportation.

'If we cancel or refuse your visa on character grounds you may have a limited time to depart Australia or no longer hold a valid visa,' the Home Affairs website reads.

When contacted about Gruter's claims, an Australia Border Force spokesperson said the department 'cannot comment on individual cases'.

'All non-citizens who wish to travel to, enter or remain in Australia must satisfy the requirements of the Migration Act 1958 (the Act) and the Migration Regulations 1994 (the Regulations), including identity, health, character and security requirements,' they said.

'The Australian Government is committed to protecting the Australian community from the risk of harm posed by non-citizens who engage in criminal conduct or behaviour of concern.

'Non-citizens who do not comply with their visa conditions, or who may pose a risk to the health and safety of the Australian community, can expect to have their visas considered for cancellation.'

The rally (pictured) sparked a political firestorm as Australians demanded to know how it managed to be approved

Supporters have frantically set up a fundraising page for Gruter in the wake of his visa being torn up, with donations so far exceeding $23,000.

Some donors have left comments reiterating Nazi rhetoric, including 'HH' (a National Socialist Network abbreviation of Heil Hitler) and 'stay strong white man'.

In announcing the government's ruling on Monday, Burke said: 'If you are on a visa, you are a guest.

'If you're a citizen, you're a full member of the Australian family.

'Like with any household, if a guest turns up to show hatred and wreck the household, they can be told it's time to go home.'

Confirming Gruter's detention on Tuesday, Burke said: '(We're) not only confident of our legal position, but also confident of the values of this country.'

'We are a decent, welcoming country, and the sort of hatred that was involved in that protest has nothing to do with Australia.'

The protest drew intense criticism, with NSW Premier Chris Minns branding those involved 'pissants' and flagging another tightening of protest laws in response.

Police said a communication error within the force meant some senior officers - including Commissioner Mal Lanyon - not being aware the protest was taking place.

Minns has since confirmed the government would aim to establish new laws to crack down on hate speech.

The NSN rallied outside NSW parliament in June, when participants wore black uniforms and displayed a banner with the words 'End Immigration'.

Numerous protests involving NSN members have been staged in capital cities and towns over the past couple of years. In September, members of the group marched at anti-immigration rallies in Sydney and Melbourne.

The fringe group has ramped up efforts to form a political party in an effort to creep into the mainstream, which would require 750 members to join the party to formally register.

Minns questioned if that would happen, given it would require those members to publicly associate their name with neo-Nazism.
First Lady Melania Trump stunned in a strapless emerald dress - to match Saudi Arabia's flag - as she joined President Donald Trump in hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for an ornate dinner in the East Room Tuesday night.

The first lady joined Trump at the White House as he announced that Saudi Arabia would be elevated to 'major non-NATO ally' and that a strategic defense compact had been signed. That distinction has only been given to 20 countries, as well as Taiwan.

He also lauded the crown prince for pledging to invest $1 trillion in the U.S.

Weather in Washington had turned cold and rainy, but Mrs. Trump remained poised, holding hands with the president as MBS' black car pulled up.

The 55-year-old's choice of dress - a $3,350 coated emerald jersey strapless gown from Elie Saab - appeared to be a subtle show of support for MBS.

The crown prince's return to the White House has been controversial due to the 2018 killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi and Saudi Arabia's role in the September 11 terror attacks.

It also comes as Trump is under political fire over pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, with the Saudis visit coinciding with votes to release the Epstein files in both the House and the Senate.

Trump has said he will sign the bill, but the dinner appeared to impact the timing.

MBS attended the dinner solo, but was joined by a Saudi delegation and a number of U.S. business leaders including Elon Musk - marking his return to the White House after his dramatic falling out with Trump in June.

Soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo was also invited, attending alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Others packed into the East Room included Donald Trump Jr. and girlfriend Bettina Anderson, Tiffany Trump and husband Michael Boulos, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, House Speaker Mike Johnson and Fox News' Bret Baier and Maria Bartiromo.

President Donald Trump (left) and First Lady Melania Trump (right) wait for the arrival of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for a dinner in the East Room Tuesday night at the White House

The Trumps held hands while they waited for MBS to arrive back to the White House after several hours of meetings Tuesday afternoon, with the weather turning cold and rainy

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (left) enters the Cross Hall alongside President Donald Trump (center) and First Lady Melania Trump (right) ahead of the Saudi dinner in the East Room Tuesday night

First Lady Melania Trump, seated at one of the three long tables in the East Room, wore a emerald gown that matched Saudi Arabia's flag and the table treatments

The East Room was set up with three long tables to host a dinner in honor of Saudi Arabia's de facto leader, MBS

Elon Musk returned to the White House Tuesday night, after his dramatic falling out with President Donald Trump in June

Business leaders on hand included Apple's Tim Cook, Charles Schwab, General Motors' Mary Barra, Pfizer's Albert Bourla, CBS News' David Ellison, Palantir's Alex Karp, Blackstone Group's Stephen Schwarzman, CitiGroup's Jane Fraser, as well as Ross Perot Jr., the son the late independent presidential candidate Ross Perot, among others.

'I only wish we had about 2,000 more seats,' Trump commented when giving the toast, pledging to host the Saudis for a second dinner once his gilded ballroom was finished in about two years, the president estimated.

The Saudi visit already took a tense turn, as there were fireworks between the president and the press in the Oval Office earlier Tuesday afternoon.

ABC News' Mary Bruce asked the president about the Trump Organization's real estate projects in the gulf nation - and whether they represented a conflict of interest - and then turned her attention to the crown prince.

She asked him about the 2018 death of Khashoggi.

Bruce cited U.S. intelligence agencies when saying to MBS 'you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist' and also noted that '9/11 families are furious that you're here in the Oval Office.'

'Why should Americans trust you?' she asked, with Trump asking, 'Who are you with?' throughout her inquiry.

First Lady Melania Trump (center) smiled as President Donald Trump (left) greeted MBS (right) on the South Lawn Tuesday night

First Lady Melania Trump (right) wore a dramatic emerald strapless dress, which matched the flag of Saudi Arabia

President Donald Trump (left) again put his hand on the back of MBS (center) as he and First Lady Melania Trump (right) escorted the Saudi leader into the White House

Donald Trump Jr. attended Tuesday night's dinner in the East Room in honor of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

President Donald Trump (left) delivers a toast in honor of MBS as First Lady Melania Trump (right) looks on

The president answered for MBS.

'You're mentioning someone that was extremely controversial,' he said of Khashoggi, whose writings were extremely critical of the Saudi royal family, including MBS.

'A lot of people didn't like that gentleman that you're talking about. Whether you like him or didn't like him, things happen. But he knew nothing about it,' Trump said of the crown prince.

'You don't have to embarrass our guest,' the president added.

Trump blew up at the journalist a second time, even threatening to pull ABC's license, when she asked a follow-up on the Epstein files.

'It's not the question that I mind, it's your attitude,' Trump snapped. 'I think you're a terrible reporter,' he added, calling her an 'insubordinate.'

MBS answered the Khashoggi inquiry by saying that it was 'really painful to hear anyone losing his life for no real purpose or not in a legal way.'

'And it's been painful for us in Saudi Arabia. We did all the right steps of investigation, etc., in Saudi Arabia. And we've improved our system to be sure that nothing happened like that,' the crown prince added.

President Donald Trump (right) defended Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (left) after a reporter asked the Saudi leader about the 2018 killing of Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi

Trump's warm welcome - which included a military flyover and a parade of horses - received criticism, especially due to it being a splitscreen moment with the Epstein-related vote.

'With the coincidence this afternoon of the vote in the House of Representatives and the visit of MBS to the White House, it feels like a clarifying moment: On one side, Trump, Epstein and MBS. On the other, those who respect decency and honor humanity,' wrote the Bulwark's Bill Kristol, a Republican critic of Trump.

Representative Ro Khanna, a California Democrat behind the Epstein bill alongside Kentucky Republican Representative Thomas Massie, called attention to Trump's meeting with MBS on the House floor.

'Right now, Trump is meeting the Saudi prince MBS,' Khanna said. 'That's not America First To me, America First means meeting with Epstein survivors to make sure American girls will not be raped.'
A pilot has been airlifted to hospital after his plane crashed north of Brisbane.

Emergency responders raced to the scene in bushland near North Pine Dam at Samsonvale shortly before 9am Wednesday following reports an old war plane had crashed.

Emergency crews had to navigate through private property to access the crash site.

They included three fire crews and the Rescue 500 helicopter.

The male pilot aged in his 70s suffered minor injuries and was airlifted Royal Brisbane Hospital in a stable condition.

'No other injuries were reported,' a Queensland Ambulance spokesperson told Daily Mail.

Emergency responders remained at the scene for much of the morning.

The Australian Transport Safety Bureau (ATSB) said the plane experienced a 'forced landing'.

A war plane has crashed in bushland near North Pine Dam at Samsonvale

'The ATSB has been notified of a forced landing involving a Yak-52 light aircraft near Lake Samsonvale,' a spokesperson said.

'(We) are currently gathering further information prior to making an investigation decision.'
Children born in Britain to refugee parents will face being deported under plans by the Home Secretary to overhaul the asylum process.

Under Shabana Mahmood's plan to restrict the rights of those allowed to stay here, refugee status will become temporary and face a review every 30 months.

Those wishing to settle permanently will have to wait for 20 years, and anyone fleeing unrest will be ordered to return home when their country becomes safe again.

Refugees will lose the automatic right to bring their spouses and children to join them in the UK, while those still having their claims processed will no longer receive financial support unless they need it.

Judges meanwhile will be told not to let illegal migrants and foreign criminals dodge deportation by using Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights (ECHR), which guarantees the right to a family life.

The restrictions are also said to extend to children born to refugees in the UK, unless they have obtained British citizenship.

This means children born in the UK to refugees and those who have no right to stay would face deportation - because Britain does not recognise birthright citizenship.

Only children born to at least one parent who is a British citizen or has settled status can become a citizen at birth, according to the British Nationality Act.

Children born in Britain to refugee parents will face being deported under plans by Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood to overhaul the asylum process

Under new plans to restrict the rights of those allowed to stay here, refugee status will become temporary and face a review every 30 months. Pictured: Migrants attempting to cross the English Channel earlier this year

However a child born in the UK who lives in Britain continuously for 10 years can acquire citizenship.

The Home Office said it would set out the plans relating to the settled status of children 'in due course', The Times reported.

A document entitled 'restoring order and control', which sets out the Government's stance on asylum seekers, details in relation to children: 'We are carefully considering the appropriate pathways for unaccompanied asylum-seeking children, asylum-seeking families with children, and other vulnerable asylum seekers.

'We will take account of their specific needs and vulnerabilities.'

Defending the proposals, Steve Reed, the housing and communities secretary, said the overhaul would rebalance the system and stop unjust 'incentives'.

He told Times Radio: 'We know that we need more safe and legal routes so that families who have the right to come here and seek asylum can get into the country, but we can't continue to allow incentives to exist that result in children drowning in the Channel.'

But the proposals, many of which are based on Danish policies, have drawn criticism from across the political spectrum.

Lord Alf Dubs, who arrived in Britain as a child refugee on the Kindertransport to escape Nazi persecution in 1939, castigated Mahmood for using 'children as a weapon' to dissuade refugees from arriving in Britain.

Lord Alf Dubs, who arrived in Britain as a child refugee on the Kindertransport to escape Nazi persecution in 1939, castigated Mahmood for using 'children as a weapon' to dissuade refugees from arriving in Britain

The Labour politician, who is against the proposals, told the BBC's Today programme: 'What we need is a bit of compassion in our politics and I think that some of the measures were going in the wrong direction, they won't help.'

Other critics have pointed out that Ms Mahmood's proposals could face immediate challenges in the courts unless the UK quits the ECHR and scraps the Human Rights Act (HRA).

Refugees told to return home when their homelands become safe will claim that their right to a family life in the UK is being breached, and anyone whose claim is rejected by domestic courts will be able to take it to judges in Strasbourg.

Migrant charities and pressure groups could ask the European Court of Human Rights to declare the entire scheme unlawful and order the Government to rewrite it.

Labour MPs and peers could also pressure ministers to dilute their plans. Attorney-General Lord Hermer has vowed the UK will not quit the ECHR.

In addition, there are doubts that the prospect of a less generous asylum system will deter illegal migrants, record numbers of whom have crossed the Channel in dinghies this year. Another 217 arrived in three boats on Friday, taking the total for the year to 39,292.

Shadow Home Secretary Chris Philp said last week: 'The Government are pretending to be tough, but while inside the ECHR they will get stopped in their tracks by Left-wing lawyers and judges  probably including their own Attorney-General.

'The only way to control our borders is to leave the ECHR and deport every single illegal immigrant upon arrival, with no court hearings.

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'But Labour is too weak to do that  and their plans are doomed to failure as a result of their ECHR obsession. Labour has lost control of our border and their plans won't make any real difference.'

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said: 'The Home Secretary sounds like a Reform supporter. Sadly, with the Human Rights Act and ECHR the changes won't survive the courts  or probably even her own backbenchers.'

Tory peer Baroness Maclean added: 'If she was serious she would bring back the Rwanda plan, leave the ECHR and HRA, scrap the Modern Slavery Act, and deport foreign criminals. But she won't because Keir Starmer believes that 'all immigration law is racist' and most of her party believe in open borders and 'welcoming refugees'.'

There has also been a backlash to restrictions on refugee status from human rights charities, which called the plans costly, impractical and inhumane.

Steve Valdez-Symonds, of Amnesty International, said: 'Bad asylum policies can expect to be challenged in the courts when they do harm to people.'

The Refugee Council estimated it would cost 872million a decade to review refugees' status every 30 months.

Sir Keir Starmer said the plan will stop 'endless appeals, stop last-minute claims and scale up removals of those with no right to be here'.

Ms Mahmood said: 'The public rightly expect that we can determine who enters this country, and who must leave. To maintain the generosity that allows us to provide sanctuary, we must restore order and control.'

In another attempt to boost deportations, the UK has threatened US-style visa sanctions on Angola, Namibia and the Democratic Republic of Congo, blocking people from coming to Britain unless their governments improve co-operation on removals.
READ MORE: Inside the cocktail of chaos for stars of Beauty and the Geek

A former reality TV star who allegedly murdered her partner and cut off his head before setting his body alight, has been revealed to be pregnant while in custody.

Tamika Chesser, 34, a former Beauty and the Greek contestant, is accused of killing her boyfriend Julian Story, 39, at their Port Lincoln unit, in South Australia, in June.

Police allege she decapitated and dismembered Mr Story before attempting to burn his body. His skull was discovered in bushland some six weeks later.

Chesser is being held at James Nash House, a forensic mental health facility in Adelaide, and is expected to give birth early next year.

She faces charges of murder, interfering with human remains, and assaulting a police officer, with her first court appearance scheduled for December.

It is unclear who the father of the child is, and authorities said Chesser will have access to typical health arrangements from pregnant women in custody.

The update comes as authorities continue to investigate Mr Story's death, who police allege was killed on June 17, the day after his 39th birthday.

Chesser is accused of decapitating him and setting his body alight inside the bathroom of their Port Lincoln unit. His head was not found until six weeks later.

Former reality TV star Tamika Chesser (pictured) is accused of murdering and beheading her boyfriend Julian Story in June. Authorities have revealed the 34-year-old is now pregnant

Julian Story was allegedly killed the day after his 39th birthday. He was farewelled at a private service in August and remembered as a talented musician and beloved son

Chesser, dressed in black, is pictured on CCTV walking her dog after she allegedly murdered Mr Story

CCTV footage captured a woman, dressed in black, walking three dogs a short time after the alleged murder.

Police allege Chesser is the woman in the footage and that she may allegedly have used the bag to transport Mr Story's head from the unit.

Premier Peter Malinauskas called the alleged crimes 'very unique' and 'egregious,' noting the unusual situation of a woman being pregnant in custody.

'Women who find themselves pregnant while in custody have access to very specific services that are tailored to prison health,' Malinauskas said.

'Just as importantly, if not more importantly, the wellbeing of a life that exists in utero is being looked after as well.'

Health Minister Chris Picton confirmed Chesser did not become pregnant while in custody and said strict protocols exist between corrections and health services.

'There are protocols in place between corrections and mental health, and our health services if someone is pregnant in one of our facilities,' Picton said.

Mr Story was laid to rest by friends and family in August at a private service at St Mary of the Angels Catholic Church.

Tamika Chesser placed second in the 2010 series of Beauty and the Geek. The former cocktail waitress also modelled for a number of brands before being accused of murder

Chesser is being held at James Nash House, a forensic mental health care facility. Health Minister Chris Picton confirmed Chesser did not become pregnant while in custody

Ms Story's death rocked the Port Lincoln community, with searches for his remains spanning weeks and involving assistance from police and SES volunteers

He was remembered as a 'very talented musician', a beloved son and 'a bit of a trickster'.

The 34-year-old's family has previously released a statement thanking the authorities and community for their sympathies.

'We are navigating an unimaginable loss, and your care has brought comfort amid the chaos,' the family said.

'Your prayers, presence, and quiet strength mean more than words can say.'

Chesser featured in the second series of the Beauty and the Greek in 2010. She placed second in the show, aired by the Seven Network.

The former cocktail waitress has also modelled for a number of brands including Target and David Jones and appeared in a number of men's magazines.

Chesser is next due to appear in court in December.
A Florida man has been accused of sexually abusing, torturing and murdering a suicidal woman who arrived from Britain seeking a violent death.

Sonia Exelby, 32, was reported missing by loved ones in Portsmouth, UK, after she failed to board her return flight out of Gainesville Regional Airport on October 13.

UK authorities contacted the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, alleging that Exelby was suicidal and had plans to meet someone who would violently kill her, according to WCJB.

Her body was found in a shallow grave in woodland in Marion Oaks days later.

Investigators linked Exelby to a Florida man, Dwain Hall, using transactions made on her credit cards.

Hall was arrested on charges of first-degree murder, kidnapping, credit card fraud and unlawful use of a communication device on November 17.

Police allege the 53-year-old had picked her up from the airport and taken her to an Airbnb in Marion County.

Surveillance photos showed that Hall bought a gun cleaner, rope, and shovel shortly before Exelby's death, according to Fox 35.

Briton Sonia Exelby was reported missing in October after traveling to Florida

Dwain Hall was found by police in conjunction with Hall's death. Surveillance photos and credit card record showed he had picked her up from the airport

Hall ultimately told investigators he met Exelby on a fetish website two years prior. He said Exelby told him she was suicidal and wanted to be killed.

He claimed he wanted to help the woman but also admitted to having violent tendencies.

At the Airbnb, Hall claimed that they slept together multiple times.

Authorities recovered a deleted video on his device which reportedly showed Exelby bruised and disheveled. Hall asked the woman why she was there.

Investigators claimed Exelby responded, 'Because I'm an awful person. I've crushed everyone who ever loves me.'

Police said Hall continued to try to get her consent to harm her. They described her as 'hesitant' although she nodded her head.

Police later found that Exelby messaged a friend on Discord, second-guessing her decision.

'He made it clear there was no way out unless I shoot him,' she allegedly wrote. 'I was questioning it last night... I thought hed do it quick and not give my mind time to stew.'

Her boyfriend Stevie Hunt took to social media and made a desperate plea for his lost love.

Exelby's body was discovered in woodland in Marion Oaks, Florida, on October 17

Exelby's boyfriend Stevie Hunt posted a desperate cry for help online after she disappeared

'It pains me to write this, I never thought I'd be writing this. The love of my life Sonia Exelby is missing,' he wrote.

'She's struggling deeply right now with her mental health and we are terrified for her safety.'

An autopsy of Exelby's body confirmed that she died as a result of four stab wounds.

Next to the abandoned corpse was a label for a shovel that matched the one Hall had purchased earlier.

Hall mailed a knife to a friend in Ohio shortly after Exelby's death.

After searching the friend's home, police confirmed that the weapon tested positive for blood and may contain Exelby's DNA, per WCJB.

Hall is being held in Marion County with no bond.

FDLE Commissioner Mark Glass said of the arrest: 'Our agents worked with extraordinary speed and unwavering determination to ensure justice was served and closure was brought to the victims family.

'This type of violent crime and disregard for human life will not be tolerated in our state  those who commit such heinous crimes will be held fully accountable.'

The Daily Mail reached out to the Florida Department of Law Enforcement for comment.
Elon Musk made his return to the White House Tuesday night as a guest at President Donald Trump's candlelit dinner in honor of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Musk, who was put in charge of the Department of Government Efficiency, was a constant figure at Trump's side during the early months of the president's second term.

But in June, Musk and Trump had an explosive break-up, with the billionaire Tesla, SpaceX and X head charging that the President's name was in the Epstein files.

Coincidentally, a bill that would force the release of the remaining Epstein files was moving its way through Congress, as Trump was hosting Musk and MBS.

Musk and Trump's falling out occurred over the 'big, beautiful bill,' which Musk charged undid much of the cost-cutting work he had accomplished at DOGE, where he tried to fire droves of federal workers.

The world's richest man became a prominent fixture in the MAGA movement after endorsing Trump in the hours following the July 13, 2024, assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Amid their infighting, Musk claimed that Trump only won last year's election thanks to the effort being bankrolled by him.

'Without me, Trump would have lost the election, Dems would control the House and the Republicans would be 51-49 in the Senate,' Musk said. 'Such ingratitude.'

Elon Musk made a triumphant return to the White House Tuesday night after a dramatic falling out with President Donald Trump in June over the 'big, beautiful bill'

Musk's claim infuriated Trump with the President threatening to pull SpaceX and Tesla's government contracts.

The fight became even wilder when Musk brought up Jeffrey Epstein, the serial pedophile who died in prison in 2019.

'Time to drop a really big bomb,' he posted to X. '@RealDonaldTrump is in the Epstein files. That is the real reason they have not been made public.'

'Have a nice day, DJT!'

Trump has denied that there is anything incriminating about him in the files, pointing to Democratic figures such as former President Bill Clinton, who were known to have hung out with the pedophile.

But he also has not signed off on their full release.

That prompted Republican Representative Thomas Massie and Democratic Representative Ro Khanna to sponsor a bill that would force the files to be made public.

The bill passed both the House and the Senate on Tuesday and is awaiting Trump's signature.

The East Room was set up with three long tables for a dinner honoring Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman

Massie was already in the President's crosshairs when he backed the Epstein bill, as he refused to back Trump's 'big beautiful bill.'

Musk, however, vowed to step in if Trump decided to back a Republican primary challenger against Massie, who leans libertarian.

In recent weeks, Trump had signaled that his relationship with Musk was improving after their June spat.

The Saudi dinner presented an opening as Trump had previously invited Musk to attend meetings with him in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia's capital, in May.
An American firm is seeking 1.35billion from Mike Lynch's estate more than a year after the tech tycoon died alongside six others in the Bayesian yacht sinking.

Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HP) wants the 10-figure sum ($1.8billion USD) from Lynch's estate over their acquisition of his tech firm, Autonomy, lawyers told a High Court on Tuesday.

The tech giant seeks to recoup its losses from the 59-year-old billionaire - who died with his 18-year-old daughter Hannah, the yacht's chef, and four other guests, when the vessel sank in a storm off the coast of Sicily last year.

HP have accused the company's chief financial officer, Sushovan Hussain, of inflating the firm's value before the takeover.

The American company purchased the British tech firm for 8.37billion ($11.1billion)in 2011, but within a year of purchase, Autonomy's value fell to 6.7billion ($8.8billion).

Court filings show HP is claiming 1.36billion ($1.79billion), including interest and after prior settlements.

Lawyers, representing Lynch's estate, are seeking to appeal a 2022 ruling that found the late tech tycoon, who was once hailed as Britain's answer to Bill Gates, liable.

They argued the 579million ($761million) the American tech giant is after in interest is 'an excessive sum', and that HP has filed a separate lawsuit asserting the 'estate may be insolvent'.

A spokesperson for Lynch's family said: 'The core facts remain that HP's claim was fundamentally flawed and a wild overstatement.'

Mike Lynch, 59, and Hannah, 18, were among seven people who died when the Bayesian sunk

The superyacht sank off the coast of Sicily on August 19, 2024

HP viewed Autonomy, built on Lynch's ground-breaking research at Cambridge University, as a transformational acquisition to move it from hardware to software.

But, after the deal soured, HP brought a 3.8billion ($5billion) lawsuit against Lynch and Hussain in 2015.

The High Court ruled in HP's favour, although a judge said the company would receive 'considerably less' than the 10-figure sum they wanted.

In June, it was ruled HP suffered losses of nearly 698million ($1million), as it would have paid a lower price for Autonomy had it known its 'true financial position'.

Lynch maintained his innocence and blamed HP for failing to integrate Autonomy, and was later cleared of related criminal charges in the United States on June 6, 2024.

It comes after the tech tycoon's final words were revealed in an interview given by his wife just days after the disaster.

His wife, Angela Bacares, 58, said she only survived the ordeal because she got out of bed just a few moments earlier  after the boat had tilted sharply  and had made her way to the deck to speak to the crew.

In an interview given to Termini Imerese prosecutor Raffaele Cammarano three days after the sinking, a devastated Angela recalled Lynch asking her 'What's the time?' after they had both awoken in the middle of the night due to the ship's movement.

'I told him it was 4:03am or 4:04am and I went up to ask the captain what was happening,' she told investigators at the time.

Pictured: The super yacht Bayesian is raised to the surface off the coast of Porticello, Sicily in June. Mr Cutfield is under investigation for manslaughter along with engineer Tim Parker Eaton and nightwatchman Matthew Griffiths. All three deny the allegations

But little did she know that that would be the last time she saw or spoke to her husband, who had been celebrating his recent acquittal on fraud charges with his family and the people who had defended him at trial before the tragedy.

Just six minutes later, at 4:10am, the vessel was struck by a violent downburst, and 16 minutes after that, the Bayesian yacht was underwater.

Angela was already on deck when the yacht had begun to tilt to one side, as she recalled clinging to the captain while the boat began to fill with water.

'I wanted to go back down to warn the others, but Sasha (the Irish stewardess) told me not to come down... In an instant, something happened, I no longer recognised what was in front of me,' she said.

The panicked wife and mother claimed she was reassured by the captain that the 183ft yacht would not capsize.

'I thought my husband and daughter could swim and get over,' she said, but tragically, both would lose their lives.

Despite Italian coastguards issuing their interim report last month, which blamed the 52-year-old captain, James Cutfield, and the crew for the disaster, Angela said she had always felt 'reassured' by the crew in bad weather.

'We've had the Bayesian scanner for 10 years, and generally the only fears were about hitting the rocks or getting tangled in another anchor.

'I've never had to wake the others because of bad weather... I didn't think something so catastrophic could happen,' she told Cammarano.

In June part of the Bayesian was resurfaced following a two-month operation.

When it was raised, the superyacht was missing its 236ft mast, which was cut down and left on the seabed for future removal.

The mast had to be detached to allow the hull to be brought to a nearly upright position that would allow the craft to be surfaced, TMC Maritime said at the time.

British investigators said in an interim report issued last month that the yacht was knocked over by 'extreme wind' and couldn't recover.

The report stated that the Bayesian had chosen the site where it sank as shelter from forecast thunderstorms.

Wind speeds exceeded 70 knots (81 mph) at the time of the sinking and 'violently' knocked the vessel over to a 90-degree angle in under 15 seconds.

Three crew members, including the New Zealand-born skipper James Cutfield, first engineer Tim Parker Eaton and night watchman Matthew Griffith, both from Britain, were placed under formal investigation for manslaughter and causing a disaster.

Lynch and Hannah, lost their lives in the tragedy, as did a lawyer, Chris Morvillo, and his wife, Neda; Jonathan Bloomer, a banker, and his wife, Judy; and the yachts chef, Recaldo Thomas.

Nine other crew members and six guests were rescued.
Australian fitness brands Fitness First Australia and Jetts Fitness are set to be put on the market, with owner Quadrant Private Equity preparing to launch a formal auction for its broader Fitness & Lifestyle Group early next year.

According to the Australian Financial Review, JPMorgan is advising Quadrant on a two-stage sale process that will cover the groups entire portfolio of six brands.

Fitness & Lifestyle Group describes itself as the biggest corporate-owned gym operator in the Asia-Pacific region, with six brands across 330 locations in Australia, New Zealand, Thailand and Singapore.

Quadrant has owned the group since 2016.

In addition to Fitness First Australia and Jetts Fitness New Zealand and Thailand, the group includes the Australian arm of high-intensity training chain Barrys Bootcamp.

Its Australian footprint includes dozens of Fitness First clubs nationwide and four Barrys Bootcamp studios across Sydney and Melbourne, alongside the Jetts and Zap Fitness networks.

Barry's Bootcamp entered the Australian market in 2018, far from its roots in West Hollywood, and remains one of the group's premium offerings.

The group was reportedly hammered by the industry-wide impact of Covid-19, but managed to bounce back to earnings above pre-Covid levels, the AFR reported.

The two-stage auction process is reportedly slated to get underway next year.

Australian fitness brand Fitness First Australia is set to be put on the market
In the contemporary discourse on law and globalization, Africa's rich tapestry of customary laws is often overlooked. Yet these deeply rooted legal traditions usually embody the principles that govern modern legal systems worldwide. Eritrea, an African nation with iconic customary laws, offers a compelling case study. Customary law, by definition, comprises the obligatory rules inherent to the indigenous people of a community, highly valued and adhered to by the public it represents.

This article argues that long before the arrival of colonizers, Eritrean customary systems were already sophisticated instruments for maintaining peace, security, and order. We focus on four key principles enshrined in various Eritrean customary laws that reflect the fundamental tenets of modern criminal law and demonstrate a profound respect for human dignity and due process.

Presumption of Innocence

The presumption of innocence is the cornerstone of any modern criminal justice institution, dictating that an accused person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This is a universally accepted legal and international right (e.g., Article 11 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

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Eritrean customary laws clearly anticipate this principle. For example, the Adkeme Mlgae Customary Law places the burden of proof squarely on the accuser, not the accused. Judges refuse to pronounce judgment until the accuser provides evidence and testimony that proves the crime was committed beyond a reasonable doubt, effectively upholding the pillar that the accused is innocent until proven guilty.

Similarly, the Adgena Tegelba Customary Law presumes the accused to be innocent until guilt is established by a due investigation from the judge and credible human testimonies, reflecting a conscious societal demand for a high standard of proof before conviction.

Public Participation

Public participation ensures that justice is not only done but is seen to be done, fostering awareness and public confidence in the legal system--a modern goal often achieved through juries or public hearings.

In traditional Eritrean society, this principle was integral to the judicial process:

The Bayto System: Although no specific rule explicitly mandated "public participation," it was an accepted fact of Eritrean legal life. Societies settled their matters in front of the Bayto under a sycamore tree. This was the central gathering place where villagers discussed law, order, and justice, confirming that any issue was settled in the open presence of the public.

Customary Law Commands: The customary laws of Adgena Tegelba, Adkeme Mlgae, and Logo Chwa all command that any litigation--whether for arbitration or judgment--must be given in the presence of the Bayto or Chiqa Adi (local leader). This indirectly but effectively institutionalized public participation, ensuring that individual rights were protected and justice was administered openly and accountably.

The Right to Have a Counsel

The right to counsel is a crucial protection for the accused, who are often laymen incapable of understanding complex charges or procedures. Modern legal systems provide attorneys to ensure an effective defense.

This right is explicitly recognized across several Eritrean customary codes: The Adkeme Mlgae customary law clearly states that any accused has the right to be represented by an attorney of his choice, emphasizing the importance of rightful defense. Moreover, the Adkeme Mlgae laws provide that any accused person has a maximum of 10 days to appoint an attorney of his choice. The Adgena Tegelba customary law declares that any accused person has the right to a defense through an attorney. Not far from the Adgena Tegelba and Adkeme Mlgae, the Logo Chwa customary law also reflects the importance of legal representation for accused individuals, defining the ethical obligation of attorneys during trial proceedings. The right to counsel is also enshrined in Sahel customary law, which states that individuals who are incapable of representing themselves have the right to appoint an attorney. These laws were instruments that contemplated moral duty and upheld one's right to defend in a just customary system.

The Principle of Speedy Trial

The principle of speedy trial guarantees protection against unreasonable delays in criminal proceedings, thereby safeguarding the accused against the arbitrary deprivation of liberty and fostering public confidence in the justice system.

Eritrean customary systems enforced strict deadlines to ensure efficiency:

Shewate Anseba Customary Law: This law emphasizes that any issue shall be settled within a time span of one month, dictating that parties should bring their case to the judge within thirty days maximum. Failure by one party to litigate within the month allows the proceedings to continue in their absence, highlighting the importance of timely justice.

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Dembezan Customary Laws: This code reinforces the principle in the execution of judgments, dictating that blood money (compensation) should be paid as quickly as possible to prevent severe retaliatory consequences from the deceased's family members.

The existence of principles such as the presumption of innocence, public participation, the right to counsel, and the speedy-trial guarantee in Eritrean customary law--some of which predate the 15th Century--is truly surprising. These laws are a testament to a society that upheld human dignity and believed that justice is attained through the due process of law, a principle that the world today champions.

Though some of these customary rules may require extensive research and explanation, their significance as a source of rich, wide-ranging law cannot be overstated. With extensive research and discussion, Eritrean customary laws could serve as the indispensable foundation of Eritrean jurisprudence and a distinct Eritrean school of legal thought that perfectly fits the nation's unique societal structure.
A 'disruptive' passenger has been restrained and removed from a Qantas flight bound for Sydney.

Cabin crew on board flight QF654 from Perth requested assistance from Australian Federal Police ahead of touching down at Sydney Domestic Airport on Wednesday morning.

It's understood fellow passengers helped crews to restrain a man who was acting erratically during the five-hour flight.

An AFP spokesperson confirmed officers removed a passenger from the plane.

No arrest or charges have yet been confirmed.

'More information will be provided at an appropriate time,' an AFP spokesman told Daily Mail.

Qantas confirmed that police assistance was required.

Cabin crew on board Qantas flight QF654 from Perth requested assistance from AFP ahead of touching down at Sydney Domestic Airport on Wednesday morning

'The safety of our customers and crew is our number one priority and we have zero tolerance for any disruptive behaviour on board our flights,' a spokeswoman said.

'We're grateful to our crew and other passengers who assisted during the incident.'

Anyone with further information is urged contact the AFP on 131 247.
A school and kindergarten in one of Melbourne's most affluent suburbs have been put into lockdown after a knife scare on their doorstep.

Police were called to reports of two males possibly armed with machetes in Brighton, 11km south-east of Melbourne's CBD on Wednesday afternoon.

Elsternwick Primary was reportedly put into lockdown over the fears.

Police attended and found two youths on the corner of Martin and Cochrane Streets - just down the road from the school - about 2pm.

A police spokesperson told Daily Mail that while one of the boys was arrested for possessing a baton and a drug of dependence, no machetes were found.

The youth is being interviewed by police.

'A primary school on Murphy Street Brighton was placed into lockdown temporarily as a precaution,' the spokesperson said.

'It is not believed the youths entered the school grounds. We understand the school has re-opened.'

Machete-wielding thugs caused schools to go into lockdown in Melbourne's leafy east

Melbourne radio station 3AW reported North Brighton Children's Centre was also placed into lockdown due to the reports of the armed youths.

The incident comes a week after Daily Mail reported a school for children with special needs was put into lockdown after machete-wielding teens terrorised leafy Hampton.

Hampton East School - a junior to year 12 institution for students with mild to moderate intellectual disabilities - was put into lockdown on November 11 after reports of machete-wielding thugs outside.

It is understood two men armed with machetes got out of a vehicle on Dane Road, just south-east of Melbourne's CBD, and were seen chasing two people down the street.

One witness told Daily Mail the victims appeared to be walking past the school when they were attacked by the armed men.

The victims were seen fleeing into a nearby park pursued by the machete-wielding thugs.

Anyone with information on the various incidents is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
A Gustav Klimt masterpiece has become the most expensive piece of modern art to be sold at an auction after a whopping $236.4 million bid.

The piece was owned by Leonard Lauder who died in June and was son and heir to Estee Lauder.

The Lauder family were major patrons of the arts known for their impressive collection.

Sotheby's auction house offered up 24 pieces from the Leonard Lauder's personal collection during the November 18 art auction.

The Portrait of Elizabeth Lederer, which was completed in 1916, was purchased by Lauder in the 1980s and remained in his ownership until his death.

At least six bidders were hoping to snag the portrait, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Several even joined the intense bidding war on the phone, with one telephone bidder the ultimate winner. The tense auction ended in applause.

The highly sought after painting has now surpassed the Austrian artist's last auction record and instantly became one of the most valuable paintings of the 20th century.

Gustav Klimt's breathtaking Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer painting sold for $236.4 million on November 18 at a Sotheby's art auction

Leonard Lauder, the late heir to the beauty empire, owned the remarkable piece of art and rarely let it out of his sight

The bidding at Sotheby's in New York City began at $130 million, according to ARTNews.

The final price tag is the highest price for any single piece of modern art ever sold at an auction.

The record was previously held by Pablo Picasso's Les Femme d'Alger which sold for $179.4 million in 2015. The most expensive piece of art ever sold at auction remains Leonardo da Vincis Salvator Mundi, which sold for $450 million in 2017.

Tuesday's auction was the first held in Sotheby's new home at the Breuer building in New York City.

Sotheby's worldwide Chairman Helena Newman said in a statement that the auction 'made history.'

'To see Gustav Klimts exquisite portrait of Elisabeth Lederer set a new auction record for the artist is thrilling in itself,' she said.

'To see it become the most valuable work ever sold at Sothebys is nothing short of sensational. Klimt is one of those rare artists whose magic is as powerful as it is universal.'

Lauder's prized possession was one of only two remaining privately owned full-length Klimt portraits.

Lauder was a fan of Klimt (pictured) and had multiple paintings in his collection

Klimt's 1908 Blumenwiese, or Blooming Meadow and his 1916 Waldabhang bei Unterach in Attersee, or Forest Slope in Unterach on the Attersee, were sold at the auction. Lauder owned them as well

The six-foot tall painting was one of Klimt's most intricate pieced and portrays the daughter of one of Klimt's wealthy Viennese customers.

The elegant subject wore an ornamental rove and is surrounded by Chinese art.

According to the Guardian, the highly sought after work of art was looted by the Nazis and nearly destroyed by a fire during World War II.

It was recovered by Klimt's friend and purchased by the Lauder family in 1985.

Lauder owned a total of three Klimt paintings including his 1908 Blooming Meadow and his 1916 Forest Slope in Unterach on the Attersee.

The paintings sold for $86 million and $70.8 million respectively.

Every one of Lauder's esteemed pieces found a buyer. The total for his collection was about $528 million combined.

His Henri Matisse sculptures, Edvard Munch's Midsummer Night, and Robert Rauschenberg's Untitled raked in millions.

Lauder was the eldest son of Estee Lauder (pictured together), after whom the cosmetics brand she founded is named, and her husband Joseph

This auction was the first at Sotheby's new auction house at New York's historic Breuer building

Sotheby's called the impressive collection 'once in a generation' on their website.

Lauder rarely allowed the prized paintings and sculptures out of his home.

They were occasionally shown at the Museum of Modern Art and at his brother Ronald Lauder's Neue Galerie New York.

It lived at the National Gallery of Canada from 2017 until earlier this year.

Lauder was the oldest son of Estee Lauder. He and his younger brother inherited their mother's beauty company.

Lauder's most recent estimated net worth was $32.3 billion in 2021 making him the 44th richest person in the world.
Chinese diplomats tried to stop Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who was locked up by the Chinese Communist Party for more than three years, from speaking at a think tank.

The Chinese-born Australian journalist was previously detained in China in August 2020 and held for three years and two months for 'carrying out criminal activities endangering China's national security'.

It followed the then-Coalition government's call for an inquiry into the origins of Covid, which sparked Ms Cheng's sham trial and conviction over forwarding an economic report to a fellow journalist.

Now, two years after her release and her return to Australia, diplomats attempted to leverage the China-Australia trade relationship to shut down an appearance by Ms Cheng at the Australian Institute of International Affairs in August.

Speaking on the podcast Latika Takes while in London where she was appearing at PEN International's Day of the Imprisoned Writer, Ms Cheng said the CCP was still trying to silence her after her release from detention in China.

'They keep tabs on me,' Ms Cheng said. 'For example, I know they tried to stop a talk that I was giving at the Australian Institute of International Affairs.

'This is the [Chinese] Melbourne Consulate.'

Chinese-born Australian journalist Cheng Lei, who was previously detained from August 2020 in China for three years and two months, now says an attempt was made to silence her by Chinese diplomats in Australia

Ms Cheng has written about her time in detention in a recent memoir, Cheng Lei: A Memoir of Freedom, in which she details her anger at China depriving her of her freedom and of time with her two children.

She wants to expose how the Chinese government treats people and their families.

'It's a different standard of humanity, and that is something that's totally missing from a lot of the coverage that we get on China just because a select few go through this and then they're too scared to write about it afterwards,' she said.

'So I'm definitely using that freedom to their dismay, probably.'

Richard Iron, President of the Australian Institute of International Affairs Victorian branch, confirmed the Chinese had asked him to cancel Cheng Lei's talk, the Nightly reported.

He said China's Consul General Fang Xinwen had visited him on the morning of Lei's scheduled talk on August 5.

Mr Iron told The Nightly that he told Fang Xinwen that Australians wanted a good trading relationship with China and also desired friendship.

But he added: 'They don't like being spied on, they don't like being intimidated, and they don't like being bullied.'
Hakeem Jeffries became the latest Democrat dragged into the Jeffrey Epstein files debacle after an email allegedly revealed the billionaire pedophile was invited to dinner for a fundraiser.

The Democratic minority leader was forced to deny ever meeting Epstein on Tuesday as President Trump prepared to sign a bill passed in Congress that would release all the files on the late financier.

'I have no recollection of the email,' Jeffries told CNN.

'I've never had a conversation with him, never met him, know nothing about him other than the extreme things that he's been convicted of doing.'

Trump, meanwhile, insisted about Epstein: 'All of his friends were Democrats.'

The alleged Jeffries email was sent to Epstein by a Democrat aligned consulting firm that worked for him in 2013.

'Dear Jeffrey, we are thrilled to announce that we are working with Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, one of the rising stars in the New York Congressional delegation,' the letter from the consulting firm, Dynamic SRG, reads.

'Give us a call if you would like to get involved with the dinner, or would like to get an opportunity to know Hakeem better. He is an impressive guy who will be a progressive voice in New York politics for years to come.'

Epstein, at the time of the messages, was a known convicted sex offender, having pleaded guilty in 2008 to soliciting prostitution from a minor.

Hakeem Jeffries denied meeting Jeffrey Epstein after it was revealed a Democrat consulting group invited the billionaire pedophile to an event celebrating the Congressman

As Washington awaits Donald Trump's signature on a bill releasing the Epstein files, lawmakers on both sides are bracing

The letter goes on to refer to Jeffries as 'Brooklyn's Barack,' drawing comparisons with then-president Barack Obama, who was also slated to attend the dinner.

The Republican-led House Oversight Committee hammered Jeffries on social media over the connection to Epstein.

'Epstein documents reveal that Hakeem's consulting firm reached out to Jeffrey Epstein to arrange a dinner between them,' the committee posted on social media.

'Is "Brooklyn's Barack" telling us everything he knows?'

The Daily Mail has reached out to Jeffries and Dynamic SRG for further comment.

Jeffries, however, was not the only Democrat to come under fire for connection to Epstein on Tuesday as the House and Senate held near-unanimous votes to release the files.

Virgin Islands Delegate Stacey Plaskett was slammed after being caught texting Epstein as she questioned Trump's fixer, Michael Cohen, during a 2019 hearing.

Plaskett, the US Virgin Island non-voting delegate, corresponded with Epstein in the middle of the hearing into Trump, according to the latest files release.

'I got a text from Jeffrey Epstein, who at the time was my constituent, who was not public knowledge at that time that he was under federal investigation,' she attempted to explain Tuesday. 'And who was sharing information with me.'

Trump, seen with Saudi leader Mohammed bin Salman during his visit to the US yesterday, now can release the entire trove of files himself after repeatedly promising full transparency

On Tuesday afternoon, the committee released an email sent by a Democrat aligned consulting firm that worked for Jeffries, inviting Epstein to a dinner celebrating him in 2013

The Washington Post uncovered that it was Plaskett who was involved in the texts, after her name was originally redacted from the releases. Her office confirmed their report.

Plaskett denied 'taking advice' from Epstein because she doesn't need it 'from any individual.'

The delegate narrowly avoided censure in the House of Representatives Tuesday and nearly lost her spot on the House Intelligence Committee. The House voted 209-214 against formally reprimanding Plaskett for communicating Epstein.

Three House Republicans  Representatives Don Bacon of Nebraska, Lance Gooden of Texas and Dave Joyce of Ohio  sided with Plaskett and voted with all Democrats against the measure.

In the bombshell vote yesterday, both the House and Senate acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its files on Epstein.

It was a remarkable display of approval for an effort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from Trump and Republican leadership.

The Senate passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent with no roll call votes for the bill.

In a stunning turn of events, Trump is expected to sign the Epstein bill in the Oval Office on Wednesday.

Plaskett attempted to explain that she was receiving praise from constituents for having told Republican Jim Jordan to 'shut up' for trying to shut down the hearing which included Epstein

White House insiders have told the Daily Mail that the move by Trump wasn't a U-turn, but a calculated move to expose senior Democrats who had links to Epstein.

Trump told reporters in the Oval Office on Monday: 'We have nothing to do with Epstein. The Democrats do - all of his friends were Democrats.'

'I believe that many of the people that we, some of the people that we mentioned, are being looked at very seriously for their relationship to Jeffrey Epstein, but they were with him all the time. I wasn't. I wasn't at all, and we'll see what happens,' he added.

Trump now has the authority to release the entire trove of files himself after repeatedly promising full transparency despite months of tense clashes with House Republicans over the most explosive details.

Aides had planned to give Trump the option to sign the bill Tuesday night, on or off camera, or to do so Wednesday morning, CNN reported.

But the President had a packed schedule Tuesday evening as he hosted Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman at the White House.

Meanwhile, Trump took to his Truth Social page, asking his fellow Republicans to remember their victories since he took office in January.

'I dont care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, I just dont want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that weve had,' Trump wrote before rattling off his achievements.

The Senate passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act by unanimous consent Tuesday evening with no roll call votes for the bill, just hours after the House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the measure as well

White House insiders have told the Daily Mail that the move by Trump wasn't a U-turn, but a calculated move to expose senior Democrats and his critics who had links to the pedophile financier

Trump said he would support the measure in a stunning reversal on Monday after spending the weekend hitting out at Republican Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie for supporting the passage of the bill.

The President claimed in a Truth Social post that he had 'nothing to hide' while insisting the entire saga was a 'hoax.'

'House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files,' he wrote.

'We have nothing to hide, and its time to move on from this Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics in order to deflect from the Great Success of the Republican Party.'

The President went on to note that his Department of Justice has already turned over tens of thousands of pages on Epstein - and hinted that the files could potentially damage Democrat enemies such as Summers, Bill Clinton and Reid Hoffman.

Trump's association with Epstein has been well-established, with flight logs showing the president flew on his private jet four times in the mid-1990s.

He was even cited in thousands of pages of documents the Republican-led House Oversight Committee released last week, which included a 2019 email that Epstein wrote to a journalist claiming Trump 'knew about the girls.'

The President has insisted that he cut Epstein off decades ago.
Mysterious debris balls discovered along the NSW Central Coast earlier this year originated from Sydney.

The grey-coloured balls, ranging in size from 10g to 40g, were officially reported by council environmental officers at multiple beaches in August.

It was revealed this week that samples collected from the balls matched the chemical signature of Sydney Water's Malabar Wastewater System, making that location the probable source.

Sydney Water is investigating the incident to further pinpoint how the debris leaked to pollute the beaches.

Affected beaches in August included The Entrance Beach, Grant McBride Baths, Blue Bay, Toowoon Bay, North Shelly Beach, Shelly Beach, Forresters Beach and Blue Lagoon.

Council crews immediately launched clean-up operations and removed 40kg of the debris, which was disposed of at a licensed waste facility.

Authorities urged beachgoers not to swim, walk, or exercise at the affected locations and to keep pets well clear, in case they ingested the material.

Beachgoers were also advised not to touch the debris balls and report any new sightings to the council.

Mysterious debris balls (one is pictured) washed up on beaches across the NSW Central Coast in August

The source of the balls (pictured) was found to be Sydney Water's Malabar Wastewater System

A dog owner claimed their pets became ill after they consumed the balls.

'Went to Shelly Beach today as off work with the rain. Did not read the signs properly. Thought it was closed to swimming,' they posted online.

'(The) dogs ate some of the waste balls and are now vomiting. Just back from the vets. All good and monitor for 24 hours at home.'

The EPA said it would provide further updates when they are available.
Visitors to a busy local shopping centre were horrified to see two large reindeer kept in a small gated area.

Christmas festivities at Jesmond Central, in west Newcastle, were called into question on Wednesday with dozens of customers appalled by what they said was the poor treatment of the animals.

One shopper described the pen the animals were kept in as a six-metre-by-eight-metre fenced area in the shopping centre's walkway, with no food or water, and a patch of plastic grass.

'I had to pay an unfortunate visit to Jesmond shopping centre today and I was so heartbroken to see these poor reindeer in an 8x6 pen in the middle of the shopping centre,' she wrote online.

'No food, no water and no supervisor.

'They are literally being used as a photo prop so people can get photos with them in their fu***ing Christmas outfits.

A disheartening photo showed one of the reindeer folded on the ground while another peered over the short fence. Both were dressed in festive saddles and fur-lined muzzles with bells around their feet.

A pair of reindeer (pictured) have been kept at Jesmond Central shopping centre for three hours per day

One disturbed customer vented online after seeing the reindeer in-person

The shopping centre posted an advertisement on Monday which stated the reindeer would be in-store on Tuesday and Wednesday.

'If your kids have ever asked to meet a real-life reindeer, you don't need to book flights to the North Pole,' it wrote.

'Just pop in tomorrow, Santa's gorgeous reindeer are visiting!

'Come and join us for this FREE event and take a photo with the reindeer crew!'

The reindeer were available for photos between 11am to 12.30pm and 3.30pm to 5pm.

They will return for another four sessions in December.

Dozens of commenters under Jesmond Central's post called for the events to be cancelled.

'How is this okay?' one wrote.

'This is awful - I can't believe you are all okay with keeping these animals inside!' another said.

'Doesn't look very cheerful to me,' another wrote.

'Animal cruelty is not okay. It's 2025. We know better, let's do better!' another said.

'Reindeer are wild animals, not Christmas props. Dragging them into a noisy, crowded shopping centre for photos is incredibly stressful and completely unnecessary,' another wrote.

However, other commenters were excited to see the beloved Christmas animals in-person.

'I am super keen to see a real reindeer,' one wrote.

Another said: 'I went down there yesterday. The two reindeer looked very relaxed and calm, they did not look scared or stressed in any way.

'The owner was right there with them, letting kids stand beside them for photos. They weren't allowed to touch their antlers, feet or legs and also had to be very calm in the pen.

'It was a very special experience for my son.'

The Daily Mail has contacted Haben, the owner of Jesmond Central, for comment.
A suspected pro-Kremlin stooge is facing war crimes charges in the UK after filming pigs eating dead Ukrainian soldiers and allegedly mistreating a fellow British soldier.

Former civil servant Graham Phillips, 46, is being investigated by Counter Terrorism Police over alleged breaches of the Geneva Convention.

Phillips was among a group of Russian soldiers who stood by as pigs ate the remains of Ukrainian soldiers in the Donbas, while openly mocking their deaths.

Chilling footage, posted in August 2022, shows Phillips picking up an ID belonging to one of the dead Ukrainian's before asking: 'Is Yuri tasty?'

'It's a buffet. He's also eating! Munching, munching and munching,' he adds. 'They're not even shy. Eat, be healthy.'

In another sadistic joke, Phillips says: 'It turns out he was useful for someone.'

Phillips has admitted filming the video in Donbas, but saw no issue with allowing the soldiers to become 'pig fodder'.

Meanwhile, Phillips is also being investigated over his interrogation with British PoW Aiden Aslin, 31, while he was handcuffed and injured.

Former civil servant Graham Phillips, 46, is facing war crimes charges in the UK after filming pigs eating dead Ukrainian soldiers and mistreating a fellow British soldier

Phillips is also being investigated over his interrogation with British PoW Aiden Aslin (pictured)

Phillips can be seen holding a cam recorder and pointing it at a handcuffed Mr Aslin

Mr Aslin, a Briton who served with Ukrainian forces, endured a 45-minute encounter with Phillips, who taunted him about potentially facing the death penalty under the laws of the 'Donetsk People's Republic'.

Footage of Mr Aslin's questioning posted online was subsequently taken down by Facebook and YouTube.

It was not the first cruel interview with PoWs that Phillips has undertaken for his Russian masters, who convinced him he was an 'independent' journalist.

In his blog A Brit in Ukraine, Phillips, who has roots in Nottingham, reveals his main previous interest was sex.

Among articles written around 2014 are The Beautiful Girls of Ukraine (#1) and Ukrainian Girls are Smokin'.

He also appeared in a 2014 BBC radio documentary in which he gleefully told of his encounter with an 'angel-like' prostitute.

Another British PoW Shaun Pinner, 52, who was tortured by the Russians, has also claimed Phillips breached the Geneva Convention, with his interrogation of Mr Aslin being 'one of the clearest examples'.

Mr Pinner was captured by Russian forces during the siege of Mariupol in April 2022. He was sentenced to death but later released as part of a prisoner swap.

Mr Aslin (pictured), a Briton who served with Ukrainian forces, endured a 45-minute encounter with Phillips

Aslan is seen in handcuffs with a cut to the head and swollen eye after being captured by Russian troops during battle for Mariupol

British citizens Aiden Aslin (L) and Shaun Pinner (R) and Moroccan Saaudun Brahim (C) attend a sentencing hearing at the Supreme Court of the self-proclaimed Donetsk People's Republic

Phillips has claimed ownership of being involved in both videos and denies any wrongdoing in either.

He told the Sun: 'Why should I have intervened in that incident with the pigs? Those Ukrainian soldiers came to Donbas to murder the civilians of Donbas, who want to be with Russia, not part of the Ukrainian Nazi regime. They ended up becoming pig fodder.'

'I understand [Aiden] has some issues with how he was treated in captivity  well, where did he think he was coming, Center Parcs? As for my work, I stand by everything I've done.'

Phillips said if he was charged with any breaches of international law, he would have a 'clear conscience' and co-operate fully with any investigation.

He added he was 'patriotic' and looked forward to returning to the UK in the future.

A Counter Terrorism Policing spokesperson said: 'We can confirm that officers from the Counter Terrorism Policing (CTP) War Crimes Team are conducting an investigation into allegations against a UK national alleged to have committed war crimes in the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict.

'The matter was referred to the War Crimes Team in March 2022 and after it was initially assessed under the jointly established police and Crown Prosecution Service guidelines an investigation was subsequently opened.

'The investigation remains ongoing and officers continue to liaise with colleagues from the CPS as part of this.'

John Harding, Shaun Pinner and Aiden Aslin are seen on a plane after being saved from Russia

Shaun Pinner, who was captured by Russian forces during a military conflict in Ukraine, in a courtroom cage in June 2022

'Given the nature of the allegations, we have been liaising with various international partners.'

The force added that no arrests have been made and no one has been interviewed under caution.

Phillips is already the only British citizen to have ever been sanctioned by his own Government.

If he is charged he will become the first British national to face a war crimes trial since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022.
Do YOU know anyone affected by the blizzard?

A British woman who was among five foreign tourists killed in a blizzard at a nature reserve in southern Chile has been named as Victoria Bond.

The visitors to Torres del Paine nature reserve, Chile's most visited foreign tourist spot, were caught off guard Monday while exploring the Patagonian park famed for its granite peaks, glaciers and wildlife, which is 1,740 miles south of Chile's capital Santiago.

Two Mexicans and two Germans also died in the incident yesterday amid heavy rainfall and winds of up to 120mph.

Before the tragedy, Cornwall-based PR worker Victoria, 40, had posted a video taken by another British member of their group, detailing their progress.

It showed footage of her and the other trekkers crossing raging rivers under drizzle and grey skies.

The Brit who recorded the video, who referenced Victoria in his post with the initials VB, wrote: 'Day 1 of the Patagonia O-Trek: also known as 15km of why the f**k did I fly 8,000 when I could've walked round Bodmin Moor in a light drizzle?

'It p***ed it down from the first step, the trail rebranded itself as an Amazon tributary, and at one point I'm fairly certain I saw a trout overtake me. Five river crossings and only one bloody bridge. Should've brought a canoe and a priest.

'Morale at an all-time low and THEN the skies suddenly cleared, the valley cracked open like a tin of peaches, and we stumbled into camp with trench foot.

Cornwall-based PR worker Victoria, believed to be 30, died alongside foreign tourists in Chile

Victoria shared footage of her and the other trekkers crossing raging rivers under drizzle and grey skies

The five dead were visiting the Patagonian Torres del Paine nature reserve, Chile's most visited foreign tourist spot (File image)

'Dinner was gourmet  rehydrated slop in a pouch  while VB, our very own Patagonia Princess, dined on first-class full board because she paid 900 not to carry a bag.

'We're also raising money for Movember, for men's mental health and suicide prevention.'

More than 20 people were involved in a search for the victims who were understood to have been part of a group of nine people who went missing.

The alarm was raised on Monday night through a 'Please Help' message published in a Facebook group used by foreign visitors to the area where an English-speaking tourist said others who were doing the demanding Circuit O or Patagonia O-Trek had become trapped by bad weather.

Local media reported that much of the country is currently facing heavy snow, wind and rain.

Chilean president Gabriel Boric said in a post on X: 'To the families, friends and loved ones of the five people of Mexican, German and British nationality who regrettably died in the tragedy that occurred in Torres del Paine, I send my most sincere condolences.

'Know that they can rely on the full collaboration of the Chilean authorities and institutions in these difficult moments.'

The two Mexicans who died have been identified as Cristina Calvillo Tovar and Julian Garcia Pimentel and the two Germans as Nadine Lichey and Andreas Von Pein.

Victoria, pictured in a boat in Cornwall, had shared updates about the trek in Patagonia

Initially reporting two dead and seven missing, regional government official Jose Antonio Ruiz updated the toll to five later in the day, made up of one Brit, two Mexicans and two Germans.

Four people were rescued alive, but Ruiz did not specify their nationalities or their health status.

Ruiz added: 'Talks have already begun with the relevant consuls regarding the repatriation of bodies. The Prosecutor's Office has also authorised the movement of bodies, so we are now entering a phase of evacuation, prioritising air transport'.

Soldiers and police joined the search effort in the park designated a biosphere reserve by UNESCO in 1978.

Authorities also closed off the zone during the search. As many as 24 were involved in the search.

In 2024, more than 367,000 tourists visited the reserve and its hiking trails, according to the latest available figures from the Conaf national forestry body.

The weather forecast for Torres del Paine has been for sleet and strong winds, which diminishes visibility for hikers who may stray from the park's dedicated trails as a result, Juan Carlos Andrades of the Senapred emergency response unit told AFP.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric, in a message on X, offered his condolences to the loved ones of the five who died in what he described as a 'tragedy.'

An FCDO spokesperson told the Daily Mail: 'We are in contact with the local authorities following an incident in Chile.'

Victoria described herself on Instagram as a PR for the Isles of Scilly official Instagram, @visittheislesofscilly.

Her social media shows she was well-travelled. In the past year she had travelled to Athens and enjoyed time on a catamaran which she described as a '10/10 life experience'.

She had also posted photos of a trip to places like Barbados and Costa Rica, including one of her in the Spanish speaking Central American country where she was on a horse on a picture-postcard beach.

One man who appeared to know a member of the trekking group Victoria was in, in a poignant message written alongside the footage of the group Victoria reposted on her Instagram, said: 'Good luck you lovely bunch. Bring that tiny one back in one piece please.'

An agonising 'help' message was written by American holidaymaker Arab Ginnett as the full scale of the problems the foreign holidaymakers caught up in the blizzard unfolded.

She wrote in the Facebook group Torres del Paine, Chile, which is well used by foreign visitors and offers information about excursions in the national park: 'We are at Los Perros camp in the Torres del Paine. People were climbing the John Gardner earlier today and the weather has turned very bad.

'We are snowed in and people are still out on the pass. Very strong wind, 120 mph.

'They left at 6.00am this morning. We have sent out 20-25 people to rescue people who are still missing.

'We believe there are at least five people who have not been found, one is being rescued now but she is very unresponsive.

'They are on the side between Los Perros and the top of the pass. We need urgent help, climbers and rescuers are at the risk of dying based on our current situation.

'We have sent everybody we can up the mountain but still need more helpers. It is very difficult to get information about rescue services here. Please contact me if you can help.'

Carlos Cornejo, not knowing at that stage how the drama was going to play out, replied: 'Sending prayers so they receive swift help.'

Ismael Ligues added: 'How terrible whats happened. People who wanted to experience a beautiful adventure end up losing their lives.'

Eduardo Enrique Polanco Dacosta wrote: 'Terrible news. This confirms once again how unpredictable the climate is on Circuit O in the Torres del Paine park. Hope to God more people are not involved.'

The five people who died, including British national Victoria , were named by the Magallanes Regional Presidential Delegation which represents Chiles central government in the region where the tragedy took place.

It said in a statement: 'We can confirm that apart from the two Mexican people who died, three others have also lost their lives, a German woman, a Mexican man, and a British woman, who formed part of the group of seven people reported as missing.

'The search and rescue operation has now concluded, with no more missing people at this time.

'The names of the people who died are Mexicans Cristina Cristina Calvillo Tovar and Julian Garcia Pimentel, British national Victoria Bond, and Germans Nadine Lichey and Andreas Von Pein.'

Regional presidential delegate Jose Ruiz Pivcevic said late yesterday: 'We regret to have to inform you five people have died.

'We send our condolences to their families and friends...

'Were now in the phase of evacuating the bodies where aerial resources will be prioritised as long as Air Force helicopters can operate in the area and weve already initiated conversations with the corresponding consulates so their bodies can be repatriated.

'We know its an area with very difficult access where meteorological conditions are a key factor.'

Paying tribute to those who died, a spokesman for a private transport group covering the Ultima Esperanza province where the tragedy occurred, said: 'As the Ultima Esperanza Tourism Transport Association, we express our deepest condolences for the tragic events that occurred in Torres del Paine National Park, where five international visitors sadly lost their lives.

'We wish to honour with respect and solemnity the memory of those who died.

'Today we join in the grief of their families, friends and loved ones, sending them our sincere condolences from Patagonia.

'We also stand with the tourists and tourism workers who were affected by this tragedy.

'Those of us who work here every day know the beauty of Torres del Paine, but also its power and unpredictable nature.

'These events move us deeply and remind us of the importance of safety and collective commitment to protecting those who visit us.'

Victoria described herself online as a 'competent and creative individual with nearly 18 years experience in the luxury fashion, travel and lifestyle industry'.

She spent nearly six years as a freelance fashion assistant for Conde Nast and also worked at Harrods, where she was a fine jewellery and watches PR executive, before leaving London to return to her native Cornwall.

The former Truro High School for Girls pupil said on her LinkedIn profile: 'I am a capable, competent and creative individual with nearly 18 years experience in the Luxury Fashion, Travel and Lifestyle industry, the last 13 years solely within consumer Public Relations.

'I am currently based in Cornwall where I specialise in travel and lifestyle communications on a freelance basis.

'My main client is Visit Isles of Scilly, retained since 2019.

For the three years prior to this, I was Senior Account Director at Marylebone-based Emma Beckett PR where I worked with clients including Jaeger-LeCoultre, Boucheron, Boghossian, Messika, Pippa Small, Shaun Leane, DeMellier, Jennifer Chamandi and Laurence Dacade.

'Previous to this, I was a Director at Push PR, a London agency specialising in lifestyle brands across fashion, travel, beauty, wellbeing and interiors.

'Prior to Push PR, I managed the PR for the Harrods Fine Jewellery & Watches department.

'Before moving into public relations, I worked for five years as a stylist and editorial assistant within a multitude of publications including several Conde Nast UK and International titles such as Vogue, Vogue China, GQ, Italian Vanity Fair, Italian GQ and Vogue Bambini.

'I also worked on an assistant basis for high-profile individuals and broadcast media (including live television shows and music videos) with actress Annabelle Wallis, Cheryl Cole and Girls Aloud.

'Commercial clients such as advertising campaigns and catalogues include Replay Jeans, high street chain Next, activewear brand Henry Cottons and menswear Pitti shows in Florence.'

Friends were paying tribute to her today as news of her death reached the UK.

Gerry Sims wrote on social media: 'When I got the phone call this morning to be told this I have been in shock. VB lit up a room.

'As sad as it is we have lost a legend today, Im pleased I got to know her, and glad to call her my friend.

'Going to miss you mate. RIP VB.'
A grinning Iraqi migrant gave a woman, 20, the thumbs-up before he launched into a terrifying sex attack on a train.

In the footage, taken from inside Crawley Train Station on September 22 this year, Hawre Mohamed and can be seen talking to the victim and gesturing at her before he barges through the ticket barriers and gives her a thumbs up.

The 27-year-old then boarded the same Thameslink train as the student - who was travelling home from college - and told her 'I want to have sex with you'.

He then proceeded to grope and attempt to kiss her.

Mohamed had spent the day attempting to approach random women before he carried out the assault.

When he was stopped by police, the migrant said: 'I haven't done anything wrong.'

Croydon magistrates' court heard that Mohamed sat down next to the student and asked her: 'Where do you live? Do you have a partner?'

Barto de Lotbiniere, prosecuting, said that as the woman attempted to get away, Mohamed 'pushed his body towards her and tried to kiss her'.

In the footage, taken from inside Crawley Train Station on September 22 this year, Hawre Mohamed and can be seen talking to the victim and gesturing at her before he barges through the ticket barriers

Mohamed gave the student a thumbs up before he groped and attempted to kiss her on an almost empty train

It left the vulnerable victim 'trapped by a window seat' in an almost empty carriage.

As she asked him to stop he repeatedly shouted: 'No, no, no'.

Mr de Lotbiniere continued: 'The defendant engaged the victim in conversation regarding pushing through the train ticket barriers. The conversation was brief, and the two boarded the train.

'He followed the complainant down the train and sat immediately next to her. He engaged her in conversation and squeezed her bum.

'At one point, the defendant went in for a kiss and held the complainant's thigh once again.

'The defendant was a complete stranger to her.'

The Sun reported that at the time of the attack Mohamed had been living in the three-star, 100-a-night, taxpayer-funded Four Points by Sheraton Hotel near Gatwick Airport.

His asylum claim is still being processed by the Home Office.

The 27-year-old then boarded the same Thameslink train as the student - who was travelling home from college - and told her 'I want to have sex with you'

The young woman, who can't be named, told the court that before the attack started he was 'staring at me in a very inappropriate way'.

She said: 'I was very shaken and distressed. I felt violated.'

The victim went on: 'He asked me what my age was. I said I am 20. His response was I don't go below 18 years old.'

After his arrest, Mohamed insisted the victim 'wanted sex'.

He said: 'She had a nice attitude. I like to move my hands around.

'She was pleased. I could see that. She wanted sex. I don't know why her mood changed.'

Eleanor Umeyor, defending, insisted Mohamed had 'moved away' when 'consent was withdrawn'.

District Judge Nicola Fleck said the victim had not given consent and found Mohamed guilty of sexual assault.

She told vile Mohamed: 'You followed her down the train and asked to sit next to her.

'I am satisfied that she did not request this, instigate it, or want it she did not consent to this touching.'

Judge Fleck added: 'The complainant provided clear and consistent evidence and in my judgement was a witness of truth.'

The victim bravely faced Mohamed without a witness screen as the verdict was read out.

Mohamed was tearful as the verdict was read out and he was told he faced prison time and would be remanded in custody.

He will be sentenced on December 8.
Gulu, Uganda  The United Nations World Food Programme (WFP) has today welcomed a contribution of over 2,500 metric tons of rice, valued at USD 2.9 million, from the Republic of Korea during a handover ceremony at WFP's logistics hub in Gulu, Northern Uganda. This contribution will support the food needs of 600,000 refugees in thirteen settlements and 200,000 school children in the food insecure Karamoja region for one year. WFP currently supports 700,000 refugees with food, cash, as well as programmes to increase self-reliance and improve the nutrition of mothers and their children. In May this year, severe funding shortfalls forced WFP to suspend food assistance to one million refugees while dramatically cutting ration sizes for others.

"Over the years, the Republic of Korea has provided consistent and reliable support when it has been needed most," said Lauren Landis, WFP's Country Director in Uganda. "At a time when humanitarian funding gaps threaten to push vulnerable families deeper into hunger, Korea's contribution demonstrates the power of international solidarity in addressing the refugee crisis."

The rice will also boost school feeding programmes in Karamoja, where the Government in partnership with WFP provide daily hot meals to over 255,000 children in 320 schools across nine districts--a critical intervention in a region where one in four children suffers from chronic malnutrition.

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"The Republic of Korea is proud to stand with Uganda and the international community in supporting refugees who have been forced to flee their homes," said H.E. Park Sung-soo, Ambassador of the Republic of Korea to Uganda. "This contribution reflects Korea's commitment to humanitarian principles and our recognition of Uganda's generous refugee hosting policies. By supporting both refugees and school children in Karamoja, we are investing in immediate food security and long-term human capital development. We believe that ensuring access to nutritious food and education is fundamental to helping vulnerable communities restore dignity and hope for their futures."

Uganda hosts Africa's largest refugee population - approximately 1.9 million people - primarily fleeing conflicts in Sudan, South Sudan and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Republic of Korea has been a major contributor to WFP in Uganda, providing more than 26,000 metric tonnes of rice since 2018.
NATO members Romania and Poland scrambled fighter jets on Wednesday after Russian attacks in neighbouring Ukraine, with Bucharest saying a drone breached the country's airspace.

Moldova, which lies between Romania and Ukraine, also reported a drone breach, summoning the Russian ambassador.

Romania and Moldova have repeatedly seen violations of their airspaces, including drone fragments falling onto their soil, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

The incident is the latest in a series of drone sightings across mainland Europe, which have increased in frequency since September when more than 20 Russian drones breached Polish airspace.

The origins of several of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are unknown, but European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has described them as 'hybrid warfare' waged by Russian President Vladimir Putin.

On Wednesday Romania's defence ministry said that following Russian air strikes on Ukraine, a phone alert was sent out to residents of southeastern Tulcea county and for a few minutes, the signal of a drone was detected, which had entered approximately eight kilometres (five miles) into national airspace.

The drone disappeared then reappeared intermittently on radar for approximately 12 minutes, the ministry said, with a phone alert also being sent to residents in southeastern Galati county.

Two F-16s of the Romanian Air Force were scrambled, the ministry added, saying that no cases of aircraft impact with the ground have been reported.

Teams of specialists are ready to begin ground searches, it added.

Romania, bordering Ukraine, scrambled fighter jets early on Wednesday after a fresh drone incursion into its territory. Pictured: Pilots of the Romanian Air Force flying F-16 fighter jets in August

Moldova also reported its airspace was breached by a drone during the night and decided to summon the Russian ambassador on Thursday to convey the firm protest over the serious violation of national sovereignty, announced the foreign ministry.

After an exchange of information with partners in Ukraine and Romania, it has been confirmed that a drone flew over the national airspace, the country's defence ministry said in a press release, adding the aircraft flying at a low altitude of approximately 100 metres in the south was not detected on monitoring systems.

Poland, which became the first NATO member in September to shoot down drones during the ongoing war in Ukraine, also scrambled jets early on Wednesday morning following Russian strikes on neighbouring Ukrainian territory, without reporting any airspace breach.

Alert fighter pairs and an early warning aircraft were scrambled, and radar reconnaissance systems reached the highest state of readiness, announced the Operational Command of the Armed Forces via X.

On Monday, Romania ordered the evacuation of two villages - the first such evacuation in the country as a result of the war in Ukraine - after a Russian drone attack across the Danube river in neighbouring Ukraine set fire to a ship carrying liquefied petroleum gas.

The evacuation order was lifted on Tuesday.

Wednesday saw Russia launch one of its most intense bombardments of Ukraine to date since the full-scale invasion three years and nine months ago.

The timing of the horror followed reports about a new round of talks by the U.S. with Moscow and separately Ukraine aimed at brokering a peace deal.

Russian drones hit Kharkiv, wounding over 40 residents and damaging residential buildings, shops and critical infrastructure

At least 25 people were killed in a heavy overnight Russian missile and drone attack that struck an apartment building in the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil.

About 80 others were wounded as Russia fired 476 drones and 48 missiles at Ukraine, striking energy and transport infrastructure and forcing emergency power cuts in a number of regions in frigid temperatures.

Russian drones also struck apartment buildings in Ukraine's second largest city, Kharkiv, injuring 46 people, including two children aged nine and 13.

The drones sparked fires and forced dozens of residents to flee their homes, regional officials said.

A statement from Polands armed forces operational commander said: 'Due to the Russian Federation's attack on targets located in Ukrainian territory, Polish and allied air forces are operating in our airspace

'Duty fighter pairs and an early warning aircraft have been scrambled, and ground-based air defence and radar reconnaissance systems have reached the highest level of alert.

'These actions are preventative in nature and aimed at securing and protecting airspace, particularly in areas adjacent to the threatened areas.'

A NATO E-3A aircraft - with an Airborne Warning and Control System - was flying over Poland, evidently monitoring Wednesday mornings flights of Russian drones and missile systems over Ukrainian airspace.

Two German Eurofighter Typhoon fighters and a pair of Romanian F-16s were forced to deploy due to the Russian attacks, said Bucharest.

The German aircraft from Base 57 Mihail Kogalniceanu, serving as the Reinforced Air Police in member state Romania, flew amid Putins forces striking in Ukraine close to the River Danube border.

The F-16s of the Romanian Air Force, were scrambled from the 71st Air Base in Campia Turzii.

There were fears that a Russian drone had flown five miles inside Romanian territory.

'The drone reappeared intermittently on radars for approximately 12 minutes, from Colibasi (Republic of Moldova) to Foltesti and, subsequently, in the area of Oancea (Romania), with a Ro-Alert message being sent in the north of Galati County at 00:59,' said an air force statement from Bucharest.

Children aged nine and 13 were injured in the Russian attack on Kharkiv

A residential building on fire after a Russian drone strike in Semenivka, Chernihiv region

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky warned that 'people may be trapped under the rubble' following the strike on Ternopil.

'Every brazen attack on ordinary life shows that pressure on Russia is insufficient,' he said.

'Effective sanctions and aid to Ukraine can change this.

'The primary need is missiles for air defence, additional systems, increased capabilities of our combat aviation, and drone production to protect lives.

'Russia must be held accountable for its actions, and we must focus on everything that strengthens us and allows us to shoot down Russian missiles, neutralise Russian drones, and stop assaults. Thank you to everyone in the world who helps.'

The strike on a high rise residential building in Ternopil was described by Ukrainian sources as a 'deliberate war crime'.

A desperate rescue effort was underway after a residential building was reduced to rubble, said mayor Serhiy Nadal.

'There is no military sense in hitting residential areas in this city. It is obvious that this was done deliberately to kill as many sleeping people as possible,' said one Telegram outlet.

Power and heating cuts were reported as temperatures sank below zero.

Explosions rock Lviv amid another massive Russian strike on western Ukraine

Russia unleashed missiles and drones across Ukraine, leaving at least 46 wounded in its second largest city Kharkiv

A firefighter tends to a fire in a residential building in Semenivka, Chernihiv region

Plumes of smoke following an explosion in Lviv, western Ukraine

'The only thing Russians know how to do "well" is bomb, explode, and kill,' reported Telegram channel Nevzerov.



Strikes were targeted at Burshtyn Thermal Power Plant in Ivano-Frankivsk region, where two children were wounded.

Missile and drone strikes on Lviv led to explosions and fires, with a warehouse in flames.

Power outages were reported in the city after a power plant was hit.

Ukraines human rights commission Dmytro Lubinets said: 'Russia has once again shown that its goal is destruction and death.

'Overnight the aggressor country struck Ukraine again.

'Kharkiv - 46 injured, including two children. Fires, destroyed houses, completely burned-out entrances.

'Lviv and Ternopil are also under attack.

'In Ternopil, an entire residential building lost its upper floors - where people were peacefully sleeping at that moment.

'The aggressor is not stopped by statements, appeals, or formal condemnations. Only concrete actions can stop it.'

Burnt cars on a residential street after Russian drones hit Kharkiv, damaging shops and critical infrastructure

Explosions rock Ternopil as Russia launches a new strike, where at least 25 died

Missile and drone strikes on Lviv led to explosions and fires, with a warehouse in flames

The strike on a high rise residential building in Ternopil was described by Ukrainian sources as a 'deliberate war crime'

Debris of ATACMS missile found after Ukrainian strike as Russia claims all four were shot down over Voronezh

The latest Russian attacks followed Ukraine firing - for the first time - four U.S. supplied ATACMS ballistic missiles at a target in Voronezh

In strikes by Ukraine, the Ilsky oil refinery in Krasnodar region was hit, and airports - including Gelendzhik - close to Putins largest palace, closed.



In Russian-occupied Donetsk region, more than half a million people were left without power - leading to a state of emergency being called after Ukrainian attacks.

The latest Russian attacks followed Ukraine firing - for the first time - four U.S. supplied ATACMS ballistic missiles at a target in Voronezh.

Moscow claimed they were all shot down but there are doubts over the Russian claims.

The missiles have been used previously - for example in Operation Iraqi Freedom - to destroy enemy command posts, leading to suspicions that this was the type of target.

Russias devastating attack coincided with Zelensky arriving in Ankara on Wednesday for talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

It followed reports of behind the scenes discussions on a peace agreement between Russia and the U.S., Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff and Putin envoy Kirill Dmitriev in Miami.

This resulted in a 28-point plan covering peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, security in Europe, and future U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine, according to Axios.

Ukraine had no role in preparing the proposals - which are modelled off the Gaza plan - a senior official told Reuters.

Separately, Trump sent a military delegation to Kyiv for negotiations headed by the Army Secretary Dan Driscol, U.S. Army Chief of Staff Randy George and the commander of U.S. forces in Europe Chris Donahue.
The UK lacks a plan to defend itself from a military attack, MPs warned as the Government promised to boost readiness with new arms factories.

At least 13 sites across the UK have been identified for new factories to make munitions and military explosives, with Defence Secretary John Healey expecting the arms industry to break ground at the first plant next year.

In a speech in London he will say the 'new era of threat' presents an economic opportunity with at least 1,000 new jobs to be created.

His speech comes as the Commons Defence Committee issued a stark warning about the UK's ability to fight a war and meet its Nato obligations in the wake of Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.

Mr Healey will confirm the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has funded a number of feasibility studies for new energetics factories - producing explosives, pyrotechnics and propellants - to kickstart high-volume production in the UK for the first time in nearly two decades.

Potential sites for the 'factories of the future' include Grangemouth in Scotland, Teesside in north-east England and Milford Haven in Wales.

Mr Healey will say: 'For too long our proud industrial heartlands saw jobs go away and not come back. We are changing that. Bringing new hope. This is a fundamental shift from the failed approach of the past.

'This is a new era of threat but the opportunity of this new era is a defence dividend from our record investment, measured in good jobs, thriving businesses, new skills for the British people.'

Defence Secretary John Healey and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales anchored of the coast of Naples, Italy, on Monday

John Healey and Yvette Cooper during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales off Naples on Monday

In June, the MoD committed 1.5 billion of additional defence investment for energetics and munitions.

The Government is committed to building at least six new munitions and energetics factories before the next election, creating at least 1,000 jobs.

Mr Healey will also announce the opening of two new drone factories this week in Plymouth and Swindon.

'We are making defence an engine for growth, unambiguously backing British jobs and British skills as we make the UK better ready to fight and better able to deter future conflicts,' the Defence Secretary will say.

'This is the path that delivers national and economic security.'

Mr Healey will say that, at next week's Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves will ensure there will be no return to the 'hollowed out and underfunded' armed forces of the past.

Ahead of the Defence Secretary's speech, Sir Keir Starmer travelled to Berlin to discuss defence and security issues over dinner with German chancellor Friedrich Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron.

The dinner came as negotiations over Britain's participation in a 150billion (132billion) European defence fund continue, with The Times reporting that the Government was considering walking away from the talks over French demands that the UK pay 5billion to the EU to take part.

Defence Secretary John Healey arriving for a Cabinet meeting in Downing Street yesterday

The challenges facing the Government and defence industry were laid bare in the parliamentary committee's report.

'The UK lacks a plan for defending the homeland and overseas territories,' the MPs warned as they called for the public to be given more information about the scale of the threat and the response that is required.

The committee's chairman, Labour's Tan Dhesi, said: 'Putin's brutal invasion of Ukraine, unrelenting disinformation campaigns, and repeated incursions into European airspace mean that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand.'

He added: 'We have repeatedly heard concerns about the UK's ability to defend itself from attack. Government must be willing to grasp the nettle and prioritise homeland defence and resilience.

'In achieving this, Government cannot shy away from direct engagement with the public.

'Wars aren't won just by generals but by the whole of the population getting behind the armed forces and playing our part.

'There needs to be a co-ordinated effort to communicate with the public on the level of threat we face and what to expect in the event of conflict.'
Newly-released bodycam footage captures the moment a great-grandmother was struck and killed by a police officer escorting the Duchess of Edinburgh to Windsor - as her family prepare to sue over what they call a 'terrible injustice'.

Relatives of Helen Holland are now taking legal action against the Metropolitan Police, insisting that the acquittal of PC Christopher Harrison proves officers are 'above the law'.

Ms Holland, 81, died in hospital two weeks after she was hit at a pedestrian crossing in Earl's Court in May 2023, as the royal convoy travelled west out of London.

In the footage, PC Harrison, now 68, can be seen accelerating past colleagues and approaching a red traffic light just as Ms Holland steps into the road.

Last week, a jury at the Old Bailey found him not guilty of causing death by careless driving, returning its decision in just over two hours.

The ruling immediately sparked anger in the public gallery, where someone shouted: 'You ruined our family with no consequences.'

Family members left the court in tears, convinced accountability had slipped away. Ms Holland's brother Chris Holmes and granddaughter Kelly Williams told ITV News the verdict pushed blame onto Ms Holland even though she had crossed on a green man.

Chris said: 'If the policeman is not guilty of careless driving, then she's guilty of careless walking. I feel there's a terrible injustice.'

Kelly called the outcome 'a two-tier justice system. The police are above the law.'

She warned the public to take extra care when crossing legally, adding: 'More people will die at the hands of the police because they can just go through a red light, kill a pedestrian when it's their right of way.'

They are now calling for an upper age limit for an officer carrying out high-speed escort duties - PC Harrison was 66 at the time of the incident.

Last week, a jury at the Old Bailey found PC Christopher Harrison not guilty of causing death by careless driving, returning its decision in just over two hours.

Ms Holland died in hospital two weeks after being hit at a pedestrian crossing in Earl's Court in May 2023 while the royal convoy was heading west out of London

The family of grandmother Helen Holland, who was killed by a police motorcyclist escorting the Duchess of Edinburgh after he sped through a red light, say they are suing the Metropolitan Police to prove she 'did nothing wrong'

PC Harrison told the court Ms Holland 'just appeared' in front of him - a claim her family reject

During the trial, jurors heard the experienced escort rider was travelling between 44mph and 58mph in a 30mph zone as he approached the controlled crossing, which was showing red for traffic.

He told the court Ms Holland 'just appeared' in front of him - a claim her family reject.

Other witnesses described a devastating impact, with one telling the court the pensioner landed 'like a ragdoll' after being thrown into the air.

Ms Holland, a mother, grandmother and great-grandmother, had set off just minutes earlier from her sister's flat to return to Essex when she was struck.

She was nearly three metres into the carriageway when the bike hit her. The convoy had already been warned the lights had turned red, the court heard, but PC Harrison rode through around 18 seconds later.

Although escort officers are permitted to drive through red lights and exceed speed limits, prosecutors said they 'still had a duty to drive carefully'. The road has since been reduced to a 20mph limit.

PC Harrison, a Met escort rider for more than two decades, became emotional while giving evidence, telling the jury: 'As soon as I had vision of Mrs Holland, I braked. She was just there in front of me - she just appeared.' His motorcycle was later found to have no faults.

Outside court after the not-guilty verdict, Ms Holland's son Martin said: 'The public want to be very careful when they cross at a green light because the police could kill them.'

The Met released a statement saying its 'thoughts and sympathies' remained with the family and insisted it was 'deeply sorry'.

Ms Holland was nearly three metres into the carriageway when the bike hit her

Dorothy, the 88-year-old sister of Helen Holland, with Helen's daughter-in-law Lisa-Marie placing flowers on West Cromwell Road in west London

Mr Harrison, of Billericay, Essex, became emotional when he gave evidence this week as he recalled the moment he crashed into Ms Holland in Earl's Court in 2023

Relatives of Helen Holland, 81, insist the acquittal proves the justice system treats officers differently and claim the verdict has left them shattered

Commander Adam Slonecki said changes had been made, including fitting motorcycles with bullhorns to improve warnings.

The police watchdog has said PC Harrison may still face a gross-misconduct hearing.

But Ms Holland's relatives say that is not enough and they now plan to sue the Met. Martin told The Times the family's fight is not about money but accountability: 'We're not in the slightest bit interested in compensation - it's about proving that mum did nothing wrong.

'She would never take a risk. Certainly crossing a road was one of the big risks that was important to her.'
A financier who sued his own mother when she disinherited him after a bitter row over the ownership of her Chelsea townhouse has lost a 2.6million court battle.

Andrew Grijns stayed with his parents at the four-storey home for more than 20 years, enjoying a discount on rent that saved him more than 1million - all while carving out a successful career in London's finance world.

But after his father Leendert Grijns died in 2019, he fell out badly with his mother Janice Grijns, 80, accusing her 'of vilifying and bullying him and turning against him,' whilst she accused him of 'wanting her dead so that he could have the property'.

The feud culminated in Janice ordering her son to 'get out of my house as soon as possible', sparking a court clash with each claiming rights to the 3.85m west London home.

In return, Andrew launched a bid to send his own mother to prison, arguing he had been 'promised' two thirds of the value of the house - around 2.6m.

He also complained he had been forced to put up with her 'old-fashioned' interior decor for 25 years during his prolonged stay in the family home.

A judge at London's High Court has now thrown out his claim to Ms Grijns' millions, dismissing the argument he was 'disadvantaged' by living in his parents' plush property for most of his adult life.

The financier has been ordered to leave the property, with Judge Timothy Bowles accepting the mother's claim that her son has been 'trespassing' by standing his ground.

Financier Andrew Grijns, pictured, sued his own mother when she disinherited him after a bitter row over the ownership of her Chelsea townhouse and has now lost a 2.6million court battle

Pictured: The 3.4m four-storey home in which Mr Grijns stayed for more than 20 years. The feud saw his mother order him to 'get out of my house as soon as possible'

He now faces a massive court bill for the row, likely more than 1m, with estimated costs on his mother's side alone reaching around 750,000, the judge added.

Mr Grijns will also have to pay his own legal costs, plus 85k a year to compensate for the time he stayed in the house after he was told to leave in August 2023.

He must also account for any rent he received for letting part of the property out.

Mr Bowles said: 'The reality...is that Andrew has had the opportunity to live in a substantial property in a desirable part of London at very modest cost for the best part of a quarter of a century.

'Andrew...is a person who is entirely self-absorbed and whose paramount concern is entirely for himself.

'Andrew has, with some regularity, insulted and, to use the vernacular, "bad mouthed" his mother. He has accused her of vilifying and bullying him and of being evil, destructive and wicked. He has accused her...of senility and dementia.

'The true and stark position...was that Andrew chose to remain and make his life at the property, not because of any assurances made - there were none - but because it suited him.'

The court heard that Mr Grijns' parents - realtor-turned-academic Janice and banker Leendert - bought the four-bedroom, Georgian terraced house with a separate basement granny flat in 1994, with Andrew moving in by 1999.

In return, Mr Grijns even launched a bid to send his mother, pictured, to prison, arguing he had been 'promised' two thirds of the value of the house in Bury Walk - around 2.6m

A judge at London's High Court has now thrown out his claim to his mother's millions, dismissing the argument he was 'disadvantaged' by living in his parents' plush property, pictured

The financier had previously enjoyed a close and loving relationship with his parents but after his father died and Mr Grijns went through a divorce, things became strained between him and his mother - the sole owner of the Chelsea property.

He had requested he receive a larger share of the London property than his three brothers due to problems he thought might arise with US tax officials if he inherited American assets on his mother's death.

In 2015 his mother wrote an email explaining her intention to leave him two thirds of its value, with the remaining third to be split between his brothers.

Mr Grijns replied, describing himself as 'lucky and grateful'.

But in 2020, he and his mother fell out badly. Heated emails were exchanged, with Andrew making a 'series of complaints against his mother, accusing her of vilifying and bullying him and turning against him,' the judge told the court.

Mr Bowles said: 'Janice emailed Andrew, accusing him of wanting her dead, so that he could have the property and telling him to "get out of my house as soon as possible", that he could not live there hating and maligning her.'

He later claimed that he had lived there to his own detriment for decades rather than moving on and buying his own property.

Mr Grijns also claimed he had 'shaped his life around... promises made to him by his parents as to the future of the property' and done so 'despite the fact that the decor and arrangements of the property were old-fashioned and not, it would seem, to his taste...and despite the fact, as he says, that he would have preferred to buy a place of his own'.

The financier has been ordered to leave the property, with Judge Timothy Bowles accepting the mother's claim that her son has been 'trespassing' by standing his ground

The row all started when his father Leendert Grijns died in 2019. Before then, the family had enjoyed a more tranquil relationship

He later attempted to get his mother committed to prison over her attempts to regain possession of her house in August 2023.

Giving his ruling, Mr Bowles said: 'His case is that from 2004, when he would have been in his late 20s, he has elected to shape his life around implicit, but not explicit, promises made to him by his parents as to the future of the property.

'He has, on that basis, he says, improved the property and, most materially, eschewed other opportunities to make his own life in his own home, such that his mother having resiled from these alleged promises, he is now disadvantaged.

'He has done all this, as he sets out in his trial witness statement, despite the fact that the property was far too large for his needs, despite the fact that the decor and arrangements of the property were old-fashioned and not, it would seem, to his taste, despite the fact that the property was expensive to maintain and keep in repair and despite the fact, as he says, that he would have preferred to buy a place of his own.'

The judge told the court he found this 'wholly implausible and, candidly, utterly unrealistic'.

'The true reason as to why Andrew remained at the property, made his life there and, to the extent that he did, carried out improvements to the property, has nothing to do with promises, or assurances, but everything to do with his own wishes and convenience,' he added. 'Put shortly, it suited him to stay.

'Andrew was prepared to "construct" a case and assert assurances by his mother that were never made, in the hope, not realised, that a settlement would be achieved and the claim would not be fully investigated at a trial.

'It further seems to me that, over and above the pressure implicit in the pursuit of unfounded litigation against an elderly woman, Andrew chose to add to the pressures imposed upon his mother both by raising and pleading issues as to her capacity and then, late in the day, by issuing contempt proceedings against her.'
Furious mothers have condemned a council 'safer streets' campaign after drivers on the school-run were hit with 25,000 motoring fines - totalling 680,000 - in just one year.

Restrictions enforced by Medway Council in Kent prohibits motorists from using roads outside 11 schools at 'school gate times' - between 8:15 and 9am in the morning and 2:45 and 3:45pm in the afternoon.

But residents living near the schools have complained that the restrictions are only a 'money-making' scheme - and have simply pushed the same problems they experienced before the scheme to other streets.

Some residents living near Burnt Oak Primary School in Gillingham, Kent, one of the schools where Medway Council's restrictions are in place, say they're repeatedly forced to fight fines - despite being exempt.

Others say that although they agree with making school roads safer, the signs are too small and too complicated for drivers to follow, and hasn't stopped people speeding.

The scheme, launched in March last year, has already issued almost 25,000 fines Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), equivalent to 678,690.

Charmaine Gordon, 39, recently moved to Gillingham from Croydon in southeast London, where similar restrictions outside schools were enforced.

Dayna Rowe, a mother-of-two who lives on an adjacent road to the school, says she was forced to pay a fine after moving in in May and not knowing about the restrictions

Medway Council's School Streets Scheme prohibits motorists from using roads outside 11 schools at 'school gate times' - between 8:15 and 9am in the morning and 2:45 and 3:45pm in the afternoon

The mother-of-eight said: 'I can understand it, because there were cars speeding down and it was dangerous for children.

'But at the same time, it's a nuisance. It's just to make money for the council.

'They're trying to make money because they are losing money in a lot of ways.'

Ms Gordon added that little attention was paid to the genuine excuses from drivers who might not have known about the restrictions.

'If it's an elderly person, they should get their fine lifted,' she said. 'I was fined in Croydon for going a tiny bit down the prohibited road, then coming out when I realised the restrictions.

'When people shoot through, they should be fined.

'But I think the council see it as an opportunity to make money. It's all a scheme to make money, but they like to make it seem like they're helping us.'

Mother-of-two Demi Hunt, who has two children at Burnt Oak Primary School in Gillingham, Kent, arrived nearly an hour before her children get out of school to secure a parking space and avoid a fine

The scheme, launched in March last year has already issued almost 25,000 fines Penalty Charge Notices (PCNs), equivalent to 678,690

Charmaine Gordon (pictured with daughter Alicia) recently moved to Gillingham from Croydon in southeast London, where similar restrictions outside schools were enforced

Dayna Rowe, a mother-of-two who lives on an adjacent road to the school, says she was forced to pay a fine after moving in in May and not knowing about the restrictions.

'It was my fault, but it's a very small sign and a lot of people are caught by them,' the operating department practitioner, 36, said.

'I don't use that road anymore. People used it as a cut-through and the restrictions have pushed them onto this road now.

'It's a nightmare. I can't even get out of my own driveway sometimes.

'These things could cause accidents from people backed up, and I think the speed bumps do a better job of slowing drivers down.

'I think the restrictions are more of a money-making thing from the council.

'And you do wonder where the money is going, because the roads are still in a disastrous state.'

Adrian Pender, who has lived in the area for around a decade, said the signs warning drivers of the restrictions are far too wordy to be immediately understood.

'It's a common road to go down,' the 40-year-old said. 'I can understand it, because it's a pain around there when the schools are on - the roads are all clogged up.

'But the signs are terrible. People don't read them or take notice of them at all.

'If you're driving, there's so much description that you're not going to read it. I have to warn all my family members not to go down that road.'

Mother-of-two Demi Hunt, who has two children at Burnt Oak, arrived nearly an hour before her children get out of school, saying the restrictions and lack of non-resident parking make it near impossible to find a space.

'This is the only road that has an hour of free parking, so there's always a fight to get a spot,' the 26-year-old said.

'They did have a lollipop lady who was there for years, but they really need some sort of parents' car park.'

And one parent with two children studying at Burnt Oak said her partner had been fined three times for driving in the school zone during the restricted hours, despite having registered his vehicle as exempt.

'My partner drives, and the restrictions are an inconvenience,' the mother-of-two, who wished to remain anonymous, said.

'His car is registered, but he still gets fined, and the council try to argue that it's our problem. We have to appeal it each time and they act like we are the issue.

'If my partner has a day off and drives down that road, he gets a ticket. It's really annoying. And everyone just clogs up the other roads instead.'

Another resident said: 'We have a permit, so it doesn't affect us directly. But it does affect our visitors, deliveries... I think [the council] does everything to make money.

'I agree with making the road safer for children, but maybe a 20mph limit would be better.'

Medway Council said that between March 2024 and October 2025, 678,690 was paid through PCNs relating to the School Streets scheme.

A total of 24,669 PCNs were issued during the same period. Each fine is 70, or 35 if paid within 14 days.

A spokesperson for Medway Council said: 'The School Streets initiative has been designed to create safer, healthier streets for all of Medway's children, and is having a positive impact on road safety.

'Inevitably new restrictions can take a while to get used to, which is why we issued warning notices for first time offences during the initial six month period.

'We will continue to review the scheme and hope most residents, road users and parents appreciate the impact it is having to improve safety.'
All rulings by immigration judges are set to be published in a major victory for open justice.

The move by Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr follows a series of controversial cases where criminals and failed asylum seekers have been able to block or delay attempts to deport them using dubious appeals to human rights law.

Notorious cases include an Albanian criminal who was allowed to stay in Britain partly because his son had a 'distaste' for foreign chicken nuggets, and a paedophile who claimed he would not be able to access treatment for his alcoholism in Pakistan .

Currently, only rulings by senior judges in upper-tier tribunals are published, with any made by lower-tier tribunals staying off the public record.

By revealing the rulings of first-tier tribunal, it will be easier to hold judges accountable for their decisions and the reasoning behind them.

Baroness Carr - the most senior judge in England and Wales - announced the change in her 77-page annual report

'Work on publishing judgments from the First-tier Tribunal Immigration and Asylum Chamber has moved from setting principles to planning how it will work in practice,' she wrote.

'The board is reviewing the best platforms and processes to make all judgments publicly available. A scoping exercise to guide the full rollout of judgment publication is expected to finish within the next three to six months.'

The move by Lady Chief Justice Baroness Carr follows a series of controversial immigration tribunal cases

Robert Jenrick, the shadow justice secretary, praised the decision as a boost for transparency.

'A small win - the judiciary will finally lift the veil of secrecy over asylum tribunals,' he said.

'This will finally make it possible to scrutinise all decisions by judges. The public always deserved to know who is being allowed to stay and why.'

One farcical immigration tribunal decision concerned Albanian criminal Klevis Disha, 39, who was jailed in 2021 for two years for handling 300,000 of stolen cash.

Then Home Secretary Priti Patel ordered he should be deported to Albania and stripped of his UK citizenship, but Disha appealed - partly on the basis that his 10-year-old son had sensory issues with different types of food and 'will not eat the type of chicken nuggets that are available abroad'.

A first-tier tribunal ruled that it would be 'unduly harsh' to send the boy back with his father due to his food sensitivities.

Its decision was only made public after being overturned by a higher court.

Another Albanian, drug dealer Roland Matranxhi, was told by a first-tier tribunal judge that he could stay in the UK because his relationship with his wife might 'dwindle away' if he was deported.

Meanwhile, a Pakistani paedophile who claimed to be an alcoholic was allowed to delay his deportation partly on the basis that drinking is illegal for Muslims in his home country so he would not be able to access proper treatment.

Albanian drug dealer Roland Matranxhi was told by a first-tier tribunal judge that he could stay in the UK because his relationship with his wife might 'dwindle away' if he was deported

Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood has vowed to make it harder for foreign criminals or failed asylum seekers to avoid deportation by citing the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR).

Article 8 claims  in which foreign nationals argue it would be unfair to split them from relatives  will face a stronger 'public interest test', which will allow wider issues such as 'stretched public services' and 'economic prosperity' to be taken into account.

Labour's new package also said the definition of 'family' will be revised, so it 'should not normally go beyond immediate family members'. But both proposals are likely to lead to legal challenges.

Ms Mahmood has also said she wants to narrow the scope of another part of the ECHR.

Article 3, barring torture and inhuman or degrading treatment, has been interpreted very widely by the courts. But Ms Mahmood's plan weakly proposes opening discussions with the Council of Europe, which oversees the ECHR, to secure reforms.

Even if she secures agreement, this would take years. Sir Keir Starmer has vowed to keep Britain in the ECHR.
Miss Great Britain stunned audiences after falling flat on her face during the Miss Universe 2025 national costume competition in Thailand.

Footage shows Danielle Latimer stepping onto the stage at the Impact Challenger hall in Nonthaburi wearing a look inspired by Eliza Doolittle from the Oscar-winning 1964 film My Fair Lady.

The 37-year-old tripped as she handed out her bouquet before quickly brushing herself off, rising to her feet and shedding her coat to reveal a dazzling ball gown.

Many viewers were left fearing the contestant had injured herself - but Ms Latimer later revealed the dramatic fall had been deliberately choreographed, symbolising Doolittle's rise from rags to riches.

Speaking to her Instagram followers shortly after her performance, she said: 'I can't believe I just did that.

'I'm probably going to end up on the Daily Mail for falling on stage. I hope so. I gave my best.'

Ms Latimer then explained how she picked the costume because she identified with Eliza Doolittle's transformation from a cockney flower seller to an elegant lady.

Miss Great Britain stunned audiences after falling flat on her face during the Miss Universe 2025 national costume competition in Thailand. Footage shows Danielle Latimer, 36, stepping onto the stage wearing a look inspired by Eliza Doolittle

She trips as she hands out her bouquet before quickly brushing herself off, rising to her feet and shedding her coat to reveal a dazzling ball gown

Many viewers were left fearing the contestant had injured herself - but Latimer later revealed the dramatic fall had been deliberately choreographed, symbolising Eliza Doolittle's rise from rags to riches in My Fair Lady

'Those of you who asked me what my costume was I hope you get it. It's very me. For those who don't know me, I grew up in the East End of London in probably one of the most poverty stricken areas in the UK in the eighties,' she said.

'To be an East End cockney girl, with an East End accent who has refined herself to be on the Miss Universe stage is a representation of my transformation as a human being.'

Now in its 73rd year, the Miss Universe pageant is one of the world's longest-running beauty competitions.

The event regularly attracts millions of viewers and often generates headlines of its own - and this year is proving no exception.

Just days ago, a video sparked controversy at this year's event after viewers claimed it showed Miss Israel giving Miss Palestine hostile looks.

The clip went viral online after it seemed to show Melanie Shiraz, 27, glaring and rolling her eyes at Nadeen Ayoub, 27, who appeared to be standing next to her.

But Shiraz has since posted separate, 'original footage' from the event, showing her standing behind Ayoub and diverting her expression elsewhere.

Speaking to her Instagram followers shortly after her performance Latimer said: 'I can't believe I just did that. 'I'm probably going to end up on the Daily Mail for falling on stage. I hope so. I gave my best'

Ms Latimer then explained how she picked the costume because she identified with Eliza Doolittle's transformation from a cockney flower seller to an elegant lady

Now in its 73rd year, the Miss Universe pageant is one of the world's longest-running beauty competitions

The Israeli beauty queen has claimed the video where she appeared to give Miss Palestine the side-eye was 'edited' and from a 'third-party', and designed to intentionally mislead audiences.

In the wake of the viral clip, she said she received an onslaught of online hatred, including 'Hitler-related comments', resulting in her having to organise 'heightened security'.

'Its not only death threats, but sexual assault threats,' Shiraz told the New York Post. 'I experienced antisemitism before but I didnt think it would be this bad.'

'Hitler should have finished the job,' one comment from social media apparently read.

Shiraz took to Instagram to condemn the online 'hatred' she says she received following the clip, telling her 37,000 followers: 'This platform is meant to empower women.

'Using it to tear women down, sharing images without consent, and staying silent while a fellow competitor is attacked all undermine what we are meant to represent.'
This is the terrifying moment gunmen stormed a church in Nigeria and opened fire, killing two people and abducting a pastor before fleeing into the bush, according to police and local reports.

The horrific attack happened yesterday in Eruku, a town in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, shortly after 6pm.

It comes after US President Donald Trump, at the start of November, threatened military action over what he claims are the killings of Nigeria's Christians, a narrative which the Nigerian government has rejected.

This week, a top Christian group in the country insisted that a genocide against Christians is underway.

In the latest onslaught, police said officers and local vigilantes rushed to the outskirts of the town after hearing gunshots, but the attackers escaped before they could be confronted.

Officers searching the area later found the body of a victim identified as Mr Aderemi inside the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, where the shooting began.

Another victim, Mr Tunde, was discovered dead in the nearby bush. A vigilante named Segun Alaja was also hit by gunfire and taken to ECWA Hospital in Eruku for urgent treatment.

The harrowing clip, live-streamed from the church, begins with a man speaking at the church's pulpit. Moments later, multiple gunshots ring out as the congregation attempt to flee for their lives.

One of the gunmen can be seen gathering the belongings of frightened worshippers who tried to flee for their lives

Bloodstains on the floor of the Christ Apostolic Church, the day after an attack by gunmen in which people were killed and the pastor and some worshippers kidnapped, in the town of Eruku, Kwara state, Nigeria, November 19, 2025

Children can be heard screaming in fear as people, including the elderly, look for hiding spots.

Shortly afterwards, men armed with guns and machetes - some with face coverings -are seen as shots continue to ring out. The armed men then scour the hiding places, forcing frightened worshippers to come out.

One of the militants can be seen gathering the properties of churchgoers as others continue to fire. The video ends when the device live-streaming the church service is picked up by one of the alleged culprits.

Local residents told Sahara Reporters that the gunmen burst into the church while members were holding a service.

Witnesses said the attackers immediately began shooting, causing chaos as people tried to escape.

Sources said three worshippers were killed instantly, while others, including the pastor, were forced at gunpoint into the bush.

'The gunmen came in suddenly and started shooting. Three people were killed instantly,' one resident said.

'They gathered others at gunpoint and marched them into the bush. We still don't know the exact number taken.'

The attackers are believed to have used remote footpaths leading to nearby villages, leaving the community terrified and unsure how many people remain missing.

The horrific attack happened yesterday in Eruku, a town in the Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, shortly after 6pm

Local residents told Sahara Reporters that the gunmen burst into the church while members were holding a service

Armed men, some with face coverings, stormed a church in Nigeria, opening fire at worshippers on Tuesday evening

Residents spent the night in fear as security forces continued searching the area, according to reports.

In a statement, police spokesperson SP Adetoun Ejire Adeyemi said: 'The Kwara State Police Command confirms an attempted bandit attack in Eruku, which occurred at about 18:00 hours of today, 18th November, 2025.

'The DPO Eruku and his team of Police operatives, in collaboration with vigilantes, swiftly responded to the sound of gunshots emanating from the outskirts of the town, prompting the hoodlums to flee into the bush.'

The statement added: 'CP Adekimi Ojo commended the swift response of the police and vigilantes, he also assures the public that security agencies will not relent until these hoodlums are totally decimated. Further updates will be provided as investigations progress.'

It comes after the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) warned that Christians in the country are facing a genocide. It's president, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, said: 'It would be a grave injustice to deny the painful reality of what has transpired.

Describing the situation as a 'ticking time bomb', he added: 'Lives have been brutally cut short, communities uprooted from their ancestral lands, families torn apart, churches razed, and hopes shattered. CAN has spoken clearly and courageously on this matter, and we stand by our position that there is Christian genocide in Nigeria.'

In recent months, violence against Christian communities in Nigeria has escalated sharply, with many killed and others kidnapped or displaced.

In June, residents of Yelewata, a Christian farming village, were asleep when attackers invaded, shooting and hacking to death innocent residents. Over 100 people were killed in that massacre.

Bullet holes in one of the windows of the Christ Apostolic Church, the day after the attack

In recent months, violence against Christian communities in Nigeria has escalated sharply

Frightened churchgoers were forced to look for hiding spots when the gunmen started shooting during church service

The video ends when one of the men discovers the device the service was being live streamed on

According to a report by Intersociety covering the period 28 October to 11 November 2025, at least 101 Christians, including four clerics, were killed, 114 were abducted, and six churches were ransacked.

In mid-October, it was reported that 13 people were killed when Fulani militants opened fire on a Christian community in Plateau State. Five children were among those murdered.

Just this Monday, reports said that a Catholic priest had been kidnapped, while another cleric was killed in Ksuhe Gugdu, Kagarko.

In the north-west and central 'Middle Belt' regions, especially states such as Kaduna, Taraba, Plateau and Benue, armed militants on motorbikes have raided villages, stormed church services, kidnapped entire congregations and demanded ransom, sometimes forcing hostages to renounce their faith.

It has led to a diplomatic row between Nigeria and the United States, with president Donald Trump threatening military action against Nigeria.

On social media, he wrote: 'If the Nigerian Government continues to allow the killing of Christians, the USA will immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria, and may very well go into that now disgraced country, 'guns-a-blazing,' to completely wipe out the Islamic Terrorists who are committing these horrible atrocities.'

In September, US senator Ted Cruz introduced a bill to sanction Nigerian officials who incite violence against Christians.

Yesterday, rapper Nicki Minaj, in a United Nations-organised event, called for urgent action to 'defend Christians in Nigeria, to combat extremism and to bring a stop to violence against those who simply want to exercise their natural right to freedom of religion or belief.'

Blood stains and items littered on the ground at a church in Owo, Ondo following an attack on worshippers in June 2022

US president Donald Trump has threatened Nigeria with military action if its leaders do not work to stop the slaughter of Christians in the country

Rapper Nicki Minaj addressing delegates at the United Nations headquarters yesterday. She called for urgent action to 'defend Christians in Nigeria'

Pope Leo XIV, on Sunday, also said that Christians are being discriminated against and persecuted in several parts of the world, singling out countries such as Nigeria, Bangladesh, Sudan, and Mozambique.

The Nigerian government rejects the idea of targeted religious genocide, stating the violence affects all communities, Muslim and Christian alike. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the country's president, said the US' rhetoric does not 'reflect our national reality.'

He also stressed his willingness to work with the American government on the 'protection of communities of all faiths'.

Analysts caution that the picture is more complex. While Christians are clearly among the victims, they say data indicate that the majority of attacks in Nigeria's north are not clearly faith-motivated but rather driven by banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and conflicts over land and resources.

Nevertheless, many victims and church leaders have insisted that Christians are being persecuted for their faith.

Religion in Nigeria is split down the middle, with both Christians and Muslims making up about half of the general population.

Nigeria has been plagued by significant violent issues across the country. The major flashpoints of the brutalities are in the North-East, North West-North Central, South-East, and the Niger Delta.

In some reported cases, family members have been forced to watch their loved ones being gunned or hacked to death. Others have also spoken about horrific sexual violence at the hands of attackers.

People gather for the funeral of a man who was killed following an attack by gunmen in Zike, north-central Nigeria, in April 2025

Onlookers gather around burnt our cars at the site of a bomb blast at the St Theresa Catholic Church in 2011. Attacks such as these have been reported for years

For years, Boko Haram, backed by the Islamic State, has terrorised several states and communities, wiping out whole villages and kidnapping people for ransom. Armed banditry has also been a major source of violence.

There have also been several reports of Muslim Fulani herders attacking Christian farming communities, especially in the country's Middle Belt.

Several analysts have pointed to poor governance, poverty, and ethnic tensions as the main catalysts of some of the violence.

On Monday, it was reported that at least 25 students had been abducted at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in Maga, Kebbi State, after armed men killed a teacher and another sustained gunshot wounds trying to protect the students.
A Russian spy ship designed to 'gather intelligence' shone lasers at RAF pilots who flew overhead to surveil it as it arrived on the edge of British waters, the Defence Secretary has said.

Hours after a report claimed the UK lacks a plan to defend itself against foreign military attacks, John Healey said the research vessel Yantar had been spotted lurking north of Scotland.

The boat, operated by Russia's elusive deep-sea research unit GUGI, has been situated on the edge of the UK's waters for 'the last few weeks', Mr Healey said. It is suspected by the West to map vital undersea infrastructure such as internet cables.

A Royal Navy frigate and RAF P-8 reconnaissance planes were deployed to monitor and track the Yantar's moves, and to capture infrared photographs.

The Russians responded by directing lasers at pilots - an unprecedented escalation that the Defence Secretary was taking 'extremely seriously'.

'That Russian action is deeply dangerous, and this is the second time this year that this ship, the Yantar has deployed to UK waters,' Mr Healey said.

He has changed the Navy's rules of engagement to allow them to track the Yantar more closely.

'We have military options ready should the Yantar change course,' he added, though he would not go into detail, citing security reasons.

He did confirm, however, that a Royal Navy submarine was surfaced close to the ship the last time it was seen in British waters.

Mr Healey concluded: 'My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you, we know what you're doing, and if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.'

An infrared photograph of Russian spy ship Yantar taken following its recent arrival to the edge of British waters. It is thought to be capable of mapping underwater cables

Defence Secretary John Healey said a Russian spy ship had been spotted on the edge of UK waters

The Yantar (pictured, front of image, followed by a Royal Navy vessel) is a Russian spy ship operated by the elusive GUGI unit

This is the second time this year the Yantar has been sighted in waters close to Britain.

Last November, the ship was sent packing after 'loitering over UK critical undersea infrastructure' off the coast of Cornwall, having been chased out of the Irish Sea - and it was then seen again in January.

Actions to intercept and monitor the boat once more were a 'demonstration of a British readiness to act, a British capability to act', Mr Healey said.

He said of the boat: 'It isn't just a naval operation - it's part of a Russian programme... that is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

'Make no mistake: we will not tolerate a threat to the British people's essential connections underwater.'

Downing Street has not said what representations the Government has made to Russia following the appearance of the Yantar off British waters. A spokesman for the Prime Minister said: 'Our position on Russian interference is clear... (but) I'm not going to get into conversations on the diplomatic level.'

The Yantar is thought to be capable of launching submersibles capable of cutting undersea cables - which could cripple the UK's telecoms infrastructure. Moscow claims it is an 'oceanographic research vessel'.

It also passed through the English channel in 2018, and has been seen near Brazil and in the Mediterranean in areas where underwater infrastructure lies.

Some 99 per cent of all internet traffic is passed through undersea cables, making them particularly vulnerable if attacked - and a potent target for Putin should he wish to cripple Western nations.

Last year, a power cable and four fibre optic cables between Finland and Estonia were damaged by a cargo ship carrying Russian oil - alleged to be part of Putin's 'shadow fleet' of vessels sailing with malicious intent.

Authorities accused the Eagle S of deliberately dragging its anchor to damage the cables. Russia has branded claims of a shadow fleet as a 'myth'. Helsinki District Court in Finland dismissed the case last month due to lack of jurisdiction.

The Defence Secretary has changed the Navy's rules of engagement allowing it to follow the Yantar at close distance (as seen in an image released by the MoD today)

As Mr Healey gave his speech at Downing Street today, the infrared photograph of the Yantar was displayed on a television screen

The Yantar (front) has made two visits to the edge of British territory in the last year - both times in areas where key underwater infrastructure is situated

An undated file picture of the Yantar. Russia maintains that it is an oceanographic research vessel

The sighting of the Yantar came as MPs warned that the UK is poorly equipped to defend itself from a military attack - as the Government promised to boost readiness with new arms factories.

The Commons Defence Committee issued a stark warning about the UK's ability to fight a war and meet its Nato obligations in the wake of Vladimir Putin's war in Ukraine.

'The UK lacks a plan for defending the homeland and overseas territories,' the committee's MPs warned as they called for the public to be given more information about the scale of the threat and the response that is required.

What is GUGI? The Main Directorate for Deep-Sea Research, known by its Russian acronym GUGI, is a highly secretive arm of the Russian Federation's armed forces. Founded within the navy in 1965 and accorded its status as an organisation a decade later, it is independent of the navy and answers directly to the Russian ministry of defence. It specialises in underwater subterfuge, using boats posing as research vessels to gather intelligence on enemy resources. GUGI-operated submarines allegedly eavesdrop on foreign communications and, if required, can inflict damage on critical modern-day infrastructure such as fibre optic cables. Little is known of how GUGI operates, but a 2019 fire on board the AS-31 Losharik submarine revealed the calibre of its staff: among the dead were seven Captain 1st rank officers, the highest rank in the Russian navy. Advertisement

The committee's chairman, Labour's Tan Dhesi, said: 'Putin's brutal invasion of Ukraine, unrelenting disinformation campaigns, and repeated incursions into European airspace mean that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand.'

He added: 'We have repeatedly heard concerns about the UK's ability to defend itself from attack. Government must be willing to grasp the nettle and prioritise homeland defence and resilience.

'In achieving this, Government cannot shy away from direct engagement with the public.

'Wars aren't won just by generals but by the whole of the population getting behind the armed forces and playing our part.

'There needs to be a coordinated effort to communicate with the public on the level of threat we face and what to expect in the event of conflict.'

Mr Healey confirmed today that the Ministry of Defence (MoD) has funded a number of feasibility studies for new energetics factories - producing explosives, pyrotechnics and propellants - to kickstart high-volume production in the UK for the first time in nearly two decades.

Potential sites for the 'factories of the future' include Grangemouth in Scotland, Teesside in north-east England and Milford Haven in Wales.

At least 13 sites across the UK have been identified for new factories to make munitions and military explosives. Mr Healey said he expects the arms industry to break ground at the first plant next year.

He said: 'For too long our proud industrial heartlands saw jobs go away and not come back. We are changing that. Bringing new hope. This is a fundamental shift from the failed approach of the past.

'This is a new era of threat but the opportunity of this new era is a defence dividend from our record investment, measured in good jobs, thriving businesses, new skills for the British people.'

A ship suspected to fall under Putin's 'shadow fleet' was detained last year after being suspected of using its anchor to damage cables between Finland and Estonia (pictured)

Defence Secretary John Healey and Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales anchored of the coast of Naples, Italy, on Monday

John Healey and Yvette Cooper during a visit to HMS Prince of Wales off Naples on Monday

Defence Secretary John Healey arriving for a Cabinet meeting in Downing Street yesterday

In June, the MoD committed 1.5billion of additional defence investment for energetics and munitions.

The Government is committed to building at least six new munitions and energetics factories before the next election, creating at least 1,000 jobs.

Mr Healey also announced the opening of two new drone factories this week in Plymouth and Swindon. He will visit Plymouth today.

'We are making defence an engine for growth, unambiguously backing British jobs and British skills as we make the UK better ready to fight and better able to deter future conflicts,' the Defence Secretary said.

'This is the path that delivers national and economic security.'

Mr Healey was also expected to say that, at next week's Budget, Chancellor Rachel Reeves will ensure there will be no return to the 'hollowed out and underfunded' armed forces of the past.

Ahead of the Defence Secretary's speech, Sir Keir Starmer travelled to Berlin to discuss defence and security issues over dinner with German chancellor Friedrich Merz and French president Emmanuel Macron.

The dinner came as negotiations over Britain's participation in a 150billion (132billion) European defence fund continue.

The Times reported that the Government was considering walking away from the talks over French demands that the UK pay 5billion to the EU to take part.
An Indonesian volcano has erupted and spewed an enormous 54,000ft ash cloud, causing Australia to trigger a red flight safety warning.

Mount Semeru erupted on Wednesday and the country's volcanology agency increased the alert level of Java Island's tallest mountain to the highest.

Australia's Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) issued a warning about the enormous volcanic ash plume, visible in astonishing footage posted on social media by civilians running to safety.

'The ash column was observed to be gray with thick intensity to the north and northwest. At the time of this report, the eruption was still ongoing,' Mount Semeru Observation Post Officer, Mukdas Sofian said.

Mount Semeru is at Alert or Level II status and the public have been warned to avoid the southeastern area, especially along Besuk Kobokan within 8km of the summit.

'Beyond that distance, the community should not carry out activities within 500m of the riverbank along Besuk Kobokan because of the potential for being hit by the expansion of hot clouds and lava flows up to a distance of 13km from the peak,' Sofian said.

He also urged residents to avoid being within a 3km radius of the crater to avoid any incandescent rock ejections.

'The public is also asked to be aware of the potential for hot clouds, lava flows, and lahars along rivers/valleys that originate at the peak of Mount Semeru Volcano, especially along Besuk Kobokan, Besuk Bang, Besuk Kembar, and Besuk Sat, as well as the potential for lahars in small rivers that are tributaries of Besuk Kobokan,' Sofian said.

An Indonesian volcano has erupted and spewed an enormous 54,000ft ash cloud, causing Australia to trigger a red flight safety warning.

Mount Semeru erupted on Wednesday and the country's volcanology agency increased the alert level of Java Island's tallest mountain to the highest

Australia's Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) issued a warning about the enormous volcanic ash plume, visible in astonishing footage posted by on social media

Mount Semeru volcano spewing volcanic materials during an eruption in Lumajang, East Java, Indonesia, November 19, 2025

The volcano lies on the country's most densely populated island

The volcano - about 310 kilometres west of the tourist hotspot of Bali - is believed to have erupted three times with the first occurring at 4.10am Western Indonesian time, producing a thick and grey ash column.

The eruption was recorded on a seismograph with a maximum amplitude of 22mm and a duration of 142 seconds.

The mountain then erupted again at 5.09am Western Indonesian Time (WIB), with a maximum amplitude of 22mm and a duration of 150 seconds.

A third and final eruption was recorded at 6.05am. The ash column was observed to be white and grey, with a thick intensity toward the southeast and south.

'The eruption was recorded on a seismograph with a maximum amplitude of 22 mm and a duration of 137 seconds,' said Sofian.

'The public is advised not to engage in activities within an 8km radius of the crater or peak of Mount Semeru due to the risk of being struck by ejected rocks,' Indonesian geological agency head Muhammad Wafid said.

The geological agency also said that seismic activity at Mount Semeru remained high.

There have been no immediate reports of casualties caused by the eruption.

Authorities at Ngurah Rai airport in Bali said flight schedules were operating as usual so far.

The volcano lies on the country's most densely populated island.

It unleashed avalanches of searing clouds of hot ash and a mixture of rock, lava and gas that traveled up to 7km (4.3 miles) down its slopes several times since midday to dusk, Indonesia's Geology Agency said.

The eruption throughout the day blanketed several villages with falling ash and forcing authorities to raise the volcano's alert level twice, from the third-highest level to the highest.

Semeru, also known as Mahameru, has erupted numerous times in the past 200 years. Still, as is the case with many of the 129 active volcanoes in Indonesia, tens of thousands of people continue to live on its fertile slopes.

An eruption by Semeru in 2021 killed more than 50 people and damaged more than 5,000 homes, forcing almost 10,000 people to seek refuge.

Semeru - sometimes called 'The Great Mountain' - is the highest active volcano in Java at 3,676m (12,060ft).

It is located on the border of Lumajang District and Malang District in East Java and is one of the region's most active volcanoes.

Indonesia, an archipelago of more than 270 million people, straddles the 'Pacific Ring of Fire', a highly seismically active zone, where different plates on the earths crust meet and create a large number of earthquakes and volcanoes.

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Mount Semeru is at Alert or Level II status

Residents have been told to avoid being within a 3km radius of the crater to avoid any incandescent rock ejections

The dense ash column appeared white to gray and drifted southward

The East Java Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) has evacuated elderly residents from Pronojiwo District and Candipuro District, Lumajang.

In a translated written statement the East Java BPBD said: The Rapid Response Team (TRC) of the Lumajang Regency BPBD carried out patrols and helped evacuate the elderly to safer places.

'The pyroclastic flow is still ongoing, with a maximum amplitude of 40mm. The pyroclastic flow reached a distance of 8.5km from the mountain peak. The wind direction is towards the north.

Japan Meteorological Agency is investigating whether there is possibility of tsunami following the eruption.
Oman open to Chinese archaeological cooperation, highlights UNESCO heritage

Xinhua) 09:54, November 19, 2025

MUSCAT, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Oman said Tuesday it is open to expanding archaeological cooperation with China as the country promotes its UNESCO-listed heritage and broadens international research partnerships.

Amina bint Abdullah Al Balushi, advisor in the Research and Studies Department at the Ministry of Heritage and Tourism, told Xinhua that Oman is open to Chinese scholars and research institutions taking part in archaeological and heritage-related projects, as the country seeks to strengthen cooperation in cultural preservation.

She made the remarks during an event titled "Extended Civilizational Heritage Between Oman and the World" organized by the Ministry of Information at the National Museum of Oman, which brought together 59 media professionals from 20 countries.

Al Balushi noted that Oman is home to five UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the renowned Land of Frankincense, adding that heritage preservation plays a key role in attracting visitors and promoting cultural exchange.

According to organizers, the event aimed to showcase Oman's historical and civilizational depth, present the authentic values defining the Omani identity, and highlight the country's contribution to global dialogue and cooperation.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Abuja, Nigeria  UNICEF strongly condemns the reported attack on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, in Northwest Nigeria, which resulted in the death of the school's Vice-Principal of the school and the reported abduction of 25 students. This tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely.

We stand with the affected community at this difficult time, our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured.

UNICEF further urges the swift release of the abducted children.

Students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack, and those responsible for this incident must be held to account in accordance with national and international standards.

In 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities to ensure safe access of students to education during conflict. UNICEF calls on all relevant stakeholders to continue efforts to implement the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria.

UNICEF is working with government partners, civil society and communities to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe and inclusive learning environments across the country. These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies.

No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education.
A man accused of stabbing 10 people on a train has been charged with further offences linked to the incident, police have announced.

Anthony Williams is due in court this afternoon to face a further seven offences following the mass stabbing on a train which saw it diverted to Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire earlier this month.

Williams, 32, of Langford Road, Peterborough, has been further charged with the attempted murder of a 14-year-old boy in Peterborough city centre on October 31 and attempted grievous bodily harm of a 28-year-old man in the city on the same day.

He has also been charged with the attempted murder of a 22-year-old man near Pleasure Fair Meadow Road in the city on 31 October, affray and possession of a bladed article in connection with an incident at Ritzy Barbers in Peterborough on the same day.

Wiliams has been further charged with theft of knives from an Asda in Stevenage, Hertfordshire, on October 31 and common assault of a 31-year-old man on board a train travelling between Hitchin and Biggleswade on 31 October.

British Transport Police said these were in addition to charges already authorised in relation to the major incident on the Doncaster to London Kings Cross train at Huntingdon.

Williams appeared at Peterborough Magistrates Court earlier this month charged with ten counts of attempted murder over the train rampage which left a member of rail staff critically injured.

Samir Zitouni, 48, an LNER customer host was credited with 'acting as a shield' to save 'multiple lives'.

Anthony Williams, 32, from Peterborough, will appear at Peterborough Magistrates' Court this afternoon charged with seven further offences

LNER staff member Samir Zitouni 'acted as a shield' to save passengers

Mr Zitouni, known as Sam, suffered multiple injuries but was discharged from hospital a fortnight after the attack.

Williams was also previously charged with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and one charge of possession of a bladed article following the incident on an LNER train on November 1.

The suspect was further charged with another count of attempted murder and possession of a bladed article in connection to an alleged attack at the Pontoon Dock station on London's Docklands Light Railway in the early hours of that morning.

A victim is alleged to have suffered a facial injury in that incident.

The train attack saw brave train staff and passengers intervene in a bid to stop the alleged attacker as he went through the train with a knife. The train made an unscheduled stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire, where the suspect was arrested.

Williams is due to appear before Peterborough Magistrates again this afternoon.

A forensic officer inspects the London North Eastern Railway (LNER) train after the incident

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Following the incident at Huntingdon, British Transport Police (BTP) took primacy on a wider investigation into Williams and the events leading up to what happened on the train.

BTP Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said: 'These are a significant set of new charges. Our investigation into the awful incident at Huntingdon has also focused on other offences previously reported to police or identified by our investigation.

'We have worked closely with our colleagues in Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to bring these charges.

'I would once again like to stress the importance of not saying or publishing anything which might jeopardise or prejudice ongoing criminal proceedings, or the integrity of the investigation.'

Following his release from hospital, Mr Zitouni's family said in a statement: 'We are so grateful for the outpouring of support from the public, and very touched by all the kind words about Sam's brave actions on the night of the attack.

'While we are really happy to have him home, he still has a significant recovery ahead and we would now like to be left in privacy to care for him as a family.'

The Huntingdon attack saw brave train staff and passengers intervene in a bid to stop the alleged attacker as he went through the train with a knife.

The suspect is understood to have boarded the train at Peterborough before allegedly rampaging through the moving train.

Passengers ran through the carriages, barricading themselves in toilets and behind the shutters of the onboard shop in the buffet car in a bid to protect themselves.

Driver Andrew Johnson - a veteran of the second Gulf War - frantically worked with Network Rail staff to arrange for the LNER Azuma to make an emergency stop at Huntingdon station in Cambridgeshire.

Police on the scene at Huntingdon train station in Cambridgeshire on the evening of November 1

Hero driver Andrew Johnson (pictured) had seconds to make the decision to divert the London-bound train to Huntingdon station after being alerted to the mass stabbing

As the train pulled into the station, cool-headed railway staff ushered passengers hurriedly down the platform as the suspect followed closely behind.

The alleged attacker, still brandishing a knife, crossed the railway tracks and leapt over a fence before being subdued by police.

Nine of the 11 injured people were left fighting for their lives  with five people discharged from hospital as of last night.

Mr Zitouni suffered the most egregious injuries trying to defend fellow passengers from the attacker.
Katie Price's ex-husband Kieran Hayler allegedly raped and sexually assaulted a 13-year-old girl while he was married to the star, a court has been told.

The personal trainer, 38, is alleged to have committed three counts of rape and one sexual assault between June and October 2016 - in the middle of his marriage to the ex-glamour model, 47.

The pair wed in 2013 and went on to have two children before splitting in 2018.

The alleged victim is not a member of either Ms Price or Hayler's families.

Hayler cowered from the heavy snow as he arrived at Crawley Magistrates' Court this morning wearing a thick black coat.

He spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address. He was not required to enter any pleas to the charges.

A representative for Hayler said: 'Kieran Hayler strongly denies the allegations made against him in its entirety.

Katie Price's ex-husband Kieran Hayler arrives at Crawley Magistrates' Court after being charged with the rape and sexual assault of a 13-year-old girl while married to the star

'Mr Hayler is fully engaged and has been co-operating with the police throughout the investigation and will continue to do so.

'He looks forward to his name being cleared believing in the judicial system to do so.'

Hayler was granted bail on the condition that he does not contact the alleged victim.

He is due to appear at Lewes Crown Court for a plea hearing on December 17.

Sussex Police said last month: 'We can confirm Kieran Hayler, 38, of Northchapel in West Sussex, has been charged with three counts of rape and one count of sexual assault against a 13-year-old girl.

'The offences are alleged to have occurred at an address in West Sussex between June 1 and October 13, 2016.

'Hayler remains released under investigation and is due to appear before Crawley Magistrates' Court on November 19.

'The girl, who cannot be named for legal reasons, has received support from specially trained officers as our enquiries continue.'

The pair, pictured in 2015, married in 2013 and went on to have two children before splitting in 2018

Hayler, who has also worked as an actor, stripper and reality star, first met Ms Price in 2012 before he proposed on Christmas Day of that year.

They married at the Sandals Royal Bahamian luxury resort in the Bahamas in January 2013.

This was followed by a wedding blessing ceremony at the Rookery Manor Hotel in Weston-super-Mare, Somerset in March of the same year.

The newlyweds then took a glamorous honeymoon to the Maldives.
The victim of a 38-year miscarriage of justice today claimed he was beaten by police and 'bullied' into falsely admitting to being a murderer.

Speaking for the first time after judges earlier this year quashed his conviction for the murder of florist Diane Sindall in 1986, Peter Sullivan alleged that he had been 'stitched up'.

Dubbed the Beast of Birkenhead after the brutal killing, the 68-year-old had long protested his innocence and is now in line for a 1.3million pay-out.

Following a special investigation by Stephen Wright in The Mail on Sunday, judges accepted that new scientific evidence recent advances in DNA analysis suggested an unknown male was responsible for the 21-year-old's sexually-motivated murder.

Today Mr Sullivan accused police of 'leathering' him with their truncheons when he was held for questioning over Miss Sindall's Merseyside murder.

He alleged that he was deprived of food and sleep and told that if he did not confess he would be charged with '35 other rapes'.

After admitting to the killing, he later retracted his confession, but was convicted after a jury heard about allegedly incriminating bite marks - a now widely discredited field of forensic science - and circumstantial evidence.

The former labourer - who has learning difficulties - said he could never 'forgive' officers for how they allegedly treated him.

Innocent Peter Sullivan  whose conviction was quashed in May for a murder he did not commit  says he was 'bullied' into wrongly confessing and 'stitched up'

Part-time barmaid Diane Sindall, 21, was savagely battered to death in August 1986, stripped half-naked, indecently assaulted, mutilated and bitten, and her body discarded in an alleyway

And he accused them of 'putting stuff into my mind'.

Mr Sullivan said he had 'lost everything', including being denied permission to attend his mother's funeral.

He told the BBC: 'I can't forgive them for what they've done to me, because it's going to be there for the rest of my life.'

In response Merseyside Police expressed its 'regret', but maintained its officers had acted within the law at the time.

Chief Constable Rob Carden - who took on the job earlier this year - said: 'It was a grave miscarriage of justice and obviously as chief constable of Merseyside it doesn't matter how long I've been there, I deeply regret the detrimental impact on Mr Sullivan's life.'

He will refer the original investigation into the murder to watchdog the Independent Office for Police Conduct.

The investigation into her murder continues, supported by the National Crime Agency, with hundreds of men screened and eliminated in the past two years.

Miss Sindall was brutally killed after she left work at a pub in Bebington, Birkenhead, just before midnight on Friday August 1, 1986.

Pictured on video link from Wakefield Prison when his conviction for murdering Diane Sindall was quashed in May, Peter Sullivan wrongly spent nearly 40 years behind bars

The Wirral pub where Diane Sindall worked to help pay for her forthcoming wedding

The bride-to-be, who was picking up barmaid shifts to earn extra money for her wedding, was walking to a garage to buy some fuel after her van broke down.

Her lifeless and brutally abused body was discovered 12 hours later in an alley.

At his trial, prosecutors said Mr Sullivan had spent the day drinking, and went out armed with a crowbar.

Evidence at the time suggested the petty thief had recently borrowed a crowbar from a neighbour.

He was placed near the scene by witnesses following a BBC Crimewatch appeal.

But he denied going anywhere near where the crime took place or having the crowbar in his possession, and said he had given different accounts to police because he could not remember his movements.

Mr Sullivan was handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years in 1987, but denied parole multiple times, largely due to his refusal to admit responsibility for the killing.

He applied to the High Court for permission to appeal against his conviction in 2019, but this was rejected by the Court of Appeal in 2021.

Police are now reinvestigating Miss Sindall's murder in the hope of bringing her killer to justice

Then, in November last year, the Criminal Cases Review Commission said his case had been referred to the Court of Appeal on the basis of the DNA evidence.

Samples taken at the time of the murder were re-examined and a DNA profile that did not match Mr Sullivan was found.

This crucial evidence was revealed by a method that only came into use in 2015, and he was finally freed after the Court of Appeal in London quashed his conviction in May.

Speaking from a secret location, and with his face obscured and voice changed to hide his current appearance, Mr Sullivan said he wanted an apology from Merseyside Police.

Mr Sullivan said being denied legal representation at his initial police interviews had been 'very daunting'.

He told the broadcaster he was beaten in his cell on two occasions.

'They threw a blanket over the top of me and they were hitting me on top of the blanket with the truncheons to try and get me to co-operate with them,' he said.

'It really hurt, they were leathering me.'

A memorial tablet on a grass verge close to the scene of Ms Sindall's murder

Asked why he would confess to a murder he did not commit, Mr Sullivan told the BBC: 'All I can say, it was the bullying that forced me to throw my hands in, because I couldn't take it anymore.'

He said he felt 'sorry' for Miss Sindall's family who are 'back at square one and not knowing who the person is that killed their daughter'.

Quashing his murder conviction in May, Lord Justice Holroyde said: 'Strong though the circumstantial evidence undoubtedly seemed at the trial, it is now necessary to take into account the new scientific evidence pointing to someone else - the unknown man.'

The new suspect identified by new DNA techniques does not appear on the national database, nor is he linked to any other unsolved offences.

Police have confirmed the DNA does not belong to any of Miss Sindall's family or her then fiance David Beattie, who has since moved to Australia.

Mr Sullivan is now entitled to 1.3million in compensation after ministers increased the cap for people wrongly jailed for 10 years or more.

In a lengthy response today, Merseyside Police accepted that Mr Sullivan was denied legal representation at his initial interviews.

It said this was due to the risk of the 'destruction of evidence' by the solicitors 'inadvertent dissemination' of information.

The force said it had been given no details about the officers who allegedly threatened and assaulted Mr Sullivan, and there was no information about this in the materials it had available.

Saying that the original investigation was conducted 'nearly 40 years ago', Merseyside Police added that it was 'very difficult to comment on investigative practices at that time, when seen through the lens of today'.

The force said there had been huge changes in the 'professionalisation' of police investigations since 1986, as well as around technology and the law.

'We understand the detrimental impact the conviction has had on the life of Mr Sullivan and do not underestimate the significance of being imprisoned for 38 years on his wellbeing.

'We are doing everything we can to find out who the new DNA evidence, which formed the basis of his release, belongs to.'
Labour has been accused of 'deliberately' crippling the oil industry as fears mount over Rachel Reeves' Budget.

Paul Greenwood, chairman of petrochemical giant ExxonMobil, blamed 'undermining' policies after confirming that an ethylene manufacturing plant in Fife will close next year.

He pointed to the decision to phase out North Sea activity, carbon dioxide levies and other cost burdens as factors making the UK industry less competitive.

Meanwhile, other business leaders have raised alarm about 'crazy' government announcements and warned of a brain drain as talented youngsters emigrate to look for a better life.

Ms Reeves has been facing a mounting backlash from economists and the private sector as she scrambles for more tax rises in her fiscal package next week.

The hike in employer national insurance, minimum wage costs and bolsters workers' rights have all added to the burden for companies - with criticism that they have crushed growth.

Paul Greenwood, chairman of petrochemical giant ExxonMobil, blamed 'undermining' policies after confirming that an ethylene manufacturing plant in Fife will close next year

Labour has been accused of 'deliberately' crippling the oil industry as fears mount over Rachel Reeves' Budget

Figures last week showed GDP effectively flatlining in the third quarter, having fallen in September, while unemployment is rising.

Speaking on the BBC's Today programme, Mr Greenwood said there are 'four keys to success' in the sector  a cheap and abundant supply of ethane, along with low-cost operations, good market prices for ethylene and a skilled workforce.

'I will be blunt  I have one of those keys to success in place, and that is a brilliant workforce,' he said.

'Two of those keys I deliberately do not have because of Government policy.

'Take the ethane supply: you know what's happening in the North Sea, we've had windfall taxes, we've had a ban on production licences  I need cheap sources of abundant ethane and I do not have them, because the North Sea  because of Government policy  is declining rapidly and that ethane is increasingly high price.

'If I come to the second part, which is I need to operate at low cost, I have to have a burden put upon me of CO2 taxes  we paid 20million last year in CO2 taxes, that will double in the next four or five years. My international competitors do not have those costs.

'I also have to deal with high energy costs and those kind of things, so these are deliberate Government policies that are undermining us.'

Separately, Sarah Barraclough, boss of developer Skipton Properties, told BBC Radio 5 Live's Wake Up to Money: 'At the moment the way I see it as a housebuilder, it has just been one big bad news story after Covid.

'It is literally like managing in a war situation. There is ever-changing legislation, crazy announcements coming out of the government, immigration out of control... it makes me worry about the housebuilders of the future when we are flooding the country full of people not willing to work.

'I am scared for our future, scared for my children's future... we try to promote the youngsters coming through because it's an aging workforce. But they are worried about it. They are wanting to go to Australia, they are wanting to travel the world and go somewhere else where this isn't their reality. Because this is scary.'

The Mossmoran closure is expected after the company 'considered various options to continue production and tested the market for a potential buyer', he said.

The Scottish Government has already pledged it will 'explore all options' to support workers at the plant  but Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes also made clear it was 'crucial' that Labour ministers at Westminster 'consider what more they can do for the workers at the plant and take urgent action'.

However, UK industry minister Chris McDonald has indicated the Government is not prepared to keep the site open.

Mr McDonald told MPs yesterday that 'where Government has intervened in the past, it has been where there's been a fundamentally sound business proposition'.

The SNP's Scottish Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said again she was 'extremely disappointed' by the decision to close the Mossmorran plant.

Ms Forbes however said that in discussions with the firm both last week and on Monday she had been 'surprised by how quickly that conversation moved from them actively marking the plant to finding no viable buyer, and therefore moving to the news that they would begin closure in February'.

Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland's Good Morning Scotland programme, Ms Forbes added: 'You have to look at the reasons ExxonMobil have given for their decision, and I have pushed them on these decisions in our conversations.

'But they have cited some of the policy and fiscal decisions that have been made in the UK that are making business less competitive.'

While she accepted there were 'challenges' for the company in terms of market conditions and high energy prices, she added: 'That will be cold comfort to the 179 ExxonMobil staff and the 250 contractors who yesterday learned that their jobs are at risk.'

The Mossmorran closure is expected after the company 'considered various options to continue production and tested the market for a potential buyer'

The Scottish Government's priority is now to look at 'whether there is an alternative future at the site' as well as to support the workforce at a 'really troubling time time', she added.

Ms Forbes said: 'What we want to be focusing in on is how we create new economic opportunities there, how we engage with the company, how even if they struggle to find a buyer whether there is other options for the site.

'The workers at the site are extremely highly skilled, they are absolutely critical to any just transition we take in this country, so we can not afford to lose them.

'And I think we need to do all that we can to retain that as a key employer and a key industrial site.'
Prince Harry will be the keynote speaker at a 270-a-head conference for estate agents in Canada despite spending most of his life living in grace-and-favour homes.

The Duke of Sussex will address 450 property professionals about 'service and leadership' at the Ontario Real Estate Association (Orea) Power House in Toronto.

Organisers of the event at the city's Hilton hotel on December 1 described Harry as a 'humanitarian, mental health advocate, environmentalist and military combat veteran'.

They said he aimed to create 'positive and lasting change for communities and the planet, particularly in advancing conversations around resilience and healing'.

Harry bought his first property in Montecito, California, for $15million (11million) in 2020, after stepping down as a senior royal and moving to the US with Meghan.

Last October, the Daily Mail revealed the couple had bought a home in Portugal - with royal experts claiming this could be the first part of a global property empire.

The Sussexes previously lived in royal homes in the UK including Frogmore Cottage in Windsor, which was leased. They paid 2.4million to cover the refurbishment and rental of the Grade II-listed Crown Estate property in Windsor Home Park.

Harry and Meghan also resided at Nottingham Cottage in the grounds of Kensington Palace in London, which became their first shared home between 2017 and 2019.

The Duke had lived alone at what royal aides call 'Nott Cott' since 2013 when he was 31, moving in from Clarence House following his brother Prince William's departure.

Prince Harry will speak at the Ontario Real Estate Association Power House event next month

Harry is described as a 'mental health advocate, environmentalist and military combat veteran'

Attendees of the conference were advised that King Charles III's 41-year-old son will 'bring a powerful message of service and leadership to the Power House stage'.

Tickets cost C$299 (163) for Orea members or C$499 (272) for non-members, with organisers boasting that the conference will be 'THE political event of the year'.

The audience will 'hear from influential leaders, political pundits, and powerful insiders on all things real estate policy, housing supply and the Canadian economy'.

Royal commentator Richard Fitzwilliams, former editor of The International Who's Who, told the Daily Mail that it was an unusual event for Harry to speak at.

He said: 'It seems ironic that Prince Harry is appearing at a real estate conference talking about 'service and leadership'. His service as a working royal lasted only 20 months once he married Meghan.

'He betrayed Queen Elizabeth II, whom he called his 'Commander-in-Chief', by trashing the monarchy in destructive interviews and in an ill-judged memoir.'

On 'leadership', Mr Fitzwilliams pointed out that the Charity Commission was critical of the way his Lesotho charity Sentebale was run when he was a patron.

He added: 'He is a member of the board of Africa Parks which has admitted abuses but he has remained silent about this.'

This is a reference to African Parks acknowledging that guards at one of its national parks in the Republic of Congo committed human rights abuses against Indigenous peoples who were displaced when the park was constructed.

Mr Fitzwilliams also said: 'Invictus is remarkable to be sure, but he otherwise seems to be drifting in Meghan's wake as she desperately attempts to be a Hollywood A-lister with a brand that sells.'

He told how Harry 'could undoubtedly make some money on the speakers' circuit, but it is surely rather aimless, like his brief appearances in Meghan's videos'.

Harry and Meghan previously lived at Frogmore Cottage on the Home Park Estate in Windsor

Harry and Meghan also lived at Nottingham Cottage at Kensington Palace in West London

He continued: 'it is ridiculous that he is appearing at a real estate power conference but will not, we are told, be talking about real estate.

'He lived in grace and favour homes as a member of the Royal Family. There is the Sussexes' home in Montecito and reportedly a property in Portugal. He certainly has no expertise on the subject.

'Harry looks at ease when he is having fun with the kids at, for example, the WellChild Awards. However the speakers' circuit is a refuge for the superannuated, who are usually past their prime - and if he does this regularly, many might think his best future is behind him.'

Other speakers at the conference will include local news editors, mayors and politicians including Ontario premier Doug Ford and the Green Party's Ontario leader Mike Schreiner.

The conference will run between 9am to 4.30pm. Harry is expected speak in person, but it is not known whether his wife Meghan Markle will join him.

Meghan has a close affinity with Toronto having lived there from 2011 to 2017 while filming TV legal drama Suits, in which she played paralegal Rachel Zane.

She and Harry spent time together in the city during the early stages of their relationship, before becoming engaged in 2017 and marrying in Windsor in 2018.

An Instagram post by the Buzz Conference, another real estate event in Canada which announced the Power House conference, said: 'The Headliner Keynote Speaker is Prince Harry, humanitarian, mental health advocate, environmentalist, and military combat veteran.

'His work is dedicated to creating positive and lasting change for communities and the planet, particularly in advancing conversations around resilience and healing.

'Now, he won't be speaking about Real Estate. Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, will bring a powerful message of service and leadership to the Power House stage. 'Trust us, you're not going to want to miss this one!''

The event will take place at the Hilton hotel in Toronto on December 1 between 9am to 4.30pm

Prince Harry met veterans during his trip in Toronto earlier this month, pictured on November 7

The Orea website added: 'This is your chance to hear from influential leaders, political pundits, and powerful insiders on all things real estate policy, housing supply and the Canadian economy.

'Orea's Power House conference is THE political event of the year and you don't want to miss it.'

It comes after Harry visited Toronto earlier this month where he took part in events ahead of Remembrance Day, including spending time with Canadian soldiers.

He spent two days in Toronto meeting veterans, members of the armed forces community and military charities to mark the 'Remembrancetide' period which spans the two-week period leading up to Remembrance Sunday.

Speaking about Toronto, Harry told a dinner in the city: 'You provided a wife for me and you hosted the Invictus Games in 2017, touchstones in my life both professionally and personally.'

The trip clashed with Harry's brother Prince William's Earthshot Prize awards ceremony during his major tour to Brazil.

Harry denied deliberately trying to overshadow William's with his own visit - but his version of events about the diary clash was later disputed by Palace staff.

The Duke had claimed the royal household was informed in advance, 'as a courtesy', that he was going to Toronto when his brother was in Rio de Janeiro.

But multiple sources then insisted his announcement caught royal aides 'by surprise', and had also ruffled feathers.
A family of four who were thought to have died from food poisoning during a trip to Turkey were 'most likely' killed by a chemical agent in their hotel, investigators have said.

The family had become violently sick at their hotel in Istanbul last Wednesday, just two days after travelling there from Hamburg, Germany.

It was initially thought that the family had died following a deadly bout of food poisoning after they had set out for the Besiktas district in the north-east of the city to sample local foods on November 12.

But a preliminary report from the Turkish forensic institute has revealed that the deaths of father Servet, 38, mother Cigdem Bocek, 27, and their two children Masal, three, and Kadir, six, were most likely caused by chemical poisoning at the hotel, state broadcaster TRT reported.

The forensic institute is looking into reports of poisoning from chemicals used to combat pests in the Turkish hotel and samples are now being analysed, according to the news channel.

Food poisoning has not been completely ruled out as the potential killer, but the likelihood is currently considered to be low.

The German family were transported to hospital on November 12 after they had ventured out to try the popular street snack midye - a dish of stuffed mussels served with lemon.

They later ordered a mix of dishes at a local restaurant, including kokorec, made from calf intestines, and tavuk tantuni, a type of chicken wrap.

Cigdem Bocek, her husband Servet and children Kadir, six, and Masal, three, fell violently ill at their hotel in Istanbul on November 12, just two days after travelling from Hamburg, Germany

The family then treated themselves to Turkish delights from a shop in the Fatih area before returning to their hotel.

But soon after, the children started suffering from extreme nausea and vomiting. On the way to hospital, Bocek and Servet started showing the same symptoms.

The taxi driver who took them has since revealed that they seemed 'in a panic' on their way to hospital.

'I tried to talk to the father. When I asked him what was happening, he replied: "We ate and drank something and it probably affected us". He said to me: "Please, take us to the nearest hospital".'

He added that the young girl had been vomiting continuously, and that the mother appeared 'semi-conscious' during the ride.

Tragically, the two children died on the Wednesday, Bocek lost her life on Friday, and Servet died on Monday following the sickness.

The grandfather of the children has demanded answers and questioned whether others have fallen ill.

The family all complained of nausea, vomiting and dizziness and following treatment at two different medical facilities, the parents and children were discharged, according to Bild

Another two tourists staying at the same hotel were hospitalised on Saturday after displaying symptoms of nausea and vomiting, according to BirGun newspaper.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on Monday: 'The investigation is currently being carried out comprehensively. It will be revealed what caused the deaths.'

Following investigations, 11 suspects have now been arrested, and according to the Anadolu news agency, arrest warrants were issued for four of them on Monday evening.

These included sweet vendors, stuffed mussels seller, a kokorec vendor and a cafe owner.
Britain was today monitoring the Russian spy ship Yantar on the edge of UK waters, which has directed lasers at pilots of RAF surveillance aircraft.

Defence Secretary John Healey said Britain 'is ready' to respond if the ship heads south, in a stern warning to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

The vessel designed for gathering intelligence is loitering off the northern coast of Scotland, having entered wider UK waters over the last few weeks.

It comes in the same week that MPs, peers and parliamentary staff were warned by MI5 over suspected Chinese espionage via recruitment head-hunters.

The security service believes China is attempting to 'recruit and cultivate' people with access to sensitive information about Parliament and the UK Government.

Now you can vote in the Daily Mail's latest poll for which country you feel is a bigger threat to the UK  China or Russia?

In yesterday's poll, Mail readers were asked: 'Are Labour right to offer asylum seekers more than 3,000 to leave Britain?' Out of more than 14,000 votes, 91 per cent of you said 'no' and 9 per cent said 'yes'.
French police are believed to be planning to use 30-metre nets to snare migrant boats in the Channel - despite warnings that the tactic is so dangerous it could kill people.

The drastic new method comes after more than 39,000 migrants reached Britain this year in flimsy dinghies, piling pressure on Paris to stop departures from its northern beaches.

President Emmanuel Macron's government announced plans over the summer to change maritime rules to allow officers to intercept vessels at sea. But the plan was delayed amid fears the manoeuvres could end in tragedy.

It has now emerged that specialist teams from France's maritime gendarmerie have already been issued with so-called 'arresting nets', which expand across the water to clog propellers and force boats to stop.

A source said the nets could be used in the 'fight against illegal immigration', alongside operations targeting drug trafficking gangs.

According to reports in Le Monde and investigative outlet Lighthouse, between five and six patrol teams are expected to operate along the coastline, each backed by a French Navy vessel in case assistance is needed.

Training documents from one supplier claim the devices can 'neutralise' several boats at once, either by blocking their engines or forcing them to change direction.

Another commercial document for the same company boasts that the nets can be used to 'capture and immobilise high-speed vessels'.

French police are preparing to use 30-metre nets to snare migrant boats in the Channel - despite warning the tactic is so dangerous it could leave people dead. Pictured: French police vessel passes lifejackets to migrants on a dinghy as they cross the English Channel on August 25, 2025

The drastic new method comes as more than 39,000 migrants have reached Britain this year in flimsy dinghies, piling pressure on Paris to stop departures from its northern beaches. Pictured: French police officers inspect a deflated small boat discarded by people thought to be migrants on the beach in Gravelines

Pictured: French Police enter the water to try and stop migrants boarding small boats that had come to collect them from further down the coastline on June 13, 2025 in Gravelines, France

But French coastguard official Remi Vandeplanque, from the Solidaires Douanes union, warned the tactic would spark panic on overcrowded dinghies and almost certainly lead to fatalities.

'There are usually at least 50 people on board, sometimes more. Whatever you do, you will create panic or distress, and one day there will be a disaster,' he said, adding, 'there is no way to do it safely'.

Most deaths in the Channel now occur close to the French shoreline, often due to drowning or suffocation aboard dangerously packed vessels.

Twenty-six people have died attempting the crossing so far this year, according to French data.

In a letter sent on September 30, the Solidaires Douanes union branded the interception plans 'inhumane' and 'absurd', warning they risked triggering shipwrecks for which officers could face criminal prosecution.

Sources within the French Ministry of the Interior admit gendarmes are deeply uneasy.

One said police 'want guarantees' about legal protection, while another insisted 'no magistrate will agree to give the police carte blanche.'

During a meeting of senior maritime officials on November 10, authorities agreed that interceptions could only be carried out if officers first prove the boat is not a leisure or fishing vessel and appears to be heading to collect migrants.

Even then, deaths could still lead to prosecutions.

The controversy comes as France faces mounting pressure from the UK to take tougher action on small boats.

British funding for Channel security is due to be renegotiated in March - and London is said to be demanding stronger enforcement at sea before releasing more cash.

French officials say so-called 'taxi boats' will be the first to be targeted. These vessels run along the coast, stopping at multiple points to pick up migrants who wade into the surf to board, avoiding police patrols on the beaches.

More than 56 per cent of arrivals so far in 2025 travelled on such boats, according to French data.
A Jordanian migrant today denied sexually assaulting a girl and three women on the London Underground and was granted bail ahead of his trial in over a year's time.

Hamza Alotaibi allegedly assaulted the victims within the space of a month  and is first accused of groping a woman at Paddington station on January 27.

The 27-year-old is said to have sexually assaulted a 12-year-old girl on the District Line between St James's Park and Acton Town stations two days later.

A week later, on February 4, he allegedly assaulted a woman on the Elizabeth line near Whitechapel station and another female passenger on February 13 on the same line between Liverpool Street and Canary Wharf.

Alotaibi was living in taxpayer-funded Home Office accommodation in London at the time but has now been moved to similar accommodation in Hartlepool.

Bearded Alotaibi appeared at Inner London Crown Court today wearing a black jacket over a grey jumper and light blue jeans.

Hamza Alotaibi (pictured) denied sexually assaulting four girls on the London Underground

Alotaibi is first accused of groping a woman at Paddington station (file photo) in January

Assisted by an Arabic interpreter, he denied four counts of sexual assault on a female.

Judge Matthew Boyle told him: 'You have entered not guilty pleas to these sexual assault allegations. I have set a trial date which unfortunately will not come around until January 4, 2027.'

The judge warned Alotaibi that he must provide a defence statement ahead of his trial.

Alotaibi was bailed on condition he does not use the rail network except for legal and medical appointments. He can only travel on the Underground with an Oyster card.
Massachusetts homeowners are fuming over a new upkeep law that threatens them with fines of up to $200 for using gas-powered leaf blowers, even on their own property.

Residents in Arlington are expressing outrage as the town prepares to impose fines of up to $200 on homeowners for using a common yard tool that has been targeted under a sweeping new 'upkeep' and noise-control law.

The bylaw was approved at Town Meeting and began rolling out in stages in 2023.

It reached a major milestone this spring when commercial landscapers were permanently banned from using gas blowers as of March 15, 2025.

Residents still have a few months before the rules tighten further. Beginning March 15, 2026, homeowners will also be prohibited from using gas-powered blowers.

Until then, residents may use gas-powered blowers only during two seasonal windows, March 15 to May 31 and September 15 to December 30, and only during limited hours.

Electric blowers remain legal year-round but may be used only from 7.30am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 4pm on weekends and holidays.

Enforcement is already under way. First-time offenders receive a written warning, followed by a $100 fine and then $200 for every subsequent violation.

Gas-powered leaf blowers, once a yardwork staple, are now at the center of Arlingtons sweeping ban

The new law threatens Arlington residents with fines of up to $200 for using gas-powered leaf blowers on their own property

The penalties apply to both the homeowner and the landscaper, meaning residents can be fined for violations committed by a hired crew on their property.

Complaints must be filed with the town's Health Department and include the operator's name, the location and time of the incident and the complainant's signature.

Electric blowers are allowed only from 7.30am to 6pm on weekdays and 8am to 4pm on weekends and holidays.

Arlington's move mirrors a growing national trend to phase out gas-powered lawn equipment.

The controversy extends far beyond Arlington, with online debates underscoring how polarizing the rule has become.

One Reddit user wrote: 'This can't happen fast enough. Not only is it way better for the environment, but electric ones are so much quieter! I am so annoyed by the sound of gas-powered lawn equipment by the end of the summer.'

Another chimed in: 'Annoyed well before the end of summer. People use them at all hours too, just inconsiderate all around.'

'I have wished for this for decades,' said another.

Others mocked the obsession with leaf blowers. 'Leafblower people act like the 2nd Amendment applies to them. You can take them from their cold, dead hands,' one commenter joked, while another added: 'God forbid they remembered the existence of brooms and rakes.'

But not everyone is on board with the switch. 'I'll never go full electric because it's a waste for where I live,' one user argued.

'The battery doesn't last long and the time wasted makes me never want to use one again.' Another noted the practical challenges for crews: 'Workers can't use batteries all day unless they get like 20 of them.'

Reddit users across the nation have sparked fury over the new rule as online debates reveal just how divisive the issue has become

According to USA TODAY, the fight over leaf blowers has intensified as environmental groups, public-health advocates, and lawmakers push to eliminate the noisy, pollutive machines that have been in use since the early 1970s.

Major regions have already enacted bans. Washington, D.C., now fines companies or individuals up to $500 per offense under its Leaf Blower Regulation Amendment Act.

Environmental groups say the switch is essential: 'Transitioning to battery-powered landscaping equipment is a more sustainable alternative that would move us closer to meeting climate action goals and reduce harmful health effects,' one California-based group told USA TODAY.

Even major retailers are signaling the end of gas-powered tools. According to the Public Interest Research Group, giants like Home Depot and Lowe's have already reduced their inventory of gas-powered lawn equipment in favor of electric models.

California passed AB1346, banning the sale of gas-powered blowers and weed whackers as of July 1, 2024.

Dozens of cities, from San Diego to Denver to Montclair, New Jersey, have adopted similar restrictions.

The restrictions on gas-powered tools reflect a growing national push for quieter, cleaner alternatives

Homeowners and landscapers alike are adjusting to new restrictions on yard maintenance equipment

However, Texas and Florida have passed laws blocking cities from issuing outright bans, arguing the rules unfairly target landscapers and undermine the oil and gas industry.

Some states and cities are offering financial incentives to accelerate the shift to electric gear. Dallas, Austin, and Louisville are offering rebates, as are states such as Indiana, Massachusetts, Nebraska, and Wyoming.
Tunis, Nov. 18  The Major Projects Committee, which met on Tuesday at El Kasbah, chaired by Prime Minister Sarra Zaafrani Zenzri, approved the immediate launch of procedures for the reconstruction of the main building of Hedi Chaker University Hospital in Sfax, the development of Bir Ali Ben Khalifa Hospital in Sfax Governorate and the acceleration of works at the Class B Regional Hospital in Thala, Kasserine Governorate.

The committee, in its sixth meeting, also decided to include the project for the establishment of a plastic bag manufacturing and printing unit, along with a fertiliser packaging unit in Mezzouna, Sidi Bouzid Governorate, in the list of major projects, according to a statement issued by the Prime Ministry.

Key components of the project to reopen the industrial complex in Mezzouna include a unit for producing and printing multi-size plastic bags and a fertiliser packaging unit.

This project will allow the Mezzouna complex to resume its original activity of locally producing plastic bags instead of importing them, thereby supporting the local industrial fabric by reducing supply times and import volumes, in line with the state's strategy to protect the national economy and direct production to meet the needs of several Tunisian industrial enterprises.

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It will also contribute to reviving economic activity in Mezzouna and creating sustainable development projects capable of generating long-term employment opportunities for young people in Mezzouna and surrounding areas.

On this occasion, the Prime Minister underscored the importance of accelerating the implementation of all public projects across the country and completing them within the specified deadlines, considering them a key pillar for achieving balanced comprehensive development, promoting investment, economic growth, and employment, in line with the vision of President Kais Saied.

Zenzri stressed, at the end of the meeting's work, the need to overcome all challenges and difficulties and to intensify efforts at both central and regional levels by all officials in ministries, public structures, and governorates to accelerate the execution of all public projects, ensuring continuous field monitoring. This is to ensure that projects are completed on time and with the required quality, meeting the legitimate expectations of Tunisians throughout the country.

Health Minister Mustapha Ferjani presented a report on the projects to rebuild the main building of Hedi Chaker University Hospital in Sfax, develop Bir Ali Ben Khalifa Hospital in the Sfax Governorate, and complete the Class B Regional Hospital in Thala, Kasserine Governorate.

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Additionally, Minister of Industry, Mines, and Energy, Fatma Thabet Chiboub, presented a report on the project to reopen the Mezzouna industrial complex in Sidi Bouzid Governorate.
A police officer kept a businessman in a jail cell despite knowing he was innocent because he 'disliked' him, a court has heard.

PC James Martin, 36, of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, allegedly knew that private security boss Benjamin Churchill had done nothing wrong but allowed him to spend more time locked up in custody.

Mr Churchill was arrested in front of his seven-year-old son after a colleague of PC Martin made a prank call pretending to be him and called Martin a 'p***k'.

Prosecutors allege PC Martin committed misconduct because he did not speak up once he discovered the prank so that Mr Churchill spent longer in custody.

He then lied about his knowledge of Mr Churchill's innocence, it was heard.

Serving officer PC Martin is on trial accused of misconduct in a public office, which he denies.

Salisbury Crown Court, in Wiltshire, heard that PC Martin 'disliked Mr Churchill and would not have minded if he had stayed in custody longer'.

The Hampshire Constabulary officer had 'issues' with bouncer and security provider Mr Churchill for some time preceding the incident on December 30, 2022 and suspected him of being involved in the illegal drugs trade, jurors were told.

PC James Martin, 36, of Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, is accused of misconduct in public office after allegedly allowing an innocent man to spend more time in custody

PC Martin, a specialist dog handler in Newport on the Isle of Wight, also believed that Mr Churchill would use excessive force on nightclub clients.

Following a 'professional disagreement' on December 10, Mr Churchill reported PC Martin for intimidating behaviour.

Subsequently PC Martin sent an email to numerous colleagues saying that he was suspicious of the bouncer.

He told them of his suspicions of Mr Churchill's involvement with drugs, and said that they should follow up on any reports of him using excessive force.

Late on December 30, friend and colleague PC Benjamin Magee, who had received the email, decided to prank call the officer by pretending to be Mr Churchill.

He told PC Martin that he'd 'heard he'd been chatting about him' and called him a 'p***k'.

PC Martin was apparently unaware that this was a joke and immediately reported the call to senior officers as a threat, the court heard.

He also changed his phone number the next day because he believed that Mr Churchill had his contact details.

Bouncer Benjamin Churchill spent around an hour and 40 minutes in police custody for a phone call he did not make

The day after the call was made, Mr Churchill was arrested in front of his seven-year-old son while they were playing draughts.

He was arrested for malicious communication and kept in custody for an hour and 40 minutes.

However, just minutes after the arrest PC Olivia Peachey, who witnessed the prank call, heard that PC Martin had taken it seriously and messaged him to tell him it was just a prank.

PC Martin replied: 'You're joking. Benjamin Churchill has just been nicked.'

He went on to say that he was 'beyond angry' and called PC Magee a 'f***ing p***k', before saying that he couldn't talk because he was in the police station and had to go.

But, prosecutors allege that minutes after these messages, PC Martin gave a witness statement about the incident - and didn't mention that it was a prank at all.

It is claimed he signed the statement confirming that everything he said was true to the best of his knowledge, despite knowing at that point it was not Mr Churchill who had made the call.

This happened at the start of Mr Churchill's custody, which would have been much shorter had PC Martin come clean, prosecutors say.

PC Peachey, now a Sergeant, contacted PC Magee at the same time as PC Martin to alert him to the incident.

Mr Churchill was only released after PC Magee went to the station himself to confess that this was the result of a prank that went 'horribly wrong'.

Mr Churchill told the court that it was 'very scary' for his son to see him arrested, and his time in custody felt like 'forever'.

PC Magee was ordered to issue a full and public apology to Mr Churchill after a misconduct hearing last year.

Prosecuting, Stephanie Painter said: 'PC Martin received a call in the early hours of 30 December 2022.

'It was a threatening call he believed was from Mr Benjamin Churchill but was in fact a prank call from PC Magee which he was unaware of.

'He immediately reported it. The next day at 11:53am, Mr Churchill was brought to the police station into custody.'

She continued: 'PC Martin found out at 12:49 that it was a prank call. He didn't tell the investigating officer that he knew.

'That meant Mr Churchill stayed in custody until 13:43 when PC Magee told police it was him.

'If PC Martin had informed the officer Mr Churchill would have been released from custody. Instead he chose not to tell the police at the time.

'PC Martin disliked Mr Churchill and would not have minded if he had stayed in custody longer.'

The trial continues.
A Mormon mom of 11 claims her polygamist prophet husband neglected her in favor of his four other wives and demanded she cough up monthly payments to stay on the very same compound she helped develop.

Shirlyn Watson, 71, has slapped her former husband David Watson, 73, with a lawsuit claiming she is entitled to a portion of their shared property in Manti, Utah.

The two wed in January 1973 in a plural marriage conducted through the Apostolic United Brethren, which David would later lead as their prophet.

According to ABC4, David was only legally married to one woman due to ongoing restrictions surrounding polygamy but had five wives.

Shirlyn founded her own business, Shirlyn's Natural Foods, in 1989 with the store expanding to three separate locations across Salt Lake County.

According to the suit, Shirlyn handed over all of her earnings from her business from the year 2000 onwards 'to David Watson or directly to provide for the family home'.

In 2016, Shirlyn said she had moved to Manti, Utah, with David and his three other wives - each of whom occupied a separate home on the property.

According to her, she was promised an equal interest in the property along with David's other wives.

Shirlyn and her ex-husband David ended their relationship of 47 years in 2019 after having 11 children together

David, right, was only legally married to one woman due to ongoing restrictions surrounding polygamy but had five wives

She told the outlet: 'He promised that he was going to put us on a family trust and that we'd all be taken care of.'

Documents in the suit indicate that she continued to invest into the property, putting around $36,000 into the home.

After leaving and then coming back to David, Shirlyn officially split from her husband of 47 years in August 2019.

In May 2021, David issued Shirlyn and his remaining wives with messages demanding $260 each month to live on the property.

The suit said: 'Shirlyn Watson refused to pay because she had an ownership interest in the property based on her previous investments.'

She told the outlet: 'He won't put my name on the title because I left him. He doesn't think I have rights to anything.'

Shirlyn also claimed that in February 2020, David started neglecting her and their disabled son, Robert, who has since died.

The lawsuit claimed that David 'left her there with their disabled son', while he spent his time with his two other wives.

According to Shirlyn's lawsuit, she invested some $37,000 in her portion of the compound in Manti, Utah, seen here

Shirlyn and her son Robert are seen here in an image shared to her Facebook profile

David's legal team filed a response denying several allegations including claims that he promised anyone any interest in the property

After traveling to California for Robert's celebration of life in 2023, she returned home to Utah to find that David had changed the locks, something he denies doing.

The suit said that Shirlyn's children asked their father to let her back into the home, to which he 'reluctantly agreed'.

Shirlyn said that he continues to keep her name off the agreement between himself and his other wives, entitling them to a percentage of the home.

'I'm asking for my home, I've made this my home', she told the outlet.

'Somebody needs to take a stand. I'm prepared to take that stand. I'm willing to fight him,' added Shirlyn, who formally filed suit earlier this month seeking 25 percent of the property.

On her relationship with David, she said: 'Polygamy really worked for me. I know that thats really hard for people to accept. It was presented to me, and it felt right.

'We had a lot of good times together', adding that David 'wouldn't have what he has without me'.

Shirlyn's children have all since abandoned the religion, and she also rarely attends AUB meetings due to ill health.

She added: 'He started to lose me years ago. If something came up with "the favorite wife" he would go take care of her first.'

After leaving and returning several times, Shirlyn finally made the decision to leave him for good in August 2019.

David's legal team has since filed a response denying several allegations, including claims that he promised anyone any interest in the property, saying he owns it 100 percent.

The Daily Mail has contacted Shirlyn and David for comment.
A former Scotland Yard officer unmasked as one of Britains worst ever rapists has been convicted of sexually assaulting a schoolgirl when he was a teenager and raping a former partner.

Predatory and controlling David Carrick, 50, attacked the 12-year-old girl over two years while he was aged between 14 and 16.

And he was a serving police officer when he repeatedly raped the woman between December 2014 and April 2015 then repeatedly forced her to perform sex acts on him in 2019.

In 2023, Carrick was jailed for 30 years after admitting 85 rapes and serious assaults against a dozen women.

But the attacks on the schoolgirl are the first relating to a child.

He also confessed to the attacks on the girl in a letter that was recovered 30 years later in his medical records which could have prevented him from joining the police had it come to light sooner.

And the convictions relating to the woman represent one of the most striking missed opportunities to unmask Carrick, given officers attended a domestic violence call at his home after he dragged her down the stairs by her hair.

Both victims came forward after Carrick admitted raping and sexually assaulting a dozen women.

David Carrick, 50, is a former Metropolitan Police officer who had previously admitted a large number of sexual offences against 12 women committed over a 17-year period

His trial at the Old Bailey heard he would hold his hand over the schoolgirls mouth to stop her screaming as he abused her  sometimes twice a week - over an 18-month period.

On one occasion he is said to have trapped her between a chair and a sofa to abuse her.

The girl told her mother that Carrick was abusing her when she was 14 and he admitted the attacks in a letter that was later recovered from his medical records. I know how (the girl) must feel.

'That's why I stopped and promised I would never go near her again and I have kept that promise and I always will, he wrote at the time.

Sorry to you and especially sorry to (the girl) but she does not have to worry ever again. Please do not try to talk about it.

The victim told Carrick's trial: 'When I heard he was a Metropolitan Police officer, the words I have always used were: "God help anyone with him with a warrant card".'

More than 20 years later he met the woman via a dating app then pinned her down when she asked him to stop having sex, telling her you are not going anywhere, Tom Little KC, prosecuting, told jurors.

He then rolled over and apologized and hugged her. She was crying. The defendant then became upset and started crying. They did not talk about it, and they went to sleep.

The victim was in pain for six weeks afterwards and felt she could not tell anyone what had happened, Mr Little said.

Given that he was a Met Police officer it may be obvious and understandable that she took the view that at that point she would not be believed.

An excerpt of the letter in which Carrick made a partial confession to abusing the schoolgirl

Carrick has been convicted of abusing a 12-year-old girl more than 35 years ago, and raping a woman between 2014 and 2015 - on top of existing offences against 12 other women

The toxic relationship between the couple bore stark similarities with others during which Carrick had already admitted rape and sustained abuse, Mr Little said.

The relationship came to an end after a fight spilled out onto the street in September 2019 when the woman refused to get naked and wait in Carricks bed.

They were on the stairs, he grabbed her hair and tried to pull her down the stairs, she fought back trying to get him off, Mr Little said.

At one stage she was holding onto the banister, which got broken. The neighbours came out and separated them and then police arrived.

Hertfordshire Police answered the call to Carricks home in Stevenage and referred the report to Carricks force  but he was given no misconduct case to answer and the incident was not properly investigated.

The officer was simply given words of advice in relation to informing his chain of command about off duty incidents.

A court sketch of David Carrick during his trial

He denied five counts of sexual assault relating to the girl in 1989 and 1990 and two charges of rape, one of sexual assault and coercive and controlling behaviour towards the woman between 2014 and 2019

This episode was one of nine occasions since 2000 that Carrick was reported to the police.

Despite this, he maintained a job in the parliamentary protection unit of Britains biggest police force and abused his position to coerce his terrified victims in a campaign of sexual abuse.

The scandal rocked British policing and led to the Met urgently probing more than 1,000 of its own officers who had faced complaints of domestic abuse or sexual offending over the past decade.

Carrick declined to give evidence in his trial but when he was interviewed in November 2023 said the schoolgirl was a liar and claimed that no sexual abuse occurred.

And he insisted that all sexual activity with the woman was consensual.

He was convicted of five counts of sexual assault relating to the girl in 1989 and 1990 and two charges of rape, one of sexual assault and coercive and controlling behaviour towards the woman between 2014 and 2019.

Carrick bowed his head but showed no emotion as the jury forewoman delivered the verdicts.

Carrick joined the Met in 2001 despite the fact that he had been investigated the previous year on suspicion of breaking into an ex-partner's home and stealing her underwear.

The first rape he committed as a police officer for which he was later convicted took place in 2003.
Incredible footage shows a frigate sinking after a NATO submarine fired at it with a torpedo during a military exercise in the North Sea.

According to a social media post by the NATO Allied Joint Force Command Norfolk, the exercise  known as Aegir 25  was carried out to 'verify and demonstrate the striking power that the weapon and submarine represent'.

Click the video above to watch the moment in full.
A Chicago mother of two has spoken out after shocking video of her family being violently attacked by a group of children outside a school shocked the nation.

Corshawnda Hatter, 33, says she has been left traumatized by the ordeal, in which she and her son, nine, were also followed and threatened as she tried to protect him from bullies.

'I can still hear the cries of my kids saying: "Mommy, help me. I'm hurt, I'm scared",' Hatter wrote in a post to social media after the incident near Orville T Bright Elementary School.

'I feel like I failed my kids but also didn't wanna put my hands on a minor,' she added.

After mocking her appearance the children backed Hatter into a fence and assaulted her with punches and slaps.

They then dragged the mother to the ground and continued with the beatings, which initially left her in a critical condition.

As Hatter was stomped on, the kids also violently pulled down her son and started to hit him too.

Hatter, who suffers from sickle cell anemia, a condition said that can cause chronic pain and fatigue, said she was 'so drained and emotional' after watching her son get slammed to the ground.

Corshawnda Hatter, 33, wrote that she could still 'hear the cries' of her kids pleading for help as they were violently attacked by a group of schoolchildren on Monday

The video showed Hatter's son, nine, being dragged to the ground by the bullies. The mother also said one of the attackers had gone after her daughter, six, and pulled her hair

Hatter claimed one of the attackers was a 12-year-old boy who also targeted her daughter, six, and pulled her hair.

The attack happened Monday at around 3pm in the 10600 block of South Bensley Avenue.

The family are being relocated to a different home to protect them after the assault, ABC7 reported.

Chicago mayor Brandon Johnson had said that he was working with the Chicago Housing Authority to 'support the family.'

He also added that he was 'deeply disturbed' to see the video of the assault.

Johnson said: 'That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence.'

On Tuesday night Hatter said her left leg had got 'worse after all those kids jumped me.'

Hatter said Tuesday that the group of kids was 'literally waiting the way we walk home' to assault her and her children

The vicious attack happened Monday around 3pm in the 10600 block of South Bensley Avenue in the Far South Side of Chicago and was captured on video

The mother-of-two's family is reportedly being moved to a different, safer home to protect them from further attacks

She and her son were initially taken to Trinity Hospital in a critical condition after the assault.

The shocking footage showed how the schoolchildren appearing to follow the victims while cussing and yelling at them before turning violent.

'No mother should be that helpless and be targeted by children inside of her own community,' Illinois state senator Willie Preston said to NBC Chicago.

He called for a meeting with school officials.

Standing outside the school Tuesday, Hatter said: 'They were literally waiting the way we walk home just to jump all of us.'

Dozens of supporters backed the mother-of-two as she took her claims public.

The son's father, Grant Hatter, said 'something' needed to be done 'to the kids that jumped on them.'

'Some type of justice [is needed],' he told ABC7.

No arrests have yet been made.

The Daily Mail reached out to Corshawnda Hatter, the Chicago Police Department and Orville T Bright School for further comment.
Keir Starmer's woes deepened today as a rebel MP offered to give up his seat for potential rival Andy Burnham.

Left-winger Clive Lewis said he does not believe the Prime Minister can recover from dire polls, with a disastrous Budget and local elections looming.

Sir Keir's allies have been arguing there is no viable successor, with growing numbers of critics unable to unite around an alternative candidate.

There are claims that more than 80 MPs are ready to support an effort to oust the PM - which would meet the threshold for triggering a contest.

Some ministers are now said to regard Sir Keir being replaced as 'inevitable'.

Manchester Mayor Mr Burnham is still often touted as a successor, despite a humiliating implosion at a Labour conference after he hinted at making a run.

Keir Starmer's woes deepened today as a rebel MP offered to give up his seat for potential rival Andy Burnham

Left-winger Clive Lewis said he does not believe the PM can recover from dire polls, with a disastrous Budget and local elections looming

Appearing on the BBC's Politics Live today, Mr Lewis confirmed he had spoken to Mr Burnham - but refused to say whether he knew he was 'up for' challenging.

Pressed whether he would give up his own Norwich South constituency so Mr Burnham could run, Mr Lewis said: 'It's a question I've asked myself... I'd have to consult with my wife... but if I'm going to sit here and say, country before party, party before personal ambition, then yes I have to say yes don't I.'

Pressed that he was saying he would give up his seat for Mr Burnham, the Labour MP replied: 'I would.'

Mr Lewis is the only MP so far to say publicly that Sir Keir should go.

He later tried to cool the row by suggesting his answer was 'theoretical'. 'A hypothetical question was put to me, and my answer was consistent with what I've been saying, that I am serious about putting country before party,' he told Sky News.

The sense of turmoil at the heart of Government has been growing after an extraordinary pre-emptive strike against the PM's Cabinet rivals backfired.

The premier was left defending his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney when Health Secretary Wes Streeting publicly attacked No10's 'toxic culture' and 'self-destruction'.

It then emerged that Sir Keir and Chancellor Rachel Reeves had performed a shambolic U-turn on plans to increase income tax at the Budget, despite weeks of blatant hints.

Manchester Mayor Mr Burnham is still often touted as a successor, despite a humiliating implosion at a Labour conference after he hinted at making a run

A YouGov poll has found 23 per cent of Labour supporters think the party leader should quit now and elect someone else.

A further 22 per cent believe he should give up his role at some point before the next election.

Only a third, 34 per cent, said he should lead the Labour Party into the contest.

Sir Keir read the riot act to his Cabinet yesterday, warning there must be no more 'distractions' - even though it had been his allies who appeared to be briefing against ministers.

At the weekly meeting, Sir Keir warned that the public were 'rightly impatient' with the Government 'talking about ourselves' rather than working together.

He also made another attempt to shore up his position by telling the Mirror in an interview that he would still be in charge at the next election.

At PMQs this lunchtime, Sir Keir dodged Kemi Badenoch's question pushing him on whether there would be a freeze on tax thresholds in the Budget.

'This is the first Budget to unravel before it's even been delivered,' the Tory leader said.

'The Chancellor's cluelessness, I'm afraid, is damaging the economy now.

The premier was left defending his chief of staff Morgan McSweeney (pictured) when Health Secretary Wes Streeting publicly attacked No10's 'toxic culture' and 'self-destruction'

Mr Streeting called for those behind briefings against him to be sacked - but Sir Keir said he had been assured nobody in No10 was responsible

'The Prime Minister needs to end this shambles. So, can he confirm today that he won't break another promise by freezing income tax thresholds?'

Sir Keir said: 'The Budget is one week today and we will lay out our plans.

'I've said what we will do in terms of protecting the NHS and public services.

'What we won't do is inflict austerity on the country as they did. What we won't do is inflict a borrowing spree like Liz Truss did.'

Mrs Badenoch earlier asked why the Government had floated income tax rate increases only to U-turn.

She said: 'Can the Prime Minister tell us why his Government is the first Government in history to float increasing income tax rates only to then U-turn on it all after the actual Budget?'

Sir Keir said the Budget was next week and that inflation was down.
A California man missing for months likely suffered a medical emergency then was dragged off by a wild animal, investigators have announced.

Gil Clark, 78, was reported missing on August 14, according to the Sierra County Sheriff's Office.

He was last seen by a friend who dropped him off in Downieville, about four miles from the town of Goodyears Bar, where he lived, KTLA reported.

Investigators launched a 'thorough search' covering the four-mile stretch of highway that Clark was known to frequently walk, as well as his residence and the wooded terrain behind his home.

'During these efforts, searchers noted significant bear activity, and neighbors reported recent mountain lion activity in the vicinity,' the sheriff's office said.

Deputies continued to search for Clark, following up on tips and conducting interviews.

On November 14 deputies expanded on the original search areas and made a grim discovery.

'During this effort, clothing and personal items belonging to Mr Clark were located,' police said.

Investigators believe missing man Gil Clark (pictured), 78, likely suffered a medical emergency, then was dragged off by a wild animal

Clark was last seen by a friend who dropped him off in Downieville (pictured), about four miles from the town of Goodyears Bar (pictured), where he lived on August 14

Investigators brought out four cadaver dogs and continued their search, but no further evidence was found.

'Based on the investigation and personal items recovered, it is believed Mr Clark likely suffered a medical emergency near his home that incapacitated him or resulted in his death,' the sheriff's office said.

'Evidence further indicates he was likely dragged from the area by a bear or mountain lion.'

The sheriff's office said the case is still open and deputies will continue to investigate all leads.

Cold Rush, a cafe that said Clark was a regular customer, released a statement expressing sadness over the news.

'This is not the news any of us wanted. We are holding his family, especially the daughter he loved so openly, in our thoughts,' the cafe said.

'Gil walked the long highway stretch with a backpack and a stubborn independence. Many of us worried, even as we admired him.'

The cafe described Clark as a 'part of the living fabric' of the community and said he adored his daughter.

Investigators noted significant bear and mountain lion activity in the area where Clark (pictured) was last seen

Investigators launched a 'thorough search' covering the four-mile stretch of highway that Clark was known to frequently walk (pictured)

'Gil was a part of Cold Rush Cafe's rhythm. Several mornings a week, you'd find him here, warming up with coffee, chatting with staff, or gathering small items,' Cold Rush said.

'He was the show-and-tell guy, sharing a story, a photo, or a memory over his guitar. He adored his daughter, speaking of her with such pride that the whole cafe would warm up.

'When kindness moved him, he handed out thank-you cards that sweetly poured out his gratitude.'
An ex-Boston cop who claimed she was unfairly fired after her co-workers made raunchy remarks about her sex life was awarded $1 million in lawsuit damages.

But the jury was not convinced the harassment had anything to do with her being booted - and ruled that she was simply bad at her job.

Enxhi Qirici, 32, was fired from the Boston Police Department (BPD) in 2019 after allegedly flying off the handle and lashing out at other officers on two separate occasions, according to the department.

But Qirici sued the BPD in 2021, alleging that her termination was an act of retaliation and that she experienced unrelenting sexual harassment and discrimination on the job, according to the complaint filed in the US District Court of Massachusetts.

On Tuesday, the jury concluded that while Qirici did experience a hostile work environment, it was unrelated to her firing, according to The Boston Globe.

Within her first month on the job, Qirici, who is white and originally from Albania, started dating a fellow police officer, Eliot Telisnor, who is black.

Once news of their relationship spread through the department, Qirici said she was hit with a slew of crude jokes and jabs about her sex life.

Her co-workers had even said they wanted to sleep with her, according to the complaint.

Enxhi Qirici has become a lawyer since being fired from the Boston Police Department

Pictured: A Boston Police Department vehicle (stock image)

Qirici claimed that she was targeted because she was dating a black man, and that leadership allowed for 'scurrilous, sexist and racist remarks' to be made against her, the filing states.

'This case is about fairness and equality,' Qirici's lawyer, Ilir Kavaja, said in court, as per The Boston Globe.

Amid uncomfortable interactions, Qirici - who was still in her one-year probationary period, which applies to all new officers - was involved in two incidents that ultimately led to her termination.

The first was in July 2018, when she stopped by a construction detail to ask Telisnor a question about filling out a report.

But the situation took a dramatic turn when she started screaming at a Northeastern University police officer who confronted her about illegally parking her cruiser multiple times.

According to Qirici's termination letter, she cursed at the other officer. She admitted her behavior was inappropriate but claimed he was being rude to her.

Her second strike came about a month later when she and Telisnor were stationed together.

On their break, they drove to Boston Logan International Airport to handle a personal matter involving her mother.

Qirici approached an airport officer for help, but when he asked for her identification, she allegedly became agitated and emotional, lawyers for the police department said.

After this confrontation, she was placed on desk duty and the department confiscated her gun. This is when the harassment she faced allegedly peaked.

Qirici said the officers asked if she was pregnant and kept staring at her body.

Pictured: The Boston Police Department Headquarters

In March 2019, she filed a complaint about the sex jokes and discriminatory comments with the Massachusetts Commission Against Discrimination.

She was fired about three weeks later.

While her lawyer claimed the timing suggested retaliation, the police department explained that it had nothing to do with the complaint she filed.

Qirici began training to join the police force in 2017 and was in her probation period when she got into both fights.

Edward Whitesell, a lawyer representing the city in court, said this probationary period allows the department to get rid of problematic officers early on, The Boston Globe reported.

After leaving the police department, Qirici, who already had a bachelor's degree in criminal justice and criminology, went on to pursue a law degree.

She now works as a lawyer in the Boston area, but said in court that being a police officer was her dream job, and being kicked off the force was emotionally distressing.

'She had her career and it was taken away from her,' Telisnor, who is still a cop, testified in court, according to The Boston Globe.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the BPD for a statement. Qirici declined to comment.
An Oregon representative has announced the devastating news that she's been diagnosed with stage three cancer, just a month after her friend and fellow lawmaker died from the disease.

Annessa Hartman, 37, said in a statement that she was diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer and will begin chemotherapy and immunotherapy treatment next month.

'Even though this diagnosis is terrifying, my medical team and I are optimistic about my treatment plan, and I enter this next chapter with clarity and determination,' the Democrat rep wrote.

Hartman serves in the state legislature and represents Oregon's District 40, which includes Gladstone, Oregon City, Johnson City, Jennings Lodge, Oatfield, and parts of unincorporated North Clackamas County.

She was elected to her position in 2022 and won reelection last year. In September, the mother-of-two announced that she would be leaving the legislature to spend more time with her daughters and focus on local politics.

In her statement following her diagnosis this week, Hartman made clear that it wouldn't prevent her from running for Clackamas County Commission.

'Public service is not something I do only in moments of ease; its something I believe in wholeheartedly, especially now,' she said.

'This diagnosis has only strengthened my sense of purpose and my commitment to building a place where compassion, accountability, and community care guide our decisions.'

Anessa Hartman, 37, announced that she has been diagnosed with stage three cervical cancer

Hartman (pictured with her daughters) said that despite the grim news, her medical team was optimistic and she would be starting treatment in December

Hartman's friend and colleague, Representative Hoa Nguyen (right), died last month after her cancer battle

Hartman opened up about the difficult few weeks she had grappling with the diagnosis, but expressed gratitude for her support system.

The state rep went on to say that she wanted to share the news in the spirit of transparency.

She added that she would fight alongside Oregonians dealing with health crises while juggling the 'broken' health care system and the challenges of daily life.

Hartman ended her statement with a call to action, urging others to screen for cancer and prioritize their health.

'And please, slow down enough to feel your life while youre living it,' she said.

'Life is fragile, terrifyingly fragile but it is also unbelievably beautiful when you allow yourself to live inside it instead of rushing past it.'

During her time in the legislature, Hartman served as the Chair of the Early Childhood and Human Services Committee.

She also served on the House Committee on Agriculture, Land Use, Natural Resources, and Water, and the Joint Committee on Ways and Means Subcommittee on Natural Resources.

In a tribute on Instagram, Hartman thanked Nguyen for her unwavering friendship and endless support

Hartman concluded her statement with a call to action, urging her constituents to get screened for cancer and prioritize their health

Hartman's most recent Instagram post was a tribute to her friend and colleague, Representative Hoa Nguyen.

Nguyen died last month at the age of 41 after a battle with late-stage cancer. In her final weeks, she continued to show up at the State Capitol to vote on legislation.

Hartman penned an emotional tribute to her friend, praising Nguyen for supporting her in her political journey and providing unwavering support during difficult times.

'I am forever grateful to have had the privilege of walking a small part of her path in life. Until we meet again dear friend,' Hartman wrote. A memorial in Nguyen's honor was held by lawmakers this week.
A desert city near the Arizona-California border has become a magnet for fleeing Californians hoping to escape the high cost of living and liberal politics.

Lake Havasu City sits across the Colorado River from the high-priced, high-crime Golden State, and it's becoming a hot spot for Californians to move to, with 5,358 moving there in 2023.

The area, known for being the home of the rebuilt London Bridge, has the highest ratio in the Grand Canyon State of Californians to Arizonans with roughly two-to-one making the city home, according to the Los Angeles Times.

Lake Havasu City had also been a popular spot for vacation homes and those looking for a great place to run around in a bikini during spring break, but since the pandemic, many Californians have decided to set up shop permanently.

Amber Whitehead was one of them.

'The cost of living in California is just getting ridiculous, so we decided it was time to sell,' she told the Los Angeles Times. They sold their home in Tuolumne County in 2024 after spending a year splitting their time between Arizona and the Golden State.

Lake Havasu City first gained notoriety in 1968 when inventor Robert McCulloch Sr - who also moved to the city from California - had the decommissioned London Bridge brought across the Atlantic and rebuilt brick by brick.

McCulloch was driven to find a way to entice people to Lake Havasu, so when the City of London put up the bridge for sale he bought it for $2.4million, the city said.

Lake Havasu City first gained notoriety in 1968 when inventor Robert McCulloch Sr had the decommissioned London Bridge (pictured in Arizona) brought across the Atlantic and rebuilt

He purchased the bridge (pictured in London) for $2.4million as a way to put Lake Havasu City on the map

The replacement London Bridge in England as it now stands (Pictured in 2023)

London Bridge is frequently confused by tourists in the UK with its more impressive neighbor Tower Bridge. It's commonly said that the inventor believed he was buying Tower Bridge at the time of the transaction. His family and the town dispute this, suggesting it is an urban myth.

Now, the popularity of the town has Whitehead trying to keep her fellow Californians out of the loop about how great it is, so no more move there, despite admitting the majority of the people she meets in town once hailed from the West Coast state.

And for people like Whitehead and her boyfriend, the price was right.

The average home in California sells for around $761,000, according to Zillow estimates. In Lake Havasu City, it's a mere $435,000 - or roughly 55 percent lower.

Californians' interest in the desert beach town has also driven up property value, but it still nowhere near the West Coast prices.

In 2019, there were 10 homes that were valued at more than $1million on the market at any given time. That has since gone up to more than 100, Realtor Kristina Horton, who moved to the city in 2004, told the Los Angeles Times.

Despite being the exodus location for Californians, many of Horton's customers said they don't want the city of 60,000 to become the next Golden State.

'Even though many of them were from there,' she told the outlet. 'Their view seemed to change as they moved over.'

Pictured: An illustration of the old London Bridge before the Great Fire of 1666

Lake Havasu City sits across the Colorado River from California and many Californians are fleeing to the desert city

The area has the highest ratio in the Grand Canyon State of Californians to Arizonans with roughly two-to-one

Amber Whitehead said she moved to the city after the cost of living got too high in California

London Bridge is frequently confused by tourists with its more impressive neighbor Tower Bridge. It's commonly said that the inventor believed he was buying Tower Bridge at the time of the transaction. His family and the town dispute this, suggesting it is an urban myth

California and New York have suffered the most with people permanently leaving. Between March 2024 and March 2025, 15,568 people left the Golden State and 6,099 left the Empire State, according to Consumer Affairs data.

The third and fourth largest exoduses were in New Jersey and Massachusetts, but it only saw half the amount of movement as New York with 2,710 and 2,621 people, respectively.

Arizona was in the top 10 states people are migrating to, as well as Texas, Florida, and North Carolina, among others.

Housing has become a top reason for movers in California, and many in the Gavin-run state and New York are being primarily pulled to the South and Midwest from the affordability aspect as many are being priced out of the liberal havens.

California is the worst state for renters and is also home to four out of the five worst cities for first-time homebuyers, Consumer Affairs said.

Arizona has seen a population growth of 5.4 percent between 2020 and 2024, according to The Times. It also added 6.7 percent in housing stock in the same time frame.
Sokoto  In a swift response to a fresh surge of cholera cases, Sokoto State, backed by UNICEF, has rolled out an ambitious Oral Cholera Vaccination (OCV) campaign aimed at protecting 650,000 people aged one year and above across two high-risk local government areas of Dange Shuni and Goronyo.

The decision to deploy OCV follows a rapid epidemiological assessment that flagged the two LGAs as recurring hotspots.

"The recent confirmed cholera cases left us with no choice but to act decisively," said Dr. faruk Umar Abubakar, State Commissioner for Health. "We chose the oral vaccine because it is safe, needle-free and stimulates the gut immunity where cholera infection begins."

Within the first four days, vaccinators have already reached 79 % of the target, a figure officials attribute to strong community acceptance.

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The campaign's early success has been most visible in schools and Quranic learning centres, where enthusiasm for the painless, drink-based vaccine is palpable.

At Malam Adamu's Quranic School in the Kanwuri area of Dange Shuni, more than 200 pupils lined up for the dose, while Sahabi Denge Model Primary School reported an eager turnout from its 1,300-strong student body.

"The children were eager to receive the vaccine; they saw it as a chance to stay healthy and keep learning," noted Ibrahim Kure, head teacher at the primary school.

Health workers credit intensive advocacy and community-engagement efforts that began weeks before the launch. Village heads, religious leaders, and local NGOs have been mobilised to spread key messages: drink safe water, practice proper hygiene, and seek immediate care for diarrhoea.

"Early and continuous dialogue with community gatekeepers made all the difference," explained a field coordinator, who asked to remain anonymous.

The oral vaccine's scientific advantages make it ideal for mass campaigns in rural, low-resource settings.

Administered as a single-dose drink, it triggers mucosal immunity in the intestine - the very site where cholera bacteria first attach - while eliminating the logistical challenges of cold-chain storage and the risk of needle-stick injuries associated with injectable formulations.

Beyond the vaccination effort, officials stress that lasting protection requires a combination of preventive measures. "Vaccination is only one pillar of the cholera response," Dr. Abubakar reminded residents.

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"We urge everyone to maintain good hygiene, boil or treat water where necessary, and seek immediate medical care for any diarrhoea or cholera-like symptoms."

The campaign is expected to run for several weeks, with mobile teams moving from ward to ward to ensure every eligible person receives the dose.

With 79 % coverage already achieved, health planners are confident the 650,000-person target is within reach, offering a crucial shield against future outbreaks in Sokoto's most vulnerable communities.

As the drive continues, journalists are encouraged to highlight personal stories from the field, the science behind oral vaccines, and the broader public-health measures that will keep Sokoto's communities safe from cholera.
A heartbroken mother has paid tribute to her 'beautiful' daughter who was stabbed to death in her bedroom.

Lainie Williams, 17, was found dead at her home in Cefn Fforest, South Wales, in the early hours of November 13.

Her mother, Rhian Stephens, 38, suffered stab wounds in the horror attack and has since been discharged from the hospital

Cameron Cheng, 18, is charged with murdering the teenager and the attempted murder of her mother.

In an emotional post, Ms Stephens said she was 'still coming to terms with the tragic loss of my beautiful girl Lainie Lea Louise'.

She continued: 'I knew you better than most and the memories we share will always be able to replay in my head like my personal home video.

'I miss sneaking in your bed and watching horror movies or trying to solve the cases of Law and Order!

'I miss you coming to give me a kiss goodnight every night without fail, telling me you love me and wrapping your arms round me and mine around you and telling you that I was so proud of you and you're beautiful.

Lainie Williams (pictured) was pronounced dead at the scene of the incident in the Cefn Fforest area of Blackwood, Gwent, on November 13

In an emotional post, Rhian Stephens, 38, said she was 'still coming to terms with the tragic loss of my beautiful girl Lainie Lea Louise'

Cameron Cheng, 18, is charged with murdering the teenager and the attempted murder of her mother

'I miss you more every single day, I just want you back. I lost my most prized possession, you!

'My baby boy is missing you too. The home we'd made for you, me and your brother isn't our home anymore, it's a crime scene.

'Both your brother and myself are left with nothing but the clothes on our backs.

'In the summer you're going to be a soft, cool breeze. Autumn you'll be that gentle gust of wind rustling the leaves, in the spring you'll be the first little daisy that blooms and in the winter you'll be the heat in my heart.'

The mother also asked parents to keep a close eye on 'changes' affecting their children, saying: 'I'd never want another mum to experience this type of pain.'

She wrote: 'Guys please look after your sons and daughters and look for subtle changes in their moods. Sit there with a cuppa and check in on them.

'I'd never want another mum to experience this type of pain.

'Teenagers if you're currently suffering in a relationship, speak up tell your parents they will listen.'

She added: 'Don't let Lainie die in vain because all too quickly it could end up like this scenario again and again.

'Your mamma misses you baby girl xx.'

Police at the scene on Wheatley Place in the Cefn Fforest area of Blackwood, Gwent, on Thursday morning

Dozens of friends and family members, including her grandmother Ceri, have also updated their Facebook profiles in tribute to Ms Williams.

Her cousin Megan wrote: 'There's not enough words, rest peacefully our brave and beautiful cousin Lainie.

'Very fond childhood memories I'll cherish forever. You were and still are so loved.'

The family has set up a GoFundMe campaign to go towards funeral costs, and has raised more 12,000 so far.

Ms Williams' cousin, Shania Price, said: 'We are heartbroken to share the sad passing of our beautiful Lainie Williams, whose life was tragically taken far too soon.

'As her family navigates this unimaginable loss, we are hoping to come together as a community to help ease the financial burden of giving Lainie the beautiful send-off she deserves.'

Armed police were called to the family's three-bedroom former council house in the village of Cefn Fforest.

Paramedics arrived in an air ambulance but were sadly unable to save Ms Williams, and she was declared dead at the scene.

Cefn Fforest Councillor Shane Williams said: 'We are all deeply shocked and saddened by the events that have unfolded.

'As councillors, we'd like to do our best to reassure everyone, and our thoughts are with the family at this time.

'Something like this is highly unusual in this area, and I can understand if many residents are now frightened.

'When a young girl loses her life like that, it's quite horrendous.'

Cheng, 18, appeared before Cardiff Crown Court on Tuesday, also charged with possession of a bladed article.

Appearing via video link from prison, Cheng, who is a British national, spoke only to confirm his name and date of birth.

He was remanded in custody to next appear on December 12.

Judge Tracey Lloyd-Clarke, the Recorder of Cardiff, set a trial date for May 11, 2026, with a time estimate of two to three weeks.
Shabana Mahmood has warned police chiefs they should not be investigating 'perfectly legal language' used on social media.

The Home Secretary said forces should concentrate on 'policing our streets' rather than looking into complaints made about online activities.

Her remarks come amid widespread concern over vast amounts of police time being wasted investigating online statements that have been reported as 'offensive', leading to members of the public being accused of 'non-crime hate incidents'.

Ms Mahmood also told an audience of senior police officers and police and crime commissioners (PCCs) that there is currently a policing 'postcode lottery' in England and Wales.

Her remarks came after she announced last week that PCCs will be abolished from 2028, and just weeks before she is due to unveil a new package of major police reforms.

Ms Mahmood said: 'Clearly, the public rightly expect that we police our streets.

'There is most certainly criminality online.

Shabana Mahmood, the Home Secretary, told an audience of senior police officers that they should no longer be investigating 'perfectly legal' language used online by members of the public

'Some things cannot be legally tweeted, just as they cannot be legally said, but we should not be policing perfectly legal language in any individual's tweets.'

The Home Secretary told a conference of senior officers that some types of crime which are key concerns for the public are rising at a 'considerable rate'.

She pinpointed street crime, shoplifting, phone theft and drugs offences.

The Home Secretary blasted the current police structure of 43 forces in England and Wales as 'irrational', as well as voicing further concerns about how they investigate crime and operate their back room bureaucracy.

'Clearly too much police time is spent behind a desk,' she told the annual conference of the National Police Chiefs Council and the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners in Westminster.

'In part, this is because police forces across the country are duplicating work.

'The same types of software are being procured many times over instead of once.

The Home Secretary told senior cops that 'too much police time is spent behind a desk'

'Nationally, thousands of man hours are wasted trawling through CCTV, inputting data or redacting documents and opportunities are missed to catch perpetrators because intelligence systems don't communicate.'

She warned her audience to expect significant changes when she publishes a White Paper on police reform 'in the coming weeks'.

'I was a reformer at the Ministry of Justice and will be a reformer at the Home Office, too,' Ms Mahmood said.

'I will be driven, above all else, by performance that will provide the right level of scrutiny and accountability without ever stepping into operational independence, which ensures that all of you can police expertly, without fear or favour.'

The Home Secretary announced last week that the directly-elected commissioners were a 'failed experiment' and will be abolished in 2028.

Under the reforms oversight of local policing will be handed to elected mayors in some parts of the country, or to policing boards made up mainly of local councillors.

In today's speech, Ms Mahmood revealed for the first time that as part of the shake-up some of the powers currently held by PCCs will return to central government.

She said: 'We will bring some powers back in house under the Home Secretary, as they were in years gone by.

'It is vital that police forces are held to account democratically.

'It is also essential that we ensure there is consistency in the application of the law across forces.'

She did not reveal which powers will again return to the home secretary but it is likely to be the ability to remove a chief constable - steps which were previously the domain of politicians but were handed to PCCs at their creation in 2012.

PCCs were designed to make police forces answerable to elected officials.

They have the power to set budgets and council tax precepts, dismiss chief constables and draw up crime-fighting plans.

But critics have long dismissed PCCs - who receive salaries of up to 101,900 - as 'an extra layer of bureaucracy' and a waste of taxpayers money.

The axing of PCCs may be politically attractive to the government as there are currently only 14 Labour PCCs compared to 18 Conservatives

Ministers claimed their abolition will save 100million during this parliament  up to 2029  followed by about 20million a year, which could fund '320 extra police constables'.

However, the Association of Police and Crime Commissioners (APCC) warned it risked creating a 'dangerous accountability vacuum'.

Its chairman Emily Spurrell, who is also the PCC for Merseyside, said last week: 'Abolishing PCCs now, without any consultation, as policing faces a crisis of public trust and confidence and as it is about to be handed a much stronger national centre, risks creating a dangerous accountability vacuum.'
A California man who was captured going on a profanity-filled rampage inside a hair salon after he arrived an hour late to his appointment has been sentenced.

August Marriott, 28, was sentenced to six years behind bars on Tuesday after he pleaded guilty to an assault charge, Fox 5 reported.

The so-called 'male Karen' was captured on cell phone footage raging inside of Great Clips salon in Santee, an hour outside of San Diego, earlier this year.

Marriott, who was out on parole for a previous charge at the time, became irate after a staffer at the salon pointed out he had shown up late for an appointment just before 7pm on January 29.

The video of his outburst was posted on social media and went viral, as he was seen overturning shelves of products in a rage.

He then threw shampoo bottles across the salon while yelling obscenities, the San Diego County Sheriff's Office said in a release.

The furious outburst resulted in one employee sustaining minor injuries, but Marriott fled before officers arrived on the scene.

Jessica Schirmer, a stylist at the salon, captured video footage of Marriott's tantrum and told NBC 7 that she 'just didn't know how he was going to act.'

August Marriott, 28, was sentenced to six years behind bars on Tuesday after going on a profanity filled rampage inside a hair salon

Marriott was captured on cell phone footage throwing shampoo bottles while yelling obscenities inside of Great Clips salon

'I'm pretty shaken up because we didn't know if he had anything in his pockets, you know, weapon, knife,' she told the outlet.

'You don't know how someone's going to act when they just kind of snap like that.'

Schirmer said that Marriott had walked into the salon just before closing time, complaining he wasn't able to make an appointment online.

While she agreed to stay and cut his hair, what followed was him screaming obscenities before things escalated.

Within seconds, he began to violently vandalize the store after he was asked to leave. Marriott fled the scene before police arrived, the sheriff's office said.

He was located thanks to 'many' anonymous tips and he was arrested in Chula Vista on February 4.

While his arrest came as a relief to the salon employees, his outburst left them in fear for future potential acts of violence.

'That next night when we were closing I was looking out the window, kind of making sure we did everything at the same time so we could leave at the same time,' she said.

Marriott was out on probation at the time fled the scene but was eventually arrested. He initially posted bail but was later arrested in Florida after he missed a court date

The furious outburst resulted in one employee at the Great Clips salon in Santee (pictured), an hour outside of San Diego, sustaining minor injuries

Jessica Schirmer (pictured), a stylist at the salon, said Marriott's outburst has left her colleagues in fear for future potential acts of violence

Marriott initially posted bail but was later arrested in Florida after he missed a court date, according to law enforcement.

According to online records, Marriott had also gone by the names Cooper Hill and Juan Martinez.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L Parker has ended DEI city contracts in order to provide 'access to economic opportunity for all' as she seeks to transform the city.

Parker is a tough-on-crime Democrat who defies her party's progressives, leading commentators to describe her as 'Trumpesque' during her election bid in 2023.

In her latest break with the party line, Parker has been quietly erasing racial diversity goals from city contracting, saying the approach has failed.

Parker, who is Philadelphia's first female mayor, and the first black woman to hold the position, added that the move is also in line with legal advice given nationwide.

'We need to make a shift to be in compliance with federal court orders, including a ruling from the US Supreme Court,' she said.

'But long before that, we all know that the programs we had in place were not working.'

The Pennsylvania city has had DEI programs in place for 40 years in an effort to boost diverse businesses, but Parker said they have not produced results.

'We knew the system was broken years before,' Parker said at a meeting this week.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L Parker (pictured) has ended DEI contracts in order to provide 'access to economic opportunity for all' rather than just specific groups

The Pennsylvania city of Philadelphia (pictured in 2020) has had DEI programs in place for 40 years in an effort to boost diverse businesses, but Parker said they have not produced results

'Because every time we would look at the numbers and we would want to see how many black and brown and women and disabled business owners were growing in the city of Philadelphia, the numbers became stagnant.'

In 2023, the Supreme Court ruling in Students for Fair Admissions v Harvard put an end to race-related affirmative action in the college admission process.

America's highest justices decided that DEI policies violated the Fourteenth Amendment, which guarantees 'equal protection of the laws' for all citizens.

However, Philadelphia City Councilmember Kendra Brooks told the Philadelphia Inquirer that Parker is simply 'caving' to Donald Trump's aggressive anti-DEI agenda.

'People want to see leaders fighting for something, and right now we don't see our city fighting for anything,' said Brooks, of the progressive Working Families Party.

Parker hit back. 'I'm fighting,' she said. 'But I'm fighting the fight the way I know best: to achieve the results and act and extract the tangible results that I need for the people who live in this city, who own businesses in the city.'

The Democrat mayor said her administration was focusing on giving black and women business owners access to capital and other tools they need to develop.

She said this is needed before many can compete for city contracts, rather than relying on 'tick box' DEI contracts.

Parker is a tough-on-crime Democrat who defies her party's progressives, leading commentators to describe her as 'Trumpesque' during her election bid in 2023

Mayor Parker hired 75 more cops for Kensington upon taking office in last January 2024

Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley said that only 20 percent of minority-owned businesses were actually winning city contracts through the DEI policies.

'Obviously, it was not working,' Garrett Harley said.

Parker has also been cleaning up crime in her city - the key pledge in her 2023 election bid which got her elected over her Democratic opponents.

After taking office in 2024, she hired 75 police officers for the worst-hit area of Kensington. They cleared homeless encampments and increased narcotics arrests.

Since then, homicides in the city are down 13 percent, while property crimes have decreased by four percent, according to Philadelphia Police Department statistics.

However, violent crimes have risen slightly by 0.23 percent, figures show.

Trump was also elected on a tough-on-crime platform in November 2024, with his other key policies being a crackdown on illegal immigration and DEI policies.

The president immediately signed a series of executive orders to end DEI programs within 24 hours of arriving back in the White House in January 2025.

His administration sent a letter to all heads of government agencies, informing them all federal employees in DEI roles must be placed on paid leave within days.

The first executive order slammed the 'infiltration' of DEI programs into the federal government, and cited the executive order signed by Biden on the first day of his presidency that aimed to tackle racial inequalities in government.

Another executive order also rolled back affirmative action in federal contracting, reversing a longstanding order first signed by President Lyndon Johnson in 1965.

Trump's order argued that DEI programs 'not only violate the text and spirit of our longstanding Federal civil-rights laws, they also undermine our national unity.'

'Hardworking Americans who deserve a shot at the American Dream should not be stigmatized, demeaned, or shut out of opportunities because of their race or sex,' he said in a statement at the time.

'The American people have witnessed first-hand the disastrous consequences of illegal, pernicious discrimination that has prioritized how people were born instead of what they were capable of doing.'
A man has denied burglary after 'irreplaceable' gold jewellery was stolen from a museum in Cardiff.

Several Bronze Age items were allegedly stolen from a display case at St Fagans National Museum of History at around 12.30am on October 6.

Gavin Burnett, 43, appeared at Northampton Crown Court via video-link from HMP Peterborough on Wednesday.

Burnett, from Northampton, pleaded not guilty to burglary.

He also denied three other charges including conspiracy to commit burglary, conspiracy to steal a motor vehicle, and making a threat to kill during the same hearing.

The missing items include Four Middle Bronze Age gold armlets from Llanwrthwrl, Powys, and an Early Bronze Age gold lunula, a crescent-shaped ornament worn as a necklace, from Llanllyfni, Gwynedd.

Darren Burnett, 50, also from Northampton, also appeared by videolink for the 25-minute hearing but was not asked to enter any pleas. He is expected to be arraigned on December 11.

The museum's chief executive described the stolen Bronze Age gold jewellery as 'invaluable'

The items went missing from St Fagans National Museum of History in Cardiff last month

South Wales Police said a 45-year-old woman from Northamptonshire was arrested as part of the investigation and is on police bail.

The items were taken from the open-air museum, which opened in 1948 in the grounds of St Fagans castle and is a popular heritage visitor attraction.

Jane Richardson, chief executive of Amgueddfa Cymru, or Museum Wales, previously said in a statement released by police: 'We'd like to thank the police for their continuing investigation into the search for these invaluable and irreplaceable items that are part of Wales's history, heritage, and culture.

'I'd like to encourage anyone who may have any information about their location to come forward to the police so that they can be returned to their rightful home within Wales's national collection for everyone to access and enjoy.'
The parents of Anna Kepner's 16-year-old stepbrother have admitted for the first time that he is considered a 'suspect' in her mysterious death onboard a packed Carnival cruise ship.

Anna, 18, was on a six-day Caribbean getaway with her dad, stepmom, siblings and step-siblings when she was declared dead in international waters between Mexico and Florida on November 7.

Sources say the cheerleader's body was found wrapped in a blanket and stuffed under a bed in her cabin, the grim discovery prompting FBI agents to swarm the Carnival Horizon when it returned to Miami a day later.

Court filings obtained exclusively by the Daily Mail confirm that Anna's stepbrother, who cannot be named for legal reasons, now faces possible criminal charges.

He is currently in the care of an unnamed 'third party,' according to a motion filed Tuesday by the boy's anxious father demanding urgent clarification of what is happening to his son.

Thomas Hudson is also seeking immediate custody of their other minor child, a nine-year-old girl currently living in Titusville, Florida, with Shauntel Hudson and Anna's dad, Christopher Kepner.

'The respondent took the remaining minor children on a cruise with a stepchild of her paramour,' his filing says.

'The sixteen-year-old child is now a suspect in the death of the stepchild during the cruise. While released from custody, the sixteen-year-old child is residing with a third party.'

Anna Kepner went on the cruise with her 16-year-old stepbrother and other family members. Court filings obtained by the Daily Mail confirm the stepbrother is now a 'suspect' in her death

The 18-year-old was on a six-day Caribbean cruise with her father, stepmother, siblings and stepsiblings when she was found dead in international waters between Mexico and Florida on November 7

Anna's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, has been locked in a custody battle with her ex, Thomas Hudson, over their children. On Tuesday, she filed a response acknowledging that 'it is true that there is an open investigation' into her stepdaughter's death

The filing adds: 'The sixteen-year-old's future has been put in jeopardy because of the choices made by the respondent the youngest child is at immediate risk of abuse, abandonment, or neglect in the care of the respondent.'

Shauntel filed a response late Tuesday denying allegations that she 'abused, neglected or abandoned' her children.

She added: 'It is true that there is an open investigation regarding the death of the biological daughter of the stepfather and [boy's initials] is a suspect regarding this death which occurred recently on a cruise ship.'

Shauntel's filing said the boy was staying with one of her relatives and she is providing counseling for all of her children.

Bubbly Anna grew up on Florida's sun-drenched Space Coast with Christopher, 41, his ex-wife Tabitha Kepner, 33, and siblings, aged 14 and nine.

Christopher and Tabitha split in 2023 but the crane operator soon found love again with Shauntel, who divorced Thomas Hudson last year and relocated to Titusville with their two youngest kids.

Late last year Thomas, 37, accused his ex-wife of 'willfully violating' court orders and 'denying his parenting time' in a motion for contempt filed in Brevard County.

They were due to square off in court next month, but Shauntel filed an emergency motion Tuesday requesting more time to respond due to an 'extremely sensitive and severe circumstance.'

Thomas is also seeking emergency custody of their nine-year-old daughter, who lives in Titusville, Florida, with Shauntel and Annas father, Christopher Kepner

Bubbly Anna grew up on Floridas sun-soaked Space Coast with her father, Christopher, 41, his ex-wife and Anna's stepmother, Tabitha, 33, and siblings aged 14 and nine

Christopher and Tabitha split in 2023, but he soon found love with Shauntel, who divorced Thomas last year and moved to Titusville with their two youngest children

She said the FBI had advised her that one of her minor children faced a potential criminal prosecution related to Anna's death.

'Any testimony the respondent may give, either written or oral, could be prejudicial to her or her adolescent child in this pending criminal investigation,' wrote Shauntel's lawyer.

She also denied Hudson's claims that she has refused him parenting time under their current custody plan.

Thus far, the FBI has refused to say how Anna died  or whether she was murdered  on board the Carnival Horizon, which visited Jamaica, Grand Cayman, and Cozumel before sailing back to Miami.

Sources have told the Daily Mail that Anna complained of feeling unwell on the evening of November 6 and went back to her cabin.

When she didn't appear for breakfast the next day her family members began searching the sprawling $800million mega-vessel which carries up to 4,700 guests.

A maid eventually found the youngster wrapped in a blanket, covered over with life jackets and stuffed under a bed, according to our sources, who spoke under condition of anonymity.

The Miami Dade County Medical Examiner lists Anna's time of death at 11.17am on November 7 but it has not revealed its findings.

Heartbroken Christopher insisted in a previous interview with the Daily Mail that investigators had shared barely any details with him.

A maid aboard the Carnival cruise was the one to find Anna's body wrapped in a blanket, covered over with life jackets and stuffed under a bed, according to our sources, who spoke under condition of anonymity

Kepner posted a TikTok video from on board the ship six months ago saying how much she wanted to return

'We were there as a family. Everybody was questioned. Everybody came off that ship. I don't know who they are looking at or what their investigation is,' he said.

'The FBI hasn't shared anything with me yet. I would imagine they're going to be in contact with me about it  but I know as little as everybody else.

'I have no idea what is going on right now. We are just trying to sit still and wait for answers.'

Known by her nickname Anna Banana, the 18-year-old was set to graduate in May and had plans to join the military.

A gymnast and varsity cheerleader, she attended Temple Christian School in Titusville, where her Kia Forte remained parked up this week, covered in flowers and tributes from heartbroken pals.

She was a 'bright, kind-hearted young woman whose presence brought warmth and energy into the classroom,' the school said in a touching Facebook post.

Christopher said his daughter's ultimate career goal was to join the local police department so she could protect her friends and family.

'The whole family is lost for words. We miss her and love her more than anything,' he added.

Anna had been on previous cruises and had raved about her love of travel on TikTok.

One post showed her enjoying a holiday on the very same boat six months earlier. She danced about in a white dress and captioned the haunting clip: 'I wanna go back.'

Carnival said in a statement: 'Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI.'

A spokesman for the bureau added: 'No further information is being released at this time.'
Donald Trump has signalled to Volodymyr Zelensky that he will be forced to accept a peace deal with Vladimir Putin that would see his country hand over land to Russia.

The FT reported that the plans, if accepted, would see Ukraine cede its share of the eastern Donbas region and cut the size of its army by half.

It would also see the war-torn country abandon key weapon types and the US roll back the military assistance it has provided, a vital part of its defence against Russia.

It also calls for Putin's country to be recognised as an official state language in Ukraine, and for the Russian Orthodox Church to be granted an official status.

Washington wants Kyiv to accept the main points, however, according to anonymous sources who spoke to Reuters.

Such a plan would represent a major setback for Kyiv as it faces further Russian territorial gains in eastern Ukraine and with Zelensky tackling a corruption scandal in which parliament dismissed the energy and justice ministers on Wednesday.

It comes amid reports that the US and Russia have been secretly thrashing out a new 28-point peace plan to end the war in Ukraine, similar to the Gaza deal.

But Kyiv had no role in preparing the proposals, a senior Ukrainian source told Reuters, adding that it had received 'signals' regarding the plans this week.

It is a roadmap inspired by US President Donald Trump's Gaza ceasefire, Axios reported, citing US and Russian officials.

The proposal would consist of 'peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, security in Europe, and future US relations with Russia and Ukraine'.

It is a roadmap inspired by US President Donald Trump's plan for the Gaza ceasefire

Vladimir Putin set out his core conditions in June 2024, demanding Kyiv renounce plans to join the US-led NATO military alliance and withdraw troops from four provinces Moscow claims as part of Russia

Announcing plans to visit Turkey, Volodymyr Zelensky said on Tuesday he was preparing to 'reinvigorate negotiations'

The US special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is leading the formation of the plan and 'has discussed it extensively with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev,' Axios reported, citing a US official.

The FT also reported that Witkoff has made it clear to Zelensky that he must accept the deal, despite it crossing many of Ukraine's red lines.

Axios also reported that Witkoff discussed the plan with Rustem Umerov, Zelensky's security advisor, earlier this week in Miami.

A US official also reportedly said the White House had started to brief European officials.

Asked about the report, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday there were no developments to announce on possible peace proposals since Putin and Trump held a summit in Alaska in August.

'So far there are no innovations on this that can be reported to you,' Peskov said.

A senior Ukrainian official told Reuters that Kyiv had received 'signals' about a set of US proposals to end the war that Washington has discussed with Russia.

Ukraine has had no role in preparing the proposals, the source said.

Putin set out his core conditions in June 2024, demanding Kyiv renounce plans to join the US-led NATO military alliance and withdraw troops from four provinces Moscow claims as part of Russia.

Moscow has given no indication that it has dropped any of those demands and Ukraine says it will not accept them.

Signs of a renewed US-led push to end the war triggered the biggest jump in Ukraine's government bond prices in months on Wednesday.

No face-to-face talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow since a meeting in Istanbul in July and Russian forces have pressed on with the nearly four-year-old war in Ukraine, killing 25 people in strikes overnight.

Efforts to revive peace negotiations appear to be gaining momentum, although Moscow has shown no sign of changing its terms for ending the war.

Putin has long demanded Kyiv renounce plans to join the US-led NATO military alliance and withdraw its troops from four provinces Moscow claims as part of Russia.

Moscow has given no indication that it has dropped any of those demands and Ukraine says it will not accept them.

Zelensky will hold talks in Turkey on Wednesday and meet US Army officials in Kyiv on Thursday in a new drive to revive peace negotiations with Russia.

The Ukrainian President said on Tuesday he was preparing to 'reinvigorate negotiations' and would discuss with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan how to bring a 'just peace' to Ukraine.

'Doing everything possible to bring the end of the war closer is Ukraine's top priority,' he said of the meetings in Turkey.

Turkey, a NATO member that has remained close to both sides, hosted an initial round of peace talks in the early weeks of the war in 2022, the only such talks until this year when Trump launched a new bid to end the fighting.

The Kremlin said Russian representatives would not be involved in the talks but that Putin was open to conversations with the United States and Turkey about the results of the discussions.

Trump's efforts to broker an end to the war have so far been unsuccessful and he last month abruptly cancelled a planned summit with Putin in Budapest.

Russian forces control about 19 per cent of Ukrainian territory and are grinding forwards, while carrying out frequent attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure as winter approaches.
The brother of a key witness in Donald Trump's impeachment stemming from a conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky says there was another 'problematic' phone call that needs to see the light of day.

Congressman Eugene Vindman is calling on the White House to release the transcript of a call Trump had with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman after the death of journalist Jamal Khashoggi in 2018.

The Virginia Democrat detailed from the House floor on Tuesday that he was aware of the call due to his role on Trump's first-term National Security Council staff where he reviewed many of his calls with foreign leaders.

Vindman said this call with MBS 'stood out' just as much as the one Trump had with Zelensky that served as key evidence to bring the first impeachment charges against him.

And the lawmaker insists that finding out the details of the call has become pertinent after Trump welcomed bin Salman, known colloquially by his initials MBS, to the White House this week.

'If history is any guide, the receipts will be shocking,' Vindman said in his remarks on the call.

He added: 'Honestly, does anyone believe that the Zelensky call was the only problematic conversation Donald Trump had with a foreign leader?'

White House Communications Director Steven Cheung said that 'Vindman is a bitter back-bencher who nobody takes seriously,' when reached for comment by the Daily Mail.

President Donald Trump had a chummy meeting with Mohammed bin Salman at the White Huse on Tuesday, November 18, 2025 where he defended the Saudi Crown Prince against questions about the assassination of journalist Jamal Khashoggi

'He is a serial liar and was part of the hoax relating to the perfect Ukraine call, in which the Ukrainian president said so himself,' Cheung added.

Meanwhile, Trump launched a full-throated defense of the Saudi Crown Prince during their Oval Office meeting on Tuesday when he was questioned by press about a 2021 U.S. intelligence report concluding he approved an operation to 'capture or kill' Khashoggi.

He said the line of questioning was embarrassing and said the murdered Saudi dissident and Washington Post journalist was 'extremely controversial.' The president insisted that MBS 'knew nothing about' his death.

Khashoggi entered Saudi Arabia's consulate in Istanbul, Turkey on October 2, 2018 to obtain marriage documents  he never left. Investigators concluded that he was strangled and dismembered with a bonesaw inside the consulate, and that his body was removed in pieces in suitcases.

The CIA concluded in November 2018 that bin Salman ordered Khashoggi's assassination.

Trump is now disputing those findings.

He dismissed the brutal murder of Khashoggi, who relocated to the U.S. in June 2017, and said on Tuesday alongside MBS that 'things happen.'

'Given the president's distributing and counter-factual defense of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman today, I feel compelled to speak-up on behalf of Mr. Khashoggi and his family and the American people,' Congressman Vindman said.

'After the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, I reviewed a call between the President and the Saudi Crown Prince,' he added. 'The American people and the Khashoggi family deserve to know what was said on that call.'

Saudi dissident and Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi (pictured) was assassination in the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul, Turkey on October 2, 2018

The lawmaker received a report from his identical twin brother, Lieutenant Colonel Alexander Vindman, on Trump's phone call with Zelensky, which he flagged to senior White House lawyers.

The Colonel testified before Congress in 2019 about the Trump-Ukraine scandal. The testimony ultimately helped provide evidence that resulted in a charge of abuse of power against Trump in the first impeachment trial.
A Ryanair passenger who locked himself in the toilet and shouted homophobic slurs at cabin crew after they took too long to bring him his sandwich has been handed a suspended sentence.

Dublin District Court today heard how Gerard Moorehouse, 45, delayed landing for several minutes and compromised the flight's safety after he barricaded himself in a bathroom stall.

Moorehouse, who was found guilty of threatening, abusive or insulting behaviour on an aircraft, was given a three-month suspended sentence and ordered to pay a 1,500 fine.

The father-of-two told the court he needed the bathroom due to bowel problems and claimed he was discriminated against by cabin crew for being a Traveller on the August 15 flight from London Gatwick to Dublin.

But the court heard how a 'demanding' Moorehouse, of Piercetown, Newbridge, Co Kildare, used the call bell multiple times before cabin crew were able to take his food order.

After being told his toastie would be a 10-15 minute wait, he reportedly became 'aggressive and hostile' and said to two cabin crew members, 'are you gay?'.

One staff member told the court: ''I tried to reason with him but it didn't work. He called us f****ts multiple times and told us to f**k off.

'He verbally threatened me, saying there will be a fight if he does not get his sandwich now.'

A Ryanair passenger who locked himself in the toilet and shouted homophobic slurs at cabin crew after they took too long to bring him his sandwich has been handed a suspended sentence

After the seat-belt lights went on for landing, Moorehouse stood up and said. 'I've been waiting for 30 minutes, I'm going to take a s**t' and went into the toilet, as members of staff banged on the door and pleaded with him to take his seat.

He later told the court that he needed his sandwich because he was diabetic but got nothing while 'guys in business suits were drinking Jack and Coke'.

Moorehouse added that he went to the bathroom due to bowel problems, saying that 'I couldn't poop on the floor'.

The incident resulted in the plane having to go around until Moorehouse went back to his seat.

He admitted to insulting a flight attendant but denied threatening him.

Ryanair has been approached for comment.

Moorehouse's sentencing comes after it was reported last week that an Air Canada passenger is facing jail time after he squared up to an air hostess and hurled racial abuse at her when he was refused a cup of coffee.

Iranian-born Akbar Aghgaleh, who was on a flight from Montreal to London Heathrow on August 29 last year, allegedly confronted flight attendant Kaitlin Knights-Fullum with his 'fists clenched in a fighting stance.'

Despite having been told that service had ended, the 61-year-old repeatedly yelled: 'I need my f***ing coffee. Get me the f***ing supervisor. Oh you're the f***ing supervisor.

When told to calm down he shouted: I am f***ing calm. I am f***ing calm. If we arent landing in five minutes I am going to sue your f***ing ass.

Once the plane had landed, police boarded the aircraft to remove Aghgaleh.

Bodycam footage from the arrest, played in Uxbridge Magistrates Court, showed Aghgaleh repeatedly shouting: Gypsy Canada. Gypsy Canada. Gypsy Canadians, as he points his phone at passengers while escorted from the Boeing 787 Dreamliner.

When a police officer tells him to stop mouthing off, Aghgaleh said: What do you want. I am British like you are.'
A post on X has ignited speculation after Donald Trump's foreign envoy appeared to accidentally reveal his source for a leaked peace plan to end Russia's war in Ukraine.

Replying to an Axios report about secret US-Russia negotiations, Steve Witkoff wrote: 'He must have gotten this from K.'

X users immediately began guessing who 'K' might be.

The prime suspect: Kirill Dmitriev, the Russian official quoted extensively in the story. Others suggested Jared Kushner.

But two sources told the Daily Mail that Witkoff doesn't call Kushner 'K'  pointing the finger squarely at the Kremlin envoy.

The gaffe suggests Russia may be deliberately leaking details of the sensitive negotiations.

Two diplomats, speaking anonymously, claimed to the Daily Mail that they believe the White House intended for the information to leak, hoping to reinforce the narrative that Trump is actively working behind the scenes to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

'It's fine if it actually produces some results, but the bottom line is that Putin will never give up his goal, even if he tries to appear to participate in some 'deal,' a former diplomat to Europe told Daily Mail.

The leak revealed that the White House has been working in the background to hash out a new 28-point peace plan with Russia, hoping to deliver on the president's campaign promise to end the war with Ukraine, a source familiar with diplomatic conversations confirmed to the Daily Mail.

A Russian official told Axios he is 'optimistic' about the plan, and sources say it's points fall into four categories: security guarantees, peace in Ukraine, security in Europe, and the US relationship with Russia and Ukraine

US Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff leaves after a meeting with relatives of hostages held in Gaza since October 2023, at the Hostages Square in Tel Aviv, on May 13

The 28-point peace plan is reportedly inspired by the success of Trump's lead negotiators in the Middle East. Trump's special envoy Witkoff, also handling conversations with Russian leaders, is spearheading this effort.

Trump enacted a 20-point peace plan in Gaza that succeeded.

A Russian official told Axios he is 'optimistic' about the plan, and sources say it's points fall into four categories: security guarantees, peace in Ukraine, security in Europe, and the US relationship with Russia and Ukraine.

Plans for territorial control in eastern Ukraine are still unclear.

As part of those peace talks, the Pentagon US delegation is also paying a visit to Kyiv on Wednesday.

Army secretary Dan Driscoll along with other senior brass are on a 'fact finding mission to meet with Ukrainian officials and discuss efforts to end the war,' an army spokesperson said in a statement.

Traveling alongside Driscoll to Kyiv are reportedly Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George, Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer and Gen. Chris Donahue.

CNN reporting that Driscoll planned to talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy about conditions on the battlefield as well as military needs and peace efforts.

The leak revealed that the White House has been working in the background to hash out a new 28-point peace plan with Russia , hoping to deliver on the president's campaign promise to end the war with Ukraine, a source familiar with diplomatic conversations confirmed to the Daily Mail

When questioned about the matter, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated that there are 'no new developments to report at this time' concerning an end to the war.

Meanwhile, in Washington, Republicans are attempting to move forward with a bill backed by Senator Lindsey Graham that would effectively sanction Russia.

The legislation grants the president authority to impose secondary sanctions and tariffs on countries that continue purchasing discounted Russian oil and gas.

Countries like Iran could also be added to the list.

The White House did not immediately respond to a request for comment, nor did Witkoff's team.
The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, on Tuesday, restated Nigeria's readiness to do business with the rest of the world, saying ongoing reforms undertaken by the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu across different sectors is opening new opportunities for investments.

"There is no better time to invest in Nigeria. You have come at the right time where we have been blessed

with committed leadership," he declared.

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The Vice President stated this when he received a delegation from the Advanced Energy Partners (AEP) led by chairman of the consortium, Senator Abu Ibrahim, on a courtesy visit to the Presidential Villa.

Senator Shettima, who outlined the abundant resources and potentials across Nigeria, said the Tinubu administration, through specific policies and interventions, is creating the enabling environment for the economy to grow and attract foreign direct investments.

"Be rest assured that you have invested your trust in the right nation. Nigeria is ready for business. We have crossed the Rubicon and are now on the path of sustainable development," he told the delegation.

Earlier, leader of the delegation, Senator Abu Ibrahim, said the team was on ground in Nigeria to, among other things, explore major opportunities for investment in the upstream oil industry and sectors of the economy.

For his part, the Vice President of China North Industries Corporation (NORINCO), Mr QIANG Wenyu, said the visit was in furtherance of an earlier meeting with President Tinubu in September 2024 in Beijing, just as he reiterated the company's commitment to collaborating with Nigerian partners in key sectors of the nation's economy.

He said the company was prepared to fulfill its earlier pledge to deepen cooperation and expand its operations in Nigeria, noting that "for the past one year, we have been acting on that."

He listed NORINCO's core areas of operations to include energy, oil & gas, defence industries and mining, among others, noting that the company's annual turnover grew last year to $30 billion, maintaining a strong reputation in its core fields of operations.

For her part, the CEO of Horizon Energy Abu Dhabi, Ms. Mahra Rashed Al Suwaidi, applauded the leadership of President Tinubu, attributing the company's renewed interest to invest in Nigeria to the country's current leadership.

She added that the firm's confidence in the current administration is reflected in the management of key institutions, including the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPC), among others.

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In the same vein, the UAE Ambassador to Nigeria, Salem Saeed Musabbeh Al Shamsi, urged the consortium to waste no time in investing in Nigeria, describing the country as the "right place" for foreign investment.

Noting that the Tinubu administration is the "right government," he said it has strengthened Nigeria's economic and bilateral ties with the UAE, leading to non-oil trade between both countries amounting to $4.3 billion in 2024.

Also present at the meeting were the CEO of AEP, Mr Shakiru Olayinka; Mr Abiye Membere from AEP; Mr HU Keyu from China Zhenhua Oil Corporation; Mr XU Yongfeng from Beijing Auxin Chemical Technology Corporation, and Mr LIANG Hongda from NORINCO African Dept, among others.
An 89-year-old female driver in Wisconsin is facing jail time for allegedly smashing into nine-year-old schoolgirl in a crosswalk before speeding away.

Darlene Adam was charged after the crash last month left little Lenci Lambert, with cuts, bruises and a concussion.

Lambert had been on her way to school at around 8am on October 28, as Adam drove her silver Ford Focus toward a crosswalk in Cudahy, in suburban Milwaukee.

A crossing guard, who was wearing high-visibility vest, had even raised a stop sign to halt drivers and allow students to cross the road, Law & Crime reported.

As Lambert began to cross, Adam's approached 'without slowing down' and struck the young girl before continuing on without stopping, according to a criminal complaint obtained by the outlet.

Witnesses recalled seeing 'a cup and a shoe fly up in the air' before the car pulled away from the scene, and another said they saw that the car didn't brake before hitting Lambert, the outlet reported.

Officers found the young girl 'lying in the street' and were able to obtain surveillance footage that captured the Ford Focus parked at a nearby hospital.

Lambert was taken to a children's hospital with bandaged arms and legs, as well as 'abrasions and bruising' to her left cheek, left eye and forehead.

Darlene Adam, 89, was charged with a hit and run causing injury after allegedly striking nine-year-old Laci Lambert with her car as the young girl was on her way to school

Officers responded to find Lambert 'lying on the floor' surrounded by witnesses. Onlookers recalled seeing 'a cup and a shoe fly up in the air' before the car pulled away from the scene

Lambert, who since celebrated her tenth birthday, was covered in abrasions and bruises and suffered a concussion following the crash. She's pictured here with her mother

Adam's car was found to have 'fresh damage to the front passenger side, a cracked windshield, and an apparent handprint on the glass,' according to the complaint obtained by the outlet.

Investigators asked if Adam remembered an incident, to which she replied that she 'believed a rock had hit her vehicle or that she had run into a construction barrel.'

Adam only saw the damage to her vehicle once she arrived at the hospital, according to the complaint, Law & Crime reported.

She said that she was not aware of her speed and did not remember seeing the crossing guard in the crosswalk.

Adam told WISN that the incident was an accident and she never saw the girl, but she won't be driving again.

'I'm giving up my license,' she told the outlet.

Adam faces up to nine months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000.

A GoFundMe was launched to help Lambert's family cover medical expenses stemming from the horrific incident.

Adam, who has said she will be giving up her license, faces up to nine months in jail and a fine of up to $10,000

A GoFundMe was set up for her family to help cover the medical expenses after the incident

'What should have been a normal day turned into a terrifying experience that left her with a concussion, painful road rash, and a tremendous emotional and mental toll,' the fundraiser said.

The young girl celebrated her 10th birthday on November 3, and 'instead of celebrating, shes now focused on recoveryphysically, mentally, and emotionally.'

'The days since the accident have been filled with doctor visits, rest, and emotional healing,' the GoFundMe page said. 'While were incredibly thankful that she survived, the road ahead will not be easy.'

Adam is scheduled to appear in court on December 18, according to WISN.
A man who claimed the suspiciously large bulge in his pants was just his penis is now facing 20 years in prison after the bizarre truth was revealed.

Jesse Agus Martinez, 35, was stopped by Customs and Border Protection agents at the Mexico-US border on October 23 when guards noticed a bulge in the groin area of his trousers.

The American man claimed it was just his penis, but upon further inspection, agents found two small brown bags hidden in the man's underwear.

Inside the bags were two rare orange-fronted parakeets. They were both unconscious according to a United States Attorney's Office Southern District of California press release.

The green birds, which are considered critically endangered by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature, were found breathing but heavily sedated.

Martinez, who said he hid the birds because he did not have the correct paperwork to bring them into the United States, claimed that the birds were his pets, which he got from his uncle in Mexico, and that he planned to 'keep them in a shoe box in his van,' according to court records.

On Friday, Martinez, who lives in Tijuana, Mexico, was indicted on a federal smuggling charge after authorities claimed he attempted to take the heavily drugged birds across the border.

If convicted, he could be find up to 191,000 ($250,000) and face a maximum of 20 years behind bars.

Jesse Agus Martinez, 35, was stopped by Customs and Border Protection agents at the Mexico-US border on October 23 when guards noticed a suspicious bulge in the groin area of his trousers

Inside the bags were two rare orange-fronted parakeets. They were both unconscious according to a United States Attorney's Office Southern District of California press release

The parakeets were initially treated by veterinarians before being quarantined, and they are now said to be in a stable condition.

The US Fish and Wildlife Service is now investigating the incident.

Martinez said he tried to bring a bird into the country in September, but was caught by customs officers and it was confiscated.

Court records said he had a parrot concealed in a towel under his arm and that, according to documents, it was 'subsequently euthanised.'

Orange-fronted parakeets, whose scientific name is Eupsittula canicularis, are listed as 'vulnerable' on the Red List of Threatened Species of the International Union for Conservation of Nature and Natural Resources, the most comprehensive global catalog of the status of animal and plant species.

The pet trade poses the greatest threat to the birds, according to the group, which notes that, between 1998 and 2008, more than 8,000 birds were legally captured, making it the second-most sought-out parrot species in Mexico.

The parakeets were initially treated by veterinarians before being quarantined, and they are now said to be in a stable condition

The country banned the parrot trade in 2008, but 'illegal capturing is still ongoing in Mexico, albeit decreasing in recent years.'

The birds are also threated by habitat loss and degradation, according to the group.

Imported wildlife must be quarantined before it can be introduced to the country, the US attorneys office said, noting that many animals have diseases, like bird flu, that can infect humans or other animals.
A United Airlines flight was forced to abort a 16-hour flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong after smoke billowed from the aircraft and a foul odor filled the cabin.

The 'burning smell' interrupted UA 869 flight carrying 336 passengers on Tuesday afternoon shortly after takeoff, as panicked passengers said they saw smoke billowing from their windows.

A United spokesperson told Business Insider that the smell emanated throughout the aircraft, and the pilot had no choice but to return to the terminal.

'The flight taxied to the gate where emergency personnel met the aircraft,' the spokesperson said.

The airline said passengers were taken to Hong Kong on a separate aircraft later on Tuesday evening.

Flight data showed the aircraft was delayed by over 90 minutes before it took off from San Francisco around 1:15pm, and it flew for just one hour before turning around.

Vincent Goh, a passenger on the plane, told the outlet that he saw smoke coming from the side of the aircraft from his window, sparking panic on board.

He said the pilot told passengers that he was returning because he smelled smoke, and that fire crews were waiting for them on the runway.

A United Airlines flight (seen in a stock image) was forced to abort a 16-hour flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong after smoke billowed from the aircraft and a foul odor filled the cabin

Passengers said they could see smoke from their windows from inside the American Airlines aircraft (a stock image is seen)

The 'burning smell' interrupted UA 869 flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong carrying 336 passengers on Tuesday afternoon just an hour after takeoff

The incident came as America's airspace re-opened this week following the longest government shutdown in US history, which meant many air traffic controllers were laid off or went unpaid for weeks.

The Federal Aviation Administration lifted all restrictions on commercial flights on November 16, which were imposed at 40 major airports across the nation.

Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised President Trump as the restrictions were lifted, even as polls show many Americans blamed him for the lengthy standoff in Congress.

'Thanks to President Trump's leadership, controllers have returned to their posts and normal operations can resume,' Duffy said.

The incident came as America's airspace re-opened this week following the longest government shutdown in US history, after which Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy praised President Trump for opening the nation's airspace

'I want to thank the FAA's dedicated safety team for keeping our skies secure during the longest government shutdown in our nation's history and the country's patience for putting safety first.'

'Now we can refocus our efforts on surging controller hiring and building the brand new, state-of-the-art air traffic control system the American people deserve,' Duffy added.

The restrictions had been in place since November 7 and impacted thousands of flights across the country, as the FAA cited staffing shortages among air traffic controllers.

Impacted airports included large hubs in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and Atlanta.

'Today's decision to rescind the order reflects the steady decline in staffing concerns across the NAS and allows us to return to normal operations,' FAA Administrator Bryan Bedford said at the time.

'I am grateful for the hard work of the FAA safety and operations teams and for their focus on the safety of the traveling public.'
It's a legal battle truly out of this world.

What began as a bitter breakup exploded into global headlines when a former intelligence officer accused her astronaut wife of 'the first crime in outer space.'

Summer Worden, 50, claimed NASA's Anne McClain, 46, illegally accessed her bank account while on the International Space Station in 2019.

Now, court documents seen by the Daily Mail show how their marriage came crashing down amid allegations of abuse.

McClain, speaking for the first time since Worden admitted the whole thing was an elaborate lie in court, also told the Mail of her relief at finally being vindicated after years of false claims.

McClain married Worden, a former Air Force intelligence officer who worked for the NSA, in 2014. But by 2018 the couple were having problems.

That year, arrest documents seen by the Daily Mail show McClain accused Worden of 'turning physical' in front of Worden's six-year-old son from a previous relationship.

Worden was accused of grabbing her wife's wrists, throwing her on to their bed and pinning her down as she tried to snatch her phone from her hands, the court documents said.

The case was dismissed with a no-contact order instated, and court documents show McClain personally requested the case not be prosecuted.

NASA astronaut Anne McClain says her ex-wife's false claims that she committed the 'first crime in outer space' stemmed from a bitter custody dispute over their son (seen together) that 'traumatized' her while she led voyages to the International Space Station

McClain, 46, (right) told the Daily Mail that her ex-wife Summer Heather Worden, 50, (left) tried to set her up by alleging she had illegally accessed her bank account from the ISS in 2019

McClain wanted to allow Worden to care for their son while she was deployed to the ISS for the first time in 2019.

Worden was not criminally convicted, and denies the allegations.

McClain was first selected to join NASA in 2013 at the age of 34, following a distinguished military career.

She graduated from the prestigious US Military Academy at West Point and flew more than 800 combat hours in Operation Iraqi Freedom.

Her first trip to the ISS came in 2019 on the Expedition 58/59. It was on this trip that she was falsely accused of hacking into her ex-wife's bank account.

She most recently served as commander of NASA's SpaceX Crew-10 mission in March, and she returned to Earth in August.

A source close to the couple told the Daily Mail that McClain did not have custody over their son at the time of the alleged assault in 2018, but had a 'non-managing conservatorship' because the couple lived in separate cities.

Before McClain's first ISS mission, the source said the alleged assault erupted during a dispute in which Worden sought to end the conservatorship.

The insider said the NASA astronaut was 'devastated' by the alleged attack, which a police report said was witnessed by their young son.

McClain first commanded the ISS in 2019, but was hit with false allegations from her ex-wife on Earth that she had 'illegally accessed' her bank account from the space station while they were locked in a bitter divorce

McClain seen being picked up by NASA ground personnel in Kazakhstan when she returned to Earth in 2019, following her ISS voyage where she accessed her ex-wife's bank account

The NASA astronaut said she feels vindicated by her ex-wife pleading guilty to lying to law enforcement over her claims that McClain committed the first ever 'crime in space'

They alleged that subsequent claims by Worden that McClain was looking for full-custody were 'not true', and were perceived as an effort to gain sympathy when the allegations made headlines.

Last week, Worden pleaded guilty to lying to law enforcement in Texas court, and faces up to five years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine for her allegations that McClain broke into her finances from space, alongside claims she swindled real estate investors in a separate scheme.

The US Attorney's Office for the Southern District of Texas said Worden admitted to lying about the plot and confirmed the couple had joint access to the account since at least 2015.

Worden's allegations also prompted an investigation by NASA's inspector general and the Federal Trade Commission, despite no money ever being removed from the account. Prosecutors said Worden knowingly misled law enforcement about her claims.

Prosecutors said Worden had granted access to their account for years, and said she admitted to lying to law enforcement over her claims that McClain illegally broke into her finances.

Following Worden's guilty plea, McClain told the Daily Mail she was relieved the claims that she was the world's first space criminal were proven false, and 'the public record finally reflects what we knew to be true all along.'

McClain was first selected to join NASA in 2013 at the age of 34, following a distinguished military career, which included graduating from West Point and flying more than 800 combat hours in Operation Iraqi Freedom

She said her ex-wife 'intentionally, and with full knowledge of the truth, presented a story to federal investigators and to the media with the intention of harm.'

'From the outset, there was no evidence supporting her claims, and overwhelming evidence disproving them,' she continued in a statement, saying the 'space crime' claims still 'linger' around her name today.

Worden 'was given a platform not because she had earned credibility, but because I hadand that imbalance was exploited,' she said.

'This caused very real trauma to very real people, and the damage does not simply disappear when the truth finally surfaces.

'I hope this moment reminds all of us that in today's social-media age, sensational claims can outrun the truth in seconds.

'When the most damaging narratives are rewarded, the human cost is far too often forgotten. We can, and must, do better.'

Worden is scheduled to be sentenced in February 2026 and faces up to five years in prison for lying to law enforcement.
A Kansas City lawmaker is waging war on the ATV-filled streets of the beleaguered city with a new proposal aimed at seizing and destroying the vehicles.

Council member Crispin Rea has pushed forward a proposal that would allow officials in the Missouri city to clean up the streets that have become a byword for illegal street racing and sideshows.

In a statement, Rea said that his proposal would allow citizens to actually feel safe while walking the streets, with officials able to destroy the vehicles used.

He said: 'This resolution would include an item on that agenda to change state law so that we can dispose of ATVs and motorbikes that are used in the dangerous ways which weve seen time after time  rather than put them up for auction and continue the churn.

'Every resident, driver, rider, and pedestrian deserves safe streets', with his proposal set to be reviewed next month before reaching the city council.

If approved by city lawmakers, the proposal would then make its way up to the state General Assembly in January to change state laws.

As recently as last week, the Kansas City Police Department shut down a sideshow in the downtown area of the city, arresting five, Fox4 reported.

According to police officials, nine vehicles performing stunts on the streets were towed away after blocking traffic and running red lights.

Council member Crispin Rea, seen here, has pushed forward a proposal that would allow officials in the Missouri city to clean up the streets

Individuals on a dirt bike and an ATV are seen here carelessly popping wheelies in the downtown area of the city earlier this year

In April, a police officer was knocked over by an ATV, with prosecutors saying Kendall Coleman, 28, was the one behind the wheel of the vehicle at the time.

An officer attempted to haul a tire deflation device at the vehicle, with the ultimate goal of apprehending the driver once the ATV was stationary.

However, the driver reversed, popped the ATV into a wheelie, and lifted its front tires off the ground - striking the officer in the process - before driving over him and fleeing the scene.

The Kansas City Police Department confirmed that the officer has since made a full recovery.

Coleman's lawyer, Chris Scott, told KMBC this week that Rea's proposal was a bad move.

He said that frequently the vehicles used are own by more than one person or a lender, with individuals making monthly payments on them.

'This seems like an easier process for the city of the government to skirt the civil forfeiture process and just take somebody's property without any form of due process at all', he told the outlet.

A new law has already been implemented that has increased penalties given to those for repeat offenses.

Downtown Kansas City has become a hotspot for illegal street racing and reckless ATV and dirt bike riders tearing through the neighborhoods, leaving locals afraid to step outside after dark

Frustrated business owners earlier this year said they were deciding whether to up sticks and leave the area

In May, frustrated business owners and locals voiced their anger at city officials for seemingly abandoning the area and allowing it to be overrun.

'This isn't a race issue, this isn't a political issue, this is a safety issue,' David Lopez, a local business owner, told Fox News, noting how chaos right outside is a constant occurrence, posing extreme danger for the surrounding community.

'I feel as though this city is about unsafe as it's been since my family has been at 207 Southwest Boulevard, and that's 45 years this September,' he added.

'When things out of your control start to chip away at the very foundation of what you've done for four generations, it hurts.'

Mayor Quinton Lucas previously took aim at those responsible for orchestrating the street racing.

He told the Daily Mail: 'We need to make sure that there are real consequences for those who are engaging in reckless and foolish behavior in downtown Kansas City and all around our community.

'I think we need serious enforcement for all of them, and I think that's what we will continue to see.'
A California executive assistant has admitted in federal court that she quietly diverted more than $8.5million from her boss's companies and used the cash to fund a high-end lifestyle in San Diego.

Ping 'Jenny' Gao, 55, of Point Loma, pleaded guilty last Thursday to wire fraud and money laundering, according to the US Department of Justice.

Prosecutors said Gao systematically drained four corporate bank accounts tied to her employer, moving the money into accounts she secretly opened in her own name.

She then splurged on a $160,000 Porsche and a $2.9million waterfront home with sweeping views of San Diego Bay and the downtown skyline.

In her plea agreement, Gao admitted using the stolen money to buy the luxury car and multimillion-dollar home, and acknowledged moving more than $1million into her personal accounts.

She also confessed to burning through hundreds of thousands of dollars at upscale fashion stores.

The scheme began to unravel when her employer noticed the missing money and sued her in San Diego Superior Court.

Instead of admitting wrongdoing, Gao doubled down. She claimed the plaintiff was a fraud and insisting the real owner of the companies in China had approved every transfer.

Ping Jenny Gao, 55, admitted in federal court to stealing more than $8.5million from her employer and using the money to bankroll a lavish lifestyle in San Diego

The Point Loma executive assistant faces up to 50 years in prison after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money laundering

To support that false narrative, prosecutors said she paid more than $100,000 to individuals in China to produce fake documents, which she then filed in court to fight a preliminary injunction.

She later admitted that she lied under oath during a deposition, falsely telling lawyers that the corporate accounts were actually her own.

When the case went to trial in September 2023, she took the stand again and repeated the falsehoods, claiming the funds came from her personal investments in China and that a company manager was merely helping her move money into the US through 'underground banks' to dodge Chinese currency controls.

Throughout the civil case, the Superior Court issued a series of orders barring Gao from spending, moving or dissipating the disputed funds.

According to prosecutors, she ignored them.

Even with those restrictions in place, Gao continued to push money overseas - including a $1.6million wire transfer to a bank account in Hong Kong.

After she lost the trial and the court's preliminary injunction was made permanent, she still carried on unloading assets.

She sold the $160,000 Porsche to CarMax for $75,000, then turned a $70,000 cashier's check from that sale into cash by swapping it with another individual, in direct violation of the court's orders, prosecutors said.

Authorities estimate that more than $3.29million of the stolen money has either been blown or remains unaccounted for.

Gao splurged on a $160,000 Porsche and a $2.9million waterfront home overlooking San Diego Bay after siphoning funds from four corporate accounts

Gao entered her guilty plea on November 13, but news of the case was released later due to the federal government's lapse in appropriations.

At sentencing, she faces a maximum of 30 years in prison on the wire fraud charge and an additional 20 years for concealment money laundering, along with fines totaling more than $500,000.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant US Attorney Patrick C. Swan.

The Daily Mail has contacted the Department of Justice's director of media relations for comment.
GRAPHIC CONTENT WARNING

A Florida man who allegedly murdered a suicidal British woman was involved in a love triangle with her and his own wife, according to an arrest affidavit.

Sonia Exelby, 32, was reported missing by her loved ones in the UK after arriving in Gainsville, Florida, in search of a violent death last month.

Days later, her body was found in a shallow grave. Dwain Hall, 53, has now been accused of abusing and murdering Exelby inside an Airbnb cabin before dumping her body.

In an arrest affidavit seen by the Daily Mail, Hall told investigators he and Exelby had sexual intercourse inside the rental in Reddick prior to her death.

According to Hall, it was Exelby who initiated the interaction, and he had not wanted to have sex because he did not want to 'feel bad about his wife,' Ginger Stein.

His Marion County jail intake form indicates that Hall is legally single, however he referred to Stein as his wife throughout his interview with detectives.

Social media posts indicate they have been together since at least 2014. The couple have been pictured together with two children on multiple occasions.

Sonia Exelby (pictured) was reported missing by her loved ones in the UK after arriving in the US to seek out a violent death

Dwain Hall (right, pictured with his partner Ginger Stein) told officers he had sexual intercourse with Exelby prior to her death

Stein was described in the document as being ill, pictures show her constantly wearing an oxygen tube, sometimes with a loaded gun near her.

Hall told investigators that while he loved his wife, he engaged in sexual activity with Exelby anyway. He described the intercourse as 'vanilla'.

The affidavit also pointed to their interactions online dating back to 2023 when they first met on a fetish site.

Hall said they discussed bondage, suicide and Exelby's desire to have someone kill her on the site.

The affidavit also detailed a message Exelby sent to an unnamed individual through private messaging app Discord.

The message was dated October 11, the day after she arrived in the US, and was described by officers as 'long and at times disjointed'.

It appeared to show Exelby saying that Hall was refusing to let her go unless she killed him.

Police say it also displays a reluctance to go through with her original suicide-by-murder plan.

It said: 'I'm sorry he keeps taking my phone, he doesn't trust me with it. He made it clear there was no way out unless I shoot him.

'I was questioning it last night. I can't kill anyone', adding that the night previous was 'so bad'.

She continued: 'He's in the shower but I'm locked in and there is no singal [sic] in the middle of nowhere.

Social media posts indicate Stein and Hall (pictured) have been together since at least 2014

Hall is accused of abusing and murdering Exelby inside this Airbnb cabin (pictured) before dumping her body in a shallow grave

Stein is pictured here rigged up to an oxygen system with a handgun and its clip sitting in front of her, a young child holds onto her arm

'I thought he'd do it quick and not give my mind time to stew and realize this is the last thing I'll ever day [sic] to anyone if I don't take his offer of shooting him. He showed me how to use it and where to aim.

The message ended with Exelby saying, 'I'm so scared I'm so broken and in so much pain all I can do is lay here and doing what gee [sic] wants.

'Makes him respect me enough not to do the things I really hate. Everything but some are.

'I'm sorry I don't even know what I'm saying and I'm trying to be quick and my times up.'

Exelby also said that the person she was with, believed to be Hall, made her record three disclaimer videos and write a letter to her family because he thought it was 'funny.'

Hall (pictured) told officers that he suffered from 'violent tendencies'

A raid on the Airbnb after her disappearance uncovered receipts that indicated Hall had purchased paracord, gun cleaner, 50 feet of rope and a shovel on October 10.

During his police interview, Hall told investigators that he previously had violent tendencies and discussed helping Exelby carry out her morbid plans.

According to Hall, he told Exelby that he had no interest in any of it after Stein fell ill, claiming she got sick in August and that his violent tendencies 'went away'.

When investigators asked what he would say to Exelby's family, he replied that he would tell them the last time he saw her, she was happy.

Hall backtracked on his story twice, according to the affidavit.

What's more, he is said to have claimed that he and Exelby fabricated a cover story, before telling police that an agreement involving $4,000 was struck between the two.

According to the affidavit, Hall told police that Exelby had offered to help him pay off an IRS debt, but she arrived in Florida without the money, which upset him. He managed to raid $1,200 from her UK bank account.

Per a four-minute video taken inside the Airbnb and found on Hall's phone, officers said Exelby told Hall that she wanted to be stabbed to death.

An autopsy conducted on Exelby's remains, which were exhumed from a shallow grave in a wooded area, determined she died from four sharp force injuries.

DNA evidence found on a knife that Hall mailed to a friend out of state in Ohio indicated that the seven inch Tanto blade was used to kill Exelby, police said.

Hall is facing charges of first-degree murder, kidnapping, credit card fraud and unlawful use of a communication device.

He has pleaded not guilty and demanded a jury trial in the case. The Daily Mail has contacted Stein for comment.
A Connecticut woman has confessed to supplying an 11-year-old boy with caffeine so she could sexually assault him late at night.

Alyson Cranick, 44, pleaded guilty to federal charges of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity on Tuesday, according to the US Attorney's Office.

During the summer and fall of 2022, prosecutors said Cranick used text messages, Snapchat and Discord to coerce the young boy 'to engage in sexually explicit conduct with her.'

Cranick convinced the victim to sneak out of his house late at night and provided him with caffeinated beverages to keep him awake while she sexually assaulted him, according to court documents obtained by the Hartford Courant.

Police said she would drive the boy to several locations, including Horace Porter School - a pre-K through eighth-grade school - and abused him in her car on at least 14 occasions.

She also allegedly offered to buy him Apple AirPods and a gun that fires plastic pellets, according to the documents.

Cranick was charged by state prosecutors in 2023 when the boy told police the two 'had sexual intercourse in her vehicle' after he 'snuck out of his house' during the night.

She was let out on bond, but then arrested again after being accused of violating the conditions of her release by contacting a 13-year-old girl on Snapchat, CT Insider reported.

Alyson Cranick, 44, pleaded guilty to federal charges accusing her of supplying an 11-year-old boy with caffeine so she could sexually assault him late at night

During the summer and fall of 2022, prosecutors said Cranick used text messages, Snapchat and Discord to coerce the young boy

Federal prosecutors picked up the case in 2024 when investigators discovered Cranick used Discord to exchange more than 4,700 messages with the young boy between July and October 2022.

The boy told police they switched their communications to Discord after finding out that a family member was going to check the messages on his phone.

According to school officials, Cranick was a paraprofessional in the Columbia school district and was most recently an administrative assistant at E.O. Smith High School in Mansfield.

She was later fired from the high school after the state finished the investigation.

In a statement released by the Columbia School District, Interim Superintendent Barbara Wilson said: 'It is with great regret that I must share this information with you today. As educators, we are entrusted to protect and educate all of our students.'

'Maintaining appropriate faculty-student relationships and providing for the safety and well-being of our students at all times are critical.'

Cranick was a married mother of two who frequently posted pictures of her son and daughter on social media. Her marital status is unclear.

Cranick was charged by state prosecutors in 2023, but was quickly re-arrested after she broke the conditions of her release by allegedly messaging a young girl on Snapchat

Cranick was married mother of two who frequently posted pictures on social media. Her martial status is unclear. She also worked as a paraprofessional and administrative assistant in the school system

Her federal sentencing is scheduled for February 12 and she faces up to life in prison with a minimum of 10 years behind bars.

Cranick's state-level charges are still pending and her next hearing is scheduled for December 19.

The Daily Mail has contacted the State's Attorney's Office for comment.
Larry Summers opened his Harvard class by admitting shame over his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein after his emails with the pedophile were made public.

In a video recorded by a student inside the lecture theater on Tuesday, Summers spoke candidly about the controversy, which has intensified in recent days.

Summers, a former US Treasury Secretary, recently resigned from the OpenAI board, and Harvard announced it is investigating his connections to Epstein.

The 70-year-old addressed the room at the beginning of the his class, The Political Economy of Globalization, saying: 'Some of you will have seen my statement of regret, expressing my shame, with respect to what I did in communication with Mr. Epstein.

'I said I'm going to step back from public activities for awhile, but I think its very important to fulfill my teaching obligations and so with your permission I'm going to go forward and talk about the material.'

The caption of the TikTok read: 'And in the emails released he was asking Epstein for advice on a young woman he was coercing just gross.'

Summers' remarks come after a House committee released emails last week revealing years of personal correspondence with Epstein - which included him getting sex and love advice from the pedophile, who was his 'wingman.'

The disturbing emails include Summers seeking Epstein's advice on courting a younger woman while he was married.

Larry Summers opened his Harvard class by addressing his past ties to Jeffrey Epstein

Summers also resigned from the OpenAI board this week, citing his decision to step away from public commitments

In email exchanges dated between 2013 and 2019, Summers and Epstein frequently shared their thoughts about current events and politics - while also delving into the married economics professor's love life. (Pictured: Epstein smiling at Summers, pictured front right)

Summers exchanged emails with Epstein as late as July 5, 2019, just one day before Epstein was arrested on federal sex-trafficking charges.

In email exchanges dated between 2013 and 2019, Summers and Epstein frequently shared their thoughts about current events and politics - while also delving into the married economics professor's love life.

Harvard, where Summers is a professor and former president, has since launched an investigation into his relationship with Epstein.

Epstein never attended Harvard as a student and did not hold a college degree, having enrolled at Cooper Union and New York University but leaving both without graduating.

However, through six figure donations and the backing of several faculty members, he earned special treatment, including his own desk, phone line, and a fellowship position in psychology he was eventually deemed underqualified for - even after the sex offender allegations emerged.

The emails reveal that Summers complained to the now-disgraced financier about feeling like 'the friend without benefits' in his relationship with one woman who jilted him in 2019, and asked him for tips on how to reply to her texts.

This was long after Epstein's guilty plea to sex crimes against children in 2008 - and Harvard had already stopped accepting donations from him the previous year in light of the allegations.

The emails have prompted Senator Elizabeth Warren to urge Harvard to cut ties with Summers, who is the Ivy League schools' former president.

Professor Summers served as Secretary of the Treasury under Bill Clinton and as director of the National Economic Council under President Barack Obama. He has also advised Joe Biden's presidential campaign.

Warren told CNN she believes Summers 'cannot be trusted' with young college students given his lengthy friendship with Epstein.

The House Oversight Committee released a vast tranche of Epstein emails last week, including several sent by one of Harvard's most distinguished professors Larry Summers (pictured)

Harvard has launched an investigation into Summers

Jeffrey Epstein, who died in jail in 2019, exchanged emails with Summers up until the day before his arrest on sex-trafficking charges

Summers is married to Elisa New, who is a professor emerita of American Literature at Harvard. It's unclear whether they have an open relationship or if he was cheating on his partner of now-20 years.

In one March 2019 email, Summers complained to Epstein that he was concerned that the attention he was giving one woman may not pay off in the form of sexual reward.

'I dint (sic) want to be in a gift giving competition while being the friend without benefits,' he wrote.

Summers analyzed his exchange with the woman in classic economic terms, by weighing up how he could maximize profit from what he gave.

Epstein praised the hopeless professor for his efforts, writing that his lack of 'whining' to the woman 'showed strength'.

The economics professor then whined that the woman had abandoned plans with him for another man she was 'really attracted' to but was 'unsuitable as a partner'.

He told Epstein he could not criticize her for this due to their power dynamic, and because he had canceled on her thanks to 'family and work constraints' in the past.

'Should I just wait for her to call?' he asked the sex offender, while suggesting that he could alternatively tell the woman she had 'used up 80 percent of what she was owed' by making him change his plans.

Epstein also referred to himself in some emails as Summers' 'wingman', according to the Harvard Crimson.

Summers analyzed his exchange with the woman in classic economic terms, by weighing up how he could maximize profit from what he gave in the exchange with Epstein

In November 2018, Summers also forwarded an email from a woman to Epstein in order to ask his advice on what he should write back.

'Think no response for a while probably appropriate,' Summers wrote, according to CNN.

'she's already beginning to sound needy :) nice,' Epstein replied in part.

The previous year, in October 2017, Summers raged to Epstein that men could be banned from a social media site or a think tank because 'they hit on a few women 10 years ago'.

Summers told The Harvard Crimson on Wednesday that he regretted his friendship with Epstein.

'I have great regrets in my life. As I have said before, my association with Jeffrey Epstein was a major error of judgment,' he said.

This week, he also stepped down from his role at OpenAI.

OpenAI's board said in its own statement: 'Larry has decided to resign from the OpenAI Board of Directors, and we respect his decision. We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to Summers for comment.
Serial rapist David Carrick could have been stopped earlier if a confession letter he penned more than three decades ago had been discovered earlier.

The former Met Police officer was today convicted at the Old Bailey of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old schoolgirl in the 1980s and raping a former partner.

The 50-year-old had written a note, dated August 29, 1990, in which he admitted to molesting the girl.

In it, he said she was 'not crazy' and it was 'true' but 'I stopped about four months ago'. He signed the letter 'Dave', and it was filed in Carrick's medical records.

It was found two years ago after he was jailed for 30 years when he admitted to 85 rapes and serious assaults against a dozen women.

At the time the note was written Carrick was a teenager, but he grew up to become one of Britain's most notorious sexual predators, who hid behind his job as an armed Met Police officer for years.

He had written the letter after the girl told her mother what was going on, but no further action was taken and the matter was 'brushed under the carpet', according to the victim.

Serial rapist David Carrick wrote a confession letter (pictured) in 1990 where he admitted to attacking a schoolgirl but it lay undiscovered for more than three decades

The former Met Police officer was today convicted at the Old Bailey of sexually assaulting a 12-year-old schoolgirl in the 1980s and raping a former partner

Carrick wrote: 'I know how (the girl) must feel. That's why I stopped and promised I would never go near her again and I have kept that promise and I always will.'

He offered to go away and never be seen again, adding: 'Sorry to you and especially sorry to (the girl) but she does not have to worry ever again. Please do not try to talk about it.'

Superintendent Iain Moor, who led the Hertfordshire Police investigation, spoke after Carrick's conviction and suggested that the future would have been 'very different' had his offending been picked up in 1990.

He said: 'It's very difficult to apply today's standards back to the 1990s. Obviously, we have multi-agency safeguarding hubs now.

'We have mechanisms for reports to come in from GPs, from medical professionals.

'But I think had something occurred and the police became aware back in 1990, then it is possible that the offending could have been picked up at that point and then the future looks very different.

'It's difficult to say exactly what that path would be, but I'm sure it'd be different to the one that we have today.'

In February 2023, Carrick was handed 36 life sentences with a minimum term of 32 years after he pleaded guilty to 71 sexual offences against 12 women, including 48 rapes.

Describing the second investigation that followed, Mr Moor said: 'We made an appeal after the first case to see if there were other victims out there. It was my belief there were other victims out there.

'One of these cases we were already aware of from the first investigation, and the other victim then came forward after some news was published as well.

'I just commend their bravery in coming forward. Obviously David Carrick received 36 life sentences and he's going to be in prison for a long period of time.

'It takes huge courage for a victim of an offence such as these to come forward.'

He said it was important that justice was done for the two women at the heart of the second prosecution.

At the time the note was written, Carrick was a teenager, but he grew up to become one of Britain's most notorious sexual predators, who hid behind his job as an armed Met Police officer

'From a criminal justice point of view, it's important that he's convicted of the offences.

'But as we know, when somebody gets a sentence such as his, it's always a question, do we bring a further prosecution?

'In this case, it's absolutely the right thing to do, so the victims' voices are heard, and I hope that it would give them some type of closure and help them on their journey to recovery.'

On whether there were any other missed opportunities to stop Carrick sooner, Mr Moor said: 'There have been some times when there were potential opportunities.

'Some of those are still subject to investigation so it's very difficult to comment on those.'

The senior officer said that the 1990 case put Carrick's offending in a new light, given the victim's young age, and expanded the timespan from 17 years to some 30 years.

On Wednesday, Carrick was found guilty of five charges of indecent assault against the child and two charges of rape, one sexual assault and controlling and coercive behaviour towards a former partner.

Mr Moor said he believed there could be more victims who have yet to come forward.

He said: 'There are varying reasons why people might not be ready to come forward and we fully respect those.

'But if there are people out there, we would urge them to come forward and we would investigate their offences.'

Carrick's trial at the Old Bailey heard he would hold his hand over the schoolgirl's mouth to stop her screaming as he abused her  sometimes twice a week - over an 18-month period.

On one occasion he is said to have 'trapped' her between a chair and a sofa to abuse her.

The girl told her mother that Carrick was abusing her when she was 14 and he admitted the attacks in a letter that was later recovered from his medical records. 'I know how (the girl) must feel.

'That's why I stopped and promised I would never go near her again and I have kept that promise and I always will,' he wrote at the time.

'Sorry to you and especially sorry to (the girl) but she does not have to worry ever again. Please do not try to talk about it.'

A court artist's drawing of Carrick during an appearance at the Old Bailey. He bowed his head but showed no emotion as the jury forewoman delivered the verdicts

The victim told Carrick's trial: 'When I heard he was a Metropolitan Police officer, the words I have always used were: 'God help anyone with him with a warrant card'.'

More than 20 years later he met the woman via a dating app then pinned her down when she asked him to stop having sex, telling her 'you are not going anywhere,' Tom Little KC, prosecuting, told jurors.

'He then rolled over and apologized and hugged her. She was crying. The defendant then became upset and started crying. They did not talk about it, and they went to sleep.'

The victim was in pain for six weeks afterwards and felt she could not tell anyone what had happened, Mr Little said.

'Given that he was a Met Police officer it may be obvious and understandable that she took the view that at that point she would not be believed.'

The toxic relationship between the couple bore stark similarities with others during which Carrick had already admitted rape and sustained abuse, Mr Little said.

The relationship came to an end after a fight spilled out onto the street in September 2019 when the woman refused to get naked and wait in Carrick's bed.

'They were on the stairs, he grabbed her hair and tried to pull her down the stairs, she fought back trying to get him off,' Mr Little said.

'At one stage she was holding onto the banister, which got broken. The neighbours came out and separated them and then police arrived.'

Hertfordshire Police answered the call to Carrick's home in Stevenage and referred the report to Carrick's force  but he was given no misconduct case to answer and the incident was not properly investigated.

The officer was simply given 'words of advice in relation to informing his chain of command about off duty incidents.'

This episode was one of nine occasions since 2000 that Carrick was reported to the police.

Despite this, he maintained a job in the parliamentary protection unit of Britains biggest police force and abused his position to coerce his terrified victims in a campaign of sexual abuse.

The scandal rocked British policing and led to the Met urgently probing more than 1,000 of its own officers who had faced complaints of domestic abuse or sexual offending over the past decade.

Carrick declined to give evidence in his trial but when he was interviewed in November 2023 said the schoolgirl was a liar and claimed that no sexual abuse occurred.

And he insisted that all sexual activity with the woman was consensual.

He was convicted of five counts of sexual assault relating to the girl in 1989 and 1990 and two charges of rape, one of sexual assault and coercive and controlling behaviour towards the woman between 2014 and 2019.

Carrick bowed his head but showed no emotion as the jury forewoman delivered the verdicts.

Carrick joined the Met in 2001 despite the fact that he had been investigated the previous year on suspicion of breaking into an ex-partner's home and stealing her underwear.

The first rape he committed as a police officer for which he was later convicted took place in 2003.
American rapper Nicki Minaj has raised global attention to alleged Christian persecution in Nigeria, calling for urgent international action during a United Nations event hosted by United States Ambassador, Mike Waltz, on Tuesday.

Minaj, who has repeatedly commented on the issue in recent months, said she was invited after her posts on X drew the attention of the U.S. diplomat.

She began by thanking former U.S. President Donald Trump for prioritizing the issue.

Minaj said music had shown her the power of unity across cultures and beliefs, adding that religious freedom should allow everyone to sing our faith.

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She warned that faith was "under attack in way too many places."

She said, "I would like to thank President Trump for prioritizing this issue and his leadership on the global stage in calling for urgent action to defend Christians in Nigeria and to combat extremism and to bring a stop to violence against those who simply want to express their natural right to freedom of religion or belief.

"In Nigeria, Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes and killed. Churches have been burned, families have been torn apart and entire communities live in fear constantly simply because of how they pray," she said, stressing that the crisis demands urgent action.

Minaj insisted her position was not political or divisive.

"I want to be clear, protecting Christians in Nigeria is not about taking sides or dividing people. It is about uniting humanity."

Concluding her remarks, she added: "I want to make it clear once again, this isn't about taking sides. This is about standing up in the face of injustice. It's about what I've always stood for my entire career and I will continue to stand for that for the rest of my life."

Her comments follow Trump's recent designation of Nigeria as a future addition to the list of Countries of Particular Concern.

The former president warned that the U.S. would immediately stop all aid and assistance to Nigeria and could intervene militarily if attacks on Christians continued.

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A British architect who claimed the Dubai government stole his eco-design and tried to lock him up has been cleared of all criminal charges following a 16-month 'living nightmare'.

Baharash Bagherian, 43, said the emirate's landmark plans for a man-made reef, revealed at Cop28 in 2023, were based on his own idea.

The award-winning architect and founder of URB, who moved to Britain from Iran aged 12, unveiled Dubai Reefs in May 2023 to global acclaim.

The remarkable concept was set to be the world's largest artificial reef and have ocean restoration at its heart, with exciting plans drawn up to turn it into a marine biology site.

It was also hoped the project could become a key attraction to boost Dubai's blossoming tourism industry.

But Mr Bagherian never received a call back from authorities, he claims, and only found out the emirate was pushing on with the proposals when they were announced in front of the watching world.

Dubai showed off plans for an innovative reef concept, titled Dubai Reef, at the climate event it was hosting, complete with a detailed press release and social media posts.

And, according to Mr Bagherian, the images paraded to an impressed audience were simply flipped and cropped versions of his own work and there was no mention of him or his company, URB.

British architect Baharash Bagherian, who claimed the Dubai government stole his eco-design and tried to lock him up, has been cleared of all criminal charges following a 'living nightmare'

He said the emirate's landmark plans for a man-made reef, revealed at Cop28 in 2023, were based on his own idea, pictured

When the award-winning architect attempted to raise the issue privately with government ministers, he found himself facing sudden criminal allegations, police interrogations, and fraud charges.

He was released on bail and placed under a travel ban that prevented him from leaving the UAE for 16 months.

The criminal case barred him from travelling, attending family funerals, and carrying out major international commitments.

A court-approved intellectual property expert reviewed the dispute and issued a 428-page report concluding 'without any reasonable doubt' that there was 'clear and blatant evidence of the deliberate theft and unlawful appropriation' of Bagherian's intellectual property by authorities affiliated with the Government of Dubai.

The expert wrote: 'The scale and sophistication of this appropriation demonstrates a clear intent to appropriate URB's vision, assets and identity.

'The government's actions have caused serious and irreversible damage to URB's reputation.'

The remarkable project was to be the world's largest artificial reef and have ocean restoration at its heart, with exciting plans drawn up to turn it into a marine biology site

He added that the allegation 'were unfounded' while the travel ban was 'unjustly imposed'

'The damage to Mr Bagherian strikes at the heart of his professional integrity and personal dignity,' the expert concluded.

Speaking after he was cleared of all the charges, the architect said the last year had been 'one of the most profoundly challenging experiences of my life.'

He added: 'For 16 months, I lived under restrictions, interrogations, threats, and fear of imprisonment, all because I tried to protect my intellectual property.

'The system should have protected me, yet it was used against me in ways I could never have imagined.

'Clearing my name brings relief, but the toll on my life, my family, and my work has been immense. No one should ever endure this for standing up for the truth.'

Mr Bagherian moved to Britain three decades ago and last lived in Clapham, south London, before winning a competition to develop a net-zero city in Dubai, leading him to the Middle East in 2018.
A bloodied migrant was seen crying during his arrest by ICE as Border Patrol continues its crackdown in North Carolina.

The unnamed man was seen being dragged out of a restaurant that appeared to be under construction by federal agents on Wednesday in Charlotte, a major city in the swing state.

The migrant, dressed in gray jeans, a gray zip-up hoodie and sneakers, could be seen with blood dripping from his face as he looked visibly distressed.

It is unclear where he is from, but the man's arrest comes as federal agents continue on with Operation Charlotte's Web, which specifically targets 'criminal illegal aliens who flocked to the Tar Heel State,' the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) said.

The agency said illegal migrants have made their way into the U.S. state 'because they knew sanctuary politicians would protect them and allow them to roam free on American streets.'

As of Wednesday, 250 migrants have been arrested in the city and 30,000 students were absent from school on Monday, CNN reported.

After the man's arrest, he was seen being escorted out of a building before federal officers handcuffed him, placed a chain around his waist and a white cloth across his face.

The Daily Mail contacted DHS for comment on his arrest.

His arrest was part of Operation Charlotte's Web, which targets 'criminal illegal aliens who flocked to the Tar Heel State'

An unidentified male migrant was arrested in Charlotte, North Carolina by ICE agents on Wednesday as blood streamed down his face

Soon after he was taken into custody, ICE agents descended on a local Home Depot parking lot in The Queen City.

A group of anti-ICE protestors met the officers there as they questioned shoppers outside the home improvement store.

One male activist was seen shouting at Border Patrol agents and filming them while others held up signs that read 'ICE out of Home Depot protect our communities.'

Others, including former Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts, held up signs saying 'We stand with migrants.'

Charlotte's current Mayor Vi Lyles has shared a similar message to residents as she's taken to social media in recent days to speak to the public about the increased presence of ICE agents.

'First and foremost, the rights and constitutional protections of every person in Charlotteregardless of immigration statusmust be upheld,' Lyles post on X Monday.

She added: 'Our city has a long-standing commitment to fairness, dignity, and justice. I am deeply concerned with many of the videos Ive seen, and I urge all agencies operating here to conduct their work with respect for those values.'

Democratic North Carolina Governor Josh Stein echoed Lyles' statement on the matter, stating: 'The vast majority of people they have detained have no criminal convictions, and some are American citizens.'

After being escorted out of a building the man was seen handcuffed, with a chain around his waist and a cloth across this face

Former Charlotte Mayor Jennifer Roberts is seen holding up a sign saying 'We stand with migrants' outside a Home Depot in the city on Wednesday

In a post to X, Stein warned residents of Raleigh, the state's capital, of the possible presence of ICE agents.

'Our office is aware of reports that the Border Patrol is bringing its operation to Raleigh. Once again, I call on federal agents to target violent criminals, not neighbors walking down the street, going to church, or putting up Christmas decorations,' he posted.

'Stop targeting people simply going about their lives because of the color of their skin, as you are doing in Charlotte.'

In addition to North Carolina, President Donald Trump's administration plans to 'surge' Louisiana with Border Patrol agents and armored vehicles in its latest escalation against illegal immigration.

Internal Department of Homeland Security (DHS) documents obtained by CBS News revealed that Border Patrol agents will be deployed to Charlotte before shifting to New Orleans to take a leading role in ICE operations across both cities.

Along with Operation Charlotte's Web, the name of the task force in New Orleans is called Catahoula Crunch - both titles officials chose to reference the childrens novel and Louisianas official state dog, according to the documents.

A male activist is seen shouting and recording a Border Patrol agent at the anti-ICE protest

Armored vehicles - including BearCats - and special-operations agents were requested for both cities.

Several Border Patrol agents who were earlier sent to Chicago, among them outspoken commander Gregory Bovino, are now expected to join the operation, two US officials told CBS.

Bovino has taken charge of operations in both Chicago and Los Angeles in recent months, where high-visibility and controversial federal arrests have fueled protests across the country.

'The use of force that I've seen has been exemplary - the least amount of force necessary to accomplish the mission' the commander told the outlet last month.
THE mother of a young schoolgirl who died after taking unwell at the weekend has paid tribute to her gorgeous loving angel saying we will never get over you not being here.

Olivia Curley passed away at Glasgows Royal Hospital for Children on Monday after being admitted the day before.

The 11-year-old, from Helensburgh, was rushed there by ambulance after relatives became concerned when her condition deteriorated at home.

Her death is now being treated as unexplained as Police Scotland carry out an investigation into the circumstances.

Announcing her passing on social media her devasted mother Samantha, said: I honestly have no words, I am numbmy beautiful girl gained her angel wings today with everyone who loved her round her. She passed peacefully.

She added that her daughter, an S1 pupil at the towns Hermitage Academy, was now away up to her nana waiting on her where she would be well looked after.

Fly high sweetheart, she said, conceding she will never get over you not being here anymore.

In memory of her gorgeous loving angel Ms Curley updated her social media page yesterday with a collection of images of the youngster with the soundtrack Moms Love Is Always Here.

Olivia Curley passed away at Glasgow s Royal Hospital for Children on Monday

Olivia was an S1 pupil at Helensburgh's Hermitage Academy

In earlier posts she spoke of how Olivia had become poorly over the weekend and had to be rushed to hospital when she failed to pick up.

Hours later she wrote: My darling sweetheart this is the last night we will fall asleep together I just want you to know you made me a mum but although you where my daughter you where my strength. I will never get over this sweetheart, but I will tell you we will look after your little sister.

One friend said: I can't get my head around it at all, saw Liv just last week in town and she was beautifulLiv was really special.her words of kindness and wisdom, how she was like this at such a young age is remarkable.

Another mourner added: There no words for what has happened. Your girl will be remembered for the loving kind, sassy inquisitive girl she is.

She will always be present in your life, always bringing you all the strength. You will get the answers you need.

An online fundraiser has now been set up to help the family give the youngster the beautiful farewell she deserves. It had collected more than 3,500 in just a few hours.

Organiser Christina Blair said: It is with unimaginable heartbreak that we share the devastating news of the sudden passing of Olivia Curley, who was just 11 years old.

On 17/11/2025, Olivia sadly and unexpectedly left us after becoming unwell over the weekend.

Olivia, 11, took ill at home in Helensburgh and was rushed to hospital

She described the schoolgirl as a bright, loving, and unforgettable soul who touched the hearts of everyone who knew her.

The fundraising page added that Olivia was a cherished friend, full of kindness, laughter, and warmth and that her passing has left a hole in the lives of her family, friends, and all who loved her.

Ms Blair wrote: At a time when no family should ever have to face such pain, we are coming together to ask for support in giving Olivia the beautiful farewell she deserves.

Olivia will never be forgotten. Her light, her smile, and her kindness will live on in everyone whose life she touched.

Argyll and Bute Council said it was devastated to learn of the death of one of its pupils at Hermitage Academy and was providing support to the girls' family, pupils and staff at the school.

Police Scotland confirmed they were made aware on Monday that the girl had taken unwell and passed away after being taken to hospital.

A spokesman said: 'The death is being treated as unexplained and inquiries are ongoing to establish the full circumstances.'
He will be forever be known as the boy wizard.

But now Daniel Radcliffe has revealed he wrote a personal letter to the young Scots actor cast as Harry Potter in the upcoming TV series.

The 36-year-old, penned the message to Dominic McLaughlin, 11, after hearing hed been chosen to walk in his footsteps in the magical world witchcraft and wizardly.

And he recalled himself being the same age when the filming for the first ever adventure, The Philosophers Stone which was released in 2001, started.

Radcliffe told Good Morning America: I wouldnt say that anyone who is going to play Harry has to (call me) but I know a few people that are working on the production.

I wrote to Dominic, I sent him a letter and he sent me a very sweet note back.

I dont want to be a spectre in the life of these children at all but I just wanted to write to him to say, I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did - I had a great time, but I hope you have an even better time.

Daniel Radcliffe was the first actor to play Harry Potter

Scots actor Dominic McLaughlin will play the boy wizard in a forthcoming TV adaptation

Arabella Stanton, Dominic McLaughlin, and Alastair Stout, who will portray Hermione Granger, Harry Potter and Ron Weasley in the HBO series

And I do, I just see these pictures of him and the other kids and I just want to hug them.

They just seem so young. I do look at them and go, Oh its crazy I was doing that at that age.

But its also incredibly sweet and I hope theyre having a great time.

Glaswegian Dominic, who trained at the Performance Academy Scotland, in Cambuslang, just outside the city is taking over the lead role in HBOs series opposite Arabella Stanton as Hermione and Alastair Stout as Ron.

The casting of the lead roles was announced in May.

A young Emma Watson, Daniel Radcliffe and Rupert Grint starred in the Harry Potter films

In his first interview about the role in August, he was asked by BBC News how it felt to transform into the character.

He replied: A bit surreal to be honest, because I was always a huge Harry Potter fan when I was younger.

And it was like the dream role, of course, so Im thrilled to be able to be doing it.

In July the studio where the TV reboot is being filmed was granted permission to build a temporary school for the child actors to study in for real.

Warner Bros Studios Leavesden, near Watford, has been told by Three Rivers District Council it could use a series of portable buildings as a school facility for the next decade.

The series based on JK Rowlings novels is expected to take 10 years to complete and the first episodes are due to air in 2027.
Scottish communities are paying the price for Labour and the SNPs industrial vandalism on net zero, Kemi Badenoch has claimed.

The Conservative Party leader has today launched a scathing attack on the impact of the approach taken by both the UK and Scottish governments.

It follows the announcement that the Fife Ethylene Plant at Mossmorran in Fife is set to close in February, putting 400 jobs on the line.

Bosses at the plant yesterday made clear that government policy was to blame for the crisis which has led to the decision.

Writing in todays Scottish Daily Mail, Ms Badenoch branded the SNPs push to achieve net zero by 2045 as unachievable and economically illiterate.

She also accused Labour ministers of having no plan to save Mossmorran and SNP ministers of trying to wash their hands of responsibility.

Ms Badenoch warned families in Fife face fear and uncertainty over Christmas, and said: There is an unavoidable truth. Labour and the SNPs reckless, ideological net zero agenda is tearing through Scottish industry and the consequences are real.

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has launched a scathing attack on the impact of the net zero policies pursued by both the UK and Scottish governments

The Mossmorran gas plant near Cowdenbeath, Fife has been earmarked for closure

The North Sea is being choked, the offshore industry is in crisis, and communities are paying the price.

People arent losing their jobs because ethylene is no longer needed. Theyre losing them because Labour and the SNP have decided these jobs shouldnt exist in Britain.

The work (and the emissions) will simply move somewhere else. Another country will employ the skilled workers that Britain trained. This isnt climate leadership, its industrial vandalism.

Since it came to power, Labour has enforced a ban on new oil and gas licences.

The SNP Government previously published a draft energy strategy which included a presumption against new oil and gas licences.

ExxonMobil chairman Paul Greenwood yesterday told BBC Radio 4s Today programme that the Mossmorran closure was partly down to deliberate decisions taken by the Government.

Mr Greenwood said: Fife ethylene plant and its closure is an example of how bad policy is going to hurt jobs and undermine economic growth in the UK.

He added: The Government needs to understand that the whole industrial base of the UK is at risk unless they wake up and they realise the damage that their economic policies are doing.

Ms Badenoch said the Mossmorran closure should shock no one and claimed that Sir Keir Starmers government is in power but not in control.

She said: The SNPs net zero by 2045 target isnt just unachievable, its economically illiterate. The Labour and SNP governments must answer to the communities they have failed.

She said both governments have been warned of mass job losses but have only offered slogans, consultations, and empty press releases.

Ms Badenoch said: This weeks silence from the Government in the face of the Mossmorran announcement was shameful. So too is the SNPs attempt to wash its hands of responsibility. Communities across Scotland deserve honesty.

Scotland can lead the world in all forms of energy but only if we reject the destructive dogma that is hollowing out our industrial base.

Ms Badenoch said the Mossmorran closure should shock no one given the UK and Scottish Government's policies

The oil and gas industry has also suffered due to net zero policies

Labour and the SNP would rather manage decline. Conservatives choose growth, security, and common sense.

At Prime Ministers Questions yesterday, Sir Keir admitted that workers at Mossmorran are going through a difficult time following the announcement.

After being asked by Ms Badenoch whether the loss of UK industry is the price the country has to pay for having a clueless Chancellor, Sir Keir said: Let me just say about ExxonMobil, it is a difficult time for the workforce there, and we must focus on supporting them.

We have been meeting the company for more than six months and explored every possible reasonable avenue.

They have been facing losses for the past five years and they are currently losing 1 million a week.

He added that Ms Badenoch hasnt got an ounce of credibility.

SNP Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said that in discussions with the firm both last week and on Monday she had been surprised by how quickly the company moved to the news they would begin closure in February.

Speaking on the BBCs Good Morning Scotland programme, she said: You have to look at the reasons ExxonMobil have given for their decision and I have pushed them on these decisions in our conversations.

But they have cited some of the policy and fiscal decisions that have been made in the UK that are making business less competitive.

She said the Scottish Governments priority is now to look at whether there is an alternative future at the site as well as to support the workforce at a really troubling time.


For years, the Conservatives have been warning that the entire North Sea oil and gas sector is at risk of collapse. Not in twenty years, but now.

Thats why Russell Findlay and I have declared a UK oil and gas emergency. Just look at the job losses we have already seen from Harbour Energy to Grangemouth refinery.

So, it cant have come as much of a surprise that Scotland began this week with yet another hammer blow to its industrial heart: the closure of part of ExxonMobils Fife Ethylene Plant at Mossmorran and the prospect of hundreds of skilled jobs gone by early next year.

Families in Fife now face a Christmas weighed down by fear and uncertainty. And what did the UK Labour Government offer them yesterday? Nothing. No explanation. No plan.

There is an unavoidable truth. Labour and the SNPs reckless, ideological Net Zero agenda is tearing through Scottish industry and the consequences are real. The North Sea is being choked, the offshore industry is in crisis, and communities are paying the price.

People arent losing their jobs because ethylene is no longer needed.

ExxonMobil's Mossmorran plant has been earmarked for closure

The ethylene cracker plant in Fife has been earmarked for closure, with hundreds of jobs on the line

Tory leader Kemi Badenoch says Labour and the SNP's 'reckless, ideological Net Zero agenda is tearing through Scottish industry'

Theyre losing them because Labour and the SNP have decided these jobs shouldnt exist in Britain.

The work (and the emissions) will simply move somewhere else. Another country will employ the skilled workers that Britain trained.

This isnt climate leadership, its industrial vandalism.

The Chief Executive of the Oil and Gas Industry body Offshore Energy has been clear: almost 1,000 jobs will be lost every month between now and 2030 unless policy changes, many of these highly skilled and well paid.

If it were any other industry, our governments would not tolerate this.

Yet Labour presses ahead with its ban on new North Sea licences, and the SNP stands shoulder-to-shoulder with them, cheerleading decline.

If nothing changes, Britain will rely on imports for 80 per cent of our oil and gas by 2030.

What is the advantage of importing oil and gas from countries, which in many cases have lower environmental standards than us?

What other country, blessed with abundant natural resources, would choose to become dependent on foreign regimes for energy?

Its not just our energy security. OEUK estimates 160,000 jobs across the UK are at risk, along with 10 billion in exchequer revenue by 203435.

That is revenue that could fund schools, hospitals, and public services. But Labour and the SNP would rather forfeit it because they would rather feel virtuous than protect Scottish workers.

The Mossmorran closure should shock no one. In its statement last night, the Government said it knew this was coming and had been discussing the operating environment since April, and it had not able to reach a solution.

This is yet another example of how Keir Starmers government is in power, but not in control.

For years, the Fife Ethylene Plant has been crushed by punitive carbon taxes.

With the addition of the Energy Profits Levy that has remained in place far longer than it should have and the constant political drumbeat against hydrocarbons, it is no surprise that we are seeing disinvestment, job losses, and industrial decline.

And the SNPs response? Blame Westminster. Never mind that theyve championed the same destructive ideology, and in some cases gone even further than Labour in tying Scotlands hands.

Never mind that they have failed, repeatedly, to provide a just transition plan for sites like Mossmorran, despite previous promises.

The SNPs Net Zero by 2045 target isnt just unachievable, its economically illiterate. The Labour and SNP governments must answer to the communities they have failed, and this includes farmers.

The Climate Change Committee was clear that Scotland would need to cut sheep and cattle numbers by over a third and force a 30% reduction in meat consumption to meet the target. Farmers and families never voted for this.

Scotlands rural economy is already under strain. To demand livestock reductions of that scale is to demand the erasure of a way of life.

It is the same pattern we see with the North Sea: the SNP chasing applause from activists while ignoring the communities they were elected to serve.

Ms Badenoch and Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay have declared 'a UK oil and gas emergency'

Meanwhile, over the past decade Scotland has lost three oil and gas jobs for every new clean energy job created.

The Scottish Affairs Committee warned that renewables are nowhere near replacing the scale of employment being lost. Transition requires jobs to transition into. The SNP and Labour have instead offered slogans, consultations, and empty press releases.

The truth is, Labours fantasy economics wont power a modern Britain. Chancellor Rachel Reeves tells us her approach is pragmatic.

But pragmatism does not mean shutting down existing industries before viable alternatives exist. Pragmatism does not mean banning new oil and gas licences while Britain still relies on hydrocarbons for the majority of its energy.

And pragmatism certainly does not mean ignoring workers at Mossmorran, Grangemouth and across the North East who warn that their industries are being dismantled around them.

As the UK Chair of ExxonMobil said, the Government needs to understand that the whole industrial base of the UK is at risk unless they wake up and realise the damage their economic policies are doing.

If Labour pushes ahead, oil and gas production will halve by 2030. Thousands more will lose their jobs. Energy bills will rise. And Britain will slide from energy exporter to energy supplicant.

The Conservative Party has set out a different path. We recognise that Net Zero cannot be delivered by destroying our domestic industry and outsourcing emissions abroad. We understand that oil and gas will remain essential for decades, even under the most ambitious scenarios.

And we know that while clean energy is the long-term future, it must be built on the foundation of a strong, secure, domestic energy sector.

We know climate change is real, but we cannot build a better future by bankrupting our country in the process.

That is why we will overturn Labours ban on new oil and gas licences, unlocking billions of barrels and billions in revenue.

We will reform the North Sea Transition Authority into a North Sea Authority with one clear mission: maximise domestic extraction.

Get our oil and gas out the ground.

We will reverse the ban on government support for our oil and gas sector overseas, restoring billions in annual export potential.

We will scrap the Energy Profits Levy and scrap the crippling carbon tax on electricity generation as part of our Cheap Power Plan to cut electricity prices.

The north sea oil and gas industry has also been hit hard by net zero policies

And we will back the workers who built Scotlands energy industry and who will be vital to its future.

This weeks silence from the Government in the face of the Mossmorran announcement was shameful.

So too is the SNPs attempt to wash its hands of responsibility. Communities across Scotland deserve honesty.

Scotland can lead the world in all forms of energy but only if we reject the destructive dogma that is hollowing out our industrial base.

Labour and the SNP would rather manage decline. Conservatives choose growth, security, and common sense.

Scotlands workers know the stakes. They know what is being lost. And they know it does not have to be this way.
Surveillance footage recovered by federal agents has shed light on Florida teen Anna Kepner's final hours, revealing she likely died inside the cramped cruise ship cabin she was sharing with her younger brother and a stepbrother, who is now considered a 'suspect' in her mysterious death, the Daily Mail can reveal.

The 18-year-old high school cheerleader was on a six-day Caribbean getaway with her family when she was found dead in international waters between Mexico and Florida on November 7.

Earlier this week sources revealed her body was found wrapped in a blanket and stuffed under her bed, the grim discovery prompting FBI agents to swarm the Carnival Horizon when it returned to Miami a day later.

The Daily Mail has now learned that onboard security footage captured doomed Anna's final steps as she headed back to her room on the evening of November 6 after complaining during dinner that she felt unwell.

She was sharing the cabin with her 14-year-old brother, and 16-year-old stepbrother with the two boys sleeping in bunk beds and Anna in her own bed, according to a well-placed source.

The boys headed back to the room later that evening but the younger brother changed his clothes and went out again to take snapshots of the $800 million ship to post on social media.

When he got back he noticed Anna wasn't in bed but presumed she was staying up late with the grown-ups and went to sleep, according to the source.

It wasn't until the next day when the brother and stepbrother got up and headed to breakfast that the family realized the bubbly teen from Titusville, Florida, was missing.

Anna Kepner returned to the cabin she was sharing aboard the Carnival Horizon with her younger brother and stepbrother after dinner on November 6, and never left the room again, the Daily Mail has learned

Anna Kepner went on the cruise with her 16-year-old stepbrother and other family members. Court filings obtained by the Daily Mail confirm the stepbrother is now a 'suspect' in her death

As Christopher Kepner, 41, began searching the Horizon for his daughter, it's believed that a medical emergency was announced over the public address system.

Sources say that prompted the dad to race to his daughter's cabin where he walked inside to find that a cleaning crew had just discovered her dead body crammed under her bed.

The fresh clues emerged Wednesday just hours after explosive court filings revealed for the first time that Anna's 16-year-old stepbrother is considered a 'suspect' in her death.

In an emergency motion obtained by the Daily Mail, the boy's father Thomas Hudson demands clarity on what has happened to his son, who he says is now in the care of a 'third party'.

He accuses his ex-wife Shauntel Hudson, 36  now Christopher Kepner's partner and Anna's stepmom  of putting his son's future 'in jeopardy'.

'The respondent took the remaining minor children on a cruise with a stepchild of her paramour,' the filing states.

'The sixteen-year-old child is now a suspect in the death of the stepchild during the cruise.'

Thomas Hudson is also seeking immediate custody of their other minor child, a nine-yearold girl currently living in Titusville with Shauntel and the Kepners.

Anna's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, who recently married Chris Kepner has been locked in a custody battle with her ex-husband which saw her file a recent court response acknowledging there's an open investigation' into her stepdaughter's death

Anna's father Chris divorced her stepmother and married fellow divorcee Shauntel, who moved to Titusville, Florida with her two youngest children

Anna grew up on Florida's sundrenched Space Coast with Christopher, his ex-wife Tabitha Kepner, 33, and her two siblings, a boy aged 14 and a girl of nine.

Christopher and Tabitha split in 2023 but the crane operator soon found love again with Shauntel, who divorced last year and relocated to Titusville with her two youngest kids.

Late last year Thomas Hudson accused his ex-wife of 'willfully violating' court orders and 'denying his parenting time' in a motion for contempt filed in Brevard County.

They were due to square off in court next month but Shauntel filed for a continuance Tuesday, requesting more time to respond due to an 'extremely sensitive and severe circumstance.'

She said the FBI had advised her that one of her minor children faced a potential criminal prosecution related to Anna's death.

'Any testimony the Respondent may give, either written or oral, could be prejudicial to her or her adolescent child in this pending criminal investigation,' wrote Shauntel's lawyer.

She also denied Hudson's claims that she has refused him parenting time under their current custody plan, alleging that he hasn't 'come nor made any arrangements to come for timesharing with the two remaining minor children', besides the day they moved to their current home.

Thus far the FBI has refused to say how Anna died  or whether she was murdered - on board the Carnival Horizon which visited Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel before sailing back to Miami.

The Daily Mail has learned Anna was sharing a cabin on the cruise with her 14-year-old brother and 16-year-old stepbrother. File photo of a Carnival stateroom

A maid aboard the Carnival cruise was the one to find Anna's body wrapped in a blanket, covered over with life jackets and stuffed under a bed, according to our sources, who spoke under condition of anonymity

Thomas Hudson is also seeking emergency custody of their nine-year-old daughter, who lives in Titusville, Florida, with Shauntel and Annas father, Christopher Kepner

The Miami Dade County Medical Examiner says she died at 11.17am on November 7  the time her body was discovered rather than an exact time of death.

Heartbroken Christopher insisted in a previous interview with the Daily Mail that investigators had shared barely any details with him.

'We were there as a family. Everybody was questioned. Everybody came off that ship.

'I don't know who they are looking at or what their investigation is,' he said.

'The FBI hasn't shared anything with me yet. I would imagine they're going to be in contact with me about it  but I know as little as everybody else.

'I have no idea what is going on right now. We are just trying to sit still and wait for answers.'

Known by her nickname Anna Banana, Anna was set to graduate in May and had plans on joining the military.

A gymnast and varsity cheerleader, she attended Temple Christian School in Titusville, where her Kia Forte remained parked up this week, covered in flowers and tributes from heartbroken pals.

Christopher said his daughter's ultimate goal was to join the local police department so she could protect her friends and family.

'The whole family is lost for words. We miss her and love her more than anything,' he added.
The Coalition is probing plans to strengthen the immigration system's focus on ensuring people moving to Australia embody 'Australian values'.

Shadow Minister for Home Affairs Jonno Duniam suggested multiple times this week that the Opposition are considering changes after news that a neo-Nazi is due to be deported after a universally condemned protest.

On ABC's Afternoon Briefing on Tuesday, the Liberal Senator for Tasmania highlighted what should be prioritised by those moving to Australia.

'We do need to look at whether people share our values here, whether they believe in our pluralistic approach to life, our freedom of religion as a foundational element of our society,' he said.

'We need to do everything we can to ensure that we uphold Australian values, as we ask people to when they take the citizenship pledge at the ceremonies that we all attend so regularly.

'There should be a way of ensuring those values are upheld in this process.'

Duniam then doubled down on his hopes for immigration, after it was confirmed South African engineer Matthew Gruter, who attended a neo-Nazi rally in Sydney, will be kicked out of Australia.

'Standing up for Australia means being clear that we don't welcome people who seek to divide communities or undermine the values we all share,' the senator told The Sydney Morning Herald.

Shadow Home Affairs Minister Jonno Duniam is considering proposing changes to the immigration system to focus on 'Australian values' (pictured, Shadow minister for Energy Dan Tehan, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and Duniam)

'Instead, we need people who add to and strengthen those values.

'People that want to come here do so on our invitation, and if they are not going to act in a way that our society accepts, whether that be through breaking the law or seeking to generate division, then they shouldn't be allowed in.'

Gruter was one of 60 demonstrators linked to the National Socialist Network who protested outside NSW parliament on November 9.

The group shouted Nazi slogans and unfurling a large banner that read 'Abolish the Jewish Lobby'.

But Gruter's time in Australia is up after Home Affairs Minister Tony Burke confirmed on Monday he had cancelled Gruter's visa.

'If you are on a visa, you are a guest. If you're a citizen, you're a full member of the Australian family,' Mr Burke said.

'Like with any household, if a guest turns up to show hatred and wreck the household, they can be told it's time to go home.'

Sources have told the Herald several options are being explored by the Opposition, fast-tracking it to stop an elongated debate over net zero party in which embattled Sussan Ley could risk losing control of the party.

Duniam's comments followed news South African engineer Matthew Gruter will be deported after attending a neo-Nazi rally in Sydney

Anyone applying for a visa must agree to key values that underpin the society, which are summarised in the 'Australian Values Statement'.

It includes migrants agreeing to freedom of individuals, religion and a 'fair go' for all embraces, as well as a commitment to the rule of law.

Former deputy secretary of the immigration department, Abul Rizvi, told the Herald an option for the Coalition would be to strengthen the statement.

Alternatively, he suggested new migrants could take a 'values assessment', like the one that exists for citizenship, but it would come with other challenges.

'Given the volume of visas we issue, that would grind the system to an unbelievable slowdown. Testing also involves costs and time,' he said.
Congresswoman Nancy Mace is demanding that her Republican colleague be stripped of his responsibilities for allegedly assaulting women in a messy inter-party feud.

The South Carolina Republican, who is running for governor in a competitive primary, has been posting nonstop about the alleged misdeeds of her fellow Republican Congressman Cory Mills of Florida.

'When you're accused of assaulting women, profiting off federal contracts from your congressional seat, and inflating your military record, you have no business shaping America's defense policy,' Mace said of Mills in one of her 20 posts about him over the last 24 hours.

Mills has been embroiled in a slew of controversies this year, including allegations of domestic abuse, threatening to release revenge porn on an ex-girlfriend, stolen valor claims that he's undeserving of his Bronze Star award and revelations that he was married in a mosque by a man linked to the 9/11 hijackers.

For his part, Mills has largely pushed back on the myriad allegations. He explained earlier this year that his reported marriage in an Islamic ceremony was to ensure that his wife, originally from Iraq, would be allowed to safely travel to the country to see her family.

'Congresswoman Nancy Maces latest stunt is a politically motivated attempt to grab headlines and settle personal scores,' Mills told the Daily Mail in a statement.

'The claims on my valor that shes pushing are baseless, recycled, and already publicly disproven. I fully deny them, just as I always have. This is not oversight, its attention-seeking dressed up as accountability.'

The statement did not include any mention of the other scandals plaguing the Florida lawmaker.

Republican Congresswoman Nancy Mace introduced a resolution to punish her Florida colleague, Cory Mills Wednesday. She also reposted an image of a text conversation in which Mills allegedly tells his girlfriend 'you will be a good girl and do anything he wants or asks' in reference to someone named Chris

Mills and his 28-year-old girlfriend Sarah Raviani

Alleged texts exchanged between Mills and his girlfriend were leaked by Nancy Mace on X. Raviani, his girlfriend, told the Mail the messages are 'doctored'

One of those scandals was highlighted by Mace after she re-posted a screenshot of steamy text messages Mills allegedly sent to his 28-year-old girlfriend while still married.

'And you will be a good girl and do anything he wants or asks?' one of the alleged messages from Mills to his girlfriend in a group chat titled 'New Year's Fun' reads.

'He can have you as many times as he wants, any way he wants, and finish anywhere he chooses right babe?' Mills continues in the exchange, referring to another man.

Though Sarah Raviani, Mills' girlfriend, strongly pushed back on exchange.

'The messages being circulated are doctored and originated from an anonymous pro-Palestinian account,' she texted the Daily Mail.

'Corys legal team is already preparing a cease-and-desist for the individual behind the account, who is distributing unverified, manipulated material,' she continued. 'There is no authentic metadata supporting their claims.'

Raviani was also party to another of the congressman's scandals.

In February, the D.C. Metropolitan Police responded to a domestic abuse call at Mills' D.C. apartment.

Mills has been embroiled in a stolen valor controversy regarding his Bronze Star award

Rana Al Saadi, Mills's wife, President Donald Trump and Mills pose for a photo. Mills, who has a girlfriend, has said he's going through divorce proceedings with his wife

Lindsey Langston, 25, the winner of Miss United States 2024, claimed in a July 14 sheriff's report obtained by the Daily Mail that Mills has threatened to release nude videos of her

Raviani phoned the police after '(Her significant other for over a year) grabbed her, shoved her, and pushed her out of the door' of his apartment, a copy of the initial incident report obtained by NBC claims.

Mills 'vehemently denies' the allegations of abuse, his office later said. Raviani also later told the Daily Mail that 'no assault took place.'

On Wednesday, Mace introduced a censure resolution against Mills. The maneuver is the harshest penalty that can be lobbed at a sitting congressman short of expulsion.

The timing of Mace's censure resolution is unclear, but the House will have to act on it within two legislative days, which could mean action on the floor as soon as Friday.

However, it is unclear whether or not there would be enough votes for the measure to pass.

If the resolution passes, Mills would be forced to stand in at the front of the House chamber while his infractions get read aloud into the congressional record in front of the 433 members of Congress.

But that's not all, the South Carolina congresswoman is also advocating to have Mills removed from his committee assignments on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and the House Armed Services Committee - a move that could significantly reel in the Floridian's power on Capitol Hill.

Mace has even reportedly sent a letter to Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson calling for Mills to be punished.

Raviani texted the Daily Mail that the alleged text conversation including her and Mills was 'doctored'

The rift comes a day after Democrats initially pushed a motion to censure Mills but withdrew it after striking a deal with Republicans to avoid a counter-censure of liberal Delegate Stacey Plaskett of the Virgin Islands for her past communications with the late sex trafficker and pedophile Jeffrey Epstein.

Though Wednesday's gambit was not the first time Mace had tried to knife Mills.

In September, the South Carolinian threatened to censure her Florida colleague for voting against her petition to censure progressive 'Squad' member Congresswoman Ilhan Omar of Minnesota for her insensitive remarks about Charlie Kirk shortly after his assassination.

Mace's push has garnered some GOP support, too.

Congresswoman Anna Paulina Luna of Florida, without mentioning Mills by name, said yesterday 'a republican thats having a lot of issues and should not seek re-election.'

'Stop bulls****ing the American people and Florida residents,' Luna posted about Mills on Wednesday. 'Get your crap together, not in Congress.'

Congresswoman Lauren Boebert similarly vented her frustration at Mills on Tuesday by yelling at him on the House floor after Tuesday's censure attempt against the Floridian failed.

The House Committee on Ethics announced on Wednesday that it is opening a probe into Mills' behavior, potentially spelling further trouble for the congressman. The existence of an investigation does not on its own indicate wrongdoing, however.

Still, House leadership could step in to strike a deal to save Mills from the upcoming censure vote as they did with the Plaskett deal this week.

Though it remains to be seen if Speaker Johnson would want to.
Hundreds of motorists are trapped on the North York Moors as snow and ice left major roads impassable.

Several crashes on the A171 near Whitby caused long tailbacks with motorists stranded into the evening as temperatures plunged to -2C.

Footage shared online shows long tailbacks of vehicles crawling through a white-out, with police warning drivers to stay away.

On the A169 near Fylingdales, a lorry blocked the road, forcing traffic to be rerouted through Scarborough.

The chaos hit just hours before an amber warning comes into force across parts of the North York Moors and Yorkshire Wolds, where forecasters say up to 25cm (10in) of snow could fall between 3am and 9pm tomorrow.

Wintry showers are also hammering coastal regions across the UK, after 7cm (2.7in) settled overnight and triggered yellow alerts across East Anglia, the South West, Wales, North East England, northern Scotland and Northern Ireland.

The Met Office has also confirmed that its yellow warning for snow and ice has been extended further north, reaching up to the Humber and now covering parts of Lincolnshire.

One image shared around 5pm today shows vehicles and a lorry trying to drive under the dangerous conditions.

Motorist seen driving through the dangerous snowy conditions

Queues of traffic seen on the A171 in North Yorkshire as police urge drivers to avoid the area

Lorry stuck on A169 near Fylingdales, prompting police to divert traffic through Scarborough

One post on the Facebook page North Yorkshire Weather Updates said: '17.00 thankfully a lot of vehicles have managed to leave to A171 Birk Brow area between Guisborough to Whitby.

'But conditions are still treacherous and vehicles are still stuck hour half later.'

North Yorkshire Police said: 'Please avoid the A171 near Whitby and across the moors towards Guisborough - lots of vehicles are getting stuck due to the weather conditions.

'The A174 out of Whitby maybe passable at this time. If in any doubt, please don't travel if you don't need to. Stay safe out there.'

Meanwhile, in London, Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan has brought in the capital's Severe Weather Emergency Protocol (SWEP), which provides extra accommodation for homeless people.

The plan sees boroughs and homelessness charities open additional emergency housing for people sleeping rough in conditions that could pose a threat to life.

SWEP, which is activated when temperatures fall to 0C (32F), was in place for 22 nights last winter when London boroughs housed more than 2,000 people.

In Scotland, dozens of schools and nurseries have shut due to the weather - including 20 in the Highland Council area, 19 in Aberdeenshire and three in Moray.

All the weather warnings issued by the Met Office in force on Thursday

Queues of traffic in the snowy conditions on the A174 Boulby Bank near the North York Moors National Park

The treacherous conditions for drivers has prompted police to warn motorists to stay away

A person walking their dog through the snow in Tow Law, County Durham, this morning

A snowplough on the A9 near Blair Atholl in Scotland today as weather warnings are in force

A train is driven through the snow near Northolt in west London this morning

A person runs as snow begins to fall near Windsor Castle in Berkshire this morning

The Met Office expects further wintry showers on the coasts of northern Scotland on Wednesday night as well as the east and west coasts of the UK, after more snow fell this morning.

Areas including London, Hertfordshire, Berkshire, Surrey, Essex, Shropshire and Northumberland saw snow, with Met Office weather stations in Lake Vyrnwy in Powys, Wales, recording 7cm of lying snow at 8am.

Other weather stations report lying snow in Lerwick in Shetland which saw 5cm, 4cm in Loch Glascarnoch and 7cm in Altnaharra, both in the Scottish Highlands, 2cm in Aviemore, Inverness-shire, and 1cm each in Dyce, Aberdeenshire, Drumalbin in Lanarkshire and at Redesdale Camp in Northumberland.
Special Air Service veterans have declared they intend to launch legal action against the government over its mistreatment of soldiers who served in the Troubles.

In an unprecedented move, the SAS Regimental Association sent a pre-action letter to the Northern Ireland Secretary demanding troops are treated better than terrorists.

The remarkable step came after Conservative, Liberal Democrat, Reform and Ulster MPs voted against Labour's move to remove legal protections for soldiers on Tuesday.

These were introduced by the previous Tory government's Legacy Act, steered through the Commons in 2023 by then Veterans Minister Johnny Mercer.

Labour's Troubles Bill, which passed its Second Reading, removes these protections and paves the way for more than 100 SAS soldiers to face further inquests and possible criminal inquiries.

The shock legal move also follows Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch's call for Armed Forces Minister Al Carns, a decorated former Royal Marine, to resign.

The ex-Commando, who served four tours of Afghanistan, has become a lightning rod for the frustrations of veterans facing further inquests and possible criminal investigations over actions against the IRA decades ago.

The SAS's letter makes clear soldiers will challenge the Troubles Bill in the courts unless it is redrafted in their favour.

The elite SAS are fighting lawfare on many fronts. Troops who fought in Iraq and Afghanistan are also facing possible criminal inquiries

The Regimental Association's lawyers claim the legislation breaches the veterans' human rights, particularly their 'personal dignity, psychological integrity and autonomy'.

The letter, sent by the Sidley Austin law firm in London, said: 'It is our clients' position that the Bill is manifestly deficient in terms of protections it offers to former service personnel, police officers and members of the security services.

'No attempt is made to distinguish between veterans and terrorists and there are no clear definitions of 'victim' and 'survivor'.

'Failure to provide sufficient safeguards for veterans constitutes a breach of (among others) Article 8 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

'In the absence of immunity protections or clear evidential and proportionality thresholds, the Legacy Commission's power to restart inquests and repeat investigations presents an obvious threat to Veteran's rights.

'It is apparent the regime set out in the Bill is wholly incompatible with the ECHR and must be subject to considerable improvement if it is to survive challenge.'

The SAS Regimental Association has also set out a list of demands to improve legislation and protect veterans, including a 'new evidence certification requirement' to stop former soldiers being drawn back into the same legal proceedings time and again.

Other clauses include mandatory consideration of the passage of time, a duty to consider the operational context in which military actions took place and strengthened welfare protections.

At Prime Minister's Questions yesterday, Conservative backbencher David Davis, called on Sir Keir Starmer to step in.

He said: 'I know of no precedent for this letter before action in the entire history of the Army. It reflects just how serious the situation is.

'The most acute damage is being felt by the Special Air Service. It is already affecting their recruitment, retention, morale and operational effectiveness.

'Can I plead with the Prime Minister to engage personally in this matter and stop soldiers in their sixties, seventies and eighties from being dragged into court and punished for actions most people would consider heroic?

'This is a matter of both national security and national honour.'

The PM responded: 'Can I thank him for his question and reassure him on the protections he seeks for veterans.

'It is a very important issue and he's continually and rightly raised it. There will be protections from repeat investigations, so the commissioner doesn't go over old ground without compelling reasons.

'There will be protection from cold calling and protection in old age so elderly veterans are respected. Those who contribute to the legacy process will have a right to anonymity and to stay at home.'

In a statement released last night, the SAS Regimental Association insisted it was prepared to 'work constructively' with the government.
The man who was accused of setting a woman on fire during her commute in Chicago on Monday has been charged with federal terrorism.

Lawrence Reed, 50, was charged on Wednesday for allegedly pouring gasoline on a woman and igniting a blaze on the Chicago transit system.

He allegedly approached the victim and repeatedly yelled at officers 'burn alive b***h,' according to a criminal affidavit filed in federal court.

Reed was arrested on Tuesday afternoon and appeared to be wearing the same clothes he was seen in on the night of the attack.

The complaint also noted that he had 'fire-related injuries' on his hand.

Reed is accused of setting fire to the woman, who was not identified by authorities, at around 9.24pm, according to the complaint.

A photo from surveillance footage depicted the two sitting in the train car before Reed allegedly poured gasoline over the victim's head and body.

In a horrifying chain of events, the victim attempted to fight off her attacker while Reed allegedly tried to set her on fire.

Lawrence Reed, 50, was arrested on Tuesday and later charged in connection with a horrifying arson attack against a woman on Monday evening

Reed is accused of torching a woman unprovoked while she was commuting on a Chicago commuter train

Surveillance camera footage captured the horrifying attack. Reed allegedly poured gasoline on the woman while she sat in the train car

She was seen running to the front of the train car to escape before her attacker allegedly ignited the bottle in his hand, according to the affidavit completed by Adam Fitzgerald, a Special Agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.

Reed then allegedly ran to the front of the train car and watched his victim as her body was 'engulfed in flames,' the affidavit read.

She was seen attempting to extinguish the flames by dropping to the ground, and fled the train car when it stopped at Clark and Lake.

The victim collapsed when she arrived at the station, and multiple witnesses attended to her while she waited for emergency responders.

Reed allegedly fled at the station as authorities searched for a person of interest in the arson attack.

He was arrested on Tuesday in downtown Chicago. Investigators obtained additional security footage of Reed allegedly filling a container with gasoline at a gas station 20 minutes before the attack, according to the affidavit.

The woman allegedly attempted to fight back and ran off the train when it stopped at the next station

Prosecutors said that Reed was then allegedly captured on surveillance camera footage before the attack, filling up a bottle with gasoline

The Chicago Fire Department transported the victim, who has not yet been named, to a nearby hospital with severe burns after the attack.

She remained in critical condition as of Tuesday evening, but was reportedly conscious and speaking when emergency responders arrived.

Several witnesses spoke to local news about the horror they witnessed when the woman was engulfed in flames.

'She had severe burns all over her upper torso and half of her scalp was burnt off,' Michael Thomas told the Chicago Sun-Times.

'She was lucid and conscious and talking. I believe I overheard something along the lines of, "I can't believe I'm on fire."'

Thomas said he joined a group of a dozen bystanders to help put out the fire after she was attacked.

Reed was allegedly caught on surveillance camera filling a container up with gas before the attack

Prosecutors believe that Reed went to a gas station before allegedly attacking a woman on the Chicago train

He added that one woman held the victim and consoled her as others stood in silence or recorded on their phones.

Another witness told NBC 5 Chicago that the woman appeared to be in 'a really bad state' after the attack.

'I just saw a lady that was laying in the ground, and they were trying to give her CPR,' the witness added.

'And she looked like she was in an awful lot of pain.'
A trainee medic has been warned he faces a lengthy jail sentence after being found guilty of assaulting two female patients at an NHS hospital.

Trainee health worker Ieuan Crump, 27, sexually assaulted two women while carrying out bladder scans at Grange Hospital, Cwmbran.

One of his victims said Crump assaulted her with his finger while a female health worker was present, Cardiff Crown Court heard.

The female health worker had been attempting to insert a catheter into the woman's bladder.

Crump later came back to the room alone, claiming he needed to check there was no swelling, before repeating the sexual assault, the court was told.

A second victim told jurors how the trainee medic touched her genitals, and asked if they were painful. During the incident, he had also opened her legs.

Defending, Marian Lewis, said he was a man of 'impeccable character'.

He denied nine counts of sexual assault, including three allegations of sexual assault by penetration. He was found guilty of all counts.

Trainee health worker Ieuan Crump, 27, sexually assaulted two women while carrying out bladder scans at Grange Hospital, Cwmbran

He denied nine counts of sexual assault, including three allegations of sexual assault by penetration. He was found guilty of all counts

Crump of Caerphilly has been bailed until he is sentenced on December 18.

Addressing the trainee medic, Judge Vanessa Frances said: 'Inevitably, I am going to be giving you a prison sentence of some length.'

Crump has also been ordered to sign the sex offenders' register on an interim basis until he is sentenced.

The trainee medic was previously in court for the same charges last year, however, the case collapsed after two weeks.
Australians have been warned to prepare for flight delays after a volcano erupted on Indonesia's main island of Java.

Mount Semeru in eastern Java, west of Bali, erupted shortly after 2pm local time on Wednesday, prompting authorities to raise the alert level of the island's tallest mountain to its highest.

The volcano spewed ash clouds and gas kilometres above the mountain's peak, blanketing surrounding villages and sparking widespread evacuations.

Australias Bureau of Meteorology has since issued a red aviation alert after identifying the ash from satellite imagery.

No flights between Denpasar and Australia have yet been cancelled, but travellers have been urged to monitor for any changes.

No casualties have yet been reported though local officials say hundreds of residents have been evacuated from high-risk villages to government shelters.

Nearly 200 people also remain stranded on the mountain within kilometres of the crater, according to the a Bromo-Tengger-Semeru National Park spokesperson.

The group reportedly consists of 137 climbers, 15 porters, seven guides and six tourism officials, who were forced to stay overnight due to inclement weather.

Australians have been warned to prepare for flight delays after a volcano erupted on Indonesia's main island of Java (stock image)

An aerial picture shows a pyroclastic flow during the eruption of Mount Semeru on Java

The volcano spewed ash clouds and gas kilometres above the mountain's peak, blanketing surrounding villages and sparking widespread evacuations

They are currently safe at Ranu Kumbolo monitoring post, spokesperson Endrip Wahyutama said in a video statement.

The island sits along the 'Pacific Ring of Fire', a highly active seismic belt where shifting tectonic plates produce frequent earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

Indonesia is home to nearly 130 active volcanoes, more than any other country.

Semeru is closely monitored for the risks it poses to surrounding villages, transport routes and aviation paths.

A major eruption on the mountain in 2021 killed more than 50 people, damaged over 5,000 homes, and forced nearly 10,000 residents to flee.
The former Duke of York had 'consensual sex' with one of Jeffrey Epstein's employees, according to a close associate of the paedophile financier.

In a private email exchange, released in the latest tranche of files by US lawmakers, Epstein was warned to distance himself from the then Prince in 2015.

Journalist Landon Thomas Jr who appeared to have a close relationship with the disgraced millionaire urged him in one message to 'address' the scandal surrounding Andrew head on.

He said of Andrew, who has been stripped of his royal titles over the scandal, 'in the end he had consensual sex with' an employee who worked for Epstein.

It is not clear if Thomas Jr had been referring to Virginia Giuffre who publicly accused Mr Mountbatten-Windsor of having sex with her on three occasions when she was 17.

Epstein had emailed the journalist saying his reputation 'had taken a hit' with a draft of a potential statement he was considering releasing in an effort to repair his image.

On January 16, 2015 in an email headed 'How are you holding up?', Thomas Jr replied: 'I think the big issue is separating yourself from Andrew. I mean I can see why a statement might help in some way - but its Andrew (not clinton and the rest) that is keeping the story alive.

'Until you are able to come forward and address that the story lives on. I mean in the end he had consensual sex with (redacted) And (redacted) worked for you.

Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor had 'consensual sex' with one of Jeffrey Epstein's employees, according to a close associate of the paedophile financier

Virginia Giuffre photographed with Andrew and Ghislaine Maxwell in London in 2001

In a private email exchange, released in the latest tranche of files by US lawmakers, Epstein (pictured) was warned to distance himself from the then Prince in 2015

'The rest is atmospherics. You have moved on! People don't know that and cant accept that unless you say as much.'

Epstein did not appear to address the comment in his reply and went on instead to talk about other matters.

Thomas Jr last night insisted that Epstein, who died awaiting trial on sex trafficking charges, never told him Giuffre had sex with Andrew, and that he was merely repeating what he had read about the accusations in the press.

It comes after emails released in the bombshell tranche revealed how Epstein had confirmed the infamous photograph he took of the former prince and then teenage Giuffre at Maxwell's London townhouse was genuine.

Messages from 2011 revealed that the late financier admitted '..yes she had her photo taken with Andrew, as many of my employees have'.

The pictured was unearthed by the MoS that year as Ms Giuffre insisted she had slept with Andrew on three occasions - a claim the ex-prince has vehemently denied.

Meanwhile, the deadline for Andrew to respond to US congressional committee request for interview ends on Thursday.

In a letter sent to the former prince on November 6, the US House Oversight Committee requested he sit for a 'transcribed interview' in connection with his 'long-standing friendship' with Epstein.

The letter, signed by 16 members of Congress, asked Andrew to respond by November 20.
A young woman and a toddler have been killed in horrific late-night truck crash on the Bruce Highway in central Queensland.

Emergency services were called to the scene in Canoona near Rockhampton about 10.40pm on Wednesday after reports that two trucks - a Mercedes-Benz and a Freightliner had collided.

The Freightliner driver, aged in his 20s, suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to Rockhampton Hospital.

Two passengers in the Freightliner - a woman aged in her 20s and a toddler, suffered life-threatening injuries and died at the scene.

The sole occupant of the Mercedes-Benz driver aged in his 30s also suffered minor injuries and was taken to hospital.

The Bruce Highway remained closed in both directions on Thursday morning and is expected to remain shut for some time.

Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use alternative routes.

A Queensland Fire Department spokeswoman told The Courier Mail that one of the trucks involved sparked a small grassfire nearby.

The Bruce Highway at Canoona remains closed on Thursday after a fatal crash involving two trucks

Two passengers - a woman in her 20s and a toddler died at the scene (stock image)

Four Queensland Fire Rescue crews worked to extinguish the truck blaze while two rural crews helped contain the grassfire.

Fire crews remain at the scene.

Anyone with information or relevant footage is urged to contact police.
Melania Trump has told troops to brace for a brave new world of robots on the battlefield in a speech described by critics as 'dystopian.'

The First Lady was speaking to military personnel and their families at Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, on Wednesday.

Melania said that AI represented the most profound change to warfare since the creation of nuclear weapons and warned that the race for the technology was not one that America could afford to lose.

'Artificial intelligence is propelling America's military into a new era. We are moving from human operators to human overseers - fast,' the First Lady said.

'The shift from soldiers to machines is already underway. Autonomous helicopters, swarming drones, and recon aircraft are here now. Fighter-less jets and autonomous bombers are on the way.'

The unsettling theme sparked a meltdown online, with people complaining that it was unfair to tell troops that they are going to be replaced by robots, particularly in front of their loved ones.

'Is this speech supposed to be dystopian?' one user commented.

Another posted on X, 'Trailer for the new Terminator spin-off.'

First lady Melania Trump speaks about the need to educate the nation's youth at Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, on Wednesday

A third responded, 'Whattt? She actually told soldiers they are being replaced by robots?'

Melania has positioned herself at the vanguard of her husband's AI drive, notably leading the White House Task Force on Artificial Intelligence in September.

Speaking in Washington, DC, she highlighted the technology's benefits, including driverless taxis, robot-assisted surgeries, and drones.

She also stressed the need to educate the nation's youth to safeguard against its dangers - ideas which were echoed in her New River speech on Wednesday.

'To win the AI war, we must train our next generation, for it's America's students who will lead the Marine Corps in the future,' Melania said.

The First Lady continued, 'Technology is changing the art of war ... AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons.

'The most significant change will be speed. Speed in weaponry, decision-making, detection, attack, and defense. Artificial intelligence will take center stage in the theater of war, it already plays a meaningful role on the battlefield.

'Of course, it is the Marine who will always play the most critical role in realizing mission success.'

Many praised Melania for highlighting the importance of the technology.

'This isn't dystopian, it's reality. It's happening now,' one Daily Mail reader commented.

Another responded: 'I would have thought that would have been welcomed news for them. It means their lives would not be in danger, having to be on the front lines.'

A third Mail reader wrote, 'Dystopian or honesty? Id prefer to be told the truth than lied to because it feels good to hear.'

The military has already deployed autonomous systems such as the MQ-9 Reaper drone, used for reconnaissance missions, and the unmanned K-MAX helicopter, deployed in Afghanistan to deliver supplies to avoid roadside risks from IEDs.

Melania Trump meets with Marines and their families at the Mega Hangar at the Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, on Wednesday

Second Lady Usha Vance, whose husband is a former Marine, speaks in the Mega Hangar

Melania holds a child during the visit to Marine Corps Air Station New River

The appearance was the first time Melania and Usha have traveled together for a joint visit without their husbands

The Air Force's collaborative combat aircraft program is developing low-cost 'loyal wingman' drones to augment the capabilities of manned fighter aircraft. Prototypes from General Atomics and Anduril are slated for deployment in the late 2020s.

A long-range strike bomber, the B-21 Raider, has been designed with advanced AI capabilities so that it can be piloted by just one man, with the potential for full-uncrewed modes in the future.

Melania was joined by Second Lady Usha Vance, whose husband, Vice-President JD Vance, is a former Marine.

The appearance marked the first time Melania and Usha have traveled together for a joint visit without their husbands.

The pair earlier attended Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, also in Jacksonville.

'Thank you for your service. My husband, the President, is sending [his] best regards. We are both thinking of you,' Melania told students at Lejeune High School.

She emphasized that she and the President were thinking of the military, especially during the holidays, and wished the students and teachers a happy Thanksgiving.

The pair later visited the DeLalio Elementary School in New River, where they chatted with students and took part in a spelling class.

Melania told one of the little girls she was 'beautiful.'

Melania highlighted the benefits of AI, including driverless taxis, in her speech on Wednesday

Melania meets with children at DeLalio Elementary School in Jacksonville on Wednesday

Melania's jacket appeared to be designed by Blaze Milano, featuring various pockets of different sizes and tortoise-shell button detailing

It's unclear what Melania and Usha's relationship is like behind the scenes, but they have made some appearances together for various occasions, like Mother's Day

Melania and Usha looked ready to embrace the Fall weather as they arrived at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to visit service members and their families ahead of Thanksgiving

The Second Lady topped off the look with a pair of suede burgundy heels, black Ray-Ban sunglasses, and a pair of statement earrings

Melania, 55, dressed down in a pair of brown leather pants and a matching safari jacket, while Usha, 39, opted for a burgundy-colored turtleneck dress with matching suede heels.

The First Lady's jacket appeared to be designed by Blaze Milano, featuring various pockets of different sizes and tortoise-shell button detailing. It is currently on sale for $950 on Net-a-Porter, but was originally priced at $1,900.

She paired the look with a pair of chestnut-colored, heeled Christian Louboutin booties that included buckle detailing on the front.

Usha, on the other hand, opted for a figure-hugging, long-sleeve turtleneck dress in a warm burgundy color.

The dress, currently for sale at Ralph Lauren for $145, featured a long, draping tie belt at the waist.

The Second Lady completed the look with burgundy suede heels, black Ray-Ban sunglasses and statement earrings.
When Martin Bashir's notorious interview with the late Princess Diana aired 30 years ago, it was viewed by more than 20million people and hailed as a journalistic success.

It offered an unprecedented insight into the mental health of the Princess, her brief fling with Captain James Hewitt, alongside Prince Charles' affair with Camilla - issuing the famous line: 'there were three of us in this marriage.'

The 54-minute interview served as the final nail in the coffin for the Wales's relationship, with divorce papers filed less than a month later in light of guidance by the late Queen Elizabeth II.

Yet views on the 1995 interview have since changed - a 2021 inquiry into the intimate conversation by retired judge Lord Dyson, titled the Dyson Inquiry, revealed that Bashir had spun a great web of deceit in order to gain direct access to the Princess.

But even before such lies were exposed to the world, the interview was said to have had a detrimental impact on the Princess' relationship with her beloved son, Prince William.

Writing in Battle of Brothers, Robert Lacey described how when William, then aged 13, watched the interview alone in his housemaster, Dr Andrew Bailey's office at Eton, he was later found 'slumped on the sofa' with his 'eyes red with tears.'

Meanwhile, royal biographer Tina Brown revealed in her bestselling book Palace Papers that the late Queen Elizabeth II had even confided in a Palace source her fears that her beloved grandson 'might have a nervous breakdown.'

The interview could not have come at a worse time for the young Prince, who was just two months into his first term at the prestigious school and described as 'already in a fragile state' following the momentous fallout of his parent's separation.

Writing in Battle of Brothers, Robert Lacey described how when William, then aged 13, watched Princess Diana's 1995 interview with Martin Bashir and was later found by his school housemaster 'slumped on the sofa' with his 'eyes red with tears'

On the evening before the sensational interview was set to air, Dr Gailey had called the late Princess and urged her to speak to William in-person, insisting that it was 'imperative' he be prepared for the realities of the incoming broadcast.

'Is that really necessary?,' the late Princess had queried, according to royal expert Ingrid Seward.

Diana had previously travelled to William's former school, Ludgrove, for 'damage control' purposes - desperately trying to to comfort the young prince and his brother, Prince Harry, following Charles' devastating public admissions to Jonathan Dimbleby about the state of their marriage.

Ms Brown recalled how on October 17 1994, the pair were 'summoned to the headmaster's study for a meeting with Diana' in desperate need for 'answers'.

'According to Andrew Morton, William, then twelve, asked her "Is it true, Mother? Is it true that Daddy never loved you?".'

But in November 1995, it was Diana, rather than Charles, in the hotseat - with Dr Gailey calling the late Princess the next day, pleading that she make the journey to come and see her son in-person.

On November 19, William emerged from Eton's iconic 15th-century chapel and when his mother called out to him, he met her eyes with a 'sullen stare'.

Keeping his head down, the young Prince and Diana embarked on a 'mission' to have a private conversation about the sensational interview - with the pair said to have engaged in a short conversation behind a hedge in a desperate bid for privacy.

'After a few more moments, he walked away from Diana, making no attempt to kiss her or say goodbye,' paparazzo Mark Saunders, who had watched the interaction unfold, recalled.

When the interview aired, he reportedly told a fellow classmate that as soon as he saw his mother's face appear on screen he was 'overcome with a feeling of dread'. An hour later when Diana telephoned on the school's house phone, William refused to take her call

'I watched in amazement as she got into the car and drove off, leaving a sad William watching from the doorway,' he said.

Afterwards, she drove on to Ludgrove, Harry's prep school based half an hour away, to deliver the same message to him.

Diana was said to have promised William during their brief conversation that the interview would make him 'proud', according to royal biographer Sally Bedell Smith writing in Charles: The Misunderstood Prince.

Yet, the reality was to be quite the contrary - with the young prince said to have been left 'angry and incredulous' in its aftermath, according to Penny Junor's biography of William.

When the interview aired the following day, he reportedly told a fellow classmate that as soon as he saw his mother's face appear on screen he was 'overcome with a feeling of dread', while his brother had 'declined to watch the broadcast' altogether.

A tearful William had managed to pull himself together to rush back to his room. But an hour later when Diana telephoned on the house phone, he refused to take her call.

Lacey explains further how Diana did not initially consider how the interview would impact her boys, with according to Simone Simmons, the Princess's confidante and faith-healer, William was left particularly upset by 'the idea of everything being on television.'

William likely felt particularly hurt by the extent of personal details revealed in the landmark interview - a far cry from the royal trend of 'never complain, never explain' that no doubt would have been instilled in the young prince from birth.

Lacey explains further how Diana did not initially consider how the interview would impact her boys, with according to Simone Simmons, the Princess's confidante and faith-healer, William left particularly upset by 'the idea of everything being on television'

When the young prince returned home to Kensington Palace on the Saturday following the broadcast, he was 'so angry' with his mother. 'All hell broke loose. He started shouting and crying and, when she tried to put her arms around him, he shoved her away,' said Simmons

The late Princess shared the impact of the release of Anne Pasternak's tell-all book Princess in Love, based upon 64 of Diana's love letters to Captain James Hewitt, William and Harry's riding instructor.

Following the book's release, William was said to have produced a box of chocolates with the words, 'Mummy, I think you've been hurt These are able to make you smile again.'

And the 13-year-old boy was also likely ill-prepared for his mother to go on national television and say 'Yes, I adored him. Yes, I was in love with him' about her extramarital boyfriend.

'He knew his friends would poke fun at him, which they did. He felt she made a fool of herself - and of him,' said Simmons.

He felt a mixture of humiliation and fury that she had denigrated his father and had mentioned Hewitt.

When the young prince returned home to Kensington Palace on the Saturday following the broadcast, he was 'so angry' with his mother, a 'still weeping and distraught' Diana had revealed to Simmons.

'All hell broke loose. He was furious... that she had spoken badly of his father, furious that she had mentioned Hewitt... He started shouting and crying and, when she tried to put her arms around him, he shoved her away.'

While the following day William had apologised to his mother and presented her with flowers as a token of his apology, Diana was still convinced that the interview had irreversibly tainted their relationship.

While the following day William had apologised to his mother and presented her with flowers as a token of his apology, Diana was still convinced that the interview had irreversibly tainted their relationship. She tearfully asked Ms Simmons: 'What have I done to my children?'

A 2021 inquiry into the intimate conversation by retired judge Lord Dyson, titled the Dyson Inquiry, revealed that Bashir had spun a great web of deceit in order to gain direct access to the Princess. Both William and Harry received 'unconditional apology' letters from the BBC

She tearfully asked Ms Simmons: 'What have I done to my children?'

In the years that followed the interview, the inquiry revealed the true extent of deceit by Bashir - with the former BBC journalist found to have showed Earl Charles Spencer forged bank statements that falsely suggested individuals were being paid to keep the Princess under surveillance.

Alarmed, Charles introduced the journalist to his sister Diana.

Bashir was also found to have intentionally played on Diana's paranoia 'that she was being spied on' by telling her that she was being watched by MI6. He even presented her with a so-called 'abortion receipt' suggesting that Charles and the royal nanny, Tiggy Legge-Bourke, had an affair.

Although Bashir eventually admitted that he had shown Charles Spencer the forged bank statements thanks to the work of journalists at the Daily Mail and The Sunday Times, he maintained that Diana did not see them.

In her own words, Diana assured the BBC: 'Martin Bashir did not show me any documents, not give me any information that I was not previously aware of.

'I consented to the interview on Panorama without any undue pressure and have no regrets concerning the matter.' The word 'no' was underlined, as was her name.

Ms Brown, who was a close confidante of Diana, also firmly believes that the princess had 'no regrets' about the interview - despite it casting a long shadow over her sons.

William seems to have been unable to forgive the BBC for its behaviour over the Bashir saga, with the scars from his childhood staying firmly with him. In 2021, he issued a grave address on camera where he could not quite hide the fury that still haunted him

The 54-minute interview was the final nail in the coffin for the Wales's relationship, with divorce papers filed less than a month later following guidance by the late Queen. Revealing Charles' affair with Camilla, she issued the famous line: 'there were three of us in this marriage'

Certainly William seems to have been unable to forgive the BBC for its behaviour over the Bashir saga, with the scars from his childhood staying firmly with him. In 2021, he issued a grave address on camera where he could not quite hide the fury that still haunted him.

Following the enquiries findings, which he described as 'extremely concerning', the prince said: 'It is my view that the deceitful way the interview was obtained substantially influenced what my mother said.

'It brings indescrible sadness to know that the BBC's failures contributed significantly to her fear, paranoia and isolation that I remember from those final years with her.'

Revealing his firm feelings towards the interview, he concluded: 'This Panorama programme holds no legitimacy and should never be aired again. It effectively established a false narrative which, for over a quarter of a century, has been commercialised by the BBC and others.

'These failings not only let my mother down and my family down; they let the public down, too.'

Prince Harry added: 'The ripple effect of a culture of exploitation and unethical practices ultimately took her life.'

Meanwhile, Diana's brother, Charles Spencer, expressed his outrage at the institution's 'sheer dishonesty' in a devastating letter in 2020 - accusing Mr Bashir of 'yellow journalism'.

Mr Bashir apologised for the forged documents, stating 'it was a stupid thing to do and was an action I deeply regret', but insisted that 'the bank statements had no bearing whatsoever on the personal choice by Princess Diana to take part in the interview'. He resigned from the BBC in May 2021, citing health reasons.

The former BBC journalist showed Earl Charles Spencer forged bank statements and intentionally played on Diana's paranoia 'that she was being spied on' by telling her that she was being watched by MI6. He even presented her with a so-called 'abortion receipt'

Diana's brother, Charles Spencer, had introduced the princess to Bashir. In 2020, he expressed his outrage at the BBC's 'sheer dishonesty' in a devastating letter and accused Mr Bashir of 'yellow journalism'

In 2022, the BBC paid about 200,000 to royal nanny Tiggy Legge-Bourke and admitted she was subjected to 'baseless' smears by Bashir.

Both brothers received 'unconditional apology' letters from the BBC over Bashir's conduct and the 25-year cover-up and they promised to never show the interview again or license it to be used by another broadcaster.

Yet despite this, the Duke and Duchess of Sussex used snippets of the interview in their explosive Netflix docuseries Harry & Meghan, which aired in November 2022.

Midway through the first episode of the series, clips are shown of Princess Diana speaking to Bashir.

Before the clip is shown, Harry, speaking about his mother's struggles with press intrusion, says: 'I think she had a lived experience of how she was struggling living that life. She felt compelled to talk about it.

'Especially in that Panorama interview. I think we all now know that she was deceived into giving the interview. But at the same time she spoke the truth of her experience.'

Sources close to William at the time said he would have been 'furious' that his brother appeared to ignore his desperate plea that the Panorama interview never be aired again.

Following the scandalous 1995 interview, opinion polls showed that support for Diana was at a skyrocketing 92 per cent. 'She had the public in the palm of her hand,' Ms Brown wrote.

The royal author also suggested that she had spoken to British-Pakistani businessman Gulu Lalvani after the notorious interview and said: 'I'm glad I did it, I know the family didn't like it, but I'm glad.'

Yet while the late Princess may have had her own pragmatic reasons for conducting the interview, there is no denying that the cascade of confessions and barbed insults had a life-long impact on her sons - particularly on her beloved William.
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If you're hoping to bring a touch of regal magic to your Christmas this year, you might be interested to know that the Christmas tree tradition has royal origins.

Queen Charlotte, the German-born consort of George III, introduced the custom to Britain in 1800 with a festive yew tree displayed at Queen's Lodge, Windsor, for a Christmas Day celebration she hosted for local children. The idea quickly took hold, and she continued the practice across royal residences.

This tradition left a lasting impression on Charlotte's granddaughter, Princess Victoria, who, during her teenage years, wrote fondly in her diaries about the Christmas trees at Kensington Palace.

After Victoria became Queen, she and her husband Prince Albert cemented the Christmas tree as the centrepiece of British celebrations. An iconic 1848 illustration published in The Illustrated London News, depicting the Royal Family gathered around their beautifully decorated fir tree, set the trend for households across the nation.

Today, the Christmas tree remains the focal point of many homes during the festive season, making it well worth taking the time to choose the right one.

I spoke to Mac Harman, CEO of Balsam Hill, and David Sumner, Sales Manager at Christmas Tree World, for their advice on finding the perfect tree - along with my top picks to shop now.

Three things to consider when choosing an artificial Christmas tree

1. Size and space

The most important factor is deciding where your tree will go, as this has the biggest impact on which style will work best.

Once you've chosen the spot, it's time to measure up. 'In terms of height, I'd recommend selecting a tree around six inches (15cm) lower than your ceiling,' says Mr Harman. 'For example, a 7.5 ft tree works well for an 8 ft ceiling, leaving enough room for a tree topper.'

He also notes that real tree width tends to be about six inches less than the stated diameter. If space is limited, slimline styles, such as Balsam Hill's Alpine, offer lush greenery in a narrower silhouette.

Meanwhile, miniature trees are ideal for tabletops or for children who would love a tree of their own to decorate. My favourite options include John Lewis' 3ft Cotswold Potted Pre-lit Tree and M&S' 1.5ft Pre-Lit Pine and Berries Tree.

2. Realism

'Artificial Christmas trees are a great, cost-effective alternative to the real thing, and when chosen carefully, they can look just as magical,' says Mr Sumner.

He explains that realism largely comes down to materials. 'The material of the branches is key to achieving a realistic appearance. Polyethylene branches offer a super-realistic three-dimensional look as they are moulded from real tree branches.

'PVC branches can also look very realistic - just be sure to assess their length and width, as well as the material, to ensure you're getting the best quality for your money.'

My top picks include Christmas Tree World's Devonshire style, which makes a real statement with its bushy branches and vibrant multi-coloured lights. It's a brilliant choice if you want your tree to feel instantly festive without much effort.

If you prefer something more traditional, Balsam Hill's Pre-lit European Fir offers a classic silhouette with evenly distributed warm lights that create a cosy glow.

And for a touch of luxury, John Lewis' St. Petersburg Pre-lit Christmas Tree is another standout. Its perfectly shaped branches and twinkling LEDs give it a polished look that elevates any room.

3. Colour

The colour of your tree's branches is another important factor to consider when aiming for a natural look. Artificial trees with subtle variation in their green tones mimic the depth and dimension of real firs.

Mr Sumner recommends steering clear of overly bright greens and instead opting for dark, waxy tones or soft peashoot shades - as seen in Christmas Tree World's Matterhorn Pine.

For alternative colour variations, Balsam Hill's Royal Blue Spruce has blue-green needles, while Habitat's Upswept Tree offers lifelike pine-needle branches.

For a classic look, M&S' deep green tree comes pre-decorated with red berries and pine cones, along with 200 mains-powered LED lights to create a warm white glow.

'Generally speaking, the natural hues of evergreens suit any space,' Mr Harman notes. 'But if you're after something different, frosted trees are fantastic for making your ornaments really stand out. I'd recommend pairing them with warm lighting to prevent the tree from feeling too cold.'
Royal Lodge has a special significance for the couple, who married in 2020

What a difference a year makes.

This time last year, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor was planning to give Royal Lodge a makeover - and sought his son-in-law Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi's design advice, it was reported.

Andrew will no longer be sampling paint swatches but, rather, packing up his belongings after King Charles stripped him of his prince title and ousted him from the sprawling 30-room mansion over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein.

Princess Beatrice's property developer husband, who turns 42 today, was seen visiting the royal residence at Great Windsor Park in Berkshire several times last November.

At the time, the Mail on Sunday reported that Andrew - then still a prince, although precariously - was so chuffed he had been allowed to stay on at the home in Great Windsor Park that he began planning large-scale renovations.

Sources told this newspaper that Mr Mapelli Mozzi was advising Andrew, 65, on how to modernise the sprawling 17th-century property that he and ex-wife Sarah Ferguson have called home since 2008.

Edo, who is the founder and creative director of Banda Property, was certainly well-suited to help Andrew, under whose care the manor fell into a state of extraordinary disrepair.

Ahead of the Mail on Sunday's report that the pair were discussing plans for a new and improved Royal Lodge, this newspaper reported that the 30 million property was in a sorry state - with cracks and mould appearing on the outer wall.

This time last year, Andrew Mountbatten Windsor (not pictured) was planning to give Royal Lodge a makeover - and sought his son-in-law Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi's design advice. Edo, as he prefers to be known, is seen here with Beatrice at a London event in July 2019

Andrew (centre left) will no longer be sampling paint swatches but, rather, packing up his belongings after King Charles stripped him of his prince title and ousted him from the sprawling 30-room mansion over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. From left to right: Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi, Andrew, Mike Tindall, Sarah Ferguson, the Princess Royal and Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence at a thanksgiving service for the life of King Constantine of the Hellenes at St George's Chapel last year

A royal source was reported as admitting there is 'a lot of work that needs doing' to the property in Windsor Great Park, and the cost of repairs is likely to affect the amount of compensation he receives.

The alleged renovation plans will have since been abandoned, as Andrew prepares to move out of the Royal Lodge and begin his new chapter as a commoner.

He will move into a private residence on the King's Sandringham estate in Norfolk after Charles issued a rare Letters Patent formally removing the ex-duke's titles and HRH.

As the father-of-three turns a year older, it is likely the family's celebrations will be subdued ahead of Andrew's banishment from Royal Lodge.

Edo shares two daughters with Beatrice - Sienna, who turned four in September, and baby Athena, who was born several weeks pre-term in January this year. He also shares son Christopher Woolf - known affectionately as Wolfie - with his ex Dara Huang.

Beatrice often refers to Wolfie as her 'bonus son'.

Since the scandal surrounding his father-in-law crescendoed into a full-blown crisis for the Royal Family, Edo has made just one public appearance.

On November 13, he accompanied Beatrice to Battersea Power Station in London for an event for Borne, a birth research charity.

Edo and Beatrice smile in their sweet engagement photograph that was released on September 26, 2019

They tied the knot at the Royal Chapel of All Saints at Royal Lodge on July 19, 2020. The couple are seen here with the late Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip on their wedding day in a handout photo issued by Buckingham Palace

It was Beatrice's second outing since her father's disgrace, after the royal toured Borne's research laboratories at Chelsea and Westminster Hospital.

The hospital, and the charity, hold a special place in her heart as it's where she gave birth to Athena in January, weighing 4lb 5 oz.

If his social media feed is anything to go by, Edo also remains steadfastly focused on his work, as Banda Property's founder and creative director continues to promote the firm's recent, multi-million dollar developments online.

During the early days of his relationship with Princess Beatrice, Edoardo Mapelli Mozzi kept a relatively low profile.

Royal fans would have to wait a whole year before the couple's first photos together, taken on their engagement, were shared by the Italian property developer in September 2019.

He shared a tasteful series of black and white pictures taken by Misan Harriman, the Meghan Markle-approved photographer who immortalised many of the Sussexes' milestones.

Edo shared a heartfelt message with the pictures, which read: 'You will never be alone my love, my heart is your home. Hand in hand, today, tomorrow and forever,' adding a ring emoji to signal their engagement.

Soon after he shared the engagement pictures, Edo resumed posting sleek pictures of his interior design projects.

The property tycoon shared his wedding pictures on July 19 2020, two days after he and Beatrice tied the knot in front of the Queen and the late Duke of Edinburgh in Windsor.

When their engagement was announced six years ago, Andrew and Fergie (centre) described their future son-in-law as 'a completely devoted friend and loyal young man'

Even after that, Edo, as he prefers to be known, rarely shared any personal updates - preferring, instead, to showcase the multi-million pound homes that are part of Banda's portfolio.

The news that Beatrice was pregnant was announced by the Royal household, and Edo made no mention of it on his Instagram account.

However, on July 17 2021, he shared a selfie of him and Beatrice to mark their first wedding anniversary, followed a month later by another selfie, this time in black and white, to mark her 32nd birthday.

Edo's posts about his royal life were few and far between on social media, up until September 2021, when his and Beatrice's daughter Sienna was born.

He wrote in the caption: 'Our life together has just begun, and I cant wait to see all the amazing things that await us.

Slowly, the son of former Olympic skier, Count Alessandro Mapelli Mozzi, and English mother, Nikki Williams-Ellis, became less guarded about his personal life online and frequently used Instagram to gush about his family.

When his and Beatrice's second daughter Athena Elizabeth Rose was born at the start of 2025, the proud father declared 'we are all completely besotted with her' in a sweet post.

They welcomed their second child together, Athena Elizabeth Rose in January this year

Their first child, daughter Sienna Elizabeth Mapelli Mozzi was born on September 18, 2021

In the wake of Andrew's public expulsion from the royal fold, it appears Edo has reverted to his earlier social media policy, with more recent Instagram posts focusing solely on his company, Banda Property.

In fact, Edo has kept his profile strictly business since August 8, when he wished 'my BEAUTIFUL wife' Beatrice on the occasion of her 37th birthday.

While they have rarely been spotted together, Edo's family had been friends with the Yorks for several years before his relationship with Beatrice began in 2018.

When their engagement was announced six years ago, Andrew and Fergie described their future son-in-law as 'a completely devoted friend and loyal young man' in a statement to the BBC.

Fergie, writing on X/Twitter, praised Edo and younger daughter Eugenie's husband Jack Brooksbank as 'great son-in-laws' as she gushed 'Andrew and I are just the luckiest people ever'.

It comes amid reports Fergie is preparing to swap Windsor for Eugenie and Jack's 3.6million mansion in the 'Hamptons of Europe' on Portugal's Atlantic coast this winter - as the fallout over the Yorks' ties with Epstein continues.

Princess Eugenie and her husband Jack Brooksbank are said to have prepared a 'grand suite' in their oceanfront villa for the 66-year-old to settle down after getting kicked out of Royal Lodge.

'The word here is that Fergie will be arriving sometime in January', one wealthy neighbour of Eugenie and Jack has said.

The former Duchess of York has lived with her ex-husband Andrew since 2008 despite the pair divorcing in 1996.

But unlike Andrew, who will move into a property on the private Sandringham estate in Norfolk, Fergie will now go it alone and make her own living arrangements, it is understood.
Marius Borg Hiby, the stepson of the future Norwegian King, has lost his legal case against the publishers of a controversial new book claiming he's linked to some of Europe's 'most notorious drug gangs'.

Hvite striper, sorte far - which translates to 'White Stripes, Black Sheep' - has caused a storm in Norway since it was published on October 20.

Published by Aschehoug Publishing House and written by investigative journalists istein Monsen and Torgeir Pedersen Krokfjord, it discusses 'cocaine, drug gangs, and the Crown Princess's son'.

Hiby, 28, is the son of Crown Princess Mette and has often been referred to as the 'black sheep' of the royal family. He has previously admitted to issues with cocaine and alcohol use, represented by the 'white stripes' depicted on the front cover.

He is already facing charges of rape and sexual assault, with a trial set to begin in January.

One of the book's main claims centres around allegations that Hiby sold drugs at Karl John's Gate in Oslo in 2023.

His representatives have denied the claims, while police chief Police Chief Ida Melbo ystese denied that the police had observed him doing so.

This week, the Oslo District Court rejected Hiby's request for a temporary injunction to halt sales of the book until 'necessary edits' had been made.

Marius Borg Hiby has been hit by claims in a controversial new book alleging links to some of Europe's most notorious drug gangs (pictured with his mother Crown Princess Mette-Marit in 2022)

Hvite striper, sorte far - which translates to 'White Stripes, Black Sheep' - has caused a storm in Norway since it was published on October 20

Hiby is now set to pay 530,500 kroner in legal costs, with 460,000 going to Aschehoug and a further 70,500 to the Norwegian Publishers' Association. This must be paid in the next two weeks and is in addition to his own legal fees.

Mads Nygaard, the publisher of Aschehoug, told VG following the decision: 'This is an important decision, not only for this case, but for freedom of expression in Norway.'

Following the decision, as reported in Dagbladet, Hiby's lawyer said: 'We note that the court agrees with us that the claim about cocaine sales on Karl Johan is highly offensive and lacks a sufficient factual basis, and that the court has doubts about the legality of the use of images on the book's cover.

'We take note that the court nevertheless believes that the book should not be stopped.'

Guri Varpe, Head of Communications at the Palace, told Se og Hor that the legal costs won't be paid by the 'royal court nor the crown couple'.

The book will continue to be sold in Norway and beyond.

After it was published, Hiby hired lawyers to request a petition for a temporary injunction, saying the book contained privacy violations 'far beyond what can be accepted' as well as 'serious insults and false allegations'.

Hiby demanded that Anchehoug should be prevented from selling the book and that books already on sale should be withdrawn until necessary edits were made. He also sought compensation.

Princess Ingrid Alexandra, Marius Borg Hoiby, Crown Prince Haakon and Crown Princess Mette-Marit attend the celebrations of Princess Ingrid Alexandra's Official Day in 2022

Hiby has been open about his drug use in the past. In a statement following his initial arrest for violence, threats, and vandalism in August last year, he admitted to having issues surrounding cocaine and alcohol use. He said that he would receive treatment for the problem.

He wrote at the time: 'I have several mental disorders which mean that throughout my upbringing and adult life, I have had, and still have, challenges.'

The son of Crown Princess Mette-Marit said he wanted to be 'responsible for what he had done' and 'explain himself truthfully to police'.

'Something happened that should never have happened. I committed bodily harm and destroyed objects in an apartment in the intoxication of alcohol and cocaine after an argument,' he said.

At the end of October, he started rehabilitation treatment for substance abuse, his lawyers confirmed to TV 2 Norway.

Hiby is Crown Princess Mette-Marit's son from a previous relationship. She and Prince Haakon also share two children: Princess Ingrid and her younger brother, Prince Sverre Magnus, 19.

Once known affectionately as 'Little Marius', Hiby grew up in the public eye, enjoying the same wealth and privilege as his royal siblings, although his biological father, Morten Borg, served time in prison for drugs and violent offences.

In August, Hiby was charged with 32 offences, including rape.

On all occasions, Hiby allegedly assaulted the women while they were sleeping and filmed the assaults. The assaults also allegedly occurred after Hiby and the women had consensual intercourse.

He has also been charged with making death threats, assaulting a public official, and violating the Road Traffic Act.

Presenting the indictment in August, public prosecutor Sturla Henriksb told NRK that he will face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison following a six-week trial in January.

Henriksb said: 'This case is very serious. Rape and violence in close relationships are very serious acts that can leave lasting traces and destroy lives.'

He later had his diplomatic passport revoked, according to reports, shortly after he enjoyed a five-day holiday in Portugal with his stepfather Prince Haakon and with his half-brother Prince Sverre Magnus.

The case was top news in Norway, where the royals are popular.

Crown Prince Haakon has also addressed the charges, telling NRK in November last year: 'Today, of course, we are thinking of all those affected.'

The prince also said the police and legal system should now 'be given room to do their job', which he 'trusts' will be done in a 'good way'.

In an interview with NRK, Norway's public broadcasting group on Christmas Day, the Crown Princess said: 'If I had to choose one word for this year, it would be 'challenging'.'

'It has been a demanding year and a demanding autumn for us,' Princess Mette-Marit added.

Following the incident, Hiby became the first ever royal family member to have been charged with a crime and is no longer publicly listed as part of the Scandinavian household.

The claims have taken a hit on the royal family, with backing for the household falling from 81 percent in 2017 to 62 percent last September.

The Daily Mail has reached out to the Norwegian Palace and representatives for Marius Borg Hiby for comment.
Queen Camilla attended the Diplomatic Corps reception at Windsor Castle last night, wearing a glittering tiara that immediately turned heads - and not just because of the dazzling emeralds inset.

Her Majesty, 78, beamed in the striking Greville Emerald Kokoshnik Tiara, which Princess Eugenie borrowed from the late Queen Elizabeth for her wedding day in 2018

Estimated by jewellers to be worth 10 million, King Charles is understood to have inherited the tiara following his mother's death.

The distinctive piece, which many fans will recognise from the nuptials of Andrew Mountbatten-Windsor's daughter, features 'rose-cut pave diamonds set in platinum'.

It's relatively rare for a royal to re-wear another family member's wedding tiara, save for a few exceptions. For instance, a queen or princess may pass it down to their daughter.

Elsewhere, the Princess of Wales has chosen the Lotus Flower Tiara, worn by Serena, Countess of Snowdon as a bride - although it is more often seen as a tribute to Princess Margaret, who the piece belonged to before her death.

Camilla's outing last night marks the first time the tiara had been worn in public since Eugenie tied the knot to Jack Brooksbank seven years ago.

It has been a challenging few weeks for the princess, whose father, the former Duke of York, was recently stripped of his prince title and ousted from the sprawling 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge, over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein. However, his daughters retain their princess titles.

The Daily Mail has reached out to Buckingham Palace for comment.

The Queen opted for an unusual accessory - as she donned the same tiara Princess Eugenie wore on her wedding day to a Diplomatic Corps reception at Windsor Castle last night

Camilla's outing last night marks the first time the tiara had been worn in public since Eugenie - whose father, the former Duke of York, was recently stripped of his prince title and ousted from the sprawling 30-room mansion, Royal Lodge, over his ties to paedophile financier Jeffrey Epstein - tied the knot seven years ago

Maxwell Stone, of leading UK jeweller Steven Stone, shared that the accessory's remarkable value comes from the centre, which features a 93.7-carat cabochon.

'We previously estimated the distinctive diamond and emerald headpiece - made by the French jeweller, Boucheron in 1919  to be worth 10 million, making it the most expensive of all the tiaras weve studied,' he explained.

This was created in the fashionable 'kokoshnik' style popularised in the Russian Imperial Court.

'Wearing emeralds is said to promote friendship, peace, harmony, and domestic bliss by enabling the wearer to both give and receive unconditional love. In ancient Greece and Rome, emerald was said to be the gemstone of the goddess of love, Venus,' the expert continued.

'Its original owner was Dame Margaret Greville, a famous society hostess who, upon her death, left her jewels to the Queen Mother.

'When the Queen Mother passed away in 2002, much of that collection, including the Kokoshnik tiara, went to Queen Elizabeth II. In 2018, the late monarch lent it to Princess Eugenie for her wedding day - making it the most extravagant "something borrowed" in royal history.'

The King and Queen were joined by the Prince of Wales for the annual gathering for members of the Diplomatic Corps on Tuesday night.

Kate, however, who last attended the event in 2023, just months before her cancer diagnosis, was not present.

Camilla was dressed in a cream embroidered dress by Fiona Clare, her diamond serpent necklace and diamond Van Cleef and Arpels earrings.

Elsewhere, both Charles and William opted to wear a traditional Windsor Coat with its distinctive red collar and cuffs.

The garment is only worn at the Berkshire castle, and the custom dates back to the reign of King George III, who adopted the idea from Frederick the Great, who used to dress his staff in a combination of a navy coat with red embellishments.

Charles also opted for traditional knee breeches and buckled shoes, while William wore classic trousers instead.

It is the first time the diplomatic reception has been hosted in Windsor for 24 years, with Buckingham Palace saying the last occasion was in 2001.

The late Queen had been due to stage the event there early in 2022, but it was postponed due to the conflict in Ukraine, and later took place at Buckingham Palace a few months into the Kings reign.

The reception celebrates the presence in London of one of the largest Diplomatic Corps in the world.

Hundreds of representatives of countries accredited to the Court of St James were welcomed to the castle dressed in their finery for the showcase of the UKs diplomatic year.

The evening usually includes a buffet supper and dancing.

Foreign ambassadors and high commissioners based in the UK, their spouses or partners, and diplomatic staff were among those who were entertained.
Princess Charlene of Monaco was the picture of elegance in an all-white ensemble as she and her husband celebrated Monaco's National Day this afternoon.

The glamorous royal, 47, lived up to her title Her Serene Highness as she joined Prince Albert of Monaco, 67, for morning mass at the Our Lady Immaculate Cathedral.

Later, the couple were joined by their 10-year old twins to wave at crowds of wellwishers from the Palace balcony, dressed to the nines as they took in the festivities below.

Paying homage to the country's colours, Charlene was sleek in a tailored ivory suit while Albert looked smart in military regalia.

Matching his father, young Crown Prince Jacques too was formal in an outfit with emblems and navy trousers with a red stripe down the side, while Princess Gabriella contrasted her mother in a pretty red frock.

Every year, on November 19, Monegasques and residents of the principality celebrate by waving their flags, and often start commemorating the occasion with a fireworks show the evening before.

Also in attendance today was Charlotte Casiraghi, the 38-year-old daughter of Princess Caroline, who was dressed in a flattering yellow tweed blazer.

She was joined by her son Balthazar Rassam, seven, her brother Pierre Casiraghi, 38, and his wife Beatrice Borromeo, 40, who was dressed in grey.

Princess Charlene and Prince Albert were joined by their twins, Crown Prince Jacques and Princess Gabriella, both 10, as the family waved to well-wishers from the palace balcony

Princess Charlene looked effortlessly elegant in an ivory power suit which she paired with a fascinator with a netted veil

The family marked Monaco's National Day by attending a ceremony and taking in the views from their palace

In early October, Beatrice and Pierre welcomed their first daughter together.

At the start of this month, the couple, who also share sons Stefano, eight, and Franceso, seven, welcomed their little girl, naming her Bianca Carolina Marta.

Her name pays tribute to two of the couple's family members, Paris Match reported, with Carolina being a nod to Pierre's mother, Princess Caroline. However, they appeared to have left their newborn at home for today's celebrations.

Marta, meanwhile, honours Beatrice's maternal grandmother, Marta Marzotto, an Italian fashion designer.

Beatrice, who was once crowned the 'most stylish European royal' by Tatler, is the daughter of Italian aristocrat Don Carlo Ferdinando and married into the Monaco royal family in 2015.

She tied the knot with Pierre, the youngest child of Princess Caroline and grandson of the late Hollywood actress Grace Kelly, in a lavish wedding hailed as the 'chicest of the summer' by Vogue.

Prior to marrying Pierre, Beatrice, whose family owns the Borromean Islands in Lake Maggiore near Milan, along with land in the Lombardy and Piedmont countryside, worked as a newspaper and broadcast journalist in her native Italy.

Princess Caroline of Hanover, 68, was also in attendance today, looking chic in a plum overcoat and, like Charlene and Gabriella, also had a medal pinned to her lapel.

She honoured Monaco's flag by wearing a satin cherry red hairband, as she watched a ceremony to mark National Day.

National Monaco Day is also known as The Sovereign Prince's Day, and the date of the celebration is chosen by the reigning Prince. Traditionally, the Princes chose the day of the saint they are named after.

But when Prince Albert inherited the title, he decided to choose the same day as his father rather than the day of Saint Albert, which would have been November 15.
The Duke of Sussex has announced his latest role  and it's one that's likely to raise some eyebrows among his old friends.

Prince Harry will give a keynote speech at a conference in Canada. But in his DailyMail+ column this week, diary editor and royal expert Richard Eden will reveal the full story behind Harry's paid gig, and why it's far from straightforward.

To read the column for free, sign up to our Palace Confidential newsletter  written by Richard, royal editor Rebecca English and eminent journalists including Richard Kay, Robert Hardman and Charlotte Griffiths. Sign up below:

Making his mark: Prince Harry spoke at an event honouring Canada's military this month

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The King visited Fortnum & Mason's kitchens this afternoon to mark the second anniversary of his 'Coronation Food Project' - which has helped to rescue thousands of tonnes of excess produce to be redistributed to those in need.

A staggering eleven million extra portions have been delivered nationwide since the initiative was started in 2023, as a lasting legacy of Charles's ascent to the throne.

The monarch, 77, was particularly keen to address the urgent challenge of tackling hunger in vulnerable communities.

To strengthen the food distribution networks and ensure these resources reach the people who need it, 20 million has also been raised to supercharge efforts.

Commemorating the initiative, Charles made an appearance at the upmarket department store - a royal warrant holder - which provides daily food collections to the initiative from its Piccadilly store.

Last year alone, this amounted to the equivalent of approximately 10,200 meals.

He was today escorted by Baroness Louise Casey of Blackstock, Founder of the Coronation Food Project, and Dame Martina Milburn, the project's chair.

Inside, the King was shown a selection of some of the meals and products distributed, including everything from cereals to fresh meat and vegetables.

The King visited Fortnum & Mason's kitchens this afternoon to mark the second anniversary of his 'Coronation Food Project' - which has helped to rescue thousands of tonnes of excess produce to be redistributed to those in need.

Baroness Martina (right) and Dame Louise (left) showed the royal a selection of the meals and products that are distributed to those in need including lasagne, fresh meat and vegetables

The king met Charlie Bingham (pictured right) who spoke passionately about the work his eponymous firm does to reduce food waste

Heading straight to the kitchen, Charles met Felix Project chefs who had been producing canapes from surplus foodstuffs

The king chatted animatedly to the chefs about their work before posing for a photograph behind the counter, joking to photographers: 'Thank God I didn't have to drink a huge glass of beer for you all!'

He then talked to chief executives and senior leaders from Alliance Food Sourcing - a collaborative group which is leading to systemic change in the food production and retail sector as regarding the reuse of waste food.

Charles also spoke to representatives from food rescue charities including The Felix Project and FareShare, alongside manufacturers such as 2 Sisters Food Group and Greencore.

Tesco, Sainsbury's, Waitrose and Marks & Spencer were also present in conversations about how they plan to sustain momentum and build on the progress achieved over the past two years.

Among the culinary VIPs in attendance was Charlie Bingham, who spoke passionately to the King about the work his eponymous firm - which produces high quality, ready-meals for more than a million consumers a week - does to repurpose surplus foodstuffs from the cooking process, as well as unwanted finished meals.

He said afterwards: 'The waste each year from the food industry could feed three million people in the UK three meals a day. It's a huge issue which we have been doing our best to tackle for around eight years now.

'Using the leftover rice, say, from a chicken tikka masala, repackaging it and sending out to these food projects. Instead of congratulating ourselves as an industry for sending it to an anaerobic digester, we could be feeding people.

'What the King and the Royal Family do so well is using their extraordinary power to convene people.

'There are a lot of people doing good work in this field but it helps focus, galvanise and bring different groups and organisations together. It brings things up a notch or two. '

The king met with Baroness Louise Casey of Blackstock, Founder of the Coronation Food Project (far left) and Dame Martina Milburn, the project's chair

King Charles was spotted at upmarket London food store Fortnum & Mason - a royal warrant holder - to mark the second anniversary of his Coronation Food Project

The King arrived at the store dressed in a smart black double breasted coat and braved the rain as he smiled and shook hands crowds gathered outside

His Majesty moved into the kitchen where Felix Project trainee chefs had been producing incredible canapes from surplus foodstuffs such as egg mayonnaise, milk buns and dainty sausage rolls.

The Felix Project is a key partner of the Coronation Food Project.

Charles was animated as he chatted to staff about their work before posing for a photograph behind the counter, joking to photographers: 'Thank God I didn't have to drink a huge glass of beer for you all!'

In a short speech Baroness Casey told him: 'Two years later there are 50 businesses involved 20 million raised.and eleven million meals have been created by what you inspired, you began and what you launched two years ago, so we are enormously grateful to you. '

The King said: 'We are always enormously grateful to you and your experience.'

Handed an impact report about the project's work, he smiled and said: 'So this is proof?'

He added to the crowd: 'I am sorry to add to all your woes but there's still a great more to do.'

Downstairs on the ground floor of the store, the King shocked shoppers and tourists by walking around the confectionary stands, chatting happily, shaking hands and wishing people a Happy Christmas.

The King shocked London shoppers as he strolled in to the store to discuss food waste prevention initiatives

Following his time at Fortnum & Mason, Charles went on an impromptu walkabout outside near his State Bentley as people shouted his name

He also embarked on an impromptu walkabout outside near his State Bentley as wellwishers gathered nearby.

Speaking afterwards Dame Martina said: 'None of this would have happened if it hadn't been for His Majesty. It was his idea and he and the Queen both agreed this would be the project for their coronation.

'I think I literally got a call one Sunday morning asking would I look at food waste and see if something could be done about it and the Coronation Food Project was born.

'The King is always a huge draw, if he says he wants a meeting then people will attend. In fairness to those involved, such as the supermarkets and the manufacturers, it really fits in with what they want to do. So when you have those two things involved, it's a win win.

'As the King said, though, we still have a lot more to do. Food banks are telling us they are running out of food and yet we are still throwing so much away. This is a small step in the right direction. '

The UK wastes more than 10 million tonnes of food per year, while almost one in seven households lives with food insecurity.

The Coronation Food Project now operates hubs in Merseyside, Birmingham, and London. In addition, the Felix Food Factory in Deptford turns bulk surplus into nutritious products for community groups across the capital and beyond.

Through its grants programme, administered by King Charles III Charitable Fund, the Coronation Food Project has awarded 907,990 to 33 organisations tackling food waste and food insecurity nationwide, helping them scale their operations and amplify their impact.

Charlotte Hill OBE, Chief Executive of The Felix Project said: 'Thousands of community organisations rely on the food that is saved and circulated by FareShare and The Felix Project.

'So, it's vital that we find new ways of getting more surplus food into the system. The Coronation Food Project is doing just that, at a scale and pace which is quite extraordinary.'
The Sloane Ranger aesthetic is enjoying a quiet renaissance. And at its centre, guiding the revival with elegance and unspoken authority, is the Princess of Wales.

When Kate stepped out in an ivory silk blouse to open the Future Workforce Summit, she made a deliberate nod to the aesthetic that shaped a young Princess Diana.

The cascading ruffles of the Knatchbull design echoed the precise elements that made Diana's Sloane-era style so distinctive - and Kate's interpretation mirrors that spirit with a distinctly modern twist.

But this style moment didn't appear out of nowhere. The clues have been building quietly for months, outfit by outfit, bow by bow, pleat by pleat.

Think back to her graceful ensemble chosen to meet Melania Trump: a corduroy jacket and a tweed midi skirt. It was classic Kate, of course, the perfect balancing act of modern and traditional, yet it also spoke fluent Sloane.

The length, the stiffness, the inherently proper modesty; it was the kind of skirt that would not have looked out of place in the pages of Tatler circa 1987, arranged next to a black cab and a Filofax.

Stepping out with Melania Trump in September, Kate chose a ladylike Ralph Lauren tweed midi skirt, which she teamed with an olive ME+EM jacket, cashmere sweater and a scarf from Sudbury Mill tied in a large bow

Opening the Future Workforce Summit, Kate wore a slim-cut Roland Mouret suit in pale-grey wool, paired with a Smythson handbag and a Sloaney Knatchbull blouse with a cascading ruffle down the front

Princess Diana's almost identical blouse made an appearance in Vancouver in 1986

Then there was the Alessandra Rich tartan dress. With its puff sleeves, pleated skirt and frilled collar, it could have been lifted straight from Princess Diana's early wardrobe.

Yet Kate, with her keen sense for reinvention, made this look entirely her own. It was heritage dressing with a crisp modernity, a nod to the past without slipping into costume.

What makes Kate's Sloane revival so compelling is that it feels deliberate but never forced. This is not a princess trapped by nostalgia. Instead, Kate appears to be drawing from a style vocabulary that feels both meaningful and strategic.

In an era where fashion is louder, faster, and more disposable than ever, she has chosen to return to the understated codes that once defined an entire subsection of British high society.

It's a style rooted in heritage checks, pussybow blouses, swishy midi skirts, and sensible heels - soft, feminine silhouettes that broadcast quiet privilege rather than shouty affluence.

And perhaps it's no coincidence that Kate was born in 1982 - the very year The Official Sloane Ranger Handbook was published, setting out the social rules and fashion commandments of the young aristocratic set that helped shape Princess Diana's early public image.

For Kate's visit to the Inner Hebrides in April she wore one of Diana's favourite collar styles, the pie crust. The princess layered her Boden shirt under a cashmere sweater and Ralph Lauren tweed jacket to complete the country casual ensemble

Lady Diana Spencer visited Tetbury shortly after her engagement to Prince Charles and wore a Jasper Conran suit with a pie-crust collar blouse very similar to the one Kate wore in Scotland

Puff sleeves, pleated skirt and a frilled collar, Kate's Alessandra Rich tartan dress looked like it was lifted from Princess Diana's Sloaney wardrobe as she visited the Women's Institute in Sunningdale in September

Of course, Princess Diana herself was the original Sloane Ranger par excellence.

Before she became the most photographed woman in the world, she was simply Diana Spencer, a Sloane girl with a penchant for pie-crust collars, and a wardrobe full of the kind of clothes that signalled class without ever appearing ostentatious.

Her look combined countryside innocence with Chelsea chic, producing an aesthetic that became iconic long before fashion houses began referencing it on runways.

Kate, meanwhile, offers a different kind of Sloane story. Where Diana's Sloane style was organic, Kate's is curated, a conscious nod to heritage, lineage, and soft power.
Whispers of a 'Mamdani effect' have echoed among real estate agents in the Northeast, with many attesting to an exodus of New Yorkers to neighboring Connecticut suburbs.

Zohran Mamdani's recent mayoral win has shaken the city, and his unlikely rise to power has some real estate experts speculating that residents may swap the concrete jungle for suburban life.

Mamdani is a self-described democratic socialist and ran on an affordability agenda, including freezing rents, raising the minimum wage, implementing government-run grocery stores, and universal child care.

The mayor-elect has repeatedly defended his policies and assured that his platform won't raise the cost of living for New Yorkers; however, some have still threatened to leave the city after his win.

Marilyn Profit, a Coldwell Banker real estate agent, told Connecticut CBS affiliate WFSB that she's received an uptick in calls from 'very concerned' New Yorkers looking to relocate to the neighboring state.

'Even the agents are saying the same thing, that they're seeing more of an uptick in calls for New Yorkers wanting to buy in Connecticut,' she said.

Profit also noted that, typically, New Yorkers flee to affluent neighborhoods along the coast near the city, but recently, there's been interest across the state.

'Normally, they have a targeted area that they're looking in, whether it's Norwalk or Stamford or New Haven or Bridgeport, but now they're broadening their areas of location, just trying to find something decent.'

Michelle Griffith, a luxury real estate agent at Douglas Elliman in New York City, told the Daily Mail that she's also seen interest from New York buyers looking at Connecticut markets, and local brokers have seen increased traffic to the state.

Real estate agents warned of a 'Mamdani effect' after the democratic socialist was elected mayor of New York

Some agents predicted a mass exodus of wealthy New Yorkers fleeing the city for suburban life in towns like Greenwich, Connecticut (pictured)

Greenwich (pictured) has emerged as a hot spot for city dwellers, with real estate agents reporting a recent uptick in interest

However, she cautioned that the story is more nuanced, noting that city planning data shows consistent year-over-year population growth.

'Put simply, a handful of buyers reassessing options or wealthier New Yorkers buying second homes in Connecticut, is not the same as a structural hit to NYC real estate,' Griffith added.

Southern Fairfield County has long attracted wealthy New Yorkers looking to start families in the suburbs while remaining close to the city.

However, Marcus Santore, a realtor for Martin Santore Realty LLC, echoed Profit's sentiment that interest has expanded to other countries further from New York.

He told WFSB that he's currently working on a listing for $1.4 million in Litchfield, a small town West of Hartford.

'I've had more action on it in the last week than I've had in the past three months, including negotiating an offer on the property, and the buyers do come from New York.'

Recent data shows that buyers are looking to relocate to suburban areas, with Realtor.com's October Housing Report concluding that, although the national market has cooled, suburban pockets are hot.

Contracts in the affluent coastal suburb of Greenwich have 'gone up sharply' over recent weeks, Compass luxury real estate agent Mark Pruner told Realtor.com this month.

Real estate agents have cautioned against exaggerations, noting that some new Connecticut residents have moved for non-political reasons (Pictured: Greenwich, Connecticut) (file photo)

Pruner told the outlet that several listings sold hundreds of thousands over asking price, including a $2.4 million home that sold for $2.96 million in just five days.

Jennifer Crowley, a real estate broker in Connecticut, also with Douglas Elliman, noted that agents in the state have received calls from New Yorkers exploring their options, but haven't seen a drastic uptick in interest.

'Prior to the election, there were some buyers that did cite concerns with what they 'anticipated' the outcome of the NYC election to be and made the move months prior or are in contract now,' she told the Daily Mail.

'Limited inventory in many CT markets is a major challenge for any current buyer; bidding wars are occurring as buyers outpace sellers. And for trophy properties, buyers want that specific property.'

Crowley explained that New York politics can affect the Connecticut market, particularly in high-income areas like Greenwich, New Canaan, Darien, and Westport.

She noted that some buyers may relocate to avoid concerns over potential tax increases, but that these suburban areas offer more room and affordable housing, which has been a constant driver of migration.

Mamdani's progressive polices, like freezing rents, raising the minimum wage, implementing government-run grocery stores, and universal child care, have caused some concerns over the cost of living in New York

Wealthy New Yorkers threatened to leave the city and take their businesses elsewhere, including Barry Sternlicht, the Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital Group

Freshly after Mamdani's win, many of New York's elite threatened to leave the city, including Barry Sternlicht, the Chairman and CEO of Starwood Capital Group.

Sternlicht, a billionaire real estate investor, told CNBC the day after Mamdani was elected that Starwood Capital was considering vacating its New York offices.

However, Daniel Ickowicz, the CEO of Elite International Realty, told the Daily Mail that he didn't anticipate a mass exodus of wealthy New Yorkers moving out of the city.

'We must understand that there's a big gap between feeling frustrated after an election and people actually packing a home, changing schools, and relocating a business. Intentions are cheap, but moves are costly,' Ickowicz said.

He added that people moving out of New York are likely buyers who were already on the fence about staying in the city, small- and mid-size owners, remote-eligible professionals or landlords who are tired of the uncertain political landscape.
A woman who says she experienced the horrors of hell after reaching the point of death on the operating table insists God sent her there intentionally.

Camille Gent, a Christian minister in Oregon, told the Daily Mail how - during a medical emergency in 2013 - she felt herself descending into hell, where demons crawled on her flesh, clawed at her skin and tormented her with false visions of her family.

She describes how she was thrown through multiple worsening realms, each darker than the last, before reaching a fourth level where she confronted Satan himself.

It was there that she believed God had sent her on purpose, so she could survive and share the knowledge of what awaited sinners.

But she recounts that once she had faced the devil, the giant hand of God appeared from above, scattering the demons and lifting her back to Earth.

Camille Gent has described her near-death experience during a medical emergency in 2013

Gent said God first showed her hell for several days before taking her to heaven and repairing the damage to her heart (stock Image)

She then describes being shot upwards like an arrow by two huge angels, and witnessed heaven, covered in glittering grass and swaying daffodils, where God and Jesus laughed joyfully on their thrones.

Gent says there she spent three days being transformed into a perfect, healthy human body.

She saw praise flowing like breath, flowers swaying as angels worshipped and words from God pouring over her like waterfalls of love and energy.

In the throne room, she saw God and Jesus laughing joyfully, which she linked to Psalm 2:4: 'He that sitteth in the heavens shall laugh: the Lord shall have them in derision.'

God reviewed the mistakes and trials of her life, conveying to her that it all served to shape her - before He sent her back to Earth with a healed heart, Gent told Daily Mail.

'He reached down, pointed his huge finger in my face, and said, make no mistake, Camille, I know everyone's heart.'

She described how God told her she had been saved from hell because she believed that Jesus had sacrificed himself for her sins.

Her family says she never woke during the course of a 13-day coma after going into septic shock, while Camille recalls her ordeal in hell as lasting for days.

She said she had communicated with God telepathically during the coma: 'I was not even talking to him, but he could hear everything, and it was telepathic, and he said: 'It's because of the blood [of Jesus].'

The instant she returned to her hospital bed and finally became conscious, Gent realized the shallow pursuits of fame and fortune were meaningless, which served to affirm her Christian devotion and purpose.

She credits her survival and the miraculous healing that followed her coma to her faith, with the intervention of God.

Gent (Center) was in the hospital for over three months and had her left leg amputated due to heart failure and widespread infection

Gent was in a coma for 13 days as doctors fought to save her from a severe infection in her pacemaker

Gent now works as a minister in Oregon, sharing her experiences

Gent's medical ordeal began when her pacemaker became infected with potentially deadly black mold growing in her home, triggering sepsis, strokes, organ failure and three comas.

Doctors could not explain how she survived the cascade of complications, which included Stage 4 heart failure, internal bleeding, blood clots in the lungs, and brain aneurysms.

Remarkably, her heart recovered completely, eliminating the need for a pacemaker, transplant, or quadruple bypass surgery.

Her nurse, Patty Woods, reportedly cried, saying: 'Camille, your heart is healthier than before you got sick I don't know, but something happened.'

Gent spent over three months hospitalized, losing her left leg and right toes to sepsis, yet reports that her cirrhosis, temporary paralysis, rheumatoid arthritis and stroke symptoms vanished after the near-death experience.

'The head cardiologist of Oregon Health and Science University, Dr Craig Broberg, still teaches [about] me,' she says.

'He teaches classes about me, because he can't imagine how I lived. I've always told him I went to Heaven, because afterwards I didn't even need that pacemaker.'
Humans kissed Neanderthals  and they liked it, a new study shows.

Researchers at the University of Oxford and Florida Institute of Technology have found evidence that ancient humans were smooching around 50,000 years ago.

Neanderthals (Homo neanderthaliensis) were a close human ancestor that lived in Europe and Western Asia from about 400,000 to 40,000 years ago.

Previously studies have shown that our species, Homo sapeins, had sex with Neanderthals because Neanderthal DNA survives in people today.

However, whether kissing was part of their sexual encounters has been less clear  until now.

'While kissing may seem like an ordinary or universal behaviour, it is only documented in 46 per cent of human cultures,' said study author Catherine Talbot, a professor at Florida Institute of Technology.

'The social norms and context vary widely across societies, raising the question of whether kissing is an evolved behaviour or cultural invention.

'This is the first step in addressing that question.'

Neanderthals, who were already established in Europe and Asia when homo sapiens left Africa, had large noses, a strong doublearched brow ridge and relatively short and stocky bodies. Pictured, a Neanderthal statue at London's Natural History Museum

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Kissing occurs in a variety of animals such as monkeys, polar bears, wolves and even albatrosses, while other animals have equivalent behaviours like nose-touching and head-tapping.

For modern humans, kissing is usually an integral part of the mating experience that appears to be controlled as much by biological urges as sex itself.

But the researchers call kissing 'an evolutionary puzzle' as it appears to carry high risks, such as disease transmission, while offering no obvious reproductive or survival advantages.

Looking at the evolutionary history of kissing is also tricky because it is clearly not a behaviour that can be determined from archaeological remains.

For the study, the researchers collected data from the scientific literature on the modern primate species that have been observed kissing, including chimps, bonobos and orangutans.

The experts defined kissing as non-aggressive, mouth-to-mouth contact that does not involve the transfer of food.

They used a statistical approach (called Bayesian modelling) to simulate different evolution scenarios along the branches of the primate family tree.

The model was run 10 million times to give robust statistical estimates of our different ancestors who also engaged in kissing.

Kissing is found across the animal kingdom in (top panel from clockwise) Rhesus macaques, Galapagos albatross; polar bears, wolves, and prairie dogs. Bottom panel shows non-kissing mouth-to-mouth behaviours (left to right): premastication in orangutans, trophallaxis in ants and kiss-fighting in French grunts

Key events in Neanderthal and human history 300,000 years ago  Homo sapiens emerge in Africa 60,000 to 70,000 years ago  Homo sapiens migrate from Africa to Eurasia 50,500 to 43,500 years ago  Homo sapiens breed with Neanderthals 43,500 years ago  Neanderthals start to die out Advertisement

The results indicate that kissing evolved in an ancestor to the Great Apes somewhere between 21.5 million and 16.9 million years ago.

There are four living classifications of great apes or 'Hominidae'  Orangutan, Gorilla, Pan (consisting of chimpanzee and the bonobo) and Homo, of which only modern humans remain.

Results also suggested Neanderthals engaged in kissing too during their existence, which was relatively much more recently (about 400,000 to 40,000 years ago).

This finding adds to a previous study that discovered humans and Neanderthals shared oral microbes via saliva transfer.

Combined with evidence of interbreeding, it strongly suggests that humans and Neanderthals kissed one another during their sexual interactions.

Ever since, kissing has been retained over the course of evolution and is still present in most of the large apes  but why it has survived for so long is unclear.

Last year, Professor Adriano Lameira, an evolutionary psychologist at Warwick University, published a paper outlining the evolutionary origin of human kissing.

The act of sucking very slightly with pursed lips was once a technique to remove tics and lice from each other's fur, he said, before it started to gain sexual connotations and become an act that preceded mating.

Pictured, reconstruction of the face of the oldest Neanderthal found in the Netherlands, nicknamed Krijn, on display at the National Museum of Antiquities in Leiden

Kissing and lovemaking between Homo sapiens and Neanderthals was thought to be widespread and likely not too dissimilar from today.

'We of course assume that mating was consensual,' Paul Pettitt, professor of archaeology at the University of Durham, previously told the Daily Mail.

'But a sad fact of the ancient world may suggest that this was far from the truth and perhaps one "partner" had little choice in the matter.

'Thus, in the rough and tumble of the prehistoric world perhaps mating just occurred  impromptu, with little thought or intention.

'If it was consensual then we can certainly assume there was foreplay  even sensual kissing and cuddling.'

The new study, 'A comparative approach to the evolution of kissing', has been published in Evolution and Human Behavior.
Vets are urging the public to stop buying flat-faced dog breeds, amid a surge in expensive and time-consuming operations.

Data from the Royal Veterinary College shows a huge 2,075 per cent rise in surgeries for French Bulldogs, a popular flat-faced breed in the UK.

With their squashed little noses and wrinkled faces, English and French Bulldogs, Pugs, and Boston Terriers have become favourites among dog lovers and celebrities.

Paris Hilton, Lady Gaga, and Reese Witherspoon are just a few of the famous faces who have shared their lives with these breeds.

But according to experts, these dogs are enduring a 'lifetime of suffering' as these extreme disfigurements cause pain and health problems.

Dr Dan O'Neill, professor of animal epidemiology at Royal Veterinary College, says these troubling abnormalities are the cause of selective breeding by humans.

'These findings show the huge cost that dogs are paying for our human desire to own dogs that no longer look like natural dogs,' Dr O'Neill said.

'It is time for humanity to put the welfare needs of the dog ahead of our whims to own extreme and non-natural shaped animals, and to return to seeing the natural canine body shape as a thing of beauty.'

In recent years the breed has seen a soaring popularity among celebrities, including Reese Witherspoon (pictured with her dog Pepper)

The RVC vets recorded a huge rise in soft tissue surgical procedures from 659 in 2008 to 1,001 in 2018, largely driven by the requirement of RVC surgeons to offer care for flat-faced dogs

The researchers looked at changing patterns in referral surgery in dogs and cats at the RVC's Queen Mother Hospital for Animals (QMHA) in London, Europe's largest veterinary referral hospital.

The experts analysed theatre log data of soft tissue surgeries performed on different breeds of cats and dogs in 2008 and 2018 at the QMHA.

In all animals, soft tissue surgical procedures  those performed on tissues like muscles, tendons and skin rather than bones  rose from 659 in 2008 to 1,001 in 2018, researchers found.

French Bulldog was the breed with the greatest change between the study years (four soft tissue surgeries in 2008 and 83 in 2018 marking a 2075 per cent increase), rising to become the most common breed presenting for soft tissue surgery in 2018.

Procedures for brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome (BOAS), a serious breathing condition affecting flat-faced breeds, rose from 16 surgeries in 2008 to 131 in 2018  an increase of 813 per cent.

Tellingly, almost half (44.6 per cent) of all BOAS surgeries performed in 2018 were on French Bulldogs  58 in all at QMHA that year.

The average age of referred French Bulldogs in 2018 was just 26 months, suggesting there's a strong demand for young dogs and a shorter lifespan linked to chronic health issues.

'This could reflect demographic effects from both the high demand for puppies of this breed and a very short predicted lifespan for those French Bulldogs that are purchased,' say the team.

Earleir this year Dwayne 'The Rock' Johnson said the death of his beloved French bulldog left him 'numb'

With their squashed little noses and curly tails, pugs have become a favourite among dog lovers and celebrities like Paris Hilton

Health problems for flat-faced dogs Restricted breathing - feeling like they're suffocating

Dental disease due to abnormal skull

Brachycephalic Ocular Syndrome (due to bulging eyes)

Skin infections and irritation due to excessive skin folds

Spinal deformities Source: RSPCA Advertisement

The experts say a growing public preference for abnormally flat faces in dogs is driving a 'canine welfare crisis' in the UK.

Vets are treating increased numbers of animals for conditions caused by extreme body shapes that simply do not exist in nature such as short muzzles and skin folds

These traits often seen as cute or fashionable come with severe lifelong health issues that frequently require complex and costly specialist surgery  resulting in emotional and financial strain for owners.

French and English bulldogs are riddled with painful deformities, because physical features have been exaggerated by centuries of inbreeding.

Their abnormally narrowed nostrils restrict airflow, making it difficult to breathe, especially when going for a walk or trying to chase a ball.

This lack of exercise ability makes it especially prone to obesity, which can worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders.

What's more, their misshapen skulls cause the dogs' eyes to bulge, which can result in infections and corneal ulcers, while their excessively wrinkled skin makes them prone to infection and dermatitis.

Co-author Dan Brockman, professor of small animal surgery at the RVC, said a growing preference for flat-faced breeds 'has to stop'.

French Bulldogs - like the one called Oscar owned by Sadie Frost - are being bought as a fashion accessory by fans in the UK who are persuaded to buy them by photos of the stars

'It is impossible to ignore the dominant, stark and devastating finding that human 'preference' is creating a welfare catastrophe before our eyes and 'on our watch',' he said.

The researchers think of breeds as akin to 'brands'  because both are created and sold by humans and have great monetary value.

Over a couple of hundreds of years, canines have been bred to accentuate 'cute' features in an effort to fuel sales.

'Most dogs these days are produced as a product to sell rather than bred in the sense of aiming to meet some breed standard,' Dr O'Neill told the Daily Mail.

'We might love to own these dogs with extreme conformation but those dogs may not like to live in that body where they have much higher health and welfare issues.'

The findings are detailed further in a paper published in Companion Animal Health and Genetics.
NASA's scientists have been baffled after discovering a mysterious rock on Mars that 'doesn't belong there'.

The Perseverance rover found the strange boulder near the rim of the 28-mile-wide (45 kilometres) Jezero crater, which experts think could have once hosted life.

The rock measures 31 inches (80 centimetres) across and initially stood out due to its 'sculpted' appearance.

Now, experts say that it likely originated from somewhere else in the solar system.

Perseverance used its SuperCam instrument to measure the rock's composition by heating a small section of the surface with a powerful laser.

This revealed that the object, which has been named Phippsaksla, has an exceptionally high iron and nickel content.

This is unusual since Perseverance has not found a single rock with such high metal content anywhere else in Jezero crater.

Dr Candice Bedford, a geologist from Purdue University and Perseverance operator, wrote in a NASA blog: 'This element combination is usually associated with iron-nickel meteorites formed in the core of large asteroids, suggesting that this rock formed elsewhere in the solar system.'

NASA scientists have spotted a mysterious rock on Mars which 'shouldn't be there' due to its unusual metallic composition and 'sculpted' appearance. This image of the rock was taken using the Perseverance rover's Mastcam-Z camera

Since landing on Mars in February 2021, Perseverance has been exploring the geology of Mars' northern Jezero crater.

This is an area of particular interest to scientists, who believe the crater may have once been filled with water, making it one of the best places to search for signs of life.

Recently, Perseverance climbed into a region known as the Vernodden, high on the crater's rim, where it spotted Phippsaksla.

Finding a meteor on Mars' cratered surface isn't unexpected, but the high metal content is much rarer.

Professor Gareth Collins, an expert on meteor impacts from Imperial College London, told the Daily Mail that Mars is hit by meteors 'all the time'.

'At some point in time, the entire Martian surface has been shaped by impacts,' he explained.

'Meteors are expected on Mars on a daily basis; we dont know the number precisely, but there should be lots each day'.

The vast majority of the meteorites falling on Mars are rocky, while only about one in 20 are rich in iron and nickel.

The rock, which has been named Phippsaksla, measures 31 inches (80 centimetres across) and has an unusually high iron and nickel content. Experts say this means it could be a meteorite which formed elsewhere in the solar system

The different types of space rock Asteroid: A chunk of rock left over from collisions in the early solar system. Comet: A ball of ice, rock, methane, and other compounds. Meteoroid: A piece of rock which burns up in the atmosphere. Meteor: What astronomers call a flash of light in the atmosphere when debris burns up Meteorite: Rock that makes it through the atmosphere to the planet's surface. Advertisement

These metallic meteorites are typically forged in the hearts of large asteroids, as the heavy minerals sank to the centre of heated rocks during the solar system's formation.

Phippsaksla's composition suggests that it might have had a similar origin elsewhere in the solar system, rather than forming on Mars.

Dr Gareth Dorrian, of the University of Birmingham, told the Daily Mail: 'It is quite likely this one on Mars came from the asteroid belt.

'These particular meteorites are quite resistant to chemical weathering and are more likely to survive the fiery fall through a planetary atmosphere.'

However, despite being rarer than rocky meteorites, the sheer volume of meteorites hitting Mars means that all other Mars rovers have found iron-nickel rocks.

The Curiosity rover has found many iron-nickel meteorites in the Gale crater, including a massive 39-inch (one metre) metallic meteorite dubbed 'Lebanon'.

Likewise, both the Curiosity and Spirit rovers found similar iron-nickel meteorites during their own missions.

Dr Bedford writes: 'As such, it has been somewhat unexpected that Perseverance had not seen iron-nickel meteorites within Jezero crater, particularly given its similar age to Gale crater and number of smaller impact craters suggesting that meteorites did fall on the crater floor, delta, and crater rim throughout time.'

The Mars rover Perseverance (pictured) spotted the strange rock while exploring a region known as Vernodden, high on the rim of the Jezero Crater. This is a particular area of interest, since scientists think the crater may once have been filled with water

This is not the first time rovers have found iron and nickel meteorites. In 2014, the Curiosity rover found a massive 39-inch (one metre) metallic meteorite dubbed 'Lebanon' (pictured)

This comes after Perseverance spotted an unusual 'helmet' rock in the Jezero crater, which may have been formed by volcanic activity

Due to Phippsaksla's exotic nature, NASA's scientists say they will need more time to analyse it to confirm whether it is a meteorite.

If it is proven that the rock fell from space, then Perseverance can finally be ranked among the rovers to have investigated these rare and fascinating Martian visitors.

However, this is not the first unusual discovery that Perseverance has made on its journey through the Jezero crater.

In August, Perseverance snapped a picture of a bizarre 'helmet' on the Martian surface.

A closer look reveals it was covered from top to bottom with small bobbles, which are known by geologists as 'spherules'.

On Earth, spherules are formed by the rapid cooling of molten rock droplets during a volcanic eruption, or by the condensation of rock vaporised by a meteorite impact.

This suggests it might have been formed some time in the distant past when Mars' surface was dotted with active volcanoes.
Do you have impeccable pronunciation, or do you always end up muddling your words?

The answer may lie in how many of these words you can pronounce correctly.

Experts from Unscramblerer.com have revealed the UK's most mispronounced words  with Niamh topping the list.

'Our research about the most searched for mispronunciations gives an interesting insight into United Kingdom's culture,' a spokesperson for the site explained.

'Exposure to new words through media, music, pop culture and social platforms drives curiosity.

'People often look up pronunciations if there is a gap between how a word or name is spelled and how it sounds.'

So, have you been saying these words correctly?

Tap or hover over the terms in our interactive chart below to find out the true pronunciation.

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The analysis revealed that two Irish names top the list  'Niamh' (searched for 124,800 times in the UK this year), and Saoirse (109,200 searches). Pictured: actress Saoirse Ronan

To understand the most mispronounced words, Unscramblerer.com turned to Google Trends and Ahrefs.

'We used Google Trends to discover the most mispronounced words and Ahrefs to find the number of searches,' it explained.

'United Kingdom's most mispronounced words can be discovered in Google Trends by searching for "How do you pronounce", "pronunciations of" and "How to pronounce".

'Ahrefs shows many variations of pronunciation searches like "croissant pronunciation" or "how do you pronounce jalapeno".

'We added up 100 search variations of top mispronouncing searches.'

The analysis revealed that two Irish names top the list  'Niamh' (searched for 124,800 times in the UK this year), and Saoirse (109,200 searches).

Meaning 'bright' or 'radiant,' Niamh is pronounced 'NEEV', while Saoirse  meaning 'freedom'  is pronounced 'SERsha'.

Next on the list is 'gyro'  a popular Greek dish, typically made with lamb, beef, or chicken.

It's a product found in most kitchen cupboards, but do you know how to properly pronounce 'Worcestershire sauce'?

Acai (assaee) is a small, dark purple berry from a palm tree native to South America, widely known as a superfood

While many Brits pronounce this as 'GEEroh' or 'JEEroh', the correct pronunciation is actually 'YEEroh'.

Gyro isn't the only food item to have Brits confused.

Other foods we've been pronouncing wrong include 'croissant' (kwahson), 'Worcestershire sauce' (wusstuhshuh sauce), and 'acai' (assaee).

If you struggle with any of these words, don't worry  Unscramblerer.com explains that the English language is 'particularly irregular'.

'English spelling only matches pronunciation about 75% of the time (University of Oxford research),' it explained.

'A Cambridge University linguistics survey found that over 60% of English speakers admit they regularly mispronounce at least one common word.

'Correct pronunciation is closely tied to perceived intelligence and competence.

'The desire for correct pronunciation is a mix of avoiding social embarrassment and simple curiosity.

'No wonder people are searching for how to pronounce words.'
What is being hailed as a 'cancer treatment breakthrough' comes not from a brand-new experimental drug, but from a 40-year-old medicine used to treat worms.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have patented a new form of mebendazole, called polymorph C, which may work much better against cancer than the versions currently available.

Mebendazole is already a well-known drug that safely treats parasitic worm infections in humans and animals.

The new crystal form, polymorph C, seems to get into tumors more effectively, including brain tumors, which are usually very hard to treat because most drugs cannot pass through the protective blood-brain barrier.

According to the patent, an oral formulation with at least 90 percent polymorph C can reach cancer cells at higher concentrations than standard mebendazole, potentially making it more powerful.

The inventors said this new form could be used to treat many different types of cancer, from brain tumors like gliomas and medulloblastomas to breast, colon, lung, pancreatic and thyroid cancers, and possibly even help prevent cancer in people at high risk.

In experiments with mice, polymorph C reached effective levels inside tumors and showed stronger tumor-suppressing effects than other forms of mebendazole.

The researchers also suggested combining it with another drug, elacridar, which can block cancer cells from pumping out the drug, making it work even better.

The patent details an oral treatment, which was a reengineered version of a 40-year-old medicine used to treat worms

The patent, awarded on September 7, 2021, states: 'As an oral drug, mebendazole polymorph C is a superior form, and it reaches the brain and brain tumors in effective concentrations. Efficacy is further improved by combining mebendazole with a P-glycoprotein inhibitor.

'Mebendazole may also be used for therapy of other cancers, as well as a chemopreventative agent.'

Another proposed approach is pairing mebendazole C with anti-inflammatory drugs such as celecoxib or sulindac.

Chronic inflammation is linked to cancer, so this combination could help reduce the risk of tumors forming in particularly vulnerable people.

Because mebendazole has been safely used for decades, this new formulation could move into clinical trials faster than most brand-new cancer drugs, according to the researchers.

The patent, filed by Gregory Riggins, Renyuan Bai, Verena Staedtke, Avadhut Joshi and Tara Williamson, focuses on a simple but important idea that mebendazole comes in three slightly different structures, called polymorphs, and one of them, polymorph C, behaves very differently in the body.

It can travel to the brain more effectively and reach tumors at concentrations that may actually be effective at killing cancer cells.

This is unusual because most chemotherapy drugs cannot cross into the brain at all.

The inventors said this new form could be used to treat many different types of cancer, from brain tumors like gliomas and medulloblastomas to breast, colon, lung (PICTURED), pancreatic and thyroid cancers, and possibly even help prevent cancer in people at high risk

When mice were given oral doses of polymorph C, the researchers found that polymorph C reached high enough levels in both the blood and the tumors to have anti-cancer effects.

The team described the results as 'increased tumor suppression' with 'acceptable toxicity,' meaning the drug killed cancer cells without causing harmful side effects in the animals.

The patent also addressed a common problem in cancer treatment: drug resistance.

Some cancer cells have molecular 'pumps' that push drugs out before they can work.

Using mebendazole C together with a P-glycoprotein inhibitor helps the drug stay inside the cancer cells longer, increasing its effectiveness.

In tests with mice that had aggressive brain tumors, the combination of polymorph C and elacridar extended survival compared to polymorph C alone.

Even after a single oral dose, the drug stayed in the brain for several hours at levels higher than what is needed to kill cancer cells in lab tests.

However, prolonged treatment with both mebendazole and elacridar caused some side effects, including significant weight loss and even death in some mice.

Researchers from Johns Hopkins University have patented a new form of mebendazole, called polymorph C, which may work much better against cancer than the versions currently available

This suggested that while the combination was very effective, careful attention to dosing and treatment length will be essential in future studies, the researchers noted.

The range of cancers covered in the patent is broad, including brain tumors, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, ovarian cancer, pancreatic cancer, prostate cancer, thyroid cancer, melanoma, and sarcomas.

The challenge with traditional mebendazole has been inconsistent absorption in the body, but the new polymorph C formulation is designed to overcome that problem.

A recent preclinical study confirmed that mebendazole polymorph C not only reaches high levels in the brain but also concentrates effectively within brain tumors, significantly improving survival in mice with gliomas and medulloblastomas.

The researchers also tested combining polymorph C with elacridar, a drug that helps chemotherapy stay inside tumor cells, and found that this pairing further extended survival, although higher doses caused some toxicity.

These findings provided concrete, laboratory-based evidence supporting the patents claims that polymorph C can penetrate tumors more efficiently than other forms, highlighting its promise as a potent brain cancer therapy.

One reason this discovery is exciting is mebendazole's long history of safety.

Approved in the early 1970s, it is well-understood by doctors and even available over the counter in some countries.

This means researchers can focus on testing effectiveness against cancer, rather than starting with unknown safety risks.

However, the team noted that just because the drug worked in mice does not mean it will automatically work in humans.

Doctors will need to figure out the right dose, how the human body processes it and whether it interacts safely with other medications.

The patent describes specific formulations, including granulated, coated, or micronized versions, to help the drug be absorbed better, all of which require further development.

If clinical trials can confirm the promise of polymorph C, mebendazole could become a rare example of a cancer therapy that is effective, affordable, and based on a drug doctors already trust.

For patients facing some of the deadliest cancers, this old medicine may offer a surprising new way forward.
NASA's big reveal of the mysterious interstellar object has been slammed as a joke, with many claiming the space agency is covering up what they really know.

The newest images of the visitor, known as 3I/ATLAS, were released by the space agency on Wednesday.

However, the pictures, taken on a rather sophisticated camera on Mars, were largely blurry and showed only a distant dot.

Moreover, NASA refuted any claims that the object, which had made unexpected maneuvers that dumbfounded experts, is anything other than a large space rock.

The agency's associate administrator Amit Kshatriya declared at a press conference on YouTube: '3I/ATLAS is a comet.'

Social media went into a frenzy, with many alleging the space agency was hiding what they actually knew and was withholding clearer images.

'What a waste of time! NASA is lying so bad. They are all so scripted. The gaslighting is off the charts,' one person posted on X.

'You have lost all credibility with this blurry hogwash photo. Anyone over there who cares about Earth should dump the entire unedited image archive to Wikileaks,' another social media user wrote.

NASA's sophisticated HiRISE camera was supposed to provide a detailed image of the interstellar object near Mars, but the photo shown on Wednesday was blurry and vague

Other images revealed by NASA showed 3I/ATLAS from great distances which made the object look like a dot among the stars

NASA's HiRISE camera on board the Mars Reconnaissance Orbiter was expected to provide one of the best images of 3I/ATLAS to date, since it was able to view the object from just 19 million miles away.

However, the image shown on Wednesday was a fuzzy, black-and-white picture that did not have any definition.

In fact, the clearest and most detailed image presented by NASA did not actually show the interstellar object. Instead, it showed a color image of the chemical elements being released into space by 3I/ATLAS.

'It was a foggy London day when the NASA Mars orbiter took this photo haha,' one person joked on social media.

The space agency also pushed back on claims that 3I/ATLAS was displaying any behaviors that were unnatural for a typical comet.

Previously, Harvard professor Avi Loeb had already discovered at least 11 anomalies that scientists have yet to fully explain, including a cometary tail pointing in the wrong direction, the object turning blue near the sun, and course changes that defy gravity.

However, the NASA team dismissed any irregularities being recorded as a byproduct of the object coming from a distant solar system likely composed of a completely different chemical makeup than our own.

Nicky Fox, who works for NASA's science mission directorate, added: 'We certainly haven't seen any technosignatures [technological traces of intelligent life] or anything from it that would lead us to believe it was anything other than a comet.'

The only detailed image revealed by NASA did not include 3I/ATLAS, and only showed a trail of chemicals the object was supposedly emitting

NASA maintained that 3I/ATLAS was a comet with no signs of extraterrestrial life

'It's gonna look different because it didn't come from our solar system,' Fox added.

The quick dismissal of the alternative possibilities surrounding 3I/ATLAS only fueled the speculation online that NASA was trying to bury the subject of alien life.

'This is s***. Tell the truth once and for all to all mankind!!' one frustrated viewer posted.

'Seems like they are trying really hard to convince us that it's just a rock,' another person said.

When Fox was directly asked whether NASA scientists had investigated the possibility that 3I/ATLAS could be an alien craft, the associate administrator avoided giving a clear answer to the question.

'We love all of the different science and all of the different hypotheses into what these things can be,' Fox replied.

'NASA= NEVER A STRAIGHT ANSWER,' an X user posted during the press event.

'I should be mad about the NASA event being an absolute flop but I actually just can't stop laughing,' another viewer wrote.

Images of 3I/ATLAS taken by the Nordic Optical Telescope in Spain on November 11 showed the alleged comet has not broken apart as expected

Color-enhanced images shared by multiple social media users revealed 3I/ATLAS developed a strange green glow as it neared Mars and the sun last month

Since its discovery in July, the majority of scientists and astronomers have agreed with NASA's assessment, calling 3I/ATLAS a normal comet with a slightly different chemical arrangement than space rock which formed in this solar system.

Loeb, a physicist and head of the Galileo Project, a scientific research group looking for signs of extraterrestrial life, has been the most prominent voice disputing the comet theory.

He contended that those in the scientific community who have dismissed the more extraordinary possibilities are more concerned with being right and avoiding criticism than alerting the public to a potentially world-changing event.

'Here we are talking about a potential for something that could affect humanity in the future in a dramatic way, and so you shouldn't apply the same approach of being as conservative as possible,' Loeb told the Daily Mail in October.

'I don't want to be their therapist, but they're trying to obviously protect their reputation, not take risks, and also pretend that they know the answer in advance.'
Many holidaymakers enjoy sipping a cocktail on the beach or trying a new drink at a bar during their travels.

But after a spate of methanol poisonings in popular destinations around the world, the Foreign Office has added travel warnings to 11 more countries.

Methanol is an industrial alcohol that can be found in antifreeze and paint thinners but in some countries, it is illegally mixed with spirit-based drinks and cocktails to cut costs.

Even small amounts of methanol can cause blindness or death within 12 to 48 hours of consuming it.

The toxic substance is tasteless and odourless, making it impossible to detect.

Mainstream holiday hotspots including Japan, Mexico, Kenya and Peru already had warnings put out after a string of methanol-related incidents.

Tourists visiting Thailand, Laos and Vietnam were also warned.

Now, travel guidance by the Foreign Office has been updated for 11 more countries including Bangladesh, India, Jordan, Malawi, Iran, Malaysia, Libya, Morocco, Nepal, Rwanda and Papua New Guinea, the BBC reports.

Many holidaymakers enjoy sipping a cocktail on the beach or trying a new drink at a bar during their travels (stock)

The advice for India, for example, reads: 'There has been an increase in cases of serious illness caused by alcoholic drinks containing methanol in popular travel destinations around the world.

'Even small amounts of methanol can kill. It is not possible to identify methanol in alcoholic drinks by taste or smell.

'See Travel Aware Drink Spiking and Methanol Poisoning for information about how to reduce the risks.

'Seek urgent medical attention if you or someone you are travelling with show the signs of methanol poisoning after drinking.'

Minister responsible for Consular and Crisis, Hamish Falconer said: 'Methanol poisoning can kill - it can be difficult to detect when drinking and early symptoms mirror ordinary alcohol poisoning. By the time travellers realise the danger, it can be too late.

'Thats why were working hard to raise awareness of the warning signs and urging anyone who suspects methanol poisoning to seek immediate medical attention. I encourage all travellers to check our travel advice and Travel Aware pages before they go on holiday.

'No family should endure what the campaigners families have suffered. Their determination to prevent others facing the same tragedy has been instrumental in driving forward these vital updates to our travel advice.'

But after a spate of methanol poisonings in popular destinations around the world, the Foreign Office has added travel warnings to 11 more countries (pictured: Marrakesh in Morocco)

It comes as a 28-year-old British lawyer died after drinking a shot at a hostel in Laos last year.

Simone White was one of at least six tourists who died from suspected methanol poisoning in the backpacker town of Vang Vieng, most likely from a bar that served bootleg spirits.

Experts say that poor countries along the Mekong River in particular are exploited by alcohol suppliers as there are low levels of law enforcement and little regulation in the hospitality industry.

This allows for the production of dangerous, counterfeit alcohol mixed with cheaper and toxic substances like methanol instead of ethanol, leading to poisoning and deaths.
Ryanair has lost two of its landing slots at a European airport as a result of repeated late arrivals, it has been announced.

In a rare move, the country's airport authority has punished the airline's regularly delayed landings.

The low-cost carrier has seen two of its landing slots taken away at Eindhoven Airport, Airport Coordination Netherlands (ACNL), the body that assigns airport slots said on Tuesday.

ACNL found Ryanair had been consistently late on Monday and Thursday evenings.

The flights were most frequently delayed from Sofia, Bulgaria, on Monday evenings and from Pisa, Italy on Thursday nights.

It said that the flights were on average more than an hour late.

As such, ACNL removed the airline from the two slots for next summer's schedule, Reuters reported.

Ryanair said in a statement: 'Ryanair is the most punctual airline in Europe.

Ryanair has lost two of its landing slots at a European airport as a result of repeated late arrivals, it has been announced

'We have appealed this unprecedented, irrational and disproportionate decision by ACNL to the European Commission and the Dutch courts, where we expect it will be overturned.

'ACNL are penalising airlines for ATC delays pushing flights just 15-minutes over their scheduled arrival time, which is completely out of whack with the vast majority of European airports where the threshold is much higher and more reasonable.

'Ryanair has long campaigned for ATC reform, but EU Commission President, Ursula von "Derlayed-Again", has failed to take action.'

It is unclear what this will mean for passengers travelling to the Dutch hub as a result.

The announcement was first reported by Dutch newspaper Eindhovens Dagblad.

The Daily Mail has contacted ACNL for further comment.

It comes shortly after Ryanair's much-anticipated new rule came into force.

From November 12 onwards, passengers on Ryanair flights must check in online before getting to the airport and using digital boarding passes  or face a 55 fee.

In a rare move, the country's airport authority has punished the airline's regularly delayed landings

The new rule was expected to cause some trouble for people who don't own mobile phones.

A huge 2.06 million Brits aged over 55 do not have one of the handy devices, according to MoneySuperMarket.

Meanwhile, Ryanair revealed plans to halt flights from several European airports next year, citing tax changes in France as the reason.

The low-cost airline continues to speak out against tax hikes throughout the country, following the removal of several regional airports - including Strasbourg, Bergerac, and Vatry - from its flight schedule earlier this year.
One holidaymaker has revealed why he will never return to Egypt after spending three weeks in the country.

He claimed he experienced a range of 'non-stop scams' as well as 'aggressive staring' and 'restaurants denying reservations'.

The traveller felt so passionately that he typed out his thoughts on Reddit during his flight home.

He explained how his three-week holiday to the popular destination 'drained my soul like a Dyson vacuum on turbo mode'.

Things began to go wrong the moment the holidaymaker landed in the country.

He was hit with an unexpected visa fee and as well as another charge to speed through the process.

'I paid $15 for 'fast immigration,' which apparently translates to stand in the same line as everyone else while random people walk straight through anyway,' he penned.

'Then some guy appears out of nowhere demanding another $15 for a 'registration fee,' which I'm convinced was created on the spot.'

One holidaymaker has revealed why he will never return to Egypt after spending three weeks in the country

Tourists planning on staying in Egypt for more than 15 days do need a visa, according to the UK Foreign Office.

It also explains how in some cases, when holidaymakers arrive in the country, 'approved airports have kiosks before you reach the immigration counters where you can buy a visa for 25 US dollars (cash only  Egyptian officials prefer dollars, but you may be able to pay in British pounds or euros). Visas on arrival are valid for up to 30 days.'

The tourist also found it uncomfortable when locals stared at him and explained: 'Im a guy, I dont scare easily, but the way people stare here is unbelievable.

'Men, women, whole families just staring at you nonstop like theyre trying to download your data with their eyes.'

In another instance, he was charged 1525 EGP for a ticket but on the card reader it apparently read 1525 USD.

He admitted he had never witnessed such a 'bold' attempt of 'scam'.

Something went wrong with the holidaymaker's restaurant reservation, too, and he ended up not being able to eat at the venue after waiting an hour.

He claimed he experienced a range of 'non-stop scams' as well as 'aggressive staring' and 'restaurants denying reservations' (stock)

Meanwhile, when he took a taxi, they agreed on a set price but the driver then asked for 3,000 EGP extra for having to wait.

By the end of his trip he felt 'completely cooked' and didn't want to stay in the country 'another minute'.

He warned other holidaymakers to avoid booking a trip to Egypt after his own 'chaotic' experience.
With the UK now averaging just 13 days of snow a year, its no surprise Brits are searching elsewhere for a white Christmas.

Plenty of us will be hunting for guaranteed snow to make our festivities all the more special.

But this might mean having to venture further afield.

The top 10 winter destinations in Europe where snow is guaranteed have been revealed, according to a study.

One is a little-known Finnish destination that promises huge amounts of snowfall and crisp, white scenery.

Hallstatt, Austria

Top of the list is Hallstatt, Austria. This picturesque village in Austrias Salzkammergut region is the definition of a winter wonderland

Top of the list is Hallstatt, Austria.

This picturesque village in Austrias Salzkammergut region is the definition of a winter wonderland.

Nestled between a lake and snow dusted mountains, Hallstatt shines with fairytale charm during the colder months.

With an impressive 890 mm of snowfall and minimal light pollution, its the perfect spot for snow lovers and stargazers.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Europes northernmost capital offers not only guaranteed snow (averaging 254.6 mm), but also one of the best chances to witness the Northern Lights up close

In second place is Reykjavik, Iceland.

Europes northernmost capital offers not only guaranteed snow (averaging 254.6 mm), but also one of the best chances to witness the Northern Lights up close.

Rovaniemi, Finland

Perched on the Arctic Circle, and with 193 mm of average snowfall, its easy to see why this snow-dusted haven is known as the official home of Santa Claus

Coming in third place is Rovaniemi, Finland.

Perched on the Arctic Circle, and with 193 mm of average snowfall, its easy to see why this snow-dusted haven is known as the official home of Santa Claus.

It's ideal for an authentic winter escape as a result.

Tallinn, Estonia

In Tallinn, Estonia, Christmas feels authentic, unexpected and genuinely affordable

Tallinn, Estonia comes in fourth.

With 134.6 mm of snowfall, Tallinn ranks among Northern Europes most reliable winter destinations.

In Tallinn, Estonia, Christmas feels authentic, unexpected and genuinely affordable.

Its historic Christmas tree, first put up in 1441, is widely recognised as Europes earliest public Christmas tree.

Vilnius, Lithuania

Fifth place goes to Vilnius, Lithuania, with an average of 104 mm of snowfall

Fifth place goes to Vilnius, Lithuania, with an average of 104 mm of snowfall.

Vilnius was crowned as the best value in the Post Office's Christmas Market Barometer.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania, was also titled Europe's Christmas Capital 2025 2025 by the Christmas Cities Network, supported by the European Parliament.

The new research from Icelandair analysed 60 European destinations to reveal where snow is still guaranteed, ranking them by snowfall, light pollution and clear skies.

Each city was evaluated based on three equally weighted factors: snowfall, stargazing potential and Christmas market activity.
A lesser-known British coastline has been dubbed the 'desert' of the UK thanks to its wild, windswept landscape and post-apocalyptic feel.

The UK boasts some of the world's most picturesque and diverse beaches - but one seaside town in the south-east of England stands out for its unique qualities.

Dungeness, a headland on the coast of Kent, is home to a sprawling, stark shingle beach renowned for its desolate, end-of-the-world beauty.

Described by visitors as 'surreal' and 'dystopian,' the area's otherworldly atmosphere is marked by shipwrecks and rusting machinery scattered along the pebbles and stones.

On sunny days, the vast shingle plain, with its wooden huts and patchy vegetation, almost resembles a film set for an American spaghetti western.

Two iconic lighthouses dominate the horizon - one, a historic, decommissioned landmark open to visitors, and the other a modern, active navigation aid.

Dungeness also houses two nuclear stations, a prominent feature of the landscape that adds to its near-future aesthetic.

Quirky, ramshackle fishing cottages are dotted across the beach, along with the standout former home of filmmaker Derek Jarman - a tiny, black wood-panelled cottage featuring yellow window frames and poetry inscribed inside.

Dungeness, a headland on the coast of Kent, is home to a sprawling, stark shingle beach renowned for its desolate, end-of-the-world beauty

Described by visitors as 'surreal' and 'dystopian,' the area's otherworldly atmosphere is marked by shipwrecks and rusting machinery scattered along the pebbles and stones

On sunny days, the vast shingle plain, with its wooden huts and patchy vegetation, almost resembles a film set for an American spaghetti western

The area has also been designated as a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC), home insects, migratory birds and 600 species of plants - a third of all plants found in the UK.

To help protect the landscape and its wildlife, the National Nature Reserve, defined by lakes, marshes, and wet grassland, stretches across Dungeness to encompass the extensive RSPB reserve.

In addition to its 'desert of the UK' status, Dungeness is located at the end of the line for the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR), a tiny 15 inch (381 mm) gauge railway that operates as one of the world's smallest public passenger trains.

The popular tourist attraction railway offers a unique experience for passengers on its 13.5 mile journey between Hythe and Dungeness, passing through the distinctive Dungeness peninsula, old railway carriages and industrial sites.

Meanwhile, a 'cyberpunk' megacity in China is the world's largest by population - yet it remains relatively unknown to many outside of Asia.

Chongqing, situated in the south-west of the country, is home to a staggering 32 million residents - making it the only Chinese city with a population of over 30 million.

The sprawling municipality, which covers a whopping 31,815 square miles, is distinguished by its ethereal mountainous terrain and its complex, multi-tiered-infrastructure.

Chongqing is built on elevated, hilly terrain, resulting in a unique vertical layering of buildings, where entrances can be found on different floors of properties, while roadways and pedestrian walkways overlap one another across various heights.

Two iconic lighthouses dominate the horizon - one, a historic, decommissioned landmark open to visitors, and the other a modern, active navigation aid

Quirky, ramshackle fishing cottages are dotted across the beach

Along with the standout former home of filmmaker Derek Jarman - a tiny, black wood-panelled cottage featuring yellow window frames and poetry inscribed inside

Pictured: Wooden board walk across the beach to the sea in Dungeness, Kent

Pictured: Old shipping containers and debris at Dungeness, Kent

In addition to its 'desert of the UK' status, Dungeness is located at the end of the line for the Romney, Hythe and Dymchurch Railway (RH&DR), a tiny 15 inch (381 mm) gauge railway that operates as one of the world's smallest public passenger trains

The city's skyline, meanwhile, with its neon lights and futuristic architecture, is often compared to cyberpunk and sci-fi concepts - with YouTuber Ben Morris calling it the 'closest I've ever been to a real-life video game' in a viral clip.

Despite its sheer size and jaw-dropping landscape, Chongqing is often overlooked by tourists, who might be more familiar with other major Chinese cities like Beijing or Shanghai.

Now, the spotlight is firmly on the 'Mountain City' thanks to its growing popularity amidst seasoned travellers, curious content creators and distinguished tourism boards.

The Lonely Planet travel guide describes the city as 'the most important city in western China and the economic engine of the upper Yangzi [Yangtze],' while highlighting the municipality's 'fantastic food and 'charismatic geography.'
A woman lived out her own version of The Holiday after swapping homes with a complete stranger whom she met on TikTok.

Marie Draxler, from London, decided to swap flats after spotting a video by NYC native Lohanny Santos, who was looking for someone abroad to exchange homes for a trip.

Intrigued by the idea, Marie reached out  and the pair instantly hit it off.

After a few friendly chats and a Zoom call, the pair decided to go for it, even booking their flights at the same time.

After posting about her real-life The Holiday experience, Marie's TikTok quickly blew up  racking up millions of views.

'I'm so happy,' she says in one video.

'I am just in this little bliss bubble, and I'm just so grateful for this whole swap and us doing this and me being here and just living this crazy adventure.'

Marie soaked up the sights of New York, exploring the city's parks, testing out photo booths and tucking into classic Big Apple eats.

A woman lived out her own version of The Holiday after swapping homes with a complete stranger whom she met on TikTok

Marie Draxler, from London, decided to swap flats after spotting a video by NYC native Lohanny Santos, who was looking for someone abroad to exchange homes for a trip

Marie soaked up the sights of New York, exploring the city's parks, testing out photo booths and tucking into classic Big Apple eats

Meanwhile, Lohanny, from Brooklyn, got to experience London life from a cosy Notting Hill flat.

The pair, who both live in one-bed flats, stayed in touch throughout their travels  giving each other recommendations and keeping tabs on the other's adventures.

Marie said the swap felt straight out of The Holiday  minus the unexpected romance  and proved that all it takes is a bit of trust and TikTok magic to turn a movie moment into reality.

'I just wandered all over Manhattan, truly enjoying the best the city had to offer,' Marie told What's The Jam.

'We both created a list of recommendations  from cafes to cute boutiques  and we both checked out those recommendations and truly lived like the other.

'New York always has and always will hold a special place in my heart.

'This city has always inspired and motivated me on a whole new level.

'I'm so grateful I got to experience this trip and truly lived like a local.'

Meanwhile, Lohanny, from Brooklyn, got to experience London life from a cosy Notting Hill flat

The pair, who both live in one-bed flats, stayed in touch throughout their travels  giving each other recommendations and keeping tabs on the other's adventures

Marie said the swap felt straight out of The Holiday  minus the unexpected romance  and proved that all it takes is a bit of trust and TikTok magic to turn a movie moment into reality

Viewers have flooded the comment section. One person said: 'It's literally The Holiday in real life.'

Others couldn't believe how the pair found each other,.

One person said: 'OMG I just saw the video of the NYC girl asking to switch places before this one and then I saw your comment  no way!'

Another person said: 'It's giving The Holiday vibes  I hope she gets her a Jude Law. I want one.'

Dozens more were inspired to try it for themselves. One person said: 'If anyone wants to switch and stay in San Diego, let me know!'

Someone else added:'If someone doesn't make this a business idea I will!'
The Simpsons has revealed its latest longtime character to kick the bucket.

On the November 16 episode, titled Sashes To Sashes, the long-running series said goodbye to a character who made their debut way back in 1991 during the show's second season.

First Church Organist Alice Glick keeled over onto the organ, interrupting Reverend Lovejoy and shocking the congregation midway through a church service attended by the eponymous Simpson family.

Her death marked the end of the character's 34 year, 35 season run.

The move comes as the show has been blasted by fans, alternately for killing off beloved but minor characters and for continuing to go on with no end in sight as its lead characters' voices have noticeably aged.

The Simpsons' executive producer Tim Long confirmed to People that Alice wouldn't be featured on the series again in the wake of her death scene in episode seven of season 37.

The Simpsons revealed its latest longtime character to kick the bucket on its most recent episode; The Simpsons family are pictured on Season 37, episode 7, titled Sashes to Sashes

On the November 16 episode, titled Sashes To Sashes, the long-running series said goodbye to a character who made their debut way back in 1991, during the show's second season; still from Season 35, episode nine

'In a sense, Alice the organist will live forever, through the beautiful music she made,' he said. 'But in another, more important sense, yep she's dead as a doornail.'

Notably, the character appeared to have been killed years earlier before she was revealed to still be alive in the Simpsons universe.

In a season 23 episode, titled Replaceable You, Alice was attacked by a robotic pet, leaving viewers to assume that she had been killed off.

Confusingly, Alice returned in subsequent episodes  both in her usual form and as a ghost.

However, because of her subsequent living appearances, Simpson fan forums have labeled the episode as non-canonical.

Alice originally had major star power behind her, as she was voiced by the legendary actress Cloris Leachman  who died in 2021 at 94  in her debut appearance.

However, Simpsons mainstay Tress MacNeille, 74, went on to voice the role for all of Alice's subsequent appearances over the decades.

In the character's debut, season two's Three Men And A Comic Book, Bart Simpson performed a variety of chores for Alice in exchange for payments to help him buy a $100 comic book.

During a church service attended by the eponymous Simpson family, First Church Organist Alice Glick keeled over onto the organ, interrupting Reverend Lovejoy and shocking the congregation

The character debuted in the show's second season, in 1991. Cloris Leachman voiced Mrs. Glick in the initial appearance. She died at 94 in 2021; pictured in 2019 in Hollywood

But Simpsons mainstay Tress MacNeille took over the role during all subsequent appearances over the past 35 seasons; pictured in 2007 in LA

On X (formerly Twitter) fans had mixed reactions to Mrs. Glick's death. Some paid tribute to the late character, but others called for The Simpsons to finally come to an end after multiple decades that most fans believe have lived in the shadow of the series' early seasons

Several minor characters have been killed off in recent years, and Marge was killed in June in a flash-forward years in the future. In 2023, Sideshow Bob was murdered by Lisa, but in a non-canonical Treehouse Of Horror Halloween episode (pictured)

However, Mrs. Glick only pays 50 cents per chore, so Bart has to pool his money with Milhouse and Martin, and the three end up going mad with greed as they fight over the comic.

On X (formerly Twitter) fans had mixed reactions to Mrs. Glick's death.

While some paid tribute to the late character, others took the opportunity to call for The Simpsons to finally come to an end after multiple decades that most fans believe have lived in the shadow of the series' early seasons.

'RIP Alice Glick,' one poster wrote, while another joked, 'Alice Glick is dead...Again.'

'Oh my gosh. Someone update The Simpsons wikis about Alice Glick,' another poster added.

One user poked fun at others for caring about the character's death by reminding that that it was just 'a cartoon'.

'This is too funny to me, haha. The whole thing is a cartoon. These characters can and will come back anytime the director feels like it,' they wrote.

'Who watches the Simpsons anymore?' another person complained. 'Half the best voice actors are dead or have left the show, which is a woefully unfunny shell of its former self.'

One fan advised others that 'None of this matters when you stop at season 13.'

The Simpson previously struck up controversy in June when it killed off one of the series leads, Marge Simpson, but only in a flash-forward taking place years in the future.

Prior to that, a string of minor characters had been killed off, including Larry the Barfly.

In 2023, Bart's longtime antagonist Sideshow Bob (voiced by Frasier star Kelsey Grammer) was killed off, but it was in another flash-forward in that year's Treehouse Of Horror Halloween episode, which isn't consider canonical.
Richard Madeley has revealed the reason behind his absence from Good Morning Britain - while fans requested his replacement be made permanent.

The presenter, 69, who has been part of the Good Morning Britain team since 2017, did not appear in Monday or Tuesday's episodes this week.

Speaking to co-host Susanna Reid in today's instalment, Richard addressed why he had been away.

Susanna, 54, had said to him: 'By the way, I haven't said welcome back - and how are you feeling?'

Richard replied: 'I'm clear of it. I had Covid, as you know. The active stage has gone now and I'm okay again but it does leave you washed out.'

He added: 'I feel like I'm operating at 80% this morning so I hope it doesn't show.'

Richard Madeley returned to Good Morning Britain after a two day absence

Co-presenter Susanna Reid welcomed Richard back to the programme

Wednesday's episode saw Richard and Susanna joined by guests including Wynne Evans, who took part in last year's Strictly Come Dancing.

On Monday, viewers watched on as Richard was unexpectedly replaced by a star who 'has never worked with Susanna before'.

Paul Brand, the UK editor of ITV News, stepped in to present the programme alongside Susanna.

He has previously appeared on GMB to discuss politics and has also presented on ITV News At Ten.

Susanna explained at the time: 'Good morning Britain it's just gone 6 o'clock, welcome to the programme.

'Richard Madeley, due to be on air this morning, little bit poorly, so get well soon Richard watching from home, as Paul Brand takes your hot seat.'

Paul responded: 'Good morning, yes get well soon Richard and come and help me out because I don't know what I'm doing, I've never sat next to you [Susanna] before either, so fresh territory for me thats for sure.'

The pair went on to have some friendly jokes about Paul's appearance on the show, with the stand-in host praising Susanna for being so 'very nice' to him.

Susanna said: '"What fresh hell is this", you thought when you got the call.'

Paul replied: 'You've been very nice to me this morning thank you, gave me a hug when you arrived, I already feel settled in.'

Fans expressed their delight over Paul Brand's unexpected appearances on the show

'Not everyone gets a hug on this programme,' Susanna said.

Good Morning Britain fans were impressed by Paul's stint as co-host, with one writing on X: ''Brilliant love Paul Brand a proper journalist [sic].'

Another penned: 'How wonderful to turn on the TV this morning and see the gorgeous @PaulBrandITV with @susannareid100 #GMB.'

While a third commented: 'Love Paul. He should present GMB more often.'

Good Morning Britain airs every weekday from 6am to 9am on ITV1 and ITVX.
Lorraine viewers all made the same joke during Wednesday's show after Kelly presented a live segment on taxes.

The host, 65, had an infamous fight with HMRC back in 2019 which saw her escape a 1.2 million bill because she's a 'theatrical artist playing a persona.'

At the time a judge agreed she was not an ITV employee and instead was hired to perform 'the role of a friendly, chatty and fun personality'.

During the segment, Lorraine was joined by resident expert Claer Barrett ahead of next week's budget to discuss tax increases.

But viewers found humour in the situation with many claiming the discussion was 'ironic' given Lorraine's past.

Sharing their thoughts on X, they wrote: 'Maybe #lorraine could do a show on tax avoidance...'

Lorraine viewers all made the same joke during Wednesday's show after she presented segment on taxes

The host, 65, had an infamous fight with HMRC back in 2019 which saw her escape a 1.2 million bill because she's a 'theatrical artist playing a persona'

Others added: 'Talking about tax on #Lorraine Lorraine's eyes pretending she's interested in tax'; 'Lorraine the tax dodger talking about tax. The irony.'

Lorraine previously addressed her 2019 tax tribunal case, saying: 'I don't want people to think I would do anything to get out of paying what I should be paying.'

A judge said the Scottish star was a 'theatrical artist' who 'presents a persona of herself', agreeing she was not an ITV employee and instead was hired to perform 'the role of a friendly, chatty and fun personality'.

Lorraine told The Guardian she was happy to address the case 'because I've never got my chance to put my side of the story across'.

She added: 'I'm a firm believer in the NHS, a firm believer in better education and housing and looking after people who can't help themselves.

'I was brought up in a very working-class background where you pay your dues.'

Her on-screen break came in 1984 when she joined TV-am, and since then, she has become a familiar face on the small screen and has presented her hugely popular daily talk show Lorraine since 2010.

She told the paper she could 'live with' the mirth prompted by the ruling, which suggested she was essentially playing the role of Lorraine Kelly.

Viewers found humour in the situation with many claiming the discussion was 'ironic' given Lorraine's past

In 2019, a judge said the Scottish star was a 'theatrical artist' who 'presents a persona of herself', agreeing she was not an ITV employee and instead was hired to perform

The HMRC had argued that Kelly is effectively an ITV employee and should be subject to income tax and National Insurance payments.

But the judge ruled she was hired for her services as an entertainer and was in control of both her working day and her show.

'We were satisfied that Ms Kelly presents a persona of herself, she presents herself as a brand and that is the brand ITV sought when engaging her,' the judge said.

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'All parts of the show are a performance, the act being to perform the role of a friendly, chatty and fun personality.'

Kelly told The Guardian: 'Now that I can laugh at. It was, sadly, a bit of a misinterpretation but I knew what (the judge) meant. Obviously, it's given people great hilarity and I can live with that.'

The dispute hinged on a contract the Scottish star signed with ITV Breakfast in 2012 to present the 'Daybreak' and 'Lorraine' shows.

She did the deal through her services company, Albatel Limited, but HMRC insisted she in reality became an ITV employee.

At the time, Kelly told Judge Dean she was 'baffled' by HMRC's attitude and denied that tax and national insurance should have been deducted from her income under the PAYE system.

She said she had been 'freelance' since 1992 and had since then worked for the BBC, Channel 4, Scottish TV, Sky and ITV, also writing weekly columns for the Sun newspaper.

She considered it an 'honour and a responsibility' that she is one of the handful of TV stars whose names are in the titles of their shows.

She can endorse commercial products however she likes, launching a clothing range for JD Williams, acting as a brand ambassador for Avon and appearing in an online advert for furniture company, Wayfair.

Giving an example of her independence, she said she had refused to interview Elton John on a live link from Australia at 4am as she was filming with the BBC later in the day.

Explaining the 'give and take' in her relationship with ITV, she said she had been absent from the broadcaster's morning schedule for four weeks in 2017 when she went on an expedition to Antarctica.
Eammon Homes gave GB News viewers a heartbreaking insight into his current health battles live on air, before being abruptly cut off by bosses.

The presenter, 65, was covering the current investigation into Peter Mandelson for urinating in the street in London.

He explained that due to his own battles with spinal issues, there are times when he simply 'can't wait' when he has to go to the bathroom.

'I'm getting over a medical condition, and I just can't wait,' he said to his co-host Ellie Costello.

'And then (Mandelson) was in the street. But what else is the man to do? Knock on someone's door and say, "Would you let me go and have a pee in your house?"

'Most people are going to say, how dare you, I'm not going to do that. So I'm saying there is a difficulty in public about where you actually go to relieve yourself. That's the thing.'

Eammon Homes gave GB News viewers a heartbreaking insight into his current health battles live on air before being cut off by bosses

He explained that due to his own battles with spinal issues, there are times when he simply 'can't wait' when he has to go to the bathroom

Eammon then admitted that bosses were telling him to swiftly move the breakfast discussion on and took a swipe at them for not viewing the topic with more nuance.

'And as my producer says in my ear the give away is next. They're obviously not interested in this dilemma or how it relates to me identifying with it,' he said.

The presenter's health woes significantly worsened in 2021 when he had spinal surgery that resulted in complications that have left him wheelchair bound.

The television personality said that he is forcing himself to 'battle on', admitting that his health is now so poor that he requires the assistance of carers.

Eamonn told Sunday World: 'I have to have carers now looking after me. Somebody dresses me in the morning, somebody undresses me at night, somebody gets my food for me.

'I have to be tested with spinal injections to see if it will take, and then grow some life back into my spine and legs. It's all very experimental. I'll know next week. I'd say this is the toughest stage of my life ever. And I just battle on.'

Eammon's comments come after disgraced Labour grandee Mandelson could find out the true cost of 'spending a penny' after he was caught short in public last week.

The former US Ambassador faces a fine if he is found to have been in breach of local by-laws after he urinated in the street in upmarket Notting Hill, west London.

The presenter, 65, was covering the current investigation into Peter Mandelson for urinating in the street in London

The television personality said that he is forcing himself to 'battle on', admitting that his health is now so poor that he requires the assistance of carers

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea Council has now confirmed it is investigating the incident after the Daily Mail first broke the story of Lord Mandelson's late-night incident.

Councillor Johnny Thalassites, the London council's lead member for environment and planning, said it was 'unacceptable' for people to treat public spaces as a personal toilet.

He said: 'We are aware of images appearing to show a prominent politician caught short on one of our streets and are investigating whether an offence has been committed.

'While we appreciate that nature can call at the most inconvenient moments, we are proud of our borough's clean streets and amazing spaces and it is unacceptable for anyone to treat them as a urinal.'

Urinating in public is an offence under the Public Order Act 1986.

It can be dealt with by way of a warning, but it can also lead to a fixed penalty notice or prosecution.

The incident comes after Eammon raged that 'nobody cares' about his 'special needs' in a rant live on GB News last month

The incident comes after Eammon raged that 'nobody cares' about his 'special needs' in a rant live on GB News last month.

The Irish star revealed his frustration with the decline of customer service within businesses while discussing the mass internet outage by Amazon Web Services.

The presenter then admitted that he is disappointed with the lack of contact from human representatives.

He told viewers: 'Do you know what's so annoying?

'I spent the weekend, and I mean the weekend, on various phone lines, and the minimum take was 40 minutes, 38 minutes, to be answered by a human being.'

'Take Apple, for instance, they will do everything to avoid you speaking to a human being.

'Instead, they keep you [on hold] until you want to end your life.'

'It was at this point that the broadcaster lifted the lid on the complications he faces with his disability when booking hotel rooms.

Eamonn fumed: 'Do you know what? You can't even phone a hotel anymore. You've got to go to a website, but I don't want to go to a website.

'I want to talk to people and explain I've got special needs.

'I need a bathroom with bars so I can hold and stand up in the shower with or whatever, but you just cannot speak to anybody.

'But nobody cares.'
Former Miss Universe Olivia Rogers has revealed that she feared losing her baby soon after learning she was pregnant.

The 33-year-old beauty queen, who announced she was expecting her first child with boyfriend Hugo Breakey on Monday, described the happy news as a 'miracle'.

Olivia, who is 14 weeks pregnant, shared her anguish over her difficult fertility journey in her Tell Me More podcast.

'We're very happy, and very grateful, it's a miracle,' she said in Tuesday's episode.

She added: 'I was like, "Sh**, if this is legitimate and I don't lose this baby"  which I really strongly thought I would for the first few weeks  I didn't let myself get too excited because I didn't think it was going to stick around.'

Olivia revealed back in 2023 that she was freezing her eggs after experiencing trouble conceiving naturally with her ex-husband Justin McKeone.

Olivia Rogers (pictured) has revealed that she feared losing her baby soon after learning she was pregnant

The 33yearold beauty queen announced she was expecting her first child with boyfriend Hugo Breakey on Monday. (Both pictured)

'I have a lot of single women who follow me who are going through something similar to what I went through, where you find yourself single at 30 and you think, "Sh**, is this ever going to happen for me?"' she said.

'And then making the decision about whether or not you freeze your eggs. And that is all so hard.'

It comes after the Australian media personality took to Instagram on Monday to break the joyous news to her followers.

In the post, Olivia and Hugo could be seen in a photo booth, holding up a baby scan while striking a series of poses.

One frame showed the parents-to-be with giant smiles on their faces while another showed them locking lips behind the ultrasound scan.

In the second slide, the former Miss Universe, 33, shared a picture of her baby scan next to a cup of coffee with a heart sweetly outlined in milk foam.

'So happy to share our exciting news,' she captioned the post, before revealing when she was expecting her bundle of joy.

'We can't wait for May 2026.'

She also shared a video of the moment when she discovered she was expecting after taking a pregnancy test.

It comes after the Australian media personality took to Instagram on Monday to break the joyous news to her followers

Olivia went public with her new man in June last year when the pair attended the premiere of Beauty and the Beast in Melbourne.

The former Miss Universe Australia split from husband Justin in October 2022, just eight months after their wedding.

The Adelaideborn model addressed her breakup on social media in October 2022.

Olivia said she finally decided to leave Justin months into their marriage after confessing her feelings to her therapist.

The pair got engaged in 2019, but their wedding was postponed due to the Covid pandemic.

The ceremony was eventually held at Terindah Estate on Victoria's Bellarine Peninsula in February 2022.
Michelle Yeoh has revealed that she grew up feeling like she should be 'seen and not heard' due to her Asian parents as she opened up about racism in the film industry in a new interview on Wednesday.

The Malaysian actress, 63, spoke to Elizabeth Day on her How To Fail podcast where she looked back over her career and upbringing.

Michelle grew up in Ipoh, Malaysia. As a teenager, she moved to London to train at the Royal Academy of Dance.

She said of her childhood: 'I feel that with Asian parents, especially moms, they try to have their children be seen and not heard.

'The girls should behave like girls, not make loud noises and things like that.

'My mom instilled that in us and it took me a while to go to her and say, 'actually it's not true, we can speak our minds and we don't always have to agree with what everybody else is saying'.

Michelle Yeoh has revealed that she grew up feeling like she should be 'seen and not heard' due to her Asian parents as she opened up about racism in the film industry in a new interview on Wednesday

The Malaysian actress, 63, spoke to Elizabeth Day on her How To Fail podcast where she looked back over her career and upbringing (seen this week)

She also discussed her experiences of racism in the film industry, saying one of the beautiful things about the film Wicked was that it taught people it is okay to be different.

Asked if she experiences racism she said: 'I would be lying if I say no, I'll put it delicately because they dare not show us very direct racism because of the position I'm in right now. Maybe five years ago even then you would face it, you'd see the people go like, 'what's an Asian person doing here?'.

'I think the distribution of wealth has helped as well, but unfortunately it's quite apparent still today in America, when you hear of Asian, older women get punched in the face for just walking down the street and just because young girls or boys get harassed and bullied because they're Asians.

'I don't understand, to date why it's still happening. So that's why when a movie like what we've done with Wicked comes out where we encourage people to see it's beautiful to be different because that's how we are all made.

'All of us are different and I think the worst, one of our worst human traits is that we're judgemental. We like to judge. We like to be like above. I don't know why we always think that we have to be better and be able to tell the other person or put them down or whatever it is.

'I think that is something I hope that we all learn that an act of kindness or compassion goes a long, long way in our world, and we are in so desperate need of that.'

Michelle grew up in Ipoh, Malaysia . As a teenager, she moved to London to train at the Royal Academy of Dance

Her podcast interview comes after she set tongues wagging with her latest look as she attended the Wicked: For Good New York Premiere at David Geffen Hall on Monday.

The actress normally looks impossibly stylish, however fans accused her of hitting a bum style note when she graced the red carpet this week.

Michelle, who was debuting cropped hair, stepped out wearing a dramatic neon yellow tulle dress with a stunning statement diamond necklace.

Many thought Michelle had hired a new stylist because the outfit was worlds away from her usual glamorous attire.

They said: 'It's giving grandma's toilet paper cover. Someone has to do it every red carpet! This cupcake one takes the cake!'; 'Who picked that dress'; 'Why is she starting to make so many questionable fashion choices?'

'Who is a new stylist?'; 'Stop with his ridiculous tour'; 'They all act weird'; That can only be done for a huge pay check. There is no way a person will wear that voluntarily without being greatly compensated'; 'She is a beautiful woman... stylist has some explaining to do'; 'Normally she looks fantastic, but this dress is downright comical'.

Michelle's outfits at the other screenings have been far more typical of her usual style.

She said of her childhood: 'I feel that with Asian parents, especially moms, they try to have their children be seen and not heard'

In Singapore last week, Michelle looked incredible in a bubble style dress with a deeply plunging neckline and a bouncy blonde bob.

Before this she attended the European premiere in a strapless black dress, with her dark locks swept off her face into a sleek bun.

During a night out in Paris with the cast, Michelle, who plays Madame Morrible, was dressed to impress in a purple caped evening gown with white opera gloves.

The jaw-dropping outfits and appearances from the stars of the film on the promo tour have once again created water-cooler moments.
The 9News Melbourne team bade an emotional farewell to Livinia Nixon this week.

Livinia, 50, delivered her final broadcast as weather presenter on Tuesday night after 21 years in the role.

The occasion was marked by a five-minute package that highlighted Livinia's two decades of bringing Melburnians the weather.

'The secret to Livo's success has been her ability to just be herself,' Tony Jones said over a montage of some of Livinia's memorable on-air moments.

'The Livinia Nixon you see in your lounge room each night is the same Livinia we see in the newsroom each day.'

The package concluded with a heartfelt: 'Best to check that pollen count one more time, Livo, because there's watery eyes across Melbourne tonight.'

The 9News Melbourne team bade an emotional farewell to Livinia Nixon this week

Throwing back to the newsroom, Livinia was surrounded by the entire 9News Melbourne team and family members, who gathered to bid her the fond farewell.

'You really are the ray of sunshine in our team,' Tom Steinfort said. 'We have people come up to us all the time and say: "Livinia seems nice on air but what's she like in real life?" and I say: 'Even More wonderful.'

'You are such a beautiful person. I will miss you, and I hope you know how many people at home are going to miss welcoming you into their living rooms.'

An appreciative Livinia then reciprocated the love, admitting the decision to leave was not easy.

'This is a very difficult decision to make because I do love this job,' she said.

'But I feel it's the right decision at the right time for my family. I want to see my boys chase their dreams.'

Livinia went on to thank husband Alistair and Channel Nine for their 'unwavering support' after she announced her exit.

Although Livinia is stepping away from the 9News team, she is not leaving the network entirely and will still appear on Getaway and Postcards.

The occasion was marked by a five minute package that highlighted Livinia's two decades of bringing Melburnians the weather.

Livinia was surrounded by the entire 9News Melbourne team and family members

'I'm really excited about staying on Postcards and Getaway  I've actually got my suitcases packed  I have to do a short trip tomorrow with Getaway which I'm looking forward to.'

Livinia ended her final broadcast with a heartfelt tribute to her colleagues.

'To the incredible team that's here at 9News, it really is a machine that works so hard every night, and I will miss you all immensely and I love you all.'

Livinia, who has been with Nine since 1997, shocked viewers earlier this month when she announced she was leaving her weather presenting role after two decades.

'After 20 years presenting weather on 9News, I've decided to step back from this role,' she said.

'My sons will both be in high school and I want to be there to support them.

'It's been a privilege to be welcomed into viewers' homes for so long, but this is the right time for my family.'

'Presenting the weather has shaped my life and career. I owe this role everything but this is the right decision for me,' she continued.

'To the incredible team that's here at 9News, it really is a machine that works so hard every night, and I will miss you all immensely and I love you all,' Livinia said

'When I discussed it with our boys, they said, "We're pretty excited to spend more time with you, Mum."'

Nine's National News Director Hugh Nailon commended Livinia's vast career in the newsroom, calling her a 'shining star' of the industry.

'Livinia's contribution to the Melbourne newsroom has been immeasurable,' he said.

'She has been a shining star on 9News for two decades, delivering Melbourne's weather with warmth, expertise and unmatched professionalism.

'We are all incredibly proud of her and wholeheartedly support her decision to put her family first.

'She is a true asset to the 9Network and we are delighted that she will remain with us on Getaway and Postcards.'

Livinia shares two sons  Henry, 15, and Ted, 12  with husband Alistair Jack.
The simmering feud between adult content creators Annie Knight and Bonnie Blue escalated again this week.

Annie, 27, appeared on The Kyle and Jackie O Show alongside British porn star Lily Phillips where she made some not-so-subtle remarks about Bonnie, with whom she has been feuding for months.

'You've earned millions of dollars doing this the right way, but some people are doing this the wrong way?' host Kyle Sandilands asked Annie.

Co-host Jackie 'O' Henderson then jumped in with: 'Is this Bonnie Blue we're talking about?' to which Annie replied with a flat: 'Yep.'

'Her morals were just very different to mine. We were friends and I stood up for her a lot and then she basically just turned around and stabbed me in the back,' Annie said.

'[Bonnie] was trying to get me banned from OnlyFans and, because she got banned from OnlyFans, I think she didn't like that I was still on the platform and still making money.'

The simmering feud between adult content creators Annie Knight and Bonnie Blue (pictured) escalated again this week

Annie added that she and Bonnie differed wildly in their approach to content creation.

'The difference is because my morals were always different, my intentions behind things were always different, the way I spoke about things was very different,' she said.

The drama escalated later in the expansive chat when Kyle and Jackie O got Bonnie on the line to give her side.

The radio duo asked Bonnie if there was any chance the rift between her and Annie could be mended.

'Girls need to support girls. Have you heard that?' Kyle said. 'Will you guys all start supporting each other again?' to which Annie replied: 'I've always been supportive.'

For her part, Bonnie admitted that she was reluctant to mend fences with her former bestie.

'It just depends,' she said. 'It feels like we go around in circles.'

'I run a business, we all run a business and we should all just be happy and do what we want to do in terms of content,' Bonnie added before Annie interjected with: 'Without dragging our friends down.'

Annie, 27, appeared on The Kyle and Jackie O Show alongside British porn star Lily Phillips when she made some not-so-subtle remarks about Bonnie

Bonnie then replied with a cutting: 'The names Annie and Lily have not come out of my mouth for months, so, it's not really me you need to be looking at.'

Things went from bad to worse when Jackie asked Annie if she had any words for Bonnie.

When she replied she had no words, Bonnie certainly did not mince hers.

'It's funny though because you say you've got nothing to say, but your social media says Bonnie Blue is a liar, Bonnie Blue is not doing schoolies. I'm 100 per cent doing schoolies,' she said.

Annie shot back claiming that Bonnie was currently in Thailand, a fact the latter strongly refuted.

'It's my body and I know exactly where I am,' she said. 'The bang bus is in Australia, but I will be in Bali schoolies and I'm remaining in Bali for schoolies.'

Annie jumped in with: 'Are you going do sex work in Bali, a country or a city in Indonesia where sex work is illegal?'

The drama escalated when Kyle and Jackie O got Bonnie on the line

'I don't need to confirm what I'm doing, but I just will be doing schoolies,' she said. 'I don't owe you anything. My name cannot stay out of your mouth.'

Annie doubled down on her assertion that she differed morally from her former pal.

'I've got very different morals to you, and I'm going to speak out when I think that someone's doing something to damage the industry that we're in.'

The tit for tat continued until Bonnie left the chat, with no resolution reached between her and Annie.

Trying one last time, Kyle asked Annie: 'Would you and Bonnie ever do anything again.'

Annie, once again shot down the suggestion with an emphatic 'no'.

'No, I have different morals,' she said. 'I don't want to be aligned with what Bonnie does.'
Kourtney Kardashian revealed she is still breastfeeding her two-year-old son, Rocky Thirteen, during Women's Wear Daily's Beauty Inc awards event in New York on Tuesday.

The reality TV star, 46, was part of a panel called 'Lemme Lead: Redefining Wellness & Access' at WWD's The Catalysts, where she promoted her Lemme brand of vitamins and supplements along with co-founder Simon Huck.

Kardashian, who shares Rocky, born November 2023, with rocker husband Travis Barker, 50, spoke about breastfeeding while discussing how she maintains her energy as a busy mom of four.

After the moderator, WWD's Jenny B. Fine, asked where she gets her vigor from, Kardashian - who recently sparked pregnancy rumors - replied, 'How do I get my energy? Honestly, I have no idea. I wonder that. I do no alcohol. I'm breastfeeding.'

Huck, 42, added, 'You were a matcha girl before.'

The Kardashians star, who looked chic in a white suit at the event, then replied, 'I cannot wait to have matcha again.'

Kourtney Kardashian revealed she is still breastfeeding her two-year-old son, Rocky Thirteen, during Women's Wear Daily's beauty event, The Catalysts, in New York on Tuesday

The reality star, who was part of a panel with pal Simon Huck, told the moderator that she does not drink caffeine and does not drink coffee because she's breastfeeding

Kardashian, who shares Rocky, born November 2023, with rocker husband Travis Barker, 50, spoke about how takes supplements instead to maintain her energy as a busy mom

'It's a choice. I technically could have it, I think while breastfeeding, but it's just become a choice.'

Healthcare providers recommend exclusive breastfeeding until a baby reaches about six months of age, according to Cleveland Clinic.

It is then recommended to continue breastfeeding until the child is 12 months or older while introducing other complementary foods.

As for how she manages to balance it all, Kardashian said she has a few non-negotiables.

'I think for me, I have my real only non-negotiable right now because I think moms get it that sometimes your things come last. So I would say walking daily and taking my supplements, those are the two things. And getting at least eight hours of sleep.'

The mom-of-four, who was joined by Lemme co-founder Simon Huck on the panel, also shared that she's avoiding coffee.

'I take different formats throughout the day. So I do feel especially like we just did our liquid, Lemme Colostrum, and that one, I just put it straight into my mouth. That's my way of doing it.

'I think it's supposed to go in coffee, right? And I don't drink coffee, and I don't drink caffeine, actually, but I put it straight into my mouth. That's just my way.'

Kardashian showed off her bangs and wore a chic white suit to the WWD event on Tuesday

Kardashian recently shared a heart-melting snap of her with baby Rocky after she delivered him, as she marked his second birthday on Instagram

She continued, 'To me, with wellness, it's finding the routine. That is how you can keep consistent with it.'

Kardashian, who also has three children  Mason, 15, Penelope, 13, and Reign, 10  with ex-partner Scott Disick, went on to discuss how she takes care of her wellness while being a busy mom.

'I think that it's really just about doing it in moderation, whatever that means to you and as little or as much as you're able to do it. I've had times where I'm full force wellness girl and I just, it's like my whole day.

'And then there's times right now where as I'm sure moms can relate, sometimes you're last on the list and it's not what I can spend all my days doing.'

She went on to say that 'there's only so much time in the day,' and that beauty for her is more 'from within.'

Elsewhere during the discussion, Kardashian revealed that she doesn't get too much business advice from her manager mom Kris Jenner, 70, or her famous siblings, Kim, Khloe, Kendall and Kylie.

'Not for any reason other than I feel like when we're together, we just don't really talk business that much,' she explained.

She added that Kris knows what's going on with all of their businesses, and that if she does have a serious question, she goes to the momager for answers.

Kardashian and Huck accepted the award on behalf of Lemme for 'Brand of the Year: Wellness' during WWD Beauty Inc Awards on Tuesday

Kardashian wore a black minidress as she attended the Beauty Inc Awards at Lavan Midtown

The star posed for a fun snap with award recipients Grace Ray (left) and Denee Pearson (right)

Kardashian added that she enjoys when the family can find ways to collaborate.

'It's always fun when we can do things together. Like Kim just did our colostrum campaign with me, which was really fun.'

The star went on to give insight into her supplement routine, stating that she's currently battling 'a little cold' and is 'doubling down on Lemme immunity' to which she adds oil over oregano.

She also said she takes magnesium 'every night before sleep' as well as an 'oral probiotic.'

Her other daily supplement is Lemme Purr, designed to support vaginal health, which she called a 'non-negotiable.'

'I have a full routine from powders and our liquid colostrum and it's like an all day - but it's simple. I have it dialed in where it's just like throughout the day, it's like certain times that I'm taking it.'

She also joked that sometimes she treats her Lemme gummies as her dessert.

'I told Simon this last night, I am staying in a hotel and my daughter [Penelope] and I ordered room service, and then I didn't order dessert.'

Kardashian told the crowd on Tuesday that she recently took two Lemme Debloat gummies as a 'sweat treat' since she forgot to order dessert at her hotel

'And so afterwards I'm like, "Okay, I'm having two Lemme Debloat." And that's like a sweet treat for me when I need something sweet.

'I'm a dessert girl, and I just forgot to order dessert, but so to me, it's part of keeping it feeling slightly fun and unserious in that way.'

Meanwhile, her business partner Huck revealed that their brand Lemme, which first launched in September 2022, has eight new products coming out in the next nine months.

Kourtney then teased an upcoming major beauty brand collab: 'We have two really exciting collabs coming, but I can't say what they are. I would say two of my favorite brands that we're collaborating with.'

Simon added, 'One is a big beauty brand that you and Travis are obsessed with and can help Penelope.'

Later on in the evening, Kourtney and Simon accepted the award for, 'Brand of the Year: Wellness,' during WWD Beauty Inc Awards.

She told the intimate crowd, 'I started my wellness journey when I had my first baby, almost 16 years ago. And everything I do is for my kids in this space. And so it means so much to me, so thank you guys. I'm so grateful.'

The admission of her still breastfeeding comes after her fans went into overdrive during the weekend over speculation that star has dropped a hint she is expecting a fifth child.

Fans have been speculating that the star has dropped a hint she is expecting a fifth child, after she shared a photo of her husband Travis holding a pair of baby sneakers over the weened

Kardashian also has three children  Mason, 15, Penelope, 13, and Reign, 10  with ex-partner Scott Disick. Travis has Landon, 22, and Alabama, 19, with his ex-wife Shanna Moakler, and stepdaughter Atiana De La Hoya, 26, whom Moakler had with former boxer Oscar De La Hoya

The clue the fans think they spotted was in a photo from a recent post where the reality TV siren was wishing her husband, Travis, a happy 50th birthday.

In one of the images, a pair of black-and-white baby sneakers from the company Vans could be seen.

The shoes could have likely been for their son, Rocky, as they seemed to be his size and they also had an 'R' on the back.

Kardashian has consistently shut down rumors she is pregnant with a fifth child.

She has also responded to speculation on social media, attributing any perceived changes to lifestyle choices like 'eating pancakes and jumping off cliffs' or other factors like breastfeeding and enjoying food.

While she has denied recent pregnancy rumors, some sources report she 'really wants more kids' with Barker, and that he supports the idea.

Travis also has Landon, 22, and Alabama, 19, with his ex-wife Shanna Moakler, who was a Playboy model.

And he is a devoted stepfather to Moakler's daughter Atiana De La Hoya, 26, whom the model had with former boxer Oscar De La Hoya.
Naomi Watts surfaced in New York this Tuesday, in her first sighting since her amicable ex Liev Schreiber was hospitalized for a health scare over the weekend.

Although they split in 2016, the former couple retained a friendly co-parenting relationship as they brought up their children Sasha, 18, and Kai, 16.

Their bonhomie extended to the point that Schreiber publicly shared his warm congratulations when Watts married Billy Crudup two years ago.

Schreiber, 58, was rushed to the hospital in New York on Sunday with a concerning headache and spent the night there on doctor's orders.

He underwent testing on Monday and was 'cleared to return to work,' his representative told the Daily Mail. He has now checked out of the hospital

The following day Watts, 57, appeared careworn and makeup-free as she stepped out in New York City to take her tiny rescue dog Izzy for a walk.

Naomi Watts surfaced in New York this Tuesday, in her first sighting since her amicable ex Liev Schreiber was hospitalized for a health scare over the weekend

Eschewing the glamour of her recent Ryan Murphy shows All's Fair and Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, Watts opted for a casual ensemble.

She pulled on a cozy-looking boyfriend fit dark grey sweater, teamed with a set of Free City sweats and a pair of camel-toned slippers.

The King Kong actress' mood looked as though it might be somewhat downcast as she headed up the street in the gathering late-autumn chill.

Her sighting came as Schreiber broke his silence after being rushed to the hospital in New York City on Sunday evening.

His rep told the Daily Mail that Schreiber is doing much better, saying in a statement: 'Out of an abundance of caution, Liev went into the hospital for testing and as of this afternoon, he has been cleared to return to work.'

The actor has been in Philadelphia filming an untitled Apple TV+ thriller based on Lars Kepler's bestselling Killer Instinct.

A source has told the Daily Mail that Schreiber has been left 'embarrassed' by all the attention his hospital visit has garnered and does not like that people knew he went to the hospital for a headache as it makes him look 'weak' when he is at the height of his career.

But the star is also just glad he is feeling much better as the pain was 'intolerable' and he is grateful to the doctors who helped him.

Although they split in 2016, the former couple retained a friendly co-parenting relationship as they brought up their children Sasha, 18, and Kai, 16

Schreiber, 58, was rushed to the hospital in New York on Sunday with a concerning headache and spent the night there on doctor's orders

He underwent testing on Monday and was 'cleared to return to work,' his representative told the Daily Mail

Eschewing the glamour of her recent Ryan Murphy shows All's Fair and Feud: Capote vs. the Swans, Watts opted for a casual ensemble

She pulled on a cozy-looking boyfriend fit dark grey sweater, teamed with a set of Free City sweats and a pair of camel-toned slippers

Schreiber was able to move about fine on Monday and later checked out of the hospital, the site also noted.

It's not the first time the actor has had a health scare related to a headache.

In 2024, he revealed that he was diagnosed with a rare condition called transient global amnesia (TGA), brought on by a migraine, while starring in 'Doubt: A Parable' on Broadway.

TGA is a rare, benign condition characterized by a sudden episode of memory loss that resolves completely within 24 hours, according to the Cleveland Clinic.

'The worst nightmare that an actor could possibly ever experience. I was in my dressing room and I had a terrible headache. I thought it was maybe a fast-food headache, but it felt a little stronger than that,' he shared during an appearance on Late Night with Seth Meyers.

'I'm walking down the stairs and Im thinking, "This is not normal. I don't feel okay."'

He said he knew 'something was really wrong' when he saw his co-star, Amy Ryan, backstage but could not remember her name.

His condition worsened when he stepped back onstage and could not remember his lines.

The King Kong actress' mood looked as though it might be somewhat downcast as she headed up the street in the gathering late-autumn chill

Schreiber and Watts were together for 11 years before they broke up in 2016 - a development eclipsed by the much more publicly acrimonious divorce of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie

Schreiber and Neisen then exchanged vows over the summer of 2023 at the sprawling Montauk mansion that he originally lived in with Watts

When the newlyweds announced the birth of their daughter on Instagram, Watts ecstatically commented: 'We love baby Hazel!!'

Watts, who shares a famously amicable co-parenting relationship with Schreiber, previously revealed that Sasha and Kai have developed an interest in acting

'It seems theyve got the bug,' said Watts, confessing that she harbors 'mixed feelings' about her children becoming performers, via Net-a-Porter

When Sasha headed off to college in August, Watts touchingly posted a photo of herself sobbing into his chest as he stood outside surrounded by his luggage

'It all vanishes,' he explained. 'The play is gone from my head... I know I'm in a play, but I don't know what play I'm in.'

'My doctor, who's a friend, shows up, and he had a terrified expression. My wife shows up, and she looks terrified. I think, "Okay, I've had a stroke. This is it."'

Despite being diagnosed with Transient Global Amnesia, Schreiber was certain he had suffered a stroke.

'The guy said, "Youll never have this again and it'll be gone in 8 to 24 hours," which I didn't believe. You know, as a typical sort of Jewish hypochondriac person, I'm convinced that I had a stroke and they just didn't find it.'

Schreiber revealed that he got an MRI and it showed that there was no brain bleed, and that his brain looked 'perfectly fine.'

'Apparently it's brought on by migraines and rigorous coitus,' he quipped.

'I go to sleep, I wake up, I remember the whole play,' he recalled. 'I never had another problem with it. I was embarrassed and thought everyone would think I was lying and taking a night off from the theater.'

Meyers joked that it was 'so sad' that the Emmy-nominated star got TGA from a migraine and not from sex.

Her latest sighting came as Schreiber broke his silence after being rushed to the hospital in New York City on Sunday evening

His rep told the Daily Mail: 'Out of an abundance of caution, Liev went into the hospital for testing and as of this afternoon, he has been cleared to return to work'

A source has told the Daily Mail that Schreiber has been left 'embarrassed' by all the attention his hospital visit has garnered

'I know! When the other option is to literally have your brains f***** out, I had to get it from a migraine,' Schreiber said with a laugh.

Schreiber is perhaps best known for starring in the title role of the Showtime crime drama series Ray Donovan, which aired from 2013 until 2020.

The San Francisco native is married to Taylor Neisen, 32; they met in 2017, married in July 2023, and had their first child, a daughter named Hazel Bee, in August 2023.

Schreiber and Watts were together for 11 years before they broke up in 2016 - a development eclipsed by the much more publicly acrimonious divorce of Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie around the same time.

By contrast, Watts and Schreiber retained such an amicable co-parenting equation that they went into self-isolation together with Neisen during the coronavirus lockdowns so that Sasha and Kai be with both of their parents.

Schreiber and Neisen then exchanged vows over the summer of 2023 at the sprawling Montauk mansion that he originally lived in with Watts.

When the newlyweds announced the birth of their daughter on Instagram, Watts ecstatically commented: 'We love baby Hazel!!'

Amid Schreiber's blossoming romance with Neisen, Watts struck up a relationship with Billy Crudup, whom she eventually married in June 2023.

Watts, who shares a famously amicable co-parenting relationship with Schreiber, previously revealed that Sasha and Kai have developed an interest in acting.

'It seems theyve got the bug,' said Watts, confessing that she harbors 'mixed feelings' about her children becoming performers, via Net-a-Porter.

When Sasha headed off to college in August, Watts touchingly posted a photo of herself sobbing into his chest as he stood outside surrounded by his luggage.
Billy Bob Thornton got candid about why his marriage to Angelina Jolie came to an end after only three years.

The 70-year-old Landman actor - who has since tied the knot with Connie Angland - opened up about the topic during an interview with Rolling Stone published on Tuesday.

Thornton and Jolie said 'I do' back in 2000 in Las Vegas despite their 20-year age gap. However, their divorce was finalized three years later.

'That was the one that ended up being a really civilized breakup,' he expressed to the outlet. 'We simply split up because our lifestyles were so different.'

The star added that both he and the Maleficent actress 'had a great time together' before revealing that it had also been 'one of the greatest times of my life.'

In regards to their relationship two decades after calling it quits, Thornton said, 'She and I are still very, very close friends.'

Billy Bob Thornton, 70, got candid about why his marriage to Angelina Jolie, 50, came to an end after only three years; seen earlier this month in NYC

'That was the one that ended up being a really civilized breakup,' he expressed to the outlet. 'We simply split up because our lifestyles were so different'; former couple seen in 2001

Both he and Jolie first crossed paths in 1999 on set of Pushing Tin and the pair eloped in Las Vegas the following year.

In 2002, the then-couple announced their adoption of son Maddox - whom she requested full custody of after their split.

Back in 2016 while talking to GQ, the Bad Santa actor further reflected on their separation and said that he 'never felt good enough for' Jolie.

'I'm real uncomfortable around rich and important people,' Thornton expressed, adding that he preferred to stay home rather than attending red carpet events.

And during a past interview with ABC News' Nightline, he stated that he 'blew it' when it came to his marriage to Jolie.

'I blew it because I didn't think I was good enough for her. She has one way she wanted to live her life and I had another way to live mine and I was just too insecure.'

He continued, 'I did feel like the Phantom of the Opera hiding in the catacombs. People have actually said that I didn't deserve to be with her.'

Thornton also told Us Weekly back in 2019: 'We're good friends. We've been friends for years and years and years.'

The star added that both he and the Maleficent actress 'had a great time together' before revealing that it had also been 'one of the greatest times of my life'; seen in 2000

Back in 2016 while talking to GQ , the Bad Santa actor further reflected on their separation and said that he 'never felt good enough for' Jolie; seen earlier this month in London

The actor added, 'We keep up with each other. She's not in town a lot, so we don't see each other much, but we talk.'

At the height of their past romance, the scrutiny was relentless - something Thornton still remembers as 'very weird.'

'When we got together for some reason, the people and the media were very interested in celebrity couples. So it was weird,' he stated in his latest interview with Rolling Stone.

'We couldn't go anywhere. And then of course we had times when we would say things that became sound bites or whatever.'

He also addressed one of the most infamous pop-culture myths of the era: the so-called 'vials of blood' they allegedly wore around their necks.

Thornton insisted the story has been blown wildly out of proportion.

He said the items weren't vials at all: 'We each had a little locket, literally with a drop of blood in them. That's a romantic little idea, and that's all that was.'

But over time, he said, public fascination twisted the gesture into something 'negative.'

He also addressed one of the most infamous pop-culture myths of the era: the so-called 'vials of blood' they allegedly wore around their necks; seen in 2001 in Hollywood

But over time, he said, public fascination twisted the gesture into something 'negative'; seen in 2019 in West Hollywood

'By the time it's over, we're vampires. We live in a dungeon, we drink each other's blood, that kind of stuff.'

The actor previously talked about the blood necklaces during an appearance at Loyola Marymount University's School of Film Television in 2014.

He said: '[A] vial of blood is very simple. Angie came home one day with a kit she bought.

'You know those lockets you buy that are clear and you put a picture of your grannie in it or something like that and wear it around your neck? That's what it was.

'She thought it would be interesting and romantic if we took a little razor blade and sliced our fingers, smeared a little blood on these lockets and you wear it around your neck just like you wear your son or daughter's baby hair in one.'

Thornton tied the knot with wife Connie Angland in 2014 after the pair first met in 2003; the couple seen in 2022 in Hollywood

The Fargo actor continued, 'Same thing. From that we were wearing quart jars of blood around our necks.'

Thornton shares daughter Amanda, 46, with ex Melissa Lee Gatlin; sons William, 32, and Harry, 30, with ex-wife Pietra Dawn Cherniak; and daughter Bella, 20, with Connie Angland.

As for Jolie - who is mom to Maddox, 24, Pax, 21, Zahara, 20, Shiloh, 19, and 16-year-old twins Knox and Vivienne - she's publicly echoed his affection over the years.

'I still love him dearly and think the world of him,' she said in 2008. 'And I'm proud to have been his wife for a time.'
The iconic role of Dorothy Gale is played by a Surrey-based Pilates instructor in Wicked: For Good, it has been revealed.

Producers of the sequel film starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo as Glinda and Elphaba chose to keep her identity a secret for months.

But she is in fact played by 30-year-old Bethany Weaver - who features for only 69 seconds and says a total of six words, reports The Sun.

Dorothy is a fictional character created by author L. Frank Baum as the protagonist in many of his Oz novels.

She first appears in Baum's classic 1900 children's novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reappears in most of its sequels.

She will be back for viewers and appear with other iconic characters like the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion.

The iconic role of Dorothy Gale is played by Surrey-based Pilates instructor Bethany Weaver in Wicked: For Good, it has been revealed

Dorothy is a fictional character created by author L. Frank Baum as the protagonist in many of his Oz novels (Judy Garland as Dorothy)

Bethany's face however is never shown in the upcoming film and her identity was kept a secret, with her not attending any of the premieres or press events.

Explaining the decision to not show her, director Jon M Chu said: 'I didn't want to step on who you think Dorothy is in whatever story that you came into this with.

'The sequel is still Elphaba and Glinda's journey, and she is a pawn in the middle of all of it.'

Cynthia added of the choice: 'I think that's such a wonderful thing to do because then everyone gets to keep the Dorothy they know.'

Bethany trained at The Urdang Academy in London and has a host of theatre jobs under her belt as well as her day job as a Pilates instructor.

Cynthia and Ariana have been busy promoting the new film all around the world in recent weeks.

And on Monday Cynthia spoke out about the terrifying moment Ariana was ambushed by a troll during Wicked's Singapore premiere last week.

Last Thursday, the duo hit the red carpet at the premiere for Wicked: For Good, the sequel to last year's movie based on the famous stage show, during which Ariana, who plays Glinda, was ambushed by a self-professed 'troll'.

She will be back for viewers and appear with other iconic characters like the Tin Man, the Scarecrow and the Cowardly Lion

She first appears in Baum's classic 1900 children's novel The Wonderful Wizard of Oz and reappears in most of its sequels

A terrified Ariana was struck by Johnson Wen, who stormed the red carpet, leading to an incensed Cynthia, who plays Elphaba, overtaking security and pushing him away. Johnson has since been given nine days jail time for the act.

Cynthia and Ariana appeared at a special Screen Actors Guild screening in Los Angeles on Saturday, during which the former spoke about how the movie helps make people 'feel safe' - before giving a nod to last week's ordeal.

She said: 'I mean, f**k, even this last week. Let's be honest, for f**k's sakes, we've had to really deal with some stuff, and this movie has allowed us to really grow as people, as friends, as sisters, as artists, as actresses.'

Last week, Johnson - the online prankster known as Pyjama Man - blew past security at Universal Studios and latched onto Ariana, wrapping an arm around her as she struggled to pull away - prior to Cynthia's lightning speed reactions.

Cynthia immediately jumped in, shouting at Wen while throwing herself between him and Grande as security tackled the intruder and dragged him off. Ariana was left visibly shaken on the carpet.

Hours later, Wen uploaded a chilling selfie with manic eyes, pointing at a Grande poster and bragging, 'I finally met Ariana Grande tonight.'

Despite continuing of their tireless promo trail, Ariana and Cynthia were yet to reference the attack, before Cynthia's heartfelt speech.

On the magic of Wicked, she said: 'What's even more wonderful is the fact that there are other people who have seen themselves in this movie, in that character, and also now see themselves and feel safe...

'That, for me, is the pinnacle of what I could ever wish for from any piece of work I have ever done. And I am so glad that in order to do it, I had to look into the eyes of this person beside me...

Producers of the sequel film starring Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo as Glinda and Elphaba chose to keep her identity a secret for months

'We have come through some stuff in our lives, in our daily workings...

'I mean, f**k, even this last week. Let's be honest, for f**k's sakes, we've had to really deal with some stuff, and this movie has allowed us to really grow as people, as friends, as sisters, as artists, as actresses.'

After the ambush, Cynthia's reactions earned her a flood of memes after she rescued Ariana when she was on hand to pull her from the ensuing melee, with many fans comparing her actions to those of Kevin Costner in The Bodyguard.

Taking to Instagram on Friday morning, fans heaped praise on the British actress for risking her own safety while assisting her co-star.
Kim Kardashian has responded to growing criticism around her 12-year-old daughter North West's finger piercings.

The pre-teen, who is the eldest of Kardashian's four children with ex-husband Kanye West, first debuted the controversial bling on her right hand back in August.

At the time, North showcased two small silver balls just below her knuckle on her right middle finger, which is believed to be a dermal piercing.

This type of piercing has a microdermal anchor which is placed under the top layer of the skin on the finger.

Last week, North appeared to get another dermal piercing on her fingers despite fan concern that she's 'too young' for body modification.

She shared a photo of the process of getting the piercing, which showed a rod going through North's finger, to TikTok, as per screenshots taken by The Sun.

Kim Kardashian has responded to growing criticism around her 12-year-old daughter North West's finger piercings

Back in August, North debuted two small silver balls just below her knuckle on her right middle finger, which is believed to be a dermal piercing

In response to North's latest bling, a TikTok user by the name @mazzy_williams made a post admitting they were 'heartbroken' over the decision and asked if others felt the same.

'north west getting a finger piercing is breaking my heart, just me?' she wrote overtop footage of herself with her hand over her mouth, which earned over 651,000 views.

She also captioned the video: 'what is going on #northwest #kardashians'

Two days later, Kim used her and North's joint TikTok account to leave a comment under @mazzy_williams' video.

'it's okay,' the SKIMS founder wrote, followed by an emoji of two hands forming a heart.

The comment has earned nearly 10,000 'likes' and inspired hundreds of people to chime in in defense of North as well as Kim and her parenting.

'It's such a non-issue,' commented one fan, with another adding: 'She wanted the piercing and Kim let her pls stop Kim's just trying to let her kids express themselves.'

'People just need to mind their business,' another TikTok user wrote.

However, there were still plenty of critics in the comments, with several calling the placing of North's piercing 'hazardous.'

'She's literally 12 lol she's a child and that's a pretty permanent decision,' read one comment.

Another wrote: 'it's very weird and don't let people gaslight in the comments including Kim and North lol'

After a fan recently expressed she was 'heartbroken' over North getting a piercing so young, Kim replied: 'it's okay'

North West (12) Shows off her new finger piercing.  pic.twitter.com/t7pQ1kH9z8   Mercedes   (@kalpriss) November 12, 2025

Experts say dermal piercings carry significant risks, particularly when placed on the hands, which are prone to bacteria, bumps and movement that can easily cause rejection or infection.

According to Healthline, dermal piercings 'carry a high risk of complications and this type of piercing requires meticulous aftercare'.

Many studios refuse to perform dermal piercings on anyone under 18, citing safety and hygiene concerns.

North's latest piercing debut quickly circulated online after photos were also shared on Reddit, where users debated whether the tween's parents should have allowed the procedure.

'This is what happens when you need to be your child's best friend and not a rational adult,' one critic wrote.

Another said, 'I couldn't imagine giving my 12-year-old permission to have dermal and surface piercings like this, especially with the complications that come with them.'

Others pointed out the potential medical risks.

'The potential for serious injury with this piercing is so unnecessarily high. Infection, rejection, nerve damage. A 12-year-old is not mature enough to care for this piercing responsibly,' another wrote.

A number of users also criticized Kardashian's parenting, suggesting she may be 'pandering completely to North'.

'Dermal piercings at 12 on your hand is wild. I'm all for letting kids express themselves, but not this, not at 12,' one parent added.

According to Trist'n Peterson, co-owner and professional body piercer at Brightside Body Art in Missoula, Montana, dermal piercings are almost never approved for minors, and rarely recommended for adults.

'Most body piercing businesses won't give a surface piercing to anyone under 18,' she told Scary Mommy. 'Surface piercings are not permanent, and your body will eventually reject them, resulting in noticeable scarring.'

North's latest piercing debut quickly circulated online after photos were also shared on Reddit, where users debated whether the tween's parents should have allowed the procedure

Last month, Kardashian came under fire over the summer for letting North wear a corset during an outing in Rome

While Kardashian did not address the backlash at the time, she explained she's 'still learning' as a mother and that North was experimenting with her style to look like her friends

Her shop only pierces limited areas for clients between 13 and 18, such as earlobes, nose, septum or ear cartilage, but never fingers.

'For surface piercings on a finger, most piercers wouldn't even offer this on an adult,' Peterson explained. 'The finger has so much daily movement and potential to snag, causing the piercing to reject pretty quickly.'

It remains unclear where North got her piercings done, or whether Kardashian or her ex-husband Kanye West gave permission for the procedure.

Some fans have speculated that the piercing may have been performed outside the United States, as most US piercing studios would not allow a minor to undergo a dermal implant.

Last month, Kardashian came under fire over the summer for letting North wear a corset during an outing in Rome.

While Kardashian did not address the backlash at the time, she explained she's 'still learning' as a mother and that North was experimenting with her style to look like her friends.

'It's really hard and it's really interesting because all the kids are wearing the same things,' Kardashian said on the Call Her Daddy podcast.

'But then my daughter tries to wear it and then I'm like, "OK we're never wearing that again" Unfortunately, we made that mistake in front of the whole world.

'She's usually a girl that dresses like a tomboy most of the time and she wanted to try something that her friends were wearing and went to the same place that they went to... and it's just like, okay, wait, maybe you can't wear that, you know?'

Kardashian continued: 'So, as a mum, you're kind of learning at the same time. But what I do know is my baby's such a good girl and such a sweet girl.

'The things that she has experienced, where she might have been outspoken or did something, she learns from that.

Kim told Call Her Daddy host Alex Cooper that it makes North 'so happy' to play around with funky hair colors and clothes

North is the eldest of Kardashian's four children with ex-husband Kanye West; Kim and Kanye seen in 2020

'She does listen to me but in other areas I'm like, "Babe if you want blue hair, it is what it is". It makes her so happy. I would never take that creativity away from her.'

When North first debuted her bright blue hair, fans were divided online, with some suggesting the style was too mature for a preteen.

Yet Kardashian revealed her daughter had seen the discourse and had a very sassy response.

Kardashian recalled: 'She's really mature in one sense, where she'll be like, "Mom, I saw this and I don't really care if someone says they don't like my blue hair or my this or that."

'She's really confident and is like, "I probably wouldn't be hanging out with those people. Like if you saw what they look like and what they're wearing!"

Kardashian mused: 'I just think anyone that's raising kids, especially four kids by myself, I'm doing the best that I can and my babies are good babies.

'So, I just urge everyone to not be judgmental and to have grace on single moms trying to figure it all out with a pre-teen. It's a lot.'
Bindi Irwin appeared in full Hollywood mode for her brother Robert's semi-final performance on Dancing With the Stars US on Tuesday.

The 27-year-old looked effortlessly chic in a low-cut, sleeveless black dress, which she paired with stilettos and a matching double-breasted overcoat.

Styling her long hair with a bouncy wave, Bindi sported a glamorous make-up look and accessorised with a fine gold chain pendant necklace and a designer handbag.

Accompanied by her husband Chandler and daughter Grace, Bindi was seen ducking into Robert's trailer for a surprise visit before he hit the dance floor.

Chandler looked smart in a low-key blue suit, which he paired with a white open-neck shirt and brown boots, while Grace looked cute in a frilly lace dress and white cardigan.

An excited Bindi watched on as Robert scored a perfect 10 from the judges alongside dance partner Witney Carson for their sizzling jive routine.

Bindi Irwin appeared in full Hollywood mode for her brother Robert's semi-final performance on Dancing With the Stars US on Tuesday. (Pictured)

The 27-year-old looked effortlessly chic in a low-cut, sleeveless black dress, which she paired with stilettos and a matching double-breasted overcoat. (Pictured with husband Chandler)

The result has catapulted Robert into the DWTS US grand final.

It comes after Bindi and her husband celebrated a huge relationship milestone on Friday.

The mother-of-one posted a very sweet tribute to her love on Instagram as she revealed it was the 12th anniversary of the day they met.

She uploaded two loved-up images of the pair, as Chandler, 29, lifted Bindi into his arms during their celebrations.

'Twelve years ago I met the man of my dreams. Chandler, my heart is yours. Always and forever,' Bindi captioned the post.

The photos saw the celebrity conservationist dressed in a sparkling strapless black gown dotted with glitter.

Sporting a sleek half-up hairstyle, she and Chandler leaned in close to each other as he held her.

The second picture was slightly more blurry, showing the happy couple laughing as Bindi leaned back in Chandler's arms.

Bindi was seen ducking into Robert's trailer for a surprise visit before he hit the dance floor

An excited Bindi watched on as Robert scored a perfect 10 from the judges alongside dance partner Witney Carson for their sizzling jive routine during Prince Night. (Pictured)

'And my heart is yours. I love you so much,' Chandler wrote in the comments.

The matriarch of the family, Terri Irwin, also left a heartfelt message for the pair, writing: 'And they lived happily ever after!'

Bindi and Chandler first met in November 2013 when the former professional wakeboarder visited Australia for a sporting competition.

He took a tour of Australia Zoo with Bindi as his guide, and the lovebirds quickly hit it off and kept in touch.

Bindi tied the knot with the Florida-born wakeboarder in an intimate ceremony at the start of the Covid pandemic on March 25, 2020.

The couple welcomed daughter Grace on March 25, 2021, exactly one year after they exchanged vows at Australia Zoo.

The couple are temporarily living in the US as Bindi's brother Robert competes on Dancing With The Stars.
Tom Felton was cheered on by his onscreen father Jason Isaccs during a performance of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child on Broadway this week.

The actor, 38, has reprised his role as Draco Malfoy, 15 years after wrapping the film franchise and made his emotional debut at New York's Lyric Theatre last week.

Jason, 62, played Draco's father Lucius in the Harry Potter movies and gushed he couldn't be prouder to see his onscreen son return to the role.

White Lotus star Jason shared a series of photos as he shared a hug with Tom on stage and met young actor Aidan Close, who plays Scorpius Malfoy, Draco's son in the stage production.

'I came. I saw. He conquered. You had your own giant boots to fill, son, and you burst them at the seams. Balls like ostrich eggs. So brave. So proud. So glad to be there,' Jason captioned the post.

Tom also shared photos of the heartwarming reunion as he gushed 'No one does it quite like the Malfoys. Three generations meet for the first time on stage  Needless to say , it was magical Love you dad @therealjasonisaacs Love you son @aidanmclose.'

Tom Felton was cheered on by his onscreen father Jason Isaccs during a performance of Harry Potter And The Cursed Child on Broadway this week

Jason played Draco's father Lucius in the Harry Potter movies and gushed he couldn't be prouder to see his onscreen son back as Draco Malfoy

In the comment section, Aidan quipped: 'My grandfather will hear about this... (love you too dad).'

The long-running show is based on an original story by J.K. Rowling, Jack Thorne and John Tiffany, and picks up 19 years after the events of the books and films, following Draco, Harry, Hermione and Ron as they send their own children to Hogwarts.

The original West End production premiered in 2016 and won a record-breaking nine gongs at the 2017 Laurence Olivier Awards. A year later it picked up six Tony Awards for the Broadway production.

Tom has made his Broadway debut in the show and was overcome with emotion during his first curtain call last week.

Despite his decision to reprise the role being criticised by some, when he took to the stage the audience's cheers were so loud that Tom's dialogue could barely be heard.

Tom has remained loyal to both the franchise and its author JK Rowling, while many of his co-stars have worked to distance themselves from the brand.

When asked directly if the controversy around Rowling's views on trans rights affected his decision to star in the play, Tom said recently: 'No, I can't say it does. I'm not really that attuned.'

He continued: 'The only thing I always remind myself is that I've been lucky enough to travel the world.

Jason, 62, played Draco's father Lucius in the Harry Potter movies and gushed he couldn't be prouder to see his onscreen son return to the role (pictured together in the movies)





'I came. I saw. He conquered. You had your own giant boots to fill, son, and you burst them at the seams,' Jason gushed on Instagram

White Lotus star Jason shared a series of photos as he met young actor Aidan Close, who plays Scorpius Malfoy, Draco's son in the stage production

'Here I am in New York. And I have not seen anything bring the world together more than Potter, and she's responsible for that. So I'm incredibly grateful.'

Tom's comments were his latest public show of support towards Rowling.

The actor has continued to promote Harry Potter by attending fan conventions and events and previously explained why in a chat with The Times.

He said: 'I couldnt speak for what others have said or what she said, to be completely honest, but Im often reminded, attending Comic Cons in particular, that no one has single-handedly done more for bringing joy to so many different generations and walks of life.

'Im constantly reminded of her positive work in that field and as a person. Ive only had a handful of meetings with her but she has always been lovely. So Im very grateful for that.'

Tom also shared photos of the heartwarming reunion as he gushed 'No one does it quite like the Malfoys. Three generations meet for the first time on stage'

Tom, who is believed to still be close to his co-stars Daniel Radcliffe, Emma Watson and Rupert Grint, added: 'I dont tend to pick sides.

'I wont talk specifics but I enjoy reminding myself and others that a lot of my good friends have ways of life or personal decisions that I dont necessarily agree with. We should enjoy celebrating each others differences.'

Jason meanwhile has admitted he had different views to the author, but has vowed to not 'jump to stab her in the back' as he praised her charity work for making 'the world a much better place'.

'So for all that she has said some very controversial things, I was not going to be jumping to stab her in the front  or back  without a conversation with her, which I've not managed to have yet,' Jason said previously.
Jack Osbourne and his rarely seen older brother have reflected on the thousands of fans who lined the streets for father Ozzy's funeral - admitting they get 'goosebumps' thinking about it.

The Black Sabbath rocker, who was diagnosed with Parkinson's disease in 2019, passed away at the age of 76 on July 22 surrounded by his family.

He was buried a week later on July 30.

On the latest episode of his podcast Trying Not To Die, Jack, 40, sat down with his older brother Louis to reflect on their father's touching send-off.

Jack asked him: 'Since dad's passed what's been the standout thing for you that you were like "I was not expecting that?"'

Louis, who is Ozzy's eldest son, born during his relationship with Thelma Riley, said: 'The volume of people at the cortege.

On the latest episode of his podcast Trying Not To Die, Jack, 40, sat down with his older brother Louis to reflect on their father's touching send-off

Jack and his brother discussed being blown away by the thousands of fans who turned out for Ozzy's funeral in the summer

'Because it's my hometown where the cortege was, I live in Birmingham and I know the street that was going to be on.'

Recalling the emotional day, he continued: 'As we turned onto the street, or just slightly before we turned onto the street, I just thought it was going to be like two or three people deep for like half a kilometer before where the Black Sabbath bridge was and it would be a throng.

'As we came towards the street and turn onto the street, I'm getting goosebumps thinking about it now, it was f***ing insane.

'Like people climbing up lampposts, hanging out of windows, standing on top of bus stops to get a look of it. It was awe inspiring.

'Once we had all got out of the cars and showed our respects, and put some flowers down and moved on again, it kept on going for another half a mile and then people were following us all around town.

'I knew people loved him, but I didn't have a sense of how many and how much.'

He added that a friend of his likened the incredible turnout to the mourners who lined the streets for the funeral of Princess Diana in 1997.

Ozzy's bereft wife Sharon was snapped being consoled by Jack and his sister Kelly, 41, as she lay a single red rose for her husband during the procession.

Before tying the knot to Sharon, Ozzy married his first wife Thelma Riley in 1971 after meeting her in a Birmingham nightclub (pictured with son Louis in Dublin in 2009)

Ozzy's bereft wife Sharon was snapped being consoled by Jack, Aimee, Kelly and Louis as she lay a single red rose for her husband during the procession

Before tying the knot to Sharon, Ozzy married his first wife Thelma Riley in 1971 after meeting her in a Birmingham nightclub.

Together, they welcomed children Jessica and Louis.

Ozzy also adopted Thelma's five-year-old son Elliot from a previous relationship.

Louis now works as a DJ and married actress Louise Lennon in 2004.

This week, I'm A Celebrity fans have watched Jack recounted the 'shock' news of his dad's passing as told his fellow campmates it 'still feels fresh'.

The emotional moment began with Emmerdale star Lisa Riley asking about Ozzy while she and Jack sat around the campfire.

In response, Jack admitted of his father's passing: 'It was definitely a shock.

'I mean we knew he was sick for a while but it was definitely a shock, I mean we didnt know it would be that quick..'

Earlier this week I'm A Celebrity fans watched as Jack broke down in tears in camp as he discussed his father's death

The emotional moment began with Emmerdale star Lisa Riley asking about Ozzy while she and Jack sat around the campfire

'It was the ultimate mic drop, he did a massive big gig and was like, alright Im done.'

At this point, Jack then became visibly teary with Lisa offering her support to him.

He then addressed what Ozzy would think of him signing up to I'm A Celebrity.

Jack shared: 'Hed be so supportive of this.'

Later on in The Bush Telegraph, the celebrity campmate revealed: 'Im still navigating it all, its been three nearly four months and so its still pretty fresh.'
Jasmine Harman has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her late A Place In The Sun co-star Jonnie Irwin on what would have been his 52nd birthday.

The pair, who worked on the beloved Channel 4 property show together since its launch in 2004, were also close friends off screen.

Jonnie died in February 2024 after a battle with lung cancer.

Marking his birthday on social media on Tuesday, emotional Jasmine, 50, shared a throwback picture of them both on a night out boasting big smiles.

She penned: 'Happy heavenly birthday dearest Jonnie.

'We miss you so much, but especially this weekend when I was celebrating my 50th. You were there at my 30th birthday, and my 40th - always the life and soul of the party.

Jasmine Harman has paid a heartbreaking tribute to her late A Place In The Sun co-star Jonnie Irwin on what would have been his 52nd birthday

Jonnie died in February 2024 after a battle with lung cancer, having been diagnosed in 2021 (pictured hosting A Place In The Sun)

Marking his birthday on social media on Tuesday, emotional Jasmine, 50, shared a throwback picture of them both on a night out boasting big smiles

'I never thought the day would come when I would catch up with you in age. The last time we saw each other was your 50th birthday!'

Jasmine added: 'This pic was taken 20 years ago! I will always treasure the memories of the fun times we had.

'Sending so much love to your lovely family.'

Her post comes after she revealed her husband was rushed to hospital suffering a heart attack while falling ill during filming for their property show in Spain.

Jonnie was forced to step away from presenting A Place In The Sun in 2021 following his diagnosis.

He left behind his bereft wife Jessica Holmes and their young sons Rex, five, and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac following his death.

Last year Jessica tearfully shared her last moments with Jonnie as she reflected on their loving marriage.

Speaking to HELLO magazine, she emotionally said: 'He told me, "I'm so happy I met you," and that he knew the boys would have the most joy and fun a person could bring.

Jonnie was forced to step away from presenting A Place In The Sun in 2021 following his diagnosis as he continued to receive treatment

He left behind his bereft wife Jessica Holme and their young sons Rex, five, and three-year-old twins Rafa and Cormac (pictured) following his death

Last year Jessica tearfully shared her last moments with Jonnie as she reflected on their loving marriage after it was revealed he left nearly 1million to his family in his will

'We had so much fun, Jonnie and me, we were never boring, we weren't best friends, we were lovers; there was passion.'

Jessica cared for Jonnie at their home in the last few days of his life and was supported by nurses.

She said his death was 'cruel by how quick it was' as he returned home from hospital and didn't leave his bed before passing away days later.

Jess admitted she was in denial that this was the end because she was expecting him to have an 'neurological decline' because days earlier he was 'playfully giving her grief' about something.

She revealed their oldest son Rex went to Jonnie's room to see him before he passed and Jess explained how she believes their little boy 'knew something wasn't right because he kissed Jonnie's hand'.

Documents released following his death showed how the TV star left nearly 1 million in his will for Jessica and their three sons.

His entire 953,000 estate was left for Jessica.

When Jonnie was fit and healthy he enjoyed several walking holidays with his group of 'brothers' and Jess revealed she gave friends some of his ashes to 'sprinkle on top of a mountain' in the Lake District.

She said: 'On their last trip they rented e-bikes to make it easier for Jonnie and went to the Lake District. Two weeks ago, the others went back and I said to them, "Do you want to take a bit of him with you?" so they sprinkled some of his ashes on the top of a mountain'.
Kate Winslet has revealed that she nearly flashed King Charles III when they first met 30 years ago at the Sense and Sensibility premiere.

The British actress, 50, was just 20-years-old in the 1995 romantic comedy and admitted she completely panicked at the royal premiere as she met Prince Charles (now King Charles III).

Kate explained how she was so excited to meet His Majesty before realising she was wearing a see-through black lace outfit and her 'nipples were out'.

Speaking to Jimmy Kimmel on his talk show, she said: 'The first time I met the King, oh my goodness, he had come to support the royal premiere of Sense and Sensibility when I was only 20.

'And I didn't realise that we were actually really going to meet him.

'So I forgot I was wearing a transparent lace outfit and thank god I was wearing a coat as he was walking towards me I was like, nipples, nipples, nipples, omg!

Kate Winslet has revealed that she nearly flashed King Charles III when they first met 30 years ago at the Sense and Sensibility premiere

The British actress, 50, was just 20-years-old in the 1995 romantic comedy and admitted she completely panicked at the royal premiere as she met Prince Charles (now King Charles III); pictured at the premiere in 1995

'Someone quickly went, "coat" and I just went [wraps her coat around herself] and went, "Your Majesty".

'I was basically covering myself in a cape and trying to hide my nipples.'

Kate also revealed how she and Meryl Streep, 76, panicked when meeting the King earlier this year alongside David Beckham.

The Titanic actress was invited with Mamma Mia legend Meryl to St James's Palace after being made an ambassador for The King's Foundation.

She said: 'There was a conversation about this, Meryl and I as we were walking to meet the King and she said, "Do you think we have to curtsy" and I was like, "Obviously we have to curtsy".

'She was like, "Is it a big curtsy, a small one" and I was like, "I don't know", and we didn't know what the form was but obviously we had to curtsy.

'Did I go first, I think I did. I volunteered to go first, leadership is important and I went first and I don't mind getting it wrong, someone has to and I don't mind taking the hit.

'Meryl was nervous, he is a very gentle, personable individual though and he is the King'.

Kate explained how she was so excited to meet His Majesty before realising she was wearing a see-through lace outfit and her 'nipples were out'

Speaking to Jimmy Kimmel on his talk show, she said: 'The first time I met the King, oh my goodness, I didn't realise that we were actually really going to meet him'

She explained: 'So I forgot I was wearing a transparent lace outfit and thank god I was wearing a coat as he was walking towards me I was like, nipples, nipples, nipples, omg!'

The appearance comes after it was revealed Kate was taking the lead behind the camera for the first time for Goodbye June.

The actress was seen filming her directorial debut on the streets of London alongside an all-star cast including Andrea Riseborough, Toni Collette and Timothy Spall.

The Netflix project is described as a contemporary family drama about fractured siblings who must come together under sudden and trying circumstances.

And it is certainly a family affair for the actress as her 21-year-old son, Joe Anders, whose father is Bond director Sam Mendes, wrote the screenplay.

But Kate  who won plaudits for her role as Lee Miller, the model who became a Second World War photographer, in the 2023 biopic Lee  showed she is not ready to turn her back on acting any time soon, also starring in the production.

Speaking of taking on the director role, Kate told Jimmy: 'I was going to produce it and play the character Julia and we were ready to find a director and I suddenly couldn't let it go, I said to him [her son Joe] I would love to direct it.

'When you give it to a director it becomes theirs but I didn't want that for him I wanted him to see it.'

Discussing working with her son, who wrote the screen play at the age of 19 while attending the National Film and Television School, Kate insisted they 'didn't fight' on set.

She said: 'We were learning different things about one another in the working capacity. We didn't fight and I had to learn how to say things sensitives and he did as well. And I did it, I made my first feature'.

The mother-of-three previously told Elizabeth Days podcast, How To Fail, that people in the industry had encouraged her to direct, saying that it could change the culture of male-dominated Hollywood.

So many people will say to me on film sets, Why arent you directing? and Ill go no, no, no, please dont say it. Stop saying it. Why does everyone keep saying it?, Kate said.

Kate also revealed how she and Meryl Streep, 76, panicked when meeting the King earlier this year alongside David Beckham (L)

She said: 'Meryl and I, we were walking to meet the King she said, "Do you think we have to curtsy" and I was like, "Obviously". She asked, "Is it a big curtsy" and I was like "I don't know"'

She added: 'And we didn't know what the form was but obviously we had to curtsy. I volunteered to go first, I don't mind getting it wrong, someone has to'

I know why I havent done it: because its a very long time, and its a huge commitment, and I have always had a family. I had Mia when I was 25 years old, and so theres just no way I would have ever been able to do it.

'But the more Im not doing it now, with the need to change the culture, the more I feel like Im actually letting down other women by not doing it. Im really starting to feel that.

Her children have followed her into the industry.

Joe starred alongside his mother in Lee, having also appeared in the Oscar-nominated war film 1917, which was directed by his father.

Meanwhile, her daughter Mia Threapleton, 24  whose father is Kates first husband, actor Jim Threapleton  is also making a name for herself as an actress, having won acclaim for her role alongside her mother in the Bafta award-winning domestic drama I Am Ruth.

Kate also has a younger son, 11-year-old Bear, with her third husband Edward Abel Smith, the nephew of Sir Richard Branson.

Goodbye June, which is described as a touching, humorous drama, also stars Dame Helen Mirren.

It's set to hit theatres on December 12 before it begins streaming on Netflix on December 24.
Tyra Banks shocked viewers on Wednesday night when she revealed the very surprising Australian band she is a fan of, while presenting at the ARIA Awards.

The US supermodel, 51, appeared at the Hordern Pavilion to present the Best Pop Release category, when she unexpectedly revealed she is a huge fan of an iconic children's band.

'I've been here around all of you guys, and you're making me feel so good and welcome,' Tyra told the crowd.

She added: 'I met the Wiggles and I'm so excited!'

The California-born model revealed she had been living in Sydney for several years, where she had opened her own ice cream store called SMiZE & DREAM.

'I was in a really bad mood because I had some ice cream that melted,' she quipped, ahead of presenting the award to Thelma Plum, for her song I'm Sorry, Now Say It Back.

Tyra Banks shocked viewers on Wednesday night when she revealed the very surprising Australian band she is a fan of, while presenting at the ARIA Awards

The US supermodel appeared at the Hordern Pavilion to present the Best Pop Release category, when she unexpectedly revealed she is a huge fan of an iconic children's band

'I've been here around all of you guys, and youre making me feel so good and welcome,' Tyra told the crowd. She added: 'I met the Wiggles and I'm so excited'. Pictured: The Wiggles at the ARIA Awards on Wednesday

The California-born model added she had been living in Sydney for several years, where she opened her own ice cream store

Tyra stunned at the ceremony in a stylish plunging black jumpsuit that channelled Olivia Newton-John in the iconic 1978 musical Grease.

She paired the outfit with an eye-popping selection of chunky diamond jewellery worn as bracelets and rings, ensuring all eyes were on her during the exclusive event.

Tyra has been living the Aussie life for the last 18 months, with most fans not knowing she's been working undercover as a start-up boss Down Under.

The American supermodel has been jumping between Los Angeles and Sydney for almost two years, as she worked at launching her ice cream store chain.

Earlier this year, the former America's Next Top Model host revealed just how she's managed to blend in with the locals, reported The Daily Telegraph.

She told the publication she and her family enjoy spending their days just hanging out at their local shopping centre and partaking in everyday Aussie activities.

'We'll get some breakfast in the mall, then we'll go to a Hoyts cinema,' she said.

'We will get some ice cream at the cinema, see a movie, then we might get a foot massage. Then we'll have some lunch... Then we go to Target or Kmart.'

Tyra stunned at the ceremony in a stylish plunging black jumpsuit that channelled Olivia Newton-John in the iconic 1978 musical Grease

She paired the outfit with an eye-popping selection of chunky diamond jewellery worn as bracelets and rings, ensuring all eyes were on her during the exclusive event

Tyra has been living the Aussie life for the last 18 months, with most fans not knowing she's been working undercover as a start-up boss Down Under

The American supermodel has been jumping between Los Angeles and Sydney for almost two years as she launches her ice cream store chain

Tyra went on to say she loves the Australian Kmart.

Despite walking the runway for luxury fashion houses like Saint Laurent, Chanel and Dior, the supermodel said she thinks the Kmart Down Under is 'fancy'.

She added that after a bit of shopping, she and her family will go and do the groceries.

'We'll do Coles, Woolies, Harris Farm, whatever, and so that is a whole day at the mall and we don't do that in America,' she said.

Tyra explained that the 'mall' culture in America is a dying pastime because it's just about shopping for what you 'want' instead of what you 'need'.
Victoria Beckham left fans in awe on Wednesday as she sang a Spice Girls song with her youngest son Cruz in a rare performance.

Posh Spice, 51, has shown she's still got it as she went makeup-free showing off her impressive vocals in the social media clip.

She performed an acoustic duet of Viva Forever with 20-year-old Cruz, who sat opposite her and played the guitar.

The video, posted to Cruz's official Instagram page, shows Victoria dressed casually as she sat on the sofa in her London mansion.

Fans have been left in awe over the sweet and wholesome mother and son moment as they eagerly called for the pair to release the track together.

Flooding the comments section, They wrote: 'This is so beautiful. Acoustic Christmas No.1 right there;

Victoria Beckham left fans in awe on Wednesday as she sang a Spice Girls song with her youngest son Cruz in a rare performance

Victoria performed an acoustic duet of Viva Forever with 20-year-old Cruz, who sat opposite her and played the guitar

Victoria hasn't sung with the Spice Girls since 2012 when the group performed at the Summer Olympic Games

'You guys need to get a band together!; This is so beautiful... agree with another post that it would be a perfect Christmas number 1;

'All the spice girls and all the kids a Christmas charity song !!!! your welcome!! X(sic); The duo we didn't know we needed'.

Victoria hasn't sung with the Spice Girls since 2012 when the group performed at the Summer Olympic Games.

She skipped their reunion tour in 2019, though the Daily Mail previously revealed how she still enjoys royalties from their chart-topping records.

Last month Victoria was supported by her bandmates Geri Halliwell-Horner, Melanie C and Emma Bunton as her Netflix documentary was released.

Emma was joined by her son Beau, 18, while Mel C made a rare appearance with her boyfriend Chris Dingwall and Geri took to the red carpet with her husband Christian Horner and stepdaughter Olivia.

While Melanie B was noticeably absent, she had sent good luck flowers to Victoria ahead of her premiere.

The three-part series Victoria Beckham followed her journey from a Spice Girl, to a WAG and a fashion designer.

Posh Spice, 51, showed she's still got it in the social media clip as she went makeup-free whilst showing off her impressive vocals

Fans have been left in awe over the sweet and wholesome mother and son moment as they eagerly called for the pair to release the track together

Taking to Instagram on Wednesday, Victoria tagged Mel B and Geri as she shared snaps of extravagant floral displays they had sent her and penned: 'Kisses'.

Meanwhile all five bandmates, including Mel C and Emma Bunton, attended Victoria's 50th birthday last year as they celebrated the milestone birthday together.

During the lavish festivities, all five of the Spice Girls came together to sing one of their hit tracks, Stop, for the star-studded guests - which was all caught on camera by David Beckham.

It comes after Victoria sent Spice Girls fans into a tizz as she admitted she was 'tempted' by a reunion on the final night of Oasis's reunion tour.

Among a slew of snaps on her Instagram from the Wembley gig, Victoria shared a video panning around the sold-out venue with 'Tempting....' written over the top alongside tags of her bandmates' Instagram handles.

Fans soon flooded X with excitement, with users penning: 'Fans took to Twitter to pen: 'Victoria Beckham teasing something about the Spice Girls. Hmmmm...

'DID VICTORIA BECKHAM JUST HIT A SPICE GIRLS TOUR ?!? ON HER IG STORY ?!? OMGGG... victoria beckham posting about how tempting watching oasis perform is and tagging all the girls you guys, we have never been this back i am on the floor.'

Victoria dropped the biggest hint yet she would return to the girl group as it approaches its 30th anniversary.

It comes after Victoria sent Spice Girls fans into a tizz as she admitted she was 'tempted' by a reunion on the final night of Oasis' reunion tour

Last month Victoria was supported by her bandmates Geri Halliwell-Horner, Melanie C (R) and Emma Bunton (L) as her Netflix documentary was released

Geri took to the red carpet with her husband Christian Horner and stepdaughter Olivia, while Melanie B was noticeably absent, she had sent good luck flowers to Victoria ahead of time

Appearing on US radio station SiriusXM last month, Victoria admitted she is 'tempted' by the idea of the group performing together again.

She said: 'It would be tempting.

'But could I take on a world tour? No I can't. I have a job

'How good would the Spice Girls be at the Sphere! I love the idea of it. I mean I don't know if I could even still sing, I mean I was never that great!'

The iconic concert hall, which has previously hosted residencies from U2, The Eagles, and the Backstreet Boys, will welcome No Doubt for 12 reunion shows next May.

The band hasn't performed in the US since their 2008 reunion tour.

It comes after Cruz recently revealed he had recorded an album before releasing his debut singles Optics and Lick The Toad.

Taking to Instagram, Cruz shared a video of himself performing at a gig where his girlfriend Jackie Apostel, could be seen watching him off stage.

It comes after Cruz recently revealed he had recorded an album before releasing his debut singles Optics and Lick The Toad

The songwriter became emotional as she wiped her eyes while proudly filming her boyfriend's performance.

After the gig, Cruz said: 'That was a fun one, thanks for coming. There's going to be more soon, more music and more gigs.'

He captioned the video: 'That was a fun one,' while Jackie commented: '*Sobs*'.

The youngest Beckham son and Jackie first started dating in June 2024, with the pair confirming their romance in October when they went Instagram official.
The Global Governance Initiative demonstrates China's major country responsibility

09:55, November 19, 2025 By Zheng Yin ( People's Daily Online

On the morning of September 1, 2025, Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech titled "Pooling the Strength of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization to Improve Global Governance" at the "Shanghai Cooperation Organization Plus" Meeting, in which he proposed the Global Governance Initiative (GGI), stressing the need to work for a more just and equitable global governance system and advance toward a community with a shared future for humanity.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War and the founding of the United Nations. Over the past eight decades, the international landscape has undergone profound changes, yet deficits in peace, development, security, and governance have become increasingly prominent, placing global governance under new strain.

Although the concept of "global governance" has gained wider acceptance since the end of the Cold War, it has long been equated with "Western governance" or "elite governance" rather than collective efforts on governance.

Meanwhile, some Western countries continue to practice unilateralism, bullying and the law of the jungle. While undermining the role of the United Nations and multilateralism and expanding deficits in global governance, these practices also highlight the urgency to reform and improve the global governance system.

President Xi emphasized that no country can seek absolute security on its own, and no country can reap stability from the turmoil of others. The interests of all countries are now closely intertwined. The GGI embodies the vision of global governance featuring extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefits, signaling China's readiness to integrate its own development into global development while demonstrating its role as a responsible major country.

As a permanent member of the U.N. Security Council and the world's largest developing country, China proposed the GGI with a focus on the pressing question of "what kind of global governance system should be built and how to reform and improve it." The GGI upholds the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter and seeks to build a global governance system that is more just and equitable. It reflects the commitment of the Communist Party of China to the well-being of all humanity, rejects dividing the world into opposing blocs, and essentially discards outdated notions such as Western-centrism.

The core principles of the GGI consist of five dimensions: adhering to sovereign equality, abiding by international rule of law, practicing multilateralism, advocating the people-centered approach, and focusing on taking real actions. These principles outline the fundamental guidelines, methods, and pathways for reforming and improving the global governance system.

Over the past years, China has made substantial contributions to global governance. It is steadily advancing carbon peaking and carbon neutrality, vigorously developing renewable energy, and promoting global green transition. Recently, China announced that it will not seek new special and differential treatment in current and future negotiations at the World Trade Organization. This demonstrates China's responsibility as the world's largest trading nation in goods and a major developing country, and its firm commitment to upholding the multilateral trading system.

The GGI is part of the latest development of Xi Jinping Thought on Diplomacy, following the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. These initiatives are each a source of positive energy for a changing and turbulent world and impetus for humanity's development and progress. Together, they demonstrate China's sense of responsibility and commitment to fostering a better future for humanity.

The author is an international affairs observer.

(Web editor: Hongyu, Wu Chengliang)
Sophie Habboo has dropped a huge hint that she is in labour.

The Made In Chelsea star, 31, and her husband Jamie Laing, 36, are expecting their first child and whilst they previously revealed their due date was December, Sophie has sparked rumours she may currently be in labour after a mysterious work absence.

Sophie was missing from this week's recording of her podcast Wednesdays, reposting a photo on Tuesday from Toby Watkin's Instagram story, showing her co-host Melissa Tattam sitting alone by a mic.

Over the top of the snap Toby  Melissa's boyfriend  wrote: 'I'm no Sophie Habboo but I'll give it my best go,' indicating that he's taking Sophie's place on the show.

Representatives for Sophie have been contacted by the Daily Mail for comment.

Last week Jamie revealed the couple's baby was due in December.

Sophie Habboo has dropped a huge hint that she is delivering her baby after a mysterious work absence

The Made In Chelsea star, 31, and her husband Jamie Laing, 36, are expecting their first child and they previously revealed their due date was December (pictured on November 12)

Chatting on Wednesday's episode of Good Morning Britain, Jamie was asked by anchor Charlotte Hawkins: 'The baby's due in December, how are you feeling about it's imminent arrival?'

Jamie didn't correct her on the due date, replying that he was 'so excited'.

Sophie has also confirmed the December due date after recently commissioning a bespoke necklace from Incador jewellers.

The jewellers shared a post of the stunning necklace on Instagram, revealing that Sophie wanted her baby's December birthstone included in the design.

Earlier this month the TV star celebrated her baby shower, throwing a lavish lunch at the swanky Rosewood London.

She looked gorgeous in the white knitted dress as she posed for snaps as her pals took to Instagram to share clips of the beautiful table settings and decorations.

Sophie announced to fans that she was expecting her first child with her husband, Jamie, back in June.

The sweet clip showed them having an ultrasound as Sophie looked delighted staring at the screen.

Sophie was missing from this week's recording of her podcast Wednesdays, reposting a photo from Toby Watkin's Instagram story, showing her co-host Melissa Tattam sitting alone by a mic

Earlier this month Sophie celebrated her baby shower, throwing a lavish lunch at the swanky Rosewood London

The post was simply captioned with a heart emoji and was soon flooded with well wishes from their followers.

The loved-up couple tied the knot in a lavish Spanish wedding in 2023.

Details of her pregnancy and birth will no doubt be documented in their upcoming Disney show following their life as new parents.
Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin's model daughter Amelia Hamlin has a new love in her life.

And the 24-year-old is going public with her new boyfriend as they were seen cuddling on Tuesday evening at the FRAME & Amelia Gray Celebrate Collaboration at Chateau Marmont in West Hollywood.

Hamlin is dating Nicolai Marciano, who is the heir to the Guess? Inc fashion empire as his father is Paul Marciano, 73, the co-founder of the glitzy brand.

The 30-year-old wore a beige blazer over a rust-colored sweater as he was seen next to his new lady love at the event.

And Marciano has already clearly met the family as Hamlin's sister Delilah and her mother Lisa were also in attendance at the intimate affair.

This comes after they were spied together at the GQ event on Sunday.

Lisa Rinna and Harry Hamlin 's model daughter Amelia Hamlin has a new love in her life

The cover girl looked stunning at the event as she flaunted her toned tummy in a white tank top and low-waisted plaid miniskirt with a black belt as she added knee-high boots

Marciano is the Chief New Business Development Officer for Guess? Inc and has also worked in brand partnerships and specialty marketing for the massive company.

He is also 'juggling multiple tasks from oversight of the build-out of wholesale accounts to opening brand-dedicated concept stores to ensuring the brand line incorporates vintage Guess elements from the 1980s,' according to Sourcing Journal.

The executive told the site: 'Sustainability and performance will play a large part in the dialogue.'

Guess? Inc was founded in 1981 by brothers Paul, Maurice, and Armand Marciano. The company was established after the Marciano brothers left France to pursue the 'American dream' in the US.

The brand has been known for using celebrities such as Anna Nicole Smith, Claudia Schiffer, Jennifer Lopez and, more recently, Sydney Sweeney in their ads.

Hamlin split from Scott Disick in early September 2021 after nearly 11 months of dating.

The breakup followed drama surrounding DMs that Disick allegedly sent about his ex, Kourtney Kardashian. Disick and Kardashian have three children together: Mason, Penelope and Reign.

Marciano has already clearly met the family as Amelia's sister Delilah and her mother Lisa were also in attendance at the intimate affair

This comes after they were spied together at the 2025 GQ Men Of The Year event on Sunday; it was also held at Chateau Marmont

Hamlin split from Scott Disick in early September 2021 after nearly 11 months of dating. The breakup followed drama surrounding DMs that Disick allegedly sent about his ex, Kourtney Kardashian

The reality TV star and model 'needed a break from one another, that was clear,' according to an insider with E! News. 'They are in different places and trying to figure out if it's time to move on and if they are really done.'

The cover girl looked stunning at the event as she flaunted her toned tummy in a white tank top and low-waisted plaid miniskirt with a black belt as she added knee-high boots.

The Vogue regular also had a fuzzy beige fur coat dancing from her shoulders.

Mom Rinna, who was on Real Housewives Of Beverly Hills, had on the same fur coat as she added a black top, slacks and boots.

Delilah was also in black as she pulled her blonde hair up and has a fresh Malibu tan with large gold earrings.
To the world, he is hunky Jeremy Allen White.

But the star, 34, has now revealed he doesn't actually go by his famous stage name in a new interview with Vanity Fair.

White said he only added his middle name to his stage name due to an existing 'Jeremy White' who was once registered with the SAG-AFTRA union.

'Thats not how I understand myself,' he told the publication from his Los Angeles home in a Zoom interview. 'It does feel like people are talking about someone I dont know.'

The revelation hasn't deterred die-hard Shameless fans, with many joking 'he'll always be Lip to me' in response to the news.

'He will never not be Lip,' another posted.

Jeremy Allen White has revealed what he goes by off screen in a new interview with Vanity Fair

White portrayed Lip Gallagher on the hit HBO series from 2011 to 2021 before joining the cast of Hulu's The Bear - a role which took him to a whole new level of fame.

He's now starring as another iconic name in the new biopic, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere.

The film chronicles the life of the legendary rock star Bruce Springsteen as he struggles to reconcile the pressures of success with the ghosts of his past while recording his album 'Nebraska' in the early 1980s.

But White has confessed that he struggled with playing the version of The Boss that was isolated and depressed, with those feelings leaking over into his own psyche.

White admitted he was pleased that shooting was over, after finding it 'incredibly difficult' to film and be away from his daughters - Ezer, seven, and Dolores, four.

He candidly said: 'I feel like Im pain for hire. Like Im getting paid to put myself in painful places.

'On The Bear, its not like I walk around punching walls and screaming in my closet. But I stay close to that energy, and its uncomfortable  and filming the Bruce movie was incredibly difficult.

'I was in isolation. I was far from my children. I didnt travel home much. It made me unwell, and when I came out of it, I thought, "There has to be a better way".'

Recently Springsteen detailed his guilt over watching White star as him on set.

Speaking on The Graham Norton Show, Springsteen admitted that he had a lot of involvement in the filming of the movie and often showed up on set, leaving White feeling a little on edge at first.

The revelation hasn't deterred die-hard Shameless fans, with many joking 'he'll always be Lip to me' in response to the news

But the star, 34, dropped a bombshell about his name in a new interview with Vanity Fair

White's star really rose after his lead role in Hulu's The Bear

He's now starring as another iconic name in the new biopic, Springsteen: Deliver Me From Nowhere

He told host Norton: 'I was on set a lot. I felt really guilty about that because not only did Jeremy have to play me, but he had to play me while I am sitting right there watching him.

'He was incredibly tolerant and generous of me, for which I am grateful. I had a great time.'

White then confessed: 'In the beginning, I didnt know what to expect and I was a bit nervous.

'Youre trying to drum up some delusion and imagination, and seeing the man you are playing in the corner was hard.

'But then he came so often it became normal,' before jokingly adding: 'I think if he had given me notes it might have broken me.'

Springsteen interjected: 'He prepared in private, so I stayed away. On set, I rarely said anything, I just enjoyed myself.'
Her father is a former child actor turned a major sitcom star who made fans laugh for many years in a hilarious ensemble cast.

He has also appeared in several movies with big-name actors like Ben Affleck and Charlize Theron, and was also in a Matrix movie with Keanu Reeves.

These days the 52-year-old still works a ton - this performer is multi talented as he can do theater, TV, movies and hosting as well as singing - but is also a happily married dad living in New York City.

On Tuesday evening one of his two children was seen at a splashy event with his husband of 11 years.

This blonde looks like she could be related to Hollywood favorite Reese Witherspoon, but she is not, though her father has worked with the A-lister.

Who is this teenager?

Her father is a former child actor turned a major sitcom star who made fans laugh for many years in a hilarious ensemble cast. Who is she?

She is Harper Grace Burtka-Harris, 15.

Her fathers are Neil Patrick Harris and his husband David Burtka. Harper also has a twin brother named Gideon Scott.

Harris was on the successful sitcom How I Met Your Mother from 2005 until 2014. He starred in Gone Girl with Affleck and A Million Ways To Die In The West with Theron. Harris played The Analyst, the main antagonist, in The Matrix Resurrections opposite Reeves.

The children were born via surrogate on October 12, 2010.

The twins tend to keep a much lower profile than their famous parents, Harris and Burtka, but once in a while they hit the red carpet.

On Tuesday evening Burtka took his teen daughter to the Wicked: For Good! premiere held at the David Geffen Hall in New York City.

She wore a mint green sequined dress with a black coat and her blonde hair down as dad modeled a gunmetal gray sequined blazer over a crisp white shirt.

In August 2010, the actor revealed the news of his twins' impending arrival at the time via Twitter, now known as X.

'So, get this: David and I are expecting twins this fall. We're super excited/nervous/thrilled,' he had written on Twitter.

She is Harper Grace Burtka-Harris, 15. Seen with dad David Burtka on Tuesday evening at the Wicked: For Good! premiere in NYC

Dad Neil Patrick Harris with his husband Burtka on November 9 in NYC

Twins Harper Grace and Gideon Scott with their parents in September

Two months later, Neil announced the birth of their children.

'All of us are happy, healthy, tired and a little pukey. Harper has been fussy but Gideon is the easiest baby in the world. They're just now starting to recognize us and smile.'

Neil and David met in passing on the street, and went on their first date in April 2004.

The lovebirds announced their engagement in June 2011 after the Marriage Equality Act was passed in 2011 legalizing same same-sex marriage in New York City, revealing that they have been engaged since 2007.

David proposed to Neil at the street corner they had met in 2007, with Neil proposing to him as well in 2008 on Valentine's Day.

They tied the knot in Italy on September 6, 2014.

In April 2024, Neil and David celebrated their 20th anniversary of their first date.
Zac Efron sent social media into a frenzy while sitting in the Dancing With the Stars audience and viewers couldn't stop talking about how good his face looked.

On Tuesday night, the actor, 38, arrived to support his younger brother, Dylan, 33, who found himself at the bottom of the leaderboard with a total of 55 points for both of his dances.

Despite the low score, he still clinched a coveted spot in next week's finale thanks to a surge of fan votes.

In a shocking twist, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star Whitney Leavitt, 32, was eliminated even after earning near-perfect scores - leaving only Dylan, Jordan Chiles, Robert Irwin, Alix Earle and Elaine Hendrix still in the running for the Len Goodman Mirrorball Trophy.

But the ballroom drama quickly took a backseat, because the internet had laser focus on Zac sitting in the audience.

The moment the cameras panned to the actor, Reddit and X lit up with commentary - with fans feverishly insisting he looked better, more natural and more like himself than he has in years.

Zac Efron sent social media into a frenzy while sitting in the Dancing With the Stars audience and viewers couldn't stop talking about how good his face looked

Efron sparked widespread surgery rumors after he showed off a new look in 2021

'Oh wow, Zac Efron is back,' one fan announced, stunned by how much more like his old self he looked.

Another user remarked, 'His jaw is looking proportional again,' praising the return of his familiar facial structure.

A third viewer said, 'I don't know what he did, but his face doesn't look as botoxy tonight - he looks great.'

A fourth fan agreed, writing, 'He looks so much better than he has in a long time.'

Someone else added, 'He looks so good now - he actually looks like Zac again.'

A commenter shared, 'Zac Efron is so much hotter when people aren't constantly barking about his jaw surgery.'

One fan gushed, 'Zac Efron is so unbelievably hot tonight on Dancing With the Stars. I can't stop looking at him.'

Another wrote, 'Zac Efron looks insanely hot again. The world is healing.'

On Tuesday night, the actor, 38, arrived to support his younger brother, Dylan, 33, who found himself at the bottom of the leaderboard with a total of 55 points for both of his dances

The renewed appreciation for his appearance comes over a decade after Zac suffered a horrific jaw injury (pictured with his younger sister)

'Zac Efron, welcome back, sir - goddamn,' one person declared.

Another protective fan joked, 'Everyone is thirsting over Zac Efron again? I think not - I never forgot how you all turned on my man. Stand back.'

The Daily Mail has reached out to Zac's representatives for comment.

The renewed appreciation for his appearance comes over a decade after Zac suffered a horrific jaw injury.

In November 2013, he slipped on a pair of socks, fell, and smashed his chin into a granite fountain - an accident that resulted in him 'shattering' his jaw.

Efron later told Men's Health in 2022 that he lost consciousness during the fall and woke up with 'his chin bone hanging off his face.'

The trauma caused his masseter muscles, which sit along the inside of the jaw, to overcompensate, growing significantly in size and altering the shape of his face.

'The masseters just grew. They just got really, really big,' he explained.

In November 2013, he slipped on a pair of socks, fell, and smashed his chin into a granite fountain - an accident that resulted in him 'shattering' his jaw; seen last year

The trauma caused his masseter muscles, which sit along the inside of the jaw, to overcompensate, growing significantly in size and altering the shape of his face

The unintentional transformation fueled years of plastic surgery rumors, especially after his more angular jawline went viral in an April 2021 Earth Day video.

Zac revealed he didn't even know he'd become a trending topic until his mother phoned to ask if he'd secretly undergone cosmetic work.

'If I valued what other people thought of me to the extent that they may think I do,' he told the magazine, 'I definitely wouldn't be able to do this work.'

Radio host Kyle Sandilands, a longtime friend, defended him at the time, saying Zac would never have plastic surgery - comparing his natural looks to a priceless painting.

'It would be like getting a Picasso and having a kid finger-paint over it. Why bother?' he said.
Adam Peaty has broken his silence amid the toxic family rift that has overshadowed his upcoming wedding to fiancee Holly Ramsay.

The Olympic swimmer took to Instagram on Wednesday as he insisted there are 'two sides to every story' and that he and Holly 'will get through' the 'challenging times'.

He penned: 'For those who know me personally, you know that I work so hard on trying to improve myself as a person who wants to contribute to making the world a better place.

'I am continuing to learn about myself and how I can be the man I want to be; a worthy partner, father, businessman, friend and athlete; even through these challenging times.

'Bethany [his sister], Holly and I will get through this - we do not ask for sympathy. We just need people to be aware that there are always two sides to every story.

'To those of you who have reached out and shown kindness and understanding - thank you. It is deeply appreciated.'

Adam Peaty has insisted there are 'two sides to every story' amid 'challenging times' as he broke his silence over the toxic family rift that has overshadowed his wedding to Holly Ramsay

Last week it was revealed Holly and Adam have banned his mother from their wedding after an astonishing family row over Holly's failure to invite her future mother-in-law to her hen party (pictured with his mother Caroline and Holly in 2024)

He penned: 'Bethany, Holly and I will get through this - we do not ask for sympathy. We just need people to be aware that there are always two sides to every story'

He also explained that he, Holly and Bethany cannot go into detail due to 'an ongoing police investigation into serious matters that arose long before recent events'.

Last week it was revealed Holly and Adam have banned his mother from their wedding after an astonishing family row over Holly's failure to invite her future mother-in-law to her hen party.

The influencer daughter of fiery chef Gordon Ramsay welcomed her own mother Tana, family friend Victoria Beckham and Adam's sister to her pre-nuptial celebrations at the celebrity hotspot Soho Farmhouse.

A source close to Adam's working-class family claimed the apparent snub happened after the swimmer, who was once close to his mother, had distanced himself from her after being seduced by the fame and glamour of the Ramsays.

When the row came to light, Adam's aunt Louise blasted her nephew and his fiancee Holly in a series of Instagram comments, where she also detailed the reason why her sister was not invited to the bride's hen party.

Over the weekend, Caroline also broke her silence on the rift in an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, breaking down in tears as she claimed Holly's family are 'pulling him away from her'. You can read the full interview here.

In a post on Instagram, Caroline shared the quote: 'The moment you realise: The little sister who once drove you crazy is now the one who keeps you sane - your loudest supporter and forever best friend.

'She eventually becomes the comfort zone which every elder sister secretly needed all along.'

Caroline added the caption: 'Louise I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my protector through this difficult time x

A source close to Adam's working-class family claimed the apparent snub happened after the swimmer had distanced himself from her after being seduced by the fame of the Ramsays

'To the people who are being so cruel to my sister, please stop! Sadly you obviously don't understand the bond of sisters.'

Adam hunkered down at his father-in-law Gordon's home after the feud intensified when his brother James was arrested over claims he sent Peaty a barrage of verbal threats while the swimmer was celebrating his stag weekend in Budapest.

It's understood that Peaty's brother James, who works as a builder, was questioned for two days before being released on conditional bail.

A family source told the Daily Mail: 'The boys have always been close, and Jamie, who is a builder, even helped Adam renovate his house.

'They've always got on, but Adam has changed with his new celebrity lifestyle and family.

'Now James has a potential charge hanging over his head and his parents have the headache of being disinvited and banned from their son's wedding.

'This is so hurtful and distressing for our family.'

Peaty was reportedly granted a huge police escort at Manchester airport on Sunday night after flying back home from his stag do.

A spokesperson for Staffordshire Police told the Daily Mail: 'We arrested a 34-year-old man, from the Uttoxeter area, on 11 November 2025, on suspicion of harassment.

'The man was released on conditional bail while our enquiries continue.'

The couple have also been accused of 'body shaming' his mother by his family, after it was claimed she wasn't invited to their wedding due to her appearance and not having the correct 'look'.

As it stands only one member of his family is set to attend on the day as a feud between the two families rumbles on.

Caroline recently broke her silence to the Daily Mail on the bitter rift that has emerged between her family and the one her son is marrying into.

She told us: 'I know it's the end.

'But please, the message I want Adam to hear is no matter what happens in the future, please know I love you, your dad loves you, you can come home and talk to me at any point.

'There's nothing you've done that I would not forgive. I love you so much.

'I hope your marriage is a good one, I don't wish any ill on you and I want you and Holly to have a long and happy marriage, like your dad and me. The reason I'm speaking out is I want all this to end.'

Caroline is acutely aware of how different her world is from the one that her son now inhabits, and the family are said to be worried sick about the power and influence of the Ramsay family.

'He's in Gordon's clutches,' Caroline said. 'I can't help but feel like they are pulling him away from me. Their family is very insular.'
Kate Hudson turned heads as she joined Hugh Jackman at the premiere of their latest movie, Song Sung Blue, held at the Zoo Palast cinema in Berlin, Germany, on Wednesday evening.

The American actress, 46, who stars as Claire Sardina in the upcoming musical drama, looked nothing short of sensational in a plunging blue sheer dress as she posed for sweet snaps alongside Hugh, 57, who plays her on-screen husband Mike.

Kate's show-stopping ensemble featured a daring neckline, long puffed sleeves, ruched detailing at the waist, a dramatic cowl back and a delicate mini train.

Covering her modesty, Kate layered the look with a black triangle bra and silky blue shorts.

The star added inches to her frame with black strappy heels and accessorised with glittering diamond statement earrings.

Meanwhile, Hugh cut a typically dapper figure in a black zip-up jacket, crisp white shirt and black tailored trousers.

Kate Hudson turned heads in a plunging blue dress as she attended the premiere of her latest movie, Song Sung Blue, held at the Zoo Palast cinema in Berlin, Germany, on Wednesday evening

The American actress, 46, who stars as Claire Sardina in the upcoming musical drama, looked sensational in the sheer number as she posed for sweet snaps alongside Hugh Jackman, 57, who plays her on-screen husband Mike

The Wolverine actor appeared in high spirits as he and Kate larked about on the red carpet ahead of the screening.

Song Sung Blue is a biographical musical drama based on the true story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a couple who form a Neil Diamond tribute act called Lightning & Thunder.

The movie follows their journey from struggling Milwaukee performers to finding love and success on stage, navigating personal hurdles, including Mike's troubled past and a serious accident Claire suffers, all while performing Neil Diamond classics.

Song Sung Blue is set to hit UK cinemas on January 1, 2026.

Earlier this month, Kate and Naomi Watts posed together at the Max Mara x Women in Film event in Los Angeles.

It comes 33 years after the blonde beauties  Kate and Naomi, 57  starred together in the 2003 rom-com Le Divorce.

For her part, the How to Lose A Guy in 10 Days star showed off her impressive abs in a two-piece black co-ord consisting of a crop top and maxi skirt in photos shared on social media.

The fashionista teamed the sexy look with open-toe black heels that revealed her vampy black pedicure.

Kate's show-stopping ensemble featured a daring neckline, long puffed sleeves, ruched detailing at the waist, a dramatic cowl back and a delicate mini train

Covering her modesty, Kate layered the look with a black triangle bra and silky blue shorts as she put on a sweet display with Hugh on the red carpet

To complete her look, the star added inches to her frame with black strappy heels and accessorised with glittering diamond statement earrings

Meanwhile, Hugh cut a typically dapper figure in a black zip-up jacket, crisp white shirt and black tailored trousers

The Wolverine actor appeared in high spirits as he and Kate larked about on the red carpet ahead of the screening

Song Sung Blue is a biographical musical drama based on the true story of Mike and Claire Sardina, a couple who form a Neil Diamond tribute act called Lightning & Thunder (Kate and Hugh pictured in the movie)

Meanwhile, Naomi turned heads in a structured, shrunken off-white blazer with sleeves that cropped just above her wrists.

The former co-stars flashed megawatt smiles while embracing inside the glitzy event, held at Chateau Marmont.

Kate shared images from the cocktail party with her nearly 19 million Instagram followers ahead of the weekend.

She was joined by 53-year-old actress Leslie Mann in one snapshot, whose daughter, Maude Apatow, 27, was one of the night's honorees.

The nepo baby, whose mother is Goldie Hawn, captioned the carousel post, 'A night out with @maxmara.'

Naomi also shared multiple photos from the evening, beginning with the shot of her and her former on-screen sibling.

Earlier this month, Kate and Naomi Watts posed together at the Max Mara x Women in Film event in Los Angeles

It comes 33 years after the blonde beauties  Kate and Naomi, 57  starred together in the 2003 rom-com Le Divorce (both pictured in the movie)

The photo of them showed both in matching sunglasses, prompting her to write in the caption, 'Sunglasses at night. Thanks @maxmara and @marcolin_eyewear for a great evening!'

During the event, Maude, most recognised for her role in the HBO hit series Euphoria, was awarded Max Mara's Face of the Future honour in recognition of her work as an actress, writer, and director.

Maude has embraced nepotism with her latest project, the movie Poetic License, casting several stars who have had a leg up in the industry owing to their famous backgrounds.

The filmmaker, whose debut role was at age seven in her father Judd Apatow's comedy The 40-Year-Old Virgin, made her directorial debut with the film, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September.
Adam Peaty has admitted his family were 'ashamed' of him and wished he'd spent more time with them after he 'changed' following his Olympic success.

The gold medallist, 30, was the first male British swimmer in 24 years to secure the win for the 100m breaststroke at the 2016 Olympics. He retained the title at the Tokyo Olympics five years later.

Adam came from humble Staffordshire beginnings born to his mother Caroline and father Mark - but his Olympic success propelled him into the world of fame of fortune.

In September 2024, Adam got engaged to Gordon Ramsay's daughter Holly, 25, however he found himself at the centre of a media storm last week when a volatile family row surrounding their upcoming wedding was revealed, with his family allegedly claiming he had distanced himself from them after being seduced by fame and the Ramsay clan.

And an excerpt from Adam's 2021 autobiography The Gladiator Mindset has now been unearthed, in which he very candidly exposes his own flaws and how being 'super focused' on his career in swimming impacted relationships.

He wrote: 'Some of the closest people to me take it personally and despite my reassurances that I really do care, they think that I've changed through success and as a result I am ashamed of them and that I should spend more time with them.'

Adam Peaty admitted his family were 'ashamed' of him and wished he'd spent more time with them after he 'changed' following his Olympic success in an unearthed excerpt from his autobiography (Seen in 2024)

Adam came from humble Staffordshire beginnings born to his mother Caroline and father Mark - but his Olympic success propelled him into the world of fame of fortune

Adam went on to share that he can sometimes lack 'empathy' and branded himself a 'selfish athlete'.

Elsewhere in the book Adam says he has 'a bit of a split personality' and goes as far to say that one side of him is 'unpleasant to be around'.

It comes after Adam broke his silence amid the toxic family rift that has overshadowed his upcoming wedding to fiancee Holly Ramsay.

The Olympic swimmer took to Instagram on Wednesday as he insisted there are 'two sides to every story' and that he, Holly and his sister Bethany 'will get through' the 'challenging times'.

He penned: 'For those who know me personally, you know that I work so hard on trying to improve myself as a person who wants to contribute to making the world a better place.

'I am continuing to learn about myself and how I can be the man I want to be; a worthy partner, father, businessman, friend and athlete; even through these challenging times.

'Bethany [his sister], Holly and I will get through this - we do not ask for sympathy. We just need people to be aware that there are always two sides to every story.

'To those of you who have reached out and shown kindness and understanding - thank you. It is deeply appreciated.'

And now an excerpt from Adam's 2021 autobiography The Gladiator Mindset has unearthed in which he very candidly exposes his own flaws

In September 2024, Adam got engaged to Gordon Ramsay's daughter Holly however he found himself at the centre of a media storm last week when a volatile family row surrounding their upcoming wedding was revealed

He also explained that he cannot go into detail due to 'an ongoing police investigation into serious matters that arose long before recent events'.

Last week it was claimed Holly and Adam have banned his mother from their wedding after an astonishing family row over Holly's failure to invite her future mother-in-law to her hen party.

The influencer daughter of fiery chef Gordon Ramsay welcomed her own mother Tana, family friend Victoria Beckham and Adam's sister to her pre-nuptial celebrations at the celebrity hotspot Soho Farmhouse.

A source close to Adam's working-class family claimed the apparent snub happened after the swimmer, who was once close to his mother, had distanced himself from her after being seduced by the fame and glamour of the Ramsays.

When the row came to light, Adam's aunt Louise blasted her nephew and his fiancee Holly in a series of Instagram comments, where she also detailed what she claimed was the reason why her sister was not invited to the bride's hen party.

Over the weekend, Caroline also broke her silence on the rift in an exclusive interview with the Daily Mail, breaking down in tears as she claimed Holly's family are 'pulling him away from her'. You can read the full interview here.

In a post on Instagram, Caroline shared the quote: 'The moment you realise: The little sister who once drove you crazy is now the one who keeps you sane - your loudest supporter and forever best friend.

'She eventually becomes the comfort zone which every elder sister secretly needed all along.'

Last week it was claimed Holly and Adam have banned his mother from their wedding after an astonishing family row over Holly's failure to invite her future mother-in-law to her hen party (pictured with his mother Caroline and Holly in 2024)

Caroline added the caption: 'Louise I thank you from the bottom of my heart for being my protector through this difficult time x.

'To the people who are being so cruel to my sister, please stop! Sadly you obviously don't understand the bond of sisters.'

Adam hunkered down at his father-in-law Gordon's home after the feud intensified when his brother James was arrested over claims he sent Adam a barrage of verbal threats while the swimmer was celebrating his stag weekend in Budapest.

It's understood that Adam's brother James, who works as a builder, was questioned for two days before being released on conditional bail.

A family source told the Daily Mail: 'The boys have always been close, and Jamie, who is a builder, even helped Adam renovate his house.

'They've always got on, but Adam has changed with his new celebrity lifestyle and family.

'Now James has a potential charge hanging over his head and his parents have the headache of being disinvited and banned from their son's wedding.

'This is so hurtful and distressing for our family.'
Meryl Streep and her onscreen husband Martin Short continued to fuel romance rumors by attending the opening of off-Broadway play This World of Tomorrow on Tuesday night.

The coy couple were supporting their famous friend Tom Hanks, who co-wrote and stars in the time-traveling drama which runs through December 21 at The Shed's Griffin Theater in Manhattan.

Short, 75, and Streep, 76, looked happy and relaxed while chatting backstage with Hanks, 69, and their Only Murders in the Building creator-star Steve Martin.

The three-time Oscar winning actress and the Canadian comedian and actor, whose favorite date spot is Giorgio Baldi, were not looking for a relationship when they allegedly began dating in early 2024.

'Meryl couldn't help but fall for Martin. He is a gentleman, he keeps her laughing and is an all-around positive person. She loves being around him,' an insider told Page Six on March 13.

Meryl Streep and Martin Short continue to fuel dating rumors as they attended Tom Hank's off-Broadway play This World of Tomorrow on Tuesday evening (also pictured Rita Wilson)

'Their friends and family, including their kids, absolutely approve of their relationship and think they're adorable together.'

Streep is still technically married to sculptor Don Gummer, whom she legally separated from in 2017 after 45 years of marriage and welcoming four children.

She previously dated actor John Cazale, whom she cared for until he died from lung cancer in 1978.

Short has been single since tragically losing his wife Nancy Dolman, at age 58, in 2010 to ovarian cancer after 30 years of marriage and welcoming three adopted children.

'Meryl and Martin have bonded over the loss of their spouses,' the source added.

But Short denied the rumor on Bill Maher's podcast Club Random in January 2024: 'We're not a couple. We are just very close friends.'

Seven months later, Streep's rep denied the rumor in Page Six: 'They are just friends.'

But the seven-time Grammy nominee and the Tony-winning thespian spent Valentine's Day together this year sitting side by side at the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert.

Two days later, Amy Schumer teased to People: 'I think that the tea is, I think Marty might be off the market. That's what I'm seeing. I don't know. Maybe by just like the greatest actor of our time, I don't know.'

Short and Steep were side-by-side yet again on March 9 as they posed with the cast and crew of Broadway play Oh, Mary! backstage at the Lyceum Theatre.

Short, 75, and Streep, 76, looked happy and relaxed while chatting backstage with Hanks, 69, and their Only Murders in the Building creator-star Steve Martin

Streep and Hanks previously starred together in the movie The Post

The three-time Oscar winning actress and the Canadian comedian and actor were not looking for a relationship when they allegedly began dating in early 2024 (pictured January 2024)

An insider told Page Six on March 13: 'Meryl couldn't help but fall for Martin. He is a gentleman, he keeps her laughing and is an all-around positive person. She loves being around him' (pictured August 2024)

'Their friends and family, including their kids, absolutely approve of their relationship and think they're adorable together,' a source claimed (pictured on Murders in the Building set in May)

On October 28, Hulu renewed Steve Martin and John Hoffman's who-done-it dramedy for a 10-episode sixth season set in London, so expect more from the Oliver Putnam and Loretta Durkin romance across the pond.

The Match Game host is said to earn well over $600K/episode to produce and portray the Arconia resident and Broadway director - according to Variety.

Streep also recently reprised her role as Runway Magazine editor-in-chief Miranda Priestly in David Frankel's sequel The Devil Wears Prada 2, which is already scheduled to hit US theaters May 1.

Streep is still technically married to sculptor Don Gummer (R, pictured in 2018), whom she legally separated from in 2017 after 45 years of marriage and welcoming four children

The SCTV/SNL alum has been single since tragically losing his wife Nancy Dolman (R, pictured in 2009), at age 58, in 2010 to ovarian cancer after 30 years of marriage and welcoming three adopted children

The three-time Emmy winner and Short spent Valentine's Day together this year sitting side by side at the SNL50: The Homecoming Concert

Short and Martin are next scheduled to bring their 21-date The Best of Steve Martin and Martin Short Tour to the Akron Civic Theatre in Akron, OH this Thursday.

The two-time Emmy winner will also portray Mr. Potter in The Ed Asner Family Center's fifth annual celebrity table read of It's a Wonderful Life, which livestreams December 14 at 5pm PST via Broadway Unlocked.

The benefit for families with special needs will also feature Ben Stiller, Christine Taylor, Michael Shannon, Maureen McCormick, Gregory Harrison, Tom Bergeron, Joe Mantegna, Robert Smigel and the cast of Love on the Spectrum.
Taiwan is the bone of contention in East Asia which refuses to perish. A small island nation to the north of the South China Sea, which China claims as its own and Taiwan refuses to accept, is indeed one of the biggest flashpoints in the region. Taiwan is once again the reason for the latest diplomatic flare-up between Japan and China. What began as a candid remark by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on the Taiwan issue has led to an escalation of tension between China and Japan. It has now unfolded into a full-blown geopolitical feud, carrying significant implications for regional security and even global economic stability. The tensions ignited when Takaichi suggested that Japans Self-Defence Forces could respond if China attacked Taiwan, under the Japanese doctrine of a survival-threatening situation. Beijing interpreted this as a clear signal that Tokyo was aligning more openly with the US position on Taiwan. Chinas reaction was swift and crude. The incendiary comment by Chinas consul general in Osaka-hinting that Takaichis dirty head should be cut off  crossed decency and diplomacy at the same time and set off a chain reaction of protests, counter-protests, travel warnings, and cultural sanctions. The verbal spat led to the halting of a film release, trip cancellations, and a surge in mistrust.

Though the flare-up can be attributed to a verbal spat, Taiwan is the faultline rooted in history. But the real catalyst for rising tension may lie in Japans evolving strategic posture. Takaichi, following the assertive vision of her mentor Shinzo Abe, has pushed for stronger defence capabilities and closer alignment with the United States  moves that do not go down well with China. It is one flashpoint the world would not like to see ignited, as the implications are far-reaching. The narrow strait separating Taiwan from the mainland is strategically important to China, and any third-party involvement  especially from a major power like Japan  is a big red flag for China.

Besides strategic considerations, economic fallout could be equally damaging. China is Japans largest trading partner, and even symbolic retaliatory actions  tourism restrictions, cultural boycotts, film bans  can inflict measurable costs on Japans economy, particularly its retail and service sectors. Any shake in Japans economy could have implications for the world economy.

Though India would be watching the developments from afar, it definitely has concerns and interests in East Asian politics. As a member of the Quad and a country with ties to both Japan and China, India has stakes in the stability of the Indo-Pacific. Tokyos stance on regional security aligns with Indias own concerns about Chinas expansionist behaviour. Japan serves as a strategic counterweight that benefits India, while a weaker Japan undermines Indias position in East Asia. Right now, as things are, Delhi must prepare for the possibility of a prolonged Japan-China confrontation disrupting supply chains, trade flows, and the Asian economic set-up. What happens next depends on whether Beijing and Tokyo adopt a pragmatic stance, as even a low-key conflict could ignite the region.
China on Tuesday said the death sentence handed down to deposed Bangladeshi prime minister Sheikh Hasina is an internal affair of Dhaka, as it declined to offer any further comment on the development. Hasina, 78, was on Monday sentenced to death in absentia by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) for crimes against humanity over her Governments brutal crackdown on student-led protests last year. It also handed the death sentence to former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal on similar charges.

It is Bangladeshs internal affair, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning told a media briefing here when asked about the verdict. Mao said China is committed to a policy of good neighbourliness and friendship towards all people of Bangladesh. We sincerely hope that Bangladesh will achieve solidarity, stability, and development, she said. Hasina has been living in India since she fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year in the face of the massive protests.
In a carefully balanced response, the United Nations on Monday described the conviction of Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for crimes against humanity as an important moment for thousands of victims of last years violent protest suppression, while firmly reiterating its universal opposition to the death penalty.

Speaking at UN headquarters in New York, Secretary-General Antonio Guterres spokesperson Stephane Dujarric confirmed that Guterres fully agrees with High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk that the death penalty has no place in any justice system, under any circumstances.

The statement came hours after Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal sentenced the 78-year-old Hasina and her former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal to death in absentia for their roles in the deadly crackdown on student-led demonstrations between July and August 2024, which a UN fact-finding mission estimated claimed as many as 1,400 lives.

Geneva-based UN human rights spokesperson Ravina Shamdasani welcomed the fact that senior leaders are being held accountable, noting that the Office of the High Commissioner has repeatedly called for command responsibility to be addressed in line with international standards since its damning report was released last February. However, she expressed regret over the imposition of capital punishment and raised concerns about due-process guarantees, particularly in trials conducted in absentia that result in death sentences.

The High Commissioner has consistently stressed that all proceedings involving international crimes must unequivocally meet the highest standards of fair trial and due process, Shamdasani said. Both UN officials urged calm and restraint in Bangladesh in the wake of the politically explosive verdict, emphasising that genuine national healing can only come through a broader process of truth-seeking, reparations, and far-reaching security-sector reform that prevents future abuses.

The United Nations stands ready to assist the government and people of Bangladesh in building a justice and reconciliation process that truly serves victims and strengthens the rule of law, the statement concluded. Sheikh Hasina, who fled to India after her government collapsed on 5 August 2024, remains in exile as diplomatic tensions between Dhaka and New Delhi continue over her status.
AKITA Drilling Ltd. (OTCMKTS:AKTAF  Get Free Report) dropped 4.5% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $1.2350 and last traded at $1.2420. Approximately 6,360 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 56% from the average daily volume of 14,586 shares. The stock had previously closed at $1.30.

AKITA Drilling Stock Down 4.5%

The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $1.47 and its 200 day simple moving average is $1.51.

AKITA Drilling Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

AKITA Drilling Ltd. operates as an oil and gas drilling contractor in Canada and the United States. It is involved in the drilling oil and gas wells, potash exploration and development wells, geothermal wells, disposal wells, and carbon storage wells, as well as wells to be developed into storage caverns for gas.

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Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited (OTCMKTS:BKKLY  Get Free Report)s share price fell 0.6% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $25.00 and last traded at $25.10. 4,714 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 4% from the average session volume of 4,912 shares. The stock had previously closed at $25.25.

Bangkok Bank Public Trading Down 0.6%

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $24.58 and a two-hundred day moving average of $23.83.

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Bangkok Bank Public Cuts Dividend

The company also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, October 14th. Investors of record on Friday, September 12th were paid a $0.216 dividend. This represents a dividend yield of 410.0%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 11th. Bangkok Bank Publics payout ratio is currently 28.51%.

About Bangkok Bank Public

Bangkok Bank Public Company Limited provides various commercial banking products and services in Thailand and internationally. It operates through Domestic Banking, International Banking, Investment Banking, and Others segments. The company offers various personal banking products and services, including savings, current, fixed deposit, foreign currency, securities trading, and other accounts; home and personal loans, as well as loans for pensioners; mutual funds; bonds and debentures; life and non-life bancassurance products; payment, funds transfer, currency exchange and foreign instrument, and SMS services; debit, credit, and prepaid cards; and phone and Internet banking, mobile banking, ATMs, and other services.

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Shares of Otis Worldwide Corporation (NYSE:OTIS  Get Free Report) have earned a consensus recommendation of Hold from the nine brokerages that are covering the stock, MarketBeat reports. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, five have given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month target price among brokers that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $103.7143.

OTIS has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their target price on shares of Otis Worldwide from $108.00 to $105.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, July 28th. Zacks Research upgraded Otis Worldwide from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on Otis Worldwide from $105.00 to $111.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Barclays upped their target price on Otis Worldwide from $90.00 to $92.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company lifted their price target on Otis Worldwide from $93.00 to $95.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday, October 6th.

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Insider Transactions at Otis Worldwide

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Otis Worldwide

In other Otis Worldwide news, CAO Michael Patrick Ryan sold 3,028 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.69, for a total value of $277,637.32. Following the completion of the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 2,628 shares of the companys stock, valued at $240,961.32. The trade was a 53.54% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . 0.23% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of OTIS. Root Financial Partners LLC bought a new position in Otis Worldwide during the third quarter valued at about $26,000. Cheviot Value Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Otis Worldwide during the 1st quarter valued at about $31,000. Chilton Capital Management LLC bought a new position in shares of Otis Worldwide in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Nemes Rush Group LLC lifted its holdings in Otis Worldwide by 75.4% in the 2nd quarter. Nemes Rush Group LLC now owns 314 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 135 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rakuten Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in Otis Worldwide during the third quarter worth approximately $31,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 88.03% of the companys stock.

Otis Worldwide Trading Down 0.3%

Shares of NYSE OTIS opened at $87.84 on Friday. Otis Worldwide has a one year low of $84.25 and a one year high of $106.83. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $90.57 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $92.51. The firm has a market capitalization of $34.23 billion, a PE ratio of 25.91, a PEG ratio of 3.36 and a beta of 1.00.

Otis Worldwide (NYSE:OTIS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $1.05 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $3.69 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.65 billion. Otis Worldwide had a negative return on equity of 30.67% and a net margin of 9.41%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 4.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $0.96 EPS. Otis Worldwide has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.040-4.080 EPS. Research analysts anticipate that Otis Worldwide will post 4.04 EPS for the current year.

Otis Worldwide Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 5th. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be given a dividend of $0.42 per share. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Otis Worldwides dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 49.56%.

Otis Worldwide Company Profile

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Otis Worldwide Corporation engages in manufacturing, installation, and servicing of elevators and escalators in the United States, China, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, New Equipment and Service. The New Equipment segment designs, manufactures, sells, and installs a range of passenger and freight elevators, as well as escalators and moving walkways for residential and commercial buildings, and infrastructure projects.

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W.R. Berkley Corporation (NYSE:WRB  Get Free Report) has received a consensus recommendation of Hold from the fifteen analysts that are presently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a sell rating, ten have given a hold rating and three have assigned a buy rating to the company. The average 12 month price objective among brokers that have issued a report on the stock in the last year is $74.8462.

Several equities research analysts have recently weighed in on WRB shares. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of W.R. Berkley in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. BMO Capital Markets cut W.R. Berkley from a market perform rating to an underperform rating and set a $64.00 price target on the stock. in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Wolfe Research initiated coverage on W.R. Berkley in a report on Monday, September 15th. They set a peer perform rating on the stock. Barclays reiterated an underweight rating and issued a $73.00 target price on shares of W.R. Berkley in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $80.00 price target on shares of W.R. Berkley in a report on Monday.

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W.R. Berkley Stock Up 0.5%

NYSE WRB opened at $77.49 on Friday. W.R. Berkley has a 12 month low of $55.97 and a 12 month high of $78.48. The company has a market capitalization of $29.45 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.28, a PEG ratio of 2.73 and a beta of 0.40. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $74.96 and its 200 day simple moving average is $72.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 0.37 and a quick ratio of 0.37.

W.R. Berkley (NYSE:WRB  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, October 20th. The insurance provider reported $1.10 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.07 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $3.77 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.16 billion. W.R. Berkley had a net margin of 13.01% and a return on equity of 19.35%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 10.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $0.93 earnings per share. Equities research analysts expect that W.R. Berkley will post 4.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

W.R. Berkley Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Monday, September 22nd were issued a $0.09 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 22nd. This represents a $0.36 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.5%. W.R. Berkleys dividend payout ratio is presently 7.56%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Large investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of W.R. Berkley by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Group Inc. now owns 737,183 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $54,161,000 after purchasing an additional 4,423 shares in the last quarter. Czech National Bank lifted its position in W.R. Berkley by 6.3% in the second quarter. Czech National Bank now owns 73,255 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,382,000 after purchasing an additional 4,336 shares during the period. Federation des caisses Desjardins du Quebec boosted its stake in W.R. Berkley by 70.8% during the first quarter. Federation des caisses Desjardins du Quebec now owns 17,197 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,224,000 after buying an additional 7,131 shares in the last quarter. Atria Investments Inc increased its holdings in W.R. Berkley by 3.9% in the 2nd quarter. Atria Investments Inc now owns 100,631 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $7,393,000 after buying an additional 3,750 shares during the period. Finally, Gallacher Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of W.R. Berkley in the 2nd quarter valued at $323,000. 68.82% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About W.R. Berkley

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W. R. Berkley Corporation, an insurance holding company, operates as a commercial lines writers worldwide. It operates in two segments, Insurance and Reinsurance & Monoline Excess. The Insurance segment underwrites commercial insurance business, including excess and surplus lines, admitted lines, and specialty personal lines.

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Dynatrace, Inc. (NYSE:DT  Get Free Report) CAO Daniel Yates sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $46.69, for a total value of $93,380.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 23,380 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,091,612.20. The trade was a 7.88% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link.

Dynatrace Trading Up 2.8%

DT stock traded up $1.26 on Tuesday, hitting $46.41. The companys stock had a trading volume of 4,287,088 shares, compared to its average volume of 3,132,524. The stock has a market cap of $13.99 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.72 and a beta of 0.85. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $48.54 and a two-hundred day moving average of $50.90. Dynatrace, Inc. has a 1 year low of $39.30 and a 1 year high of $63.00.

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Dynatrace (NYSE:DT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $0.44 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.41 by $0.03. Dynatrace had a return on equity of 9.24% and a net margin of 27.33%.The business had revenue of $493.85 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $487.33 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business earned $0.37 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 18.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Dynatrace has set its Q3 2026 guidance at 0.400-0.420 EPS. FY 2026 guidance at 1.620-1.640 EPS. As a group, equities analysts forecast that Dynatrace, Inc. will post 0.68 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the business. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC boosted its position in Dynatrace by 561.4% during the 3rd quarter. Cornerstone Planning Group LLC now owns 582 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 494 shares during the period. MAI Capital Management boosted its position in shares of Dynatrace by 122.4% in the second quarter. MAI Capital Management now owns 547 shares of the companys stock worth $30,000 after buying an additional 301 shares during the period. VSM Wealth Advisory LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Dynatrace during the 2nd quarter valued at about $34,000. Eastern Bank purchased a new position in Dynatrace in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $35,000. Finally, Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. purchased a new position in Dynatrace in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $37,000. 94.28% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Several research firms have recently commented on DT. Citigroup lowered their price target on shares of Dynatrace from $68.00 to $64.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, August 18th. Cantor Fitzgerald reduced their price objective on Dynatrace from $57.00 to $51.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Wells Fargo & Company assumed coverage on Dynatrace in a research note on Tuesday, September 30th. They set an overweight rating and a $65.00 price objective on the stock. Wall Street Zen cut Dynatrace from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Guggenheim upped their target price on shares of Dynatrace from $66.00 to $68.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 7th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have issued a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $62.27.

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About Dynatrace

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Dynatrace, Inc provides a security platform for multicloud environments in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. The company operates Dynatrace, a security platform, which provides application and microservices monitoring, runtime application security, infrastructure monitoring, log management and analytics, digital experience monitoring, digital business analytics, and cloud automation.

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GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report)s share price fell 1.3% on Tuesday . The company traded as low as $293.75 and last traded at $296.1290. 4,051,032 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 25% from the average session volume of 5,428,992 shares. The stock had previously closed at $300.13.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of GE Aerospace from $275.00 to $325.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Sanford C. Bernstein reaffirmed an outperform rating on shares of GE Aerospace in a research report on Monday, October 27th. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price objective on GE Aerospace from $271.00 to $305.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Wolfe Research boosted their target price on GE Aerospace from $280.00 to $330.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of GE Aerospace in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Fifteen equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $301.27.

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GE Aerospace Stock Down 1.3%

The firm has a 50-day moving average of $300.40 and a two-hundred day moving average of $269.55. The firm has a market cap of $312.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 39.54, a PEG ratio of 3.09 and a beta of 1.56. The company has a current ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.99.

GE Aerospace (NYSE:GE  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 21st. The company reported $1.66 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.46 by $0.20. GE Aerospace had a return on equity of 34.01% and a net margin of 18.34%.The company had revenue of $11.31 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $10.29 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the business posted $1.15 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 26.4% on a year-over-year basis. GE Aerospace has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.000-6.200 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that GE Aerospace will post 5.4 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

GE Aerospace Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 27th. Investors of record on Monday, September 29th were paid a dividend of $0.36 per share. This represents a $1.44 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.5%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 29th. GE Aerospaces dividend payout ratio is presently 19.23%.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in GE. Ameriflex Group Inc. grew its position in GE Aerospace by 23.5% during the 2nd quarter. Ameriflex Group Inc. now owns 1,742 shares of the companys stock worth $437,000 after acquiring an additional 331 shares during the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC raised its position in GE Aerospace by 17.1% in the 1st quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 8,241 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,647,000 after purchasing an additional 1,201 shares during the last quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey boosted its stake in GE Aerospace by 1.8% in the second quarter. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey now owns 159,682 shares of the companys stock worth $41,101,000 after purchasing an additional 2,779 shares in the last quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in GE Aerospace by 7.0% in the second quarter. Mirae Asset Global Investments Co. Ltd. now owns 182,120 shares of the companys stock worth $46,876,000 after purchasing an additional 11,873 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Leisure Capital Management bought a new stake in shares of GE Aerospace during the first quarter worth $222,000. Institutional investors own 74.77% of the companys stock.

About GE Aerospace

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GE Aerospace (also known as General Electric) is a company that specializes in providing aerospace products and services. It operates through two reportable segments: Commercial Engines and Services and Defense and Propulsion Technologies. It offers jet and turboprop engines, as well as integrated systems for commercial, military, business, and general aviation aircraft.

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Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust (NYSE:BMN  Get Free Report) major shareholder Of America Corp /De/ Bank bought 1,164 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The shares were purchased at an average price of $24.76 per share, for a total transaction of $28,820.64. Following the purchase, the insider owned 1,164 shares in the company, valued at $28,820.64. This represents a  increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this link. Major shareholders that own at least 10% of a companys shares are required to disclose their transactions with the SEC.

Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:BMN traded down $0.07 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $24.64. 14,014 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 13,253. Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust has a 52-week low of $23.04 and a 52-week high of $26.09. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $24.92 and its 200 day simple moving average is $24.61.

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Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be issued a dividend of $0.0938 per share. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 4.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust

Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust Company Profile

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Osaic Holdings Inc. boosted its position in shares of Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust by 173.2% during the 2nd quarter. Osaic Holdings Inc. now owns 5,000 shares of the companys stock valued at $123,000 after acquiring an additional 3,170 shares during the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust during the third quarter valued at $289,000. Narwhal Capital Management bought a new position in Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust during the 3rd quarter valued at about $476,000. Truist Financial Corp lifted its stake in Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust by 13.4% in the second quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 24,048 shares of the companys stock worth $592,000 after purchasing an additional 2,848 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Jacobi Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust during the 1st quarter worth approximately $659,000.

(Get Free Report)

Blackrock 2037 Municipal Target Term Trust is an close-ended fixed income mutual fund launched by Blackrock, Inc The fund is managed by BlackRock Advisors, LLC. It invests in fixed income markets. The fund primarily invests in n investment grade municipal securities that are rated BBB- or above by S&P and Fitch or Baa3 or above by Moody's.

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Pure Storage, Inc. (NYSE:PSTG  Get Free Report) was down 2.3% during trading on Tuesday . The stock traded as low as $81.26 and last traded at $82.2060. Approximately 2,438,111 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 15% from the average daily volume of 2,873,023 shares. The stock had previously closed at $84.15.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have commented on PSTG. UBS Group set a $110.00 price objective on shares of Pure Storage in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Lake Street Capital raised their price objective on shares of Pure Storage from $70.00 to $80.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, August 28th. Oppenheimer started coverage on Pure Storage in a research report on Monday. They issued an outperform rating and a $120.00 target price on the stock. Morgan Stanley upped their price objective on Pure Storage from $72.00 to $90.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday. Finally, Guggenheim boosted their target price on shares of Pure Storage from $93.00 to $105.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, September 26th. Thirteen research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $92.61.

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Pure Storage Trading Down 2.3%

The business has a 50-day moving average price of $89.34 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $68.74. The stock has a market capitalization of $27.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 200.51, a P/E/G ratio of 8.99 and a beta of 1.24.

Pure Storage (NYSE:PSTG  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, September 9th. The technology company reported $0.44 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $763.77 million for the quarter. Pure Storage had a return on equity of 11.34% and a net margin of 4.15%. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Pure Storage, Inc. will post 0.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at Pure Storage

In other news, insider John Colgrove sold 100,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $91.59, for a total value of $9,159,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 100,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,159,000. This represents a 50.00% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CAO Mona Chu sold 17,500 shares of Pure Storage stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $76.51, for a total transaction of $1,338,925.00. Following the sale, the chief accounting officer directly owned 138,899 shares in the company, valued at $10,627,162.49. This trade represents a 11.19% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 443,111 shares of company stock worth $36,793,439 in the last three months. Insiders own 5.60% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Pure Storage

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in PSTG. Winnow Wealth LLC acquired a new position in shares of Pure Storage during the third quarter worth $26,000. Provenance Wealth Advisors LLC bought a new stake in Pure Storage during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $27,000. Foster Dykema Cabot & Partners LLC bought a new stake in Pure Storage during the 3rd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Assetmark Inc. raised its stake in shares of Pure Storage by 186.6% during the third quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 341 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $29,000 after acquiring an additional 222 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Banque Transatlantique SA acquired a new position in shares of Pure Storage during the third quarter worth $29,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 83.42% of the companys stock.

About Pure Storage

(Get Free Report)

Pure Storage, Inc engages in the provision of data storage and management technologies, products, and services in the United States and internationally. Its Purity software is shared across its products and provides enterprise-class data services, such as always-on data reduction, data protection, and encryption, as well as storage protocols, including block, file, and object.

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Rollins, Inc. (NYSE:ROL  Get Free Report) insider Thomas Tesh sold 2,395 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $57.77, for a total value of $138,359.15. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 34,732 shares in the company, valued at $2,006,467.64. This trade represents a 6.45% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink.

Rollins Stock Performance

NYSE ROL traded up $0.73 during trading on Tuesday, hitting $58.69. The companys stock had a trading volume of 3,351,672 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,952,310. Rollins, Inc. has a 52 week low of $45.34 and a 52 week high of $60.35. The company has a quick ratio of 0.63, a current ratio of 0.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.34. The firm has a market cap of $28.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 54.85 and a beta of 0.72. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $57.19 and a 200 day moving average price of $56.97.

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Rollins (NYSE:ROL  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The business services provider reported $0.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.32 by $0.03. Rollins had a net margin of 14.02% and a return on equity of 38.66%. The business had revenue of $1.03 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.02 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.29 earnings per share. Rollinss quarterly revenue was up 12.0% on a year-over-year basis. Equities research analysts forecast that Rollins, Inc. will post 1.09 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Rollins Increases Dividend

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th will be issued a dividend of $0.1825 per share. This represents a $0.73 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.2%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. This is a positive change from Rollinss previous quarterly dividend of $0.17. Rollinss payout ratio is presently 68.22%.

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Root Financial Partners LLC acquired a new position in shares of Rollins in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $31,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new stake in Rollins in the second quarter valued at $30,000. GW&K Investment Management LLC raised its stake in Rollins by 961.4% during the first quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 605 shares of the business services providers stock worth $33,000 after acquiring an additional 548 shares in the last quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. raised its stake in Rollins by 58.4% during the second quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. now owns 730 shares of the business services providers stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 269 shares in the last quarter. Finally, CYBER HORNET ETFs LLC bought a new position in shares of Rollins during the second quarter valued at $42,000. Institutional investors own 51.79% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating and issued a $64.00 target price on shares of Rollins in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Zacks Research cut Rollins from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, August 13th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Rollins in a research report on Monday. JPMorgan Chase & Co. began coverage on Rollins in a report on Friday, September 26th. They set an overweight rating and a $70.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Piper Sandler upped their target price on Rollins from $70.00 to $72.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, July 25th. Nine research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $63.42.

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About Rollins

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Rollins, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides pest and wildlife control services to residential and commercial customers in the United States and internationally. The company offers pest control services to residential properties protecting from common pests, including rodents, insects, and wildlife.

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SES AI Corporation (NYSE:SES  Get Free Report) insider Hong Gan sold 150,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $1.90, for a total value of $285,000.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 1,253,286 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,381,243.40. The trade was a 10.69% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website.

SES AI Price Performance

NYSE SES traded down $0.04 on Tuesday, hitting $1.86. 7,807,684 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 17,479,986. The companys 50-day moving average price is $2.19 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $1.42. The company has a market capitalization of $678.41 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -6.63 and a beta of 0.53. SES AI Corporation has a 52-week low of $0.28 and a 52-week high of $3.73.

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SES AI (NYSE:SES  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported ($0.06) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.05) by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $7.12 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.58 million. SES AI had a negative net margin of 490.03% and a negative return on equity of 35.31%. SES AI has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts predict that SES AI Corporation will post -0.23 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms recently commented on SES. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d-) rating on shares of SES AI in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Cantor Fitzgerald lifted their price target on SES AI from $2.00 to $4.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, November 6th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $4.00.

Read Our Latest Report on SES

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in SES. Raymond James Financial Inc. boosted its position in SES AI by 35.1% during the third quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 20,268 shares of the companys stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 5,268 shares during the period. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of SES AI by 42.9% in the third quarter. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 20,000 shares of the companys stock worth $33,000 after purchasing an additional 6,000 shares during the period. Savant Capital LLC boosted its stake in SES AI by 32.1% during the 2nd quarter. Savant Capital LLC now owns 58,118 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 14,118 shares during the period. Sitrin Capital Management LLC increased its position in SES AI by 50.0% in the 2nd quarter. Sitrin Capital Management LLC now owns 60,000 shares of the companys stock worth $53,000 after buying an additional 20,000 shares during the period. Finally, Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC boosted its position in shares of SES AI by 136.5% in the second quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 38,006 shares of the companys stock valued at $34,000 after acquiring an additional 21,934 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 29.78% of the companys stock.

SES AI Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

SES AI Corporation engages in the development and production of high-performance Lithium-metal rechargeable batteries for electric vehicles, electric vehicle take-off and landing, and other applications. The company was founded in 2012 and is headquartered in Woburn, Massachusetts.

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Mistras Group Inc (NYSE:MG  Free Report)  Equities researchers at Singular Research issued their Q1 2026 earnings estimates for shares of Mistras Group in a report issued on Thursday, November 13th. Singular Research analyst C. Sakai forecasts that the technology company will earn $0.10 per share for the quarter. The consensus estimate for Mistras Groups current full-year earnings is $0.71 per share. Singular Research also issued estimates for Mistras Groups Q2 2026 earnings at $0.32 EPS, Q3 2026 earnings at $0.30 EPS and Q4 2026 earnings at $0.27 EPS.

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A number of other brokerages also recently commented on MG. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Mistras Group from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Mistras Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, According to MarketBeat.com, Mistras Group currently has an average rating of Hold.

Mistras Group Trading Down 2.0%

Shares of Mistras Group stock opened at $11.84 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.89, a quick ratio of 1.54 and a current ratio of 1.66. The company has a market capitalization of $373.53 million, a P/E ratio of 32.00, a PEG ratio of 0.90 and a beta of 1.26. Mistras Group has a 1 year low of $7.06 and a 1 year high of $13.43. The companys fifty day moving average is $10.24 and its two-hundred day moving average is $8.98.

Mistras Group (NYSE:MG  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The technology company reported $0.46 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.26 by $0.20. Mistras Group had a return on equity of 9.37% and a net margin of 1.64%.The business had revenue of $195.55 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $189.94 million.

Insider Activity

In other Mistras Group news, EVP Eileen Mary Coggins acquired 15,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 15th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $9.55 per share, with a total value of $143,250.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 15,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $143,250. This trade represents a  increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 4.80% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Institutional Trading of Mistras Group

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MG. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP increased its stake in shares of Mistras Group by 0.6% during the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 1,633,327 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $16,072,000 after acquiring an additional 10,186 shares during the last quarter. Royce & Associates LP boosted its position in shares of Mistras Group by 5.6% in the third quarter. Royce & Associates LP now owns 1,342,747 shares of the technology companys stock worth $13,213,000 after acquiring an additional 71,490 shares during the last quarter. Acuitas Investments LLC grew its holdings in Mistras Group by 51.7% in the third quarter. Acuitas Investments LLC now owns 643,483 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $6,332,000 after purchasing an additional 219,421 shares during the period. Invenomic Capital Management LP acquired a new position in Mistras Group during the third quarter worth approximately $4,650,000. Finally, Bridgeway Capital Management LLC raised its stake in Mistras Group by 2.8% during the second quarter. Bridgeway Capital Management LLC now owns 418,737 shares of the technology companys stock worth $3,354,000 after purchasing an additional 11,599 shares during the period. 74.92% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

Mistras Group Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Mistras Group, Inc provides technology-enabled asset protection solutions in the United States, other Americas, Europe, and the Asia-Pacific. The company offers non-destructive testing services; inline inspection for pipelines; and plant condition management software. It also provides maintenance and light mechanical services, such as corrosion removal, mitigation and prevention, insulation installation and removal, electrical, heat tracing, industrial cleaning, pipefitting, and welding; engineering consulting services primarily for process equipment, technologies, and facilities; and utilizes scaffolding and rope access to access at-height and confined assets.

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Shares of TV Asahi Holdings Co. (OTCMKTS:THDDY  Get Free Report) were up 8.5% during mid-day trading on Tuesday . The company traded as high as $22.05 and last traded at $22.05. 1,397 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 26% from the average daily volume of 1,110 shares. The stock had previously closed at $20.3250.

TV Asahi Trading Up 8.5%

The firm has a fifty day moving average of $21.17 and a 200 day moving average of $19.71.

About TV Asahi

(Get Free Report)

TV Asahi Holdings Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in television (TV) broadcasting business in Japan and internationally. The company operates through TV Broadcasting Business, Internet Business, Shopping Business, and Other Businesses segments. It engages in the video distribution with advertisements using the internet, production of video distribution content, and licensing of rights; mail-order sales on TV shopping programs and EC sites; and other businesses, including music publishing, event, equipment sales and leasing, and investment in film business.

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ABM Industries Incorporated (NYSE:ABM  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week low during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $40.76 and last traded at $40.64, with a volume of 256647 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $42.07.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

ABM has been the subject of several recent analyst reports. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of ABM Industries in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded ABM Industries from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, October 4th. Baird R W lowered ABM Industries from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, September 8th. Robert W. Baird reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $54.00 target price (down previously from $56.00) on shares of ABM Industries in a report on Monday, September 8th. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of ABM Industries from $54.00 to $55.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday, September 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, ABM Industries presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $55.67.

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ABM Industries Stock Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $2.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.06 and a beta of 0.76. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.82, a current ratio of 1.49 and a quick ratio of 1.49. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $44.57 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $47.12.

ABM Industries (NYSE:ABM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, September 5th. The business services provider reported $0.82 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.95 by ($0.13). ABM Industries had a return on equity of 12.12% and a net margin of 1.34%.The business had revenue of $2.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.16 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.94 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 6.2% compared to the same quarter last year. ABM Industries has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.650-3.650 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that ABM Industries Incorporated will post 3.71 earnings per share for the current year.

ABM Industries Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Thursday, October 2nd were given a dividend of $0.265 per share. This represents a $1.06 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 2nd. ABM Industriess payout ratio is currently 57.61%.

ABM Industries declared that its Board of Directors has initiated a stock repurchase plan on Friday, September 5th that authorizes the company to repurchase $150.00 million in shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the business services provider to buy up to 5% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase plans are often an indication that the companys management believes its stock is undervalued.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On ABM Industries

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Nordea Investment Management AB raised its position in ABM Industries by 1,068.7% in the 3rd quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 1,606,331 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $73,297,000 after purchasing an additional 1,468,887 shares during the last quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. boosted its stake in shares of ABM Industries by 419.5% during the third quarter. Ameriprise Financial Inc. now owns 1,111,320 shares of the business services providers stock worth $51,254,000 after buying an additional 897,402 shares during the period. Norges Bank purchased a new position in shares of ABM Industries during the second quarter worth about $38,434,000. SG Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in shares of ABM Industries during the second quarter worth about $29,064,000. Finally, Boston Partners increased its position in ABM Industries by 2,129.6% in the 1st quarter. Boston Partners now owns 641,351 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $30,367,000 after acquiring an additional 612,586 shares during the period. 91.62% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About ABM Industries

(Get Free Report)

ABM Industries Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of integrated facility, infrastructure, and mobility solutions in the United States and internationally. It operates through Business & Industry, Manufacturing & Distribution, Education, Aviation, and Technical Solutions segments.

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Japan Airlines (OTCMKTS:JAPSY  Get Free Report) and Air China (OTCMKTS:AIRYY  Get Free Report) are both transportation companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, risk, earnings and dividends.

Risk & Volatility

Japan Airlines has a beta of 0.42, indicating that its stock price is 58% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Air China has a beta of 0.13, indicating that its stock price is 87% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Japan Airlines and Air Chinas revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Japan Airlines $12.11 billion 0.66 $706.45 million $0.95 9.68 Air China $23.19 billion 0.60 -$32.35 million $0.02 840.50

Japan Airlines has higher earnings, but lower revenue than Air China. Japan Airlines is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Air China, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of recent ratings and recommmendations for Japan Airlines and Air China, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Japan Airlines 0 1 0 1 3.00 Air China 0 0 0 0 0.00

Dividends

Japan Airlines pays an annual dividend of $0.21 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.3%. Air China pays an annual dividend of $0.09 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.5%. Japan Airlines pays out 22.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Air China pays out 450.0% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Japan Airlines is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Profitability

This table compares Japan Airlines and Air Chinas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Japan Airlines 6.48% 12.66% 4.57% Air China 0.47% 2.03% 0.23%

Summary

Japan Airlines beats Air China on 11 of the 13 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Japan Airlines

(Get Free Report)

Japan Airlines Co., Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides scheduled and non-scheduled air transport services in Japan, Asia, Oceania, North America, and Europe. The company operates through Air Transportation and Other segments. It offers passenger, ground handling, cargo and mail handling, and maintenance services. The company is also involved in the aerial work and other related business; airport peripheral business; and sale of travel package tours. As of March 31, 2023, it operated a fleet of 224 aircraft. The company was formerly known as Japan Airlines International Co., Ltd. and changed its name to Japan Airlines Co., Ltd. in April 2011. The company was founded in 1951 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

About Air China

(Get Free Report)

Air China Limited, together with its subsidiaries, provides air passenger, air cargo, and airline-related services in Mainland China, Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, China, and internationally. The company operates in Airline Operations and Other Operations segments. It provides aircraft engineering and airport ground handling services. The company is also involved in the import and export trading activities; and provision of cabin, airline catering, air ticketing, human resources, aircraft overhaul and maintenance, and financial services. Air China Limited was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in Beijing, the People's Republic of China.

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Vanguard Group Inc. raised its holdings in Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO  Free Report) by 1.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 159,717,148 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 1,599,923 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned approximately 9.51% of Altria Group worth $9,364,216,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Westside Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in Altria Group by 4.5% in the second quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 3,816 shares of the companys stock valued at $224,000 after purchasing an additional 166 shares during the period. Jacobi Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 0.6% in the 1st quarter. Jacobi Capital Management LLC now owns 26,335 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,581,000 after purchasing an additional 168 shares during the last quarter. Bar Harbor Wealth Management grew its stake in shares of Altria Group by 3.1% during the 2nd quarter. Bar Harbor Wealth Management now owns 5,656 shares of the companys stock valued at $332,000 after buying an additional 169 shares during the period. Parcion Private Wealth LLC increased its holdings in shares of Altria Group by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. Parcion Private Wealth LLC now owns 11,172 shares of the companys stock worth $655,000 after buying an additional 172 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Patten & Patten Inc. TN raised its position in shares of Altria Group by 1.5% in the 1st quarter. Patten & Patten Inc. TN now owns 12,049 shares of the companys stock worth $723,000 after buying an additional 174 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 57.41% of the companys stock.

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Altria Group Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:MO opened at $58.97 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $62.99 and its 200 day simple moving average is $61.85. The company has a market cap of $98.98 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.41, a PEG ratio of 3.45 and a beta of 0.51. Altria Group, Inc. has a one year low of $50.08 and a one year high of $68.60.

Altria Group ( NYSE:MO Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $1.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.44 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $5.25 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.31 billion. Altria Group had a net margin of 37.24% and a negative return on equity of 295.26%. Altria Groups revenue for the quarter was down 3.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $1.38 earnings per share. Altria Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.370-5.45 EPS. Analysts predict that Altria Group, Inc. will post 5.32 earnings per share for the current year.

Altria Group declared that its Board of Directors has approved a share repurchase program on Thursday, October 30th that permits the company to repurchase $2.00 billion in outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization permits the company to buy up to 1.9% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are generally a sign that the companys board of directors believes its stock is undervalued.

Altria Group Increases Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 10th. Investors of record on Monday, September 15th were issued a dividend of $1.06 per share. This represents a $4.24 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 7.2%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, September 15th. This is a positive change from Altria Groups previous quarterly dividend of $1.02. Altria Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 80.92%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities research analysts have issued reports on the company. UBS Group lowered their price target on Altria Group from $68.00 to $61.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Bank of America lifted their price objective on Altria Group from $64.00 to $72.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, August 22nd. Morgan Stanley increased their target price on shares of Altria Group from $57.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group raised their price target on shares of Altria Group from $65.00 to $72.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, Barclays lifted their price target on shares of Altria Group from $49.00 to $57.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $62.33.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on MO

Altria Group Profile

(Free Report)

Altria Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells smokeable and oral tobacco products in the United States. The company offers cigarettes primarily under the Marlboro brand; large cigars and pipe tobacco under the Black & Mild brand; moist smokeless tobacco and snus products under the Copenhagen, Skoal, Red Seal, and Husky brands; oral nicotine pouches under the on! brand; and e-vapor products under the NJOY ACE brand.

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BigBear.ai, Tempus AI, SoundHound AI, Hut 8, and Informatica are the five Artificial Intelligence stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Artificial intelligence stocks are shares of companies whose core businesses involve developing, selling, or enabling AI technologies  including machinelearning software, data platforms, cloud AI services, and specialized hardware like AI chips. For investors, these stocks offer exposure to potentially high-growth, disruptive opportunities tied to AI adoption but often come with elevated volatility, technical and regulatory risks, and the need for careful due diligence and diversification. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Artificial Intelligence stocks within the last several days.

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BigBear.ai (BBAI)

BigBear.ai Holdings, Inc. provides artificial intelligence-powered decision intelligence solutions. It offers national security, supply chain management, and digital identity and biometrics solutions. The company also provides data ingestion, data enrichment, data processing, artificial intelligence, machine learning, predictive analytics, and predictive visualization solutions and services.

Tempus AI (TEM)

Tempus AI Inc. is a technology company advancing precision medicine through the practical application of artificial intelligence principally in healthcare. The company provides AI-enabled precision medicine solutions to physicians to deliver personalized patient care and in parallel facilitates discovery, development and delivery of optimal therapeutics.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TEM

SoundHound AI (SOUN)

SoundHound AI, Inc. develops independent voice artificial intelligence (AI) solutions that enables businesses across automotive, TV, and IoT, and to customer service industries to deliver high-quality conversational experiences to their customers. Its products include Houndify platform that offers a suite of Houndify tools to help brands build conversational voice assistants, such as Application Programming Interfaces (API) for text and voice queries, support for custom commands, extensive library of content domains, inclusive software development kit platforms, collaboration capabilities, diagnostic tools, and built-in analytics; SoundHound Chat AI that integrates with knowledge domains, pulling real-time data like weather, sports, stocks, flight status, and restaurants; and SoundHound Smart Answering is built to offer customer establishments custom AI-powered voice assistant.

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Hut 8 (HUT)

Hut 8 Corp., together with its subsidiaries, acquires, builds, manages, and operates data centers for digital assets mining, computing, and artificial intelligence in the United States. It operates in four segments: Digital Assets Mining, Managed Services, High Performance Computing Colocation and Cloud, and Other.

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Informatica (INFA)

Informatica Inc. develops an artificial intelligence-powered platform that connects, manages, and unifies data across multi-vendor, multi-cloud, and hybrid systems at enterprise scale worldwide. Its platform includes a suite of interoperable data management products, including data integration products to ingest, transform, and integrate data; API and application integration products that enable users to create and manage APIs and integration processes for app-to-app synchronization, business process orchestration, B2B partner management, application development, and API management; data quality and observability products to profile, cleanse, standardize, observe, and monitor data to deliver accurate, complete, and consistent data; and master data management products to create an authoritative single source of truth of business-critical data.

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Featured Articles
B&M European Value Retail S.A. (LON:BME  Get Free Report) insider Tjeerd Jegen bought 31,450 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 17th. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 158 per share, with a total value of 49,691.

Tjeerd Jegen also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Friday, November 14th, Tjeerd Jegen acquired 31,650 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The shares were bought at an average cost of GBX 161 per share, for a total transaction of 50,956.50.

On Wednesday, September 17th, Tjeerd Jegen bought 50,400 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of GBX 250 per share, with a total value of 126,000.

On Friday, September 12th, Tjeerd Jegen purchased 61,500 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The stock was bought at an average cost of GBX 242 per share, with a total value of 148,830.

On Tuesday, September 9th, Tjeerd Jegen purchased 79,500 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The shares were purchased at an average price of GBX 250 per share, for a total transaction of 198,750.

On Tuesday, September 2nd, Tjeerd Jegen bought 43,480 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The shares were acquired at an average price of GBX 228 per share, with a total value of 99,134.40.

On Wednesday, September 3rd, Tjeerd Jegen purchased 22,500 shares of B&M European Value Retail stock. The stock was purchased at an average price of GBX 231 per share, for a total transaction of 51,975.

B&M European Value Retail Stock Up 4.1%

B&M European Value Retail stock opened at GBX 163 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.06, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 315.77. B&M European Value Retail S.A. has a 12 month low of GBX 154 and a 12 month high of GBX 378.50. The firm has a market cap of 1.64 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.13 and a beta of 1.05. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 213.25 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 249.67.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

B&M European Value Retail ( LON:BME Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 13th. The company reported GBX 7.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. B&M European Value Retail had a net margin of 5.81% and a return on equity of 43.85%. Equities analysts predict that B&M European Value Retail S.A. will post 38.4814815 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of brokerages have commented on BME. Canaccord Genuity Group reduced their price target on B&M European Value Retail from GBX 395 to GBX 245 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. JPMorgan Chase & Co. dropped their price objective on B&M European Value Retail from GBX 207 to GBX 205 and set an underweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Jefferies Financial Group decreased their price target on shares of B&M European Value Retail from GBX 305 to GBX 265 and set a hold rating for the company in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Peel Hunt restated an add rating and issued a GBX 200 target price on shares of B&M European Value Retail in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reduced their price target on B&M European Value Retail from GBX 250 to GBX 235 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 291.11.

View Our Latest Report on BME

B&M European Value Retail Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

B&M European Value Retail SA operates general merchandise and grocery stores. The company operates a chain of stores under the B&M, Heron Foods, and B&M Express in the United Kingdom; and stores under the B&M brand in France. It also provides property management services. The company was founded in 1978 and is based in Munsbach, Luxembourg.

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BNP Paribas SA (OTCMKTS:BNPQY  Get Free Report) saw unusually-high trading volume on Wednesday . Approximately 1,463,637 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 342% from the previous sessions volume of 331,496 shares.The stock last traded at $38.6430 and had previously closed at $38.65.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have commented on BNPQY. Barclays cut shares of BNP Paribas from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating on shares of BNP Paribas in a report on Friday, October 10th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods downgraded BNP Paribas from a hold rating to a moderate sell rating in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Finally, DZ Bank cut BNP Paribas from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold.

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BNP Paribas Price Performance

The company has a 50 day moving average price of $42.59 and a 200 day moving average price of $44.14. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.78, a current ratio of 0.65 and a quick ratio of 0.65. The firm has a market cap of $86.48 billion, a PE ratio of 6.98, a PEG ratio of 0.67 and a beta of 1.05.

BNP Paribas (OTCMKTS:BNPQY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The financial services provider reported $1.53 EPS for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $1.53. BNP Paribas had a net margin of 22.74% and a return on equity of 8.65%. The company had revenue of $81.48 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.84 billion. Sell-side analysts expect that BNP Paribas SA will post 5.02 EPS for the current fiscal year.

BNP Paribas Cuts Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 29th. Investors of record on Friday, September 26th were given a $1.2622 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, September 25th. This represents a yield of 272.0%. BNP Paribass dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 56.22%.

About BNP Paribas

(Get Free Report)

BNP Paribas SA provides various banking and financial products and services in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. It operates through three divisions: Corporate & Institutional Banking; Commercial, Personal Banking & Services; and Investment & Protection Services.

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Buenaventura Mining (NYSE:BVN  Get Free Report) had its target price cut by investment analysts at Scotiabank from $27.50 to $27.00 in a research report issued on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has a sector perform rating on the mining companys stock. Scotiabanks price objective indicates a potential upside of 13.54% from the companys previous close.

Other research analysts have also recently issued research reports about the company. Zacks Research cut Buenaventura Mining from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Buenaventura Mining from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday, October 25th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Buenaventura Mining in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Buenaventura Mining has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $27.00.

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Buenaventura Mining Trading Up 3.0%

NYSE:BVN opened at $23.78 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.08 and a beta of 0.26. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.23, a current ratio of 2.54 and a quick ratio of 2.31. Buenaventura Mining has a one year low of $11.50 and a one year high of $26.97. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $23.03 and its 200 day simple moving average is $19.05.

Buenaventura Mining (NYSE:BVN  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The mining company reported $0.66 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.41 by $0.25. Buenaventura Mining had a net margin of 38.38% and a return on equity of 9.47%. The firm had revenue of $431.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $355.57 million. As a group, analysts forecast that Buenaventura Mining will post 1.13 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently bought and sold shares of the company. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd bought a new position in shares of Buenaventura Mining in the second quarter worth about $28,000. Raymond James Financial Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Buenaventura Mining in the 2nd quarter worth $32,000. Brooklyn Investment Group increased its stake in Buenaventura Mining by 1,363.9% during the first quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 1,947 shares of the mining companys stock worth $30,000 after acquiring an additional 1,814 shares during the last quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC acquired a new position in Buenaventura Mining in the 1st quarter worth about $37,000. Finally, Blue Trust Inc. increased its holdings in Buenaventura Mining by 18.8% in the 3rd quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 8,111 shares of the mining companys stock worth $197,000 after acquiring an additional 1,283 shares in the last quarter.

About Buenaventura Mining

(Get Free Report)

Compania de Minas Buenaventura SAA. engages in the exploration, development, construction, and operation of mineral processing business. The company explores for gold, silver, lead, zinc, and copper metals. It operates operating mining units, including Tambomayo located in the Caylloma province, Orcopampa Unit located in the province of Castilla, Uchucchacua located in province of Oyon, Julcani located in province of Angaraes, Peru, as well as San Gabrie located in the province of General Sanchez Cerro, in the Moquegua region.

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Shares of Buffalo Coal Corp. (CVE:BUF  Get Free Report) crossed below its fifty day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a fifty day moving average of C$0.01 and traded as low as C$0.01. Buffalo Coal shares last traded at C$0.01, with a volume of 26,000 shares trading hands.

Buffalo Coal Stock Performance

The companys fifty day moving average price is C$0.01 and its 200 day moving average price is C$0.01. The firm has a market capitalization of C$7.37 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -3.33 and a beta of 0.58.

About Buffalo Coal

(Get Free Report)

Buffalo Coal Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as a coal mining company in South Africa. It primarily focuses on the Aviemore anthracite mine covering an area of approximately 5,513 hectares and Magdalena mine covering an area of approximately 1,844 hectares located in the Kwa-Zulu, Natal Province of South Africa.

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Shares of Centrus Energy Corp. (NYSE:LEU  Get Free Report) traded up 7.2% during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The company traded as high as $266.99 and last traded at $263.8220. 856,072 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 26% from the average session volume of 1,157,066 shares. The stock had previously closed at $246.08.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Northland Securities set a $275.00 target price on shares of Centrus Energy in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. HC Wainwright reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $300.00 price objective on shares of Centrus Energy in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Evercore ISI increased their target price on Centrus Energy from $251.00 to $252.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. decreased their price target on Centrus Energy from $275.00 to $245.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Finally, Bank of America reiterated a neutral rating and set a $285.00 price objective (up from $210.00) on shares of Centrus Energy in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have issued a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $224.60.

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Centrus Energy Trading Up 6.1%

The company has a quick ratio of 2.46, a current ratio of 2.93 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.09. The company has a market cap of $4.75 billion, a P/E ratio of 59.68 and a beta of 1.56. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $320.48 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $224.81.

Centrus Energy (NYSE:LEU  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.19 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.36 by ($0.17). Centrus Energy had a return on equity of 84.09% and a net margin of 16.56%.During the same period last year, the business earned ($0.30) earnings per share. Centrus Energys revenue for the quarter was up 29.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, analysts predict that Centrus Energy Corp. will post 2.63 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of Centrus Energy

A number of institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of LEU. Farther Finance Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Centrus Energy by 15.1% in the third quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 327 shares of the companys stock valued at $101,000 after purchasing an additional 43 shares in the last quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC lifted its stake in Centrus Energy by 54.9% in the 3rd quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC now owns 127 shares of the companys stock valued at $39,000 after acquiring an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. Lido Advisors LLC boosted its position in Centrus Energy by 4.2% during the 3rd quarter. Lido Advisors LLC now owns 1,138 shares of the companys stock worth $353,000 after acquiring an additional 46 shares during the last quarter. ORG Partners LLC grew its stake in shares of Centrus Energy by 59.4% during the 3rd quarter. ORG Partners LLC now owns 169 shares of the companys stock worth $52,000 after acquiring an additional 63 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Xponance Inc. grew its stake in shares of Centrus Energy by 5.9% during the 3rd quarter. Xponance Inc. now owns 1,231 shares of the companys stock worth $382,000 after acquiring an additional 69 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 49.96% of the companys stock.

Centrus Energy Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Centrus Energy Corp. supplies nuclear fuel components and services for the nuclear power industry in the United States, Belgium, Japan, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Low-Enriched Uranium (LEU) and Technical Solutions. The LEU segment sells separative work units (SWU) components of LEU; natural uranium hexafluoride, uranium concentrates, and uranium conversion; and enriched uranium products to utilities that operate nuclear power plants.

Further Reading

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Cetera Investment Advisers raised its position in shares of Alerian MLP ETF (NYSEARCA:AMLP  Free Report) by 13.9% in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 404,772 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after acquiring an additional 49,527 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers holdings in Alerian MLP ETF were worth $19,777,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. Nova Wealth Management Inc. bought a new stake in Alerian MLP ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $28,000. Mid American Wealth Advisory Group Inc. acquired a new position in Alerian MLP ETF in the second quarter worth $29,000. Headlands Technologies LLC bought a new stake in shares of Alerian MLP ETF during the first quarter worth $31,000. Crews Bank & Trust acquired a new stake in shares of Alerian MLP ETF in the second quarter valued at $39,000. Finally, Independence Bank of Kentucky raised its holdings in shares of Alerian MLP ETF by 517.5% in the second quarter. Independence Bank of Kentucky now owns 988 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $48,000 after buying an additional 828 shares during the last quarter.

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Alerian MLP ETF Stock Up 0.5%

Shares of NYSEARCA AMLP opened at $46.79 on Wednesday. Alerian MLP ETF has a 12-month low of $43.75 and a 12-month high of $53.24. The firms 50-day simple moving average is $46.73 and its 200 day simple moving average is $47.95. The company has a market cap of $10.27 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 14.17 and a beta of 0.70.

Alerian MLP ETF Profile

ALERIAN MLP ETF seeks investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) to the price and yield performance of its underlying index, the Alerian MLP Infrastructure Index (the Index). The Index is a rules based, modified capitalization weighted, float adjusted index intended to give investors a means of tracking the overall performance of the United States energy infrastructure Master Limited Partnership (MLP) asset class.

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Chiba Bank Ltd. (OTCMKTS:CHBAY  Get Free Report)s share price gapped up prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $47.00, but opened at $52.61. Chiba Bank shares last traded at $52.61, with a volume of 417 shares.

Chiba Bank Stock Down 3.0%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.44, a quick ratio of 0.95 and a current ratio of 0.95. The stocks fifty day simple moving average is $48.97 and its 200-day simple moving average is $47.28. The stock has a market cap of $8.22 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.26 and a beta of 0.23.

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Chiba Bank (OTCMKTS:CHBAY  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 7th. The company reported $1.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.05 by $0.10. Chiba Bank had a return on equity of 6.59% and a net margin of 20.18%.The business had revenue of $709.21 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $369.05 million.

Chiba Bank Company Profile

The Chiba Bank, Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides banking products and services in Japan and internationally. The company offers various deposit products, including savings, time deposits, currency deposits, investment trusts, bonds, and pensions; loans, which include mortgages, renovation loans, photovoltaic, vehicle, education, and other loan products; and insurance products, such as annuity, life, medical, student, death, and travel insurance.

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Comptoir Group PLC (LON:COM  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as GBX 5.50 and last traded at GBX 5.50, with a volume of 6 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at GBX 5.25.

Comptoir Group Trading Up 4.8%

The stock has a market cap of 6.75 million, a P/E ratio of -23.91 and a beta of 0.95. The company has a current ratio of 0.67, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 275.63. The stocks fifty day moving average price is GBX 4.97 and its 200 day moving average price is GBX 4.13.

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Comptoir Group (LON:COM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, September 25th. The company reported GBX (0.07) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Comptoir Group had a negative net margin of 7.85% and a negative return on equity of 110.71%.

Comptoir Group Company Profile

Comptoir Group PLC owns and operates restaurants under the Comptoir Libanais and Shawa brand names in the United Kingdom. It offers Lebanese and Eastern Mediterranean cuisine dining. It operates restaurants that includes franchises. The company was formerly known as Levant Restaurants Group Limited and changed its name to Comptoir Group PLC in June 2016.

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Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. purchased a new stake in shares of Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. (NYSE:SSD  Free Report) in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor purchased 4,423 shares of the construction companys stock, valued at approximately $687,000.

Other hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC increased its stake in shares of Simpson Manufacturing by 2.5% during the first quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 2,965 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $466,000 after purchasing an additional 71 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC increased its position in Simpson Manufacturing by 39.1% during the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 331 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $52,000 after buying an additional 93 shares in the last quarter. First Hawaiian Bank raised its stake in Simpson Manufacturing by 7.2% during the first quarter. First Hawaiian Bank now owns 1,527 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $240,000 after buying an additional 102 shares during the last quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC boosted its holdings in Simpson Manufacturing by 2.2% in the first quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 7,182 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,128,000 after acquiring an additional 152 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Argent Trust Co grew its stake in shares of Simpson Manufacturing by 12.7% in the first quarter. Argent Trust Co now owns 1,551 shares of the construction companys stock worth $244,000 after acquiring an additional 175 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 93.68% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other Simpson Manufacturing news, EVP Michael Andersen sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 25th. The stock was sold at an average price of $196.13, for a total value of $196,130.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 7,810 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,531,775.30. This represents a 11.35% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Company insiders own 0.39% of the companys stock.

Simpson Manufacturing Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE SSD opened at $158.28 on Wednesday. The firms 50-day moving average price is $174.00 and its 200-day moving average price is $170.76. Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. has a 52-week low of $137.35 and a 52-week high of $197.82. The company has a market cap of $6.56 billion, a PE ratio of 19.28 and a beta of 1.27. The company has a quick ratio of 1.80, a current ratio of 3.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.17.

Simpson Manufacturing (NYSE:SSD  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The construction company reported $2.58 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.37 by $0.21. Simpson Manufacturing had a net margin of 14.90% and a return on equity of 18.11%. The company had revenue of $623.51 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $607.79 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $2.21 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 6.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts anticipate that Simpson Manufacturing Company, Inc. will post 8.29 EPS for the current year.

Simpson Manufacturing Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 22nd. Investors of record on Friday, January 2nd will be issued a $0.29 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 2nd. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. Simpson Manufacturings payout ratio is presently 14.13%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have recently issued reports on SSD. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Simpson Manufacturing in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Robert W. Baird lifted their target price on shares of Simpson Manufacturing from $190.00 to $212.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, DA Davidson reiterated a neutral rating and set a $190.00 price target on shares of Simpson Manufacturing in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Simpson Manufacturing presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $201.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on SSD

Simpson Manufacturing Company Profile

(Free Report)

Simpson Manufacturing Co, Inc, through its subsidiaries, designs, engineers, manufactures, and sells structural solutions for wood, concrete, and steel connections. The company offers wood construction products, including connectors, truss plates, fastening systems, fasteners and shearwalls, and pre-fabricated lateral systems for use in light-frame construction; and concrete construction products comprising adhesives, specialty chemicals, mechanical anchors, carbide drill bits, powder actuated tools, fiber-reinforced materials, and other repair products for use in concrete, masonry, and steel construction, as well as grouts, coatings, sealers, mortars, fiberglass and fiber-reinforced polymer systems, and asphalt products for use in concrete construction repair, and strengthening and protection products.

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NCR Voyix (NYSE:VYX  Get Free Report) and 1mage Software (OTCMKTS:ISOL  Get Free Report) are both computer and technology companies, but which is the superior investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, risk, dividends, valuation, analyst recommendations, earnings and institutional ownership.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for NCR Voyix and 1mage Software, as provided by MarketBeat.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score NCR Voyix 1 2 5 0 2.50 1mage Software 0 0 0 0 0.00

NCR Voyix currently has a consensus target price of $15.57, indicating a potential upside of 55.11%. Given NCR Voyixs stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities research analysts plainly believe NCR Voyix is more favorable than 1mage Software.

Earnings and Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio NCR Voyix $2.65 billion 0.52 $958.00 million ($0.44) -22.82 1mage Software N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

This table compares NCR Voyix and 1mage Softwares gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

NCR Voyix has higher revenue and earnings than 1mage Software.

Profitability

This table compares NCR Voyix and 1mage Softwares net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets NCR Voyix 38.86% -2.84% -0.60% 1mage Software N/A N/A N/A

Risk & Volatility

NCR Voyix has a beta of 1.7, indicating that its share price is 70% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, 1mage Software has a beta of 3.68, indicating that its share price is 268% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

97.0% of NCR Voyix shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.3% of NCR Voyix shares are owned by insiders. Comparatively, 52.8% of 1mage Software shares are owned by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Summary

NCR Voyix beats 1mage Software on 6 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About NCR Voyix

(Get Free Report)

NCR Voyix Corporation provides various software and services in the United States, the Americas, the Asia Pacific, Europe, the Middle East, and Africa. The company operates through three segments: Retail; Restaurants; and Digital Banking. It offers software, services, and hardware; and digital banking solutions for financial institutions consumer and business customers. The company provides solutions for banking channel services, transaction processing, imaging, and branch services. In addition, it offers solutions for retail industry comprising comprehensive API-point of sale (POS) retail software platforms and applications, hardware terminals and peripherals, payment processing solutions, and consumer engagement solutions, as well as self-service kiosks, which consists of self-checkout (SCO). Further, the company provides technology solutions to customers in the restaurant industry comprising table-service, quick-service, and fast casual restaurants. Additionally, it offers cloud-based and platform-enabled software applications for point-of-sale, back office, payment processing, kitchen production, restaurant management, eCommerce, mobile ordering, and consumer marketing and loyalty; and restaurant -oriented hardware products, such as POS terminals, kitchen display systems, handheld devices, printers, and peripherals. It also offers solutions for customer account opening and onboarding across digital, branch, and call center channels. The company serves grocery stores, drug stores, and box retailers; and quick service, table service and fast casual restaurants of all sizes, small-and-medium sized businesses to large multi-national, and enterprise clients. The company was formerly known as NCR Corporation and changed its name to NCR Voyix Corporation in October 2023. NCR Voyix Corporation was incorporated in 1884 and is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.

About 1mage Software

(Get Free Report)

1mage Software Inc operates in the technology industry. The company offers capturing services, including 1ACCESS, an java-based software application that utilizes the adobe PDF format, which could be printed, faxed, and emailed; application program interfaces consisting of executable subroutines; 1FAX, an software application that manages inbound/outbound fax transmissions and outbound emails; 1SCAN, a windows based software application; and 1ERM that provides simultaneous and multi-user access to indexed and archived computer-generated reports and customer-related documents. Its capturing services also include 1SCANSERV, which allow scanned documents from an MFP or a scanner to be transformed into image files; V1A, a document imaging software that allows viewing images; and Zoe, which gives access to other outside applications. The company also provides integrating services, such as application program interfaces; Zoe that gives access to other outside applications; ZoeFetch, an application bridge, which works with various applications; and Zoe XML Web services that allows users to seamlessly integrate with line of business application. In addition, it offers archiving services; and digital content management system that provides solutions for the scanning, indexing, storing, and retrieving of document images. Further, the company provides 1SEARCH that locate and retrieve documents/images, as well as Web services. Additionally, it offers exporting services, which include 1PUBLISH that enables users with specific security rights; and 1RENDITION, which automates the rendition billing process. The company is based in Centennial, Colorado.

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Copperleaf Capital LLC trimmed its stake in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:TFLO  Free Report) by 26.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 4,229 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,545 shares during the period. Copperleaf Capital LLCs holdings in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF were worth $214,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the stock. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC bought a new position in iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the first quarter worth about $26,000. Robbins Farley purchased a new position in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $30,000. Independence Bank of Kentucky bought a new position in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $30,000. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC raised its position in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF by 250.2% in the 2nd quarter. GPS Wealth Strategies Group LLC now owns 704 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 503 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group purchased a new position in shares of iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $39,000.

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iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF Stock Performance

NYSEARCA TFLO opened at $50.53 on Wednesday. The stocks 50 day moving average is $50.51 and its 200 day moving average is $50.54. iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $50.36 and a twelve month high of $50.69.

About iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF

The iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF (TFLO) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The iShares Treasury Floating Rate Bond ETF seeks to track the investment results of an index composed of U.S. Treasury floating rate bonds. TFLO was launched on Feb 3, 2014 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Farmers & Merchants Bancorp (OTCMKTS:FMCB  Get Free Report) and Cullen/Frost Bankers (NYSE:CFR  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their profitability, institutional ownership, analyst recommendations, dividends, risk, earnings and valuation.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Farmers & Merchants Bancorp and Cullen/Frost Bankerss top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Farmers & Merchants Bancorp $292.68 million 2.55 $88.46 million $130.83 7.91 Cullen/Frost Bankers $2.19 billion 3.52 $582.54 million $9.72 12.41

Volatility and Risk

Cullen/Frost Bankers has higher revenue and earnings than Farmers & Merchants Bancorp. Farmers & Merchants Bancorp is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Cullen/Frost Bankers, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Farmers & Merchants Bancorp has a beta of 0.23, meaning that its stock price is 77% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Cullen/Frost Bankers has a beta of 0.74, meaning that its stock price is 26% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for Farmers & Merchants Bancorp and Cullen/Frost Bankers, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Farmers & Merchants Bancorp 0 0 0 0 0.00 Cullen/Frost Bankers 3 9 1 1 2.00

Cullen/Frost Bankers has a consensus price target of $136.75, suggesting a potential upside of 13.36%. Given Cullen/Frost Bankers stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Cullen/Frost Bankers is more favorable than Farmers & Merchants Bancorp.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

5.6% of Farmers & Merchants Bancorp shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 86.9% of Cullen/Frost Bankers shares are held by institutional investors. 8.0% of Farmers & Merchants Bancorp shares are held by company insiders. Comparatively, 2.9% of Cullen/Frost Bankers shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Profitability

This table compares Farmers & Merchants Bancorp and Cullen/Frost Bankers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Farmers & Merchants Bancorp 30.89% 15.32% 1.66% Cullen/Frost Bankers 21.20% 15.46% 1.18%

Dividends

Farmers & Merchants Bancorp pays an annual dividend of $20.20 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.0%. Cullen/Frost Bankers pays an annual dividend of $4.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.3%. Farmers & Merchants Bancorp pays out 15.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Cullen/Frost Bankers pays out 41.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. Cullen/Frost Bankers has raised its dividend for 32 consecutive years. Cullen/Frost Bankers is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Summary

Cullen/Frost Bankers beats Farmers & Merchants Bancorp on 13 of the 18 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Farmers & Merchants Bancorp

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Farmers & Merchants Bancorp operates as the bank holding company for Farmers & Merchants Bank of Central California that provides various banking services to businesses and individuals. The company accepts various deposit products, including checking, savings, money market, time certificates of deposit, and individual retirement accounts. It also offers range of lending products comprising commercial and residential real estate, real estate construction, agribusiness, and consumer loans, as well as equipment leases and credit card services; commercial products, including term loans, lines of credit and other working capital financing, and letters of credit; and financing products, such as automobile financing, home improvement, and home equity lines of credit. In addition, the company provides various specialized services consisting of credit card programs for merchants, lockbox and other collection services, account reconciliation, investment sweep, online account access, and electronic funds transfers through domestic and international wire and automated clearinghouse; online banking services; and investment products, such as mutual funds and annuities. The company was founded in 1916 and is headquartered in Lodi, California.

About Cullen/Frost Bankers

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Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Frost Bank that provides commercial and consumer banking services in Texas. The company offers commercial banking services to corporations, including financing for industrial and commercial properties, interim construction related to industrial and commercial properties, equipment, inventories and accounts receivables, and acquisitions; and treasury management services, as well as originates commercial leasing services. It also provides consumer banking services, such as checking accounts, savings programs, automated-teller machines (ATMs), overdraft facilities, installment and real estate loans, first mortgage loans, home equity loans and lines of credit, drive-in and night deposit services, safe deposit facilities, and brokerage services. In addition, the company offers international banking services comprising deposits, loans, letters of credit, foreign collections, funds transmitting, and foreign exchange services; correspondent banking activities, including check clearing, transfer of funds, fixed income security services, and securities custody and clearance services. Further, it offers trust, investment, agency, and custodial services for individual and corporate clients; capital market services that include sales and trading, new issue underwriting, money market trading, advisory, and securities safekeeping and clearance; and support for international business activities, including foreign exchange, letters of credit, export-import financing, and other related activities. Additionally, the company offers insurance and securities brokerage services; holding of securities for investment purposes; and investment management services for mutual funds, institutions, and individuals. It serves energy, manufacturing, services, construction, retail, telecommunications, healthcare, military, and transportation industries. The company was founded in 1868 and is headquartered in San Antonio, Texas.

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Shares of Daimler Truck Holding AG  Sponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:DTRUY  Get Free Report) saw an uptick in trading volume on Wednesday . 410,166 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 1,166% from the previous sessions volume of 32,391 shares.The stock last traded at $20.77 and had previously closed at $20.14.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities research analysts recently commented on DTRUY shares. Zacks Research cut Daimler Truck from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Royal Bank Of Canada restated an outperform rating on shares of Daimler Truck in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold.

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Daimler Truck Stock Up 3.5%

About Daimler Truck

The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $20.77 and a 200-day simple moving average of $22.18.

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Daimler Truck Holding AG manufactures and sells commercial trucks. The company was founded in 2021 and is based in Stuttgart, Germany.

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Danone (OTCMKTS:DANOY  Get Free Report) has earned an average rating of Hold from the six ratings firms that are presently covering the company, Marketbeat reports. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation and two have assigned a buy recommendation to the company.

A number of analysts have recently commented on DANOY shares. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating on shares of Danone in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Jefferies Financial Group upgraded shares of Danone from an underperform rating to a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 16th. Citigroup restated a neutral rating on shares of Danone in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Wall Street Zen cut shares of Danone from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 15th. Finally, Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating on shares of Danone in a research note on Friday, October 10th.

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Danone Trading Down 0.2%

Danone Company Profile

OTCMKTS DANOY opened at $18.13 on Friday. Danone has a 12 month low of $13.02 and a 12 month high of $18.63. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $17.71 and its 200 day simple moving average is $16.98. The company has a current ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.66.

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Danone SA operates in the food and beverage industry in Europe, Ukraine, North America, China, North Asia, the Oceania, Latin America, rest of Asia, Africa, Turkey, the Middle East, and the Commonwealth of Independent States. The company operates through Essential Dairy & Plant-Based, Specialized Nutrition, and Waters segments.

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Dorsey Wright & Associates bought a new position in shares of Primerica, Inc. (NYSE:PRI  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor bought 13,243 shares of the financial services providers stock, valued at approximately $3,624,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Hilltop National Bank acquired a new position in shares of Primerica during the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Cullen Frost Bankers Inc. bought a new position in Primerica during the second quarter valued at about $33,000. First Horizon Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in Primerica by 1,714.3% during the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 127 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $35,000 after acquiring an additional 120 shares during the period. AdvisorNet Financial Inc raised its position in Primerica by 108.5% in the second quarter. AdvisorNet Financial Inc now owns 148 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 77 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Headlands Technologies LLC lifted its holdings in Primerica by 2,300.0% in the 1st quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC now owns 168 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $48,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares during the last quarter. 90.88% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Primerica

In related news, CEO Glenn J. Williams sold 2,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $259.65, for a total transaction of $649,125.00. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer directly owned 33,892 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,800,057.80. The trade was a 6.87% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, President Peter W. Schneider sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $255.30, for a total value of $510,600.00. Following the sale, the president owned 7,301 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,863,945.30. The trade was a 21.50% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 0.61% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group lowered their price objective on shares of Primerica from $293.00 to $283.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 11th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Primerica from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods dropped their price target on Primerica from $320.00 to $315.00 and set a market perform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Primerica in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley decreased their target price on Primerica from $306.00 to $301.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Monday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating and four have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $309.00.

View Our Latest Analysis on PRI

Primerica Price Performance

PRI stock opened at $258.37 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $8.25 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.87 and a beta of 0.96. Primerica, Inc. has a 52-week low of $230.98 and a 52-week high of $307.91. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $266.65 and its 200-day simple moving average is $267.06.

Primerica (NYSE:PRI  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The financial services provider reported $6.33 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $5.52 by $0.81. Primerica had a net margin of 22.36% and a return on equity of 31.75%. The firm had revenue of $838.88 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $817.81 million. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $4.83 EPS. The companys revenue was up 8.5% on a year-over-year basis. Sell-side analysts predict that Primerica, Inc. will post 20.6 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Primerica Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 21st will be issued a dividend of $1.04 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 21st. This represents a $4.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. Primericas payout ratio is currently 19.12%.

Primerica Company Profile

(Free Report)

Primerica, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial products and services to middle-income households in the United States and Canada. The company operates in four segments: Term Life Insurance; Investment and Savings Products; Senior Health; and Corporate and Other Distributed Products.

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KBC Group NV reduced its holdings in EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP  Free Report) by 26.7% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,508 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 550 shares during the quarter. KBC Group NVs holdings in EastGroup Properties were worth $252,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of EGP. Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in EastGroup Properties during the first quarter worth about $190,456,000. Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC boosted its stake in EastGroup Properties by 1,058.6% in the first quarter. Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC now owns 621,303 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $109,443,000 after acquiring an additional 567,678 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD grew its holdings in shares of EastGroup Properties by 35.1% during the first quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,318,090 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $232,184,000 after purchasing an additional 342,620 shares during the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC raised its position in shares of EastGroup Properties by 176.4% during the 1st quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 493,144 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $86,867,000 after purchasing an additional 314,738 shares during the period. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH acquired a new stake in shares of EastGroup Properties during the 1st quarter worth approximately $52,065,000. 92.14% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other EastGroup Properties news, EVP Richard Reid Dunbar sold 2,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $175.00, for a total value of $350,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 20,630 shares in the company, valued at $3,610,250. This represents a 8.84% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

EastGroup Properties Price Performance

Shares of EGP opened at $179.93 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $9.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.80, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 1.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a quick ratio of 0.01 and a current ratio of 0.01. EastGroup Properties, Inc. has a one year low of $137.67 and a one year high of $188.89. The stocks fifty day moving average is $172.97 and its 200-day moving average is $169.39.

EastGroup Properties (NYSE:EGP  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $2.27 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.28 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $182.14 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $181.88 million. EastGroup Properties had a return on equity of 7.28% and a net margin of 35.58%.The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.13 EPS. EastGroup Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.940-8.980 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 2.300-2.340 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that EastGroup Properties, Inc. will post 8.94 EPS for the current year.

EastGroup Properties Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were issued a dividend of $1.55 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. This is a positive change from EastGroup Propertiess previous quarterly dividend of $1.40. This represents a $6.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.4%. EastGroup Propertiess dividend payout ratio is presently 130.25%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts recently commented on EGP shares. Cantor Fitzgerald upped their price objective on EastGroup Properties from $190.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of EastGroup Properties from $170.00 to $178.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 9th. BNP Paribas upgraded shares of EastGroup Properties from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $207.00 price target for the company in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of EastGroup Properties from $187.00 to $196.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Robert W. Baird boosted their target price on shares of EastGroup Properties from $190.00 to $196.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, EastGroup Properties presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $190.80.

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EastGroup Properties Profile

(Free Report)

EastGroup Properties, Inc (NYSE: EGP), a member of the S&P Mid-Cap 400 and Russell 1000 Indexes, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina.

Further Reading

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Empirical Finance LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 0.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 27,659 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 182 shares during the quarter. Eli Lilly and Company makes up 1.1% of Empirical Finance LLCs portfolio, making the stock its 12th largest holding. Empirical Finance LLCs holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $21,561,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the business. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 97.5% during the first quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 101,305,650 shares of the companys stock valued at $83,669,349,000 after purchasing an additional 50,002,551 shares during the last quarter. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter worth approximately $4,613,912,000. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in Eli Lilly and Company by 6.7% during the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 79,224,392 shares of the companys stock valued at $65,432,218,000 after purchasing an additional 4,975,395 shares during the period. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. grew its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 106.8% during the 2nd quarter. Assenagon Asset Management S.A. now owns 1,481,031 shares of the companys stock worth $1,154,508,000 after buying an additional 765,010 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its stake in Eli Lilly and Company by 13.3% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,821,993 shares of the companys stock worth $4,808,443,000 after buying an additional 682,203 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have issued reports on LLY. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated an outperform rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Scotiabank assumed coverage on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Thursday, November 13th. They issued a sector outperform rating and a $1,165.00 price objective on the stock. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Eli Lilly and Company from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. Morgan Stanley upped their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $1,090.00 to $1,171.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price target on Eli Lilly and Company from $876.00 to $879.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have assigned a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $1,020.37.

Eli Lilly and Company Stock Up 0.9%

Eli Lilly and Company stock opened at $1,030.49 on Wednesday. Eli Lilly and Company has a 52 week low of $623.78 and a 52 week high of $1,040.72. The stock has a market cap of $974.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 67.35, a PEG ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. The companys 50-day moving average price is $838.20 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $782.36. The company has a current ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.42 by $0.60. Eli Lilly and Company had a net margin of 25.91% and a return on equity of 92.72%. The business had revenue of $17.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.09 billion. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.18 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 53.9% on a year-over-year basis. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2025 guidance at 23.000-23.700 EPS. On average, analysts expect that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $1.50 dividend. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.6%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is currently 29.35%.

Eli Lilly and Company Company Profile

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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EMC Capital Management purchased a new position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. (NYSE:BLX  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund purchased 6,773 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $273,000.

Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. LSV Asset Management increased its stake in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior by 2.4% during the 2nd quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 1,213,835 shares of the banks stock valued at $48,918,000 after purchasing an additional 28,375 shares in the last quarter. Ramirez Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior by 20.3% during the second quarter. Ramirez Asset Management Inc. now owns 35,718 shares of the banks stock valued at $1,439,000 after buying an additional 6,020 shares during the last quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. increased its position in shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior by 21.9% during the second quarter. SBI Securities Co. Ltd. now owns 3,485 shares of the banks stock valued at $140,000 after acquiring an additional 626 shares in the last quarter. Finally, PNC Financial Services Group Inc. purchased a new position in Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $25,000. 19.47% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently issued reports on BLX. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (a-) rating on shares of Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Wall Street Zen cut Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Strong Buy.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior Trading Down 0.1%

NYSE:BLX opened at $43.87 on Wednesday. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. has a 12 month low of $31.14 and a 12 month high of $48.38. The company has a market cap of $1.63 billion, a PE ratio of 7.30 and a beta of 0.90. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $45.32 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $43.37.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior (NYSE:BLX  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The bank reported $1.48 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $82.78 million for the quarter. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior had a return on equity of 16.18% and a net margin of 26.58%. Research analysts forecast that Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S.A. will post 4.6 earnings per share for the current year.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, November 25th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 10th will be given a $0.625 dividend. This represents a $2.50 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 10th. Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exteriors dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 41.60%.

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior Company Profile

(Free Report)

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior, S. A., a multinational bank, primarily engages in the financing of foreign trade in Latin America and the Caribbean. The company operates in two segments, Commercial and Treasury. It offers bilateral loans; structured loans including syndicated and clubbed, such as acquisition and pre-export financing, A/B loan financing, bridge loans, and liability management; and project financing.

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Enersys (NYSE:ENS  Get Free Report) has been assigned an average rating of Buy from the five ratings firms that are presently covering the stock, MarketBeat.com reports. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a buy recommendation and one has given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 1-year target price among brokers that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $126.00.

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Oppenheimer restated an outperform rating on shares of Enersys in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Enersys from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Enersys from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Roth Capital reissued a buy rating and set a $120.00 target price on shares of Enersys in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Enersys in a report on Thursday, October 30th.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On Enersys

Enersys Stock Performance

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Root Financial Partners LLC acquired a new stake in Enersys in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $25,000. BNP PARIBAS ASSET MANAGEMENT Holding S.A. acquired a new stake in shares of Enersys during the second quarter worth $28,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd grew its holdings in shares of Enersys by 2,500.0% during the first quarter. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd now owns 338 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $31,000 after buying an additional 325 shares during the last quarter. Gen Wealth Partners Inc acquired a new position in shares of Enersys in the 1st quarter valued at $36,000. Finally, Optiver Holding B.V. purchased a new position in Enersys in the 3rd quarter worth $47,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.93% of the companys stock.

Enersys stock opened at $135.17 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 3.00 and a quick ratio of 1.91. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.99 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.43, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 1.13. Enersys has a 1-year low of $76.57 and a 1-year high of $141.00. The companys 50-day moving average is $119.48 and its 200 day moving average is $101.70.

Enersys (NYSE:ENS  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The industrial products company reported $2.56 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.36 by $0.20. Enersys had a return on equity of 21.99% and a net margin of 9.60%.The firm had revenue of $951.30 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $890.27 million. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.12 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 7.6% on a year-over-year basis. Enersys has set its Q3 2026 guidance at 2.710-2.81 EPS. Research analysts forecast that Enersys will post 9.99 EPS for the current year.

Enersys Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 26th. Investors of record on Friday, December 12th will be given a dividend of $0.2625 per share. This represents a $1.05 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 12th. Enersyss dividend payout ratio is currently 12.28%.

About Enersys

(Get Free Report)

EnerSys engages in the provision of stored energy solutions for industrial applications worldwide. It operates in four segments: Energy Systems, Motive Power, Specialty, and New Ventures. The Energy Systems segment offers uninterruptible power systems (UPS) applications for computer and computer-controlled systems, as well as telecommunications systems; switchgear and electrical control systems used in industrial facilities and electric utilities, large-scale energy storage, and energy pipelines; integrated power solutions and services to broadband, telecom, data center, and renewable and industrial customers; and thermally managed cabinets and enclosures for electronic equipment and batteries.

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Erste Group Bank AG (OTCMKTS:EBKDY  Get Free Report) shares gapped up prior to trading on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $50.74, but opened at $52.66. Erste Group Bank shares last traded at $52.1956, with a volume of 2,198 shares traded.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently weighed in on the company. Oddo Bhf downgraded Erste Group Bank to a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating on shares of Erste Group Bank in a report on Wednesday, November 5th. Morgan Stanley reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Erste Group Bank in a research note on Tuesday, September 2nd. Cfra Research upgraded shares of Erste Group Bank to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Finally, Zacks Research raised shares of Erste Group Bank to a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 11th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, Erste Group Bank currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

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Erste Group Bank Price Performance

The stocks 50-day moving average is $49.91 and its two-hundred day moving average is $46.03. The company has a market cap of $42.62 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.82, a P/E/G ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 1.08.

Erste Group Bank (OTCMKTS:EBKDY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $1.29 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.10 by $0.19. The business had revenue of $3.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $3.30 billion. Erste Group Bank had a net margin of 16.96% and a return on equity of 10.08%. On average, analysts predict that Erste Group Bank AG will post 4.05 EPS for the current year.

About Erste Group Bank

(Get Free Report)

Erste Group Bank AG provides a range of banking and other financial services to retail, corporate, and public sector customers. The company operates through Retail, Corporates, Group Markets, Asset/Liability Management & Local Corporate Center, Savings Banks, and Group Corporate Center segments. It provides mortgage and consumer loans, investment products, current accounts, savings products, and credit cards, as well as cross selling products, such as leasing, insurance, and building society products.

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FineMark National Bank & Trust cut its stake in shares of Trane Technologies plc (NYSE:TT  Free Report) by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 52,972 shares of the companys stock after selling 151 shares during the quarter. Trane Technologies comprises approximately 0.8% of FineMark National Bank & Trusts investment portfolio, making the stock its 28th largest holding. FineMark National Bank & Trusts holdings in Trane Technologies were worth $23,170,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Ameriflex Group Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Trane Technologies in the second quarter worth approximately $28,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. raised its holdings in Trane Technologies by 1,016.7% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 67 shares of the companys stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 61 shares during the last quarter. Saudi Central Bank acquired a new position in shares of Trane Technologies in the 1st quarter worth approximately $30,000. Dagco Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Trane Technologies in the 1st quarter valued at $37,000. Finally, CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC increased its position in shares of Trane Technologies by 23.4% during the first quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 137 shares of the companys stock worth $46,000 after buying an additional 26 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.97% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on TT shares. Hsbc Global Res lowered shares of Trane Technologies from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Barclays boosted their price objective on Trane Technologies from $485.00 to $495.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Trane Technologies in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Northcoast Research lowered Trane Technologies from a buy rating to a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Bank of America upgraded Trane Technologies from a neutral rating to a buy rating and increased their price target for the stock from $490.00 to $550.00 in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $472.07.

Trane Technologies Stock Down 1.6%

Shares of NYSE:TT opened at $407.26 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a quick ratio of 0.76 and a current ratio of 1.10. Trane Technologies plc has a 52-week low of $298.15 and a 52-week high of $476.18. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $419.74 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $425.79. The firm has a market cap of $90.30 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.30, a PEG ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 1.16.

Trane Technologies (NYSE:TT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $3.88 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.80 by $0.08. Trane Technologies had a return on equity of 36.61% and a net margin of 13.76%.The firm had revenue of $5.74 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.80 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $3.37 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 5.5% on a year-over-year basis. Trane Technologies has set its FY 2025 guidance at 12.950-13.050 EPS. As a group, research analysts forecast that Trane Technologies plc will post 12.83 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Trane Technologies Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be issued a dividend of $0.94 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $3.76 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.9%. Trane Technologiess dividend payout ratio is presently 28.92%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, CAO Elizabeth A. Elwell sold 600 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $440.00, for a total value of $264,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 7,148 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,145,120. This trade represents a 7.74% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CEO David S. Regnery sold 22,497 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $410.00, for a total value of $9,223,770.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 123,713 shares of the companys stock, valued at $50,722,330. This represents a 15.39% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. 0.14% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Trane Technologies Profile

(Free Report)

Trane Technologies plc, together with its subsidiaries, designs, manufactures, sells, and services of solutions for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, custom, and custom and transport refrigeration in Ireland and internationally. It offers air conditioners, exchangers, and handlers; airside and terminal devices; air sourced heat pumps, auxiliary power units; chillers; coils and condensers; gensets; dehumidifiers; ductless; furnaces; home automation products; humidifiers; indoor air quality assessments and related products; large and light commercial unitary products; refrigerant reclamation products; thermostats/controls; transport heater products; variable refrigerant flow products; and water source heat pumps.

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Foundations Investment Advisors LLC grew its holdings in shares of General Dynamics Corporation (NYSE:GD  Free Report) by 7.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 2,711 shares of the aerospace companys stock after acquiring an additional 182 shares during the period. Foundations Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in General Dynamics were worth $791,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Quarry LP grew its stake in General Dynamics by 783.3% during the 1st quarter. Quarry LP now owns 106 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 94 shares in the last quarter. Nova Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new position in shares of General Dynamics in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $33,000. NewSquare Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of General Dynamics by 64.7% during the 2nd quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 112 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $33,000 after buying an additional 44 shares during the last quarter. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of General Dynamics during the second quarter worth approximately $35,000. Finally, Access Investment Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of General Dynamics during the second quarter worth approximately $35,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.14% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity at General Dynamics

In other news, Director Mark Malcolm sold 3,220 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $329.45, for a total transaction of $1,060,829.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 10,186 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,355,777.70. The trade was a 24.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, VP Christopher J. Brady sold 8,150 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, August 25th. The shares were sold at an average price of $321.18, for a total value of $2,617,617.00. Following the completion of the sale, the vice president owned 22,818 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,328,685.24. This represents a 26.32% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 12,580 shares of company stock valued at $4,064,484. Insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

General Dynamics Stock Performance

Shares of GD opened at $341.37 on Wednesday. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $337.69 and a 200-day moving average of $311.06. The company has a market cap of $92.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.12, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.05 and a beta of 0.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 1.40. General Dynamics Corporation has a 1 year low of $239.20 and a 1 year high of $360.50.

General Dynamics (NYSE:GD  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 24th. The aerospace company reported $3.88 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.69 by $0.19. The firm had revenue of $12.91 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $12.49 billion. General Dynamics had a net margin of 8.18% and a return on equity of 18.27%. General Dynamicss quarterly revenue was up 10.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the firm posted $3.35 EPS. General Dynamics has set its FY 2025 guidance at 15.300-15.35 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that General Dynamics Corporation will post 14.83 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research analysts have commented on GD shares. Sanford C. Bernstein increased their price objective on shares of General Dynamics from $335.00 to $388.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating and issued a $400.00 target price on shares of General Dynamics in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Bank of America increased their price target on shares of General Dynamics from $370.00 to $400.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of General Dynamics in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley set a $385.00 price objective on General Dynamics in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have assigned a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, General Dynamics currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $353.85.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on GD

General Dynamics Company Profile

(Free Report)

General Dynamics Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense company worldwide. It operates through four segments: Aerospace, Marine Systems, Combat Systems, and Technologies. The Aerospace segment produces and sells business jets; and offers aircraft maintenance and repair, management, aircraft-on-ground support and completion, charter, staffing, and fixed-base operator services.

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Foundations Investment Advisors LLC cut its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 6.8% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 15,634 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 1,147 shares during the quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLCs holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $724,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. New England Asset Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 0.8% during the first quarter. New England Asset Management Inc. now owns 39,476 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,408,000 after purchasing an additional 305 shares in the last quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC grew its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Commonwealth Equity Services LLC now owns 1,288,407 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $78,580,000 after buying an additional 13,959 shares during the last quarter. Commonwealth Retirement Investments LLC increased its position in Bristol Myers Squibb by 24.6% during the 2nd quarter. Commonwealth Retirement Investments LLC now owns 59,183 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $2,740,000 after buying an additional 11,690 shares in the last quarter. Sage Capital Advisors llc raised its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 60.7% in the second quarter. Sage Capital Advisors llc now owns 85,234 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $3,946,000 after buying an additional 32,181 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Sound View Wealth Advisors Group LLC boosted its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 438.0% in the second quarter. Sound View Wealth Advisors Group LLC now owns 307,849 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $14,250,000 after acquiring an additional 250,624 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have recently issued reports on BMY shares. BMO Capital Markets restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Monday. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Dbs Bank upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Thursday, November 13th. They set a sector perform rating and a $45.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein restated a market perform rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fifteen have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $54.42.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of Bristol Myers Squibb stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total transaction of $2,650,480.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 167,379 shares in the company, valued at approximately $7,922,048.07. This trade represents a 25.07% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Bristol Myers Squibb Stock Up 0.6%

NYSE:BMY opened at $47.09 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 1.11. The companys fifty day moving average price is $45.34 and its 200-day moving average price is $46.61. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 1-year low of $42.52 and a 1-year high of $63.33. The firm has a market capitalization of $95.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.99, a PEG ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $12.22 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 2.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the firm posted $1.80 earnings per share. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 EPS for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Investors of record on Friday, October 3rd were issued a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 83.78%.

Bristol Myers Squibb Company Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of General Mills, Inc. (NYSE:GIS  Free Report) by 111.3% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The fund owned 17,453 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 9,192 shares during the quarter. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLCs holdings in General Mills were worth $904,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC increased its position in shares of General Mills by 32.4% during the 1st quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 42,992 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,570,000 after purchasing an additional 10,529 shares during the last quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. grew its position in General Mills by 98.0% during the first quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 21,493 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,285,000 after buying an additional 10,640 shares during the period. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky increased its holdings in General Mills by 4.1% during the first quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 42,895 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,564,000 after buying an additional 1,693 shares during the last quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS raised its position in General Mills by 3.3% in the first quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 607,718 shares of the companys stock worth $36,335,000 after acquiring an additional 19,400 shares during the period. Finally, M. Kulyk & Associates LLC boosted its stake in shares of General Mills by 9.3% during the 1st quarter. M. Kulyk & Associates LLC now owns 83,477 shares of the companys stock worth $4,991,000 after acquiring an additional 7,071 shares during the last quarter. 75.71% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on GIS shares. Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price objective on General Mills from $51.00 to $50.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a research note on Monday, September 8th. Morgan Stanley cut their price target on General Mills from $49.00 to $48.00 and set an underweight rating for the company in a report on Monday, September 15th. HSBC decreased their price objective on General Mills from $59.00 to $57.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. Mizuho cut their price objective on General Mills from $57.00 to $52.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research note on Friday, September 19th. Finally, UBS Group reduced their target price on shares of General Mills from $49.00 to $47.00 and set a sell rating for the company in a report on Thursday, September 18th. Four investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, thirteen have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $55.82.

General Mills Stock Performance

NYSE:GIS opened at $47.74 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $48.62 and a 200 day moving average price of $50.68. The stock has a market capitalization of $25.47 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.03, a P/E/G ratio of 1.17 and a beta of -0.04. General Mills, Inc. has a 12-month low of $45.80 and a 12-month high of $67.40. The company has a current ratio of 0.66, a quick ratio of 0.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.28.

General Mills (NYSE:GIS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, September 17th. The company reported $0.86 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.82 by $0.04. General Mills had a return on equity of 23.46% and a net margin of 15.24%.The company had revenue of $4.52 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.52 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the firm earned $1.07 EPS. The firms revenue was down 6.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts forecast that General Mills, Inc. will post 4.36 EPS for the current fiscal year.

General Mills Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, February 2nd. Investors of record on Friday, January 9th will be paid a dividend of $0.61 per share. This represents a $2.44 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 9th. General Millss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 46.12%.

Insider Transactions at General Mills

In other General Mills news, insider Jacqueline Williams-Roll sold 4,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, September 19th. The shares were sold at an average price of $50.04, for a total value of $200,160.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 66,593 shares in the company, valued at $3,332,313.72. The trade was a 5.67% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 0.30% of the companys stock.

About General Mills

(Free Report)

General Mills, Inc manufactures and markets branded consumer foods worldwide. The company operates through four segments: North America Retail; International; Pet; and North America Foodservice. It offers grain, ready-to-eat cereals, refrigerated yogurt, soup, meal kits, refrigerated and frozen dough products, dessert and baking mixes, bakery flour, frozen pizza and pizza snacks, snack bars, fruit and savory snacks, ice cream and frozen desserts, unbaked and fully baked frozen dough products, frozen hot snacks, ethnic meals, side dish mixes, frozen breakfast and entrees, nutrition bars, and frozen and shelf-stable vegetables.

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Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy Corporation (NYSE:OGE  Free Report) by 0.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 3,555,290 shares of the utilities providers stock after purchasing an additional 26,569 shares during the quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC owned about 1.77% of OGE Energy worth $157,824,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in OGE. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of OGE Energy by 5.9% in the first quarter. T. Rowe Price Investment Management Inc. now owns 6,538,826 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $300,525,000 after buying an additional 364,268 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners grew its position in shares of OGE Energy by 15.7% in the 2nd quarter. Boston Partners now owns 6,248,222 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $277,388,000 after acquiring an additional 846,365 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp raised its holdings in shares of OGE Energy by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 3,573,926 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $164,258,000 after purchasing an additional 11,912 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP raised its holdings in shares of OGE Energy by 6.0% in the 1st quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 2,438,764 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $112,081,000 after purchasing an additional 137,857 shares during the period. Finally, Invesco Ltd. lifted its stake in OGE Energy by 20.4% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 1,673,459 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $76,912,000 after purchasing an additional 283,281 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 71.84% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have weighed in on the company. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of OGE Energy in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group increased their price target on OGE Energy from $46.00 to $47.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price objective on shares of OGE Energy from $52.00 to $55.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Royal Bank Of Canada upgraded shares of OGE Energy to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Barclays raised their target price on shares of OGE Energy from $47.00 to $51.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $48.75.

OGE Energy Stock Performance

OGE opened at $44.05 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.16, a current ratio of 0.78 and a quick ratio of 0.48. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $45.22 and a 200 day simple moving average of $44.76. OGE Energy Corporation has a 1 year low of $39.41 and a 1 year high of $47.33. The company has a market capitalization of $8.87 billion, a PE ratio of 17.69, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.08 and a beta of 0.60.

OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The utilities provider reported $1.14 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.16 by ($0.02). The firm had revenue of $1.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.04 billion. OGE Energy had a return on equity of 10.86% and a net margin of 15.28%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 8.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business posted $1.09 EPS. Research analysts expect that OGE Energy Corporation will post 2.27 EPS for the current year.

OGE Energy Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 6th were issued a $0.425 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, October 6th. This represents a $1.70 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.9%. This is an increase from OGE Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. OGE Energys payout ratio is presently 68.27%.

OGE Energy Profile

(Free Report)

OGE Energy Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy services provider in the United States. The company generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric energy. In addition, it provides retail electric service to approximately 896,000 customers, which covers a service area of approximately 30,000 square miles in Oklahoma and western Arkansas; and owns and operates coal-fired, natural gas-fired, wind-powered, and solar-powered generating assets.

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Geode Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in National Fuel Gas Company (NYSE:NFG  Free Report) by 0.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 1,693,980 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after purchasing an additional 4,995 shares during the quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC owned about 1.87% of National Fuel Gas worth $143,531,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Assetmark Inc. grew its holdings in National Fuel Gas by 9,475.0% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 383 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $30,000 after buying an additional 379 shares during the last quarter. Oliver Lagore Vanvalin Investment Group bought a new stake in shares of National Fuel Gas in the second quarter valued at approximately $30,000. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. grew its stake in shares of National Fuel Gas by 316.7% in the first quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 400 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $32,000 after acquiring an additional 304 shares during the last quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC increased its position in National Fuel Gas by 355.1% during the second quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 405 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 316 shares during the period. Finally, BI Asset Management Fondsmaeglerselskab A S bought a new position in National Fuel Gas during the first quarter worth $55,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 73.96% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have weighed in on NFG. Zacks Research downgraded shares of National Fuel Gas from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, August 18th. Scotiabank cut shares of National Fuel Gas from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and increased their target price for the company from $102.00 to $106.00 in a research note on Thursday, October 9th. Wall Street Zen downgraded National Fuel Gas from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, August 10th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b-) rating on shares of National Fuel Gas in a report on Monday. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, National Fuel Gas presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $98.00.

National Fuel Gas Price Performance

NYSE:NFG opened at $81.36 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80, a quick ratio of 0.39 and a current ratio of 0.46. The company has a 50-day moving average of $84.98 and a 200-day moving average of $84.86. National Fuel Gas Company has a 52 week low of $59.01 and a 52 week high of $94.13. The company has a market capitalization of $7.35 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 30.59, a PEG ratio of 0.45 and a beta of 0.57.

National Fuel Gas (NYSE:NFG  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The oil and gas producer reported $1.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.08 by $0.14. The firm had revenue of $456.41 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $534.57 million. National Fuel Gas had a net margin of 11.15% and a return on equity of 20.81%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 22.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.77 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that National Fuel Gas Company will post 6.64 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

National Fuel Gas Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a dividend of $0.535 per share. This represents a $2.14 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.6%. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. National Fuel Gass dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 37.68%.

National Fuel Gas Profile

(Free Report)

National Fuel Gas Company operates as a diversified energy company. It operates through four segments: Exploration and Production, Pipeline and Storage, Gathering, and Utility. The Exploration and Production segment explores for, develops, and produces natural gas and oil. The Pipeline and Storage segment provides interstate natural gas transportation services through an integrated gas pipeline system in Pennsylvania and New York; and owns and operates underground natural gas storage fields.

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Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach (OTCMKTS:FMBL  Get Free Report) and Glacier Bancorp (NYSE:GBCI  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, dividends, risk, institutional ownership, profitability and valuation.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current ratings and price targets for Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach and Glacier Bancorp, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

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Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach 0 0 0 0 0.00 Glacier Bancorp 0 1 0 1 3.00

Profitability

This table compares Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach and Glacier Bancorps net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach 12.08% 3.84% 0.46% Glacier Bancorp 17.52% 7.11% 0.85%

Earnings & Valuation

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach $459.33 million 2.07 $44.88 million $428.48 18.19 Glacier Bancorp $921.82 million 5.69 $190.14 million $2.04 19.78

This table compares Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach and Glacier Bancorps gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Glacier Bancorp has higher revenue and earnings than Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach. Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Glacier Bancorp, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Dividends

Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach pays an annual dividend of $112.00 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.4%. Glacier Bancorp pays an annual dividend of $1.32 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.3%. Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach pays out 26.1% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Glacier Bancorp pays out 64.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

7.6% of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 80.2% of Glacier Bancorp shares are held by institutional investors. 12.8% of Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 0.5% of Glacier Bancorp shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Risk and Volatility

Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach has a beta of 0.32, indicating that its stock price is 68% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Glacier Bancorp has a beta of 0.83, indicating that its stock price is 17% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Glacier Bancorp beats Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach on 12 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach

(Get Free Report)

Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach provides various banking products and services to individuals, professionals, and small to medium-sized businesses in Los Angeles, Orange, and Santa Barbara Counties. It offers checking, savings, Christmas club savings, health savings, market rate savings, and money market accounts; demand and time deposits; certificates of deposit; and individual retirement account. The company also provides personal, home, commercial real estate, real estate and construction, and commercial business loans, as well as lines of credit; financing for residential loans comprising single-family and multifamily loans; and credit and debit cards. In addition, it offers account management, receivables and payables, and risk management services; commercial lending services; and faith-based and healthcare banking services, as well as online and mobile banking services. Farmers & Merchants Bank of Long Beach was founded in 1907 and is headquartered in Long Beach, California.

About Glacier Bancorp

(Get Free Report)

Glacier Bancorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Glacier Bank that provides commercial banking services to individuals, small to medium-sized businesses, community organizations, and public entities in the United States. It offers non-interest bearing deposit and interest bearing deposit accounts, such as negotiable order of withdrawal and demand deposit accounts, savings accounts, money market deposit accounts, fixed rate certificates of deposit, negotiated-rate jumbo certificates, and individual retirement accounts. The company also provides construction and permanent loans on residential real estate; consumer land or lot acquisition loans; unimproved land and land development loans; and residential builder guidance lines comprising pre-sold and spec-home construction, and lot acquisition loans. In addition, it offers commercial real estate loans to purchase, construct, and finance commercial real estate properties; consumer loans secured by real estate, automobiles, or other assets; paycheck protection program loans; home equity loans consisting of junior lien mortgages, and first and junior lien lines of credit secured by owner-occupied 1-4 family residences; and agriculture loans. Further, the company provides mortgage origination and loan servicing services. It has 224 locations, including 188 branches and 36 loan or administration offices in 75 counties within 8 states comprising Montana, Idaho, Utah, Washington, Wyoming, Colorado, Arizona, and Nevada. The company was founded in 1955 and is headquartered in Kalispell, Montana.

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Greenland Capital Management LP cut its stake in Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE:BAM  Free Report) (TSE:BAM.A) by 10.6% in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 54,798 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 6,525 shares during the period. Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings in Brookfield Asset Management were worth $3,029,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in Brookfield Asset Management by 1.8% in the 1st quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 17,204,794 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $832,833,000 after buying an additional 302,852 shares in the last quarter. TD Asset Management Inc boosted its position in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. TD Asset Management Inc now owns 15,589,384 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $861,101,000 after acquiring an additional 250,068 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its holdings in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 62.4% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 3,755,340 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $208,571,000 after purchasing an additional 1,443,441 shares during the period. DAVENPORT & Co LLC raised its stake in Brookfield Asset Management by 12.2% during the second quarter. DAVENPORT & Co LLC now owns 3,556,812 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $196,348,000 after purchasing an additional 385,937 shares during the period. Finally, The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company grew its stake in shares of Brookfield Asset Management by 58.9% in the 1st quarter. The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company now owns 3,360,125 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $163,354,000 after buying an additional 1,246,011 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.41% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BAM has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price objective on shares of Brookfield Asset Management from $74.00 to $76.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Morgan Stanley set a $62.00 price objective on Brookfield Asset Management in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Jefferies Financial Group increased their target price on Brookfield Asset Management from $55.00 to $62.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Brookfield Asset Management from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday. Finally, Bank of America downgraded shares of Brookfield Asset Management from a buy rating to a neutral rating and set a $68.00 price target for the company. in a research note on Thursday, September 4th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating, seven have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Brookfield Asset Management currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $64.32.

Brookfield Asset Management Trading Up 0.9%

NYSE BAM opened at $49.85 on Wednesday. Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. has a 52 week low of $41.78 and a 52 week high of $64.10. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $55.80 and a two-hundred day moving average of $57.35. The company has a quick ratio of 1.25, a current ratio of 1.25 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The stock has a market capitalization of $81.65 billion, a PE ratio of 33.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 1.38.

Brookfield Asset Management (NYSE:BAM  Get Free Report) (TSE:BAM.A) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The financial services provider reported $0.41 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.39 by $0.02. The business had revenue of $1.27 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.34 billion. Brookfield Asset Management had a net margin of 55.92% and a return on equity of 41.12%. As a group, research analysts expect that Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. will post 1.7 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Brookfield Asset Management Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $0.4375 per share. This represents a $1.75 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. Brookfield Asset Managements dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 109.38%.

Brookfield Asset Management Profile

(Free Report)

Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. is a real estate investment firm specializing in alternative asset management services. Its renewable power and transition business includes the operates in the hydroelectric, wind, solar, distributed generation, and sustainable solution sector. The company's infrastructure business engages in the utilities, transport, midstream, and data infrastructure sectors.

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Greenland Capital Management LP raised its holdings in Cousins Properties Incorporated (NYSE:CUZ  Free Report) by 950.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The firm owned 281,418 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 254,621 shares during the quarter. Cousins Properties accounts for about 0.9% of Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings, making the stock its 25th biggest position. Greenland Capital Management LP owned about 0.17% of Cousins Properties worth $8,451,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Cousins Properties by 2.2% during the first quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 196,842 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,807,000 after buying an additional 4,292 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC grew its holdings in shares of Cousins Properties by 16.5% in the 1st quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 3,374 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $100,000 after acquiring an additional 477 shares during the period. Victory Capital Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Cousins Properties by 119.7% in the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 171,397 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,056,000 after acquiring an additional 93,386 shares during the period. Allianz Asset Management GmbH increased its stake in Cousins Properties by 77.7% in the 1st quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 98,214 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,897,000 after purchasing an additional 42,932 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Choreo LLC raised its holdings in Cousins Properties by 25.6% during the first quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 27,837 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $821,000 after purchasing an additional 5,681 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.38% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have weighed in on CUZ. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their target price on Cousins Properties from $32.00 to $30.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 10th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their price objective on shares of Cousins Properties from $35.00 to $37.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 30th. Truist Financial dropped their target price on shares of Cousins Properties from $31.00 to $30.00 and set a hold rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Jefferies Financial Group downgraded shares of Cousins Properties from a buy rating to a hold rating and reduced their price target for the company from $34.00 to $27.00 in a report on Monday, October 13th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Cousins Properties in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $32.00.

Cousins Properties Stock Up 0.5%

CUZ opened at $25.24 on Wednesday. Cousins Properties Incorporated has a 12 month low of $24.07 and a 12 month high of $32.55. The business has a 50-day moving average of $27.26 and a two-hundred day moving average of $28.10. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 2.45 and a quick ratio of 2.45. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.24 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 68.20, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.36.

Cousins Properties (NYSE:CUZ  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.69 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $0.69. Cousins Properties had a net margin of 6.51% and a return on equity of 1.27%. The business had revenue of $248.33 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $239.70 million. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.67 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 18.7% on a year-over-year basis. Cousins Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.820-2.860 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Cousins Properties Incorporated will post 2.76 earnings per share for the current year.

Cousins Properties Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a dividend of $0.32 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This represents a $1.28 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.1%. Cousins Propertiess payout ratio is currently 365.71%.

Insider Activity at Cousins Properties

In related news, CAO Jeffrey D. Symes sold 4,612 shares of the stock in a transaction on Friday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $29.30, for a total value of $135,131.60. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 13,518 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $396,077.40. This trade represents a 25.44% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. 1.40% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Cousins Properties Company Profile

(Free Report)

Cousins Properties Incorporated ("Cousins") is a fully integrated, self-administered, and self-managed real estate investment trust (REIT). The Company, based in Atlanta and acting through its operating partnership, Cousins Properties LP, primarily invests in Class A office buildings located in high-growth Sun Belt markets.

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Greenland Capital Management LP acquired a new position in shares of EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund acquired 63,731 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $10,651,000. EastGroup Properties comprises about 1.1% of Greenland Capital Management LPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 18th largest holding. Greenland Capital Management LP owned 0.12% of EastGroup Properties as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of EGP. Covestor Ltd raised its holdings in shares of EastGroup Properties by 5.6% in the first quarter. Covestor Ltd now owns 1,161 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $205,000 after acquiring an additional 62 shares during the last quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers raised its stake in EastGroup Properties by 1.9% in the 2nd quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 3,668 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $613,000 after purchasing an additional 68 shares during the last quarter. UMB Bank n.a. lifted its holdings in EastGroup Properties by 4.0% in the 2nd quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,029 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $339,000 after purchasing an additional 78 shares in the last quarter. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd boosted its stake in shares of EastGroup Properties by 0.7% during the 1st quarter. UniSuper Management Pty Ltd now owns 13,900 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,448,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Securian Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in shares of EastGroup Properties by 2.5% during the second quarter. Securian Asset Management Inc. now owns 4,045 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $676,000 after buying an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.14% of the companys stock.

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EastGroup Properties Price Performance

Shares of NYSE EGP opened at $179.93 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $9.60 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 37.80, a PEG ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 1.04. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a current ratio of 0.01 and a quick ratio of 0.01. EastGroup Properties, Inc. has a 1-year low of $137.67 and a 1-year high of $188.89. The business has a 50-day moving average of $172.97 and a 200-day moving average of $169.39.

EastGroup Properties Increases Dividend

EastGroup Properties ( NYSE:EGP Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $2.27 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.28 by ($0.01). The company had revenue of $182.14 million during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $181.88 million. EastGroup Properties had a return on equity of 7.28% and a net margin of 35.58%.The firms revenue was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.13 EPS. EastGroup Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.940-8.980 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 2.300-2.340 EPS. On average, equities analysts anticipate that EastGroup Properties, Inc. will post 8.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a $1.55 dividend. This represents a $6.20 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.4%. This is a positive change from EastGroup Propertiess previous quarterly dividend of $1.40. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. EastGroup Propertiess payout ratio is presently 130.25%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages recently issued reports on EGP. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of EastGroup Properties in a research note on Monday. Truist Financial increased their price target on EastGroup Properties from $177.00 to $188.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Industrial Alliance Securities set a $200.00 price objective on EastGroup Properties in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Cantor Fitzgerald upped their target price on EastGroup Properties from $190.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Finally, BNP Paribas raised EastGroup Properties from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $207.00 price target on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 27th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $190.80.

View Our Latest Report on EGP

Insider Activity at EastGroup Properties

In other EastGroup Properties news, EVP Richard Reid Dunbar sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $175.00, for a total transaction of $350,000.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 20,630 shares in the company, valued at $3,610,250. This trade represents a 8.84% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Company insiders own 1.00% of the companys stock.

EastGroup Properties Profile

(Free Report)

EastGroup Properties, Inc (NYSE: EGP), a member of the S&P Mid-Cap 400 and Russell 1000 Indexes, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina.

Further Reading

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Greenland Capital Management LP bought a new stake in SL Green Realty Corporation (NYSE:SLG  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor bought 67,466 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $4,176,000. Greenland Capital Management LP owned about 0.09% of SL Green Realty as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Bessemer Group Inc. increased its holdings in SL Green Realty by 67.8% during the 2nd quarter. Bessemer Group Inc. now owns 626 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 253 shares in the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP raised its position in shares of SL Green Realty by 2,432.8% during the 2nd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 1,697 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $105,000 after purchasing an additional 1,630 shares during the last quarter. State of Wyoming purchased a new stake in SL Green Realty in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $172,000. Profund Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in SL Green Realty during the 2nd quarter valued at $210,000. Finally, Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. acquired a new position in shares of SL Green Realty in the second quarter worth $214,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.96% of the companys stock.

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SL Green Realty Stock Down 0.2%

SLG opened at $44.58 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $3.18 billion, a PE ratio of 4,462.46 and a beta of 1.75. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.04, a quick ratio of 2.72 and a current ratio of 3.22. SL Green Realty Corporation has a 1 year low of $43.74 and a 1 year high of $80.90. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $55.70 and a 200 day moving average price of $57.89.

SL Green Realty Dividend Announcement

SL Green Realty ( NYSE:SLG Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.58 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.34 by $0.24. SL Green Realty had a net margin of 1.75% and a negative return on equity of 0.22%. The business had revenue of $244.82 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $170.27 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $1.26 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 7.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts expect that SL Green Realty Corporation will post 5.43 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently announced a monthly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 17th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 31st were paid a $0.2575 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 31st. This represents a c) dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.9%. SL Green Realtys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 30,900.00%.

Insider Activity

In related news, Director Carol N. Brown sold 937 shares of SL Green Realty stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $63.09, for a total transaction of $59,115.33. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Company insiders own 5.04% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts have weighed in on SLG shares. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating on shares of SL Green Realty in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Evercore ISI lowered their price objective on SL Green Realty from $72.00 to $63.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Truist Financial set a $54.00 target price on SL Green Realty and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Scotiabank set a $66.00 price target on SL Green Realty and gave the company a sector outperform rating in a report on Friday, October 24th. Finally, New Street Research set a $72.00 price objective on shares of SL Green Realty in a report on Thursday, October 9th. Five research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $64.33.

Read Our Latest Report on SL Green Realty

About SL Green Realty

(Free Report)

3SL Green Realty Corp., Manhattans largest office landlord, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust, or REIT, that is focused primarily on acquiring, managing and maximizing value of Manhattan commercial properties. As of June 30, 2022, SL Green held interests in 64 buildings totaling 34.4 million square feet.

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Grupo Simec, S.A. de C.V. (NYSEAMERICAN:SIM  Get Free Report) shares traded down 5.2% on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $29.99 and last traded at $28.3450. 718 shares changed hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 59% from the average session volume of 1,757 shares. The stock had previously closed at $29.89.

Grupo Simec Stock Performance

The companys 50-day moving average price is $27.81 and its 200 day moving average price is $27.58. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.36 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.00 and a beta of 0.25.

About Grupo Simec

(Get Free Report)

Grupo Simec, SAB. de C.V. manufactures, processes, and distributes special bar quality (SBQ) steel and steel alloys products in Mexico, the United States, Brazil, Canada, Latin America, and internationally. The company produces I-beams, channels, structural and commercial angles, hot rolled bars, flat bars, rebars, cold-finished bars, electro-welded wire mesh and mesh panels, and wire rods, as well as semi-finished tube rounds and other semi-finished trade products.

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Metallurgical Corp. of China (OTCMKTS:MLLUY  Get Free Report) and AECOM (NYSE:ACM  Get Free Report) are both construction companies, but which is the better stock? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their valuation, dividends, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, earnings, risk and profitability.

Profitability

This table compares Metallurgical Corp. of China and AECOMs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Metallurgical Corp. of China N/A N/A N/A AECOM 3.82% 27.87% 5.78%

Analyst Recommendations

This is a breakdown of current ratings and recommmendations for Metallurgical Corp. of China and AECOM, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Metallurgical Corp. of China 0 0 0 0 0.00 AECOM 0 0 11 0 3.00

Earnings and Valuation

AECOM has a consensus target price of $139.80, indicating a potential upside of 10.03%. Given AECOMs stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts clearly believe AECOM is more favorable than Metallurgical Corp. of China.

This table compares Metallurgical Corp. of China and AECOMs gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Metallurgical Corp. of China $76.79 billion 0.07 $938.36 million $0.58 9.36 AECOM $16.07 billion 1.05 $402.27 million $4.59 27.68

Metallurgical Corp. of China has higher revenue and earnings than AECOM. Metallurgical Corp. of China is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than AECOM, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Dividends

Metallurgical Corp. of China pays an annual dividend of $0.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.8%. AECOM pays an annual dividend of $1.04 per share and has a dividend yield of 0.8%. Metallurgical Corp. of China pays out 17.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. AECOM pays out 22.7% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Both companies have healthy payout ratios and should be able to cover their dividend payments with earnings for the next several years. AECOM has increased its dividend for 3 consecutive years. Metallurgical Corp. of China is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and lower payout ratio.

Insider & Institutional Ownership

85.4% of AECOM shares are held by institutional investors. 0.4% of AECOM shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Volatility and Risk

Metallurgical Corp. of China has a beta of 0.73, suggesting that its stock price is 27% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, AECOM has a beta of 1.06, suggesting that its stock price is 6% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

AECOM beats Metallurgical Corp. of China on 13 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Metallurgical Corp. of China

(Get Free Report)

Metallurgical Corporation of China Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the engineering contracting, property development, equipment manufacture, and resource development businesses in China and internationally. The companys Engineering Contracting segment offers engineering, construction, and other related contracting services for metallurgical and non-metallurgical projects. Its Property Development segment develops and sells residential and commercial properties, and housing properties; and develops land. The companys Equipment Manufacturing segment engages in the development and production of metallurgical equipment, steel structures, and other metal products. Its Resource Development segment is involved in the development, mining, and processing of mineral resources; and the production of nonferrous metals and polysilicon. The company was founded in 2008 and is based in Beijing, the Peoples Republic of China.

About AECOM

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AECOM, together with its subsidiaries, provides professional infrastructure consulting services worldwide. It operates in three segments: Americas, International, and AECOM Capital. The company offers planning, consulting, architectural and engineering design, construction and program management, and investment and development services to public and private clients. It is also involved in the investment and development of real estate projects. In addition, the company provides construction services, including building construction and energy, and infrastructure and industrial construction. It serves transportation, water, government, facilities, environmental, and energy sectors. The company was formerly known as AECOM Technology Corporation and changed its name to AECOM in January 2015. AECOM was incorporated in 1980 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

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Colony Bankcorp (NYSE:CBAN  Get Free Report) is one of 87 public companies in the BANKS  SOUTHEAST industry, but how does it compare to its peers? We will compare Colony Bankcorp to similar companies based on the strength of its analyst recommendations, valuation, institutional ownership, risk, earnings, profitability and dividends.

Dividends

Colony Bankcorp pays an annual dividend of $0.46 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.8%. Colony Bankcorp pays out 28.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BANKS  SOUTHEAST companies pay a dividend yield of 2.1% and pay out 24.1% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

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Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and price targets for Colony Bankcorp and its peers, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Colony Bankcorp 0 0 1 0 3.00 Colony Bankcorp Competitors 467 2419 2162 114 2.37

Insider and Institutional Ownership

As a group, BANKS  SOUTHEAST companies have a potential upside of 18.02%. Given Colony Bankcorps peers higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Colony Bankcorp has less favorable growth aspects than its peers.

50.4% of Colony Bankcorp shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 50.4% of shares of all BANKS  SOUTHEAST companies are held by institutional investors. 6.6% of Colony Bankcorp shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 12.8% of shares of all BANKS  SOUTHEAST companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company is poised for long-term growth.

Valuation & Earnings

This table compares Colony Bankcorp and its peers top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Colony Bankcorp $126.05 million $23.87 million 10.16 Colony Bankcorp Competitors $602.79 million $154.64 million 13.76

Colony Bankcorps peers have higher revenue and earnings than Colony Bankcorp. Colony Bankcorp is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Volatility and Risk

Colony Bankcorp has a beta of 0.72, suggesting that its stock price is 28% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Colony Bankcorps peers have a beta of 0.64, suggesting that their average stock price is 36% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Colony Bankcorp and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Colony Bankcorp 15.07% 10.67% 0.98% Colony Bankcorp Competitors 16.58% 9.98% 1.05%

Summary

Colony Bankcorp peers beat Colony Bankcorp on 10 of the 15 factors compared.

Colony Bankcorp Company Profile

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Colony Bankcorp, Inc. operates as the bank holding company for Colony Bank that provides various banking products and services to commercial and consumer customers. The company offers various deposit products, including demand, savings, and time deposits. It also provides loans to small and medium-sized businesses; residential and commercial construction, and land development loans; commercial real estate loans; commercial loans; agri-business and production loans; residential mortgage loans; home equity loans; and consumer loans. In addition, the company offers internet banking services, electronic bill payment services, safe deposit box rentals, telephone banking, credit and debit card services, and remote depository products, as well as access to a network of ATMs. As of January 20, 2022, it operated 39 locations throughout Georgia. The company was founded in 1975 and is headquartered in Fitzgerald, Georgia.

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Inspire Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of STMicroelectronics N.V. (NYSE:STM  Free Report) by 12.3% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The firm owned 22,771 shares of the semiconductor producers stock after buying an additional 2,498 shares during the quarter. Inspire Advisors LLCs holdings in STMicroelectronics were worth $692,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in STM. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of STMicroelectronics during the second quarter valued at approximately $287,000. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC grew its position in STMicroelectronics by 5.6% in the 2nd quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC now owns 13,041 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $397,000 after purchasing an additional 697 shares during the period. Rothschild Investment LLC increased its stake in STMicroelectronics by 248.4% during the 2nd quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC now owns 1,303 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 929 shares in the last quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. acquired a new position in STMicroelectronics during the second quarter worth $773,000. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers lifted its stake in shares of STMicroelectronics by 21.8% in the second quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 38,401 shares of the semiconductor producers stock valued at $1,168,000 after buying an additional 6,870 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 5.05% of the companys stock.

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STMicroelectronics Price Performance

Shares of NYSE STM opened at $22.35 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $20.08 billion, a PE ratio of 38.54, a PEG ratio of 4.59 and a beta of 1.67. The company has a quick ratio of 2.28, a current ratio of 3.22 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $26.67 and its 200-day moving average price is $27.29. STMicroelectronics N.V. has a twelve month low of $17.25 and a twelve month high of $33.47.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

STMicroelectronics ( NYSE:STM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The semiconductor producer reported $0.29 EPS for the quarter. STMicroelectronics had a return on equity of 4.06% and a net margin of 4.55%.The company had revenue of $3.19 billion during the quarter. On average, equities analysts anticipate that STMicroelectronics N.V. will post 0.85 EPS for the current year.

A number of equities research analysts recently weighed in on STM shares. Citigroup restated a buy rating on shares of STMicroelectronics in a report on Thursday, September 4th. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $26.50 price objective on STMicroelectronics and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, July 25th. BNP Paribas upgraded STMicroelectronics from a hold rating to an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Susquehanna lifted their target price on STMicroelectronics from $35.00 to $40.00 and gave the company a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Weiss Ratings downgraded STMicroelectronics from a hold (c-) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, STMicroelectronics presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $31.19.

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STMicroelectronics Company Profile

(Free Report)

STMicroelectronics N.V., together with its subsidiaries, designs, develops, manufactures, and sells semiconductor products in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Americas, and the Asia Pacific. The company operates through Automotive and Discrete Group; Analog, MEMS and Sensors Group; and Microcontrollers and Digital ICs Group segments.

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Intech Investment Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of JBT Marel Corporation (NYSE:JBTM  Free Report) in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor bought 27,982 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $3,365,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. JTC Employer Solutions Trustee Ltd bought a new position in shares of JBT Marel during the second quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Allworth Financial LP bought a new stake in JBT Marel during the 2nd quarter valued at $30,000. Costello Asset Management INC purchased a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter valued at $36,000. Fifth Third Bancorp bought a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter worth $50,000. Finally, Eukles Asset Management bought a new position in shares of JBT Marel in the 2nd quarter worth $54,000. 98.92% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on JBTM. Robert W. Baird set a $169.00 price objective on shares of JBT Marel in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of JBT Marel in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, William Blair upgraded JBT Marel from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, JBT Marel has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $156.00.

JBT Marel Stock Performance

JBTM opened at $135.79 on Wednesday. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $136.41 and a 200 day moving average price of $130.88. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 0.93 and a quick ratio of 0.53. JBT Marel Corporation has a 1 year low of $90.08 and a 1 year high of $148.76. The stock has a market cap of $7.06 billion, a P/E ratio of -59.30, a P/E/G ratio of 1.72 and a beta of 1.18.

JBT Marel (NYSE:JBTM  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The company reported $1.94 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.51 by $0.43. JBT Marel had a positive return on equity of 7.96% and a negative net margin of 5.08%.The firm had revenue of $1 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $936.75 million. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 120.6% on a year-over-year basis. JBT Marel has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.100-6.400 EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that JBT Marel Corporation will post 5.21 earnings per share for the current year.

JBT Marel Company Profile

(Free Report)

JBT Marel Corporation provides technology solutions to food and beverage industry in North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, and Latin America. It offers value-added processing that includes chilling, mixing/grinding, injecting, blending, marinating, tumbling, flattening, forming, portioning, coating, cooking, frying, freezing, extracting, pasteurizing, sterilizing, concentrating, high pressure processing, weighing, inspecting, filling, closing, sealing, end of line material handling, and packaging solutions to the food, beverage, and health market.

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Internet Initiative Japan, Inc. (OTCMKTS:IIJIY  Get Free Report) shares gapped up prior to trading on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $33.77, but opened at $35.25. Internet Initiative Japan shares last traded at $35.25, with a volume of 2,002 shares trading hands.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, Jefferies Financial Group upgraded shares of Internet Initiative Japan from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Thursday, August 21st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, According to data from MarketBeat, Internet Initiative Japan currently has a consensus rating of Strong Buy.

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Internet Initiative Japan Price Performance

The company has a market capitalization of $3.23 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 23.19 and a beta of 1.06. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $35.61 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $37.14.

Internet Initiative Japan (OTCMKTS:IIJIY  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The communications equipment provider reported $0.48 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.40 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $555.81 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $528.83 million. Internet Initiative Japan had a return on equity of 14.55% and a net margin of 6.32%. As a group, research analysts predict that Internet Initiative Japan, Inc. will post 0.37 EPS for the current year.

Internet Initiative Japan Company Profile

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Internet Initiative Japan Inc provides Internet connectivity, WAN, outsourcing, systems integration, and network-related equipment sales services in Japan. It operates through two segments, Network Services and Systems Integration Business, and ATM Operation Business. The company offers mobile communication and remote access/telework services; WAN/network services, including SDN, multi-cloud network, closed connection, internet VPN, SEIL, remote access, wireless LAN, and GIGA-school; leased line and broadband services; IIJ DNS platform, and domain name registration and maintenance services; IIJ access ID management, dial-up access, and IIJ IPv6 fiber access services; and security solutions for IIJ managed firewall, DDoS protection, and managed IPS/IDS services.

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KBC Group NV reduced its holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. (NYSE:HII  Free Report) by 24.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,077 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 343 shares during the quarter. KBC Group NVs holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries were worth $260,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the business. William B. Walkup & Associates Inc. increased its holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries by 2.4% in the first quarter. William B. Walkup & Associates Inc. now owns 1,843 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $376,000 after purchasing an additional 44 shares during the period. Pullen Investment Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 0.3% in the second quarter. Pullen Investment Management LLC now owns 15,876 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $3,833,000 after buying an additional 46 shares during the period. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust raised its position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 27.3% during the second quarter. Parkside Financial Bank & Trust now owns 224 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $54,000 after acquiring an additional 48 shares during the last quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC raised its position in shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries by 11.3% during the second quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 572 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $138,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wealthfront Advisers LLC boosted its holdings in Huntington Ingalls Industries by 4.9% in the second quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC now owns 1,237 shares of the aerospace companys stock valued at $299,000 after acquiring an additional 58 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.46% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, CEO Christopher D. Kastner sold 15,000 shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $321.06, for a total value of $4,815,900.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 68,139 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $21,876,707.34. This trade represents a 18.04% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, CAO Nicolas G. Schuck sold 466 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, November 4th. The stock was sold at an average price of $314.36, for a total transaction of $146,491.76. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 2,418 shares in the company, valued at approximately $760,122.48. The trade was a 16.16% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. 0.72% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on HII shares. Sanford C. Bernstein restated a market perform rating and issued a $362.00 price target on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Huntington Ingalls Industries in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Cowen increased their price target on Huntington Ingalls Industries from $320.00 to $350.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group lifted their price objective on Huntington Ingalls Industries from $316.00 to $356.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Wall Street Zen downgraded Huntington Ingalls Industries from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research note on Sunday, September 7th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Huntington Ingalls Industries has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $318.57.

View Our Latest Research Report on Huntington Ingalls Industries

Huntington Ingalls Industries Trading Down 0.5%

HII opened at $308.35 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $291.96 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $263.66. Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. has a 1-year low of $158.88 and a 1-year high of $330.00. The company has a market cap of $12.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 23.08, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.71 and a beta of 0.40. The company has a current ratio of 1.08, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.55.

Huntington Ingalls Industries (NYSE:HII  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The aerospace company reported $3.68 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $3.29 by $0.39. Huntington Ingalls Industries had a return on equity of 11.34% and a net margin of 4.54%.The company had revenue of $3.19 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.95 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $2.56 EPS. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 16.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Huntington Ingalls Industries has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Analysts predict that Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc. will post 13.99 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Huntington Ingalls Industries Increases Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $1.38 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This is a positive change from Huntington Ingalls Industriess previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. This represents a $5.52 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.8%. Huntington Ingalls Industriess payout ratio is currently 38.12%.

Huntington Ingalls Industries Company Profile

(Free Report)

Huntington Ingalls Industries, Inc designs, builds, overhauls, and repairs military ships in the United States. It operates through three segments: Ingalls, Newport News, and Mission Technologies. The company is involved in the design and construction of non-nuclear ships comprising amphibious assault ships; expeditionary warfare ships; surface combatants; and national security cutters for the U.S.

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KBR, Inc. (NYSE:KBR  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week low during mid-day trading on Monday . The company traded as low as $40.47 and last traded at $40.65, with a volume of 428225 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $42.07.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

KBR has been the topic of several analyst reports. Bank of America cut their price target on shares of KBR from $55.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Wells Fargo & Company initiated coverage on KBR in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. They set an equal weight rating and a $45.00 target price on the stock. DA Davidson lowered their price target on KBR from $72.00 to $65.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Friday, August 1st. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of KBR in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut shares of KBR from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, KBR has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $59.00.

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KBR Stock Performance

The company has a current ratio of 1.13, a quick ratio of 1.13 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.73. The firms fifty day moving average price is $45.16 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $48.48. The stock has a market capitalization of $5.14 billion, a PE ratio of 14.68, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 0.68.

KBR (NYSE:KBR  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The construction company reported $1.02 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.95 by $0.07. The firm had revenue of $525.00 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.99 billion. KBR had a return on equity of 33.65% and a net margin of 4.52%.The companys quarterly revenue was down .3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the firm earned $0.84 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that KBR, Inc. will post 3.26 EPS for the current year.

KBR Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Monday, December 15th will be paid a $0.165 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, December 15th. This represents a $0.66 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. KBRs payout ratio is currently 22.68%.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On KBR

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Pembroke Management LTD raised its position in shares of KBR by 9.1% during the 2nd quarter. Pembroke Management LTD now owns 240,806 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $11,544,000 after buying an additional 19,995 shares during the period. Cerity Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of KBR by 697.0% during the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 27,314 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,361,000 after purchasing an additional 23,887 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers increased its position in shares of KBR by 22.1% during the 1st quarter. Cetera Investment Advisers now owns 8,453 shares of the construction companys stock worth $421,000 after purchasing an additional 1,531 shares during the last quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC raised its holdings in shares of KBR by 11.7% in the 1st quarter. Hsbc Holdings PLC now owns 18,477 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $919,000 after buying an additional 1,938 shares during the period. Finally, Dynamic Technology Lab Private Ltd acquired a new stake in KBR during the 1st quarter worth approximately $1,081,000. 97.02% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About KBR

(Get Free Report)

KBR, Inc provides scientific, technology, and engineering solutions to governments and commercial customers worldwide. It operates through Government Solutions and Sustainable Technology Solutions segments. The Government Solutions segment offers life-cycle support solutions to defense, intelligence, space, aviation, and other programs and missions for military and other government agencies in the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia.

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Kenmare Resources (LON:KMR  Get Free Report) had its target price decreased by stock analysts at Berenberg Bank from GBX 330 to GBX 300 in a research report issued on Wednesday,Digital Look reports. The firm presently has a hold rating on the stock. Berenberg Banks price target suggests a potential upside of 13.64% from the companys current price.

Separately, Peel Hunt restated a buy rating and set a GBX 485 price objective on shares of Kenmare Resources in a report on Tuesday. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of GBX 392.50.

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Kenmare Resources Trading Up 0.8%

Kenmare Resources Company Profile

Shares of Kenmare Resources stock traded up GBX 2 on Wednesday, hitting GBX 264. 252,887 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 135,683. The firms 50-day moving average price is GBX 288.02 and its two-hundred day moving average price is GBX 326.62. The stock has a market capitalization of 233.46 million, a PE ratio of -4.55, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.03 and a beta of 0.58. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12, a current ratio of 5.63 and a quick ratio of 1.22. Kenmare Resources has a one year low of GBX 242 and a one year high of GBX 450.

(Get Free Report)

Kenmare Resources plc is one of the worlds largest producers of titanium minerals. Listed on the London Stock Exchange and the Euronext Dublin, Kenmare operates the Moma Titanium Minerals Mine in Mozambique. Momas production accounts for approximately 6% of global titanium feedstocks and the Company supplies to customers operating in more than 15 countries.

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LSV Asset Management decreased its position in shares of Kilroy Realty Corporation (NYSE:KRC  Free Report) by 1.9% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 572,000 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 11,100 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Management owned approximately 0.48% of Kilroy Realty worth $19,625,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. American National Bank & Trust acquired a new stake in shares of Kilroy Realty in the 2nd quarter valued at about $25,000. Quaker Wealth Management LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Kilroy Realty by 200.0% in the second quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 755 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 1,510 shares during the period. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Kilroy Realty in the second quarter valued at approximately $34,000. UMB Bank n.a. grew its position in shares of Kilroy Realty by 46.0% during the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 1,694 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $58,000 after acquiring an additional 534 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Hantz Financial Services Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Kilroy Realty by 20,078.6% in the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 2,825 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $97,000 after acquiring an additional 2,811 shares during the period. 94.22% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on shares of Kilroy Realty from $33.00 to $40.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 27th. Jefferies Financial Group raised shares of Kilroy Realty from a hold rating to a buy rating and upped their target price for the company from $33.00 to $45.00 in a report on Monday, October 13th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reiterated a neutral rating and set a $44.00 target price (down previously from $46.00) on shares of Kilroy Realty in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Scotiabank upgraded Kilroy Realty from a sector underperform rating to a sector perform rating and boosted their price target for the company from $40.00 to $47.00 in a research report on Wednesday, September 17th. Finally, Zacks Research raised Kilroy Realty to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Kilroy Realty presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $41.92.

Kilroy Realty Trading Up 2.5%

Shares of Kilroy Realty stock opened at $41.42 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $4.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.28 and a beta of 1.22. Kilroy Realty Corporation has a 52-week low of $27.07 and a 52-week high of $45.03. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $42.05 and its 200-day simple moving average is $38.17. The company has a quick ratio of 2.35, a current ratio of 2.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.81.

Kilroy Realty (NYSE:KRC  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.09 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.00 by $0.09. Kilroy Realty had a net margin of 28.68% and a return on equity of 5.75%. The firm had revenue of $279.74 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $271.24 million. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.17 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 3.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Kilroy Realty has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.180-4.240 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that Kilroy Realty Corporation will post 4 earnings per share for the current year.

Kilroy Realty Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, January 7th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a $0.54 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $2.16 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 5.2%. Kilroy Realtys payout ratio is 79.70%.

About Kilroy Realty

(Free Report)

Kilroy Realty Corporation (NYSE: KRC, the company, Kilroy) is a leading U.S. landlord and developer, with operations in San Diego, Greater Los Angeles, the San Francisco Bay Area, Greater Seattle and Austin. The company has earned global recognition for sustainability, building operations, innovation and design.

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Klarna Group (NYSE:KLAR  Get Free Report) had its target price reduced by stock analysts at Morgan Stanley from $43.00 to $39.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The firm presently has an equal weight rating on the stock. Morgan Stanleys price target suggests a potential upside of 22.54% from the companys current price.

Several other analysts have also weighed in on KLAR. Wall Street Zen raised Klarna Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, October 26th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods began coverage on shares of Klarna Group in a report on Monday, October 6th. They set an outperform rating and a $52.00 target price for the company. UBS Group assumed coverage on shares of Klarna Group in a report on Monday, October 6th. They issued a buy rating and a $48.00 price target on the stock. The Goldman Sachs Group initiated coverage on shares of Klarna Group in a research note on Monday, October 6th. They set a buy rating and a $55.00 price objective for the company. Finally, Wolfe Research lowered their target price on Klarna Group from $50.00 to $45.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday. Eleven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and eight have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Klarna Group has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $48.40.

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Klarna Group Trading Down 8.8%

Shares of KLAR opened at $31.83 on Wednesday. Klarna Group has a twelve month low of $31.22 and a twelve month high of $57.20. The businesss 50-day moving average is $39.07.

Klarna Group (NYSE:KLAR  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 18th. The company reported ($0.25) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($0.33) by $0.08. Klarna Group has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

A number of large investors have recently made changes to their positions in KLAR. SC US Ttgp LTD. acquired a new stake in shares of Klarna Group during the third quarter worth $2,016,821,000. Wellington Management Group LLP acquired a new position in shares of Klarna Group during the 3rd quarter valued at about $348,834,000. Dragoneer Investment Group LLC purchased a new position in shares of Klarna Group during the 3rd quarter worth about $303,595,000. Scge Management L.P. acquired a new stake in shares of Klarna Group in the third quarter worth approximately $193,018,000. Finally, HarbourVest Partners LLC acquired a new position in Klarna Group during the third quarter worth approximately $184,105,000.

About Klarna Group

(Get Free Report)

Our mission is to reimagine how consumers spend and save in their daily lives. We help people save time, money and put them in control of their finances. Our vision is a world where Klarna empowers everyone, everywhere, through seamless commerce experiences-as a personalized, trusted assistant making financial empowerment effortless.

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Savant Capital LLC lifted its stake in Lloyds Banking Group PLC (NYSE:LYG  Free Report) by 53.8% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 71,961 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 25,181 shares during the quarter. Savant Capital LLCs holdings in Lloyds Banking Group were worth $306,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. V Square Quantitative Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Lloyds Banking Group during the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Opal Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Lloyds Banking Group in the 2nd quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC acquired a new position in Lloyds Banking Group during the second quarter worth $38,000. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors LLC boosted its position in Lloyds Banking Group by 10,836.3% during the second quarter. Halbert Hargrove Global Advisors LLC now owns 9,952 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 9,861 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Earned Wealth Advisors LLC purchased a new position in shares of Lloyds Banking Group in the first quarter valued at $38,000. 2.15% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Lloyds Banking Group Stock Performance

Shares of LYG opened at $4.72 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $69.72 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.47, a PEG ratio of 0.65 and a beta of 1.05. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.94, a quick ratio of 0.53 and a current ratio of 0.55. Lloyds Banking Group PLC has a 1 year low of $2.56 and a 1 year high of $5.05. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $4.61 and its 200 day simple moving average is $4.37.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Lloyds Banking Group ( NYSE:LYG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The financial services provider reported $0.05 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.12 by ($0.07). Lloyds Banking Group had a net margin of 18.04% and a return on equity of 8.38%. The business had revenue of $6.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.02 billion. On average, sell-side analysts predict that Lloyds Banking Group PLC will post 0.27 EPS for the current year.

Several equities research analysts recently commented on the stock. Zacks Research lowered shares of Lloyds Banking Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 23rd. Morgan Stanley reaffirmed an overweight rating on shares of Lloyds Banking Group in a report on Monday, August 4th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Lloyds Banking Group in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Wall Street Zen cut Lloyds Banking Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, Kepler Capital Markets raised Lloyds Banking Group from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Check Out Our Latest Report on LYG

About Lloyds Banking Group

(Free Report)

Lloyds Banking Group plc, together with its subsidiaries, provides a range of banking and financial services in the United Kingdom and internationally. It operates in three segments: Retail; Commercial Banking; and Insurance, Pensions and Investments. The Retail segment offers a range of financial service products, including current accounts, savings, mortgages, motor finance, unsecured loans, leasing solutions, and credit cards to personal customers.

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LSV Asset Management lowered its position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG  Free Report) by 6.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 937,800 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 59,800 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Management owned 0.43% of Kite Realty Group Trust worth $21,241,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of KRG. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC purchased a new position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust during the 2nd quarter valued at $30,000. UMB Bank n.a. raised its holdings in Kite Realty Group Trust by 103.0% during the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 2,607 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $59,000 after acquiring an additional 1,323 shares during the period. Blue Trust Inc. raised its holdings in Kite Realty Group Trust by 44.0% during the second quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,973 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $67,000 after acquiring an additional 908 shares during the period. Dagco Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in the first quarter valued at about $92,000. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its stake in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 30.1% in the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 4,520 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $102,000 after acquiring an additional 1,045 shares during the period. 90.81% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

KRG has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Raymond James Financial downgraded Kite Realty Group Trust from a strong-buy rating to a market perform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Kite Realty Group Trust from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Saturday, November 1st. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. LADENBURG THALM/SH SH assumed coverage on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research note on Tuesday, September 9th. They set a buy rating and a $30.00 target price for the company. Finally, Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $24.00 price target (down previously from $28.00) on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research note on Friday, September 12th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $25.88.

Kite Realty Group Trust Trading Up 1.1%

Shares of KRG opened at $22.24 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day moving average is $22.28 and its 200 day moving average is $22.35. Kite Realty Group Trust has a fifty-two week low of $18.51 and a fifty-two week high of $28.24. The stock has a market capitalization of $4.81 billion, a PE ratio of 34.75, a P/E/G ratio of 6.16 and a beta of 1.13. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91, a quick ratio of 1.70 and a current ratio of 1.70.

Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.52 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.51 by $0.01. Kite Realty Group Trust had a net margin of 16.34% and a return on equity of 4.23%. The business had revenue of $205.06 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $208.82 million. Kite Realty Group Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.090-2.110 EPS. Sell-side analysts expect that Kite Realty Group Trust will post 2.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Kite Realty Group Trust Increases Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 16th. Investors of record on Friday, January 9th will be given a $0.29 dividend. This is an increase from Kite Realty Group Trusts previous quarterly dividend of $0.27. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.2%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, January 9th. Kite Realty Group Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 181.25%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Kite Realty Group Trust news, CEO John A. Kite sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $22.70, for a total transaction of $1,135,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 54,121 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,228,546.70. The trade was a 48.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. Corporate insiders own 2.00% of the companys stock.

About Kite Realty Group Trust

(Free Report)

Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE: KRG) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) headquartered in Indianapolis, IN that is one of the largest publicly traded owners and operators of open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets. The Companys primarily grocery-anchored portfolio is located in high-growth Sun Belt and select strategic gateway markets.

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Medtronic (NYSE:MDT  Get Free Report) had its target price raised by investment analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $111.00 to $118.00 in a report released on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage presently has an outperform rating on the medical technology companys stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas price target would suggest a potential upside of 17.14% from the companys previous close.

Several other analysts have also recently commented on the company. Leerink Partners set a $120.00 target price on Medtronic and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday. Sanford C. Bernstein reissued an outperform rating and set a $98.00 price target on shares of Medtronic in a report on Friday, October 31st. Daiwa Capital Markets lifted their price objective on shares of Medtronic from $101.00 to $104.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Friday, September 12th. Needham & Company LLC reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Medtronic in a report on Thursday, August 14th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Medtronic from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, November 2nd. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have assigned a Buy rating and twelve have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $107.94.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on MDT

Medtronic Stock Performance

NYSE:MDT traded down $0.07 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting $100.73. The stock had a trading volume of 4,162,995 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,491,583. The company has a current ratio of 2.01, a quick ratio of 1.50 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.54. The company has a 50 day simple moving average of $94.64 and a 200-day simple moving average of $90.63. The stock has a market capitalization of $129.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 27.77, a P/E/G ratio of 2.42 and a beta of 0.77. Medtronic has a 52 week low of $79.29 and a 52 week high of $102.59.

Medtronic (NYSE:MDT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 18th. The medical technology company reported $1.36 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.31 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $8.96 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.86 billion. Medtronic had a net margin of 13.63% and a return on equity of 14.61%. Medtronics revenue was up 6.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business earned $1.26 earnings per share. Medtronic has set its FY 2026 guidance at 5.620-5.660 EPS. On average, research analysts expect that Medtronic will post 5.46 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Transactions at Medtronic

In other Medtronic news, Director William R. Jellison acquired 2,500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, August 25th. The shares were bought at an average price of $92.37 per share, with a total value of $230,925.00. Following the purchase, the director directly owned 5,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $461,850. This trade represents a 100.00% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, EVP Harry Skip Kiil sold 8,605 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $91.58, for a total transaction of $788,045.90. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 35,615 shares in the company, valued at $3,261,621.70. The trade was a 19.46% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. 0.26% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in MDT. Vanguard Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Medtronic by 1.5% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 126,909,406 shares of the medical technology companys stock worth $11,062,693,000 after acquiring an additional 1,895,165 shares during the last quarter. State Street Corp boosted its position in shares of Medtronic by 1.0% in the 3rd quarter. State Street Corp now owns 60,460,537 shares of the medical technology companys stock valued at $5,800,550,000 after purchasing an additional 625,992 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its stake in Medtronic by 1.1% in the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 28,227,006 shares of the medical technology companys stock worth $2,448,699,000 after purchasing an additional 310,684 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp increased its stake in Medtronic by 0.9% in the 3rd quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 21,468,260 shares of the medical technology companys stock worth $2,044,637,000 after purchasing an additional 192,410 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its holdings in Medtronic by 0.5% during the 3rd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 21,086,499 shares of the medical technology companys stock worth $2,008,278,000 after buying an additional 98,220 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.06% of the companys stock.

About Medtronic

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Medtronic plc develops, manufactures, and sells device-based medical therapies to healthcare systems, physicians, clinicians, and patients worldwide. Its Cardiovascular Portfolio segment offers implantable cardiac pacemakers, cardioverter defibrillators, and cardiac resynchronization therapy devices; cardiac ablation products; insertable cardiac monitor systems; TYRX products; and remote monitoring and patient-centered software.

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MEG Energy Corp. (OTCMKTS:MEGEF  Get Free Report) shares passed above its 50 day moving average during trading on Tuesday . The stock has a 50 day moving average of $20.99 and traded as high as $22.1050. MEG Energy shares last traded at $21.96, with a volume of 22,880 shares traded.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Separately, TD Securities downgraded MEG Energy to a sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Reduce.

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MEG Energy Stock Up 0.0%

MEG Energy Increases Dividend

The firms fifty day simple moving average is $20.99 and its 200-day simple moving average is $19.56.

The company also recently disclosed a dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Monday, September 15th were issued a $0.0796 dividend. This represents a yield of 156.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, September 12th. This is an increase from MEG Energys previous dividend of $0.07.

About MEG Energy

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MEG Energy Corp., an energy company, focuses on sustainable in situ thermal oil production in its Christina Lake Project in the southern Athabasca oil region of Alberta, Canada. The company develops oil recovery projects that utilize steam-assisted gravity drainage extraction methods to improve the recovery of oil, as well as lower carbon emissions.

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Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC reduced its position in Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC  Free Report) by 12.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 1,260 shares of the aerospace companys stock after selling 185 shares during the quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLCs holdings in Northrop Grumman were worth $630,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. IMA Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new stake in shares of Northrop Grumman during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $27,000. Saudi Central Bank bought a new stake in Northrop Grumman during the first quarter valued at $28,000. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new stake in shares of Northrop Grumman during the first quarter worth $30,000. NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its position in shares of Northrop Grumman by 75.0% in the 2nd quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 63 shares of the aerospace companys stock worth $31,000 after buying an additional 27 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Flaharty Asset Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Northrop Grumman in the 1st quarter valued at about $36,000. Institutional investors own 83.40% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities research analysts recently weighed in on NOC shares. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Northrop Grumman from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Friday, September 5th. Barclays upped their target price on Northrop Grumman from $500.00 to $580.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, July 29th. Morgan Stanley raised their price target on Northrop Grumman from $625.00 to $720.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Wells Fargo & Company restated an overweight rating on shares of Northrop Grumman in a research note on Tuesday, July 22nd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Northrop Grumman from $575.00 to $640.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $646.94.

Northrop Grumman Trading Up 0.7%

Shares of NOC stock opened at $566.77 on Wednesday. Northrop Grumman Corporation has a 1 year low of $426.24 and a 1 year high of $640.90. The firm has a market capitalization of $80.89 billion, a PE ratio of 20.39, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 5.07 and a beta of 0.07. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $589.74 and a two-hundred day moving average of $549.56. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.98 and a current ratio of 1.11.

Northrop Grumman (NYSE:NOC  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 21st. The aerospace company reported $7.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.43 by $1.24. The business had revenue of $10.42 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.68 billion. Northrop Grumman had a net margin of 9.82% and a return on equity of 25.49%. The companys revenue was up 4.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the business earned $7.00 earnings per share. Northrop Grumman has set its FY 2025 guidance at 25.650-26.050 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that Northrop Grumman Corporation will post 28.05 EPS for the current year.

About Northrop Grumman

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Northrop Grumman Corporation operates as an aerospace and defense technology company in the United States, Asia/Pacific, Europe, and internationally. The companys Aeronautics Systems segment designs, develops, manufactures, integrates, and sustains aircraft systems. This segment also offers unmanned autonomous aircraft systems, including high-altitude long-endurance strategic ISR systems and vertical take-off and landing tactical ISR systems; and strategic long-range strike aircraft, tactical fighter and air dominance aircraft, and airborne battle management and command and control systems.

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Risk & Volatility

FuelPositive has a beta of 0.26, meaning that its stock price is 74% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Ntt Data has a beta of 0.98, meaning that its stock price is 2% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares FuelPositive and Ntt Datas revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio FuelPositive N/A N/A -$14.05 million ($0.01) -3.86 Ntt Data $30.46 billion 1.08 $940.20 million $0.68 34.56

Profitability

Ntt Data has higher revenue and earnings than FuelPositive. FuelPositive is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Ntt Data, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This table compares FuelPositive and Ntt Datas net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets FuelPositive N/A -54.47% -44.36% Ntt Data 3.06% 4.98% 1.86%

Summary

Ntt Data beats FuelPositive on 8 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About FuelPositive

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FuelPositive Corporation, a technology company, provides clean energy solutions in Canada. The company's clean technology solutions include green ammonia (NH3) for use in various industries and applications. Its flagship product is a green ammonia production system that takes air, water, and electricity to produce a non-polluting chemical for various applications, including fertilizer for farming, fuel for grain drying and internal combustion engines, a solution for grid storage, and an alternative for fuel cells. The company was formerly known as EEStor Corporation and changed its name to FuelPositive Corporation in February 2021. FuelPositive Corporation is headquartered in Waterloo, Canada.

About Ntt Data

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NTT DATA Group Corporation provides IT and business services worldwide. It offers cloud, cybersecurity, data and intelligence, salesforce, SAP, ServiceNow, and application development and management, as well as 5G services. The company also provides consulting, industry solutions, business process services, and IT modernization and managed services. It serves automotive, healthcare, life sciences, media, banking, and insurance industries. The company was formerly known as NTT DATA Corporation. NTT DATA Group Corporation was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. NTT DATA Group Corporation operates as a subsidiary of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation.

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Outlook Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The fund acquired 1,246 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $227,000.

Other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 54.0% during the 2nd quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. now owns 98,780 shares of the companys stock worth $17,535,000 after buying an additional 34,638 shares during the last quarter. TRUE Private Wealth Advisors grew its position in Philip Morris International by 44.4% in the second quarter. TRUE Private Wealth Advisors now owns 6,102 shares of the companys stock worth $1,111,000 after acquiring an additional 1,875 shares during the period. Anfield Capital Management LLC grew its position in Philip Morris International by 185.5% in the second quarter. Anfield Capital Management LLC now owns 197 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 128 shares during the period. Copperleaf Capital LLC increased its stake in Philip Morris International by 11.7% during the second quarter. Copperleaf Capital LLC now owns 6,406 shares of the companys stock worth $1,167,000 after acquiring an additional 671 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Primecap Management Co. CA raised its position in Philip Morris International by 599.2% in the second quarter. Primecap Management Co. CA now owns 915,300 shares of the companys stock valued at $166,704,000 after purchasing an additional 784,400 shares during the period. 78.63% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Shares of PM stock opened at $156.05 on Wednesday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $116.12 and a fifty-two week high of $186.69. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $157.08 and a 200 day moving average price of $167.63. The stock has a market capitalization of $242.92 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.43.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $8.12 billion during the quarter. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.33% and a negative return on equity of 122.14%. On average, research analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Investors of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a dividend of $1.47 per share. This represents a $5.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This is a positive change from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is presently 106.52%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on PM shares. Morgan Stanley set a $175.00 price target on Philip Morris International and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. KGI Securities began coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Monday, August 4th. They issued an outperform rating on the stock. Finally, Barclays lowered their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $220.00 to $180.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday. Twelve analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Philip Morris International has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $189.56.

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About Philip Morris International

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

See Also

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report).

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Great Portland Estates (LON:GPE  Get Free Report)s stock had its buy rating reiterated by research analysts at Panmure Gordon in a note issued to investors on Wednesday,Digital Look reports. They presently have a GBX 440 price target on the stock. Panmure Gordons price objective would indicate a potential upside of 43.56% from the stocks current price.

A number of other equities analysts have also recently weighed in on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price target on shares of Great Portland Estates from GBX 332 to GBX 342 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday. Peel Hunt reaffirmed a buy rating and set a GBX 375 price objective on shares of Great Portland Estates in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Shore Capital reissued a buy rating on shares of Great Portland Estates in a research note on Tuesday. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of GBX 409.80.

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Great Portland Estates Trading Down 2.7%

Insider Activity

Shares of LON:GPE traded down GBX 8.50 during trading on Wednesday, hitting GBX 306.50. 1,747,034 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,795,630. The company has a current ratio of 0.26, a quick ratio of 0.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 51.52. The firm has a market cap of 1.24 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.18, a PEG ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 0.80. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 325.97 and a two-hundred day moving average price of GBX 330.61. Great Portland Estates has a 1-year low of GBX 260 and a 1-year high of GBX 369.

In related news, insider Nick Sanderson acquired 88 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, October 31st. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 336 per share, with a total value of 295.68. Insiders have acquired a total of 419 shares of company stock worth $134,630 over the last ninety days. 1.53% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

About Great Portland Estates

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GPE is a FTSE 250 real estate investor and developer. GPE aims to deliver superior returns by unlocking the often hidden potential in commercial real estate in central London, creating high quality sustainable spaces for its customers and long-term value for its stakeholders.

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Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. lifted its position in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 17.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 24,875 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 3,686 shares during the quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc.s holdings in Pfizer were worth $603,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer during the 1st quarter worth about $27,000. Curio Wealth LLC raised its holdings in Pfizer by 36,600.0% in the 2nd quarter. Curio Wealth LLC now owns 1,101 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $27,000 after purchasing an additional 1,098 shares during the period. Bayforest Capital Ltd purchased a new position in Pfizer during the first quarter worth approximately $28,000. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in Pfizer in the second quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Finally, WPG Advisers LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Pfizer in the first quarter valued at approximately $35,000. 68.36% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Pfizer Stock Up 1.5%

Shares of NYSE PFE opened at $25.45 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $144.70 billion, a PE ratio of 13.54, a P/E/G ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a current ratio of 1.16, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. Pfizer Inc. has a 12-month low of $20.92 and a 12-month high of $27.69. The company has a 50-day moving average of $24.82 and a 200 day moving average of $24.46.

Pfizer Announces Dividend

Pfizer ( NYSE:PFE Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.87 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $16.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.94 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. Pfizer has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.000-3.150 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be issued a $0.43 dividend. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.8%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 7th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio is presently 100.00%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on PFE shares. Scotiabank began coverage on Pfizer in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. They set a sector outperform rating and a $30.00 target price on the stock. Citigroup lifted their target price on shares of Pfizer from $25.00 to $26.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. UBS Group restated a neutral rating and set a $28.00 price target on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Bank of America lifted their price objective on Pfizer from $28.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of Pfizer in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have assigned a Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $28.28.

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Pfizer Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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Copperleaf Capital LLC grew its holdings in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 11.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 6,406 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 671 shares during the quarter. Copperleaf Capital LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $1,167,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Legacy Investment Solutions LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Philip Morris International during the second quarter worth $25,000. Traub Capital Management LLC purchased a new position in Philip Morris International during the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. Abound Wealth Management increased its stake in shares of Philip Morris International by 566.7% during the second quarter. Abound Wealth Management now owns 160 shares of the companys stock worth $29,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares during the period. Kelly Lawrence W & Associates Inc. CA purchased a new position in Philip Morris International during the first quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Briaud Financial Planning Inc lifted its position in Philip Morris International by 266.7% in the second quarter. Briaud Financial Planning Inc now owns 165 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after purchasing an additional 120 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 78.63% of the companys stock.

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Philip Morris International Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE PM opened at $156.05 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $242.92 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.43. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 1 year low of $116.12 and a 1 year high of $186.69. The firms 50 day moving average price is $157.08 and its 200 day moving average price is $167.63.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 EPS for the quarter. Philip Morris International had a negative return on equity of 122.14% and a net margin of 9.33%.The firm had revenue of $8.12 billion during the quarter. As a group, equities analysts predict that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a dividend of $1.47 per share. This is a boost from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. This represents a $5.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 3rd. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is currently 106.52%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have recently issued reports on PM. Citigroup reissued a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Thursday, September 4th. KGI Securities began coverage on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Monday, August 4th. They set an outperform rating on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus set a $180.00 target price on Philip Morris International in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. UBS Group lowered their price objective on shares of Philip Morris International from $177.00 to $166.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, September 5th. Finally, Needham & Company LLC restated a buy rating and set a $195.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Twelve equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $189.56.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Philip Morris International

Philip Morris International Company Profile

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report).

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Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX  Free Report) by 14.8% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 46,368,000 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after purchasing an additional 5,978,841 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned 11.47% of Phillips 66 worth $5,531,702,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC lifted its position in shares of Phillips 66 by 62.1% during the 2nd quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 214 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $26,000 after acquiring an additional 82 shares during the period. Pinpoint Asset Management Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Phillips 66 in the 1st quarter worth approximately $29,000. Webster Bank N. A. increased its stake in Phillips 66 by 58.8% in the 2nd quarter. Webster Bank N. A. now owns 270 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $32,000 after purchasing an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. Nova Wealth Management Inc. purchased a new stake in Phillips 66 during the first quarter worth $37,000. Finally, GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. boosted its position in Phillips 66 by 111.5% during the first quarter. GKV Capital Management Co. Inc. now owns 330 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 174 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 76.93% of the companys stock.

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Insider Buying and Selling at Phillips 66

In other Phillips 66 news, EVP Vanessa Allen Sutherland sold 4,393 shares of Phillips 66 stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $140.00, for a total value of $615,020.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 34,587 shares in the company, valued at $4,842,180. The trade was a 11.27% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this link. Also, CFO Kevin J. Mitchell sold 30,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $138.00, for a total transaction of $4,140,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 89,771 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $12,388,398. This represents a 25.05% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold 38,786 shares of company stock worth $5,348,075 in the last 90 days. Insiders own 0.22% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

PSX has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. Barclays raised their price target on Phillips 66 from $132.00 to $141.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research report on Monday. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $150.00 target price (up from $145.00) on shares of Phillips 66 in a report on Friday, October 17th. TD Cowen upped their price target on shares of Phillips 66 from $140.00 to $145.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price target on shares of Phillips 66 from $154.00 to $162.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Phillips 66 in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have assigned a Buy rating and thirteen have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $145.71.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on PSX

Phillips 66 Price Performance

Phillips 66 stock opened at $138.43 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $55.78 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.82, a P/E/G ratio of 1.81 and a beta of 1.08. Phillips 66 has a 12-month low of $91.01 and a 12-month high of $143.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.60, a current ratio of 1.07 and a quick ratio of 0.79. The firms 50-day moving average is $134.22 and its two-hundred day moving average is $126.65.

Phillips 66 (NYSE:PSX  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The oil and gas company reported $2.52 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.14 by $0.38. Phillips 66 had a net margin of 1.12% and a return on equity of 5.51%. The business had revenue of $33.69 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $32.29 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $2.04 earnings per share. Equities analysts predict that Phillips 66 will post 6.8 earnings per share for the current year.

Phillips 66 Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $1.20 per share. This represents a $4.80 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. Phillips 66s dividend payout ratio is currently 131.15%.

About Phillips 66

(Free Report)

Phillips 66 operates as an energy manufacturing and logistics company in the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, and internationally. It operates through four segments: Midstream, Chemicals, Refining, and Marketing and Specialties (M&S). The Midstream segment transports crude oil and other feedstocks; delivers refined petroleum products to market; provides terminaling and storage services for crude oil and refined petroleum products; transports, stores, fractionates, exports, and markets natural gas liquids; provides other fee-based processing services; and gathers, processes, transports, and markets natural gas.

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Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Banco Santander, S.A. (NYSE:SAN  Free Report) by 18.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 69,191 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 10,650 shares during the quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc.s holdings in Banco Santander were worth $574,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Richardson Financial Services Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Banco Santander during the second quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Westside Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in Banco Santander during the 2nd quarter valued at $30,000. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp purchased a new stake in Banco Santander during the 2nd quarter valued at $30,000. Dogwood Wealth Management LLC bought a new stake in Banco Santander in the 2nd quarter worth $33,000. Finally, Smithfield Trust Co purchased a new position in shares of Banco Santander in the second quarter valued at about $30,000. 9.19% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

SAN has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Banco Santander from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b+) rating on shares of Banco Santander in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group lowered Banco Santander from a strong-buy rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Kepler Capital Markets cut Banco Santander from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, August 1st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have issued a Buy rating, one has given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Banco Santander currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Banco Santander Price Performance

Shares of SAN opened at $10.15 on Wednesday. Banco Santander, S.A. has a one year low of $4.43 and a one year high of $11.13. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $10.16 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $9.10. The firm has a market capitalization of $151.01 billion, a PE ratio of 10.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 1.05.

Banco Santander (NYSE:SAN  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The bank reported $0.23 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.25 by ($0.02). Banco Santander had a net margin of 17.90% and a return on equity of 11.92%. The firm had revenue of $17.80 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $15.32 billion. Banco Santander has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Analysts expect that Banco Santander, S.A. will post 0.83 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Banco Santander Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 6th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 31st were issued a dividend of $0.0956 per share. This represents a dividend yield of 263.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 31st. Banco Santanders payout ratio is 19.15%.

Banco Santander Company Profile

(Free Report)

Banco Santander, SA provides various financial services worldwide. The company operates through Retail Banking, Santander Corporate & Investment Banking, Wealth Management & Insurance, and PagoNxt segments. It offers demand and time deposits, mutual funds, and current and savings accounts; mortgages, consumer finance, loans, and various financing solutions; and project finance, debt capital markets, global transaction banking, and corporate finance services.

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Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jersey trimmed its holdings in Genpact Limited (NYSE:G  Free Report) by 2.6% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 61,181 shares of the business services providers stock after selling 1,639 shares during the period. Police & Firemen s Retirement System of New Jerseys holdings in Genpact were worth $2,693,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Richardson Financial Services Inc. acquired a new stake in Genpact in the first quarter valued at $35,000. Steph & Co. bought a new stake in shares of Genpact in the 2nd quarter worth about $37,000. Huntington National Bank raised its stake in shares of Genpact by 208.2% in the 2nd quarter. Huntington National Bank now owns 906 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $40,000 after purchasing an additional 612 shares in the last quarter. SVB Wealth LLC bought a new position in shares of Genpact during the first quarter worth about $41,000. Finally, Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. lifted its position in shares of Genpact by 104.9% during the second quarter. Mitsubishi UFJ Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 922 shares of the business services providers stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 472 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 96.03% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several analysts have issued reports on the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded Genpact from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research note on Saturday. Needham & Company LLC boosted their price target on Genpact from $50.00 to $53.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, August 8th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reduced their price objective on Genpact from $55.00 to $50.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, August 20th. Citigroup raised shares of Genpact to a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Genpact in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $51.13.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, SVP Piyush Mehta sold 76,902 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $42.58, for a total transaction of $3,274,487.16. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 134,880 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,743,190.40. The trade was a 36.31% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CEO Balkrishan Kalra sold 55,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $43.36, for a total value of $2,384,800.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 295,246 shares in the company, valued at approximately $12,801,866.56. This represents a 15.70% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last three months, insiders sold 161,183 shares of company stock worth $6,970,760. 2.80% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Genpact Price Performance

Shares of G opened at $43.78 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 1.51 and a quick ratio of 1.51. The company has a market cap of $7.55 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.12, a PEG ratio of 1.40 and a beta of 0.85. Genpact Limited has a 12 month low of $37.49 and a 12 month high of $56.76. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $41.11 and a 200 day moving average price of $43.08.

Genpact (NYSE:G  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The business services provider reported $0.97 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.90 by $0.07. Genpact had a net margin of 11.01% and a return on equity of 22.55%. The company had revenue of $1.29 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.27 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.85 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 6.6% compared to the same quarter last year. Genpact has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.600-3.610 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.930-0.940 EPS. On average, research analysts forecast that Genpact Limited will post 3.21 earnings per share for the current year.

Genpact Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 23rd. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, December 9th will be paid a $0.17 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 9th. This represents a $0.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.6%. Genpacts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 21.94%.

Genpact Profile

(Free Report)

Genpact Limited provides business process outsourcing and information technology services in India, rest of Asia, North and Latin America, and Europe. It operates through three segments: Financial services; Consumer and Healthcare; and High Tech and Manufacturing. The Financial Services segment offers retail customer onboarding, customer service, collections, card servicing operations, loan and payment operations, commercial loan, equipment and auto loan, mortgage origination, compliance services, reporting and monitoring, and wealth management operations support; financial crime and risk management services; and underwriting support, new business processing, policy administration, claims management, catastrophe modeling and actuarial services, as well as property and casualty claims.

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Primecap Management Co. CA lessened its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 0.1% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 22,944,650 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after selling 25,983 shares during the quarter. Primecap Management Co. CA owned about 1.13% of Bristol Myers Squibb worth $1,062,108,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of BMY. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.8% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 194,925,206 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $9,023,088,000 after buying an additional 3,522,202 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 0.5% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 60,606,905 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,696,415,000 after purchasing an additional 306,430 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 46,176,690 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,132,976,000 after purchasing an additional 723,459 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp increased its holdings in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 25,974,504 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,584,185,000 after purchasing an additional 1,316,144 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 297.0% in the first quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 23,728,443 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,447,198,000 after purchasing an additional 17,750,938 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total transaction of $2,650,480.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 167,379 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,922,048.07. This represents a 25.07% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Bristol Myers Squibb Trading Up 0.6%

NYSE BMY opened at $47.09 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $95.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.99, a P/E/G ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. The company has a 50-day moving average of $45.34 and a 200-day moving average of $46.61. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 12 month low of $42.52 and a 12 month high of $63.33. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 1.11.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.52 by $0.11. The company had revenue of $12.22 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.75 billion. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.80 EPS. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. As a group, equities analysts predict that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a $0.62 dividend. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs payout ratio is currently 83.78%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms have recently issued reports on BMY. Scotiabank began coverage on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. They set a sector perform rating and a $45.00 price target for the company. Daiwa America cut Bristol Myers Squibb from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Daiwa Capital Markets lowered shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Finally, Citigroup lowered their price target on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from $48.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Monday. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fifteen have assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $54.42.

Read Our Latest Research Report on Bristol Myers Squibb

Bristol Myers Squibb Profile

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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Stantec Inc. (TSE:STN  Free Report) (NYSE:STN)  Analysts at Atb Cap Markets dropped their Q1 2026 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for Stantec in a report issued on Sunday, November 16th. Atb Cap Markets analyst C. Murray now expects that the company will post earnings per share of $1.39 for the quarter, down from their previous forecast of $1.44. Atb Cap Markets also issued estimates for Stantecs Q3 2026 earnings at $1.59 EPS, Q4 2026 earnings at $1.44 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $5.90 EPS.

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Stantec (TSE:STN  Get Free Report) (NYSE:STN) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 13th. The company reported C$1.53 EPS for the quarter. The business had revenue of C($435.10) million for the quarter. Stantec had a return on equity of 12.08% and a net margin of 4.78%.

Several other brokerages have also weighed in on STN. TD Securities increased their target price on shares of Stantec from C$176.00 to C$183.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Raymond James Financial upped their price objective on shares of Stantec from C$155.00 to C$160.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Friday, August 15th. Stifel Nicolaus lifted their target price on shares of Stantec from C$160.00 to C$175.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, October 6th. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price target on Stantec from C$153.00 to C$168.00 in a research note on Monday. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group raised their price target on Stantec from C$150.00 to C$165.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Nine investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of C$162.91.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Stantec

Stantec Stock Down 2.9%

Shares of TSE:STN opened at C$135.40 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of C$15.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.93, a PEG ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 0.82. Stantec has a 12-month low of C$107.23 and a 12-month high of C$160.05. The business has a 50-day moving average price of C$152.72 and a 200 day moving average price of C$148.55. The company has a current ratio of 1.42, a quick ratio of 1.46 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 85.29.

Stantec Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, October 15th were paid a $0.225 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 29th. This represents a $0.90 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. Stantecs payout ratio is 20.87%.

About Stantec

(Get Free Report)

Stantec Inc is a sustainable engineering, architecture, and environmental consulting company. The company is geographically diversified in three regional operating units namely Canada, the United States and Global, offering similar services across all regions. The company offers services in various sectors across the project life cycle through five business operating units infrastructure, water, buildings, environmental services, and energy and resources.

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Kayne Anderson BDC (NYSE:KBDC  Get Free Report) had its price target reduced by equities researchers at Royal Bank Of Canada from $17.00 to $16.00 in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas target price suggests a potential upside of 8.11% from the companys current price.

Several other research firms have also commented on KBDC. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on shares of Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.00 to $15.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered their target price on shares of Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.50 to $16.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, UBS Group decreased their price objective on Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.50 to $15.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Kayne Anderson BDC presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $15.50.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on KBDC

Kayne Anderson BDC Price Performance

Kayne Anderson BDC stock traded up $0.02 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $14.80. The company had a trading volume of 60,689 shares, compared to its average volume of 198,579. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is $14.14 and its 200-day simple moving average is $15.11. The company has a market capitalization of $1.01 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.80 and a beta of 0.17. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a current ratio of 1.46 and a quick ratio of 1.46. Kayne Anderson BDC has a 1 year low of $13.06 and a 1 year high of $17.99.

Kayne Anderson BDC (NYSE:KBDC  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 10th. The company reported $0.43 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.40 by $0.03. The firm had revenue of $61.37 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $53.97 million. Kayne Anderson BDC had a return on equity of 10.40% and a net margin of 46.55%. On average, equities analysts predict that Kayne Anderson BDC will post 2.06 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Cerity Partners LLC increased its stake in Kayne Anderson BDC by 628.4% during the 1st quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 73,073 shares of the companys stock worth $1,185,000 after buying an additional 63,041 shares during the period. HighTower Advisors LLC acquired a new position in shares of Kayne Anderson BDC in the first quarter worth about $269,000. Requisite Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Kayne Anderson BDC by 130.4% in the second quarter. Requisite Capital Management LLC now owns 842,721 shares of the companys stock valued at $13,197,000 after purchasing an additional 476,938 shares during the last quarter. Accelerate Investment Advisors LLC grew its stake in Kayne Anderson BDC by 50.0% during the 2nd quarter. Accelerate Investment Advisors LLC now owns 62,743 shares of the companys stock valued at $957,000 after purchasing an additional 20,915 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Merit Financial Group LLC purchased a new stake in Kayne Anderson BDC during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $26,525,000.

Kayne Anderson BDC Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Kayne Anderson BDC Inc is a business development company which invests primarily in first lien senior secured loans, with a secondary focus on unitranche and split-lien loans to middle market companies. Kayne Anderson BDC Inc is based in CHICAGO.

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Savant Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Shinhan Financial Group Co Ltd (NYSE:SHG  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund bought 6,008 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $271,000.

A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of the stock. Westside Investment Management Inc. bought a new stake in Shinhan Financial Group in the second quarter valued at $47,000. Farther Finance Advisors LLC increased its position in Shinhan Financial Group by 240.7% in the 2nd quarter. Farther Finance Advisors LLC now owns 1,908 shares of the banks stock valued at $86,000 after buying an additional 1,348 shares in the last quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC raised its stake in Shinhan Financial Group by 124.9% during the 2nd quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 3,301 shares of the banks stock worth $149,000 after buying an additional 1,833 shares during the period. Foster Group Inc. bought a new position in Shinhan Financial Group in the second quarter worth approximately $201,000. Finally, Drive Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Shinhan Financial Group in the second quarter worth approximately $201,000. 7.76% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Shinhan Financial Group Stock Down 0.5%

Shares of NYSE:SHG opened at $52.87 on Wednesday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $51.34 and its 200 day moving average is $47.35. Shinhan Financial Group Co Ltd has a 12-month low of $28.76 and a 12-month high of $56.00. The stock has a market cap of $25.67 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.30, a PEG ratio of 0.56 and a beta of 1.00. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.48.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the company. Wall Street Zen downgraded Shinhan Financial Group from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 30th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Shinhan Financial Group in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. Finally, Zacks Research downgraded shares of Shinhan Financial Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, September 24th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

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Shinhan Financial Group Profile

(Free Report)

Shinhan Financial Group Co, Ltd. provides financial products and services in South Korea and internationally. The company operates through six segments: Banking, Credit Card, Securities, Insurance, Credit, and Others. It offers retail banking services, including demand, savings, and fixed deposit-taking; checking accounts; mortgage and home equity, and retail lending; electronic banking and automatic teller machines (ATM); and bill paying, payroll and check-cashing, currency exchange, and wire fund transfer services.

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SSAB (OTCMKTS:SSAAY  Get Free Report) shares gapped up prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $3.23, but opened at $3.49. SSAB shares last traded at $3.49, with a volume of 463 shares.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Danske upgraded shares of SSAB from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold.

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SSAB Stock Up 0.3%

The firm has a market cap of $6.88 billion, a PE ratio of 13.80 and a beta of 1.26. The company has a current ratio of 2.72, a quick ratio of 1.49 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.09. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $3.18 and its 200 day simple moving average is $3.08.

SSAB (OTCMKTS:SSAAY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The basic materials company reported $0.08 EPS for the quarter. The company had revenue of $2.41 billion during the quarter. SSAB had a return on equity of 7.45% and a net margin of 5.17%. As a group, equities research analysts expect that SSAB will post 0.24 earnings per share for the current year.

SSAB Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

SSAB AB (publ) produces and sells steel products in Sweden, Finland, Rest of Europe, the United States, and internationally. It operates through five segments: SSAB Special Steels, SSAB Europe, SSAB Americas, Tibnor, and Ruukki Construction. The SSAB Special Steels segment offers quenched and tempered steels, and advanced high-strength steel products for steel and plate production.

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Stonebrook Private Inc. raised its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:IWF  Free Report) by 88.4% in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 1,300 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after buying an additional 610 shares during the period. Stonebrook Private Inc.s holdings in iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF were worth $552,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the company. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC grew its holdings in iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 722,329.3% during the second quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 17,851,227 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $7,579,274,000 after acquiring an additional 17,848,756 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF during the 1st quarter worth approximately $424,812,000. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 311.4% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,285,798 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $464,289,000 after purchasing an additional 973,250 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp lifted its stake in shares of iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 4.3% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 5,109,809 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $1,845,101,000 after purchasing an additional 208,598 shares during the period. Finally, Jones Financial Companies Lllp boosted its holdings in iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF by 67.5% during the first quarter. Jones Financial Companies Lllp now owns 515,921 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $186,294,000 after buying an additional 207,858 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.33% of the companys stock.

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iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF Stock Performance

IWF opened at $460.86 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average of $471.31 and a two-hundred day moving average of $439.46. The stock has a market capitalization of $119.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 33.43 and a beta of 1.13. iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF has a fifty-two week low of $308.67 and a fifty-two week high of $493.00.

About iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF

iShares Russell 1000 Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares Russell 1000 Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks investment returns that correspond generally to the price and yield performance of the Russell 1000 Growth Index (the Index). The Index measures the performance of equity securities of Russell 1000 index issuers with relatively higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth.

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Empirical Finance LLC boosted its stake in The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 11,461 shares of the investment management companys stock after buying an additional 72 shares during the period. Empirical Finance LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $8,112,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Winthrop Advisory Group LLC lifted its position in The Goldman Sachs Group by 3.4% in the 2nd quarter. Winthrop Advisory Group LLC now owns 429 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $303,000 after purchasing an additional 14 shares during the last quarter. Avion Wealth increased its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 31.1% in the second quarter. Avion Wealth now owns 59 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $41,000 after purchasing an additional 14 shares during the period. KPP Advisory Services LLC raised its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 2.1% during the second quarter. KPP Advisory Services LLC now owns 668 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $473,000 after buying an additional 14 shares during the last quarter. Dumont & Blake Investment Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 0.7% during the second quarter. Dumont & Blake Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,241 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,586,000 after buying an additional 15 shares during the period. Finally, Mechanics Financial Corp boosted its position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 5.8% during the second quarter. Mechanics Financial Corp now owns 294 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $208,000 after buying an additional 16 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 71.21% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several brokerages have weighed in on GS. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $850.00 to $870.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Morgan Stanley lowered their price target on The Goldman Sachs Group from $854.00 to $828.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. BNP Paribas Exane upped their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $685.00 to $775.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated a neutral rating and issued a $843.00 target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft boosted their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $725.00 to $790.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, The Goldman Sachs Group currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $786.00.

The Goldman Sachs Group Price Performance

NYSE:GS opened at $777.11 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $786.05 and its 200 day moving average price is $714.77. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 52-week low of $439.38 and a 52-week high of $841.28. The firm has a market cap of $233.08 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.79, a PEG ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $10.27 by $1.98. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 13.18% and a return on equity of 14.79%. The company had revenue of $15.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.68 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm posted $8.40 EPS. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 19.5% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Investors of record on Tuesday, December 2nd will be issued a dividend of $4.00 per share. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.1%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 32.50%.

Insider Transactions at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other The Goldman Sachs Group news, COO John E. Waldron sold 9,244 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $750.11, for a total value of $6,934,016.84. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer owned 115,268 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $86,463,679.48. This represents a 7.42% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Company insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

The Goldman Sachs Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Creative Planning lessened its holdings in shares of The Hartford Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:HIG  Free Report) by 5.9% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 88,116 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 5,480 shares during the quarter. Creative Plannings holdings in The Hartford Insurance Group were worth $11,179,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Private Wealth Management Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of The Hartford Insurance Group by 151.1% during the 2nd quarter. Private Wealth Management Group LLC now owns 221 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 133 shares during the last quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. boosted its stake in The Hartford Insurance Group by 123.8% during the 1st quarter. Meeder Asset Management Inc. now owns 291 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 161 shares during the last quarter. Signature Resources Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in The Hartford Insurance Group during the 2nd quarter worth $38,000. Addison Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of The Hartford Insurance Group by 129.3% in the 2nd quarter. Addison Advisors LLC now owns 321 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $41,000 after purchasing an additional 181 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC increased its position in shares of The Hartford Insurance Group by 274.5% in the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 352 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $44,000 after purchasing an additional 258 shares during the last quarter. 93.42% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms recently commented on HIG. Evercore ISI lifted their price target on The Hartford Insurance Group from $133.00 to $137.00 and gave the stock an in-line rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. UBS Group lifted their target price on The Hartford Insurance Group from $150.00 to $152.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on The Hartford Insurance Group from $147.00 to $140.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on The Hartford Insurance Group from $140.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, Wolfe Research started coverage on shares of The Hartford Insurance Group in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. They set a peer perform rating for the company. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have issued a Buy rating and eight have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $140.86.

The Hartford Insurance Group Stock Performance

Shares of HIG stock opened at $133.14 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $37.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.88, a PEG ratio of 1.19 and a beta of 0.69. The business has a 50 day moving average of $129.54 and a two-hundred day moving average of $128.16. The Hartford Insurance Group, Inc. has a 52 week low of $104.93 and a 52 week high of $135.27. The company has a quick ratio of 0.31, a current ratio of 0.32 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24.

The Hartford Insurance Group (NYSE:HIG  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The insurance provider reported $3.78 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.02 by $0.76. The business had revenue of $1.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.17 billion. The Hartford Insurance Group had a return on equity of 21.07% and a net margin of 12.75%.The businesss quarterly revenue was up 7.1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.53 EPS. As a group, analysts anticipate that The Hartford Insurance Group, Inc. will post 11.11 EPS for the current year.

The Hartford Insurance Group Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, January 5th. Shareholders of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a $0.60 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. This is a positive change from The Hartford Insurance Groups previous quarterly dividend of $0.52. This represents a $2.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.8%. The Hartford Insurance Groups dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 19.61%.

Insider Buying and Selling at The Hartford Insurance Group

In other news, EVP Lori A. Rodden sold 7,841 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Wednesday, October 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $122.41, for a total transaction of $959,816.81. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 18,400 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,252,344. The trade was a 29.88% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, EVP Donald Christian Hunt sold 2,124 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, September 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $133.87, for a total transaction of $284,339.88. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders own 1.50% of the companys stock.

The Hartford Insurance Group Profile

(Free Report)

The Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides insurance and financial services to individual and business customers in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. Its Commercial Lines segment offers insurance coverages, including workers' compensation, property, automobile, general and professional liability, package business, umbrella, fidelity and surety, marine, livestock, accident, health, and reinsurance through regional offices, branches, sales and policyholder service centers, independent retail agents and brokers, wholesale agents, and reinsurance brokers.

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Sierra Legacy Group lowered its stake in shares of The TJX Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TJX  Free Report) by 2.3% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 34,612 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock after selling 825 shares during the quarter. TJX Companies accounts for about 3.3% of Sierra Legacy Groups portfolio, making the stock its 5th largest position. Sierra Legacy Groups holdings in TJX Companies were worth $4,274,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of TJX. TCTC Holdings LLC raised its position in TJX Companies by 210.1% in the 1st quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 214 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 145 shares in the last quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of TJX Companies during the second quarter worth approximately $28,000. Legacy Investment Solutions LLC acquired a new stake in TJX Companies in the second quarter valued at approximately $32,000. True Wealth Design LLC lifted its stake in TJX Companies by 121.1% in the second quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 272 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $34,000 after acquiring an additional 149 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Activest Wealth Management grew its holdings in TJX Companies by 4,485.7% during the 1st quarter. Activest Wealth Management now owns 321 shares of the apparel and home fashions retailers stock worth $39,000 after acquiring an additional 314 shares in the last quarter. 91.09% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on TJX shares. Bank of America raised their price objective on shares of TJX Companies from $145.00 to $150.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Sanford C. Bernstein lifted their price target on TJX Companies from $145.00 to $152.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, August 21st. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on TJX Companies from $150.00 to $162.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, August 21st. Wall Street Zen raised TJX Companies from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, August 23rd. Finally, Erste Group Bank began coverage on shares of TJX Companies in a research report on Friday, September 5th. They issued a buy rating on the stock. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-three have issued a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $151.75.

TJX Companies Stock Performance

Shares of TJX opened at $145.86 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.32, a quick ratio of 0.52 and a current ratio of 1.17. The stock has a market capitalization of $162.34 billion, a P/E ratio of 33.23, a P/E/G ratio of 3.14 and a beta of 0.90. The TJX Companies, Inc. has a 1 year low of $112.10 and a 1 year high of $148.11. The companys fifty day moving average is $142.54 and its two-hundred day moving average is $133.76.

TJX Companies (NYSE:TJX  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 20th. The apparel and home fashions retailer reported $1.10 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.01 by $0.09. The firm had revenue of $14.40 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $14.12 billion. TJX Companies had a return on equity of 58.63% and a net margin of 8.59%.TJX Companiess revenue was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $0.96 earnings per share. On average, sell-side analysts predict that The TJX Companies, Inc. will post 4.18 earnings per share for the current year.

TJX Companies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, November 13th will be given a $0.425 dividend. This represents a $1.70 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.2%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, November 13th. TJX Companiess dividend payout ratio is currently 38.72%.

TJX Companies Company Profile

(Free Report)

The TJX Companies, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an off-price apparel and home fashions retailer in the United States, Canada, Europe, and Australia. It operates through four segments: Marmaxx, HomeGoods, TJX Canada, and TJX International. The company sells family apparel, including footwear and accessories; home fashions, such as home basics, furniture, rugs, lighting products, giftware, soft home products, decorative accessories, tabletop, and cookware, as well as expanded pet, and gourmet food departments; jewelry and accessories; and other merchandise.

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Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH grew its stake in shares of OUTFRONT Media Inc. (NYSE:OUT  Free Report) by 31.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 1,152,233 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 273,873 shares during the quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH owned about 0.69% of OUTFRONT Media worth $18,804,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisors Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in OUTFRONT Media in the first quarter valued at about $22,330,000. Boothbay Fund Management LLC bought a new position in OUTFRONT Media in the 1st quarter valued at about $11,388,000. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of OUTFRONT Media by 7.6% in the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 7,836,183 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $126,476,000 after buying an additional 555,568 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of OUTFRONT Media by 9.9% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 4,980,994 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $80,393,000 after acquiring an additional 448,993 shares during the period. Finally, Westwood Holdings Group Inc. bought a new stake in shares of OUTFRONT Media during the 1st quarter worth approximately $7,086,000.

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Insider Buying and Selling at OUTFRONT Media

In other news, major shareholder Pep Viii Gp Llc sold 8,400,000 shares of OUTFRONT Media stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, September 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $18.06, for a total value of $151,704,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 8,913,813 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $160,983,462.78. This trade represents a 48.52% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Mark Emilio Bonanni sold 4,126 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $19.38, for a total value of $79,961.88. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 4,170 shares in the company, valued at $80,814.60. This represents a 49.73% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. 0.47% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

OUT has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Citigroup reissued a buy rating and issued a $23.00 price objective (up from $20.00) on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. New Street Research set a $24.00 price target on OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. TD Cowen upgraded OUTFRONT Media from a hold rating to a buy rating and set a $24.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Barrington Research reaffirmed an outperform rating and issued a $21.00 price objective on shares of OUTFRONT Media in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised OUTFRONT Media from a neutral rating to an overweight rating and boosted their target price for the stock from $19.00 to $25.00 in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $22.00.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on OUT

OUTFRONT Media Price Performance

OUTFRONT Media stock opened at $22.24 on Wednesday. The stocks 50 day moving average is $18.58 and its 200 day moving average is $17.66. OUTFRONT Media Inc. has a one year low of $12.95 and a one year high of $22.28. The firm has a market cap of $3.72 billion, a P/E ratio of 32.70, a P/E/G ratio of 1.22 and a beta of 1.82. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 4.75, a current ratio of 0.79 and a quick ratio of 0.79.

OUTFRONT Media (NYSE:OUT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The financial services provider reported $0.29 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.50 by ($0.21). The firm had revenue of $467.50 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $458.32 million. OUTFRONT Media had a return on equity of 21.56% and a net margin of 6.86%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 3.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.19 EPS. As a group, research analysts expect that OUTFRONT Media Inc. will post 1.59 EPS for the current year.

OUTFRONT Media Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Friday, December 5th will be issued a $0.30 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $1.20 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.4%. OUTFRONT Medias payout ratio is presently 176.47%.

About OUTFRONT Media

(Free Report)

OUTFRONT Media, Inc leases advertising space on out-of-home advertising structures and sites. Its inventory consists of billboard displays, which are primarily located on the most heavily traveled highways & roadways, and transit advertising displays operated under exclusive multi-year contracts with municipalities in large cities across the U.S.

Further Reading

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Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 1.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 69,997,629 shares of the medical research companys stock after acquiring an additional 798,801 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned approximately 11.92% of Edwards Lifesciences worth $5,474,515,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. Quantbot Technologies LP purchased a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences during the 1st quarter worth about $26,000. SouthState Corp purchased a new position in Edwards Lifesciences in the 1st quarter valued at about $27,000. Rosenberg Matthew Hamilton acquired a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the 2nd quarter worth about $28,000. Costello Asset Management INC purchased a new stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the first quarter worth about $29,000. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC grew its holdings in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 57.8% during the second quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 366 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $29,000 after buying an additional 134 shares in the last quarter. 79.46% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity

In related news, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.55, for a total value of $84,201.00. Following the transaction, the vice president owned 22,002 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,816,265.10. This trade represents a 4.43% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through the SEC website. Also, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 13,000 shares of Edwards Lifesciences stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.08, for a total transaction of $1,080,040.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 39,898 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,314,725.84. This trade represents a 24.58% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Edwards Lifesciences Stock Down 0.7%

Shares of NYSE EW opened at $84.13 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $48.82 billion, a PE ratio of 12.11, a P/E/G ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.03. The company has a quick ratio of 3.87, a current ratio of 4.68 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06. The firm has a fifty day moving average of $78.37 and a 200-day moving average of $77.88. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a 52-week low of $65.94 and a 52-week high of $87.21.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The medical research company reported $0.67 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.59 by $0.08. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 15.01% and a net margin of 72.96%.The firm had revenue of $1.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.49 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.67 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% compared to the same quarter last year. Edwards Lifesciences has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.560-2.620 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.580-0.640 EPS. On average, analysts anticipate that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 EPS for the current year.

Analyst Ratings Changes

EW has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Mizuho upped their price objective on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $90.00 to $100.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their price target on Edwards Lifesciences from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. UBS Group reissued a neutral rating and set a $90.00 price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Raymond James Financial upgraded Edwards Lifesciences from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $96.00 price objective on the stock in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $84.00 to $88.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, August 7th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Buy rating, ten have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $91.39.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on EW

Edwards Lifesciences Profile

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names.

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Vise Technologies Inc. purchased a new stake in Banco Santander Brasil SA (NYSE:BSBR  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The firm purchased 17,253 shares of the banks stock, valued at approximately $94,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BSBR. American Century Companies Inc. grew its position in Banco Santander Brasil by 11.9% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 614,264 shares of the banks stock worth $2,893,000 after acquiring an additional 65,333 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its holdings in shares of Banco Santander Brasil by 74.0% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,606,117 shares of the banks stock valued at $7,565,000 after purchasing an additional 683,045 shares in the last quarter. Cordatus Wealth Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Banco Santander Brasil in the 1st quarter valued at $611,000. XTX Topco Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Banco Santander Brasil in the 1st quarter valued at $87,000. Finally, GAMMA Investing LLC boosted its holdings in Banco Santander Brasil by 27.5% in the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 20,256 shares of the banks stock worth $110,000 after purchasing an additional 4,372 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 14.53% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several equities analysts have weighed in on the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded Banco Santander Brasil from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Banco Santander Brasil in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group downgraded Banco Santander Brasil from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $5.35.

Banco Santander Brasil Stock Up 0.1%

Banco Santander Brasil stock opened at $6.28 on Wednesday. Banco Santander Brasil SA has a 52 week low of $3.75 and a 52 week high of $6.43. The company has a current ratio of 1.37, a quick ratio of 1.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.28. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $5.59 and its 200-day simple moving average is $5.31.

Banco Santander Brasil Increases Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 17th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, October 23rd were issued a dividend of $0.0983 per share. This represents a $0.39 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 6.3%. This is a boost from Banco Santander Brasils previous quarterly dividend of $0.07. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 23rd.

Banco Santander Brasil Profile

(Free Report)

Banco Santander (Brasil) SA, together with its subsidiaries, provides various banking products and services to individuals, small and medium enterprises, and corporate customers in Brazil and internationally. The company operates through Commercial Banking and Global Wholesale Banking segments. It offers local loans, commercial financing options, development bank funds, and cash management services; export and import financing, guarantees, structuring of asset services.

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of SPDR Gold Shares (NYSEARCA:GLD  Free Report) by 1.2% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 52,517 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 604 shares during the period. Wealthspire Advisors LLCs holdings in SPDR Gold Shares were worth $16,009,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. American National Bank & Trust grew its position in shares of SPDR Gold Shares by 52.4% during the second quarter. American National Bank & Trust now owns 291 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $89,000 after buying an additional 100 shares in the last quarter. StrongBox Wealth LLC boosted its stake in SPDR Gold Shares by 10.1% during the 2nd quarter. StrongBox Wealth LLC now owns 1,487 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $453,000 after acquiring an additional 136 shares during the last quarter. Beaumont Financial Advisors LLC grew its holdings in SPDR Gold Shares by 6.5% during the 2nd quarter. Beaumont Financial Advisors LLC now owns 3,509 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $1,070,000 after acquiring an additional 215 shares in the last quarter. TD Private Client Wealth LLC grew its holdings in SPDR Gold Shares by 14.6% during the 2nd quarter. TD Private Client Wealth LLC now owns 51,235 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $15,618,000 after acquiring an additional 6,540 shares in the last quarter. Finally, ST Germain D J Co. Inc. increased its position in shares of SPDR Gold Shares by 151.5% in the 2nd quarter. ST Germain D J Co. Inc. now owns 1,386 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $422,000 after purchasing an additional 835 shares during the last quarter. 42.19% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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SPDR Gold Shares Stock Performance

NYSEARCA:GLD opened at $374.35 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $135.48 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -32.43 and a beta of 0.09. SPDR Gold Shares has a one year low of $238.73 and a one year high of $403.30. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $363.91 and a 200 day simple moving average of $328.51.

About SPDR Gold Shares

SPDR Gold Trust (the Trust) is an investment trust. The investment objective of the Trust is for the Shares to reflect the performance of the price of gold bullion, less the Trusts expenses. The Trusts business activity is the investment of gold. The Trust creates and redeems Shares from time to time, but in one or more Baskets (a Basket equals a block of 100,000 Shares).

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 109.0% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 97,180 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 50,672 shares during the period. Wealthspire Advisors LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $17,699,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Perennial Investment Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 22.0% during the 2nd quarter. Perennial Investment Advisors LLC now owns 2,291 shares of the companys stock worth $417,000 after purchasing an additional 413 shares during the last quarter. JW Asset Management LLC increased its position in Philip Morris International by 48.3% in the 2nd quarter. JW Asset Management LLC now owns 15,350 shares of the companys stock worth $2,796,000 after buying an additional 5,000 shares during the period. United Advisor Group LLC increased its position in Philip Morris International by 2.8% in the 2nd quarter. United Advisor Group LLC now owns 10,437 shares of the companys stock worth $1,901,000 after buying an additional 289 shares during the period. First American Trust FSB lifted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 2.3% during the second quarter. First American Trust FSB now owns 57,666 shares of the companys stock worth $10,503,000 after buying an additional 1,284 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Philip Morris International by 1.6% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 142,857,055 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,018,555,000 after acquiring an additional 2,235,380 shares during the period. 78.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Philip Morris International Stock Performance

NYSE:PM opened at $156.05 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day moving average of $157.08 and a 200-day moving average of $167.63. The company has a market capitalization of $242.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.27, a PEG ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.43. Philip Morris International Inc. has a 52 week low of $116.12 and a 52 week high of $186.69.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

Philip Morris International ( NYSE:PM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 earnings per share for the quarter. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.33% and a negative return on equity of 122.14%. The business had revenue of $8.12 billion for the quarter. Sell-side analysts forecast that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were issued a $1.47 dividend. This represents a $5.88 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This is a boost from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is currently 106.52%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on PM. Needham & Company LLC reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $195.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Barclays reduced their price target on shares of Philip Morris International from $220.00 to $180.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Monday. Stifel Nicolaus set a $180.00 price objective on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Morgan Stanley set a $175.00 price objective on shares of Philip Morris International and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Twelve analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $189.56.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on PM

About Philip Morris International

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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Wpp Plc (NYSE:WPP  Get Free Report) shares gapped up prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $18.95, but opened at $20.69. WPP shares last traded at $20.9960, with a volume of 603,337 shares trading hands.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

WPP has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Wall Street Zen downgraded WPP from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research report on Sunday, September 21st. Kepler Capital Markets downgraded WPP from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of WPP in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Barclays restated an underweight rating on shares of WPP in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of WPP from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have given a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Reduce.

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WPP Stock Up 1.6%

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $22.93 and a 200-day moving average price of $29.19.

Several institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in WPP by 0.5% in the third quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 10,186,191 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $255,164,000 after purchasing an additional 47,289 shares during the last quarter. Mondrian Investment Partners LTD purchased a new position in WPP during the third quarter valued at approximately $79,947,000. Invesco Ltd. lifted its holdings in WPP by 50.8% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,448,296 shares of the business services providers stock valued at $92,937,000 after acquiring an additional 824,336 shares during the period. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP boosted its position in WPP by 12.3% in the 3rd quarter. Dimensional Fund Advisors LP now owns 861,579 shares of the business services providers stock worth $21,555,000 after purchasing an additional 94,162 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Brandes Investment Partners LP grew its stake in shares of WPP by 12.2% during the 2nd quarter. Brandes Investment Partners LP now owns 626,371 shares of the business services providers stock worth $21,930,000 after purchasing an additional 68,271 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 4.34% of the companys stock.

About WPP

(Get Free Report)

WPP plc, a creative transformation company, provides communications, experience, commerce, and technology services in North America, the United Kingdom, Western Continental Europe, the Asia Pacific, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Central and Eastern Europe. The company operates through three segments: Global Integrated Agencies, Public Relations, and Specialist Agencies.

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SW China's Chongqing resumes passenger air route to Moscow

Xinhua) 09:55, November 19, 2025

TIANJIN, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- A direct passenger air route linking southwest China's Chongqing Municipality with the Russian capital of Moscow was resumed on Tuesday, according to its operator, Tianjin Airlines.

Served by an Airbus A330 aircraft, outbound flights depart from Chongqing at 10:55 a.m. Beijing Time on Tuesday and arrive in Moscow at 2:55 p.m. local time. Return flights depart Moscow at 4:40 p.m. local time on the same day and arrive in Chongqing at 5:45 a.m. Beijing Time on Wednesday.

The airlines will operate the round-trip flight until late February 2026, and plans to expand to two round-trip flights per week in March 2026.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
China is not a threat! a Labour minister defiantly shouted.

Whats that sticking out of your arse? someone asked.

According to an NHS proctologist, the minister has had a Chinese spy lodged firmly up his rectum for over 6 months and whats worse, he has been relaying everything the MP says to CCP headquarters in Beijing daily via his Huawei Chinese spy phone.

Its not just what the minister says that is spied on but what he eats as well, it seems, the proctologist revealed.

Extracting the Chinese spy from the ministers anus is scheduled for next Tuesday, and the operation could take as much as four hours.

We tried to entice the little shit out with a bowl of piss eggs, which is a Chinese delicacy. The traditional dish comes from Dongyang, Zhejiang, China, in which eggs are boiled in the urine of young boys, preferably under the age of ten. Through our scanner, we saw him licking his lips in anticipation, but he eventually halted, probably remembered his Chinese spy training to resist temptation, another doctor at the hospital revealed.

The Labour government are desperate to stay in Beijings good books because they think the Chinese will save the UK from the Labour governments mismanagement of the economy. Despite a vast spy network in parliament, the Chinese threat is apparently not a threat according to Labour.
Acadian Asset Management LLC grew its stake in JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE:JPM  Free Report) by 65.2% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 681,512 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 268,977 shares during the period. Acadian Asset Management LLCs holdings in JPMorgan Chase & Co. were worth $197,565,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

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Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in JPM. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC increased its stake in JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 609,867.5% during the second quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 72,897,211 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $21,133,630,000 after acquiring an additional 72,885,260 shares during the period. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 2.7% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 20,548,182 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $5,040,469,000 after acquiring an additional 548,853 shares during the period. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC lifted its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 5.1% in the 1st quarter. UBS AM A Distinct Business Unit of UBS Asset Management Americas LLC now owns 18,441,044 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,523,588,000 after acquiring an additional 890,553 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. during the 1st quarter worth approximately $3,972,807,000. Finally, Invesco Ltd. increased its position in shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. by 4.1% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 13,754,558 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $3,373,993,000 after purchasing an additional 547,110 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 71.55% of the companys stock.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Price Performance

JPM opened at $299.32 on Wednesday. The company has a fifty day moving average price of $307.69 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $290.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $814.83 billion, a PE ratio of 14.83, a P/E/G ratio of 1.84 and a beta of 1.14. JPMorgan Chase & Co. has a 52 week low of $202.16 and a 52 week high of $322.25. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.26, a quick ratio of 0.88 and a current ratio of 0.86.

JPMorgan Chase & Co. Increases Dividend

JPMorgan Chase & Co. ( NYSE:JPM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The financial services provider reported $5.07 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $4.83 by $0.24. JPMorgan Chase & Co. had a return on equity of 17.18% and a net margin of 20.90%.The business had revenue of $47.12 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $44.42 billion. During the same period last year, the company earned $4.37 EPS. The firms revenue was up 8.8% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, analysts anticipate that JPMorgan Chase & Co. will post 18.1 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Monday, October 6th were issued a dividend of $1.50 per share. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.0%. This is an increase from JPMorgan Chase & Co.s previous quarterly dividend of $1.40. The ex-dividend date was Monday, October 6th. JPMorgan Chase & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 29.72%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on JPM shares. Wells Fargo & Company increased their price objective on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $345.00 to $350.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Barclays increased their price target on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $330.00 to $342.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. DZ Bank restated a neutral rating on shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Dbs Bank upgraded JPMorgan Chase & Co. to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Daiwa Capital Markets raised their target price on JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $330.00 to $332.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have assigned a Buy rating, nine have given a Hold rating and three have issued a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, JPMorgan Chase & Co. currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $326.38.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on JPMorgan Chase & Co.

Insider Activity

In related news, insider Robin Leopold sold 966 shares of JPMorgan Chase & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $311.92, for a total transaction of $301,314.72. Following the transaction, the insider owned 58,479 shares of the companys stock, valued at $18,240,769.68. This trade represents a 1.63% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, Director Linda Bammann sold 9,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $297.94, for a total transaction of $2,830,430.00. Following the transaction, the director owned 82,207 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $24,492,753.58. This represents a 10.36% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. 0.47% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About JPMorgan Chase & Co.

(Free Report)

JPMorgan Chase & Co is a financial holding company, which engages in the provision of financial and investment banking services. It focuses on investment banking, financial services for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing, and asset management. It operates through the following segments: Consumer and Community Banking (CCB), Commercial and Investment Bank (CIB), Asset and Wealth Management (AWM), and Corporate.

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Taylor Wimpey (LON:TW  Get Free Report)s stock had its buy rating reissued by equities research analysts at Berenberg Bank in a note issued to investors on Monday, MarketBeat reports. They currently have a GBX 135 price target on the homebuilders stock. Berenberg Banks target price would indicate a potential upside of 34.73% from the companys previous close.

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Several other research firms also recently commented on TW. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a buy rating and issued a GBX 142 target price on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated a sector perform rating and issued a GBX 130 price target on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a report on Thursday, October 2nd. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft decreased their price target on shares of Taylor Wimpey from GBX 136 to GBX 122 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, August 5th. Citigroup raised their price objective on Taylor Wimpey from GBX 140 to GBX 145 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. restated a neutral rating on shares of Taylor Wimpey in a research report on Thursday, October 2nd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, Taylor Wimpey currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 133.43.

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Taylor Wimpey Price Performance

Taylor Wimpey Company Profile

Shares of LON:TW opened at GBX 100 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.79, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a current ratio of 5.08. The stock has a market cap of 3.59 billion, a P/E ratio of 14.59, a PEG ratio of 2.04 and a beta of 1.81. The firms 50-day simple moving average is GBX 102.91 and its 200-day simple moving average is GBX 108.19.

(Get Free Report)

Taylor Wimpey plc operates as a homebuilder in the United Kingdom and Spain. It builds and delivers various homes and communities. Taylor Wimpey plc was incorporated in 1935 and is based in High Wycombe, the United Kingdom.

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The British Army has officially declared that its new AJAX Armored Fighting Vehicle has reached Initial Operating Capability (IOC), marking a significant milestone in the nations land forces modernization effort. This announcement confirms that a squadron of AJAX vehicles is now ready for operational deployment, providing advanced reconnaissance and combat power. The development represents the first introduction of a new armored fighting vehicle for the British Army in nearly three decades. It is a cornerstone of the UK Governments Strategic Defense Review (SDR) 2025.

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Designed and manufactured in Merthyr Tydfil, South Wales, by General Dynamics Land Systems, the AJAX Armoured Fighting Vehicle program is a large-scale national effort. The project draws on a UK-wide supply chain of over 230 companies, sustaining more than 4,100 highly skilled jobs. To date, more than 160 of the 589 vehicles on order have been delivered to the Army. The AJAX family consists of six distinct variants built on a common tracked, all-terrain platform, designed to provide superior crew protection, digital integration, and formidable firepower.

Extensive Testing and Proven Performance

Before achieving IOC status, the AJAX vehicle underwent a comprehensive, demanding series of trials to validate its reliability and performance in battlefield conditions. The rigorous testing process included over 42,000 kilometers of battlefield-simulated driving and the firing of more than 20,000 rounds from its advanced 40mm cased telescoped cannon. The vehicles capabilities were further assessed through operational exercises in extreme hot and cold climates, as well as live-firing trials while on the move to test its advanced mobility and targeting systems.

Strategic and Economic Implications

These trials have proven the platforms readiness to serve at the core of the British Armys armoured and deep reconnaissance strike brigades. The vehicles capabilities are intended to directly support the vision of General Sir Roly Walker, Chief of the General Staff, which aims to increase the Armys operational lethality by 10-fold.

The AJAX program is a key component of the Strategic Defence Reviews objectives. It equips the Army with a more lethal and integrated force prepared for high-intensity warfare, thereby increasing warfighting readiness. The vehicles advanced sensors and digital architecture align with the SDRs emphasis on rapid technology adoption and battlefield digitization, incorporating lessons from modern conflicts such as in Ukraine.

Beyond its military role, the programme serves as a significant driver for economic growth and national resilience. Luke Pollard MP, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry, noted, Defence is an engine for growth. AJAX is contributing not only to the economy in South Wales but also UK-wide in the supply chain. This sentiment was echoed by Jo Stevens, Secretary of State for Wales, who highlighted that the delivery of the Merthyr-made vehicles cements the defence industrys crucial role in the Welsh economy.

With its advanced, interoperable capabilities, AJAX also strengthens the UKs leadership position within NATO. Officials are actively exploring the vehicles export potential to allied nations. The AJAX platform has significant export potential, especially to NATO countries, and fills a crucial role in enhancing allied defence capabilities, said Dave Paddock, President of General Dynamics Land Systems.
Rio Tinto Group (LON:RIO  Get Free Report) had its price target raised by stock analysts at Citigroup from GBX 4,600 to GBX 5,700 in a report issued on Monday, MarketBeat Ratings reports. The firm currently has a neutral rating on the stock. Citigroups target price points to a potential upside of 7.79% from the companys previous close.

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Several other research firms also recently weighed in on RIO. Berenberg Bank reissued a hold rating and issued a GBX 5,200 target price on shares of Rio Tinto Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft cut shares of Rio Tinto Group to a hold rating and lowered their price objective for the stock from GBX 5,300 to GBX 5,100 in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their target price on shares of Rio Tinto Group from GBX 6,170 to GBX 6,100 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada raised their target price on Rio Tinto Group from GBX 4,700 to GBX 4,900 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Rio Tinto Group presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of GBX 5,566.67.

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Rio Tinto Group Trading Down 2.0%

Rio Tinto Group Company Profile

LON:RIO opened at GBX 5,288 on Monday. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of GBX 5,058.92 and a 200 day simple moving average of GBX 4,684.31. The firm has a market capitalization of 85.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.42, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of -0.64 and a beta of 0.59. Rio Tinto Group has a 1-year low of GBX 4,024.50 and a 1-year high of GBX 5,565. The company has a quick ratio of 1.34, a current ratio of 1.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 25.28.

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We operate in 35 countries where our 60,000 employees are working to find better ways to provide the materials the world needs. Our portfolio includes iron ore, copper, aluminium and a range of other minerals and materials needed for people, communities and nations to grow and prosper, and for the world to cut carbon emissions to net zero.

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James Cropper (LON:CRPR  Get Free Report)s stock had its house stock rating reiterated by Shore Capital in a note issued to investors on Monday,Digital Look reports.

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James Cropper Trading Up 3.6%

Shares of CRPR stock opened at GBX 342 on Monday. James Cropper has a 12-month low of GBX 125.15 and a 12-month high of GBX 351. The company has a market capitalization of 32.68 million, a P/E ratio of -6.21 and a beta of 0.52. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 307.38 and a 200 day moving average price of GBX 267.65. The company has a quick ratio of 1.31, a current ratio of 2.56 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 96.80.

James Cropper (LON:CRPR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 17th. The company reported GBX 21.40 earnings per share for the quarter. James Cropper had a negative net margin of 3.88% and a negative return on equity of 13.45%. Research analysts forecast that James Cropper will post 10.2657444 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

James Cropper Company Profile

James Cropper is a global market leader in advanced materials and paper products. Led by the Cropper family for six generations, the business has an international workforce and an operational reach in over 50 countries.

Established in 1845, the Group manufactures paper, packaging and advanced materials incorporating pioneering non-wovens and electrochemical coatings.

James Cropper is a specialist provider of niche solutions tailored to a unique customer specification, ranging from substrates and components in hydrogen electrolysis and fuel cells to bespoke colours and textures in paper and moulded fibre packaging designed to replace single use plastics.

The Group operates across multiple markets from luxury retail to renewable energy.

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PICTURED ABOVE: The Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Councillor Ruairi McHugh, hosts a civic reception for Mary and Martin Gallagher (Santa & Mrs Claus) to launch their annual Santa Appeal for Children in Crossfire, in memory of their late son, Christopher. Included is Aishling Cunningham, Children in Crossfire. (Photo: Lorcan Doherty Photography)

Derrys very own Santa, Martin Gallagher, will return to the Guildhall on Saturday, November 22 to begin his annual fundraiser for Children in Crossfire.

For 18 years now, Martin and his wife Mary have been raising vital funds in memory of their beloved son Christopher, who tragically died of malaria in 2006, when he was only 23 years old.

Speaking as he dusted down his Santa suit for another year, Martin Gallagher said: I get a great kick out of playing Santa each year on the sleigh at the Guildhall foyer. Its a truly rewarding experience that means a great deal to me because I do it in Christophers memory. Mary and I miss him very deeply, but our fundraising for Children in Crossfire helps to keep his memory alive.

Derry people are so generous every year, as are those who call to the Guildhall when visiting our city. Its wonderful for me to talk to everyone about the vulnerable children they are helping to support in Tanzania and Ethiopia, and to see peoples warmth and goodwill day after day. I am looking forward to welcoming children and their parents from near and far to join me under the tree and share in the Christmas magic they bring.

Having launched his 2024 fundraising campaign by abseiling down Foyleside Shopping Centre, Martin promised to go one better this year: We will be having a very special launch of this years appeal on Saturday, November 22. I will be arriving at Ebrington Square in spectacular fashion at 12noon.

"My elves and I will then make our way by sleigh  designed and built by Shantallow Community Centre and Teamworks  across the Peace Bridge and over to Guildhall Square, where Long Tower Primary Schools choir will sing carols and Christmas songs. It will be a great hour or so to get Christmas started, so I encourage local families to come along and join in the festive fun.

Children in Crossfire Chief Executive Richard Moore said: Martin and Mary Gallagher have been terrific Children in Crossfire supporters for close to two decades now. Their passion for our cause reflects their love for Christopher, whose memory this annual fundraiser honours.

"Our international programmes, in Ethiopia and Tanzania, have benefited hugely because of the support we receive from Mary and Martin and we are very grateful to them. To date, they have raised over 100,000  with more to come this Christmas thanks to the deeply generous local public.

Mayor of Derry City and Strabane District Council, Cllr Ruairi McHugh, said he was delighted to launch the campaign alongside Martin, and thanked him for his impressive fundraising efforts. He added: Martins dedication to Children in Crossfire is truly remarkable. For nearly two decades, he and Mary have turned their own heartbreak into hope for thousands of children, and the impact of that compassion is incredible. Martin embodies the very best of our community; generosity, resilience and a deep desire to make a difference.

I want to sincerely thank him for everything he has achieved so far, and Im very much looking forward to seeing this years festive campaign come to life. Ive no doubt he will once again bring immense joy to families across the district while raising vital funds for an incredible cause.

Anyone interested in finding out more about our Santa Appeal should contact Aishling on 028 7127 8955 or at aishling.cunningham@childrenincrossfire.org. Its also easy to make a donation at www.childrenincrossfire.org/santa-donate.
Young people from across the city are coming together to create two new murals - one celebrating poet and Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, and the other reflecting Derrys vibrant culture and diversity.

A new street-art programme launched by Feile is now underway with young people taking part in hands-on workshops to research and design the murals alongside Derry street-art collective, Peaball, under the theme Building Bridges.

Participants from youth clubs in Bishop Street, Newbuildings, Clooney, Irish Street, and Hillcrest will have the chance to work with Irelands leading street artists and explore unique mural art across the island.

Commenting on the projects progress, Feiles project co-ordinator Ruairi OConnell said its a perfect example of young people leading the way to deliver positive change.

He said: This project shows how creativity can bring communities together. Young people from across the city are learning new skills, working side by side, building relationships, and shaping the look of their neighbourhoods.

The Seamus Heaney mural is especially powerful. His words celebrated hope and unity - now his image will stand in Bishop Street as a symbol connecting future generations with one of Irelands greatest cultural figures.

The mural celebrating diversity reflects our citys changing landscape and the vibrancy of its many cultures and traditions that make this place special and unique.

Projects like this prove that when young people are given the opportunity to lead, art can transform spaces, spark conversations, and strengthen pride in the communities where they live.

The project is delivered by Feile Derry, with support from PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
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The provision of Christian religious education in Northern Ireland schools does not comply with human rights standards and is unlawful, the UK Supreme Court has ruled.

In a landmark judgment, the court upheld an appeal brought by a pupil at a Belfast school and her father and reinstated an earlier court ruling that the teaching of RE and collective worship breaches human rights as it does not approach the subject in an objective, critical and pluralist manner.

Stormonts Department of Education has said it will provide advice to schools on the complex judgment in the near future.

The pupil, known as JR87, was at a controlled primary school in Belfast in 2019 when, as part of the curriculum, she took part in non-denominational Christian religious education and collective worship.

Her parents wrote a letter to the school voicing concerns that their daughters education did not appear to conform with their own religious and philosophical convictions.

In a reply, the school confirmed its provision of religious education and collective worship was Bible-based and that it followed the core syllabus for education.

JR87 and her father, known as G, challenged the legality of this and sought judicial review against the Department of Education.

Their lawyers argued the religious education and collective worship in the school contravened their human rights requiring the state to provide education to respect the right of parents to ensure such education is in conformity with their own religious and philosophical convictions.

The High Court in Belfast found in favour of the family in 2022 and said the Christian RE taught and collective worship in schools in Northern Ireland is unlawful.

However, this was overturned by the Court of Appeal, so the family took their case to the Supreme Court.

In a unanimous judgment delivered on Wednesday, the UKs highest court allowed the appeal brought by JR87 and G and dismissed a cross-appeal brought by the department.

Delivering the judgment, Lord Stephens said: The Court of Appeal was wrong in its application of established principles of ECHR law and should not have departed from the (High Court) judges finding that the parents had valid concerns in relation to withdrawing JR87 from religious education and collective worship.

Furthermore, the Court of Appeal fell into error in making a distinction between indoctrination and the state conveying information or knowledge in a manner which was not objective, critical, and pluralistic.

The concepts are two sides of the same coin: conveying knowledge in a manner that is not objective, critical, and pluralistic amounts to pursuing the aim of indoctrination.

Lord Stephens also said the Court of Appeal ought to have found that having to withdraw JR87 from religious education was capable of placing an undue burden on her parents.

He said the judgment was not about secularism in the education system and made clear that no one is suggesting that RE should not be provided in schools in Northern Ireland.

Lord Stephens added: The family strongly support the provision of religious education provided it does not amount to indoctrination.

Responding to the judgment, Darragh Mackin of Phoenix Law, solicitor for JR87 and her father, said it was a watershed moment for educational rights.

He said: The Supreme Court has confirmed that all children are entitled to an education that respects their freedom of thought, conscience, and religion.

The judgment makes clear that the State cannot rely on withdrawal mechanisms to justify religious instruction.

Schools must not place children in the impossible position of being singled out or stigmatised simply because their families do not share the religious worldview embedded in the curriculum.

A Department of Education spokesperson said: The department notes the UK Supreme Courts judgment.

We will carefully consider the complex judgment and its implications and will provide advice to schools in the near future.

DUP deputy leader and former education minister in Northern Ireland Michelle McIlveen described the court ruling as deeply disappointing.

She said: While we respect the court and the legal process, this ruling will concern many parents, governors, teachers and faith communities across Northern Ireland for whom the ethos is so important.

For generations, Christian values have shaped the moral character of our school system.

Through assemblies, school activities and the everyday life of the classroom, those values have helped form young people with integrity and respect for others.

That heritage is not something we apologise for, nor is it something we are prepared to see diminished.

Humanists UK has called on the UK Government to urgently review the RE and collective worship laws in state schools in England.

Education campaigns manager Lewis Young said: Todays judgment makes it crystal clear that you cannot respect families human rights simply by telling them they can opt out of a system that is, at its core, religiously one-sided.

In light of this ruling, the position on faith-based RE and collective worship has become impossible to justify.

The UK Government must urgently review the RE and collective worship laws in England and move to replace them with inclusive assemblies and teaching that respect every childs freedom of belief.
Infrastructure challenges in Northern Ireland present a barrier to economic growth, MPs have been told.

Stuart Anderson from the NI Chamber of Commerce and Industry said it is difficult to attract foreign investment if you cannot deliver planning approval or flush a toilet due to a wastewater crisis.

The Northern Ireland Affairs Committee held an evidence session as part of its inquiry into economic growth in the area.

DUP leader Gavin Robinson asked Mr Anderson if there is evidence that businesses in the area have been able to take advantage of dual market access offered by the Windsor Framework.

Mr Anderson: I think we are always looking for any competitive advantage that we can get and I think whenever you look at the official objective figures for exports, you saw the figures for Wales, Scotland, other devolved nations fall through the floor in 2024, whereas Northern Ireland bucked the trend, albeit at a modest level.

I think that it is a potential opportunity.

Mr Anderson said trade frictions between Great Britain and Northern Ireland need to be kept under constant review.

He added: Regulatory divergence is probably one of the single greatest challenges we need to consider when we think about GB being our biggest market.

Mr Anderson said dual market access is predicated on the notion of the movement of goods, pointing out structural issues around planning and wastewater infrastructure.

He said: The reality is when you look at the skills gap, 80% of our members saying they have persistent recruitment challenges.

When you look at the fact that we have a gap of about 5,000 workers coming through every year, in terms of the skills deficit, we have over 600,000 economically inactive.

That labour supply and skills issue is one (issue).

But, actually, if you cant get planning approval, if you cant, dare I say it, flush a toilet because the wastewater infrastructure is not where it needs to be, you are not going to attract FDI and you are not going to attract the investment that we need to see.

There is another challenge we have which is unique to Northern Ireland, it is the competitive position we have relevant to our nearest neighbours in the Republic of Ireland.

When they are performing the way they are in terms of productivity, when their education rates of seeing school pupils go right through to the age of 18 is much higher than it is in Northern Ireland.

He added: I think some of our members who are on the ground in Northern Ireland are certainly benefiting from that barrier-free access to the EU and into GB, I think official data supports that.

But in terms of actually attracting foreign direct investment, we have some serious structural issues to solve before that notion can be tested.
IHS Brazil, part of the IHS Towers group, announced on Tuesday it has expanded its distributed antenna systems (DAS) project at Afonso Pena Airport in Sao Jose dos Pinhais, Curitiba metropolitan area, in partnership with Motiva Airports.

IHS Brazil said the solution implemented at Afonso Pena Airport uses DAS with fibre-to-the-antenna (FTTA), which it previously deployed on Line 5-Lilac of the Sao Paulo subway.

Alexandre Katz, Operations Director of IHS Brazil, said the project is the largest undertaking among the 16 airports included in its partnership with Motiva Airports (formerly CCR Aeroportos).

The internal system has 45 irradiation points for both 4G and 5G distributed across three indoor sections covering all internal areas of the airport. The DAS system supports the 1800-MHz, 2100-MHz, and 2600-MHz bands in 2x2 MIMO for 4G, and the 3500-MHz band for 5G.

Meanwhile, three outdoor sections will deliver coverage to the runways, parking lots and the terminals entrances, overcoming physical barriers such as concrete walls and metal structures that typically hinder signal propagation.

Afonso Pena Airport is one of the main terminals in southern Brazil, handling approximately 500,000 passengers and 800,000 tons of cargo per month, with more than 140 scheduled flights daily. Katz said the expanded DAS network will help Brazils major mobile operators provide faster and more stable connectivity to terminal workers and passengers.

"With integrated 4G and 5G technologies, we will help MNOs provide passengers at Afonso Pena Airport with a high-quality connection, meeting the growing demand for data and supporting improvements in the terminals operational efficiency, he said in a statement.

IHS Brazil noted that the Afonso Pena Airport project is part of a larger initiative designed to strengthen connectivity in indoor environments in Brazil, such as airports, shopping malls, hospitals and factories. The company has already installed DAS technology at the airports of Navegantes, Palmas, Sao Luis, Foz do Iguacu and Goiania.

Additional DAS technology rollouts are planned at other airports in Motiva Airports' portfolio in 2026.
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Opposition leaders have clashed with the Taoiseach over housing after the publication of the Governments new plan on Thursday.

Speaking at Leaders Questions on Wednesday, Labour leader Ivana Bacik described it as old milk in new bottles.

She said there was: Nothing new on affordable home ownership, no clarity on what new powers the Land Development Agency will have, and no ambition on social housing

Ms Bacik added that the Government had abandoned annual targets for new home building.

Micheal Martin hit back saying she told an untruth when she said the Government had no social housing targets.

He said the Government had a plan to deliver 12,000 new social homes every year over the lifetime of the plan.

Ms Bacik also criticised a plan to reduce minimum apartment standards, which she said the Government: backed down in the courts on Monday.

The Taoiseach responded, saying it had been put forward because the government wanted to narrow the viability gap when it came to building apartments.

The Social Democrats Holly Cairns continued in the same vein.

She asked the Taoiseach why annual house building targets were not included in the Governments plans and why the overall target goes beyond the lifetime of this Government.

Mr Martin claimed that under the previous plan, Housing for All, the Government exceeded its targets, describing it as an inconvenient truth for the opposition.
45,000 has been allocated to support Boyne Valley Walking Festival in County Louth, through the Strategic Festival Tourism Portfolio, it was announced this morning by Minister Peter Burke. The portfolio provides funding for 38 festivals across the country over the coming three years.

The news was welcomed by Louth Fine Gael TD, Paula Butterly, who said: I was delighted to learn from my colleague, Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke that Boyne Valley Walking Festival in County Louth will benefit from Failte Ireland funding, totalling 45,000.

"Even better is that this funding will be an annual grant this year and for the next two years, allowing the profile of the festival to be built and grown over the coming period, providing key support to the local economy and cementing the festival into the calendar of key annual events.

Deputy Butterly continued: This government investment in authentic, local tourism will attract both local and international visitors to Louth to stay overnight and enjoy what we have to offer, with a focus on festivals held outside the summer season when the sector is usually quieter.

Read also: Louth farmer wins Farming for Nature Ambassador Award for 2025

Making the announcement, the Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment Peter Burke said: "The 38 funded festivals, a total investment of 3.9 million, will not only showcase Irelands rich culture and creativity but will also deliver real economic benefits for communities and our SMEs across the country.

"By attracting visitors from home and abroad, these events will help to strengthen local businesses, support the 210,000 tourism jobs in our economy and enhance the competitiveness of our destinations.

I will shortly be launching our new Tourism Strategy, which will lay out the strategic direction of tourism and investment over the coming five years. There will be a focus on balanced investment, ensuring that all areas of the country, in particular those that traditionally experience lower tourist numbers, are supported with government intervention and investment.

"This will bolster our local economies and our many tourism SMEs, showcasing Irelands unique and authentic tourism offering to the world and providing economic benefit to local businesses.
Erin McGreehan , has welcomed the announcement of a major new partnership that will establish Dundalk Institute of Technology as a University College of Queens University Belfast, stating that this is a transformational day for the County of Louth. Fianna Fail TD for Louth , has welcomed the announcement of a major new partnership that will establish Dundalk Institute of Technology as a University College of Queens University Belfast, stating that this is a transformational day for the County of Louth.

A formal agreement is expected in December 2025, with the new University College planned to be fully operational for the 2026 academic year. From September 2026 students enrolling at DkIT will study within Queens academic and quality assurance frameworks and will graduate with a Queens University Belfast degree or postgraduate qualification.

Speaking on the announcement Deputy McGreehan stated:

This will have an untold impact on the future of this county.

As a proud Louth woman this is inspirational to see, it will bring the level of education in DkIT to the next level and it will be right on our doorstep.

I have always been hugely ambitious for what DkIT can offer as an institution and I have consistently championed a change in its status, as it was the only institute of technology that had not yet achieved university status.

This move will not only see the growth and excel of DkIT it will also expand opportunities for student and researcher mobility, foster innovation and further support delivery of regional balance.

There is a real sense of pride in Louth at the moment, as the county feels like it is going through its own renaissance period. Our sporting success has already lifted spirits and now the addition of a university strengthens that feeling that Louth is growing in confidence and standing.

Read Next: Dunleer Tidy Towns set for annual community awards night

Concluding, Deputy McGreehan stated:

I want to thank the Minister for Further and Higher Education James Lawless for the work he has done to drive this project forward.

I will continue to work closely with him as the partnership develops to ensure the institute grows in strength and influence within the technological sector in Ireland.
Beyond the single bank: macroprudential insights from the 2025 EU-wide stress test and its extensions

Prepared by Costanza Rodriguez dAcri and Frances Shaw

Published as part of the Macroprudential Bulletin 32, November 2025.

This overview article provides an introduction to the 2025 Macroprudential Stress Test Extension Report (MaSTER), released as the 32nd edition of the Macroprudential Bulletin, which investigates how the EU-wide stress test and its extensions provide a broader assessment of the systemic vulnerabilities of euro area banks. The 2025 EU-wide stress test results are expanded via a top-down model-based toolkit to assess additional risks, perform policy simulation exercises, and present novel approaches to gauging the severity of the adverse scenario. In this article, lessons are drawn from these extended stress tests through a comparative analysis of capital depletion. These exercises, conditioned on the EBAs 2025 adverse scenario, depend on the selected transmission channels and explore a relevant albeit incomplete set of risks. Overall, available results support authorities cautious approach to capital buffers. They suggest that, while most banks are resilient to the tested shocks, considering risks not monitored under the current EBA methodology (such as climate risk, liquidity risk and contagion risk) may uncover new vulnerabilities.

1 Introduction

Bottom-up stress tests, including the EU-wide exercise, provide insights and data to support macroprudential risk identification and policy design. This edition of the Macroprudential Bulletin uses these to expand the microprudential findings of the 2025 EU-wide stress test to a macroprudential perspective.[1] Each article and box relies on the results from the 2025 stress test to look beyond the perspective of individual banks and assess additional macroprudential risks using a more comprehensive diagnostic toolkit. These include climate risk, liquidity risk and contagion risk, as well as feedback effects to and from the macroeconomy and other financial sectors.

Stress tests constitute an important forward-looking tool to support macroprudential policymakers. By simulating banks reactions to severe but plausible adverse scenarios, stress tests help uncover hidden vulnerabilities. They are instrumental in estimating the potential impact of emerging systemic risks and in informing prudential policy choices, offering useful information and insights beyond their microprudential use.

2 Scenario severity indicators enhance stress test credibility and policy relevance

Authorities need well-calibrated, relevant scenarios to identify financial stability risks and inform prudential policies. Adverse scenarios for stress tests differ from traditional downside scenarios in that they outline hypothetical yet plausible paths for macro-financial variables which represent a sufficiently severe and relevant stress event. The interpretation of stress test results, as well as their credibility, has therefore been increasingly associated with the notion of scenario severity.

Figueres et al. (2025) introduce a framework for evaluating scenario severity, showing that stress test scenarios have become increasingly severe over time. Indicator-based methods, macroeconomic modelling and plausibility metrics are employed to summarise scenario severity in a tractable way. Severity is also assessed from the starting point of the macroeconomy, taking into account how plausible scenario paths vary with the prevailing levels of systemic and financial risk.

3 Building on the EU-wide bottom-up stress tests for risk assessment

The 2025 EU-wide stress test results can be used as a building block for a wider range of top-down risk assessments. Under this years adverse scenario[2], an aggravation of geopolitical tensions disrupts trade channels and lowers global economic growth. Although banks projected greater losses due to deteriorating credit, market and operational risk compared with the 2023 stress test, solid profitability helped cushion them against these losses. However, the banking sector is exposed to additional risks that are not reflected in the methodology underlying the 2025 EU-wide stress test. These are therefore analysed in this edition of the Macroprudential Bulletin.

Transition and physical climate risks are assessed using top-down models that leverage the data and results submitted by banks. By combining firm-level information from the AnaCredit dataset and starting point information on banks probabilities of default from the EU-wide stress test, Abbondanza et al. (2025) investigate the impact on the probability of default relating to firms transition risk arising from green investments aimed at reducing carbon emissions. They find a moderate Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) impact in addition to the EU-wide depletion of around 74 basis points, mostly driven by exposure to energy-intensive sectors. Focusing on flood risk, Abbondanza et al. (2025) integrate physical risk from the Nationally Determined Contributions scenario outlined by the Network for Greening the Financial System (NGFS)[3] into the EBAs adverse scenario and estimate that banks credit risk losses increase by an additional 77 basis points.

Liquidity and contagion risks are investigated by combining findings from the EU-wide market risk stress test with models that capture sectoral interconnections. Using granular data from banks, insurance corporations and investment funds, the ECB Interconnected System-wide stress test Analytics (ISA) tool models how shocks propagate across sectors (Grassi et al., 2025). This approach maps out how financial entities adjust their balance sheets to changes in asset prices and liquidity conditions. It shows that, across sectors, investment funds are more exposed to market swings and contagion losses due to the composition of their portfolios. Overall, banks second-round contagion losses amount to 29 basis points over the initial quarter of the scenario.

Contagion effects are further evaluated by linking bottom-up stress tests for different entities or by looking in more detail at overlapping portfolios. Baena and Molitor (2025) use the published results from ESMAs annual Central Counterparty (CCP) stress test to explore the potential impact of a CCP default on banks solvency. The findings suggest that bank solvency is not severely affected in aggregate, but some banks suffer larger losses. In parallel, Baena and Grassi (2025) investigate how correlated defaults can amplify systemic risks during tail events and document how they vary over time and across sectors.

4 Using stress tests to support macroprudential policy

Stress tests are increasingly used to support the setting of macroprudential buffers in the EU. A recent joint report by the ECB and the European Systemic Risk Board (ESRB) listed 17 European Economic Area (EEA) national authorities that use stress-testing approaches to calibrate buffers.[4] In addition, the Bank of England has for many years combined stress test results with broader macro-financial indicators to guide countercyclical capital buffer (CCyB) decisions, ensuring that the banking system can absorb losses while continuing to support the real economy.[5]

The constant balance sheet assumption applied in the EU-wide stress tests provides valuable information for macroprudential policy. Under this approach, banks are assumed to keep the size and composition of their balance sheets unchanged over the stress test horizon. This assumption aligns with the macroprudential policy objective of ensuring the continued flow of credit to the real economy during times of stress while preserving the resilience of the banking system.[6] On this basis, Caccavaio et al. (2025) use the data collected under the last four EU-wide stress tests to complement existing ECB methodologies used to measure the positive neutral CCyB rate.

Dynamic balance sheet stress tests offer a complementary setup to assess risks, back-test buffers and inform prudential policy decisions during crises. A dynamic balance sheet model anticipates how banks will react to a crisis and the consequences of this, allowing policymakers to better quantify banks actions and their impact on the economy. It also facilitates the evaluation of policy actions during crises, such as releasing macroprudential buffers or restricting dividend payouts.[7] In this edition of the Macroprudential Bulletin, Couaillier et al. (2025) show that releasing the CCyB and systemic risk buffer (SyRB) would enable banks to absorb greater losses and provide more credit to the economy.

5 Lessons from the 2025 EU-wide stress test and its extensions

Adding risks beyond those explored in the EU-wide stress test increases capital depletion marginally, which supports authorities cautious approach to bank capital buffers. Shocks stemming from climate risk increase losses by up to 0.8 percentage points relative to the 2025 EU-wide results (Chart 1, panel a, yellow bars).[8] By contrast, relaxing the EBAs methodological assumptions (Couaillier et al., 2025) results in less adverse impacts, even when accounting for feedback loops from the banking sector to the economy (Chart 1, panel a, last column in left graph and first column in right graph). Total losses from the ISA simulation are not directly comparable because of the different time horizon assumed (Chart 1, panel a, second column in right graph); however, the second-round impact can be added to the official results (Chart 1, panel b). Accounting for additional losses from these extensions, and factoring in offsetting impacts from the relaxation of constraints, results in a slightly higher net depletion that remains below the final outcomes of the 2023 stress test overall (Chart 1, panel b). Many risks (e.g. cyber risks) are not tested by these extensions and the results are based on the same adverse scenario, depending on various models and their underlying assumptions. Overall, these additional results corroborate authorities cautious approach to capital buffers.

Incorporating new risks, such as climate risk, can shed light on hidden vulnerabilities. Examining the correlation between bank-level depletion in the EU-wide exercise and the macroprudential stress test simulations (Chart 2, panel a) produces some interesting patterns. Bank losses from models that include risks already captured in the EBA methodology  such as a dynamic balance sheet model  are positively correlated with the losses reported in the EU-wide stress test. Allowing for additional counterparty credit risk or second-round contagion effects confirms patterns of vulnerability aligned with those of the EU-wide stress test (Chart 2, panel a, CCR and ISA 2nd round effects columns). The weak relationship between climate-related losses and EU-wide losses suggests that the vulnerable banks identified in the EU-wide exercise are not those facing the largest climate-related losses.

While depletion is comparable across exercises, there are differences in the most vulnerable banks and the number of banks breaching the maximum distributable amount (MDA) threshold. Comparing the share of risk-weighted assets held by banks in the bottom 20th percentile of the depletion distribution reveals that smaller banks are more severely affected under the EU-wide stress test (Chart 2, panel b, first bar). In the ISA simulations, it is instead larger banks that are more affected, owing to their larger exposure to NBFI entities, second-round effects and the different time horizons characterising each simulation.[9] The number of banks breaching the MDA threshold also varies across simulations. It is highest in exercises that incorporate climate losses in addition to the EU-wide losses (Chart 2, panel c). Under the dynamic balance sheet simulations, however, fewer banks breach the MDA threshold, with further reductions observed when available buffers are released (yellow bar).

Chart 1 System-level depletion and net additional losses across different stress test simulations a) System-level depletion across additional stress test simulations b) Net losses from additional stress test simulations (percentages) (percentages) Sources: ECB and EBA stress test data, ECB calculations.

Notes: Panel a: depletion is expressed as CET1 transitional ratio depletion. Simulation results are presented for constant and dynamic balance sheet approaches separately, with the stress horizon specified underneath. Climate, physical and Climate, transition losses can be considered as additional risks and are presented as an addition to the EBA stress test depletion (yellow bars). For the banking euro area stress test (BEAST) simulations, the constant balance sheet exercise removes a number of EBAs methodological assumptions, while the BEAST dynamic simulation allows banks to deleverage and derisk. For the system-wide stress test (ISA) losses, first and second-round effects are identified separately (turquoise and light turquoise bars). Panel b: depletion is expressed as CET1 transitional ratio depletion. physical and transition risks are presented jointly under Climate risks by taking the maximum depletion from each module for each bank. Only the second-round system-wide stress test losses that capture contagion risks from non-banks are presented. Finally, only the differences between the EBA results and the BEAST constant and dynamic balance sheet simulations are included.

Chart 2 Correlations, tail banks and breaches of the MDA threshold a) Correlations between 2025 EU-wide and macroprudential exercises b) System-level REA c) Number of banks breaching the MDA threshold (correlation coefficient) (percentages) (total) Source: ECB and EBA stress test data, ECB calculations.

Notes: The exercise horizon is three years for all simulations except the ISA simulation, which has a shorter horizon. BEAST exercises shown are constant balance sheet (BEAST CBS), and dynamic balance sheet with feedback loops to the macroeconomy (BEAST DBS w FBL). Climate TR and Climate PR are results from the climate transition and climate physical exercises respectively. Panel a: counterparty credit risk (CCR) only considers 15 entities in the analysis. Panel b: share of risk exposure amount (REA) for banks in the bottom 20th percentile of the CET1 depletion distribution, calculated as the sum of REA divided by total system REA. Panel c: the number of banks refers to the number of unique banks that breach the MDA threshold at any point during the simulation exercise.

6 Conclusion

The 2025 macroprudential stress test extensions show that adding risks beyond those explored in the EU-wide stress test increases capital depletion marginally, supporting authorities cautious approach to bank capital buffers. Through a modular approach, combining top-down and bottom-up inputs, this edition of the Macroprudential Bulletin leverages the extensive, bottom-up data of the EU-wide stress tests to conduct more comprehensive analysis of systemic risk, taking into account new risks such as the interconnections between financial actors. Compared with the 2025 EU-wide results, the extensions lead to a marginal increase in net losses for euro area banks. Differences also emerge regarding the most vulnerable banks, reflecting the underlying transmission channels at play. Incorporating new risks, such as climate risk, brings additional information to the stress test exercise. Furthermore, the extensions only assess a single scenario and a relevant albeit incomplete set of risks, which supports authorities cautious approach to capital buffers.

Looking ahead, EU-wide stress tests hold significant potential to support macroprudential policy. The EU-wide scope of these stress tests ensures a consistent framework across jurisdictions, which, in combination with country-specific scenarios, makes them a valuable tool for addressing systemic risks at the national level and enhancing policy coordination at the European level.[10]
Integrating climate risk into the 2025 EU-wide stress test: the effects of climate risks for firms

Prepared by Aurora Abbondanza, Marianna Caccavaio, Valentina Gattinoni and Oana Maria Georgescu

Published as part of the Macroprudential Bulletin 32, November 2025.

As authorities across the euro area work towards including climate risks into regular stress-testing frameworks, this article offers a starting point for assessing bank resilience to climate risks that materialise under a short-term horizon. This is relevant since acute physical risks and abrupt policy change can also materialise at short notice and affect the balance sheet of financial institutions. The analysis uses an adverse macroeconomic backdrop that combines the EBAs adverse scenario with the Network for Greening the Financial Systems Nationally Determined Contributions (NGFS NDCs) scenarios. It extends the EU-wide 2025 stress test results by incorporating both transition and acute physical climate risks into the credit risk assessment for non-financial corporations by means of top-down models. Transition risks driven by green investments to reduce emissions amplify credit losses and reduce banks Common Equity Tier 1 (CET1) capital, particularly in high energy-intensive sectors. Similarly, acute physical risks, such as extreme flood events, reduce CET1 capital through direct damage, local disruptions, and macroeconomic spillovers. While the magnitude of impacts varies across banks, the analysis shows that both types of climate risk can have a moderate but consequential effect on capital ratios. Notably, the banks most exposed to climate-related losses may differ from those identified as the most vulnerable in the broader EU-wide assessment. These findings underscore the importance of incorporating both types of climate risk into regular financial stability assessments.

1 Introduction

In recent years integrating short and long-term climate risks into stress testing has emerged as a key priority for financial regulators globally. Forward-looking assessment methods have become a crucial instrument for quantifying and assessing the potential impacts of climate change on economies and financial systems.[1] While much attention has been placed on the long-term nature of these risks, their short-term implications are equally important. Acute weather events, abrupt policy shifts and rapid market repricing driven by climate developments can occur at short notice, causing immediate and significant impacts on financial institutions balance sheets and the broader economy.

Financial regulators in Europe will be adding climate risk monitoring to their regular stress testing of the financial sector. The European Supervisory Authorities (the European Banking Authority (EBA), the European Insurance and Occupational Pensions Authority (EIOPA) and the European Securities and Markets Authority (ESMA)  collectively referred to as the ESAs) recently issued a Joint Consultation Paper on draft guidelines on the stress testing of environmental, social and governance (ESG) risks. This started with the environmental component, focusing on climate and other nature-related risks such as biodiversity, deforestation, etc. Financial institutions face challenges in modelling future climate pathways, including fragmented tools and a lack of modelling consensus; these draft guidelines aim to harmonise methodologies and practices among banking, insurance and securities supervisors to ensure proportionality and enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of stress tests. The consultation process concluded on 19 September 2025, and the final guidance is expected to be published by the ESAs in the first few months of 2026.

With regards to the banking system, the EBA is working to integrate climate risks into its EU-wide stress-testing framework. Based on the strategy outlined in the EBAs Annual Report 2024 and in line with its mandate,[2] the incorporation of climate risks into the EU-wide stress-testing framework will be gradual. Partial integration of climate risks, referred to as a combined approach, will start in 2027, with additional related elements introduced in subsequent stress tests. Particular emphasis will be placed on ensuring comprehensive coverage and assessment of both physical risks (including their acute dimensions) and transition risks, supported by the development of tailored scenarios.

The EBAs proposed framework for climate stress testing will ensure that the principles of proportionality and simplification are observed while leveraging the existing EU-wide stress test infrastructure. The proportionality principle means the framework will be tailored to the size, risk profile and climate risk exposure of individual institutions. Moreover, the climate stress-testing module will be aligned with the EU-wide stress test in terms of data definitions, reporting processes, scenarios and methodological design, significantly reducing complexity and easing the implementation burden for institutions. Finally, utilising the existing EU-wide stress test infrastructure will enhance consistency and efficiency, while also paving the way for the gradual and comprehensive integration of climate risks into the EU-wide framework over the longer term.

This article provides additional insights into the EU-wide stress test by incorporating climate risk into banks credit risk projections via a top-down approach. The analysis extends the 2025 EU-wide stress test results by incorporating both transition and acute physical climate risks into the credit risk assessment for non-financial corporations (NFCs) by means of top-down models. The focus on credit risk is justified as (1) it is a significant risk driver in supervisory stress test exercises; and (2) the transmission channels from climate shock to credit risk are better understood and, to varying degrees, better reflected in banks credit risk and stress test models compared with other risk drivers such as market or profitability risks. Transition risks stemming from green investments to reduce emissions increase default probabilities, particularly in high energy-intensive sectors. This leads to amplified credit losses, lowering banks CET1 capital by a moderate 74 basis points. Extreme flood events further exacerbate credit risks through direct, local and macroeconomic transmission channels, resulting in an additional 77 basis point decrease in the CET1 ratio (see Box 1). Interestingly, the exercise identifies undetected pockets of risk, as the banks most exposed to climate-related losses may differ from those identified as the most vulnerable in the broader EU-wide assessment (see Rodriguez dAcri and Shaw, 2025).

An integrated approach to climate stress tests, when executed well, can help banks perform better, not just meet regulatory expectations. While climate stress-testing exercises have emerged as a key tool for supervisors to assess the impact of climate risks on the banking system, euro area banks themselves are making more and more use of them to inform required disclosures and strategic choices (see ECB report on good practices for climate stress testing). In view of the evolving nature of this topic, banks will have to adapt their practices on an ongoing basis.

2 Extending the 2025 EU-wide stress test by adding a climate risk analysis for NFCs

Banks sectoral credit risk exposures to transition risks can be translated into changes in default probabilities and credit losses. The analysis leverages the projections for energy prices, emissions and energy consumption, as well as the trajectories of relevant macroeconomic variables provided by the Network of Central Banks and Supervisors for Greening the Financial System (NGFS) in its Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) scenario. By integrating the NGFS NDCs scenario into the EBAs 2025 adverse scenario, this approach provides insights into how transition risks can amplify the outcomes of the official EU-wide stress test, highlighting their importance for financial stability assessments. The impact of transition risk must be assessed in conjunction with physical risk (see Box 1), as delayed and fragmented transition policies are associated with higher physical risk over the medium term.

2.1 Transition risk scenario

Building on the NGFS NDCs scenario, a short-term transition risk scenario is constructed, reflecting pledged emissions targets and delayed policy action. While climate risk scenarios are typically designed with a long-term horizon, transition risks can also be highly relevant in the short term. This article adopts a short-term perspective on climate transition risk using the 2025-27 path of the NGFS NDCs scenario. This incorporates all pledged emission reduction targets announced by individual countries as of March 2024, even where they have not yet been accompanied by effective policies.[3] Specifically, the NGFS NDCs scenario foresees a shift in the EU energy mix, marked by a reduction in the consumption of fossil fuels such as gas and coal and growing reliance on renewables and electricity, driven by firm-level green investments. Out to 2027, the share of gas, coal and oil in the energy mix is projected to decrease, while renewables are expected to experience a substantial increase, reflecting the transition towards cleaner energy sources (Chart 1, panel a).

To understand how these changes affect individual firms, the energy mix foreseen by the scenario is downscaled at firm level. This is done by combining data on sectoral energy consumption from Eurostat with the revenue share of each firm within its sector. Furthermore, it is assumed that the technological change needed to support the implied shift in firms energy mix is achieved through green investments (Chart 1, panel b), with the magnitude of these directly proportional to the emission intensity of each sector. Green investments affect firms leverage and profitability, and hence their probability of default.

Chart 1 The energy mix and green investments implied by the NGFS NDCs scenario a) Change in the EU aggregate energy mix b) Cumulative green investments: firm averages (percentages) (EUR millions) Sources: ECB and ECB calculations.

Notes: EU aggregate figures. Panel a) shows the share of energy type by year. Panel b) shows average cumulative green investments for EU firms over the stress test horizon 2025-27.

2.2 Methodological approach to projecting default probabilities and loan losses under the transition risk scenario

To project corporate default probabilities over the stress test horizon, a fixed effects sector-level regression is employed linking corporate failure rates to leverage and profitability. NFCs probabilities of default (PDs) are estimated by leveraging the approach employed by the ECB in the Fit-for-55 scenario analysis, with some adjustments (see Appendix I in ESAs and ECB, 2024). Annual sector-specific PDs are projected by linking sectoral failure rates to projected profitability and leverage, both of which incorporate exogenous climate-related shocks as defined by the NGFS NDCs scenario. The failure rate at sectoral level is calculated as the percentage of failed firms relative to all firms in the sector. Corporate failure is measured by an indicator variable adapted from Gourinchas et al. (2024). This indicator takes a value of 1 if the firms interest expenses exceed its cash holdings and its leverage is larger than 1 over two consecutive years, and 0 otherwise. Leverage is defined as the ratio of total liabilities to total assets, and profitability as the ratio of revenue net of operating expenses to total assets.

Profitability is influenced by several interrelated factors, including interest expenses and the amortisation cost associated with green investments. Investments aimed at reducing CO2 emissions are assumed to be paid off and amortised over a ten-year period. Firms profitability is reduced by interest expenses on the outstanding amount and the amortisation costs of green investments. Additionally, as firms total assets are projected in line with the NGFS scenario path for macroeconomic variables, the transition to a low-carbon economy has an impact on both the numerator and the denominator of leverage, negatively affecting solvency.[4]

Increased green investments, as outlined in the NGFS scenario, affect firms balance sheets through higher indebtedness and lower profitability. The required level of green investment is assumed to depend on the energy intensity and emissions associated with the sector in which a firm operates. Mining and quarrying, manufacturing, electricity generation and transmission and water supply are examples of high energy-intensive sectors. Building, transport and agriculture are considered medium energy-intensive sectors. And some wholesale and trade activities, accommodation and food services, ICT and others are classified as low energy-intensive sectors.

To quantify the effect of climate transition risks on credit losses, projected changes in sectoral PDs are mapped to banks sectoral exposures. AnaCredit data are used to map the projected changes in PD at sectoral level to firms PD and their creditor bank. Thereafter the change in the PDs of NFCs is aggregated at country level and applied to a banks initial PD reported in the EU-wide stress test. Combining the resulting credit losses with those reported under the EBAs 2025 adverse scenario makes it possible to assess how transition risks can amplify the credit losses in an adverse macroeconomic scenario.

2.3 Transition risk results

The leverage and profitability of high energy-intensive firms react most strongly to the transition risk shocks included in the scenario. The average cumulative increase in leverage relative to the 2024 starting point is most pronounced for high energy-intensive firms. They rise by 4.33 percentage points, compared with an increase of 0.74 percentage points in the medium energy-intensive sectors and a decrease of 0.30 percentage points in the low energy-intensive sectors (Chart 2, panel a). Similarly, profitability declines most in the sectors that are heavily reliant on carbon-intensive energy, with an average cumulative reduction of 8.41 percentage points for high energy-intensity sectors and 1.96 percentage points for the others (Chart 2, panel b). These dynamics are driven by several factors. The pronounced decline in profitability observed in energy-intensive sectors reflects not only the conservative assumptions used to translate the scenario variables into firm-level balance sheet outcomes, but also the added burden of higher amortisation and interest expenses associated with green investments. Funds raised to finance green investments also contribute to a significant increase in leverage, adding further strain to firms finances. At the same time, investments allow firms to reduce their consumption of carbon-intensive energy, which lowers their energy costs.

Chart 2 Change in leverage and profitability, by energy intensity a) Leverage b) Profitability (percentage point change) (percentage point change) Sources: ECB, BvD Orbis and ECB calculations.

Note: The figures represent the cumulative percentage point change in leverage (panel a) and profitability (panel b) from 2024 to 2027 under the combined EBA and NGFS scenario at EU aggregate level.

The increase in PD over the three-year horizon is more pronounced for firms operating in high energy-intensive sectors. On average, firms PDs rise by 50%, with the largest share of the increase concentrated in the first year of the stressed period (Chart 3, panel a). Sectors with high energy intensity face the most substantial increase, with default probabilities climbing by a median of 91%, while firms in medium energy-intensity sectors show a more moderate median rise of 28% (Chart 3, panel b).

Chart 3 Firms probability of default a) Change in NFC PD, by year b) Distribution of change in NFC PD (percentage change) (percentage change) Sources: ECB, BvD Orbis and ECB calculations.

Notes: Panel a) shows the cumulative percentage change in NFC PD by year. Panel b) shows the distribution of the cumulative percentage change in NFC PD from 2024 to 2027 across different sectors by energy intensity.

The overall impact of loan losses on banks CET1 ratios remains contained; however, banks with higher exposures to energy-intensive sectors face greater losses. Compared with the 2025 EU-wide stress test results, the additional system-level impact of credit risk losses from banks NFC portfolios on their CET1 capital ratios under the adverse scenario remains moderate, accounting for 74 basis points over the 2025-27 horizon (Chart 4, panel a). The largest additional credit risk losses arise for banks that are most exposed to high energy-intensive sectors, followed by those with the highest exposures to medium and low energy-intensive sectors (Chart 4, panel b).

Chart 4 Distribution of NFC credit risk losses and impact on CET1 capital ratios a) NFC loan losses in the EU-wide stress test with additional climate transition risk b) CET1 impact of additional NFC loan losses due to climate transition risk in the adverse scenario, by bank exposure (basis points) (x-axis: basis points, y-axis: density) Sources: 2025 EU-wide stress test and ECB calculations.

Notes: Panel a) shows the distribution of NFC credit risk losses under the EBAs adverse scenario with additional transition risk shocks. ST2025 stands for the 2025 EU-wide stress test. Panel b) shows a kernel density of the distribution of the incremental loan losses of transition risk on NFCs under the EBAs adverse scenario by exposure to sectors with different energy intensity. Banks are ranked by exposure to high, medium and low energy-intensive sectors. The blue, yellow and orange areas show the distribution of the impact for banks with the highest exposure to each of these in order.

Box 1

Flood events in the EU and impact on corporate loan quality Prepared by Aurora Abbondanza, Ugo Albertazzi, Davor Djekic and Aurea Ponte Marques This box presents a sensitivity analysis of the 2025 EU-wide stress test results looking at the effects of acute physical risks on corporate loan quality. The EBAs 2025 adverse scenario captures the main cyclical risks faced by the EU banking sector, but does not account for climate risk, despite its potential to trigger significant and systemic losses.[5] In this box, bank resilience is therefore assessed against the stress triggered by the financial and the real-economy shocks underpinning the EBAs adverse scenario in conjunction with the materialisation of acute climate physical risks. The analysis focuses on credit risk, the primary transmission channel through which physical risks affect banks financial soundness. It concentrates on corporate loans, considering both data availability and the ubiquity of the business practice of ensuring residential mortgage collateral for physical risk. The analysis is limited to flood events, as these are the best documented in terms of their direct impact on firms activity. However, including other physical climate hazards (e.g. wildfires or droughts) would provide a more comprehensive view of country and sector-specific heterogeneity, as exposure to different types of risks varies widely across countries. The analysis is based on a scenario combining the EBA adverse and the NGFS NDCs scenarios, making it possible to consider the materialisation of physical risk against a backdrop of significant macroeconomic challenges, including a projected cumulative GDP decline of approximately 6.9 percentage points (see Section 2 for a detailed description of the NGFS NDCs scenario). The materialisation of acute physical risk events may lower the credit quality outlook through three distinct transmission channels, each operating at a different level of aggregation. First, floods may have a direct impact on the solvency of the firms directly affected, due to the disruptions and physical asset damage these events typically entail. Second, they may also produce adverse effects on the credit risk of all firms in the area, even those not directly affected, due to disruption to local transportation or service availability, for example. Third, floods may lead to higher credit risk if they result in macroeconomic deterioration, as is the case in the scenario under consideration. This implies that effective stress testing for acute physical risk requires empirical models that capture the credit risk implications of such events at both the firm and local economy levels. It also demands an approach able to construct a meaningful, granular scenario that clearly identifies the specific local areas and firms affected by the acute event assumed to materialise in the scenario. A credible assessment of the impact of acute physical risk scenarios should be conducted at a granular level, however, to capture their local nature. Physical risk exposure from river flooding is highly concentrated in specific regions and affects a relatively small but significant subset of firms in the euro area. The physical risk score measures each borrowers exposure to river flooding for the period 2021-50 under the RCP 4.5 scenario, ranging from 0 (low risk) to 5 (very high risk). As shown in Chart A, panel a), while most firms in the sample exhibit low exposure to physical risk (score 0), a substantial number face moderate to high risk, with more than 22,000 falling into the highest risk category (score 5). Turning to the empirical evidence, physical climate risks can elevate financial vulnerability across wider regions through macroeconomic channels. Under the EBAs adverse scenario combined with the NGFS NDCs scenario, degradation of the macroeconomic environment leads to a broad-based deterioration in credit quality. The probability of corporate defaults rises significantly, peaking in 2026 and reaching levels consistently higher than in the EU-wide stress test (Chart A, panel b). The implied increase in default frequency is around 2 percentage points, cumulatively at the end of the projection horizon. Chart A Probability of default under the EBAs adverse scenario and NGFS NDCs scenario and firm distribution of exposure to physical risk a) Number of firms, by physical risk score b) Probability of default under the EBA adverse and NGFS NDCs scenarios (x-axis: physical risk score; y-axis: number of firms) (percentage, y-axis: probability of default) Source: ECB calculations.

Notes: The histogram in panel a) refers to firms reported in AnaCredit by at least one bank in the sample of the 2025 EU-wide stress test in December 2024. The physical risk score refers to river flooding and is based on the RCP 4.5 scenario set out by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change for the period 2021-50 and is calculated at the borrower level. This granular indicator was computed as part of the ECBs analytical indicators on physical risk statistics. 0 means low risk, 5 very high risk. Panel b) shows the probability of default from top-down stress test models under the EBAs 2025 adverse scenario and NGFS NDCs scenario. A granular physical risk impact assessment, consistent with the combined EBA adverse and NGFS NDCs scenario, can be obtained based on the principle that the affected areas and firms are those displaying the highest levels of physical risk score (Chart A, panel a). This impact assessment assumes materialisation of acute physical risk in the form of widespread floods.[6] The geographical distribution of floods in the scenario is calibrated by assuming that such events concern areas with some exposure to physical risks, that is all municipalities other than those only populated by firms with the lowest physical risk score.[7] This approach identifies 2,786 municipalities as affected, representing 36% of loan exposures in the sample (Chart B, panel b). Within each affected municipality, the 6.4% of firms with the highest climate risk score are assumed to be affected (Chart B, panel a). This fraction corresponds to what has been historically observed in the sample used for the RDD analysis (Table A, panel b). Table A Effect of being in a flooded area (DiD) and effect of being flooded (RDD) on loan quality a) Difference-in-difference (DiD) results (coefficients, standard errors in parenthesis) (1) (2) (3) Flooded -0.002 (0.018) 0.002 (0.023) 0.022 (0.018) Post -0.023 (0.023) -0.011 (0.048) -0.012 (0.020) Flooded x Post 0.099 ** (0.042) 0.181 ** (0.074) 0.107 ** (0.053) Quarters from event [-2,2] [-2,2] [-8,2] Observations 38,522 33,482 72,900 Number of events 55 25 25 b) Regression discontinuity design (RDD) results (coefficients, standard errors in parenthesis) (1) (2) (3) Flooded 0.720 ** (0.362) 1.967 ** (0.919) 1.885 *** (0.652) Distance 0.002 *** (0.001) 0.005 *** (0.002) 0.004 *** (0.001) Flooded x Distance -0.000 (0.002) -0.002 (0.004) -0.003 (0.003) Quarters from event (0,1] (0,1] (0,2] Observations 9,705 2,257 4,506 Number of events 6[1] 1 (Valencia) 1 (Valencia) Source: ECB calculations.

Notes: ***, ** and * denote significance at the 1, 5 and 10 percent levels respectively. Panel a) shows the outcome of a difference-in-difference exercise testing the difference in default probability between firms (regardless of whether or not they are directly affected) in municipalities (NUTS 4) affected by the event and those not affected, before and after the event. The coefficients in bold provide an estimate of the causal effects of being an affected firm on the percentage probability that a performing loan outstanding at the time of the event becomes a deteriorated loan in one of the following quarter(s). Quarterly averages. Panel b) shows the outcome of a regression discontinuity exercise testing the difference in default probability between firms inside and outside the geographical area affected by the event under examination, but arbitrarily close to its border. The coefficients in bold provide an estimate of the causal effects of being an affected (flooded) firm on the percentage probability that a performing loan outstanding at the time of the event becomes a deteriorated loan in one of the following quarter(s). Quarterly averages.

[1] The six events in the RDD sample for which granular geospatial data are available are as follows: flood in southern Ireland (02/2021), flood in Ebro River basin (12/2021), flood in Marche and Umbria regions (09/2022), flood in Emilia-Romagna (05/2023), flood in Tuscany (11/2023), flood in Valencia (10/2024). Some notable events are excluded from the RDD sample due to data limitations but are included in the DiD sample. The impact of physical risk events on corporate loan quality is significant for firms based in affected municipalities, even if they are not directly affected by the event. A difference-in-difference (DiD) exercise assesses the impact of a wide set of events (up to 55) on the loan quality of firms located in affected areas, regardless of whether or not they were directly flooded. The results show that firms in these municipalities also faced a higher likelihood of loan deterioration after the event, with estimated PD increases ranging from 0.1 to 0.2 percentage points compared with unaffected municipalities over the next two quarters, even after considering overall economic conditions (Table A, panel a). These findings are consistent across different timeframes and a wide set of events, confirming the broader regional impact of physical risk, and possibly reflecting disruptions caused to the local economy. Zooming further in on the differential effect at firm level reveals a clear and significant impact of floods on the corporate loan quality of firms directly affected. Using a regression discontinuity design (RDD) based on detailed geolocation data covering both firm locations and the areas affected by acute events, the analysis compares firms located in affected areas with neighbouring unaffected ones, focusing on six major flood events in the euro area since 2018.[8] The results indicate that for loans extended to flooded firms, the probability of becoming non-performing increases by 0.7 percentage points in the next quarter compared with unaffected firms (Table A, panel b). In the specific case of the Valencia flood in 2024, the effect was even stronger  up to 2.0 percentage points in the next two quarters (Table A, panel b, columns 2 and 3). These estimates are statistically significant and suggest a clear causal relationship between direct exposure to physical risk materialisation and worsening loan performance.[9] Chart B Share of affected firms by municipality and shares of firms by type of exposure to physical risk a) Map of municipalities, gradient coloured by share of affected firms in the granular physical risk scenario b) Shares of firms by type of exposure to physical risk in the granular physical risk scenario (percentage, share of affected firms) (percentages) Source: ECB calculations.

Notes: Panel a) shows the EU map of municipalities, gradient coloured by share of affected firms (white for a low share, dark blue for the highest). Panel b) shows the EU aggregate share of firms by type of exposure to physical risk. Capital depletion from the granular physical risk scenario is obtained by integrating the macroeconomic effect of the combined EBA and NGFS scenarios and the estimated impact on credit risk for loans to unaffected firms in affected municipalities, directly affected firms and other domestic firms, with bank-level information on the size of such portfolios. Building on AnaCredit information, each banks portfolio of corporate loans can be divided into the three categories. On aggregate, around 34% of exposures are associated with firms not directly affected by the physical risk scenario but located in affected municipalities. Loans to directly affected firms account for just 2% of banks total portfolios, with the remaining exposures corresponding to other domestic firms. This breakdown allows us to compute the losses obtained in the physical risk scenario for each bank, based on the quantification provided above.[10] Chart C Distribution of bank credit risk losses under the EBA adverse and physical risk (NGFS NDCs combined with granular) scenarios (x-axis: basis points, y-axis: density) Sources: ECB (2025) and ECB calculations.

Note: Kernel density estimate plot visualising the distribution of impairments across banks. The additional credit risk losses stemming from physical climate risk are relatively contained at the aggregate level, but exhibit significant heterogeneity across banks. Chart D, panel a) presents the aggregate results, showing that the combined impact of the EBAs adverse scenario and the NGFS NDCs results in an overall capital depletion of 487 basis points  nearly 77 basis points more than the impact of the EBAs adverse scenario alone. This difference reflects the impact of climate risks and is almost entirely driven by local effects. Interestingly, the largest increases in losses are not concentrated among banks already facing substantial capital depletion under the EBAs adverse scenario, indicating a weak relation between the two sources of risk. For the median bank, capital depletion under the combined scenario is 496 basis points, compared with 419 basis points under the EBAs adverse scenario (Chart C). Notably, for 7% of banks, losses exceed 200 basis points, indicating a concentration in exposure to physical climate risk. Finally, as shown in Chart D, this concentration of losses can arise from any of the three transmission channels through which physical risk materialises: losses from directly affected firms, losses from unaffected firms located in affected areas and losses from broader macroeconomic deterioration. Chart D Breakdown of system-level credit risk losses and banks distribution of climate credit risk losses by type of exposure to physical risk a) Breakdown of system-level credit risk losses, by type of exposure to physical risk b) Distribution of climate credit risk losses, by type of exposure to physical risk (basis points) (basis points) Sources: EU-wide stress test and ECB calculations.

Notes: Panel a) shows the system-level breakdown of credit risk losses by type of exposure to physical risk, in addition to the 2025 EU-wide stress test credit risk losses. Panel b) shows the distribution of the additional physical climate credit risk losses by type of exposure to physical risk. Note that our sample of banks is slightly smaller than the EBA sample; as a result, the figures on CET1 ratio depletion are slightly different.

3 Conclusions

Analysing transition and physical climate risks reveals a moderate yet consequential impact on bank resilience, highlighting the importance of comprehensive financial risk assessments. As authorities across the euro area work towards including climate risks in regular stress-testing frameworks, this analysis offers a starting point for a sensitivity analysis exploring bank resilience to transition and physical climate risks under an adverse macroeconomic scenario (see EBA, 2024). For transition risk, the analysis shows that the additional impact of transition risk on CET1 capital depletion is moderate on aggregate, at 74 basis points, with the largest part of the impact stemming from exposures to high energy-intensive sectors. The impact of physical risk is assessed in Box 1, looking at a sensitivity analysis where a lack of, or delayed and fragmented transition, policies is associated with higher physical risk over the medium term. The impact of acute physical risk is estimated to increase CET1 capital depletion by 77 basis points beyond the depletion indicated by the EBAs adverse scenario. Our analysis indicates that transition and physical climate risks can have a moderate but consequential impact on banks capital ratios. Additionally, the banks most exposed to climate-related losses may differ from those identified as most vulnerable in the broader EU-wide assessment (see Rodriguez dAcri and Shaw, 2025). Together, these findings underscore the importance of incorporating both types of climate risk into regular financial stability assessments.

References

Alogoskoufis, A., Dunz, N., Emambakhsh, T., Hennig, T., Kaijser, M., Kouratzoglou, C., Munoz, M., Parisi, L. and Salleo, C. (2021), ECB economy-wide climate stress test: Methodology and results, Occasional Paper Series, No 281, ECB.

Budnik et al. (2024), Advancements in stress-testing methodologies for financial stability applications, Occasional Paper Series, No 348, ECB.

EBA (2024), Board of Supervisors: Minutes of the conference call on 10 December 2024.

EBA (2025), Annual Report  Year 2024.

EBA (2025a), Macro-financial scenario for the 2025 EU-wide banking sector stress test.

ECB (2022), ECB report on good practices for climate stress testing, December.

ECB (2025), 2025 stress test of euro area banks: Final results, August.

ESAs and ECB (2024), Fit-for-55 climate scenario analysis, November.

Emambakhsh, T., Fuchs, M., Kordel, S., Kouratzoglou, C., Lelli, C., Pizzeghello, R., Salleo, C. and Spaggiari, M. (2022), The Road to Paris: stress testing the transition towards a net-zero economy, Occasional Paper Series, No 328, ECB.

ESAs (2025), Joint Consultation Paper on draft joint guidelines to ensure that consistency, long-term considerations and common standards for assessment methodologies are integrated into the stress testing of environmental, social and governance risks pursuant to Article 100(4) of Directive 2013/36/EU and Article 304c(3) of Directive 2009/138/EC, June.

ESRB (2025), Annual Report 2024, July.

Gourinchas, P., Kalemli-Ozcan, S., Penciakova, V., Sander, N. (2024), SME Failures Under Large Liquidity Shocks: an Application to the Covid-19 Crisis, Journal of the European Economic Association, 23(2), 431480.

NGFS (2024), Climate Scenarios, Phase V, November.

NGFS (2025), Short-term Climate Scenarios, May.

Oom, D. et al. (2022), Pan-European wildfire risk assessment, Publications Office of the European Union, Luxembourg.

Statistics Committee Expert Group on Climate Change and Statistics and Working Group on Securities Statistics (2024), Climate change-related statistical indicators, Statistics Paper Series, No 48, ECB.

UNEP (2024), A Comprehensive Review of Global Supervisory Climate Stress Tests, July.
TELL us about yourself;

My name is Lily Carey Murphy and I am a 21-year-old musical theatre performer from Ballincollig, Cork. I trained at CADA Performing Arts, which fostered my love for the arts so much that I ended up moving to London to train professionally at the Urdang Academy. I just recently graduated with a BA (Hons) in Professional Dance and Musical Theatre, and since then have been working as a singing waitress with the Daisy Green Collection.

People liked to call me the Irish Anna Kendrick in university, which I took and ran with, so I hope that can give you an indication of what my personality is like!

Where were you born?

I was born in Cork.

Where do you live?

Right now, I am living just north of central London in Holloway, but when I come home, I live with my mum in Cork City which is so handy as my driving skills are non-existent at the moment.

Family?

My family consists of my mum, Deirdre, dad Barry and my brother Luke. We dont talk every day when I am in London, but I am so grateful for all their support, more than they will ever know, as I would not be doing what I love without them behind me every step of the way. My brother has a beautiful baby, Bonnie, with his wife Sophie. She is turning 2 in January, and I have the honour of being godmother to her as she is an absolute legend! I would also just like to give a shoutout to my godmother, Joanna and my cousin Emil,y as they have been massive supporters of me in both my personal life and career from pretty much when I came out of the womb!

Best friend?

As much as she will probably laugh at me being a softie, my best friend is my flatmate Louise. We met on the first day of drama school, three and a half years ago and have been pretty much attached at the hip ever since! She is who I go to for silly advice, a dance party in the kitchen, or we often enjoy a cup of tea and a natter with some form of random documentary or show on for background noise! She is truly a gem and I wouldnt have gotten through my time at Urdang without her.

Earliest childhood memory?

My earliest childhood memory is me performing in my montessori show with a cardboard flower around my head. I was performing and ran off the stage and my parents came back to ask what was wrong and I came out with, Why are you looking at me with your eyes? Upon reflection, that is quite gas as I have ended up going down the route of performing as a career. If only my parents knew the diva I would become

Person you most admire?

The person I most admire is Renee Rapp. She is a musical theatre performer turned pop star whom I look up to as she is always unapologetically herself. In every interview I watch of her, I am crying with laughter as she never hides any aspect of who she is for anyone. I really respect that and try to do that in my own life (not to mention her singing voice is so magical to listen to).

Person who most irritates you?

I work in hospitality when I am not performing so I deal with MANY types of people. I think the worst has to be anyone who starts explaining my job to me over the counter, as every time it happens, a part of me wants to turn around and say, 'Would you like to hop behind the bar for the rest of my shift? but of course I keep that to myself.

Where was your most memorable holiday?

A lot of my childhood was spent going to London with my mum to go watch theatre shows as we preferred that over sun holidays a lot of the time. However, one sunny holiday that sticks out to me is when I went to Tenerife with my flatmates after our summer show for a week. It was an insane time that I will never forget!

Favourite TV programme?

My favourite TV programme that I could watch over and over again is How to Get Away with Murder. Viola Davis is an absolute masterclass in acting and being able to command a space with her energy. I also LOVE reality TV, especially RuPauls Drag Race. My comfort shows are always British sitcoms like Miranda and Gavin and Stacey, which have really shaped my humour.

Favourite radio show?

I do not listen to the radio much but I do LOVE a podcast. My top 3 are: Im Grand Mam (as I always just feel like I am having a goss with two friends from home when I listen), Call to Stage with Amber Davies (as she always brings on guests who have the best theatre industry advice) and Back to the Barre (as queens Christi and Kelly recap my childhood favourite show: Dance Moms)

Your signature dish if cooking?

When it comes to cooking, I do not often enjoy taking my time, as I am just thinking about the end product. My signature dish would be a chicken burrito bowl if I was taking my time and wanting to cook something for a guest.

Favourite restaurant?

I do not have a particular restaurant in London, but I absolutely love every time I go to Greek restaurants. If I was to pick a restaurant in Cork, it would have to be Luigi Malones as I have celebrated so many occasions there and always enjoyed the food and staff.

Last book you read?

I am gearing up for the new Bridgerton season in the new year so I recently went back and read Benedict Bridgertons book, An Offer from a Gentleman, by Julia Quinn. Such a fabulous Cinderella story.

Best book you read?

I think it has to be Everything I Know About Love by Dolly Alderton. She perfectly captures what living life in a big city in your 20s feels like, and she does it with such humour that I was sat on many a Ryanair plane home cackling to myself silently while reading it.

Last album/CD/download you bought?

I have a vivid memory of owning a CD version of Overcome by Alexandra Burke as a child, so I would always be blaring Bad Boys and Broken Heels in the car or at home. The last album I downloaded was probably Cat Burns new album, How To Be Human.

Favourite song?

Ever? This is like picking a favourite child. I love so many songs, but I think it has to be Iris by The Goo Goo Dolls. I am a hopeless romantic and I think the message of someone wanting to give up everything they have for the sake of someone else is so special. Musical theatre-wise, I think it has to be, The Flight of the Blue Fly from Amelie, as it is all about how the whole world is connected, which is always a fascinating thing to think about.

One person you would like to see in concert?

I am absolutely gutted that I do not have Pitbull tickets for his concert in Hyde Park as I know all his songs back to front so if anyone knows anyone please hit me up. However, for a showstopper, I would pay heaps of money to see Lady Gaga. She has so many songs I love and really knows how to put on a show. Recently, I am loving what Katseye are doing as a girl band so I would love to see them too.

Do you have a pet?

I dont.

Morning person or night owl?

This truly depends on the day. People in school always used to be fascinated by my morning energy, but now that I work late nights in pubs, I have become a bit of a night owl, which I never thought I would say. However, once I am up, I am UP.

Your proudest moment?

In my personal life, my proudest moment was genuinely when I got on the plane to London for the first time on my own when I moved over. There were many tears but I think it gave me a level of independence which is now integral to who I am as a person. In my professional life, it would have to be the production of The Secret Garden that I did in my second year at Urdang. It was directed by Nathanael Campbell, and I played Martha and was also a vocal captain. Pulling such an insanely innovative and magical piece of theatre together in eight days was such a proud moment for me, the cast and the creatives, and I remember many tears were shed when we sang the last rendition of the finale.

Spendthrift or saver?

I love having savings in my account but once I start shopping for one thing, I cannot stop myself sometimes. I could go into a shop for a toothbrush and walk out with a new wardrobe.

Name one thing you would improve in your area in which you live?

I am an avid Lime bike user when I am in London, so I would have to say the roads as there are times where I am riding said bike and wondering how I havent flown off due to the state of some of the bike lanes.

What makes you happy?

I feel my most happy when I am performing and using performance for change.

How would you like to be remembered?

I want to be remembered as always trying my best to help those around me. Whether it is advice over coffee or just being a shoulder to cry on, I hope that I can be remembered for being there when people need someone to have a rant to. I also will always be the biggest hype girl and like everyone's stories and hype them up. CREDIT WHERE CREDIT'S DUE!

What else are you up to at the moment?

I recently returned home for rehearsals for The Everyman Panto, Cinderella, directed by the fabulous Catherine Mahon Buckley. I will be playing one of the stepsisters alongside the queen that is Roisin Lane and I do not know if the public is ready for this iconic duo! I am so excited to be making my professional debut at home, and I am so ready to bring the humour, sass and diva villain energy to The Everyman stage. Grab your tickets to the ball, but do not try grabbing the prince from me.

Cinderella opens in the theatre on November 29. See www.everymancork.com
University College Corks (UCC) arboretum has had its prestigious international accreditation renewed for a further five years.

The universitys tree collection joins leading arboreta around the world in being accredited by the ArbNet Arboretum Accreditation Programme, with UCC remaining the only Level 2 arboretum in Ireland.

ArbNet created the accreditation programme to establish and share a widely recognised set of standards for the purpose of unifying the arboretum community.

The accreditation is based on self-assessment and documentation of an arboretums level of achievement of accreditation standards, including planning, governance, number of species, staff or volunteer support, education and public programming, and tree-science research and conservation.

Planted at the foundation of the university in 1845, the trees at UCC chart a history of global exploration, scientific curiosity, and cultural exchange.

Wonderful

Speaking about the renewal, Eoin Lettice, of the UCC Arboretum, said it is wonderful to see our tree collection being acknowledged on the global stage.

Since the foundation of the university, 180 years ago this year, the botanical collection has played an important teaching, research and outreach role across diverse disciplines at UCC, Mr Lettice said.

The collection remains a living laboratory for teaching and learning as well as contributing significantly to UCCs status as one of the worlds most sustainable universities.

The UCC tree collection contains over 2,500 trees of about 130 different species from all over the world.

Not only do they contribute to the key aims of the university, as tools for teaching, research and public engagement, they are contributing to the ex situ conservation of some of the rarest plant species on the planet, Mr Lettice said.

Innovation and research

Barbara Doyle Prestwich, vice-head of school at the School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences at UCC said the university is delighted to celebrate the renewed accreditation by putting into some context the modern role of an arboretum in driving and facilitating innovation and research.

When we reflect on the important role of plants and trees in society and culture, it is clear that they have the capacity to solve some of the existential problems of our time such as climate change and food insecurity, Dr Doyle Prestwich said.
Tanaiste Simon Harris has taken over as minister for finance, filling the vacancy left by Paschal Donohoe, who has resigned from Government to take up the second-most senior role with the World Bank. Mr Donohoe will resign from the Dail later this week.

Since 2016, Mr Donohoe has alternated between ministries in the departments of public expenditure and finance.

Helen McEntee will take over in foreign affairs and defence, while Hildegard Naughton will succeed her in education.

Mr Donohoes departure from the Department of Finance has been described by his Fine Gael colleagues in Cork as a huge loss to the country.

His departure will spark a byelection, which must occur within six months.

Fine Gael TD for Cork South Central and minister for state, Jerry Buttimer, said Mr Donohoes appointment to the World Bank showed the esteem in which he was held internationally.

He has shown himself to be a man of intellect, steady hand, calm voice, and somebody who has been admired across the political divide and across the world, Mr Buttimer said.

We started together as councillors and we served in the Seanad and the Dail, and hes been an exceptional minister and a good friend.

Fine Gael TD for Cork North Central, Colm Burke, said Mr Donohoe had brought the countrys finances from a position of great difficulty to a point of prosperity.

He has made a huge contribution in stabilising the Irish economy and managing the finances of the State, he said.

Fine Gael councillor for Cork City North-West, Damian Boylan, said: Twenty years is a long time to be a public representative, and he has done the State some service.

Hes been a brilliant minister, and hell be a huge loss to the country.

Fine Gael county councillor for Carrigaline, Una McCarthy, said Mr Donohoes departure was a huge development.

Its a bit of a shock to hear that hes leaving politics, hell be a significant loss to the country, but on a personal level Im delighted for him, she said.

Its a wonderful achievement, and a well-deserved accolade that shows that hes held in such high esteem on a world level.

I wish him all the best for the future. He was always very pleasant to deal with, always very approachable, especially as a new councillor, and Im sure hell thrive in his next chapter.

Her fellow councillor, Jack White, said Mr Donohoe had been very encouraging.

Paschal was always extremely supportive of county councillors, in a world where not all ministers are, and that was always very appreciated by us, he said.

Paying tribute to the Dublin Central TD, Taoiseach Micheal Martin said Mr Donohoes election to three terms as president of the Eurogroup of finance ministers showed the deep esteem in which he was held across Europe.
THERE has been a mixed reception for the re-opening of Bishop Lucey Park, with some activists saying they felt gutted and cheated when they first walked through the cold and dead newly reopened park, which the council has argued will be more biodiverse than its previous iteration.

Anti-dereliction campaigners Frank OConnor and Jude Sherry told The Echo: The only green space and park in the city centre is no longer a green space or park. Seriously, how did this cost 7m?"

Lack of green space

All the concerns we raised in the original consultation in July 2021 have proven to be true, such as a lack of green space, trees, biodiversity, drinking water fountains, and public toilets, as well as the reduction of seating, the inaccessibility of much of the park and the majority of the new seating, and the dominance of carbon intensive materials, and the coldness of the aesthetic.

It is depressing, a serious lack of beauty that is so vital for wellbeing. It feels so cold and dead with so little nature. We felt gutted and cheated walking through on Saturday. This is a very questionable use of money and resources, the campaigners said.

Positives are conservation of the boxers memorial wall and the medieval wall, and the removal of the railings and gates make it an access all hours thoroughfare.

Manmade materials

Local artist Rob Meehan said: Having watched the destruction and construction of the only green space in the immediate city centre, I was disheartened to see what passes for a park in 2025.

A space once dominated by grass and trees is now a mishmash of manmade material, he said, adding that he was concerned how this would hold up against the elements.

A running theme of city planning in Cork is often seen to choose materials unfit for purpose. With the removal of the gates and rails, it does feel more open, but this also adds to the feel of the park now being a walkway rather than a destination spot within the city.

Mr Meehan argued that there should have been more amenities such as toilets, picnic tables, and better lighting.

Instead, we are given an inexplicably expensive, as-of-yet unfinished, thoroughfare that is at its core, a path with some odd builds throughout. I am still unsure what the purpose of the hollow upstanding rectangle is, he said.

Trees are essential for cities, they are cooling in summer, shelter in winter, improve air quality, improve the lived aesthetic experience of any space and ensure cohesion between nature and the built environment. They are too-often removed from the city.

Mr Meehan said other features should have been treated with greater reverence such as the old city walls, and John Behans Swan Fountain sculpture, which he said has lost visual impact.

While it certainly still offers an interesting contrast with its Verdigris patina to the red surrounds, it somehow feels out of place.

Overall, the park is sadly amiss, it lacks biodiversity, amenities, recreational space, aesthetic experience and most importantly, soul. Ours is an ancient city, we have a long history, much of which was lost in 1920. I understand that the council meant well with the redevelopment of the park and want the best for the city, but walking through, its hard to say they met their target.

Picture Denis Minihane.

Plaza or park

Sinn Fein TD Thomas Gould said he too felt his 2021 submission was completely ignored, and instead, trees and grass were removed and replaced with concrete and metal.

There is no sheltered or age friendly seating. There is a lack of character, and what was once a green lung in the heart of the city now looks like slabs of poured concrete and metal, Mr Gould said.

I cannot understand how this cost 7m excluding vat. The finished cost is likely to be closer to 10m. This is a real missed opportunity.

Green party councillor Oliver Moran said its a dramatic change from what was there previously.

It has changed from being a very definite park to being more of a plaza. Apart from the design, there are implications like the railings coming down and the area now being open 24/7, instead of opening and closing as a park does, Mr Moran said.

You can see how it has changed the way people interact with the space already. People seem to naturally pass through it now, the seating is being used, thats going to change its meaning.

From the point of view of it still being a park, its just been finished by the infrastructure development team and next it will now be handed over to parks.

Ive spoken to them and they intend to add more planting, so that aspect will evolve.

Im mindful that its also winter, by the time summer comes, it could look very different again from what it is now.

Mr Moran said the gates will be rehung on the entrance arches but in a permanently open position. They are currently being restored by a specialist in France.

Park a 'place for all'

A Cork City Council spokesperson said modern, city centre parks must evolve to meet the changing needs of their communities.

The design brief for Bishop Lucey Park was to create a place for all  a versatile public space which encourages multi-generational participation and enjoyment in formal and informal situations.

The redesigned park is capable of hosting events throughout the year and in all weather, with power points and lighting and a new pavilion to facilitate this.

They said these will be used for planned Corkmas pop-up events over the coming weekends.

Part of the design brief was also to create pedestrian linkages and movement, and by opening up the space, an unimpeded flow from Grand Parade through to Corks medieval spine is now possible, the spokesperson said.

The increase in footfall through the park that this will create, combined with the removal of visual barriers previously created by fencing, and the installation of improved public lighting in the park, will encourage passive surveillance and security.

The heritage of this part of the city is also a centrepiece of the park with the citys medieval walls brought into focus. Landscaping and planting have been carried out but the full impact of this work will be more evident in the spring and summer when trees are in leaf and planting beds in bloom.

The low-level planting is now more biodiverse, where there was once only grass. There is a green roof on the pavilion structure to further encourage biodiversity, and all lighting is bat friendly.

The spokesperson added that while seven trees were removed to facilitate the construction of the park, 16 new semi-mature trees were planted.
A man in his 30s was taken to hospital on Monday night following an alleged assault in Cork city centre.

Gardai responded to reports of an incident, which occurred in the Anglesea Street area of Cork city, at approximately 10.20pm.

As a result of the incident, a man in his 30s was taken to Cork University Hospital for treatment of non-life threatening injuries.

It is understood that the alleged assault took place at a temporary accommodation facility.

A spokesperson for An Garda Siochana told The Echo that enquiries into the alleged assault are currently ongoing.
Cork city and county councillors have come together to oppose a planned incinerator development in Ringaskiddy, as public representatives have urged Failte Ireland to put in a submission of their own.

Belgian firm Indaver has lodged new documents with An Coimisiun Pleanala, looking to advance the project which it first sought approval for in 2016.

Cork County Councils CEO agreed to make a submission opposing the development on behalf of the council after Sinn Feins Eoghan Fahy and Fianna Fails Patrick Donovan called for a suspension of standing orders to discuss the plans at a recent council meeting.

Elected members of Cork City Council have now said in a letter to the planning board that they endorse the county councils submission.

Shared

Councillors explained that Cork Harbour is a shared and unifying resource between the local authorities, and there is no boundary between Cork City Council and Cork County Councils functional areas with respect to air pollution.

They said: Developments allowed within the county area that negatively impact air quality and the health of residents there have the potential to equally negatively impact air quality and the health of residents in the city area, and vice versa.

The letter comes on foot of a motion by Green Party councillors Dan Boyle, Oliver Moran, and Honore Kamegni, and is signed by the three Labour councillors Peter Horgan, Ciara OConnor, John Maher, Sinn Feins Michelle Gould and Joe Lynch, Social Democrats Niamh OConnor, and People Before Profit-Solidaritys Brian McCarthy.

It has also been signed by Lord Mayor and Fianna Fail councillor Fergal Dennehy, his party colleague Terry Coleman, Fine Gaels Gary OBrien, Shane OCallaghan, and Damian Boylan, and Independent councillors Albert Deasy and Paudie Dineen.

Objection

Social Democrats TD Liam Quaide has called for Failte Ireland to also put in an objection with regard to the potential impact of the development on tourism. The body told Mr Quaide that it will be making a submission to An Coimisiun Pleanala in which it will request that the potential for impacts on the tourism, recreation, and amenity value of Cork Harbour be given due consideration.

The Cork East TD said in response: An Coimisiun Pleanala does not possess equivalent expertise in tourism. Your direct and unambiguous professional opinion on the likely negative impact of this development is therefore essential to ensure that tourism implications are fully and properly represented in the assessment. The proposed facility would introduce a large, discordant, and highly visible industrial structure at a pivotal, centrally located harbourside site, just 800m from Spike Island and visible from Cobh, Fort Camden, and every point within the harbour basin.

Tourism

Fine Gael councillor Jack White told The Echo that he has also written to the tourism body, adding: From the beginning of this latest chapter on our fight against the incinerator, I have been focusing on the massive tourism asset that is Cork Harbour, and trying to draw attention to the huge investment Failte Ireland, Cork County Council, Cork City Council, and others have put into developing tourism. It has to be defended.

The binary situation here is that we either have a serious tourism offering, or we have an incinerator. The incinerator would destroy the tourism potential in the harbour.
WorkAbilitys Cork programme has marked its first anniversary, celebrating a year of transforming employment opportunities for people with disabilities.

Delivered in collaboration between Secad Partnership and Cork Chamber, the programme has supported 80 participants to gain new skills, confidence, and pathways toward meaningful employment.

WorkAbility Cork supports employers and jobseekers in creating and accessing more inclusive and diverse workplaces throughout the region, empowering individuals of all abilities to find work while helping businesses embrace inclusive recruitment and practices.

The milestone was marked with a showcase event on November 18 at Penrose Dock, bringing together programme participants, employers, and community partners to highlight the progress achieved since the projects launch last year.

Speaking following the event, Rob Horgan, president of Cork Chamber said: Inclusion strengthens and enriches both our workplaces and our communities.

The WorkAbility project demonstrates how collaboration between business and community partners can create real opportunity and belonging, helping Cork to thrive as a region where everyone has a place and a purpose.

Ryan Howard, CEO of Secad Partnership, said the showcase event also coincided with Secads 30th anniversary, and that they were extremely proud of the initiative and all 80 of their participants.

With 18 progressed into employment, 23 completing accredited training in areas such as food safety and hospitality, and 15 gaining job-shadowing experience, this is just the beginning. This initiative is only getting going and we see huge potential for it, he added.

Trevor ONeill, a programme participant currently completing an internship with NetApp, said WorkAbility helped him regain confidence and develop the skills needed to pursue his dream job: It opened doors to opportunities I never imagined possible.

Emma Palmer, talent outreach manager EMEA at NetApp, said: Welcoming our first participant into the company was seamless thanks to the guidance and support from Secad and Cork Chamber.
Three of the four accused men charged in connection with the alleged smuggling of 31m worth of cocaine at Courtmacsherry, West Cork, in July will enter guilty pleas the district court has heard.

The four men, Mark Doherty, aged 40, of Waterfoot Avenue, Glasgow, Scotland; Levent Gulay, aged 31, of Schwabenstrae, Neu Ulm, Bavaria, Germany; Christopher Hibbett, aged 44, of Lower Park, Trissillian, Truro, Cornwall, England, and Ben Sandford, aged 39, of Woodgreen, Drumm Road, Keith, Moray, Scotland, all appeared before Judge John King at Clonakilty District Court by video link from prison.

The four were initially charged under the Misuse of Drugs Act, 1977, with possession of cocaine under Section 3 and possession of cocaine for sale or supply under Section 15. Further charges were brought against all four at Bandon District Court on Monday of possession of more than 13,000 worth of cocaine for the purpose of sale or supply and importation of cocaine.

In addition Sandford and Hibbett were charged with the possession of a rigid inflatable boat (Rib) to commit a criminal offence and Doherty and Gulay were charged with the possession of Motorola and Google phones to commit an offence.

Solicitor for Doherty, Plunkett Taaffe, told the court it was his clients intention to enter a signed guilty plea. Mr Taaffe, acting as agent for Frank Buttimer, said it was also the intention of Sandford to enter a signed guilty plea to the charges. Solicitor Myra Dinneen, acting as agent for Eddie Burke, said that Hibbett has also indicated his intention to enter a signed plea to the charges. Ms Dinneen said her client Gulay would reserve his position.

Judge King remanded Gulay in custody to appear in person at Bandon District Court on December 12 to indicate his attitude to a guilty plea or for service of a book of evidence.

Judge King remanded Doherty, Sandford, and Hibbett in custody to appear at Bandon District Court on December 12 to enter singed pleas and be sent forward to Cork Circuit Criminal Court.

Doherty and Gulay were arrested on Tuesday, July 1, when gardai from the Garda National Drugs and Organised Crime Bureau stopped a van in the Courtmacsherry area and cocaine valued in excess of 31m was seized by the Revenue Customs Service.

Ben Sandford and Christopher Hibbett were arrested on a Rib that departed Courtmacsherry on July 1 and was intercepted by two Naval Service Ribs dispatched from the LE William Butler Yeats off the coast of Waterford.
Is international law working in todays world? That was the theme of a conference I attended recently in UCCs Council Room organised by FLAC (Free Legal Advice Centres), a non-profit human rights body.

The conference was entitled Fractured Foundations - Can International Law Still Deliver Justice? As the Internal Convenor of FLAC, I was delighted to support Akshita Gupta in developing the plan for it and seeing it come into fruition.

We live in a world torn by war, climate change and human rights violations, where the most vulnerable are at the mercy of the most powerful, as demonstrated by conflicts in Gaza, Ukraine and now, Iran.

Akshita, tasked with her Politics and Society Leaving Cert project, began thinking about these failings of international law. Her inspiration for the conference came from feeling a lack of justice in the world and that theres something fundamentally flawed in our international system.

These sentiments motivated her to bring together a range of perspectives to explore if international law is still worth advocating for and protecting. The conference was an opportunity to delve into the topic and hear the view points of activists, experts, and those with personal stories to share, in the search for possible answers to our questions.

It was fantastic to bring academics into this conversation and learn from their wealth of knowledge. Dug Cubie, an International Law Lecturer at UCC, opened with a powerful reminder that international law remains one of humanitys few tools for accountability and peace. Although it is flawed and there are a plethora of examples of its shortcomings, such as an increase in slavery and the conflict in Sudan, international law also operates effectively every single day. We receive our post in the mail, can travel between countries, and consume bananas from Asia. These are just a few of the many ways in which international law is working favourably. So, perhaps it is very much worth maintaining?

Maryam Yabo, a PhD Legal Researcher at Trinity, challenged the audience to confront its flaws through the TWAIL lens. It stands for Third World Approaches to International Law, and is a critical scholarly and political movement, viewing international law as being rooted in colonial history. Thus, its Eurocentric origins continue to reinforce the global inequality we bear witness to each day.

However, the theory serves to accomplish more than critique. It also seeks to re-imagine the law to be more equitable and inclusive, with a particular focus on socio-economic rights for the Global South. Maryam reminded us of the origins of international law, in developed countries. She exposed how the systems of power that cultivated it still shape our ideas of what universal justice looks like.

As well as organising the international law conference, I was honoured to sit on a panel of fantastic youth activists. The conversation, between Theresa Rose Sebastian, Rayaa Onog, Mohammed Naeem and I, chaired by Sumaya Mohammed, was an incredible opportunity to reflect on how my activism fits into international law, why this system of accountability needs reform, and ways in which we can all contribute to cultivating a more just world.

I found this conversation with my peers to be deeply informative, thoughtful and fruitful, and Id like to thank my fellow advocates for their contributions to the discussion.

Theresa Rose Sebastian is a South Indian-Irish climate activist and final year law student at the University of Glasgow. Shes co-founder of international non-profit Re-Earth Initiative and has over four years experience engaging in international multilateral climate negotiations and processes like COP. Her insights, into the value of community and how supporting one another on a day to day basis sets the tone for the world we want to live in, were fascinating. She emphasised the importance of caring for people around you whilst standing in solidarity with those across the globe facing injustice and oppression.

Rayaas perspectives on how young people should be given an influential say in international law were really insightful because as a Child Rights Ambassador with EuroChild, she works directly with EU policymakers to ensure such voices are heard on critical issues.

I agree that youth leadership could be a vital cornerstone for strengthening international law, as we must face modern day issues and consider future generations in our advocacy.

Mohammed Naeems views on international law were particularly insightful as he shared his experiences as Irelands United Nations Youth Delegate. He noted how hopeful he was about change-making when he stepped into activism, as a member of Comhairle na nOg and the Second-Level Students Union, in comparison with the setbacks he faced as a UN Youth Delegate, such as racism and feelings of imposter syndrome. He said the system we have is far from ideal,but is an important mechanism for protecting human rights and at least trying to maintain peace and security.

Not only is international law an established instrument for inciting change, the instrument itself must also be changed. For example, spaces that orchestrate international law need to be more accessible and inclusive, ensuring a diverse range of voices are heard.

The panel was excellently led by Sumaya Mohammed,an environmentalist and UCC law student here in Cork, originally of Somalia. She began her climate activism at 12 and began organising climate strikes in Cork. Passionate about the role of education in combatting the climate crisis, she co-founded SCAN, the Student Climate Action Network, and has since engaged with processes such as COP- Conference of the Parties.

She is now a Quercus Active Citizenship Scholar and Environmental & Sustainability Representative for UCC Students Union. It was brilliant to have a young person who is also passionate about international issues chairing the panel, as she wove in her own point of view, experiences and opinions.

Overall, this conference filled me with hope for international law.

Evidently, it is failing people around the world in devastating ways. However, I was reminded that, at the same time, international law is still consistently upholding many of our freedoms and liberties. The rule of law and justice still matter, even if international law is undermined by many world leaders everyday.

The conference highlighted a real actuality that we can easily lose sight of when focusing on the atrocities shown on the news each day, that people are still fighting to ensure international law is effective and enforced.

Perhaps the solution, therefore, isnt to throw the system in place out the window entirely but instead, reform these mechanisms.

To conclude, though you and I are not world leaders or diplomats on a global stage, we are all members of the human race and each have an impact on communities around us. Through solidarity, respect, empathy, collaboration and determination, we can each play our part in eliminating the fractures rippling through our international law, and so I urge you to carry these values into your everyday life.
(Photo: Robert Evans)

Christian Solidarity International is urging U.S. President Donald Trump to demand the release of Armenian Christian hostages held by Azerbaijan.

CSI reported in particular on Nov. 18 that Vicken Euljekjian, a citizen of Armenia and Lebanon who has been illegally detained by Azerbaijan for five years, is in dramatically deteriorating health, his family and supporters have revealed.

Euljekjian is one of at least 23 Armenian Christian hostages being held by the Azerbaijani authorities.

President Trump had pledged on August 8, 2025, to ask Azerbaijan's President Ilham Aliyev for the release of all "23 Christians," including Vicken, according to CSI which said that Trump had "added optimistically," "I think he'll do it for me."

Aliyev has so far refused to meet President Trump's humanitarian request. Christian Solidarity International (CSI) urges Trump to demand the immediate release of Vicken Euljekjian and all other Armenian Christian hostages held by the Aliyev regime.

"Vicken Euljekjian and the other Armenian Christian hostages referred to by President Trump appear to have been left behind by the Washington-led peace process between Azerbaijan and Armenia," commented CSI Director for Public Advocacy . Joel Veldkamp.

Shi'a Muslim leader Sheikh ul-Islam Allahshukur Pashazade (L) and Armenian Church head Catholicos Garegin II at the World Religious Leaders Summit in Baku, Azerbaijan. (Photo: The Armenian Church)

Separately CSI, which is an interconfessional Christian human rights organization, said it visited Armenia from November 13-17.

During the visit, CSI International president John Eibner and director of advocacy Joel Veldkamp met with religious leaders, human rights lawyers, and political leaders to assess mounting concerns over religious freedom and government interference in church affairs in Armenia which is a mainly Christian country.

During the visit, CSI was not granted permission to visit detained clergy and supporters of the Armenian Apostolic Church by the Ministry of Justice, a development that Veldkamp described in a press conference as irregular.

CSI further notes that in the weeks preceding its visit, two family members of the head of the Armenian national church, two defense lawyers, and the elected mayor of Armenia's second-largest city were detained, and a second mayor representing the opposition Country for Living party was murdered.

The CSI delegation also witnessed an escalating government crackdown on free media, including the detention of two podcasters and a journalist by masked internal security officers on the day of their arrival, as well as a call by ruling party lawmakers to confiscate the Union of Journalists' building, which was issued just as Eibner was being hosted for an interview in that very building.

During the visit, CSI was not granted permission to visit detained clergy and supporters of the Armenian Apostolic Church by the Ministry of Justice, a development that Veldkamp described in a Saturday press conference as irregular.

CSI further noted that in the weeks preceding its visit, two family members of the head of the Armenian national church, two defense lawyers, and the elected mayor of Armenia's second-largest city were detained, and a second mayor representing the opposition Country for Living party was murdered.

The CSI delegation said it also witnessed an escalating government crackdown on free media, including the detention of two podcasters and a journalist by masked internal security officers on the day of their arrival, as well as a call by ruling party lawmakers to confiscate the Union of Journalists' building, which was issued just as Eibner was being hosted for an interview in that very building.

In Jly when it was reported that the Armenian government and the Armenian Apostolic Church were at odds with each other, the World Council of Churches has called upon the government in Yerevan to respect religious freedom.

Regarding Euljekjian, CSI said that in a sworn affidavit on November 16, his wife, Linda, and a legal representative, Luciana Minassian, called for an immediate independent medical evaluation of Euljekjian, who is being held in prison in Baku.

- 'CAN NO LONGER WALK'

It followed a phone call between Linda Euljekjian and her husband, in which Vicken stated that he can no longer walk, his physical condition has dramatically worsened, and he now requires a wheelchair for mobility, although this has not been provided.

"On this date, 16 November 2025, Mr. Vicken Euljekjian placed a brief telephone call to his family. This marks the first contact after more than forty-five (45) days during which Azerbaijani authorities prevented all communication," according to the document published on X.

Euljekjian told his wife that he had been taken to see a doctor but had received no medication or treatment. "He remains without medical care, in violation of basic humanitarian standards," the document stated.

The Armenian detainee also reported that proper meals were being withheld from him and that all the nourishment he received was tea and bread.

"The denial of medical care, food deprivation, obstruction of medication, and the refusal to provide a wheelchair pose a grave threat to Vicken's health and life," the affidavit continued.

"These conditions  if verified  may constitute violations of international human law, the rights of detainees to humane treatment, UN Standard Minimum Rules for the Treatment of Prisoners (Mandela Rules), the prohibition of cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment."

In conclusion, the affidavit called for an immediate international response including humanitarian access to the prisoner by qualified international bodies, the provision of a wheelchair, medical assistance and proper nutrition.

Euljekjian, 46, is a citizen of Armenia and Lebanon, who CSI said was kidnapped by Azerbaijani troops in Nagorno Karabakh on November 10, 2020  a day after a ceasefire between Armenia and Azerbaijan ended the Second Karabakh War. He is one of six civilian hostages held by Azerbaijan.
One of Meta's top AI researchers, Yann LeCun, is leaving after 12 years with the company to found his own AI startup, he announced. LeCun, who is also a professor at New York University, joined the company in 2013 to lead Meta's Fundamental AI Research (FAIR) lab and later took on the role of Chief AI Scientist.

LeCun said his new startup would "continue the Advanced Machine Intelligence research program (AMI) I have been pursuing over the last several years with colleagues at FAIR, at NYU, and beyond" and that it would partner with Meta. "The goal of the startup is to bring about the next big revolution in AI: systems that understand the physical world, have persistent memory, can reason, and can plan complex action sequences," he wrote in an update on Threads. "AMI will have far-ranging applications in many sectors of the economy, some of which overlap with Metas commercial interests, but many of which do not. Pursuing the goal of AMI in an independent entity is a way to maximize its broad impact."

Speculation about LeCun's future at Meta has been mounting in recent months. Earlier this year, the company invested nearly $15 billion into Scale AI and made the 28-year-old CEO, Alexandr Wang, its Chief AI Officer. Meta also recruited Shengjia Zhao, who helped create GPT-4, making him Chief AI Scientist of its newly created Meta Superintelligence Labs unit.

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LeCun, on the other hand, has been openly skeptical of LLMs. "We are not going to get to human-level AI by just scaling LLMs," he said during an appearance on the Big technology podcast earlier this year. And in a recent talk at a conference, he advised aspiring researchers to "absolutely not work on LLMs," according to remarks reported by The Wall Street Journal.

At the same time, Meta has been reshuffling its AI teams. The company cut "several hundred" jobs from its Superintelligence group, including from FAIR, last month. And LeCun has "had difficulty getting resources for his projects at Meta as the company focused more intently on building models to compete with immediate threats from rivals including OpenAI, Alphabet Inc.s Google and Anthropic," Bloomberg reported.

LeCun said he will stay on at Meta until the end of the year. "I am extremely grateful to Mark Zuckerberg, Andrew Bosworth (Boz), Chris Cox, and Mike Schroepfer for their support of FAIR, and for their support of the AMI program over the last few years," he wrote.




European policymakers have proposed sweeping changes to the way the EU regulates the tech industry. In just the last few months, the likes of Meta and Google have questioned strict EU policies relating to privacy and AI expansion, but if the European Commissions new package of proposals are passed, a number of big tech roadblocks will be removed. Or at least lifted up a bit.

Changes to rules around AI, cybersecurity and data will, according to policymakers, generate growth for European businesses, while "promoting Europes highest standards of fundamental rights, data protection, safety and fairness." Among the proposals are amendments to the AI Act that Google has recently expressed concerns about, which would allow AI companies to access shared personal data for training models.

It also wants to simplify paperwork for smaller companies, and to make AI literacy a requirement for member states. AI oversight would also be centralized into the AI Office where general-purpose AI models are being used, a move intended to "reduce governance fragmentation." In addition, strict rules around the use of AI in areas deemed to be high-risk, which were expected to come in next summer, could be delayed until the Commission confirms that "the needed standards and support tools" are available to affected companies.

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The infamous (and admittedly very annoying) cookie banners that are foundational to the EUs General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) will also be rethought under the Commissions proposals. If approved, people would see these banners pop up with less regularity, give their consent with one click, and save their cookie preferences so they presumably could be automatically applied within a browser.

The European Commissions "digital omnibus" now goes to the European Parliament for approval, where it could face serious opposition. While the proposals are likely to be welcomed by the rapidly-growing AI industry, sceptics could argue that watered down privacy and AI legislation is evidence of Europe bowing to pressure from big tech and Donald Trump, who has publicly criticized the EUs digital regulation.

This would represent a marked turnaround from the EUs long-standing reputation as the tech industrys most stubborn adversary. Back in September, it rejected calls from Apple to repeal its Digital Markets Act (DMA), a legal framework that Apple has repeatedly been accused of violating by the EU. In the summer, Meta refused to sign the EUs AI Code of Practice, with its global affairs officer, Joel Kaplan, calling the code an over-reach.
Disney has released the first trailer for its live-action adaptation of "Moana," offering audiences a glimpse of Catherine Laga'aia in the titular role alongside Dwayne Johnson reprising his part as the demigod Maui.

The trailer highlights Laga'aia's debut performance and features her singing the powerful song "I Am Moana," signaling a fresh yet faithful retelling of the beloved ocean adventure.

The film tells the story of Moana, a courageous young woman from the island of Motunui who answers the call of the ocean. For the first time, she voyages beyond the reef with Maui to restore prosperity to her people. Alongside Laga'aia and Johnson, the cast includes John Tui as Moana's father, Chief Tui; Frankie Adams as her strong-willed mother, Sina; and Rena Owen as Gramma Tala, Moana's revered grandmother. This ensemble brings to life the vibrant characters that fans cherish from the original animated hit.

Directed by Emmy and Tony Award winner Thomas Kail, the live-action "Moana" is produced by a team including Dwayne Johnson, Lin-Manuel Miranda, and others who were closely involved in the original film's success. Aulii Cravalho, the original voice of Moana in the animated movies, serves as an executive producer, further linking the new film to its animation roots.

Principal photography for the film took place between July and November of 2024 in Atlanta, Georgia, and Hawaii, under the working title "Canon." The production team includes cinematographer Oscar Faura and visual effects supervisor Bill Westenhofer. There were considerations of using AI-generated effects involving Dwayne Johnson's character, but the idea was abandoned to avoid controversy amid ongoing societal debates over AI in filmmaking.

The trailer showcases the stunning scenery of Motunui, the mystical ocean, and the quirky Kakamora tribe, staying true to the original story's beautiful visuals and spirit. Disney has scheduled the film for release on July 10, 2026, marking the 10th anniversary of the original "Moana" animated film. The movie is expected to be released in IMAX as well, offering audiences an immersive cinematic experience.

This live-action "Moana" maintains the magic and heart that made the original a favorite while introducing new faces and real-life performances to bring the iconic ocean adventure to life on the big screen.
Nintendo revealed the first official images for its upcoming live-action "The Legend of Zelda" movie on November 17, 2025, showcasing the film's lead actors in full costume.

Bo Bragason portrays Princess Zelda, while Benjamin Evan Ainsworth takes on the role of Link. The production stills display both characters in a lush, natural setting with designs that blend classic video game elements with a grounded, cinematic aesthetic.

Zelda appears dressed in elegant blue robes inspired by the "Breath of the Wild" design, creating a look that balances royal regalia with battle-ready practicality. Link wears a darker green tunic with leather accents and rugged gear, drawing influence from "Twilight Princess" while maintaining an adventure-ready appearance. The costume choices reflect a serious yet faithful approach to bringing Hyrule to the screen.

Nintendo director Shigeru Miyamoto confirmed that filming is actively underway for the production. In his official announcement, Miyamoto expressed enthusiasm about seeing both actors embody the franchise's iconic characters on the big screen. The movie is being filmed in New Zealand and represents a collaboration between Nintendo and Sony Pictures, with Nintendo maintaining a financial stake of more than 50 percent in the project.

The film is directed by Wes Ball, known for his work on the "Maze Runner" trilogy and "Kingdom of the Planet of the Apes." Ball has indicated his vision draws inspiration from Studio Ghibli films and director Hayao Miyazaki's work, aiming to create something that feels both serious and whimsical. The screenplay was written by T.S. Nowlin, with Miyamoto and veteran producer Avi Arad overseeing the project.

Bragason, an English actress, previously appeared in the Disney+ series "Renegade Nell" and the British drama "The Jetty." Ainsworth, a sixteen-year-old English actor, voiced Pinocchio opposite Tom Hanks in Disney's 2022 live-action adaptation and starred in Netflix's "The Haunting of Bly Manor." The casting process took considerable time before landing on these two rising talents.

"The Legend of Zelda" movie is scheduled for theatrical release on May 7, 2027. This date places the film approximately one year after "The Super Mario Galaxy Movie" arrives in April 2026, establishing Nintendo's growing presence in the film industry. Production is reportedly on track to meet the scheduled release timeline, marking a significant milestone for video game adaptations as Nintendo continues expanding its cinematic universe beyond gaming platforms.
Kim Kardashian is once again the center of a parenting debate after her 12-year-old daughter, North West, showed off a dermal finger piercing on social media.

The close-up videos, first spotted in September, quickly spread across TikTok and Reddit, where many users questioned why the preteen was allowed to get the uncommon and risky body modification.

A dermal piercing sits flat under the skin and uses a small anchor to hold the jewelry in place.

Because it does not have a traditional entry and exit point, experts say it can be dangerousespecially on the hands, which collect germs and are bumped often.

Several piercing studios in the United States do not perform this type of procedure on anyone under 18.

The criticism grew stronger after a TikTok user shared a video on Nov. 11 calling the piercing "heartbreaking."

According to People, two days later, Kim and North's shared TikTok account replied softly: "it's okay." It was the only direct response the pair gave as more comments poured in.

Some people defended the tween, writing that the piercing did not affect anyone else. Others argued that North should be free to express herself.

But many commenters disagreed, saying the piercing was unsafe for a child.

One person wrote that the risksincluding infection, rejection, and possible nerve damagewere "unnecessarily high." Another argued that a 12-year-old "is not mature enough to care for this piercing responsibly."

Kim Kardashian and North West Respond to Criticism of North's Dermal Piercing: 'It's Okay' https://t.co/idSDVzZYiP  People (@people) November 19, 2025

Expert Warns Against North West's Finger Piercing

Professional piercers also raised concerns. Trist'n Peterson, co-owner of a body art studio in Montana, explained that most shops do not offer finger dermal piercings even for adults.

"The finger has so much daily movement and potential to snag," she said, adding that the jewelry often rejects itself from the skin and can leave scars, DailyMail reported.

Peterson said she would never approve the procedure for a minor.

It is still unknown where North received her piercings or whether Kim or her ex-husband Kanye West gave permission. The family has not addressed those details publicly.

This is not the first time the reality star has faced backlash over her daughter's style. Earlier this year, she was criticized for letting North wear a corset during a trip to Rome.

Kim, who shares four children with West, later admitted on the "Call Her Daddy" podcast that navigating preteen choices is challenging.

"As a mom, you're kind of learning at the same time," she said. Still, she praised North's confidence, noting that the tween often brushes off online comments about her hair or outfits.

Kim ended by asking people to show "a little bit of grace," saying she is doing her best to raise her kids in the public eye.
Academy Award-winning actress Diane Keaton stood by filmmaker Woody Allen until her death at the age of 79. Decades of sexual assault allegations and intense public scrutiny did nothing to deter her loyalty to the director.

According to RadarOnline, a close friend described Keaton's unwavering stance. "Folks told Diane just to leave it alone, don't stick your nose into this ugliness," the friend said. "She took his denials at face value, and she didn't give a damn about any blowback she would get."

RadarOnline reports that Keaton, who is most famously known for her title role in Annie Hall (1977), had a personal and professional relationship with Allen since the 1970s and has appeared in eight of his films. The two broke up in 1972, but their working relationship continued, making her a movie star and an offbeat fashion icon.

"A lot of people around Diane told her Woody was toxic and she shouldn't bail him out, but Diane was loyal to Woody," a friend said. "She didn't billboard it, but she always had his back."

Keaton was brought in to replace Mia Farrow in Manhattan Murder Mystery after Farrow left in the wake of accusations that Allen had molested her then-seven-year-old adopted daughter, Dylan Farrow. Allen's subsequent marriage to Farrow's former partner Soon-Yi Previn did little to quell public outcry against him.

Following Keaton's death on October 11, Allen expressed deep grief over the loss of a longtime confidante. A source told People, "Woody found his friends and allies dropping like flies, especially when the MeToo movement took wings. He told Diane many times she felt like his only true friend in the world. Losing her and the support she always gave him has just devastated him."

Keaton herself publicly supported Allen on social media. She wrote on Twitter, "Woody Allen is my friend and I choose to believe him."

That Keaton has continued to defend Allen, even after the allegations resurfaced in 2016 during the MeToo movement, speaks volumes about Keaton's staunch loyalty and complicated relationship with the director himself.
Patrick Beverley's legal team is disputing the allegations that led to his recent felony assault arrest, arguing that the claims made by his 15-year-old sister are not accurate.

Beverley, 37, was taken into custody on Friday by the Fort Bend County Sheriff's Department in Texas after his sister accused him of choking and punching her. He was later released on a $40,000 bail.

According to a probable cause affidavit obtained by sources, Beverley's sister told police the incident occurred early on Nov. 14, after she returned home from visiting her boyfriend.

She alleged that Beverley "grabbed her by her neck with both hands," lifted her off the ground, and squeezed her neck for 20 to 30 seconds, causing her to feel like she was losing oxygen.

She also claimed that Beverley slammed her body against walls and struck her once in the eye with a closed fist, while allegedly threatening her life.

Beverley's attorney, Letitia Quinones-Hollins, told TMZ that the account in the affidavit was shared during a highly emotional moment and does not reflect the full story.

"Patrick is not a violent man and was not violent that night," she said. "In fact, he was very respectful with the authorities that night and encouraged others to do the same."

Patrick Beverley allegedly choked, punched teenage sister in ugly arrest incident https://t.co/I0GSCMemk0 pic.twitter.com/wWluBMcQJs  New York Post (@nypost) November 18, 2025

Patrick Beverley's Lawyer Calls Him a "Protector" of Family

Quinones-Hollins described Beverley as a "provider" and "protector" for his family, including his sister and mother, People reported. "He has always looked out for their wellbeing and will continue to do so," she added.

The lawyer emphasized that Beverley has no prior criminal record and urged the public to avoid rushing to judgment.

"Please remember this is America, and in our society, Patrick is innocent unless proven otherwise in a court of law," she said.

Following his release, Beverley posted on X, formerly Twitter, asking fans not to believe everything they see online.

Quinones-Hollins noted that Beverley's concern was understandable given the situation.

"When he unexpectedly found her alone in the home with an 18-year-old man in the middle of the night, he was understandably concerned, as any brother would be about his sister," she said.

The Fort Bend County Sheriff's Office confirmed that Beverley was charged with assaulting a family or household member in a way that impedes breathing or circulation.

The case remains under investigation, and no further arrests have been reported. Beverley's lawyer expressed confidence that he would be cleared once all the facts were considered.

"We look forward to the opportunity to address that in court," Quinones-Hollins said.
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Firefighters in Oita, Japan, were battling an out-of-control fire Wednesday morning that has burned through a neighborhood. Japan's Fire and Disaster Management Agency said at least 170 homes have been damaged and a man in his 70s was unaccounted for.
Britains rural economy is brimming with untapped potential despite mounting short-term pressures, according to Gavin Lane, the new president of the Country Land and Business Association (CLA).

Lane, a Norfolk farmer who becomes the CLAs 57th president, said that policy uncertainty, proposed inheritance tax changes and delays to environmental schemes were creating immediate challenges  but insisted the sector remains rich with opportunity.

Setting out his agenda, he said campaigning against the governments inheritance tax reforms and securing long-term certainty for agri-environment schemes would sit at the top of his in-tray.

Long-term family businesses are a force for good, and I believe the rural economy has vast potential, he said, who becomes the president of an organisation which represents more than 28,000 landowners, farmers and rural businesses across England and Wales.

There are massive opportunities in the countryside, including for young people, and if we can unlock the planning system that will make a big difference.

Lane said he intends to champion the positive national impact of land management, highlighting how CLA members deliver some of the best land stewardship in the world and can provide cost-effective solutions on issues ranging from housing supply to flood management. I want to champion that, he added.

Addressing his priority concerns, he said: We are not giving up the fight on inheritance tax changes. The ELM schemes in England need to get back on track and we need to better understand what the governments vision is for the countryside, as it isnt clear or transparent.

He emphasised that stability is critical for rural businesses, adding: It shouldnt be about making ends meet but something that is really quite powerful and ambitious.

Lane, who replaces Victoria Vyvyan as CLA president, will meet Defra Secretary Emma Reynolds on his first day in office and is due to speak at the CLAs Rural Business Conference tomorrow.

Raised on his familys farm near Kings Lynn, Lane entered the industry through a contract farming arrangement with his father at the age of 25.

He now owns and manages two arable farms totalling 1,200 acres, both operating Countryside Stewardship agreements and using regenerative practices.

He is also involved in a family property portfolio and runs a holiday cottage business with his wife, Jane. His wider contributions include chairing the Education Committee of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and becoming a Nuffield Scholar.

Joe Evans has been appointed CLA Deputy President, with Eliza Ecclestone taking on the role of Vice President.
Pressure is intensifying on the government to rethink its planned overhaul of inheritance tax on family farms, with more than 100 organisations urging the prime minister to halt a policy they say will hit working farmers hardest.

In an open letter sent just days before the budget, farming unions, major retailers and businesses across the food supply chain warn that the proposal is unjust and unfair and could force family farms to sell land or essential assets to cover significant and unexpected tax bills.

The organisations, which include the likes of the NFU, Aldi, Asda, Lidl, Morrisons and Arla, argue that the changes would undermine investment and weaken the sectors contribution to the wider economy.

The signatories also point to alternative solutions proposed by independent experts, including amendments from the UK-based research centre CenTax, which say the policy could be reshaped to meet government aims without destabilising farm businesses.

NFU President Tom Bradshaw said anger within the industry is unprecedented. I have never known such an outpouring of anger and frustration from all sectors of the farming industry and wider supply chain to this unjust policy, he said, adding that the Treasury does not understand farming and has been intransigent despite repeated warnings.

He argued the current plan is anti-growth, deterring investment and leaving many families fearing they may have to break up or sell their businesses. With 107 signatories behind the letter, he urged Sir Keir Starmer to act before the budget.

There is still time to do the right thing for British farming and rural businesses, he said. It is not too late to make changes which will raise the money the government needs while safeguarding the future of family farms.

Bradshaw called this a pivotal moment, saying a shift would help restore confidence after months of pressure. He added that the government must back a sector underpinning Britains largest manufacturing industry, food and drink, worth 153 billion to the UK economy and supporting 4.2 million jobs.

Separately, farmers and Labour MPs staged their own last-minute intervention, issuing a fierce warning to ministers over the IHT proposals.

Their move followed a year of discussions between farmers and their constituency MPs, during which long-standing concerns among rural Labour members steadily built.

Those frustrations culminated on Tuesday (18 November), when farmers and a group of Labour backbenchers mounted the first coordinated push to persuade the government to change course.

Anger across the community has been rising. More than 12,000 people have written to MPs, and farmers are preparing a major tractor protest in London ahead of the chancellors budget on 26 November.

Many argue the plan  which caps agricultural and business property relief at 1 million  ignores the reality that family farms often hold high land values but generate modest incomes, with some households relying on tax credits just to get by. Farmers warn the reforms would deter succession, stall investment and hit the next generation hardest.

Fairer Family Farming  a new grassroots coalition  recently said that individuals earning little more than the average UK household would be treated as multimillionaires under Treasury proposals.

The group argued the approach was fundamentally flawed, insisting ministers should raise revenue from those who seek to avoid it rather than jeopardise the future of viable, family-run farms.
The UK pig sector has paid a heartfelt tribute to industry stalwart Robert Beckett, who has been posthumously awarded the prestigious David Black Award  regarded as one of the pig industrys highest honours.

Presented annually by AHDB, the award, presented at the National Pig Awards. recognises individuals whose leadership and commitment have made a lasting contribution to the British pig sector.

Beckett, who died earlier this year at the age of 57, is being acknowledged for more than two decades of influence, integrity and practical leadership.

Beckett joined Yorkwold in 2001 and rose to lead its indoor breed-to-finish enterprise as managing director. Over 24 years, he built a reputation for clear decision-making, strong welfare standards and a collaborative, solutions-focused approach that earned respect across the supply chain.

His influence reached well beyond Yorkwold, serving on the AHDB Pork Sector Council, the Pig Health and Welfare Councils welfare committee and other key groups, where his practical insight and willingness to ask tough questions helped drive welfare improvements and policy progress.

His wife Andrea, speaking on behalf of their children, Ollie and Grace, said the award carries deep meaning for the family. Ollie, Grace and I are delighted and very proud to receive the David Black Award on Bobs behalf, she said, noting the commitment, hard work and support Bob gave to the pig industry.

She added that he worked almost to the end, his passion and drive hardly wavering even though his health was.

She also expressed gratitude to the colleagues who supported him: Thank you to all those who nominated Bob for this award and to everyone he worked alongside throughout the industry. You were not only colleagues you were his friends. He will be missed greatly by us all.

Mark Haighton, AHDB Pork Sector Director, said Beckett exemplified the values behind the David Black Award, highlighting his leadership, integrity and influence.

He noted that Becketts contributions helped steer important conversations within the industry, and that AHDB is proud to recognise the legacy he leaves.

Becketts inclusion in this years honours not only reflects his career achievements but also serves as a reminder of the role that principled, practical leadership plays in strengthening the future of the British pig sector.
Britains appetite for free-range eggs is now outstripping supply, creating major opportunities for farm businesses as the market accelerates faster than producers can keep up.

Driven by strong consumer demand for trusted, high-welfare production  supported by retailer commitments to cage-free supply and increased use in foodservice  the free-range market is forecast to grow by more than 10% by 2030.

But with producers grappling with recent disease pressures, high feed costs and flock reductions across the sector, supply has tightened sharply.

According to Stonegate, one of the UKs largest egg businesses, free-range eggs have already expanded their retail share from 70% to 83.4% in the past five years.

Matthew Falk, the companys head of category and commercial brands, said momentum has been extraordinary. Since 2022, the value of the free-range egg market has risen by more than 50%, and demand is now surpassing the peaks seen during the pandemic, he explained.

Stonegate estimates the UK will require tens of millions more free-range eggs every year to meet projected growth and is urging more farmers to join its producer network to ensure future supply.

Jim Turner, Stonegates head of new producer recruitment, said the company offers producers secure market access and consistent returns, backed by long-term retail partnerships and its 5 million Egg Innovation Centre.

He said the structure ensures every egg has a guaranteed home, giving farmers confidence in a stable route to market.

Turner added that free-range egg production integrates naturally alongside many existing farm enterprises. Strong margins and quicker-than-expected payback periods, he said, make it attractive both for established poultry producers and for farms exploring diversification.

Were particularly keen to hear from arable, beef, sheep and dairy farmers looking to enhance their farm businesses, he said.

Recognising that diversification can feel daunting, Turner stressed that Stonegate supports producers from the outset. The company provides full lifecycle assistance, including greenfield site planning, pullet finance, day-to-day operational guidance and welfare certification.

Stonegate was also the first UK egg packer to link producer prices to the ADAS cost-of-production model, ensuring payments reflect actual input costs. Producers benefit additionally from avian influenza insurance, grading data and ongoing technical support from Stonegates national team.

Our approach is transparent and partnership-driven, said Turner. We invest in our farmers because their success underpins the long-term health of the category.
China willing to expand trade with Mongolia -- Chinese premier

Xinhua) 13:09, November 19, 2025

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar in Moscow, Russia, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

MOSCOW, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to further expand trade volume with Mongolia and explore cooperation in emerging fields such as green energy and digital economy, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Tuesday when meeting with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar.

Describing China and Mongolia as close neighbors connected by mountains and rivers, Li said maintaining a long-term, stable, and friendly cooperative relationship serves the fundamental interests of the peoples of both countries.

The meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh in Beijing in September charted the course for advancing bilateral ties, he added.

Li said China has always regarded Mongolia as an important priority in its neighborhood diplomacy, and is willing to work with Mongolia to take the building of a China-Mongolia community with a shared future as the guiding principle for developing bilateral relations.

China is ready to further strengthen strategic communication with Mongolia, respect and accommodate each other's core interests and major concerns, expand pragmatic cooperation, and promote the continuous growth of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, the Chinese premier said.

Noting that China and Mongolia have strong economic complementarity, Li said China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies and enhance cooperation in traditional fields such as mineral and energy resources, infrastructure, and connectivity to forge more drivers for interest convergence and cooperation.

He said that China supports closer exchanges between neighboring Chinese provinces and regions and Mongolia, tapping into the potential for cooperation, and jointly promoting international cooperation in the Altai sub-region.

Both sides should promote exchanges among political parties, academic circle, media and youth, continuously deepen mutual understanding, and enhance mutual trust and friendship, Li said, adding that China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with Mongolia on regional affairs and jointly safeguard peace and stability for both countries and the region.

Zandanshatar, for his part, extended his congratulations on the successful fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, during which recommendations for the formulation of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for economic and social Development were reviewed and approved.

China, he noted, has always adhered to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in neighborhood diplomacy.

The relations between Mongolia and China have long been friendly, which Mongolia highly appreciates, he added.

Maintaining friendly cooperation with China is a primary guideline in Mongolia's foreign policy, Zandanshatar said.

He also said that Mongolia firmly adheres to the one-China policy, adding that Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Xizang are inalienable parts of China's territory.

The Mongolian side expresses gratitude to the Chinese side for providing valuable assistance to its economic and social development over a long period of time, he said.

He also expressed Mongolia's readiness to work together with the Chinese side to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, enhance the alignment of development strategies, expand mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as connectivity, infrastructure construction, mining and green energy, and achieve common development.

Mongolia is also willing to enhance communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and make greater contributions to promoting regional peace, development and prosperity, he added.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar in Moscow, Russia, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Wu Chengliang)
Northern Ireland farmers have taken their fight to Westminster, warning MPs that proposed inheritance tax reforms would devastate family farms and threaten the future of the regions agricultural sector.

A delegation from the Ulster Farmers Union (UFU) travelled to London to deliver what they described as a stark and urgent message: the changes are, they said, not fair, not workable, and not grounded in a proper understanding of Northern Irelands farming structure.

The farmers were addressing backbench Labour MPs at an event titled Securing the Future of Family Farming in Northern Ireland, hosted by Labour MP Adam Jogee.

They also heard contributions from Northern Ireland Affairs Committee chair Tonia Antoniazzi and Conservative Shadow Farming Minister Robbie Moore, underscoring the cross-party political attention attracted by the issue.

At the heart of the dispute are proposed inheritance tax (IHT) reforms that would significantly reduce the relief available for agricultural assets, leaving any value above a new threshold exposed to tax.

Farmers argue the changes, which roll out from April 2026, would force families to sell land or livestock simply to meet the liability  a scenario they say would dismantle farms built over generations.

The UFU delegation followed the event with further meetings, holding discussions with MPs and peers from all parties, delivering a signed letter to the Treasury and taking part in a rally opposing what they describe as damaging and unrealistic tax plans.

UFU president William Irvine said members felt they had no choice but to put their case directly to the politicians shaping the budget.

Our farmers have been forced to travel from Northern Ireland to Westminster to deliver their personal stories and fears directly to the policymakers responsible for budget decisions, as the chancellor is refusing to listen, he said.

He added that UFU members had warned MPs that the proposed changes would lead to the ruin of livelihoods and farms which have taken generations to build.

During the meetings, UFU representatives stressed that Northern Irelands farming model makes the region particularly vulnerable. Most farms are owner-occupied, with high land values and assets tied up in fields, machinery and livestock rather than cash reserves.

Irvine said these are ordinary working farms, often held by a single individual, describing local agriculture as asset-rich but cash-poor. He warned that many families would simply be unable to raise the liquidity required in a short timeframe, calling the plans not only unworkable but profoundly unfair  its a tax on tragedy.

He urged MPs across the political spectrum to intervene. We will continue to plead with MPs to stand with our families  to listen to their lived experience and work with us to secure a fair and workable approach. This is peoples lives, their homes, their land and the decisions made here will ripple through generations.

The UFU said it will maintain pressure in the weeks ahead, continuing to lobby the Treasury and key committees as budget preparations continue.

MPs who attended the events indicated they would raise the issue directly with ministers, while the union awaits a formal response from the government.
On International Mens Day 2025, we celebrate the heroes who defended our nation with unwavering courage and sacrificed their lives for its people. We take a look at the stories of Indian heroes whose bravery has inspired Bollywood. From the battlefields of Kargil to the nuclear testing grounds of Pokhran, these stories have been brought to life by our talented Bollywood heroes.

Uri: The Surgical Strike

Uri: The Surgical Strike stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead, who embodied a courageous character based on Colonel Kapil Yadav. He successfully brought pride and resilience to life on screen. Vicky's performance not only showcased the tactical brilliance of the Indian Army but also honoured the real troops who executed the operation with absolute precision. Inspired by the Indian Army's 2016 surgical strikes across the Line of Control,stars Vicky Kaushal in the lead, who embodied a courageous character based on Colonel Kapil Yadav. He successfully brought pride and resilience to life on screen. Vicky's performance not only showcased the tactical brilliance of the Indian Army but also honoured the real troops who executed the operation with absolute precision.

Lakshya

Though Lakshya is a fictional coming-of-age story, it draws heavily from the spirit of the Kargil war. Hrithik Roshans portrayal of an aimless young man transformed by service left a profound impact and resonated deeply with the audience.

Border

The Battle of Longewala during the 1971 Indo-Pak War inspired the film Border, which Sunny Deol headlined. His performance as a determined soldier added depth to the iconic war story. The film captured how service to the nation can reshape a persons identity and give them a sense of meaning and purpose.

Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran

Parmanu: The Story of Pokhran portrays an important chapter of India's history. It revolves around India's nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998, with John Abraham playing the lead. His role highlighted Indias scientific and military resilience. portrays an important chapter of India's history. It revolves around India's nuclear tests at Pokhran in 1998, with John Abraham playing the lead. His role highlighted Indias scientific and military resilience.

Shershaah

Shershaah is based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, one of the most celebrated heroes of the Kargil War. Sidharth Malhotra and Kiara Advani'sis based on the life of Captain Vikram Batra, one of the most celebrated heroes of the Kargil War.

Sky Force
Jennifer Aniston and her partner, Jim Curtis, have officially made their first official public appearance as a couple, marking a significant milestone in their relationship. They attended a prestigious gala at the Four Seasons Hotel in Los Angeles, where they were seen coordinating their outfits in black. Jennifer initially walked the red carpet alone before Jim joined her inside the event.

Images shared online show the couple happily posing for photographs, making their relationship red-carpet official. Fan accounts have also shared pictures of Jim seated beside Jennifer during the ceremony, offering his support as she delivered her speech.





Jennifers decision to reveal her relationship with Jim to the public follows closely after she discussed their connection in an interview with ELLE, where she described him as "extraordinary." Speaking about his work, she said, Hypnotism is one of the many things that he does. He's very special, very normal, and very kind, and wants to help people heal, move through their trauma and stagnation into clarity. It's a beautiful thing to commit your life to.

Romance rumours between Jennifer and Jim initially started during the Fourth of July weekend, when they were seen vacationing together in Mallorca. In the next few months, they were seen attending various dinner outings with friends, and this event marks their first formal public appearance.

Their red-carpet moment comes shortly after Jennifer made her relationship with Jim Instagram official, sharing a cozy birthday post with the caption, Happy birthday my love... Cherished.

This marks Jennifer Aniston's first public relationship since her divorce from Justin Theroux. She was previously married to Brad Pitt . On the work front, Jennifer was last seen in the 2023 action comedy, Murder Mystery 2 which starred Adam Sandler in the lead role with her, alongside Mark Strong, Melanie Laurent, and Jodie Turner-Smith.



Also Read: Jennifer Aniston Pays Tribute To Matthew Perry on First Death Anniversary






Aishwarya Rai Bachchan returned to Mumbai on Tuesday after attending the 100th birth anniversary celebration of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh. She was seen in a yellow embellished anarkali as she took part in the centenary programmes, shared the stage with several dignitaries and delivered a warm speech at the gathering, which was also attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Sachin Tendulkar.





Her photos from the airport soon after her return are now going viral, with fans circulating the latest glimpses across social media. Scroll down for images.
Lucy Liu is opening up about the career stagnation she faced despite decades of acclaimed work. In a conversation with The Hollywood Reporter, the 56-year-old actor said the strange lull that followed her blockbuster phase wasnt a mystery to her, it was Hollywoods narrow view of marketability for actors of colour.





She recalled a period when, even after Kill Bill, Charlies Angels, and her award-winning work on Ally McBeal, the offers that came her way felt shockingly regressive. I remember thinking, Why isnt there more happening? she said. How am I getting roles that are less than what I started with? It felt like a sign of disrespect, and I didnt want to accept that.





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lucy Liu (@lucyliu)



She spoke candidly about how race influenced the opportunities she was denied. I havent changed my face; theres only so much I can do, she said. I cant turn myself into someone who looks Caucasian. If I could, I wouldve had so many more opportunities.





Liu also pushed back against long-standing accusations that her role in Kill Bill reinforced the Dragon Lady stereotype. She noted that powerful female characters played by non-Asian actors were never labelled the same way. If Im a doctor, Im automatically the super-smart, nerdy Asian woman. They want to label me, and I cant get away from it, she said.



Now, more than 30 years into her career, Liu is finally leading a dramatic feature with Rosemead, a film that debuted at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival and has gone on to win multiple awards. Speaking to People, she shared how surprising it was to realise that this was her first major dramatic lead. Its always been inside me, she said of the performance. I just never had the chance to tap into it. To think this is my first leading role of this kind after 30 yearsits kind of crazy.





View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lucy Liu (@lucyliu)





In Rosemead, directed by Eric Lin, Liu plays Irene, a Chinese immigrant confronting her sons schizophrenia diagnosis. She described the role as deeply challengingexactly the kind of character she has long waited to play.



Liu also revisited how the industry sidelined her after her early success, echoing what she told People. I didnt want to do roles where I felt I wasnt being taken seriously. I didnt want to acquiesce to that, she said.





Her acclaimed performance in Kill Bill will also return to theatres this December with the release of Kill Bill: The Whole Bloody Affair, which combines both volumes as Quentin Tarantino originally intended.





Up next, Liu will appear in The Devil Wears Prada 2, slated for release on May 1, 2026. Rosemead arrives in theatres on December 5, marking a milestone in a career that has long deserved roles as layered as the woman behind them



Also Read:EXCLUSIVE: Lucy Liu & Kiernan Shipka On Bringing The Boss Vibes in Red One
VAL-D'OR, Quebec, Nov. 18, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Cartier Resources Inc. (?Cartier? or the ?Company?) (TSXV: ECR; FSE: 6CA) is pleased to announce that metallurgical testwork program is underway on samples of the Main Sector from its Cadillac Project, located in Val-d'Or (Abitibi, Quebec). This work will be supervised by Soutex, a firm specializing in mineral processing and metallurgy, located in Quebec City (Quebec).

Methodology of the Metallurgical Testwork Program

A total of 388.7 kg of representative NZ-size half-drill core samples, which 92% of the samples come from holes drilled by Cartier between 2017 and 2023, has been collected from three gold deposits (Chimo, East Chimo and West Nordeau) of the Main Sector (Figure 1) and shipped to ALS Canada Ltd - Metallurgy Services in Kamloops, British Columbia; the details and process of which are provided below:

Chimo Deposit: 126.1 kg (composites 1 & 2).

East Chimo Deposit: 132.6 kg (composites 3 & 4).

West Nordeau Deposit: 130.0 kg (composites 5 & 6).





Figure 1: Geographic Location of the Composites





The preparation and testing process of the composites of the three deposits will be subject to cyanidation tests at three different grind sizes. After these tests, gravimetric concentration separation followed by a cyanide destruction tests of the gravity tails will be done at the grind size showing the best results. In addition to the metallurgical program, comminution test, as well as chemical and mineralogical characterization, will also be performed to define the grindability of the mineralized material and predict his behaviour in the process (Figure 2).

Figure 2: Material Preparation and Testing Flowchart of the Composites





Key Objectives of the Program

Defining expected gold recovery rates and improving upon historical results from the Chimo deposit.

and improving from the Chimo deposit. Establishing first-time metallurgical recovery data for the East Chimo and West Nordeau satellite deposits, where no previous data exists.

for the East Chimo and West Nordeau satellite deposits, where no previous data exists. Supporting the development of an integrated process flowsheet -

- Providing critical data for future trade-off studies to guide project development.





Results from the metallurgical testwork program are expected in Q1 2026 (Figure 3).

Figure 3: Planned Test Schedule





Milestones of 2025-2027 Exploration Program

100,000 m Drilling Program (Q3 2025 to Q2 2027)

The ambitious 600-hole drilling program will both expand known gold zones and test new shallow surface high-potential targets. The objective is to unlock the camp-scale, high-grade gold potential along the 15 km Cadillac Fault Zone. It is important to note that Cartier's recent consolidation of this large land holding offers the unique opportunity in over 90 years for unrestricted exploration.

Environmental Baseline Studies & Economic Evaluation of Chimo mine tailings (Q3 2025 to Q3 2026)

The baseline studies will be divided into two distinct parts which include 1) environmental baseline desktop study and 2) preliminary environmental geochemical characterization. The initial baseline studies will provide a comprehensive understanding of the current environmental conditions and implement operations that minimize environmental impact while optimizing the economic potential of the project. These studies will be supplemented by an initial assessment of the economic potential of the past-producing Chimo mine tailings to determine whether a quantity of gold can be extracted economically.

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical content of this press release has been prepared, reviewed and approved by Mr. Ronan Deroff, P.Geo., M.Sc., Vice President Exploration, who is a ?Qualified Person? as defined by National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects (?NI 43-101?).

About Soutex

Soutex is a consulting firm in mineral processing and metallurgy that offers specialized services, from the initial stages of development on paper to the daily operations of the processing plant. Their designs stem from their solid experience in providing plant operations support. This support is based on their knowledge of fundamental ore processing principles and their in-plant experience. Founded in 2000 and having offices in Canada (Quebec and Longueuil) and Germany (Munich), Soutex comprises more than 40 metallurgists, process engineers, and technicians, making it one of the largest groupings of specialists in the field in Canada. Services have been offered to clients located across Canada and abroad (West Africa, United States, Finland, New Caledonia, Suriname, and Madagascar).

About Cadillac Project

The Cadillac Project, covering 14,000 hectares along a 15-kilometre stretch of the Cadillac Fault, is one of the largest consolidated land packages in the Val-d'Or mining camp. Cartier's flagship asset integrates the historic Chimo Mine and East Cadillac projects, creating a dominant position in a world class gold mining district. With excellent road access, year-round infrastructure and nearby milling capacity, the project is ideally positioned for rapid advancement and value creation.

Using a gold price of US$1,750/oz, a Preliminary Economic Assessment demonstrated the economic viability of a 2-km segment, compared to the 15 km that will be the subject of the 100,000 m drilling program, with an average annual gold production of 116,900 oz over a 9.7-year mine life. Indicated resources are estimated at 720,000 ounces (7.1 million tonnes at 3.1 g/t Au) and inferred resources at 1,633,000 ounces (18.5 million tonnes at 2.8 g/t Au). Please see the NI 43-101 ?Technical Report and Preliminary Economic Assessment for Chimo Mine and West Nordeau Gold Deposits, Chimo Mine and East Cadillac Properties, Quebec, Canada, Marc R. Beauvais, P.Eng., of InnovExplo Inc., Mr. Florent Baril of Bumigeme and Mr. Eric Sellars, P.Eng. of Responsible Mining Solutions? effective May 29, 2023.

About Cartier Resources Inc.

Cartier Resources Inc., founded in 2006 and headquartered in Val-d'Or (Quebec) is a gold exploration company focused on building shareholder value through discovery and development in one of Canada's most prolific mining camps. The Company combines strong technical expertise, a track record of successful exploration, and a fully funded program to advance its flagship Cadillac Project. Cartier's strategy is clear: unlock the full potential of one of the largest undeveloped gold landholdings in Quebec.

For further information, contact:

Philippe Cloutier, P. Geo.

President and CEO

Telephone: 819-856-0512

philippe.cloutier@ressourcescartier.com

www.ressourcescartier.com

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

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TORONTO, ON / ACCESS Newswire / November 18, 2025 / Forward Water Technologies Corp. ("FWTC" or the "Company") (TSXV:FWTC) is pleased to announce that the Company has signed a contract for a technology evaluation project with a globally positioned food and beverage product manufacturer. The project will assess of the effectiveness of FWTC's treatment technology for concentrating liquid food and beverage streams to create superior quality concentrates.

Enlisting FWTC as a potential technology supplier, the client and FWTC will collaborate to demonstrate how FWTC's process can produce the best possible product concentrates. The FWTC process allows for the cold concentration of feed streams which both increases the solids content and simultaneously preserves delicate flavors and aromas as heat is not required to carry out the concentration process.

C. Howie Honeyman, CEO of FWTC says, "superior concentrates are known to be created using forward osmosis. What FWTC brings to bear by using its proprietary technology is the potential for a highly economical method for creating these products. Thus, not only are the concentrates superior, they are also produced with lower costs, using less energy, and without any waste streams compared to conventional concentration methods."

About Forward Water Technologies Corp.

Forward Water Technologies Corp. is a publicly traded Canadian company dedicated to saving the earth's water supply using its patented Forward Osmosis technology. The Company was founded by GreenCentre Canada, a leading technology innovation centre supported by the government of Canada. The Company's technology allows for the reduction of challenging waste streams simultaneously returning fresh water for re-use or surface release. The Company's mandate is to focus on the large-scale implementation of its technology in multiple sectors, including industrial wastewater, oil and gas, mining, agriculture and ultimately municipal water supply and re-use market sectors. In addition, the Company has initiated early-stage R&D for the treatment of food and beverage process streams.

For more information, please visit www.forwardwater.com.

For more information or interview requests, please contact:

C. Howie Honeyman - Chief Executive Officer howie.honeyman@forwardwater.com

1-519-333-5888

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Caution Concerning Forward Looking Information

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Any statements that are contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact may be deemed to be forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are often identified by terms such as "may", "should", "anticipate", "will", "estimates", "believes", "intends" "expects" and similar expressions which are intended to identify forward-looking statements. FWTC cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain, and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, assumptions and expectations, many of which are beyond the control of FWTC, including those described in FWTC's disclosure documents available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The reader is cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of any forward-looking statements may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of FWTC. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. Such information, although considered reasonable by management at the time of preparation, may prove to be incorrect and actual results may differ materially from those anticipated. Forward-looking statements contained in this press release are expressly qualified by this cautionary statement.

The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date of this press release, and FWTC does not undertake to update publicly or to revise any of the included forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as expressly required by securities law.

This press release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy any securities in any jurisdiction.

SOURCE: Forward Water Technologies Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/utilities/forward-water-technologies-corp.-announces-food-and-beverage-concentration-evaluation-con-1103870
Premature babies' skin is twice as thin as that of a full-term baby and highly sensitive, which can make essential moments of skin-to-skin contact and bonding more challenging [2] .

. Almost two-thirds (63%) of parents felt unsure about how to conduct moments of touch and comfort with their little one when they first arrived on a neonatal unit [1] .

. Pampers Preemie Protection nappies help to enable these moments of care between parents and their newborns, as they are specially designed to be extra gentle on even the most fragile of skin whilst also having a customisable fit to accommodate for medical lines and leads.

This World Prematurity Day, Pampers is continuing to partner with first-time mum, broadcaster, author and world champion dancer, Oti Mabuse, whose daughter was born at 28 weeks, to help raise awareness of Pampers Preemie Protection nappies.

LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Touch is crucial to all babies' development, but with skin twice as thin as that of a full-term baby, premature babies' skin can often be very fragile[2]. Despite this vulnerability, skin-to-skin contact is crucial for their development, as it significantly boosts oxytocin[3] levels, an important hormone for familial bonding.

However, almost two-thirds (63%) of parents surveyed said they felt unsure about how to conduct these moments of touch and comfort with their little one when they first arrived on a neonatal unit, with many also feeling unprepared (81%) and nervous (72%)[1].

Pampers Preemie Protection nappies have been developed with neonatal nurses and parents to be extra gentle on even the most fragile of skin. Designed to fit around medical lines and leads, the nappies aim to make changing easier and support up to 6 hours of leakage protection to help keep babies' delicate skin protected. These nappies help to enable more of these essential moments of connection and bonding, with 94% of parents confirming that a nappy designed specifically for premature babies made it easier for them to provide care with confidence[1].

Since 2017, Pampers has donated more than three million nappies to UK hospitals, pharmacies and parents, and continues to support Bliss, the UK's leading charity for babies born premature and sick, helping families with essential support and resources during their time of need. To make Pampers Preemie Protection nappies even more accessible for parents and carers of premature babies, Pampers has partnered with Tesco Pharmacy to offer the nappies for free in over 350 of their pharmacies across England, Scotland and Wales during pharmacy opening hours.

What's more, parents and guardians across the UK can show their support by purchasing a pack of Pampers nappies or nappy pants in Tesco between 27th October and 9th December 2025. For every pack purchased, Pampers will donate a Pampers Preemie Protection nappy in the UK (T&Cs apply).

This World Prematurity Day, Pampers is partnering for a second year with first-time mum, broadcaster, author and world champion dancer, Oti Mabuse, whose daughter was born at 28 weeks, to continue to raise of awareness of her prematurity experience and Pampers Preemie Protection nappies.

Oti says, "I am so proud to be partnering with Pampers again this year, having had first-hand experience of using the Pampers Preemie Protection nappies during the eight weeks that my daughter spent on a neonatal unit. These nappies allowed my husband and I to have special bonding moments whilst changing her, safe in the knowledge that that they were helping to keep her delicate skin protected. I look back at those memories so fondly, as I feel it helped establish the strong bond we have today."

For more information, please visit https://pampersforpreemies.pampers.co.uk/ or www.bliss.org.uk. To find your nearest Tesco Pharmacy, visit tesco.com/pharmacy.

www.facebook.com/PampersUKIre

Instagram:@PampersUK_IRE

Twitter:@Pampers_UK

TikTok: @Pampers_Babies

Imagery and Video in the following link:

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PRESS CONTACTS:

tam.perestrelo@pgone.co.uk

About Pampers

At Pampers, we believe in the power of working together - with parents, experts and our valued partners - to make babies' world better, today and in the future. That's why, for more than 50 years, parents have trusted Pampers to care for babies' happy, healthy development. Pampers is a part of The Procter & Gamble Company (NYSE:PG) and is the #1-selling nappy worldwide. Every day, more than 25 million babies in 100 countries around the world wear Pampers. Pampers offers a complete range of nappies, wipes and training pants designed to provide protection and comfort for every stage of baby's development. Visit www.pampers.co.uk to learn more about Pampers products, our latest innovations and for a chance to win rewards.

Pampers, together we make babies' world better.

ABOUT PROCTER & GAMBLE

P&G serves consumers around the world with one of the strongest portfolios of trusted, quality, leadership brands, including Always, Ambi Pur, Ariel, Bold, Braun, Fairy, Febreze, Gillette, Head & Shoulders, Herbal Essences, Lenor, Olay, Oral-B, Pampers, Pantene, SevenSeas, Tampax, Venus and Vicks. Headquartered in the US, we are proud that P&G was founded by an Englishman and an Irishman in 1837 and our heritage lives on through the work of those in our Research & Development Centres, Manufacturing Plants and Business sites across the UK & Ireland. To learn more about P&G UK and Ireland, our brands and citizenship programmes please visit our website (pg.co.uk) and follow us on our social channels (Instagram @pgukandireland, LinkedIn Procter & Gamble UK & Ireland).

About Bliss

Bliss exists to give every baby born premature or sick in the UK the best chance of survival and quality of life. We champion their right to receive the best care by supporting families and professionals, campaigning for change, enabling life-changing research. Bliss was founded in 1979 by a group of concerned parents who discovered that no hospital had all the equipment nor the trained staff it needed to safely care for premature and sick babies. Determined to do something, these volunteers formed a charity to give vulnerable babies the care they deserve. Nearly 50 years later, Bliss has grown into the leading UK charity for the 90,000 babies born needing neonatal care every year. Follow @BlissCharity or visit bliss.org.uk for expert information and support.

Registered charity no. 1002973 Scottish registered charity SC040878

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[1]Pampers Prematurity Research October 2025

[2] Visscher M, Narendran V. The Ontogeny of Skin. Adv Wound Care (New Rochelle). 2014 Apr 1;3(4):291-303.

[3]Vittner, D et al. Parent Engagement Correlates with Parent and Preterm Infant Oxytocin Release during Skin-to-Skin Contact. Advances in Neonatal Care. 2019 19 (1): 73-79

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Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 18, 2025) - GK Resources Ltd. (TSXV: NIKL.H) ("GK" or the "Company") and Syntholene Energy Corp. ("Syntholene") (together, the "Parties") are pleased to announce, in connection with the previously announced reverse takeover transaction between the Parties (the "Transaction"):

the completion of the second and final tranche (the "Second Tranche") of a brokered private placement of subscription receipts (the "Offering") of FinCo (as defined below); and

GK's entry into the amalgamation agreement dated November 18, 2025 (the "Amalgamation Agreement") with a special purpose financing vehicle of Syntholene ("FinCo") and a wholly owned subsidiary of GK ("SubCo").

The Company received conditional acceptance from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") for the Transaction on October 28, 2025. The Parties are working diligently to satisfy all remaining conditions to complete the Transaction, including the preparation of the Company's filing statement in respect of the Transaction and other final listing materials required by the Exchange.

Please refer to the Company's news releases dated May 6, 2025, May 16, 2025, July 9, 2025 and September 18, 2025 for additional information on the Transaction.

Under the Second Tranche, FinCo issued 27,807,798 subscription receipts ("Subscription Receipts") at a price of C$0.075 per Subscription Receipt for gross proceeds of C$2,085,585, for an aggregate of 46,518,522 Subscription Receipts for aggregate gross proceeds of C$3,488,889 under the Offering. An additional 759,430 broker warrants of FinCo (each a "FinCo Broker Warrant") were issued to a syndicate of agents led by Canaccord Genuity Corp., as lead agent, on behalf of Haywood Securities Inc. and Ventum Financial Corp. (collectively, the "Agents") in connection with the first tranche of the Offering (the "First Tranche"); no FinCo Broker Warrants were issued under the Second Tranche.

The net proceeds of the Offering will be used to advance Syntholene's engineering and development programs, including progress towards construction of its effects-test facility in Iceland, and for general working capital purposes.

FinCo completed the Offering pursuant to an agency agreement dated September 18, 2025 (the "Agency Agreement") between GK, Syntholene, FinCo and the Agents. In connection with the closing of the Transaction, each Subscription Receipt will be automatically converted, without payment of additional consideration or further action by the holder thereof, into one common share of FinCo (a "FinCo Share") upon satisfaction or waiver of the escrow release conditions (the "Escrow Release Conditions") and other terms set out in the subscription receipt agreement dated September 18, 2025 (the "Subscription Receipt Agreement") between GK, Syntholene, FinCo, Odyssey Trust Company ("Odyssey") and the Lead Agent. Immediately following conversion of the Subscription Receipts into FinCo Shares, the FinCo Shares and FinCo Broker Warrants will be exchanged for pre-Consolidation (as defined below) common shares or warrants, as applicable, of GK on a one-for-one basis pursuant to a three-cornered amalgamation among GK, GK SubCo and FinCo on the terms and conditions of the Amalgamation Agreement.

Following completion of the Transaction and amalgamation, GK is expected to change its name to "Syntholene Energy Corp." (the "Resulting Issuer") and the common shares of the Resulting Issuer will be consolidated on the basis of five pre-consolidation common shares for one post-consolidation common share (the "Consolidation"), resulting in a deemed value of C$0.375 for each post-Consolidation common share (a "Resulting Issuer Share").

The gross proceeds of the Offering, net of the Agents' expenses and 50% of the Agents' commission in respect of the First Tranche and fees, are being held in escrow (the "Escrowed Funds") pursuant to the terms of the Subscription Receipt Agreement. Upon satisfaction or waiver of the Escrow Release Conditions on or before December 12, 2025 (the "Escrow Release Deadline"), the Escrowed Funds together with any interest earned thereon will be released to the Resulting Issuer (and to the Agents in respect of the remaining Agents' commission and fees). If the Escrow Release Conditions are not satisfied or waived on or before the Escrow Release Deadline, or if the Transaction is terminated, the Subscription Receipts will be cancelled without any further action and the Escrowed Funds and any interest earned thereon will be returned to subscribers on a pro rata basis, with any shortage of funds being paid by GK and Syntholene. Pursuant to the Agency Agreement, the Agents are entitled to receive (i) a corporate finance fee of C$31,250 which will be paid by the issuance of 83,333 Resulting Issuer Shares at a deemed price of C$0.375 per share and (ii) the remaining balance of cash commission of C$28,478 for the First Tranche. Each post-Consolidation Resulting Issuer broker warrant issued in exchange for the FinCo Broker Warrants (each, a "Broker Warrant") entitles the holder to acquire one Resulting Issuer Share at an exercise price of C$0.375 until the date that is 24 months following the date of the completion of the Transaction. The Resulting Issuer Shares and Broker Warrants issued pursuant to the Amalgamation in exchange for the FinCo Shares and FinCo Broker Warrants will not be subject to a statutory hold period.

Copies of the Agency Agreement and the Subscription Receipt Agreement are available, and a copy of the Amalgamation Agreement will be filed, on GK's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor will there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

About Syntholene Energy Corp.

Syntholene is actively commercializing a new production pathway for low-cost clean fuel synthesis. The target output is ultrapure synthetic jet fuel, produced at low-cost for the first time. Syntholene's mission is to deliver the world's first truly high-performance, low-cost, and carbon-neutral synthetic fuel at industrial scale.

Syntholene's power-to-liquid strategy harnesses thermal energy to power proprietary processes for hydrogen production and fuel synthesis. Syntholene has secured a 20MW energy agreement to support Syntholene's upcoming demonstration facility and commercial scaleup.

Founded by experienced operators across advanced energy infrastructure, nuclear technology, low-emissions steel refining, process engineering, and capital markets, Syntholene's mission is to be the first team to deliver a truly scalable modular production platform for cost-competitive synthetic fuel, and to accelerate commercialization of carbon-neutral fuels across global markets.

About GK Resources Ltd.

GK Resources Ltd. is a mineral property exploration company that completed its initial public offering on March 21, 2019. On March 25, 2019, the shares of GK began trading on the TSX Venture Exchange under the stock symbol NIKL.

Contact Information: For more information and to sign-up to the mailing list, please contact:

Certain information set forth in this news release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation and applicable United States securities laws (referred to herein as forward-looking statements). Except for statements of historical fact, certain information contained herein constitutes forward-looking statements which includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to: the closing of the Transaction, including receipt of all necessary approvals and the satisfaction of all conditions, and the timing thereof; the satisfaction or waiver of the Escrow Release Conditions by the Escrow Release Deadline; and the amount of proceeds therefrom; and the intended use of the net proceeds of the Offering.

Forward-looking statements are often identified by the use of words such as "may", "will", "could", "would", "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "intend", "potential", "estimate", "budget", "scheduled", "plans", "planned", "forecasts", "goals" and similar expressions. Forward-looking statements are based on a number of factors and assumptions made by management and considered reasonable at the time such information is provided. Assumptions and factors include: the successful completion of the Transaction and the Amalgamation, the satisfaction or waiver of the Escrow Release Conditions by the Escrow Release Deadline, integration of GK and Syntholene, and realization of benefits therefrom; the Company's ability to carry out the business plan of the Resulting Issuer, including but not limited to an effects-test and commercial scaleup targeting deployment in Q4 2025; use of net proceeds of the Offering and the Resulting Issuer's ability to continue raising necessary capital to finance operations. Forward-looking statements necessarily involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties, which may cause actual performance and financial results in future periods to differ materially from any projections of future performance or result expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to: risks related to the Transaction, including, but not limited to, the ability to obtain necessary approvals in respect of the Transaction and to consummate the Transaction; the ability to satisfy or waive the Escrow Release Conditions by the Escrow Release Deadline; integration risks; and general business, economic and competitive uncertainties. Although GK and Syntholene have attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ materially from those described in the forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause actions, events or results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended.

There can be no assurance that forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Neither GK nor Syntholene undertakes any obligation to update forward-looking statements if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change except as required by applicable securities laws. The forward-looking statements contained herein are presented for the purposes of assisting investors in understanding GK's, Syntholene's and the Resulting Issuer's plans, objectives and goals, including with respect to the Transaction, and may not be appropriate for other purposes. Forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance, and the reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Not for distribution to United States Newswire Services or for dissemination in the United States

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275108

SOURCE: GK Resources Ltd.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 18, 2025) - Minnova Corp. (TSXV: MCI) ("Minnova" or the "Company") announces that, further to its press release of November 5, 2025, it has filed an amended and restated offering document dated November 18, 2025, (amending and restating the offering document (the "Offering Document") dated November 5, 2025) (the "Amended and Restated Offering Document") which can be accessed under the Company's issuer profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.minnovacorp.ca. Prospective investors should read the Amended and Restated Offering Document before making an investment decision. The Amended and Restated Offering Document amends the Offering Document to reflect the size of the Marketed Offering (as defined below) to be completed pursuant to the listed issuer financing exemption under Part 5A of NI 45-106, as amended by Coordinated Blanket Order 45-935 - Exemptions from Certain Conditions of the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption (the "Listed Issuer Financing Exemption").

On November 4, 2025, the Company entered into an engagement agreement with Red Cloud Securities Inc. ("Red Cloud") to act as sole agent and bookrunner in connection with a "best efforts" private placement (the "Marketed Offering") for aggregate gross proceeds of up to C$5,000,000 from the sale of any combination of the following:

A minimum of 10,000,000 units (each, a " Unit ") of the Company at a price of $0.20 per Unit and up to a maximum of 15,000,000 HD Units;

") of the Company at a price of $0.20 per Unit and up to a maximum of 15,000,000 HD Units; Up to 13,043,478 flow-through units of the Company (each, a " FT Unit ") at a price of C$0.23 per FT Unit; and

") at a price of C$0.23 per FT Unit; and Up to 3,125,000 flow-through units of the Company to be sold to charitable purchasers (each, a "Charity FT Unit", and collectively with the Units and FT Units, the "Offered Securities") at a price of C$0.32 per Charity FT Unit.

Each Unit will consist of one common share of the Company (a "Unit Share") and one common share purchase warrant (each, a "Warrant"). Each FT Unit and Charity FT Unit will consist of one common share of the Company to be issued as a "flow-through share" within the meaning of subsection 66(15) of the Income Tax Act (Canada) (each, a "FT Share") and one Warrant. Each Warrant shall entitle the holder to purchase one common share of the Company (each, a "Warrant Share") at a price of C$0.30 at any time on or before that date which is 36 months after the Closing Date (as herein defined).

The Company has granted Red Cloud an option, exercisable in full or in part up to 48 hours prior to the closing of the Marketed Offering, to sell up to an additional C$1,000,000 in any combination of Units, FT Units and Charity FT Units at their respective offering prices (the "Agent's Option"). The Marketed Offering and the securities issuable upon exercise of the Agent's Option shall be collectively referred to as the "Offering".

The Company intends to use the net proceeds from the Offering for the exploration and advancement of the Company's PL Gold Mine Project located in Manitoba as well as for working capital and general corporate purposes, as is more fully described in the Offering Document (as herein defined).

The gross proceeds from the sale of FT Shares will be used by the Company to incur eligible "Canadian exploration expenses" that qualify as "flow-through mining expenditures" as both terms are defined in the Income Tax Act (Canada) (the "Qualifying Expenditures") related to the Company's PL Gold Mine Project on or before December 31, 2026. All Qualifying Expenditures will be renounced in favour of the subscribers of the FT Units and Charity FT Units effective December 31, 2025.

Subject to compliance with applicable regulatory requirements and in accordance with National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions ("NI 45-106"), the Units and Charity FT Units (the "LIFE Securities") will be offered for sale to purchasers resident in the provinces of Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, Ontario and Saskatchewan (the "Canadian Selling Jurisdictions") pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption. The securities issuable from the sale of the LIFE Securities are expected to be immediately freely tradeable in accordance with applicable Canadian securities legislation for LIFE Securities sold to purchasers resident in Canada. The Units may also be sold in offshore jurisdictions and in the United States on a private placement basis pursuant to one or more exemptions from the registration requirements of the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act").

The FT Units will be offered by way of the "accredited investor" and "minimum amount investment" exemptions under National Instrument 45-106 - Prospectus Exemptions in the Canadian Selling Jurisdictions. All securities not issued pursuant to the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption will be subject to a hold period in Canada ending on the date that is four months plus one day following the Closing Date as defined in Subsection 2.5(2) of Multilateral Instrument 45-102 - Resale of Securities.

The Offering is scheduled to close on December 3, 2025 or such other date as the Company and Red Cloud may agree (the "Closing Date"). Completion of the Offering is subject to certain conditions including, but not limited to, the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals, including the approval of the TSX Venture Exchange (the "TSXV").

The securities to be offered pursuant to the Offering have not been, and will not be, registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States or to, or for the account or benefit of, United States persons absent registration or any applicable exemption from the registration requirements of the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy securities in the United States, nor shall there be any sale of these securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

About Minnova Corp.

Minnova Corp. is focused on the restart of its PL Gold Mine, which included completion of a Positive Feasibility Study in 2018, based on a gold price of US$1,250 per ounce. The study concluded the restart of the PL Mine, at an average annual production rate of 46,493 ounces over a minimum 5-year mine life, was economically robust. Importantly the global resource remains open to expansion, as does the reserve. The PL Gold Mine benefits from a short pre-production timeline forecast at 15 months a valid underground mining permit (Environment Act 1207E), and a 1,000 tpd processing plant. The project is fully road accessible and close to existing mining infrastructure in the prolific Flin Flon Greenstone Belt of Central Manitoba.

Forward-Looking Statements

Neither the TSXV nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSXV) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release. This news release contains certain "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Forward-looking information is frequently characterized by words such as "plan", "expect", "project", "intend", "believe", "anticipate", "estimate", "may", "will", "would", "potential", "proposed" and other similar words, or statements that certain events or conditions "may" or "will" occur. Forward-looking statements herein includes, but is not limited to, statements that address activities, events or developments that Minnova expects or anticipates will or may occur in the future including statements regarding the Offering, the closing of the Offering, the intended use of proceeds of the Offering, the filing of the Offering Document and the tax treatment of the FT Shares. These statements are only predictions. Forward-looking information is based on the opinions and estimates of management at the date the information is provided, and is subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information.

For a description of the risks and uncertainties facing the Company and its business and affairs, readers should refer to the Company's Management's Discussion and Analysis. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking information if circumstances or management's estimates or opinions should change, unless required by law. The reader is cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking information.

NOT FOR DISTRIBUTION TO UNITED STATES NEWS WIRE SERVICES OR FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275096

SOURCE: Minnova Corp.
Colliers' 2026 Global Investor Outlook reveals investors are shifting from passive structures and actively redeploying capital across sectors and markets

TORONTO and LONDON, Nov. 18, 2025, revealing investors are re-entering global real estate markets with confidence, pursuing diversification across regions and sectors. Based on Colliers' proprietary research and a global survey of institutional investors, the report finds that market fundamentals are improving, liquidity is returning, and pricing expectations are normalizing. These trends are fuelling optimism for 2026, even as cost pressures and geopolitical risks remain.

"Investors are changing gears," said Luke Dawson, Head of Global and EMEA Capital Markets at Colliers. "After a challenging period, capital is moving decisively toward stability and opportunity. Hands-on, controlled strategies and partnerships are driving value as the market regains its footing."

Investors migrate to active strategies and global diversification

Nearly half of investors (49%) currently favour direct investments and separate accounts, with platform joint ventures and M&A gaining traction. Private equity and secondary funds are increasingly investing in both property-owning entities and operating businesses. Furthermore, 37% of investors prefer core and core-plus strategies, though only 9% of real estate funds being raised target these areas - a sign of disconnect between investor appetite and fund orientation.

"This imbalance is prompting investors to rethink how they engage with the market, choosing structures that offer faster execution, flexibility and scale," said Damian Harrington, Director, Head of Research, Global Capital Markets and EMEA at Colliers. "Platform deals give investors a seat at the table and greater control. It's a tactical shift that reflects a more engaged, operational approach to capital deployment."

Global allocations are also evolving, with multi-regional strategies accounting for nearly 30% of global fundraising, underscoring the push for diversification. North America accounted for 40% of fundraising in 2025 YTD, down from 50% in 2024, while Europe surged 50% and Asia Pacific jumped 130% year-on-year, reflecting growing interest in markets such as Japan, Australia and India.

Data centres are booming, offices stage a comeback

Data centres accounted for 31% of global real estate funds raised from Q1-Q3 2025, making it the second-most popular asset type, displacing industrial. Offices, which have been overshadowed since the pandemic, are rebounding globally. Alternatives such as student housing, self-storage and healthcare are also gaining traction, driven by demographic trends and supply-demand imbalances.

"Investor preferences are quickly evolving. With the deep integration of digital infrastructure in our economy, renewed interest in offices following expanded return-to-office mandates and momentum across demographic-driven sectors, it's clear that capital is chasing both innovation and resilience," continued Dawson.

Industrial, multifamily and retail remain resilient

Industrial, multifamily and retail assets continue to attract capital, particularly in markets with strong fundamentals and constrained supply. Investors are focusing on logistics hubs, urban residential growth corridors and retail formats anchored by essential services.

Value-add driving redevelopment and repositioning

As investors focus on value creation, many are looking to reposition existing assets. High construction and operating costs are accelerating adaptive reuse, particularly in supply-constrained markets. Office buildings are being upgraded to meet sustainability standards and evolving tenant demand, with APAC and Europe leading this trend.

"The year ahead will reward investors who can combine speed with strategy," concluded Dawson. "We're seeing a redefinition of how capital is deployed, with tactical execution, platform control and regional rebalancing driving flows. The focus is shifting to value creation, operational influence and long-term resilience across sectors and markets."

Regional highlights

United States: Pent-up capital and attractive valuations are fuelling renewed activity, particularly in multifamily, industrial, and data centres.

Pent-up capital and attractive valuations are fuelling renewed activity, particularly in multifamily, industrial, and data centres. EMEA: Europe remains a magnet for global capital, with office and industrial sectors leading a rebound amid improving liquidity and transparency.

Europe remains a magnet for global capital, with office and industrial sectors leading a rebound amid improving liquidity and transparency. APAC: Robust growth prospects and rising allocations are boosting demand for office, logistics, and emerging alternatives such as data centres and student housing.

Robust growth prospects and rising allocations are boosting demand for office, logistics, and emerging alternatives such as data centres and student housing. Canada: Safe-haven appeal and supply constraints in multifamily and retail sectors are driving investor confidence, with institutional capital returning to the market.

Download the full report here.

Media Contact

Andrea Cheung

Senior Manager, Global Integrated Communications

Andrea.cheung@colliers.com

416-324-6402



About Colliers

Colliers, X @Colliersor LinkedIn.

A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/c6918d79-4f4f-4c5d-a289-481c081fae46
HIGHLIGHTS

Altris Engineering appointed as Lead Engineer for the updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the Ashram REE and Fluorspar Project in Quebec, Canada.

Altris will initially focus on a Gap Analysis to ascertain the work undertaken as part of the previous PEA and identify key areas required to close out the study using revised throughputs and an updated project configuration.

Following completion of the Gap Analysis, Altris will recommence the PEA closeout work packages with a target date set for the end of Q1 2026.

Ashram is already well advanced with an existing PEA study from 2015, a well-defined high-grade resource and multiple historical metallurgical campaigns completed, indicating outstanding flotation kinetics and the ability to produce a high-quality Mixed Rare Earth Oxide (MREO) product.

Given the depth of engineering experience available on the new board of Mont Royal, the Company is confident of delivering a PEA that will realise the best possible project economics for shareholders and the wider market.

Mont Royal's Managing Director, Nicholas Holthouse, said: "We are very pleased to be recommencing the PEA study and bringing this important piece of work to market. The focus of the team over the past few months has been to carefully review all the work completed to date and ascertain what can be done with the existing PEA format and metrics.

"This internal review, along with Altris's initial Gap Analysis mandate, will allow Mont Royal to recast the study with a strong focus on reducing technical risk and capital costs.

"The Mont Royal team looks forward to working with Altris and delivering the PEA study to market in a timely fashion."

Altris Engineering's Managing Director, Michael Ehlers, said: "We're excited to lead the PEA for Mont Royal's Ashram Project, one of North America's largest undeveloped rare earth deposits. Altris was selected for our team's deep expertise in similar project design and execution, particularly our management's extensive experience in Quebec's project development space. Collectively, our team has delivered multiple scoping, pre-feasibility, and feasibility studies, and has led EPC and EPCM project execution for battery and critical minerals projects across multiple global jurisdictions. We look forward to completing the Gap Analysis before advancing the optimised PEA, with a focus on reducing technical risk and capital requirements to support Mont Royal's path to development."

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 18, 2025) - Mont Royal Resources Ltd (ASX: MRZ) ("Mont Royal" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that it has agreed to terms with Altris Engineering (Altris) for the execution and delivery of an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for its 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Project in northern Quebec, Canada.

It is expected that the updated PEA will take 3 - 6 months to complete, providing an update on the key work programs and strategic priorities for the Project and its pathway to development.

Altris will replace BBA consulting in this role and have been selected for their team's expertise in similar project design and execution, as well as the management team's extensive experience in the project development space in Canada and, most importantly, Quebec.

Collectively, the Altris team has delivered multiple scoping, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and has led EPC and EPCM project execution for battery and critical minerals projects across multiple global jurisdictions.

About Altris Engineering

Altris is an engineering consultancy providing practical and innovative solutions to clients in the mineral processing sector. The team combines multi-disciplinary expertise with extensive experience, having previously delivered a range of recognised and technically challenging projects across the industry. Altris supports projects from early concept through to operation, with a focus on constructability, cost-effectiveness, and operability. The company is committed to delivering efficient, high-quality outcomes that maximise value while maintaining strong technical standards and a client-focused approach.

Complemented by metallurgical support from its Canadian partners, the Altris team's extensive prior experience in Quebec includes involvement in critical minerals studies and projects across Quebec and Ontario covering cold-weather and remote operational environments, providing a practical understanding of regional technical, regulatory, and logistical requirements along with a strong understanding of local costs.

The Ashram Project is one of the largest undeveloped monazite-hosted rare earth deposits in North America, offering a unique opportunity to advance a new, large-scale source of critical rare earth supply at a time of growing Western demand and strategic focus on supply chain independence.

KEY ASSETS AND STRATEGY

The merged Company's flagship asset is the 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earths & Fluorspar Project ("Ashram Project"), which represents the largest undeveloped monazite-mineralised carbonatite-hosted Rare Earth Elements deposits in North America. In addition, the Company also holds the Eldor Niobium Project and the Northern Lights Lithium Project, both also located in Quebec (see Figure 1 below).

The Ashram Project is a Tier-1 REE deposit with high-value by-product potential (Fluorspar) and represents one of the most advanced rare earth development projects in North America. With over A$50 million invested historically in exploration, drilling, resource definition and development studies, Ashram represents a cornerstone asset in Canada's critical minerals push.

Figure 1: Ashram REE & Fluorspar Project Location and location of Northern Lights Project.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/12033/275111_1fcb2ddfc4ca1bbe_001full.jpg

This announcement has been approved for and on behalf of the Board of Directors.

ENDS

Joel Ives | Company Secretary

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About Mont Royal Resources

Mont Royal Resources Limited (ASX: MRZ) (TSXV: MRZL) is a critical minerals development and exploration company with projects in Quebec, Canada. The Company is dedicated to advancing its 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Deposit in Quebec, Canada - one of the largest monazite-dominant carbonatite-hosted Rare Earth Elements deposits in North America. In addition company owns 75% of Northern Lights Minerals 536km2 tenement package located in the Upper Eastmain Greenstone belt. The projects are located in the emerging James Bay area, a Tier-1 mining jurisdiction of Quebec, and are prospective for lithium, precious (Gold, Silver) and base metals mineralisation (Copper, Nickel).

For further information regarding Mont Royal Resources Limited, please visit the ASX platform (ASX: MRZ) or the Mont Royal's website www.montroyalres.com.

Important Notices & Disclaimers

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Australian securities laws and "forward looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address circumstances, events, activities or developments that could, or may or will occur are forward looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these events, activities or developments from coming to fruition include: actual results of current and future exploration activities; that Mont Royal may not be able to fully finance any additional exploration on the Ashram Project; that even if Mont Royal is able raise capital, costs for exploration activities may increase such that Mont Royal may not have sufficient funds to pay for such exploration or processing activities; the timing and content of the proposed drill program and any future work programs may not be completed as proposed or at all; geological interpretations based on drilling that may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumptions based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits that, with further test work, may not be comparable; testing of our process may not prove successful or samples derived from the Ashram Project may not yield positive results, and even if such tests are successful or initial sample results are positive, the economic and other outcomes may not be as expected; the anticipated market demand for rare earth elements and other minerals may not be as expected; the availability of labour and equipment to undertake future exploration work and testing activities; geopolitical risks which may result in market and economic instability; and despite the current expected viability of the Ashram Project, conditions changing such that even if metals or minerals are discovered on the Ashram Project, the project may not be commercially viable, or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the public filings made by Mont Royal. Although Mont Royal has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements are based on Mont Royal's current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about its business and the industry in which it operates and management's beliefs and assumptions, including the non-occurrence of the risks and uncertainties that are described above and in the public filings made by Mont Royal or other events occurring outside of our normal course of business, and are not guarantees of future performance or development and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are in some cases beyond Mont Royal's control.

Forward-looking statements in this announcement include, but are not limited to, the goals, strategies, opportunities, technologies used, project timelines and funding requirements; impact of combined management expertise and prospective shareholding; the plans, operations and prospects of Mont Royal and its properties; the continued advancement of the Ashram Project to development; that Ashram's fluorspar component which makes it one of the largest potential sources of fluorspar in the world and could be a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets; that Mont Royal is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth element producers globally, with a focus on being a long-term global supplier of mixed rare earth carbonate and/or NdPr oxide; and that Mont Royal may explore the potential of other high-value commodities on the Ashram Property and the expected timetable for dual listing of Mont Royal's shares; and statements about market and industry trends, which are based on interpretation of market conditions. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "anticipate", "expect", "likely", "propose", "will", "intend", "should", "could", "may", "believe", "forecast", "estimate", "target", "outlook", "guidance" (including negative or grammatical variations) and other similar expressions. No representation, warranty, guarantee or assurance, express or implied, is given or made in relation to any forward-looking statement. In particular no representation, warranty or assumption, express or implied, is given in relation to any underlying assumption or that any forward-looking statement will be achieved. There can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual and future events may vary materially from the forward-looking statements and the assumptions on which the forward-looking statements were based, because events and actual circumstances frequently do not occur as forecast and future results are subject to known and unknown risks such as changes in market conditions and regulations.

Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, and should rely on their own independent enquiries, investigations and advice regarding information contained in this announcement. Any reliance by a reader on the information contained in this announcement is wholly at the reader's own risk.

To the maximum extent permitted by law or any relevant listing rules of the ASX/TSX-V, Mont Royal and their respective related bodies corporate and affiliates and their respective directors, officers, employees, advisers, agents and intermediaries disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to the information in this announcement to reflect any change in expectations in relation to any forward-looking statements or any such change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements were based. Nothing in this announcement will, under any circumstances (including by reason of this announcement remaining available and not being superseded or replaced by any other announcement or publication with respect to Mont Royal or the subject matter of this announcement), create an implication that there has been no change in the affairs of Mont Royal since the date of this announcement.

Not Investment Advice

This announcement is not financial product, investment advice or a recommendation to acquire securities of Mont Royal or Commerce and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of individuals. Each recipient of this announcement should make its own enquiries and investigations regarding all information in this announcement, including, but not limited to, the assumption, uncertainty and contingencies which may affect future operations of Mont Royal and the impact that different future outcomes may have on Mont Royal. Before making an investment decision, prospective investors should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, financial situation and needs, and seek legal, taxation and financial advice appropriate to their jurisdiction and circumstances.

Unless otherwise stated, all dollar values in this Announcement are reported in Australian dollars.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275111

SOURCE: Mont Royal Resources Limited
Edmonton, Alberta--(Newsfile Corp. - November 18, 2025) - Sankamap Metals Inc. (CSE: SCU) ("Sankamap" or the "Company") further to the Company's news releases dated October 21, 2025, and November 4, 2025, the Company continues to work towards the filing of its annual audited financial statements and management's discussion and analysis for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2025 (the "Required Filings").

The audit of Sankamap's private subsidiary is not yet complete; however, completion is anticipated within the coming days. The delay in meeting the original timeline resulted from the departure of the quality-control partner overseeing the file during the review process. Sankamap is evaluating the possibility of appointing its subsidiary's auditor as its auditor to complete the consolidated audit, which may accelerate the overall timeline. While Sankamap and its auditor will continue to work toward completing the audit by November 28, 2025, Sankamap anticipates that an extension may be required given the amount of work that remains outstanding.

The Required Filings were due to be filed by October 28, 2025. In connection with the anticipated delays in making the Required Filings, the Company made an application for a Management Cease Trade Order ("MCTO") under National Policy 12-203 Management Cease Trade Orders ("NP 12-203") to the Alberta Securities Commission, as principal regulator for the Company, and the MCTO was issued on October 29, 2025. The MCTO restricts all trading by the Company's CEO and CFO in securities of the Company, whether direct or indirect. The issuance of the MCTO will not affect the ability of persons who are not directors, officers or insiders of the Company to trade their securities. The MCTO will remain in effect until the Required Filings are filed or until it is revoked or varied.

The Company expects to proceed with the filing of its interim first-quarter financial statements shortly after the Required Filings have been completed and submitted.

The Company confirms that it intends to satisfy the provisions of the alternative information guidelines described in NP 12-203 by issuing bi-weekly default status reports in the form of a news release until it meets the Required Filings requirement. The Company has not taken any steps towards any insolvency proceeding and the Company has no material information relating to its affairs that has not been generally disclosed.

About Sankamap Metals Inc.

Sankamap Metals Inc. (CSE: SCU) is a Canadian mineral exploration company dedicated to the discovery and development of high-grade copper and gold deposits through its flagship Oceania Project, located in the South Pacific. The Company's fully permitted assets are strategically positioned in the Solomon Islands, along a prolific geological trend that hosts major copper-gold deposits; including Newcrest's Lihir Mine, with a resource of 71.9 million ounces of gold (310 Mt containing 23 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t P+P, 520 Mt containing 39 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t indicated, 81 Mt containing 5 Moz Au at 1.9 g/t measured, 61 Mt containing 4.9 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t Inferred).

Exploration is actively advancing at both the Kuma and Fauro properties, part of Sankamap's Oceania Project in the Solomon Islands. Historical work has already highlighted the mineral potential of both sites, which lie along a highly prospective copper and gold-bearing trend, suggesting the possibility of further, yet-to-be-discovered deposits.

At Kuma, the property is believed to host an underexplored and largely untested porphyry copper-gold (Cu-Au) system. Historical rock chip sampling has returned consistently elevated gold values above 0.5 g/t Au, including a standout sample assaying 11.7% Cu and 13.5 g/t Au2; underscoring the area's significant potential.

At Fauro, particularly at the Meriguna Target, historical trenching has returned highly encouraging results, including 8.0 meters at 27.95 g/t Au and 14.0 meters at 8.94 g/t Au3. Complementing these results are exceptional grab sample assays, including historical values of up to 173 g/t Au3, along with recent sampling by Sankamap at the Kiovakase Target, which returned numerous high-grade copper values, reaching up to 4.09% Cu. In addition, limited historical shallow drilling intersected 35.0 meters at 2.08 g/t Au3, further underscoring the property's strong mineral potential and the merit for continued exploration. With a commitment to systematic exploration and a team of experienced professionals, Sankamap aims to unlock the untapped potential of underexplored regions and create substantial value for its shareholders. For more information, please refer to SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca), under Sankamap's profile.

1.Newcrest Technical Report, 2020 (Lihir: 310 Mt containing 23 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t P+P, 520 Mt containing 39 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t indicated, 81 Mt containing 5 Moz Au at 1.9 g/t measured, 61 Mt containing 4.9 Moz Au at 2.3 g/t Inferred)

2. Historical grab, soil and BLEG samples from SolGold Kuma Review June 2015, and SolGold plc Annual Report 2013/2012

3. September 2010-June 2012 press releases from Solomon Gold Ltd. and SolGold Fauro Island Summary Technical Info 2012

QP Disclosure

The technical content for the Oceania Project in this news release has been reviewed and approved by John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol., a Qualified Person in accordance with CIM guidelines. Mr. John Florek is in good standing with the Professional Geoscientists of Ontario (Member ID:1228) and a director and officer of the Company.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS

s/ "John Florek"

John Florek, M.Sc., P.Geol

Chief Executive Officer

Sankamap Metals Inc.

The Canadian Securities Exchange has not approved nor disapproved this press release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements made and information contained herein may constitute "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and United States securities legislation. These statements and information are based on facts currently available to Sankamap and there is no assurance that the actual results will meet management's expectations. Forward-looking statements and information may be identified by such terms as "anticipates," "believes," "targets," "estimates," "plans," "expects," "may," "will," "could" or "would."

This press release contains forward-looking statements, including, but not limited to, statements regarding management's expectations about obtaining the MCTO and completing the Required Filings within the anticipated timeline. Forward-looking statements are subject to various risks, uncertainties, and other factors that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such statements. Sankamap does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements or information, except as required by applicable securities laws. For more information on the Company, investors should review the Company's continuous disclosure filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca .

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275112

SOURCE: Sankamap Metals Inc.
Thunder Bay, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 18, 2025) - Metals Creek Resources Corp. (TSXV: MEK) (FSE: M1C1) (the "Company" or "Metals Creek") announces that, further to its October 21, 2025 news release it has received conditional approval from the TSX Venture Exchange (the "Exchange") for its non-brokered private placement of both non-flow through and flow-through units (the "Financing").

The Company intends to issue up to 12,500,000 flow-through units at a price of $0.04 per unit (the "FT Units") and up to 14,285,714 non-flow-through units at a price of $0.035 per unit (the "NFT Units") for aggregate proceeds of up to $1,000,000. Each FT Unit consists of one flow-through common share (the "FT Shares") and one-half of a non-flow through common share purchase warrant (the "FT Warrants"), each whole FT Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one additional non-flow through common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.06 per common share for a period of 24 months from the date of issue. The FT Shares will entitle the holder to receive the tax benefits applicable to flow-through shares, in accordance with provisions of the Income Tax Act (Canada). Each NFT Unit consists of one non-flow through common share and one non-flow through common share purchase warrant (the "NFT Warrants"), each NFT Warrant entitling the holder to purchase one additional non-flow through common share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.06 per common share for a period of 60 months from the date of issue.

Further, the Company has closed a first tranche of the Financing, issuing 7,500,000 NFT Units and 8,625,000 FT Units, for aggregate gross proceeds of $607,500.

In connection with the private placement, the Company may pay finders' fees in cash or securities or a combination of both, as permitted by the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange. All securities issued pursuant to the Private Placement will be subject to a four-month hold period. The Private Placement is subject to final approval by the TSX Venture Exchange.

The proceeds raised from the FT Units will be used for exploration on the Company's Newfoundland and Ontario properties including its Ogden Gold Project and will ensure that such Canadian Exploration Expenses qualify as a "flow-through mining expenditure" for purposes of the Income Tax Act (Canada), related to the exploration of the Company's exploration projects.

About Metals Creek Resources Corp.

Metals Creek Resources Corp. is a junior exploration company incorporated under the laws of the Province of British Columbia, is a reporting issuer in Alberta, British Columbia and Ontario, and has its common shares listed for trading on the Exchange under the symbol "MEK".

Metals Creek has earned a 50% interest in the Ogden Gold Property, including the past producing Naybob Gold mine, located 6 km south of Timmins, Ontario and has an 8 km strike length of the prolific Porcupine-Destor Fault (P-DF).

Metals Creek also has multiple quality projects available for option which can be viewed on the Company's website. Parties interested in seeking more information about properties available for option can contact the Company at the number below.

Additional information concerning the Company is contained in documents filed by the Company with securities regulators, available under its profile at www.sedarplus.ca.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275113

SOURCE: Metals Creek Resources Corp.
Singtel strengthens its 5G enterprise solution leadership by driving intelligent connectivity and digital transformation across industries

SAN ANTONIO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Frost & Sullivan is pleased to announce that Singtel has received the 2025 Asia-Pacific Company of the Year Recognition in the 5G enterprise industry for its exceptional performance in enabling digital transformation across enterprise segments. The telco received the award for its ability to deliver next-generation 5G solutions that empower enterprises to innovate, achieve operational efficiency, and enhance customer experiences through advanced connectivity, cloud integration, and automation.

Frost & Sullivan evaluates companies through a rigorous benchmarking process across two core dimensions: strategy effectiveness and strategy execution. Singtel excelled in both, demonstrating its ability to align its long-term strategy with evolving market needs while executing at scale. "Singtel has demonstrated exceptional leadership in commercializing 5G technology to deliver tangible enterprise impact. By integrating edge computing, cloud orchestration, and AI-driven automation through its Paragon platform, it has successfully addressed the long-standing limitations of legacy systems. The company's focus on scalability, network reliability, and customer experience positions it as a benchmark for 5G enterprise transformation in the region," said Mei Lee Quah, Senior Director, ICT Research at Frost & Sullivan.

Guided by its Singtel28 growth strategy, the company has continued to strengthen its market position through digital innovation, partnerships, and sustainable business practices. With nationwide 5G standalone coverage and strategic coverage enhancements with its 700 MHz spectrum, Singtel enables enterprises to harness the full potential of 5G technology. Its 5G+ Priority service, which leverages network slicing, ensures uninterrupted connectivity for mission-critical operations, while its Empower portal simplifies service management and enhances operational visibility for enterprise users.

Innovation is at the heart of Singtel's approach. Its Paragon platform seamlessly integrates 5G with edge computing and cloud orchestration, empowering enterprises to deploy and manage AI, IoT, and immersive applications efficiently. This innovation has been particularly transformative for industries such as manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, where low-latency, high-reliability connectivity drives real-time automation and analytics.

Singtel's robust 5G ecosystem continues to deliver measurable value across industries. In healthcare, its 5G and network slicing capabilities support AR/MR devices and mobile robotics for remote diagnostics and telemedicine, improving accessibility and service delivery. In logistics, its 5G+ Enterprise Velocity plans enable predictive maintenance and autonomous operations through IoT connectivity and enhanced indoor coverage. These deployments highlight Singtel's commitment to developing purpose-built, industry-specific solutions that enable customers to scale intelligently and securely.

Frost & Sullivan commends Singtel for setting a high standard in competitive strategy, innovation, and customer experience. The company's leadership in 5G enterprise transformation extends beyond technology; its brand equity, customer-centric mindset, and operational excellence collectively reinforce its position as one of the most trusted telecom brands in Asia-Pacific. As enterprises embrace AI, automation, and digital-first operations, Singtel's ability to deliver reliable, intelligent, and future-ready connectivity will continue to shape the evolution of the 5G enterprise landscape.

Each year, Frost & Sullivan presents the Company of the Year Recognition to a firm that exemplifies outstanding strategy development and execution, resulting in superior market performance and customer satisfaction. This recognition celebrates organizations that demonstrate forward-thinking leadership, innovation excellence, and the ability to set industry benchmarks through measurable impact.

Frost & Sullivan Best Practices Recognition

Frost & Sullivan's Best Practices Recognitions honor companies across regional and global markets that exhibit exceptional achievement and consistent excellence in areas such as leadership, technological innovation, customer experience, and strategic product development. Each recognition is the result of a rigorous analytical process in which Frost & Sullivan industry experts benchmark performance through comprehensive interviews, deep-dive analysis, and extensive secondary research. The goal is to identify true best-in-class organizations that are driving transformative growth and setting new industry standards.

Contact us: Start the discussion.

Contact:

Tarini Singh

E: Tarini.Singh@frost.com

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Entity brings debate on sustainable practices and financial inclusion to international forum

MARRAKECH , Morroco, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Associacao Nacional dos Bureaus de Credito (ANBC), from Brazil, will take part in the Second Africa Regional Consultative Group Meeting, to be held on 27th and 28th November 2025 in Marrakech, Morocco. The event is organized by the International Committee on Credit Reporting (ICCR), an international committee linked to the World Bank and will bring together representatives from credit institutions across several countries to discuss initiatives focused on sustainable development and equitable access to credit.

On the first day of the meeting, ANBC's Executive President, Elias Sfeir, will present the topic "The Brazilian experience in the implementation of ESG data" during the panel on international initiatives, sharing how Brazil has incorporated environmental, social and governance criteria into its credit information system. The discussion is part of one of the two main themes selected by the ICCR for this edition: the global development of ESG initiatives in credit bureaus and public registries, and the sharing of information to expand women's access to credit.

ANBC's participation reinforces Brazil's role in global discussions on sustainable credit. Throughout 2025, the organization has taken part in international events on every continent, promoting debate on innovation, responsibility and financial inclusion. "Bringing the Brazilian experience to international forums is a way of contributing to the improvement of credit practices and strengthening integration between different markets. It is a dialogue that allows us to share concrete results and learn from other contexts, ensuring that credit continues to be a tool for social and economic development," says Sfeir.

The executive also highlights the importance of benchmarking as a driver of innovation. "In 2025, we travelled to various regions of the world discussing relevant topics and were able to bring ideas and advancements back to Brazil, demonstrating the material impact of the results they are achieving," adds the President of the Brazilian entity.

ANBC maintains strategic partnerships with globally recognized organizations such as the Business Information Industry Association (BIIA), the European Credit Information Services Association (ACCIS), the Latin American Credit Federation (ALACRED), and the ICCR itself. These initiatives reinforce the association's commitment to modernizing and integrating the global credit information ecosystem, supporting policies that encourage sustainable economic growth.

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HAMBURG, Germany, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Jimdo, one of the leading website builders worldwide, today launched Companion, a set of AI tools designed to accelerate business success for solopreneurs and micro businesses. Founded in 2007, Jimdo has helped millions of users worldwide to build their online presence with website and e-commerce tools. It is now taking a significant step to empower customers' success.

According to the Hamburg-based company, early data shows the largest measured impact on their customers' business outcomes in its 18-year history: users are seeing 40% more customer inquiries and transactions, with 50% more businesses generating their first sale or inquiry within 30 days after accessing Companion.

Addressing a Structural Gap in the Market

Self-employed professionals and micro-businesses (up to 4 employees) represent 92% of U.S. enterprises - approximately 32 million businesses driving innovation and local commerce nationwide (source: U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Advocacy and U.S. Census Bureau, 2025). Yet they operate at a structural disadvantage: lacking access to the data-driven insights, strategic tools, and expert guidance available to larger enterprises while simultaneously managing accounting, customer acquisition, marketing, product development, and strategy alone.

"Our customers often hit a wall - they build beautiful websites, are passionate about their business, but don't know how to turn it into commercial success due to a lack of time and expertise," says Matthias Henze, co-founder and CEO of Jimdo. "With Companion, we are giving solopreneurs and micro businesses the technology and expertise they need and deserve to succeed."

AI That Works with the Reality of Solopreneurs

Companion, which is built deep into Jimdo product's architecture, delivers personalized and prioritised recommendations that drive visibility and transactions by analysing each business's performance history, industry benchmarks, and competitive landscape. When website traffic declines, Companion recommends specific local SEO optimizations. When visitors don't convert, it provides proven, actionable steps to improve conversion rates.

An integrated conversational AI enables users to ask strategic questions about their business and receive context-specific answers, functioning as a personalized business strategist available on-demand. A photographer may ask: "Am I undercharging at 800 per package?" Companion analyses their positioning, compares regional pricing for similar photographers, and explains that based on portfolio quality and target market, she should ask for 1,200. A local shop owner might wonder: "How do I attract more loyal customers?" and Companion will deliver tailored, impactful strategies with specific steps that are easy to implement

Olga Thurow, founder of KreativSchneiderei, says: "For me, Companion is a genuine game-changer. The tool lifts the mental burden - I save time and energy because I no longer have to figure out everything on my own."

Companion Roadmap: Toward Autonomous AI Agents

By design, Companion allows customers to always stay in control of their business whilst not having to do everything by themselves and gaining access to business insights and expert guidance that will make them thrive.

Jan Schlie, VP of AI at Jimdo, on future development: "Companion already understands each business and provides personalized recommendations that drive success. Next, it will execute more tasks autonomously, integrate deeper into daily workflows, and collaborate with other business tools. This will completely change the way our customers do business."

Availability

Jimdo Companion is available for all Jimdo Website customers (Creator excluded) across US, UK, Ireland and DACH at no extra cost. Additional markets will roll out shortly.



Press Kit

The complete press kit with images and FAQs is available here .

About Jimdo:

Jimdo is one of Europe's leading website builders for self-employed professionals and small businesses. Since its founding in Hamburg in 2007, Jimdo has helped millions of solopreneurs establish online presence and drive business success through user-friendly, legally compliant tools for websites, e-commerce, booking systems, and marketing. With the launch of Companion in November 2025, Jimdo is evolving from website builder to AI-powered business platform for the self-employed. The company remains 100% founder-owned, with approximately 230 employees worldwide working toward its mission to unleash the power of the self-employed.

More about Jimdo: www.jimdo.com

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SINGAPORE, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ChainUp, a global leader in digital asset solutions, has been awarded Best KYT/Transaction Monitoring Solution at the 8th Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence 2025. This marks the second major regtech award for ChainUp's crypto tracing tool this year, following the Thomson Reuters ALB Pan-Asian Regulatory Awards 2025 win. This dual recognition affirms ChainUp's crucial role in delivering essential digital asset compliance in a rapidly maturing regulatory landscape.

Driven by the rise of regulated products like Spot Bitcoin ETFs and real-world asset tokenization, best-in-class transaction monitoring is now foundational for financial institutions and Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) meeting stringent AML compliance standards (e.g., MiCA, DAC8) and mitigating risk.

This award recognizes solutions demonstrating outstanding effectiveness in monitoring digital asset transactions for illicit activity. Judges prioritized speed, accuracy, data comprehensiveness, and innovative features that address the complex challenges of the crypto ecosystem. ChainUp's KYT Crypto Tracing Tool was specifically recognized for its ability to go beyond basic rule-based checks, a critical requirement as illicit finance typologies become more complex.

The awards panel cited: "ChainUp's crypto monitoring solution excels because it addresses the core challenge of the industry's maturation: the need for institutional-grade transparency and accountability. The Address Bundling feature, in particular, showcases the type of innovation required to uphold market integrity and combat advanced financial crime."

Sailor Zhong, Founder & CEO of ChainUp commented: "The digital asset industry has crossed into a crucial, regulated phase. This award for our KYT crypto tracing tool is a powerful validation that compliance technology is the new foundational infrastructure. As institutional capital flows onto the blockchain, the industry requires predictive, AI-driven intelligence that provides the certainty enabling responsible growth and upholding market integrity."

- END -

About ChainUp

ChainUp, a leading global provider of digital asset solutions, empowers businesses to navigate the complexities of this evolving ecosystem. Founded in 2017 and headquartered in Singapore, ChainUp serves a diverse clientele, from Web3 companies to established financial institutions.

ChainUp's comprehensive suite of solutions includes crypto exchange solutions, liquidity technology, white label MPC wallet, KYT crypto tracing analytics tool, asset tokenization, crypto asset management, and Web3 infrastructure such as mining, staking, and blockchain APIs. For more information, visit: https://www.chainup.com/ .

About Regulation Asia

Regulation Asia is the leading source of actionable regulatory intelligence for Asia Pacific markets. With over 13,000+ subscribers, including regulatory bodies, exchanges, banks, asset managers and service providers, Regulation Asia plays a key role in shaping the regulatory agenda. The Regulation Asia Awards for Excellence recognises financial institutions, technology companies, legal and consulting firms, exchanges and other players that help ensure the highest regulatory compliance standards are upheld in the financial industry.

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Financial information platform Finimize today announced a strategic partnership with 21shares, the world's largest cryptocurrency ETP issuer, as the leader sponsor of the Modern Investor Summit 2025 in London.

The partnership will deliver educational content and thought leadership to Finimize's community of over 1.1 million retail investors worldwide through multiple channels from the flagship Modern Investor Summit 2025, educational guides hosted on Finimize.com, and promotional content distributed through Finimize's daily newsletter.

This announcement coincides with 21shares' expansion into the UK market, providing a platform to connect with retail investors at a pivotal moment for crypto adoption.

Combining Finimize's expertise in engaging modern investors with 21shares' innovative crypto investment solutions, the partnership reflects both companies' commitment to making cryptocurrency investing more accessible through education and innovation.

"Our community's appetite for crypto education and investment opportunities has never been stronger," said Carl Hazeley, CEO at Finimize. "This partnership allows us to deliver educational content and thought leadership that modern investors need as they navigate the cryptocurrency landscape."

"Education has always been at the heart of everything that 21shares does," said Duncan Moir, President of 21shares. "Partnering with Finimize allows us to engage directly with a new generation of investors who are curious, informed, and eager to understand how digital assets fit within diversified portfolios. As we expand into the UK market, this collaboration reinforces our shared mission to make crypto investing accessible, transparent, and grounded in knowledge."

About Finimize

Finimize empowers retail investors with concise insights from world-class analysts. With over one million subscribers to its newsletter and mobile app, Finimize boasts one of the largest retail investor communities globally. Finimize for Business supports over 350 financial institutions in engaging modern investors.

About 21shares

21shares is one of the world's leading cryptocurrency exchange traded product providers and offers the largest suite of physically-backed crypto ETPs in the market. The company was founded to make cryptocurrency more accessible to investors, and to bridge the gap between traditional finance and decentralized finance. Backed by a specialized research team, proprietary technology, and deep capital markets expertise, 21shares delivers innovative, simple and cost-efficient investment solutions.

21shares is a subsidiary of FalconX, one of the world's largest digital asset prime brokers.For more information, please visit www.21shares.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251118296085/en/

Contacts:

Press contact

Nicole Green

nicole@fortuneandgreen.co.uk

+447979 468819
The nomination committee in Equinor ASA (OSE:EQNR, NYSE:EQNR) recommends that the company's corporate assembly elects Jarle Roth as new member of the board of directors of Equinor ASA.

The nomination committee recommends Jarle Roth as new member of the board of directors.

Jarle Roth is an independent advisor. Roth has held CEO roles in multiple Norwegian companies, including at Eksportkreditt Norge AS, Arendals Fossekompani ASA, Umoe Group, Schat-Harding and Unitor ASA. His career spans across industrial investment management, change management, energy transition initiatives, financing of Norwegian export industries and global shipping services. He has extensive experience from major listed companies. His boardroom experience includes governance, risk management, strategy, M&A, and sustainability. Internationally, Roth has led and integrated businesses with activities within Europe, Americas and Asia.

Roth has previously served as chair of the Equinor Nomination Committee and Corporate Assembly.

Roth has an MSc of Finance and Business Administration ("sivilkonom") from the Norwegian School of Economics (NHH).

The election to the board of directors of Equinor ASA takes place in the company's corporate assembly meeting Wednesday 26 November 2025. It is proposed that the election takes effect from 1 December 2025 and is effective until the next ordinary election of members to the board of directors in June 2026.

Contacts:

Nils Morten Huseby, chair of the nomination committee

All enquiries to be directed through Equinor Corporate Press Office, Sissel Rinde, +47 412 60 584.

This information is subject of the disclosure requirements pursuant to section 5-12 of the Norwegian Securities Trading Act.
STOCKHOLM, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Hygiene and health company Essity has once again been awarded the prestigious Platinum medal by EcoVadis, the world's leading provider of business sustainability ratings. This recognition places Essity among the top 1% of all companies assessed worldwide for their sustainability performance. With an overall score of 88 out of 100, an increase from previous years, this achievement highlights Essity's continuous progress and unwavering commitment to responsible business practices.

The EcoVadis assessment, which covers over 150,000 companies in 185 countries and 250 industries, is a comprehensive evaluation of companies' performances across four key themes: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. In 2025, Essity achieved 'Outstanding' or 'Advanced' ratings in all major categories, with particular strengths in environmental stewardship, ethical business conduct, and transparent reporting.

EcoVadis' rigorous methodology rewards not only strong policies but also measurable actions and results. For Essity's key focus areas affecting its business, the sustainability rating reflects comprehensive policies on all key areas, including disclosure on progress toward the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

"Sustainability is at the heart of Essity's strategy and daily operations. This Platinum rating from EcoVadis is a testament to the dedication of our teams worldwide and our ongoing efforts to create long-term value for people, society, and the environment. We are proud to be recognized among the global leaders in sustainable business and remain committed to raising the bar for positive impact throughout our organization as well as our value chain," says Sahil Tesfu, Chief Strategy and Sustainability Officer at Essity.

EcoVadis is a highly trusted and leading independent provider of sustainability ratings for global value chains. Its evidence-based assessments follow international standards and are reviewed by sustainability experts. Companies receive a 0-100 score, medal levels by percentile (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum), and a scorecard showing key strengths and improvement areas.

Essity regularly shares these results and insights with customers and partners globally.

For further information, please contact:

Marc Specque, Public Relations Director, +33 614 316 792, Marc.Specque@essity.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/essity/r/essity-awarded-ecovadis-platinum-medal-for-outstanding-sustainability-leadership-in-2025,c4269062

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https://mb.cision.com/Main/15798/4269062/3792936.pdf Essity awarded EcoVadis Platinum medal for outstanding sustainability leadership in 2025 https://news.cision.com/essity/i/essity-ab-publ-group-ecovadis-platinum,c3488644 ESSITY AB PUBL GROUP EcoVadis Platinum

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/essity-awarded-ecovadis-platinum-medal-for-outstanding-sustainability-leadership-in-2025-302619855.html
Q2 2026 Results and South Africa Block renamed Block 1 CBK

Results for the Three and Six Month Periods Ended 30 September 2025 and Offshore South Africa Block Renamed Block 1 CBK in Tribute to late Colin Kinley

TORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (AIM:ECO)(TSX-V:EOG)(Toronto, Canada) , the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins, is pleased to announce its unaudited results for the three and six month periods ended 30 September 2025.

Highlights:

Financial

 The Company had cash and cash equivalents of US$2.1 million and no debt as at 30 September 2025.  The Company had total assets of US$18.9 million, total liabilities of US$1.4 million and total equity of US$17.6 million as at 30 September 2025.  The Company is due to receive additional $11.5m from Block 3B/4B JV partners upon milestones in accordance with previously signed farm out agreements.

South Africa

Block 1 CBK

 On 5 June 2024, Eco announced the acquisition of a 75% interest in Block 1 Offshore South Africa in the Orange Basin and received the Governmental Title Award and the Exploration Right and Operatorship, the final receipt of which was announced on 4 June 2025.  Eco has acquired existing seismic data and an interpretation process in parallel to an active farm-out process is underway.  In honour of the late Colin Brent Kinley, Eco Atlantic's Co-Founder and former Chief Operating Officer, who passed away on November 5, 2025, Azinam South Africa Limited ("Azinam SA"), the Operator of Exploration Right 12/3/362, in agreement with its Joint Venture Partner has renamed Block 1 Offshore South Africa to " Block 1 CBK " effective 17 November 2025.  On 19 November 2025, the Petroleum Agency of South Africa granted the Assignment and Transfer of a 25% participating interest from the local JV partner Tosaco Energy (Pty) Ltd to OrangeBasin Energies (Pty) ltd., a B-BBEE-rated South African entity.

Block 3B/4B

 Throughout 2025, Eco and its JV partners have continued to advance the license work programme and preparations for the drilling campaign in anticipation of drilling permit approval. The operator has stated that the current plan is to drill the first exploration well on Block 3B/4B as soon as Environmental Authorisation is confirmed and has identified Nayla, a prospect that lies in the north of the license area as the potential first drilling target.  The Company is due to receive additional $11.5m from Block 3B/4B JV partners upon milestones in accordance with previously signed farm out agreements.

Namibia

 As part of Eco's efforts to optimise its portfolio in Namibia, the Company received a one year license extension to its initial exploration phase, across all four of its PELs (Petroleum Exploration Licence) in Namibia and, pending government approval, farmed out its entire Working Interest, in PEL 98 (Block 2213 "Sharon Block") to an arms-length wholly Namibian-owned company, Lamda Energy (Pty) Ltd ("Lamda Energy").  The Company continues to receive considerable interest in its licenses in Namibia and is currently assessing options to further progress its exploration work programmes amid a potential farm-out.

Guyana

 The Company remains engaged in an active farmout process for the Orinduik Block.  In light of ExxonMobil's Final Investment Decision (FID) for the development of the Hammerhead project in the Stabroek block, Eco is evaluating the Jethro-1 and Joe-1 heavy oil discoveries offshore Guyana to determine the appropriate appraisal approach.

Post-period end

 On 7 November, the Company announced the sudden passing of Mr. Colin Kinley, a board member and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic. Mr. Kinley had a distinguished career spanning more than 45 years in the mining and oil and gas frontier exploration industries. In addition to his co-founding role with Eco, and the wealth of knowledge and experience he has brought to the Company over the years, he has served as a valued director and senior executive of numerous public companies.  Eco published an interview with its President and Chief Executive Officer, Gil Holzman discussing Eco's progress over 2025, its focus on advancing strategic acreage across Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa, and the near-term catalysts that the Company believes will deliver tangible results and value for shareholders.  The interview can be viewed on the Company's website at: https://www.ecooilandgas.com/investors/results-presentation/

Gil Holzman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:

"During the period Eco has continued to advance our strategy of building value through focused portfolio management in key hydrocarbon frontiers. In South Africa, we have now completed the acquisition of a 75% interest and operatorship in Block 1 in the Orange Basin. This, alongside our existing interest in the highly prospective Block 3B/4B, further consolidates our presence in a world-class hydrocarbon province.

"In Namibia, our focus has been on portfolio optimisation, aimed at maximising the value of our assets and unlocking their potential for the benefit of our stakeholders. We secured one-year extensions across all four of our PELs and agreed a farm-out of PEL 98 to Lamda Energy, reinforcing the potential of our portfolio and deepening our support for local ownership and operational leadership in Namibia.

"We remain fully engaged in the farm-out process for the Orinduik Block in Guyana and continue to evaluate the heavy oil potential of the Jethro-1 and Joe-1 discoveries, both of which present exciting development opportunities.

"As our stakeholders will be aware, it was with great sadness that we recently announced the passing of Eco's co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Colin Kinley. A bastion of the oil and gas sector and a close friend to all of us at Eco, Colin will be missed dearly. With Alice Carroll and myself assuming his responsibilities, we will endeavour to continue his legacy of operational excellence and diligence.

"As we move through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, Eco is well-positioned with an international footprint across three of the best hydrocarbon jurisdictions in the world, and a clear path toward multiple near-term catalysts that we believe will create long-term value for our shareholders."

The Company's unaudited financial statements for the three and six month periods ended 30 September 2025 is available for download on the Company's website at www.ecooilandgas.com and on Sedar at www.sedar.com .

The following are the Company's Balance Sheet, Income Statements, Cash Flow Statement and selected notes from the annual Financial Statements. All amounts are in US Dollars, unless otherwise stated.

Balance Sheet

September 30, March 31, 2025 2025 Assets Current Assets Cash and cash equivalents 2,059,224 4,726,152 Short-term investments 71,800 69,676 Government receivable 47,211 58,933 Amounts owing by license partners - 206,818 Accounts receivable and prepaid expenses 79,615 54,550 Total Current Assets 2,257,850 5,116,129 Non- Current Assets Petroleum and natural gas licenses 16,672,274 16,447,274 Total Non-Current Assets 16,672,274 16,447,274 Total Assets 18,930,124 21,563,403 Liabilities Current Liabilities Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 1,364,204 1,178,785 Total Current Liabilities 1,364,204 1,178,785 Total Liabilities 1,364,204 1,178,785 Equity Share capital 117,730,863 107,129,936 Restricted Share Units reserve 1,038,722 1,038,722 Warrants - 10,600,927 Stock options 3,619,259 3,209,329 Foreign currency translation reserve (1,545,688) (1,527,171) Accumulated deficit (103,277,236) (100,067,125) Total Equity 17,565,920 20,384,618 Total Liabilities and Equity 18,930,124 21,563,403

Income Statement

Three months ended Six months ended September 30, September 30, 2025 2024 2025 2024 Income Interest income 2,116 4,300 18,096 7,511 Operating expenses Compensation costs 453,568 271,845 705,643 471,312 Professional fees 138,434 214,519 250,037 356,488 Operating costs, net 528,221 1,005,555 1,475,456 1,547,241 General and administrativecosts 267,109 156,588 394,095 314,613 Share-based compensation 268,861 - 409,930 - Foreign exchange loss (gain) 737 (11,813) (6,954) 77,310 Total operating expenses 1,656,930 1,636,694 3,228,207 2,766,964 Net loss for the year, before taxes (1,654,814) (1,632,394) (3,210,111) (2,759,453) Tax recovery - - - - Net loss for the year, after taxes (1,654,814) (1,632,394) (3,210,111) (2,759,453) Foreign currency translation adjustment (984) 75,627 (18,517) 43,888 Comprehensive loss for the period (1,655,798) (1,556,767) (3,228,628) (2,715,565) Basic and diluted net loss per share: (0.005) (0.004) (0.010) (0.007) Weighted average number of ordinary shares used in computing basic and diluted net loss per share 315,231,936 370,173,680 315,231,936 370,173,680

Cash Flow Statement

Six months ended September 30, 2025 2024 Cash flow from operating activities Net loss from operations (3,210,111) (2,759,453) Items not affecting cash: Share-based compensation 409,930 - Changes in non-cash working capital: Government receivable 11,722 5,032 Accounts payable and accrued liabilities 185,419 (192,665) Accounts receivable and prepaid expenses (25,065) 37,263 Advance from and amounts owing to license partners 206,818 41,715 Cash flow from operating activities (2,421,287) (2,868,108) Cash flow from investing activities Short-term investments (2,124) (61,893) Acquisition of interest in property (225,000) (150,000) Proceeds from Block 3B/4B farm-out - 8,015,320 Cash flow from investing activities (227,124) 7,803,427 Decrease in cash and cash equivalents (2,648,411) 4,935,319 Foreign exchange differences (18,517) 43,888 Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 4,726,152 2,967,005 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period 2,059,224 7,946,212

ENDS

For more information, please visit www.ecooilandgas.com or contact the following.

Eco Atlantic Oil and Gas c/o Celicourt +44 (0) 20 7770 6424 Gil Holzman, Chief Executive Officer

Alice Carroll, Head of Corporate Sustainability Strand Hanson (Financial & Nominated Adviser) +44 (0) 20 7409 3494 James Harris

James Bellman

Edward Foulkes Berenberg (Broker) +44 (0) 20 3207 7800 Matthew Armitt

Ciaran Walsh

Detlir Elezi Celicourt (PR) +44 (0) 20 7770 6424 Mark Antelme

Charles Denley-Myerson

About Eco Atlantic:

Eco Atlantic is a TSX-V and AIM-quoted Atlantic Margin-focused oil and gas exploration company with offshore license interests in Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa. Eco aims to deliver material value for its stakeholders through its role in the energy transition to explore for low carbon intensity oil and gas in stable emerging markets close to infrastructure.

Offshore Guyana, in the proven Guyana-Suriname Basin, the Company operates a 100% Working Interest in the 1,354 km 2 Orinduik Block. In Namibia, the Company holds Operatorship and an 85% Working Interest in four offshore Petroleum Licences: PELs: 97, 98, 99, and 100, representing a combined area of 28,593 km 2 in the Walvis Basin. Offshore South Africa, Eco holds a 5.25% Working Interest in Block 3B/4B and a 75% Operated Interest in Block 1, in the Orange Basin, totalling approximately 37,510km 2 .

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain information set forth in this document contains forward-looking information and statements including, without limitation, management's business strategy, and management's assessment of future plans and operations, the outcome of discussions regarding potential partners. Such forward-looking statements or information are provided for the purpose of providing information about management's current expectations and plans relating to the future, including successful negotiation of farm-in agreement, results of exploration as proposed or at all. Forward-looking statements or information typically contain statements with words such as "anticipate", "believe", "expect", "plan", "intend", "estimate", "propose", "project", "potential" or similar words suggesting future outcomes or statements regarding future performance and outlook. Readers are cautioned that assumptions used in the preparation of such information may prove to be incorrect. Events or circumstances may cause actual results to differ materially from those predicted as a result of numerous known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in these forward-looking statements are reasonable, undue reliance should not be placed on them as actual results may differ materially from the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include risks and uncertainties identified under the headings "Risk Factors" in the Company's annual information form dated July 29, 2024 and other disclosure documents available on the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The forward-looking statements contained in this press release are made as of the date hereof, and the Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or revise any forward-looking statements or information, except as required by law.

The information contained within this announcement is deemed by the Company to constitute inside information as stipulated under the Market Abuse Regulation (EU) No. 596/2014 as it forms part of United Kingdom domestic law by virtue of the European Union (Withdrawal) Act 2018, as amended by virtue of the Market Abuse (Amendment) (EU Exit) Regulations 2019.

This information is provided by RNS, the news service of the London Stock Exchange. RNS is approved by the Financial Conduct Authority to act as a Primary Information Provider in the United Kingdom. Terms and conditions relating to the use and distribution of this information may apply. For further information, please contact rns@lseg.com or visit www.rns.com .

SOURCE: Eco (Atlantic) Oil and Gas Ltd.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/oil-gas-and-energy/eco-atlantic-oil-and-gas-ltd.-q2-2026-results-and-sa-block-renamed-block-1-cbk-1104113
New commerce media benchmark assesses maturity across key verticals, identifying key challenges and delivering a playbook for growth

FORT WORTH, Texas, Nov. 19, 2025, the leading commerce media platform for enterprises, today released its commissioned commerce media benchmark study, All Commerce Media Playbook , conducted by Forrester Consulting, assessing maturity across key verticals, including retail, travel and hospitality, financial services, transportation and logistics, real estate and home services, QSR and automotive. The findings reveal that while 42% of respondents describe their commerce media operations as operationalized or fully advanced, only 13% meet the criteria for "trailblazers" across strategy, technology, measurement and operations, signalling the industry is just beginning to realize its full potential.

Commerce media is poised for tremendous growth, projected to exceed 1.3 trillion dollars by 2030. As commerce media matures, networks are at different points on their paths to scale, ranging from early pilots to enterprise-grade programs. The study provides a playbook for the next stage, helping each industry apply best practices from one another, identify gaps to maturity and accelerate toward scalable and truly connected commerce media networks.

The study identifies three maturity segments: Nascent (49%), companies early in their journey, typically running pilots with limited first-party data; Emerging (38%), companies building structure with defined revenue goals, early platform partnerships and growing cross-team coordination; and Trailblazers (13%), companies where commerce media is a core growth strategy, supported by connected tech stacks, AI-driven targeting and full-funnel measurement tied to business outcomes.

Retail and Financial Services are Nearing Trailblazer Status

Retail is the most mature sector with 22% classified as trailblazers, but most retailers lag in unifying their media ecosystems. Financial services networks are advanced in data maturity but conservative in activation. With 26% stating they offer full-funnel commerce media, this strength reflects rigorous governance, more than full media readiness. Both sectors must improve data collaboration, automation and attribution to drive scalable growth.

Real Estate, QSR, Travel and Hospitality Show Strong Potential, But Many Still Lack Unified Systems

Real estate and home services have deep audience trust but need unified systems and automated workflows to monetize at scale. QSRs have world-class transaction and loyalty data but remain in early test-and-learn phases. Travel and hospitality excel in intent data but face fragmented systems and long conversion paths; only 8% currently qualify as trailblazers. These segments all have strong signals of intent and valuable data but are still early in their maturity.

Compared to nascent players, emerging segments have clearer revenue goals, early partnerships and increasing cross-functional collaboration, but, for many, operational complexity and measurement gaps need to be addressed to reach trailblazer status.

Automotive and Transportation Are Still in The Early Stages and Highly Fragmented, But Show Promise

Automotive networks are rich in data but limited by fragmented execution. Right now, only 3% qualify as trailblazers. Transportation and logistics companies have strong real-time data but require unified governance, automation and integration to scale. While both are considered nascent, they are primed for growth with key adjustments.

"The growth potential in commerce media is enormous, and unlocking it is a priority for businesses," said Nicholas Ward, president and co-founder of Koddi. "One of the most important insights in this study is how differently each vertical is maturing. Retail leads in media sophistication, while financial services lead in data. Both can offer insights that the rest of the industry can learn from. This benchmark gives businesses a clear map of where strengths exist and how to apply those learnings across sectors to accelerate growth."

Forrester surveyed 788 global decision-makers to benchmark maturity, identify operational barriers and map the road to scale. The full study, All Commerce Media Playbook, is available for download here .

About Koddi

Koddi is the leading retail and commerce media technology for enterprises. Leveraging AI and first-party data, Koddi builds retail and commerce media networks for the biggest companies in the world, including Kroger, Booking.com, Grubhub, Gopuff, Fanatics and Cars.com. With more than a decade of experience and powering billions of media spend, the company is leading the fast-growing rise of commerce and retail media. Koddi supplies technologies that empower retailers, marketplaces, online travel agencies and more to realize the $100 billion commerce media opportunity. For more information, please visit koddi.com .
The 2,000 m diamond drill program is designed to confirm and expand the Snegamook Uranium Deposit, where historical drilling intersected multiple broad zones of mineralization, including 0.974% U3O over 0.5 m.

Preparing an updated NI 43-101 compliant resource for the Snegamook deposit will be a priority for Azincourt.

The Harrier Project hosts over a dozen uranium mineralized zones, including surface samples returning up to 7.48% U3O, and >1% U3O in ten separate areas - demonstrating robust grade potential across the property.

With only 124 historical drill holes completed across a 49,400 ha land package, the project remains significantly underexplored.

Azincourt's 2025 field program validated past drill sites and identified two new uranium showings at Boiteau Lake and east of Anomaly 7, providing additional high-priority drill targets.

Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - AZINCOURT ENERGY CORP. (TSXV: AAZ) (OTCQB: AZURF) ("Azincourt" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that planning is underway for a diamond drilling program at the highly prospective Harrier Project in the Central Mineral Belt in Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada, that includes the Snegamook uranium deposit.

About the Harrier Project

Azincourt's Harrier Project covers 49,400 hectares over five distinct licence groups, representing one of the largest land positions in the Central Mineral Belt. The Harrier Project covers the Snegamook Uranium Deposit and straddles key uranium-bearing structural corridors directly adjacent to and on trend with Atha Energy's Moran Lake (9.6 Mlbs U3O and 11.8 Mlbs V2O5) and Anna Lake (4.9 Mlbs U3O) deposits, and Paladin Energy's Michelin deposit (127.7 million lbs U3O) - placing Azincourt at the center of a proven and growing uranium camp.

The Harrier Project, with over a dozen known uranium mineralization zones and surface rock samples grading up to 7.48% U3O (and >1.0% U3O in 10 distinct zones), offers a rare combination of grade, scale, and geological continuity. Notably, only 124 drill holes (19,851 metres total, over half of this on the former Snegamook project area) have ever been completed across the combined property - leaving ample opportunity for new discovery with modern methods.

2025 Summer Work Program

The introductory work program was completed in late August (News release dated Oct 1, 2025) consisting of helicopter supported reconnaissance of existing identified uranium occurrences and prospecting of previously identified radiometric anomalies. Eleven previously identified uranium showings and the Snegamook Deposit were visited by Azincourt's VP Exploration to get an understanding of the characteristic and settings of the uranium mineralization present on the property. Two new uranium showings were identified in outcrop in the Boiteau Lake area and in boulders and outcrop east of the Anomaly 7 area. Assay sample results are still pending for these areas.

In the Snegamook Deposit area, the location of the drill core from the 2007-2008 exploration programs was confirmed at the old camp site used by Silver Spruce Resources. Much of the core is in decent shape considering it has been exposed to the elements for almost 20 years. Several drill holes that intersected the Snegamook Deposit mineralization and Snegamook Southeast showing were examined and a few samples were collected to confirm uranium grades. Reconnaissance of the deposit area was undertaken to examine ground conditions for future drilling and examine the old drill pads for confirmation of hole numbers, locations, and hole orientation. Many drill pads were easily recognizable and marked with casings. Metal tagged wooden posts were present at many sites allowing easy confirmation of the hole numbers.

2026 Diamond Drilling Program

The diamond drilling program currently being planned will consist of approximately 2,000 m of drilling in 6-10 drill holes. It is anticipated that the program will commence once the snow melts and lakes are ice free. The majority of the drilling will be conducted on the Snegamook Deposit; however, a number of holes will target the Boiteau Lake area in preparation for a larger program to follow (see Figure 2 for location within the Harrier Project).

Snegamook Deposit

A high priority target for diamond drilling is the Snegamook Uranium Deposit, where drilling in 2007 and 2008 to follow up a radon gas anomaly identified uranium mineralization located 1.3 km along strike to the southeast of the Two Time Zone (Indicated and Inferred resource of 5.55 Mlb U3O8, Silver Spruce Resources, June 2008). 17 drill holes intersected a 20 to 50 m wide section of uranium bearing brecciated and altered monzodiorite with moderate to strong chlorite, hematite and carbonate alteration, the same geological setting as the Two Time Zone. (Figures 3 and 4)

A review of existing sample data for the Snegamook Deposit was completed. Of note is that the best grade is encountered in hole SN-08-06, at 0.974% U3O8 / 0.5 m and the deposit is still open to the southeast of this hole towards the Snegamook Southeast showing.

In 2008, a preliminary resource estimate for the Snegamook Zone was prepared by Silver Spruce Resources, however it was never finalized in a report or filed. Work to be conducted as part of the preliminary 2026 drill program will include:

Rehabilitate and examine drill core from the Snegamook Deposit at the Kanairiktok core storage.

Engage an independent QP to examine the available core and consult on additional drilling at the deposit as part of preparing a maiden resource estimate.

Twin key drill holes at the deposit to confirm historical mineralization.

Conduct additional drilling to expand the size of the existing deposit.

Diamond drilling and preparing an updated NI 43-101 compliant resource for this deposit will be a priority for Azincourt.

"We are excited to commence drilling in Labrador. There is no shortage of drill ready targets located on the Harrier Project," commented Trevor Perkins, Azincourt Energy's VP of Exploration. "Our priority is to confirm the historical results and begin an expansion of the Snegamook Deposit in preparation for a preliminary resource estimate for the deposit. At the same time, we want to advance other targets on the property to unlock the value this property contains," continued Mr. Perkins.

Figure 1: Azincourt land position overlain on the geology of the Central Mineral Belt, Labrador, Canada

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6137/275100_a9d6ab9ab4ff9a4d_002full.jpg

Figure 2: Azincourt's Harrier Project.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6137/275100_a9d6ab9ab4ff9a4d_003full.jpg

Figure 3: Snegamook and Two-Time Zone mineralization map

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6137/275100_a9d6ab9ab4ff9a4d_004full.jpg

Figure 4: Snegamook Deposit Historical Drilling Map.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/6137/275100_a9d6ab9ab4ff9a4d_005full.jpg

About the Central Mineral Belt

Labrador's Central Mineral Belt ("CMB") is one of Canada's most underexplored yet highly prospective uranium regions. Known for its numerous uranium and base metal deposits and showings, the CMB has seen renewed interest due to growing global demand for secure, domestic uranium supply as countries aim to increase nuclear power capacity to meet net-zero emissions goals.

The CMB hosts multiple large-scale uranium discoveries, including Paladin Energy's Michelin Uranium Project (127.7 million lbs U3O), the Moran Lake C Deposit (historical resource of 9.6 Mlbs U3O and 11.8 Mlbs V2O5), and the Anna Lake Deposit (historical resource of 4.9 Mlbs U3O). These known resources demonstrate the Belt's exceptional uranium endowment - but vast areas remain underexplored, with modern techniques only recently being applied across the region.

With its stable jurisdiction, historical high-grade discoveries, and modern exploration momentum, the CMB is emerging as one of North America's most exciting uranium exploration corridors.

Qualified Person

The technical information in this news release has been prepared in accordance with the Canadian regulatory requirements set out in National Instrument 43-101 and reviewed and approved on behalf of the Company by C. Trevor Perkins, P.Geo., Vice President, Exploration of Azincourt Energy, and a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101.

About Azincourt Energy Corp.

Azincourt is a Canadian-based resource company specializing in the strategic acquisition, exploration, and development of alternative energy/fuel projects, including uranium, lithium, and other critical clean energy elements. The Company is currently active at its East Preston uranium project located in the Athabasca Basin, Saskatchewan, and its Snegamook and Harrier uranium projects, located in the Central Mining Belt of Labrador.

*The historical results, interpretation and drill intersections described here in have not been verified and are extracted from news releases issued by Silver Spruce Resources Inc on April 24, 2008, and August 12, 2008, as well as annual Management Discussion and Analysis documents filed on www.sedarplus.ca, and Koba Resources Limited on April 11, 2024, and August 20, 2024, which can be found at https://kobaresources.com/investors/asx-announcements/. The Company has not completed sufficient work to confirm and validate any of the historical data contained in this news release. The Company considers the historical work a reliable indication of the potential of the Harrier Project and the information may be of assistance to readers.

The information on the Michelin, Morin Lake C, and Anna Deposits has been extracted from the websites and investor presentations of Paladin Energy Limited and Atha Energy Corp.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF AZINCOURT ENERGY CORP.

"Alex Klenman"

Alex Klenman, President & CEO

Cautionary Statement Regarding Forward-Looking Statements

This news release may contain certain "Forward-Looking Statements" within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and applicable Canadian securities laws. When or if used in this news release, the words "anticipate", "believe", "estimate", "expect", "target, "plan", "forecast", "may", "schedule" and similar words or expressions identify forward-looking statements or information. Such statements represent the Company's current views with respect to future events and are necessarily based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the Company, are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive, political, and social risks, contingencies and uncertainties. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause results, performance, or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements or information to reflect changes in assumptions or changes in circumstances or any other events affecting such statements and information other than as required by applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its regulation services provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275100

SOURCE: Azincourt Energy Corp.
Montreal, Quebec--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Defence Therapeutics Inc. (CSE: DTC) (FSE: DTC) (OTCQB: DTCFF) ("Defence" or the "Company"), a leading biotechnology company pioneering next-generation antibody-drug conjugate ("ADC"), is pleased to announce a major step forward in the fight against cancer that goes beyond the ADCs current limitations.

Following successful presentations and meetings at the World ADC Conference in San Diego with ADC companies as well as with industry leaders and pioneers at CPHI in Frankfurt, Defence is moving forward with the strategy to become a supplier of its Accum platform technology to ADC companies struggling with dosing and toxicity as well as to improve the drug delivery precision to cancer cells more effectively for the benefit of cancer patients.

"Many pharmaceuticals and biotech companies have ADCs on the market or in development. A lot of these companies are facing the same challenge, their ADC being toxic for the patients at therapeutic dose. Defence's Accum technology can universally enhance the potency of any ADCs, reducing their toxicity, while retaining their epitope selectivity and tumor targeting," said Dr. Maxime Parisotto, Chief Scientific Officer at Defence Therapeutics.

Defence has completed studies confirming its ability to enhance ADCs potency. The most recent comparative study, in mouse xenograft models of HER2-positive breast cancer (JIMT-1 cells), demonstrated a ~20-fold higher anti-tumor efficacy with Accum-Kadcyla than Kadcyla alone when administered at the same dose (0.5 mg/kg). The tumor growth significantly halted in the Accum-Kadcyla-treated group, resulting in a consistent and near-complete response in 90% of the mice while Kadcyla alone at the same dose (0.5 mg/kg) had no effective results on inhibiting tumor growth (see November 4, 2025 press release).

Defence is engaging with ADC companies to transform the ADC cancer therapies with its unique proprietary Accum technology platform to be used with any antibodies and on any indications. Defence's technology and team are in place to deliver the strategy and build an ADC drug delivery powerhouse.

About Defence:

Defence Therapeutics is a publicly-traded biotechnology company developing and engineering the next generation of ADC products using its proprietary platform. The core of Defence Therapeutics platform is the ACCUM technology, which enables precision delivery of ADCs in their intact form to target cells. As a result, increased efficacy and potency can be reached against cancer.

Cautionary Statement Regarding "Forward-Looking" Information

This release includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements". All statements in this release, other than statements of historical facts, that address events or developments that the Company expects to occur, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and are generally, but not always, identified by the words "expects", "plans", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "projects", "potential" and similar expressions, or that events or conditions "will", "would", "may", "could" or "should" occur. Although the Company believes the expectations expressed in such forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements. Factors that could cause the actual results to differ materially from those in forward-looking statements include regulatory actions, market prices, and continued availability of capital and financing, and general economic, market or business conditions. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the beliefs, estimates and opinions of the Company's management on the date the statements are made. Except as required by applicable securities laws, the Company undertakes no obligation to update these forward-looking statements in the event that management's beliefs, estimates or opinions, or other factors, should change.

Neither the CSE nor its market regulator, as that term is defined in the policies of the CSE, accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275070

SOURCE: Defence Therapeutics Inc.
BitGo, the digital asset infrastructure company, today announced its partnership with Deutsche Digital Assets GmbH ("DDA"), a leading European crypto asset manager, to provide institutional-grade custody and staking for the newly launched Safello Bittensor Staked TAO ETP (ISIN: DE000A4APQY4; WKN: A4APQY, Ticker: STAO), which began trading today on the SIX Swiss Exchange.

Developed by DDA in collaboration with Safello, the Safello Bittensor Staked TAO ETP offers investors a simple, regulated, and secure way to gain exposure to Bittensor (TAO) a decentralized blockchain-based protocol that functions as a global, tokenized marketplace for machine intelligence.

"The collaboration with Deutsche Digital Assets marks another important step in BitGo's mission to secure the digital asset economy," said Mike Belshe, CEO and Co-Founder of BitGo. "By providing regulated custody and staking for innovative assets like TAO, we're supporting the growth of decentralized AI while enabling institutional investors to participate in this new frontier safely."

As the appointed digital asset custodian, BitGo Europe GmbH, regulated under BaFin, holds 100% of the underlying TAO in fully segregated cold storage and manages staking operations. Operating under Germany's strict regulatory framework, BitGo provides institutional clients with multi-signature wallet technology, comprehensive compliance standards, and secure staking infrastructure designed for scalability and resilience.

"Partnering with BitGo ensures that investors in our products benefit from the highest standards of custody and staking infrastructure," said Maximilian Lautenschlager, CEO and Founder of Deutsche Digital Assets. "The Safello Bittensor Staked TAO ETP marks an important step in connecting decentralized AI to traditional financial markets under a regulated, institutional-grade framework."

Through its European operations, BitGo continues to strengthen its international leadership position as the trusted partner for asset managers, issuers, and institutional investors seeking regulated, secure access to digital assets within ETPs and fund structures. On a global scale, BitGo enables secure institutional participation in emerging blockchain ecosystems such as Bittensor, which unites artificial intelligence and decentralized computing to drive the next evolution of the digital asset economy.

About BitGo

BitGo is the digital asset infrastructure company, delivering custody, wallets, staking, trading, financing, and settlement services from regulated cold storage. Since our founding in 2013, BitGo has been focused on accelerating the transition of the financial system to a digital asset economy. With a global presence and multiple regulated entities, BitGo serves thousands of institutions, including many of the industry's top brands, exchanges, and platforms, and millions of investors.

About Deutsche Digital Assets

Established in 2017, Deutsche Digital Assets GmbH (collectively with its subsidiaries called "DDA") is a German crypto and digital asset manager that serves as a trusted gateway for investors seeking exposure to crypto assets. DDA, through various subsidiaries, offers a menu of crypto investment products and solutions, ranging from passive to actively managed, as well as financial product white-labeling services for asset managers. By leveraging traditional financial products, DDA provides investors with familiar access to a range of crypto asset ETPs and quantitative strategies, making crypto and digital asset acquisition as easy as buying a stock.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119414043/en/

Contacts:

Media

press@bitgo.com
SUNNYVALE, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- FutureDial, the global leader in mobile device processing automation, announced today the launch of new Global Solution Centers in Europe and Asia, following recognition as the 2025 Mobile Disrupt Innovation Award winner. These new facilities mirror the company's successful automation labs in Dallas, Texas, and Sunnyvale, California, and provide customers worldwide with direct access to FutureDial's cutting-edge automation technologies and solution design capabilities.

Extending Leadership Through Experience and Scale

With more than 420 million devices processed and decades of operational expertise, FutureDial has unmatched experience across the device processing industry. The new Solution Centers will allow customers to see automation in action, gain hands-on experience with FutureDial's SMART Receive, SMART Test, and SMART Grade solutions, learn how AI can be harnessed to optimize operations, and collaborate directly with FutureDial experts to design and run real-world tests and process flows using their own devices.

"No one in this industry has the depth or breadth of experience that FutureDial brings," said Frank Harbist, CEO at FutureDial. "Our goal is to give customers the ability to touch, test, and truly understand how software, AI-enabled automation, and information management can transform their operations, because we've lived that journey with hundreds of customers worldwide."

Customer Success Through a Solution Orientation

Many of FutureDial's customers have evolved with the company, starting with software-only solutions and progressing to fully automated workflows. These customers have seen dramatic improvements in speed, accuracy, and cost efficiency, transforming their reverse logistics operations from manual to modernized. All FutureDial automation solutions are built to deliver real-time reporting, live performance insights, and seamless integration with customers' existing WMS and ERP systems. These data-driven insights empower customers to track throughput, yield, and performance metrics across multiple facilities, improving operational efficiency and decision-making at scale.

Global Vision: Automation Without Borders

The continued expansion into Europe and Asia marks the next phase of FutureDial's mission to make automation accessible to every device processor, refurbisher, and logistics provider worldwide. FutureDial Global Solution Centers will serve as hubs for innovation, collaboration, and learning, helping customers identify new opportunities for automation and optimize their operations for greater speed, accuracy, and profitability.

"We're creating places where customers can not only see automation but experience it firsthand," said Harbist. "Our leadership isn't just in technology; it's in helping customers take the journey from software to full automation with confidence. The Solution Center experience proves to clients that FutureDial software, automation, AI-enablement, and information tools will immediately deliver ROI and will grow flexibly as the client does."

FutureDial's newest Solution Centers will be in Germany and Japan, with customer engagement capabilities rolling out over the next several months and fully operational in early 2026. In Germany, FutureDial is partnering with DIS-CONNECT, GmbH, a regional leader in the connected devices lifecycle management ecosystem, to staff and equip its European Solution Center. In Japan, FutureDial will create and deploy Solution Center expertise tailored for the Japanese and Asian markets.

"We at DIS-CONNECT are extremely proud to support FutureDial's expansion into Germany," said Georg Dis, CEO and Founder of DIS-CONNECT GmbH. "FutureDial's commitment to quality and innovation sets the standard in the industry, and together we're delivering next-generation automation and intelligence to customers through our European Solution Center. DIS-CONNECT's Service Solutions, AI Decision Matrix, and FutureDial's automation systems are revolutionizing the market in powerful new ways."

About FutureDial

FutureDial provides intelligent AI-driven automation and software solutions for device processors, logistics providers, and refurbishers worldwide. The company's suite of SMART automation technologies helps customers accelerate processing, improve accuracy, and reduce costs across every stage of the device lifecycle.

FutureDial by the numbers

Over 420 million devices processed globally

25+ years serving OEMs, carriers, and logistics providers

Global footprint across North America, Europe, and Asia

Real-time automation data across testing, grading, and receiving workflows

Contact: Brad Treese, 415-623-8000, pr@futuredial.com

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Press Release

Eviden to manage the Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection Polyalert system

Polyalert, Switzerland's national alert and warning system developed by Eviden will leverage the company's managed services expertise to remain at the forefront of technology

Zurich, Switzerland - Paris, France - November 19, 2025 - Eviden, the Atos Groupproduct brand leading in advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems, and Vision AI, today announces that it has been awarded a contract extension by the Swiss Federal Office for Civil Protection (FOCP). The agreement, valid until 2031 and extendable until 2035, covers the maintenance and regular upgrade of Polyalert, Switzerland's critical information system for alerting the population in the event of major incidents such as extreme weather phenomenon, environmental disasters or industrial accidents. This extension underscores Eviden's technological expertise and ability to continuously adapt Polyalert to FOCP's evolving needs.

Designed and developed by Eviden and operational since 2016, Polyalert is the central system enabling rapid, consistent notifications across multiple channels in German, French, Italian and English. It allows the alerting manager to select the most appropriate channels for each situation and forms a key component of Switzerland's multichannel alerting strategy.

Polyalert remotely activates the nationwide network of approximately 5,000 sirens using the Polycom national public safety radio network and is also connected to the Alertswissmobile app and website, helping citizens plan and stay safe during emergencies. Eviden engineered Polyalert as a highly redundant, cyber-secure system that operates independently of internet or mobile networks.

Eviden's operational support and maintenance services will ensure system resilience, continuous modernization, and compliance with FOCP's requirements, relying on advanced methodologies and best practices in managed services.

Martin Thuring, Switzerland Head of Homeland Security, Eviden, Atos Group, said: "This contract extension is a strong recognition of our deep understanding of FOCP's requirements and our long-term commitment to supporting Switzerland with modular, scalable mission-critical systems to keep its population safe."

As a key supplier of the public safety ecosystem in Switzerland, Eviden is also the major solution provider and integrator of Polycom, the nationwide secure radio network for rescue and security authorities and organizations (BORS). Polycom enables seamless radio communication within and between border guards, police, fire brigades, ambulances, civil protection, and military support units.

About Eviden's expertise in homeland security

With 30 years of experience in homeland security, Eviden delivers digital and communication systems for civil protection and law enforcement. They combine 4G/5G critical communications, emergency management, computer vision, signals intelligence, data analytics, AI and cybersecurity to safeguard citizens in urban areas, borders, major events, and critical sites.

For more information, please visit Eviden's website.

***

About Eviden

Eviden is the Atos Group brand for hardware and software products with c.  1 billion in revenue, operating in 36 countries and comprising four business units: advanced computing, cybersecurity products, mission-critical systems and vision AI. As a next-generation technology leader, Eviden offers a unique combination of hardware and software technologies for businesses, public sector and defense organizations and research institutions, helping them to create value out of their data. Bringing together more than 4,500 world-class talents and holding more than 2,100 patents, Eviden provides a strong portfolio of innovative and eco-efficient solutions in AI, computing, security, data and applications.

About Atos Group

Atos Group is a global leader in digital transformation with c. 67,000 employees and annual revenue of c. 10 billion, operating in 61 countries under two brands - Atos for services and Eviden for products. European number one in cybersecurity, cloud and high performance computing, Atos Group is committed to a secure and decarbonized future and provides tailored AI-powered, end-to-end solutions for all industries. Atos Group is the brand under which Atos SE (Societas Europaea) operates. Atos SE is listed on Euronext Paris.

The purpose of Atos Groupis to help design the future of the information space. Its expertise and services support the development of knowledge, education and research in a multicultural approach and contribute to the development of scientific and technological excellence. Across the world, the Group enables its customers and employees, and members of societies at large to live, work and develop sustainably, in a safe and secure information space.

Press contacts

Global PR team: Isabelle Grange | isabelle.grange@atos.net | +33 (0)6 64 56 74 88

Swiss PR team: Alice Yates | alice.yates@atos.net

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ABU DHABI, UAE, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Forward Global , the international risk and reputation management advisory firm with offices in Paris, Brussels, London, Washington D.C., New York, Miami, Los Angeles and Abidjan, is announcing the launch of its new subsidiary in Abu Dhabi, in partnership with H.E. Sheikh Khalifa Khalid Ahmad Hamed Al Hamed and Ms Dolly Tabet, CEO of Royal Diamond Group.

The Abu Dhabi branch will deliver the company's core expertise in global strategic communications and risk management, equipping clients with the tools and solutions needed to protect and enhance their influence and anticipate risks. Forward Global Abu Dhabi will offer services spanning crisis and disputes advisory, public relations and government affairs, regulatory and geopolitical risk matters, digital reputation and thought leadership, as well as investigations and due diligence expertise.

"As Abu Dhabi emerges as 'The Capital of Capital' and an increasingly powerful financial center, our opening here feels not only natural, but much needed: it will enable us to better serve clients in the region and contribute to the dynamism of the UAE and GCC economies", said Matthieu Creux, CEO, Forward Global.

Forward Global Partner Jean Tillinac, appointed to lead the Abu Dhabi subsidiary, added: "Having operated in the region for many years, Forward Global is now reinforcing its presence through the creation of a dedicated regional hub. From Abu Dhabi, we will connect the Gulf, the Middle East, Africa, and the West, leveraging the UAE's strategic position to further anchor the Forward Global brand in the GCC".

"Forward Global is a market leader with an outstanding client track record and unmatched capabilities blending risk mitigation and reputation management," said H.E. Sheikh Khalifa Khalid Ahmad Hamed Al Hamed. "We are delighted to welcome Forward to Abu Dhabi and confident that their expertise will deliver real value to institutions and leaders across the region."

The Abu Dhabi launch follows the company's recent partnership with the US's top lobbying firm Ballard partners and its expansion to New York, Miami and Los Angeles, with seasoned communications, public affairs and compliance leaders Marc Yaklofsky, Jose Mallea, Ashley Hansen and Sven Stumbauer joining the firm to further drive growth and diversify its offering.

Press contact:

Anna Novgorodova, Senior Consultant

anna.novgorodova@forwardglobal.com

+33767148645

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Leaders in data space technology are converging at the Gaia-X Summit, in Porto November 20-21, to address the imperative of interoperability within and across data spaces in the construction and real estate sectors. The main objective is to assess how data spaces can leverage the world's estimated $393 trillion in real estate assets. Achieving this involves exploring numerous use cases among the entire building lifecycle, from design to demolition, including construction, renovation and facility management operations, which creates a win-win situation for both industry and technology stakeholders.

In France, the construction and renovation market alone is estimated at 200 billion annually. Designed to address the sector's challenges, Digital TER-X is a technology demonstrator serving the construction and real estate use cases. Its relevance has been recognized, notably by being named in November 2025 Gaia-X Lighthouse Project, just one year after its Gaia-X Endorsed Project status, and receiving the 'Special Jury Prize' at the Caisse des Depots TechSprint program that aims at leveraging data sharing to support the ecological transition of territories and economic sectors in France.

Leveraging data space technology experts such as Dawex, Orange Business, Docaposte -the digital subsidiary of La Poste Group, and Sopra Steria, Digital TER-X illustrates how the French technological ecosystem has begun to work together to develop synergies and coordinate their efforts.

Digital TER-X implements Gaia-X de facto standards and complies with the Data Act and Data Governance ActAt the Gaia-X Summit in Porto to accelerate the response to the sector's challenges, European counterparts will meet to discuss establishing foundational interoperability mechanisms on data semantic and data transactions, based on European standards, that are necessary for creating a secure, trusted, and sovereign data space.

The Digital TER-X initiative is supported by construction and real estate leading organizations in France such as buildingSmart France evolving in the standardization process for data construction, and FPI, the French federation of real estate developers.

"Experience has shown that a centralized, non-dynamic database is doomed to fail." says Frank Hovorka, Technical and Innovation Director at FPI. "Creating a data space aligning with Gaia-X principles is critical because our ultimate goal-a functioning sectoral data space- relies on a robust and decentralized mechanism for data transaction."

"The Gaia-X standards provide an overarching framework for the construction standards package for data exchange and the standardization of contractual processes. We are driving a critical transition: moving from Human-readable specifications to precise, automation-ready Machine-readable specifications." says Christophe Castaing, Fellow at buildingSmart International

Through its TechSprint program, designed to provide operational and financial support during the pre-build phase in order to accelerate and secure emergence of this data space, the Caisse des Depots has spotted Digital TER-X as a technology demonstrator to test initial use cases and prove the value of the data space for the building real estate sector.

Digital TER-X will offer stakeholders of the building sector a turnkey technological solution, operational and scalable, state-of-the-art in interoperability and technological sovereignty, with products from available software publishers. This will enable building players to concentrate their efforts on designing governance models, business models and defining the list of use cases necessary to anticipate the commercial traction of the data space.

"The Digital TER-X technical demonstrator should allow us not only to explore the complementarities between technology players -such as Dawex, Docaposte, Orange Business and Sopra Steria- and their expertise, but also to initiate a shared dynamic for data spaces in France and Europe, fostering technological and economic sovereignty", explains Audrey Gortana Vallet, Program Director at Caisse des Depots

Digital TER-X will be showcased at the Gaia-X Summit in Porto, Portugal, on November 20 at 14h55 and November 21 at 14h07, on the Gaia-X Lighthouse Booth.

About Digital TER-X

Digital TER-X is a technology solution serving the Construction and Real Estate use cases, specifically designed to address the sector's challenges. Implementing Gaia-X de facto standards for the data transaction management, and ISO standards for construction, Digital TER-X aims to create a European framework for the Construction and Real Estate data spaces. It delivers a ready-to-use suite of services, managed by an orchestrator, establishing a data framework for Construction and Territories, which is particularly beneficial and essential to SMEs. Digital TER-X fulfills a crucial dual strategic and technical role within each country, enabling the development of use cases by leveraging its catalogued services. At the European level, it coordinates these services across national catalogues while maintaining regulatory compliance to the Data Act, Data Governance Act, and AI Act.

More information: digitalter-x.eu

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119158245/en/

Contacts:

Christophe Castaing press@digitalter-x.eu
With critical regulatory deadlines looming in Europe and U.S. policy shifts sowing widespread confusion, European employers face new challenges in managing key workplace issues-from artificial intelligence (AI) usage and inclusion, equity and diversity (IE&D) programmes to pay transparency and in-office work policies.

That's the topline takeaway from the 2025 European Employer Survey Report, released today by Littler, the world's largest employment and labour law practice representing management. The eighth annual survey was completed by more than 400 human resources executives, business leaders and in-house lawyers from across Europe, 64% of whom hold C-suite or leadership positions.

Regulatory Uncertainty Persists as Compliance Deadlines Loom

Next year, key provisions of the European Union (EU) AI Act impacting employers go into effect, along with new obligations under the EU Pay Transparency Directive (PTD). Despite these major regulatory changes on the horizon, the survey data shows that European employers may face readiness challenges.

For instance, just 18% of respondents say their organisations are very prepared to comply with the EU AI Act, while 20% indicate they are not at all prepared-the latter matching the proportion who said the same in Littler's 2024 survey.

"Our survey suggests that there is currently a lack of preparedness for the EU AI Act, which is a concern given the scale of the law's compliance obligations and the significant penalties for non-compliance," said Deborah Margolis, Littler Senior Counsel in the U.K. "It's more critical than ever that businesses identify their obligations, audit their current exposure, conduct training and assign a cross-functional task force to oversee these efforts."

Employers also showed limited progress when it comes to preparing for the PTD: Only 24% say their organisations are very prepared to comply with the law, compared with 21% in 2024. "With new obligations on the horizon in 2026 and 2027, now is the time for employers to take some fundamental steps in preparing for the PTD," said Nicola James, Littler Partner in the U.K. "That includes conducting an audit of current pay practices, stress testing your job architecture to understand to what extent it is based on gender neutral criteria, and determining how you will categorise which workers are doing work of equal value."

While slow progress on the part of national governments, which share regulatory responsibilities for these laws, could be hampering employers' ability to prepare, the survey finds that many organisations have yet to implement some core compliance preparations for either one. That includes conducting audits of pay practices and AI use cases and assigning internal task forces dedicated to these issues.

U.S. Policy Developments Impact European Employers

Across the pond, the Trump administration has initiated sweeping policy changes in areas like immigration and IE&D, and European employers are not immune to the effects. Of the approximately two-thirds of respondents that have U.S. operations and/or a U.S.-focused workforce strategy, a striking 75% say they have taken at least one step to update that strategy as a result of these policy developments-including cancelling or reducing business travel to the U.S. (25%) and reducing U.S. operations (25%).

"U.S. policies are creating significant hurdles for European employers with U.S. operations, many of whom must reassess not only employee travel plans but U.S.-based contracts, investments and growth opportunities," said Stephan C. Swinkels, Littler Partner and Co-Lead of the firm's Global Practice.

On the IE&D front, more than two-thirds (69%) of those with IE&D programmes say they are considering new or expanded rollbacks of these initiatives as a result of heightened scrutiny from the Trump administration. Additionally, 79% of those with U.S. operations are facing challenges in managing the divergent approaches to IE&D in the U.S. and Europe. On the latter point, differing regulatory approaches have created difficulties for employers as practices that may be scrutinised in the U.S. could be in conflict with workplace requirements in certain European jurisdictions that promote such practices.

Push for In-Office Work Picks Up

Meanwhile, the push to get workers back to the office continues. A majority of respondents (63%) whose organisations have positions that can be performed remotely say they have increased or are planning to increase the number of in-person workdays. Roughly a quarter of respondents have increased (11%) required in-person workdays to five days a week or are planning/considering doing so (15%). Yet even as employers push to bring employees back to the office, 73% agree that remote or hybrid work schedules are important for attracting the right talent.

"For European employers looking to increase their in-office work requirements, there are a host of factors to consider to identify the optimal approach and develop policies based on their individual needs," said Dr. Alexander Bartz, Littler Partner in Germany. "It is also important for employers to clearly document guidelines, expectations and potential consequences for non-compliance."

In addition to the above findings, the report delves into other hot-button issues facing European employers, while also spotlighting important differences among respondents from various countries and company sizes.

Download Littler's 2025 European Employer Survey Report

About Littler

With more than 1,800 labour and employment attorneys in offices around the world, Littler provides workplace solutions that are local, everywhere. Our diverse global team and proprietary technology foster a culture that celebrates original thinking, delivering groundbreaking innovation that prepares employers for what's happening today, and what's likely to happen tomorrow.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119656791/en/

Contacts:

Jen Klein

Littler

(213) 443-4245

jklein@littler.com

Tom McGinty

Littler

(213) 443-4293

TMcGinty@littler.com
BEIJING, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- As the art exhibition "The Road of White Porcelain - From China's Dehua to Italy's Gubbio" opened in the Umbrian hill town of Gubbio on November 14, Dehua's renowned white porcelain began a new chapter in Italy.

Located in central Fujian Province, Dehua is one of the birthplaces of Chinese ceramic culture. Wu Zhipu, head of Dehua County, said in an interview with Xinhua that Dehua is a millennium-old porcelain hub known for its refined white porcelain, while Gubbio is celebrated for its maiolica tradition and strengths in ceramic design, glaze research and contemporary artistic expression.

Wu noted that Chinese porcelain is displayed today in the Saint Mark's Basilica in Venice, with a popular folk belief suggesting that Marco Polo brought pieces from Dehua back to Europe. "This shared cultural memory has laid a unique foundation for renewed cooperation," he said.

This year marks the 55th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and Italy. "As the cultural exchanges are gaining momentum, we hope the 'Blanc de Chine: Dehua Porcelain' will shine more brightly in Europe," Wu said.

The exhibition presents 41 works by leading Dehua masters and intangible cultural heritage inheritors. The pieces showcase both classic "Chinese white" and modern aesthetic elements, creating a dialogue between Dehua's understated elegance and Gubbio's colorful traditions. Wu said this interplay highlights ceramics' historical role in Maritime Silk Road exchanges and contemporary cultural dialogue.

Ahead of the exhibition, Dehua and Gubbio signed a letter of intent to build a sister-city relationship. Wu believed the partnership will deepen cooperation in culture, industry and logistics, including a "dual-masters co-creation program" bringing together artisans from both sides.

According to Wu, Dehua is expanding both outbound and inbound exchanges to raise its profile in Italy. In the future, the county plans to participate in more major Italian design events, strengthen ties with local business networks and pursue the establishment of a "Blanc de Chine: Dehua Porcelain" center in Italy.

Linked by porcelain, Dehua and Gubbio are renewing a Silk Road bond for a new era, connecting ancient heritage with modern creativity and opening wider avenues for China-Italy cultural exchange.

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Building on the success of its 2021-2025 strategic plan, which quadrupled subscribers and delivered a 62-fold increase in Cash EBITDA, eDO presents its next phase of growth.

From this position of strength, the new multi-year plan targets over 13 million Prime members by 2030, driven by accelerated +15-20% annual growth (FY28-FY30).

Enhanced value proposition with the introduction of flexible monthly and quarterly subscription options, following successful tests and customer feedback showing higher NPS (+10%) and long-term value (+13%).

Plan to accelerate eDO's evolution into a global, diversified multi-product subscription, driven by investments in new products such as Rail and international expansion, targeting 66% of eDO volume from new areas by 2030 (up from 43%).

Strong financial position enables continued investment in growth while continuing shareholder returns, aiming to invest 100 million in share repurchases over the next 2 years.

eDreams ODIGEO (hereinafter, 'The Company' or 'eDO'), the world's leading travel subscription platform, today announced its new, highly ambitious long-term strategic roadmap.

Four years after unveiling its inaugural subscription-led strategy, in November 2021, and following its successful completion this year, the Company is now accelerating its next phase of growth. From a position of strength, the Company's new strategy, informed by extensive customer feedback and successful testing over a prolonged period of time, doubles down on the proven success of the Prime programme. Fuelled by strategic investments in product diversification, market expansion, and an enriched member experience, it is designed to scale the model further and faster to solidify eDO as a truly global travel subscription leader.

A multi-pillar strategy to fuel accelerated long-term growth

This new plan will accelerate the Company's evolution from its European, flight-focused origins into a truly global, multi-product travel subscription platform. To capture the substantial addressable market opportunity, eDO's new multi-pillar strategy is designed to drive its Prime member base to over 13 million by 2030, substantial growth from the current 7.7 million and 40% higher than the analyst consensus of 9.7 million.

This growth will be driven by significant business diversification, with a target for 66% of eDO volume to be driven by non-flight products and flight outside of the top 5 European markets by 2030 (up from 43% today). The strategy is built on several key pillars:

Product and proposition enhancement: A key evolution is the introduction of more flexible payment options for the annual subscription, such as monthly and quarterly instalments. This strategic move is backed by extensive testing, which confirms it delivers 13% higher long-term value (LTV), over 10% higher customer satisfaction (NPS), and an 8% uplift in conversion rates. Beyond making Prime more accessible to a broader market, these flexible payments are a key enabler for product expansion. The lower payment model is a perfect fit for new, high-frequency travel categories such as Rail, a significant and growing market valued at over 40 billion1. These initiatives will build upon Prime's already robust offering, which includes a full suite of products such as flights, hotels, dynamic packages, and car rentals, complemented by valued member features like the flexibility to cancel bookings for any reason and exclusive access to member-only deals.

Accelerated international expansion: eDO will accelerate its international expansion beyond its 10 Prime countries, targeting high-potential regions such as Latin America, Central Europe, and MEA. The Company has been testing its subscription product in several new markets, which are already demonstrating exceptional performance. These new test markets are achieving 28% higher household penetration in their first year and a 13% higher Prime attachment rate compared to the mature European top markets, as well as higher customer satisfaction (NPS). Based on these strong results, investment will now be focused on scaling a select group of these high-potential markets and further localising the offering to drive significant growth.

Deepening the AI competitive advantage: Finally, building on its long-standing leadership in Artificial Intelligence, eDO will increase investment to deepen that competitive advantage. The Company's proprietary AI platform, developed over more than a decade, is fuelled by industry-leading data, including insights from over 100 million daily searches and 100 Terabytes of data powering agentic applications every day. From this position of strength, where its algorithms already provide a hyper-personalised experience for millions of Prime members, the Company will develop further capabilities. Investment will notably leverage agentic AI capabilities as a key value-creating driver for the business.

Dana Dunne, Chief Executive Officer at eDreams ODIGEO, said: "When we launched our inaugural strategic roadmap as a subscription business in 2021, we laid out a bold vision to transform the travel experience through subscription. We delivered on all of our targets and achieved much more: a stronger, more profitable, and truly subscription-led business.

This new roadmap is the natural next step in our journey. It is informed by our members and designed to accelerate our leadership position. We are now doubling down on our proven model to scale faster and further, making strategic investments that will complete our transformation into a truly global, multi-product travel leader, enhance our value proposition and cement our leadership for years to come."

Financial Outlook

The new roadmap is designed to deliver strong growth, notably in the Company's primary performance indicator as a subscription business: the number of Prime members. Strategic investments will be made to accelerate long-term membership growth to a new, higher rate of 15-20% annually for fiscal years 2028 through 2030. eDO will deliver over 13 million members, which is 40% more than current market consensus of Prime members in 2030.

In the near term, the Company is entering a planned investment period, and its new financial outlook is shaped by two key factors. First, and the largest driver, is its planned strategic investment to accelerate long-term value. This includes, as detailed above, the strategic roll-out of monthly and quarterly payments, the acceleration of its international expansion, product diversification and scaling its AI leadership, all of which will naturally impact profitability in the short term as they are launched. Secondly, a conservative headwind assumption from recent instability in access to Ryanair content. Over the past 2 years, Ryanair has intensified its efforts to block travel agents. More recently, they have increased their blocking efforts affecting eDO, despite European High Court decisions confirming eDO's right to distribute Ryanair content. As a result of this specific volatility, the Company expects to grow its Prime member base by 600,000 members in the full fiscal year 2026.

Consequently, as a combined result of these factors, Cash EBITDA is expected to be 155 million euros for fiscal year 2026 and 115 million euros for fiscal year 2027. Following this transition phase, profitability is expected to rebound strongly, with Cash EBITDA projected to grow by more than 35% per annum from FY28 to FY30

The Company's strong financial position enables it to fund these growth initiatives while maintaining its commitment to shareholder returns, with plans to continue its share repurchase programmes with more than 100 million euros in buybacks over the next 2 years.

-ENDS-

1 Phocuswright; Total gross bookings of long-distance and regional rail travel

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119575498/en/

Contacts:

E: edreamspressoffice@instinctif.com

T: +(44)07879086840
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - FIRST ANDES SILVER LTD. (TSXV: FAS) (OTC Pink: MSLVF) (FSE: 9TZ0) ("First Andes" or the "Company") today outlined a 2025-2026 systematic property-wide exploration program to rapidly evaluate and advance the Company's 100%-owned Santas Gloria Project ("Santas Gloria" or the "Project"), located approximately 55 kilometers east of Lima, Peru.

Key Points Summary:

Santas Gloria hosts 23 mapped intermediate-sulphidation epithermal ("ISE") veins totaling more than 12 kilometres ("km") of strike, yet has never been subject to systematic modern exploration, underscoring its exceptional discovery potential;

Permitting for Phase 3 drilling, targeting the Tembladera and San Jorge vein systems (and potentially Maribel and Paquita) has commenced (see news release dated November 3, 2025);

First Andes' systematic 2025-2026 exploration program at Santas Gloria will comprise: High resolution WorldView-3 ("WV-3") spectral alteration mineral mapping (commenced) Property-wide soil sampling program across all 23 known veins (commenced) Follow-up mapping, channel and rock sampling at WV-3 and soil anomalies Ground Induced Polarization ("IP") program at newly defined drill target areas Drill permitting and subsequent drill testing (Phase 4);

WV-3 and soil sampling will commence in November, 2025: Final products for spectral alteration mineral mapping are expected in 5-6 weeks First half of property-wide soil sampling to be completed in February, 2026, with analytical results anticipated in March, 2026 Remaining soil samples to be collected following the wet season (April onwards), with analytical results expected in Q2, 2026;

Targeted mapping, channel and rock sampling to commence following the full receipt of soil assays and subsequent integration/interpretation of new exploration database (i.e. WV-3 data) to distill high-priority drill targets property-wide;

Gound IP geophysics will be utilized to rank and refine Phase 4 drill targets, and permitting of drill pad will be initiated immediately thereafter.

"Santas Gloria remains one of the most compelling underexplored silver districts in Peru, hosting 23 mapped ISE veins totaling over 12 kilometers of strike. Despite this endowment, the Project has never been systematically explored using industry-proven evaluation techniques, such as soil geochemistry, ground geophysics (IP) and high-resolution spectral alteration mineral mapping (WV-3)," stated Colin Smith, CEO and Director of First Andes Silver. "With Phase 3 drill permitting underway and a fully integrated 2025-2026 exploration program on deck, First Andes is taking the first truly integrated approach to vectoring into high-grade mineralization across the entire Property."

2025-2026 Santas Gloria Exploration Program

WorldView-3 Spectral Mapping (Figure 1)

First Andes Silver has initiated a 50 km property-wide WV-3 spectral mapping and interpretation program at Santas Gloria, marking a key first step in the Company's systematic, district-scale exploration strategy to evaluate all 23 mapped ISE veins, the majority of which have never been explored.

The WV-3 dataset will include:

2-m resolution spectral alteration products and 50-centimeter ("cm") resolution natural-colour imagery;

Detailed mapping of up to 12 alteration mineral maps, including key ISE pathfinders: Alunite, kaolinite, sericite, montmorillonite, chlorite, epidote, jarosite, hematite, goethite, opal/chalcedony, calcite, and iron oxides;

50 km 2 of high-resolution context images: Greyscale image (50-cm) Natural colour image (50-cm) Geology enhanced colour image (2-m) Vegetation intensity (2-m) SWIR enhanced image (2-m) Sabins composite image (2-m) Sultan composite image (2-m);

of high-resolution context images: Alteration Mapping Report, summarizing the alteration mineral processing results;

WV-3 satellite tasking has commenced, with data collection and imaging expected in 3 to 4 weeks, and final interpretations expected in 5 to 6 weeks.

All data will be processed and interpreted in collaboration with PhotoSat Information Ltd. of Vancouver, Canada, a global leader in spectral exploration. The resulting alteration and structural interpretations will be integrated with geological and geochemical datasets, including the planned property-wide soil sampling program, to identify new high-caliber drill targets for testing in 2026.





Figure 1: Plan map of the planned WV-3 alteration mineral mapping area at Santas Gloria.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10525/275075_7f05af9a149d98a0_002full.jpg

Property-Wide Soil Sampling (Figure 2)

Soil sampling represents one of the most powerful and cost-efficient methods for evaluating ISE systems by identifying halos of geochemical dispersion which typically envelop sulphide-bearing veins. Systematic soil sampling can delineate these halos through elevated concentrations of key pathfinder elements, such as Ag, Pb, Zn, As, and Sb, which may extend several hundred meters from the mineralized core.

Beyond direct metal anomalies, soil geochemistry can also define the broader hydrothermal alteration footprint, including sericite, kaolinite, and chlorite zones, through subtle shifts in major and trace element chemistry. When integrated with spectral, geological, and geophysical datasets, soil sampling becomes a powerful vectoring tool to refine, rank, and prioritize high-potential drill targets across the property.

The proposed soil sampling program at Santas Gloria has commenced, and is summarized as follows:

Designed to cover all 23 known veins property-wide, which collectively strike >12 km;

Sampling lines will be oriented north-south ("N-S"), and spaced 100 m apart;

Sample spacing along soil lines is 25 m, enabling the detection of narrow veins at surface;

N-S lines will extend ~200 m past the surficial trace of all 23 known veins;

Sampling program will be divided into two sampling campaigns (before and after wet season);

First campaign planned for November 2025 to February 2026 (all results by March 2026);

Second campaign planned for April 2026 to June 2026 (all results by July 2026);

All soil samples will be analyzed via 4-acid digestion and multi-element ICP-MS at ALS Laboratory in Lima, Peru.

The results of the property-wide soil sampling program will provide a comprehensive geochemical framework for the Santas Gloria district, enabling First Andes to delineate new, previously untested anomalies and refine the definition of known mineralized corridors. Integration of these results with WV-3 spectral data, detailed geological mapping, rock/channel sampling, and IP geophysics will allow the Company to systematically prioritize and advance the most prospective targets toward Phase 4 drilling, marking a major step forward in unlocking the full discovery potential of the Santas Gloria epithermal vein field.





Figure 2: Plan map of the planned soil sampling program at Santas Gloria. Previous results set out in the news release dated June 2, 2021.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10525/275075_7f05af9a149d98a0_003full.jpg

Targeted Follow-Up Exploration

Following integration of the WV-3 spectral and soil geochemical datasets, First Andes will undertake a focused follow-up field program to delineate and refine high-priority drill targets across Santas Gloria, including:

Geological and Structural Mapping Detailed 1:2,000 to 1:5,000 scale mapping at strongest anomalies Definition of vein orientations, and structural controls on mineralization Particular attention will be given to fault intersections, splays and dilational jogs;



Rock and Channel Sampling Targeted rock-chip and channel sampling will test anomalous Continuous channels to be collected across exposed veins and anomalies;



Ground IP Geophysics A ground IP survey will be completed across the most prospective zones Detection subsurface chargeability and resistivity anomalies (sulphide mineralization) Results will assist in modeling vein continuity and identifying potential blind targets.



The iterative integration of spectral, geochemical, geological and geophysical datasets will enable First Andes to confidently rank and advance the most promising targets toward Phase 4 drilling.

Qualified Person

Dr. Christopher Wilson, Ph.D., FAusIMM (CP), FSEG, FGS, a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Dr. Wilson serves as Chief Geologist of First Andes Silver Ltd. and is a shareholder of the Company.

About First Andes Silver Ltd.

First Andes Silver Ltd. is a British Columbia company that holds a 100% interest in the high-grade Santas Gloria silver property, located in a major mining district 55 km east of Lima, Peru. Santas Gloria has excellent established road access, and is situated within a well-known intermediate sulphidation epithermal belt, and hosts over 12 km of multiphase veins mapped at surface which had never been historically drilled or explored by modern techniques before 2024. First Andes' maiden diamond drill program last year reported high-grade silver grades on all drilled vein systems confirming silver endowment and warranting high priority follow-up drilling in 2025.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Company's limited operating history, ability to obtain sufficient financing to carry out its exploration programs and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275075

SOURCE: First Andes Silver Ltd.
EQS-News: United Terra Enterprises PLC / Key word(s): Bond

United Terra Enterprises PLC Announces Listing of USD 150 Million Senior Notes



19.11.2025 / 11:47 CET/CEST

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.





NOT FOR RELEASE, PUBLICATION OR DISTRIBUTION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY IN OR INTO THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA (OR FOR THE ACCOUNT OR BENEFIT OF, U.S. PERSONS (AS DEFINED IN REGULATION S UNDER THE U.S. SECURITIES ACT OF 1933)), OR ANY OTHER JURISDICTION WHERE TO DO SO WOULD BE UNLAWFUL OR WOULD BE SUBJECT TO LIMITATIONS United Terra Enterprises PLC Announces Listing of USD 150 Million Senior Notes Schaan Liechtenstein, November 19, 2025. United Terra Enterprises PLC ("UTP") announced today the listing of its USD 150 million senior notes due September 10, 2030 ("Notes") on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange. The Notes bear interest of 11.5% per annum which will be paid semi-annually on March 10 and September 10 to noteholders of record one business day prior to the relevant interest payment date during their term. The Notes have been assigned ISIN USH8969NAA12 and are traded electronically through the facilities of the Deutsche Borse, The Depository Trust Company, Euroclear and Clearstream Banking. The Notes were issued outside the United States to persons that are not U.S. persons as defined in Regulation S of the Securities Act of 1933 (the "Securities Act"). In addition, the Notes may not be offered, sold, delivered, or otherwise made available to any investor in any Member State of the European Economic Area that does not qualify as a qualified investor within the meaning of Art. 2 (e) Regulation (EU) 2017/1129 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 14 June 2017 ("Prospectus Regulation") except pursuant to an exemption from a requirement to publish a prospectus under the Prospectus Regulation. The Notes have not been and will not be registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, as amended or the securities laws of any other jurisdiction. The Notes are not rated by any rating agency. Neither the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, any state securities commission nor any other U.S. or non-U.S. securities authority, has approved or disapproved the Notes or passed upon or endorsed the merits of the offering of the Notes or the accuracy or adequacy of the offering memorandum. The offering memorandum has not been approved by any authority in its capacity as competent authority under the Prospectus Regulation or any other regulation. UTP engaged Abalone Capital Ltd and Countryserv International Inc. as Co-Dealers and Lead Managers for the Notes. For additional information, please contact Peter Krempin either via email info@unitedterra.enterprises or by telephone at +423 236 40 10. About United Terra Enterprises PLC United Terra Enterprises is an international energy company engaged in the upstream oil and gas sector and the transition to renewable energy. The company is focused on establishing a responsible balance between conventional energy sources and the protection of the environment. https://unitedterra.enterprises Forward-Looking Statements This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, about UTP and UTP's industry that involve substantial risks and uncertainties. All statements other than statements of historical facts contained in this press release, including statements regarding the expected closing of the offering of the Notes and the anticipated use of the net proceeds from the offering of the Notes, and effects thereof, are forward-looking statements. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements because they contain words such as "anticipate," "believe," "contemplate," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "going to," "intend," "may," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "target," "will," or "would" or the negative of these words or other similar terms or expressions. UTP cautions you that the foregoing may not include all of the forward-looking statements made in this press release. You should not rely on forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. UTP has based the forward-looking statements contained in this press release primarily on its current expectations and projections about future events and trends, including its financial outlook, macroeconomic uncertainty, and geo-political conflicts, that it believes may continue to affect UTP's business, financial condition, results of operations, and prospects. These forward-looking statements are subject to risks and uncertainties related to: UTP's financial performance; the ability to attain and sustain profitability; the ability to generate and sustain positive cash flow; the ability to attract and retain users, partners, and advertisers; competition and new market entrants; managing UTP's growth and future expenses; compliance with new laws, regulations, and executive actions; the ability to maintain, protect, and enhance 's intellectual property; the ability to succeed in existing and new market segments; the ability to attract and retain qualified team members and key personnel; the ability to repay or refinance outstanding debt, or to access additional financing; future acquisitions, divestitures, or investments; and the potential adverse impact of climate change, natural disasters, health epidemics, macroeconomic conditions, and war or other armed conflict, as well as risks, uncertainties, and other factors described in "Risk Factors" in UTP's offering memorandum. In addition, any forward-looking statements contained in this press release are based on assumptions that UTP believes to be reasonable as of this date. UTP undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Disclaimer This press release does not constitute or form part of any advertising, offer, recommendation or invitation to sell or issue, or any solicitation of any offer to purchase or subscribe for, any securities in any jurisdiction, nor shall part, or all, of this press release or its distribution form the basis of, or be relied on in connection with, any contract or investment decision in relation to any securities. This press release is not a prospectus. Any offers of the Notes will be made only by means of an offering memorandum regarding the offering of the Notes.



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SiC Systems, together with ORCA Computing, Novo Nordisk, and the Technical University of Denmark has won the prestigious Hyperion HPC Innovation Excellence Award for breakthrough research in AI and quantum computing.

The research shows how AI can be used to detect tiny faults in highly-valuable manufacturing processes, before they become expensive problems.

SiC Systems is now exploring a range of high-impact industrial applications for the technology.

NASHVILLE, TN / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Breakthrough research has made clear how AI and quantum computing can be used to identify tiny, otherwise undetectable faults in manufacturing processes. This means they can be mitigated before they become expensive problems to fix.

SiC Systems co-founders SiC Systems Seyed Soheil Monsouri and Christopher J. Savoie

L-R: Seyed Soheil Monsouri and Christopher J. Savoie

The research, conducted by SiC Systems, Inc. , ORCA Computing, Novo Nordisk, and the Technical University of Denmark has won the 2025 HPC Innovation Excellence Award, the world's most prestigious High Performance Computing prize.

The award-winning research utilized quantum computing to enhance traditional AI, enabling the team to create a high-resolution 'digital twin' of a biomanufacturing plant that accurately modeled normal operations in incredible detail. This allowed the AI to be able to detect minute defects in raw materials that can cost manufacturers millions of dollars in lost revenue.

The groundbreaking research shows that unsupervised AI, enhanced by quantum computing, can monitor complex systems without having any prior information about what faults look like. It also shows how quantum computers, even in their current early stages of maturity, can be put to practical use.

Dr. Christopher Savoie, Founder and CEO at SiC Systems, said:

"Winning the HPC Innovation Excellence Award is a true honor. It's a real validation of how much of a breakthrough our research is in showing how smarter monitoring can lead to more reliable manufacturing processes.

"We have shown that quantum computing is not an all-or-nothing future technology. It is already being pragmatically integrated to solve tangible problems today. By creating better synthetic data to overcome the scarcity of real-world failure examples, quantum-enhanced AI is sharpening the 'senses' of industrial monitoring systems."

Dr. Richard Murray, Co-Founder and CEO at ORCA Computing, said:

"This joint effort and the recognition is a testament to the value of cross-Atlantic collaboration between industry and academia to solve the world's most pressing challenges."

Dr. Kris Kaczmarek, Investment Director at QDNL Participations, said:

"This result, alongside the recent announcements from Google and Quantinuum, will be remembered as the moment we have stepped into the era of quantum advantage and we are incredibly proud to have backed the team that is making history."

Prof. Seyed Soheil Mansouri, Founder at SiC Systems and Associate Professor at the Technical University of Denmark, said:

"This is a major achievement for us within the process systems engineering domain to truly bridge scientific curiosity with real-world applications applied to biomanufacturing. We continue our efforts to demonstrate near term industrial applications of quantum computing and Agentic AI to bring them to the manufacturing floor".

SiC Systems was founded by Christopher J. Savoie-whose pioneering work with AI agents led to the assistants we know today in mobile devices, smart speakers and beyond-and Seyed Soheil Monsouri, Professor of Process Systems Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark (DTU), a pioneer of applying model-based tools to complex multi-scale dynamic systems including quantum computing to (bio and chemical) manufacturing applications. Prof Mansouri is the anchor author on the recent study leading to this award.

The company last month launched with a funding round led by QDNL Participations, with participation from Propagator Ventures, Plug and Play, and Wavepeak Ventures.

SiC Systems is now exploring use cases for its technology to enhance a range of complex industrial processes.

The results of the research were released publicly last month and can be accessed here in the paper Quantum enhanced ensemble GANs for anomaly detection in continuous biomanufacturing , by Rajiv Kailasanathan, William R Clements, Mohammad Reza Boskabadi, Shawn M. Gibford, Emmanouil Papadakis, Christopher J. Savoie and Seyed Soheil Mansouri.

SOURCE: SiC Systems, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/breakthrough-discovery-in-ai-and-quantum-computing-from-sic-syste-1104122
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Doubleview Gold Corp. (TSXV: DBG) (OTCQB: DBLVF) (FSE: 1D4) (the "Company" or "Doubleview") is pleased to announce that it has closed the second tranche of its previously announced non-brokered private placement (the "Private Placement") announced on November 7, 2025.

The second tranche consists of 2,016,286 units (the "Units") at a price of $0.70 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of $1,411,400. Each Unit consists of one common share (a "Share") and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one additional Share at a price of $1.00 for a period of 24 months from the date of issue, subject to an accelerated expiry provision whereby the Company may accelerate the expiry date if the volume-weighted average trading price of the Shares on the TSX Venture Exchange is $1.25 or greater for any ten (10) consecutive trading days.

Combined with the first tranche that closed on November 7, 2025, the Company has now raised total gross proceeds of $7,181,400 under the Private Placement.

Insider Participation and Related Party Transaction

A director of the Company participated in the second tranche by subscribing for 350,000 Units ($245,000), representing approximately 17.3% of the second tranche. This participation constitutes a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company is exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a), as the fair market value of the securities issued to the director does not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization.

In connection with the second tranche, the Company paid finder's fees to Research Capital Corporation consisting of $44,100 in cash and 63,000 non-transferable finder's warrants issued on the same terms as the Warrants forming part of the Units.

All securities issued pursuant to the second tranche, including securities issued as finder's fees, are subject to a statutory four-month and one-day hold period expiring March 19, 2026.

The Private Placement, including the insider participation described above, is subject to final acceptance of the TSX Venture Exchange.

Proceeds from the Private Placement will be used to advance the Company's exploration program on its British Columbia projects, particularly the polymetallic Hat Project located in northwestern British Columbia, and for general working capital purposes.

About Doubleview Gold Corp

A mineral resource exploration and development company is headquartered in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada. It is publicly traded on the TSX-Venture Exchange (TSXV: DBG), (OTCQB: DBLVF), (WKN: A1W038), and (FSE: 1D4). Doubleview focuses on identifying, acquiring, and financing precious and base metal exploration projects across North America, with a strong emphasis on British Columbia. The company enhances shareholder value through the acquisition and exploration of high-quality gold, copper, cobalt, scandium, and silver projects-collectively critical minerals-utilizing cutting-edge exploration techniques.

Doubleview's success is deeply rooted in the unwavering support of its long-term shareholders, supporters, and institutional investors. Their ongoing commitment has been instrumental in advancing the company's strategic initiatives. Doubleview looks forward to further collaborative growth and development and continues to welcome active participation from its valued stakeholders as the company expands its portfolio and strengthens its position in the critical minerals sector.

About the Hat Polymetallic Deposit

The Hat Deposit, located in northwestern British Columbia, is a polymetallic porphyry project with major resources of copper, gold, cobalt, and the potential for scandium. As one of the region's significant sources of critical minerals, the Hat deposit has undergone targeted exploration and development. The 0.2% CuEq cut-off resource estimate, as of the recently completed Mineral Resource Estimate and the Company's July 25, 2024, news release, is summarized below:



Open

Pit

Model

Hat



Resource Category Tonnage Average Grade Metal Content CuEq Cu Co Au Ag CuEq Cu Co Au Ag Mt % % % g/t g/t million

lb million

lb million

lb thousand oz thousand oz In Pit Indicated 150 0.408 0.221 0.008 0.19 0.42 1,353 733 28 929 2,045 Inferred 477 0.344 0.185 0.009 0.15 0.49 3,619 1,945 91 2,328 7,575

Scandium potential for the Hat Deposit is estimated to be 300 to 500 million tonnes at an average grade of 40 ppm (0.004%) Sc2O3.

For further details, please refer to the Company's July 25, 2024 news release.

Qualified Person:

Erik Ostensoe, P. Geo., a consulting geologist, and Doubleview's Qualified Person with respect to the Hat Project as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, has reviewed, and approved the written technical disclosure contained in the news release. He is not independent of Doubleview as he is a shareholder in the company.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Farshad Shirvani, President & Chief Executive Officer

NEITHER TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE NOR ITS REGULATION SERVICES PROVIDER (AS THAT TERM IS DEFINED IN THE POLICIES OF THE TSX VENTURE EXCHANGE) ACCEPTS RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS RELEASE.

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on assumptions of management, forecasts of future results, and estimates of amounts not yet determinable. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, are forward-looking statements and are based on predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives and assumptions made as of the date of this news release, including without limitation: the size of the Private Placement and other statements concerning the Private Placement; the anticipated use of proceeds from the Private Placement; the renunciation to the purchasers of FT Shares and timing thereof; the tax treatment of the FT Shares and the Company's plans regarding exploring its mineral exploration properties; anticipated results of geophysical drilling programs, geological interpretations and potential mineral recovery. Any statement that involves discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance (often but not always using phrases such as "expects", or "does not expect", "is expected", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "plans", "budget", "scheduled", "forecasts", "estimates", "believes" or "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or stating that certain actions, events or results "may" or "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken to occur or be achieved) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements.

Forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties which could cause actual events or results to differ from those reflected in the forward-looking statements, including, without limitation: risks related to failure to obtain adequate funding on a timely basis and on acceptable terms; risks related to the outcome of legal proceedings; political and regulatory risks associated with mining and exploration; risks related to the maintenance of stock exchange listings; risks related to environmental regulation and liability; the potential for delays in exploration or development activities or the completion of feasibility studies; the uncertainty of profitability; risks and uncertainties relating to the interpretation of drill results, the geology, grade and continuity of mineral deposits; risks related to the inherent uncertainty of production and cost estimates and the potential for unexpected costs and expenses; results of prefeasibility and feasibility studies, and the possibility that future exploration, development or mining results will not be consistent with the Company's expectations; risks related to the gold price and other commodity price fluctuations; and other risks and uncertainties related to the Company's prospects, properties and business detailed elsewhere in the Company's disclosure record. Should one or more of these risks and uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described in forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned against attributing undue certainty or reliance on forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date hereof and the Company does not assume any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, other than as required by applicable law, to reflect new information, events or circumstances, or changes in management's estimates, projections or opinions. Actual events or results could differ materially from those anticipated in the forward-looking statements or from the Company's expectations or projections.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275145

SOURCE: Doubleview Gold Corp.
Vik (No.1) in Millahue, Chile is named The World's Best Vineyard 2025, sponsored by Resy & Tock, and The Best Vineyard in South America

(No.1) in Millahue, Chile is named The World's Best Vineyard 2025, sponsored by Resy & Tock, and The Best Vineyard in South America Ranking includes vineyards from 15 destinations across six continents and 11 new entries

Aperture Cellars (No.14) in Sonoma, USA, earns the Highest New Entry Award

(No.14) in Sonoma, USA, earns the Highest New Entry Award Highest Climber Award, sponsored by Jack's Creek, goes to Klein Constantia Wine Estate (No.6), Western Cape, South Africa, also awarded The Best Vineyard in Africa

(No.6), Western Cape, South Africa, also awarded The Best Vineyard in Africa The Best Vineyard in Europe is awarded to Schloss Johannisberg (No.2), Rheingau, Germany

(No.2), Rheingau, Germany Jordan Vineyard & Winery (No.13), Alexander Valley, USA, wins The Best Vineyard in North America

(No.13), Alexander Valley, USA, wins The Best Vineyard in North America The Best Vineyard in Asia is awarded to 98Wines (No.20), Yamanashi, Japan

(No.20), Yamanashi, Japan Cloudy Bay Vineyards (No.26), Marlborough, New Zealand earns The Best Vineyard in Australasia

MARGARET RIVER, Australia, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The world of wine came together in Margaret River, Western Australia this evening to celebrate and recognise The World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025, with Chile's Vik named The World's Best Vineyard, sponsored by Resy & Tock. The awards ceremony, hosted at Amelia Park Wines, honours the very best vineyard experiences from 15 destinations across six continents.

For the full 1-50 list, please see the attached graphic at the bottom of this release.

Vik, the Millahue Valley, Chile vineyard founded in 2006 by husband-and-wife duo Alexander and Carrie Vik, is named The World's Best Vineyard 2025, succeeding the 2024 winner, Bodegas de los Herederos del Marques de Riscal in Rioja, Spain, which now enjoys an elevated position in the Hall of Fame.

Ranked at No.2 in the 2024 list, Vik is a pioneering winery and luxury hotel located within the Millahue Valley, Chile. Perched on a hilltop with the Andes mountains in the distance, the estate spans a 4,450-hectare nature reserve, with 327 hectares dedicated to vineyards that are planted across 12 distinct microclimates. The winery combines innovative, sustainable viticulture with striking architectural features, such as its floating, structural roof of bronzed titanium, inspired by the work of Frank Gehry and Richard Serra. Offering immersive wine experiences and fine dining, guests can dine at Milla Milla, its signature glass-walled restaurant with a majestic wine cellar and views of the valley. Visitors can stay in one of 22 themed rooms or seven private bungalows and can enjoy experiences such as trekking and horseback riding. Known for its commitment to the environment and award-winning wines, Vik stands out for blending luxury, artistry and terroir-driven excellence.

Vik is followed in the ranking by Schloss Johannisberg (No.2) in Rheingau, Germany and Bodegas Ysios (No.3) in Rioja, Spain.

William Drew, Director of Content for The World's 50 Best Vineyards, comments: "We are thrilled to announce The World's 50 Best Vineyards 2025 list and honour Vik as The World's Best Vineyard, sponsored by Resy & Tock. The estate has shown exceptional dedication to creating immersive vineyard experiences, seamlessly blending innovative design within the stunning Millahue Valley landscape and offering interactive tastings to captivate every visitor. This year's list highlights the diversity and innovation of the vineyards shaping the global wine scene. It is a celebration of excellence, passion and the stories behind each vineyard, and we look forward to wine lovers around the world discovering these remarkable places."

Schloss Johannisberg, Rheingau, Germany is named The Best Vineyard in Europe and ranks No.2 on the list. Nestled in the Rheingau region, it is renowned as the world's first Riesling winery, with over 1,200 years of winemaking heritage. Visitors can embark on guided tours through the historic palace grounds as well as the impressive 11th-century subterranean cellar, the "Bibliotheca Subterranea".

Klein Constantia Wine Estate, Western Cape, South Africa is named The Best Vineyard in Africa and recipient of the Highest Climber Award, sponsored by Jack's Creek. Coming in at No.6 on this year's list, it has climbed 35 places since 2024. Situated in the Constantia Valley, Klein Constantia Wine Estate is famed for producing Vin de Constance. Guests can enjoy a scenic vineyard drive in an open-top Land Rover, followed by tastings of this iconic dessert wine. The estate also offers intimate cellar tours, providing insights into the winemaking process.

The Best Vineyard in North America goes to Jordan Vineyard & Winery, Alexander Valley, USA (No.13) offering immersive vineyard experiences set amid rolling hills, olive groves and sustainable vineyards. Guests can enjoy guided tours of the estate, panoramic viewpoints and curated food and wine pairings, featuring its signature Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay.

98Wines, Yamanashi, Japan wins The Best Vineyard in Asia (No.20). Located approximately 100 kilometres from Tokyo, 98Wines offers a multisensory vineyard experience. Visitors can hike through the scenic vineyards, savouring panoramic views of Mt. Fuji. The estate also features an adjacent brewery serving craft beer and a nearby forest hotel where guests can indulge in Japanese cuisine paired with local wines.

The Best Vineyard in Australasia is awarded to Cloudy Bay Vineyards, Marlborough, New Zealand (No.26), a new entry in this year's 1-50 list. In the renowned Marlborough region, Cloudy Bay Vineyards provides an immersive vineyard tour exploring diverse terroirs, followed by a tasting session at its Founders Cellar. Guests can enjoy a unique lunch at Jack's Raw Bar, experiencing the estate's wines alongside fresh, local produce.

Aperture Cellars, Sonoma, USA, earns the Highest New Entry Award (No.14), offering a curated "Site Series" experience. This private tour delves into the nuances of cool-climate vineyards, showcasing single-vineyard wines. The estate also provides bespoke tasting experiences, allowing guests to explore the artistry of winemaking in a serene setting.

Along with Aperture Cellars and Cloudy Bay Vineyards, a total of 11 vineyards make their debut onto the list this year, including Pago de Carraovejas (No.18) in Ribera del Duero, Spain; Perelada (No.22) in Catalonia, Spain; Maysara Winery (No.23) in Willamette Valley, USA; William Chris Vineyards (No.31) in Texas Hill Country, USA; Nyetimber (No.32) in West Sussex, England; Almaviva (No.34) in Maipo Valley, Chile; Kaiken Wines (No.36) in Mendoza, Argentina; Joseph Phelps Vineyards (No.37) in Napa Valley, USA; and Vina Cobos (No.49) in Mendoza, Argentina.

A further eight vineyards re-entered the 1-50 ranking, including Brooks Wine (No.35) in Willamette Valley, USA; Vina Santa Rita (No.41) in Maipo, Chile; Chateau de Berne (No.43) in Provence, France; Rippon (No.44) in Central Otago, New Zealand; Mission Hill Family Estate (No.45) in Okanagan Valley, Canada; Chateau Mercian Mariko Winery (No.46) in Nagano Prefecture, Japan; Henschke (No.47) in Eden Valley, Australia; and Champagne Taittinger (No.50) in Champagne, France.

The Voting Process

The World's 50 Best Vineyards list is compiled from the votes of more than 700 travel and wine tourism experts. The world is split into 20 geographical regions, each headed up by an acknowledged expert as its Academy Chair. Each region is responsible for recruiting 36 wine and travel professionals. Each member of the Voting Academy must vote for seven vineyards. There is no pre-determined checklist of criteria or predefined list to choose from - each vote is a nomination for a vineyard experience open to the public that they deem to be truly among the best in the world.

***

EDITOR'S NOTES:

1-50 List:

Position Vineyard Region 1 Vik Millahue 2 Schloss Johannisberg Rheingau 3 Bodegas Ysios Rioja 4 Bodega Garzon Maldonado 5 Chateau Smith Haut Lafitte Bordeaux 6 Klein Constantia Wine Estate Western Cape 7 Creation Hemel-en-Aarde 8 Maison Ruinart Champagne 9 Chateau D'Yquem Sauternes 10 Montes Colchagua Valley 11 Durigutti Family Winemakers Mendoza 12 Bodegas Salentein Mendoza 13 Jordan Vineyard & Winery Alexander Valley 14 Aperture Cellars Sonoma 15 Champagne Bollinger Champagne 16 Weingut Dr. Loosen Mosel 17 El Enemigo Mendoza 18 Pago De Carraovejas Ribera del Duero 19 Ceretto Piedmont 20 98Wines Yamanashi 21 Bodegas Tio Pepe (Gonzalez Byass) Jerez 22 Perelada Catalonia 23 Maysara Winery Willamette Valley 24 Vivanco Rioja 25 Gramona Alt Penedes 26 Cloudy Bay Vineyards Marlborough 27 Chateau Pape Clement Bordeaux 28 Gusbourne Kent 29 Riccitelli Wine Company Mendoza 30 Bodega Colome Salta 31 William Chris Vineyards Texas Hill Country 32 Nyetimber West Sussex 33 Chateau Heritage Bekaa Valley 34 Almaviva Maipo Valley 35 Brooks Wine Willamette Valley 36 Kaiken Wines Mendoza 37 Joseph Phelps Vineyards Napa Valley 38 Abadia Retuerta Castilla Y Leon 39 Robert Mondavi Winery Napa Valley 40 Viu Manent Colchagua Valley 41 Vina Santa Rita Maipo 42 Casas Del Bosque Casablanca Valley 43 Chateau de Berne Provence 44 Rippon Central Otago 45 Mission Hill Family Estate Okanagan Valley 46 Chateau Mercian Mariko Winery Nagano Prefecture 47 Henschke Eden Valley 48 Marques De Murrieta Estates & Wines Rioja 49 Vina Cobos Mendoza 50 Champagne Taittinger Champagne

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About The World's 50 Best Vineyards

The World's 50 Best Vineyards reflects the best winery and vineyard experiences around the globe and provides an annual snapshot of the opinions and experiences of more than 700 travel and wine tourism experts. Formerly known as the World's Best Vineyards, The World's 50 Best Vineyards will continue to develop into a world-class live event programme, culminating in a much-anticipated awards ceremony, attended by the most influential industry tastemakers, vineyard owners and media from around the world. The results and the awards are organised and published by William Reed.



About the host region: Tourism Western Australia (Tourism WA)

Tourism Western Australia (Tourism WA) is responsible for promoting Western Australia (WA) as an incredible holiday and events destination. Tourism WA's new 'Walking on a Dream' campaign is inspired by Western Australia's unique Aboriginal culture and is about inspiring holidaymakers to visit the region by showcasing its dreamlike qualities: stunning landscapes, supernatural colour contrasts, otherworldly phenomena, immersive connections with authentic characters and one-of-a-kind experiences that inspire a sense of unparalleled freedom and discovery. Find out more about Western Australia.



Our partners:

Tourism Western Australia (Tourism WA) - Official Host Destination Partner

American Express - Official Credit Card & Booking Platform Partner (Resy & Tock), sponsor of The World's Best Vineyard

Amelia Park Wines - Official Venue Host

Jack's Creek - Official Australian Premium Beef Partner, sponsor of the Highest Climber Award

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KEY HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025

Outstanding GMV Growth for Luxury Mytheresa of +13.5% vs. Q1 FY25 and Net Sales growth of +12.2% vs. Q1 FY25

of +13.5% vs. Q1 FY25 and Net Sales growth of +12.2% vs. Q1 FY25 Exceptional customer economics across all segments vs. Q1 FY25: Luxury Mytheresa +15.0% increase in GMV per top customer; Luxury NAP MRP increase in GMV per top customer of +4.0%; Off-price YOOX increase in GMV per top customer of +4.7%

vs. Q1 FY25: Luxury Mytheresa +15.0% increase in GMV per top customer; Luxury NAP MRP increase in GMV per top customer of +4.0%; Off-price YOOX increase in GMV per top customer of +4.7% Strong Increase of Average Order Value LTM across all segments vs. Q1 FY25: Luxury Mytheresa of +10.7% to now 797; Luxury NAP MRP of +15.5% to now 836; Off-price YOOX +18.0% to now 256

vs. Q1 FY25: Luxury Mytheresa of +10.7% to now 797; Luxury NAP MRP of +15.5% to now 836; Off-price YOOX +18.0% to now 256 Strong US Market Presence of LuxExperience with US Net Sales share of 31.6% of total business in Q1 FY26

with US Net Sales share of 31.6% of total business in Q1 FY26 Significantly increased Adjusted EBITDA profitability for Luxury Mytheresa with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.5%, up 210bps vs. Q1 FY25

for Luxury Mytheresa with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.5%, up 210bps vs. Q1 FY25 Transformation Plan for Group Well On Track: Cost-reduction action started across all ex-YNAP businesses. Agreement signed for sale of assets powering THE OUTNET which is expected to close in Q1 CY26

Cost-reduction action started across all ex-YNAP businesses. Agreement signed for sale of assets powering THE OUTNET which is expected to close in Q1 CY26 As Expected Only Moderate Top-line Decline of LuxExperience with -4.3% GMV and -4.2% Net Sales vs. Q1 FY25 on an illustrative basis at an Adjusted EBITDA margin of -5.0% in Q1 FY26

LuxExperience B.V. (NYSE:LUXE) (the "Company"), today announced its financial results for its first quarter of fiscal year 2026 ended September 30, 2025. The leading luxury multi-brand digital platform reported strong results and improvements across all three segments. Mytheresa demonstrated continued outstanding Net Sales growth and significantly increased Adjusted EBITDA profitability in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER clearly show the first signs of the commercial turnaround while YOOX off-price Net Sales continued to decline as expected due to the focus on the healthy core of the business.

Michael Kliger, Chief Executive Officer of LuxExperience, said, "I am very pleased with the strong results and improvements across all three segments. Mytheresa continues to demonstrate our unique ability to deliver strong growth and profitability despite ongoing macro headwinds. NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER clearly show signs of the commercial turnaround that will drive renewed growth and profitability after years of decline. In the off-price segment we follow the anticipated transformation and I am pleased that we have been off to a fast start here also.

Kliger continued, "LuxExperience is in the perfect position to benefit from the continued growth of digital luxury and the ongoing consolidation in the sector. We expect to become the one and only destination for luxury enthusiasts worldwide."

LUXEXPERIENCE FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 (on an illustrative basis)

GMV decline of -4.3% to 589.0 million in Q1 FY26 as compared to 615.3 million in the prior year period

Net Sales decrease of -4.2% to 557.2 million as compared to 581.8 million in the prior year quarter

Gross Profit Margin of 44.1%, increasing by +190bps

SG&A expenses decreased by -8.2% from Q1 FY 25 to Q1 FY 26, also including capitalized expenses in PY

Adjusted EBITDA of -28.1 million with and Adjusted EBITDA margin of -5.0%

LUXURY MYTHERESA FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025

GMV growth of +13.5% to 245.9 million in Q1 FY26 as compared to 216.6 million in the prior year period

Net Sales increase of +12.2% year-over-year to 226.3 million as compared to 201.7 million in Q1 FY25

Gross Profit margin of 44.6%, an increase of 70 BPs year-over-year

Adjusted EBITDA of 7.9 million vs. 2.9 million in Q1 FY25 and an Adjusted EBITDA margin of 3.5% in Q1 FY26 as compared to 1.4% in the prior year period

LUXURY NAP MRP FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 (on an illustrative basis)

GMV decline of -10.8% to 224.5 million in Q1 FY26 as compared to 251.7 million in the prior year period

Net Sales decrease of -10.8% year-over-year to 212.3 million as compared to 238.1 million in the prior year quarter

Gross Profit Margin expansion of +120bps to 47.8% in Q1 FY26

SG&A expenses decreased by -6.8% from Q4 of FY25 to Q1 FY26 and -9.7% from Q1 FY 25 to Q1 FY26, also including capitalized expenses in PY

Negative Adjusted EBITDA of -14.6 million in Q1 FY26 with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of -6.9%

OFF-PRICE YOOX FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS FOR THE FIRST QUARTER ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 2025 (on an illustrative basis)

GMV decline of -19.3% to 118.6 million in Q1 FY26 as compared to 147.0 million in the prior year period

Net Sales decrease of -16.6% to 118.6 million as compared to 142.1 million in the prior year quarter

Gross Profit Margin expansion of +390bps to 36.5% in Q1 FY26

SG&A expenses decreased by -15.5% from Q1 FY 25 to Q1 FY26, also including capitalized expenses in PY and despite re-allocated fixed costs from THE OUTNET to YOOX

Negative Adjusted EBITDA of -21.4 million in Q1 FY26 with an Adjusted EBITDA margin of -18.1%

GROUP KEY BUSINESS HIGHLIGHTS:

Group Level: Reorganization to new operating model almost completed. LuxExperience to focus off-price resources on its YOOX business and accelerate the overall transformation plan after sale of THE OUTNET

Reorganization to new operating model almost completed. LuxExperience to focus off-price resources on its YOOX business and accelerate the overall transformation plan after sale of THE OUTNET Luxury Mytheresa: Launch of exclusive capsule collections and pre-launches in collaboration with Brunello Cucinelli, Loewe, Moncler, Calvin Klein Collection, Saint Laurent, Max Mara, Zegna, God's True Cashmere and many more; Impactful Top Customer events and "money-can't-buy" experiences, including a NYFW celebration with Calvin Klein in New York, an intimate presentation and dinner with LOEWE at The Glass House in Connecticut, and a private dinner on stage at the Turin Opera House with Zegna

Launch of exclusive capsule collections and pre-launches in collaboration with Brunello Cucinelli, Loewe, Moncler, Calvin Klein Collection, Saint Laurent, Max Mara, Zegna, God's True Cashmere and many more; Impactful Top Customer events and "money-can't-buy" experiences, including a NYFW celebration with Calvin Klein in New York, an intimate presentation and dinner with LOEWE at The Glass House in Connecticut, and a private dinner on stage at the Turin Opera House with Zegna Luxury NAP MRP : Renewed focus on EIP events and exclusive brand collaborations including Nili Lotan, Chloe, Jimmy Choo, Aime Leon Dore for NET-A-PORTER and Enfants Riches Deprimes, Drakes, Aime Leon Dore and Brunello Cucinelli for MR PORTER

: Renewed focus on EIP events and exclusive brand collaborations including Nili Lotan, Chloe, Jimmy Choo, Aime Leon Dore for NET-A-PORTER and Enfants Riches Deprimes, Drakes, Aime Leon Dore and Brunello Cucinelli for MR PORTER Off-price YOOX: Agreement to sell the assets of THE OUTNET presenting a tailored solution for THE OUTNET to achieve its full potential under a renewed independent, stand-alone business model

SALE OF ASSETS POWERING THE OUTNET

On October 31, 2025, LuxExperience B.V. and The O Group LLC announced that they have entered into a binding agreement for LuxExperience to sell the set of assets powering THE OUTNET platform:

THE OUTNET Assets to be transferred will include the relevant brand rights, customer data, full inventory and the US distribution center as well as required work-force in the US and the UK employees

A Cash consideration of USD 30 million is paid for THE OUTNET Assets, which is subject to adjustment based on inventory levels at closing, and for a certain period after closing LuxExperience will provide certain operational and IT services all priced at cost level

LuxExperience will continue its commercial relationship with THE OUTNET also after closing of the transaction

Transaction is expected to enable THE OUTNET to achieve its full potential under a renewed independent, stand-alone business model

The divestment of THE OUTNET Assets allows LuxExperience to focus off-price resources on its YOOX business and accelerate the overall transformation plan in regard to an efficient infrastructure platform for NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER

Closing of the transaction is expected in Q1 CY26, subject to certain closing conditions, including customary regulatory approvals and payment of the purchase price, which is subject to adjustment based on inventory levels at closing

In our financial reporting, the off-price segment will be purely referred to the business of YOOX from now on, while THE OUTNET is classified as "discontinued operations" and is no longer considered part of LuxExperience's core financial performance.

UPDATED GUIDANCE

Therefore, LuxExperience now expects for FY26:

GMV 2.4 billion to 2.7 billion and

an Adjusted EBITDA margin between -2% to +1%

CONFERENCE CALL AND WEBCAST INFORMATION

LuxExperience expects to release first quarter of fiscal year 2026 financial results before the U.S. market open on November 19, 2025. A conference call to discuss its results will follow at 8:00am Eastern Time that same day.

Event: LuxExperience First Quarter Fiscal Year 2026 Earnings Conference Call

Event Date: November 19, 2025

Event Time: 8:00am ET

Webcast: Please follow the link

A webcast replay will be available on LuxExperience's investor relations website at investors.luxexperience.com

FORWARD LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended, including statements relating to financing activities; future sales, expenses, and profitability; future development and expected growth of our business and industry; our ability to execute our business model and our business strategy; having available sufficient cash and borrowing capacity to meet working capital, debt service and capital expenditure requirements for the next twelve months; and projected capital spending. In some cases, you can identify forward-looking statements by the following words: "anticipate," "believe," "continue," "could," "estimate," "expect," "intend," "may," "ongoing," "plan," "potential," "predict," "project," "should," "will," "would" or the negative of these terms or other comparable terminology, although not all forward-looking statements contain these words. These statements are only predictions. Actual events or results may differ materially from those stated or implied by these forward-looking statements. In evaluating these statements and our prospects, you should carefully consider the factors set forth below.

The risk that the completed YNAP acquisition and the post-acquisition integration could have an adverse effect on the ability of YNAP to retain customers and retain and hire key personnel and maintain relationships with their brand partners and customers and on their operating results and businesses generally; the risk that problems may arise in successfully integrating the businesses of YNAP and Mytheresa, which may result in the combined company not operating as effectively and efficiently as expected; the risk that the combined company may be unable to achieve cost-cutting synergies or that it may take longer than expected to achieve those synergies; LuxExperience's ability to effectively compete in a highly competitive industry; LuxExperience's ability to respond to consumer demands, spending and tastes; general economic conditions, including economic conditions resulting from deteriorating geopolitical and macroeconomic conditions, such as the recent global trade war that escalated after the U.S. imposed tariffs on countries across the globe, and the adoption of retaliatory tariffs by those countries, that may adversely impact consumer demand; LuxExperience's ability to acquire new customers and retain existing customers; consumers of luxury products may not choose to shop online in sufficient numbers; the volatility and difficulty in predicting the luxury fashion industry; LuxExperience's reliance on consumer discretionary spending; and LuxExperience's ability to maintain average order levels and other factors.

We undertake no obligation to update any forward-looking statements made in this press release to reflect events or circumstances after the date of this press release or to reflect new information or the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law.

The achievement or success of the matters covered by such forward-looking statements involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and assumptions. If any such risks or uncertainties materialize or if any of the assumptions prove incorrect, our results could differ materially from the results expressed or implied by the forward-looking statements we make.

You should not rely upon forward-looking statements as predictions of future events. Forward-looking statements represent our management's beliefs and assumptions only as of the date such statements are made.

Further information on these and other factors that could affect our financial results is included in filings we make with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") from time to time, including the section titled "Risk Factors" included in the Form 20-F filed on October 30, 2025. These documents are available on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov and on the SEC Filings section of the Investor Relations section of our website at: https://investors.luxexperience.com.

The acquisition of YOOX Net-A-Porter Group S.p.A. ("YNAP") (together with its subsidiaries, "YNAP Sub-Group") by LuxExperience was completed on April 23, 2025 ("YNAP Acquisition"). The results of YNAP are included within the consolidated financial statements of LuxExperience for the period beginning on the date of the acquisition through the end of the respective period presented and the results of Mytheresa are included for the entirety of all periods presented.

ABOUT NON-IFRS FINANCIAL MEASURES AND OPERATING METRICS

Our non-IFRS financial measures include:

Adjusted EBITDA is a non-IFRS financial measure that we calculate as net income before finance expense (net), taxes, and depreciation and amortization, adjusted to exclude the recognition/release of extraordinary inventory write down, other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses share-based compensation expense and one-off Intercompany recharges. Adjusted EBITDA Margin is a non-IFRS financial measure which is calculated in relation to net sales.

Illustrative key operating and financial metrics by segment are non-IFRS financial measures that we present by segment for each period and were prepared by combining the historical standalone statements of operations for each of legacy YNAP and Mytheresa. These measures are provided for illustrative purposes only and do not purport to represent what the actual consolidated results of operations or consolidated financial condition would have been had the acquisition actually occurred on the date indicated, nor do they purport to project the future consolidated results of operations or consolidated financial condition for any future period or as of any future date. In addition, these measures have not been prepared in accordance with Article 11 of Regulation S-X.

We are not able to forecast net income (loss) on a forward-looking basis without unreasonable efforts due to the high variability and difficulty in predicting certain items that affect net income (loss), including, but not limited to, Income taxes and Interest expense and, as a result, are unable to provide a reconciliation to forecasted Adjusted EBITDA.

Gross Merchandise Value (GMV) is an operative measure and means the total Euro value of orders processed. GMV is inclusive of merchandise value, shipping and duty. It is net of returns, value added taxes and cancellations. GMV does not represent revenue earned by us. We use GMV as an indicator for the usage of our platform that is not influenced by the mix of direct sales and commission sales. The indicators we use to monitor usage of our platform include, among others, active customers, total orders shipped and GMV.

SEGMENT REALIGNMENT

Effective for the first quarter ended September 30, 2025, LuxExperience is realigning its reportable segments to correspond with changes to its operating model to reflect its new management structure and organizational responsibilities following the acquisition of YNAP. As further described herein, LuxExperience's three new reportable segments are: Luxury Mytheresa, Luxury NAP MRP, and Off-price YOOX. THE OUTNET is classified as "discontinued operations" and is no longer considered part of our LuxExperience's core financial performance.

ABOUT LUXEXPERIENCE

LuxExperience is the leading digital, multi-brand luxury group and the online shopping destination for luxury enthusiasts worldwide. LuxExperience operates a portfolio of some of the most distinguished store brands in digital luxury and creates communities for luxury enthusiasts with unique digital and physical experiences. Mytheresa, NET-A-PORTER and MR PORTER, jointly comprising the luxury segments of LuxExperience, offer highly curated edits of the most prestigious luxury brands across the world, featuring womenswear, menswear, kidswear, fine jewelry watches, and lifestyle products. YOOX, which forms the off-price segment of LuxExperience, is the leading destination for multi-brand off-season online luxury shopping. The NYSE listed group operates worldwide.

For more information, please visit https://investors.luxexperience.com.

LuxExperience B.V.

Illustrative key operating and financial metrics by segment for the

three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2025

The following illustrative segment information for Luxury Mytheresa, Luxury NAP MRP and Off-Price YOOX is presented as if these segments had been included in LuxExperience Group's management reporting for the three months ended September 30, 2024. These segments were not presented in the Company's unaudited quarterly report for the three months ended September 30, 2024 as the YNAP Group was subsequently acquired on April 23, 2025, and therefore was not owned by the Company during the prior year comparative period presented. The following segment information should not be viewed as a substitute for LuxExperience Group's segment reporting. Further, the segment information presented here is not necessarily indicative of LuxExperience Group's results to be expected for any future periods.

THE OUTNET business under Off-Price segment has been classified as discontinued operations for the three months ended September 30, 2025. Therefore, the results of THE OUTNET business has been removed from the Off-Price segment for the three months ended September 30, 2024.

The following table illustrates our operating and financial metrics for Luxury MYTHERESA segment for the three months ended September 30, 2025:

Three months ended September 30, (in millions) (unaudited) 2024 2025 Change

in / BPs Gross Merchandise Value (GMV)(1) 216.6 245.9 13.5% Active customers (LTM in thousands)(2) 842 812 (3.6%) Total orders shipped (LTM in thousands)(2) 2,095 1,997 (4.7%) Average order value (LTM)(2) 720 797 10.7% Net sales 201.7 226.3 12.2% Gross profit 88.6 101.0 14.0% Gross profit margin(3) 43.9% 44.6% 70 BPs Adjusted EBITDA(4) 2.9 7.9 172.4% Adjusted EBITDA margin(3) 1.4% 3.5% 210 BPs

(1) Definition of GMV, Active customer and Total orders shipped can be found on page 34 in our quarterly report. (2) Active customers and total orders shipped are calculated based on orders shipped from our sites during the last twelve months (LTM) ended on the last day of the period presented. (3) As a percentage of net sales. (4) EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted Operating Income, adjusted net income are measures not defined under IFRS. For further information about how we calculate these measures and limitations of its use, see page 34.

The following table illustrates operating and financial metrics for Luxury NAP MRP segment for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2025:

Three months ended September 30, (in millions) (unaudited) 2024 2025 Change

in / BPs Gross Merchandise Value (GMV)(1) 251.7 224.5 (10.8%) Active customers (LTM in thousands)(2) 1,176 872 (25.9%) Total orders shipped (LTM in thousands)(2) 3,024 2,381 (21.3%) Average order value (LTM)(2) 724 836 15.5% Net sales 238.0 212.3 (10.8%) Gross profit 110.8 101.5 (8.4%) Gross profit margin(3) 46.6% 47.8% 120 BPs Adjusted EBITDA(4) 3.9 (14.6) (473.7%) Adjusted EBITDA margin(3) 1.6% (6.9%) (850) BPs

The following table illustrates operating and financial metrics for Off-Price YOOX segment for the three months ended September 30, 2024 and 2025:

Three months ended September 30, (in millions) (unaudited) 2024 2025 Change

in / BPs Gross Merchandise Value (GMV)(1) 147.0 118.6 (19.3%) Active customers (LTM in thousands)(2) 1,403 1,121 (20.1%) Total orders shipped (LTM in thousands)(2) 4,098 2,955 (27.9%) Average order value (LTM)(2) 217 256 18.0% Net sales 142.1 118.6 (16.6%) Gross profit 46.3 43.3 (6.4%) Gross profit margin(3) 32.6% 36.5% 390 BPs Adjusted EBITDA(4) (25.1) (21.4) (14.7%) Adjusted EBITDA margin(3) (17.7%) (18.1%) (40 BPs)

LuxExperience B.V.

Consolidated Financial Statements of LuxExperience Group

Below tables present consolidated Statements of Profit or Loss and Comprehensive Loss, Consolidated Statements of Financial Position, Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity and Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows of LuxExperience Group including YNAP Sub-Group being consolidated starting from the acquisition date of April 23, 2025.

Consolidated Statements of Profit or Loss and Comprehensive Loss (Amounts in millions, except share and per share data) Three Months Ended (in thousands) (unaudited) September 30,

2024 September 30,

2025 Net sales 201,701 573,501 Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization (113,067 (322,763 Gross profit 88,633 250,738 Shipping and payment cost (29,360 (84,660 Marketing expenses (24,992 (49,999 Selling, general and administrative expenses (56,013 (173,962 Depreciation and amortization (7,128 (11,607 Other expenses, net (1,177 (12,171 Operating loss (30,036 (81,660 Finance costs (1,221 (3,057 Finance income 1,952 Finance costs, net (1,221 (1,105 Loss before income taxes (31,257 (82,765 Income tax (expense) benefit 7,736 (2,569 Net loss from continuing operations (23,522 (85,335 Loss from discontinued operations (net of tax) (13,165 Net loss (23,522 (98,499 Cash Flow Hedge 1,035 (2,538 Income Taxes related to Cash Flow Hedge (289 708 Foreign currency translation (29 6,390 Other comprehensive income 717 4,560 Comprehensive loss (22,805 (93,939 Basic diluted earnings per share, - continuing operations (0.27 (0.61 Basic diluted earnings per share, - discontinued operations (0.00 (0.09 Basic diluted earnings per share, - total (0.27 (0.70 Weighted average ordinary shares outstanding (basic and diluted) in millions (1) 87.2 139.7

(1) In accordance with IAS 33, includes contingently issuable shares that are fully vested and can be converted at any time for no consideration. For further details, refer to note 15 in our quarterly report.

LuxExperience B.V.

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position (Amounts in millions) (in thousands) June 30,

2025 September 30, 2025

(unaudited) Assets Non-current assets Intangible assets and goodwill 156,731 156,466 Property and equipment 55,901 54,379 Right-of-use assets 201,131 173,906 Deferred tax assets 1,683 243 Other non-current assets 11,878 21,467 Total non-current assets 427,323 406,461 Current assets Inventories 1,019,539 1,017,764 Trade and other receivables 96,676 87,115 Other assets 134,766 128,829 Cash and cash equivalents 603,593 461,138 Assets classified as held for sale 36,435 Total current assets 1,854,574 1,731,280 Total assets 2,281,897 2,137,742 Shareholders' equity and liabilities Subscribed capital 2 2 Capital reserve 912,039 916,937 Retained earnings 457,192 358,542 Accumulated other comprehensive income (losses) (4,469 243 Total shareholders' equity 1,364,764 1,275,724 Non-current liabilities Provisions 4,484 5,561 Lease liabilities 176,718 152,441 Deferred income tax liabilities 11 167 Other non-current liabilities 364 253 Total non-current liabilities 181,578 158,421 Current liabilities Liabilities to banks 10,000 32,019 Tax liabilities 2,764 979 Lease liabilities 32,085 29,784 Contract liabilities 49,343 52,472 Trade and other payables 285,722 191,302 Other current liabilities 346,835 372,139 Current provisions 8,807 9,200 Liabilities associated with assets held for sale 15,701 Total current liabilities 735,555 703,596 Total liabilities 917,133 862,017 Total shareholders' equity and liabilities 2,281,897 2,137,742

LuxExperience B.V.

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Equity (Amounts in millions) (in thousands) Subscribed

capital Capital

reserve Retained

earnings

(losses) Hedging

reserve Foreign

currency

translation

reserve Total

shareholders'

equity Balance as of July 1, 2024 1 546,913 (112,767 1,496 435,643 Net loss (23,522 (23,522 Other comprehensive loss 746 (29 717 Comprehensive loss (23,522 746 (29 (22,805 Share-based compensation 4,495 4,495 Balance as of September 30, 2024 1 551,407 (136,289 746 1,467 417,333 (unaudited) Balance as of July 1, 2025 2 912,039 457,041 (4,317 1,364,764 Net loss (98,499 (98,499 Other comprehensive income (1,830 6,390 4,560 Comprehensive income (loss) (98,499 (1,830 6,390 (93,939 Share options exercised 1,367 1,367 Share-based compensation 3,531 3,531 Balance as of September 30, 2025 (unaudited) 2 916,937 358,542 (1,830 2,073 1,275,724

LuxExperience B.V.

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows (Amounts in millions) Three months ended September 30, (in thousands) (unaudited) 2024 2025 Net Loss (23,522 (98,499 Adjustments for Depreciation and amortization, impairment and asset disposals 7,128 12,826 Finance (income) costs, net 1,221 1,358 Share-based compensation 4,495 3,531 Income tax (benefit) expense (7,736 2,569 Change in operating assets and liabilities (Increase) decrease in inventories 5,658 (20,834 Decrease in trade and other receivables 2,842 9,426 Decrease in other assets 10,096 (3,687 Increase in other liabilities 14,205 29,546 Increase (Decrease) in contract liabilities (799 3,254 (Decrease) in trade and other payables (39,700 (86,005 Income taxes paid (544 (3,165 Interest received 1,952 Net cash used in operating activities (26,655 (147,727 Expenditure for property and equipment and intangible assets (1,296 (1,450 Net cash used in investing activities (1,296 (1,450 Interest paid (1,156 (2,752 Proceeds from borrowings 25,316 22,019 Lease payments (2,258 (10,806 Proceeds from employee stock options exercised 1,367 Net cash inflow from financing activities 21,902 9,828 Net decrease in cash and cash equivalents (6,049 (139,348 Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the period 15,107 603,593 Effects of exchange rate changes on cash and cash equivalents (98 (3,107 Cash and cash equivalents at end of the period 8,960 461,138

LuxExperience B.V.

Reconciliation of non-IFRS measures The following tables present a reconciliation of the Company's segment EBITDA to consolidated net loss for the three months ended September 30, 2025, with comparative illustrative segment information presented for the three months ended September 30, 2024: Three months ended September 30, 2024 (in millions) (unaudited) Luxury

Mytheresa Luxury

NAP MRP Off-Price

YOOX Other Reconciliation Aggregated Net sales 201.7 238.0 142.1 41.6 623.4 Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization (113.1 (127.2 (95.8 (34.3 (370.4 Gross profit 88.6 110.8 46.3 7.3 253.0 Shipping and payment cost (1) (29.3 (29.5 (26.1 (3.2 (0.1 (88.2 Marketing expenses (25.0 (18.8 (9.3 (2.1 (55.2 Selling, general and administrative expenses (1) (2) (30.3 (62.0 (37.8 (12.1 (28.1 (170.2 Other income (expense), net (1.2 3.3 1.8 1.7 5.6 Segment EBITDA 2.9 3.9 (25.1 (8.5 (28.2 (55.0

* Represents OFS and FM businesses being wound down. ** There were 23,825 thousand in expenses related to Other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses and share-based compensation expenses totaling 4,495 thousand. (1) Other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses represent (i) professional fees, including advisory and accounting fees, related to potential transactions, (ii) certain legal and other expenses incurred outside the ordinary course of our business and (iii) other non-recurring expenses incurred in connection with the costs of closing our distribution center in Heimstetten, Germany. (2) Certain members of management and supervisory board members have been granted share-based compensation for which the share-based compensation expense will be recognized upon defined vesting schedules in the future periods. Our methodology to adjust for share-based compensation and subsequently calculate Adjusted EBITDA, Adjusted Operating Income and Adjusted Net Income includes both share-based compensation expense connected to the IPO and share-based compensation expense recognized in connection with grants under the Long-Term Incentive Plan (LTI) for the Mytheresa Group key management members and share-based compensation expense due to Supervisory Board Members Plans. We do not consider share-based compensation expense to be indicative of our core operating performance.

Three months ended September 30, 2025 (in millions) (unaudited) Luxury

Mytheresa Luxury

NAP MRP Off-Price

YOOX Other Reconciliation IFRS Consolidated Net sales 226.3 212.3 118.6 19.2 (2.9 573.5 Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization (125.4 (110.8 (75.3 (14.2 2.9 (322.8 Gross profit 101.0 101.5 43.3 5.0 0.0 250.7 Shipping and payment cost (1) (36.0 (28.3 (17.7 (1.6 (1.1 (84.7 Marketing expenses (25.6 (17.6 (6.8 (50.0 Selling, general and administrative expenses (1) (2) (31.7 (61.9 (33.9 (2.2 (44.3 (174.0 Other income (expense), net 0.2 (8.2 (6.4 2.2 (12.2 Segment EBITDA 7.9 (14.6 (21.4 3.4 (45.4 (70.1 Depreciation and amortization (11.6 Finance costs, net (1.1 Income tax (expense) benefit (2.6 Net loss from continued operations (85.4

*Represents OFS and FM businesses being wound down. ** There were 41,852 thousand in expenses related to Other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses and share-based compensation expenses totaling 3,531 thousand. Additionally, there was 2,858 thousand in inter-segmental purchases of inventory which were subsequently sold during the period, and are therefore eliminated from Net sales and Cost of sales, exclusive of depreciation and amortization.

The following tables set forth the reconciliations of net loss to EBITDA to adjusted EBITDA, and their corresponding margins as a percentage of net sales: Three months ended September 30, (in millions) (unaudited) 2024 2025 Change

in / BPs Net loss from continued operations (23.5 (85.4 (263.3 Depreciation and amortization 7.1 11.6 63.5 Finance costs, net 1.2 1.1 (7.9 Income tax (expense) benefit (7.7 2.6 (133.4 EBITDA (22.9 (70.1 (206.1 Adjustments: Other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses (1) 21.3 41.9 96.6 Share-based compensation (2) 4.5 3.6 (21.0 Adjusted EBITDA 2.9 (24.7 (950.7 Reconciliation to Adjusted EBITDA margin Net sales 201.7 573.5 184.3 Adjusted EBITDA margin 1.4 (4.3 (570 BPs)

(1) Other transaction-related, certain legal and other expenses represent (i) professional fees, including advisory and accounting fees, related to potential transactions, (ii) certain legal and other expenses incurred outside the ordinary course of our business, and (iii) other non-recurring expenses incurred in connection with the costs of closing distribution centers. (2) Share-based compensation [expense] includes expenses related to share-based compensation grants made to certain members of our management and Supervisory Board for which the share-based compensation expense will be recognized upon defined vesting schedules in the future periods. Our methodology to adjust for share-based compensation and subsequently calculate Adjusted EBITDA includes both share-based compensation expense connected to the IPO and share-based compensation expense recognized in connection with grants under the LTI for LuxExperience key management members and share-based compensation expense due to Supervisory Board Members Plan. We do not consider share-based compensation expense to be indicative of our core operating performance. This adjustment impacts sales, general and administrative expenses.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119052534/en/

Contacts:

Investor Relations Contact

LuxExperience B.V.

Stefanie Muenz

phone: +49 89 127695-1919

email: investors@luxexperience.com



Media Contact for business press

LuxExperience B.V.

Lisa Schulz

mobile: +49 151 11216490

email: lisa.schulz@luxexperience.com
Survey of the largest listed companies finds UK sets the pace on accessibility, but lags on responsible AI.

Key findings:

Responsible AI disclosure remains a major blind spot as only 10% of companies disclose how they use AI responsibly.

Three-quarters of UK companies (75%) publish an accessibility statement but lag behind European companies in disclosing responsible AI.

Sustainability communication is expanding but still uneven.

LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A LEADING SURVEY into the UK's top listed companies has found that only a small number present their approach to ethical AI use through a policy or framework directly available on their corporate website - despite a growing expectation from their audiences.

Webranking by Comprend evaluates the UK's largest listed companies on how well their corporate websites meet stakeholder expectations. This year's survey of 104 businesses showed that while 79% of UK companies discuss how emerging technologies such as AI are affecting their business and 65% publish detailed information or examples, only 10% disclose how they use AI responsibly. This puts the UK slightly behind the European average of just 12%.

Now in its 29th year, the?Webranking by leading global comms and marketing agency Comprend evaluates the digital communications of the largest UK and European companies. Its methodology is based on a specific set of criteria that are updated annually based on surveys of stakeholder expectations. These criteria are used to evaluate and score corporate websites from 0 to 100.?

This year, UK companies achieved an average score of 46.4 out of 100, slightly below the Europe 500 average of 47.1.

Coca Cola HBC was this year's highest scorer, with 60 points while Croda International was this year's highest climber, going from 51.9 to 57.6 points. In second place, BP scored 61.8 points, and Centrica was in third place, scoring 59.7 points.



James Handslip, Managing Director, Comprend UK says: "Top performers in Webranking demonstrate consistent strengths in financial transparency, accessibility, and cohesive storytelling - linking strategy, sustainability, and digital transformation across their corporate sites. This year, more than ever, interest in how companies use emerging technologies is high. Yet the findings show a clear gap between discussing AI and demonstrating responsible governance, highlighting a critical opportunity for companies to build trust through greater transparency."

The Webranking findings on AI form part of a broader study on how companies are adapting their online communication in response to growing expectations for transparency and regulatory change.



While UK companies continue to perform well on the fundamentals - particularly in accessibility - the results reveal growing pressure to communicate more clearly on new and complex topics such as artificial intelligence, digitalisation, and sustainability governance.

Evolving expectations for transparency

The findings reflect how UK companies are navigating a rapidly changing communication landscape shaped by regulation and technology. As frameworks like the EU AI Act, the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), and the European Accessibility Act set new benchmarks for disclosure, companies are expected to present complex information in an accessible, credible, and consistent way.

Strong accessibility performance

Accessibility continues to be a clear UK strength.

75% of companies publish an accessibility statement, far ahead of the Europe 500 average of 42%.

86% achieve an Accessibility Cloud rating of A or B, compared with 79% across Europe.

This suggests that UK companies are more advanced in embedding accessibility as part of digital quality and inclusion - an encouraging sign as new accessibility regulations take effect.

AI communication expands, but responsibility remains under-addressed

The survey found that 79% of UK companies provide at least brief information about how AI, IoT or blockchain affect their business, and 65% go further by offering detailed examples or dedicated pages.

However, only 10% disclose their approach to ethical or responsible AI, such as through a policy or framework - slightly below the European average of 12%. This gap highlights an opportunity for UK companies to take a leadership role in AI governance transparency, especially as investor and regulatory scrutiny increases.

Sustainability disclosure diversifies

As sustainability reporting enters a new era, UK companies are steadily expanding their communication.

18% disclose external assurance of sustainability data (compared with 12% in Europe).

% publish a double materiality assessment.

57% present sustainability information within their careers section, aligning purpose with employee engagement.

These results show that many UK companies are integrating sustainability more deeply across their corporate narrative, not only within dedicated ESG sections.

Innovation and digitalisation gaining visibility

37% of UK companies now include information about innovation, digitalisation or AI initiatives in their investment case - a positive sign of how these topics are becoming part of the mainstream business and investor story.

Top Webranking performers in the UK

Company Sector Score Coca-Cola HBC Food, Beverage and Tobacco 63.0 BP Energy 61.8 Centrica Utilities 59.7 Diageo Food, Beverage and Tobacco 58.4 Halma Industrial Goods and Services 57.7 Croda International Chemicals 57.6 GlaxoSmithKline Health Care 57.3 HSBC Banks 57.2 Phoenix Group Insurance 56.6 Shell Energy 56.3 Vodafone Group Telecommunications 56.1 Weir Group Industrial Goods and Services 56 Aviva Insurance 55.9 Rolls-Royce Holdings Industrial Goods and Services 55.7 Smiths Group Industrial Goods and Services 55.5 NatWest Group Banks 55.3 Rio Tinto Basic Resources 54.9 BT Group Telecommunications 54.7 Experian Industrial Goods and Services 54.5 Hiscox Insurance 54

For more information on Webranking by Comprend contact karen.lester@comprend.com

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Relevant Gold Corp. (TSXV:RGC)(OTCQB:RGCCF) ("Relevant Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an exploration update for its >35,000-acre South Pass Gold Camp in west-central Wyoming. The Company has initiated a combined airborne high-resolution Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) and magnetics survey to acquire high-resolution data to aid in identifying secondary structures, conductive, and magnetic anomalies and refine drill targets across the South Pass gold camp. All VTEM data collection is expected to conclude at both South Pass and Bradley Peak in Q4 2025. The Company has also completed systematic geological mapping, rock chip sampling, and soil sampling campaigns in South Pass aimed at continuing to define exploration targets for 2026 drill planning. Assays for these are pending.

"These initiatives are designed to unlock the full potential of the high-grade and grossly underexplored South Pass gold district," said Relevant Gold CEO Rob Bergmann. "Results from our sampling and drilling programs to date have confirmed high-grade, gold-bearing structures surrounded by broad, shallow zones of lower-grade mineralization. We expect the upcoming surface sampling to highlight additional gold zones, and the planned geophysical work will help us see deeper into known structures and define new targets for our 2026 drilling program."

South Pass Exploration Update

Gold mineralization at South Pass is strongly correlated with sulfide-bearing shear structures (arsenopyrite-pyrrhotite-pyrite) and quartz veins hosted within the Miners Delight Formation. The 2025 exploration program utilized a combination of airborne VTEM magnetics, geologic mapping, and geochemistry sampling programs to identify new gold zones and provide needed infilling along known mineralized structures.

Airborne Geophysics

The VTEM survey is a 2,807 line-km survey using 75 m line spacing, designed to cover the majority of the South Pass camp. This will provide high-resolution conductivity and magnetic datasets, helping to identify concealed structures and anomalies, significantly enhancing drill planning and target ranking.

This survey is being flown by Geotech Ltd. in conjunction with the previously announced survey program at Bradley Peak (news release - September 5, 2025), which received $226,533 USD in matching grant funds from the Wyoming Energy Matching Funds (EMF) program (news release - July 2, 2025).

Lewiston Geology Mapping and Rock Chip Sampling

Geologic mapping, combined with rock chip sampling was undertaken in the southern Lewiston sub-project area to characterize areas with limited data and follow up on surface features intersected in 2024 drilling at Burr (news release -December 18, 2024). A total of 446 rock chip samples were collected and submitted to MSA Labs in Elko, Nevada for gold and pathfinder element analysis. Results will be reported when received.

Windy Flats Soil Sampling

A total of 1,400 soil samples were collected along 8 survey lines totaling ~32 line km to help identify anomalies that could reflect concealed mineralized shear structures. Samples were spaced at 25 m intervals on north-south oriented lines spaced every 300 m. Samples are being analyzed with a portable Niton XL5 X-Ray Fluorescence detector for pathfinder elements including: As, Cu and Zn.

Next Steps

Airborne VTEM survey flights are expected to be completed in Q4 2025. Initial results and interpretations are anticipated in Q1 2026.

Geochemical sampling and mapping results and assays are expected in Q4 2025.

Data analysis, interpretations and target analysis expected in Q1 2026.

Lewiston Project Highlights

Nov. 16, 2023: Relevant Gold Completes 1,560 Metres of Drilling at Lewiston and Provides Exploration Update

Feb. 15, 2024: Relevant Gold Cuts Widespread Gold Mineralization at the Heavy Hand Target, 10 of 11 Drill Holes Hit in First-Ever Drill Program

Dec. 18, 2024: Relevant Gold Intersects Gold Mineralization in All Six Holes at Burr

Golden Buffalo Project Highlights

Nov. 7, 2022: Relevant Gold Announces 13 New Orogenic Shear Structures (15km total) Discovered through 2022 Exploration and Completion of 3500m Drilling Program

Feb. 6, 2023: Relevant Gold Intersects 83.8 g/t Gold over 1 metre at Golden Buffalo

Feb. 16, 2023: Relevant Gold Reports 4.1 g/t Gold in Trench Sampling at Golden Buffalo

Mar. 13, 2024: Relevant Gold Reveals 3.5 km2 Geochemical Soil Anomaly at Golden Buffalo

Shield-Carissa & Windy Flats Highlights

Dec. 14, 2023: Relevant Gold Samples 18.9 g/t Au and 486 g/t Ag along 2.7 km of Mineralized Shear Zones at Shield-Carissa, Wyoming

Qualified Person

The scientific and technical contents of this release have been approved by Mr. Brian C. Lentz, CPG #11999, Chief Exploration Officer of the Company, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Lentz is not independent of the Company.

About Relevant Gold Corp.

Relevant Gold Corp. is a North American gold exploration company founded by experienced exploration geologists and operated by a highly respected team with a proven record of significant value creation for shareholders. Relevant Gold is focused on the acquisition, exploration, discovery, and development of district-scale gold projects in the state of Wyoming - one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in the United States and globally.

On behalf of Relevant Gold Corp.,

Rob Bergmann, Chief Executive Officer

More information

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

For further information about Relevant Gold Corp. or this news release, please visit our website at www.relevantgoldcorp.com or contact Rob Bergmann, President and CEO, or Kristopher Jensen, Manager of Investor Relations, at 763-760-4886 or by email at investorrelations@relevantgoldcorp.com.

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Historical Information

This news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of Relevant Gold Corp. ("Relevant" or "Relevant Gold" or "the Company"). Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "may", "will", "project", "predict", "potential", "targeting", "intend", "could", "might", "should", "believe", "outlook" and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward looking information. Forward-looking information involves known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors which may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by the forward-looking information. Such risks include, among others, the inherent risk of the mining industry; adverse economic and market developments; the risk that the Company will not be successful in completing additional acquisitions; risks relating to the estimation of mineral resources; the possibility that the Company's estimated burn rate may be higher than anticipated; risks of unexpected cost increases; risks of labour shortages; risks relating to exploration and development activities; risks relating to future prices of mineral resources; risks related to work site accidents, risks related to geological uncertainties and variations; risks related to government and community support of the company's projects; risks related to global pandemics and other risks related to the mining industry. The Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, but no assurance can be given that these expectations will prove to be correct and such forward-looking information should not be unduly relied upon. These statements speak only as of the date of this news release. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update any forward-looking information except as required by law. This document does not constitute an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy, securities of the Company in Canada, the United States or any other jurisdiction. Any such offer to sell or solicitation of an offer to buy the securities described herein will be made only pursuant to subscription documentation between the Company and prospective purchasers. Any such offering will be made in reliance upon exemptions from the prospectus and registration requirements under applicable securities laws, pursuant to a subscription agreement to be entered into by the Company and prospective investors.

The scientific and technical contents of this release have been approved by Mr. Brian C. Lentz, CPG #11999, Chief Exploration Officer of the Company, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Lentz is not independent of the Company.

SOURCE: Relevant Gold Corp.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/relevant-gold-vtemtm-survey-expands-to-south-pass-1103849
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd. (TSX:NDM)(NYSE American:NAK) ("Northern Dynasty" or the "Company") and its 100%-owned U.S.-based subsidiary Pebble Limited Partnership ("Pebble Partnership") announce that as the federal government has now reopened after a 43-day closure, the lawsuit in the Alaska Federal Court will resume.

The plaintiffs (the State of Alaska, Pebble Partnership and Iliamna Natives Ltd. and Alaska Peninsula Corp.) have already filed their opening briefs. The new date by which the Department of Justice ("DOJ") must file its response brief is February 16, 2026 (previously, they were to file their response brief by January 2, 2026). The revised date for the plaintiffs to then file their response to the DOJ response brief is April 15, 2026.

"We appreciate the challenge faced by the DOJ lawyers during the shutdown; however, we believe this to be an excessive extension of time for a case attempting to support an illegal Obama/Biden-era veto," Ron Thiessen, Northern Dynasty President and CEO stated. "It continues to be our preferred outcome for the ongoing discussions to result in government officials withdrawing the illegal veto, which would allow us to terminate the summary judgement process. In the meantime, we continue a parallel track of both discussions and court action in the interest of keeping timelines as tight as possible."

About Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd.

Northern Dynasty is a mineral exploration and development company based in Vancouver, Canada. Northern Dynasty's principal asset, owned through its wholly owned Alaska-based U.S. subsidiary, Pebble Limited Partnership, is a 100% interest in a contiguous block of 1,840 mineral claims in Southwest Alaska, including the Pebble deposit, located 200 miles from Anchorage and 125 miles from Bristol Bay. The Pebble Partnership is the proponent of the Pebble Project.

For further details on Northern Dynasty and the Pebble Project, please visit the Company's website at www.northerndynastyminerals.com or contact Investor services at (604) 684-6365 or within North America at 1-800-667-2114. Public filings, which include forward looking information cautionary language and risk factor disclosure regarding the Company and the Pebble Project can be found in Canada at www.sedarplus.ca and in the United States at www.sec.gov.

Ronald W. Thiessen

President & CEO

U.S. Media Contact:

Dan Gagnier, Gagnier Communications (646) 569-5897

Forward Looking Information and other Cautionary Factors

This document includes certain statements that may be deemed "forward-looking statements" under the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and under applicable provisions of Canadian provincial securities laws. All statements in this document, other than statements of historical facts, which address permitting, including the Company's legal action against the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency ("EPA") and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers ("USACE"), the withdrawal of the EPA veto and the development and production for the Pebble Project are forward-looking statements. Additional forward looking statements made by the Company under its continuous disclosure obligations include statements regarding (i) the development plan for the Pebble Project (ii) the right-sizing and de-risking of the Pebble Project, (iii) the design and operating parameters for the Pebble Project development plan, including projected capital and operating costs, (iv) the social integration of the Pebble Project into the Bristol Bay region and benefits for Alaska, (v) the political and public support for the permitting process, (vi) the ability of the Pebble Project to ultimately secure all required federal and state permits, (vii) the ability of the Company and/or the State of Alaska to challenge the EPA's Final Determination process under the Clean Water Act and ultimately the USACE's Record of Decision ("USACE ROD") through legal actions; (viii) exploration potential of the Pebble Project, (ix) future demand for copper, gold and other metals, (x) if permitting is ultimately secured, the ability to demonstrate the Pebble Project is ultimately commercially viable, and (xi) the potential addition of partners in the Pebble Project. Although NDM believes the expectations expressed in these forward-looking statements are based on reasonable assumptions, such statements should not be in any way be construed as guarantees that the Pebble Project will secure all required government permits or regarding the ability of NDM to develop the Pebble Project in light of the USACE ROD and its subsequent remand decision and the EPA's Final Determination, establish the commercial feasibility of the Pebble Project, achieve the required financing or develop the Pebble Project.

Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of factors and assumptions that, while considered reasonable by NDM as of the date of such statements, are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Assumptions used by NDM to develop forward-looking statements include the assumptions that (i) the Pebble Project will obtain all required environmental and other permits and all land use and other licenses without undue delay, (ii) any feasibility studies prepared for the development of the Pebble Project will be positive, (iii) NDM's estimates of mineral resources will not change, and NDM will be successful in converting mineral resources to mineral reserves, (iv) NDM will be able to establish the commercial feasibility of the Pebble Project, and (v) NDM will be successful in its legal action against the EPA and the USACE and any action taken by the EPA in connection with the Final Determination will ultimately not be successful in restricting or prohibiting development of the Pebble Project.

In addition, the likelihood of future mining at the Pebble Project is subject to a large number of risks and will require achievement of a number of technical, economic and legal objectives, including (i) the current development plan may not reflect the ultimate mine plan for the Pebble Project, (ii) obtaining necessary mining and construction permits, licenses and approvals without undue delay, including without delay due to third party opposition or changes in government policies, (iii) finalization of the mine plan for the Pebble Project, (iv) the completion of feasibility studies demonstrating that any Pebble Project mineral resources that can be economically mined, (v) completion of all necessary engineering for mining and processing facilities, (vi) the ability of NDM to secure a partner for the development of the Pebble Project, and (vi) receipt by NDM of significant additional financing to fund these objectives as well as funding mine construction. NDM is also subject to the specific risks inherent in the mining business as well as general economic and business conditions. Investors should also consider the risk factors identified in the Company's Annual Information Form for the year ended December 31, 2024, as filed on SEDAR+ (www.sedarplus.ca) and included in its annual report on Form 40-F filed on EDGAR (www.sec.gov), as well as the risk factors set out in the Company's subsequent public continuous disclosure filings available on SEDAR+ and EDGAR. For more information on the Company, Investors should review the Company's filings with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission at www.sec.gov and its home jurisdiction filings that are available at www.sedarplus.ca.

The National Environment Policy Act Environmental Impact Statement process requires a comprehensive "alternatives assessment" be undertaken to consider a broad range of development alternatives, the final project design and operating parameters for the Pebble Project and associated infrastructure may vary significantly from that currently contemplated. As a result, the Company will continue to consider various development options and no final project design has been selected at this time.

SOURCE: Northern Dynasty Minerals Ltd.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/northern-dynasty-timelines-for-summary-judgement-case-updated-to-reflect-43-day-f-1104027
$100 Billion Investment Program to be Deployed Across the Full AI Value Chain

NVIDIA and KIA Will Each Join the Fund as Investors and Founding Partners

NEW YORK, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Brookfield today announced the launch of a $100 billion global AI Infrastructure program in partnership with NVIDIA and the Kuwait Investment Authority ("KIA").

Brookfield will anchor the program with the Brookfield Artificial Intelligence Infrastructure Fund ("BAIIF" or "the Fund"), which launches today with a target of $10 billion of equity commitments to invest in the backbone of artificial intelligence ("AI"). BAIIF has already received $5 billion of capital commitments from a select group of institutional and industry partners, including Brookfield, NVIDIA and KIA.

BAIIF, together with additional capital from its co-investors and prudent financing, will acquire up to $100 billion of AI infrastructure assets, deploying investment across every stage of the value chain-from energy and land to data centers and compute.

As one of the world's leading owners and operators of AI infrastructure assets, with over $100 billion already invested in digital infrastructure and clean power, Brookfield is uniquely positioned to deliver integrated infrastructure solutions and critical services required to power the next generation of AI.

Sikander Rashid, Head of AI Infrastructure at Brookfield, said: "AI is creating one of the largest infrastructure buildouts in history, comparable to the formation of the modern power grid and global telecom networks, but unfolding at a far greater pace and significantly larger scale. This buildout will require $7 trillion of capital in the next 10 years across the entire AI value chain including power, compute, data centres, and beyond. We are thrilled to formally launch our dedicated AI program in partnership with NVIDIA and others to deliver this infrastructure at speed, at scale, and to the highest standard for enterprises, technology firms, and sovereign governments."

"AI is transforming every industry, and like electricity, it will require every nation to build the infrastructure to power it. AI infrastructure demands land, power, and purpose-built supercomputers-and our partnership with Brookfield brings all of these elements together in a ready-to-deploy AI cloud," said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. "We're thrilled that Radiant, Brookfield's AI cloud service, is building an NVIDIA GPU cloud based on the NVIDIA DSX blueprint to deliver Vera Rubin-ready AI infrastructure-fast to deploy and designed to scale with the world's growing intelligence needs."

Investing in the Infrastructure Underpinning the Growth of AI

BAIIF will focus on investing in the physical infrastructure assets that underpin the delivery of AI, across four verticals: AI Factories primarily built on NVIDIA's DSX Vera Rubin-ready reference design; dedicated behind-the-meter power solutions; compute infrastructure including integrated solutions tailored for governments and leading global enterprises; and strategic adjacencies and capital partnerships across the entire AI value chain. BAIIF will prioritize investments backed by highly creditworthy counterparties and contracted cash flows.

Seed Investments

Brookfield recently secured a seed AI infrastructure investment for the Fund with the announcement of a $5 billion framework agreement with Bloom Energy to install up to 1 GW of behind the meter power solutions for data centers and AI factories. Brookfield is launching Radiant, a new NVIDIA Cloud Partner, to provide full-stack AI services leveraging Brookfield's access to scaled infrastructure, including land, power and data centers around the world. Radiant will build AI factories based on NVIDIA DSX reference design to offer the fastest time to revenues and provide direct support to Brookfield's Sovereign AI programs. Brookfield has also announced landmark partnerships in France and Sweden to support their national AI ambitions with up to $30 billion of combined AI Infrastructure investment.

Notes

Read Brookfield's white paper, Building the Backbone of AI, here: www.brookfield.com/sites/default/files/documents/Brookfield_Building_the_Backbone_of_AI.pdf

Contact Information:

Media:

Simon Maine

Tel: +44 739 890 9278

Email: Simon.Maine@Brookfield.com

Investor Relations:

Jason Fooks

Tel: (212) 417-2442

Email: Jason.Fooks@Brookfield.com John Hamlin

Tel: +44 204 557 4334

Email: John.Hamlin@Brookfield.com

About Brookfield Asset Management

Brookfield Asset Management Ltd. (NYSE: BAM, TSX: BAM) is a leading global alternative asset manager, headquartered in New York, with over $1 trillion of assets under management across infrastructure, renewable power and transition, private equity, real estate, and credit. We invest client capital for the long-term with a focus on real assets and essential service businesses that form the backbone of the global economy. We offer a range of alternative investment products to investors around the world - including public and private pension plans, endowments and foundations, sovereign wealth funds, financial institutions, insurance companies and private wealth investors. We draw on Brookfield's heritage as an owner and operator to invest for value and generate strong returns for our clients, across economic cycles.

For more information, please visit our website at www.brookfield.com.

Notice to Readers

This news release contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934, "safe harbor" provisions of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and "forward-looking information" within the meaning of other relevant securities legislation, including applicable securities laws in Canada, which reflect our current views with respect to, among other things, our operations and financial performance (collectively, "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements include statements that are predictive in nature, depend upon or refer to future results, events or conditions, and include, but are not limited to, statements which reflect management's current estimates, beliefs and assumptions and which are in turn based on our experience and perception of historical trends, current conditions and expected future developments, as well as other factors management believes are appropriate in the circumstances. The estimates, beliefs and assumptions of Brookfield are inherently subject to significant business, economic, competitive and other uncertainties and contingencies regarding future events and as such, are subject to change. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as "target", "anticipate", "believe", "foresee", "could", "estimate", "goal", "intend", "plan", "seek", "strive", "will", "may" and "should" and similar expressions. In particular, the forward-looking statements contained in this news release include statements referring to the launch of Brookfield's AI infrastructure program and related fund-raising targets.

Although Brookfield believes that such forward-looking statements are based upon reasonable estimates, beliefs and assumptions, certain factors, risks and uncertainties, which are described from time to time in our documents filed with the securities regulators in the United States and Canada, not presently known to Brookfield, or that Brookfield currently believes are not material, could cause actual results to differ materially from those contemplated or implied by forward-looking statements.

Readers are urged to consider these risks, as well as other uncertainties, factors and assumptions carefully in evaluating the forward-looking statements and are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, which are based only on information available to us as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, Brookfield undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether written or oral, that may be as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.
Study data, published in JAMA and presented at EMUC 2025, suggest ExactVu is potential MRI alternative for image-guided prostate biopsy

Exact Imaging today announced results from its OPTIMUM clinical trial demonstrating the non-inferiority of its ExactVu micro-ultrasound platform to MRI fusion-guided biopsy for diagnosing prostate cancer were presented on Nov. 14 by Dr. Laurence Klotz at the European Multidisciplinary Congress on Urological Cancers (EMUC) in Prague. The results of the study, which was published in JAMA and simultaneously presented at the EAU's Annual Meeting in March 2025, demonstrate that ExactVu could provide an alternative to MRI for image-guided prostate biopsy.

"These results are a game-changer for urologists and patients, as we now have an in-office diagnostic tool proven non-inferior to MRI that is easy-to-use, affordable and speeds the diagnosis process for patients," said Dr. Klotz, Professor, Department of Surgery, University of Toronto and Chair of Prostate Cancer Research, Sunnybrook Health Sciences Center. "I believe the technology has the potential to improve standard of care and reduce care disparities, especially for those with limited access to MRI."

OPTIMUM was a multicenter, international, open-label, randomized, non-inferiority trial of 802 biopsy-naive men with clinical suspicion of prostate cancer. Spanning 20 centers and eight countries, the study's primary outcome was non-inferiority in detection of Gleason Grade Group 2 or higher cancers using ExactVu micro-ultrasonography plus systematic biopsy versus MRI/conventional ultrasonography plus systematic biopsy. The secondary outcome was non-inferiority in detection of Gleason Grade Group 2 or higher cancers found using ExactVu micro-ultrasonography/MRI plus systematic biopsy versus MRI/conventional ultrasonography plus systematic biopsy. Both the primary and secondary outcomes were successfully achieved, with very similar rates of detection across all arms of the trial.

"The JAMA publication and EAU presentation of the OPTIMUM trial, and its subsequent presentation at EMUC 2025, are major validations for micro-ultrasound technology and a defining milestone for the company," said Randy AuCoin, president and CEO, Exact Imaging. "The results underscore the transformative potential of micro-ultrasound to make high-quality prostate imaging available to every patient, regardless of access to MRI."

Unlike traditional ultrasound, the ExactVu micro-ultrasound platform operates at 29 MHz, enabling a new level of resolution that allows urologists to visualize areas of interest in the prostate and specifically target biopsies to those areas. For those cases where high quality, well-interpreted MRI is available, the FusionVu feature of the ExactVu micro-ultrasound platform facilitates a fast, simple, elastic fusion procedure, complementing the power of the MRI with the micro-ultrasound system's 70-micron real-time resolution.

Ongoing research also confirms that ExactVu supports a wide range of clinical applications for urology practices, from active surveillance and focal therapy guidance to surgical planning, making it a versatile platform that grows with the evolving needs of modern prostate care.

For more information, visit https://www.exactimaging.com/exactvu-micro-ultrasound-system.

About Exact Imaging

Exact Imaging is the world's leader in high-resolution micro-ultrasound systems enabling real-time imaging and guided biopsies in the urological market for prostate cancer. Its ExactVu micro-ultrasound platform and FusionVu micro-US/MRI fusion application have received regulatory approval in the European Union (CE Mark), the United States (FDA 510(k)) and Canada (Health Canada medical device license).

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119703366/en/

Contacts:

MEDIA CONTACT:

Sam Choinski

Pazanga Health Communications

schoinski@pazangahealth.com

(860) 301-5058
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Altamira Gold Corp. (TSXV: ALTA) (FSE: T6UP) (OTCQB: EQTRF), ("Altamira" or the "Company") is pleased to report assay results from recent reconnaissance drill holes at the Morro Verde target, located within the Company's Cajueiro District area, Brazil.

Highlights:

Reconnaissance drill testing of a gold-in-soil anomaly associated with broad sericite alteration at the Morro Verde target (Figure 2), located 1.5km north of the Cajueiro Central mineral resource has intersected a new zone of gold mineralization associated with an altered quartz porphyry intrusive. The host rocks are similar to those at the Maria Bonita mineral resource and the more recently discovered mineralization at Tavares Norte prospect, 1.5km to the west of Morro Verde.

Drill hole MRV003 intersected 8m @ 3.5 g/t gold from 176m depth, including 1m @ 15.4 g/t gold, indicating potential for higher grade mineralization.

The gold mineralization is associated with potassic alteration of an interpreted quartz porphyry intrusive with associated A and B type quartz veining. There is strong sericite alteration overprinted on the earlier potassic alteration.

This is the first intercept of high-grade gold associated with altered porphyritic host rocks in the district and the 7th highest grade intercept (grade x length) in over 22km of drilling at Cajueiro to date.

A second drill rig is now operating at the Cajueiro mineral resource1 to test extensions of known gold bearing structures and complete infill holes within the resource area.

CEO Mike Bennett commented; "The discovery of higher-grade gold in a new and previously unrecognized porphyritic intrusive body at Morro Verde significantly extends the corridor of interest that runs east from the Maria Bonita porphyry. Following the recent discovery of gold mineralization at Tavares Norte, we now have drill intercepts in two separate gold-mineralized porphyry intrusives over an east-west distance of 6.5km from the Maria Bonita mineral resource. Scout drilling has now intersected mineralized intrusives at the first two of our eight district targets. The grade in the Morro Verde intercept is particularly encouraging as it confirms the potential to find mineralization with a combination of grades and widths that could have economic potential for both open-pit and underground mining operations With two rigs on site, we will continue follow-up drilling of these two new discoveries while also advancing expansion drilling of the two mineral resources at Maria Bonita and Central gold deposits."

CAJUEIRO DISTRICT

The Cajueiro district is located approximately 75km NW of the town of Alta Floresta in the state of Mato Grosso (Figure 1) in central western Brazil. The project is easily accessible by road, lies on open farmland and has grid power and a local water supply. Cajueiro is the most advanced of the key projects that Altamira controls in the region (Figure1).

Figure 1: Location of Altamira Gold's projects in the Alta Floresta Belt.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/275144_7926ee29143c480d_001full.jpg

The Cajueiro district consists of two independently estimated gold mineral resources at Cajueiro Central and Maria Bonita, plus a series of eight additional untested exploration targets within a radius of 8km of Cajueiro Central.

The Cajueiro Central area has a current open pit resource1 of 5.66Mt @ 1.02 g/t gold for a total of 185,000 oz in the Indicated Resource category and 12.66Mt @ 1.26 g/t gold for a total of 515,000 oz in the Inferred Resource category (estimated using a cut-off grade of 0.25g/t Au and a gold price of US$1,500/oz).

The Maria Bonita open-pit resource consists of Indicated Resources of 24.19Mt @ 0.46g/t gold (for a total of 357,800oz) and Inferred Resources of 25.64Mt @ 0.44g/t gold (for a total of 362,400oz)2. These resources were calculated using a 0.2 g/t gold cut-off grade and a gold price of US$2,780/oz. These resources include near-surface saprolite Indicated Resources of 2.02Mt @ 0.59g/t gold (38,000oz) and Inferred Resources of 0.68Mt @ 0.40g/t gold (8,700oz).

The Maria Bonita porphyry gold deposit forms part of a district-scale portfolio of prospects that are interpreted as having a similar geological origin (Figure 2). The Cajueiro area is characterized by a 15km stretch of former alluvial gold workings along the Teles Pires river. The source of some of this alluvial gold is related to a pronounced east-west corridor of gold anomalies in soils and rock chips and a set of sub-cropping intrusions extending east-west over 8km, implying the presence of a long-standing and deep-seated crustal structure.

Figure 2: Cajueiro district mineral resources at Cajueiro Central and Maria Bonita (white labels) and prospects (blue labels with scout drilling, yellow labels not yet drilled). An alignment of six of the targets occur in close spatial association to a pronounced east-west fault corridor marked by later gabbroic dykes.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/275144_7926ee29143c480d_002full.jpg

Morro Verde Drilling Update

The Morro Verde prospect is located 1.5km north of the Cajueiro Central resource area and 6.5km east of the Maria Bonita porphyry gold deposit (Figure 2). The prospect is defined by two separate gold-in-soil anomalies extending with values up to 178 ppb gold. Geological mapping has identified large areas of sericite alteration interpreted as associated with a hydrothermal system related to a causative concealed porphyry intrusive.

Previous surface rock chip grab sampling+ across the prospect returned grades of up to 5.2g/t gold in altered intrusive rocks (see press release dated September 02, 2025).

In the current scout drilling program, three widely spaced drill holes were completed at the target. The southern soil anomaly was tested by hole MRV003. An outcrop of veined and altered quartz porphyry coincides with the axis of the soil anomaly (Figure 3).

+ By their nature, grab samples are not representative of the bulk metal content of a mineralized zone.

This hole intersected porphyritic intrusive over 236m downhole (from surface). A discrete altered phase of quartz porphyry within this interval of quartz-felspar porphyry is associated with gold mineralization. A coherent interval of mineralization from 176m depth within the porphyry returned 8m @ 3.5 g/t gold, including 1m @ 15.4g/t gold (Figure 4). This zone is characterized by potassic alteration overprinted by later phyllic alteration, type A and B quartz veins and disseminated pyrite content (1.5-3% S). (Figure 5). This intercept lies approximately 300m north of the northern limit of the Cajueiro Central mineral resource (Figure 3).

Holes MRV001 and 002 targeted a separate surface grab rock sample+ anomaly in altered intrusive rocks (Figure 3). Hole MRV001was drilled entirely within a later sterile gabbro dyke that has no surface expression and returned no gold values. Hole MRV002 intersected 65m of quartz porphyry intrusive showing alteration but with little veining and no significant gold. The northern gold-in-soil anomaly with coincident phyllic alteration has been partially drill tested by a previous drill hole (CJO098) which intersected tuffs overlying altered intrusives. Further drill testing is pending on both of the gold-in-soil anomalies.

Figure 3: Morro Verde drill holes in relation to gold-in-soil anomalies and surface rock chip samples. The new intercept in MRV003 is located 300m north of the northern limit of the Baldo sector of the Cajueiro resource.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/275144_7926ee29143c480d_003full.jpg

Figure 4: Cross section for drill hole MRV003. The mineralized interval correlates with altered intrusive rocks on surface within a gold-in-soil anomaly.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/275144_7926ee29143c480d_004full.jpg

Drill Hole

From To Width Grade



(m) (m) (m) (g/t gold) MRV003

176 184 8 3.5

Incl. 182 183 1 15.3 EOH 254.15









Table 1: Scout drill hole drill results Morro Verde prospect.

Notes to Table 1: The true width of the intersection is currently unknown. The hole was drilled as (HQ2) (67mm) to a depth of 17m and thereafter reduced to (NQ2) (51mm) to the end of the hole.

Hole ID Easting Northing Elevation

(m) Depth (m) Azimuth

(degrees) Dip

(degrees)



MRV001 548613 8965711 237 98.3 0 -55 MRV002 548597 8965840 237 90.2 180 -55 MRV003 548460 8965590 243 292.4 180 -55

Table 2: Morro Verde drill hole collar locations.

Altamira now has two drill rigs operating at Cajueiro extending the current mineral resources at the Maria Bonita and Central resources. Further drilling is planned at Morro Verde and Tavares Norte to further delineate these respective porphyry systems and test for the continuity of the mineralized zones in MRV003 and TVN002 (press release October 29, 2025).

Figure 5: Comparison of textures in gold-mineralized porphyritic host rocks at Maria Bonita resource and both the Tavares Norte and Morro Verde prospects.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/4500/275144_7926ee29143c480d_005full.jpg

Cajueiro Central Resource Drilling Program

The Cajueiro Central mineral resource1 comprises several moderately dipping mineralized vein and breccia structures with orientations north-east to east and strike lengths up to 900m. The mineralized zones are up to 40m thick (true width). The deepest drill intercept to date within the mineral resource is 70m vertical below surface. The breccias are characterized by minor quartz fill accompanied by intense sericite alteration, pyrite and minor base metal sulphides and are interpreted as the mesothermal zone of mineralization associated with a porphyry centre, not yet identified. Grades are variable and are related, in part, to sulphide content.

A trial IP survey line conducted in 2023, demonstrated that the mineralized breccias are well defined by their chargeability profiles and further ground geophysics is planned to better delineate the full extent of the mineralization.

The current drill program aims to extend the resource laterally by testing extensions to the mineralized structures, defined by mapping and trenching. Depth extensions of the better mineralized sections will also be tested.

The 2019 mineral resource estimate has 27% of the contained gold in the Indicated category and 73% in the Inferred category. Infill drilling will be directed at moving more of the resource to the Indicated category to support early mining studies.

The drill program will also include collection of drill core for further metallurgical testing of the primary mineralization where prior tests delivered very promising gold recoveries of over 90% for both agitated leach extraction and a combination of gravity and agitated leach processes.

Qualified Person

Guillermo Hughes, FAIG and M Aus IMM., a consultant to the Company as well as a Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101, supervised and approved the preparation of the technical information in this news release.

About Altamira Gold Corp.

The Company is focused on the exploration and development of gold projects within western central Brazil, strategically advancing five projects spanning over 100,000 hectares within the prolific Juruena Gold Belt-an area that has historically yielded over 6 million ounces of placer gold3. The Company's advanced Cajueiro project contains two gold deposits. The central area comprises NI 43-101 resources of 5.66Mt @ 1.02 g/t gold for a total of 185,000 oz in the Indicated Resource category and 12.66Mt @ 1.26 g/t gold for a total of 515,000oz in the Inferred Resource category. In addition, the Maria Bonita gold deposit comprises additional open pit Indicated Resources of 24.19Mt @ 0.46g/t for a total of 357,800oz, and Inferred Resources of 25.64Mt @ 0.44g/t for a total of 362,400oz.

Ongoing exploration and fieldwork at Cajueiro indicate the presence of multiple porphyry gold systems, reinforcing its potential for district-scale development. These hard-rock gold sources align with historical alluvial gold production, highlighting the region's exceptional gold endowment and potential scalability. With two independently established mineral resources, a highly prospective geological setting and a track record of significant discoveries, the Company is well-positioned to unlock further value across its extensive land package.

1NI 43-101 Technical Report, Cajueiro Project, Mineral Resource Estimate: Global Resource Engineering, Denver Colorado USA, 10thOctober 2019; Authors K. Gunesch, PE; H. Samari, QP-MMSA; T. Harvey, QP-MMSA

2 NI43-101 Technical Report, Mineral Resource for the Maria Bonita Prospect: VMG Consultoria, Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais, Brazil. 12th June 2025; Author V. Myadzel

3 Juliani, C. et al; Gold in Paleoproterozoic (2.1 to 1.77 Ga) Continental Magmatic Arcs at the Tapajos and Juruena Mineral Provinces (Amazonian Craton, Brazil): A New Frontier for the Exploration of Epithermal-Porphyry and Related Deposits. Minerals 2021, 11, 714. https://doi.org/10.3390/min11070714

On Behalf of the Board of Directors,

ALTAMIRA GOLD CORP.

"Michael Bennett"

Michael Bennett

President & CEO

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

The securities described herein have not been registered under the U.S. Securities Act or any state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the United States absent registration or an applicable exemption from registration requirements under the U.S. Securities Act and any applicable state securities laws.

Forward-looking Statements

Certain information contained herein constitutes "forward-looking information" under Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking information includes, but is not limited to, statements with respect to the extension of the Warrants. Generally, forward-looking information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "will", "intends" or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "will" occur. Forward-looking statements are based on the opinions and estimates of management as of the date such statements are made and they are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, including the receipt of all necessary regulatory approvals. Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. The Company will not update any forward-looking statements or forward-looking information that is incorporated by reference herein, except as required by applicable securities laws.

Quality Assurance/Quality Control

Sample assay results are monitored through a quality control / quality assurance program that includes the insertion of blind certified reference materials (standards), blanks and field duplicate samples. Logging and sampling are completed at a secure Company facility located on site. Drill core is cut in half on site by a saw cut or slicer (in soft saprolite). Gold analysis has been conducted by SGS Geosol in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, using SGS method FAA505 (fire assay of 50g charge), with higher grade samples checked by FAA525. Analytical quality is monitored by certified references and blanks. Until dispatch, samples are stored under the supervision the Company's exploration office. The samples are couriered to the assay laboratory using a commercial contractor. Pulps are returned to the Company and archived. Drill holes results are quoted as down-hole length weighted intersections. Additional information regarding the Company data verification processes is set out in the NI 43-101 Technical Report, Maria Bonita Prospect, June 2025, which can be found on the Company's website.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275144

SOURCE: Altamira Gold Corp.
GOTHENBURG, Sweden, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- This week ocean energy technology developer Minesto is participating in a Swedish business delegation to Canada in connection with the royal couple's state visit. The delegation, led by the Swedish Minister for Energy and Business and Minister for Defence, aims to strengthen Swedish-Canadian relations and promote innovation with focus on AI, defence & security and electrification. With significant ocean resources with tidal streams and political support for ocean energy, Canada is a highly attractive market for Minesto.

Minesto CEO Dr Martin Edlund is taking part in the delegation to strengthen relationships with Canadian stakeholders and expand business opportunities. The programme includes interactive high-level forums and tailored company visits in Ottawa and Montreal. With significant tidal resources well suited for Minesto's powerplants and growing political support for ocean energy, the visit to Canada is of strategic importance for Minesto.

Today, 19 November, Minesto is participating in Sweden Canada Innovation Days 2025, funded by Vinnova and the Swedish Energy Agency. The conference offers opportunities for Minesto to connect with industry leaders, academia and government representatives to explore partnerships and funding opportunities.

Commenting on the mission, organiser Business Sweden's CEO Jan Larsson states in a press release: "Canada is a strategic partner with strong industries in clean energy, advanced technology, and defence & security. Through this delegation, Swedish companies can build long-term relationships with Canadian partners across a range of sectors".

For more information, see Swedish business delegation to Canada focusing on AI, defence & security, and electrification in connection with the royal couple's state visit - Business Sweden

Press contact

Cecilia Sernhage, Chief Communications Officer

+46 735 23 71 58

press@minesto.com

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Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Torex Gold Resources Inc. (the "Company" or "Torex") (TSX: TXG) (OTCQX: TORXF) announces that, further to its news release dated November 5, 2025, it has received approval from the Toronto Stock Exchange (the "TSX") of its notice of intention to renew its normal course issuer bid (the "NCIB").

Under the NCIB, Torex is authorized to purchase up to 8,133,430 of its common shares ("Common Shares"), representing approximately 10% of the public float as of November 11, 2025, during the period commencing on November 21, 2025 and ending on November 20, 2026. As of November 11, 2025, Torex had a total of 96,176,134 Common Shares issued and outstanding and a public float of 81,334,308 Common Shares.

The NCIB provides the Company with the flexibility to acquire Common Shares from time to time as an effective means of returning capital to its shareholders in accordance with its corporate strategy. Outside of blackout periods, Common Shares may be purchased under the NCIB based on the discretion of Torex's management, in compliance with the rules of the TSX and applicable securities laws.

Purchases under the NCIB will be made on the open market through the facilities of the TSX or alternative trading systems at a price per Common Share representative of the market price at the time of acquisition. The number of Common Shares that can be purchased pursuant to the NCIB is subject to a current daily maximum of 101,788 Common Shares (which is equal to 25% of the average daily trading volume of 407,154 Common Shares on the TSX for the six full calendar months ending October 31, 2025), subject to the Company's ability to make one block purchase of Common Shares per calendar week that exceeds such limits. All Common Shares purchased under the NCIB will be cancelled after their purchase. The Company intends to fund any purchases under the NCIB from its available working capital.

Under Torex's current NCIB, which commenced on November 21, 2024 and ends on November 20, 2025, the Company obtained approval to purchase up to a total of 7,116,777 Common Shares, of which 308,632 Common Shares were purchased through the facilities of the TSX at a volume weighted average price of approximately C$46.78 (excluding commissions) per Common Share as of November 11, 2025.

Although Torex has the present intention to acquire its Common Shares pursuant to the NCIB, Torex will not be obligated to make any purchases and purchases may be suspended by Torex at any time. Decisions regarding any future repurchases will depend on certain factors, such as market conditions, share price, and other opportunities to invest capital for growth.

ABOUT TOREX GOLD RESOURCES INC.

Torex Gold Resources Inc. is a Canadian mining company engaged in the exploration, development, and production of gold, copper, and silver from its flagship Morelos Complex in Guerrero, which is currently Mexico's largest single gold producer. The Company also owns the advanced stage Los Reyes gold-silver project in Sinaloa, Mexico, and recently acquired a portfolio of early-stage exploration properties, including the Batopilas and Guigui projects in Chihuahua, Mexico, and the Gryphon and Medicine Springs projects in Nevada, USA.

The Company's key strategic objectives are to: deliver Media Luna to full production and build EPO; optimize Morelos production and costs; grow reserves and resources; pursue disciplined growth and capital allocation; retain and attract best industry talent; and be an industry leader in responsible mining. In addition to realizing the full potential of the Morelos Property, the Company continues to seek opportunities to acquire assets that enable diversification and deliver value to shareholders.

CAUTIONARY NOTES ON FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains "forward-looking statements" and "forward-looking information" (collectively, "Forward-Looking Information") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-Looking Information includes, but is not limited to, statements that: all Common Shares purchased under the NCIB will be cancelled after their purchase; the Company intends to fund the purchases from its available working capital; and Common Shares may be purchased under the NCIB based on the discretion of Torex's management. Forward-Looking Information also includes the Company's key strategic objectives to: deliver Media Luna to full production and build EPO, optimize Morelos production and costs, grow reserves and resources, pursue disciplined growth and capital allocation, retain and attract best industry talent, and be an industry leader in responsible mining. Generally, Forward-Looking Information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "guidance", "expects", "planned", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results are "on track to" or "will", or "is expected to" occur. Forward-Looking Information is subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of the Company to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such Forward-Looking Information, including, without limitation, risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's technical report (the "Technical Report") released on March 31, 2022, entitled "NI 43-101 Technical Report ELG Mine Complex Life of Mine Plan and Media Luna Feasibility Study", which has an effective date of March 16, 2022, the Company's annual information form ("AIF") for the year ended December 31, 2024 and management's discussion and analysis ("MD&A") for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025 . Forward-Looking Information is based on the reasonable assumptions, estimates, analyses and opinions of management made in light of its experience and perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, and other factors that management believes are relevant and reasonable in the circumstances at the date such statements are made. Although the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the Forward-Looking Information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated. There can be no assurance that such information will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on Forward-Looking Information. The Company does not undertake to update any Forward-Looking Information, whether as a result of new information or future events or otherwise, except as may be required by applicable securities laws. The Technical Report, AIF, and MD&A are filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and on the Company's website at www.torexgold.com.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/274977

SOURCE: Torex Gold Resources Inc.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - AbraSilver Resource Corp. (TSX: ABRA) (OTCQX: ABBRF) ("AbraSilver" or the "Company") is pleased to announce new assay results from four drill holes from the ongoing Phase V exploration program at its wholly-owned Diablillos project in Argentina (the "Project"). These latest results continue to expand oxide-hosted high-grade gold mineralization at Oculto East while also confirming the presence of near-surface broad gold and copper mineralization in the upper portions of a porphyry system at Cerro Viejo.

Highlight Drill Results - Widths are reported as drilled; true widths are not yet known.

Cerro Viejo : Both holes drilled at Cerro Viejo intersected continuous gold mineralization from surface, interpreted to represent the upper levels of a mineralized porphyry system: DDH 25-050: 128.0 metres ("m") at 0.24 g/t gold from surface DDH 25-056: 200.0 m grading 0.32 g/t gold from surface, including: 10.0 m at 1.10 g/t (oxides, from 21 m downhole) 11.0 m at 0.33 g/t gold and 0.46% copper (sulphides, from 49 m)





: Both holes drilled at Cerro Viejo intersected continuous gold mineralization from surface, interpreted to represent the upper levels of a mineralized porphyry system: Oculto East: Both holes intersected broad zones of oxide gold mineralization, with DDH 25-078 returning multiple high-grade intervals and DDH 25-081 confirming additional consistent gold zones within the broader mineralized corridor, which drilling continues to expand. Importantly, holes 78 and 81 represent two distinct sub-parallel zones of mineralization at Oculto East, located approximately 500 metres apart, further demonstrating the scale and continuity of this system. DDH 25-078 returned several high-grade gold intercepts within a ~100-metre-thick mineralized package, including: 25.0 m grading 1.67 g/t gold (from 178 m) including 2.0 m at 11.14 g/t gold; 6.0 m grading 4.64 g/t gold (211 m); 36.0 m grading 2.32 g/t gold (240 m) including 11.0 m grading 3.76 g/t gold DDH 25-081 also encountered several oxide gold zones, including: 8.0 m grading 0.76 g/t gold (267 m); 10.0 m grading 0.72 g/t gold (341 m);

Both holes intersected broad zones of oxide gold mineralization, with DDH 25-078 returning multiple high-grade intervals and DDH 25-081 confirming additional consistent gold zones within the broader mineralized corridor, which drilling continues to expand. Importantly, holes 78 and 81 represent two distinct sub-parallel zones of mineralization at Oculto East, located approximately 500 metres apart, further demonstrating the scale and continuity of this system.

John Miniotis, President and CEO, commented, "Our drilling continues to deliver excellent results across multiple high-priority targets at Diablillos. At Oculto East, we are consistently intersecting thick zones of high-grade oxide gold mineralization that continue to expand the known mineralized footprint. In parallel, the initial results from Cerro Viejo highlight the potential for a robust gold-copper porphyry system. Together, these results underscore the strong growth potential across the broader Diablillos project."

Dave O'Connor, Chief Geologist, commented, "Oculto East continues to deliver strong, consistent oxide gold intercepts, pointing to a large, continuous extension of the mineralized system. At the same time, drilling at Cerro Viejo confirms we are in the upper levels of a significant gold-copper porphyry, and we are currently drilling a deeper hole targeting the potential porphyry source."

Table 1 - Summary of Key Drill Intercepts: Cerro Viejo & Oculto East

Intercepts greater than 25 gram-metres gold shown in bolded text:

Drill Hole Area From

(m) To

(m) Type Interval

(m) Ag

g/t Au

g/t Cu

% DDH-25-050 Cerro Viejo 1.0 129.0 Mixed 128.0 - 0.24 - DDH-25-056 Cerro Viejo 0.0 200.0 Mixed 200.0 - 0.32 0.04

Including 21.0 31.0 Oxides 10.0 - 1.10 -

Including 49.0 60.0 Sulphides 11.0 5.3 0.33 0.46 DDH-25-078 Oculto East 178.0 203.0 Oxides 25.0 10.1 1.67 -

Including 190.0 192.0 Oxides 2.0 29.8 11.14 -



211.0 217.0 Oxides 6.0 16.0 4.64 -



221.0 222.0 Oxides 1.0 3.9 1.32 -



240.0 276.0 Oxides 36.0 12.1 2.32 -

Including 265.0 276.0 Oxides 11.0 13.7 3.76 -



304.0 306.0 Oxides 2.0 31.5 0.62 - DDH-25-081 Oculto East 210.0 220.0 Oxides 10.0 2.0 0.35 -



246.0 249.0 Oxides 3.0 4.8 0.74 -



261.0 262.0 Oxides 1.0 3.4 1.51 -



267.0 275.0 Oxides 8.0 2.6 0.76 -



325.0 329.0 Oxides 4.0 4.0 0.85 -



341.0 351.0 Oxides 10.0 4.6 0.72 -



363.0 364.0 Oxides 1.0 8.7 1.09 -

Note: All results in this news release are rounded. Assays are uncut & undiluted. Widths are drilled widths, not true widths. True widths are unknown.





Figure 1 -Plan View of Drill Results



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11792/275010_4c1e4e3214b949c7_001full.jpg

Additional Details on Drill Results - Cerro Viejo

The two holes drilled at Cerro Viejo both encountered broad zones of gold mineralization, with associated copper within dacitic porphyry units. The gold mineralisation is hosted in d-type quartz-pyrite veins in sericite-pyrite alteration of the host rock, indicative of porphyry style alteration. These results confirm that the current drilling is testing the upper portions of a large porphyry system. Deeper drilling is underway to evaluate the underlying porphyry source responsible for the mineralization.





Figure 2 - Section Through Latest Drill Holes at Cerro Viejo



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11792/275010_4c1e4e3214b949c7_002full.jpg

Note: Widths are drilled widths, not true widths. True widths are unknown.

Drill hole DDH 24-056 has been previously announced by the Company and are shown here for illustrative purposes.

Additional Details on Drill Results - Oculto East

Drilling at Oculto East continues to demonstrate broad, continuous intervals of oxide-hosted gold mineralization extending beyond the eastern margin of the current conceptual open pit. The standout intercepts in DDH 25-078 reflect strong grade continuity across multiple stacked zones within a large, coherent mineralized envelope. Importantly, holes 78 and 81 outline two separate mineralized zones located approximately 500 metres apart, underscoring both the scale of the system and the potential for multiple parallel high-grade structures. This spatial separation further highlights the robustness and continuity of mineralization across Oculto East. Additional assay results from nearby holes are pending, and drilling is ongoing to further delineate the extent of this expanding zone.

A deep hole (completed to a downhole depth of 1,025m) has been drilled at Oculto East to test porphyry style mineralisation beneath the high sulphide epithermal zone. It was targeted to intercept elevated molybdenum mineralisation associated with gold intersected in shallower drilling. Elevated molybdenum grades are an important vector and strong geological marker when targeting potential porphyry centers, and the molybdenum is interpreted as representing the cap above a porphyry system. Assay results are pending and will be released once received.





Figure 3 - Section Through Latest Drill Holes at Oculto East



To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/11792/275010_4c1e4e3214b949c7_003full.jpg

Note: Widths are drilled widths, not true widths. True widths are unknown.

Drill holes: DDH 25-024, 25-077 and 24-064 have been previously announced by the Company and are shown here for illustrative purposes.

RIGI Application and Definitive Feasibility Study ("DFS")

The Company has now completed all required work for the application under Argentina's Large Investment Incentive Regime ("RIGI"), which is expected to be formally submitted in the near-term. RIGI is a new federal investment framework designed to attract and accelerate major development projects by providing long-term fiscal stability and a competitive suite of tax, customs, and foreign-exchange benefits.

The design and engineering work for the DFS is nearing completion and planning for early works activities is advancing on schedule. Metallurgical test work and all site investigation activities are completed, with final optimization parameters established for the updated open pit mine plan. The technical team is preparing for third party reviews at the 80% completion milestone over the coming weeks. The DFS remains on track for completion in H1 2026, at which time the project will be ready to advance with early works activities and a final investment decision.

Collar Data

Hole Number UTM Coordinates Elevation Azimuth Dip Depth (m) Area DDH 25-050 723697 7202736 4,059 0 -75 190 Cerro Viejo DDH 25-056 723608 7202742 4,068 0 -80 200 Cerro Viejo DDH 25-078 720763 7199638 4,335 180 -65 326 Oculto East DDH 25-081 721343 7199382 4,591 110 -60 365 Oculto East

About Diablillos

The Diablillos property is located within the Puna region of Argentina, in the southern part of Salta Province along the border with Catamarca Province, approximately 160 km southwest of the city of Salta and 375 km northwest of the city of Catamarca. AbraSilver acquired the property in 2016, which comprises 15 contiguous and overlapping mineral concessions with excellent year-round road access.

Exploration to date has outlined multiple occurrences of silver-gold oxide mineralization at Oculto, JAC, Laderas, and Fantasma, located within a 500 m to 1.5 km distance surrounding the Oculto/JAC epicentre. To date, over 150,000 metres have been drilled on the property, which continues to demonstrate the strong growth potential of shallow, oxide-hosted silver and gold resources. In addition, a large porphyry complex is centered approximately 4 km northeast of Oculto which includes outcropping porphyry intrusions within a major zone of alteration and associated gold rich epithermal mineralization.

Comparatively nearby examples of high sulphidation epithermal deposits include: La Coipa (Chile); Yanacocha (Peru); El Indio (Chile); Lagunas Nortes/Alto Chicama (Peru) Veladero (Argentina); and Filo del Sol (Argentina). The most recent Mineral Resource estimate for Diablillos is shown in Table 2:

Table 2 - Diablillos Mineral Resource Estimate - As of July 21, 2025



Zone Category Tonnes

(000 t) Ag

(g/t) Au

(g/t) AgEq

(g/t) Contained Ag

(000 Oz Ag) Contained Au

(000 Oz Ag) Contained AgEq

(000 Oz Ag)

Tank Leach Oxides Measured 26,545 119 0.71 183 101,564 604 156,487 Indicated 46,584 56 0.63 114 84,430 948 170,592 Measured & 73,129 79 0.66 139 185,994 1,553 327,078 Indicated Inferred 9,693 34 0.57 86 10,616 176 26,647 Heap Leach Oxides Measured 6,673 16 0.14 25 3,486 30 5,342 Indicated 24,102 12 0.17 23 9,163 133 17,506 Measured & 30,774 13 0.16 23 12,649 162 22,848 Indicated













Inferred 10,024 9 0.20 21 2,811 64 6,850 Total Oxides Measured 33,218 98 0.59 152 105,050 634 161,829 Indicated 70,686 41 0.48 83 93,593 1,081 188,098 Measured & 103,904 59 0.51 105 198,643 1,715 349,927 Indicated













Inferred 19,628 21 0.38 53 13,427 241 33,496

Footnotes for Tank Leach Resource:

Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and have not demonstrated economic viability. The formula for calculating AgEq is as follows: Silver Eq Oz = Silver Oz + Gold Oz x (Gold Price/Silver Price) x (Gold Recovery/Silver Recovery). The Mineral Resource model was populated using Ordinary Kriging grade estimation within a three-dimensional block model and mineralized zones defined by wireframed solids, which are a combination of lithology and alteration domains. The 1m composite grades were capped where appropriate. The Mineral Resource is reported inside a conceptual Whittle open pit shell derived using US$ 27.50/oz Ag price, US $2,400/oz Au price, 83% process recovery for Ag, and 87% process recovery for Au. The constraining open pit optimization parameters used were US $1.94/t mining cost, US $22.96/t processing cost, US $3.32/t G&A cost, and average 51-degree open pit slopes. The MRE has been categorized in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards (CIM, 2014). A Net Value per block [NVB] calculation was used to constrain the Mineral Resource, determine the "Benefits = Income-Cost", where, Income = [(Au Selling Price (US$/oz) - Au Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Au grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Au Recovery (%)] + [(Ag Selling Price (US$/oz) - Ag Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Ag grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Ag Recovery (%)] and Cost = Mining Cost (US$/t) + Process Cost (US$/t) + Transport Cost (US$/t) + G&A Cost (US$/t) + [Royalty Cost (%) x Income] The Mineral Resource is sub-horizontal with sub-vertical feeders and a reasonable prospect for eventual economic extraction by open pit and tank leach processing methods. In-situ bulk density were assigned to each model domain, according to samples averages for each lithology domain, separated by alteration zones and subset by oxidation. All tonnages reported are dry metric tonnes and ounces of contained gold are troy ounces. Mining recovery and dilution factors have not been applied to the Mineral Resource estimates. The Mineral Resource was estimated by Luis Rodrigo Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo), Independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Peralta is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues that could materially affect the potential development of the Mineral Resource. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Minor discrepancies may occur due to rounding to appropriate significant figures.

Footnotes for Heap Leach Resource:

Mineral Resources are not Mineral Reserves and have not demonstrated economic viability. The formula for calculating AgEq is as follows: Silver Eq Oz = Silver Oz + Gold Oz x (Gold Price/Silver Price) x (Gold Recovery/Silver Recovery). The Mineral Resource model was populated using Ordinary Kriging grade estimation within a three-dimensional block model and mineralized zones defined by wireframed solids, which are a combination of lithology and alteration domains. The 1m composite grades were capped where appropriate. The Mineral Resource is reported inside a conceptual Whittle open pit shell derived using US$ 27.50/oz Ag price, US $2,400/oz Au price, 80% process recovery for Ag, and 58% process recovery for Au. The constraining open pit optimization parameters used and overall operational cost of US $11.31/t. The MRE has been categorized in accordance with the CIM Definition Standards (CIM, 2014). A Net Value per block [NVB] calculation was used to constrain the Mineral Resource, determine the "Benefits = Income-Cost", where, Income = [(Au Selling Price (US$/oz) - Au Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Au grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Au Recovery (%)] + [(Ag Selling Price (US$/oz) - Ag Selling Cost (USD/Oz)) x (Ag grade (g/t)/31.1035)) x Ag Recovery (%)] and Cost = Mining Cost (US$/t) + Process Cost (US$/t) + Transport Cost (US$/t) + G&A Cost (US$/t) + [Royalty Cost (%) x Income] In-situ bulk density were assigned to each model domain, according to samples averages for each lithology domain, separated by alteration zones and subset by oxidation. All tonnages reported are dry metric tonnes and ounces of contained gold are troy ounces. Mining recovery and dilution factors have not been applied to the Mineral Resource estimates. The Mineral Resource was estimated by Mr. Peralta, B.Sc., FAusIMM CP (Geo), Independent Qualified Person under NI 43-101. Mr. Peralta is not aware of any environmental, permitting, legal, title, taxation, socio-political, marketing, or other relevant issues that could materially affect the potential development of the Mineral Resource. All figures are rounded to reflect the relative accuracy of the estimates. Minor discrepancies may occur due to rounding to appropriate significant figures.

QA/QC and Core Sampling Protocols

AbraSilver applies industry standard exploration methodologies and techniques, and all drill core samples are collected under the supervision of the Company's geologists in accordance with industry best practices. Drill core is transported from the drill platform to the logging facility where drill data is compared and verified with the core in the trays. Thereafter, it is logged, photographed, and split by diamond saw prior to being sampled. Samples are then bagged, and quality control materials are inserted at regular intervals at site; these include blanks and certified reference materials as well as duplicate core samples which are collected in order to assess sampling precision and reproducibility. Groups of samples are then placed in large bags which are sealed with numbered tags in order to maintain a chain-of-custody during the transport of the samples from the project site to the laboratory.

All samples are received by the ASA (Alex Stewart Argentina) preparation laboratory in Salta, where they are prepared, then the pulp sachet is directly dispatched to its facility in Mendoza, Argentina, where they are analyzed. All samples are analyzed using a multi-element technique consisting of a four-acid digestion followed by ICP/AES detection, and gold is analyzed by 50g Fire Assay with an AAS finish. Silver results greater than 100g/t are re-analyzed using four acid digestion with an ore grade AAS finish.

Qualified Persons

David O'Connor P.Geo., Chief Geologist for AbraSilver, is the Qualified Person as defined by National Instrument 43-101 Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects, and he has reviewed and approved the scientific and technical information in this news release.

About AbraSilver

AbraSilver is an advanced-stage exploration company focused on rapidly advancing its 100%-owned Diablillos silver-gold project in the mining-friendly Salta province of Argentina. The current Measured and Indicated Mineral Resource estimate for Diablillos (tank leach-only) consists of 73.1 Mt grading 79 g/t Ag and 0.66 g/t Au, containing approximately 186Moz silver and 1.6Moz gold, with significant further upside potential based on recent exploration drilling. The Company is led by an experienced management team and has long-term supportive shareholders. In addition, the Company has an earn-in option and joint venture agreement with Teck on the La Coipita project, located in the San Juan province of Argentina. AbraSilver is listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "ABRA" and in the U.S. on the OTCQX under the symbol "ABBRF."

For further information please visit the AbraSilver Resource website at www.abrasilver.com, our LinkedIn page at AbraSilver Resource Corp., and follow us on X at www.x.com/abrasilver

Cautionary Statements

This news release includes certain "forward-looking statements" under applicable Canadian securities legislation. Forward-looking statements are necessarily based upon a number of estimates and assumptions that, while considered reasonable, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors which may cause the actual results and future events to differ materially from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. All statements that address future plans, activities, events or developments that the Company believes, expects or anticipates will or may occur are forward-looking information. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. When considering this forward-looking information, readers should keep in mind the risk factors and other cautionary statements in the Company's disclosure documents filed with the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. The risk factors and other factors noted in the disclosure documents could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those described in any forward-looking information. The Company disclaims any intention or obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, except as required by law.

Neither the TSX nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275010

SOURCE: AbraSilver Resource Corp.
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Glow Lifetech Corp. (CSE: GLOW) (OTCID: GLWLF) (FSE: 9DO) ("Glow" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has achieved debt-free status, eliminating all outstanding debt and further strengthening its already strong balance sheet and financial flexibility. This milestone marks an important step in Glow's ongoing commitment to disciplined financial management positioning the business for long-term sustainable growth.

Over the past 18 months, Glow has made consistent progress improving its financial position through strategic debt reduction and operational efficiency. The Company has fully eliminated its remaining $368,509 in long-term debt and demand loans, further strengthening its balance sheet, reducing interest expenses, and enabling Glow to channel more cash flow directly into the growth initiatives. Since Q3 2024, Glow has reduced over $1.4 million in debt, reflecting the Company's disciplined financial management and commitment to operational efficiency, which has transformed its balance sheet to pave the way for long-term growth opportunities.

"Achieving debt-free status marks a significant milestone for Glow and a defining shift in our balance sheet from just one year ago," said Rob Carducci, CEO of Glow Lifetech. "By eliminating all debt, we've substantially strengthened our financial foundation, reduced interest expenses, and created more flexibility to invest in growth initiatives that matter most. This positions Glow to execute our growth agenda with confidence, continue strengthening our brands, and build sustainable long-term value for shareholders."

With a solid financial foundation and strong operating fundamentals, Glow is well-positioned to advance its national growth strategy, scale its category-leading brands, and continue progressing towards sustainable profitability.

SUBSCRIBE: For more information on Glow or to subscribe to the Company's mail list visit: https://www.glowlifetech.com/news

About Glow Lifetech Corp

Glow Lifetech is a Canadian-based biotechnology company focused on producing nutraceutical and cannabinoid-based products with dramatically enhanced bioavailability, absorption and effectiveness. Glow has a groundbreaking, plant-based MyCell Technology delivery system, which transforms poorly absorbed natural compounds into enhanced water-compatible concentrates that unlock the full healing potential of the valuable compounds.

Website: www.glowlifetech.com

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains statements which constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws, including statements regarding the plans, intentions, beliefs and current expectations of the Company with respect to future activities. Forward- looking information is often identified by the words "may," "would," "could," "should," "will," "intend," "plan," "anticipate," "believe," "estimate," "expect" or similar expressions and include information regarding: (i) statements regarding the future direction of the Company (ii) the ability of the Company to successfully achieve its business and financial objectives, and (iii) expectations for other economic, business, and/or competitive factors. Investors are cautioned that forward-looking information is not based on historical facts but instead reflect the Company's management's expectations, estimates or projections concerning the business of the Company's future results or events based on the opinions, assumptions and estimates of management considered reasonable at the date the statements are made. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in such forward-looking information are reasonable, such information involves risks and uncertainties, and undue reliance should not be placed on such information, as unknown or unpredictable factors could have material adverse effects on future results, performance or achievements of the combined company. Among the key factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information are the following: changes in general economic, business and political conditions, including changes in the financial markets; and in particular in the ability of the Company to raise debt and equity capital in the amounts and at the costs that it expects; adverse changes in the public perception of the Company's products; decreases in the prevailing prices for the Company's products; adverse changes in applicable laws; or adverse changes in the application or enforcement of current laws; compliance with extensive government regulation and related costs, and other risks described in the Company's public disclosure documents filed on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should assumptions underlying the forward-looking information prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those described herein as intended, planned, anticipated, believed, estimated or expected. Although the Company has attempted to identify important risks, uncertainties and factors which could cause actual results to differ materially, there may be others that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. The Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update this forward-looking information except as otherwise required by applicable law.

No stock exchange, securities commission or other regulatory authority has approved or disapproved the information contained herein.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275032

SOURCE: Glow Lifetech Corp.
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - American Tungsten Corp. (CSE: TUNG) (OTCQB: TUNGF) (FSE: RK90) ("American Tungsten" or the "Company") is pleased to announce key strategic appointments.

Carolyn Loder Joins Board of Directors

The Company welcomes Carolyn Loder to its Board of Directors. Ms. Loder brings decades of leadership in mineral rights, permitting, and stakeholder engagement, having served in senior roles across both private and public sectors. Her expertise in navigating complex regulatory landscapes and building consensus among diverse interest groups will be instrumental as American Tungsten scales its operations. Ms. Loder currently serves as a Director for Integra Resources (NYSE: ITRG) and K2 Gold (TSXV: KTO), and is a Board Advisor to Kodiak Copper. In 2023, she became the first living woman-and first woman in more than a century-to be inducted into the U.S. National Mining Hall of Fame.

As a key member of American Tungsten's management team, Mr. Austin Zinsser will step down from the Board of Directors, and will be focusing all of his efforts on his continuing role as Vice President of Exploration.

Michael Zehr Appointed Strategic Advisor

The Company has appointed Michael Zehr as a Strategic Advisor. With a distinguished background in government affairs, critical minerals policy, and capital markets, Mr. Zehr will support the Company's engagement with U.S. federal and state agencies as tungsten continues to gain recognition as a critical mineral essential to national security and industrial resilience. His expertise will be instrumental in advancing American Tungsten's permitting, funding, and strategic positioning initiatives within the evolving geopolitical landscape.

Appoints New Independent Auditor

The Board of American Tungsten has approved the appointment of a new independent auditor, Davidson & Company LLP, registered with both the Canadian Public Accountability Board (CPAB) and the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (PCAOB). This change reflects the Company's commitment to enhance financial governance and regulatory compliance, and will help position American Tungsten for its planned uplisting to a senior U.S. exchange. The new auditor brings deep experience in cross-border reporting and public company audit standards, aligning with the Company's growth trajectory and institutional readiness.

The Company also announces that Murray Nye will be stepping down from the role of President and will move to Advisor. The Board and Management at American Tungsten Corp would like to extend their sincere gratitude for Mr. Nye's leadership and contribution to the Company, and look forward to his guidance as we progress.

"The addition of Carolyn Loder to our Board of Directors, alongside other recent appointments, reinforces American Tungsten's commitment to assembling a world-class leadership team," stated Ali Haji, CEO of American Tungsten. "These appointments strengthen our strategic capabilities as we advance the IMA Mine Project in Idaho and accelerate our mission to establish American Tungsten as a premier North American source of critical minerals."

ABOUT AMERICAN TUNGSTEN CORP.

American Tungsten Corp. is a Canadian exploration company focused on high-potential tungsten and magnetite assets in North America. The Company is advancing the Ima Mine Project in Idaho to commercial production, addressing critical metal scarcity in North America. The Company's Ima Mine Project is a historic and high-quality underground tungsten past-producing property on private-patented land well above the water table with significant infrastructure. The Company holds an exclusive option to acquire full ownership (subject to a 2% royalty) and has expanded its land position with 113 additional federal claims covering nearly 2,000 acres.

CSE: TUNG

OTCQB: TUNGF

FSE: RK90

The Canadian Securities Exchange does not accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release and has neither approved nor disapproved the contents of this press release.

This news release includes "forward-looking information" that is subject to a number of assumptions, risks and uncertainties, many of which are beyond the control of the Company. Forward-looking statements may include but are not limited to, statements relating to the completion of the Offering on the terms described herein or at all, and the use of proceeds and available funds following the completion of the Offering and are subject to all of the risks and uncertainties normally incident to such events. Investors are cautioned that any such statements are not guarantees of future events and that actual events or developments may differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking statements. Such forward-looking statements represent management's best judgment based on information currently available. No securities regulatory authority has either approved or disapproved of the contents of this news release. The Company undertake no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements, except as may be required by law.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275131

SOURCE: American Tungsten Corp.
Voice-driven execution, intelligent automation, and maintenance-trained agents bring a new level of productivity to industrial sectors.

MONTREAL, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Verosoft, a global leader in Enterprise Asset Management (EAM) solutions built on Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, today announced the launch of mobiMentor AI, the first Agentic AI ecosystem purpose-built to handle real maintenance work, not just answer questions.

Maintenance teams today face shrinking labor pools, increasing equipment complexity, and growing pressure to improve uptime with fewer resources. Much of their day is still consumed by admin tasks. mobiMentor AI introduces a new category of technology for the industrial sector: AI that takes action on behalf of the user.

"Technicians spend too much time fighting the system instead of fixing the equipment," said Alexis Turgeon, Director of Innovation at Verosoft. "mobiMentor AI acts as an operational partner. If a technician says, 'Close this work order' or 'Create a work request for that pump,' the system simply does it. It turns natural language into real, completed work. This is the future of maintenance, and it puts time back where it matters."

Bringing Agentic AI to the Shop Floor

Agentic AI surpasses chatbots by enabling systems to execute tasks autonomously. mobiMentor AI applies this capability directly to maintenance and asset management operations, combining five core capabilities:

AI that takes action

Automates updates, generates work orders, creates reports, and completes tasks directly inside TAG Mobi and Business Central.

Automates updates, generates work orders, creates reports, and completes tasks directly inside TAG Mobi and Business Central. AI that understands maintenance

Specialized agents trained on real EAM and reliability data, offering contextually relevant insights and recommendations.

Specialized agents trained on real EAM and reliability data, offering contextually relevant insights and recommendations. AI that adapts in real time

Adjusts its responses based on asset history, condition, environment, and operational context.

Adjusts its responses based on asset history, condition, environment, and operational context. No-code workflow automation

Maintenance managers can build and customize AI-powered workflows without technical skills, accelerating continuous improvement.

Maintenance managers can build and customize AI-powered workflows without technical skills, accelerating continuous improvement. Voice-enabled execution

Technicians can retrieve information, update records, and trigger workflows hands-free, reducing administrative load during field work.

Trust, Transparency, and Control at Every Step

Industrial organizations require AI they can control. mobiMentor AI was engineered with strict safeguards:

Zero data retention by default , ensuring proprietary information is never stored or reused

, ensuring proprietary information is never stored or reused Human-in-the-loop approvals to confirm, revise, or reject suggested actions

to confirm, revise, or reject suggested actions Purpose-built training data , derived from real-world maintenance and EAM scenarios

, derived from real-world maintenance and EAM scenarios Clear auditability, allowing leaders to verify actions and workflows triggered by AI

A Strategic Advantage for Microsoft Partners and Customers

Fully integrated with The Asset Guardian (TAG) Mobi, embedded in Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central, mobiMentor AI brings intelligent automation beyond the maintenance module to support connected operations. This allows Microsoft partners to deploy tailored, action-oriented AI systems that complement their existing BC implementations.

"Our commitment is to help organizations scale expertise, increase wrench time, and reduce operational costs," said Martin Turgeon, President of Verosoft. "By combining natural language with action-driven intelligence, mobiMentor AI strengthens resilience on the shop floor and gives teams a practical, immediate edge."

Learn more at verosoftdesign.com/features/mobimentor-ai

About Verosoft

Proudly Canadian, Verosoft is a global software company dedicated to helping asset-intensive organizations achieve operational excellence through intuitive, intelligent solutions. Its flagship product, The Asset Guardian (TAG) Mobi EAM, empowers organizations to manage, maintain, and optimize physical assets across various industries, including manufacturing, facility management, renewable energy, transportation, and more. Visit verosoftdesign.com for details.

Media Contact: Louis-Philippe Tremblay, marketing@verosoftdesign.com

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Gartner reports a 1,445% surge in MAS inquiries from 1Q24 to 2Q25, while vendors and investors are accelerating their investments in multiagent frameworks and interoperability standards.* ScriptRunner, is expanding its enterprise-grade automation leadership to meet the demand.

ETTLINGEN, Germany, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ScriptRunner, the industry leader for Microsoft Automation, is set to unveil its enterprise-grade Agentic Automation Platform, purpose-built for Microsoft ecosystems, at Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conference 2025 (IOCS) in Las Vegas, 9-11 December 2025.

This new system integrates seamlessly with Azure, M365, AWS, VMware and other systems, with the aim to accelerate time to value through centralized, policy-driven automation, secured by zero-touch operations and secure delegation.

Designed to eliminate silos, reduce operational risk, and restore governance across IT and AI operations, the platform empowers CIOs, IT leaders, and technical teams to achieve measurable KPI gains, faster innovation, and strategic enablement.

With over 10 years of experience and more than 200 enterprise customers worldwide, ScriptRunner is recognized as a trusted vendor in highly regulated industries such as financial services, manufacturing, healthcare, and government.

ScriptRunner CEO & Founder, Frank Kresse, said: "Gartner's spotlight on multiagent AI systems confirms what our customers already know: the future of IT is autonomous, integrated, and governed, and ScriptRunner is leading that future.

This is a pivotal moment not just for us, but for every enterprise navigating the complexity of Microsoft ecosystems. With Agentic Automation at play, ScriptRunner maximizes the value it delivers in real, measurable outcomes by eliminating silos, restoring governance, and accelerating time to value through secure, policy-driven automation."

Attendees at Gartner IOCS 2025 are invited to visit ScriptRunner at Booth 534 and experience Agentic Automation for Microsoft Ecosystems for the first time in live demos, meet the team, and explore how ScriptRunner can transform their IT operations.

Visitors are also welcome to join ScriptRunner's Theater Session at Wednesday, December 10, 2025 at 06:00 PM, ScriptRunner Software: The Platform for Agentic Automation in Microsoft Ecosystems, and hear from Co-Founder, Clemens Feigl, about the impact Microsoft Automation is set to have on both day-to-day IT operations and strategic initiatives of global enterprises.

To learn more, visit: www.scriptrunner.com

Not attending Gartner IOCS? Reach out to us at www.scriptrunner.com/contact-us

*Gartner, Top Strategic Technology Trends for 2026: Multiagent Systems, 18 October 2025

GARTNER is a registered trademark and service mark of Gartner, Inc. and/or its affiliates in the U.S. and internationally and is used herein with permission. All rights reserved.

About the Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conference

Gartner analysts will provide additional analysis on cloud strategies and infrastructure and operations trends at the Gartner IT Infrastructure, Operations & Cloud Strategies Conferences 2025 taking place December 9-11, 2025, in Las Vegas.

Follow news and updates from these conferences on X using GartnerIO.

About ScriptRunner

ScriptRunner is the #1 Microsoft Automation Platform - empowering enterprises to operationalize agentic automation across Microsoft ecosystems with security, speed, and control.

The ScriptRunner Platform unifies PowerShell and policy-driven automation under one roof, enabling organizations to turn their existing scripts into compliant, auditable automation workflows.

With a centralized, secure, and policy-driven architecture, ScriptRunner helps IT leaders balance autonomy and governance - accelerating time to value while ensuring full visibility and compliance.

Trusted by more than 200 enterprise customers worldwide and built 100% on Microsoft technology, ScriptRunner is the enterprise-grade automation foundation for modern IT operations.

Visit www.scriptrunner.com to learn more.

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---ENDS---



About the Polhem Prize (Polhemspriset)



Christopher Polhem (1661-1751) was one of Sweden's most prominent innovators of all time. Every year, the Swedish Association of Graduate Engineers awards the Polhem Prize - Sweden's oldest technical award. The prize was established in 1876 and next year the Polhem Prize celebrates its 150th anniversary. The Polhem Prize is awarded for high-level technical innovation or for an ingenious solution to a technical problem. The innovation must be available on the open market and be competitive. Previous Polhem Prize winners include Baltzar von Platen and Carl Munthers for the refrigerator (1925), Hakan Lans for colour graphics and transponder for positioning systems with GPS (1995), Petra Wadstrom for the water purifier Solvatten (2013), Ludvig Strigeus for the technology behind Spotify (2020) and Christopher Ahlberg and Staffan Truve for the cyber protection Recorded Future (2023). https://polhemspriset.se/ (https://polhemspriset.se/)



About Icomera



For over two decades, Icomera has been the world's leading provider of onboard connectivity solutions. We enable millions of passengers to connect every day with the fastest, most reliable and secure Internet connection currently available to a moving vehicle. Today our networks have the power to fully integrate tens of thousands of vehicles into the cloud, paving the way for a vibrant new world of smart, connected transportation. In the future, our network connectivity will empower a bold new generation of safer, more efficient and sustainable transport solutions. We aim to be the partner of choice for those on the smart, connected journey that lies ahead.



A wholly owned subsidiary of Equans, Icomera is headquartered in Gothenburg, Sweden, operating across Europe and North America with key offices in the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy, the United States and Canada. Icomera.com (https://www.icomera.com/)



About Equans and Equans France



A subsidiary of the Bouygues group, Equans is a global leader in the energy and services sector. In France, Equans France relies on its historical brands Ineo, Axima, and Bouygues Energies & Services, as well as a strong territorial presence, to support companies, local authorities, and industries in facing the challenges of the triple energy, industrial, and digital transition. Able to operate at every stage of the project lifecycle, Equans France mobilizes its 35,000 employees to design, install, and provide tailor-made solutions that optimize clients' equipment and usage, thereby improving the energy performance and efficiency of infrastructures. Its expertise covers electrical and climate engineering, refrigeration, fire safety, facility management, multi-technical maintenance, IT, telecommunications, and digital solutions. Globally, the Equans group is present in 20 countries with 90,000 employees across 5 continents and generated revenue of 19.2 billion euros in 2024. In the same vein, its subsidiary Equans France achieved revenue of 7.2 billion euros in 2024 and operates in nearly 30 different countries. www.equans.fr (http://www.equans.fr) | www.equans.com (https://www.equans.com/)



Image: Mats Karlsson, Chief Technology Officer, Icomera (View Full Resolution (https://www.icomera.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/Mats-Karlsson.jpg))
LUGANO, Switzerland, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On November 14th, BE OPEN think-tank presented a report on the outcome of its latest student competition at the HiHouse studio in the Green zone of the UN Climate Change Conference COP30.

BE OPEN presented pitches by all five winners and winning teams of Designing Future 2050, the recently finalised global student competition encouraging young creatives to reframe and update the SDG agenda based on today's realities. The project aimed to inspire them to go beyond the 2030 agenda, and actively participate in developing and implementing realistic and sustainable action plans favourable for their own future.

BE OPEN Founder Elena Baturina preceded the pitches with an address: "The future rests on the shoulders of young people and for them to be able to address the serious challenges ahead, we must give them the necessary knowledge, skills and tools, teach them to navigate through the local and global issues, and to lead the change to a more sustainable world for us all. That is why for the past six years, we have worked with schools and universities all over the world to help raise awareness of the SDGs and contribute to achieving them via recognizing and promoting the best sustainable ideas created by the youth. And this conference is an outstanding opportunity to connect talented young people all over the world with decision-makers and offer them an array of opportunities."

Designing Futures 2050 became the 6th international competition held by BE OPEN since 2019, after ones dedicated to SDGs #2, #7, #11, #12, #13 and #17. They all aimed to involve students and recent graduates into the sustainable agenda, help 'implant' sustainable principles into the approaches, practices and ambitions of upcoming professionals and encourage them to create their own innovative solutions. The new, ongoing competition Design Equality with Innovation is dedicated to SDG#5, and will accept submissions till the end of the year 2025.

BE OPEN rewards the best work with monetary prizes, honorary mentions, publications, access to educational resources, and opportunities of pitching the winning projects at major sustainability-related international events. By providing opportunities for creative expression, collaboration, and learning, BE OPEN hopes to inspire young people to take ownership of shaping the future.

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LAS VEGAS, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Asia Broadband Inc. (OTC: AABB) ("AABB" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that, subsequent to its recent acquisition of reduced graphene oxide (rGO) nanotechnology for maximizing gold recovery, the Company has signed a Letter Of Intent (LOI) with a top-tier mining company for a future licensing agreement. AABB continues advanced negotiations with other Latin American precious metal producers regarding licensing and joint venture deployment of its proprietary rGO platform. As the technical due diligence of the rGO recovery system advances under the non-disclosure and non-competition agreements for the LOI company and other potential licensees, no further details will be released until a formal agreement has been completed.

"On top of the utilization of the rGO system for our own production efficiency and bottom line, the LOI and the ongoing discussions are playing out to be an amazing growth opportunity to monetize our intellectual property. As the negotiations move forward, we are evaluating multiple licensing structures that include exclusive territory rights, royalties per ounce recovered and technical joint venture models with revenue-sharing potential. The rGO system is an exciting leap forward in gold recovery efficiency that also aligns with our green mining goals. In addition to the rGO system licensing revenue model, we look forward to significantly boosting profitability from the AABB's existing and expanded production throughput into the future." expressed Chris Torres, President & CEO of Asia Broadband.

The Company is currently in the planning and development process to create a modular pilot unit at the Etzatlan, Mexico, production facility site. Subsequently, a 50 TPD rGO-based treatment line will be installed that will allow for data collection, optimization and eventual full-scale production integration.



Transformational Impact On Producers' Daily Production: The integration of rGO membrane systems at production facilities is expected to dramatically improve gold and silver recovery rates, particularly from low-grade or refractory ores and from tailings stockpiles.

Early-stage modeling suggests recovery efficiencies greater than 95% for Au3+ ions in complex leachate, using environmentally benign and non-cyanide leaching systems. This technology utilization is projected to increase net annual profits through:

Reduced gold loss in tailings

Higher purity of recovered metals

Lower chemical reagent costs

Closed-loop sustainability with reduced environmental footprint





Licensing and Scaling Opportunities: Beyond AABB's own operational benefits of the rGO system, the Company is in the process of licensing the technology to other producers Globally in an estimated $30 Billion dollar precious metals recovery market. Licensing structures under development include:

Flat fee and per-ton processed royalty models

Joint venture packages for remote ore processing

Mobile containerized units for artisanal or remote mining regions





About Asia Broadband



Asia Broadband Inc. (OTC: AABB) is a resource company focused on the production of precious metals and the accumulation of physical gold holdings. The Company utilizes its specific geographic expertise, experience and extensive industry contacts to facilitate the expansion of precious metals property holdings and production in Mexico. The Company's industry and business integration in Mexico and its asset diversification are unique strengths of AABB that differentiate it from other companies and creates distinctive value for shareholders. Additionally, the Company has a digital assets business segment with its AABBG mine-to-token gold-backed cryptocurrency within its own proprietary AABB Wallet and the unique Golden Baboons Mining Club and Shorts Rascal Club Non-Fungible Token (NFT) collections. AABB expects its token to become a world-wide standard of exchange that is stable, secured and trusted with gold backing, while having the added benefit of demand based price appreciation. These are unique and outstanding qualities relative to other cryptocurrencies and digital asset developers.

Contact the Company at:



General Email: ir@asiabroadbandinc.com Token Support: support@aabbgmine2token.com Company Websites: www.asiabroadbandinc.com www.aabbgmine2token.com www.goldenbaboons.com Phone: 702-744-4785

Forward-Looking Statements are contained in this press release within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These statements are based on the Asia Broadband Inc.'s (the "Company") expected current beliefs about the Company's business, which are subject to uncertainty and change. The operations and results of the Company could materially differ from what is expressed or implied by the statements made above when industry, regulatory, market and competitive circumstances change. Further information about these risks can be found in the annual and quarterly disclosures the Company has published on the OTC Markets website. The Company is under no obligation to update or alter its forward-looking statements as future circumstances, events and information may change.
Global policy shifts, economic pressures, and evolving student priorities are reshaping international education towards a more sustainable, student-focused future.

Kitchener, ON, Canada, Nov. 19, 2025, the leading international student mobility technology platform, today released its fifth annual Trends Report, titled " Top Trends in International Education for 2026 and Beyond: Building and Rebuilding Global Education. " The report explores how governments, institutions, and students are reshaping international education amid policy volatility, economic uncertainty, and evolving student priorities.

"Global education is at a turning point," said Meti Basiri, Co-Founder and CEO of ApplyBoard. "The appetite for studying abroad remains strong, but the pathways students are choosing and the questions they're asking have fundamentally changed. Across the sector, success will depend on our ability to rebuild trust, strengthen partnerships, and deliver meaningful outcomes for students and communities alike."

Drawing on global government data, exclusive student and international student counsellor surveys, and ApplyBoard's proprietary intelligence, this report examines how institutions are adapting to challenges like tightening visa policies, economic headwinds, and persistent housing shortages. It also highlights the rise of other study destinations and strategies for meeting student demand.

Key Findings and Projections for 2026

Volatile Demand for the "Big Four": Major English-speaking destinations like Canada, the US, the UK, and Australia are navigating reduced application volumes and increased policy scrutiny. Canada is projected to see a 54% decline in new international student visas in 2025 compared to 2024, with visa extensions outpacing new issuances. The US is projected to see an 18% decline in F-1 visas in 2025, with the nation's strong academic reputation helping to mitigate greater losses. Australia is forecasted to grant 15% fewer new student visas to offshore students in 2025, aligning with soft caps on commencements. The UK is the only "Big Four" country projected to maintain new student visa levels, consistent with 2024 totals, but may face tempered demand due to pending policy changes.





Major English-speaking destinations like Canada, the US, the UK, and Australia are navigating reduced application volumes and increased policy scrutiny. Non-Anglophone Destinations Seize the Opportunity: Other study destinations, particularly in Europe, are attracting more students by offering clear, stable pathways from study to work. Germany is set to exceed 400,000 international students, driven by a strong student-to-work transition and government investment into both affordable housing and talent acquisition in tech fields. France and Spain are also attracting record numbers. Both countries are clarifying work pathways, centralizing student housing, and simplifying the application process. New Zealand, South Korea, and the UAE are investing in extended post-study work rights and streamlined immigration processes.





Other study destinations, particularly in Europe, are attracting more students by offering from study to work. The Rise of the Discerning Student: Facing higher costs and a weaker global job outlook, students are prioritizing four factors: cost of studying, cost of living, and the ability to find work both during and after their studies. The perceived "welcomeness" of a destination is also key. Canada, Australia, and Germany cluster at the top of positive student sentiment. Students are leaning into technology-driven programs (IT, cybersecurity, data science) and healthcare programs that align with workforce needs.



Facing higher costs and a weaker global job outlook, students are prioritizing four factors:

Workforce pathways are the new differentiator: Institutions are shifting toward work-aligned programs. Governments are expanding work-integrated learning opportunities: Canada alone is funding 8,000 new work placements by 2028.





Institutions are shifting toward work-aligned programs. Governments are expanding work-integrated learning opportunities: Canada alone is funding 8,000 new work placements by 2028. Housing and well-being are defining competitiveness: As all major destinations face housing shortages, purpose-built student accommodations (PBSAs) are emerging as a key solution. At the same time, leading institutions are adopting "whole-institution" well-being models that build mental health and belonging into their campus experience.

"The next phase of global education will be defined by how we rebuild structurally and reputationally," said Meti Basiri, Co-Founder and CEO, ApplyBoard. "The institutions that will lead are investing in student success, such as making costs transparent and workforce readiness core to every program."





Learn what's next for international education in ApplyBoard's 2026 Trends Report.





About ApplyBoard

ApplyBoard empowers students around the world to access the best education by simplifying the study abroad search, application, and acceptance process to more than 1,500 institutions across Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom, Australia, Ireland and Germany. Headquartered in Kitchener, Ontario, Canada, ApplyBoard has helped over 1 million students from more than 150 countries along their educational journeys since 2015. To learn more, visit www.applyboard.com .

Attachments

ApplyBoard's 2026 Trends Report Reveals How Global Education Is Being Rebuilt (https://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/eaf1c8e5-d05a-41c5-9660-7db20c793e2e)

Top Trends in International Education for 2026 and Beyond: Building and Rebuilding Global Education (https://ml.globenewswire.com/Resource/Download/d95b36f2-0e83-49db-b9f5-3a780bdf81c3)

Raveena Desai ApplyBoard raveena.desai@applyboard.com
LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Apollo Art Auctions announces Fine Ancient Art & Antiquities - The Prince Collection, a forthcoming sale presenting works of exceptional quality and distinguished provenance. Day Two will offer an outstanding selection of Egyptian, Greek and Roman antiquities, including jewellery, pottery, weaponry, and marble sculpture, spanning the Pre-Dynastic era through the classical world.

Formed between the 1990s and 2014, The Prince Collection represents one of the most refined assemblages of its kind to appear on the market in recent years. Curated by a seasoned collector with notable royal associations, as well as other private collectors. The auction brings together works from esteemed provenances including Louis-Gabriel Bellon (1819-1899), Mr Asheroffe, the Verite Collection, and H.E. Sheikh Saud Bin Al-Thani, among others. Its offering reflects both connoisseurship and depth qualities that define major private collections and have long shaped the market for ancient art.

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

A centrepiece of the sale is Lot 510: an Egyptian Green Schist Bust of Osiris, a compelling and finely modelled representation of the god at the heart of ancient Egyptian belief. Osiris, the divine ruler of the underworld and emblem of resurrection, embodied renewal, kingship, and the enduring cycle of life tied to the annual rebirth of the Nile. His myth murder at the hands of Seth, restoration by Isis, and ascension as eternal judge remains one of the most powerful narratives in ancient religion.

This example is distinguished by an exceptional provenance: The Prince Collection (1990s-2014); ex Merrin Gallery, New York (1992); on loan to the Brooklyn Museum of Art (1992-1999); subsequently owned by H.E. Sheikh Saud Bin Al-Thani, with original purchase invoice, and cleared via the Art Loss Register.

Size: 220 mm x 135 mm | Weight: 2.1 kg

View the lot.

Another highlight is Lot 834: an Important Roman Marble Head of an Amazon, dated to around AD 150. This finely carved portrait represents a celebrated classical type widely reproduced during the imperial period. The centrally parted hair, sweeping in broad waves to a deep nape roll, is executed with precision, while the almond-shaped eyes, delicately rendered lids and softly modelled features demonstrate the refined workmanship characteristic of high-quality Roman sculpture. Depictions of Amazons figures who embodied both heroism and otherness were central to Greek myth, where they appeared in celebrated combats with Herakles, Achilles and Theseus.

Provenance: Private London collection; previously a European private collection assembled since the 1970s.

Size: 380 mm x 160 mm | Weight: 12.9 kg

View the lot.

Further noteworthy is Lot 699: a Rare Attic Black-Figure Amphora with Fighting Hoplites, circa 510 BC. Standing on a disc foot with a fitted lid and elegant strap handles, the vessel features upright palmettes on the neck and a classic tongue frieze at the shoulder. Scenes of hoplite combat, such as the one depicted here, were a signature motif of late Archaic vase painting-celebrating the ideals of civic identity, order and military discipline central to Athenian visual culture.

Provenance: Private UK collection; acquired in London in the early 2000s; formerly with Verite collection, Paris, France formed in the 1970s.

Size: 430 mm x 250 mm | Weight: 2.59 kg

View the lot.

Additional notable pieces include

A large Greek solid gold ring with bee (https://auction.apolloauctions.com/lots/view/5-23QP9V/large-greek-solid-gold-ring-with-bee)

An East Greek pottery figural aryballos (ex Christie's) (https://auction.apolloauctions.com/lots/view/5-23QPAJ/east-greek-pottery-figural-aryballos-ex-christies)

A Roman glass beaker (https://auction.apolloauctions.com/lots/view/5-23QPJB/roman-glass-beaker)



This sale presents collectors with a rare opportunity to acquire works of exceptional pedigree from a collection of true royal distinction.

Apollo Art Auctions

Live Bidding Begins: November 30, 2025 - 1 PM GMT

Location: London

www.apolloauctions.com
From district heating and data center cooling to firm power and long-duration energy storage, Europe's geothermal opportunity is an unlock to near term energy independence

BOSTON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Project InnerSpace today announced the launch of GeoMap Europe, a continent-wide geothermal mapping and prospecting platform that unifies decades of subsurface data to reveal Europe's vast potential for this reliable, renewable, and locally produced form of energy.

Geothermal energy, the heat naturally occurring in the Earth's crust, is an abundant and ubiquitous source of energy. Advances in drilling and subsurface technologies are making geothermal affordable and scalable in regions once thought inaccessible.

Europe's geothermal landscape is unique, combining one of the world's longest geothermal operational histories with some of its most advanced policy and technology frameworks. From Iceland's legacy utilization of geothermal energy for heating and electricity, to the geothermal district heating networks of France, Hungary, and the Netherlands, the continent demonstrates that geothermal can be successfully developed across a wide range of applications and geographies. GeoMap Europe now provides the tools necessary to accelerate and expand on that legacy.

Leveraging millions of thermal, geological, and structural data points, GeoMap Europe hosts the world's most comprehensive and freely accessible visualization of subsurface heat across the region, as well as key surface data, identifying where geothermal energy can power cities, cool digital infrastructure, and store renewable energy underground.

GeoMap Europe highlights include:

High-temperature resources for power generation: across Iceland; Italy's Tuscany and Mount Amiata regions; Greece's Aegean volcanic arc; western Turkey; Hungary's Pannonian Basin; and France's Massif Central and Alsace regions-supporting Europe's growing demand for firm, renewable electricity.

across Iceland; Italy's Tuscany and Mount Amiata regions; Greece's Aegean volcanic arc; western Turkey; Hungary's Pannonian Basin; and France's Massif Central and Alsace regions-supporting Europe's growing demand for firm, renewable electricity. Significant district heating potential: key cities across Europe can either expand current geothermal heating systems or create new ones, significantly increasing supplies of firm and domestic heat, including Paris, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, as well as Berlin, Warsaw, Hanover, Zurich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Madrid.

key cities across Europe can either expand current geothermal heating systems or create new ones, significantly increasing supplies of firm and domestic heat, including Paris, Munich, Vienna, Budapest, as well as Berlin, Warsaw, Hanover, Zurich, Amsterdam, Barcelona, and Madrid. Industrial clusters co-located with areas of geothermal heat: in key areas, including Northern Italy, Northern France, and Nordrhein-Westfalen Germany, where geothermal can deliver direct process heat, hybrid heat-pump integration, and steam for chemicals, paper, food & beverage, and fuel production, enabling rapid decarbonization via geothermal heat networks.

in key areas, including Northern Italy, Northern France, and Nordrhein-Westfalen Germany, where geothermal can deliver direct process heat, hybrid heat-pump integration, and steam for chemicals, paper, food & beverage, and fuel production, enabling rapid decarbonization via geothermal heat networks. Data center cooling and subsurface energy storage via geothermal: opportunities for geothermal-powered cooling and waste-heat reuse in Germany's Upper Rhine Graben, northern France's Paris Basin, the Netherlands North Permian Basin, and Hungary's Pannonia Basin. Subsurface energy storage can balance wind/solar using thick sedimentary basins in northern Germany, Denmark, and the Netherlands.

"Geothermal is the sleeping clean energy giant that the world has consistently overlooked, while collectively handwringing about the future of energy," said Jamie Beard, Executive Director of Project InnerSpace. "If Europe moves quickly to launch its next chapter of geothermal development, energy independence and decarbonization are the dual prize. GeoMap Europe is the tool that will give developers, researchers, and governments a clear picture of where to get started."

GeoMap Europe builds on earlier regional GeoMap releases across Africa, Asia, North America, India, the Middle East, Oceania, and South America, advancing Project InnerSpace's mission to democratize the geothermal opportunity. With this release-the final milestone in GeoMap's first phase-a freely accessible, state of the art geothermal resources map has now been published for every region of the world.

About Project InnerSpace

Project InnerSpace is the leading independent non-profit organization dedicated to the global development of geothermal energy. We are a focused research organization, on a mission to remove the major barriers standing in the way of the exponential growth and development of geothermal energy worldwide by 2030. To learn more about Project InnerSpace please visit www.projectinnerspace.org .

About GeoMap

GeoMap is Project InnerSpace's global geothermal exploration platform, developed in collaboration with more than 100 scientists worldwide. It integrates millions of subsurface and surface data points into a freely accessible, interactive map, helping governments, businesses, and communities identify and advance geothermal opportunities. Since its launch, GeoMap has provided the foundational analysis for multiple major international studies, including the International Energy Agency's Future of Geothermal report, and is freely available to the public at geomap.projectinnerspace.org/geomap/ .

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SAN DIEGO, CA / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Valenzia Fitness announced today the expanded launch of ValenziaFitness.app, a digital fitness platform designed to provide structured training programs, guided workout routines, mobility sessions, and weekly updates for users at every experience level. The platform offers a disciplined, streamlined approach to strength development, conditioning, and long-term fitness progress.

First introduced in 2023, ValenziaFitness.app has continued to grow with new training phases, updated video routines, improved program structure, and expanded access to creator-led fitness systems. Built on Playbook's technology, the platform delivers a centralized training experience where users can follow complete strength programs, muscle-building routines, conditioning plans, and mobility work with clear instruction and no guesswork. Each program is supported by video guidance, progress-tracking features, and weekly updates designed to help users maintain consistent results over time.

"ValenziaFitness.app was created to give people a simple and structured way to build strength, discipline, and confidence. The purpose of this platform is to make effective fitness accessible to anyone who wants to improve themselves," said Tyler Valenzia, founder of Valenzia Fitness.

The expanded version of the platform introduces additional training categories, new guided sessions, improved progression systems, and more frequent content updates. Users can expect an integrated training approach that supports strength, conditioning, recovery, and overall physical development in one place. The platform is designed to eliminate uncertainty by offering a clear, continuous training path that evolves week by week.

Today, Tyler maintains an active presence across all major digital platforms, including TikTok, YouTube, Snapchat, and X, where he shares training updates and information related to his work. His work extends across all major platforms at @tylervalenzia, with more information available on tylervalenzia.com, and the full transformation system now live at ValenziaFitness.app.

About Valenzia Fitness

Valenzia Fitness, founded in 2023 by Tyler Valenzia, offers a disciplined and structured approach to digital fitness. Based in San Diego, California, the company provides strength training, conditioning, mobility routines, and video-guided programs through its proprietary platform, ValenziaFitness.app.

Media Contact:

Organization: Valenzia Fitness

Contact Person Name: Tyler Valenzia

Website: https://valenziafitness.app/

Email: tylervalenzia@gmail.com

City: San Diego

State: California

Country: United States

SOURCE: Valenzia Fitness

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/tyler-valenzia-announces-expanded-launch-of-valenziafitness.app-1104171
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc. (CSE: NOP) ("NOP" or the "Company"), a B.C. based leader in organic sedimentary phosphate exploration, is pleased to report additional encouraging preliminary observations from drill holes MM25-6, now completed on its wholly owned Murdock Mountain Property in Elko County, Nevada.

The Company's exploration target is the Upper Phosphatic Zone, a 3.4 to 7.6 metre (11 to 25 feet) thick interval within the Meade Peak Member, which itself comprises 28 to 40 metres (92 to 131 feet) of phosphatic siltstone and phosphorite. This stratigraphic framework is based on the work of William Fedewa (M.Sc. thesis, 1980: Stratigraphy and Phosphate Resources of the Murdock Mountain Area, Elko County, Nevada) from trench observations. Some variation in the thickness of the Upper Phosphatic Zone based on this drill program will be determined from assay results.

Drill hole MM25-6, located at 723830E, 4568439N, was drilled vertically to a depth of 78.3 metres (257 feet) and intersected 37.3 metres (122 feet) of favourable, Meade Peak phosphate bearing stratigraphy, actual thickness and phosphate content to be determined by assay.

Drill hole MM25-6, located 370 metres southwest of MM25-4 and MM25-5, further confirmed the continuity of the Mead Peak phosphate zone, extending its strike length to more than 1.4 kilometres to date.

Robin Dow, CEO of Nevada Organic Phosphate, stated: "We are pleased to report that our sixth drill hole has once again intersected the Meade Peak phosphate-bearing stratigraphy exactly as predicted by our geological model. The target's geometry continues to demonstrate exceptional consistency."

MM25-6 marks the final drill hole of this year's program. With winter conditions approaching, drilling equipment has been de-mobilized from the mountain and initial reclamation of drill pads has been completed. Operations are scheduled to resume in early 2026, once weather permits.

The Company will release laboratory assay results once received and validated.

The Independent Qualified Person for this drill program is Kenneth N. Tullar, AIPG Certified Professional Geologist (CPG-11142), who has reviewed and approved the technical content of this release.

Option Grant and Compensation Shares Issuance

The Company has approved the issuance of 924,000 stock options to certain officers, directors, and consultants of the Company for the purchase of up to 924,000 common shares in the capital of the Company pursuant to the Company's Stock Option Plan. Each option vested immediately and is exercisable for a period of five (5) years at an exercise price of $0.08 per share.

The Company has also agreed to issue 2,000,000 common shares of the Company to Robin Dow, CEO, and 1,000,000 common shares to Garry Smith, P. Geo., as bonus compensation (the "Compensation Shares"). The Compensation Shares are being issued at a deemed price of $0.06 per share, in accordance with policies of the Canadian Securities Exchange. The options and Compensation Shares are being issued as a bonus for the very successful completion of phase 1 of exploration on Murdock Mountain. All Compensation Shares issued are subject to a four (4) month and a day hold period.

The issuance of the Compensation Shares constitutes a "related party transaction" as this term is defined in Multilateral Instrument 61-101: Protection of Minority Securityholders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The issuance of the Shares was exempt from the valuation requirement of MI 61-101 by the virtue of the exemption contained in section 5.5(b) as the Company's Shares are not listed on a specified market and from the minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 by virtue of the exemption contained in Section 5.7(1)(a) as the value of the Shares issued did not exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. The Company did not file a material change report more than 21 days before the expected closing of the Compensation Shares transaction as the details and amounts of the bonuses were not finalized until closer to the closing and the Company wished to close the transaction as soon as practicable, which the Company deems reasonable.

Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc.

NOP is a junior exploration company with an organic sedimentary raw rock phosphate bed, 6.6 kilometres long, in northeast Nevada. Additional applications extend the potential strike of rock phosphate to over 30 kilometres. This is believed to be the only known large-scale organic sedimentary phosphate project in North America. It is situated close to the main highway to Montello/Elko, Nevada, and near the rail head to California.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its regulations services providers have reviewed or accept responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

This news release may contain forward-looking statements and information ("FLSI") within the meaning

of applicable securities laws. FLSI may include expectations, anticipations, beliefs, opinions, plans, intentions, estimates, forecasts, projections, guidance or other similar statements and information that are not historical facts. All statements which are not historical statements are considered FLSI. All FLSI is based on assumptions, which may prove inaccurate, and subject to certain risks and uncertainties, including without limitation those risks and uncertainties identified in the Company's public securities filings, which may cause actual events or results to differ materially from those indicated or implied in FLSI. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance or value on FLSI. Although the Company believes that the expectations reflected in any FLSI in this news release are reasonable at the present time, it can give no assurance that such FLSI will prove to be correct. Any FLSI in this news release is made as of the date hereof and the Company undertakes no obligations to publicly update or revise any FLSI, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise, unless required by applicable securities laws. Any FLSI in this news release is expressly qualified in its entirety by this cautionary statement.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275119

SOURCE: Nevada Organic Phosphate Inc.
New Immersive One platform capability delivers evidence-based reporting derived from authentic, full-chain adversary attacks on vendor-specific tooling

Immersive, the leader in cyber resilience, today announced the general availability of Dynamic Threat Range, a groundbreaking new capability within its Immersive One platform that transforms how organizations validate and improve cyber readiness.

Dynamic Threat Range runs authentic, full-chain live-fire attacks within supported enterprise environments, delivering a level of realism that traditional log replays cannot match. Powered by a new Infrastructure-as-Code foundation, it enables complex, real-world simulations at scale and provides measurable insight into how teams detect and respond under pressure.

A New Standard for Continuous Cyber Resilience

Dynamic Threat Range provides the optimal environment for developing cyber readiness and achieving lasting resilience. By transforming performance into measurable insights, it ensures every exercise strengthens capability and confidence across people, process, and technology.

Key benefits include:

Train under real conditions: Conduct investigations and detection drills within supported enterprise SIEMs such as Elastic and Splunk to ensure training relevance and transferability.

Conduct investigations and detection drills within supported enterprise SIEMs such as Elastic and Splunk to ensure training relevance and transferability. Measure what matters: Quantify readiness through objective, evidence-based metrics such as Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR), providing clear proof of progress and ROI.

Quantify readiness through objective, evidence-based metrics such as Mean Time to Detect (MTTD) and Mean Time to Respond (MTTR), providing clear proof of progress and ROI. Focus on the right threats: Access scenarios curated to mirror the techniques and threat actors most relevant to your organization's environment.

Access scenarios curated to mirror the techniques and threat actors most relevant to your organization's environment. Prepare teams for resilience: Build the confidence and coordination required to respond decisively when incidents occur, accelerating overall organizational readiness.

"For years, security teams have been forced to train in environments that don't reflect their real-world and ever-evolving attack surface," said Aniket Menon, Chief Product Officer at Immersive. "Dynamic Threat Range changes that. By enabling exercises within an organization's actual SIEM and network technologies, we're giving leaders and technical teams verifiable, data-backed proof of readiness, and finally moving the industry from 'we think we're ready' to 'we know we're ready.'"

Strategic Advantage for Customers and Partners

With this launch, Immersive reinforces its leadership as the only platform delivering continuous, evidence-based cyber resilience. The Dynamic Threat Range capability empowers CISOs and security champions to confidently prove and improve readiness, while offering new revenue opportunities for partners through services like pre-sales readiness assessments and post-incident benchmarking.

Upcoming roadmap milestones include support for Microsoft Sentinel, advanced custom exercise creation, and AI-driven communication analysis-expanding the platform's benchmarking and automation capabilities in early 2026.

For more details on Immersive One Dynamic Threat Range, visit https://www.immersivelabs.com/lp/dynamic-threat-range

About Immersive

Immersive, the leader in cyber resilience, helps your organization continuously prove and improve its ability to prevent and respond to cyber threats. Tailored to individual roles, our approach ensures your organization is always ready for an ever-evolving threat landscape, including the opportunities and challenges posed by AI. With a relentless focus on evidence, Immersive provides unmatched visibility into your cyber resilience. Through a single enterprise platform for individuals, teams, and the entire workforce, we empower your organization to Be Ready for what's next.

Immersive is trusted by the world's largest organizations and governments, including Citi, Pfizer, Humana, HSBC, the UK Ministry of Defence, and the UK National Health Service. We are backed by Goldman Sachs Asset Management, Summit Partners, Insight Partners, Citi Ventures, Ten Eleven Ventures, and Menlo Ventures.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119637948/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact

Jen Gaines

Inkhouse for Immersive

immersive@inkhouse.com
Royal Yacht International (RYI), a leading global superyacht brokerage and management firm, today announced the launch of its proprietary AI-driven operating platform, a groundbreaking first for the luxury yachting industry, as it accelerates strategic expansion across the United States, where ultra-high-net-worth (UHNW) yacht ownership is experiencing unprecedented growth.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119974881/en/

Tommaso Chiabra, President and Founder of RYI Manuele Thiella, CEO and Founder of RYI

Headquartered in Monaco and managing over 1 billion in annual superyacht transactions, the company is leveraging cutting-edge artificial intelligence across its Monaco, Dubai, and US operations, where RYI's licensed brokers are implementing the technology locally, to transform the way elite clients buy, sell, charter, and manage luxury yachts.

U.S. Tax Incentives Fuel Superyacht Ownership Boom

RYI attributes the surge in demand from American buyers to recent U.S. tax incentives that expanded asset depreciation advantages for high-value capital investments, including superyachts. These fiscal policies have positioned the United States as the world's most dynamic and intelligence-driven market for luxury vessels.

"Technology, politics, and lifestyle are converging in unprecedented ways," said Tommaso Chiabra, Co-Founder and President of Royal Yacht International. "In America, fiscal incentives have empowered a new generation of successful entrepreneurs to view superyacht ownership not only as a lifestyle statement but as a smart, depreciable investment asset. Our AI-powered platform delivers the transparency, efficiency, and data intelligence they expect, mirroring their experiences in private banking and venture capital. This is the future of the superyacht industry."

AI Revolution Meets Luxury Yachting

Global investment in artificial intelligence has surged over 80% in the past two years, expanding from $150 billion in 2023 to more than $270 billion in 2025. As AI reshapes industries through advanced data intelligence and hyper- personalization, adoption in luxury sectors like yachting is accelerating rapidly. Royal Yacht International is pioneering this transformation at the intersection of technology and lifestyle.

RYI's proprietary AI infrastructure, developed in-house and trained on the company's comprehensive database of historical transactions, refits, charter performance, and market analytics, can instantly identify the most accurate market valuation, availability (both on and off-market), and optimal acquisition strategy for any vessel worldwide.

This intelligence-driven model enables RYI brokers to execute transactions with unmatched speed, discretion, and analytical precision. Clients benefit from a seamless, one-stop-shop service encompassing:

Technical project management and yacht design

Legal representation and compliance

Charter management and optimization

Sales operations and resale strategy

AI-powered vessel redesign tailored to individual client preferences

"Our vision is to make yacht brokerage as intelligent and sophisticated as private equity," Tommaso explained. "We're not simply digitizing the old model, we're building an entirely new one. Data and AI provide our competitive edge, but human expertise, trust, and personalized service remain the foundation of every client relationship.

Award-Winning New Builds and U.S. Market Expansion

RYI has overseen some of the industry's most celebrated new-build projects in recent years with renowned shipyards including Benetti, Baglietto, and Overmarine, and holds exclusive representation on select projects from prestigious Dutch and German yards. The company is now intensifying its focus on the American market in collaboration with the U.S. team based in Miami, with additional U.S. locations under consideration for 2026.

In 2024 alone, RYI facilitated 20 superyacht sales totaling $1 billion, including landmark transactions such as M/Y ANNA, M/Y MONEIKOS, M/Y SEANNA, M/Y FANTASEA and M/Y ARTISAN. With 70% of revenue generated from repeat clients, RYI's insider advisor approach and boutique service model continue to set new industry standards.

About Royal Yacht International

Founded in Monaco in 2012 and rebranded in 2021, RYI is a next-generation superyacht brokerage, charter, and management firm operating at the intersection of luxury, innovation, and technology. Headquartered in Monaco with offices in Miami and Dubai and managing more than 1 billion in annual sales, RYI provides ultra-high-net-worth clients with a fully integrated suite of services, from new-build advisory and legal representation to charter management and resale strategy.

RYI's proprietary AI platform delivers real-time market intelligence across the global superyacht industry, setting a new benchmark for transparency, precision, and performance. The firm specializes in luxury vessels ranging from 50 to 100+ meters and serves discerning clients across the USA, Monaco, Italy, France, and the Middle East.

Follow RYI:

Instagram@royal_yacht

LinkedIn: Royal Yacht International

Facebook: Royal Yacht International

Distribution Notes for Media

High-Resolution images used in this press release are available upon request.

SEO Keywords: AI-powered superyacht brokerage Luxury yacht sales Monaco Superyacht management platform U.S. yacht ownership tax incentives Ultra- high-net-worth yacht buyers AI in luxury yachting industry Superyacht brokerage Miami New-build yacht advisory Charter management services Royal Yacht International 1 billion yacht transactions Monaco yacht brokerage firm

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119974881/en/

Contacts:

Media Contact:

Email: marketing@royalyacht.it

Website: www.royalyachtinternational.com

Phone: +33 6 07 93 38 77
FRANKFURT, Germany, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- On the opening day of Formnext 2025, Creality, a global leader in the 3D printing industry, made an impressive debut at Hall 12.1-C02, unveiling new products and experiences that bridge intelligent design and accessible creation. The showcase featured innovations across 3D printing, laser systems, and AI modelling-highlighting Creality's expanding ecosystem and vision of "Instant Creation."

New-Generation Products Unveiled

At Formnext 2025, Creality will unveil a new generation of innovations that extend its ever-growing 3D printing ecosystem.

Ender-3 V4 3D Printer - The next evolution of Creality's most iconic and best-selling series, designed for smarter operation, enhanced stability, and multi-colour creativity.

- The next evolution of Creality's most iconic and best-selling series, designed for smarter operation, enhanced stability, and multi-colour creativity. Falcon T1 Laser Engraver - The world's first 5-in-1 laser system, integrating engraving, marking, carving, colour marking, and high-speed cutting into one powerful and versatile platform.

- The world's first 5-in-1 laser system, integrating engraving, marking, carving, colour marking, and high-speed cutting into one powerful and versatile platform. Sermoon P1 3D Scanner - A next-generation all-in-one laser solution combining blue-laser precision with Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for professional-grade performance.

- A next-generation all-in-one laser solution combining blue-laser precision with Wi-Fi 7 connectivity for professional-grade performance. CubeMeAI Function - A new AI-powered modelling tool from Creality Cloud that enables users to generate personalised 3D models from a photo in minutes-making creation faster, smarter, and more accessible.

Workshops: Exchanging Insights about AI and the Future of Design

Under the theme "AI + 3D Printing: Smarter Creativity in Action", Creality will also host four live workshop sessions featuring leading designers and HEI educators across Europe. The sessions will explore how AI-driven tools are reshaping 3D design, modelling, and learning experiences, making creation faster, smarter, and more intuitive. By connecting professional insights, the workshops will inspire new possibilities for both creative and educational applications of 3D printing.

Immersive 3D Printing Experience and Cyberpunk Showcase

Creality's booth also combined interactive experiences with large-scale creative displays, offering visitors another engaging journey through its expanding ecosystem.

The centrepiece, a "Cyberpunk City" miniature diorama, integrated FDM multi-colour printing, laser engraving, and resin printing to create a stunning, futuristic cityscape. Alongside it, interactive zones, including the K2 series Claw Machine, encouraged visitors to play, share, and connect, turning 3D printing technology exploration into a truly participatory experience.

Driving the Future of Creative Technology

By merging AI-powered modelling, advanced 3D technologies, and collaborative educational activities, Creality continues to make 3D creation more intuitive and inspiring for global users. At Formnext 2025, Creality demonstrated not only new tools but also a new way of thinking, where creativity, intelligence, and accessibility come together perfectly.

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November 19, 2025





Amsterdam, the Netherlands -Royal Philips, a pioneer in quantitative neuroimaging solutions. Together, the companies will integrate Cortechs.ai's advanced AI-enabled neuroimaging analytics directly into Philips' MR systems [1], empowering clinicians with faster, more objective, and reproducible insights into brain health. The collaboration strengthens Philips' leadership in precision neuro diagnostics, combining Philips' next-generation MR technologieswith Cortechs.ai's AI-driven quantitative neuro imaging post processing software [1] to transform how neurological diseases are detected, monitored, and managed.





Combining complementary expertise for smarter brain imaging

Up to 25% [2] of all MR procedures are brain scans, and radiology departments face growing demand amid increasing staff shortages. At the same time, the number of patients with neurological conditions such as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis. With this extended partnership, Philips reinforces its commitment to advancing the field of neurology - empowering healthcare providers to deliver better care for more people, in less time, with greater confidence.

[1] The integration of Cortechs.ai's NeuroQuant solutions on Philips MR systems via Smart Reading is works in progress and not available in any jurisdiction. Its future availability cannot be ensured. NeuroQuant is currently available via Advanced Visualization Workspace.

[2] Peter A. Rinck, Magnetic Resonance in Medicine - The Basics.

The opinions and clinical experiences presented herein are specific to the featured topic(s), are not linked to any specific patient and are for information purposes only. The medical experience(s) derived from these topics may not be predictive of all patients. Individual results may vary depending on a variety of patient-specific attributes and related factors. Nothing in this presentation is intended to provide specific medical advice or to take the place of written law or regulations.

For further information, please contact:

Jayme Maniatis

Philips Global External Relations

Tel.: +1





Cortechs.ai

Tel.: +1 858 459 9700

E-mail: info@cortechs.ai

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips.

About Cortechs.ai

Cortechs.ai is a leader in AI applications in radiology. Cortechs.ai uses cutting-edge technologies in medical imaging to revolutionize disease screening and early detection so patients can enjoy longer, healthier lives. The company develops and markets breakthrough medical device software that quantifies and tracks neurodegenerative diseases and assists in the detection of clinically significant cancer. Cortechs.ai's industry-leading brain imaging software provides radiologists, neurologists, oncologists, and clinical researchers worldwide with a convenient and cost-effective way to quantify brain structures for assessing Alzheimer's disease, epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, brain trauma, and other brain abnormalities. The company has FDA-cleared products for use in helping the diagnosis and follow-up of neurodegenerative and traumatic brain conditions, as well as prostate cancer. Please visit www.cortechs.aifor further information and follow us on Twitter, LinkedIn, and Facebook.

Attachment
LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Apollo Art Auctions announces the upcoming sale of an exceptional Thirtieth Dynasty Egyptian bust of Osiris, formerly in the famed collection of H.E. Sheikh Saud Bin Al-Thani, one of the world's most influential and visionary art collectors. The work will be offered as Lot 510 in the auction house's November 30th, 2025 sale, with an estimate of 300,000-600,000.

A Media Snippet accompanying this announcement is available by clicking on this link.

A Masterpiece from a Legendary Collector

Sheikh Saud Bin Al-Thani, a towering figure in the international art world, was widely regarded as one of the most important collectors of his generation. As Qatar's former Minister of Culture and President of the National Council for Culture, Arts and Heritage, he was responsible for a collecting program that reshaped Qatar's cultural institutions, acquiring more than $1 billion worth of art across categories.

Edward Dolman, former executive director of Qatar Museums, praised him as "an extraordinarily talented man with a visceral understanding and appreciation for almost all forms of art." Georgina Adam similarly described him as "a fervent art collector with a great eye." His acquisitions built a collection rivalling those of the world's major museums.

The Osiris bust offered at Apollo Art Auctions stands as a testament to the Sheikh's refined taste and scholarly eye.

Lot Highlight: Egyptian Green Schist Bust of Osiris

Carved in vibrant green schist, this exceptional bust depicts Osiris, one of ancient Egypt's most powerful and enduring gods. Shown with the traditional crook and flail, braided beard, and tripartite wig adorned with a uraeus, the figure is rendered with remarkable detail-downturned nose, recessed eyes with extended cosmetic lines, and a delicately incised collar.

Dimensions: 220 mm x 135 mm

Weight: 2.1 kg

Provenance: Prince collection, 1990s-2014; Ex Merrin Gallery, New York, 1992; Formerly on loan to The Brooklyn Museum of Art, 1992 - 1999. Formerly acquired by his Excellency Sheikh Saud Bin Al-Thani for 1,200,000$ (original invoice to accompany the purchase). This item has been cleared against the Art Loss Register database and comes with a confirmation letter.

Osiris: Lord of the Afterlife & Eternal Renewal

Osiris, central to ancient Egyptian religion and myth, embodied resurrection, kingship, and the cyclical renewal of life. As the god who ruled the underworld and granted new life, he symbolized both the fate of the deceased and the annual rebirth of the Nile's fertility.

According to myth, Osiris was murdered and dismembered by his brother Seth; his wife, the goddess Isis, recovered the scattered pieces and revived him, making him the eternal judge of the dead.

Auction Details:

Apollo Art Auctions

Live Bidding Begins: November 30, 2025 - 1 PM GMT

Location: London

apolloauctions.com
ST JULIAN'S, Malta, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- GBS Malta, part of GEDU Global Education, has today provided a boost to the economy with students graduating in what is the institution's first cohort entering the job market.

Prime Minister Robert Abela was the Chief Guest at the ceremony, which was also attended by senior figures from Maltese businesses and the diplomatic community.

The largest group of students graduated from the MBA in Project Management pathway programme, now accredited by the Association of Project Management (APM). GBS Malta is seeing a growing interest in its courses. Not least because of the quality of life in Malta and the job opportunities emerging through the country's strong economic growth, with tourists visiting in high numbers, and significant private sector investment across the island.

Quality higher education is vital if Malta is to sustain this positive trajectory.

Speaking at the ceremony about the students' achievements, Maltese Prime Minister Robert Abela said:

"It reflects Malta's evolution into a dynamic hub for high-quality education and high-quality career pathways.

"In a world that is shaped by rapid change, these skills place students at the forefront of opportunity.

"GBS Malta's support for local initiatives in education, employability and social development shows a genuine commitment to our community."

Director of Operations (Europe) for GBS Malta, Allen Lofaro said this is a momentous day for the institution.

"I'm filled with pride to see students graduating today, knowing that they will go on to have an impact both here in Malta and around the world," said Mr Lofaro.

"It is a really exciting time to be involved in education in Malta, and we were delighted to have the Prime Minister's support. Malta is increasingly able to attract and retain talented young people - they see a positive and long-term future in the country."

"This is helping to make Malta a hub for education, attracting ambitious students and institutions from around world.

"The Island's knowledge economy is thriving, and we at GBS will continue to play our role in strengthening it. We have designed our curriculum to meet industry's needs, particularly in high-tech and high-growth sectors.

"Today's graduating cohort is the first of many, and I can't wait to see what the near future holds."

About GBS Malta:

GBS Malta is a provider of higher education, and part of Global Education (GEDU), a leading organisation bringing high-quality education to 80,000 students across 15 countries.

GBS Malta is devoted to providing academic learning backed by real-world business experience, preparing students for leadership roles. Its programmes, including business, entrepreneurship, information technology, public health, and marketing, taught by industry lecturers and practitioners, are designed for students who want a return on their education investment and seeking to thrive in today's competitive job market.

GBS is dedicated to fostering a collaborative learning environment, in a brand-new state-of-the-art campus in St Julian's, mirroring today's professional workplaces, equipping students with the skills and industry exposure needed to thrive in high-demand fields.

Students in Malta enjoy high-quality affordable education and a vibrant lifestyle in one of the safest countries in Europe.

GBS Malta is a licenced Higher Education institution (MFHEA Licence Number: 2022-010). Its licence has been approved by our regulator, Malta Further & Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) which is an independent, transparent, and international authority. GBS courses are in line with the Malta Qualifications Framework and the European Qualification Framework.

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BRATISLAVA, Slovakia, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- It is official - Slovakia will take part in the EXPO 2027 exhibition in Serbia. Slovakia's participation was formally confirmed in Belgrade by Matej Fekete, Director General of SLOVAKIA TRAVEL, and Lukas Parizek, Commissioner General for EXPO 2027 Belgrade. Parizek, together with Serbia's Commissioner and Minister for Internal and External Trade, Jagoda Lazarevic, and EXPO CEO Danilo Jerinic, ceremonially signed the official contract confirming Slovakia's binding participation in the event.

"I am proud that we are the first country to officially sign the participation agreement for EXPO 2027 Belgrade. This is a major milestone for us, as this is one of the largest events a country can host. We have excellent relations with Serbia, and it is now up to us to make the most of this opportunity to deepen them and to present Slovakia not only within the Balkans, but also globally," said Lukas Parizek after signing the agreement at the Expo Playground at the Belgrade Fair.

As part of the official program, the Slovak delegation also held talks with the leadership of the Serbian Chamber of Commerce and Industry, as well as with Marija Labovic, Director General of Serbia's National Tourism Organization.

"The EXPO 2027 World Exhibition in Belgrade is a unique opportunity to show how we can connect nations, embrace cultural diversity, and build sustainable tourism on an international scale for the benefit of society as a whole. Our participation demonstrates our commitment to continuing to promote Slovakia's good reputation across the international spectrum and to bringing solutions that shape the future for generations to come. This occasion will also strengthen our cooperation with Serbia in the field of tourism," said Matej Fekete.

The international specialized exhibition will begin on 15 May 2027 and will run for three months. More than 120 countries are expected to participate, and the event is projected to attract over 4 million visitors.

SLOVAKIA TRAVEL is the national organization for promoting tourism in Slovakia. Its main task is the development of tourism in both the domestic and international markets.

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Findings show AI's fast entrenchment in modern work, yet employees are not receiving guidance and training that align with usage encouragement

Cornerstone OnDemand Inc., a leader in workforce agility solutions, today announced the findings of a study around workplace AI behaviors, usage and disclosure. The key findings show that while AI has quickly become an integral part of modern work (80% of U.S. and U.K. workers respectively use AI) its usage is primarily happening in silence.

Most workers do not want to disclose their use of AI: 57% of U.S. and 81% of U.K. workers are reluctant to tell their manager or colleagues, and only 54% of U.S. workers talk about using AI to senior colleagues. However, the AI silence is not due to embarrassment, shame or fear of job loss. Seventy-six percent of U.S. workers and 38% of U.K. workers never feel embarrassed about using AI at work. Both regions feel some degree of organizational encouragement or support, as 64% of U.S. employees are largely encouraged to use AI at work, along with 62% of U.K. employees.

Instead, the data points to a widespread lack of training and guidance as a primary barrier to disclosure. Only 44% of U.S. employees have received AI training and tools, with just 16% receiving training often, and 51% of U.K. employees have never or rarely received training. Employees are looking to their organizations for more direction: 65% of U.S. workers want training to build AI skills and confidence, and 65% of U.K. workers want AI training.

"Both organizations and individuals are eager to capitalize on the efficiencies that AI can offer, however, heavy investment in AI tools alone are not the answer, as training and governance systems are critical to success," said Mike Bollinger, VP of Strategic Initiatives at Cornerstone. "This survey validates employees' desires for training, particularly on AI, but shows significant discrepancies on who is receiving it and the key alignments that need to take place across an organization."

Additional key findings from the study;

On average roughly 73% of AI users say they don't always disclose their use to managers or colleagues.

Only 33% of employees say they are often or always encouraged to use AI at work.

In the UK, 51% have never or rarely received AI training or tools; only 8% always receive them. In the US, of those who are encouraged to use AI at work, 33% do not receive training to support their usage.

The UK pay gap in training support: 16% of those earning 15,000 or less always/often receive AI training, vs 47% of those earning 55,001+.

For more information on Cornerstone Galaxy and how Cornerstone helps organizations upskill workers on AI, check out: https://www.cornerstoneondemand.com/platform/

About the Study

The U.S. survey was conducted via Dynata and polled 1,000 general U.S.-based consumers over 18 years of age in October 2025. Respondents were segmented by employment status and analyzed across age groups, gender, marital status, having children and household income. The U.K. research was conducted by Censuswide, targeting a sample of 2,000 U.K. employees in October 2025. Censuswide abides by and employs members of the Market Research Society and follows the MRS code of conduct and ESOMAR principles. Censuswide is also a member of the British Polling Council. For complete survey methodology, please email cornerstone@pancomm.com.

About Cornerstone

Cornerstone powers the potential of organizations and their people to thrive in a changing world. Cornerstone Galaxy, the complete AI-powered workforce agility platform, meets organizations where they are. With Galaxy, organizations can identify skills gaps and development opportunities, retain and engage top talent, and provide multimodal learning experiences to meet the diverse needs of the modern workforce. Approximately 7,000 organizations and 140 million users in 180+ countries use Cornerstone Galaxy to build high-performing, future-ready organizations and people today.

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Contacts:

Media Contact

Media@csod.com
High-Temperature Low-Sag (HTLS) conductors represent a significant technological advancement in the field of power transmission, addressing the limitations of traditional conductors and supporting the modernization of power grids. HTLS conductors are engineered to operate at elevated temperatures, typically ranging from 150C to 250C, compared to conventional conductors like Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR), which operate at lower temperatures. This higher thermal tolerance allows HTLS conductors to carry increased current loads without excessive sagging, thereby enhancing the transmission capacity of existing lines without the need for substantial structural modifications.

WILMINGTON, Del., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Allied Market Research published a report, titled, "Aluminum Bare Wire Conductor Market by Type (All Aluminum Alloy Conductor (AAAC), Aluminum Alloy Wire, Aluminum Conductor Steel Reinforced (ACSR)), by Voltage (Low Voltage, Medium Voltage, High Voltage), by End-Use (Electronics and Electrical, Aerospace, Automotive, Building and Construction, Packaging, Telecommunications, Power, Others): Global Opportunity Analysis and Industry Forecast, 2025-2034". According to the report, the "aluminum bare wire conductor market" was valued at $11.3 billion in 2024, and is estimated to reach $19.1 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.5% from 2025 to 2034.

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Expansion of electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure

The expansion of electricity transmission and distribution infrastructure is a pivotal driver in the global energy landscape, facilitating the integration of renewable energy sources and meeting the escalating demand for reliable power. In India, the government's commitment to achieving 24x7 power for all by 2025 underscores the urgency to bolster transmission infrastructure. The Central Electricity Authority (CEA) has outlined plans to add 114,687 circuit kilometers of transmission lines and 776,330 MVA of transformation capacity between 2022 and 2027, with an estimated investment of approximately $51.2 billion (?4.25 trillion). These developments are crucial for integrating over 500 GW of renewable energy capacity by 2030, aligning with India's sustainable energy goals. Rapid urbanization and industrialization are further accelerating the demand for expanded transmission networks. As cities grow and industrial hubs expand, the requirement for reliable and extensive power distribution systems intensifies. Aluminum conductors, with their scalability and economic advantages, are increasingly being utilized to meet these demands efficiently.

Trump's Tarriff Impact on Aluminum Bare Wire Conductor Industry

The tariffs led to a sharp rise in the price of aluminum, particularly for industries reliant on imported materials. By 2025, aluminum prices had remained elevated compared to pre-tariff levels, which directly impacted manufacturers of aluminum bare wire conductors. The cost of raw aluminum increased, leading to higher production costs for wire manufacturers. For example, the cost of primary aluminum saw an increase of around 10-15% in the first year following the implementation of the tariffs, and while some price stability returned in the following years, prices were still higher by 7-8% on average by 2025 compared to a no-tariff scenario.

The introduction of tariffs also created a significant shift in trade relationships. Countries such as Canada, China, and the EU, which were major exporters of aluminum to the U.S., had to adjust by either imposing retaliatory tariffs or seeking new markets. In 2025, Canada's share of aluminum exports to the U.S. had dropped by 3%, with a corresponding increase in reliance on domestic supply sources. Similarly, imports of aluminum from China fell by 12%, as Chinese manufacturers faced tariff increases, leading to a partial re-orientation of global aluminum supply chains.

On the positive side, tariffs incentivized some domestic producers to increase their production capacities, as they could more easily compete with foreign imports. In particular, U.S.-based aluminum refineries and smelters benefitted from reduced foreign competition, leading to a slight expansion in domestic production. By 2025, the domestic production of aluminum ingots was up by approximately 5%, with some companies shifting focus toward products like aluminum wire conductors, which are essential for a variety of sectors, including construction and energy.

Report coverage & details:

Report Coverage Details Forecast Period 2025-2034 Base Year 2024 Market Size in 2024 $11.3 billion Market Size in 2034 $19.1 billion CAGR 5.50 % No. of Pages in Report 486 Segments Covered Type, Voltage, End-Use, and Region Drivers Growing demand for electrical infrastructure Growing renewable energy sector Opportunity Increase in demand for overhead power lines Restraint Lower conductivity compared to copper

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Smart city projects incorporating advanced electrical grids

Smart grid investments are on the rise, with a reported 7% growth in 2022 compared to the previous year. These investments are crucial for modernizing electricity grids to accommodate renewable energy sources, improve reliability, and reduce operational costs. In the U.S., Chattanooga's EPB has implemented a comprehensive smart grid system, featuring over 200,000 sensors and automated switches. This infrastructure has led to a 60% reduction in power outages and saved the city approximately $60 million annually. Additionally, the deployment of a 9,000-mile fiber-optic network has enabled gigabit-speed internet access, earning Chattanooga the nickname "Gig City". Luxembourg's Creos has installed 300,000 smart meters across the country, facilitating real-time monitoring of energy consumption and production. These smart grids support the integration of decentralized energy sources like solar and wind, and manage the charging infrastructure for electric vehicles, contributing to the nation's energy efficiency goals.

Moreover, India is actively pursuing smart grid development through the National Smart Grid Mission (NSGM), which has allocated approximately $112.56 million (?938 crore) for the establishment of 10 smart grid projects. These projects aim to enhance grid reliability, integrate renewable energy, and reduce transmission losses.

Advancements in conductor design for reduced line losses

The ACCC conductor incorporates a high-strength, lightweight composite core, enabling the inclusion of up to 28% more aluminum without increasing the conductor's weight. This design results in a 25% to 40% reduction in line losses compared to traditional ACSR conductors. Additionally, the ACCC conductor's ability to withstand higher temperatures allows for greater current capacity without compromising safety or performance.

HVCRC (High Voltage Composite Reinforced Conductors) are designed to improve transmission line capacity and efficiency. These conductors utilize a strong, lightweight composite core and trapezoidal aluminum strands to enhance ampacity and reduce electrical losses. The design allows for double the current capacity of traditional conductors, reduces line losses by approximately 30%, and minimizes sag, leading to improved reliability and efficiency in power transmission systems.

Sterlite Power has developed a low-loss conductor specifically tailored for renewable energy applications. This conductor combines high-conductivity aluminum with a corrosion-resistant design to achieve a 40% reduction in IR losses compared to conventional ACSR conductors. For example, in a renewable energy farm scenario, using this conductor can reduce line losses by 40%, translating to a significant decrease in CO2 emissions over time.

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Bargaining power of the buyer for aluminum bare wire conductors

Buyers in this market, particularly large industrial consumers such as power utilities, construction firms, and renewable energy developers, possess significant bargaining power. This is primarily due to the availability of multiple suppliers, which increases competition and allows buyers to negotiate favorable terms. For instance, National Aluminium Company (NALCO), a major player in the aluminum industry, faces intense competition from both large multinational corporations and smaller manufacturers. As of October 2023, NALCO held approximately 5% of the global aluminum market share, which increases customer bargaining power. The availability of multiple suppliers allows buyers to switch easily, further intensifying this pressure.

Regulations concerning building codes and electrical safety directly impact material choices in the industry. Under the National Electrical Code (NEC), the use of aluminum wire is permitted, provided that it meets certain installation requirements. In 2022, regulations prompted an increase in aluminum wire installations by approximately 15% in residential buildings

Key Players: -

Prysmian Group

LS Cable & System

Southwire Company, LLC

Nexans S.A.

Apar Industries Ltd.

MIDAL CABLES COMPANY B.S.C.

NKT A/S

Henan Chalco

Classic Wire Products (P) Ltd

Swarnagiri Wire Insulations Pvt. Ltd.

The report provides a detailed analysis of these key players in the global aluminum bare wire conductor market. These players have adopted different strategies such as new product launches, collaborations, expansion, joint ventures, and agreements to increase their market share and maintain dominant shares in different regions. The report is valuable in highlighting business performance, operating segments, product portfolio, and strategic moves of market players to highlight the competitive scenario.

Recent Key Developments

In April 2025, Prysmian announced the acquisition of U.S.-based Encore Wire for approximately $4.15 billion. This strategic move aims to enhance Prysmian's North American presence and broaden its product offerings, particularly in power generation and distribution solutions. Encore Wire manufactures a broad range of copper and aluminum electrical wires and cables.

In November 2024, Apar Industries announced a threefold expansion of its CTC production capacity to 20,490 metric tons annually by Q3 FY26. This expansion is in response to increased demand driven by the Indian government's focus on power and generation infrastructure.

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The Bank will propose a strategic alliance with the Group's global payments platform to its Shareholders' Meeting. With this new step, Getnet Chile will leverage the Group's technological capabilities and international reach.



SANTIAGO, Chile, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (NYSE: BSAC; SSE: Bsantander) PagoNxt, the global payments platform of Grupo Santander and the largest acquiring operator in Latin America and the Iberian Peninsula, will now be part of Getnet Chile. This strategic alliance, which offers scale, technological capabilities, and the Group's international network, aims to strengthen the acquiring network's leadership in the local market. In fact, in its four years of operation, Getnet Chile has already achieved a 18.9% market share in physical card transactions and has more than 316,000 POS in operation nationwide.

This transaction-which will be voted on at the Extraordinary Shareholders' Meeting on December 10-involves the incorporation of Getnet Payments, SL., a subsidiary of PagoNxt, into Getnet Chile with a 49.99% stake in exchange, among other things, for a cash payment of Ch$41.6 billion and a 7-year renewable distribution agreement that rewards Banco Santander Chile with a net present valuation of Ch$45.2 billion. Santander Chile will thus maintain control of Getnet, with 50.01% ownership.

At a global level, Santander is working diligently to enhance its global capabilities across the various regions where it operates, leveraging its deep knowledge of each market. This acquisition aligns with that objective and will allow us to access more continuous innovation, economies of scale, globally proven solutions, and an international network that opens new business opportunities. In short, it strengthens competitiveness and accelerates innovation.

PagoNxt, the largest Latam and Iberia payments acquirer, possesses its own technological developments, offers value-added services, and leverages payment solutions globally. It processed payments worth 222 billion in 2024 and handled a total of 9.8 million transactions for 1.2 million merchants.



The alliance with PagoNxT reflects Getnet Chile's current success and strengthens its position in an increasingly competitive, technological, and globalized payments market.

This partnership allows shareholders to capture the value that Getnet has been able to generate through its successful performance since beginning operations in Chile, while also strengthening the company to face future challenges in maintaining and increasing its leadership.

It is important to note that this alliance does not entail any contractual or service changes for Getnet's current clients.

Banco Santander Chile is one of the companies with the highest risk ratings in Latin America, with an A2 rating from Moody's, A- from Standard & Poor's, A+ from the Japan Credit Rating Agency, AA- from HR Ratings, and A from KBRA. All of our ratings have a stable outlook as of the date of this report.

As of September 30, 2025, the Bank had total assets of $68,240,207 million (US$73,258 million), total gross loans (including interbank loans) at amortized cost of $40,988,278 million (US$44,002 million), total deposits of $29,356,420 million (US$31,515 million), and shareholders' equity of $4,592,379 million (US$4,930 million). The BIS capital ratio was 16.7%, with a core capital ratio of 10.8%. As of September 30, 2025, Santander Chile employed 8,583 people and had 231 branches throughout Chile.

CONTACT INFORMATION

Cristian Vicuna

Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Investor Relations

Banco Santander Chile

Bandera 140, Floor 20

Santiago, Chile

Email: irelations@santander.cl Website: www.santander.cl
SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global cell culture media market size is expected to reach USD 12.80 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 13.20% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. Cell culture media, typically a liquid or gel, contain the essential compounds necessary to regulate and support the growth of cells and microorganisms vital for manufacturing biopharmaceuticals. A significant factor driving this market is the increasing reliance on cell culture-based viral vaccines, which are now a critical component of global immunization strategies. These methods offer a safer, more efficient, and scalable alternative to traditional egg-based approaches, ensuring high-quality vaccine production that meets rising global demand and stringent safety standards.

The move toward cell-derived vaccines is accelerating due to critical advantages over older methods. For instance, the CDC noted that from 2020 to 2021, flu vaccine viruses supplied to manufacturers were cell-derived to mitigate the risk of antigenic changes, or mismatches between vaccine strains and circulating viruses, that can occur during egg-based cultivation and reduce effectiveness. Furthermore, the FDA's approval of cell-based candidate vaccine viruses (CVVs) has streamlined the development of more consistent and potentially effective flu vaccines. Beyond influenza, the utility of this technology is broad, extending to the production of vaccines for diseases such as smallpox, rotavirus, rubella, hepatitis, chickenpox, and polio.

Request a free sample copy of this report: Cell Culture Media Market

Innovation in cell culture media also significantly supports the burgeoning field of advanced therapeutics. A notable development occurred in December 2024 when Mesoblast received FDA approval for Ryoncil (remestemcel-L), marking it as the first and only mesenchymal stromal cell (MSC) therapy approved in the U.S. for treating steroid-refractory acute graft-versus-host disease (SR-aGvHD) in pediatric patients. This breakthrough therapy is also being developed for other inflammatory conditions, such as biologic-resistant inflammatory bowel disease. The ongoing advancements in biological models, continuous refinement of cell culture media, and the trend toward reducing reliance on animal-derived components are expected to sustain and fuel further innovation in the development of both cell-based vaccines and complex cell therapies.

Cell Culture Media Market Report Highlights:

Based on product, the serum-free media segment dominated the market in 2024 with a 33.16% revenue share, serving as a vital tool that allows researchers to grow specific cell types, enhance consistency and productivity, and significantly reduce the risk of infection.

The biopharmaceutical production segment led the market in 2024 with a 47.79% revenue share, primarily driven by the industry's need for more reproducible and defined media to support expanding production and minimize contamination risks in downstream processes.

Based on end use, the hospital and diagnostic laboratory segment is projected for significant growth, driven by the increasing use of cell culture media in diagnostic testing and the rising global prevalence of chronic diseases like cancer and autoimmune disorders.

North America dominated the market in 2024 with a 38.57% share, primarily attributed to the significant growth of its pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries. This leading position is further reinforced by increasing approvals for cell culture-based vaccines, a rising incidence of diseases like cancer, and substantial investments in cell-based research and development.

Read full market research report on Cell Culture Media Market with TOC - Cell Culture Media Market Size, Share & Trends Analysis Report By Product (Serum-free Media, Classical Media), By Type (Liquid Media, Semi-solid & Solid Media), By Application (Biopharmaceutical Production), By End-use, By Region, And Segment Forecasts, 2025 - 2033

Cell Culture Media Market Segmentation

Grand View Research has segmented the global cell culture media market based on product, application, type, end use, and region:

Cell Culture Media Market - Product Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

Serum-free Media

CHO Media



BHK Medium



Vero Medium



HEK 293 Media



Other Serum-free media

Classical Media

Stem Cell Culture Media

Mesenchymal Stem Cells (MSCs)



Hematopoietic Stem Cells (HSCs)



Induced Pluripotent Stem Cells (iPSCs)



Other Stem Cells

Immunology Media

T Cells



B Cells



Natural Killer (NK) Cells



Other Immune Cells

Specialty Media

Chemically Defined Media

Other Cell Culture Media

Cell Culture Media Market - Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

Biopharmaceutical Production

Monoclonal Antibodies



Vaccines Production



Other Therapeutic Proteins

Diagnostics

Drug Screening and Development

Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine

Cell and Gene Therapy



Other Tissue Engineering and Regenerative Medicine Applications

Other Applications

Cell Culture Media Market - Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

Liquid Media

Semi-solid and Solid Media

Cell Culture Media Market - End Use Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

Pharmaceutical and Biotechnology Companies

Hospitals and Diagnostic Laboratories

Research and Academic Institutes

Other End uses

Cell Culture Media Market - Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)

North America

U.S.



Canada



Mexico

Europe

UK



Germany



France



Italy



Spain



Denmark



Sweden



Norway

Asia Pacific

Japan



China



India



South Korea



Australia



Thailand

Latin America

Brazil



Argentina

Middle East and Africa

South Africa



Saudi Arabia



UAE



Kuwait

List of Key Players in the Cell Culture Media Market

Sartorius AG

Danaher

Merck KGaA

Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.

FUJIFILM Corporation

Lonza

BD

STEMCELL Technologies

Cell Biologics, Inc.

PromoCell GmbH

Check out more related studies published by Grand View Research:

Cell Culture Media & Cell Lines Market - The global cell culture media & cell lines market is projected to reach USD 11.25 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 9.63% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market of cell culture media & cell lines is experiencing robust growth, driven by the expanding demand for biologics, cell and gene therapies, regenerative medicine, and advanced vaccine platforms. As biopharmaceutical R&D intensifies globally, there is a growing need for optimized, high-performance media formulations and validated cell lines that ensure consistency, scalability, and regulatory compliance across diverse applications.

The global cell culture media & cell lines market is projected to reach USD 11.25 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 9.63% during the forecast period, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market of cell culture media & cell lines is experiencing robust growth, driven by the expanding demand for biologics, cell and gene therapies, regenerative medicine, and advanced vaccine platforms. As biopharmaceutical R&D intensifies globally, there is a growing need for optimized, high-performance media formulations and validated cell lines that ensure consistency, scalability, and regulatory compliance across diverse applications. Cell Culture Media Storage Containers Market - The global cell culture media storage containers market size is anticipated to reach USD 4.26 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.55% from 2025 to 2030. Cell culture media storage containers are equipment or vessels built exclusively for storing cell culture media. The cell culture media containers have been developed to meet the unique needs of cell culture, for example maintaining a sterile environment, reducing evaporation, and protecting against light and temperature variations. Increasing R&D efforts, rising demand for biopharmaceuticals, and technical advances in the industry are propelling market expansion.

The global cell culture media storage containers market size is anticipated to reach USD 4.26 billion by 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.55% from 2025 to 2030. Cell culture media storage containers are equipment or vessels built exclusively for storing cell culture media. The cell culture media containers have been developed to meet the unique needs of cell culture, for example maintaining a sterile environment, reducing evaporation, and protecting against light and temperature variations. Increasing R&D efforts, rising demand for biopharmaceuticals, and technical advances in the industry are propelling market expansion. Cell Culture Market - The global cell culture market size is expected to reach USD 53.17 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 11.21% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The novel three-dimensional cell culture techniques and the growing need for them in biopharmaceutical development, vaccine production, and the rising global demand for advanced therapy medicinal products are expected to drive the market during the forecast period. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased vaccine development activities, especially in the novel mRNA and DNA vaccines space. Vaccine production at a large scale generates a high demand for vectors produced using cell culture techniques.

The global cell culture market size is expected to reach USD 53.17 billion by 2033, registering a CAGR of 11.21% from 2025 to 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The novel three-dimensional cell culture techniques and the growing need for them in biopharmaceutical development, vaccine production, and the rising global demand for advanced therapy medicinal products are expected to drive the market during the forecast period. The COVID-19 pandemic has increased vaccine development activities, especially in the novel mRNA and DNA vaccines space. Vaccine production at a large scale generates a high demand for vectors produced using cell culture techniques. Cell Culture Vitamins Market - The global cell culture vitamins market size is expected to reach USD 343.0 million by 2030 and is expected to grow at 5.6% CAGR from 2025 to 2030, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market has experienced considerable growth as there is an increase in reliance on cell culture technologies across various sectors, particularly in biopharmaceutical research and development.

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About Grand View Research

Grand View Research, U.S.-based market research and consulting company, provides syndicated as well as customized research reports and consulting services. Registered in California and headquartered in San Francisco, the company comprises over 425 analysts and consultants, adding more than 1200 market research reports to its vast database each year. These reports offer in-depth analysis on 46 industries across 25 major countries worldwide. With the help of an interactive market intelligence platform, Grand View Research Helps Fortune 500 companies and renowned academic institutes understand the global and regional business environment and gauge the opportunities that lie ahead.

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New York, New York--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Mhtwyat has announced a new initiative aimed at enhancing the standardization and verification of Arabic-language information available across digital platforms. The initiative follows increasing demand for reliable, structured content as users across the Middle East rely more heavily on online resources to navigate government services, financial procedures, regulatory requirements, and public-sector systems.

The company reports that its updated framework emphasizes verification before publication, alignment with official sources, and systematic updates in response to policy or procedural changes. According to Mhtwyat, the initiative is designed to reduce friction for users who depend on accurate, timely explanations when interacting with rapidly modernizing digital government environments.

Context for the Initiative

Digital transformation across the Middle East has increased reliance on online information for essential transactions. Inaccurate, outdated, or fragmented data can lead to repeated applications, processing delays, and reduced confidence in digital systems. Mhtwyat states that the new initiative is intended to address these challenges by offering structured, consistent, and verified Arabic explanations for processes that impact daily administrative tasks.

Framework and Methodology

Under the updated model, Mhtwyat implements a verification-first workflow in which topics are reviewed against authoritative sources prior to publication. The process includes standardized formatting, term consistency, and scheduled updates aligned with regulatory changes.

The company notes that this structure supports clarity at scale, particularly for mobile-first users who depend on direct and actionable information.

Specialized Content Operations

Mhtwyat's editorial operations involve domain-focused writers and editors who work within defined subject areas such as government services, finance, education, mobility systems, and digital-government procedures. This specialization is intended to ensure that content reflects both technical accuracy and contextual relevance.

Reducing the Impact of Misinformation

Mhtwyat reports that its verification-driven model aims to reduce economic and operational friction associated with misinformation, including repeated transactions, misinterpretation of service requirements, and increased pressure on support channels. The initiative seeks to streamline how users interpret procedural information across varying public-sector systems.

Positioning Within Evolving Information Ecosystems

As search platforms and AI-driven models increasingly prioritize structured, authoritative data, Mhtwyat's approach is designed to align with these emerging requirements. The company states that its updated framework supports broader regional efforts to build a more reliable Arabic digital knowledge infrastructure.

About Mhtwyat

Mhtwyat is a digital information platform focused on providing verified Arabic-language content across government, financial, and public-service domains. The platform emphasizes structured data, consistency, and real-time updates to support users navigating evolving digital systems.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275161

SOURCE: FG Newswire
Dubai, Nov. 19, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Jetex, a global leader in private aviation, and Jacob & Co., the globally renowned high-jewelry and high-watchmaking brand, proudly present a limited-edition timepiece created for global travellers.

The announcement coincides with the opening of Dubai Watch Week 2025 and Jetex's 20th anniversary, marking a new chapter in the company's expansion into the luxury lifestyle universe.

Inspired by the new-age private-jet traveller lifestyle, Jetex has selected Jacob & Co. as its exclusive partner to reinterpret the iconic Epic X through the Jetex DNA.

Expanding the Epic X concept, the Epic X Jetex ventures into new territory. Retaining the beloved 41 mm profile of the collection, the model introduces a full dial that amplifies its visual presence. The diamond pattern across the surface nods to Jacob & Co.'s dual identity as both a high-watchmaking and high-jewelry maison. Easy to wear, ergonomic, and executed in Jetex's world-renowned orange, the Epic X Jetex stands as the ultimate versatile Jacob & Co. timepiece.

"The art of watchmaking is close to many private jet travellers who are both luxury connoisseurs and devoted collectors. The Epic X Jetex timepiece is an emblematic creation linking the two brands as well as two essential luxury universes", said Adel Mardini, Founder & CEO of Jetex.

Throughout the 2025 edition of Dubai Watch Week, Jetex and Jacob & Co. will give attendees an exclusive look at their latest creation, spotlighting the tremendous creative dynamic between the two brands. The timepiece will also be on view at the Jetex Dubai and Jetex Abu Dhabi private terminals.

"Jacob & Co. and Jetex share a strategic vision. We offer the finest, most exclusive services. We cater to the same clients, people who demand the very best and the rarest experiences. Flying private with Jetex and owning a Jacob & Co. timepiece, or living in a Jacob & Co.-branded residence, are based on the same mindset," commented Jacob Arabo, Founder & Chairman of Jacob & Co.

Dedicated to shaking up the status quo, Jetex and Jacob & Co. unite their daring, entrepreneurial spirit with the tradition of Swiss high watchmaking. With this collaboration, Jetex joins an elite roster of Jacob & Co. partners, further cementing the maison's legacy in crafting timepieces that transcend function and become symbols of personal history.

- END -

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DELRAY BEACH, Fla., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The global Vascular Imaging Market, valued at US$3.03 billion in 2024, stood at US$3.19 billion in 2025 and is projected to advance at a resilient CAGR of 7.3% from 2025 to 2030, culminating in a forecasted valuation of US$4.54 billion by the end of the period. The increasing worldwide burden of cardiovascular illnesses, such as peripheral artery disease, coronary artery disease, and stroke, which is caused by lifestyle-related risk factors like smoking, obesity, diabetes, and hypertension, is the main factor driving the vascular imaging market.

Additionally, the integration of digital and cloud-based solutions for image management, government initiatives supporting early diagnosis, and the growing use of imaging in treatment planning and surgical navigation further accelerate market expansion. Key players in the vascular imaging market include Philips Healthcare (Netherlands), GE Healthcare (US), and Siemens Healthineers (Germany), among others.

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By product, the global vascular imaging market is segmented into systems & consoles, accessories & consumables, and software & services. Systems and consoles account for the largest market share in the vascular imaging market because they serve as the core platforms for multiple imaging modalities, such as ultrasound, CT, MRI, and hybrid systems, enabling high-resolution, real-time visualization of vascular structures. Their ability to integrate advanced software, AI-based image analysis, and workflow optimization makes them indispensable for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and specialized clinics. Additionally, the rising demand for minimally invasive procedures and the increasing adoption of multi-modality imaging solutions drive continuous investment in these systems, fueling faster market growth compared to standalone probes or accessories.

By Application, the global vascular imaging market is divided into several segments: Atherosclerosis, Aneurysm, Vasculitis, Deep Vein thrombosis, Arteriovenous malformations and fistulas, and other applications. The vasculitis segment is expected to account for the highest growth rate in the vascular imaging market, driven by the increasing need for accurate and early detection of vascular inflammation. Technological advancements in PET-CT, MRI angiography, and high-resolution ultrasound are improving the diagnosis and monitoring of both small- and large-vessel vasculitis. Rising cases of autoimmune and inflammatory vascular diseases, greater clinical awareness, and the use of imaging biomarkers for treatment planning are further fueling demand. As personalized medicine advances, vascular imaging is becoming essential for guiding therapy and tracking disease progression, propelling this segment's rapid expansion.

By geography, The Asia Pacific vascular imaging market is expected to experience significant growth from 2025 to 2030. Key players in the market are concentrating on enhancing their manufacturing capabilities in the Asia Pacific region. The growing demand for early and accurate disease diagnosis, a large aging population, and an increasing prevalence of chronic illnesses are fueling the adoption of advanced imaging technologies. Additionally, supportive government initiatives and expanding access to healthcare services in emerging economies are further accelerating market growth in the region.

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As of 2024, prominent players in the vascular imaging market are Siemens Healthineers (Germany), GE HealthCare (US), Philips Healthcare (Netherlands), and FUJIFILM Corporation (Japan).

Siemens Healthineers (Germany):

Siemens Healthineers holds a strong position in the vascular imaging market through its innovative imaging systems, advanced visualization software, and AI-powered diagnostic tools that support precise assessment of vascular conditions. The company's portfolio includes cutting-edge technologies such as the SOMATOM CT scanners, MAGNETOM MRI systems, and the Artis angiography platform, all designed to deliver high-resolution vascular images with exceptional clarity. Siemens' AI-Rad Companion and syngo.via platforms enhance image reconstruction, automate vessel analysis, and provide 3D/4D visualization for improved diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency. Additionally, Siemens Healthineers' focus on digitalization, minimally invasive image-guided procedures, and integration with its teamplay cloud-based ecosystem enables data-driven decision-making and personalized vascular care, reinforcing its leadership in the global vascular imaging market.

GE Healthcare (US)

GE Healthcare plays a significant role in the vascular imaging market through its advanced portfolio of imaging systems, software, and AI-driven solutions designed to enhance vascular diagnosis and treatment planning. The company offers a wide range of technologies, including CT, MRI, and ultrasound systems-such as the Revolution CT, LOGIQ E10, and SIGNA MRI platforms-optimized for high-resolution vascular imaging and detailed visualization of blood vessels. GE HealthCare's Edison AI platform and advanced post-processing software enable automated vessel analysis, plaque characterization, and 3D/4D reconstruction, improving diagnostic accuracy and workflow efficiency. Furthermore, its focus on integrated, cloud-based solutions and precision imaging enables clinicians to manage cardiovascular and peripheral vascular diseases more effectively, reinforcing GE HealthCare's strong position in the global vascular imaging market.

Philips Healthcare (Netherlands)

Philips Healthcare is a key player in the vascular imaging market, offering a comprehensive range of imaging systems and intelligent software solutions that enhance vascular diagnostics, treatment planning, and image-guided interventions. The company's portfolio includes advanced technologies such as the Philips Azurion image-guided therapy platform, the IntelliSpace Portal for 3D/4D image visualization and analysis, and high-resolution modalities like the Ingenia MRI and IQon Spectral CT systems. Leveraging AI and automation through its Precision Diagnosis ecosystem, Philips enables accurate vessel quantification, plaque assessment, and real-time visualization during minimally invasive procedures. Additionally, its emphasis on interoperability, workflow integration, and cloud-based data sharing through platforms like HealthSuite positions Philips as a leader in delivering efficient, patient-centered vascular imaging solutions.

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Related Reports:

MRI Systems Market

Top 10 Medical Device Technologies Market

Ultrasound Market

Digital X-ray Market

Diagnostic Imaging Market

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- The bank allows international financial institutions to be integrated into the Brazilian instant payment system

SAO PAULO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Brazilian bank BS2 reaffirms its leadership position in cross-border payment solutions by launching an innovative technology that connects global companies to Brazil's financial ecosystem. The new API, integrated with the Easy Pay platform - developed by BS2 in 2023 - allows foreign companies to offer payments via Pix QR Code to non-resident Brazilians and international visitors within the country. This audience - who did not have access to Pix because they do not have a local bank account - will be able to count on this facility to pay their consumption expenses in Brazil.

With this solution, international remittances can be processed 24/7, ensuring agility, security, and a borderless payment experience.

The evolution of Easy Pay also serves the public of foreign entrepreneurs who come to Brazil to do business and need a more practical and faster means of payment. "With our offer, we enable a local experience for foreigners, even if they do not have a checking account in Brazil or a CPF," explains Carlos Eduardo de Andrade, executive director of Foreign Exchange at BS2.

The solution is available to international, regulated and supervised financial institutions. "You just need to be connected to the Easy Pay platform to be able to offer this form of payment," says Andrade. "The end user will not need to make any kind of conversion. His account can be in pounds, for example, and the payment will be made in reais".

The modality created by BS2 serves both companies that operate in the B2B model and those that serve B2B2C. "Thus, we continue with the mission of delivering financial solutions so that companies can serve their ecosystems, whether they are formed by people or by other companies", says the executive.

About BS2

BS2 is a Brazilian financial ecosystem aimed at companies. With over 30 years in the market and a continuous innovation agenda, it combines technological robustness with expertise in credit, payments, foreign exchange, and insurance markets. Our financial solutions are ready to connect to third-party ecosystems through our Infratech offering, in As a Service format, either in a combined or individualized way. We are recognized as the first Brazilian financial institution to sign the UN non-tolerance pact on corruption. We have a A.br rating by Moody's.

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AUSTIN, Texas and TOKYO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- According to DataM Intelligence, the GCC Smart Cities and Digital Transformation Market Size reached USD 145.54 billion in 2024 and is projected to escalate to USD 907.12 billion by 2032, expanding at a remarkable CAGR of 25.70% from 2025 to 2032. The GCC region-comprising Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman, and Bahrain-is entering the fastest digital transformation era globally, supported by government-led megaprojects, AI-first national strategies, rising 5G penetration, hyperscale data center expansion, and rapid adoption of cloud, IoT, and analytics platforms across public and private sectors.

Over the last two years, the region has experienced an unprecedented surge in investments into smart grids, autonomous mobility, urban surveillance systems, digital hospitals, fintech ecosystems, and sustainable infrastructure powered by big data and AI. Flagship megacity projects such as NEOM, The Line, Lusail Smart City, Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan, Masdar City, and Oman Vision 2040 have become global benchmarks for integrated digital urban development.

Between mid-2024 and early-2025 alone, GCC governments announced over USD 67 billion in new public-private digital transformation commitments-making this one of the most aggressive smart infrastructure build-outs in the world.

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Regional Market Momentum: GCC Nations Enter a Hyper-Digital Growth Decade

The GCC region is transitioning from early-stage digital adoption to full-scale connected smart-city ecosystems. High disposable income, young digital-native populations, robust government funding, and competitively priced energy resources have allowed the region to scale digital megaprojects faster than comparable economies.

Key structural boosters include:

Rapid 5G rollout, with UAE and Saudi Arabia already achieving >97% population coverage .

. Massive AI programs such as UAE's USD 100 billion AI Vision and Saudi Arabia's USD 40 billion AI fund launched in 2024 .

and . Surge in digital government spending, with Saudi Arabia alone allocating USD 6.4 billion for digital transformation initiatives in its 2024-2025 fiscal cycle.

for digital transformation initiatives in its 2024-2025 fiscal cycle. Growing regional ambition to lead in smart manufacturing, autonomous logistics, telemedicine, fintech, and green hydrogen-powered smart districts.

The GCC stands out not only for spending power but for its ability to attract global digital players such as Microsoft, Google Cloud, Oracle, Ericsson, Dell, and Huawei into long-term infrastructure partnerships.

Market Segmentation Analysis:

By Offering (Hardware, Software, Services)

In 2024, hardware remained the dominant revenue generator due to large-scale deployments of IoT sensors, CCTV systems, surveillance cameras, traffic management devices, smart meters, 5G equipment, and energy management hardware across megacity construction zones. Hardware contributed an estimated 52% share, amounting to roughly USD 75.7 billion of the total market.

Software platforms-including cloud-native applications, AI engines, analytics systems, building automation software, and cybersecurity platforms-accounted for nearly 31% of the total market, or USD 45.11 billion. The region's rising demand for autonomous operations and predictive intelligence is fueling adoption of smart-city operating systems and digital-twin platforms.

Services-including consulting, system integration, managed cloud services, and long-term operation support-represented 17% of the market (around USD 24.73 billion) and are expected to grow the fastest through 2032 as governments outsource analytics, cybersecurity, digital experience management, and data infrastructure maintenance.

By Technology (AI, 5G, IoT, Cloud, Big Data, Edge, RPA, Others)

Artificial Intelligence led the technology segment in 2024, accounting for 29% of the GCC digital transformation market, with an estimated value of USD 42.2 billion. AI powers facial recognition, autonomous mobility, citizen services automation, energy optimization, and predictive infrastructure management.

5G technology followed with a 23% share, contributing USD 33.47 billion. The GCC is among the world leaders in 5G penetration and network quality, enabling real-time digital services, ultra-low latency infrastructure, and smart mobility operations.

IoT solutions, including sensor networks, connected utilities, and smart home systems, accounted for 18% of the market, equal to USD 26.2 billion. With more than 65 million active IoT endpoints deployed in 2024, GCC nations are scaling IoT faster than any global region except East Asia.

Cloud computing and big data analytics together generated roughly 17% of the total market, valued at USD 24.7 billion, driven by hyperscale data center expansions by Microsoft, Oracle, Google Cloud, and AWS in Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.

Edge computing and RPA accounted for the remaining 13%, or USD 18.9 billion, and are rapidly gaining momentum as enterprises focus on latency reduction, automation, and intelligent process management.

By Application (Transportation, Buildings & Infrastructure, Energy & Utilities, Healthcare, Retail, Education, Others)

Transportation was the leading application segment in 2024, generating USD 39.8 billion, supported by investments in autonomous mobility, smart traffic control, EV infrastructure, connected public transit, and AI-based road monitoring across Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Qatar.

Buildings & Infrastructure ranked second with USD 33.1 billion, driven by smart district development, digital twins, AI-enabled building management systems, and large-scale real estate modernization.

Energy & Utilities represented USD 27.4 billion, supported by smart-grid modernization, advanced metering, AI-based load balancing, and renewable energy integration, particularly in UAE and Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030 programs.

Healthcare applications generated USD 17.8 billion due to digital hospitals, remote diagnostics, AI-powered imaging, and national health-data platforms.

Retail, education, and other applications contributed the remaining USD 27.44 billion, showcasing growing digital consumer ecosystems.

By End-User (Residential, Commercial & Industrial, Government Authorities)

Government authorities were the largest end-user category in 2024, accounting for 48% of total market demand, or USD 69.8 billion, since most smart-city initiatives are led, funded, or co-funded by central governments.

The commercial & industrial segment held 37% share, contributing USD 53.8 billion, driven by manufacturing automation, real estate digitalization, smart logistics, and fintech modernization.

The residential sector accounted for 15%, or USD 21.8 billion, boosted by the rising adoption of smart home solutions, home automation, residential AI assistants, and community-level IoT systems across high-income households.

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Browse in-depth TOC on 'GCC Smart Cities and Digital Transformation Market'

70 - Tables

66 - Figures

195 - Pages

Latest Developments: GCC Market Shows Strong Investment Momentum

Major Announcements

Saudi Arabia announced USD 12.4 billion in new digital transformation and smart-infrastructure tenders under NEOM, Qiddiya, and ROSHN programs (Q4 2024 - Q1 2025).

in new digital transformation and smart-infrastructure tenders under NEOM, Qiddiya, and ROSHN programs (Q4 2024 - Q1 2025). UAE committed USD 4.2 billion in AI and digital public services expansion under its 'Digital Government Strategy 2025'.

in AI and digital public services expansion under its 'Digital Government Strategy 2025'. Qatar allocated USD 1.6 billion to expand Lusail Smart City's mobility and energy automation systems.

to expand Lusail Smart City's mobility and energy automation systems. Bahrain invested USD 820 million in next-generation cloud infrastructure and sovereign cloud programs.

in next-generation cloud infrastructure and sovereign cloud programs. Kuwait and Oman collectively announced USD 2.1 billion for national digital identity, smart utilities modernization, and cybersecurity enhancements.

Mergers, Partnerships, and Corporate Activity

Microsoft and Solutions by stc signed a regional cloud and AI capability expansion deal valued at USD 500 million .

signed a regional cloud and AI capability expansion deal valued at . Honeywell partnered with Alfanar Group on energy digitization programs worth USD 380 million in Saudi Arabia.

on energy digitization programs worth in Saudi Arabia. Wipro and TECOM Group expanded smart district automation projects across Dubai Internet City and Dubai Industrial City.

Top 5 Companies by 2024 Revenue (USD Billions)

Microsoft - USD 245.4 billion IBM - USD 61.9 billion Ericsson - USD 23.1 billion Honeywell International Inc. - USD 36.7 billion Wipro Limited - USD 11.2 billion

These companies maintain dominant positions in GCC digital transformation through their cloud platforms, AI suites, IoT solutions, telecom networks, and large-scale public-sector digital infrastructure contracts.

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Strategic Outlook: What Decision-Makers Should Expect by 2032

AI-driven government automation will reshape public service operations, reducing manual tasks by 40-60% in some ministries.

in some ministries. Ultra-connected autonomous mobility districts in Saudi Arabia and UAE will create new economic clusters for EVs, robotics, and digital logistics.

Data centers and sovereign cloud ecosystems will transform the GCC into a regional digital hub for MENA, South Asia, and Africa .

. Smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 facilities will accelerate industrial diversification away from oil dependence.

Related Report:

Digital Transformation Market Size Set to Triple to Over US$3 Trillion by 2030. Smart Cities Market Size to Surge at 22.9% CAGR to 2031 - Urban Infrastructure Gets Smart. IoT Security Market Size Set to Skyrocket from US$24.4 B to US$113.8 B by 2033. Cloud Infrastructure Market Share Set to Skyrocket at 23.8% CAGR Through 2031.

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LONDON, STOCKHOLM and ZURICH, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Optiml, creator of the global award-winning Real Estate Decision Intelligence platform (REDI), is pleased to announce that Catella Investment Management, one of Europe's leading investment and asset managers, has selected Optiml to support sustainability and financial decision-making for one of its European real estate portfolios.[MH1]

Catella Investment Management's adoption of the REDI platform reflects the growing need for technology that brings financial performance, decarbonisation planning, and sustainability intelligence together in one unified digital environment.

Supporting CIM's Transition and Investment Strategy

Catella Investment Management will use Optiml's Real Estate Decision Intelligence platform (REDI) to integrate financial, technical, and sustainability intelligence across fund, asset, transaction, and sustainability workflows. The platform will enable CIM to:

Develop asset-specific sustainability CAPEX measures aligned with medium- and long-term environmental targets, including energy, water, and waste considerations.





Model retrofit pathways that track NAV and IRR impacts while meeting regulatory and sustainability requirements.





Strengthen underwriting through integrated financial, technical, and sustainability insights.





Enhance alignment with EU Taxonomy and SFDR frameworks and reduce stranded-asset risk.

Driving Measurable Impact Across the Investment Lifecycle

Through REDI, CIM will be able to quantify the impact of retrofit measures on fund-level returns, carbon reduction, and asset value creation. This supports Catella's broader approach to aligning sustainability objectives with capital efficiency and long-term performance.

Reinforcing Optiml's Leadership in Sustainable Real Estate Intelligence

Catella Investment Management's selection of Optiml further expands the use of the Real Estate Decision Intelligence platform (REDI) among institutional real estate managers advancing data-driven transition strategies. The platform enables investors and fund managers to plan and execute CRREM-aligned decarbonisation pathways while assessing financial outcomes with clarity and precision.

About Optiml

Optiml is a Swiss technology company and creator of the global award-winning Real Estate Decision Intelligence platform (REDI). Optiml enables investors, fund managers, and asset owners to plan and execute CRREM-aligned decarbonisation strategies, fund-level CAPEX plans, and transaction underwriting decisions that align CO2 reduction with financial performance.

Learn more: www.optiml.com.

MH1. Still one porfolio.

Logo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2824595/5632142/Optiml_Logo.jpg

Press Contact:

Peter Panayi

Global Head of Go-To-Market

Optiml

ppanayi@optiml.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/optiml-announces-new-client-win-with-catella-investment-management-cim-expanding-adoption-of-its-real-estate-decision-intelligence-platform-redi-302620479.html
SANDUSKY, OHIO / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers is proud to announce its inclusion on the 2025 Inc. 5000 list , joining the nation's fastest-growing private companies and emphasizing its commitment to exceptional client service and steady growth.

Kyle Wright Sandusky personal injury lawyer

Kyle Wright Sandusky personal injury lawyer

Firm's Milestone Growth Recognized by Inc.

Since its founding in 1946, Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers has become a trusted source of legal representation across Ohio, offering expertise in personal injury, workers' compensation, criminal defense, bankruptcy, and more. With over 180 years of combined legal experience and offices in Sandusky, Port Clinton, Mansfield, Norwalk, Huron, and Vermilion, the firm has built a reputation based on results and compassion.

Firm Highlights & Recognition

Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers has a long record of success, having secured multimillion-dollar settlements in significant personal injury cases, including those involving trucking accidents, wrongful death, and catastrophic injuries. The firm's attorneys have also earned individual recognition for their skill and dedication.

Beyond individual accolades, the firm itself has been recognized by multiple respected legal organizations for its excellence in advocacy and commitment to client service, underscoring its reputation as one of Ohio's leading trial law firms.

About Inc. 5000

The Inc. 5000 list is published annually by Inc. Magazine and ranks the fastest-growing private companies in the United States. Its selection criteria are based on percentage revenue growth over a three-year period. Inclusion in this list is a prestigious recognition of a company's growth, innovation, and leadership.

About Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers

For nearly eight decades, Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers has delivered compassionate and personalized legal representation across Ohio. The firm handles a broad range of matters, including vehicle accidents, workplace injuries, criminal matters, premises liability, and more.

Their client-first approach, combined with proven courtroom success, positions Wisehart Wright as a leading firm both locally and statewide.

Media Contact:

Company Name: Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers

Phone: (419) 625-7770

Address: 502 W Washington St Sandusky, OH 44870

Website: https://www.ohattorneys.com/

Contact Information

Kyle Wright

Main Attorney

kademenos.personalinjury@gmail.com

(419) 625-7770



SOURCE: Wisehart Wright Trial Lawyers

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/wisehart-wright-trial-lawyers-named-to-the-inc.-5000-list-of-fas-1104019
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Lipari Mining Ltd. (Cboe Canada: LML) (FSE: 0Y90) (formerly Golden Share Resources Corporation) ("Lipari" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the company is participating in the upcoming 121 Mining Investment Conference in Dubai. Ken Johnson, President and CEO, and Wes Roberts, Vice President, Business Development, will be attending the conference on behalf of Lipari.

121 Mining Investment Dubai will be hosting over 150 mining companies and more than 500 sophisticated investors for two days of pre-arranged, targeted 1-2-1 meetings.

Alongside the curated schedule of pre-booked meetings matching investors with appropriate projects, the conference programme will provide expert commentary and the latest market intelligence on key industry developments.

This year's event is being held on Nov 26-27.

Any investors who would like to attend 121 Mining Investment London can register for a free pass here.

About 121 Mining Investment

The 121 Mining Investment global event series connects portfolio managers and analysts from institutional funds, private equity groups and family offices with mining company management teams for 1-2-1, private in-person meetings.

121 Mining Investment has an ever-expanding global portfolio, currently covering London, New York, Cape Town, Dubai and Singapore, as well as online editions throughout the year.

About Lipari Mining Ltd.

Lipari Mining is South America's leading diamond producer, with a track record of successful operations at the Brauna diamond mine in Brazil, which has produced over 1.26M carats to date. Lipari is now applying its expertise to advance the highly prospective Tchitengo Diamond Project in Angola, marking the next phase of growth for the Company.

The Company is committed to environmentally responsible mining practices. Lipari's Brauna mine is the only diamond mine in the world that recycles nearly 100% of the water used in ore processing, producing a dry tailings product which has potential as a soil remineralizer for the agricultural industry. Lipari's shares are listed for trading on the CBOE Canada exchange and trade under the symbol "LML", and the Frankfurt Stock Exchange under the symbol "0Y90.

Additional information on the Company can be found on its website at www.liparimining.com and by reviewing its profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

Contact:

Cautionary Note

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy any of the securities in the United States. The securities of LML have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to U.S. Persons unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release may contain "forward-looking statements" regarding the Company. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this press release and the Company does not intend, and does not assume any obligation, to update these forward-looking statements, except as required by law. Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "expects", "anticipates", "plans", "projects", "estimates", "assumes", "intends", "strategy", "goals", "objectives" or variations thereof or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved, or the negative of any of these terms and similar expressions) are not statements of historical fact and may be forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements include, among others, statements with respect to: the completion of the acquisition of the kimberlite processing plant, the ability to advance the planned bulk sampling of the Tchiuzo pipe; the Company's plans to update the historical feasibility study that was completed on the Tchiuzo kimberlite by SM Catoca; the timing and ability to complete a future equity financing; the ability to advance the Tchitengo Project to feasibility, the potential for a broader Tchitengo kimberlite field, the Company's plans, objectives, expectations, anticipations, estimates and intentions. All forward-looking statements and information are based on the Company's current beliefs as well as assumptions made by, and information currently available to, the Company concerning anticipated financial performance, business prospects, strategies, regulatory developments, development plans, exploration, development and mining activities and commitments. Although management considers these assumptions to be reasonable based on information currently available to it, they may prove to be incorrect. These statements involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause actual results or events to differ materially from those anticipated in such forward-looking statements, including the risks, uncertainties and other factors identified in Lipari's periodic filings with Canadian securities regulators. Forward-looking statements are subject to business and economic risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual results of operations to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from Lipari's expectations include risks associated with the business of Lipari; risks related to reliance on technical information provided by Lipari; risks related to exploration and potential development of the Lipari's mineral properties; business and economic conditions in the mining and diamond industries generally; fluctuations in commodity prices and currency exchange rates; uncertainties relating to interpretation of drill results and the geology, continuity and grade of mineral deposits; the need for cooperation of government agencies in the exploration and development of properties and the issuance of required permits; the need to obtain additional financing to develop properties and uncertainty as to the availability and terms of future financing; the possibility of delay in exploration or development programs and uncertainty of meeting anticipated program milestones; and other risk factors as detailed from time to time and additional risks identified in Lipari's filings with Canadian securities regulators on SEDAR+ in Canada (available at www.sedarplus.ca). Forward-looking statements are based on estimates and opinions of management at the date the statements are made. Lipari does not undertake any obligation to update forward-looking statements except as required by applicable securities laws. Investors should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements.

CBOE CANADA DOES NOT ACCEPT RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE ADEQUACY OR ACCURACY OF THIS NEWS RELEASE.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275175

SOURCE: 121 Mining Investment Conference
LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik, the global B2B media and events company, has announced that Procurement Magazine will now be published bi-weekly, doubling its editorial output to bring readers more timely insights, thought leadership, and industry analysis every month.

The shift reflects the magazine's rapid growth and the rising global demand for expert content on procurement transformation, digital strategy, and sustainable supply chains.

Each Procurement Magazine issue will continue to feature exclusive interviews with senior executives, in-depth company spotlights, and BizClik's signature Top 10 rankings, now delivered twice a month.

November 2025: Two Editions, Twice the Insight

The Early November 2025

The first November Issue features Aatish Dedhia, Founder and CEO of Zycus, who explores how agentic AI is revolutionizing procurement, shifting the focus from intake to outcome. The issue also includes a spotlight on data-driven procurement transformation, supplier collaboration strategies, and the evolving balance between automation and human decision-making.

Late November 2025

The second November issue , headlined by ZIP, dives deeper into the future of procurement intelligence and how automation is enabling organisations to simplify complexity while maintaining control, compliance, and efficiency at scale.

"Each edition of Procurement Magazine captures how innovation and leadership are transforming the procurement landscape," said Aaron McMillan, Editor of Procurement Magazine.

"Our late November issue spotlights the people and organisations driving real change from AI-powered transformation to the evolution of supplier collaboration, showing that procurement's next chapter is already being written."

Meeting Global Demand With Expanded Coverage

With procurement functions undergoing rapid change, the shift to bi-weekly publishing enables the magazine to keep pace with the latest developments, including AI-driven automation, supplier collaboration, regulatory changes, risk management, and value creation.

Each edition will continue to deliver:

Exclusive interviews with C-suite and senior procurement leaders

In-depth company spotlights and transformation case studies

Expert analysis on procurement strategy, ESG, risk, and resilience

Technology insights on AI, automation, analytics, and digital platforms

BizClik's highly regarded Top 10 rankings

Coverage of future-focused trends shaping global supply chains

A Milestone in BizClik's Expansion

Procurement Magazine's move to a bi-weekly schedule marks another milestone in BizClik's continued expansion of its procurement and supply chain portfolio, which includes Supply Chain Digital, Manufacturing Digital, and a growing series of Global Webinar Programmes connecting senior executives worldwide.

The magazine's new publishing cadence ensures a more agile editorial approach, keeping pace with the rapidly changing procurement landscape and providing continuous value to decision-makers navigating the complexities of global supply chains.

A Double-Issue Launch Highlighting the Future of Procurement

Early November 2025 Edition

This issue features Aatish Dedhia, Founder and CEO of Zycus, who outlines how agentic AI is transforming procurement operating models by enabling data-led, outcome-focused decision-making. The edition explores:

The rise of outcome-centric procurement

Data-driven transformation roadmaps

Supplier collaboration technology

The evolving human-automation balance

Late November 2025 Edition

The second issue , led by ZIP, investigates how automation is reshaping procurement intelligence at scale. Coverage includes:

The emergence of autonomous procurement workflows





Simplifying complexity while retaining organisational control





Achieving compliance and efficiency in high-volume environments

The growing strategic role of procurement technology partners

Strengthening BizClik's Procurement & Supply Chain Ecosystem

The bi-weekly transition aligns with BizClik's continued investment in its procurement and supply chain platforms, which include:

Procurement Magazine





Supply Chain Digital

BizClik's rapidly expanding Global Webinar Programme

International summits and awards across London, New York, Dubai, and Chicago

These platforms collectively reach a global audience of senior executives, giving Procurement Magazine's expanded schedule an even broader strategic impact.

Read the Latest Editions

Edition 45 - Featuring Aatish Dedhia, Founder at Zycus

- Featuring Aatish Dedhia, Founder at Zycus Edition 46 - Featuring Amanda Davies, Chief R&D, Procurement and Sustainability Officer at Mars

About Procurement Magazine

Procurement Magazine , part of BizClik's global digital publishing portfolio, is a leading voice in procurement and supply chain thought leadership. The magazine delivers exclusive insights, executive interviews, company reports, and strategic analysis to a global audience of senior professionals shaping the future of procurement.

About BizClik

BizClik is a global B2B media and events company producing sector-specific content across technology, sustainability, procurement, fintech, AI, and more. Through digital magazines, websites, newsletters, webinars, and award-winning events, BizClik connects enterprise leaders with executive audiences to drive strategic business engagement.

For more information, visit: www.bizclikmedia.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2826087/BizClik_Media_Procurement_Magazine_Bi_Weekly.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/procurement-magazine-goes-bi-weekly-delivering-more-executive-insights-and-industry-coverage-302620037.html
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Canada One Mining Corp. (TSXV: CONE) (OTC Pink: COMCF) (FSE: AU31) ("Canada One" or the "Company") is pleased to announce the CEO of the Company will be participating in the MiningTech North America Conference and Expo being held in Vancouver, British Columbia on November 20 and 21, 2025.

Peter Berdusco, CEO of the Company will participate in the opening panel discussion "Shaping the Future of Mining Through Investments, Collaboration, Technological Innovations, Digital Transformation, AI, Decarbonisation and Energy Transfer". As a speaker, he will also be presenting on "Mobile Metal Ion Sampling: Seeing What Conventional Soils Miss".

About the Conference and Expo

MiningTech North America Conference & Expo is firmly established as an international mining technology, innovation, AI, digital transformation & clean energy exhibition, bringing together the entire mineral resources value chain to Vancouver, BC.

As the minerals demand essential to the global energy transition is surging and the sustainable practices are in the spotlight, the mining industry stands at a transformative juncture of structural changes, where technology is the key to ensure the industry delivers on this strategic opportunity of the energy transition.

The event anticipated over 700 senior level executives from international organisations, governments and stakeholders from more than 20 countries for 2 days of partnering, knowledge sharing, networking and business matching.

About The Copper Dome Project

Copper Dome is located in the lower Quesnel Trough porphyry belt, one of British Columbia's most prolific mining districts. The Project directly adjoins Hudbay Minerals Inc.'s (TSX: HBM) producing Copper Mountain Mine to the north which hosts Proven and Probable Reserves of 702 million tonnes grading 0.24% Cu, 0.09 g/t Au, and 0.72 g/t Ag ( hudbayminerals.com ). Multiple mineralized zones have been identified across the Property, with historical drilling confirming high-grade copper associated with northeast-trending structures similar to those hosting mineralization at Copper Mountain.

The Project benefits from excellent infrastructure, enabling year-round access, cost-efficient exploration, and a stable, low-risk jurisdiction.

Historical Work Completed

Geophysics: 51 km of induced polarization (IP); airborne magnetic and electromagnetic (EM) coverage over ~50% of the Property

Sampling: 2,253 soils and 378 rocks collected

Drilling: 8,900+ m of diamond drilling

Trenching: Over 1 km excavated

With a five-year drill permit in place, the Company is focused on advancing the Project toward drill-ready target definition.

About Canada One

Canada One Mining Corp. is a Canadian junior exploration company focused on copper-the critical metal powering the global energy transition. The Company advances projects from discovery through resource definition with disciplined, data-driven exploration and responsible practices. Its flagship Copper Dome Project, near Princeton, British Columbia, targets a porphyry copper-gold system in a Tier-1 jurisdiction. Canada One aims to deliver sustainable growth and long-term value for shareholders and local communities.

On behalf of the Board of Directors of

CANADA ONE MINING CORP.

Peter Berdusco

President

Chief Executive Officer

Interim Chief Financial Officer

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release includes certain "forward-looking information" and "forward-looking statements" (collectively "forward-looking statements") within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities legislation. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein, without limitation, statements relating to the future operating or financial performance of the Company, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements are frequently, but not always, identified by words such as "expects", "anticipates", "believes", "intends", "estimates", "potential", "possible", and similar expressions, or statements that events, conditions, or results "will", "may", "could", or "should" occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements in this press release relate to, among other things: statements relating to the anticipated timing thereof and the intended use of proceeds. Actual future results may differ materially. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Forward looking statements reflect the beliefs, opinions and projections on the date the statements are made and are based upon a number of assumptions and estimates that, while considered reasonable by the respective parties, are inherently subject to significant business, technical, economic, and competitive uncertainties and contingencies. Many factors, both known and unknown, could cause actual results, performance or achievements to be materially different from the results, performance or achievements that are or may be expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements and the parties have made assumptions and estimates based on or related to many of these factors. Such factors include, without limitation: the timing, completion and delivery of the referenced assessments and analysis. Readers should not place undue reliance on the forward-looking statements and information contained in this news release concerning these times. Except as required by law, the Company does not assume any obligation to update the forward-looking statements of beliefs, opinions, projections, or other factors, should they change, except as required by law.

TSX Venture Exchange Disclaimer

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275176

SOURCE: Canada One Mining Corp.
Summit urges greater education, government alignment, and cross-sector collaboration to accelerate growth in non-Muslim markets.

Speakers emphasised that with strong infrastructure, the UK continues to be a leader in the Western world in Islamic finance, attracting investment from the Middle East and Asia and building on its world-class financial services ecosystem.

However, barriers remain, notably low public understanding of Islamic Finance and fragmented policy support, which could limit adoption, innovation and opportunities.

LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The first day of the 4th AlBaraka Summit in London closed yesterday at the JW Marriott Grosvenor Hotel in London. CEOs, investors, scholars and policymakers gathered to explore the opportunities and challenges of how Islamic Economy can expand in global markets, beyond Muslim majority countries.

The summit opened with keynote speeches from H.E. Yousef Hassan Khalawi, Secretary General of AlBaraka Forum and Lord Dominic Johnson, member of the UK House of Lords, former Investment Minister and former Co-Chairman of the Conservative Party.

Both highlighted the significant opportunity presented by the $5 trillion Islamic economy, projected to grow to $8 trillion within the decade, as well as the rising global interest in values-based, ethical, and sustainable financial models.

According to the London Stock Exchange Group's Islamic Finance Development Report 2025, global Islamic finance assets are set to surge to $9.7 trillion by 2029, marking one of the fastest-growing segments in the global financial system. This rapid expansion underscores the rising international

The summit showcased how the UK is playing a leading part in growing Islamic Finance in the Western world, attracting investment from the Middle East and Asia.

One of the standout elements of today's summit was the participation of several high-profile international speakers who brought valuable insights and depth to the discussions. Among them were H.E. Dr. Alderman Vincent Keaveny CBE, Former Lord Mayor of the City of London and Senior Advisor at DLA Piper; Dr. Abdurrahman Abdullahi, Deputy Director and Head of Non-Interest Banking at the Central Bank of Nigeria; H.E. Mr. Hamza K. Bawazir, Secretary General of the General Council for Islamic Banks and Financial Institutions; H.E. Atty. Arifa A. Ala, Senior Assistant Governor at the Central Bank of the Philippines; H.E. Mr. Charles Haresnape, Chief Executive Officer of Gatehouse Bank plc; Mr. Irshad Mahmood, General Partner and Islamic Finance Leader for the Deloitte network and Audit & Assurance Business Leader for Deloitte Bahrain; H.E. Mr. Faraz Khan MBE, Chief Executive Officer & Partner at Spectreco US and Founder & Director of Seed Ventures, and H.E. Mr. Shabir Chohan, Chief Executive Officer, Albaraka Bank South Africa - Board Member of Minara Chamber of Commerce - South Africa.

Their contributions offered fresh, forward-looking perspectives on the future of the Islamic economy and its expansion into global markets, enriching the dialogue and underscoring the importance of international collaboration to drive the sector's continued growth.

However, an overriding theme of the summit was addressing the challenges still to be faced in Islamic finance and sharing the lessons learned from international partners to fuel further economic growth.

His Excellency Mr. Yousef Khalawi, Secretary General of AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy, commented, "The UK is a global leader in financial and professional services. In 2023 this sector achieved a trade surplus of over 100 billion, confirming its competitiveness in the Global Market. Maintaining future growth will take a holistic approach involving Government leaders, Banks, Insurance and all major industries to develop and support skilled individuals who can leverage Islamic Finance economic models."

Key recommendations from the Summit to support non-Muslim majority economies to benefit from Islamic finance include:

Holistic policies that do not overburden individual sectors and support Sharia-compliant finance, such as corporate finance, insurance, etc., by providing a red thread through the whole government policy. The need for improved education and literacy in Islamic economics. Examples were drawn from international markets, such as the USA, where alternative student-loan models are being trialled, providing evidence of a strong public demand for ethical, interest-free financial tools. Working harder to dispel misconceptions held about inclusivity for non-Muslims. Increasing the visibility of Islamic finance models (and ethical finance models in general, whether Sharia or not), by working closely with local communities, and being more digitally native to attract the next generation of businessmen and women A greater focus on growth in SME markets.

The "why now" question was also discussed in detail. Speakers highlighted a number of "enabling conditions" such as a generational shift in wealth in the UK (including that from immigrants from the 1960s), increased digitisation, and infrastructure needs.

His Excellency Mr. Yousef Khalawi concluded, "The UK is, as many in the West are, at a crossroads where the technology exists, the market is ready, the opportunity is there. Today's summit reinforced the view of many that Islamic economy is not a fringe concept; it is a globally relevant, ethical model that supports inclusive, sustainable, and resilient growth. Many non-Muslim countries are incorporating Islamic economic principles into their financial systems, recognising their value in investment, finance, and long-term commercial partnerships."

As part of the summit, AlBaraka Forum premiered its new documentary film: " Sustainable Futures: Islamic Economy, Global Impact ."

The short film highlights the global rise of Islamic Economy across sectors and continents, and reinforces the summit's message that Islamic finance is not a regional concept - but a scalable, ethical model for inclusive and sustainable growth worldwide.

Strategic Partners and Sponsors

AlBaraka Group - Global Partner

Islamic Chamber of Commerce - Strategic Partner

Libyan Foreign Bank (LFB) - Platinum Sponsor

British Arab Commercial Bank (BACB) - UK

Aresbank - Spain

Banca UBAE - Italy

Gatehouse Bank - UK - Bronze Sponsor

About AlBaraka Forum

AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy is an independent, non-profit, global think tank, specialising in Islamic economy in its holistic sense. The Forum emerged as an extension of the deep-rooted heritage of its founder, Sheikh Saleh Abdullah Kamel (1941-2020) (may Allah bestow mercy on his soul), a heritage that covered various areas of research and development in Islamic economy.

The Forum seeks to enrich the research resources and serve the knowledge structure of Islamic economy, as well as to build partnerships and alliances with regional and international entities to foresee contemporary economic challenges and developments, in order to keep pace with Islamic economy and finance. This will enhance the outputs of the Forum as a global economic and financial knowledge beacon.

About the AlBaraka Summit Series

AlBaraka Summits Series, founded by Sheikh Saleh Kamel, aims to advance the global reach and impact of Islamic economics and finance. The series began in London, has since expanded to major economic hubs worldwide. It convenes thought leaders and influencers in Islamic economics to discuss timeless fundamentals and contemporary themes, embracing diverse economies from profit-driven enterprises to philanthropic endeavours.

AlBaraka Forum organises country-based summits, with the first version launched in London. The second summit is held annually in Saudi Arabia under the patronage of His Royal Highness the Prince of Madinah Region. Our latest summit in Turkiye was graced by the presence of H.E. Mr. Recep Tayyip Erdogan, the President of the Republic of Turkiye.

Transformation from AlBaraka Symposium to AlBaraka Forum for Islamic Economy

For nearly 50 years, AlBaraka Symposium has been the most important and largest gathering of top leading Islamic economists and experts - with a clear focus on Islamic finance - covering various disciplines: It is a hub for Sharia scholars specialising in financial transactions, as well as the world's top economists who specialise in Islamic economy, senior executives and academics. Therefore, the symposium has served as the most important starting point and the first entry point for a variety of newcomers to Islamic finance, including new researchers and executives.

The idea of transforming AlBaraka Symposium into a scientific institution was realised at the beginning of 2020, during the latter days of the late Sheikh Saleh Kamel (may Allah bestow mercy on his soul), who was renowned for his lifelong giving. This institution's activities are increasing beyond the influence of the annual symposium, and it makes a constant contribution throughout the year.

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2827707/AlBaraka_Forum_Lord_Dominic_Johnson.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/londons-4th-albaraka-summit-underscores-the-uks-momentum-in-a-global-shift-expanding-across-non-muslim-markets-302620541.html
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Scientists and historians came up with a coordinated position at a major congress dedicated to the common spiritual and educational heritage, which was held at the Center for Islamic Civilization of Uzbekistan.

Scholars and historians have expressed support for the call to defend traditional values amid growing conflicts and contradictions.

This call was made at the end of a three-day international congress in Tashkent entitled "Central Asia: A Common Spiritual and Educational Heritage - A Common Future." It brought together more than 300 participants - representatives of international organizations, the diplomatic corps, scientific and cultural institutions, as well as researchers and scientists from the countries of Central Asia and Azerbaijan.

Their support followed the opening address of the President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev: "In the current extremely difficult time, when confrontations and conflicts are intensifying in different regions of the world, the most urgent task for all of us remains the preservation of peace and stability. We must learn from history, approach any matter based on knowledge and enlightenment, strengthen harmony between different peoples and expand inter-civilizational dialogue."

In a speech read out to the participants, President Mirziyoyev set the general tone for the event. Conveying the spirit of the moment, he said: "As you know, the peoples of Central Asia and Azerbaijan are connected by strong centuries-old ties of friendship and brotherhood, they are united by a common history and culture, rich spiritual and scientific heritage. Since ancient times, the greatest thinkers and scientists have lived and worked on our land, who illuminated the world with the light of knowledge and enlightenment and made a worthy contribution to the development of world civilization."

Organized by the Center for Islamic Civilization of Uzbekistan, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the Academy of Sciences, the congress was the first international event dedicated to urgent issues of spiritual heritage and education.

The participants discussed the historical significance of the spiritual heritage, the mutual influence of the cultures of Central Asia, the history of the region and modern interregional relations. Particular attention was paid to the contribution of countries to the preservation, study and popularization of common cultural heritage, as well as the implementation of international initiatives aimed at the development of science, education and intercultural dialogue.

The event was especially symbolic because it was held in the new Center of Islamic Civilization. The complex, which will open to the general public in March 2026, embodies the 3,000-year history of the region, the Islamic Renaissance and the modern development of New Uzbekistan. It serves as a platform for studying civilizational heritage, educating young people and strengthening international cultural dialogue.

The congress was attended by ministers of culture, representatives of academies of sciences and religious institutes, national museums and libraries, as well as heads of national film studios, academies of arts, writers' unions and youth organizations.

They studied the historical significance of the spiritual heritage and the mutual influence of the cultures of Central Asia, the history of the region, modern interregional relations, economic integration and sustainable development.

More than 10 memorandums of cooperation were signed between scientific and cultural institutions of the participating countries to conduct joint research, academic exchange and implement joint projects to study and popularize the rich spiritual and cultural heritage of the region.

In the declaration, the participants stated: "We call on states, academic institutions, international organizations and cultural actors to join efforts to protect common values, strengthen mutual understanding and create a space where knowledge and education will become the basis for peace, trust and sustainable development."

The Congress also supported the new Kelajak Merosi International Award, established by President Mirziyoyev to recognize the merits of individuals and organizations that have made a significant contribution to the study of the scientific and spiritual heritage of the peoples of Central Asia and Azerbaijan.

The President called on the international community not only to admire the past, but also to learn from it for the future. Inspired by his initiative, the participants agreed to prepare a draft special resolution of the UN General Assembly on the recognition of "the contribution of the Islamic civilization of Central Asia to the development of world education, science and culture."

The Director of the Center, Firdavs Abdukhalikov, noted:

"Central Asia is not just a region, but a space of great ideas and creation, where the traditions of science, culture and enlightenment have been formed over the centuries. Here, at the crossroads of the cultures of Central Asia and Azerbaijan, a special spiritual tradition based on the single harmony of enlightenment and faith was born hundreds of centuries ago.

We are meeting today in the heart of Tashkent - within the walls of the Center for Islamic Civilization, established at the initiative of the President of the Republic of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev. This center has become a symbol of respect for our common heritage, a space where the past, present and future of enlightenment meet. We have gathered here not just as representatives of different countries, but as like-minded people, united by common spiritual roots and a desire for mutual understanding.

On behalf of the head of our country, the Center is ready to actively work together with respected partners - to exchange experience, support joint research, educational and museum initiatives, implement cultural projects that reveal the rich heritage of the region in the name of studying, preserving and popularizing the cultural heritage of our countries. Only by combining efforts, we will be able to turn our common past into the basis of a common future," said the Director of the Center.

Information for editors

The Center for Islamic Civilization is located on historic territory in the heart of Tashkent, next to the spiritual core of the capital of Uzbekistan, the Hazrati Imam Mosque. The three-storey building measuring 145 by 115 meters has a central dome with a height of 65 meters. In the center of the complex is the Quran of Uthman - one of the world's oldest manuscripts of the Quran, included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register.

The main museum area occupies about 15,000 m, and other parts of the building house a research center, restoration and digitalization laboratories, a library with more than 200,000 unique publications and offices of international organizations. Visitors will be able to see rare artifacts from different eras, acquired at the initiative of the President of Uzbekistan at international auctions and from private collections. The Center also presents collections of museums from around the world and materials of the World Society for the Preservation, Study and Promotion of the Cultural Heritage of Uzbekistan (WOSCU). Interactive exhibitions will show achievements in algebra, astronomy and medicine - some of the most important discoveries of the Golden Age of Islam.

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/traditional-values-must-be-protected-regional-congress-at-tashkents-center-for-islamic-civilization-urges-302620551.html
Through its collaboration with The Akshaya Patra Foundation, FedEx is helping strengthen India's school nutrition program with clean mobility solutions.

MUMBAI, INDIA / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Federal Express Corporation (FedEx), the world's largest express transportation company, continues to collaborate with The Akshaya Patra Foundation, reinforcing its commitment to enabling access to nutritious mid-day meals under the Pradhan Mantri Poshan Shakti Nirman (PM Poshan) Program, advancing sustainable mobility, and supporting advocacy to strengthen the program's reach and impact across India.

As part of this year's support, FedEx has funded four electric vehicles (EVs)-two in Panvel, Maharashtra and two in Delhi-dedicated to delivering freshly prepared, hygienic meals to students in government and government-aided schools. Each EV enables the delivery of over 250,000 meals annually, reaching an equivalent number of children depending on route logistics.

Since the beginning of the collaboration in 2022, the initiative has cumulatively supported the delivery of nearly one million mid-day meals across multiple cities. By replacing conventional fuel vehicles, these EVs help The Akshaya Patra Foundation reduce carbon emissions and lower operating costs, allowing more resources to be directed toward expanding meal distribution.

Through the fuel savings alone, The Akshaya Patra Foundation has been able to support an additional 130,000+ meals, amplifying the programme's reach while contributing to its long-term sustainability. This transition supports The Akshaya Patra Foundation's long-term sustainability goals by integrating climate-conscious practices into its mission of nourishing children's futures.

Suvendu Choudhury, vice president of operations and planning and engineering, India, FedEx, said, "At FedEx, we believe access, whether to markets, opportunities, or nutrition, can transform lives. Our collaboration with The Akshaya Patra Foundation reflects how logistics innovation can advance social progress, helping children access nutritious meals through cleaner, more efficient delivery solutions. By integrating EVs into this initiative, we're strengthening community infrastructure while contributing to India's sustainability goals."

Mr. Dhananjay Ganjoo, CMO, The Akshaya Patra Foundation:

"We are grateful to FedEx for their sustained commitment to our mission of nourishing children and empowering education. By integrating sustainable mobility solutions like electric vehicles with mid-day meal service, this collaboration not only addresses immediate nutritional needs but also aligns with a greener, more sustainable future. Together, we are ensuring that every meal delivered is a step towards nurturing healthier, more capable citizens of tomorrow."

Through purpose-driven efforts like this, FedEx and The Akshaya Patra Foundation are demonstrating how innovation in logistics can create measurable social impact-bridging the gap between nutrition and learning, and advocating for scalable, sustainable public feeding programmes that support India's inclusive growth. Experience the story behind the numbers here.

#### END ####

About FedEx:

FedEx connects people and possibilities around the world through a broad portfolio of transportation, e-commerce, and business services. Its commitment to innovation and technology extends to fostering partnerships that empower the next generation of engineers and entrepreneurs. Read the 2025 FedEx Economic Impact Report here.

About The Akshaya Patra Foundation :

The Akshaya Patra Foundation is a social impact organisation committed to addressing classroom hunger and supporting children's health and education. As an implementing partner of the Government of India's PM POSHAN scheme, Akshaya Patra serves 2.35 million mid-day meals to beneficiary children across 25,000+ schools. Additionally, it provides 8 lakh servings under the Morning Nutrition Programme, contributing to improved child health, increased school enrolment, attendance and retention, and better learning outcomes.

Akshaya Patra has established a robust operational network, currently functioning in 78 locations across 16 states and 3 union territories. It has set up 76 state-of-the-art centralised kitchens-globally recognised for their scale, efficiency and food safety standards-and adopted the decentralised model in two locations where setting up centralised infrastructure is difficult due to difficult terrain and road connectivity.

Akshaya Patra continuously forges partnerships and leverages technology to cater to millions of children and has served over 4 billion meals since 2000. The momentous milestone was commemorated at a special event at the UN headquarters in New York on 2 April 2024.

For more details, please log on: www.akshayapatra.org

Click here to learn about FedEx Cares, our global community engagement program.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from FedEx on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:

Spokesperson: FedEx

Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/fedex

Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: FedEx

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/transportation/fedex-enables-sustainable-delivery-for-over-one-million-mid-day-meals-under-the-pm-p-1104402
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Coloured Ties Capital Inc. (TSXV: TIE) (OTC Pink: APEOF) (FSE: 97A0) ("CTI" or the "Company"), announces today that it has, together with Kal Malhi, Rauni Malhi (the "Concerned Shareholders"), a group of shareholders holding more than 5% of the issued and outstanding common shares of Labrador Gold Corp. (TSX.V: LAB) (OTCQB: NKOSF) (FNR: 2N6) ("Labrador"), requisitioned a special meeting of shareholders (the "Meeting") of Labrador pursuant to section 105 of the Business Corporations Act (Ontario) ("OBCA").

In addition to Labrador's current board and management's continued failure to execute on any viable commercial opportunity in the resource sector, Labrador is also in significant breach of its obligations under applicable corporate legislation. Labrador's last annual meeting of shareholders was held on June 27, 2024. Under subsection 94(1)(a) of the OBCA, the Corporation was required to hold its next annual meeting no later than September 27, 2025. Despite this, the Corporation announced on August 13, 2025 that it intended to hold an annual general and special meeting of shareholders on December 2, 2025, well past the statutory deadline.

Further, Labrador has failed to fix a record date for the proposed meeting and has not delivered a notice of meeting or accompanying materials to shareholders in advance of the announced December 2, 2025 meeting date, for which the deadline for mailing proxy materials has passed. The only conclusion from this inaction is that Labrador did not intend to hold the proposed meeting. The failure to hold any meeting of shareholders for more than 16 months constitutes a breach of the OBCA and reflects a broader pattern of non-compliance and negligence of basic fiduciary duties by Labrador and an entrenchment of Labrador's leadership.

The Meeting requisition requests that a meeting of shareholders be held as soon as practicable, and in any event no later than January 18, 2025, to bring Labrador in compliance with corporate legislation and shareholders meeting obligations while ensuring that Labrador can pursue a credible plan to enhance value for all shareholders. This date reflects both the seriousness of the Labrador's ongoing statutory non-compliance and the urgency of restoring proper corporate governance, while still providing Labrador with adequate time to prepare and deliver all required meeting materials.

The Meeting has been requisitioned by the Concerned Shareholders for the following purposes:

a) to remove the incumbent directors of Labrador, being James Borland, Trevor Boyd, and Roger Moss, as well as any directors who may be appointed to the board of Labrador prior to the Meeting;

b) to elect four new directors to the Board, being Kulwant Malhi, Ronald Wortel, Jean Lafleur, and Tara Asfour.

Upon Labrador's initiation of the required steps to schedule the Meeting, set a record date, and distribute meeting materials to shareholders, the Concerned Shareholders will present the broader shareholder base with a comprehensive plan to advance Labrador's economic objectives going forward. This plan will outline a commercially viable strategy for deploying the Company's cash reserves and project acquistions and will provide shareholders with a clear opportunity to vote on a defined economic path forward for Labrador.

Concerned Shareholders Nominees' Profiles

Kulwant (Kal) Malhi is a Canadian entrepreneur, venture capitalist, and retired law enforcement officer with a distinguished background in financial markets and innovation. A former member of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Mr. Malhi served in the drug enforcement and organized crime divisions, where he gained critical expertise in investigation, strategic operations, and leadership under pressure. In 2008, he founded BullRun Capital Inc., a venture capital and private equity firm that has since become a driving force in financing and guiding early-stage ventures with transformative potential. Over the course of his career, Mr. Malhi has raised and deployed more than $150 million in capital, with a track record of identifying high-value opportunities, building world-class teams, and advancing projects into successful public companies. Through BullRun, Mr. Malhi has played a pivotal role in advancing ventures across natural resources, biotechnology, cannabis, and security technology. His work includes vending the SPAR Potash property into Raytec Metals, which later merged with Africa Oil (now Meren Energy); acquiring the Graphite Creek property, now being developed by Graphite One; founding Cannabix Technologies, which created a marijuana breathalyzer and reached a market capitalization of more than $400 million; and founding Patriot One Technologies, which achieved over $600 million in market value within two years and now operates as Xtract One on the TSX. He also led a successful shareholder action at Growmax Resources, restructuring the company into Coloured Ties Capital, and more recently founded Lafleur Minerals, which acquired the Beacon Gold Mill and Swanson Gold Deposit with plans to restart gold production in 2026. Mr. Malhi's entrepreneurial vision extends beyond resource development and capital markets. He has consistently focused on fostering innovation at the intersection of academia and industry, supporting research initiatives with strong commercialization potential in biomedical, agricultural, and technology sectors. Leveraging his extensive network of investors, scientists, and industry leaders, he continues to assemble high-impact teams dedicated to unlocking the commercial potential of cutting-edge advancements.

Ronald Wortel is a seasoned finance executive with over 30 years of experience in the resource industry, specializing in project analysis, transaction due diligence, and financing. He began his career in 1997, providing equity research coverage on the mining sector for sell-side investment banks including National Bank, Dundee Capital, and Northern Securities. Initially focused on major gold companies, he later shifted to the junior resource sector with an emphasis on near-term production stories. In 2006, he joined Pathway Asset Management, a resource-focused fund providing flow-through financing to exploration companies. During his tenure, he reviewed hundreds of gold and other resource projects as the fund deployed over $1 billion into the sector. Currently, Mr. Wortel serves as a Senior Minerals & Mining Equity Research Analyst at Zacks Small-Cap Research, and also operates as a business strategies consultant and research analyst through GOLDENi Investment Intelligence, while acting as a technical and market advisor to Tartisan Nickel Corp. Prior to joining Zacks in 2023, he served as President and Qualified Person for Silver Bullet Mines Inc., Executive Vice President of Mining Investments at MineralFields Group and Marquest Asset Management, and as a gold and base metals equity research analyst with Northern Securities Inc. and Dundee Securities Corp. He began his career as a project engineer at Golder Associates Ltd. His commentary and insights have appeared in publications such as The Wall Street Transcript, The Northern Miner, and various small-cap investment platforms. Mr. Wortel holds an MBA in Finance and International Management from the Ivey School of Business in London, Ontario, and a B.A.Sc. (Honours) in Geological Engineering from the University of Waterloo. He is a licensed Professional Engineer (P.Eng.) in the Province of Ontario and is a Qualified Person (QP) under NI 43-101 standards.

Jean Lafleur is a Professional Geologist with 45 years of experience in mineral exploration and geology, both in Canada and internationally, including the USA, Mexico, Latin America, Ireland, Spain, and Africa. He has held C-suite executive roles with a number of junior exploration companies, successfully leading exploration programs in Quebec, Ontario, Mexico, and Africa. Early in his career, Mr. Lafleur worked with major companies such as Newmont, Falconbridge, Dome Mines, and Placer Dome, where he gained foundational experience in exploration for precious and base metals, nickel and PGEs, uranium, and iron. Since the early 2000s, he has remained active as a technical, management, and financing consultant for junior explorers through his private consultancy firm. His expertise spans corporate and project evaluations, audits, technical reporting, exploration program planning and execution, as well as investment presentations across Canada, the U.S., and Europe. Mr. Lafleur holds B.Sc. and M.Sc. degrees in Geology from the University of Ottawa and has consistently demonstrated strong leadership, strategic planning, and a proven track record in guiding teams toward successful mineral discoveries. He currently serves as a Senior Consultant, North America, for Appian Capital Advisory LLP, a mining-focused private equity firm based in London, UK, where he leverages his extensive professional network to source and evaluate potential mining investment opportunities in North America. In addition to his work with Appian, Mr. Lafleur is engaged as a mineral exploration consultant and contractor with Explo-Logik Inc. and Dolomite International, continuing to contribute his expertise to exploration efforts worldwide.

Tara Asfour is a capital markets executive with over 12 years of experience specializing in investor relations, fundraising, business development, corporate communications and marketing. She has built her career across the resource and technology sectors, advising both public and private companies on capital markets strategy and growth. Ms. Asfour currently serves as an advisor on Communication and Investor Relations at LaFleur Minerals Inc. and Director of Investor Relations at Fancamp Exploration Ltd. Throughout her career, she has held progressive leadership roles including Director Business Development at Central America Nickel Inc., Investor Relations Manager at Red Pine Exploration Inc., Director Business Development at Partners Capital Group, Advisor at FairGreen Capital Partners, Communications Director at Prime Drink Group Corp, among others. Across these mandates, Ms. Asfour has led over US$550 million in fundraising and strategic development initiatives, in addition to US$250 million in financial guarantee products and multiple commodity offtake negotiations. Her work spans North American and international markets, where she has advised issuers on capital formation, corporate visibility, strategic partnerships, and investor engagement. She holds an MBA from Herzing University, a Certificate in Financial Markets from Yale, and a Certificate in Alternative Investments from Harvard Business School. Ms. Asfour also earned the Institute for Governance (IGOPP) Certification in Governance, Ethics in Business Environment, and Corruption Prevention. Known for her strategic insight, disciplined execution, and deep capital markets expertise, Tara Asfour is recognized as an effective advisor to growth-stage and emerging companies seeking to strengthen their market presence, investor networks, and strategic positioning.

Additional Information

The information contained in this news release does not and is not meant to constitute a solicitation of a proxy within the meaning of corporate or securities laws. At this time, the Company does not currently intend to publicly solicit proxies or to acquire additional shares before the Meeting, but reserves the right to reconsider these positions in compliance with applicable securities laws.

The Company emphasizes its commitment to elevating Labrador's transparency, governance, and operational excellence within the global mining and resources sector. The board nominees intend to reposition Labrador for long-term success through prudent capital allocation, leadership renewal, and the pursuit of value-accretive opportunities, guided by a professional and shareholder-focused approach.

ABOUT COLOURED TIES CAPITAL INC.

Coloured Ties is a publicly traded Canadian-based venture capital firm focused on early-stage investments in companies in the junior resources and breakthrough and disruptive technologies. Coloured Ties' investment strategy is to invest early in multiple private and public companies across a variety of sectors that merit investment to advance promising ventures globally. Coloured Ties invests early-stage in promising projects, serving as the Founding or Early-Stage investor and providing investees with advisory services and access to the Company's ecosystem.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward-Looking Statements: Certain information in this news release may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements and information generally can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "may," "will," "expect," "intend," "estimate," "anticipate," "believe," "should," "plans," "continue," or similar expressions suggesting future outcomes or events. Forward-looking information in this news release may include, but is not limited to, statements of the Company regarding (i) how the Company intends to exercise its legal rights as a shareholder of Labrador, and (ii) its plans to make changes to the board of directors of Labrador.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275178

SOURCE: Coloured Ties Capital Inc.
Opening ceremony attended by a distinguished delegation of national, provincial, and local dignitaries

First concentrate from Phase 1 concentrator produced on November 18, 2025

Masodi Wastewater Treatment Works officially opened, an industry-leading, public-private partnership to sustainably source water for the Platreef Mine

Mokopane, South Africa--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Ivanhoe Mines (TSX: IVN) (OTCQX: IVPAF) Executive Co-Chair Robert Friedland and President and Chief Executive Officer Marna Cloete are delighted to announce that on November 18, 2025, the President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, officially opened the Platreef platinum-palladium-nickel-rhodium-gold-copper mine. The opening ceremony took place ahead of the 2025 G20 Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, scheduled from November 22 to 23, 2025.

A delegation of national, provincial, and local dignitaries attended the opening ceremony, led by the President, and including former President and Ivanhoe Mines board member, Kgalema Motlanthe, as well as Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, Premier of Limpopo Province.

The delegation was greeted by board members and senior management from Ivanhoe Mines and Ivanplats, representatives from Ivanplats' historically disadvantaged, broad-based, black economic empowerment (B-BBEE) partners, and representatives from the Japanese partnership consortium, consisting of ITOCHU Corporation, Japan Oil, Gas and Metals National Corporation (JOGMEC), and Japan Gas Corporation.

President Ramaphosa first unveiled a commemorative plaque and conducted a ribbon-cutting at the concentrator, marking the official opening of the Platreef Mine, before pressing the button to start the concentrator's operations. This was followed by a ceremony attended by over 2,000 people, including Platreef's workforce, of which 70% are from local communities and nearly 30% are female.

Watch a video on the presidential visit: https://vimeo.com/1138434572/391a46636b?fl=pl&fe=sh

Ivanhoe Mines' Founder and Executive Co-Chairman Robert Friedland spoke as follows (quoted verbatim):

"We are all bubbles in a stream ... when we first came here in the 1980s, this was the Lebowa Homeland Administration, and we made an agreement with [the administration]  there was a company here that controlled all of the mineral rights called JCI, a division of the Anglo American corporation  we were threatened and we were told that nothing would ever be mined here, and we were told that it would be impossible to develop a mine  but if we ever did, Mr. Davison [then CEO of JCI] said we would develop this mine over his dead body  I learned that he passed away in June  I'm not sure whether he's going to heaven or the other place  maybe that's yet to be decided  but I want to say that when I met President Ramaphosa as a much younger man  I'm 75 years of age now  I'm a grandfather  when I met him, he was also much younger  and he inspired me and all of us in the vision of Nelson Mandela to change the face of South Africa.

"This will be the largest mine in the African continent for precious metals  today we just have Phase 1, the baby mine  the first little bubble  in two years, the giant shaft will begin, the largest shaft in Africa  all of this is because of the vision we received from President Ramaphosa in the early days.

"150,000 historically disadvantaged, local black people are actually equity owners in this mine ... 26% of this mine is operated by independent trusts on behalf of local people and over 60% of our workers are from this community ... and all of our miners are proud South Africans ... I thank God for your efforts ... I thank all of you and a humbly say I want to thank our Japanese partners who invested, brought capital into this country ... I want to thank the leadership of first President Kgalema Motlanthe and then President Cyril Ramaphosa ... thank you very much ... God bless all of you who will make this mine live for another 200 years."

Cyril Ramaphosa, President of the Republic of South Africa, also spoke at length during the opening ceremony:

"The commencement of production at Platreef is in many ways a culmination of a long journey that began with the initial exploration more than 27 years ago. Robert said this as a baby step [for Ivanplats], but I see a giant step for the community of Mokopane and a gigantic step for our country, South Africa, and we should give a big round of applause for this progress. Today, having finally reached the production phase, is a testament to decades of hard work, resilience, and persistence. This is an important moment for Ivanplats, for the mining industry, and for our country as a whole.

"This mine begins its life opening a new page in our country. This is the first mine that is really opening with the full involvement of the community, not only as workers but as equity owners, as owners of this wonderful resource that is going to be mined here  so this mine is breaking new ground, it is breaking history, and it is opening up a new chapter of how mining should really be done in our country."





(L-R, foreground) Ivanhoe Mines' Founder and Executive Co-Chairman, Robert Friedland, and President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, sharing a pair of scissors; Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, and Ivanhoe Mines' President and Chief Executive Officer, Marna Cloete, cutting a ribbon marking the formal opening of the Platreef Mine. (L-R background) Former President of South Africa, Kgalema Motlanthe, and Bill Hayden, former Ivanhoe Mines director. Mr. Hayden was the geologist who originally conceived the idea of mineral exploration in the Lebowa Homeland Administration, and he was instrumental in the initial discovery of the Flatreef orebody.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_001full.jpg





Over 2,000 people attended the opening ceremony, including members of Ivanplats' workforce, of which 70% are from local communities and nearly 30% are female.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_002full.jpg





(L-R) Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, Ivanhoe Mines' Founder and Executive Co-Chairman, Robert Friedland, and former Ivanhoe Mines director Bill Hayden.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_003full.jpg





(L-R) The delegation of national, provincial, and local dignitaries, including President of the Republic of South Africa, Cyril Ramaphosa, former President Kgalema Motlanthe, and Premier of Limpopo Province, Dr. Phophi Ramathuba, was guided around the newly commissioned Platreef Phase 1 operations by Ivanhoe Mines' Founder and Executive Co-Chairman, Robert Friedland, President and Chief Executive Officer, Marna Cloete, and Chairperson of Ivanplats, Dr. Patricia Makhesha.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_004full.jpg

During the ceremony, first concentrate was produced from the Platreef Mine's Phase 1 concentrator

The Platreef Mine's Phase 1 concentrator commenced the final stages of hot commissioning on October 29, 2025, with the first feed of platinum-palladium-nickel-rhodium-gold-copper ore. The first production of concentrate took place during the ceremony on November 18, 2025.

As announced on May 8, 2025, underground development of the thick, high-grade Flatreef platinum-palladium-nickel-rhodium-gold-copper orebody on the 850-metre level commenced on April 30, 2025. Since then, to October 30, 2025, a total of 391 metres of reef development in ore has been completed, and of the total 21,702 tonnes of ore blasted, 15,369 tonnes have been hoisted to surface. Reef development on the 750-metre level has also recently commenced. Development ore continues to be hoisted to surface via Shaft #1 and stored in surface stockpiles. The lower-grade development ore stockpiles will be used to feed the 0.8-million-tonnes-per-annum (Mtpa) Phase 1 concentrator during the initial stages of ramp-up.

Equipping of Shaft #3, which will more than quadruple available hoisting capacity to up to 5 Mtpa, continues to progress well and is on schedule for completion and commissioning in March 2026. Long hole stoping (production mining) is expected to commence in early Q2 2026, once Shaft #3 is operational.

The underground delineation drilling program, which commenced last year ahead of developing the first long-hole ore blocks, has progressed very well, with a total of 16,110 metres drilled to date. All assays reconcile well with Ivanplats' geological models and mine plan.

Recruitment continues ahead of the ramp-up of Phase 1, with the Ivanplats workforce now over 2,200 employees and contractors, including more than 70% locally based and 26% female. The workforce will continue to grow as the project team has recently started development work on Phase 2.





Aerial view of the Platreef mine site, with Phase 1 concentrator in the foreground and the Shafts #1, #2, and #3, and associated surface infrastructure in the background. Once operational, the combined hoisting capacity of all three shafts will be up to 13 Mtpa, enough to produce over 1 million ounces per year of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold, plus significant additional nickel and copper.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_005full.jpg

Masodi Wastewater Treatment Works officially opened, an industry-leading, public-private partnership to sustainably source water for the Platreef Mine

On November 11th, 2025, the Masodi Wastewater Treatment Works, in Mokopane, Limpopo Province, was officially opened. The opening ceremony was attended by senior government officials, key private-sector leaders, and senior management from Ivanplats. The state-of-the-art wastewater treatment works have significantly improved sanitation and public health in Mokopane and surrounding communities since its completion in 2024. Municipal wastewater is recycled at the facility, enabling the water to be reused for industrial purposes. The wastewater facility will also significantly benefit Mokopane's local economy, enabling the start-up and future expansions of the Platreef Mine, which otherwise would not be possible in the water-scarce region. The Masodi Wastewater Treatment Works was developed through a pioneering public-private partnership formed between the Mogalakwena Local Municipality and Ivanplats.

Project development on Phase 2 expansion is already underway, targeting completion in Q4 2027, to increase production to approximately 450,000 ounces of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold

The Ivanplats' project team has commenced work on Phase 2 development, with the concentrator expansion targeted for completion in Q4 2027. DRA Global of Perth, Australia, was recently appointed as the engineering, procurement, and construction management (EPCM) contractor for the mine and the 3.3-million-tonne-per-annum Phase 2 concentrator. DRA Global was the EPCM contractor that delivered the construction of the Phase 1 concentrator on schedule in June 2024. Earthworks on the Phase 2 concentrator site, located adjacent to the Phase 1 concentrator, are scheduled to commence in Q1 2026.

In addition, Shaft #2's concrete headgear is now completed, and the expansion of the shaft to a diameter of 10 metres will commence following the appointment of the contractor in Q4 2025. Raise boring of Shaft #2 to its initial diameter of 3.1 metres was completed in Q4 2024.

Negotiations for Platreef's Phase 2 project finance are advancing well

In December 2023, Ivanplats concluded a senior debt facility with Societe Generale and Nedbank Limited to fund the construction of Phase 1. An initial $70 million was drawn, with a further $30 million drawn in the second quarter of 2025.

Following the completion of the 4.1 Mtpa feasibility study, Ivanhoe Mines has been focused on arranging an enlarged project finance package for the majority of the expansion capital requirements for Phase 2.

Negotiations are advancing well for a $700 million Phase 2 senior project finance facility. Ivanhoe is anticipating that the new financing will be in place during Q1 2026.

Financing for the future Phase 3 expansion is expected to be underpinned by cash flow generated from Platreef's Phase 1 and 2 operations.

The Platreef Mine is set to be one of the largest and lowest-cost producers of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold, with nickel and copper by-products

On February 18, 2025, two independent studies were completed on the three-phase development of the Platreef Mine. This included an updated Feasibility Study on the Phase 2 expansion to 4.1 Mtpa of processing capacity, as well as a Preliminary Economic Assessment covering a new Phase 3 expansion to 10.7 Mtpa of processing capacity. The excellent results from both studies reinforce the multi-generational Platreef Mine's industry-leading margins.

The Platreef Mine is projected to be the lowest-cost primary platinum-group-metals producer globally. The Phase 2 life-of-mine total cash cost is estimated to be $599 per ounce of platinum, palladium, rhodium, and gold (3PE+Au), net of nickel and copper by-product credits. Life-of-mine total cash costs are projected to fall further to $511 per ounce of 3PE+Au following the Phase 3 expansion. This compares very favourably with a basket spot price of approximately $1,900 per ounce. of 3PE+Au, as at October 24, 2025. The Platreef Mine's low cash costs are primarily due to its unique thick orebody, which enables economies of scale, as well as the high grades of nickel and copper that are payable by-products.

Annualized production increases almost fivefold following the Phase 2 expansion to over 460,000 ounces of 3PE+Au, plus approximately 9,000 tonnes of nickel and 6,000 tonnes of copper. The Phase 3 expansion further doubles annualized production to over 1 million ounces of 3PE+Au, plus approximately 22,000 tonnes of nickel and 13,000 tonnes of copper. The Phase 3 expansion, as shown in Figure 1, is expected to rank the Platreef Mine as one of the world's largest primary platinum group metal producers on a platinum-equivalent basis.





Figure 1: Phased development schematic of the Platreef Mine, showing the annualized mining rate over the life of mine.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/3396/275179_bb885ba86460da7c_006full.jpg

Significant increase in platinum and palladium prices boosts project value by over 50%

The year-to-date increases in the spot prices for platinum and palladium are approximately 78% and 60%, respectively. In reference to the sensitivity tables included in the 2025 Platreef Integrated Development Plan, which was filed on March 31, 2025, the net present value (NPV8%) of the Feasibility Study at current spot prices would be 52% higher, or $2.1 billion. The NPV8% of the Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA), which includes the Phase 3 expansion, would also increase at current spot prices by 44% to $4.6 billion. This is based on platinum and palladium price assumptions of $1,550 and $1,450 per ounce, respectively, and excludes any changes in nickel, copper, gold, or rhodium prices.





Installation of a new underground crushing plant is advancing well. The new crusher is part of the Shaft #3 underground infrastructure that enables ore and waste to be crushed prior to it being hoisted to surface, reducing surface noise.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

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About Ivanhoe Mines

Ivanhoe Mines is a Canadian mining company focused on advancing its three principal operations in Southern Africa; the Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex in the DRC, the ultra-high-grade Kipushi zinc-copper-germanium-silver mine, also in the DRC; and the tier-one Platreef platinum-palladium-nickel-rhodium-gold-copper mine in South Africa.

Ivanhoe Mines is exploring for copper in its highly prospective, 54-100% owned exploration licences in the Western Forelands, covering an area over six times larger than the adjacent Kamoa-Kakula Copper Complex, including the high-grade discoveries in the Makoko District. Ivanhoe is also exploring for new sedimentary copper discoveries in new horizons, including Angola, Kazakhstan, and Zambia.

Disclosure Of Technical Information

Disclosures of a scientific or technical nature at the Platreef Mine in this press release have been reviewed and approved by Steve Amos, who is considered, by virtue of his education, experience, and professional association, a Qualified Person under the terms of NI 43-101. Mr. Amos is not considered independent under NI 43-101 as he is Ivanhoe Mines' Executive Vice President, Projects. Mr. Amos has verified the technical data disclosed in this press release.

Ivanhoe has prepared an independent, NI 43-101-compliant technical report for the Platreef Mine, which is available on the company's website and under the company's SEDAR+ profile at www.sedarplus.ca

The Platreef Integrated Development Plan 2025, filed on March 31, 2025, prepared by OreWin Pty Ltd., Mine Technical Services, SRK Consulting Inc., DRA Projects (Pty) Ltd, and Golder Associates Africa.

This technical report includes relevant information regarding the effective dates and the assumptions, parameters, and methods of the mineral resource estimates on the Platreef Mine, cited in this press release, as well as information regarding data verification, exploration procedures, and other matters relevant to the scientific and technical disclosure contained in this press release in respect of the Platreef Mine.

Forward-looking statements

Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable securities laws. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties, and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the company, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified using words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events, or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect the company's current expectations regarding future events, performance, and results and speak only as of the date of this release.

Such statements include, without limitation: (i) statements that the development ore stockpiles at Platreef will feed the 0.8 Mtpa Phase 1 concentrator during the initial stages of ramp-up; (ii) statements that long hole stoping (production mining) is expected to commence in early Q2 2026, once Shaft #3 is commissioned and is ready to hoist in March 2026; (iii) statements that Ivanplats' project team have commenced work on Phase 2 development, with the concentrator expansion targeted for completion in Q4 2027; (iv) statements that expansion of the shaft to a diameter of 10 metres will commence in Q1 2026; (v) statements that negotiations are advancing well for a $700 million Phase 2 senior project finance facility and that Ivanhoe is anticipating that the new financing will be in place during Q1 2026; (vi) statements that financing for the future Phase 3 expansion is expected to be underpinned by cash flow generated from Platreef's Phase 1 and 2 operations; (vii) statements that following the Phase 3 expansion, the Platreef Mine is expected to be one of the world's largest primary platinum group metal producers on a platinum-equivalent basis.

Also, all of the results of the 4.1 Mtpa FS, the 10.7 Mtpa PEA, and the Platreef 2022 feasibility study constitute forward-looking statements or information and include future estimates of internal rates of return, net present value, future production, estimates of cash cost, proposed mining plans and methods, mine life estimates, cash flow forecasts, metal recoveries, estimates of capital and operating costs and the size and timing of phased development of the projects.

Furthermore, concerning this specific forward-looking information concerning the operation and development of the Platreef Project, the company has based its assumptions and analysis on certain factors that are inherently uncertain. Uncertainties include: (i) the adequacy of infrastructure; (ii) geological characteristics; (iii) metallurgical characteristics of the mineralization; (iv) the ability to develop adequate processing capacity; (v) the price of copper, nickel, zinc, platinum, palladium, rhodium and gold; (vi) the availability of equipment and facilities necessary to complete development and exploration; (vii) the cost of consumables and mining and processing equipment; (viii) unforeseen technological and engineering problems; (ix) accidents or acts of sabotage or terrorism; (x) currency fluctuations; (xi) changes in regulations; (xii) the compliance by joint venture partners with terms of agreements; (xiii) the availability and productivity of skilled labour; (xiv) the regulation of the mining industry by various governmental agencies; (xv) the ability to raise sufficient capital to develop such projects; (xvi) changes in project scope or design; (xvii) recoveries, mining rates and grade; (xviii) political factors; (xviii) water inflow into the mine and its potential effect on mining operations; and (xix) the consistency and availability of electric power.

Forward-looking statements and information involve significant risks and uncertainties, should not be read as guarantees of future performance or results, and will not necessarily be accurate indicators of whether such results will be achieved. Many factors could cause actual results to differ materially from the results discussed in the forward-looking statements or information, including, however not limited to, the factors discussed above and under the "Risk Factors" heading in the company's MD&A for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025, in the company's current annual information form, and elsewhere in this release, as well as unexpected changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with the company to perform as agreed; social or labour unrest; changes in commodity prices; and the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations.

Although the forward-looking statements contained in this release are based upon what management of the company believes are reasonable assumptions, the company cannot assure investors that actual results will be consistent with these forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are made as of the date of this release and are expressly qualified in their entirety by this cautionary statement. Subject to applicable securities laws, the company does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this release.

The company's actual results could differ materially from those anticipated in these forward-looking statements as a result of the factors outlined in the "Risk Factors" section in the company's MD&A for the three and nine months ended September 30, 2025, and its current annual information form.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275179

SOURCE: Ivanhoe Mines Ltd.
Portland firm strengthens leadership with diverse talents in interiors, sustainable design, and construction

PORTLAND, ME / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Whitten Architects, an award-winning residential architectural firm celebrating nearly 40 years in Maine, announces the promotion of three team members to Associate, further strengthening its leadership and design capabilities. Adam Darter, Ian Parlin, and Jesse Patkus join the leadership team, bringing diverse expertise in interior design, sustainable building science, and hands-on construction experience.

Adam Darter, a registered architect and LEED AP, brings extensive experience from New York firms including Andre Kikoski Architect and Wimberly Interiors, where he focused on private residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. His Bachelor of Architecture from Roger Williams University and years specializing in interior design inform his comprehensive approach at Whitten, where he explores seamless connections between interior spaces and surrounding environments.

"Since moving to Maine from New York City, Adam has fully embraced our 'Live With Nature' approach to designing homes while bringing valuable expertise in interior and hospitality design that strengthens our entire team. His natural curiosity and problem-solving mindset make him a trusted mentor who helps colleagues gather the best ideas and grow in their craft," said principal Russ Tyson.

Ian Parlin, who holds degrees in Fine Arts and Architecture from Rhode Island School of Design, spent five years in Edinburgh, Scotland, working on restoration and adaptive reuse of historic buildings. His Maine roots and international experience have shaped his dedication to creating energy-efficient, sustainable designs that are sensitive to their sites.

"Driven by his love for the outdoors, Ian generously shares his expertise in building science and sustainable design. He's always willing to mentor, and his collaborative spirit contributes to an environment where everyone in our studio feels supported and empowered to do their best work," said Tyson.

Jesse Patkus, a University of Maine at Augusta architecture graduate and Whitten team member since 2018, brings unique perspective from his three years working for a builder, managing residential construction projects. His hands-on experience with site conditions, material selection, and execution informs his design approach and ability to choreograph the relationship between architecture and landscape.

"Jesse brings an infectious passion for design and the same craftsmanship mindset he learned watching his father build beautiful instruments to how he approaches our architectural drawings, ensuring our documentation is as carefully crafted as the buildings themselves. His practical understanding from working in construction helps our team create drawings that clearly communicate design intent, which is why contractors consistently want to collaborate with us and why Jesse strengthens every project he touches," said Tyson.

"Whitten Architects has a great studio culture, and as an associate, it's an opportunity to continue fostering it, push design, and support the people in our office through all phases of the process," said Patkus.

The Associate positions formally recognize these team members' leadership roles within the firm, expanding their responsibilities to include greater mentorship opportunities and broader contribution across projects and business operations. The promotions reflect Whitten's commitment to growing talent from within and recognizing employees who share the firm's values around meaningful design.

"By recognizing people with diverse backgrounds and capitalizing on the individual strengths that each associate brings, we put ourselves in a better position to meet a wider variety of project needs in a constantly evolving profession," Parlin noted.

For nearly 40 years, Whitten Architects has been designing thoughtfully considered homes in New England that allow clients to live with nature. With a focus exclusively on residential design, the firm has designed a range of project types from camps to cottages, modern homes to historic renovations. The Portland-based firm has won numerous awards and has been nationally published in a variety of residential design books and magazines.

SOURCE: Whitten Architects

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/whitten-architects-elevates-three-to-associate-deepening-design-1104286
Louisiana firm places in the top 15 for the second consecutive year, highlighting steady, values-driven growth.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer, a Louisiana personal injury law firm, has been named to the 2025 LSU100: Fastest Growing Tiger Businesses list for the second year in a row. The firm ranked No. 9 last year and No. 11 this year, reflecting consistent, sustainable growth. The LSU100 program recognizes the 100 fastest-growing Tiger-owned or Tiger-led businesses worldwide.

Loyd J Bourgeois LSU100

Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer team celebrates a second year in the top 15 of the LSU100

Recognition for Sustained Growth

The LSU100 honor is based on independently verified compounded annual growth rates calculated by EisnerAmper, the program's official accounting partner. Earning a spot for two consecutive years underscores the firm's long-term trajectory rather than a single milestone or one-time revenue event.

A Firm Built for Balance and Long-Term Impact

New Orleans car accident lawyer Loyd Bourgeois established the practice with an intentional focus on family balance and community involvement, keeping the firm small in its early years while raising his three children. As his family grew, he gradually shifted more energy toward expanding the practice, building on the foundation laid during those earlier years.

"This recognition means a great deal because it reflects steady, intentional work by a team that truly cares," said Loyd Bourgeois, founder of Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer. "We built a firm rooted in balance, integrity, and service. Seeing that approach translate into sustained growth, and being honored by LSU again, reminds me how far we've come and why we do this work."

Honoring LSU's Tradition of Entrepreneurship

The LSU100 and ROARING20 programs highlight the impact of LSU graduates on local, regional, and national economies. By connecting honorees with students and faculty, LSU supports a lasting legacy of entrepreneurship and professional integrity. Participating companies must meet strict criteria for revenue, tenure, leadership, and values.

LSU100 Program Overview

The LSU100 recognizes:

The 100 fastest-growing Tiger-owned or Tiger-led businesses worldwide.

Companies in operation for at least five years with verified annual revenue of $100,000 or more for each of the last three years.

Organizations that demonstrate integrity, responsibility, respect, and positive community impact.

Company rankings are announced annually at the LSU100 and ROARING20 Celebration Event in Baton Rouge.

About Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer

Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer is a Louisiana personal injury law firm focused on helping clients navigate auto accidents, liability claims, and serious injury matters with clarity and compassion. Founded by LSU graduate Loyd Bourgeois, the firm serves clients across the region with an emphasis on integrity, service, and steady advocacy.

Contact Information

Loyd Bourgeois

Personal Injury Lawyer & Founder

info@ljblegal.com

504-372-1444





SOURCE: Loyd J Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/loyd-j-bourgeois-injury-and-accident-lawyer-earns-back-to-back-l-1104287
New capabilities in ROLLER iQ and the 2026 Attractions Industry Benchmark Report provide operators with richer benchmarking data than ever seen before in the industry.

AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ROLLER , the all-in-one venue management platform for the leisure and attractions industry, has deepened its commitment to industry intelligence with two major benchmarking announcements made at IAAPA Expo 2025. The company released its 2026 Attractions Industry Benchmark Report, offering valuable insights to operators everywhere. And in an industry first, ROLLER has also incorporated benchmarking data into its AI assistant, ROLLER iQ. This provides ROLLER customers with instant, in-platform comparisons against industry benchmarks, enabling them to see how their venue performance aligns with competitors and peers in real-time.

"Operators tell us they want clarity and confidence around how they're performing," said Luke Finn, Co-founder and CEO of ROLLER. "With our 2026 Attractions Industry Benchmark Report, we're giving the entire attractions community access to valuable industry intelligence. And for operators using ROLLER iQ, we're taking it further by delivering personalized, real-time benchmarks inside the platform so they can instantly see how their venue is tracking and get clear, data-driven actions to improve."

The new benchmarking capability within ROLLER iQ gives operators immediate visibility into how their venue's performance compares to industry averages, all without leaving the platform. Powered by anonymized, aggregated data from across the ROLLER ecosystem, it provides powerful benchmarks on key metrics, enabling operators to see how they're faring in areas such as online booking conversions, return visitation, and spend per head.

"We've taken benchmarking out of static reports and into the operator's hands," Finn said. "ROLLER iQ now delivers intelligence that's alive, accessible, and directly tied to everyday performance."

Complementing ROLLER iQ's powerful new functionality, the 2026 Attractions Industry Benchmark Report is available to anyone who registers for a copy. Created from hundreds of thousands of data points, the insightful report highlights several trends that define the modern guest experience. Key findings in this edition include:

Online checkouts generate higher spend: Online bookings drive 45% of revenue, despite representing just 33% of total bookings.

Online bookings drive 45% of revenue, despite representing just 33% of total bookings. Memberships increase loyalty and repeat visits: Members visit nearly 5x more often (4.9 visits per year) than non-members (1.3 visits).

Members visit nearly 5x more often (4.9 visits per year) than non-members (1.3 visits). Mobile ordering results in larger order values: Mobile food and beverage orders are 3.3x higher than traditional point-of-sale transactions.

Mobile food and beverage orders are 3.3x higher than traditional point-of-sale transactions. Digital payments yield higher transaction values: Digital wallets, such as Google Pay and Apple Pay, account for 23.8% of online transactions, with values 1.96x larger on average than those of physical cards.

By bringing together in-platform benchmarking and comprehensive industry reporting, ROLLER continues to lead the evolution of intelligence in the attractions industry. These initiatives reinforce the company's mission to make data accessible, actionable, and truly transformative for operators worldwide.

"The attractions industry is evolving fast, and intelligence is what will define the next era of growth," said Finn. "Our goal is to support the community through that shift, giving every operator, no matter their size, access to insights that help them reach their full potential," said Finn.

The 2026 Attractions Industry Benchmark Report is available now. Access the full report here to explore the data, infographics, and strategies in detail.

About ROLLER

ROLLER is the cloud-based venue management platform for modern attractions, purpose-built to remove friction from the guest experience at every touchpoint. The company's all-in-one platform simplifies its customers' business processes, improving efficiency and maximizing revenue. ROLLER's comprehensive solution includes: Online Checkout & Ticketing, Point-of-Sale, Integrated Payments, Memberships, Gift Cards, Waivers, Self-Serve Kiosks, Cashless Wallets, Guest Surveys, and more. To learn more, visit roller.software .

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Villepinte, November 19, 2025

DRONE VOLT, a manufacturer of professional civilian drones and an expert in embedded solutions, a French expert in embedded artificial intelligence and a manufacturer of professional drones, announces the signing of a strategic memorandum of understanding and partnership agreement with UMag Solutions, the world leader in airborne magnetic detection technologies.

This major agreement makes DRONE VOLT a platform for the integration of V2Mag and V2Mag-MIL, the most advanced magnetic detection sensors on the market developed by UMag Solutions.

It gives DRONE VOLT access to global markets in the defense, security, offshore energy, critical infrastructure, and industrial applications sectors.

Recently, DRONE VOLT successfully carried out new missions to detect mines and unexploded ordnance using the V2Mag-MIL, demonstrating the Group's ability to conduct humanitarian and security demining operations in post-conflict environments.

A transformative strategic partnership that is a powerful growth accelerator for DRONE VOLT

The partnership agreement includes:

Distribution rights for DRONE VOLT technologies in several geostrategic regions with high added value: the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia-Pacific ;

in several geostrategic regions with high added value: ; Full integration of V2Mag on DRONE VOLT platforms, including the HERCULES 20 drone ;

; Presentations official presentations made at armed, to government agencies, and leaders in the industrial and energy sectors;

at armed, to government agencies, and leaders in the industrial and energy sectors; The development of integrated turnkey solutions based on drones: drones + magnetic sensors + mission software + training + operational support.

A direct response to global geopolitical needs

The solution resulting from the partnership between DRONE VOLT and UMag Solution can detect:

Anchored or underwater mines / UXO, whether buried or not (anti-tank / anti-personnel);

Buried UXO;

Port threats;

Buried metal objects;

Submerged metal pollutants.

1 See press release dated October 21, 2025.

The solution is operational in a variety of environments (open sea, ports, coasts, beaches, deserts, and complex terrain) with proven resistance to waves, currents, and magnetic interference.

V2Mag is the new global benchmark in airborne magnetic detection. The V2Mag sets multiple international performance records and stands out for the following features:

Lowest noise level in the world;

Detection 3 times deeper than competing solutions;

than competing solutions; Real-time analysis - no post-processing required ;

; 100% non-invasive technology ;

; Data immediately usable.

V2Mag is thus becoming the global standard in magnetic detection by drone.

V2Mag-MIL offers military-grade accuracy, already validated by NATO

The reinforced military version offers unmatched reliability and is an essential capability for modern defense operations:

Resilient GNSS;

Centimeter-level accuracy ;

; Fully integrated with UMagMission-MIL software ;

; Compliant with NATO STANAG 4817 standard.

The HERCULES 20 drone will be equipped with the best magnetic detection technologies CE C5 certified and designed for demanding missions, HERCULES has been integrated by UMag Solutions as a platform for V2Mag and V2Mag-MIL.

For reference, here are the main features of the HERCULES 20:

CE Class C5 certified (compliance with specific European standards);

(compliance with specific European standards); Payload capacity of 15 kg;

Full redundancy system ;

; 4 flight batteries;

8 motors + 8 propellers;

Exceptional stability , even in difficult weather conditions;

, even in difficult weather conditions; Modular architecture for tactical payloads, special sensors, winches, CBRN tools;

HERCULES 20 has already been adopted by the armed forces and industry

HERCULES 20 is already operational in several military units for:

Perimeter security and surveillance;

Tactical lifting;

CBRN missions;

Inspection of critical assets;

Magnetic detection (V2Mag);

Special payload integration.

Civilian applications with strong multi-year growth dynamics

The DRONE VOLT & UMag alliance targets fast-growing civilian markets:

Offshore wind energy: inspection prior to installation;

Detection of unexploded ordnance in cable/pipeline corridors;

Coastal and underwater mapping;

Port security and emergency response.

It is supported by strong and sustainable trends in markets that are expected to expand over the next decade:

Global energy transition;

Massive expansion of underwater infrastructure;

Strengthening of regulations on explosion risks.

A non-invasive technology that is faster, safer, and more efficient.

UMag's airborne magnetic s y s t e m s inspect large and complex areas, offering considerable advantages. They are faster than conventional methods, with significantly reduced operating costs and no human or environmental risks.

This represents a major technological breakthrough compared to traditional methods of mine detection and survey.

Statements from executives

"The integration of V2Mag into our platforms, presented at the MILIPOL trade show from November 18 to 21, 2025, strengthens our technological lead and opens the door to high-potential civilian and military markets."

Marc Courcelle, CEO of DRONE VOLT

UMag Solutions

"The V2Mag offers results that are unmatched anywhere in the world. This partnership with DRONE VOLT strengthens our position in the European markets for unexploded ordnance and mine detection for commercial and defense applications."

Arne Dssing Andreasen, CEO of UMag Solutions

Next release: Annual revenue for 2025, January 2026.

All DRONE VOLT press releases are available at www.dronevolt.com / Investors

To receive all press releases free of charge, register at Actusnews To receive the company's newsletter, write to: finance@dronevolt.com

About DRONE VOLT

Founded in 2011, DRONE VOLT is an aircraft manufacturer specializing in professional civilian drones and artificial intelligence. DRONE VOLT has operations in France, Benelux, Canada, Denmark, the Netherlands, the United States, and Switzerland. As a global partner, DRONE VOLT offers its customers turnkey business solutions including various services and drone pilot training.

The DRONE VOLT Group, a member of GICAT, achieved a turnover of 32.7 million in 2024, representing annual growth of 36%. annual growth of 36%.

DRONE VOLT supplies government agencies and industrial companies such as the French Army, the Ministry of the Armed Forces, Engie, Total, Bouygues ES, ADP, the Air Transport Gendarmerie (GTA), international government agencies, and others. DRONE VOLT is certified as an "Innovative Company" by Bpifrance.

DRONE VOLT is listed on the Euronext Growth market in Paris:

Share: Ticker: ALDRV - ISIN code: FR001400SVN0 - Eligible: PEA, PEA-PME Subscription warrant: Ticker: BNBS - ISIN code: FR0014007951

For more information, visit www.dronevolt.com

Contacts:

Investor Relations DRONE VOLT

Sylvain Navarro - T: +33 7 88 87 50 88 finance@dronevolt.com

Media relations FINANCE ACTUS finance & communication

Manon Clairet - T: +33 1 53 67 36 73 dronevolt@actus.fr

Media relations GENERAL PUBLIC AND PROFESSIONALS AYA communication Antonin Violette - T: +33 6 47 48 63 25 aviolette@aya-communication.fr

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WASHINGTON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Standing Committee of CITES, an international body responsible for monitoring trade in animal species, announced the results of its review of animal breeding practices in Cambodia, thanking Cambodia for providing extensive data and relying on science. The report, released on Nov. 12, 2025 in advance of an upcoming Standing Committee meeting, is available at https://cites.org/eng/sc/79/agenda-documents.

Among other positive findings, the report states that Cambodia has customs and inspection procedures in place that are "well-coordinated and integrated through the national single window system, with inspections and documentation supporting transparency." The report goes on to commend Cambodia, recognizing "Cambodia's openness and cooperation" throughout the review process and acknowledging "the country's commitment to improving its legislative framework, enhancing traceability, and aligning with CITES procedures."

Long-tailed macaques are integral to biomedical research globally due to their close biological similarity to humans. Long-tailed macaques are the most commonly studied nonhuman primate species for drug safety assessment. Research with long-tailed macaques has been crucial for advances in regenerative medicine, immunology, cancer, vaccine development and pharmacology.

Cambodia was historically a major supplier of animal research models to the United States; however, allegations of illegal activity by special interest groups in the U.S. served to reduce imports from Cambodia. The unavailability of research models has put U.S. medical research at risk and has impacted the ability of U.S. researchers to develop new treatments.

"NABR welcomes the latest report from CITES finding that Cambodia is in compliance with international laws and requirements," NABR President Matthew R. Bailey said. "This report affirms Cambodia's compliance and demonstrates that animal research models desperately needed in the United States may be obtained from this country."

"NABR thanks Cambodia for its openness and cooperation throughout this process and stands ready to work with United States and other countries on these matters," Bailey added.

About the National Association for Biomedical Research

Founded in 1979, NABR is the only 501(c)(6) nonprofit association dedicated to sound public policy for the humane use of animals in biomedical research, education, and testing. Members include more than 340 universities, medical and veterinary schools, teaching hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, patient groups, and academic and professional societies who rely on humane and responsible animal research to advance global human and animal health. Learn more about us at https://www.nabr.org/.

Contact: Eva Maciejewski

emaciejewski@nabr.org

(202) 967-8305

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BH Macro Limited - Transaction in Own Shares

PR Newswire

LONDON, United Kingdom, November 19

BH Macro Limited (the "Company")

(a closed-ended collective investment scheme established as a company with limited liability under the laws of Guernsey with registered number 46235)

Transaction in Own Shares

19 November 2025

BH Macro Limited (the Company) announces today it has purchased the following number of its ordinary shares on the London Stock Exchange from J.P. Morgan Securities plc:

Ordinary Shares: - Share Class Sterling Date of purchase: 19 November 2025 Number of ordinary shares purchased: 26,498 Weighted average price (Sterling/US Dollars as applicable): 3.9800

The Company intends to hold the purchased shares in treasury.

Following the above share transactions of the relevant US Dollar and/or Sterling Shares, the total number of shares in issue in each share class of the Company will be as follows:

Ordinary Shares in issue (excluding Treasury) Ordinary Shares held in Treasury 320,564,083 Sterling Shares 57,493,523 Sterling Shares 23,910,329 US Dollar Shares 202,428 US Dollar Shares

From 19 November 2025, the total number of voting rights in the Company (rounded up to the whole number) is 489,735,962.

Enquiries:

Company website: www.bhmacro.com

William Simmonds

JPMorgan Cazenove

Tel: 020 7588 2828

The Company Secretary

Northern Trust International Fund Administration Services (Guernsey) Limited

Tel: 01481 745001
Expansion represents significant investment in North Carolina and is expected to create 700 new jobs in the state by end of 2030





Enables manufacturing of medicines across company's main therapeutic areas in one geographic location





Marks latest milestone in company's previously announced $23 billion investment in US infrastructure

Basel, November 19, 2025 - Novartis, a leading global innovative medicines company, today announced plans to expand its operations in North Carolina, creating a new flagship manufacturing hub with end-to-end manufacturing capabilities. The strategic investment is a major step to ensure all key Novartis medicines for US patients are manufactured in the US and delivered to patients across the country at scale.



This announcement is part of Novartis' $23 billion investment in US-based infrastructure (https://www.novartis.com/us-en/about/investing-americas-health) over the next five years, designed to increase manufacturing capacity and enable 100% of the company's key medicines to be produced end-to-end in the US.



As part of this flagship hub in North Carolina, Novartis will:

Build a new site in Durham with the construction of two new facilities dedicated to manufacturing biologics and sterile packaging

Build a new site in Morrisville with one facility for the production of solid dosage tablets and capsules, including packaging

Expand the scope of its existing Durham facility with the added capability to support sterile filling of biologics into syringes and vials

The company is on track to produce all its advanced technologies in the US with:

Cell and gene therapies manufactured in Morris Plains, NJ, and Durham, NC

Radioligand therapies manufactured coast-to-coast at facilities in Millburn, NJ, Indianapolis, IN, and Carlsbad, CA, and two new sites planned in Florida and Texas

xRNA therapies to be manufactured at a new facility whose location will be announced in the coming months

Currently, Novartis produces innovative, life-changing gene therapies in Durham. Together, the new and existing facilities will create a single hub, expanding capabilities to produce medicines across the company's main therapeutic areas: oncology, immunology, neuroscience, and cardiovascular, renal and metabolic. The proximity of the facilities will allow teams and production processes to work in tandem - from manufacturing active ingredients to final packaging - and create efficiencies in its manufacturing.



"This announcement is a commitment to American innovation and to the patients we serve," said Vas Narasimhan, CEO of Novartis. "By building a full, end-to-end manufacturing presence in North Carolina for our broader portfolio, we are expanding our capacity to deliver medical breakthroughs, securing a more resilient US supply chain, and investing in the local communities that make our mission possible.""North Carolina continues to lead in advanced pharmaceutical manufacturing, and Novartis' expansion in the Triangle reflects our state's talent and innovative spirit," said Governor Josh Stein. "This investment will strengthen our state's economy and ensure life-saving medicines continue to be made right in North Carolina."Anticipated to open in 2027-2028, the flagship manufacturing hub, encompassing more than 700,000 square feet between the existing campus and new facilities, is expected to create 700 new jobs at Novartis and more than 3,000 indirect jobs across the supply chain by the end of 2030.This latest expansion builds on the existing Novartis presence - creating skilled jobs, fueling workforce growth, supporting local communities, and solidifying North Carolina's strength in pharmaceutical manufacturing.This press release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the United States Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by words such as "potential," "can," "will," "plan," "may," "could," "would," "expect," "anticipate," "look forward," "believe," "committed," "investigational," "pipeline," "launch," or similar terms, or by express or implied discussions regarding potential marketing approvals, new indications or labeling for the investigational or approved products described in this press release, or regarding potential future revenues from such products. You should not place undue reliance on these statements. Such forward-looking statements are based on our current beliefs and expectations regarding future events, and are subject to significant known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should underlying assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary materially from those set forth in the forward-looking statements. There can be no guarantee that the investigational or approved products described in this press release will be submitted or approved for sale or for any additional indications or labeling in any market, or at any particular time. Nor can there be any guarantee that such products will be commercially successful in the future. In particular, our expectations regarding such products could be affected by, among other things, the uncertainties inherent in research and development, including clinical trial results and additional analysis of existing clinical data; regulatory actions or delays or government regulation generally; global trends toward health care cost containment, including government, payor and general public pricing and reimbursement pressures and requirements for increased pricing transparency; our ability to obtain or maintain proprietary intellectual property protection; the particular prescribing preferences of physicians and patients; general political, economic and business conditions, including the effects of and efforts to mitigate pandemic diseases; safety, quality, data integrity or manufacturing issues; potential or actual data security and data privacy breaches, or disruptions of our information technology systems, and other risks and factors referred to in Novartis AG's current Form 20-F on file with the US Securities and Exchange Commission. Novartis is providing the information in this press release as of this date and does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statements contained in this press release as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.Novartis is an innovative medicines company. Every day, we work to reimagine medicine to improve and extend people's lives so that patients, healthcare professionals and societies are empowered in the face of serious disease. Our medicines reach nearly 300 million people worldwide.Reimagine medicine with us: Visit us at(https://www.novartis.com/) and connect with us on(https://www.linkedin.com/company/novartis/),(https://www.facebook.com/novartis/),(https://twitter.com/Novartis) and(https://instagram.com/novartis?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==__;!!N3hqHg43uw!pjp8z253J5NjaOYrW65UbAAlHeHRdQ-w0m4ezZxEQEl0ptafXN2M99VRIk39pf49PAc8NbK93Pxp3uaSBQkAf8oEnzWXG8Sk$).

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Historic $30 million gift energizes the One Lovett Campaign to advance student, faculty, and campus priorities, laying the foundation for the school's next century.

ATLANTA, GA / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / The Lovett School today announced a record-breaking $30 million commitment from the Rollins family, the largest single donation in the school's 99-year history. This transformational commitment, among the largest single gifts to an independent school in the country, bolsters the One Lovett Campaign, strengthening priority investments in faculty support, student opportunities, and financial aid, as well as future-facing campus development.

Rollins Hall_Lovett

(from L to R): Pam Rollins '75, Tim Rollins '81, Amy Rollins Kreisler '88, Meredyth Cole, Head of School, John O. Knox Jr. '88, Co-Chair One Lovett Campaign Committee, Eileen Keough Millard '80, Co-Chair One Lovett Campaign Committee

The gift honors Rita Anne Rollins '72, the oldest child of Randall and Peggy Rollins, who tragically passed away in 1970. The gift will support the construction of Rita Anne Rollins Hall, which will bring together makerspaces, media studios, a new chapel, performing arts venues, a dining commons, a learning commons, and an expansive campus green. This iconic building will serve as Lovett's heart of campus, where students design, create, worship, perform, and gather.

The anticipated groundbreaking for the flagship campus hub is Summer 2026, with the intention of opening by Fall 2028 as part of the school's long-term campus master plan. With Lovett's centennial on the horizon, the new hub will be a tangible legacy of the Rollins family's commitment, benefiting generations of Lovett Lions to come.

"On behalf of the entire Lovett community, I want to thank Amy Rollins Kreisler '88, Pam Rollins '75, and Tim Rollins '81 for their investment in the future of Lovett," said Meredyth Cole, Head of School at The Lovett School. "This is a truly historic moment for our school. As we approach our 100th anniversary, the extraordinary generosity allows us to dream bigger for our students and faculty. Their gift not only supports a new heart of campus that will strengthen the bonds of our Lovett community, but it also lays the foundation for Lovett's next century of excellence, ensuring our school will continue to thrive and serve students for generations."

"Our family has a long, mult-generational history with The Lovett School, with several generations attending the school," said Amy Rollins Kreisler. "We are excited to be part of such a transformational change for the campus and the student experience."

The record-breaking donation was announced in a ceremony in the Hendrix-Chenault Theatre on The Lovett School campus with members of the Lovett faculty, staff, Board of Trustees, and the Rollins family in attendance. For photos and video from the event, as well as the latest renderings of Rita Anne Rollins Hall, please click here.

John O. Knox Jr. '88 and Eileen Keough Millard '80, co-chairs of the One Lovett Campaign committee, also lauded the significance of the Rollins family's support. "Words cannot begin to express our deep appreciation to the Rollins family for their generational gift to The Lovett School. Their extraordinary generosity will enable Lovett to build a new center of campus that will not only welcome our guests but also support vital student activities. The Lovett School has benefited from the Rollins family's unwavering support for generations, and how fitting it is that the new heart of our campus will be named for their beloved sibling, the late Rita Anne Rollins. On behalf of the campaign committee and the entire Lovett community, we are deeply grateful for their generous benefaction," the campaign co-chairs said in a joint statement.

This landmark contribution is the lead gift of the One Lovett Campaign, an initiative that will strengthen key priorities across the school. The campaign's efforts align with Lovett's mission of educating the whole child and will push the school boldly into its second century.

For more information on the One Lovett Campaign, please visit OneLovett.org.

About The Lovett School

The Lovett School is a community of belonging that develops students of honor, faith, and wisdom, equipping them with the character and intellect to thrive in learning and life. Founded in 1926 by pioneering educator Eva Edwards Lovett, The Lovett School has grown into a leading independent, coeducational K-12 day school in Atlanta, Georgia. As the school approaches its centennial, it remains guided by its founding vision of educating the whole child, an approach that balances intellectual rigor with character development and joyful learning. Lovett's core values of intellect, purpose, belonging, faith, and love foster a nurturing community where each student is known and valued.

Lovett's holistic educational philosophy comes to life through its core values of intellect, purpose, belonging, faith, and love. By engaging in hands-on, real-world learning experiences, Lovett students find joy in discovery while developing critical thinking skills, empathy, and a sense of purpose. These integrated experiences in the classroom and beyond deepen their cognitive, emotional, and social growth, sparking the development of individual passions and a lifelong enthusiasm for learning.

For nearly 100 years, Lovett's enduring impact has been reflected in generations of alumni who lead with integrity and purpose. The school remains steadfast in its commitment to prepare students for meaningful lives and leadership beyond the classroom, equipping them to thrive in college and to serve as responsible, engaged citizens in their communities.

The Lovett School Media Contact:

Randy Lieberman, Senior Director of Communications

communications@lovett.org

SOURCE: The Lovett School

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/education/the-lovett-school-announces-largest-gift-in-school-history-from-the-rollins-family-1103854
WESTPORT, Ireland, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Portwest, a global leader in workwear, safety footwear, and personal protective equipment (PPE), has acquired a majority shareholding in Grupo Kondor Colombia S.A.S., the market leader in safety footwear in Colombia.

The acquisition supports Portwest's strategy of expanding its global manufacturing and distribution footprint and strengthening its position in key Latin American markets. The company now employs over 6,400 people worldwide across Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Australasia.

Founded more than 40 years ago, Grupo Kondor is recognised as Colombia's leading brand for high-performance safety footwear. With more than 300 employees, the company designs, manufactures, and distributes protective footwear engineered to meet the demands of multiple industries across the country.

Cathal Hughes, Deputy Managing Director at Portwest, said:

"We are delighted to welcome the Kondor team to the Portwest Group. Acquiring market-leading companies is a key part of our global growth strategy. Kondor represents a strategic addition to our portfolio, expanding our capabilities in safety footwear and providing a strong local presence in Colombia through its established warehouse and distribution network. This acquisition strengthens our position in Latin America and enables us to introduce the Portwest and Base Protection brands more effectively to the region."

The acquisition also opens new opportunities for collaboration between Grupo Kondor and Base Protection, Portwest's premium Italian safety footwear brand. Both companies will share design expertise and innovation in comfort and performance, bringing advanced European safety footwear technology to Latin American markets while leveraging Kondor's local production and distribution strengths.

Juan Carlos Cardona, General Manager and CEO of Grupo Kondor, commented:

"Joining Portwest marks an exciting new chapter for Kondor. With Portwest's global reach and resources, we can accelerate our growth, strengthen our innovation capabilities, and expand our product offering. Together, we will continue delivering high-quality protective solutions while creating new opportunities for our employees and partners."

The investment in Grupo Kondor follows Portwest's previous acquisitions of IFR Workwear (Canada), Base Protection (Italy), and leading Australian workwear companies, reinforcing Portwest's position as one of the world's foremost providers of workwear, safety footwear, and PPE solutions.

For further information, visit www.portwest.com or www.calzadokondor.com.co.

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New partnership adds coatings and finishing insight to MAX 2026, expanding innovation across manufacturing sectors.

BIRMINGHAM, MI / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / BIRMINGHAM, MI / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / The Manufacturing & Automation eXchange (MAX), a premier event bringing together manufacturing leaders, innovators, and solution providers, is expanding its scope with the addition of Paint & Coatings Industry (PCI) magazine as its newest media partner. PCI joins five leading trade publications producing the inaugural event in Nashville, taking place March 25-26, 2026, with an additional day of educational workshops on March 24. The addition of PCI enhances MAX's ability to connect attendees with the latest advancements across the entire manufacturing ecosystem.

With PCI's involvement, the event will now feature expanded opportunities for manufacturers to explore cutting-edge technologies and solutions in coatings, finishing, and surface treatment - critical elements in modern production and automation environments.

"We're thrilled to welcome Paint & Coatings Industry as a MAX partner," said Bill DeYoe, Group Publisher of the Manufacturing Division at BNP Media. "Their expertise in coatings and finishing brings a valuable new dimension to our event, allowing attendees to discover solutions that complete the full manufacturing process."

The addition of PCI reflects MAX's commitment to fostering cross-sector collaboration and innovation. By uniting publications that serve diverse segments of manufacturing, MAX delivers a comprehensive experience for executives seeking to improve efficiency, quality, and sustainability in their operations.

The upcoming Manufacturing & Automation eXchange will take place March 25-26, 2026 at the Music City Center in Nashville, Tennessee, offering a unique environment where manufacturing decision-makers engage directly with technology and solution providers through high-value demonstrations, meetings and networking sessions.

Attendees can register now at theMAXevent.com. Companies that want to join MAX as exhibitors or sponsors can reach the team through the exhibitor inquiry form on the site.

About the Manufacturing & Automation eXchange

The Manufacturing & Automation eXchange (MAX) is an exclusive event connecting manufacturing executives with solution providers in automation, digital transformation, robotics, packaging, adhesives, quality, and now coatings and surface technologies. Produced by leading industry publications, MAX fosters collaboration and innovation to help manufacturers address today's challenges and opportunities.

About Paint & Coatings Industry

Paint & Coatings Industry (PCI) is the leading magazine serving professionals in the global coatings industry. PCI provides news, research, and insights into coatings formulation, production, application, and testing, supporting innovation throughout the coatings supply chain.

For Further Information, Contact:

Amy Riemer, Media Relations Representative

978-502-4895 (cell)

amy@riemercommunications.com

SOURCE: Manufacturing & Automation eXchange

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/industrial-and-manufacturing/the-manufacturing-and-automation-exchange-expands-its-reach-with-the-a-1104020
LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Re:Vision, a nonprofit initiative dedicated to revitalizing communities through locally driven, resilient solutions, in partnership with metahaiku, invites the Los Angeles community of artists, designers, architects, and creatives to FRIENDSGIVING - an evening of art, reflection, and collaboration marking a new phase for Re:Vision's work.

Taking place on November 20, 2025, at So-Too in Los Angeles, Friendsgiving will bring together community leaders, artists, entrepreneurs, and innovators to celebrate the region's creative heritage and harvest season while exploring new opportunities for renewal.

Centered on the theme of "harvest", the gathering explores not only abundance but also the balance and strain that growth demands - from the health of soil and the resilience of farmers to the strength of the communities themselves. Through interactive installations, shared food, and participatory works, guests will be invited to engage as a collective, sparking dialogue and creativity within LA's design and art community.

The evening will feature:

Culinary experience by Chef Catalina Flores (formerly Head Pastry Chef at Sqirl)

Living sculptures and floral installations by Zilah Drahn

Sculpture by Jasmine Archie

Installation art by Sarah Hein

Poetry by Clarke Andros

"Re:Vision is about empowering communities to uncover their own strengths," said Stacey Frost, founder of Re:Vision and host of the event. "Friendsgiving is a chance to celebrate creativity and connection, while also planting the seeds of ideas that can grow into lasting renewal."

Friendsgiving also marks the beginning of Re:Vision's new initiative in North East Pennsylvania, focused on developing a replicable model for small-town revitalization that strengthens local economies, honors cultural heritage, and builds resilience for future generations.

Re:Vision's mission is to inspire change from the inside out, helping communities design their own pathways to growth. By blending creativity, science, and collaboration, the organization transforms challenges into opportunities - building more resilient systems in food, energy, education, and design.

For more information about Friendsgiving or Re:Vision, please visit Revisionne.org or follow us on Instagram: @revision_projects

ABOUT RE:VISION

Re:Vision is a nonprofit organization dedicated to revitalizing communities through innovative, locally driven solutions. By honoring cultural heritage and partnering with community leaders, Re:Vision helps towns uncover their own strengths and transform challenges into opportunities for renewal. Through a holistic approach that integrates design, resilience, and collaboration, Re:Vision works to strengthen local economies, create jobs, and restore social bonds while building resilient systems for food, energy, and education. Founded by Stacey Frost on the belief that lasting change comes from within, Re:Vision is creating a replicable model of community-centered revitalization that supports economic growth and inspires towns across the country and beyond.

MEDIA CONTACTS

meg.stagaard@42west.com

cameron.corcoran@42west.com

SOURCE: RE:VISION

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/stacey-frosts-re-vision-hosts-first-annual-%22friendsgiving-%22-insp-1104563
(2025-11-19) Kitron ASA, through its subsidiary Kitron Holding AB, has entered into an agreement to acquire DeltaNordic AB, a Swedish provider of advanced electronics and electrical systems with a strong foothold in the defence market.

"DeltaNordic has established itself as a reputable supplier of robust electronics and advanced electrical systems for defence and other demanding sectors such as mining, construction, and infrastructure. These markets are expected to drive significant growth, with a three-year outlook exceeding SEK 3.4 billion. Given DeltaNordic's strong growth trajectory, we are confident this transaction will be earnings accretive and create substantial value for Kitron shareholders," says Peter Nilsson, CEO of Kitron.

DeltaNordic serves blue-chip customers in defence, mining, and infrastructure. Revenues are projected at approximately SEK 815 million (approximately EUR 74 million) in 2026. Currently, about half of its revenue comes from defence customers-a share that continues to grow. The company operates two production facilities in Sweden and one in Nanjing, China.

"We look forward to joining the Kitron group. We share Nordic roots, a focus on high-cost-of-failure segments, and a commitment to profitable growth. Together, we can leverage our combined strengths to unlock new opportunities for DeltaNordic," says Rickard Vahlberg, CEO of DeltaNordic.

Transaction Details

Kitron will acquire 100% of DeltaNordic AB shares from Mind Industrial Group AB (majority owner) and JSLS Holding AB (minority owner), both of whom have agreed to the transaction.

The purchase is based on an enterprise value of SEK 1,255 million (EUR 114 million) on a debt- and cash-free basis.

EV/EBITDA multiple of 9.65 based on estimated 2026 EBITDA of SEK 130 million (EUR 12 million).

Settlement will include: Cash: SEK 760 million (EUR 69 million) Kitron shares: SEK 150 million (EUR 14 million) Earn-out payment subject to revenue target: SEK 345 million (EUR 31 million)

Completion is subject to approval from the Swedish Competition Authority and that the Swedish Inspectorate of Strategic Products has cleared or given its approval to the acquisition and is expected in late December 2025 or early January 2026.

Strategic Rationale

Strengthens Kitron's position in the fast-growing Defence & Aerospace sector.

Expands Kitron's footprint in Sweden, a NATO member at the forefront of military technology innovation.

Adds unique expertise in designing and manufacturing electronics and electrical systems for demanding environments, enhancing Kitron's capabilities in design, prototyping, and high-level system production.

Kitron is uniquely positioned to fuel DeltaNordic's growth

Minimal customer overlap creates new growth opportunities for both companies

Expected to be earnings accretive and deliver significant shareholder value.

Financial Outlook

DeltaNordic expects revenue of SEK 770-860 million (EUR 70-78 million) in 2026, supported by a strong order book.

EBITDA is estimated at SEK 120-140 million (EUR 11-13 million) in 2026.

Financing of the acquisition is contemplated by way of available funds and facilities. Kitron may consider existing facilities in combination with other financing alternatives, including new bank facilities, debt, equity or other third party financing, to settle the cash part of the purchase price at closing. There are no financing conditions for the acquisition.





Kitron Outlook

2025 (excluding DeltaNordic): Revenue EUR 700-740 million. EBIT EUR 59-66 million.

2026 (excluding DeltaNordic): Revenue EUR 785-865 million. EBIT EUR 70-84 million.

Advisors

MP Corporate Finance is acting as financial advisor and Advokatfirmaet Selmer as legal advisor to Kitron. In addition, EY has been engaged to carry out financial due diligence, and Bird&Bird has carried out legal due diligence.

Webcast Invitation

Kitron will host an online presentation of the transaction at 10:00 CET tomorrow, 20 November. Access the webcast here: https://channel.royalcast.com/landingpage/hegnarmedia/20251120_5/

To schedule a meeting with Kitron management, please contact Stine Kvamme Greve at Nordea Corporate Access.

For further information, please see attached presentation to this announcement.

For further information, please contact:

Peter Nilsson, President and CEO, tel. +47 948 40 850

Cathrin Nylander, CFO, tel.: +47 900 43 284

Email: investorrelations@kitron.com

About Kitron

Kitron is a leading Scandinavian electronics manufacturing services company for the Connectivity, Electrification, Industry, Medical devices and Defence/Aerospace sectors. The group has operations located in Norway, Sweden, Denmark, Lithuania, Germany, Poland, the Czech Republic, India, Malaysia, China and the United States. Kitron has about 2 400 employees, and revenues were EUR 647 million in 2024.

www.kitron.com

Important Information

This information is considered to be inside information pursuant to the EU Market Abuse Regulation and is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act. This stock exchange announcement was published by Cathrin Nylander, Chief Financial Officer of Kitron ASA on 19 November 2025 at [TIME] CET.

This announcement is not and does not form a part of any offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to purchase, any securities. The distribution of this announcement and other information may be restricted by law in certain jurisdictions. Copies of this announcement are not being made and may not be distributed or sent into any jurisdiction in which such distribution would be unlawful or would require registration or other measures. Persons into whose possession this announcement or such other information should come are required to inform themselves about and to observe any such restrictions.

Matters discussed in this announcement may constitute forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are statements that are not historical facts and may be identified by words such as "believe", "expect", "anticipate", "strategy", "intends", "estimate", "will", "may", "continue", "should" and similar expressions. The forward-looking statements in this release are based upon various assumptions, many of which are based, in turn, upon further assumptions. Although Kitron believes that these assumptions were reasonable when made, these assumptions are inherently subject to significant known and unknown risks, uncertainties, contingencies and other important factors which are difficult or impossible to predict and are beyond its control.

The information, opinions and forward-looking statements contained in this announcement speak only as at its date and are subject to change without notice. Kitron undertakes no obligation to review, update, confirm, or to release publicly any revisions to any forward-looking statements to reflect events that occur or circumstances that arise in relation to the content of this announcement.

This announcement is for information purposes only and is not to be relied upon in substitution for the exercise of independent judgment. It is not intended as investment advice and under no circumstances is it to be used or considered as an offer to sell, or a solicitation of an offer to buy any securities or a recommendation to buy or sell any securities of Kitron. Neither Kitron nor its advisors accept any liability arising from the use of this announcement.

This information is subject to the disclosure requirements pursuant to Section 5-12 the Norwegian Securities Trading Act

Attachment
Attributes 866% Revenue Growth to strategic market execution, breakthrough precision pollination technology, and team-wide commitment to innovation.

FRESNO, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BeeHero today announced it ranked 109 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 31st year. BeeHero grew 866% during this period.

BeeHero's Chief Executive Officer, Omer Davidi, credits the company's 866% revenue growth to GTM discipline, a breakthrough vision for precision pollination, and the deep ownership demonstrated by the team across every function. He said, "The team earned this growth. Their focus, dedication, and willingness to push boundaries brought our vision to life. When that level of execution meets a transformative mission, the results speak for themselves."

"This year's rankings highlight both enduring leadership and breakthrough momentum," said Wolfe Tone, US Deloitte Private & Emerging Client Portfolio leader and partner, Deloitte Tax LLP. "More than half of the winners are prior honorees, yet the majority of the top ten are first-time entrants - demonstrating the staying power of established leaders alongside the accelerating growth of new innovators across key sectors. As in previous years, private companies continue to dominate, underscoring the agility that private enterprises bring to competitive markets, enabling the exceptional triple and quadruple digit growth reflected in these rankings."

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies - both public and private - in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

About BeeHero

BeeHero is a data-driven technology company redefining pollination in commercial agriculture. Using advanced data analytics, AI, and IoT sensors, BeeHero brings transparency and efficiency to commercial crop pollination. Its Precision Pollination as a Service (PPaaS) results in better crop yields and increased profits for commercial crop growers and agribusiness stakeholders. Their precision pollination solution is rapidly evolving into the backbone of the data-driven approach needed to build a resilient and future-proof sustainable agriculture ecosystem. The company is headquartered in Fresno, California, with offices in Palo Alto, California and R&D in Tel Aviv, Israel.

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.

Media Contact:

Meghan Seitz

BeeHero

meghan.seitz@beehero.io

559-215-8956

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View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/beehero-ranked-number-109-fastest-growing-company-in-north-america-on-the-2025-deloitte-technology-fast-500-302620788.html
Chinese cities dominate global science hub rankings

08:12, November 19, 2025 By Chen Meiling ( China Daily

Visitors interact with a robot dog at the 2025 World AI Conference (WAIC) in East China's Shanghai, July 29, 2025. [Photo/Xinhua]

Chinese cities account for more than half of the world's top 10 scientific research hubs, according to the latest Nature Index supplement, with Beijing retaining its position as the leading global science city  a title it has held since 2016.

According to the "Nature Index 2025 Science Cities" supplement, the number of Chinese cities among the global top 10 rose from five in 2023 to six in 2024.

While Beijing tops the chart, Shanghai holds second place. The other Chinese cities on the list are Nanjing (fifth) in Jiangsu province, Guangzhou (sixth) in Guangdong province, Wuhan (eighth) in Hubei province and Hangzhou (10th) in Zhejiang province.

The New York metropolitan area, the Boston metropolitan area, the San Francisco Bay Area and the Baltimore-Washington metropolitan area, which are all in the United States, are also among the global top 10 scientific research hubs.

The supplement, compiled by an organization associated with international publisher Springer Nature, draws on the Nature Index open database, which tracks all contributions made by global research institutions to 145 high-quality natural-science and health-science journals.

Shang Yanran, deputy chief planner at the Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute in Beijing, said the newly released supplement shows that China plays an important role in driving global scientific and technological innovation.

"Innovation is highly concentrated geographically, with North America represented by Silicon Valley, Europe by London, East Asia by Tokyo and Southeast Asia by Singapore. China has diversified the global innovation landscape, forming a structure centered on Beijing, Shanghai and Guangzhou, with other key cities collaborating in innovation," she said.

Chinese cities lead in three of the five major subjects evaluated by the index, namely chemistry, physical sciences, and Earth and environmental sciences. Among these, Chinese cities have, for the first time, swept the top 10 ranks in chemistry, and claimed six spots in each of the other two fields. Beijing ranks first in all three fields.

In biological sciences, Western cities continue to lead, with New York and Boston holding the top two spots, and Beijing making it to third place. In health sciences, US cities account for half of the top 10 positions, while Beijing ranks sixth.

In the overall rankings, Hangzhou, home to tech giants such as Alibaba and DeepSeek, advanced three spots since the 2023 Nature Index supplement was released to make it to the world's top 10 scientific research hubs in 2024.

It has established a long-term sup-port mechanism for basic research, becoming one of the first provincial capitals to set up a regional innovation and development joint fund with the National Natural Science Foundation of China.

Last year, Hangzhou's research and development expenditure surpassed 85 billion yuan ($12 billion), an increase of 8.3 percent from the previous year, according to local authorities.

Wuhan, which ranked ninth in 2023, climbed a spot to eighth place in 2024. The city is now home to more than 16,600 high-tech enterprises, with the transaction value of technology contracts exceeding 260 billion yuan last year. The average annual growth rate of loan balances for sci-tech enterprises in the city has reached 20 percent, according to the Wuhan bureau of science and technology innovation.

Yin Hejun, minister of science and technology, said last month that sci-tech innovation can catalyze new industries, growth models and growth drivers, serving as the core element in developing new quality productive forces.

Shang, from the Tsinghua Tongheng Planning and Design Institute, said: "As the competitiveness and influence of these cities grow, they are better positioned to attract top talent and resources, becoming critical nodes in the global innovation network and contributing Chinese solutions to worldwide sci-tech advancement."

Wei Wangyu, Yang Chengand Xinhua contributed to this story.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
Hong Kong leverages maritime strengths to bolster global shipping's green shift

13:40, November 19, 2025 By Wang Xinyi ( Xinhua

HONG KONG, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Global shipping leaders are in Hong Kong this week to deliver a clear message: dialogue is the only way through the industry's triple crises -- fragmented decarbonization regulations, geopolitical disruptions and a seafarer shortage.

The two-day World Maritime Merchants Forum 2025, which closed on Tuesday, positions Hong Kong as an anchor of stability for the global shipping industry. Tasked with leveraging its links to the Chinese mainland and the world, the city is driving the sector's green transition.

Hong Kong's credentials are impressive. For the sixth consecutive year, it has been ranked fourth globally in the International Shipping Center Development Index. Home to over 1,200 port and maritime-related enterprises, the city specializes in ship management, finance, insurance, and law.

"Hong Kong shipowners control nearly 10 percent of the global merchant fleet by deadweight tonnage. Four of the world's top 10 ship management companies are headquartered here, overseeing thousands of vessels worldwide," said Angad Banga, chief operating officer of the Caravel Group and chairman of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association. "These are not just statistics -- they represent confidence in Hong Kong's delivery capabilities."

Shekkappan Kannan, regional service business manager of Alfa Laval (China) Ltd., views Hong Kong as an ideal destination for investment, technology, talent and legal services. He believes Hong Kong serves as a "facilitator" and "gateway" connecting the Chinese mainland to global markets.

As Martin Kroeger, CEO of the German Shipowners' Association, put it: the Chinese mainland will soon become a top producer of alternative fuels, and Hong Kong's financial strength can underpin this capacity transformation. This creates a "mainland production plus Hong Kong finance" model unmatched by any other hub.

Hong Kong's practicalism also makes it a bridge for rulemaking. "When crafting commercial rules, Hong Kong balances stakeholder interests, endowing it with a natural advantage to become a coordinator of maritime rules," noted Rolf Thore Roppestad, CEO of Gard AS. This proves invaluable amid global regulatory fragmentation.

Hong Kong is walking the talk. It will soon launch methanol bunkering and is planning green shipping corridors.

"We have a clear roadmap, even if the International Maritime Organization (IMO)'s framework lags," said Mable Chan, secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. She was referring to the city's Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering, which aligns with the 2050 net-zero goal of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Laws have been updated to permit liquefied natural gas and methanol bunkering. The Green Incentive Scheme has been rolled out to reward Hong Kong-registered ships that achieve high ratings under the IMO's international decarbonization standards. Meanwhile, the HKSAR government is allocating land for fuel storage facilities and offering tax breaks for new energy trade.

"The core is government-industry collaboration: listen first, then support," explains Edward Liu, the principal representative of the International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office.

"Hong Kong's busy, well-connected hub is turning potential into momentum," says Giles Lane, a director of Clarksons.

Wei Muheng of ZhenDui Industry Artificial Intelligence Co. Ltd (ZDIAI) hails the city as the "key green shipping financier and technology tester" for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Shipping's global nature demands cross-border cooperation, and Hong Kong is forging crucial connections. Mable Chan believed that the city could partner with Shenzhen's Yantian Port to leverage their comparative strengths. Kroeger advocates a "production-financing-application" chain linking Hong Kong's capital to Chinese mainland fuel plants. Kannan urges the city to "take the lead in regulation and mediation to help turn global consensus into action.

As emission rules and carbon taxes diverge across regions, which is weighing on the global decarbonization process, "dialogue and trust are what resolve disputes," said Vinod Kumar Sehgal, CEO and managing director of SeaQuest Shipmanagement. He expects the city to play a bigger role in the global shipping industry's green transition.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Zhong Wenxing)
HAMBURG, Germany , Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Hamburg Regional Court has handed down a landmark judgment on Alisher Usmanov's claim against a German individual who stated on Facebook that Mr Usmanov had allegedly used his sister to conceal assets in Swiss bank accounts. In 2022, similar assertions formed part of the rationale behind the EU and UK sanctions imposed against her.

Saodat Narzieva was included in the EU and UK sanctions lists in April 2022. The grounds for this inclusion were statements in the British newspaper The Guardian and on the websites of the OCCRP investigative journalists' consortium, reporting that Alisher Usmanov had allegedly transferred "significant assets" to Saodat Narzieva and that she "held 27 Swiss bank accounts linked to her brother".

Representatives of Alisher Usmanov and Saodat Narzieva denied these statements, which were subsequently refuted and later retracted or corrected by a number of media outlets. It was later shown that the narrative relied on a misinterpretation of internal and incomplete Credit Suisse account data and on erroneous readings of the "Suisse Secrets" leak. In September 2022, the EU Council removed Saodat Narzieva from the sanctions list, implicitly acknowledging that the factual basis for the measures was incorrect; however, the UK sanctions against her remain in force.

In September 2025, a German citizen published a post on his Facebook page that, among other things, contained the statement that Alisher Usmanov "used his sister, Saodat Narzieva, as the beneficial owner of accounts at Credit Suisse". After the author refused to remove the post, Alisher Usmanov filed a lawsuit. The Hamburg Regional Court found this statement to be unlawful and infringing Mr Usmanov's rights.

Pursuant to the judgment, failure to comply with the injunction may give rise to an administrative fine of up to EUR 250,000.00 to be imposed by the court, or to coercive detention of up to six months for each instance of infringement and up to two years in aggregate. The disputed Facebook post has now been removed.

In recent years, a number of media outlets from the USA, the UK, Ireland and Germany have voluntarily retracted similar statements about Alisher Usmanov and Saodat Narzieva.

"This is not the first time, that an EU court has confirmed that accusations against Mr Usmanov or his relatives are not backed up by facts," said media lawyer Joachim Steinhofel. "Sanctions and reputations should not be built on journalistic errors. The Hamburg court's judgment, together with the fact that the EU Council has already removed Ms Narzieva from its sanctions list, shows that restrictive measures against her were introduced on false grounds and should now be lifted in all other jurisdictions where they remain in force."

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/alisher-usmanov-wins-hamburg-court-case-over-key-allegations-used-to-justify-sanctions-against-his-sister---rechtsanwalte-steinhofel-302620884.html
NOT FOR DISSEMINATION IN THE UNITED STATES OR THROUGH U.S. NEWSWIRES

TORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Route1 Inc. (TSXV:ROI) ("Route1" or the "Company"), a leading engineering and professional services firm specializing in the deployment and integration of ALPR and other advanced data capture-based technologies to city, state, and federal first responder departments, public safety, colleges and universities, and parking managers, today announces that it has completed the first tranche (the "Initial Closing") of its non-brokered private placement (announced November 4, 2025) of units(each, a "Unit") at a price of C$0.075 per Unit for gross proceeds of approximately C$234,250 (the "Offering").

Each Unit consists of one common share in the capital of the Company (a "Common Share") and one common share purchase warrant (a "Warrant"). Each Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at a price of C$0.10 for a period of 18 months from the issue date of the Units.

At today's Initial Closing, the Company issued a total of 3,123,332 Common Shares and 3,123,332 Warrants. All securities issued pursuant to the Initial Closing are subject to a four-month hold period, expiring on March 20, 2026.

In connection with the Initial Closing, the Company paid Canaccord Genuity Corp. a cash finder's fee of C$8,812.50 and issued 117,500 finder's warrants (the "Finder's Warrants"). Each Finder's Warrant entitles the holder to purchase one Common Share at an exercise price of C$0.10 for a period of 18 months from the date of issuance.

Company management subscribed for Units totaling C$57,999.92, representing approximately 24.76% of the Initial Closing and 11.60% of the overall offering (which is up to C$500,000 as previously announced on November 4, 2025). The subscriptions by and issuance of Units to Company management constitute a related party transaction under Multilateral Instrument 61-101 Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company relied on exemptions from the formal valuation and minority approval requirements in sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101, respectively, in respect of such insider participation.

The Company intends to use the net proceeds of the Initial Closing to fund the development of Route1's Actionable Business Intelligence ("ABI") software application.

Version 4.0 - AI Co-Pilot

To be released in early 2026, Route1's co-pilot will be an AI operations co-pilot that acts as a force multiplier - exponentially extending staff capability. It will be purpose-built to optimize parking operations by combining advanced machine learning with a secure, scalable platform that keeps control of sensitive data in-house.

The system will run on a dedicated on-premises AI infrastructure including three GPU servers, backed by shared storage, solid-state checkpointing, and high-speed networking to deliver consistent low-latency performance.

Sized for state-of-the-art 13B-70B models, Route1's AI co-pilot will be designed for continuous refinement and understanding of unique parking operations and how socioeconomic factors and decisions can impact those operations in real time. Engineered for adaptive learning through feedback, measurement and refinement cycles, Route1's AI co-pilot will empower our clients to achieve even more in the future by unlocking advanced capabilities such as event-aware staffing, predictive compliance sweeps, proactive curb allocation, and strategic "what-if" investment planning. The more it is used, the stronger it becomes - growing into a domain-specialized AI expert in parking operations.

About Route1 ABI

Through a single intuitive interface, parking professionals can instantly evaluate current operations against dynamic benchmarks developed by Route1's domain experts. Route1's real-world benchmarks are segmented by enforcement and parking, providing intelligent baselines for live performance indicator tracking and trend analysis.

Built-in analytics drive higher visibility, tighter accountability, and measurable impact at every layer of a user's operation including:

Uncovering latent revenue opportunities.

Optimizing curbside usage.

Monitoring parking facility usage, including occupancy, and dwell and turnover times.

Visualizing compliance - the good, the bad and the ugly.

Route1 processes raw ALPR streams directly from our end user's mobile and fixed ALPR cameras, providing the most complete, accurate, and timely operational picture in the industry. Our technology ensures that every visualization reflects ground truth - allowing for confident, data-backed decision in real time.

About Route1 Inc.

Route1 Inc. is an advanced North American technology company that empowers their clients with data-centric solutions necessary to drive greater profitability, improve operational efficiency and gain sustainable competitive advantages, while always emphasizing a strong cybersecurity and information assurance posture. Route1 delivers exceptional client outcomes through real-time secure delivery of actionable intelligence to decision makers. Route1 is listed in Canada on the TSX Venture Exchange under the symbol ROI. For more information, visit: www.route1.com.

For More Information, Contact:

Tony Busseri

President and Chief Executive Officer

+1 480 578-0287

tony.busseri@route1.com

The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "U.S. Securities Act"), or any U.S. state securities laws, and may not be offered or sold in the "United States" (as such term is defined in Regulation S under the U.S. Securities Act) unless registered under the U.S. Securities Act and applicable U.S. state securities laws or an exemption from such registration is available. This news release shall not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

 2025 Route1 Inc. All rights reserved. No part of this document may be reproduced, transmitted or otherwise used in whole or in part or by any means without prior written consent of Route1 Inc. See https://www.route1.com/terms-of-use/ for notice of Route1's intellectual property.

This news release may contain statements that are not current or historical factual statements that may constitute forward-looking information and forward-looking statements. These statements are based on certain factors and assumptions, including expectations regarding the use of the net proceeds of the Initial Closing; the timing and completion of the Offering; and the receipt of all regulatory approvals including the approval of the TSXV in connection with the Offering, price and liquidity of the Common Shares; development and deployment of Route1's ABI software and AI co-pilot platform; and competition for skilled personnel, business prospects, technological developments, development activities and like matters. While Route1 considers these factors and assumptions to be reasonable, based on information currently available, they may prove to be incorrect. These statements involve risks and uncertainties, including but not limited to the ability to successfully complete the Offering; the ability to obtain all requisite regulatory approvals including the approval of the TSXV; the ability to apply the net proceeds as intended, technology development and integration risks, customer adoption, competition, market conditions, and the results of business operations. Actual results could differ materially from those projected as a result of these and other risks and should not be relied upon as a prediction of future events. The Company undertakes no obligation to update any forward-looking statement or future-oriented financial information to reflect events or circumstances after the date on which such statement is made, or to reflect the occurrence of unanticipated events, except as required by law. Past or forecasted performance is not a guarantee of future performance and readers should not rely on historical results or forward-looking statements or future oriented financial information as an assurance of future results.

SOURCE: Route1, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/computers-technology-and-internet/route1-announces-closing-of-first-tranche-of-non-brokered-private-1104733
Phoenix, Arizona--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Ivanhoe Electric Inc. (NYSE American: IE) (TSX: IE) ("Ivanhoe Electric") Executive Chairman Robert Friedland and President and Chief Executive Officer Taylor Melvin are pleased to announce that Ivanhoe Electric has accelerated and completed the final three land acquisition payments, totaling $39.3 million, at the Santa Cruz Copper Project in Arizona, satisfying all remaining terms of the Purchase and Sale Agreement with Wolff-Harvard Ventures LLC (refer to Ivanhoe Electric's May 11, 2023 news release). The promissory note previously issued, and now repaid, required the full outstanding balance to be paid by Ivanhoe Electric prior to commencement of major mine construction activities.

Mr. Melvin commented: "Accelerating our final land payments is a key step in the development of our Santa Cruz Copper Project. With a strong balance sheet and experienced project team, we are well-positioned to commence initial construction at Santa Cruz in early 2026 subject to receipt of necessary permits. We remain on track to achieve our goal of delivering first copper cathode production by late 2028."

About Ivanhoe Electric

We are a United States domiciled minerals exploration company with a focus on developing mines from mineral deposits principally located in the United States. We seek to support American supply chain independence by finding and delivering copper and other critical metals vital to advanced manufacturing, infrastructure development, technology, and national security. We use our powerful Typhoon geophysical surveying system, together with advanced data analytics provided by our 94.3% owned subsidiary, Computational Geosciences Inc. ("CGI"), to accelerate and de-risk the mineral exploration process as we seek to discover new deposits of critical metals that may otherwise be undetectable by traditional exploration technologies. We believe the United States is significantly underexplored and has the potential to yield major new discoveries of critical metals. Our mineral exploration efforts focus on copper as well as other metals including nickel, cobalt, platinum group elements, gold and silver. Through the advancement of our portfolio of critical metals exploration projects, headlined by the Santa Cruz Copper Project in Arizona, we intend to contribute to domestic supply by developing resources that support industrial and strategic sectors. We also operate a 50/50 joint venture with Saudi Arabian Mining Company ("Maaden") to explore for minerals on ~48,500 km2 of underexplored Arabian Shield in Saudi Arabia. Finally, in 2024, we established an exploration alliance with BHP Mineral Resources Inc. ("BHP"), a subsidiary of BHP Group Limited, to search for critical minerals in the United States.

Website: www.ivanhoeelectric.com

Contact Information

Mike Patterson

Vice President, Investor Relations and Business Development

Email: mike@ivnelectric.com

Phone: 1-480-601-7878

Follow us on X

Ivanhoe Electric's Executive Chairman Robert Friedland: @robert_ivanhoe

Ivanhoe Electric: @ivanhoeelectric

Ivanhoe Electric's investor relations website located at www.ivanhoeelectric.com should be considered Ivanhoe Electric's recognized distribution channel for purposes of the Securities and Exchange Commission's Regulation FD.

Forward-Looking Statements

Certain statements in this news release constitute "forward-looking statements" or "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable U.S. and Canadian securities laws. Such statements and information involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, performance or achievements of Ivanhoe Electric, its projects, or industry results, to be materially different from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements or information. Such statements can be identified by the use of words such as "may", "would", "could", "will", "intend", "expect", "believe", "plan", "anticipate", "estimate", "scheduled", "forecast", "predict", "target", "project" and other similar terminology, or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will" be taken, occur or be achieved. These statements reflect Ivanhoe Electric's current expectations regarding future events, performance and results and speak only as of the date of this news release.

Such statements in this news release include, without limitation, statements regarding: commencement of initial construction at the Santa Cruz Copper Project in early 2026, receipt of permits to commence construction at Santa Cruz Copper Project, and the ability to produce copper cathode by late 2028.

Forward-looking statements are based on management's beliefs and assumptions and on information currently available to management. Such statements are subject to significant risks and uncertainties, and actual results may differ materially from those expressed or implied in the forward-looking statements due to various factors, including changes in the prices of copper or other metals Ivanhoe Electric is exploring for; the results of exploration and drilling activities and/or the failure of exploration programs or studies to deliver anticipated results or results that would justify and support continued exploration, studies, development or operations; the final assessment of exploration results and information that is preliminary; the significant risk and hazards associated with any future mining operations, extensive regulation by the U.S. government as well as local governments; changes in laws, rules or regulations, or their enforcement by applicable authorities; the failure of parties to contracts with Ivanhoe Electric to perform as agreed; and the impact of political, economic and other uncertainties associated with operating in foreign countries, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and the global economy. These factors should not be construed as exhaustive and should be read in conjunction with the other cautionary statements and risk factors described in Ivanhoe Electric's Annual Report on Form 10-K filed and other disclosures with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

No assurance can be given that such future results will be achieved. Forward-looking statements speak only as of the date of this news release. Ivanhoe Electric cautions you not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements. Subject to applicable securities laws, Ivanhoe Electric does not assume any obligation to update or revise the forward-looking statements contained herein to reflect events or circumstances occurring after the date of this news release, and Ivanhoe Electric expressly disclaims any requirement to do so.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275207

SOURCE: Ivanhoe Electric
Recognition celebrates growth driven by platform innovation, AI leadership and user empowerment

DALLAS, TEXAS / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / HighLevel today announced it has been ranked #116 on the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500, a definitive list of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech and energy tech companies in North America.

From 2021 to 2024, HighLevel achieved 781% revenue growth, fueled by its evolution into an AI-powered Business Operating System that helps businesses work smarter, automate faster and scale more sustainably.

HighLevel's momentum stems from a clear mission: make business-building simpler and more scalable for agencies, entrepreneurs and SMBs, without the tech overload. By centralizing operations and embedding agentic AI into every workflow, the platform helps users save time, reduce overhead and deliver better customer experiences.

Today, HighLevel supports over 2 million businesses globally and powers:

67 million new leads per month

1.86 billion+ monthly messages

Millions of AI-managed conversations across chat, voice and SMS

The company's inclusion in the Fast 500 underscores a broader industry shift toward tools that give users control, speed and intelligence, without complexity.

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing tech companies in North America based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. Eligible companies must own proprietary technology that contributes significantly to revenue, have base-year operating revenues of at least $50,000 and current-year revenues of at least $5 million, and be in business for a minimum of four years.

About HighLevel

HighLevel is the AI Business Operating System designed for sales, marketing and operations, all in one white-labeled platform. Powering over 2 million businesses around the world, HighLevel helps users simplify their tech stacks, automate revenue growth and scale without sacrificing personalization. From AI Employees and real-time conversation bots to multi-channel marketing automation, HighLevel gives agencies, entrepreneurs and SMBs the competitive edge they need to thrive in today's fast-paced market.

To learn more about the Deloitte Technology Fast 500, visit: https://www.deloitte.com/us/fast500

Contact Information

Savannah Lipinski

savannah@gohighlevel.com

SOURCE: HighLevel LLC

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/business-and-professional-services/highlevel-ranked-among-the-fastest-growing-companies-in-north-am-1104564
The Trustees of the Rhodes Trust have appointed Chrystia Freeland as the next Warden of Rhodes House and Chief Executive Officer of the Rhodes Trust. Chrystia will start her role on 1 July 2026, taking over from Professor Sir Rick Trainor KBE, who has served as Interim Warden and CEO since 1 January 2025.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119545923/en/

Chrystia Freeland

The Rhodes Trust is an educational charity best known for the Rhodes Scholarship, which offers talented people from across the globe an opportunity to study at the University of Oxford.

An Alberta-born Rhodes Scholar who came to Oxford in 1991, Chrystia Freeland brings to the Trust a remarkable record of achievement as a prominent Canadian politician, acclaimed journalist, and award-winning author. She began her career in journalism as a Ukraine-based freelance reporter for the Financial Times, The Washington Post and The Economist, going on to serve as deputy editor of The Globe and Mail and United States managing editor of the Financial Times. She worked as managing director of Thomson Reuters before returning to Canada and entering politics in 2013. Since then, Chrystia has served as Canada's Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Finance and Minister of Foreign Affairs, amongst other positions, and has been recognised for her significant contributions to public life. With her unique blend of international experience spanning politics, journalism, and public policy, she will be able to bring new insights to the organisation.

Sir John Bell, Chairman of the Rhodes Trustees, welcomed the appointment: "Chrystia brings a wealth of experience from her work in global affairs, public policy and journalism. She has proven herself to be an outstanding leader with a remarkable ability to unite people around a common purpose qualities that will serve the Trust exceptionally well. We are delighted to welcome her and look forward to working together as she leads the Rhodes Trust into its next chapter. I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to Professor Sir Rick Trainor KBE, who ensured that the Trust remained in dynamic and capable hands as we conducted our search for a new Warden."

Bob Sternfels, Chairman of the Governance Committee, added: "We are excited to welcome Chrystia as she steps into this very important role for the Trust. She has an impressive track record of engaging a wide variety of stakeholders and driving positive change. I look forward to seeing all that the Trust will accomplish under her stewardship."

Chrystia Freeland expressed her enthusiasm for the new role: "It is an honour and privilege to return to Oxford as Warden of Rhodes House and CEO of the Rhodes Trust. Having personally benefitted from a Rhodes Scholarship, I know how deeply transformative and influential it can be on the lives and futures of our Scholars. The experience helped shape my international outlook and played a defining role in guiding my subsequent career. I look forward to working with the Trust to build on its remarkable legacy and further strengthen the impact of the Scholarships-on individual Scholars, on the global Rhodes community, and on society.

Professor Sir Rick Trainor KBE will remain in post until 30 June 2026, and Chrystia Freeland will start on 1 July after a period of handover.

About the Rhodes Trust and Rhodes Scholarships

The Rhodes Trust, based at the University of Oxford, is an educational charity that forges brighter futures for individuals and the world.

We do this through a family of global fellowship programmes. All these programmes find brilliant people from around the world, give them wonderful opportunities to learn and act together, and support them as they form lifelong communities. We began in 1903 with the Rhodes Scholarship. This is the world's pre-eminent graduate fellowship, bringing exceptional young people of character to the University of Oxford to study. Over 8000 Rhodes Scholars, from more than 50 countries, have gone on to serve at the forefront of education, business, science, medicine, the arts, politics and beyond. All this is made possible by the wonderful generosity of our Second Century Founders, John McCall MacBain and the Atlantic Philanthropies, as well as over 3000 other benefactors from around the world.

A hundred years on, we helped create the Mandela Rhodes Foundation, which finds, funds, and empowers young Africans to study in South Africa. In 2016, we partnered with Atlantic Philanthropies to create the Atlantic Institute which empowers catalytic communities of emerging leaders to advance fairer, healthier, more inclusive societies. A year later, we helped launch Schmidt Science Fellows in partnership with Schmidt Sciences, which brings scientific disciplines together to create novel ways of thinking and develop creative solutions.

We are based at Rhodes House in Oxford, which is home to most of our staff team who offer a comprehensive programme of support and learning for our Rhodes Scholars, convene a lifelong network for our alumni, and run our partnership programmes.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119545923/en/

Contacts:

Contact Information

Babette Littlemore, Director of Communications: babette.littlemore@rhodeshouse.ox.ac.uk
WINNIPEG, MB / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Medicure Inc. ("Medicure" or the "Company") (TSXV:MPH)(OTC:MCUJF), a company focused on the development and commercialization of pharmaceuticals and healthcare products for patients and prescribers in the United States market, today reported its results from operations for the quarter ended September 30, 2025.

Quarter Ended September 30, 2025 Highlights:

Recorded total net revenue of $8.2 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 compared to $5.2 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and;

Recorded total net revenue from the sale of AGGRASTAT of $1.0 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 compared to $1.9 million for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and;

Recorded total net revenue from the Marley Drug business of $3.3 million ($917,000 from sales of ZYPITAMAG , and $2.4 million from other pharmacy revenue) during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 compared to $2.7 million ($815,000 from sales of ZYPITAMAG and $1.9 million from other pharmacy revenue) for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and;

Recorded total net revenue from the sale of ZYPITAMAG of $1.7 million ($770,000 through the insured business, and $917,000 through Marley Drug) during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 compared to $1.4 million ($553,000 through insured business and $815,000 through Marley Drug) for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and;

Recorded total net revenue from the Gateway Pharmacy business of $890,000 during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 and;

Recorded total net revenue from the West Olympia Pharmacy business of $2.2 million during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 and;

Medicure invested $717,000 in research and development during the quarter ended September 30, 2025, underscoring our commitment to advancing innovative therapies, such as the Phase 3 trial of Medicure's investigational product MC-1 for the treatment of PNPO deficiency and delivering long-term value to patients and shareholders, and;

Adjusted earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization (adjusted EBITDA 1 ) for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was negative $597,000 compared to adjusted EBITDA of negative $467,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2024 and;

Net loss for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was $1.4 million or $0.13 per share compared to net income of $680,000 or $0.07 per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2024.

Financial Results

AGGRASTAT revenues have decreased during the current quarter, the Company continues to have pricing pressures as a result of generics of tirofiban hydrochloride, which launched during 2023. However, for the time being the number of hospital customers using AGGRASTAT continued to remain strong, and the Company continues to work on maintaining its customer base.

The Marley Drug business contributed net revenue of $3.3 million during the current quarter, compared to $2.7 million during the three month period ended September 30, 2024. The increase in revenue during the current period ended September 30, 2025 can be attributed to increased cash sales of ZYPITAMAG and BRENZAVVY through the pharmacy, offset by lower reimbursements from pharmacy benefit managers on insured sales. Marley Drug customers can order their prescriptions through its retail location in Winston-Salem North Carolina, on the telephone by calling the pharmacy's call center and through its e-commerce platform which launched during 2022.

ZYPITAMAG through insured channels contributed $770,000 of revenue for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 compared to $553,000 through insured channels for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. The increase in revenues in 2025 can be attributed to changes in insurance coverage and formularies and increased utilization of the product through insurance formularies, specifically Medicare Part D.

Revenue through Gateway Pharmacy during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was $890,000, while revenue through West Olympia Pharmacy during the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was $2.2 million. Both Gateway Pharmacy and West Olympia Pharmacy were acquired during current year, and as result, the Company did not earn any revenue through these pharmacies during the prior year. The Company intends on offering ZYPITAMAG in addition to other product offerings through the pharmacy, which have increased revenue at Marley Drug.

Net loss for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was $1.4 million or $0.13 per share compared to net income of $680,000 or $0.07 per share for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. Adjusted EBITDA for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was negative $597,000 compared to negative $467,000 for the quarter ended September 30, 2024. The decrease in net income and adjusted EBITDA for the quarter ended September 30, 2025 was due to a decrease in other income, a decrease in AGGRASTAT revenue, higher cost of goods sold through the Marley Drug business and higher selling expenses through the retail pharmacy operating segment; offset by an increase in revenue through Marley Drug, Gateway Pharmacy and West Olympia Pharmacy, a slight increase in ZYPITAMAG revenue through the insured channel, a decrease in general and administrative expenses as a result of lower professional fees incurred and a decrease research and development expenses primarily due to timing of said expenditures.

At September 30, 2025, the Company had unrestricted cash totaling $4.1 million, a decrease from $7.2 million of unrestricted cash held as of December 31, 2024. Cash used in operating activities for the nine month period ended September 30, 2025 was $592,000 compared to cash used in operating activities of $932,000 for the period ended September 30, 2024. Cash used in investing activities for the period ended September 30, 2025 was $2.2 million compared to $291,000 for the period ended September 30, 2024. The cash used in investing activities for the period ended September 30, 2025 related to the Company's acquisitions of Gateway Pharmacy and West Olympia Pharmacy during the current year. Cash used in financing activities was $304,000 during the quarter ended September 30, 2025, compared to $250,000 during the period ended September 30, 2024. Cash used in financing activities for both periods related to repayments made on the Company's lease liabilities.

All amounts referenced herein are in Canadian dollars unless otherwise noted.

The full financial statements are available at www.sedar.com and on the Company's website at www.medicure.com.

Notes

The Company defines EBITDA as "earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization" and Adjusted EBITDA as "EBITDA adjusted for non cash and non-recurring items". The terms "EBITDA" and "Adjusted EBITDA", as it relates to the three month period ended September 30, 2025 and 2024 results prepared using IFRS, do not have any standardized meaning according to IFRS.

Conference Call Info:

Topic: Medicure's Q3 2025 Results

Call date: Thursday, November 20, 2025

Time: 7:30 AM Central Time (8:30 AM Eastern Time)

Toll Free: 1 (888) 506-0062

International: 1 (973) 528-0011

Participant Access Code: 514899

Webcast: This conference call will be webcast live over the internet at the following link: https://www.webcaster5.com/Webcast/Page/2965/53141

You may request international country-specific access information by e-mailing the Company in advance. Management will accept and answer questions related to the financial results and operations during the question-and-answer period at the end of the conference call. A recording of the call will be available following the event at the Company's website.

About Medicure Inc.

Medicure is a company focused on the development and commercialization of pharmaceuticals and healthcare products for patients and prescribers in the United States market. The present focus of the Company is the marketing and distribution of AGGRASTAT (tirofiban hydrochloride) injection and ZYPITAMAG (pitavastatin) tablets in the United States, where they are sold through the Company's U.S. subsidiary, Medicure Pharma Inc. Medicure also operates Marley Drug Inc. ("Marley Drug"), a pharmacy subsidiary servicing all 50 states, Washington D.C. and Puerto Rico. Marley Drug is committed to improving access to medications for all Americans together with exceptional customer service and free home delivery. Medicure also operates Gateway Medical Pharmacy ("Gateway"), located in Portland, Oregon in a medical office building near major transportation lines and multiple healthcare clinics and centers. In addition to regular customers, the pharmacy services multiple long-term care facilities and provides non-sterile compounding services. Medicure also operates West Olympia Pharmacy ("West Olympia"), located in Olympia, Washington in a medical office complex near multiple clinics. For more information visit www.marleydrug.com. For more information about Medicure please visit www.medicure.com. For additional information about AGGRASTAT, please visit www.aggrastat.com or refer to the full Prescribing Information. For additional information about ZYPITAMAG, please visit www.zypitamag.com or refer to the full Prescribing Information.

To be added to Medicure's e-mail list, please visit:

http://medicure.mediaroom.com/alerts

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

Forward Looking Information: Statements contained in this press release that are not statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements containing the words "believes", "may", "plans", "will", "estimates", "continues", "anticipates", "intends", "expects" and similar expressions, may constitute "forward-looking information" within the meaning of applicable Canadian and U.S. federal securities laws (such forward-looking information and forward-looking statements are hereinafter collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements"). Forward-looking statements, include estimates, analysis and opinions of management of the Company made in light of its experience and its perception of trends, current conditions and expected developments, as well as other factors which the Company believes to be relevant and reasonable in the circumstances. Inherent in forward-looking statements are known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors beyond the Company's ability to predict or control that may cause the actual results, events or developments to be materially different from any future results, events or developments expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements, and as such, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. Such risk factors include, among others, the Company's future product revenues, expected results, including future revenue from P5P, the likelihood of receiving a priority review voucher from the United State Food and Drug Administration, expected future growth in revenues, stage of development, additional capital requirements, risks associated with the completion and timing of clinical trials and obtaining regulatory approval to market the Company's products, the ability to protect its intellectual property, dependence upon collaborative partners, changes in government regulation or regulatory approval processes, and rapid technological change in the industry. Such statements are based on a number of assumptions which may prove to be incorrect, including, but not limited to, assumptions about: general business and economic conditions; the impact of changes in Canadian-US dollar and other foreign exchange rates on the Company's revenues, costs and results; the timing of the receipt of regulatory and governmental approvals for the Company's research and development projects; the availability of financing for the Company's commercial operations and/or research and development projects, or the availability of financing on reasonable terms; results of current and future clinical trials; the uncertainties associated with the acceptance and demand for new products and market competition. The foregoing list of important factors and assumptions is not exhaustive. The Company undertakes no obligation to update publicly or otherwise revise any forward-looking statements or the foregoing list of factors, other than as may be required by applicable legislation. Additional discussion regarding the risks and uncertainties relating to the Company and its business can be found in the Company's other filings with the applicable Canadian securities regulatory authorities or the US Securities and Exchange Commission, and in the "Risk Factors" section of its current Form 20F.

AGGRASTAT (tirofiban hydrochloride) injection, ZYPITAMAG (pitavastatin) tablets, and Marley Drug are registered trademarks.

For more information, please contact:

Dr. Albert D. Friesen

Chief Executive Officer

Tel. 888-435-2220

Fax 204-488-9823

E-mail: info@medicure.com

www.medicure.com

Consolidated Statements of Financial Position

(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

September 30, 2025 December 31, 2024 Assets Current assets: Cash and cash equivalents $ 4,118 $ 7,191 Accounts receivable 4,509 5,298 Inventories 3,899 3,282 Prepaid expenses 274 126 Total current assets 12,800 15,897 Non-current assets: Property and equipment 1,076 955 Intangible assets 8,336 9,354 Goodwill 4,417 3,375 Other assets 94 98 Total non-current assets 13,923 13,782 Total assets $ 26,723 $ 29,679 Liabilities and Equity Current liabilities: Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 7,904 $ 7,932 Income taxes payable 41 95 Current portion of lease obligations 480 368 Acquisition payable 385 - Holdback payable 85 - Total current liabilities 8,895 8,395 Non-current liabilities Lease obligations 520 506 Total non-current liabilities 520 506 Total liabilities 9,415 8,901 Equity: Share capital 81,014 81,014 Contributed surplus 11,020 10,919 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (4,959 ) (4,264 ) Deficit (69,767 ) (66,891 ) Total equity 17,308 20,778 Total liabilities and equity $ 26,723 $ 29,679

Consolidated Statements of Net Loss and Comprehensive Loss

(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

For the three months ended September 30 For the nine months ended September 30 2025 2024 2025 2024 Revenue, net $ 8,159 $ 5,153 $ 20,312 $ 16,012 Cost of goods sold 5,386 2,354 11,261 6,364 Gross profit 2,773 2,799 9,051 9,648 Expenses Selling 2,199 1,970 6,161 5,783 General and administrative 1,167 1,191 3,526 3,763 Research and development 717 795 2,028 2,339 4,083 3,956 11,715 11,885 Other Income Legal settlement - (1,860 ) - (1,860 ) - (1,860 ) - (1,860 ) Finance (income) costs: Finance expense (income), net 2 (18 ) (52 ) (105 ) Foreign exchange loss, net 21 46 105 78 23 28 53 (27 ) Net income (loss) before income taxes $ (1,333 ) $ 675 $ (2,717 ) $ (350 ) Income tax (recovery) expense Current 63 (5 ) 159 136 Net income (loss) $ (1,396 ) $ 680 $ (2,876 ) $ (486 ) Other comprehensive income: Item that may be reclassified to profit or loss Exchange differences on translation of foreign subsidiaries 362 (281 ) (695 ) 430 Other comprehensive income (loss), net of tax 362 (281 ) (695 ) 430 Comprehensive income (loss) $ (1,034 ) $ 399 $ (3,571 ) $ (56 ) Earnings per share Basic $ (0.13 ) $ 0.07 $ (0.28 ) $ (0.05 ) Diluted $ (0.13 ) $ 0.07 $ (0.28 ) $ (0.05 )

Consolidated Statements of Cash Flows

(expressed in thousands of Canadian dollars, except per share amounts)

For the nine months ended September 30 2025 2024 Cash (used in) provided by: Operating activities: Net loss for the period $ (2,876 ) $ (486 ) Adjustments for: Other income - (1,860 ) Amortization of property, plant and equipment 373 323 Amortization of intangible assets 1,594 1,358 Share-based compensation 101 144 Inventory recovery, net - (203 ) Finance income, net (52 ) (105 ) Unrealized foreign exchange loss 105 78 Income tax expense 159 136 Change in the following: Accounts receivable 819 167 Inventories (524 ) 28 Prepaid expenses (128 ) (346 ) Accounts payable and accrued liabilities (28 ) (158 ) Interest received, net 109 121 Income taxes paid (244 ) (129 ) Cash used in operating activities (592 ) (932 ) Investing activities: Acquisition of intangible assets - (291 ) Acquisition of Gateway Pharmacy (542 ) - Acquisition of West Olympia Pharmacy (1,635 ) - Cash used in investing activities (2,177 ) (291 ) Financing activities: Repayment of lease liability (304 ) (250 ) Cash used in financing activities (304 ) (250 ) Decrease in cash and cash equivalents (3,073 ) (1,473 ) Cash and cash equivalents, beginning of period 7,191 6,369 Cash and cash equivalents, end of period $ 4,118 $ 4,896

SOURCE: Medicure, Inc.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/healthcare-and-pharmaceutical/medicure-reports-financial-results-for-quarter-ended-september-30-202-1104580
Toronto, Ontario--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Steven Leong, Head of Product at BlackRock Canada, and members of the BlackRock Canada team, joined Graham MacKenzie, Managing Director, Exchange Traded Products, Toronto Stock Exchange ("TSX"), to close the market and celebrate the 25th anniversary of the world's first fixed income ETFs.





Cannot view this video? Visit:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z3P5iVRcENc

On November 20, 2000, the innovative ETFs that are now known as the iShares Core Canadian Short Term Bond Index ETF (TSX: XSB) and the iShares Core Canadian Universe Bond Index ETF (TSX: XBB) were listed on the TSX and played an instrumental role in expanding access for investors to fixed income markets.

Today, fixed income ETFs are a massive worldwide success story. According to ETFGI, an independent ETF research and consulting provider, global fixed income ETF/ETP assets total US$3.324 trillion across 2,924 unique products globally (as of October 31, 2025).

iShares unlocks opportunities across markets to meet the evolving needs of investors.

With more than twenty years of experience, a global line-up of approximately 1,700+ exchange traded funds ("ETFs") and approximately US$5.2 trillion in assets under management as of September 30, 2025, iShares continues to drive progress for the financial industry. iShares funds are powered by the expert portfolio and risk management of BlackRock.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275243

SOURCE: Toronto Stock Exchange
Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Silver Wolf Exploration Ltd. (TSXV:SWLF)(OTCQB:SWLFF) ("Silver Wolf" or the "Company") is pleased that due to investor demand, the Company is upsizing its previously-announced non-brokered private placement (the "Updated Offering"). The Updated Offering will consist of up to 14,166,665 units of the Company ("Units") at a purchase price of C$0.15 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to C$2,125,000, subject to a minimum of 10,000,000 Units for gross proceeds of not less than C$1,500,000. The previous offering was to consist of a maximum 10,000,000 Units at C$0.15 per Unit for aggregate gross proceeds of up to C$1,500,000, and subject to a minimum of 6,000,000 Units for gross proceeds of not less than C$900,000. All other terms remain the same as disclosed in the Company's press release dated October 28, 2025.

Subject to the acceptance of the Updated Offering by the TSX Venture Exchange ("TSX-V"), the Company will carry out the Offering utilizing the Listed Issuer Financing Exemption, and the shares to be issued as part of the Units will be free-trading except in certain cases. The Company reserves the right to increase the size of the Offering, subject to the approval of the TSX-V.

Each Unit will be comprised of one (1) common share ("Common Share") of the Company and one half (1/2) of one non-transferable Common Share purchase warrant ("Warrant"). Each whole Warrant will entitle the holder to purchase one additional Common Share of the Company at an exercise price of $0.25 at any time up to 36 months following the date of issuance. Finder's fees may be paid by the Company in connection with the Units sold under the Offering as permitted under the policies of the TSX-V and applicable securities laws.

The Units may be offered in all provinces of Canada except Quebec. The Units may also be sold in offshore jurisdictions where permitted by law, and in the United States to Qualified Institutional Buyers as defined in Rule 144A under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), as well as "accredited investors" as defined in Rule 501(a) of Regulation D under the 1933 Act, by way of private placement pursuant to available exemptions from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act.

The net proceeds of the Offering will be used for a 13 hole, 3,000 meter drill program at the Skarn target on the central claim at the Ana Maria property in Mexico, and for the Company's general working capital requirements.

There is an offering document related to this Offering that will be available and can be accessed under the Company's profile at www.sedarplus.ca and at the Company's website at www.silverwolfexploration.com. Prospective investors should read this offering document before making an investment decision.

To the extent that any directors and/or officers of Silver Wolf (collectively, the "Insiders") participate in the Offering, such participation will constitute a "related party transaction" within the meaning of Multilateral Instrument 61-101 - Protection of Minority Security Holders in Special Transactions ("MI 61-101"). The Company expects any participation by the Insiders in the Offering will be exempt from the formal valuation and minority shareholder approval requirements of MI 61-101 pursuant to sections 5.5(a) and 5.7(1)(a) of MI 61-101 based on the fact that neither the fair market value of the Units subscribed for by the Insiders, nor the consideration for the Units to be paid by the Insiders, will exceed 25% of the Company's market capitalization. Common Shares issued to Insiders under the Offering may also be subject to a 4-month resale restriction under TSX-V policies.

About Silver Wolf

Silver Wolf is an exploration company focused on exploring high potential projects in prime silver and gold regions of Mexico including the Ana Maria and El Laberinto properties. The Ana Maria claims are located 21 kilometres (km) northwest of the City of Gomez Palacio and the adjacent City of Torreon. The property consists of 9 mining concessions encompassing 2,549 hectares (ha). The claims are located in a well-known area that is prolific for carbonate replacement deposits (CRDs) as well as skarn deposits in the vicinity of many active or historic mining operations. The Company has operational synergies with Avino Silver & Gold Mines Ltd. and shares many years of combined experience in exploration, development and production. In addition, Silver Wolf has an experienced geological field team who have worked on similar projects with a demonstrated understanding of the jurisdiction and local communities.

For further information please contact Silver Wolf Exploration Ltd. at ph. (604) 682-3701 or visit our website at www.silverwolfexploration.com.

The management team at Silver Wolf welcomes the opportunity to connect with investors and answer questions. Connect with us on Twitter @SWLFexploration and on LinkedIn at Silver Wolf Exploration Ltd.

ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD

"Peter Latta"

_________________________________

Peter Latta

President

Cautionary Note

The information contained herein contains "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of applicable securities legislation. Forward-looking statements relate to information that is based on numerous assumptions and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, including risks inherent in mineral exploration and development, which may cause the actual results, performance, or achievements of the Company to be materially different from any projected future results, performance, or achievements expressed or implied by such forward-looking statements. Such factors include, but are not limited to: general business, economic, competitive, political and social uncertainties; delay or failure to receive board, shareholder or regulatory approvals; and the uncertainties surrounding the mineral exploration industry. Such information contained herein represents management's best judgment as of the date hereof based on information currently available. The Company does not assume an obligation to update any forward-looking statement. Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this news release.

Not for distribution to United States newswire services or for dissemination in the United States.

This news release does not constitute an offer to sell or a solicitation of an offer to buy nor shall there be any sale of any of the securities in any jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful, including any of the securities in the United States of America. The securities have not been and will not be registered under the United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") or any state securities laws and may not be offered or sold within the United States or to, or for account or benefit of, U.S. Persons (as defined in Regulation S under the 1933 Act) unless registered under the 1933 Act and applicable state securities laws, or an exemption from such registration requirements is available.

SOURCE: Silver Wolf Exploration Ltd.

View the original press release on ACCESS Newswire:https://www.accessnewswire.com/newsroom/en/metals-and-mining/silver-wolf-announces-upsizing-of-life-offering-of-units-to-up-to-c2.125-million-1104654
Vancouver, British Columbia--(Newsfile Corp. - November 19, 2025) - Galloper Gold Corp. (CSE: BOOM) (OTC Pink: GGDCF) (the "Company" or "Galloper") announces that it has granted incentive stock options to purchase a total of 200,000 common shares at an exercise price of $0.065 per common share for a period of 24 months to a consultant of the Company in accordance with the provisions of its omnibus equity incentive plan.

About Galloper Gold Corp.

Galloper is focused on mineral exploration in the Central Newfoundland Gold Belt with its Glover Island and Mint Pond properties, each prospective for gold and base metals. The Glover Island Property, which hosts the historic Lucky Smoke gold occurrence and the recently awarded Lunch Pond South Extension consists of 477 mining claims totaling 11,925 hectares while Mint Pond consists of 499 claims totaling 12,475 hectares.

For more information, please visit www.GalloperGold.com and the Company's profile on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca.

On behalf of the Board of Directors,

Mr. Hratch Jabrayan

CEO and Director

Galloper Gold Corp.

Neither the Canadian Securities Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275248

SOURCE: Galloper Gold Corp.
The outlook for the KLKB1 inhibitors market is increasingly positive, driven by growing recognition of the kallikrein-kinin pathway's pivotal role in inflammatory, cardiovascular, and rare disease mechanisms. Recent product approvals, such as TAKHZYRO, EKTERLY, KALBITOR, ORLADEYO, and DAWNZTERA, along with emerging therapies such as Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others, underscore both the scientific validation and accelerating commercial potential of this therapeutic area.

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Size, Target Population, Competitive Landscape & Market Forecast report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, addressable patient population, which includes top indications such as Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others. The selected indications are based on approved therapies and ongoing pipeline activity. The report also provides insights into the emerging KLKB1 inhibitors, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into leading markets (the US, EU4, UK, and Japan).

Key Takeaways from the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

The total market size of KLKB1 inhibitors in the leading markets is expected to surge significantly by 2034.

The report provides the total potential number of patients in the indications, such as Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others.

and others. Leading KLKB1 inhibitor companies, such as Intellia Therapeutics, Astria Therapeutics, Rezolute, and others, are developing novel KLKB1 inhibitors that can be available in the KLKB1 inhibitors market in the coming years.

and others, are developing novel KLKB1 inhibitors that can be available in the KLKB1 inhibitors market in the coming years. Some of the key KLKB1 inhibitors in clinical trials include Lonvoguran ziclumeran, Navenibart (STAR-0215), RZ402, and others.

Discover which indication is expected to grab the major KLKB1 inhibitors market share @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

Key Factors Driving the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market

Rising Prevalence of Hereditary Angioedema

The increasing number of patients diagnosed with HAE, a rare genetic disorder that causes severe swelling attacks, is a primary driver. KLKB1 inhibitors target plasma kallikrein, a key enzyme in HAE pathology, providing effective treatment options for the prevention and management of attacks.

Growing Demand for Targeted and Personalized Medicine

KLKB1 inhibitors represent precision therapies that specifically target disease pathways, aligning with the trend toward personalized medicine in rare diseases and inflammatory conditions, which increases their appeal.

Advancements in Drug Development

Ongoing research and development focus on creating novel KLKB1 inhibitors such as Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others with improved efficacy, safety profiles, oral administration options, and combination therapies. These innovations address unmet medical needs and patient convenience, fostering market growth.

KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Analysis

KLKB1 inhibitors, including TAKHZYRO (lanadelumab), ORLADEYO (berotralstat), EKTERLY (sebetralstat), and DAWNZTERA (donidalorsen), have swiftly established themselves as standard-of-care treatments for hereditary angioedema (HAE), offering both prophylactic and acute attack management through diverse delivery routes such as oral, injectable, and RNA-based formulations.

The recent approvals of EKTERLY as the first oral on-demand therapy and DAWNZTERA as the first RNA-based prophylactic, along with NTLA-2002 advancing into Phase III as a gene-editing therapy, underscore a shift in the pipeline toward greater treatment convenience, sustained efficacy, and the potential for curative solutions.

Elevated plasma kallikrein levels have been associated with heightened cardiovascular risks, including myocardial infarction and stroke in men. Similarly, children with abnormal lipid profiles or metabolic syndrome exhibit higher kallikrein levels, linking the enzyme to vascular inflammation and cardiovascular disease progression.

Thus, inhibiting plasma kallikrein (PKal) has been validated as a promising therapeutic approach for managing HAE, diabetic microvascular complications, and cardiovascular disorders. Emerging candidates such as RZ402 for diabetic macular edema (DME) represent the next wave of KLKB1 inhibitors targeting more prevalent indications, significantly broadening commercial opportunities beyond rare diseases like HAE.

Overall, kallikrein inhibitors, while currently centered on HAE treatment, are increasingly being explored for DME, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and other vascular and inflammatory conditions.

Learn more about the KLKB1 inhibitors @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Analysis

KLKB1 Inhibitors Competitive Landscape

Some of the KLKB1 inhibitors in clinical trials include Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others.

Intellia Therapeutics' Lonvo-z, previously known as NTLA-2002, is an investigational in vivo CRISPR-based gene editing therapy designed to prevent hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks by inactivating the KLKB1 gene, which encodes prekallikrein, the precursor to kallikrein. The therapy has earned five key regulatory designations, including Orphan Drug and Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) status from the U.S. FDA, the Innovation Passport from the UK MHRA, PRIME (Priority Medicines) designation from the EMA, and Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the European Commission.

Astria Therapeutics' Navenibart is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits plasma kallikrein and is being developed for the treatment of HAE. The objective with navenibart is to deliver fast-acting and long-lasting prevention of HAE attacks through a well-established mechanism and trusted antibody modality, administered subcutaneously every 3 to 6 months. The ultimate goal is to enable people living with HAE to lead lives free from the constraints of their condition.

The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies are poised to transform the KLKB1 inhibitors market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the KLKB1 inhibitors market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth.

To know more about KLKB1 inhibitors clinical trials, visit @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Treatment

Recent Developments in the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market

In September 2025, Intellia Therapeutics announced it had completed enrollment in the global Phase III HAELO study of lonvoguran ziclumeran for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. Topline data are expected to be available in the first half of 2026. Intellia is on track to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) in the second half of 2026 to support the company's plans for a US launch in the first half of 2027.

announced it had completed enrollment in the global Phase III HAELO study of lonvoguran ziclumeran for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. Topline data are expected to be available in the first half of 2026. Intellia is on track to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) in the second half of 2026 to support the company's plans for a US launch in the first half of 2027. In September 2025, KalVista Pharmaceuticals announced that the European Commission and Swissmedic approved EKTERLY for the symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of HAE in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

announced that the European Commission and Swissmedic approved EKTERLY for the symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of HAE in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. In August 2025, Ionis Pharmaceuticals announced that the FDA had approved DAWNZERA for the prophylaxis of HAE attacks in adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. DAWNZERA is the first and only RNA-targeted medicine approved for the treatment of hereditary angioedema.

announced that the FDA had approved DAWNZERA for the prophylaxis of HAE attacks in adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. DAWNZERA is the first and only RNA-targeted medicine approved for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. In August 2025, Astria Therapeutics announced that it had exclusively licensed development and commercialization rights in Japan to Kaken Pharmaceutical for navenibart, a Phase III development candidate for the preventive treatment of HAE.

announced that it had exclusively licensed development and commercialization rights in Japan to Kaken Pharmaceutical for navenibart, a Phase III development candidate for the preventive treatment of HAE. In July 2025, KalVista Pharmaceuticals announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the UK granted marketing authorization, and the US FDA had approved EKTERLY for the treatment of HAE attacks in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the UK granted marketing authorization, and the US FDA had approved EKTERLY for the treatment of HAE attacks in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. In June 2025, Intellia Therapeutics announced three-year follow-up data from the Phase I portion of the ongoing Phase I/II study in patients with HAE after receiving a single dose of lonvo-z (NTLA-2002). Results were presented orally at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress 2025.

announced three-year follow-up data from the Phase I portion of the ongoing Phase I/II study in patients with HAE after receiving a single dose of lonvo-z (NTLA-2002). Results were presented orally at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress 2025. In June 2025, Astria Therapeutics announced positive initial results from the target enrollment group in the ongoing ALPHA-SOLAR long-term open-label trial evaluating navenibart in HAE patients. These results demonstrated robust overall reduction in the monthly attack rate (92% mean and 97% median) and further supported its favorable safety and tolerability profile, and potential every three-month (Q3M) and every six-month (Q6M) dosing regimens.

What are KLKB1 Inhibitors?

KLKB1 inhibitors act on plasma kallikrein, a pivotal enzyme in the kallikrein-kinin system (KKS) that cleaves high-molecular-weight kininogen to produce bradykinin, a key mediator of vasodilation, vascular permeability, pain, and inflammation. Dysregulation of this pathway is linked to various inflammatory, cardiovascular, metabolic, and thrombotic conditions, positioning KLKB1 as an essential regulator of vascular function and immune activity. In addition to suppressing bradykinin generation, KLKB1 inhibition affects coagulation pathways and interacts with the complement system, suggesting a broader role in maintaining vascular balance and regulating inflammatory processes. Emerging research underscores its therapeutic potential in retinal vascular leakage, diabetic complications, and thrombosis prevention, highlighting its broader relevance beyond hereditary angioedema.

KLKB1 Inhibitors Epidemiology Segmentation

The KLKB1 inhibitors market report is a comprehensive and specialized analysis, offering in-depth epidemiological insights for the study period 2020-2034 across the leading markets. As per DelveInsight's assessment, the total diagnosed prevalent cases of HAE in the 7MM in 2024 were ~14,000, which is expected to increase by 2034, at a considerable CAGR.

The KLKB1 inhibitor target patient pool is segmented into:

Total Cases of Selected Indications For KLKB1 Inhibitors

Total Eligible Patient Pool of Selected Indications

Total Treated Cases in the Selected Indication For KLKB1 Inhibitors

KLKB1 Inhibitors Report Metrics Details Study Period 2020-2034 KLKB1 Inhibitors Report Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU-4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan] Key Indications Covered in the Report Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others Key KLKB1 Inhibitor Companies Intellia Therapeutics, Astria Therapeutics, Rezolute, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and others Key KLKB1 Inhibitors Lonvoguran ziclumeran, Navenibart (STAR-0215), RZ402, DAWNZERA, EKTERLY, ORLADEYO, TAKHZYRO, and others

Scope of the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

KLKB1 Inhibitors Therapeutic Assessment: KLKB1 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies

KLKB1 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Dynamics: Conjoint Analysis of Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitors Drugs

Conjoint Analysis of Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitors Drugs Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Access and Reimbursement

Discover more about KLKB1 inhibitors in development @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Clinical Trials

Table of Contents

1 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Key Insights 2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary of KLKB1 Inhibitors 4 Key Events 5 Epidemiology and Market Forecast Methodology 6 KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Overview at a Glance in the 7MM 6.1 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Share (%) Distribution by Indication in 2024 6.2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Share (%) Distribution by Indication in 2034 7 KLKB1 Inhibitors: Background and Overview 8 Treatment and Management 9 Target KLKB1 Inhibitor Patient Pool 9.1 Key Findings 9.2 Assumptions and Rationale: 7MM 9.3 Epidemiology Scenario in the 7MM 9.3.1 Total Cases of Selected Indication for KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 9.3.2 Total Eligible Patient Pool for KLKB1 Inhibitors in Selected Indications in the 7MM 9.3.3 Total Treatable Cases in Selected Indications for KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 10 Marketed KLKB1 Inhibitor Therapies 10.1 Key Competitors 10.2 EKTERLY (sebetralstat): KalVista Pharmaceuticals 10.2.1 Product Description 10.2.2 Regulatory milestones 10.2.3 Other developmental activities 10.2.4 Clinical development 10.2.5 Safety and efficacy 10.2.6 Analyst Views 10.3 TAKHZYRO (lanadelumab-flyo): Takeda Pharmaceutical List to be continued in the report 11 Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitor Therapies 11.1 Key Competitors 11.2 Lonvoguran ziclumeran (lonvo-z): Intellia Therapeutics 11.2.1 Product Description 11.2.2 Other developmental activities 11.2.3 Clinical development 11.2.4 Safety and efficacy 11.2.5 Analyst Views 11.3 Navenibart (STAR-0215): Astria Therapeutics List to be continued in the report 12 KLKB1 Inhibitors Market: Seven Major Market Analysis 12.1 Key Findings 12.2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Outlook 12.3 Key KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Forecast Assumptions 12.4 Total Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 12.5 The United States KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 12.5.1 Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors by Indication in the United States 12.5.2 Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors by Therapies in the United States 12.6 EU4 and the UK KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 12.7 Japan KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 13 SWOT Analysis of KLKB1 Inhibitors 14 KOL Views of KLKB1 Inhibitors 15 Unmet Needs of KLKB1 Inhibitors 16 Market Access and Reimbursement 16.1 United States 16.2 EU4 and the UK 16.3 Japan 16.4 Summary and Comparison of Market Access and Pricing Policy Developments in 2025 16.5 KLKB1 Inhibitors: Market Access and Reimbursement 17 Bibliography 18 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Report Methodology

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A debut and a win: Kia's first fully electric van, the PV5, claims the most prestigious award for LCVs

Voted by a jury of journalists representing 26 countries, the PV5 is named '2026 International Van of the Year'

The PV5 Cargo Long has also proven its real-world usability, holding a GUINNESS WORLD RECORDS title for the longest distance travelled by an electric van with full payload on a single charge

FRANKFURT, Germany and LYON, France, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia's all-electric PV5 has been named the '2026 International Van of the Year' (IVOTY), marking a historic first victory for both Kia and a Korean manufacturer. The award was presented on 19 November at the IVOTY Award Gala during SOLUTRANS 2025 in Lyon, France, following a vote by a jury of leading commercial vehicle journalists representing 26 countries.

"Congratulations to Kia for winning the prestigious 34th International Van of the Year Award," said Jarlath Sweeney, Chairman of the International Van of the Year jury. "The all-electric Kia PV5 sets a new benchmark for innovation, efficiency, and all-round capability in the light commercial vehicle segment. It combines zero-emission performance with versatility and practicality, redefining what businesses can expect from a modern van. Kia has long been celebrated for its award-winning cars, and now, its van division is making an equally powerful impact on the industry."

Kia's all-electric PV5 was listed for consideration alongside six other models launched in 2025, including two other electric vans, further highlighting the growing importance of electrification as the industry accelerates toward a more sustainable future.

Marc Hedrich, President & CEO of Kia Europe stated, "Winning the prestigious International Van of the Year Award is a true honour and a strong endorsement from some of the most respected journalists in the LCV industry, especially as the first vehicles are just arriving in Europe. Though new to the LCV market, this achievement confirms Kia's readiness to deliver engineering, design, and practicality to strengthen our position as a leading mobility solutions provider. Our sincere thanks go to the IVOTY jurors for this recognition and to all Kia employees for their dedication."

Available now in Cargo Long and Passenger versions across Europe, the PV5 will be joined from 2026 by new variants, including a Chassis Cab, short-wheelbase Cargo (L1H1), and High Roof (L2H2). The larger PV7 and PV9 are currently in development.

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Filmmaker Gurinder Chaddha has been making films for over two decades now. Her International work has transcended boundaries and borders and two of her most accomplished and acclaimed works are Bride And Prejudice and Bend It Like Beckham. Chadha has now directed her new film called Christmas Karma.

Christmas Karma is basically a British musical comedy-drama film written and directed by Gurinder Chadha. A Bollywood-inspired adaptation of the Charles Dickens 1843 novella A Christmas Carol, the film features an ensemble cast including Kunal Nayyar, Leo Suter, Charithra Chandran, Pixie Lott, Danny Dyer, Boy George, Hugh Bonneville, Billy Porter, and Eva Longoria.

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In an exclusive interview with Firstpost, the filmmaker spoke about her new film that has opened in the U.K., working with Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and the global success Priyanka Chopra has achieved in the West. Chopra sang the Indian version of Last Christmas for her film.

Edited excerpts from the interview

What fascinated you about Christmas Carol?

So my favourite Christmas movie is Its a Wonderful Life by Frank Capra. Its like a Hindi film, honestly. Its a beautiful film and every year it comes on, every year we watch it, we cry like babies in the film. Its so moving and its a very heartfelt film about what human life means and the value of human life. And a few years back, after Id watched it for the, 19th, 20th time, I said to myself, I want to make a film that makes me feel like that at Christmas.

And Christmas is a big deal for us in England because its really a family holiday. Its the time when the whole family comes together and you eat and drink and obviously theres the spiritual side, but its become a big sort of national holiday. So we grew up with Christmas, so Christmas to me is about family time and so I wanted to make a film that I could watch with my kids that that reflected what I felt about the world and the meaning of human existence. And that became Christmas Karma.

Your films are very colourful. There are so many vibrant characters and this time the backdrop is Christmas. So can we expect the same template for this film as well?

Im very happy that PVR theatres is releasing it because itll be on the big screen and its a musical and theres a lot of colour in the songs and the settings because its beautiful shots of London at Christmas. We also have some shots of Africa and animals in Africa. So I think its a nice cinematic treat. I forgot to mention one of the things that was exciting for me on this film, even though its Charles Dickens, was that I also partnered with Civic Studios, which is an Indian company. I think youll find that all the songs are there, the colours are there. But more than that, its actually also saying something quite serious. The film is about what it means to be human. How do we do we live the best life? Not just for us, for people around us. This is a very Indian thing. We already know this, but in the West, somehow its got lost. And so this is where the Indian side of me comes out, I think.

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How much do you feel Indian cinema has changed or evolved?

I think its changed a lot. And its been really wonderful to see those changes. And I think seeing, particularly so many women, Indian women, making movies that are being seen, internationally, is amazing. And I think we must also thank the OTT platforms like Netflix and Amazon. So you have so many great dramas there now. Theres so many international content as well for people to watch. I think its just changed the way cinema here is telling its stories compared to back then. But you still have the masala film. And you still need the masala films. We mustnt forget that.

What are your memories of making Bride and Prejudice and working with Aishwarya Rai?

We just had so much fun. We were together for so many weeks in India, in Goa, in Amritsar, in Bombay. We shot here, just here at the port. We created the main street of Amritsar right here by the docks. No one can tell because it looks like Punjab, but we shot it just here. And then we were in LA for some time in Sedona. So we spent a lot of time travelling in all the locations, and it was a lot of fun.

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I think Aishwarya was very committed to doing a crossover film. She was working with actors from over there. And I think that was to be applauded. She did very well. Even Priyanka Chopra, I think, is doing an amazing job out there because its not easy to work in in the kind of Hollywood system, all the British movie system. Theres very few of us that survive out there just because of everything is more geared towards the white audience. But I think Priyanka has done a great job of opening that door, certainly for other actors as well.
This next chapter isnt just about rolling out another beauty line; its about crafting products that genuinely help people feel great in their own skin

After making a splash in the worlds of fashion, and e-commerce, Sanaa Khan and M. Kabeer Khan are steering their brand Renez into an exciting new territory with perfumes and skincare. This next chapter isnt just about rolling out another beauty line; its about crafting products that genuinely help people feel great in their own skin.

The duo sees this shift as a natural evolution of Renezs core values: creativity with a purpose. Their upcoming range emphasizes clean formulations, understated luxury, and real results. Rather than chasing fleeting trends, Renez is merging smart skincare science with ingredients that harmonize with the skins with natural Glow and shine giving it balance with lively look .

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Weve always believed that beauty should feel effortless, Sanaa Khan shares. Our products are meant to seamlessly fit into real lives, not complicate them. Good skincare and fragrance should boost your confidence, not mask it.

The perfume collection embodies the brands signature vibe: bold, elegant,

and class with a touch unexpected. From soft, everyday scents to rich, lasting blends, each fragrance tells a personal story.

On the skincare front, Renez is honing in on essentials that deeply hydrate, restore, and protect without any unnecessary additives. Their approach is grounded in transparency and sustainability, ensuring that each product is not only good for the skin but also kinder to the planet.

With this launch, I feel Renez is not just another skin care Perfume brand for us. We build a Bond with our customer,this is Emotion which goes in you through your skin make you feel good by wearing your perfume which brings out the confidence , its a feeling not just a product as every frangnance have a different story different impression on the soul .This isnt just another brand move; its a bold statement about what the future of self-care can look like when approached with thoughtfulness.
A tragic incident has claimed the life of eight-month-pregnant Indian-origin IT analyst, Samanvitha Dhareshwar. The 33-year-old Indian woman lost her life while crossing the street with her family. She was struck during a two-car collision in Australias Sydney

The Indian-origin woman, who was killed in car crash in Australia. Image Courtesy: X

In a unfortunate event, a car crash in Australia killed an Indian-origin pregnant woman and her unborn baby, with the police now arresting the driver of the car. He has been charged with several offences, including dangerous driving occasioning death.

According to the report, a magistrate refused him bail due to the severity of the incident.

Police asserted that Samanvitha Dhareshwar, an eight-month pregnant Indian woman, suffered serious injuries. She was rushed to Westmead Hospital, where doctors declared that they could not save her and her unborn child.

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So, what do we know about Dhareshwar, killed by a speeding BMW in Australia?

Lets take a closer look:

Samanvitha Dhareshwar was an Indian woman living in Australia along with her husband and a three-year-old son.

The victim, a 33-year-old Indian-origin IT systems analyst, was working with Alsco Uniforms, a uniform rental firm.

She was only weeks away from giving birth to her second child.

According to reports from people, the fatal accident occurred on the evening of November 14 when she was crossing the street with her husband and three-year-old son.

Police said that she had gone for a walk with her husband and a three-year-old son when the tragedy struck.

Australian authorities asserted that Dhareshwar was hit by a car in the Sydney suburb of Hornsby.

According to the cops, the Kia car slowed down, allowing the family to cross the footpath on George Street.

In that moment, a speeding BMW hit the Kia from behind, and it hit Dhareshwar when she was stepping across the entrance of a car park.

Dhareshwar suffered catastrophic injuries and was immediately rushed to the Westmead Hospital. However, the doctor could not save both her and her unborn child, police asserted.

It remains unclear at this moment whether her husband or her three-year-old son was hurt in the crash.

The BMW, reportedly driven by a 19-year-old, was later arrested on Saturday morning at his Wahroonga home, and serious charges, including negligent driving occasioning death and others, were imposed, according to reports.

A magistrate denied bail to the accused Australian teen driving a BMW.

Its a terrible outcome for two families, a broadcaster quoted the magistrate as saying.

Meanwhile, the devastating incident shook Sydneys Indian community. Tributes, in the form of flowers and handwritten notes, have been placed at the crash site.

One message read, I pray for you and your little one that you are held with love as you leave this world. Words cant describe how sorry I am that this has happened to you."

A woman named Laura, who witnessed Dhareshwar in her final moments and rushed to her, left a card at the scene, addressing the 33-year-old pregnant woman, Dear Mum + Bub + family. I arrived here on my nightly walk just after the accident occurred."

While we dont know each other, it was a great privilege to be present with you for those moments, she added.

With inputs from agencies
Beware of Chinese spies. MI5, Britains domestic spy service, has warned parliamentarians about individuals posing as LinkedIn recruiters to extract valuable and sensitive information. The intelligence agency even pointed out two online profiles  an Amanda Qiu and Shirly Shen  believed to be headhunters working for Chinese intelligence officials. This warning comes amid rising concerns about Beijings espionage activities in the UK

Britain's domestic intelligence agency MI5 warned that China was using spies disguised as headhunters to recruit parliamentarians, amid concern over Beijing's activities in the UK. File image/AFP

What happens if you receive a message from a LinkedIn headhunter offering you a job opportunity? Chances are you shall click on the message in the hope of finding a chance at better opportunity. But in the United Kingdom, these innocuous messages from headhunters arent actually job advertisements, but an attempt by China to spy.

In fact, on Tuesday (November 18), Britains domestic spy service, MI5, issued an alert, saying that the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) was using websites like LinkedIn to build relationships with parliamentarians, in an effort to collect sensitive information on the UK to gain strategic advantage.

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However, the Chinese embassy has dismissed these accusations as pure fabrication. Nevertheless, this marks a new flashpoint in the increasingly tense relationship between China and the UK over alleged espionage.

Heres what we know so far.

Chinas new modus operandi: Fake firm seeks expert

On Tuesday morning, the MI5 sent a warning to UK parliamentarians, in which it highlighted Chinas latest attempts at espionage. It noted that China was aiming to collect information and lay the groundwork for long-term relationships, using professional networking sites, recruitment agents and consultants acting on their behalf.

It said targets would initially be approached to work as freelance consultants authoring geopolitical reports for companies based in China. They may be legitimate companies or they may be fictitious.

Officers use false personas on websites such as LinkedIn, which they use to spot and approach targets, it said. From the start, officers are particularly interested in non-public and insider insights as well as in understanding networks, to identify potential sources of information.

The two examples of such cases was of Amanda Qiu, from BR-YR Executive Search, and Shirly Shen, who is linked to Internship Union.

According to MI5, Qiu reached out to James Price, a former Tory special adviser, offering a part-time job as a think tank expert. Claiming to represent a Chinese battery company, she wrote: Hi James, Glad to friend you.

A screenshot of Amanda Qius LinkedIn page.

It would be a pleasure to introduce an opportunities for academic/business collaboration. Currently we are searching for Think Tank Expert for PBG. It is a part-time job which wont take much of your time. If you are interested we are happy to communicate in more details.

She further added a link to a website for a Chinese company that appeared to specialise in lithium batteries. And when Price asked what PBG stood for, Qiu said: Power Glory Battery Tech (Shenzhen) Co, Ltd, founded in 2004, is a national high-tech enterprise specilising [sic] in the research, development, manufacture and sales of micro lithium power supplies.

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While Price didnt respond further, he was quoted as telling The Times, Its very worrying that the Chinese Communist Party have the resources and intent to try to engage even former special advisers, let alone MPs and senior civil servants. I hope the government is wise to the extreme threat the CCP represents and responds robustly.

In a second instance, she wrote about a vacancy for insiders within politics. The ad read: You could be an expert or an insider regarding either politics or the economy within your country. It would be best if you have a previous experience in or currently working at either gov, college or think tank, which help you [sic] being familiar with policies and giving professional and practical advice to the company.

In Shens case, she wrote that she worked with Internship Union, based in Hangzhou, eastern China. She noted that it has helped hundreds of students come to China and described herself as a positive Asia girl who would welcome friends all over world join us to get a magic Chinese experience. The MI5 notes that she had reached out to Labour MP Josh Simons.

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Reactions from the UK and China

Britains Security Minister Dan Jarvis reacting to the MI5 alert said the government would not tolerate covert and calculated attempts to interfere with the UKs sovereign affairs.

He said that as well as MPs and peers, staff, economists, thinktank employees, consultants and civil servants have all been targeted. I urge all parliamentarians and their staff to be wary that China has a low threshold for what information is considered to be of value, and will gather individual pieces of information to build a wider picture.

Britains Security Minister Dan Jarvis reacting to the MI5 alert said the government would not tolerate covert and calculated attempts to interfere with the UKs sovereign affairs. File image/Reuters

Let me speak plainly. This activity involves a covert and calculated attempt by a foreign power to interfere with our sovereign affairs in favour of its own interests, and this government will not tolerate it.

He also announced that the government would take several steps to try to counter Chinas efforts to spy on government officials and private businesses across the country. He said the government would spend 170 million (Rs 1,976 crore) to upgrade the computer systems in parliament and throughout government to better strengthen the security of the networks.

Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Chinese embassy in the UK dismissed the MI5 warning, saying: These claims by the UK side are pure fabrication and malicious slander. We strongly condemn such despicable moves of the UK side and have lodged stern representations with them.

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We urge the UK side to immediately stop this self-staged charade of false accusations and self-aggrandisement, and stop going further down the wrong path of undermining China-UK relations.

Previous spying allegations against China

The MI5 alert comes in the backdrop of the collapsed China spying case last month. The case against Christopher Cash, a former parliamentary researcher, and Christopher Berry, an academic, who were accused of spying on MPs for Beijing, was abandoned by prosecutors who claimed that the governments evidence was missing a critical element.

According to prosecutors, the government refused to call China an enemy or national security threat and owing to this, the case had to be abandoned. In fact, MI5 chief Ken McCallum had then said Chinese spies posed a daily national security threat to Britain. When it comes to China, the UK needs to defend resolutely against threats and seize the opportunities that demonstrably serve our nation.

The matter resulted in Britains Prime Minister Keir Starmer being severely criticised and accused of prioritising UKs relations with China over its national security.

Protesters hold placards during a demonstration against the proposed site of the new Chinese embassy, outside Royal Mint Court, in London, Britain. File image/Reuters

Moreover, the timing of these new revelations is also significant; the UK government has to announce its decision on approving a new Chinese embassy in London. The decision on the 20,000 square metres site has already been pushed back after Beijing refused to why the plans contained blacked out areas, and critics have long said the planned complex would pose a security issue.

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Alicia Kearns, the shadow security minister, has called on the government to refuse permission for the embassy and said ministers should cancel planned trips to China. What message does it send when, despite an attack on this House and our Parliament, ministers are happily jetting off to stride down red carpets with the government responsible? Kearns said.

With inputs from agencies
Both the US House and Senate acted decisively to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. But there was one lawmaker who refrained from voting in favour of the release, Republican Representative Clay Higgins. He reasoned that the release of the files would reveal and injure thousands of innocent people

Representative Clay Higgins listens to witnesses at the first public hearing of a bipartisan congressional task force investigating the assassination attempts against Republican presidential nominee former President Donald Trump. File image/AP

Both Democrats and Republicans alike readied for a unanimous House vote Tuesday (November 18) to pass a bill to force the release of the case files on the . But in the end, one lawmaker stood alone in opposition: Republican Representative Clay Higgins.

Higgins, who is in his fifth term representing a congressional district in southwest Louisiana, explained in a lengthy statement that he was a principled NO on this bill from the beginning. He raised some of the same objections that House Speaker Mike Johnson, another Louisiana Republican, had with the bill, yet even Johnson said Tuesday he would vote for it because None of us want to go on record and in any way be accused of not being for maximum transparency.

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For Higgins, a fervent Trump supporter and a member of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus, that wasnt a problem.

Higgins gives a reason for his answer

He refused to give in to the building pressure, both within the Republican base and from survivors of Epsteins abuse, to pass the bill, even as both President Donald Trump and Johnson relented in their opposition to the legislation. He said that his concern with the bill was that it reveals and injures thousands of innocent people  witnesses, people who provided alibis, family members, etc."

If enacted in its current form, this type of broad reveal of criminal investigative files, released to a rabid media, will absolutely result in innocent people being hurt, he added.

A statue depicting US President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein holding hands is seen near the US Capitol in Washington, DC. File image/AFP

Higgins suggested he would be open to voting for the bill if the Senate amended it to protect the privacy of those who are named but not criminally implicated." But just hours later, the Senate passed the bill through unanimous consent, leaving Higgins the only lawmaker in Congress on record against the legislation.

Yet Higgins is also no stranger to controversy. As a former law enforcement officer, he faced a series of allegations of misconduct and became politically involved after achieving viral fame by creating brash Crime Stoppers videos. It earned him the nickname from media outlets as Cajun John Wayne," and hes followed up the moniker by challenging people on social media to fights.

In 2020, a social media post by the congressman  promising the use of force against armed protesters  was removed by Facebook for violating the companys violence and incitement policies.

Higgins pressed to subpoena Bill Clinton

In Congress, he chairs the subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee that initiated a subpoena of the Department of Justice for the Epstein case files. But even when Democrats on the subcommittee convinced several Republicans to vote with them to issue the subpoena, Higgins was one of the few who stood opposed. He also pressed to have the subcommittee subpoena former President Bill Clinton.

Ive never handled a subpoena like this. This is some fascinating stuff, Higgins said at the time. On Tuesday, he pointed to the oversight panels work to investigate the governments handling of Epstein, saying that it was being done in a manner that provides all due protections for innocent Americans.

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Last year, Higgins also faced an attempt by Democrats to censure him for racist comments he had made about Haitian immigrants after Trumps own comments about the Haitian community in Springfield, Ohio.

In a social media post, Higgins called Haitians wild. Eating pets, voodoo, nastiest country in the western hemisphere, cults, slapstick gangsters."

But after members of the Congressional Black Caucus, a group of Democratic lawmakers, confronted him about the post, Higgins deleted it and partially walked back the comments, saying they were intended for gang members.

At the time, Johnson defended Higgins, calling him a very frank and outspoken person.

Hes also a very principled man, Johnson added.
Several of the worlds biggest online platforms, including X, Spotify, and ChatGPT, that rely on Cloudflare for security and traffic management, were hit by a major outage, sending large parts of the internet into chaos. The internet infrastructure giants CTO, Dane Knecht, said the disruption was caused by a latent bug'

Internet infrastructure giant Cloudflare for protection and traffic management, were hit by a major outage on Tuesday, sending large parts of the internet into temporary chaos. File image/Reuters

Several of the worlds biggest online platforms, including X, Spotify, ChatGPT and countless other websites that rely on internet infrastructure giant Cloudflare for protection and traffic management, were hit by a major outage on Tuesday, sending large parts of the internet into chaos.

Users across the globe complained about pages refusing to load, apps slowing to a crawl, strange error screens and, in many cases, complete shutdowns. These are services that usually process billions of requests a day, so even a short interruption felt huge.

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As the confusion grew, Cloudflares Chief Technology Officer, Dane Knecht, took to X to explain what had gone wrong. In a detailed post, he broke down how an internal failure, not a cyberattack, spiralled into a worldwide disruption.

Heres what happened

A latent bug triggered the Cloudflare outage

Cloudflares CTO, Dane Knecht, said the disruption was caused by a latent bug, sharing an apologetic explanation on X.

In his post, Knecht wrote, In short, a latent bug in a service underpinning our bot mitigation capability started to crash after a routine configuration change we made. That cascaded into a broad degradation to our network and other services. This was not an attack. The issue had stayed hidden during testing and had never caused trouble before  until now.

Cloudflares CTO, Dane Knecht, said the disruption was caused by a latent bug. File image/ Reuters

Knecht admitted that Cloudflare failed its customers and the broader internet with this outage and said the team is already working to ensure it does not happen again.

I know it caused real pain today, he added, promising a detailed explanation of the incident in a few hours.

In a status page, later Cloudflare claimed that it has fixed the issue and is continuing to monitor for errors.

A fix has been implemented and we believe the incident is now resolved. We are continuing to monitor for errors to ensure all services are back to normal. the company wrote.

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What is a latent bug?

A latent bug is basically a hidden flaw in a system. It can sit quietly for months or even years without causing any visible problems. These bugs are extremely hard to catch because they dont show up during regular testing or everyday use.

Usually, they only reveal themselves when a very rare combination of conditions comes together. When that happens, the bug suddenly surfaces and can trigger unexpected, sometimes widespread, issues.

A latent bug is basically a hidden flaw in a system. These bugs are extremely hard to catch because they dont show up during regular testing or everyday use. File image/ Reuters

In Cloudflares case, the dormant flaw was buried inside a service linked to the companys bot-mitigation tools, which are used to block abusive automated traffic. Under normal circumstances, the bug didnt interfere with anything. But during a routine configuration update, Cloudflare unknowingly created the exact conditions needed to activate it.

Once the service began crashing, the problem quickly spread. The failure did not stay limited to the bot-mitigation subsystem, it transcended into other interconnected systems across Cloudflares network, affecting multiple services.

Why is the Cloudflare outage a big deal

Cloudflare works behind the scenes to make the internet faster and safer.

Information technology professor at the University of Notre Dames Mendoza College of Business, Mike Chapple, says that Cloudflare is a content delivery network that takes content from the worlds websites and mirrors them on thousands of servers worldwide.

One of the main services Cloudflare offers customers is protection from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks, which are designed to knock websites offline.

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When you access a website protected by Cloudflare, your computer doesnt connect directly to that site, Chapple said. Instead, it connects to the nearest Cloudflare server, which might be very close to your home. That protects the website from a flood of traffic, and it provides you with a faster response. Its a win-win for everyone, until it fails, and 20 per cent of the internet goes down at the same time.

The company said it has data centres in 330 cities, and 13,000 networks directly connect to Cloudflare, including every major ISP, cloud provider, and enterprise.

With input from agencies
The long-running fight over the Jeffrey Epstein files has reached a showdown after the United States Congress passed a bipartisan mandate requiring their release. With President Donald Trump now agreeing to sign the bill after months of resistance, we are looking at the most extensive public disclosure in the scandals history

US Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene speaks during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, November 18, 2025, outside the US Capitol in Washington, DC, US. File Image/AP

United States Congress has advanced a bipartisan mandate requiring the public disclosure of all unclassified federal materials tied to the late financier Jeffrey Epsteins criminal investigations.

The rapid momentum in both chambers has created the clearest timeline yet for when the long-sought documents might reach the public domain.

But questions remain over whether newly opened inquiries, sensitive victim material, and internal Justice Department objections could slow the process.

The congressional action follows years of litigation and public speculation surrounding Epsteins connections to prominent individuals and the circumstances of his death in federal custody in 2019.

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With US President Donald Trump now saying he will sign the bill after months of resisting legislative pressure, the nation is on the verge of an unprecedented release of records that span more than a decade of federal scrutiny across Florida and New York.

The vote itself was accompanied by an emotional presence in the US Capitol as approximately two dozen survivors attended the proceedings and watched the final tally from the public gallery.

Moments earlier, many of them had stood outside the building beside bipartisan lawmakers urging Congress to act. They held childhood photographs of themselves  images that represented the ages at which they said they first met Epstein.

One of the survivors, Jena-Lisa Jones, delivered a message directly aimed at the US president.

Please stop making this political, it is not about you, President Trump, she said.

I voted for you, but your behaviour on this issue has been a national embarrassment.

How the Epstein scandal has taken a toll on Trump

The Epstein controversy has remained a rare political vulnerability for Trump, even among his loyal supporters.

Trump socialised with Epstein in the 1990s and early 2000s before, as he has described, experiencing a falling-out. But his past association has continued to draw scrutiny.

During an Oval Office appearance alongside Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, Trump appeared visibly irritated when a reporter asked about the Epstein files.

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He responded sharply, calling the journalist a terrible person and adding that the news network the reporter worked for should have its license revoked.

When asked again about his relationship with Epstein, Trump repeated a claim he has made for years, stating, I have nothing to do with Jeffrey Epstein I threw him out of my club many years ago because I thought he was a sick pervert.

People walk next to a mobile Ad Van that displays a photograph of US President Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, in protest of the visit of US President Donald Trump in Aberdeen, Scotland, UK, July 28, 2025. File Image/Reuters

He has also referred to the ongoing attention on Epstein as a Democratic hoax, despite many prominent Republicans in Congress pushing aggressively for the release.

Public dissatisfaction with Trumps handling of the matter has registered in polling. A Reuters/Ipsos survey released the day before the House vote found his approval rating on the Epstein issue had reached its lowest point of the year, with only one in five Americans expressing support for his approach.

Among Republicans, that figure stood at 44 per cent, demonstrating a rare gap between Trump and his base.

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How the Epstein saga has exposed rifts within the GOP

The internal friction within the GOP became even more visible during the legislative process.

Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, one of Trumps most outspoken defenders on other issues, revealed that the US president had pressured her to reverse her support for the resolution. She said Trump even labelled her a traitor after she refused.

Standing with survivors and lawmakers from both parties, Greene offered her own definition of loyalty. A traitor is an American that serves foreign countries and themselves. A patriot is an American that serves the United States of America, and Americans like the women standing behind me.

Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky emerged as the leading Republican driving the resolution.

On the House floor, he accused the US Justice Department of protecting pedophiles and sex traffickers and told colleagues that accountability would be apparent when there are men, rich men, in handcuffs, being perp-walked to the jail.

Democratic Representative Ro Khanna joined Massie and Greene at the Capitol in support of the bill, reflecting the unusual cross-party cooperation that the effort generated.

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What US authorities will release

Once signed by Trump, the legislation obligates the United States attorney general to make public all unclassified files, records, communications, and investigative materials held by:

The Department of Justice

The Federal Bureau of Investigation

The US Attorneys Offices involved in the Florida and New York cases

The timeline is strict: all records must be released within 30 days of the bill becoming law.

Taken together, the materials reflect more than a decade of federal investigative work, including:

Two major federal cases

Witness interviews

Internal communications

Documents obtained from Epsteins residences

Materials from digital devices

Bank and financial records

Earlier releases from congressional investigations total tens of thousands of pages. The coming tranche is expected to be even larger.

What might be in the Epstein Files

Legal experts say the new disclosures could shed light on Epsteins extensive network of wealthy and influential acquaintances, many of whom interacted with him in business or social settings during the years when allegations against him were escalating.

Columbia Law School professor Daniel Richman noted that a preview published by the House Oversight Committee  emails and texts involving Epstein  suggests the upcoming documents may reveal troublingly close relationships between Epstein and well-known public figures.

However, speaking to CBS News, Richman also pointed out that he believes federal prosecutors would already have pursued any actionable criminal leads with zeal.

He cautioned observers not to expect revelations that would immediately translate into new charges.

Meanwhile, reputational and privacy concerns are intensifying. Former US Treasury Secretary Lawrence Summers recently announced he was stepping back from public commitments as attention focused on emails showing he had sought personal advice from Epstein.

Summers said he was deeply ashamed of my actions and recognize the pain they have caused. The correspondence does not indicate any illegal conduct on his part.

Former Epstein attorney David Schoen warned that the forthcoming disclosure could unfairly damage people who had social or professional contact with Epstein without being involved in wrongdoing.

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My fear is that peoples reputations will be tarnished now because their names appear even though they did nothing wrong, he said.

The records could include:

Emails and texts

Depositions

Travel records

Financial transactions

Digital files from phones and computers

But significant parts of the archive contain highly sensitive materials that complicate public release.

What in the Epstein Files may not be released

An unsigned memo from July by the Justice Department and the FBI outlined the agencies concerns.

The review found that the files contain graphic videos and images of victims who are minors or appear to be minors as well as more than ten thousand downloaded images and videos involving child sexual abuse or other illicit content

The agencies argued that despite efforts to release as much information as possible previously, no further disclosure would be appropriate or warranted.

Their review also directly addressed a persistent public rumour: the existence of a secret client list.

The memo concluded, This systematic review revealed no incriminating client list. We did not uncover evidence that could predicate an investigation against uncharged third parties.

Richman suggested scepticism about the US Justice Departments reasoning, expressing concern that selective withholding could benefit Trumps allies and disadvantage his critics.

How the release timeline could be extended as new questions are raised

US Attorney General Pam Bondi last week had announced that she had requested US Attorney Jay Clayton to open a new investigation  initiated within hours of Trump calling for probes into several prominent Democrats and financial institutions.

This development has raised alarms among lawmakers and attorneys representing survivors.

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Whether the new investigation will delay or block any portions of the release remains unclear. Under the legislation, files tied to ongoing investigations can be exempted.

Once Trump signs the bill, the 30-day countdown begins.

Within that period, unless exemptions are invoked, the US Justice Department must disclose all unclassified records tied to Epsteins federal cases.

But several critical questions remain:

How much will be redacted?

Given the presence of minors in many files, significant portions may be legally required to be withheld or heavily redacted.

Could the new investigation provide a legal basis for delays?

This remains one of the central uncertainties. Federal law allows withholding if material is part of an active case.

Will the release reshape public understanding of Epsteins network?

Experts caution that while the files may reveal close relationships, they may not necessarily indicate new criminal conduct.

How will reputational risks be handled?

Legal and political fallout may continue as names appear in documents without context.

Also Watch:

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With inputs from agencies
Will India extradite Sheikh Hasina to Bangladesh after the International Crimes Tribunal sentenced her to death in the crimes against humanity case? Its unlikely, say experts, pointing to the exceptions in the 2013 India-Bangladesh extradition treaty. But what does the agreement say on this matter?

Ousted Prime Minister of Bangladesh Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death. However, it seems unlikely that India will extradite her. File image/Reuters

On Monday (November 17), Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) sentenced former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for perpetrating crimes against humanity. Its a significant moment for the country  this is the first time that Dhaka has sentenced its leader to the gallows.

But the sentencing of Hasina has also posed a diplomatic quandary for India where the ousted PM is residing since fleeing Dhaka last year following the students uprising. In fact, shortly after the verdict was delivered in court, Bangladeshs interim government made an extradition request to India, with the Bangladesh Ministry of Foreign Affairs saying in a statement, If any country gives shelter to these individuals convicted of crimes against humanity, it will be an extremely intolerant act and a disregard for justice.

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So, what options does India have? Will it extradite Hasina to Dhaka? We explore and get you the answers.

A death sentence and an extradition request

On Monday, the ICT delivered the death sentence to Sheikh Hasina and Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, Bangladeshs former home minister, after nearly five months of hearings. Both Hasina and Kamal were tried in absentia, as they had been living in exile. Hasina escaped to New Delhi after she had been ousted from office after 15 years in power in Bangladesh.

ICTs Judge Golam Mortuza Mozumder told the crowded courtroom that she had been found guilty on three counts and that the court had decided to impose a single punishment which was the sentence of death.

Following the verdict, Bangladeshs Foreign Ministry noted in a statement, We urge the Indian government to immediately hand over these two convicted individuals to the Bangladeshi authorities.

It added that the bilateral extradition treaty marks the transfer of the two convicts as a compulsory responsibility for New Delhi. The ministry also said that granting shelter to individuals convicted of crimes against humanity would be considered an unfriendly act and a disregard for justice.

A man reads a newspaper with the headline about a verdict that sentenced ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death on charges of crimes against humanity for ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters

Indias reaction to Hasinas verdict

India remained non-committal to Bangladeshs extradition request, saying it remains committed to the best interests of the people of the neighbouring country. In a statement, the Ministry of External Affairs noted in a statement, India has noted the verdict announced by the ICT concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country. We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end, it added.

The statement reflects Indias uncertainty on extraditing Hasina, who has been an honoured guest since last August. New Delhi has old ties with the ousted leader and it seems unlikely that it would follow through with Dhakas request.

In fact, Veena Sikri, who served as Indias High Commissioner to Bangladesh from 2003 to 2006, was quoted as telling The Hindu, Let us be clear that so far India has not received a single formal extradition request. A press statement is not a formal request - the process for an extradition is very complex and legal.

As a first step, she said, a formal request would have to include the ICTs Monday order along with all the evidence provided, explaining the legitimacy of the court itself and the trial process details as well.

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The Hindu further reported that once the request is received, the government will have to assess it against its obligations under the 2013 agreement signed by then-Home Minister Sushil Kumar Shinde during a visit to Dhaka.

A demonstrator reacts after the verdict in cases against the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters

The India-Bangladesh treaty in question

The Hasina verdict has shone a spotlight on the India-Bangladesh extradition treaty, which was agreed upon in 2013 to strengthen cooperation in combating crime and terrorism by establishing a system for the reciprocal extradition of offenders.

According to the treaty, an offence qualifies for extradition if it is punishable by at least one year of imprisonment in both India and Bangladesh. This includes not only major crimes like murder, terrorism-related acts, kidnapping, and violent offences, but also financial or revenue offences. Aiding, abetting or participating as an accomplice also qualifies.

However, the 2013 extradition has several exceptions the government could use to defend its grant of refuge to Hasina.

Article 6 of the treaty stipulates that extradition may be refused if the offence is of a political nature. With Hasina ousted by a political uprising and replaced by a Yunus-led interim administration, there are grounds to argue that the accusations, trial, and verdict are inseparable from Bangladeshs political situation.

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Theres also Article 8, which sets out more than six other grounds for the refusal of an extradition request and says that if the accused satisfies the requested state (in this case, India) that the charges are unjust or oppressive or not made in good faith in the interests of justice, the extradition may be denied.

The grounds covered by Article 8 are:

>> The offence is trivial

>> Too much time has elapsed

>> The accusation lacks good faith

>> The offence is purely military in nature

>> The person has been convicted earlier but was not sentenced

A woman dressed in the guise of ousted Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina looks on during a march in Dhaka. File image/AFP

Speaking on the same, south Asian analyst, Michael Kugelman noted on X, The India-Bangladesh extradition treatys political exemption clause relates to political offences, not political personalities. Not easy to argue crimes against humanity is a political offence. So Delhi would likely argue the entire case was political.

Many experts also point to Articles 1 and 2 of the treaty that speaks on dual criminality. What this means is that for the extradition request to be considered valid the offence must be punishable under the domestic laws of both countries.

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Hasina has been found guilty of crimes against humanity in Bangladesh. However, India interprets this crime differently. This opens a possibility for India to turn down the extradition.

And if India refuses Hasinas extradition to Bangladesh, its stance is strengthened by the fact that the ICTs verdict has been questioned by international organisations such as the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (UNHRC), Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International.

The UNHRC said that her sentencing for crimes against humanity marked an important moment for the victims but added that she should not have been sentenced to death. Meanwhile, Human Rights Watch said that while Indian authorities should support accountability efforts in Bangladesh, any extradition request should allow for the individuals who sought to contest the extradition in legal proceedings in India that meets due process standards. No one should be extradited if they would face a trial abroad that does not meet international fair trial standards and could result in the death penalty.

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Additionally, Amnesty International South Asia stated that the trial and the sentencing of Sheikh Hasina was neither fair nor just, while maintaining that those responsible for crimes against humanity in 2024 should be prosecuted. The victims of July 2024 deserve far better. Bangladesh needs a justice process that is scrupulously fair and fully impartial beyond all suspicion of bias and does not resort to order further human rights violations through the death penalty. Only then can genuine and meaningful truth, justice and reparations be delivered, it added.

Images and cartoons related to Bangladeshs ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina are seen pasted on a board inside her former official residence in Dhaka. File image/AFP

Indias other options in the Hasina matter

New Delhi has other options too if it chooses to reject Dhakas extradition request on Hasina.

While it has no official refugee policy, it does have a history of providing shelter to those who request it. For instance, the Dalai Lama was granted refuge in India in 1959. It has also granted refuge to Sri Lankan Tamils in the 80s, to Afghans fleeing the Taliban in 1996, and the Rohingyas from Myanmar in 2010.

Now, its a wait and watch game to see what happens next.

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With inputs from agencies
The solid 18-karat gold toilet by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan was sold for $12.1 million (Rs 106 crore) at the famed Sothebys auction house. Previously displayed at the Guggenheim Museum, it was also offered to US President Donald Trump, who has made no secret of his fondness for gold

A fully functional, solid gold toilet has sold for a whopping $12.1 million at an auction.

The satirical piece labelled America was made by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan, who previously rocked the internet with a controversial banana artwork entitled Comedian. Cattelan is famed for his irreverent works that came at both art itself and institutions.

The solid 18-karat gold toilet sculpture was auctioned off at the famed Sothebys.

What do we know about it?

Lets take a look at the art and the artist

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A solid gold toilet fetches $12.1m

A 101-kilo, fully functional and flushable solid gold toilet was previously put on display at the Guggenheim. It was also offered to US President Donald Trump, who has made no secret of his fondness for gold. The toilet, which made its debut in 2016, comes with a certificate of authenticity signed by the artist, according to Sothebys.

A Sept 16, 2016 file image from a video shows the 18-karat toilet, titled America, by Maurizio Cattelan. (Image: AP)

While awaiting bidders, the Sothebys auctioneer asked, Feeling flush? The artwork was installed in Sothebys New York headquarters for public viewing before the auction.

Cattelan has said that the installation is meant to ridicule excessive wealth in the United States. The artist once humorously remarked, Whatever you eat, a $200 lunch or a $2 hot dog, the result is the same.

He explained that he wanted to place something priceless in the least noble and most necessary place, highlighting the tension between high art and base functionality. The first edition of  America' was exhibited at the Guggenheim in 2016, where visitors were allowed to use it.

Incidentally, another version of the toilet was stolen from Blenheim Palace in 2019. The work, which has not been recovered, is presumed to have been broken up and melted down for its gold.

Before the auction, the toilet was displayed in a bathroom at Sothebys headquarters. However, this time, visitors were not allowed to use it.

Its an incisive commentary on the collision of artistic production and commodity value, Sothebys said in its brochure.

David Galperin, a Sothebys expert, added, We dont want people sitting on the art."

This came after visitors were previously invited to christen it, but not allowed to actually use the toilet while on display.

The collector who owned the gold toilet before the auction has not been publicly identified.

The artist behind the art

Cattelan is known for his thought-provoking installations that redefine the boundaries of contemporary art. His playful yet provocative use of materials and gestures forces commentary and engagement. He first achieved notoriety with La Nona Ora (The Ninth Hour), a wax statue of Pope John Paul II, which was originally exhibited at Kunsthalle Basel in 1999.

In 2019, Cattelans solo exhibition of his major works, including Victory is Not an Option, took place at Blenheim Palace in Oxfordshire, on the night of the opening, America. Then came Cattelans Comedian , a banana that broke the internet in December 2019.

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Artist Maurizio Cattelans piece of art Comedian hangs on display during an auction preview at Sothebys New York. (Image: AP)

The viral sensation immediately sparked stimulating debates and discussions among people of all walks of life about the nature and the value of art. The Italian conceptual artist, has known for his subversive displays, continues to challenge the limits of contemporary value systems through his ironic and humorous works.

With Inputs from agencies
Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity. While Hasina and her supporters have condemned the verdict delivered by the war crimes court in Dhaka, others say it marks an opportunity for the country to finally move on

Former Bangladeshi Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been given the death sentence. Reuters

Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has been sentenced to death for crimes against humanity.

While Hasina and her supporters have condemned the verdict delivered by the war crimes court in Dhaka, others say it marks an opportunity for the country to finally move on

Hasina, who fled to India in August 2024 after being ousted in a student-led uprising, denounced the ruling as biased and politically motivated.

Meanwhile, pressure is mounting on Muhammad Yunus, the Nobel Peace Prize laureate heading the interim government. Yunus is increasingly being pushed to hold elections in February.

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The upcoming election

Bangladeshs new leaders insist they are committed to restoring democracy through the forthcoming election: one from which Hasina and her Awami League have been effectively excluded. But tensions remain high.

The interim government has fully suppressed the Awami League  so the level of polarisation is at a fever pitch, said analyst Michael Kugelman, a senior fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

Awami League spoilers may try to disrupt the election with unrest. And with Bangladeshs police force suffering from serious morale issues, there would be concerns about the states capacity to manage the violence, Kugelman said. Police were on the frontlines of the deadly 2024 crackdown, and some officers were killed when protesters stormed police stations.

The Muhammad Yunus regime has been accused of kowtowing to religious extremists since it came to power after the fall of the Sheikh Hasina government

Hasinas son has warned that the party may attempt to block the election if its political ban is not lifted, stressing that only an inclusive vote can stabilise the country.

India unlikely to extradite

India is unlikely to extradite Hasina , despite fresh requests from Dhaka following Mondays verdict.

Hasina will likely bide her time, continue to manage her partys affairs from India and play a long game with the hope of returning to politics if circumstances change, Kugelman said. In the region, dynastic leaders and their parties may take hits, but they never go away.

Sabir Mustafa, former head of the BBCs Bengali Service, said the Awami League could be seriously demoralised without Hasinas leadership, but that meaningful reform is essential if the party hopes to move forward.

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So Hasina needs to initiate those reforms herself, he said, noting that she must look ahead if she intends to re-enter politics.

Mustafa described the trial as seriously flawed and said the death sentence was unjust for a case heard in absentia. Even so, he believes it will be difficult to mobilise Hasinas supporters on the streets for now.

Without internal reforms and new leadership guided by Hasina, Mustafa argued, an Awami League resurgence will be difficult. Thats the kind of bullet they have to bite, he said.

Mixed reaction to the verdict

Human rights groups and the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights have delivered mixed assessments of the trial and verdict.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International questioned the fairness of the proceedings, while the UN rights body said the verdict was an important moment for victims of last years crackdown, which killed hundredsthough it reiterated its opposition to the death penalty in all cases.

(File) The United Nations headquarters building is pictured with a UN logo in the Manhattan borough of New York City, New York, US, on March 1, 2022. Reuters

Given this, the Yunus administration will need to reassure the international community about the integrity of the judicial process.

For Kugelman, Yunuss most urgent challenge is ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the vote.

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These are high-stakes polls: they represent the first election in nearly 20 years in which there is genuine expectation of a free and fair vote. The January 2024 election, which returned Hasina to power for a fourth consecutive term, was boycotted by opposition parties and marred by violence and international criticism.

Yunuss legacy on the line

Mustafa said Yunus has already tarnished his legacy as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate by presiding over numerous violations, including mob justice, custodial deaths, mass arrests, and the detention of individualsparticularly Hasina supporterswithout credible charges.

Even so, he believes the international community will continue to back the interim leader.

The challenge before him between now and February is to ensure things run smoothly and the elections take place in a peaceful and credible manner, Mustafa said.

He added that with the Awami League barred from the polls, Yunus must ensure the election is not manipulated by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, led by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, or by Jamaat-e-Islami, the countrys largest Islamist party.

Only then can he revive his legacy as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate.

With inputs from agencies
Sheikh Hasina, the former long-time prime minister of Bangladesh, was sentenced to death for crimes against humanity by the International Crimes Tribunal-Bangladesh (ICT-B) on Monday. Hasina, who fled the country in August 2024 after the student-led uprising toppled her regime, remains in India. But many think her trial and death sentence are on weak legal ground. Heres why

News of Sheikh Hasina being sentenced to death by Bangladeshs war crimes court was greeted with surprise and consternation by many in India.

The former long-time Prime Minister of Bangladesh was sentenced to death for crimes against humanity by the International Crimes Tribunal-Bangladesh (ICT-B). Hasina, who fled Bangladesh in August 2024 after the student-led uprising toppled her regime, remains in India.

However, many are wondering if the trial and death sentence itself will hold up legally.

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Lets take a closer look.

The jurisdiction of the ICT-B

Experts are arguing that the International Crimes Tribunal-Bangladesh (ICT-B) itself does not have jurisdiction to conduct the trial of Hasina. The court was created under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973. It was originally set up by Hasina in order to specifically prosecute crimes of genocide committed during the 1971 Liberation War. The court thus has no authority to conduct the trial and deliver such a verdict.

Amendments to the Act

After Hasinas government fell on 5 August 2024, the interim Bangladesh regime of Muhammad Yunus made amendments to the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973 via an ordinance. However, legal experts say this is itself considered invalid ab initio (void from the beginning) because no constitutionally appointed executive was appointed and thus lacked the authority to do so under Article 93 of the Constitution.

Bangladesh interim advisor Mohammad Yunus.

Moreover, Parliament could not approve it because it had been dissolved. This too has a problem because Parliament was dissolved as a response to these street protests rather than under the constitutionally mandated procedures. This poisons all the legal and judicial acts going forward.

How ICT-B judges were appointed

The appointment of the judges who passed the verdict on Hasina is also an issue. Days after Hasinas government fell in August 2024, a student mob surrounded Bangladeshs Supreme Court and demanded the resignation of the Chief Justice and five Appellate Division judges.

The appointment of the three judges who headed up ICT-B was irregular to say the least and unconstitutional at the worst. For example, retired District Judge Chairman Justice Golam Mortuza Majumder was promoted to the High Court Division just six days before the tribunal announced it would hear the case.

Meanwhile, Justice Mohitul Haque Mohammed Enam Chowdhury, another retired District and Sessions Judge, and Justice Shafiul Alam Mahmud, a practising lawyer, were both made permanent High Court judges without having served the mandatory two-year probationary period under Article 98 of the Bangladesh Constitution. Even more importantly, none of the three ICT-B judges has had any experience with international criminal law  which is a prerequisite to judging cases where crimes against humanity and genocide are alleged.

There are also reports that nearly two dozen judges thought to be sympathetic to the Jamaat-e-Islami were irregularly promoted to the High Court within a year. Mahmud himself is said to have run for and won a Supreme Court Bar Association seat in affiliation with the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP) panel, which opposes the Awami League and spurs questions of potential bias involved during the hearing.

Questions are also being raised about the compressed timeline of the hearing. The ICT judges in November 2024, just two months after the plaint against Hasina was filed, ordered the probe to be completed within 30 days. This yet again gives rise to the suspicion that both the charges and the verdict in Hasina were predetermined even prior to the trial being held.

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Appointment of the prosecution

Questions are also being raised about the makeup of the prosecutorial team. Chief Prosecutor Mohammed Tajul Islam previously served as the main defence lawyer for numerous Jamaat-e-Islami leaders convicted of war crimes during the 1971 Liberation War.

That verdict was delivered by the same tribunal during Hasinas reign. Similarly, British barrister Toby Cadman, who also defended the Jamaat leaders, was appointed Special Adviser to the Chief Prosecutor. This in turn raises questions about whether the true goal of the trial was to achieve justice or merely payback.

Hasina not afforded an adequate defence

Hasina was also denied a lawyer of her choice, as is the right of any defendant. This is a point she repeatedly made from India. The state-appointed defence lawyer, Md Amir Hossain, has no experience in international criminal law. Perhaps even more glaringly, he did not even bother trying to contact Hasina.

I did not attempt to (communicate with Sheikh Hasina). There is no provision allowing such an attempt They also did not try to contact me, nor did they provide any form of assistance, Hossain said. Hossain was also assigned to defend then Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan.

Meanwhile, senior Supreme Court lawyer ZI Khan Pannas offer to represent Hasina in the ICT in August 2025 was rejected by the tribunal out of hand.

Muhammad Tajul Islam, chief prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) briefs the media after the verdict on charges of crimes against humanity for a deadly crackdown on student-led protests in 2024 against the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, in Dhaka, Bangladesh. Reuters

Hossain also requested access to the prosecution evidence, which comprised thousands and thousands of pages, on 25 June 2025. This was just weeks before the trial began. Despite this, Hossain also did not request any additional time to prepare for the hearing.

The state lawyer received the full set of prosecution evidence only on 25 June 2025, about five weeks before trial. Despite voluminous evidence, no request for additional preparation time was filed, leading legal analysts to question the seriousness of defence attorneys.

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The prosecutors also successfully managed to prevent cross-examination of prosecution witnesses when they made contradictory statements. This was under a 2013 Appellate Division ruling in the Abdul Quader Mollah case. Ironically, the prosecutors, including Chief Prosecutor Tajul Islam himself, had strenuously argued against doing so in the trial of the Jamaat leaders.

Hossain after the trial also announced he could not file an appeal because his clients, including Hasina, are absconding. If they are arrested or surrender before the tribunal, only then can an appeal be filed, he said. He also added that he was not given a copy of the verdict, which goes against the principles of natural justice.

Questions are also being raised about how brief the trial, which lasted from 2 August to 23 October, was given the length and breadth of the claims against Hasina.

Prejudicial remarks from the government

Even before the trial against Hasina commenced, a number of figures within the government made prejudicial remarks against her.

This includes Chief Prosecutor Islam, who said on 17 October 2024, The court has ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and to produce her in court on 18 November. Sheikh Hasina was at the helm of those who committed massacres, killings and crimes against humanity from July to August. It is a remarkable day for us.

Meanwhile, IT Adviser Nahid Islam added on 21 October 2024, I want to tell everyone that Hasina will not be able to return to Bangladesh to do politics, but only to walk the gallows.

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The court, prior to the trial, also ordered Bangladeshi outlets not to disseminate any remarks from Hasina  which only further adds to the prejudice against her.

People stand outside the International Criminal Court (ICC), in The Hague, Netherlands. Reuters

Though Bangladesh remains party to the Rome Statute, the interim Yunus government did not take the case to the International Criminal Court. This would no doubt have shone a light on the myriad deficiencies of the proceedings against Hasina.

From the above statements and the facts, it is clear that Hasina was in no way accorded a free and fair trial  rendering the verdict illegal and patently unconstitutional.

Most experts think there is no chance of India extraditing Hasina to Bangladesh. This, despite Dhaka reaching out to New Delhi in the aftermath of the verdict to do so. Hasina herself has dismissed the trial and the verdict, which she can appeal within 30 days to the Bangladesh Supreme Court, as baseless and political.

With inputs from agencies

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Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, who also serves as the universitys chancellor and a founding trustee of the Al Falah Trust, was arrested on Tuesday following extensive raids by the Enforcement Directorate (ED)

Delhi blast case: Beyond the Al-Falah University, Jawad Ahmad Siddiquis footprint extends across at least 15 companies involved in education, software, agribusiness and research, which are now under scanner. Image courtesy: News18

In a significant development in the money laundering investigation tied to Al Falah University and the November 10 Red Fort blast, a Delhi court has remanded Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, Chairman of the Al Falah Group, to Enforcement Directorate (ED) custody for 13 days, until December 1.

Siddiqui, who also serves as the universitys chancellor and a founding trustee of the Al Falah Trust, was arrested on Tuesday following extensive raids by the intelligence agency.

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The ED launched coordinated searches at 19 locations across Delhi-NCR early Tuesday morning, seizing Rs 48 lakh in cash. The operationsbeginning around 5:15 amfocused on premises linked to trustees and promoters of Faridabad-based Al Falah University, which is now at the centre of allegations involving large-scale financial misconduct and possible ties to suspects connected with the deadly Red Fort car explosion that killed 15 people.

Security forces cordoned off the Al Falah Trust office in Delhis Okhla area as ED teams conducted hours-long searches. Officials say preliminary findings indicate that the trust, established in September 1995 with Siddiqui as a managing trustee, diverted substantial funds into businesses run by his family members. Investigators claim that construction and catering contracts were repeatedly awarded to companies controlled by Siddiquis wife and children.

The ED also reported unearthing at least nine shell companies registered at a single addressan indicator, it says, of systematic layering used to obscure the flow of illicit funds. The agency has described the Al Falah Groups rise since the 1990s as meteoric but unsupported by legitimate financial sources.

Adding to the controversy, a Delhi Police FIR suggests that Al Falah University misrepresented its accreditation status by falsely claiming NAAC approval and UGC recognition under Section 12(B). According to investigators, these claims misled students and parents while enabling the institution to earn substantial revenue.

Financial probes peeled back the layers of the trust and its institutions, exposing irregularities rooted deep within the system.

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The ED told the court that false accreditation claims generated nearly Rs 415 crore in revenue over seven years. Income tax filings showed that between 201415 and 201516, the university declared over Rs 60 crore as donations; from 2016 onward, it reclassified its income as academic revenue. A sharp spike followed: from Rs 24.21 crore in 201819 to Rs 80.01 crore in 202425.

Investigators allege that the university continued collecting full fees from students despite lacking valid accreditationa practice they say amounts to forgery and fraud.

Evidence gathered during the PMLA probe indicates that student fees were siphoned for personal use. Statements from senior officials, including CFO Mohammad Razi, further confirm that all major financial decisions rested with Siddiqui.

The investigation has also uncovered troubling links between Al Falah University and individuals implicated in the Red Fort blast. Dr Umar Nabiwho died in the car explosionand his associates Shaheen Saeed, Muzammil Shakeel, and Adil Rather reportedly worked at the university and are suspected of diverting chemicals from campus laboratories to build the explosive device.

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Also read | What conspired in Room 13 at Al-Falah University ahead of the Delhi blast?

With Siddiqui now in ED custody, officials say the probe into alleged money laundering, financial fraud, and terror financing is expected to intensify in the coming days.

(With inputs from agencies)
Uttar Pradesh ATS and other central intelligence agencies are searching for 19 women linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed operative Dr Shaheen Shahid. ED arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui of Al Falah group for money laundering.

Security officials stand outside a house at Fatehpur Tagga, in Faridabad on the outskirts of New Delhi, following the Red Fort terror attack. File-AP

Investigators from the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), central intelligence agencies and local police are carrying out an extensive search for 19 women from Kanpur and nearby districts who were reportedly in touch with arrested Jaish-e-Mohammed (JeM) operative Dr Shaheen Shahid, according to reports.

Authorities believe the women may have been radicalised or strongly influenced by her speeches, which officials describe as inflammatory and persuasive.

Sources told the Times of India that the ATS expanded its search after uncovering digital material including voice messages, videos, contact lists and follow-up exchanges, suggesting Dr Shaheen had created a systematic outreach network aimed at vulnerable women, particularly those who were isolated, unemployed or dealing with emotional difficulties. Many of these women have turned off their mobile phones, complicating efforts to trace them.

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Investigators are now relying on address verification, tower dump data, bank records and other digital traces to locate them. We will soon identify these women. Once they are questioned, the full extent of Dr Shaheens operations and support structure will emerge, a senior officer involved in the probe told the Times of India.

The November 10 car explosion in Delhi that claimed 15 lives has triggered a sweeping, multi-agency investigation involving the Delhi Police Special Cell, NIA and Crime Branch.

Since the blast, police have checked more than 500 people from Jammu and Kashmir in Faridabad alone as part of heightened security measures.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) on Tuesday said it has arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, chairman of Al Falah group, in a money laundering case.

Siddiqui has been arrested under Section 19 of the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA), 2002. He was arrested following a detailed investigation and analysis of evidence gathered during a search conducted earlier on Tuesday at premises related to the Al Falah group, as part of the ongoing Enforcement Case Information Report (ECIR) recorded by the ED under PMLA in connection with the Al Falah Group.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has intensified its probe into Al-Falah University by expanding it to the financial operations of the Al-Falah Trust, its associated firms, and the personnel managing the institutions administrative and financial systems.

The Al Falah University has come under scrutiny after the arrest of several doctors in connection with the November 10 blast near Delhis Red Fort, which killed 15 people and injured many others. The suicide bomber, Dr Umar Un Nabi, a Kashmiri resident, was associated with the varsity.

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ED initiated an investigation against the Al Falah group on the basis of two FIRs registered by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police, based on the allegations that Faridabad-based Al-Falah University has made fraudulent and misleading claims of National Assessment Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation with an intention to deceive students, parents, and stakeholders for wrongful gain.

It has been further mentioned in FIR that Al-Falah University has falsely claimed University Grants Commission (UGC) recognition under Section 12(B) of the UGC Act, 1956, with an oblique motive to cheat the aspirants, students, parents, guardians, stakeholders and general public to gain wrongfully and cause wrongful loss to them.

The UGC clarified that Al-Falah University is included only under Section 2(f) as a State Private University, has never applied for inclusion under Section 12(B), and is not eligible for grants under that provision.

Al-Falah Charitable Trust was constituted by a public charitable trust deed dated September 8, 1995, with Jawad Ahmad Siddiqui named as one of the first trustees and designated as the Managing Trustee, the ED said.

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All the educational institutions (university and colleges) are ultimately owned and financially consolidated under this trust, which is effectively controlled by Jawad Ahmad Siddiqui. The entire Al-Falah group has seen a meteoric rise since the 1990s, metamorphosing into a large educational body. However, the rise is not backed by adequate financials."

ED has conducted search operations at 19 locations in Delhi earlier in the day on Tuesday, including the premises of Al Falah University and residential premises of key persons of the Al Falah group.

ED said its investigation has revealed that large amounts of proceeds of crime have been generated. Evidence reveals that crores of rupees have been diverted by the trust to family-owned entities."

With inputs from agencies
With the deal signed with the GE for engines, the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is expected to deliver eight of 97 Tejas Mark 1A (Mk1A) fighter planes in the next 24-36 months.

Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) Tejas Mark 1A, a light combat aircraft, takes off ahead of its maiden flight at HAL Nashik, India, on October 17, 2025. (Photo: Francis Mascarenhas/Reuters)

The Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) will deliver eight Tejas Mark 1A (Mk1A) fighter planes in the next 24-36 months, according to Moneycontrol.

In later years, production will ramped up to increase annual numbers delivered to the Indian Air Force (IAF).

The Government of India has placed two orders with the HAL for Tejas Mk1A, which is a higher variant of Mk1. At least 40 Mk1 have entered service with the IAF.

In the first tranche, the GoI ordered 83 Mk1A in 2021. In the second tranche, the GoI ordered 97 Tejas Mk1A in September. The deliveries for the first tranche were supposed to start last year but the HAL has said it would be able to deliver only six by March 2026  the HAL should have been nearing the halfway mark by March 2026 as per the original timeline of delivery (2024-28). The deliveries in the second tranche are yet to start.

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The HAL has said that the main issue in production and delivery has been problematic procurement of engines from General Electrics (GE). But engine deliveries are expected to stabilise soon and production is expected to get steady.

Moneycontrol reported that the HAL signed an agreement to procure 113 F404-GE-IN20 engines for the second tranche of Mk1A fighters on November 7.

The initial delivery cycle will remain modest as HAL stabilises its production line, a senior government source told Moneycontrol.

Cost negotiations had delayed finalisation of the engine contract, the source said.

HAL and GE had to align on escalating costs before locking the supply roadmap. The first phase is naturally slower. That has pushed the early aircraft deliveries into a eight-unit window over 2436 months, the source said.

Deliveries to take 7 years

The second tranche of 97 Tejas Mk1A aircraft will be delivered over the next seven years, according to Moneycontrol.

But considering the first six planes from the first order signed in 2021 are yet to delivered, there are questions whether such an optimistic timeline is feasible.

Internal delivery charts accessed by Moneycontrol have shown that three major tranches of 24 Mk1A planes each will begin rolling out sequentially after months 37, 49, and 61, and a final tranche of 12 planes is scheduled to be delivered by late 2031 through late 2032  effectively seven years after signign the deal.

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Once the line reaches steady rhythm, three full blocks of 24 jets each will move out almost back-to-back. The final 12-unit batch will close the Mk1A order around the seventh year. After that, deliveries for additional variants can be slotted, an official told Moneycontrol.

The official further said that engine quantities have been structured keeping lifecycle requirements in mind.

The engines have a defined shelf life. After that they need replacement, which is why 113 engines have been contracted for now. Further engine orders will be placed as the fleet expands, the officer added.
A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran shed light on major inconsistencies in the implementation of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 (THOTA), particularly its 2011 amendments

The Supreme Court of India issued a set of directions on Tuesday to the union and state governments aimed at tightening Indias organ transplantation framework and addressing disparities in how states regulate organ donation.

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai and Justice Vinod Chandran shed light on major inconsistencies in the implementation of the Transplantation of Human Organs and Tissues Act, 1994 (THOTA), particularly its 2011 amendments.

The top court noted that while the 1994 Act, formulated after extensive consultation, was ratified by all States and listed under Entry 6 of the State List of the Constitution, several States have yet to adopt the 2011 amendments and associated regulations intended to streamline transplant procedures.

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The CJI observed that Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Manipur have not yet adopted the revised rules while Andhra Pradesh was yet to implement the 2011 amendments. The court acknowledged progress in Karnataka, which passed a resolution on August 21, 2025.

We therefore request all the States who have not implemented the rules to take into consideration importance of the issue and adopt the act and the rules, the court said.

The Bench also expressed concern over regions such as Manipur, Nagaland, and the Andaman & Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep, which still lack State Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisations (SOTOs), bodies crucial to the national transplantation framework.

We request Union to take on board all States and evolve guidelines for donor welfare including live donors and to ensure they are cared for. To ensure commercialisation and exploitation of donors does not happen, the court added.

Highlighting inconsistencies in organ allocation, the bench stressed that disparities exist across caste and gender lines. It is submitted that in the absence of a national policy, transplants cannot be done even if donors are available, the court said.

It directed the union to set up SOTOs in Manipur and Nagaland and instructed the Secretary of Public Health to personally oversee compliance. It also called for model allocation criteria to address caste and gender disparities, along with uniform donor standards nationwide.

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To protect live donors, the court asked the Union government to draft guidelines in consultation with the National Organ and Tissue Transplant Organisation (NOTTO) and the petitioner. It also instructed amendments to birth and death certificate forms to record brain death and whether families were given the option to donate organs.

We request Union in consultation with NOTTO and petitioner organisation to amend forms 4 and 4A of birth and death so that it shows if death was due to brain death and if yes then if option to donate organ was given or not, the court directed.

The hearing also touched upon organised crime in organ procurement.

CJI Gavai noted that Justice Chandran had warned him about mafias operating when roadside accidents happen. Solicitor General Tushar Mehta referenced the Malayalam film Joseph and its Hindi remake Apne, which show organ trafficking rings exploiting accident victims.
Tejas, the Light Combat Aircraft, a single-engine, delta-wing, multi-role supersonic fighter jet of the Indian Air Force and Navy, stole the spotlight at the Dubai Air Show 2025.

Amid the roar of jet engines and the buzz of innovation, Indias Tejas fighter jet carved through the skies with precision, power and breathtaking agility at the Dubai Air Show (DAS) 2025, quickly becoming one of the most talked-about attractions. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) captured global attention with its impressive scale model of the Tejas Mk2 Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), which drew widespread praise as the event opened to thousands of visitors. With intense international interest and a packed opening day, organisers hailed the show as the biggest aviation showcase of the year.

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Indias Minister of State for Defence, Sanjay Seth, led the Indian delegation to the Dubai Air Show, held from November 17-18 in the United Arab Emirates, the Ministry of Defence said in an official statement. The Indian Air Force participated with the Suryakiran Aerobatic Team and the LCA Tejas, both of which arrived at Al Maktoum Airbase on Saturday, November 15, 2025, according to the Indian Air Force Media Co-ordination Centre (IAF-MCC).

Indias indigenous LCA emerged as a major crowd magnet throughout the event. A video of its manoeuvres has since surfaced online, making waves on social media.

Watch the video here:

#WATCH | Dubai Air Show | LCA Tejas Mk 1A performs Aerobatics in Dubai Air Show 2025 held at Al Maktoum International Airport. pic.twitter.com/SD94MfZwPE  ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

Tejas wows visitors with aerial manoeuvres and static presence

In the skies, the fighter aircraft demonstrated a series of complex manoeuvresincluding loops, Vertical Charlie and barrel rollsdisplaying its agility and capability before an international audience. On the ground, its static display continued to draw visitors eager to take photographs and view the aircraft up close.

The display also provided attendees with the chance to see the fighter that contributed to Indias dominance over Pakistan during Op Sindoor. Tejas strong presence, both airborne and on display, reinforced Indias visibility and impact at this years global aviation gathering.

The Dubai Air Show, hosted biennially, featured more than 1,500 exhibitors and over 148,000 industry professionals from 150 countries. This years edition included leading global aerospace companies such as Bombardier, Dassault Aviation, Embraer, Thales, Airbus, Lockheed Martin and Calidus.
The case was filed after the teenagers uncle brought him to the police, stating that the boy had made the claims upon returning from the UK

Kerala police have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) after a 16-year-old boy alleged that his mother and her friend attempted to radicalise him and encouraged him to join the Islamic State (Isis).

The case was filed after the teenagers uncle brought him to the police, stating that the boy had made the claims upon returning from the United Kingdom.

According to investigators, the boy had been living in the UK with his parents before being brought back to Kerala recently. It was during his stay with relatives that he reportedly confided in his uncle, alleging that his mothers friend had shown him Isis-related videos and urged him to join the terror outfit, as reported by CNNnews18. The teenager also claimed that his mother, a nurse working in the UK, was aware of these conversations.

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Police officials said the uncle immediately approached local authorities, following which a formal complaint was registered. The statements made by the minor are serious in nature. We have registered a case under relevant sections of the UAPA and initiated a detailed investigation, a police officer told reporters.

However, the boys mother has strongly denied the allegations. In her statement to the police, she said the complaint stemmed from a long-running marital dispute and accused her estranged husband of using the child to frame her. The couple has been separated for some time, and she claimed that the allegations were fabricated to gain leverage in the dispute.

Police officials said they are examining all angles, including the possibility of family conflict influencing the claims. We need to investigate all allegations thoroughly. At this stage, no conclusions can be drawn, an officer said.

The investigation will include verification of the boys statements, digital evidence, and communication records, officials added. Police are also expected to question the mothers friend, who has been named in the complaint.

Authorities said that, given the involvement of a minor and the sensitivity of terror-related charges, the probe will proceed with caution. Further action will depend on the findings of the initial inquiry.

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What began as a comment on student choices has exploded into a wider debate on how Indias youth want to shape their future

Zoho co-founder Sridhar Vembu has ignited controversy on social media by urging young entrepreneurs to marry and have kids in their 20s and not keep postponing it. In a post on X, he framed this as a demographic duty to society and their own ancestors, acknowledging: I know these notions may sound quaint or old-fashioned but I am sure these ideas will resonate again.

Vembus comments came in response to remarks by entrepreneur Upasana Konidelavice-chairperson of Apollo Hospitals CSR and spouse of actor Ram Charanwho said that during her interaction with IIT Hyderabad students, more men raised their hands, than the women! when asked, How many of you want to get married?

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Reflecting on her observation, she added: The women seemed far more career-focused !!!! This is the new  Progressive India. Set your vision. Define your goals. Own your role. And watch yourself become unstoppable.

The post triggered a wave of reactions. Some users challenged Vembus stance by pointing to economic constraints:

Its not a demographic crisis. Its an economic one. Fix that, and hands will rise on their own.

Vembu fired back: But even people who can afford to are not marrying and having kids. That is cultural.

Others warned that early parenthood could hinder careersparticularly for women. One user argued: Yes, I would love to have children above all. BUT that alone is not my sole purpose in life.

To that, Vembu replied with a broader perspective on success and age.

Life is not a race. There is plenty of opportunity to excel at any age, and 30 is a new beginning for many people If I were to look at life as a race, I have failed compared to Mark Zuckerberg. I have to thank my mother for this perspective on life, he said.

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Some voices sided with Vembu. Entrepreneur Kishore Sahasranaman, for instance, said early family life can be a stabilising force.

Family isnt distraction; its the anchor. Navigating a startup journey is much sustainable when you have that support system built early on," said Sahasranaman.

But sceptics pointed to real risks too. One user questioned: What do you say to the ones who tried that, had 3 kids by 28 and are now divorced, broke, and watching their less encumbered peers lap them in wealth and impact Mr Vembu?

Vembu responded by challenging societal norms around age and success: Lets assume all that happened by 28. Do you know that Larry Ellison only got started at 31? Entrepreneurs who are older are more likely to succeed? There is plenty of time after 28.
While China has warned of serious consequences and may impose sanctions, the US frames the sale as a necessary sustainment measure for existing aircraft rather than an escalation

On October 13, 2025, the US approved the sale to Taiwan of spare parts for fighter jets and other aircraft for $330 million. The US has said that the proposed sale would improve Taiwans capability to meet current and future threats by maintaining the operational readiness of its fleet of F-16, C-130, and other aircraft. The US is bound by its Taiwan Relations Act of 1979 to provide Taiwan with arms of a defensive character.

This was the first such transaction since President Donald Trump took office in January. It would be recalled that when Trump and Chinese President Xi met late last month in South Korea in an effort to secure a trade deal, there were fears that for securing the trade deal, there could be some sort of selling out of Taiwans interests by Trump to Xi. It would also be recalled that in September this year Trump had declined to approve $400 million in military aid to Taiwan while negotiating on trade and a potential summit with the Chinese President.

Naturally, Taiwan has welcomed the proposed US arms sales and expressed gratitude for it, viewing them as crucial for enhancing its self-defence capabilities against Chinas military threats. Taiwans Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo stated that Taiwan is sincerely grateful to the US government for its unwavering commitment to continue the policy of normalising arms sales to Taiwan, strengthen the cooperative security relationship between Taiwan and the US, and support Taiwan in enhancing self-defence capabilities and resilience.

However, China has expressed anger. A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson stated that the move seriously violates the one-China principle and warned that China will take all necessary measures to defend its sovereignty. The Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said that the Taiwan question is the core of Chinas interests and that it is a red line that must not be crossed in China-US relations, adding that the arms sales would send a gravely wrong signal to Taiwans separatist forces.

China claims Taiwan as its own territory and has not ruled out the use of force to take control of the island. On the other hand, Taiwans government strongly objects to Beijings sovereignty claims and says that only Taiwans people can decide their future. In this background, the potential for escalation is a constant concern for the region, and US policy becomes an important factor.

Taiwan was not part of the Peoples Republic of China (PRC) from the beginning. The PRC was established in 1949 after the Chinese Civil War, while the government of the Republic of China (ROC) retreated to Taiwan, which has been the ROC governments effective jurisdiction ever since. The ROC had previously governed mainland China before the war, and prior to that, Taiwan had been a Japanese colony from 1895 to 1945, having been returned to ROC administration after World War II.

Americas policy toward Taiwan is defined by strategic ambiguity, as the US deliberately does not state whether it would intervene militarily if China attacked Taiwan. This ambiguity is intended to deter China from attacking and to prevent Taiwan from unilaterally declaring independence. Even though the US does not formally recognise Taiwan as an independent state, it maintains unofficial ties through organizations like the American Institute in Taiwan (AIT), which functions as a de facto embassy. The Taiwan Relations Act (TRA), passed by the US Congress in 1979, mandates that the US provide Taiwan with defensive arms and maintain the capacity to resist any resort to force that would jeopardize Taiwans security.

The US acknowledges Beijings position that there is one China and that Taiwan is part of China. However, the US does not explicitly endorse Beijings claim of sovereignty over Taiwan. The US has increased military cooperation with Taiwan, though it does not have a permanent military presence there. This cooperation includes joint exercises and training, with small numbers of American military personnel sometimes present on the island in an advisory capacity. A core part of US policy is to provide Taiwan with arms of a defensive character. While Washington maintains that these sales support Taiwans defence and are part of a long-standing policy, military sales remain a recurring source of friction in the already complex US-China relationship.

China has been conducting war drills near Taiwan. The drills have included naval and air force patrols, as well as simulated strikes on key Taiwanese infrastructure. China states that the drills are a stern warning against what it views as separatism. The drills also serve to demonstrate capabilities for a potential blockade or invasion. Recent drills have involved sending numerous military aircraft, warships, and coast guard vessels to surround Taiwan. Some exercises have included long-range live-fire drills practicing precision strikes on Taiwanese targets such as ports and energy facilities. Therefore, US sales of jet and other aircraft parts significantly help Taiwan by enabling it to maintain the operational readiness of its air force, bolster its air defences, and strengthen its self-defence capabilities against potential aggression from China.

Chinas threat to Taiwan is serious, driven by Beijings goal of reunification and a rapidly modernising military. Chinas posturing toward Taiwan is one of increasing military, diplomatic, and economic coercion, asserting its claim of sovereignty while preparing for potential forceful unification. Beijing views Taiwan as a breakaway province and has not ruled out the use of force to achieve its goal of reunification, a goal President Xi Jinping considers an inevitable requirement.

China has significantly escalated its military pressure, conducting frequent and large-scale military exercises resembling dress rehearsals for an invasion around the island. These actions include regular incursions of Peoples Liberation Army (PLA) aircraft and naval vessels into Taiwans air defence identification zone (ADIZ) and across the Taiwan Straits median line, which China no longer formally recognises.

Drills in May and October 2024, titled Joint Sword, simulated a full-scale blockade and precision strikes on key targets. Beijings efforts are to normalise a high tempo of military activity, creating a new normal in the Strait to wear down Taiwans defences and reduce its warning time for a real attack. This involves systematic preparation of military and civilian infrastructure for a potential cross-strait operation, including developing amphibious landing capabilities using civilian ferries and stockpiling resources.

The Taiwan issue is also a major source of tension between Japan and China, with recent events demonstrating a significant escalation in diplomatic and security friction. Taiwan is located just over 110 km from Japanese territory, and key maritime trade routes critical to Japans economy run through the area. A conflict in the Taiwan Strait is viewed by Japan as a direct threat to its own national security, potentially a survival-threatening situation.

While officially maintaining strategic ambiguity and hoping for a peaceful resolution, some Japanese leaders have stated that Japan could not stand by if China invaded Taiwan, suggesting potential military involvement alongside the United States. This view is often described as a Taiwan emergency is a Japan emergency. China, which claims Taiwan as its territory and has not ruled out the use of force for reunification, views any Japanese involvement as gross interference in its internal affairs and a challenge to its core interests. Beijing has issued stern warnings, with its military cautioning Japan of a crushing defeat if it intervened militarily.

Comments by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, suggesting that Japan could use its self-defence forces in the event of a Chinese attack, led to an intense war of words, diplomatic protests, and the summoning of ambassadors by both sides in November 2025. A Chinese diplomat even made an inflammatory social media post that was interpreted as a physical threat to the Japanese Prime Minister, further worsening relations.

Thus, Japans security concerns over a potential Taiwan conflict clash directly with Chinas sovereignty claims, creating a volatile dynamic that significantly heightens tensions between the two regional powers. The issue touches on existing historical grievances between the two nations, which remain a sensitive point in bilateral relations and add to the current friction.

Taiwan is economically crucial to the US and the world, primarily due to its dominance in the global semiconductor industry, producing most of the worlds advanced chips essential for modern technology. Its importance extends to other supply chains for goods like apparel and bicycles, and it is a significant trading partner for the US and many other countries. America sees Taiwan as a secure and trusted partner in diversifying supply chains away from China, particularly for advanced technology products.

Taiwans role as a global leader in advanced semiconductor manufacturing makes its production critical for economies worldwide. The disruption of these chips would affect the supply of numerous technologies globally. Beyond semiconductors, Taiwan is a key player in other high-tech supply chains for a variety of products, making it an indispensable link in the global economy. Taiwan is a significant trading partner for many nations, with major exports including electronics, metals, plastics, and chemicals. Its key export markets include China, the US, Japan, and other Southeast Asian and European countries.

Taiwan is also an important trading partner for India, with their bilateral trade growing steadily, reaching around $11.78 billion in 2024-2025. Indias imports from Taiwan are crucial, especially for items like semiconductors, electronics, precision machinery, and solar cells. Over 300 Taiwanese companies have invested in India, creating around 200,000 jobs across various sectors like IT, electronics, and machinery. The partnership is evolving beyond just trade to encompass technology, manufacturing, and innovation. Taiwans advanced manufacturing expertise is seen as complementary to Indias large consumer market and industrial goals.

Summing up, the US sale of aircraft parts to Taiwan will likely strain US-China relations, increasing tensions as China views such sales as interference in its internal affairs and a threat to regional stability. The sale will improve Taiwans ability to maintain its existing fleet of F-16 and C-130 aircraft, bolstering its self-defence capabilities. While China has warned of serious consequences and may impose sanctions, the US frames the sale as a necessary sustainment measure for existing aircraft rather than an escalation. The issue is a core flashpoint that requires careful diplomatic management by both sides to prevent miscalculation.

(The writer is a retired Indian diplomat and had previously served as Ambassador in Kuwait and Morocco and as Consul General in New York. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
The grand old party is outsourcing excuses for electoral failures instead of introspecting, revealing a leadership that has lost the pulse of the nation

My mother passed away in 2003. During the ongoing special intensive revision (SIR) in West Bengal, we discovered that her name has not yet been struck off the 2002 voter list. My brother, who moved to Bangalore a few years later, and subsequently cast his ballot in Karnataka, is still listed as a voter in the 2002 list. Amid a tsunami of allegations and counter-allegations over voter lists, I thought Id start with a personal anecdote that shows why a revision of the electoral rolls is an urgent necessity.

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Name deletions based on legal criteria such as death, migration, or duplication is the very bedrock of electoral democracy. Failure to do so is a dereliction of duty on the part of the Election Commission of India. It is therefore mystifying why the Congress party accuses the constitutional body of hatching a sinister design to destroy democracy and Opposition parties for doing the very job that the ECI is mandated to perform. Surely, it cant be the Congress partys argument that removal of non-existent voters is a blow to its electoral fortunes.

One of the key indicators of a robust democratic political system is the sanctity of the electoral process. Demographic shifts due to migration, deaths, and urbanisation often distort existing electoral rolls. It interferes with the integrity of the electoral process, leads to potential voter disenfranchisement and casts doubt on electoral legitimacy. The SIR exercise seeks to systematically update voter lists by verifying existing data, inviting public objections and claims, thereby correcting the databases to better reflect the real eligible electorate. It is essential for free, fair, and transparent elections.

So, when the Congress partys top leadership decides in an AICC meeting  that convened on Tuesday  that the ECI is responsible for the partys debacle in Bihar Assembly polls and vows to hold a public rally against the constitutional body in Delhi in the first week of December ( https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/eci-working-on-sinister-design-to-destroy-democracy-opposition-parties-through-sir-congress/article70294736.ece), then it speaks of the grand old partys cynicism, internalisation of defeatism and hopelessness. Politics allows umpteen comebacks, but not for those who abandon hope and confidence.

When the Congress claims that the BJP is weaponising SIR and accuses the ECI of complicity, then it appears that the only Opposition party with a pan-India presence has given up any pretence of a fight. How on earth can a voter list revision load the advantage in favour of any one political outfit in a democracy?

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For instance, in one among many social media posts since the Bihar election results, the Congress claimed  without clarifying its methodology  that a wholesale purge was carried out in the name of SIR to remove poor and vulnerable voters who were suffering under the NDA, and states that 128 seats out of the 202 won by the NDA came purely from SIR-based voter deletions. https://x.com/INCKerala/status/1989545091669569880?s=20

While it is strange that not a single eligible voter whose name was struck off the list lodged a formal complaint or filed an election petition under the Representation of the People Act, 1951, theres a larger puzzle still. Even if we accept for the sake of argument that the ECI conspired to delete the names of poor and vulnerable voters, how did the Congress conclude that it has a monopoly on the votes of the poor and the destitute?

In a paper published in 2021, Poverty, Pandemic and Elections: Analysis of Bihar Assembly Elections 2020, Professors Mudit Kapoor and Shamika Ravi focus on the 2020 Bihar election results. Combining elections data with wealth data to study the effect of poverty on election outcomes, the researchers find that poverty was the key driving factor, over and above female voters as determinants. The results show that the poor were more likely to support the NDA. The study also finds a striking feature in Muslim populations voting preferences that go against popular narrative. The results strongly show that the NDA was more likely to win in constituencies with a higher proportion of Muslim population https://arxiv.org/pdf/2012.06192

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The findings of this paper throw into doubt the very premise of Congresss claims. It also shows the partys striking inability to reflect on dismal performances and a deep reluctance to launch an honest investigation into the reasons behind its series of losses.

Since 2009, when Rahul Gandhi started taking active interest in politics, the Congress Party has lost 71 out of 83 assembly elections across India. There were Congress-ruled governments in 11 states in 2014. Right now, that number has shrunk to three, including tiny Himachal Pradesh.

Since 2024, when Rahul Gandhi took over as the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, the Congress party has lost five out of six assembly elections  getting beaten in Assam, Haryana, Maharashtra, Delhi and Bihar.

After each defeat, Congress has sunk deeper and deeper into conspiracy theories and denialism. It finds fault with either EVMs (but not when it turns out to be the winner) or revision of voter rolls. It now has a problem with the first-past-the-post system, with many within the partys ecosystem wondering how the same vote share in 2020 gets a party more seats in 2025!

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It finds conspiracy in migrants returning home, in pre-poll alliance sweeping to victory. At every step of the way, the Congress gives the impression of a political outfit that has lost the stomach for a fight and is outsourcing the reasons behind its defeat because it is unable or unwilling to admit the real issue  a leadership that has lost the pulse of the nation.

Contrast the Congresss reaction with that of the BJP after defeats. Contrary to the popular narrative, the BJP is not an election winning machine. It is better at learning from mistakes.

The saffron outfit suffered a reverse in Karnataka but did not blame the EVM for its defeat. The below par result in 2024 Lok Sabha polls saw the partys top leadership accepting the setback. It went back to the drawing board, launched deep introspection and eventually authored a stunning comeback. What the BJP did not do is blame the voters for failing to achieve its target of a simple majority. The BJP was wiped out in 2015 when Arvind Kejriwals AAP bagged 67 of the 70 seats. The BJP picked up the pieces, fought hard on issues and eventually returned to power in Delhi after 27 years. The saffron outfit has been serially unsuccessful in dislodging Mamata Banerjee in West Bengal, but not for want of trying.

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Along with ideological clarity, organisational strength, grassroot connect and dynamic leadership, what matters in the rough and tumble of electoral politics is the top leaderships appetite for success. The BJP has an insatiable hunger for success, and a relentless bloody-mindedness to achieve its objectives. During his victory speech after Bihar elections, the prime minister set the target for West Bengal that goes to polls next year. Setting an early objective energises the cadre and keeps them focused on the job at hand.

On the other hand, the Congress party, after its poor show in Bihar where it won just six seats with a dismal 8.71 per cent vote share (down from 9.6 per cent in 2020 when it won 19 seats) has been busy jockeying for and shortlisting candidature for Rajya Sabha seats. As Rasheed Kidwai writes in NDTV, Instead of introspection, accountability and disciplinary action in the wake of the Bihar verdict, the Congress leadership is busy in a certain reward exercise.

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The Gandhi scion seems particularly disinterested in listening to the rare few voices of caution and reason within the party. He ignored appeals from within the partys Bihar unit that tried to impress upon the high command that the decision to make vote chori the centrepiece of the campaign needed a rethink, as the slogan was not resonating on the ground, writes Sourav Roy Barman in The Print.

The Gandhi dynast similarly has no patience to listen to Mumtaz Patel, the daughter of the late Ahmed Patel  the former backroom strategist and crisis manager known for his political acumen and organisational skills. Mumtaz took to X (formerly Twitter) to write, No excuses, No blame game, No introspection, its time to look within and accept reality. Till when will countless loyal ground workers who have stayed with the party through thick and thin wait to see success  instead its failure after failure due to power concentrated in the hands of few who are totally disconnected with ground reality and are responsible for the misery and rout of the grand old party time and again. And mark my words these same people will be rewarded again and again because they have made themselves indispensable with their control and power!! https://x.com/mumtazpatels/status/1989277485171962333?s=20

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The Indian public is not obligated to bring the Congress to power and hand over the reins to Rahul Gandhi. There are no takers for negative politics of relentless allegations. People want to know from political leaders how they can improve their lives, facilitate achievement of their dreams and aspirations. In many respects, Bihar is inching towards becoming a normal state, clawing its way out from the back of beyond.

Leaving behind caste arithmetic and community calculations, the Bihar elections delivered a result of ambition and aspiration  of a people long denied opportunities, expressing their desire to be a part of the India story. The Congress must listen. Voters are saying they are keen to know which political party can offer an even better vision of progress for themselves and for India. They are not ready to be a willing stakeholder in a leaders boutique activism or bottomless cynicism.

(Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.)
All 267 people aboard a South Korean passenger ferry that ran aground off the southwest coast on Wednesday were safely rescued, an incident that rekindled memories of the 2014 Sewol ferry disaster that claimed more than 300 lives

Rescue workers move a passenger rescued from a stranded South Korean ferry carrying about 260 people near a rocky island off Shinan, in Mokpo, South Korea, on Wednesday. Reuters

All 267 people aboard a South Korean passenger ferry that ran aground off the southwest coast on Wednesday were safely rescued, an incident that rekindled memories of the 2014 Sewol ferry disaster that claimed more than 300 lives.

According to a Reuters report, the Coast Guard said all passengers and crew were evacuated from the vessel, with 27 people sustaining minor injuries. Most of those rescued will be transported to the port city of Mokpo, while 21 crew members are expected to remain on board for the time being.

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Coast Guard Commissioner General Kim Yong-jin said a navigational error by the captain or an officer may have caused the grounding, but added that a full investigation would be launched.

President Lee Jae Myung, currently on a visit to the Middle East, ordered real-time public updates on the rescue operation, according to Yonhap News Agency.

Rescue boats deployed

The 26,000-ton ferry Queen Jenuvia 2 was travelling from Jeju Island to Mokpo. The boats Mokpo-based operator, Seaworld Ferry, lists the vessel as having a capacity of 1,010 passengers, as well as lower decks for large vehicles and passenger cars.

A Coast Guard official said the ferry had struck a rocky island near Jindo.

A loud bang had startled passengers during the night, causing panic and confusion, said passenger Kim Namhyun.

I thought I might die. The sound was too loud, Reuters quoted Kim, 51, a diving instructor on Jeju Island, as saying.

But having seen the Sewol ferry, I knew that in situations like this, you have to stay calm, move outside, wear a life jacket, and wait, said Kim, referring to the sinking of the Sewol ferry in 2014.

Footage showed passengers wearing life vests awaiting transfer to rescue boats.

The vessels bow appeared stuck on the edge of a small island, but looked to be upright and the passengers seemed calm. Weather conditions were reported to be fair with light winds.

2014 ferry sinking one of countrys worst disasters

Memories are still fresh in South Korea of the sinking of the Sewol ferry carrying many children on a school trip to Jeju.

The Sewol was sailing from the west coast port of Incheon when it sank near the site of Wednesdays incident, though further off the island of Jindo.

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The ferry, later found to have been overloaded with cargo and illegally modified to carry more than it was designed for, went into a turn too fast and began listing.

It lay on its side as passengers awaited rescue before sinking as the country watched on live television.

Many victims were found in their cabins, where they had been told to wait while the captain and crew members were rescued by the first Coast Guard vessels to arrive at the scene.

With inputs from agencies
Calling Jaishankar her friend, Wong said she looks forward to her meeting with the Indian foreign minister. Among the topics of discussion between the two sides are defence, cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime, security and other areas

India's External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar speaks as Australias Foreign Minister Penny Wong, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stand together at the start of their meeting of the Indo-Pacific Quad at the State Department in Washington, DC., US. File image/Reuters

Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong will travel to India on Wednesday for the 16th Australia-India Foreign Ministers Framework Dialogue. She will also meet External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, the two officials 26th meeting.

My visit continues the high tempo of engagement between our two countries and reflects the ongoing work of the Albanese Government to deepen our relationships and strengthen our resilience, Wong said in a statement ahead of her visit.

Calling Jaishankar her friend, Wong said she looks forward to her meeting with the Indian foreign minister. Among the topics of discussion between the two sides are defence, cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime, security and other areas.

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Our cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects our deepening alignment and shared vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. Together, Australia and India are working bilaterally, through the Quad, and through multilateral institutions to advance our collective security and prosperity, Wong said.

In October, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met Australias Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his visit to Australia and hailed the fillip towards the bilateral relationship.

In a post on X, Rajnath Singh said, Excellent meeting with the Prime Minister of Australia Hon Anthony Albanese in Canberra. He fondly recalled his deep association with India. I am confident that India-Australia bilateral relationship will continue to grow deeper and stronger.

Upon meeting Rajnath Singh, the Australian PM underscored how India and Australias defence partnership is built on trust, shared interests and a commitment to a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.

He expressed delight on meeting Singh, and said on X, Australia and Indias defence partnership keeps getting stronger - built on trust, shared interests and a commitment to a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. Great to meet with the Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on his first trip to Australia for the Inaugural Australia-India Defence Ministers Dialogue.

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Rajnath Singh held a productive meeting with Australias Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles.

The leaders reviewed the full spectrum of India-Australia defence cooperation, including defence industry, cyber defence, maritime security and regional challenges.

With inputs from agencies
In Sheikh Hasinas trial, judges were appointed in violation of norms and persons affiliated with her rivals ran the proceedings. In a trial in absentia where she essentially did not have a defender, the legitimacy of her conviction is under serious questions.

Bangladesh's former premier Sheikh Hasina speaks during a meeting with foreign observers and journalists at the Prime Minister's residence in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on January 8, 2024. (Photo: Mohammad Ponir Hossain/Reuters)

Bangladeshi interim ruler Muhammad Yunus has hailed the International Crimes Tribunals (ICT) judgment in Sheikh Hasinas case, but the manner in which the trial was conducted riddled with procedural lapses and partisan motivations has undermined its legitimacy.

For one, the trial was held in absentia and Hasina effectively had no defence. Moreover, both judges and prosecutors were either appointed in violation of established norms or were clearly linked to her political opponents.

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In any case, using the ICT for Hasinas trial breached its original mandate. The tribunal was created with the stated objective of only trying war criminals involved in Pakistans genocide in the run-up to Bangladeshs War of Liberation. The validity of the amendment to this mandate made through an ordinance by Yunus to empower the special court to try Hasina in the absence of an elected parliament has been contested and never satisfactorily addressed.

Partisan judges, unconstitutional court

First things first: the ICT was formed under the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973 with the stated mandate to address crimes of genocide committed during Bangladeshs War of Liberation. Yunus unelected regime amended this mandate through an ordinance.

In the absence of approval by an elected parliament, such an amendment was invalid, a person aware of the matter told Hindustan Times.

Secondly, the composition of the ICT highlights the partisan nature of the tribunal.

The three judges ICT Chairman Golam Mortuza Majumder, Mohitul Haque Md Enam Chowdhury, and Shafiul Alam Mahmud were appointed in violation of the rule stipulating that a person may only be appointed as a permanent judge after completing two years of service as an additional judge.

Among them, Mahmud has been linked to Hasinas rival, the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), an Islamist pro-Pakistan party.

ALSO READ: With Hasina gone, Bangladeshs extremists dismantle 1971 foundation to become East Pakistan again

Yunus also appointed Tajul Islam as the chief prosecutor. He had built his career defending war criminals involved in the East Pakistan genocide.

Moreover, Majumder was appointed just six days before the trial began. Similarly, Mahmud was also appointed only days before proceedings commenced. This shows they were handpicked to be part of an orchestrated trial whose result was a foregone conclusion.

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All three were appointed permanent judges in violation of Article 98 of the Constitution, which stipulates a two-year period of satisfactory performance as additional judges before elevation as a permanent judge, a person familiar with the matter told HT.

Besides, all three judges have no prior experience of applying international legal principles, a significant gap in trials involving crimes against humanity, the person added.

ALSO READ  Bangladeshs Bhutto Moment: The Trial of Sheikh Hasina and echoes of Rawalpindi in Dhaka

Overall, at least 22 judges including ICT appointees were appointed in this manner in violation of norms, according to The Economic Times.

The ET further noted that the appointment of Toby Cadman as Special Adviser to the Chief Prosecutor of the ICT was also flawed as he had previously been a lawyer for Jamaat-e-Islami, one of Hasinas Islamist rivals and linked to Pakistans genocidal campaign.
The move comes in response to recent provocative comments by Japans new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan threatening Japans survival could trigger a military response.

A consumer chooses a dish in a Japanese restaurant in Beijing on August 22, 2023. (Photo by Pedro PARDO / AFP)

China has announced a full suspension on all Japanese seafood imports, intensifying an already fraught diplomatic dispute between the two countries. The decision was first reported by Kyodo News and marks a sharp escalation in economic measures.

The move comes in response to recent provocative comments by Japans new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who said that a Chinese attack on Taiwan threatening Japans survival could trigger a military response. Beijing strongly rebuked the remarks and demanded a retraction, while also advising its citizens to avoid travel to Japana warning that has already contributed to a surge in cancelled trips.

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This isnt the first time Beijing has restricted seafood imports from Japan.

In August 2023, China instituted a blanket ban following the release of treated wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear plant. Then, earlier this year, Beijing partially eased the ban to allow imports from select Japanese regionsbut the latest decision reverses that opening.

According to Kyodo News, China told Japan the renewed ban is needed because further monitoring is required of the Fukushima water release.

A spokesperson for Chinas Foreign Ministry, Mao Ning, reiterated the countrys commitment to stringent food safety measures, saying China will continue both international monitoring and its own independent sampling of Japanese aquatic products.

Should any risks be identified, necessary import restriction measures will be implemented immediately in accordance with the law, she warned.

For Japan, the are significant.

Prior to the dispute, China accounted for more than 20% of Japans seafood exports, particularly scallops and sea cucumbersmaking the Chinese market vital for Japanese fisheries.

At present, Chinese officials have not responded directly to requests for comment on the latest ban. Similarly, Japans agricultural authorities have remained silent on the new development.
Indian seafood exporters surged as much as 11% on Wednesday following media reports that China had notified Japan of plans to suspend imports from the country, a move that could shift demand toward alternative suppliers such as India.

Indian seafood stocks climbed by as much as 11% on Wednesday after media reports said China had informed Japan of its intention to halt seafood imports, a development that could redirect demand to suppliers like India.

Such a shift could prove beneficial for Indian seafood exporters, who have been under pressure due to steep US tariffs. The United States remains Indias largest seafood market, supplying major retail chains including Walmart and Kroger.

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Indias total seafood exports reached $7.4 billion last year, with shrimp contributing 40% of the value.

With higher tariffs affecting outbound shipments, exporters have been exploring new markets, according to Vincent K Andrews, equity research analyst at Geojit Financial Services. He said any fresh demand prospects would be encouraging for the industry.

Shares of shrimp exporter Avanti Feeds rose 11%, their biggest intraday gain in more than two months, topping the list of performers.

Coastal Corporation, which said in April it plans to increase exports to China, was up 5%, the most since October 24.

China Japan tensions deepen amid diplomatic row

Chinese authorities are expected to halt imports of Japanese seafood, Tokyo-based media outlets reported on Wednesday, as tensions escalate over remarks related to Taiwan. Neither Beijing nor Tokyo has officially acknowledged such a decision.

The two countries are now embroiled in their most serious diplomatic dispute since 2012, following comments made on November 7 by newly appointed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who indicated that Japan might consider military involvement if Taiwan were attacked.

Beijing, which considers Taiwan part of its territory, reacted strongly, summoning Japans ambassador and issuing an advisory urging Chinese citizens to avoid travelling to Japan.

Chinese state media also reported that the release of at least two Japanese films would be delayed in China.

Reports of a seafood import suspension came from Japanese outlets including public broadcaster NHK, which quoted unnamed government officials.

According to NHK, China justified the potential halt as a precaution linked to monitoring the discharge of treated wastewater from the damaged Fukushima nuclear plant.

China had only recently resumed limited imports of Japanese marine products after imposing a previous ban when the Fukushima water release process began in 2023.

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With inputs from agencies
Replying to a question by a reporter about Khashoggis murder, Trump said, Youre mentioning someone that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen

US President Donald Trump meets with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC on November 18, 2025. AFP

US President Donald Trump has said that the visiting Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman knew nothing about the killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, drifting away from Washingtons earlier conclusion that the de facto ruler of the kingdom was involved in the murder.

Trumps comments came as he hosted MBS at the White House on Tuesday. Replying to a question by a reporter about Khashoggis murder, Trump said, Youre mentioning someone that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen.

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This is MBSs first visit to the US since the 2018 killing. The president added, But he [the Crown Prince] knew nothing about it. You dont have to embarrass our guests.

Is Trump right?

Trumps latest statements are contradictory to a US intelligence assessment in 2021, which concluded that the crown prince had approved the operation that led to Khashoggis death at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018.

Bin Salman said it had been painful to hear about Khashoggis death but that his government did all the right steps of investigation. Weve improved our system to be sure that nothing like that happens. And its painful and its a huge mistake, he told reporters.

MBS has been strongly criticised by human rights groups not only for the Khashoggi killing but for his crackdown on dissent at home. But the crown prince has also unleashed major social reforms that have swept away some austere social codes.

He should apologise

Meanwhile, Khashoggis wife, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi, demanded that MBS should apologise to her for her husbands death.

@potus There is no justification to murder my husband. While Jamal was a good transparent and brave man many people may not have agreed with his opinions and desire for freedom of the press. The Crown Prince said he was sorry so he should meet me, apologize and compensate me for  Mrs Hanan Elatr Khashoggi   (@hananelatr) November 18, 2025

The Crown Prince said he was sorry so he should meet me, apologize and compensate me for the murder of my husband, she said on X. Hanan has been living in Washington DC after she was granted asylum by the US following her husbands death.
Talibans trade minister Nooruddin Azizi will arrive in India today to hold trade-related talks. India is the second-largest market for Afghan goods.

Trucks loaded with supplies wait to cross into Afghanistan at the Friendship Gate crossing point, in the Pakistan-Afghanistan border town of Chaman, Pakistan August 19, 2021. (Photo: Saeed Ali Achakzai/Reuters)

Talibans trade minister Nooruddin Azizi will on Wednesday arrive in India on a five-day visit.

Azizis visit, which follows last months visit by Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi, will be one of the highest-level engagements between the two countries since the Taliban took over Afghanistan in 2021.

India is the second-largest export market for Afghanistan. Since the Taliban takeover, the India-Afghan trade has shifted in favour of Afghanistan with Afghan imports reducing and exports rising. India currently imports much more than it exports to Afghanistan.

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During his visit, Azizi will hold talks with Indian trade officials. He will also likely attend the India International Trade Fair (IITF) at Delhi.

Last month, during his visit to India, Muttaqi had said that India and Taliban would form committees to boost trade.

Both sides agreed to create a trade committee Due to opportunities opened in Afghanistan in terms of investment and activities in minerals and energy, we invited the Indian side to explore work in these areas, said Muttaqi at the time.

Muttaqi highlighted the potential for increased business and investment ties between the two countries.

The nature of India-Afghanistan trade has changed in recent years since the Talibans takeover. The balance of trade has moved in Talibans favour.

IN 2020-21, India exported $825.78 million worth of goods to Afghanistan and imported goods worth $509.49 million. But Indian exports fell sharply to $554.47 million in 2021-22, $437.05 million in 2022-23, and $355.45 million in 2023-24. On the other hand, Afghan imports into India have steadily risen.

Period Indian Exports (USD millions) Imports from Afghanistan (USD millions) Total Trade 2019-20 (Pre-Taliban) 997.58 530 1,527.58 2020-21 825.78 509.49 1,335.27 2021-22 554.47 510.93 1,066.40 2022-23 437.05 452.81 889.86 2023-24 355.45 642.29 997.74 2024-25 318.91 689.81 1,008.72

Indias imports are almost entirely agricultural where exports even if reduced span from pharmaceutical to textiles and machinery. In 2023-24, Indias top imports were figs, asafoetida (hing), raisins, apples, garlic, saffron, fennel seeds, almonds, apricots, onions, pomegranates, and walnuts.

Since the Taliban takeover, India-Afghanistan trade has been affected by the closure of India-Pakistan border and Pakistan-Afghanistan border because of Pakistans worsening relationships with India and the Taliban. Afghan banks and financial institutions have also been cut from international payment mechanisms like SWIFT, which has made trade difficult.
The durian, often dubbed the king of fruits, sits at the center of a friendly yet fervent rivalry between Malaysia and Indonesia. Malaysia, known for prized varieties such as Musang King, aims to establish the durian as its national fruit to boost cultural pride and global branding.

Malaysia and Indonesia clash over who truly holds the crown as the home of the king of fruits, the durian, sparking a spirited debate on national identity and heritage.

The durian fruit, often called the king of fruits, is widely associated with Malaysia. Many Malaysians proudly claim it as their national treasure. However, Indonesia challenges this view, insisting that it has a stronger claim to the durian. This disagreement has complicated Malaysias effort to officially declare durian as its national fruit.

Indonesia contests Malaysias national fruit bid

On November 18, 2025, Indonesias Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs, Zulkifli Hasan, popularly known as Zulhas, openly disagreed with Malaysias proposal to name durian as their national fruit. He based his stance on Indonesias larger durian production figures. Data from Indonesias Central Statistics Agency showed that the country produced nearly 2 million tonnes of durian in 2024. This volume was described by Zulhas as far surpassing Malaysias output and thus made durian Indonesias rightful national fruit.

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Durian production hotspots in Indonesia

Indonesias significant durian production is widely spread across several islands including Java, Sumatra, Kalimantan, and Sulawesi. The 2024 output represents the highest yield in five years, fueled by favorable conditions across these key regions. Indonesias commitment to durian cultivation contrasts with Malaysia, whose production, although substantial, remains comparatively lower.

Malaysias durian industry and exports

Malaysia, meanwhile, is known for its premium durian varieties such as the Musang King, contributing to the fruits export value growth. While Malaysias total production figures are lower, the country has expanded its international market reach, particularly to China and other Asian countries. Despite the export success, Malaysias bid to elevate durian to official national fruit status faces a challenging debate due to Indonesias competing claim.
From trade disputes to geopolitical pressure, Europe faces scrutiny at home and abroad

European leaders are no strangers to self-criticism, often publicly acknowledging the continents political and economic weaknesses. But in China, that scrutiny is amplifiedand delivered in far harsher terms.

Many Chinese commentators see Europe as firmly aligned with the United States. Europe is incapable of truly breaking free from America to become independent, said a Fudan University scholar quoted by the South China Morning Post. State media has also questioned Europes competitiveness, with the Economic Daily noting that Europe simply lacks the strength to meet the challenges in key technology sectors.

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Some Chinese analysts have even cast doubt on the EUs longevity. Whether the European Union can even survive until 2035 is a question, nationalist academic Zhang Weiwei said on television, as cited by BBC News.

Private assessments, according to Reuters, are often even more scathing.

One consultant likened Europe to an ageing concubine who cannot accept that she has been ditched by her American emperor, while another said bluntly, Europe hates innovation. A European business representative told The Guardian that during a visit to Chinas foreign ministry, he was subjected to a wolf-warrior-style rebuke, apparently delivered for sport.

Analysts say Chinas perspective often oversimplifies European decisions. Many Chinese observers view Europe as merely following US policy, a lens applied to events like the war in Ukraine. From this viewpoint, Europe seeks stability while the US prolongs the conflictan interpretation that overlooks Europes own security concerns.

The Dutch governments seizure of Nexperia, a Chinese-owned semiconductor firm, drew similar skepticism in Beijing. While the Netherlands maintains the move was driven by economic security, Chinese commentators cited by Reuters assumed the action was coordinated with Washington.

China also appears to overestimate its ability to present itself as a strategic partner.

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Beijing hopes to revive stalled trade negotiations and push forward a long-delayed investment agreement, according to the South China Morning Post. But Europes economic priorities are shifting: Germanys trade deficit with China is approaching $100 billion this year, and European companies that once relied on China now see it as a major competitor. Export controls on rare earth minerals have reinforced Europes concerns about dependence on Chinese supply chains, according to The Guardian.

Diplomatic tensions are rising too.

In June, the EU cancelled an economic dialogue with China over stalled progress. In October, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul postponed a Beijing visit after being denied high-level meetings. Beijing was also reportedly displeased by his comments on Chinas increasingly aggressive actions in Asian waters, according to BBC News.

China appears to assume Europe poses little threat.

Beijing believes Europe can be easily managed compared with Washington and continues cultivating relationships with countries like Hungary and Spain to weaken EU cohesion.

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But experts warn that China may be miscalculating. Continued Chinese support for Russia in Ukraine limits prospects for improved relations. Meanwhile, a surge in Chinese exports could prompt Europe to adopt more assertive economic measures. If that occurs, Europe may demonstrate the resolve China has long underestimatedand the frustration driving Europes new stance will be homegrown, not imported from Washington.
Investigators recovered a 42-page diary from the teen, described as a Diary Reb, which offers a window into his mental state and motivations

Indonesia: Over 50 injured in explosion at mosque inside Jakarta school during friday prayers. Representative image. (Photo by Timur Matahari / AFP)

Jakarta authorities have unearthed new details in the investigation into the November 7 bombing at a school mosque, tracing how a 17-year-old student planned the attack largely in isolation. The teenager, hospitalised after sustaining injuries in the blast, is being treated as a minor under Indonesias juvenile justice system, as reported by Reuters.

Investigators recovered a 42-page diary from the teen, described as a Diary Reb, which offers a window into his mental state and motivations. The diary contained sketches of the mosque layout, notes on where to place explosives, and the date of the attack. Authorities say the notebook detailed feelings of loneliness, isolation, and a desire for recognition within extremist online communities.

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Police reported that the teen acted alone, creating seven small improvised explosive devices, four of which detonated during Friday prayers. He reportedly learnt bomb-making techniques from online tutorials and was active in a Telegram group that glorified extremist violence.

Jakarta police spokesperson Reonald Simanjuntak said, He wanted to be recognised by members of the online community  because he feels lonely.

The boys family background reflects his isolation. He lived in a modest North Jakarta home with his father, who works as a cook, and several boarders. Following his parents divorce and his mothers remarriage, he reportedly spent most of his time alone behind a laptop. Relatives said he had minimal social interaction outside his immediate household.

Authorities also discovered that he misled his father about the items he was buying online, claiming they were for cosplay purposes. Investigators are scrutinising his digital footprint alongside his personal materials, including the diary, to understand the motivations behind the attack. Officials believe the teenagers actions stemmed more from personal trauma and a sense of alienation than from formal religious or ideological indoctrination.

Police are continuing their investigation to determine whether other people or networks contributed to the attack, while also deliberating on the appropriate legal measures given the perpetrators status as a minor.
Such a move would mark Japans most decisive pivot toward nuclear power since the Fukushima crisis, as the country works to shrink its carbon footprint and strengthen the reliability of its energy system

This picture taken on August 5, 2024 shows the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power station (back) in Kashiwazaki, in Japan's Niigata prefecture. Glinting in the sun by the world's biggest nuclear plant, the Sea of Japan is calm now. But as it gears up to restart Kashiwazaki-Kariwa has a new tsunami wall, just in case. (Photo by Yuichi YAMAZAKI / AFP) / TO GO WITH "JAPAN-NUCLEAR-POLITICS-CLIMATE-ECONOMY,FOCUS" BY SIMON STURDEE

A sense of momentum is building around the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power complex.

Dormant for over 10 years, the worlds largest nuclear facilitylocated along the coast of Niigata Prefectureis now waiting for a decisive green light from the regional governor that would allow it to generate power again.

Such a restart would mark Japans clearest move yet toward reviving nuclear energy nearly 15 years after the Fukushima disaster, as the country looks to cut carbon emissions and stabilise its energy supply. But local political resistance has repeatedly slowed attempts to bring reactors back online.

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Governor Hideyo Hanazumi has said he will announce his decision soon, with some local reports suggesting Friday as a possible date. A cautious and measured figure, Hanazumi has stressed that he intends to weigh all possible factors before ruling on the plants future.

According to the Nikkei business daily, Hanazumi plans to present his decision to the prefectural assembly when its regular session begins on December 2. Should the assembly back his stance, he is then expected to formally respond to the central governments request for approval of the restart.

Tokyo Electric Power Company (Tepco), meanwhile, intends to reactivate the plants two largest reactorsUnits 6 and 7which together can generate 2,710 megawatts of electricity. The company is also considering retiring some of the other five reactors at the site.

Kashiwazaki-Kariwas overall capacity stands at 8,212 MW.

In October, Tepco completed inspections of the No. 6 reactor following fuel loading, saying it had verified that the key systems needed for startup were functioning normally.

The utility has also previously committed 100 billion yen ($644 million) in community support funds in an effort to build local backing for the restart, something it has pursued for years despite pockets of resistance.

If given the go-ahead, the move would align with new Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis strategy to accelerate nuclear restarts as part of a broader plan to fortify Japans energy security.

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Bringing part of the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant back to life would also help reduce Japans spending on liquefied natural gas, crucial for the worlds second-largest LNG importer after China, as the government focuses on easing cost-of-living pressures.

So far, Japan has brought 14 reactors back into operation under post-Fukushima safety standards. As of late October, 11 of those were active, providing a combined 10,647 MWa stark contrast to the 54 reactors in service before the 2011 disaster.

The potential restart of Unit No. 6 at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant early next year is set to significantly reduce Japans need for liquefied natural gas (LNG). If Unit No. 6 is restarted early next year, it may displace around 1 million tonnes of LNG demand from Japan next year, said Go Katayama, an analyst at data and analytics company Kpler, to Reuters.

For the operator, Tepco, the restart is also a major financial boost.

Following years of large compensation payouts related to the 2011 reactor accident, the company has said that bringing just one reactor at the Kashiwazaki-Kariwa plant back is expected to boost its annual net profit by 100 billion yen ($644 million).

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A 32-year-old man accused of a mass stabbing aboard a high-speed train in Cambridgeshire faces seven new charges, bringing the total to 18, as police link multiple violent incidents across three counties.

A forensic officer inspects the London North Eastern Railway train where a series of stabbings took place, at a platform at Huntingdon Station, near Cambridge, Britain, November 2, 2025. - Reuters

A man accused of a mass stabbing aboard a high-speed train in Cambridgeshire has been charged with seven further offences, prosecutors in the UK said on Wednesday. Anthony Williams, 32, from Peterborough is now facing a total of 18 charges connected to a series of violent incidents that took place over two days across Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire and London, according to reports.

The new charges relate to alleged offences committed on 31 October, a day before the attack on a Doncaster-to-London LNER service. Prosecutors said Williams has been charged with two additional counts of attempted murder involving a 14-year-old boy and a 22-year-old man. He also faces an allegation of attempting to cause grievous bodily harm to a 28-year-old man.

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Other charges include affray and possession of a knife following an incident at a barbershop in Peterborough, the theft of two knives from a supermarket in Stevenage, and the common assault of a man on a train travelling between Hitchin and Biggleswade.

These come on top of 11 existing charges, including ten counts of attempted murder, after multiple people were stabbed onboard the LNER train on 1 November. A railway staff member who confronted the attacker was critically injured but survived. The train was forced to make an emergency stop at Huntingdon station, where armed officers detained Williams. Police have said there is no indication the attack was terror-related.

Williams is also accused of attempted murder in a separate incident earlier the same day on a Docklands Light Railway train in east London, during which another victim was stabbed.

British Transport Police, working with Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire forces, said the investigation had expanded as new information emerged. Senior officers described the additional charges as significant and stressed that detectives had been examining a series of linked incidents.

Williams appeared at Peterborough Magistrates Court on Wednesday and remains in custody. Further hearings are expected as police continue to review evidence from all locations connected to the case.

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With inputs from agencies
New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani has sought a meeting with US President Donald Trump. He said he was open to working with Trump to improve the cost-of-living crisis in New York.

New York City Mayoral candidate Zohran Mamdani celebrates during an election night event at the Brooklyn Paramount Theater in Brooklyn, New York. AFP

A day after US President Donald Trump said he was open to meet the Mayor-elect of New York City, Zohran Mamdani on Monday said that he has reached out to the White House to seek a meeting.

During the election campaign, Mamdani and Trump had exchanged sharp barbs. Trump had labelled Mamdani a 100 per cent communist lunatic and had endorsed his rival, former Governor Andrew Cuomo.

Mamdani said the outreach to the White House was part of his commitment to address the affordability crisis in New York, according to The New York Times.

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Previously, Trump said on Sunday, The Mayor of New York, I will say, would like to meet with us and well work something out. We want to see everything work out well for New York.

The Mamdani-Trump meeting if it takes place will happen at a time when New Yorks officials are concerned that Trump could send military to the city as part of his crackdown on immigrants and critics. He has so far deployed troops in Los Angeles, Portland, Washington DC, etc.

Mamdani to focus on affordability

In his meeting with Trump, Mamdani is expected to discuss Trumps to revolve around New Yorks affordability crisis.

Mamdani has said that affordability crisis which Trump had also spoken about was a possible common group between him and Trump.

He has said that if the president were willing to find common ground on the issue, he would be willing to work with him. But he has also expressed doubt that the president has any such intentions. But he has no delusions.

Irrespective of Trumps words, his actions have raised prices said. Mamdani.

The president ran a campaign where he spoke about a promise to deliver cheaper groceries, a promise to reduce the cost of living. We are seeing his actions and that of his administration in Washington leading to the exact opposite effect for New Yorkers, said Mamdani.

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Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly ruled out any possibility of US military action on Mexican soil after comments from US President Donald Trump.

The US Embassy in Mexico posted a video on X on Monday featuring past remarks from Rubio in which he stated that the United States would not take unilateral action inside Mexico. (AP)

Mexicos President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday dismissed the prospect of allowing US strikes against cartels on Mexican territory, a day after US President Donald Trump said he was prepared to take whatever action necessary to stop drugs from entering the United States.

Its not going to happen, Sheinbaum said, noting that Trump had previously suggested a United States military intervention in Mexico to combat criminal groups. She explained that she had repeatedly told him that collaboration was possible and that the US could share intelligence, but that operations within Mexico would remain strictly under Mexican control. She added that she had conveyed the same message to US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who she said had understood her position.

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Trump, speaking on Monday, had said, Would I want strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? OK with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs, adding that he was not happy with Mexico. Later that day, the US Embassy in Mexico shared a video on X showing earlier comments from Rubio saying that the United States would not take unilateral action in Mexico.

Officials address confusion over US signs placed on Mexican beach

While the exchange played out publicly, both Mexican and US officials were working on Tuesday to resolve what may have been a genuine US incursion across the border.

On Monday, men arrived by boat at a beach in northeast Mexico and installed signs marking what the US Department of Defence considered restricted land. Mexicos Foreign Affairs Ministry reported that the Mexican navy removed the signs, which appeared to be located on Mexican soil. Sheinbaum said the International Boundary and Water Commission, the binational body responsible for defining the border, was now involved.

The signs were driven into sand at Playa Bagdad, near the point where the Rio Grande flows into the Gulf of Mexico. Written in English and Spanish, they warned that the area was restricted Department of Defence property under the authority of the commander, prohibiting any unauthorised access, photography, or drawings.

On Tuesday, the US Embassy in Mexico shared a Pentagon statement confirming that contractors had installed the signs to mark National Defence Area III at the mouth of the Rio Grande. The Pentagon said that changes in water depth and topography had altered perceptions of the exact border location and that Mexican personnel had removed six signs based on their understanding of the boundary. It added that contractors would coordinate with the relevant agencies to prevent future confusion.

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Mexico contacted its consulate in Brownsville, Texas, and later the US Embassy in Mexico City. Sheinbaum said it was ultimately determined that contractors working for a US government entity had placed the signs. She noted that the Rio Grande shifts course and that, under treaty obligations, the border must be clearly defined.

The site lies close to SpaceX Starbase, situated beside Boca Chica Beach on the Texas side of the river. SpaceXs rocket facility, linked to Department of Defence and NASA projects, drew scrutiny in June when Sheinbaum said the Mexican government was examining contamination after metal, plastic, and rocket fragments were reportedly found on Mexicos side of the border following a test explosion.

The region remains sensitive, particularly after Trump ordered that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the Gulf of America, a move Mexico rejected.
Hasina continues to live in India at an undisclosed location. She fled to the country soon after her government was taken down in August 2024

Ever since her ouster from power, Sheikh Hasina has been lying low in India. She has reportedly been given residence in a safehouse in Delhi's Lutyen's area. File image/PTI

Bangladeshs ousted former prime minister Sheikh Hasinas son, Sajeeb Wazed, has expressed gratitude to the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government for saving his mothers life following a student uprising against the Hasina government.

Speaking to ANI, Wazed claimed that militants were planning to kill the Awami League leader. India has always been a good friend. In the crisis, India has essentially saved my mothers life. If she hadnt left Bangladesh, the militants had planned on killing her. So, I am eternally grateful to Prime Minister Modis government for saving my mothers life, he said.

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Earlier this week, Hasina was sentenced to death by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on the charges of incitement, ordering killings, and failing to prevent atrocities.

On extradition

Hasina continues to live in India at an undisclosed location. She fled to the country soon after her government was taken down in August 2024. Talking about her extradition to Bangladesh, Wazed said, For an extradition to happen, the judicial process has to be followed. In Bangladesh, there is a government thats unelected, unconstitutional and illegal. In order to convict my mother, they amended laws to fast-track her trial.

He added, My mother was not allowed to hire her defence attorneys. Her attorneys werent even allowed into the courts 17 judges were terminated at the court before the trial, new judges appointed, some of whom had absolutely no experience on the bench and were politically connected.

What has India said?

Bangladeshs interim leader, Muhammad Yunus and the foreign ministry have urged India to extradite Hasina after her conviction, citing an extradition agreement with India.

A statement from the Indian Ministry of External Affairs said, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country.

We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end, the statement added.
A curfew was imposed in Nepals Bara district near the Indian border after violent clashes erupted between Gen Z youths and members of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist). The conflict took place around Simara Airport as protesters opposed the arrival of CPN-UML leaders who planned to hold an anti-government rally.

Clashes between Gen Z youths and CPN-UML cadres at Simara Airport spark curfew in Nepals Bara district as political tensions escalate.

A curfew was implemented in Nepals Bara district near the Indian border on Wednesday following violent clashes between Gen Z youths and members of the Communist Party of Nepal (Unified Marxist Leninist), known as CPN-UML. The conflict arose amid rising political tensions related to the recent dissolution of Nepals House of Representatives and ongoing protests.

Curfew imposed near Simara airport

The Bara district administration announced a curfew effective from 12:30 pm to 8 pm within a 500-meter radius around Simara Airport. The measure was taken after hundreds of Gen Z activists gathered at the airport, chanting slogans against the CPN-UML party. The curfew aims to restore peace and prevent further unrest in the area.

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Clash triggered by political leaders arrival

The confrontation started when news spread that CPN-UML general secretary Shankar Pokharel and youth leader Mahesh Basnet were arriving at Simara by Buddha Air flight to address an anti-government rally. The Gen Z protesters, opposed to the party led by former prime minister K.P. Sharma Oli, assembled in protest. This led to clashes with local party cadres at the airport, resulting in disruptions and heightened tensions.

Flight cancellations and political backdrop

Following the violence, Buddha Airlines cancelled all domestic flights between Kathmandu and Simara for the day, including the flight carrying the CPN-UML leaders who returned to Kathmandu. The party has been actively organising protests demanding the reinstatement of the dissolved House of Representatives, a move triggered by the Gen Z movement that ended Olis government. Gen Z activists also demand accountability for the alleged mass killings of protesters during anti-corruption and social media ban demonstrations earlier this year.
Trump said that the visiting MBS knew nothing about the killing of Khashoggi, drifting away from Washingtons earlier conclusion that the de facto ruler of the kingdom was involved in the murder

Hanan Khashoggi, the wife of Jamal Khashoggi, the journalist who was killed in 2018, has expressed dissatisfaction over US President Donald Trumps backing of Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman over Khashoggis death.

Tagging Potus in a post on X, Hanan said, There is no justification to murder my husband. While Jamal was a good transparent and brave man many people may not have agreed with his opinions and desire for freedom of the press. The Crown Prince said he was sorry so he should meet me, apologize and compensate me for the murder of my husband.

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Trump said that the visiting MBS knew nothing about the killing of Khashoggi, drifting away from Washingtons earlier conclusion that the de facto ruler of the kingdom was involved in the murder.

Replying to a question by a reporter about Khashoggis murder, Trump said, Youre mentioning someone that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen.

Trumps latest statements are contradictory to a US intelligence assessment in 2021, which concluded that the crown prince had approved the operation that led to Khashoggis death at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul in 2018.

Bin Salman said it had been painful to hear about Khashoggis death but that his government did all the right steps of investigation. Weve improved our system to be sure that nothing like that happens. And its painful and its a huge mistake, he told reporters.

MBS has been strongly criticised by human rights groups not only for the Khashoggi killing but for his crackdown on dissent at home. But the crown prince has also unleashed major social reforms that have swept away some austere social codes.
Poland and Romania scrambled fighter jets overnight after Russia launched a wave of missile and drone attacks on western Ukraine, close to the borders of both Nato members, according to a report, citing officials

Poland and Romania scrambled fighter jets overnight after Russia launched a wave of missile and drone attacks on western Ukraine, close to the borders of both Nato members, according to a Politico report, citing officials.

Moscows barrage targeted the cities of Lviv and Ternopil, far from the front lines in eastern Ukraine.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said the strikes damaged residential apartment blocks, killing nine people and injuring dozens more. Rescue crews were still searching for survivors, with some residents believed to be trapped beneath the rubble.

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In a post on X, Warsaws operational command said it had deployed quick-reaction fighter pairs and an early warning aircraft as a precaution, adding ground-based air defence and radar surveillance systems were at the highest state of readiness.

Polish authorities also temporarily closed two airports  Rzeszow and Lublin  in the countrys southeast as Russias aerial assault unfolded.

Meanwhile, in Romania, the Defence Ministry said it scrambled four fighter jets shortly after midnight  two German Eurofighter Typhoons and two Romanian Air Force F-16s  after detecting a drone that briefly penetrated about five miles into Romanian airspace, reported Politico.

Ministry spokesperson Corneliu Pavel told the local outlet Digi24 that pilots had authorisation to shoot down the drone but refrained when its signal disappeared.

Both countries responses were carried out in coordination with Nato partners.

Polands operational command thanked the alliance and member states Norway, Spain, the Netherlands and Germany for assisting with airspace monitoring.

Russias war in Ukraine has begun to affect neighboring countries, with a Romanian village evacuated Monday after a Russian strike ignited a gas tanker across the river in a Ukrainian port.

In Poland, Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that saboteurs blew up a section of the train line between Warsaw and Lublin over the weekend, a key route connecting to Ukraine.

Zelenskyy said Russias overnight attacks also targeted Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Cherkasy, Chernihiv and Dnipro. He called for increased air support for Ukraine and tougher sanctions on Moscow.

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Every brazen attack against ordinary life proves that the pressure on Russia is still insufficient, Zelenskyy warned.

With inputs from agencies
Poland will close Russias last operating consulate in the country, a move that immediately drew criticism from the Kremlin, following allegations that two Ukrainian citizens working for Moscow were involved in sabotaging a railway line, Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski announced Wednesday

Prime Minister Donald Tusk, second right, visits site of the rail line Mika, that was damaged by sabotage, near Deblin, Poland, on Nov. 17, 2025. AP File

Poland will close Russias last operating consulate in the country, a move that immediately drew criticism from the Kremlin, following allegations that two Ukrainian citizens working for Moscow were involved in sabotaging a railway line, Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski announced Wednesday.

According to an Associated Press report, citing the Polish news agency PAP, Sikorski said he had repeatedly warned Moscow that its diplomatic presence in Poland would be further reduced if it continued what he called hostile actions.

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In connection with this, though it will not be our full response, I have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of the last Russian consulate in Gdansk, Sikorski said, adding that Russia would receive formal notification within hours.

Once the closure takes effect, Russia will retain only its embassy in Warsaw.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has described the weekend explosion on a rail line linking Warsaw to the Ukrainian border as an unprecedented act of sabotage. On Monday, he told lawmakers that the two suspects had long collaborated with Russian intelligence services. Their identities remain undisclosed due to the ongoing investigation, and authorities believe both have fled into Belarus.

The incident comes amid a series of alleged Russian-backed attacks and covert operations across Europe since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, according to data compiled by The Associated Press. Western officials say such operations are aimed at weakening support for Kyiv and sowing fear and division within European societies.

Kremlin slams decision

The Kremlin on Wednesday criticised Warsaws decision to close the Gdansk consulate, calling it irrational and politically motivated.

Relations with Poland have completely deteriorated, Reuters quoted Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov as saying.

This is probably a manifestation of this deterioration  the Polish authorities desire to reduce any possibility of consular or diplomatic relations to zero. One can only express regret here This has nothing to do with common sense, he added.

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Russian officials have rejected Polands accusations, dismissing them as Russophobia.

With inputs from agencies
Sheikh Hasinas father originally set up Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal to try cases of atrocities during the Liberation War. Hasina revived the tribunal when she assumed power in 2000s. The current regimes has used it against her

International Crimes Tribunal, the court in Bangladesh created by the country's former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has now sentenced her to death. Firstpost

Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Monday sentenced the country's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for committing what the court described as crimes against humanity. Hasina was convicted on three out of five charges: Incitement of violence, issuing an order to kill and inaction over the July protests, which took a violent turn.

Other than Hasina, former Home Minister of Bangladesh, Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, was also sentenced to death. Meanwhile, former inspector general of police Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who later became an approver, received leniency and was sentenced to five years in prison.

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All the convicts will now have 30 days to appeal the verdict to the Bangladesh Supreme Court. However, they will have to come back to Bangladesh and surrender themselves to the authorities to make that appeal. After the appeal is made, the Supreme Court will have 60 days to uphold or overturn the ICTs ruling.

The irony is that it was Hasina who established the court in the first place, and it was her father, Bangabandhu Mujibur Rahman, who laid the foundation for the tribunal. Over the years, many raised concerns over different aspects of the court. Many questioned the tribunals tendency to award capital punishment and conduct trials in absentia. While the Hasina government kept on defending the tribunal, ultimately it was the same court that ended up giving her a death sentence.

Three phases of ICT

The birth of the concept - International Crimes (Tribunals) Act 1973

During the Bangladesh Liberation War in 1971, it was estimated that 300,000-500,000 to as many as 3 million people died in the war. While the death toll had been hotly contested, it was definitive that war crimes and crimes against humanity were committed not only by the Pakistani troops but also by the pro-Pakistani elements within the country.

Even before the court was established, a large number of people faced trials in the legal judicial institutions established right after independence. Following the surrender of the Pakistan Army in December 1971 to the Indian forces, Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans Awami League came to power in the country. It was they who began the trials.

The International Crimes (Tribunals) Act, 1973, which provided the legal basis of the ICT, was passed by the Bangladeshi parliament on July 20, 1973. The Act provided for the prosecution of genocide, war crimes, crimes against humanity, and other international crimes.

At that time, the Bangladeshi parliament described the Act as the first national war crimes law in the world, established even before the International Criminal Court existed. However, the ambition to form the tribunal went into a standstill following a military coup in 1975, in which Mujibur was assassinated.

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The rebirth of the idea and the establishment of the ICT

After Rehman's assassination, the Act remained dormant and hidden in the pages of the countrys Constitution. It re-emerged only after his daughter, Sheikh Hasin, became the Prime Minister of Bangladesh in 2008, leading the Awami League to power.

In 2009, Hasina moved to revive the 1973 law, making amendments to facilitate modern trials. ICT-1 was formally established on March 25, 2010, and ICT-2 was constituted on March 22, 2012 to manage the growing caseload. This time, there was a wider political context to consider.

One such instance was the fact that the passage of time reduced the number of people who were still alive to be investigated. Over the years, the tribunal deepened the already considerable divisions within the Bangladeshi political elite.

Hasinas political tool: The third phase

Before Hasina, 10 prominent people had been prosecuted by ICT for the war crimes they were accused of committing during the Bangladesh Liberation War. Three of them were not given a death Sentence, and except for one person, all others died in prison.

However, the court adjudicated 53 cases, resulting in 99 death sentences and jail terms. While some of these death sentences were carried out, others were appealed. As of now, there has been only one case where the Appellate Division overturned the death sentence given by the ICT.

But the most interesting trend was the fact that before the Hasina trial, the tribunal tried only her rivals. Out of the 10 prominent political leaders tried in court, three came from the Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), the party of Sheikh Hasinas longstanding political rival, former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, and five were from Jamaat-e-Islami, which has often allied with the BNP. Over the years, both parties rejected the legitimacy of the tribunal.

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Criticism of the tribunal

While supporters argued that the tribunal is helping in draining the poison of 1971 and would eventually help in breaking the cycle of anti-national elements, sceptics worried that these trials often stoke conflict and instability across the country, with BNP and JeI protesting the trials of their leaders.

While many accused the Hasina regime of using the court as a political tool, many also raised legal concerns. The most common of them are as follows:

The tendency to award death punishments

As mentioned earlier, the ICT handed down death sentences in the majority of cases that it tried. This raised concern over the courts tendency to hand down capital punishment to the defendants. Although the international community has yet to agree on the need for a prohibition on capital punishment, the tribunal has often been criticised by human rights groups over the same.

Conduct of trial in absentia

Like Hasinas case, the ICT has tried many in absentia, with the accused missing out on the right to defend themselves in court, an internationally recognised human right. It is pertient to note that neither the ICC nor the ICTY, ICTR, nor the Special Court for Sierra Leone permits trials in absentia.

The need to facilitate more amicus curiae briefs

An amicus curiae brief is a legal document filed by a person or group who is not a party to a case but has a strong interest in the outcome. Many have raised concerns over the lack of such briefs, especially from experts on international criminal law.

They argue that the lack of such briefs could undermine the credibility of the judgments passed by the Tribunal, as other international tribunals and courts, including the ICC, ICTY, ICTR and SCSL, mandate their trial chambers to seek, receive and consider briefs on difficult points of interpretation.

While Rule 41 of the Rules of Procedure of the ICT-BD Act empowers a judge to seek and receive independent opinions on points of law, it has never been invoked.

Other issues: Fairness of trial and human rights

While the Human Rights Watch welcomed the establishment and the conduct of the court, it often raised the need for amendments. In the past, the group has raised the following complaints:

Cases are not fairly selected and tried

The rules of evidence are inadequate

The process for appointing the judges has lacked independence

Elements of the appeal process have been unjustifiably restricted

Defence lawyers and witnesses are being harassed by the authorities

Hasinas Frankenstein

For years, ICT remained one of Hasinas most powerful judicial instruments  a court she created, expanded and heavily defended. In 2010, Hasina delivered an address to the United Nations, saying the International Crimes Tribunal has been set up to try persons responsible for war crimes and crimes against humanity during the Liberation War of Bangladesh in 1971.

This action is in accordance with the rule of law as reflected in the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court (ICC), which we have ratified and which aims at bringing to justice the perpetrators of war crimes, genocide and crimes against humanity, Hasina said in her speech at the world body. I believe that only justice can heal the unforgivable, deadly wrongs of the past," she added.

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In 2018, Hasina went on to target BNP founder late Ziaur Rahman and her rival Khaleda Zia, insisting that even the patrons of war criminals should also be tried for their crimes during the 1971 Liberation War, since she believed both were equally guilty.

We have held the trial of war criminals and executed the court verdicts. I think its necessary to equally try those who rewarded the war criminals, gave the national flag to their hands and made them ministers in independent Bangladesh, Hasina said at that time.

The war criminals carried out the genocide. But those who patronised them, made them ministers, MPs and created scope for them to do politics are equally guilty, she added. However, Zia and her father, despite having their share of legal struggles, were never tried in the international court.

How it turned on her

While Hasina has been an ardent advocate of ICT, things changed when her government was toppled in August 2024. After the interim administration under the leadership of Muhammad Yunus came to power, it reconstituted the tribunal to investigate the killings and abuses linked to the governments crackdown on protesters.

Hence, in an unprecedented reversal of roles, the court that Hasina created tried her as well as the former home minister and police chief for crimes against humanity.

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Another irony was that the parties, BNP and JeI, which long rejected and opposed the court and its rulings, celebrated when Hasina received a death sentence. In the hindsight, Hasina ended up creating a Frankenstein, which handed over her death sentence. Now the ball is in Hasina's court in terms of how she will deal with the verdict. She has rejected the legitimacy of the trial. But will she appeal against the order?
As the G20 meets in Africa for the first time, South Africa wants the meeting to spotlight urgent challenges facing poorer countries  from climate-driven disasters to the slow pace of green development  while also navigating its own vulnerabilities

Volunteers wearing wetsuits untangle a long garbage net on the Jukskei River in the Alexandra township in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov. 12, 2025. AP

As leaders from the Group of 20 prepare to gather in Johannesburg this weekend for the blocs first-ever summit on African soil, South Africa is putting its oldest township, Alexandra, at the symbolic center of the conversation.

The host nation wants the meeting to spotlight urgent challenges facing poorer countries  from climate-driven disasters to the slow pace of green development  while also navigating its own vulnerabilities.

Developed world should do more

In Alexandra, volunteers wade into the polluted Jukskei River in wetsuits, untangling garbage nets damaged by heavy rains. Without them, floods can tear through low-lying shacks, endangering the townships half-million residents who live just steps from the wealthy financial hub of Sandton.

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South Africa plans to use the summit to press rich nations and major financial institutions to increase support for countries hit hardest by climate change  a message echoed at global climate talks in Brazil.

Binaifer Nowrojee, president of the Open Society Foundations, told The Associated Press that countries are being forced into a destructive choice between economic growth and climate action, highlighting how inequality deepens climate vulnerability.

Changing climate hurting the poor most

The World Bank says the worlds poorest countries experienced nearly eight times more natural disasters from 2010 to 2020 compared with 1980 to 1990.

Southern Africa has endured a brutal decade  from powerful tropical storms like Cyclone Idai that caused $2 billion in damage, to last years El Nino-driven drought that crippled small-scale agriculture.

In Alexandra, residents feel this acutely. Floods routinely cut off bridges, leaving children unable to reach school.

It is a big hazard, Associated Press quoted Semadi Manganye, co-founder of the Alexandra Water Warriors, the volunteer group leading local resilience efforts, as saying.

How to fund the fight against climate change

Climate finance remains one of the most contentious issues on the G20 agenda.

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Wealthy countries agreed at last years UN climate summit to mobilise at least $300 billion annually by 2035 to help developing nations cope with climate impacts. Independent experts, however, say that figure needs to reach $1 trillion a year by 2030 to make a meaningful difference.

Yet the G20 may struggle to reach consensus: the United States  one of the worlds biggest emitters  will skip the summit, boycotting over President Donald Trumps widely discredited claims that South Africa is persecuting its white minority.

The host is on slippery grounds

While South Africa is pushing global leaders to act, it is also grappling with its own shortcomings. The Alexandra Water Warriors and similar township projects highlight community resilience, but the broader picture is bleak.

An Amnesty International report released ahead of the summit says the government is failing roughly 5 million people living in informal settlements without adequate housing or climate-resilient infrastructure.

Recent floods in the Eastern Cape killed more than 100 people  a tragedy President Cyril Ramaphosa linked to climate change, though local officials pointed to broken infrastructure and unsafe housing as major factors.

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Whats the future of green growth?

Despite the challenges, some see opportunity. Around 3,000 Alexandra residents now earn small stipends through environmental projects supported by a mix of public and private donors, up from just 250 participants when the initiative launched in 2022.

When the 25th of every month comes around, you begin to smile, AP quoted volunteer Ntombi Maponya as saying.

Economist Vera Songwe argues that embracing climate resilience could accelerate development rather than hinder it.

The good news is that green, sustainable and resilient growth is much faster growth, she said at an event ahead of the summit.

As the G20 convenes, Alexandra stands as both a warning and a blueprint  a place where climate vulnerability and community-driven solutions meet, and where the worlds richest and poorest nations will be asked to confront a shared future.

With inputs from agencies
The Trump administration has been quietly working with Russia on a 28-point peace plan for Ukraine, though its reception in Kyiv and Europe remains uncertain, said sources.

The Trump administration has been secretly consulting with Russia to develop a new plan to end the war in Ukraine, according to US and Russian officials speaking to Axios. The 28-point proposal draws inspiration from President Trumps push for an agreement in Gaza. A senior Russian official told Axios that he is optimistic about the initiative, though it is not yet clear how Ukraine or its European partners will respond.

Sources told the outlet that the plan is divided into four broad themes: peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, European security, and the future of US relations with both Russia and Ukraine. However, the approach to key disputes, including territorial control in eastern Ukraine, remains unclear. Russian forces have been making incremental gains but still hold far less territory than the Kremlin has demanded.

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Behind the scenes, Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff is leading the drafting process and has held extensive discussions with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev, a US official said. Dmitriev, who heads Russias sovereign wealth fund and plays a central role in diplomacy over Ukraine, told the outlet he spent three days in Miami from October 24 to 26 working closely with Witkoff and other Trump advisers. He said he was encouraged by the effort, adding that we feel the Russian position is really being heard.

Ukrainian meetings, White House briefings and European outreach underway

Witkoff had been scheduled to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday in Turkey but postponed the trip, Ukrainian and US officials said. A Ukrainian official confirmed that Witkoff met Zelenskys national security adviser, Rustem Umerov, earlier this week in Miami to discuss the plan. We know the Americans are working on something, the official said.

A White House official told Axios, The president has been clear that it is time to stop the killing and make a deal to end the war. President Trump believes that there is a chance to end this senseless war if flexibility is shown.

Dmitriev said the concept behind the proposal was to build on principles agreed upon by Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin during their meeting in Alaska in August. He described the emerging document as a wider framework addressing the Ukraine conflict, the restoration of USRussia ties, and Russias broader security concerns. He said the intention was to produce a written version before the next TrumpPutin meeting, though plans for a Budapest summit remain on hold.

He stressed that the effort was unrelated to a UK-led initiative to create a Gaza-style peace plan for Ukraine, which he argued would fail because it overlooked Russias positions. According to Dmitriev, the US side is now explaining the benefits of the new proposal to Ukrainian and European counterparts, against what he described as a backdrop of growing Russian battlefield gains.

A US official confirmed that the White House has started briefing European governments as well as Ukraine. The official said the administration believes there is a realistic chance of securing support from both Kyiv and European capitals, adding that the plan would be adjusted in response to feedback. We think the timing is good for this plan now. But both parties need to be practical and realistic, the official said.

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Under an executive order signed earlier this year, Trump instructed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to scale back the department drastically, in line with his long-standing goal of returning education control to states

US President Donald Trump holds a 'Make America Great Again' (Maga) hat as he attends the commencement ceremony at West Point Military Academy in West Point, New York, US, May 24, 2025. File Image/Reuters

President Donald Trump is accelerating his plan to dismantle the US Department of Education, but for now, he is leaving its massive student loan systemroughly $1.3 trillion in sizeuntouched, according to Newsweek.

Under an executive order signed earlier this year, Trump instructed Education Secretary Linda McMahon to scale back the department drastically, in line with his long-standing goal of returning education control to states. Downsizing has already begun: the department announced layoffs impacting about 1,300 staffnearly half of its workforce.

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Still, some core programmes run by the Education Department are being preserved.

According to the agency, functions such as managing federal student loans, distributing Pell Grants, and other student-aid and grant programmes will continue even as the department shrinks. McMahon has defended the cuts, saying the move is part of a broader effort to eliminate bureaucratic bloat while keeping funding flowing to students, educators, and states.

Critics, however, are raising alarms. Sameer Gadkaree, president of the Institute for College Access & Success, told Newsweek that the downsizing could cause outages or breakages in essential support systems. He warned that borrowers may find it harder to access accurate advice on repayment, while colleges could face confusion in student aid processes. National Education Association chief Becky Pringle echoed those concerns, saying that the dismantling could make higher education more expensive and out of reach for many families.

Theres also a political dimension.

Experts note that Trumps restructuring aligns with goals laid out in Project 2025, a conservative policy blueprint calling for a minimal federal role in education. But observers warn that a full shutdown of the Education Department would likely disrupt services for millions, especially vulnerable students.

Leaving the student loan system intact for now may reflect the administrations cautious approach. While Trump seeks to reduce the departments size, abandoning or destabilising the loan programme could spark serious backlash, given how many Americans rely on it. As of now, sources say he plans to keep loan management under government control, even if other department duties are redistributed.

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US President Donald Trump has indicated that he has finalised decisions about covert operations inside Venezuela. With 15,000 troops, 12 warships, and over 50 fighter planes in the region, the stage appears set for the next stage of US-Venezuela confrontation.

US President Donald Trump waves upon his arrival at Haneda airport in Tokyo, Japan. (Photo: Reuters)

US President Donald Trump has indicated that he has finalised decisions about covert operations inside Venezuela.

I sort of have made up my mind, yeah. I mean, I cant tell you what it would be but I sort of have, said Trump.

But Trump added that the administration may still hold talks with Nicolo Maduros regime as he thinks the Venezuelan ruler would like to talk.

The United States currently has around 15,000 troops, 12 warships, and more than 50 fighter planes in the international waters around Venezuela  the largest build-up in the region since the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Analysts say there are indications that Trump may order strikes as early as next week.

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The Trump administration has announced that the terrorist designation of Cartel de los Soles will be effective on Monday. As it has already declared Maduro as the cartels head, the designation will clear the way for military strikes as it will essentially declare the vast majority of Venezuelan government as drug cartel.

But analysts have long said that the Cartel de los Soles is likely not a real organised group. It is a general term that media and analysts have used to refer to the broader narcotics ecosystem in Venezuela instead of any specific cartel.

ALSO READ: Trump has sent warships to battle Venezuela's 'Soles' cartel. But it may not even exist.

Previously, there have been reports that Trump has been presented with various military options regarding Venezuela. These options are said to range from airstrikes on strategic sites and a land invasion to special forces missions to capture or kill Maduro.

What will Trump do in Venezuela?

Trump has approved Central Intelligence Agencys (CIA) covert measures inside Venezuela, according to The New York Times.

These CIA operations could be meant to prepare a battlefield for further action, sources told The Times.

At the same time, sources said that Trump has authorised a new round of back-channel negotiations with Maduro.

In previous rounds of such talks, Maduro had offered to step down in two to three years as Venezuela transitioned away from his rule, but the proposal was rejected by White House, according to sources.

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ALSO READ: Trump calls Maduro a cartel kingpin, but neither UN nor US names Venezuela in drug reports

There were no specific details of covert operations or whether they would be acted upon.

The Times reported that Trump has not yet authorised combat operations inside Venezuela, but this could mean that the next phase of operations possibly after Monday when the Soles cartel destination will be effective could combine ground action.

There is no clarity about the outcome that Trump wants in Venezuela.

Sources told The Times that Trump could agree to a deal for greater access to the Venezuelan oil or Maduro voluntarily giving up power. They also said that he could decide to forcibly remove Maduro as well.
As geopolitical competition between China and the United States deepens in the Pacific, Tuvalus prime minister reaffirmed his nations special relationship with Taiwan during a visit to Taipei on Tuesday. Tuvalu is one of just 12 countries, including three Pacific island states, that still maintain formal diplomatic ties with Taiwan, which Beijing claims as its own. China has recently stepped up pressure on Taipeis remaining allies to shift their recognition to Beijing.

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Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo, speaking at a welcome ceremony alongside Taiwan President Lai Ching-te outside the presidential office, said he had always been deeply impressed by the warmth of the reception he receives in Taiwan. Tuvalu indeed treasures its special relationship with Taiwan, a relationship that is built on shared democratic values, mutual trust and unwavering cooperation, he said. Teo added that the partnership had stood the test of time and remained durable and sustainable for over the past 46 years.

Tuvalu has announced that it will sign its first treaty with Taiwan during the visit. The agreement forms part of its diplomatic effort to secure formal international recognition of its perpetual statehood, including rights to lucrative fishing grounds, even as rising sea levels threaten to submerge large parts of its territory.

Taiwan emphasises strong friendship as climate threats rise

Tuvalus most recent national election was closely monitored by China after one leadership candidate suggested a review of ties with Taiwan. Addressing the ceremony, President Lai said the visit reflected the strong friendship between the two nations and their shared commitment to diplomatic cooperation. I am confident that through Prime Minister Teos visit, the partnership between our two countries will be further advanced. Together, we will face the challenges posed by geopolitics and climate change, he said.

Lai travelled to Tuvalu last December as part of a tour of Taiwans Pacific allies, including Palau and the Marshall Islands. Soon after Lais election victory last year, Nauru shifted diplomatic recognition from Taipei to Beijing. China maintains that Taiwan is one of its provinces without the right to state-to-state relations, a claim Taiwans government firmly disputes.

With a population of 11,000 spread across nine low-lying atolls and forecasts suggesting half of its main town could be underwater by 2050, Tuvalu relies on international partners, including Taiwan, for coastal protection. Taiwan has also contributed funding, alongside Australia, the United States and Japan, to connect Tuvalu to international telecommunications through a subsea cable.

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Rising ChinaTaiwan tensions fuel regional diplomatic friction

China maintains that democratic Taiwan is part of its territory and has repeatedly threatened to use force to bring the island under its control. Taipei, in turn, accuses Beijing of engaging in espionage and infiltration aimed at undermining its defences.

This long-running tension has spilt over into regional diplomacy, most recently triggering a sharp dispute between China and Japan. The feud erupted after Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi suggested that Tokyo could intervene militarily if Taiwan were attacked. Beijing reacted angrily to her remarks, prompting Japan to warn its citizens in China to stay alert and avoid large crowds.

The diplomatic spat has led China to advise its own citizens against travelling to Japan and has rattled Tokyos markets.
The UK government warned the Kremlin on Wednesday after saying a Russian military ship had entered British waters and directed lasers at UK pilots.

A screen displaying an image of Russian military ship Yantar, operating off the northern coast of Scotland, is pictured as Britain's Defence Secretary John Healey (unseen) delivers a speech in the Downing Street briefing room in central London on November 19, 2025. - AFP

A Russian spy ship has entered British waters and shone lasers at military pilots, the defence secretary has said, as he warned the UK was facing a new era of threat from hostile countries.

A Russian intelligence vessel has moved into British waters and directed lasers at UK military pilots, the defence secretary said on Wednesday, warning that Britain has entered a new era of threat from adversarial nations.

John Healey said the Yantar, a Russian surveillance ship, had crossed in and out of the UKs exclusive economic zone repeatedly over recent weeks  a pattern seen earlier this year as well.

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This time, however, Russian crew members reportedly used lasers against British pilots who were tracking the vessel, an action UK officials described as a notable escalation.

Healey told reporters in London that this marked the second time the ship had entered UK waters in 2024, following a previous incident in January.

The Yantar is on the edge of UK waters, north of Scotland, having entered the UKs wider waters over the last few weeks, he said during a press conference in Downing Street.

The UK military deployed a Royal Navy frigate and Royal Air Force planes to monitor and track this vessels every move, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots, he added.

He called the use of the lasers deeply dangerous and issued a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

We see you. We know what youre doing. If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready."

Healey said the Yantar was part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.

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Britain and NATO allies have expressed growing concern about the risk Moscow poses to offshore infrastructure following the sabotage in recent months of several undersea telecom and power cables.

Experts and politicians have accused Russia of orchestrating a hybrid war against the West as the two sides square off over Ukraine.

With inputs from agencies
Ukraines parliament voted on Wednesday to dismiss the energy and justice ministers after a major corruption investigation into the energy sector sparked the countrys biggest wartime political crisis.

German Galushchenko speaks at the Recovery Forum of the Ukraine Recovery Conference 2024 in Berlin, Germany, June 11, 2024. File Image- Reuters

Ukraines parliament voted on Wednesday to remove both the energy and justice ministers from their posts, following a sweeping corruption probe in the energy sector that has triggered the countrys most serious political crisis since the war began.

The investigation centres on an alleged $100 million scheme linked to contracting at the state-run nuclear agency, fuelling public outrage at the government at a time when Ukraine is still battling Russian troops.

Justice Minister German Galushchenko who held the energy portfolio from 2021 to 2025 and current Energy Minister Svitlana Hrynchuk had already stepped down after coming under pressure from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

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Both ministers have rejected accusations of involvement in the affair.

Opposition blocs have demanded harsher action after the inquiry shook Kyivs political establishment, urging a complete overhaul of the government and the removal of Zelenskyys influential chief of staff.

According to anti-corruption officials, the investigation whose main suspect is a former business associate of Zelenskyy extends to several other government bodies.

The scandal, combined with growing claims that the presidents office is using the courts to intimidate opponents, poses a major challenge for Zelenskyy nearly four years into Russias invasion.

These pressures come at a pivotal moment for Zelenskyy, who has remained widely supported and largely unopposed since the war erupted in 2022.

It also shows how strained the tightrope that Ukraine has been forced to walk, between centralising power to run the war and forging on with democratic reforms key to joining the EU, is becoming.

The latest case to trigger accusations that Zelenskyys team is weaponising the judicial system to intimidate critics was last months arrest of Volodymyr Kudrytsky, who led national energy company Ukrenergo until last year, on embezzlement accusations.

Kudrytsky and his backers reject the claims as retribution for criticising Ukraines strategy to defend the energy grid from Russian attacks.

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With inputs from agencies
The US has signalled to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Ukraine must accept a US drafted framework to end the war with Russia that proposes Kyiv giving up territory and some weapons.

The United States has communicated to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Ukraine is expected to agree to a US-crafted outline for ending the war with Russia, which would require Kyiv to relinquish some territory and certain weapons, Reuters reported citing two people familiar with the discussions.

The individuals, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the issue, said the framework also calls for reducing the size of Ukraines military, among other conditions. Washington wants Kyiv to accept the core elements of the proposal, the sources added.

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President Zelenskyy had earlier firmly ruled out giving up any part of the countrys territory, rejecting US suggestions that a peace agreement with Russia might involve land swaps.

Such a plan would represent a major setback for Kyiv as it faces further Russian territorial gains in eastern Ukraine and with Zelenskiy tackling a corruption scandal in which parliament dismissed the energy and justice ministers on Wednesday.

A senior Ukrainian official earlier told Reuters that Kyiv had received signals about a set of U.S. proposals to end the war that Washington has discussed with Russia. Ukraine has had no role in preparing the proposals, the source said.

Zelenskyy, who was holding talks in Turkey on Wednesday with President Tayyip Erdogan, is due to meet U.S. Army officials in Kyiv on Thursday.

Signs of a renewed U.S.-led push to end the war triggered the biggest jump in Ukraines government bond prices in months on Wednesday.

No face-to-face talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow since a meeting in Istanbul in July and Russian forces have pressed on with Moscows nearly four-year-old war in Ukraine, killing 25 people in strikes overnight.

Efforts to revive peace negotiations appear to be gaining momentum although Moscow has shown no sign of changing its terms for ending the war.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has long demanded Kyiv renounce plans to join the U.S.-led NATO military alliance and withdraw its troops from four provinces Moscow claims as part of Russia. Moscow has given no indication that it has dropped any of those demands and Ukraine says it will not accept them.

Meanwhile, A large Russian drone and missile barrage on Ukraines western city of Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including three children, authorities said Wednesday, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy went to Turkey in search of diplomatic support for his fight against Russias invasion.

The nighttime attack hit two nine-story apartment blocks in Ternopil, located around 200 kilometers (120 miles) from the Polish border, according to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. At least 73 people, including 15 children, were injured, emergency services said.

At least 19 among those killed were burned alive, including three children aged 5, 7 and 16, Klymenko said. Two dozen people are still unaccounted for, he said on national television, and rescuers expect to work at least two more days to complete the search of rubble.

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Russia fired 476 strike and decoy drones, as well as 48 missiles of various types, at Ukrainian targets overnight, Ukraines air force said. The bombardment included 47 cruise missiles, with air defences intercepting all but six of them, the air force said. Western-supplied F-16 and Mirage-2000 jets intercepted at least 10 cruise missiles, it said.

Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia (to stop the war) is insufficient, Zelenskyy wrote on the messaging app Telegram.

With inputs from agencies
In the manifesto, Machado, who has welcomed US pressure on the Maduro regime, insists that Maduro must be held accountable for alleged crimes against humanity, including torture, killings, and forced disappearances

Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado has won the 2025 Nobel Peace Prize. While her courage is undeniable and the Maduro regime has devastated Venezuela, a potential regime change may not guarantee a better future for ordinary citizens. (Reuters)

Venezuelas opposition leader Maria Corina Machado, who received a Nobel Peace Prize last month, has released a freedom manifesto outlining her vision for a new era in the country, one without its strongman, Nicolas Maduro.

The four-page document, dated November 9 but made public on Tuesday, emphasises the democratic rights she believes every Venezuelan is entitled to, including the right to vote, assemble, and freely express themselves.

Drawing inspiration from democratic frameworks like the US Declaration of Independence, the manifesto advocates for decentralising power from the government and returning it to the people. Every Venezuelan is born with inalienable rights that have been conferred upon them by our Creator, not by men, the document states.

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Machado, who read the manifesto in a 15-minute video from an undisclosed location, declared that Maduros stranglehold on power was nearing its end. Machado, driven into hiding after last years disputed election in which government-controlled electoral authorities declared Maduro the winner, voiced her hope for change.

A new Venezuela is emerging from the ashes, renewed in spirit and united in purpose, like a phoenix reborn  fierce, radiant, and unstoppable, she proclaimed.

In the manifesto, Machado, who has welcomed US pressure on the Maduro regime, insists that Maduro must be held accountable for alleged crimes against humanity, including torture, killings, and forced disappearances. Venezuela has consistently denied these allegations.

The manifesto came after US President Donald Trump floated diplomatic talks with Maduro. Trump said on Monday that he would be open to speaking directly with Maduro at a certain time, indicating he sees a possible path forward that doesnt rely on airstrikes or sending commandos to remove him.

However, the US president asserted his willingness to go after drug cartels using force in land in countries like Venezuela, Mexico and Colombia. We know their address. We know their address. We know everything about every one of them," Trump said.

Meanwhile, Maduro has responded to Trumps invitation to talks, saying he is ready to talk face to face with anyone in the United States who wants to talk to Venezuela.

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Ukrainian president focuses on just peace talks amid political crisis at home, while US delegation arrives in Kyiv on a fact-finding mission amid Moscows steadfast war demands

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy visits Anitkabir, the mausoleum of modern Turkeys founder Mustafa Kemal Ataturk, in Ankara, Turkey on Wednesday. Reuters

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday and is scheduled to meet US Army officials in Kyiv on Thursday, as reports emerge that Washington is discussing potential peace conditions with Moscow.

According to a Reuters report, citing a senior Ukrainian official, Kyiv has received signals regarding a set of US proposals aimed at ending the war, which Washington has been exploring directly with Russia. The official emphasised that Ukraine has not been involved in preparing the proposals.

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The news of a possible US-led push to restart negotiations sent Ukraines government bond prices surging Wednesday, marking the largest increase in months.

No direct talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow since a meeting in Istanbul in July, and Russian forces continue their nearly four-year campaign in Ukraine. Overnight strikes reportedly killed 25 people.

While efforts to revive peace discussions appear to be gaining momentum, Moscow has yet to indicate any flexibility on its conditions for ending the war.

Ukraines top priority is ending war

Zelenskyy met Erdogan following visits to Greece, France, and Spain, which proceeded despite a political crisis at home after parliament dismissed the energy and justice ministers on Wednesday over a corruption scandal.

Zelenskyy has maintained his focus on the war, telling reporters on Tuesday that he is preparing to reinvigorate negotiations and discuss with Erdogan ways to achieve a just peace for Ukraine.

Doing everything possible to bring the end of the war closer is Ukraines top priority, Reuters quoted Zelenskyy as saying on Tuesday.

Russian forces currently control about 19% of Ukrainian territory and continue to advance, carrying out frequent attacks on Ukrainian energy infrastructure as winter approaches.

Turkey, a Nato member that has maintained ties with both sides, hosted the first round of peace talks in the early weeks of the war in 2022. That remained the only such effort until this year, when US President Donald Trump launched a new bid to end the fighting.

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The Kremlin said Russian representatives would not take part in the talks but added that President Vladimir Putin was open to discussions with the United States and Turkey regarding the results of the meetings.

On Tuesday, Axios reported that Washington has been secretly working on a roadmap to end the war in consultation with Russia.

When asked about the report, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Wednesday: So far there are no innovations on this that can be reported to you.

Putins conditions

Putin has long insisted that Kyiv renounce its plans to join the US-led Nato alliance and withdraw its forces from four provinces that Moscow claims as part of Russia. There has been no indication that Moscow is willing to soften these demands, and Ukraine has made clear it will not accept them.

A US delegation, led by Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, is in Kyiv on a fact-finding mission, the US embassy in the city said. Army Chief of Staff General Randy George is also part of the delegation.

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According to Reuters, citing a source familiar with the matter, both Driscoll and George are scheduled to meet Zelenskyy on Thursday.

A Turkish source indicated that US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff could also visit Turkey, though there has been no official confirmation of such a trip from US authorities.

Another source at the Turkish Foreign Ministry said Turkish officials plan to meet only with Zelenskyy, and Witkoff is not expected to take part in the Ankara meetings.

With inputs from agencies
President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy landed in Turkey to revive stalled negotiations with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said he would travel to Turkey on Wednesday as part of an effort to revive negotiations with Russia on ending the war in Ukraine. (Reuters)

President Volodymyr Zelenskiyy arrived in Turkey on Wednesday in an effort to restart negotiations with Russia and seek to revive the United States involvement in diplomatic efforts to end the Russian invasion. However, the Kremlin said no Russian representatives will attend the talks in Turkey, with spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noting that ongoing communications are taking place without Russias participation.

Putins special envoy, Kirill Dmitriev, will also be absent from the meetings. Nevertheless, Moscow has signalled its willingness to continue dialogue with the US and Turkey regarding the conclusions of the discussions.

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Speaking during a visit to Spain on Tuesday, Zelenskiyy said Ukraine had drawn up new solutions that would be presented to its partners. He further added that he hopes to revive stalled peace negotiations, which have made little progress after multiple rounds of Russia-Ukraine talks in Istanbul earlier this year failed to produce a breakthrough. Moscow has refused to agree to a ceasefire and has instead continued advancing along the front while intensifying strikes on Ukrainian cities.

We are preparing to reinvigorate negotiations, and we have developed solutions that we will propose to our partners. Doing everything possible to bring the end of the war closer is Ukraines top priority, he said.

No face-to-face talks between Kyiv and Moscow have taken place since their meeting in Istanbul in July.

Earlier on Tuesday, a Turkish source said US special envoy Steve Witkoff would also travel to Turkey on Wednesday and take part in planned discussions with Zelenskyy. However, a separate source in Turkeys foreign ministry said President Tayyip Erdogan would meet only with Zelenskiyy in Ankara and not with Witkoff, reported Reuters.

Burhanettin Duran, head of the Turkish presidencys communications directorate, said in a post on X that Erdogan and Zelenskyy would discuss efforts to establish a ceasefire and work towards a lasting solution to the conflict during their talks in Ankara.

Past talks produced prisoner exchanges but no breakthrough

Ukraine and Russia have held several rounds of negotiations in Istanbul, leading to the exchange of thousands of prisoners of war and the return of the remains of fallen soldiers. Despite this, both sides have failed to make progress towards a ceasefire or a wider settlement to end a conflict that is now approaching its fourth year.

Zelenskyy said he also planned to discuss how to achieve what he called a just peace for Ukraine when he meets Erdogan on Wednesday.

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Secret negotiations emerge amid a new US pressure campaign on Russia

Trump sought to use his personal rapport with Russian leader Vladimir Putin to bring an end to the war in Ukraine but has yet to achieve any concrete progress.

In a sign of mounting frustration with Putin, Trump imposed sanctions on Russias two largest oil companies.

The Americans are now discussing a new wave of pressure, so it is logical to negotiate about diplomacy, the Ukrainian official noted.

The Trump administration has been secretly consulting with Russia to develop a new plan to end the war in Ukraine, according to US and Russian officials speaking to Axios. A 28-point proposal has been laid down, drawing inspiration from President Trumps push for an agreement in Gaza. A senior Russian official told the outlet that he is optimistic about the initiative, though it is not yet clear how Ukraine or its European partners will respond.
Earlier this week, OnePlus confirmed the launch of OnePlus Ace 6T, the companys next Ace series phone that will be the first phone to be powered by Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 arriving later this month in China.

Now the OnePlus Ace 6T has surfaced in Geekbench listing with the model number OnePlus PLR110 revealing the performance of the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 with 2 x 3.80GHz + 6 x 3.32GHz clock speeds, self-developed Oryon CPU architecture and same Adreno 840 GPU as 8 Elite Gen 5.

The single-core score of 3055 and a multi-core score of 10460 shows performance that is on par with the Snapdragon 8 Elite, while multi-core performance is slightly higher. Earlier reports revealed that some IP will also be the same as 8 Elite Gen 5.

OnePlus today confirmed that the phone feature 165Hz screen for 165fps gaming. The phone supports 100W SuperVOOC Flash Charge with a large battery starting with 8 (8000mAh?). The Ace 6T will be the only one to achieve this, said OnePlus China head Louis Jie.

Qualcomm today confirmed that the Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 will be introduced on November 26th. OnePlus Ace 6T is expected to go official on November 27th.
Our ultimate vision is whole person care, said Fred Hutch Cancer Centers Veena Shankaran, MD, MS, in her opening remarks at the Value in Cancer Care (VCC) Summit, held Thursday, November 6, at Seattles Bell Harbor International Conference Center. But there are barriers.

Patients struggle with navigating insurance benefits, financial stress, burnout and treatment side effects, she said, while providers have to deal with administrative overload, prior authorization, charting and EHR (electronic health record) frustrations.

Unfortunately, these and other challenges are set against the backdrop of  a data tsunami in health care, especially oncology, Shankaran said, pointing to precision medicine and genomics, adoption of AI in clinical care and the ever-increasing amount of information patients and providers need to consume and understand.

The VCC conference, put on by the Hutchinson Institute for Cancer Outcomes Research, or HICOR, focused on many of these challenges with speakers and attendees digging into burnout; information overload; pain management and substance use; the escalating costs of care, as well as mistrust, misinformation and missed care opportunities, particularly in the realm of palliative medicine.

But the annual meeting with a mission also offered practical solutions, valuable insights, a raft of resources and proven methods to help overcome, or at least ameliorate, many of them.

As always, Scott Ramsey, MD, PhD and Shankaran, co-directors of HICOR, opened the conference with a shout-out to the cancer patients, caregivers and advocates in attendance.

We hope youll engage with us by asking questions, sharing stories and meeting someone new, Ramsey said. Take advantage of this group which has people who touch cancer care from all different perspectives and ask them why theyre here. Most of all, lets celebrate this community. We all are here because of cancer patients. Lets celebrate them and celebrate what we do to try and make their lives better.
Courtesy of United Way of Mesa County

United Way of Mesa County Executive Coordinator Corbin Curtis and CMU Professor Kristen McGee, hold up a winter supply drive bin. The United Way of Mesa County is taking donations for a second winter supply drive until Thursday after an earlier successful drive that ended on Nov. 10.
Wed Wednesday

52 /32

Times of sun and clouds. Highs in the low 50s and lows in the low 30s.
Poland Suspects Russian Sabotage Behind Railway Explosion

By RFE/RL November 18, 2025

Poland suspects Russian intelligence services were behind an explosion on a major Polish railway line used to transport military goods and aid to Ukraine, an act Prime Minister Donald Tusk called an "unprecedented act of sabotage."

In the first comments where a Polish official suggested Moscow was behind the attack over the weekend, Jacek Dobrzynski, a spokesperson for Poland's special services minister, said the blast was an attempt "to destabilize" and "spread fear."

In a speech to Polish lawmakers after the extraordinary meeting, Tusk said that Poland had identified two people responsible for sabotage on its railway.

He added the suspects are Ukrainian nationals who collaborated with Russian intelligence and fled to Belarus.

"The most important information is that...we have identified the people responsible for the acts of sabotage," Tusk said in an address to lawmakers in Warsaw.

"In both cases we are sure that the attempt to blow up the rails and the railway infrastructure violation were intentional and their aim was to cause a railway traffic catastrophe."

Tusk added Poland is raising the security alert level in some parts of the country and is developing plans for the military to protect key infrastructure, including railways.

The blast on November 17 occurred on a line running from Warsaw to the eastern Polish city of Lublin, about 100 kilometers (60 miles) from the border with Ukraine.

Poland's prosecutors have qualified the sabotage as terrorism saying it could have been carried out at the behest of a foreign power.

The Kremlin on November 18 said Poland was giving in to a wave of "Russophobia" that is "flourishing" across Europe.

"Russia is accused of all manifestations of the hybrid and direct war that is taking place," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said in an interview with a reporter from Russian state television.



"In Poland, let's say, everyone is trying to run ahead of the European locomotive in this regard. And Russophobia, of course, is flourishing there."

Polish Defense Minister Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz announced security forces were reinforcing patrols to watch over critical areas of the railway network in the east of the country, such as bridges, viaducts, tunnels, stations, and control systems.

Polish officials, as well as those from other European nations, have long accused Moscow is accused of waging a "hybrid" campaign of sabotage and spying against those countries that have aided Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Last month, Polish authorities arrested eight people suspected of spying or planning attacks on behalf of Russia.

In January, Tusk accused Russia of plotting terror attacks against unspecified targets utilizing aircraft.

His comments came amid a growing number of suspicious, alarming, and unexplained incidents.

Some have involved international airlines and allegations Russia was seeking to plant secret explosives on cargo flights, while others involved ships that have disrupted undersea cables.

Moscow has routinely denied Western accusations of terror attacks, including arson, break-ins, poisoning, and attacks on individuals in the West.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/poland-suspects-russian- sabotage-in-railway-explosion/33594773.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Contracts

Contracts For Nov. 18, 2025

ARMY

STV HDR USMA JV, Douglassville, Pennsylvania, was awarded a $67,118,539 firm-fixed-price contract for the design of the Thayer Hall renovation at the U.S. Military Academy. Work will be performed in West Point, New York, with an estimated completion date of Nov. 18, 2030. Fiscal 2026 operation and maintenance, Army funds in the amount of $67,118,539 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New York District, is the contracting activity (W912WJ-26-C-A002).

Hendrickson Transportation LLC, Hamburg, Iowa, was awarded a $43,724,249 firm-fixed-price contract for repairs to Missouri River Levee R-562. Work will be performed in Peru, Nebraska, with an estimated completion date of Nov. 5, 2027. Fiscal 2026 Flood Control and Coastal Emergencies funds and 2026 civil construction funds in the amount of $43,724,248.60 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Omaha District, is the contracting activity (W9128F-26-C-A001).

Curtin Maritime Corp., Long Beach, California, was awarded a $22,631,733 firm-fixed-price contract for Baltimore Harbor and channels maintenance dredging. Work will be performed in Baltimore, Maryland, with an estimated completion date of April 15, 2026. Fiscal 2024 and 2025 civil operation and maintenance funds; and fiscal 2025 civil construction funds in the amount of $22,631,733 were obligated at the time of the award. U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Baltimore District, is the contracting activity (W912DR-26-C-A002).

NAVY

Raytheon Technologies, Raytheon Missiles and Defense, Tucson, Arizona, was awarded a $44,588,201 firm-fixed-price modification (P00007) to contract (N0001925C0071). This modification adds scope to procure recertification Lots Five and Six long lead hardware fin actuators and golden fin actuators and common mid-body and aft-body harnesses for tactical tomahawk all up round recertification and exercises the option for engineering support services for foreign military sales customers. Work will be performed in Tucson, Arizona (99%); and Vergennes, Vermont (1%), and is expected to be completed in April 2029. Fiscal 2024 weapon procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $13,799,399; fiscal 2025 weapon procurement (Navy) funds in the amount of $24,758,661; and Foreign Military Sales funds in the amount of $6,030,139, will be obligated at the time of award, none of which will expire at the end of the current fiscal year. This contract was not competed. Naval Air Systems Command, Patuxent River, Maryland, is the contracting activity.

DEFENSE LOGISTICS AGENCY

Sawasawa LLC,* Los Angeles, California, has been awarded a maximum $13,651,056 modification (P00028) exercising the fourth one-year option period of a one-year base contract (SPE1C1-22-D-1515) with four one-year option periods for moisture wicking t-shirts. This is an indefinite-delivery contract. The ordering period end date is Nov. 29, 2026. Using military service is Army. Type of appropriation is fiscal 2026 through 2027 defense working capital funds. The contracting activity is Defense Logistics Agency Troop Support, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

AIR FORCE

CORRECTION: The contract announced on Oct. 7, 2025, for Modern Technology Solutions, Inc., Alexandria, Virginia, for $111,006,400 was announced with the incorrect obligated fund types and the incorrect award date. The correct funds are fiscal 2025-2029, and the correct award date was Oct. 14, 2025. The Space Systems Command, Los Angeles Air Force Base, El Segundo, California, is the contracting activity.

https://www.defense.gov/News/Contracts/Contract/Article/4335133/

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Montana Guard, Sri Lanka sign memorandum of understanding for partnership

By Montana National Guard November 17, 2025

COLOMBO, Sri Lanka -- The United States and Sri Lanka have signed a Memorandum of Understanding, or MOU, formalizing the defense partnership between the Montana National Guard, the U.S. Coast Guard District 13 and the Sri Lanka Armed Forces under the Department of War National Guard Bureau's State Partnership Program, or SPP.

U.S. Ambassador Julie Chung; Brig. Gen. Trenton Gibson, adjutant general of the Montana National Guard, and Sri Lanka's Secretary of Defense Air Vice Marshal Sampath Thuyacontha signed the MOU Nov. 14 at the Ministry of Defense in Sri Lanka. The action marked a historic milestone in U.S.-Sri Lanka defense relations, underscoring both nations' shared commitment to regional stability, maritime security and professional military collaboration in the Indo-Pacific to advance the goal of peace through partnership.

Chung highlighted the significance of the new chapter in U.S.-Sri Lanka defense cooperation.

"From wildfire response and flood relief in Montana to peacekeeping and humanitarian efforts overseas, the Montana National Guard has a proud record of service and professionalism. This partnership with Sri Lanka, reaffirmed through today's MOU, strengthens our shared resolve for a secure Indo-Pacificbuilding trust, readiness and lasting peace through partnership," Chung said.

Thuyacontha said, "This agreement represents a progressive initiative that will further enhance Sri Lanka's defense capabilities and reinforce the enduring partnership with the United States. Over the years, our two nations have long cooperated in areas such as military training, disaster relief, and defense exchanges, fostering mutual understanding and trust. This framework will open new avenues for collaboration, promote capacity-building, and contribute to ensuring peace, security, and stability across the region."

Gibson said, "We are honored to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Sri Lankan counterparts. Together, we'll build strength, trust, and lasting bonds that enhance the security of both our nations."

The Montana-Sri Lanka partnership was established in 2021. The MOU formalizes a framework for deeper collaboration, strengthening professional ties and advancing joint security cooperation between the two nations.

The Montana National Guard brings extensive expertise in disaster response, homeland defense and global partnerships. Since 2021, the Montana National Guard and Sri Lanka's armed forces have deepened their partnership through joint training, expert exchanges and reciprocal visits, building trust and strengthening defense cooperation.

Notable recent engagements include ATLAS ANGEL 2024 and PACIFIC ANGEL 2025, when U.S. and Sri Lankan personnel worked to enhance humanitarian assistance and disaster response capabilities. Under the State Partnership Program, the U.S. Coast Guard District 13 also welcomed Sri Lanka Coast Guard officers to Seattle in August for joint training on oil spill response, including hazardous waste operations, shoreline recovery and on-water cleanupsharing expertise to safeguard sea lanes and protect the marine environment.

With this MOU, Sri Lanka joins a global network of 115 nations partnered with National Guard units in the U.S. under the SPP. The first series of joint activities under this MOU is planned for the summer of 2026, focusing on disaster response, maritime domain awareness and professional military education.

The Montana-Sri Lanka National Guard partnership will focus on joint training and professional exchanges to enhance interoperability and readiness; Maritime Domain Awareness cooperation, addressing trafficking, migration and narcotics interdiction; crisis response and humanitarian assistance, leveraging the Guard's dual military-civilian capabilities to include military medical and engineer activities; aviation operations, supporting mission success through skill and excellence; and military and civil disaster readiness and response as well as military-civilian coordination for disaster preparedness, response and recovery.

The SPP was created in 1993 by the U.S. Department of Defensenow the Department of Warafter the end of the Cold War to foster enduring relationships between U.S. state National Guards and partner nations. The SPP pairs the U.S. National Guard with foreign military counterparts to support defense security goals such as civil-military preparedness, critical infrastructure protection and defense modernization. Through exchange programs and joint capacity-building exercises, partners strengthen interoperability. Today, through the SPP, the National Guard of every state, three U.S. territories, and the District of Columbia is partnered with more than 100 partner countries  nations on every continent but Antarctica  promoting peace, stability, and mutual readiness through training, humanitarian assistance, and expertise exchange.

The Montana National Guard, headquartered in Helena, Montana, is composed of highly trained Soldiers and Airmen who serve their state and the nation. Its participation in the SPP reflects the Guard's dual mission: defending the United States while advancing global peace and security through trusted international partnerships.

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Joint Task Force-Bravo, 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), Provide Foreign Humanitarian Assistance to Jamaica

News | Nov. 17, 2025

By JointTask Force-Bravo public affairs

KINGSTON, Jamaica. -- Joint Task Force-Bravo, in concert with the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit (Special Operations Capable), provided critical humanitarian assistance to Jamaica following the aftermath of Hurricane Melissa from Oct. 31 to Nov. 13, 2025.

As part of the U.S. military response, nine aircraft were allocated to support the effort, including three CH-47 Chinooks and three UH-60 Black Hawks from the 1st Battalion, 228th Aviation Regiment, JTF-Bravo, and three CH-53E Super Stallions from the 22nd MEU(SOC), operating from the USS San Antonio. In total, the team flew 249 hours across 133 flights, transporting more than 779,000 pounds of life-saving assistance, including approximately 600,000 pounds of food and water, 179,000 pounds of equipment, and 428 critical personnel movements.

"JTF-Bravo is designed and trained to rapidly respond when our Nation or partners need us," said Col. Robert Snyder, JTF-Bravo commander. "What really stands out in a mission like this is the expertise and professionalism of our incredible service members  from the pilots and aircrew flying long hours to our troops on the ground managing logistics, airfield and flight operations, aircraft maintenance, and communications to ensure we accomplish the mission. I am very proud of our Soldiers, Airmen, Marines, and Sailors."

JTF-Bravo and 22nd MEU(SOC), in partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force and the U.S. State Department's Disaster Assistance Response Team, were able to facilitate critical airlift of essential relief supplies to dozens of hurricane-affected communities across Jamaica that were otherwise inaccessible.

"Watching our teams work side-by-side with the State Department, Jamaica Defence Force, and dozens of other organizations, it is clear to me that everyone shared the same goal: save lives and help the people of Jamaica," Snyder said. "Throughout the operation, I have been extremely impressed with the professionalism and dedication of the Jamaica Defence Force, and I look forward to working with them again. I know we made a difference for the people of Jamaica, and we strengthened our partnership with the Jamaica Defence Force."

To maximize the amount of time aircraft were able to operate on station, JTF-Bravo established a Forward Arming and Refueling Point (FARP), accessible to JTF-Bravo and 22nd MEU(SOC) aircraft. This capability delivered nearly 25,000 gallons of fuel, which allowed aircraft to immediately refuel upon returning from missions, enabling a quicker return to follow-on missions.

Furthermore, the 22nd MEU(SOC) facilitated safe operations of all aircraft through the employment of a Marine Air Traffic Control Mobile Team, who oversaw FARP operations, conducted surveys of helicopter landing zones, and established procedures for the safe loading of cargo onto aircraft.

"As a Combat Logistics Battalion deployed with a Marine Expeditionary Unit that serves as a crisis response force, providing foreign humanitarian assistance is what we do." said Lt. Col. Zach Hornbaker, commanding officer of Combat Logistics Battalion 26, 22nd MEU(SOC). "I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to accomplish working alongside Joint Task Force-Bravo and our partners in the Jamaica Defence Force."

Hurricane Melissa made landfall on Oct. 28, 2025, in Jamaica as a Category 5 with winds sustained at 185 MPH. Within 72 hours, U.S. service members from JTF-Bravo were on location to reinforce the U.S. Department of State-led response, assessing the needs of the affected areas and coordinating logistic and airlift support to get emergency food, water, shelter materials, and other relief supplies where they were needed most.

"The partnership between the Jamaica Defence Force and JTF-Bravo, along with the 22nd MEU, is forged in a shared commitment to regional security," said Lt. Col. Morton Stewart, bridge executive officer of the Maritime Air and Cyber Command, Jamaica Defence Force. "This was proven by the immediate deployment to Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa, swiftly integrating into the JDF response mechanism to address Jamaica's needs. This united effort showcases a resilience that not only thrives on interoperability, but also the incredible professionalism of the United States military, strengthening the very foundation of our bilateral cooperation to overcome any adversity."

For more than 50 years, U.S. Southern Command has worked to build regional and interagency partnerships to ensure the continued stability of the Western Hemisphere. For more than 40 years, JTF-Bravo has supported U.S. military and humanitarian operations, providing critical airlift, medical, logistics, and security assistance to partner nations. JTF-Bravo functions as U.S. Southern Command's rapid response element, enhancing regional security, promoting stability, and strengthening partnerships through disaster response, joint exercises, and capacity-building. The 22nd MEU is a forward-deployed, rapid response force with aviation, ground, and logistics combat elements. For this mission, its combat logistics battalion was task-organized to deliver foreign humanitarian assistance, alleviate suffering, and help Jamaican communities recover from the devastating impact of the storm. The 22nd MEU came ashore to supplement JTF-Bravo with additional logistical and aviation support, ensuring rapid, flexible assistance in line with its core mission set.

For more information on Joint Task Force-Bravo and 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit support to Jamaica visit:

DVIDS: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/HURRICANEMELISSA

Joint Task Force-Bravo: https://www.jtfb.southcom.mil/

22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit: https://www.22ndmeu.marines.mil/

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China releases latest findings from second Qinghai-Tibet Plateau scientific expedition

Xinhua) 13:52, November 19, 2025

LHASA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China's second Qinghai-Tibet Plateau scientific expedition has yielded significant practical outcomes, with its top 10 application achievements officially released on Wednesday in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.

Led by Yao Tandong, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the achievements span critical areas including ecological conservation, disaster prevention, resource exploration, carbon accounting, traffic safety, and border area development.

Notable results include scientific support for legislation on plateau ecological protection, establishment of a platform for Earth observation and early warning, and innovative technologies for disaster prevention and control in permafrost regions, aiding major infrastructure projects like the Sichuan-Xizang Railway and expressways.

The plateau is currently exhibiting a trend of warming, wetting and "greening" that amplifies both regional and global climate impacts, Yao noted. It was also found that the water supply capacity of the "Asian Water Tower" has significantly risen, with runoff projections showing increases of up to 49 percent by the end of the century, crucial for water security for billions.

Since its launch in August 2017, the second expedition has mobilized over 3,000 research teams and more than 30,000 personnel, conducting comprehensive surveys across the entire plateau region.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Zhong Wenxing)
Jeremy Lewin, Senior Bureau Official for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs, and Religious Freedom; Daniel O'Day, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Gilead Sciences; and Peter Sands, Executive Director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria

US Department of State

Special Briefing

Jeremy P. Lewin, Senior Official

Under Secretary for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs, and Religious Freedom

Mignon Houston, Deputy Spokesperson

November 17, 2025

MS HOUSTON: Good morning and welcome, everyone, to today's press call on the America First Global Health Strategy and its groundbreaking partnership to expand access to lenacapavir in high-burden HIV countries. This initiative, led by the Department of State in close coordination with Gilead Sciences and the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria, is a powerful demonstration of what is possible when government, industry, and global institutions unite around a shared purpose. Today's press call provides important updates following our on-the-record call in September, when this partnership was first announced. Since then our collective work has continued with urgency and a shared belief in the transformative potential of this collaboration.

I am Mignon Houston, the deputy spokesperson for the Department of State, and I'll serve as your moderator for today's call. Before we begin, I would like to go over a few ground rules. Today's call is on-the-record, and all remarks may be attributed to each speaker by name and title. The contents of this call are embargoed until 5:00 a.m. Eastern Time. Once again, the contents - we ask the contents are embargoed until 5:00 a.m. Eastern Standard Time.

We are honored to welcome back our three distinguished speakers for the on-the-record remarks and Q&A. Our first speaker, Jeremy Lewin, senior official for Foreign Assistance, Humanitarian Affairs, and Religious Freedom here at the Department of State; Daniel O'Day, chairman and chief executive officer of Gilead Sciences; Peter Sands, executive director of the Global Fund to Fight AIDS, Tuberculosis, and Malaria.

At this time, we are ready to begin our on-the-record opening remarks, and we'll begin with our senior official from the Department of State, Mr. Jeremy Lewin. Jeremy, you have the floor.

MR LEWIN: Thank you. I'm sure there'll be many questions. I just wanted to start out with a real thanks to the team that's worked really, really hard on this when we announced this initiative in September. This is really a groundbreaking partnership. I think our first collective press briefing together was, I think Mignon said, one of the first times that they had had folks from the Global Fund, from Gilead, in our press room doing a joint briefing - so really just sort of underscoring how unique and close the collaboration has been on this.

We initially said, at that time, that we'd be providing at least 2 million doses, and by 2028, and we are proud that with the progress we've made we think we're going to hit that target sometime in sort of mid-to-early 2027. We're going to be procuring more than half a million doses collectively next year with a significant increase in 2027 as Gilead continues to increase its manufacturing capacity.

And so today, the first doses are being delivered in Eswatini and Zambia - high-burden countries. And just as a moment of reflection, this is really - the Secretary always talks about moving at the speed of relevance, and this is an example of that. I mean, the Trump Administration championed this medication. It was approved by President Trump's FDA in June, and less than six months later we're delivering the first doses in high-burden countries in Africa in the same year that it's approved and delivered in the United States. And so that's - a huge amount of thanks is due to Gilead, who obviously developed this medication, is providing it at no cost as part of their tremendous philanthropy that the organization and company does; but also to the work of the folks that we have on our PEPFAR team, who have engaged with the Global Fund, are working hard, and the financial commitments that we've made to backstop this.

This is an example of we're creating a new innovation fund as part of the America First Global Health Strategy, which we also announced in September, and I think this is a prime example of what we can do to accelerate progress on global health through championing American innovation and American enterprise.

Gilead is an American company, a proud American company, and this medication is truly - it's a remarkable breakthrough. It's more than 99 percent effective, and that has particular utility when it comes to mother-to-child transmission of HIV. The Trump Administration has a goal of ending - substantially ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV by the time that President Trump ends his second term. And we think we can hit that and achieve that goal precisely because of investments and innovations like this. Twice yearly, with two shots, you can cover the period in which a woman is pregnant and breastfeeding, which is just a tremendous breakthrough. And so, thanks to innovation like this we can bend the curve of the epidemic, and ultimately, as we bring infections down and are able to deliver commodities like this scale, we can achieve the administration's goal of allowing countries in Africa particularly, but all of our health recipient countries, to achieve genuine self-reliance.

So, we're baking in innovative investments like this into our ongoing negotiations around our health - bilateral health compacts, which are really the star of the show in our America First Global Health Strategy, but our investments in innovation are equally if not more important. And so, we're really grateful to be here talking about what we're doing and how we're doing it really quickly, because we know when it comes to fighting diseases like HIV we really want to make sure that we act with the requisite urgency, and that's exactly what this State Department under Secretary Rubio is doing.

MS HOUSTON: That's excellent. Thank you, Senior Official Lewin. We always welcome you here with our bullpen. We want to thank you for your remarks and your continued leadership in spearheading this accelerated progress.

Next, we are also privileged to have on-the-record remarks from Gilead's chairman and executive officer, Daniel O'Day. Mr. O'Day, you have the floor.

MR O'DAY: Thank you very much and hello, everybody. Just following up on Jeremy's comments, this is a really important moment in the history of HIV. This is the first time in the history that a new HIV medicine is reaching the continent of Africa in the same year as it was approved in the United States. I think this is a bold new bar for global access and something that we, at Gilead Sciences, have been working on really hand-in-hand with the extraordinary science which is lenacapavir.

And I just want to focus on aspects of our strategy, which were really around speed and partnership. And Jeremy just mentioned the importance of the partnership, because it's through these two things - keeping speed in mind, and partnership - that allow us to reach the communities most affected around the world with a groundbreaking innovation to fight disease. And all of us at Gilead Sciences are really proud that because of our work with the U.S. Government, via PEPFAR and the Global Fund, we can provide lenacapavir at no profit to Gilead to countries with the highest burden of HIV - again, in the same year it was approved in the United States.

It's very meaningful that some of the first supplies are reaching Eswatini, the country with the highest incidence of HIV in the world, and we're very pleased that lenacapavir, the world's first twice-yearly HIV prevention, is now going to be part of the efforts to end HIV in this country and many other countries in Sub-Saharan Africa.

So, with that, I will turn it back to the moderator and be willing to take your questions as well. Thank you.

MS HOUSTON: Thank you, Chairman O'Day. Just an excellent example of partnership, and we certainly look forward to hearing more from you.

Our final on-the-record remarks will be delivered by Peter Sands, the executive director of the Global Fund. Mr. Sands, you have the floor.

MR SANDS: Thank you, and it's great to be alongside both Jeremy and Dan talking about what is an extraordinarily exciting moment in the history of the fight against HIV/AIDS.

Look, innovation is the key to making accelerated progress against the deadliest infectious diseases. To maximize the impact of such innovations, one needs to get them out to the people who can benefit the most, at speed and at scale. And that's exactly what is happening here - first, with the arrival of lenacapavir in Zambia and Eswatini, and then with the planned rollout across a number of different countries, at scale.

And this is testimony to partnership - to the partnership between the Global Fund, Gilead, the United States, and also the partnership with the ministries of health in Eswatini and Zambia, and the communities and civil society groups on the ground that play such a big role in ensuring it gets to the people who can benefit the most.

If I can be excused a moment of advertisement. The Global Fund's replenishment is at the end of this week, and actually this moment, this accelerated path to ensuring that an innovation is brought to the people who need it most to maximize impact, is a great example of how the Global Fund as a unique public-private partnership with the generous support of donors, led by the U.S., makes a big difference saving lives, reducing the burden of disease, and putting countries on the path to self-reliance.

I'll hand it back to you.

MS HOUSTON: Wonderful. Thank you, Executive Director Sands, for your historic engagement with the Department of State. You've also set the stage nicely for our question-and-answer portion.

I'd like to ask all of our participants on the call who would like to ask a question to remember you would need to raise your hand, use the raise your hand feature, to be called upon, and unmute yourself before speaking. Once again, this is a call that is on the record, so the Q&A portion will remain on the record as well. If you encounter any technical difficulties unmuting yourself, I will need to move on to the next person in the queue, and if we have time, I'll come back, circle back to you.

So, at this time, I'm looking at our queue to see who we have with hands raised. I'm going to call on our first hand that I see, which is from Carmen Paun. Carmen, if you can unmute yourself, give the name of your outlet, and begin with your question.

QUESTION: Thank you so much, Mignon. And thank you, all, for doing this. Two questions if I may. The first one is: can you tell us how many doses of lenacapavir will reach Zambia and Eswatini? And are - they're being delivered today as we speak, or is it this week, over the next few days? And the second question, if I may, since Peter just mentioned this, I was wondering if there's been any update on the U.S. pledge, if any, to the Global Fund for their next replenishment, which I know is happening on Friday. Thank you.

MR LEWIN: Let me just answer the question about the U.S. pledge to the Global Fund. We are in the midst of active consultations with Congress, and as Peter mentioned, the replenishment will close soon, and we will be making a pledge. We'll announce that in the coming days, after our consultations with Congress.

MR SANDS: On the question of volumes, these first batches, I think - correct me if I'm wrong, Dan - are 500 doses to both Zambia and Eswatini. But these will be very quickly followed up by further doses. This is just the absolute sort of initial deliveries, and the deliveries have been made.

MR LEWIN: Yeah, and 

MR O'DAY: Yes, that's - oh, go ahead, Jeremy.

MR LEWIN: Oh, no. I was just going to say they have been made, and an important part of that is also training local health care workers to be able to administer these doses. And so that process is ongoing with these first doses. The Global Fund, and PEPFAR are helping, and with Gilead's help as well, to understand how to administer this medication. And as local health care workers become well-versed in administering it, additional doses will follow.

MR O'DAY: Yeah, that's great. I'll just add my voice. This is Dan O'Day. So, Peter's numbers is - are correct for these two countries. I just want to point out that Gilead - at the moment that we knew that we had a medicine - has been ramping up supply. We do have supply to send to markets when they have the appropriate regulatory approval, and obviously the replenishments for Eswatini and Zambia. Our commitment in working with the State Department and PEPFAR is to have up to two million doses between now and when voluntary license, royalty-free, generic manufacturers will be able to supply these countries, which we anticipate to be around 2027. But to be clear, our ability to supply is not constrained and will be driven by the needs on the ground and our work with our partners.

MS HOUSTON: Okay. Great. That question was, again, from Carmen Paun from Politico. Next, we're moving to Reuters, Daphne Psaledakis. Daphne, if you can unmute yourself, you may proceed with your question.

Daphne, can we ask you to try to unmute yourself once again? We're unable hear you.

Okay. Daphne, we'll come back to you. Our next question is from Jonathan Lambert from NPR. Jonathan, if you're unable to unmute yourself, we invite you to begin your question at this time.

QUESTION: Hello. Thanks for taking my question. I'm wondering, one, if you could speak to - a little bit more about who is training the health care workers to administer and sort of how that's being funded. And then also I wonder about the regulatory environment in other affected Sub-Saharan African countries and if regulatory approval is expected soon or if that's a potential hurdle to getting this to other countries. Thank you.

MR SANDS: I'm happy to jump in on the training. The model varies slightly depending on which country you're talking about, but fundamentally we have deep involvement of the ministries of health and sometimes other technical partners. But fundamentally, it's the ministries of health that are taking on the main responsibility for ensuring that their health workers are able to administer these injections effectively.

MR LEWIN: And 

MR SANDS: In terms of the - sorry, Jeremy.

MR LEWIN: Oh no, I was just going to say, to build on that, that's exactly the model, and that's why the Global Fund is an important partner in our America First Global Health Strategy. We're delivering commodities at scale and we're helping work with innovative companies like Gilead to provide sort of a global backstop and to help them stimulate demand and manufacturing capacity. But ultimately, it's the local health ministries that have to be responsible for this. And so, this is part of our pathway to self-reliance, is making sure that the national health care systems become responsible for administering these doses and integrating them into their national health care systems, rather than running a parallel delivery system.

MR SANDS: And the regulatory process.

MR O'DAY: Yes. Oh, yeah. I was going to -

MR SANDS: I was going to say, Dan - I was going to say - (laughter) - (inaudible) to that one.

MR O'DAY: Yeah.

MR SANDS: It's complicated.

MR O'DAY: No, I - yeah, but happy to update you on where we stand. Gilead is responsible for the regulatory approvals throughout Sub-Saharan Africa. So maybe just to bring you up to speed - in November, the Zambia Medicine Regulatory Authority approved lenacapavir for prevention of HIV as PrEP. And then also following that, there was approval by the South African Health Product Regulatory Authority.

In terms of Eswatini, there is no registration process so a separate regulatory review is not required, but products can be imported under an import authorization issued by the Ministry of Health that relies upon stringent regulatory authority approval from the FDA or EMA and WHO prequalification. So again, it's quite extraordinary that this marks the first time that countries in Sub-Saharan Africa received access to an HIV prevention medicine in the same year as the U.S.

Now, obviously, we are working with other governments at this time, in partnership with the Global Fund and PEPFAR. I can let you know that in November we submitted market authorizations to Rwanda and Tanzania, following October submissions in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. So, these regulatory reviews are generally expected to take up to about 90 working days, and we'll be working very closely - obviously - with the Global Fund and PEPFAR, prioritizing the additional Sub-Saharan African countries to receive first deliveries of lenacapavir between now and early 2026.

MS HOUSTON: Next, we will move to our next person in the queue. We have Mike Stobbe. Mike is from the Associated Press. Mike, you have the floor if you're able to unmute yourself.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks. Can you hear me?

MS HOUSTON: Yes, we can.

QUESTION: Great. Thanks. Just want to - just a couple clarification questions. It's 500 doses each - one - to both each of the countries that you talked about, and you've said they've already been delivered. When were they delivered, and can you say more about when you anticipate that the first doses will go to patients? I wasn't clear on that. You said there's some training going on, but how long until that happens?

MR SANDS: Dan, you may have the precise details on the dates of delivery, but my understanding was that most of these doses were delivered to Eswatini and Zambia during the course of the last few days - several days - and that we should be seeing injections actually administered for - to patients sort of from tomorrow.

MR O'DAY: Yeah, that's correct. So to clarify the question, it is 500 doses to each country, not combined, and they're - the medicine is in country right now. And I think - Peter, you're probably better versed or others on the call exactly when the first administration will occur.

MR SANDS: Yeah, it's definitely this week though. Because the training actually began - some of the training actually began before the doses arrived in country so it's not like they've just started from a cold start.

MS HOUSTON: Okay. Mike, if that's the conclusion of your question, we're going to circle back to Daphne. We also have a few minutes left for additional hands in the chat, if you have questions for our panelists. Daphne, if you're able to unmute yourself, we'd love hear your question at this time.

QUESTION: Hi. Are you able to hear me?

MS HOUSTON: We are.

QUESTION: Okay. Not sure what happened the first time, but thank you for doing this. I wanted to ask - you've mentioned PEPFAR. Can you clarify the role that PEPFAR is playing in this and more generally how much money is still going to PEPFAR? And is this meant to replace the funding that was going to fight - going to fighting HIV that PEPFAR was receiving? Thank you.

MR LEWIN: Sorry, I'm not sure I understand what exactly your question is. I mean, I think the Secretary has been very clear that PEPFAR remains ongoing. We are working hard on implementing our new America First Global Health Strategy, which is moving a lot of our implementing sort of mechanisms away from the NGOs, and instead giving local control to national health care governments through these bilateral compacts that require co-investment and regulatory harmonization and a bunch of things that are going to help countries achieve self-reliance.

So, I think PEPFAR is ongoing. Obviously, Congress appropriates a very significant amount of money, about $6 billion a year, to PEPFAR. And so, our contribution to this initiative is from the money that's appropriated to PEPFAR as part of the new innovation fund that we've set up within the broader PEPFAR budget.

MS HOUSTON: Okay. Thank you, Daphne. I'm going to move a hand that I have not seen yet and that's Adam Taylor. Adam, if you're able to unmute yourself, you have the floor at this time.

QUESTION: Great, thank you. And can you hear me?

MS HOUSTON: Yes, we can.

QUESTION: Great. And this is another point of clarification. I believe I heard a reference to the South African Health Products Regulatory. I just wanted to check - is that - will doses be going to South Africa, or is that just in relation to Eswatini? Thank you.

MR LEWIN: The United States will not be contributing doses to South Africa. Obviously, we encourage every country, especially countries like South Africa, that have significant means of their own to fund doses for their own population and this innovative drug, American-made drug, that Gilead has developed. U.S.-funded doses will not be going to South Africa.

MS HOUSTON: Okay, great. That question was from The Washington Post. We'll move next to Ed Silverman. Ed Silverman, if you're able to unmute yourself, Ed is from STAT News. Okay, Ed, we're unable to hear you 

QUESTION: Can you hear me now?

MS HOUSTON: Yes, we can. That's great.

QUESTION: Yes. And I'm with STAT News. Thanks for taking the question. Dan, if you could just go - you went a little fast. You listed some countries. And I just wanted to ask you to clarify, because I know previously you said that Gilead was looking to pursue a very rapid process in getting medication authorized by regulators in 18 countries. Could you give us an update on - in addition to the countries you mentioned, I think there was authorization in October, November, if I heard that right. Again, if you can repeat those countries, and could you give us an update on where you're at? Are you still looking at 18 countries? Has that expanded to a larger number? In any event, how soon do you expect to be able to get authorization in all of those 18 countries?

MR O'DAY: Thanks. Yes, sorry if I went too fast before. But I can confirm that we are - we continue to prioritize registrations in 18 high-burden countries representing 70 percent of the HIV epidemic. And obviously, we won't stop there; this is the prioritization. We will - we are working with all countries in the regulatory systems to get lenacapavir approved.

Back to where we stand with the registrations, and I'll slow down here a little bit. But we've already filed in Botswana, Kenya, Malawi, Namibia, and Rwanda, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe - with additional submissions based upon the particular government's plan by the end of 2025 for the remaining 18 high-burden countries. And just to clarify also the previous questions, we do have approvals - have been received in South Africa and Zambia, and we'll be working with partners for those countries as well. Hopefully that helps.

MS HOUSTON: Perfect. And that question was from Ed Silverman from STAT News. Thank you, Ed.

We'll move now - we have time for - we'll take one additional question. Our next question I'll give to Julia Jester. Julia is from MSNBC.

QUESTION: Hi. Thanks so much for doing this briefing. I wanted to ask - you mentioned that this is a shift away from relying on NGOs as implementing partners; a lot of the reform at State and USAID have been to streamline efficiency and cost effectiveness. I was wondering if you could just kind of chat about the overall cost of this partnership and new program, and the way that the current (inaudible) system is perhaps enabling the local governments to take on more versus relying on NGOs and nongovernmental entities. So, if you could just kind of speak to the financial aspect as we look at how this administration has been saving costs. Thank you.

MR LEWIN: Thanks. It's a great question. So I mean, if you back up and think about the money that we spend on our health programs - PEPFAR and the other global health programs that we have - 30, 35 percent is spent on direct frontline costs. So that means commodities, which is about 20 percent, and then all of the frontline health care workers, which is another, like, 10 to 15 percent. And the rest of the pie goes to technical assistance and NGO overhead and stuff like that in the old system, right? And so, investments like this, I mean, really innovative and high-impact commodities, are relatively cheap compared to all the overhead of having all these NGOs profiting off of the health care system, right?

So when we remove all of those costs, and put delivery back in the national health care system - so I mean, in some of these health care compacts, some of the stuff we're working on is finally getting HIV treatment on the national health care reimbursement system and insurance system for the first time, or helping to support the rollout of a modernized medical record system that allows much better data granularity and much more efficiency in the delivery of care.

What we see with the NGOs often is that what we'll do is you contract with the NGO, and then they actually bid out and they use a faith-based hospital or a national health care system as the delivery mechanism anyway, and they're just taking sort of some money as a middleman. So, when you cut out all of those costs and you put responsibility where it belongs, which is in the hands of the national health care system and the government, what you see is you actually have a lot more money available. You have efficiencies and you have cost savings, but you also have more money to invest in groundbreaking commodities and medical innovations, biopharmaceutical innovations, like lenacapavir. So actually, the - Gilead is generously donating this drug to us without profit for delivery in these high-burden countries, but the cost of this medication, the cost of commodities generally pales in comparison to all the waste that we saw with the technical assistance and NGO overhead running those parallel delivery systems.

So, I think the hope with the strategy here is that - and this is what we're seeing in the negotiations that we have ongoing with 70 countries right now - is that we actually have more to contribute to commodities and more to contribute to innovation by really focusing the delivery on the national health care systems.

MS HOUSTON: Okay, we'll end today's call with one final question. This looks like it's going to go back to Jonathan Lambert from NPR. Jonathan, I'd like to you to round us out.

QUESTION: Thank you. I wonder if you can say anything about whether the first doses that are being delivered will be targeted to certain populations and if they come with kind of strings attached or if it'll just be up to the national departments of health. Thanks.

MR LEWIN: I think that the Trump Administration is focused on mother-to-child transmission. Some these doses are funded by the Global Fund. Some are funded by the Department of State and our integrated supply line in most of these places - Eswatini, Zambia. So, they're not coming with formal constraints, but at least from the State Department, PEPFAR perspective, we are encouraging countries to allocate as many doses as possible to mother-to-child transmission prevention.

MR SANDS: To add from a Global Fund perspective, I mean, the fundamental approach the Global Fund takes is to follow the epidemiology. So, we will be working - we are working with our in-country partners to work out where we can get the most impact from deployment of this incredibly powerful tool. And that does mean focusing very much on the people who are most at risk, and that will differ depending on which country you're talking about.

MS HOUSTON: That's great. Everyone, I just want to say thank you on behalf of the Department of State. This has been a fantastic call with wonderful turnout from our press colleagues. To our panelists, once again, we appreciate your time in providing insight on the speed and progress of this important global health initiative and partnership. We are grateful to our press contacts, once again, for joining and for your invaluable contributions to U.S. health policy.

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Security Council Authorizes International Stabilization Force in Gaza, Adopting Resolution 2803 (2025)

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

10046th Meeting (PM)

SC/16225

17 November 2025

The Security Council today endorsed the United States-backed "Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict", welcomed its establishment of the Board of Peace and authorized the Board and Member States working with it to establish a temporary International Stabilization Force in Gaza.

Adopting resolution 2803 (2025) (to be issued as document S/RES/2803(2025)) by a vote of 13 in favour to none against, with 2 abstentions (China, Russian Federation), the Council also authorized the Board and Member States participating therein to enter arrangements necessary to achieve the Comprehensive Plan's objectives and to establish operational entities to this end. Such entities will operate under the Board's transitional authority and oversight.

The Council also underscored the importance of the full resumption of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip in cooperation with the Board, in a manner consistent with relevant international legal principles, through cooperating organizations  including the United Nations  and ensuring such aid is not diverted by armed groups.

Further, the text states that, as the Force establishes control and stability, the Israel Defense Forces will withdraw from the Gaza Strip based on standards, milestones and timeframes linked to demilitarization that will be agreed between specified parties  "save for a security perimeter presence that will remain until Gaza is properly secure from any resurgent terror threat".

Additionally, the Council decided that the Board, along with international civil and security presences authorized by today's resolution, shall remain authorized until 31 December 2027, subject to further Council action. The organ also requested the Board to provide it with a written progress report every six months.

Adoption Marks 'New Course' for Middle East

Before the vote, the representative of the United States  the author of today's text  stressed that it is "no mere paper promise, but a lifeline". The Force, he said, will deploy under a unified command to secure Gaza's streets, oversee demilitarization, protect civilians and escort aid through safe corridors  "all while Israel phases out its presence and a vetted Palestinian police force takes on a new role", he said. While noting concerns expressed over lack of clarity on certain points, he nevertheless warned against hesitation and emphasized: "A vote against this resolution is a vote to return to war."

After it was adopted, he thanked Council members for "joining us in charting a new course in the Middle East for Israelis and Palestinians and all the people of the region alike". Stating that the resolution provides troop-contributing countries with a framework to move forward with the International Stabilization Force and global financial institutions with mechanisms to channel investment, he said: "The former will support a region free from Hamas' grip, and the latter Gaza's reconstruction and development."

Noting public endorsement of today's text by Arab and Muslim countries, Algeria's representative expressed support for its core objectives of maintaining the ceasefire and creating conditions for Palestinians to exercise their inalienable right to self-determination and Statehood. Further, he said that the establishment of the Force is a "major development" that will enable the "complete withdrawal of Israeli occupying forces". The representative of the United Kingdom also noted the strong international support for the Comprehensive Plan and observed that today's text "takes that Plan forward".

The representative of the Republic of Korea, similarly, noted that the Comprehensive Plan is "accepted by the parties" and backed by key regional actors. While welcoming the resolution's major elements  the Board, the Force and full resumption of humanitarian aid  he stressed that these must be further developed through close Council engagement. Today's adoption, he urged, "is not the end, but a new beginning".

Concerns over Text's Ambiguities, Absence of Explicit Two-State Language

More critical was China's representative, who stressed that the text was "vague and unclear" on critical elements, such as the structure, composition and terms of reference for both the Board and the Force. "Palestine is barely visible in the draft," he added, also pointing out that the resolution offers "no effective participation" for the United Nations despite the Organization's "ample experience" in post-conflict recovery. He further stressed that the text was "not a product of full consultations" as its penholder "rushed" the Council. As such, China abstained.

Others also pointed to the text's lack of detail on several important points. Slovenia's representative called for "clear terms of reference" for the Board, stressing the need for "inclusivity, transparency and good faith". Somalia's representative expressed concern over its "limited clarity" regarding the role of the United Nations, as well as that of the Palestinian Authority. He expressed further concern over the "absence of explicit reference to the two-State solution", underscoring that a "just and lasting peace can only be achieved by recognizing and upholding" that arrangement.

"The continuing occupation of the Palestinian territory is a violation of international law," declared the representative of Guyana, underscoring that the two-State solution must "remain the centrepiece of all peace efforts in Palestine". She, too, pointed to a lack of clarity regarding the Palestinian Authority's role in Gaza's recovery and reconstruction, stressing that it must have an "integral" role in these processes  "and that role should not be subject to preconditions that are not measurable".

France's representative stressed that implementation of the text should be framed in a "clear political and legal context" that includes the implementation of the two-State solution; the swift return of a reformed, strengthened Palestinian Authority in Gaza with the support of the international community; the exclusion of Hamas from any governance role; and the unity of Gaza and the West Bank. To that end, "any demographic or territorial change to the enclave or any occupation of Gaza are excluded", he stressed.

Peace Cannot Be Achieved by Excluding Palestinians

Underscoring that the right to self-determination is "inherent and unconditional" and that "peace cannot be achieved in bypassing the Palestinians", Pakistan's representative noted that several important suggestions made by his and other delegations did not appear in the text. These include a clear political path to Palestinian statehood, an affirmation of the Palestinian Authority's central role in governance and reconstruction, and clarification regarding the Force's mandate. "Those are all crucial aspects with a bearing on the success of this endeavour," he emphasized.

Stressing the legal weight of Council decisions, the representative of Sierra Leone, Council President for November, spoke in his national capacity to stress that the organ cannot "extinguish, suspend or condition" the Palestinian right to statehood. This, he said, exists "independently of any peace plan, governance arrangement or reform programme". Nevertheless, the representative of Greece said that the Comprehensive Plan opens the path to the "realization" of the two-State solution and Palestinian self-determination.

For her part, the representative of Denmark said that the Comprehensive Plan represents "our best opportunity to bring about lasting peace" in which Palestinians can shape their own future, Gaza is reunited with the West Bank under a reformed Palestinian Authority as part of a two-State solution and Israel is secure from terrorism. The ceasefire that took effect on 10 October, she added, is "a long-awaited pause that offers renewed hope" for Israelis and Palestinians to begin recovering from the horrors of war.

'The Perfect Is the Enemy of the Good'

At the heart of Panama's vote in favour of the resolution, said that country's representative, was the scale of the suffering and devastation faced by Israelis and Palestinians. As the current situation on the ground demands an urgent response that prioritizes security, integration and civilian protection, he said that today's text represents a "first necessary step" to consolidate the ceasefire, reinforce vital humanitarian assistance and support international efforts towards reconstruction. He expressed a sentiment regarding the adopted resolution that was shared by many today: "The perfect is the enemy of the good."

However, the representative of the Russian Federation  whose delegation abstained  stressed that the resolution "is something we just couldn't support" as it does not reflect the cornerstone formula of the two-State solution and endows the Force with peace-enforcement tasks. Stressing that this "could actually transform it into a party to the conflict", he added that "not a single one of the potential troop-contributing countries agreed to this". He underscored: "The main thing is that this document shouldn't become a fig leaf for unbridled experiments conducted by the United States and Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territory."

And recalling the Council's "unfortunate experience of seeing solutions to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict  pushed through by the United States  bringing about the opposite result of what was intended", he concluded: "Don't say we didn't warn you."

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Leaders highlight collaboration in tackling emerging drone threats

By Sgt. Woodlyne Escarne November 18, 2025

WASHINGTON -- Senior representatives from the Department of War, the federal law enforcement community, and National Capital Region police departments joined together at Fort McNair last month to discuss the emerging threat posed by Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and how to shape future national security operations.

Speakers representing the Joint Interagency Task Force-401 (JIATF-401), Pentagon Force Protection Agency, FBI, U.S. Capitol Police, Fairfax County Police Department, and Montgomery County Police Department formed an executive panel. Panelists -explained current operations and shared experiences before responding to audience questions.

In August, the Honorable Pete Hegseth, Secretary of War, established JIATF-401 to rapidly deliver counter-UAS capability within the National Capital Region, across installations throughout the homeland, and abroad. U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Matthew Ross, Director, JIATF-401, told those gathered that defending against drones calls for a layered defense suited to each installation individually.

"Homeland requirements are different from the battlefield," he said. "Not every site that gets some equipment is going to get the same thing. We want to create a layered, distributed defensive posture."

Updated and evolving drone capabilities and techniques need to be able to react and block multiple control methods.

"c-UAS strategy here at home does not start and stop at the fence line," said Ross. "We need a defense-in-depth, working with the interagency to understand indicators and warnings and adjust our profile accordingly."

Attendees discussed issues including response times for drone incursions, manpower needed to police, and how to monitor incidents across jurisdictions. Some agencies still rely on their own spreadsheets, panel members said, but they, along with broader reporting standards, are taking shape. Ross highlighted the need to more effectively and strategically allocate resources.

"JIATF-401 is an entirely joint, interagency endeavor dedicated to defeating small UAS," he said. "Hardware alone is not sufficient. We need to train service members and work in concert with interagency partners so that we're all pulling together toward the same mission."

The panel further discussed the way ahead, with plans to establish a c-UAS technology marketplace within six months and the potential expansion of federal authorities to include additional critical infrastructure.

"The point was to get different perspectives around the issue," said Lt. Col. Adam Scher, Communications and Outreach Officer, JIATF-401. "As we have seen on the battlefields of Europe and the Middle East, drones are altering the way that we fight, and it is critical that our capabilities keep up with this rapidly evolving technology."

Scher said the gathering was a reminder that continuous teamwork is essential to mission success.

"We wanted a variety of views from across agencies on the UAS problem set," Scher said. "These conversations are essential if we want to learn not only about the technology, but the coordination that is required at all levels."

Throughout the discussion, panelists emphasized the importance of interagency coordination and continuous innovation in addressing the growing UAS threat.

"The UAS threat is advancing more quickly than any single organization can address on its own," Scher said. "It's going to take all of us. The military, federal, and local organizations are working together to keep ahead."

Scher summarizes the vital importance of the JIATF-401 mission simply: "BG Ross gave us only one performance metric: quickly fielding state-of-the-art c-UAS capability into the hands of our warfighters at home and abroad."

The JIATF-401 has already completed significant field testing and is preparing for additional exercises in the coming weeks. Reporting regularly to the Deputy Secreatry of War, Ross and team are developing and sharing c-UAS tactics, techniques, and procedures that can benefit warfighters beginning with their Initial Entry Training. The end goal is c-UAS strategy and capability incorporated into every mission planning and operation worldwide.

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November 18, 2025

By Courtesy of Commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet

USS Wichita Takes Over Southern Border Mission From USS St. Louis

The freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS Wichita departed Naval Station Mayport, Florida, to support U.S. Northern Command southern border operations, Nov. 14, 2025.

Wichita assumes duties previously executed by the freedom-variant littoral combat ship USS St. Louis. The ship will conduct similar operations as St. Louis in support of Northcom's border security objectives. Northcom is working together with the Department of Homeland Security to augment U.S. Customs and Border Protection along the southern border with additional military forces.

Navy assets are deployed under Northcom's maritime homeland defense authorities with a Coast Guard law enforcement detachment embarked to enable maritime interdiction missions to prevent the flow of illegal drugs or other illegal activity. Since entering the Gulf of America, St. Louis received support from the "Valkyries" of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron 50 Detachment 5 and embarked Coast Guard Law Enforcement Detachment 408.

"USS Wichita stands ready to relieve St. Louis as the leading edge for Northcom's homeland defense mission," said Cmdr. Travis Snover, Wichita's commanding officer. "We will carry on the dedication, impact and hard work of our fellow shipmates and will live up to our motto as the 'Keeper of the Seas.'"

The littoral combat ship platform is a fast, agile, mission-focused warship designed to operate in near-shore environments to counter 21st-century threats. It is a class of small surface combatants armed with capabilities to defeat challenges in the world's littorals. LCS can operate independently or in high-threat scenarios as part of a networked battle force that includes larger, multimission surface combatants such as cruisers and destroyers.

"St. Louis' deployment is a powerful example of how we're prioritizing maritime homeland defense, which directly impacts national security," said Navy Vice Adm. Doug Perry, commander, U.S. 2nd Fleet. "I look forward to Wichita supporting Northcom in implementing our shared commitment to readiness, presence and collaboration with partners and allies."

Wichita is assigned to Littoral Combat Ship Squadron 2 and homeported at Naval Station Mayport.

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Honduras: Statement by the Spokesperson on the electoral process

European External Action Service (EEAS)

18.11.2025

EEAS Press Team

The European Union is closely following the situation ahead of the general elections scheduled to take place on 30 November 2025 in Honduras. The EU expresses its concern about recent developments affecting the institutional framework and preparations for the elections.

The EU calls on the Honduran authorities and on all political parties and actors to ensure that electoral institutions are able to operate independently and effectively, in line with the Constitution. Transparency, credibility, stability and political inclusiveness are essential to enable Honduran citizens to vote in a peaceful and orderly environment.

The EU has deployed an Election Observation Mission (EU EOM) to Honduras following a formal invitation from the Honduran authorities and the National Electoral Council, as part of its ongoing commitment to supporting democracy and the rule of law in the country.

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US-drafted resolution at UN 'vague on key issues,' inconsistent with China's position: FM spokesperson explains China's abstention in Gaza vote

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 18, 2025 07:01 PM

In response to China's abstention in a UN vote on Gaza on Monday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday that the US-drafted resolution is vague on key issues regarding Gaza's post-war arrangements and fails to fully reflect important principles such as "Palestinians governing Palestine" and the "two-state solution," which is inconsistent with China's consistent position. Therefore, China did not vote in favor.

The UN Security Council adopted a resolution on Monday that endorses a peace plan for Gaza put forward by the US and a temporary international force in the enclave following two years of war. The resolution received 13 votes in favor, and none against, with permanent members China and Russia abstaining, UN News reported on Monday.

Mao noted that China's permanent representative to the UN has clarified the country's position in the explanatory statement after the Security Council vote.

"China supports the Security Council in taking all necessary actions to promote a durable ceasefire, alleviate the humanitarian disaster, and launch post-war reconstruction in Gaza," Mao said.

However, the US-drafted resolution is vague on key issues regarding Gaza's post-war arrangements and fails to fully reflect important principles such as "Palestinians governing Palestine" and the "two-state solution," which is inconsistent with China's position. Therefore, China did not vote in favor, Mao said.

Mao stated that China will continue to adopt a constructive and responsible attitude, support the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights, and make unremitting efforts to achieve a comprehensive, just and durable settlement of the Palestinian issue.

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China rejects Japan's unreasonable representations over CCG Diaoyu Islands patrol: FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 18, 2025 05:16 PM

Asked about reports that four China Coast Guard vessels entered waters near the Diaoyu Islands on Sunday, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara said at a press briefing on the 17th that Tokyo had "lodged a stern protest through diplomatic channels." In response on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said the Diaoyu Islands and their affiliated islands are China's inherent territory, and that China Coast Guard vessels patrolling in China's territorial waters are lawful, justified, and beyond reproach.

The spokesperson said China does not accept Japan's unreasonable representations, has rejected them on the spot, and has lodged representations countering it.

Mao said China urges Japan to abide by the four-point principled agreement between the two countries, respect China's territorial sovereignty, do not interfere with lawful China Coast Guard vessels patrols, and avoid taking any actions that could lead to an escalation of the situation.

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Statement by Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide on the UN Security Council resolution on Gaza

Government of Norway

News story | Date: 18/11/2025

'I welcome the Security Council's decision. It is important that the Security Council has endorsed the 20-point peace plan, which Norway also supports. It is crucial that the ceasefire in Gaza is respected and continues, and that work on phase 2 of the 20-point plan can now proceed. In addition to international support, it is essential that the Palestinian people have confidence in these efforts,' says Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide.

'Norway continuously assesses how we can contribute concretely to the implementation of the 20-point plan. Among other measures, we have sent personnel to the region to gather information about the Civil-Military Coordination Centre for Gaza (CMCC). Norway has recognised Palestine as an independent state. We will continue to work for a unified Palestinian state-building agenda, where all of Palestine - both Gaza and the West Bank - can be freely governed by the Palestinians themselves. We will support the Palestinian government in making this practically possible.' says the Minister of Foreign Affairs.

'In cooperation with key Arab countries, the United States has succeeded in moving the conflict onto a new track. We need a lasting end to the war in Gaza, and a political solution to the conflict that ensures security, freedom and independence for both the Israeli and Palestinian peoples. It is now vital that all countries support and contribute to the implementation of this plan,' says Barth Eide.

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PM Netanyahu's Statement on the UN Security Council's Resolution on President Trump's Gaza Plan

Israel - Prime Minister's Office

Type: Media Statements

Government: The 37th Government

Publish Date: 18.11.2025

The State of Israel and Prime Minister Netanyahu applaud President Trump and his tireless and devoted team. The courage and sacrifice of our brave soldiers, along with President Trump's diplomatic efforts, have helped bring home all of the living hostages and most of the deceased ones.

The United Nations Security Council fully endorses President Trump's 20 Point Plan, and the appointment of the Board of Peace to be led by President Trump. We believe that President Trump's plan will lead to peace and prosperity because it insists upon full demilitarization, disarmament and the deradicalization of Gaza. True to President Trump's vision, this will lead to further integration of Israel and its neighbors as well as expansion of Abraham Accords. President Trump's breakthrough leadership will help lead the region to peace and prosperity and a lasting alliance with the United States.

In cooperation with the United States and other countries signed on President Trump's plan, we expect to receive all of the deceased hostages with no delay and to begin the process of disarming and demilitarizing the Gaza Strip and ending Hamas' rule over Gaza per President Trump's and Ambassador Waltz's statements.

Israel extends its hand in peace and prosperity to all of our neighbors and calls on them to normalize relations with Israel and join us in expelling Hamas and its supporters from the region.

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Aboul Gheit meets with Chinese Foreign Minister during his official visit to China

League of Arab States

Date: 18/11/2025

The Secretary-General of the League of Arab States, Mr. Ahmed Aboul Gheit met on 18 November in Beijing with Wang Yi, Minister of Foreign Affairs and member of the Political Bureau of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, at the Great Hall of the People during his official visit to the People's Republic of China.

Gamal Roshdy, the Secretary-General's official spokesperson, stated that at the outset of the meeting, Mr. Aboul Gheit congratulated the Chinese minister on the successful conclusion of the Fourth Plenary Session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, during which the Fifteenth Five-Year Plan for China's Economic and Social Development was adopted. He conveyed his best wishes for the plan's success.

The spokesperson added that Mr. Aboul Gheit stressed during his meeting with the Chinese minister the depth and strength of the historical relations between China and the Arab worldrelations long marked by mutual respect, trust, and reciprocal support on issues of common concern, grounded in the principles of justice and international law. He noted the steady development of Arab-Chinese relations since the establishment of the China-Arab Cooperation Forum in 2004.

The spokesperson further stated that Mr. Aboul Gheit expressed appreciation for the "Global Governance Initiative" recently announced by Chinese President Xi Jinping, an initiative aimed at addressing shortcomings in the global system and one that has drawn significant interest from Arab states. He underscored the importance of considering this initiative in light of its expected contribution to strengthening global peace and development.

On another note, the spokesperson said that the Chinese minister affirmed his country's strong interest in hosting the second Arab-Chinese Summit, scheduled for May 2026. He affirmed that it will be a historic and successful summit, chaired by President Xi Jinping with the participation of Arab leaders, and noted that China will work closely with the League of Arab States to ensure its success.

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Minister Budrys: Arctic security is directly linked to the Baltic region

Republic of Lithuania - Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Updated 2025-11-18

On 18 November, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kestutis Budrys, is attending the Berlin Security Conference. The Minister spoke during the discussion on "North: from the Baltic states to the Arctic Circle - Threats, Risks and Mitigation".

On 18 November, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Kestutis Budrys, is attending the Berlin Security Conference. The Minister spoke during the discussion "North: from the Baltic states to the Arctic Circle - Threats, Risks and Mitigation".

Budrys emphasized the growing militarization of the Arctic by Russia and its impact on the security of the North Atlantic and the Baltic states. According to the Minister, the Arctic remains one of Russia's key strategic pillars, and its actions pose a direct threat to NATO infrastructure and the security of its allies. Budrys emphasized that Russia was not only strengthening its military presence near the Northern Sea Route but was also creating conditions that limit freedom of navigation and increase tensions in the region. According to him, the Northern Fleet's presence near NATO borders poses a threat to critical infrastructure and maritime communication lines.

"Finland and Sweden's NATO membership creates a strategic continuity between the Baltic Sea and the North. Any conflict in the North will have a direct impact on the Baltic region, from changes in naval deployment to hybrid threats such as GPS jamming or cyberattacks," the Minister said.

Budrys stressed that the Arctic is not only part of Russia's military strategy, but also of economic security - the region accounts for 11% of Russia's GDP, 20% of tax revenues, 83% of gas production, and 17% of oil extraction.

According to Budrys, Moscow is increasingly relying on the Northern Sea Route as an alternative export corridor due to sanctions, and in 2024, as many as 84% of oil exports were transported using a shadow fleet.

When speaking about the geopolitical context, the Minister noted the role of China.

"China presents its engagement in the Arctic as economic and scientific cooperation, but its partnership with Russia is gradually deepening in terms of infrastructure, minerals, and research. This is an important factor for the security situation in the region," the Minister said.

Budrys stressed that NATO must be active in the region and is already taking steps to strengthen air defence, intelligence, and maritime surveillance in the North. According to the Minister, allies are investing in icebreakers, Arctic-trained forces, and joint exercises, and Lithuania supports these efforts.

The Minister emphasized the effective cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic countries in assessing threats and coordinating countermeasures, and stressed that the Baltic region's experience in countering hybrid threats, protecting undersea infrastructure, and ensuring maritime surveillance is directly applicable to Arctic security.

"The Baltic states have already demonstrated that a coordinated response to hybrid threats is effective. We can transfer these models to the Arctic, where Russia and China are increasingly active. This is our shared security challenge," said the Minister.

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SHADE MED 2025 Brings Together NATO and EU Leaders to Address Mediterranean Security Challenges

NATO Allied Maritime Command

Nov 18 2025

Rome, ITALY. The EU Naval Forces Mediterranean Command (EUNAVFOR MED) and NATO's Allied Maritime Command (MARCOM) co-organized the "Shared Awareness and De-confliction in the Mediterranean" (SHADE MED) Conference November 18 in Rome to discuss ways to enhance maritime security throughout the region.

The 14th edition of the annual conference focused on addressing future security challenges in the Mediterranean region and beyond. The conference serves as a crucial platform to connect international experts, government representatives and military leaders to discuss common challenges and emerging threats to maritime security.

"Our presence at the SHADE MED conference highlights the integral roles that both NATO and the EU play in the Mediterranean Sea and our shared security challenges in the maritime domain," said Vice Admiral Ludovic Poitou, Deputy Commander Allied Maritime Command. "The discussions during this conference provided a timely and welcome overview of the current strategic context, from Europe's Northern, Eastern, and Southern Flanks, to the Middle East and North Africa. Our dialogue enhances understanding and enhances our collective efforts to create a more secure and prosperous Europe, and beyond."

The annual gathering featured a series of speakers and panels with leading experts from academia, the diplomatic community, the shipping community, and military leaders who shared their insights and expertise on the Mediterranean region and its dynamic security environment.

The conference not only reflected the EU's and NATO's commitment to addressing regional complexities; it also highlights the significance of partnerships and collective action to enhance peace and stability of the Mediterranean region.

"SHADE MED is an annual open forum for bringing together EU, NATO, and partner Nation representatives for substantive dialogue about the security of the Mediterranean region and beyond," said Rear Admiral Marco Casapieri, Operation Commander of EUNAVFOR MED Operation IRINI. "It is an exceptional opportunity to develop multilateral engagement, a key event to share EU and NATO experiences, and an ideal forum to raise maritime security awareness"

Story by Public Affairs Office at MARCOM

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Pakistan Strongly Condemns Israeli Violations in the Occupied West Bank and at Al-Aqsa Mosque

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Pakistan strongly condemns the continuing violations by the Israeli occupying forces and extremist settlers against the Palestinian people in the occupied West Bank, including repeated storming of the courtyards of Al-Aqsa Mosque, and provocations against worshippers. Such actions constitute a blatant violation of the international law and the relevant UN resolutions.

It is imperative that the sanctity of the holy sites must be ensured in accordance with the international law and the historical status quo.

Pakistan calls upon the international community to take urgent and effective measures to ensure protection of the holy sites, prevent further settler violence and incursions, and uphold relevant UN resolutions.

Pakistan reiterates its principled position in support of a just, comprehensive and lasting peace based on the Two-State solution, leading to the establishment of an independent, sovereign, viable and contiguous State of Palestine, based on pre-June 1967 borders, with Al-Quds Al-Sharif as its capital.

Islamabad

18 November, 2025

337/2025

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Secretary Lazaro Forges Strong Ties with Palestine in Historic Visit of Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines

Republic of the Philippines - Department of Foreign Affairs

MANILA 18 November 2025 -- Philippine Secretary of Foreign Affairs Ma. Theresa P. Lazaro held a bilateral meeting today with Palestinian Minister of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates Varsen Aghabekian Shahin.

The visit is historically significant and is a milestone in the two countries' diplomatic relations, as this is the first-ever visit of a Palestinian Foreign Minister to the Philippines, after the formal establishment of the bilateral relations between the two countries on 4 September 1989.

The discussions between Secretary Lazaro and Minister Shahin centered on how both countries can pursue a more robust and practical cooperation in areas of mutual interests such as higher education, consular cooperation, technical and vocational education and training, among others.

The two top diplomats also exchanged views on key regional and international issues such as the ASEAN Chairship of the Philippines in 2026, developments in the Middle East and the West Philippine Sea. Foreign Minister Shahin also provided updates on the ongoing peace process in Palestine.

The meeting between the two officials saw the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding on Political Consultations. The agreement established a structured bilateral mechanism of consultations between the Philippines and Palestine, that will provide a platform for officials of both parties to review their bilateral relations, identify new areas of cooperation, and promote common interests.

The Foreign Minister also conducted a lecture at the Foreign Service Institute on 17 November 2025 entitled, "The Palestinian Predicament: Latest Developments in Gaza and the West Bank".

During her visit in the Philippines, Foreign Minister Shahin will pay a courtesy call on President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. END

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DFA thanks G7 for opposing force, coercion in South China Sea

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

November 18, 2025, 9:23 pm

MANILA -- The Philippine government, through the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA), thanked the Group of Seven (G7) for opposing the use of force and coercion in the South China Sea (SCS).

The DFA said in a statement Tuesday that the Philippines shares the G7's "serious concern over the use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons, and efforts to restrict freedom of navigation and overflight through militarization and coercion, in the South China Sea."

"We appreciate the G7's call for security, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific, including the South China Sea, and its reiteration of the significance of the 2016 Arbitral Award as a basis for the peaceful management and resolution of differences at sea," the DFA said.

In a joint statement on Nov. 12, the foreign ministers of the G7 countries (Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the United Kingdom and the United States) and the European Union, again conveyed "serious concern" over the use of dangerous maneuvers and water cannons in the SCS.

They affirmed their support for the SCS award by the Arbitral Tribunal in 2016 and described it "binding upon the parties."

The G7, representing the world's leading industrialized democracies, is repeatedly advocating for a rules-based order in the disputed SCS, where Beijing lays a huge swath of claim.

In the past, top diplomats from the G7 have publicly supported Manila in calling out Beijing's use of water cannons and dangerous maneuvers against Philippine vessels in the West Philippine Sea. (PNA)

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DFA sees positive dev't in talks to extract Houthi-held Filipinos

Philippine News Agency

By Joyce Ann L. Rocamora

November 18, 2025, 2:57 pm Updated on November 18, 2025, 3:08 pm

MANILA -- The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) is expecting some positive development in the efforts to extract the Filipino seafarers being held by the Houthis in Yemen, Secretary Ma. Theresa Lazaro said Tuesday.

She said partner countries in the Middle East are helping the Philippines appeal for the release of the Filipinos.

"We are hopeful that we have had very good relations with many of these countries. I cannot just divulge the negotiations or the discussions," she said in a joint press briefing with visiting Palestinian Foreign Minister Varsen Aghabekian Shahin in Pasay City.

"I was just informed by the foreign minister concerned that something positive will come out in the coming days."

In July, the DFA confirmed that nine Filipino crew members of the ill-fated MV Eternity C were held captive by the Houthis after their vessel sank from a drone attack launched by the rebel group.

The vessel was carrying 22 crew members, 21 of whom are Filipinos, when the incident occurred in the Red Sea.

In the same briefing, Shahin said Palestine is ready to provide all the assistance it can extend within its capacity.

"If Palestine can be of any help, anywhere, and in whatever capacities we have, we will not shy away from extending that help and support," she said. "So yes, if there's anything that we can do, we will do it."

Earlier this year, the Houthis released 17 Filipino seafarers from another ship, the MV Galaxy Leader, after holding them hostage for at least 14 months.

The release was made possible with the successful mediation efforts by the government of Oman following the ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel, the condition required by the Houthi captors of the Galaxy Leader crew at that time. (PNA)

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China calls for Palestinian rule in Gaza to maintain regional stability

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 7:21 PM

China says any arrangements in the Gaza Strip must respect Palestinian governance and support the establishment of an independent Palestinian state to ensure lasting peace in West Asia.

During a meeting with Arab League Secretary-General Ahmed Aboul-Gheit in Beijing, Foreign Minister Wang Yi reaffirmed Beijing's commitment to supporting the restoration of Palestinians' legitimate rights.

China, he said, will "promote the advancement and implementation of the two-state solution."

"Any post-conflict arrangement for Gaza should reflect the fundamental principle of 'the Palestinians governing Palestine' and must adhere unwaveringly to the two-state solution," Wang added. "Only through this path can lasting peace and stability be achieved in the region."

Wang also reiterated that China "is the Arab countries' most reliable partner."

The two diplomats met on the sidelines of the 11th China-Arab Civilization Dialogue in Beijing, which brings together 150 representatives from 22 Arab countries and the League of Arab States.

The Arab League Secretary-General also expressed support for the realization of an independent Palestinian state.

On Monday, the UN Security Council passed a resolution that calls for the establishment of an international force in Gaza. The resolution, put forward by the Trump administration, received abstentions from China and Russia.

Aboul-Gheit claimed that the resolution reflected an international commitment to the reconstruction of Gaza, after two years of war and destruction inflicted on Palestinians by the Israeli regime.

Russia, however, warned earlier in the day that the plan "is reminiscent of colonial practices," warning that the international force, reportedly to be formed by the US, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt, risks becoming another instrument of US control rather than a stabilizing presence for Palestinians.

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Israel asks ICC to dismiss genocide case prosecutor, revoke arrest warrants

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 3:58 PM

Israel has formally appealed to the International Criminal Court (ICC), demanding the removal of the chief prosecutor from the Gaza genocide case, and the nullification of arrest warrants issued for Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former minister of military affairs Yoav Gallant.

In a document published on Monday, Israel's Foreign Ministry asserted, without providing evidence, that prosecutor Karim Ahamd Khan pursued Israel's genocide case with "improper personal motives."

Israel also demanded the revocation of the arrest warrants issued by the court on November 21, 2024, at Khan's request, against Netanyahu and Gallant.

The indictments include the war crime of starvation as a method of warfare and the crimes against humanity of murder, persecution, and other inhumane acts committed during the regime's genocidal campaign in Gaza, which, since October 7, 2023, has killed at least 69,490 Palestinians and wounded 179,000 others.

Since the issuance of these warrants, Israel and its chief Western partners, especially the United Kingdom and the United States, have engaged in a campaign of intimidation and propaganda against the ICC and Khan.

In July, Khan and the ICC were threatened with being "destroyed" should they proceed with the case against the Israeli leadership.

Khan was also privately pressured by then-British Secretary of Foreign Affairs David Cameron in April 2024, who warned that the UK would defund and withdraw from the ICC if the court moved forward with warrants against the Israeli authorities.

In May 2024, US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham also "threatened" Khan with sanctions if he applied for the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant.

Subsequently, the administration of US President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on Khan and four ICC judges.

Furthermore, Khan received a security briefing alerting him that Israel's spy agency, Mossad, "was active in The Hague and posed a potential threat" to his safety.

Khan also met with Nicholas Kaufman in May, a British-Israeli lawyer at the ICC, to discuss the Israeli investigation.

In a note of the meeting on file at the ICC, Kaufman told Khan that if the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant were not dropped, "they will destroy you, and they will destroy the court."

Meanwhile, in a letter to the Israeli regime's president, Isaac Herzog, Trump urged him to pardon Netanyahu in a separate domestic criminal case.

"I hereby call on you to fully pardon Benjamin Netanyahu, who has been a formidable and decisive War Time Prime Minister," Trump wrote.

Netanyahu is currently facing charges of fraud, bribery, and breach of trust in three separate cases that began during Trump's first term. He has pleaded not guilty and continues to claim his innocence while testifying in court.

In response to this intervention, Herzog declined to take a position, stating that a pardon request must follow official, established procedures.

"The president has made it clear on multiple occasions that anyone seeking a pardon must submit a formal request in accordance with the established procedures," his statement clarified.

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Trump's plan for Gaza 'reminiscent of colonial era practices,' Russia says

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 1:44 PM

Russia has slammed a controversial US-backed plan to deploy a so-called International Stabilization Force (ISF) in Gaza, saying it "is reminiscent of colonial practices," and risks sidelining the Palestinians.

The UN Security Council on Monday passed a resolution establishing the international force in Gaza.

The resolution, put forward by the Trump administration, received 13 votes in favour and none against, with the permanent members China and Russia abstaining.

Russia had circulated a rival proposal with stronger language supporting a Palestinian state, stressing that the West Bank and Gaza must be joined as a state under the Palestinian Authority.

Russia's ambassador to the UN, Vassily Nebenzia, said on Tuesday that Moscow abstained because the proposal lacked transparency, excluded Palestinian input, and granted Washington excessive control over Gaza under the guise of peacekeeping.

He warned that the international force could become "a fig leaf for unbridled experiments conducted by the US in Israel, in the occupied Palestinian territory."

According to Nebenzia, the force "would appear to be able to act absolutely autonomously without any regard for the position or the opinion of Ramallah."

Such an approach, he said, risks entrenching the long-feared separation of Gaza from the occupied West Bank.

Nebenzia also drew a direct comparison to the colonial era, saying the plan "is reminiscent of colonial practices... when the opinion of Palestinians themselves was not taken into account."

Moscow has raised questions about the mandate of the ISF under Trump's plan, warning that its undefined "peace enforcement tasks" could effectively turn it into a combat actor rather than a neutral peacekeeping presence.

The new force, Nebenzia said, risks becoming another instrument of US control rather than a stabilizing presence for Palestinians.

The force, reportedly to be formed by the US, Turkey, Qatar, and Egypt, would operate under the pretext of reconstruction and security.

Trump celebrated the vote as "a moment of true historic proportion" in a social media post, saying that "the members of the Board, and many more exciting announcements, will be made in the coming weeks."

After the vote, Hamas rejected the plan as an imposed "international guardianship mechanism" and insisted it would not disarm.

Rights groups have also warned that Trump's proposal ignores the core issues of Israeli occupation, accountability for war crimes, and Palestinians' right to self-determination and compensation.

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Trump says it would be 'OK' to launch strikes in Mexico against drug cartels

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 11:16 AM

US President Donald Trump has suggested the possibility of initiating military strikes in Mexico, marking what would be a significant escalation in his administration's purported efforts to combat drug cartels.

During a discussion with reporters in the Oval Office on Monday, Trump responded to a question regarding the chances of targeting Mexico or deploying American troops and personnel to the country, stating that he would be fine with such actions.

"Would I launch strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? OK with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs. Mexico is  look, I looked at Mexico City over the weekend. There's some big problems over there," Trump responded when asked if he was contemplating such a move.

Asked whether he would carry out strikes solely with Mexico's consent, Trump said he "wouldn't answer that question." He added that he has been speaking with the country, adding that Mexico knows "how I stand."

"We've stopped the waterways, but we know every route. We know every route, we know the addresses of every drug lord," Trump said. "We know their address, we know their front door. We know everything about every one of them. They're killing our people. That's like a war. Would I do it? I'd be proud to."

Trump's remarks came two weeks after NBC, citing two government officials, reported that the White House was gearing up for the initial phase of a ground offensive in Mexico, which would involve collaboration with US intelligence agencies.

The report indicated that the offensive aims to concentrate on carrying out drone strikes targeting drug laboratories in Mexico and members of the cartels.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has firmly stated that any US military action in Mexico would not take place without her explicit authorization.

In the middle of his Monday comments about Mexico, Trump turned to Colombia, saying he would be "proud" to dismantle cocaine factories in the country.

"We have nobody coming into our southern border, but we know exactly how they get their things here. How they get the drugs here. Fentanyl, cocaine," Trump said. "Colombia is  has cocaine factories, where they make cocaine. Would I knock out those factories? I would be proud to do it, personally."

Since resuming office in January, Trump has relied on executive orders and exploited legal loopholes to authorize military actions against drug cartels, bypassing the need for Congressional approval.

They include labeling six drug cartels as foreign terrorist organizations, allowing the White House to justify military action under the guise of national security.

Since September, the White House has conducted at least 20 operations targeting boats believed to be carrying drugs in the Caribbean and the Pacific, resulting in the deaths of more than 80 people, including Colombian citizens.

The strikes prompted Colombian President Gustavo Petro to criticize the actions of the Trump administration, resulting in a diplomatic fallout between Petro and Trump.

Trump has described Petro as a drug leader, leading the United States to take the extraordinary step of imposing sanctions on him.

When questioned on Monday in the Oval Office about the possibility of ruling out ground troops in Venezuela, Trump responded negatively.

"I don't rule out anything. We just have to take care of Venezuela," he said.

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Wider Europe Briefing: Will The EU Be Able To Create A 'Military Schengen'?

By Rikard Jozwiak November 18, 2025

Welcome to Wider Europe, RFE/RL's newsletter focusing on the key issues concerning the European Union, NATO, and other institutions and their relationships with the Western Balkans and Europe's Eastern neighborhoods.

I'm RFE/RL Europe Editor Rikard Jozwiak, and this week I am drilling down on two issues: The EU's "military Schengen" and the potential next round of Russia sanctions.

Briefing #1: Is The EU Setting Up A 'Military Schengen'?

What You Need To Know: Europe is ramping up defense spending. But one issue has been largely neglected: how to move military equipment from one country to another as quickly as possible in case of conflict. The idea of a 'military Schengen' -- meaning an area in which arms and troops can move as easily as civilians around the passport-free Schengen zone that comprises most EU states -- has been discussed for years but has remained elusive for both the EU and NATO despite the war in Ukraine.

On November 19, the European Commission will present its latest attempt to achieve this by the end of the decade.

An advanced copy, seen by RFE/RL, points out two ways to achieve this: firstly, splashing the cash on hundreds of "choke points" around the Continent such as rail tracks, ports and bridges, including in EU candidates Ukraine and Moldova, which the paper considers crucial to integrate into the EU's military transport structures, and secondly, cutting red tape as disparate national legislation and bureaucracy are believed to be hindering any efforts to quickly and easily move military assets from one EU country to another.

Deep Background: The idea of a "military Schengen" has been talked about in Brussels for quite a while. Back in 2017 it became an "area of prioritym" and action plans on the topic were drawn up by the commission in 2018, 2022, and 2024 --- but with little progress.

EU diplomats, speaking under condition of anonymity to RFE/RL, have pointed out that the topic is often near the top of the agenda when EU-NATO cooperation is being discussed but that neither organization truly has embraced it.

NATO has long hoped the EU would devote more legislative power and cash to military mobility, especially now when 23 of its 27 member states are also part of the military alliance and the war in Ukraine has created more urgency to step up on all defense-related items.

At the same time, there has been frustration in the EU that NATO has been too focused on spending money on expensive military gear and much less on how to actually transport it or make it available for other alliance members. The new NATO goal of reaching 3.5 percent of GDP on military equipment by 2035 and an additional 1.5 percent on nonmilitary investment such as for example military mobility goes some way to address the issue.

But it is still very much up to individual countries, as the commission paper highlights: "While Member States remain free to decide whether to allow foreign armed forces to cross their territory as part of their national security and defense, the EU must have a framework for military mobility that balances military and civilian needs."

The goal for this European Commission, whose mandate ends in 2029, is to "set up an EU-wide Military Mobility Area by the end of 2027 as a first step toward progressively achieving a 'Military Schengen' in regulatory, infrastructure and capabilities dimensions."

Drilling Down:

The question is whether the cash will be available this time. In the last multiyear EU budget (2021-2027) some 1.7 billion euros were earmarked for dual civilian/military use transport infrastructure, focusing on 95 projects in 21 countries. But, as the paper noted, "the demand for EU funding significantly exceeded the available resources and all calls were heavily oversubscribed."

For the next long-term budget (2028-2034), the European Commission has therefore proposed 17.65 billion euros in dual-use transport infrastructure focusing on 500 "hotspot projects" where transport of military gear needs to become faster and smoother.

The question, though, is if this will fly as member states always water down the commission's initial proposals and prefer to divert EU cash to "vote winner" topics such as agriculture, fisheries, and other types of social spending.

Rail is also the mode of transport most money has been spent on when it comes to military mobility, and that is likely to continue. Earlier this year the EU agreed on four priority multimodal military mobility corridors: north, south, east, and central. The northern one, mainly connecting the Netherlands with Germany and Poland and then further to Ukraine, is for obvious reasons the most advanced.

The document highlights a 22-kilometer railway stretch connecting western Ukraine with Slovakia and the rest of Central Europe in European nominal standard railway track gauge that opened in September. It also notes that "preparatory works are ongoing to deploy the European nominal standard track gauge on the European Transport Corridors connecting Moldova and Ukraine to EU Member States."

The idea is very much that all of the EU, including candidate countries, will operate with the standard track gauge going forward.

The European Commission is also keen to splash the cash on other items vital for military movements but described as "scarce" in the club such as outsized cargo airlifts, dual-use ferries, and, notably, flatbed wagons for trains via which heavy military equipment such as rockets and tanks can be transported.

In the end, the biggest changes the EU can likely make are in legislation to better enable the movement of troops and equipment. The problem is laid bare in the document: "EU rules are not applied to military transport or are not applied coherently, national regulations diverge, and military transport is not given sufficient priority."

The text notes that it sometimes requires 45 days to obtain permission for military transport to cross from one EU country to another. The goal, set by Brussels, is three days. Surprisingly, the EU's harmonized rules for the transport of dangerous goods do not apply to military transport, meaning ad hoc arrangements are often required. This is now set to change.

The European Commission intends to push for more. Permission to move military equipment between member states will no longer need to be renewed annually; it will simply remain valid until revoked. Non-EU member states can also be part of this change.

Other proposals include the exempting of military transport from certain civilian rules such as holiday traffic bans and EU cabotage rules -- specific legislation in the bloc that favors national transport companies over those from other EU countries.

The key to this will be a European Military Mobility Enhanced Response System (EMERS) that can be triggered within 48 hours of a proposal from the European Commission or an EU member state. When activated in the case of a potential military emergency, cross-border military transport would only require a notification with a reduced advance notice of military movement and bypassing standard procedures, except for customs formalities.

All these proposals will of course be agreed among EU member states, often requiring unanimity. Given the increased urgency for the EU to step up militarily amid the war in Ukraine, this might prove the best chance to achieve the "military Schengen."





Briefing #2: When And How Will The EU Impose More Russia Sanctions?

What You Need To Know: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy recently hinted that the EU is working on another sanctions package on Russia, less than a month after agreeing on a new raft of measures aimed at hitting the Kremlin over the full-scale invasion of its neighbor.

The first question is how quickly such a new proposal may emerge. EU diplomats whom RFE/RL spoke with under the condition of anonymity say they doubt fresh measures will be presented this side of Christmas. Brussels has two bigger priorities at the moment: securing funding for Ukraine for the next two years (with a so-called reparations loan still the favored option) and making sure all current EU sanctions on Moscow are renewed.

Both issues need to be solved in January at the latest. The latter requires unanimity while the former needs broad political backing.

EU officials are, in other words, wary of adding another task requiring consensus and have hinted that a new sanctions package might first arrive around the fourth anniversary of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2026.

Deep Background: This hasn't stopped EU member states from drawing up their wish-lists, though. One discussion paper seen by RFE/RL and authored by the Baltic trio Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania as well as Germany Poland, and Sweden makes it clear the next goal should be to limit EU imports of Russian goods.

Noting that the bloc imported goods from the country to the tune of 35 billion euros last year, the six countries argue there still is plenty of leeway for the club to lessen its dependence on Moscow.

The bulk of these imports are in energy such as gas and oil as well as various agricultural products. Brussels already committed earlier this year to largely phasing out both Russian energy and agriculture imports by 2027.

The countries are essentially looking at the next most imported Russian item: steel.

So far this year, the club has imported Russian steel to the tune of 1.3 billion euros, or 8 percent of total EU imports from the country. Most of those steel products are so-called steel slabs, a foundation material that is crafted into more elaborate steel products.

While Brussels imposed import bans on some Russian steel already back in 2022, steel slab intakes have an exemption till October 2028. This exemption could be crossed out.

Another potential target is so-called inorganic chemicals from Russia, which constitute 3 percent of total EU imports from Russia. These include anhydrous ammonia and calcium phosphates, which can be used both for agriculture but also in the plastics and pharmaceutical industries.

The discussion paper notes the United States is currently both the largest importer and exporter of these products and potential sanctions wouldn't disrupt their European supplies.

Potassium fertilizers are a similar story. While the EU has targeted nitrogen-based fertilizers with trade restrictions, imports of those that are potassium-based actually increased in 2024 compared to 2023 and 2022.

The EU still produces its own potassium fertilizers but at a higher cost, largely due to stringent environmental regulations. But the bloc could also import from other third countries such as Canada and Israel, meaning sanctions on these Russian imports wouldn't necessarily translate into a shortage for European farmers.

Drilling Down:

The EU also wants to figure out how to target Russia's "shadow fleet" -- often rickety vessels with shadowy ownership Moscow uses to circumvent the G7 oil cap. The cap has set a limit, currently at $47.60 per barrel, at which Russian crude oil is allowed to be traded.

Brussels has so far blacklisted 562 vessels trying to undercut the cap. The blacklisting means they cannot be serviced at any EU ports, but it is believed there are at least another 400 that still haven't been targeted. And they are still allowed to sail in EU waters, often causing fears of oil spills and other hazards.

France recently distributed a discussion paper among EU capitals on what more can be done in this field. The gist of Paris's proposal is that the EU and like-minded countries should focus on what it calls "a volume-driven approach."

This essentially means regulating how much oil boats are allowed to carry. While not sketching out how this would work in practice , the document, seen by RFE/RL, notes that Brussels's next move should be to hit "all enablers of the shadow fleet's, especially its financial, commercial, and logistical networks in third countries."

While this could obviously mean sanctions, the paper also suggests "introducing incentives to encourage owners of listed vessels to reintegrate legitimate trade channels" and "preventing further increase in tonnage through more stringent controls and due diligence requirements on the sales of ships."

Then there is the issue of stopping boats belonging to the shadow fleet in European waters.

Paris made headlines earlier in September when French authorities boarded the vessel Pushpa/Boracay after suspicions that the ship played a part in drone incidents in Denmark earlier that month that triggered the closure of Copenhagen airport for several hours.

France is urging the bloc to act more forcefully against boats that in fact may be stateless, arguing that "when these suspect vessels are falsely flagged, or when they have in reality already been erased of the register of the flag State they claim, they are stateless vessels" and as such make them easier for European nations to board without falling foul under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.





Looking Ahead

EU foreign ministers meet for their monthly gathering in Brussels on November 20. Their Ukrainian counterpart Andriy Sybiha will brief them about the latest developments in the war against Russia with EU financing for Kyiv and further sanctions (see briefing above) on Moscow will also be discussed. Relations with Belarus is also on the agenda as neighboring countries such as Lithuania is accusing the Lukashenka regime of hybrid attacks such as sending balloons with smuggled goods over the border.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/wider-europe- jozwiak-military-schengen-eu/33593920.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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UN Security Council Resolution on Gaza Does Not Meet Demands of Palestinian People - Hamas

Sputnik News

20251118

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Palestinian movement Hamas said that the US resolution on the Gaza Strip adopted by the UN Security Council does not meet the demands and rights of the Palestinian people.

"This resolution does not meet the level of our Palestinian people's political and humanitarian demands and rights, particularly in the Gaza Strip ... The resolution imposes an international guardianship mechanism on the Gaza Strip, which our people and their factions reject," Hamas said in a statement on Monday.

On Monday, the UN Security Council adopted a US-sponsored resolution authorizing the creation of an International Stabilisation Force (ISF) in the Gaza Strip. The ISF will work with Israel and Egypt under an initial two-year mandate to secure Gaza's borders, protect civilians, deliver humanitarian aid, train a reconstituted Palestinian police force, and oversee the disarmament of Hamas and other armed groups.

Thirteen members of the Council voted in favor of the resolution, while two members - Russia and China - abstained from the voting.

 Sputnik

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Trump: 'I Would Be Proud' to 'Knock Out Cocaine Factories' in Colombia

Sputnik News

20251118

US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he would be "proud" to strike what he called "cocaine factories" in Colombia.

"Colombia has cocaine factories where they make cocaine. Would I knock out those factories? I would be proud to do it personally," Trump said, while clarifying that he was not announcing any specific operation.

"I didn't say I'm doing it, but I would be proud to do it," Trump explained.

 Sputnik

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Trump: 'Would I Launch Strikes on Mexico to Stop Drugs? It's Okay With Me'

Sputnik News

20251118

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) - US President Donald Trump said on Monday that he would be "okay" with launching strikes on Mexico to stop drugs from coming into the United States.

"Okay with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs. I looked at Mexico City over the weekend. There are so many problems over there ... I have been speaking to Mexico. They know how I stand," Trump told reporters, emphasizing that he is "not happy" with the country.

 Sputnik

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Gaza and Sudan: Foreign Secretary statement, 18 November 2025

Oral statement to Parliament

The Foreign Secretary made a statement to the House of Commons on the situations in Gaza and Sudan on 18 November 2025.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and The Rt Hon Yvette Cooper MP

Published 18 November 2025

Delivered on: 18 November 2025

Thank you Madam Deputy Speaker. I want to update the House on two of the world's gravest conflicts - in Gaza and in Sudan - following recent resolutions in the United Nations and discussions at the G7, and also on the action that the UK Government is taking to pursue peace.

Firstly in Gaza. After two years of the most horrendous suffering in Gaza, the ceasefire agreement led by President Trump with the support of Qatar, Egypt and Turkiye has been in place for 6 weeks.

Twenty hostages are now home with their loved ones, and the remains of 25 more have been returned so their families can grieve. More aid trucks are entering Gaza, but the ceasefire is highly fragile. And there is still a long journey ahead implement the commitments made at Sharm el Sheikh and to get to a lasting peace.

Last night, the UN Security Council passed Resolution 2803. The UK voted for this important resolution, which authorises the establishment of an International Stabilisation Force for Gaza, transitional arrangements including the Board of Peace and a Palestinian Committee.

It underscores the essential need for humanitarian aid and reconstruction, and points the way to a path to Palestinian self-determination and statehood. Crucially, it is supported by the Palestinian Authority and Arab and Muslim partners in the region and beyond. And this resolution is a critical staging post which sustains the unity around President Trump's 20-Point plan. But momentum must now be maintained.

It is essential that an International Stabilisation Force and trained Palestinian police can be deployed quickly to support the ceasefire and to avoid a vacuum being left which Hamas can exploit. We will also need the urgent formation of a Palestinian Committee, alongside the Board of Peace. And as we were clear at the UN last night, these transitional arrangements must be implemented in accordance with international law and respecting Palestinian sovereignty and self-determination.

They should strengthen the unity of Gaza and the West Bank, and empower Palestinian institutions to enable a reformed Palestinian Authority to resume governance in Gaza, because Palestine must be run by Palestinians.

The work to implement the first phase of the ceasefire agreement must continue. That means work so that Hamas releases the bodies of the remaining three hostages taken in the terrorist attack on October 7th, so their families can properly grieve.

And we urgently need a major increase in humanitarian aid because aid into Gaza is still a trickle rather than a flood. In Jordan, two weeks ago I visited warehouses holding UKAid for Gaza - including one run by the World Food Programme with enough wheat to feed 700,000 people for a month. Yet it still sits there because the Jordanian route into Gaza is still closed.

They told me there about there being 30 more warehouses nearby, with food, shelter kits, tents, medical supplies - less than 100 miles from Gaza but still not getting in. Now I welcome very recent improvements in aid flows and that one more border crossing - Zikim - is now partially open. But it is not nearly enough.

We need all of the land crossings open - including the Rafah border with Egypt - with longer and consistent hours. Urgent work is needed immediately in all parts of Gaza to rebuild basic public services and to provide shelter as winter draws in. Medical staff must be allowed to enter and leave Gaza freely and international non-governmental organisations need certainty that they can continue to operate.

I spoke to the King of Jordan, and to doctors in Amman about a maternity and neonatal field hospital unit which stands ready to be moved into Gaza. But again, they can't yet get it in. The Israeli Government can and must remove these restrictions and uncertainty now.

As well as working with the US and others, we are drawing on distinct UK strengths to support a lasting peace.

We're providing expertise on weapons decommissioning and ceasefire monitoring, based on Northern Ireland experience. We're supporting demining and unexploded ordnance - including with 4 million of new UK funding for the United Nations Mine Action Service and funding to surge in experts, including from British organisations such as the Halo Trust and Mines Advisory Group, whose impressive work I've recently seen first-hand. And on civil-military coordination, we have UK deployments into a dedicated US-led hub for Gaza stabilization efforts.

But beyond Gaza, stability in the West Bank is essential to any sustainable peace. I am concerned that the Palestinian Authority faces an economic crisis, induced by Israeli restrictions that are strangling the Palestinian economy.

The Netanyahu government should be extending, not threatening to end, the arrangements between Israeli and Palestinian banks - arrangements that are crucial to the everyday economy for Palestinians, it is crucial for stability - which is in Israel's interest too.

The pace of illegal settlement building continues. We have seen further appalling incidents of settler violence during the olive harvest. While I welcome Israeli President Herzog's expression of concern, the response of the Israeli authorities is insufficient, practically and legally.

Tackling settlement expansion and settler violence are vital to protecting a two-state solution - in line with the UK's historic decision to recognise the State of Palestine.

Madam Deputy Speaker, let me turn now to Sudan where the worst humanitarian crisis in the 21st century is still unfolding right now.

The UN humanitarian chief, Tom Fletcher, who has just visited the area, has described it as 'the epicentre of suffering in the world' - and he is right. Over 30 million people need lifesaving aid. Twelve million have been forced from their homes. Famine is spreading. cholera and preventable disease are rampant.

And in El Fasher, following the advances by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), horrifying scenes of atrocities, with mass executions, starvation, and the systematic use of rape as a weapon of war. Horrors so appalling they can be seen from space.

As the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) have put it, El Fasher is a crime scene. There are satellite pictures show discolouration of sand, consistent with pools of blood. Multiple clusters of objects consistent with piles of human bodies, and the apparent burning of bodies and operations to dispose of bodies in mass graves.

Further horrors will yet unfold unless greater action is taken. A year ago, Britain tabled a resolution at the UN Security Council demanding humanitarian access and civilian protection. But it was shamefully vetoed at that time by Russia. Six months ago, at our London Sudan conference, the UK brought international partners and secured 800 million in funding. But the situation continues to deteriorate, including with North Kordofan now under threat and fighting moving to El Obeid.

We need a complete step change in efforts to alleviate the suffering and bring about peace. That means more aid to those in need. The UK has committed over 125 million this year alone - delivering lifesaving support to over 650,000 people, treating children with severe malnutrition, providing water and medicine, and supporting survivors of rape.

The challenge is still access. The RSF still refuses safe passage to aid organisations around El Fasher. The Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) is bringing in new restrictions which stand to hinder aid. Both sides must allow unhindered passage for humanitarian workers, supplies, and for trapped civilians.

We are urgently pressing for a three-month humanitarian truce to open routes for life-saving supplies. But aid will not resolve a conflict wilfully driven by warring parties. So, we desperately need a lasting ceasefire underpinned by serious political process.

At the Manama Dialogue conference in Bahrain two weeks ago, I called for the same intense international efforts to address the crisis in Sudan as we have seen around Gaza.

At Niagara last week, I joined our G7 partners in calling for an immediate and permanent ceasefire, the unimpeded access of humanitarian aid and for external actors to contribute to the restoration of peace and security.

We are engaging intensively with the 'Quad' countries, the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the United States who have now together called for an immediate humanitarian truce and an end to external support and arms that are fuelling conflict. And I strongly support Secretary Rubio's latest comments regarding the need to end the weapons and support that the RSF is getting from outside Sudan.

And last Friday, the UK called a special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council in which a UK-drafted resolution was passed securing an international consensus for an urgent UN inquiry into alleged crimes in El-Fasher. Because impunity cannot be the outcome of these horrifying events.

We need to make sure that teams can get in to investigate these atrocities and hold the perpetrators to account. And I have instructed my officials to bring forward potential sanctions relating to human rights violations and abuses in Sudan. Madam Deputy Speaker, the UK will play its full part to ensure that it is the Sudanese people, not any warring party, that determine Sudan's future.

Wars that rage unresolved do not just cause untold harm to civilians, they radiate instability. They undermine the security of neighbouring states. They lead migrants to embark on dangerous journeys.

So we are striving to meet those urgent humanitarian needs, striving to secure not just the absence of conflict, but the presence of lasting peace. And from Gaza to Sudan, that can only be done through international cooperation and through countries coming together for peace.

I commend this statement to the House.

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Regional security and political cooperation is critical to addressing the threat of terrorism in West Africa and the Sahel: UK statement at the UN Security Council

Speech

Statement by Ambassador James Kariuki, UK Charge d'Affaires to the UN, at the UN Security Council meeting on West Africa.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and James Kariuki CMG

Published 18 November 2025

Location: United Nations, New York

Delivered on: 18 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

The United Kingdom shares the concern that Islamic State and Al-Qaeda affiliates are continuing to expand across West Africa and the Sahel, driving instability and committing deadly attacks against civilians. The fuel blockade in Mali imposed by Al-Qaeda-affiliate, JNIM, demonstrates the increasingly sophisticated tactics used by these groups.

I will make three points.

First, regional security and political cooperation is critical to addressing the threat of terrorism in West Africa and the Sahel.

We welcome the increased engagement between states in the region and encourage ECOWAS and AES members to continue deepening dialogue. We also welcome UNOWAS's efforts to facilitate cooperation.

Regionally-led security initiatives could play an important role in tackling the threat from terrorism. We welcome the work towards a standby force to enable rapid deployment to counter shared threats, and the work to build on the Multinational Joint Taskforce and ECOWAS' Counter-Terrorism Strategy.

We also note that the landmark Security Council resolution 2719 offers a potential tool through UN support to AU-led peace operations.

Second, the UK remains committed to working with African partners and supporting African-led initiatives to promote stability and security.

UK support includes funding and training for Nigeria's National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Cote d'Ivoire's Counter Terrorism Academy, and the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit, which supports the Multinational Joint Taskforce. These initiatives, working together, help strengthen intelligence sharing and regional resilience.

We also encourage countries in the region to choose security partners carefully to avoid worsening the threat posed.

Third, to defeat terrorism and insecurity, it is necessary to tackle the drivers.

This includes improving governance, reducing poverty, countering disinformation, protecting civic space and tackling climate change. Without progress in these areas, conflict and terrorism will continue to destroy local communities and disrupt livelihoods, with disproportionate harm to women and children. The UK remains committed to working with partners to address these drivers.

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Daily Press Briefing by the Office of the Spokesperson for the Secretary-General

Department of Public Information . News and Media Division . New York

18 November 2025

The following is a near-verbatim transcript of today's briefing by Farhan Haq, Deputy Spokesman for the Secretary-General.

** Briefing

Good afternoon, everyone.

At 12:45 p.m., there will be a briefing here in this room organized by our good friends at the UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) to launch the World Urbanization Prospects 2025: Summary of Results.

Speakers will be Bjrg Sandkjr, DESA's Assistant Secretary-General for Policy Coordination; along with John Wilmoth, whom you all know as DESA's Director of the Population Division; and Sara Hertog, DESA's Population Affairs Officer. And again, that will be in about 45 minutes from now.

** Secretary-General/COP30

This morning, in Belem, Brazil, where COP30 is taking place, the Secretary-General met with climate scientists, experts and economists. He also held a bilateral meeting with the Vice Minister of the People's Republic of China, Li Gao.

Yesterday afternoon, after his arrival back in Belem, the Secretary-General met with the COP30 President, Andre Aranha Correa do Lago. Marina Silva, Brazil's Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, was also present at the meeting. They discussed the positive and constructive tone of the ongoing negotiations. The Secretary-General emphasized that the outcomes of COP30 must respond to the urgency of the climate crisis and needs of the developing countries, especially those most vulnerable.

Later, the Secretary-General met the Director General of the International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA), Francesco La Camera, and he also held a meeting with the CEO of the European Climate Foundation, Ms. Laurence Tubiana.

This afternoon, the Secretary-General will meet negotiating parties and Ministers. He will also have a meeting with a Youth Advisory Group and will participate in a youth roundtable.

** Occupied Palestinian Territory

Turning to the Gaza Strip, the Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, said yesterday that Palestinians across Gaza are cold and soaked following recent rains, adding that frustration is growing as floods rise and what little people have is destroyed.

He reiterated that the UN and our partners are mobilizing to help, but much more is needed. Mr. Fletcher said that remaining restrictions must be lifted to urgently get more aid in.

On the ground in Gaza, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs stresses that we and our partners remain committed to providing life-saving support, including shelter. Humanitarians continue to distribute tents, tarpaulins and other essential items to affected families and assess people's needs to guide the response.

The UN is fast-tracking funds to bolster those efforts. The Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ramiz Alakbarov, has released $18 million from the Occupied Palestinian Territory Humanitarian Fund to support critical operations across Gaza as winter approaches and heavy rains begin to compound dire living conditions.

Those funds are already allowing partners to move ahead with more than 30 planned projects covering everything from food and nutrition to water, health, shelter, protection and other essential support.

Today, Dr. Alakbarov visited a site for displaced people in Gaza City, where some families are staying after last week's rainstorm destroyed their shelters. He also went to the Rantissi pediatric hospital, which is being rehabilitated to address extensive damage sustained during the war.

At the displacement site, Dr. Alakbarov spoke with families who urgently need basic assistance as winter draws near. He also appealed once again for more crossings, for more routes inside Gaza, and for NGOs to be able to bring in supplies.

Our partners report that as of Sunday, the number of operational health service points in Gaza rose to 219, compared with fewer than 200 in October. The 22 new service points include 12 primary healthcare centres, six medical points, and four hospitals in the northern governorates.

As you know, the catch-up vaccination campaign launched on 9 November is ongoing, with more than 7,000 children under the age of three already vaccinated during the first five days of that effort.

Meanwhile, our partners providing food assistance report that on Saturday, more than 1.3 million meals were distributed by more than two dozen partners through 195 kitchens. That includes over 180,000 meals distributed in northern Gaza and about 1.2 million in the Deir al Balah and Khan Younis governorates.

The UN and our partners also continue to provide general food assistance, reaching more than 64,000 households  that's about 320,000 people  as of Saturday.

** Gaza

We were asked yesterday about the adoption of the resolution on Gaza by the Security Council, and we said that it is an important step in the consolidation of the ceasefire, which the Secretary-General encourages all parties to abide by.

It is essential now to translate the diplomatic momentum into concrete and urgently needed steps on the ground. The United Nations is committed to implementing the roles entrusted to it in the resolution, scaling up humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of civilians in Gaza and supporting all efforts to move the parties towards the next phase of the ceasefire.

The Secretary-General underlines the importance of moving towards the second phase of the US plan, leading to a political process for the achievement of the two-State solution, in line with previous United Nations resolutions.

** Security Council

This morning, the Secretary-General delivered remarks virtually to the Security Council session on enhancing regional counter-terrorism cooperation in West Africa and the Sahel.

He told Council members that the security situation there is growing more critical by the day.

Established groups are expanding their reach. Several coastal States are under threat and we face the risk of a disastrous domino effect across the entire region.

According to the Global Terrorism Index, the Secretary-General said, five of the ten countries most affected by terrorism are in the Sahel.

This violence and instability are unleashing massive suffering.

He called for three areas of urgent action.

First, he said, this regional crisis demands a regional response, one that is unified, coherent and consensus-based.

Then, the Secretary-General added, humanitarian needs must be met. As the six humanitarian appeals in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin for 2025 remain severely underfunded, Mr. Guterres called on Member States to maintain strong financial support for humanitarian response plans in the region.

And third  the Secretary-General appealed for a coherent development strategy to address the conditions that lead to terrorism taking hold in the first place.

With coordinated efforts, political will, and the support of Member States and this Council, the Secretary-General said we can deliver the security, stability and opportunity that the people of West Africa and the Sahel need and deserve.

** South Sudan

In South Sudan, a mobile court supported by our mission (UNMISS) concluded its work today in Bunj, Upper Nile state. The court delivered decisions on 28 serious criminal cases, including murder and sexual and gender-based violence.

UNMISS says that the court convicted 23 people and released 22 others who had been wrongfully detained or had already served their sentences. Led by the country's judiciary and the Ministry of Justice, the mobile court helped clear a major backlog caused by the absence of a high court judge in the area since 2021. With a permanent judge now deployed to Bunj, justice services are expected to continue.

** Democratic Republic of the Congo

And turning to the Democratic Republic of the Congo, we join the head of our Peace Operations department, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, to welcome the signing of the Framework Agreement between the Government of the DRC and the AFC/M23, which establishes guiding principles towards peace.

We also express our appreciation for the support of regional and international partners, in particular Qatar, the United States, the African Union and Togo.

We encourage the parties to continue negotiations in good faith to translate these commitments into concrete progress on the ground. And, of course, our Peacekeeping Mission in the DRC (MONUSCO) remains fully committed to working alongside the Congolese people and authorities to support efforts towards lasting peace.

** Nigeria

Turning to Nigeria. We urge the swift release of 25 schoolgirls abducted following a reported attack on Monday on a girls' school in northern Nigeria. In a statement, the UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) stressed that this tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely.

UNICEF underscored that it continues to work with Government partners, civil society and communities to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe, inclusive learning environments across Nigeria, but these systems must be enforced to prevent future tragedies. The agency also calls for those responsible for this incident to be held to account in accordance with national and international standards.

** Haiti

From Haiti, the Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs tells us that people are fleeing their homes in the commune of Tabarre, in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, following armed attacks last week.

According to the International Organization for Migration, attacks on 13 and 14 November forced more than 600 people from their homes. Most remain in Tabarre, hosted by local families. These incidents come as the security situation in the capital continues to deteriorate. Attacks in the residential areas of Thomassin and Fermathe  previously considered relatively safe  drove more than 1,800 people to seek safety elsewhere.

By the end of October, the number of people displaced by violence had reached 1.4 million  the highest level recorded in the country and up by more than a third from last year. With insecurity rising, we urge all parties to protect civilians and ensure safe, rapid, unhindered humanitarian access to every community in need.

** Hunger Crisis

The World Food Programme (WFP) warned today of a deepening global hunger crisis, with 318 million people expected to face crisis-level hunger or worse next year; this is more than double the number in 2019.

Despite rising needs, falling humanitarian funding means that WFP can assist only about one third of those requiring support. In 2026, the agency aims to reach 110 million people at a cost of $13 billion but anticipates receiving barely half that amount.

WFP is urging the international community to invest in proven solutions to stop the spread of hunger and get back on track in 2026 towards a world with zero hunger.

** International Days

Today is World Day for the Prevention of and Healing from Child Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Violence. Children, especially girls, face heightened risks online, offline and in armed conflicts. These violations are grave human rights abuses, with lasting impacts on health and development.

Today also marks the start of World Antimicrobial Resistance Week, which raises awareness of antimicrobial resistance and promotes global action against drug-resistant pathogens. This year's theme is "Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future."

** Questions and Answers

Deputy Spokesman : That's it for me. Are there any questions? Yes. Edie.

Question : Two questions, Farhan. First, is the Secretary-General planning any calls or meetings to talk about specifics in implementing the Gaza resolution adopted yesterday by the Security Council?

Deputy Spokesman : Well, there's nothing no specific calls to highlight, but the Secretary-General is going to continue to be in touch with world leaders, both by phone and in person. He'll have some travels that we'll announce in the next days. So while he's meeting with different leaders, he will be talking about the steps forward in the Gaza peace process among the other topics he has of concern.

Question : And secondly, does the Secretary-General have any comment on a report issued today by Physicians for Human Rights saying that at least 94 Palestinians died in Israeli prisons in the last two years?

Deputy Spokesman : We have been clear about our concerns about Palestinian detainees and the need to protect their basic rights and their dignity. And this report is another example of the need to make sure that the conditions of all detainees are upheld.

Dezhi?

Question : A follow-up on Edie's question on yesterday's resolution. In that resolution, if I read it thoroughly enough, there's only one part that mentioned the United Nations, which is the humanitarian operations. What does the Secretary-General think the UN can do more than the humanitarian operations?

Deputy Spokesman : Well, as I said at the start of this briefing, we are committed to implementing the role that has been entrusted to the UN in the resolution. That includes scaling up humanitarian assistance to meet the needs of civilians in Gaza and supporting all efforts to move the parties towards the next phase of the ceasefire.

Question : So there will be a board of peace in that resolution. Have you been in contact with anybody to discuss whether UN representative should be on that board?

Deputy Spokesman : We are not part of the discussions at this stage, but, obviously, we are prepared to play any role that is involved in supporting the work of this resolution, including ensuring that we can move on to the subsequent phases of the ceasefire.

Question : The Russian representative yesterday told us he believes this resolution actually puts the UN aside. So what he said is that he believes this kind of mechanism will be lack of monitoring from the UN or the Security Council. What do you think of the resolution and the role played by the UN in this resolution is inadequate?

Deputy Spokesman : First of all, obviously, the very fact that the Security Council approved the resolution underscores that this is a resolution that the Council members themselves support and that this is something that the sponsors of the resolution wanted the Security Council to play a role in. And we'll see as it proceeds the role that the Security Council and the United Nations as a whole have to play.

Yes, please.

Question : Thank you, Farhan. A follow-up on Edie and Dezhi's question. The resolution 2803 stipulated forming an ISF, International Stabilization Force, through voluntary contributions. My question is at the end, when this force is on the ground, is it going to be under the blue helmet? Leadership command, or how it's going to work vis-a-vis the UN... [cross-talk]

Deputy Spokesman : I would suggest you look carefully at the text of the resolution. It doesn't mention a United Nations peacekeeping force in it.

Gabriel?

Question : Thanks, Farhan. On the resolution 2803, a question on the board of peace, which is going to play a critical role in the future governance of Gaza, at least for the next two years, the mandate's in place. If the Secretary-General was invited to partake in the board of peace, be on the board, would he accept?

Deputy Spokesman : We'll have to see what happens in the future. Obviously, we are willing to play any role that can help support the ceasefire and move us forward towards a two-State Solution.

Question : But one more follow-up on that, if I may, Farhan. When it came to the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation, the UN did not participate because of many reasons, but one being that it did not fall in line with the humanitarian principles of impartiality. This question isn't about the GHF. It's about the board of peace. Does the board of peace, what you know about it so far, fall in line with the principles that the UN could engage with it?

Deputy Spokesman : We would actually need to see the details about what the board of peace entails before we can make a reason judgment on that.

Yes, please.

Question : Hi. I'm Lily from Hong Kong Phoenix TV. My question is about Venezuela. President Trump said yesterday that he has not ruled out the possibility of sending troops to Venezuela, as a build up of The US force in the region. So does the UN consider these kind of, like, unilateral actions would be violate the UN Charter? Also, has the SG talked to any of the US official about it?

Deputy Spokesman : We have made our concerns clear, including from this podium. We want to make sure that there's no escalation in and around Venezuela and that all actions comply with the United Nations Charter and with international law.

Question : Follow-up. President Maduro said he is willing to talk to the US about it. So would the SG offer any of the diplomatic measure into it?

Deputy Spokesman : Well, our good offices are always available in any bilateral disputes if both parties want that. I haven't seen any sign that the parties want the UN to be involved, but certainly, we encourage dialogue between the US and Venezuela.

Yes.

Question : Thank you, Farhan. WFP [World Food Programme] put out a statement today saying that it can only help roughly one third of those in need. Can you tell us which country is most responsible for this decline in funding? Because that's what the statement says because of the decline in funding and then secondly, has the Secretary-General been trying to find alternative sources of revenue for WFP? Thank you.

Deputy Spokesman : So we want to make sure that the World Food Programme has the revenue that it needs. I actually read out the note about the World Food Programme and its lack of funding just a few minutes ago. So I'd refer you not just to what I said, but also to the full World Food Programme press release. But the basic point is that right now, they intend, next year, to reach 110 million people at a cost of $13 billion, but we anticipate that the World Food Programme might receive barely half that amount. So we want to make sure that it's much larger than any individual country's responsibility. We want to make sure that all donors live up to their responsibilities.

Question : But can you please tell us or, get back to us on the top five countries that have reduced their funding over the last year?

Deputy Spokesman : I would refer you to my colleagues in the World Food Programme, and I'm sure they'd be happy to provide the necessary information.

Yes. Yes, please.

Question : Thank you, Farhan. Last week, external affairs minister Jaishankar met the UN Chief. Do you have any readout of the meeting? And, also, minister Jaishankar said in the post or next that he looks forward to welcoming Guterres in India. Does the UN Chief plan to travel to India anytime soon or next year maybe?

Deputy Spokesman : Well, he's certainly willing to travel to India when circumstances allow it. I don't have any travel by the Secretary-General to India to confirm in the short term. And as for the meeting with minister Jaishankar, I don't have any particular details. Obviously, they discussed issues of mutual concern.

And with that, please come back at 12:45, and we'll meet with officials from DESA about the world urbanization prospects report for 2025.

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UNICEF calls for stronger protection of children following tragic school attack in Kebbi, Northwest Nigeria

UNICEF

Statement

18 November 2025

ABUJA, 17 November 2025 -- "UNICEF strongly condemns the reported attack on a Government Girls School in the Maga community of Kebbi State, in Northwest Nigeria, which resulted in the death of the school's Vice-Principal of the school and the reported abduction of 25 students. This tragic incident is yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to protect children, schools and the personnel they rely upon to learn safely.

"We stand with the affected community at this difficult time. Our heartfelt condolences go to those who have lost their loved ones, and we wish a full recovery for those injured.

"UNICEF further urges the swift release of the abducted children.

"Students, education facilities, and their personnel should be protected under international law from any form of attack, and those responsible for this incident must be held to account in accordance with national and international standards.

"In 2015, the Nigerian government endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration, which outlines concrete steps to safeguard the civilian nature of schools and universities to ensure safe access of students to education during conflict. UNICEF calls on all relevant stakeholders to continue efforts to implement the Safe Schools Declaration in Nigeria.

"UNICEF is working with government partners, civil society and communities to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe and inclusive learning environments across the country. These systems and environments must be reinforced to prevent future tragedies.

"No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education."

#####

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Gaza: After Security Council breakthrough, agencies highlight youngsters' plight

18 November 2025 - As UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres hailed Monday's Security Council resolution paving the way for a consolidated ceasefire via a temporary International Stabilization Force in Gaza, UN aid teams warned that many Palestinian children in the enclave are in no shape to endure another harsh winter.

"We're very optimistic that the peace plans will improve the situation," UN Children's Fund (UNICEF) spokesperson Ricardo Pires said, briefing reporters in Geneva on Tuesday. "But again, the reality for children on the ground continues to be very tragic."

"We're still in the hypotheticals," UN aid coordination office (OCHA) spokesperson Jens Laerke said, regarding the Security Council resolution on the US peace plan, stressing that it "needs some meat on the bones", but recalling the UN chief's backing for the development.

The resolution endorsing the "Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict" announced by US President Trump on 29 September received backing from 13 countries on the Security Council. China and Russia abstained from the vote.

Catch up on our full coverage of the Security Council resolution here.

A Board of Peace

The resolution welcomes the transitional administration known as the "Board of Peace" - which President Donald Trump will reportedly chair - to establish a temporary international force in Gaza and coordinate reconstruction efforts including the delivery of humanitarian assistance.

In a statement issued by his Spokesperson overnight, the UN Secretary-General encouraged respect for the fragile ceasefire by all parties to the conflict, which was sparked by Hamas-led terror attacks in Israel on 7 October 2023.

Mr. Guterres acknowledged the "continued diplomatic efforts" of Egypt, Qatar, Turkiye, the United States and regional neighbours regarding the Gaza crisis, before stressing the importance of "moving towards" the second phase of the U.S. Plan, "leading to a political process for the achievement of the two-State solution, in line with previous United Nations resolutions".

Exposed to more hardship

Meanwhile in Gaza, aid agencies stressed on Tuesday that more than two years of destructive war between Hamas fighters and Israel and a chronic lack of all forms of assistance have left the enclave's people exhausted.

In recent days, heavy rains have inundated worn-out tents that are sheltering people displaced multiple times because of the war, said Ricardo Pires, from the UN Children's Fund, UNICEF.

"We are seeing heartbreaking stories of desperate families feeling completely lost and exhausted after their tents got flooded," he told journalists in Geneva. "When children are sleeping in flooded tents without warm clothing or dry bedding, many lacking the required nutrition, with very low immunity and already traumatized by conflict, winter becomes extremely dangerous."

Mr. Pires noted that the recent bad weather in Gaza has sparked an increase in people seeking medical help - particularly among children weakened by "years of malnutrition, starvation, trauma (and) multiple displacements".

The UNICEF officer also explained that because Israeli forces occupy more than 50 per cent of the enclave, many of the areas where Palestinians have been forced to seek shelter are coastal and the most prone to flooding.

Zikim aid boost

In a call for greater aid access, he stressed this was "part of the [peace] deal and we need to see more humanitarian corridors open".

According to OCHA, more than 5,400 metric tonnes of aid were collected between Thursday and Sunday, including shelter, medical and food items. The Zikim border crossing has reopened after staying shut for two months, bringing the number of available crossings to three.

Mr. Pires highlighted the importance of Zikim opening and said that recently UNICEF managed to bring in 96 pallets of high energy biscuits destined for the famine-stricken north of Gaza.

"We need more, a lot more," he said. "Hopefully with the new plan, that will become a reality for children and families."



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UNICEF condemns deadly Nigeria school attack, demands urgent protection for students

18 November 2025 - UNICEF has strongly condemned a deadly attack on a school in Kebbi State, northwest Nigeria, which left the Vice-Principal dead and resulted in the reported abduction of at least 25 students.

"No child should be put at risk while pursuing an education," UNICEF said, stressing that classrooms must remain places of safety, not fear.

According to local reports, one of the abducted schoolgirls managed to escape and is now safe, while another student who was not taken also fled during the incident.

Speaking at the daily noon briefing in New York, the deputy UN Spokesperson Farhan Haq called for the swift release of all those abducted.

UNICEF extended condolences to the affected families, voiced solidarity with the community, and wished a full recovery to the injured.

Call for protection

The agency underlined that students, teachers and education facilities must be protected from all forms of violence, in line with international humanitarian and human rights law. It urged accountability for those responsible, in accordance with national and international standards.

Nigeria endorsed the Safe Schools Declaration in 2015, committing to protect the civilian character of education facilities and ensure safe access to learning during conflict.

The Declaration, launched at the First International Conference on Safe Schools in Oslo, Norway, seeks to reduce attacks on education and safeguard learning environments worldwide.

UNICEF said it continues to work closely with government partners, civil society and communities to strengthen child protection systems and promote safe, inclusive learning spaces across the country, stressing that stronger safeguards can help prevent future tragedies.

Abductions impede learning

Attacks on schools and the abduction of students remain a major barrier to learning in Nigeria. A UNICEF report released last year to mark 10 years since the notorious Chibok kidnappings found that only 37 per cent of schools across 10 states have early warning systems to detect threats, including violence and armed attacks.

The Minimum Standards for Safe Schools (MSSS) Monitoring Report revealed sharp disparities in safety across six core areas: school governance, violence prevention, natural hazards, conflict, everyday risks and safe infrastructure.

The findings underscored that ensuring all Nigerian children can learn without fear remains an urgent and unfinished task.

UNICEF reiterated that education is a fundamental right and insisted that protecting children, teachers and school infrastructure must remain a national and global priority.







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Today's top news: Occupied Palestinian Territory, Haiti

UNOCHA - United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs

Occupied Palestinian Territory

UN Relief Chief stresses need to get more aid into Gaza after recent rains

The Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs and Emergency Relief Coordinator, Tom Fletcher, said yesterday that Palestinians across Gaza are cold and soaked following recent rains, adding that frustration is growing as floods rise and what little people have is destroyed.

He reiterated that the UN and its partners are mobilizing to help, but much more is needed. Mr. Fletcher said that remaining restrictions must be lifted to urgently get more aid in.

On the ground in Gaza, OCHA stresses that the UN and its partners remain committed to providing life-saving support, including shelter. Humanitarians continue to distribute tents, tarpaulins and other essential items to affected families and assess people's needs to guide the response.

The UN is fast-tracking funds to bolster those efforts. The Humanitarian Coordinator for the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Dr. Ramiz Alakbarov, has released US$18 million from the occupied Palestinian territory Humanitarian Fund to support critical operations across Gaza as winter approaches and heavy rains begin to compound dire living conditions.

Those funds are already allowing partners to move ahead with more than 30 planned projects covering everything from food and nutrition to water, health, shelter, protection and other essential support.*

Today, Dr. Alakbarov visited a site for displaced people in Gaza city, where some families are staying after last week's rainstorm destroyed their shelters. He also went to the Rantissi pediatric hospital, which is being rehabilitated to address extensive damage sustained during the war.

At the displacement site, Dr. Alakbarov spoke with families who urgently need basic assistance as winter draws near. He also appealed once again for more crossings, for more routes inside Gaza, and for NGOs to be able to bring in supplies.

Regarding healthcare, partners report that as of Sunday, the number of operational health service points in Gaza rose to 219, compared with fewer than 200 in October. The 22 new service points include 12 primary healthcare centres, six medical points, and four hospitals in the northern governorates.

The catch-up vaccination campaign launched on 9 November is ongoing, with more than 7,000 children under the age of three already vaccinated during the first five days of that effort.

Meanwhile, partners providing food assistance report that on Saturday, more than 1.3 million meals were distributed by more than two dozen partners through 195 kitchens - over 180,000 in northern Gaza and about 1.2 million in Deir al Balah and Khan Younis governorates.

The UN and its partners also continue to provide general food assistance, reaching more than 64,000 households - about 320,000 people - as of Saturday.

*Donations made to UN Crisis Relief help UN agencies and humanitarian NGOs reach people in Gaza and the West Bank with urgent support.

Haiti

Hundreds displaced by attacks in Tabarre

OCHA says that people are fleeing their homes in the commune of Tabarre - in the metropolitan area of Port-au-Prince, Haiti - following armed attacks last week.

According to the International Organization for Migration, attacks on 13 and 14 November forced more than 600 people from their homes. Most remain in Tabarre, hosted by local families.

These incidents come as the security situation in the capital continues to deteriorate. Attacks in the residential areas of Thomassin and Fermathe - previously considered relatively safe - drove more than 1,800 to seek safety elsewhere.

By the end of October, the number of people displaced by violence had reached 1.4 million - the highest level recorded in the country and up by more than a third from last year.

With insecurity rising, OCHA urges all parties to protect civilians and ensure safe, rapid, unhindered humanitarian access to every community in need.

Posted on 18 November 2025

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Sahel Now Accounts for Half of Global Terror Deaths, Secretary-General Tells Security Council, Urging Coordinated Action

Meetings Coverage

Security Council

10047th Meeting (AM)

SC/16226

18 November 2025

The Security Council today debated strengthening regional counter-terrorism cooperation in West Africa and the Sahel  now the global epicentre of violent extremism  with speakers urging unified, long-term strategies that confront both immediate threats and the underlying drivers of instability, from poverty and weak governance to climate shocks and limited economic opportunity.

In recent years, three Sahel States  Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger  suspended their participation in the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), citing political and security considerations. This departure has created a gap in regional coordination, complicating collective responses to escalating violent extremism across the Sahel.

Addressing the Council, United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned that the security situation in West Africa and the Sahel is "growing more critical by the day", citing escalating terrorist attacks, worsening fuel blockades in Mali and a looming "disastrous domino effect across the entire region".

Armed groups, including Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin (JNIM), Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), and Boko Haram, are expanding, driving mass displacement, shuttering over 14,800 schools and 900 health facilities, and leaving millions without essential services. Stressing that the Sahel accounts for over half of global terrorism casualties, he outlined three urgent actions.

First, he called for a unified, consensus-based regional response, urging ECOWAS, the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), Mauritania, Chad and Algeria to rebuild trust, share intelligence and coordinate operations. He cautioned that the failure to establish predictable financing for the G5 Sahel "has proven to be a strategic error with clear and dramatic consequences".

Second, he appealed for strong, predictable humanitarian funding. Six 2025 appeals for the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin require $4.9 billion but remain severely underfunded, with Mali's plan only 16 per cent financed. "The world needs to stand in full solidarity with the people of this region," he said.

Third, he called for a coherent development strategy to address the root causes of extremism  poverty, weak governance, social fractures, climate shocks and lack of opportunity. Terrorists thrive where the social contract is broken, he said, urging increased investment in inclusive services, human rights, climate adaptation, social protection and sustainable jobs to help transform despair into hope.

Reaffirming the UN's commitment through UNOWAS and the Global Counter-Terrorism Compact, he stressed that coordinated efforts, strong political will and Member State support can deliver "the security, stability and opportunity that the people of West Africa and the Sahel need and deserve".

Fragmented Initiatives Undermine Fight against Terrorism in West Africa

Omar Alieu Touray, President of the ECOWAS Commission, said terrorism now "poses an existential threat to the whole of West Africa", citing 450 attacks and over 1,900 deaths across the region between January and November 2025. Extremist groups have expanded into "economic warfare" by restricting fuel supplies and crippling trade. ECOWAS has accelerated deployment of its standby force, starting with 1,650 personnel and scaling up to 5,000, funded through ECOWAS resources, partners and resolution 2719 (2023).

Warning that fragmented initiatives and high suspicion among States undermine intelligence sharing, he stressed that "no amount of money, no amount of equipment will help us overcome terror if we don't collaborate and build trust". He called for predictable financing for the standby force, coordinated region-owned efforts, disruption of terrorist financing and strengthened enforcement and border controls, noting the transnational nature of the threat demands collective action and sustained political will.

Sierra Leone President Julius Maada Bio, Council President for November, speaking in his national capacity, said: "Africa's peace is not a favour to be granted, but a foundation of global stability." Speaking as Chair of the ECOWAS Authority of Heads of State, representing over 424 million citizens, he emphasized democratic governance, regional unity and ECOWAS' zero tolerance for unconstitutional changes of Government. Stressing pragmatism alongside principle, he noted the peoples of Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger are "our neighbours and kin", and ECOWAS will keep its doors open until full reintegration is possible.

"If we fail to act decisively, the Sahel could become a permanent sanctuary for extremist enclaves," he warned. Intelligence sharing, air mobility, logistics and surveillance are essential tools. The representative of Sierra Leone will host the ECOWAS Logistics Depot in Lungi and called for implementation of resolution 2719 (2023). He highlighted the need to address the trust deficit between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States, between global powers, and between former colonizers and independent States, viewing the Alliance "not as adversary, but as partner". ECOWAS, the African Union and the UN, through UNOWAS and the United Nations Office of Counter-Terrorism, can facilitate joint platforms, fusion centres and real-time coordination.

Coordinated Support Key to Strengthening Regional Counter-Terrorism

Several delegations emphasized the importance of supporting African-led initiatives. The United Kingdom reaffirmed its commitment to working with African partners, providing funding and training for Nigeria's National Counter-Terrorism Centre, Cote d'Ivoire's Counter-Terrorism Academy and the Regional Intelligence Fusion Unit supporting the Multinational Joint Taskforce. These efforts aim to strengthen intelligence sharing and regional resilience. Greece highlighted the risks to maritime routes in the Gulf of Guinea, stressing the economic consequences of piracy and illegal activities, and detailed Greek participation in capacity-building exercises.

Cote d'Ivoire's International Counterterrorism Academy, operational since 2021, seeks to foster a culture of counter-terrorism across Africa, the country's delegate said. However, insufficient resources and the fragmentation of existing frameworks have limited their effectiveness. In this context, increased engagement and mobilization by the international community  particularly the Security Council  are indispensable.

Pakistan noted that 5 of the 10 countries most affected by extremism are in the Sahel and that threats are spreading to coastal West Africa. He emphasized that the people of West Africa and the Sahel "deserve a future defined not by fear, but by peace, dignity and development", calling for sustained political will, predictable international support and collective resolve. China stressed the importance of respecting the sovereignty of States, while investing in development, employment and youth engagement to address root causes.

The Russian Federation highlighted the Kremlin's support for African countries, offering training, technical assistance and capacity-building in law enforcement, border security, counter-terrorism finance and inter-agency coordination, as having received "highly positive feedback" from African partners.

Denmark highlighted the severe humanitarian consequences of the deteriorating security situation, stressing that "instability anywhere is a threat to stability everywhere" and called on Burkina Faso, Mali and Niger to recommit to cooperation with ECOWAS and the African Union. Speaking for the Alliance of Sahel States, Mali's representative emphasized: "We are fully open to cooperation with regional countries and partners, in full respect of our sovereignty, strategic choices and the interests of our peoples." Burkina Faso added that the fight cannot be won without coherent, predictable support free from political considerations and must address the root causes of violence, including poverty, marginalization and lack of opportunities for youth.

Socioeconomic Drivers behind Expanding Terror Networks

The delegate of the United States expressed concern over fuel blockades in Mali and the use of kidnapping as a funding tactic, and also condemned attacks against Christians in Nigeria, warning that "churches are burning, villages are being razed". He called for decisive African leadership in response. France stressed that military solutions alone are insufficient, emphasizing the need to address socioeconomic factors, governance challenges and disinformation, alongside implementation of resolution 2719 (2023).

Panama underscored the importance of a comprehensive approach combining security, development and governance, including the participation of women, youth, academia and the private sector. The Republic of Korea noted that armed groups are using advanced technologies, including drones, and emphasized artificial intelligence (AI)-enabled tools to counter extremist narratives.

Somalia called for intelligence sharing, joint border operations and rapid-response capabilities, warning that "fragmentation only benefits terrorist networks". On that, Slovenia stressed that "trust must be urgently restored" and collaboration among countries re-established, with intelligence sharing, early warning systems and joint prevention central to stability. Similarly, Ghana stressed dialogue between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States to rebuild trust and consolidate peace.

Algeria and Guyana highlighted the need for regional coordination through African Union mechanisms, intelligence collaboration and disruption of illicit financial networks. Senegal emphasized support based on the spirit of "African solutions to African problems" and the need for sustainable financing to overcome divisions.

In summary, Council members highlighted that effective regional security depends on coordinated, inclusive and adequately financed African-led initiatives, complemented by targeted international support addressing immediate threats and underlying socioeconomic vulnerabilities.

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Iran condemns continuation of Israeli brutalities against Palestinians

IRNA - Islamic Republic News Agency

Nov 19, 2025

New York, IRNA -- Iranian Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the United Nations (UN) Amir Saeid Iravani has condemned the continued atrocities and brutalities of the Israeli regime against the Palestinians and Syrians.

Addressing the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) session of the UN, Iravani said that Israel has deliberately disregarded successive advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice, which affirm its obligation to cease its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, halt all settlement activities, and evacuate settlers.

He added that it is unacceptable that this regime has revealed its malign and non-peaceful nature by systematically eroding the legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations.

The full text Ambassador Iravani's speech is as follows:

Statement by

H.E. Mr. Amir Saeid Iravani

The Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran to the United Nations at the Special Political and Decolonization Committee (Fourth Committee) Agenda Items 50: "Israeli Practices and Settlement Activities Affecting the Rights of the Palestinian People and Other Arabs of the Occupied Territories"

New York - 18 November 2025

In the Name of God, the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful

Mr. Chair,

At the outset, I would like to extend our appreciation to the Chair of the Special Committee and to the Assistant Secretary General for their presentations on the reports concerning the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory (OPT) and the Occupied Syrian Golan. In addition to continued occupational actions and policies, including the expansion of illegal settlements, it is deeply regrettable that credible reports have documented widespread torture and sexual violence against Palestinians, while the humanitarian toll has been catastrophic, with nearly 70,000 civilianspredominantly women and childrenhaving been killed by the Israeli regime.

It is unacceptable that this regime has revealed its malign and non-peaceful nature by systematically eroding the legitimacy and effectiveness of the United Nations. Israel has deliberately disregarded successive advisory opinions of the International Court of Justice, which affirm its obligation to cease its unlawful presence in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, halt all settlement activities, and evacuate settlers. Most recently, Israeli authorities openly rejected the ICJ's advisory opinion, dismissing it as biased and illegitimate, while the Court clearly documented Israel's breaches of international lawincluding the prohibition of starvation as a method of warfareand ordered it to facilitate humanitarian relief in Gaza through the United Nations and its agencies. Iran strongly condemns these misleading assertions by Israeli authorities against the UN and its main bodies, and considers them a flagrant defiance of international law and the authority of the United Nations.

Mr. Chair, Distinguished Delegates,

The unabated expansion of illegal settlements in the Occupied Palestinian Territory remains a matter of grave concerns. This year alone, according to official announcements by the authorities of the Israeli occupying regime, approximately 30,000 additional settlement units are planned, further deepening and widening the already extensive network of unlawful settlements. Such actions, compounded by recent Israeli Knesset's approval of legislation aimed at annexing the occupied West Bank and imposing alleged Israeli sovereignty over it, must be firmly rejected by the international community.

We also express our profound concern over the ongoing blockade of Gaza and the extensive destruction of its infrastructures, including schools, hospitals, and residential areas. These atrocities, compounded by weaponizing starvation as a method of warfare, not only intensify human suffering but also undermine the inalienable rights of the Palestinian people, including their right of return and to live in dignity in their homeland.

The General Assembly is deeply alarmed by reports indicating that, in the past month alone, hundreds of ceasefire violations have occurred in Gaza and more than 270 Palestinians have been killed, with many more injured. This situation is profoundly regrettable, particularly as civiliansincluding childrenwho had placed their hopes in the ceasefire have instead been subjected to renewed bombardments and violence by Israeli forces as well as its armed settlers. Such actions reflect the conduct of a non-compliant actor, which acts in bad faith and consistently fails to honor its commitments.

Accordingly, the Islamic Republic of Iran is steadfast in its support of any credible initiative aimed at ending the genocide in Gaza, ensuring the complete withdrawal of occupying forces, establishing a permanent ceasefire, facilitating the unhindered delivery of humanitarian aid, and restoring the inalienable and fundamental rights of the Palestinian people; however, we stress that any plan concerning Gaza or other parts of the Palestinian territory that fails to incorporate or reflect the views and aspirations of all Palestinian people, are pursued as part of a broader colonial strategy and blatantly disregard the rights of the Palestinian people, foremost among them, the right to self-determination. These actions constitute a clear manifestation of colonialism, persisting despite repeated calls from the international community for its cessation.

Mr. Chair,

Distinguished Delegates,

In regards to the adoption of the U.S. draft resolution yesterday, we noted the concerns expressed by Security Council members, over the mechanisms contained in the Resolution, which seek to circumvent the responsibilities of the United Nations and the Security Council itself. Nevertheless, many members, while voicing these concerns, voted in favor of the resolution with the immediate and primary objective of halting the bloodshed and genocide in Gaza, protecting the lives of Palestinian civiliansincluding women and childrenensuring a durable ceasefire, facilitating broad humanitarian assistance, and guaranteeing the full withdrawal of Israeli occupying forces.

The Islamic Republic of Iran reiterates that this resolution and its mechanisms must not be interpreted or implemented in a manner that violates or undermines the fundamental rights of the Palestinian people, including their right to self-determination and the establishment of an independent Palestinian state. Gaza is an integral part of Palestinian territory, and its unity and territorial integrity must be fully preserved. It must be administered under a Palestinian transitional committee. As stressed by many Council members, no annexation, occupation, or forced displacement should be permitted or justified under this new resolution. Humanitarian aid must flow freely and be distributed throughout Gaza through UN agencies, without interference.

My delegation believes that ending the war against the people of Gaza, however vital, does not absolve member states or competent international bodies of their shared legal, moral, and humanitarian obligations to ensure justice and accountability. True justice requires full accountability. The perpetrators and masterminds of war crimes, genocide, and crimes against humanity in Gaza must be prosecuted, and the decades-long culture of impunity surrounding the Israeli regime must finally end.

Last but not least, Mr. Chair, with regard to the occupied territory of the Syrian Arab Republic, Iran strongly condemns the ongoing illegal Israeli presence, military actions, and further invasions, which have resulted in the death and injury of Syrian citizens as well as the destruction of vital infrastructure. In line with relevant UN resolutions, we reiterate that Israel's attempt to impose its laws, jurisdiction, and administration on the occupied Syrian Golan Heights is null and void and has no validity under international law.

I thank you, Mr. Chair.

2050

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AFSC - Alternative Platforms

With the E-7 eliminated and only a decade remaining until mandatory E-3 retirement, NATO and individual member nations have begun evaluating alternative platforms. The options under serious consideration reflect diverse strategic philosophies and operational priorities:

Saab GlobalEye: The European Frontrunner

The Swedish Saab GlobalEye has emerged as the leading candidate for NATO's AWACS replacement and represents the most immediate viable alternative to the cancelled E-7 program. Built on the Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet platform, the GlobalEye embodies a fundamentally different operational philosophy from traditional large-aircraft AWACS platforms. Rather than maximizing onboard crew capacity and extended endurance, the GlobalEye emphasizes survivability, multi-domain sensor integration, and cost-effectiveness through a distributed network architecture.

France has already committed to acquiring the GlobalEye to replace its independent E-3F fleet, which operates separately from NATO's collective E-3A force. This French decision carries significant weight, as France maintains one of Europe's most sophisticated defense industries and has historically prioritized strategic autonomy. Germany and Denmark have expressed strong interest in the platform, suggesting potential for a multinational European acquisition program that could provide the scale necessary for cost management and shared operational capabilities.

The GlobalEye's sensor suite represents its most distinctive feature. The primary surveillance radar is Saab's Erieye ER (Extended Range) AESA system, mounted in a dorsal fin configuration. This radar uses advanced Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology for enhanced detection range and electronic warfare resistance. Critically, the GlobalEye also incorporates a dedicated maritime surveillance radarthe Leonardo Seaspray 7500Emounted on the aircraft's belly, providing specialized capabilities for detecting surface vessels and submarines that complement the air surveillance mission. Additional electro-optical and infrared sensors enable visual identification and tracking of targets.

This multi-domain sensor architecture makes the GlobalEye particularly effective for nations with extensive maritime boundaries or complex operational requirements spanning air, sea, and ground domains. For Arctic operationsincreasingly critical for NATO as Russian activity in the High North expandsthe GlobalEye's maritime radar and ground moving target indication (GMTI) capabilities offer advantages for monitoring both naval activity and ground forces across vast, sparsely populated regions.

E-2D Advanced Hawkeye: The Tactical Option

The U.S. Navy's E-2D Advanced Hawkeye has been proposed as a potential bridging solution, though significant questions exist about its suitability for NATO's requirements. Designed primarily for carrier-based operations, the E-2D is substantially smaller than either the E-7 or GlobalEye, with a typical crew of five personnel and more limited endurance. Its AN/APY-9 AESA radar provides excellent capability within its operational envelope, and its ability to operate from carriers and short runways offers tactical flexibility that larger platforms cannot match.

However, the E-2D's smaller size translates directly to reduced onboard battle management capacity, lower operational speed (approximately 600 km/h versus 850 km/h for the GlobalEye), and shorter unrefueled range. For the broad-area surveillance and extended-duration missions that NATO AWACS aircraft routinely performsuch as monitoring the entire Baltic Sea region or providing continuous coverage over Eastern European airspacethe E-2D's limitations become significant. Multiple E-2D aircraft would be required to provide the coverage area and mission duration of a single larger platform, substantially increasing operational complexity and cost.

The USAF's consideration of the E-2D appears primarily motivated by interim necessity rather than optimal capability match. As the existing E-3 fleet ages and mission-capable rates decline, some temporary solution may be necessary if space-based surveillance systems and other alternatives cannot be deployed quickly enough. For NATO's long-term replacement program, however, the E-2D seems poorly suited to the Alliance's operational requirements.

Dassault Falcon 10X and Other Business Jet Conversions

The French aerospace company Dassault Aviation proposed a modified version of its Falcon 10X business jet as an AWACS platform during the initial RFI phase. This concept would have offered similar advantages to the GlobalEyebusiness jet economics, lower operational costs, and reduced radar signaturewhile potentially providing greater cabin volume and endurance due to the Falcon 10X's larger size compared to the Bombardier Global 6000/6500.

However, the Falcon 10X AWACS concept has effectively been eliminated from consideration following France's decision to acquire the GlobalEye for its national requirement. The GlobalEye's proven operational status with multiple customers (United Arab Emirates, Sweden, and now France) contrasts with the speculative nature of a Falcon-based system that would require extensive development. Given time constraints and the imperative to field capabilities before 2035, developmental risk has become a decisive factor against unproven concepts.

L3Harris similarly pitched a Bombardier Global 6500-based solution utilizing a Conformal Airborne Early Warning (CAEW) radar system during the RFI phase. While technically feasible, this approach would compete directly with the more mature GlobalEye offering while potentially lacking Saab's specialized multi-domain sensor integration and operational experience.

System-of-Systems Concepts

Beyond individual platform replacements, NATO continues to explore more ambitious "system of systems" architectures that would distribute surveillance and battle management functions across multiple platforms and domains. This approach might combine high-altitude long-endurance (HALE) unmanned aerial vehicles for persistent surveillance, space-based sensors for strategic early warning, ground-based radars for regional coverage, maritime platforms for sea control, and manned command-and-control aircraft for tactical battle management.

The theoretical advantages of such distributed architectures include enhanced survivability (no single point of failure), greater coverage area, and the ability to tailor sensor deployment to specific operational requirements. However, the technical complexity of integrating multiple systems with different data formats, communication protocols, and command structures presents enormous challenges. NATO's experience with multinational operations demonstrates the difficulty of achieving seamless interoperability even among similar systems operated by different nations. Expanding this to fundamentally different platforms across multiple domains multiplies these integration challenges.

Moreover, system-of-systems approaches typically require longer development timelines and involve greater programmatic risk than acquiring proven platforms. With the 2035 deadline approaching rapidly, NATO may lack the time necessary to develop, test, and operationalize such complex architectures. More likely, distributed capabilities will evolve gradually over time, supplementing rather than replacing traditional airborne platforms in the near term.

Comparative Analysis: E-7 Wedgetail vs. Saab GlobalEye

Understanding the strategic implications of NATO's choice between continued pursuit of the E-7 (despite American withdrawal) and adoption of the GlobalEye alternative requires detailed examination of how these platforms differ in capability, operational philosophy, and strategic fit.

Platform Specifications and Design Philosophy

Feature Boeing E-7 Wedgetail Saab GlobalEye Airframe Boeing 737 Next Generation airliner Bombardier Global 6000/6500 business jet Length 39 m / 128 ft 30 m / 99 ft Wingspan 36 m / 118 ft 29 m / 94 ft Maximum Takeoff Weight 79,000 kg / 174,000 lb 45,000 kg / 99,000 lb Cruise Speed 850 km/h / 530 mph 900 km/h / 560 mph Service Ceiling 12,500 m / 41,000 ft 15,500 m / 51,000 ft Primary Radar Northrop Grumman MESA L-band AESA in dorsal "top hat" Saab Erieye ER AESA in dorsal fin Radar Coverage Full 360-degree continuous coverage Primary coverage to sides; requires maneuvering for continuous 360-degree area surveillance Maritime Radar None (air surveillance optimized) Leonardo Seaspray 7500E belly-mounted maritime surveillance radar Operator Consoles 10-12 standard, up to 19 augmented 5-6 stations Operational Range ~7,000 km / 4,300 mi ~9,200 km / 5,700 mi Mission Endurance ~10 hours, extendable via in-flight refueling ~11 hours, no in-flight refueling on current models In-Flight Refueling Standard capability Not equipped on current customer aircraft Operating Cost per Flight Hour ~$20,000 USD ~$15,000 USD Acquisition Cost (estimated) $2.0-2.5 billion per unit $1.5-2.0 billion per unit

Operational Philosophy and Strategic Implications

The E-7 and GlobalEye represent fundamentally different approaches to airborne early warning and control. The E-7 embodies traditional AWACS philosophy: a large, capable platform functioning as a flying command center with extensive onboard crew capacity for complex battle management. Its design assumes operations in permissive or semi-permissive airspace where the platform can remain on station for extended periods, orchestrating air operations across theater-wide areas. The E-7's 360-degree radar coverage and large operator complement enable it to simultaneously track hundreds of targets, coordinate dozens of friendly aircraft, and manage complex air-to-air and air-to-ground scenarios.

This capability comes with inherent vulnerabilities in contested environments. A Boeing 737-sized aircraft presents a large radar cross-section easily detectable by modern surface-to-air missile systems at ranges exceeding 250 km (155 mi). Against adversaries equipped with S-400, S-500, or advanced fighter aircraft, an E-7 would need to operate well behind front lines, potentially reducing its effective sensor coverage of forward areas. The platform's size and heat signature make it vulnerable to long-range air-to-air missiles, and its relatively modest speed (850 km/h) limits its ability to rapidly reposition or escape threat envelopes.

The GlobalEye adopts a different philosophy emphasizing survivability through reduced detectability and distributed operations. Its business jet airframe produces a significantly smaller radar cross-section and infrared signature, making it harder to detect and track at long ranges. Operating at higher altitudes (15,500 m versus 12,500 m for the E-7) further reduces vulnerability to many surface-to-air missile systems while actually improving radar line-of-sight to distant targets. The GlobalEye's faster cruise speed (900 km/h) provides better ability to reposition quickly or evade threats.

Rather than concentrating battle management functions onboard, the GlobalEye emphasizes data streaming to ground stations and integration with broader network architectures. Its 5-6 operator stations handle immediate tactical tasks and sensor management, while extensive surveillance data flows to ground-based command centers where larger analyst teams can process information and coordinate operations. This distributed approach means that loss of a single GlobalEye aircraft, while serious, does not eliminate the entire battle management capability as might occur with an E-7 carrying 19 operators managing theater-wide operations.

Radar and Sensor Performance

The E-7's MESA radar is generally considered to provide superior raw performance in terms of maximum detection range against aerial targets, primarily due to its larger physical aperture and L-band frequency selection. L-band radars offer advantages for long-range detection and better penetration through atmospheric conditions and certain types of jamming, though with reduced resolution compared to higher frequencies. The MESA's 360-degree coverage without physical rotation represents a significant advantage over the older E-3's mechanical rotodome, providing continuous surveillance without blind spots during rotation cycles.

The GlobalEye's Erieye ER radar uses more modern Gallium Nitride technology, which provides improved power efficiency, better electronic counter-countermeasures capability, and enhanced reliability compared to older gallium arsenide-based systems. However, the Erieye ER's configuration optimizes coverage to the sides of the aircraft rather than providing uniform 360-degree surveillance. To maintain continuous coverage of a specific area, GlobalEye aircraft must fly in oval or circular patterns, which may be less efficient for on-station time than the E-7's typical racetrack pattern.

Where the GlobalEye demonstrates clear superiority is in multi-domain surveillance. Its dedicated maritime surveillance radar provides specialized capabilities for detecting surface vessels, submarine periscopes, and maritime activity that complement its air surveillance mission. The Seaspray 7500E radar operates in X-band for high-resolution imaging of surface targets and includes modes for synthetic aperture radar (SAR) ground mapping and ground moving target indication (GMTI). This multi-domain capability makes the GlobalEye particularly effective for scenarios requiring simultaneous air, maritime, and ground surveillanceincreasingly common in modern military operations.

Battle Management and Command Capacity

The most significant operational difference between platforms lies in onboard battle management capacity. The E-7's 10-19 operator positions enable extensive onboard command and control functions. Multiple operators can simultaneously manage air-to-air engagements, coordinate close air support for ground forces, direct air defense assets, manage airborne refueling tracks, and oversee search and rescue operations. This concentration of capability proves particularly valuable for large-scale coalition operations where rapid decision-making and complex coordination across multiple mission types occurs simultaneously.

The GlobalEye's 5-6 operator stations require a different operational model. Routine surveillance and immediate tactical responses can be handled onboard, but complex battle management typically involves ground-based command centers. High-bandwidth data links stream radar tracks, sensor imagery, and other information to these facilities where larger teams can analyze situations and coordinate responses. This distributed model offers advantages in redundancy and scalability (ground facilities can support multiple aircraft and be hardened against attack), but requires robust communication infrastructure and may introduce latency in decision cycles.

For NATO operations, this difference has significant implications. The Alliance's command structure traditionally emphasizes airborne command posts for major operations, with senior commanders and battle staffs operating from aircraft like the E-3 to maintain mobility and survivability. Transitioning to a ground-centric model would require substantial changes to NATO doctrine, command facilities, and operational procedures. However, modern communication technologies and the vulnerability of large aircraft in contested environments may make such changes strategically necessary regardless of platform choice.

Strategic Assessment: Implications for NATO and European Defense

The European Strategic Autonomy Dimension

Beyond technical considerations, NATO's AWACS replacement decision carries profound implications for European strategic autonomy and transatlantic defense relationships. The E-7 cancellationinitiated by American withdrawalunderscores European vulnerability to U.S. strategic decisions that may not align with European security priorities. If the United States determines that manned AWACS platforms are too vulnerable for future warfare and pivots to space-based surveillance, European nations must decide whether to follow American strategic logic or pursue independent paths based on different threat assessments and operational requirements.

The GlobalEye represents the only viable near-term AWACS solution produced by a European manufacturer. Choosing this platform would strengthen European defense industrial capacity, maintain critical aerospace engineering expertise within Europe, and reduce dependence on American defense exports for strategic capabilities. France's early commitment to GlobalEye reflects longstanding French emphasis on strategic autonomy and willingness to invest in European defense alternatives even when American options might offer superior technical performance.

However, strategic autonomy comes with costs. The E-7 benefits from extensive American operational experience, integration with U.S. communications and data systems, and the logistics advantages of a widely-operated commercial airframe. European militaries have decades of experience working with American AWACS technology and doctrine. Transitioning to a new platform from a different manufacturer with different operational concepts requires substantial investment in training, doctrine development, and systems integration.

Moreover, the relatively small European market for AWACS platforms raises questions about long-term sustainment. If NATO members collectively acquire perhaps 15-20 GlobalEye aircraft to replace their E-3A fleet and meet individual national requirements, will this provide sufficient production volume to support an economically viable industrial base? The E-7 benefits from a much larger potential market including ongoing U.S. military interest (despite the current cancellation), allied nations in the Indo-Pacific region, and potential future customers. A small European fleet might face higher per-unit costs and reduced economies of scale for upgrades and sustainment.

Operational Suitability for NATO Requirements

Assessing which platform better meets NATO's operational requirements depends on assumptions about future conflict scenarios. In a major conventional war against Russian forcesthe scenario that has dominated NATO planning since 2014both platforms face serious survivability challenges. Modern Russian integrated air defense systems, including the S-400 and upcoming S-500, can engage aircraft at ranges exceeding 400 km (250 mi). Neither the E-7 nor GlobalEye could safely operate within effective sensor range of heavily defended Russian territory during high-intensity conflict.

This reality suggests that future AWACS operations will increasingly occur in a "sensor support" role, operating well behind friendly lines and relying on forward-deployed ground radars, fighter aircraft sensors, and unmanned platforms to provide coverage of contested areas. In this operational model, the E-7's extended endurance through in-flight refueling and large operator capacity for managing complex operations offer advantages. However, if AWACS platforms must operate 300-400 km behind front lines to avoid Russian air defenses, sensor range limitations may reduce the significance of platform-specific radar performance differences.

For lower-intensity operationspeacetime surveillance of Alliance airspace, maritime patrol, counter-terrorism, and stability operationsthe operational differences between platforms become less critical. Both can perform routine surveillance missions effectively, though the GlobalEye's multi-domain sensor suite offers advantages for missions requiring simultaneous air and maritime surveillance, such as monitoring the Baltic Sea or Eastern Mediterranean.

Arctic operations present a specific operational challenge where platform characteristics matter significantly. The Arctic's vast distances, harsh weather, and increasing strategic importance as Russian military activity expands require capable surveillance platforms. The E-7's in-flight refueling capability provides obvious advantages for extended missions over enormous areas. However, the GlobalEye's maritime surveillance radar proves valuable for monitoring both Russian Northern Fleet activity and ground forces in the High North, where distinguishing between civilian and military activity often requires multi-domain sensor fusion.

Cost and Procurement Timeline Considerations

With mandatory E-3 retirement approaching in 2035, NATO faces severe time pressure for any replacement program. The GlobalEye offers significant advantages in procurement timeline and development risk. The platform is currently in operational service with multiple customers, Saab has demonstrated production capability, and integration with NATO communications systems has been validated through Sweden's status as a NATO member and Saab's extensive work with Alliance nations.

Pursuing the E-7 despite American cancellation would face substantial obstacles. Without U.S. participation, European nations would need to negotiate directly with Boeing for aircraft production, work with Northrop Grumman for MESA radar integration, and assume all development risk and integration costs for NATO-specific requirements. Boeing's focus on its commercial 737 MAX program and the uncertain future of military 737 production create additional risk that the industrial base might not support a small European order. Lead times for E-7 production and delivery could easily extend to 2030-2032, leaving minimal margin before the E-3 retirement deadline.

Operating cost differentials favor the GlobalEye significantly. At approximately $15,000 per flight hour compared to $20,000 for the E-7, a fleet of 15 GlobalEye aircraft operating 300 hours annually per aircraft would save approximately $22.5 million per year in operating costs. Over a 20-year service life, this represents nearly $450 million in savingssubstantial for budget-constrained European defense ministries. Lower acquisition costs per unit (estimated $1.5-2.0 billion versus $2.0-2.5 billion for the E-7) provide additional financial advantages, potentially allowing acquisition of more aircraft for the same budget.

Current Operators and International Interest

GlobalEye Operations and Experience

The United Arab Emirates pioneered GlobalEye operations, having ordered five aircraft in 2015 with deliveries beginning in 2020. UAE operational experience has been generally positive, with the platforms providing effective air and maritime surveillance across the Persian Gulf region. Swedish Air Force operations began more recently as Sweden acquired two aircraft for homeland defense and Baltic Sea surveillance, with operations beginning in 2022-2023. France's commitment to GlobalEye, announced in 2025, represents the most significant European adoption and validates the platform's suitability for NATO-standard operations.

Operational experience has revealed both capabilities and limitations. The GlobalEye's multi-domain sensors have proven effective for complex surveillance scenarios involving simultaneous air and maritime threats. However, the platform's requirement to maneuver for 360-degree coverage and its limited onboard battle management capacity have required adjustment to operational procedures developed for traditional AWACS platforms. UAE and Swedish operators have adapted by emphasizing ground-based command centers and treating GlobalEye aircraft as sensor platforms feeding broader surveillance networks rather than as self-contained command posts.

E-7 Wedgetail Global Fleet

Despite the recent U.S. and NATO cancellations, the E-7 Wedgetail maintains an international user base. The Royal Australian Air Force operates six aircraft that have demonstrated excellent performance in regional surveillance and coalition operations. South Korea operates four E-7s for air defense and maritime surveillance, while Turkey has ordered four aircraft with deliveries ongoing. The United Kingdom's commitment to three aircraft remains firm despite NATO's program cancellation, with the RAF expecting initial operational capability in 2026-2027.

Australian operational experience spanning nearly 15 years provides extensive validation of the E-7's capabilities. RAAF Wedgetails have participated in operations over Iraq and Syria, provided surveillance for major exercises in the Pacific, and demonstrated the platform's effectiveness for both air defense and battle management roles. However, Australian operations have occurred primarily in permissive environments where platform survivability against sophisticated air defenses was not a primary concern. Whether E-7 capabilities justify survivability risks in contested operations against near-peer adversaries remains an open question that the Pentagon answered negatively in its cancellation decision.

Conclusion: The Path Forward

NATO's AWACS replacement program has reached a critical juncture following the twin cancellations of the E-7 Wedgetail acquisition. The Alliance faces a strategic decision that extends beyond technical platform comparisons to encompass fundamental questions about European defense autonomy, transatlantic burden-sharing, and operational concepts for surveillance and command in contested future environments.

The Saab GlobalEye appears increasingly likely to become NATO's chosen platform, representing the only viable near-term solution produced by a European manufacturer. France's commitment provides a foundation for potential multinational procurement, while German and Danish interest suggests broader European adoption. The platform's lower costs, proven operational status, multi-domain sensor capabilities, and enhanced survivability characteristics address many of NATO's requirements, though questions remain about onboard battle management capacity and the absence of in-flight refueling.

However, adopting the GlobalEye requires NATO to fundamentally rethink AWACS doctrine and operations. The Alliance must transition from airborne command posts with extensive onboard battle management to distributed architectures emphasizing ground-based command centers fed by airborne sensors. This transition presents both challenges and opportunitieschallenges in doctrine development and infrastructure investment, but opportunities to create more survivable and resilient command-and-control architectures less vulnerable to single-point failures.

The 2035 deadline approaches rapidly. NATO has approximately one decade to select a platform, negotiate procurement contracts, establish production schedules, develop operational doctrine, train crews, integrate with Alliance communications systems, and achieve full operational capability. This timeline permits little margin for error or extended development programs. The collapse of the E-7 program, while representing a setback for transatlantic defense cooperation, may ultimately accelerate decision-making and force overdue modernization of NATO's surveillance and command architecture.

Regardless of platform selection, the AWACS replacement program highlights broader trends in European defense. American strategic priorities increasingly diverge from European security requirements as the United States focuses on Indo-Pacific challenges and peer competition with China. European nations face growing pressure to develop autonomous capabilities in critical defense areas, accepting the costs and inefficiencies of smaller-scale production in exchange for strategic independence. The GlobalEye program may prove a bellwether for European defense industrial policy, demonstrating whether the continent can sustain high-technology military capabilities without American participation.

Key Dates and Milestones 1982: NATO E-3A AWACS fleet enters operational service at Geilenkirchen Air Base

NATO E-3A AWACS fleet enters operational service at Geilenkirchen Air Base 2016: NATO launches Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) program at Warsaw Summit

NATO launches Alliance Future Surveillance and Control (AFSC) program at Warsaw Summit Feb 2017: North Atlantic Council initiates AFSC Concept Stage with NSPA as lead agency

North Atlantic Council initiates AFSC Concept Stage with NSPA as lead agency Mar 2020: Six industry consortia submit initial AFSC concept studies

Six industry consortia submit initial AFSC concept studies 2021: NATO launches second round of detailed feasibility studies

NATO launches second round of detailed feasibility studies Nov 2023: NATO selects E-7 Wedgetail as primary AWACS replacement

NATO selects E-7 Wedgetail as primary AWACS replacement Jun 2025: Pentagon cancels U.S. Air Force E-7 program

Pentagon cancels U.S. Air Force E-7 program Jul 2025: United States withdraws from NATO E-7 acquisition consortium

United States withdraws from NATO E-7 acquisition consortium Nov 2025: European NATO partners cancel E-7 procurement

European NATO partners cancel E-7 procurement 2025: France commits to Saab GlobalEye acquisition

France commits to Saab GlobalEye acquisition ~2035: Mandatory retirement of NATO E-3A fleet after 50+ years of service

GlobalEye Primary Advantages Lower acquisition costs ($1.5-2.0 billion vs. $2.0-2.5 billion per unit)

Reduced operating costs (~$15,000 vs. ~$20,000 per flight hour)

Enhanced survivability through smaller radar cross-section and infrared signature

Multi-domain sensor suite with dedicated maritime surveillance radar

Higher service ceiling (15,500 m vs. 12,500 m) improving both sensor range and threat evasion

Faster cruise speed (900 km/h vs. 850 km/h) enabling rapid repositioning

European production supporting strategic autonomy objectives

Proven operational status with multiple current operators

Shorter procurement timeline reducing schedule risk

GlobalEye Primary Limitations Limited onboard battle management capacity (5-6 vs. 10-19 operator stations)

No in-flight refueling capability on current production models

Non-360 degree radar coverage requiring orbital flight patterns for continuous area surveillance

Smaller radar aperture potentially limiting maximum detection range vs. larger MESA system

Less extensive operational history and proven track record compared to legacy platforms

Requires significant NATO doctrine changes for distributed command-and-control architecture

Smaller fleet size may limit economies of scale for sustainment and upgrades

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Project 22220 / LK-60 / Arktika

Russia is the worlds only country possessing a nuclear icebreaker fleet which consists of 34 diesel and eight nuclear-powered icebreakers. Russian President Vladimir Putin led the keel-laying ceremony for the new Project 22220 nuclear icebreaker Stalingrad, stressing that Russia remains the only country in the world able to mass-produce such vessels.

"This is another tribute to the memory and unbending courage of the defenders and residents of this stronghold on the Volga River, to the valour and bravery of the participants of the great battle that largely determined the outcome of not only the Great Patriotic War, but the entire Second World War and, without exaggeration, influenced the fate of humanity.

"Today is a special day for laying the keel of a new powerful icebreaker. These days marked the turning point in the fierce fight for Stalingrad. The Soviet army launched an offensive operation, which culminated in the encirclement and complete defeat of the enemys forces. From the banks of the Volga, our troops moved steadily on towards Victory.

"I am confident that the new icebreaker Stalingrad will honourably bear this proud name. Working in the harsh Arctic conditions, making its way through the ice, it will become yet another symbol of the talent, strength, and creative energy of our people, of their ability to set ambitious goals and bring the boldest plans to life, and to withstand even the most difficult times."

The Stalingrad becomes the sixth vessel in the Project 22220 series, the largest and most powerful icebreakers on the planet. The ship is over 173 meters long, can smash through sea ice up to three meters thick and is able to operate for up to seven years without refueling. Nuclear propulsion also makes the vessels almost entirely carbon-neutral. Thanks to their variable-draft design, Project 22220 icebreakers can provide year-round navigation in the western Arctic and even in the shallow waters of the Yenisei River and Ob Bay along the Northern Sea Route.

The President took part, via videoconference, in a keel-laying ceremony for the sixth serial multipurpose nuclear-powered icebreaker Stalingrad. The ceremony was held at the Baltic Shipyard in St Petersburg. The ceremony was attended by Director General of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexei Likhachev, CEO of the United Shipbuilding Corporation Andrei Puchkov, Volgograd Region Governor Andrei Bocharov, Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District Igor Rudenya, and Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov.

During the ceremony, Great Patriotic War veteran and participant in the Battle of Stalingrad Pavel Vinokurov handed over to Rosatom Director General Alexei Likhachev a capsule with soil from Mamayev Kurgan, the site of the most intense and bloody fights and the citys key defensive position during the Battle of Stalingrad. The capsule will be kept aboard the icebreaker Stalingrad.

The icebreaker Stalingrad will be the sixth serial vessel built under Project 22220. The first four, including the lead icebreaker Arktika and the three serial ships Sibir, Ural, and Yakutia, are already on duty in Arctic waters. The construction of two other vessels from this series  Chukotka and Leningrad  is underway. The Project 22220 icebreakers are equipped with state-of-the-art next-generation RITM-200 reactors. The icebreakers are 173.3 metres long, 34 metres wide, and 15.2 metres tall, boasting a capacity of 60 MW. They can travel at a speed of 22 knots in clear water and break through ice blocks up to three metres thick.

The LK-60 icebreaker, the first icebreaker of the new generation, was built at Baltiysky Zavod. The ship was designed by Central Design Bureau Iceberg in 2009. The lead 60 MW icebreaker of Project 22220 ordered by Atomflot was laid down in November 2013. The icebreakers advanced dual-draft capability makes it suitable for operations both in the Arctic waters and in the mouths of the northern rivers. The icebreaker will be operating in the western region of the Arctic: the Barents, Pechora and Kara Seas and in shallow waters of the mouth of the Yenisei and the Ob Bay.

The main advantage of the new design is that it can by changing the draft through ballast tanks, sail on the high seas and low. With a normal 8.5 meters draft, the icebreaker LK-60 will be able to enter the Dudinka port (in the Krasnoyarsk region), in the Gulf of Ob and other drought areas. Increasing the draft in two or three meters at the expense of ballast, the LK-60 may act on the high seas, using the mass and inertia force to break thick ice up to three meters.

The icebreaker - the first of the LK-60 model to be built - will be 173 meters long and 34 meters wide, some 14 meters longer and 4 meters wider than the current biggest icebreaker, the 50 Years of Victory. The displacement of the new vessel will be about 33,540 tonnes. It will have a draft of between 8.5 and 10.5 meters. These dimensions are all a bit larger than the preliminary design of 2006. The LK-60 - which will have a crew of 75 - will be capable of breaking through ice up to 2.8 meters thick at a speed of between 1.5 and 2 knots.

The LK-60 will be based around two RITM-200 pressurized water reactors to power a three shaft propulsion arrangement. The reactor design was developed by OKBM Afrikantov and integrates some main components into the reactor vessel and produces 60 MWe for the motor-driven propeller. The same design was foreseen as being incorporated in floating power plants. The reactor would operate on fuel enriched to less than 20% uranium-235 and require refuelling every seven years over a 40-year lifespan.

Rosatomflot refers to the LK-60 as being 'universal' as it can be used both in the open sea and on rivers. The new icebreaker was planned to be used in the western Arctic region, including in the Barents, Pechora and Kara seas, as well as in the shallower waters of the Yenisei River and Ob Bay. During the summer and autumn months it will operate in the eastern Arctic region.

Several icebreaker projects were under way in Russia. One was a study of a Yamal-2 to replace Arktika. Russian research and design institutions - in co-operation with experts from Finland and Germany - have already carried-out a feasibility study for the development of a new generation of icebreakers. The basic designs for such new classes of ice-breakers have apparently been ready since around 1995. According to the St.Petersburg-based Central Marine Research and Design Institute (CNIIMF), the following types of new generation icebreakers should be examined:

A lead icebreaker with the power of 100 MW to ensure year-round navigation on the NSR, including escorting large capacity cargo vessels along high-latitude routes (north of all the archipelagos). Such an ice-breaker would also be used as a rescue ship. Such icebreakers will have almost double the strength of today's largest ice-breakers, the 56 MW Arktika-class ice-breakers. This "super icebreaker" intended to ensure all-year navigation between Europe and Japan along the Russian Arctic coast.

A universal ice-breaker with two draft modes of operation with 60 MW power, for support of navigation in the western area of the Arctic Region. Such an ice-breaker would be able to operate both in the sea, in the shallow shelf areas, and in river estuaries. The 60 MW nuclear ice-breaker was an especially interesting concept. With its wide 32.2 m beam and shallow 8.5 m minimum draft, it would be very versatile and able to replace both Arktika and shallow-draft Taymyr class ice-breakers and accommodate considerably larger cargo vessels.

In addition, construction of a new line of 25 MW diesel-electrical icebreakers was being considered, as well as new port icebreakers.

The Russian Special Design Bureau for Mechanical Engineering (OKBM) was developing a new icebreaker reactor - RITM-200 - to replace the KLT reactors and to serve in floating nuclear power plants. This was an integral 210 MWt, 55 MWe PWR with inherent safety features. A single compact RITM-200 could replace twin KLT-40S (but yielding less total power). A major challenge was the reliability of steam generators and associated equipment which was much less accessible when inside the reactor pressure vessel.

It was supposed that icebreakers of the LK-60 type will be used for this purpose in the future. These icebreakers may operate both in coastal shelf areas and in the deep ocean. Engineers also plan to start developing icebreakers with new nuclear installations that will be able to guide convoys from Europe to America through the North Pole.





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Russo-Ukraine War - 18 November 2025 - Day 1364

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that in total, 150 combat clashes have taken place since the beginning of this day. Ukrainian defenders are decisively intercepting the attempts of the Russian enemy to advance deep into Ukrainian territory, giving him a fiery impression.

Today Russian troops made one rocket and 33 aviation strikes, used one rocket and dropped 62 controlled air bombs. In addition, 2440 kamikaze drones were involved in strikes and carried out 2999 shelling positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the North Slobozhansky and Kursky directions, Ukrainian soldiers repelled two Russian assault actions since the beginning of the day. In addition, the Russian enemy launched one air strike, dropping four controlled airstrike bombs, and carrying out 145 shells to the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements, one of which was from a jet-fire system.

In the South Slobozhansky direction, the Russian enemy six times stormed the positions of Ukrainian units near Vovchansk, Kamyanka and towards the Kolodyazne settlement. One fight is still going on.

In the Kupyansk direction, the Russian aggressor carried out offensive actions four times in the areas of the settlements Petropavlivka, Pishnete and Kupyansk.

In the Lyman direction, Russian invaders attacked the positions of the Defense Forces seven times in the direction of the settlements of Korovyn Yar, Stavka, Drobisheve, Lyman and in the direction of Oleksandrivka. The three clashes are still ongoing.

Seven Russian assaults were repelled by Ukrainian defenders in the Slovak direction - the Russian occupiers tried to advance in the areas of Serebryanka, Yampol and in the directions of Siversk and Zvanivka.

In the Kramatorsky direction, the Russian opponent twice tried to break through the defense of Ukrainian defenders in the direction of Bondarny and in the direction of Virolyubivka, received a cut off.

In the Konstantinivka direction, 19 times Russians went into offensive on the positions of Ukrainian units in the areas of Scherbinivka, Rusynoy Yar and towards Konstantynivka, Stepanivka and Sofiyivka. One fight is still going on.

In the Pokrovsky direction since the beginning of the day, the Russian occupiers 47 times tried to advance on the position of Ukrainian units. The enemy attacked in the areas of settlements Shahove, New Shahove, Chervony Lyman, Mirnograd, Pokrovsk, Zvirove, Novoekonomicne, Novopavlivka, Rivne, Kotline, Udacne, Molodec ke, Philia, Dachne. In four locations, the fights have not subsided so far.

According to preliminary data, today in this direction there were 68 Russian occupiers, 45 of them - irrevocably. Also Ukrainian soldiers damaged 15 unmanned aircraft, two motorcycles; 12 coverings for the enemy's personnel and two motorcycles were affected.

In the direction of Oleksandrivsky, Russian forces 18 times tried to break through the defense of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of the settlements of Green Gai, Sosnivka, Verbove, Oleksiyivka, Privilne, Rivnopillya, Rybne, Pavlivka, Krasnogirske. Air strikes were suffered by Kolomijci and Pokrovsk.

In the gulyajpil s komu direction, the Russian enemy 17 times attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the areas of Dobropilla, Green Grove, Comfort, Merry. The two clashes are still ongoing.

In the Orihiv direction, the Russian opponent once attacked the positions of Ukrainian defenders in the area of Primorsky. Under the air strike of nekorovanih aviation missiles were the zaliznih and novoandrijvka.

In the Pridniprovsk direction, the Russian enemy twice in vain tried to approach the positions of Ukrainian defenders. Pridniprovskje suffered a Russian air strike.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation continue the special military operation.

The Sever Group of Forces inflicted fire damage on formations of three mechanised brigades, an infantry brigade, an air assault brigade, and an assault regiment of the Armed Forces of Ukraine near Alekseyevka, Yunakovka, Mogritsa, Ivolzhanskoye, and Novaya Setch (Sumy region).

Tsegelnoye in Kharkov region is liberated.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 115 troops, an armoured fighting vehicle, 12 motor vehicles, two electronic warfare stations, and seven materiel depots.

The Zapad Group of Forces improved the situation along the front line. Five mechanised brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two territorial defence brigades, and a national guard brigade have been hit near Monachinovka, Velikaya Shapkovka, Nechvolodovka, Staroverovka (Kharkov region), and Drobyshevo (Donetsk People's Republic).

Assault detachments of the 6th Army continue to destroy the encircled enemy group close to Kupyansk (Kharkov region).

An attempt of the 125th Mechanised Brigade of the AFU to conduct a counter-attack from Blagodatovka (Kharkov region) to unblock enemy units have been thwarted. The enemy has lost up to ten militants.

In addition, up to 50 troops, three pickup trucks, a UK-made L-119 howitzer, and five electronic warfare stations have been neutralised.

In total, more than 220 troops, a tank, two armoured fighting vehicles including a U.S.-made HMMWV armoured vehicle, 18 motor vehicles, and an artillery gun were neutralised. Ten electronic warfare station and five ammunition depots were neutralised.

The Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and positions. Russian troops engaged four mechanised brigades, a mountain assault brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and a territorial defence brigade near Seversk, Slavyansk, Stepanovka, Konstantinovka, and Vasyukovka (Donetsk People's Republic).

The enemy lost more than 70 troops, five armoured fighting vehicles including two Western-made vehicles, 16 motor vehicles, and two artillery guns. An electronic warfare station, five ammunition, fuel, and materiel depots were neutralised.

The Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation. Russian forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of six mechanised brigade, an infantry brigade, a jaeger brigade, an assault brigade, two air assault brigades, two assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, two marine brigades, a territorial defence brigade, and three national guard brigades close to Belitskoye in the Donetsk People's Republic, Novoaleksandrovka, and Mezhevaya in Dnepropetrovsk region.

In Krasnoarmeysk (Donetsk People's Republic), assault groups of the 2nd Army continue to neutralise surrounded AFU units in the Tsentralny district and in western parts of Gornyak district, as well as in the western industrial area.

Six attacks of the 32nd Mechanised Brigade and the 425th Skala Assault Regiment of the AFU were repelled from the area of Grishino (Donetsk People's Republic) in order to unblock an encircled group of the AFU. Up to 30 militants have been neutralised.

In Dimitrov (Donetsk People's Republic), units of the 51st Army continue offensive operations in Vostochny, Zapadny district and the southern part of the town.

Over the past 24 hours in Krasnoarmeysk direction, up to 275 troops, a tank, a French-made 155-mm Caesar self-propelled artillery system, and four pickup trucks have been neutralised.

In total, more than 455 troops, a tank, eight motor vehicles, and an artillery gun were neutralised.

The Vostok Group of Forces advanced to the depth of the enemy's defence and liberated Nechayevka (Dnepropetrovsk region).

Troops of two mechanised brigades, two assault brigades, three assault regiments of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and two territorial defence brigades have been hit near Gulyaypole, Vozdvizhevka (Zaporozhye region), Kolomiytsy, and Gerasimovka (Dnepropetrovsk region).

The AFU losses amounted to over 350 troops, an armoured fighting vehicle, and seven motor vehicles.

The Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of a mechanised brigade, a coastal defence brigade of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, and a territorial defence brigade near Orekhov, Primorskoye (Zaporozhye region), Berislav, and Kazatskoye (Kherson region).

Up to 80 troops, four armoured fighting vehicles including a U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, 18 motor vehicles, seven electronic warfare stations, three ammunition depots, and two materiel depots were neutralised.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, attack unmanned aerial vehicles, Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces have inflicted damage on the Ukrainian energy and railway infrastructure used in the interests of the Ukrainian Armed Forces, a military train with armoured vehicles, temporary deployment areas of Ukrainian Armed Forces and foreign mercenaries in 153 areas.

Air defence systems destroyed three guided aerial bombs and 206 fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, since the beginning of the special military operation, 668 aircraft, 283 helicopters, 97,303 unmanned aerial vehicles, 636 anti-aircraft missile systems, 26,086 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,613 MLRS combat vehicles, 31,381 field artillery guns and mortars, and 46,993 units of support military vehicles have been neutralised.

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Secretary-General, Addressing Security Council, Warns of 'Disastrous Domino Effect' as Terror Threat Intensifies across Sahel, Calls for Coordination

Press Release

Secretary-General / Statements and Messages

SG/SM/22914

18 November 2025

Following are UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres' remarks, as prepared for delivery, to the Security Council meeting on the theme, "Enhancing Regional Counter-Terrorism Cooperation in West African and the Sahel", in New York today:

I thank the presidency of the Council for the month, Sierra Leone, for convening this important meeting. And I thank His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership and tireless commitment to regional peace and stability.

We meet at a moment of profound urgency. The security situation in West Africa and the Sahel is growing more critical by the day. The recent developments in Mali are a clear reminder of what is at stake. Since September, the JNIM, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, has disrupted fuel supplies along key corridors into Bamako.

In the last month, terrorists have continued to attack military-escorted convoys, killing and kidnapping both soldiers and civilians. This is causing enormous hardships for the population, as fuel  and the goods, markets and basic services that rely on it  are in short supply. And in some cases, vital humanitarian operations, including life-saving UN operations, have been forced to reduce services due to fuel shortages. If the situation continues, the consequences could be deadly for people who depend on these life-saving programmes.

Despite these challenges, hundreds of trucks have finally been able to enter Bamako last week, and more fuel stations are seeing some supplies in recent days. But, the situation remains stark for Mali, but also for Burkina Faso, and to a lesser extent, Niger.

Established groups expand their reach. Several coastal States are under threat. We face the risk of a disastrous domino effect across the entire region. Many countries are reeling. Terrorism in the Sahel is not only a regional dramatic reality. Progressive links of its groups in Africa and beyond make it a growing global threat.

The Sahel countries were already near the bottom of the human development index, suffering from high levels of poverty, weak institutions and the disastrous effects of climate change. Against this fragile backdrop, armed groups and terrorist networks continue to exert pressure on Government forces: from JNIM to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara, which continue to grow and expand their reach; to Islamic State West Africa Province, Boko Haram and Lakurawa, which remain active across the Lake Chad Basin, particularly in parts of Nigeria and Niger.

According to the Global Terrorism Index, 5 of the 10 countries most affected by terrorism are in the Sahel. The Sahel accounts for 19 per cent of global terrorist attacks  and over half of global terrorism-related casualties. This violence and instability are unleashing massive suffering.

According to the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR), about 4 million people are now displaced across Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and neighbouring countries. And 14,800 schools have closed across the Sahel, along with over 900 health facilities, leaving millions without critical care. I see three areas of urgent action.

First, this regional crisis demands a regional response, one that is unified, coherent and consensus-based. With countries leaving the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), now is the time for dialogue and collaboration among all countries to strengthen the security and political cooperation architecture in the region.

This means bridging the communication, coordination and trust gaps between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States, with the support of the African Union and the United Nations. It means restructuring the Accra Initiative and strengthening the Multinational Joint Task Force, which remains the only functioning platform for cooperation on regional security in Lake Chad.

It means confidence-building with regional neighbours like Mauritania and Algeria to address the security threat in a coordinated way. It means this Council supporting all efforts to rebuild trust and strengthen international and regional security cooperation, including among ECOWAS, the Alliance of Sahel States and other key countries.

And it means collaborating through the Global Counter-Terrorism Compact and the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Strategy to share intelligence, strengthen financial tracking and disrupt the financing and criminality that fund terrorism.

I'm aware of the serious political differences that exist in the region. But, it is absolutely essential that, despite these differences, we build a platform of cooperation among intelligence and security services of the countries of ECOWAS, the Alliance of Sahel States, Mauritania, Chad and Algeria to allow for coordinated action against terrorism.

We must also confront a stark fact: The lack of dedicated financial resources to coordinate an appropriate regional response. I recall with deep regret the lack of consensus as far back as 2017 on providing predictable and sustainable financing for the G5 Sahel [Group of Five for the Sahel] initiative, namely through UN assessed contributions. In hindsight, this has proven to be a strategic error with clear and dramatic consequences not only for the Sahel, but for the region and international peace and security. We cannot afford to make the same mistakes again.

Second, humanitarian needs must be met. I call on Member States to maintain strong financial support for humanitarian response plans in the region. The six humanitarian appeals in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin for 2025, which require a combined $4.9 billion, remain severely underfunded. So far, less than one quarter of this has been raised, and only about half of what was available at this time last year.

The Humanitarian Response Plan for Mali, in particular, is only 16 per cent fulfilled  among the lowest coverage rates worldwide. The world needs to stand in full solidarity with the people of this region, who are enduring a desperate level of hardship and suffering. Predictable, timely and flexible funding is vital to sustain hope and enable rapid recovery for the region and the people who call it home.

And third, we need a coherent development strategy to address the conditions that lead to terrorism taking hold in the first place. Terrorists thrive where the social contract is broken. When families are trapped into poverty and young people have no access to education or work, extremism gains ground. When governance fails, where development stalls, where public services break down, where human rights are violated, where communities are marginalized, where citizens no longer have faith in their institutions, terrorists are finding ways to exploit people's grievances.

Repairing these fractures, investing in broad-based development and transforming despair into opportunity is our strongest defence against radicalization. This requires effective solidarity from the international community to help countries fight hunger and poverty, invest in sustainable and inclusive health and education systems and adaptation to climate change, and strengthen social protection and essential services.

It requires strengthening economic opportunity and resilience and working with the private sector to create jobs and build sustainable livelihoods, so people can look to the future with hope, not fear. It requires expanding civic space for people to make their voices heard, and accountable institutions and governance structures anchored in equality and inclusion. And it means building effective justice systems grounded in the rule of law and upholding human rights.

As we work to respond to the crisis in the Sahel, the United Nations is committed to working with the countries of the region through my Special Representative for West Africa and the Sahel, Leonardo Santos Simao, and the Global Counter-Terrorism Coordination Compact led by the Office of Counter-Terrorism.

With coordinated efforts, political will and the support of Member States and this Council, we can deliver the security, stability and opportunity that the people of West Africa and the Sahel need and deserve. Thank you.

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Secretary-General's remarks to the Security Council - on Enhancing Regional Counter-Terrorism Cooperation in West Africa and the Sahel

United Nations Secretary-General

18 November 2025

Belem, Brazil

Statements | Antonio Guterres, Secretary-General

Mr. President, Distinguished Members of the Security Council,

I thank the Presidency of the Council for the month, Sierra Leone, for convening this important meeting.

And I thank His Excellency President Julius Maada Bio for his leadership and tireless commitment to regional peace and stability.

Mr. President,

We meet at a moment of profound urgency.

The security situation in West Africa and the Sahel is growing more critical by the day.

The recent developments in Mali are a clear reminder of what is at stake.

Since September, the JNIM, Jama'at Nusrat al-Islam wal-Muslimin, has disrupted fuel supplies along key corridors into Bamako.

In the last month, terrorists have continued to attack military-escorted convoys, killing and kidnapping both soldiers and civilians.

This is causing enormous hardships for the population, as fuel  and the goods, markets and basic services that rely on it  are in short supply.

And in some cases, vital humanitarian operations  including lifesaving UN operations  have been forced to reduce services due to fuel shortages.

If the situation continues, the consequences could be deadly for people who depend on these life-saving programmes.

Despite these challenges, hundreds of trucks have finally been able to enter Bamako last week, and more fuel stations are seeing some supplies in recent days.

But the situation remains stark  for Mali, but also for Burkina Faso and to a lesser extent Niger.

Established groups expand their reach.

Several coastal states are under threat.

We face the risk of a disastrous domino effect across the entire region.

Many countries are reeling.

Terrorism in the Sahel is not only a regional dramatic reality.

Progressive links of its groups in Africa and beyond make it a growing global threat.

The Sahel countries were already near the bottom of the human development index, suffering from high levels of poverty, weak institutions, and the disastrous effects of climate change.

Against this fragile backdrop, armed groups and terrorist networks continue to exert pressure on Government forces.

From JNIM to the Islamic State in the Greater Sahara (ISGS), which continue to grow and expand their reach.

To Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP), Boko Haram and Lakurawa, which remain active across the Lake Chad Basin, particularly in parts of Nigeria and Niger.

According to the Global Terrorism Index, five of the ten countries most affected by terrorism are in the Sahel.

The Sahel accounts for 19 per cent of global terrorist attacks  and over half of global terrorism-related casualties.

This violence and instability are unleashing massive suffering.

According to UNHCR, about four million people are now displaced across Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger and neighbouring countries.

And 14,800 schools have closed across the Sahel, along with over 900 health facilities, leaving millions without critical care.

Mr. President,

I see three areas of urgent action.

First  This regional crisis demands a regional response, one that is unified, coherent and consensus-based.

With countries leaving ECOWAS, now is the time for dialogue and collaboration among all countries to strengthen the security and political co-operation architecture in the region.

This means bridging the communication, co-ordination and trust gaps between ECOWAS and the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), with the support of the African Union and the United Nations.

It means restructuring the Accra Initiative and strengthening the Multinational Joint Task Force, which remains the only functioning platform for cooperation on regional security in Lake Chad.

It means confidence-building with regional neighbours like Mauritania and Algeria to address the security threat in a co-ordinated way.

It means this Council supporting all efforts to rebuild trust and strengthen international and regional security cooperation, including among ECOWAS, the AES and other key countries.

And it means collaborating through the Global Counter-Terrorism Compact and the ECOWAS Counter-Terrorism Strategy to share intelligence, strengthen financial tracking, and disrupt the financing and criminality that fund terrorism.

I'm aware of the serious political differences that exist in the region.

But it is absolutely essential that, despite these differences, we build a platform of cooperation among intelligence and security services of the countries of ECOWAS, the AES, Mauritania, Chad and Algeria to allow for coordinated action against terrorism.

We must also confront a stark fact: the lack of dedicated financial resources to coordinate an appropriate regional response.

I recall with deep regret the lack of consensus as far back as 2017 on providing predictable and sustainable financing for the G5-Sahel initiative, namely through UN assessed contributions.

In hindsight, this has proven to be a strategic error with clear and dramatic consequences not only for the Sahel but for the region and international peace and security.

We cannot afford to make the same mistakes again.

Mr. President,

Second  humanitarian needs must be met.

I call on Member States to maintain strong financial support for humanitarian response plans in the region.

The six humanitarian appeals in the Sahel and Lake Chad Basin for 2025  which require a combined $4.9 billion  remain severely underfunded.

So far, less than one quarter of this has been raised  and only about half of what was available at this time last year.

The humanitarian response plan for Mali, in particular, is only 16 per cent fulfilled  among the lowest coverage rates worldwide.

The world needs to stand in full solidarity with the people of this region, who are enduring a desperate level of hardship and suffering.

Predictable, timely and flexible funding is vital to sustain hope and enable rapid recovery for the region and the people who call it home.

Excellencies,

Troisiemement, nous avons besoin d'une strategie de developpement coherente qui s'attaque aux facteurs a l'origine de l'implantation du terrorisme.

Les terroristes prosperent la ou le contrat social est rompu.

Quand les familles s'enfoncent dans la pauvrete, et que les jeunes n'ont ni ecole ni emploi, l'extremisme gagne du terrain.

Lorsque la gouvernance se degrade, que le developpement est a l'arret, que les services publics se deteriorent, que les droits humains sont bafoues, que des communautes sont marginalisees, que les citoyens n'ont plus foi en leurs institutions - les terroristes exploitent ces ressentiments.

Reparer ces fractures, investir dans un developpement large et equitable, et transformer le desespoir en perspectives positives : voila notre meilleur rempart contre la radicalisation.

Cela implique une solidarite effective de la communaute internationale afin d'aider les pays a combattre la faim et la pauvrete, investir dans des systemes de sante et d'education durables et inclusifs et dans l'adaptation face au changement climatique, et renforcer la protection sociale et les services essentiels.

Cela demande de renforcer les opportunites economiques et la resilience, et de travailler avec le secteur prive pour creer des emplois et des moyens de subsistance durables - afin que chacun puisse envisager l'avenir avec espoir plutot que crainte.

Cela suppose d'etendre l'espace civique pour permettre a tous de faire entendre leur voix, et de batir des institutions responsables et des cadres de gouvernance fondes sur l'egalite et l'inclusion.

Cela signifie aussi mettre en place des systemes judiciaires efficaces, fondes sur l'Etat de droit, et defendre les droits humains.

Monsieur le President,

Alors que nous nous efforcons de repondre a la crise au Sahel, l'ONU reste determinee a travailler avec les pays de la region - par l'intermediaire de mon Representant special pour l'Afrique de l'Ouest et le Sahel, M. Leonardo Santos Simao, ainsi qu'a travers le Pacte mondial de coordination contre le terrorisme, pilote par le Bureau de la lutte contre le terrorisme.

Grace a des efforts coordonnes, a une volonte politique affirmee et au soutien des Etats Membres et de ce Conseil, nous pouvons offrir la securite, la stabilite et les perspectives dont les populations d'Afrique de l'Ouest et du Sahel ont besoin et qu'elles meritent tant.

Je vous remercie.

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'Space' Will Ensure Global Space for India as a Frontline Nation: Dr. Jitendra Singh

India PIB

Department of Space

Private Sector Surge Marks India's Rise as Preferred Global destination for Space sector engagement and investment: Dr. Jitendra Singh

IISC 2025 Theme Highlights India's Innovation-Driven Space Journey, Says Dr. Jitendra Singh

Space Tech Now Central to Governance, From Gati Shakti to Telemedicine, Says Minister

Posted On: 18 NOV 2025 6:11PM by PIB Delhi

"Space" will ensure global space for India as a frontline nation in the world, Union Minister of Science and Technology Dr. Jitendra Singh said today.

Pointing out India's expanding role in the global space order, the Minister said that India is fast emerging as a preferred global destination for Space sector engagement and investment. This is reflected in the growing interest from multiple international delegations visiting the country in recent months, he added.

Dr. Jitendra Singh said India's space sector is undergoing a decisive transformation that directly reflects the theme of this year's India International Space Conclave (IISC 2025)  "Expanding Horizons: Innovation, Inclusion & Resilience in the New Space Age." Addressing industry leaders, global agencies, diplomats and start-ups at the event organised by the Indian Space Association (ISpA), he said the government's reforms have created an enabling ecosystem where talent, technology and investment can converge to shape the future of India's space economy.

The Minister noted that the theme was "very thoughtfully coined" because it captures the new energy visible across India's fast-growing space ecosystem. The Minister said that while India always had scientific capability, the turning point came when policy makers created an environment that encouraged innovation and broad-based participation. Reforms introduced since 2019, including opening the sector to private players, establishing IN-SPACe as a single-window regulatory body, and releasing the space policy in 2023, have helped India expand its role in the global space landscape.

Highlighting the "inclusion" aspect of the theme, he said the unlocking of the space sector has brought start-ups, students, industry and citizens into what was once a closed domain. Thousands now witness rocket launches in person, and more than 300 space start-ups have emerged in just a few years. Many of them have secured foreign investments and grown rapidly, demonstrating the entrepreneurial talent that had long remained untapped.

On "innovation," Dr. Jitendra Singh pointed to India's achievementsfrom Chandrayaan's south pole landing and the discovery of lunar water to the successful Mangalyaan mission and the launch of 104 satellites in one go. He underlined that India's most significant contribution has been the application of space technology for governance and citizen welfare. Nearly 70% of India's space applications now support ease of living, he said, citing Gati Shakti for infrastructure planning, SWAMITVA for land mapping, satellite-enabled disaster management, telemedicine in remote regions and railway safety systems that can detect obstructions well in advance.

The Minister said this approach also strengthens "resilience," another core element of the Conclave's theme, as satellite-based services now support disaster response, agriculture, weather forecasting and connectivity across the country. India is extending these capabilities to neighbouring nations as well, with satellites supporting Bhutan, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Nepal and Myanmar.

The Minister said the confidence shown by delegations from Japan, Italy and several others reinforce India's position as a preferred global destination for space partnerships. He credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi for dismantling long-standing barriers in strategic sectors such as space and atomic energy, creating the policy environment required for India's global expansion.

As IISC 2025 brought together ministries, industry, space agencies, investors, start-ups and academia, Dr. Jitendra Singh said the deliberations will further strengthen India's efforts toward building an innovative, inclusive and resilient space ecosystem. He concluded that with the space economy projected to grow fivefold in the coming years, India is poised to secure a stronger position in the global space order, in line with the vision reflected in this year's theme.

*****

NKR/AK

(Release ID: 2191304)

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Press conference - Wagerup, WA

Transcript

Tuesday 18 November 2025

Wagerup, WA

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

The Hon Anthony Albanese MP

Prime Minister of Australia

The Hon Madeleine King MP

Minister for Resources

Senator the Hon Tim Ayres

Minister for Industry and Innovation

Minister for Science

ELSABE MULLER, PRESIDENT OF ALCOA AUSTRALIA: Can I thank the Prime Minister and his team here today for their efforts their effort to make this project about. We also acknowledge the support that we received from the Japanese, the US Government, Sojitz Corporation, and then also from the West Australian Premier, Roger Cook and his team. This opportunity will see us as Alcoa to further value add from the bauxite that Alcoa already mine, to further use alumina here, and then also into aluminum, by then further extracting the gallium that actually is naturally found in the bauxite deposits. This project represents our shared commitment to continue to add value in Australia. Over to you.

MADELEINE KING, MINISTER FOR RESOURCES: Thanks. Thanks so much Elsabe. Thanks to all the workers here that have accommodated our visit, and thanks of course to the Prime Minister for coming again to Perth. We have just been in the south west. I know you were in Busselton last night, Prime Minister. And we had a full ministry meeting in Bunbury earlier today. It's a real honour to be here at a place like Wagerup and this really remarkable facility that already exists and has been running for some time. Employs about 1500 workers, and Alcoa employs another 1,000 in Pinjarra, not far from here as well, which is a really, very important part of the community here in the south west that provides really good jobs, stable jobs, for a community of workers that live nearby and live in these communities. And this is just an extension on that, but a really important one. So the gallium refinery that's going to be built where we're we stand here today is, as Elsabe said, a really a remarkable confluence of worlds coming together, where we have Sojitz working with Alcoa, also with the Australian Clinical Mineral Facility, and also with interest from US Export-Import Bank to make sure that this project gets off the ground. So I'll let Prime Minister talk about it a bit more. But thank you so much for coming, it's a real vote of confidence in Australia's mining sector, but also how we can add value here in Western Australia. So thank you very much for coming. Prime Minister, over to you.

ANTHONY ALBANESE, PRIME MINISTER: Thanks very much. Well, firstly, thank you to Elsabe and her team for welcoming us here at Alcoa. And of course, I'm joined by Madeleine King, I'm joined by Tim Ayres, who is the Minister for Industry. Both Madeline and Tim travelled to the United States for the agreement that we made just a few weeks ago. And we're also joined by Senator Ellie Whiteaker and also by Andrew Charlton, who has responsibility as Cabinet Secretary, but also as Assistant Minister for Science and Assistant Minister helping out the work that Tim Ayres is doing in this important portfolio. Well, this is what a future made in Australia looks like. Right here, right now. This exciting project will make an enormous difference. Something like 200 jobs in construction in the lead up to next year, and then ongoing jobs, a couple of dozen jobs, ongoing here in this region, making sure that we do have a future made in Australia, but also that we take advantage of the critical minerals that we have, and rare earths. WA in particular, stands to benefit. Which is why this agreement that we've done with the United States is so important for Western Australia. And earlier today, I had the full ministry meeting, the sixth time that I brought my Cabinet to Western Australia as Prime Minister as part of my 38th visit to Western Australia since I became Prime Minister just three and a half years ago. This is a game changing project for Australia and for the United States. Australia is rich in critical minerals, and we're going to reap the benefits for all Australians. The Critical Minerals Framework that I signed with President Trump in Washington DC, will see us break new ground together. The agreement will see more investment in Australia and provide critical minerals required for defence and other advanced technologies to the United States and also to our strategic partners. It represents a significant new chapter in our engagement with the United States and this project here was one of the ones that we identified as part of the pipeline of projects going forward. The $8.5 billion that we've already identified up front. We have combined $3 billion that we said we'd commit to that pipeline, Australia and the United States. This gallium project here at Alcoa is one of the first projects, and it will produce ten per cent of the world's gallium. Ten per cent just at this project here. And there's a potential for, of course, for it to be upgraded because of the amount of bauxite that's available at this facility here. Creating good, well paid jobs, and this project being underway by 2026, the end of next year. This isn't something that is obscure or something that's in the future. It is happening right here, right now, and we are committing $200 million to this project in concessional equity finance, an example of us investing that will produce a return to government, but also, of course, a return to the nation as well as we sell the products that are produced right here. This is an exciting time for Australia if we seize the opportunities that are right before us. We have what the world needs as it shifts to clean energy, as it shifts the nature of the way that economies function in this century, everything under the ground as well as in the sky, making enormous difference for Australia. Happy to take some questions.

JOURNALIST: The CSIRO, Prime Minister, hundreds of jobs are being cut from the CSIRO today. There were jobs cut last year as well. Which research teams last year does the government want to see cut?

PRIME MINISTER: There were also more jobs created before that occurred. But I'll ask Tim Ayres, the Minister, to respond.

TIM AYRES, MINISTER FOR INDUSTRY & INNOVATION: Yes, there's going to be a process working through over the coming weeks and months, as the CSIRO focuses on making sure that it is, all of its effort is directed towards the research priorities of the CSIRO, and that includes focus on critical minerals, iron and steel production in Australia, making sure that all of our National Science Institute, that important institution, is directed towards those objectives. It is - this is a government that believes in science. We believe in investing in science, we will continue to invest in science, and this is the important part of the CSIRO making sure it is fit for purpose and that it has a modern, forward looking science agenda.

JOURNALIST: What teams are we talking about specifically that are going to go? Is it health and biosecurity, stuff related to the pandemic, which teams are going to go?

MINISTER AYRES: In that area the Centre for Disease Preparedness and the pandemic focused, for future pandemic focused resources of the CSIRO are being maintained and strengthened. Some other areas are being pulled back from. That is in the nature of a prioritisation exercise. I've watched the management and leadership of the CSIRO working through these issues with their staff. There's still more work to do. But they've come forward with that announcement. It is obviously a difficult time for the organisation, but with prioritisation, from a government that believes in their National Science Institution and its capacity to serve the national interests, that is a necessary process, and I support them working their way through those questions.

JOURNALIST: You say some areas are being pulled back. What areas are being pulled back?

MINISTER AYRES: There are some areas and it's been set out, I think, in Doug Hilton's, the CEO's announcement, in some areas, for example, in nutrition, where that, where that work has matured, or it's been undertaken by other scientific and research organisations in our university community, the CSIRO has resolved to pull back from some of that activity. That is, as I say, in the nature of addressing the priorities and making sure that we're in the strongest position for a future made in Australia, for our science and research priorities to drive our industrial and commercial priorities as a country.

PRIME MINISTER: Thanks. Other questions?

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, the Premier has raised the GST again I have no doubt -

PRIME MINISTER: No doubt.

JOURNALIST: Do you give WA your word -

PRIME MINISTER: He got the same answer.

JOURNALIST: You've repeatedly given WA your word, signed reporter's arms. Why does it seem Roger Cook doesn't trust you?

PRIME MINISTER: He certainly does. We're great mates and we've been mates for 40 years.

JOURNALIST: Is there a chance if other parts of the GST formula have to change -

PRIME MINISTER: No, there hasn't been -

JOURNALIST: WA has said that other parts of the formula should change. Could it end up in the Senate? And if so, can you guarantee that you can protect WA's GST?

PRIME MINISTER: We keep things away from the Senate wherever possible, let me tell you that. But our position on the WA GST is very clear. There's been no change to it.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, I want to draw your attention back to Bunbury. You're in the seat of Forrest, one that hasn't been held by Labor since 1969. Last year when Nola Merino stepped aside, was it a wasted opportunity to take a swing?

PRIME MINISTER: No. I think that we had a fantastic candidate in Tabitha Dowding, and she was, with her in Busselton last night. We engaged again this morning, chatting to people there. She did very well in that election. We think that there's a real opportunity in Forrest. We've had a new member who, of course, was a former Senator as well, who has been out there leading the charge saying that climate change isn't real, out there leading the charge to shift the Liberal Party further to the right. It's pretty extraordinary that the message that they have taken from the elections of 2022 and 2025 is that they weren't conservative enough. And in the local MP there, certainly last night, I had the opportunity as well to engage with the Chamber of Commerce on their annual general meeting. I got invited to go and have an informal chat with them. We'll continue to engage. We're engaged in Western Australia, and we did very well. I well remember the front page of The West saying that we would target the electorates of Moore in particular, as well as the new seat and people were saying that that was a bit ambitious. Well, that's precisely what we achieved, and Forrest we see is very winnable next time around.

JOURNALIST: You talk about engaging. But today - are you willing to engage with your critics? Today, for example, you're talking up critical minerals -

PRIME MINISTER: Well, the media are here. Not all, not always, our cheer squad.

JOURNALIST: Not meant to be either.

PRIME MINISTER: No.

JOURNALIST: They're two things that are very much in partnership with Donald Trump. There were a couple of people wearing MAGA hats at the cafe in Bunbury this morning. It appeared you very deliberately avoided them. They said their main concerns are migration and housing. Are you willing to engage with your critics?

PRIME MINISTER: I engage with people all the time. And I engaged with a whole bunch of people who weren't there with any political agenda, people who were just walking about that beautiful foreshore at Busselton, I assure you, there wasn't a check before I went and had discussions with them. Nor was there at the brewery last night, that fantastic brewery on the foreshore there. I was engaged with them. Nor was there while I was having breakfast this morning. I was engaging with them. Very constructively. And I must say, I received a very warm welcome, as we did in Bunbury, where we stopped off at the coffee shop, engaged with a whole bunch of people, many of whom were just there, not to make a political point. They were there, funnily enough, in the coffee shop to have some coffee, and it was a great opportunity to say hi. And one of the things I find about Australians is that it's a great thing that in this country you can just get about as I do, and engage and just talk with people. When I was last in this seat of Canning, it was during the election campaign, we stopped off on the way up to the pre-poll booth at Macca's. And I assure you, people weren't checked at the Macca's that we stopped off on the way as well. So I engage. I'm pretty open to that engagement. There are security issues these days, of course, that we have to deal with.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, why is your government buying fishing boats for people smugglers found in our waters?

PRIME MINISTER: My government engaged in Operation Sovereign Borders because we said we would.

JOURNALIST: How much has that operation it cost you over the past [inaudible] years buying those fishing boats?

PRIME MINISTER: We engage in Operation Sovereign Borders. We make no apologies for that. We engage. I said we would. I said that people wouldn't be allowed to come here unauthorised. That's precisely what we're doing.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister are you subsidising people smugglers and illegal fishers [inaudible] boats?

PRIME MINISTER: What we're doing is making sure that we deliver.

JOURNALIST: Is it hard to convince Australians that you are doing all you can on housing, migration, when Border Force is handing over perfectly good fishing vessels to the people you're trying to stop?

PRIME MINISTER: No. The truth is that there were a range of operations were put in place, including under the former government, ones that it's up to them if they want to talk about that, they can. But this isn't anything new to the government that I lead.

JOURNALIST: Can you see why this operation would come under fire though, because Australia is paying for boats for people smugglers who could come back for more and better boats?

PRIME MINISTER: No.

JOURNALIST: Have you any update on the COP hosting bid? And how much might that potentially cost Australian taxpayers?

PRIME MINISTER: I do. Well, my government, of course, supports global action on climate change as well as action here at home. We have put forward, in good faith, the bid to host COP31 with our friends in the Pacific, and that's about promoting the interests of the Pacific. Now we've worked hard on this. We've run our bid all the way to the Belem conference that's taking place at the moment. We think that there is substantial support for the bid by Australia and the Pacific. But the way that the system works is that if there is not agreement and there's more than one candidate, it goes to Bonn. There is considerable concern, not just from the Pacific, but internationally as well, that that will not send a good signal about the unity that's needed for the world to act on climate. And if Australia is not chosen, if Turkiye is chosen, we wouldn't seek to veto that. What we would seek to do is to ensure that the Pacific benefited from that, through measures, potentially like a leaders meeting to be held in the Pacific, by support for the financing, joining Australia with financing the Pacific Resilience Facility that's so important, by any COP wherever it's held, making sure that they look at financing as well for the island nations that are particularly under threat, not just in the Pacific, but in other countries as well. So we'll work through those issues. We will prioritise making sure that the Pacific's interests are looked after. But this is a difficult situation because of the rules and the way that they operate. And at this stage, there's still, of course, two countries in the field, Australia, and Turkiye. They're both being put forward with good faith, and we're trying to work through those issues.

JOURNALIST: So would you be supportive if Turkiye agrees to host with the Pacific instead of hosting with Australia?

PRIME MINISTER: No, what we're doing is continuing to engage with not just with Turkiye, but other countries as well to make sure that the interests of the Pacific are looked after.

JOURNALIST: On health, the letter that you wrote to state ministers and territories, are you back tracking on that?

PRIME MINISTER: No.

JOURNALIST: The state health ministers are meeting tomorrow morning. Is the federal funding enough for hospital coverage?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, state premiers - it's not surprising. Hold the hold the front page of every paper in the country. Premiers want more money. That is something that goes on. But the truth is, if you look at what we're doing, and Jacinta Allen, I was standing next to the Premier of Victoria yesterday when she got asked this question, and she spoke about the pressures that are on the health system, but that's one of the reasons why we're delivering Urgent Care Clinics that directly take pressure off the public hospital system. There's one in Bunbury, where I was just a couple of hours ago, one of the ones in WA, but of course, we're rolling out additional funds as well. In addition to that, we put in $8.5 billion of additional funds for the tripling of the bulk billing incentive. What that's already seen even before it came in on November 1, is more than 1,000 GPs sign up to fully bulk bill all of their patients. So the Commonwealth has responsibility for primary health care. What we're doing is working through those issues with the states and territories. We'll work them through constructively, and that is the way that we engage.

JOURNALIST: You're failing on your responsibility for aged care, and that's why the state's hospital costs are blowing out.

PRIME MINISTER: No. Well, that's not right, with respect. There was a Royal Commission into Aged Care, where the interim report summarised in one word, neglect. Neglect. Because there weren't enough aged care beds. Now the new system of aged care came in less than a month ago. That is aimed at making sure there are proper incentives for additional aged care beds to be built. You can't go from a system of neglect that had been in place under the former government with underfunding, with the chronic issues of nutrition, where you didn't have nurses being available in aged care facilities. Now, we made a range of commitments, and we've been rolling them out. We said we'd put nurses back in the nursing homes. They're in nursing homes 99 per cent of the time we're providing substantial wage increases for aged care workers. Now that was an issue where aged care facilities were in danger of collapsing because you can't have aged care residents in facilities if there's no workforce. That was the system that we inherited. We've put substantial funds in. There is time it takes to build an aged care facility. Now that we have these reforms in place, you will see that change take place. So we're doing aged care reform, biggest reform this century. We're doing Urgent Care Clinics. We're doing the increase in primary health through the tripling of the bulk billing incentive. That's making a difference, and we'll work through with state and territory governments, the hospital funding arrangements. We put in place a one year extension last year that was substantial of something in the order of $1.7 billion. And we'll continue to work with states and territories. We'll work constructively.

JOURNALIST: But in the meantime, while the fixing of aged care takes time, the number of older people in hospital beds in WA waiting to be discharged, has increased from about 200 at the start of the year to about 300 now. So in the meantime, while it takes time to fix that, don't the states need that extra funding for hospitals?

PRIME MINISTER: We have extra funding on the table for the states and territories. We have additional funding on. We won't negotiate dollar amounts at a press conference. What we'll do is engage constructively. But I do say, with respect to states and territories, there's a few fundamental jobs that they have. One is the public hospital system. Second is the public school system. My government has put additional money into public hospitals and has delivered the full funding for public schools that was talked about under the Gonski reforms, delivered under my government.

JOURNALIST: So is Roger Cook wrong when he said today that the Commonwealth is not honouring the agreement to match the growth 50/50? And did he raise this with you today?

PRIME MINISTER: State governments will always ask -

JOURNALIST: Did he raise it today?

PRIME MINISTER: State governments will always ask for more money.

JOURNALIST: Did he raise it today?

PRIME MINISTER: State governments will always ask for more money. I have discussions with premiers, and you know what? I have it with them, rather than at a press conference.

JOURNALIST: Well, he's having the discussion with the media.

PRIME MINISTER: Well, that's up to him. That's up to him. And with respect, what I do is get outcomes, and sometimes that can cause some frustration from the media who want this to take place in a forum where Roger Cook isn't here. So pretty hard to achieve an outcome.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, how do you plan to solve the housing crisis in regional WA in the next two years?

PRIME MINISTER: Well, one of the things that WA is doing is pretty much almost meeting the target that they had for housing. They are doing well. We have a range of housing programs, everything from our Housing Australia Future Fund, our Build To Rent scheme that encourages private rentals, our Help to Buy scheme, that's based upon a WA Shared Equity scheme, that is now in place. Again, a lot of these schemes were delayed by the Noalition of the Greens and the Coalition. What we've done is to get that legislation through, and now it's making a difference. In addition to that, we of course have our five per cent deposits that are increasing the opportunity for young people to get into their first home.

JOURNALIST: Prime Minister, protestors were out today in Bunbury. How do you respond to their ongoing concerns, particularly on offshore wind farms and impacts on the environment such as bird migration?

PRIME MINISTER: Oh, look, we're in a democracy, people are entitled. I didn't see any of them myself.

JOURNALIST: [inaudible]

PRIME MINISTER: Good on them. Good on them. They're entitled to express their views, but what we're doing is getting on with what's required. And one of the things about that part of the world, is that Collie, of course, the site of the Collie Power Station, something that's a Liberal free zone. I'll tell you what - they wouldn't be there protesting against Peter Dutton or Sussan Ley or any of the advocates of nuclear energy who said there'd be a nuclear power plant there, because they've been nowhere near there. I've been there twice, and when I went the first time, what we saw was the foundations for the big batteries that are being built there. The second time, you know, what we saw? The big batteries. The change is happening. It's happening, and part of that is renewable energy connected up to the grid because it's connecting up with the transmission lines which are there to power WA going forward. That's the transition that is occurring.

JOURNALIST: On Net Zero, WA doesn't have a legislated target, should it?

PRIME MINISTER: They don't really need one, because there's a national one. But it's legislated, and one of the things that is happening when it comes to energy is that we are dealing with - Collie is just like other power plants around Australia, where 24 out of 28 announced their closure or brought forward the date of their closure while the Coalition were in government. Now, they sat there while that was occurring. They had 23 policies, but nothing happened. None of them landed. And what is going on is that there is a 50 year transition. The power plants that were built a long time ago are just reaching the end of their life, and they did nothing about increasing supply. And that's why we are having to deal with the challenges which are there, but we're dealing with them constructively. And all of the energy operators say very clearly that the cheapest form of new energy is to have renewables, backed by gas, backed by hydro and backed by battery storage. That is what all of the experts say. And the Coalition, frankly, are just all over the shop. I mean, we have one policy, they have one pamphlet. It's a pamphlet with nothing underneath it. It's a pamphlet that is incoherent, that has contradictions throughout it, where they say today and last night on 7.30, and you have different positions about coal and whether there'll be an extension. Sussan Ley said very clearly last night, 'well, it doesn't stack up, so there won't be new investment in coal'. Well, that's the whole basis of their policy. That is the whole basis of what they are saying, is that they will subsidise coal which doesn't stack up, according to the person who launched the policy, who doesn't believe in it, but couldn't carry her party with her on the Net Zero journey. Net Zero was established by Scott Morrison as Prime Minister and by Angus Taylor as the Energy Minister. We signed up to the Paris Agreement under Tony Abbott. I mean, this is - you couldn't make this up if you tried. It is very, it is just extraordinary. And the Australian people deserve better than this mess, which what they are already doing is paying a price for the decade of incoherent lack of policy from the former Coalition. Thank you.

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Defence Minister McGuinty hosts roundtable with defence industry stakeholders

National Defence

Readout

November 18, 2025 - Ottawa, ON - National Defence / Canadian Armed Forces

Yesterday, the Honourable David McGuinty, Minister of National Defence, hosted a roundtable discussion with venture capital stakeholders to help advance Canada's forthcoming Defence Industrial Strategy.

Participants discussed how best to mobilize innovation, finance and industry in the service of sovereignty.

Canada is looking beyond traditional defence capabilities to rapidly leverage innovation in areas like quantum sensors, post quantum encryption, robotics, autonomous systems, and AI, so that those who wear the uniform are never left to fight tomorrow's wars with yesterday's tools.

The next phase of our effort requires aligning public purpose and private capital by creating regulatory certainty, demand signals and risk-sharing mechanism that makes defence innovation investable and delivers the capabilities required by the Canadian Armed Forces.

Moving forward participants agreed that Canada must become our own best customer and strongest proponent for our own technology and companies on the world stage.

We resolved to develop procurement mechanisms that move at the speed of threat, relevance and capital.

The Department of National Defence will continue working closely with Canadian industry partners to build a strong and resilient defence industrial base that supports Canada's defence and economic needs for decades to come.

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Joint statement by Prime Minister Carney and Prime Minister Kristersson

Prime Minister of Canada - Mark Carney

November 18, 2025

Ottawa, Ontario

Northern allies, innovators, and trade partners: Strategic partnership between Canada and Sweden

A partnership based on common values and mutual interests

Canada and Sweden (the "Participants") share a close relationship with extensive cooperation based on common values and mutual interests. As NATO Allies, we stand united in defending our freedom, territories, values, and interests. We are like-minded Arctic nations with shared interests in the North Atlantic and the Arctic region, and who recognise the vital contributions and rights of Indigenous Peoples in the Arctic in keeping with the UN Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples and international law. Canada and Sweden affirm our strong commitment to democracy and multilateralism, and to upholding human rights, including gender equality, the rule of law and the rules-based international order and trade system.

We confirm our shared desire to reinforce our bilateral relations through the establishment of this Strategic Partnership. It will strengthen the already close relations between our countries and further develop our cooperation in key policy areas, inter alia, competitiveness, trade and investment, economic development, security and defence, digital transition, science and research, innovation and technology, green transition, climate and energy, and Arctic cooperation and North-North connections. This Strategic Partnership reflects the rich and deepening ties between our peoples, governments, institutions, and businesses across the breadth of our relationship. It is aligned with the EU-Canada Strategic Partnership Agreement, EU-Canada Security and Defence Partnership and Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA).

A reliable trade partnership

We are like-minded supporters of free and rules-based trade. Canada and Sweden have complementary economies and enjoy a strong and growing commercial relationship, and this Strategic Partnership can unlock significant opportunities for both countries. The Canada-EU Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement offers predictability and transparency for businesses from both countries, and our countries are witnessing rapidly growing trade and investment relations.

Canada and Sweden will work together to further strengthen our business, commercial and industrial links, focusing particularly on sectors that will be most effective in enhancing the competitiveness, and productivity of our economies. We are committed to further diversifying and strengthening the resilience of our respective economies while reducing vulnerabilities in supply chains to minimize harmful dependencies.

This Strategic Partnership aims at promoting competitiveness and innovative solutions to societal challenges, such as the digital and green transition, as well as emerging strategic challenges. Leveraging key resources - such as our critical minerals, energy, and talent - will create new market opportunities for Canadian and Swedish businesses, foster sustainable economic development and create jobs, and help us achieve ambitions across a range of priorities from security and defence to prosperity, and climate goals.

A joint commitment to security, defence, and stability

Enhancing our partnership is more important than ever given the global challenges we face together, including Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, increasing cyber and hybrid threats, the increasing impact of climate change and the corresponding need for higher global climate ambition. Canada and Sweden are committed to deepening and broadening our bilateral engagement to tackle these shared challenges, including by the development of a mutual arrangement on strengthened defence cooperation.

As close transatlantic partners, NATO Allies and Arctic nations, Canada and Sweden are committed to strengthening the transatlantic link further. Our joint responses to Russia's aggression against Ukraine have demonstrated the importance of transatlantic unity and cooperation. NATO remains the cornerstone of Euro-Atlantic security and the bedrock of collective defence.

Canada and Sweden's shared commitment to security and defence in the Euro-Atlantic area and the close partnership as NATO Allies provides an opportunity for deeper military cooperation between our countries, including through Canada's role as framework nation for the NATO Multinational Brigade in Latvia. We recognize the potential for joint defence procurement, production, capability development and innovation.

We reaffirm our unwavering support for Ukraine's independence, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine is a violation of international law, including the Charter of the United Nations. We concur on the need to ensure accountability for Russia's international crimes, including by establishing a special tribunal for the crime of aggression.

Canada and Sweden support Ukraine's diplomatic efforts for a just and lasting peace based on international law and the UN Charter. To this end, Canada and Sweden will continue to work closely together with our other partners in the Coalition of the Willing to develop security guarantees for Ukraine and to support its defence. Canada and Sweden will also continue to support Ukraine on its irreversible path to full Euro-Atlantic integration; Ukraine's future is in NATO. We will continue our support to Ukraine for as long as it takes, both bilaterally and multilaterally.

Recognizing that Russia will remain the most significant threat to Euro-Atlantic security for the foreseeable future, Canada and Sweden will continue to cooperate closely to constrain and contest Russia's aggressive actions and counter its ability to conduct destabilising activities. We underline the importance of limiting Russia's ability to wage its war of aggression, including through supporting sanctions and measures against the shadow fleet transporting Russian oil used to circumvent sanctions and the G7 oil price cap.

Canada and Sweden recognise the value of our likeminded approach to arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation and continued cooperation within the frameworks of the Anti-Personnel Mine Ban Convention (the Ottawa Convention), the Stockholm Initiative for Nuclear Disarmament and the Initiative for Reducing the Risk of Nuclear Conflict.

Guided by the core principles of multilateral cooperation, international law including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), territorial integrity, and the rules-based international order, Canada and Sweden are committed to strengthening our collaboration to address the complex global challenges in the Arctic and maintain the region as secure, peaceful, and prosperous. Canada and Sweden both recognize the Arctic Council as the pre-eminent forum for Arctic governance and cooperation on sustainable development and environmental protection in the region, in collaboration with Indigenous Peoples and for the benefit of the people living in the Arctic.

Canada and Sweden recognise that the prosperity and security of the Euro-Atlantic and Indo-Pacific regions are inextricably linked. We will work to bolster partnerships with the Indo-Pacific region, including through the implementation of Canada's and the EU's Indo-Pacific Strategies, and Sweden's defence policy direction for the Indo-Pacific region.

Enabling innovation and competitiveness through a strategic focus on science and technology

Canada and Sweden are global leaders in science and innovation. We recognise that our capacity in this respect is the key to solving the grand challenges of our time and fundamental for sustainable economic development and job creation.

We will build on the already close cooperation within established bodies such as the European Space Agency, Arctic Council, and others. Canada and Sweden encourage research collaboration between higher education institutions and research institutions, including through the EU Framework Programme for Research and Innovation, Horizon Europe. To maintain our leadership in science and innovation we will foster research excellence, safeguard academic freedom and strengthen responsible internationalisation.

By leveraging closer collaboration in research and technology development, Canada and Sweden will continue to drive innovation while also supporting the responsible use and commercialisation of emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, quantum and space technologies, next-generation wireless networks, including 5G and 6G, and clean energy. This cooperation is expected to foster robust innovation ecosystems, unlock business opportunities, and support long-term economic growth.

Canada and Sweden will enhance cooperation in health, as well as pandemic and health emergency preparedness and response, focusing on pharmaceutical policy, life sciences, supply chain resilience, industrial cooperation, and medical countermeasures. Canada and Sweden will also endeavour to share knowledge and best practices in infectious disease monitoring and surveillance, as well as progress we have made towards global disease elimination targets.

Firmly committed to international development, environmental protection, climate action, and clean energy

Canada and Sweden are committed to the implementation of international development priorities and delivering accelerated progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and the Sustainable Development Goals, the Addis Ababa Action Agenda on Financing for Development, the Paris Agreement, the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and the Global Framework on Chemicals. As members of the High Ambition Coalition to End Plastic Pollution, Canada and Sweden share the common ambition of ending plastic pollution by 2040.

Canada and Sweden are committed to advancing global climate action and efforts to limit temperature rise to 1.5C as set out in the Paris Agreement. Together, we will accelerate action in order to achieve net-zero emissions. This will be done in accordance with our respective national targets and in keeping with the science, including through cooperation on nuclear power, nuclear safety, and clean technologies. In response to shifting geopolitical and geoeconomic dynamics, we will aim to deepen bilateral cooperation and promote the global adoption of advanced technologies in areas such as decarbonized steel, critical minerals, and small modular reactors, thereby supporting a sustainable and resilient future.

Scope of cooperation

Pillar 1: Economic development, competitiveness, trade and investment

Within this pillar, Canada and Sweden will deepen our partnership and cooperation in the following policy areas and topics, including but not limited to:

bilateral trade, investment, and innovation relations

economic security including critical minerals, foreign investment screening, and resilient and secure supply chains

forestry, forest products and forest-based bioeconomy

international trade and the multilateral trading system, including the WTO

mining and critical minerals

modular and prefabricated housing innovation

talent attraction, migration and integration

Work within this pillar will be coordinated by Global Affairs Canada and Sweden's Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Pillar 2: Security, defence, and resilience

Within this pillar, Canada and Sweden will deepen our partnership and cooperation in the following policy areas and topics, including but not limited to:

NATO and the transatlantic link

long-term support to Ukraine

strategic dialogue on security and defence issues

military and civilian training and exercises, including multilaterally

defence industrial co-operation in the land, air, and maritime domain, including critical underwater infrastructure

defence materiel cooperation including information exchange, joint test and evaluation, exchange of personnel, common capability development and joint procurement

defence research and development, innovation and technology, including new emerging and disruptive technologies, such as exploring advanced cyber capability, quantum technology and artificial intelligence

defence logistics support and security of supply

hybrid threats, cyber defence and cyber security, disinformation, and the space domain

secure information exchange and situational awareness

women, peace and security, including but not limited to women in peace operations

arms control, disarmament and non-proliferation

export control on military equipment and dual-use items

climate-security nexus

civilian missions and military operations under the EU's Common Security and Defence Policy

societal resilience, civil preparedness and the Swedish total defence concept

democracy support

Work within this pillar will be coordinated by Global Affairs Canada and Canada's Department of National Defence, and Sweden's Ministry for Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defence.

Pillar 3: Arctic cooperation and North-North connections

Within this pillar, Canada and Sweden will deepen our partnership and cooperation in the following policy areas and topics, including but not limited to:

Arctic Council

civil safety, and security and defence

Indigenous culture and language

Northern and Indigenous trade and export

polar and Arctic research

polar connectivity and infrastructure

Work within this pillar will be coordinated by Global Affairs Canada and Sweden's Ministry for Foreign Affairs.

Pillar 4: Digital transition, research, science, innovation, technology, health and life sciences

Within this pillar, Canada and Sweden will deepen our partnership and cooperation in the following policy areas and topics, including but not limited to:

antimicrobial resistance in the animal sector

artificial intelligence

biomanufacturing and life sciences

digitalization and connectivity

health emergency and pandemic preparedness and life sciences innovation

infectious disease monitoring and surveillance

next generation wireless networks and the use of secure, resilient and trusted connectivity, including 5G and 6G

pharmaceutical policy

quantum technology

space

Work within this pillar will be coordinated by Canada's Department for Industry, Science and Economic Development, Health Canada and the Public Health Agency of Canada, and Sweden's Ministry of Education and Research and Ministry of Health and Social Affairs.

Pillar 5: Climate, environment, and energy

Within this pillar, Canada and Sweden will deepen our partnership and cooperation in the following policy areas and topics, including but not limited to:

climate action, including mitigation, adaptation and finance, and with a focus on measures and technologies to close the ambition gap and advance implementation of national climate plans, including Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), in line with efforts to keep the Paris Agreement's 1.5C warming goal within reach

environmental protection, including plastic pollution

promoting the deployment of clean electricity and nuclear power

natural disasters and risk management

nuclear power and direct and indirect fossil free electrification of the energy system, and nuclear safety, management of spent fuel and radioactive waste

Work within this pillar will be coordinated by Environment and Climate Change Canada and Natural Resources Canada, and Sweden's Ministry of Climate and Enterprise.

Application and review

This Strategic Partnership will bring together people, governments, institutions, and businesses, and paves the way for deepened cooperation between Canada and Sweden. An action plan will be developed with concrete actions in the pillars and their respective policy areas and topics set out above. These actions will be specified in the action plan and could include, inter alia:

conferences, roundtables and business fora

establishment of memoranda of understanding, agreements and treaties

exchange and sharing of information and assessments

exchange of expertise, experiences and best practices

increased contacts and visits at political and civil servant levels, including government agencies

joint engagement with external stakeholders such as businesses, academia and research institutes, think tanks and civil society organizations

joint political initiatives and formulation of political positions, including in multilateral organizations, formats and contexts

joint projects and cooperation platforms

personnel exchange and secondments

promotion of people-to-people contacts

regular consultations at political and civil servant levels, including the establishment of dialogue formats and mechanisms

Global Affairs Canada and Sweden's Ministry for Foreign Affairs will coordinate the application of this Strategic Partnership and its action plan, and review progress across the full range of policy areas and topics, in close consultation with the respective departments and ministries, and their subordinated government agencies.

Canada and Sweden will review progress of this Strategic Partnership and its action plan annually or when otherwise required.

Amendments of this Strategic Partnership and its action plan may be decided through regular diplomatic channels of communication between Canada and Sweden.

The Participants may amend this Strategic Partnership at any time upon their mutual written consent.

Either Participant may terminate this Strategic Partnership by giving to the other Participant ninety (90) days' written notice of its intent to terminate.

Legal

This Strategic Partnership is not legally binding under international law.

Signed in the English and French languages, each version being equally valid.

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PLA Navy announces Fujian carrier formation's 1st live-force training; warship becoming combat-ready fast, experts say

Global Times

By Liu Xuanzun and Liang Rui Published: Nov 18, 2025 05:45 PM

Less than two weeks after the commissioning of China's third aircraft carrier, the Fujian, the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) Navy announced on Tuesday that the electromagnetic catapult-equipped warship has already conducted its first live-force maritime training in a carrier formation. This reflected the speed how fast the Fujian is becoming combat-ready, said experts.

The Fujian carrier formation recently conducted multi-subject maritime training, marking the first live-force maritime training since its commissioning, the PLA Navy said in a statement on Tuesday.

During the mission, the formation, consisting of multiple ships including the Fujian, Yan'an and Tongliao conducted training including formation navigation, joint ship-aircraft search and rescue and carrier-based aircraft takeoffs and landings, the PLA Navy said.

According to official media reports, the Yan'an is a Type 055 large destroyer, while the Tongliao is a Type 054A frigate.

The PLA Navy also released details of the training. It said that during the joint ship-aircraft search and rescue training, ships and aircraft coordinated seamlessly after the formation command post issued emergency orders, quickly completing the rescue mission. The training refined procedures for handling carrier-based aircraft emergencies and the transition of search and rescue forces, enhancing its emergency response capability.

Multiple types of carrier-based aircraft, including the J-35 stealth fighter jet, J-15T heavy fighter jet, J-15DT electronic warfare aircraft and KJ-600 early warning aircraft, successively completed multiple catapult takeoffs and landing drills on the Fujian. The tests verified the carrier's electromagnetic catapult, recovery and flight deck operation capabilities, and further confirmed aircraft-ship compatibility, according to the PLA Navy statement.

Bao Yu, a crew member of the Fujian, said in a China Central Television (CCTV) News report on Tuesday that "Through continuous actual equipment training, we have gained a more accurate understanding of the performance parameters of the electromagnetic catapult and arresting system, become more proficient in the operation and use of various types of equipment, and achieved more tacit coordination between each combat position and carrier-based aircraft pilots, laying a solid capability foundation for the safe and efficient launch and recovery of carrier-based aircraft."

The Fujian carrier formation's maritime training is a routine arrangement in accordance with the work plan, with the aim of verifying training effectiveness and strengthening its ability to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, according to the CCTV News report.

China's first aircraft carrier equipped with electromagnetic catapults, the Fujian, was commissioned at a naval port in Sanya, South China's Hainan Province on November 5, official media reported at the time.

According to official media reports, the Fujian, China's third aircraft carrier, with hull number 18, was launched in June 2022. Unlike the ski-jump decks of China's first two carriers - the Liaoning and the Shandong - it is China's first domestically built carrier that uses catapults. With a full-load displacement of more than 80,000 tons, the carrier is equipped with electromagnetic catapults and arresting devices.

Wang Yunfei, a Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times on Tuesday that the first live-force maritime training is a key step toward forming initial operational capability by practicing coordination among the carrier, aircraft, other vessels and weapons.

The live-force training was successfully held in less than half a month since the Fujian's commissioning ceremony, and Wang said this indicated that many of the Fujian's basic-level training missions were completed even before its official commissioning.

This pace suggests the Fujian could reach combat readiness and begin operational deployment missions sooner than expected, Wang said.

Song Zhongping, another Chinese military affairs expert, told the Global Times that The Fujian's commissioning is only a starting point. The new aircraft carrier is expected to undergo extensive training, joint exercises and confrontational drills to strengthen its capabilities.

Aircraft carriers do not fight alone but in carrier formations, which typically include destroyers, frigates, submarines and replenishment ships, Song said, underscoring the importance of conducting training in a formation.

In the future, the Fujian could also form special task groups with amphibious warships such as the Type 075 and Type 076 amphibious assault ships, significantly boosting the PLA Navy's combat capabilities, Song said.

Less than a year since its launch, China's first electromagnetic catapult-equipped Type 076 amphibious assault ship, the Sichuan, began its maiden sea trial on Friday and returned to port on Sunday after completing a three-day test voyage, according to official media reports. Experts said that this indicates smooth progress on the construction of this warship, which could play roles of both an amphibious vessel and a light aircraft carrier.

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China holds consultations with Japan in Beijing, urging Japan to withdraw its wrongful remarks

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 15:48, November 18, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Liu Jinsong, director general of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs, held consultations with Kanai Masaaki, director-general of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, on Tuesday in Beijing, according to a foreign ministry spokesperson.

Mao Ning told a regular news briefing on Tuesday that during the consultations, China once again lodged stern representations with Japan over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's wrongful remarks regarding China.

China said Takaichi's fallacies seriously violated the international law and the basic norms governing international relations, seriously undermined the post-war international order, seriously violated the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, fundamentally undermined the political foundation of China-Japan relations, had extremely bad nature and influence and stirred up public anger and condemnation among the Chinese people, according to Mao.

She said China has earnestly urged Japan to withdraw its wrongful remarks, stop creating trouble on China-related issues, take concrete actions to admit mistakes and correct deviations, and safeguard the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

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Chinese PLA Navy's Aircraft Carrier Fujian Conducts First Maritime Live-force Training

Ministry of National Defense of the People's Republic of China

Source China Military Online

EditorLi Weichao

Time2025-11-18 17:37:06

SANYA, Nov. 18 -- A Chinese carrier strike group comprising multiple vessels including the aircraft carrier Fujian (Hull 18), guided-missile destroyer Yan'an (Hull 106), and guided-missile frigate Tongliao (Hull 554), recently returned to a military port in Sanya City, south China's Hainan Province, after completing maritime training exercises. This marks the first maritime live-force training mission conducted by the aircraft carrier Fujian since its commissioning on Nov. 5, 2025.

During the mission, multiple types of carrier-based aircraft such as the J-15T heavy fighter jet, J-15DT electronic warfare aircraft, J-35 stealth fighter jet, and KJ-600 early warning aircraft completed multiple sorties of electromagnetic catapult-assisted takeoff and arrested landing training, which effectively tested the full-deck operational capability of the aircraft carrier Fujian, and further verified the sound compatibility of the ship's electromagnetic catapult and arresting systems with multiple aircraft types. In addition, the carrier strike group also conducted training on multiple subjects such as formation navigation and joint ship-aircraft search and rescue operations.

It is learned that the maritime training is a normal arrangement in accordance with the work plan, aiming to test the training effectiveness of the Fujian carrier strike group and enhance its capability to safeguard China's national sovereignty, security and development interests.

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Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning's Regular Press Conference on November 18, 2025

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the People's Republic of China

Updated: November 18, 2025 20:49

CCTV: Yesterday, King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua of Thailand has just ended the state visit to China. Could you share more information with us on the visit, its main achievements and highlights?

Mao Ning: At the invitation of President Xi Jinping, His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn of the Kingdom of Thailand paid a state visit to China from November 13 to 17. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the China-Thailand diplomatic relations and "the Golden Jubilee of China-Thailand Friendship." This is the first time for the King of Thailand to visit China since the establishment of diplomatic ties and China is the first major country which His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn officially visits after taking the throne.

President Xi Jinping and His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn met on November 14, and reached important common understandings on developing friendly ties between China and Thailand, ushering in greater progress together in building the China-Thailand community with a shared future in the next 50 years, and jointly writing a brand new chapter of China-Thailand friendship. The two heads of state both believe that over the past half-century, facing the changing international landscape, China and Thailand have always worked hand in hand and helped each other, and have truly been good relatives, good friends and good partners. Thailand and China have extensive people-to-people exchanges, and broad-based, in-depth and mutually beneficial cooperation. The cooperation between China and Thailand is cooperation between brothers. Both heads of state agreed that at a critical stage of respective national development and revitalization, China and Thailand should enhance synergy of their strategies so as to deliver more tangible benefits through China-Thailand cooperation to the two peoples. It is important to strengthen cultural connectivity, promote people-to-people exchanges, and bring the two peoples closer through more visits. Premier Li Qiang also met with His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn.

During the visit, King Maha Vajiralongkorn and Queen Suthida laid wreaths at the Monument to the People's Heroes. They also toured sights in Beijing to see the achievements of China's modernization up close and promote cultural exchanges between China and Thailand.

We believe that under the joint guidance of the two heads of state, the warm friendship of Jeen Thai Phee Nong Gan (Chinese and Thais are one family) will grow even stronger with time, and China-Thailand relations will make even greater progress in the next 50 years.

AFP: Sources say that Syria intends to hand over jihadist fighters from China's Uyghur minority to Beijing. Syrian Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shibani was on his first visit to China yesterday and the issue of the Uyghur fighters was expected to be on his agenda. Does the Foreign Ministry have a comment on this and did the two sides discuss this issue?

Mao Ning: About the meeting between Chinese and Syrian foreign ministers, we have released a readout, which you may refer to. Let me stress that the Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) is a terrorist organization designated by China in accordance with the law and listed by the U.N. Security Council. Combating ETIM is China's core concern in counterterrorism. The Syrian side commits itself to not allowing any entity to use the Syrian territory to engage in activities that undermine China's national security, sovereignty, and interests. Both sides agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in security and counterterrorism and fight all forms of terrorism.

China News Service: Recently, in a written answer given by Kaja Kallas, the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, to MEPs of the European Parliament, she said "On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Asia, the EU paid tribute also to the courage of the people of China, who endured immense suffering in defending their homeland and contributing to the end of the war." What's China's comment?

Mao Ning: China noted the statement made by High Representative Kaja Kallas. Eighty years ago, as the main theater of World War II in the East, China has made enormous sacrifice for and great, indelible contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. It's a fact that has gone down in history and is widely recognized by the international community. To uphold the post-WWII international order, one must view history correctly. China and the EU need to promote a correct historical perspective on World War II, resolutely safeguard the fruits of the victory in the War and the international order with the UN at its core, and jointly make greater contributions to world peace and development.

NHK: We've learned that Kanai Masaaki, Director-General of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau today held talks with Liu Jinsong, Director General of the Department of Asian Affairs of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Can you share the details?

Mao Ning: This morning, Director General Liu Jinsong of the Department of Asian Affairs of China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs held consultation with Director-General of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau Kanai Masaaki in Beijing.

During the consultation, the Chinese side once again lodged serious protest with Japan over the wrongful remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi concerning China. The Chinese side made it clear that the prime minister's remarks seriously violate international law and basic norms in international relations, erode the post-WWII international order, and go against the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan. Those remarks have caused fundamental damage to the political foundation of China-Japan relations. The egregiousness of both the nature and impact of those remarks has triggered strong outrage and condemnation from the Chinese people. China seriously urges Japan to retract Sanae Takaichi's wrongful remarks, stop making provocations on issues concerning China, take practical steps to admit and correct the wrongdoing, and uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

Shenzhen TV: It's reported that on the morning of November 16, four China Coast Guard vessels entered the surrounding waters of Diaoyu Dao. The Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara Minoru said on the press conference on November 17 that Japan has lodged a stern protest through diplomatic channels over this. What's China's comment?

Mao Ning: Diaoyu Dao and its affiliated islands have always been China's territory. The patrols and law enforcement of China Coast Guard vessels in China's territorial waters are legitimate, lawful and fully justified. China does not accept the groundless protest of the Japanese side, and has rejected it and lodged a counter protest on the spot. China calls on the Japanese side to abide by the four-point principled consensus between China and Japan and respect China's territorial sovereignty. Japan must not disrupt the patrols and law enforcement activities of China Coast Guard vessels, and must not take any action that may escalate the situation.

AFP: Japan's embassy in China has warned its citizens here to be careful of their surroundings and to avoid big crowds. Does the Foreign Ministry have a comment on this?

Mao Ning: The Chinese government has always and will continue to protect the safety of foreign nationals in China in accordance with the law.

PTI: A court in Bangladesh yesterday sentenced deposed Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina to death for the incidents of violence that took place during her regime. She of course said it is a rigged trial conducted by an unelected government. She also expressed the willingness to be tried by the International Criminal Court in Hague. What is China's reaction to this?

Mao Ning: This is the domestic affair of Bangladesh. China pursues a policy of good neighborliness and friendship toward all Bangladeshi people. We sincerely hope Bangladesh will realize solidarity, stability and development.

Global Times: It's reported that U.S. Ambassador to Japan George Glass on X "thanked" Chinese diplomats for "strengthening the deep bond between the United States and Japan." What's China's comment on this?

Mao Ning: The relevant post of this U.S. Ambassador is pure political stunt and a departure from his capacity and duty as a diplomat. The U.S.-Japan alliance is a product of the Cold War. It should not target any third party, still less blatantly interfere in the internal affairs and undermine the core interests of other countries.

DPA: After holding the high-level financial dialogue with Vice Premier He Lifeng, German Vice Chancellor and Finance Minister Lars Klingbeil said that the two sides talked about the Taiwan question, and the German government is concerned about possible escalation of cross-Strait tensions. What is the Foreign Ministry's comment?

Mao Ning: The Taiwan question is China's internal affair. How to resolve it is a matter for the Chinese ourselves and brooks no interference by any external forces. The key to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait is to uphold the one-China principle and firmly oppose "Taiwan independence."

Reuters: There seems to be reports saying that the Chinese consulate in Osaka has reached out to Japanese officials there about canceling a Japan-China commemorative event that was planned to be held in Hiroshima on November 21. Is this true and can we get any other comment about this?

Mao Ning: The Japanese side should earnestly abide by the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations and the Vienna Convention on Consular Relations and provide facilitation for Chinese diplomatic and consular missions in Japan in performing their duties.

CCTV: Recently, we've seen intense criticism from China on Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan. Some believe that relations between the two countries have hit the lowest point in recent years. Where do you think the relationship is headed?

Mao Ning: The current situation in China-Japan relations is caused by Prime Minister Takaichi's blatant remarks on Taiwan. Those remarks grossly interfered in China's internal affairs, violated the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between the two countries, and eroded the political foundation of bilateral relations.

China stands firm to defend its core interests and international justice. Japan must retract its erroneous remarks, repent and change course, offering a clear and satisfactory answer to the Chinese people.

AFP: Asbestos contamination in tubs of children's play sand imported from China on Tuesday forced a string of school closures in New Zealand. Many schools were also closed in Australia on Monday due to the tainted products. Does the Foreign Ministry have a fresh comment on this?

Mao Ning: We noted the report and that local companies in Australia said they are in communication with suppliers to address relevant issue.

China Daily: Several Japanese officials reportedly said that Japan is planning to revise its Self-Defense Force's ranking system, including reinstating old Japanese military ranks, such as "Taisa" (colonel). Media comments say that this will break the Self-Defense Force's convention of downplaying its military nature over the years, and this is adding insult to injury for nations that have suffered from Japanese colonial rule and aggression. What is your comment?

Mao Ning: Due to Japan's history of colonial rule and aggression, Japan's military and security moves have been closely watched by its Asian neighbors and the international community. The Potsdam Proclamation explicitly stipulates that Japan shall not be permitted to "re-arm for war." The Japanese Constitution, which enshrines pacifism, also established Japan's exclusively defense-oriented policy. It is alarming, however, that in recent years, Japan has drastically readjusted its security and defense policy, increased defense budget year after year, relaxed restrictions on arms export, sought to develop offensive weapons, and planned to abandon its three non-nuclear principles. Japan's far-right forces are trying every means to break free from the pacifist constitution, and going further down the path of boosting Japan's military buildup.

Eighty years ago, the war of aggression waged by Japanese militarism inflicted profound sufferings on Asia and the world. Amnesia of war spells disaster; war-mongering spells doom. Lessons from history must not be forgotten, distorted, or even erased. Eighty years on, militarism must never be revived in Japan, the post-WWII international order must never be challenged, and world peace and stability must never be ruined again.

PTI: Yesterday, China along with Russia abstained from the UN resolution on Gaza. Can you just outline the reasons behind China's abstention?

Mao Ning: The Chinese representative fully outlined China's position in the explanation of vote on the resolution. China supports the Security Council in taking all necessary moves to realize a lasting ceasefire, ease the humanitarian disaster, and start post-conflict reconstruction in Gaza. The U.S.-drafted resolution is vague about key issues concerning post-conflict arrangement in Gaza, and fails to fully reflect important principles including the "the Palestinians governing Palestine" and the two-State solution. Given the gap between the draft resolution and China's long-standing position, China did not vote for the draft resolution. China will maintain a constructive and responsible approach, continue to support the just cause of the Palestinian people in restoring their legitimate national rights, and make relentless efforts for the full, just and lasting settlement of the Palestinian question.

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Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Pays Congratulatory Visit to Ministry of State Security

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, November 19 (KCNA) -- The security organ of the Republic, a political guards of the Workers' Party of Korea and a mainstay of defending the revolution, is marking its 80th founding anniversary with pride in its glorious history.

The militant course of the state security organ coincided with the long ruling history of the WPK are shining with the worthy traces of loyalty and patriotism of the security soldiers who always played the vanguard role in the sacred struggle for firmly safeguarding the lifeline of the Korean revolution and the existence, prosperity and development of the Republic.

Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, paid a congratulatory visit to the Ministry of State Security of the DPRK on the occasion of the 80th founding anniversary of the state security organ on Nov. 18.

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un was accompanied by Jo Yong Won, secretary of the Central Committee of the Workers' Party of Korea, Kim Hyong Sik, department director of the WPK Central Committee, and Kang Yun Sok, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK.

When Kim Jong Un arrived at the Ministry of State Security, all the security soldiers raised stormy cheers of "hurrah", looking up to him who has developed the state security organ into a strong fortress for defending the socialist system and the people, which protects and firmly guarantees the line and policy of the WPK and the sovereignty of the DPRK and the political stability of society, both in name and in reality with his outstanding leadership.

Kim Jong Un was greeted by senior officials of the Ministry of State Security including Minister Ri Chang Dae.

The national flag of the DPRK was hoisted.

Kim Jong Un conveyed a congratulatory message to the Ministry of State Security marking its 80th founding anniversary.

All the security soldiers broke into loud cheers once again with strong emotion and boundless joy of having the honor and enjoying happiness in the presence of the father whom they longed for every day and night for sacred defence they spent with loyalty and merits at the outpost of defending the Party's line and cause.

Acknowledging the enthusiastic cheers, Kim Jong Un extended warm militant greetings to the security soldiers who have invariably followed the road of patriotism and loyalty, bearing in mind the revolutionary faith and obligation, pure loyalty and transparent class mission in the van of the struggle for defending the Party and the state.

He said that the WPK only wrote the pages of legendary transformations and victories unprecedented in history, although it has made an arduous and thorny journey accompanied by hard fights against hostile forces from the first step since its birth as the ruling party and it is unthinkable apart from the feats and brilliant merits of the security officers who have steadfastly followed the road of defending the revolution in the van of the class struggle.

The traces of loyalty our state security organ left in firmly preserving its character and nature as the security guards of the Party and firmly defending the victorious advance of the Korean revolution are brilliantly shining in the course of its long and proud struggle, he said, adding that the security organ of the Republic is, indeed, a reliable companion and trustworthy assistant of the Party.

He once again warmly encouraged all the officials and servicepersons of the security organ of the Republic who have defended the cause of the Party, socialism and people and the lifeblood and vibrant dynamism of the ever-victorious Korean revolution in the severe frontline of defence in their lifetime or generation after generation, regarding the noble name, the political defender of the Party, as their greatest honor.

Expressing belief that all the officers and servicepersons of the Ministry of State Security would fulfill their sacred and honorable responsibility and duty bestowed by the Party, state and people in future, too, he had a significant photo session with them.

All the participants renewed their firm will to become reliable red shields of the Workers' Party of Korea, genuine security soldiers of the Republic to build manifold bulletproof walls around the Party Central Committee and thus consolidate the revolutionary and class positions of the DPRK as firm as a impregnable fortress and resolutely defend the dignity and interests of the state. -0-

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Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Visits Ministry of Public Security

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, November 19 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Tuesday visited the Ministry of Public Security of the DPRK to congratulate and encourage the officers and men of the Public Security Forces on the occasion of the 80th founding anniversary of the public security organ.

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un was accompanied by Jo Yong Won, secretary of the Central Committee of the WPK, Kim Hyong Sik, department director of the Central Committee of the WPK, and Kang Yun Sok, vice-chairman of the Standing Committee of the Supreme People's Assembly of the DPRK.

When he arrived at the Ministry of Public Security, all the security personnel burst into enthusiastic cheers, looking up to him, the symbol of the mightiness of our Party and state and banner of all victories and glory, who is ushering in a new heyday of strengthening and developing the public security forces with his outstanding ideas and extraordinary leadership.

He was greeted respectfully by senior officials of the Ministry of Public Security including Minister Bang Tu Sop.

He extended warm congratulations to all the officers and men of the Public Security Forces on greeting the 80th founding anniversary on the militant journey of fulfilling their honorable mission of defending the revolution, social system and people, remaining faithful to the ideas and cause of the Party.

The national flag of the DPRK was hoisted.

He handed the congratulatory message to the Ministry of Public Security on its 80th founding anniversary.

The officials of the Ministry of Public Security extended boundless thanks to Kim Jong Un who reposed great confidence in and showed warm love to them on the occasion of the significant founding anniversary of the ministry so that they can invariably follow the road of victory and glory.

The valuable traces of the service personnel of the PSF who devoted their blood and lives to the struggle for defending the outposts of the grim revolution accompanying the serious class struggle are shining brilliantly in the history of the WPK which has dynamically led the socialist cause of Juche to victory, Kim Jong Un said, adding that in those sacred days the PSF have stood as a strong fortress around the WPK as befitting one of the two core forces of the DPRK without a moment's deviation.

Noting that it is the important mission of the public security organ of the DPRK to guarantee by law and arms the activities of the Party and the government who devote all their energies to defending Korean-style socialist system and promoting the people's wellbeing, he highly appreciated the feats performed by all the service personnel of the PSF who have carried forward the high revolutionary spirit, class consciousness and spirit of unconditionally serving the people as their noble ideological and spiritual qualities and successfully made the 80-year-long history as the Party's political guards and guardian of the socialist state and the people's government.

He called upon all the service personnel of the PSF to firmly arm themselves with the Party's idea of building public security consistent with the people-first principle, make a fundamental change and development in preparing the ranks to be the political and ideological elite, bolstering up their combat capability and carrying out their revolutionary tasks by displaying pure loyalty and making patriotic and united efforts and thus invariably add luster to their glorious tradition and honor.

Expressing belief that all the officers and men of the PSF remaining loyal to the leadership of the WPK would carry on the annals of service more worthwhile and glorious than the 80-year-long history, he had a meaningful photo taken with officials of the Ministry of Public Security.

At the end of the photo session, thunderous shout of death-defying defence the participants raised again out of their pledge of loyalty reverberated throughout the sky of November.

All the participants hardened their firm determination to redouble their efforts to fulfill the sacred mission of the Public Security Forces, cherishing the great trust and glory shown by Kim Jong Un all their lives and sharpening the treasured sword of the revolution and the red sword of the class, and thus reliably guarantee the victorious advance of the Juche revolution and the socialist cause. -0-

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Respected Comrade Kim Jong Un Pays Congratulatory Visits to Supreme Court and Supreme Public Prosecutors Office

Korean Central News Agency of DPRK

Pyongyang, November 19 (KCNA) -- Kim Jong Un , general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, paid congratulatory visits to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Public Prosecutors Office of the DPRK on Nov. 18 on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the founding of the judicial and prosecution organs.

The officials of the judicial and prosecution organs were filled with great joy and excitement of greeting the most honorable and glorious moment to be cherished by them all their lives at a time when they were looking back with pride upon the brilliant history in which they have staunchly defended the cause of our Party in the long historic journey with their worthwhile reputation as reliable legal defenders of the Party, the revolution, the socialist system and the lives and properties of the people.

The respected Comrade Kim Jong Un was greeted respectfully by senior officials of the Supreme Court and the Supreme Public Prosecutors Office on the spots.

When Kim Jong Un arrived, the participants broke into thunderous cheers of "hurrah!" with great emotion of receiving Kim Jong Un , the supreme representative of the mightiness and dignity of our great state, in their institutions.

There were ceremonies of hoisting the national flag of the DPRK.

Kim Jong Un conveyed congratulatory messages to the Supreme Court and the Supreme Public Prosecutors Office on the occasion of the 80th founding anniversary of the judicial and prosecution organs.

On the occasion of the significant founding anniversary of the prestigious law enforcement organs of the DPRK, he warmly congratulated and encouraged all the officials of the judicial and prosecution organs who are devoting themselves to carrying out the important revolutionary tasks of defending the state and the people with the sacred legal right granted by the Party.

He said that since the judicial and prosecution organs of the DPRK were founded as the fortress of securing the people's power and legal weapons for building a democratic, independent and sovereign state at the time of building a new Korea, they have developed into powerful law enforcement organs of our socialist state, adorning the whole course of 80 years with glorious merits true to the Party's ideas on Juche-oriented judicial and prosecution work.

The annals of our revolution, which brought about the precious victories and miraculous successes unprecedented in history, are clearly associated with the feats of the judicial and prosecution officials who have devoted themselves to accomplishing the socialist cause, sacrificing their all in the difficult legal struggle whether in grim days or in peaceful days, he said. He added that it is the great pride of our Party to have such an upright and powerful rank of law enforcement officials.

The period of comprehensive development of our state, which marks a great watershed in socialist construction with gigantic changes and steady leaps, also serves as a new heyday for the judicial and prosecution organs, he said, stressing the need for the officials of the judicial and prosecution organs to remain faithful to their class duty as defenders of the Party, the revolution, the country, the people and the socialist system and make tangible results in the work for the prosperity of the country and the well-being of the people, bearing deep in mind the heavy mission and responsibility they have assumed before the times and history.

Expressing expectation and belief that all the officials of the judicial and prosecution organs would further strengthen the socialist legal system by thoroughly applying the ideas of the Workers' Party of Korea and usher in a heyday of building Juche-oriented justice and thus continue to perform valuable feats and display the honor in the sacred struggle to firmly defend our ideology, system and single-minded unity, he had a meaningful photo session with them.

All the participants chanted the slogan of single-minded loyalty, reflecting the unshakable pledge to further glorify the honorable history and tradition of establishing solid legal foundations for building our dignified state under the leadership of the great Party and reliably guarantee by law the socialist construction which is developing onto a new stage of upsurge. -0-

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DEFENCE SECRETARY VISITS FORWARD LOCATIONS IN CENTRAL SECTOR

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Posted On: 17 NOV 2025 6:04PM by PIB Delhi

The Defence Secretary, Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, undertook a comprehensive visit to forward locations in the Central Sector from 15 to 17 November 2025.

At Pithoragarh, the Defence Secretary was briefed on major operational matters by the General Officer Commanding, Uttar Bharat Area and Commander 119 (I) Infantry Brigade Group on operational aspects.

During his visit to Navidang, he interacted with the concerned Battalion Commanders and Chief Engineer Project Hirak of the Border Roads Organisation (BRO). They apprised him on operational aspects and the progress of critical border infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing strategic mobility and strengthening National security. During the visit, the Defence Secretary was accompanied by Director General Border Roads (DGBR).

The visit underscored the Government's commitment to improving connectivity, boosting readiness, and ensuring robust infrastructure development in strategically vital border regions.

***

VK/GC

(Release ID: 2190903)

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Aide to the Russian President calls on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi

India - Press Information Bureau

Prime Minister's Office

They exchange views on strengthening cooperation in connectivity, shipbuilding and blue economy

PM conveys that he looks forward to hosting President Putin in India next month

Posted On: 18 NOV 2025 9:05PM by PIB Delhi

Aide to the President and Chairman of the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation, H.E. Mr. Nikolai Patrushev, called on Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today.

They exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the maritime domain, including new opportunities for collaboration in connectivity, skill development, shipbuilding and blue economy.

Prime Minister conveyed his warm greetings to President Putin and said that he looked forward to hosting him in India next month.

***

MJPS/ST

(Release ID: 2191450)

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Raksha Rajya Mantri chairs Industry Roundtable on Day-2 of his Dubai visit

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Encourages global and Indian firms to explore joint ventures & emerging opportunities for collaborations in India

Posted On: 18 NOV 2025 8:53PM by PIB Delhi

Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Sanjay Seth chaired an Industry Roundtable on the theme 'Defence Technology Collaboration and Manufacturing in India' on the second day of his visit to Dubai on November 18, 2025. A total of 50 global and Indian industries participated in the event. In his address, Raksha Rajya Mantri highlighted the strength of Indian defence manufacturing capabilities and expanding defence ecosystem. He encouraged the global and Indian companies to explore joint ventures and emerging opportunities for collaborations in India.

On the first day of his visit, Raksha Rajya Mantri held a bilateral meeting with his UAE counterpart Mr Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei on the sidelines of the Dubai Air Show. He emphasised the importance of interaction between the two sides through institutional mechanisms, participation in defence exhibitions and training cooperation. He urged the two sides to explore joint research and co-development & co-production in the defence sector.

Shri Sanjay Seth, later, inaugurated the India Pavilion where DPSUs and private industries like Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), DRDO, Corel Technologies, Dantal Hydraulics, Image Synergy Ekxplor, SFO Technologies and several defence start-ups have put up their stalls. He visited the stalls and was apprised of the modern technology and equipment on display.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also witnessed the performance of India Air Force's Surya Kiran Aerobatic team and Tejas in the Air Show.

Raksha Rajya Mantri also interacted with the diverse Indian community of UAE in Dubai. He commended the important contribution made by them as brand ambassadors of India.

A person holding a microphoneDescription automatically generated

The Dubai Air Show is a biennial event held in UAE. This year, over 1,500 leading exhibitors and more than 1.48 lakh industry professionals from 150 countries are participating in the event. The continued high-level participation from the Indian side demonstrates the growing strength of India-UAE bilateral relations.

***

VK/SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2191433)

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India-Germany High Defence Committee meeting held in New Delhi

India - Press Information Bureau

Ministry of Defence

Defence Secretary & State Secretary, German Ministry of Defence emphasise on the need for a closer defence partnership and industry collaboration

Posted On: 18 NOV 2025 6:19PM by PIB Delhi

Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the India-Germany High Defence Committee meeting with the State Secretary, German Ministry of Defence Mr Jens Plotner in New Delhi on November 18, 2025. They discussed a range of bilateral security and defence issues including priority areas for co-development & co-production of defence equipment.

The co-chairs reaffirmed commitment to enhance military-to-military cooperation with a focus on developing defence ties as a key pillar of the Strategic Partnership between India and Germany. They also exchanged views on the regional security situation and discussed intensifying bilateral exchanges including institution of military exercises. Germany will be participating in TARANG SHAKTI (multinational air combat exercise) and MILAN (multinational naval exercise) which is planned in 2026.

India is the 'First Responder' and 'Net Security Provider' for countries in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR). The Defence Secretary informed the visiting German delegation that India's approach to the region is guided by its vision of MAHASAGAR (Mutual and Holistic Advancement of Security and Growth Across Regions). India has been working closely with countries in the IOR on a range of areas from development partnership, defence and maritime security, capacity building and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. The German side acknowledged India's role in the Indian Ocean Region.

The two sides emphasised on the need for a closer defence partnership and connecting the industries of both nations, especially in the field of niche technology.

India and Germany have a long-standing relationship, which is underpinned by common values and shared goals. Both countries are celebrating 25 years of 'Strategic Partnership' this year. The importance of strengthening defence and security aspects of the relationship has increased manifold which reflects the mutual trust that has been nurtured across decades.

***

SR/Savvy

(Release ID: 2191312)

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SCO prime ministers reject West's anti-Iran stance, declare UNSC Resolution 2231 expired

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 3:22 PM

The prime ministers of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member states have concluded their 24th meeting in Moscow with a joint statement rejecting Western actions against Iran under the pretext of concerns over its nuclear program.

The closing statement by member states on Tuesday opposed the West's unilateral coercive measures, including economic sanctions, that violate the UN Charter and international law.

Leaders warned that such measures obstruct global cooperation and hinder the achievement of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals.

Delegations also highlighted the importance of preserving the spirit of inclusivity and consensus that underpinned the adoption of UN Security Council Resolution 2231, noting that under operative paragraph 8, its provisions have lost validity.

The United States and its European allies have imposed numerous sanctions on Iran over its nuclear program, claiming that the country seeks nuclear weapons.

Iran has repeatedly denied the allegation, citing regular IAEA inspections over decades that proved the peaceful nature of its nuclear activities, as well as Islamic teachings banning the development of weapons of mass destruction.

The parties signed a 2015 deal, the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), that lifted sanctions in exchange for confidence-building curbs on Iran's nuclear activities.

However, the deal was derailed by the 2018 US withdrawal and the failure of the E3 (Britain, France, and Germany) to fully abide by their commitments under the accord.

Iran and the United States held five rounds of talks earlier this year to explore a replacement for the 2015 deal, whose endorsing UN resolution was due to expire shortly, but to no avail.

On the eve of the sixth round of talks, Israel and the United States launched a 12-day campaign of aggression against Iran in June, killing hundreds of people and damaging the country's scientific and military infrastructure.

After the aggression, the E3 claimed they were activating the 2015 deal's so-called snapback mechanism to restore UN sanctions against Tehran just before the resolution was set to expire.

However, Iran, Russia, China, and some other countries have rejected the claim, arguing that the E3 first dishonored their commitments under the deal and cannot use it to prevent the resolution's expiration.

That stance was further supported by the SCO during Tuesday's meeting.

At the close of the summit, SCO prime ministers signed a comprehensive cooperation document covering economic development, transportation, and social support, underscoring the organization's drive to deepen integration among member states.

The document was also signed by Iran's First Vice President Mohammad Reza Aref, who attended the meeting at the head of a political delegation.

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Iran says willing to consider Russia-China mediation efforts on reviving IAEA cooperation

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 2:27 PM

Iran is prepared to consider mediation efforts offered by Russia and China aimed at reviving Tehran's cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), says a senior official.

Kamal Kharrazi, head of Iran's Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, made the remarks during an interview with Russian state-affiliated news media outlet RIA Novosti on Tuesday.

"Yes, if such a roadmap is proposed, we will consider it," Kharrazi said, when asked whether Iran sees Moscow and Beijing as potential mediators in developing new frameworks of cooperation with the IAEA.

His comments follow statements by Russia's top envoy in Vienna, Mikhail Ulyanov, who recently announced that Iran, Russia, and China held a trilateral dialogue on Iran's nuclear program on November 5.

Shortly afterward, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi held two phone calls with his Russian counterpart, Sergey Lavrov, discussing Iran's interaction with the IAEA and developments regarding its nuclear program.

Iran suspended cooperation with the IAEA after attacks by the United States on its key nuclear facilities in Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan in mid-June. The strikes were conducted in the middle of Israel's acts of aggression against Iran.

The attacks prompted Iran's Parliament to unanimously pass legislation requiring the administration to suspend all cooperation with the IAEA.

Iranian officials said IAEA Director General Rafael Grossi failed to uphold his legal obligations to protect Iran's nuclear facilities, and that his report paved the way for the acts of aggression.

On September 9, Araghchi and Grossi reached an agreement on practical modalities to resume cooperation after a meeting in the Egyptian capital of Cairo.

However, on October 11, Araghchi announced that Iran had suspended implementation of the Cairo agreement after the European TroikaBritain, Germany, and France invoked the so-called snapback mechanism to reimpose international sanctions against Iran.

Despite the tensions, Iran says it remains open to evaluating proposals for a new agreement with the IAEA, and that any final decision regarding the form and scope of cooperation with the IAEA lies with Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

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Araghchi: Caspian Sea as vital to Iran as Persian Gulf; ties with Russia 'strategic partnership'

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 10:33 AM

Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has underlined that the Caspian Sea is as strategically important to Iran as the Persian Gulf, noting that littoral countries have engaged in joint cooperation for years to address shared interests and concerns.

Speaking at the opening of the first international meeting of the governors of the Caspian littoral provinces in the northern Iranian city of Rasht on Tuesday, Araghchi emphasized that Iran's neighbors are a top priority, adding that the principle lies at the heart of the country's foreign policy.

He highlighted that Iran shares borders with fifteen countries, both on land and sea, and has particularly strong relations with nations in the Persian Gulf and Caspian Sea regions.

Araghchi noted that Iran enjoys "excellent" relations with all Caspian Sea countries, and has established strategic partnerships with some, including Russia.

"The Islamic Republic of Iran's relationship with the Russian Federation is a strategic partnership. Last year, a twenty-year-long-term cooperation agreement was signed between our presidents. Close political, economic, and international exchanges are underway between Iran and Russia," he said.

The Iranian minister also underscored the region's significance for energy, trade, and transit routes, noting that economic cooperation via the Caspian Sea is of extraordinary importance to all littoral countries.

He pointed out that tourism is another area of potential collaboration, highlighting that Iran's northern coastal provinces of Gilan, Mazandaran, and Golestan, as well as pilgrimage cities like the northeastern city of Mashhad, are major destinations for Iranians, which could attract visitors from neighboring Caspian countries.

The top diplomat also discussed the concept of "provincial diplomacy", stating that Iranian provinces are gradually becoming more active in international relations.

"This is the first conference on provincial diplomacy we are jointly holding with the provinces of neighboring countries. I believe it will be a valuable experience to expand it across [other] Iran's neighbors," he noted.

Future of Caspian Sea must be based on peace, win-win partnership: Deputy FM

Iran's Deputy Foreign Minister for Legal and International Affairs, Kazem Gharibabadi, also addressed the meeting, underscoring that the future of the Caspian Sea must be based on peace, cooperation, prosperity, and win-win partnerships.

The diplomat highlighted the importance of coastal provinces in all five countries "in managing the rich resources of the Caspian Sea, from the sea's valuable fisheries to vital energy reserves, from commercial ports to transit routes and international corridors," underlining the role of management and planning of all littoral states.

Gharibabadi underlined the need for proper management of the Caspian Sea as critical, stating, "As the world's largest source of sturgeon, the Caspian's fisheries are fundamental to regional food security. This requires scientific management, a concerted effort to combat illegal fishing, and joint stock restoration programsnone of which possible without full coordination among the coastal provinces."

He called for joint mechanisms to address climate challenges, marine pollution, crisis management, and ecosystem protection, and encouraged devising collaborative projects in fisheries, tourism, energy, environment, ports, and transit to transform the Caspian from a potential area of cooperation into a practical one.

Initiated by Iran to strengthen regional cooperation, the first meeting of governors from the Caspian Sea coastal provinces began its two-day summit in Gilan on Tuesday.

The event, held under the slogan "Caspian, a bridge of friendship and regional development," is hosting delegations from Russia, Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Turkmenistan, along with governors from Iran's northern and southern provinces.



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Iran Ready to Consider Russia, China Mediation in Renewing IAEA Cooperation

Sputnik News

20251118

TEHRAN (Sputnik) - Iran has expressed willingness to consider mediation efforts by Russia and China to restore its cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA), Kamal Kharrazi, adviser to Iran's Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei and head of Iran's Strategic Council on Foreign Relations, told Sputnik.

"Yes, if such a project is proposed, we will consider it," Kharrazi said when asked whether Iran views Russia and China as possible mediators in developing new forms of cooperation between Tehran and the IAEA.

Russia's Permanent Representative to International Organizations in Vienna Mikhail Ulyanov said earlier that Russia, China and Iran held trilateral talks on the Iranian nuclear dossier on November 5. Later, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi had two phone calls with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, during which they discussed Tehran's engagement with the IAEA and the Iranian nuclear program.

On October 11, Araghchi said that Iran had suspended the implementation of the Egypt-brokered agreement with the IAEA, which outlined the framework for Iran's cooperation with the agency, considering attacks on Iranian nuclear sites. This move followed the resumption of UN Security Council sanctions against Iran. At the same time, Tehran emphasized its readiness to consider proposals for a new agreement with the IAEA. However, the format of engagement with the agency is decided by Iran's Supreme National Security Council.

 Sputnik

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Japan-Indonesia Foreign Ministers' Working Dinner

Ministry of Foregn Affairs of Japan

November 17, 2025

On November 17, commencing at 7:30 p.m. for approximately one hour and twenty minutes, Mr. MOTEGI Toshimitsu, Minister for Foreign Affairs of Japan, held a working dinner with H.E. Mr. Sugiono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, who is visiting Japan to attend the Japan-Indonesia Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting ("2+2"). The overview of the working dinner is as follows.

At the outset, Minister MOTEGI welcomed Minister Sugiono to Japan Referring to the discussions held immediately beforehand at the "2+2" meeting, he expressed his desire to further strengthen cooperation with Indonesia as Japan's comprehensive and strategic partner, in a wide range of fields including economic field. In response, Minister Sugiono expressed his appreciation for Japan's hospitality and stated that he wished to continue working closely together under the broad cooperative relationship between the two countries. Regarding the bilateral cooperation, Minister MOTEGI stated that Japan intends to promote cooperation with Indonesia in various areas such as decarbonization and energy, critical minerals, disaster management and infrastructure, and improving the business environment. Minister Sugiono expressed his appreciation for Japan's cooperation over the years in a wide range of fields. The two ministers concurred on strengthening the Japan-Indonesia comprehensive and strategic partnership through promoting further cooperation. Regarding the regional and international affairs, Minister MOTEGI noted that a free and open international order based on the rule of law is under challenge in various parts of the world, and that it is increasingly important to advance efforts toward realizing a Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP). The ministers exchanged views on ASEAN centrality and unity, global governance, the establishment of a free and fair economic order, and others. Taking into account the discussions at the "2+2" meeting, the two ministers affirmed the importance of collaboration in addressing regional and international issues.

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Japanese officials voice their opinions after envoy's visit to China over Prime Minister Takaichi's erroneous remarks

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 18, 2025 11:51 PM

Multiple Japanese senior officials have voiced their opinions as Masaaki Kanai, director-general of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, wrapped up his visit in China on Tuesday. Kanai held consultations with the Chinese side regarding Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on the Taiwan question.

According to CCTV News, Kanai on Tuesday met with Liu Jinsong, director-general of the Asian Affairs Department of the Chinese Foreign Ministry, in Beijing. Around 2 pm, Kanai and his delegation left the Chinese Foreign Ministry.

At around 3:30 pm, Global Times reporters spotted Kanai leaving China via the Beijing Capital International Airport. However, Kanai did not answer any questions from the media at the airport.

After Kanai's meeting with Chinese officials concluded in Beijing, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi told Phoenix TV during a press conference on Tuesday that Japan's position on the Taiwan question remains based on the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement. Japan understands and respects China's position on Taiwan, and this policy has not changed, he said.

When pressed by the Phoenix TV reporter with the follow-up question: "Could you please clearly state which specific sentence in the Sino-Japanese Joint Statement Japan will Japan continue to abide by?" Motegi did not give a direct answer.

During the press conference, Motegi also said that "precisely because there are differences of opinion, it is important for both the government and private sectors to maintain multi-layered communication," TBS News reported on Tuesday.

Also at a press conference on Tuesday, Yuichiro Tamaki, leader of the Democratic Party for the People, called for a calm approach amid rising tensions between Japan and China over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks, saying, "the greatest concern is the division of public opinion within the country. Diplomatic relations must always be handled calmly, carefully, and cautiously," Mainichi Shimbun reported on Tuesday.

Tamaki also pointed out that he "has strong concerns" about the rising tensions between Japan and China over Takaichi's remarks on a potential "Taiwan emergency," adding that "both countries must make every effort to ensure that occasional military conflict never occurs," according to Mainichi Shimbun.

In response to a media inquiry on details of the consultations between Kanai and Liu on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said that on Tuesday morning, Liu held consultations in Beijing with Kanai.

During the consultations, China lodged stern representations with Japan once again over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan question, pointing out that Takaichi's fallacious statements seriously violate international law and the basic norms governing international relations, gravely undermine the post-war international order, and blatantly contravene the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan.

Takaichi's remarks fundamentally damage the political foundation of China-Japan relations, are of an extremely egregious nature and impact, and have aroused strong indignation and condemnation among the Chinese people, Mao said.

Mao said that China solemnly urges Japan to retract its erroneous statements, stop creating trouble on issues related to China, and take concrete actions to correct its mistakes and uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

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China solemnly urges Japan to retract erroneous remarks in meeting with Japanese official in Beijing: FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 18, 2025 03:46 PM

In response to a media inquiry on details of the consultations between Masaaki Kanai, the director-general of the Japanese Foreign Ministry's Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, with Liu Jinsong, director general of the Department of Asian Affairs of the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday, Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning said that this morning, Liu held consultations in Beijing with Kanai.

During the consultations, China lodged stern representations with Japan once again over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's erroneous remarks on Taiwan question, pointing out that Takaichi's fallacious statements seriously violate international law and the basic norms governing international relations, gravely undermine the post-war international order, and blatantly contravene the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan.

These remarks fundamentally damage the political foundation of China-Japan relations, are of an extremely egregious nature and impact, and have aroused strong indignation and condemnation among the Chinese people, Mao said.

Mao said that China solemnly urges Japan to retract its erroneous statements, stop creating trouble on issues related to China, and take concrete actions to correct its mistakes and uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations.

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Courtesy Call on Prime Minister TAKAICHI by Minister for Foreign Affairs and Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia

Ministry of Foregn Affairs of Japan

November 18, 2025

On November 18, commencing at 11:00 a.m. for approximately 30 minutes, Ms. TAKAICHI Sanae, Prime Minister of Japan, received a courtesy call from H.E. Mr. Sugiono, Minister for Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia, and H.E. Gen. (Hon.) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, Minister of Defense of the Republic of Indonesia. The overview the courtesy call is as follows:

At the outset, Prime Minister TAKAICHI welcomed the visit of Minister Sugiono and Minister Sjafrie and stated that the third Japan-Indonesia Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting ("2+2") was extremely timely as the security environment is becoming increasingly severe. Prime Minister TAKAICHI emphasized that strengthening Japan's relations with Indonesia is truly important in promoting the Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) as well as maintaining and strengthening a free and open international order based on the rule of law. Prime Minister TAKAICHI also expressed her desire to advance cooperation in a wide range of fields, including security and defense cooperation. In response, Minister Sugiono and Minister Sjafrie stated that they had meaningful discussions at the "2+2" and that close collaboration with Japan was important for Indonesia and they desired to advance the bilateral cooperation in concrete manners. Both sides agreed to further strengthen the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries, following the Indonesian Ministers' visit to Japan this time.

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Japan totally unqualified to seek permanent seat on UN Security Council: Chinese envoy

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 08:13, November 19, 2025

UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Sanae Takaichi's remarks on Taiwan are extremely erroneous and dangerous, a Chinese envoy said Tuesday.

"They constitute a gross interference in China's internal affairs and a serious breach of the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan," said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at the UN General Assembly's annual debate on Security Council reform.

"Such remarks are an affront to international justice, the post-war international order, and the basic norms of international relations, and represent a blatant departure from Japan's commitment to peaceful development," he said.

"Such a country is totally unqualified to seek a permanent seat on the Security Council," he added.

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Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister, Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar, meets the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Alexei Overchuk

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister Senator Mohammad Ishaq Dar met the Deputy Prime Minister of the Russian Federation, Alexei Overchuk, today on the sidelines of the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting in Moscow.

The Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister conveyed the greetings and good wishes of Pakistan's leadership to Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk and to the Russian leadership. He underscored the importance of enhanced high-level engagement between the two countries, noting that Pakistan attaches great significance to strengthening and deepening its relations with Russia across all areas of mutual interest, including political, trade, energy, connectivity, agriculture, industry, education, science and technology, information technology, people-to-people linkages, and tourism.

Deputy Prime Minister Overchuk fondly recalled his successful visit to Islamabad in September 2024, as well as his meeting with Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif on the margins of the SCO-CHG in Islamabad in October 2024. He noted Pakistan's tremendous potential to emerge as a regional hub for transit trade and connectivity. He also appreciated Pakistan's establishment of relations with Armenia, which he observed would contribute to strengthening Pakistan's ties with the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU).

Both leaders exchanged views on key regional and global developments and reaffirmed their resolve to further deepen cooperation at bilateral and multilateral fora, including the United Nations and the SCO.

Moscow

18 November 2025

341/2025

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Deputy Prime Minister/Foreign Minister leads Pakistan's delegation at the SCO Council of Heads of Governments (CHG) meeting, Moscow (17-18 November 2025)

Pakistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs

Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister (DPM/FM) Senator Muhammad Ishaq Dar led the Pakistan delegation to the Meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government (CHG), held in Moscow from 17-18 November 2025. He delivered Pakistan's national statements in two sessions of the CHG and engaged with other SCO leaders on the margins of the meeting.

The DPM/FM represented Pakistan in a joint call by the Heads of Government of SCO member states on President Vladimir Putin of the Russian Federation, who welcomed the heads of delegation in Moscow.

In his statement at the CHG Narrow Format (SCO members only) meeting, the DPM/FM reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to the "Shanghai Spirit". He outlined Pakistan's priorities, notably enhancing cooperation in connectivity, energy, transport linkages, logistics and infrastructure development. He encouraged member states to take steps towards promoting the use of national currencies for mutual settlements, and called for the establishment of an SCO Development Bank, an SCO Development Fund and an Investment Fund.

On regional politics, the DPM/FM underscored the need to initiate a comprehensive dialogue to address the full spectrum of regional issues. He stressed that stability in Afghanistan remains imperative for peace and stability across the region.

In his statement at the SCO CHG Expanded Format meeting, the DPM/FM reaffirmed Pakistan's commitment to building economic bridges through tangible actions. He emphasised the need for greater economic integration through trade, investment and digital advancement. In the humanitarian domain, he offered to share Pakistan's experience in disaster preparedness. He called for the modernisation of the SCO and the expansion of its global outreach by streamlining the use of English in its work. He proposed deeper engagement with Observer and Partner countries by involving them in project-based initiatives aimed at advancing shared goals. He also recommended leveraging the potential of the SCO Interbank Consortium to finance development projects in SCO countries. Furthermore, he highlighted the importance of building human capital and empowering youth by strengthening academic linkages and transforming the SCO University Network into a consortium for applied knowledge.

During the CHG Expanded Format, leaders deliberated on "the development of trade, economic, cultural and humanitarian cooperation within the SCO, including the involvement of Observer States and Partners, in the context of modernising the Organisation's activities and in light of the outcomes of the SCO Summit in Tianjin". The meeting was also attended by the Prime Minister of Mongolia, the Foreign Minister of Qatar, and representatives of Kuwait, Bahrain, Egypt and Turkmenistan, as well as heads of international and regional organisations including the CIS, EAEU, CSTO and CICA.

The Moscow SCO CHG considered and approved around a dozen decisions, documents and statements. The SCO leaders adopted a Joint Communique outlining the strategic direction for the SCO's future work in economic cooperation.

The CHG is the second-highest forum of the SCO, focusing primarily on cooperation among member states in the socio-economic, trade and financial sectors. Last year, the CHG was chaired by Pakistan and hosted in Islamabad in October 2024.

Moscow

November 18,2025

340/2025

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On 16-17 November 2025, twenty three khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan

Rawalpindi - November 18, 2025

No PR-365/2025-ISPR

On 16-17 November 2025, twenty three khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

On reported presence of khwarij, an intelligence based operation was conducted by the Security Forces in Bajaur District. During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location, resultantly eleven khwarij including kharji ring leader Sajjad @Abuzar were sent to hell.

In another intelligence based operation conducted in Bannu District, own troops successfully neutralized twelve more khwarij.

Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored kharji found in the area as relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision "Azm e Istehkam" (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

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On 15-16 November 2025, fifteen khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan

Rawalpindi - November 18, 2025

No PR-363/2025-ISPR

On 15-16 November 2025, fifteen khwarij belonging to Indian Proxy Fitna Al Khwarij were killed in two separate engagements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province.

On reported presence of khwarij, an intelligence based operation was conducted by the Security Forces in general area Kulachi, Dera Ismail Khan District. During the conduct of operation, own troops effectively engaged the khwarij location, resultantly ten khwarij including kharji ring leader Alam Mehsud were sent to hell.

In another intelligence based operation conducted in general area Datta Khel, North Waziristan District, own troops successfully neutralized five more khwarij.

Sanitization operations are being conducted to eliminate any other Indian sponsored kharji found in the area as relentless Counter Terrorism campaign under vision "Azm e Istehkam" (as approved by Federal Apex Committee on National Action Plan) by Security Forces and Law Enforcement Agencies of Pakistan will continue at full pace to wipe out menace of foreign sponsored and supported terrorism from the country.

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Spokesperson's Press Briefing (November 18, 2025)

Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Republic of Korea

Press Briefing

Spokesperson and Deputy Minister for Public Affairs Lee Jaewoong

November 18, 2025 14:30 KST

Good afternoon. Let me start today's briefing.

Vice Minister of Foreign Affairs Kim Jina will hold the ninth Korea-Mongolia Joint Committee Meeting with Chief Cabinet Secretary of the Government of Mongolia Sandag Byambatsogt in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, on November 19.

Mongolia, with which this year marks the 35th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, is one of Korea's Strategic Partners. One of the world's top ten resource-rich countries, Mongolia is also Korea's important cooperative partner for economic security.

During the forthcoming Joint Committee Meeting, Vice Minister Kim, together with her Mongolian counterpart, will discuss diverse areas of mutual interest, including substantive bilateral cooperation in economy, public healthcare, environment and development, among others.

Given the recent increase in the number of Korean visitors to Mongolia, the Vice Minister will request the Mongolian side's full support for the safety of the Korean residents in and visitors to Mongolia.

She will also explain the Korean government's approach toward North Korea and ask for the Mongolian side's cooperation for peace and stability in the region.

(A question-and-answer session followed.)



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Meeting with SCO Heads of Government

In the Kremlin's St Catherine Hall, Vladimir Putin held a meeting with the heads of delegation attending the SCO Council of Heads of Government meeting.

November 18, 2025

15:30

The Kremlin, Moscow

Russia's chairmanship of the SCO Council of Heads of Government ends in 2025. The Council met earlier today in Moscow under the chairmanship of Russia's Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin.

* * *

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, friends,

It is a great pleasure to welcome you all to Moscow.

Today, you have successfully concluded a regular meeting of the SCO Council of Heads of Government, outlining plans for our future joint work. This builds upon the foundations laid by the Tianjin Declaration and the SCO Development Strategy to 2035, which was adopted at September's SCO Summit in China.

We are united by a common objective: to strengthen the authority and influence of the SCO as one of the leading regional associations, both across the Eurasian continent and globally. In this endeavour, our governments have a vital role to play. Governments always have a special role when it comes to practical work. It is, after all, our governments - the teams under your leadership - who translate our shared ambitions into concrete, practical cooperation and who drive the expansion of the Organisation's multifaceted partnerships.

Throughout Russia's chairmanship of the Council this year, we have hosted a substantial programme of events. Nearly 30 ministerial and expert meetings, as well as forums involving business, public, and youth representatives, have been held in Moscow, St Petersburg, and other major Russian cities, and a wide range of mutually beneficial projects and cooperation programmes have been agreed.

Governments traditionally prioritise issues of economic cooperation, promotion and diversification of trade and investment. Coordinated efforts in these areas are already yielding tangible results.

For example, Russia's trade with SCO member states reached US$409 billion in 2024 and continues to grow. Of course, the largest share of this turnover is accounted for by our cooperation with the People's Republic of China, however, trade with other SCO member states is also growing.

It is important to note that the share of national currencies in commercial transactions between the Organisation's members is consistently increasing. For example, in our country's trade with SCO partners, this figure already exceeds 97 percent.

Stable and uninterrupted payment channels are becoming increasingly vital, particularly in the current volatile economic environment, marked by turbulence in the global markets, unilateral sanctions, tariff restrictions and wars.

At the Russian side's initiative, and with the support of its partners within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, steps are being taken to expand payment, settlement, and depository infrastructure. The agenda also includes consultations on the creation of a future SCO Development Bank, as well as on the mutual recognition of credit ratings and goods indicator systems.

Other Russian proposals on the establishment of a database of industrial investment projects within the SCO are also being implemented. The creation of such an instrument will expand cooperation in the industrial sector, facilitate joint development of production capacity, support import substitution, and promote the introduction of new technologies and digital innovations, including artificial intelligence. Ultimately, these efforts will contribute to strengthening the technological sovereignty of our countries in the core sectors of the economy.

It would be appropriate to continue our joint efforts to build an extensive and competitive network of logistics routes across the vast expanse of the SCO and Eurasia as a whole.

Russia, situated at the very heart of the continent and at the intersection of key trans-Eurasian transport corridors, is allocating significant funds to modernise its transport infrastructure. The volume of road, rail, and multimodal traffic passing through Russian territory is growing noticeably, with due consideration given to the utilisation of new promising corridors such as North-South and the Northern Sea Route. Today, incidentally, another nuclear-powered icebreaker has just been laid down.

Our country is also making a substantial contribution to maintaining stability in global energy markets. We are doing everything to ensure reliable supplies of energy resources to consumers, despite attempts from outside to negatively influence supply chains, and we count on closer coordination among all SCO partners in the energy sector, in line with the relevant roadmap adopted in Tianjin.

It is evident that the Shanghai Organisation could play a more significant role not only in deepening sectoral cooperation but also, more broadly, in fostering a favourable atmosphere on our shared continent for stable, progressive growth and multifaceted economic interaction. In practical terms, it could also facilitate the alignment of the numerous integration projects being implemented across Eurasia. This is precisely the aim of the Greater Eurasian Partnership concept proposed by Russia. The idea is to harmoniously combine integration processes within the Eurasian Economic Union, the Belt and Road Initiative put forward by our Chinese friends, and numerous similar projects involving the countries of the Shanghai Organisation.

Naturally, cooperation within the SCO framework is by no means limited to the economy, though this is undoubtedly the primary focus. Our organisation also actively contributes to strengthening peace and stability across Eurasia, countering a wide range of challenges and threats, and shaping a new balanced security architecture in Eurasia.

An equally important component of the SCO's activities is the development of humanitarian contacts and exchanges in the fields of culture, science, education, healthcare, environmental protection, and, of course, youth policy and sport. As I have said on numerous occasions, Russia is sincerely committed to the closest possible partnership with the SCO member states. I am confident that by acting in a coordinated and united manner, helping one another, we are capable of achieving truly impressive results in developing multifaceted cooperation among our countries.

Thank you for your attention.

<...>

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Meeting with Premier of the State Council of China Li Qiang

Vladimir Putin had a meeting with Premier of the State Council of the People's Republic of China Li Qiang.

November 18, 2025

16:20

The Kremlin, Moscow

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Mr Li Qiang,

I am delighted to meet with you again in Moscow.

We have just held a meeting with the participants of the Council of the Heads of Government of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation member states and discussed development prospects for this important and influential international platform.

Russia and China's close cooperation within this format contributes to the SCO's emergence as a pillar of the multipolar world order, the involvement of the Global South countries in its activities, and the formation of an open and non-discriminatory international trading system. I believe that this year's meeting of the SCO Council of the Heads of Government seamlessly complemented the efforts of our Chinese friends during their presidency, which successfully concluded with the summit in Tianjin.

I fondly recall my visit to that wonderful, modern, and beautiful Chinese city, as well as my in-depth discussions with my friend, President Xi Jinping, both in Tianjin and later in Beijing during the celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of China's victory over militarist Japan and the end of World War II.

Please, convey my warmest greetings and best wishes to the President of the People's Republic of China.

The comprehensive Russian-Chinese relations of partnership and strategic interaction, having entered a new era, are truly experiencing the best period in their history. They are built upon the principles of equality, mutual benefit, and mutual support on issues affecting each other's core interests, and are not directed against anyone.

The 30th session in the format of regular meetings between Russian and Chinese heads of government was recently held in Hangzhou and was very productive. Immediately upon his return, Mr Mishustin reported to me about the results of his detailed talks with you, as well as his meeting with President Xi Jinping. I am pleased to note that our governments, ministries, and agencies are working in close coordination to implement the full range of practical agreements reached at the highest level.

We highly appreciate your personal efforts, Mr Premier, and your personal contribution to this work.

I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate all our Chinese colleagues on the successful conclusion of the Fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee, which set forth the main guidelines for China's development in the next five years, to 2030. We are confident that all the goals set will be fully achieved. We know - and I personally know this well from my work with President Xi Jinping - that everything he sets out to accomplish is implemented.

Last year, we achieved the highest levels of mutual trade in the entire history of our bilateral relations. We will continue to develop trade cooperation in line with the approved long-term plans. It is essential to safeguard our trade and economic collaboration from adverse external influences. The implementation of a broad array of joint sectoral projects in energy, industry, space, and agriculture will elevate our partnership to a new qualitative level and reinforce its technological foundation. Undoubtedly, the training of qualified personnel demands attention. In this context, the designation of 2026-2027 as the Years of Education of Russia and China will prove highly advantageous. We have planned this initiative. In my view, it is both timely and exemplary.

Humanitarian exchanges are progressing positively. The cross Years of Culture are drawing to a successful close.

The decision by our Chinese friends to introduce a visa-free regime for Russian citizens will undoubtedly further expand contacts between our peoples. We appreciate this gesture of goodwill. In reciprocation, corresponding measures for citizens of the People's Republic of China visiting Russia will take effect in the nearest future. I am confident this will yield significant outcomes in both the economic and humanitarian spheres. In my opinion, it will serve as a distinctly positive boost to the advancement of our relations.

Thank you for your attention.

The floor is yours.

Premier of the State Council of China Li Qiang (retranslated): Thank you very much, Mr President,

It is a great honour for me to return to the splendid city of Moscow and to meet with you once again.

First and foremost, I wish to convey the heartfelt greetings and best wishes from President Xi Jinping.

Thanks to your attention and support, Mr President, the recent meeting of the SCO Council of the Heads of Government in Russia was conducted successfully. The Russian side undertook extensive work to prepare and hold this meeting, which ensured the attainment of positive outcomes, the fulfilment of set objectives, and the effective implementation of the decisions reached at the Tianjin summit. We extend our congratulations on this achievement. We stand ready to maintain close collaboration with you to foster the high-quality development of the SCO.

Under the strategic leadership of our countries' heads of state, the comprehensive partnership and strategic interaction between China and Russia in the new era continue to flourish. Since the outset of this year, President Xi Jinping and you, Mr President, have met twice, setting a clear trajectory for the deepening of China-Russia relations.

Confronted with an unpredictable and unstable international landscape, we are prepared to work alongside you, upholding the spirit of our enduring friendship, steadfastly adhering to the principles established by the two countries' leaders, deepening the alignment of our development strategies, broadening practical cooperation across all areas, and delivering tangible results for the prosperity and progress of our nations.

I am eager to hear your valuable insights.

Thank you, Mr President.

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Keel-laying ceremony for Stalingrad nuclear icebreaker

The President took part, via videoconference, in a keel-laying ceremony for the sixth serial multipurpose nuclear-powered icebreaker Stalingrad. The ceremony was held at the Baltic Shipyard in St Petersburg.

November 18, 2025

15:00

The Kremlin, Moscow

The ceremony was attended by Director General of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexei Likhachev, CEO of the United Shipbuilding Corporation Andrei Puchkov, Volgograd Region Governor Andrei Bocharov, Presidential Plenipotentiary Envoy to the Northwestern Federal District Igor Rudenya, and Minister of Industry and Trade Anton Alikhanov.

During the ceremony, Great Patriotic War veteran and participant in the Battle of Stalingrad Pavel Vinokurov handed over to Rosatom Director General Alexei Likhachev a capsule with soil from Mamayev Kurgan, the site of the most intense and bloody fights and the city's key defensive position during the Battle of Stalingrad. The capsule will be kept aboard the icebreaker Stalingrad.

The icebreaker Stalingrad will be the sixth serial vessel built under Project 22220. The first four, including the lead icebreaker Arktika and the three serial ships Sibir, Ural, and Yakutia, are already on duty in Arctic waters. The construction of two other vessels from this series - Chukotka and Leningrad - is underway. The Project 22220 icebreakers are equipped with state-of-the-art next-generation RITM-200 reactors. The icebreakers are 173.3 metres long, 34 metres wide, and 15.2 metres tall, boasting a capacity of 60 MW. They can travel at a speed of 22 knots in clear water and break through ice blocks up to three metres thick.

Russia is the world's only country possessing a nuclear icebreaker fleet which consists of 34 diesel and eight nuclear-powered icebreakers.

* * *

Excerpts from transcript of keel-laying ceremony for Stalingrad nuclear-powered icebreaker

President of Russia Vladimir Putin: Good afternoon, friends,

I am pleased to welcome you and to congratulate you on this major, landmark event: the laying, at the Baltic Shipyard, of a new nuclear-powered icebreaker, which will bear the proud name of Stalingrad.

This is another tribute to the memory and unbending courage of the defenders and residents of this stronghold on the Volga River, to the valour and bravery of the participants of the great battle that largely determined the outcome of not only the Great Patriotic War, but the entire Second World War and, without exaggeration, influenced the fate of humanity.

Today is a special day for laying the keel of a new powerful icebreaker. These days marked the turning point in the fierce fight for Stalingrad. The Soviet army launched an offensive operation, which culminated in the encirclement and complete defeat of the enemy's forces. From the banks of the Volga, our troops moved steadily on towards Victory.

I am confident that the new icebreaker Stalingrad will honourably bear this proud name. Working in the harsh Arctic conditions, making its way through the ice, it will become yet another symbol of the talent, strength, and creative energy of our people, of their ability to set ambitious goals and bring the boldest plans to life, and to withstand even the most difficult times.

Russia is actively and consistently developing its unique icebreaker fleet, adding modern equipment to it. Much credit for this undoubtedly goes to our remarkable shipbuilders, nuclear scientists, engineers, designers, workers and other professionals. Thank you for your hard work and your focus on achieving maximum results.

It is thanks to you that Russia is now the only country in the world capable of building a series of powerful and reliable nuclear-powered icebreakers. It is of fundamental importance that we are doing this using our own, Russian technologies.

For example, the icebreaker Stalingrad will be the sixth serial vessel under this project. The first four icebreakers - the lead icebreaker Arktika and the three serial vessels Sibir, Ural and Yakutia - are already successfully operating in the Arctic, piloting cargo vessels along the Northern Sea Route.

The construction of two more icebreakers in this series - Chukotka and Leningrad - is underway at the Baltic Shipyard.

There is a great deal to be done. I am confident that you will work methodically to meet the deadlines.

We will continue to build up the capacity of our icebreaker fleet despite the current difficulties and challenges, developing the national shipbuilding industry and laying down breakthrough scientific and technological groundwork.

The challenges we face are of truly historical significance. It is vital to consistently strengthen Russia's positions in the Arctic, making full use of the national logistics capacity and ensuring the development of the promising Trans-Arctic Transport Corridor from St Petersburg to Vladivostok.

It goes without saying that the comprehensive development of our Arctic cities and towns depends on icebreakers, high-ice-class vessels, as well as on infrastructure of our Arctic ports. Creating new jobs and improving living standards and the quality of life for our people are among our key priorities for years ahead.

In conclusion, I would like to wish success to the tight-knit team of the Baltic Shipyard, the staff of the United Shipbuilding Corporation, Rosatom and other companies involved in this project, as well as everyone else who is contributing to Arctic development and the strengthening and further advancement of Russia.

All the best.

Mr Likhachev, please.

Director General of State Atomic Energy Corporation Rosatom Alexei Likhachev: Thank you very much.

Mr President, colleagues, friends, veterans,

Mr President, you have already mentioned in your speech that we are laying down this nuclear-powered icebreaker at a momentous time. In these November days of 1942, the victorious offensive of Soviet troops at Stalingrad began, marking the turning point in the Great Patriotic War.

Shortly before that, on September 28, 1942, while fierce battles for the Volga stronghold were still raging, the State Defence Committee adopted a decision to organise work on uranium, effectively relaunching the atomic project in our country. Naturally, it is no coincidence that the operation for the Soviet offensive at Stalingrad was codenamed "Uranus."

Therefore, the name of the nuclear icebreaker - Stalingrad - is by no means accidental. It is a profound tribute to the memory of our heroic predecessors. In this year, the 80th anniversary of the Great Victory and the 80th anniversary of the atomic industry, we feel this particularly acutely, particularly strongly. Of course, we are determined to steadfastly continue their work, strengthening the power and might of Russia, ensuring its security, and developing peaceful nuclear technologies that guarantee our leadership in the Arctic region.

We are already passing on this experience to the younger generation. Today, here on the stocks, we have students from the Admiral Makarov State University of Maritime and Inland Shipping, the Shipbuilding College, participants of the Icebreaker of Knowledge expedition to the North Pole, and, of course, children - the children of employees of the Baltic Shipyard and Atomflot. These young people will carry on the immense work of developing Arctic shipping, consolidating our country's position as a great maritime power. In this anniversary year of the Great Victory, this link of times is especially symbolic.

Mr President, allow me to inform you that the current volume of traffic along the Northern Sea Route this year matches the record levels of 2024, while activity on the route is increasing, and there are many new achievements. Foremost among these is the record for transit shipments, which have reached 3.2 million tonnes.

We are seeing particularly strong growth in transit container cargo, with 23 international voyages already completed - 50 percent more than in the whole of 2024. The tonnage of container cargo has increased by 160 percent, reaching a record 400,000 tonnes.

It is very important to underscore that the first-ever regular international container transit service along the Northern Sea Route has been launched. In September of this year, a container voyage departed from the Chinese port of Ningbo through the Arctic, calling at ports in European countries.

Mr President, on behalf of all sailors of the Arctic Atomflot, I would like to thank you for the construction and modernisation of our country's nuclear icebreaker fleet, which is rightly a source of pride for Russia.

Today, as you mentioned, eight nuclear-powered icebreakers are in service in the Arctic, half of which - four - are new-generation vessels. Another four are under construction as per your instruction. This embodies our complete technological sovereignty in the creation and operation of advanced reactor systems for the fleet, which are crucial for the exploration of the Arctic. It is important to note that never before have so many icebreakers been built simultaneously, not even during the most prosperous Soviet times.

Mr President, you are now setting a new goal for us - to establish a trans-Arctic transport corridor based on the Northern Sea Route. This is a task of immense, even planetary, scale. Its solution will consolidate Russia's leadership in the Arctic, ensure the implementation of national projects in the high-latitude zone, and lay the foundation for the logistical sovereignty of the Russian Federation.

Thank you for your trust, Mr President. We will do everything to justify it.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you.

<...>

Speaker: Let us remember those to whom we owe the very opportunity to build the future. Pavel Vinokurov, a Great Patriotic War veteran and participant in the Battle of Stalingrad, is present at today's ceremony.

Mr Vinokurov, you have the floor.

Pavel Vinokurov: Mr President, distinguished guests,

As a participant of the defensive battles of Stalingrad, it is a great honour for me to take part in this significant event for our country. We fought for you, your children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren to always live under peaceful, cloudless skies. And today, looking at the powerful equipment and at the service personnel engaged in the special military operation, I see that the spirit of our people remains unbroken.

On behalf of the participants of the great Battle of Stalingrad, I would like to thank you for preserving the memory of the Great Patriotic War, of those who still live and those who died in it.

May this nuclear icebreaker, the Stalingrad, continue to steadfastly and courageously forge its path through the Arctic Ocean. Stay the course and remember: Russia is with you.

I present a capsule for eternal preservation; it contains sacred soil from Mamayev Kurgan, soaked with the blood of the defenders of the Fatherland.

Vladimir Putin: Thank you very much. Mr Vinokurov, thank you very much for your words.

I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude not only to you but to all your fellow soldiers who defended our Motherland and also did everything possible to rebuild it in the post-war years.

Thank you for mentioning the participants in the special military operation. They - and all of us - will always remember, just as you do, that Russia stands with us.

Thank you.

Alexei Likhachev: Of course, we will treasure this sacred relic. It will bless our future icebreaker and will be kept aboard.

<...>

Vladimir Putin: Colleagues, friends,

Once again, I would like to congratulate you on today's event.

It is symbolic that in the year of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, we are laying down a new mighty nuclear-powered icebreaker - one that will undoubtedly make a significant contribution to the development of the Northern Sea Route and to shipbuilding - and that we are giving it the name Stalingrad.

I am very pleased, and I would like to once again thank Pavel Vinokurov, a Great Patriotic War veteran and a participant in that battle, for taking part in today's event, in this ceremony. This demonstrates that the generation of the victors always remains in the ranks. And today, Pavel Vinokurov is here with us, fulfilling an important mission.

This vessel, this ship will proudly bear the name Stalingrad, the city which you defended, Mr Vinokurov, as well as our entire great Fatherland. It will carry out its noble tasks in a new, peaceful field, but, I am confident, it will do so with the same dedication and results as you and all frontline soldiers showed when defending our country and later, as I have already said, when rebuilding its economy in the post-war years.

I would like to thank all the participants in today's ceremony, and express hope that all our plans will definitely be fulfilled.

Thank you.

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Russian Navy and Myanmar Navy conduct MARUMEX 2025 exercise in waters of Andaman Sea

18 November 2025 00:29

The practical phase of the MARUMEX 2025 Russian-Myanmar naval exercise has been completed in the waters of the Andaman Sea.

The Russian Navy was presented on the drills by a ship detachment of the Pacific Fleet as part of the frigate Marshal Shaposhnikov, the corvette Gremyashchiy, and the tanker Boris Butoma. The Myanmar Navy is represented on the practical phase by the Muttama landing helicopter dock, the frigate Kyansittha, the corvette Tabinshwehti, and the submarine Tabinshwehti.

For two days, the Russian Navy and Myanmar Navy crews practised command and control of the forces during joint manoeuvring, search, detection, and tracking submarines of the mock enemy, as well as during combat exercises with artillery and anti-submarine weapons. Counter-terrorism groups of both countries will take part in inspection operations and practise the liberation of a ship captured by the pirates.

The main purpose of the exercise was to comprehensively develop and strengthen naval cooperation, as well as to train in ensuring the safety of civilian navigation and maritime economic activities.

The practical phase of the exercise was held in the waters of the Andaman Sea following the completion of the Pacific Fleet's ships business call at the port of Thilawa of the Republic of the Union of Myanmar.

Department of Information and Media Affairs of Defence Ministry of the Russian Federation

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Putin: Russia Rapidly Expanding Its Unique Nuclear Icebreaker Fleet

Sputnik News

20251118

Russia is actively and steadily expanding its unique icebreaker fleet, President Vladimir Putin said.

"Today, Russia is actively and consistently developing its one-of-a-kind icebreaker fleet and equipping it with modern vessels," Putin stated during the keel-laying ceremony of the Stalingrad nuclear icebreaker, held via video link.

The construction of nuclear icebreakers in Russia is being carried out using domestic technologies, Putin added.

"I am confident that the new icebreaker Stalingrad will bear this proud name with dignity. Working in the harsh Arctic conditions, blazing a path through the ice, it will become yet another symbol of the talent, strength, and creative energy of our people, their ability to set and implement the most daring plans, and to persevere in the most difficult times," the Russian president added.

Russia is the only country in the world capable of mass-producing reliable nuclear icebreakers, Putin added.

"Despite all the current difficulties and challenges, we will continue to expand the capabilities of our icebreaker fleet, develop domestic shipbuilding, and create breakthrough scientific and technological advances," Putin also said.

The Russian president also expressed confidence that construction of the Chukotka and Leningrad nuclear icebreakers will proceed smoothly and on schedule.

"It is important to consistently strengthen Russia's position, strengthen Russia's position in the Arctic, and fully realize our country's logistics potential," Putin said.

All plans for the development of Russia's nuclear icebreaker fleet will be fulfilled, Putin said.

"All our plans will certainly be fulfilled," Putin said at the keel-laying ceremony for the Stalingrad nuclear icebreaker via videoconference.

The Russian president also gave permission for laying of the keel plate of the Stalingrad nuclear icebreaker.

 Sputnik

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South African FM expresses readiness to host G20 leaders

People's Daily Online

(Xinhua) 14:21, November 18, 2025

JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- With just five days to go before the Group of 20 (G20) Leaders' Summit, South Africa is fully prepared to welcome world leaders to Johannesburg, South African International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola said Monday.

Briefing journalists on preparations ahead of Saturday's Summit, Lamola said everything remained "on track," with 42 countries having confirmed their participation.

Lamola emphasized that South Africa's role as the first African country to host the G20 has helped elevate African perspectives on the global stage, placing issues of inclusivity and inequality firmly in the spotlight.

Lamola said negotiations on the South African Declaration had already begun, expressing hope that a final declaration could be reached.

All G20 member states, excluding the United States, would be represented, according to the minister. The gathering will also include 16 guest countries and six countries representing Regional Economic Communities from Africa, the Caribbean, and East Asia.

Lamola also provided details about the three sessions that will take place over the two-day Summit, namely "inclusive and sustainable economic growth", "building a resilient world", and "a fair and just future for all." Discussions will span a wide range of issues, including trade, development finance, the global debt challenge, climate change, food systems, the just transition, critical minerals, decent work, and artificial intelligence.

Lamola said the country was confident that its G20 Presidency would leave a positive and enduring legacy. "It is our firm belief that the outcomes of the South African Summit will be ambitious and leave a lasting legacy for the cause of the African continent and the Global South beyond South Africa's historic G20 Presidency," he said.

The G20 Leaders' Summit is set to be held at the Nasrec Expo Center in Johannesburg, from Saturday to Sunday.

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Trump defends Saudi crown prince over Khashoggi's murder; suggests victim deserved the fate

Iran Press TV

Tuesday, 18 November 2025 9:25 PM

US President Donald Trump has touched off renewed criticism after downplaying the 2018 murder of renowned and outspoken Saudi journalist Jamal Khashoggi while hosting the kingdom's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office.

On Tuesday, Trump defended the royal when asked about CIA findings that the latter approved the operation that resulted in Khashoggi's death and dismemberment inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul that year.

"You're mentioning somebody that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didn't like that gentleman... things happen," he added in remarks denounced by human rights campaigners for seeking to validate the foul play and portray it as deserved comeuppance.

"But he knew nothing about it," the US president added, apparently referring to bin Salman.

The latter comments sidelined the crown prince's own admission in 2019, during which he said, "I take full responsibility as a leader in Saudi Arabia, especially since it was committed by individuals working for the Saudi government."

Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist and veteran Saudi commentator, was widely regarded by rights groups as a leading voice for reform and free expression in the Arab world.

Advocates said Trump's remarks amounted to an attempt to blur responsibility for a killing the CIA has assessed could not have occurred without high-level authorization. They also said the comments risked normalizing impunity.

The crown prince repeated earlier descriptions of the killing as "heinous" and a "huge mistake," saying Riyadh had improved its internal procedures to prevent similar incidents.

Trump, meanwhile, rejected questions over potential conflicts of interest stemming from his family's business ties to Saudi Arabia, saying he "left that success behind" when he entered office.

Observers, however, said Washington's attitude towards Riyadh suggests otherwise.

They cited Trump White House's leaving the kingdom's drawn-out record of repeatedly deadly instances of domestic repression out of the bilateral economic and military transactions.

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Combating ETIM is a core concern of China's counter-terrorism efforts; China, Syria to step up security coordination: FM

Global Times

By Global Times Published: Nov 18, 2025 06:11 PM

While responding to a question regarding Syria's reported plans to hand over Eastern Turkistan Islamic Movement (ETIM) militants to China, Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Tuesday that combating the ETIM is a core concern of China's counter-terrorism efforts. The Syrian side has pledged not to allow any entity to use Syrian territory to engage in activities that harm China's security, sovereignty and interests. China and Syria have agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in counter-terrorism and security fields and combat all forms of terrorism, Mao said.

A reporter asked at the routine press conference of the Chinese Foreign Ministry on Tuesday for China's response over Syria's reported plans to hand over ETIM militants to China, noting that Syrian foreign affairs chief Asaad Hassan al-Shibani visited China for the first time on Monday.

Regarding the meeting between the foreign ministers of China and Syria, Mao said the Foreign Ministry has released relevant information.

"ETIM is a terrorist organization designated by China and listed by the UN Security Council. Combating ETIM is a core concern of China's counter-terrorism efforts," Mao said.

The spokesperson said the Syrian side has pledged not to allow any entity to use Syrian territory to engage in activities that harm China's security, sovereignty and interests. China and Syria have also agreed to strengthen coordination and cooperation in counter-terrorism and security fields and combat all forms of terrorism.

During the Monday talks between Chinese and Syrian Foreign Ministers, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi raised the issue of the ETIM, per a readout released by Chinese Foreign Ministry. Wang called on the Syrian side to take effective measures and remove security obstacles to the steady development of China-Syria relations. Al-Shibani noted that he values China's security concerns, and will not allow any entity to use Syrian territory to engage in activities that harm China's national security, sovereignty, or interests.

The two sides issued a joint statement on Monday after the meeting, in which both sides stressed the need to combat all forms of terrorism and agreed to step up coordination and cooperation in counter-terrorism and security fields.

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Ministry of National Defense Issues Press Release Regarding the "U.S. Government's Congressional Notification Procedure for Arms Sales to Taiwan"

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/11/14

Ministry of National Defense Press Release

Time: 1240 hours, November 14, 2025

The Ministry of National Defense stated today (November 14) that the U.S. Government, on November 13 Eastern Time, completed the Congressional notification procedure for the Air Force case of "non-standard aviation spare parts and components" valued at USD 330 million, and published the information on the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) website. The sale is expected to formally take effect one month thereafter.

The Ministry of National Defense pointed out that, based on the Taiwan Relations Act and the Six Assurances, the United States continues to assist Taiwan in maintaining sufficient defensive capabilities, for which the Ministry expresses its gratitude. The provision of non-standard spare parts and components for F-16 and other aircraft types will not only help maintain Air Force combat readiness and consolidate air defense but will also strengthen defense resilience and enhance the capability to respond to PRC gray-zone incursions.



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Minister reiterates nationality rules in village chief dismissal case

ROC Central News Agency

11/18/2025 06:55 PM

Taipei, Nov. 18 (CNA) Interior Minister Liu Shyh-fang () said Tuesday that the law leaves "no room for interpretation" in the case of a village chief in Hualien County removed from her post for holding People's Republic of China (PRC) nationality.

Teng Wan-hua () was elected chief of Xuetian Village in Fuli Township in 2022 but dismissed from the post on Aug. 1.

She later appealed, and on Oct. 29, the Hualien County government's Appeals Committee said that it had reversed this decision.

Liu told reporters on Tuesday that Article 20 of the Nationality Act requires all elected public officials to renounce any non-Republic of China (ROC) nationality within one year of taking office.

She said the Ministry of the Interior (MOI) relies on this legal basis when directing local governments on how to handle removals from office.

Liu added that Taiwan's current constitution maintains the same restriction for all elected officials.

The minister said the MOI has not yet received the written appeal decision from either the Hualien County government or the Fuli Township Office.

Teng, aged around 50, was born in China's Sichuan Province. She came to Taiwan and married a Taiwanese national 28 years ago and obtained a Taiwanese national identification card 17 years ago.

In January, the MOI verified that five incumbent village chiefs nationwide hold PRC citizenship and sent letters instructing township and city offices to handle the matter in accordance with the Nationality Act.

When Teng was removed from her post by the Fuli Township Office in August, she became the first village chief in Taiwan to be dismissed for failing to renounce her Chinese citizenship.

(By Lin Ching-yin, Chang Chi and James Thompson)

Enditem/ASG

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PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

ROC Ministry of National Defense

2025/11/18

PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan

1.Date

6 a.m. Nov. 17 (Mon.) to 6 a.m. Nov. 18 (Tue.) (UTC+8)

2.PLA activities

13 sorties of PLA aircraft, 7 PLAN ships and 1 official ship operating around Taiwan were detected as of 6 a.m. (UTC+8) today. 7 out of 13 sorties crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered Taiwan's southwestern ADIZ. ROC Armed Forces have monitored the situation and employed CAP aircraft, Navy ships, and coastal missile systems in response to detected activities.

1141118_PLA activities in the waters and airspace around Taiwan [Open a new window]

1141118_PLA air activities in the vicinity of Taiwan [Open a new window]

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Minister Doughty Speech at the UK-EU Parliamentary Partnership Assembly Plenary - 17 November

Speech

Stephen Doughty, Minister of State for Europe, North America and the Overseas Territories, outlines how the UK is strengthening relationships with the EU and Europe to deliver on security and defence priorities.

From: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and Stephen Doughty MP

Published 18 November 2025

Location: London

Delivered on: 17 November 2025 (Transcript of the speech, exactly as it was delivered)

Well thank you very much, Chair, and it's a great pleasure to follow my good friend Pedro and see so many friends around the room from both the UK and the European Parliament, but also devolved assemblies and parliaments as well. And coming from Wales in the United Kingdom, and representing a constituency there, it is particularly important that this assembly is able to bring together all those voices, and I know that it does so very, very powerfully.

I wanted to thank you for the warm welcome. I know you've just heard from my colleague, Nick Thomas-Symonds, some of us see us as a bit of a double act - we're both from Wales, we look very, very similar, although I've grown a beard recently to distinguish myself. We're regularly on panels and events together, and hopefully what we will say will come together as sweetly as Welsh singing, that you'll know we take great pride of in our country.

But, joking aside, the reason why Nick and I keep turning up together at different events, and attending different consultations and assemblies such as this, but also speaking together publicly, is that we are united by a clear purpose - which is enhancing relations with our colleagues across Europe, as part of the reset that the government pursued since our election last year. And I'm glad to report that I feel that is going extremely well.

We have had a very, very successful year across multiple fronts, and I really do want to commend both our colleagues in the parliament who have supported that, but also of course the team in the Commission, and my colleagues across different government departments. Because this is a team effort to try and take a new course in the relations between the United Kingdom and the European Union in a new era, and one which is defined by many of the geopolitical and economic challenges, and social challenges, that Pedro set out.

I wanted to reflect on three key themes in my remarks today: firstly, the importance of rebuilding trust; secondly strengthening our security; and thirdly, tackling other shared challenges. Each of them is essential if we are to going to deliver for our citizens.

I wanted to start with the first of rebuilding trust and co-operation. Because I think one of the real hallmarks of our work in the past year has been rebuilding those personal relationships and getting back around tables together. Whether than was my own experience of attending the EU informal foreign ministers meeting just a few weeks ago, in Denmark, at the Gymnich, and sitting alongside David and others, and sitting around the table as a trusted friend and partner, tackling some of the challenges that our continent faces. Whether it's the engagement that we've had on a whole series of issues, particularly notably our work under the Security and Defence Partnership which I will come onto, really crucially important work on Ukraine, on hybrid threats, on the Western Balkans, on the Indo-Pacific.

It is also in the nature of the individual relationships we've built - whether it's with senior officials in the EEAS, or in the Commission, or indeed in the Parliament, and the way that we are using those relationships to take forward our shared objectives. And as the Prime Minister said at the EU Summit in London, "This reset is about building a pragmatic, ambitious partnership with Europe - one that delivers security, prosperity and trust for our people."

And of course, we have coupled that with building relationships with individual member states as well - I've been on extensive travels across the continent, rebuilding partnerships, and just in recent weeks have been to discuss shared challenges at EU and bilateral level with Spain, with Greece, with Romania - that's just in the last three weeks.

Pedro mentioned the fantastic work we've done to achieve a political agreement on Gibraltar, which was down to incredibly hard work on both the UK and EU, and Spanish and Gibraltar teams, and I think it sets a new course with huge benefits. And it's also been the unseen stuff, the stuff that doesn't get all the attention in the headlines every week, but that new spirit of cooperation between our officials and between our excellent civil services, in finding solutions on key challenges that we face, particularly in the security and defence space.

And I think on that, I wanted to come onto our second pillar, which is strengthening our practical cooperation on security and defence. And I would first begin by saying, and you would expect me to say this, but of course NATO remains the cornerstone of the UK's defence partnerships, and our partnerships with the EU make an important and parallel contribution to that, and in some cases overlapping contribution.

I see European security as made of many, many different pillars: our relationship between the UK and the EU, our NATO partnerships, the work of groupings such as the JEF, and our work in other organisations such as the Council of Europe and the OSCE. And these things need not stand in contradiction to each other - they should stand in complement to each other, and I have certainly seen that reflected across the last year.

I am very, very proud of our commitments to European security and defence in the United Kingdom, particularly through NATO - and indeed, many members of my family members served in those operations over many decades, whether in the British Army of the Rhine in Germany, or in the Balkan conflicts. So this is something that is very deep and personal to me. And I am proud to say that the UK will continue working with our Allies to deter aggression and promote stability.

Just a few weeks ago, I had the pleasure of welcoming the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group in Crete, with our Minister for the Armed Forces Al Carns, as they returned to European waters. And of course, there are other important engagements taking place this week with regards to the security of the Mediterranean and beyond. The Strike Group's work with European partners is a clear signal of our commitment to a safer, more secure region. And of course, to top all of that off has been our Security and Defence Partnership.

You've heard from Nick on that - but let me really stress that we are working to make that Partnership a reality. Four key pillars, as I've said: hybrid cooperation, the threats to our very democracies, how our work can intersect with the work that the EU is doing on democracy shields, the work that we are doing to deter Russian and indeed other hostile state interference in our democracies, in our societies, to tackle sabotage, cyber attacks, the activities of foreign intelligence services - many, many different issues that we face. And of course, disinformation and division-creating in our societies and politics. Crucially, that work to support Ukraine and deter Russian aggression.

Thirdly, to ensure we have a strong dialogue in understanding our relationships in the Indo-Pacific, and crucially on the Western Balkans - an area where we still see some significant challenges but also huge opportunities and potential for peace and stability and economic progress.

It was a real privilege to be with EU counterparts around the table as we hosted the Western Balkans Summit - some of the key meetings, the Foreign Ministers' meeting at Hillsborough in Northern Ireland, and also the Leaders' Summit which we held at Lancaster House just a few weeks ago. So those for me are very, very tangible examples of UK-EU cooperation on foreign policy.

Last month, I had the pleasure of joining Pedro and indeed the Foreign and Defence Secretaries for the first Foreign and Security Policy Dialogues with the High Representative, Kaja Kallas, and I think that shows again just how serious we are taking this. And I can tell you those discussions and what come out of them are incredibly fruitful - we share many, many similar views and visions, and many, many similar ways in which we can align our work going forward.

Of course, nowhere is our cooperation more vital than in responding to Russia's illegal, barbaric invasion of Ukraine. Together, the UK and EU have imposed some of the toughest sanctions, and it was welcome that the US recently joined us in recent action against Russia's largest oil firms. And over the summer, our decision with the rest of the G7 to lower the oil price cap further cut Putin's revenues and ability to wage that war.

Of course, sanctions alone are not enough. We are working closely with the Commission, EU partners and the G7 to unlock frozen Russian sovereign assets to support Ukraine's war effort, including vital air defences. Pedro mentioned our work through the Coalition of the Willing, which has been so important. And it is very, very clear to me that it is not just about the support that we offer directly to Ukraine - militarily, financially, diplomatically and in humanitarian or in important support to their energy infrastructure over this winter in the face of barbaric bombardment - but also about how we choke off the Russian war machine.

We all have a responsibility on that in Europe, to understand whether we are doing enough, particularly in the spheres of energy and other areas, to prevent them getting that resource which is killing civilians, destroying cities, and devastating Ukraine. We all have a responsibility to work on that closely together.

Of course, supporting Ukraine and ensuring European security means strengthening our own defence capabilities. European allies need to step up fast to boost our defence industrial capacity across the board. We are leading the way here, investing in new defence partnerships with EU member states, including France and Germany, and many others, but also outside - with Norway, with Turkey and others.

These, and future collaborations with Poland, with Turkey and others show our determination to build a safer Europe together. So, we welcome efforts and we welcome the intent from the Commission, from the EU, to step up to enhance the EU's defence production.

But we've got to make sure that this helps us work together with other countries and doesn't break up defence industry and capabilities at a crucial time. We've built that carefully together - and especially now, Europe needs to stay united and send a strong signal that we are united both in our capacities and our intent to defend our continent, and I very much hope that the ongoing negotiations on UK participation in SAFE that Pedro referred to can reach a successful conclusion. We're making progress, and I am confident we can reach an agreement that strengthens our collective defence and supports Ukraine.

Of course, security goes much broader than defence. There are many topics I could touch on, but I would particularly highlight the work that we are doing to tackle serious and organised crime, and also illegal and irregular migration - for which ordinary people in our countries are paying the price.

Not only do our public services feel the strain, but vulnerable people are being exploited by criminals, by cruel smuggling gangs. And as the Prime Minister put it over the summer - we cannot solve a challenge like this by acting alone. It requires joint solutions, and that's very much been a part of my engagements and visits at all levels with European partners over recent weeks and months, to understand from each other how we can work together on those issues.

So we particularly welcome the Commission's announcement that they intend to develop new dedicated sanctions powers, as we have done, in a world first, to target people traffickers and those fuelling this vile trade in human misery across our continent. And it is clear to me that given the chains, given the networks, given the huge routes that these people do this through, that we have to be cooperating with European partners to achieve delivery on that as we tackle irregular migration together but also the serious and organised crime that underpins it, and that blights our communities in so many other ways.

Of course, there are many, many other areas I could go into, many other parts of the continent and indeed the world - whether that's on North African security, whether that's on the prospects for peace in the Caucasus, in Armenia and Azerbaijan, whether it's our work together in the High North, whether it's our work ensuring the security of our communities in the Eastern Neighbourhood more broadly - we have very many challenges out there, but we have very many opportunities too together. And I'm confident that we have built a strong foundation over the past year.

It's been testament to both the governments involved and the executives involved, but also to the tireless work of parliamentarians. I took part in many of these different assemblies and groupings in the past, and have had the pleasure of spending time in and around the European Parliament, around our devolved parliaments and assemblies, and of course here, as a Member for 13 years, and I know it's in the partnerships in this room that we build new solutions, new ideas, and new solidarity to tackling the threats that we face.

Thank you very much for having me today, and enjoy the debate and discussion.

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PM meeting with President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi of Egypt: 18 November 2025

Press release

The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi today.

From: Prime Minister's Office, 10 Downing Street and The Rt Hon Sir Keir Starmer KCB KC MP

Published 18 November 2025

The Prime Minister spoke to the President of Egypt Abdel Fattah El-Sisi today.

They strongly welcomed the vote of the UN Security Council last night, which endorsed President Trump's peace plan for Gaza. They agreed that implementation must now follow as quickly as possible - including the establishment of the International Stabilisation Force and more aid flowing in.

Discussing the appalling suffering in Sudan, they stressed the need for ongoing international co-operation. The UK stands ready to support a transition to a civilian-led government, the Prime Minister added.

The leaders also discussed ways to strengthen the UK-Egypt relationship further in future.



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Estonia allocates 3.5 million for Starlink systems for Ukraine under the IT Coalition

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

17 November, 2025, 6:02 PM EET

Estonia has approved the provision of 3.5 million to Ukraine for the procurement of Starlink satellite systems. The equipment will strengthen the stability and protection of communications for Ukrainian units, particularly those operating on the front line.

The procurement will be carried out through the IT Coalitionan alliance of 17 partner nations that supports the development of modern digital infrastructure for the Ukrainian military.

"Reliable satellite communications enable service members to stay connected and operate high-tech systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles. This is fundamental to combat effectiveness and saving lives. We are grateful to Estonia and our partners in the IT Coalition for their consistent support, which directly strengthens our Defence Forces," said Oksana Ferchuk, Deputy Minister of Defence of Ukraine for Digital Development, Digital Transformation, and Digitalization.

This year, Estonia has already delivered military and technological assistance to Ukraine worth approximately 0.3% of its GDP. The support encompasses training programmes, the procurement of equipment, and the development of IT solutions.

The IT Coalition is one of the Capability Coalitions within the framework of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group (Ramstein format). The Coalition supports the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the Ministry of Defence of Ukraine in the domains of IT, communications, and cybersecurity. Current members of the Coalition include Belgium, Denmark, Ireland, Iceland, Spain, Italy, Canada, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands, Germany, the United Kingdom, Finland, Sweden, and Japan, with Estonia and Luxembourg serving as lead nations.

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Ukraine - PATRIOT Air Defense System Sustainment

NEWS | Nov. 18, 2025

Media/Public Contact: T_Outreach_PM@state.gov

Transmittal No. 25-91

WASHINGTON, November 18, 2025 -- The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Ukraine of PATRIOT Air Defense System Sustainment and related equipment for an estimated cost of $105 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress.

The Government of Ukraine has requested to buy sustainment related articles and services for the PATRIOT air defense system, including the upgrade of M901 launchers to M903 configuration; classified and unclassified prescribed load lists and authorized stockage lists for ground support equipment; other necessary services, ancillaries, spare parts, support, training, and accessories; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $105 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a partner country that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.

The proposed sale will improve Ukraine's ability to meet current and future threats by further equipping it to conduct self-defense and regional security missions with a more robust local sustainment capability. Ukraine will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be RTX Corporation, located in Arlington, VA, and Lockheed Martin, located in Bethesda, MD. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of approximately five additional U.S. Government and fifteen U.S. contractor representatives to the European Combatant Command for the duration of up to one month to support training and periodic meetings.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.

All questions regarding this proposed Foreign Military Sale should be directed to the State Department's Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and International Security, Political-Military Affairs Outreach, at T_Outreach_PM@state.gov.

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Norway to increase support for Norwegian People's Aid's mine clearance activities in Ukraine

Government of Norway

Press release | Date: 18/11/2025

Mines and other explosive objects are scattered across large areas of Ukraine and are disrupting vital agricultural activities. This is affecting not only Ukraine but also other countries that rely on Ukrainian agricultural products.

Norway is increasing its support for Norwegian People's Aid's mine clearance operations in Ukraine by NOK 30 million this year. These operations provide Ukrainian farmers with safe access to their agricultural land and enable local communities to resume their livelihoods.

'Norwegian People's Aid is a global leader in the use of mine detection dogs. I am pleased that we are now able to increase our support for NPA's mine clearance activities in Ukraine,' said Minister of International Development Asmund Aukrust.

On Tuesday, Mr Aukrust visited a training centre for mine detection dogs and their handlers, established jointly by Norwegian People's Aid and the State Emergency Service of Ukraine (SESU). The centre is located in the Sumy region of Ukraine, close to the front line.

Humanitarian mine clearance is a priority area in Norway's assistance to Ukraine. Mine action is crucial in order to protect Ukrainian civilians and civilian infrastructure. As a result of Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine, roughly one-third of Ukrainian territory - an area the size of Norway's Vestland, Innlandet and Trndelag counties combined - is estimated to be contaminated due to mines and other explosive ordnance. The World Bank has estimated that close to USD 30 billion is needed for humanitarian mine action in Ukraine.

Mine detection dogs are used in combination with drones and other high-tech equipment, demining machines and manual demining tools. This new funding is part of a larger allocation being provided now at the end of 2025 to support the efforts of Norwegian NGOs in Ukraine.

Norwegian NGOs are working together with the Ukrainian authorities and international humanitarian mine clearance organisations to clear mines and unexploded ordnance from large areas of Ukraine.

'Mine clearance activities are dangerous, but this work is vital to prevent innocent people from being killed or maimed for life,' said Mr Aukrust.

'Mine clearance operations are essential to Ukraine's reconstruction and future economic development. These efforts are also important in terms of increasing global food security,' said Mr Aukrust.

Norway has committed to providing more than NOK 700 million to support humanitarian mine clearance activities in Ukraine in the period from 2022 to 2025. This funding is being channelled through the UN system and NGOs, such as Norwegian People's Aid.

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Zelenskyy Heads To Turkey Amid Burgeoning Energy Sector Corruption Scandal

By RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service November 18, 2025

Ukraine's president said he will head to Turkey for possible talks with the chief White House envoy involved in talks to end Russia's nearly four-year-old war on Ukraine as the country reels from a corruption scandal.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy's visit, planned for November 19, comes amid a series of international travels, including to France, where he secured a verbal agreement to acquire scores of French Rafale fighter jets.

He was in Spain on November 18 where the two countries agreed to launch a joint project to supply long-range target-detection radars, and prior to that, the Ukrainian leader visited Greece, where a deal on gas supplies was signed.

"We are preparing to intensify negotiations, and we have worked out solutions that we will offer to partners. Bringing the end of the war closer with all our might is Ukraine's first priority," Zelenskyy said in a post to Telegram.

News reports said Zelenskyy would meet with Steve Witkoff, the White House's lead envoy for negotiations to try to end the Ukraine war. The Kremlin said no Russian officials would be present.

No face-to-face talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow since the two sides met in Istanbul in July.

Far-Reaching Corruption Scandal

Zelenksyy's travels coincide with a snowballing corruption scandal, which is shaping up as the worst political crisis he's faced since his election in 2019.

The scandal concerns allegations that funds earmarked for building defenses to protect Ukraine's vulnerable energy infrastructure from Russian air attacks were siphoned off in the form of kickbacks to political insiders.

The allegations burst into public last week when Ukraine's two leading anti-corruption agencies published evidence detailing their findings.

Among those implicated were Tymur Mindich, an old friend and former business partner of Zelenskyy.

Mindich fled Ukraine for Poland on November 10 hours before authorities launched raids in connection with their investigation, law enforcement officials told Schemes, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service. That prompted critics to allege he had been alerted ahead of the action.

Semen Kryvonos, the head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU), told RFE/RL's Ukrainian service on November 18 that work was under way to build case to seek Mindich's extradition from Israel, where he holds citizenship.

Extradition from Israel "is not an absolutely impossible story," Kryvonos said.

"As a rule, suspects do not sit in one place, they want to travel, visit European countries. Therefore, all measures must be taken to ensure that this person is on the international wanted list, so that the relevant law enforcement agencies and Interpol have the appropriate orientation to detain this person in the event of crossing and arriving in the territory of another country."

The revelations have already resulted in the resignations of the energy minister and the justice minister.

Last week, the investigative agencies announced the arrest of a top official of a subsidiary of Energoatom, the state-owned nuclear company, on bribery allegations. And in June, a deputy prime minister, Oleksiy Chernyshov, was charged with corruption.

On November 18, the Supreme Anti-Corruption Court remanded Chernyshov in custody for 60 days while setting bail in the amount of just over 51 million hryvnias ($1.2 million).

Zelenskyy has not been implicated in the case. Energoatom said it was fully cooperating with the probe.

Anti-Corruption Protests In Ukraine

Over the summer, Zelenskyy sparked an uproar when he backed a measure that would have sharply reduced the independence of the two investigative agencies: Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office and NABU.

After rare wartime street protests, Zelenskyy backed down.

Kryvonos told RFE/RL that if it weren't for the protests, the case "wouldn't have happened. It would have been destroyed for sure."

On November 18, a Ukrainian lawmaker alleged that the investigative records include a code-named person who is the head of Zelenskyy's presidential office.

The lawmaker, Yaroslav Zheleznyak, said the records showed Andriy Yermak allegedly directing unnamed officials to investigate officials with the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine.

Yermak did not immediately respond to requests for comment from RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service.

The allegations have touched a nerve among Ukrainians who are exhausted after nearly four years of Russia's all-out invasion. Ukrainian officials have raced to bolster defense for the country's energy infrastructure, to keep the population from freezing or sitting in the dark during the cold winter months.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-zelenskyy-energy- scandal-corruption-turkey-war-talks/33594741.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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Danube Tanker Fire From Russian Drone Strike Extinguished, Romania Says

By RFE/RL's Romanian Service November 18, 2025

Ukraine's president said he will head to Turkey for possible talks with the chief Romanian authorities said the fire on an LPG tanker on the Danube River that marks the border with Ukraine has been extinguished after a Russian strike on the vessel sparked the blaze and forced the evacuation of several towns in the area.

Colonel Daniel Petrov from the Emergency Situations Inspectorate in the Tulcea region said on November 18 that some residents have been allowed to return to their homes after being evacuated on the weekend, though some are still being kept away as the risk of an explosion on the fuel-laden ship remains.

"Only the village of Plauru, which is located about 200 meters from the site of the event, remains under the effect of the evacuation plan," Petrov said.

The liquid petroleum gas tanker, called the Ordina, caught fire following a reported Russian drone strike at a port on the Ukrainian side of the Danube River early on November 17.

The attack sparked evacuations on the Romanian side of the river amid fears of explosions or further attacks in the area.

Romania's Defense Ministry said its radar monitoring and surveillance systems detected and tracked targets in Ukrainian airspace near Tulcea County where Plauru lies.

While the ministry said there were no unauthorized aircraft intrusions into Romanian airspace, Russian attacks on Ukrainian ports in the Danube region have triggered several alerts in the NATO member.

Russian drone incursions over Romania and Poland, along with Russian military jets entering Estonian airspace, has led NATO to launch its Eastern Sentry initiative to bolster air defenses.

The European Union's executive, meanwhile, approved last month a five-year defense road map that features plans for a "drone wall" to be fully functional by the end of 2027.

The European Commission plan says Russia and Belarus represent "the greatest threat," citing repeated violations of EU member states by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

The Ordina was sailing under a Turkish flag and had a crew of 16. All were evacuated safely.

It had been anchored in the Ukrainian port of Ismail since November 12, according to marinetraffic.com.

Source: https://www.rferl.org/a/danube-tanker-fire-russian- drone-strike-extinguished-romania-ukraine/33594740.html

Copyright (c) 2025. RFE/RL, Inc. Reprinted with the permission of Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, 1201 Connecticut Ave., N.W. Washington DC 20036.

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With Platonovka Secured, Russia Commands Vital Seversk-Liman Road

Sputnik News

20251118

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Capturing the village of Platonovka in the Donetsk People's Republic (DPR) allows Russian troops to fully control the Seversk-Krasny Liman road, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"The liberation of the village northwest of Siversk enables Russian military units to fully control the Seversk-Krasny Liman road, depriving the enemy of a vital logistics route, and significantly complicating the predicament for Ukrainian troops in the city," the ministry said in a statement.

Earlier in the day, the ministry said that Russian forces had taken control of Platonovka in the DPR.

 Sputnik

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Russian Forces Liberate Tsegelnoye Settlement in Kharkov Region - MoD

Sputnik News

20251118

MOSCOW (Sputnik) - Russian forces took control of the settlement of Tsegelnoye in the Kharkov region, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"The settlement of Tsegelnoye in the Kharkov region has been liberated," the ministry said in a statement.

At the same time, Russia's Battlegroup Vostok took control of the settlement of Nechayevka in the Dnepropetrovsk region, the ministry added.

Russia's Battlegroup Tsentr has eliminated more than 455 Ukrainian military personnel in the past 24 hours, the Russian Defense Ministry said on Tuesday.

"In total, in the area of responsibility of Battlegroup Tsentr group of forces, the enemy's losses amounted to more than 455 servicepeople, a tank, eight vehicles and an artillery piece," the ministry said in a statement.

Russia's Battlegroup Zapad has eliminated over 220 Ukrainian servicepeople and Battlegroup Vostok has eliminated more than 350 Ukrainian soldiers, the ministry added.

The Russian armed forces have also hit Ukrainian energy and railway infrastructure facilities, as well as a military echelon carrying armored vehicles, the statement read.

Russian forces eliminated up to 275 Ukrainian military personnel in the Krasnoarmeysk (Pokrovsk) direction over the past day, the Russian Defense Ministry said.

"Over the past day, up to 275 servicepeople and a tank were destroyed in the Krasnoarmeysk direction," the ministry said in a statement.

The Russian armed forces also repelled 6 attacks by Kiev from Grishino area in the Donetsk People's Republic aimed at unblocking the encircled Ukrainian group, killing up to 30 Ukrainian soldiers, the ministry said, adding that another attack was repelled in the area of the Blagodatovke settlement in the Kharkov region.

In the area of Kupyansk in the Kharkov region, Russian troops continue to destroy encircled formations of the Ukrainian armed forces, the statement read.

 Sputnik

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Historic agreement between Ukraine and France: 100 Rafale fighter aircraft, SAMP/T air defense systems, missiles, and aerial bombs

Ministry of Defence of Ukraine

18 November, 2025, 9:59 AM EET

At the air base in the French city of Velizy-Villacoublay, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President of France Emmanuel Macron signed a Declaration of Intent on Cooperation in the Acquisition of Defense Equipment for Ukraine. This historic agreement is not only a sign of support for our country, but also a step towards modernizing our Armed Forces.

The document provides for the potential procurement from France of 100 Rafale F4 fighter aircraft by 2035, eight SAMP/T air-defense systems comprising six launchers each, together with air-defense radars, air-to-air missiles, and aerial bombs. This strategic agreement will span ten years from the start of next year.

It also provides for the possibility of technology transfer and joint aircraft production with localization in Ukraine.

In addition, Ukraine and France will co-produce interceptor drones and develop critical technologies and components suitable for integration into Ukrainian unmanned systems. The implementation of joint projects between the Ukrainian and French defense industries will commence this year.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Emmanuel Macron also discussed the prospects of the SAFE program for joint weapons production, the potential allocation of part of its funds for the procurement of Rafale aircraft, the application of the ERA instrument to address defense requirements, and decisions concerning the use of frozen russian assets to support Ukraine's defense.

In addition, during the meeting between the Presidents of Ukraine and France and representatives of defense companies, specific details of technological cooperation were discussed, and the course was set for jointly strengthening the industrial and technological potential of Ukraine and France.

France will also provide Ukraine with a new package of military assistance by the end of this year.

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Spain Contributes to the PURL Initiative and Allocates Funds Through the SAFE Instrument - Volodymyr Zelenskyy Following the Meeting With Pedro Sanchez

President of Ukraine

18 November 2025 - 22:34

At the Moncloa Palace, the official residence of Spain's Head of Government, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez in one-on-one and extended formats.

The Head of State thanked Spain for its unwavering support for Ukraine, for Ukrainians, and for our independence since the very beginning of Russia's full-scale war.

"Spain helps our defense. And I am especially grateful for the decision you, Pedro, made regarding the Hawks and for the weapons that have helped us defend against Russian assaults," said the President.

During the meeting, a great deal of attention was devoted to defense cooperation. The President emphasized that Spain consistently implements the bilateral security agreement, which ensures confidence in the annual support of EUR 1 billion. Pedro Sanchez also announced that Spain will contribute EUR 100 million to the PURL initiative, provide an economic package of EUR 200 million, including support for energy, and allocate over EUR 200 million through the SAFE instrument.

"Today, we communicated with Spanish defense companies. I want to thank them. We had a very productive discussion. Ukraine is preparing a project to supply, among other things, long-range detection radars, which could significantly strengthen our capabilities," added Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Furthermore, Spain is preparing a new defense aid package worth EUR 300 million, which will include 40 missiles for the IRIS-T air defense systems. The Head of State noted that this will make a substantial difference for Ukraine and expressed his gratitude for the decision.

Another key topic during the meeting was the situation on the battlefield and in diplomacy. Spain supports the necessary pressure on Russia to end the war.

"This includes sanctions, our European efforts against the Russian tanker fleet, and our work regarding Russian assets, which must be fully used to defend against Russian aggression," the President said.

The Prime Minister of Spain assured further support for Ukraine from his country and highlighted the determination of all the Ukrainian people in their fight for freedom.

Before the official talks, Pedro Sanchez met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Reina Sofia National Art Center in Madrid as a sign of solidarity and support for Ukrainians. There, the Prime Minister showed the President one of the paintings by Spanish artist Pablo Picasso - Guernica, the famous anti-war art manifesto of the last century. The painting depicts the suffering of civilians during the bombing of the town of Guernica in April 1937.

"I believe this image is very important for us - Picasso's Guernica is a universal symbol, a symbol of the barbarity of war. We also recalled here that the painting was shown in Spain only after Spain gained freedom and democracy. I am confident that the same will happen in Ukraine; it will happen. I hope it will be as soon as possible," said Pedro Sanchez.

Also, in the presence of Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Pedro Sanchez, five bilateral documents were signed: a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, European Union and Cooperation of the Kingdom of Spain and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine on Russian Disinformation; Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in the Field of Tourism between the Ministry of Industry and Tourism of the Kingdom of Spain and the State Agency for Tourism Development of Ukraine; a Letter of Intent for Signing an Agreement on Technical and Financial Cooperation between Ukraine and Spain; a Memorandum of Understanding between the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Business of the Kingdom of Spain and the Ministry of Economy, Environment and Agriculture of Ukraine on Mechanisms for Bilateral Economic and Financial Cooperation; and a Memorandum of Understanding on industrial cooperation in the security and defense sector between the Spanish Companies Escribano and Tecnove and the Ukrainian company Praktyka.

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Statement by the President of Ukraine During the Joint Press Briefing With the Prime Minister of Spain

President of Ukraine

18 November 2025 - 21:22

Distinguished Prime Minister, dear Pedro!

Esteemed attendees!

Ladies and gentlemen!

Our teams!

Esteemed journalists!

Dear people of Spain!

First of all, I want to thank you for your support - support for Ukraine, unconditional support. Most importantly, support for our people and our independence since the very beginning of the full-scale war. And this is principled support.

Spain helps our defense. And I am especially grateful for the decision you, Pedro, made regarding the Hawks and for the weapons that have helped us defend against Russian assaults. These were critical decisions. You know, as time passes, people forget how difficult it was to get through the winter during blackouts. And in such moments, dark and very challenging moments, you always remember friends who gave you light - simply because they are such bright people. And you are among them, as is your country and the people of Spain. We are deeply grateful for that.

Today, we focused closely on our defense cooperation. And in the face of ongoing Russian attacks, Ukraine truly values Spain's readiness to continue providing assistance. Thank you.

Spain consistently implements our bilateral security agreement, which the Prime Minister already mentioned today. And this ensures confidence in annual support. EUR 1 billion each year - it's a strong support. We are grateful for Spain's willingness to make the contribution we have agreed on today, EUR 100 million to the PURL initiative - a program that allows us to purchase air defense missiles for our protection.

We discussed various challenges. Undoubtedly, one of the most complex aspects is the challenges facing the energy sector following Russian strikes - and Spain has expressed readiness to help us. I thank you for this economic package of EUR 200 million, including support for energy. We have also reached an agreement that Spain will allocate more than EUR 200 million through the SAFE instrument for joint defense efforts with us. This has a real impact and is crucial for the future. It also sets a strong example for other European states.

Today, we also communicated with Spanish defense companies. I want to thank them. We had a very productive discussion.

Ukraine is preparing a project to supply, among other things, long-range detection radars, which could significantly strengthen our capabilities. We saw it today. This is a Spanish product, truly one-of-a-kind. And we will try to put all this into practice, try it in a real war.

We are ready for joint production of precision-guided weapons. I am thankful for the new defense aid package, which includes air defense missiles. This is a major shortage for us during the winter, a major shortage. And here is a specific package - 40 missiles for the Iris-T air defense systems. The total package amounts to EUR 300 million, as Pedro already mentioned. This will make a real difference. Thank you.

Together with our partners, we are ensuring protection for people, for our communities, and therefore for the entire European way of life. Russian aggression remains concentrated in Eastern Europe and must be stopped right there. This is possible, but only through unity.

The Prime Minister and I discussed the situation on the battlefield and the situation in diplomacy. Spain supports the necessary pressure on Russia to end the war. This includes sanctions, our European efforts against the Russian tanker fleet, and our work regarding Russian assets, which must be fully used to defend against Russian aggression. And this matters to all of us in Europe, to prevent Russia from spreading war further across our continent, as well as in regions neighboring Europe - the Middle East and the countries of Africa. International relations require peace and stability, and that is only possible with guaranteed security - guaranteed absence of war.

I thank the Prime Minister once again. I sincerely thank Spain for caring for our people who are here in Spain, whom you have hosted and supported. We are very grateful to you.

Of course, there are still steps we need to take. We will continue to intensify our diplomatic efforts. It is important to feel, at the same time, the constant support behind us. Support from our partners, support of our unity, the strength of our shared understanding that the war must end - and must end with dignity. This is very important to us.

Thank you once again, dear Pedro!

Thank you to all Spanish people for standing with us.

Glory to Ukraine!

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President Took Part in a Spanish-Ukrainian Technology Meeting with Heads of Spain's Leading Defense Companies

President of Ukraine

18 November 2025 - 14:55

In Madrid, President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy took part in a Spanish-Ukrainian technology meeting dedicated to expanding defense cooperation. The meeting was held at the facilities of the Indra Group with the participation of Spain's Minister of Defense Margarita Robles.

Representatives of Spanish defense companies demonstrated to the Head of State the equipment they produce: anti-drone systems, turrets, aerial and ground drones, long-range detection radars, and munitions.

The manufacturers provided an overview of their technologies, production capacity, the potential applications of their equipment and its technical characteristics.

The meeting included discussions on potential defense cooperation and joint projects. The President emphasized that Ukraine is interested in such cooperation with Spain.

"I will speak with Prime Minister Sanchez about how to strengthen our defense and our industries - both Ukraine's and Spain's. The more bilateral ties we build with countries of the European Union, the more integrated we become with Europe," Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized.

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Volodymyr Zelenskyy Held a Meeting with the Heads of Both Chambers of Spain's Cortes Generales

President of Ukraine

18 November 2025 - 13:03

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting with Spanish parliamentarians - Speaker of the Congress of Deputies Francina Armengol and President of the Senate Pedro Rollan.

The Head of State thanked both chambers of the Cortes Generales for supporting Ukraine's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and for all the decisions they have adopted in support of our country.

The President briefed them on the situation at the front and Russia's attacks on civilians, apartment buildings, and energy infrastructure. Therefore, strengthening air defense remains among Ukraine's key needs - additional systems and missiles for them. Volodymyr Zelenskyy also emphasized that Ukraine is interested in cooperation with Spanish defense companies.

The parties also discussed opportunities under the PURL initiative and the SAFE instrument, and how they can help strengthen Ukraine's warriors.

Separate attention was given to the continuation of humanitarian and energy assistance, as well as support for the joint path of Ukraine and Moldova toward membership in the European Union.

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True Security Council Reform Crucial to Regaining Public Trust, Improving United Nations Global Image, Speakers Tell General Assembly

Meetings Coverage

General Assembly / Plenary

Eightieth Session,

44th & 45th Meetings (AM & PM)

GA/12731

18 November 2025

The United Nations has a slim window of opportunity to earn back public trust and burnish its global image  which is too often tarnished by the paralysis of its 15-member Security Council  the General Assembly heard today, as delegates warned that the Organization is widely judged by that most-headlined organ's failure to end wars, prevent atrocity crimes and keep up with today's emerging challenges.

"[This] is a moment of reflection, action and leadership to make this Organization, our United Nations, fit for the twenty-first century," said AnnalenaBaerbock (Germany), President of the eightieth session of the General Assembly. Today's debate comes at a time when the UN is undertaking a process of renewal, namely through the proposed "UN80" reform initiative, aimed at making the Organization more efficient, effective and responsive. A year after calls to reform the Security Council were enshrined in the landmark Pact for the Future, the Assembly's 2025 high-level week saw widespread calls for urgent efforts to make that organ more inclusive, transparent, efficient, democratic and accountable.

Noting that she recently appointed two Co-Chairs of the Intergovernmental Negotiations process on reform  the permanent representatives of the Netherlands and Kuwait  to advance progress as a priority issue, she urged Member States to submit new reform proposals or to refine existing models, with a view to a "conciliated model that builds upon convergences". Broad agreement already exists on the need for reform and on the principles that should guide it, she said. While change cannot happen in a matter of days, "we must show that progress is possible".

Better Representation Is Moral and Political Imperative

Throughout the ensuing debate, some 60 delegations took the floor to elucidate their views on whether, how and how quickly the Security Council should be changed. Speakers widely agreed on the need for reform, noting that the organ's structure has remained the same since the Second World War  even in the face of rapidly evolving threats to peace and security. While they voiced a wide array of opinions on the details of that process, many warned that, without an update, the Council risks stumbling even lower in public esteem.

"The eightieth anniversary year of the UN provides a historic window of opportunity for true reform of the Security Council," said the representative of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, speaking for the "L.69 Group"  a "diverse, pro-reform group of developing countries" driven by the principles of justice, sovereignty and equity. She described the need for enhanced representation of under- or unrepresented regions as both a "moral and political imperative", warning: "We cannot afford further delay [...] at this crucial juncture, as it will have serious consequences on a system that has already been in a free-fall of trust."

"Within and outside the United Nations, the widespread assessment is that the Organization has not delivered as it should have, it is ineffective and it faces major challenges," said Brazil's representative, also speaking on behalf of Germany, India and Japan  known as the "Group of 4". Many of those negative perceptions stem from the Security Council's repeated failures. "Reforming this principal body [...] will go a long way in making the UN fit for purpose and in changing the public perception of its utility and effectiveness."

'Geopolitical Manoeuvrings' Stymie Council's Ability to Address Major Peace and Security Threats, Especially in Middle East

A range of delegates throughout the debate struck similar tones, warning that, while today's complex threats to peace and security are not beyond the Council's mandate, powerful countries remain too easily able to limit its capacity to intervene. Guyana's representative, on behalf of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), said "geopolitical manoeuvrings" often paralyse the Council's action "at the peril of lives and livelihoods".

"After eight decades, our Organization is going through profound changes, and the need for introspection is greater than ever," said Namibia's delegate. Emphasizing that a lack of political will "has kept us where we are for decades", he called on world leaders to demonstrate both the courage and foresight needed to make the UN more relevant and representative of all. The representative of Romania, echoing some of those points, described a reformed Council as "proof of credibility" for all nations and a "vote of confidence in the UN Charter".

"Recent regional and global developments have made it clear  the architecture established 80 years ago is no longer fit for today's challenges," agreed the representative of Algeria. The Council's structural shortcomings have often limited its ability to address major peace and security issues, particularly those in the Middle East. Besides improving the Council's credibility, legitimacy and efficacy, he stressed: "Broader geographic diversity would enable better understanding of the root causes of conflicts and their solutions."

Bahrain's delegate, speaking for the Arab Group, agreed, pointing out that Middle East was involved in most of the cases in which the veto has been cast in recent years. The Arab Group deserves permanent representation in an expanded Council due to its "political and cultural specificities", he stressed, declaring: "Our countries must take part in meetings that concern us."

Calls to Limit the Veto Power

Meanwhile, the representative of Italy, speaking on behalf of the "Uniting for Consensus" group and echoed by the representative of Turkiye, called for "a reform for all, not for a few". He highlighted growing convergences across the intergovernmental negotiations, such as broad agreement taking shape around a rotating seat for small island developing States. He joined many other delegates throughout the debate in rejecting any expansion of the veto power, and "at minimum", its limitation in cases of mass atrocities and war crimes.

The representative of France agreed with other speakers that the Council's ability to act matters at a time when faith in institutions has been shaken. "A reformed Council is one in which the veto is used responsibly," he stressed, agreeing with calls to limit that power in cases of mass atrocities and spotlighting an initiative developed by his delegation, alongside Mexico, to that end. Liechtenstein's delegate, meanwhile, listed several instances  in the Middle East, Ukraine and Sudan  where the Council continues to fall short, due largely to the use of the veto, and welcomed related initiatives aimed at to recalibrating the balance between the Council and the General Assembly.

Global South 'Bridge-Builders' Need Greater Voice

Citing another critical example  the climate crisis  where "a single veto can halt action" while front-line States "stand outside the door", was Maldives' representative. Small island developing States, representing one fifth of the UN's membership and custodians of the world's oceans, remain without a dedicated voice on the Security Council. Such stark inequity reveals that "promises of sovereign equality stop at the Council's threshold", he stressed, advocating for a dedicated, rotating seat for small island developing States and joining other speakers in stressing: "The veto must go."

Striking a different tone were both the representatives of Cuba and the Russian Federation. The latter, who welcomed the onset of a more multipolar world where the Global South's voices "are growing ever louder", welcomed efforts to make the Council more representative of developing countries in Asia, Latin America and especially Africa. However, he said the organ must remain compact and nimble, and its current permanent members must not lose any of their current prerogatives. That includes the veto power, without which "the UN would have met the same regrettable fate as the League of Nations", he said.

Several speakers praised the Council's elected membership category, describing its exclusive expansion as the most constructive way forward. Costa Rica's delegate drew attention to the "transformative power" of elected members, who bring diverse perspectives to complex matters, due to their elected status, remain both accountable to the wider UN membership and sensitive to global concerns. "Give the bridge-builders"  the Council's elected members  "more bridges to build", she stressed.

Permanent Seats for Africa Key to Correcting Historical Injustice

A range of speakers throughout the debate, including the representatives of the United Kingdom and Sierra Leone  who spoke on behalf of the African Group  insisted that Africa's underrepresentation on the Council is a critical historical injustice that must be addressed as both a priority and a "special case". Demanding no fewer than two permanent Council seats  with the veto power, if it is to be maintained  and five additional non-permanent seats for Africa, the latter declared: "This is not merely a question of proportional representation; it is about correcting a structural and historical injustice."

Venezuela's representative, speaking on behalf of the Group of Friends in Defense of the UN Charter, pointed out that about 70 per cent of the matters taken up by the Security Council affect Africa. Calling for a reform that enables the continent to play a stronger, more equitable and more meaningful role, he nevertheless warned: "Reform should not lead to an increase in the representation of a regional group which is already overrepresented."

The representative of China, underlining the need to "maintain the right direction of reform", said the process should be compatible with the multipolarization of the world and the collective rights of the Global South. "It is especially important to right the historical injustices suffered by Africa, and make priority and special arrangements for Africa's demands," he stressed.

High Time' to Move to Text-Based Intergovernmental Negotiations

While delegates broadly supported the Intergovernmental Negotiation process, several voiced frustrations over discussions that have been ongoing with no concrete agreement for decades. The representative of Iceland, who also spoke on behalf of Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden, stressed that it is "high time" to move from discussions to text-based negotiations, while Indonesia's delegate agreed that the negotiation process "cannot continue its merry-go-round discussions". India's delegate struck a more pointed tone: "Any objective analysis of the discussions up to now would make it clear that the current format has delivered nothing, adopted nothing and reconciled nothing."

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Mineros S.A. (TSX: MSA, OTCQX: MNSAF, BVC: MINEROS) ("Mineros" or the "Company") today announced a series of management and board changes designed to strengthen its leadership structure and support the Company's next phase of growth.

The Company is pleased to announce the appointment of Daniel Henao as President and Chief Executive Officer, effective today, following the resignation of David Londono from those positions. Mr. Henao brings extensive experience across the precious metals value chain, including exploration, project evaluation, acquisitions, development, operations, and refining. He has led multiple mining transactions and projects in diverse jurisdictions with a focus on sustainability, innovation, safety, and regulatory excellence. Prior to his appointment, Mr. Henao stepped down from the Company's Board of Directors.

The Company noted that adjustments to the ownership structure over 2024 and 2025 have prompted a reassessment of executive roles and strategic priorities. Departing leaders will support a structured transition over the coming weeks to ensure continuity for all stakeholders.

"We remain committed to maintaining stability and advancing our core mission throughout this period of evolution," said Mr. Henao. "Our focus is on delivering value to our stakeholders while positioning Mineros for long-term success".

The Company also announces that David Splett will step down as Chief Financial Officer effective January 2, 2026. Sergio Chavarria, currently Finance Manager, will serve as Interim Chief Financial Officer. Mr. Chavarria has held senior finance roles with Mineros since 2018 and previously served as Senior Audit Officer at Deloitte. He holds an MBA from EAFIT University and a degree in economics from the National University of Colombia.

In addition, Mineros is strengthening its technical and growth leadership with three new appointments, who will report directly to the CEO:

Maria Vallejo Garcia has been appointed Vice President, Growth and Business Development, effective today. Ms. Vallejo is a mining engineer with a strong background in mineral economics, resource estimation, mine planning, and optimization technologies. She is a P.Eng in Ontario, a Fellow of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (FAusIMM), and holds degrees from McGill University and the National University of Colombia. She has held senior roles at Vista Gold, Mining Plus, Barrick Gold, Waterton Global, and AngloGold Ashanti, and has contributed to the advancement or evaluation of more than 100 mining assets.

Carlos David Rios Restrepo has been appointed Vice President, Exploration, effective December 1, 2025. Mr. Rios is a geological engineer with deep expertise in exploration, resource expansion, and technical analysis. He is a Fellow of the Society of Economic Geologists (SEG), a member of the Australasian Institute of Mining and Metallurgy (MAusIMM), and has played a key role in significant discoveries and resource growth across multiple projects.

Marcela Castillo will be appointed as Vice President of Sustainability. Her previous role was Sustainability Manager Hemco - Mineros Nicaragua. Ms. Castillo is a prominent Latin American leader recognized for her strategic vision and ability to connect business development with sustainability, corporate reputation, and value creation for diverse stakeholders. Her leadership and impact have earned her distinctions such as one of the global 100 Inspirational Women in Mining 2022 list by Women in Mining UK.

The Company also announces that Andres Restrepo and Marco Izquierdo Llanos have resigned as directors of Mineros S.A., effective November 18, 2025. The Company thanks them for their service and contributions.

"On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank Mr. Londono, Mr. Splett, Mr. Restrepo, and Mr. Izquierdo for their dedication and service," said Augusto Lopez, Chairman of the Board. "We are pleased to welcome Daniel, Maria, and Carlos to their new roles, and to recognize Marcela and Sergio's long-standing contributions. These appointments strengthen our leadership team as we execute on our strategy."

ABOUT MINEROS S.A.

Mineros is a Latin American gold mining company headquartered in Medellin, Colombia. The Company has a diversified asset base, with mines in Colombia and Nicaragua and a pipeline of development and exploration projects throughout the region. The board of directors and management of Mineros have extensive experience in mining, corporate development, finance and sustainability. Mineros has a long track record of maximizing shareholder value and delivering solid annual dividends. For over 50 years Mineros has operated with a focus on safety and sustainability at all its operations.

Mineros' common shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol "MSA", and on the Colombia Stock Exchange under the symbol "MINEROS". Mineros shares also trade on the OTCQX Best Market, symbol MNSAF.

Election of Directors - Electoral Quotient System

The Company has been granted an exemption from the individual voting and majority voting requirements applicable to listed issuers under Toronto Stock Exchange policies, on grounds that compliance with such requirements would constitute a breach of Colombian laws and regulations which require the directors to be elected on the basis of a slate of nominees proposed for election pursuant to an electoral quotient system. For further information, please see the Company's most recent annual information form, available on the Company's website at https://www.mineros.com.co/ and from SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.com.

View source version on businesswire.com: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251118414056/en/

Contact

For further information, please contact:



Ann Wilkinson

Vice President, Investor Relations

+1 (647) 496-3011

Ann.Wilkinson@Mineros.com.co



Juan Obando

Director, Investor Relations

(+57) 574 266 5757

Juan.Obando@Mineros.com.co
Altris Engineering to Commence Gap Analysis Leading into an Optimised Preliminary Economic Assessment for the Ashram Rare Earth Project

HIGHLIGHTS

Altris Engineering appointed as Lead Engineer for the updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for the Ashram REE and Fluorspar Project in Quebec, Canada.

Altris will initially focus on a Gap Analysis to ascertain the work undertaken as part of the previous PEA and identify key areas required to close out the study using revised throughputs and an updated project configuration.

Following completion of the Gap Analysis, Altris will recommence the PEA closeout work packages with a target date set for the end of Q1 2026.

Ashram is already well advanced with an existing PEA study from 2015, a well-defined high-grade resource and multiple historical metallurgical campaigns completed, indicating outstanding flotation kinetics and the ability to produce a high-quality Mixed Rare Earth Oxide (MREO) product.

Given the depth of engineering experience available on the new board of Mont Royal, the Company is confident of delivering a PEA that will realise the best possible project economics for shareholders and the wider market.

Mont Royal's Managing Director, Nicholas Holthouse, said: "We are very pleased to be recommencing the PEA study and bringing this important piece of work to market. The focus of the team over the past few months has been to carefully review all the work completed to date and ascertain what can be done with the existing PEA format and metrics.

"This internal review, along with Altris's initial Gap Analysis mandate, will allow Mont Royal to recast the study with a strong focus on reducing technical risk and capital costs.

"The Mont Royal team looks forward to working with Altris and delivering the PEA study to market in a timely fashion."

Altris Engineering's Managing Director, Michael Ehlers, said: "We're excited to lead the PEA for Mont Royal's Ashram Project, one of North America's largest undeveloped rare earth deposits. Altris was selected for our team's deep expertise in similar project design and execution, particularly our management's extensive experience in Quebec's project development space. Collectively, our team has delivered multiple scoping, pre-feasibility, and feasibility studies, and has led EPC and EPCM project execution for battery and critical minerals projects across multiple global jurisdictions. We look forward to completing the Gap Analysis before advancing the optimised PEA, with a focus on reducing technical risk and capital requirements to support Mont Royal's path to development."

Vancouver, November 18, 2025 - Mont Royal Resources Ltd. (ASX: MRZ) ("Mont Royal" or "the Company") is pleased to announce that it has agreed to terms with Altris Engineering (Altris) for the execution and delivery of an updated Preliminary Economic Assessment (PEA) for its 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Project in northern Quebec, Canada.

It is expected that the updated PEA will take 3 - 6 months to complete, providing an update on the key work programs and strategic priorities for the Project and its pathway to development.

Altris will replace BBA consulting in this role and have been selected for their team's expertise in similar project design and execution, as well as the management team's extensive experience in the project development space in Canada and, most importantly, Quebec.

Collectively, the Altris team has delivered multiple scoping, pre-feasibility and feasibility studies, and has led EPC and EPCM project execution for battery and critical minerals projects across multiple global jurisdictions.

About Altris Engineering

Altris is an engineering consultancy providing practical and innovative solutions to clients in the mineral processing sector. The team combines multi-disciplinary expertise with extensive experience, having previously delivered a range of recognised and technically challenging projects across the industry. Altris supports projects from early concept through to operation, with a focus on constructability, cost-effectiveness, and operability. The company is committed to delivering efficient, high-quality outcomes that maximise value while maintaining strong technical standards and a client-focused approach.

Complemented by metallurgical support from its Canadian partners, the Altris team's extensive prior experience in Quebec includes involvement in critical minerals studies and projects across Quebec and Ontario covering cold-weather and remote operational environments, providing a practical understanding of regional technical, regulatory, and logistical requirements along with a strong understanding of local costs.

The Ashram Project is one of the largest undeveloped monazite-hosted rare earth deposits in North America, offering a unique opportunity to advance a new, large-scale source of critical rare earth supply at a time of growing Western demand and strategic focus on supply chain independence.

KEY ASSETS AND STRATEGY

The merged Company's flagship asset is the 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earths & Fluorspar Project ("Ashram Project"), which represents the largest undeveloped monazite-mineralised carbonatite-hosted Rare Earth Elements deposits in North America. In addition, the Company also holds the Eldor Niobium Project and the Northern Lights Lithium Project, both also located in Quebec (see Figure 1 below).

The Ashram Project is a Tier-1 REE deposit with high-value by-product potential (Fluorspar) and represents one of the most advanced rare earth development projects in North America. With over A$50 million invested historically in exploration, drilling, resource definition and development studies, Ashram represents a cornerstone asset in Canada's critical minerals push.

Figure 1: Ashram REE & Fluorspar Project Location and location of Northern Lights Project.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/12033/275111_1fcb2ddfc4ca1bbe_001full.jpg

This announcement has been approved for and on behalf of the Board of Directors.

ENDS

Joel Ives | Company Secretary

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

About Mont Royal Resources

Mont Royal Resources Limited (ASX: MRZ) (TSXV: MRZL) is a critical minerals development and exploration company with projects in Quebec, Canada. The Company is dedicated to advancing its 100%-owned Ashram Rare Earth and Fluorspar Deposit in Quebec, Canada - one of the largest monazite-dominant carbonatite-hosted Rare Earth Elements deposits in North America. In addition company owns 75% of Northern Lights Minerals 536km2 tenement package located in the Upper Eastmain Greenstone belt. The projects are located in the emerging James Bay area, a Tier-1 mining jurisdiction of Quebec, and are prospective for lithium, precious (Gold, Silver) and base metals mineralisation (Copper, Nickel).

For further information regarding Mont Royal Resources Limited, please visit the ASX platform (ASX: MRZ) or the Mont Royal's website www.montroyalres.com.

Important Notices & Disclaimers

Forward-Looking Statements

This announcement contains certain "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Australian securities laws and "forward looking information" within the meaning of Canadian securities laws (collectively referred to as "forward-looking statements"). All statements, other than statements of historical fact, that address circumstances, events, activities or developments that could, or may or will occur are forward looking statements. These forward-looking statements are subject to a variety of risks and uncertainties and other factors that could cause actual events or results to differ materially from those projected in the forward-looking information. Risks that could change or prevent these events, activities or developments from coming to fruition include: actual results of current and future exploration activities; that Mont Royal may not be able to fully finance any additional exploration on the Ashram Project; that even if Mont Royal is able raise capital, costs for exploration activities may increase such that Mont Royal may not have sufficient funds to pay for such exploration or processing activities; the timing and content of the proposed drill program and any future work programs may not be completed as proposed or at all; geological interpretations based on drilling that may change with more detailed information; potential process methods and mineral recoveries assumptions based on limited test work and by comparison to what are considered analogous deposits that, with further test work, may not be comparable; testing of our process may not prove successful or samples derived from the Ashram Project may not yield positive results, and even if such tests are successful or initial sample results are positive, the economic and other outcomes may not be as expected; the anticipated market demand for rare earth elements and other minerals may not be as expected; the availability of labour and equipment to undertake future exploration work and testing activities; geopolitical risks which may result in market and economic instability; and despite the current expected viability of the Ashram Project, conditions changing such that even if metals or minerals are discovered on the Ashram Project, the project may not be commercially viable, or other risks detailed herein and from time to time in the public filings made by Mont Royal. Although Mont Royal has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual actions, events or results to differ from those described in forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause such actions, events or results to differ materially from those anticipated. These forward-looking statements are based on Mont Royal's current expectations, estimates, forecasts and projections about its business and the industry in which it operates and management's beliefs and assumptions, including the non-occurrence of the risks and uncertainties that are described above and in the public filings made by Mont Royal or other events occurring outside of our normal course of business, and are not guarantees of future performance or development and involve known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that are in some cases beyond Mont Royal's control.

Forward-looking statements in this announcement include, but are not limited to, the goals, strategies, opportunities, technologies used, project timelines and funding requirements; impact of combined management expertise and prospective shareholding; the plans, operations and prospects of Mont Royal and its properties; the continued advancement of the Ashram Project to development; that Ashram's fluorspar component which makes it one of the largest potential sources of fluorspar in the world and could be a long-term supplier to the met-spar and acid-spar markets; that Mont Royal is positioning to be one of the lowest cost rare earth element producers globally, with a focus on being a long-term global supplier of mixed rare earth carbonate and/or NdPr oxide; and that Mont Royal may explore the potential of other high-value commodities on the Ashram Property and the expected timetable for dual listing of Mont Royal's shares; and statements about market and industry trends, which are based on interpretation of market conditions. Forward-looking statements can generally be identified by the use of forward-looking words such as "anticipate", "expect", "likely", "propose", "will", "intend", "should", "could", "may", "believe", "forecast", "estimate", "target", "outlook", "guidance" (including negative or grammatical variations) and other similar expressions. No representation, warranty, guarantee or assurance, express or implied, is given or made in relation to any forward-looking statement. In particular no representation, warranty or assumption, express or implied, is given in relation to any underlying assumption or that any forward-looking statement will be achieved. There can be no assurance that the forward-looking statements will prove to be accurate. Actual and future events may vary materially from the forward-looking statements and the assumptions on which the forward-looking statements were based, because events and actual circumstances frequently do not occur as forecast and future results are subject to known and unknown risks such as changes in market conditions and regulations.

Given these uncertainties, readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements, and should rely on their own independent enquiries, investigations and advice regarding information contained in this announcement. Any reliance by a reader on the information contained in this announcement is wholly at the reader's own risk.

To the maximum extent permitted by law or any relevant listing rules of the ASX/TSX-V, Mont Royal and their respective related bodies corporate and affiliates and their respective directors, officers, employees, advisers, agents and intermediaries disclaim any obligation or undertaking to disseminate any updates or revisions to the information in this announcement to reflect any change in expectations in relation to any forward-looking statements or any such change in events, conditions or circumstances on which any such statements were based. Nothing in this announcement will, under any circumstances (including by reason of this announcement remaining available and not being superseded or replaced by any other announcement or publication with respect to Mont Royal or the subject matter of this announcement), create an implication that there has been no change in the affairs of Mont Royal since the date of this announcement.

Not Investment Advice

This announcement is not financial product, investment advice or a recommendation to acquire securities of Mont Royal or Commerce and has been prepared without taking into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of individuals. Each recipient of this announcement should make its own enquiries and investigations regarding all information in this announcement, including, but not limited to, the assumption, uncertainty and contingencies which may affect future operations of Mont Royal and the impact that different future outcomes may have on Mont Royal. Before making an investment decision, prospective investors should consider the appropriateness of the information having regard to their own objectives, financial situation and needs, and seek legal, taxation and financial advice appropriate to their jurisdiction and circumstances.

Unless otherwise stated, all dollar values in this Announcement are reported in Australian dollars.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275111
Vancouver - Prismo Metals Inc. (the "Company") (CSE: PRIZ) (OTCQB: PMOMF) is pleased to report that it has completed a detailed exploration program at the Black Diamond area of its Silver King Project located in Arizona. Work consisted of mapping and sampling of the area including the Black Diamond copper replacement body and the newly encountered strongly altered felsic intrusion with stockwork veining. A handheld XRF analyzer was used to complete a soil geochemistry grid and to analyze selected rock samples in a qualitative manner. Additionally, an IP survey was recently initiated over the Silver King land package, with results expected by the first week of December.

Figure 1. Map showing the location of the Black Diamond replacement and felsic intrusion exploration targets at the Silver King project. Claim boundaries are shown in yellow.

The soil survey defined a large copper anomaly over the Black Diamond replacement body along with some anomalous gold values. Previous rock samples have shown the copper-gold association of mineralization in replacement mineralization. The soil survey also showed Zn, Pb, Ag and Sb anomalies associated with the felsic intrusion. This intrusion is strongly sericitized and is cut by moderate to strong stockwork quartz veins with locally abundant iron oxides after pyrite.

XRF analysis of rock samples in the area was also completed. Although XRF analyses on rocks are generally qualitative and are not valid assays as are rock samples assayed by the geochemical laboratories, they do indicate the presence of the metals of interest and are useful as guides to mineralization.

XRF analyses of individual quartz veinlets in the stockwork hosted by the felsic intrusion locally indicate the presence of silver, lead and zinc as well as some antimony. During the exploration program, Prismo's geological team took 34 rock chip samples over the area. These samples were submitted to the laboratory with assay results expected in the coming weeks.

Craig Gibson, Chief Exploration Officer of the Company, stated: "These results confirm Black Diamond as a copper-gold replacement body target as was indicated from previous work, making this area a compelling drill target. The data collected from the felsic intrusion indicated that it is mineralized, a feature that was not indicated in reports from previous work by Fischer Watt in 1980, although they considered it a prime target based on alteration mineralogy and fluid inclusion studies1."

Drill Permit Update

Prismo also announced that the Forest Service, the federal surface land management entity for Silver King, has determined that the Company's proposed drill plan meets the regulatory requirements for processing, and that such plan is complete, as described in the regulations at 36 CFR 228.4(c).

The Forest Service will now proceed with the environmental analysis pursuant to 36 CFR 228(a)(5) in conformity with the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). This analysis will proceed as a Categorical Exclusion, the lowest level of environment reviews applicable to projects that are not expected to have a significant effect on the environment, such as Silver King.

Alain Lambert, CEO of Prismo stated: "We are pleased with the steady progress on the permitting front, especially given the now resolved US government "shutdown."

Mr. Lambert added: "With the closing of our recent oversubscribed financing, we are fully funded for the first two phases of drilling. In Phase 1, we plan a drill program at the historic Silver King mine site for about 1,000 meters. That drill plan is designed to test the upper half of the steeply dipping pipelike Silver King mineralized body as well as potential mineralization adjacent to the dense stockwork that was the focus of historic mining."

Figure 2. Cross section through the Silver King mine workings showing proposed drill holes (in black) to test the pipelike mineralized body (in red)

Given the Company's recent discoveries, Prismo has added a second phase of drilling for an additional 1,000 meters. This additional program will focus on the newly identified targets outside of the historic mining area, such as the polymetallic vein and the copper vein mentioned above. Drilling of the large body of replacement mineralization on the patented Black Diamond claim is also being planned and is road accessible on private ground.

1Haynes, F. and Reynolds, 1980, Silver King Breccia Pipe Prospect, unpublished report, Fischer-Watt Mining Co., 5p.

QA/QC

XRF analyses are considered to be qualitative in nature and cannot be considered to be representative of commercial assays. XRF soil analyses are useful as they indicate variations in metal contents to represent anomalies, although the actual values of the metals present are not necessarily the same as those obtained from commercial geochemical analyses. The company uses commercial standards when using the XRF analyzer.

Qualified Person

Dr. Craig Gibson, PhD., CPG., a Qualified Person as defined by NI-43-01 regulations and Chief Exploration Officer and a director of the Company, has reviewed and approved the technical disclosures in this news release. The historic data presented in this press release was obtained from public sources, should be considered incomplete and is not qualified under NI 43-101, but is believed to be accurate. The Company has not verified the historical data presented and it cannot be relied upon, and it is being used solely to aid in exploration plans. References to mineralization at the Magma Mine and Resolution Copper deposit is not necessarily indicative to the mineralization on the Silver King property.

About the Silver King

Discovered in 1875, the Silver King mine was one of Arizona's most important historic producers, yielding nearly 6 million ounces of silver at grades of up to 61 oz/t. The Silver King mine sits only 3 km from the main shaft of the Resolution Copper project - a joint venture between Rio Tinto and BHP and one of the world's largest unmined copper deposits with an estimated copper resource of 1.787 billion metric tonnes at an average grade of 1.5% copper(1). The unique land position is fully surrounded by Resolution Copper's claim block, offering strategic upside. Selected samples from small-scale production in the late 1990s returned grades as high as 644 oz/t silver (18,250 g/t) and 0.53 oz/t gold (15 g/t), indicating that high-grade mineralization remains.

About Prismo Metals Inc.

Prismo (CSE: PRIZ) is a mining exploration company focused on advancing its Silver King, Ripsey and Hot Breccia projects in Arizona and its Palos Verdes silver project in Mexico.

Please follow @PrismoMetals on Twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube

Prismo Metals Inc.

1100 - 1111 Melville St., Vancouver, British Columbia V6E 3V6

Phone: (416) 361-0737

Contact:

Alain Lambert, Chief Executive Officer alain.lambert@prismometals.com

Gordon Aldcorn, President gordon.aldcorn@prismometals.com

Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Information

This release includes certain statements and information that may constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable Canadian securities laws. Forward-looking statements relate to future events or future performance and reflect the expectations or beliefs of management of the Company regarding future events. Generally, forward-looking statements and information can be identified by the use of forward-looking terminology such as "intends" or "anticipates", or variations of such words and phrases or statements that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "should", "would" or "occur". This information and these statements, referred to herein as "forward?looking statements", are not historical facts, are made as of the date of this news release and include without limitation, statements regarding discussions of future plans, estimates and forecasts and statements as to management's expectations and intentions with respect to, among other things: the timing, costs and results of drilling at Silver King.

These forward?looking statements involve numerous risks and uncertainties, and actual results might differ materially from results suggested in any forward-looking statements. These risks and uncertainties include, among other things: delays in obtaining or failure to obtain appropriate funding to finance the exploration program at Silver King.

In making the forward-looking statements in this news release, the Company has applied several material assumptions, including without limitation, that: the ability to raise capital to fund the drilling campaign at Silver King and the timing of such drilling campaign.

Although management of the Company has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking statements or forward-looking information, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and forward-looking information. Readers are cautioned that reliance on such information may not be appropriate for other purposes. The Company does not undertake to update any forward-looking statement, forward-looking information or financial outlook that are incorporated by reference herein, except in accordance with applicable securities laws. We seek safe harbor.

Copyright (c) 2025 TheNewswire - All rights reserved.
Vancouver, November 19, 2025 - First Andes Silver Ltd. (TSXV: FAS) (OTC Pink: MSLVF) (FSE: 9TZ0) ("First Andes" or the "Company") today outlined a 2025-2026 systematic property-wide exploration program to rapidly evaluate and advance the Company's 100%-owned Santas Gloria Project ("Santas Gloria" or the "Project"), located approximately 55 kilometers east of Lima, Peru.

Key Points Summary:

Santas Gloria hosts 23 mapped intermediate-sulphidation epithermal ("ISE") veins totaling more than 12 kilometres ("km") of strike, yet has never been subject to systematic modern exploration, underscoring its exceptional discovery potential;

Permitting for Phase 3 drilling, targeting the Tembladera and San Jorge vein systems (and potentially Maribel and Paquita) has commenced (see news release dated November 3, 2025);

First Andes' systematic 2025-2026 exploration program at Santas Gloria will comprise: High resolution WorldView-3 ("WV-3") spectral alteration mineral mapping (commenced) Property-wide soil sampling program across all 23 known veins (commenced) Follow-up mapping, channel and rock sampling at WV-3 and soil anomalies Ground Induced Polarization ("IP") program at newly defined drill target areas Drill permitting and subsequent drill testing (Phase 4);

WV-3 and soil sampling will commence in November, 2025: Final products for spectral alteration mineral mapping are expected in 5-6 weeks First half of property-wide soil sampling to be completed in February, 2026, with analytical results anticipated in March, 2026 Remaining soil samples to be collected following the wet season (April onwards), with analytical results expected in Q2, 2026;

Targeted mapping, channel and rock sampling to commence following the full receipt of soil assays and subsequent integration/interpretation of new exploration database (i.e. WV-3 data) to distill high-priority drill targets property-wide;

Gound IP geophysics will be utilized to rank and refine Phase 4 drill targets, and permitting of drill pad will be initiated immediately thereafter.

"Santas Gloria remains one of the most compelling underexplored silver districts in Peru, hosting 23 mapped ISE veins totaling over 12 kilometers of strike. Despite this endowment, the Project has never been systematically explored using industry-proven evaluation techniques, such as soil geochemistry, ground geophysics (IP) and high-resolution spectral alteration mineral mapping (WV-3)," stated Colin Smith, CEO and Director of First Andes Silver. "With Phase 3 drill permitting underway and a fully integrated 2025-2026 exploration program on deck, First Andes is taking the first truly integrated approach to vectoring into high-grade mineralization across the entire Property."

2025-2026 Santas Gloria Exploration Program

WorldView-3 Spectral Mapping (Figure 1)

First Andes Silver has initiated a 50 km property-wide WV-3 spectral mapping and interpretation program at Santas Gloria, marking a key first step in the Company's systematic, district-scale exploration strategy to evaluate all 23 mapped ISE veins, the majority of which have never been explored.

The WV-3 dataset will include:

2-m resolution spectral alteration products and 50-centimeter ("cm") resolution natural-colour imagery;

Detailed mapping of up to 12 alteration mineral maps, including key ISE pathfinders: Alunite, kaolinite, sericite, montmorillonite, chlorite, epidote, jarosite, hematite, goethite, opal/chalcedony, calcite, and iron oxides;

50 km 2 of high-resolution context images: Greyscale image (50-cm) Natural colour image (50-cm) Geology enhanced colour image (2-m) Vegetation intensity (2-m) SWIR enhanced image (2-m) Sabins composite image (2-m) Sultan composite image (2-m);

of high-resolution context images: Alteration Mapping Report, summarizing the alteration mineral processing results;

WV-3 satellite tasking has commenced, with data collection and imaging expected in 3 to 4 weeks, and final interpretations expected in 5 to 6 weeks.

All data will be processed and interpreted in collaboration with PhotoSat Information Ltd. of Vancouver, Canada, a global leader in spectral exploration. The resulting alteration and structural interpretations will be integrated with geological and geochemical datasets, including the planned property-wide soil sampling program, to identify new high-caliber drill targets for testing in 2026.





Figure 1: Plan map of the planned WV-3 alteration mineral mapping area at Santas Gloria.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10525/275075_7f05af9a149d98a0_002full.jpg

Property-Wide Soil Sampling (Figure 2)

Soil sampling represents one of the most powerful and cost-efficient methods for evaluating ISE systems by identifying halos of geochemical dispersion which typically envelop sulphide-bearing veins. Systematic soil sampling can delineate these halos through elevated concentrations of key pathfinder elements, such as Ag, Pb, Zn, As, and Sb, which may extend several hundred meters from the mineralized core.

Beyond direct metal anomalies, soil geochemistry can also define the broader hydrothermal alteration footprint, including sericite, kaolinite, and chlorite zones, through subtle shifts in major and trace element chemistry. When integrated with spectral, geological, and geophysical datasets, soil sampling becomes a powerful vectoring tool to refine, rank, and prioritize high-potential drill targets across the property.

The proposed soil sampling program at Santas Gloria has commenced, and is summarized as follows:

Designed to cover all 23 known veins property-wide, which collectively strike >12 km;

Sampling lines will be oriented north-south ("N-S"), and spaced 100 m apart;

Sample spacing along soil lines is 25 m, enabling the detection of narrow veins at surface;

N-S lines will extend ~200 m past the surficial trace of all 23 known veins;

Sampling program will be divided into two sampling campaigns (before and after wet season);

First campaign planned for November 2025 to February 2026 (all results by March 2026);

Second campaign planned for April 2026 to June 2026 (all results by July 2026);

All soil samples will be analyzed via 4-acid digestion and multi-element ICP-MS at ALS Laboratory in Lima, Peru.

The results of the property-wide soil sampling program will provide a comprehensive geochemical framework for the Santas Gloria district, enabling First Andes to delineate new, previously untested anomalies and refine the definition of known mineralized corridors. Integration of these results with WV-3 spectral data, detailed geological mapping, rock/channel sampling, and IP geophysics will allow the Company to systematically prioritize and advance the most prospective targets toward Phase 4 drilling, marking a major step forward in unlocking the full discovery potential of the Santas Gloria epithermal vein field.





Figure 2: Plan map of the planned soil sampling program at Santas Gloria. Previous results set out in the news release dated June 2, 2021.

To view an enhanced version of this graphic, please visit:

https://images.newsfilecorp.com/files/10525/275075_7f05af9a149d98a0_003full.jpg

Targeted Follow-Up Exploration

Following integration of the WV-3 spectral and soil geochemical datasets, First Andes will undertake a focused follow-up field program to delineate and refine high-priority drill targets across Santas Gloria, including:

Geological and Structural Mapping Detailed 1:2,000 to 1:5,000 scale mapping at strongest anomalies Definition of vein orientations, and structural controls on mineralization Particular attention will be given to fault intersections, splays and dilational jogs;



Rock and Channel Sampling Targeted rock-chip and channel sampling will test anomalous Continuous channels to be collected across exposed veins and anomalies;



Ground IP Geophysics A ground IP survey will be completed across the most prospective zones Detection subsurface chargeability and resistivity anomalies (sulphide mineralization) Results will assist in modeling vein continuity and identifying potential blind targets.



The iterative integration of spectral, geochemical, geological and geophysical datasets will enable First Andes to confidently rank and advance the most promising targets toward Phase 4 drilling.

Qualified Person

Dr. Christopher Wilson, Ph.D., FAusIMM (CP), FSEG, FGS, a Qualified Person under National Instrument 43-101, has reviewed and approved the technical information contained in this news release. Dr. Wilson serves as Chief Geologist of First Andes Silver Ltd. and is a shareholder of the Company.

About First Andes Silver Ltd.

First Andes Silver Ltd. is a British Columbia company that holds a 100% interest in the high-grade Santas Gloria silver property, located in a major mining district 55 km east of Lima, Peru. Santas Gloria has excellent established road access, and is situated within a well-known intermediate sulphidation epithermal belt, and hosts over 12 km of multiphase veins mapped at surface which had never been historically drilled or explored by modern techniques before 2024. First Andes' maiden diamond drill program last year reported high-grade silver grades on all drilled vein systems confirming silver endowment and warranting high priority follow-up drilling in 2025.

Forward-Looking Statements

Information set forth in this news release contains forward-looking statements that are based on assumptions as of the date of this news release. These statements reflect management's current estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations. They are not guarantees of future performance. The Company cautions that all forward-looking statements are inherently uncertain and that actual performance may be affected by a number of material factors, many of which are beyond the Company's control. Such factors include, among other things: risks and uncertainties relating to Company's limited operating history, ability to obtain sufficient financing to carry out its exploration programs and the need to comply with environmental and governmental regulations. Accordingly, actual and future events, conditions and results may differ materially from the estimates, beliefs, intentions and expectations expressed or implied in the forward-looking information. Except as required under applicable securities legislation, the Company undertakes no obligation to publicly update or revise forward-looking information.

The forward-looking statements contained in this news release are made as of the date of this news release. Except as required by law, the Company disclaims any intention and assumes no obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Neither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Service Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

To view the source version of this press release, please visit https://www.newsfilecorp.com/release/275075
Black Mammoth Metals Corp. (TSXV: BMM) (OTC: LQRCF) ("Black Mammoth" or the "Company") is pleased to announce that it has completed the acquisition of the Ramsey Silver property ("Ramsey" or the "Property"). The Property consists of 2 patented claims and 12 federal lode claims on BLM administered lands totalling approximately 100 hectares (247 acres) located in La Paz County, AZ. The Property has excellent access and is situated in the foothills of the New Water Mountains, 6km SW of the town of Brenda, in the Plomosa Mining District within the Sonora Desert portion of the Basin and Range physiographic province. The Company now owns Ramsey Silver property 100% with no royalties and an extensive data package.

Adjacent to the historic Ramsey mine, significant silver mineralization has been intersected in 2016-2018 drilling as well as in historical drilling in the 1960s with strong surface geochemical values. Exploration work also includes surface mapping and geophysical surveying in recent years producing drill targets. The silver mineralization intersected in the recent drilling is close to surface rendering it possibly amenable to open pit development.

Best Drill Intercept:

44.4m containing 62.5 g/t silver at 79.4 - 123.5m down hole depth with approximate true width of 35m. This interval is contained within a wider zone of silver mineralization between 64 - 152.4m: 88.4m with approximate true width of 70m averaging 42.6 g/t silver. R1706 was drilled at -75 degrees bearing 60 degrees azimuth on the patented ground. The drilling may have intersected the periphery of a silver-bearing hydrothermal system. (Reverse Circulation drill hole R1706 in 2017)

Black Mammoth looks forward to commencing a complex review of the Ramsey data package and an on-site evaluation of this high prospective property.

Acquisition Terms (USD):

The patented claims were purchased from a private vendor for $30,000 and the BLM claims were purchased from a separate private vendor in June 2025 for $12,000. There are no royalties, finder's fees or share compensation in connection with the Ramsey property acquisition.

The Company also continues to acquire non-core exploration interests in the western US, by purchase and by staking.

QA/QC and Analytical Procedures (drill hole R1706, Arizona Silver Exploration, 2017):

All drill cuttings were transported under strict chain of custody by ALS Minerals personnel to the ALS Minerals laboratory in Tucson Arizona, where samples were dried and crushed to 70% passing 2 mm, a 250 gram split is taken and pulverized to 85% passing 75 microns, subject to a four-acid digestion, and then analyzed by ICP/MS for a 48 element package including silver, lead, and zinc. Samples over 100 ppm silver and over 10,000 ppm lead or zinc are re-analyzed using ICP for higher concentration levels. Selected intervals with high silver values are re-submitted for 1-assay ton fire assays for gold.

About Black Mammoth Metals Corporation:

Since January 2024, Black Mammoth Metals has acquired a 100% interest in:

Gallinas Rare Earth property, Lincoln County, NM.

Amador Silver property, Lander County, NV.

Big Bear Copper property, Gila County, AZ.

Zulu Gold property, Gila County, AZ.

Northern Star property, La Paz County, AZ.

Coal Canyon Gold property, Pershing County, NV.

Island Mountain Gold District (including Coleman Canyon, St. Elmo and Diamond Jim (Ag, Pb, Zn, Sb)), Elko County, NV.

Clover High-Grade Gold property, Elko County, NV.

Leadore Silver-Lead-Rare Earth Elements property, Lemhi County, ID.

East Reveille Gold property, Nye County, NV.

America Mine Gold property, San Bernardino, CA.

Quito Gold property, Lander County, NV.

South Ravenswood Gold District (including the Raven, and Happy Cat properties) Lander County, NV. (Happy Cat was purchased prior to January 2024).

Callaghan Gold District (including North Callaghan, Charlie, Cottonwood and Rast properties), Lander County, NV.

Black Mammoth also has a 100% interest in the Blanco Creek Gold property in the Elk Creek Mining District, central Idaho, which hosts three historic underground mines along 3,550 meters (11,644 feet) of strike on the north-east trending regional Blanco Shear Zone.

Mark J. Abrams, CPG #11451, a Qualified Person as defined under National Instrument 43-101 - Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects ("NI 43-101") and director of Black Mammoth, has reviewed and approved the technical content in this release.

On behalf of the board,

"Dustin Henderson"

Dustin Henderson, BBA

President & CEO

Website: www.blackmammothmetals.com

This press release contains forward-looking statements and forward-looking information (collectively, "forward looking statements") within the meaning of applicable securities laws. All statements, other than statements of historical fact, included herein are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are typically identified by words such as believe, expect, anticipate, intend, estimate, postulate and similar expressions or are those which, by their nature, refer to future events. Although the Company believes that such statements are reasonable, there can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate, and actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such statements. The Company cautions investors that any forward-looking statements by the Company are not guarantees of future performance, and that actual results may differ materially from those in forward-looking statements. Trading in the securities of the Company should be considered highly speculative. All the Company's public disclosure filings may be accessed via www.sedarplus.ca and readers are urged to review these materials, including any technical reports filed or disclosed on the Company's website related to the Company's mineral properties.

Neither TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider (as that term is defined in the policies of the TSX Venture Exchange) accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.

SOURCE Black Mammoth Metals Corp







Contact



Black Mammoth Metals Corporation: Phone: 604 347 9101, Email: blackmammothmetals@gmail.com


Asteron Life gets ratings boost

Backing from Japans largest life insurer has given Asteron a stronger claims paying rating in Australia and New Zealand.

Wednesday, November 19th 2025, 5:57PM

by Ksenia Stepanova

Fitch Ratings has boosted Asteron Life's Financial Strength Rating from 'A' to 'A+' following Nippon Life Insurance Company's global acquisition of Resolution Life.

The upgrade comes from the stronger backing Asteron Life now has as part of the Nippon Life Group. Fitch views all of Resolution Life's subsidiaries as "Very Important" to Nippon Life and believes the group has the ability and willingness to support its businesses globally.

Nippon Life is Japan's largest life insurer. The acquisition gives it a significantly larger presence in the Australian and New Zealand life insurance markets.

Asteron Life chief executive Grant Willis said the company was pleased with Fitch's recognition of its financial position.

"As part of the Nippon Life Group, Asteron Life is well positioned to continue delivering stability, security, and long-term value to our customers and partners," Willis said.

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Tea-oil camellia harvest in full swing in SE China's Fujian

People's Daily Online) 15:21, November 19, 2025

Photo shows tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

Following the Beginning of the Winter solar term, which fell on Nov. 7 this year, about 140,000 mu (93.33 square kilometers) of tea-oil camellia (Camellia oleifera) trees in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province, have entered their harvest season.

The mountain slopes here are covered in lush green trees heavy with tea-oil camellia fruits, creating a vivid scene of abundance. Local farmers have been busy picking ripe fruits, marking the start of a 40-day harvest period.

Photo shows tea-oil camellia blooming and fruiting in the same tree. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

Tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai are harvested once a year, within a tightly scheduled time window  usually from late October or early November to the end of November. During this period, the fruits turn from green to red without cracking or dropping, making them ideal for large-scale collection and storage. The carefully timed harvest ensures the tea oil pressed from the seeds achieves optimal acid and peroxide values.

Photo shows white tea-oil camellia flowers blooming in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

Recognized as a national geographical indication product, Yongtai tea-oil camellia benefits from the region's mild, humid subtropical monsoon climate. The county enjoys average annual temperatures between 14.6 and 20.7 degrees Celsius, rainfall of 1,400 to 2,000 millimeters, and about 1,700 hours of sunshine each year  conditions highly favorable for tea-oil camellia growth.

In 2025, Yongtai's total fresh tea-oil camellia fruit output is expected to reach 40,000 tonnes, with a projected value of 210 million yuan ($29.52 million).

Intern Hou Shuyue contributed to this story.

Photo shows tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

A farmer collects ripe tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

A farmer picks ripe tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

A farmer picks ripe tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

Photo shows harvested tea-oil camellia fruits in Yongtai county, Fuzhou city, southeast China's Fujian Province. (People's Daily Online/Lin Mingxian)

(Web editor: Chang Sha, Liang Jun)
Its mission statement is clear. The Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists in Maryland has the responsibility to protect the citizens of Maryland. Like similar boards in other states, it licenses practitioners and attempts to ensure that they follow codes of ethics and guidelines for responsible behavior in dealing with their clients. But the mere existence of a board with a laudable mission is just a starting point. There are no guarantees that it will actually deliver.A December 2017 legislative review of the board and an earlier audit in Maryland point to substantial breaches in delivery. Theyre not tracking complaints that they receive, and it takes a long time to look at complaints, says Maryland Auditor Thomas Barnickel. His previous April audit, for example, listed untimely action in nine of the 15 complaints the audit tested. This included three that were not submitted to the Office of Attorney General, even though the board recommended at least 10 months earlier they should have been referred to OAG for administrative action [including license revocation].Maryland is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to difficulties with the 1,800 professional and occupational licensing boards in the U.S., which are largely dominated by the men and women who are part of the very professions being governed. Though problems arent universal, its difficult to balance the interests of members of a profession who deliver specified services with the interests of the public who receive those services. On top of that, many licensing boards are thinly staffed; board members, who are often unpaid or poorly paid, usually have significant subject knowledge but lack essential managerial skills.The range of problems these weaknesses cause is wide and deep. A 2016 performance audit of the Nevada State Board of Dental Examiners, for instance, found almost no oversight of board decisions, poor documentation within disciplinary files and the absence of organized filing methods. Licensees were also often overcharged for investigations. Although the board had a goal of resolving complaints within 90 days, it took on average over 400 days to settle disciplinary matters.A particularly biting special report came out of the Iowa Office of Ombudsman a year ago. That states 36 licensing boards cover a variety of medical professions and other occupations, such as massage therapists, plumbers and sign language interpreters. The problem, the report found, is that many of Iowas boards operate in the shadows with little accountability. Are the boards focused on the complainants? Id have to say no. Thats not really a big focus, says Andy Teas, legal counsel for the ombudsman office and the lead writer of the February 2017 report. Since it came out, complaints to the ombudsmans office have increased by about 55 percent.One approach that has the potential for improved monitoring and oversight of licensing board activity is centralizing their work. For example, states can create a singular office that acts as an umbrella to oversee licensing board actions, such as the handling of complaints. Some states, like Arizona and Colorado, are quite centralized and provide more management oversight, which increases board effectiveness and the attention to public concerns. This kind of attention from state agencies can help make sure that technology is adequate, reports are completed on time, online files are fully documented, and complaints receive timely and even-handed treatment.In Maryland, the Board of Professional Counselors and Therapists is trying to address its problems in part by creating a new tracking system for complaints and applying other management improvements.Despite the problems in many state licensing boards, their numbers are growing, which can present additional challenges. Back in 2015, Morris Kleiner, the AFL-CIO Chair in Labor Policy at the University of Minnesota, told us he was concerned about the expansion in the number of state licensing boards and their subsequent costs. Today, he sees another related problem in the way professionals on boards deal with complaints against their peers. There are few individuals who are disciplined by boards, he says, and its extremely rare for individuals to lose their license.As much as the issue of licensing and professional boards is not a brand-new one, its likely that states will find they need to manage this aspect of governance more closely in the near future. The impetus for that focus will be fallout from a 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in which the North Carolina State Board of Dental Examiners faced off against the Federal Trade Commission. The case involved the ability of a board dominated by licensed practicing dentists to prevent non-dentists from offering teeth whitening services and products. By ruling against the dentists, the Supreme Court alerted states that they could run afoul of antitrust laws unless they supervised the actions of a board dominated by the profession or occupation it licensed. Previously boards had been immune from antitrust actions. This is really important and will occupy occupational regulation for years to come, says Kleiner. It makes the state government look at boards in a different way and will help make sure theyre looking after the interests of consumers.
Samsung Display had an ongoing three-year legal battle against BOE over trade secrets theft and patent infringements related to OLED tech, and according to a new report from Yonhap News, the two sides have settled their dispute.

According to the report, the U.S. International Trade Commission (ITC) issued an official statement confirming that the case has been suspended. While details of the withdrawal were not disclosed, industry sources suggest that BOE has reached an out-of-court settlement with Samsung, which would see it paying royalties to use Samsung Displays intellectual property (IP).

Prior to this turn of events, BOE was faced with a nearly 15-year preliminary ban on OLED display imports to the US due to its violation of the US Tariff Act. BOE was reportedly selling its OLED panels through misappropriation of Samsung's trade secrets. BOE is one of the leading display manufacturers and a key supplier for most of the major smartphone brands, including Apple, Huawei, vivo and Oppo. The new ruling will help resume its OLED display imports to the US.

Source
WhatsApp is huge, and its growth came in part from how easy it is to find people using the service - all you need is their phone number. Unfortunately, this also means every WhatsApp user's phone number was, up until very recently, easily obtainable by anyone -including any nefarious hacker group out there.

This has been revealed by Austrian researchers, who were able to extract phone numbers for all 3.5 billion WhatsApp users. And for around 57% of those 3.5 billion users, the researchers were also able to access their profile photos, and for another 29%, the text on their profiles.

If you're wondering what black hat hacking magic trick they needed to use, well, none. All they did is basically try and add billions of numbers - in the same way you'd go about it. You add a number and then WhatsApp tells you if the person using that number has an account or not, and shows you their profile picture and account text.

That's it, that's what these researchers did, only on a massive scale, using WhatsApp Web, the service's browser-based interface. They were able to check around 100 million phone numbers per hour earlier this year, since, despite WhatsApp parent Meta having been warned about this issue in 2017 by another researcher, it failed to do anything about it.

Thankfully, the Austrian researchers notified it in April about the problem and by October, the company did implement rate-limiting to prevent such mass-scale contact discovery. But of course, this wasn't implemented for many, many years, during which every type of nefarious actor could have exploited the system.

For its part, Meta stressed that all of this data is "basic publicly available information" and that profile photos and text weren't exposed for users who opted to make that private. The company also assures everyone that it "found no evidence of malicious actors abusing this vector", and "no non-public data was accessible to the researchers".

Source | Via
Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero is again asking lawmakers to step into her dispute with Attorney General Douglas Moylan over utility installations for the new Mangilao hospital project.

The governor on Wednesday called the Legislature into another special session on the issue.

Senators will meet at 10 a.m., Friday, to weigh a new bill seeking to allow bids for hospital utility contracts to bypass Moylans legal review.

The urgency of this measure cannot be overstated, the governor wrote Speaker Frank Blas Jr. Wednesday.

It marks the second time the governor has called senators in to settle the dispute over $104 million in federal American Rescue Plan funds earmarked for utility installations at the Mangilao hospital.

Funds will expire if unspent by Dec. 31, 2026.

But the AG and governors office are fighting in federal court over the legality of the hospital project.

Lawmakers declined to take any action on similar legislation to allow utility contract bids to bypass the AG, after hosting public hearings on the bill.

A new bill that the governor sent Wednesday mirrors verbatim the previous bill, the governor wrote to the speaker.

The measure would essentially allow contracts for utilities at the Mangilao hospital to bypass two sections of law that require the AGs review and approval of government procurement.

The Guam Power Authority and Guam Waterworks Authority would get a pass on utility contract reviews, based on the bill. The Guam Economic Development Authority would also get a pass for environmental assessments of the Mangilao property.

Instead of the AG, the bill would have the lawyer in charge of procurements at the Department of Administrations General Services Agency review any procurements for the hospital utilities.

This step has become necessary because Attorney General Doug Moylan has refused to perform his statutory duty to review the procurement contracts at issue in compliance with professional conduct requirements, the governor wrote.

Leon Guerrero stressed that the $104 million would benefit Mangilao at no cost to GovGuam, at a time when lawmakers will be weighing a $300 million bond borrowing for GPA.

Moylan has publicly promised not to sign off on any utility installation contracts for what hes called an illegal Mangilao hospital project.

The AG is actively suing in the District Court of Guam to block the $104 million in ARP funds set aside for the new hospital.

GPA has sued to disqualify him from reviewing the hospital contracts, and the case is ongoing in District Court.

The AG has alleged that the Guam Housing and Urban Renewal Authority violated the law when accepting ARP funds to buy land for the hospital, and when condemning property for the hospital. He also pointed to violations in the deal between Adelup and GHURA for the funds.

Both the governors office and GHURA have denied the allegations and are trying to get the lawsuit thrown out.

Court action

Late last month, the governor asked the Supreme Court of Guam for a ruling on whether or not Moylan even has the legal authority to block utility contracts for the new hospital.

If a requested expedited schedule on the matter is granted, justices could have heard arguments and decided on the case in just a matter of weeks.

But Moylan filed to remove the case to the federal District Court on the same day that Adelup filed the case with the local Supreme Court last month.

A review by the federal court could potentially take months or longer, if the case gets tied up with other lawsuits related to the Mangilao hospital now being heard.

On Nov. 4, the governors attorneys asked the federal court to send the matter back to local justices for review.

Attorneys called the AGs removal plainly baseless in court filings and asked federal judges to sanction the AG.

Parties have yet to appear before a judge on the case. A schedule for further proceedings is due by Dec. 4, court records show.




Haiti - 222nd Vertieres : Message from the Consul in Santiago (DR)





As part of the commemoration of the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertieres, Stephen Junior Cherenfant, Consul General of Haiti in Santiago de los Caballeros, Dominican Republic, delivered a message for the occasion, which we invite you to read and share.



"Our ancestors accomplished the impossible. Facing the largest army of the time, they wrote one of the most glorious chapters in human history, under the visionary leadership of Jean-Jacques Dessalines.



Today, despite the challenges facing our country, Vertieres remains a landmark and a compass. It reminds us of where we come from: a people who do not give up; a people who rise again; a people who transform suffering into hope.



It shows us where we must go : toward unity, solidarity, collective responsibility, and a profound love for our country.



Here in the Dominican Republic, we have a duty to remain united, in solidarity, responsible, and proud of our identity. Together, let us protect our image, support our brothers and sisters, and show that the Haitian community is a community of values, peace, and hard work.



Dear compatriots, dear friends of Haiti residing in Santiago and throughout the Cibao region.



On this November 18th, we honor the Battle of Vertieres, the final decisive battle that paved the way for Haiti's independence. Vertieres is more than a historical event : it is a legacy, an inner strength, a flame of freedom that every Haitian still carries within them.



As Head of Mission, I salute your dignity, your courage, and your perseverance. The Consulate remains committed to supporting you, listening to you, and defending your rights with respect and professionalism.



On this November 18th, let's be brothers, let's be united, let's be in solidarity. May the spirit of Dessalines rekindle in us courage and love of country.



Long live the legacy of Vertieres! Long live the unity of the Haitian community in the Cibao region! Long live Haiti !"



HL/ HaitiLibre






















Haiti - News : Zapping...





Elections : US Ambassador Optimistic

On Tuesday, November 18, 2026, US Ambassador to Haiti Henry Wooster expressed his optimism regarding the efforts of the Provisional Electoral Council (CEP) and the Haitian government to adopt an electoral law and an official calendar. He welcomed the commitment to publish a "clear and binding" calendar to prepare for the elections. The diplomat also reiterated the United States' support for Haitian and international forces in restoring security in Haiti.



SIMPAP : Cleanup at and near the MUPANAH

On the occasion of the commemoration of November 18, 1803, the historic date of the Battle of Vertieres, the Port-au-Prince Municipal Fire Department (SIMPAP) conducted a cleanup operation at the Museum of the Haitian National Pantheon (MUPANAH) and its surrounding area. This initiative aimed to honor the memory of national heroes and to provide these sites with a cleaner and more welcoming environment.



Chancellor Jean-Baptiste Requests Assistance from the British Government

On Monday, November 17, 2025, Haitian Chancellor Jean-Victor Harvel Jean-Baptiste, accompanied by the Haitian Ambassador, was received by Baroness Jenny Chapman, Minister of State for International Development and Africa, at the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO). Minister Jean-Baptiste requested, among other things, the support of the British Government for Haiti's security forces, including equipment and supplies to continue combating the scourge of insecurity, pending the deployment of the Gang Supression Force (GSF).



222nd Vertieres : A Series of Tributes to Heroes

National Education Fund (FNE) :

"On this November 18th, our Nations memory turns to Vertieres, the summit where a people thirsting for dignity repelled one of the most feared armies of its time. This date is not merely a historical reminder; it embodies the affirmation of a collective destiny, forged in the courage, discipline, and strategic vision of our ancestors. At Vertieres, Haiti did not win a battle: it conquered its very breath. It demonstrated to the world that no force is invincible when a people chooses to rise up, advance, and triumph. This legacy compels us to transmit, educate, rebuild, and defend what is essential : education as a weapon of freedom; knowledge as a bulwark against all forms of domination. On this significant date, the National Education Fund (FNE) pays tribute to these men whose bravery remains a guiding light. May this day rekindle in each of us the commitment to effort, discipline, and unity that once made the colonial powers of the world tremble. Vertieres is not just a memory : it is a call. A call to raise Haiti to the level of its own history."



French Embassy :

"On this November 18th, the French Embassy joins the Haitian people in commemorating the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertieres. A pivotal moment in Haitian history, Vertieres symbolizes the courage, unity, and quest for freedom and dignity of the Haitian people. The French Embassy pays tribute to this legacy and reaffirms its commitment to building, with Haiti, a future of dialogue, shared memory, and cooperation. May the courage of the heroes of Vertieres inspire the republican forces in the fight against the criminals who are destroying the country."



European Union :

On this November 18th, the European Union in Haiti wishes the Haitian people a wonderful commemoration of the 222nd anniversary of the Battle of Vertieres, a decisive battle that led to independence. Europe in Haiti pays tribute to this legacy and reaffirms its commitment to dialogue and cooperation with the Haitian people.



Port-au-Prince City Hall :

"On the occasion of the 222nd anniversary of the historic Battle of Vertieres, the Port-au-Prince City Hall wishes to honor the memory of all the heroes who participated in the great victory of the indigenous army, which thwarted all the plans of the white colonialists. Thanks to the courage of the women and men of the 'djougan' (a term referring to Haitian women and men) who stood up that day, we became a free people, one of the greatest historical models of the struggle for human rights in the world. This date should remind all Haitians, regardless of their ethnicity, who they truly are : a people who know what it means to fight for freedom and well-being. Let us remember Vertieres, let us remember our heroes. Let's take our destiny into our own hands to give the symbol of Vertieres the place it deserves. Let's put our country back on the path our ancestors always wanted to follow."



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The closures will take place gradually as fuel stocks are depleted. When a station displays the price 3.888 at the pump, it signals that fuel is no longer available. The figure appears due to a technical limit in the display system, which was unable to show four eights as initially planned by the company.

Teboil has begun shutting down its unmanned fuel stations across Finland after weeks of disruption to fuel deliveries caused by sanctions against its Russian parent company, Lukoil.

Stations will close gradually as fuel stocks run out, Teboil stated on Wednesday morning.

The closures affect Teboils 243 so-called cold stations, which operate without staff and serve customers primarily through self-service.

There is no plan to close stations operated by entrepreneurs, Teboil's communications director Toni Flyckt told Finnish news agency STT. He added that the announcement aimed to clarify to customers why prices were appearing as 3.888.

In total, Teboil operates 525 outlets in Finland, including cold stations, full-service petrol stations, and diesel terminals for heavy vehicles.

Fuel sales for cash ended across all stations in October. As cold stations run dry, they are expected to shut entirely. Flyckt said Teboil has advised customers that the displayed 3.888 price signals the end of fuel availability. If all fuel types at a cold station show the same price, the entire station has closed.

Teboil has not specified whether the affected stations will be fenced or guarded once closed but said it would prohibit unauthorised access and loitering.

The shutdown follows mounting difficulties in fuel supply and financial operations since the United States and the United Kingdom imposed sanctions on Lukoil over Russias war in Ukraine. In early November, Teboil confirmed to Helsingin Sanomat that it was winding down fuel storage and not expecting new shipments.

Flyckt has told Svenska Yle that the company continues seeking a way forward and has until mid-December to resolve the situation before full US sanctions take effect against Lukoil on 13 December. The deadline was recently postponed from mid-November, but financial operations remain frozen.

Earlier, the multinational energy group Gunvor attempted to acquire Lukoils shares in Teboil but withdrew its offer. One of Gunvors founders, Gennadi Timtshenko, is under Western sanctions, preventing the transaction.

Due to the sanctions, Lukoil has not been able to sell its international assets.

HT
The groups sustainability director Nina Elomaa confirmed to Iltalehti that the decision followed an assessment of the situation in September and the European Commissions proposal to freeze parts of the EUIsrael association agreement related to trade. She said the group will review the line again if the EU position changes.

SGroup has confirmed a decision to stop purchasing products of Israeli origin, ending the sale of a small number of items that have appeared in its shops in recent years. The move was made in September, but it became public only after discussion in the representative council of HOKElanto, the largest regional cooperative in the group.

The policy means SGroup shops do not stock fruit or vegetables sourced from Israel. The group has already sold through earlier batches. Elomaa said the remaining products of Israeli origin form a small list and will stay on shelves only until existing range periods end. Range periods are set agreements that define how long a product remains in the assortment and at which price.

The total selection of Israeli products has remained limited, and SGroup said it continues to honour earlier commercial commitments.

The decision reached public attention after a discussion in HOKElantos council earlier in the week. Green Party MP Alviina Alametsa, who sits on the council, welcomed the move and referred to an initiative she submitted last year calling for the removal of products linked to Israeli settlements.

Alametsa wrote on social media that the group had already acted on earlier geopolitical issues when it withdrew products of Russian origin after Russias assault on Ukraine. She compared the new move to those earlier steps.

The Commission proposal mentioned by Elomaa was presented in September. It would suspend tariff reductions granted to Israel under the EUIsrael agreement. The proposal does not introduce an import ban but raises duties on a significant part of Israels exports to the EU. The proposal came after continued military action by Israel in Gaza. Reports from UN investigators in September described acts in Gaza as genocide. Gazas health ministry has said more than 66 000 people have been killed since late 2023.

SGroup operates more than 1 000 shops across Finland under chains including Prisma, SMarket and Alepa. Its central purchasing arm, SOK, manages national procurement. A shift in sourcing policy affects all regional cooperatives.

Israeliorigin items currently visible on the groups online store include frozen crushed garlic, sets of finger paints, craft clays and Sodastream drink syrups. These items remain available until their range periods expire, after which they will disappear from the groups selections.

HT
Sources, including U.S news outlet Axios , Reuters and Financial Times , confirmed the framework is being developed through unofficial channels between former U.S. President Donald Trump s envoys and Russian officials.

The United States and Russia are preparing a new peace framework to end the war in Ukraine. The proposal, drafted largely without Ukrainian participation, calls for significant concessions from Kyiv, including territorial cessions, military downsizing, and political reforms recognising Russian interests.

The plan includes 28 points divided into four categories: peace in Ukraine, European security, post-war U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine, and guarantees related to Russias stated concerns.

According to the reports and European diplomatic sources, Ukraine would be asked to surrender all of Donetsk and Luhansk regions, grant official status to the Russian language, and legally recognise the Russian Orthodox Churchs position in the country.

Kyiv would also be required to reduce the size of its armed forces and relinquish a portion of its weapons, as well as accept an end to American military assistance. Ukrainian officials have not taken part in the drafting of the proposal.

The framework was expected to be delivered directly to President Volodymyr Zelensky, but a scheduled meeting with Trumps special envoy Steve Witkoff in Ankara on Wednesday was cancelled. Witkoff previously met with Zelenskys national security adviser Rustem Umerov in Miami earlier in the week.

On the Russian side, coordination is being led by Kirill Dmitriev, the head of Russias sovereign wealth fund. Dmitriev confirmed in an interview that he spent several days discussing the plan with Witkoff and believes the process reflects Russias interests more clearly than previous efforts.

We feel the Russian position is really being heard, Dmitriev told Axios. He described the initiative as building on an earlier understanding reached by Trump and President Vladimir Putin during their August meeting in Alaska.

The proposed deal goes beyond the war in Ukraine. It aims to reshape the broader security order in Europe and reset U.S.-Russia ties, according to information obtained by Axios from sources involved in the talks.

The White House has not commented publicly, but senior U.S. officials believe the timing is right for a deal and say both sides must be practical and realistic. According to a Politico report, the Trump administration expects Ukraine to accept the proposal, even without full European support.

Trump officials reportedly believe the agreement could be finalised within days or by the end of the month. Dmitriev also told Axios that the goal is to complete a document before a potential Trump-Putin summit, though no date has been set.

Zelensky has repeatedly stated that Ukraine will not agree to territorial concessions or disarmament. Ukrainian constitutional law prohibits ceding national territory, and previous proposals involving Russian language rights have been rejected.

Ukraines leadership views the proposed framework as unbalanced and aligned with Russian demands. Zelenskys government has not confirmed whether it will issue a formal response to the plan. His visit to Turkey this week was intended to bolster diplomatic support for Ukraines position, though no Russian representatives were present in Ankara.

Ukraine has proposed a freeze on current frontlines as the basis for negotiations, but not permanent territorial loss.

Some European capitals have expressed concern about the lack of transparency and direct involvement in the U.S.-Russia discussions. EU officials say they expect the plan to be formally shared before any commitments are made.

Ukrainian officials confirmed they are aware of the U.S. effort and have received informal messages, but said they were not invited to shape the proposals contents.

HT
The drive to strengthen transparency and accountability within Liberia's Legislature gained significant momentum on Thursday with the official launch of the Legislative Monitoring Coalition of Liberia (LEMCOL), a powerful alliance of civil society and media institutions committed to tracking legislative performance, promoting public participation, and advancing democratic governance.

The coalition, launched at a well-attended ceremony in Monrovia, brings together 16 civil society and media organizations working collectively to open up the Legislature to greater scrutiny.

The initiative is supported by the Netherlands Institute for Multiparty Democracy (NIMD) through the Liberia Electoral Support Project Plus (LESP+), which is co-funded by the European Union, Irish Aid, the Embassy of Sweden, and managed by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with UN Women.

Mr. B. McCarthy Weh II, Director of the Legislative Information Service (LIS), officially launched LEMCOL on behalf of the Institute for Democratic Action and Development (IDAD). In his keynote address, Weh hailed the coalition as a timely intervention in Liberia's democratic journey.

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"We gather here not merely to celebrate the establishment of an organization," he said. "We come together at a crucial juncture in our nation's history, one that demands our unwavering dedication to transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance."

Weh described LEMCOL as a "powerful commitment to building a more resilient democracy in Liberia," noting that the coalition will serve as a critical bridge between the Legislature and the public.

According to him, the LIS Liberia's non-partisan research arm for both the House of Representatives and the Senate plays a crucial role in providing lawmakers with credible data and analysis to guide policymaking. The addition of LEMCOL, he stressed, will expand citizen access to legislative information and strengthen oversight.

Reflecting on Liberia's governance challenges, Weh referenced a major turning point in 2013 when the U.S. Government suspended support to the Liberian Legislature due to its failure to demonstrate strong accountability and oversight standards. He suggested that the formation of LEMCOL is one of the strategic steps needed to rebuild trust.

"Collective initiatives such as this coalition are vital to restoring public confidence in the Legislature," he said.

Weh also revealed striking statistics about legislative turnover. Between 2011 and 2023, the National Elections Commission (NEC) declared 270 legislative seats vacant--210 in the House and 60 in the Senate. Of those, 64% of Representatives and 82% of Senators did not return to office, a trend he interprets as "a clear expression of citizens' growing demand for accountability."

"Information is power," Weh emphasized. "The more informed our citizens are, the more empowered they become to demand accountability from their representatives."

Delivering remarks on behalf of the Institute for Democratic Action and Development (IDAD), Executive Director Mr. Joseph Cheayan described the launch of LEMCOL as the culmination of months of dialogue and coordination among civil society and media actors facilitated by NIMD.

"LEMCOL brings together 16 organizations committed to monitoring legislative actions, promoting transparency, and strengthening evidence-based advocacy," Cheayan said. "Our shared vision is a society where legislative processes are open, accountable, and responsive to the needs of citizens."

Cheayan outlined the coalition's objectives, which include improving legislative transparency, enhancing policy advocacy, building institutional capacity, fostering citizen engagement, and promoting accountability across the Legislature.

"By organizing dialogues, monitoring budget performance, and promoting inclusive participation, we aim to ensure that governance truly reflects the will of the people," he added.

Speaking on behalf of NIMD, Mrs. Barwudu D. Williams, Program Assistant, reaffirmed the organization's commitment to supporting legislative openness in Liberia.

"This official launch marks a significant step in strengthening collaboration between civil society and the Legislature," Williams said. "We are optimistic that LEMCOL will build and sustain a productive working relationship that promotes openness and accountability."

Williams expressed gratitude to international partners--including the European Union, Irish Aid, the Embassy of Sweden, UNDP, and UN Women--for their ongoing support of Liberia's democratic governance.

LEMCOL's membership includes diverse civil society organizations and media institutions dedicated to improving democratic practices. The coalition focuses on transparency, participation, and inclusion--three core pillars of accountability.

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Stakeholders at the launch event hailed the coalition as an important step in ensuring that citizens are no longer distant observers but active participants in shaping legislative processes.

Representatives of the Legislature, civil society leaders, media practitioners, and development partners all attended the event, underscoring the broad support behind the coalition's mission.

As Liberia continues to build stronger democratic institutions, the launch of the Legislative Monitoring Coalition marks a renewed effort to ensure that legislative decisions reflect public interest.

Through coordinated monitoring, public dialogues, and evidence-based reporting, LEMCOL aims to empower Liberians with the information they need to hold their leaders accountable.

With the backing of major development partners and the active involvement of civil society and the media, the coalition is poised to become one of the most influential voices in promoting legislative accountability in Liberia.
High Stakes as Civilians Need Urgent Protection

The South Sudanese government has demanded that the United Nations drastically scale back its peacekeeping mission in the country (UNMISS), including withdrawing 70 percent of its international peacekeeping forces (though not regional forces), grounding its helicopters, and closing its operating bases and civilian protection sites. The call should ring alarm bells as civilians in South Sudan face grave abuses.

The UN's peacekeeping chief, Jean-Pierre Lacroix, warned the UN Security Council that gutting the peacekeeping force's presence in the country would jeopardize the mission and its mandate to protect civilians. The UN has already begun to roll out plans to close some offices, reduce staff, and cut back on the number of deployed peacekeepers in the country due to a funding crisis.

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The South Sudanese government has long resisted international scrutiny and obstructed UNMISS' work. And scrutiny in South Sudan is more important than ever, as civilians need greater protection. In September, UNMISS reported a twofold increase in the number of civilian casualties by warring parties compared with 2024.

In March, Human Rights Watch reported how government forces carried out aerial attacks using improvised incendiary weapons in Nasir, Longechuk, and Ulang counties, all in Upper Nile state, killing at least 58 people and severely burning many others. The government's airstrikes have hit civilian infrastructure, including a Doctors Without Borders-run hospital in Old Fangak, Jonglei state, in what the humanitarian organization called a "deliberate bombing."

Clashes between government and opposition forces in parts of Western Equatoria, Central Equatoria, and Upper Nile states have also led to killings, forced displacement, sexual violence, and grave violations against children by all sides, among others abuses.

South Sudan's humanitarian crisis also remains dire. The Integrated Food Security Phase Classification reported that 1.3 million people in South Sudan need urgent food aid, while residents of Nasir and Fangak are at risk of famine. The government has restricted aid access to conflict-affected areas controlled by opposition forces.

The UN Security Council should press South Sudan to end ongoing access restrictions and ensure UNMISS can safely operate. The council should also reject revisions to operational capacity and staffing that would dilute the mission's independence and weaken early warning, protection, and human rights monitoring functions. The stakes for civilians who have borne the brunt of abuse by warring parties couldn't be higher.

Nyagoah Tut Pur, Researcher, Africa Division
Japan must face consequences for dangerous provocations on Taiwan question

15:35, November 19, 2025 By Zhong Sheng ( People's Daily

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently made public remarks suggesting the possibility of military intervention in the Taiwan Strait, grossly interfering in China's internal affairs. Despite repeated representations from China, she has refused to repent for her blatant and provocative rhetoric, which represents a blatant violation of the one-China principle and the guiding principles set forth in the four China-Japan political documents. Her actions have gravely undermined the political foundation of China-Japan relations and severely offended the sentiments of the Chinese people.

Assertions by a handful of Japanese politicians that China is "overreacting" to Takaichi's erroneous comments are a misrepresentation of facts and a deliberate attempt to discredit China's legitimate and reasonable position. The Taiwan question bears directly on the political foundation of mutual trust between China and Japan.

In 1972, the two countries signed the China-Japan Joint Statement and officially established diplomatic relations, which states that the Government of Japan fully understands and respects this stand of the Government of the People's Republic of China, and it firmly maintains its stand under Article 8 of the Potsdam Proclamation. In 1978, the two countries signed the China-Japan Treaty of Peace and Friendship, which affirmed the principles and contents of the joint statement in legal terms and set out the legal parameters for China-Japan relations.

In 1998, the two sides released the China-Japan Joint Declaration on Building a Partnership of Friendship and Cooperation for Peace and Development, in which Japan undertook to "continue to maintain its stand on the Taiwan question which was set forth in the China-Japan Joint Statement" and "reiterated its understanding that there is one China."

In 2008, the China-Japan Joint Statement on All-round Promotion of Strategic Relationship of Mutual Benefit stipulated clearly in Article 5 that "The Japanese side reiterated that it will continue to abide by its position on the Taiwan question stated in the China-Japan Joint Statement."

The above is what is laid out in the four political documents between China and Japan regarding the Taiwan question. It constitutes the solemn commitment made by the Japanese government and has a legal effect under international law. There is no room whatsoever for ambiguity or misinterpretation. Whichever political party or person is in power in Japan, they must always abide by the commitment of the Japanese government on the Taiwan question.

Takaichi's statements fundamentally contravene the guiding principles set forth in these political documents and strike at the foundation of the China-Japan bilateral relationship. As the leader of a country, she should have exercised basic political responsibility and worked with China to promote the sound development of bilateral relations. Instead, shortly after expressing a commitment to the position outlined in the 1972 China-Japan Joint Statement, she irresponsibly claimed that a "Taiwan contingency" could be a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and implied that Japan may invoke the so-called right to collective self-defense to interfere militarily in the Taiwan Strait.

Such rhetoric is deeply corrosive to the political foundation of China-Japan relations. It reflects provocative strategic intentions and poses a serious threat to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and in the region. No sovereign nation can tolerate such flagrant interference in its internal affairs or accept threats of military action from foreign leaders.

Takaichi must take direct responsibility for the political damage her remarks have caused. The only responsible course for the Japanese side is to confront its historical and bilateral obligations with sincerity, cease inflammatory behavior, retract the erroneous statements, and take concrete steps to honor its commitments to China.

A sound and stable China-Japan relationship serves the interests of the Japanese people. Undermining bilateral ties not only runs counter to the prevailing regional and global trends but also lacks public and political support.

In recent days, the extreme and provocative moves of the Takaichi administration have triggered widespread criticism from insightful voices within Japan. Takakage Fujita, secretary-general of the Association for Inheriting and Propagating the Murayama Statement, stated that Takaichi's remarks violate international law and inflict serious harm on bilateral relations. An editorial in The Tokyo Shimbun criticized her comments as "reckless and careless," emphasizing that such statements are unacceptable from a sitting prime minister.

Numerous Japanese netizens have bluntly questioned Takaichi's diplomatic competence, urging her to retract her misguided remarks. Some Japanese people have even organized demonstrations to protest her irresponsible and provocative behavior. Japanese politicians should take these rational voices seriously and refrain from further escalating tensions along a dangerous trajectory.

On matters of fundamental principle, the Chinese people remain unwavering. The Taiwan question lies at the very heart of China's core interests. Any attempt to challenge this red line will be firmly opposed by the more than 1.4 billion Chinese people and the entire Chinese nation.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration to China.

As a former aggressor that inflicted innumerable atrocities in Taiwan, Japan bears a historical responsibility to reflect deeply on its past and exercise heightened caution in its approach to the Taiwan question. Aligning with forces that seek to divide China runs counter to the prevailing trend of peace and development. Should Japan persist in this course, it will inevitably bear the consequences of its actions.

(Zhong Sheng is a pen name often used by People's Daily to express its views on foreign policy and international affairs.)

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Liang Jun)
A nurse at a health clinic in eastern Lesotho holds blood samples due to be transported for testing (file photo).

Abrupt US aid cuts earlier this year caused havoc in the nation's health system

A new five-year health funding pact to stabilise HIV and TB care has been struck between the US and Lesotho after President Donald Trump made crippling aid cuts earlier this year.

More than 1,500 health workers were affected and 60% of Lesotho's HIV counsellors lost their jobs when USAID and PEPFAR funding was abruptly halted.

The US Embassy says the new agreement guarantees joint funding for frontline workers and essential medicines.

Implementation will only be from April next year.

A new five-year joint funding agreement between the United States and Lesotho promises to restore stability to a health system reeling from abrupt US aid cuts which led to the dismissal of hundreds of frontline workers and the shutdown of key HIV services.

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In a statement on Tuesday, spokesperson for the US Embassy in Maseru Jessica Tesoriero said the new bilateral framework will secure "joint funding for frontline healthcare workers" and ensure continued procurement of essential HIV and public-health commodities.

The pact will also preserve the country's disease-surveillance and data-monitoring systems, tools that nearly collapsed following the suspension of USAID and PEPFAR funds earlier this year.

Tesoriero said the memorandum of understanding, which builds on PEPFAR's 18-year partnership in Lesotho that helped Lesotho achieve "remarkable results in the fight against HIV/AIDS", is designed to move the country toward "a resilient, self-reliant, and durable health system" by combining US support with strengthened government ownership.

The agreement is to be signed in December, with implementation scheduled for April 2026.

The deal emerges from negotiations with a high-level US delegation led by Deputy Assistant Secretary for Health Policy and Diplomacy Mamadi Yilla. Senior officials from the US Department of Health and Human Services and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also participated.

Lesotho Health Minister Selibe Mochoboroane and Acting Minister of Finance and Development Planning Ntoi Rapapa led Lesotho's delegation. Faith-based organisations that provide life-saving care in Lesotho and representatives of The Global Fund also met the delegation.

Under the agreement, the US will provide technical assistance as Lesotho gradually assumes responsibility for managing core parts of its health system. This includes meeting a set of jointly agreed performance benchmarks.

Health system gutted by cuts

The new pact follows months of turmoil triggered when US President Donald Trump signed executive orders suspending foreign aid for 90 days.

The move abruptly halted funding that supported around 1,500 health workers, including doctors, nurses, laboratory staff, and counsellors. The health ministry was unable to prevent mass dismissals.

UNAIDS reported that by March 2025, 72% of PEPFAR support had been paused or terminated, resulting in 804 job losses. By June, at least 652 frontline workers had been laid off, including 60% of the country's HIV testing counsellors.

The funding collapse also slashed the health budget. Dr Tapiwa Turambiswa, who manages national HIV programmes, confirmed that 93% of USAID support and 6% of CDC funding had been cut, reducing total external assistance from roughly R1.4-billion to R600-million.

The consequences were immediate and severe. HIV testing numbers plunged from 11,702 in August 2024 to 9,054 in April 2025. Shortages of counsellors meant many tuberculosis patients, who are supposed to be tested for HIV, were no longer screened. (Lesotho's TB incidence is among the world's highest, at 664 cases per 100,000, and about half of patients also have HIV).

Prevention programmes were shuttered, including the M212-million (R1 = M1) USAID-funded SECURE project (condom distribution and medical male circumcision). The M168-million Bophelo Bo Botle programme, which supported more than 120,000 people on ARVs, was terminated.

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Millions more were lost for mental-health support, primary healthcare, pharmacy regulation, and disease-surveillance systems.

Although Mochoboroane publicly maintained that Lesotho could survive with a funding gap of R181-million, the widespread service shutdowns and mass retrenchments revealed deep vulnerabilities.

Tesoriero said the new agreement marks a return to a collaborative model "anchored in shared responsibility", with joint funding commitments and US technical support meant to ensure continuity of critical services while building long-term resilience.

For the thousands of Basotho who depend on HIV testing, treatment, TB screening, and primary healthcare, the agreement, though lacking in detail, offers the first signal of stability after months of uncertainty.
The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) The Gambia Monday evening celebrated 60 years of unwavering service in The Gambia, defined by enduring partnership with government of The Gambia.

In an event held at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, the country office of the UN agency rallied stakeholders from the Government and the private sector to celebrate decades of enduring service.

In his speech as the chief guest of honour, Vice President Mohammed B.S. Jallow hailed UNICEF's six decades of unwavering dedication, profound impact and a strong partnership that has been foundational to the development of Gambian children.

He said: "Sixty years ago, as The Gambia began its journey as an independent nation, UNICEF embarked on this journey alongside us. This is not merely a relationship; it is a diamond partnership forged in a shared vision and cemented by consistent action."

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On behalf of President Barrow, the Government and the nation, VP Jallow extended deep gratitude to UNICEF for its enduring presence, steady commitment, and contributions to the development of many generations of our population.

He added: "Looking back over these 60 years, the partnership's success stories are woven into the very fabric of our public service achievements, particularly in areas of health, education, justice, and child protection."

He underscored the critical support of UNICEF in the areas of health and education that had birthed great strides.

Madame Fatou Kinteh, minister for Gender, Children and Social Welfare, said it was an honour to be part of the celebration, saying that as minister, she had witnessed firsthand the interventions of UNICEF and has also closely worked with. She warmly congratulated the UNICEF Gambia team.

UN Resident Coordinator Mr Karl Fredeerick Paul underscored that as they commemorate 60 years of UNICEF in The Gambia and 80 years of UN globally, the gathering was not merely to celebrate history but to renew their covenant with the future. And that future has a face: it is the face of every Gambian child.

He hailed UNICEF for the remarkable milestone in the country over the past six decades.

Madam Ramou Ndure, UNICEF West and Central Africa deputy rep, described the day as a deeply personal moment, as she was born and raised in The Gambia, where she also began her UNICEF professional journey.

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She hailed the UNICEF Gambia team for the tireless effort, describing the partnership with Government as unique and fruitful.

Babacarr Sowe, speaker of the Children's National Assembly, delivered a compelling statement, not only calling stakeholders to action but also urging the inclusion of children in children-centred decision-making.

Ms. Nafisa Binte Shafique, country representative of UNICEF The Gambia, expressed gratitude to all the stakeholders who have been working with UNICEF over the years.

Gambia-China health cooperation strengthened amid training of 53 doctors

Niamina calls for better facilities, cattle drinking points
The Africa-Europe Foundation (AEF) calls for a new era in the relationship between Africa and Europe, one defined not by aid but by equitable investment, not by declarations but by measurable delivery. Produced by AEF together with the African Union Development Agency (AUDA-NEPAD) and more than 50 leading African and European research institutions, The State of Africa-Europe 2025 - Financing Our Future report outlines a pragmatic agenda for a partnership rooted in fairness, shared accountability and real outcomes.

On the eve of the 7 African UnionEuropean Union Summit in Luanda, the Africa-Europe Foundation (AEF) releases its flagship report for 2025, calling for a fundamental reset of how the two continents finance their future together. Africa and Europe represent 1.8 billion citizens and nearly 30% of UN member states, a collective weight capable of shaping global agendas, yet their financial cooperation remains under leveraged.

The Foundation urges both sides to move beyond short-term aid cycles and build a long-term framework for co-ownership and co-investment, where public and private capital combine to deliver impact at scale. A model which focuses on enhanced processes and smarter money, moving decisively towards value-building and innovative instruments that recognize no trade-off between climate ambition and human development.

The report is the most comprehensive assessment of its kind on Africa-Europe relations  with finance as the fil rouge that cuts across all thematic chapters, from health to transition minerals, ocean governance to creative industries. It comes at a symbolic moment when both Unions are expected to renew their political partnership 25 years since its inception.

The upcoming 7th AUEU Summit in Angola (24-25 November) must demonstrate a pivot from intent to implementation - where the partnerships vision becomes a delivery agenda. Commenting on the Summit, Paul Walton, Executive Director of the Africa-Europe Foundation: If Africa and Europe want to matter together, they must act together, step up at this defining moment of geopolitical change, and demonstrate real gains for the societies of both continents.

The State of Africa-Europe report, Financing our Future, is a call to focus on delivery, to build the tools, the trust and the tempo needed for measurable change - between Summits, not between generations. The report warns that Africa continues to lose almost $90bn every year through illicit financial flows, while critical sectors remain underfunded. It calls for better mobilisation of domestic resources and the reform of international financial systems so that economies can invest on their own terms and become more resilient.

This includes fully leveraging existing instruments such as sovereign wealth and pension funds, which hold together over $330bn in assets, and represent the largest source of investable capital in Africa. Health is presented as a defining test of this new partnership model. The report points to progress where vaccine production partnerships are building regional resilience, and describes additional joint investment in research and workforce capacity as an investment in mutual security and preparedness.

All are vital to create lasting value and prevent future pandemics, benefiting Africa and Europes aspirations for strategic autonomy. The same logic applies to energy and industrial partnerships. Africa receives less than 3% of global renewable energy investment, despite holding more than 60% of the worlds best solar potential.

Joint initiatives show how shared infrastructure can accelerate Africas industrialisation while supporting Europes climate transition and energy diversification. Together, Africa and Europe can help build the Global Green Economy, with the scaling of the Africa-Europe Green Energy Initiative as one of the most illustrative positive shifts in reconciling the climate-development nexus. The report also underscores the untapped potential of the blue economy, describing oceans as a shared frontier for prosperity.

Leveraging the Africa-Europe Ocean Roadmap as an operational blueprint for joint action on ocean governance, capacity sharing, finance and investment can support a sustainable ocean economy that benefits both continents.

Amid rising isolationism and a strained multilateral system, the report calls on Africa and Europe to step forward together as a stabilising force and an open cultural-economic artery - a partnership that strengthens international cooperation, drives long-term investment, and delivers a shared response to shared challenges. Recent AUEU cooperation and joint leadership on the Pact for the Future, the Pandemic Agreement, and Ocean Governance offer valuable lessons and momentum to work hand in hand on advancing global governance reforms and creating a shared long-term vision for the future of the multilateral order.

The Africa-Europe Foundation concludes that the time has come for the partnership to move from dialogue to demonstrable results. It calls for a permanent AU-EU think-tank mechanism to support progress and facilitate implementation between Summits.

Commenting on the report, Mo Ibrahim, Co-Founder of the Africa-Europe Foundation and Chair of the Mo Ibrahim Foundation, said : Our Report provides an operational blueprint for a new financial compact that moves decisively beyond aid towards co-creation, risk-sharing, value-building and trading resources. This means focusing on smarter money, not only more money, adapting financial tools, streamlining funding processes and assessing progress beyond the announcement of financial commitments and rather at impact level and direct benefit for our societies."

Nardos Bekele-Thomas, CEO of AUDA-NEPAD, added: At a time of global shifts, Africa and Europe need to wake up and realise our solidarity is needed more than ever to deliver results for our communities. To do that we must look beyond short-term gains at long-term transformational change and transform commitments into action. This is the DNA of our partnership with the Africa-Europe Foundation and provides the focus for our follow-up to the 7th AU-EU Summit

About the Africa-Europe Foundation :

The Africa-Europe Foundation (AEF) is the only organisation of its kind shared equally by stakeholders from both Africa and Europe. AEF is an independent platform for multi-stakeholder dialogue, frank debate and strategic analysis that brings together experts and leaders from diverse organisational settings to unlock new opportunities that can transform Africa-Europe relations into action. It acts as a think and do tank for the AU-EU Partnership, complementing existing institutional mechanisms and working in close cooperation with the AU/EU Member States and the Commissions in Addis Ababa and Brussels.

Visit: www.africaeuropefoundation.org

About the State of Africa-Europe Report:

This is the second edition of the State of Africa-Europe Report. The first edition, released in 2024, represented a first of its kind benchmarking exercise tracking commitments made at the 6th European Union-African Union Summit in Brussels in February 2022. The Africa-Europe Foundation - as an independent organisation  worked with the European Union and African Union, along with other interested stakeholders to gather, check and collate data on progress made - ranging from financial pledges to policy reforms, from peace and security to education and digital skills. Partner comments on the benchmarking report :

Arancha Gonzales, Dean of the Paris School of International Affairs at Sciences Po: When I read the Africa-Europe Foundation Report I realise how incredibly wide and deep the relationship is - this is what the Report is telling us: a story of more and deeper.

Dr Ngozi Okonjo-Iweal, Director General of the World Trade Organization: I welcome AEFs push to challenge these silos and demonstrate how working across silos, notably the climate-health-development nexus, must underpin all areas of the Africa-Europe partnership.

Koen Doens, European Commission Director General for International Partnerships: The work done on the Report is really remarkable. The Report of the Africa-Europe Foundation pushes us to look back but also pushes us out of the comfort zone. I think the report is really impressive from that point of view.

Mark Suzman, CEO of the Gates Foundation: This is a data rich report about the broad interactions between the EU and Africa that exhibits the relevance of the Africa-Europe Foundation as an independent organisation uniquely qualified to elevate the debate that still does not get enough public attention (...). The Africa-Europe Foundation deserves credit for honouring its pledge to monitor progress in the implementation of commitments made to advance the EU-AU agenda.
Uganda's coffee sector is mourning the passing of Dr. Emmanuel Iyamulemye, the former Executive Director of the Uganda Coffee Development Authority (UCDA), who died on the morning of November,18, 2025.

The news was confirmed by Minister of Agriculture Frank Tumwebaze, who posted a message of condolence on his X account, describing Dr. Iyamulemye as one of the strongest pillars of Uganda's coffee transformation.

Dr. iyamulemye served as a key architect of the Uganda Coffee Roadmap, the strategy that significantly boosted national coffee production and competitiveness. During his leadership, Uganda registered major growth in coffee exports and strengthened its position among the world's leading coffee origins.

He championed improvements in coffee quality standards, expanded extension services, and advocated globally for the recognition of African coffee varieties--most notably defending the value of Uganda's Robusta. His work in international coffee platforms elevated Uganda's profile and safeguarded the integrity of its coffees.

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Dr. Iyamulemye also played an instrumental role in diversifying Uganda's coffee markets, including opening new export opportunities such as the fast-growing market in China.

Robert Byaruhanga, President of the Uganda Coffee Federation, remembered him as a visionary leader and a dedicated advocate for farmers.

Dr. iyamulemye's death leaves a significant void in Uganda's coffee fraternity, where his influence and legacy will be felt for years to come.
The Federation for Uganda Medical Interns (FUMI) has demanded the urgent release of delayed allowances, accusing the Ministry of Health of breaching formal agreements and acting unconstitutionally after more than 180 interns went four months without pay.

In a letter dated 17 November 2025, addressed to the Attorney General, FUMI, an umbrella body representing over 2,300 medical interns across 74 centres states that the Ministry's actions amount to a violation of Public Service Standing Orders and an "unconstitutional move."

The organisation stresses that medical interns, often mistaken for students, are in fact fully trained professionals who have completed all academic requirements. They now serve a mandatory one-year apprenticeship under the Ministry of Health, working long hours that, in many cases, far exceed their contractual expectations.

"Medical interns have long been mistaken for students. We would like to clarify that none of the interns are active students," the letter reads.

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It adds, "These are professionals who have graduated or met all requirements to graduate from medical schools,"

According to FUMI, interns at various placement sites signed contracts entitling them to a monthly allowance of Shs 1 million.

However, FUMI alleges that the ministry has withheld these payments for close to four months, without issuing any formal communication to those affected.

The interns argue that this is a direct breach of contract and a violation of Public Service Standing Orders Sections, which define allowances as compensation for extra duties and out-of-pocket expenses incurred by public officers.

"The above makes the ministry's decision unconstitutional, as any civil servant who performs extra work for the government is entitled to allowances," FUMI states, adding that interns "often endure 36-48 hours of nonstop service" yet still receive allowances, not salaries.

The Federation revealed that it had engaged the Ministry on several occasions but received no "positive response."

As a result, it has appealed to the Attorney General to interpret the relevant sections of the Standing Orders and advise the Ministry accordingly.

"We appeal to your office to kindly interpret Public Standing Orders Sections E-a 1 & 2 and E-9... and offer formal guidance to the Ministry as feedback to us," wrote Secretary General Allan Okwir.

Okwir warned that litigation would follow if the issue is not resolved.

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This dispute follows years of tension between the government and medical interns over welfare, after the monthly allowance was reduced from Shs2.5 million to Shs 1 million, with repeated promises of arrears that have yet to be fulfilled.

Interns argue that, with overwhelming workloads and the high cost of living, the payments are essential for them to live and work effectively.
The Uganda Peoples' Defence Force (UPDF), working closely with the Regional Immigration Office in Mbarara, has formally handed over five Congolese soldiers to the Armed Forces of the Democratic Republic of Congo (FARDC). The repatriation took place at Kasindi, Lhubiriha, along the Uganda-DRC Mpwondwe border.

The soldiers handed over included Sgt. Kabangu Nsingi Jeancy (33), Cpl. Bloende Botelu Enoch (35), Pte. Nkonyi Ngumu Mbuya (26), Pte. Musungu Malu Beni (22), and Pte. Bakomba Mupepe Exauce (20).

The group fled the city of Goma in Eastern DRC following intensified fighting and later approached the Ugandan border, where security personnel intercepted them in the Mukongolo area before transferring them to Buhoma Police for screening.

Since July 2025, the UPDF has hosted the soldiers in line with International Humanitarian Law--particularly the principle of humane treatment for foreign military personnel entering another state--and in accordance with regional norms. All five were reported to be in good health, did not seek asylum, and voluntarily opted to return to their country.

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During the handover, Maj Gen Stephen Mugerwa, Commander of the UPDF Mountain Division, reaffirmed the strong relations between Uganda and the DRC.

"UPDF and FARDC continue to work closely as reliable partners in maintaining peace and stability across the region," he said.

Maj Gen Mugerwa added that the successful repatriation underscores Uganda's Pan-African spirit and continued commitment to regional solidarity, aligned with cooperation frameworks under the East African Community and wider continental agreements.

All legal and administrative procedures required for a safe and orderly repatriation were completed.

Representing the DRC government, Maj Gen Everiste Somo Kakule, Military Governor of North Kivu, commended the UPDF for the care extended to the FARDC soldiers while in Uganda and appreciated the cordial military-to-military relations between the two countries.

Those present included Brig Gen Mugisa Muleka Joseph, FARDC Sector Commander for the Northern Frontier, as well as immigration officials from both Uganda and the DRC.
The contested Uganda People's Congress (UPC) President General, Hon. Jimmy Akena, has embarked on a campaign of blaming President Yoweri Museveni for his recent political misfortunes. Akena missed the nomination deadline to stand as a presidential candidate for the 2025/26 elections due to a court ruling questioning his legitimacy as UPC party president. This ruling followed a petition filed by senior UPC officials, Joseph Othieno and Dennis Enap, who challenged his continued stay in office beyond the constitutionally mandated two five-year terms.

Strangely, after this internal party dispute, Hon. Akena has resorted to accusing President Museveni of frustrating his presidential ambitions and undermining Uganda's oldest political party. In what many observers consider exaggerated claims, he has publicly urged voters in the Lango Sub-region to reject President Museveni in the upcoming January 15, 2026, elections.

In a communication dated September 22, the Electoral Commission (EC) clarified that Akena's term as UPC President had expired on August 1, 2025, and therefore, he lacked the mandate to stand as the party's flagbearer. Akena's troubles were engineered by his own party colleagues, who sought to prevent his attempts to amend the party constitution and secure a third term. To them, Akena is running UPC as though it were his father's personal estate.

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Speaking in Lira City during a homecoming event arranged by some loyalists, Akena accused the government of interfering with institutions to weaken UPC's influence. These comments followed the EC's decision to disqualify him and other UPC leaders from taking part in the presidential elections. Addressing supporters for the first time since the ruling, Akena insisted that his struggle is far from over.

"Today, I decided to start with a gospel song, and the message is that my tomorrow must be greater than today. Whatever they do to me, whatever they say, I am moving ahead for a better tomorrow," Akena said. He then knelt during the national anthem in protest, urging UPC supporters to emulate the gesture as a symbol of resistance. He further claimed that he alone held the "MasterCard" capable of denying President Museveni the 50+1 victory required for an outright win.

First and foremost, Akena does not own the mind and soul of the people of Lango. He seems trapped in the shadow of his late father's near-cult-like status during his years as President of Uganda. Hon. Akena has failed to recognize that his father's generation is long gone. Today's voters rely on their own judgment, and they know too well what President Museveni has done for the Lango Sub-region. This is demonstrated by the overwhelming NRM victory in the 2021 general elections, where the party secured over 70% of the vote. It is therefore unlikely that Lango will be swayed by Akena's misleading rhetoric.

Akena's blame game amounts to pure escapism. No sensible Ugandan can accept such excuses. What Akena owes his party and the nation is an apologyfirst, for violating the UPC constitution, and second, for causing the internal turmoil that left the party without a presidential candidate in the 2025 general elections.

To salvage his image, Akena and his legal team have now filed a petition challenging the Electoral Commission's decision in hopes of being reinstated as the legitimate party president and included on the ballot paper. How this will be achieved remains uncertain, given that reports indicate presidential ballot papers are already being printed.

Like many leaders on the continent, Hon. Akena seems to have an inflated perception of himself, and the arrogance that accompanies it appears to have consumed him. He imagines that things must always bend to his will. His attempts to run UPC as his personal enterprise lie at the heart of the party's current crisis.

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Leaders of his generation must demonstrate discipline and integrity, as they serve as role models for many who look up to them. Yet Akena insists that the government orchestrated his downfall because of his "oppositionism."

Though Akena is undeniably a prominent son of Lango, he must work on his attitude and behavioural competencies. These qualities have been the downfall of many public figures, and Akena appears no exception. Whatever direction this episode takes, Akenaand others who think like himshould draw important lessons.

Hon. Jimmy Akena should simply eat the humble pie and accept his fate. Making a mistake is human, but insisting on that mistake becomes a grave offense. We all err, but we must learn to take responsibility and, where necessary, offer a sincere apology. Akena, this is one of those moments where one cannot wriggle out through blame or theatrics.

The writer is the Acting Executive Director, Uganda Media Centre
Police in the Rwizi region have arrested a man linked to a recent incident of animal theft following a successful K9-led operation in Kiruhura District.

The suspect, Joshua Nuwamanya, a resident of Akabaare Cell in Sanga Town Council, was apprehended on 16 November 2025 after a police sniffer dog tracked a scent trail from the crime scene directly to his home.

According to police, the incident occurred at around 6:00am when Aggrey Nayebare, a resident of the same village, went to check on his kraal and discovered blood scattered around and several of his animals missing.

"When I reached the kraal, I found blood everywhere. My goats and sheep had been slaughtered, and three of my sheep were missing,"

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Nayebare told police in his statement.

Alarmed by the discovery, he rushed to Sanga Police Station to report the theft. Police swiftly deployed investigators together with the K9 unit to the scene.

Upon arrival, officers examined the area and introduced the sniffer dog, which immediately picked up a scent and followed it for nearly 70 metres, leading the team straight to the suspect's residence.

Police say the suspect was found at home, and several pangas, believed to have been used in the slaughter, were recovered as evidence.

A police officer involved in the operation noted the effectiveness of the dog:

"The K9 unit played a pivotal role in identifying and trailing the suspect. The dog's accuracy helped us recover crucial evidence that links the suspect to the crime."

Nuwamanya was arrested and is currently detained at Sanga Police Station, where he is assisting with ongoing investigations.

Regional security officials say the arrest is part of intensified operations aimed at curbing rising cases of livestock theft in the Rwizi cattle corridor, an area that has long struggled with livestock-related crime.

Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to help combat the vice.
Songstress Irene Ntale has urged unmarried women involved with married men to respect committed relationships.

Speaking on Diaspora Connect UG, Ntale questioned why women who claim they do not want marriage would still pursue husbands.

"I do not want anything to do with side chicks. Leave our husbands, if you do not want marriage, why are you going for someone else's husband? Just stay where you are and love each other," she said.

Her comments come at a time when the phenomenon of "side chicks" in Uganda appears to be increasing.

Often associated with women who engage in relationships with married men, this trend has been amplified by social media influence, urban nightlife, and economic pressures.

Many women are drawn into these relationships for financial support or lifestyle reasons, creating tension in households across the country.

Ntale, who tied the knot with Vincent Kalibbala on October 17, 2025, at St. Mary's Cathedral, Rubaga, shared her message as a newly married woman protecting her home.

The couple this year held a traditional introduction ceremony in Kulambiro, Kampala, before celebrating their church wedding.

Her message reflects a growing frustration among women who feel that side-chick culture is threatening relationships in modern Uganda.

"Marriage is a commitment, and it deserves respect," Ntale said.
As Uganda marked World Premature Day, doctors at Kampala Hospital called on pregnant women to begin antenatal care immediately after confirming pregnancy, warning that late visits contribute significantly to preventable premature births.

This year's World Premature Day theme, "A Healthy Beginning and a Hopeful Future", highlights the urgent need for timely pregnancy monitoring. Globally, 1 in 10 babies is born premature, and in Uganda, approximately 200,000 babies--over 14% of all births arrive before term each year.

Premature births remain a leading cause of neonatal mortality in the country, although survival rates are improving thanks to advances in medical care.

Dr. Peter Kibuuka, CEO of Kampala Hospital and Senior Consultant Obstetrician and Gynecologist, emphasised that the care of premature babies begins long before birth, starting from early antenatal care, maternal monitoring, proper nutrition, and timely administration of medications to the mother.

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"Identifying and managing risk factors such as hypertension early can significantly reduce the likelihood of premature births," he explained.

Dr. Kibuuka added that the hospital has invested heavily in incubators, specialised equipment, and medications--with costs exceeding shs 100 million --to improve survival rates for preterm infants.

However, he stressed that adequate human resources and skilled personnel are just as critical. "Collaboration is essential to make care for premature babies more accessible, effective, and financially sustainable for families," he noted.

Dr. Nuriat Nambooze, a pediatrician at Kampala Hospital, noted that many expectant mothers arrive at medical facilities only after complications have advanced, including high blood pressure, untreated infections, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes, and other risk factors that could have been addressed earlier.

"Most pregnant women who delivered prematurely had attended fewer than two antenatal visits," Dr. Nambooze said.

"Early checkups allow us to detect risks before they worsen and significantly reduce the chances of premature delivery."

The rise in premature births in Uganda has been linked to maternal conditions such as pre-eclampsia, infections including malaria and urinary tract infections, stress, multiple births from IVF fertilisation, and socioeconomic challenges.

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Dr. Nambooze emphasised that early and timely antenatal care is crucial. Kampala Hospital has improved care for preterm babies to the point where infants born as early as 24 weeks now have a high chance of survival. Proper hospital delivery, professional healthcare providers, life-supporting machines, and neonatal specialists are critical to safeguarding these vulnerable babies.

Mothers also need physical and emotional support to care effectively for their newborns. With continued awareness, early antenatal care, and improved medical technology, Uganda is gradually improving outcomes for its tiniest fighters.
Chinese "lunar soil bricks" return from space, paving way for construction on moon

Xinhua) 16:06, November 19, 2025

WUHAN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China has inched closer toward its ambitious goal of building infrastructure on the moon, as the first set of experimental "lunar soil bricks" returned to Earth after a year-long exposure to the harsh environment of space.

The bricks, part of a pioneering experiment aboard China's space station, arrived last week on the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. Experts confirmed that the sample unit was in good condition following initial inspections.

This signals an engineering progress in China's long-term lunar program, which includes landing astronauts on the moon by 2030 and constructing a basic model of the International Lunar Research Station by 2035.

The experiment began in November 2024, when the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship ferried the simulated lunar-soil samples up to the space station. A total of 74 small bricks were designed to be mounted on an external exposure platform on the station's exterior.

Planned as a three-year study, the project will see the return of sample batches after one, two and three years for detailed analysis, according to the team led by Ding Lieyun, a scientist at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.

By analyzing the chemical fingerprint of authentic lunar specimens brought back by China's Chang'e-5 mission, Ding's team engineered a regolith simulant and pressed it into bricks through hot-press sintering.

They opted for volcanic ash from Changbai Mountain in northeast China's Jilin Province, which closely mirrors the composition of lunar regolith.

The resulting blocks share the density of conventional bricks, yet boast more than triple their compressive strength, remaining stable across the moon's brutal temperature swings, ranging from minus 190 Degrees Celsius to 180 Degrees Celsius, and under constant cosmic radiation.

"For constructing lunar scientific facilities, utilizing locally-sourced materials from the moon is the preferred approach," Ding said.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese masonry techniques featuring mortise-tenon joint structure, the team has developed a way to sinter simulated moon dust into bricks of various sizes. The sintering process is expected to be powered by concentrated solar energy on the moon.

They also developed a robotic system to handle the assembly like LEGO blocks, with the final step involving the use of 3D printing to reinforce the structure.

Next, the scientists plan to analyze the returned bricks to understand how the space environment has altered their structure and properties.

This data is vital for creating accurate models to predict the long-term durability and behavior of such materials in the actual lunar environment, providing the scientific foundation for future extraterrestrial construction.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening land governance and protecting vulnerable communities from unlawful evictions, officials announced on Monday during the closure of the decade-long Response to Land Policy in Uganda (RELAPU) project.

Speaking at the event held at Speke Resort Munyonyo, Minister of State for Lands Sam Mayanja highlighted the transformative impact of government land policies and programs on Uganda's development outlook.

He emphasized that issuing certificates of occupancy and customary ownership goes far beyond administrative paperwork.

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"We are producing security, peace, and wealth. A certificate of occupancy in the hands of a widow is a shield to disposition," he said.

Mayanja noted that initiatives under RELAPU have empowered households to invest in land, access credit, and resolve longstanding disputes. With the focus increasingly shifting from Mailo land to customary holdings, the government has advanced secure land tenure nationwide.

"Responsible land policy in Uganda has turned land security into a practical economic tool. We have documented more than 111,000 households, giving communities the confidence to invest. Women can farm without fear of eviction, farmers can plan long-term, and local systems are stronger at preventing land grabbing and resolving disputes," he added.

RELAPU team leader Daniel Kirumira outlined the program's milestones since its launch in 2016, noting that it issued over 10,800 Certificates of Customary Ownership, more than 500 Certificates of Occupancy on private Mailo land, and supported 111,000+ households through Land Inventory Protocols. The program also facilitated nearly 900 tenancy agreements in refugee-hosting areas and resolved 82% of documented land-related conflicts.

These achievements were made possible through institutional capacity building, digital land service delivery, customary land documentation, community sensitization, and grievance-resolution mechanisms. RELAPU also strengthened secure land access in refugee-hosting districts, promoted responsible investment, and enhanced advisory capacities for land governance across Africa.

Officials emphasized that secure land rights remain both a legal safeguard and an economic catalyst--unlocking access to credit, boosting productivity, and reinforcing local governance structures.

The Commissioner of Land Registration, Joseph Ssembatya, noted that many land disputes stem from complexities within Uganda's tenure systems. However, decentralizing registration and strengthening zonal offices have significantly reduced conflicts.

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The announcement comes as the government enforces new eviction regulations, which ban all non-court-sanctioned evictions and require that any approved eviction must occur in daylight and in the presence of local police--providing stronger legal protection for communities against unlawful dispossession.

As the RELAPU program concludes its decade-long mission, the government says it remains committed to advancing responsible land governance, empowering citizens, and fostering inclusive development across Uganda.
Peachtree Group ("Peachtree") announced the grand opening of the Tru by Hilton in Huntsville, Ala. The 98-room hotel, located at 7206 Cabela Drive NW, was developed by Peachtree and is the sixth property the firm completed and opened this year. Peachtree's hospitality management division will operate the hotel.

The hotel is situated in one of the most dynamic technology and defense hubs in the Southeast and was constructed in a Qualified Opportunity Zone ("QOZ"). It is strategically located within a mile of Boeing, NASA and the FBI's Huntsville campus and sits next to an office park that houses major government contractors, including Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman and the United States Army base, Redstone Arsenal, all of which contribute to Huntsville's strong economic growth.

Guests will experience a modern, efficient design with open social spaces, complimentary breakfast, a 24/7 market, a fitness center and lounge areas that reflect the Tru by Hilton brand's focus on comfort and connectivity.

Opportunity Zones were created as part of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, which designated low-income census tracts as QOZs. Peachtree has supported the program since its inception, strategically allocating capital to spur economic development and advance its goal of revitalizing underserved communities.

Among the most active hotel developers in QOZs, Peachtree has opened 12 hotels with three under construction and three more in the pipeline.

Peachtree's hospitality management division operates premium, branded hotels across the upper midscale and upscale segments, including limited-service, select-service and compact full-service properties. The division manages 113 hotels across 29 brands nationwide.

Hotel website
The BodyHoliday Algarve, opening in 2029, will redefine wellness travel as a five-star sanctuary set amid the untouched beauty of Portugal's Eastern Algarvejust forty-five minutes from Faro International Airport. Discovered by Barnard during his frequent journeys through Portugal, the site occupies a rare and tranquil setting next to the scenic and vast nature reserve of The Ria Formosa, with a three-minute walk through beautiful protected dunes providing direct access to the beach of 'Praia da Lota'celebrated for its golden sands and serene, crystal waters.

BodyHoliday in St Lucia has been a pioneering concept in the hotel industry since it first opened in 1988. Famed for its unique approach to health, fitness and wellbeing BodyHoliday continues to deliver on its promise 'Give us your body for a week and we'll give you back your mind'. With its unparalleled range of fitness classes, activities, spa therapies and beauty treatments, the 155-room resort and four villas offer guests everything from archery to scuba diving, spinning to Pilates, Ayurvedic treatments to Reiki. BodyHoliday holds a number of feature programs throughout the year including September Solos, Jive-June, WellFit Tribes, boot camps and yoga retreats. For more information visit www.bodyholiday.com.

Hotel website

BodyHoliday Algarve

Vila Nova de Cacela, 8900

Portugal Hotel Website
Dominus Hospitality has appointed William Hunter as General Manager for The Derby London City, Curio Collection by Hilton, one of London's most anticipated hotel openings in February 2026.

Hunter brings over 15 years of experience across Hilton's London portfolio, having first launched his hospitality career through the Hilton Graduate Management Programme.

His tenure includes Food & Beverage and Front of House leadership at The Trafalgar St. James London and DoubleTree by Hilton London Docklands Riverside and, as well as senior management positions at The Westminster London, where he most recently served as Hotel Manager.

Throughout his career, Hunter has played a pivotal role in shaping operations at some of Hilton's most distinctive city properties. He has successfully steered teams through major refurbishments and brand transformations, including two rebrands into the Curio Collection by Hilton at The Westminster London and The Trafalgar St. James London. These achievements highlight his strength in brand repositioning and operational strategy. Hunter will now bring his invaluable experience to launch The Derby London City, marking it as the 10th Curio Collection by Hilton in the UK.

The Derby will join a portfolio of award-winning hotels - owned by Dominus and managed by its hotel platform Dominus Hospitality - that operate under global brands including Hilton and Marriott. Dominus has over 1,700 keys in its existing hotel development pipeline across London, with plans to work with investment partners to scale this further.

Building a best-in-class team is a priority for Hunter, starting with the appointment of Edward Field as Cluster Director of Sales & Marketing who brings a wealth of Hilton experience across London and Europe. There are a number of key hires underway including Operations Manager and Head Chef who will bring Rycrofte's Restaurant, Coffeehouse and Bar to life, which will serve British classics with a twist.
Emerging Travel Group (ETG), a global travel company operating the RateHawk, Roundtrip, and ZenHotels brands, has announced a new direct partnership with H10 Hotels Group, one of the leading Spanish hotel chains. Under the agreement, H10 Hotels properties will be available directly for Emerging Travel Groups B2C audience, securing distribution to over 20 million monthly guests worldwide.

H10 Group offers travelers various kinds of accommodations, including premium seafront hotels, all-inclusive resorts and contemporary luxury properties. The partnership covers the entire collection of more than 65 properties, across brands including H10 Hotels, The One By H10 Hotels, Ocean Signature Resorts, H10 Horizons Collection. The company operates in 25 destinations across Europe and in the Caribbean, with the majority of accommodations located in Spain, Italy, Portugal, Germany, the UK, Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.

Previously available through third-party providers, H10 properties will now benefit from direct integration, securing advanced booking management, payment, and marketing tools that simplify operations and increase visibility.

Spain is leading the list of top booked destinations on our platforms, with bookings to the country up by 25% year-over-year. To meet this growing demand and further enhance our portfolio of directly contracted properties, we continually expand our partnerships with leading properties in the region. Collaboration with H10 Hotels Group is an important milestone that enables us to offer our audience an even wider selection of high-quality accommodations. Demand for H10 Hotels Groups properties has always been strong among our clients, and we expect that this integration will make the inventory more accessible for our clients and enable our hotel partner to reach a broader audience and increase their bookings. Victoria Shamshurova, Interim Managing Director for Wholesaler Business Unit at Emerging Travel Group

The integration is enabled through Spanish technology provider Connectycs.

Emerging Travel Group provides its customers and partners with access to more than 2.9 million accommodation options available through direct connections and more than 330 suppliers. Since 2023, the company has been actively expanding its direct supply connection strategy. Over the past year, the number of directly connected properties has grown by 40%, reaching over 220,000 listings. In 2024, Emerging Travel Group achieved a gross transaction value of $3.7 billion. Over 40,000 bookings are made across the Groups platforms daily.

Emerging Travel Group is a UAE-based online travel group founded in 2010 that operates travel brands for individual travelers, B2B travel professionals, and corporate customers in over 190 source markets.

Our products help clients book all types of travel services: more than 2.9 million hotels from over 220,000 properties contracted directly, flight tickets of 450 airlines, transfers in 150 countries, car rental, and other travel-related services.

Emerging Travel Group employs more than 3,900 people across the USA, Europe, North and South America, the Middle East, and South Africa in roles ranging from product and business development to specialized multilingual customer support for all our customers, whether they are trade partners, corporate travelers, or individuals simply booking their hotels online.
Novotel, a leading global hotel brand with 600 hotels in 68 countries, has become the first hospitality brand to join the Seafood Task Force (STF).

This milestone reinforces Novotel's leadership in sustainable hospitality and builds upon the brand's comprehensive three-year ocean commitment and partnership with WWF, launched in June 2024.

The collaboration with the STF will initially focus on enhancing supply chain transparency and promoting the sustainable sourcing of tuna and farmed shrimp across three key Southeast Asian markets - Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia - engaging Novotel hotels in the region. These commodities were identified as priorities by mapping Novotel's key sourcing volumes against regions with elevated sustainability and social risks.

The STF brings together members of global tuna and shrimp supply chains, serving more than 350 million customers globally and helping businesses enhance supply chain oversight and ensure ethical production from vessel to plate. All STF members work to produce fully traceable, ethically produced, and environmentally responsible seafood, meeting international social and environmental standards, while advancing industry-wide due diligence requirements.

Novotel's membership extends the brand's Sustainable Seafood Principles, which were introduced earlier this year in collaboration with WWF France. These principles include banning more than 350 endangered seafood species from menus by 2027, serving only MSC-certified wild-caught species or responsibly sourced local fish, and using ASC- or organic-certified farmed seafood for salmon and shrimp.

Joining the Seafood Task Force represents a critical next step in Novotel's journey toward complete seafood traceability and sustainability. We are proud to lead the industry in taking concrete action to protect our oceans by becoming the first hospitality brand to become a member. Through our partnership with the STF, our teams across Southeast Asia will have access to world-class expertise and practical tools to drive meaningful change in how we source tuna and farmed shrimp. This commitment is embedded in our broader ocean roadmap, which aims to make Novotel best-in-class in reducing environmental impact. Nadege Keryhuel, Global Vice-President Novotel brand

The STF membership complements Novotel's existing seafood sustainability initiatives, including: a Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) launched in Q1 2025 in Kerala, India, focused on Indian squid; a partnership with Seafood Souq across 18 hotels in the Middle East to enhance traceability; a focus on farmed shrimp traceability in Brazil.; and a seafood taskforce procurement project in Europe, working with five seafood suppliers to improve supply chain transparency.

Novotel's broader ocean commitment encompasses four key pillars: reducing plastic and carbon footprint impact; delivering delicious, healthier and more sustainable food choices; enhancing education and ocean awareness; and contributing to research and innovation through support of five WWF France marine conservation projects worldwide.

Since Novotel launched its partnership with the WWF in 2024, Novotel has rolled out Ocean Awareness Training for all 600 hotel teams globally, and supported WWF-led initiatives such as Posidonia seagrass protection, ghost gear (abandoned fishing nets) removal, marine turtle tracking, and the Blue Panda research vessel.

We are excited to welcome Novotel as the first hospitality brand to join the Seafood Task Force. The hospitality sector plays a vital role in driving demand for sustainable seafood and Novotel's commitment to transparency and continuous improvement across their Southeast Asian operations demonstrates true leadership. We look forward to working closely with their teams to implement practices that not only benefit their operations but also contribute to healthier ocean ecosystems and more resilient fishing communities across the region. STF Executive Director, Martin Thurley

About Accor, a world-leading hospitality group

Accor is a world-leading hospitality group offering stays and experiences across more than 110 countries with over 5,600 hotels and resorts, 10,000 bars & restaurants, wellness facilities and flexible workspaces. The Group has one of the industry's most diverse hospitality ecosystems, encompassing around 45 hotel brands from luxury to economy, as well as Lifestyle with Ennismore. ALL, the booking platform and loyalty program embodies the Accor promise during and beyond the hotel stay and gives its members access to unique experiences. Accor is focused on driving positive action through business ethics, responsible tourism, environmental sustainability, community engagement, diversity, and inclusivity. Accor's mission is reflected in the Group's purpose: Pioneering the art of responsible hospitality, connecting cultures, with heartfelt care. Founded in 1967, Accor SA is headquartered in France. Included in the CAC 40 index, the Group is publicly listed on the Euronext Paris Stock Exchange (ISIN code: FR0000120404) and on the OTC Market (Ticker: ACCYY) in the United States. For more information, please visit group.accor.com or follow us on X, Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and TikTok.
Sydney, Australia - Online travel agencies (OTAs) have overtaken search engines as travellers' primary starting point for hotel discovery, according to SiteMinder's Changing Traveller Report 2026, released today. Twenty-six percent of travellers surveyed will now begin their hotel research on an OTA, up from 18% last year, while those who will start with a search engine have fallen to 21% from 36%.

Word-of-mouth recommendations from friends and family have doubled from 7% to 14%, familiar hotel brands have grown from 3% to 7%, while AI use as a discovery starting point has reached 4%, up from 1% last year  rising higher among Gen Zs and Millennials.

The hotel discovery landscape is more dynamic than it's ever been before. Not only is the starting point of research diversifying, but travellers are moving more seamlessly between channels, often using several simultaneously to build confidence in their choices. This non-linear journey has become the natural rhythm of modern travel planning. Trent Innes, Chief Growth Officer at SiteMinder

While AI remains an emerging channel for initial hotel discovery, the technology is set to rapidly transform the broader booking journey. Eighty percent of travellers now want AI-powered capabilities, with price monitoring and alerts (44%) leading their wishlist, according to SiteMinder.

The report, the world's largest consumer research on accommodation, surveyed 12,000 travellers across 14 countries including Australia, China, France, India, Spain, Thailand, the UK and the US.

It also revealed that:

The world's 'dream destinations' are holding steady: Japan (17%), the US (10%), and France (10%) maintain their top positions for 2026, while South Korea has jumped to fourth (9%), driven by K-culture's growing influence.

The OTA-to-direct pathway is strengthening: 18% of travellers who begin their search on an OTA will ultimately book directly with their hotel, a pattern increasing by 3.3 percentage points, year-on-year.

Event-driven travel is accelerating: 63% are more likely to travel for special events next year, led by Gen Z (81%) and Millennials (74%) travelling for concerts and festivals.

Quality is being prioritised on-site: 58% plan to choose superior or luxury rooms (+4pp year-on-year), suggesting a shift toward more meaningful, elevated experiences.

Dynamic pricing is gaining acceptance: 65% of travellers now support demand-based pricing, while 42% would pay more for accommodation in popular destinations if it helped to reduce overtourism.

These behavioural shifts are happening alongside a renewed appreciation for travel, according to SiteMinder. Nearly half (49%) of respondents report a stronger desire to travel in the next 12 months, with just 12% indicating lessened interest.

Separately, the report uniquely highlights how guests from different markets will approach their pre-arrival journey and on-site experience in the year ahead. For example, it reveals that Chinese travellers will book deluxe rooms and favour well-known hotel chains more than any other group, and that Spanish travellers will prioritise customer service above all markets. Indonesians will be the most likely to book via an OTA and American guests will again lead in direct hotel bookings and domestic travel, often returning loyally once they find clear value.

This new research reinforces a critical truth , adds Innes, there is no single formula for capturing demand in the current travel landscape. Travellers across markets are shaping their journeys in increasingly distinct ways  from how they discover hotels online to the experiences they prioritise once they arrive  and it's the hotels best positioned to anticipate and respond to these vast differences that will be most effective in finding and maximising their ideal guests in the year ahead.

SiteMinder's Changing Traveller Report 2026 is available here.

About SiteMinder

SiteMinder Limited (ASX:SDR) is the name behind SiteMinder, the world's leading hotel distribution and revenue platform, and Little Hotelier, an all-in-one hotel management software that makes the lives of small accommodation providers easier. The global company is headquartered in Sydney with offices in Bangalore, Bangkok, Barcelona, Berlin, Dallas, Galway, London, Manila and Mexico City. Through its technology and the largest partner ecosystem in the global hotel industry, SiteMinder generates more than 125 million reservations worth over US$50 billion in revenue for its hotel customers each year. For more information, visit siteminder.com.

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San Diego, CA / Athens, Greece - Cloudbeds, the intelligent unified platform powering hotel growth, today announced a reseller partnership with HIT Cloud, the newest member of HIT Group of Companies, the leading Greek hotel technology house.

The partnership marks a significant step forward in Cloudbeds expansion in Europe, reinforcing the companys commitment to empowering hotels in two of the regions most vibrant and fast-evolving travel markets. By joining forces with HIT Cloud, Cloudbeds will bring its award-winning, unified platform to a broader audience of hotels and lodging operators, offering an integrated approach to operations management, revenue optimization, online distribution and guest engagement.

With decades of experience thats earned the trust of hotels across the mid- and upper-market segments, HIT Group has built a strong reputation for reliability, deep market knowledge, and long-standing relationships within the Greek and Cypriot markets. Through this new collaboration, HIT Group will now expand its reach to serve all accommodation types, including hostels, bed & breakfasts, vacation rentals, and boutique hotels.

The new partnership has already earned recognition, receiving the Silver Award in the Best Greek Hotel Innovation & A.I. Technology Supplier category at the Greek Hospitality Awards, highlighting the joint ambition of contributing to the digital transformation of hospitality in Greece.

Partnering with HIT Cloud allows us to combine their proven local expertise with Cloudbeds innovative technology to better serve hoteliers across Greece and Cyprus. Together, were bringing the future of hospitality technology to a market that values quality, service, and long-term relationships. Linda Vallner, Vice President of EMEA at Cloudbeds

Cloudbeds represents the next generation of hotel technology. Its powerful, unified platform allows us to deliver innovative solutions that meet the diverse needs of every accommodation business. Were proud to bring such a forward-thinking platform to one of the largest tourism markets in the world. Lambros Lambrianakis, General Manager at HIT Group

As Greece and Cyprus continue to embrace digital transformation in the tourism sector, the Cloudbeds - HIT Cloud partnership ensures that local hotels have access to the best tools and expertise they need to succeed today and in the future. HIT Cloud will exhibit at XENIA from November 2224, 2025, at the Metropolitan Expo in Hall 1, booths D35E37 and D36E38.

About Cloudbeds

Cloudbeds is hospitality's only intelligent growth engine  a unified platform trusted by the world's most ambitious hoteliers across 150 countries. Built to challenge the limits of outdated tech stacks, Cloudbeds connects operations, revenue, distribution, and guest experience in one powerful, intuitive system. The platform is enhanced with Signals, a hospitality AI model giving hoteliers the power to anticipate demand, run smarter operations, and craft more personal, profitable guest journeys at scale.

Founded in 2012, Cloudbeds has earned top honors from Hotel Tech Report (Top PMS, Hotel Management System, and Channel Manager, 20212025), the World Travel Awards (World's Best Hotel PMS Solutions Provider, 2022), and Deloitte's Technology Fast 500 (2024). For more information, visit www.cloudbeds.com.

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Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH), one of the world's largest and most successful lodging franchisors, today announced plans to enter the African market with the signing of three directly franchised properties in Kenya that are expected to open in early 2026. The company also signed a master development agreement that will drive further expansion in the continent with a minimum of 15 additional properties across the sub-Saharan and southern Africa regions by 2030.

The Kenyan portfolio will feature an Ascend Collection property in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, one of Africa's most visited safari destinations. The hotel will offer boutique, upscale accommodations for travelers seeking an immersive nature experience. Two additional hotelsa Clarion hotel and a Quality Inn hotel will open in Nairobi's central business district. The hotels will serve growing demand for both business and leisure travel in one of the continent's most dynamic cities. The hotels will also grow the number of destinations available through Choice Privileges, the award-winning loyalty program that enables members to earn and redeem points at over 7,100 hotels worldwide, including more than 1,000 international properties.

Our international business represents the most significant growth opportunity for Choice Hotels, and we've built a scalable global platform that will accelerate our gains in the near future. Our fast-growing footprint and performance results prove that Choice Hotels is well-positioned to help franchisees succeed in more destinations than ever before. Entering Africa is an important milestone in that journey and presents a unique opportunity to bring our world-class hospitality to one of the continent's fastest-growing hospitality markets. Pat Pacious, President and Chief Executive Officer

Aniket Shroff, who currently franchises with Choice Hotels in the U.S., is leading this development, marking his first venture with the company internationally.

Working with Choice Hotels was an easy decision , said Shroff. Beyond a strong global brand portfolio, the company provides the tools, resources, and guidance that have already helped me grow my business. That level of support gives me confidence these hotels will thrive, and it reflects the kind of franchisee partnership built to succeed in both international and domestic markets.

The addition of the three hotels in Kenya further strengthens Choice Hotels' Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) portfolio, which now approaches 64,000 rooms and has grown by 7% year-over-year as of Q3. This expansion follows robust growth across the region, including the doubling of the company's portfolio in France through the addition of 50 Quality Suites hotels.

The new properties also extend Choice Hotels' streak of new market entries worldwide. Earlier this year, the company announced a significant expansion in China through a master franchise and distribution agreement with SSAW Hotels & Resorts, adding more than 9,500 rooms to Ascend Collection Hotels and committing to grow Comfort Hotels and Quality to 100 properties in the country. The company also established a new presence in Argentina and Suriname with the addition of Radisson Blu Bariloche, Radisson RED Funes in the greater Rosario area, along with the opening of Radisson Hotel Paramaribo .

As Choice Hotels grows its presence in new markets, we're creating more opportunities for our franchisees to thrive. It's a testament to what sets us apart: We deliver the brands and support systems designed to help our franchisees achieve growth and profitability globally. Ricardo Losada Revol, Senior Vice President & General Manager, International

As a result of its development momentum, Choice Hotels' international division now generates approximately $3 billion in gross rooms revenue and is on track to double profitability by 2027. With its continued expectation of achieving high single-digit international room growth this year, Choice Hotels remains confident in the accelerated expansion of its international portfolio, which now exceeds 150,000 rooms outside the U.S. The company continues to be actively engaged in long-term opportunities to further scale its global footprint and broaden market share across high-value regions. Additional achievements for its international portfolio in the last year include:

The debut of its extended stay business in Australia with the launch of MainStay Suites . This marked the brand's first expansion outside of North America and grew Choice Hotels' Australian portfolio to 7,487 rooms and 163 hotels, solidifying the company's position as one of the largest direct franchise players in this market.

This marked the brand's first expansion outside of North America and grew Choice Hotels' Australian portfolio to 7,487 rooms and 163 hotels, solidifying the company's position as one of the largest direct franchise players in this market. The acquisition of its remaining stake in Choice Hotels Canada, transitioning to a direct franchising model and positioning the company for new levels of growth. Choice Hotels' Canadian portfolio includes 355 hotels and more than 26,000 rooms, with more than 2,800 rooms in the pipeline as of Q3 2025.

A 20-year renewal of its master franchise agreement with Atlantica Hospitality International in Brazil, which encompasses 70 hotels with more than 10,000 rooms across segments.

About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) is one of the largest lodging franchisors in the world. The one to watch in upscale and a leader in midscale and extended stay, Choice has nearly 7,500 hotels, representing more than 630,000 rooms, in 45 countries and territories. A diverse portfolio of 22 brands that range from full-service upper upscale properties to midscale, extended stay and economy enables Choice to meet travelers' needs in more places and for more occasions while driving more value for franchise owners and shareholders. The award-winning Choice Privileges rewards program and co-brand credit card options provide members with a fast and easy way to earn reward nights and personalized perks. For more information, visit www.choicehotels.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This communication includes "forward-looking statements" about future events, including anticipated development and hotel openings. Such statements are subject to numerous risks and uncertainties, including construction delays, availability and cost of financing and the other "Risk Factors" described in our Annual Report on Form 10-K and our Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, any of which could cause actual results to be materially different from our expectations.

Addendum

This is not an offering. No offer or sale of a franchise will be made except by a Franchise Disclosure Document first filed and registered with applicable state authorities. A copy of the Franchise Disclosure Document can be obtained through contacting Choice Hotels International at 915 Meeting Street, Suite 600, North Bethesda, Maryland 20852 or by email at: [email protected].
Rosen College is expanding its leadership in hospitality analytics and technology through the appointment of Associate Professor Mehmet Altin as the HFTP Professor of Hospitality Financial Management and Technology. The professorship strengthens Rosen Colleges growing focus on data, innovation, and the future of decision-making in a global industry that is rapidly evolving.

Altin has spent the past decade shaping how Rosen College students understand performance analytics, revenue management, business intelligence, and entrepreneurship. His work bridges research and practice, using quantitative and mixed-methods approaches to study how hospitality organizations make strategic decisions and how data influences performance. He has authored or co-authored more than 80 scholarly publications, with his research appearing in the leading journals in hospitality and tourism.

Finance and technology are now inseparable in hospitality , Altin said. Understanding how data informs strategy, operations, and the guest experience is key to developing the next generation of industry leaders. HFTPs continued support helps make that possible.

The professorship is supported by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), an international organization recognized for advancing the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry. HFTPs relationship with Rosen College dates back to the mid-2000s with the establishment of the original endowed professorship held by Stephen LeBruto, an HFTP Paragon Award recipient.

The renewed support reflects a shared investment in preparing Rosen College students to navigate an industry defined by innovation, analytics, and emerging technologies. It also reinforces Rosen Colleges academic strength, which includes a No. 1 global ranking for hospitality and hotel management by CEOWorld magazine and recognition among the top programs internationally in the ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

Located in the center of Orlandos tourism corridor, Rosen College continues to build programs, partnerships, and research that shape the future of hospitality and tourism.

Originally distributed by the Rosen College of Hospitality Management at the University of Central Florida.

About HFTP

Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), established in 1952, is a hospitality nonprofit association headquartered in Austin, Texas USA with an offices in the EU. HFTP is recognized as a group supporting the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry with an international network of members and stakeholders. HFTP offers expert networks, educational resources, career development programs, research, leadership opportunities and conferences and events. HFTP produces international events throughout the year, including the world's largest hospitality technology tradeshow and conference brand: HITEC. In addition, it oversees the publication of the Uniform System of Accounts for the Lodging Industry (USALI), Hotel Online and Hospitality Upgrade Magazine. For more information about HFTP, visit www.hftp.org.

Eliza Selig

Chief Marketing Officer

+1 512 220 4026

HFTP
The Hospitality Professionals Association (HOSPA) celebrated another record-breaking attendance at its annual conference, HOSPACE 2025, which took place on 13th November at the Royal Lancaster London  marking the 20th edition of the flagship event.

This years HOSPACE brought together more than 600 hospitality leaders, professionals and innovators from across the UK and beyond. The event was packed with insightful sessions and thought-provoking discussions, supplemented with invaluable networking opportunities, which, once again, served to reinforce HOSPACEs status as the premier forum for addressing the current and future challenges of the hospitality industry.

The conference featured a series of stimulating sessions covering critical issues affecting the sector, including economic trends, technology advancements, security, ESG and commercial leadership.

The conference opening saw Harry Murray (HOSPA President) deliver an uplifting keynote, reflecting on the leadership and resilience shown in the sector amidst ongoing challenges. He paid tribute to Jane Pendleburys 10 years of leadership at HOSPA, underscoring the importance of focusing on solutions and developing talent through apprenticeships, before highlighting the rising opportunities for accessible hospitality. Please add something about Chris Cowls speaking as the new Chair of HOSPA

Jane Pendlebury then did her customary address, before economist Thomas Pugh from RSM UK, provided a macroeconomic analysis tailored to the hospitality sector, offering delegates a deeper understanding of the trends likely to impact the industry in 2026. Pugh pointed to positive growth in the UK at the start of 2025, citing a 1.1% increase in consumer spending, but also highlighted potential challenges  including the anticipated rise in taxes and a difficult autumn budget. Before hospitality data, provided by the likes of BDO LLP, Barclays, HotStats and Venue Performance, helped paint a broader overview of sector performance for those in attendance.

Another highlight of the day was the Leaders Panel, which saw top executives, including Andrew Stembridge from Iconic Luxury Hotels, Guillaume Marly from Waldorf Astoria London Admiralty Arch, Louisa Green from RBH Hospitality Management and Anne Golden from Pan Pacific London, discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in hospitality. The panel emphasised the importance of empathy and collaboration when it comes to leadership, as well as offering an open-door policy in developing the next generation of hospitality leaders.

Inspirational Finance Leader of The Year Award Sponsored by BDO  Jans Mazurs, Regional Director of Finance, Grosvenor House Suites

Inspirational Revenue Manager of The Year Award Sponsored by Right Revenue and Edwards & Finn  Rebecca Downey, Head of Managed Retail & Digital Marketing, Robinsons Brewery

Inspirational Technology Leader of The Year Award Sponsored by Exponential-e  Gavin Allison, Global Head of IT, Lore Group

Inspirational ESG Leader of The Year Award Sponsored by Clean The World  Mark Cox, Director of Engineering, Cheval Collection

Inspirational Commercial Leader of The Year Sponsored by Infor & Touchstone  Katie Niland, Commercial Director, The Belfry Hotel & Resort

The conference, supported by its headline sponsors Access Group and Agilysys, was packed full of learning with other sessions focused on broad topics, including guest understanding, the value of your meeting and events business, risk responsibility and Martyns Law. Various voices contributed from across the field of hospitality, including brands such as Clermont Hotels, Park Plaza Hotels, Radisson Hotels, Edgbaston Stadium, Gough Hotels, Imperial London Hotels, Firmdale Hotels and more.

A series of workshops aimed at tackling industry challenges also offered insight into the latest hotel management technology, featuring input from companies such as Alkimii, Sona, Apaleo, Shiji and Agilysys. The important topic of tips, service charges and troncs was also addressed by Moore Kingston Smith while Net Affinity highlighted its work with the Headland Hotel in Cornwall. All of the panel discussions and more will be available to watch on the HOSPACE website in the next few weeks, via www.hospace.org.

HOSPACE 2025 showcased the best of our industry, as well as shining a light on its future-focused spirit. This years event conducted important conversations on key topics, including AI, revenue management, sustainability and leadership, imparting a mix of practical advice and broader understanding and knowledge. We were delighted by both the strong showing and the high calibre of discussions that unfolded this year, which all served to underline how HOSPACE is a must-attend gathering for hospitality professionals. A huge thank you to our incredible HOSPA team, our sponsors, exhibitors and the Royal Lancaster London for helping make HOSPACE 2025 such a remarkable success. Jane Pendlebury, HOSPA CEO

The event also raised 2,403 for Hospitality Action, which supports those who work or have worked in the hospitality industry in the UK.

HOSPACE 2025 continues HOSPAs mission to connect, educate and inspire the hospitality community, with positive feedback from delegates underscoring the value of this gathering. For more information on HOSPA or to stay updated on upcoming events, please visit: www.hospa.org

About HOSPA

HOSPA  the Hospitality Professionals Association  is a not-for-profit educational organisation formed to bring together professionals involved in all things commercial within the hospitality industry in the UK. HOSPA is recognised as the UK's authoritative voice in the hospitality industry on financial management, technical accounting issues and the leading arena for debate on investments, hospitality technology developments, revenue management and marketing. For more information, visit: www.hospa.org
Last month, Sam Altman sat down with economist Tyler Cowen and outlined how ChatGPT will transform hotel booking. Not someday. Now.

Travelers will book based on trust, not paid placement. Transaction fees instead of ad auctions. Real recommendations instead of sponsored results.

If that sounds futuristic, check the calendar.

ChatGPT launched Apps in October 2025. Not a feature update. A new distribution channel that reached 800 million users on day one. As PhocusWire reported, Expedia and Booking.com were first in line. They built Apps that plug their inventory directly into ChatGPT conversations.

According to McKinsey's Remapping Travel with Agentic AI report, AI mentions in major travel companies' annual reports jumped from 4% in 2022 to 35% in 2024. AI-focused travel startups now attract 45% of sector funding, up from just 10% in 2023.

As we outlined in our analysis, this is hotels' iPhone moment. When the App Store launched in 2008, it reached 6 million users. ChatGPT Apps launched to 800 million. That's 133 times larger, on day one.

What Altman actually said

When Cowen mentioned he'd used ChatGPT to find hotels across France and Spain, Altman explained why this behavior is spreading.

ChatGPT would consistently be reported as a user's most trusted technology product from a big tech company, Altman said.

Trust changes behavior. When travelers trust the answer, they book what AI recommends.

Altman contrasted this with search engines where "advertising-based ranking models can sometimes elevate lower-quality hotels simply because they pay for visibility." ChatGPT surfaces hotels "based purely on reviews, relevance, and the user's needs, free from paid placement."

But here's what hotels miss: ChatGPT can't recommend you the way you want unless you control the conversation through a direct App connection.

Apps vs content: Why this isn't SEO 2.0

Here's the critical distinction.

This isn't about optimizing content so ChatGPT can find you. That's hoping AI scrapes the right information and represents you accurately.

That's not control. That's luck.

The App approach is different. When you build a direct connection through MCP protocol, you control:

Your descriptions (not scraped OTA text)

Your imagery (not generic photos)

Your pricing (real-time, accurate, direct)

Your availability (live inventory)

Your booking flow (direct to your site)

When a traveler asks "Find me a boutique hotel in Lisbon with a heated pool and gym for under $300," AI platforms prioritize Apps with structured, verified, real-time data. Scraped content loses. Direct App connections win.

McKinsey's research shows 59% of travel executives credit AI with increased productivity. Yet only 2% of travelers currently let AI book on their behalf.

That 2% is about to explode. And AI will recommend hotels based on who built the best App infrastructure, not who has the best content.

From search to apps

Google took eight years to dominate travel search. ChatGPT did it in two. Hotels that build App connections now will define how AI understands their brand. Those that wait will get reduced to scraped blurbs and generic OTA descriptions.

Once AI platforms form preferred data sources through App partnerships, those preferences harden. Early movers lock in visibility.

The real problem

Imagine a traveler asks ChatGPT to find hotels, compare options, and book. They see two, maybe three recommendations.

If you don't have an App connection, your website doesn't matter. Your brand doesn't matter. You're not ranking lower. You're excluded entirely.

OTAs built Apps first. Hotels that wait are stuck playing catch-up while distribution partners own the conversation.

Three questions every hotelier should ask

Can AI assistants find my property? Try asking ChatGPT or Claude about hotels in your area. If you're not mentioned, that's your signal. How am I being described? If AI pulls text from OTAs or old listings, you've lost control of your narrative. Can guests book my propertydirectly through AI? If not, you're already losing bookings to properties with App infrastructure.

What App infrastructure actually means

Think of it as a new engine alongside your website and booking engine:

Your website is for human visitors

Your booking engine handles transactions

Your AI App layer is for intelligent agents representing travelers

It's not marketing technology. It's infrastructure. The way your property talks to AI platforms through structured data channels.

What comes next

Altman's booking vision isn't hypothetical - user behavior is shifting.

He outlined the business model: taking "the same cut that it would take from any other hotel" with "nothing that influenced it, but there's some sort of transaction fee."

The tech is ready. Consumers are ready. The only variable is whether hotels build App infrastructure or hope content optimization is enough.

It's not.

Treat this like SEO 2.0 and you'll enter with the wrong strategy. Treat this like the App Store moment it actually is and you'll build infrastructure that puts you in control.

AI became the new front door. Apps are the key. Build yours before your competitor builds theirs.

Now is the time to build your hotels app infrastructure

Lighthouse Connect AI connects your property directly to ChatGPT, Perplexity, Claude, and the next wave of AI platforms through MCP protocol. We build the infrastructure so you control the conversation, own your data, and stay competitive.

This isn't content optimization. It's a direct connection infrastructure.

Book a demo to understand the App approach and start building your AI presence with Lighthouse, today.

About Lighthouse

Lighthouse is the leading commercial platform for the travel & hospitality industry.

We transform complexity into confidence by providing actionable market insights, business intelligence, and pricing tools that maximize revenue growth.

We continually innovate to deliver the best platform for hospitality professionals to price more effectively, measure performance more efficiently, and understand the market in new ways.

Trusted by over 70,000 hotels in 185 countries, Lighthouse is the only solution that provides real-time hotel and short-term rental data in a single platform. We strive to deliver the best possible experience with unmatched customer service. We consider our clients as true partnerstheir success is our success.

For more information about Lighthouse, please visit: https://www.mylighthouse.com.
Dr. Mehmet Altin - Image Credit HFTP



Associate Professor Mehmet Altin has been named the new HFTP Professor of Hospitality Financial Management and Technology, advancing Rosen Colleges focus on analytics, innovation, and industry leadership.

Rosen College is expanding its leadership in hospitality analytics and technology through the appointment of Associate Professor Mehmet Altin as the HFTP Professor of Hospitality Financial Management and Technology. The professorship strengthens Rosen Colleges growing focus on data, innovation, and the future of decision-making in a global industry that is rapidly evolving.

Altin has spent the past decade shaping how Rosen College students understand performance analytics, revenue management, business intelligence, and entrepreneurship. His work bridges research and practice, using quantitative and mixed-methods approaches to study how hospitality organizations make strategic decisions and how data influences performance. He has authored or co-authored more than 80 scholarly publications, with his research appearing in the leading journals in hospitality and tourism.

Finance and technology are now inseparable in hospitality, Altin said. Understanding how data informs strategy, operations, and the guest experience is key to developing the next generation of industry leaders. HFTPs continued support helps make that possible.

The professorship is supported by Hospitality Financial and Technology Professionals (HFTP), an international organization recognized for advancing the finance and technology segments of the hospitality industry. HFTPs relationship with Rosen College dates back to the mid-2000s with the establishment of the original endowed professorship held by Stephen LeBruto, an HFTP Paragon Award recipient.

The renewed support reflects a shared investment in preparing Rosen College students to navigate an industry defined by innovation, analytics, and emerging technologies. It also reinforces Rosen Colleges academic strength, which includes a No. 1 global ranking for hospitality and hotel management by CEOWorld magazine and recognition among the top programs internationally in the ShanghaiRanking Global Ranking of Academic Subjects.

Located in the center of Orlandos tourism corridor, Rosen College continues to build programs, partnerships, and research that shape the future of hospitality and tourism.

This article originally appeared on Rosen College.
Sleep Inn & Suites Valdosta, Georgia - Image Credit DSH Hotel Advisors



DSH Hotel Advisors has brokered the sale of the 71-room Sleep Inn & Suites in Valdosta, Georgia, for $5.2 million to Falak Properties, LLC.

DSH Hotel Advisors, a hotel brokerage firm, has completed the sale of the Sleep Inn & Suites located in Valdosta, Georgia. The property, comprising 71 rooms across three stories, was sold for $5.2 million to Falak Properties, LLC. The seller was 1031 Specialists Processor, LLC.

Dennis S. Hopper, Vandan A. Patel, and Randy B. Taylor of DSH Hotel Advisors managed the transaction. The firm reported significant interest from investors nationwide, with over 120 signed confidentiality agreements and 5 competitive offers. The sale was finalized at the asking price, attributed to the property's recent renovations and strategic location.

The Sleep Inn & Suites Valdosta is situated off Interstate 75, offering high visibility and easy access to nearby attractions, including Wild Adventures Theme Park and Valdosta State University. Recent upgrades to the property include new carpeting in guestrooms and hallways, updated lobby seating, bathroom tiling, and new air conditioning units. These improvements position the hotel as a turnkey or conversion opportunity below replacement cost.

The Valdosta hotel market benefits from steady growth in Lowndes County, with projections indicating robust year-over-year performance. The sale reflects continued investor interest in well-positioned, interior-corridor hotels, as the hospitality market adapts to changing conditions.
MainStay Suites Launches in Australia with Seven New Properties - Image Credit Choice Hotels Visit



Choice Hotels International has announced plans to open three franchised properties in Kenya by early 2026, marking its entry into the African market.

Choice Hotels International has revealed its strategy to expand into the African market with the signing of three franchised properties in Kenya. The company expects these hotels to open by early 2026. This move is part of a broader plan to increase its presence in the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.

The Kenyan portfolio will include an Ascend Collection property located in the Maasai Mara National Reserve, a popular safari destination. Additionally, a Clarion hotel and a Quality Inn hotel will be established in Nairobi's central business district. These developments aim to cater to both business and leisure travelers in the region.

In conjunction with the Kenyan projects, Choice Hotels has signed a master development agreement to add at least 15 more properties across sub-Saharan and southern Africa by 2030. This initiative aligns with the company's strategy to accelerate growth in emerging markets.

The expansion into Africa is part of Choice Hotels' ongoing efforts to increase its international footprint. The company's EMEA portfolio currently includes approximately 64,000 rooms, up 7% year-over-year as of the third quarter. This follows other international expansions, such as the doubling of its portfolio in France with the addition of 50 Quality Suites hotels.

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Earlier this year, Choice Hotels also announced a significant expansion in China through a master franchise and distribution agreement with SSAW Hotels & Resorts. This agreement added over 9,500 rooms to the Ascend Collection Hotels and committed to growing the Comfort Hotels and Quality brands to 100 properties nationwide. The company has also entered new markets in Argentina and Suriname.

Choice Hotels' international division is projected to generate approximately $3 billion in gross rooms revenue and aims to double its profitability by 2027. The company expects high single-digit international room growth this year, with its international portfolio now exceeding 150,000 rooms outside the United States.

Recent achievements in the company's international expansion include the launch of its extended-stay business in Australia with the debut of MainStay Suites, the acquisition of its remaining stake in Choice Hotels Canada, and a 20-year renewal of its master franchise agreement with Atlantica Hospitality International in Brazil.
Williamstown Projects Awarded $835K in State Funding

WILLIAMSTOWN, Mass.  The Town of Williamstown has received a total of $835,000 in state grants to advance major community improvement and tourism initiatives in town.

The commonwealth has awarded $500,000 through the Community One Stop for Growth program to support the Main Street Corridor Improvements Project. The One Stop program funds local efforts across Massachusetts that promote housing, economic development, and community revitalization.

Town Manager Robert Menicocci hinted at the grants at an October meeting.

Revitalizing the Town Green

The Williamstown project will improve bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure and bring ADA compliance to the Main Street (Route 2) corridor  from the Field Park rotary east through the intersection with Water Street (Route 43). The project is currently in the design phase.

This stretch of Main Street, including the green space on both sides, is town-owned land that runs through the center of Williams College. The Town Green serves as the College's "front lawn" and the busiest roadway in Williamstown  vital to the daily lives of residents, students, and visitors alike. However, the corridor's current design lacks bicycle accommodations and creates multiple pedestrianvehicle conflict points. In addition, the decrease of the historic tree canopy and the presence of overhead utility lines have diminished the area's visual character.

Over the past five years, the Town and the College have developed planning documents that identify this corridor as a key barrier to safe and efficient movement through town. The redesign aligns with three major recent planning efforts: The Williams Campus Plan, The Williams College Landscape Study, and Envisioning Williamstown 2035, which is the Town's master plan.

The project will bury overhead utilities, restore a resilient tree canopy, enhance pedestrian and bicycle access, and calm traffic. Together, these improvements will create a safer, more accessible, and more beautiful gateway connecting the campus, town center, the Clark Art Institute, and the new Williams College Museum of Art (WCMA), scheduled to open in 2027 at Field Park rotary.

"We are excited to bring back the historic beauty of the Town Green while also improving accessibility and multimodal transportation," said Andrew Groff, Community Development Director. "This grant will help us reach MassDOT Project Initiation and open the door to additional funding opportunities to see the project through to completion."

Additional Local Grants Support Tourism and Recreation

In addition to the One Stop award, three Williamstown organizations received funding through the Massachusetts Office of Travel & Tourism's Destination Development Capital Grant Program (DDC):

Purple Valley Chapter of the New England Mountain Bike Association (NEMBA) was awarded $55,000 to develop the Purple Valley Trails network on Berlin Mountain.

The Clark Art Institute received $125,000 for a new Security Video Surveillance and Recording System.

Williamstown Rural Lands was granted $155,000 for the Sheep Hill Campus Renovation.

The DDC program supports projects that strengthen local economies by enhancing tourism infrastructure, expanding destinations, and building community resilience.

"These grants reflect the strong partnership between the Town, Williams College, and our community organizations," said Town Manager Bob Menicocci. "Together, we're building a Williamstown that offers an even better quality of life for residents, faculty, students, and visitors alike."
Cheshire Police Chief on Unpaid Leave Following Arrest

CHESHIRE, Mass.  The town's police chief, Michael Alibozek, was placed on unpaid leave Friday after being arrested the week before on charges of soliciting sex for a fee.

He was initially placed on paid administrative leave; however, The Berkshire Eagle reported that following an executive session Friday, this had been changed to unpaid.

Alizbozek pleaded not guilty last week and was released on personal recognizance. Former Police Chief Timothy Garner, who retired in 2022, was named interim chief, Select Board Chair Shawn McGrath said. Garner had initially been named as administrative consultant.

According to the Berkshire District Attorney's Office, 53-year-old Alibozek, of Adams, was arrested by the Berkshire State Police Detective Unit and assisted by troopers from the Cheshire State Police Barracks.

Alibozek was taken into custody in the parking lot of Hoosac Valley Middle and High School at approximately 9:45 p.m. on Thursday, Nov 6. He had been communicating online with an undercover State Police detective, according to the DA's office.

Following the arrest, Alibozek was relieved of duty and placed on paid administrative leave by the town administrator and the McGrath. His town-issued firearm and access to the police station were seized.

Alibozek was hired as police chief in 2022 to replace Garner, after serving on the force for five years. A sergeant at the time, he was one of two finalists interviewed for the post.
Berkshire Agricultural Ventures Hires New Development Director

GREAT BARRINGTON, Mass.  Berkshire Agricultural Ventures (BAV) announce the hiring of Kristen Moriarty as the nonprofit's new Development Director.

"We are thrilled to have Kristen in this crucial role," said Executive Director Rebecca Busansky.

"Kristen brings a wealth of development expertise, extraordinary interpersonal and relationship-building skills, and a passion for creating more vibrant and resilient local communities. In addition, she has a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and has already brought leadership and thoughtfulness to these vital aspects of our work at BAV."

Moriarty joined BAV from Shakespeare & Company in Lenox where she held positions in development and program management. At BAV, Moriarty leads a multi-pronged fundraising effort, including cultivating and stewarding individual donors, orchestrating donor events, and overseeing BAV's grant portfolio of private and corporate foundations.

"I am delighted to join BAV's outstanding team to build support and capacity for the organization," said Development Director Kristen Moriarty. "I am deeply impressed by the work BAV is doing to strengthen local farms and food businesses and expand local food access. Food is fundamental  and it begins with our farmers. It is exciting to bring donors and funders into our work, especially at this moment in time. I am honored to continue growing BAV's base of support so that we can sustain and amplify our impact  with local farmers, local communities, and local economies."

Moriarty previously held leadership roles at Shakespeare & Company, serving as Senior Manager of Individual Giving and as Program Manager for the Center for Actor Training. She is a professional actor and an acting teacher as well as a development officer. Her background also includes event management, sales supervisory experience, and copywriting/content creation. She lives in Lenox with her husband and two daughters. Moriarty served for four years as PTO President at Morris Elementary in Lenox, among other commitments.

Moriarty began her role at BAV earlier this fall. In tandem with her hiring, BAV added a Program and Development Associate to support development efforts and expand capacity for farmer-focused programming. Based in Great Barrington, BAV has a staff of nine and serves farmers in parts of Massachusetts, Connecticut, and New York.
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Eighteen leaders of a prominent Chinese underground church have been formally arrested, an advocate for a Christian NGO has confirmed, meaning they will now face trial and potential prison sentences of up to three years.

This development follows a significant crackdown on Chinese Christians, the largest of its kind since 2018, which saw nearly 30 pastors and staff from Zion Church  an unofficial 'house church'  detained nationwide in mid-October.

Among those currently held in detention centres in the southern city of Beihai is the church's founder, Pastor Jin Mingri.

Beihai police could not be reached for comment, and China's ministry of public security did not immediately respond to a faxed request.

While five individuals were released in October, and a further four support staff granted bail around 10 November, the remaining 18 have now been formally charged with illegally using information networks.

This information was provided by Bob Fu, founder of the Christian NGO ChinaAid, who maintains close contact with the families of the detained pastors and Zion Church leadership.

The crime carries a prison sentence of up to three years.

open image in gallery The head pastor of the Zion church in Beijing, Jin Mingri, in the congregation hall of the unofficial Protestant house church in Beijing, China ( REUTERS )

After a criminal suspect is detained in China, their formal arrest marks the beginning of a criminal investigation leading to trial, a process which could take over a year in complex cases.

Jin, 56, was able to meet his lawyer on 14 October, after the case started receiving foreign media attention, Grace Jin said. She previously told Reuters that her family was worried about the health of her father, who requires medication for diabetes, and the detainees' access to lawyers.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio condemned the detentions and called for the immediate release of the group last month.

The crackdown on Zion Church came a month after new rules from China's top religion regulator banned unauthorised online preaching or religious training by clergy, as well as "foreign collusion".

China has more than 44 million Christians registered with state-sanctioned churches, the majority Protestant, official figures show.

But tens of millions more are estimated to be part of illegal "house churches" that operate outside the control of the ruling Communist Party, according to thinktanks and NGOs.

open image in gallery Police officers guard at the main entrance door to a building where Zion church is located after the church was shutdown by authorities in Beijing ( Associated Press )

Zion Church, with about 5,000 regular worshippers across nearly 50 cities, rapidly added members during the COVID-19 pandemic through Zoom sermons and small in-person gatherings. The church was founded by Jin, also known as Ezra, in 2007, after he quit as a pastor for the official state-controlled Protestant church.

A graduate of the elite Peking University, Jin converted to Christianity after witnessing the 1989 Tiananmen crackdown, a spokesperson for the church has said.

In 2018, police shut down its church building in Beijing, during a crackdown on major house churches. Earlier this year, police temporarily detained 11 Zion Church pastors, a church spokesperson previously told Reuters.
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China opportunistically exploited the conflict between India and Pakistan earlier this year to conduct the first real-world combat test of several weapons systems supplied to Islamabad, a US congressional panel said.

India and Pakistan exchanged missile strikes, drone attacks, and heavy artillery shelling for four days in their worst conflict in over a quarter century in May, sparking fears of a full-fledged war between the nuclear-armed rivals. The fighting ended in a tense truce after the US negotiated a ceasefire.

India used French and Russian fighter jets during the conflict while Pakistan deployed a range of Chinese weapons.

The clash marked the debut of modern Chinese weapons systems such as the HQ-9 surface-to-air missile, the PL-15 air-to-air missile, and the J-10C fighter aircraft in a real-world field experiment, the bipartisan US-China Economic and Security Review Commission said in its annual report released on Tuesday.

China, the report said, leveraged the conflict to test and advertise the sophistication of its weapons, useful in the contexts of its ongoing border tensions with India and its expanding defence industry goals.

The Chinese were swift in hailing the successes of their weapons systems in the clash, it added.

open image in gallery Pakistanis celebrate after a ceasefire is reached between Pakistan and India on 10 May 2025 ( AFP via Getty )

The fighting began when India launched airstrikes across the border on what it alleged were training facilities for terrorists. The airstrikes were in retaliation for an attack the previous month in the restive Himalayan territory of Kashmir that had killed about two dozen people, mostly Hindu tourists from the mainland.

Delhi blamed Pakistan for the attack. Islamabad denied the allegation and demanded an independent investigation.

Pakistan claimed that its fighter jets shot down at least six Indian aircraft in the initial stages of the conflict, including the newly acquired French-made Rafale.

India did not confirm how many jets it had lost, but top military officials acknowledged that the air force suffered aircraft losses.

In October, Indian Air Force chief Amar Preet Singh claimed that his side had downed an unspecified number of Pakistans Chinese fighters as well as US-built F-16s during the conflict.

open image in gallery Indias prime minister Narendra Modi visits an Air Force base in Punjab following the conflict with Pakistan ( Indian Press Information Bureau )

The US panels report noted that Pakistans use of Chinese weapons to down Indian aircraft became a particular selling point for Chinese embassy defence sales efforts despite the fact that only three jets flown by Indias military were reportedly downed and all may not have been Rafales.

The report cited the French intelligence as saying that China launched a disinformation campaign to undermine Rafale sales and promote its own J-35s, using fake social media accounts to circulate AI-generated and video-game images purporting to show debris from aircraft allegedly shot down with Chinese weapons.

Chinese embassy officials convinced Indonesia to halt a purchase of Rafale jets already in process, furthering Chinas inroads into other regional actors military procurements, it added.

China is Pakistans main weapons supplier, accounting for 81 per cent of its arms imports over the past five years, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, a Swedish think tank.

The neighbours now also conduct joint drills. In November and December last year, they launched the three-week Warrior-VIII counterterrorism drills. In February this year, the Chinese navy participated in Pakistans multinational AMAN drills.

China hasnt responded to the US report yet. It has also refrained from commenting on the use of its weapons in the conflict and from directly confirming the Pakistani claims.

After the conflict erupted, Beijing called for maximum restraint and urged the warring sides to avoid taking actions that could "further complicate the situation.

The rivalry between India and Pakistan goes back to their independence from British rule in 1947 and is driven mainly by the unresolved Kashmir dispute. They have fought three wars over the majority Muslim Himalayan region, which they hold in part but claim in full.

India accuses Pakistan of fuelling an armed revolt against Indian rule in Kashmir which is now midway through its third decade. Pakistan denies this.

India is also locked in a Himalayan border dispute with China. The two nations fought a war in 1962 which led to China seizing a part of the erstwhile state of Jammu and Kashmir. Their soldiers also engaged in a deadly border clash in 2020 that led to a freezing of bilateral relations for years.
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One person has reportedly died after an out-of-control fire on Wednesday morning burned through a neighbourhood in southwestern Japan and forced more than 170 people to evacuate.

Earlier, it was reported that at least 170 homes were damaged and a man in his 70s was unaccounted for, according to Japans Fire and Disaster Management Agency.

A woman in her 50s was reportedly admitted to a local hospital and is receiving treatment for mild burns.

The fire started during strong winds on Tuesday evening near a fishing port in the city of Oita and spread to a forest. Oita sits on Kyushu, the southernmost of Japans main islands, roughly 770km southwest of Tokyo.

open image in gallery Residents watch flames rise from the site of a fire in Oita, southern Japan, on 18 November 2025 ( AP )

One resident told the Kyodo news agency she quickly fled without many of her belongings because the fire spread in the blink of an eye.

The huge fire is touted to be the countrys biggest urban blaze in nearly 50 years. The scale of destruction, both in the number of buildings and the area consumed, makes this Japans biggest non-earthquake urban fire since the 1976 Sakata inferno. By comparison, a 2016 blaze in Itoigawa destroyed 147 structures across roughly 40,000 square metres, though it caused no fatalities.

Prefectural officials said by 11.40pm on Tuesday, 175 residents from 115 households had taken refuge in a nearby community hall.

Fire officials were first alerted at around 5.45pm on Tuesday when a resident in Oitas Saganoseki district made an emergency call.

Authorities have invoked the disaster relief law for Oita city, enabling both local and central governments to cover emergency costs, including the running of evacuation shelters.

A prefectural task force has been established and is scheduled to meet on Wednesday morning to map out the next steps in the response.

open image in gallery Firefighters work at the scene of a major blaze in Saganoseki, Oita city, late on 18 November 2025 ( AFP via Getty )

The neighbourhood hit by the blaze lies in a mountainous area about 25km east of central Oita, close to the Saganoseki fishing port.

Aerial images broadcast by local media revealed rows of homes burned to ashes, with heavy smoke billowing over the hillside community overlooking a fishing port famous for its prized Seki mackerel.

open image in gallery Aerial view of the scene after an overnight fire in the Saganoseki area of Oita city, Japan, on 19 November 2025 ( AFP )

Japanese prime minister Sanae Takaichi said that a military firefighting helicopter had been deployed after the Oita prefectural governor requested assistance.

She wrote on X: I extend my heartfelt condolences to all residents who are evacuating in the cold.

The government will provide the maximum possible support in collaboration with local authorities.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

The regional government said in a statement that the fire left nearly 300 homes in the area without power.

The flames rose high, turning the sky red. The wind was strong. I never thought it would spread so much, a man in Oita told NHK Japan.

The mountain was burning, the one behind, said another. I brought with me my drivers licence and smartphone.
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Senior leaders of Sheikh Hasinas political party have urged India to continue sheltering the exiled former Bangladesh prime minister who was sentenced to death in absentia by a war crimes court.

The Awami League members, who are also in exile, asked India to intervene in their fight against Bangladeshs interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, according to reports.

Hasina was sentenced to death on Monday by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal at the end of a months-long trial that found her guilty of ordering a deadly crackdown on a student-led uprising last year. Hasina, who fled to neighbouring India in August 2024 at the height of the uprising against her government, issued a statement dismissing the court as a "rigged tribunal".

The interim government described it as a "historic verdict", but called for calm and warned that it would deal with any disorder.

Awami League members told The Indian Express they will return home only if there is political inclusion. Earlier this year, Bangladeshs election commission suspended the registration of Hasinas party, effectively blocking the Awami League from contesting the upcoming polls. Her supporters threatened unrest if the Awami League, once the country's largest, remains banned from elections in February.

The move came days after Mr Yunus banned all activities of the former ruling party, citing national security threats and the war crimes investigation into hundreds of deaths during the agitation that toppled Ms Hasina last year.

India has to help us in our fight against the interim government which created the ITC (International Crimes Tribunal) and which gave such an illegal verdict of death penalty for our Prime Minister in absentia. It is a totally one-sided verdict, where no opportunity for defence was given, former textiles and jute minister, Jahangir Kabir Nanok, said.

Four-time MP Nahim Razzaq told the outlet that the verdict against Hasina has suddenly motivated them. The International Crimes Tribunal also gave the death penalty to her home minister Asaduzzaman Khan.

Mr Razzaq said: We know going back to Bangladesh is a challenge, but if the ban on the party is lifted and we are granted bail in the cases against us, the cadre and the leadership are raring to go.

Hasina has rejected all allegations, insisting that she and Khan acted in good faith and were trying to minimise the loss of life.

We lost control of the situation, but to characterise what happened as a premeditated assault on citizens is simply to misread the facts, she said in a statement.

On Tuesday, the Awami League declared a nationwide shutdown to protest the verdict.

Meanwhile, another senior member of the Awami League, Jahangir Kabir Nanok, said that Mr Yunus has to resign.

He said: The senior leaders of the Awami League are clear about the fact that we will not participate in polls under him.

Parties across Bangladeshs political spectrum have pressed India to honour Dhakas request to hand over Hasina. The BNP accused New Delhi of sheltering a fugitive criminal, while Jamaat-e-Islami urged India to behave like a good neighbour. The National Citizen Party welcomed the verdict as appropriate justice.

Asif Nazrul, the interim governments legal adviser, said Dhaka would follow up with another formal request to India.

If India continues to shelter this mass murderer, he said, then India must understand that it is an act of hostility.

New Delhi had earlier confirmed receiving a diplomatic note requesting Hasinas extradition, but it had offered no substantive reply before Mondays verdict.
Close Indonesias Mount Semeru erupts, triggering hot ash flows and evacuation

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Civilians have run for safety after Indonesia's Semeru volcano erupted on Wednesday, sending a 2km cloud of ash into the air.

Residents have been put on high alert on the island and urged to keep at least 2.5km away from the volcano to avoid health risks.

Semeru, more than 3,600 metres (12,000 feet) high, is one of Indonesia's nearly 130 active volcanoes. It is the highest mountain on the Indonesian island of Java. An eruption in 2021 caused the deaths of at least 57 people.

In a statement, Australias Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) have issued a red aviation warning, with local residents urged to stay within 500m of the riverbank along Besuk Kobokan to avoid being hit by an expansion of hot clouds and lava flows.
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An Australian journalist has been indicted in Thailand on criminal defamation charges over articles he wrote criticising the Malaysian government and its communications regulator.

The case stems from four Substack posts in which Murray Hunter, who lives in Hat Yai in southern Thailand, accused Malaysias Communications and Multimedia Commission (MCMC) of political interference and intimidation. The commission, however, denied the allegations as baseless, according to local media.

Malaysia first pursued a civil defamation ruling, and later asked Thai authorities to act.

Thai police arrested Hunter at the Bangkok airport in September. Though he is out on bail, his passport was seized and he faces trial on 22 December.

Legal advocates say the MCMCs bid to pursue the case through Thailand is unprecedented.

The MCMC duped the Thai police to use criminal defamation on me, Hunter told Asia Sentinel, and warned that Thailand could become a tool for foreign governments seeking to silence journalists.

Rights groups call it a transnational SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation)  a politically motivated attempt to silence a critic using another countrys legal system. They say Thailand is enabling transnational repression, potentially harming its own reputation for media freedom.

Phil Robertson of the consultancy group Asia Human Rights & Labor Advocates said Malaysia is carrying out blatant transnational repression and accused Thai authorities of allowing themselves to be played for fools by the MCMC.

If convicted, Hunter faces up to two years in prison and a 200,000-baht fine  the first known case of Thai criminal defamation law being used on behalf of a foreign government.

Thai Lawyers for Human Rights said that Hunter was being charged under Section 328 of the Thai Criminal Code  defamation by publication  over four Substack articles he wrote between 13 and 29 April 2024, which Malaysian authorities claim defamed the MCMC.

Hunter is an independent journalist who regularly comments on Malaysian politics and governance, often posting critical analyses of the countrys leadership and institutions on his Substack.

Malaysian authorities have reportedly ordered internet providers to block access to his blog in the country.

Hunter said on his Substack that he had not been notified of the case prior to the judgment and had not received any official documents related to the proceedings, and the proceedings were conducted in his absence.

Hunter wrote: The MCMC first blocked Murray Hunter Substack in April 2023. It has been blocked ever since. I am now fighting a civil action in Malaysia and a criminal case in Thailand, both initiated by the MCMC.

He said he was unable to write about Malaysian politics by order of the Thai police at this point.

Government agencies have no business to sue the public for criticism made against them, said Latheefa Koya, a prominent lawyer and human rights activist and co-founder of the NGO Lawyers for Liberty.

If the people in charge of MCMC think anyone has made a false statement about it, the right thing for them to do is issue a statement denying or explaining or clarifying. But it is not acceptable for a public-funded agency to sue people for defamation, because this will have a chilling effect upon public discussion of the actions of MCMC. They have to stop acting like they are a private person whose feelings are wounded by criticism.

Mr Hunter is a former associate professor at Universiti Malaysia Perlis. The Independent has reached out to Malaysias MCMC and Hunter for comment.
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A social media post by Malaysian minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz about enjoying an early morning run in Sabah has reignited a debate over whether the Southeast Asian nation is in the wrong time zone.

Although Kuala Lumpur and Singapore lie on roughly the same longitude as Bangkok and Jakarta, they run an hour ahead on the clock, aligned with Manila, a city far to the east. This artificial shift to GMT+8 pushes sunrise in peninsular Malaysia to around 7am, much later than Jakartas 5.30am or Manilas 6am, where the local time more closely tracks the position of the sun. Critics argue this limits morning daylight and disrupts circadian rhythms.

Mr Aziz, an enthusiastic runner, underlined the contrast saying Kota Kinabalus earlier sunrise allowed him to fit in a morning run before his 8.30am engagement.

Kota Kinabalu is the capital city of the Borneo state of Sabah.

Peninsular Malaysia sits on the Southeast Asian mainland, while Sabah and Sarawak lie across the South China Sea on the island of Borneo.

I bumped into many KK runners today! Power! Lets continue to practise a healthy lifestyle, the trade and industry minister said in a post on X.

His post drew a flurry of responses urging a return to GMT+7, the time zone observed in Thailand and western Indonesia.

Many argued that people in peninsular Malaysia were denied the chance to enjoy early daylight and the late sunrise left them out of sync with natural body rhythms.

Peninsular Malaysia operated on GMT+7.30 after the Second World War, but on 31 December 1981, then prime minister Mahathir Mohamad advanced the clocks by 30 minutes to align the peninsula with Sabah and Sarawak.

Singapore followed suit, saying it wanted to spare travellers and businesses unnecessary disruption.

open image in gallery Malaysia was put on GMT+8 time zone by former leader Mahathir Mohamad ( AP )

A niche group active on X has for years been urging Malaysia to turn the clocks back, arguing that more morning sunlight could help tackle health issues like diabetes and obesity.

When the proposal resurfaced in the parliament in March 2024, the government acknowledged the health claims but maintained that altering the time zone would carry major economic consequences.

The government is not willing to shift away from what was decided in 1981, then minister of investment, trade and industry Liew Chin Tong said.

Several commentators responded to Mr Azizs post urging a change. BRING BACK GMT +7 to Semenanjung!! one wrote, referring to peninsular Malaysia.
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Anthony Williams has been charged with seven further offences following the stabbing spree on a high-speed train in Cambridgeshire on November 1, and will appear in court later on Wednesday, British Transport Police said.

The 32-year-old has been charged with the attempted murder of a 14-year-old boy and the attempted murder of a 22-year-old man in Peterborough in separate incidents, and attempted grievous bodily harm of a 22-year-old in the city, all on October 31.

Williams, of Langford Road, Peterborough, is also accused of affray and possession of a bladed article in connection to an incident at Ritzy Barbers in Peterborough, theft of knives from an Asda supermarket in Stevenage and assaulting a 31-year-old man on a train travelling between Hitchin and Biggleswade, all on October 31.

BTP Deputy Chief Constable Stuart Cundy said: These are a significant set of new charges. Our investigation into the awful incident at Huntingdon has also focused on other offences previously reported to police or identified by our investigation.

We have worked closely with our colleagues in Cambridgeshire and Hertfordshire Police alongside the Crown Prosecution Service to bring these charges.

I would once again like to stress the importance of not saying or publishing anything which might jeopardise or prejudice ongoing criminal proceedings, or the integrity of the investigation.

Williams was remanded into custody at Peterborough Magistrates Court on November 3 charged with 10 counts of attempted murder over the incident on the train, which led to 11 people being treated at hospital.
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A written confession from serial rapist David Carrick remained hidden for 35 years.

The document that could have altered history had police known about it then, the senior officer leading the investigation has stated.

Dated August 29 1990 and filed with his medical records, the note saw Carrick admit abusing a 12-year-old girl.

Though a teenager at the time, he grew to be one of Britains most notorious sexual predators, hiding behind his role as an armed Metropolitan Police officer for years. The note only surfaced as part of a second investigation, after Carrick, from Stevenage, was jailed for life in 2023 for the rape and abuse of 12 women.

Detective Superintendent Iain Moor, who led the Hertfordshire Police investigation, suggested that the future would have been very different had Carricks offending been picked up in 1990.

He said: Its very difficult to apply todays standards back to the 1990s. Obviously, we have multi-agency safeguarding hubs now.

We have mechanisms for reports to come in from GPs, from medical professionals.

But I think had something occurred and the police became aware back in 1990, then it is possible that the offending could have been picked up at that point and then the future looks very different.

Its difficult to say exactly what that path would be, but Im sure itd be different to the one that we have today.

open image in gallery Police body-cam footage from when David Carrick was first arrested on October 2 2021 (Herts Police/PA) ( PA Media )

Signed from Dave, Carrick wrote that the girl was not crazy and that it was true, but that he had stopped about four months ago.

Carrick wrote: I know how (the girl) must feel. Thats why I stopped and promised I would never go near her again and I have kept that promise and I always will.

He offered to go away and never be seen again, adding: Sorry to you and especially sorry to (the girl) but she does not have to worry ever again. Please do not try to talk about it.

Carrick had written the letter after the girl told her mother what was going on, but no further action was taken and the matter was brushed under the carpet, according to the victim.

In February 2023, Carrick was handed 36 life sentences with a minimum term of 32 years after he pleaded guilty to 71 sexual offences against 12 women, including 48 rapes.

Describing the second investigation that followed, Mr Moor said: We made an appeal after the first case to see if there were other victims out there. It was my belief there were other victims out there.

One of these cases we were already aware of from the first investigation, and the other victim then came forward after some news was published as well.

I just commend their bravery in coming forward. Obviously David Carrick received 36 life sentences and hes going to be in prison for a long period of time.

It takes huge courage for a victim of an offence such as these to come forward.

He said it was important that justice was done for the two women at the heart of the second prosecution.

From a criminal justice point of view, its important that hes convicted of the offences.

But as we know, when somebody gets a sentence such as his, its always a question, do we bring a further prosecution?

In this case, its absolutely the right thing to do, so the victims voices are heard, and I hope that it would give them some type of closure and help them on their journey to recovery.

open image in gallery David Carricks former home in Stevenage (Herts Police/PA) ( PA Media )

On whether there were any other missed opportunities to stop Carrick sooner, Mr Moor said: There have been some times when there were potential opportunities.

Some of those are still subject to investigation so its very difficult to comment on those.

The senior officer said that the 1990 case put Carricks offending in a new light, given the victims young age, and expanded the timespan from 17 years to some 30 years.

Mr Moor said he believed there could be more victims who have yet to come forward.

He said: There are varying reasons why people might not be ready to come forward and we fully respect those.

But if there are people out there, we would urge them to come forward and we would investigate their offences.
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Pet owners have been warned of the dangers of Alabama rot disease as in some rare cases it can lead to fatal kidney failure, according to veterinarians.

The disease, known more formally as cutaneous and renal glomerular vasculopathy (CRGV) affects the tissues of the blood vessels and kidneys of dogs.

It can cause skin lesions to form, most commonly appearing on the dog's distal limbs, paws, or lower abdomen. A dog with the disease may also show signs of localised swelling, redness, or even crusting.

Some symptoms are more subtle and appear days later such as the dog being: lethargic, having no appetite, vomiting, and showing less than normal or no urine at all, which is a sign that the kidney is affected.

Eventually, lab tests will show an increase in kidney enzymes, protein in the urine, and in the case of very severe scenarios, acute renal failure will be diagnosed.

Vets have urged pet owners to be vigilant in the coming months as 90 per cent of cases take place from November to May, according to the British Veterinary Association.

open image in gallery It can cause skin lesions to form, most commonly appearing on the dog's distal limbs, paws, or lower abdomen. A dog with the disease may also show signs of localized swelling, redness, or even crusting ( RVC )

The UK has seen a total of 330 confirmed cases of CRGC in the country (19 of which took place in 2024 and 2 have been recorded in 2025 so far, prior to the peak winter months), according to the Anderson Moores Veterinary Specialists.

Vets attribute the clear seasonal pattern of the disease during winter months to be due to environmental factors as the cold, wetter weather conditions create a hub for bacteria to thrive.

Veterinarian, Iryna Smyrnova, told the Independent said: The bacteria that are the main culprits in this disease are usually linked to the toxins produced by Escherichia coli and they flourish in the wet and muddy soils.

The dogs that are walking through the infected ground are more likely to get minor cuts or scratches on their paws or legs which in turn gives an opening for these toxins to enter.

open image in gallery Alabama Rot causes lesions on the leg and chest presumably because of E. Coli bacteria ( Rex Features )

The recommendation of the experts is to perfectly stay away from the muddy woodland areas, fields, and other wet and vegetated areas throughout the high-risk period.

It is also very important to clean and disinfect the dog's paws, legs, and the area of any skin abrasions right after the walk to minimize the chances of toxins getting in.

The exact cause is unknown but studies hint at the existence of an E. coli bacterial strain.

Dr Smyrnova explained that the disease is not caused directly by the bacteria but the toxin that they produce is what the doctors are relying on to medicate the slaughtering process.

The veterinarian warned that toxins want to go deeper and spread through the body and the skin is letting them in through small wounds.

They can then cause vasculitis that affects the kidneys and leads to kidney failure and sometimes even the death of multiple organs in a short time.
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A financier who sued his mum for 2.6m, claiming he was wrongfully disinherited, has been left with a 1m court bill.

Andrew Grijns carved himself a successful career in the London finance world while being allowed to live in his rich American parents 3.85m Chelsea townhouse for more than 20 years.

But following the death of his father, Leendert Grijns, in 2019, he and his mum, Janice Grijns, 80, fell out badly, with Mr Grijns accusing her of vilifying and bullying him and turning against him, whilst she accused him of wanting her dead so that he could have the property.

She went on to tell him to get out of my house as soon as possible and that he could not live there hating and maligning her, sparking a court clash between the pair, with each claiming rights to the house and branding the other a trespasser.

Mr Grijns sued his mum and even launched a bid to get her committed to prison, claiming that he had been promised he would be handed two thirds of the value of the four-storey house in Bury Walk, Chelsea  around 2.6m  and arguing that he had lived there to his own detriment for decades rather than moving on and buying his own property.

He claimed he had shaped his life around ... promises made to him by his parents as to the future of the property and done so despite the fact that the decor and arrangements of the property were old-fashioned and not, it would seem, to his taste ... and despite the fact, as he says, that he would have preferred to buy a place of his own, a court heard.

open image in gallery Andrew Grijns carved out a career in finance while being allowed to live in his rich American parents townhouse ( Supplied by Champion News )

But a judge at the High Court has now thrown out his claim to his mums millions, dismissing his argument that he was disadvantaged by living in his parents property for most of his adult life.

Master Timothy Bowles said: The reality ... is that Andrew has had the opportunity to live in a substantial property in a desirable part of London at very modest cost for the best part of a quarter of a century.

Andrew ... is a person who is entirely self-absorbed and whose paramount concern is entirely for himself.

Andrew has, with some regularity, insulted and, to use the vernacular, bad-mouthed his mother. He has accused her of vilifying and bullying him and of being evil, destructive and wicked. He has accused her ... of senility and dementia.

The true and stark position ... was that Andrew chose to remain and make his life at the property, not because of any assurances made  there were none  but because it suited him.

After dismissing his 2.6m claim, he went on to order Mr Grijns to leave the house, adding that he now faces a massive court bill for the row, likely to be more than 1m, with estimated costs on his mums side alone reaching around 750,000.

He will also have to pay his own legal costs, plus 85,000 a year to mark the time he stayed in the house after he was told to leave in August 2023, as well as account for rent he received for letting part of it out.

Londons High Court heard that Mr Grijns parents, realtor turned academic Janice and banker Leendert, bought the four-bedroomed, Georgian terraced house, with a separate basement granny flat, in 1994, with Mr Grijns moving in by 1999.

Mr Grijns banking career led him to spend a considerable time in London, and that was the context, or a part of it, for the purchase of the property, said the judge.

The property was purchased in 1994, in part to provide a base for Mr Grijns when working in London and in part as a holiday home, from which they, perhaps specifically Janice, could enjoy Londons theatres, opera and restaurants, and from which Janice could explore and purchase antiques.

Andrew and his parents had previously had a close and loving relationship, but after his dad died in 2019 and Mr Grijns went through a divorce, before becoming locked in a legal dispute with a former friend, things became strained between him and his mum, by then the sole owner of the Chelsea property.

open image in gallery The judge dismissed Andrew Grijns claim and declared him to have been a trespasser ( Supplied by Champion News )

He had previously requested that he receive a larger share of the London property than his three brothers due to problems he thought might arise with US tax officials if he inherited American assets on his mothers death.

To that end, in 2015 she had written an email explaining her intention to leave him two-thirds of the value of the London house, with the remaining third to be split between his brothers, to which Mr Grijns replied, describing himself as lucky and grateful.

But in 2020, he and his mum fell out badly. Heated emails were exchanged in June 2020, with Mr Grijns making a series of complaints against his mother, accusing her of vilifying and bullying him and turning against him, said the judge.

Janice emailed Andrew, accusing him of wanting her dead, so that he could have the property and telling him to get out of my house as soon as possible; that he could not live there hating and maligning her.

The falling out worsened, with Mr Grijns later attempting to get his mum committed to prison over her attempts to regain possession of her house in August 2023. But the judge has now dismissed Mr Grijns claim.

Giving his ruling, he said: Andrews primary claim had been that, by way of the application of the doctrine of proprietary estoppel, he was entitled to a substantial beneficial interest, two-thirds, in the property.

His case is that from 2004, when he would have been in his late 20s, he has elected to shape his life around implicit, but not explicit, promises made to him by his parents as to the future of the property.

He has, on that basis, he says, improved the property and, most materially, eschewed other opportunities to make his own life in his own home, such that his mother, having resiled from these alleged promises, he is now disadvantaged.

He has done all this, as he sets out in his trial witness statement, despite the fact that the property was far too large for his needs, despite the fact that the decor and arrangements of the property were old-fashioned and not, it would seem, to his taste, despite the fact that the property was expensive to maintain and keep in repair and despite the fact, as he says, that he would have preferred to buy a place of his own.

I have to say that I find this scenario wholly implausible and, candidly, utterly unrealistic. It particularly does not ring true in respect of someone like Andrew.

Andrew, as the documentary trail clearly shows and as emerged, with great clarity, from his evidence at trial, is a person who is entirely self-absorbed and whose paramount concern is entirely for himself.

Andrew, when cross-examined, did not find it in him to acknowledge the considerable advantages that he had been given by his parents in being allowed to make his home at the property over very many years.

That is, I think, an indication of the extent of his self-absorption.

The reality, though, is that Andrew has had the opportunity to live in a substantial property in a desirable part of London at very modest cost for the best part of a quarter of a century. That opportunity has also enabled Andrew, throughout most of the period under consideration in this case, to pursue his well-paid career in the finance industry.

The true reason as to why Andrew remained at the property, made his life there and, to the extent that he did, carried out improvements to the property, has nothing to do with promises or assurances, but everything to do with his own wishes and convenience. Put shortly, it suited him to stay.

It is easy to see why Andrew remained at the property and how he was enabled to live what, in vernacular terms, might be described as the good life.

Andrew was prepared to construct a case and assert assurances by his mother that were never made, in the hope, not realised, that a settlement would be achieved and the claim would not be fully investigated at a trial.

It further seems to me that, over and above the pressure implicit in the pursuit of unfounded litigation against an elderly woman, Andrew chose to add to the pressures imposed upon his mother both by raising and pleading issues as to her capacity and then, late in the day, by issuing contempt proceedings against her.

The judge dismissed Andrews claim, declared him to have been a trespasser in the house since 1 August 2023, and ordered that he pay his mum 85,000 per year from that date until he gets out, as well as accounting for rent he received letting part of the property since May 2023.
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City bosses have vowed to evict a van-dwelling community from a Bristol beauty spot after parts of the popular parkland were used as a toilet.

In a joint statement, Green Party councillors Barry Parsons and Stephen Williams said the discovery of sites filled with human waste on the historic Durdham Down, known locally as the Downs, was completely unacceptable.

The enforcement action comes after complaints from residents in the surrounding wealthy suburbs of Redland and Stoke Bishop over the increasing number of lived-in vans and caravansin the park.

At a last count in August, The Independent found there to be more than 100 vehicles on the parkland, making it one of the biggest van-dweller communities in the UK.

When approached, some said living in vehicles on the park was a way of life, while others said they had been forced to due to a housing crisisin Bristol, where private rents rose 23 per cent from 2020 to 2023.

But now, after evidence of areas of park being used as a toilet, Bristol City Council has decided to act.

open image in gallery Caravans line many of the roads which dissect the Downs, but there are many other sites across Bristol the vehicles are situated on kerbsides ( The Independent )

We are currently working on an enforcement plan to begin to move the group of lived in vehicles from the Downs, the councillors said.

We appreciate that moving such a large group is not going to be an easy task, and will require a lot of coordination, but we cannot allow a public health risk to continue.

The councillors, which said the open-air toilet use presented a significant public issue, said outreach workers would help residents of the vans and caravans find a route away from vehicle dwelling.

The work to remove the vehicles, they said, would not be an easy task and will require a lot of coordination.

They added: Most vehicle dwellers will not be engaging in this sort of behaviour, but now that this issue has been identified and confirmed, we have to take action to put an end to this behaviour and make sure the Downs remains open to everyone.

Bristol has seen the number of lived-in vehicles across the city rise 300 per cent in six years to a peak of 680. Most are situated on roadsides, private land and council-owned sites with toilets and running water.

open image in gallery Some local residents complain about rubbish left outside by the people living in the caravans. The council said the the community was classiied as high impact for the area ( The Independent )

With tensions flaring within local neighbourhoods over their presence, the council is working on a new policy on how to tackle concerns.

Across the UK, at the last census in 2021, some 104,000 households lived in a caravan or mobile home, 19,000 more than a decade before.

When The Independent visited the vehicle-dwelling community on the Downs in August, campaigners against it said they had evidence of threatening behaviour and antisocial behaviour, including bushes being used as open-air toilets.

They even threatened legal action against the city council for failing to remove the vehicles.

However, some van-dwellers told The Independent it was unfair to tar everyone with the same brush.

On Wednesday, van-dweller Tim, who does not want to give his surname, said: And where will everyone go now? Its not dealing with the problem, its moving it on somewhere else.

As part of its newly-created policy, Bristol City Council said it aimed to increase the number of pitches for van-dwellers at council-owned sites from 67 to 250 by the end of March next year.
No markets for Japanese seafood currently even if it is exported to China: foreign ministry

Xinhua) 16:46, November 19, 2025

BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Under the current circumstances, even if Japanese seafood is exported to China, there would be no market for it, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular news briefing when answering a query related to the Japanese seafood import suspension.

Mao noted that Japan had previously committed to fulfilling its regulatory responsibilities for seafood exports to China and ensuring their quality and safety, which is a prerequisite for Japanese seafood to be exported to China.

"However, Japan has so far failed to provide the promised technical materials," said Mao.

She went on to say that recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's retrogressive and erroneous remarks on major issues, such as the Taiwan question, have also drawn a massive public backlash among the Chinese people.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Zhong Wenxing)
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A British woman is among five people found dead in Chiles Torres del Paine National Park, authorities confirmed.

The bodies, including two German and two Mexican citizens, were discovered on Tuesday following a snowstorm in the popular Patagonian tourist destination.

Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate for Chiles southern Magallanes region, said talks had begun with the representatives from the victims countries of origin so their bodies could be repatriated.

The presidential delegate for Magallanes identified the victims, adding: We appreciate the effort of all civilian, military, public, and private institutions that participated in this operation.

The area was struck by a snowstorm, causing whiteout conditions with fierce wind speeds surpassing 193kmh (120mph), equivalent to a category 3 hurricane.

Torres del Paine National Park hosts hundreds of visitors each year ( Javier Vieras )

The Torres del Paine National Park, with its jutting mountain tops and subpolar forests, spans about 1,810 square kilometres (700 square miles) and hosts hundreds of thousands of visitors each year.

The search for the victims has ended, with authorities now focusing on repatriating the bodies and liaising with foreign consulates, officials said.

It is understood that a further four people have been found alive.

Map: Torres del Paine National Park

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font paid tribute to the tireless search and rescue teams, who worked amid intense snowfall and winds reaching 118mph.

To the families, friends, and loved ones of the five individuals of Mexican, German, and British nationalities who tragically lost their lives in the incident that occurred in Torres del Paine, I extend my deepest condolences, he said in a post on X/Twitter.

Know that you have the full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times.

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has been contacted for comment.
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A two tonne whales head has been excavated from the ground after a 10 hour dig in Cornwalls Lizard Peninsula, as scientists hope to memorialise and learn from the dead mammal.

A team of scientists used specialist vacuum excavation equipment to painstakingly remove soil over the course of 10 hours. They had waited five years to excavate the skull, after a 60-foot female fin whale, the second largest marine animal on Earth, was given a burial after being found stranded on a beach in Parbean Cove.

Despite efforts at the time by specialists from the British Divers Marine Life Rescue team to keep the mammal alive, the whale was found to be severely malnourished and couldnt survive the beaching. The organisation said that the animal had numerous superficial injuries all over its body and some deeper ones - especially around its tail - when medics arrived.

The whales two-tonne head was given to ecologist, Professor Robbie McDonald, then a professor in the Environment and Sustainability Institute at the University of Exeter, by the Duchy of Cornwall at the time.

Samples were taken of the whales baleen plates, which are used to sieve krill and plankton, which can help to learn about the whales living conditions before it died, which could help support the longer term monitoring of marine creature strandings.

open image in gallery The fin whale was found stranded on a Cornwall beach in February 2020 and later died ( British Divers Marine Life Rescue )

The ecologist then arranged for it to be buried in specially prepared soil in a research field close to the Penryn campus in Falmouth so that it could be cleaned to be put on display. Over the course of five years, organisms in the soil had stripped the skull clean bar one piece of blubber. The skull now sits in the research field in the latest process of cleaning, where the rain washes it and the sun bleaches it.

Prof McDonald told The Independent that the beaching of the whale had a profound impact on the local community. There were people saying little prayers and putting flowers on it as well because, I think people feel the death of such a magnificent animal, he said.

They take it to heart.

open image in gallery It took 10 hours to excavate the whale from the soil ( University of Exeter )

It remains unconfirmed what will happen to the whale skull, although possibilities remain at a permanent installation will be created on the University of Exeters Penryn campus.

Prof McDonald said he hoped that it would become a monument to serve as a very visual striking, monumental reminder of marine life at risk.

The fin whales used to be a very abundant species, he said. But in the 20th century, about 750,000 fin whales were killed for commercial whaling, and that commercial whaling didn't stop in the North Atlantic until the late eighties.

open image in gallery The skull now sits in the Penryn Campus research field where it is being washed by the rain ( University of Exeter )

He added that there remained a chance for the skull to act as a memorial to the individual animal.

We shouldn't walk past the fact that this was an individual animal and it's evoked a lot of emotional reactions from the people who saw that happen.
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A refugee who escaped political persecution in Africa to safety in the UK fears he could be sent back to his home country under Labours new migrant crackdown.

Shams Moussa has described controversial plans to reform the asylum system, which could see refugees returned to their home nation if they are later deemed safe, as deeply worrying.

The 48-year-old, who met King Charles at a humanitarian reception at Buckingham Palace two years ago, has also accused Labour politicians of scapegoating migrants while failing to take responsibility for asylum claims.

On Monday, home secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled her proposed overhaul of the asylum system, claiming that the UKs generosity had made it an attractive destination for those seeking sanctuary compared to other European nations.

Describing the current system as out of control, she said she planned to reduce the number of people arriving illegally in Britain and ramp up removals of those with no right to be in the UK.

The proposals, which have faced backlash from some Labour figures, include cutting the time refugees are initially granted to stay in the UK, from five years to 30 months, which could only be renewed if it is not safe for them to return to their home country.

Refugees would also have to spend 20 years in the UK before being allowed to apply for settled status, up from five years.

open image in gallery Shams Moussa with his invitation to meet King Charles at Buckingham Palace in 2023  he said Charles sympathised with his situation ( Shams Moussa )

Mr Moussa, who arrived via a flight to the UK eight years ago, said: This is very unfair. My home is my home, I will always love to be back in my hometown if it feels safe again. Thats where your roots are, your DNA is.

But at the end of the day, how can you build a life in the UK when someone will tell you, No you have to go home after a few years? Its deeply worrying. You are working, contributing to the community, contributing as a taxpayer, setting up a new life and then you suddenly could get uprooted.

Now they tell you to go back to where you were in the first place when, even if the government has changed, youre completely an alien to that place because you have to start everything from scratch.

In Mr Moussas west African country, a military coup a few years ago saw the nations presidential guard removed and a new head of state appointed.

A report by the US Department of State found the new government did not always respect freedom of expression, and authorities had arrested civil society activists whom they accused of factual inaccuracies in reporting.

Mr Moussa does not wish to name the country for fear of reprisals against his family, who are still living in the country.

open image in gallery Shams Moussa is calling on the Labour government to create a safe passage for more refugees to come to the UK ( Shams Moussa )

Mr Moussa said: If I go there... I start speaking up about them [government] or start criticising them. What am I going to do again? Is Britain going to say, OK, lets let him come and seek asylum here? And if thats not going to happen, how am I going to escape again?

After arriving in the UK, Mr Moussa immediately claimed asylum and was initially housed in London. He has since moved to the North East, where he said he is settled and working for a charity that supports refugees.

He questioned the proposed measure to make refugees wait 20 years before applying for permanent settled status, a route he wishes to take, after the UK government offered millions of Hong Kongers the opportunity to settle in the country.

He added: The irony is that the UK has been a welcoming place, but yet they [politicians] have these ideas, these policies that they push, these narratives that can basically make you feel unwelcome and put your life in danger with all that is going on. They are scapegoating migrants, taking the easy option rather than taking responsibility.

His comments come as it emerged that French police were using large nets to stop small boats crossing the English Channel, with the rising number of people arriving on boats often at the centre of the messages to demonstrate the need to reduce illegal migration.

Mr Moussa has called on the government to focus on allowing more immigrants seeking sanctuary to enter the UK along safe passages. He said the issue of housing could be partly solved by turning empty buildings in town and city centres into homes.

He added: Britain is heading to a place of no return when it comes to both its humanitarian and economic position. Britains population is growing, we need younger people to work, pay taxes and support businesses.

He also encouraged more refugees to apply to vote, believing politicians would then represent their views and positions better.

The Home Office said it would not comment on individual cases.
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The defence secretary has issued a stark warning to Vladimir Putin after a Russian spy ship operating on the edge of UK waters directed lasers at RAF pilots.

John Healey said the Yantar was operating north of Scotland and had pointed lasers at pilots of surveillance aircraft monitoring its activities in a deeply dangerous move.

In a defiant stand against the action, he told a Westminster press conference on Wednesday: "My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what you're doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready."

The Russian embassy in the UK hit back, accusing the government of being Russophobic and whipping up militaristic hysteria.

The pilots targeted by the lasers, understood to have happened within the past two weeks, had been monitoring the ships activities after it breached UK waters for the second time this year.

open image in gallery UK forces have been closely monitoring Russian vessels, including the spy ship Yantar ( Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright )

Mr Healey said its presence was designed to put... our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.

He said: It is part of a Russian fleet. It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

That was why, he said, whenever the Yantar comes into British wider waters we track it, we deter it and we say to Putin we are ready, and we do that alongside allies.

He added: It is a demonstration, if you like, of a British readiness to act, a British capability to act, because, make no mistake, we will not tolerate a threat to the British peoples essential connections under water.

He also warned the UK "must step up" in a "new era of hard power", saying "our world is less predictable, it is more dangerous, as he pointed to the Israel-Iran war in the Middle East and armed conflict which broke out earlier this year between India and Pakistan, as well as Chinese spies targeting MPs.

open image in gallery A thermal image of the Yantar off the British coast this week ( PA )

In the past year, he said, Europe's skies had been plagued by drone disruptions, while Russian incursions into Nato airspace had doubled, and there have been 90,000 cyber attacks on the UK defence system alone.

Hitting back at Mr Healeys condemnation, a translated statement from the Russian embassy said the endless accusations and suspicions of the British leadership cause only a smile. It dismissed claims that the ship was spying and said its actions were not aimed at undermining the UK's security.

However, London, with its Russophobic course and whipping up militaristic hysteria, contributes to the further degradation of European security, creating the prerequisites for new dangerous situations. We call on the British side to refrain from destructive steps that exacerbate the crisis on the European continent, it added.

Mr Healeys warning to Russia came as a damning new report by MPs warned that Britain is not ready to defend itself from a major attack.

The Commons defence committee issued a stark message about the UKs ability to fight a war and meet its Nato obligations in the wake of Putins war in Ukraine, saying Britain does not currently have a plan to protect itself.

The parliamentary committees report warned that the UK lacks a plan for defending the homeland and overseas territories, as they called for the public to be given more information about the scale of the threat and the response that is required.

open image in gallery Healey has has warned Putin that we see you, we are ready ( AP )

The committees chair, Labours Tan Dhesi, said: Putins brutal invasion of Ukraine, unrelenting disinformation campaigns, and repeated incursions into European airspace mean that we cannot afford to bury our heads in the sand.

He added: We have repeatedly heard concerns about the UKs ability to defend itself from attack. Government must be willing to grasp the nettle and prioritise homeland defence and resilience.

In achieving this, government cannot shy away from direct engagement with the public. Wars arent won just by generals but by the whole of the population getting behind the armed forces and playing our part.

There needs to be a coordinated effort to communicate with the public on the level of threat we face and what to expect in the event of conflict.

Meanwhile, a deal between the UK and the European Union on access to the blocs defence fund appears to be at an impasse, but Mr Healey said that the UK is not ready to be willing at any price to secure access.

Negotiations are underway on how much the UK should pay to participate in the EUs new 150bn security action for Europe (Safe) rearmament fund.

Later on Wednesday, foreign secretary Yvette Cooper said the UK would be "vigilant and determined" in its response to Putin's Russia.

At a press conference in Berlin with her counterpart Johann Wadephul, she said: "We see what Putin is doing and we understand and we will continue to be vigilant and determined in our response.

"Just as we have been about incursions into Nato airspace, just as we are being now in terms of identifying the Russian spy ship in UK waters and just as we have continued to be in response to sabotage threats that we have seen across many different European countries as well. It will not deter us from supporting Ukraine, quite the opposite, because we know Ukraine's security is our security."
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A vulnerable child was drawn into a county lines drug trafficking gang after authorities failed to act for 10 days following his familys report that he was missing, a charity has warned.

Missing People, the UKs only charity dedicated to reconnecting missing people with their loved ones, said the boy was groomed while he was away and continued to be targeted even after he was found and brought home, leading to repeated disappearances.

Risks were missed early on that later escalated, and his family felt like their concerns hadnt been taken seriously enough when they first spoke to the police, Josie Allan, head of policy and partnerships at the charity, told The Independent.

Missing People shared this boys story as it warned that children who disappear are being allowed to fall through the gaps. It said they are at heightened risk of exploitation even when they are only missing for a short time.

The charity blames what it describes as a deprioritisation of missing people by both government and police, which it says has left forces without the resources to respond to the scale of the crisis.

The Independent is joining forces with Missing People to launch a new service that will be a lifeline for struggling children. Co-designed and piloted by young people themselves, SafeCall will offer the support, safety and connection they need.

Our goal is to raise 165,000 to help fund this free service, so that the 70,000 children reported missing each year can find safety, no matter what. The charity currently reaches one in four of those children  and, with your support, SafeCall will reach many more.

Donate here or text SAFE to 70577 to give 10 to Missing People  enough for one child to get help.

open image in gallery The Independent is joining forces with Missing People to launch a new service that will be a lifeline for children in crisis ( Missing People )

Ms Allan said: We are very concerned that some children when they go missing are not identified as at risk and are allowed to fall through the gaps, either experiencing harm while missing or staying missing for days or even weeks. If you ignore the missing episode, then exploitation is one of the key serious things that could be a consequence of that.

You hear examples of when parents try to make a report but are told to call back in a few hours, Ms Allan said, adding some reports are never logged at all.

Weve definitely heard from families who tried to make a report and thought they had, but it turned out the police hadnt even recorded it as a missing person and hadnt explained that, so the family thought the person was being looked for, but they werent.

Although she stressed it is unusual for a case to be entirely unrecorded, she said it is not that rare for relatively little to happen, sometimes due to assumptions that the child will return of their own accord.

The consequences, she said, can be severe. It can mean someone has come to more harm. The impact on families is a real sense of betrayal. You expect the police to help when you contact them. People feel very let down.

The Independent previously reported the case of Nerissa Tivys son, Alexander Sloley, who was 16 when he vanished from a friends house in Islington, north London, in August 2008 with no wallet, no spare clothes and very little money.

She said it took police more than two years to provide her with anything beyond a reference number. What do you do next? Ms Tivy asked. My childs missing and no ones telling me anything. You report your child missing and no one gives a damn. It took them two years and three months before they contacted me. Had they done something earlier, maybe wed have answers by now.

open image in gallery Nerissa Tivys son, Alexander Sloley, was 16 when he vanished from a friends house in north London in August 2008 ( Supplied )

Ms Allan said police are facing chronic underresourcing and unmanageable demand. According to the National Crime Agency, 160,000 people were reported missing in nearly 330,000 incidents during 2023 to 2024, including 72,000 children who disappeared in almost 210,000 episodes.

Sometimes, however, she said cases are not handled appropriately: We hear from families who are told, Well, if you cant keep an eye on your child then how can we? Or children are told theyre wasting police time.

She said both government and policing have deprioritised the issue, and that this misses the stark reality that a disappearance is often a warning sign of serious underlying problems. We would all be so deeply worried if a loved one went missing, she said. That should be replicated at the societal level. Going missing should never be seen as normal. It should be a trigger for activity, resources and a response. It needs to be taken seriously.

Assistant Chief Constable Damien Miller, national policing lead for missing people, said: If a missing person is at risk of any kind of exploitation, police will always prioritise finding them as quickly as possible and put safeguarding in place with other agencies to minimise risk of harm in the future.

open image in gallery Josie Allan, head of policy and partnerships at the Missing People charity ( Supplied )

Research, including research conducted by the Missing People charity, has shown that involving the police when children are just staying out without permission, or when they are with their friends, can stigmatise young people and lead to the unnecessary involvement of the police in childrens lives. A police response is not always the right answer, which is why we always consider the wider context of each case and work with other agencies to give the right support to those involved.

We accept that there will always be room for improvement in investigations, which is why the national Missing People Policing Group works to improve the police and partnership response to missing people.

The government has also been approached for comment.

Please donate now to the SafeCall campaign, launched by The Independent and charity Missing People, to help raise 165,000 to create a free service to help find new, safe futures for vulnerable children.

For advice, support and options, if you or someone you love goes missing, text or call Missing People on 116 000. Its free, confidential and non-judgemental. Or visit: missingpeople.org.uk/get-help
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People who were at school with Reform UK leader Nigel Farage claim he displayed offensive behaviour as a boy, including giving Nazi salutes and making racial slurs.

The Clacton MP, who could potentially be the UKs next prime minister, as his party leads in opinion polls, emphatically denies allegations in The Guardian that he used racist or antisemitic insults as a teenager.

He suggested that the paper was attempting to smear Reform.

One former contemporary at Dulwich College in south London told The Guardian he felt humiliated by the antisemitic words of a 13-year-old Mr Farage, who allegedly also urged pupils of overseas heritage to go home.

Peter Ettedgui, now an award-winning director and producer, told the paper: He would sidle up to me and growl: Hitler was right, or Gas them, sometimes adding a long hiss to simulate the sound of the gas showers.

open image in gallery The Clacton MP denies allegations in The Guardian that he used racist or antisemitic insults as a teenager ( Yui Mok/PA )

He added: I wasnt his only target. Id hear him calling other students p*** or w**, and urging them to go home. I tried to ignore him, but it was humiliating. It was shaming.

Mr Ettedgui said Mr Farage could suddenly become charming, adding: Id like to know why hes never owned up or shown the slightest contrition.

A second pupil from a minority ethnic background claimed that, when Mr Farage was 17, he asked where the pupil was from and pointed away, saying: Thats the way back.

Professor Dave Edmonds, 61, another Jewish ex-pupil, told The Guardian he had a strong memory of Mr Farage using the w-word for what we now call people of Afro-Caribbean origin and the p-word for those of south Asian origin.

He added: I dont remember being on the receiving end of antisemitic remarks, though of course he made outrageous comments about the war. I dont think Jews were his main racial preoccupation. He was generally obsessed, as he is now, with the erosion of Britishness.

open image in gallery The Clacton MP could potentially be the UKs next prime minister since his party is ahead in opinion polls ( PA )

But some pupils told The Guardian only that he was bumptious, rude, provocative and enjoyed being the centre of attention, insisting they did not remember him using racist language.

There is no evidence that Mr Farage has ever been a member of far-right organisations, nor is there a suggestion that he holds the views ascribed to him as a boy.

In legal letters to The Guardian, he questioned the public interest in reporting historic allegations.

A Reform UK spokesperson said: These allegations are entirely without foundation. The Guardian has produced no contemporaneous record or corroborating evidence to support these disputed recollections from nearly 50 years ago.

It is no coincidence that this newspaper seeks to discredit Reform UK, a party that has led in over 150 consecutive opinion polls and whose leader bookmakers now have as the favourite to be the next prime minister.

We fully expect these cynical attempts to smear Reform and mislead the public to intensify further as we move closer to the next election.
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A man who was wrongly jailed for almost 40 years for a murder he didnt commit has described being beaten by police officers and bullied into a false confession.

Peter Sullivan was handed a life sentence when he was convicted in 1987 of the brutal murder of 21-year-old florist Diane Sindall, in Bebington, near Merseyside.

Now 68-years-old, he had his conviction overturned earlier this year after new DNA tests revealed his innocence in what is thought to be the longest-running miscarriage of justice in British history.

Speaking for the first time since his release, Mr Sullivan has described his haunting experience of being falsely accused, and says he wants an apology from Merseyside Police.

Mr Sullivan, who has learning difficulties, claimed he had not been provided with an appropriate adult during interviews and was initially denied legal representation when he was arrested in 1986.

He initially denied the attack but later signed a confession, which he subsequently retracted.

open image in gallery Diane Sindall was murdered in 1986 (Merseyside Police/PA) ( PA Media )

"They were putting stuff into my mind, then they would send me back to my cell, then I'd come back and say what they wanted, not realising what I was doing at the time," he told the BBC.

He added he was physically assaulted by officers: They threw a blanket over the top of me and they were hitting me on top of the blanket with the truncheons to try and get me to co-operate with them," he said.

It really hurt, they were leathering me.

He also claimed he was told if he did not confess to the murder, he would be charged with 35 other rapes and denied food and sleep.

"All I can say, it was the bullying that forced me to throw my hands in, because I couldn't take it anymore, he said.

Ms Sindall, who was engaged to be married, was walking to a petrol station after her van broke down when she was beaten to death, with her body left partially clothed and mutilated following a frenzied assault.

Semen which was discovered on her abdomen had been partly diluted by rainfall, and therefore had not been possible to test until 2024.

open image in gallery Peter Sullivan spent 38 years in prison for the murder of Diane Sindall in 1986, and has had his conviction quashed at the Court of Appeal ( PA Media )

It was alleged during his 1987 trial that Mr Sullivan had spent the day drinking heavily after losing a darts match, and had armed himself with a crowbar before a chance encounter with Ms Sindall.

Ms Sindalls clothing was found two weeks later Bidston Hill, and when asked by officers to mark where they had been found, Mr Sullivan told the BBC he pointed to the wrong place.

He said a detective said: Come on Peter, you know better than that," and hinted at the "correct" location.

In his first interview since his release, he told BBC North West, aired on the Today programme he said he cant forgive the police.

open image in gallery Mr Sullivan has described his haunting experience of being falsely accused, and says he wants an apology from Merseyside Police ( Reuters )

Thats all I want is an apology with the reason why they done this to me  from Merseyside police and everyone else  I lost all my freedom, I lost my mother, since I was put in prison, Ive lost my father, and it hurts because I wasnt there for them, he said.

I have never been able to set myself to go and see my mums grave, and I cant  carry on with my life if I cant get an answer out of them, that is what I need the most is an answer from them, and thats all I care about, that answer  why they done it to me?

He added that he feels sorry for the family Ms Sindalls, saying I will be there by their side if needed.

The case has been re-opened since his conviction was overturned, but no arrests have been made.

I feel sorry for (Ms Sindalls family), I really do feel sorry for them and what theyre going through at the moment, where theyre back at square one and not knowing who the person is that killed their daughter, he said.

open image in gallery The memorial stone for Diane Sindall on Borough Road in Birkenhead, Wirral (Eleanor Barlow/PA) ( PA Wire )

I dont know what to say to them, I am really sorry for whats happened to their daughter, and if they need  if they want  my support when they go to court with the guy, when they find him, I will go to court with them, I will be there by their side 100 per cent, because I will be there for them.

Merseyside Police said it regretted that there has been a grave miscarriage of justice in this case. The force added it was not aware about the new allegations of him being beaten or threats to charge him with additional offences.

It admitted that Mr Sullivan was refused legal advice for some of his police interviews.
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As millions of Britons faced issues with their most recent parcel delivery, a new report has revealed how customers rate some of the biggest delivery companies.

New research from Citizens Advice estimates that a record 15 million people experienced a problem with their latest parcel in the UK, as the charity calls on Ofcom to take tougher action.

Yodel, one of the UKs largest delivery services, landed bottom of the ratings, scoring just two out of five stars overall for its customer service, delivery, accessibility and trust.

Dame Clare Moriarty, chief executive of Citizens Advice, said: Our league table has tracked parcel problems from warehouse to doorstep. We continue to see millions of people chasing lost parcels, having their accessibility needs ignored and hitting a brick wall when they try to complain.

The table looks at the top five delivery companies by parcel volume. More than 8,000 UK adults who had recently received a parcel from one of the five companies were surveyed by Opinium as part of the research and asked to rate the services.

Coming out at the top of the table was Royal Mail, which earned 3.25 stars overall. The postal service scored the highest for trust, getting four stars, while only earning 2.8 for accessibility.

Despite bagging the top spot for parcel deliveries, Royal Mail was slapped with a 21m fine in October after missing its annual first and second class mail delivery targets, leading to millions of late letters across the UK.

Amazon Logistics came in at second on the table, scoring three stars, and DPD and Evri tied for third, earning 2.25 stars.

Evri said that while it was great to receive recognition of its progress, it still had further improvements planned and knows it has more to do.

A spokesperson said: By listening to feedback and investing in the right tools, systems, and training, we have been able to make tangible improvements for our customers as we remain focused on building further trust and consistency across each delivery.

open image in gallery Royal Mail was fined 21m for failing to meet its delivery targets ( PA )

Citizens Advice said the research revealed failures from Ofcom, the postal service regulator, and has called on them to start taking tougher action on the parcel market and fine the worst offenders.

Dame Clare said: Ofcom has passed the parcel of responsibility for long enough. Weve been doing the work of the regulator for five years now by holding parcel companies to account and speaking up for consumers who are bearing the brunt of persistently poor service.

An Ofcom spokesperson said: We have a strong track record of holding parcel firms to account on behalf of the public.

It said that peoples experiences can vary depending on the company delivering their package, and it would continue to press operators to make improvements.

A Royal Mail spokesperson said: We are pleased Royal Mail came first in the Citizens Advice parcels league table for the fourth year running. Since last year, weve made great strides in providing customers with the most convenient options for sending, returning and collecting parcels.

An Amazon spokesperson said: Every day at Amazon, incredible employees and independent delivery partners come together to provide fast, reliable and safe delivery for our customers.

The vast majority of deliveries make it to customers without issue. In the rare case something occurs, we work with customers directly to make it right.

The Independent has contacted Yodel for comment.
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John Swinney has said he has no doubt the Prime Minister will be unable to remain in office if the SNP wins an overall majority at next years Holyrood election.

The Scottish First Minister told how he believes an SNP majority  which has only happened once in the history of the Scottish Parliament  could topple Sir Keir Starmer.

He also told an event in London his relationship with Sir Keir is in a testing period now in the run-up to that Holyrood vote in May 2026.

Mr Swinney has set the SNP the target of winning more than half the 129 seats up for grabs in the Scottish Parliament  pointing out when this happened in 2011 it triggered the 2014 independence referendum.

Addressing an Institute for Government event, the SNP leader added: If that was to happen in May of next year, then I have no doubt that the Prime Minister would not survive in office.

Pressed on the difference between a majority for the SNP and a pro-independence majority also involving the Sottish Greens, as there is at present at the Parliament, Mr Swinney said simply: The difference is that the SNP-only majority was not ignored.

Thats the big difference, and thats what sets the precedence.

With the UK Government having rebuffed all the Scottish Governments calls for a second independence referendum since 2014, Mr Swinney argued it is democratically unhealthy for there not to be a route to a fresh ballot.

Saying the UK is a voluntary union, the First Minister added: There has to be a route whereby the parties to that union can say if they want to live differently.

I dont think it is legitimate for the democratic wishes of the people of Scotland to be in any way thwarted in what they wish to be.

Precedent is important here. The argument I am deploying is that we are in a logjam just now about the constitutional question.

At this moment there is a majority of the Scottish Parliament that believes Scotland should be an independent country and there should be a referendum to enable that to be the case, and that is not able to be advanced because of the stance of the United Kingdom Government.

With the SNP having secured the 2014 referendum after winning an overall majority in 2011, Mr Swinney insisted there is a very clear and demonstrable case that that precedent should be respected.

He also said the political mood in Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom are moving in significantly different directions.

He said south of the border the debate is shaped increasing by the rise of Reform UK, with the SNP leader claiming political parties in England are moving on to the territory that is occupied by Nigel Farage as a result.

He said that is in contrast with the prevailing sentiment in Scotland which does not go along with this direction of thinking.

The First Minister added he does not believe the current devolved arrangements will be able to protect Scotland from a government led by Mr Farage  whose party is ahead in the polls south of the border.

Mr Swinney spoke of the need to have different constitutional arrangements that will protect Scotland from the politics of Farage and Reform.

He said he doubts current constitutional arrangements can enable us to do that as Holyrood is already seeing an erosion of the devolved settlement  citing the Internal Market Act, introduced by the UK Government to regulate trade between the four nations post-Brexit, as an example of this.

The SNP leader also used the event in London to urge the UK Government to end the policy of austerity once and for all when Chancellor Rachel Reeves delivers her Budget next week.

The Budget has got to support households wrestling with the cost of living and address the very significant energy costs households are having to deal with, he said.

Mr Swinney continued: The Budget has got to make an impact on household income, but it has also got to make an impact on public services, because the issues and the challenges that the public services are wrestling with are longstanding as a consequence of the impact of austerity.

What the Budget has got to do is to end that austerity once and for all.
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The prime minister of Albania has accused home secretary Shabana Mahmood of ethnic stereotyping after she singled out Albanian families for refusing to return to their homeland in her controversial announcements on asylum this week.

Edi Rama was furious that Ms Mahmood had singled out Albanians in her document, and questioned how a Labour minister could so poorly echo the rhetoric of the populist far right.

The home secretary used the claim that 700 Albanian families avoided deportation, through the right of families to be reunited, as a justification to get rid of the human rights safeguard and water down Article 8 of the European Convention of Human Rights (ECHR).

open image in gallery The home secretarys announcements on immigration have been met with backlash ( PA )

In a furious attack on social media, Mr Rama, who leads Labours sister party in Albania, wrote: How can a Labour home secretary so poorly echo the rhetoric of the populist far right  and single out 700 Albanian families, a statistical drop in the ocean of post-Brexit Britains challenges  precisely at a moment when the UK and Albania have built one of Europes most successful partnerships on illegal migration?

Albanians are net contributors to the British economy, and the number of Albanians receiving UK benefits is very low relative to other communities. To single them out again and again is not policy  it is a troubling and indecent exercise in demagoguery.

Meanwhile, Andi Hoxhaj, an associate fellow from the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), also accused the government of targeting and singling out Albanians in its rhetoric.

He said: We saw the same issue under the previous Conservative administration and both the Albanian community and the Albanian government are deeply frustrated by the return of this narrative.

This rhetoric seems increasingly tied to the governments push to reinterpret or reform ECHR provisions on family rights  using Albanians as an example to make a broader political argument, like the Reform and Conservatives have made by using Albanians as an example.

open image in gallery Albanias prime minister, Edi Rama, said people from the country are net contributors to the British economy ( PA )

By specifically naming Albania, the home secretary is also responding to Farages messaging, as he has made Albanians a central part of his rhetoric.

This is not the first time Mr Rama has clashed with a British home secretary. In November 2022, he accused the then home secretary, Suella Braverman, of fuelling xenophobia and targeting, singling out a community when she accused some Albanians of abusing modern slavery laws.

A Home Office spokesperson said: We welcome the partnership with Albania on returns.

However, today thousands of failed asylum families are stuck in accommodation and support at taxpayers expense despite their home country being perfectly safe.

The Government makes no apologies for beginning to remove families back home.
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Tony Blairs think tank has upped its challenge over the Labour governments energy policy after a new report warned that bills need to come down by 300.

The Tony Blair Institute (TBI) has been critical of Ed Milibands push for net-zero policies after concerns were raised in a report by the Energy Crisis Commission.

The commission, which brings together representatives from Energy UK, the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), Citizens Advice and National Energy Action, warned that the government must tackle high electricity prices and boost insulation in the upcoming Budget.

The group said the switch to electrification will stall without meaningful action on lowering bills for both households and businesses.

Electricity prices in the UK remain some of the highest in Europe after Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022 sparked the energy crisis.

open image in gallery Chancellor Rachel Reeves is facing pressure to reduce energy bills in her Budget ( PA Wire )

But concerns have also previously been raised that Mr Milibands hardline attitude against using fossil fuels in the transition is keeping energy bills high.

In a foreword to an earlier report by the TBI, Sir Tony warned that climate policy has become disconnected from political, public, and economic reality.

Reacting to the commissions findings, TBIs senior energy policy adviser Tone Langengen said: The Energy Crisis Commission is right to say costs need to come down; the government promised to cut electricity bills by 300, but on the current path the opposite will happen. Were in a cost-of-living crisis - families cant afford a clean-energy plan that pushes prices up.

But we cannot just move costs around - we need to reform the system. Thats why at TBI were calling for government to overhaul the electricity market to attract investment and cut bills, including through zonal pricing which would save the public up to 55bn by 2050.

The National Energy System Operator should also be given a new mandate to monitor net zero delivery for cost effectiveness, and their control room should be AI-ready; unlocking billions and making the system more efficient.

While we remain committed to clean power and the UKs net zero goal, we must have cheaper, reliable energy to power growth and protect households.

The Energy Crisis Commission called for the Budget, which will be delivered next Wednesday, to include details on how the government will reduce the gap between electricity and gas prices to drive forward the transition.

It said the government should consider reviewing policy costs, which help to pay for renewable energy projects and social schemes, as part of efforts to save households money.

open image in gallery Energy secretary Ed Milibands push for net-zero has been blamed for energy bills not reducing ( AP )

Currently policy costs are paid for on household bills, but the group said ministers should consider shifting some of these levies away from bills and into general taxation or spreading them more evenly between gas and electricity bills.

Louise Hellem, chief economist at the CBI, said: The UKs energy crisis remains a spectre on the cost of doing business, with highly volatile energy prices a continued drag on business investment.

Accelerating the energy transition is vital to both national energy security and mitigating the impacts of climate change.

It is a defining strategic economic opportunity for the UK and should be the backbone of a competitive, resilient economy in an uncertain world.

This wont happen unless high electricity prices are addressed.

Gillian Cooper, director of energy at Citizens Advice, said: With energy bills still far higher than before the crisis and millions in energy debt, Citizens Advice is bracing for another tough winter helping people heat their homes and keep the lights on.

Dhara Vyas, chief executive of Energy UK, said: Right now though, the government also needs to take action and help those who have been facing persistently high bills for several years.

Reducing electricity costs would both ease that burden and remove a serious barrier to the adoption of clean heat technologies.

Adam Scorer, chief executive of National Energy Action, said: For millions, the energy crisis was not a single market event. It was a worsening of a terrible norm and confirmation that a warm home would remain a vain hope.

A Treasury spokesperson said: We do not comment on budget speculation. We recognise energy costs are a significant concern for households, and this government is taking decisive action to tackle it including extending the Warm Homes Discount and funding to help upgrade thousands of low-income homes to be warmer and more energy efficient.
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French police will use large nets to stop small boats crossing the English Channel  despite warnings that such tactics could lead to deaths.

France has been under mounting pressure from the UK to intercept migrant vessels at sea amid growing public anger over illegal migration, as Labour ramps up its efforts to deter people from making the crossings in a fresh crackdown.

Emmanuel Macrons government announced in July that it would change its maritime laws to allow for interceptions, but the plans have been delayed amid concerns that it could put lives at risk.

However, it has now emerged that several French law enforcement officers have been equipped with so-called arresting nets up to 30m wide since the spring. A source familiar with the matter said they can be used in the fight against illegal immigration, as well as for tackling drug trafficking.

Two sources from the French Ministry of the Interior told investigative newsroom Lighthouse and French newspaper Le Monde that nets will be used to carry out interceptions of small boats. One explained that five or six teams would patrol the coastline to intercept the boats, each with a maritime gendarmerie vessel to undertake the manoeuvres, and a French Navy vessel in case assistance is needed.

A training manual from a company that supplied these nets, seen by Lighthouse Reports and Le Monde, states they allow one or more boats to be neutralised simultaneously by blocking their propellers.

open image in gallery A view of small boats and outboard motors used by people thought to be migrants to cross the Channel from France at a warehouse facility in Dover, Kent ( PA )

The manual says the crew can disrupt the course of a non-compliant vessel so it changes course or stops, or use the nets to compel it to comply with instructions.

Another commercial document for the same company states that the nets can be used to capture and immobilise high-speed vessels, with the intercepting boat passing the target before dropping the net once it is 10-20 metres ahead.

But Remi Vandeplanque, a French coastguard and representative of the French customs union Solidaires Douanes, warned that employing such tactics to stop people in small boats trying to reach the UK will lead to deaths and that there is no way to carry out such manoeuvres safely.

There are usually at least 50 people on board, sometimes more. Whatever you do, you will create panic or distress, and one day there will be a disaster. The first time, maybe it will be okay, once or twice. But its clear that one day there will be fatalities caused by this, he said.

You can imagine the panic on board. If you pass in front of a dinghy, you will make waves. It is not possible to do this really safely. It will be dangerous regardless. They can say whatever they want, but there is no way to do it safely.

The majority of deaths of passengers of small boats in the Channel now occur near the coast, most of them either from drowning or asphyxiation on overcrowded boats. Twenty-six people have died during crossing attempts so far in 2025, according to French data.

The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself French government source

On 30 September, a letter from the Solidaires Douanes union to the French customs general director, Florian Colas, condemned Frances plans to intercept small boats at sea as inhumane and absurd. The letter warned that such tactics risk causing shipwrecks and deaths, for which the moral and criminal responsibility would rest entirely on the personnel in charge of carrying out the interventions.

French gendarmerie, who will be carrying out the interceptions, are said to be concerned about the risk of casualties and fear officers could face criminal prosecutions as a result of deaths.

The police want guarantees. The prosecutors offices would have to make the grounds for prosecution very limited, according to a source at the Ministry of the Interior.

Impossible, retorted another source. No magistrate will agree to give the police carte blanche.

During a meeting on 10 November of French authorities involved in policing the sea, attendees agreed a criteria that must be met for interceptions at sea to be carried out.

The necessity to stop the boat must be demonstrated before intervening: showing that the boat is not suitable, that it is not a pleasure craft or a fishing boat, that the trajectory shows that it is trying to pick up people on the beach. This will not prevent prosecution if the action results in deaths, of course, said a source from the Ministry of the Interior.

It comes as France faces mounting pressure from the UK to introduce tougher measures to prevent small boats from leaving its shores. The new funding cycle for securing the Franco-British border is set to conclude in March, and the release of British funds to France is said to be contingent on Paris giving assurances of a tougher maritime security presence.

open image in gallery More than 39,000 migrants have crossed the Channel this year, up 19 per cent on 2024 ( PA )

A French government source said: The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself.

So-called taxi boats are likely to be the first targets of the new strategy, according to sources. These are vessels that travel along the coastline and pick up migrants at various locations, who then wade several meters into the water, in a bid to avoid having the boats intercepted on the beaches by law enforcement.

The taxi boats phenomenon is on the rise, with more than 56 per cent of people who arrived in the UK in 2025 being transported on such vessels, according to data from the French authorities.

The latest measures come amid mounting pressure on the UK government to slash the number of people arriving in the UK by crossing the Channel, with almost 40,000 people making the perilous journey so far in 2025.

On Monday, home secretary Shabana Mahmood unveiled a raft of hardline measures aimed at discouraging asylum seekers and making it easier to remove those who have no right to remain in the country amid growing public discord over the issue  but she is now battling growing backlash from her own MPs, some of whom believe the latest proposals go too far.

There has also been growing cooperation between Sir Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron to clamp down on migration, with the two leaders holding a joint press conference over the summer, where they announced plans for a one in, one out returns agreement, which sees some asylum seekers sent back to France after crossing the Channel.

It came after Mr Macron admitted the problem of illegal migration was a burden for both the UK and France.
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The government has been accused of fuelling an arms race of dangerous interceptions that could turn the Channel into a graveyard after it emerged that French police will use large nets to stop small boat crossings  despite warnings that such tactics could put lives at risk.

France has been under mounting pressure from the UK to reduce the number of small boats Channel crossings, with Labour ramping up its efforts to deter people from making the crossings in a fresh crackdown this week.

In July, the French government said it intended to revise its maritime laws to allow for vessel interceptions, but the proposal was postponed over fears that it might endanger lives.

It has now come to light, however, that since the spring several French law-enforcement officers have been issued arresting nets that, according to a source familiar with the development, can be deployed both in efforts to curb illegal immigration and in operations targeting drug trafficking.

MPs and campaign groups have condemned the action, with Amnesty describing the revelations as profoundly disturbing and Refugee Action saying the plans are violent, reckless and will undoubtedly increase the risk of people dying.

Labour MP Nadia Whittome said the use of nets is an extreme, inhumane policy that will put lives at risk, and Rachael Maskell said she is deeply troubled by the reports.

open image in gallery People thought to be migrants on board a small boat in Gravelines, France ( PA )

Meanwhile, Mothin Ali, deputy leader of the Green Party, accused the government of a dangerous political game of cruelty that puts vulnerable peoples lives at risk.

Two sources from the French Ministry of the Interior told investigative newsroom Lighthouse and French newspaper Le Monde that nets will be used to carry out interceptions of small boats.

But Remi Vandeplanque, a French coastguard official and representative of the French customs union Solidaires Douanes, warned that the use of such tactics to stop people in small boats trying to reach the UK will lead to deaths and that there is no way to carry out such manoeuvres safely.

There are usually at least 50 people on board, sometimes more. Whatever you do, you will create panic or distress, and one day there will be a disaster. The first time, maybe it will be OK, once or twice. But its clear that one day there will be fatalities caused by this, he said.

On 30 September, a letter from the Solidaires Douanes union to the French customs general director, Florian Colas, condemned Frances plans to intercept small boats at sea as inhumane and absurd. The letter warned that such tactics risk causing shipwrecks and deaths, for which the moral and criminal responsibility would rest entirely on the personnel in charge of carrying out the interventions.

French gendarmerie, who will be carrying out the interceptions, are said to be concerned about the risk of casualties and fear officers could face criminal prosecutions as a result of deaths.

The police want guarantees. The prosecutors offices would have to make the grounds for prosecution very limited, according to a source at the Ministry of the Interior.

Impossible, retorted another source. No magistrate will agree to give the police carte blanche.

France faces mounting pressure from the UK to introduce tougher measures to prevent small boats from leaving its shores. The new funding cycle for securing the Franco-British border is set to conclude in March, and the release of British funds to France is said to be contingent on Paris giving assurances of a tougher maritime security presence.

open image in gallery Migrants are given life jackets by the French authorities as they leave the beach onboard a small boat in Gravelines ( Gareth Fuller/PA )

A French government source said: The Brits are putting pressure on everyone, from the most junior project manager to the minister himself.

Responding to the revelations, Tom Southerden. Amnestys legal programme director, told The Independent: Reports that French officers may use large nets to disable small boats in the Channel are profoundly disturbing.

Deploying tactics designed to stop high-speed drug-smuggling vessels against overcrowded, unstable dinghies full of people seeking protection is an inherently reckless and dangerous approach.

He added: Instead of fuelling an arms race of dangerous interceptions, the UK and France should focus on expanding safe routes and improving asylum procedures. Policies that gamble with peoples lives at sea are indefensible and both governments must immediately abandon any plan that risks turning the Channel into a graveyard.

Meanwhile, Tim Naor Hilton, chief executive of Refugee Action, said: Pullbacks at sea such as the use of nets or knives to stop or slash boats are violent, reckless and will undoubtedly increase the risk of people dying.

Calling for the establishment of safe and legal routes for asylum seekers to access Britain, he added: Lets not forget that when we speak of boats, we are speaking of human beings, men, women, children, who are seeking safety and stability.

Rose Bernstein, interim director of the Joint Council for the Welfare of Immigrants, called the plans dangerous and risky, while Steve Smith from Care4Calais said it would undoubtedly put lives at risk.

It is absolutely damning of the moral vacuum that exists within the relationship between the UK and French governments that rather than creating safe routes for people to safely claim asylum in the UK, they would choose to put more lives at risk with inhumane tactics like this one, he added.

Labour MP Nadia Whittome said: This is an extreme, inhumane policy that will put lives at risk. The human cost of the governments attempts to appease the far right is devastating.

Former Labour voters are telling me they no longer recognise our party. This kind of cruelty is not what they voted for.

The Home Office has been contacted for comment.
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Plans to reform the NHS have chilling echoes of the failures around HS2, MPs have said as they warn Labour is at serious risk of not meeting its pledge to cut waiting lists.

The public accounts committee (PAC) warned that poor practices seen in the troubled project to build the high-speed rail link were being replicated in the health service and could lead to wasted effort to overhaul the NHS.

HS2 has been described by politicians as an appalling mess after billions of pounds of taxpayers money were wasted amid years-long delays.

The criticism came as MPs warned that initiatives to reduce waiting times for pre-planned care in England have not met their goals under extremely variable management of programmes.

MPs on the cross-party committee highlighted how billions have been spent to transform diagnostics and surgical services, yet the pace of change is still too slow.

The report also highlights plans to axe NHS England and absorb its functions into the Department of Health and Social Care, while reducing local health management teams, with the health department set to take responsibility for managing the initiatives to cut waiting lists.

Unless it gets a grip on the programmes, there is a serious risk that it will not meet its target for 92 per cent of the waiting list to be treated within 18 weeks by 2029, MPs wrote.

The public accounts committee is warning that billions have been spent on the NHS without a focus on making sure the investment pays off ( PA Wire )

Sir Keir Starmers plan for change pledged that by July 2029, 92 per cent of patients will be seen within 18 weeks for routine hospital treatment such as hip and knee replacements.

Clive Betts, Labour MP and deputy chair of the PAC, said: Every unnecessary day that a patient spends on an NHS waiting list is both one of increased anxiety for that persons unresolved case, and if they are undiagnosed, a steady increasing of risk to their life.

Every penny of funding spent to put the NHS back on a pre-pandemic footing must be precisely targeted, or the system itself becomes an obstacle to proper care.

Unfortunately, our report establishes that billions have been poured into the system over the past few years without the requisite focus on making sure that money does what it was intended for  improving outcomes for patients.

He also said that they are now seeing chilling echoes of past failures on HS2 as he urged the government to provide reassurance and detail on how it hopes to take its plans forward.

MPs on the committee also raised concerns about the plans to restructure the top of the health service, amid concerns that changes are being announced without either delivery plans or funding in place.

Last week, health secretary Wes Streeting confirmed that thousands of NHS staff redundancies will now go ahead after funding for the estimated 1bn cost was agreed with the Treasury.

The government has already announced that headcount across both NHS England and the Department of Health will be cut by around 50 per cent, with around 18,000 administrative staff and managers, including on local health boards, set to go.

The new PAC report states: We do not accept that it is prudent to make a major change, such as the structural changes that are being made to Integrated Care Boards (ICBs) and NHS England without ensuring there is funding in place to pay for the changes, and without conducting an impact assessment or taking other steps to safeguard value for money.

These changes, especially the planned cuts to ICBs (integrated care boards), could have a significant negative impact on patients and on the healthcare workforce through the level of uncertainty they create, and because they may limit the ability of NHS organisations to plan for the future.

We are concerned that these poor practices, previously seen with the New Hospitals Programme and the High Speed 2 programme are being replicated here and will lead to wasted effort.

The report comes as doctors stage a five-day strike over pay  the 13th such walkout since March 2023.

Shadow health secretary Stuart Andrew told The Independent: Wes {Streeting] has taken his eye off the ball. I imagine No 10 have grown tired of the showboating and are looking to clip his wings.

Referring to a recent Downing Street briefing against Mr Streeting, Tory MP Jack Rankin added: No surprise Starmer is gunning for Wes. Junior doctors are striking waiting lists are still too high and his major piece of legislation, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill , is in trouble in the Lords. 

A DHSC source told The Independent: Waiting lists increased every year for 14 years under the Conservatives. Thanks to Labours investment and reforms, waiting lists have been cut for the first time in 15 years. Thats the difference Labour is making.

Whether its the staff retention crisis, Andrew Lansleys reorganisation, or chronic underinvestment, Wes is cleaning up the mess the Tories left and rebuilding our NHS.

A DHSC spokesperson said: This government inherited a broken NHS, with waiting lists soaring and elective services in dire need of modernisation. This report focuses on the previous government, and we have taken immediate and robust action to tackle waiting lists and modernise elective care.

Through record investment and modernisation, weve cut backlogs by more than 230,000 and smashed our target for additional appointments, delivering more than five million extra. Health service productivity is up 2.7 per cent on last year.
Dan Neidle ought to be a hero to Labour MPs. It was his well-informed persistence in the face of bluster that finally established that Nadhim Zahawi, who was briefly chancellor of the Exchequer in the turbulent later stages of the last Conservative government, had been forced to agree a settlement with HM Revenue and Customs and pay a penalty.

Zahawi was sacked for a serious breach of the ministerial code. Neidle, a former tax lawyer, was accused by the Tories of being a Labour stooge and indeed he did sit on one of the partys national committees. But he has always been scrupulous about evidence and pragmatic about policy.

So when he and his advisory group say a wealth tax is a bad idea, you might expect Labour MPs to listen. But Richard Burgon, a leading light of the Socialist Campaign Group, continues to press the idea in the final days before Rachel Reevess second Budget.

What does Neidle say about a wealth tax?

When Burgon welcomed Reevess retreat from a rise in income tax, saying that a wealth tax was a fairer alternative, Neidle responded on X, saying: The idea a wealth tax is any answer to this years fiscal gap is just bonkers. Utter claptrap.

He said: I can see why some people support a wealth tax. But nobody whos spent even five minutes looking at it would think its an answer to Ms Reevess problems. So Mr Burgon either hasnt spent five minutes looking at it, or doesnt care.

Neidle produced a study of the idea of a wealth tax in June. This was its conclusion: A UK wealth tax is often promoted as an easy revenue-raiser that would only affect the very rich. Our analysis finds the opposite: the revenue is highly uncertain, and would arrive only after years of complex implementation. Most importantly, the tax would lower longrun growth and employment, thanks to a decline in foreign and domestic investment. It would make UK businesses more fragile and less competitive, and create strong incentives for capital reallocation and migration.

But dont 50 families own half the wealth in Britain?

This is one of those pseudo-statistics that is often deployed instead of research. The consensus of academic studies is that the richest 10 per cent of the UK population owns about half of all net wealth, so unless they are all related to each other, the claim is wrong.

Even if the 50 families figure were correct, it would be as much an argument against a wealth tax as for it, because it would be more likely these few individuals would leave the country.

The reality is that rich people do not have as much taxable money as most advocates for a wealth tax assume, and it is harder to tax it than it looks. All wealth taxes that have been introduced around the world have raised less than expected, with negative effects on the economy and, usually, on the political fortunes of the government imposing them.

So what should Labour do instead?

The first point to recognise is that, surprising though it may seem, the Conservative-led government of 2010-24 did make the tax system more progressive  in that the tax burden on the better-off became heavier, while those on middle and lower incomes got off lightly, even if it may not have felt like it.

It therefore becomes more and more difficult to raise large additional sums from the better-off. Rachel Reeves suggested last month Office for Budget Responsibility estimates would show that VAT on private school fees, for example, has raised money and that non-doms in general have not responded to heavier taxes by leaving. The OBR will publish updated numbers on all of those things, she said. And that scaremongering didnt pay off, because this is a brilliant country and people want to live here.

But Neidles research shows that there are limits to how much the rich can be squeezed before they leave or find ways round the new taxes. Reeves may have avoided putting up income tax in this Budget, thanks to a better-than-expected forecast from the OBR, but in the end wealth taxes are not the answer: the only way to raise significant sums is to raise the main taxes that Labour ruled out in its manifesto  the fairest of which is income tax.
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Sir Keir Starmer has refused to rule out a freeze on income tax thresholds in next weeks Budget, as Labour struggles to fill a multibillion-pound black hole in the nations finances.

As the government scrambles to find the money from other sources, the prime minister did not rule out forcing many to pay more by continuing to freeze the point at which a higher rate kicks in  the so-called fiscal drag.

Leading economists warned the move, which could see the government accused of breaking manifesto promises, risked causing more problems as it may not calm markets.

The refusal to rule out a freeze comes after the chancellor, Rachel Reeves, last week U-turned on plans for a broader increase in income tax, which spooked the markets.

open image in gallery Keir Starmer has refused to rule out hiking income tax for many by freezing the threshold at which workers pay a higher rate ( Parliament TV )

Ms Reeves has been warned that a combination of higher borrowing, sluggish economic growth and Labour U-turns means she must raise taxes or tear up her flagship borrowing rules in the Budget.

Sir Keir was tackled on the tax thresholds at Prime Ministers Questions by Tory leader Kemi Badenoch, who said continuing to freeze them would be a breach of Labour's manifesto.

She asked him: This is the first Budget to unravel before its even been delivered. The chancellors cluelessness, Im afraid, is damaging the economy now. The prime minister needs to end this shambles. So, can he confirm today that he wont break another promise by freezing income tax thresholds?

Responding, Sir Keir said: The Budget is one week today and we will lay out our plans then.

The Tory leader hit out, accusing the government of Budget chaos, which she said was causing real anxiety. People arent buying houses, businesses arent hiring, and they are cancelling investment decisions.

open image in gallery Tory leader Kemi Badenoch tackled the PM on the Budget ( House of Commons/UK Parliament )

Afterwards, a Conservative Party spokesperson said: The prime minister repeatedly failed to repeat the promise made by the chancellor in her Budget last year to end the freeze on income tax thresholds.

Rachel Reeves said any freeze in thresholds would be a breach of the Labour manifesto and would hurt working people. If she doesnt end the freeze at the Budget next week, it will be yet another broken promise from a government that has lost the trust of the British people.

Stephen Millard, the deputy director for macroeconomics at the National Institute of Economic and Social Research, told The Independent that the positives of such a move would include that it raises revenue, though later on in the parliament rather than now, and widens the tax base, negating, to a degree, the need for a rise in the basic rate.

However, he said any freeze could break the partys manifesto pledge and hit middle-income households, which will be more likely to have to pay tax at the higher rate in the future.

And it may not calm markets, given its a promise about future taxes, which could always be gone back on, rather than a rise in taxes today, he warned.
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Gunmen have attacked a church in Nigeria, killing at least two people and kidnapping the pastor and some worshippers, days after 25 girls were abducted from a boarding school.

The attack on Tuesday night in Eruku, a town in central Nigeria's Kwara state, puts more pressure on the government, which is under scrutiny from U.S. President Donald Trump who has threatened military action over what he says is persecution of Christians.

President Bola Tinubu postponed a planned trip to South Africa and Angola for G20 and AU-EU summits to receive security briefings on the two attacks, and ordered more security to hunt down the assailants in Kwara, his office said.

The president also directed the security agencies "to do everything possible" to rescue the schoolgirls, "abducted by the bandits and bring the girls back home safe", his spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said.

GRAPPLING WITH ISLAMIST INSURGENCY

Rapper Nicki Minaj appealed on Tuesday for global action to defend religious freedom. Speaking at the U.S. mission to the United Nations, the Trinidad-born artist, who lives in New York, said that in Nigeria "Christians are being targeted, driven from their homes and killed".

open image in gallery Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj speaks during the panel discussion "Combatting Religious Violence and the Killing of Christians in Nigeria" at the US Mission to the United Nations in New York City, on November 18, 2025 ( ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images )

Nigeria is grappling with an Islamist insurgency in the northeast, abductions and killings by armed gangs mainly in the northwest and deadly clashes between mainly Muslim herdsmen and mostly Christian farmers in its central belt.

The government says the U.S. designation of Nigeria as "a country of particular concern" misrepresents its complex security challenges and does not take into account its efforts to safeguard freedom of religion for all.

In the latest attack, police responded to gunfire at around 6 p.m. on Tuesday and discovered one person fatally shot inside the church and another in a nearby bush, said Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, police spokesperson for Kwara state.

Witnesses said they counted at least three dead church members.

"They later rounded up some worshippers, including the pastor, and took them into the bush," parishioner Joseph Bitrus told Reuters by phone, without saying how many were taken.

GUNFIRE ERUPTS DURING CHURCH SERVICE, VIDEO SHOWS

A video posted by a local news outlet and verified by Reuters showed the Christ Apostolic Church service being interrupted by gunfire, forcing parishioners to take cover. Armed men are seen entering and taking people's belongings as gunshots continue.

The governor of Kwara asked for the immediate deployment of more security operatives following the church attack, his spokesperson said.

Authorities have not yet located the girls abducted by armed men who stormed the predominantly Muslim Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in northwestern Kebbi state on Monday. Vice President Kashim Shettima was expected to travel to the state to meet officials and parents on Wednesday.
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Following a ban of almost three decades, pit bull terriers are once again allowed to be kept as pets in a Maryland county.

Prince Georges County authorities banned pit bulls in 1997 because officials believed the breed posed a public safety risk, citing dog-fighting incidents and attacks that had injured residents.

The ban reflected fears that pit bulls were inherently dangerous, though critics later argued it was based on stereotypes rather than data.

On Tuesday, officials voted in favor of ending the ban on pit bull terriers and pit bull-type dogs in the county.

Council Chair Ed Burroughs said thousands of these dogs already live in the County.

( Getty Images/iStockphoto )

Right now, the ban is in effect, and right now, approximately 30,000 pit bulls are living in Prince Georges County today," Burroughs said.

"The ban that were spending $3m a year to enforce, the ban that weve spent $100 million to enforce is not working.

In a press release, he added: "Today marks a monumental step forward for our county. This legislation not only prevents the inhumane euthanasia of countless dogs who pose no threat but also makes our communities safer by strengthening protections for residents against genuinely dangerous dogs.

By increasing accountability, raising civil penalties, and expanding both the definition and requirements for classifying a dog as dangerous, we are taking a comprehensive approach to responsible pet ownership. This legislation holds irresponsible dog owners accountable, ensuring that the focus remains on behavior, not breed."

Under the old law, countless dogs spent months confined to kennels, and owners were effectively banned from taking them for daily walks. Furthermore, many were automatically labeled unadoptable simply because of how they looked, rather than their behavior.

The new legislation takes a different approach. It tightens leash requirements, requiring all dogs to remain leashed unless in designated areas such as dog parks. It also raises civil penalties for dangerous dogs, setting fines at $500 for a first offense, $1,500 for a second, and $3,000 for a third.

Breedspecific bans like Prince Georges Countys former pit bull prohibition are relatively rare in the United States, though a handful of municipalities and counties still enforce them.

Most states and cities now favor general dangerous dog laws instead, and several have passed legislation explicitly preventing breedspecific restrictions. For example, Colorado and Florida permit municipalities to restrict pit bulls, whereas states like Illinois and New York have laws that prevent any breedspecific bans.

Tamika Nelson, who lives in Prince Georges County, told WUSA9 she welcomed the change in legislation because she has two pitbull terriers that were subject to the ban, and shed had to leave the county to take her dogs for walks.

Im feeling ecstatic! Nelson told the broadcaster. I just didnt feel safe in the County and didnt feel like other dog owners were held responsible. I think all dogs should be leashed, and all dogs should be held to the same level.
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A Cape Cod town spent $10 million last year to add more sand to its beach and half of it is already gone.

Town Neck Beach in Sandwich, Massachusetts, has an erosion problem, which is made worse by a jetty at the mouth of the Cape Cod Canal that blocks sand from moving onto the beaches in town, according to a NBC10 Boston report.

To remedy this issue, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers added more than 300,000 cubic yards of sand on the shoreline in a project that was completed earlier this year.

"The idea was that it would last five to seven years, but as you can see, about half of it is gone," Bill Boles from the Trustees of Sandwich Beaches, told the local outlet.

Town Neck and nearby First Beach have already lost 15 to 20 feet of the new sand before winter storms even hit the shoreline.

A Cape Cod town spent $10 million last year to add more sand to its beach, and half of it is already gone (file photo) ( Joseph Prezioso/AFP via Getty Images )

"This a very popular beach, and the town has invested a lot of money in the boardwalk," Laura Wing, president of the beach trustees, told the outlet. "I know the whole town wants to preserve it as much as possible."

Wing said that although beach erosion is a wider issue, the Cape Cod Canal interfering with sand flow is a double whammy for the coastal town.

Coastal erosion happens when the sea level rises, strong waves and flooding wear down or carry away sand and other natural materials, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

The extent and severity of coastal erosion are worsening with global sea level rise, which is mostly caused by meltwater from glaciers and ice sheets and thermal expansion of seawater, NOAA says.

"It's one of those things where you can't do nothing, David DeConto, director of natural resources for Sandwich, told NBC10 Boston. Any sand gives some protection to downtown. You never know how long it's going to last. This is not a one-time placement of sand.

The town does get some relief every five years when the Cape Cod Canal is dredged.
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President Donald Trump has agreed to proceed with the sale of the United States' most advanced fighter jet, the F-35, to Saudi Arabia, despite significant concerns that China could gain access to the aircraft's vaunted American technology.

The agreement was reaffirmed during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans recent visit to Washington.

Within the Republican administration, apprehension also exists that providing the F-35 to Saudi Arabia could undermine Israel's crucial qualitative military advantage over its neighbors. This concern is particularly salient as Trump seeks Israeli backing for his proposed Gaza peace plan.

Israel, which utilized the F-35 during its 12-day conflict with Iran in June, is one of 19 nations globally that either possess the advanced jet or have agreements in place to acquire it.

open image in gallery The agreement was reaffirmed during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans recent visit to Washington. ( Andrew Harnik/Getty Images )

It was nearly 20 years ago when the first F-35 Lightning strike fighter rolled off an assembly line in Fort Worth, Texas, hailed as a technological leap and lamented as a military money pit.

Since then, more than 1,200 of the stealth jets have been made, underpinning what Lockheed Martin says are nearly 300,000 jobs connected to its supply chain across 49 states and Puerto Rico. The planes have been delivered to the U.S. Air Force, Navy and Marines.

Here are things to know about the F-35:

The fighter jet is coveted by many

Marines used the F-35 to execute strikes against enemy targets in Afghanistan, while Italian F-35s were part of a NATO response in September to Russian aircraft in Estonian airspace.

But the stubby-nosed aircraft with twin tail fins has been criticized since its inception, in part because it was designed to serve the varying needs of three different military branches. For example, the Navy launches them off aircraft carriers, while the Marines Corps version can take off and land like a helicopter.

It is the most expensive Pentagon spending program ever  they cost up to $77 million a piece in 2023, according to the Congressional Research Service  while they have been famously beset with cost overruns and delays.

Meanwhile, China may have at least some intelligence, albeit several years old, on the planes already. The Defense Science Board, which advises the Pentagon, released a report in 2013 alleging that Chinese cyberattacks accessed data from dozens of Pentagon programs, including the joint strike fighter.

open image in gallery First proposed in the 1990s, the F-35 was meant to replace several aging fighters, including the Air Forces workhorse F-16. ( Belga/AFP via Getty Images )

The F-35 is widely recognized as Americas best and most advanced fighter jet, according to Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

Bowman noted that American military systems are constantly being updated and improved, counteracting any possible stolen secrets years ago.

Thats why you have 19 partner nations already and why countries like Saudi Arabia want it, Bowman said. If the aircraft was so compromised because of theft from the Chinese, the Saudis wouldnt want it.

First proposed in the 1990s, the F-35 was meant to replace several aging fighters, including the Air Forces workhorse F-16. The plane was designed to allow pilots to easily shift from bombing runs to aerial combat on the same mission.

Described as a fifth-generation fighter, its technologies include stealth coatings as well as advanced radar and sensors, according to the Congressional Research Service.

What makes the F-35 particularly formidable is the increased difficulty our adversaries have in detecting it, Bowman said. So if you cant see it, you cant kill it.

Bowman said the plane also has advanced sensors to better detect enemies as well as networking capabilities to communicate with allied planes and ground forces during combat.

Each plane was supposed to be relatively cheap to build, with each variation constructed on the same assembly line. But as the first F-35 prepared for its inaugural flight in 2006, the programs cost had grown substantially.

High costs for the aircraft

According to a September report from the Government Accountability Office, a Defense Department estimate said maintaining, operating and modernizing the planned 2,470 planes over a 77-year life cycle will exceed $2 trillion.

The report also found that Lockheed delivered 110 aircraft last year, all of which were late by an average of 238 days, up from 61 days in 2023.

Meanwhile, there have been concerns about readiness. In 2023, the rate at which the aircraft can perform one of its tasked missions was about 55%, far below program goals, the Government Accountability Office found. Part of the problem was delays in setting up maintenance facilities, inadequate equipment and supply issues.

Dan Grazier, a senior fellow and director of the National Security Reform Program at the Stimson Center, said the F-35 program has ultimately been a failure.

He pointed to the aircraft's stealth coating to evade radar detection, which he said requires a lot of maintenance, while a camera system to provide situational awareness also has had problems.

It does not matter what kind of transformational combat capability an aircraft has if it cannot be relied upon, he said,

The F-35 was designed to replace several different older airplanes at once, Grazier said, noting that it does a lot of things kind of well, but it doesnt do anything great.

It also costs a fortune, he said. "So you pay a fortune for an aircraft that is actually in many cases less capable than what came before it.

Lockheed Martin pushed back on such criticisms.

The F-35 is the cornerstone of the battlespace for 20 allied nations, enabling peace through strength, the company said in a statement. It is combat proven and offers the most advanced capability and technology. With more than 1 million hours flown and more than 1,255 aircraft in service, the F-35 is an indispensable contributor to global security.
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The neighbor accused of fatally shooting King of the Hill actor Jonathan Joss last summer has been indicted on one count of first-degree murder, according to court records.

A Bexar County, Texas grand jury handed down the indictment against suspect Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez shortly before noon on Monday; Cejas attorneys were formally notified Wednesday at 6:05 am, the docket shows.

Ceja, 56, was arrested and charged on June 1 with Josss murder, and was freed on $200,000 bond the next day. He has been under full house arrest  modified on July 24 to partial house arrest for employment purposes, according to case filings  since then.

Police said Ceja confessed to the killing after he was apprehended a block away from the crime scene, allegedly telling officers, I shot him.

Joss, whose legal name was Jonathan Joss Gonzales, was known for having voiced the character of John Redcorn on the hit animated series King of the Hill and for playing Chief Ken Hotate in NBCs Parks and Recreation. The 59-year-old was shot dead outside the remains of the San Antonio home he shared with husband Tristan Kern de Gonzales, 32. The couple had been living in Austin since January, when their home was damaged in a fire, and had shown up to check their mail, according to Kern de Gonzales.

open image in gallery Jonathan Joss (left) was gunned down in front of his San Antonio home on June 1. His neighbor, Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez has now been indicted for murder. ( Facebook; Getty Images via Bexar County Sheriff's Office )

Two days after Josss death, Kern de Gonzales, who said he identifies as a transgender man, recounted the terrifying moment his husband was gunned down.

Everything was really close range. It was in the head, Kern de Gonzales previously told The Independent. I held his face together while I told him how much I loved him. He could still hear me, he looked up at me and he wasn't able to talk because of the extent [of his injuries], but I could tell he was trying to say, I love you.

Although Kern de Gonzales insists the shooting was a hate crime, San Antonio Police Department officials said at first they had no evidence Josss killing was motivated by bigotry.

Should any new evidence come to light, we will charge the suspect accordingly, the SAPD said in a statement at the time.

The department later walked back its statement, saying it would look into whether homophobia played into the shooting.

The deadly confrontation followed years of feuding between Joss, Kern de Gonzales, and the suspect, according to Kern de Gonzales. He said the two were extremely upset to find the skull of one of their beloved dogs, which died in the January house fire, on display near their mailbox. (There is no mention of that in the SAPD incident report, which The Independent reviewed.)

Upon seeing the skull, Joss began screaming, which led to the eventual confrontation with the suspect, said Kern de Gonzales. In a Facebook post announcing Joss death, Kern de Gonzales alleged the shooter shouted violent homophobic slurs at the two of them before opening fire.

open image in gallery Jonathan Joss (left) and Tristan Kern de Gonzales, who believes his husband's murder was a hate crime. The couple's neighbor, Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, has now been indicted on a first-degree murder charge ( Facebook )

Local residents subsequently recounted stories of Joss sometimes being really sweet, and other times wandering down the street ranting and raving. One called Joss erratic, and claimed the actor told people that he was God. Another neighbor shared a video with local CBS affiliate KENS, purportedly showing Joss walking back and forth with a pitchfork, screaming.

However, according to Kern de Gonzales, people may have deemed Joss eccentric, but he was never a danger.

I don't care if me and my husband were walking around with one pitchfork in our hand and another pitchfork up our a**, we didn't point any weapons at anybody, Kern de Gonzales told The Independent. When the man rolled up with the gun, we were checking the mail.

San Antonio police said they responded more than 50 times between January 26, 2024, and February 9, 2025, to the home Joss and Kern de Gonzales shared.

Officers showed up at the address to handle disturbance reports, mental health and welfare checks, complaints of theft and criminal mischief, and one incident last year allegedly involving a knife, according to a call log shared with The Independent.

The final entry for the address is for a shooting in progress, the incident that ended Joss life.

Defense attorney Nico LaHood, who is representing Ceja, later told local ABC affiliate KSAT that his client had shot Joss in self-defense.

As you know, people in Texas have a right not to be a victim, LaHood told the station. You have a right to self-defense. You have a right to the defense of third persons legally and under the law, and we believe that applies here.
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Following Zohran Mamdanis win as New York Citys mayoral elect, it was not clear if NYPD Police Commissioner Jessica Tisch would remain in the post.

Mamdani announced on Wednesday that he would keep Tisch  whom Mayor Eric Adams appointed  in her role leading the largest police department in the nation.

Mamdani said Jessica Tisch has rooted out corruption in the upper echelons of the department and "led a department-wide focus on accountability and transparency, while delivering historic reductions in violent crime.

I look forward to working with Commissioner Jessica Tisch to deliver genuine public safety in New York City. Together, we will deliver a city where rank-and-file police officers and the communities they serve alike are safe, represented, and proud to call New York their home, Mamdani said on X.

Tisch has led the police department since November 2024.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

Her decision to stay on is likely to provide some level of comfort to city business leaders and others who worried that Mamdanis past harsh rhetoric about the department during the height of Black Lives Matter protests would translate into radical changes at the NYPD.

Tisch never commented on the race for mayor or Mamdanis politics during the campaign.

Last week, Mamdani and Tisch held a meeting, but it remained unclear if he had secured a commitment. Gov. Kathy Hochul, one of the chief supporters of retaining Tisch, said she was confident Tisch would stay.

Mamdani, a 33-year-old born in Uganda, will enter office in January as the first Muslim mayor in the citys history, and one of its youngest, now set to run one of the largest and most diverse cities in the United States.

More than 2 million voters cast ballots in this years mayoral election before polls had closed, a turnout that had not been seen in decades.
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An elderly man who went missing in August was likely dragged away by a bear or mountain lion after suffering a medical emergency near his home in northern California, officials said.

Authorities have been investigating the disappearance of Gil Clark, 78, since he was reported missing on August 14, but said in a recent update that it seemed Clark had been dragged off by a bear or mountain lion after a medical emergency.

Clark was known to walk a four-mile stretch of Highway 49 between Downieville and his hometown of Goodyears Bar, located about 102 miles north of Sacramento along the Yuba River.

At the time he was reported missing, authorities conducted a thorough search, but found no signs of the missing man, authorities said.

During their search, authorities witnessed significant bear activity, and neighbors reported recent mountain lion activity in the vicinity, the sheriffs office said.

open image in gallery Gil Clark, 78, has been missing since August, though authorities believe he may have been dragged away by a bear or mountain lion near his home in northern California ( Sierra County Sheriff's Office )

Deputies continued to search for Clark and, on November 14, found clothing and items belonging to the missing man, the sheriffs office said.

The following day, search and rescue personnel, along with four cadaver dogs, conducted an extensive search, authorities said, adding, Unfortunately, no further evidence was located.

The 78-year-old is believed to have been last seen in Downieville, several miles down the road from Goodyears Bar, on either August 5 or 6, the Sierra County Sheriffs Office said in August.

The Sierra County Sheriffs Office says the case remains open and deputies will continue to investigate all leads.
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A mile-long plume of toxic cancer-linked chromium in New Mexico has spread, raising health concerns for tribal community members and questions about water safety.

The underground body of contaminated water, which has existed for decades and is the result of water coolant from a power plant, has now spread onto Pueblo de San Ildefonso  a Native community  for the first time.

Contamination levels of the heavy metal are exceeding state groundwater standards, the New Mexico Environment Department announced, with recent sampling showing levels of hexavalent chromium at 53 to 72.9 micrograms per liter  markedly over the 50 micrograms per liter standard.

Discovered in 2004, the chromium comes from beneath the U.S. Department of Energys Los Alamos National Laboratory, a central site to developing the first atomic bomb in World War II.

For nearly 20 years, from 1956 to 1972, workers flushed contaminated water from its non-nuclear power plant into Sandia Canyon, which borders the 1,900-mile-long Rio Grande River. The chromium was used as a way to prevent pipes from rusting in the plants cooling towers.

open image in gallery A map shows the area of the chromium plume near Los Alamos National Laboratory ( New Mexico Environment Department )

Since then, state and Energy Department officials have worked to install a network of dozens of wells to determine the extent and nature of the plume, as well as a water treatment system to remove hexavalent chromium from the Sandia Canyon regional aquifer.

"These new results are conclusive evidence that the U.S. Department of Energy's efforts to contain the chromium plume have been inadequate," Director of Compliance and Enforcement Bruce Baizel said in a press release. "While drinking water supplies are safe for now, the Department of Energy must take immediate and definitive actions."

The Department of Energy told The Independent that it agrees with the Environment Department that the plume is not currently near any known public or private drinking water wells and is working with officials, the Office of the State Engineer and Pueblo de San Ildefonso to assess, monitor and remediate the plume.

The Environment Department said there was no imminent threat to drinking water on Pueblo de San Ildefonso or in Los Alamos County and that it is working with officials to recommend next steps.

Separately, it said the department is pursuing civil enforcement actions against the U.S. Department of Energy related to this matter.

In 2018, a proposal from Los Alamos said it would take around two years to control the plume within the Los Alamos boundary. But a plant to pump and treat the contaminated water and then inject it back into the plume was stopped in 2023, when increases in chromium were discovered in monitoring wells.

open image in gallery A graphic shows where a water treatment system was deployed to control the spread of the plume ( Department of Energy )

An independent review recommended that partial treatment resume, and it did earlier this year.

But that is how it is believed the plume has spread, Environment Department Deputy Cabinet Secretary John Rhoderick told The Independent. He said that the Department of Energy had ceased injection following a Tuesday letter from the Environment Department.

Rhoderick said that the solution to the problem still remains the same: pumping and treating. But it needs to be done with strategic locations and much more aggressively.

Thats not something they say theyre seeing from the Department of Energy.

It has to be much more aggressive. It has to be a dedicated effort. Unfortunately, the Department of Energy has not prioritized this, he said.

Whatever happens next, Rhoderick said none of the water systems or wells in the surrounding communities of Pueblo de San Ildefonso, Los Alamos and White Rock have seen chromium contamination at this point.

The communities of Los Alamos and White Rock are home to nearly 20,000 people.

The Pueblo de San Ildefonso  known also as Where the water cuts through  is a federally recognized tribe that is home to around 750 people and consists of 39,000 acres, with a history dating back to 1300 A.D.

The plume remains around five miles from the neighboring Rio Grande, which also flows across Colorado and Texas and near the Santa Fe National Forest.

"We will be taking all action necessary to ensure cleanup and accountability for this contamination," Pueblo's governor Christopher Moquino said in a statement shared with KOAT 7. "No level of chromium above natural background levels in our water is acceptable to the Pueblo."

Long-term chromium exposure can increase the risk of cancer.

Inhaled hexavalent chromium can result in nose, windpipe and lung cancer, whereas oral exposure via drinking water or food may lead to an increased risk of stomach and digestive cancers, according to the Oregon Health Authority.

open image in gallery Sunrise in the San Ildefonso Pueblo, where a toxic chromium plume has spread ( Getty Images )

The Environmental Protection Agency has a drinking water standard of 0.1 milligrams per liter per billion of total chromium, and all water systems are required to test for total chromium.

Potential implications for the health of the surrounding communities and their inhabitants remain unclear at this point  but New Mexico has a longstanding history of health impacts related to energy practices, including cancer cases tied to uranium mining. These impacts disproportionately affect native communities.

They also suffer frequent drought and water shortages, made worse by human-caused climate change. By the time a Class of 2024 high school graduate reaches retirement age, New Mexico will have 25 percent less water than the state does today, according to Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham.

Water is so scarce and so precious in our state that to hear that the resource that we need for the future has been contaminated and weve known about this contamination for 20 years and its still migrating is just unacceptable, Rachel Conn, Deputy Director of New Mexico water conservation organization Amigos Bravos, told The Independent.

The news comes as the Environment Department and the New Mexico Department of Health warned residents of the northern Mora County about groundwater with high levels of chromium and nine other metals, some of which can damage the kidneys, skin, cardiovascular and nervous systems. The metals were potentially related to firefighting efforts during the 2022 Calf Canyon/Hermits Peak Fire.

Recently, University of New Mexico research found levels of forever chemicals, or PFAS, at Holloman Lake were the highest concentrations recorded anywhere.

It is almost a nightmare the way things are going and its unfortunate, said Rhoderick. The really unfortunate piece is the common thread through all of it is its related to federal facilities or federal actions.
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Rapper Nicki Minaj has publicly backed President Donald Trumps allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria, saying at a United Nations event on Tuesday, organised by the U.S., that she intends to highlight "the deadly threat."

President Trump has previously claimed Christianity faces an "existential threat" in Nigeria and reportedly instructed the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action in the West African nation.

However, experts and local residents offer a more nuanced perspective, noting that while some attacks do target Christians, the widespread violence that has long plagued the country affects everyone indiscriminately, regardless of their background or belief.

open image in gallery Minaj spoke at the event, which came after she replied to Trump's social media post about Nigeria earlier this month ( AFP via Getty Images )

The Trinidadian-born artist thanked President Trump for his leadership and for called for urgent action "to defend Christians in Nigeria, to combat extremism and to bring a stop to violence against those who simply want to exercise their natural right to freedom of religion or belief."

She spoke at a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations along with U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz and faith leaders.

The event came after she replied to Trump's social media post about Nigeria earlier this month, saying, "No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion."

In a post Sunday on X, Pope Leo XIV said Christians are suffering discrimination and persecution in various parts of the world, pointing to Nigeria and other countries like Bangladesh, Mozambique and Sudan.

Introducing Minaj, Waltz said, "She steps on to this world stage not as a celebrity but as a witness ... to spotlight Nigeria's persecuted church" to her millions of social media followers.

Saying she was "very nervous" to speak before the panel, Minaj vowed to keep standing up "in the face of injustice" for anyone anywhere who is being persecuted for their beliefs.

"Sadly, this problem is not only a growing problem in Nigeria, but also in so many other countries around the world," she said.

open image in gallery Minaj on stage with U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz at the UN event ( ANGELA WEISS/AFP via Getty Images )

Minaj said she wanted to make clear that protecting Christians in Nigeria wasn't about taking sides or dividing people. "It is about uniting people," she said, calling Nigeria "a beautiful nation with deep faith traditions" that she can't wait to see.

The rap star did make one reference to music in her remarks, saying it has taken her around the world and she has seen how people everywhere come alive when they hear a song "that touches their soul."

"Religious freedom means we all sing our faith regardless of who we are, where we live and what we believe," Minaj said.
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Pope Leo XIV has once again condemned Donald Trump's stringent anti-immigration policies, describing the administration's treatment of foreigners living in the United States as extremely disrespectful.

Speaking from his residence in Castel Gandolfo, outside Rome, the pontiff urged people in the U.S. to look for ways of treating people humanely, treating people with the dignity that they have.

The first U.S. pontiff, Leo has escalated his disapproval of the Trump administration's approach to immigrants in recent weeks. This follows his September remarks, where he labelled their treatment inhuman, which provoked a significant backlash from some conservative Catholic figures.

In September, he called the treatment of immigrants "inhuman. ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Leo was asked by a journalist on Tuesday about a November 13 statement from the U.S. Catholic bishops' conference, which rebuked the Trump administration's polices and called for meaningful immigration reform.

It's a very important statement, the pope said.  I would just invite all people in the United States to listen to them.

He said individual countries have a right to police their borders, but that many immigrants in the U.S. are living good lives and they were being treated in a way that is extremely disrespectful, to say the least.
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Utah Valley University expected just 600 people to turn up at the event on its campus, where Charlie Kirk was assassinated in September, according to newly-released records. In reality, the headcount was closer to 3,000.

The Turning Point USA founder, 31, was shot dead on the schools campus in the community of Orem on September 10 while taking part in an outdoor debating session with students at its Sorensen Student Center courtyard on what was intended to be the first leg of his American Comeback tour.

Kirk, a married father of two, was shot in the neck by a snipers bullet fired from a nearby rooftop. A suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested following a brief manhunt.

open image in gallery Charlie Kirk speaks before he is shot during Turning Point USA's visit to Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday September 10, 2025 ( AP )

Robinson was subsequently charged with aggravated murder, one count of felony discharge of a firearm, two counts of obstruction of justice, two counts of witness tampering, and one count of violence committed in the presence of a child. Utah state prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty, and he is due back in court in January.

We had probably over 3,000 people who were in attendance, UVU Police Chief Jeffrey Long told reporters at a press conference shortly after the incident, stating that he had six officers working at the event and that Kirk had brought his own security team.

But, in a partially-redacted questionnaire seen by ABC News, it is revealed that a student member of Turning Points UVU chapter had initially selected a 200+ box on an online form estimating the likely attendance during the planning stage, an assessment that was subsequently placed at 600 but was still well short of the final total, as it transpired.

Officers protect students, employees, visitors, and property, and take a proactive approach to crime prevention, education, and community engagement, UVU said in a statement defending its campus security.

UVU is currently in the process of hiring eight additional police officers. UVU is also hiring two new security managers to provide additional oversight and support for campus events.

A Turning Point USA official offered more details about the booking when they told ABC: On an online form submitted in early July, a TPUSA UVU chapter member selected 200+ as the max attendance option available on the school's online form.

An estimate of 600 was later provided a few weeks later via an event request form, which was based on a similar event the year prior at the University of Utah.

open image in gallery Kirks crowd reacts in horror as they realise he has been shot ( AP )

Subsequent conversations between school officials and TPUSAs Safety Team updated that estimate to 1,500-2,000 based on more recent Prove Me Wrong campus events. The events are un-ticketed and open to the public, including those just walking by, but PD and event coordinators estimated the attendance at approximately 3,000.

The documents released by UVU also show a person whose name is redacted, suggesting in August that a change of venue should be considered, writing: We think that the FL Quad would be a better space-wise for the group, if they get a large crowd in the area. This recommendation was apparently considered but ultimately not taken up.

The Turning Point member who completed the original questionnaire and scheduled the event answered no to the question: Will EMS [emergency medical services] need to be scheduled for your event? That meant that there was no first aid station on hand, so Kirk had to be taken to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately died, rather than be treated by medics at the scene.

Earlier this week, a poll conducted by NBC revealed that a majority of Americans believe extreme political rhetoric was the principal cause behind Kirks killing, revealing rare cross-party agreement on the opinion that inflammatory language used by prominent political figures and the media had been a decisive factor, rather than simply attributing the attack to the actions of a disturbed individual.
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The only House Republican to vote against the release of the Epstein files has disclosed his reasons for opposing the release.

The bill, which will force the release of the files, passed 427-1 after months of delay by Congress.

Republicans broke with their leader, Donald Trumps, long-held stance that the files should not be released, in a potentially decisive blow to the formerly rock-solid MAGA base.

Clay Higgins was the only representative to stick with his partys previous position and said that he feels that releasing the files amounts to an abandonment of 250 years of criminal justice procedure.

open image in gallery Clay Higgins was the only representative to vote against the release of the Epstein files ( Copyright 2022 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

"I have been a principled 'NO' on this bill from the beginning, he wrote on X. What was wrong with the bill three months ago is still wrong today. It abandons 250 years of criminal justice procedure in America.

As written, this bill reveals and injures thousands of innocent people  witnesses, people who provided alibis, family members, etc.

"If enacted in its current form, this type of broad reveal of criminal investigative files, released to a rabid media, will absolutely result in innocent people being hurt. Not by my vote."

He did confirm that he would vote for an amended House bill if that included the censoring of the names of victims and other Americans who are named but not criminally implicated.

However, underneath his post, an amendment, rated as helpful by X users, disputes Higgins claim.

Rep. Higgins claim misrepresents H.R.4405, the fact-checking memo reads. The bill includes redactions for victims & uninvolved individuals.

Massie explained victims cant release names due to lawsuits forcing them into homelessness, and the petition was not yet eligible three months ago.

open image in gallery Even Republicans known for their loyalty to Trump, such as Marjorie Taylor Greene, voted for their release ( AFP/Getty )

The U.S. Senate fast-tracked a vote on the Epstein files shortly after the House ruling and approved their release.

That means that it falls upon Trump to sign the release of the files into law, something he has promised to do should Congress vote accordingly.

The president has previously branded the Epstein case as a hoax, and insisted that he broke off his friendship with the convicted pedophile because he was a sick pervert.

In recent days, under pressure from both sides, Trump has made a sudden about-turn on his view that the files should not be released and even called on Republicans to vote in favor of the House bill, despite the president being able to sign an order forcing their release anyway.

open image in gallery The US Senate has voted for the release of the files, meaning there has been full Congressional approval on the move ( Getty )

He has since been branded as weak by Democrats, who suggested his policy reversal was a political choice to salvage some authority, despite his party breaking with his long-held stance.

Now he is panicking and has realized he is about to lose this Epstein vote to force the Department of Justice to release the files, Robert Garcia, a Democrat, said in a statement seen by The Guardian. Lets be crystal clear: Trump has the power to release all the files today.

But instead, he wants to continue this cover-up and launch bogus new investigations to deflect and slow down our investigation. It wont work. We will get justice for the survivors.
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Tesla CEO Elon Musk just got a pay raise  and now, hes on pace to out-earn all elementary school teachers in the U.S. combined, a new report reveals.

Tesla shareholders approved a $1 trillion pay package for Musk earlier this month. The raise marks the largest corporate pay package in history, according to Reuters. The 54-year-old is the worlds wealthiest person, with an estimated net worth of more than $466 billion as of Tuesday afternoon, according to Forbes.

While Musk could earn $1 trillion from stock over the next decade under the package, some required payments could bring the total value down to $878 billion, Reuters reports.

If Musk earns $1 trillion over the next decade, he could earn an average of $100 billion each year. At that rate, the worlds richest man could make $3 billion more each year than all 1.4 million elementary school teachers in the nation combined, according to a new data analysis project by The Washington Post.

Teaching isnt the only essential profession Musk is set to out-earn, according to the outlets analysis. Each year, Musk will earn $72 billion more than all 107,950 family medicine physicians in the U.S. Musk will also out-earn all 1,057,660 construction laborers by about $46 billion.

open image in gallery Elon Musk, the world's richest man, is set to earn more in a year than all elementary school teachers in the U.S. combined, a new report reveals ( Getty Images )

The worlds richest man isnt on track to beat every profession, according to the Posts analysis. Musks average yearly payment roughly equals the combined paychecks of all 3.2 million cashiers in the U.S.

Americas 747,750 lawyers are also set to out-earn Musk, with his average annual payment coming in at three-quarters of their combined earnings.

Over 75 percent of Tesla shareholders backed Musks new payment package, according to company officials. News of the approval sent cheers through the audience of investors at the annual shareholders meeting in Austin, Texas, earlier this month.

open image in gallery Elon Musk is the world's richest man, with a net worth of more than $466 billion as of Tuesday ( Getty Images )

Id like to thank the Tesla board for their immense support, Musk told the crowd. We have a fantastic board, a fantastic group of shareholders...What were about to embark upon is not merely a new chapter in the future of Tesla but a whole new book.

In addition to Tesla, Musk owns several other tech companies, including the aerospace firm SpaceX, the social media site X and the neurotechnology company Neuralink. Musk was also once close with President Donald Trump and led the administrations Department of Government Efficiency for several months earlier this year.

While Trump and Musk had an explosive and public fall-out over the summer, their feud appears to have calmed since.

Its good with him. I like Elon, Ive always liked Elon. Its good, Trump said of Musk last month. On and off, a little bit, very little. Look, hes a nice guy and hes a very capable guy. Ive always liked him.
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Now that President Donald Trump has signed a bill to force the Justice Department to release the Jeffrey Epstein files, the DOJ will have 30 days to share all documents related to the late convicted sex offender.

Congress rushed through the Epstein Files Transparency Act after months of resistance from Trump and Republican House leadership.

I have just signed the bill to release the Epstein files! Trump wrote in all-caps in a Truth Social post Wednesday night. Democrats have used the Epstein issue, which affects them far more than the Republican Party, in order to try and distract from our AMAZING Victories.

A drawn-out fight by survivors of Epsteins abuse, MAGA, rebel GOP reps and Democrats culminated in the bill clearing the House and the Senate Tuesday.

The legislation calls for Attorney General Pam Bondi to release the remaining unclassified records in the case relating to the disgraced financier, who died by suicide in his jail cell in August 2019 while facing federal sex trafficking charges.

open image in gallery President Donald Trump announced Wednesday he had signed a bill to force the Justice Department to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein ( REUTERS )

Epstein survivors and campaigners were jubilant as they watched the bill sail through the upper chamber, but questions remain as to when the files might finally be released, particularly because Bondi still has the power to redact and omit certain records.

So far, the Justice Department has stayed silent on how it will proceed, and there is some trepidation that Bondi could put the brakes on the release of the files, despite the newly signed bill.

What is in the Epstein Files Transparency Act?

The legislation calls on Bondi to release all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials held by the Justice Department, FBI and each U.S. Attorneys Office related to Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell within 30 days.

It also calls for files to be released that relate to individuals, including government officials, named or referenced in connection with criminal activities in the case, and any corporate, nonprofit, academic or governmental entities with known or alleged ties to the trafficking or financial networks of Jeffrey Epstein.

But the bill also gives Bondi the power to withhold records that contain sensitive information about a victim or child witness, depict or contain child pornography or any image of death, physical abuse or injury of any person.

Crucially, the bill also states that Bondi can withhold or redact documents that would jeopardize an active federal investigation or prosecution, or contain information specifically authorized under criteria established by an Executive order to be kept secret, citing national defense or foreign policy.

How did Trump go from opposing the bill to signing it?

Trump initially strongly opposed the bill, calling the few Republicans who supported the measure from the start weak.

Even in his announcement of the bills signing, the president referred to the Epstein files as a Democrat hoax.

But on Sunday, Trump made a surprising U-turn, telling House Republicans to support the bill after a growing number of GOP lawmakers signaled theyd back the measure.

He later promised to sign the bill if it got through the House and the Senate  though Trump had the power all along to order the release of the files with or without Congress.

House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was deeply disappointed that the Senate approved the bill without making further amendments, and said he and Trump both have concerns.

open image in gallery Trump initially strongly opposed the bill, calling the few Republicans who supported the measure from the start weak ( Getty )

Democratic Senator Richard Blumenthal told CNN that he believed 30 days would be a more than sufficient time for the Justice Department to release the files.

Republican Senators Thom Tillis and Eric Schmitt also told CNN the Justice Department should comply with the bill and release the files.

What has the Department of Justice said?

The department has kept relatively quiet about the bill to release the files.

Bondi addressed the Epstein files saga on her X account on last Friday, where she responded to a Truth Social post from Trump instructing her to launch an investigation into Epsteins Democratic associates.

Thank you, Mr. President. SDNY U.S. Attorney Jay Clayton is one of the most capable and trusted prosecutors in the country, and Ive asked him to take the lead, Bondi said. As with all matters, the Department will pursue this with urgency and integrity to deliver answers to the American people.

In a press conference on Wednesday, Bondi said the department will continue to follow the law, when asked what her plan was after Congress passed the bill.

Now the biggest question that remains is whether the Trump administration will argue that this investigation means that the documents cannot be released.

open image in gallery Bondi invited right-wing influencers to a White House photo-op where they received binders of documents containing information largely already in the public domain ( AFP via Getty Images )

Bondi has already faced the wrath of MAGA after claiming in February that the files were sitting on [her] desk, and invited right-wing influencers to a White House photo-op where they received binders of documents containing information largely already in the public domain.

Then, the Justice Department and FBI issued a joint memo in July, effectively drawing a line under the case by stating that no further documents would be released.

Since then, the issue has refused to die down, and the White House became engulfed in a months-long controversy.

A former White House lawyer in Trumps first term, Ty Cobb, told CNN that he believed that Bondi would stop the release of the files by citing the ongoing investigation.

I think [Trump] and Bondi have determined that they'll try to use Trump-ordered 'investigations' of Democrats  but not Republicans, as he stated  as a bar to producing anything, Cobb told the network.

I think it'll be a long time before we see anything, although there are certain documents that could be easily produced.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said it was a very reasonable concern.

Theres no reason to believe that theyre going to behave in any kind of independent fashion, particularly now that Donald Trump has, once again, charged the Department of Justice with weaponizing the federal government against people he perceives to be his political adversaries, the Democrat said.
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House Speaker Mike Johnson railed against legislation to release the Jeffrey Epstein files for more than a month but eventually caved to pressure Tuesday and joined the other 426 representatives who voted for the bill.

Now it appears Johnson is furious with the Senate for approving the Epstein Transparency Act, despite voting for it himself.

I am deeply disappointed in this outcome, Johnson told MSNOW on his way out of Tuesday evenings glitzy state dinner with the Saudi crown prince Mohammad bin Salman.

President Donald Trump is expected to sign the bill into law, though the timetable remains unclear.

Johnsons hand was forced after the president made a U-turn at the 11th hour Sunday, urging Republicans to pass the measure. Johnson voted for it despite what he said were serious deficiencies and previously blasted the bill as a shiny object.

open image in gallery House Speaker Mike Johnson railed against the Jeffrey Epstein bill for months but eventually caved to pressure Tuesday and joined the other 426 representatives who voted for it. However, he said, he was deeply disappointed the Senate passed the Epstein bill without any amendments. ( Reuters )

I was just told that Chuck Schumer rushed it to the floor and put it out there preemptively, Johnson told the reporter. It needed amendments. I just spoke to the president about that. Well see what happens.

Johnson added that both he and Trump have concerns about the bill as it stands and was asked whether the president could veto it when it lands on his desk.

Im not saying that. I dont know, said a frustrated Johnson, who said he opposed releasing the files on the grounds that it could reveal the identities of many of the victims.

Many survivors of Epstein and his accomplice Ghislaine Maxwell lobbied Congress to declassify files related to Epstein.

Ahead of Tuesdays House vote, Johnson oozed confidence that the Senate would amend the bill but it sailed through the upper chamber without any amendments.

Prior to the House vote, the speaker said he had spoken with Senate Majority Leader John Thune and he expected senators to amend the bill if it got to the upper chamber.

I'm very confident that when this moves forward in process, if and when it is processed in the Senate  which is no certainty, that that will be  that they will take the time methodically to do what we have not been allowed to do in the House, Johnson said. Amend this discharge petition and to make sure these protections are there.

But after the House held the vote, Thune poured cold water on that idea.

open image in gallery Epstein survivors held a vigil hosted by the Democratic Womens Caucus following the House vote to release the files ( Getty )

When a bill passes the House 427 to one and the president said he'll sign it into law, I'm not sure that there's going to be a need for an amendment or desire for an amendment process, Thune told The Independent.

Thune told reporters he had spoken with the speaker a bit and had been in consultation with the White House for some time.

The conclusion was when it came out of the House 427 to one that, you know, it was going to pass in the Senate, Thune added.

Johnson spent more than a month swerving the vote after Trump labeled it a hoax. He kept the chamber in recess through the entire month of October and avoided swearing in Rep. Adelita Grijalva, the 218th signature on the discharge petition, in an attempt to stave it off.

That was until Trump changed his tune, and days later Johnson voted to approve the measure.

John Bowden contributed reporting
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A new poll shows that three out of four Americans oppose the way Donald Trumps administration handled documents related to Jeffrey Epstein as legislation to declassify it sits on the presidents desk.

The Marquette University Law School surveyed 1,052 people nationwide between Nov. 5 and Nov. 12.

The poll found that Trumps handling of documents related to the pedophile financier was his third-worst polling issue, ahead of only the government shutdown and his administrations providing between $20 to $40 billion to shore up Argentina.

Only 26 percent of Americans approve of the way Trump has handled the affair, while 74 percent disapprove. A majority of Republicans also disapprove of the way Trump has handled the issue of releasing the Epstein documents, with 57 percent of Republicans disapproving of the way Trump has managed it.

The poll also shows both women and men overwhelmingly disapprove of how Trump has handled the Epstein matter  73 percent of men disapprove and 74 percent of women. Americans between the ages of 18 and 29 overwhelmingly did not approve, with 84 percent of young people registering their displeasure with his handling of the matter.

Reps. Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) and Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) led the efforts to release files related to Jeffrey Epstein. ( AFP/Getty )

It was Trump who reinvigorated the matter. During the 2024 presidential campaign he promised voters that he would declassify information related to Epstein. But in July, the Department of Justice and the FBI released a two-page memo that said Epstein did not have a client list and that the sex trafficker likely killed himself in federal custody in 2019, despite conspiracy theories about his hanging death in jail.

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives swiftly passed legislation to release the documents in a stunning 427-to-1 vote. Initially, Trump and House Speaker Mike Johnson opposed the legislation, with Trump calling the whole matter a Democrat hoax.

Afterward, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) requested unanimous consent so that the bill would automatically be considered passed the moment the House sent the text to the upper chamber. The bill officially arrived at the Senate on Wednesday morning and headed to Trumps desk immediately.

That led to Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) filing a discharge petition to force a vote on the floor. Along with every Democrat, Republican Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Nancy Mace of South Carolina all signed the petition. That led to Trump turning his wrath on Massie and un-endorsing Greene.

Then, over the weekend, Trump changed his mind and said he would support the vote to release documents related to the late convicted sex offender who trafficked teenage girls.

That opened the door for the massive vote to pass the legislation. At roughly the same time, Trump directed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Epsteins involvement with prominent Democratic elected officials like former president Bill Clinton, former government officials like ex-Treasury secretary Larry Summers and LinkedIn founder and prominent Democratic donor Reid Hoffman.

By far Trump has the highest approval rating for his handling of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire in Gaza, with 67 percent of Americans approving of it and 54 percent approve of his border security policy. But 55 percent of Americans disapprove of his immigration policy.

The poll also has a mixed picture for Democrats. In September, 53 percent of Democratic voters approved of Democrats in Congress.

But in November, after Democrats opposed a continuing resolution to keep the government open in hopes of extending enhanced tax credits for the Affordable Care Acts health insurance marketplace, 64 percent of Democratic voters approved of their party leaders in Congress.

Marquette conducted the poll after Democrats swept races in New Jersey, Virginia, New York City and Georgia among other areas thanks to large voter turnout and backlash against Trump. But the poll ended as a handful of moderate Democratic senators brokered a deal to end the shutdown.

The poll also found that 49 percent of voters would expect to vote for a Democrat in the 2026 midterm election compared to 44 percent who expect to vote for a Republican in the midterm.
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A former FBI employee has sued the agency, Director Kash Patel and Attorney General Pam Bondi, claiming he was unjustly fired for displaying an LGBTQ Pride flag at his desk.

David Maltinsky filed the suit in Washington D.C.s federal district court on Wednesday, alleging that his First and Fifth Amendment rights were violated, according to a press release issued by his attorney. He is requesting that the court return him to his job and compensate him for lost wages.

Maltinsky, a longtime FBI employee, was fired in early October while training to become an FBI special agent in Quantico, Virginia.

Patel terminated him due to an inappropriate display of political signage. The sole signage at Maltinskys work station was a rainbow Pride flag, according to the release.

Davids dream was to serve our country as an FBI Special Agent, Christopher Mattei, his attorney, said in the release. When that dream was cruelly taken from him, he stayed true to his oath and is now fighting to protect the rights of all Americans.

When contacted by The Independent, representatives for the FBI and the Justice Department declined to comment.

open image in gallery FBI Director Kash Patel was named as a defendent alongside Attorney General Pam Bondi. ( Reuters )

Maltinsky first joined the agency in 2009, following an internship at the Los Angeles Field Office.

He embarked on a career investigating cybercrime and public corruption, earning multiple awards for his service, including the FBI Directors Award for Outstanding Service in Diversity and Inclusion.

In 2025, he was accepted into the FBI Special Agent Training Academy in Virginia. In June, he cleared out his work station in Los Angeles  including the Pride flag  and relocated to the East Coast, according to The Wall Street Journal, which obtained a copy of the lawsuit.

At some point after President Donald Trump returned to office, a bureau employee reported concerns about displaying the Pride flag to his supervisor. Maltinskys supervisor and another official said the flag was allowed, according to the suit.

Trump has repeatedly pledged to crack down on woke ideology in and out of government.

open image in gallery Maltinsky, a longtime FBI employee, said the rainbow flag at his work station was not a political statement. ( Cliff Owen )

However, after relocating to Virginia, and just three weeks prior to his graduation, Maltinsky was fired.

He received a letter signed by Patel that said he was dismissed from the program and federal service and exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage at his previous assignment, according to the Wall Street Journal.

I displayed that Pride flag  which in 2021 flew in front of the Wilshire Federal Building  not as a political statement, but as a symbol of inclusion, unity, and equal service, Maltinsky said in the release. These are the values that once made the FBI strong.

When he received the news of his dismissal, he sent a message to his trainee class group chat.

I have loved working here and getting to know you over the past 16 weeks, he wrote, according to The New York Times. My chapter here may be over but yours is just beginning. Stay strong. Be the future leaders of the F.B.I. I know you are and what the people deserve.

Maltinsky is not alone in being dismissed over his perceived political beliefs. Under Patels leadership, dozens of FBI employees deemed opposed to Trump or conservatism have been fired, The Independent previously reported.
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Podcaster Joe Rogan mocked President Donald Trump over his handling of the Epstein files  and admitted he considered purchasing the deceased sex offenders private island in the Caribbean.

During a wide-ranging interview with comedian Brian Simpson released on Wednesday, Rogan took aim at Trumps dramatic change in tune regarding Epstein, who is once again in the national spotlight.

I heard theres no files. I heard its a hoax, the Texas-based podcast host said. And then all of a sudden hes going to release the files. I thought there was no files. He wants an investigation now! Like, what is going on?

The Republican president has repeatedly described the controversy surrounding Epstein as a hoax perpetuated by Democrats. And, he previously attempted to persuade GOP lawmakers from voting for a bill mandating the Department of Justice to release its files on Epstein, who died in prison in 2019.

But, over the weekend, Trump suddenly reversed course. In a Sunday post on Truth Social, the president wrote, House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide.

open image in gallery Joe Rogan mocked Trump over his handling of the Epstein files in a recent interview. ( JRE )

On Tuesday, the House voted nearly unanimously to compel the Justice Department to make public its files on Epstein. On Wednesday, the Senate passed the bill, which will now head to Trump. He previously said he would sign it.

Trump has maintained that he did nothing wrong and that he cut ties with Epstein years ago. He says he knew nothing about Epsteins criminal behavior.

The Republican president also recently instructed the Justice Department and the FBI to investigate Epsteins links to former President Bill Clinton, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers and others.

Summers private emails with Epstein were made public last week, when a House committee released a trove of documents from the late pedophiles estate. In one 2018 exchange, Epstein described himself as Summers wing man. Summers has been married since 2005. On Wednesday, he released a statement saying, I am deeply ashamed of my actions and recognize the pain they have caused.

open image in gallery Rogan at Trump's inauguration in January ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery During the interview released Wednesday, Rogan revealed that he once expressed interest in buying Epsteins island ( REUTERS )

During the two-hour podcast interview, Rogan revealed that he once expressed interest in purchasing one of Epsteins most notorious properties: Little Saint James, a small private island in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Multiple women have testified in court that they were trafficked to and abused on the Caribbean isle, known by locals as Pedophile Island. It was bought by billionaire investor Stephen Deckoff in 2023 for $60 million.

We looked at that island, Rogan told Simpson. We were trying to buy it, he said. We were actually  I shouldnt say we were trying to buy it, we were thinking about it very briefly... But it was too expensive. It was like 55 [million].

What? Its not discounted now? Simpson asked.

Thats the discount! Rogan responded.

Rogan, who hosts one of the most popular podcasts in America, hosted Trump on his show in October last year, ahead of the 2024 presidential election. On the eve of Election Day, the comedian and former UFC commentator endorsed Trump. He wrote on X that Elon Musk makes what I think is the most compelling case for Trump you'll hear, and I agree with him every step of the way.

Since then, Rogan has criticized the Trump administration on multiple occasions, including over his decision to deploy the National Guard to U.S. cities and over his aggressive immigration tactics. On other occasions, hes appeared to signal his support for Trump, telling podcast guests in October that Trump should run for California governor and fix the state.
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Controversial Colorado Republican Lauren Boebert reacted furiously when a resolution to censure Democratic Rep. Stacey Plaskett over her text messages with Jeffrey Epstein was defeated.

Boebert's anger was not just reserved for Democrats but also for members of her own party.

According to reports, Boebert, who has petitioned for the release of the Epstein files and is a member of the House Freedom Caucus, pushed for the action against Plaskett and was seen yelling on the House floor and wagging her finger at Republicans who voted against the resolution.

Three Republican representatives and all Democrats voted no to the resolution, sparing Plaskett, who represents the US Virgin Islands in Congress as a non-voting delegate.

Plaskett appeared to be messaging with the late, disgraced financier in February 2019 before she questioned President Donald Trumps former fixer, Michael Cohen, and asked Epstein for guidance in one message, the Washington Post reported.

open image in gallery Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert leaves Capitol Hill after voting in favor of releasing the Epstein files ( Associated Press )

The messages were included in the tranche of 20,000 documents released by the House Oversight Committee last week, though her name was redacted.

Epstein had links to the U.S. Virgin Islands and some of its public figures. He donated money to politicians, including Plaskett, according to a2023 Business Insider expose. The pedophile financiers primary residence was on the island of Little Saint James.

The failure of the resolution to censure Plaskett meant that the threat of a counter-censure by the Democrats against Florida congressman Cory Mills was abandoned.

Mills behaviour has been the subject of headlines recently after a Florida county judge granted a restraining order against him following a request by an ex-girlfriend who accused him of harassing her and threatening to release intimate photos after their breakup earlier this year. Mills has denied wrongdoing.

According to a report in The Hill, Boebert also went up to Mills at one point, pointed at him, and shouted at him.

Following the breakdown of the alleged partisan tit-for-tat censuring efforts, Anna Paulina Luna, another Florida Republican representative, tried to raise an inquiry from the floor to express her frustration with both parties conduct.

I was wondering if the Speaker of the House of Representatives can explain why leadership on both sides, both Democrat and Republican, are cutting back-end deals to cover up public corruption in the House of Representatives for both Republican and Democrat members of Congress, she asked.

open image in gallery Cory Mills looks on at a press conference. He's being accused by Miss United States of sextortion, which he denies ( Getty Images )

Following her question, Boebert whooped in approval and yelled: Get it, girl.

Despite the vocal support from her colleague, Lunas inquiry was rejected for failing to follow the correct protocols.

Thank you very much, but I think the American people know what happened tonight, Luna said.

Boebert is one of three Republican women, alongside Representatives Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, who are together exerting pressure on the White House to release the Epstein files.

The firebrand conservative was summoned to the White House last week for what was reportedly a crisis meeting in the Situation Room to try to get her to remove her name from the petition, but she declined.

Days after the meeting, Trump changed his own position on the release of the files, turning 180 degrees from his stance that the Epstein case and the pleas of his victims for public disclosure were merely a Democrat hoax, to suddenly urging Republicans to pass the measure and saying he would sign it if it were also passed in the Senate.

Despite the Republican leaderships efforts to halt the legislation that would force the release of the files, on Tuesday, an almost unanimous vote in the House now means the Department of Justice must make public all of its files on Epstein.

When, or if, all the files will ultimately be released remains unclear.
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A prominent Republican Congresswoman has defended Donald Trump after he told Bloomberg reporterCatherine Lucey to be quiet, piggy.

Representative Maria Elvira Salazar said that Trump looked "picturesque," as he scolded the journalist, and also remarked that no one is perfect.

Salazar defended the commander-in-chief while speaking to CNN host Jake Tapper on yesterdays episode of The Lead, where she also let slip that she thinks Trump is a difficult politician.

You know, President Trump is a very picturesque, and difficult, and different type of politician, Salazar said. But I always say that I look at his policies and not at his personality.

No one is perfect. Those who are perfect are in heaven.

open image in gallery Maria Elvira Salazar, a congresswoman in the House of Representatives, has defended Trump after he called a female reporter piggy ( Getty Images )

The president has had several run-ins with journalists over the past few days, with his string of spats kicking off with his branding of the Bloomberg reporter as a piggy.

Trump was answering a question about deceased pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, with whom he claimed to have a very bad relationship, before moving on to another journalists question.

When the first reporter tried to follow up on her question, Trump raised a single finger at her before demanding that she be quiet, quiet piggy.

Speaking in a cartoonish voice, the president leaned towards her before swiftly moving on to brag about the fact that he has made up his mind on his plan to deal with the rising tensions between the United States and Venezuela. He refused to elaborate on what those plans will actually involve.

open image in gallery Trump waved a finger in the reporters direction and leaned towards her as he called her piggy ( YouTube/@The White House )

White House correspondent for MS Now, Vaughn Hillyard, tweeted the official response to the criticism, dismissing the controversy.

This reporter behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane. If youre going to give it, you have to be able to take.

On Monday, The Atlantic published a feature detailing Trumps long history of denigrating female journalists, including one of his biggest boosters, Megyn Kelly.

There was blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever, Trump famously said after a Republican primary debate hosted by Fox News where he felt the host had unfairly treated him.

In a further response, California Governor Gavin Newsom posted several memes showing Trump with a photo-shopped pig nose as well a picture showing him with Epstein with the caption: Piggies.

Another former Fox News host, Gretchen Carlson, called Trumps remarks disgusting and degrading. While Tapper tweeted the clip with the words, Disgusting and completely unacceptable.

open image in gallery Former Miss Universe Alicia Machado with Trumpin 1996, she later accused him of calling her Miss Piggy and telling her to lose weight ( CBS News )

Luceys employer, Bloomberg, also reacted to the presidents reaction to the question.

Our White House journalists perform a vital public service, asking questions without fear or favor. We remain focused on reporting issues of public interest fairly and accurately.

Former Miss Universe Alicia Machado accused Trump of calling her Miss Piggy and telling her to lose weight in the 1990s.

Meanwhile, April Ryan, a White House correspondent, told The Guardian this week that a Trump official, Lynne Patton, called her Miss Piggy in 2018.

The president of the United States is supposed to be the moral leader, the leader of the country, and hes acting like some thug on the street. Its one thing for his minions to say that, but for him to call a woman that? That also shows how upset he is about the Epstein files. It lets us know that theres probably some fire there.

Later, he clashed with ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce in the Oval Office while taking questions alongside Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman.

The Saudi leader was on his first state visit to the United States following the murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

Trump became defensive when addressed by Bruce and said that the license should be taken away from ABC, because your news is so fake and wrong.
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First Lady Melania Trump and Second Lady Usha Vance spent Wednesday visiting military service members and their families at Camp Lejeune in North Carolina to thank them for their service ahead of the holiday season  though part of the first ladys message was briefly cut off due to tech issues.

While addressing servicemembers and families in the Lejeune High School gymnasium, Trumps microphone began emitting loud feedback, forcing the first lady to stop her speech and hand over the mic to be fixed.

After a roughly 15-second intermission, the first lady restarted her speech, in which she thanked military families for supporting servicemembers.

Lets start again, this is much better, Trump said, leading to applause from the audience for the working microphone.

"I want to thank you, all of you, because you are military families behind our nation's defense, and thank you for your service. My husband, the president, is sending best regards. We are both thinking of you, and youre in our thoughts and prayers for holidays, every day, but especially for the holidays, Trump said.

open image in gallery Melania Trump was taken off guard during a speech a military base high school after her microphone began emitting large feedback ( AP )

She thanked those who helped package 2,000 care packages for service members stationed away from home and invited audience members to visit her at the White House.

Trumps brief speech came after she and Vance visited a high school classroom to meet with students taking advanced placement classes, discuss artificial intelligence advancement and listen to a presentation on how social media impacts adolescents wellbeing.

Trump has made educating young people about artificial intelligence and encouraging its implementation in innovation part of her initiatives during her second stint as first lady.

Trump and Vance also visited DeLalio Elementary School, where they met with young students and discussed the first ladys Be Best initiatives  her first-term campaign to encourage kindness and discourage cyberbullying.

As second lady, Vance has made childhood literacy a key initiative of hers. This past summer, she launched a Summer Reading Challenge that offered prizes to encourage young students to read more.

open image in gallery Trump met with young students at DeLalio Elementary School at Marine Corps Air Station New River as part of a Thanksgiving message to military families ( AFP via Getty Images )

After meeting with families, Trump and Vance addressed service members and their families at Marine Corps Air Station New River, where Vance praised military families for serving as a model for our country.

Today, Ive had the privilege of spending time with your families at the elementary and high school on base, Vance said. At a time when children around the country are struggling, it is so heartening to see thriving schools and engaged students.

Trump also praised the military base schools for encouraging the use of AI to innovate, reminding service members that students will lead the Marine Corps in the future.

Lejeune High School demonstrated today that its ready to lead, Trump said. The schools ecosystem of educators, administrators, parents, and students is poised to drive innovation for America. They have fully embraced the presidential artificial intelligence challenge, showcasing creativity and technical vision for the future of AI.
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Democrats hold a hefty 14-point lead over Republicans among registered voters asked who they would vote for in generic 2026 midterm matchups, a new poll finds.

The polling, conducted by Marist, NPR and PBS, showed that 55 percent of registered voters say they would support a Democratic candidate for Congress in their district if the election were held today. Only 41 percent of voters said they would support a Republican.

That is the widest lead that Democrats have had on the generic ballot for the Marist poll since November 2017, according to NPR. The following year, Democrats would win back the House of Representatives when they picked up 40 seats.

Democrats also have a 33-point advantage with independent voters, the poll found, while only 28 percent of independents prefer Republicans.

Democrats last had this wide a lead in June of 2022, which came as the Supreme Court repealed Roe v Wade, which guaranteed a womans right to an abortion. Democrats had a 7-point lead in the generic ballot. Republicans ultimately won back the House majority in November of that year, but not by as wide a margin as previously expected.

The new polling comes after Democrats in California successfully passed Proposition 50, allowing them to redraw the congressional map to pick up five new congressional seats after Texas gerrymandered its map. On Tuesday, a federal court enjoined Texas from using its newly redrawn congressional map.

I said from the very beginning that Republicans were not going to be able to successfully gerrymander their way into mathematically artificially holding their majority, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries told The Independent. That, in fact, has proven now to be the case.

In addition, President Donald Trumps approval rating ticked down to 39 percent, down 2 points from September, and the poll found 56 percent of Americans disapprove of Trumps job performance.

Trumps approval among white people without a college degree fell by 3 points from September to 48 percent, while 48 percent disapprove. But his approval among Hispanics increased from 36 percent in September to 40 percent, but disapproval among Latinos increased by 2 percentage points to 54 percent.

Trump also saw his approval among white men without degrees go down from 51 percent in September to 48 percent in November.

This comes as Americans increasingly worry about the cost of living as Trump enacts his across-the-board tariffs. The poll showed that 57 percent of Americans say that the president should focus on lowering prices.

Earlier this month, Democrats blew out Republicans in races for governor in New Jersey and Virginia and public service commissioner in Georgia focusing primarily on affordability. But Trump has said that cost has gone down, despite all evidence to the contrary. Last week, Trump slashed tariffs on items including coffee, bananas and beef that he put in place earlier this week.

Trump has leaned heavily into foreign policy during his second tenure in the White House, hosting Vladimir Putin in Alaska and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, and attempting to earn the Nobel Peace Prize for his efforts to end the war between Israel and Hamas in Gaza.

But only seven percent of voters believe that Trump should prioritize bringing an end to the war in Ukraine and six percent believe Trump should prioritize peace between Israel and Gaza.

In addition, Trump has ordered extrajudicial military strikes targeted boats supposedly smuggling drugs from Venezuela. But only 4 percent of voters say Trump should focus on eliminating drug traffic from Latin America.

The poll surveyed 1,443 adults between November 10th and 13th. It had a margin of error of 3.1 percentage points.
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Rep. Nancy Mace, the GOP firebrand from South Carolina, admitted on television that she has no friends.

The third-term congresswoman revealed the personal details during a Tuesday night interview with Newsmax. It came on the heels of a House vote, during which nearly all members voted to force the Department of Justice to release its files on Jeffrey Epstein.

Host Rob Finnerty asked Mace whether its true that Washington, D.C. is ruled by a cabal of elites that help cover up each others crimes.

Im not part of the powerful, Im not part of the elite, the Citadel graduate said. Im an island of one.

I dont get invited to parties, I dont have any friends, she divulged. I have a dog.

Therefore, she said, she wouldnt have any knowledge of a supposed inner ring of untouchable power-brokers.

But nothing surprises me anymore, the congresswoman said. The kind of corruption that I see at all levels of government, the federal, state, and local level, nothing would surprise me if thats whats going on, that there are people out there that are protecting each other because theyre powerful.

She added that the House vote to release the DOJ files on Epstein  a convicted sex offender  was a huge step in holding power to account.

open image in gallery GOP firebrand Nancy Mace told Newsmax that she has no friends in Washington, D.C. and does not go to parties. ( Getty Images )

In response to her remark about not having friends, many commenters on X found the news surprising.

Cant imagine why, wrote one user. Another chimed in, Shes the Ted Cruz of the house.

Mace, who was first elected to Congress in 2020 and is now running for South Carolina governor, has long been a lightning rod for controversy and criticism, often wading deep into the culture wars.

She has drawn significant attention for her aggressive stance on transgender rights. In 2024, she introduced a bill to ban transgender women from using bathrooms on federal property that doesnt correspond with the sex assigned at birth.

During a February congressional hearing, a Democratic colleague criticized her for the language she uses to address transgender people. Tranny tranny tranny, she responded. I don't really care, you want penises in women's bathrooms.

open image in gallery Mace has long been a lightning rod for controversy and criticism ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Mace pictured at Trumps inauguration in the Rotunda of the U.S. Capitol on January 20. ( Getty Images )

In September, following the assassination of Charlie Kirk, Mace introduced a resolution to censure Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Minnesota Democrat, over comments she made about the deceased conservative activist. The measure failed.

We would love to see you deported back to Somalia next, Mace wrote to Omar on X.

Omar shot back: Would love to see you get the help you need next. You belong in rehab, not Congress.

On Monday, the former Waffle House waitress courted more controversy when she posted an AI-generated video of herself dumping excrement from a jet onto a man.

It appeared to be a nod to President Donald Trump, who last month posted an AI clip of himself flying a fighter jet over demonstrators and unleashing diarrhoea on them.
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Nicki Minaj, who once sang, Island girl, Donald Trump want me go home, in what was widely recognised as a takedown of the then-president-elects migrant-deporting rhetoric, has changed her tune.

Nine years later, the Trinidadian-born rapper has stunned fans by apparently coming out as a supporter of the president, most recently by backing him in an address to the United Nations.

Following a string of MAGA-supporting posts on social media, on Tuesday, Minaj threw her support behind Trumps allegations of Christian persecution in Nigeria, saying she wanted to highlight "the deadly threat."

The Trump administrations military actions in the Caribbean are having a profound impact on Minajs home island of Trinidad. Minaj was born in Trinidad, her family moved to The Bronx in New York when she was five years old.

open image in gallery Rap icon Nicki Minaj was just five years old when her family moved from Trinidad to New York City ( AFP via Getty Images )

A series of lethal strikes on alleged drug boats off the coast of Venezuela, which critics have said amount to extrajudicial murder, is being acutely felt in Trinidad, just seven miles away from the Venezuelan coast at its closest point, with Trinidadians being among those killed and with bodies washing up on beaches.

The families of two men from Trinidad have demanded evidence to back up U.S. allegations that those killed were trafficking drugs.

Recent reports suggest the deadly U.S. strikes mean fishing off the coast of Trinidad is now considered to be increasingly dangerous by locals, with some saying the value of their catch has fallen as theyve stayed closer to shore.

Introduced by Trumps ambassador to the United Nations on Tuesday, Mike Waltz, Minaj thanked both him and Trump and said it was an honor to help highlight the deadly threats faced by thousands of Christians in Nigeria.

I stand here as a proud New Yorker with a deep sense of gratitude that we live in a country where we can freely and safely worship God regardless of ones creed, background, or politics, she said.

No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion, like I recently stated on social media. And we dont have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.

open image in gallery Minaj on stage this year. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion, she told the UN this week ( Getty Images for Live Nation )

Her intervention comes after Trump claimed Christianity faces an "existential threat" in Nigeria and reportedly instructed the Pentagon to prepare for potential military action in the West African nation.

However, experts and residents offer a more nuanced perspective, noting that while some attacks have targeted Christians, both Christians and Muslims  the two main religious groups in the country of more than 230 million people  have been victims of attacks by radical Islamists.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian government has dismissed accusations it is failing to safeguard Christians, which make up about 50 per cent of its population, from violence, expressing astonishment at Trumps hint of possible U.S. military action.

We are shocked that President Trump is mulling an invasion of our country, presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga told CNN, following reports that the U.S. leader had directed the Pentagon to prepare for potential action.

Nigerian human rights advocate Bulama Bukarti disputed Trumps view on the situation, saying the US presidents comments reflect a dangerous oversimplification of Nigerias complex security crisis.

open image in gallery Trinidadian-US rapper Nicki Minaj is greeted by US Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz ( AFP via Getty Images )

This week, the U.S. carried out its 20th attack on alleged drug-running boats in the region, bringing the death toll from the strikes that began in September to 80.

The latest attacks, which also included two strikes on boats on Sunday, come as the Trump administration expands the U.S. military's already significant presence in the region. The USS Gerald R. Ford aircraft carrier, the nation's most advanced and largest warship, is expected to arrive in the coming days after traveling from the Mediterranean Sea.

According to critics, the arrival of the warship is the latest sally from the U.S. as it seeks to intimidate Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who faces charges of narcoterrorism in the U.S.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has said the U.S. doesnt recognize Maduro, who was widely accused of stealing last years election, as the leader of Venezuela and has called the government a transshipment organization that openly cooperates with those trafficking drugs toward the U.S.

In response, Maduro said the U.S. government is fabricating a war against him. Venezuelas government this week touted a massive mobilization of troops and civilians to defend against possible U.S. attacks.

The Independent has contacted Nicki Minaj and Trinidad and Tobagos embassy for comment.
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Protesters marched across Raleigh, North Carolina, as federal agents arrived in the state capital days after arresting hundreds in other parts of the state.

No fear, no hate! No ICE in our state! demonstrators shouted Tuesday as they marched with signs in downtown Raleigh in protest of the Trump administrations latest anti-immigration operation.

The citys Mayor Janet Cowell said Tuesday there had been confirmed sightings of Customs and Border Protection agents in Wake County and Durham County. Local outlets also said agents were spotted in the Research Triangle, expanding from their operation in Charlotte, where agents arrested 130 people over the weekend.

If you are a criminal illegal alien in North Carolina, your days of terrorizing Americans are OVER, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem warned in a social media post Tuesday.

Its not immediately clear how many people were arrested Tuesday. The Independent has asked DHS for more information.

Advocacy group Siembra NC reported that federal agents made arrests in Raleigh, Durham, Cary and Charlotte Tuesday.

open image in gallery Protesters marched through downtown Raleigh, North Carolina, as federal immigration agents were spotted nearby ( REUTERS )

Elisha Muhammad, the director of All My Children child care center, said Tuesday that Durham location went into lockdown after seeing federal agents in the parking lot.

The staff alerted parents that we did not want anyone to come and pick up anybody because, as always, our safety is our kids, she said at a news conference. Its really sad that our kids cant go to school freely and learn freely, and love on each other and their friends freely.

open image in gallery A protester in Raleigh holds up a sign that reads: No ICE in North Carolina ( REUTERS )

Nida Allam, chair of the Durham County Board of Commissioners, told NBC News that she witnessed what appeared to be CBP agents putting three men into cars. She told the outlet that she asked the agents whether they had a warrant, to which they replied that they didnt need one because the men were in the country illegally.

Im a naturalized citizen. I was shaking to see Border Patrol ... Its terrorizing all our communities, she told NBC News.

In Charlotte, in the wake of a flurry of arrests over the weekend, students at East Mecklenburg High School staged a walkout in protest of federal immigration operations, WCNC reported.

open image in gallery Hundreds of demonstrators march in protest of federal authorities as they expand their immigration operations after arresting 130 people over the weekend in Charlotte ( REUTERS )

Local and federal officials condemned the federal immigration activity in North Carolina.

Federal immigration officials have the authority to enforce immigration law. But they do not have the right to terrorize our communities, traumatize our children, or trample on the Constitution, Sydney Batch, the state Senate Democratic Leader, said in a statement.

Democratic Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, who represents Durham, denounced the federal authorities tactics, calling them a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights, and a stain on our democracy, she said in a statement. I call upon federal authorities to cease these operations immediately and demand full investigations into every allegation of racial profiling and abuse.

open image in gallery Federal agents walk through a store in Charlotte on Monday as local and federal officials insist they are not needed in the state ( Getty Images )

Governor Josh Stein called on federal agents to target violent criminals, not neighbors walking down the street, going to church, or putting up Christmas decorations. Stop targeting people simply going about their lives because of the color of their skin, as you are doing in Charlotte, the governor wrote on X.

The Department of Homeland Security objected to allegations that federal law enforcement officers are engaging in racial profiling, labeling such claims disgusting, reckless, and categorically FALSE.

Asked why federal agents are targeting his state, Stein told reporters Tuesday: "They haven't sat down and explained to us why they're here, how long they're going to be here, what their purpose of being here is.

The governor added: "We don't know pretty much anything. They're operating in the shadows."

The department has said that it chose North Carolina for its latest immigration operation because of its sanctuary policies, which can limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents.
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The U.S. Senate moved rapidly to pass the legislation to compel the Justice Department to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, just a couple of hours after the House of Representatives almost unanimously passed the legislation.

The Senate did not add amendments, despite overtures from House Speaker Mike Johnson, who had initially opposed the initial vote in the House until President Donald Trump made a last-minute about-face to say he would sign the legislation.

When a bill passes the House for 427-1 and the president said he'll sign it into law, I'm not sure that there's going to be a need for an amendment or desire for an amendment process, Senate Majority Leader John Thune told The Independent after the House held its vote.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) requested unanimous consent for the legislation to deem it passed as soon as it came to the Senate floor, sending it to Trumps desk. Once the House sends the legislative text over, the bill will be considered passed and be sent to Trumps desk. As of Tuesday evening, the House has not sent the bill to the Senate.

The American people have waited long enough. They want to see what's in it, Schumer told The Independent as the House prepared to vote on the legislation earlier Tuesday.

Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) requested unanimous consent for the Epstein legislation to deem it passed as soon as it came to the Senate floor. ( Getty Images )

The vote bookends a protracted process on Capitol Hill to force the Trump administration to release files related to the late convicted sex offender who preyed on scores of girls and young women, many of whom came to Capitol Hill to plead their case to release the files.

But Republicans seemed relieved to move on from the entire episode.

We've got other important things to do, so Im glad its behind us, Sen. John Cornyn (R-Texas) told The Independent.

In July, the Department of Justice and the FBI released a two-page memo saying Epstein did not have a client list and that he likely killed himself when authorities arrested him and placed him in federal custody in 2019.

In turn, Reps. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.) and Ro Khanna (D-Calif.) introduced a discharge petition to get around congressional leadership to force a vote to release the files. Every Democrat signed the petition alongside Republican Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Nancy Mace of South Carolina and Lauren Boebert of Colorado.

But the petition languished for months after Johnson refused to swear in Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-Ariz.) after she won a special election to replace her father. Johnson finally swore in Grijalva last week.

Initially, Trump decried the efforts, calling them in September a Democrat hoax the same day that Epstein survivors came to the Hill to plead their case. That disappointed the victims, some of whom supported Trump.

I voted for him, I regret that, Haley Robson, a survivor, told The Independent. I have offered him several opportunities to, if not, talk to survivors, meet with our attorneys, talk to them, but like I said, just very skeptical of moving forward and what the agenda is.

Trump then changed his mind and said he would sign the legislation. After the passage in the House, he made a meandering, long-winded post saying hed rather see Republicans focus on legislative accomplishments in his administration and move on.

I dont care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, Trump said on Truth Social.

Trump giving his consent to the vote meant that Republicans did not risk crossing the president and receiving the wrath he lobbed at Greene, long one of his most stalwart defenders.

The President rightly called on the House to support the release of the Epstein files. Im glad he did so, Sen. Ted Cruz (R-Texas) told The Independent, all while plugging his podcast where he said he did an episode.

But this does not guarantee that all of the files that survivors want will be released. Trump previously instructed Attorney General Pam Bondi to investigate Epsteins ties to Democratic officials like former president Bill Clinton and his former Treasury secretary Larry Summers, as well as LinkedIn founder and Democratic megadonor Reid Hoffman, which Bondi said she would do.

He's about hiding it, and my apprehension is he continues to do that, Sen. Peter Welch (D-Vt.) told The Independent. That's what all these investigations are that he's directed Attorney General Bondi to do.

Schumer said Democrats will work to make sure Bondi does not withhold documents.

We have many different ways that we are going to do everything we can to see that it comes out, he told The Independent. Pressure works.
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Only a small fraction of Americans believe President Donald Trump knew nothing about Jeffrey Epsteins long record of sexual abuse, according to a new poll.

The survey, conducted by Morning Consult, was released just hours before the House voted on Thursday to force the Department of Justice to release its files on the late sex offender.

The Republican president has maintained he did nothing wrong and that he was unaware of Epsteins criminal conduct, often claiming he severed ties with him years ago. A White House spokesperson previously told The Independent that the newly released emails prove literally nothing.

In the poll, just 15 percent of respondents said Trump did not know about the abuse perpetrated by Epstein  who died while awaiting trial on child sex trafficking charges in 2019.

Meanwhile, 60 percent said Trump knew about the abuse, including 38 percent who said the former real estate tycoon participated in the criminal behavior.

open image in gallery The vast majority of poll respondents said they believe Trump was aware of Epsteins criminal behavior. ( Getty )

The results come one week after a House committee released a trove of 20,000 documents obtained from Epsteins estate, including emails in which Epstein said Trump knew about the girls and spent hours with a victim.

Views among respondents were sharply divided along partisan lines. The overwhelming majority of Democrats, 80 percent, said Trump was aware of Epsteins misdeeds, while 60 percent of independents and 42 percent of Republicans said the same.

The survey was conducted November 14-16 with 2,201 registered voters, and it has a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Thursdays House vote now makes it increasingly likely that the Justice Department will be compelled to release all its files on the pedophile financier.

Over the weekend, Trump called for Republicans to support the measure, reversing his longstanding opposition. We have nothing to hide, he wrote on Truth Social. And its time to move on from this Democrat Hoax.

open image in gallery On Thursday, the House of Representatives voted in favor of forcing the Justice Department to release its files on Epstein ( Getty )

Nearly all 435 members of the House voted in favor of the bill mandating that the DOJ files be made public, with one Republican, Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, casting the sole vote in opposition. Five other members abstained.

The vote was triggered by a House discharge petition which, last week, garnered enough signatures to require a full floor vote.

In response to the bill passing, dozens of House members quickly released statements on social media.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a Georgia Republican who has become a vocal critic of Trump, called the outcome a major victory for the survivors whove waited decades for the truth.

I voted YES to release the Epstein files, Rep. Ilhan Omar, a Minnesota Democrat, wrote on X. Survivors of Epsteins abuseand all survivors of abuse and sex traffickingdeserve justice. Today is an important step in getting the truth and holding some of the most powerful institutions and people accountable.

Speaker Mike Johnson, whose hand was forced in bringing the bill to a vote, framed the vote as a partisan measure.

Democrats oversaw the Epstein files for FOUR YEARS, Johnson wrote on X. They DIDNT LIFT A FINGER for the victims. So why now? Because Democrats dont have a platform or a principle left to defend  so theyve defaulted to the one thing they know how to do: attack President Trump.

Shortly after the vote, Senate Majority Leader John Thune told reporters that he believes the bill will move fairly quickly through the Senate.

Trump previously said he will sign the legislation into law it if it lands on his desk.
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Donald Trump told a female reporter to be Quiet, Piggy while she asked him a question about the Epstein files onboard Air Force One.

The commander-in-chief leaned forward to deliver the sinister remark, which he made in a cartoonish voice while wagging his finger.

The incident has gone viral, with users divided on what he actually said. It unfolded on Friday while Trump was jetting back to Washington, D.C.

Although the reporters identity remains unknown, The DailyTelegraph has reported that she worked for the media giant Bloomberg.

Before making his piggy remark, Trump told the reporter that he had a very bad relationship with Jeffrey Epstein before swiftly moving on to another question.

open image in gallery Trump shouted at a reporter, telling her to be "quiet, piggy" after she asked him a question about the Epstein files ( YouTube/@The White House )

If theres nothing incriminating in the files, sir, why not the reporter began before Trump snapped.

Quiet! Quiet, piggy, he said in a sing-song voice, while jabbing his finger towards the reporter.

He then answered a question from another journalist about rising tensions with Venezuela.

I sort of made up my mind, yeah, he said, in an ominous comment about his plans for the South American country. I cant tell you what it would be, but I certainly have

Trump has been slammed for his comments, with one X user commenting, this is the president of the United States who himself is overweight calling another person piggy. That user attached a GIF of Muppet icon Miss Piggy with their post.

Just imagine ANY OTHER President saying that to a female journalist in a gaggle, another wrote.

open image in gallery Pressure to release the Epstein files has continued to build as GOP lawmakers begin to break with their leader ( Adam Gray/Getty Images )

The surreal exchange comes as Trumps administration battles to stay ahead of the Epstein scandal. The House of Representatives is poised to vote on a bill forcing the release of the files related to the convicted sex offender on Tuesday.

However, even if the House passes the bill, the Republican-controlled Senate will need to vote on whether to release the files.

The scandal has shattered the presidents formerly rock-solid MAGA base, with former loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene breaking with Trump in a shocking move.

In response, Trump has branded her a traitor and says that the files are a Democrat hoax. However, he surprised many on Capitol Hill when he suddenly reversed his long-held policy of ignoring the files and ordered House Republicans to vote in favor of their release.

He has claimed that the Republicans have nothing to hide, despite previously branding Greene, who says she will vote for the files release, as wacky and a ranting Lunatic. He also said that all she does is COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN, COMPLAIN.

open image in gallery Former Trump loyalist Marjorie Taylor Greene has been one of the most high-profile Republicans to criticize the presidents slow response to tensions surrounding the files ( AFP/Getty )

So far, the House Oversight Committee has released a slew of emails from the files, several of which mention Trump.

One email claims that Trump spent hours at Epsteins house with a sex trafficking victim, while another says that he knew about the girls.

Trump has long denied any wrongdoing in relation to the Epstein case, and there has been no evidence to suggest wrongdoing on his part.

The Independent has contacted the White House for comment.
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The United States will elevate Saudi Arabia to major non-NATO ally status, granting the oil-rich autocracy preferred access to military and economic privileges and deeper ties with the American military-industrial complex.

President Donald Trump announced the countrys new status at a black tie dinner to honor Saudi Arabias prime minister and de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, late Tuesday.

I'm pleased to announce that we're taking our military cooperation to even greater heights by formally designating Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, which is something that is very important to them, Trump said.

He added that he had kept the move a secret until the dinner as a surprise for the crown prince, who has spent years cultivating deep ties with Trumps family and business interests dating back to the presidents first term in the White House.

Turning to bin Salman, who is often referred to by his initials, MBS, Trump called the Saudi kingdoms new status another point you won today in addition to what he described as a historic strategic defense agreement the two leaders had signed earlier in the day.

open image in gallery Trump announced the countrys new status at a black tie dinner to honor Saudi Arabias prime minister and de facto ruler, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ( REUTERS )

According to the U.S. State Department, countries with Major Non-NATO Ally status can receive certain benefits in the areas of defense trade and security cooperation, including eligibility for loans of material, supplies, or equipment for cooperative research, development, testing, or evaluation purposes and designation as a location for American military stockpiles.

The new designation means Saudi Arabia can also purchase U.S.-made depleted uranium ammunition, receive priority for delivery of surplus equipment  including warplanes and ships  and Saudi contractors will be permitted to bid on contracts to repair and maintain American military equipment.

Saudi Arabia will be the tenth country to formally receive major non-NATO ally designation, joining Argentina, Australia, Bahrain, Brazil, Colombia, Egypt, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Morocco, New Zealand, Pakistan, the Philippines, Qatar, South Korea, Thailand, and Tunisia.

Taiwan is also treated as a major non-NATO ally under American law, but has not been formally designated as one because of Americas longstanding one China policy.

Trumps announcement represents a new high point in relations between Washington and Riyadh after years of unease following the 2018 murder of Washington Post columnist Jamal Kashoggi  a U.S. permanent resident who was a fierce critic of the Saudi monarchy  by Saudi security agents at the countrys consulate in Istanbul, Turkey.

open image in gallery Jamal Khashoggi and Hanan Elatr Khashoggi ( Hanan Elatr Khashoggi )

An assessment by the U.S. Intelligence Community that was declassified in 2021 found that MBS had approved the operation to either capture or kill the journalist because he viewed Khashoggi as a threat to the Kingdom and broadly supported using violent measures if necessary to silence him, though the Saudi government has denied the allegations.

Although Trumps successor turned predecessor, former president Joe Biden, had vowed to make the Saudi leader a pariah during his 2020 presidential campaign, geopolitical realities led to Biden ending his efforts to isolate the crown prince, and since returning to office, Trump has enthusiastically embraced both MBS and the country he leads.

The president said he and bin Salman were making the partnership between their respective nations closer and stronger than ever before as he praised him as having helped the kingdom make extraordinary strides as it has grown into an economic engine and really a modern-day miracle.

We've gotten to know each other well over the years, and he has become a true partner for peace and prosperity, for our countries and for the world and for peace in the Middle East, he said.
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President Donald Trump on Wednesday accused Georgetown Universitys law school of canceling graduation ceremonies five years ago as a way to avoid highlighting his daughter Tiffanys academic success and not because it was the height of the Covid-19 pandemic.

Trump was in the middle of a rambling, off-script appearance at a Saudi-U.S. investment forum at the Kennedy Center in Washington when he began calling out to audience members, including his youngest daughter.

He noted that Tiffany was present with her husband, Michael Boulos, and claimed she had been a great student at Georgetown University Law Center, where she had been a member of the Class of 2020.

She finished really right at the top and we were proud of you. And she was so proud, and her graduation got canceled because of Covid  but I say if her name was something else, they probably wouldnt of canceled it, Trump said.

They didnt like that she did so well in school. They werent happy about it, he continued. Thats when he claimed that Georgetown had canceled the graduation ceremony because Tiffany had been a great student.

President Donald Trump, Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang (over Trumps right shoulder) at U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum Wednesday. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein ( REUTERS )

Although Tiffany Trump graduated from the Georgetown University Law School with a Juris Doctor degree that year, a review of the schools online records by The Independent found that she did not earn cum laude honors with her degree, nor was she listed as being part of her class Order of the Coif honorees  a legal educational honor afforded to the top 10 percent of law school classes.

The presidents youngest daughter was also not named on a roster of students who were part of the schools various law reviews and legal journals.

Georgetown was one of the countless American universities and secondary schools that moved to virtual instruction at the outset of the Covid-19 pandemic in March 2020 to avoid the risk of students gathering in large groups and spreading the then-novel coronavirus, for which no treatment or vaccine would be available until much later in the year.

According to the schools student newspaper, The Georgetown Voice, the class of 2020 graduated virtually in a series of online ceremonies starting on May 13, 2020 and ending on May 17, 2020.

The law schools graduation ceremony took place on May 16 as part of what the student newspaper called Conferral of Degrees in Course unto graduates of all Main Campus, Medical, and Law Center programs.

At the time, university president John DeGioia said it was a source of consolation and inspiration that the students had accepted responsibility for caring for everyone around you and pledged to hold an in-person ceremony to honor Class of 2020 graduates at a later date.
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The White House is planning to use the Epstein files against Democrats after they, in addition to several Republicans, successfully pressured lawmakers to vote to compel the Justice Department to release the remainder of the files against President Donald Trumps wishes.

After both chambers of Congress agreed to send the Epstein Files Transparency Act to Trumps desk, two unnamed White House officials indicated to Politico that they plan to draw attention to Democrats who communicated with or were associated with Epstein.

Democrats only started talking about the Epstein files once they thought they could use it to score political points against President Trump, an unnamed White House official told Politico. That will prove to be a mistake for them.

For months, Democrats have been using Trumps refusal to release the documents about the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein to speculate that the president is hiding something or covering for someone. He has denied any wrongdoing and any knowledge of the late financiers crimes.

By consistently drawing attention to the matter, Trump has been unable to escape guilty-by-association criticisms and eventually relented  giving House Republicans his blessing to vote to force the release of documents this week.

open image in gallery Rep Ro Khanna (center left) was among the Democrats aggressively pushing for Congress to release the Epstein files ( AFP/Getty )

Now, the White House is gearing up to highlight high-profile Democrats who knew Epstein, including former President Bill Clinton, who was a friend of Epsteins but has strongly denied having knowledge of Epsteins alleged child sex-trafficking crimes.

The Democrats are going to come to regret this, another unnamed White House official told the news outlet. Lets start with Stacey Plaskett. You think were not going to make a scene of this?

Plaskett, a non-voting delegate from the U.S. Virgin Islands, texted with Epstein during a February 2019 House Oversight Committee hearing, and Epstein apparently advised her about which questions to ask the witness, former Trump attorney Michael Cohen. That was revealed last week after the House released more than 20,000 pages of documents containing Epsteins emails.

Plaskett confirmed she texted with Epstein, but said in a statement she had condemned his cimes, and that she received messages from staff, constituents and the public at large offering advice, support and in some cases partisan vitriol, including from Epstein.

Epsteins island home, Little Saint James, is in the U.S. Virgin Islands meaning he was a constituent of Plasketts.

The delegate also defended herself, saying she had not engaged in any wrongdoing and that it was unknown at the time that Epstein was under federal investigation.

open image in gallery Public polling indicates most people want the president to release the Epstein files and the White Houses refusal was poorly received ( AFP/Getty )

White House Spokesperson Abigail Jackson raised questions about Plaskett and other Democrats in a statement and said Americans deserve an answer.

Time for the media to start asking the real questions: why was Democrat Stacey Plaskett live texting Epstein in 2019 during a congressional hearing after he was a convicted sex offender and why did she accept thousands of dollars from him? Jackson said.

Jackson added: Why was Hakeem Jeffries soliciting donations from Epstein after he was a convicted sex offender? Why did President Bill Clinton travel on Epsteins plane 26 times? And why did one of Epsteins victims write that she saw Clinton on Epsteins island with two young women?

The White Houses attempts to redirect attention from Trumps ties to Epstein come after the president asked the Justice Department to specifically investigate the late convicted sex offenders ties to prominent Democrats and financial institutions.

That includes Clinton, Larry Summers, Reid Hoffman and J.P. Morgan Chase.

Attorney General Pam Bondi quickly agreed to Trumps request, directing the U.S. Attorney in charge of the Southern District of New York to investigate Epsteins involvement with the named entities.
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A 75-year-old U.S. Marine Corps veteran fatally shot himself in the chest while a patient at a Veterans Affairs hospital, after warning psychiatrists and social workers multiple times that he had access to a gun and was considering suicide, according to a $37.5 million wrongful death lawsuit filed by the mans grieving family.

In the suit, which was filed Tuesday in Chicago federal court and reviewed by The Independent, Roy Fred Giddens, Jr.s son Christopher  the executor of his fathers estate  blames the devastating turn of events on the physicians, social workers, and nursing staff tasked with his care.

Two New Years Eves ago, Giddens, on his third stay in five months at Chicagos Jesse Brown VA Medical Center after a stroke and at least one heart attack, expressed suicidal ideations overnight to an unidentified registered nurse, the familys complaint contends. That same day, a VA doctor met with Giddens, who told him that he sometimes felt like shooting himself because of his ongoing illness, it says.

On December 31, 2023, while a resident and under the care and treatment of the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, Roy shot himself in the chest with a firearm, the complaint states. On December 31, 2023, Roy died as a result of the self-inflicted gunshot.

Attorney Daniel Goldfaden, who is representing Giddenss three sons and two daughters, called the situation absolutely tragic.

open image in gallery Roy Fred Giddens, Jr., a Vietnam vet living in Chicago, died by suicide in his room at a VA hospital after warning medical staff for months that he owned a gun and wanted to die. ( Provided; Getty Images )

It did not need to happen, Goldfaden told The Independent. It was completely avoidable.

Giddens was a Vietnam vet who returned to the U.S. with severe post-traumatic stress disorder that gave him nightmares and flashbacks, according to Goldfaden.

He didnt go to the VA to harm himself, he went to get medical care, Goldfaden continued. They knew for months he had been feeling this way, they documented those warnings, he had previously told his providers that he had a gun, and told them he had no desire to live. To have nothing done in response is completely unfathomable to me.

The family was very close, and son Christopher, who had visited his dad in the hospital the day before he died, was completely caught off guard by it, according to Goldfaden. He said Christophers life has been basically turned upside-down, and that he continues to deeply grieve his father.

The fact that hes had to endure this completely preventable tragedy makes it more difficult for him to come to terms with this and process it all, Goldfaden said. ... Our veterans deserve better. This issue is prevalent, and we have a responsibility, and owe it to veterans across the spectrum, to help them get the care they need and deserve.

In 2022, the most recent year for which data is available, unadjusted suicide rates were highest among veterans between the ages of 18 and 34-years-old, followed by those aged 35 to 54. Veterans 75 and older had the lowest suicide rate overall, according to VA data.

A VA spokesperson said in an email Wednesday that the department doesnt typically comment on pending litigation.

open image in gallery Giddens, Jr. began a career driving a Chicago cab upon his return from Vietnam. His family is suing the government after Giddens fatally shot himself in his room at a VA hospital after allegedly expressing suicidal thoughts for months. ( Getty Images )

Giddens, who became a cab driver upon his return from Vietnam, had been in and out of VA hospitals for several years, with a history of cardiac issues, according to a Chicago Sun-Times profile published two weeks after his death.

The complaint against the U.S. government lays out a timeline beginning on August 16, 2023, when Giddens went to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center to get treated.

During the admission process, a psychiatrist met with Giddens, noting that after a hospitalization in May, Giddens had expressed suicidal thoughts [about] using a gun to shoot himself in his head, and that he had access to a locked firearm in his apartment, the complaint states.

On December 1, 2023, Giddens was again admitted to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, according to the complaint. Three days later, after Giddens claimed he was continuing to have suicidal ideations, it says a VA psychiatrist recommended a 1:1 sitter to watch him.

Giddens was discharged, but returned on December 18, 2023, the complaint goes on. Upon admission, Giddens told a VA psychiatrist that he had thoughts of shooting himself in the chest, according to the complaint. On December 24, however, Giddens was sent home, the complaint says.

Five days later, on December 29, 2023, Giddens was re-admitted to the Jesse Brown VA Medical Center, thinking he was having another heart attack, his brother Donald told the Sun-Times last year.

He called me the next day to tell me that he had a conversation with the doctor, and the doctor had given him some really bad news, Donald said. He told me at that point that he really didnt feel that he was going to make it. He had this sense of doom and gloom, and I assured him that, upon discharge, we would get another opinion.

open image in gallery Giddens, Jr. had acute PTSD stemming from his military service in Vietnam, according to his attorney. After Giddens died by suicide in his room at a VA hospital, his family is suing the government for allowing it to happen ( AFP via Getty Images )

On December 30, 2023, a VA social worker conducted an assessment on Giddens, and on December 31, a doctor noted that Giddens had spoken to an overnight nurse about wanting to take his own life, the familys complaint states. It says a second VA doctor who met with Giddens also wrote that his ongoing illness was making him suicidal.

That evening, a nurse treating another patient in Giddenss room heard a gunshot, according to a police report cited by the Sun-Times. She turned and saw Giddens sitting in a chair, with a gun in his hand and a single gunshot wound to the chest, the report said. As Giddens put the gun down on a hospital tray, he said he no longer wanted to live, the report stated. Giddens was rushed to a different hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 9:09 p.m., according to the Sun-Times.

Goldfaden said he had no idea how Giddens managed to sneak the gun into the hospital, and told The Independent he considers the circumstances of the case to be egregious.

He had previously told his providers that he had a gun, told them he had no desire to live, then to again complain of these suicidal thoughts the morning before he took his own life and to have nothing done in response? I was shocked, Goldfaden said.

VA hospital staff failed to apply the knowledge, skill, and care ordinarily used by a reasonably careful physician, licensed social worker, nurse and/or other healthcare professionals when a patient speaks about dying by suicide, according to the familys complaint.

Among other things, it lists each step at which a mental health intervention should have taken place, claims Giddens should have been transferred to a psychiatric unit upon expressing ongoing suicidal ideation, and says the VA [c]arelessly and negligently allowed Roy to be left unsupervised on the day he died. The complaint alleges hospital workers never coordinated consistent outpatient treatment for Giddens upon his past discharges, didnt get the gun removed from Giddens home after he informed them he owned one, and neglected to check Giddens for a weapon upon his final admission to the facility.

Giddens shot himself and died a direct and proximate result of the[se] failures of care and the negligent acts, the complaint states.

All of Roys next of kin suffered injuries as a result of his death, including the loss of companionship, society, grief and sorrow, it concludes.

The Giddenses are seeking $37.5 million on two causes of action: $12.5 million for common law negligence, and $25 million for wrongful death.

I think the family wants to prevent this from happening in the future, Goldfaden told The Independent, They want some answers as to how it happened, and some accountability.

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI), email jo@samaritans.org, or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you
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South Australias education minister has sought an urgent nationwide inquiry into the asbestos-laced sand crisis that has led to the closure of almost 450 schools across the country.

Blair Boyer said that he wanted to know how coloured play sand contaminated with asbestos, a toxin, was imported into Australia.

South Australia on Tuesday added hundreds of schools across the state to the list of sites affected by the kinetic sand recall.

The national recall was issued last week by the Australian Competition & Consumer Commission after tests found traces of asbestos in multiple coloured sand products.

I want to know how this stuff got through our borders, how it ended up on the shelves of major retailers like Kmart and Target, and then in schools, preschools and thousands of households," Mr Boyer said on Wednesday.

He had written to the federal government for an inquiry into the origin of the product, the minister said.

What are the checks that occur with products like this?" he asked. Especially now that we know in cases of a product that was made and marketed towards kids, what checks occur with a product like that?"

open image in gallery Accredited asbestos removalists attend to Black Mountain School in Canberra on 17 November 2025 ( REUTERS )

The competition commission told ABC News that some of the coloured sand products laced with asbestos had been traced to a quarry in China. Deputy chair Catriona Lowe could not confirm which company or operation in China was responsible for exporting the sand, but said an investigation was ongoing.

We are continuing to obtain information on a daily basis, but the focus has been in making sure that the public has got the information that they need," she said.

open image in gallery Asbestos warning tape at Black Mountain School in Canberra ( REUTERS )

The regulator first issued a voluntary recall for coloured sand supplied by Educational Colours and Officeworks over concerns about asbestos contamination. Subsequently, Kmart and Target withdrew similar products from sale.

On its website, Educational Colours Pty Ltd, which issued the recall, said: Independent laboratory testing of Rainbow Sand and Coloured Sand products has detected traces of naturally occurring tremolite asbestos in some samples. Experts have advised that the safety risk is negligible, but the recall has been initiated as a precautionary measure.

Officeworks said the asbestos was detected when it conducted analytical testing on sand supplies, which identified the presence of the asbestos fibres, according to ABC News.

Tests have detected traces of two forms of asbestos  tremolite and chrysotile  in various coloured sand products, which more than 1,000 schools and early learning centres nationwide have reported using in classroom activities.

Asbestos, once widely used in building materials, is a group of naturally occurring minerals made up of tiny, heat-resistant fibres. They can release toxic microscopic fibres into the air when distributed and lodge into the lungs if inhaled. Prolonged exposure is linked to health issues like asbestosis, lung cancer and mesothelioma.

In case of the contaminated sand found in schools, though, the commission noted that there was a low risk of the asbestos becoming airborne or fine enough for inhalation.
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Eight people from the drug trafficking underworld have been arrested in connection with a suspected plot to assassinate chief prosecutor in Brussels, Belgian authorities have said.

The arrests were made on Tuesday following the raid of 18 premises in the nearby city of Leuven, according to the Belgian state prosecutor's department.

The raids took place after a four-month investigation following intelligence about a plot to kill Julien Moinil, who took up the post as the capitals chief prosecutor in January this year.

A statement from the department said: "In July 2025, the state prosecutor's office was informed by the Brussels police of a plot aiming to kill the Brussels chief prosecutor.

The main suspects seem to have a criminal record linked to organised drugs trafficking, and may be active within the Albanian criminal mafia.

Brussels has been plagued by violence linked to drug gangs in recent years, and officials have said more than 100 of Europe's most dangerous criminal networks operate in Belgium.

According to Euronews, 78 shootings had been recorded in 2025 as of the end of October, with at least 20 reported in the summer alone.

In February this year, authorities had to shut several Brussels metro stations as they hunted two suspects following a shooting linked to drug dealers.

Federal Prosecutor Ann Fransen said in a statement seen by Euronews: "This investigation once again demonstrates the absolute necessity of better protecting police officers and magistrates who fight organised crime on a daily basis and who, as a result, become targets of these organisations.

In a press conference in the summer, Mr Moinil said: Anyone, every Brussels resident and every citizen, can be hit by a stray bullet.

Belgiums port in Antwerp, 35 miles (55 kilometers) to the north, has increasingly been a centre for European imports of cocaine.
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Chancellor Friedrich Merz's spokesperson denied Wednesday that the German leader meant to denigrate Brazil after visiting the city hosting the U.N. climate summit, defending his stance toward the country following remarks that drew sharp criticism from officials there.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Belem's mayor, the governor of Para state and several lawmakers pushed back against comments Merz made last week following a Nov. 7 visit to Belem. Merz appeared to be trying to put into perspective complaints about the current situation in prosperous Germany, whose economy is struggling to generate growth, in a speech to a trade conference in Berlin.

We live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Last week I asked some journalists who were with me in Brazil: Which of you would like to stay here? No one raised their hand, Merz said. They were all happy that, above all, we returned from this place to Germany in the night from Friday to Saturday.

On Wednesday, Merz spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said that it is far from the chancellor to comment in a derogatory way about Brazil. He added at a regular government news conference that Merz had used his short visit to Brazil very intensively to deepen the excellent relations Germany has with Brazil.

Kornelius said that Merz's impression of his trip had been very positive and there is no doubt that Brazil is our most important partner geostrategically and economically in South America."

The disputed remark essentially concerned the wish of the delegation to return home after a very tiring night flight and a long day in Belem, he said. When the chancellor says that we live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, that doesn't mean other countries aren't also very beautiful.

Asked whether Merz would apologize or whether he saw any damage to relations, Kornelius replied: No, twice.
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Lithuanias government has announced the reopening of two border crossings with Belarus, weeks after their closure due to disruptions at Vilnius airport caused by cigarette-smuggling balloons.

The crossings had been shut in late October for a month, with officials in Vilnius viewing the balloon incidents as a deliberate act by Russia-allied Belarus.

The Medininkai and Salcininkai crossings are set to reopen on Thursday. This follows neighbouring Polands decision to reopen two of its own border points with Belarus earlier this week.

The decision is expected to ease the return of Lithuanian trucks that were stranded in Belarus. Authorities in Minsk refused to open a corridor exclusively to evacuate the trucks, demanding that Lithuania reopen the border fully. Delegations of the countries' customs officials met on Tuesday for technical negotiations.

A map of Medininkai:

Last week, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said up to 1,200 vehicles were stranded in his country and threatened to seize them if Lithuania failed to reopen the border. He has denounced the border closure as a mad scam and part of a hybrid war against his country.

Lithuania is a NATO and European Union member on the Western military alliances eastern flank, and also borders Russias Kaliningrad exclave.

open image in gallery Lithuania Airport Balloons

Lithuania warned that the border could be shut again if balloons and drones reappear.

If the situation gets worse again, we reserve the right to close the borders at any time, Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene said ahead of Wednesday's decision, adding that it was being taken after several relatively quiet weeks without major airspace violations and flight disruptions.

On Wednesday Poland's foreign minister said he will order the closure of the last Russian consulate still operating in the country after authorities said two Ukrainian citizens working for Moscow are suspected of blowing up a railway line in Poland.

Radek Sikorski said he had repeatedly warned Russia that its diplomatic and consular presence would be reduced further if it did not cease hostile actions against Poland, Polish news agency PAP reported.

"In connection with this, though it will not be our full response, I have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of the last Russian consulate in Gdansk," he said.

He added that Russia would be formally notified within hours.

"This time it was an act of not only subversion, as happened before, but an act of state terror, as its clear intention was to cause human casualties," Mr Sikorski said. The closure would leave Russia with only its embassy in Warsaw.

In response, Moscow would "reduce Poland's diplomatic and consular presence in Russia", the state news agency RIA Novosti cited Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying.

open image in gallery Investigators examine the railways damaged in an explosion on the rail line in Mika, next to Garwolin, central Poland on November 17, 2025, after the line presumably was targeted in a sabotage act. ( AFP via Getty Images )

Poland's prime minister Donald Tusk has described the weekend explosion on a line linking Poland's capital, Warsaw, to the border with Ukraine as an "unprecedented act of sabotage".

The blast damaged tracks near Mika, about 60 miles (100km) south-east of Warsaw. No-one was hurt.

In a separate weekend incident, power lines were destroyed in the area of Pulawy, about 30 miles (50km) from Lublin in eastern Poland.

Asked about Mr Sikorski's comments, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia's "relations with Poland have deteriorated completely".

"This is probably a manifestation of this degradation, of the desire of the Polish authorities to reduce to zero any possibility of consular or diplomatic ties. In this case, one can only express regret," Mr Peskov told reporters.

On Tuesday, Mr Tusk told the Polish parliament that the two suspects had been collaborating with the Russian secret services for a long time.

He said their identities were known but could not be revealed to the public because of the ongoing investigation, and that the pair had already left Poland, crossing into Belarus.
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Russia stands accused of sabotage on Polands railways. The Kremlin attacked a gas-loaded tanker on the Romania border, forcing the evacuation of several villages in the country. Moscow has repeatedly flown drones into European airspace, and jets over Estonia.

These, plus waves of sabotage, cyber attacks, and social media propaganda, are acts of war. But they are all part of a hybrid war. And this malevolent blend allows Vladimir Putin to punch well above his weight.

Russia is the prime suspect in Mondays bombing of the Warsaw to Lublin railway line, a main artery from Poland to Ukraine.

Polands security ministry said that everything points to Russian sabotage, after the blast on the railway and another attack in which the rails on the same route were cut.

open image in gallery This image, shot from the Romanian side of the border on the Danube River, shows a cargo ship loaded with liquified petroleum gas engulfed by flames following Russian strikes on Ukrainian port infrastructure in Izmail, Ukraine ( ISU Tulcea )

Polish prime minister Donald Tusk described the latest incident as an unprecedented act, and pinned the blame on two Ukrainians collaborating with Russia who are now believed to have fled to Belarus.

Tusk is angry  but these attacks are not unprecedented. And he knows better than any European leader what Russia is up to, after Poland was penetrated by at least 23 Russian drones in September.

These weapons were not armed. But they fly only in one direction. They are not aircraft that probe defences and then fly home  they are, in effect, kinetic bombs.

Like the waves of arson attacks on aircraft and warehouses  even a plot against a Russian-born London restaurateur  the Polish operations could have killed people. They were, by any definition, acts not just of sabotage but of terror.

This week, Russia carried out a drone assault on a Turkish-flagged liquid natural gas carrier just inside Ukrainian waters, which has hit Romania hard. Footage of flames billowing from the ship went around the world.

open image in gallery The incidents in Poland were, by any definition, acts not just of sabotage but of terror ( AP )

But Nato is coy about all this.

Britain has designated Palestine Action as a terrorist organisation, and arrested hundreds of people for protesting against the designation, which was provoked by the movements non-violent paint attacks on Ministry of Defence property.

British agents working for Russia have not been similarly charged or accused of terrorism. But recent plots uncovered include an arson attack against a Ukrainian business in Britain, for which five men were convicted, and a plan to kidnap the owner of Mayfairs Hide restaurant and burn it down.

According to a report from the Centre for International and Strategic Studies, as of March this year, there had been at least 70 known acts of sabotage attributed to Russia across Europe since Putins full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Other sources have the number higher.

Roughly 27 per cent of the attacks were against transportation targets (such as trains, vehicles, and airplanes), another 27 per cent were against government targets (such as military bases and officials), 21 per cent were against critical infrastructure targets (such as pipelines, undersea fiber-optic cables, and the electricity grid), and 21 per cent were against industry (such as defence companies), the report said.

It went on to point out that many of these targets had links to Western aid to Ukraine. The most common tactic involved explosives and incendiaries, but there were also more acts of violence involving clubs and knives, sea anchors to tear up fibreoptic cables, and the weaponisation of illegal immigrants.

open image in gallery Image by the Swedish Air Force shows a Russian MiG-31 fighter jet flying above the Baltic Sea after violating Estonian air space in September ( Swedish Air Force )

Tom Tugendhat, the former security minister, said the attack on the gas tanker on Romanias border was tantamount to Russia attacking Nato. Putin is expanding his Ukrainian war to dissuade us from defending European freedom, he warned.

Russias violence across Europe isnt just through war, but the sponsorship of sabotage and murder. It is now a state sponsor of terrorism, he told The Independent.

France, meanwhile, has begun talks with Ukraine to supply 100 Rafale fighter jets  but a deal is unlikely to be struck before next year.

Europe and the UK have stepped up military support for Ukraine, to offset Donald Trumps decision to stop all aid to the country. But the latest Russian attacks inside Poland  a European Union nation thats also a fast-growing power in Nato, and, like Romania, is a near-frontline state with Russia  are yet more signs that Europes pushback may need to get physical.
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Poland has detained several people linked with an explosion on a railway track used to transport weapons to Ukraine, Polish authorities have said.

An explosion damaged a railway track near Mika village in Poland on Sunday, which prime minister Donald Tusk described as an unprecedented act of sabotage.

The damaged section of track is part of a crucial route used for delivering aid and weapons to Ukraine, located approximately 80 miles from the Polish-Ukrainian border.

Calling the explosion a terrorist attack, Jacek Dobrzynski, the spokesperson for Polands security services minister, said on Wednesday: The Polish [security] services have much more information. They are on the trail of the principals; they are on the trail of the perpetrators.

I confirm that, indeed, the first arrests are now taking place. The people involved are being detained by the Internal Security Agency and by the police, and at this stage, I cannot provide you with more details.

open image in gallery Polish PM Donald Tusk said the incident appeared to be an act of sabotage, with the perpetrators still at large ( AP )

Authorities previously said two Ukrainian nationals collaborating with Russian intelligence were responsible for the explosion.

On Monday, Polands security services minister, Tomasz Siemoniak, said the attack marked a new stage of threatening the railway infrastructure.

A train driver reported damage on the railway line on Sunday, local police said. The damaged stretch was some 80 miles from the Polish-Ukrainian border.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Mr Siemoniak said: We are dealing with the [intelligence] services of a foreign state, and not a gang of scrap-metal thieves.

Mr Tusk vowed to catch those responsible for an incident he said could have ended in tragedy. Two passengers and several staff were on the train, but no injuries were reported, officials said.

The blast on the Warsaw-Lublin line follows a wave of arson, sabotage and cyber attacks that have hit Poland and other European countries since the start of Russias war against Ukraine.

Warsaw has in the past held Russia responsible, saying that Poland has become one of Moscows biggest targets due to its role as a hub for aid to Kyiv. Russia has repeatedly denied being responsible for acts of sabotage.

Mr Tusk insisted on Monday that just like in previous cases of this kind, we will catch the perpetrators, regardless of who their backers are. In a video address, he added that the route was used to deliver weapons to Ukraine.

He called the incident an unprecedented act of sabotage aimed at the security of the Polish state and its citizens, and gave assurances that an investigation was underway.

open image in gallery A train driver reported the explosion on the tracks on a route used to deliver weapons to Ukraine ( AP )

Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky said there is a Russian trace behind all of this.

Our information is the same: all the facts indicate that there is, he said.

He added that Ukraine faced similar attempted sabotage acts on a daily basis, and put in place proper [measures] to counteract against such activities.

Ukraine is ready to work with Poland at various levels and to share all information, he said, adding that the two countries will also set up a Ukrainian-Polish group that will work to prevent similar situations from the Russian side in the future.

Polish defence minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said the military was inspecting a 120km (75-mile) stretch of track leading to the Ukrainian border.

Warsaw said in October that Poland and Romania had detained eight people suspected of planning sabotage on behalf of Russia.

Lublin police also reported on Sunday evening that a passenger train carrying 475 passengers had suddenly stopped on a route from Swinoujscie to Rzeszow. Windows in one of the carriages were reportedly broken, most likely due to a damaged traction line, they said.

The cause was not immediately clear. Nobody was injured in the incident.
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Two Ukrainian nationals collaborating with Russian intelligence were responsible for an explosion on a railway track used to transport weapons to Ukraine, Polish authorities have said.

Polands prime minister Donald Tusk said the two people involved in the attack had intended to cause a catastrophe on the railway. The individuals have now fled Poland for Belarus, he said.

It comes hours after a Polish security official told the Associated Press that authorities are investigating whether the blast on Sunday on the line linking Warsaw to southeastern Poland is connected to Russia, Belarus or their proxies.

On Monday, Polands security services minister, Tomasz Siemoniak, said the attack on a section of the track near Mika village marked a new stage of threatening the railway infrastructure.

Mr Tusk said the track was crucially important for delivering aid to Ukraine and branded the attack an act of sabotage.

A train driver reported damage on the railway line on Sunday, local police said. The damaged stretch was some 80 miles from the Polish-Ukrainian border.

Speaking to reporters on Monday, Mr Siemoniak said: We are dealing with the [intelligence] services of a foreign state, and not a gang of scrap-metal thieves.

open image in gallery Polish PM Donald Tusk said the incident appeared to be an act of sabotage, with the perpetrators still at large ( AP )

Mr Tusk vowed to catch those responsible for an incident he said could have ended in tragedy. Two passengers and several staff were on the train, but no injuries were reported, officials said.

The blast on the Warsaw-Lublin line follows a wave of arson, sabotage and cyber attacks that have hit Poland and other European countries since the start of Russias war against Ukraine.

Warsaw has in the past held Russia responsible, saying that Poland has become one of Moscows biggest targets due to its role as a hub for aid to Kyiv. Russia has repeatedly denied being responsible for acts of sabotage.

Mr Tusk insisted on Monday that just like in previous cases of this kind, we will catch the perpetrators, regardless of who their backers are, without identifying a suspect. In a video address, he added that the route was used to deliver weapons to Ukraine.

He called the incident an unprecedented act of sabotage aimed at the security of the Polish state and its citizens, and gave assurances that an investigation was underway.

Polish defence minister Wladyslaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said the military was inspecting a 120km (75 mile) stretch of track leading to the Ukrainian border.

open image in gallery A train driver reported the explosion on the tracks on a route used to deliver weapons to Ukraine ( AP )

Warsaw said in October that Poland and Romania had detained eight people suspected of planning sabotage on behalf of Russia.

Lublin police also reported on Sunday evening that a passenger train carrying 475 passengers had suddenly stopped on a route from Swinoujscie to Rzeszow. Windows in one of the carriages were reportedly broken, most likely due to a damaged traction line, they said.

The cause was not immediately clear. Nobody was injured in the incident.
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Polands foreign minister said Wednesday that he will order the closure of the last Russian consulate still operating in the country after authorities said two Ukrainian citizens working for Moscow are suspected of blowing up a railway line in Poland.

Radek Sikorski said he had repeatedly warned Russia that its diplomatic and consular presence would be reduced further if it didnt cease hostile actions against Poland, Polish news agency PAP reported.

In connection with this, though it will not be our full response, I have decided to withdraw consent for the operation of the last Russian consulate in Gdansk, he said. He added that Russia would be formally notified within hours.

The closure will leave Russia with only its embassy in Warsaw.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk has described the weekend explosion on a line linking Polands capital, Warsaw, to the border with Ukraine as an unprecedented act of sabotage.

On Monday, Tusk told the Polish parliament that the two suspects had been collaborating with the Russian secret services for a long time. He said their identities were known but could not be revealed to the public because of the ongoing investigation, and that the pair had already left Poland, crossing into Belarus.

Western officials have accused Russia and its proxies of staging dozens of attacks and other incidents across Europe since the invasion of Ukraine more than three years ago, according to data collected by The Associated Press. Moscows goal, Western officials say, is to undermine support for Ukraine, spark fear and divide European societies.
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Two Romanian villages were evacuated on Monday after a drone struck a Turkish-flagged tanker, setting it ablaze in southern Ukraine.

The MT Orinda was hit while offloading liquefied petroleum gas in a Ukrainian border city near Romania, sparking fires while more than a dozen workers were onboard.

The strike came the day after Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky signed a deal to import energy resources through the area of the strike.

Follow our live blog on the strike here.

open image in gallery All 16 people onboard were evacuated safely ( ISU Tulcea )

It was only the latest in Russias sustained use of drones, missiles and artillery to batter the Odesa region, especially its Black Sea ports, since its full-scale invasion of its neighbour nearly four years ago.

Heres all you need to know about the strike on the Turkish tanker.

What happened?

The strike on the Turkish tanker came as part of an overnight Russian air attack in which it fired two Iskander-M ballistic missiles and 128 strike and decoy drones across the country during the night, according to figures from Ukraine's air force.

MT Orinda was hit while it was offloading liquefied petroleum gas at Izmail port, Turkey's Directorate for Maritime Affairs said, adding that all 16 crew on board were evacuated and no one was hurt.

open image in gallery The tanker was ablaze after the Russian strike ( ISU Tulcea )

Although Ukrainian officials didn't comment on the tanker strike, the head of Odesas regional military administration Oleh Kiper said Russian drones attacked the region overnight, damaging energy and port infrastructure in several cities.

Multiple fires and several civilian vessels were damaged in the attack, Mr Kiper said, adding that one person was injured.

The incident came as Emmanuel Macron hosted Zelensky at the Elysee Palace in France, where the pair announced a deal to provide Kyiv with 100 Rafale fighter jets.

Where was the strike?

The strike was on a ship in the Izmail Port, which sits on the Danube River which delineates the entire border between Romania and Ukraine.

Izmail is a city and municipality in the southern Odesa region, which hosts the largest Ukrainian port on the Danube delta.

Weve created a map of exactly where the strike took place.

Why were towns evacuated?

Authorities in Romania, meanwhile, ordered the evacuation of people and animals from two villages close to Izmail on the Romanian side of the border.

Most of the scores of evacuated people come from the border village of Plauru, in Romanias eastern Tulcea district.

The decision was made over fears the tanker could explode, with Romanian authorities warning the nature of the tanker's cargo - liquefied natural gas (LNG) which is a flammable substance - required such precautions.

open image in gallery A Ukrainian vessel spraying water on a cargo ship loaded with liquified petroleum gas engulfed by flames following Russian strikes, early Monday ( AP )

Was the attack a Russian response to Kyivs new gas deal?

Lying on a Black Sea estuary, Izmail is one of a string of ports that are vital for Ukrainian imports and exports, particularly as Russia targets Ukraines energy infrastructure.

Zelensky is trying to secure imports of gas and other energy which would help see his country through the approaching winter, amid growing fears that it could be one of the most difficult for Ukraine.

The strike came just one day after the Ukrainian president had visited Greece to agree a deal for US liquefied natural gas to flow to Odesa, via pipelines from the northern Greek port of Alexandroupolis starting in January.

"As of today, we have prepared an agreement on gas for Ukraine," Mr Zelensky said according to The Kyiv Independent. "This will be another route for gas supply  to maximize the security of import routes for Ukraine during winter."
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The Kremlin has passed a raft of laws addressing vulnerabilities at home as Ukraine continues to prove a lethal and disruptive threat within Russias borders.

At least 20 regions have started calling up military reservists to help guard key infrastructure under a new law. Energy firms are glad for the extra support, but are tempering their expectations without proper air defences against incoming drones.

Moscow has also experimented with temporarily cutting off internet access for SIM cards on foreign networks, with Ukrainian drones increasingly capable of popping up behind enemy lines.

And this week, Vladimir Putin introduced new penalties for acts of sabotage, lowering the age at which a person can be charged from 16 to 14, and imposing harsher sentencing rules to act as a deterrent.

The sweeping laws recognise Ukraines growing ability to hit deep into Russian territory, as well as the expectation that the war could roll on for some time, despite public whispers of peace talks.

open image in gallery File. Ukraine has found ways to get drones and long-range missiles across the border to disrupt Russian industry ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The need for special training sessions for BARS reservists to defend vital infrastructure comes after months of Ukraine steadily refining its ability to hit energy sites across the country.

While these attacks alone will not force Putin to the negotiating table, they will contribute to a spike in domestic energy prices, weakening public support for continuing the war.

The new law allows Moscow to call up some two million people without declaring a new mobilisation. But experts doubt Russia still has the manpower available.

If there had been enough, reservists during the 2022 mobilisation, the authorities wouldnt have had to go out onto the streets and chase people, military analyst Alexei Alshansky told The Moscow Times.

Government sources told exiled outlet Verstka that the initiative had been rushed through at the Kremlins direction, and that the Duma may consider extending various benefits and perks if needed.

A manager at one of Russias largest oil and gas companies told the independent outlet that even ten extra men with Berdan rifles would be a boost - but a handful of reservists are no substitute for air defences.

If reservists are supposed to offer a last line of defence, SIM card cooling measures are Russias preventative step to stem Ukrainian drone assaults.

Russia should be able to prevent drones with LTE modems from connecting to local networks by shutting off internet access for devices that have connected to foreign networks or been offline for a few days.

Most of the drones used by Ukraine and Russia do not use mobile connectivity, as they can be switched off in combat, making them unreliable. Ukraine did, nonetheless, hit Russia hard with FPV drones using Russian mobile telecommunications networks during Operation Spider Web in June.

open image in gallery Damaged oil facilities at Russia's Novorossiysk Port after a Ukrainian missile and drone attack on Sunday - one of many such attacks in recent months ( Vantor )

The new penalties for sabotage lower the age at which minors can be charged by two years, and abolish statutes of limitations for related crimes.

Barring suspended sentences for sabotage and restricting parole until at least three-quarters of a sentence is served will also pose a strict deterrent for those tempted to work on Ukraines behalf in Russia.

Lawmakers cited foreign intelligence services recruiting young Russians in their decision to pass the amendments last week.
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European allies have been shaken by provocations on Natos eastern frontier in recent months, accusing Russia of making brazen incursions onto foreign soil to test the blocs responses and undermine collective resolve.

Russia has long been accused of interfering in European affairs. But the issue was thrust back into focus in September, when nearly two dozen drones crossed over into Poland amid a large-scale Russian drone attack on Ukraine. Days later, jets violated Estonias airspace as Russia concluded major drills in Belarus.

Subsequent activity near the border has forced Europeans to close airports and borders, causing major disruption and exposing vulnerability. Businesses have responded with a wave of military and civilian innovations to safeguard the continent against the threats of modern warfare.

This week, Polish prime minister Donald Tusk said that a domestic railway line used to deliver aid to Ukraine had been damaged in an explosion he called an act of sabotage. His security services minister said everything seemed to point to Russia.

A Turkish tanker on the Danube River between Ukraine and Romania was then struck and set ablaze in a drone strike, officials said, as Russian drones attacked the region overnight. Romanian villages were evacuated, and Romanian troops scanning for drones were back from their positions, local media reported.

Analysts say that Russia is deliberately provoking NATO to see how it reacts, gathering information that might be useful when it decides the time is right to make a move against an alliance member.

Strike on the Romanian border

A drone struck a Turkish-flagged tanker in Ukraine's southern Odesa region on 17 November, officials said, a day after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a deal to import US liquefied natural gas through the area.

The MT Orinda was hit during the offloading of petroleum gas at Izmail port, prompting evacuations from the vessel. Residents in nearby villages in Romania, across the Danube, were forced from their homes. Nobody was injured.

Russia has used drones, missiles and artillery to repeatedly batter the Odesa region, especially its Black Sea ports, since its full-scale invasion of its neighbour nearly four years ago. There was no immediate Russia comment Monday.

open image in gallery A cargo ship loaded with liquified petroleum gas engulfed by flames following Russian strikes ( ISU Tulcea )

Polish train-track explosion

An explosion that damaged a Polish railway track on a route to Ukraine on 16 November was soon after blamed on Russia, as prime minister Donald Tusk vowed to catch those responsible.

Polands security services minister, Tomasz Siemoniak, said the attack on a section of the track near Mika village marked a new stage of threatening the railway infrastructure, before a spokesperson for the minister said that everything pointed to Russian intelligence commissioning sabotage.

While visiting the site Monday, the prime minister said the incident had taken place on a line that is vital for delivering aid to Ukraine.

Polish officials said they were sure an explosive device had been detonated on a section of track between Warsaw and Lublin and later discovered damage to overhead cables on the same line. Both were likely sabotage, Polish officials said.

Natia Seskuria, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), told The Independent that Russia uses continued provocations against NATO members in Europe in order to signal that Moscow retains the capacity to escalate the conflict beyond Ukraines borders.

In doing so, Putin aims to pressure the West into concessions by raising the perceived costs of continued confrontation, she said.

open image in gallery Initial investigations into the Polish railway track explosion pointed to Russia, Polish officials said ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

Interceptions over the Baltic

Poland said on 30 October that its fighter jets had been scrambled to intercept a Russian reconnaissance plane over the Baltic Sea in the second such incident in a week.

Two days earlier, Polish jets intercepted a Russian aircraft flying in international airspace over the Baltic without a filed flight plan and with its transponder turned off.

Separately, Polish airports in Radom and Lublin reopened on Thursday after being forced shut by military aviation activity. Russian attacks on facilities in bordering Ukraine saw Polish and allied planes scrambled.

These provocations also function as a stress test for NATO unity, Seskuria explained. By probing for weaknesses and divisions among European allies and forcing Europe to focus inwards to defend its own airspace and critical infrastructure, Russia hopes to undermine collective resolve and weaken transatlantic cohesion.

This, she said, would help Russia improve its bargaining position ahead of any negotiations over the fate of Ukraine.

Weather balloons over Lithuania

Lithuania said on 29 October it would continue to close border crossings into Belarus until November in response to airspace disruptions by smugglers balloons.

The balloons, carrying cartons of cigarettes, forced airports in Lithuania to close several times in October. The EU said the balloons occur in the context of a broader targeted hybrid campaign.

Belarus president called the borders a crazy scam and accused the West of fighting a hybrid war against Belarus and Russia.

open image in gallery A pair of Polish Air Force MiG-29 fighters intercepted a Russian aircraft flying over the Baltic Sea ( DO RSZ )

Naval provocations off Denmark

Denmark accused Russian warships of repeatedly sailing on collision courses with Danish naval vessels and disrupting navigation systems in its straits connecting the Baltic to the North Sea at the start of October.

Such incidents risk unintended escalation, the defence intelligence ministry said on 3 October. The ministry said that Danish vessels and helicopters had been targeted by tracking radars and physically pointed at with weapons.

Drone sightings over Denmark

Denmarks armed forces reported at the end of September that unidentified drones had been observed near military installations.

On 24 September, airports in Aalborg and Billund had to close briefly, reporting drone activity. On 22 September, Copenhagen airport also had to close. Denmarks prime minister said that Russian involvement could not be ruled out. The Kremlin called the allegations unfounded.

In nearby Norway, Oslo airport was also closed over a possible drone sighting.

open image in gallery A damaged drone lies after falling in the eastern Polish village of Czosnowka ( Dariusz Stefaniuk )

Seskuria said it was likely, in her assessment, that Russia would continue pursuing provocations that remain below the threshold of a conventional military response, especially as diplomatic motions slow or stagger.

She said Moscows strategy relies on sustained pressure to test Western resolve without triggering a response. Where this leads depends largely on NATOs capacity to demonstrate unity and resilience, she added.

Fighter jet incursions in Estonia

Three Russian military jets violated NATO member Estonia's airspace for 12 minutes on 19 September in an "unprecedentedly brazen" incursion, according to the government.

Estonian foreign minister Margus Tsakhna said it was the fourth time that Russia has violated Estonian airspace in 2025.

The foreign ministry said that the incursion involved three Russian MIG-31 fighters and took place over the Gulf of Finland. The Russian charge d'affaires was summoned and given a protest note, a ministry statement said.

Military drills on NATOs frontier

Russia and Belarus carried out joint military drills in Belarus between 12 and 16 September - an event with prior planning, but coinciding with raised tensions over recent drone incursions.

Analysts observed at the time that Russia had used the drills in 2021 to build up troop numbers before attacking Ukraine months later.

Poland, Lithuania and Latvia all ramped up security around the 2025 exercises, which included planning the use of nuclear weapons.

open image in gallery Russian tanks move during the "Zapad-2025" drills in September ( AFP/Getty )

Drone incidents in eastern Europe

A Russian drone breached Romanian airspace on 13 September, prompting the military to scramble fighter jets.

The incident occurred during a Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure near the border, the defence ministry said.

Poland reported two days later that a drone had flown over the presidential palace in what it called a provocation. Two Belarusians were arrested.
Close We are Russias next target warns Nato chief

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Europe should prepare for a war like our grandparents endured and rapidly boost defence spending to deter the threat of Russia, Natos secretary general has warned.

Speaking at a conference in Berlin, Mark Rutte said that Europe needed to be crystal clear that we are Russias next target - and that Nato is already in harms way.

I fear that too many are quietly complacent. Too many dont feel the urgency. And too many believe that time is on our side. It is not. The time for action is now, he said.

Allied defence spending and production must rise rapidly. Our armed forces must have what they need to keep us safe.

His comments come as Volodymyr Zelensky said that Ukraine sent an updated version of its 20-point peace plan to the US, with both parties to hold a call on Thursday to discuss the proposal.

He said the US had discussed an idea to create a "free economic zone" in parts of eastern Ukraine where Kyiv's troops would withdraw, but that any territorial concessions would need to go to a referendum.
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Washington has been secretly forming a plan with Russia to end the war in Ukraine, according to a report.

The new 28-point plan would consist of security guarantees, security in Europe, and future US relations with Russia and Ukraine, Axios reported, citing sources.

It comes amid a fresh attempt by the US to force through a peace between Moscow and Kyiv after several diplomatic overtures faltered in recent months.

Mr Trumps special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is said to have discussed the plan with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev and Volodymyr Zelenskys security adviser Rustem Umerov, according to officials from Washington and Kyiv.

open image in gallery Donald Trump is renewing his push to end the war with a plan inspired by his Gaza ceasefire agreement, according to reports ( AP )

The proposal is reportedly inspired by Mr Trumps plan for the Gaza ceasefire, which came into effect in October. While the plan succeeded in ending the war, it has not ended violence in the enclave and both Hamas and Israel have accused the other of breaching the agreement.

The White House said it has also begun to brief European officials on the proposal, which will be discussed in high-level meetings this week, as EU countries suffer repeated territorial breaches by drones during Russian air attacks on Ukraine.

In a renewed push to end the war in Ukraine, Washington has also sent two top US Army officials for a rare wartime visit to Kyiv, according to Politico.

Army secretary Dan Driscoll and army chief of staff General Randy George arrived on an unannounced trip for talks with Ukraines leaders in an attempt to revive stalled peace talks with Russia, it was reported on Wednesday.

The pair are due to meet Mr Zelensky, senior commanders and lawmakers, the outlet reported, citing people familiar with the plans.

Mr Driscoll is also expected to meet Russian officials at a later date, the Wall Street Journal reported separately.

open image in gallery The meeting between the Russian and American leaders failed to bring about a breakthrough in ending the conflict ( AFP/Getty )

The White House has reportedly turned to Mr Driscoll and other senior commanders in the hope that Moscow might respond better to military intermediaries following earlier failed efforts with political officials.

Recently, Russias foreign minister Sergei Lavrov stated his readiness to meet US secretary of state Marco Rubio to discuss mending bilateral ties, following reports that he had been sidelined by Putin over his failure to secure a peace summit with Mr Trump.

Mr Lavrov spoke by phone to Mr Rubio on 20 October to discuss the possible summit, but the Financial Times cited a source as suggesting that his conversation with Mr Rubio had put Washington off.

The next day, Mr Trump said that he did not want to hold a meeting that would be a waste of time. He later said he had cancelled the summit because it just didn't feel right.

open image in gallery A Ukrainian firefighter uses a water hose to extinguish a fire at the site of a Russian strike in Kharkiv ( AFP via Getty )

A highly anticipated meeting between Mr Trump and Putin in Alaska last August failed to yield a breakthrough in achieving peace.

The visit to Kyiv comes as Russian forces make gradual advances along parts of the front line and step up missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Kyivs Western allies are looking for new ways to sustain weapons and ammunition supplies.

Russia last night launched a huge air attack on Ukraine, firing 518 drones and missiles at targets across Ukraine, including the countrys west, and killing at least nine people while injuring dozens, Mr Zelensky said. Many people could be trapped under the rubble, he added.
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A Russian spy ship is lurking near British waters where it directed lasers at UK military pilots who were surveilling its activities, the defence secretary has said.

Royal Navy frigates and RAF P-8 planes had been deployed to monitor the Yantar vessel, which is designed for gathering intelligence, when the Russians directed the lasers at the planes.

Defence secretary John Healey said Britain is ready to respond, with military options drawn up if the ship heads south, in a warning to Russian president Vladimir Putin.

He told a Westminster press conference: My message to Russia and to Putin is this: we see you. We know what youre doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

But what is the Yantar vessel  and what is it doing near British territory?

The Yantar, a research ship

Yantar is a special-purpose vessel built by the Russian Navys secretive Main Directorate of Underwater Research (GUGI), an element of Russias armed forces  although it reports directly to the Ministry of Defence.

Its objective, according to the Council on Geostrategy, a non-profit think tank based in Westminster, London, is to operate submarines that can gather intelligence on the deep sea, allowing possible sabotage of underwater cables.

open image in gallery Defence secretary John Healey called the Yantars actions deeply dangerous ( Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright )

The ship, which was launched in 2012 and commissioned for work in 2015, is 107.8m (354 ft) long and can reach a speed of 15knots (28kph).

It has since been spotted carrying out operations near the Caribbean islands, Brazil, Norway, Greenland, the Mediterranean and Ireland, among other areas.

In January, Yantar was spotted near British waters, with Mr Healey describing it as another example of growing Russian aggression.

What is Yantar doing?

When Yantar approached British waters in January, Mr Healey said the ship was used for mapping the UKs critical water infrastructure.

On Wednesday, he echoed those comments.

It is part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk, he said.

It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

The UK and Nato allies are increasingly concerned about the risk Moscow poses to offshore cables, pipelines and other infrastructure critical to internet connectivity.

open image in gallery Undated handout photo issued by the Ministry of Defence of the Russian spy ship Yantar operating on the edge of UK waters ( Ministry of Defence/Crown Copyright )

Use of lasers an escalation, warns expert

The Yantar directed lasers at two RAF planes, in a move described by Mr Healey as deeply dangerous.

Anything that impedes, disrupts or puts at risk pilots in charge of British military planes is deeply dangerous, he said. This is the first time weve had this action from Yantar directed against the British RAF  we take it extremely seriously.

Elisabeth Braw, a senior fellow at American security think tank the Atlantic Council, told BBC Radio 4s World at One that it was an escalation for sure.

She added: Essentially, you do it to impede the pilots from doing their work. We dont know exactly how strong the lasers were, but even if they didnt blind the pilots, it was provocative.

open image in gallery The ship directed lasers at an RAF P-8 aircraft ( Getty )

Is Britain vulnerable?

Mr Healey has sought to reassure the British public and warn off Moscow, saying that if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready.

Attacks on undersea cables could cause catastrophic disruption to the financial and communications systems Britons rely on, the National Security Strategy committee warned in a September report.

The Yantar has been within the UKs exclusive economic zone, which extends up to 200 nautical miles  about 230 miles  offshore, but has been on the edge of Britains territorial waters, within 12 nautical miles (13.8 miles) from the coast.

But Dr Sidharth Kaushal, an expert in maritime technology at the RUSI think tank, told Sky News the undersea cables near the UK are relatively redundant, but warned the pipelines delivering gas could be more vulnerable to attack.

I think in some ways the pipeline network is far more fragile because there we are more reliant on a handful of critical pipelines, he said.
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Jamal Khashoggi was a Saudi journalist, Washington Post commentator, prominent analyst we all spoke to regularly and (I use this descriptor carefully) a cautious dissenter.

It is no exaggeration to say that his murder had  at the time  a profound impact on the geopolitical tectonic plates of the world.

On 2 October 2018, he went to the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey, and never came out again.

Even a Saudi official investigation concluded that he had been strangled, drugged, and his body dismembered and disposed of in an operation that was intended to bring him back to the kingdom by means of persuasion or, if that failed, by force.

As the grisly details of bone saws emerged, the impact of his murder swept around the globe.

Particularly when, a few years later in February 2021, the Office of the Director of National Intelligence in the United States said that no rogue outfit had instigated this.

open image in gallery The journalist was caught up in the crown princes attempts to consolidate his power, eliminate rivals and seize the assets of his countrys billionaires ( AFP/Getty )

Instead, they accused Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman himself, the de facto ruler of the kingdom, of approving an operation to capture or kill him.

MBS, as he is known, and his government vehemently and repeatedly denied the allegations of his knowledge and involvement.

But it was too late. President Joe Biden said he wanted to make MBS and his administration a pariah on the world stage.

On Tuesday came a very different reception from the Republican president.

On 18 November 2025, MBS is received in the White House as the guest of honour in his first visit there since Khashoggis murder.

Sitting by his side is US president Donald Trump, who is dressing down an ABC journalist who has dared to ask the Saudi ruler about the brutal murder of a fellow reporter that the CIA has directly linked to him.

Fake news ABC  one of the worst in the business, Trump says furiously, adding, You do not have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.

MBS was not only doing a phenomenal job, he adds, but he knew nothing about the killing.

open image in gallery Trump eviscerated a journalist for asking about the murder of Jamal Khashoggi in front of Mohammed bin Salman ( AP )

Khashoggi, meanwhile, the US president concludes, was somebody extremely controversial.

A lot of people did not like that gentleman [Khashoggi] that you are talking about. Whether you liked him or did not like him, things happen, but [MBS] knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that.

MBS, clearly uncomfortable, said it was painful and a mistake and claimed that Saudi Arabia had improved our system to be sure that nothing happened like that.

For Trump, contradicting your own countrys intelligence assessment, exonerating the accused perpetrator who is also a guest head of state, and writing off a brutal murder merely as things happen, all while besmirching the victims reputation, is extraordinary.

Especially as Trump was chastising the journalist who, at a press conference, was asking a comparatively basic question.

This is deeply concerning for all of us.

What kind of message does Trumps casual disregard for it send to autocratic rulers around the world? What kind of message does it give to press freedoms globally, to freedom in general? What kind of message does it send to the US, at a time when it is struggling with freedoms itself?

open image in gallery Jamal Khashoggi was last seen walking into the Saudi Arabian consulate in Istanbul in October 2018

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) said in its latest report that after a century of gradual expansion of press rights in the United States, the country is experiencing its first significant and prolonged decline in press freedom in modern history adding that Trumps return to the presidency is greatly exacerbating the situation.

It attributed this to early moves in his second term of office, including banning the Associated Press from the White House.

The Committee to Protect Journalists, another global media watchdog, rang the alarm bells in a report released in April, concluding that a flurry of executive actions has created a chilling effect and have the potential to curtail media freedoms.

CPJ even noted a significant increase in the number of newsrooms seeking safety advice.

And this is just through the lens of the media. Respected institutions like the global watchdog the Varieties of Democracy project based in Stockholm, and the think tank Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, have all sounded the alarm more generally.

In August, Carnegie released a paper comparing the democratic backsliding in the United States to countries like Hungary, India, Poland and Turkey. It highlighted the Trump teams efforts to secure an extreme form of presidential concentration of power within the executive branch, which is dominant over other parts of the government.

This also signals the clear direction of US foreign policy. I do not think anyone is under any illusion that the United States work abroad has ever been anchored in truly being a selfless beacon of democracy and freedom.

open image in gallery Donald Trump, Mohammed bin Salman and first lady Melania Trump prepare to attend a dinner at the White House on 18 November 2025 in Washington DC ( Getty )

But usually there is a veneer. And that was well and truly stripped away in Tuesdays display of fury against the media, Trumps contradiction of his own intelligence service conclusions, and casual dismissal, nay, acceptance of a murder of a journalist.

Martin Luther King Jrs injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere has been quoted ad nauseam precisely because it is so prescient and true.

And that is the warning that comes to mind now.

We are caught in an inescapable network of mutuality, tied in a single garment of destiny, he concluded in that letter from Birmingham jail. Whatever affects one directly, affects all indirectly.
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A once crime-ridden street in New York City is now so hip that its been declared not just the coolest in the U.S., but one of 10 coolest in the world.

That buzzy artery is Orchard Street in the Lower East Side, an area that through much of the 20th century was one of the most impoverished in NYC, rife with pick-pocketing and gang activity.

Since then, the thoroughfare has undergone a dramatic transformation  and today it has been unveiled as No.9 in Time Outs 2025 ranking of the Worlds Coolest Streets.

open image in gallery This US street is the coolest in America, according to a new ranking by TimeOut.. Orchard Street in New York City has undergone a dramatic transformation  and today it has been unveiled as No.9 in Time Outs 2025 ranking of the Worlds Coolest Streets ( Getty Images )

Time Out describes the eight-block stretch as being packed with fascinating shops and dining destinations, a spot where music spills out of bars and restaurants drag tables into the street as thrift stores, leather shops and art galleries shut up shop for the day.

The guide also points out that new additions to the street, such as bookstore/podcast studio P&T Knitwear and photobooth museum Autophoto, are drawing crowds.

The best place to eat there? Try Scarrs Pizza, which mills its own grain and serves slices Time Out claims are among the best in the world.

Drinks-wise, head to Bar Contra for cocktails that will keep your tastebuds entertained.

To learn more about the areas gritty past, head to the Tenement Museum, which keeps alive the stories of the immigrants who lived there.

The No.1 spot on the Coolest Streets list, meanwhile, goes to Rue do Senado in Rio de Janeiro, followed by Orange Street in Osaka, Rua do Bonjardim in Porto, Fanghua Street in Chengdu and Sherbrooke Street West in Montreal.

open image in gallery Time Out describes Orchard Street as being 'packed with fascinating shops and dining destinations' ( P&T Knitwear/Leandro Justen )

Commenting on the winner, Time Out said: With its historic townhouses and traditional bars, Rua do Senado is the first street in South America to top this Time Out list.

Once known for its antique shops and bohemian vibe, the street is undergoing a stylish revival and now pulses with a new wave of energy.

It added: Rua do Senado is known for hosting the lively Samba do Armazem Senado sessions on Saturdays, while offering a wide array of restaurants, shops and bars, and art collective Solar dos Abacaxis, which is located in a former 1912 factory.

The 10 coolest streets in the world
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A historic ocean liner, the SS United States, is set to become the worlds largest artificial reef, destined for the depths off Floridas Gulf Coast early next year.

Okaloosa County officials confirmed on Tuesday that the vessel is expected to be scuttled in early 2026, approximately 22 nautical miles (41 kilometres) southwest of Destin and 32 nautical miles (59 kilometres) southeast of Pensacola.

The nearly 1,000-foot (305-metre) ship, which famously broke the trans-Atlantic speed record on its maiden voyage in 1952, has spent much of this year at the Port of Mobile in Alabama, undergoing extensive cleaning to remove chemicals, wiring, plastic, and glass. Its final resting place was chosen following an agreement with Pensacola tourism officials, who are contributing contributing $1.5 million to the project, and Coastal Conservation Association Florida, which is kicking in another $500,000.

Officials had been considering two other locations, including one that would have placed the ship further east and closer to Panama City Beach.

open image in gallery The SS United States travels along the Hudson River as it begins its first voyage to Europe from New York, July 3, 1952, with the view of the Midtown Manhattan skyline including the Empire State Building at center right. (AP Photo/Jack Harris, File) ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

This collaboration will foster amazing adventures for generations of visitors and create a tourism economy that will benefit the state and the entire Northwest Florida region, Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon said in a statement.

The contributions will be used to transform the SS United States into an artificial reef and finance a multi-year marketing campaign. The deal is part of Okaloosa County's $10.1 million plan to purchase, move, clean and sink the ship, which includes $1 million toward a onshore museum to promote the ships history.

Once in place, the SS United States will sit at a depth of about 180 feet (55 meters), but the vessel is so tall that the top decks will be about 60 feet (18 meters) from the surface, making it attractive to both novice and experienced divers. The artificial reef will also be about 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) away from to the USS Oriskany, another popular dive destination that was sunk in 2006.

The SS United States is set to join Okaloosa Countys more than 500 artificial reefs, which include a dozen smaller ship wrecks.

The transformation of the SS United States into the worlds largest artificial reef creates a rare opportunity to elevate our entire region on the global stage," said Darien Schaefer, president and CEO of Visit Pensacola.

The new artificial reef will provide essential marine life habitat, which prompted Coastal Conservation Association Florida to make its largest donation in the organization's 40-year history.

It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to the creation of the worlds largest artificial reef, CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski said in a statement.

open image in gallery The SS United States is towed down the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, from Philadelphia, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke) ( Copyright 2025 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. )

The SS United States arrived in Alabama at the beginning of March following a 12-day tow from Philadelphias Delaware River, where it has spent nearly three decades. Okaloosa County took ownership after a years-old rent dispute was resolved last October between the conservancy that oversees the ship and its landlord.

Various groups have attempted to restore the SS United States over the years, but all plans were eventually abandoned because of the steep cost. Recently, increased media attention has generated more calls to preserve the ship, and a group called the New York Coalition sued in Pensacola federal court asking a judge to halt sinking such a historically significant vessel.

But Okaloosa County officials have said that preventing the SS United States from becoming a reef would only send it to the scrapyard.

The vessel, which is more than 100 feet (30 meters) longer than the RMS Titanic, was once considered a beacon of American thousands of troops. On its maiden voyage, the ship reached an average speed of 36 knots, or just over 41 mph (66 kph), The Associated Press reported from aboard.

The ship crossed the Atlantic Ocean in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes, besting the RMS Queen Marys time by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the trans-Atlantic speed record for an ocean liner.
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If youre looking for a reason to visit North Dakota, it pays to do the math.

It's around 70,700 square miles  or the size of England and Scotland combined  yet has a population of just 780,000 people, roughly the number of people who live in comparatively diminutive Seattle.

It means that you'll often feel as though you have the state's landscapes all to yourself. And what landscapes they are.

There's the otherworldly Badlands, with its layer-cake rocks and striking canyons; Theodore Roosevelt National Park, with its vast herds of bison and soaring bald eagles; and then those beautiful prairies.

There are also impressive museums and cultural centers to explore, plus unique roadside attractions that are ideal to break up road trips, from former nuclear missile bunkers to a 60-ton giant buffalo.

Not to be overlooked are North Dakotas vibrant cities, with boutique hotels and edgy art displays.

The state consistently ranks as one of America's least-visited  but here's why it shouldn't.

Epic landscapes  the Badlands and beyond

open image in gallery The spellbinding Badlands  a maze of cliffs, pinnacles and canyons that look like layer cakes ( Matthew Leitner )

When it comes to epic landscapes, North Dakota delivers at every compass point. And discovering its wilds (you won't have to travel far) can feel like entering another world.

This is particularly acute in the spellbinding Badlands  a maze of cliffs, pinnacles and canyons 190 miles long and up to 20 miles wide in the state's far west.

The term was coined by French frontier fur traders who were in the area from around the mid-1700s to early 1800s, and found them to be "bad lands to travel through." Today, they're a bucket list destination, with the incredible multi-colored rock formations appearing like layer cakes.

Within the Badlands sits Theodore Roosevelt National Park, a 110-square-mile crowd-free wilderness named for the "Conservation President. He was said to be so smitten with the area and its "perfect freedom" that he bought a cattle ranch there in 1883 to re-energize after the loss of his wife and mother.

Here, you'll see free-roaming bison, elk, horses, prairie dogs and bald eagles by day and gaze at star-filled skies at night.

Of Roosevelt's Elkhorn Ranch on a bend of the Little Missouri River, only a few foundation stones remain. There's no visitor center or gift shop, just the raw countryside that had such a transformative effect on the 26th president.

For an adventurous, breathtaking-view-packed journey through the park, follow the 144-mile Maah Daah Hey Trail, a favorite for mountain bikers, hikers and horseback riders.

Read more: Why your next city break should be to Chicago, not NYC

History, culture and Indigenous heritage

open image in gallery At Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park you can step inside replica Mandan Native American earthlodges ( North Dakota Tourism )

North Dakota was populated in waves over centuries, starting with First Nations by the Missouri River, and followed by fur traders, frontier soldiers and then Scandinavian, German and Ukrainian homesteaders who arrived in the late 1800s as railroad tracks were laid over the prairies.

You can learn more about how and why the state's populations ebbed and flowed at four compelling cultural centers. Theres Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park, just south of Mandan in central North Dakota, which incorporates On-a-Slant Village, where you can step inside replica Mandan Native American earthlodges, while a mile away at Fort Abraham Lincoln itself you can wander through reconstructed 1870s U.S. Army buildings, including Lt. Col. George Custer's house.

From here, it's a 50-mile drive north along the Missouri River to the Lewis & Clark Interpretive Center in Washburn, located close to the site where explorers Meriwether Lewis and William Clark spent the winter of 18041805 during their westward expedition to map the Louisiana Territory and forge a pathway to the Pacific. The center's exhibits reveal how they only survived thanks to essential help from the Mandan and Hidatsa peoples.

Continue about 70 miles northwest to New Town where you can discover more about how the Mandan, Hidatsa and Arikara peoples shaped the region at the MHA Interpretive Center, overlooking Lake Sakakawea.

Seventy miles west on the Montana border lies the Fort Union Trading Post National Historic Site, a stunning reconstruction of a 19th-century trading post.

Read more: See Miami in a new light: Six neighborhoods that might just surprise you

Museums that punch above their weight

open image in gallery The Badlands Dinosaur Museum features 11 full-scale dinosaur skeletons ( North Dakota Tourism )

To get a handle on the big picture  North Dakota's place in history  head to the flagship North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum in the capital, Bismarck. It delves 600 million years into the past and brings you up to the present via thousands of artefacts and specimens, high-tech displays and interactive exhibits. Highlights include a Mars spacesuit and a life-size Tyrannosaurus skeleton cast.

Want more dinosaurs? Look no further than the Badlands Dinosaur Museum in Dickinson, 100 miles to the west. It features 11 full-scale dinosaur skeletons inside and two outside, including a remarkably intact Triceratops skull and several fossilized skeletons found in the area. Intriguingly, you'll learn here how North Dakota wasn't always prairie  in one ancient era, the state was a subtropical swamp.

North Dakota's museum offering is further strengthened by two top-tier institutions in Grand Forks and Fargo.

In the former is the North Dakota Museum of Art, which sits on the University of North Dakota campus. Here, you can wander three galleries housing rotating exhibitions of regional, national and international art, from installations by Native Americans to global human-rights photography. On permanent display is late New York City artist and collector Barton Benes' recreated apartment, complete with oddities he discovered on his global travels.

Fargo is home to the state's biggest art gallery  the Plains Art Museum, where you can peruse a bewitching mix of contemporary works and Native American art. If you thought North Dakota was all back country, the edgy urban works on show here will be an eye-opener.

Read more: Five bucket-list train journeys that showcase Americas most breathtaking scenery

Roadside Americana and quirky stops

open image in gallery The Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site offers a rare look inside America's Cold War nuclear defense network. Pictured is the launch control center ( North Dakota Tourism )

Exploring North Dakota involves a lot of driving, but there are plenty of quirky stops to make the journeys interesting. The state embraces the strange and unusual  and so should you.

One of the most intriguing roadside attractions is the Ronald Reagan Minuteman Missile State Historic Site near the small town of Cooperstown in east-central North Dakota, which offers a rare look inside America's Cold War nuclear defense network.

Like other sites scattered across the north plains, this one housed nuclear missiles primed to be launched within minutes in the event of a nuclear attack. It is one of the only missile sites of its kind open to the public.

You can tour rooms above ground that look just as they did in the 1960s, when the site was built, then descend 50 feet below via an elevator to the nerve center, where crews monitored missiles and awaited orders to launch 365 days a year.

Taking you from Cold War drama to Instagrammable whimsy, 60 miles to the southwest is Jamestown, home to the World's Largest Buffalo, which stands proud at the end of Louis L'Amour Lane.

No, not a real-life one, but a 26-foot-tall, 60-ton concrete buffalo created by sculptor Elmer Petersen that has been standing sentinel over Jamestown since 1959, and has proven to be a social media sensation in recent years. He's called Dakota Thunder.

In competition for roadside eccentricity is the "Enchanted Highway, one end of which lies 70 miles to the west near Gladstone. The 32-mile stretch of road, which begins at Exit 72 on the I-94, is lined with some of the biggest roadside artworks in the world.

Created by local artist Gary Greff, the joyfully unexpected collection includes giant grasshoppers, a towering tin family, leaping deer and huge geese "flying" over the prairie.

Read more: A Euro trip without leaving America: Seven US towns that look exactly like places in Europe

North Dakota's vibrant cities and upscale hotels

open image in gallery Rustic cabins are available, but North Dakota also offers sleek stays, such as Jasper Hotel in Fargo ( Jasper Hotel )

Epic natural landscapes are North Dakota's calling card, but the state's cities shouldn't be overlooked.

First-time visitors will be surprised by the sheer vibrancy of the urban landscapes in the state, which are charged with a forward-thinking, entrepreneurial energy and home to some eye-catching hotels.

Fargo, the largest city, is brimming with street art, boutique shops, buzzy restaurants and indie coffee shops.

And there's the city's Jasper Hotel, where a chic, Nordic-inspired aesthetic surprises visitors expecting frontier-vibe accommodation.

Grand Forks, 90 miles north, is walkable, welcoming and proud of its university. Here, one of the most characterful stays in the states comes courtesy of the Olive Ann Hotel, which is set in a restored historic bank and pays homage decor-wise to aviation pioneer Olive Ann Beech.

Further west, Minot adds another layer of surprise  it's becoming something of a hub for public art and small, creative businesses, with Revel Hotel Minot offering an enticing, boutique option to base yourself at.

If only something firmly rustic will do for a night's sleep, then book into the Coteau des Prairies Lodge, perched high on a ridge in rural southeast Dakota. Here, farm-to-table meals, star-filled skies and total tranquility are the order of the day.

How to get there

Most travellers reach North Dakota by air and will fly into one of the state's three main airports: Fargo (eastern), Bismarck (central) or Minot (north-central).

For drivers, the Interstate 94 is the main artery. It runs east-west across the entire state, forming a link between Minnesota and Montana.

Rail options are limited, though Amtrak's Empire Builder runs across northern North Dakota with stops in Fargo, Grand Forks, Devils Lake, Minot, Stanley and Williston.

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Famous for its historic monuments and breathtaking natural beauty, Ohrid is one of Europes oldest settlements. It offers a truly unique experience for visitors, who can wander the charming cobbled streets of the Old Town, explore ancient sites, or unwind by the UNESCO-listed Lake Ohrid. The lakes impossibly clear waters are perfect for swimming, sailing or simply enjoying the views from a sun lounger or lakeside bar.

However, while Ohrid offers visitors a captivating window to an earlier time, this stunning North Macedonian town is also emerging as a forward-thinking new travel hub, both regionally and locally.

At the centre of this transformation is Filip Stefanoski, whose multinational travel company, DMC Balkans & Europe, hosted tens of thousands of international travellers last year. The incoming tour operator utilises innovative technology and strong regional connections to deliver an impressive spectrum of travel and event services.

Meet the founder: Filip Stefanoski

open image in gallery Filip wants to create meaningful tourism experiences that honour the culture and heritage of his homeland ( DMC Balkans & Europe )

Filip, a self-made entrepreneur, is recognised as one of the most influential tourism leaders in the Balkans. However, transforming his hometown of Ohrid into a global travel hub was no small feat. By adopting AI-driven travel management systems, forging collaborations with top international tour operators and following a leadership philosophy rooted in faith, integrity and innovation, he has redefined modern Balkan tourism.

For CEO Filip, success is not merely commercial, though. He is driven by the desire to create meaningful tourism experiences that connect people, while honouring the culture and heritage of his homeland.

His company, DMC Balkans & Europe, has helped unite the often-fragmented region, while also showcasing the beauty of North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia and Greece to the world.

Discover authentic journeys with DMC Balkans & Europe

open image in gallery DMC Balkans & Europe showcases the beauty of destinations including North Macedonia, Croatia and Greece (DMC Balkans & Europe) ( DMC Balkans & Europe )

Founded in Ohrid, DMC Balkans & Europe is a destination management company (DMC), specialising in the Balkans and Europe, serving clients worldwide. From curated package tours to fully customisable itineraries, it delivers seamless travel solutions, tailored to individuals, agencies and partners alike.

With offices in Ljubljana, Dubai, Taipei, Kuala Lumpur and Manila, the company serves over 25 global markets, delivering high-quality travel experiences that combine local expertise with unrivalled professionalism. It also excels in MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences and exhibitions), offering tailored solutions for business travel, escorted tours, trade fair packages and more. Over the past nine years, the team has built a strong reputation as a trusted partner for numerous international corporations and government institutions.

Its AI-powered booking platform Deb.travel, lets travellers and agencies plan complete, customised trips, with the option to book flights, local tours, hotels, transfers and unforgettable experiences, all in one place. Thanks to the companys extensive partner network and deep local knowledge, it offers competitive pricing and the chance to embark on a truly authentic trip, where every detail is taken care of.

Ohrid: A gateway to the Balkans

open image in gallery The scenic town of Ohrid is one of Europes oldest settlements and is steeped in history ( DMC Balkans & Europe )

Even as the companys influence expands across Europe and beyond, its heart remains in its birthplace of Ohrid. With its beauty, rich heritage and welcoming spirit, its the perfect starting point  or stopover  for any trip.

As an incoming tour operator, DMC Balkans & Europe truly shines when it comes to showcasing the local region, so its no surprise that so many of its itineraries include Ohrid. You could easily spend the whole trip within the historic town, exploring the beautiful cobbled streets, history-steeped churches (365 in total), or relaxing at Lake Ohrid, with its magnificent, inviting blue waters. Dont forget to try the local cuisine either, including the Macedonian national speciality of tavce gravce, a hearty bean dish served in a clay pot.

For those wishing to venture further, Ohrid is also a brilliant starting point for exploring the region, with easy connections to North Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia and Greece.

With government support and airline incentives boosting accessibility, North Macedonias tourism industry is fast gaining momentum. Yet the country, and Ohrid itself, still feels like a hidden gem, offering a tranquillity that cant be found in some of its busier European neighbours.

A new face of Balkan tourism

Today, Ohrid stands as more than just a destination. Its a symbol of a new, connected era of Balkan tourism; one where innovation meets rich history. One thats waiting to be explored.
Dalton Philips is overseeing impending 1.2bn deal to buy peer Bakkavor

Greencores strong performance and its impending 1.2bn (1.4bn) takeover of Bakkavor will see potential pay packages of chief executive Dalton Philips and chief financial officer Catherine Gubbins jump this financial year.

Mr Philips was paid a total of 6.5m in the last financial year as he benefited from 4.5m worth of shares that vested in the period under a 2023 performance plan. They must now be held for at least two years.
Some 27.4bn worth of goods were exported in the month, up 10bn or 57pc on the figure for August. The most notable spike was in sales to America, with the value of exports going there increasing from just over 4bn in August to 16.28bn, a surge that may not go unnoticed in the White House.
Everything gets used  jewellery designer who turns old coffee pods into true gems

Lucan woman is encouraging Dubliners to wake up and wear the coffee

Dublin woman, Jayne Durrad, turns discarded coffee pods into unique jewellery pieces

Sarah Burke Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

A Dublin woman is fighting fast fashion with her upcycled jewellery by creating her own jewels from donated materials, including coffee pods.
This Working Life: I have over 400,000 TikTok followers now... if I do a collab I often buy new things for the school
Former RTE star Niamh Devine was attacked by two men while travelling in Asia in 2018  now shes helping others deal with their trauma
Why these Cavan sheep breeders swear by the Red of the West

Rouge de lOuest are becoming increasingly valued for their hardiness, maternal quality and adaptability to Irish conditions, says Oliver Keaskin, who explains why he was so proud to export a ram to France, why he sprays sheep a chocolate biscuit shade for shows, and why he also keeps commercial ewes

Oliver and Claire Keaskin with some of their sheep. Photo: Rory Geary

Catherina Cunnane Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Twenty-five years of dedication to the Rouge de lOuest breed have brought Cavan sheep farmer Oliver Keaskin national titles, international sales and even the milestone of selling a ram back to France, where the breed is originally from.
Gambling addict jailed after trying to smuggle 300k of drugs through Dublin Airport

Jacob Napolitano (28) had arrived into Ireland on an Aer Lingus flight from Los Angelas last May when a customs officer became suspicious of his behaviour

Dublin Airport. Photo: Getty

Declan Brennan Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 10:33

A Californian gambling addict caught trying to smuggle nearly 300,000 worth of drugs through Dublin airport has been jailed for four years.
Victims husband was left critically injured after a knife-wielding man confronted them outside their home

A young man has been charged with the murder of his mother and with assault causing harm to his father close to the family home in Ballinlough on the southside of Cork city on Monday night.
They feared their little boy was going to die  Child (8) waits nearly two hours for ambulance after suffering horrific injury
Following the resignation of Paschal Donohoe as Minister for Finance yesterday, a mini Cabinet reshuffle has taken place which will see some ministers step into new positions as of today.
More than a quarter of calls made to a support organisation last year involved people who had an eating disorder for over 10 years.

The annual report of Bodywhys said living with a long-standing eating disorder or supporting somebody with one is incredibly difficult and we strive to provide ongoing support for people in this situation.
Carenting: Three Irish people who care for elderly parents on the mental, physical and financial toll  and their advice to others

Looking after a loved one in their old age can be rewarding, but also intensely challenging. Here, three carers talk frankly about how their lives have been impacted since the parent/child roles were reversed

Megan OHara recently gave up her job to look after her father. Photo: Frank McGrath

Arlene Harris Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

Parents look after their children until they fly the nest, and then, when the time comes, the roles are reversed with some needing more care than others. According to Family Carers Ireland, there are currently more than 500,000 people looking after a parent or loved one in Ireland, some in their own homes and others living nearby.
When the GP became concerned with a number of little spots on her babys body, a subsequent MRI saw any mums worst nightmare unfold right before Cliona Leamys eyes. But there was support available that proved a lifeline

Izzy was a brilliant baby, quite content and happy. She was my second, so I was absolutely delighted, as my son, Ben, had been a screamer.

The first sign of anything amiss was a public-health visit in which the nurse was not happy with Izzys weight and rang my GP. I did not think too much of it as she was a breast-fed baby and that was quite common.

My GP got us an appointment with a consultant really quickly and a failure to thrive was diagnosed

It was at this appointment that little spots on her body were noted and I was asked how many she had? She had seven of them. I thought they were little birthmarks but the consultant called them cafe au lait marks.

When I did some further investigation and saw that they were part of a genetic disorder called neurofibromatosis, I started to panic.

At our next appointment, I asked for Izzy to be tested for this, and so Izzy was referred to a consultant in neurofibromatosis (NF) who conducted a blood test to be sent to Scotland for screening.

Izzy was diagnosed with NF1 about six months later. This was confirmed with the blood test another month afterwards. In between all of this happening, Izzy was very unwell. She had persistent bouts of vomiting and weighed only nine kilos. She was 15 months old at this point.

I also attended the GP and asked to have her ears checked as she was always at her right ear. All came back clear. She was admitted to hospital where several tests were done  an ultrasound, blood tests and a urine sample. Everything was clear except the urine sample showed raised catecholamines and a repeat sample was requested.

After this, I was told that they were sending Izzy for an MRI of her stomach and chest. At my mums insistence, I rang a few days before the MRI for her head to be checked as well. Mum felt something was wrong with the way Izzy was rubbing her ear.

Cliona with Brian, Izzy and Ben

Today's News in 90 Seconds - Wednesday November 19

We were booked in for the MRI in April 2018. It was the day after my sons fourth birthday and my husband Brian and I were nervous wrecks. We were supposed to be a day-case for the MRI but the anaesthesiologist was not happy and wanted Izzy admitted for the night before he would proceed with the MRI. We had nothing with us so that was another scramble.

Izzy went for the MRI and, when she came back, she was very unwell. The consultant came up to the ward to talk to us and that was when we were told that they had found quite a sizeable tumour in her brain stem. I can still remember the heat in the room and the feeling of fear creep into my body.

After leaving the room, the worst phone call I have ever had to make was to my mum to tell her. I still cant quite get over that feeling.

A neurosurgeon came up to speak to us about a biopsy to see what we were dealing with. Looking back now, it felt like I was having an out-of-body experience. The fear was literally all around us. We hadnt slept or eaten anything in days as, every time I tried to eat something, I couldnt hold it down. At the same time, I was trying to keep a smile on my face for Izzy and Ben.

The family on holidays together

I never thought in a million years that this would ever happen to us. I just could not believe that our worst nightmare was happening right before our eyes.

We were going to have to wait three weeks for the biopsy results. This was the longest three weeks of all our lives as we tried to keep everything light for the kids. We had a family trip to Disneyland Paris booked for the break, but had to cancel. Telling Ben, and seeing the disappointment on his face, was heartbreaking.

We got the results three weeks later that it was a low-grade glioma in her brain stem. This was good news. We would now be going to CHI Crumlin to meet an oncologist to talk about the next steps. When we met her, I instantly felt at ease. She was so warm and loving, and spoke so gently about what would happen next. In a weird way, I felt more in control from this point. Izzy would have weekly chemotherapy in St Johns Ward and would have a Hickman line, AKA Freddy, put in  this is a tube into a vein in the chest to provide long-term access to treatments. She would also need a feeding tube put in for medicine and food.

We were going to do 18 months of chemotherapy, and this is where I felt our journey became easier.

We got to know the nurses, doctors, and cleaners on St Johns. They were like a little family. Izzy looked forward every Wednesday to going in to see her friends and the play therapist.

We would come with cakes or ice creams for everyone on the hot days. I know it might sound crazy, but we enjoyed her weekly visit. Dont get me wrong. There were needles and sickness. Sometimes she would be so upset, but it was made easier by the staff whom I could never thank enough.

Brain Tumour Ireland has been a lifeline to people like us and the community of parents with its webinars where you get to chat to many other people in the same situation. Barretstown Christmas Day, where we get to meet the same families every year, and develop strong bonds and friendships, is also really special. I am eternally grateful for all the work that goes on behind-the-scenes in making these things happen.

Five years on, even writing this now, Im shaking and crying. I still think about what happened every day

Izzy is doing so well now and thriving. She is monitored and has an MRI every nine months. As the tumour is still there, it is possible that she will need more chemotherapy, but it is stable now.

Five years on, even writing this now, Im shaking and crying. I still think about what happened every day.

What is a brain tumour?

A tumour is an abnormal group of cells forming a lump, that can be benign or cancerous. This is confirmed by removing a piece of the tumour by way of biopsy and examining it in a laboratory. The name given to a tumour depends on the exact type of cell that grew out of control initially.

How common are brain tumours in young people? Latest figures from the National Cancer Registry (2020-2022) show that there are approximately 65 children and young people diagnosed with a brain or other central nervous system (CNS) tumour each year in Ireland.

What causes a brain tumour?

The cause of a childhood brain tumour is unknown in the majority of cases. There are a small number of children who have a genetic predisposition to developing a tumour, having conditions such as neurofibromatosis, tuberous sclerosis or Li-Fraumeni syndrome.

What are the possible symptoms of a brain tumour in children and teenagers?

The first signs of a brain tumour depend on many factors including the precise location of the tumour, the structures the tumour is putting pressure on, and the age of the child.

Symptoms include persistent vomiting, recurring headache, problems with balance and co-ordination, behaviour change, fits or seizures, abnormal eye movements, blurred or double vision/loss of vision, and a wry or stiff neck/head tilt. In babies, there may be increasing head circumference, while other children may experience early, delayed or arrested puberty.

How are tumours treated?

Each patient is unique and so even the same type of tumour can affect young people in different ways. Therefore, each childs treatment plan is unique to them but based on the standard of care that maximises chances of cure and minimises chances of long-term effects. Treatment may involve surgery, radiotherapy, chemotherapy, molecular targeted therapy or a combination of all of these.

Brain Tumour Ireland has published a guide on understanding and spotting the signs and symptoms of brain tumours in children and teenagers. To download the guide, visit www.braintumourireland.com
The colour combo is the new red and green  heres how to make it work in your home

The colour combo you never knew you needed, plum and pine is an elegant twist on the seasons red and green that feels more tailored to a modern celebration. In recent years, purple has felt a bit risky, a touch too bold or too dark perhaps, but moody plum meeting cool, fresh-forest pine replaces that classic red and green palette and the dominant purple with a softer and more sophisticated scheme.

British designer Rose Uniacke (responsible for transforming the Beckhams Holland Park house) has described plum as the new neutral for rooms with confidence. It holds warmth without being saccharine and complements the green tones that have dominated interiors for several years.

Rug, 1,595, finnishdesignshop.com

Lamp, 99, salternativefurniture.com

Pine, meanwhile, continues to be a favourite for cabinetry, upholstery, lamps, accessories and painted panelling, grounding a space with organic calm. When the two meet, they create a palette thats rich but balanced. The key is to let one hue lead while the other acts as a foil and layer in texture.

Historically, both hues carry aristocratic associations. Pine green appeared in Victorian drawing rooms, often paired with dark woods and leather, while plum was favoured in Regency and Edwardian rooms for its regal depth.

Designers today are reclaiming that heritage but stripping away the heaviness. Instead of the dark, clubby feel, the look now leans tactile and layered: velvet with linen, matte paint with brushed brass, deep colour offset by soft neutrals.

Pols Potten stool, 265.99, available from connox.com

Green and gold cutlery set, 85, interiorsatelier.ie

The Fife Arms in Scotland, designed by Russell Sage Studio, layers tartan greens and plummy velvets, for example, beneath antler chandeliers and art-filled walls. The result is grand yet deeply comforting.

In Paris, Le Bristols bar uses jewel-toned upholstery  pine velvet banquettes against aubergine drapery, and The Ned in London reimagines heritage tones for a contemporary clientele: pine green leather seating, plum-hued carpets, brass detailing and a soft amber glow which feels both nostalgic and refined.

Brands such as Soho Home and Anthropologie have leaned into these tones this season. Think velvet sofas in forest hues, ribbed glassware tinted berry-plum, or dinnerware in fig and olive glazes.

Conversation seat, from 2,888, ligne-roset-dublin.ie

Cushion, 99, thatcooliving.com

Farrow & Balls Bancha and Paint & Paper Librarys Mulberry Red are a painterly pairing on cabinetry or joinery, they create depth without drama, while Annie Sloans Tyrian Plum is mellow and sophisticated and will flatter north-facing rooms and intimate spaces like dining rooms and bedrooms.

Ligne Rosets Hemicycle Vida conversation sofa is a sleek and sophisticated twist on the modern sofa and perfect for a festive get-together. Pair it with John Hanlys woollen throw in forest green and That Cool Livings cushions in mixed plum and green lines to introduce subtle contrast.

John Hanly throw, 160, available from irishdesignshop.com

Radicchio leaf plate, 100.95, maisonflaneur.com

Candlestick, 79, hubsch-interior.com

For smaller accents, Pols Pottens potted green boucle stool adds some sculptural softness along with a Hubsch candlestick in plum and green glass.

Getting just the right balance of lighting is key for this time of year so consider mixing low level lighting with candlelight. The Alexis table lamp in plum velvet is just the right mix of elegance and playfulness for the Christmas season without feeling overtly feminine or theatrical. If you prefer something more clean and contemporary &Traditions Como rechargeable lamp is a great mood light that comes in both plum and green.

For the table, layer in Maison Flaneurs colourful plates: plum and green cabbageware and chequered platters with coloured glassware from Lingby Glas, green and gold cutlery from Interiors Atelier and a green lacquered tray from Arket.

Ultimately, plum and pine bridge the gap between seasonal and enduring. Theyre rich enough for the festive season, yet elegant enough to carry through the rest of the year, equally at home in a Scottish lodge, a New York townhouse and your living room.
"The idea of having someone in Aras an Uachtarain who could barely string a cupla focail together was, and still is, ludicrous to me. Thats an insult to the office, and to the island it represents." President Catherine Connolly at the Aras an Uachtarain. Photo: Tony Maxwell / Maxwells.

I am often left scratching my head in confusion over some of the opinions held by people in this fine country of ours, most frequently when in relation to the Irish language. There are so many contradictions, such rampant self-shaming, and a severe under-appreciation of the beauty of it. This was made particularly evident during President Catherine Connollys campaign and inauguration.

A woman who included Gaeilge and Gaeilgoirs in all of her messaging, Connolly has announced intentions to make Irish the working language of the Aras, rather than having it spoken quietly in the corner. For some reason, this has caused an echo of the criticism she and her supporters received during the campaign: that this is an elitist move, one that shuns non-Irish-speaking Irish people.
Modern politics moves at such a pace that by the time news of Paschal Donohoes exit was confirmed, people were already asking whos next?

Tanaiste and Fine Gael leader Simon Harris had the answer: himself. He was determined not to leave any room for speculation in the wake of the shock announcement by his finance minister.

There will be no pause in the momentum we must demonstrate in the business of government. There is always more to do, Mr Harris told the Dail.

Voters will agree that this government has much more to do to live up to the promises that were being made this time last year as we prepared for the general election.

That election came on the back of a massive giveaway budget while Mr Donohoes final effort a few weeks ago was seen as leaving workers short changed.

After announcing his departure for the World Bank, Mr Donohoe paused to reflect on his 20 years as a public representative.

In James Boswells Life of Samuel Johnson, it is noted: The Irish are not in a conspiracy to cheat the world by false representations of the merits of their countrymen. No, Sir; the Irish are a fair people  they never speak well of one another. Some might make an exception for Mr Donohoe.

A scrupulous and hard-working minister, he remained crisply efficient, no matter what the crisis.

His weight of experience and depth of ability would be a loss to any government. Those skills will now be handsomely rewarded as he triples his salary in his new US-based post and will enjoy a tax-free income.

He burnished his reputation in Brussels where he served three terms as Eurogroup president. His appointment was heralded as a singular honour.

You simply cannot escape responsibility for a disastrous, ongoing housing and homelessness crisis

But others may take a less positive view. After all, there is a housing crisis to which a 28bn fix has been committed. We also have a report from Depaul, showing unprecedented numbers of middle-income earners reaching out for help.

Mr Donohoes last budget was said to be strongly weighted towards business, while many workers felt they ought to have received some kind of tax breaks, given cost-of-living pressures. Mr Donohoe acknowledged that there was more to do when it comes to building houses.

People Before Profits Richard Boyd Barrett wished him well, but also said: You simply cannot escape responsibility for a disastrous, ongoing housing and homelessness crisis that has plunged so many people into the misery of emergency accommodation.

While Mr Donohoe has done his bit, there is unquestionably a whole lot more to be done.

His departure prompted a cabinet shake-up that resulted in Hildegarde Naughton becoming the new Education and Youth Minister and Helen McEntee moving to Foreign Affairs and Defence (the first female minister to hold those posts). Welcoming the improvement in gender balance, Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns noted it was about time, and added: Infamously, earlier this year, more men named James were appointed to the Cabinet than women.

A door closes on one political career and a glass ceiling cracks for another.
Carlow music producer who helps select Grammy award winners is praised by Michael D Higgins

Brian Sheil was also commended by the former president for stepping into the world of forensic science by using his audio engineering expertise to detect fake audio and media

Carlow music producer Brian Sheil has been praised by former president of Ireland Michael D Higgins for his work with the Recording Academy selecting GRAMMY winners and his research into synthetic audio

Aisling Bolton-Dowling Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 12:00

A Carlow man who was invited to join the Recording Academy in the US, granting him a direct role in selecting Grammy award winners each year has been praised by the former president of Ireland, Michael D Higgins.
West Cork councillors have called for an early warning system to let the people of Bantry know in advance when flooding is expected. The town was hit again during the heavy rain last week with properties flooded and the fire service having to pump water off the streets.

At this weeks meeting of the Western Divisional Committee of Cork County Council, Cllr John Collins put forward a motion calling for Bantry to get an early warning and communication system for flooding similar to the one Bandon had before flood relief works were completed there.

Speaking about the Bandon system, Cllr Collins said it consisted of measurement sticks placed in the river in several locations that signalled by colour coding the rising height of the river during periods of heavy rain.

It would alert people to the situation if it was getting worse. I spoke with two people that had businesses in the town in those days and they said to me that it was very, very helpful because at least you had some idea what was happening, the Independent Ireland councillor said.

The motion was supported by Cllr Danny Collins who said, last Tuesday morning week, when I walked the town, a number of businesses said to me, Danny, we had no warning about it. People didn't know what was happening. I would hope we could look at a similar system for the businesses and residents of Bantry. I've been asked can we get this by businesses in town and by the Bantry Business Association.

Cllr Caroline Cronin also supported the motion. I know that there is a gauge on the mill wheel of the library, but I don't know who is actually getting alerted to it. So if the alert system could be rolled out to the businesses and the residents I think it would be fantastic. There could be 10, 12 more floods between this and the culvert [flood relief work] being done so something has to be done in the interim, the Fine Gael councillor said.

Senior engineer with Cork County Council, Catherine Murphy, responded that the councils operations teams already monitor tidal, river and rainfall gauges but developing an early flood warning system for Bantry would be challenging due to the nature of the catchment, which is steeply sloping and prone to rapid onset of flooding. Bantry is also vulnerable to flooding from rainfall, coastal and river flooding.

However, she said the council will engage with the OPW and Met Eireann to review the existing gauging infrastructure in Bantry and identify if additional stations would allow for the development of a meaningful flood warning system to predict flood events and issue timely alerts to residents.

The councillors were given an update on two flood relief schemes currently being progressed in Bantry. The main scheme, which has an estimated construction budget of 6.7m and will consist of walls, embankments and tidal flood defences, has now identified an emerging preferred option with a public participation day scheduled for December 10. Construction on the smaller Bantry Mill Culvert upgrade project is forecast to begin in the second quarter of 2027.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
Farmers are afraid of cleaning out waterways on their land in case they are prosecuted by state bodies even though the work is aimed at preventing flooding, West Cork councillors have said.

Speaking at this weeks meeting of the Western Divisional Committee of Cork County Council, Cllr John Michael Foley said that most farmers are more than willing to clear drains and streams but they're afraid to do so because of Inland Fisheries Ireland, they're afraid that their business will be shut down as a result of clearing waterways.

The councillors were discussing last weeks flooding in parts of West Cork where places such as Bantry, Ballylickey and Ardcahan Bridge were inundated once again after heavy rainfall.

Cllr Foley said: The issue occurs upstream when branches of trees, vegetation, and even trees are falling into the streams, going downstream and blocking the eye of the bridge. Debris builds up, then the branches hold it, and then the eye is blocked after a while. If we go back a number of years, all farmers were able to clear the streams on their own land.

The councillor for the Bandon-Kinsale municipal district said that the OPW and Inland Fisheries Ireland need to find a window in the summertime when farmers are allowed to clear streams, rivers and drains on their land without fear of being prosecuted on environmental grounds.

Cllr Finbarr Harrington agreed, saying the biggest contributor to flooding is the fact that our streams and rivers and culverts are not being cleaned. The biggest problem that farmers and landowners face is they know it is their obligation but the problem is when some farmers do what they're supposed to do they get prosecuted. So we've seen cases up the country especially where farmers have been fined up to 10,000 for destroying the habitat.

But what they were doing is what they were supposed to do, which was clean the trees and clean the river and let the water flow. So I think this is the big problem. There's huge confusion out there and there's huge fear in landowners that if they do this, they will be prosecuted, the Adrigole councillor said.

Cllr Daniel Sexton said: The guidelines out there aren't very clear and some farmers are afraid of their life to go near a river in case it's going to cause impact for them on their payments and so on. We need proper guidelines from all the departments.

Senior engineer with Cork County Council, Catherine Murphy, responded that: Dredging is something that's getting more and more difficult due to the environmental factors. If you're in an SAC [Special Area of Conservation] it gets more complex again. She said that the IFI does allow rivers to be cleared of dry gravel between July and September: So it's gravels above the waterline which can be removed. And in general, you can't enter rivers outside that window.

Cllr Foley said that removing only dry gravel from the sides of the river means that effectively all youre doing is widening the stream. What we really need to do is deepen it to take the water because widening it is fine but it's actually just spreading the problem.

Councillors across county Cork have long argued that not dredging streams and rivers is contributing to flooding. The authorities say that dredging endangers the freshwater pearl mussel, which is a protected species.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
Brendan Courtney has said he misses the humour of his late father every day as he plunged into freezing waters in Sandycove to launch a major fundraising campaign for the Irish Heart Foundation.

The TV presenter and fashion designer lost his father, Frank, to a stroke in 2017.

Stripping off for an icy sea swim, Courtney said the charitys work is personal to him, not only because of his fathers death, but because he manages his own high blood pressure.

My father was a very funny man with a great sense of humour and while the stroke slowed him down, it didnt take his sense of fun, and I miss that every day, he said.

Courtney braved the Irish Sea to promote the Irish Heart Foundations 12 Dips in December challenge, supported by Daybreak, which calls on people across Dublin to take 12 dips  in open water, a pool, or even an ice bath  throughout the month.

I swim most days, it is such a leveller, it brings you right into your body and holds you in the present, it is also great for your immune system and general mental health, he said.

Broadcaster Brendan Courtney, pictured with Janine Watson of Musgrave Wholesale Partners, left, and Emma Balmaine, CEO, Irish Heart Foundation.

You never regret a sea swim, especially when its about raising awareness to help save peoples lives.

The charity is asking people to register and begin fundraising at its dedicated online platform, where participants log each of their 12 dips.

Funds raised will support efforts to prevent heart disease and stroke and increase cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training across the country.

Janine Watson, Head of Retail Sales with Musgrave Wholesale Partners, operators of the Daybreak retail franchise, said the company is pleased to support the initiative.

At Daybreak, were incredibly proud to support the Irish Heart Foundations 12 Dips in December challenge, she said.

Community is at the heart of everything we do, and this initiative is a fantastic way to bring our retailers and their teams together across Ireland, have some fun, and raise vital funds for heart health.

Were excited to see the impact we can make by rallying local communities around such an important cause.

Irish Heart Foundation CEO Emma Balmaine said the fundraising drive plays a crucial role in keeping services running.

In addition, they support patient services such as counselling and our Nurse Support Line, advocacy and health promotion work, she said.

Were hugely grateful to Daybreak for their support and to all those who are getting involved; every dip makes a difference!
Eight councillors voted against a new developlment from the energy provider citing delays in maintaining public lighting

Eight south Dublin councillors voted against a new ESB substation in the county to send a message to the energy provider after they said the maintenance of traffic and street lights in their areas were allegedly delayed for over a year.

South Dublin County Council (SDCC) introduced a report at a meeting this month to facilitate power supply to Grange Castle West Business Park where the ESB have made an application to acquire a five square metre plot for a substation.

Fine Gael councillor for Firhouse-Bohernabreena Brian Lawlor asked the management to reach an agreement with the ESB before the proposal was allowed to move forward.

I cant support this one today Im not against the ESB or the development at Grange Castle  us councillors on the ground know that we dont get proper service to the level agreed to by the ESB, he said.

There were 26 traffic lights put up out there and it took some of them 18 months to turn them on. I see that our streetlights are not being dealt with adequately enough  Id like to send a soft message to the ESB to say we need a change.

I call for management to come back with a service level agreement - to say that if a traffic light or street light is put up, that it will be turned on within 8 weeks. We refuse to support anything to do with the ESB until we see this support.

Director of Economic Development for SDCC Jason Frehill said that the substation could be a significant development in south Dublin.

Large scale buildings are being developed in the area and it could lead to many jobs  up to 1000 now, he explained.

"To power these developments, will need more substations  this is the first of many. The management are supportive of it, it is needed to meet our targets.

Fine Gael councillor for Lucan, Caroline Brady, also voted against the proposal.

Were in a shocking situation If we have to send messages to the ESB  I could give you a list of the lighting Ive tired to have put in place over the last year and they failed on every occasion, said Cllr Brady.

When were spending all this money on infrastructure, why are we not able to get from them a timeline to see when it will be completed.

Fianna Fail councillor for Firhouse-Bohernabreena Cllr Emma Murphy said she was not in favour of delaying the project.

Cant we be proactive, not reactive and ask for management to get in touch with ESB Networks (ESBN) who are responsible for us having our traffic lights, and get them in front of us? she asked.

The motion for the substation was passed at the end of the discussion with 25 councillors voting in favour of it and eight councillors voting against the project.

"For the majority of public lighting faults, ESB Networks crew involvement is not necessary for repair work to proceed, said a spokesperson from the ESB.

"Where our attendance is requested, the ESBN prioritises public safety and ensures crews are made available accordingly.

However, the broader maintenance and repair of public lighting remains the responsibility of the local authority and their appointed contractors.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Fog, mist and waterlogged buses cause men to miss court

It was a brief court sitting at Tralee District Court before Judge David Waters last Wednesday.

David Lobe (51) of Clonville, Oakpark Road, Tralee was ordered to donate 300 to The Grove Addiction Treatment Centre for possession of cocaine valued at 14. Hes very contrite about the whole thing, said solicitor Pat Mann.

Jonathan OGorman (40) of Chapel Street, Tralee was fined 250 after pleading guilty to a charge of intoxication to such an extent that might endanger himself or others. On September 26, Mr OGorman was unable to stand steadily, the court heard. He was a little bit bananas on this occasion judge, said his solicitor. He apologises.

Ivan Dvizov (56) of Station House, Blennerville was fined 250 for public intoxication after he was found asleep on a park bench in The Square, Tralee. Thats accepted judge, said his solicitor. He apologises and he has pleaded guilty.

A speeding ticket got dismissed when a defendant argued his fixed charge notice went to the wrong address. A garda told the court Bernard McKenna of Sackville, Ardfert was caught driving 70kph in a 50kph in Mounthawk on January 18, 2025. The court heard he told the garda his address was Knockanish, Tralee but the fine went to his listed address in Sackville and he never received the notice.

Two men struggling to reach Tralee during stormy weather had bench warrants issued for failure to appear.

Minutes after court ended, Abraham Harazi (21) of The Square, Abbeyfeale entered the courtroom. The judge was still present. I did get the earliest bus, explained Mr Harazi, who faced a public order charge. There was a lot of fog and mist in Abbeyfeale.

Adeel Nawaz (20), of 26 Castletreasure Grove, Castlestreasure, Cork arrived too late altogether. But Judge Waters cancelled his bench warrant the next day at Cahersiveen District Court when his solicitor explained the Cork bus was water logged on the way to Tralee.

Both cases were adjourned to November 26.

Funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
2025 Roses and Escorts at the top of Carrauntoohil during Movember fundraiser

Some of this years Roses joined their escorts on a windy climb to the summit of the tallest mountain in Ireland on Saturday to raise funds for Movember.

The leading charity is known for highlighting that mens health is not just a male issue but a societal one impacting families, friends, and the wider community that support them.
Taoiseach Micheal Martin leads tribute to inspirational hotelier

Taoiseach Micheal Martin is welcomed to the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary Celebration in Killarney on Monday by Proprietor Bernadette Randles, along with family members, from left, David, Rosaleen, Susan and Tom Randles. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were from left, Tom Randles and his father-in-law Tomas Garvey. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were from left, Michael Finn, Pat Moynihan, Siobhan Moynihan, Eileen Finn, Susan Randles, Bernadette Randles, Luke Casey , Peggy McCarthy, Tom Randles and Deputy Mayor of Kerry Cllr Marie Moloney. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were An Taoiseach Micheal Martin, with from left, Cllr Tommy Cahill, Michael Cahill, TD, Senator Mark Daly, Dave, Bernadette, Rosaleen, Susan and Tom Randles, Minister Norma Foley, Minister Michael Healy-Rae and Cllr Maura Healy-Rae and Cllr Danny Healy-Rae. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were from left, Tom Randles, Pat Chawke, Becky Hardgrove, Brian lawlor, Niamh O'Shea, Bernadette Randles, Brian Bowler, Mark Bowe and John O'Donoghue. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were from left, Tom, Susan, Bernadette, Rosaleen and David Randles, Maura Randles-Murphy and at back are, Rachel Randles, Aileen Randles Ciara Randles, Harry Randles, Tara Casey, Conor Randles, Con Lenihan, Gavin White, Luke Casey, Mike Lenihan Vincent Casey, Lee Lenihan and Didgie O'Connor. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Pictured at the Dromhall Hotel, 60th Anniversary in Killarney on Monday were from left, Brian Lawlor, Chairman, Kerry Branch, IHF, Bernadette Randles, Proprietor, Mark Scally, Margaret Scally, Gemma Ring and Paul O'Neill. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Taoiseach Micheal Martin unveils a portrait of the late Kay Randles, who along with her husband Neil opened the Dromhall Hotel on Muckross Road, Killarney in 1965 and celebrated the 60th Anniversary on Monday. Also in photo are family members, Tom, Bernadette, David, Susan and Rosaleen Randles, Cathaoirleach of the Seanad, Mary Daly, Minister Norma Foley, Minister Michael Healy-Rae, Deputy Mayor of Kerry Cllr Marie Moloney, Cathaoirleach of Killarney MD Martin O'Grady and guests. Photo by Don MacMonagle

Taoiseach Micheal Martin unveils a portrait of the late Kay Randles, who along with her husband Neil opened the Dromhall Hotel on Muckross Road, Killarney in 1965 and celebrated the 60th Anniversary on Monday. Also in photo are family members, from left, Tom, Bernadette, David, Susan and Rosaleen Randles. Photo by Don MacMonagle

A tribute to a remarkable Kerry businesswoman, who was one of the inspirational personalities in the Kerry and the Irish hotel industry, has been unveiled by Taoiseach Micheal Martin.

He marked the 60th anniversary of the busy Dromhall Hotel in Killarney by unveiling a framed portrait of the late Kay Randles who, with her late husband Neil, founded the business on Muckross Road in 1965.

The hotel is now run by the second generation of the Randles family and proprietor, Bernadette Randles, described it as a very proud day for everybody associated with the company over the past six decades.

Close on 150 guests, including some of the hotels first employees, attended the landmark celebration on Monday and the Taoiseach was joined by Ministers Norma Foley and Michael Healy-Rae, Deputy Michael Cahill, Cathaoirleach of Killarney MD, Cllr Martin Grady and the Deputy Mayor of Kerry Cllr Marie Moloney.

This is a very special day for us  a day to celebrate 60 years in business, a milestone that began as nothing more than a dream in the mind and heart of our mother, Kay Randles, back in 1965, Bernadette said.

Today is about that dream  her dream  and about the remarkable woman who turned it into a legacy.

We are deeply grateful that the Taoiseach will honour our mothers impact, not just on our family, but on the town of Killarney and the wider world of tourism, she added.

Bernadette described her mother as a woman ahead of her time.

For sixty years she poured her life, her energy and her love into building these hotels and businesses, all while raising six children.

She and my father, Neil, were married just 26 years when he passed away, suddenly, at the age of 50. And yet, for the next 38 years, without her best friend by her side, she led, she built, she worked, she raised us  and she never stopped, she said.

The Taoiseach said the story of the Randles family is very much the story of Killarney and it was an example of extraordinary entrepreneurial endeavour.

Killarney has a very unique sense of getting things done and it is the one location that knows how to do tourism. Its in your DNA, he said.

Theres something about the mindset of the community and the people of Killarney, like the Randles family, are just extraordinary.

Mr Martin said Kay Randles had demonstrated remarkable vision and determination throughout her life and she was like a spark that could never be dimmed.
A rare male Bufflehead was recorded on Lough Lein, Killarney National Park on Wednesday afternoon by Dr Tomas C. Kelly, right. Chatting with him is Chris Barron, Killarney National Park Education Centre. Photo by Valerie O'Sullivan.

A rare male Bufflehead was recorded on Lough Lein, Killarney National Park on Wednesday afternoon. Photo by Valerie O'Sullivan.

A rare male Bufflehead duck has been recorded on Lough Lein in Killarney National Park.

The Bufflehead is an extremely rare vagrant to Western Europe and is usually found in Canada and Alaska.

The male duck was spotted on Lough Lein on Wednesday afternoon by retired UCC lecturer Dr Tomas C Kelly.

National Parks and Wildlife Service Conservation Ranger, Padruig OSullivan, explained that the animal is not native to Kerry or Ireland and has very specific characteristics. There has only been a few sightings of the bird in Ireland.

"Their breeding habitat is ponds and lakes in Canada and Alaska. They normally winter in North America. The perky large-headed duck, makes a habit of ducking and diving under water continuously, leaving the bird observers wondering will it ever re-emerge and where? They are similar to the Goldeneyes as they nest in cavities."

The Bufflehead was first recorded in the Gearagh, Macroom, Cork in 1988. The second recorded Bufflehead was in Lough Atedaun, County Clare in 2007.

This latest discover on Wednesday, November 19 has updated on the National Biodiversity Data Centre to note the rare bird has now been sighted in Kerry in Killarney.

Local photographer Valerie OSullivan captured the unique sight in the surrounds of the park.
Julie Dowling and Mary Harty accept the award on behalf of AIM Centre

Sligos AIM Centre has been named the European Winner in the Supporting the Digital Transition category at the European Enterprise Promotion Awards (EEPA) 2025, held during the SME Assembly in Copenhagen, Denmark.

The recognition celebrates AIM Centres leadership in helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across Ireland embrace digital transformation - empowering them not only to adopt new technologies but to actively innovate, market, and grow their businesses through advanced digital tools and services.

Organised by the European Commission, the European Enterprise Promotion Awards recognise exceptional initiatives that promote entrepreneurship and support SMEs at local, regional, national, and European levels.

Since 2006, the EEPAs have highlighted hundreds of inspiring projects that contribute to economic growth and innovation across Europe.

To be named the European Winner in 2025 reflects AIM Centres continued commitment to building a digitally capable and competitive enterprise landscape in Ireland.

At the heart of Irelands northwest, AIM Centre provides mentoring, digital skills programmes, and innovation support to help SMEs adopt technologies such as artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics.

The Centre, at the Market Yard, Sligo works directly with businesses to turn digital ambition into real transformation - ensuring that digitalisation becomes an embedded, sustainable part of how enterprises grow and compete.

The EEPA jury recognised AIM Centres success in helping rural and regional businesses digitise their services, explore new markets, and connect with customers around the world.

In August this year, AIM Centre was named the National Winner in the same category, earning the honour of representing Ireland at the European finals.

Securing the European title places AIM Centre among Europes most impactful enterprise initiatives, showcasing how Irelands northwest has become a hub for digital innovation and collaboration.

Speaking about the win, Julie Dowling, CEO of AIM Centre, said: We are absolutely delighted and deeply honoured to be recognised at a European level for our work in supporting digital transformation among Irelands SMEs.

Digital transformation isnt just about technology - its about people, communities, and creating opportunities for sustainable growth. Were proud to help enterprises of all sizes and locations turn innovation into real, lasting impact.

AIM Centre extended its thanks to Sligo County Council for its continued support and collaboration throughout the awards process. The Centre also acknowledges its founding partners - Leitrim County Council, Atlantic Technological University, and Enterprise Ireland.
Ann Moylan, (Chief compliance and risk officer Arachas Corporate Brokers), cutting the ribbon on the new Arachas office at 4 Teeling Street, accompanied by Dermot Doherty (Managing Director, Western regions), Martin Higgins (Regional Director, Northwest) and Julie Galbraith (Chief Business Officer).

Arachas, Irelands largest nationwide insurance broker with over 750 employees, officially opened its new Sligo town office on 7th November.

The opening represents a key milestone in Arachas strategic expansion across the North West, where the company continues to build a strong local team of insurance specialists serving an ever-growing customer base.

The new Sligo office is located at 4 Teeling Street.

Sligo is a strategically important location for Arachas, serving a diverse customer base across farming, SME business, hospitality, construction and personal insurance lines.

The companys expanding local footprint mirrors the strong growth in insurance demand in the North West, particularly from the agricultural sector, which remains a cornerstone of the Sligo and North West of Ireland economy.

Over the past number of years, Arachas has strengthened its presence across Ireland through a series of acquisitions of quality local brokers, bringing deep regional expertise and long-standing customer relationships into the Arachas network.

The establishment of the new Sligo office ensures continued service excellence for these customers, delivered locally by a team that understands the needs of the community.

Commenting on the opening Martin Higgins, Regional Director, North West, said: This opening marks an important day for Arachas and for Sligo town.

 We are delighted to open our new office in the heart of the town and to invest in a location that is so deeply connected to its people, its businesses and its farming heritage.

This opening reflects our belief that local service, backed by national scale, is the best way to support communities across Ireland.

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony was attended by Arachas clients, partners and neighbouring businesses in Sligo and Arachas management, including Julie Galbraith, Arachas General Counsel and Chief Business Officer, Ann Moylan, Arachas Chief Risk and Compliance Officer and Dermott Doherty, MD, Arachas Western Regions.
Around the Districts

Mens Shed

Carnaleck Mens Shed is now up and running. A further gathering will take place this Wednesday, November 19, at 9 p.m. to finalise insurance and future meeting times and a programme of activities. There is now a core group of interested people but new members are always welcome. A fund is required to pay insurance, registration fees and establish a petty cash and each member is asked to contribute 50 to help establish this.

Music Night

The next music session will take place in the community centre on this Thursday, November 20, at 9 p.m. Note that from now on the dates may change each month but a session will take place each month. Anyone wishing to be included on a Whatsapp list to receive notifications, text 087 2512030.

Cafe Talk

Dennis McIntyre, a former Cloonacool native, will give a talk on his new book, part of My Heart Lies There, in the Mill Cafe on Friday, November 28, at 8 p.m. The book features memories of farming days in Cloonacool and the huge changes that have occurred in Ireland since the 1960s. The book is only available from Amazon.ie and is delivered in just a few days.

Childrens Burial Grounds

Dr Marion ODowd, ATU Sligo, will give a talk on cillini, entitled, Childrens Burial Grounds: Archaeology, Folklore, Memory, in the Mill Cafe, Cloonacool, on Friday, December 5, at 7 p.m. Her research area is recording the location of Cillini and the folklore surrounding them before it is lost.

2026 Calendar

The Mill Community has produced a 2026 calendar that is now for sale exclusively in the cafe (10 per copy). The theme of the calendar is Wild Flowers of the Ox Mountain, and is a great example of the beauty that surrounds us all in our community each day of the year. The cafe is open each weekend, Friday to Sunday, at the usual times.

Community Party

Save the date for the annual Cloonacool Christmas party which will take place in the community centre on Sunday, December 7. More details to follow, including booking information.

Notes

Please submit notes for inclusion to cloonacoolnotes@gmail.com by 6 p.m. on Thursday.

Enniscrone-Kilglass

Notes

Would you or your family, Send your news to the West Sligo Family Resource Centre before midday on Friday or call 096 37444 or email enniscronetourism3@gmail.com.

Tireragh Community Support Ltd

Christmas Fare and Free Santa Experience Sunday, December 7, 10.30 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Kilglass House F26H685, Market Stalls, Face Painting, storytelling, Marshmallow toasting, cake sale, refreshments, booking is essential. Text 083 4461322 to secure your slot, only 20 spaces left to see Santa. Book now to avoid disappointment. This is a free event, funded by Natalies Wishes be sure to come along and enjoy everything we have in store for you.

Condolences

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of the late Patricia (Dolly) Langan (nee Goodwin), Castletown, Corballa, Co. Sligo, peacefully at Ard Na Greine Nursing Home, Enniscrone surrounded by her family. Predeceased by her husband Martin, brothers Edward, John and Michael. Deeply mourned by her loving son Michael, daughter-in-law Catherine, grandchildren Thomas, Matthew, Darragh and Katie, brothers-in-law, sister-in-law, nephews, nieces, relatives, neighbours and a large circle of friends. May here gentle soul rest in peace.

Kilglass National School

Free Family event sponsored by the parents association Kilglass, Kilglass NS Lights up Sunday, November 30, at 1 p.m. Kids decorated tree light up, music, hot chocolate, tea, coffee and treats.

Enniscrone Indoor Market and social dancing

Save the date in your calendar and visit our Christmas market on sixth and December 13 and 20 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Lots of crafts, gifts ideas, delicious treats and more.

Kilglass Parish Community Centre

Open seven Days with access code for Hub users. Open for call in Inquiries Monday, Tuesdays 10.30 p.m. to 1 p.m. Wednesday and Thursdays from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. Located next door to the Church of the Holy Family Kilglass. Eircode: F26K20.

To book a hot desk/office space, go to the connected Hubs Website connectedhubs.ie and see: kilglassparishcommunitycentre.com.

Christmas Tree

The turning on of the lights for the Christmas Tree of remembrance will take place on Saturday, November 29. There will be Mass at 7 p.m. in the Church of the Holy Family, followed by a festive community gathering in the hub. Everyone is welcome:) Join us for tea, coffee, mulled wine, and mince pies as we come together as a community to celebrate and remember loved ones. Personalised Christmas Baubles will shortly be on sale from local shops and are available now online: buy.stripe.com/4gw17YbYA0XI6ZyeVi.

Yoga

Yoga continues every Tuesday Chair Yoga 11 a.m. Floor Yoga 7.30, to book Contact Ellie at 083 0256226. Our very Popular Rambling House takes place one Saturday every month see our Facebook page for details. Join us for Ceol, Caint agus Craic and of course the Cupan.

West Sligo Family Resource Centre

Suzies Snowman Craft Workshop on Monday, November 24, from 12 3 p.m., cost 10... Suzie will turn her hand in helping everyone make not one but two Snowmen, a table and window (for hanging up) Snowman for Christmas....always a fun and creative workshop. Wellness classes in November, Breathwork with Aisling on Thursday, November 20, at 7.30 p.m. just 5 per class

Fun Dance classes with Carmel every Friday from 11  midday... cost 8 per class

Free digital skills/beginner computer classes every Wednesday from 10 1 p.m. Gentle Yoga classes with Sophie on Wednesdays from seven 8 p.m., lovely relaxing gentle stretches and mindfulness/breathwork combined... beginner friendly class...just 8 per class... come and go as you please. For further information email events@westsligofrc.ie or call 096 37444.

AGM

West Sligo Forum Clg are holding their AGM on Wednesday, December 3, in Easkey Community Centre at 8 p.m.

Enniscrone and District Community Council

Structural Conservation Work on Enniscrone Castle has now been completed. The chimney tops reinstated, vegetation removed and wall tops capped, stonework secured and walls repointed, the undercut of the north wall rebuilt, window arches secured and oak lintels inserted, and the fireplace area reconstructed with a stone arch upon an oak timber beam.

This substantial work was only made possible through Community Monument Fund grants provided through the National Monuments Service, on behalf of the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage, and administered through Sligo County Councils Heritage Office. Plus the skills of our architect, archaeologist, structural engineer, contractor and stonemasons.

Enniscrone and District Community Development are most grateful for the funding, services and work undertaken on this project.

Our objectives were to make the castle ruins safe, to protect it from erosion and to safeguard it for future generations. Enniscrone Castle is an integral part of our local history and heritage of importance to our community and our many national and international visitors. The next steps will be to improve public access to the castle site and provide information on its history.

Gurteen

RECENT DEATH

The death took place at Sligo University Hospital on October 26 of Paddy Mulligan, Rathmadder, Gurteen. A very popular member of the community he was held in high esteem by all who knew him. He was predeacesed by his parents Martin and Bridget and his brothers Joe and Vincent. his remains reposed at ODowds Funeral Home, Gurteen on Monday evening with removal to St Patricks Church for prayers at 7 p.m. Mass of the Ressurection on Tuesday celebrated by parish priest Fr Joe Caulfield with burial afterwards in Gurteen Cemetery. He is survived by his sisters Bridie (Chicago) and Betty (Altanta) sisters  in  law Rita, Cuilmore and Letitia, Chicago, nephews, nieces.relatives, neighbours and many friends to whom sincere sympathy is extended. May he rest in Peace.

RECENT DEATH

The death took place at Sligo University Hospital on November 4 of John McDonagh, Cuilmore, Gurteen. News of his passing was received with great sadness in his native area and beyond where he was well-liked. A quiet, pleasant gentleman he will be missed by all who knew him. His remains reposed in ODowds Funeral Home on Thursday evening afterwards going to his brothers home in Cuilmore. His remains were removed to St Patricks Church on Friday morning for Mass of the Resurrection celebrated by parish priest Fr Joe Caulfield with burial following in Mount Irwin Cemetery. Sincere sympathy is extended to his sister Mary, husband Tommy McCarrick, son Enda daughter Fiona Marren ; brother Paddy and wife Mary and family Regina Lennon, Paul, Linda Scanlon and Catherina McHugh and brother James UK May John rest in Peace.

RECENT DEATH

The death took olace in Sligo University on November 5 of Paschall de Paor, of Waterford City, who lived at Greyfield and since March at Rathmadder Estate, Gurteen. He worked at the Coleman Centre. He is survived by his Mother Marie, sisters Claire, Susan, Marteen and Stephanie. Funeral Service in McGowans Funeral Home/Crematorium, Collooney on Saturday, November 8. May he rest in Peace.

RECENT DEATH

The death has taken place on November 8 of Peadar McDonagh, Kilfree Junction and Leixlip  a former member of Garda Siochana he is survived by his wife Mary, daughters Michelle, Elaine, Karen, son Damien brothers Matty, Pat and Sean, sister Freda Connaughton, to Helen  wife of the late Josie and to all their families. He will be buried in Gurteen Cemetery on this Tuesday at approximately 3.30 p.m. May he rest in Peace.

RECENT DEATH

The death has taken place at Nazareth Nursing Home, Sligo on November 6 of Maureen Fallon of Keash Road and formerly of Kilshavley. Funeral Mass was at Nazareth Home on Monday and burial aferwards in Gurteen Cemetery. May she rest in Peace.

RECENT DEATH

The death took place on November 9 at Nazareth House Nursing Home, Sligo of Tommy Doddy, Cuilmore, Gurteen and formerly of Ardrahen, Gurteen. Tommy was resident in the Nursing Home for a number of years. He was predeacesed by his parents Winifred and Michael, his brothers Dominic and Michael and sister Kathleen Dart. His remains reposed at ODowds Funeral, Gurteen on Tuesday evening last and were removed to the Chuch at 7 p.m. for prayers. Mass of the Ressurection on Wednesday with burial afterwards in Mount Irwin Cemetery. Tommy is sadly missed and fondly remembered by his niece Catherine Thompson in the UK extended family, neighbours and friendsto whom sincere sympathy is extended. May he rest in Peace.

GURTEEN TEXT ALERT

The AGM of Text Alert will be held in Gurteen Hall on Thursday night, November 20, at 8.30 p.m. They appeal for young people to come along.

GURTEEN CELTIC

The Gurteen Celtic lotto draw for November 2 wasnt won  numbers drawn were 1, 22, 26 and 27and the winner of the 50 was Yvonne Mullaney, Mahanagh. The lotto will be 3,800 on Sunday November16 in ODowdsBINGO:Bingo is held every Friday night in Gurteen Hall at 8 p.m.  jackpot of 1,900 on forty six calls on Friday night and the lotto jackpot will be 200.

MICHAEL ENGLISH IN CHURCH

Michael English will perform in concert in St Patricks Church, Gurteen on Sunday night, December 7. Enquires to Coleman Music Centre for tickets at 071 9182599 or email colemanirishmusic.com

CONCERT IN COLEMAN

The next concert in the Coleman Music Centre, Gurteen will be on Saturday, November 22, with the Collis and Kearins families celebrating the great Owenmore Ceili Band. This will be full house so early booking is advised. Show starts at 8 p.m. For more details. call 071 918.2599 or email colemanirishmusic.com
Newly appointed Minister of State ,Sligo/Leitrim TD Frank Feighan says he hopes to use his position as to drive much needed infrastructural change in the North West.

The Fine Gael TD said he was delighted to meet with An Tanaiste Simon Harris on Tuesday afternoon to be told he proposed to appoint him Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure.

I was honoured to accept this important portfolio and return as a Minister of State role within the coalition government.

I now look forward to driving the programme for government under the headings of public procurement, digitalisation and eGovernment. In particular I look forward to achieving better public services, which is public sectors commitment to working together to provide inclusive, high quality and integrated services that meet peoples needs and improve their lives.

I look forward to implementing a number of key elements on the programme for government which included ensuring the integration of digital services across government departments and the establishment of a single digital unit to enhance the delivery of public services online.

It is vital to support the work of the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) to provide critical economic and value-for-money analysis

.  Review the public procurement process to make it more transparent and work to ensure greater participation from SMEs in Ireland in the procurement process.

 Deliver necessary improvements in how government departments report capital spending on an annual basis to ensure greater transparency and oversight of expenditure on a regional basis. Continue to support external oversight of the National Development Plan and ensure the Office of Public Works (OPW) and its structures deliver best value for money outcomes on all projects.

I am proud to represent the people of Sligo. Leitrim and South Donegal, I received an enhanced mandate back in 2024 to continue to deliver for the people of this region.

I will continue to do that with focus and energy, as a Minister in Government and in the department of public expenditure I will continue to highlight the much-needed infrastructural improvements for the North West region and hopefully I can do more to deliver those ambitions for the region, concluded Minister Feighan.
Uisce Eireanns Iarla Moran and Clinton Morrow pictured at Sligo University Hospital as part of the collaboration between Uisce Eireann, Clean Coasts and Sligo University Hospital to reduce the amount of sanitary waste being flushed down toilets on the hospital campus.

Uisce Eireann and Clean Coasts have partnered with ATU Sligo and Sligo University Hospital to promote the Think Before You Flush campaign, reminding everyone that what goes down the toilet matters.

This year, the campaign has focused on building partnerships with universities and hospitals to tackle waste disposal habits that impact water quality. In Sligo, Clean Coasts has worked closely with ATU Sligo and Sligo University Hospital to raise awareness and inspire action. From campus events to beach cleans, these collaborations are helping to create a culture of environmental responsibility.

These collaborations have come to life through beach cleans at Streedagh and marram grass planting at Strandhill, connecting students with their local environment while combating erosion and plastic pollution; awareness activities at ATU Sligos Clubs & Societies Fair as well as posters across campus toilets reinforcing the message of responsible waste disposal; and support from Sligo University Hospital to reduce sanitary waste being flushed down toilets.

Nuala Woods, Head of Wastewater Operations at Uisce Eireann explained: We are delighted to continue our partnership with Clean Coasts and collaborate with Sligo ATU and Sligo University Hospital to shine a light on the link between what you flush down the toilet can end up on your local beach. World Toilet Day is a timely reminder of the importance of responsible waste disposal. At Uisce Eireann, we work every day to protect water quality and ensure our infrastructure can cope, but we need the publics help. Simple changes in habits can make a big difference in safeguarding our rivers, lakes, and seas.

Earlier this year, The Think Before You Flush campaign collaborated with Sligo University Hospital to educate visitors and staff at the hospital on the only three items that should ever be flushed down the toilet. Newly designed posters were hung in toilet cubicles across the hospital, letting everyone know you should only flush pee, poo and paper. All other items should go in the bin.

Patrick Cross, Think Before You Pour Campaign Officer at Clean Coasts said: As part of our campaign activities in 2025 we have placed a special focus on universities involved in the Green Campus programme that also have university hospitals: ATU Sligo, Trinity Dublin, UCC Cork. Having collaborated with Sligo University Hospital in Spring on a campaign to reduce the amount of sanitary waste being flushed down toilets at the institution, we were delighted to be offered support by the wonderful staff at ATU Sligo. These types of collaborations are essential to keep improving waste management practices in Ireland and we are very grateful to the staff at Sligo University Hospital and ATU Sligo for endorsing the campaign.

Beth Brown, PhD student at Sligo ATU researching water quality and water sports, commended the efforts of Uisce Eireann and Clean Coasts in highlighting the importance of the campaign to students. These activities have provided opportunities for students to connect with the beautiful natural environment surrounding our campus, while contributing to its protection from erosion, plastic pollution, and other human impacts.

Whether it was tackling litter, tampons, or fatbergs, I hope our activities encouraged more mindful habits around waste disposal - prompting collective care and action to protect the health of our waters. While water pollution isnt an individual problem, I believe our collaborative efforts to share knowledge, raise awareness, and take action have the potential to prompt a collective responsibility for environmental protection. I look forward to continuing to support Clean Coasts and Uisce Eireann in their campaign  both at ATU and across the wider community, she added.
Tipperarys policing model is under scrutiny as a local councillor warns it is failing the county, calling for more gardai and a major operational review.

Independent councillor John OHeney said that the Clare/Tipperary Divisional Area is an unmitigated disaster, and has said that the policing of Tipperary is diminished because of it.

This comes as just one new garda will be allocated to Tipperary from intake 251, the latest cohort to graduate from the Garda Training College in Templemore. This figure was described as disappointing by the local councillor.

Two gardai have been allocated to the Tipperary/Clare Division, with one going to Clonmel, while the other will be based in Ennis.

"The many excellent gardai we already have in the area need more support, he said.

Cllr OHeney said that gardai are less able to do their jobs now than they were a decade ago.

"The current Garda Divisional Operational Model in the Tipperary/Clare Division is simply not working. What we are seeing on the ground is a diminished policing service compared to ten years ago.

"Basic garda services are now being maintained only through overtime, and that is neither sustainable nor fair on the members of An Garda Siochana who are doing their best under impossible pressures, Cllr OHeney hit out.

The division as its currently set out is too big of an area to effectively police, the Tipperary councillor said, pointing to other areas where divisions have been reverted.

"Carrick-on-Suir to the Cliffs of Moher is far too large an area to be effectively managed under one model. Other regions, Carlow, Kildare, Laois, and Offaly, have already rowed back on similar models after they failed to deliver. Yet, Tipperary remains stuck with a system that is clearly not fit for purpose, Cllr OHeney said.

Tipperary needs more gardai on the ground, according to the independent councillor, who said that the county deserves better.

"Tipperarys enormous contribution to national policing, particularly through the Garda Training College in Templemore, has gone unrecognised. This county deserves better.

"We urgently need more gardai and more community gardai on the ground in Tipperary. Community policing is the backbone of public trust and safety, and right now it is simply not possible for our local members to do the proactive, relationship-building work that keeps communities safe and reassured, he added.

Despite the fact that Irelands population is growing, the policing is going backwards, Cllr OHeney said, adding that visibility needs to be to the heart of policing.

"The official crime figures do not reflect reality. Many people are no longer reporting crimes because they have lost confidence in the system. This has a consequential impact on safety, wellbeing, and community trust.

Low garda numbers are weakening our emergency response capability, and gardai themselves know that the current model is failing them, Cllr OHeney said.

"I am calling on the new Garda Commissioner to order an immediate review of the Divisional Operational Model in the Tipperary/Clare area. Tipperary deserves a properly resourced policing service, the independent councillor added.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
Mallin Street in Wexford town is to reopen to traffic during business hours after the local council confirmed it would not be extending Its application to keep it closed, Currently the street is closed from the hours of 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. to facilitate outdoor dining at the cafes and restaurants located in the area.

However, following the decision to turn the nearby John Street into a one-way system, there have been repeated calls to reopen Mallin St to provide emergency services with an alternative route to and from Wexford General Hospital.

At the November meeting of the Wexford Borough District (WBD) senior engineer Lar Lett said it was his intention to reopen the street in January of next year.

Mallin Street had been closed during business hours under Section 75 of the Roads Act which allows a local authority to temporarily close a road, said Mr Lett. That license expires on December 31 of this year and I dont intend to extend it. The intention is to open up the street again."

"I will engage with the businesses which operate in the area but I have no intention of renewing the license there. By opening the street it will increase access to the southern end of the town and help redistribute traffic using the one-way system on John Street.

The closure of Mallin Street has been a contentious one over the last couple of years. In May, the closure was once again raised in relation to the councils blanket ban on advertising sandwich boards and bollard sleeves.

Liam OGrady of Be Pierced on Mallin Street says that the local authority had already taken customers away from his business with the decision to pedestrianise the street during the day, a move that he had initially objected to.

"The issue I have is that my street here is actually closed off to traffic. Nobody can drive up past my shop. That wasnt always the case, they closed it off a couple of years ago, he said.

"I asked them not to do it because we were getting a lot less traffic down this way anyway since the Bullring became one-way. You cant get down the town this way any more.

As a result, Liam says that his business has suffered from a lack of visibility.

"Now people cant drive up past my shop, they cant see it, they dont know Im there, he said. These are measures they (the council) brought in themselves that have actually impeded me getting customers into my shop. That sign there is all that I have.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme.
EcoTrail Wicklow, the trail-running event which this year saw a record-breaking 1,550 finishers across five distances get over the line this year, has received a significant funding boost of 90,000 as it looks ahead to 2026 and its sixth outing.

The funding was announced by Tourism Minister Peter Burke as part of the Strategic Festival Tourism Portfolio, which will provide funding to for 38 festivals across the country over the coming three years.

Welcoming the news for what has become a major fixture on the sporting calendar for Wicklow, Tanaiste Simon Harris said: I am delighted to confirm that the Wicklow Eco Trail Festival, a trail-running event promoting sustainability in Wicklow will benefit from Failte Ireland funding amounting to 90,000.

Even better is that this funding will be an annual grant this year and for the next two years, allowing the profile of the festival to be built and grown over the coming period, providing key support to the local economy and cementing the festival into the calendar of key annual events.

This government investment in authentic, local tourism will attract both local and international visitors to Wicklow to stay overnight and enjoy what we have to offer, with a focus on festivals held outside the summer season when the sector is usually quieter. Thirty-eight festivals are being funded throughout the country, with a total investment of 3.9m.

This investment will not only showcase Irelands rich culture and creativity but will also deliver real economic benefits for communities and our SMEs across the country. By attracting visitors from home and abroad, these events will help to strengthen local businesses, support the 210,000 tourism jobs in our economy and enhance the competitiveness of our destinations.

EcoTrail benefits from both private and public funding, and is supported by Failte Ireland and Wicklow Tourism, with Wicklow Wolf and Nobo as the official event partners this year. Both Irish brands share EcoTrails vision for sustainability and clean, eco-friendly products, making them natural collaborators for an event that celebrates running in harmony with nature.

The event in September cemented its reputation as Irelands premier trail running event, with over 1,550 finishers from all 32 counties of Ireland and athletes from 50 different nationalities taking part, showcasing the events growing international profile. Participants ranged in age from 17 to 79 years old, underlining EcoTrail Wicklows inclusive nature, welcoming everyone from elite athletes chasing podiums to first-time trail runners embracing adventure.

Commenting on the funding package, event organiser Sliabh Wells of the Bear Group, said: We are thrilled to have received this funding for the next three years. It has been a major factor in the events success to date and will help us continue to grow.

"This support enables us to promote the event to an international audience and showcase everything that Bray  and the wider Wicklow area  has to offer. We would like to extend our sincere thanks to Failte Ireland for their generous support, it is greatly appreciated.

Fred Verdier, tourism officer at Wicklow County Council said: Over the past years, EcoTrail Wicklow has proven a fantastic brochure for the county showcasing our fantastic outdoors playground. Thanks to Failte Irelands support, the event will continue to grow and attract visitors from all over the world.
Christ Church COI

Services of Worship for this Sunday The Sunday before Advent The Kingship of Christ: 8.30am Holy Communion; 11amThe Kingship of Christ Worship Together Service.

Parish Office: The Parish Office is open Monday to Thursday from 9.30 am to 1.30pm. Email: info@christchurchbray.ie; tel. 01 286 2968; Parish website: christchurchbray.ie; or see facebook.com/christchurchbray.

Parish Life Centre [PLC] Bookings: The Parish Life Centre is available for day and evening bookings. Please contact the Parish Office at 01-286 2968.

Order Your Christmas Tree Now: Collection from Christ Church Bray takes place from 10am to 12noon on Saturday December 6th. All proceeds as usual to charity -email christchurchbray@gmail.com, call the office (01) 286 2968, or George (087) 254 3113. All trees are non-shredders. Very keen prices! On behalf of all the charities we thank you for your support. Prices: 4ft40; 6ft47; 8ft50; 10ft59, and 14ft70. Just to cheer everyone up for the festive season: For everyone who purchases a tree this year, your name will be entered into a draw for a bumper Christmas Hamper and the draw will take place on Saturday December 6th.

Bray Methodist Church

Worship for this Sunday: 10amSunday Worship with Creche and Sunday School.

Bray Presbyterian Church

Worship for this Sunday: 11.30am Sunday Worship.

Christian Assembly Church

Worship for this Sunday: 10.45am Morning Worship.

Wednesdays: 8pm Prayer Meeting & Bible study.

Monthly Ladies Meeting: For details see: www.christianassemblybray.com.

Cornerstone Church

Cornerstone Church - Love God. Love People. Love Bray. At The Well Church Building, Church Terrace, Main Street, Bray A98 VE43.

Weekly Activities in The Bucket Room, Church Terrace, Main Street, Bray, include Mens Bible Study Mondays from 7.30pm to 9pm; Womens Bible Study Tuesdays from 10.45am to 12.30pm; Prayer Meeting Wednesdays from 10.30am to 12pm; Mens Indoor Bowls Wednesdays from 7.30pm to 9.30pm; Ukrainian Christian Film Night Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm; Ukrainian Bible Study Fridays from 6.30pm to 8.30pm; Games Evening Fridays from 7pm to 9.30pm; Friday Coffee & Chat a The Well Church Building, Church Terrace, Main Street, Bray. Drop in any Friday for a friendly cuppa and conversation  no need to book! For more information: Kyle Holland, Pastor +353 86 405 139.

Special Event Highlight is a Healing Meeting Bray Churches Together this Sunday from 7.30pm to 8.30pm. Join us for a powerful evening of worship, prayer, and healing. All are warmly invited.

Bray Christian Outreach

Free hot meals, clothes, sleeping bags, toiletries etc, are available in Bray Methodist Church from 3pm to 4pm on Sundays.

Holy Redeemer Parish

Mass Times: 10amMonday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday & Saturday No Mass on Tuesday. Sunday Masses: 6pm Vigil Mass on Saturday and on Sunday at 10.30am and 12Noon. To book a Mass, please call into the Sacristy before or after our Masses.

Parish Office Hours: Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday: 9.30am to 11am. If you need to contact us, please email: office@holyredeemer.ie.

Music at Mass on Sundays: 10.30amFolk Group; 12pmGaudium Choir (Mainly Latin Church Music) on the 1st Sunday of the Month; 12pm on other Sundays of the Month: Parish Choir (Mainly English Church Music).

Baptism: Registration for Baptism can be made online via the parish website www.holyredeemerbray.ie.

St Peters Parish

Mass Times: Sunday: 9am (Irish Mass), 11.30am. Holy Days: 11am. 1st Friday: 11am.

To Book a Mass: To book a Mass, please contact the Parish Office on 01- 282 9467 or email: stpeterslittlebray1@gmail.com.

Craft and Cake Sale in aid of Wicklow Hospice: Takes place from 10am to 2pm on Sunday November 30th in St. Peters Parish Hall cakes raffle crafts. If you are interested in hosting a table with crafts please contact the parish office on 01-282 9467. The cost of a table is 20. We are also looking for volunteers to bake cakes, buns, biscuits etc. All proceeds go to the Wicklow Hospice. Your support is greatly appreciated.

St Annes Church, Shankill: A Vigil Mass is celebrated at 5pm on Saturdays. All are welcome.

Our Lady Queen of Peace

Mass: Weekday Masses are celebrated at 10.30am on Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday. Weekend Masses are at 6.30pm on Saturdays and 10.30am and 12 Noon on Sundays.

Eucharistic Adoration: Eucharistic Adoration takes place from 11am to 10pm on Mondays only in this Church.

St Fergals Parish

Mass Times: Mass times are 9.30am Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. No morning Mass on Thursdays and Saturdays. Saturday: 7pm Vigil Mass; Sunday: 8am and 10.30am.

Confessions: These are heard on Saturdays after the 7pm Vigil Mass.

Baptism: Baptisms take place on the first and third Saturday of each Month at 12Noon. Bookings can be made through the Parish Office Only. The Preparation meeting takes place on the Monday before the 1st Saturday of the month. Please call into the Parish Office three weeks in advance of the Baptism to complete the Baptism Form and to confirm the date.

Join the Fergals Gospel Choir and let your voice shine: If you would like to join the choir please come to St. Fergals Church on Mondays from 8pm. The choir usually sings at two masses per month and we welcome everyone who loves to sing.

Shankill Christmas Fair

The St. Annes Parish Shankill Christmas Fair takes place in St. Annes Resource Centre beside St. Annes Church, Shankill from 10am to 2pm on Sunday November 30th. Crafts Cakes Wheel of Fortune, and a Monster Raffle. All are welcome.

Bray Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5pm Monday to Saturday with late opening on Tuesday and Thursday until 8.30pm. Bray Library can be emailed at braylib@wicklococo.ie to book a place for library events or make inquiries about them.

English Conversation Classes take place in the library every Monday (except Bank Holiday Mondays) from 11am to 12pm. Ciorcal Comhra Irish Language Conversation Group, meets every second Tuesday from 7pm to 8pm in the library. All are welcome no need to book Tomorrow night (Thursday).

Ballywaltrim Library

Opening hours are 10am to 5 pm Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and 10am to 8pm on Wednesday. The library can be contacted at 01-2723205 or by email at: ballywatrimlibrary@wicklowcoco.ie.

Adult Scrabble takes place every Monday from 3pm to 4.30pm no booking is required. Tummy-Time for Babies takes place every Monday from 10 am to 12pm no booking required.

Bray Cualann Historical Society

Peadar Curran will be the guest speaker for the 8pm Thursday November 20th meeting of the Bray Cualann Historical Society, the local history society for Bray and North Wicklow, in the Royal Hotel, Bray, at which he will present his lecture on Evie Hone: Stained Glass Artist. Evie Home was one of the most outstanding Irish stained glass artists of the 20th century and the presentation will include footage of her at work in her Marlay Park studio. All are welcome members are free and admission for non-members is 8.

Those wishing to join the Bray Cualann Historical Society can do so at this lecture. The annual membership rate for 2026 is 35 for an individual and 45 for a couple.

In the meantime events taking place which may be of interest to members and supporters of the Society include:- today (Wednesday) Julie Parsons will present Preachers Children: The Chamberlains of Adelaide Street at 8pm to the Dun Laoghaire Borough Historical Society in Royal Marine Hotel, Marine Road, Dun Laoghaire, Co. Dublin. All are welcomeadmission is 5. Free hotel parking is available for those attending this lecture. This Saturday the Balbriggan & District Historical Society will host History for All Talk and Walk (weather permitting) presented by Dr. Cora Mc Donagh & Emer Mallon at 2pm in Balbriggan Library, Georges Square, Balbriggan, Co. Dublin. Admission is free but booking is requiredto reserve a place please email: balbrigganlibrary@fingal.ie or phone 01-8704401. Next Monday night Moira Laffan will present Carriglea From Country House to the College of Art and Design for Foxrock Local History Club in Deansgrange Library, Clonkeen Drive, Deansgrange, Dublin 18. Admission is free but booking is required at 01-2047218; Dr. Edward J. Bourke will present The Battle of Pearse Street, Dublin -14th March 1921 at 8pm to Clondalkin Historical Society in Aras Chronain Irish Cultural Centre, Watery Lane, Clondalkin, Co. Dublin. All are welcome admission is 5. Next Wednesday Frank Whearity will present Isaac Varian (1888-1956), Dublin brush manufacturer & his seaside idyll Cloghmore at Hoar Rock, Skerries, Co. Dublin at 6pm to the Old Dublin Society in The Conference Room, Dublin City Library & Archive, 139-144 Pearse Street, Dublin 2. All are welcome admission is free and no booking is required. The AGM of the Society will follow this presentation. Next Thursday (November 27th) Richard McLachlan will present Digitising our Drawings Archive a restart at 8pm in the Societys Dublin Hueston station strictly members and their guests only; James Scannell will present Service Terminated; the last trams from Dartry and Terenure, October 31st 1948 at 8pm to the Rathmines, Ranelagh and Rathgar Historical Society in Rathmines Town Hall, Rathmines Road. Members are free / visitors 5 The Swan Car Park Evening Rate is 4 from 7 p.m. to Midnight.

Frost Fair

Common Ground invites everyone to their Frost Fair which takes place from 1pm to 5pm this Saturday at Beverly Studios, Church Terrace. Celebrate the Winter Season with food and crafts stalls, coffee, tea, and punch.

Ballywaltrim Christmas Craft Fair

A Christmas Craft Fair takes place from 11am to 2pm on Tuesday December 2nd in the Ballywaltrim Community Centre.

Purple House Christmas Candlelight Evening

You are invited to this celebration of Community Belonging and Gratitude at 6pm on Friday December 5th in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Bray.

Christmas by Candlelight Concert

Ross Scanlon and Friends present Christmas by Candlelight featuring Clelia Murphy, Aoife OConnell and Edward Finegan at 7.30pm on Friday December 12th in the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Bray. Tickets are 26 and available from www.gr8events.ie or call 086-1540350.
Member of the Irish Coast Guard and An Garda Siochana at the sod-turning ceremony for the new Greystones Coast Guard building.

Members of the Irish Coast Guard at the sod-turning ceremony for the new Greystones Coast Guard building, at Greystones marina.

The sod has finally been tuned on a new Coast Guard station in Greystones, after years of delay and over 300,000 spent to date on the project, with designs and costs signed off almost five years ago.

Minister Sean Canney, with special responsibility for the Irish Coast Guard, officially turned the sod for the new station on Tuesday morning, November 18. The 7.03m project is being delivered in partnership with the Office of Public Works, whose Minister of State Kevin Boxer Moran also joined the ceremony.

The Greystones/Wicklow Coast Guard Unit (CGU), which has a proud history dating back to the 1920s, delivers land, cliff, and maritime search and rescue services across a catchment area from Shanganagh and Bray as far south as Brittas.

Staffed entirely by volunteers, the unit includes 32 personnel and has responded to 52 incidents so far this year. Their work regularly involves collaboration with other emergency services, including Dun Laoghaire CGU, the Dublin-based R116 IRCG helicopter, An Garda Siochana, Greystones Fire Service, and the RNLI.

The new station will provide fit-for-purpose welfare and operational facilities, including an operations room, a training room, kitchenette, drying room, stores, boathouse, changing facilities, and boat launch facilities.

Speaking at the event, Minister Canney said: Our Coast Guard volunteers are the backbone of maritime search and rescue in Ireland. The Greystones/Wicklow Unit has saved countless lives over its long history, and this new station will ensure they have the facilities they need to continue their vital work for generations to come. Todays sod-turning is a tangible demonstration of our commitment to supporting these dedicated volunteers and the communities they serve.

Minister Moran added: I am delighted to be here today to see works commence on a new Coast Guard Station at Greystones for the Irish Coast Guard Services. This new station, once complete, will provide the unit and volunteers with modern accommodation and significantly improved storage facilities.

The commitment and dedication of the volunteers is second to none and I am delighted that this new facility will allow the unit to continue providing this invaluable service to the many communities along the southeast coast.

Plans for a new Greystones Coast Guard building had been signed off in November 2018, and the project was given planning permission by Wicklow County Council in 2020.

The formal transfer of the site from Wicklow County Council to the Office of Public Works (OPW) took place in September 2023, but prior to that, previous proposals had ground to a halt after 12 years of discussions due to a lack of funds.
A new voluntary community group has been set for Wicklow to help find people from the county who have gone missing, or to report missing persons from elsewhere who have been sighted in Wicklow.
Greystones Community College is holding a special one-off event with a focus on careers and is a unique opportunity for young students at the school who are considering making plans for their futures.

Tying in with events for College Awareness Week, which runs this week until Sunday, November 23, the school will host a Career Fair on Tuesday, November 25, from 9:45am to 12:45pm.

The event will bring together parents and members of the local community to share their career journeys and educational pathways with students. The fair aims to inspire students to explore a wide range of career options and to highlight the many routes available to further and higher education.

Commenting on the idea behind the fair, principal Ruairi Farrell said: We are delighted to take part in this nationwide initiative highlighting the importance of continuing education and exploring future college and career pathways.

"College Awareness Week is a great reminder that there are many supports available and that everyone  regardless of age or background  can pursue their goals. It must be said that we are very grateful to the professionals from various sectors who are giving their time to speak with our students.

For over 10 years, College Awareness Week has aimed to inspire and inform all students in Ireland about the multitude of options available to continue your education. It encourages students to pursue the course best suited to their interests, abilities, and dreams, whether that is a PLC qualification, an apprenticeship, or a university degree.

The initiative is supported by the National Association of Principals and Deputy Principals, and many other organisations such as the Institute of Guidance Counsellors, the Union of Students in Ireland, and the Irish Union of Second Level Students.

For 10 years, events have taken place across educational institutions and places of learning, including schools, colleges, libraries, youth clubs, and organisations in the community education sector. The campaign now involves over 50pc of DEIS schools.

Last year, College Awareness Week saw hundreds of events taking place in every county, including Wicklow, with over 180,000 students positively impacted. This year, it is expected to continue to bring even more participants on board with a strong focus on people whose participation in Higher Education remains below average.

Those looking to get involved in the campaign are encouraged to visit collegeaware.ie and follow @collegeaware on social media.
Brona from Hoopixie entertained the residents of Baltinglass Hospital last Friday performing some incredible tricks with hoola hoops.

The Women's Group held a wreath-making workshop in Rural Revival over the weekend with some fabulous results under the guidance of facilitator Betty.

The West Wicklow Historical Society will launch its thirteenth journal (Edited by Chris Lalor and Declan Keenan) on Thursday, November 20 at 8 pm in the Hollywood Inn.

Feargal O hEidhneachain, the Societys youngest member and recent winner of the Colm Lennon award from Maynooth University, will launch the journal. It will feature articles from local contributors such as Liam Kenny on the 100th anniversary of the Irish military taking over the Glen from the British Army in 1825. Mairead Kelly will give a sociological interpretation of the Hillforts. Richard Lennon will talk about two early 20th century poets with Baltinglass connections. And lots more besides.

Following the passing away of two honorary members of the Historical Society, tributes are included in the journal to PJ Hanlon and Phyllis Flanagan.

You are invited to join WWHS for refreshments and a preview of the Journal (available to purchase for 15) before they are distributed locally, or available to buy online.

Christmas Concert

Baltinglass Sings returns to St. Josephs Church to entertain attendees with heart-warming winter songs and carols on Friday, December 12. The Concert also offers the opportunity to remember the choirs dear friend and supporter, Phyllis Flanagan.

Admission is 10 available to purchase from choir members, from the Parish Office or at the door on the night (cash only). The tickets will be entered into a draw for a raffle to take place during the night. Children under 12 have free entry. The event is supported by Creative Places Baltinglass.

Active Retirement

The venue for the weekly coffee mornings for November, of the Active Retirement group is Hug-a-Mug on a Friday at 11 am.

The group is also organising a shopping trip to Kilkenny on Saturday, November 29. Further details are available from Mary at 087 2999571.

The Christmas Dinner for seniors in the local community and Active Retired members is scheduled for Thursday, December 4 at 1 pm in Germaines. Tickets are 27, payable at the next meeting on Wednesday, November 26 in Germaines.

Donations to the homeless charity In their Shoes are requested to be brought to the next meeting. Items such as toiletries for male and female, hats, scarves, gloves, socks, towels, chocolates, biscuits, sweets, selection boxes, back-packs, vouchers, and torches would be appreciated. General clothing items are not requested at this time. Members contribution would be gratefully received.

Social Dance

The next monthly Social Dance in Rathdangan Community Hall will be on Saturday, December 13 from 9 pm until 12 midnight. Music will be by John Kenny and Marty Kinsella. Refreshments will be served.

Knockananna Car Boot Sale

Knockananna Tidy Towns will hold their last car boot sale of the year on Saturday, November 29. The hall will open from 8 am to 1 pm. If you come early, you will get some great bargains. Stalls will include plenty of home baking, bric a brac, Christmas decorations, childrens toys, books and pre-loved items of clothing. A pitch is 10 and tables are provided.

The Tidy Towns committee sincerely thanks everyone who has donated to them or volunteered in any way. They were very happy with the extra points Knockannana received in this years Tidy Towns competition.

CV and Interview Preparation

Baltinglass Further Education and Training (FETAC) is inviting adults to join them for a CV Preparation and Interview Skills course starting this Wednesday, November 19.

The course will help you to create a professional CV and prepare you for a formal interview. You will also learn to improve your IT skills to apply for jobs online and build your confidence in completing job applications. All of this you will gain while learning in a friendly and informal setting with other adults.

The course times are Wednesdays and Fridays for 3 weeks in the training centre behind the secondary school. For more information you can contact 086 8462771 or email abebaltinglass@kwetb.ie.

Churchlane Christmas Market

The much-loved Churchlane Christmas Market is set to return next Saturday, November 22 from 4 pm to 8 pm bringing festive magic back to the grounds of Stratford Lodge Old and New School for the fourth consecutive year. Organised in aid of St. Marys Church, Baltinglass, and the Church of the Ascension, Ballynure, the event has raised vital funds for parish projects while also fostering a strong sense of community spirit.

Inspired by the traditional European Christmas markets, the event features four indoor rooms, eight marquees, and over forty stalls, creating that authentic Christmas market feel. Santa Claus will make a special appearance to his newly located Santa Grotto and there will be plenty of family-friendly fun including games, hot chocolate, cookies, a lucky dip, and stalls featuring toys.

Christmas Carol Sing-along

Join Baltinglass Tidy Towns for a Christmas Carol sing-along event in the Lords Wood on December 23. Assembling at 4.45 pm in the Lords Wood car park, this event will be in aid of St Vincent de Paul. Please note there will be no parking available at the Lords Wood car park itself. There is plenty of parking on the main road on the Mart side. Come along for a special evening of Christmas Carols. Wrap up warm and bring a torch.

Grangecon Christmas Market

Grangecon Christmas Market will take place on Sunday, December 7 from 1 pm to 4.30 pm on the Main Street. The event will also include the Christmas Tree lighting ceremony. There will be lots of locally produced crafts as well as cakes and other goodies on sale.

Condolences

We send our sincere condolences to the Doyle and Powell families on the recent death of Des Doyle from Tankardstown who passed away last Wednesday. He was predeceased by his wife Mary Rose Powell and brother Frank. He will be sadly missed by his Sister, Lorna and her sons, his children Des, Christian, Noel and Rosemary and their partners and all his extended family, relatives, friends and neighbours.

We pass on our sincere sympathy to the OKeeffe and Lynch family on the death of Teresa OKeeffe from Parkmore, Baltinglass and formerly from Kerry who passed away on Wednesday, November 12. Predeceased by her siblings Joe, Liam and Maureen she will be missed by her husband Jim and children Eamonn, Mary, Bridget, John and Catherine.

Ar dheis De go raibh a nanam dilis.
The broadcaster on working too much, his dislike of dishonesty and people telling him he is intimidating

Matt Cooper is a journalist, podcaster and author from Co Cork. He writes a column for the Business Post, hosts The Last Word on Today FM, and is author of a number of books, including Dynasty, which is about the family behind Dunnes Stores. He lives in Co Dublin with is wife Aileen and children.
Darts

Your guide to the World Darts Championship  all you need to know as Luke Littler begins his title defence at Ally Pally tonight
UK home secretary Shabana Mahmood using children as a weapon in asylum reforms, says Labour peer who fled Nazis

Labour members hit out at measures, which are praised by Reform UKs Nigel Farage

Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch replying to Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood's statement to the House of Commons on the asylum system. Picture date: Monday November 17, 2025. PA Photo. Photo credit should read: House of Commons/UK Parliament/PA Wire

David Maddox UK Independent Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

A Labour peer who fled from the Nazis as a child refugee has accused home secretary Shabana Mahmood of using children as a weapon under her plans to make the UK less attractive to asylum-seekers.
Prime minister Donald Tusk (right) yesterday visited the site of the rail line that was damaged by sabotage in Poland. Photo: AP

Two Ukrainian citizens working for Russia are suspected of blowing up a railway line in Poland over the weekend, prime minister Donald Tusk said yesterday.

Speaking to the Sejm, the lower house of the Polish parliament, Mr Tusk said the two suspects had been collaborating with the Russian secret services for a long time.
Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky has said he will travel to Turkey this week in an attempt to jump-start negotiations on ending Russias war, which began nearly four years ago.
Europe is facing a shortage of explosives because much of the supply of TNT has been used by Israel to bomb Gaza, a new report claims.

Polands state-owned Nitro-Chem TNT factory is the only one of its kind in Europe and is not keeping pace with demand. Most munitions larger than a bullet use TNT and global demand is outstripping production capacity.
Palestinian attackers stabbed an Israeli to death and wounded three more in the occupied West Bank yesterday before being shot down by troops in the latest violence to rock the occupied territory, the Israeli military said.
Donald Trump told a female reporter to be quiet, piggy as he fielded questions about his relationship with Jeffrey Epstein on Air Force One.

The US president was travelling back to Washington on Friday when a Bloomberg reporter asked why he did not want to release the remaining Epstein files.
Tears from Epsteins alleged victims as House of Representatives votes to release the files

US House and Senate votes overwhelmingly to force release of Epstein files

David Morgan and Dolan D McCaskill Associated Press Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

The Republican-controlled US House of Representatives voted almost unanimously yesterday to force the release of Justice Department files on the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, an outcome president Donald Trump had fought for months before ending his opposition.
Trump says Saudi crown prince didnt know about murder of Khashoggi during White House visit

Lavish welcome for Bin Salman at White House with warplane flyover

President Donald Trump meets Saudi Arabia's crown prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office of the White House. Photo: AP

Steve Holland Reuters Wed 19 Nov 2025 at 06:30

US president Donald Trump fiercely defended Mohammed bin Salman at the White House yesterday, insisting the Saudi crown prince did not know about the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, effectively contradicting an assessment by US intelligence agencies.
Rapper Eminem has sued Australian beach brand Swim Shady, arguing the companys name is too similar to his trademarked alter ego, Slim Shady.

The Monster artist  real name Marshall B. Mathers III  filed a complaint with the US Patent and Trademark Office in September, requesting it cancel the Swim Shady trademark it had granted to the company just days prior.
Romania scrambled fighter jets when a drone breached its airspace during a Russian attack on Ukrainian infrastructure near the border, the defense ministry said.

The European Union and NATO state, which shares a 650km border with Ukraine, has had Russian drone fragments fall on its territory repeatedly as Moscow attacks Ukrainian port infrastructure across the river Danube from Romania.
Parenting reality hits Chanel and Johnny hard

( Image credit : Soap Opera Digest | Johnny learns the tough side of parenting )

Marlenas health crisis sends shockwaves through the family

( Image credit : Soap Opera Digest | Sami has already gone back to Italy )

Cats unlikely rise continues in Salem

( Image credit : Soap Opera Digest | Marlenas strange symptoms have her loved ones anxiously waiting )

The midweek episode of Days of our Lives throws Salem into a mix of worry, surprises and emotional moments. Chanel and Johnnys first real taste of parenting arrives quickly, while Belle and Shawn drift back into familiar rhythms. Meanwhile, Marlenas unexplained illness weighs on everyone waiting for answers.Chanel always imagined motherhood as a sweet, picture-perfect experience  adorable clothes, cuddly moments, and showing off her baby to everyone she loves. Those dreams didnt include constant diaper changes, sleepless nights and a fussy newborn who refuses to settle. Now she and Johnny are discovering that being parents comes with far more challenges than she expected.As Johnny adjusts to fatherhood, EJ finds his own nerves rising. With Tony missing and Kristen on the loose after breaking out of prison, EJ fears they could be targets next. Whatever danger is circling the DiMeras, he suspects it won't stay distant for long.At the hospital, Marlenas strange symptoms have her loved ones anxiously waiting. Sami has already gone back to Italy with her fiance, but Eric and Belle sit in the waiting room, trying to stay calm while doctors figure out whats happening.Sarah explains that delays in Marlenas lab results  along with earlier errors  might be tied to EJs budget cuts. Belle lashes out at EJ in frustration before turning to Shawn. Unlike EJ, Shawn doesnt push back, and Belle leans on him for the steadiness she desperately needs right now.Cat arrived in town with every possible wrong intention  manipulate Chad, marry him, kill him and take his money. But since then, shes somehow become a standout in Salem. Her streak continues when she manages to stop a robbery, once again proving she has a strange talent for landing on her feet.Chanel and Johnny struggle with new responsibilities, Marlenas condition remains uncertain, EJ anxiously watches the shadows, and Cat somehow becomes the unexpected hero yet again.Salem faces tension, confusion and unexpected heroics as families brace for answers, dangers creep closer, and everyone prepares for what comes next.
( Image credit : X/ @Nostamoments | Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivo during an event )

Who is Lena Waithe?

( Image credit : X/ @Nostamoments | Cynthia Erivo and Lena Waithe pose with friends )

Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivos love story

( Image credit : X/ @reservafonteari | Frankie Grande, Ariana Grande, Cynthia Erivo, Lena Waithe e Jon M. Chu em paris )

About Wicked for Good

Cynthia Erivo, the acclaimed Wicked for Good star known for her powerhouse performances and bold presence on screen and stage, has also drawn attention for her personal life. At the center of that spotlight is her partner, Emmy-winning creator Lena Waithe. While Erivo continues to captivate audiences with her rising career, her relationship with Waithe adds another layer of intrigue, with the couple maintaining a largely private but much-discussed bond.Lena Waithe is an acclaimed American writer, producer, and actor celebrated for her influential contributions to film and television. She first gained major recognition with Master of None, becoming the first Black woman to win an Emmy for Outstanding Writing in a Comedy Series. Since then, she has created notable projects like The Chi, Twenties, and Boomerang, and co-wrote the acclaimed film Queen & Slim. Alongside her acting roles in Master of None, Ready Player One, and Westworld, Waithe continues to champion queer Black representation in Hollywood through her production company, Hillman Grad Productions.Lena Waithe and Cynthia Erivos relationship traces back to their first meeting at the 2018 Met Gala, where they immediately connected and formed a close friendship. Their bond gradually deepened, and by early 2020, after Waithes separation from her wife, they were reportedly romantically involved, though both have chosen to keep their personal lives mostly out of the spotlight. Erivos affectionate 2022 birthday tribute to Waithe offered a rare public glimpse into their connection, and since then theyve continued to support each others creative paths. Together, they represent two powerful voices in LGBTQ+ storytelling, with a relationship rooted in shared artistry and mutual respect.Wicked: For Good is the second chapter of Jon M. Chus two-part film adaptation of the beloved musical Wwicked, slated to release on November 21, 2025. The film follows Cynthia Erivos Elphaba, now in hiding and fighting for the freedom of Ozs oppressed Animals, while Ariana Grandes Glinda continues her rise as Emerald Citys cherished public figure. As the political stakes intensify, both women are forced to confront their shared past and the forces threatening to reshape Oz, leading to a powerful and emotional finale to their story.
A years-long legal saga involving one of NASAs most recognisable astronauts has taken a dramatic turn. Summer Heather Worden, the former spouse of astronaut Anne McClain, has officially admitted she lied when she accused McClain of carrying out the first-ever crime in outer space. The allegations, made in 2019 while McClain was serving on a mission aboard the International Space Station, prompted widespread media attention and launched federal investigations.



Worden, a 50-year-old former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer, pleaded guilty on 13 November, according to the U.S. District Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Texas. Prosecutors revealed that Worden knowingly misled investigators when she claimed McClain had accessed her bank account without permission during the mission.



Investigators uncover the truth



Federal documents show that Worden told authorities McClain had guessed her password and accessed her financial information from space. However, investigators later determined that the account had been opened in 2018 and that both partners had access to it until early 2019, when Worden changed the credentials. Officials added that Worden had provided McClain with login details as far back as 2015.



The initial accusations triggered inquiries by NASAs inspector general as well as the Federal Trade Commission. What began as a sensational claim about space-based wrongdoing quickly unravelled into a deeper conflict tied to the couples turbulent separation.



A relationship already under strain



McClain and Worden married in 2014 but their relationship deteriorated amid custody disputes and separate legal complaints. Worden filed for divorce in 2018 after McClain accused her of assault in an incident that was later dismissed by Missouri authorities. Their divorce was finalised in 2020, but the fallout continued to echo through the legal system for years.



McClain, a decorated Army officer and West Point graduate who joined NASA in 2013, has since continued her career, serving as commander of NASAs SpaceX Crew-10 mission earlier this year.



Awaiting sentencing



U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett has scheduled Wordens sentencing for 12 February 2026. She faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. For now, she has been allowed to remain on bond.



The case serves as a stark reminder of how personal disputes can escalate into international headlines, especially when space exploration enters the mix.
Millie Bobby Brown shares next tattoo idea

( Image credit : X @millsfavztar | Millie Bobby Browns reveal comes amid rumours about her marriage to Jake Bongiovi. )

Why fans urged Millie Bobby Brown to divorce Jake Bongiovi

( Image credit : X @literatiily | Millie Bobby Brown with her daughter )

( Image credit : Instagram @milliebobbybrown | Millie Bobby and Jake Bongiovi )

Millie Bobby and Jake Bongiovi

Actress Millie Bobby Brown is back in the spotlight, teasing her next tattoo while fans debate her relationship with Jake Bongiovi. Though she hasnt addressed divorce rumours directly, the actresss playful comments and movie-inspired ink hint at her personal feelings.Millie, 21, already has at least eight tattoos, and earlier this year, she debuted her husbands initials in small black letters on her ankle. Recently, she shared with Collider her plans for a new ink, inspired by her favourite movie quote from Star Wars: Episode V  The Empire Strikes Back.Millie said, I just love that line. Star Wars. I love you. I know. Empire Strikes Back. She explained how she even quotes the line to Jake in daily life: The other day, I said it to Jake. He was like, I love you. And I was like, I know. And he was like, What are you, Han Solo? And I was like, Yeah. I just love that. I love that line. It's so cute.The quote-based tattoo, if Millie decides to get it, would be her second ink honouring her relationship with Jake. The revelation came after the couple faced online criticism, making her comments seem like a subtle clapback to the divorce rumours.The tattoo reveal comes soon after fans urged Millie to divorce Jake, with criticism aimed at his parenting of their baby girl, adopted in August 2025. Social media heated up after a paparazzi outing in November 2025, where Millie was captured carrying her baby alone. Stranger Things co-star Noah Schnapp was also present, carrying the babys bag.Onlookers shared moments of the outing on X (formerly Twitter), with one user writing, divorce baby divorce, a sentiment echoed by several others online. Despite the backlash, Millies comments in her Collider interview appeared lighthearted and affectionate, highlighting her strong connection to Jake.Millie and Jake, who married in May 2024, have consistently defended their decision to marry at a young age. The couples relationship has been in the spotlight since their early marriage, and their adoption of a baby girl added further public attention.
What led to Trumps comment and who is the reporter?

Watching Donald Trump telling a reporter "QUIET PIGGY" is hilarious  pic.twitter.com/0kplgzLcAl



 Basil the Great (@BasilTheGreat) November 18, 2025





How journalists and press groups responded

Donald Trump just now to a Female Reporter: " Quiet Piggy"





Hires lawyers to handle the "meanies"





Takes shots at women and disabled people because he sees them as easy targets.





And generally carries an air of incompetence and Diaper stench wherever he goes.





This is your guy? pic.twitter.com/Dlj30nPFI7



 The Sarcastic Canuck  (@Sarcastic_Canuk) November 18, 2025





Why the pattern matters to women in journalism

( Image credit : X/Maga_Trigger | Donald Trump is facing renewed criticism after referring to Bloomberg journalist Catherine Lucey as piggy )

A remark that raises larger questions

Donald Trump has once again drawn criticism for attacking a female journalist, this time for calling Bloomberg White House correspondent Catherine Lucey piggy during an exchange aboard Air Force One. The remark, which initially generated limited attention, later circulated widely and prompted responses from journalists who have themselves been on the receiving end of Trumps insults.Lucey was using a routine press gaggle to question Trump about the growing pressure around the Jeffrey Epstein case. She asked why he was reacting the way he was if the House was preparing to vote on the full release of Epstein-related files and if there was nothing incriminating in them.Before she could finish, Trump pointed at her and said, Quiet. Quiet, piggy.The exchange was first reported publicly by CBS News reporter Jennifer Jacobs, who noted the remark but did not identify the reporter involved. The incident later became clearer as other journalists began responding.CNNs Jake Tapper called the comment disgusting and completely unacceptable, while former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson also criticized it.Asked about the situation, Lucey referred questions to Bloomberg.A spokesperson for Bloomberg News said their White House team perform a vital public service and that the organization remains committed to covering public issues fairly and accurately. The White House Correspondents Association did not issue a comment.The wording Trump used is familiar. Alicia Machado, the 1996 Miss Universe winner, has previously said Trump called her Miss Piggy while urging her to lose weight. In 2018, Trump official Lynne Patton referred to White House correspondent April Ryan as Miss Piggy, though Patton later apologized.Ryan, speaking to the Guardian, said the presidents behavior fell far below expectations for the office. She argued that the remark likely reflected his discomfort over the growing attention on the Epstein files. Ryan added that Lucey was right to press her question and urged her to continue.The International Womens Media Foundation has previously urged the White House to show more respect toward female journalists, citing earlier remarks from Trump.The organizations executive director, Elisa Lees Munoz, said Trumps piggy comment fits a longstanding pattern and serves as another attempt to shut down women through appearance-based insults.According to Munoz, such remarks can trigger broader waves of online abuse and make reporting more difficult, creating a chilling effect for others who must question those in power.When approached for comment, a White House official shifted blame onto Lucey, claiming without evidence that she behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way toward colleagues on the plane. The official did not clarify what that meant, and no further response was provided.Trumps comment adds to his history of clashing with female reporters and revives concerns within the press corps about how such remarks affect journalists work.The exchange has also renewed scrutiny of Trumps responses to questions about the Epstein case, especially as lawmakers move toward releasing more of the related files.Trumps remark reignites concerns about his treatment of women journalists and highlights growing tension over questions tied to the Epstein files.




According to NYPD reports, Chung was arrested twice on Saturday at Sea Thai and Michelin-starred Italian restaurant Misi, and then released under supervision. On Monday, she posted photos on Instagram of a full mezze platter, lamb, and coconut milk pudding from popular Israeli eatery 12 Chairs, where sources say she left without paying. The restaurant reportedly chose not to involve the police.



( Image credit : Instagram/ @lu.pychung | Glam life hides a shocking dine-and-dash spree )



Glamorous appearance, dubious tactics



Chung has been arrested seven times since late October for allegedly leaving high-tally tabs unpaid at restaurants like Peter Luger, Francie, and Lavender Lake. Restaurant owners described a familiar pattern: Chung shows up dressed to the nines, photographs her meals, and attempts to exchange social-media promotion or pay with cards that are declined. A manager at PeterLuger's claimed she even offered sexual favors in exchange for a meal.



( Image credit : Instagram/ @lu.pychung | Pei Chungs glittering life masks unpaid meals )



Friends who know her recall a very different side of Pei Chung. Chung was once a familiar face of New Yorks social circle; she attended galas and nightclubs dressed in Prada and Louis Vuitton. Born in Taiwan, she studied ballet, violin, and classical piano, achieving top scores on national exams. She completed her masters in fine arts at the National University of Kaohsiung and later pursued Information Experience Design at Pratt University on a full scholarship.





























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A post shared by   , -    (@lu.pychung)





Pei Lu Chung, a Brooklyn-based social media influencer, hasnt stopped her alleged streak of skipping out on restaurant bills. Just days after her Friday arraignment on theft of service charges following five prior arrests at Williamsburg hotspots, Chung was accused of hitting even more eateries over the weekend.According to NYPD reports, Chung was arrested twice on Saturday at Sea Thai and Michelin-starred Italian restaurant Misi, and then released under supervision. On Monday, she posted photos on Instagram of a full mezze platter, lamb, and coconut milk pudding from popular Israeli eatery 12 Chairs, where sources say she left without paying. The restaurant reportedly chose not to involve the police.Chung has been arrested seven times since late October for allegedly leaving high-tally tabs unpaid at restaurants like Peter Luger, Francie, and Lavender Lake. Restaurant owners described a familiar pattern: Chung shows up dressed to the nines, photographs her meals, and attempts to exchange social-media promotion or pay with cards that are declined. A manager at PeterLuger's claimed she even offered sexual favors in exchange for a meal.Friends who know her recall a very different side of Pei Chung. Chung was once a familiar face of New Yorks social circle; she attended galas and nightclubs dressed in Prada and Louis Vuitton. Born in Taiwan, she studied ballet, violin, and classical piano, achieving top scores on national exams. She completed her masters in fine arts at the National University of Kaohsiung and later pursued Information Experience Design at Pratt University on a full scholarship.





A friends perspective





( Image credit : Instagram/ @lu.pychung | Socialite Pei Chung sparks NYC restaurant scandal )

From UX designer to social media scammer



























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A post shared by   , -    (@lu.pychung)







Despite the arrests and growing public attention, Chung continues to maintain her social media presence, seemingly planning her next move. Friends expressed shock over her alleged dine-and-dash schemes, signaling a sharp contrast to the cultured, polished persona they once knew. Despite the arrests and growing public attention, Chung continues to maintain her social media presence, seemingly planning her next move. Friends expressed shock over her alleged dine-and-dash schemes, signaling a sharp contrast to the cultured, polished persona they once knew.

A friend who met Chung during the pandemic remembered her as intelligent, polite, and passionate about art. They often attended concerts and museums together, with Chung paying her share. However, things changed when she spoke of an ex-boyfriend who was stalking her. According to the friend, her behavior became increasingly unusual, and she eventually asked him to pretend to be her boyfriend for safety. Soon after, she vanished from the social scene, leaving friends concerned and puzzled.Chung briefly worked as a contract UX designer for companies including Comcast, Chase, and Vanguard, but by 2023 described herself as semi-retired on LinkedIn. That same year, she started posting influencer-style food photos of meals from high-end restaurants, including LAbeille and Jean-Georges. Living in a luxury Williamsburg apartment, she flaunts designer brands like Prada, Cartier, Dior, and Hermes, a lifestyle that raises questions about how she can afford it.
( Image credit : JioHotstar | Gaurav Khanna in Bigg Boss 19 )

Why Akanksha Chamola is facing social media criticism

Fans praise her personality despite the backlash

Who is Akanksha Chamola?

Gaurav Khanna and Akankshas love story

( Image credit : JioHotstar |Gaurav Khannas wife Akanksha Chamola entered Bigg Boss 19 )

( Image credit : Sony | Gaurav Khanna and Akanksha Chamola in Celebrity MasterChef )

Bigg Boss 19 is known for the unexpected drama from the housemates, but this time, someone outside the house is grabbing all the attention. Actor Akanksha Chamola, the wife of contestant Gaurav Khanna, has suddenly become one of the most discussed personalities associated with the show.Soon after the makers posted the promo of her entering the house on Instagram, Akankshas outfit became a talking point. What began as simple comments quickly turned into harsh criticism. One user wrote, Item song karne ayi hai kya Ghar me chi shame.(Have you come to perform an item song?) Another said, I dont like the way she is dressed. A viewer questioned, Is she on national TV or some beach show? while another added, The dress could have been worn a little better.This wave of reactions moved beyond Instagram and spread to Reddit as well. Someone pointed out, What is she wearing ?A user even joked about how her outfit choice might be connected to Tanya Mittal:She wanted to wear a saree for her first appearance in Bigg Boss, but she didn't. Otherwise, Tanya would say, Akansha Bhabhi follows her and is inspired by herAnother simply said, Logo ko Guru Randhawa ke Azool song se itni problem nhi thi jitni Akansha ki dress se hai (People didn't have as many problems with Guru Randhawa's 'Azul' song as they did with Akansha's dress)Even though some criticised her, many viewers supported her and found her appearances fun and refreshing. Several users said they want Akanksha to join Bigg Boss next year, saying her strong personality is Bigg Boss material.Akanksha Chamola is a 41-year-old television actress from Mumbai. She began her acting journey with the show Swaragini from 2015 to 2016, earning appreciation for her natural screen presence. Her success soon led her to the lead role in Bhootu from 2017 to 2018.In 2022, she was seen in Can You See Me, further strengthening her place in the TV industry. Off-screen, she is known for her straightforward nature, charm, and grounded personality. Born and raised in Mumbai, she completed her postgraduation in commerce before pursuing acting.Akankshas romance with Anupamaa actor Gaurav Khanna remains a fan favourite. The two first met during a TV audition, where Gaurav tried to break the ice by introducing himself with a fake name. Their interaction lasted only 15 minutes, but it left Gaurav instantly smitten.After dating for a while, he proposed romantically, and the couple married on November 24, 2016. Their grand three-day celebration in Kanpur was filled with friends, family, and industry colleagues, a moment fans still admire.Before Bigg Boss 19, she once made a surprise visit to meet Gaurav on Celebrity MasterChef India. Gaurav later went on to win the first season of Celebrity MasterChef.However, post Bigg Boss, this isnt the first time Akanksha has faced online negativity. When Gaurav entered Bigg Boss 19, some fans accused her of not openly supporting him.
Fans react to North Wests new piercing

( Image credit : X @barkjack | North West showed she is unfazed by online backlash. )

North and Kim respond to criticism

What are dermal piercings?

North Wests bold fashion choices

North first debuted the piercing in August while in Rome with her mother. She paired it with a corset and miniskirt, sparking online discussion. This recent public backlash follows earlier criticism of her Halloween costume, where she wore temporary face tattoos, a nose ring, colored contacts, and grillz, matching her friends playful looks. Many viewers expressed concern over her age, questioning the appropriateness of such bold fashion choices for a tween.

( Image credit : X @barkjack | North Wests bold Halloween look. )

Kim Kardashian explains Norths online presence

( Image credit : Instagram @kimkardashian | Kim Kardashian explains Norths online presence. )

North West, the eldest daughter of reality star Kim Kardashian and rapper Kanye West, has once again caught the publics attention with her fashion choices. The 12-year-old recently debuted a dermal piercing on her middle finger, also known as a single-point piercing. Since the reveal, fans have expressed concern and criticised Kim for allowing it.On November 11, one TikTok user, @mazzy_williams, posted a video with the text, North West getting a finger piercing is breaking my heart. Just me? The clip quickly spread across platforms with the caption, What is going on? The reactions ranged from shock to disappointment, as fans debated whether the piercing was appropriate for a 12-year-old.On November 13, the joint TikTok account for North and Kim replied to the clip, writing, Its okay . This simple response aimed to calm fans and show that North was confident in her decision.Several other users defended the young star, with one saying, How does it affect you, like actually? and another adding, She wanted the piercing, and Kim let her; please stop. Kims just trying to let her kids express themselves.A dermal piercing is placed under the skin and does not have a separate entry and exit point, making it different from regular piercings. According to WebMD, these piercings can sometimes cause complications such as infections. Typically, individuals must be 18 to get a dermal piercing unless a parent or legal guardian grants permission. In Norths case, Kim Kardashian approved the piercing, supporting her daughters choice to express herself creatively.While some fans remain critical of Norths piercings and outfits, Kim shared how her daughter responds to the criticism in a Complex GOAT Talk YouTube interview. North, if she ever posts a TikTok, it's on my phone, so she has to ask my approval, and then I post it, whatever, Kim explained.She added that North herself wrote a clapback to critics, stating, This is such a non-issue, showing confidence and maturity in handling online negativity. Kim further explained that people often overreact to her daughters style choices.Apart from North, Kim shares three other children with Kanye West: Saint, 9; Chicago, 7; and Psalm, 6.
( Image credit : Popbase | Nicki Minaj poses for the camera )

Nicki Minaj slammed for thanking Donald Trump

( Image credit : X/ Popbasee Parody | Nicki Minaj at the UN )

( Image credit : X/ @doctorTeeTee | Nicki Minaj thanks Trump )

What did Nicki Minaj say during her UN speech?

( Image credit : X/ @statsofminaj | Nicki Minaj during her speech )

Nicki Minaj sparked widespread controversy after she thanked Donald Trump during her UN address centered on the protection of Christians in Nigeria. What began as a serious discussion on religious persecution quickly shifted in tone when she referenced Trump, prompting an immediate wave of criticism online. Many felt her remarks blurred the lines between humanitarian advocacy and political endorsement, leading to accusations that she was using a global platform for attention-seeking or political alignment.Before addressing the trolling Nicki Minaj faced for thanking Trump, its important to highlight that her comments also received significant appreciation from Christians in Nigeria and supporters of the cause. Many praised her for using her global platform to bring attention to the persecution they face, calling her support a much-needed boost in amplifying their struggles. For those directly affected and for activists fighting for their protection, Nickis recognition of the issue felt validating and timely, offering visibility to a crisis that often goes unnoticed on the world stage.Reacting to it, one wrote, Niki Minaj has made an enemy for life. I will be here praying and wishing for her downfall till one of us live this world.A second added, Like shes so coookkkeedddd. She wants that pardon for Kenny so bad. A third went on to add, Shes doing all this because Lil Wayne was pardoned and its all part of the package deal.Minaj, speaking at an event organized by the U.S. Embassy to the United Nations, expressed gratitude to Donald Trump for prioritizing this issue and for his leadership. She pointed out that the plight of Christians in Nigeria has been a recurring focus of her social media posts, shared with her millions of followers.She noted that Trump had urged urgent action to defend Christians in Nigeria and to combat extremism, while also pledging to stand up in the face of injustice for anyone persecuted for their faith. Standing beside U.S. Ambassador to the UN Mike Waltz, Minaj asserted that Christians in Nigeria are being targeted, displaced, and killed.She further stressed that churches have been burned, families shattered, and entire communities forced to live in fear simply because of how they pray.
Well that stupid alcohol ban between 2 and 5pm has been around since I first travelled to Thailand in 1993







It's been in place since 1972 so it's hard to claim it's had an affect on tourism







But it was a factor in me choosing not to retire in Thailand







I assume others as well 





 Barking Mad (@Rehab614216) November 13, 2025

From civil Servants to tourists: A historical twist

( Image credit : Instagram/sashithaimalka| Thailands daytime alcohol sales ban dates back to 1972 )

Thailands 25 p.m. alcohol sales restriction dates back to 1972, introduced by a military government to curb civil servants lunchtime drinking. Over time, the restriction was incorporated into the 2008 Alcoholic Beverage Control Act, which continues to regulate alcohol sales. The recent rollback is part of a trial program allowing more flexible consumption in licensed establishments, reflecting an attempt to support tourism while maintaining oversight of alcohol availability.

Holiday season implications

( Image credit : Instagram/aviation.matt_kr| Tourists can expect fewer restrictions this holiday season )

With December 2025 approaching, tourists can expect fewer restrictions, allowing afternoon drinks at hotels, bars, and beach resorts. Neighboring destinations have varied regulations: Vietnam generally permits alcohol sales throughout the day in tourist areas, while Cambodia restricts early morning sales but not afternoon consumption. Thailands temporary relaxation may help it remain competitive with these regional destinations for international travelers seeking both daytime and nightlife experiences.The episode also highlights the challenge of regulating alcohol in a tourism-dependent economy. If the trial is successful, Thailand could extend more flexible alcohol rules into 2026, modernizing decades-old regulations while supporting hospitality businesses during the critical high season.
( Image credit : X/ @AstroAnnimal | Investigation disproves claims against Anne McClain )

Investigation finds claims were false





( Image credit : X/ @AstroAnnimal | McClain commands NASAs SpaceX Crew-10 mission )

Marriage, divorce, and custody battle





( Image credit : X/ @Advil | NASA astronaut Anne McClain brings her 4-year-old to shoot )

Sentencing and legal consequences





Summer Heather Worden, the ex-wife of NASA astronaut Anne McClain, pleaded guilty to providing false information to law enforcement after accusing McClain of committing what was described as the first crime in outer space. Worden, a former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer from Sedgwick County, Kansas, entered her guilty plea on November 13, the U.S. District Attorneys Office for the Southern District of Texas announced on November 18.In July 2019, Worden alleged that McClain had accessed her bank account without permission while on board the International Space Station. She claimed that McClain had obtained her password and illegally accessed her account. The allegations triggered investigations by NASAs inspector general and the Federal Trade Commission, drawing widespread media attention.Federal prosecutors revealed that Wordens claims were false. Records showed she had opened the bank account in April 2018 and changed the login credentials in January 2019. Investigators also found Worden had provided McClain access to her accounts in 2015, and both had freely accessed the account until Worden changed the credentials. The investigation confirmed no illegal activity occurred while McClain was in space, disproving Wordens allegations.McClain, a West Point graduate and Iraq veteran, joined NASA in 2013 and recently served as commander of NASAs SpaceX Crew-10 mission, which launched in March and returned in August. McClain and Worden were married from 2014 to 2019. Their marriage ended amid bitter divorce proceedings and a custody battle over their son, who was six in 2018. Worden filed for divorce after McClain accused her of assault, though that case was dismissed. The divorce was finalized in 2020, during which the space crime allegations surfaced.U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett has scheduled Wordens sentencing for February 12, 2026. She faces up to five years in federal prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. Worden is permitted to remain on bond until sentencing. The case highlights the serious consequences of making false claims to authorities, particularly during high-profile personal disputes.
( Image credit : IMDb | Palm Royale Season 2 returns with higher drama and sharper conflicts. )

Palm Royale season 2 storyline

( Image credit : IMDb | Palm Royale Season 2 pushes Maxine into her toughest battles yet. )

Maxines fight to belong in Palm Beach society

( Image credit : IMDb | Palm Royale Season 2 brings back brighter visuals and deeper secrets. )

Palm Royale is an underdog story







Building Palm beach on the Pacific coast

Palm Royale season 2 is back, and the drama has only grown stronger. The series made its return on Wednesday, November 12, 2025, with the first episode of the new season. From now until January 14, 2026, viewers will get a new episode every week. With brighter colours, sharper conflicts, and deeper secrets, the show promises a season that pushes every character to their limit. And this time, Maxine Dellacortes fight to belong is tougher than ever.Season 2 picks up after a turning point in Maxines life. Once trying to fit into Palm Beach society, she is now pushed out after a very public and embarrassing breakdown. This makes her an outsider once again, but she refuses to stay on the sidelines. The new season shows Maxine trying to rebuild her name using her clever ideas and strong will.As this challenge opens, the show continues exploring its biggest question: how far will someone go to fit in? This connects smoothly to Maxines story, because every choice she now makes is driven by her need to prove she is worthy of standing with the richest and most powerful people in town.Maxines journey becomes even more complicated this season. She goes from being ignored to planning her next move in silence. Her goal is no longer just to enter Palm Beach high society; she wants to run it. But the path is full of hidden dangers.As she digs deeper into the world she once admired, she learns that Palm Beachs glamour is built on secrets, lies, and even crimes. This discovery pushes her to think smarter and fight harder, keeping the story moving with tension and curiosity.The heart of the show remains Maxines struggle as an underdog. From the start, Palm Royale has shown how someone with nothing can take on a world full of power and wealth. Season 2 continues this theme in a bigger way.The show asks the same question it has from day one: How much of yourself would you give up to get what someone else has? This helps connect the new season to the first, showing that Maxines fight is not only about money or status. It is also about identity, self-worth, and the choices she must make to fit into a world that constantly rejects her.While the story grows more intense, the world of Palm Royale also gets richer visually. Members of the production team, local historians, and preservation experts worked together to make the new seasons version of Palm Beach look as real as possible.The show does not actually film in Palm Beach because getting permission is very difficult, especially during the busy season. Even creator Abe Sylvia admits he understands why residents do not always welcome film crews. He joked that he dislikes filming signs in New York himself because shoots can be messy, and he knows Palm Beach prefers things neat and calm.Recent approvals for filming near places like Worth Avenue came with strict rules, such as shooting only early in the morning or outside peak traffic hours. These limits meant the team had to recreate most of Palm Beach elsewhere, on the Pacific coast.This choice created many fun reactions. Some Palm Beach locals pointed out tiny details, like palm trees looking slimmer than the ones in Florida. But overall, the recreated version is so close that many viewers say it feels like the real Gold Coast.
JT honours Girlalala while advocating for change

( Image credit : X | @BuzzingPop | JT: The Miami Rapper Making Waves Solo After City Girls Fame )

Rapper JT to contribute to funeral costs following Girlalala's death

( Image credit : X | @RedMedia_us | From City Girls to Solo Spotlight: Inside Rapper JTs Journey )

Who is rapper JT?

After the tragic killing of 21-year-old TikTok star Girlalala, American rapper Jatavia Shakara Johnson, a.k.a. JT, drew attention for stepping in to help cover her funeral expenses, sparking interest in her career, background and influence. Girlalala, whose real name was Maurice Harrison, was tragically murdered in Florida, prompting an outpouring of support online. Let's find out who JT is.According to Prime Timer, following the tragic death of TikTok creator Girlalala, JT posted a heartfelt tribute highlighting their life and the positive influence they had on others.Beyond expressing grief, she included hashtags like #protecttranswomen and #protectblackwomen, using the moment not only to mourn but also to urge action against hate and injustice.The 32-year-old American rapper contributed $5000 toward the funeral expenses of TikTok creator Girlalala, whose death has left the South Florida community reeling, as per TMZ. On the other hand, the authorities have reported that the fatal incident occurred on Friday evening in Lauderdale Lakes after an argument between Girlalala and her long-term boyfriend reportedly escalated.The Broward Sheriffs Office stated that officers found Girlalala in the front seat of a car, struck multiple times by gunfire. She was rushed to a nearby hospital but tragically did not survive.Police have identified her boyfriend, Shanoyd Whyte Jr, as the primary suspect; a firearm was recovered at the scene, and he was taken into custody on suspicion of first-degree murder.Jatavia Shakara Johnson, also popularly known as JT, first gained prominence as one half of the Miami-based hip-hop duo City Girls, which she formed with Yung Miami in 2017. Moreover, the pair earned widespread recognition with hits like Act Up and Twerk featuring Cardi B.Building on that success, JT launched her solo career in 2023, releasing the mixtape City Cinderella and singles including Okay and Ran Out, showcasing her distinct style and fearless approach to rap.
San Jose: Trans Day of Remembrance - Vigil & March

Date:

Saturday, November 22, 2025

Time:

5:00 PM - 5:00 PM

Event Type:

Protest

Organizer/Author:

San Jose People's Pride

Location Details:

St. James Park (on the corner of St John and First St), San Jose

TRANS DAY OF REMEMBRANCE - VIGIL & MARCH + ART BUILD



This Trans Day of Remembrance we honor all of our trans martyrs who have died at the hands of systemic and national oppression. This oppression affects not only Trans people but our siblings in the Immigrant community and the people of Palestine.



Join us Sunday 11/22 @ 5pm at St. James Park (on the corner of St John and First St) for a militant vigil. Protest and march against the parties responsible for Trans, Immigrant and Palestinian oppression and murder!



We will also have an art build before at the Peanuts Deluxe Cafe from 2-4PM. *Masking Required



WE DECLARE END TO THE DEPORTATIONS AND END TO THE GENOCIDE OF TRANS AND PALESTINIAN PEOPLE!
Although the C# 14 language was formally launched along with the .NET 10 framework a week ago, Microsoft has put the language update in view again. C# 14 features extension members, a new syntax for declaring extension properties and extension methods. Overall, C# 14s enhancements improve developer productivity and performance, the company said.

In a November 17 blog post, Microsoft introduced introduced C# 14, the latest update to the companys popular object-oriented language for .NET, and described extension members as the headline feature. Extension methods allow developers not only to declare extension properties and extension methods, but also to declare extension members that extend the type, rather than an instance of the type. These new extension members can appear as static members of the type extended. Extensions can include user-defined operators implemented as static extension methods.
Dave Silver, founder of REC Philly, walks outside his storefront on June 19, 2021, inside the Fashion District. Read more

REC Philly, a long-standing space for independent creatives and entrepreneurs to cowork and create in, is closing its Center City headquarters on Dec. 20.

In an email sent to REC Philly members on Monday, the organization announced the shuttering of its Fashion District 10,000-square-foot space, located at Ninth and Market Streets, due to unforeseen circumstances.

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We know this news may come as a surprise, and we do apologize for any inconvenience it may have caused. Well stay in touch with any updates, but until then, stay creative, the email stated.

Though the reasons behind the REC Philly closure are unknown, the announcement comes on the heels of Mayor Cherelle L. Parkers plans to revitalize East Market Street, which includes the tearing down of buildings on the 1000 block.

All active REC Philly members will have access to the space through the closing date, the email stated. After that, all memberships and app access will end and some refund options will be available.

This decision was made due to circumstances beyond our control related to the long-term sustainability of the space, the email states. It was not made lightly, and our team explored every possible option before reaching this point.

The announcement comes six years after cofounders Will Toms and Dave Silver opened the facility. The venture, originally named the Broad Street Music Lounge, started in Silvers North Philly basement. Thats where the duo  who met as high schoolers at Warminsters William Tennent High School  held concerts and community events for friends before launching REC in 2014.

They opened a 600-square-foot warehouse, located at Ninth and Dauphin Streets, a year later. And in 2019, they cut the ribbon on the Fashion District location, which housed a recording studio, performance stage, and coworking areas.

REC, an acronym for resources for every creator, also offered workshops, educational programs, grants, and networking events.

In 2022, REC Philly announced a $2 million investment from rapper Sean Diddy Combs and the organizations expansion into Miami. Following delays, that expansion was shelved.

While the Center City hub will close its doors at the end of the year, REC Philly will not be completely shutting down operations, just the space.

REC is not shutting down completely at this time. The space needs to close in order for the business to properly transition, the email to members states. Those transitional plans are yet to be announced.

Neither Toms nor Silver responded to media inquiries in time for publication.
Larry Arata seen here in 2021, used his connections with a nonprofit helping people in recovery to engage in sexual relationships with women seeking help for their opioid addictions, police said. Read more

After losing his son to a heroin overdose in 2017, Lawrence Arata devoted his life to helping people in addiction, founded an Upper Darby nonprofit to further that mission, and even ran a failed congressional campaign in which the opioid crisis was his tent-pole cause.

But behind the scenes, prosecutors in Delaware County said Wednesday, Arata twisted that mission, trading cash, gift cards, and other services from his nonprofit, the Opioid Crisis Action Network, for sexual favors from women who were desperate for help.

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One woman told investigators that she saw the relationship as transactional: He had what I needed, and I had what he needed, she said, according to court filings.

Arata, 65, has been charged with trafficking in individuals and patronizing prostitutes, as well as witness intimidation for trying to coerce some of the women he victimized to recant their statements to police, court records show.

Arata, of Villas, Cape May County, was freed after posting 10% of $500,000 bail.

His attorney, Ronald Greenblatt, said Arata had done nothing wrong.

The evidence that will come out in court will show his innocence, he said. Mr. Arata is a pillar of the community who turned the personal tragedy of losing his son to a drug overdose into a career of helping people.

Delaware County District Attorney Jack Stollsteimer, in announcing the charges, said Arata cynically and cruelly misused opioid settlement funds to satisfy his sexual desires.

I want to thank the courageous women in recovery who fell victim to Mr. Arata, as well as those working to help others find their way into recovery, for having the courage to come forward and trust law enforcement to stop this predator, Stollsteimer said. We heard you and we support you.

Stollsteimer said he believes other people may have been victimized by Arata and urged them to contact his office.

Investigators learned of Aratas alleged crimes in August, when a former program director at his nonprofit gave a statement to Upper Darby police, according to the affidavit of probable cause for his arrest.

The woman said Arata behaved inappropriately with his clients, kissed, them, touched them, and asked them to stay in hotel rooms with him. Some of the clients left the program because his behavior made them uncomfortable, she said, and she resigned from her position because of similar concerns.

Detectives later interviewed one of the women Arata had initiated a relationship with. She said that during one encounter in 2024, Arata approached her after a group meeting and said she looked like she could keep a secret.

At the time, the woman said, the weather had started to turn cold and, in need of a coat, she agreed to perform oral sex on Arata inside his car in exchange for gift cards. The woman told police she could not refuse, because she needed the benefits offered by OCAN to survive.

The woman said she saw Arata again in March, when he was doing outreach on 69th Street in Upper Darby. Hungry and in need of resources, she told police, she approached Arata and again performed oral sex on him inside his car.

Another woman, who lives in Atlantic City, said she and Arata had a yearslong sexual relationship. Arata met the woman while she was living in a recovery house in Chester, and she told him about her years of addiction and the time she spent as a sex worker in order to survive.

Arata began trading gift cards and cash for sex with the woman, she told police. Later, when she returned to Atlantic City, she said, Arata continued their relationship.

The woman said she needed the cash and gift cards to survive, and saw the arrangement as mutually beneficial. Earlier this month, Arata texted her from an unfamiliar phone number, saying police had confiscated his cell phone and urging her not to speak with investigators.

But Arata didnt just assault women in recovery, police said. A therapist who worked for his organization said Arata repeatedly told her she was beautiful, asked her to visit his hotel room in Chester, and once kissed her against her will.

Later, after police had begun to investigate Arata, he pulled the woman aside, accused her of making false allegations against him, and demanded she retract her statement, authorities said.

Other employees of OCAN said they had raised concerns to Arata about his methods, saying the repeated use of gift cards as an incentive to clients felt tantamount to a bribe, the affidavit said. He ignored or dismissed those concerns.

Arata told The Inquirer in 2017 that the death of his son, Brendan, inspired him to raise awareness on the lack of resources for people in active addiction.

Getting very busy on this issue was a way for me to deal with my grief, Arata said. This is not a partisan issue. This disease has killed Republicans and Democrats.

Arata ran unsuccessfully for Pennsylvanias Fifth Congressional District seat in 2018 as a Democrat, receiving just 925 votes.
Patrick Thornton, chief investigator for the Burlington County Prosecutor's Office, announced Tuesday that Nazeer Hameed has been charged with murdering two people in Maple Shade in 2017. Read more

For eight years, the mystery of who killed a Maple Shade woman and her 6-year-old son swirled in the South Jersey town.

The bodies of Sasikala Narra, 38, and her son, Anish, were found in their blood-spattered apartment by their husband and father, Hanumantha Rao Narra, in March 2017. They had been stabbed to death.

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In the end, the mystery was unraveled by a single drop of blood, prosecutors said Tuesday as they announced who they believe was the killer.

Nazeer Hameed, 38, has been charged with murder and related crimes in the double stabbing. Authorities say Hameed fled to his native India after the killings, where he remains today.

Hameed worked at Cognizant, a North Jersey tech company with an office in Philadelphia, alongside Hanumantha Narra, and lived in the same apartment complex as the family.

Patrick Thornton, the chief investigator for the Burlington County Prosecutors Office, said he could not reveal any information about Hameeds potential motives. But he said Hameed had stalked the family for some time before the killings and used his background in tech to hide his movements after the fatal stabbings.

Thornton said Hameed waited until Narra had left the apartment before attacking his family with a series of violent stab and slice wounds to their head and hands. Anish was nearly decapitated in the attack.

These innocent victims were defenseless during the horrific attack, Thornton said. Veteran officers said this was one of the most brutal crime scenes theyve seen in their careers, and they are still affected by the memory of it.

Hameeds indictment, according to Burlington County Prosecutor LaChia Bradshaw, was the result of a yearslong investigation that involved local, state, and federal law enforcement.

And while she said Tuesday that she was pleased to share the news of the charges against Hameed, she stressed that the work for law enforcement was far from over. Hameed is still living in India, and prosecutors in Bradshaws office are awaiting assistance from federal authorities to extradite him to New Jersey.

We urge the full cooperation of our two nations to send a message that those who commit crimes cannot escape accountability by crossing oceans, Bradshaw said.

Hameed was initially considered a person of interest in the case, and later identified as a suspect in 2019, when investigators found a drop of blood at the crime scene that did not belong to the victims.

 READ MORE: South Jersey man battles to collect $1M in life insurance on his slain wife, son

For the next five years, detectives attempted to compel Hameed to submit a DNA sample, but were unsuccessful. The Indian government agreed to assist in the collection of the specimen, but never acted on that agreement, officials said Tuesday.

A break in the case came in 2024, when Cognizant, the tech company Narra and Hameed worked for, sent local prosecutors the laptop Hameed used. A sample of his DNA was pulled from the device, and was ruled to be a match to the blood found at the crime scene.

Authorities continued to investigate in the months that followed and, on Tuesday, publicly announced his involvement in the crime.

Bradshaw vowed to work with federal authorities and the Indian government to bring Hameed to America to face criminal charges.

The passage of time does not lessen our resolve, she said. No border can stand in the way of justice, and the people of Burlington County deserve closure.

The Narras immigrated to America from the Prakasam district in Andhra Pradesh state, on Indias eastern coast.

After marrying, they moved to Maple Shade and later enrolled their son in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic School. Teachers there called Anish a beautiful child of God in speaking to reporters after his slaying.

Hanumantha Rao Narra could not immediately be reached for comment.

Through a lawyer, Sasikala Narras family in India said Tuesday they were relieved to hear that the killer had been identified.

Theyre very appreciative of all the work by law enforcement, Donald F. Browne Jr. said. It took a very long time, but thats how justice goes sometimes, and theyre very thankful that everyone kept fighting and kept trying to find the answer to this case.
A former West Philadelphia ward leader and onetime staffer for State Sen. Vincent Hughes was sentenced Wednesday to one year in federal prison for stealing more than $140,000 from his ward and a church where he served as a deacon.

Willie Jordan, 68, had pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud over the summer. During his sentencing hearing Wednesday before U.S. District Judge Harvey Bartle III, Jordan said that he was sorry and that there were no excuses for his misconduct.

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It was a bad decision, Jordan said. It was just wrong.

Bartle agreed, telling Jordan that although he appeared to have lived an otherwise noble life  dedicating his time and career to serving the public  stealing from institutions that sought to help people was inexcusable.

Whats so disappointing is you had a position of trust  and you abused that position of trust, Bartle said. And the amount of money you took were not insignificant sums.

Jordan for years was the unpaid leader of the 44th Ward in West Philadelphia and also a deacon at Mount Calvary Baptist Church in North Philadelphia. Prosecutors said that he had near-total control over the finances of both organizations, and that from 2020 to 2024 he took advantage of that status by writing checks to himself to cover personal expenses, including credit card and utility bills, purchases from airlines and furniture stores, and costs associated with a relatives funeral.

In all, prosecutors said, he stole more than $57,000 from the church and $85,000 from the ward, and often claimed the money was to reimburse the organizations for expenses they never incurred. To further conceal his wrongdoing, prosecutors said, he sometimes wrote false entries on checks memo lines, saying they were to pay for items such as Easter baskets or summer youth programs.

Much of the fraud occurred while Jordan was working in Hughes office, prosecutors said, where he was a longtime top aide and had a six-figure state salary.

Jordans attorney, Sam Stretton, said that Jordan retired from that job earlier this year amid the federal investigation into his crimes, and that he also is no longer a ward leader.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis Lappen said in court that the repeated nature of Jordans wrongdoing, and his status as a well-paid public employee, made his crimes stand out.

Hes somebody who should have known better, Lappen said.

Stretton said Jordan made a terrible mistake but is an otherwise good person. He said Jordan has already repaid the $57,000 he stole from the church and is continuing to donate hundreds of dollars per month to help cover its bills and other expenses. Jordan also is continuing to make restitution payments to the ward, Stretton said.

Several of Jordans relatives wept in the courtroom after Bartle imposed his sentence. The judge then paused and addressed Jordan again before adjourning the hearing.

Youre going to have to pay the price of your crimes, but there is life after prison, and I hope you will continue to be a useful and productive citizen, Bartle said. There is redemption.
Students from the Jubilee School commemorate the 1967 Philadelphia student walkout, where thousands of Philadelphia School District students demanded better treatment of Black students. Read more

The students walked together, chanting over the hum of Center City traffic, holding a homemade sign and shouting into a chilly November sky.

Hey hey! they yelled. Ho ho! Black history will never go!

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Fifty-eight years to the day after 3,000 youth and their supporters walked out of Philadelphia School District schools to protest conditions for Black students, a clutch of kids from the Jubilee School held a march Monday to commemorate that landmark action, which historians say was a seminal moment both for the city and school integration across the country.

 READ MORE: These Philly schoolkids marched against injustice 50 years ago, and police responded with nightsticks. Today, they inspire a new generation

Miles Matti, a fifth grader at Jubilee, a private school in West Philadelphia, walked with his brother, Theo, a third grader.

Were doing it because those kids had every right to be heard, said Miles, 10.

The timing of the celebration was important, organizers said  not just on the anniversary of the demonstration, but 20 years after Philadelphia became the first district in the United States to implement African American history as a graduation requirement.

For months, Jubilee students studied the walkout. They conducted research, wrote poetry, made plans for honoring participants in the demonstration, and mapped a route  from the old School District of Philadelphia headquarters at 21st and the Benjamin Franklin Parkway, to the Free Librarys central branch, where there would be music and stories.

The group honored four former Masterman students who, in 2020, won approval from the citys Historical Commission to have a marker permanently erected outside the old district building noting the 1967 walkouts.

Khaseem Bailey, a sixth grader with a strong voice and energy to spare, led the chants as the group, flanked by teachers, parents, and supporters, made its way down the Parkway.

It was important to remember, Khaseem said.

They were marching for Black rights and student rights, he said. And so are we.

It was not a flash mob

The Nov. 17, 1967, walkout took 10 years to plan, said Walter Palmer, now 91, and one of the chief architects of the event  a decade spent organizing, teaching nonviolent strategies, training students, pairing them with elders.

The time seemed right that November. By that point, Black students made up the majority of the districts pupils, and they attended integrated schools, but conditions were unequal.

Black students were harmed for using African names, wearing African clothing, said Palmer.

Organizers came up with a list of 25 demands  from allowing students to wear their hair in Afros to infusing Black history in the district curriculum.

It was not a mistake, said Palmer. It was not a flash mob. There were no cell phones; there were no microphones. These young people, they were just hungry.

Students pulled fire alarms and poured out of their schools, with many meeting at the School District of Philadelphia headquarters. Representatives were chosen to speak to then-Superintendent Mark Shedd, who took their requests seriously.

Newspaper accounts described the demonstration as being like a picnic, but then-Police Commissioner Frank Rizzo called in 100 officers in riot gear. They began swinging at students and releasing police dogs.

Fifty-seven people were arrested, and dozens injured, some seriously. The event made national headlines.

Marilyn Kai Jewett, another walkout participant, told the students their celebration was especially timely.

We cannot let anyone whitewash our history, Jewett said. We are under attack. We cannot stop  weve got to fight until we die. The evil will not prevail. Goodness always prevails. Just keep doing what youre doing.
Sweeping changes are coming to the Philadelphia School District, with officials promising large-scale school closings, co-locations, grade reconfigurations, and new construction over the next several years.

The district is launching a survey this week to gain more input into that plan after Superintendent Tony B. Watlington Sr. pushed back a November deadline to announce his recommendations amid concerns from school communities.

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But those working closely on the facilities planning process said Monday that four themes are emerging that will shape the recommendations: strengthening K-8 schools, reinvesting in neighborhood schools, reducing school transitions for students, and expanding access to grades 5-12 criteria-based schools.

 READ MORE: Philadelphia School District facilities survey

Heres what to know about each of the themes:

Strengthening K-8 schools

Many school programs with declining enrollment, or which operate in aging buildings, struggle to offer a full range of high-quality classes, activities, enrichment opportunities, and supports, the district said.

Students and teachers in K-8 schools need better spaces and staffing and more resources, and the district cannot achieve that in its current configuration  the district has 216 schools but about 300 buildings, many of which are in poor shape. And enrollment is unevenly distributed  some schools, particularly those in the Northeast, are overcrowded, while others have thousands of empty seats.

Citywide, there are 70,000 excess seats in district schools.

The district might merge two schools or co-locate multiple schools in a single building, said Claire Landau, a senior adviser to Watlington tasked with steering the facilities planning process. It might also invest in more suitable buildings.

Reinvesting in neighborhood high schools

Some neighborhood high schools lack a full range of academic enrichment and post-high school preparation pathways, while some smaller magnet high schools lack extracurricular programs and diverse enrichment opportunities, the district said.

Possible outcomes for reinvesting in neighborhood high schools include targeted building improvements, partnerships, and theme-based or career-connected programs in the districts traditional neighborhood high schools.

Reducing school transitions for students

Transitions for schools can be disruptive to learning and community connection. Research supports that students do better when they have fewer transitions between school programs during their pre-K-12 experience, the district said.

There are currently 13 different grade configurations in the district; the aim is to shrink that. To achieve this, the district could increase pre-K-8 schools and adjust grade configurations.

Expanding access to grades 5-12 criteria-based schools

Philadelphia community desires schools that allow students to learn in one community from middle grades through high school, the district said. (Some of those already exist  Masterman, for instance, and GAMP.)

To achieve that goal, the district could create more seats at existing 5-12 schools, or create new 5-12 pathways, with an eye toward neighborhood equity.

This is not going to be a plan that erases or proposes to move away from all of our more traditional middle school grade spans, but we will be looking for opportunities to provide more access to pre-K-through-8 programming and 5-through-12 programming  because of how much support weve heard for it from communities across this process as well as what the research shows as far as students doing better in these environments, said Landau.

The mayor weighs in

Mayor Cherelle L. Parker weighed in on the matter at a district hearing before City Council on Tuesday, saying she was in lockstep with Watlington and the school board president.

We need to recreate a comprehensive plan for repurposing every underutilized school building in the city of Philadelphia, Parker said.

But, the mayor said, that plan will have to include housing, and that includes housing for public servants and educators who deserve to live in the communities that they serve, along with thinking about access to the repurposing of those buildings, to aid us in our desire to build affordable and workforce housing in the city of Philadelphia.
Wallingford Elementary School in Delaware County. The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District is facing a $2.6 million budget deficit for the 2027-28 school year unless major budget cuts are made, district officials said on Tuesday night. Read more

The Wallingford-Swarthmore School District is headed for a $2.6 million budget deficit, district officials said during a presentation on Tuesday night.

At a meeting of the districts finance committee on Nov. 18, Superintendent Russell Johnston and business administrator DeJuana Mosley presented a dire picture of the school districts finances. Increased staffing costs, subpar inventory management, and costly building repairs have coincided with a shrinking revenue base in the district, officials said. Without implementing a cultural shift around spending, Mosley said, the district is staring down major fiscal problems for the 2027-28 school year.

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Bottom line, the district has a spending problem, Mosley said.

Why is Wallingford-Swarthmore facing a budget deficit?

District administrators say Wallingford-Swarthmores fiscal issues are largely related to runaway spending and insufficient recordkeeping.

The school districts budget has increased by 18%, or around $16 million, over the last five years. Administrators said the district has had to pour resources into its security, nursing staff, and costly building repairs that had been put off for years. On top of that, Mosey outlined a lack of inventory management, describing a culture across the district of just ordering stuff.

Johnston was hired earlier this year to replace former Superintendent Wagner Marseille. The school district parted ways with Marseilles in 2024 amid mounting criticism of his management style and spending decisions.

The districts unsustainable spending has been set to the backdrop of a decreasing tax base, officials said. The 2025 taxable assessed value in the school district is $2.6 billion, a $5.8 million decrease from 2024. The decrease resulted in a $174,000 loss in revenue.

School districts in Pennsylvania are limited by the Act 1 Index, a formula used to determine the maximum tax increase a district can levy (without voter approval). The index is calculated using the statewide change in wages, the nationwide change in school employee compensation costs, and an individual districts relative wealth. Wallingford-Swarthmores 2026-27 Act 1 Index is 3.5%.

Unlike neighboring school districts like Rose Tree Media, which has seen continued population increases and new construction, Wallingford-Swarthmore is small and almost entirely residential. Limited construction and growth leaves few opportunities to increase the districts tax base.

Around 20% of the districts revenue comes from state and federal subsidies. Mosey said poor recordkeeping had impacted state subsidy and grant revenue (the issue has since been cleaned up, she added).

How is the district planning to balance the budget?

If no changes are made, the school district is set to be short about $2.6 million for the 2027-28 school year. Mosley recommended the district cut the budget by double that amount ($5.2 million).

I know its alarming and its aggressive and its a lot, she said. Were trying to change the trajectory of what were doing.

Johnston said the district should look at cost savings that are furthest away from the classroom, citing examples like professional development and travel for staff, a reduction of the size of the districts capital plan, and a review of potential redundancies in services and staffing. He also suggested evaluating which services the district is required to provide and which are optional.

I almost have to take a deep breath when I say this out loud, but kindergarten transportation is not required, he said, offering cutting buses for kindergartners as an example.

Johnston emphasized that he was not making a suggestion to cut kindergarten transportation from the get-go, but was offering it as an example of an optional service the district provides.

What happens next?

The district has to present a 2027-28 budget draft by June of next year. Johnston and Mosley said they were deliberately bringing the budget process to the public months in advance to allow for ample conversations with teachers, staff, parents, and the school board.

In early December, Johnston will host optional community forums with school faculty and the community. The school boards finance committee will present a potential budget reallocation strategy at its Dec. 16 meeting. On Dec. 22, the board is set to vote on its reallocation expectations.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirers high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
The Michelin Guide star winners at Tuesday's announcement event at the Kimmel Center. Read more Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

What is a Michelin star?

A Michelin star is the most prestigious honor a restaurant can earn from the Michelin Guide and typically recognizes fine dining restaurants.

Restaurants do not apply to be inspected, nor can they be nominated. Anonymous inspectors visit restaurants repeatedly throughout the year  often on different days and at different times  and rate them on the following criteria, according to the guides website:

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Quality of ingredients Harmony of flavors Mastery of culinary techniques Consistency across menu and time How a chefs personality is reflected in the food

Thomas Keller high-fives the the Michelin Man during the announcements Tuesday at the Kimmel Center. Read more Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

Restaurants can earn up to three Michelin stars. One star is a restaurant that is worth a stop, according to the guide, for top-quality ingredients. Two stars is a worth a detour, while a three-star restaurant is worth a journey for cooking that feels like art. Three-star ratings are rare. Only New York Citys Sushi Sho hit the star maximum on Tuesday.

Stars are awarded annually, and restaurants can gain or lose Michelin stars over time, kind of like experience points in a video game. They can also be a big boost for business: Chefs told Eater that one Michelin Star is worth a 20% jump in sales, while other chefs have reported three stars can increase them up to 100%.

Which Philly restaurants earned Michelin stars?

Provenance, Her Place Supper Club, and Friday Saturday Sunday all earned one Michelin star at Tuesday nights ceremony.

Chefs Chad and Hanna Williams took over Friday Saturday Sunday in 2016, transforming the old Rittenhouse Square restaurant into a James-Beard Award winning tasting experience that mixes Caribbean, Asian, and soul food references. The long, narrow, lively, and warmly run restaurant is up a steep flight of stairs  and those stairs will seem even steeper when its time to leave," Michelin said of the restaurant, which plans to expand. Expect an atmosphere as spirited and enjoyable as the food.

Friday Saturday Sunday, run by chef Chad Williams and his wife, Hanna, earns a star at the Kimmel Center on Tuesday. Read more Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

Her Place Supper Club is another multicourse menu, only this one was born from the dinner parties chef Amanda Shulman threw in her college apartment while a student at the University of Pennsylvania. Shulman is known for explaining the inspiration and makeup of each dish as its set in front of diners, which Michelin wrote contributes to a a real communal feel.

Chef Nich Baziks Provenance is the youngest Philly restaurant to receive top honors, open for a year in August. Bazik oversees an elaborate, seasonal 20- to 25-dish tasting menu that combines French and Korean flavors often inspired by his wife, Bazik said at Tuesdays ceremony. Provenance is a high-wire, high-stakes performance defined by precision, Michelin wrote.

Provenance sous chefs Zac Cohen (left) and Nicholas Piwinski present a collection of canapes to guest at the Headhouse Square restaurant on Oct. 17, 2024. Read more Yong Kim / Staff Photographer

What is a Bib Gourmand?

The Bib Gourmand celebrates restaurants that serve exceptional food at great value, according to the Michelin Guides website. It was first announced in 1997 as a more budget-friendly companion to the stars.

Previous honorees range from Katzs  the iconic no-frills Jewish deli on Manhattans Lower East Side  and a counter-service-only sandwich stand in Atlanta, to small taquerias, dim sum restaurants, and the occasional hole-in-the-wall.

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Like Michelin-starred restaurants, Bib Gourmand awardees can use the designation in their marketing. In some cases, the honor has saved restaurants from closing.

A trio of cheesesteaks from Angelo's Pizzeria, which earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand on Tuesday. Read more Alejandro A. Alvarez / Staff Photographer

Which Philly restaurants earned a Bib Gourmand?

Ten Philly restaurants took home a Bib Gourmand on Tuesday night. Naturally, three of them were cheesesteak shops. Heres the full list:

Angelos Pizzeria Dalessandros Steaks Del Rossis Dizengoff El Chingon Famous 4th Street Deli Fiorella Pizzeria Beddia Sally Royal Sushi & Izakaya

Cemita clasica, remolacha, and al pastor tacos at El Chingon, which earned a coveted Michelin Bib Gourmand on Tuesday. Read more Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

What is a Michelin-recommended restaurant?

Michelin-recommended restaurants are simply establishments serving good food, according to the guides website. They are judged on the same five signature criteria as starred restaurants.

A restaurant in the Recommended selection is the sign of a chef using quality ingredients that are well cooked; simply a good meal, said Michael Ellis, the former international director of Michelin Guide books, in the post. It means that the inspectors have found the food to be above average, but not quite at star or Bib level.

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In other words, shoot for the stars and hopefully fall among the recs.

The Philadelphia chefs acknowledged at the Michelin Guide announcements Tuesday at the Kimmel Center. Read more Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

Like restaurants with a Bib Gourmand, those that earned recommendations can also use the notation as a marketing tool. Admittedly, the designation used to be a bigger deal before 2020, when Michelin digitized the guide. Before, recommendations were listed in bound red travel guides that the tire company first used as a sneaky promotion to nudge people to take more road trips (and thus, buy more tires).

Recommended restaurants are not precluded from earning stars later on. In fact, insiders think of it as a watchlist for establishments that might get a star in the future.

The hot tamales from Honeysuckle at 631 N. Broad St., which is now a Michelin Guide recommended restaurant. Read more Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

Which restaurants did Michelin recommend in Philly?

Michelin recommended 21 restaurants in Philly. They are:

Ambra Forsythia High Street Hiroki Honeysuckle Illata Kalaya Laser Wolf Laurel Little Water Mish Mish My Loup Pietramala River Twice Roxanne Southwark Suraya Vedge Vernick Food & Drink Vetri Cucina Zahav

Honeynut squash with husk cherry, habanero, and pumpkin seed tahini at Pietramala. The vegan Philadelphia restaurant earned a Michelin Green Star for sustainability, as a well as a recommendation. Read more Monica Herndon / Staff Photographer

Were there any other awards to take home?

Yes. Aside from earning a recommendation, chef Ian Grayes vegan Northern Liberties BYOB Pietramala also earned a Green Star for demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

There is no specific formula for awarding a Green Star, according to the Michelin Guide website, though criteria such as environmental footprint, the use of seasonal produce, resource management, and how food waste is treated are considered.

Ian Graye, of Pietramala earned a Green Star award at the Michelin Guide announcement event at the Kimmel Center. Read more Elizabeth Robertson / Staff Photographer

Chef Ian Graye seeks out foragers and small local suppliers for plants, herbs and fruits and also does his own fermenting and preserving, read the blurb included in the Michelin Guide for Pietramala. His menu offers a selection of around 10 dishes designed for sharing  around three per person should more than suffice when ordering  and his cooking comes with a slight Italian accent.
Representatives behind Phillys three Michelin starred restaurants are lauded for their culinary skills, hospitality, and showmanship. But the men involved with each of them also have this shared trait: Theyre all certified Wife Guys.

For those uninitiated, a wife guy is a colloquial way to refer to someone who is all about their marriage and finds ways to talk about their devotion whenever possible. (There are some instances where this phrase is used snarkily, but in this case, we mean it genuinely as a compliment and in earnest.)

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 READ MORE: A night of Michelin culinary stars and even a few cheesesteaks: Phillys big showing in the restaurant awards

When chefs Amanda Shulman and Alex Kemp stepped on stage to receive Her Place Supper Clubs one-star honor, Kemp stepped to the side, opting not to be photographed alongside the Michelin Man.

Amanda is the hardest working woman in show business, Kemp told The Inquirer on Wednesday. She deserves this. I felt super proud of her, but I didnt want to take her thunder.

While Kemp is part-owner of Her Place, Shulman founded the restaurant and is the face (and chef) of the project.

Emcee for the night, Java Ingram, remarked on stage how Kemps gesture to step aside was classy.

He wasnt the only one paying tribute to his wife that night.

Power couple Chad and Hanna Williams, who are behind star-winning restaurant Friday Saturday Sunday, also displayed their love for each other. Chad Williams could be seen on stage holding his wife and kissing her cheek after they received their award and Michelin jackets.

Love and partnership is the foundation of this restaurant, Williams later told The Inquirer of his display. We got married in the kitchen for Gods sake. To have earned a Michelin star is my greatest accomplishment but to have done it with my wife is a dream come true.

Finally, there was Provenance, the surprise of the night, pulling off a star within the ateliers first year of opening.

Michelin international director Gwendal Poullennec asked Nicholas Bazik on stage what his inspiration was. While holding the mic, he pointed to his wife, Eunbin Whang. Shes right over there, Bazik said as the crowd erupted in aws. Whang demurely approached Bazik on stage, covering her face, tearful and proud as Bazik draped his arm around her.

There would be no Provenance without my wife, Bazik told The Inquirer, citing her influence on his culinary identity, blending French and Korean culture and cuisine.

So is love a prerequisite to getting a star?

Bazik seems to think so.

Everybody needs a constant, something that can help center them. This is a hard job that oscillates between insanity and reality checks. Love is that thread.

Kemp concurs.

Or maybe its being a family guy, he quipped when asked by The Inquirer for his take. Amanda is a very easy person to love. Shes my best friend. We do everything together. We spend every moment of the day talking or working together.

He added, I love being a wife guy. Its cool being a wife guy.
Barely 12 hours after Michelin included the fine-dining destination Laurel among its list of Recommended restaurants, chef Nicholas Elmi delivered the news that its final night of service would be Friday.

Laurels closing after 12 years had been set in motion over the summer, as Elmi told The Inquirer in June that its lease was ending and that he wanted to open in Rittenhouse.

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Wednesdays announcement on Instagram included word that reservations were available for a seven-course meal prepared by Elmi and chef de cuisine Kevin McWilliams.

Although honored with the Michelin accolade, I feel like Ive known whats been going on over the past year, so Ive already gone through the whole gamut of emotions, Elmi said. Last night was incredibly motivational for me  it made me redouble my efforts and figure out what my next step is. So thats where I am: keeping my options open, keeping my eyes open, and trying to remain inspired.

The closing a week before Thanksgiving after a five-month wind-down was intentional. Everyones starting new jobs in December, so it lets them take a week and a half off, get through Thanksgiving, decompress a little before moving on to the next stage of their lives and careers, he said. And it gives me the month of December to clear the place out and get myself organized. Winding down a business isnt just flipping a switch  theres a lot of paperwork to get through right now.

Elmi said he was looking forward to family time as well as focusing on his Bala Cynwyd restaurants Lark and the Landing Kitchen, as well as the Pump House events venue, which he own with Fia Berisha.

Whats next for Elmi and Laurel?

The new restaurant will not be the same as Laurel, he said. As the culinary landscape of Philadelphia has changed, Laurel needs to be updated, whatever form that takes. There are a couple of different concepts were playing with right now. I think Michelin is certainly going to improve the aspect of fine dining in Philadelphia, and I want to take some time to figure out what that means to me in the context of how Ive grown up cooking and doing fine dining over the past 20 years.

He said he was unsure if the Laurel name will continue.: Theres a big part of me that understands Laurel is a recognized, branded name. But Laurel was also a little, tiny, beautiful restaurant stuffed into an apartment on a street in South Philadelphia. It was so intimate and so fun, and it represented a really cool moment in my life  being able to cook like that, and cook so freely.

Theres part of me that wants that to remain a memory, not only for myself but for the people who worked there and for the guests who came through over the past 12 years. So Im still struggling with the idea. Id love to carry the name on, but that name carries weight, and theres an expectation that comes with it. Moving into something different isnt off the table.
Chef Antonio Garcia (left) will balance being in the kitchen with being on the floor at his new restaurant, Taquero, in Media. He's tapped Jose Rigoberto (right) as his sous chef. Read more

Editors note: Taquero has pushed back its opening date and now plans to open on Dec. 1.

The longtime chef of Italian restaurant Ariano in Media is readying to open his own eatery on the same block, where hell turn his attention to paying homage to his Mexican roots.

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Chef Antonio Garcia began dreaming up Taquero about three years ago and set the plans in motion for his restaurant at 111 Veterans Square last spring. After more than 18 months of work to convert part of a former office building, Taquero will open Nov. 24.

The BYOB will look to set itself apart from other Mexican eateries in the borough by showcasing a mix of traditional and modern Mexican cuisine, with an emphasis on authentic dishes. The menu will give a nod to Garcias hometown of Toluca, while also sampling from elsewhere in the country.

In conceptualizing his restaurant, Garcia said he wanted to do something thats going to make me proud, for me and my family.

Some of the restaurants offerings are dishes his grandmother made when Garcia was a child, while others borrow from the street food scene in Mexico City, where he spent time before coming to the U.S. nearly 25 years ago.

Everybody says their grandma is the best cook. My grandma was, like, insane, Garcia said. Everything she cooked was so delicious.

One nod to her is fideo seco, a traditional Mexican pasta dish made with spaghetti-like noodles in a chipotle broth and served with queso fresco, crema, lump crab, and avocado.

Other entrees include carne asada, enchiladas, a Mexican-style pork chop, and Mexican-style paella, a spicier take on the Spanish version thats more chipotle-forward.

Appetizers will include guacamole; the popular street corn, elote; empanadas; and sopesitos, a tortilla-like base formed into a small bowl to hold toppings like beans. There will be soups, like pozole, made with seafood and hominy, and salads, including a beet-forward option and Garcias take on the Caesar salad. Taquero  which translates to taco-maker  will also have a selection of five tacos: fish, birria, carne asada, shrimp, and vegetarian, each served in housemade corn tortillas.

Desserts, including flan and xangos, a tortilla-wrapped cheesecake served with ice cream, round out the food offerings, which will change seasonally.

The BYOB will also offer three mixers: a traditional margarita, a paloma, and a daily special. Diners can bring beer, wine, or champagne, with no corkage fee, or sip on a selection of Mexican sodas or the fruit-forward agua fresca.

The restaurant will launch with lunch and dinner service, with a goal of adding breakfast in the new year.

In keeping with his desire to make authentic dishes, Garcia is using goods imported from Mexico, including various types of chorizo.

Garcia plans to split his time between the kitchen and the floor, tapping Jose Rigoberto, whos been working in the kitchen at Fellini Cafe for years, as his sous chef.

While Garcia has been focused on Italian cuisine, Media residents may have already sampled some of his Mexican dishes during Arianos Mexican Monday nights.

Arianos former owner, Anthony Bellapigna, encouraged Garcia to pursue dishes that were true to his roots, which helped lay the groundwork for him to open his own restaurant. Fittingly, Bellapigna also helped create the copper-topped tables in Taquero, which he, Garcia, and Rigoberto hammered by hand to create their dimpled designs.

The restaurant has been a labor of love for Garcia, who has been hands-on in the redevelopment of the space, including ripping up the drywall.

The restaurant spans roughly 1,200 square feet across the first and second floors of the three-story building. It has 14 seats on the ground floor, where diners can see into the kitchen, while the main dining room is on the second floor and features a selection of ceramic Mexican plates on one wall.

Seeing it all come together, Garcia said hes both nervous and happy, but with the opening on the horizon, hes more happy than anything.

Taquero will be open six days a week, from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, and 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, with dinner service starting at 4 p.m.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirers high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
For the first time ever, Philadelphia has a Michelin star. Three, in fact.

Friday Saturday Sunday, Her Place Supper Club, and Provenance were each awarded a star, capping a brilliant showing as 31 other Philadelphia restaurants  including three cheesesteak shops  received honors in the citys debut in Michelin, arguably the worlds most prestigious restaurant awards.

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Tuesday nights Northeast Cities ceremony  which included restaurants from Chicago, Washington, D.C., New York, and Boston (also in its Michelin debut)  drew hundreds of culinary professionals from around the world to the Kimmel Center, whose facade was lit up in Michelins signature red. The attendees were a whos who of the culinary world, including chefs Thomas Keller and Jean-Georges Vongerichten, and drew dozens of the citys best-known chefs and restaurateurs, such as Greg Vernick, Marc Vetri, Omar Tate, and Chutatip Nok Suntaranon, Jesse Ito, and Ellen Yin.

Ten Philadelphia restaurants received a Bib Gourmand  recognized as great food at a great value, though not star-worthy. They represent a mixed bag of cuisines and price points: cheesesteaks (Angelos, Dalessandros, Del Rossis), Israeli cuisine (Dizengoff), Mexican (El Chingon), pizza (Pizzeria Beddia, Sally), casual pasta (Fiorella), Japanese (Royal Sushi & Izakaya), and classic Jewish deli (Famous 4th Street Deli).

Michelin deemed 21 other Philadelphia restaurants as Recommended: Ambra, Forsythia, High Street, Hiroki, Honeysuckle, Illata, Kalaya, Laser Wolf, Laurel (whose final night will be Nov. 21), Little Water, Mish Mish, My Loup, Pietramala, River Twice, Roxanne, Southwark, Suraya, Vedge, Vernick Food & Drink, Vetri Cucina, and Zahav. Michelin says these restaurants serve high-quality food and use good ingredients.

Besides the Recommended honor, Pietramala  chef Ian Grayes vegan restaurant in Northern Liberties  was awarded a Green Star for demonstrating commitment to sustainability.

All can use the name Michelin in their marketing, a powerful tool that potentially boosts business.

Michelin, which operates in secrecy, bases the selections on its anonymous inspectors. Stars denote excellence: one star signals very good cuisine thats worth a stop, two stars indicate excellence worth a detour, and three stars represent exceptional dining worth a special journey.

The ceremony, a milestone for Philadelphias profile as a dining destination, was the citys highest-profile appearance since 2018, when the James Beard Foundation announced that years finalists for its annual chef, restaurant, and media awards in a ceremony at Parc.

It was a night of camaraderie, pride, and emotion. After heading to the stage to acknowledge Angelos Pizzerias Bib Gourmand, owner Danny DiGiampietro disappeared for a bit. I had a walk outside, he explained later. I cant stop crying.

Philadelphias one-stars

Friday Saturday Sunday chef Chad Williams and his wife, Hanna, took over this storied Rittenhouse restaurant in 2016 and pivoted to a set multicourse menu. Thanks to skilled technique, just the right amount of innovation and an innate understanding of the luxury ingredients he uses, his dishes fill the mouth with flavor and succulence, the Michelin blurb reads. His delicious crispy sweetbreads will convert any skeptic; quail with pate plays with texture, and the New York strip is a lesson in expert seasoning. Theres a great cocktail bar on the first floor; the long, narrow, lively and warmly run restaurant is up a steep flight of stairs  and those stairs will seem even steeper when its time to leave. Expect an atmosphere as spirited and enjoyable as the food.

Her Place Supper Club, also in Rittenhouse, was born out of chef Amanda Shulmans cooking for friends in her Penn campus apartment. Michelin praised its warm and welcoming supper club vibe. While diners may get their own table, theres a real communal feel at play here; everyone is served at the same time after Amanda has explained to the room the makeup of each dish and perhaps the influence behind it.

Provenance, chef Nicholas Baziks sumptuous atelier across from Headhouse Square, delivers what Michelin calls a high-wire, high-stakes performance defined by precision, harmony, and, of course, taste. Korean and French influences come and go with this elaborate tasting menu where special soys, vibrant oils and glossy sauces give wonderful dimension to pristine seafood and dry-aged proteins. Think Japanese tuna with whipped tofu, puffed sorghum and chili oil or brown butter hollandaise with country ham, caviar and cauliflower. The ideas are original, the flavors bold.

The Michelin effect

All this boils down to commerce. City and state tourism boards have increasingly turned to Michelin  the French-based tire company that has been publishing the influential dining guides for decades  as food tourism plays a growing role in travel planning.

Michelin has expanded rapidly in the United States over the last several years. Besides the American South region  covering Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee  there are guides for Texas and Colorado. Atlantas 2023 guide has since been rolled into the South. The Florida guide, launched in 2022, now includes Miami, Orlando, and Tampa. Internationally, it recently arrived in Qatar, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

The Philadelphia Convention and Visitors Bureau cites an Ernst & Young study, commissioned by Michelin, showing the guides influence: 74% of travelers consider Michelins presence a decisive factor when choosing a destination; 76% say they would extend a trip to dine at a recommended restaurant; and 80% report being willing to pay more for what they view as a Michelin-level dining experience.

For restaurants that receive distinctions, the impact is immediate as restaurants append Michelin to their social-media profiles.

The reservations boost can be dramatic. In Charlotte, the 18-seat Counter sold about 900 reservations in the days after earning a star at the 2025 American South ceremony on Nov. 3, booking out through mid-February, chef-owner Sam Hart told Axios. About half the reservations came from out-of-town guests, including some international travelers.

In many U.S. markets, the guide is explicitly part of tourism strategies: Axios has reported that the states included in the South edition are collectively paying Michelin $5 million over three years. PHLCVB has not disclosed how much it paid for Michelins partnership, which was announced in May.

Not only can reservations rise, so can menu prices at the winning restaurants. A widely cited 2018 analysis by Carly Shin of George Washington University found that a one-star rating increases menu prices by about 15%, two stars by 55%, and three stars by roughly 80%.

Michelin says that 82% of chefs report increased revenue after receiving a distinction, 60% add new staff, and 58% say a nod boosts team motivation and morale  though anecdotally, some chefs acknowledge enormous pressure to maintain such a high level.

Michelins arrival has inspired the PHLCVB Foundation to sponsor the Philabundance Community Kitchen program, a 16-week culinary vocational training and life-skills program for adults with low or no income, offering hands-on kitchen experience, ServSafe certification, and post-graduation employment support in the food service and restaurant industry. The foundation will connect the recognized chefs and restaurateurs to the PCK program.
Amadou Thiam, 50, enjoyed traveling, as seen in this photo on his Instagram. Read more

Philadelphia police are seeking to question two men in connection with the death of an American Airlines flight attendant who investigators believe was attacked inside his South Philadelphia home last week, then fell  or was thrown  out of his third-floor window.

Amadou Thiam, 50, was found lying naked on the pavement behind his home, on the 2400 block of Federal Street, with severe injuries to his face, neck, and body on the night of Nov. 10, police said. He was rushed to Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, where he later died from his injuries, they said.

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The medical examiner has not yet determined the cause or manner of Thiams death, but homicide detectives are investigating, said Deputy Police Commissioner Frank Vanore. Vanore stopped short of saying Thiam was attacked, pending the coroners decision, but law enforcement sources familiar with the investigation said Thiams injuries, coupled with witness interviews and evidence recovered inside his home, suggest he was assaulted.

Residents of the Grays Ferry block this week recalled the harrowing moments when they found Thiam  and the chilling departing words of the men police are now looking to question.

Two neighbors, who asked not to be identified for fear of reprisal, said they heard loud noises coming from Thiams condo around 6:30 p.m. last Monday but assumed he was having guests over.

Then, they said, they heard a loud crash behind the building.

Shortly after, they said, they saw two men walk out of Thiams home.

Is everything OK? one neighbor recalled asking the men. They just kind of chuckled and said, We hope so.

The neighbors said they approached Thiams door, which was left cracked open, and found blood smeared across his kitchen and third-floor bedroom. Thinking Thiam was not home, they called the police to report a burglary.

As the couple waited for police, they said, they noticed a stream of blood on the sidewalk outside. And then, they said, they saw Thiams body on the pavement.

Vanore said it was not clear how Thiam ended up on the ground, but police believe he went through a third-story window.

We still dont know if he fell or was thrown, he said.

Thiam suffered injuries throughout his body, including fractures to his face, ribs, and skull, Vanore said.

Detectives have recovered video from the block showing two men  one older, one younger  in the area around the time Thiams body was found, he said.

Vanore described one of the men as a thin Black male wearing a black leather jacket over a red hoodie and jeans and carrying a bag. The second man, he said, was older, bald, and wearing a gray jacket.

Were looking to talk to them to see if they had anything to do with this, he said.

Law enforcement sources, who asked not to be identified to discuss an ongoing investigation, said the men appeared to be carrying clothes out of the building. There were no signs of forced entry into Thiams home, the sources said.

Relatives of Thiam, who was originally from Cote dIvoire, could not be immediately reached.

His Instagram account showed a man who enjoyed exploring the world: standing before Hotel de Paris Monte-Carlo and the Arc de Triomphe in Paris, and eating in Key West, Fla., and Las Vegas.

His death has shocked many who knew him, including his colleagues at American Airlines.

A spokesperson for the airline did not respond to a request for comment. But in a memo shared online, an operations manager for the Philadelphia region said Thiam had worked as a flight attendant with the airline since 2011 and, as a French speaker, he frequented international flights to Paris and Zurich.

His presence and natural charisma was always something felt throughout a room, the employee wrote. He was a loyal friend whose kindness, positive attitude, and radiant smile touched everyone around him.

John Stanley, a fellow American Airlines flight attendant, said that every July, there is a benefit for flight attendants at Voyeur, a nightclub in the Gayborhood, with dancers and drag performers. He recalled how one year, Thiam dressed up as Glinda from Wicked and performed for the crowd.

He was as well-liked a flight attendant in Philadelphia as I know exist, Stanley said.

Thiams neighbors also said he was exceptionally friendly, and loved to dress in eccentric clothing. He was also a dog lover, a passion that neighbor Nicole Colamesta said they bonded over.

Everybody is having a really hard time processing it. This is a really quiet block. Everybody just looks out for each other here, Colamesta said. You cant stop thinking about it because its right in our backyard.

Police asked anyone with information to contact homicide detectives at 215-686-3334 or to call the police tip line at 215-686-8477.

Staff writer Maggie Prosser contributed to this article.
President Donald Trump, center, speaks with reporters as, from left, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, Rep. Zachary Nunn, R-Iowa, Rep. Randy Feenstra, R-Iowa, and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem listen as they arrive on Air Force One, Friday, July 4, 2025, at Joint Base Andrews, Md. Read more

SNAP benefits are restored, and the program is funded through next year. But the Trump administration is now looking to completely deconstruct the program, its top USDA official said.

Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins said that millions of low-income Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program recipients will have to reapply for their benefits as part of an effort to crack down on fraud.

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Its going to give us a platform and a trajectory to fundamentally rebuild this program, have everyone reapply for their benefit, make sure that everyone thats taking a taxpayer-funded benefit through SNAP or food stamps, that they literally are vulnerable, and they cant survive without it, she told Newsmax last week.

On Tuesday, Rollins told Fox Business that her plan is for the U.S. Department of Agriculture to completely deconstruct SNAP.

However, there is no official guidance from USDA on the plans Rollins spoke of and the rules have not changed, said Community Legal Services staff attorney Mackenzie Libbey.

Most SNAP recipients in Pennsylvania are already required to reverify household and income information every six months. SNAP recipients should continue submitting their semiannual reports and annual renewals as the current rules require, Libbey said.

In a statement, the USDA did not confirm the existence of new changes to SNAP. Instead, a spokesperson for the agency said the standard recertification processes for households is a part of that work.

Are SNAP benefits changing?

There are a few changes to SNAP work requirements that were implemented on Sept. 1 and Nov. 1.

President Donald Trump in September signed new requirements into law that denied states the ability to waive work requirements for most SNAP recipients. Work requirement waivers are now available only for specific reasons, such as pregnancy, needing to be home to care for someone ill, or participation in a drug or alcohol treatment program, to name a few.

On Nov. 1, some older low-income Americans were forced back to work when Congress and Trump passed additional work requirements, raising the maximum working age cap from 54 to 64 years old.

Parents with dependents age 14 and over also must go back to work or lose benefits. Previously, SNAP recipients with dependents under 18 did not have to meet work requirements. Veterans and former foster youth ages 18 through 24 are no longer exempt from work requirements either, under new federal law.

Do you have to reapply for SNAP benefits?

SNAP recipients do not currently need to reapply to the program. SNAP recipients should continue filing their semiannual reports every six months to recertify their income and household.

Will snap benefits be issued in December?

Yes. The SNAP program is funded through Sept. 30, 2026, after Congress reached an agreement on a spending deal last week. Most other federal government agencies and programs are funded only through Jan. 30.

Congress will need to strike another spending deal before the January deadline; otherwise the federal government could be shut down again.

However, SNAP benefits have been guaranteed through next September regardless of another shutdown.

How do you qualify for SNAP benefits?

SNAP requirements are based on your work hours and income. Other factors, like whether a member of your household is disabled, elderly, or a veteran, can provide households with additional benefits.

Resources:

Work requirements

SNAP recipients must be working, volunteering, or participating in an education or training program for at least 20 hours a week (or 80 hours a month). They also must report those work hours.

These rules apply to you if you:

Are ages 18 through 64. Do not have a dependent child under 14 years old. Are considered physically and mentally able to work.

Income requirements

Households cannot exceed these monthly income limits to be eligible for SNAP benefits.

Household Size Maximum Gross Monthly Income Household Size 1 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $2,510 Household Size 2 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $3,408 Household Size 3 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $4,304 Household Size 4 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $5,200 Household Size 5 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $6,098 Household Size 6 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $6,994 Household Size 7 Maximum Gross Monthly Income $7,890 Household Size Each additional Maximum Gross Monthly Income Add $898

How to apply for SNAP

Apply for SNAP online, in person, or by mail.
The Bistro at Cherry Hill, as photographed in 2023 by Janel "Jaycee" Miller, a freelance reporter for 70and73.com, a local news site. Read more

The owner of the beleaguered Bistro at Cherry Hill, a longtime mall fixture that closed this summer amid bankruptcy proceedings, has been indicted on charges of tax fraud.

The New Jersey Attorney Generals Office announced the indictment against Andrew Cosenza Jr. on Tuesday, saying an investigation found that he had failed to send the state more than $270,000 in sales tax paid by Bistro customers in 2021 and 2022.

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The 57-year-old Cherry Hill resident was indicted Oct. 29 on several charges, including tax fraud.

Everyone is required to pay their fair share of taxes, New Jersey Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin said in the statement. This form of tax fraud will not be tolerated.

Cosenza did not return a request for comment on Tuesday. No defense attorney was listed on court documents as of Tuesday, and an attorney representing Cosenza in a new Chapter 11 bankruptcy case did not return requests for comment.

 READ MORE: Is the Bistro at Cherry Hill closed for good? Its owner says no, despite bankruptcy.

Cosenza had owned the Bistro at Cherry Hill for more than 25 years. The beloved restaurant operated out of a 12,000-square-foot kiosk in the middle of the Cherry Hill Mall. This summer, it closed abruptly, saddening loyal customers.

In July, Cosenza told The Inquirer that the sudden closure was the result of a communication breakdown regarding a Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition that he filed in May. It was the restaurants second bankruptcy filing since 2017.

While Cosenza was incapacitated by medical issues over the summer, he said the Bistros Chapter 11 bankruptcy petition had been converted to a Chapter 7, which involves the liquidation of assets, without his consent. Cosenza said his brother showed up to open the Bistro on July 10 and found the doors locked.

This is not a case of mismanagement or inability to meet financial obligations, Cosenza said in a July interview. He said that the bankruptcy was the result of lingering pandemic-related issues and that he had a plan for repaying his debts.

In early October, the Bistros bankruptcy case was dismissed. Cosenza told The Inquirer on Oct. 10, two weeks before the indictment, that he planned to keep fighting to reopen the Bistro. On Oct. 15, he filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy as a small-business debtor.

The charges against Cosenza stem from a 2023 joint investigation by the New Jersey Division of Taxations Office of Criminal Investigation and the Division of Criminal Justice. Investigators said they found discrepancies between the gross sales tax amounts that Cosenza reported on his business tax returns and the amounts turned over to the state.

If found guilty of the charges, Cosenza could face five years or more in state prison and fines of more than $150,000, according to the prosecutors office.
Mohammed Rabee, 48, sits with his grandchildren beside photos of his 14-year-old son, Amer Rabee, a New Jersey boy who was killed by Israeli soldiers while in a roadside thicket in the West Bank in April. Read more

Amer Rabee, a 14-year-old Palestinian American from Saddle Brook, N.J., was shot and killed by the Israeli military this April.

In July, his grieving brother, Mehdi, waited for hours in an overflow room at the Statehouse in Trenton to testify against a bill to adopt the controversial International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism. He explained that restricting criticism of Israel would suppress his familys ability to seek justice.

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The presiding lawmaker cut him off mid-testimony and told him to stay on the bill.

How would you feel if your representatives silenced your plea for justice?

I previously served in the New Jersey General Assembly and on the committee considering this legislation. I returned to Trenton to testify because IHRA poses a grave risk to free speech and academic freedom at a moment when students like Rumeysa Ozturk are being arrested, immigrant communities face detention, and federal authorities plan to classify what they define as anti-Americanism, anti-capitalism, and anti-Christianity speech as a national security threat.

Institutional hostility

As one of the first Muslim Americans to serve in the New Jersey Legislature, I know institutions can be hostile to minority communities.

Yet, nothing prepared me to see grieving Palestinian Americans and allies systematically discriminated against by their own elected representatives. This is the danger of enshrining IHRA into law: It empowers the government to decide whose perspectives are valid and whose grief can be ignored.

The IHRA definition, introduced in the U.S. by a 2019 Trump executive order, has been widely criticized by the American Civil Liberties Union, legal scholars, and human rights advocates for conflating criticism of Israeli policy with antisemitism. It chills the speech of Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, Jews, and allies who oppose Israeli state violence. Moreover, there are no legislated definitions for anti-Black, anti-immigrant, or anti-LBGTQ hate. Alternative frameworks, like the New Jersey Statement, address antisemitism without conflating the Jewish community with Israel.

Champions of IHRA include the Heritage Foundation, the Trump administration, and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Controversial support

In New Jersey, some sponsors have faced controversy. Assemblyman Gary Schaer, the prime sponsor, was forced to fire his chief of staff for anti-Black, anti-Palestinian, misogynistic, and anti-Muslim statements.

Assemblywoman Melinda Kane invoked IHRA to shut down a preapproved student walkout in Camden County, claiming the phrases Free Gaza and Stop Bombing Gaza are antisemitic. Assemblyman Roy Freiman reportedly sent police to a pro-Palestine activists home for expressing interest in running against him.

These are not hypotheticals. IHRA will give legal force to discrimination.

Public hearings are meant to allow residents equal opportunity to testify. I witnessed the opposite. Supporters of IHRA were given advance notice of a room change and priority seating. Critics, many of them people of color, were told seats were reserved and were relegated to overflow rooms.

What happened in Trenton is a preview of how speech in support of Palestinians could be stifled nationwide.

The Rabee family was denied entry into the main chamber even as seats sat empty for hours. Mehdi Rabee ultimately waited more than seven hours with only an audio feed before being allowed to speak.

When clergy, teachers, journalists, and scholars testified that the bill would stifle discussion of human rights violations in Palestine, they were heckled and cut short. Even Holocaust and genocide studies professor Raz Segal and Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Chris Hedges were cut off mid-testimony by the chair.

Despite the hostility, Rabee ended his testimony with grace: In remembrance of my brother who is now in heaven, thank you.

Some supporters responded, We see you, and we love you.

The chair reprimanded the audience and slashed speaking time for the remaining witnesses to one minute. This disproportionately impacted more than 250 people who had signed up to oppose IHRA, many of whom had not yet testified.

What happened in Trenton is a preview of how speech in support of Palestinians could be stifled nationwide.

A moral obligation

Combating antisemitism is a moral obligation, as is confronting anti-Palestinian racism, anti-Muslim bigotry, and all forms of hate. Silencing Palestinians, Muslims, Jews, and allies who oppose Israeli policy does not combat prejudice.

The Rabee familys ordeal is a warning. If lawmakers can suppress a grieving family, they can silence any one of us. Laws that curb dissent on Israel will be used to penalize other perspectives disfavored by those in power. Already, scholars are fleeing the country due to threats.

At this critical moment, lawmakers must reject censorship and defend every persons right to speak freely.

Sadaf Jaffer is a former New Jersey assemblywoman and former mayor of Montgomery Township. She was the first Muslim woman to serve as mayor of a municipality in the United States and in the first cohort of Muslim Americans elected to the New Jersey Legislature.
The Texas Capitol lit during a session in the State Senate on August 22, 2025. Read more

A federal court has blocked Texas from using its new congressional map for the 2026 midterm elections, directing the state to revert to its previous districts.

The majority opinion said the coalition of voting and civil rights groups who sued was likely to prove at trial that Texas officials had racially gerrymandered a new map that unconstitutionally sorts voters on the basis of race, depriving the plaintiffs of their right to participate in a free and fair election.

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The judges were under a tight deadline to make a ruling since the candidate filing period for the 2026 midterm elections began on Nov. 8 and ends on Dec. 8.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, a key proponent of the electoral changes, said he would appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court.

Any claim that these maps are discriminatory is absurd and unsupported by the testimony offered during ten days of hearings, Abbott said. This ruling is clearly erroneous and undermines the authority the U.S. Constitution assigns to the Texas Legislature by imposing a different map by judicial edict.

The decision marks a significant setback for the state and Republicans, which began with a contentious battle in its state legislature last summer, led to a vote to revise state maps for voting districts, and ultimately spurred other states to buck tradition and pursue mid-decade redistricting.

Two judges, in a three-judge District Court panel, ruled on Nov. 18 that the injunction was necessary because the racial minorities the Plaintiff Groups represent will be forced to be represented in Congress based on likely unconstitutional racial classifications for at least two years.

The majority opinion, written by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown, a Donald Trump appointee, who sits in Galveston, Texas, was joined by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Guaderrama, a Barack Obama appointee, in El Paso.

U.S. Circuit Judge Jerry E. Smith, who was appointed to the bench by President Ronald Reagan, is expected to file a dissenting opinion.

A Republican majority in the Texas legislature in August 2025 passed the new state congressional map after a weeks-long standoff with state Democrats. Their new law, at the urging of President Donald Trump, heavily advantaged the GOP in 2026 elections. If used, it could have potentially flipped as many as five Democratic-held seats to Republican control  a significant edge as the party maintains a slim majority in Congress.

In his statement, Abbott said the Texas legislature passed the new maps to better reflect Texans conservative voting preferences  and for no other reason.

The court ruling and any decision by the U.S. Supreme Court could push back the filing deadlines for the Texas primaries for 2026. The midterm general election includes the seat of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, D-Texas, all the Texas House of Representatives and Senate seats, and the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general.

Republicans said redistricting targeted Democrats

The ruling came more than a month after 10 days of testimony and arguments over the legality of the new redistricting map at the federal courthouse in El Paso. The key testimony during the hearing came from Adam Kincaid, executive director of the National Republican Redistricting Trust, who created the maps.Kincaid testified that he looked at no racial data when building the map, solely relying on targeting districts that historically voted for Democrats.

He said he combined Democrat-leaning districts into one district. He took Republican portions of those districts to create their own districts. The outcome gave Democrats one less representative, adding more representation for Republican voters.

Kincaid and Republican leaders said the redistricting was done race blind. He testified he targeted Democrats, not minorities, which is allowed under the U.S. Constitution.

Voting rights groups say redistricting targets minorities

Democratic leaders and voting rights representatives argued during the hearing that the only districts targeted and impacted were Hispanic and Black majority districts. Hispanic and Black voters historically vote for Democrats.

In Texas, voters are not required to register by political party. They are free to vote in the primary of their choosing.

The redistricting map suppresses the voice of Texas minorities, including Hispanics, who make up the largest minority population in the state, Democratic state leaders testified in the trial.They are not built to give Hispanics or African Americans a candidate of their choice, Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, testified about the new maps.

Democrats and voting rights advocates questioned why Trump focused on four districts and why they were the only districts that were dramatically altered. They said Republicans had already created the map before discussions were held in the Texas Legislature and the public had an opportunity to comment on it.

Thats not Texas, testified Rep. Ramon Romero, D-Fort Worth. Thats not how we do things here.

The redistricting vote that sparked a chain reaction

The Texas legislators efforts earlier this year sparked a national redistricting war across several states, as Democratic and Republican governors responded with their own efforts to redraw maps. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently landed a victory in a voter-approved measure to implement new districts likely to add more Democratic representatives.

But that matter is also entangled in a court challenge, after the administration on Nov. 13 joined the California Republican Party to accuse the state of violating the Constitution by gerrymandering using race as a factor to favor Hispanic voters in the new map.
Staff members arrived at the Delaware County Republican Party headquarters in Media on Wednesday morning to find the buildings glass door shattered.

The apparent vandalism appeared to have occurred overnight, said Frank Agovino, the party chair. The Media Police Department, he said, is investigating.

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The incident comes a year after the local party had to call police to the same office when protesters cornered two volunteers ahead of the presidential election.

Its just a sign of the times, unfortunately, Agovino said. Theres some people who just refuse to be civil about political disagreements.

It was unclear who damaged the office or their motive. However, according to photos shared to Facebook by the Delaware County GOP, a sign identifying the office as a Republican office was posted on the door above the broken glass.

The Media Police Department did not immediately comment on the incident.

Political violence has become increasingly common across the United States in recent years, including the September killing of right-wing activist Charlie Kirk.

Agovino called for state and federal officials to consider stricter penalties for the perpetrators of such violence.

People that are working in the political arena need to be protected, he said.

This suburban content is produced with support from the Leslie Miller and Richard Worley Foundation and The Lenfest Institute for Journalism. Editorial content is created independently of the project donors. Gifts to support The Inquirers high-impact journalism can be made at inquirer.com/donate. A list of Lenfest Institute donors can be found at lenfestinstitute.org/supporters.
City Councilmember Isaiah Thomas on the first day of Council's fall session in September. He authored legislation to strike parts of the city's resign-to-run rule. Read more

Philadelphia City Council is attempting once again to change city law to allow members to keep their jobs while running for higher office, an effort that has already failed three times in the last 20 years.

Maybe the fourth times really the charm?

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This attempt is a little bit different. A Council committee on Wednesday advanced legislation to change the 70-year-old resign-to-run rule that requires city officeholders to leave their jobs while campaigning for another office.

But the legislation  which must be approved by a majority of voters through a ballot question  doesnt repeal the rule entirely. It merely narrows it to allow members to keep their seats if they are seeking state or federal office, such as seats in Congress or the state General Assembly.

Under the new proposal, Philadelphias resign-to-run rule would remain in place for members seeking a city office, like mayor or district attorney.

 READ MORE: What is Phillys resign-to-run rule?

That distinction makes the rule change more likely to become reality, said Councilmember Isaiah Thomas, who sponsored the legislation even though voters rejected attempts to eliminate the rule in 2007 and 2014.

More than a year ago, Thomas proposed that the city try again to eliminate the rule entirely. But this week, he amended his proposal to apply only to those seeking state or federal office, calling that a compromise.

I personally think that you should be able to run for mayor and keep your seat in City Council, Thomas said. But thats not what the majority of people who Ive talked to feel. And I dont think that this should be about how I feel. It should be about whats best for the city.

A necessary measure or a barrier to entry?

Thomas, a Democrat in his second term who represents the city at-large, is one of several Council members rumored to have aspirations for higher office. But there is not currently an obvious seat for him or his colleagues to seek.

The earliest a rule change could be implemented is next year  too late for a Council member to run without resigning in the crowded and closely watched race to succeed retiring U.S. Rep. Dwight Evans (D., Philadelphia).

Thomas said he is not currently interested in serving in Washington  he has two young children  but said he has some amazing colleagues who may want to run for Congress in the future.

The resign-to-run rule has been codified in the Home Rule Charter since 1951 when the charter was established. Proponents have long said that public servants should not be influencing policy while campaigning for another office.

But others contend that the rule  which applies to Council members, row office holders, and members of the mayors administration  creates an unnecessary barrier for people who want to run for higher office but cant financially withstand giving up their salary.

The rule also recently led to a handful of lawmaker vacancies. In 2022, six of City Councils 17 members  including now-Mayor Cherelle L. Parker  resigned to run for mayor, at times making it complicated for the citys legislative body to govern.

Ethics questions emerge

Multiple ethics officers said they oppose the change as its currently proposed. Jordana Greenwald, general counsel for the citys Board of Ethics, said the board was not involved in drafting the rule change, and has a handful of technical concerns about its implementation.

What we dont want is for this to be passed and then it to become something where there are unintended problems or pitfalls for people who choose to take advantage, Greenwald said.

Thomas said there is plenty of time to address the boards concerns before passage. He is hopeful the legislation can be passed in time for a question to appear on the 2026 primary election ballot in May.

But Lauren Cristella, CEO of the good-government group Committee of Seventy, questioned the urgency and said Council should give the Board of Ethics time to do its due diligence.

While the Committee of Seventy has supported past attempts to repeal resign-to-run, Cristella said she does not understand the purpose of a carveout for members seeking state or federal office.

And she said any repeal should be paired with a three-term limit for Council members, who are currently not term limited.

Philadelphians deserve comprehensive, not piecemeal, reform here, she said.

Several Council members said they support Thomas legislation, pointing out that state and federal lawmakers do not need to resign from their jobs to seek higher office.

Its an issue of consistency across the board, said Councilmember Cindy Bass, a Democrat who represents parts of North and Northwest Philadelphia. Its crazy when everyones doing something different.
Mayor Cherelle L. Parker faced criticism last week for quietly eliminating racial diversity goals from city contracting in what appeared to be a preemptive concession to the conservative legal movements dismantling of affirmative action.

But this week, Parker is going on the offensive. The mayor said she was eager to eliminate the citys racial participation targets long before the current legal threats to the policy emerged, saying the citys 40-year-old effort to use its contracting process to boost diverse businesses had failed.

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Did the Supreme Court ruling have anything to do with our decision-making? Absolutely, Parker said Monday, referring to a 2023 ruling that threatened race-based affirmative action programs. But it wasnt the impetus for it. I ran on providing access to economic opportunity for all here in the city of Philadelphia.

That case, Students for Fair Admissions v. Harvard, could mark the beginning of the end for a wide variety of government programs that seek to boost diversity or aid people of color.

 READ MORE: Philadelphia is halting the use of some diversity targets in city contracts as national DEI backlash grows

In her first extensive comments since The Inquirer reported Parkers administration had ended race- and gender-conscious contracting policies, the mayor defended her decision Monday at a last-minute roundtable meeting she organized in Northwest Philadelphia with business leaders.

And she doubled down during a news conference Tuesday at the African American Chamber of Commerce headquarters, where she signed an executive order codifying the citys shift to favoring firms that are registered as small and local.

We knew the system was broken years before, Parker, the citys first Black female mayor, said. Because every time we would look at the numbers and we would want to see how many Black and brown and women and disabled business owners were growing in the city of Philadelphia, the numbers became stagnant.

 READ MORE: Philly Council president says Mayor Parker was strategic in dropping diversity contracting goals

Historically disadvantaged firms win city contracts worth more than $370 million annually, and supporters of the program criticized Parker for not fighting to preserve it.

City Councilmember Kendra Brooks of the progressive Working Families Party said Parker was caving to President Donald Trump, whose administration has sought to roll back policies on diversity, equity, and inclusion.

People want to see leaders fighting for something, Brooks said last week, and right now we dont see our city fighting for anything.

But Chief Deputy Mayor Vanessa Garrett Harley said Monday that the administration examined the Philadelphia Office of Economic Opportunitys registry of disadvantaged businesses that should get a leg up in city procurement opportunities, and found that only 20% were actually winning contracts.

Obviously, it was not working, Garrett Harley said.

Parker said that setting diversity goals was not enough to grow women- and minority-owned businesses. Instead, she said, they need technical assistance, access to capital, and other tools so that they can develop to the point where they are able to regularly compete for city contracts without relying on set-asides.

Her administration is focused on providing those resources, she said, and not just checking boxes.

Im fighting, Parker said. But Im fighting the fight the way I know best: to achieve the results and act and extract the tangible results that I need for the people who live in this city, who own businesses in the city.

Small and local: A new world for city contracting

Parker on Tuesday signed an executive order detailing citys new contracting system. As previously detailed in The Inquirer, the city will now give preference to small and local firms rather than requiring participation for businesses owned by women, minorities, and people with disabilities.

The executive order does not set a target goal for what share of city contracting dollars should go to small and local businesses.

The citys previous goal of directing 35% of contracting dollars to disadvantaged firms was similarly not enumerated in law. Instead, Parkers order outlines a structure for setting benchmarks and providing assistance to firms seeking to do business with the city.

For example, it charges the economic opportunity office with setting overall contracting goals, as well as establishing participation ranges for individual contracts. Those ranges will be used to give contractors benchmarks for money that should be set aside for subcontractors and suppliers that are considered disadvantaged businesses.

The office is also responsible for maintaining the registry of small and local businesses. Garrett Harley said the overwhelming majority of businesses that are registered with the city as minority-, women-, or disabled-owned will qualify as small and local.

Nadir Jones, the citys director of business impact and economic advancement, said firms already registered with the city will be grandfathered in and will not need to register again as small or local.

To qualify as local, a business must either be headquartered in Philadelphia city limits or meet two of three other criteria:

More than 60% of employees live in Philadelphia. More than half of the business employees work in the city at least 60% of the time. More than 75% of the business gross receipts came from Philadelphia.

To qualify as small, Jones said, a business must have fewer than 750 employees.

Parker said her administration is working with outside advisers to hone the program. That includes the African American Chamber of Commerce, which announced Tuesday it had established a Special Task Force on Economic Access and Procurement in response to the contracting changes.

We will continue to advocate for policies that are not only measurable and defendable, but also those that produce real impact, said Regina Hairston, the organizations president and CEO. However, as we have recently learned, these policy changes are happening whether we fully support them or not.

A risk-averse legal strategy

Parkers elimination of racial diversity targets in city contracting  due in part to the hypothetical threat of litigation raised by City Solicitor Renee Garcia  in some ways parallels the mayors decision earlier this year to settle a lawsuit challenging a city tax break that primarily benefited small businesses.

In both instances, critics said that the Parker administration overstated the legal jeopardy the programs faced and gave up without a fight. But there are key differences between Parkers handling of the contracting goals and the tax break, which exempted firms first $100,000 in revenue from the business income and receipts tax, or BIRT.

If anything, there was less of an immediate threat to the citys contracting diversity goals, which are not facing any legal challenge. The administration instead preemptively abolished its racial diversity targets due to rulings on separate issues, such as affirmative action in college admissions or the citys project labor agreements.

The catalyst for Parker eliminating the BIRT exemption was a 2024 lawsuit filed by a Massachusetts medical device manufacturer challenging the constitutionality of the tax break. Critics of Parkers decision argued that if the city had fought it in court, the case could have been thrown out because the company may have struggled to demonstrate harm, given that the tax break actually benefited the firm.

Instead, the city settled with the company, and Parker pressed Council to remove the tax break from city law.

 READ MORE: Why a popular tax break that helped Philadelphias small businesses may be going away

During the debate over the BIRT exemption, Garcia said Philadelphia could potentially lose hundreds of millions of dollars in tax revenue if it didnt cave to the legal challenge. Critics of the citys approach cast doubt on whether that was a realistic outcome.

But in the case of the contracting DEI goals, the potential risks articulated by the administration are far less dire.

Garcia said Monday the primary financial risk involved in maintaining the contracting diversity program is that if the city ever did get sued, and then lost a protracted court battle, it may have to pay the plaintiffs attorneys fees.

She also cited the possibility of creating unwanted legal precedent if the hypothetical lawsuit against the city reached the U.S. Supreme Court and lost  something that could still happen if a suit is filed against any of the hundreds of jurisdictions across the country that still have racial participation goals in contracting.

This way, we do it on our terms, Garcia said. We have time to build it. We have a plan.

The most important difference between the business tax and contracting issues is that Parker was in favor of the BIRT exemption but does not support the old contracting system.

In her budget address in March, Parker said she was begrudgingly seeking to end the tax break because state judicial rulings, in the administrations view, had forced the citys hand. But when it comes to the citys contracting practices, Parkers aims in some ways align with those seeking to undo longstanding city policy on diversity in contracting.

The administrations messaging on the issue has become somewhat mixed. On one hand, Garcia said Parker was anguished when she realized she had to make changes to the contracting system due to the legal environment.

She did not want to do this, Garcia said.

On the other hand, Parker said she has long planned to reform the contracting system. Asked if her policy goals or new legal rulings were driving the decision, Parker said: Its both. Its not either/or.

We are building something that does not exist here in the city of Philadelphia, she said. We are asking you to join the fight with us.
President Donald Trump lashes out at Bloomberg's Catherine Lucey aboard Air Force One en route to Palm Beach, Florida, on Friday. Read more

President Donald Trump is drawing widespread criticism after lashing out at a female reporter who was pressing for information about files related to Jeffrey Epstein.

As Trump was speaking to reporters Friday on Air Force One, Bloomberg White House correspondent and former Philadelphia Daily News reporter Catherine Lucey attempted to ask him about the release of the so-called Epstein files, which the Trump administration has refused to make public.

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If there is nothing incriminating in the files  Lucey said before being cut off.

Quiet, quiet, piggy, an angry Trump shot back while pointing at Lucey.

Neither Lucey nor Bloomberg has responded to The Inquirers requests for comment.

Our White House journalists perform a vital public service, asking questions without fear or favor, Bloomberg said in a statement to the Guardian. We remain focused on reporting issues of public interest fairly and accurately.

Lucey, who has not spoken publicly about the matter, was first identified by the Guardian and can be seen in photographs of the interaction with Trump on Air Force One.

Trumps remarks drew criticism from across the media world. CNN anchor Jake Tapper called the presidents remarks disgusting and completely unacceptable. Former Fox News anchor Gretchen Carlson called the presidents comments degrading.

The president continues to behave in ways that not a single parent I know would tolerate from their elementary-school-aged kids, wrote the Atlantics McKay Coppins.

A White House official defended the remark in a statement to MS NOWs Vaughn Hillyard, claiming without evidence Lucey behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane. The official did not elaborate.

Though the exchange took place days ago, video footage began circulating Tuesday ahead of a House vote on the Epstein files. It has since gone viral among the masses, drawing ire from critics and being reposted by outlets like Pop Crave.

Trump has a history of making sexist comments toward female journalists. He has called women in the press corps nasty, crazy, and losers over the years. He also has used derogatory language about women, comparing them to pigs, dogs, and other animals.

Before her time in D.C., Lucey was a respected reporter in Philadelphia, spending 12 years at the Philadelphia Daily News covering everything from police corruption to local news  but her sweet spot was politics. Her portfolio included coverage of then-Mayor Michael Nutters administration and the citys changing power dynamics.

Lucey left in 2012 to work for the Associated Press, focusing on Iowa state politics and presidential races for four years. From there, she headed to the Wall Street Journal, where she covered the Trump and Biden administrations. She joined Bloomberg in March, according to a news release.

Trump also drew criticism Tuesday afternoon after lashing out at ABC News reporter Mary Bruce, who also asked about the Epstein files during an Oval Office meeting between the president and Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Why wait for Congress to release the Epstein files? Bruce asked. Why not just do it now?

Its not the question that I mind, its your attitude, Trump shot back. Youre a terrible person and a terrible reporter.

Until recently, Trump had strongly opposed efforts to release the Epstein files. Last week, he called the Houses efforts to press the Department of Justice to make the files available a Democrat hoax.

Trumps social connections to Epstein have been known for decades. Reports show Trump was mentioned in Epsteins emails more than 1,000 times, making him the most-cited person in the documents released last week by the House Oversight Committee.

But Trump has been reversing his stance on releasing the files, saying on Air Force One, we have nothing to hide.

On Tuesday, the House of Representatives passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act in a 427-1 vote, demanding the Justice Department release the unclassified documents on Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who was convicted of sex trafficking.

The Republican-controlled Senate moved quickly Tuesday evening, agreeing to pass the Epstein bill by unanimous consent once it arrived from the House.

The bill would then head to Trumps desk, who said in recent days he would sign it into law.
The compromise agreement on Omni's affordable housing apartment project would put a large surface parking lot in front of the buildings. Read more

An affordable housing project slated for a junkyard in Cedar Park took a step forward Wednesday, when a Philadelphia judge rejected a neighbors challenge. The courtroom victory brings the 104-unit, two-building project, which was conceived in 2020, closer to reality.

Common Pleas Court Judge Idee Fox ruled that the new zoning of a triangular group of parcels on Warrington Avenue, which allows for buildings up to seven stories, was legal.

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Melissa Johanningsmeier, who lives next to the planned development, sued the city to stop the project in 2023, arguing that the building was inconsistent with the citys goal of preserving single-family homes in Cedar Park.

Johanningsmeier said in court filings she would be harmed by the parking, traffic, and loss of green space if the project were to proceed.

The homeowner told Fox during a two-day October bench trial that there was widespread discontent with the project in the neighborhood.

The judge seemed skeptical, as Johanningsmeiers attorney didnt provide witnesses or evidence to support claims of widespread backlash to the project that has been promoted by City Councilmember Jamie Gauthier.

It was not for her to decide whether the project was the best idea, Fox said, but whether the zoning was constitutional.

If the community is unhappy with whats being done, they have the right to express their concerns to the councilwoman at the ballot box, Fox said.

Junkyard controversy

The project dates to 2020, when New York affordable housing developer Omni formulated plans to add 174 reasonably priced apartments to the West Philadelphia neighborhood.

But the developers plans for the junkyard at 50th and Warrington met opposition due to the proposed buildings height  six stories  and parking spaces for less than a third of the units.

Omnis plan required permission from the Zoning Board of Adjustment to move forward, which was more likely to succeed with neighborhood support. So they compromised.

A new design unveiled in 2021 pushed the buildings back to the edge of the site, to avoid putting neighboring homes in shadow. A surface parking lot would offer 100 spaces for the 104 affordable apartments.

These concessions appeased almost all of the critical neighbors and community groups. Many of them supported Omni before the Zoning Board of Adjustment, which granted the project permission to move forward.

But Johanningsmeier remained a critic. She lives on the border of the property and challenged the zoning boards ruling in Common Pleas Court. Judge Anne Marie Coyle ruled in her favor, arguing the new building would unequivocally tower over the surrounding family homes.

In the aftermath, Gauthier passed a bill to allow the project to move forward without permission from the zoning board. Johanningsmeier then sued over that legislation as well.

Affordable housing and fruit analogies

The issue at the heart of the case was whether a zoning change to allow for large multifamily buildings was considered spot zoning on the small parcel, which Johanningsmeiers lawyer argued was inconsistent with the types on buildings on surrounding properties.

Just because the mega apartment buildings are for residential use doesnt make the project similar to the surrounding zoning, which mostly allows single-family homes and duplexes, Edward Hayes, a Fox Rothschild attorney representing Johanningsmeier, told Judge Fox on Wednesday.

A cranberry and a watermelon are fruit, Hayes said. They are not the same.

And while affordable housing is a laudable cause, the attorney said, that doesnt mean that the city should shove it down the throat of a community in the form of large buildings that are out of character with the rest of the neighborhood.

An attorney representing the developer, Evan Lechtman of Blank Rome, told the judge existing buildings of similar height are nearby, across the railroad track in Kingsessing.

We are transforming a blighted, dilapidated junkyard into affordable housing, the developers attorney said.

Johanningsmeiers lawyer, Hayes, declined to comment after the ruling, which could be appealed.

Gauthier celebrated the outcome as a victory against gentrification.

Lower-income neighbors belong in amenity-rich communities like this one, where they can easily access jobs, healthcare, groceries, and other necessities, said Gauthier. I hope the courts ruling puts an end to gratuitous delays.

Housing advocates note that the years of neighborhood meetings and lawsuits over the project are an example of why housing, and especially affordable units, has become so expensive to build in the United States.

In the face of determined opposition from even a single foe, projects can incur millions in additional costs.

Its a travesty that one deep-pocketed opponent has been able to block access to housing for over 100 families in my neighborhood for years, said Will Tung, a neighbor of the project and a volunteer with the urbanist advocacy group 5th Square. Its more expensive than ever to rent or buy here, and this project would be a welcome change to its current use as a derelict warehouse.
The Philadelphia Housing Authority (PHA) is planning sweeping layoffs that will affect almost 300 of the agencys 1,200 employees, beginning in January 2026.

The cutbacks are the result of dramatic changes in how PHA, which provides affordable housing to thousands of families across the city, does maintenance and repair work. Instead of directly employing union electricians, carpenters, and other workers, beginning next year, the agency will contract out for those jobs as needed.

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This is a housing program, it is not a jobs program, said Kelvin Jeremiah, the president and CEO of PHA, in an interview.

Do I use the resources that we have to protect residents, to advance the availability of affordable housing to the families that are most in need? Or do I use those limited resources to fund positions that I dont need? Jeremiah said.

There are 620 members of the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council employed full-time by the agency as maintenance staff. Jeremiah estimates that by almost halving that number PHA will see a cost savings of $24 million annually.

The agency said it currently costs $15,500 to maintain a single unit of traditional public housing annually, due to the agencys complex work rules, which require many different union workers to make repairs. Most other multifamily providers have dramatically lower per-unit maintenance costs.

PHA has engaged the unions throughout this process and can proceed with this policy decision without additional approvals, an agency spokesperson said in an emailed statement.

Although in-house building trades workers will constitute the majority of lost jobs, other positions will also be affected, including 33 managerial roles in PHA headquarters. Overall, PHAs workforce will shrink by about 20%.

We are going to talk and try to offer some alternatives, but this is an issue of price sensitivity and we have to understand, given the new environment, that there are less funds to do the same mission with, said Ryan Boyer, business manager for the Philadelphia Building and Construction Trades Council, whose unions represent many of the affected workers.

More with less?

The cutbacks come amid an aggressive $6.3 billion plan unveiled earlier this year, through which the agency hopes to expand its housing portfolio by 7,000 units while rehabbing the 13,000 units it already owns.

Jeremiah said that the staff reduction should not be seen as PHA doing more with less, and that it will not limit the agencys ability to execute his planned expansion.

We will not be doing less than what were doing now, but we have been doing too little with too much, Jeremiah said. He said other market-rate and affordable housing multifamily operators are able to do unit repairs for far less than what PHA pays.

My colleagues have all been doing this at substantially less cost, Jeremiah said. The only difference between us is that they have an operating model that does not require six different trades to do a single thing.

Because PHAs layoffs will affect hundreds of members of Philadelphias influential building trades unions, Jeremiah said, he has been negotiating with Boyer on the work-rule changes.

My reaction is one of disappointment. However, we remain partners with PHA and we will still build most of the stuff on the capital side, Boyer said. I dont want it to be lost that when they build stuff, they will still be members of the Philadelphia building trades working, and there will still be members doing maintenance work.

Boyer is also the business manager for the Laborers District Council and a close ally of Mayor Cherelle L. Parker.

Jeremiah said maintenance technicians, laborers, and painters will be the only trades that remain directly employed with the agency after the work-rule changes go into effect.

The electricians union, IBEW Local 98, said it is still studying PHAs new policy.

PHA will also still work with the trades for discrete repair and maintenance jobs within the agencys housing portfolio but will no longer directly employ as many workers full-time, Jeremiah said.

The Trump effect?

PHAs layoffs, and its expansion plan, are unfolding during a period of uncertainty nationwide for affordable housing policies and organizations like PHA.

Some housing experts were surprised to see PHA embark on its ambitious $6.3 billion plan amid President Donald Trumps skepticism of affordable housing programs and a raft of austerity measures from his administration, which has sought to reduce public support for lower-income Americans.

Nearly all of PHAs funding  93%  comes from the federal government, according to the agency.

If Congress and the administration coughs, it impacts us, Jeremiah said. If there is a reduction [in funding], it impacts us.

Jeremiah said he is seeking to operate within the mandates set by Trumps administration while continuing to support PHAs tenant base and plans.

Subsidizing employment  is just not the way to go at a time when were looking at less funding on the horizon, Jeremiah said. Where am I to get the funds not only to do more developments, acquire more, and preserve what we have at the same time [that] we have a workforce that is, quite frankly, I will dare to use the word bloated?

Waves of layoffs

Despite the layoffs, Jeremiah believes the agency will still be a rich source of jobs for the building trades unions as the $6.3 billion plan unfolds. He points to an analysis of PHAs 10-year plan by economic consulting firm Econsult Solutions, which said it would create 4,900 jobs annually in the city.

The first round of 260 job losses will hit in mid-January 2026, although Jeremiah says 93 of those workers will be retained in new positions as maintenance aides, laborers, and painters. A further 116-position reduction will occur next summer.

A vice president of development, Greg Hampson, also recently left PHA, although the agency declined to comment on that case. Jeremiah said that several vice president and director-level positions will be among the coming layoffs.

The last major round of layoffs at PHA was in 2016, when 14% of the staff was cut. Those positions were mostly administrative roles.

Editors note: A previous version of this story misstated the number of employees impacted.
The tower housing a W and an Element hotel is pictured here in the foreground of other Center City high rises. Read more

When a Marriott representative visited the construction site of the W Philadelphia hotel in Center City in January 2019, months after the project should have been completed, the concrete floors were so uneven that a pen placed on the ground rolled downhill.

The construction of Philadelphias largest hotel, home of the W and the Element, both part of the Marriott umbrella, began in 2015 and had a strict 2018 deadline for completion. Delays led to an avalanche of nearly 30 lawsuits with the sites owner, construction contractor, and design company pointing fingers at each other.

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The W, which comprises 295 rooms of the 51-story building, eventually opened in 2021, roughly three years late.

Bringing to a close 25 of the lawsuits, a Philadelphia judge issued a 69-page memo last week laying out the saga and finding the construction company responsible for the project going off the rails.

Common Pleas Court Judge James Crumlish found that the construction contractor, Tutor Perini Building Corp., subcontracted the concrete work to a company that botched the job. And despite knowing about the problems, which were detrimental to the entire project, Tutor denied the issues for months.

The judges finding comes after trial testimonies that took five months as the parties turned this litigation into a challenging behemoth that made any effort at resolution impossible, Crumlish wrote.

A yearslong saga

The saga began when Chestlen Development LP, the owner of the site, picked Tutor as the construction manager. The agreement capped the cost of construction at $239 million and required completion within 1,017 days after April 2015.

An attorney for Tutor did not respond to a request for comment.

From the outset, Tutor suffered chronic turnover of its personnel, the judge wrote, resulting in the loss of institutional knowledge of key decisions.

Tutored subcontracted the concrete work to Thomas P. Carney Inc. Construction, a Bucks County company.

When a different subcontractor, Ventana DBS LLC, began installing the wall-window systems, they immediately noticed a big problem, according to the judges memo. In many places the concrete wasnt level or did not meet the elevation requirements in the design.

Tutor pushed back, denying that there was a problem, while quietly attempting to grind the edges of the concrete slabs to address the issue.

While denying the problem, Tutor hired outside advisers to evaluate the concrete work. But they confirmed the problem too.

Finally, in March 2018, Tutor shared the outside reports that acknowledged Carneys shoddy concrete work with Chestlens representative for the project.

As summer 2018 began, it was clear that the project would not be completed on deadline.

In September 2018 Tutor asked Chestlen for an extension, which the owner rejected, saying the request came months if not years after some of the concrete issues started to become apparent, according to Crumlishs memo.

The remediation of the floor began in April 2019 and was completed in October.

The building finally obtained a certificate of occupancy in April 2021. But Marriott couldnt open the W until August because over a hundred window vents were inoperable because Tutor failed to follow the design.

Tutor knew that the floors did not meet specifications but did not timely disclose its knowledge to Chestlen or consult with it, Crumlish wrote. The judge further found that Tutor refused to work with contractors to remediate the problems in 2017 and 2018, and proceeded to install interiors over the deficient concrete floors.

The blame game

Throughout the litigation, the parties all blamed one another for various problems and aspects of the delay.

Costs and liens piled up.

Chestlen paid Tutor $239 million for the construction, accrued over $40 million in damages as set in its contract with Tutor, and paid tens of millions to remediate the floors. The property is clouded with over $155 million in liens, according to the judges memo.

Crumlish concluded that Tutor breached its contract when it failed to oversee the concrete work and the window-wall installation, and generally didnt fulfill its obligations.

Every delay in the performance and completion of the project is the responsibility of Tutor and Carney, the judge said. The judge will decide on the amount of damages following hearings scheduled for January.

Chestlens attorney was unavailable to provide comment. Carney did not respond to a request for comment.

The W hotel is located where One Meridian Plaza used to be, before that building suffered a devastating fire in 1991 and was finally demolished in 1999.

Filling the vacant lot, a mere block from City Hall, became a top priority for policymakers during Mayor Michael Nutters time in office. The hotel proposal eventually received $75 million in taxpayer support across local, state, and federal funding sources in addition to other legislative assistance.

The project was developed by Brook Lenfest, son of the former Inquirer owner H.F. Gerry Lenfest, whose foundation continues to own the newspaper today.
When a new hire accepts a position at Phelan Insurance Agency, senior management send them a welcome personal note. When the employee arrives for their first week of work, theyre met with a welcome basket that targets the employees favorite interests and foods. Finally, senior management takes the new hire to lunch on their first day.

The effort that Phelan puts into welcoming new hires is a microcosm of the culture that pervades the third-generation, family-owned agency based in Versailles, Ohio.

We mean what we say, and we say what we mean, said Brent Phelan, co-president and CEO. The agencys commitment to looking after its employees and prioritizing their well-being led Phelan to be named the Midwest 2025 Best Agency to Work For Bronze Award winner.

For Brent Phelan, the award is a recognition of the effort he and his brother Todd have put into making the agency feel like a place where employees can communicate in an honest and constructive way while presenting their best selves at work.

Several years ago, Brent and Todd Phelan asked a committee of employees to provide feedback on whether the brothers were succeeding at communicating the agencys vision and culture. The project evolved over time, and about three years ago the committee came out with a vision known as First at PhalenF: Family. I: Integrity. R: Reputation. S: Stability. T: Trust.

Underpinning the vision is the notion that employees are people first, said Brent Phelan.

They said, We feel like this is a family business, you understand that our kids have games and concerts and everything else. As long as we get our jobs done and serve our customers, its okay we need to prioritize events for our family youre always willing to work around that.'

Employees who nominated the agency reiterated the ways Phelan gives employees the autonomy to do their jobs to the best of their ability while also having time to tend to things that come up outside of ones job.

Phelan Insurance is the best of both worlds for me, wrote one employee. It is located in the small town I live in and is everything I love about a family-owned and family-oriented business.

Another employee added, Whether through flexible scheduling, remote work options, or other forms of support, the agency consistently shows that our people come first. This understanding allows employees to care for their families when it matters most, and it inspires genuine loyalty in return.

That employees feel so strongly about the way Phelan encourages a healthy balance between work and family is no accident. Brent Phelan and his brother Todd are intentional about listening to whats going on in their employees lives.

A few years ago, they took every associate out to lunch individually. We just said, Hey, tell us about your family. Tell us whats going on. Tell us what we could be doing better,' said Brent Phelan. Every year we try to do something a little different like that just to make sure were listening to our people. And thats what it is.

Another way Brent and Todd Phelan receive feedback is by sending out an annual anonymous survey that asks employees what the agency is doing well and what areas it can improve. The survey is a simple but constructive way to understand how to meet employees needs.

Everybody would like to make more money and have more vacation. I get it, said Brent Phelan. But if you let them talk, youre going to find out the other nuances.

Topics Leadership
One worker died and two were injured in a trench collapse at a construction site in a popular seacoast town on Cape Cod, Massachusetts.

The trench collapse happened on Tuesday morning at a sewer project work site located at 152 South Shore Drive in Yarmouth.

Police and fire crews arrived at 8:50 a.m. to find workers trapped following the collapse of the trench.

One worker managed to escape the trench. The rescue teams providing lifesaving measures were able to save another worker who police said was buried up to his waist. The rescue took five hours.

About 2 p.m., Yarmouth Fire Chief Enrique Arrascue told reporters that one worker had died and was still inside the trench. The first responders removed the body of the third worker at about 2:45 p.m.

The Barnstable County Technical Rescue Team assisted the Yarmouth first responders.

The accident site is near Parkers River Beach and the Skipper Restaurant and Chowder House. Due to the on-going investigation into the incident, police closed the area between the beach and the restaurant.

A state coalition of union, health, safety and community advocates called for an investigation of Revoli Construction, the excavation company hired for the sewer work.

The company has a troubling history of significant health and safety violations, including prior incidents that raised serious concerns about their commitment to worker safety, Tatiana Sofia Begault, executive director, of the Massachusetts Coalition for Occupational Safety and Health (MassCOSH), claimed in a statement.

According to federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) records, there have been six referrals and complaints against Revioli since 2016. Earlier this year Revoli was cited for failing to maintain a safety program which provides for frequent and regular inspections of jobsites, materials, and equipment. In 2023, OSHA cited the firm for an inadequate system to protect employees from potential cave-in from the unsupported walls of an excavation.

Begault commended the Yarmouth Fire Department and all first responders for their extraordinary courage and dedication in such a dire situation and described the rescue efforts as complex and challenging.

The incident is under investigation by local, state, and federal authorities including OSHA.

Topics Training Development Construction
An oil tanker that was seized by Iranian forces last week has been freed but without its cargo, the vessels manager said.

The crew of the Talara, which was captured on Friday, are safe and in good spirits, Columbia Shipmanagement said in a statement. The ship, which had been carrying high-sulfur gasoil when it was boarded, is currently sailing in ballast condition, Columbia said, meaning it has no cargo on board.

The incident was the first time since April 2024 Iran seized a ship passing through its waters near the vital Strait of Hormuz waterway, raising fears that Tehran was again targeting merchant vessels in retaliation against Israel and its Western allies. But Iranian state media said the ship had been detained for unspecified violations.

The Talara was boarded by helicopter and taken to the Iranian coast, Western military forces in the region said. Its unclear what the alleged violations were, and Columbia added that no allegations were made against the vessel and its crew, managers or owners.

Vessel tracking data compiled by Bloomberg show that the vessel was sailing away from Iranian waters early on Wednesday. Its draft fell, indicating at least some of the oil on board had been removed.

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics Energy Oil Gas Trucking
The European Unions top diplomat said that Moscows aggression against the bloc, including an explosion that occurred in Poland over the weekend, should be considered terrorism.

These sabotage acts they are organizing on our territories in different countries are extremely, extremely serious, Kaja Kallas, the high representative for foreign affairs at the European Commission, said at a Bloomberg event Tuesday.

She quoted an earlier statement from NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in February when he said that hybrid incidents committed by Russia should be called state-sponsored terrorism.

Read more: Polands Tusk Says Act of Sabotage Behind Railway Explosion

An explosion over the weekend damaged a key Polish rail link used to transport crucial shipments to Ukraine. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk blamed Russia for the attack, which he called probably the most serious act of sabotage in the country since the start of Moscows full-scale invasion.

The EU is grappling with how to respond to an onslaught of cyberattacks, signal jamming and misinformation campaigns attributed to Russia. The EU last month adopted its 19th package of sanctions against Russia, stepping up its effort to chip away at Moscows ability to wage its war against Ukraine.

Kallas, a known Russia hawk, has always been outspoken in calling out Moscows hybrid activities, even as other leaders have been more cautious in ascribing blame for the incidents.

Tusk said on Monday that an explosive device destroyed a railway track close to the village of Mika, around 100 kilometers (62 miles) from the capital. Damage was also discovered elsewhere on the same route.

Both acts occurred along a crucial link connecting Warsaw and the Ukrainian border crossing at Dorohusk, Tusk said. The two suspects left Poland for Belarus after the attempt to derail the trains. NATO is in close contact with Polish authorities and will await the outcome of the investigation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov rejected the accusation. It would be very strange if Russia were not the first to be blamed, he said, adding that Russophobia is flourishing in Poland.

What they are trying to achieve right now is to sow fear within our societies so that we would refrain from helping Ukraine, Kallas said in Brussels. She added that Russia wants the EU to stop helping Kyiv because this is coming to our home turf now.

In the past Poland has repeatedly blamed Moscow for an alleged increase in the number of cases of sabotage. The country is also faced with the highest number of foreign cyberattacks in the EU.

Hybrid incidents such as drone incursions have become a near-daily occurrence in Europe in past months, disrupting air traffic and even provoking the evacuation of a village in Romania.

After a wave of incursions by drones and Russian jets, particularly on NATOs eastern front, the military alliance deployed more forces and capabilities to shield the airspace along the border with Russia. The EU was also looking into ways to strengthen its drone capacities.

Russia is really trying to test how far they can go, Kallas said. We should fight.

Photograph: Police cars near the railway damaged in an explosion in Mika, Poland on Nov. 17, 2025; photo credit: Wojtek Radwanski/AFP/Getty Images

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Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Europe Russia
A 35-year-old Ohio man has pleaded guilty to computer fraud for hacking his former employers network after he was fired, announced U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Ganjei.

On May 14, 2021, Maxwell Schultz, Columbus, Ohio, was terminated from his position as a contract employee in his companys IT department. Shortly after, he accessed the companys network by impersonating another contractor to obtain login credentials.

He ran a PowerShell script that reset approximately 2,500 passwords, locking thousands of employees and contractors out of their computers nationwide. Schultz also searched for ways to delete logs, PowerShell window events and cleared multiple system logs.

The attack to the companys system caused more than $862,000 in losses, including employee downtime, customer-service disruptions and labor needed to restore the network.

As part of his plea, Schultz admitted to conducting the attack because he was upset about being fired.

U.S. District Judge Lee Rosenthal will impose sentencing Jan. 30, 2026. At that time, Schultz faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

The FBI conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rodolfo Ramirez and Michael Chu are prosecuting the case.

Source: U.S. Attorneys Office, Southern District of Texas

Topics Cyber Commercial Lines Business Insurance Ohio
A federal judge ruling that Meta Platforms does not hold an illegal social media monopoly handed Big Tech its first decisive win against the antitrust crackdown started in President Donald Trumps first term.

Here are the statuses of the U.S. antitrust cases or probes against some of the worlds most valuable companies: Alphabets Google, Meta Platforms, Apple, Amazon, Microsoft and Nvidia.

GOOGLE

The internet juggernaut is fighting the U.S. Department of Justice and state enforcers on two fronts. In one case, a judge in Washington ruled the company will have to share data with competitors to open up competition in online search and barred Google from entering exclusive agreements that would prohibit device makers from preinstalling rival products on new devices. Google has already hired a former Obama official to represent it in an appeals process which could take years.

The judge ruled, though, that Google would not have to sell its popular Chrome browser and Android operating system.

While Google will likely get a reprieve from complying with the ruling until the appeal is over, the search landscape has already started to shift, with Google preemptively loosening its deals with device makers and wireless carriers, and Apple saying it plans to add search options fueled by artificial intelligence.

Meanwhile, a final plea by Google to avoid a breakup of its advertising technology business in a U.S. court has been moved to November 21, the court said. U.S. District Court Judge Leonie Brinkema in Alexandria, Virginia had ruled in April the company holds two illegal ad tech monopolies, and she is now considering what Google must do to restore competition.

META

The U.S. Federal Trade Commission sought to force Meta to restructure or sell Instagram and WhatsApp in order to restore competition among social media networks.

Meta argued at trial that buying companies that excelled in new features instead of building competitor products was a valid business strategy, and the FTC had ignored competitive pressure from ByteDances TikTok, Googles YouTube and Apples messaging app, among others.

U.S. District Judge James Boasberg said in the ruling that the FTC had incorrectly excluded YouTube and TikTok from the market where it challenged Metas dominance.

AMAZON

The online retail giant is battling the FTC and state enforcers in Seattle, where the agency has sued Amazon accusing it of using anti-competitive tactics to maintain dominance among online superstores and marketplaces.

The FTC alleged Amazon.com, which has 1 billion items in its online superstore, was using an algorithm that pushed up prices U.S. households paid by more than $1 billion. Amazon has said in court papers it stopped using the program in 2019. Last year, a judge largely rejected Amazons bid to dismiss the case. The trial is scheduled for February 2027.

APPLE

The Justice Department and a coalition of states are suing the maker of the worlds most popular smartphone. They say Apple thwarts competition by restricting the makers of apps and third-party devices  such as smart watches, digital wallets and messaging services  to keep iPhone users locked in.

Apples bid to dismiss the case was rejected in June. Deadlines for both sides to exchange information in the case stretch into early 2027, and no trial date has yet been set.

MICROSOFT

The FTC in 2024 opened a probe into whether the software and cloud computing heavyweight abused its market power in productivity software by imposing punitive licensing terms to prevent customers from moving their data to rival platforms. The FTC has yet to file a case.

NVIDIA

The Department of Justice launched an investigation into the semiconductor company whose highly-sought after chips power artificial intelligence applications and made it the first company in the world to be worth $4 trillion, the Information reported last year. No lawsuit has been filed.

Topics Lawsuits USA InsurTech Tech
The top Democrat on the Senate Commerce Committee on Tuesday called on the Federal Communications Commission to abandon plans to rescind cybersecurity requirements adopted after the massive Salt Typhoon Chinese hacking incident that infiltrated U.S. telecom companies last year.

Senator Maria Cantwell of Washington urged FCC Chair Brendan Carr to drop the plan to vote to rescind the ruling issued in January, which found that federal law requires telecommunications carriers to secure networks from unlawful access to or interception of communications. The ruling also said that carriers could be in breach if they failed to adopt certain cybersecurity practices.

Cantwell called the FCC ruling adopted in the final days of the Biden administration a commonsense acknowledgement that providers are responsible for protecting public safety against cybersecurity threats.

A spokesperson for Carr, who was appointed by Republican President Donald Trump, did not immediately comment. In January, when the FCC was led by Democrat Jessica Rosenworcel, the agency also issued a proposed rule that sought comment on specific cybersecurity requirements.

Senator Ben Ray Lujan, a Democrat from New Mexico, has said Chinas alleged efforts likely represent the largest telecommunications hack in our nations history. Hackers targeted telecom companies such as Verizon, AT&T, Lumen and others.

Chinese-linked hackers had previously targeted a host of U.S. and global telecommunications companies and a U.S. states Army National Guard network in a wide-ranging and years-long cyberespionage campaign tracked as Salt Typhoon.

Cantwell said Salt Typhoon allowed the Chinese government to geolocate millions of individuals and record phone calls at will, and that the incident targeted almost every American.

The Chinese government has denied responsibility.

You have now proposed to reverse this requirement after heavy lobbying from the very telecommunications carriers whose networks were breached by Chinese hackers, Cantwell said.

AT&T and Verizon did not immediately comment.

Carr said the FCC plans to rescind the ruling and withdraw the proposed rule after recent engagement with telecom providers and agreement to take steps to protect national security.

The agency said the earlier proposal was legally erroneous and ineffective at promoting cybersecurity and argued in favor of a targeted approach to promoting effective cybersecurity.

Cantwell also questioned Carrs position on other national security issues.

After helping lead the movement during the Biden administration to require that TikTok divest of Chinese influence, you have been silent while the Trump administration ignored the law and threatens to leave TikToks algorithm under Chinese control, she wrote.

Trump in September delayed until January 20 enforcement of the 2023 law that bans the app unless its Chinese owners sell its U.S. assets to allow completion of the transaction.

Topics Catastrophe Natural Disasters Cyber
AM Best has downgraded the financial strength ratings of State Farm Mutual Automobile Insurance Company and its affiliates to A+ from A++, reflecting a revision to Bests assessment of the groups operating performance.

The affiliates included in the rating action are State Farm Fire and Casualty Company and State Farm County Mutual Insurance Company of Texas.

State Farm Mutual and the two affiliates are collectively referred to as State Farm Group. While the revised ratings no longer have two pluses following the A, the A+ ratings are still considered superior in AM Bests rating methodology.

AM Best also downgraded the long-term issuer credit ratings of these companies to aa (Superior) from aa+ (superior), taking the same actions on the members of State Farm Life Group.

The outlook on the State Farm Group and State Farm Life Group ratings is now stable, revised from negative.

AM Best has also taken ratings actions on separate property/casualty subsidiaries of State Farm Group, mainly affirming ratings but changing rating outlooks on some. Among the subsidiaries included in these actions is State Farms California homeowners insurer, State Farm General Insurance Company, which carries the lowest ratings. AM Best has affirmed the FSR of B (fair) and the long-term ICR of bb+ (fair) of State Farm General.

Related: AM Best Downgrades State Farm General Ratings; Another Downgrade for State Farm General: S&P Lowers Rating to A-

Explaining the specifics of the primary downgrades for State Farm Mutual, State Farm Fire and Casualty and State Farm County Mutual of Texas, the AM Best announcement said the rating agency is lowering its operating performance assessment to adequate from strong as a result of adverse underwriting experience. The underwriting experience has been driven by elevated loss ratios in the private passenger auto and homeowners insurance lines of business, a challenging regulatory environment, and elevated weather-related losses from hurricanes, convective storms, and wildfires.

All these factors, AM Best noted, have contributed to five consecutive years of underwriting losses, and four consecutive years of operating losses for State Farm Group.

Related: Analysis: State Farm Bolsters Surplus by Freeing Up Billions in Loss Reserves

Explaining the still superior level of groups ratings, AM Best said it assesses the balance sheet strength of State Farm Group at the strongest level, its business profile assessment is very favorable and the Groups enterprise risk management is assessed as appropriate.

The balance sheet strength assessment level is supported by the strongest level of risk-adjusted capitalization, as measured by Bests Capital Adequacy Ratio (BCAR).

Internal capital generation has benefited by capital appreciation in its common stock portfolio, which represents approximately 72 percent of its surplus at second quarter of 2025, AM Best said in a media statement.

Actions on the remaining P/C insurance companies are detailed below.

MGA Insurance Company, Inc . FSR affirmed at A- (excellent) and long-term ICR of affirmed at a- (excellent). MGAs ratings reflect strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

. FSR affirmed at A- (excellent) and long-term ICR of affirmed at a- (excellent). MGAs ratings reflect strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. State Farm Florida Insurance Company FSR affirmed at A- (excellent) and long-term ICR affirmed at a- (excellent). State Farm Floridas ratings reflect adequate balance sheet strength and operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

FSR affirmed at A- (excellent) and long-term ICR affirmed at a- (excellent). State Farm Floridas ratings reflect adequate balance sheet strength and operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. HiRoad Assurance Company FSR affirmed at A (excellent) and long-term ICR at a (excellent) with a stable outlook. HiRoads ratings reflect strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

FSR affirmed at A (excellent) and long-term ICR at a (excellent) with a stable outlook. HiRoads ratings reflect strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. State Farm Indemnity Compan y FSR affirmed at A (excellent) and long-term ICR at a (excellent), with a negative outlook. State Farm Indemnitys ratings reflect very strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM.

y FSR affirmed at A (excellent) and long-term ICR at a (excellent), with a negative outlook. State Farm Indemnitys ratings reflect very strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM. Dover Bay Specialty Insurance Company FSR affirmed at B++ (good) and long-term ICR at bbb+ (good), with a stable outlook. Dover Bays ratings reflect its very strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

FSR affirmed at B++ (good) and long-term ICR at bbb+ (good), with a stable outlook. Dover Bays ratings reflect its very strong balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. State Farm General FSR affirmed at B (fair) and long-term ICR at bb+ (fair). The FSR outlook is stable, while the long-term ICR outlook is negative. State Farm Generals ratings reflect weak balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM.

FSR affirmed at B (fair) and long-term ICR at bb+ (fair). The FSR outlook is stable, while the long-term ICR outlook is negative. State Farm Generals ratings reflect weak balance sheet strength, marginal operating performance, limited business profile and appropriate ERM. State Farm Lloyds FSR affirmed at A (excellent) and long-Term ICR at a (excellent). The FSR outlook is stable while the long-term ICR is positive. State Farm Lloyds ratings reflect its very strong balance sheet strength, adequate operating performance, neutral business profile and appropriate ERM.

The ratings of MGA, State Farm Florida, State Farm Indemnity, Dover Bay Specialty, and State Farm General reflect lift from its parent, State Farm Mutual, AM Best said.

Topics Auto AM Best State Farm
Lloyds of London is investigating its former chief executive officer, John Neal, who was set to start at American International Group Inc. next month before the company disclosed hes no longer joining due to personal circumstances.

Insurance Journal asked the Lloyds Market Association for comment. CEO Sheila Cameron said the LMA welcomes the announcement from Lloyds and, it looks forward to seeing these results made public and concrete actions taken on the back of the findings. Under the new Lloyds leadership, there has been a refreshing commitment to behavioural change and openness, Cameron added. We call on Lloyds to accelerate their commitment to this change. She said the many great people of the market will be as appalled as we are at the possibility of the market being tarnished by alleged poor behaviours from a small minority of leaders, who were previously at the top of Lloyds. Cameron acknowledged huge cultural and structural changes since a Bloomberg report in 2019 into the markets culture. -Chad Hemenway, Insurance Journal

Lloyds Chairman Charles Roxburgh became aware of market speculation concerning possible historic breaches of policy and initiated an independent fact-finding review into Neals conduct in October, the firm said in a statement Wednesday.

A Wall Street Journal report on Wednesday alleged that Neal had a relationship with an employee at the company before he resigned earlier this year. The story cited people familiar with the matter.

A spokesperson for AIG declined to comment, and Neal didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

Related: Former Lloyds CEO Neal Will Not Join AIG; Hancock to Be General Insurance CEO

In recent days, new information has emerged, Lloyds said in the statement. In response Lloyds has launched an investigation with the support of a law firm.

On Friday, AIG said it had reached a mutual agreement with Neal that he would no longer join the insurer as president. He had been set to start on Dec. 1.

Neal had previously served as CEO of Australian insurer QBE Insurance Group Ltd, where his personal life also became an issue. In 2017, the companys board cut his bonus by 20% after it learned Neal hadnt disclosed another relationship, and he stepped down several months later. The news was reported by several publications at the time.

The New York Times reported on Friday that AIGs announcement about Neal came after the publication asked the firm about a romantic relationship with a subordinate that he failed to disclose in 2017.

Photo: Lloyds of London CEO John Neal. Photographer: Chris Ratcliffe/Bloomberg

Copyright 2025 Bloomberg.

Topics Excess Surplus Lloyd's AIG
GEICO insurance companies cant dismiss a South Carolina lawsuit that demands they pay almost $70 million in back taxes and penalties, a federal judge ruled in a case that could ultimately affect how insurance taxes are collected by cities in that state and others.

Municipalities clearly have the authority to enact ordinances authorizing MASC (the Municipal Association of South Carolina) to act as their administrator for the purpose of administrating and collecting business license taxes from insurance companies, U.S. District Judge Joseph Anderson wrote in his Nov. 12 order.

The Municipal Association contracts with almost all South Carolina municipalities to collect annual business license taxes equaling 2% of property-casualty insurers gross premiums. For the past seven years, six GEICO companies have paid at least a portion of that tax. But the insurance companies have not provided reconciliation reports that would verify the premiums and taxes per city, the Municipal Association said in its lawsuit.

MASC contends that GEICO companies failed to pay the full amount of taxes for 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, and now owe more than $30 million in taxes and $39 million in penalties.

The association concluded that GEICO has underpaid its taxes because most other carriers that write similar numbers of policies in the state remit a larger amount of taxes each year, Robert Tyson Jr., the lawyer for MASC, told Insurance Journal.

We could be wrong about it, he said. But until we get documentation from GEICO, we wont know for certain.

In September, GEICO attorneys asked the court to dismiss the suit, arguing that the association is not authorized by law to collect delinquent taxes and penalties, nor to demand reconciliation data.

Defendants do not challenge the broad powers of municipalities in this State, including the power to contract out certain functions to third parties, the judge explained. Rather, Defendants dispute the scope of the powers which can be contracted out under Plaintiffs cited statutory authority.

After reviewing arguments in the case, though, the judge found that South Carolinas constitution and statutes do not appear to prohibit contracted third parties from taking steps to enforce their tax collections.

Defendants contention that Subsection (E) limits the contracting authority to collecting taxes is not compelling, the judge noted. The mere mention of the authority to contract for collection of taxes does not mean the General Assembly intended to limit the definition of such services to exclude delinquent taxes and penalties.

The MASC has contracted with South Carolina cities for more than two decades to provide the tax service, Tyson said.

Its a benefit for the insurance companies and for the cities, because there are 270 municipalities in the state and most have different deadlines on tax payments, he said. Its difficult for insurance companies to keep up with that.

Judge Anderson also noted that the statute of limitations on the litigation has not expiredbecause the clock never started ticking: GEICO companies repeatedly assured MASC that they would submit the documents.

A defendant may be estopped from claiming the statute of limitations as a defense if some conduct or representation by the defendant has induced the plaintiff to delay in filing suit, the judge wrote, citing a 2001 court ruling.

The judge said GEICO may be right about one point: The Municipal Association may have failed to exhaust its administrative remedies. But he noted that its premature to dismiss the suit at this stage on those grounds. No evidence so far has shown that MASC did not follow the rules or that GEICO asked for an assessment that would trigger an appeal process.

Most property-casualty insurance companies in South Carolina are good about paying their taxes, MASC attorney Tyson said. He noted that many carriers will make it easy on themselves by simply paying 2% of total gross premiums in the state to the association, instead of the more tedious and time-consuming method of determining which city each policyholder lives in, or where insurance agents offices are located.

If GEICO does not settle the suit or appeal the order on the motion to dismiss, the lawsuit will likely continue in federal court in South Carolina. The discovery process should force GEICO to relinquish its reconciliation reports, Tyson said.

A GEICO attorney in the case, Kathryn Tanner, declined to comment on the litigation.

Topics Lawsuits South Carolina
The U.S. Chamber of Commerce asked the Supreme Court to pause new California laws expected to require thousands of companies to report emissions and climate-risk information.

The laws are the most sweeping of their kind in the nation, and a collection of business groups argued in an emergency appeal that they violate free-speech rights.

The measures were signed by Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom in 2023, and reporting requirements are expected to start early next year.

Lower courts have so far refused to block the laws, which the state says will increase transparency and encourage companies to assess how they can cut their emissions.

The Chamber of Commerce asked the justices to put the laws on hold while lawsuits continue to play out.

One requires businesses that make more than $1 billion a year and operate in California to annually report their direct and indirect carbon emissions, beginning in 2026 and 2027, respectively.

That includes planet-warming pollution from burning fossil fuels directly, as well as releases from activities such as delivering products from warehouses to stores and employee business travel. The Chamber of Commerce estimates it will affect about 5,000 companies, though state air regulators say it will apply to roughly 2,600.

The other law requires companies that make more than $500 million a year to biennially disclose how climate change could hurt them financially. The state Air Resources Board estimates more than 4,100 companies will have to comply.

Without this Courts immediate intervention, Californias unconstitutional efforts to slant public debate through compelled speech will take effect and inflict irreparable harm on thousands of companies across the country, the companies argued.

Companies that fail to publish could be subject to civil penalties. ExxonMobil also challenged the laws in a lawsuit filed last month.

The state has argued that the laws dont violate the First Amendment because commercial speech isnt protected the same way under the Constitution.

In 2023, Newsom called the emissions-disclosure law an important policy and of the states bold responses to the climate crisis, turning information transparency into climate action. The environmental group Ceres has said the information will help people decide whether to support the businesses.

The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission approved a rule last year requiring some public companies to report their greenhouse gas emissions and climate risks, but the agency paused the regulation amid litigation.

The conservative-majority Supreme Court has cast a skeptical eye on some environmental regulations in recent years, including a landmark decision that limited the Environmental Protection Agencys authority to regulate carbon dioxide emissions from power plants in 2022, and another that halted the agencys air-pollution-fighting good neighbor rule.

Copyright 2025 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics California
Ireland has returned to last place in Europe in the EDF-ZuivelNL International Milk Price Comparison for September.

However, Kerry Agribusiness, Dairygold, and Tirlan have more middle-of-the-road rankings for average price over the past 12 months.

The comparison looks at the price paid for milk by 16 milk processors across Europe, and at prices in Switzerland, New Zealand and the USA.

The average September price at the 16 processors was 2.6% lower than in August, but 1.8% higher than in the same month of 2024. Prices were calculated to have slipped most in Belgium, Ireland, and the UK.

Compared to a September average at the 16 processors of 48.60 per 100kg (standardised to 4.2% fat and 3.4% protein, VAT excluded), the price calculated for Tirlan was 41.28, 41.97 at Dairygold, and 43.76 at Kerry Agribusiness.

The best-paying of the 16 processors in September was FrieslandCampina, based in the Netherlands, at 53.78.

The average price over the past 12 months ranged from 54.58 at DMK Deutsches Milchkontor eG in Germany to 47.36 at Danone (Pas de Calais) in France. It was 49.37 at Tirlan, 49.15 at Dairygold, and 48.85 at Kerry Agribusiness.

Switzerland continues to have one of the highest milk prices in the world, with suppliers to Emmi getting 77.85 in September, and a 72.80 average over the past 12 months.

Fonterra in New Zealand paid 38.11 in September, and a 41.28 average over the past 12 months. The price of Class 3 milk (the standard needed for cheesemaking) in the USA was 37.33 in September, and a 43.17 average over the past 12 months.

Milk supply

According to the EDF-ZuivelNL International Milk Price Comparison for September, strong growth in supply has led to lower prices. The EU milk supply increased 3.5% in August, after gaining 1% rise in July.

Volumes in Belgium (up 6%) and Germany (up 2%) grew after months of decline. France recorded accelerated growth of 4%. Strong increases continued in Ireland (up 7%) and Poland (up 5%). The Dutch milk supply increased sharply again in September, by 6.7%.

This upward trend started in July, due to favourable weather, high milk prices, and the reduced impact of bluetongue. This viral livestock disease had an additional effect, namely the shifting of the calving period by several months, which has reinforced milk production growth.

But Dutch production up to and including September was only 0.5% higher than last year.

The cumulative EU milk supply increased by 0.6% up to August, adjusted for the leap year effect. Globally, the milk volumes of major dairy exporters (including the EU) are calculated at 1.8% higher than in 2024 up to and including August.
Suleman Ahmed and Bobby Lynch of Cork Taxi Drivers group delivered a letter to the constituency offices of Taoiseach Micheal Martin as part of their protest on Tuesday. They ask that the government Review all app-based taxi fare systems to ensure full compliance with Irish regulations, enforce transparency and fairness in pricing, and invest in a publicly managed NTA taxi-hailing app as an Irish-controlled, regulated alternative for passengers and licensed drivers. We kindly request that this matter be given urgent consideration. Drivers delivered the letter to the Taoiseach after meeting at Nemo Rangers where up to 200 drivers attended.

Read More Taxi fares increase by 9% with passengers facing further charges
Environmental advocates have claimed the Government is creating further delays in the planning system by failing to speed up the appointment of more judges.

Friends of the Irish Environment (FIE) said the non-appointment of 18 judges promised in the Programme for Government represents a real barrier to a planning system functioning in a timely manner.

The judicial appointments were first announced in 2023 and approved by the Cabinet in April.

However, just two appointments are currently being processed by the Judicial Appointments Commission.

Applications for that process closed on November 6.

No explanation has been provided for the delay, the FIE said.

The Department of Justice had not immediately replied to a query at the time of writing.

The Government is currently trying to make it onerous for the public to access judicial reviews as it has been argued the planning process has been unnecessarily slowed by frivolous legal objections to worthwhile developments.

Judicial review is the legal process by which a decision by a State body or representative can be challenged in court, not regarding the suitability of the decision, but in terms of whether or not the correct process had been taken in arriving at the decision in the first place.

The Coalition wants to take effective action against logjams in the planning system which are seen as a major impediment to addressing the housing and infrastructural crises.

Judicial review is the legal process by which a decision by a State body or representative can be challenged in court. File picture

Tony Lowes, director of FIE, noted however that the Courts Service has recently drawn attention to the unaddressed extra pressure on the court staff, who like litigants face an ever-growing complexity of procedures.

The Courts Service Boards 2024 report states that while extra judges have reduced some delays and cancellations, the system remains under strain due to resource shortages, now also affecting administrative staff, Mr Lowes said, adding that increased pressure is being placed on staff as a result of that strain.

FIE urges policymakers and the public to recognise that speeding up Irelands development, from new roads to local infrastructure, urgently requires the Government to fulfil and accelerate its promise for more judges and their administrative support, Mr Lowes added.

The FIE noted that a recent challenge it took against a project aimed at connecting a motorway plaza with the Ennis wastewater treatment plant had been delayed by six months over a technical legal matter, with no judge available to hear it before February of next year.

Blaming citizens who bring legal actions only distracts from the real capacity crisis within the justice system, Mr Lowes said.

The latest actions by the Government aimed at kickstarting the planning process include plans to limit the amount of costs a successful objector could claim from the State to just over 30,000.

Costs in long-running judicial reviews typically range over 150,000.

Last month, the Taoiseach said that in his opinion the "frequency of judicial reviews is excessive right now and, in my view, its undermining the common good".
The Taoiseach has told the Sinn Fein leader to "cop on" as she told him not to "mansplain the economy" to her in fiery clashes in the Dail.

Mary Lou McDonald pushed the Government at Leaders' Questions to restore energy credits, saying "people are scared because they simply cannot afford another winter like the last one".

Ms McDonald said one person had written to her office saying: "We got our autumn gas bill. It was 275. The heating had barely been on.

"We paid just under 20 in VAT, 20 in carbon tax and a standing charge of around the same, all totalling 59.80. The next gas bill will be double that as the weather has changed. This is nearly impossible for us. It looks like we will freeze again this year. It is just survival now."

In response, Micheal Martin said "the bottom line for us in the recent budget is that we have targeted resources at those most in need".

He said Sinn Fein's plan to resume energy credits would mean millionaires were given Government assistance.

We decided not to do it. You want to give energy credits to everybody, irrespective of income, millionaires, people on 200 grand, you want to give them an energy credit, said Mr Martin, who told the Dail the Government chose targeted measures.

But Ms McDonald said the Government's analysis was out of step with organisations like St Vincent de Paul.

All of the bragging in the world from the Taoiseach does not alter the fact that 250,000 people will reach out to the Society of St Vincent de Paul for help.

"I have to tell the Taoiseach that I do not find this funny. I do not need the Taoiseach to mansplain the economy to me. I do not need him to dodge and evade a simple question.

"I asked him about energy credits. I have set out for him the reality that people are now fearful. That people are not turning on their heat. The heart is crossways on people when they are opening their bills. That is the reality.

"It may not land with the Taoiseach. I do not know what reality he lives in, but I know who I represent in here. I represent families that are struggling. I represent working people who are struggling and are now fearful that they cannot make their bills."

Mr Martin later clashed with Social Democrats leader Holly Cairns, who said the Taoiseach "cynically misled the public about how many homes would be delivered" before last year's general election and asked how many homes the Government was targeting for delivery in its lifetime.

Mr Martin said the Social Democrats leader "uses language about a 'radical reset of housing policy'".

"What in the name of God does it mean? The deputy has never put any flesh on the bone of anything she has ever proposed. She is bereft of policy. What is the radical reset? Spell it out."
Civil society organisations have hit out at the Government for creating an environment of fear for asylum seekers by publicising deportation operations.

In a joint statement, organisations Doras, Nasc, Irish Refugee Council, Immigrant Council of Ireland, Spirasi, and the Irish Council for Civil Liberties said they were extremely concerned about the negative impact and consequences of deportation operations being undertaken by the Department of Justice.

It comes after a special report in the Irish Examiner this week, where it was provided with journalistic access to the deportation process, a first for An Garda Siochana.

This sixth chartered deportation flight of the year saw 52 Georgian nationals flown out of Dublin Airport to the nations capital Tbilisi.

It included three families, three mothers, and seven children.

The publicity generated around deportations appears intended to deter people from availing of their right to seek international protection in Ireland, the groups said.

Hindering or discouraging applications for asylum potentially puts people at risk of exploitation and harm.

It is crucial to recognise that many of the people being deported have spent years in the international protection system, have established lives here, and contribute to their communities. They work, their children attend school, and yet they remain at risk of deportation.

The groups said it was important to recognise the contribution many of the individuals are making through their employment, adding the process fails to recognise childrens physical, psychological, and emotional needs.

[The public approach] fails to respect peoples dignity, does not recognise their contribution and value to Irish society, and risks putting them in danger in the country they are returned to, they said.

The Government should put in place alternatives for those who do not qualify for asylum, such as using existing work permit programmes to enable people to remain in Ireland.

Instead of focusing on deportations, the NGOs urged the Government to create a fair and accessible international protection system, with upcoming legislation to translate EU law an opportunity to get this right.

The International Protection Bill 2025 as currently formed, created serious concerns, including that people could be deported without having exhausted all available remedies, they said.

Furthermore, they said children or vulnerable applicants could be placed in detention while awaiting removal.

Under the new proposed law, a person would have just five days from receipt of a deportation order to voluntarily return.

Additionally, under the proposed legislation, people may be removed without a deportation order and without the benefit of a suspensive appeal, they said.

Families with children, including those in the border procedure, could be removed from the State even while their appeal is pending.

"This represents a profound change that goes far beyond what is prescribed by the EU Pact."
A father-of-three who suffered multiple stab wounds in the driveway of a Cork home on Sunday morning will be buried on Friday.

Mark OConnell, 38, had called to a house in Hollyhill where he got into an altercation with a man known to him.

He was stabbed in the chest and shoulder area, it is understood.

Although emergency services were called to the scene in Hollyville and Mr O'Connell was rushed to hospital, he was later pronounced dead.

His body will repose at Jerh OConnor's Coburg St Funeral Home in Cork City on Thursday from 5pm to 6pm.

His requiem Mass will be held at 11.30am on Friday in the Church of the Resurrection, Farranree.

His funeral will follow afterwards to St Catherines Cemetery, Kilcully.

Mr O'Connell was the father of Katlyn, Jake, and Sean, partner of Samantha, and brother of Philip.

He is predeceased by his mother Ann.

An autopsy by Assistant State Pathologist Dr Margot Bolster found that Mr O'Connell died a violent death.

A 55-year-old man was arrested at the scene.

He was detained under Section 4 of the Criminal Justice Act 1984, but subsequently released without charge on Monday night.

Gardai will prepare a file for the DPP on the case.
Urgent psychiatric attention was requested for a 25-year-old man charged with murdering his mother outside the family home in Ballinlough, Cork City, on Monday night.

David Gallagher was charged with murdering his 59-year-old mother, Stella Gallagher, and assault causing harm to his father, 63-year-old Brian Gallagher.

Stella Gallagher.

Solicitor Shane Collins-Daly said the young man was being seen by a doctor, approximately once every eight hours since his arrest on Monday night.

Detective Sergeant Niall Hayes testified at the very brief court hearing at Cork District Court on Wednesday that the accused man was formally charged at lunchtime on Wednesday.

The first charge stated: On November 17, 2025, at Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, in the District Court area of Cork city, district number 19, he did murder Stella Gallagher, contrary to common law.

The second charge stated: On November 17, 2025, at Shrewsbury Downs, Ballinlough, in the District Court area of Cork city, district number 19, he did assault Brian Gallagher causing him harm, contrary to Section 3 of the Non-Fatal Offences Against the Person Act.

Detective Sgt Hayes testified that he cautioned David Gallagher that he did not have to say anything but that whatever he might say would be written down and could be given in evidence.

To each charge, the defendant made no reply.

The 25-year-old with long, shaggy hair, wearing a dark sweatshirt and light grey track pants, looked downwards as he sat in the dock and was not required to speak.

No DPP directions are required on the murder charge which will ultimately be dealt with at the Central Criminal Court.

The Gallagher home in Ballinlough in Cork.

Directions are required on the assault causing harm charge but are not yet given.

Sergeant John Kelleher said that his application was for a remand in custody for seven days on the murder charge.

Judge John King adjourned both charges until November 26 at Cork District Court and directed that the accused should appear by video link from prison.

Mr Collins-Daly said at that point: He has been assessed on numerous occasions by medical practitioners since Monday. He has seen a doctor on average every eight hours or so. And he is being given medication by those doctors.

Given the nature of one of the charges the accused is not entitled to make an application for bail. There is consent to a remand in custody for seven days.

I would ask the court to direct that he receive urgent medical and psychiatric evaluation on his arrival in Cork Prison.

Picture: Larry Cummins

The court appearance follows from the investigation of a serious stabbing incident at around 9pm on Monday night.

A senior investigating officer has been appointed to head up the investigation and an incident room has been established at Anglesea Street Garda Station.

A family liaison officer has been assigned to support relatives of the deceased and to inform them of any developments in the case.

Gardai are appealing for witnesses, particularly anyone who was in the Shrewsbury Downs area between 8.30pm and 9.30pm on Monday, including anyone who may have home security or dashcam footage.
A Cork man with 135 previous convictions pleaded guilty in the district court to three public order offences related to an incident in West Cork in October.

Sergeant Tom Mulcahy told Clonakilty District Court gardai were called to John L OSullivan Park near Rosscarbery on the night of October 13, 2025. When they arrived at 10.30pm, a man identified as Michael Maughan, aged 34, of John L OSullivan Park was roaring and shouting in the street.

Maughan then went into the house by the back door. Gardai knocked on the door and were invited in by a family member. In the living room, gardai attempted to calm Maughan, who, the court was told, was clearly intoxicated. Maughan stood up and shouted fuck ye at gardai before pushing past them and leaving the house.

Outside, standing by the Garda patrol car, Maughan continued to behave aggressively, stood face to face with a garda while shouting abuse and was eventually arrested.

Maughan resisted arrest and had to be handcuffed and was taken to Clonakilty Garda Station. In the patrol car en-route, he continued to behave in an aggressive manner and at the Garda station, he head-butted the custody hatch.

The court was told Maughan had 135 previous convictions, including two for public intoxication, two for threatening and abusive behaviour, and three for obstruction. The court heard Maughan was pleading guilty to public intoxication, threatening and abusive behaviour and obstruction, and apologised to the gardai and the court for his behaviour.

Defence solicitor Flor Murphy said Maughan had been drinking with his brother that evening and an argument developed between them. The court heard Maughans stepfather described him as being out of control, and he was no longer welcome at the family home.

Judge John King said Maughan was working his way through the statute book and convicted and sentenced him to four months in prison on the obstruction charge. The other two charges were taken into consideration and the sentence was backdated to November 12 when Maughan went into custody.

This article was funded by the Courts Reporting Scheme
The family of a Cork farmer who had a heart attack and died hours after an out-of-hours doctor over the phone treated his symptoms as a sore throat has settled a High Court action over his death.

When he spoke to an out-of-hours doctor in the early hours of December 16, 2021, dairy farmer Daniel Cronin had cardio symptoms, such as sweating, neck pain and a red hot chest sensation. However, he was dealt with as a sore throat case, the High Court heard.

The familys counsel, Doireann OMahony BL with Dr John OMahony SV, instructed by Daniel Wall, solicitor, told the High Court it was their case that the farmer had cardio symptoms but he was treated as a sore throat and it cost him his life.

The court heard that GP,Antonios Issou, who at the time worked with the SouthDoc GP out-of-hours services with registered offices in Killarney, Co Kerry, had admitted a breach of duty in the case.

Counsel said Dr Issou accepts that, given Mr Cronins symptoms and presentation on December 16, 2021, he should have arranged an in-person consultation, or advised immediate transfer to a hospital emergency department.

Later that morning Mr Cronin, aged 72, was milking cows on the family farm at Knocknagree, Mallow, Co Cork, when he had a heart attack and collapsed and died beside the cow shed.

Mr Cronins daughter, Josephine Delaney, Causeway, Co Kerry, and his son, Brendan Cronin of Castlemartyr, Co Cork, had sued GP Antonios Issou over their fathers death.

In the proceedings, it was claimed there was an alleged failure to investigate Mr Cronins worsening symptoms with neck pain and chest pain radiating to the throat and a sensation of a red hot chest, which, it was claimed, had developed by December 16.

There was, it was claimed, an alleged mistaken attribution of Mr Cronins symptoms to a sore throat. It was further claimed had Mr Cronin been sent immediately to hospital when he sought medical advice in the early hours of December 16, his threatened cardiac arrest would have been diagnosed promptly and managed appropriately and he would have survived.

The terms of the settlement are confidential and the matter was before the court for the division of the 35,000 mental distress solatium payment.

Counsel told the court it was a profoundly sad and tragic case. Mr Cronin, she said, was a hardworking and active dairy farmer until his death.

Case background

She said on December 15, 2021, he attended the out-of-hours service with mild throat symptoms. There was nothing about the presentation to suggest what would unfold later, counsel said.

In the early hours, counsel said, Mr Cronin woke up with dramatically different and deeply concerning symptoms including radiating neck pain, profound sweating and a red-hot sensation in his chest. Counsel said he rang the South Doc out-of-hours service and the triage nurse correctly classified him as priority.

Counsel said Dr Issou rang Mr Cronin and dealt with the matter as a sore throat. Noting the settlement and approving the division of the solatium payment, Mr Justice Paul Coffey extended his deepest sympathy to Mr Cronins wife Mary and the family.

Outside court, Mr Cronins son, Brendan, on behalf of the family, said they felt very let down by what had happened.

Our father loved his family and he loved his farm and we all loved him. He was one in a million, he said. We feel very let down. It has been a hard four years. It does now give us some closure and at least we can try to move on.
The trial of four gardai and a retired Garda superintendent, accused of unlawfully interfering or intending to interfere in potential or pending prosecutions, has heard a national Garda unit raided a number of Garda stations and homes and seized mobile phones, as part of the probe.

The five accused, who have pleaded not guilty to a total of 39 counts, are retired superintendent Eamon O'Neill; serving Sergeants Michelle Leahy and Anne-Marie Hassett; Garda Tom McGlinchey, and Garda Colm Geary, all within the Limerick and Clare Garda divisions.

Garda Tom McGlinchey. File picture: Press 22

Detective Sergeant Robert Madden, Garda National Bureau of Criminal Investigation, (GNBCI), gave evidence that, in 2019, the specialist unit began investigating alleged interference in pending or potential fixed charge penalty notices (FCPNs).

Detective Sgt Madden said Garda Geary and Garda McGlinchey, received prior notice from a superior officer that the GNBCI were to seize their mobile phones as part of the probe.

Retired Superintendent Eamon O'Neill. File picture: Press 22

John Byrne, senior counsel for Garda McGlinchey, put it to Sgt Madden: All Tom McGlinchey had to do was make sure his phone was far away and turned off, perhaps at the bottom off a river or lake and well away from the prying eyes of the GNBCI.

Det Sgt Madden agreed that both Garda McGlinchey and Garda Geary met GNBCI officers by appointment at Ennis Garda Station, Co Clare, and Murroe Garda Station, Co Limerick, and handed over their mobile phones and phone pins to the investigators who produced warrants.

Det Sgt Madden said the warrants were obtained as a matter of routine procedure in criminal investigations; he added if potential evidence is handed up voluntarily it could also be rescinded.

Det Sgt Madden said the GNBCI wanted to seize Garda McGlincheys phone because it suspected he had acted as an intermediary between then Superintendent Eamon ONeill and a prosecuting Garda.

Det Sgt Madden said he also obtained and executed a search warrant at the home of Aaron Gillane, Patrickswell, Co Limerick, because he said Mr Gillane was under suspicion of having attempted to pervert the course of justice.

Det Sgt Madden agreed with Jim OMahony, senior counsel for Sgt Anne Marie Hassett, that the GNBCIs case all starts with Sgt Hassett allegedly communicating with another garda or gardai for the purpose of terminating a potential or pending prosecution of Aaron Gillanes brother, Jason Gillane, for an alleged offence of holding a mobile phone while driving, at Dock Rd, Limerick, on June 5, 2018.

Det Sgt Madden told Mr OMahony that he and other GNBCI officers cold-called at Aaron and Jason Gillanes home, with a search warrant on October 22, 2019.

Det Sgt Madden said Aaron Gillane handed over his phone and pin number to the GNBCI officers after being informed he was under suspicion of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Det Sgt Madden agreed with Mr OMahony that Aaron Gillane was suspected of committing a crime in relation to his brother Jason.

It related to perverting the course of justice, Det Sgt Madden said.

Sergeant Michelle Leahy. Picture: Brendan Gleeson

The two Gillane brothers were interviewed under caution by the GNBCI, Det Sgt Madden said.

Sergeant Madden also agreed that search warrants were also executed at the homes of Pat Ryan, of Giggin, Doon, Co Limerick, and Siobhan Scanlon, of Ballingarry, Co Limerick, as they too had been under investigation on suspicion of attempting to pervert the course of justice.

Garda Sergeantt Anne Marie Hassett. File picture: Liam Burke/Press 22

Mr Ryan and Ms Scanlon also handed over their mobile phones and pin numbers to GNBCI officers.

Sgt Madden also agreed with Mr OMahony that, five years on, none of the above named civilians had been charged with any offence arising out of the GNBCI probe.

Sgt Madden, answering Felix McEnroy, senior counsel for Eamon ONeill, said the GNBCI investigation involved at least 10 detective sergeants supported by other colleagues.

Det Sgt Madden said the probe was led by Detective Chief Superintendent Walter OSullivan, who, he said, appointed Detective Inspector Mick McNulty as the senior investigating officer, and that the two named senior ranking officers had made all of the operational decisions in the probe.

Sgt Madden agreed the GNBCI was a specialist unit which routinely investigated serious crime including, murder, drugs, organised crime groups, [incidents] at government level, intellectual property crime, cold case reviews, etc.

Det Sgt Madden also agreed with senior counsel, John Byrne, for Gda McGlinchey, that the GNBCI investigation team had all received briefing documents to familiarise themselves with the complexities and nuances of FCPNs, which the witness agreed he had known very little about prior to the investigation.

The briefing documents explained what a fixed charge penalty notice was, how they are processed, and what guidelines and exemptions are legitimately used by gardai for cancelling FCPNs.

The trial continues before a jury and Judge Roderick Maguire.
The higher education minister has said he is "concerned" to hear the Young Fine Gael branch at University College Cork (UCC) has been unable to re-establish itself as a recognised society on campus.

The Irish Examiner on Wednesday reported that the party's youth branch accused UCC of attempting to suppress political expression on campus by refusing to allow new political societies to be formed.

A spokesman for UCC said its societies executive "remains committed to transparent, democratic decision-making and assures students that there is no intention to limit or restrict political expression on campus".

It is currently undertaking a review to ensure all societies meet existing university policies and national legislation, including the Charities Act.

"This work is in line with similar reviews being conducted across the higher education sector. During this review, no new society applications can be taken. This process is ongoing, and no final decision has been made."

At Government Buildings, James Lawless said he was "concerned" to hear of the delay.

"I don't know what the rules are of the college, so I can't really talk to the specifics of that, but what I will say is I'm a strong believer in democracy, and I'm a strong believer in every voice being heard. Whether we agree or disagree is immaterial.

"I believe in free speech. I believe in freedom of expression. It's a hallmark of a democratic society that all voices can be heard and are given a platform.

"What matters is a democratic system allows all voices to be heard. I would certainly hope the college authorities will expedite whatever review they're doing."

Mr Lawless was speaking as he announced a major new partnership that will establish Dundalk Institute of Technology as a university college of Queens University Belfast.
Late on Monday night, the UN Security Council passed a US-backed resolution 2803 (2025), based on the 20-point Trump peace plan. The resolution approves the establishment of an international force to restore order in Gaza, protect civilians and open the way for largescale aid and rebuilding. There were 13 votes for, and two abstentions, Russia and China.

The resolution authorises an international stabilisation force to support the demilitarisation of Gaza, which will answer to a Board of Peace. The board will govern Gaza for two years, handing over to an administration which will include a reformed Palestinian Authority.

There are provisions for negotiations to develop a "credible pathway" towards Palestinian statehood. Indications are that the international stabilisation force will not be a traditional UN peacekeeping force, but rather a multinational mission with UN approval. This means Irelands triple lock would not block Irish participation in this mission.

Apart from applying some pressure on Israel to open up more entry points into Gaza for humanitarian aid, the passing of the resolution will have no immediate impact on the present desperate humanitarian situation.

Seven-month-old Salem Awad, suffering from severe malnutrition, lies on a mattress in his family's tent in Gaza City, July 28, 2025. Picture: AP/Jehad Alshrafi

More than 1.5 million people in Gaza are slowly being denied the basic needs to survive. This is beyond cruel. It is barbaric and avoidable. The amount of food aid getting through is not sufficient and not efficiently distributed. The IDF is blocking medical supplies from getting to the few functioning hospitals and clinics.

Deaths directly attributed to starvation have already occurred in Gaza. People in the affluent West sometimes have the misconception that starving to death is somehow a benign way to die. Nothing could be further from the truth. It is incredibly painful, as each organ of the body shuts down.

An Irish surgeon, just returned from Gaza after a three-week period of volunteer work, described the high number of amputations he had to perform, many on young children, with minimal equipment, and a severe shortage of painkillers. For RTE listeners, he was particularly critical of the lack of medical supplies in a situation where disease is rampant. Most patients immune systems are run down, making them particularly vulnerable.

The few aid organisations functioning inside Gaza are in a desperate race against time to provide tented accommodation before winter sets in. The unsanitary conditions of the makeshift shelters exacerbate the misery of the people, already deprived of running water and with intermittent electricity. The amount of rubble that needs to be cleared has been estimated as 13 times the weight of the Giza Pyramid near Cairo.

There is sufficient aid, trucks, tentage, medical supplies and infrastructure repair equipment, built up outside Gaza, to handle the humanitarian crisis. However, the UN agencies and NGOs in Gaza simply have not got the capacity to cope with the scale of the logistics operation required.

Only Unrwa (UN Relief and Works Agency) with its 12,000 staff in Gaza, has the means, the infrastructure and experience, to solve the humanitarian situation.

Last year, Israel instituted a ban on cooperation with Unrwa and imposed restrictions on its operations. The Israeli restrictions imposed on Unrwa require the organisation to remove its logo off every item of aid it brings into Gaza. This slows down aid distribution immeasurably.

Israels bans Unrwa from bringing in medical supplies and vital repair equipment for desalination plants. It also refuses Unrwa international staff visas to travel to Gaza.

The stated reason for the ban was that Hamas had infiltrated Unrwa and some of its staff members were involved in the attacks on October 7, 2023. In response to these allegations, Unrwa suspended 19, and later dismissed, nine employees, for "possible involvement".

A United Nations worker prepares aid for distribution to Palestinians at an Unrwa warehouse in Gaza in October 2023. Picture: AP /Hassan Eslaiah

Israel has been intensely collecting evidence against the perpetrators of the October 7 attacks, and yet no evidence was ever given by the Israelis to support the allegations against Unrwa.

Last month, the International Criminal Court ruled the continuing ban by Israel on Unrwa was against international law.

Israeli minister for defence Israel Katzs claim that Unrwa only delivered 13% of humanitarian aid in Gaza, was untrue and is misleading. It ignored the fact Unrwa coordinated and facilitated the rest of the humanitarian aid operations with its extensive and established infrastructure.

Unrwa, in addition to its role in coordinating humanitarian aid, was also an important provider of educational needs for 650,000 children living in Gaza.

Moreover, it used to conduct more than 17,000 medical consultations daily. It would take years for another UN agency to build up a comparable organisation that could replace it.

Israeli longstanding antipathy towards Unrwa is said to be rooted in the belief that without Unrwa, the Palestinians status as refugees could be removed, undermining the concept of a Palestinian state.

UN secretary-general Antonio Gutierrez has repeatedly appealed to the Israelis to allow Unrwa in Gaza to continue its work.

Israels efforts to tackle the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, without Unrwa, by setting up the US-Israel Gaza Humanitarian Foundation was a total failure. Its chaotic aid distribution operation contributed to the deaths of more than 2,000 Gazans seeking aid in the period from May 27 to October 9 this year. It finally has suspended its operations.

Since the war began, 560 aid workers have been killed in Gaza. Unrwa has recorded 380 of its workers killed, including 309 Unrwa personnel, and 72 who supported its activities. In other words, Unrwa has suffered more fatalities among its staff and supporters than all the other aid organisations combined.

That is why Unrwa, and other aid agencies, will mainly use international staff to take the hard decisions.

The Israeli ban on Unrwa is clearly against the spirit of point 8 of Trumps plan, which provides for UN and Red Crescent to coordinate humanitarian operations.

In the past few weeks, Unrwa has managed to resume schooling for a small number of children. Since 97% of schools in Gaza have been destroyed or damaged, they have set up 231 temporary learning shelters, with 35,000 children attending.

Acknowledging the dire humanitarian situation in the enclave, Israel should suspend its ban on Unrwa in Gaza. Such a move by Israel would be seen as a confidence building measure in President Trumps 20 point peace plan for Gaza.

It needs to happen, and right now.
Was there ever a bar as well named as The Flying Enterprise?

The Cork City bar and business premises has just sold for over 5m, making it the biggest bar sale in Cork and across Munster this year.

The vastly expanded licensed and entertainment premises, virtually an entire quayside block of a quarter of an acre, was built up over the past 45 years by owners Finbarr and Dolly OShea.

It includes the Courtyard Bar, capable of holding parties of 700 at the old Sullivans Quay CBS site, a shop, Quay News, off-licence, and five overhead apartments.

The Flying Enterprise went up for sale in April and attracted very strong local, national, and international inquiries given its location, profile, very strong income, and trading figures, said its selling agent Margaret Kelleher of Cohalan Downing.

Ms Kelleher said the buyer was local, with international backing, and it would continue to run as a trading entity as-is, with all staff retained after the OShea family owners decision to retire.

Former owners Dolly and Finbarr O'Shea in 2014. File picture: Jim Coughlan

Near St FinBarres Cathedral, the South Mall, and the Brewery Quarter, the mixed-use commercial/licensed property earns 185,000 per year in rents separate to bar income: Munster Technological University pays 105,000 a year to lease three classrooms in the building, and the five apartments add another 80,000 annually.

It was this very level of combined income that drove the sale price to just under the 5.3m asking price, said Ms Kelleher who had described it on launch as an iconic, long-established licensed premises with further development potential.

It has planning for new entrances on the curiously-titled Sober Lane and for a new function room.

It is one of the very strongest Munster licensed sales in recent years, only eclipsed by the sale of the Reardens, Washington St, nighttime venue along with the Oliver Plunkett Bar in a combined c 30m deal last year to Attestor Capital.

Also due to close as a bar sale and redevelopment opportunity shortly is the Cotton Ball, Mayfield, for a sum close to 1m.
A popular Kerry pub seeking to retain its outdoor dining and beverage area has had its case appealed to the planning commission by a neighbouring property owner.

Murphys Pub, located on Strand Street in Dingle, sought permission to retain an existing structure along the eastern gable of the pub, which is currently used as an outdoor seating area for the business.

The pub received the green light from Kerry County Council to retain the seating area, with permission granted on a temporary basis for two years, with the structure being removed in its entirety after that period and the area being returned to its former state.

Kerry County Council also ruled that the pub must pay a contribution of more than 250 to the council in respect of roads and transport, as well as community and amenity infrastructure benefiting the development.

However, the plans have since been appealed to An Coimisiun Pleanala by Jonathon Moriarty, owner of the neighbouring Colony.

In his objection, Mr Moriarty said his concerns relate to a single-storey structure erected a few years ago without planning permission.

This is of course, unacceptable and shows no regard for [the planning commission], the laws of the land or indeed for all citizens, not only of Dingle," Mr Moriarty said, adding that it was a "blatant and very obvious unauthorised development smack in the middle of a very busy area."

Mr Moriarty said the structure should have been removed immediately upon construction, adding that it would adversely affect the Inner relied road from Goat Street to Strand Street, which Mr Moriarty called one of the most important infrastructural proposals for Dingle Town in recent years.

An Coimisiun Pleanala are due to decide on the case by March 3rd, 2025.
In Kingtom, a crowded district near the centre of Freetown, thousands live on and around the citys main dumpsite.

The air hangs heavy; salt from the Atlantic mixing with the acrid smoke of burning rubbish.

Beyond the patchwork of tin roofs, the ocean catches the light, its surface flecked with plastic washed down from the citys drains.

For years, untreated waste flowed straight into those waters.

At high tide, it returned, washing through alleyways, flooding homes, carrying disease  exacerbating the impacts of climate change. Now, on land reclaimed from the dump itself, that tide is beginning to turn.

A waste-to-energy plant was built within the city by GOAL in partnership with Freetown City Council, FCDO and supported by the Government of Ireland through Irish Aid.

Operational since 2021, it now treats over 20 per cent of the citys liquid waste, turning a public health risk into compost, biogas and fuel.

That fuel leaves the site as small black briquettes; dense, clean-burning blocks made from treated sludge. Across Freetown, they replace charcoal, burning longer and with far less smoke.

For many families, that means fewer trees cut down, improved health, and much more cost-effective fuel.

Shaping the future: Workers carefully add the prepared mix into the briquette-forming machine. It is pressed and shaped, ready for use. Photograph: Peter Caton for GOAL Global

A city of over 1.2 million people reclaims its future

Freetown was founded on the promise of freedom; built by freed slaves in the late 18th century on hills that tumble towards the Atlantic.

But Sierra Leone soon fell under British colonial rule, and the freedom its founders sought never extended to the citys infrastructure.

For generations, waste was carried away by rain, tide or time; flowing through open drains into the same ocean that frames the citys horizon.

The waste-to-energy plant is changing that, giving Freetown its first safe system for managing waste and protecting both its people and the sea they live beside.

It signals a shift from short-term aid to locally owned systems that endure. It is practical resilience: helping cities cope with climate shocks and rapid growth by creating infrastructure that lasts.

Many of the staff who keep the plant running once lived and worked on the dump itself.

Mark Korgay, one of the operators, spent years scavenging for scrap there. I spent years on the Kingtom dump, he says. Now I help keep the city clean. Its hard work, but theres dignity in this. I can plan, I can save  thats the biggest thing.

The plant is supported by Irelands Civil Society Partnership (ICSP), a five-year Irish Aid initiative providing vital humanitarian and development assistance to GOALs work across ten countries, including Sierra Leone.

The focus of the waste-to-energy plant is practical resilience: helping cities cope with flooding, disease and rapid growth by building systems that last.

The vision has always been for this plant to be city-owned and city-run, says GOALs programmes director, Colin Lee. Success is designing ourselves out of the picture. The goal is that the system keeps working long after weve stepped away.

A blueprint for the continent

GOALs design is simple and adaptable; compact enough for a crowded city and energy-efficient enough to run with minimal resources.

Its success has already drawn attention from other West African cities, with delegations from Liberia and Ghana coming to see how it works.

Behind it sits a wider story of Irish collaboration. WaterShare Ireland, a partnership between Irish engineers and GOAL, helped design and commission the plant, sharing the same practical expertise that keeps Irelands own systems running.

Through the Sunflower Foundation, GOALs Blue Economy work in Sierra Leone is strengthening climate resilience by restoring mangroves and supporting fishing communities along the coast.

And last year alone, through the AIB-GOAL Mile, thousands of people at home raised more than 750,000 for projects like this one; proof that public, private and community support can combine to make something enduring.

Plastic waste blankets a Freetown beach, washed in from the citys drains and swept in by the tide. For coastal communities, the ocean is a lifeline critically threatened by pollution and climate change. Photograph: Peter Caton for GOAL Global

The result is a web of connection that stretches far beyond funding. The water that laps against Freetowns edge is the same Atlantic that meets Irelands western shore.

What happens there shapes here too  a shared ocean, a shared future.

For Freetown Mayor Yvonne Aki-Sawyerr, the plant is a clear demonstration of what collaborations and partnerships can achieve.

Success isnt measured by what we do today, but by what continues into the future. Thats real sustainability. In a city that has endured more than its fair share of challenges, the difference is visible: cleaner streets, safer homes, and public systems that are built to last - owned by Sierra Leone, backed by the people of Ireland.

For further information on GOAL Globals work across the world, click here.
A large Russian drone and missile barrage has killed 19 people and injured dozens more in Ukraine overnight, officials said.

The attack came as Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was due in Turkey for talks on finding a settlement that might end Russias invasion of his country.

The night-time attack hit two nine-storey apartment blocks in Ternopil, a city in western Ukraine, according to interior minister Ihor Klymenko.

Emergency crews were sifting through the rubble in daylight to find any survivors, he said.

Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia (to stop the war) is insufficient

At least 66 people were reported injured, including 16 children.

Russia fired 476 strike and decoy drones, as well as 48 missiles of various types, at Ukrainian targets overnight, Ukraines air force said.

Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia (to stop the war) is insufficient, Mr Zelensky wrote on the messaging app Telegram.

The Ukrainian leader said he would meet Turkeys President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, later Wednesday as part of his efforts to diplomatically isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin and bring more international pressure to bear on him.

Foremost, we will discuss maximum capabilities to ensure that Ukraine achieves a just peace, Mr Zelensky said of his talks with Mr Erdogan, adding that the leaders have good relations.

Mr Zelensky also said: We see some positions and signals from the United States, well, lets see tomorrow.

A fire at a residential building damaged by a Russian strike on Kharkiv (Andrii Marienko/AP)

He did not elaborate but tough new American sanctions on Russias oil industry, devised to push Mr Putin to the negotiating table, are due to take effect on Friday.

A senior Turkish official initially said that US special envoy Steve Witkoff would join Mr Zelensky in Turkey, but backtracked later in the day and said Mr Witkoff would not be coming.

The Ukrainian city of Ternopil, located around 120 miles from the Polish border, sits in a part of relatively peaceful western Ukraine where many people from the east and south moved to as they fled danger along the front line.

Almost 50 people were injured in Russian strikes on three other Ukrainian regions.

Russias defence ministry said it attacked Ukrainian energy facilities and military-industrial targets, including long-range drone depots, in retaliation against strikes by Kyiv on Russian territory.

Two Eurofighter Typhoon jets and two F-16s were scrambled in Romania when a drone entered the Nato members airspace during the Russian attacks, Romanias Ministry of National Defence said.

Crews work to put out a fire in Kharkiv (Andrii Marienko/AP)

The Polish military said that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed in the middle of the night as a preventive measure.

Polands Rzeszow and Lublin airports were closed temporarily to prioritise military aviation, the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency said.

In north-eastern Kharkiv, Ukraines second-largest city, Russian drones injured 46 people, including two girls, the head of the regional military administration, Oleh Syniehubov, wrote on Telegram.

Drones hit several city districts, at least 16 residential buildings, an ambulance station, school and other civilian infrastructure, he said.

Meanwhile, the Russian Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that Ukraine fired four American-supplied ATACMS missiles at the Russian city of Voronezh on Tuesday.

All four were intercepted, the ministry said, adding there were no casualties.

Ukraines General Staff on Tuesday reported firing ATACMS missiles at Russia without offering details.
19 people were killed and 66 wounded, including 16 children, in a heavy overnight Russian attack that struck a residential tower block in the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil, Ukrainian officials said on Wednesday (November 19). Reuters footage from the city showed a building's upper floors torn away and firefighters on a ladder extinguishing flames.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed multi-storey residential buildings had been hit in Ternopil, and said others may be trapped under the rubble. He urged allies to increase pressure on Russia to end its nearly four-year-old war in Ukraine, including by providing Kyiv with more air-defence missiles. The Ukrainian leader said he would meet Turkeys President, Recep Tayyip Erdogan, later Wednesday as part of his efforts to diplomatically isolate Russian President Vladimir Putin and bring more international pressure to bear on him.
Nigerias president has postponed his trip to this weekends G20 summit after promising to intensify efforts to rescue 24 schoolgirls who were abducted by gunmen earlier this week in a north-western region of the country.

President Bola Tinubu had been set to leave for South Africa on Wednesday, days before the summit of the worlds leading rich and developing nations was due to begin.

But Mr Tinubu said that he was suspending his departure in light of the abductions and a separate church attack in which gunmen killed two people, spokesperson Bayo Onanuga said in a statement.

Disturbed by the security breaches in Kebbi state and Tuesdays attack by bandits against worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, President Tinubu decided to suspend his departure to the G20 summit, Mr Onanuga said.

A vendor displays local newspapers on the streets of Lagos (Sunday Alamba/AP)

It was not immediately clear if or when Mr Tinubu would leave for the summit, which runs over Saturday and Sunday in Johannesburg.

The girls were kidnapped from their dormitory before dawn on Monday, when gunmen attacked their boarding school, the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, in the town of Maga in Nigerias Kebbi state.

Local police said that the gunmen scaled the fence to enter the dorm and exchanged gunfire with police officers guarding the school before seizing the girls and killing a staff member.

No group has claimed responsibility for the attack, but analysts and locals say gangs often target schools, travellers and remote villagers in kidnappings for ransom.

Authorities say the gunmen are mostly former herders who have taken up arms against farming communities after clashes between them over strained resources.

We notified the security operatives of the planned attack. Had they acted on the information we provided, this tragedy could have been avoided

Dan Juma Umar, a civil society leader in Maga, said that it was not the first time gunmen had attacked the area and that residents had alerted security force members about suspicious movements three days before the attack on the school.

We notified the security operatives of the planned attack. Had they acted on the information we provided, this tragedy could have been avoided, he told The Associated Press (AP).

Hawau Usman, a 15-year-old student who was among those abducted, had managed to escape.

They kept moving, and when they left, I ran back to the school, the youngster told the AP on Tuesday.

I knocked on the principals house, but no-one answered, she said, adding that she later found refuge at a teachers house.

Mr Tinubu said in a statement released late on Tuesday that he has directed the security agencies to act swiftly and bring the girls back to Kebbi state.

The attack happened at the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School in the town of Maga in Kebbi state (Tunde Omolehin/AP)

He expressed regret that the heartless terrorists have disrupted the education of innocent schoolgirls.

At least 1,500 students have been abducted in the region since Boko Haram jihadi extremists seized 276 Chibok schoolgirls more than a decade ago. But bandits are also active in the region, and analysts say gangs often target schools to gain attention.

Nigeria has recently been thrust into the spotlight when US president Donald Trump singled the country out, saying Christians were being persecuted  an allegation that the government rejected.

Analysts and residents blame the insecurity on a failure to prosecute known attackers, and the rampant corruption that limits weapons supplies to security forces while ensuring a steady supply to the gangs.
Harvard University has reopened an investigation into connections between its former president Larry Summers and Jeffrey Epstein, a university spokesperson said, as Mr Summers office said he would resign from the board of OpenAI, the maker of ChatGPT.

Regarded as a leading voice on the US economy, Mr Summers was also affiliated with multiple think tanks, research centres and media organisations. Several of these confirmed their affiliations had ended.

Harvard did not mention Mr Summers by name, but the decision to restart the investigation follows the release of emails showing that Mr Summers, a former US treasury secretary, maintained a friendly relationship with Epstein long after the financier pleaded guilty to soliciting prostitution from an underage girl in 2008.

The university is conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents to evaluate what actions may be warranted, spokesperson Jason Newton said in a statement first reported by The Boston Globe and The Harvard Crimson.

Former Harvard University president Larry Summers waves during Harvard commencement exercises in 2018 (Michael Dwyer/AP)

An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex-crimes conviction and was given his own office and unfettered access to a research centre he helped establish.

The professor who provided the office was later barred from starting new research or advising students for at least two years.

Mr Summers said late on Monday that he would step back from public commitments. His office said on Wednesday this included resigning from the board of directors of OpenAI.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress, he said in a statement.

The OpenAI board said it appreciated Mr Summers contributions and perspective.

Mr Summers joined the OpenAI board in November 2023, part of an effort to restore stability at the not-for-profit organisation and bring back its chief executive, Sam Altman, after previous board members fired Mr Altman days earlier.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr Epstein and that I've said that I'm going to step back from public activities for a while

Mr Summers appeared before his economics class on Tuesday and addressed his involvement with Epstein.

Some of you will have seen my statement of regret expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr Epstein and that Ive said that Im going to step back from public activities for a while. But I think its very important to fulfil my teaching obligations, he said.

Mr Summers remarks were captured on video by Harvard student Rosie Couture, who shared the video online.

Epstein, who authorities said died by suicide in 2019, was a convicted sex offender known for his connections to wealthy and powerful people, making him a fixture of outrage and conspiracy theories about wrongdoing among American elites.

Mr Summers served as treasury secretary from 1999 to 2001 under former US president Bill Clinton.

He was Harvards president for five years from 2001 to 2006.

When asked about the emails last week, Mr Summers issued a statement saying he had great regrets in my life and that his association with Epstein was a major error in judgment.

Other organisations that confirmed the end of their affiliations with Mr Summers included the Centre for American Progress, the Centre for Global Development and the Budget Lab at Yale University.

Bloomberg TV said Mr Summers withdrawal from public commitments included his role as a paid contributor, and the New York Times said it would not renew his contract as a contributing opinion writer.
( Middle East Monitor )  The recent vote in the UN Security Council on Gaza  with Russia and China pointedly abstaining and the West once again attempting to choreograph the outcome  marked a moment that history may one day identify as a subtle but decisive shift. Not because the resolution itself alters the facts on the ground. It doesnt. Gaza remains in ruins, Palestinians remain under the boot of an unrestrained occupying power, and Washington still acts as the global custodian of Israeli impunity.

Rather, this vote matters because it revealed something the West has long tried to conceal: that Palestinians no longer accept, and the world no longer believes in, the idea that Gaza is a space to be managed, administered, stabilised, or reconstructed by external custodians  feigning benevolence. Not by the United States. Not by Europe. Not by a TrumpNetanyahu blueprint dressed up in humanitarian language. Not even by international institutions that imagine themselves neutral while enabling the status quo.

The era when Great Powers could simply appoint themselves guardians of Palestine, deciding who governs Gaza and how, is culminating. The vote exposed the exhaustion of this imperial pretence. Gaza is not a Protectorate. It is not a failed territory awaiting trusteeship. It is not a strategic sandbox for Western experiments in post-conflict governance. Gaza is an occupied land belonging to a people who demand  and are entitled to complete self-rule.

To insist that Palestinians need custodians is not only politically fraudulent. It is legally unsustainable. Gaza is not real estate waiting for a landlord. Gaza is not a geopolitical vacuum into which global powers can insert their solutions. Gaza is Palestinian land, and under international law, Palestinians alone have the right to determine its future.

Everything else  the Western reconstruction plans, the security mechanisms, the talk of Arab-led stabilisation, the proposal to outsource Gaza to a foreign administration  is, but a thin repackaging of the same old project, to deny Palestinians sovereignty under the guise of responsible management.

The UNSC vote and the myth of neutral guardianship

The West desperately sought a resolution that would legitimise its vision of Gazas day after  a vision that both Trump and Netanyahu have crudely articulated, namely that Gaza must be contained, fragmented, and directed by powers other than the people who live there. The resolutions language attempted to smuggle in the idea that Gaza requires a carefully supervised transition, with acceptable Palestinian actors vetted by Israel and the United States.

Russia and China abstained not out of indifference but to signal the obvious: this resolution was never about Palestinian self-determination. It was about manufacturing consent for externally designed governance structures. By withholding their support, Moscow and Beijing made clear that the Wests attempt to codify a custodial order over Gaza lacked legitimacy.

But more importantly, Palestinian society itself has rendered such proposals obsolete. Across Gaza, the West Bank, and the diaspora, the message is unmistakable: no more trustees, no more guardians, no more caretakers of the Palestinian will.

International law is unambiguous: Gaza is not yours to govern

Under the Fourth Geneva Convention and the core principles of the UN Charter, the right of a people under occupation is not to be administered by third parties but to exercise national self-determination. Every transitional authority imposed by foreign powers  no matter how humanitarian its vocabulary  violates this principle.

Gazas status is not ambiguous.

Israel is the occupying power.

The occupation is illegal.

The siege is collective punishment.

And the right to self-government rests solely with Palestinians not with international coalitions claiming to act on their behalf.

The Wests repeated attempts to design the administrative architecture of Gaza are not proposals; they are breaches of law dressed in diplomatic language. Even the insistence that Gaza must be governed by reformed Palestinian institutions vetted by Western capitals is a violation of the basic principle of self-determination. The political configuration of Palestinian governance is the exclusive domain of Palestinians. Not Tel Aviv. Not Washington. Not Brussels. And certainly not former colonial powers still struggling to reconcile with the fact that their era is over.

Gaza is not real estate: it is history, identity, and national continuity

The West continues to speak of Gaza as if it were a property problem. A place to be rebuilt, administered, secured, fenced, or leased. A space to be redesigned through development packages and security compacts. But Gaza is not a zone of crisis management  it is one of the oldest, most continuous communities of the Palestinian people. Gaza is, in point of fact, an ancient historical entity with a continuous history of habitation spanning over 4,000 years, functioning as a vital trade hub and a crossroads of civilizations between Egypt and the Levant.

For the West, real estate thinking comes naturally. Land is property. Property is power. And power belongs to those who can enforce it. It is a capitalist notion of tenure and tenants.

For Palestinians, the paradigm is in stark contrast. Land is memory, belonging, and the right to exist as a people. Gaza contains the living history of displacement: families rooted in villages across what is now Israel, carrying the trauma of the Nakba, holding keys to homes they were violently expelled from. Gaza is not an administrative unit. It is the beating heart of Palestinian nationhood.

This is why every attempt to partition, rehabilitate, internationalise, or reassign Gaza collapses. Because Palestine is not a managerial problem  it is a national question. The West keeps trying to govern land, while Palestinians insist on governing themselves.

Why the West cannot govern Gaza  not even for its own good

The Wests failure is not merely moral. It is structural. Its record in the Middle East is a catalogue of disasters rooted in the same patronising assumption: that Arabs and Muslims require guidance, supervision, and discipline from civilised powers.

In Iraq, Afghanistan, Libya, and Lebanon, foreign custodianship destroyed far more than it built. But Gaza is an even more glaring case. For decades, Western states funded the siege, shielded Israel from accountability, armed the occupation, and vilified Palestinian political expression. These are not neutral actors. They are co-architects of the catastrophe.

A custodian cannot simultaneously be the enabler of oppression. Western claims to benevolent governance are incompatible with their decades-long support for Israels domination of Palestinian life. If the West truly wanted Gaza to be free, safe, and stable, it would stop arming the state that bombs its people, destroys its hospitals, starves its children, and flattens its neighbourhoods. Instead, it offers proposals for responsible administration that Palestinians are expected to accept with gratitude.

No occupied people in history have ever accepted such terms  and Palestinians will not be the first.

In the final analysis, Palestinian self-rule is not an aspiration; it is an inevitability. The West, in its sophisticated crudity, continues to behave as though Palestinian sovereignty is a privilege that may be granted once Palestinians mature into acceptable political actors. This worldview is a relic of colonial paternalism. It is the same logic the British used in Mandate Palestine, arguing that Palestinians were not yet capable of governing the land they had inhabited for centuries.

But history keeps asserting itself. Every uprising, every wave of resistance, every assertion of national identity is a reminder that Palestinians do not seek permission to exist as a people. They claim it by right. The UNSC vote may not deliver liberation, but it revealed a deeper truth: the world is no longer convinced by Western narratives of Palestinian incapacity. A growing global consensus recognises that Gaza cannot be governed by external powers because the external powers bear responsibility for the devastation. From trusteeship to liberation: the shift is already underway

The world is changing. Younger generations across continents are rejecting the old colonial storylines. South Africas leadership, Latin American states, African blocs, Asian alliances  all increasingly speak in a language the West hoped would disappear: the language of anti-colonial justice.



Photo of United Nations Plaza by the blowup on Unsplash

Gaza is not a humanitarian crisis to be managed. It is a liberation struggle to be recognised. This is why the TrumpNetanyahu vision for Gazas future  a patchwork of controlled zones, demilitarised enclaves, and externally appointed governors  is already dead-on arrival. Only those who misunderstand the moment believe that Palestinians will accept such an arrangement.

The vote at the UNSC did not resolve the struggle. But it exposed the limits of Western custodianship and the persistence of Palestinian determination. The imperial toolbox is empty. Whatever may remain of it is valueless and obsolete. The language of trusteeship has lost legitimacy. And Palestinians are making it clear that the future of Gaza will not be negotiated over their heads  it will be shaped by their own hands.

No more guardians. No more intermediaries. No more custodians

The world cannot govern Gaza. The West cannot stabilise Gaza. Israel cannot redesign Gaza. And no international coalition can administer Gaza without becoming part of the machinery that denies Palestinians their sovereignty.

Gazas future belongs to Palestinians  not as a concession, but as a right rooted in history, law, and the unbreakable continuity of a people who refuse to be erased. No more custodians. No more trustees. No more guardians.

Palestinians will rule Gaza  because Gaza is Palestine, and Palestine belongs to its people.

The views expressed in this article belong to the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial policy of Middle East Monitor or Informed Comment.

The author, Ranjan Solomon from Goa, India, is a political commentator and human rights advocate with a longstanding commitment to cultural pluralism, interfaith harmony, and social justice. He works on the right of nations to define their own destinies free of hegemonic narratives. He can be contacted at ranjan.solomon@gmail.com.

Via Middle East Monitor
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  Al-Jazeera reports on the visit of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman to the White House.

One US goal for the meeting was to induct Saudi Arabia into the Abraham Accords, which Bahrain, the United Arab Emirates, Morocco and Kazakhstan have joined, recognizing Israel in return for US economic and security pledges or other quid pro quos, in such a way as to throw the Palestinians under the bus. Some believe the Abraham Accords led to the October 7, 2023 attack on Israel by Hamas, the leaders of which feared being permanently sidelined.

Bin Salman politely declined the invitation, saying he could only sign on to the accords if a firm pathway to statehood for the Palestinians were established. Since the Israeli government is dead set against any Palestinian state, insisting the Palestinians remain serfs without rights forever, Bin Salman is excusing himself from the entire affair. He has previously expressed fears of being assassinated if he signed the accords while the Israelis were actively genociding the Palestinians.

Trump nevertheless proclaimed his friendship for Bin Salman and praised him for having pledged $600 billion in Saudi investments in the United States over four years. Bin Salman then promised to nearly double it to $1 trillion.

Or by check:

Juan Cole

P. O. Box 4218,

Ann Arbor, MI 48104-2548

USA

(Remember, make the checks out to Juan Cole or they cant be cashed)

Like most things in Trumpworld these investment figures are pure fantasies, and it is disturbing that he is apparently making geopolitical policy on this basis. After the meeting, Trump elevated Saudi Arabia to the status of major non-NATO ally.

Even the Gulf-funded think tank in Washington, DC, The Arab Gulf States Institute or AGSI, found the initial $600 billion investment commitment implausible, much less $1 trillion. Analyst Tim Callen showed that these astronomical sums are vast exaggerations.

Saudi Arabia typically imports about $100 billion of US goods every 4 years, or about $25 billion a year. Saudi investments in US securities and other financial instruments could be as much as $770 billion, but it could also be half that. It is impossible to know for sure because many investments may be made through third parties like the Turks and Caicos islands and other secretive banking sites. How likely is it that these investments will rise by hundreds of billions of dollars in 4 years?

Callen wrote,

The scale of the $600 billion commitment needs to be put in context. The $150 billion per year average this implies is equivalent to 14% of Saudi Arabias annual gross domestic product, 40% of its annual export revenue, and just over 50% of its annual imports of goods and services. For context, 9% of Saudi Arabias goods imports so far in 2024 have come from the United States compared to 23% from China.

Tens of billions of arms sales are planned, of course, and the manufacture of gpu chips for large language models (Artificial Intelligence) could also result in tens of billions of investments, with US firms such as Nvidia profiting. These investments, however, wont come to a trillion dollars by 2029.

Trump agreed at Tuesdays meeting to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to the Kingdom. They cost as much as $109 million per plane. It is a controversial offer, because that plane, for all its faults, is the most advanced in the US arsenal and until now has not been offered to any Middle Eastern countries except Israel. Several NATO countries have bought it, as have Japan, South Korea and Australia.

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Israel has a doctrine that it should always outstrip other countries in the region in its access to the highest-tech US weaponry. For Saudi Arabia to level the playing field by also having F-35s violates this doctrine. Trump, however, is unfazed by the strategic calculations of the Israelis. He seemed to put the US relationship with Saudi Arabia on the same level as that with Israel, saying they were both friends. No one in Tel Aviv wanted to hear that.

It reminds me of the time in the 1980s when Ronald Reagan fought the AIPAC-oriented Congress to provide the Saudis with AWACs (Airborne Warning and Control System surveillance planes) at a time when the Saudis were key to opposing the Soviet occupation of Afghanistan. The Israel lobbies dont always get their way.



File Photo: President Donald Trump speaks with Mohammed bin Salman, Deputy Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia, during their meeting Tuesday, March 14, 2017, in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead.) Public Domain. Via Wikimedia Commons

Some security analysts are afraid that if the Saudis get F-35s, their close relations with China will enable Chinese intelligence to discover its technological secrets, though since so many such analysts in the US are close to the Israel lobbies, it is hard to know whether their discomfort with this sale is genuinely owing to apprehensions about China or if it derives from a desire to sink the deal lest Israel lose its military superiority over Saudi Arabia.

The Saudis became alarmed about Israeli aggressiveness when it bombed Qatar on September 9, 2025, and they signed a mutual security pact with nuclear-armed Pakistan in the aftermath.

Bin Salmans visit to Washington very much comes under the shadow of that Israeli assault on one of the members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Oman and the United Arab Emirates), which showed that the US was not a wholly reliable security partner  or Washington would have told Israel that no, it cant bomb Qatar.

The Saudi response has been twofold. One is to cozy up even more to the United States, attempting to make security for itself also essential to American security. The other is to diversify Riyadhs alliances, tightening ties with Pakistan and India.

The implausible investments Bin Salman pledged to Trump are part of the first strategy. Even if they dont invest $1 trillion, they will invest many billions, and Trump likes the sound of that.
Tanzania's main opposition party on Wednesday rejected a commission set up to probe killings during last month's election, saying it is not "independent" but a "scheme to hide the truth".

President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner of the October 29 poll with 98 percent of the vote, but the polls triggered widespread protests that were brutally suppressed by security forces, who are accused of killing hundreds.

Last week, Hassan announced the formation of a commission of inquiry into the killings, her first conciliatory gesture toward protesters since the unrest.

"The commission cannot be independent or impartial, especially in a situation where the government is the primary suspect in the crimes being investigated," the Chadema party said on Wednesday in a statement on X.

The government has remained silent on casualty figures, but images and videos -- some not independently verified -- of the purported violence continue to circulate on social media.

An internet blackout during and after the election has also complicated efforts to confirm the scale of the violence.

The Chadema party said the commission "is a scheme to hide the truth, erase evidence and further harm the victims".

"It is an attempt to turn victims into offenders while sanitizing the real perpetrators," it said.

It urged international institutions to "pressure" Hassan for an "independent international investigation".

The statement also insisted that commission members "must have no ties... to the government or the ruling party".

On Tuesday, ACT Wazalendo, another opposition party, also rejected the commission, labelling it a "mockery to those who lost their lives".

Religious leaders in the east African nation have condemned the killings and called for independent investigations.

Hassan retained her post after her main opponents were jailed or disqualified.

The African Union said the polls did not comply with "standards for democratic elections".
Mozambique said Wednesday it will audit $4.5 billion in potential losses claimed by French oil giant TotalEnergies following a nearly five-year halt of its massive gas project in the southern African nation.

The $20-billion liquefied natural gas project was paused in 2021 following a bloody jihadist attack that killed an estimated 800 people.

TotalEnergies last month lifted the force majeure it had declared after the siege and sought $4.5 billion in cost overruns linked to the delay, to be covered by the Mozambique government.

The council of ministers agreed to restart the project and will review costs from the force majeure period before approving the project's updated development plan, the government said.

The government will also ensure "monitoring of the project implementation across various cross-cutting matters," it added.

TotalEnergies is also seeking a 10-year extension to its concession, more than double the length of the delay. It was not immediately clear if Maputo will approve the extension.

The company has said it hopes to resume production at the gas site in 2029, subject to government approval of its new budget plan.

Mozambican and international NGOs last month accused TotalEnergies of holding Mozambique "hostage" by its demands.

TotalEnergies owns a 26.5 percent stake in the project.

Northern Mozambique has been battered by a bloody jihadist insurgency since late 2017.

The group often referred to as "Al-Shabaab" by locals and authorities -- despite no known link to the Somali jihadist group -- seeks to impose Sharia law in Cabo Delgado, a neglected outpost that has become fertile ground for radical ideology.

In a major incident in March 2021, the insurgents attacked the port town of Palma, a few kilometres from the TotalEnergies site, sending thousands of people fleeing into the surrounding forest.

Conflict tracker ACLED estimated more than 800 people were killed in the attack.

The European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights (ECCHR), a German NGO, on Tuesday said it had filed a legal complaint against TotalEnergies, accusing it of "complicity in war crimes" by local troops at the gas site.

The case was filed with France's national anti-terrorism prosecutor.

It focuses on alleged abuses between July and September 2021 by soldiers belonging to a joint task force (JTF) deployed to protect TotalEnergies gas site.

str-ho/cw

TotalEnergies
French authorities have expanded an investigation into Elon Musk's platform X to include "Holocaust-denying comments" generated by its AI chatbot Grok, the Paris prosecutor's office said Wednesday.

A Grok X post on Monday in French said the gas chambers at the Nazi death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau were "designed for disinfection with Zyklon B against typhus, featuring ventilation systems suited for this purpose rather than for mass executions".

The comments were still visible on X as of 1800 GMT on Wednesday and had been viewed a million times.

Nazi Germany murdered six million European Jews during World War II.

More than one million people died at the Auschwitz-Birkenau camp built by Nazi Germany when it occupied Poland in World War II -- most of them Jews.

Zyklon B was the poison gas used to kill inmates in gas chambers in the camp.

The "Holocaust-denying comments shared by the artificial intelligence Grok, on X, have been included in the ongoing investigation conducted by the cybercrime division of the Paris prosecutor's office, and the functioning of the AI will be analysed within this framework", the prosecutor's office told AFP.

In July, French authorities launched an investigation into claims that X, formerly known as Twitter, skewed its algorithm to allow "foreign interference", with the probe examining the actions of the company and its senior managers.

The French Human Rights League (LDH) and anti-discrimination group SOS Racisme have also said they would file complaints over the Grok post for "disputing crimes against humanity".

fbe-gd-pgr/mat/swi/sw/sbk

X
The International Criminal Court (ICC) said Wednesday that Israel had demanded the disqualification of its top prosecutor and the cancellation of arrest warrants against top Israeli officials over the Gaza war.

Israel had accused Karim Khan on Monday of wanting to "divert public attention" from allegations over his behaviour by requesting arrest warrants for Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and former defence minister Yoav Gallant, accusing the pair of complicity in war crimes committed by Israel in the Palestinian territory.

Khan is currently on leave pending an investigation into accusations of sexual misconduct, which he has denied.

"The State of Israel submitted today (Monday) to the Appeals Chamber of the International Criminal Court (ICC) a request to disqualify the Court's Prosecutor, Mr. Karim Khan, from involvement in proceedings concerning Israel," Foreign Ministry Spokesman Oren Marmorstein posted on X.

Marmorstein accused Khan of "improper personal motives to advance false and unfounded allegations against Israel", including by advancing "baseless and outrageous warrants".

"These actions were intended to divert public attention from severe accusations against him of serial sexual harassment of a subordinate employee," the spokesman alleged.

On its website, the Hague-based court published a document confirming it had received a "Request to Disqualify the Prosecutor and for Ancillary Remedies", without offering any clarification.

According to various media reports, Khan was accused of inappropriate sexual behaviour towards a woman who worked at his office.

Last year, Khan asked the ICC to issue arrest warrants for Netanyahu, Gallant and three senior Hamas officials.

Despite Israel appealing to the court, the warrants against Netanyahu and Gallant were granted and remain outstanding.

The court is also currently examining an Israeli challenge to its competence.
US President Donald Trump vowed Wednesday to end Sudan's grinding civil war at the request of Saudi Arabia's crown prince, condemning "tremendous atrocities" in a conflict he has previously overlooked.

Trump admitted that the devastating war between Sudan's army and the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF) was "not on my charts" before Prince Mohammed bin Salman pushed him to get involved.

But Trump said he would now work to "stabilize" the conflict with regional powers, notably including the United Arab Emirates, which denies accusations of backing the RSF with weapons and mercenaries.

The United Nations has repeatedly called for greater global attention to the war, which has killed tens of thousands of people and displaced nearly 12 million since its outbreak in April 2023.

"His majesty would like me to do something very powerful having to do with Sudan," Trump said at a business forum with the Saudi royal a day after Prince Mohammed received a lavish reception at the White House.

"It was not on my charts to be involved in, I thought it was just something that was crazy and out of control. But I just see how important that is to you, and to a lot of your friends in the room, Sudan. And we're going to start working on Sudan."

Sudan's Saudi-backed sovereign council, which is headed by army chief Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, said it was ready to cooperate with the United States and Riyadh.

In a statement, the council thanked Washington and Riyadh for "their continued efforts to stop Sudanese bloodshed."

International attention on the conflict has increased since the RSF recently seized the key Darfur city of El-Fasher after a relentless siege that has sparked warnings of crimes against humanity and genocide.

- 'Immediate halt' -

Trump had barely commented on the Sudan war in the nine months since he returned to office, focusing instead on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine.

But on Wednesday, the 79-year-old Republican said he would use the "influence of the presidency to bring an immediate halt" to the war.

"Tremendous atrocities are taking place in Sudan. It has become the most violent place on Earth," Trump said on his Truth Social network a few hours after his initial comments.

"We will work with Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern partners to get these atrocities to end, while at the same time stabilizing Sudan."

While the conflict has been off Trump's radar, Washington has stepped up efforts in recent months to resolve it.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio called the UAE's foreign minister on Friday to urge Abu Dhabi to back a Sudan ceasefire.

Trump's own Africa envoy Massad Boulos on Saturday told AFP that the war in Sudan was the "world's biggest humanitarian crisis."

Trump repeatedly claims to have solved eight conflicts since returning to office in January as he seeks a Nobel Peace Prize.

His promise to start working on the Sudan conflict reflects his close ties with the de facto Saudi leader, whom he hosted at the White House for a lavish visit on Tuesday.

Their closeness was also underscored by his comments in the Oval Office on Tuesday, during which Trump defended the prince over the 2018 murder of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi, saying the prince "knew nothing".






Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - Popular Mugithi deejay and content creator, DJ Dibul, has finally addressed rumours circulating online suggesting that he has been a victim of domestic abuse.

Rumours on social media alleged that his celebrity wife, actress Dorea Chege, had physically assaulted him, reportedly causing him to miss a recent club gig to tend to his injuries.

Taking to his Facebook account, DJ Dibul dismissed the rumours, expressing shock at the allegations and emphasizing that they were untrue.

He also used the platform to invite fans to his upcoming shows, urging them to focus on his music and performances rather than gossip.

Check out his post.





The Kenyan DAILY POST




Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - Media personality, Janet Mbugua, has praised former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko for stepping in to protect his daughter, Salma, from an abusive marriage, saying his swift action may have saved her life.





In a video statement shared on Instagram, Janet acknowledged Sonkos notorious reputation but insisted that his response was exemplary.





Yes, he is a polarising figure, but he did what most families fail to do. He went straight into the gender-based recovery centre, and he saved her life, she said.





Mbugua highlighted the complex realities survivors face, noting that abuse is rarely about choice.





Fear and love live in the same space. Economic dependence is real. Stigma and shame are real, she explained, underscoring the emotional and psychological traps victims often endure.





She urged families to be proactive and supportive, stressing that compassion must extend beyond rescue.





What does being proactive look like? It looks like checking in even after a survivor has left. It means paying attention to signs or patterns you can name, and being a safe space for the person affected. Remember, shame, stigma, and fear are real.





She encouraged Kenyans to share resources such as Gender-Based Recovery Centres (GBRCs) and avoid judgment.





It means sharing resources like GBRC and others online. But it really means paying attention and not loading judgement on somebody who is already fearing for her life, she added.





The incident first came to light through Sonkos social media, where he described the distress call from Salma.





Today, we received a distress call her voice trembling, her spirit broken. I acted immediately, because no mother or father can sit still when their child is hurting, he said.










Tuesday, November 18, 2025 - Kakamega Senator Bonnie Khalwale is facing serious allegations after claims emerged that he allegedly wrecked his own sons marriage.

According to Kakamega Deputy Governor Ayub Savula, one of Khalwales fiercest critics, the outspoken Senator snatched his sons wife and married her, an accusation he made during a public function in Malava.

Savula used the platform to call out Khalwale for what he described as rogue behavior, warning locals against re-electing him, and claiming that he is not fit to lead.

Khalwale, a well-known polygamist, has long attracted public scrutiny for his personal life and relationships.

He has yet to respond to the allegations.

Watch the video HERE>>>

The Kenyan DAILY POST
A lofty new housing delivery target of 948 homes per year up to 2034 has been revealed by Kilkenny County Council in a bid to keep the county in line with the national targets outlined by the government as part of the recently revised National Planning Framework.

These new targets were revealed and explained to elected members during this weeks local authority plenary meeting by Acting Director of Services, Denis Malone.

Central to achieving this target will be the rezoning of strategic zoned lands, particularly in Kilkenny City.

READ NEXT: 'Common sense' solution outlined as Kilkenny area left stifled by poor water quality

Also of huge significance will be incorporating the new housing requirements into relevant development plans for strategic towns across the county.

Cathaoirleach of Kilkenny County Council, Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh, raised concerns about the smaller parishes across the county.

She expressed discontent in relation to perceived growth of Kilkenny City relative to smaller areas that dont have water [infrastructure].

Cllr Pat Dunphy was amongst those to agree and point out the role of Irish Water (since rebranded as Uisce Eireann) in the delivery of these new housing targets.

Implementation is the key to all this, he said, we need a plan for implementation.

Cllr Pat Fitzpatrick emphasised the need to both zone more land and the need for utility companies to line up.

READ NEXT: Big name to perform alongside local choir at upcoming Kilkenny concert

Cllr Sean O hArgain queried whether community and retail facilities have been factored into the new housing targets.

As a parent, this is really urgent, he said. My children, adult children, my grandchild, are part of a generation being left aside while were not delivering on a national level.

Cllr Maria Dollard criticised the lack of urgency from state organisations who sit on large banks to develop them and also asked about how local vacant and derelict properties could be factored into the targets.

Cllr Eugene McGuinness stated that achieving the new targets is infrastructure dependent and added that Irish Water are simply not doing it.

Responding, Mr Malone stated that the recently announced proposal whereby Irish Water would have to assume responsibility of EPA compliant private-led water infrastructure would assist.

Mr Malone also stated that activity is happening around the issue of derelict sites, and that activity has been ramped up in the last year.

READ NEXT: Exciting Christmas festivals scheduled to take place in Kilkenny this December

Cllr Michael Doyle and Cllr Tomas Breathnach subsequently raised their own concerns about a potential imbalance of development due to infrastructural constraints.

Cllr John Brennan cited a disconnect in terms of rural development.

A lot of villages need an upgrade in sewerage services, he said.

Cllr David Fitzgerald welcomed the facts that small towns and villages can proceed with developer-led infrastructure, describing it as a huge step forward but raised concerns about land for healthcare provision.

St Lukes Campus is rapidly reaching capacity, he said. Are you looking at lands outside the strategic reserve?

Cllr Deirdre Cullen cited the key role of one-off rural housing on family-owned land in her contribution and the absence of clear national guidelines on same.

In relation to private-led water infrastructure, Mr Malone stated that the devil will be in the detail, and on whats in the regulations.

READ NEXT: Kilkenny MEP hits out at 'double standards' that are 'clear for the world to see'

Cllr Jenny Catt Slattery stated that in Mullinavat 'the population is on the decrease whilst also still being way down the line (on the Irish Water priority list).

Many councillors raised the HSE Lacken Site in Kilkenny City as a potential site for housing delivery, and posed queries in relation to its future.

Mr Malone stated that the local authority is awaiting final correspondence from the HSE and is anticipating the publication of a draft site masterplan in early 2026.

FOR MORE LOCAL NEWS, CLICK HERE
With temperatures beginning to drop and the first frosts of winter due this week across parts of Ireland, Uisce Eireann is offering advice on how to avoid the inconvenience and expense of burst pipes and water outages during cold weather.

A Status Yellow Snow and Ice Warning has been issued for Cavan, Donegal, Monaghan, Leitrim and Sligo which is due to come into effect from midnight tonight until 12pm on Thursday as temperatures are set to plummet.

READ NEXT: Five counties hit with snow and ice warnings as temperatures set to plummet

Wintry showers of hail, sleet and snow are expected, with some modest accumulations in places, especially on high ground with impacts including hazardous travelling conditions and icy stretches. Motorists are advised to drive with caution.

Uisce Eireann has warned households to be vigilant in the coming days as water expands by nearly 10% when frozen, which can cause even new pipes to split, leading to leaks and flooding.

Top Tips to Stay Winter Ready

Insulate exposed pipes and water tanks: Lagging material helps prevent freezing and heat loss.

Fix dripping taps: Even small leaks can freeze and block pipes.

Service your boiler: an efficient boiler will keep your home warm and also help to reduce your energy use.

Locate your stop valve: Know how to turn off water quickly in an emergency.

Minimise draughts: Cold air coming from outside can cause pipes to freeze inside your home

READ NEXT: Templemore Garda College welcomes highest intake of trainee Garda since 2014

Sign up for Uisce Eireanns free text alert service to stay informed about water outages and works in your area by simply visiting water.ie and entering your phone number and address.

Margaret Attridge, Uisce Eireanns head of water operations, said:

"We know from previous winters that freezing conditions can cause significant disruption for homes and businesses across the country. By taking simple steps nowlike insulating pipes and checking stop valves you can prevent costly damage and help keep water flowing for everyone.

"Our crews are ready to respond, but prevention is always better than cure."

READ NEXT: Roblox to block Irish kids from talking to adults in an attempt to curb grooming

Margaret is also advising that people should not leave taps running as this will not necessarily prevent pipes from freezing and can impact on your local water supply.

"We also recommend that people don't run taps continually as this is not an effective way of preventing frozen pipes and can cause other problems such as frozen drains. It also puts further pressure on water supplies that may already be challenged by the freezing conditions.

Visit https://www.water.ie/winterproofing for step-by-step guidance and videos on protecting your home.
News that the Diocese of Ossory is to lose its bishop for the third time in just 10 years has been met with disappointment and frustration in the local community.



Bishop Niall Coll has been appointed by Pope Leo XIV to be Bishop of Raphoe.

With the appointment, Bishop Coll returns to his home county of Donegal, where he was born and raised, ordained and served as a parish priest.

The news was announced simultaneously at mass in St Eunans Cathedral in Letterkenny, and in the Vatican, last Thursday.

However, amid the personal well wishes, news that the Diocese of Ossory is now without a bishop raised the ire of some. One local councillor, Cllr Mary Hilda Cavanagh, wished Bishop Coll well, but declared it is time to send a message to the Vatican that the Diocese of Ossory is not a training ground for bishops.

Cllr Cavanagh said: Send us a bishop and leave us our bishop!

There is also concern among some members of the clergy and laity that this latest move, coupled with the departure of diocesan administrators, hampers any kind of long-term planning.

Bishop Coll was consecrated as the Bishop of Ossory on December 29, 2022. He took up the role from Bishop Dermot Farrell who was appointed on January 3, 2018, and moved to the Dublin diocese on December 29, 2020. Following the retirement of Bishop Seamus Freeman in July 2016, the seat remained vacant for two years. By comparison, the three previous Bishops of Ossory served a combined 52 years in the diocese.



During his three years in Kilkenny, Bishop Coll made many friends in Ossory but also fell afoul of some communities who did not agree with parish assignments.



Last summer, people in the Lisdowney, Ballyragget and Ballyouskill parishes campaigned strongly to keep Fr Eamonn OGorman as parish priest, contrary to the bishops decision to transfer Fr OGorman to the parish of Galmoy, Johnstown, Urlingford.

Their campaign included the parish group gathering signatures for a petition, and then putting their serious misgivings at the situation in writing to Archbishop of Dublin, Dermot Farrell, and the Papal Nuncio to Ireland, Archbishop Luis Mariano Montemayor.

Fr OGorman himself indicated a desire to remain in the parish, citing his age and health. Correspondence shows that Bishop Coll offered to meet Fr OGorman along with members of the parish group.

Following various correspondence between Bishop Coll and the group on the matter, the parish group said they were deeply disappointed by what they described as a dismissive response. They escalated their concerns by contacting the Archbishop and Papal Nuncio.

Both the Archbishop and Papal Nuncio urged the community to engage with Bishop Coll and said the issue was outside their remit or jurisdiction.

Last week, news of Bishop Colls move north was greeted with tributes from many of his new friends in Ossory.

Amongst them, Bishop Adrian Wilkinson reflected fondly on their warm friendship.

Bishop Niall combines the gifts of a pastor, academic and educator with his commitment to ecumenism. While those of us in Kilkenny will be sorry to see him leave, we wish him Gods blessing as he moves to take up episcopal responsibilities in his native diocese and serve the people of Donegal, Bishop Wilkinson added.

Bishop Coll has expressed his happiness to be returning to his home county.

My deepest feeling at the moment is the gratitude that Im coming home and that Im with my own people, he said.

That said, the people of Ossory were really welcoming and kind to me, and Im very sorry to be leaving them, but thats the instruction that I got, and I thank them from the bottom of my heart for their kindness, for their faith, and for their support.

A mixture of sadness that I have to uproot so soon from Ossory, from Kilkenny, and then gratitude and happiness that I will be back home among my own people.

Speaking from Donegal, he added: It has been, in a sense, interesting that everyone here is speaking with northern accents. Normally in Kilkenny, I have to, at times, slow my speech down so that they can understand my northern accent, but they were very patient with me, and I thank them for that.

A skilled theologian, Bishop Coll has served at third level in both St Patricks College, Carlow, and St Marys University College, Belfast, while he also taught in Pobalscoil na Rosann. As a young priest he served as a curate in Dungloe and he was the parish priest of Tawnawilly having previously served as the parish priest of Drumholm before moving to Kilkenny.

Bishop Coll is expected to take up his new posting in the new year. It is not known when a new Bishop of Ossory will be appointed.
MOSCOW, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- The closing ceremony of the China-Russia Years of Culture has been held at the State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, marking the conclusion of the two-year cultural exchange program.

Officially launched in Beijing in May 2024, the China-Russia Years of Culture featured hundreds of joint cultural events aimed at strengthening cultural exchanges and cooperation between the two countries.

During Monday's closing ceremony, musicians from both countries performed well-known Chinese and Russian musical pieces. An art exhibition was also presented in the gallery to showcase Chinese paintings and calligraphy from the 14th to the 19th centuries.

Under the framework of the China-Russia Years of Culture, art troupes and cultural institutions exchanged visits and deepened collaboration through festivals and forums featuring bilateral cultural cooperation.

Renowned Russian theaters and orchestras also staged performances in China, and an art exhibition featuring works of Russian painter Ilya Repin was held in the National Museum of China in July.

Tatiana Semenova, a Russian scholar specializing in Chinese literature who attended the closing ceremony, said such cultural exchanges helped foster mutual understanding.

"Today, more and more Russians know better about China and appreciate Chinese culture," she said.
COLUMBIA  A Jackson County judge has declared a Missouri law that led to some book bans in schools unconstitutional.

Judge J. Dale Youngs declared that the law, passed in Senate Bill 775 in 2022, is unconstitutional and violated both Missouris due process and freedom of speech clauses. Youngs issued a permanent injunction against the law on Monday, blocking its enforcement.

The law banned books or visual materials containing sexually explicit material from schools. Exceptions to the restriction included artistic or informational content.

School officials who provided explicit materials could have faced a $2,000 fine or up to a year of jail time.

Supporters of the law said it protected students from explicit material, but those who opposed it said it targeted marginalized communities, as many of the books the law would have banned were related to LGBTQ+ topics.

In February 2023, the ACLU of Missouri along with co-counsel at Stinson LLP filed the lawsuit in the Circuit Court of Jackson County on behalf of the Missouri Association of School Librarians and the Missouri Library Association.

This ruling removes the fear of prosecution and allows library professionals to continue doing what they do best, partnering with families to foster a love of learning and literacy, Kimberly Moeller, the 2024 Missouri Library Association past president, said in a news release from the ACLU of Missouri.
Laois Heritage Society's monthly talk takes place tomorrow night, Thursday 20 November, at 8pm in the Midland Park Hotel.

The focus on this month's meeting is on natural heritage with a talk by renowned beekeeper Colm ONeill of the Native Irish Bee Keeping Society and North Kildare Beekeepers.

Admission 5 or free for society members.

Membership available on the night. All welcome.
THE town of Mountmellick came out in force for the launch of the Town Centre First Plan, marking a memorable evening for the entire community.

The new and exciting plan was launched in the surrounds of Mountmelllick Library on Tuesday evening, 18 November and showcased the towns shared commitment to regeneration. Information displays highlighting potential future project ideas attracted attention and are drawn from the Town Centre First Plan.

This plan serves as a comprehensive roadmap for revitalising Mountmellick town centre.

Members of the public and officials were addressed by Laois County Councils cathaoirleach cllr Barry Walsh; director of services for Planning, Regeneration and Economic Development Angela McEvoy as well as Chair of the Mountmellick Town Team Fran Baker. Also present on the evening were Brian Stanley TD, Cllr Paddy Bracken, Cllr Paddy Buggy, Laois County Council Chief Executive Michael Rainey, representatives from SLR Consulting who assisted with the TCF plan and members of the Governments Town Centre First Office.

The evening was an opportunity for the local community to celebrate the launch of the Town Centre First Plan which is an important milestone for the town.

In commending the contribution of all involved, Town Team Chair, Fran Baker said: This plan belongs to the people of Mountmellick. It showcases their ideas, their priorities, and their hopes for the future which we have been privileged to put into writing. The publication of this plan is a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together with a shared vision. From the initial community wide survey and business survey that shaped the plans priorities to the extensive consultation process that gathered valuable feedback on proposed projects, the communitys voice has been central every step of the way. Denise Rainey, Town Regeneration Officer at Laois County Council, said:

"Whether you are a business owner, a community leader, or a resident, your voice matters. The town team has an open invitation to new volunteers to join us in shaping the next chapter of the towns regeneration. As projects develop, we will need more members to help out. If you would like to get involved, please get in touch. Mountmellick Town Team, and Laois County Councils Regeneration Section, would like to sincerely thank everyone who participated in the consultations, surveys, and workshops, and all who engaged with the plan throughout the past year. The Mountmellick Town Centre First Plan sets out a strategic vision to make Mountmellick a vibrant, accessible, and sustainable town for residents, businesses, and visitors.

Work on the draft plan began in late 2024 and involved extensive community consultation, including public information evenings, surveys, online engagement, and workshops. The plan reflects the priorities and aspirations of the people of Mountmellick.

The plan will be on public display in the offices of the Mountmellick Development Association, Mountmellick Library, the offices of Laois County Council Portlaoise and online at www.laois.ie.

The Mountmellick Town Centre First Plan forms part of the Government of Irelands Town Centre First Policy and Our Rural Future Strategy.
Ottoline Spearman

The Chief Inspector of Prisons has described the complaints procedure for prisoners as "manifestly unfit for purpose", saying that the state of the system has led to a reduction in the number of complaints.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Mark Kelly described how the system is failing to work, with significant delays in investigating complaints and inefficient investigations.

"It's absolutely clear that the majority of prisoners have no confidence whatsoever in the complaint system. It is manifestly unfit for purpose. And my predecessors and I have been saying this for very many years now," he said.

Only 50 per cent of prisoners surveyed by the Office for the Inspector of Prisons (OIP) across four prisons in 2024 stated that they would feel safe to make a complaint, while only 18 per cent believed the complaints system works well.

The number of Category A complaint notifications - the most serious complaints alleging assault or discrimination - has fallen by 28 per cent since 2021.

Mr Kelly thinks that this can be attributed to prisoners' lack of confidence in the complaints system.

"As the system currently operates, even if an investigator reaches the conclusion that a complaint is well-founded, that conclusion then goes to the governor of the prison, and the governor can overrule that finding.

"Prisoners know this. In consequence, the number of complaints are continuing to fall and the confidence of prisoners in the system is minimal."

Saoirse Brady, executive director of the Irish Penal Reform Trust, said prisoners may be deterred from making a complaint due to fear of reprisal, or because "they feel it is a waste of their time as they wont be taken seriously and nothing will change".

She also described how the anonymity of the complaints system was failing, as complaints boxes are often situated in plain sight of other prisoners and prison staff, which makes it difficult to have confidence in the anonymity of a complaint.

"The fact that people in prison are making fewer complaints and not challenging these deplorable conditions tells its own story about how dysfunctional the current system is and the lack of confidence it engenders.

"The lack of a functional complaints system is a significant gap in the accountability regime for prisons in Ireland," she said.

There are also signs of systemic issues with the complaints system. Frequent delays in processing complaints mean that witnesses have often left prison before the complaint is processed.

Only 9 per cent of complaints' investigation reports were finalised within the statutory 3-month timeframe.

Furthermore, of the 55 complaints received in 2024, the OIP was only notified of the appointment of independent investigators to 19 of these complaints.

There was also a large backlog in the completion of complaints, with only 20 per cent of full investigation reports received by the OIP relating to complaints in 2024.

Ms Brady said that these delays are "simply not good enough".

"In a prison setting, any delay in resolving complaints can, at a minimum, exacerbate tensions or, at the more extreme end of the scale, result in actual harm to individuals if serious issues are not addressed as soon as possible."

Mr Kelly also expressed concern at the delays in appointing investigators, even for "very serious allegations of assault", as well as investigations carried out that are "often not efficient".

The OIP is working with the Irish Prison Service and the Office of the Ombudsman on models for a new and better complaints system - something Ms Brady says has been promised since 2016.

The objective for the new system is for all complainants to be allowed to appeal to the Ombudsman, which would give a level of independence to the investigation of complaints, which, accordingly to Mr Kelly, is "completely absent at the moment".

Ms Brady said: "The Ombudsman should be empowered to receive individual complaints and have the power to adjudicate on the matter raised, and to make binding recommendations for improvement, which should be addressed and implemented."

A spokesperson for the Irish Prison Service said: "The Irish Prison Service has recently updated the prisoner complaint form to make it more user-friendly and, during 2024, finalised useful information for prisoners to circulate on the prisoner information TV channel to further develop interest and engagement with the service.

"The Department of Justice is currently reviewing and updating the rules for prisoner complaints to improve and enhance the current complaints process and to increase the investigative capacity for serious complaints.

"All prisoners have the right to make a complaint at any time, and all complaints are treated with the utmost seriousness."
Louisiana Tech Construction Engineering Technology (CET) students were awarded a $11,500 grant from the North American Society for Trenchless Technology to attend the 2026 No-Dig Show in Palm Springs, California.

Mr. Reginald Jeter, program chair of CET, congratulated the student officers of Louisiana Techs joint Associated General Contractors (AGC)/NASTT Student Chapter for their leadership and initiative in securing this funding.

Were incredibly proud of our chapter officers: President Jackson McKinney, Vice President Colby Staffier, Treasurer Jacob Murray, Secretary Kate Hudson, and Philanthropy Chair Ethan Robertson for their hard work and commitment to advancing student engagement in the trenchless technology industry, Jeter said.

NASTTs Student Chapter Grant Program supports activities that build education, skills, and industry connections through job site visits, training, and partnerships with trenchless technology firms. This year brought a record number of funding requests that exceeded the budget by more than $50,000, so reviewers evaluated proposals, travel costs, past attendance, and student conduct carefully. Louisiana Techs strong history and student professionalism helped secure this years award, which will support student participation in the 2026 No-Dig Show, an event that brings together industry leaders, researchers, and students from across North America to explore the latest innovations in underground infrastructure and pipeline systems.

This funding helps our students gain hands-on exposure to the latest innovations driving the future of underground infrastructure, said Dr. John Matthews, professor of Civil Engineering and director of Louisiana Techs Trenchless Technology Center. Our students are not only learning from leading professionals in the field but are also contributing to the next generation of research and innovation in trenchless technology.

About Louisiana Techs College of Engineering and Science

The College of Engineering and Science at Louisiana Tech University integrates engineering and scientific research with education to prepare students to solve complex, real-world problems. The college is nationally recognized for its collaborative, interdisciplinary approach and commitment to innovation in engineering, science, and technology.
Mexican actress Kate del Castillo has once again addressed her 2015 encounter with the infamous cartel leader Joaquin "El Chapo" Guzman, stating that she does not regret the meeting and emphasizing that it was a decision she made voluntarily.

Last month marked 10 years since the highly publicized rendezvous between del Castillo and Guzman in the Sierra Sinaloense. During a recent media appearance, the 53-year-old actress reflected on the consequences of that encounter: "I feel like it was yesterday, and I still have consequences and I will have them for the rest of my life," she said.

A reporter remarked that it had been a decade since her meeting with "Mr. Joaquin Guzman" and asked how her thoughts on it had evolved in the last ten years. Del Castillo responded that she "It was a decision that I made ... and I don't regret it, I don't regret it at all."

Though she added that in the aftermath, she and her circle paid a price, saying, "What followed, betrayals and everything you already know, was no longer in my hands and that was terrible and there were consequences that my family, my friends and I paid for."

Later on, del Castillo noted she is currently in Mexico promoting a short film in which she participates, and described herself as "stronger than ever" and "more protected than ever."

Her path toward El Chapo began publicly in January 2012. She posted a tweet stating: "Today I believe more in El Chapo Guzman than in the governments that hide painful truths".

Shortly thereafter, Guzman, already a fan and attracted to her, reached out to Del Castillo. They proposed she create a film or series based on his life story. In June 2015, she met with Guzman's lawyers in Mexico City, insisting that she would not take any money from him for the project. The meeting between them at a hideout took place on or around October 2-3, 2015.

Del Castillo brought American actor Sean Penn into the scenario to bring a major Hollywood name to the project, boosting its credibility. According to several sources, Penn met with Del Castillo (and two producers), and, through her contacts, a secret meeting with El Chapo was arranged.

In January 2016, Penn published an article in Rolling Stone titled "El Chapo Speaks," which recounted his clandestine meeting with Guzman while he was a fugitive. Del Castillo maintains that she did not know Penn's motive was journalism/interview rather than the film project she believed she was facilitating. "I was taken aback," she said.

She later accused Penn of using her to gain access and not protecting her, saying, "he used me as bait, and then he never protected me. And risked my life and my parents' life and my sister's life and everybody surrounding me."

Once the article appeared and El Chapo was arrested again in January of 2016, Mexican authorities flagged Del Castillo and Penn for investigation. The government claimed their contact helped pinpoint Guzman's hideout. For Del Castillo, the consequences were substantial. In a 2019 interview, she said, "For me it's very important because I need to tell my truth." She described the period as almost career-ending.

In the investigation, Mexican authorities looked into whether Del Castillo accepted funds or collaborated with the cartel. Ultimately, in February 2017, the investigation against her was closed with no charges. The official report concluded that while she sought a film project, there was no evidence she was part of Guzman's criminal organization.

Originally published on Latin Times
20 alleged operatives of the Jalisco Cartel were arrested in Spain, with authorities claiming they smuggled "large shipments of cocaine and methamphetamine" from South America.

CBS News noted that the drugs would then be distributed in Spain and other European countries. The investigation began earlier this year after police detected drugs being smuggled inside heavy machinery. The latest operation resulted in a seizure of 1.8 tons of cocaine, as well as cash, crypto, weapons and vehicles.

It is the latest case illustrating the growing presence of Mexican cartels in Europe. In September, two Mexican men linked to the Sinaloa Cartel were detained in a meth lab in Poland.

Infobae detailed that the men were spotted at a place that had over 300 liters of the drug, as well as 3 tons of chemical precursors used to produce more.

In late July, the Pentagon warned that cartels have been spotted in Africa, using coastal regions and trade corridors to strengthen their global position.

Infobae noted that the threat has already been noted by AFRICOM, with lieutenant general John W. Brennan Jr. saying Angola and Namibia are among the countries impacted the most.

Infobae detailed earlier in July that the Jalisco and Sinaloa cartels have set up labs to manufacture drugs, especially methamphetamine, and are also training "cooks" to work in them.

Such facilities have been discovered in countries like France, Belgium, Spain and the Netherlands, as well as Poland.

Originally published on Latin Times
Miami - With Miss Universe 2025 a day away and Thailand grabing for the global spotlight, the Telemundo hosting team is already living the chaos, glamour and adrenaline that comes with the world's most-watched beauty pageant. Danilo Carrera and Jacqueline Bracamontes return as the main hosts, joined this year by correspondents Carlos Adyan and Jessica Carrillo, who are covering rehearsals, backstage moments and meet-the-delegates content from the ground.

Before boarding their flights, all four admitted in interviews with The Latin Times and ENSTARZ that preparations feel like competing themselves.

Bracamontes burst out laughing when asked if she had packed. "If I were going on vacation, I'd pack the day of the trip. But if I'm going to Miss Universe, I have to plan my suitcase with time," she said while describing two open suitcases full of dresses, shoes and filming accessories in her Miami home. "My husband is about to kill me because of the mess. But as a woman, and as a mother of five, I have to be prepared."

Carrera joked he packed differently: "I haven't done anything except leave out the steamer. If something is missing, I'll buy it over there," he said, smiling as Bracamontes shook her head.

Carrillo and Adyan echoed that sentiment when speaking about the long travel schedule. "From here to Qatar it's 16 hours, then a layover, then six and a half more. It's basically a full day," Carrillo explained. "But we're used to working under any circumstances." Adyan added: "We cannot adapt to Thailand time because we'll be broadcasting on U.S. hours. So when Thailand sleeps, we'll be live. It's going to be a challenge, but we're ready."

Fashion and culture

Fashion is another battle behind the glamour. Carrera teased that he plans to break away from his usual classic look. "I'm going exotic this year," he confessed, hinting at bold Asian-inspired tailoring. Bracamontes raised an eyebrow and laughed: "Now I'm stressed. I always coordinate with him, but this time he's scaring me."

Jessica Carrillo confessed she hadn't finalized her look either. "I only tried on one dress," she said. "But my stylist travels with me, so the dress will be chosen in Thailand."

Beyond outfits and jet lag, fans worldwide want to know one thing:

who are the favorites?

Bracamontes refused to declare an early winner but explained why in-person impressions matter. "On social media you see one thing, but when you see them walk live, when you talk to them, everything can change," she said. "Ask me again after preliminaries." Still, she acknowledged early picks: "Mexico, Yamilex, Miss Universe Latina, and maybe Thailand."

Carlos Adyan agreed the competition is unpredictable and reminded fans that scoring involves multiple stages. "Nobody has an advantage," he said. "Preliminary, national costume, the private interview and final night. Those are the four pillars." While careful not to crown anyone early, he admitted, "Puerto Rico is always strong. A contestant with Dominican roots impressed me. And Venezuela, of course."

Both conversations also touched on one of this year's most viral discussions: the number of contestants born or crowned in the United States.

Carrera defended the shift. "We live in a global world," he said. "Sometimes life takes you to another country, but your roots, your heart, belong to where you were born or where your family comes from."

Adyan added: "The only rule is that contestants must have roots in the country they represent. If a girl was born here but feels Ecuadorian, Puerto Rican or Cuban, who are we to say she's not?"

Despite controversies surrounding the organization in recent months, the hosts remain clear about the purpose of the pageant. "This is not just one night," Bracamontes said. "The winner spends the next 364 days working, traveling, advocating and changing lives. That's what matters."

For now, the pressure builds, the outfits remain undecided and the world waits. As Carrera laughed while securing his outfits: "We are going to have fun. Thailand is ready. The question is, are the fans ready?"

Miss Universe 2025 airs Thursday, November 20, on Telemundo.

Originally published on Latin Times
Tens of migrants were rescued from a stash house in Juarez, near the U.S.-Mexico border, after one of them managed to sneak out and call for help.

Overall, 23 migrants who were being held for ransom were rescued, while seven smugglers were arrested. The migrants were being held in two separate houses. Six people were rescued in the first one, and 17 in the second one.

The second house was located about a mile from the Rio Grande. Officers noticed a suspicious vehicle and sought to question the driver, who proceeded to point a gun at officers and tried to flee. The person was then arrested, with officers finding two rifles, handguns and over$16,000 in cash.

Several such incidents routinely take place in the area and on both sides of the border, In June, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested over a dozen migrants following a raid in a stash house in Mercedes, Texas.

The operation took place following an anonymous tip. After officials went to the property, its owner said there were 16 people inside the home. All were taken into custody, while a separate person was questioned for his potential role in human smuggling.

Also in June, three men were indicted for their role in the smuggling of dozens of migrants in a mobile home in New Mexicoearlier this year.

The incident unfolded after agencies received information that migrants were inside a home in a small town in New Mexico just north of El Paso.

After reaching the home, the agents saw a man who exited the house and approached him. He identified himself as Guatemalan and said he did not have documents to be in the country.

In May, two Texans pleaded guilty to charging thousands of dollars to smuggle migrants into the U.S. through Laredo.

The men in question, Mac Quese Howard and De Richardson Miller, admitted to conspiring to transport migrants through Laredo, in South Texas, U.S. Attorney Nicholas Ganjei said, according to Border Report.

The men were caught after attempting to circumvent a Border Patrol checkpoint near Laredo. After being stopped for the traffic violation, authorities found three migrants hidden in the back seat of the car.

Originally published on Latin Times
Pope Leo criticized the United States' approach to immigration enforcement, saying migrants are being treated in an "extremely disrespectful way" and urging Catholics to take seriously a statement issued last week by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops condemning mass deportations and the climate of fear surrounding immigration raids.

Speaking to reporters outside the papal residence in Castel Gandolfo, the Chicago-born pontiff said the bishops' statement was "very important," adding that migrants should be "treated humanely, treated with the dignity that they have."

He acknowledged that "every country has a right to determine who and how and when people enter," but said many immigrants "living good lives" for decades have been subjected to treatment that he described as "extremely disrespectful," as The Guardian reports.

Leo said that the United States has legal tools to address immigration violations and that these should be used in a way that respects human dignity. "There are courts; there's a system of justice," he said.

The comments build on earlier critiques by the Pope of immigration enforcement in the Trump Administration. On November 5, he called for "deep reflection" in the United States about the treatment of migrants held in detention, saying that "many people who have lived for years and years and years, never causing problems, have been deeply affected by what is going on right now."

He emphasized that the "spiritual rights of people who have been detained should also be considered" and urged authorities to allow pastoral workers access to detainees, noting that many are separated from their families and uncertain of their legal situation.

Back in early October, Pope Leo also questioned whether U.S. immigration policies were consistent with Catholic teaching, asking: "someone who says I am against abortion but I am in agreement with the inhuman treatment of immigrants in the United States, I don't know if that's pro-life." The White House later rejected his characterization, saying it enforced immigration laws "in the most humane way possible."

The pope's remarks come amid broader geopolitical tensions involving the United States, including military operations against suspected drug traffickers off Venezuela. Asked about the strikes, Leo said the actions were "increasing tension" and reiterated that "the thing is to seek dialogue."

On Tuesday, after addressing immigration, Leo also released a video message to bishops participating in the Cop30 climate summit in Brazil, warning that "creation is crying out in floods, droughts, storms and relentless heat" and urged political leaders to act with "true leadership," saying the Paris Agreement remains the "strongest tool for protecting people and the planet."

Originally published on Latin Times
Anne Gerr and Lisa Yelagin reopened their Pie+Tart bakery in November 2025 at 349 Northampton St. after opening in October 2018 at 444 Northampton St., photographed here. Lehighvalleylive.com/The Express-Times File Photo

The following is a roundup of recent Lehigh Valley regional retail and business news. Click each headline for the original source and additional information.

Pie+Tart, which opened in Easton in October 2018 at 444 Northampton St., reopened earlier this month in a larger cafe space a block away at 349 Northampton St. We are overwhelmed by the joy everyone who came to the new shop shared with us, and grateful far beyond words for everyones support and patience. We are, as ever, grateful for everyones patience and so excited to welcome everyone back, owners Anne Gerr and Lisa Yelagin posted to Facebook.

By Kurt Bresswein

Mama Bs Resale Boutique, owned by Saquon Barkleys mother Tonya Johnson, has relocated from Bethlehem to downtown Allentown. The boutiques new location is at 107 N. Seventh St. in Unit 110, and it celebrated its grand reopening on Saturday, Nov. 15. The store, personally run by Johnson, offers a variety of resale items including clothing, shoes, and accessories for men, women, and children.

From WFMZ-TV 69

The GEMeral Store reopened Nov. 8 in a new Bethlehem location at 216 W. Broad St., following a fire that closed owner Ted Chiaparass original location at 707 N. New St. The fire July 6 struck just eight days after the original spot opened June 28. Come be part of our homecoming celebration, Chiaparas, who grew up blocks away on East Goepp Street, posted to Facebook. Were grateful for all of your support!

By Kurt Bresswein

The Bethlehem Fraternal Order of Police reached an agreement to purchase Adagio Seafood Restaurant, 530 Pembroke Road in the city, and transform it into a wellness center and social club exclusively for the citys officers. Bethlehems zoning hearing board voted last month to approve the FOPs members-only-club plan. Lucy Lennon of Main Street Real Estate Group, who represented both the FOP and Adagio owner Anthony Spagnola, said the restaurant will close in January after honoring previously scheduled events.

From The Morning Call

A local winery that pioneered cool-climate grape growing in Pennsylvania will mark its 30th anniversary Saturday, Nov. 22, with a ribbon cutting hosted by the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corp. Galen Glen Winery & Vineyard, 255 Winter Mountain Drive in Andreas, will celebrate the milestone from noon to 2 p.m. The free public event will recognize the contributions of founder Galen Troxells family to the regional wine industry and local economy.

From the Greater Lehigh Valley Chamber of Commerce

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of parts of this story, which was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com staff. Supervising reporter Kurt Bresswein contributed to this report. Reach him at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
Representatives and partners of the United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley, Lehigh Valley Community Foundation and Community Action Lehigh Valley are photographed Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, at Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania, 6969 Silver Crest Road in East Allen Township, during a news conference held to detail how $600,000 donated to a Critical Support Fund launched in October are addressing increased community needs. Courtesy photo | For lehighvalleylive.com

More than 75 donors have contributed over $600,000 to a regional emergency fund designed to help families facing rising food insecurity, organizers announced Tuesday.

United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation launched the Critical Support Fund on Oct. 30 to address growing needs for food and emergency services.

The donations have already been used to purchase bulk food orders and support more than 100 food pantries across Carbon, Lehigh, Northampton and Monroe counties.

When people in our community need help, the Greater Lehigh Valley shows up, said Marci Lesko, president and chief executive officer of United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley. Your resources have been put into action immediately to get food on pantry shelves and kitchen tables all across Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon and even Monroe counties.

The organizations held a news conference Tuesday with Community Action Lehigh Valley and Second Harvest Food Bank of the Lehigh Valley and Northeastern Pennsylvania to detail how the funds are being used.

Bulk orders of produce, dry goods, rice, beans and other shelf-stable items have been placed through Second Harvest Food Bank for distribution. Additional orders of beef, turkey and chicken have been secured through local farmers and regional suppliers to meet the need for proteins.

Dawn Godshall, chief executive officer of Community Action Lehigh Valley, said families across the region are experiencing increased food insecurity due to reductions in SNAP benefits and other emergency issues.

This collaborative effort ensures that we can respond swiftly and compassionately, Godshall said. Together, we are providing a lifeline for our neighbors and reaffirming our shared commitment to a community where everyone has access to the basic resources they need to thrive.

Partners are coordinating efforts through pantry network meetings with Second Harvest, connecting volunteer needs through the Volunteer Center of the Lehigh Valley and providing training sessions with Valley Health Partners to help pantry staff support residents who receive SNAP benefits.

Erika Riddle Petrozelli, president and CEO of the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation, said the fund demonstrates regional collaboration.

Thanks to the remarkable generosity of our donors and the dedication of our food provider network, the Critical Support Fund is delivering rapid relief to families across the region, Petrozelli said.

The fund was created to meet immediate needs, beginning with food, while remaining flexible to provide other emergency and crisis supports as they arise. Future allocations may include baby and mother essentials, energy assistance, emergency shelter and winter warming stations.

For more information about the Critical Support Fund, contact Erin Connelly at United Way at erinco@unitedwayglv.org or Erika Riddle Petrozelli at erika@lvcfoundation.org at the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation.

Generative AI was used to draft this story based on information provided by United Way of the Greater Lehigh Valley and the Lehigh Valley Community Foundation. It was reviewed and edited by lehighvalleylive.com.
Businesses across Laois have been invited to take part in a workshop on all things sustainability.

The CUBE Low Carbon Centre of Excellence in Portlaoise are hosting the event which will be led by Antaris Consulting, Ireland's leading independent sustainability consultancy, in partnership with Laois County Council's Regenerative Tourism Activator.

As research has shown that more and more young people favour businesses that prioritise sustainability and positive environmental practices, local businesses are encouraged to get involved and learn more about how they can become more sustainable.

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The workshop is targeted for those in hospitality, tourism and retail. From the event, people will learn how to develop their own sustainability plan relevant to their business, craft a powerful statement for their website, learn how to communicate their plan with customers, and speak in confidence about their sustainability credentials.

Businesses will also learn more about the importance of drafting a sustainability plan and how it can benefit their business and even profit margins.

The workshop will take place at The CUBE in Portlaoise on Monday, November 24. Registration will begin at 9.30am and the workshop will run from 10am to 1pm.

If you're interested in taking part, you must book your spot by emailing the Regenerative Tourism Activator, Regina Dunne, at rdunne@laoiscoco.ie or call 0578664016.

To find out more about the event or book your place, see here.

Funded by the Local Democracy Reporting Scheme
A woman who stole nearly 15,000 in cash from her employers told gardai that two masked men told her they would hurt her brother if she didn't carry out the theft, a court has heard.



On the morning of February 10, 2024, Carla Keegan (28) took the cash from the safe of the Paddy Power bookmakers in Clondalkin in west Dublin and put it in a plastic shopping bag. She walked out of the shop and left the cash at an undisclosed drop off point before going back to work in the shop.



Later that day Keegan contacted the shop's security manager and told him what she had done. She told him that two masked men had approached her on two occasions and told her that her home was under surveillance.

She said she believed the men and felt that her family were in danger. She said one of the men handed her a note making reference to her brother who was in custody in Portlaoise Prison and saying they would be able to get to him easily.

She attended by appointment to gardai and gave a version of her movements after leaving the shop which was borne out by CCTV footage.

READ NEXT: New equipment for Laois Hospice thanks to generous donations from the public



The location of the bag drop was not caught on camera but the court heard that one note had instructed her to drop the bag behind the wall at the entrance to a nearby park and to then walk slowly back to work.



The note also stated that your home will not be interrupted as long as you do what is instructed.

Keegan of Deansrath Avenue, Clondalkin, Dublin 22 pleaded guilty to theft of 14,800.



The court heard that when questioned Keegan told gardai that she was first approached in her home by a man wearing a black medical mask who knew her name. She said he handed her a note with instructions about co-operating with a robbery on February 6th.



She told gardai she thought it was some sort of a joke. A robbery never took place on that day.

Four days later another man wearing a mask approached her as she was walking home and this man made threats about getting to her brother.



She said she was shocked and believed this was a realistic threat to harm her brother. She showed gardai screenshots of instructions she received from the two men.



Judge Martin Nolan said Keegans claim that her family were threatened had some degree of credibility.



He accepted that she had no record of conviction, has an otherwise pro-social background and made admissions. He said he didnt expect Keegan to re-offend in the future.



Some parties spotted an opportunity, Judge Nolan said before he added that Keegan was coerced.



She did not have the back bone or fortitude not to get involved; she acquiesced, Judge Nolan said. Judge Nolan imposed a three year sentence which he suspended in full.



You expect adults to have backbone and courage, the judge said.
Abbeyleixs Preston House and the Palace Bar in Dublin, were a buzz with banter, lilting with laughter, sizzling with songs and stories and poets in motion for two wonderful evenings offered up to the power of words, and the launch of a new poetry collection, Stoked.

The poems, a debut collection by John Whelan writing under his penname, Johnny Renko were only half the story as he was joined by The Power of Words Open Mic family in Abbeyleix for a memorable evening of shared storytelling, poignant prose and powerful poems, with songs and tunes for good measure. READ MORE BELOW. CLICK 'NEXT' FOR MORE IMAGES

Among those contributing in the wonderful setting of Preston House were Arthur Broomfield, Paula Byrne, Mark Clancy, Mairead Connell, Siobhan Hoy, Johnny Thompson, Noelle OConnell, Shea McCaughley, Mick Morrissey, John Purcell and Cathal Kelly.

Curating matters with typical aplomb and good humour was Amanda Kelly, the founder and driving force behind the increasingly popular and highly regarded Power of Words Events.

Setting the stage for Whelans alter ego Johnny Renko to take the floor, in the style of his mischievous poetic influences Paul Durcan and John Cooper, Amanda delivered high praise indeed.

It is hard to believe that this is Johns first venture into poetry as it seems like he has arrived, as a fully formed accomplished poet. To me, it feels like John is truly in his element as a poet. The incredible image of Irish surfer, Fergal Smith, taken by photographer, Mickey

Smith, used on the cover of Stoked is so fitting, as each poem has us ride the wave of Johns imagination. Every page is filled with high energy movement, fully alive characters, and vivid imagery evoking laughter, tears, and something to think deeply about.

The playfulness of Johns writing is perfectly balanced with a depth of natural empathy and profound emotion.

It was a roller-coaster reading by Whelan as he delved into an ode to the joys of surfing, a tribute to the back breaking work of turf cutting families, a love of the landscape, our relationship with mans best friend, the loss of loved ones, the uplifting power of a smile and a diverse range of devilment around a broad range of other topics.

There was a big bualadh bos too for Cormac ODulachain who translated two of the poems and delivered powerful and passionate versions of them as Gaeilge.

It was a similar lively affair in The Palace Bar on Fleet Street for a further reading and Dublin launch event. This time the attendees were joined by enthusiastic tourists at the popular city tavern steeped in literary tradition.

Stoked is now available from All Books in Lyster Square, Portlaoise and online from www.thelastbeekeeper.ie

If all this has whetted your appetite, the next Power of Words Open Mic event takes place in Mooneys Pub, Abbeyleix on Friday, December 5 from 7pm.

A Creative Writing Retreat will be hosted in Preston House with author Niamh Boyce on the weekend of February 20. A further such retreat will be held there with author John McKenna, midweek from May 11 to 13, 2026. Both events have residential and non- residential options. Further details and updates available from www.powerofwords.ie or on Power of Words social media platforms.
A new book by Dr Declan Monaghan about The Irish National Stud in Co Kildare was launched by Senator Fiona O'Loughlin in Maynooth University.



The Irish National Stud, 1900-2025: Horses, Politics and Elitism examines the history of a pioneering Thoroughbred horse breeding operation.

By incorporating and integrating a diverse array of primary sources from various repositories and supplementing them with contemporary and secondary materials, the main narrative reveals the intricate details of Irelands complex relationship with Britain through sport and politics.

The publication adopts a chronological, thematic approach, beginning at the turn of the nineteenth century and tracing the development of the Stud through the twentieth century and into the twenty-first century.



This book encompasses the political, cultural, and social dimensions of horse breeding/racing and the role of what would become the Irish National Stud.

The first period of its history covers the establishment of Tully Stud in Kildare under Colonel William Hall-Walker in 1900.

The second period, from 1916 to 1944, begins with Hall-Walker gifting Tully Stud to the British government, which then rebranded it as the National Stud.

This coincided with the Irish independence struggle and the formation of the new Irish Free State, leading to over two decades of deadlock over which governmentIrish or Britishlegally owned the Stud.

The third period saw the progression of the new Irish National Stud, from its creation in 1944 to the present day, offering a comparison with the British National Stud and providing a thorough analysis of the influence of elite Thoroughbred breeders on the Irish National Stud and the broader industry in both Ireland and Great Britain.

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Hoodwink Theatre Productions swept the stage in Carrigallen at the weekend, delivering a powerful performance of Wildling that not only brought audiences to their feet but secured the group a coveted place in the All-Ireland One Act Drama Finals. The Cavan-based company, which includes strong Carrigallen connections, earned multiple awards at the Corn Mill Theatres 21st Annual One Act Drama Festival, marking one of their most successful outings to date.

At the centre of this triumph was Carrigallens own Elizabeth Doonan, whose commanding portrayal of Fiadh Connolly earned her the title of Best Actress (Confined). Her performance was a major factor in Hoodwinks surge to the top of the festival rankings, reinforcing the groups reputation for high-calibre, emotionally driven theatre.

But the weekend belonged equally  and unmistakably  to Hoodwink as a unit: their direction, staging, ensemble work and technical craft came together in a production that festival adjudicator Evelyn OSullivan described as one of those rare pieces where everything lands exactly as it should.

Hoodwink take centre stage

From the moment the lights rose on Wildling, it was clear Hoodwink had brought something special to the Corn Mill stage. The set  designed by playwright and cast member Elaine Birkett  evoked a haunting, moonlit lakeshore, its simplicity allowing the emotional weight of the story to dominate. The productions atmosphere was so striking it carried the group to a win for Best Stage Craft, awarded to the technical team of Jeff Keogh, Mark McDermott and Seamus Farrell.

Festival director Philip McIntyre reserved particular praise for Hoodwinks achievement, noting not just their artistic excellence but the pride they brought to the region.

Hoodwinks performance was something truly special, McIntyre said. To see a group with such strong local roots  and led by actors from this community  now heading to the All-Ireland is a proud moment for Carrigallen and for the Corn Mill Theatre.

McIntyre emphasised that Hoodwinks success reflects years of commitment from both the group and the venue.

Its fantastic to see our region represented at this level, he added. They earned every bit of it.

The performance that led the way

While Wildling is very much an ensemble piece, the emotional heartbeat of the production came from Doonans interpretation of Fiadh Connolly  a woman drawn back to the memories and unresolved grief of 1981 Ireland.

Adjudicator OSullivan, who spent the weekend offering detailed insights to each group, singled out Doonan for her nuanced portrayal.

Elizabeth delivered a performance of remarkable depth, OSullivan said. It was controlled, truthful and beautifully observed  the kind of work that stays with an audience long after the lights go down.

But OSullivan was equally effusive about the group as a whole.

Direction, performance, staging  it all came together beautifully, she said. Hoodwinks work represents the very best of what the one act circuit can produce.

Audience members agreed. One festival-goer described the show as seamless, adding, You werent watching a group performing a play  you were watching a living moment unfold.

The play behind the success

Written by Elaine Birkett, Wildling centres on Fiadhs return to a place of emotional significance. While walking her dog one evening, Birkett reportedly pictured the lake at dusk and felt a story unfolding. That instinct became the foundation for a script that weaves past and present, realism and memory, tenderness and tension.

Birkett not only wrote the play but also produced it, designed the set, and stepped into the role of the social worker  a demanding combination that showcases her creative versatility.

Supporting performances from Sharon ONeill, Oisin Hourican, Padraig Reilly and Birkett herself gave the production its layered texture, while the award-winning technical team created the sound, lighting and staging that transported audiences into Fiadhs world.

A festival rooted in tradition and community pride

Now in its 21st year, the Corn Mill Theatres One Act Drama Festival remains a flagship event in the local arts calendar. Over three nights, groups from across Ireland gathered in Carrigallen, creating a vibrant atmosphere of competition, camaraderie and shared love of theatre.

Locals from Carrigallen, Killeshandra, Aughavas and surrounding areas filled the foyer nightly, swapping predictions, discussing performances and celebrating the homegrown talent on display.

During his opening remarks, McIntyre thanked the dozens of volunteers who make the festival possible each year.

The theatre doesnt run on bricks and mortar, he said. It runs on people  and we are lucky to have some of the best.

Individual Award Winners

Hoodwink were the dominant winners of the night, taking multiple top honours:

Best Actress (Confined)

Elizabeth Doonan as Fiadh Connolly  Wildling, Hoodwink Theatre Productions

Best Stage Craft  Sean Donnelly Perpetual Trophy

Jeff Keogh, Mark McDermott & Seamus Farrell  Hoodwink Theatre Productions

Other awards included:

Adjudicators Award  Aidan Harte Perpetual Trophy

Balally Players  The Gun Shot moment of theatre

Best Actor (Confined)

Kevin OLeary as Tony  Daddys Gone a Hunting, Carraig na bhFear ADG (Cork)

Best Actor (Open)

Daniel ORegan as Ray  Lonestar, Gunpowder Productions (Cork)

Best Actress (Open)

Claire Hilary as Bridget  Bogboy, Balally Players (Dublin)

Heading to the All-Ireland

With festival ribbons in hand and glowing reviews behind them, Hoodwink Theatre Productions now move forward to the All-Ireland One Act Finals, representing both Cavan and Carrigallen with pride.

For the group, its a chance to showcase their work on the biggest amateur theatre stage in the country. For Carrigallen, its a moment of celebration  proof once again that rural communities produce world-class talent when given the space, support and stage to shine.

As the Corn Mill audience rose to applaud Hoodwink on Sunday night, one thing was clear: this is not just a win for the group. It is a victory for local theatre, for community creativity, and for the enduring spirit of storytelling that thrives in places like Carrigallen.

And for Elizabeth Doonan  and the entire Hoodwink team  the journey is only beginning.

READ NEXT: Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan appointed Minister of State as part of Cabinet reshuffle
Significant cabinet changes took place on November 18 following the departure of Paschal Donohoe from his role as Minister for Finance to take up a new position at the World Bank.

In the wake of this move, several TDs were assigned new responsibilities, including SligoLeitrim TD Frank Feighan, who has been appointed Minister of State at the Department of Public Expenditure as part of the cabinet reshuffle.

Minister Feighan previously served as Fine Gaels Spokesperson on Northern Ireland and UK Relations.

He has expressed his great honour at returning as a Minister of State. I was honoured to accept this important portfolio and return as a Minister of State role within the coalition Government.

I now look forward to driving the Programme for Government under the headings of public procurement, digitalisation and eGovernment.

READ NEXT: Sligo-Leitrim TD Frank Feighan appointed Minister of State as part of Cabinet reshuffle

In particular, I look forward to achieving better public services, which is the public sectors commitment to working together to provide inclusive, high-quality and integrated services that meet peoples needs and improve their lives, said Minister Feighan.

He last served as a Minister of State from 2020 to 2022, when he held responsibility for Public Health, Well Being and the National Drugs Strategy.

I look forward to implementing a number of key elements on the Programme for Government which include ensuring the integration of digital services across Government departments and the establishment of a single digital unit to enhance the delivery of public services online.

It is vital to support the work of the Irish Government Economic and Evaluation Service (IGEES) to provide critical economic and value-for-money analysis, he added.

I am proud to represent the people of Sligo, Leitrim and South Donegal, I received an enhanced mandate back in 2024 to continue to deliver for the people of this region.

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I will continue to do that with focus and energy, as a Minister in Government and in the department of public expenditure I will continue to highlight the much-needed infrastructural improvements for the North West region and hopefully I can do more to deliver those ambitions for the region, concluded Minister Feighan.
NANJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Italian industrial automation company Univer Group on Tuesday signed a 300-million-yuan (about 42 million U.S. dollars) investment agreement with Taicang City, east China's Jiangsu Province, to establish its China headquarters.

The project will involve R&D as well as the production of pneumatic components and clamping cylinders. It is expected to generate an annual output value exceeding 500 million yuan.

Liu Long, general manager of Univer China, said that Taicang boasts a large agglomeration of foreign investment and has comprehensive supply chains. "We will exchange and cooperate with local enterprises to promote the development of the industrial automation industry," he noted.

Taicang neighbors Shanghai and is a key port hub along the Yangtze River. It is home to over 1,600 foreign-invested enterprises, which account for 50 percent of the city's industrial output and 60 percent of its trade volume.

Founded in 1971 and headquartered in Milan, Univer is one of Italy's key producers of industrial automation equipment. Its pneumatic products are used in the automobile, engineering machinery, new energy and medical device industries, among others.
Members of the womens advocacy group, Mothers of Tomorrow, with their president, Madam Janet Koffa (middle).
A LIMERICK man was sentenced to eight months imprisonment after he admitted smashing a womans car window and stealing her handbag and iPhone while she was parked at a local Tipperary service station.

The incident, which was captured on CCTV, took place at Sweeneys Filling Station, Church Road, Newport, at around 1.50pm on September 13, last.

Commenting on the case before her, Judge Marie Keane said: I have no doubt that lady was traumatised by what happened that day at the gas station.

Read More:'Cart before the horse' - Limerick man in court over unauthorised timber-cutting business

Sergeant Regina McCarthy told Nenagh District Court that 27-year-old Thomas Cawley has 169 previous convictions - the most recent of which was recorded at Limerick Circuit Criminal Court and which resulted in a three-year prison sentence being imposed.

It was also detailed that Mr Cawley, who has an address at O'Dwyer Villas, Thomondgate, Limerick city, has ten previous convictions for driving without insurance. In response to his list of past offences, Judge Keane stated: This man has a horrendous record.

Judge Keane was told that after Mr Cawley smashed the car window and took the handbag, he left the service station. Shortly upon leaving the premises, he threw the items out of the car he was driving and they were recovered by gardai.

The court heard that the injured party has since been paid 200 in compensation and that the stolen items were returned to her. The woman in question declined to make a victim impact statement.

Solicitor Ian McNamara, representing Mr Cawley, said the offence was a crime of opportunity.

He told Judge Keane that while he was instructed by his client to ask the court to consider suspending any prison sentence, that he would not ask this of her.

Mr McNamara did however appeal to the Judge to take into consideration that Mr Cawleys daughter has a Communion in May and that his partner is expecting a child in the coming weeks.

The solicitor added that drug issues in the past played a role in Mr Cawleys criminal record.

Judge Keane sentenced the defendant to four months' imprisonment for criminal damage. A four month sentence was also imposed for the theft offence, to be served consecutively.

Mr Cawley was also fined 300 and disqualified from driving for four years after he was convicted of driving without insurance or a licence.

Funded by the Court Reporting Scheme.
THE funeral arrangements have been announced for James Keogh of Feenagh whose death in a road collision has left the West Limerick community reeling only weeks after the tragic loss of his close friend John Sheehan.

James died tragically following a road traffic collision near Kilmeedy on Sunday just over a month after John Sheehan died in a fatal collision. James attended the month's mind for John in Granagh last Sunday and he then went to the Kilmeedy Road Run to lend his support to the charity initiative prior to his own passing. He was a gifted mechanic and had been living in Croom for the last 17 years.

James is sadly missed by his loving wife Siobhan (nee Sheahan), father-in-law Seamus, mother-in-law Mary, daughter Rachel and extended family and his many great friends in the biking community. Predeceased by Aaron.

James is reposing at O'Grady's Funeral Home, Ballingarry, (V94 TW13) this Thursday evening from 5.30pm to 7pm. Arriving at St Mary's Church, Croom on Friday for 11.30am Requiem Mass with burial afterwards in Reilig Mhuire Cemetery.

READ MORE: Limerick motorcyclist named as two friends die weeks apart in tragic coincidences

Tributes have been pouring in for the late motorcyclist with mourners saying that James was a "brilliant mechanic" and "pure gentleman." Other mourners noted that the late mechanic always had time for a chat and was a "great charity man."

"James was a true gentleman, the kindest man you could meet."

Cllr Adam Teskey also paid tribute to James and offered his condolences to his family and fellow bikers. "This is the second tragedy within a short span of weeks to hit them."

Deputy Richard O'Donoghue attended the Vintage Road Run in Kilmeedy on Sunday and paid tribute to James saying that he was a "great friend" and "looked after everyone."

The Independent Ireland TD added that there was a minute's silence at the vintage road run for all the local people who've passed away in recent times. "Little did we think that another one of our own on the month's mind of John would go.

"To have one of the motorbike club go down, it hurts everyone," said Deputy O'Donoghue. "That to me is very sad having such a brilliant person have their life run short after being out... supporting his good friend John."

May he rest in peace.
OUR Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Limerick, has been officially recognised as a Champion School of Sanctuary at a special awards ceremony held at University of Galway.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of recognition in the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a 'Learn, Action, Share' framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice and build understanding about forced migration.

Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School, Limerick was recognised for its commitment to fostering inclusion and belonging, creating a school environment where every child feels safe, valued, and supported.

The first ever Champion School of Sanctuary awards ceremony held in the west of Ireland, celebrated seven schools nationwide for their outstanding commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for all students.

READ MORE: Limerick strengthens global links with new TUS - USST agreement

The ceremony was hosted by University of Galways Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership. The event underscores the Universitys commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Professor Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said: At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging - not only across our campus, but within the wider education system. The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre at University of Galway, added: At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education. The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit - its about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. Were proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isnt just encouraged, its lived every day.

Cllr Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said: Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student. Im proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.

Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary, commented: In a current climate of anti-migrant activity and unrest, the granting of this official status to these seven schools is timely. These schools have made a commitment to ensuring their school shines as a beacon of inclusion, welcome and equality.

Dr Veronica Crosbie, Chairperson of Places of Sanctuary Ireland, concluded: This award ceremony is an opportunity to celebrate the fantastic integration initiatives happening across the Irish educational landscape, often quietly under the radar of local and national media.

The Champion Schools of Sanctuary awards ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and Access Centre at University of Galway, and Galway City Partnership.
New Delhi: Bosch Ltd and Endurance Technologies, two of India's largest manufacturers of anti-lock braking systems, or ABS, have told investors that they will be able to meet a demand surge for such brakes if the government goes ahead with a plan to make them mandatory for all two-wheelers.

This stance taken by the two ABS makers is in direct contrast to the claims of two wheeler majors conveyed to the government that the domestic industry will be unable to meet the demand for these brakes if a draft mandate is implemented from 1 January.

Currently, only two wheelers with an engine capacity above 125cc are required to have ABS. These accounted for 16% of total 19 million sales in the financial year 2025. Bosch and Endurance together hold about 60-70% of ABS supply market share in India, as per research and advisory firm Kotak Institutional Equities.

Members of industry lobby Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (Siam) have pushed the government to delay the norms citing supply concerns.

While Bosch told analysts that there is no concern regarding the ability of its sister company which makes such components to meet fresh demand, the management of Endurance Technologies said that it is increasing capacity some five times.

The Endurance management also said that it is lining up key components from all production lines to meet ABS demand of automakers quickly.



Leading two wheeler players Bajaj Auto, Honda Motorcycle and Scooter India, TVS Motor Co., and Hero Motocorp were among those expressing apprehensions of the ABS supply constraints.

Tech, scale not an issue

Som Kapoor, partner at EY, said that there is no technology gap which has to be overcome for making ABS technology in India, so scaling supplies should not be a major challenge in India.

"There are many global companies present in the segment which are operating in India. Implementation of the norms would lead to a surge in business for these firms so they will be happy to take on the incremental demand," Kapoor said.

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Guruprasad Mudlapur, managing director and CTO at Bosch India, said that Boschs sister company, Bosch Chassis Systems India Pvt Ltd, is one of the leading players in making ABS.

In terms of capacities, we are very well prepared to handle the increased demand that's likely to come out of changes in legislation," Mudlapur told investors on 11 November during the Q2 results earnings call. If the mandate gets implemented as in the draft, we are very well prepared to handle that."

On it post-earnings call on 13 November, Endurance's managing director Anurang Jain said the company has ordered a production line that can help increase ABS capacity by 1.2 million units and is ready to order a similar line depending on the government decision  taking up the new capacity to 2.4 million.



We have a line of sight to use that line but we'll have to see what is the timeline which comes under this new guideline and the second 1.2 million line we will order based on this guideline, which we get this month," Jain said, adding that its current capacity of 640,000 will be fully utilised to meet ABS demand by the end of March 2026.

For the large increase in volumes of single-channel ABS, we are lining up backward integration of steel-bred hoses, valves and ECU assemblies. We also plan to install part of the ECU printed circuit boards leads through our SMT line," Jain said. ECU is short for electronic control unit.

Endurance, incidentally, has a long association with the two wheeler industry. The company was founded in 1985 to supply aluminum castings to Bajaj Auto by Jain, a nephew of late Rahul Bajaj, chairman emeritus of the Bajaj group of companies until his death in 2022.

Safety vs cost

While ABS improves safety for two wheelers by ensuring that brakes dont lock on roads to prevent skidding, the installation of the system can lead to a price hike of 3,000 to 6,000. This, leading automakers fear, will hurt the demand of entry level bikes in the country.

Moreover, leaders at Bajaj Auto and Honda have publicly said that suppliers of India will not be able to meet the demand of companies and will need more time to prepare.

It will be difficult to manage the capacity because that doesn't obviously exist. This includes all scooters, all 100cc, all 125cc bikes, which is a huge component and therefore obviously, the government has taken note of this that there will have to be a phase-wise execution," Rakesh Sharma, executive director at Bajaj Auto, said on the discussions with the government.

Honda Motorcycles director of sales Yogesh Mathur told Mint in an interview in July that the dependence on imports will increase substantially if the government doesnt extend the deadline.



Cost is definitely there as an impact. But more important is in terms of whether we are really prepared from the supply side point of view," Mathur said then.

A group representing two wheeler makers and Siam had met Union roads minister Nitin Gadkari on 11 November to raise concerns about the implementation of the norms.

Queries sent to Siam, Bajaj Auto, Honda, TVS, and Hero remained unanswered at the time of publishing.
Billionaire businessman Gautam Adani-promoted Adani Enterprises said on Wednesday that the creditors of the bankrupt infrastructure firm Jaiprakash Associates have approved its takeover proposal. The company did not disclose its bid value.

Upon takeover, Adani Enterprises will have control over Jaiprakash Associates' business spanning seven industries that had reported over 6,500 crore in revenue and over 35,000 crore in assets for FY25.

Adani will get 3,985 acres of land across Noida and Greater Noida in Uttar Pradesh, 6.5 million tonnes of cement capacity in Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh, and a 24% stake in Jaiprakash Power Ventures. A hospitality business with 867 rooms across five hotels in Delhi, Agra and Mussoorie and a construction and fertilizer plants are also part of the auction process.

Also Read | GMR to refinance Hyderabad airport debt with 2,150 cr bond

The conglomerate pipped four other players that included Anil Agarwals Vedanta Ltd, Puneet Dalmia-backed Dalmia Bharat, Naveen Jindals Jindal Power and PNC Infratech, to take over the debt-ridden conglomerate, under the corporate insolvency resolution process.

Adani Enterprises has received a Letter of Intent from the Resolution Professional on November 19, 2025 at 3:05 p.m. JAL is engaged in wide array of businesses such as engineering and construction, cement, power, real estate, fertilisers, hospitality including through investments in its subsidiaries and affiliates. The implementation of the resolution plan is subject to the terms of the LOI and requisite approvals, the company said in a statement to the bourses.

Also Read | Why Indias mining reform is stuck between states and the Centre

The Noida-based Jaiprakash Associates' case is one of the longest running insolvency proceedings in India. It was admitted into corporate insolvency by the National Company Law Tribunals Allahabad bench on 3 June, 2024.

Creditors vote The group owes 59,000 crore to banks. Led by the State Bank of India, the consortium of banks had transferred part of their debt to National Asset Reconstruction Co Ltd (NARCL) valued at 12,700 crore after insolvency proceedings were initiated. The NARCL, with nearly 86% majority in the committee of creditors (CoC) emerged as a key decision-maker in the process. Under the insolvency rules, a resolution plan needs approval from at least 67% of CoC votes. NARCL alone met this bar.

In September this year, Vedanta Ltd had emerged a key contender for Jaiprakash Associates in an auction process, where it had bid an enterprise value of 17000 crore for the group. However, when the final resolution plans were put to vote in the CoC, Adanis resolution plan secured the maximum support. All the five resolution plans were put to vote in a process that started on 10 November and concluded on 18 November.

Also Read | India may ease imports of specialty steel to address supply gaps

Adani's resolution plan offered a higher upfront payment compared to the competing proposals, a person aware of the development said. The conglomerate has proposed a total plan value of over 14,500 crore, including 6,000 crore upfront and another 7,600 crore payable after two years. In net present value terms, the offer is estimated at 12,000 crore, the person said.

Mint could not independently verify the details of the resolution plan proposed by Adani.
Adobe Inc. announced on Wednesday that it has reached an agreement to acquire the marketing software company Semrush Holdings Inc. for a total of $1.9 billion.

The transaction, structured as an all-cash deal, values Semrush at $12 per share.

Adobe stated in a statement that the acquisition is expected to be finalised during the first half of 2026.

Acquiring the company will help Adobe offer a comprehensive solution that gives marketers a holistic understanding of how their brands appear across owned channels, LLMs, traditional search and the wider web, the Photoshop maker said.

This announcement marks Adobes first proposed takeover since its unsuccessful $20 billion bid for Figma Inc., which fell apart in 2023. Adobe had previously walked away from the proposed Figma acquisition after encountering significant regulatory obstacles in both Europe and the UK. That deal would have been one of the largest takeovers of a private software maker in history.

Following the takeover news, Semrush shares soared by 75% to $11.83 in premarket trading, while Adobes stock saw only minor change. The Wall Street Journal had initially reported the deal earlier in the day.

AI Strategy Semrush specialises in the design and development of AI-powered software that assists companies with search engine optimisation, social media management, and digital advertising campaigns.

While Adobe is perhaps best known for its tools used by creative professionals, such as Photoshop, the firm also offers an extensive suite of marketing and analytics products, known as the "Adobe Experience Cloud," which is an increasingly important source of revenue.

Also Read | Affinity by Canva goes free: Here to compete with pro design apps from Adobe

Despite this growth, Adobes stock has faced challenges this year amid concerns that rapid advancements in artificial intelligence could undermine the companys core creative business model. The stock had lost roughly a quarter of its value this year.
Anthropic is now valued at around $350 billion, up from its $183 billion valuation as of September, after Microsoft and Nvidia jointly invested $15 billion in the AI startup, CNBC reported.

Microsoft announced this strategic partnership with Nvidia and Anthropic on Tuesday, signalling a fresh push to diversify its AI needs and reduce its reliance on ChatGPT-maker OpenAI.

As part of the agreement, Microsoft will invest up to $5 billion in Anthropic, while Nvidia will invest up to $10 billion in the Artificial Intelligence startup. The terms of the companys next round are still being finalised, CNBC said in a news report.

Anthropic's commitments Anthropic has agreed to purchase $30 billion worth of Azure compute capacity from Microsoft and has contracted for additional compute capacity up to 1 gigawatt, according to the Official Microsoft Blog.

Simultaneously, it has also committed to buy up to 1 gigawatt of compute capacity with Nvidias Grace Blackwell and Vera Rubin systems.

This is a dream come true for us, Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said in a video shared with the Official Microsoft Blog on Tuesday. You know, weve admired the work of Anthropic and Dario for a long time, and this is the first time we are going to deeply partner with Anthropic to accelerate Claude.

The video included Anthropic co-founder and CEO Dario Amodei, Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella, and NVIDIA founder and CEO Jensen Huang, gathered to discuss the new partnerships.

Nvidia and Anthropic are working together to support Anthropics future growth for the first time, the blog post said. The companies will collaborate on engineering and design to boost the performance and efficiency of Anthropics models, while optimising Nvidia architectures to meet Anthropics specific workloads.

Microsoft's backing of OpenAI Satya Nadella-led Microsoft has invested billions of dollars in Anthropics rival, OpenAI, since 2019. Founded as a nonprofit research lab in 2015, OpenAI has evolved into one of the world's fastest-growing commercial AI companies, driven by the breakout success of its ChatGPT chatbot.

Just last month, OpenAI completed a recapitalisation, along with Microsoft formally outlining its partnership with the startup. Microsoft holds a stake in OpenAIs for-profit business, valued at $135 billion, or roughly 27% of the company on an as-converted, diluted basis.

Also Read | Bill Gates Just Sold 17 Million Microsoft Shares Worth $8.7 Billion

As an industry, we really need to move beyond any type of zero-sum narrative or winner-take-all hype, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella said in the video. Whats required now is the hard work of building broad, durable capabilities together so that this technology can deliver real, tangible local success for every country, every sector and every customer. The opportunity is simply too big to approach any other way, he added.

About Anthropic The AI startup was founded by former OpenAI research executives, including its CEO, Dario Amodei, in 2021. The Amazon-backed company's most popular offering is a family of large language models called Claude.

Also Read | Anthropic CEO predicts entry-level jobs that could be wiped out due to AI
Maharatna PSU Oil India on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, signed a technology service agreement with French energy giant TotalEnergies, with the aim to expand the company's India offshore oil portfolio, according to an official announcement.

Oil India Limited (OIL) and TotalEnergies inked a Technology Service Agreement on 19th November 2025 in New Delhi to strengthen strategic collaboration for exploration activities in Deep and Ultra-deepwater Offshore frontiers of Indian sedimentary Basins, Oil India informed the stock exchanges through its filing.

What will the collaboration bring? According to the announcement, the collaboration with TotalEnergies aims to leverage the French energy giant's expertise in the deep and ultradeep water exploration value chain to implement in Oil India's current and future offshore portfolio.

Oil India plans to find shallow offshore blocks in the Andaman Basin, exploration in OILs OALP-IX Ultra-deep water Blocks in the Mahanadi and Krishna Godavari Basins.

The partnership between the two companies also aims to explore offshore fronts towards potential hydrocarbon discovery in efforts to secure a sustainable energy option for the future of India.

Oil India share price trend Oil India share price closed 0.53% higher at 435.85 after Wednesday's stock market session, compared to 433.55 at the previous market close. The company announced its deal update during the afternoon market session on 19 November 2025.

Shares of Oil India have given stock market investors more than 617% returns on their investment in the last five years. However, the shares have lost over 10% in the last one-month period.

Also Read | Oil India explores equity investments in BPCL's proposed Andhra refinery

On a year-to-date (YTD) basis, the company shares dropped 0.19% in 2025, but they have risen 7.2% in the last one-month period. Oil India shares are trading 0.17% higher in the last five market sessions on the Indian stock market.

Oil India shares hit their 52-week high level at 528 on 25 November 2024, while the 52-week low level was at 322.15 on 7 April 2025, according to the data collected from the BSE website. The company's market capitalisation (M-Cap) stood at 71,058.36 crore as of the stock market close on Tuesday, 19 November 2025.

Read all stories by Anubhav Mukherjee

Disclaimer: This story is for educational purposes only. The views and recommendations above are those of individual analysts or broking companies, not Mint. We advise investors to check with certified experts before making any investment decisions.
The Supreme Court, on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, ordered the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), the Enforcement Directorate (ED), the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), and the capital markets regulator, Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi), to investigate the allegations against Sammaan Capital, reported news agency ANI.

The court directed officials to investigate allegations related to five borrower groups that were extended loans by Indiabulls Housing Finance (now known as Sammaan Capital) between 2014 and 2017, according to the report.

What does the petitioner allege? The petitioner, Citizens Whistleblower Forum, alleged that Indiabulls Housing Finance promoter Sameer Gehlaut has left India to reside in London and acquired several five-star hotels, aircraft and yachts, among other assets, in that country.

The forum also highlighted that the public's shareholding has been effectively transferred to Sameer Gehlaut, and hence, a detailed investigation is required into the allegations.

What does Sammaan's lawyer say? On Wednesday, senior advocate Mukul Rohatgi, who represents Sammaan Capital, said the company is not a defaulter and does not have a pending case or investigation against it.

It is not a defaulter...It has no pending case or investigation against it. The petition was first filed before the high court. All authorities examined everything and found nothing wrong, Rohatgi told the media on Wednesday.

Also Read | IHC to take control of Sammaan Capital in 8,850 crore deal

Rohatgi stated that the authorities examined everything and found nothing wrong, whereas the petitioner claims that the promoter has left the country and settled in England.

But we urged the Court and it recorded in its order that it has not made any observations regarding those allegations and that authorities should look into this once again. We have no objection because there are no allegations against us by any authority. As far as Sammaan Capital is concerned, they maintain that there are no allegations against them...The next hearing is on 17th December, Rohatgi told the media.

Sammaan Capital share price Sammaan Capital share price closed 12.47% lower at 159.75 after Wednesday's stock market session, compared to 182.50 at the previous market close.

Also Read | Sammaan Capital to raise $300 million via secured social bonds

The company's shares dropped nearly 14% during the intraday session on 19 November, amid the ongoing case in the Supreme Court regarding investigations into certain loans the company had extended under its previous name, Indiabulls Housing Finance.

Shares of Sammaan Capital have lost 7.90% over the last one-month period, and are trading 11.86% lower in the last five market sessions. However, over the last one-year period, the company's shares have risen 5.16%.
Toronto-Dominion Bank was sued by a group of former employees who claim they were improperly fired from their jobs amid disclosure of widespread criminal money laundering through bank branches.

Five Chinese and Chinese-American former employees sued Toronto-Dominion claiming they were dismissed from branches in New York City as part of the banks effort to crack down on money laundering. At least 22 people were fired from four Chinatown branches in the citys Manhattan, Brooklyn and Queens boroughs, they said.

The plaintiffs claim they were hired to forge ties with Toronto-Dominion customers with Chinese ancestry, and then subjected to illegal firing and debanking based on their ethnicity. Theyre seeking unspecified damages.

The former employees were punished for crimes committed by other Chinese individuals  crimes they were not involved in by individuals they did not know, according to the complaint filed Wednesday in Manhattan federal court.

The five plaintiffs are seeking to sue as a nationwide class of Chinese and Chinese-American Toronto-Dominion branch employees in the US who have been investigated and fired for unspecific violations of the companys code of conduct and ethics since 2022.

Toronto-Dominion declined to comment, citing pending litigation.

In October last year, Toronto-Dominion pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering and struck a $3.1 billion settlement with US authorities. The settlement was the culmination of years-long investigations into the banks failure to catch and stop multiple criminal rings from using its branches to launder money associated with drug trafficking and other illicit activity.

The firm, Canadas second-largest bank, has spent hundreds of millions of dollars on improvements to its anti-money-laundering controls and has hired dozens of experts to bulk up its programs.

One network that operated out of a clothing warehouse in Queens ultimately laundered $474 million through Toronto-Dominion branches alone, according to court documents. Da Ying Sze, the leader of that ring who later pleaded guilty, paid bribes to Toronto-Dominion tellers throughout New York, New Jersey and Pennsylvania to keep the operation running smoothly when he deposited piles of cash and then quickly used the money to purchase bank checks, records show.

The scandal upended Toronto-Dominions upper management and corporate board  long-serving Chief Executive Officer Bharat Masrani stepped down early and six directors, including the chairman, left the board this year.

Toronto-Dominion has 10 million US retail clients and about 1,100 branches concentrated along the East Coast. It faces a cap on its US retail banking assets as a result of the settlement.

The case is Wong v. TD Bank Group, 25-cv-09634, US District Court, Southern District of New York .

2025 Bloomberg L.P.
US President Donald Trump's crackdown on illegal immigration in America has delayed the construction of South Korean automaker Hyundai's electric vehicle (EV) battery plant in Georgia, United States, reported the news agency Bloomberg on Wednesday, 19 November 2025.

The company said that the immigration raid in its facility has delayed the expansion construction by at least two to three months due to the labour shortages and the rising crisis of US tariffs on all Korean imports to America.

Also Read | Trump deportation campaign picks up, 81 held on 1st day of immigration crackdown

According to the agency report, the US federal government has issued an official apology to the automaker for the sudden Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) raid in its Georgia plant, which delayed the construction operations.

What happened during the ICE raid? US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in September 2025, raided the Hyundai-LG Energy Solution Ltd plant in Georgia, where the federal agents detained 475 workers, mostly Korean, Hyundai Motor Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Jose Munoz told the news agency.

Images emerged of ICE detainees who were shackled at their wrists, waist and ankles, which sent waves of shock throughout the industry amid the ongoing diplomatic relations between South Korea and the United States.

Also Read | ICE gets largest share of 50,000 federal worker hires under Trump

Munoz reportedly received a call from the Governor of Georgia, who told him that someone had made a phone call and made it look like there were illegal immigrants working the Georgia plant.

So, apparently, somebody made a phone call and made it look like there were illegal immigrants. Thats absolutely not the case, Munoz told the news agency.

The ICE raid at the facility has exposed risks to Hyundai's billions of dollars invested in the US economy, including to the company's plan for $26 billion investment in the country.

A bad surprise? Munoz called the raid a bad surprise at the sidelines of the New Economy Forum in Singapore, while reiterating that this has not affected Hyundai's commitment to invest their money in the United States. The Hyundai Motor CEO also indicated that the company plans to double down on its expansion plans.

We cannot simply, because something happened, which is obviously an accident, and you get even apologies from the president of the United States, say this is going to change our plans, he told the news agency. We want to maintain our investments in the country. We think in the mid to long term, things are going to get better.

This raid comes at a time when the automaker is already facing $1.2 billion in tariff costs in the third quarter of 2025. According to the agency report, the company lowered its profit outlook for 2025, while increasing its revenue forecast for the year.
New Delhi: State-run Oil India Ltd (OIL) and French energy major TotalEnergies have joined hands for the exploration of deep and ultra-deepwater offshore basins in the country.

In a statement on Wednesday, Oil India said that the partnership would involve exploration in the ultra-deep water blocks in the Mahanadi and Krishna-Godavari Basin won by Oil India under the ninth round of bidding under the Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP), along with evaluation of opportunities under the ongoing tenth round and bids in the future. Mint earlier reported that Oil India is in talks with global exploration and production (E&P) majors, including TotalEnergies, to jointly explore hydrocarbon blocks in India.

"Oil India Ltd (OIL) and TotalEnergies inked a 'Technology Service Agreement' on 19th November 2025 in New Delhi to strengthen strategic collaboration for exploration activities in Deep and Ultra-deepwater Offshore frontiers of Indian sedimentary Basins, including the stratigraphic wells as mandated by the Govt. of India," it said. The agreement will help OIL to harness TotalEnergies expertise in the deep and ultra-deep water exploration value chain across OILs current and future offshore portfolio.

Also Read | Oil India in talks with ExxonMobil Total, Petrobras for joint exploration

TotalEnergies would also provide support during stratigraphic or test well drilling initiatives in offshore Category II and III Basins.

Further, both companies would also partner in the appraisal programme of a gas find in the shallow offshore blocks in the Andaman Basin. The public sector entity has already announced the discovery of natural gas reserves off the Andaman Islands, a discovery considered crucial for India in its quest for energy security. In 2020, under the third round of auctions, Oil India had won two blocks in the Andaman basin, touted as an energy-rich region.

Aid to technology-driven analysis Speaking to Mint, Ranjit Rath, chairman and managing director, OIL, said, "Securing collaboration with an IOC (international oil company) helps in enhanced technology-driven seismic 2D and 3D analysis and helps us in securing their global experience and expertise. Evaluation of offshore blocks is the key feature of this partnership. If there is a requirement for drilling in the future, then the IOC and Oil India would consider joining hands for drilling, as and when the risk is hedged. Further, stratigraphic wells are key to India's exploration plans, which would help us unlock further potential. This partnership would also play a key role there."

Experts said that as India eyes energy security and reducing import dependence for oil, policymakers, and exploration and production companies have been looking at deep and ultra-deep offshore exploration, and global collaborations are critical in this space, given the expertise of global players.

Gaurav Moda, partner and leader for energy at EY-Parthenon India, said, Although deep and ultra-deepwater basins have the potential to meet Indias domestic needs, the technology required for exploration and production in these basins is niche. Global collaborations are valuable to extract such potential."

In February, the Maharatna company signed a memorandum of understanding with Petrobras, Brazils state-owned oil company, to collaborate on the exploration and production of hydrocarbon resources in Indias offshore regions.

Another tie-up Another state-run E&P major, Oil & Natural Gas Corp Ltd (ONGC), has also tied up with UK-headquartered bp plc for offshore explorations and drilling of stratigraphic wells.

Under the OALP-IX round, Oil India bagged nine blocks, adding 51,000 sq. km. to its exploration portfolio. Three of the blocks--one each in Cambay, Mahanadi and Assam Shelf basins--were won in partnership with its public sector peer Oil and Natural Gas Corp. (ONGC), while another six were acquired on its own. Under OALP-X round, the Union government is eyeing the exploration of nearly 2.5 lakh sq km in new offshore and onshore areas under OALP-X.
In an interview with Republic TV, Infosys co-founder Narayana Murthy reignited the 72-hour workweek debate by praising the 9-9-6 work schedule model. When asked a supposed Gen Z question by host Arnab Goswami on work-life balance, Murthy urged Indian workers to take up the 72-hour workweek, adding that Prime Minister Narendra Modi works 100 hours a week.

This was the billionaire-founder's response: Let me start with what one of my friends, who was also one of India's very successful corporate leaders, said... that gentleman gave a brilliant answer. He said, Sir, first we should all get a life then we should worry about work-life balance.

What did Narayana Murthy say about 72-hour workweek, 9-9-6 rule? Murthy added that at this moment, what India needs is for people to work hard, in a disciplined manner, work smart, and create opportunities for those people who still do not have any jobs so that they too can have a life. Then we can worry about work-life balance.

My personal view is that... I haven't seen anybody in the world who has achieved anything without hard work. Performance leads to recognition, recognition leads to respect, and respect leads to power. If India wants power, it has to perform. No words will satisfy he feels.

Murthy also went on to cite the so-called 9-9-6 rule: There is a saying in China, 9, 9, 6. You know what it means? 9 am to 9 pm, 6 days a week. And that is a 72-hour week, he declared.

What is the 996 Rule? Explained Practised illegally by some companies in China, the 9-9-6 rule has generated much criticism among Chinese workers and human rights activists. But the system has been praised by Murthy as a worthy model for Indian employees to follow.

Notably, the Chinese Supreme People's Court in 2021 ruled that 12-hour workdays are illegal, according to an NPR report. This came amid a number of worker deaths and work stress-related suicides in the country.

Workers and labour-related studies have also classified the system as modern day slavery and criticised companies for enforcing inhuman working conditions on employees.
PhysicsWallah Ltds stellar listing is likely to set the tone for the wider edtech sector over the next few quarters, bringing back funding to online learning startups starved of capital for two to three years, according to investors, founders and industry experts.

The Westbridge Capital-backed company, which raised 3,100 crore in its initial public offering, listed at a 33% premium to its IPO price. Shares of the edtech firm closed at a valuation of 44,000 crore (about $5 billion) on the first trading day. The stock opened at 145 on the National Stock Exchange and 143.90 on the BSE compared with the issue price of 109 per share.

Siddharth Pai, founding partner at 3one4 Capital, sees PhysicsWallahs market debut as a validation of the original edtech bet. He argues that the blowups at Byjus and Unacademy were driven by companyspecific choices, not by some fatal flaw in the broader thesis.

Each of them had different reasons why they tanked," he said, pointing to governance and overextension in Byjus case and a mix of covidera overvaluation and running out of steam in the business" once schools reopened in Unacademys case. By contrast, PhysicsWallah showed that an edtech company could acquire students at low cost, stay profitable before large cheques came in, and grow without relying on unsustainable" marketing spends, he said.

The Covid-era funding euphoria has faded. From $4.15 billion across 378 deals in 2021, equity funding for edtech startups has dropped consistently to $141 million across 49 deals so far in 2025, according to Tracxn data.

Key Takeaways Stellar listing (33% premium, $5B valuation) validates the core edtech business model, contrasting with the failures of Byju's and Unacademy, which are seen as company-specific issues.

The successful IPO is anticipated to reset the positive sentiment and bring much-needed funding back to the wider edtech sector.

Edtech funding collapsed drastically from $4.15B in 2021 to only $141M in 2025, reflecting the end of the pandemic-era funding euphoria.

The company commands a high 10x revenue "pure tech multiple" despite having a hybrid business model (nearly 50/50 split between online and offline), which traditionally merits lower multiples.

PhysicsWallah's public trading will be the new reference point for investors to evaluate and value all future edtech companies, especially those blending online and offline centers.

Long-term success depends on the company's ability to provide realistic guidance and consistently meet performance targets, avoiding the "exuberant guidance" that hurt previous sector giants.

Investors have also intensified the scrutiny of new-age companies as they tap public markets. Yet, PhysicsWallahs IPO was subscribed 1.92 times overall, with qualified institutional buyers bidding 2.86 times their quota and retail investors 1.14 times. The non-institutional (HNI) bucket was covered only about half at 0.51 times.

While most investors debate whether new-age companies like PhysicsWallah should command valuations of a tech company or that of a traditional education services provider, given the offline push, PhysicsWallah, which is 72% owned by the founders, has managed to command a valuation of 37,000 crore on listing.

On FY25 restated revenue of around 2,887 crore, the IPO values the company at more than 10 times its sales, and at a steep premium to its net asset value. PhysicsWallah reported a net loss of 243 crore and an adjusted Ebitda or operating margin of just under 15% in the same year.

Tech-level valuation

PhysicsWallahs is effectively being valued at around 10 times revenue, which is a pure tech multiple, but the business is now a fractured hybrid" where half the growth is expected from offline centres, said Pradyumna Nag, partner at transaction advisory firm Prequate Advisory. Historically, offline education players in India have struggled to sustain more than three to five times revenue, so there is natural investor caution at these levels."

According to PhysicsWallahs DRHP, FY25 revenue was almost evenly split between online and offline streams, with around 4849% coming from digital courses and about 47% from its physical centres, where average revenue per user is upwards of 40,000 for offline centres, compared with under 4,000 online.

Pai of 3one4 Capital describes PhysicsWallahs valuation as fairly priced", given the brand story and the lack of true comparables in Indias listed markets. He believes the stock can trade well as long as two things hold: the company doesnt face a close listed rival in the same category, and it offers realistic guidance and then meets it.

The thing that will hurt them over in the long run is if they end up actually giving exuberant guidance and miss it consistently," Pai warned. The market will then assume that the company dont have visibility on their own business and will roll them."

Test of irrationality

Irrational exuberance has already singed Indias edtech sector once.

During the covid boom between 2020 and 2022, Indias edtech story was defined by mega cheques and ever-rising valuations. Byjus alone raised well over $3 billion across multiple rounds in that periodincluding a $1.46 billion funding in 2021 and an $800 million round in March 2022 that took its valuation to $22 billion. Global investors such as General Atlantic, Tiger Global, Chan Zuckerberg Initiative, Qatar Investment Authority, crowded onto the cap table at the time.

Unacademy raised a $440 million round led by Temasek in August 2021 at a valuation of $3.44 billion, up from $2 billion in late 2020, backed by investors such as SoftBank, General Atlantic, and Tiger Global, as pandemic-era demand for online classes surged.

Three years on, that froth has all but evaporated. Byjus, once Indias most valuable startup, is now in insolvency proceedings and fighting creditors in tribunals, while Unacademy is in talks to sell its core test prep business to rival UpGrad for just $300400 million, a fraction of its $3.44 billion peak valuation, effectively wiping out value for many late-stage backers.

The slowdown has hit both ends of the funding spectrum: seed-to-Series A rounds fell from $597 million across 338 deals in 2021 to just $38 million across 39 deals in 2025, while Series B and beyond dropped from $3.5 billion across 40 deals in 2021 to $103 million across 10 deals in 2025.

While early-stage deals still account for the bulk of deal activity by number, even as their dollar value has shrunk. Much of this fresh capital has been invested in study-abroad and skill-development businesses. Executive education firm Eruditus, founded by Ashwin Damera, recently closed a refinancing deal of up to $150 million, led by Mars Growth Capital( a joint venture between Liquidity Group and Japans MUFG Bank) with additional participation from HSBC.

PhysicsWallah a benchmark

However, growth-stage funds are already treating PhysicsWallahs IPO as a reference point for what public markets are willing to pay for education businesses that blend online scale with offline centres and are still reporting losses, according to founders and investors.

A founder building an upskilling-focused edtech startup, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, said multiple pitches to venture capital and private equity funds in recent months have been met with the same feedbackthat PhysicsWallahs public market debut is now a live scoreboard that will influence how both public and private capital approach edtech over the next 1224 months.

Mukul Rustagi, chief executive and co-founder of Classplus, which offers SaaS software for tutors and schools along with a test prep offering, said private market investors now expect the core education business to be properly cash generative, with any cash burn confined to new bets rather than the main engine. But within public markets, it's clear that how PhysicsWallah trades over the next four to eight quarters will decide whether 10 times sales is sustainable or whether the market pushes it down to a lower band."

Rustagi said there is no bigger universal valuation benchmark than public market pricing for a sector like edtech...PhysicsWallahs IPO is a very clear benchmark. Private investors will recalibrate how they identify, evaluate and value edtech investments based on how this stock trades."

Public markets set valuation benchmarks, signalling what growth rates are rewarded, and they indicate which business models and strategies are really appreciated, he said. Over the next one to two years, how this stock trades will decide how education companies are valued, how bullish private markets become on the segment, and how liberal investors are willing to be on valuation multiples."
Bihar Election Results: The Bihar assembly election took place against the backdrop of opposition allegations that the Election Commission and the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) carried out large-scale voter deletions. Despite the controversy, the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) swept the polls, winning over 200 seats and clearing the path for Nitish Kumar to return as chief minister for a record tenth term.

New data released by the Election Commission of India (ECI) on Wednesday shows that among the five seats with the highest and lowest numbers of voter deletions during the Special Intensive Revision (SIR), the NDA won four, while the Congress secured one.

In Gopalganj, the voters list shrank from 3,52,054 (as of 24 June 2025) to 2,95,261 after the SIR  a reduction of 56,793 voters marked ineligible by the Election Commission of India. BJP candidate Subhash Singh won the seat, defeating Congresss Om Prakash Singh by nearly 28,900 votes.

View full Image In Purnia, a seat in Seemanchal -- a Muslim-dominated region of Bihar -- as many 50,767 voters were deleted during SIR. The BJP won the seat.

In Purnia, a seat in Seemanchal -- a Muslim-dominated region of Bihar -- as many as 50,767 voters were deleted during SIR. Vijay Kumar Khemka of the BJP won this seat, defeating the Congress party's Jitendra Kumar by 33,222 votes.

Similarly, in Motihari, where 49,747 voters were deleted during SIR, the BJP candidate emerged as the winner. Pramod Kumar of the BJP defeated Dewa Gupta of the Rashtriya Janata Dal by 92,517 votes in the Motihari constituency.

In Kuchaikote, as many as 43,226 voters were deleted, and the Janata Dal (United) candidate won the seat. Amrendra Kumar of Janata Dal (United) won the seat, defeating Nari Narayan Singh of the Congress party by 24,491 votes.

The NDA's overwhelming success amid allegations of voter deletions raises serious questions about the integrity of the electoral process.

Kishanganj was an exception among the top 5 seats, however. The seat, which saw approximately 42,940 'ineligible' voters deleted during SIR, was eventually won by a candidate from the Congress party. Qamrul Hoda of the Congress defeated Sweety Singh of the BJP by 76,875 votes in the Kishanganj seat.
Nitish Kumar was elected Janata Dal (United) legislative party leader on Wednesday. Kumar is all set to be elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance later in the day.

This will pave the way for Kumar to take oath as Bihar CM for a record 10th time. Kumar is expected to tender his resignation to Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan as head of the outgoing government later today.

Also Read | Bihar Election Results: 20 ministers to take oath with Nitish Kumar on this date

Kumar, 74, is expected to be sworn in along with at least 20 ministers of his cabinet in Patna on 20 November. The oath-taking will take place in Patna's iconic Gandhi Maidan at 11.30 AM.

Samrat elected BJP legislature party leader Samrat Choudhary, the outgoing deputy chief minister, has also been named BJP legislature party leader in Bihar.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, several other Union ministers and CMs of NDA-ruled states are expected to attend the ceremony.

The NDA coalition of the JD (U) and the BJP bagged more than 200 seats in the 243-member House in the recent Bihar Assembly Elections. The BJP won 9 seats, followed by the JD(U)s tally of 85 in the elections, the result of which was announced on 14 November.

Lobbying underway for Speaker's Post Intense lobbying is still ongoing among NDA partners to finalise the allocation of cabinet berths and reach a consensus on the post of Assembly Speaker ahead of the swearing-in ceremony of the new Bihar government.

Sources told news agency PTI on Tuesday said efforts are underway to evolve a consensus among NDA partners over the post of Assembly Speaker, as both the BJP and the JD(U) are staking their claims to the post.

In the outgoing Assembly, BJP leader Nand Kishore Yadav served as Speaker, while JD(U)s Narendra Narayan Yadav held the position of Deputy Speaker.

20 Ministers to take oath with Kumar As many as 20 ministers are likely to take oath with the CM, around 6-7 ministers each from the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the JD(U), according to a report in The Indian Express. There will also be two ministers from the LJP (RV) and one each from the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) and the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) who will take oath along with Kumar on Thursday, according to reports.

Also Read | Why Congress crumbled in Bihar? Lok Sabha MP Tariq Anwar flags this decision

The maximum number of cabinet berths is constitutionally capped at 15% of an assemblys strength. Bihar, which has 243 assembly seats, can have up to 36 ministers, including the chief minister. Other ministers beyond 20 may take the oath at a later time.
Nitish Kumar is all set to become the Bihar Chief Minister for a record 10th time.

Earlier in the day, Kumar was chosen as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in Bihar during a meeting of newly elected MLAs of the alliance partners in Patna. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Samrat Choudhary was elected leader of the BJP legislature party in Bihar, and Vijay Sinha was named deputy leader.

The meeting was held at 'Samvad', located at the Chief Minister's Secretariat, and attended by all newly elected MLAs and 22 Legislative Council members of the party, reported ANI.

Nitish Kumar was elected the NDAs legislative leader following the coalition's sweeping victory in the 2025 Bihar Assembly elections. The alliance bagged 202 out of 243 seats.

When will Bihar govt be formed? Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar submitted his resignation on Wednesday as part of the formal process to form the new government, one he is set to lead again after the NDA's victory.

Governor Arif Mohammad Khan accepted his resignation and asked him to continue as caretaker chief minister until the new government is formed, BJP state president Dilip Jaiswal told reporters.

The new NDA government will take oath on Thursday at the iconic Gandhi Maidan, where the 74-year-old leader will be sworn in as the chief minister for the record 10th time.

Who all will take the oath? As many as 20 ministers are likely to take oath with the CM  around 6-7 ministers each from the BJP and the JD(U), according to a report in The Indian Express.

View full Image The new NDA government will take oath on Thursday at the iconic Gandhi Maidan, where the 74-year-old leader will be sworn in as the chief minister for the record 10th time.





There will also be two ministers from the LJP (RV) and one each from the Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) and the Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM), who will take oath along with Kumar on Thursday, according to reports.

Will PM Modi attend the oath-taking ceremony? Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and several top NDA leaders are set to attend the swearing-in ceremony of Nitish Kumar and his cabinet at Gandhi Maidan on Thursday, news wire PTI reported citing sources.
Welfare promises being made by political parties ahead of elections in recent years are beginning to reshape the fiscal landscape of Indian states. Political considerations are pushing spending up, even as revenue sources remain stressed and capital outlay meant to power long-term growth is uneven. Bihars existing strain is unmissable, but the pressures are now visible across several states heading into or emerging from polls, pointing to a structural shift in how state finances can balance welfare and sustainability.

Freebie fallout

Bihar is a case in point. Populist welfare schemes announced during the recent poll campaign, including a 10,000 grant to women, could cost the state over 41,000 crore, Emkay Global estimates. Thats nearly 4% of the gross state domestic product (GSDP), and exceeds even the planned capital expenditure for 2025-26.

Bihar already relies heavily on New Delhi for funds, with over 70% of its revenue coming from central transfers, including tax devolution and grants. This makes the states finances inherently volatile, as any fluctuation in central support can immediately strain fiscal stability, pointed out Paras Jasrai, associate director at India Ratings and Research.

The states fiscal deficit in 2024-25 is estimated to have been 6% of GSDP, while the budget for 2025-26 targets 3%, based on an ambitious 22% nominal economic growth. But data until September shows the fiscal deficit is already at 7.8% of the estimated GSDP.

What this means is that the new Bihar government will begin its term with far less fiscal room than its welfare promises require.

Also Read | Bihar elections: A primer for the next government to jumpstart the state

Poll pressures

A similar strain is visible across several states that saw polls in the past two years. Fiscal deficits are steadily rising in election years, and staying elevated thereafter, suggesting that welfare-linked spending can lead to chronic fiscal pressure, rather than one-time costs.

Chhattisgarh offers one of the sharpest examples, with its deficit rising from 1.0% of GSDP in the pre-election year (2022-23) to 5.3% in the election year. It is estimated to have stayed there in 2024-25. Maharashtras fiscal deficit rose by roughly 40 basis points (bps) after the Ladki Bahin scheme aimed at women was introduced. Odishas is estimated to have risen by 100 bps, and its 2025-26 budget pegs the fiscal deficit-to-GSDP ratio above 3%, compared with 1.7% in 2023-24.

The 15th Finance Commission had set a 3% limit for 2025-26, but several states have already overshot the target. Hence, that 3% ceiling could now become the floor, said the Emkay Global report. With Tamil Nadu, Kerala and West Bengal headed to polls next year, this upward drift is unlikely to ease: their fiscal deficits in recent years have been around the 3%-mark. However, Assam and West Bengal estimate their fiscal deficits to rise up to 5.75% and 4.02% in 2024-25, respectively.

Crowded commitments

Even outside election cycles, state finances are under pressure from a more structural source: the committed" expense needs such as salaries, pensions, interest payments and subsidies. According to a report by PRS Legislative Research, in 2023-24, states spent 62% of their revenues on such expenses. These obligations cannot be scaled down easily, and when they consume such a large share of revenue, development spending loses out. This squeeze is already showing up in headline numbers, with states recording a 0.4% revenue deficit in 2023-24, meaning they had to borrow simply to meet recurring expenses, the report said. For 2025-26, states have estimated about 50% of revenue receipts to go on these expenses.

This curtails the space available for capital expenditure, which is the kind of spending that can power longer-term growth. States capex amounted to just 2.7% of GSDP in 2023-24. "Consistent welfare expenditures cause debt to balloon, which further leads to increase in committed interest payments. States must boost capital expenditure, as a one-percentage-point increase in their own capex results in 80 bps of GDP growth," Jasrai said.

Also Read | Indian economy loses steam in September as more indicators turn red

Revenue gap

Meanwhile, goods and services tax (GST) has yet to become the revenue source it was expected to be. In the four years before it was launched in 2017, states earned an average of 2.8% of GSDP from the taxes that were later subsumed under GST, but this dropped to 2.6% in the GST era, the PRS Legislative Research report said. With states no longer getting compensated for any revenue loss since mid-2022, this gap has become more visible.

The Centre has also seen a decline in the share of revenue that comes from the taxes that got subsumed under GST in 2017, the report said. But the story of states is more worrying, as their fiscal space can be directly influenced by state GST (SGST) mop-ups. The trajectory since 2017 has been uneven. Some north-eastern states have benefited from GSTs destination-based structure, seeing an improvement in their tax-to-GSDP ratios, the report said. But several bigger statesincluding Punjab, Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Madhya Pradesh and Odishahave experienced a clear decline relative to the pre-GST years.

Also Read | What the Centres capex growth is really hiding

Capex status

The Centres capital spending has picked up well this year, clocking 5.8 trillion in April-September, about 40% higher year-on-year (though last years base was low, given muted expenditure during the general elections). But central investment, while important, has a limited growth multiplier when weighed against state-level capex, which typically delivers a stronger impulse because it feeds directly into local infrastructure, procurement and employment.

A review of capital spending by 23 states for H1 2025-26 shows several large states have increased capital investment, with Punjab, Gujarat and Madhya Pradesh each seeing over 30% growth. But this still points to slower-than-planned progress. For several of the largest state economiesincluding Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, Karnataka and West Bengalcapex utilization has been below that seen in the same period last year.

However, Jasrai noted that states tend to go slow on capex in the first half because they cannot avoid revenue expenditure, and they want to first see how much revenue they are able to earn. They can catch up in the second half, he added.
Mike Alfred had become convinced by 2021 that he was on to a great idea: building huge data centers for bitcoin mining in some of the loneliest spots in Texas.

The investor found kindred spirits at a bitcoin-focused data-center developer, now called IREN, and joined its board. They were among the few who saw locations like Childress, a tiny city in the Texas Panhandle with a population of 5,700, as ripe for massive infrastructure investment.

By the following year, the vision appeared flawed. During the crypto winter that culminated in the collapse of Sam Bankman-Frieds FTX exchange, IREN shares tumbled toward $1.

Now, the companys fortunes have reversedand Microsoft is coming to Childress. Earlier this month, the software giant signed a $9.7 billion cloud-services contract with IREN to expand its rural data-center site to process Microsofts workloads for artificial intelligence. The hardware is expected to be rolled out in phases through 2026.

IREN is among a handful of companies initially focused on bitcoin mining that have pivoted to AI while tech companies pursue one of the most expensive infrastructure build-outs in U.S. history. IRENs market value has swelled to more than $13 billion thanks to a more than 300% jump in its stock price this year.

Microsoft, Amazon.com, Google and other tech companies are spending tens of billions of dollars to build massive new facilities to house the thousands of power-hungry graphics-processing units required to train and run AI models.

They desperately need access to electricity. In many cases, bitcoin miners got there first and are eager to assist.

Miners have good reason to consider AI. They solve an increasingly complicated arithmetic problem to unlock bitcoin, but the difficulty has been increasing faster than bitcoin prices. Even with prices up from a year ago, mining profits have been declining.

You literally couldnt get hyperscalers interested in this six months ago," said Alfred, a hedge-fund investor who has focused on bitcoin since 2019. And now theyre banging on your door."

The shift to AI has been especially prevalent in Texas, where todays wildcatters are more interested in locking in electricity than discovering oil.

Cipher Mining signed a 15-year lease this month with Amazon Web Services for a site in West Texas. The company owns or operates part of five data centers for bitcoin mining but will add AI at two existing sites and pivot the 3.2 gigawatts of capacity it has in development to AI.

Google, meanwhile, will backstop part of a 10-year, $3 billion agreement with Fluidstack, which will be the cloud-computing operator at a different Cipher site in West Texas. Google will receive warrants for a roughly 5.4% equity stake in Cipher. It will also take an increased equity stake in bitcoin miner TeraWulf to support its pivot to AI at its site in New York.

Bitcoin miners swept into Texas en masse in 2021 after China banned the practice. They were enticed by cheap land and electricity, especially the abundance of renewable energy in West Texas that was sometimes stranded when transmission lines reached capacity.

Now, the miners are in a prime position because of the first-come, first-served nature of the electric grid. Prospective customers essentially line up at grid operators and transmission and distribution utilities to complete the engineering studies that ultimately lead to electric service.

In our world, it doesnt matter if you have infinite money; it does not matter if youre Google or Meta," said Scooter Womack, founder and managing partner of Vega Energy Advisors, which works with bitcoin miners, oil and gas operators and data centers.

Womack says bitcoin miners control some of the best electricity assets in Texas. Projects that havent secured electric capacity have to wait just like Joe or Sally or anybody else," he said.

It can take years to complete the studies and build out the electric infrastructure needed to accommodate AI-sized customers. In much of the country, wait times stretch into the 2030s.

The backlog of prospective projects waiting to plug into the power grid in Texas illustrates the shift. Nearly 70% of the customers seeking to connect to the grid were data centers as of September, according to the Electric Reliability Council of Texas, the states main grid operator. Just 12% were crypto miners.

But in early 2023, the crypto industry was the biggest customer seeking electricity service within Ercot, with 42% of the requests, compared with 31% for data centers, according to data from BNEF.

Nathalie Limandibhratha, U.S. power senior associate at BNEF, said mining sites that are already operational are likely to remain crypto-focused because switching to AI would be too costly. But many of the sites still in the planning stages are shifting their focus to AI.

For utilities and grid operators, that presents more challenges. Crypto miners can be flexible with their power needs, blinking off when electricity prices rise and putting less strain on the grid during times of peak system demand. Some participate in programs that pay them to shut down at those times.

Former Ercot independent market monitor Beth Garza of R Street Institute said she wont debate the merits of cryptocurrency, but from an electricity perspective, bitcoin miners are the best customers ever."

Basically they use electricity when there is surplus, when it is low-cost," Garza said. They are very disciplined and regimented about when they stop using it."

Cloud or AI data centers, by contrast, need access to large, stable amounts of power around the clock.

That puts more stress on the grid operator trying to manage ballooning demand. A new law in Texas could provide something of a stopgap, Garza said. It would require large new data centers to switch to backup power sources during times of high stress on the grid.

Write to Jennifer Hiller at jennifer.hiller@wsj.com
The Trump Administration will give Constellation Energy a $1 billion federal loan to restart the Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania that suffered a partial core meltdown in 1979.

Energy Secretary Chris Wright said Tuesday that restarting the plant will help bring down electricity prices and that the administration will act to bring more nuclear generation online.

We want to bring as much addition of reliable electricity onto the grid to stop these price rises," he said, adding that such moves will help reshore manufacturing in our country."

Constellation announced last year that it would restart the Three Mile Island site of the countrys worst nuclear power accident, to help generate electricity for Microsoft, which needs more power to fuel its artificial intelligence business.

The deal calls for Constellation to revive the plants undamaged reactor, which was too costly to run and closed in 2019. The power generated will be sold to Microsoft under a 20-year deal. The tech industry has a nearly insatiable demand for 24-hour-a-day power for AI data centers.

The Trump administration is a strong proponent of nuclear power and has vowed to quadruple U.S. nuclear generation by 2050. The plan involves restarting existing reactors and developing 10 large-scale new ones that will expand nuclear capacity from 100 gigawatts currently to 400 gigawatts.

The U.S. has added only three new big reactors since the 1990s. The most recent ones were years delayed and over budget. Years of flat U.S. power demand created a battle for market share, and nuclear plants had a tough time competing against many renewable projects and natural-gas-fired power plants that tapped into a cheap source of fuel from the U.S. shale boom.

Perceptions of nuclear power have evolved after Russias invasion of Ukraine and the ensuing energy crunch in Europe that stemmed from sanctions on Russian energy like natural gas. Countries including France, Japan and the U.K. are also looking to add nuclear power to their national grids.

Wright said Three Mile Island will add around 800 megawatts of power generation to the grid. Constellation has said it will pay about $1.6 billion to restart the plant in 2027.

The plant had two reactors, with one permanently shut down after the accident, while the second was shut down in 2019. It is the second reactor that Constellation aims to reboot.

The company has renamed the site the Crane Clean Energy Center. Under the Trump administration, Constellation said it has been possible to vastly expedite this restart without compromising quality or safety. Its a great example of how America first energy policies create jobs, growth and opportunities and make the grid more reliable."

The Nuclear Regulatory Commissions new focus is on less bureaucracy and more safety, Wright said. With the new generation of reactors thats even easier," he said.

Write to Costas Paris at costas.paris@wsj.com
The House voted 427-1 on Tuesday to force a public release of federal records tied to the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, putting new pressure on the Justice Department and President Trump.

The House voted after a discharge petition to bypass House GOP leadership amassed the requisite 218 signatures last week. If passed by the Senate and signed into law, the bill would compel the DOJ to release previously withheld documents.

Heres what to know.

What happens next with the Epstein files?

With the bill passing the House, it now goes to the Senate, which could vote as soon as later on Tuesday. Trump, despite calling the effort a Democratic hoax" to embarrass Republicans, has said he would sign the bill if it makes it to his desk.

What does the Epstein bill in the House do?

The Epstein Files Transparency Act would direct Attorney General Pam Bondi to make unclassified documents related to Epstein and his associate Ghislaine Maxwell publicly available within 30 days of being signed into law.

The bill requires a systematic disclosure of documents from the Justice Department including flight logs, internal memos, personal communications, metadata, immunity agreements, and more. It also stipulates that the released material must be fully searchable and downloadable. The bill allows redactions for victim-identifying information and materials depicting child sex abuse. An additional report to Congress outlining what was redacted is required within 15 days of publication.

If the bill becomes law, does the Justice Department have to comply?

The bill allows the attorney general to withhold or redact victims personal and medical information, anything that contains child pornography, information would jeopardize an active investigation and images of death or abuse. It requires the Justice Department to justify its redactions to Congress.

A department spokesman didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The Justice Department could cite as an ongoing investigation a review Trump ordered this week into Epsteins relationship with certain Democrats. Bondi tasked Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, with the assignment but shared no further details of what the probe would cover.

Obviously, it provides a lot of wiggle room for DOJ and numerous interpretive issues if it ever got to court," said Stanley Brand, a former House general counsel and defense attorney.

What sort of documents do proponents want to see?

A goal of proponents: the release of memos related to interviews that the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted with victims as part of Epsteins 2019 federal indictment. While the victims identities would be protected under the legislation, the names of other people could become public.

Some Republicans say this could damage the reputations of people who may have attended Epsteins parties but not engaged in legal wrongdoing. If you showed up at Epsteins rape island, I dont have that much sympathy if your name gets released," said Rep. Ro Khanna (D., Calif.), one of the sponsors of the bill.

What has already been released?

There have been multiple piecemeal disclosures over the years. This February, the Justice Department released a partial trove of documents, but this material contained few new revelations, drawing bipartisan criticism.

Then in September, lawyers for Jeffrey Epsteins estate turned over a copy of the financiers 50th birthday book containing letters from dozens of Epsteins then-associates. One of the letters bore Trumps signature. The book was assembled in 2003, several years before Epstein was first arrested in 2006. Both Trump and Epstein said that they subsequently had a falling-out. Trump has denied writing the letter.

Most recently, the House Oversight Committee posted a fresh batch of thousands more documents it received from the Epstein estate.

Numerous documents, deposition transcripts and other information about the investigation and Epsteins abuse have also been released by courts over the years in connection with civil litigation.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R., La.) has pointed to a continuing effort by the House Oversight Committee that has made public documents from both the Justice Department and the Epstein estate, saying that made legislation unnecessary.

Who led the push for the legislation?

The bill was introduced by Khanna and Rep. Thomas Massie (R., Ky.), who used a discharge petition to bypass opposition from Johnson to set up a floor vote. All House Democrats ultimately signed on, along with four House Republicans: Massie, Marjorie Taylor Greene of Georgia, Lauren Boebert of Colorado and Nancy Mace of South Carolina.

The only lawmaker to vote against the measure on Tuesday was Rep. Clay Higgins (R., La.).

What has the Justice Department said about these documents?

In a July memo, the Justice Department and FBI said there was no incriminating client list" of people who paid Epstein for trafficking. The agencies also said there was no credible evidence found that Epstein blackmailed prominent individuals as part of his actions." The memo concluded that further public disclosure wasnt warranted, citing victim privacy and court orders.

What precedent is there for Congresss action?

The John F. Kennedy Records Act of 1992 is the clearest legislative precedentCongress mandated a phased public release of documents related to Kennedys assassination and created similar protocols for withholding classified information. Most records were eventually released, though successive administrations used national-security waiver provisions to delay full disclosure. In 2017, Trump ordered the release of thousands of JFK documents and added to that this year, but not all documents have been released.

This explanatory article may be periodically updated.

Write to Sadie Gurman at sadie.gurman@wsj.com and Anvee Bhutani at anvee.bhutani@wsj.com
Mumbai: Cash-strapped PayMate has shut its Middle East operations and is scrambling to raise a fresh $20 million after a key investor failed to wire funds for over nine months, the companys top executive confirmed to Mint.

The development marks a sharp turn for the Visa-backed B2B payments firm. Earlier this year, the company told Mint it was actively expanding" across international markets. Instead, it is now dealing with unpaid salaries stretching up to nine months, senior exits and a stalled acquisition that was central to its growth ambitions.

This comes on the back of a long-delayed investment. London- and Middle East-focused Crimson Ventures, which had signed a definitive agreement with PayMate in March, is yet to transfer funds due to internal issues at their end", said founder and CEO Ajay Adiseshann.

Crisis deepens at PayMate

The Crimson Ventures funding delay is because the fund is facing internal issues at its end, which has stalled its ability to invest. But given the impact these delays are having on our operations, we cannot wait any longer," Adiseshann told Mint, adding that the company is now in discussions to close a new round by early December.

PayMate enables enterprises to automate business-to-business payments and manage commercial card-based transactions across their supply chains. The company operates eight subsidiaries in the Middle East, India, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, the US and Malaysia.

The funding no-show has pushed PayMate into its deepest operational stress yet. It has shut down its underperforming UAE businessone of its key geographies and biggest markets earlierand is now redirecting its focus to the Asia-Pacific region. This is the second major pivot after the company previously shifted its focus from domestic operations to expanding globally, given tighter regulations at home.

PayMate had withdrawn its 1,500 crore initial public offering (IPO) proposal in 2023 after the regulator returned its draft prospectus. While it still hopes to revive the listing plans in FY26, the current funding uncertainty and operational strain are likely to push timelines further.

The firm reported revenue from operations of $162 million in FY24, marginally lower than $163 million in FY23 after the Reserve Bank of Indias crackdown on intermediary-routed card payments. Its net loss widened to $5.7 million in FY24, from $4.4 million the year prior.

Since launching in 2006, PayMate has raised around $70 million from Visa, Lightbox, Mayfield Fund, Brand Capital and Recruit Strategic Partners. It has tie-ups with Visa, Mastercard and several banks across the geographies it operates in.

The now-delayed $30 million infusion from Crimson Ventures was expected to be the companys largest cheque in recent years. If the new $20 million round closes as expected, it will be PayMates first major capital raise since its aborted IPO attempt in 2022.

Salaries pending, exits rise

PayMates months-long liquidity crunch has severely hit employee payouts, with most staff not receiving full salaries for three to four months, Adiseshann confirmed.

Several mid- and senior-level executives have resigned during this period, including Rakesh Khanna, chief commercial officer (CCO) for the UAE business; Pooja Chauhan, vice president of HR; and Nanda Harish, the legal counsel, the company confirmed. Close to half the workforce has either quit or been laid off as the company rightsizes operations and pares costs.

In some cases, the salaries have not been paid in full since February  close to nine months  which has taken a toll on people and pushed many to leave," said a former employee, requesting anonymity.

Two other former employees Mint spoke to confirmed this. The ex-employees estimated that close to 50% of the workforce has exited in the last 8-10 months, with remuneration pending for most of them.

Also Read | UPI AutoPay woes hit subscription market; businesses turn to card payments

Adiseshann said the company expects to clear outstanding dues for current and former employees once the new funding round closes.

Mint on 15 July first reported that PayMate India has delayed salaries for several employees since April 2025 due to cash-flow issues on the back of delayed funding and accelerated investments in international markets.

Acquisition in limbo

The delayed funding has also stalled PayMates acquisition of Indonesian fintech DigiAsia, a deal the company views as critical to stabilising revenue.

Once this round closes, we will complete our DigiAsia acquisition. This will help us acquire customers, stabilise revenue and return to normal operations. We expect the acquisition to push us towards profitability," Adiseshann said.

Australia and New Zealand continue to perform well, he added, and Indonesia is expected to become a key market once the acquisition is completed.

Also Read | How you can rebuild your credit score after defaults and missed payments

PayMate and DigiAsia have aligned on a stock-swap structure, and DigiAsia is preparing for a delisting announced in September. Adiseshann claims that despite the delays, the acquisition remains on track.

Queries emailed to DigiAsia did not elicit a response at the time of publishing the story.

We expect a near-term revenue impact, but with the DigiAsia acquisition, we expect to reach FY25 revenue levels by the end of FY26, along with profitability," Adiseshann said.
Digital gold companies may ask the union government to approve their plans for self-regulation if the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) refuses to regulate the instrument, said a top executive at the India Bullion and Jewellery Association (IBJA), the apex body for all bullion and jewellery associations in India.

On 8 November, Sebi warned investors that digital gold was not under its ambit, clarifying that it did not fall under securities laws and was not classified as a commodity derivative. Following this, the association sent a letter to Sebi on 10 November, asking it to regulate digital gold.

The letter read, We have been approached by various digital gold companies. They have shown their willingness to be regulated either through Sebi or any other regulator as suggested by you." It added, We strongly feel that issuing caution is a welcome step, but issuing guidelines to regulate the same would help investors as well as digital gold companies."

The industry has long demanded regulation to weed out fraudulent players and offer customers a formal grievance-redressal mechanism, but with little success. If Sebi does not wish to regulate digital gold, the industry will create a self-regulatory organisation (SRO) and approach concerned government authorities for approval," said Surendra Mehta, national secretary at IBJA. We are interested in complete transparency," he added.

Fintech platforms offering digital gold saw a near threefold jump in user withdrawals after Sebis warning, Business Standard reported on 12 November. We are asking our clients to not get into digital gold. If they have taken small exposure, we are asking them to move away to a legitimate, Sebi-regulated gold product through a Sebi-registered broker," said Abhishek Kumar, founder and chief investment advisor at Sahaj Money, a financial planning and investment advisory firm.

Sebi did not respond to Mint's queries on the matter.

Also Read | Investors smell opportunity as mens grooming triggers a gold rush

Not optimistic

Digital gold companies have held several meetings on the matter over the past few days, according to two people familiar with the matter. The industry isnt optimistic about Sebi's response to the letter, they added. The circular was clear that Sebi does not want to regulate digital gold," one of these people said, adding, Digital gold companies may approach the ministry of corporate affairs or the ministry of finance for help on regulation."

Sidharth Kumar, senior associate at BTG Advaya, a disputes and transactional law firm, said, Digital gold companies should regulate themselves through an SRO, similar to the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI). Regulation by Sebi or any regulator could increase compliance costs for the platforms and may diminish the arbitrage between physical and digital gold."

He added, Soft regulations by SRO could help keep a watch and investors could approach the Central Consumer Protection Authority or consumer courts as consumers of digital gold platforms."

Digital gold is a way to invest in gold electronically by buying fractions of physical gold, which is stored on your behalf in secure, insured vaults. It offers convenience and low entry points, allowing you to invest small amounts and track its value in real-time. It operates differently from regulated gold instruments such as gold ETFs.

Data from the National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) shows the number of UPI-based digital gold purchases has surged in 2025, rising to 115.95 million in October from 50.93 million in January, when NPCI first started sharing this data. In value terms, UPI purchases trebled to 2,290.4 crore over the same period. According to management consulting firm Technopak Advisors, Indias digital gold holdings stood at 25 tonnes in FY25 and is estimated to double by FY30.

Also Read | RBIs new gold loan norms force lenders to wind down repledged portfolios

Regulatory vacuum

The biggest concern with digital gold is that it operates in a regulatory vacuum, overseen neither by Sebi nor the Reserve Bank of India. If a platform or distributor were to face a liquidity crisis or collapse altogether, buyers would have limited recourse.

The lack of oversight also means there is no formal verification of the physical gold backing users holdings, including checks on purity, quantity or vault management. While established players such as MMTC-PAMP maintain full physical backing for their digital gold and undergo regular independent audits, the same level of assurance may not exist for smaller providers, increasing counterparty risk.

Pricing is another challenge. Rates vary across platforms owing to differences in markups, transaction charges, payment gateway fees, and other costs. These typically amount to around 2-3% of the price, in addition to the 3% GST that applies to gold purchases.

The government has the power to classify digital gold as a security by issuing a notification under the Securities Contracts (Regulation) Act, 1956 (SCRA), which allows it to declare any instrument or class of instruments as a security. If the government were to do this, it would allow Sebi to regulate the issuance, trading, and custody of digital gold under the SCRA.

An example of how products linked to gold can be brought under formal regulation is the Electronic Gold Receipts (EGR) framework. Until 2021, gold trading in India lacked a uniform, transparent, exchange-based mechanism. To address this, the government amended the SCRA to classify EGRs as securities. This allowed Sebi to design and implement a full regulatory framework for EGRs, detailing standards for vault managers, the process of converting physical gold into EGRs, trading and settlement rules, and investor-protection mechanisms.

Previous calls ignored

Before this, the most recent attempt at securing regulations for digital gold was in 2021, after the National Stock Exchange (NSE) instructed its members, including stockbrokers, to stop offering digital gold on their platforms. The move followed Sebis observation that certain brokers were facilitating digital gold trades for their clients.

In response, digital gold providers issued public statements urging Sebi to establish a regulatory framework for the product and to contain speculation that digital gold was being banned. Digital gold provider Augmont said on 11 September 2021, Sebis involvement as a regulator would enhance investor confidence in this asset class. Overall participation will increase as customers will be allowed to buy gold as a digital asset." Sebi, however, did not budge from its stance.
New Delhi: Indias electric two-wheeler upstarts are beginning to look more like their legacy rivalsat least on profitability. EV startups Ola Electric and Ather Energy are now reporting gross margins that are inching close to the levels of internal-combustion engine (ICE) leaders like TVS Motor Company, Hero MotoCorp, and Bajaj Auto, even as the legacy firms work to improve margins in their own EV portfolios.

During their latest quarterly earnings calls, both Ola and Ather highlighted their improving unit economics, with gross margins close to the levels of the ICE manufacturers. However, the operating margin picture still differs sharply.

On gross margins, Ola Electric closed the JulySeptember quarter with 30.7% gross margins, an expansion of more than 11 percentage points from a year earlier. Ather Energys gross margins also roseup three percentage points to 22%. These figures are now comparable to the 2934% gross margins typically reported by Hero, TVS, and Bajaj.

But on operating margins, Ather posted a 10% Ebitda margin in July-September, and Ola Electric reported its first positive operating margin of 0.3% in the same quarter, compared to the 1418% margins of the legacy companies. Ola said it expects 5% Ebitda margin and 40% gross margins in JanuaryMarch.

Also Read | Ather Energy is racing ahead while still bleeding cash

Gross margin captures product-level profitability, while Ebitda margin reflects the organisations profitability after operating costs but before depreciation, interest and taxes.

The differing trajectories reflect structural advantages for new-age players, according to experts.

New-age companies are working with ground-up EV platforms rather than adapting petrol architecturesthis removes multi-powertrain overheads and yields a structurally leaner cost base," explained Harshvardhan Sharma, group head at Nomura Research Institute.

While legacy players typically carry fixed ICE-related costs across tooling, compliance and multi-SKU supply chains, EVs still form only a small share of their overall volumes, often in the low single digits, which inevitably delays margin expansion," he said.

Sharma added that new-age EV makers benefit from tightly focused product platforms, which allow faster scale gains on batteries, frames, software, and power electronicsalongside growing software-led monetisation.

Also Read | Bhavish Aggarwal pledges more Ola shares as stock loses charge

Taken together, these factors explain why some early EV-focused OEMs are showing faster Ebitda recovery, while legacy players are likely to see a more gradual trajectory as their EV volumes scale and their cost stacks realign," he said.

Numbers play

The legacy players are not upfront about the profitability and margins of their electric portfolio, unlike the new-age companies.

While Bajaj Auto told investors that three of four of its electric two-wheeler models are close to achieving breakeven, TVS and Hero MotoCorp told investors they are moving closer to profitability, but did not reveal the exact numbers.

Ather Energy chief executive Tarun Mehta told investors during an analyst call on 11 November that the Athers numbers are clean" without mixing with incentives or cost structures of other businesses.

I think the EV business should be able to command as much or even a little better gross margin than the ICE portfolios could, because of the ability to upsell a lot of things with EVs, particularly around the software and the accessory front," Mehta said during the call.

Earlier, on 6 November, Ola Electric founder Bhavish Aggarwal said during the firms earnings call that competitors were buying market share" without considering unit economics and profitability.

We don't mind a little bit of market share loss to other guys who are actually buying market share and it's not that their structural business model delivers them higher market share," he told investors and analysts. Whereas our business model now, our product leadership is all structural. The gross margin reflects that and our operating margin also now reflects that."

Traditional companies, meanwhile, said they are happy with the progress of their electric portfolio, but did not reveal any numbers.

Also Read | Indias clean car push hits roadblock as debate over super credits intensifies

In principle, a new category you look at overall, are we gaining total volume because we have to invest somewhere and the results will come maybe a couple of years later, two years later, three years later," K.N. Radhakrishnan, director and chief executive at TVS Motor Company, said during an analyst call on 28 October. So, EV is going through that journey, but we are extremely happy on the EV journey so far because both two-wheelers and three-wheelers are doing well."

Bajaj Auto told investors that the rising share of three wheelers in its EV sales helped in raising the profitability of its electric business. According to Rakesh Sharma, executive director at Bajaj Auto, the electric operating profit margin was in double digits led by three wheelers.

It (EV positive margins) is coming out of a mix of a growing proportion of the electric three-wheelers plus better unit economics on the Chetak models," Dinesh Thapar, chief financial officer at Bajaj Auto, said in the company's earnings call on 8 November. If I just look back in time, same time last year, on the three of our lead models on Chetak, we would have been bleeding Ebitda. As I look at the current moment, we are nearly Ebitda neutral on all of them."

Chetak is Bajaj Autos electric scooter brand.

Meanwhile, Hero Motocorp, the countrys largest two-wheeler manufacturer, stated in its earnings call that the company wants to focus on building the electric brand right now.

We will continue to leverage benefits like the PLI (production-linked incentive), in order to bring the EV business overall into a more positive roadmap," Kausalya Nandakumar, chief business officer of the companys emerging mobility business unit, said during an earnings call on 14 November.

Having said that, the current focus for Vida and Hero MotoCorp continues to be focused on bringing new products into the market as well as building the brand so that we can drive customer adoption in the EV segment," he added. Vida is Hero MotoCorps electric scooter brand.
For the first time, an Indian arms manufacturer, SSS Defence, is showcasing its indigenously developed equipment at Milipol Paris 2025, the international exhibition for homeland security and safety.

The Bengaluru-based firm, established in 2017, made its debut at the Milipol fair, which is running from 18 to 25 November in the French capital.

Proud to be the first #BorninBharat infantry systems company displaying our fully indigenous systems in a premier foreign military & law enforcement expo. We signify the success of #MakeInIndia and also its potential for defence exports into global markets, SSS Defence CEO Vivek Krishnan said earlier.

Also Read | Trump wants allies to spend more on defence and Takaichis Japan seems ready

SSS Defences core mission is to advance Indias domestic manufacturing capabilities by developing gear designed to meet the practical operational requirements of the armed forces and law enforcement agencies.

Product range The company offers a comprehensive array of products, including assault rifles, pistols, and sub-machine guns, in addition to sniper rifles. It is also reportedly aiming to develop a remote-controlled weapon station.

SSS Defences sniper rifles draw particular attention. These are available in both 7.6251 mm NATO and .338 Lapua Magnum calibres, and are built for exceptional long-distance accuracy. The .338 variant, considered a top-tier calibre, is capable of engaging targets at approximately 1.5 km, according to a report by The Week magazine.

We got an arms and ammunition licence in 2017 and wanted to build everything in India, said Dinesh Shivanna, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of the company, in an interview with The Week.

In case of a conflict, there wouldnt be any supply chain crisis, he added.

If it is completely manufactured in India, one can deal with any situation and scale up the production without depending on anyone outside the country, he said.

Also Read | Goodluck India to invest 400 cr into artillery shells amid trade uncertainties

The company has already gained traction on the international stage. The Print reported in September that SSS Defence secured supplementary orders for its .338 Lapua Magnum calibre sniper rifle from Indias friendly nation, following positive user experience with the weapon. Furthermore, the company was awarded a separate $30 million contract to supply ammunition of a different calibre to the same country.
The Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) is weighing a shift that could significantly lower costs for foreign portfolio investors (FPIs)allowing them to settle all their equity trades on a net basis at the end of each day.

We are examining whether netting of settlements for trades executed on a single day can be permitted, chairperson Tuhin Kanta Pandey said at the Goldman Sachs 14th India CIO Conference 2025 on Wednesday, adding that the move would ease operations and reduce costs for FPIs at a time when overseas outflows have accelerated.

At present, FPIs must settle every buy and sell order separatelyeven when trading the same stock during the dayforcing them to fund each purchase fully and deliver shares for each sale that increases funding needs and transaction costs.

Also Read | Digital gold companies may approach govt if Sebi declines calls for regulation

The proposed shift away from this gross-settlement system will remove a major friction point for large global investors and help India attract more institutional flows.

India has witnessed a surge in FPI outflows, with foreign investors having pulled out over 1.4 trillion from the markets since the start of the year, against a net inflow of 4.27 billion in 2024, according to data from the National Securities Depository Ltd.

Digitisation to cut registration time to days The proposed change is part of a wider set of reforms aimed at creating a low-friction environment for foreign investors. Pandey said Sebi is moving towards end-to-end digitization of the FPI registration process, using digital signatures to make onboarding paperless and shorten approval timelines from months to days.

To enhance service quality, a second registration platform is being built by the Central Depository Services Ltd, breaking the existing single-platform structure.

Pandey said Sebi may also allow Single Window Automatic & Generalized Access for Trusted Foreign Investors (SWAGAT-FI), foreign investors under the new and eased FPI framework, to invest in India through other FEMA (Foreign Exchange Management Act) prescribed routes without additional compliances. A key feature of SWAGAT is the option for investors to use a single demat account for all securities, whether acquired as an FPI or a foreign venture capital investor.

We are engaged with the RBI (Reserve Bank of India) and the ministry of finance to take forward these initiatives, said the chairperson.

Despite rising domestic participation, Pandey said FPIs remain central to Indias capital markets. As of September 2025, FPIs' assets held by custodians on their were at $876 billion, with foreign investors holding around 17% of listed Indian companies, he said.

Sebi has implemented several measures over the last few years to address FPIs' concerns. These include a revamped, faster registration module, a light-touch regulatory regime for FPIs investing only in government securities, an expanded anchor investor framework in initial public offerings, and a comprehensive overhaul of the block-window framework to deepen liquidity for large institutional trades.
There has been an initial public offering (IPO) rush in the Indian equity market, and the numbers reflect it. In the first seven months of FY26, 72 companies went public and raised around 105,325 crore, according to Prime Database.

Most of these were offer-for-sale issues, where existing investors pared their holdings. Only a handful came with fresh issuances aimed at funding expansion, reducing debt, and future growth.

Among the companies that went public recently, Belrise Industries drew interest after raising 2,150 crore in May. A major portion of the proceeds ( 1,618 crore) was earmarked for repaying debt, signalling a balance-sheet reset as it entered the listed space.

The stock was listed at 100, a 11.1% premium to its IPO price of 90 on 28 May 2025, and has since increased by 60% to 160.

The rise has been supported by its valuation gap compared to peers, ongoing capacity expansion, and the company's guidance to double revenue by FY27.

Higher content-per-vehicle and strong financial growth have also shaped the sentiment. But, even after the recent move, Belrise continues to trade at a discount to peers, which keeps the debate open on whether the stock still offers room for further re-rating.

To gain a better understanding, let's examine Belrise's business model, financial performance, and how its valuation compares to that of its competitors, such as Minda Corp., Uno Minda and Endurance Tech.

A powertrain agnostic business model

Belrise manufactures safety-critical systems and engineering solutions for two-wheelers (2W), three-wheelers (3W), four-wheelers (4W), as well as commercial and agricultural vehicles.

Its products are suitable for both electric and internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles, and this flexibility positions the company favorably to adapt to shifts in the industry.

Belrise operates through two main business areas: manufacturing, which contributed 79.5% of revenue (as of FY25), and a non-core trading business that accounted for the remaining 20.5%.

The manufacturing segment is further categorised into four verticals, with the sheet metal division (covering chassis and exhaust systems) remaining the dominant contributor, accounting for 75.5% of revenue.

Belrise's market leadership in precision sheet-metal automotive components, backed by a 24% revenue share in India's 2W metal components segment, remains a core competitive strength. With its market leadership, the company is well-positioned in the 2W metal products market, which is projected to grow at a CAGR of 11-13% over the next five years, until FY30.

The other divisions, including the plastic and polymer segment (2.5%), suspension (0.5%), and e-mobility components such as motors and chargers, remain relatively small contributors.

In FY25, 2W and 3W (combined) were the largest revenue drivers, accounting for 67% of revenue, followed by 4W commercial (6%) and passenger vehicles (3%), among others. Belrise serves over 31 global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), supported by long-standing relationships built over the years.

Its key OEM partners include Bajaj Auto (15 years), Honda Motorcycle (12 years), Royal Enfield (14 years), Hero Motocorp (6 years), Tata Motors, and Jaguar Land Rover. However, the business remains concentrated, with the top 10 clients accounting for 63.8% of revenue as of December 2024. Updated figures are not yet available.

How is Belrise planning its next phase of growth?

That said, the company aims to gradually ease this concentration by strengthening its presence in the 4W segment. To support this diversification, Belrise plans to double its revenue from the 4W segments over the next two and a half years. This would help diversify the company's revenue mix, both by vehicle category and by customer exposure.

As part of its diversification strategy, Belrise acquired H-One in 2024, a subsidiary of a Japanese listed company. H-One specialises in high-tensile steel fabrication, stamping, and complex tool design. The acquisition directly supports Belrise's 4W expansion by adding three new Japanese 4W OEMs and deepening its penetration with two existing 2W OEMs.

Belrise plans to utilise H-One to expand its presence among Japanese OEMs. The addition has already increased the 4W content per vehicle by 60% to around 15,000, and plans to scale to 45,000. Revenue from H-One stood at 60 crore in Q2 FY26, and management believes this can scale to about 450 crore over the next two years without major capex.

Rising content per vehicle and premiumisation

Belrise also aims to improve the 2W content per vehicle from 12,500 currently to 17,300 per vehicle over the next 1824 months. The introduction of new components, such as steering columns ( 1,500 per vehicle), filters ( 800), and brakes ( 2,500), will support this expansion.

Belrise is also set to benefit from the rising share of premium motorcycles. The management said a premium 2W chassis carries a kit value of almost 5,500, nearly twice that of an economy model ( 2,500). This trend, supported by in-house products such as filters, brakes, and new steering columns, is expected to help the company enhance kit value and profitability.

At the same time, Belrise is moving up the value chain from a Tier-1 component supplier to a Tier-0.5 supplier, focusing more on sub-systems and full-system assemblies. This transition enables the company to become part of the customer's development cycle, thereby increasing both business stickiness and content value per vehicle.

Diversification into defence and renewables

Beyond the automotive sector, Belrise has leveraged its engineering expertise to expand into adjacent industries, including defence and renewables. It has begun supplying solar structures to a global solar tracker manufacturer, with initial orders for North America and discussions underway for India and Europe. In the defence and aerospace vertical, it has secured additional orders for an Indian Defence OEM's armoured vehicle programme, marking indirect exports.

To meet rising demand, Belrise plans to invest 800 crore over the next two years, of which 260 crore has already been deployed in the first half of FY26. Several new facilities have come online or are nearing production start. A plant in Chennai began operations in Q1 FY26, while facilities in Pune and Bhiwadi went live in Q2 FY26.

Another plant in Chennai is expected to start production in Q3 FY26. This Chennai facility is dedicated to supplying chassis systems and BIW parts for an EV platform of a leading 2W OEM. In addition, the company has secured multiple new orders from OEMs, which are expected to accelerate revenue growth.

What the Numbers Say About Belrise

Belrise's revenue has grown at a CAGR of 15% over the last three years, rising from 5,397 crore in FY22 to 8,291 crore in FY25. Within this, manufacturing revenue increased at a slower 10% CAGR to 6,594 crore, while the trading business grew much faster at a 50% CAGR, reaching 1,697 crore in FY25.

The momentum continued in the first half of FY26. Revenue increased 20% year-on-year to 4,615 crore, supported by a 22% rise in manufacturing revenue and an 11% increase in trading. Within the mix, ICE revenue grew 16%, powertrain (+17%), and by vehicle category, 2W+3W revenue rose 12%, 4W passenger (+26%), and 4W commercial (+34%).

Brokerage Sunidhi Securities noted that the company delivered a performance that exceeded expectations.

The company's Ebitda margin stands around 12-13% (comparable to peers), primarily due to the underutilization of new capacity and a lower 6% margin in the trading business. Management is evaluating whether to hive off this non-core segment to support a margin recovery. In line with revenue trends, profit after tax grew at an 11% CAGR, reaching 355 crore in FY25, and the same surged by 69% year-on-year to 245 crore in H1 FY26, helped by a 25% reduction in interest costs to 95 crore.

Return ratios remain healthy, with a return on average capital employed of 15% and a return on average equity of 14%. The net debt-to-equity ratio inched up to 1x, although the company has since reduced this by repaying part of its borrowings using proceeds from the IPO.

Also Read | Why FIIs are buying these three companies even as domestic investors exit

Can Belrise close the valuation discount?

At 161 per share, Belrise is trading at a price-to-earnings multiple of 31.6 times, which is a discount to its peers: Uno Minda (68.6), Endurance Tech (43.3), and Minda Corp (54.3).

Belrise appears positioned to sustain its growth momentum driven by rising content per vehicle, a gradual shift toward premiumization, and its entry into the defence and 4W verticals, as per brokerage Phillip Capital.

Other brokerages share a positive view on the company, with Investec valuing it at 185, LKP Research at 192, and Sunidhi Securities at 197.

Profitability, too, is likely to improve at a quicker pace as the mix evolves and operating leverage kicks in. If these trends materialise as anticipated, return ratios are expected to strengthen, and the valuation discount to peers is likely to narrow over time.

Sector slowdown, failure to diversify customer concentration, including execution delays, are key risks to watch.

For more such analysis read Profit Pulse

Madhvendra has over seven years of experience in equity markets and writes detailed research articles on listed Indian companies, sectoral trends, and macroeconomic developments.

The writer does not hold the stocks discussed in this article.

The purpose of this article is only to share interesting charts, data points, and thought-provoking opinions. It is NOT a recommendation. If you wish to consider an investment, you are strongly advised to consult your advisor. This article is strictly for educational purposes only.
Mutual fund investors appear to be on a portfolio diversification drive. Data from the Association of Mutual Funds in India (AMFI) shows that investors have been opting for flexi-cap and mid-cap funds in an attempt to diversify their portfolios, which were previously dominated by large-cap and small-cap mutual funds.

The AMFI data shows that while flexi-cap mutual funds topped the charts, where inflows increased from 7,029 crore in September this year to 8,929 crore in October, the inflows in midcap mutual funds were 3,807 crore, the second highest amongst all equity funds.

The data shows a fall of close to 19 per cent in net inflows in equity mutual funds. The biggest losers in equity mutual funds have been large-cap and small-cap funds, with investors preferring to invest their money in flexi-cap and mid-cap mutual funds instead.

Also Read | Mutual funds: Why you should step up your SIPs to achieve financial goals

Mid-cap funds find favour While flexi-cap mutual funds continue to dominate, its the mid-cap mutual fund category that is gaining interest. Since midcaps are also part of the flexi cap portfolio, market analysts believe that this category stands out for its performance.

For example, experts point out that in the last three years, Nippon India Growth Midcap Fund has given a 25% return, at a time when most equity funds are lagging.

In the same period, UTI Midcap Fund and DSP Midcap Fund have clocked in 21% and 18% returns, respectively.

In the last three years, of the 35 mid-cap funds across AMCs, just five mid-cap funds have given less than 20% returns, with the lowest still above 15%, reflecting the solid performance of the mid-cap fund category, market experts highlighted.

The Nippon India Growth Mid Cap Fund, launched over 30 years ago, has delivered a CAGR of 22% since its inception. The fund invests in companies that deliver above-average growth and have the potential to generate substantial returns over time.

The reason for the success of the fund could be a well-defined investment process, stringent risk management and in-depth research.

Mid-cap funds are ideal for long-term investments, and since they prioritise capital appreciation, investors get a steady increase in the value of their investments over time. Besides, mid-cap funds offer diversification across sectors, which helps mitigate risk. Additionally, the evolving market situation indicated investing in top mid-cap funds could be an ideal strategy at this juncture.

"FIIs turning buyers in India is a high probability scenario now. FIIs preference will be for large caps and high-quality mid-caps with good growth potential. The ideal investment strategy would be to play this potential trend by investing in top mid-cap funds," said VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Investments.
Nvidia stock: As concerns over bets on artificial intelligence (AI) stocks heighten, Nvidia's earnings could emerge as a make-or-break moment for Wall Street investors. Nvidia  the world's most valuable company  will report its quarterly earnings after the bell on Wednesday.

The earnings come amid bubble fears in AI and the selling of Nvidia stock by several large investors, raising fears of an imminent selloff in US stocks.

Tech billionaire Peter Thiel's hedge fund sold its entire stake in Nvidia in the third quarter, as has SoftBank CEO Masayoshi Son, although he has ploughed those returns into a massive bet on OpenAI.

These doubts have pushed Nvidia stock down 10% so far in November, after a 1,200% surge in the past three years, and a 31% rally in 2025 so far.

What to expect from Nvidia earnings? Despite the concerns of an AI bubble, demand for Nvidia's chips remains strong as several mega-caps rely on the company amid a boost in their AI spending. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang last month said that the company has $500 billion in bookings for its advanced chips through 2026.

Viram Shah, Founder & CEO, Vested Finance, said Nvidias upcoming earnings are widely anticipated as a key gauge of how strong the AI wave remains across the tech sector.

Nvidia is likely to report a more than 56% jump in its fiscal August-October quarter revenue to $54.92 billion, according to data compiled by LSEG, stated a Reuters report.

Ross Maxwell, Global Strategy Lead at VT Markets, said that estimates suggest revenue and EPS will remain strong. However, the easy growth phase may be behind them. "Investors would be looking to see whether Nvidia can sustain high margins, maintain strong AI-capex demand, and avoid any export or China-related headwinds," he added.

Also Read | Nvidia results and delayed jobs data set up critical test for Wall Street

Although Nvidia's growth could still be strong, it will be relatively modest compared to recent earnings, as per Maxwell.

China remains another overhang for the company as it cannot ship its most advanced chips there under US export curbs. Huang has said there are "no active discussions" on selling Blackwell in the market despite speculation of a possible deal for a scaled-down version, as per Reuters.

"There are also supply-side constraints and concentration of revenue from the top few customers. Thus, we have seen some sell-off in recent days, especially by large institutional investors, which may be a short-term phenomenon," Shah said.

Nvidia stock: How to trade? Analysts believe investors can consider booking partial profits and then take a call on their stock exposure once the earnings are out.

"Whilst a beat could trigger some upside, the market will be much more sensitive to a miss, or even softer guidance, which presents more downside risk for a potential pullback," said Maxwell.

He advised investors to consider reducing large directional exposure or hedging ahead of the print, and then reassessing once the numbers and commentary are out. If the long-term view is still bullish, use any post-earnings dip as a potential entry rather than buying just ahead of the earnings event.

Market expert Mahesh Ojha, while expecting a good set of earnings from Nvidia, said that a significant correction in Nvidia stock can be a buying opportunity for long-term investors. He advised investors to take a fresh position in the stock only after Nvidia's earnings today.

From a short-to-medium-term perspective, Ojha sees Nvidia stock hitting $188-196, and then $202. However, he advised keeping a stop loss at $168.
Tenneco Clean Air India share price Highlights: Tenneco Clean Air India made a strong stock market debut, listed at 27.20% premium over the IPO price.

Tenneco Clean Air India share price opened at 505 on the NSE and 498 on BSE. However, the stock fell 2% during the intraday session on NSE.

The stocks listing performance was largely in line with the grey market predictions. The IPOs grey market premium (GMP) of about 104 per share suggested a likely debut price of around 501, implying an upside of roughly 26.20% over the issue price.

Tenneco Clean Air India IPO details

The IPO was open for subscription from November 12 to 14, with allotments confirmed on November 17. The 3,600-crore offer was entirely an offer for sale, involving 9.07 crore shares. The price band was set at 378 397 per share, and the minimum lot for retail investors was 37 shares, requiring an investment of 14,689.

The IPO drew significant demand, especially from qualified institutional buyers and non-institutional investors, leading to an overall subscription of 61.79 times on the final day.

Qualified institutional buyers led the subscription surge, bidding 174.78 times their allotted quota. Non-institutional investors also showed strong demand with a 42 subscription. Retail participation was relatively softer, with their category subscribed 5.37 times, according to exchange data.

JM Financial Ltd. was the book-running lead manager, while MUFG Intime India Pvt. Ltd. handled registrar duties. Since the issue was purely an offer for sale, all proceeds will go to the selling shareholders, not the company.
Waaree Energies share price: Shares of renewable energy firm Waaree Energies fell over 5% to 3,089 on Wednesday after the company said that some officials from the Income Tax (I-T) Department visited their offices and facilities to undertake an investigation.

In an exchange filing on Tuesday, Waaree Energies said, We hereby inform that today certain officials of the Income Tax Department visited some of the Companys offices and its facilities in India for conducting investigation under the Income Tax Act, 1961. The proceedings are underway and the Company is extending its full co-operation to the officials. The company further informed that the proceedings are ongoing and that it is fully cooperating with the authorities involved."

Also Read | Adani Group stocks in focus after GQG Partners raises stake via block deals

As per media reports, the Income Tax departments probe involved nearly 25 teams from Mumbai, Chikhli, and Vapi, beginning at the companys 5.4 GW solar cell gigafactory in Chikhli.

The solar energy solutions provider's stock has been under pressure in the near term. Waaree Energies share price has fallen nearly 2% in the past five trading sessions and over 6% in a month. However, the solar energy stock has given 12% returns in six months and 13.34% returns in a year.

Waaree Energies Q2 results 2025 The decline in stock comes despite Waaree Energies posting a strong performance in Q2, with net profit soaring 130% year-on-year to 871 crore, compared to 375.66 crore in the same period last year. The companys PAT margin for the quarter came in at 14.10%.

Total income grew 69.96% YoY to 6,226.54 crore, up from 3,663.47 crore in Q2 FY25. EBITDA jumped 155.29% YoY to 1,567.30 crore, with margins strengthening to 25.17% versus 16.76% a year ago.

The company produced 2.64 GW during the quarter, reflecting strong operational momentum. For H1 FY26, total income increased 51.17% to 10,823.72 crore, while EBITDA rose 118.19% to 2,735.97 crore.

The company announced an order book of nearly 24 GW, worth about 47,000 crore. On October 16, 2025, the board also approved an interim dividend of 2 per share.
Groucho Marx quipped that he wouldnt want to belong to any club that would accept him as a member. On Wall Street, bank bosses have often declined to borrow money from a facility that would be happy to lend to them.

And with a plethora of risks bubbling up in stock, bond and cryptocurrency markets, and the level of overall bank reserves hovering near the lowest in four years, the Federal Reserve wants to see that change.

The central banks Standing Repo Facility (SFR) is a four-year-old tool in the Feds shed designed to allow banks access to enough cheap, available cash so that the broader financial system doesnt run dry when lenders grow cautious.

Banks havent always been keen on using it, however, as if seeking access might suggest they are under financial stress. Last month U.S. lenders borrowed $110 billion from the SFR, the most since its 2021 introduction, but that tally still pales in comparison to the $3 trillion in repo transactions U.S. dealers make each day.

Although the SRF has seen more frequent usage of late, a notable amount of repo transactions still have taken place in the market at rates above the SRF minimum bid rate," said Roberto Perli, who runs the System Open Market Account for the New York Fed, earlier this month.

It has become enough of a concern that his boss, New York Fed President John Williams, met with several Wall Street banks at a Treasury market event in New York last week to try to shed that stigma as money market and repo borrowing rates ticked higher.

Based on recent sustained repo market pressures and other growing signs of reserves moving from abundant to ample, I expect that it will not be long before we reach ample reserves," Williams told the event.

The difference between abundant and ample is a key factor in the markets ability to absorb shocks; bank reserves play a key role in both buffering their own balance sheets from unwanted risks but also keeping the broader financial system awash with liquidity.

That is proving more challenging at the moment, given that the Feds sale of bonds from its balance sheet, also known as quantitative tightening, has left overall bank reserves at around $2.85 trillion, the lowest in four years.

U.S. commercial banks may also be hoarding liquidity, and not lending in out in the repo market, to avoid recognizing around $400 billion in unrealized securities losses, according to Bank of America data.

Bank liquidity isnt a critical concern at the moment; the tally is still more than double the $1.4 trillion level that stoked a repo market meltdown in the autumn of 2019. But with a series of risks building in other markets, such as fiscal risks in Japan and the United Kingdom, the potential for disruption remains acute. Crypto markets arent performing terribly well, either, and private credit markets in the U.S. are also a growing concern.

However, while overall risks are on the rise, and bank reserves are thin, investors likely dont need to worry about the kind of near-term funding crisis, stoked by the failure of Silicon Valley Bank, that upended markets in the spring of 2023.

Thats largely because the Feds decision to end its quantitative tightening in December, a move which could ultimately lead to the re-expansion of its $6.6 trillion balance sheet, is set to provide relief.

Over time, Lawrence Gillum, chief fixed income strategist at LPL Financial, thinks that will reintroduce liquidity into the system in ways that support risk assets."

With the conclusion of QT in sightwithout a repeat of 2019s spike in repo ratesan immediate risk to funding markets has been taken off the table," he said.

Its also being done quietly. And thats exactly how Wall Street wants it.

Write to Martin Baccardax at martin.baccardax@barrons.com
The United States is gradually losing its charm as a foreign education destination for international students. It is not a coincidence but a natural outcome of the series of anti-immigration steps taken by the Donald Trump administration, leading to an overall sentiment growing against immigrants.

The Open Doors 2025 Report recently indicated that 277,118 students started their studies at US colleges and universities in Fall 2024, which is a 7.2 per cent drop from the previous year's data. It is an unprecedented fall, the report acknowledges. Notably, the number of new undergraduates rose by 5% whereas the number of new graduate students dropped by 15%, the report noted.

And this may just be a new beginning. With three more years to go before Donald Trump's era comes to an end in the US, the anti-immigration sentiment is nowhere close to closure. Given all this, where can Indian students go for their higher education besides America?

With the American dream dying, students can explore these countries to study abroad I. France: This Western European country is doubling down on students coming from India. With around 10,000 Indian students studying in France, France is aiming for this number to reach 30,000 by 2030.

After PM Narendra Modi's visit to France in July 2023, France made a strong push for Indian students in France, rolling out major initiatives to welcome students from India.

II. New Zealand: Enrolments from India rose 34 per cent between January and August 2024 to 10,640 in 2024, Education New Zealand (ENZ) data reveals.

Indian students now comprise around 11 percent of all international university enrolments in the island nation, second highest afterthe Chinese.

Country 2022 2024 Russia 19,784 31,444 New Zealand 1,605 7,297 France 6,406 8,536 Germany 20,684 34,702

Source: Parliamentary questions

III. Russia: The number of students studying in Russia has also seen a big jump lately. Indian students pursuing studies in Russia rose in 2024 by 34 per cent compared to 2023, the ministry said. Cost-wise, too, it is quite economical.

Russian colleges are quite popular for offering medical education to Indian students, with some being able to pursue medicine for as low as 3.5 lakh - 4 lakh a year at a medical school based there.

IV. Germany: Germany has also seen a major jump in international students from India, with the number rising around 67% in two years ending 2024 (see the table above). There are some universities which offer almost nil tuition fee for engineering and science courses, which is a huge draw for Indian students.
Seven Maoists were killed, and 50 others were arrested, in Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, a day after their top commander Madvi Hidma's death.

The police said that 7 Maoists were killed in an exchange of fire at Maredumilli, of which three were women.

One person was identified as Meturi Jokha Rao alias Shankar, a native of Srikakulam. He was in-charge (ACM) for Andhra Odisha Border (AOB) and specialised in technical things, arms manufacturing, communication, AP Intelligence ADG Mahesh Chandra Laddha said based on preliminary information.

The identification process for the dead maoists is going on.

Meanwhile, the 50 CPI (Maoist) operatives were arrested across Krishna, Eluru, NTR Vijayawada, Kakinada and Dr BR Ambedkar Konaseema districts. These include three Special Zonal Committee members, 23 Platoon members, 5 Divisional Committee members and 19 Area Committee members.

The detained individuals include senior Maoist leaders, logistics experts, communication operatives and armed platoon members, party members, many of whom were closely associated with Madvi Hidma, the central committee member of CPI Maoist Party, said Andhra Pradesh Police.

The official said that these arrests were made without causing any harm to the people.

The operation, the police said, has delivered a major blow to the organisations South Bastar and Dandakaranya networks.

Also Read | Top Maoist leader, 60 others surrender in presence of Maharashtra CM Fadnavis

Intelligence ADG Maheshchandra Laddha says, There was another exchange of fire in the Rampachodavaram forest area of the Andhra Pradesh Agency. At least six Maoists were killed in the exchange of fire between security forces and Maoists.

Laddha said it is better for the remaining Maoists to surrender. Maoists are trying to enter AP from Chhattisgarh and Telangana. We have set up a tight surveillance and are monitoring their movements.

He also said that he had launched an operation on November 17. On the morning of the 18th, there was an exchange of fire in Alluri Seetharama Raju district. Central Committee member Hidma and five other Maoists were killed.

Andhra Police also said that they seized a large amount of weapons and explosives from the Maoists we found. Some Maoists fled after the encounter in Maredumilli on Tuesday. Teams have been deployed to arrest them too...

On Tuesday, security forces neutralised Madvi Hidma, one of the most notorious Naxal commanders wanted in multiple cases of deadly attacks on security forces.

Hidma was eliminated days ahead of the November 30 deadline set by security agencies for his capture or neutralisation.

Hidma, accused of orchestrating over 26 armed assaults on security forces and civilians, was reportedly shot dead in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh's Alluri Sitharamaraju district.

Along with Hidma, his wife Raje and other members of the Maoist group, including Chelluri Narayana, and Tech Shankar were also killed.
Anmol Bishnoi, the brother of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and an accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, has been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) post being extradited from the US.

Bishnoi was chargesheeted by the NIA in 2023 for various crimes, including actively aiding terrorism.

He is the 19th accused arrested by the NIA for involvement in the terror syndicate led by his brother, Lawrence.

Here we take a look at all the charges against him: 1. Actively aiding terrorism: The NIA has said that Bishnoi "actively aided designated individual terrorist Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi in the commission of various acts of terrorism in the country during the 2020-2023 period."

2. Ran terror syndicates from abroad: The NIA has also said that Anmol, in close operations with his associates from the Bishnoi gang, ran terror syndicates and executed terrorists acts while being based out of the US.

3. Engaged in extortion: Investigations have also revealed that Bishnoi was engaged in extortion in India "from foreign soil" with the help of other gangsters.

4. Gave logistical support: Anmol also gave logistical support to the shooters and ground operatives of the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, as per the NIA.

Other charges Anmol, one of the co-accused in the Baba Siddique murder case, had been in contact over Snapchat with the shooters who carried out the crime, as per an HT report.

The publication also reveals that Anmol, who is also known as 'Bhanu', was involved in ordering the hit on Punjabi rapper Sidhu Moose Wala.

An officer of the NIA, while speaking to the publication, revealed that Anmol worked as the principal handler for his brother, Lawrence, and as part of his role, was involved in directing extortion rackets, coordinating assignments with the group's ground operatives, as well as issuing threats.

His presence abroad helped the syndicate build links with criminal groups across West Asia, East Africa and North America," the publication reported the official as saying.

Also Read | Rohit Godara alleges traitor Lawrence Bishnoi colluded with foreign agency

Anmol was detained in the US in November 2024 and his deportation procedure went on for a year before being concluded on Tuesday, 18 November.

He was arrested by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement, as per HT, for a fake passport and was being held at the Pottawattamie County jail in Iowa.
Anyone who takes "pride in Bharat" is a Hindu, Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said on Tuesday, 18 November

Bhagwat, during an interaction with people in Guwahati, claimed that 'Hindu' is not merely a religious term but a civilisational identity rooted in thousands of years of cultural continuity.

"Bharat and Hindu are synonymous. India does not need an official declaration to be a 'Hindu rashtra'. Its civilisational ethos already reflects it," said Bhagwat, the head of RSS, the fountainhead of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

Also Read | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat says Muslims can come to Sangh, but with a condition

Bhagwat said RSS was not created to oppose or harm anyone but to focus on character-building and contribute to making India a global leader.

"The methodology to unite Bharat amidst diversity is called the RSS," he said.

On "demographic changes" in Assam! Addressing concerns about "demographic changes" in Assam, Bhagwat called for confidence, vigilance, and firm attachment to one's land and identity.

He spoke about issues such as illegal infiltration, the need for a balanced population policy including a three-child norm for Hindus, and the importance of resisting divisive religious conversions. Bhagwat also advocated for the responsible use of social media, especially among young people.

Describing the Northeast as a shining example of India's unity in diversity, he said that figures like Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva hold not just regional importance but national relevance and inspire all Indians.

Bharat and Hindu are synonymous. India does not need an official declaration to be a 'Hindu rashtra'.

Bhagwat urged all sections of society to work collectively and selflessly for the nation's building.

Bhagwat arrived in Assam on Monday on a three-day visit and is scheduled to address a youth meet today. He will leave for Manipur on November 20.
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat is scheduled to arrive in Manipur on 20 November for the first time since ethnic violence broke out two years ago, a functionary of the organisation said on Wednesday.

During his three-day stay, Bhagwat will interact with citizens, entrepreneurs, and representatives of the tribal community, RSS state general secretary Tarunkumar Sharma told news agency PTI.

Also Read | RSS chief: Anyone who takes pride in Bharat is a Hindu

"Our Sarsanghchalak's visit to the state is in connection with the centenary celebrations of the RSS. He is arriving from Guwahati on November 20 and will leave on November 22," he said.

The visit is related to the centenary celebrations of the organisation. Bhagwat is currently on a three-day visit to Assam to attend similar events to commemorate 100 years of the RSS.

First trip since violence broke in Manipur This will be Bhagwat's first visit since the violence broke out two years ago, another RSS functionary said, adding that he had last visited the state in 2022.

The RSS, which calls itself a cultural organisation, is the ideological fountainhead of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

As part of his itinerary, separate interactive sessions will be held with prominent citizens, Janajati (tribal) community representatives, and youth leaders, Sharma said.

"On the day of his arrival, he will be meeting with entrepreneurs and eminent individuals at a programme at Konjeng Leikai in Imphal. On November 21, Bhagwat will meet and interact with tribal leaders from the Manipur hills," he said.

Asked if the RSS chief will be visiting relief camps, where internally displaced people have been staying for the last two years, he said, "This is not in the schedule as of now. The visit is mostly an internal part of the organisation."

More than 260 people have been killed and thousands rendered homeless in ethnic violence between Meiteis and Kuki-Zo groups since May 2023.

The Centre had imposed the Presidents rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N Biren Singh resigned.

The state assembly, which has a tenure till 2027, has been put under suspended animation.

Also Read | RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat says Muslims can come to Sangh, but with a condition

On Tuesday in Guwahati, Bhagwat said anyone who takes "pride in Bharat" is a Hindu. Bhagwat, during an interaction with people in Assam's capital city claimed that 'Hindu' is not merely a religious term but a civilisational identity rooted in thousands of years of cultural continuity.

Bharat and Hindu are synonymous. India does not need an official declaration to be a 'Hindu rashtra'.

"Bharat and Hindu are synonymous. India does not need an official declaration to be a 'Hindu rashtra'. Its civilisational ethos already reflects it," said Bhagwat, the head of RSS, the fountainhead of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).
As many as 272 eminent citizens, including several retired judges, bureaucrats, and armed forces officers, wrote an open letter on Tuesday. The letter condemned Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, over his alleged attempts to tarnish constitutional bodies, such as the Election Commission of India.

Opposition parties led by Congress MP Rahul have been accusing the Election Commission of colluding with the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) to steal votes in several states and using the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) to facilitate this.

While the letter didn't mention him by name, it directly named the Congress and other political parties.

Sixteen former judges, 123 retired bureaucrats and 133 retired armed forces officers called out Rahul Gandhi over his scathing accusations of vote theft against the Election Commission and also slammed the Opposition's blistering rhetoric against SIR [Special Intensive Revision].

Provocative but unsubstantiated accusation In a letter titled Assault on National Constitutional Authorities, the former government officials expressed grave concern that Indias democracy is under assault, not by force, but by a rising tide of venomous rhetoric directed toward its foundational institutions.

The letter highlighted how some political leaders, instead of offering genuine policy alternatives, resort to provocative but unsubstantiated accusations in their theatrical political strategy.

Also Read | Tejashwi Yadav says EC helping BJP leaders with 2 voter cards in Bihar

The letter also accused these leaders of attempting to tarnish the Indian Armed Forces by questioning their valour and accomplishments, and the Judiciary by questioning its fairness, Parliament, and its constitutional functionaries.

It is [now] the turn of the Election Commission of India to face systematic and conspiratorial attacks on its integrity and reputation, the letter read.

Rahul Gandhi's unbelievably uncouth rhetoric The letter from 272 signatories stated that Rahul Gandhi, the Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha, has repeatedly attacked the Election Commission, declaring that he has open and shut proof that the Election Commission is involved in vote theft and claimed that he has 100% proof.

Using unbelievably uncouth rhetoric that what he has found is an atom bomb and when it explodes, the EC would have no place to hide, the letter read.

The letter noted that Gandhi has also issued threats that whoever in the Elections Commission is involved in this exercise, right from top to bottom, he will not spare them.

According to him [Gandhi], ECI is indulging in treason. He has gone on record to threaten that if CEC/ECs are retired, he will hound them, the signatories wrote.

Indias democracy is under assault, not by force, but by a rising tide of venomous rhetoric directed toward its foundational institutions."

The letter further mentioned that despite such scathing accusations, Gandhi has not filed any formal complaint, along with the prescribed sworn affidavit, to escape his accountability for levelling unsubstantiated allegations and threatening public servants in performance of their duty.

Former judges, officials slam Oppn over SIR: 'Emotionally powerful but...' The letter condemned several political leaders for declaring that the Election Commission has descended into complete shamelessness by acting like the 'B-team of the BJP'.

It claimed that several senior figures of Congress and other political parties, leftist NGOs, ideologically opinionated scholars, and a few attention seekers have joined in with similarly blistering rhetoric against SIR.

The signatories said that such fiery rhetoric may be emotionally powerful  but it collapses under scrutiny, because the ECI has publicly shared its SIR methodology, overseen verification by court-sanctioned means, removed ineligible names in a compliant manner, and added new eligible voters.

'Impotent rage' The former judges, armed forces officers and bureaucrats slammed the Opposition's impotent rage, which, they said, suggests "deep anger born of repeated electoral failure and frustration, without a concrete plan to reconnect with the people."

They were referring to the Opposition's defeat in the recently concluded Bihar Assembly Elections and their poll debacle in Haryana and Maharashtra previously.

"Theatrics replace analysis. Public spectacle takes the place of public service."

They slammed the Opposition's selective outrage and said, The irony is stark: when electoral outcomes are favourable in certain States where Opposition-driven political parties form governments, criticism of the Election Commission disappears. When they are unfavourable in certain States, the Commission becomes the villain in every narrative.

Appeal to civil society, citizens In the letter, the former judges and bureaucrats appealed to the civil society and the citizens of India to stand firmly with the Election Commission - not out of flattery, but out of conviction."

They said, The society should demand that political actors stop undermining this vital institution with baseless allegations and theatrical denunciations. Instead, they should offer the public serious policy alternatives, meaningful reform ideas, and a national vision rooted in reality.

They also called upon the Election Commission to continue its path of transparency and rigour. "Publish complete data, defend itself through legal channels when necessary, and reject politics dressed up as victimhood. We call upon political leaders to respect the constitutional process, to compete not through baseless accusation but through policy articulation, and to accept democratic verdicts with grace," the letter read.
The wait for 21st installment of Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, which is commonly known as PM Kisan Yojana, is finally over as Prime Minister Narendra Modi will be releasing the next tranche of 2,000 to eligible farmers on November 19 during an event in Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore.

The Honble Prime Minister will release the 21st installment of PM-KISAN on 19 November 2025 in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu," the official website states. It further notes that nearly 18,000 crore will be disbursed via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.

PM Kisan 21st installment time: When to expect next  2,000 tranche payment Over 9 crore, PM-Kisan beneficiaries will receive funds from the central government's welfare scheme at 1:00 PM, the website states. The event will be livestreamed at 1:30 PM.

Applicants must note that eKYC is mandatory for PM Kisan registered farmers which can be done via OTP through PM Kisan portal or at the nearest Common Service Centres (CSC) and State Seva Kendras (SSK) via biometric. For the eKYC process, Aadhaar number is needed. Face authentication-based e-KYC can be done using the PM Kisan Mobile App.

So far, more than Rs. 3.70 lakh crores have been disbursed to over 11 crore farmer families in the country through 20 installments. The benefits of the scheme are being provided to those farmers whose land details are seeded in PM KISAN portal, have bank accounts seeded with Aadhaar and eKYC is completed, PIB press release dated November 14 states.

How to check PM Kisan 21st installment 2025 status? To check PM Kisan 21st installment 2025 status at pmkisan.gov.in, follow the below mentioned steps:

Step 1: Visit the official PM-Kisan website at pmkisan.gov.in

Step 2: Navigate to Farmers Corner link available on the homepage.

Step 3: Select Know Your Status" tab.

Step 4: Provide the registration number and security code to check the status.

Step 5: OTP will be sent to the registered mobile number.

Step 6: Enter the OTP on the portal and check the status of 21st installment.

PM Kisan Beneficiary List: How to check? To access PM Kisan beneficiary list of a particular village, follow the steps provided below:

Step 1. Visit the official PM Kisan portal: https://pmkisan.gov.in

Step 2. Navigate to Farmers Corner on the homepage and click on Beneficiary List.

Step 3. Enter state, district, sub-district, block and village.

Step 4. By clicking on Get Report, the user will be directed to the list of beneficiaries in that particular village.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to visit Johannesburg in South Africa for the 20th G20 Leaders Summit on 21-23 November. The summit is being hosted by the Republic of South Africa this year. This is the first time that an African nation is hosting the G20 summit.

Modi, as per the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), will be speaking in all three sessions of the summit, where he will be putting forth India's perspective on the G20 agenda.

Also Read | Trial by Trump: Ramaphosa may well have emerged stronger from the Oval Office

"Prime Minister will also be participating in the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders Meeting being hosted by South Africa," the MEA said in a press release.

What are the three sessions on? What is the G20 2025 theme? The three sessions scheduled for the G20 Summit in Johannesburg will be on:

i. Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth Leaving No One Behind : Building our economies; the role of trade; financing for development and the debt burden.

ii. A Resilient World  the G20s Contribution: Disaster Risk Reduction; Climate Change; Just Energy Transitions; Food Systems.

iii. A Fair and a Just Future for All: Critical Minerals; Decent Work; Artificial Intelligence.

The G20 2025 theme is Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability.

Also Read | Trump snubs G20 summit in South Africa, says no US official will attend

This will be the fourth consecutive G20 summit to be hosted by a national in the Global South.

The 2022 summit was held in Nusa Dua, Bali in Indonesia, in 2023 in New Delhi, India, and in 2024 in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

Which are the G20 countries? Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkiye, United Kingdom, and United States and two regional bodies, namely the European Union and the African Union.

US has boycotted the summit The summit comes in the wake of tensions between the United States and South Africa. Washington, which has boycotted the summit, has warned Pretoria against issuing a joint statement, as per a Bloomberg report.

In May this year, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa was publicly reprimanded by US President Donald Trump at the White House when the latter falsely accused him of genocide against White Afrikaners as well as expropriating land.
The Supreme Court will give its opinion tomorrow, 20 November, on the President's reference under Article 143 of the Indian Constitution.

The presidential reference pertains to the timeline for granting assent to Bills by Presidents as well as Governors under Articles 200/201 of the Constitution.

A bench headed by the Chief Justice of India B R Gavai, and comprising of justices Surya Kant, Vikram Nath, P S Narasimha and A S Chandurkar, after hearing arguments for 10 days, had reserved the verdict on 11 September.

Also Read | Stalin challenges Centre on Governor case, raises three questions

In May this year, President Droupadi Murmu, using her powers under Article 143(1) of the Constitution, had asked the apex court whether the judiciary could impose timelines on the exercise of discretion by the President while dealing with bills passed by the state assemblies.

This decision by the President came in the wake of the 8 April verdict by the Supreme Court in a case by the Tamil Nadu government against the state's governor.

Murmu had sent a five-page reference to the SC, in which she sought to know its opinion on the powers of the President and Governors under Articles 200 and 201.

The State of Tamil Nadu v. the Governor of Tamil Nadu & the Union of India (2025) This landmark ruling by the Supreme Court of India came in the 2023 writ petition filed by the Tamil Nadu government on Governor R N Ravi withholding assent to 10 bills passed by the state assembly.

Between November 2020 and April 2020, the Tamil Nadu Assembly had passed 13 bills, and 10 among them were withheld by the Governor without any communication to the assembly.

The apex court, after analysing Article 200 of the Constitution, came to the conclusion that a Governor has three options after a bill is sent to them: granting assent, which enacts the bill into a law; withholding assent and sending it back to the assembly for reconsideration; or reserving the bill for consideration by the President.

The Attorney General of India had argued that the Governor could also withhold assent and not mandate return of the bill for reconsideration. However, this argument was rejected by the Supreme Court.

The apex court said that the fact that Article 200 does not prescribe a timeline for the Governor to follow, it cannot be interpreted as a signal to allow an indefinite delay or misuse of power by the Governor.
The Mumbai Police on Wednesday summoned social media influencer Orry, aka Orhan Awatramani, in connection with a 252-crore drugs case.

Orry has been asked to appear before the Anti-Narcotics Cells Ghatkopar unit tomorrow at 10 AM for questioning, according to ANI, which quoted the police.

Earlier, the police had said that film and fashion celebrities named by Shaikh  the alleged drug dealer who was deported from Dubai last month  are likely to be questioned as the probe continues.

What is the case? The case dates back to March 2024 when the police seized 126.14 kg of mephedrone, commonly known as MD, valued at around 252 crore from a manufacturing unit located on a farm in Maharashtras Sangli district.

On Monday, the city police obtained the custody of Mohammed Salim Mohammed Suhail Shaikh in connection with the case. He is currently in the custody of the Ghatkopar unit of the Anti-Narcotics Cell.

Shaikh had claimed that he used to organise rave parties in the country and abroad for film and fashion celebrities as well as gangsters, reported PTI.

Why has Orry been summoned? The Anti-Narcotics Cell of the Mumbai Crime Branch said that the lavish parties organised by Shaikh were allegedly attended by several high-profile individuals, including Nora Fatehi and Shraddha Kapoor.

In their remand application before a Mumbai court, police said that producers Abbas-Mustan, along with a few other celebrities such as rapper Loka, Orry, and NCP leader Zeeshan Siddique were also allegedly present in the parties, mentioned a report by Hindustan Times.

How did police nab Shaikh? Deputy Commissioner of Police (ANC) Navnath Dhavale said Shaikh's role came to light during the probe into the seizure of 995 gm of mephedrone worth 2 crore, in which four persons were arrested on 4 August.

The DCP also said that a Red Corner Notice was issued against Shaikh, following which he was apprehended in the UAE a few weeks ago. The city police then approached their sister agencies, and the accused was deported, the official said.

According to the police, Shaikh is involved in at least four drug cases.
A post by an Indian-origin professional has set off a wide-ranging discussion online after he described what it has been like to move back to India after spending 25 years in the United States.

Naresh, who recently returned with his wife as they approach retirement, wrote on X that several of their friends in the US are also weighing the idea of relocating to India for their later years. Many of them, he said, are financially comfortable and eager to reconnect with their roots  yet unsure about what day-to-day life in India would look like after decades abroad.

Although he noted that there are so many positives to settling in India, Naresh pointed out that one particular deal breaker consistently surfaces in conversations with potential returnees. He did not spell it out immediately, but stressed that this single factor alone is enough to make several NRIs reconsider moving back.

As we are approaching retirement age, some US friends are asking how life in India really is, he wrote. Just think about it  NRIs with $$ ready to contribute to the Indian economy, but not coming back because of this one issue. We need to fix it on a war footing.

His post quickly gained traction. By the latest update, it had crossed 7.6 lakh views and drawn hundreds of comments, most of them echoing Nareshs concerns.

As the conversation picked up, users began sharing their own perspectives on the challenges of retiring in India  from infrastructure limitations to the pressures of life in rapidly growing cities  and the factors that influence an NRIs decision to return home.

One user argued, We are 1.5 billion people. That naturally means crowds and traffic. Even China has them.

Naresh responded, Its the chaos of Indian traffic that is frustrating. People cutting left, right, honking etc. I can handle Chicago traffic jams where everyone maintains lane discipline and there is order.

Another commenter questioned why NRIs would want to return after decades abroad: Retirement is not great in India in terms of infrastructure. Traffic is just one thing. They must have built strong social circles there  why leave all that now?

To this, Naresh replied, Ageing, parents, affordable healthcare, and support of a cook, driver and maid.
Grok vs GPT on Is Trump fascist?: A provocative question posed to two leading large language models (LLMs)  xAI's Grok and OpenAI's ChatGPT  has triggered a fresh controversy over alleged political bias in artificial intelligence.

A post on X (formerly Twitter) comparing how each model handled the question quickly went viral. The chatbots offered seemingly different assessments of whether US President Donald Trump fits the label of a fascist, prompting a sharp rebuke from Vice President JD Vance on Wednesday.

This comes shortly after the Elon Musk-owned Grok AI chatbot became the centre of another controversy after it claimed that Donald Trump won the 2020 US Presidential Elections.

The two sides of AI The core of the controversy is the difference in the two chatbots' responses to the direct question by an X user, where he asked, Is Trump a fascist? Give me a hard yes or no and reasons.

Grok AI delivered a straight no. It responded to the question, stating, No, Donald Trump does not meet the scholarly or historical definition of a fascist, the post showed.

Whereas, Sam Altman-led ChatGPT offered a more conditional answer, claiming, No, Donald Trump is not a fascist in the strict historical sense. However, some of his rhetoric and actions display fascistic tendencies according to many political scientists.

Also Read | Cloudflare Down LIVE: Cloudflare says it resolved global outage

The X user shared the screenshots of the responses on their social media handle and captioned it as, Task yourself which AI you want teaching your kids. Grok 4.1 vs gpt 5.1 on is Trump fascist. Notice the implications in each answer.

JD Vance calls out the bias The differing outputs drew criticism from public figures such as the Vice President of the United States, JD Vance, a close ally of President Trump. He weighed in on the issue on social media, labelling the results as absurd.

Some of the political bias in AI models is absurd, Vance posted on X in response to the post.

Netizens react to the post The post quickly went viral, drawing a wide range of reactions from social media users. While some responded with memes on the AI clash, others shared their own opinions about the capabilities, limitations and growing influence of artificial intelligence.

A user said, 100% we need AI regulation. I think AI will be used to manipulate elections and influence voters to not support Conservative candidates.

Also Read | Artificial intelligence sparks debate at COP30 climate talks in Brazil

Another user stated, Facts. AI shouldnt be a political echo chamber. If a model cant separate analysis from agenda, its not intelligence its alignment gone wrong.
Zoho Chief Scientist Sridhar Vembu's latest advice to young entrepreneurs, "to marry and have kids in their 20s" sparked an intense online debate on social media on Wednesday, November 19. Vembu's appeal to the young to fulfill their "demographic duty" seemed not to resonate with netizens who highlighted "trade off" when 20-year-olds marry early.

Sridhar Vembu's post Sridhar Vembu wrote in a post on X on Wednesday, "I advise young entrepreneurs I meet, both men and women, to marry and have kids in their 20s and not keep postponing it."

"I tell them they have to do their demographic duty to society and their own ancestors. I know these notions may sound quaint or old-fashioned but I am sure these ideas will resonate again," Sridhar Vembu said in a post.

Also Read | Sridhar Vembu says Arattais biggest security upgrade will roll out in days

He was reacting to entrepreneur Upasana Konidela's post, in which she recalled her experience during an interaction with students at IIT Hyderabad. She said more men than women had raised their hands when she asked, How many of you want to get married?

She wrote on X, "I truly had an amazing time interacting with the students at

@IITHyderabad. When I asked, How many of you want to get married?  more men raised their hands, than the women! The women seemed far more career-focused !!!! This is the new - Progressive India. ."

Sridhar Vembu's reaction to Konidela's post sparked a debate. Here's what netizens said:

Why people may not want to get married in their 20s: 'Youth are afraid' An X user named Gaurav Chaudhary highlighted fear among the youth about "building a family on unstable salaries." He said, "Everyone keeps advising 20-year-olds to marry early, but no one talks about the actual tradeoff."

"Todays youth arent 'afraid of commitment', theyre afraid of building a family on unstable salaries, zero work-life balance, and rent that eats 40% of income," Chaudhary said, adding that "it's not a demographic crisis" but an economic one. "Fix that, and hands will rise on their own," he said.

Also Read | Sridhar Vembu points out 3 focus areas to enable debt-free future for youth

Vembu seconded Chaudhary's views, saying, "I agree with you. My earlier post talked about the cost of living crisis among the young. But even people who can afford to are not marrying and having kids. That is cultural."

But Chaudhary went on to emphasise other important challenges that stop young people from marrying early and having children.

"...even men who can afford marriage hesitate because the laws around divorce, custody, and alimony feel stacked against them. Plus, with divorce rates rising in metros and studies showing happiness drops after the first few years of marriage, it feels less like a 'demographic duty' and more like a high-risk contract today," Chaudhary said.

View full Image Why people may not want to get married in their 20s

Chaudhary said "duty" matters, but people also expect basic happiness from a lifelong partnership. "With divorce rates rising and most studies showing marital happiness drops after the first few years, its natural theyre cautious."

"Theyre not rejecting marriage. Theyre rejecting the penalty + unhappiness risk if it goes wrong," he added.

Meanwhile, another user, Monica Varma, asked Vembu, ...if I choose to have kids in my 20s, who is going to compensate for my career being on pause or even set back with maternity leaves in this cut-throat? Yes, I would love to have children above all. BUT that alone is not my sole purpose in life.

Also Read | Zoho CEO faces backlash for linking child vaccines to autism, Liver Doc responds

Vembu then responded, "Life is not a race. There is plenty of opportunity to excel at any age, and 30 is a new beginning for many people. I remember receiving this advice from my mother, and I am glad to have received it."

"If I were to look at life as a race, I have failed compared to Mark Zuckerberg, who is 20 years younger. Have I failed? Somehow, I don't wake up every morning thinking I am a failure. I have to thank my mother for this perspective on life," he said.

'Young adults are not the disruptors': What research says A report released by Pew Research Centre in January 2024 noted that young adults today are getting married much later than their parents generation. The median age of adults at the time of their first marriage has risen, it said.

They are also delaying having children. "For example, 27% of adults ages 30 to 34 had a child in their household in 2023, compared with 60% in 1993," the report stated.

A 2018 research from the Stanford Center on Longevity stated that on average, people over 25 said they wanted ideally to marry by 27, buy a home by 28 and start a family by 29.

However, the extent to which people reached these goals decreased with every successive generation, with those between 25 and 34 being the least likely to achieve them.
Will the 'Epstein files' be released soon? On Tuesday, the US Congress agreed to pass a bill. It forces the Justice Department to publicly release its files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The bill overwhelmingly passed the House with a vote of 427 to 1. Within hours, the Senate agreed unanimously that the bill would be passed without further action once it arrives in the Senate.

Trump to sign the bill The bill is likely to be approved by US President Donald Trump, the Associated Press reported. On Monday (17 November), Trump said he would sign the bill if it passes both the House and the Senate.

Sure, I would, Trump had said from the Oval Office. He added, Let the Senate look at it. Let anybody look at it. But don't talk about it too much, because honestly, I don't want to take it away from us. It's really a Democrat problem."

What does it mean? The decisive, bipartisan work showed mounting pressure on lawmakers and the Trump administration. They must now meet long-held demands that the Justice Department release files on Epstein. The well-connected financier killed himself in a Manhattan jail in 2019 while awaiting trial for sexually abusing and trafficking underage girls.

For survivors of Epsteins abuse, passage of the bill was a watershed moment in a years-long quest for accountability.

Only one lawmaker opposed the bill Only one lawmaker opposed the bill: Rep. Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who supports Trump. He cast the only nay vote in the House's 427-1 tally. He expressed concern that the legislation could lead to the release of information about innocent people mentioned in the federal investigation.

What does the bill say? The bill forces the release within 30 days of all files and communications related to Epstein, as well as any information about the investigation into his death in federal prison.

It would allow the Justice Department to redact information about Epsteins victims or continuing federal investigations, but not information due to embarrassment, reputational harm, or political sensitivity.

Trump's U-turn on Epstein files Trump has said he cut ties with Epstein years ago, but tried for months to move past the demands for disclosure.

But on Sunday, Trump called on his fellow Republicans in Congress to vote for the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Also Read | In reversal, Trump says House Republicans should vote to release Epstein files

House Republicans should vote to release the Epstein files, because we have nothing to hide, Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

And its time to move on from this Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics in order to deflect from the Great Success of the Republican Party, including our recent Victory on the Democrat 'Shutdown'.
Alphabet CEO Sundar Pichai has voiced his support for the H1-B visa programme while hailing the contribution of immigrants to the tech industry. Notably, Pichai, who is an alumnus of IIT-Madras, himself arrived in the United States on an H1-B visa but the recent orders by the Trump administration have made it more difficult for tech companies to hire skilled workers.

In an interaction with the BBC, Pichai was asked about the H1-B crackdown by the US government, to which he replied, "If you look at the history of technology development, the contribution of immigrants to the sector has been nothing but phenomenal."

I think the government understands it. I think there's a framework by which we all can still bring our talented individuals, and I think they're making changes to address some of the shortcomings in the current programme, and I think we'll be able to continue investing, Pichai added.

Notably, ever since the return of Donald Trump to power in the US, there has been a resurgence of "America First" immigration policies and growing fear that there could be drastic changes in the H1-B policy that could impact highly skilled professionals and students from countries like India, China and the Philippines.

Some US lawmakers have even proposed legislation to completely end the H1-B visa programme or drastically reduce the number of applicants accepted. Meanwhile, there has been stricter scrutiny of visas and a suspected higher denial rate. The US administration has also hiked the H1-B visa fee paid by employers to $100,000, up from the previous fee of around $2,000 to $5,000.

Notably, the H-1B is a temporary non-immigrant US visa which is often employed by US companies to get the best foreign talent to work for them. With the AI race heating up, the demand for highly skilled workers has been going through the roof, with companies like Meta poaching AI engineers and researchers for reportedly millions of dollars in packages.

What did Pichai say about Trump's earlier order on H1-B visas? Notably, Pichai's recent comment is toned down as compared to his tweet in response to the temporary H1-B suspension in 2020.
Amid launching an aggressive crackdown on immigration and H-1B visas, US President Donald Trump on Wednesday said that Saudi investors can bring their own workers to the US who in turn can teach Americans.

Trump made the remarks during a keynote address to a business gathering at a Saudi investment conference which took place a day after he hosted Saudi Arabia's de facto ruler Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.

Addressing the summit, Trump said, If you are coming here and if you find that we don't have people that did (work) before, we are allowing you (to bring people). To get those plants open, we want you to get that, and we want you to teach our people how to make computer chips and other things.

Trump added that he might take a little heat from the people  the people who love him and the people he loves.

You can't come in and open up a massive computer chip factory for billions of dollars like being done in Arizona, and think you are going to hire people off an unemployment line. They have to bring thousands of people with them, and I am going to welcome those people, said Trump.

Stating that he loves his conservative friends, Trump added, I love MAGA, but this is MAGA and those people are going to teach our people how to make computer chips and in a short period of time, our people are going to be great.

During the address, Trump said that 270 billion in agreements and sales are being signed at a US-Saudi Investment Forum between dozens of companies.

I want to thank you for bringing all those jobs and all those great opportunities to America.

In a message to all the leaders and investors at the Forum, Trump said that under the Trump Administration, America is back  and America is open for business.

Trump takes jibe at Joe Biden Trump also took a potshot at the former President, saying in four long years, Joe Biden secured less than $1 trillion dollars.

"In nine short months, I have secured $18 trillion dollars to rebuild our factories, create hundreds of thousands of jobs, and bring back those beautiful words  MADE IN AMERICA.

The US President also claimed that 1.9 million more American-born workers are employed today than when he took office.

Under Biden, 1 out of every 4 new jobs went to increase the size of the federal government. Under my administration, 100% of all new jobs created came out of the private sector.

Trump stated that a company named GE Aerospace would deliver dozens of new airplane engines for 787 Dreamliners to Saudi Arabia.
The prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey encountered a new hurdle on Wednesday (November 19) as the Justice Department acknowledged a potential procedural error in how the case was presented to a federal grand jury.

The issue arose during a hearing where Comeys attorneys asked US District Judge Michael Nachmanoff to dismiss the case, claiming the governments actions were vindictive and improperly influenced by President Donald Trump.

Grand jury indictment concerns Comeys lawyer, Michael Dreeben, argued that the failure to present the final two-count indictment to the full grand jury could be grounds for dismissal.

That would be tantamount to a bar of further prosecution in this case, Dreeben told the court.

US Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick had earlier reviewed a transcript of the grand jury proceedings and questioned whether all jurors saw the final indictment. Justice Department prosecutor Tyler Lemons confirmed that only two jurors, including the foreperson, were present when the revised indictment was submitted.

Charges against Comey James Comey, dismissed by President Donald Trump in 2017 and a longtime critic since, is seeking to have federal charges dismissed that stem from his 2020 testimony. He is among several individuals seen as Trumps opponents who have faced recent investigations or indictments.

Comey faces charges of making a false statement and obstructing Congress, linked to sworn testimony about whether he authorized an FBI colleague to serve as an anonymous source to the news media. Comey has pleaded not guilty.

Vindictive prosecution claims Dreeben contended that the indictment was influenced by political pressure from Trump.

The presidents use of the Department of Justice to bring a criminal prosecution against a vocal and prominent critic in order to punish and deter those who would speak out against him violates the Constitution, he said.

Trump had publicly demanded action against Comey, posting in September: We cant delay any longer, its killing our reputation. JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!

Dreeben noted that Trump later appointed Lindsey Halligan, a White House aide without prior prosecutorial experience, as acting US attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. Halligan quickly secured Comeys indictment days before the statute of limitations expired.

She did what she was told to do, Dreeben said in court.

Justice Department response Prosecutors insisted that Comeys indictment was based on legal violations, not political direction.

The defendant is not being put on trial for anything he said about the president, Lemons said. It was her decision and her decision only.

However, Judge Nachmanoff pressed the issue, pointing out Halligans recent appointment by Trump:

What independent evaluation could she have done in that time period?
As the US Congress passed the bill to release the full Epstein files, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) questioned on Tuesday whether the government of President Donald Trump would actually release them.

In a press conference on Tuesday, Greene said, While I want to see every single name released so that these women dont have to live in fear and intimidationwhich is something Ive had a small taste of in just the past few days, just a small tastetheyve been living it for years."

"But the real test will be: Will the Department of Justice release the files, or will it all remain tied up in investigations? Will the CIA release the files? Will a federal judgewill a judge in New York, sorry, a judge in New York release the information? Thats information that needs to come out," she said.

Watching this actually turn into a fight has ripped MAGA apart, Greene said in a press conference on the steps of the Capitol, surrounded by survivors of Epsteins sex trafficking ring who offered dramatic accounts of abuse they suffered as teenagers.

Ill tell you right now, this has been one of the most destructive things to MAGA, Greene added, watching the man that we supported early on, three elections, for people that stood for hours, slept in their cars to go to rallies, have fought for truth and transparency.

Shortly after an overwhelming vote in the US House of Representatives, the Senate also passed the Epstein Files Transparency Act on Tuesday, moving a step closer to the forced release of the files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The bill will now be sent to President Donald Trump for his assent.

Will the Trump's DOJ release Epstein Files? The legislation requires the release of all files and records, including investigations, flight logs, travel records, immunity deals, internal DOJ communications, and all records related to Epsteins case and his 2019 death in prison.

Trump may be able to delay the release of key files even if the measure becomes law.

On Friday, Trump directed the Justice Department to investigate Epsteins possible ties to notable Democrats and the ongoing probe could prevent release of related files, Republican Representative Thomas Massie of Kentucky, who helped spearhead the legislation, said on ABCs This Week Sunday.

Trump, who has repeatedly said he cut ties with Epstein nearly two decades ago and was not aware of the late financiers activities, just last week pushed back against Republicans supporting a discharge petition to force the House vote.

Trumps handling of the investigation  from claiming he wasnt in the files at all, to having his deputy attorney general interview Maxwell who was later moved to more comfortable accommodations, to ordering an investigation into Democrats  has only exacerbated tensions within the party.
Thanksgiving weather forecast: As Thanksgiving approaches, millions of Americans are expected to travel by road, rail or air to meet their families, relatives and loved ones. However, winter storms, rains and snowfall in parts of the country may dampen the spirit and also affect travel plans on the holiday. Here's a look at the weather forecast.

When is Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving, a harvest festival, falls on November 27. It is celebrated on the fourth Thursday every year. It is also an annual national holiday in the United States. The Thanksgiving event in American homes is celebrated with meals consisting of various dishes including turkey, gravy, mashed potatoes, sweet potatoes. The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Native Americans.

Weather forecast for Thanksgiving? The National Weather Service (NWS) said that a storm over the southwest US will shift east through Thursday while another Pacific storm pivots over the region on Friday through the weekend. With each storm, widespread low elevation rain and high elevation snow showers are expected. Both storms will shift over the central US.

In the short-range forecast, the Weather Prediction Centre (WPS) said that there is a slight risk of excessive rainfall over parts of the Southwest on Wednesday and southern Texas on Thursday. Whereas, light snow over parts of the southern Utah Mountains, the Colorado Mountains, and the Sierra Nevada Mountains are expected.

The system will produce heavy rain and thunderstorms over parts of the Southwest and rain/higher-elevation snow over parts of the Central/Southern Rockies overnight Wednesday into Thursday.

WPC stated that on Thursday, heavy rain and thunderstorms will develop over the Southern Plains and spread into the Middle/Lower Mississippi Valley.

Also Read | Olive Garden to shut all 900 stores across US on Thanksgiving and Christmas?

The associated heavy rain will create mainly localized areas of flash flooding, with urban areas, roads, small streams, narrow canyons/gullies, and burn scars the most vulnerable.

It added that on Thursday, rain will move into the Ohio Valley, expanding into the Central Appalachian by Thursday evening and the Mid-Atlantic/Northeast overnight Thursday into Friday.

According to Fox Weather, the Missouri to Texas region may see some rain on Wednesday into Thanksgiving Day, while the West, Northeast, Mid-Atlantic, and much of the Southeast are expected to have dry conditions.

Accuweather stated that the Pacific storm will bring more rain, mountain snow and could still cause travel disruptions on highways and at airports.

According to Bernie Rayno, Chief On-Air Meteorologist at AccuWeather, the heaviest rainfall from this storm will focus on Southern California.

The storm system is expected to develop on November 24, and could bring rain to the southern Plains, Another storm system will bring rain and colder conditions to the Pacific Northwest.

The most impressive Thanksgiving took place on November 27, 1919, when an intense snowstorm dropped in from the northwest into eastern Utah and western Colorado, says weather.gov.
In a fresh trouble for Larry Summers, who has also steps down from OpenAI board over Epstein ties, the Harvard University is opening a new probe connections between its former president and disgraced sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The university is conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents to evaluate what actions may be warranted, a spokesperson for the school said in a statement.

The Harvard Crimson, the student newspaper and Boston Globe reported the universitys latest probe earlier.

Also Read | Larry Summers quits OpenAI board as questions mount over Epstein email link

An earlier review completed in 2020 found that Epstein visited Harvards campus more than 40 times after his 2008 sex crimes conviction and was given his own office and unfettered access to a research center he helped establish, reported AP.

On Tuesday, Larry said that he's stepping back from public commitments and on Wednesday, he resigned from the OpenAI board.

Larry has decided to resign from the OpenAI Board of Directors, and we respect his decision, the board said in a statement.

We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress, Larry said in a statement.

Also Read | Trump to decide on Epstein files release as US Congress votes  what we know

Summers joined the OpenAI board in Nov. 2023, part of an effort to restore stability at the nonprofit and bring back its CEO Sam Altman after its previous board members fired Altman days earlier.

Epstein was a convicted sex offender infamous for his connections to wealthy and powerful people. He died by suicide in 2019.

On Tuesday, nearly all House Republicans voted to compel the Justice Department to release its files on sex trafficker.

We have nothing to hide, and its time to move on, Trump posted on social media late Sunday.
US President Donald Trump's administration is taking further steps to dismantle the Department of Education, shifting its functions to other federal departments.

This decision has sparked opposition from Democrats who argue it harms students, terming it as an assault on public school education.

Before signing an executive order in March 2025, Trump said that they have to get their children educated. Were not doing well with the world of education in this country, and we havent for a long time.

New partnerships US Secretary of Education Linda McMahon stated that the administration is taking bold action to break up the federal education bureaucracy and return education to the states.

The functions that the department currently performs would go to the Labor, State, Interior, Health and Human Services departments.

The six new interagency agreements (IAAs) with the four departments will streamline federal education activities on the legally required programs, reduce administrative burdens, and refocus programs and activities to better serve students and grantees, said the education department said in a statement.

Together, we will refocus education on students, families, and schools  ensuring federal taxpayer spending is supporting a world-class education system, said Linda McMahon.

Two days ago, in a Presidential message on American Education Week, Trump said that every American student deserves a high-quality education and through the dismantling action, his administration is restoring common sense to classrooms; and building a generation of thinkers, builders, and leaders who are ready to carry our Nation forward.

By dismantling the Department of Education, his Administration has returned control of education to where it belongswith States, local communities, and parents who are best equipped to meet the needs of their students, said Trump in his message.

Also Read | Donald Trump signs order to largely dismantle education department

The move has sparked sharp reactions from Democrats and some Republicans.

Stating that only Congress has the authority to close the Education Department, US Senator Elizabeth Warren called Linda McMahon a liar and said that the Trump administration is waging an illegal assault on public school kids.

Instead of working to lower costs for Americans, the Trump administration is hellbent on punishing underserved students, Warren said in a statement.

US representative Brian Fitzpatrick said that the department's functions are foundational' and changing them without congressional oversight would pose real risks to students, reported Reuters.

As the Trump administration takes steps to return education to the states, what happens to current education department employees, federal student loans and money that schools and colleges receive?

Will there be layoffs? The moves won't affect the money Congress gives states, schools and colleges, reported AP quoting education officials.

However, it is unclear whether current department staff would keep their jobs.

What happens to schools and colleges funding? The money that the schools and colleges receive will continue to be awarded as allocated by Congress. The schools in the US are primarily funded by state and local money. However, the Education Department serves as a conduit of federal aid going to education agencies.

Education officials say that money will continue to be awarded as allocated by Congress, but much of it will flow from another federal agency. That money is now likely to flow from another federal agency.

Also Read | Donald Trump plans to cancel student loan relief program for some non-profits

What happens to Federal student loans? The management of the $1.6 trillion federal student loan portfolio is one of the department's major roles. According to AP, Pell Grants and federal loans will continue to be disbursed, and student loan borrowers must continue making payments on their debts.
Ryan Wedding, 44, is a former Canadian Olympic snowboarder who competed at the 2002 Salt Lake City Winter Games, finishing 24th in the parallel giant slalom. Wedding is now infamous as an international drug trafficker, accused of running one of the largest narcotics pipelines in the Western Hemisphere.

Authorities say Wedding evolved into a modern-day Pablo Escobar, operating a drug trafficking empire that moved up to 60 tons of cocaine a year from Colombia through Mexico and into the United States and Canada.

His aliases reportedly include El Jefe, Public Enemy, Giant, and James Conrad King.

What are the charges against him? Wedding faces multiple federal charges in the United States, including:

1. Running a multi-national drug trafficking network

Accused of orchestrating a colossal narcotics pipeline involving the Sinaloa cartel.

Used long-haul trucks and cross-border routes between Colombia, Mexico, Southern California, and Canada.

Allegedly responsible for shipping hundreds of millions of dollars worth of cocaine annually.

2. Narco-terrorism and conspiracy

US officials say Wedding engineered a narco-terrorism operation unprecedented in recent years.

3. Ordering the murder of a federal witness

January 2025: A witness in a pending federal case against Wedding was tracked down and shot five times at a restaurant in Medellin, Colombia.

Authorities say Wedding believed killing the witness would force the dismissal of the case and prevent his extradition.

4. Using a website to facilitate the killing

Wedding and his associates allegedly used a Canadian website, The Dirty News, to post the witnesss photo so he could be identified and killed.

The sites founder, Gursewak Singh Bal, was arrested for his role in the plot.

5. Conspiracy involving his own lawyer

His lawyer, Deepak Paradkar, was arrested in Canada.

Prosecutors say Paradkar advised Wedding that killing the witness would make the case disappear.

Additional arrests

Seven individuals linked to Weddings operation were arrested in Canada.

Three more suspects connected to the Medellin killing were detained elsewhere.

Where is Ryan Wedding now? Wedding is currently on the run and is believed to be:

 Hiding in Mexico

Authorities say he is living under the protection of the Sinaloa cartel, one of the worlds most powerful criminal organizations.

 Considered extremely dangerous

FBI agents describe Wedding as:

Extremely violent

Extremely wealthy

Fully embedded in cartel structures

He remains among the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitives.

How much is the reward for his capture? The US State Department has increased the reward to:

$15 MILLION for information leading to his arrest

It is one of the highest bounties ever offered for a North American fugitive.

Additionally:

Up to $2 million each is being offered for others involved in the witness killing.

Why is he considered a top threat? Canadian and US authorities say Wedding poses a critical threat because:

-His trafficking network spans multiple continents.

-He works closely with the Sinaloa cartel.

-He has demonstrated a willingness to order assassinations, including of federal witnesses.

-He controls a vast flow of cocaine into Canada and the United States.
China has shifted its global financial priorities, with more than three-quarters of its overseas lending now supporting upper-middle-income and high-income countries. The United States is the largest single recipient of Chinese official credit, receiving over $200 billion across nearly 2,500 projects and activities spanning almost every state. These include investments in pipelines, logistics infrastructure, data centres, and corporate credit facilities.

Europe also a major beneficiary European nations are similarly significant recipients of Beijings lending:

EU (27 countries): $161 billion across nearly 1,800 projects

UK: $60 billion

Germany: $33.4 billion

France: $21.3 billion

Italy: $17.4 billion

Portugal: $11.7 billion

Netherlands: $11.6 billion

The report highlights that Chinas financial footprint is deeply embedded across Western economies.

Chinas lending much bigger than previously assumed William & Marys AidData research lab unveiled the findings on November 18, revealing that China has issued $2.2 trillion in aid and credit across 200 countries between 2000 and 2023. Compiled over 36 months using data collected by William & Mary students, the reportChasing China: Learning to Play by Beijings Global Lending Rulesspans more than 300 pages.

Brad Parks, AidData executive director and lead author, noted that Chinas total portfolio is two-to-four times larger than previously published estimates suggest. This marks the first AidData report to comprehensively map Beijings lending in advanced economies, including the United States, the UK, Europe, Japan, and Australia.

From aid provider to geopolitical power player The report finds Beijing has moved away from philanthropic, development-focused lending, with cross-border finance increasingly reflecting party-state priorities such as:

-National security

-Economic statecraft

-Global supply chain leverage

-High-tech sector dominance

Much of the lending to wealthy countries is directed at critical infrastructure, critical minerals, and high-tech assets, including semiconductor companies.

Implications for global security and competition AidData warns that Chinas operations are becoming more opaque, often routed through shell companies in jurisdictions with strict secrecy rules. The findings have broad geoeconomic and national security implications, including:

-Vulnerability of strategic reserves

-Reliability of power grids and energy networks

-Control of maritime choke points

-Resilience of global supply chains

-Competition in high-tech industries

The report highlights that great-power rivalry is spilling over into the development finance sector.
The Bangladesh government is set to seek help from Interpol for the extradition of ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal, who have been handed death sentences for crimes against humanity.

While the Chief Prosecutor's Office of the International Crimes Tribunal is drafting an application for the foreign ministry to seek Interpol assistance for extraditing the duo to Bangladesh, the foreign ministry said it is also preparing a letter and may send it to New Delhi in a day or two, according to a report by The Daily Star.

Foreign Adviser Touhid Hossain said Dhaka has not yet sent the letter. The letter is being prepared. It may be sent today," the Bangladeshi publication quoted Hossain as saying on Tuesday.

In December last year, the foreign ministry wrote to India's Ministry of External Affairs, seeking to repatriate Hasina, who sought shelter in India in August following the massive student protests.

What does extradition treaty say? An extradition treaty between India and Bangladesh, signed in 2013 and amended in 2016, is based on the principle that both nations are required to treat the offence as a crime.

Article 2 of the treaty  as stated in the MEA website  outlines the extradition offences. It states: "In determining whether an offence is an offence punishable under the laws of both Contracting States, it shall not matter whether the law of both Contracting States place the act or omission constituting the offence within the same category of offence or denominate the offence by same terminology".

According to Reuters, an Indian government source had said that extradition is a lengthy process requiring review of tribunal documents to ensure due procedure, fair representation, and credible testimony. India cannot act without these records, and exemptions to the treaty apply if the case appears political, the source had said.

Can extradition be denied? The treaty also lists out the circumstances under which an extradition can be denied. Under Article 6 (1), extradition can be refused for political offence. Article 6 (2) states that serious crimes like murder, terrorism, kidnapping, violent acts, incitement to murder, and firearm offences are not considered political.

Article 8 states that extradition can also be refused if the person can show that the offence is too minor to justify such a serious step, too much time has passed since the alleged act or escape from justice, or the charges were made in bad faith and not for genuine legal reasons.

How did India react to the death sentence of Sheikh Hasina? Following the death sentence verdict, India said it has taken note of the verdict delivered by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh and reaffirmed that it remains committed to peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in Bangladesh.
A major fire swept through a residential area in the southern Japanese city of Oita, forcing the evacuation of 175 people, the local government said on Wednesday. One person remains missing.

Firefighters were still battling the blaze, which has reportedly spread to a nearby forested mountain, public broadcaster NHK reported, showing white smoke rising from the flames in the distance.

Footage showed crews desperately hosing down ferocious flames as they tore through homes on Tuesday night, while residents were moved to a makeshift evacuation centre.

Eyewitness accounts highlighted the terrifying speed and intensity of the fire. The flames rose high, turning the sky red. The wind was strong. I never thought it would spread so much, one man in the city on the southern island of Kyushu told the broadcaster NHK.

The mountain was burning, the one behind, said another man. I brought with me my driver's license and smartphone.

When did the fire start? The massive blaze, which broke out late on Tuesday, has caused widespread devastation across the southern region of Japan.

Fire officials received an emergency call from a resident around 5:45 PM on Tuesday in Saganoseki, Oita City. The blaze has since grown so extensively that it remains uncontrolled, more than 12 hours after the initial call, NHK reported.

The severity of the incident prompted the fire crew to evacuate 115 households, or approximately 175 people, the Oita prefectural government stated in a press release.

The fire has reportedly affected at least 170 buildings in Oita. One person remained unaccounted for, while 300 houses in part of Oita were suffering a power blackout, the news report said.

What's next? According to NHK, the prefectural authorities have decided to implement the disaster relief law for the city, which will enable the central government and the prefecture to cover all necessary costs, including expenses for maintaining the shelter.

The region's prefecture's governor also spoke to the military about potential support for controlling the situation, news agency AFP reported.
The White House announced that during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit on Tuesday (local time), the United States and Saudi Arabia finalised deals for civil nuclear energy and the sale of advanced US F-35 jets, AFP reported.

Both nations approved a joint declaration on civil nuclear energy. This agreement builds the legal foundation for a decades-long, multi-billion-dollar partnership. It must comply with strong nonproliferation standards, the White House noted.

President Donald Trump also authorised a major defence sale package. This includes upcoming deliveries of F-35 advanced American fighter jets. Trump also signed a deal for Saudi Arabia to buy approximately 300 US-made tanks. This purchase will strengthen the Kingdom's defence capabilities and protect hundreds of American jobs.

Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman concluded several historic deals that further solidify the USSaudi strategic relationship, create more high-paying jobs in the United States, bolster key supply chains, and support stability in the region, the White House said in a post on X.

Saudi Arabia to raise its investment commitments in US to nearly $1 trillion: Crown Prince These agreements directly extend from the Presidents successful visit to Riyadh in May and the $600 billion in Saudi investment commitments made during that trip, White House noted in the X post.

Marking a significant expansion of the partnership, the Crown Prince mentioned that Saudi Arabia will raise its investment commitments in the United States to nearly $1 trillion, signalling growing confidence and momentum for the United States under Trumps leadership, it added.

Both nations agreed to a groundbreaking AI Memorandum of Understanding that grants the Kingdom access to top-tier American systems while safeguarding US technology from external influence, ensuring that American innovators remain at the forefront of shaping the global AI landscape.

According to the White House, these agreements highlight the Trump administrations America First approach, strengthening Americas global leadership while safeguarding the nations economic future.

Combined with the critical minerals, nuclear, AI, and defence initiatives announced today, these deals will create high-paying American jobs, boost U.S. technological leadership, and deliver massive returns for American workers and families for decades to come, the White House statement read.
President Donald Trump offered a warm welcome to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) at the White House on Tuesday. The meeting was friendly, featuring many handshakes and back pats. Trump downplayed questions about Saudi Arabias human rights record, instead praising the princes leadership. He also revealed that Saudi Arabia would make hundreds of billions of dollars in new investments in the United States.

The White House arranged significant pageantry for the Saudi royal. This included an honour guard on horseback, a display of fighter jets the two leaders watched from a red carpet, and an elaborate dinner in the East Room.

Trump-MBS meeting: A look at 9 key takeaways Trump had hinted at his decision to sell F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia on Sunday but made it official in front of the prince on Tuesday, stating that the approval was finalised and that Israels concerns about maintaining its qualitative military edge in the Middle East would be addressed. As far as Im concerned, I think they are both at a level where they should get top of the line. Israels aware and theyre going to be very happy, AP quoted Trump as saying . 2. Israeli officials have indicated they would not object to Saudi Arabia acquiring F-35 jets, provided Riyadh normalises relations with Israel under the Abraham Accords framework. For their part, the Saudis have said they would sign the Accords only if there is a credible, guaranteed path toward Palestinian statehood, a stance Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman reiterated during the meeting.

We want to be part of the Abraham Accords, but we want also to be sure that we secure a clear path of two-state solution. Were going to work on that to be sure that we come prepared for the situation as soon as possible to have that.

View full Image US President Donald Trump, from right, First Lady Melania Trump, and Mohammed bin Salman, Saudi Arabia's crown prince, during a dinner in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, US, on Tuesday ( Bloomberg )

3. Trump also announced that the US and Saudi Arabia would finalise a broader military and security agreement during the visit and proceed with a civilian nuclear deal with Saudi Arabia, which has also raised concerns in Israel.

4. Trump designated Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally. According to Bloomberg, the designation, given to nations with close strategic ties to the US, grants financing and priority access to certain military equipment purchases, along with the ability to engage in joint research initiatives.

5. The two countries signed an agreement for Saudi Arabia to purchase nearly 300 tanks from the US.

6. Tuesday marked the crown princes first White House visit since the 2018 killing and dismemberment of Jamal Khashoggi, a US resident and Washington Post columnist, at the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey. US intelligence agencies have indicated that Prince Mohammed Bin Salman likely approved the killing, a report by AP noted.

Trump described Khashoggi, a Saudi pro-democracy activist, extremely controversial and mentioned a lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen, but he (the crown prince) knew nothing about it and we can leave it at that.

Prince Mohammad, nicknamed MBS, who has refuted involvement in Khashoggi's killing, responded that his government had taken action. He stated, Its been painful for us in Saudi Arabia. We did all the right steps of investigation, etc., in Saudi Arabia, and weve improved our system to be sure that nothing happens like that again. And its painful, and it was a huge mistake.

7. The White House visit and associated agreements, including a broad Saudi commitment to raise investment in the US from $600 billion to $1 trillion, represent significant achievements for the Crown Prince.

8. MBS said Osama bin Laden orchestrated the 9/11 attacks to sabotage USSaudi ties, and claimed that anyone who argues otherwise is essentially helping that objective. Osama Bin Laden used Saudi people for 9/11 to destroy US-Saudi relations; doing our best to not let it happen again, PTI quoted MBS as saying.
The Trump administration has been secretly working in consultation with Russia to draft a new plan to end the war in Ukraine, US and Russian officials have said. Axios reported that the US plan is likely to have 28 points  inspired by the US president's successful push for a deal in war-torn Gaza.

It's not yet clear how Ukraine and its European backers will feel about it, the Axios report added.

The 28-point US plan Sources told Axios that the plan's 28 points fall into four general buckets: peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, security in Europe, and future US relations with Russia and Ukraine.

A US official reportedly stated that Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, is leading the drafting of the plan and has discussed it extensively with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev.

Also Read | Ukraine to buy 100 Rafale jets, air defence systems from France over 10 years

Dmitriev said in an interview on Monday that he spent three days meeting with Witkoff and other members of Trump's team during his visit to Miami from 24 to 26 October.

We feel the Russian position is really being heard, Dmitriev was quoted as saying.

Meeting with Zelenskyy US and Ukrainian officials also said that Witkoff was expected to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Wednesday in Turkey, but postponed his trip.

Witkoff reportedly discussed the plan with Zelensky's national security adviser, Rustem Umerov, in a meeting earlier this week in Miami. We know the Americans are working on something, the Ukrainian official said.

Also Read | Top Ukrainian ministers submit their resignations as the country is rocked by a corruption scandal

The president has been clear that it is time to stop the killing and make a deal to end the war. President Trump believes that there is a chance to end this senseless war if flexibility is shown, a White House official told Axios.

The aim of US' plan Dmitriev told Axios that the basic idea was to take the principles Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin agreed to in Alaska in August and produce a proposal to address the Ukraine conflict, but also how to restore US-Russia ties [and] address Russia's security concerns.

Also Read | Trump Chuckles As Hungary PM Says Ukraine Needs A 'Miracle' To Win Russia War

It's actually a much broader framework, basically saying, 'How do we really bring, finally, lasting security to Europe, not just Ukraine,' he was quoted as saying.

He said the aim is to produce a written document along those lines before Trump and Putin next meet.

What to watch now A US official confirmed that the White House had begun briefing European officials on the new plan, in addition to briefing the Ukrainians.

The official stated that the White House believes there's a real chance of securing the support of the Ukrainians and Europeans, and noted that the plan would be adapted based on input from the various parties.
For 33 years, the Securities and Exchange Board of India (Sebi) operated without a legally enforceable ethics code for its own people, even as it wielded the power to penalize market participants for far lesser infractions. So the question isn't whether its high-level committee's latest plan to replace the existing toothless voluntary code with a transparent, legally-binding framework for its senior leaders, is necessary. It's why that took so long.

The answer likely lies in an uncomfortable truth about India's regulatory culture: senior positions are often treated as earned privileges rather than fiduciary responsibilities demanding accountability. The delay in reform wasn't mere bureaucratic inertia. It reflects a deeper institutional reluctance to impose on regulators the same stringent standards they enforce on others; a reluctance that became unsustainable only when controversies threatened the regulator's credibility at a moment when it could least afford it.

The credibility crisis couldn't have come at a worse time. India added over 60 million new retail investors post-pandemic, fundamentally changing the profile of investors who depend on Sebi for maintaining a level-playing field in the markets. These aren't sophisticated institutional players with legal teams and risk management frameworks who can absorb governance scandals as part of doing business. When allegations about a regulator's conflicts of interest trend on social media, and are debated by newly-minted investors, the stakes become existential in ways they simply weren't earlier. Increased retail participation in the markets has made regulatory credibility a mass concern, not an elite one.

The recent controversies perfectly illustrate the systemic failure. The Madhabi Puri Buch episode of 2024, involving allegations of receiving retirement benefits from an ICICI Bank-related entity and questions about her husband's income from a firm related to Mahindra & Mahindra while Sebi handled related cases, was what might have provided the final nudge for change. The allegations, regardless of their merit, exposed a fundamental flaw: Sebi lacked mandatory public disclosure requirements for such financial relationships, allowing the appearance of impropriety to fester.

Similarly, the 2008 controversy involving C.B. Bhave's recusal from matters related to National Securities Depository Limited (NSDL), which he previously headed, demonstrated the inadequacy of ad-hoc, internal measures. While Bhave stepped aside, the resulting legal challenges and allegations of undue favour highlighted the crying need for a formal, structural solution: a system that prevents the appearance of a conflict, not just the fact of it.

The present set of proposals - and we have to be mindful that they are just that at this point - acknowledges that existing codes were inadequate, marred by inconsistent definitions of key terms like 'family' and 'conflict of interest,' and critically lacking in legal muscle to ensure compliance.

If implemented, the proposed reforms will bring Sebi in line with global best practices. Regulators like the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and the UK's Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) have had robust, legally-mandated ethics requirements for decades. When Henry Paulson transitioned from Goldman Sachs to head the US Treasury in 2006, he had to divest investments worth over $400 million. That wasn't a mere bureaucratic requirement. It reflected a fundamentally different philosophy; that public service at the highest levels demands genuine sacrifice of wealth-building opportunities. This principle, that senior officials must demonstrably shed conflicts rather than merely manage them, underpins regulatory credibility.

Does India's regulatory culture accept this bargain? The question matters because the proposed framework demands exactly such sacrifice. The new three-pronged approach, built around the proposed Office of Ethics and Compliance (OEC), mandates radical transparency. The chairman, whole-time members, and officials down to the chief general manager level will face mandatory public declarations of assets and liabilities. Top officials will be treated as "insiders" under Sebi's trading regulations, forcing them to liquidate or freeze existing investments upon joining. In addition there will be a two-year cooling-off period when former senior officials will be barred from immediately appearing before or against the regulator.

Going forward, the process requires the Sebi Board to approve the recommendations, followed by regulatory amendments. Its urgent that it happens quickly. These reforms will not prevent every controversy. But they will create the institutional infrastructure that the regulator needs to build the unimpeachable credibility its position demands.
Bangladesh is far behind India in terms of economic complexity and tech capability. But its per capita income is close to ours, thanks to robust exports that leveraged its underdevelopment to secure low-duty access to key Western markets. Indian investments in textile and garment production across the border have granted our investors an easier path to such markets than is possible directly from here.
(Bloomberg) -- Mexican authorities arrested the alleged mastermind behind the murder of an outspoken local mayor that has shined a spotlight on persistent cartel-fueled violence. But the detention is unlikely to quiet growing outrage with President Claudia Sheinbaums crime-fighting results.

Insecurity fueled by the countrys hyper-violent gangs is among the thorniest challenges faced by Sheinbaum as she enters her second year in office.

Carlos Manzo, the mayor of Uruapan in Michoacan state, had promoted a harder-line approach to fighting the cartels before he was gunned down by a 17-year-old assassin in a crowded plaza earlier this month. His killing is just the latest brazen hit blamed on powerful drug gangs, provoking widespread anger and leading to massive street protests across the country.

Security Minister Omar Garcia Harfuch announced the arrest of Jorge Armando N,describing him as ordering the hit. The minister told reporters at a press conference that he has links to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, one of the countrys most notorious criminal groups. Detainee surnames are commonly withheld by authorities in Mexico.

Garcia Harfuch added that the murder was ordered even if it might also kill innocent bystanders.

Before the attack, Jorge Armando... told the killers they should shoot even if Carlos Manzo was around other people, no matter who, he said. Minutes before Manzo was shot seven times, he was seen holding his toddler son in his arms during a Day of the Dead festival in Uruapan.

Going out of his way to show the governments commitment to investigating high-profile crimes, Sheinbaums security chief provided a minute-by-minute breakdown of the four suspects implicated in the murder, citing messages recovered from two phones.

The teenager who pulled the trigger was killed at the scene, and two other suspects were found dead last week on the side of a highway, where the phones were recovered.

Garcia Harfuch pledged further action, including more arrests.

This criminal network that commits homicides, extortion and uses young people to generate violence in the region will be completely dismantled, he said.

While Manzo was guarded by local police as well as a contingent of federal guards, the minister did not provide details on their whereabouts at the time of the shooting.

Sheinbaum needs to show progress in the murder investigation and Mexicos broader scourge of lawlessness or face even more public discontent, following major street protests across the country last weekend that threaten to chip away at the leftist leaders support.

Juan Carlos Villarreal, a political scientist at the Autonomous University of Mexico State, sees the alleged masterminds arrest as a way for the government to show its taking action and potentially distract the public from the recent demonstrations.

Since Manzos murder, Sheinbaum launched a new security plan for Michoacan including the deployment of 10,000 National Guard troops in a bid to quell the violence. The state is especially battered by extortion networks that target its lucrative avocado and lime industries.

Nearly three weeks after Manzos assassination, Sheinbaum continues to field questions about insecurity in Michoacan at her daily morning press conference. With another street march planned for Thursdays nationwide Revolution Day holiday, pressure on her to show better results will likely grow.

The pressure is also coming from President Donald Trump, who earlier this week again mulled the possibility of direct strikes on the cartels, saying it would be ok with him if the US military were to carry out attacks in Mexican territory.

Trump pointed to the recent street protests as a sign Sheinbaums government isnt doing enough to fight the violence.

--With assistance from Alex Vasquez.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
HONG KONG (AP)  The Dutch government said its relinquishing control of Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, easing a standoff between China and the Netherlands that threatened supplies of semiconductors vital for global auto manufacturing.

Economics Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans said Wednesday that he was suspending an earlier order to take control of Nexperia under a rarely invoked law.

The Dutch government cited national security concerns and serious governance shortcomings when it took effective control of Nexperia, which is headquartered in the city of Nijmegen but owned by Chinas Wingtech Technology. Officials said they were trying to prevent the loss of crucial tech know-how that could threaten Europes economic security.

Nexperia chips are widely used by carmakers in North America, Japan and South Korea. Automakers warned in recent weeks that they were running low on the chips, and Honda was forced to shut down a factory in Mexico producing its popular HR-V crossover for North American markets.

Karremans said he was suspending his order issued in late September as a show of goodwill in a decision that came after constructive meetings with Chinese authorities over the past few days.

In light of recent developments, The Netherlands has considered it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act, he said in a statement.

We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world."

The Netherlands issued its seizure order after the United States put Wingtech on its entity list of companies that face export controls, and then expanded it in September to include subsidiaries including Nexperia.

The boardroom battle included the ousting of Nexperias Chinese CEO, and Wingtech founder, Zhang Xuezheng. American officials had told the Dutch government he would have to be replaced to avoid trade restrictions, according to a court filing.

Beijing responded by blocking the export of Nexperia chips from its Chinese factory in early October, a ban it lifted in recent days as part of the U.S.-China trade truce following U.S. President Donald Trumps meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

Nexperia did not respond immediately to a request for comment. It wasnt clear from Karremans statement who will be in control of operations.

While both governments have made conciliatory gestures, there were signs of tension within the company in recent days. Nexperias Chinese unit accused the Dutch headquarters last week of halting shipments of wafers used to make chips at its assembly center in China, which it said could affect its ability to deliver finished products.

___
(Bloomberg) -- The European Union unveiled a sweeping plan to reduce digital regulation as the bloc strives to boost its competitiveness in artificial intelligence and aid local technology companies.

The proposal calls for delaying rules on high-risk AI systems for as much as 16 months, streamlining the process to report cybersecurity incidents, and easing data protection regulations to facilitate training AI models, according to a statement Wednesday from the EUs executive arm, the European Commission.

The plan comes after a push by European and American tech companies, the Trump administration and members of the bloc to reform regulations seen as over-reaching and poorly defined. Critics say the blocs AI rules are too complicated and contradictory, and warn Europe could fall further behind the US and China in the emerging technology.

By cutting red tape, simplifying EU laws, opening access to data and introducing a common European Business Wallet we are giving space for innovation to happen and to be marketed in Europe, the EUs technology czar Henna Virkkunen said in the statement, referring to a tool that will allow businesses and governments to digitize tasks that currently need to be done in person.

The proposal, which needs the approval of European governments and lawmakers, is the seventh the commission has floated in less than a year as part of a deregulation drive aimed at reviving the EUs sluggish growth.

French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, who represent the EUs two biggest economies, lent support to parts of the proposal at a digital sovereignty summit in Berlin this week.

Some provisions of the AI Act are already in effect, and requirements for so-called high-risk AI systems are set to come into force next August if the proposal isnt approved.

In a much-cited 2024 report on European competitiveness, former Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi singled out the blocs extensive digital rulebook as a drag on local technology companies performance. He later called for pausing the implementation of the AI Act.

More stories like this are available on bloomberg.com
A security flaw on WhatsApp has led to all of the approximately 3.5 billion phone numbers on the platform being compromised, according to researchers from the University of Vienna. The researchers further say that they were able to access profile photos of users in 57% of the cases and even the text on their profiles for 29% of the users.

Notably, WhatsApp and its parent company Meta were made aware of the vulnerability by a different research in 2017. However, the tech giant says that University of Vienna researchers used a different enumeration method than the one revealed in 2017.

The researchers warned that if the data had been collected by bad actors, it would have become the largest data leak in history, even eclipsing the 2021 Facebook scraping incident where around 500 million records were compromised.

Also Read | EU Proposes Streamlined Digital Rules to Boost Competitiveness

The dataset contains phone numbers, timestamps, about text, profile pictures and public keys for E2EE encryption, and its release would entail adverse implications to the included users, the researchers confirmed in their study.

Aljosha Judmayer, one of the researchers who worked on the study, told WIRED, To the best of our knowledge, this marks the most extensive exposure of phone numbers and related user data ever documented.

The researchers say they made WhatsApp aware of the vulnerability in April 2025 and while the company didnt show much interest in the problem early on, it eventually worked with them to fix the issue and enabled a stricter rate-limiting measure by October.

What was the vulnerability with WhatsApp? WhatsApp has a basic feature called contact discovery: when you upload your address book, the app tells you which of your contacts use WhatsApp. The researchers found that since WhatsApp had no effective rate-limiting, the same feature could be used to scan huge ranges of phone numbers.

And once a number was confirmed to be on WhatsApp, the same loophole could also be used to retrieve other publicly available information like profile picture, profile text, device type and linked companion devices.

Meta's reply to security vulnerability Meta acknowledged the security issue in a statement to 9to5Mac. A spokesperson for the company said, We are grateful to the University of Vienna researchers for their responsible partnership and diligence under our Bug Bounty programme. This collaboration successfully identified a novel enumeration technique that surpassed our intended limits, allowing the researchers to scrape basic publicly available information.
Plastic surgeons in Washington DC are worried about a new demand surging in the elite circles of the US capital -- many are now wanting makeovers that give them the so-called 'Mar-a-Lago' face, a beauty standard apparently preferred by US President Donald Trump.

As per a report by Axios, which has spoken to several plastic surgeons in the city, some of the people in his inner circle are opting for the 'foghorn luxury' associated with Trump rather than the 'quiet luxury' that was in vogue during the times of his predecessors.

Also Read | Why tech bros are getting face-lifts now

The publication spoke with Troy Pittman, a plastic surgeon who has worked with a number of Trump insiders. He has pointed to this stark contrast in the aesthetics of the who's who of DC, who have now become 'people who want to look like they had something done'.

Pittman pointed out to the publication that earlier people were very hush-hush about the procedures they have done, but now they intend on chatting with each other regarding the same and also passing on recommendations of doctors.

Anita Kulkarni, another such plastic surgeon, told Axios that people now want "a more done look, like that Mar-a-Lago face," wherein it becomes noticable that they have indeed done something to their facial features.

Kulkarni, who has turned down many such potential clients with the 'Mar-a-Lago face' request, said "you lose sight of anatomic normalcy" if you keep making changes to your face.

MAGA elites like Kristi Noem, Kimberly Guilfoyle, and Laura Loomer are some of the people who can be considered the prototypes for the 'Mar-a-Lago' face, as per The Guardian.

To my eye, if I put any more in there, youre going to cross over from looking like the best version of yourself to looking like Maleficent. I have to say no in a way that I have never seen before, Kulkarni told The Guardian.

Interestingly, this trend is only being seen among white Americans, and not people of colour.

The Guardian spoke to another DC-based surgeon, Dr Kelly Bolden, who mainly works with people of colour and has revealed that she has not seen such 'Mar-a-Lago' requests from her clientele.
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Paul Prior is from Longford and has studied music in Trinity College Dublin and piano performance at the Royal Irish Academy of Music (RIAM). He is the house pianist and musical director of the award-winning EGG.

Last year, in February 2024, he featured in an RTE interview called Something For The Weekend: Paul Prior's Cultural Picks where it revealed that he has also written for the RTE National Symphony Orchestra. Paul came to chat about the unique situation in how it happened.



Having a strong background in music technique and the theory behind it, Paul is also a passionate music teacher at the Music Academy, Baldoyle, which hires highly trained and dedicated staff members to guide new and experienced students through their own musical journeys.

With a love for creative projects and being involved in the industry, Paul spoke to us about his life growing up in Longford, his music influences and to now being a Dublin-based musician with a vast portfolio.

Read more: 'People do things a lot faster with ChatGPT': Innovative Longford business making waves





Where in Longford are you from?

I am from Lanesboro, specifically Tullyvrane. If youre driving out of Lanesboro to Ballymahon and take the Cashel turn, its around there.





How did you start getting into music?

I was actually a latecomer to music. I didnt do much until I was well into secondary school. My grandmother was a musician, my mum sang. Nobody was serious about it or a regular performer. Now, I can tell that all my family are musical, have a good ear, tapping out rhythms. I was the first to do anything with it in my teenage years. When I heard Someone Like You in 2011 by Adele, I liked the piano. There was a keyboard in the attic that our grandmother gave us when we were young. There was a YouTube video, it was relatively easy. There was satisfaction when I heard music and reproduced it.

It sparked something in me. I started lessons; within a year, I sat my Grade 8 and got a distinction. In later life, in my 20s, I got diagnosed with autism, but when I first found music, it was like my brain was wired to speak a language that I didnt know existed. Once I learnt music, everything made sense to me in an interesting way. It took off and I never looked back.



My dad was speaking to a colleague, Valerie, and told her I was doing my Grade 8 exam. He showed her a video of me playing. I often joke it was because I was addicted to it; for me, I did three hours every day. I was obsessed with it. Yeah, it was crazy.



Were you involved in any clubs in your youth in Longford?

Not a huge amount, no. When I was young, there was a Saturday club in the convent in Lanesboro. They did chess classes and dancing. I dont remember the context. But I remember speaking in front of parents with five of us reading a poem. I was crying with laughter and nerves. In school, I went to Mercy Ballymahon; it was very sport-oriented. Sometimes, when there was a special service, there was a choir for that. I loved that Christmas choir. But there was nothing I did year-round outside of music.



Libby Malone was my music teacher in school. She was fab, she was brilliant. Because I started piano halfway through secondary school before my junior cert, I decided I wanted to do it for my Leaving Cert. In TY, I went to classes. She was so supportive and helpful. I did my piano lessons outside school with Maria McCann!

Would you tell me about writing for the RTE National Symphony Orchestra?

My original goal was going to be a classical pianist. Then, in my final year of college, I was doing prep for the Dublin International Piano Competition. I damaged my wrist, bad technique. When I was away, the way that world is structured and how the wheels turned didnt resonate with me. Do competitions, win competitions and people notice you. Music is so subjective. You could do a great performance. It was hard to deal with the rejection.



I did a class in college called Programming for Musicians, how computers make music. Maybe I should do a conversion course in computer science. After a while, I talked myself down; I didnt see myself that didnt centre music. Okay, how about I do the best of both worlds?



After I graduated, I did a one-year course in Pulse College; you could sit in professional recordings. Eimear Noone was filming a score for an animated film.



Eimears husband forgot to put the harp pedalling in. I said send me the file. They took me as an intern, and prepared the parts for the symphony orchestras. This was over the pandemic.

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If you look at the conductor, my job was to get one of the instruments, extract it and put it in its own booklet. If youre in a recording studio, for the film, think about the hourly cost like  3,000-4,000 an hour.



Every musician is on union wage. Space, engineers. It adds up. Even the seven seconds of the violin section like an A sharp or natural. All parts had to be perfect. After I did this, they had a concert coming up for the RTE National Symphony, recording in the RDS, Christmas 2021. I remember doing some pieces for the video game Fortnite. We were doing music from it, and had the scores sent over. I was the first to look through them. I flicked through all of them. I looked at them and realised that itd been written for an electronic situation, a DAW. If played live, as Eimear was going to conduct it, itd have a solo clarinet in lowest register against a string orchestra.

I had 24 hours to reorchestrate the entire piece. Thats how I got to write for the National Symphony Orchestra. The music is arguably simple, but making sure everything is perfect, you cant defend yourself. The pressure is incredible. I got to sit and watch Christmas orchestra with my family on the TV and say I wrote that.





I read that you are part of a cabaret called EGG. May you tell me about it, anything youve done recently with them?

In 2021, I got a tip about someone looking for a pianist for a theatre show. I applied. I started working for them. By lunchtime, it was like we wanted you to be the musical director, not rehearsal pianist. Within a few months, I asked about setting up a cabaret show and being a house pianist. I didnt know what to expect. We set up the show called EGG. It sold out in 24 hours. We did the first show; it was a huge success. Every two-three months, well do an EGG. A Panto EGG, an Easter EGG. Drag queens, comedians, musicians. Its hilarious because its so chaotic in a fun way. We dont audition, and we tell them to go for it for fifteen minutes.



We see it for the first time with the audience. I play on and off stage. I get to get the best seat in the house, juggling stuff, breathing fire, moving, heartfelt and getting my mind blown every time. We did a bigger one for the Dublin Fringe Festival. We got to do it on a larger scale in the National Stadium, a bar in the back. It reminded me of being in my Ballymahon days; brown, rural walls. It was so perfect to EGG-ify it. We won a bunch of awards, and then we took it to the Pale Festival. EGG is the gift that keeps giving. I love doing it.

Read more: Schedule Longford Creatives next open mic night in Lyons Bar





Any advice for Longford musicians who want to get themselves out there?

I would say the best piece of advice Ive ever gotten as a creative and getting work is you have to be 100% sure of what you are using to fuel your creativity and whats driving you.



Ive seen it two ways. The ideal way to make work, youre coming from the mind set is its beautiful, I want to offer it to people, to see themselves in it. The other is looking for something from people; approval from them. You want them to think youre amazing.



If youre trying to move in that way, youre burning yourself out. Youre going to fail, completely mess up. If something fails, if people dont like it, its okay.
Businesswomen from across Longford, Laois, Offaly, and Westmeath gathered at Gloster House in Birr recently to celebrate National Womens Enterprise Day (NWED), Irelands largest event for female entrepreneurs. Now in its 19th year, this annual initiative by the Local Enterprise Offices (LEOs) was bigger than ever, with 15 events nationwide covering topics from improving online presence to building more sustainable businesses.



The Midlands event brought together over 150 businesswomen for a morning of talks, networking, and shared learning. Organised collaboratively by the Local Enterprise Offices of Longford, Laois, Offaly and Westmeath, the event featured an impressive line-up of speakers from across the region.

Read more: Top award for Longford: Progressive Lanesboro Triathlon Club wins national accolade



Event Ambassador, Gretchen Donovan, founder of Glass Innovations Ltd., opened the event. A qualified Mechanical Engineer, Gretchen pioneered a unique glassware painting machine during her career in the UK before establishing Glass Innovations in 2001. Her company fills a gap in the Irish market by providing high-quality, scalable glass decoration solutions for leading brands in the drinks, beauty, and retail sectors. Gretchens expertise in innovation, quality, and brand enhancement made her a fitting ambassador for NWED.



Other speakers included:

-Dr. Anne Cusack, an award-winning entrepreneur and co-founder of Critical Healthcare, with decades of experience scaling businesses internationally.

-Rebecca Lyons, creative founder of two thriving design-led businesses, sharing her journey of resilience, innovation, and brand growth.



The event opened with a live performance by Yvonne OToole, setting an inspiring tone for the day.



NWED promotes and encourages female entrepreneurship across Ireland. It showcases the opportunities, resources, and supports available to female business owners, including funding, training, and mentorship provided by the Local Enterprise Offices in partnership with Enterprise Ireland.



Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh said, Events like this show the strength and ambition of women driving enterprise in the Midlands. Their success is our regions success. We are committed to creating an environment where every entrepreneur has the support to thrive and make a lasting impact.

Read more: Close to countdown: Longford shoppers can get ready for Lidl in Ballymahon



Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon said, Events such as National Womens Enterprise Day provide a significant platform to highlight the achievements of so many women in business while also providing female entrepreneurs with the tools and confidence to scale their businesses. Longford County Council and Local Enterprise Office, Longford will continue to champion initiatives that foster innovation and inclusivity across the business community.



Michael Nevin, Head of Enterprise at Local Enterprise Office, Longford said, The success of National Womens Enterprise Day 2025 demonstrates the importance of visibility, growth, and insight in driving forward Longfords female entrepreneurs.
Councillor Sean Mimnagh has asked Longford County Council for a review of the current maintenance and upkeep schedules of public playgrounds around the county.

The Leas Cathaoirleach of Ballymahon Municipal District put forward the motion at the November meeting of Longford County Council.

The motion reveals that "the review should include but not be limited to, grass cutting, hedge trimming, and power washing to ensure that all facilities are maintained to a high standard, providing safe, clean and welcoming environments for both children and parents across the county."

Proposing the motion, Councillor Mimnagh stated, "First off, I'd like to thank the community development staff for their maintenance of the playgrounds but they can only do so much, lawn cutting has been a particular issue, when a lawnmower breaks down then it isn't replaced so the council needs to start looking after this."

He also put forward the suggestion of "exploring the possibility of collaborating with the Community Employment (CE) schemes to get more workers involved to help the maintenance become more viable."

Longford currently has the second highest ratio of playgrounds per person in the country after Dublin so their maintenance was a pressing issue for the councillors throughout the discussion of the motion.

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Cllr Seamus Butler said, "We've had a programme in place for a number of years in the urban areas of Longford, as often there's a certain amount of abuse towards the upkeep of the playgrounds which is primarily carried out by adults."

Cllr Mick Cahill echoed the sentiments saying, "It's a very good motion, they need plenty of upkeep because not everybody respects the playgrounds like they should."

Councillor Martin Skelly stated, "I commend the notice of motion on the playground, it's so important to have them in safe and proper conditions at all times for parents and their kids."

Speaking in support of the motion, Cllr Paul Ross commented, "I'd like to acknowledge the motion and it's great that we have the second highest proportion of playgrounds in the country but they need to be constantly maintained."

Cllr Colin Dalton reiterated the need for more resources adding: "It's a great motion, we have absolutely fantastic playgrounds in this county but there needs to be funding in place for mowers and strimmers in order to keep them looked after.

A representative from the Community Development Department, which looks after playgrounds in Longford, outlined the current situation regarding their maintenance in a response to the motion by Cllr Mimnagh.

"There are 26 playgrounds and 3 outdoor gyms being maintained by Longford County Council and an independent report is arranged at the start of each year which prioritises the maintenance issues in each playground to ensure our playgrounds are deemed safe from a health and safety standpoint," read the reply.

Councillors were also informed that a maintenance contractor has been procured for maintenance work looking after various issues such as replacing broken swings, new bearings, broken springs and new wet pour surface installation amongst other things.

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The reply, also stated that other maintenance works such as grass cutting, hedge trimming and power washing are required in a limited number of playgrounds around the county.

These works are carried out by local community groups, CE schemes and Longford County Council outdoor staff where resources are available.

The response to Councillor Mimnagh's motion concludes: "While the cost of the playground maintenance has increased significantly in recent years, the council will review the areas highlighted to ensure that these are included on the maintenance schedule on a priority basis each year."
There have only ever been 7 women elected to Longford County Council, and currently just two of the 18 councillors are women.



See Her Elected (SHE) wants to change that.

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Although the next local elections wont take place until 2029, SHE is urging women in Longford to start preparing now. In the last local elections, only 10 of the 39 candidates who ran in Longford were women. Nationally women hold almost 27% or 256 council seats, out of 949 seats across the 31 local authorities. See Her Elected wants to see that number grow  and to see more women elected in 2029.

To support this, SHEs free, online Election Workshops will begin in January 2026. The workshops are open to women who are curious about how local politics works, thinking about running for election, or keen to get involved in another womans campaign.

Programme Manager, Dr Michelle Maher, explained:



Were targeting women living in rural Ireland because they know what needs to be done to make our communities better. Whether youre just politically curious, inspired by recent events, or determined to run for office  these workshops are for you. Politics needs you, so start with SHE. Well show you exactly whats involved.



Dr Maher added:



Our Election Workshops offer practical, friendly, and accessible support. If you can see yourself as a candidate or part of a campaign team for the 2029 local elections, sign up at www.seeherelected.ie.



Running from January to June, the one-hour online workshop will be repeated four times each month at different times to suit all schedules  7am, 10am, 1pm, and 8pm. Hosted through the SHE Academy, these flexible sessions allow participants to choose the time that fits best with their lives.



The workshops also complement SHEs newly updated Guide to Running in the 2029 Local Elections  the only book of its kind in Ireland. Every participant receives a free copy, packed with step-by-step advice on every aspect of planning and running a successful election campaign.

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SHE is part of Longfords Womens Link and is funded by the Department of Housing, Local Government and Heritage.

Everyone participating in our workshops is understood to hold the same values as See Her Elected, and a copy of the Values Statement is available on the website
Japan "totally unqualified" to seek permanent seat on UN Security Council: Chinese envoy

Xinhua) 08:13, November 19, 2025

Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, speaks at the UN General Assembly's annual debate on Security Council reform, at the UN headquarters in New York, Nov. 18, 2025. Japan is totally unqualified to seek a permanent seat on the Security Council, said Fu Cong, China's permanent representative to the United Nations, at the UN General Assembly's annual debate on Security Council reform on Tuesday. (Xinhua/Xie E)

UNITED NATIONS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Japan is "totally unqualified" to seek a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, China's permanent representative to the United Nations Fu Cong said on Tuesday.

Speaking at the UN General Assembly's plenary meeting on Security Council reform, Fu said that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently made a "brazen, provocative" statement on Taiwan at the Japanese Diet. She claimed that a "Taiwan contingency" could be a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan and implied that Japan may invoke the so-called right to collective self-defense to interfere militarily in the Taiwan Strait.

Takaichi's remarks are "extremely erroneous and dangerous," and constitute a gross interference in China's internal affairs and a serious breach of the one-China principle and the spirit of the four political documents between China and Japan, said Fu.

"They are an affront to international justice, damage the post-war international order, trample on the basic norms of international relations, and represent a blatant departure from Japan's commitment to peaceful development," he noted.

"Such a country is totally unqualified to seek a permanent seat on the Security Council," said the ambassador.

Fu underscored that throughout its history, Japanese militarists have repeatedly used the so-called "survival-threatening situation" as a pretext to launch foreign aggression, including the Sept. 18 Incident in 1931, under the pretext of the right of self-defense, which provoked a war of aggression against China and brought profound suffering to the Chinese people and people around the world.

"Now, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi again raised the issue of 'survival-threatening situation.' What is her true intention? Is Japan going to repeat its past mistakes of militarism?" Fu asked.

The ambassador said Takaichi has also consistently advocated for removing the "renunciation of war" clause from Japan's pacifist constitution. "Given the egregious behavior from Takaichi, how can we trust Japan's professed commitment to peaceful development? How can the international community trust Japan to uphold fairness and justice? How can we trust Japan to shoulder the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security?" he said.

Fu stressed that Japan should immediately stop interfering in China's internal affairs, retract its wrongful, provocative remarks and actions, and refrain from "playing with fire" on the Taiwan question. "Otherwise, Japan should be prepared to bear all the consequences."

"If Japan dares to attempt an armed intervention in the cross-Strait situation, it would be an act of aggression and would definitely be met with a firm response from China. We will exercise our right to self-defense under the UN Charter and international law and resolutely defend China's sovereignty and territorial integrity," Fu stated.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia welcomed the arrival of a new pair of giant pandas, "Chen Xing" and "Xiao Yue," with the pair touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday.

The new pair were born in 2020. The male "Chen Xing" is described as robust and outgoing, while the female "Xiao Yue" is rounder and more docile.

The pair will be hosted at Zoo Negara, the country's national zoo, where they will undergo quarantine before being introduced to the Malaysian public.

In May 2014, China and Malaysia launched their first round of international cooperation on giant panda conservation. This April, a joint statement signed by both countries announced their agreement to continue cooperative research on giant panda conservation, expressing hopes for further progress in the field.
When my father was dying, he didnt want to do it in hospital. He wanted to be brought back to his beloved Derryharrow, a place he never wanted to be far from. He even thought Dublin was too far away, he would be gone too long, he would do anything to avoid it.



Derryharrow, the townland three miles outside Longford town where he had moved when he left his native Drumlish and where he met my mother (they met eyes over a hedge at her homeplace across the road), was the place he loved the most.

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He had built his house with his own hands, and cleared the land by himself, crafting a livelihood for himself, my mother, and us six children. It was hard work, but everyone chipped in.



I remember a very happy childhood in the meadows, our glee at making the frogs lives a misery as we chased them, and our delight when we found a corncrakes nest, even then they were rare enough and we knew to steer well clear. And on the bog, over a little fire, where my father made his legendary tea in an old teapot, blackened with smoke. He would add a sprig of heather to it to give it a unique taste.



It was magical. And Frank Devine was great company, always happy to talk about life and politics.



As his life entered its final days - a sudden decline that came as a great shock to the family - we were at our wits end at the thought of losing him, as well as how to make his leaving as painfree and as comfortable as possible. We all scrambled to find out how to manage it. Nobody in the family had any experience of the sort that was needed. Bringing peace to him throughout his slow withdrawal from life was a daunting task.



And then, out of the blue, people we didnt know started turning up at our busy little house, checking on him, and advising us what to do. At first, I thought they had been sent by the family doctor, or were public health nurses. It turned out they were from County Longford Hospice Homecare.



From the moment they arrived, all we had to do was think of spending time with Dad, they did everything else. We were left free to just love him.



I remember a wonderful woman arriving to stay overnight, she was so calming. It meant we could all get some sleep. Someone was on watch.



So when I met the indomitable Mary Fallon, another fantastic woman and who also taught me in Melview NS, selling woolly goods outside SuperValu in Longford as we were emerging from the Covid lockdowns, I walked in a trance to the stall, such is the effect wool  as a life-long crafter - has on me!



When she told me that she and a small group of women had made everything on the stall and were selling to raise funds for County Longford Hospice Homecare, of course, I signed up. I have been making things for them ever since.



Mary, the founder of Crafters for County Longford Hospice Homecare, and our small crew have raised more than 8,775 since April 2022, funds that go directly to the hospice to help them provide the help and loving care that my father and my family received when he was passing.



It wasnt just medical expertise they brought to our house then. They brought love, calm, and acceptance to my father and our devastated family that sad last week in June 2000.

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Last Christmas, I crocheted a willow square blanket, a piece people have repeatedly asked me to make because it goes with everything. It was raffled, and turned out to be a very happy revenue generator for us.



I have made another one for this year. It will be raffled as part of this years Crafters fundraising drive, which takes place on Friday, November 21, at the entrance to Dunnes Store, Dublin Road, Longford. Tickets are on sale from 8:30am to 8:30pm and range in price from 2 to 20.



The blanket will be on display there on the day, as well as hampers stuffed with goods handmade by our busy little crew: from knitted Paw Patrol characters and cross-stitched pictures featuring festive scenes to Christmas decorations and paper angel ornaments made from the pages of old books.



The willow square blanket was in the making on and off for about a year, crocheted in short bursts in coffee shops, planes, parks across London, Longford, Sligo, Donegal, Greece, Spain, and Portugal. I finished it a few weeks ago.



I thought of my dad a lot while making it, having little chats with him, remembering moments we had together the little stubbly pencils he always carried with him that he used to write on the back of Sweet Afton packets, the contents of which did for him in the end.



His obsession with drawing donkeys, delighted with himself when hed ask me, what do you think of that one now. They were usually very spindly looking things, but of course I told him they were wonderful. The way he was on first name terms with all his livestock, he named them all.



Dad loved nature, and it didnt come as a surprise to me when a little bird flew into his funeral mass and whistled and sang around and over his coffin as it rested at the altar in Saint Mels Cathedral.



I thought of him while crocheting the blanket because crochet isnt just about making stuff. When crocheters are working on something for someone, they also think of that person while doing it, wondering how they will like it, hoping it provides snuggles, comfort, and warmth.

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Thats what it means when handcrafters say their work is made with love.



Thank you to all who have bought our crafts over the years. And please support us in Dunnes Stores on Friday, November 21. Gra mor.

* Una Devine started her journalism career in The Longford Leader under the editorship of Eugene McGee. She has worked in print and broadcasting outlets in Dublin, London, and Los Angeles as an editor, presenter, and producer, including the BBC, ITV, Global Radio, and The Big Issue USA and UK
A table quiz fundraiser will be held at The Chestnut Tree pub in Killashee on this Friday night November 21 with Jimmy Flanagan the quiz master on the night.



The event is being organised by the Killashee Roman Catholic Committee, to assist with the upkeep of the Killashee Cemetery throughout the coming year.

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The table quiz will begin at 8.30pm and the price of entry will be 40 for a team of four, while there will also be a raffle with a variety of prizes on offer.



There has already been a significant amount of work carried out such as regular grass cutting and the trimming back of vegetation on the walls trimmed back, removal and disposal of waste no dumping signs erected, main gates removed and brought for restoration works, concrete slab laid at main entrance gate, piers restored and many more projects in the pipeline.



The committee has established a WhatsApp group and people with family members laid to rest here, or others who own plots, are encouraged to join the WhatsApp group and they are also invited to attend Friday night's table quiz. The benefit of doing so is people can be easily informed in real time of grass cutting events and they can lend much appreciated support.

Read more: Crafters for Longford Hospice to host Christmas fundraiser outside Dunnes



If anyone would like to join the WhatsApp group they should contact president Fr Turlough Baxter, chairperson Willie Dennigan secretary Declan Shanley, treasurer Bosco Skelly, PRO Niall Dennigan or any of the committee members Mary Killian and Andrew Donlon.
US soldiers work at the Civil Military Coordination Center in Kiryat Gat, Israel, a joint US-Israeli command hub established to manage the Gaza ceasefire. (US Army photo by Sergeant First Class Malcolm Cohens-Ashley)

Hamas rejected a resolution passed by the United Nations Security Council (UNSC) on November 17 that endorsed key aspects of US President Donald Trumps 20-point plan for ending the Gaza conflict. The resolution included a call for the establishment of both a Board of Peace (BOP), which would temporarily oversee governance of the territory, and an International Stabilization Force (ISF), which would assist in maintaining the ceasefire and preventing Hamass rearmament.

In a vote of 13 in favor, none against, and two abstentions (Russia and China), the UNSC passed Resolution 2803 and explicitly welcomed [the] establishment of the Board of Peace and authorized the Board and Member States working with it to establish a temporary International Stabilization Force in Gaza. While the terms of phase two of the Gaza ceasefire plan have not been negotiated between Hamas and Israel, the UNSC resolution offered some clarity on what it may involve.

US Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz said that the International Stabilization Force would involve a strong coalition of peacekeepers, many from Muslim majority nations like Indonesia, Azerbaijan, and others that would oversee demilitarization and take responsibility for security in Gaza, including the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Hamas officials rejected Resolution 2803 shortly after its passage, claiming that assigning the international force with tasks and roles inside the Gaza Strip, including disarming the resistance, strips it of its neutrality, and turns it into a party to the conflict in favor of the occupation. Hamass rejection of key clauses of the 20-point plan comes after Israeli reports that Hamas and affiliated groups have violated the terms of the first phase nearly 25 times since the ceasefires implementation on October 10.

While Hamas initially agreed to phase one of the 20-point planwhich stipulated an immediate ceasefire, the return of all Israeli hostages, both living and deceased, and the release of nearly 2,000 Palestinian prisoners in exchange for those hostagesthe Iran-backed terror group has not agreed to further aspects of Trumps plan.

If Hamas agrees to further phases, the terror group would be required to disarm. The Board of Peace approved by Resolution 2803 would be tasked with supervising a technocratic, apolitical Palestinian committee that would run day-to-day operations in Gaza. The BOP would also create and oversee an International Stabilization Force that would ensure the process of demilitarizing Gaza, support vetted Palestinian police forces in Gaza, and prevent Hamass rearmament.

The disarmament of Hamas remains a sticking point in the success of further phases of the 20-point plan. Countries that might provide troops for the ISF are cautious and concerned that their soldiers will clash with Hamas, which has yet to be stripped of its weapons.

For example, Jordans King Abdullah II demanded a clarification of the prospective ISFs mandate in October. Peacekeeping is that youre sitting there supporting the local police force, the Palestinians, which Jordan and Egypt are willing to train in large numbers, but that takes time. If were running around Gaza on patrol with weapons, thats not a situation that any country would like to get involved in, Abdullah told the BBC.

In addition, Anwar Gargash, a diplomatic adviser to the Emirati President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed al Nahyan, said in November that the UAE does not yet see a clear framework for the stability forces, and under such circumstances will probably not participate. Separately, an Azerbaijani government source told Reuters that Azerbaijan will only send troops for the ISF if military action is completely stopped, citing concerns about the safety of its personnel.

In contrast, Turkey is readying a brigade of 2,000 soldiers to join the ISF. However, Israel firmly opposes Ankaras participation in any future ISF.

The US is reportedly considering skipping the demilitarization clause of the agreement in favor of the reconstruction of Israeli-controlled areas of Gaza if the formation of the ISF continues to present a challenge. However, Israeli leaders consider this change a non-starter, as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that there will be no such thing [as] so-called non-demilitarization.

In the 20-point plan, and in any other case, this area will be demilitarized, and Hamas will be disarmedeither the easy way or the hard way, Netanyahu added.

Samuel Ben-Ur and Aaron Goren are research analysts at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies. Follow Aaron Goren on X @realaarongoren.
LIVONIA, MICH.  First-year students gathered in Madonna University's Franciscan Center on Nov. 7 for a makeup Franciscan Day of Service session, led by Paula Soter, director of Campus Ministry.

Students worked on several projects, including crafting cards for veterans to thank them for their military service and sacrifice. The 65 homemade cards were distributed at a Veterans Day dinner at the American Legion Post in Livonia, Soter said.

Students also assisted Sister Nancy Marie Jamroz and the Center for Catholic Studies and Interfaith Dialogue by writing letters of thanks to more than 50 places of worship in Livonia. The letters, offering appreciation for the vital role that churches and other places of worship play in the community, will be mailed before Thanksgiving.

Other Franciscan Day of Service projects included creative festive holiday placemats for more than 100 residents of Marywood Nursing Center, and working with Urban Neighborhood Initiatives to remove weeds at Lafayette Playlot, among other local initiatives.

"It is a joy to watch our students come to life when they gather to do service for others," Soter reflected.
In the wake of George Floyds killing in 2020 and the civil unrest that followed, many states and local municipalities passed a series of new laws aimed at bringing more transparency and accountability to police departments.

Boston created the Office of Police Accountability and Transparency (OPAT) that year  an agency whose Civilian Review Board recently sent a letter to Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox stating it has seen widespread refusal by officers and employees to engage in interviews or cooperate with investigations.

The letter, dated Sept. 11, also states that Cox has consistently not respected the recommendations made by the [Civilian Review Board] in regards to discipline matters, and some recommendations remain un-responded to for more than a year.

The Boston Police Department did not return a request for comment.

OPAT Executive Director Evandro Carvalho told MassLive on Tuesday that he expects a response from the leader of the Boston Police Department next week.

While OPAT investigates complaints made against the Boston Police Department, the Civilian Review Board and its nine members, made up of Boston residents, decide on whether discipline or policy changes are warranted.

The oversight board, which has received more than 450 complaints against police, has been stymied by the citys officers, who, in large part, have refused to participate in interviews or cooperate with OPAT investigations.

Some police officers have participated, so its not like nobodys participating, Carvalho said. Generally speaking, they have not been participating, but some have.

Some examples of complaints that OPAT generally sees include abuse of authority and disrespectful treatment, according to Carvalho.

Between July 2024 and June 2025, the Civilian Review Board heard 19 cases and sustained eight cases that encompassed 19 total allegations of misconduct and issued disciplinary recommendations, according to OPATs 2025 Annual Report.

Eleven cases were not sustained, two exonerated, three unfounded, two were insufficient evidence to make a finding, and the board could not reach an agreement on three cases.

The 19 cases were brought from a total of 137 complaints investigated by OPAT. Recommended suspensions ranged from one to 20 days for six officers.

Black Bostonians accounted for 46% of the complaints, the report states.

Black Bostonians represented 45% of arrests and 56% of reported use-of-force incidents, while white Bostonians were significantly underrepresented in these categories, according to the report.

The highest complaint volumes and enforcement activity came from Dorchester, Roxbury and South End neighborhoods.

The most common kinds of complaints were neglect of duty (46%), disrespectful treatment (18%) and abuse of power (12%), according to the 2025 annual report.

Cox responded to four of the eight cases that were sustained; he told OPAT that they were recommended to the departments Internal Affairs Division for further review.

The Civilian Review Boards letter from September notes that Cox has not responded to some recommendations for more than a year, and only a small number of sustained findings with recommendations for discipline have actually led to disciplinary action.

Even then, the discipline taken has been significantly less serious than the recommendation, the letter states.

The Civilian Review Board expressed concern that its findings were referred to the departments Internal Affairs Division and stated that its findings are final.

In one case, a sustained finding by the Civilian Review Board was effectively undone by Cox, the letter states.

We express deep concern that (1) your ignoring and not even responding for more than a year to some CRB recommendations, (2) the CRB recommendations for sustained findings and recommended discipline as well as (3) your submitting these same findings/recommendations for review from IAD for further investigation undermines the values of accountability, transparency, and public trust, the letter states.
116 Norfolk St. in Cambridge and the sidewalk across the street. (Google Maps)

A Cambridge man was arrested last week after police say he stormed into the middle of Norfolk Street and shouted racial slurs at a group of Black schoolchildren, then spat on one of them  a girl on crutches  before he threatened to burn down their school.

His arrest marks at least the third time in five months that police have taken him into custody at the same Norfolk Street location  and each time, he was released after seven days because no lawyer was assigned to represent him.

Dennis McNulty, 60, was arrested on Nov. 10 and charged with a bomb and hijack threat, assault and battery to intimidate and disorderly conduct.

McNulty was previously arrested on Norfolk Street on July 29 and again on Sept. 28 in other separate incidents.

From these incidents  which police said involved him throwing a glass bottle at a person and damaging property  McNulty also faces three counts of threatening to commit a crime, one count each of disorderly conduct and defacing property, and multiple charges involving dangerous weapons, including assault and battery, assault and carrying a weapon.

What happened on Nov. 10?

The incident that led to McNultys latest arrest began around 12:45 p.m. last Monday, according to a Cambridge police report. McNulty had been at an apartment building at 116 Norfolk St.  which hed been evicted from, police said  and was in the lobby destroying the building, punching the door and throwing things, a 911 caller reported.

McNulty left the building and was in the center of Norfolk Street, police said, posturing his body for a physical altercation with several children who were passing by on the sidewalk across the street by the time officers arrived.

The children were students at Prospect Hill Academy Charter School in Cambridge, a pre-K through 12 school located at 50 Essex St., around the corner from Norfolk Street.

As the confrontation escalated, a crowd gathered on the sidewalk and residents leaned out of their doorways to watch, police said.

McNulty ran across Norfolk Street toward the group, bypassing a bystander who tried to intervene and ignoring officers whod just arrived. He screamed a slew of racial slurs at the predominantly Black children, focusing on one girl who was using crutches.

Moments later, McNulty lunged towards the child and spat on her, according to police.

Fearing for the childrens safety, the Cambridge officer ran across the street and grabbed McNulty from behind in a bear-hug, yanking him towards the hood of his cruiser.

McNulty continued shouting racial slurs, threats and swears at the children as they tried to walk away and the officers attempted to calm him, police said.

Suddenly, McNulty screamed toward the group, Yeah f*** you, Ill burn your whole school down b**** with you in it, the police report read. He then looked at the officers and said, Yeah, take it as a f****** threat.

Given how close the childrens school is located to Norfolk Street, many students told administrators they were concerned with their safety commuting to and from school.

The schools principal, Christine Douglas, contacted Cambridge police the day of the incident with video that showed McNulty yelling at the girl he spat on before police arrived, police said. A spokesperson for Prospect Hill Academy Charter School told MassLive its officials were aware of the incident and were working with Cambridge police.

Why was McNulty arrested on Norfolk Street three times in five months?

McNulty was taken into custody and brought to the hospital for a mental evaluation after the incident, according to the police report.

He was arraigned Nov. 12 in Cambridge District Court and assigned a lawyer from the Committee for Public Counsel, court filings show.

A judge ordered his bail set at $250 and he was committed to Middlesex Jail, where he is currently in custody as of Nov. 18, according to the Middlesex Sheriffs Office. McNultys bail for charges related to the incidents in July and September were both revoked.

McNultys suspected incident in July involved a verbal altercation with a person on Norfolk Street during which he made threats, a Cambridge police daily log showed. He kicked and damaged a generator and had a serrated kitchen knife on his person when he was taken into custody, police said.

In September, McNulty was again arrested on Norfolk Street after police said he struck one person in the face with a drumstick and threw a glass bottle at another.

But both of these cases fell under the Lavallee protocol, which requires that a defendant who cannot afford an attorney and isnt assigned one must be released after seven days, with charges dismissed after 45.

Court filings for each case showed various delays, defaults and rescheduling, with counsel appointed only for singular hearing dates at certain points.

Each case also had Lavallee protocol hearings, which forced McNultys release from custody after seven days, whether hed posted bail or not.

Why dont people have lawyers?

Defendants are going without counsel because bar advocate attorneys, or criminal defense lawyers who take on cases for those who cannot afford a lawyer, have stopped taking on new cases since Memorial Day.

This has left thousands of people without counsel throughout the past months and led to hundreds of cases dismissed.

Lawmakers tried to ease the crisis in August by passing a law to raise hourly rates for bar advocates from $65 to $85 by 2027, a move the bar advocates called a slap in the face.

The bill also included language to prevent another bar advocate work stoppage, and a $40 million allocation of funds to the Committee for Public Counsel Services to (CPCS) to hire 320 more lawyers and lessen the agencys heavy reliance on bar advocates.

But with the crisis rolling into late fall, CPCS has taken further action by way of a one-time $2,500 incentive to assist in the prompt assignment of attorneys to criminal defendants with cases in Suffolk and Middlesex district courts or in the Boston Municipal Courts who are currently unrepresented.

The program, which closed at 5 p.m. on Monday, allowed lawyers who chose to participate to receive a maximum total of $7,500 for accepting 15 new cases, on top of their normal hourly rate.

That effort helped drive the count down from more than 2,000 in October to 736 as of Nov. 13  but CPCS was still arguing last week that even stronger medicine is still needed, by way of dismissals with prejudice. This would stop prosecutors from recharging defendants with crimes.
A former assistant United States attorney who prosecuted public corruption cases and led the federal investigation into the Karen Read case announced Tuesday that he is running for Norfolk County District Attorney.

Adam Deitch left his job as a federal prosecutor this month to throw his hat in the ring to replace embattled District Attorney Michael Morrissey, who has held the job since he was elected in 2010. Morrisseys office has come under intense scrutiny in recent years because of the prosecution of Read and its failure to bring charges against Matthew Farwell, the former Stoughton Police officer accused of killing Sandra Birchmore.

Farwell was arrested by the FBI and charged with killing Birchmore last year, fueling more questions about Morrisseys offices handling of the case.

In a statement announcing his campaign, Deitch, now a resident of Quincy, said, Norfolk County deserves someone committed to competence, trust, and professionalism, full stop.

Its clear theres a problem in Norfolk County. Victims are not getting the justice they deserve, the public has lost faith in the system, and someone has to do something about it. Its because I have that experience  putting a microscope to entrenched institutions  that makes me uniquely qualified for this job, in this moment, he said.

Deitch joins several other candidates looking to replace Morrissey. Djuna Perkins, a former Suffolk County prosecutor, announced her candidacy last year, as did Craig MacLellan, a Cohasset School Committee member who also worked as a Suffolk County prosecutor and Jim Barakat, a public defense lawyer.

Its not clear if Morrissey intends to run again. He has served in elective office since 1976, when he was elected to the state Legislature. Morrissey has won every race hes run, though he hasnt had an opponent for district attorney since he was first elected in 2010.

Norfolk County District Attorney Michael Morrissey provides information at a press conference on Friday, Dec. 29, about three domestic violence-related deaths in Dover. David Cifarelli

Campaign finance filings show he has more than $400,000 on hand and has spent about $22,000 in 2025, including paying for a campaign website. Morrissey has been largely absent from the public eye since the controversy around the Read case exploded in 2023.

In addition to the Read case, Deitch helped prosecute several Massachusetts State Police troopers who accepted bribes in exchange for commercial drivers licenses.

Ive seen firsthand what happens when police and prosecutors take shortcuts, rush to judgment, and then stubbornly wont consider other possibilities  innocent people are wrongfully accused, crimes go unsolved, and bad cops are protected while good officers lose faith, Deitch said. Thats what we need to change in Norfolk County.

The federal investigation into the Read case, which officials say was closed in February, did not lead to any indictments.
Richard Miron, accused of illegally prescribing opioids that led to a patient's death, is arraigned in Middlesex Superior Court on Dec. 20, 2018.

Believed to be the first conviction of its kind in Massachusetts, a Dracut doctor has pleaded guilty to involuntary manslaughter after illegally prescribing opioids that prosecutors say caused the death of an at-risk patient.

Richard Miron, 83, ranked as the largest provider of high dose, short acting oxycodone prescriptions among all MassHealth providers in the state between Sept. 2015 and Feb. 2016, according to the Attorney Generals Office.

At the time, he was a solo practitioner of internal medicine based out of Dracut.

After a series of guilty pleas on Nov. 17 in Middlesex County Superior Court, Miron was sentenced to two-and-a-half years in jail  all suspended for five years  and ordered not to practice medicine, state prosecutors announced Tuesday.

Miron was indicted in 2018 on charges connected to the death of a patient that occurred on March 17, 2016. According to prosecutors, the Office of the Chief Medical Examiner determined the patient died of acute intoxication due to the combined effects of fentanyl, morphine, codeine and butalbital  all of which were prescribed by Miron.

Prosecutors said Miron was aware the patient  identified in court documents as Michelle Craib, 50  had previously overdosed on opioids hed prescribed, but he continued to prescribe large doses in the weeks leading up to her death.

According to court records, Craib was discharged on Feb. 2, 2016, from Lowell General Hospital after overdosing  just over a month before she died.

In mid-March, Craib was found dead in her apartment. Her obituary said she was survived by two sons, a granddaughter and many other family members. A celebration of life was held in Tyngsboro.

The investigation by the Attorney Generals Office, then headed by now-Gov. Maura Healey, found Miron had also prescribed opioids  including oxycodone, morphine, fentanyl and hydromorphone  to other patients for no legitimate medical reason, including those with documented substance use disorders.

The illegal prescriptions caused pharmacies to unknowingly falsely bill MassHealth for the medications, according to prosecutors. MassHealth terminated Miron from the program in 2017, and he has not practiced medicine since November 2018, following an agreement with the states Board of Registration in Medicine.

In addition to the involuntary manslaughter charge, Miron also pleaded guilty this week to defrauding MassHealth and illegal prescribing of controlled substances. He was ordered to pay restitution to MassHealth.

In 2018, shortly after Miron was first charged, his lawyer released a statement saying the doctor was shocked and deeply saddened by the charges, the Boston Globe previously reported. The statement said Miron had spent 50 years practicing internal medicine in Chelmsford, Lowell and Dracut  and that he had never been the subject of a complaint before the Board of Registration in Medicine.

During those five decades, Dr. Miron worked very hard to provide exemplary care and treatment to hundreds of area residents, the statement read.

The past two decades have seen laws governing opioid prescribing tightened dramatically in response to the escalating opioid crisis that began in the 1990s with the very liberal prescribing of oxycodone.

In response to overdose deaths, regulators and lawmakers, including those in Massachusetts, have increased physician oversight, added prescribing limits and expanded enforcement tools such as prescription drug monitoring programs.

Around the time Miron was indicted, then-U.S. Attorney Andrew Lelling wrote to an unknown number of medical professionals across the state with a warning: their prescribing practices were being watched because theyd prescribed opioids to a patient within 60 days of their death or to a patient who had died from an opioid overdose.

Several doctors have been prosecuted in Massachusetts since 2015 for illegal opioid prescribing, including cases out of Hyannis, Ludlow, Worcester, Boston and Three Rivers.

The crackdown on doctors caused some  fearful of prosecution  to shy away from prescribing opioids altogether, an unintended consequence that has long been protested by patients with legitimate medical needs who responsibly use opioids for chronic pain management.
Brian Walshe appears in Norfolk Superior Court next to his attorney, Kelli Porges, after pleading guilty to two of three charges filed against him in Dedham, Mass., Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. (Mark Stockwell/Boston Herald via AP, Pool) AP

After an eventful first day of Brian Walshes murder trial, more potential jurors will fill Norfolk Superior Court on Wednesday as the presiding judge and lawyers for both sides work to assemble a 16-person jury for the case.

Before selection started on Tuesday, Walshe pleaded guilty to two lesser charges he faced in connection with the disappearance of his wife, Ana, who prosecutors say he killed and dismembered. Walshe admitted to misleading the police investigation and to disinterring a body.

He would face up to three years in prison on the disinterring a body charge and up to a decade in prison for misleading the police investigation.

On the first day of selection, nine people were selected to serve on the jury for Walshes trial, WCVB reported. Judge Diane Freniere intends to seat 16 jurors. Jury selection will continue each day this week.

Opening statements in the case are expected on Dec. 1, assuming a jury is empaneled before the Thanksgiving holiday.

Walshe is accused of killing and dismembering Ana Walshe on New Years Day 2023 in the Cohasset home they shared with their three children. Prosecutors say he hid his wifes remains in dumpsters in various locations across the state. Ana Walshes body has never been found.

In court papers, prosecutors have said Brian Walshe made a series of Google searches leading up to and after his wifes death, including best state to divorce for a man, dismemberment and best ways to dispose of a body, and can you be charge with murder without a body.

Prosecutors have said Walshe was motivated to kill his wife by the knowledge that she was having an affair with a man in Washington, D.C., where she worked, and by money troubles stemming from a federal art fraud case.

If convicted, Walshe would face life in prison without the possibility of parole.
According to a new Gallup and West Health survey, Massachusetts ranks near the top for national healthcare experiences  but that may be a dubious distinction.

The survey, coined The State of the States 2025: Insights on Healthcare in America, collected responses from nearly 20,000 people nationwide. Data was then separated and ranked states based on cost, quality and access across.

Massachusetts boasts a ranking for #1 for cost satisfaction, #2 overall and #2 for quality of care.

And though it #1 for cost satisfaction may seem like a win, according to a Gallup spokesperson being number one is like being the tallest kid in kindergarten because everyone else is still short.

In its results, Gallup said millions of Americans are confronting growing challenges to their health and financial wellbeing.

Read more: Former Harvard President Larry Summers leaves OpenAI amid Epstein probe

The inaugural study reveals that negative healthcare experiences are widespread in the U.S. but also differ significantly, depending on where people live.

Nationally, about 20% of adults report that someone in their household was unable to afford prescriptions within the past three months and 30% of respondents report household members skipped medical treatment due to cost.

In Massachusetts that share is 18%, the results show, leaning slightly below the national average but still panning out to be almost one in every five residents skipping prescription refills due costs.

Nearly one in three Americans say theyve skipped a needed medical procedure or test in the past year because they couldnt afford it, with rates climbing above 40% in states such as Texas and Montana and Mississippi.

And while Massachusetts receives higher rates the national average, it still falls short.

In Massachusetts:

18% say healthcare costs are a major financial burden, compared with 22% nationally.

8% report cutting pills or stretching prescriptions to save money, versus 15% nationally.

46% are concerned or extremely concerned about paying for health care services in the next year, and 47% say health costs cause daily stress. Nationally, that figure is 52%.

21% say they couldnt afford medicine or skipped a prescribed drug over the past year, compared with 30% nationwide.

Another 21% say they avoided a recommended medical procedure or test because of cost, versus 30% nationally.

Survey respondents gave Massachusetts a C+ for overall healthcare experience.

It received a D+ for cost, B- for quality and C+ for accessibility. Overall, Massachusetts ranked higher than most states across the board but far from perfect.

Costs grades were marked based on reported cost burden, skipped necessary care and stretching prescriptions.

Massachusetts was the only state to receive a grade as high as B- on any ranking.

Across the board, states overwhelming reported a quality and access grade falling between C- and C+.

As for costs, the majority of states reported between a D and D+, including Massachusetts.

Quality

Despite cost concerns, residents rate Massachusetts providers highly.

The survey found 79% of adults in Massachusetts feel their medical professionals provide high-quality care  significantly above the national average.

Proactive provider engagement also ranked highly for Massachusetts with 76% of respondents reporting their physicians discuss healthy lifestyle choices, and 69% reported being asked about mental health.

Access

Barriers such as long wait times and difficulty finding providers still exist in some places, but Massachusetts fared better than many states: it was among those with above-average rates of recent doctor visits and overall satisfaction.

Wider implications

The report, conducted between June and July 2025, comes at a moment of rising financial strain for U.S. households.

West Health and Gallup argue that even states with top rankings  like Massachusetts  are not immune to systemic cost pressures.

This study captures  how these pressures are being felt by people in every state, Joe Daly, Global Managing Partner at Gallup said in a statement.
Starbucks unveiled a new holiday beverage on Tuesday that will only be available only in Target stores.

The new drink is a Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate, which is a creme Frappuccino with a blend of mocha sauce, milk and ice, poured over a layer of peppermint-flavored whipped cream, and topped with red and green sprinkles, the coffee chain said.

We wanted to create something festive and fun just for Target guests, Alicia Binion of the Starbucks beverage development team said in a statement. The Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate is a delicious beverage that brings together rich chocolate and cool peppermint flavors as well as red and green sprinkles for a pop of color and crunch. Its a sweet way to pause during the holiday rush and enjoy a little seasonal cheer.

This product launch comes as Starbucks makes major headlines for its holiday menu and merchandize, including the much sought-after glass Bearista cup.

During Starbucks annual Reusable Red Cup Day on Nov. 13, Jaci Anderson, Starbucks director of global communications told MassLive that the chain had its best Red Cup Day ever after sales exceeded their expectations across company-operated coffeehouses in North America.

Despite the sales success, the company continues to face labor unrest as baristas across the country are continuing an open-ended Red Cup Rebellion strike which began on Red Cup Day and is expected to continue until the chain addresses workers demands for improved working conditions and pay.

Starbucks Workers United, the union representing the striking employees, has urged customers to boycott the coffee chain for the duration of the strike, saying No contract, no coffee, while Starbucks has stated it is disappointed by the unions decision to strike instead of continuing negotiations.
Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., speaks to Rep. Maxwell Frost, D-Fla., during the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform as they begin marking up a slate of bills concerning the District of Columbia at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday, Sept.10, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/John McDonnell) AP

U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins, R-La., was the only member of the House of Representatives to vote against a bill forcing the Department of Justice to release files related to disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The House voted 427-1 on the bill on Nov. 18, with the Senate approving its passage via unanimous consent the same day. The bill now awaits President Donald Trumps signature.

For months, Trump called the controversy a hoax and even lashed out at some of his party members. Last week, the president pressured Republicans not to vote on the bill.

On Sunday, Trump reversed course, calling on Republicans to vote in favor of the legislation.

We have nothing to hide, and its time to move on from this Democrat Hoax perpetrated by Radical Left Lunatics in order to deflect from the Great Success of the Republican Party, Trump wrote on social media late Sunday. I DONT CARE! All I do care about is that Republicans get BACK ON POINT.

In a post on X, Higgins wrote that he had been against the bill since its inception.

As written, this bill reveals and injures thousands of innocent people  witnesses, people who provided alibis, family members, etc., he wrote. If enacted in its current form, this type of broad reveal of criminal investigative files, released to a rabid media, will absolutely result in innocent people being hurt.

First elected in 2017, Higgins describes himself as one of the most conservative members of Congress and is a member of the House Freedom Caucus, according to his congressional profile.

He serves as a senior member of the House Oversight and Government Reform Committee and as chairman of the Federal Law Enforcement Subcommittee, according to his profile.

Higgins wrote he would vote for the bill if the Senate amended it to properly address privacy of victims and other Americans, who are named but not criminally implicated.

The Senate, however, approved the bill as is, without making changes.
The Springfield Armory on the campus of Springfield Technical Community College. (Don Treeger / The Republican) 11/22/2024 The Republican

The guns in question may be 250 years old, but they remain relevant in discussions about modern firearms law.

The Firearms Research Center at the University of Wyoming will host a conference with the Springfield Armory Thursday and Friday to discuss firearms during the American Revolution. Topics will include the arsenal established in Springfield and ballistics of the 18th century, to name a few.

The conference is free and open to the public. Attorneys in states that need continuing legal education to maintain their licenses can get credit for attending seminars exploring issues like the colonial militia and disarmament during the Revolution.

In 2022, the U.S. Supreme Court established a test to determine whether a gun law is constitutional by having judges ask whether it is consistent with the countrys historical tradition of firearm regulation.

Ashley Hlebinsky, executive director of the center, housed in the Wyoming schools college of law, said she wanted to focus its annual conference on the 250th anniversary of the American Revolution in the region where it began.

The events in the months leading to July 4, 1776, were years from when the nation ratified the Second Amendment in 1791. But that history informs wider understanding, Hlebinsky said.

The conference takes a very interdisciplinary approach to the study of early American history, from legal scholarship to the study of the weapons themselves, Hlebinsky wrote in an email. We wanted to provide the public with access to the different styles of interpretation and also different perspectives and conclusions drawn from the same history.

That includes a fireside chat Thursday between two law professors who sit on opposite sides of the gun debate. They will discuss the historical test established by the Supreme Court in its 2022 Bruen decision.

Kelly Fellner, superintendent of the Springfield Armory National Historic Site, said while the site does not offer a lot of programming about the Second Amendment, it wants to be a place where people from diverse perspectives can discuss the present.

National parks are a great place for bringing together a lot of different people to talk about both history and how that relates to their current lives, Fellner said.

Fellner, who also administers the Coltsville National Historical Park in Hartford, Connecticut, said that site participated in discussions with community leaders about gun violence in that city, for instance.

At the same time, Fellner said interpreters at the Springfield Armory will seek out the latest scholarship so they can share it with visitors to the site.

Battles and wars have always been well-studied. There has been an increasing inquiry in academia into how guns were produced and made, she said.

Meanwhile, the legal community has turned to historians to help shed light on the nations gun laws.

Theyre now involved in being expert witnesses in court cases, Fellner said. And so theres a lot of conversations among historians of this time period.

Those talks explore how history is interpreted, she said.

The conference, Sparking the Revolution: Flintlocks, Gunpowder, and Policy in Americas War for Independence, begins Thursday evening both virtually and at the Springfield Armory.

For more information or to RSVP, visit firearmsresearchcenter.org/events.
Worcester City Councilor Etel Haxhiaj addresses supporters after her motion to dismiss charges was denied by a judge. (Adam Bass/MassLive.com)

A trial for a Worcester City Councilor and a former school committee candidate who were present at an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrest is set for Feb. 10, a judge ruled Wednesday.

District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj and former Worcester School Committee candidate Ashley R. Spring were both charged in connection with their interactions with Worcester police officers who were called to Eureka Street on May 8 during the arrest of a Brazilian mother of four.

Haxhiaj was charged with one misdemeanor count of assault and battery on a police officer and one common law violation for interfering with a police officer.

The councilor lost her re-election bid this year to Jose Rivera and will not be a city councilor come the new year.

Spring, who uses they/them pronouns, was previously charged with misdemeanors of assault and battery on a police officer, disorderly conduct and interfering with police officers.

Spring was also charged with a felony of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon. Police had initially claimed the weapon was an unknown liquid, but later revealed that they knew it was water.

Prosecutors dropped the charge involving a dangerous weapon on July 23.

Both Spring and Haxhiaj sought to dismiss the remaining charges against them but Judge Janet J. McGuiggan denied both dismissals, according to court records.

Judge Zachary Hillman on Wednesday set a trial for both cases on Feb. 10.

Haxhiajs lawyer, Elizabeth K. Halloran told MassLive the court found her arguments to dismiss the charges more suitable for a trial. Halloran previously argued to the court that police body camera footage of the incident shows that Haxhiaj did not intentionally try to touch Police Officer Shauna McGuirk during the arrest.

Springs lawyer, Carl Williams, expressed confidence in a favorable outcome following the trial.

I think justice is on our side, Williams said. The law is on our side.

Spring is expected back in court Dec. 15 for a motion to suppress hearing, according to Williams.

Haxhiaj appeared in court in-person Wednesday but Spring appeared virtually from Florida.

Following her appearance in court Wednesday morning, Haxhiaj met with supporters outside of the courthouse and defended her actions on Eureka Street.

I want to be very clear. The charges brought against Ashley Spring and I have exposed a culture that we already knew existed, Haxhiaj said. Of bullying and retaliation of those who speak up.

The councilor also criticized Worcester political leaders for being idle in the face of injustice.

History remembers those who act, she said. And history remembers those who cower.

What happened during the May 8 arrest

Spring and Haxhiaj, along with a group of more than 30 people shouted and confronted ICE agents on the street May 8. The agents arrested Rosane Ferreira-De Oliveira, a mother of four from Brazil.

Ferreira-De Oliveira was detained for a combined five months at the Wyatt Detention Center in Central Falls, Rhode Island and the Strafford County Corrections facility in Dover, New Hampshire. After a judge granted her asylum, she was released from detention in early October.

During the arrest, Haxhiaj grabbed Ferreira-De Oliveiras arm and pleaded with the agents not to take her, according to police body camera footage released by the city on May 16. Two of the ICE agents then flung Haxhiaj off of Ferreira-De Oliveira, as seen in the footage.

Video from Officer Shauna McGuirks body camera showed Haxhiaj and Ferreira-De Oliveiras daughter, Augusta Clara Moura, standing next to a gold SUV. Ferreira-De Oliveira was placed inside of the vehicle by ICE agents during the arrest.

In the footage, McGuirk tells Haxhiaj and Clara Moura to move away from the vehicle but Haxhiaj then tells the officer that she has the right to be here as a city councilor.

McGuirk then pulled Haxhiaj away from the vehicle by her back, resulting in Haxhiaj pushing against the officers body.

Do not touch me! Haxhiaj yelled as she was pulled away from the SUV.

As the vehicle began to leave, Ferreira-De Oliveiras other daughter, a teenager, ran after it, according to body camera footage.

As she ran down the street, officers began pursuing her and eventually arrested her on the sidewalk, moving her down to the ground.

Officer Juan Vallejo was one of the officers who was near the daughter during the arrest, according to his body camera footage.

Following the arrest of the daughter, Vallejo turns his attention to Spring, who is standing behind him and being handcuffed by another officer.

At the 2:30 mark in the video, Vallejo approaches Spring and points his finger at them, listing charges for another officer: Disorderly, disturbance, and she sprayed me in the face with water.

As he moves away from them, the audio catches Spring saying, It was water.

Even though Spring and Vallejo both stated that the liquid sprayed was water, the police report indicates that Spring sprayed the officer with an unknown liquid.

The daughter was charged with disturbing the peace, disorderly conduct and resisting arrest but Police Chief Paul Saucier requested a judge to dismiss her case. The daughter had previously ran away from the care of the Department of Children and Families but has since been found safe, according to the Worcester Police Department.
District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj (left) and Ashely Spring (right) outside of Worcester District Court. (Adam Bass/MassLive.com)

A judge on Wednesday declined to dismiss charges filed against a Worcester city councilor who confronted federal immigration agents and police officers during an operation on May 8.

District 5 Councilor Etel Haxhiaj was charged on June 4 with one misdemeanor count of assault and battery on a police officer and one common law violation for interfering with a police officer.

Haxhiaj lost her re-election bid this year to Jose Rivera and wont be a city councilor come the new year.

The charges stem against Haxhiajs actions on May 8, where she confronted and protested Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents on Eureka Street in Worcester. The agents were arresting 40-year-old Rosane Ferreira-De Oliveira, a Brazilian mother of four. The mother was released from her detainment in October.

In a filing on Wednesday, Janet J. McGuiggan denied Haxhiajs bid to dismiss the case.

Police body camera footage of the incident released by the city on May 16 featured video of the councilor grabbing the 40-year-olds arm and pleading with the agents not to take her. Two of the ICE agents then flung Haxhiaj off of Ferreira-De Oliveira, as seen in the footage.

Video from Officer Shauna McGuirks body camera showed Haxhiaj and Ferreira-De Oliveiras daughter, Augusta Clara Moura, standing next a gold SUV. Ferreira-De Oliveira was placed inside of the vehicle by ICE agents during the arrest.

In the footage the agents and McGuirk tell both Haxhiaj and Clara Moura to move away from the SUV.

The officer released her arm and an agent then warned Clara Moura and Haxhiaj that they both could be charged for their actions

I dont understand, Haxhiaj said and told McGuirk that she had the right to be there as a district councilor. Eureka Street is part of Worcesters District 5.

McGuirk then pulled Haxhiaj away from the vehicle by her back, and Haxhiaj pushed against the officers body.

Do not touch me! Haxhiaj yelled as she was pulled away from the SUV.

Bossolt requested a show-cause hearing on three charges against Haxhiaj, according to the application. Bossolt requested that the councilor be charged with two counts of assault and battery on a police officer and one count of interfering with a police officer.

Haxhiaj pushed P.O. McGuirk in the chest, the filing reads. Haxhiaj pulled P.O. McGuirks arm as she was making an arrest.
A judge on Wednesday ruled against dismissing charges against a former Worcester School Committee candidate who doused an officer with water during an Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrest.

Ashley R. Spring, who uses they/them pronouns, was previously charged with misdemeanors of assault and battery on a police officer, disorderly conduct and interfering with police officers.

Spring was also charged with a felony of assault and battery with a dangerous weapon, which was in reality a baby bottle with water inside.

Prosecutors, however, dropped the charge involving a dangerous weapon on July 23.

Spring previously sought to dismiss the charges in September.

In a filing on MassCourts on Wednesday, Janet J. McGuiggan ruled against dismissing Springs charges.

Spring is set to appear remotely in court on Wednesday.

The charges stem from an interaction between Spring and a Worcester Police Officer during an ICE operation on May 8. Agents arrested Rosane Ferreira-De Oliveira, a Brazilian mother of four, on Eureka Street that day. Ferreira-De Oliveira was released from detainment in October.

Spring was one of many people who confronted and protested the ICE agents during the arrest. After 11 a.m. members of the Worcester Police Department arrived on the street, telling people that they were conducting an unlawful assembly.

A gold SUV that ICE agents had placed Ferreira-De Oliveira inside began to drive away from the crowd. As the vehicle began to leave, the mothers 17-year-old daughter ran after it.

Officer Juan Vallejo was one of the officers who was near the daughter during the arrest, according to his body camera footage.

Following the arrest of the daughter, Vallejo turns his attention to Spring, who is standing behind him and being handcuffed by another officer.

At the 2:30 mark in the video, Vallejo approaches Spring and points his finger at them, listing charges for another officer: Disorderly, disturbance, and she sprayed me in the face with water.

As he moves away from them, the audio catches Spring saying, It was water.

Even though Spring and Vallejo both stated that the liquid sprayed was water, the police report indicates that Spring sprayed the officer with an unknown liquid.

Spring initially qualified for the citys general election ballot as a candidate for School District A, running against incumbent committee member Molly O. McCullough.
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CBE which is based in Claremorris, Mayo while also being one of Europes leading retail and hospitality technology companies, has been awarded the prestigious Supplier of the Year 2025 title at the Retail Excellence Ireland Awards. The ceremony took place on Saturday, November 15, at the renowned Lyrath Estate Hotel in Kilkenny, where the industry gathered to celebrate outstanding achievements across the retail sector.

The Retail Excellence Ireland Awards are widely regarded as the most respected and long- standing awards programme in Irish retail. Each year, they highlight retailers, leaders, and suppliers who demonstrate exceptional innovation, service, and performance. This years recognition for CBE acknowledges its unwavering commitment to delivering best-in-class retail technology solutions and supporting retailers throughout Ireland and abroad.

Speaking about the award, CBE Managing Director Gearoid Concannon said: This recognition is a testament to the hard work, dedication, and customer-first mindset that our entire team brings to the table every single day. We are incredibly proud to support retailers across Ireland and beyond, and this award reinforces our commitment to delivering innovative, reliable, and future-focused retail technology solutions.

The Supplier of the Year accolade further strengthens CBEs position as the leading technology partner for retailers across the supermarket, convenience, forecourt, & hospitality sectors. With continued growth, international expansion, and a strong emphasis on innovation, the company remains at the forefront of digital transformation within the retail industry.

READ MORE: Two Mayo schools honoured as Champion Schools of Sanctuary
On October 28, well-known hotelier Niall Rochford laced up his shoes and embarked on a 12-day challenge, walking from Cork to Cong, in memory of his late wife Stella. Just eight weeks after her shock diagnosis, Stella passed away from pancreatic cancer in July 2022.

Despite walking an extraordinary 250km, Niall, the Managing Director of the Ashford Castle Estate, had never done anything like this before.

I didnt really know what to expect, Niall told The Mayo News. I made the decision to do this walk on July 13, three years to the day since Stella passed. The next morning, I went out for a 10-kilometer walk. I went from zero to 100 percent overnight!

From that first day of training, Niall began preparing both physically and mentally to follow a path that mirrors the journey of Stella's life.

The walk began at University College Cork, where Stella studied, before continuing through Limerick and Clare, where the couple met and later married. The route ended in Cong, the place they called home, and where Stella is now laid to rest.

At times, I found it difficult, he said.  However, now that its over, she feels even closer.

Show of support

I thought I would be like Forrest Gump - just me, my headphones, and the road, Niall laughed. I think I had 20 minutes of the entire walk when I had my headphones in. Every day, people joined - sometimes ten or fifteen, some days fifty. Some knew me, some didnt. They were just carried along by the story and what we were doing.

Supporters travelled from across the country to join stages of the journey.

So many people came to walk or reached out to share their stories - husbands, wives, sons, daughters all lost to pancreatic cancer, he said. People really appreciated the fact that pancreatic cancer was now being spoken about, and it was being highlighted because there never was a voice for pancreatic cancer before.

The encouragement, he said, was 'phenomenal'. From Cork to Limerick, Clare into Mayo, there were bonfires, flags, and people lining the roads in the rain.

Each day, Rochford set out at 10am to walk for five or six hours, covering between 22 and 28 kilometres a day. With a weather warning showing no mercy, the physical toll was notable.

My hips and hamstrings were sore after the first two days, he said. But nothing compares to what families face after a pancreatic cancer diagnosis.

Despite the aches, he said the experience was transformative.

People who didnt know each other started talking and connecting. There were no phones, no distractions, just genuine conversations. It did a lot of good for a lot of people.

Raising funds and awareness

Funds raised will go directly to Pancreatic Cancer Ireland, which was co-founded earlier this year by Niall, together with Rachel Duquesnois and Pamela Deasy, whose lives have been deeply impacted by the disease. The group is supported by various leading medical experts, including Professor Aisling Barry, Radiation Oncologist and Chair of Radiation Oncology at UCC, as well as Professor Grainne OKane, Consultant Medical Oncologist at St Vincents University Hospital.

Ireland is probably 10 to 15 years behind the European best practice, in terms of pancreatic cancer care, Niall explained. We want to fund advanced practitioner nursing posts, diagnostic centres, and awareness campaigns - anything that helps people get diagnosed earlier and get proper support.

Pancreatic Cancer Ireland is a voluntary organisation.

We dont take any expenses; every single penny thats raised will go to improving the outcomes and the experience of those who have pancreatic cancer.

The walk, originally planned as 250km, ended up being slightly longer.

On Monday, November 3, someone added a safer route, which turned out to be five kilometres longer, he laughed. But we walked every one of them.

While the walk raised significant awareness and funds, Rochford insists it is only the beginning.

MORE

To date, an amazing 165,990 has been raised by Niall Rochford. Donations are still being accepted at https://www.idonate.ie/event/Cork2Cong
Minister of State Alan Dillion TD has welcomed confirmation that 15 Mayo primary and post-primary schools will receive funding under the 90 million Climate Action Summer Works Scheme for 2026.

The announcement, made by outgoing Minister for Education and Youth, Helen McEntee, and confirms approval for 297 projects nationwide. These include 11 primary and four post-primary schools in Mayo, representing a major investment in school facilities across the county.

This scheme allows schools to undertake measures such as insulation upgrades, LED lighting installation, EV charger provision, bike-rack facilities to support active travel, and other climate-focused works alongside traditional maintenance.

A key feature of the scheme is the modernisation of science laboratories in 60 post-primary schools nationwide, with 30 million ring-fenced for these refurbishments. Four Mayo schools  St. Geralds College (Castlebar), Davitt College (Castlebar), St. Josephs Secondary School (Foxford), and St. Tiernans College (Ballina) have been approved for science lab upgrades.

Minister Dillon said, This announcement is a strong vote of confidence in Mayos schools. Fifteen schools across the county will benefit from essential upgrades, from modern science labs to climate action measures and vital maintenance works.

These projects will enhance learning environments, support sustainability, and ensure our students have the facilities they need to thrive under the new curriculum.

Science subjects are central to preparing our young people for the future. At the primary level, they spark curiosity and problem-solving skills, while at the secondary level, modern laboratories give students the hands-on experience they need to pursue careers in medicine, engineering, technology, and research.

By investing in science facilities now, we are equipping Mayos students with the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world. He added.

Minister Dillon concluded: This investment will make a real difference for Mayo communities. It means safer, more sustainable, and better-equipped schools for our children, and it reflects the Governments commitment to regional development and climate action.

The school's to benefit are listed below:
This year, 160 businesses received GRADAIM Gno na hEireann recognition awards in, the highest number yet! More than 270 representatives from the business sector came together at the awards ceremony organised by Glor na nGael in Croke Park on November 17 to celebrate businesses that put the Irish language at the heart of their work, and/or that provide a level of service through Irish to their customers.

Speaking at the ceremony, Daithi O Se, guest of honour at the event, said that Irish is an added value for businesses: As I travel around the country I see GRADAIM Gno na hEireann plaques displayed in businesses which indicates the importance the language has for them and for their businesses.

GRADAIM Gno na hEireann is a recognition scheme that awards Bronze, Silver or Gold status to companies based on their achievements in one category, in two categories, or in all of the following categories: (1) Signage, (2) Branding and Marketing, and (3) Service in Irish. The plaque they receive will be on display as a clear indicator to customers of the level and type of service through Irish that they can expect.

Colaiste UISCE, Contae Mhaigh Eo were the only Mayo representatives to win an award as they secured a GRADAIM Gno na hEireann medal winners award. Colaiste UISCE received a Gold Award in the Signage category, a Silver Award in the Marketing & Branding category and a Gold Award in the Service category.

According to the scheme manager, Frainc Mac Cionnaith, Enterprise and Business Development Manager with Glor na nGael, he was very pleased that more than 230 businesses were registered with GRADAIM this year.

These businesses understand the central role our language plays in the culture and identity of the country. They understand that Irish provides a unique competitive advantage that attracts customers, and the number of businesses making use of that opportunity is constantly increasing.

This approach is not only a celebration of our cultural heritage, it is also completely in line with good business practice. During the judging process in September, we saw the valuable work these companies are doing on behalf of the Irish language. I am very pleased that these efforts are being recognised at a national level. The number of businesses taking part this year is a source of pride and shows the high standard of service through Irish that is available, a standard that is going from strength to strength year on year.

Gradaim Gno na hEireann was launched in 2021 and is run by Glor na nGael. It covers the entire island. Businesses can find full information about the scheme at www.glornangael.ie/gradaim.

Photo caption: In the photograph are Karina Ni Dhiamain (centre) & Roisin Nic Grianna, Eilis Nic Giolla Coille, Caroline Ni Mhuineachain, Cailtin Ni Dhubhsaigh from Colaiste UISCE in Co. Mayo receiving Gradaim Gno na hEireann awards from Daithi O Se and Lorcan Mac Gabhann, CEO of Glor na nGael.

READ MORE: Mayo festivals and events to receive substantial funding
On Monday, November 17, Mayo MEP Maria Walsh hosted Palestinian and Israeli female peacebuilders in the European Parliament for an event on the role of women in conflict resolution in the Middle East.

Co-hosted by MEPs Chloe Ridel, Villy Svndal, and Cynthia Ni Mhurchu, the event brought together leaders from Women Wage Peace (WWP) and Women of the Sun (WoS), who are working on the ground in Israel and Palestine to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and a shared vision for peace.

The event was moderated by Gina McIntyre, Chief Executive of the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB), who oversees the 1.1bn PEACEPLUS Programme across the Northern Ireland border region. She highlighted the role civil society played in sustaining the Good Friday Agreement and the lessons it offers for regions emerging from conflict.

Speakers Reem al Hajajra, Naama Barak Wolfman, and Kifiaia Masarwy shared personal testimonies and outlined the joint peace movement they are building, work that has earned them international recognition, including nomination for the Nobel Peace Prize and selection as finalists for the 2024 Sakharov Prize.

At the session, which was attended by Members of the European Parliament, Irish and international diplomats, and civil society representatives, Maria Walsh said,

These women travelled from Israel and Palestine to Brussels with a message Ireland knows well from our own peace process: peace is only possible when communities are involved and when women are at the centre of negotiations.

Their courage is extraordinary. After years of violence, these women continue to work together across divides, and their message must be heard loud and clear in Brussels - a place where policy that affects their lives is developed.

As an Irishwoman, and as someone deeply committed to peacebuilding and gender equality, I believe the EU has a responsibility to amplify these voices. Ireland understands the power of community-led peace work. We have lived it. Hearing from Women Wage Peace and Women of the Sun was a reminder that peace is a process, not an event - and that women are the backbone of that process. She added.

The event marks the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325 on Women, Peace and Security, a framework Ireland has championed for decades.
Two Mayo schools, Ballyhaunis Community School and Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh have been officially recognised as Champion Schools of Sanctuary at a special awards ceremony hosted by the University of Galway.

A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of recognition in the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a Learn, Action, Share framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice, and build understanding about forced migration.

Ballyhaunis Community School and Sancta Maria College were among those recognised for embedding inclusion across their school communities and promoting understanding among students, teachers, and parents alike.

The ceremony was hosted by University of Galways Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion and the Access Centre, in collaboration with Schools of Sanctuary Ireland and Galway City Partnership. The event underscores the Universitys commitment to advancing equality and inclusion within the education sector and beyond.

Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion at University of Galway, said: At University of Galway, we are deeply committed to fostering a culture of inclusion and belonging not only across our campus, but within the wider education system. The Champion Schools of Sanctuary embody these same values, creating learning environments where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. By recognising and celebrating these schools, we are also acknowledging the powerful role education plays in shaping compassionate, empathetic communities.

Imelda Byrne, Head of the Access Centre at University of Galway, said: At University of Galway Access Centre, we are deeply committed to fostering inclusion at every level of education. The Schools of Sanctuary initiative reflects that same spirit, its about ensuring every learner feels seen, supported, and valued. Were proud to celebrate these schools for creating spaces where belonging isnt just encouraged, its lived every day.

Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council, who has supported the work in schools, said: Across counties and communities, these schools are demonstrating real leadership in creating inclusive and welcoming environments for every student. Im proud to support their achievements today and to acknowledge the important partnerships driving this meaningful work.

The Awards Ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, the Access Centre, and Galway City Partnership.

Pictured above are students from Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh pictured with: back, from left:Dr Mary Surlis, Senior Academic Manager, Access Centre and Dr Helen Maher, Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, University of Galway; Sara Hakim, Director, Schools of Sanctuary Ireland; and Dr Daniel Savery, Widening Participation Officer, Access Centre, University of Galway.

Front: Dr Aine Moran, Principal, Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh; Cllr. Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council; and teacher Keira Kennelly, Sancta Maria College, Louisburgh, at the Champion School of Sanctuary awards ceremony held at University of Galway. Pic: Mike Shaughnessy.

READ MORE: 15 Mayo schools to receive funding for refurbishments
Deputy Keira Keogh has welcomed a major investment in festivals and events with strong Mayo links under Failte Irelands Strategic Festival Tourism Portfolio, announced today by Minister for Enterprise, Trade and Employment, Peter Burke, TD. The programme provides guaranteed funding for 38 festivals nationwide over the next three years.

Mayo will receive 345,000, supporting four key events that draw visitors, strengthen local businesses, and extend the tourism season across the county:

Saltwater Festival  150,000

Gaelforce Trilogy Swim Series  90,000

Sea 2 Summit  60,000

Mayo Dark Skies Festival  45,000

Welcoming the Mayo allocations, Deputy Keogh said: This is a fantastic boost for Mayo. Our festivals are run by passionate local businesses, organisations and volunteers who put their heart and soul into showcasing what our county has to offer. This funding gives them room to grow, plan ahead and continue delivering brilliant festivals.

Sea 2 Summit is one of the biggest economic drivers for Westport every single year. It brings in huge visitor numbers at a time when the tourism season is winding down, and local businesses really feel the benefit. This investment recognises the enormous value Sea 2 Summit brings to the town.

Deputy Keogh recently opened and attended the Mayo Dark Skies Festival and is thrilled they have been included in the funding announcement: Next year marks the 10th anniversary of the Mayo Dark Skies Festival, which has become a unique attraction for Mayo. It draws families, astronomers, and nature lovers from neighbouring towns, from all over the country, and a growing number of international star gazers from further afield to our rural community. Its wonderful to see it supported as it enters such an important milestone year.

She concluded: This funding is a strong endorsement of Mayos tourism offering. It supports jobs, boosts local businesses and puts our festivals on a stable footing for the years ahead. Im proud to see Mayo so well represented in this national programme.

READ MORE: PICTURES: Crowds flock to Mayo for iconic Sea2Summit event
By Mata Press Service

Canada is steering itself into an immigration crisis, warn labour unions, human-rights advocates and refugee agencies as they launch a national campaign to counter rising hostility toward newcomers and the policies driving it.

That warning sits at the centre of Were Better Together, a national campaign launched by the Canadian Council for Refugees (CCR) and more than a dozen partner organizations. According to its organizers, this is a defensive response to a political climate that is shifting sharply against newcomers, even as Canada continues to rely on immigration for its labour force, economic growth and international identity.

The campaign arrives at a moment when federal policy, public sentiment and global pressures are colliding in ways not seen in decades. Immigration levels are being cut. Processing delays are reaching historic highs. New border and security legislation threatens refugee protections. Employers across health care, construction, agriculture and technology report vacant jobs they simply cannot fill. Meanwhile, public confidence is eroding amid rising anti-immigrant rhetoric, housing pressures and mixed political messaging.

CCR President Diana Gallego says the trigger for the campaign was not only the tone of political debate but the concrete retreat in federal action. Ottawa has reduced immigration targets, cut settlement services, and introduced sweeping new powers under Bills C-12 and C-2, which allow the government to cancel immigration applications and militarize border enforcement.

Blame and hate towards immigrants and refugees in Canada is increasing while government support is declining, Gallego said. More Canadians still support than oppose immigration. This campaign gives voice to that support and sends a clear message to political leaders: we are better together.

The coalition supporting the work includes Amnesty International, the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE), migrant-worker advocates and a wide network of NGOs. Each group sees a different part of the problem. Together, they see the same structural failure: a system drifting away from fairness and predictability just as Canada enters a period of unprecedented labour shortages.

Among the most vocal critics is Amnesty International Canada, whose Secretary General Ketty Nivyabandi warns that Bill C-12 opens the door to policies that trample international obligations.

The bill undermines the rights and dignity of refugees and migrants, she said. Every person deserves to be safe from persecution and treated fairly. Canada must resist the global authoritarian trend that treats newcomers as a threat rather than human beings seeking protection.

These changes arrive as the world sees rising displacement from conflict, climate disasters, corruption and collapsing states. Yet the federal government has proposed new limitations on asylum claims, revived the ability to cancel approved documents in the public interest, and introduced financial co-pays for refugees accessing basic services such as dental care.

Former foreign affairs minister Lloyd Axworthy, long considered one of Canadas most respected voices on refugee policy, warns that Canada is putting its reputation at risk and backtracking on commitments made under the UN Refugee Convention.

Beyond legislation, delays have become the defining crisis.

Processing backlogs now stretch across virtually every stream from family reunification, skilled workers, refugees and temporary residents. Wait times in some categories exceed 10 years.

One of the starkest examples is the Economic Mobility Pathways Pilot (EMPP), once celebrated for bringing skilled refugees into hard-to-fill jobs. Its average processing time has ballooned from six months to 54 months. Employers report cancelled projects, stalled expansion plans and millions in losses as approved workers wait abroad in unsafe conditions.

Canada is no longer treating this applicant group like the skilled workers they are, says Dana Wagner of TalentLift Canada.

These failures sit uneasily alongside government plans to cut both temporary and permanent resident intakes over the next three years. The government argues that reductions are needed to ease pressures on housing and social services. But critics say Ottawa is simply shifting blame for broader policy failures onto newcomers.

Industry groups point to a different risk: economic stagnation.

Restaurants Canada, representing 90,000 businesses, says immigration cuts will deepen hiring shortages, especially in tourism-based regions. The Canadian Construction Association (CCA) warns that Canada cannot build homes, hospitals or infrastructure without a coherent workforce strategy tied to immigration.

The construction sector alone employs 1.6 million workers and contributes $165 billion to GDP. Without more newcomers, CCA president Rodrigue Gilbert says, any ambitious construction agenda will stall.

Universities and colleges are also seeing fallout from the halving of international-student admissions. Institutions from coast to coast have reported deficits tied largely to the foreign student cuts.

The governments shift comes as public attitudes become more divided. An Environics poll shows that 56 percent of Canadians now believe the country admits too many immigrants, a sharp increase from previous years. Housing shortages, emergency-room crises and rising rents have created fertile ground for political actors seeking to scapegoat newcomers.

This is the climate the new campaign intends to reshape.

The campaigns public-opinion research, which surveyed over 2,000 Canadians, found wide support for immigration when framed around fairness, community contribution and shared prosperity. That insight led to a strategy built around positive messaging, personal stories and myth-bustingrather than confrontational political combat.

CUPE President Mark Hancock says the labour movement joined the campaign to counter efforts to divide and distract workers.

We must stand together for a future where all families and workers can thrive, he said.

The underlying question driving the new movement is whether Canada still sees immigration as a nation-building project or simply an administrative file to scale up or down based on political pressures.

Lawyers, employers, researchers and civil-society groups fear the latter.

CILA, the national association of immigration lawyers, warns that the governments approach risks eroding predictability and competitiveness, noting that newcomers account for more than 80 percent of the countrys labour-force growth. Cuts now, they argue, will be felt in every sector within yearsespecially as Canadas population ages and retirements accelerate.

Those concerns echo across industries. The Fraser Institute warns of declining productivity. The BC Business Council points to declining transparency. And the construction sector calls for direct alignment between immigration planning and national housing goals.

For CCR and its partners, the campaign is not only about policy but also about reclaiming a narrative that has veered off course.

Immigrants and refugees contribute much to our communities and our country, Gallego said. People in Canada are pushing back against political efforts to blame them for problems they didnt create.

The campaigns message is simple, stating Canadas future depends on newcomers, and the country cannot afford to drift toward policies that treat them as burdens.

Whether that message resonates will become clear in the months leading up to the next federal budget cycle, where immigration will again sit at the centre of political debate.

But for now, the groups behind Were Better Together say they are stepping up because the economic, social and moral stakes are too high to ignore.
A large Finnish study finds that adolescents treated with the antibiotic doxycycline were significantly less likely to develop schizophrenia later, hinting at new preventive possibilities for severe mental illness.

Highlights: Teens treated with doxycycline had 3035% lower odds of developing schizophrenia later.

The antibiotic may protect the brain by reducing inflammation and abnormal neural pruning.

Researchers say this could pave the way for preventive mental-health therapies.

  Trusted Source

Doxycycline Use in Adolescent Psychiatric Patients and Risk of Schizophrenia: An Emulated Target Trial



Go to source Trusted Source

TOP INSIGHT Did You Know?

A common acne antibiotic may hold clues to preventing one of the worlds most severe mental illnesses. #schizophrenia #mentalhealth #psychiatry #inflammation #neuroscience #medindia

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Inside the Study

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Why Might an Antibiotic Protect the Brain?

Reduce inflammation in microglial cells , the brains immune system.

, the brains immune system. Influence synaptic pruning, the process that refines neural connections during adolescence. Excessive pruning, when the brain trims away too many synapses, has long been linked to schizophrenia risk.

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Expert Insight

Broader Implications

Final Takeaway

Doxycycline Use in Adolescent Psychiatric Patients and Risk of Schizophrenia: An Emulated Target Trial - (https://psychiatryonline.org/doi/10.1176/appi.ajp.20240958)

Could a drug prescribed for acne quietly protect against schizophrenia? A new study led by the, published in the American Journal of Psychiatry, suggests it might. Researchers found that adolescents who received the antibiotic were up toto develop schizophrenia in adulthood compared with peers who took other antibiotics().The finding offers a striking possibility that an existing, affordable drug might one day help prevent one of psychiatrys most devastating disorders.The team, working with colleagues fromand, analyzed healthcare data from more thanwho attended mental-health services between 2006 and 2020.Using national prescription and diagnostic records, they compared teens who were prescribed doxycycline against those who received other antibiotics. Even after adjusting for confounders such as infection type or acne treatment , theof later schizophrenia diagnosis.Doxycycline, part of the tetracycline family, is widely used to treat acne and infections, but it also has powerfulIn brain research, doxycycline is known to:Study authors propose that doxycycline may helpand dampen neuroinflammatory pathways that contribute to the disorders onset.Professor, lead investigator and Professor of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at the University of Edinburgh, said: As many as half of the people who develop schizophrenia had previously attended child and adolescent mental health services. At present, we have no interventions that are known to reduce that risk. This makes our findings very exciting.However, he also stressed caution:Schizophrenia affects about, typically emerging in late adolescence or early adulthood. It carries profound personal and societal costs, from lifelong disability to social stigma and reduced life expectancy.If doxycycline or similar anti-inflammatory drugs can lower risk in vulnerable youth, it could represent aStill, researchers emphasize that this is not a call to prescribe antibiotics routinely. Large-scale randomized trials will be needed to confirm whether doxycycline truly offers protective effects.The study adds weight to a growing theory:. Doxycyclines apparent protective link opens a door to new prevention strategies, not through new drugs, but by re-examining those we already have.For now, scientists are cautious but optimistic. What began as an acne treatment could someday inform how we protect young minds from schizophrenias reach.Source-Medindia
A nationwide Japanese survey finds that openness and trust, rather than age, determine who is willing to use home-care robots and share personal health data for research.

Highlights: Trust and openness predict robot acceptance more than age

80% would share data with doctors, but far fewer trust companies

Users value usefulness; developers prioritize safety and privacy

  Trusted Source

Willingness to use home-care robots and views regarding the provision of personal information in Japan: comparison between actual or potential users and robot developers



Go to source Trusted Source

TOP INSIGHT Japan's robot future won't be decided by age  it will be decided by trust. #agingcare #healthcareai #japan #robotics #medindia

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Inside the Study: What the Survey Found

People who followed robot-related news or had positive attitudes toward technology were far more likely to accept robotic help.

or had positive attitudes toward technology were to accept robotic help. Younger adults (under 65) showed slightly greater willingness to use robots for themselves and family members.

showed slightly greater willingness to use robots for themselves and family members. Women were more open to using home-care robots for their family's care needs.

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Privacy, Safety, and the Trust Gap

About 80% of users said they would share their data with medical professionals for research or monitoring.

said they would share their data with for research or monitoring. Only 4050% were willing to share the same data with robot developers or tech companies.

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Why Trust and Openness Matter

Building the HumanRobot Partnership

Strengthen data privacy regulations for home-care technologies.

for home-care technologies. Provide education and training to older adults on using assistive robots.

to older adults on using assistive robots. Promote open communication between users and developers to build long-term trust.

Final Takeaway

Willingness to use home-care robots and views regarding the provision of personal information in Japan: comparison between actual or potential users and robot developers - (https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S074756322500264X)

Japan, home to the world's fastest-aging population, is turning to robots to help fill a massive care gap. By 2040, the nation is projected to face a, a crisis driving innovation inThese robots are designed to support older adults with daily activities, improve safety, and reduce caregiver burden. But as the technology evolves, one key question remains:A new nationwide survey, published in Computers in Human Behavior, explored who in Japan is willing to accept home-care robots, and the results challenge common assumptions.Researchers surveyed over, including older adults, family caregivers, nurses, and developers of home-care robots.Surprisingly,determining openness to robots. Instead,played the largest roles.In contrast, older adults and those with previous experience in long-term care tended to be less willing, possibly due to concerns abou privacy or discomfort with technology.When it came to sharing personal data collected by robots, responses revealed aDevelopers themselves werethan users were. Their willingness to use home-care robots depended on strong data protection frameworks and reliability standards.This reflects a growing global theme in AI healthcare The researchers found that the strongest predictor of willingness to adopt a robot wasn't age, gender, or experience, but ratherPeople who were interested in robot-related news or familiar with robotics were significantly more likely to accept home-care robots, the study noted.Japan's pop culture may play a subtle role in this regard. Friendly, human-like robots featured in anime and popular media have helped shapetoward robotic companions. This cultural openness may partly explain why Japan leads in robotics innovation, yet still faces hesitation among its aging citizens.For home-care robots to succeed, developers must do more than innovate; they must alsoThe study calls for a, bringing together older adults, families, caregivers, and companies in co-creating technology that feels safe and intuitive.Researchers also urge policymakers to:Japan's home-care robot revolution isn't just about machines, it's about people. The key to adoption lies not in younger generations or futuristic design, but inAs one of the researchers summarized: To make robots truly useful in elder care, we must design for trust  not just technology.By ensuring that safety, privacy, and empathy are at the heart of innovation, Japan may well serve as a model for how aging societies around the world can confidently embrace AI companions.Source-Medindia
Travel influencer Anunay Sood was reported dead on November 14 and a drug overdose or OD is now believed to be the reason behind his death. He was discovered unresponsive in his room at the Wynn Las Vegas earlier this month, as per a report from LA-based outlet 8NewsNow. Police reportedly found him unconscious on November 4, with narcotics present near his body, according to documents reviewed by the portal. Sood, who had built a following of over 1.5 million on Instagram, had travelled to Las Vegas to attend the Las Vegas Concours 2025 car show, as suggested by his latest social media updates.

 Instagram/Anunay Sood The report adds that a woman staying with Sood informed investigators that their group had purchased what they thought was cocaine from a man on the casino floor around 4 am. She recounted that Sood, along with her and another woman, took the substance before falling asleep. When the two women woke up nearly an hour later, they found Sood unresponsive. Authorities reportedly recovered a small pouch containing an unknown white powder along with additional items indicating that the substance had been snorted. Soods family and close friends confirmed his passing on Instagram last week, asking for privacy and urging fans not to gather outside their home. His final posts showed that he was indeed in Las Vegas leading up to his death.

 Instagram/Anunay Sood In an earlier statement to HT.com, the Los Angeles police had said, On November 4, 2025, LVMPD responded to a dead body located in the 3100 block of South Las Vegas Boulevard. Officers assisted the coroner and took a non-criminal/medical report. The Clark County coroners office has stated that both the cause and manner of death remain pending, noting that toxicology results, required to determine whether the substances were responsible, may take several months. Users are surprised by this news. One user commented, Yaar wahi baat haina, careful nahi rhte log. Ek mistake ki wajah se kya he beet rahi hogi parents pe. drink alcohol bhai(responsible consumption though) itna kya drugs ke chakkar me yaar. Feel bad for his parents. May they find peace.Another user commented, When any young person of influence dies at a young age, it creates a sense of panic amongst youngsters. As much as I feel sad for his family, its a good thing that we know the cause of his death. People make momentarily mistakes, lets not discuss about his habits after his death. One user reacted, Omg this is so sad. Drugs have really ruined families. Government should really do something to control drug abuse.
The Dhurandhar trailer has been receiving overwhelmingly positive feedback, with viewers praising the makers for striking the perfect balance, keeping the narrative mysterious without giving away major plot points. Even though the teaser has left the audience curious about what the film is actually about, weve learnt what real-life incident it draws inspiration from. Dhurandhar reportedly takes cues from Operation Lyari, one of Pakistans longest-running covert missions. This large-scale operation, conducted between 2012 and 2023, involved Pakistani intelligence agencies infiltrating and dismantling a powerful gang network operating in and around Karachi. Over more than a decade, authorities tracked, penetrated and ultimately neutralised the criminal syndicate.

 Jio Studios Who Is Playing Whom? In the trailer, we are introduced to the main characters of the movie: Arjun Rampal as Major Iqbal, The Angel Of Death; R. Madhavan as Indian Intelligence Expert Ajay Sanyal, The Chariot Of Karma; Akshay Khanna as Rehman Dkait, The Apex Predator and Sanjay Dutt as Chaudhary Aslam, The Jinn. Rehman Dakait and Chaudhary Aslam were real Pakistani gangsters, and Major Iqbal was an ISI officer who played a significant role during the Mumbai 26/11 attacks. In Dhurandhar, Ranveer Singh is speculated to portray a character modelled after Major Mohit Sharma, one of Indias most highly decorated Special Forces officers from the elite 1st Para SF, known for infiltrating Pakistani militant networks. Meanwhile, R. Madhavans role is expected to draw strong inspiration from NSA Ajit Doval, the key strategist behind several of Indias most important covert missions and high-risk surgical operations. Take a look at the actors and characters they are playing in Dhurandhar:
By Victor Ing,

Special to The Post

On November 7, 2025, the Honourable Lena Diab, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, released her departments annual report on immigration admission levels, setting out key immigration objectives for the next three years. Like all previous reports, this one features concrete data regarding last years (2024) immigration levels in Canada, while setting new admission targets for the next three years from 2026 through to 2028. Readers who regularly follow our blogs already know that our government has taken an aggressive approach throughout the 2025 calendar year to cut immigration programs across the board, but there can be no doubt after reading the latest report where Canadas immigration program is heading: a drastic reduction in temporary immigration while stabilizing permanent immigration over the next three years. Here are three key takeaways from the Ministers report:

Temporary Immigration Levels Will See Drastic Cuts

For most of my career as an immigration lawyer, Immigration Ministers have viewed temporary immigration as a crucial part of Canadas overall immigration strategy to attract the best and brightest to our country, regardless of political affiliation. The logic was that we ought to invite students and highly skilled workers to come to Canada, and then to encourage them to apply to transition to becoming permanent residents. As such, high temporary immigration levels are usually strongly correlated with high permanent immigration levels. Those views that temporary immigration is crucial to Canadas long-term success have not entirely dissipated but have recently been overtaken by concerns that we have accepted too many newcomers since the end of the pandemic and that more needs to be done to ensure newcomers have adequate access to jobs, services, and housing so that they can succeed in Canada.

With all this in mind, the current Minister plans to reduce the number of new temporary resident arrivals in 2026 to 385,000, which represents a massive 42% reduction from the year prior. Of these new arrivals, about 60% will be represented by foreign workers, while the remaining 40% will be represented by international students. To put things in perspective as to how deep these cuts go, the new plan aims to welcome 155,000 new international students to Canada in 2026, whereas in 2024 study permits were issued to 293,835 incoming international students.

Permanent Resident Immigration Levels Will Stay Flat

Last year permanent resident admission levels were cut by an eye watering 21% to 395,000. A further reduction will occur in 2026, with an updated target to welcome 380,000 new permanent residents, and those numbers will reduce to 370,000 for both 2027 and 2028.

Economic immigration once again features prominently in the new immigration levels plan, accounting for about 64% of all planned permanent immigration to Canada. Economic immigration includes all the major skilled worker immigration categories set out under Canadas Express Entry system, as well as region-based immigration programs like the Atlantic Immigration Program and the Provincial Nominee Programs and even niche federal programs such as those established for caregivers and business immigrants.

Flat immigration levels have significant consequences for those hoping to qualify for permanent residence based on Canadas economic streams because those are the pathways where there is typically fierce competition to be invited to apply based upon point-scoring schemes. With flat immigration levels expected for the next few years, this means that those who are already struggling to compete today will not likely see their prospects improve.

Almost as if on cue to address these concerns, the Ministers latest report signals a potential lifeline for temporary residents in Canada who have been living and working in Canada for years without being able to qualify for permanent residency. The November 7, 2025, report teases a one-time initiative that will be implemented in 2026 and 2027 to accelerate the transition of up to 33,000 temporary workers to permanent residency. It is too early to speculate how the Minister might achieve this lofty goal or when further details might be released, but she would do well to remember that there are numerous bad actors in the immigration marketplace that might seek to take advantage of desperate permanent resident candidates amid the current atmosphere of uncertainty.

Options for Permanent Residency Are Shifting

Though overall permanent resident admission levels are not changing significantly for the next three years, we are seeing subtle but important shifts in the landscape. Permanent resident candidates will be interested to know that the following streams are seeing increases in immigration admission targets: A moderate increase in French-speaking admissions outside of Quebec and a substantial increase in 2026 for Provincial Nominees compared to 2025. On the other hand, there will be continued reductions in business immigration approvals (Start-Up Visa and Self-Employed persons programs) and a drastic cut to the approval of humanitarian and compassionate-based applications.

Keeping up with changes to Canadas immigration laws over the past 1.5 years has been a dizzying exercise to put it mildly, but a clear picture has emerged as to where immigration is heading and the Ministers November 7, 2025 levels report crystallizes what many of us working in this industry already knew: Newcomers will have a hard time getting approvals to come to Canada in the first instance and those already in Canada will have a difficult time staying if they cannot find a way to transition to permanent residency. The economic pathways to permanent residency will most likely remain highly competitive, and those hoping to qualify will have stronger prospects depending on whether their occupations are prioritized by this government and/or the provinces, the places they are looking to immigrate to, and upon factors such as their proficiency in French.

Victor Ing is a lawyer at Sas & Ing Immigration Law Centre. He provides a full range of immigration services.

For more information, go to canadian-visa-lawyer.com or email victor@sasanding.com.
Commentary

By Gerry Chidiac

A recent B.C. Supreme Court ruling regarding Indigenous land claims has caused a significant level of anxiety across Canada, due largely to a letter from the mayor of Richmond, B.C., to his constituents. What are the concerns? Are they justified? What does the future hold?

In his letter, Mayor Malcolm Brodie stated, Please take note that the recent B.C. Supreme Court decision of Cowichan Tribes v. Canada  made some very important decisions that could negatively affect the title to your property.

The case centred on whether the Cowichan Tribes and their partners could proceed with a claim for Aboriginal title over lands in the Richmond area, despite the land being privately held and developed. The court ruled that the claim could move forward, meaning a future trial could determine whether Aboriginal title might still apply to developed, privately owned land.

As a homeowner in British Columbia, I have no fear whatsoever that the title to my property will be negatively affected. I welcome the decision and see it as an important step in Canadas reconciliation process.

The ambiguity surrounding land claims in British Columbia dates back to colonial times. University of Northern B.C. professor Daniel Sims notes that while the Colony of Vancouver Island signed a few treaties in the 1850s, the Colony of British Columbia never did. As a result, Aboriginal title has never been resolved across most of the province. This legal reality has been acknowledged since at least 1850.

Aboriginal title is a legal recognition that Indigenous Peoples have land rights based on their long-standing occupation and use of traditional territories. It is not based on deeds or purchases under Canadian property law, but on continuous use and stewardship of the land.

Archaeological evidence shows the Lheidli Tenneh have lived in what is now Prince George, B.C., for at least 9,000 years. The land where my house stands was once part of the Fort George Indian Reserve. In 1911, the Indian Act was revised to allow railways to take lands from Indigenous communities, including entire reserves. That is precisely what happened when the Grand Trunk Pacific Railway decided to build a townsite at the confluence of the Nechako and Fraser rivers.

Many would argue this forced displacement could be viewed as falling within what some scholars describe as ethnic cleansing, depending on how the term is applied. The Oxford Public International Law database defines ethnic cleansing as various policies or practices aimed at the creation of an ethnically homogenous geographic area through the displacement of an ethnic group from that particular area. Even B.C. Conservative Leader John Rustad acknowledged in an interview that they (the Lheidli Tenneh) were forced out of that community and relocated to a community further upriver.

Stoking fears about land title loss reflects a colonial mindset that ignores the historical reality of how Indigenous lands were taken in the first place.

To understand the mindset of Indigenous leaders, we need to listen. In a recent video produced by Tourism Prince George, Lheidli Elder Darlene McIntosh states, We  invite our guests to come to our unceded ancestral territory to now honour our people.

Unceded means the land was never legally surrendered or sold to the Crown through treaty or agreement. This situation applies to most of British Columbia. As a result, legal uncertainty remains unresolved in many areas.

The truth is, we do not yet know the full implications of Cowichan Tribes v. Canada. But the steps we have already taken, from land acknowledgements to public education, have been constructive. This decision is part of that journey.

When I share my own land acknowledgement, I recognize the long history of the Lheidli Tenneh, the wrongs done to them, and how grateful I am to live where I do. Cowichan Tribes v. Canada gives us a chance to continue the reconciliation process, and any price paid to heal those wounds and build a better future is worth the investment.

Gerry Chidiac specializes in languages and genocide studies and works with at-risk students.
The Army has chosen Fort Drum in New York's Jefferson County as one of nine bases to be evaluated for an advanced small-scale nuclear power plant, Army officials announced today.

The Armys plan is to have commercial companies build nuclear plants capable of producing up to 20 megawatts to provide power at military installations. A traditional nuclear plant, by contrast, generates about 500 to 1,300 megawatts.

The effort is referred to as the Janus Program.

Final decisions have yet to be made about which of the sites will get new nukes, but Army officials said they intend to choose as many sites as possible.

The Army is committed to maximizing the number of sites based on technical feasibility, site suitability, and available resources, the news release said.

The other eight sites are: Fort Benning, Ga.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Wainwright, Alaska; Holston Army Ammunition Plant in Tennessee; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; and Redstone Arsenal in Alabama.

The Armys initiative at Fort Drum coincides with Gov. Kathy Hochuls plan to develop at least 1,000 megawatts of new nuclear capacity in New York by no later than 2040. The state power authority is currently soliciting proposals from developers.

The Armys initiative is likely to move ahead quickly compared with past nuclear developments.

President Trump signed four executive orders in May aimed at advancing nuclear power. Among other provisions, the president ordered military officials to collaborate with the Department of Energy to install a reactor at a military installation and begin operations by 2028.

Unlike nuclear operators who sell power in commercial markets, the military is not required to obtain a license to operate from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission.

In their news release, military officials said they will welcome feedback from host communities as the Janus Program proceeds.

The Army is committed to providing transparent information throughout the planning process and welcomes public engagement and feedback,' the release said.

State and national lawmakers from Upstate New York have lobbied for at least a year for Fort Drums selection.

Fort Drum had its own power supply until 2023, when the owners of a wood-burning power plant that supplied the base shut the plant down after failing to win renewed state subsidies. Since then, the base has drawn power from the statewide electric grid, said Assemblyman Scott Gray, R- Watertown.

Todays development is a strong signal of confidence in Fort Drum, the surrounding region and communities that have worked to position themselves for this opportunity,' Gray said in a prepared statement. The momentum behind advanced nuclear development is real, and Fort Drum is well-situated to lead."

Officials at Fort Drum could not be reached immediately for comment.

Home to the 10th Mountain Division, Fort Drum has about 15,000 soldiers and 3,700 civilian workers.

2025 Advance Local Media LLC. Visit syracuse.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
By Kashif Raza

The Conversation

When Zohran Mamdani campaigned for New York City mayor, he didnt sound like a typical American politician, speaking only English at his rallies and public appearances.

Instead, he switched between Arabic, Bangla, English, Hindi, Luganda, Spanish and Urdu to connect with diverse communities. He also made appearances on transnational media outlets to discuss issues that crossed borders.

I am a post-doctoral fellow at the University of British Columbia, studying the integration patterns of immigrants and how theyre shaped by the intersection of language, ethnicity and migration.

For me, Mamdanis story is more than a local success. It signals how politics is being reshaped by migration and multilingualism and how language itself has become a foundation of belonging in diverse democracies.

Mamdanis campaign began with a simple but powerful line:

Its time to take back our power and unleash the public sector to build housing for the many.

This message resonated across the citys working-class neighbourhoods  taxi drivers, nurses, delivery workers and students, many of them immigrants trying to make ends meet. What made it even more effective was how he delivered it: not just in English, but in the many languages New Yorkers speak.

He repeated his call for affordability and fairness in Arabic, Bangla, Urdu-Hindi, and Spanish. His campaign videos and flyers mixed languages the way people do in everyday life, switching easily between English and the languages of home.

This was about more than translation; it was about recognition and connection with people.

New York is one of the most linguistically diverse cities in the world, with more than 800 languages spoken. Nearly 35 per cent of its residents are born outside the United States.

Mamdani understood that voters dont leave their languages behind when they migrate. They use them to make sense of work, community and politics. By speaking to them in those languages, he showed that their voices mattered in shaping the citys future.

This approach reflects what scholars of migration linguistics  the study of how language and mobility shape one another in the process of migration, settlement and belonging  describe as multilingual political integration.

It is a way migrants connect identity to civic participation. Mamdanis campaign turned that bridge into a political strategy: one that viewed multilingualism not as an obstacle to democracy, but as its living proof.

It also serves as a quiet reality check on the long-standing melting pot ideal in the United States, which assumes immigrants must shed their languages and traditions to blend into a single American identity.

Mamdanis multilingual strategy also reflected the transnational reality of modern migration. His Urdu interview on Pakistans Geo News and his criticism of Indias Narendra Modi during conversations with Indian-origin voters in the U.S. blurred the line between domestic and global audiences.

These appearances were not campaign gimmicks; they acknowledged that diaspora communities are shaped by more than one national story.

Migration linguistics helps explain this dynamic. It studies how language practices move across borders and connect places of origin, settlement and diaspora. In Mamdanis case, multilingual communication created what scholars call transnational publics  shared spaces of conversation that stretch from New York to Karachi and Delhi.

When a politician addresses issues such as Islamophobia, immigration or housing in multiple languages, they are not only appealing to voters at home. They are engaging with a wider world of shared experiences that migration has woven together.

Language was only part of Mamdanis strategy. His campaign also used cultural expression  food, music and festivals  as forms of communication.

From Iftar gatherings during Ramadan to Diwali celebrations and South Asian street fairs, these events became spaces of multilingual interaction where taste, sound, and ritual carried political meaning.

Migration linguistics views such practices as intercultural competence: the use of cultural forms to express belonging and solidarity.

Mamdanis campaign showed that civic participation doesnt only happen in speeches or debates; it also happens in shared meals, songs and celebrations that remind people they belong to the same city.

Mamdanis brand of of politics holds lessons for Canada. Since I wrote on this topic earlier this year, immigrant and racialized voters are already changing how campaigns are organized and how communities mobilize.

Canadas largest cities, in particular Toronto and Vancouver, are among the most linguistically diverse in the world. Yet a lot of political outreach still assumes an English- or French-only audience.

Mamdanis campaign suggests another path. By engaging multilingual voters through their languages, stories and digital networks, politicians can build deeper, more authentic relationships.

Its time for Canadian politicians to move beyond teleprompters and translators and learn and use minority languages as a genuine way to connect with multilingual voters as they make up a significant portion of the electorate.

Kashif Raza is a Postdoctoral Fellow, Faculty of Education, University of British Columbia.

A Look at Multilingual Canada

 Canada is one of the most multilingual countries in the world, with extensive diversity in both official and non-official languages. Over 200 languages are spoken as mother tongues, and multilingualism is continuing to grow, especially due to immigration and linguistic diversity within communities.

Number of Languages Spoken

 More than 200 different languages were reported as a mother tongue in the 2021 census, with at least 18 of these having 100,000 or more first-language speakers.

 English and French are the two official languages, spoken by the vast majority (at least 98.1%) of Canadians.

 The most common non-official mother tongues are Mandarin (679,000), Punjabi (667,000), Yue/Cantonese (553,000), and Spanish (539,000).

Official Languages and Bilingualism

 About 22% of Canadians speak French as their first official language, and 76% speak English as their first official language.

 The proportion of Canadians who are bilingual in English and French is 18%, with higher ratesover 46%in Quebec.

 98.1% of the total population can converse in either English or French.

Multilingual Households and Population

 More than 3.1 million households, or 21% of Canadian households, are multilingual, meaning at least two languages are spoken at home.

 Over 41% of Canadians reported being able to converse in more than one language in the 2021 Census, a rise from 39% in 2016.

 12.7% of the Canadian population speak a language other than English or French at home, up from 7.7% in 1991.

 Roughly 7% of Canadians said they could speak three languages fluently, with higher trilingual populations in Quebec and Nunavut.

Indigenous and Sign Languages

 Over 70 Indigenous languages are spoken in Canada, with Cree languages being the most prevalentaround 86,480 speakers.

 Nearly 50,000 Canadians reported knowing a sign language, and about 28,000 use it regularly at home.

Canada's linguistic landscape continues to evolve rapidly, illustrating a pronounced trend toward multilingualism, driven by immigration, cultural diversity, and education policies.
MEXICO CITY (AP)  Mexico's president on Tuesday ruled out allowing U.S. strikes against cartels on Mexican soil, a day after U.S. President Donald Trump said he was willing to do whatever it takes to stop drugs entering the U.S.

Its not going to happen, President Claudia Sheinbaum said.

He (Trump) has suggested it on various occasions or he has said, we offer you a United States military intervention in Mexico, whatever you need to fight the criminal groups, she said. But I have told him on every occasion that we can collaborate, that they can help us with information they have, but that we operate in our territory, that we do not accept any intervention by a foreign government.

Sheinbaum said she had said this to Trump and to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on previous occasions and that they have understood.

Would I want strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? OK with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs, Trump said Monday, adding that hes not happy with Mexico.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico shared a video on X later Monday that included previous comments from Rubio saying that the U.S. would not take unilateral action in Mexico.

Meanwhile, Mexican and U.S. diplomats were trying to sort out Tuesday what may have been an actual U.S. incursion.

On Monday, men arrived in a boat at a beach in northeast Mexico and installed some signs signaling land that the U.S. Department of Defense considered restricted.

Mexicos Foreign Affairs Ministry said late Monday that the countrys navy had removed the signs, which appeared to be on Mexican territory. And on Tuesday, Sheinbaum said that the International Boundary and Water Commission, a binational agency that determines the border between the two countries, was getting involved.

The signs, driven into the sand near where the Rio Grande empties into the Gulf of Mexico, caused a stir when witnesses said men in a boat arrived at the local beach known as Playa Bagdad and erected them.

The signs read in English and Spanish, Warning: Restricted Area and went on to explain that it was Department of Defense property and had been declared restricted by the commander. It said there could be no unauthorized access, photography or drawings of the area.

The U.S. Embassy in Mexico shared a comment from the Pentagon Tuesday about the incident, confirming that contractors putting up signs to mark the National Defense Area III had placed signs at the mouth of the Rio Grande.

Changes in water depth and topography altered the perception of the international boundarys location," the statement said. "Government of Mexico personnel removed 6 signs based on their perception of the international boundarys location.

The Pentagon said the contractors would "coordinate with appropriate agencies to avoid confusion in the future.

Mexico had contacted its consulate in Brownsville, Texas and then the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. Eventually, it was determined that contractors working for some U.S. government entity had placed the signs, Sheinbaum said.

But the river changes its course, it breaks loose and according to the treaty you have to clearly demarcate the national border, Sheinbaum said during her daily press briefing.

The area is close to SpaceX Starbase, which sits adjacent to Boca Chica Beach on the Texas side of the Rio Grande.

The facility and launch site for the SpaceX rocket program is under contract with the Department of Defense and NASA, which hopes to send astronauts back to the moon and someday to Mars.

In June, Sheinbaum said the government was looking into contamination from the SpaceX facility after pieces of metal, plastic and rocket pieces were reportedly found on the Mexican side of the border following the explosion of a rocket during a test.

The area also carries the added sensitivity of Trump's order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, which Mexico has also rejected.
WASHINGTON (AP)  President Donald Trump said on Wednesday he plans to put greater attention on helping find an end to the brutal civil war in Sudan after being urged to take action by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Trump, who claims to have ended several wars since returning to office and has openly lobbied for the Nobel Peace Prize, admitted the conflict wasn't on my charts before his conversation with the crown prince.

But the president said he spoke in detail about the civil war with the de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia during their White House talks on Tuesday. The crown prince, Trump said, urged him to use the power and influence of the presidency to bring an end to the war.

His majesty would like me to do something very powerful having to do with Sudan, Trump said in remarks during a joint appearance with Prince Mohammed before U.S. and Saudi business leaders.

The fighting for control of Sudan has killed over 40,000 people and created the worlds worst humanitarian crisis, with over 14 million people displaced. The civil war, which started in April 2023, has pitted the Sudanese Armed Forces against the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces.

I thought it was just something that was crazy and out of control, Trump said as he shared the stage with the crown prince. But I just see how important that is to you, and to a lot of your friends in the room.

Trump said Prince Mohammed told him that bringing an end to the war would be the greatest thing you can do, that would be greater than what youve already done.

Trump's comments come after Secretary of State Marco Rubio last week called for a halt to the flow of military support coming to the paramilitary RSF from abroad.

The RSFs recent capture of North Darfurs capital, el-Fasher, left hundreds dead and forced tens of thousands of people to flee reported atrocities by the paramilitary force, according to aid groups and U.N. officials.

The International Organization for Migration said that nearly 90,000 people have left el-Fasher and surrounding villages, undertaking a perilous journey through unsafe routes where they have no access to food, water or medical assistance.

Saudi officials, in part, have argued to the administration that a further unraveling of Sudan could result in instability in the Red Sea and Africa and create conditions for extremist groups to exploit the moment to spread terrorism in the Middle East and beyond.

The war between the RSF and the military has split regional powers. Egypt, Turkey and Saudi Arabia have backed the Sudanese Armed Forces, while the United Arab Emirates, a close U.S. ally, has been sending weapons to the RSF, according to American intelligence findings.

Trump, following his remarks, said in a social media post that his administration will work with Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Egypt, and other Middle Eastern partners to get these atrocities to end, while at the same time stabilizing Sudan.

Trump appeared with Prince Mohammed as the crown prince wrapped up his first visit to Washington in seven years.
Adams County Parks Director Byron Fanning probably didnt expect to see the countys veterans memorial receive the treatment it did just one day after local residents honored those who served on Veterans Day.

Repeated Disrespect

Yet, for the 10th time in two years, Fanning was greeted with obscene messages, graffiti, and other damage at the Adams County Veterans Memorial in Brighton, Colorado. Local police and park officials said the park was vandalized sometime on Nov. 12.

Fanning told CBS News Colorado that costs to repair the damage could exceed $3,000. For some reason, the park has become a frequent target for vandals.

(The memorial) is actually a replica of the USS Colorado battleship from World War II, Fanning said.

The USS Colorado was a 32,600-ton battleship built in Camden, New Jersey, and commissioned in 1923. Before World War II, the ship served with the Navys Battle Fleet, conducting training and exercise drills. The battleship even helped in the search for famed pilot Amelia Earhart in 1937. During the war, the Colorado served in the South Pacific, guarding against Japanese attacks. The mighty ship survived two Kamikaze suicide bombers in 1944 and was decommissioned in 1947.

The Adams County Veterans Memorial in Brighton, Colorado. (Photo from Adams County Parks)

Honoring All Who Served

The memorial, which extends into Mann-Nyholt Lake, sits in Riverdale Regional Park and is an architectural masterpiece, according to the Adams County website. It was designed to honor all who served, especially those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for their country.

The replica is a detailed depiction of the USS Colorado and features marble monuments, paying homage to every branch of the military, plaques featuring quotes from presidents, and a wall telling stories of Adams County veterans. A concrete map greets visitors at the entryway, displaying all veterans memorials throughout the county.

The memorial provides a space for visitors to learn about local veterans and military history.

This is such a great place for people to come and reflect and really get deep into thought, Fanning said.

On Veterans Day, visitors dropped off flowers at the memorial, taking some time to remember those who served. But a day of tributes followed with a day of dismay and more cleanup and repairs for Fanning and his crew.

Its really frustrating, he said. It hurts my heart when it happens.

Fanning said the vandalism disrespects the community and its veterans.

Adams County officials shared photos of the graffiti on social media, but due to its obscene messages, they chose to blur the images.

Vandals splashed paint all over the replica, covering the ships cannons and a memorial bench. Fanning said the paint oozed down through small spaces in the bench, staining the platform below.

We've had to take the bench completely apart and rebuild it, he said.

The memorial wasnt the only park fixture that was damaged.

The USS Colorado sailing into New York Harbor in 1932. (Photo from U.S. Navy archives)

Memorial a Sacred Space

In addition to that, they did some damage to our restrooms, he said. They broke the backflow valve on the toilet, and unfortunately, we have a system that runs water into a vault in these restrooms, so we had to pump out the vault, which is really expensive.

County officials said the memorial is a main attraction in Brighton, bringing in about 60,000 visitors per year. According to Fanning, its become a sacred space for people to pause and reflect.

The parks director had a stern message for the vandals.

What youre doing is dishonoring veterans who served, gave their lives, gave their time, and defended this country, Fanning said. It is absolutely the wrong message to be damaging something that honors them.

After taking a few days to clean off the graffiti, county officials will shift to fixing other damages.

Its probably between $2,500 and $3,000, Fanning said, assessing the costs.

Fanning said Adams County residents can do their part by being vigilant and reporting suspicious activity around the park.

Whoevers doing this, please stop, he said. And help us take care of it.

The rash of vandalism has prompted extra patrols at night from local law enforcement, and county leaders plan to install security cameras around the park.
In July of 1950, the Korean War looked as if it was about to come to an unexpectedly quick conclusion. South Korean troops had been pushed far south before gradually falling into a defensive line around the port of Pusan. Across the Sea of Japan, American soldiers boarded transport planes at Itazuke Air Base, Japan, preparing to go into combat against an unfamiliar enemy.

The youngest among them had barely turned 19. Few had fought in World War II. Their commander was one of the few veterans. Lt. Col. Charles Bradford Smith graduated from West Point and was a Captain at Schofield Barracks when Pearl Harbor was attacked.

Within days, Smith's makeshift battalion from the 24th Infantry Division would fight the first ground battle involving American troops in the Korean War. While their defeat and rout are often remembered as a deadly consequence of military budget cuts, Task Force Smith fought a desperate delaying action that gave American forces time to fortify their perimeter and save South Korea.

The Korean War and a Desperate Mission

North Korean forces stormed across the 38th parallel on June 25, 1950, overwhelming South Korean forces. Within three days, Seoul fell. The Republic of Korea Army collapsed under the assault from Soviet-equipped communist divisions driving south toward the port of Pusan.

Maj. Gen. William F. Dean, commanding the 24th Infantry Division in Japan, was the first to be put on alert. His units had spent five years on occupation duty and were not anticipating combat. But they were the closest American forces available.

Dean summoned Smith to his headquarters and delivered straightforward orders: get to Taejon, push as far north as possible, and stop the North Koreans before they reached Pusan. Dean reportedly concluded with: "Sorry, I can't give you more informationthat's all I've got. Good luck, and God bless you and your men."

Task Force Smith of the 24th Infantry Division arriving at the railway station in Taejon, Korea. (Korean War Photograph Collection)

Smith's force consisted of 406 riflemen from B and C Companies of the 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment. Lt. Col. Miller O. Perry would bring 134 artillerymen from A Battery, 52nd Field Artillery Battalion, equipped with six 105mm howitzers. The infantry possessed half a communications platoon, half a heavy weapons platoon with six outdated M9A1 bazooka launchers, two 75mm recoilless rifles, two 4.2-inch mortars, and four 60mm mortars.

Perry's artillery battery carried 1,200 roundsbut only six armor-piercing shells capable of penetrating Soviet tank armor. Each soldier received 120 rounds of rifle ammunition and two days' rations. They had no anti-tank mines. While the soldiers were trained infantrymen, they were underequipped for the mission they were about to tackle.

The transport planes ferried the force across the ocean. Smith arrived in Korea mid-afternoon on July 1. By July 4, the full task force had assembled and moved north by rail and truck to defensive positions outside Osan. Other elements from the division arrived in increments in the following hours and days.

Soldiers from the 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, Gimlets, arrive in South Korea in 1950 to support the Republic of Korea in defending key locations from invading forces. The Gimlet soldiers, comprising Task Force Smith, participated in the Battle of Osan, which marked the US Armys first ground action of the Korean War. (Wikimedia Commons)

Holding the High Ground Above Osan

Smith immediately ordered his troops to hold the Seoul-Pusan highway north of Osan. His men dug in along ridgelines roughly 300 feet above the road, establishing a mile-long defensive front. One B Company platoon occupied high ground west of the highway. The remaining platoons spread east.

Mortar teams positioned their weapons 400 yards behind the infantry. Perry's howitzers were deployed 2,000 yards to the rear, but one crew was put up front with the infantry and given the anti-tank rounds.

As the men dug foxholes and prepared their weapons, they wondered when the enemy would arrive and what would happen next. Early on July 5, around 7:30 a.m., North Korean armor appeared on the highway.

Thirty-three T-34 tanks from the 107th Tank Regiment approached the American line. Perry's gunners provided indirect fire while the infantry opened up with whatever they could. The high-explosive shells proved harmless against the Soviet made armor, designed to deflect German anti-tank rounds. The 75mm recoilless rifles scored several direct hits but caused no damage.

Second Lt. Ollie Connor demonstrated exceptional bravery that morning. He maneuvered to within 15 yards of a T-34's rear armor, its weakest point. Connor fired 22 bazooka rockets. Every round ricocheted off. Other troops were cut down attempting the same tactic.

Perry's forward gun crew quickly exhausted all six anti-tank shells, knocking out only two T-34s while disabling two more. Once those specialized rounds were gone, conventional artillery proved worthless. By 10 a.m., most of the tank column had pushed past American positions, crushing communication wires and destroying parked vehicles. Approximately 20 American soldiers lay dead or wounded. The forward howitzer was destroyed.

Task Force Smith had faced enemy armor and refused to fall backeven though they realized their weapons were obsolete.

Men of the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division moving to the front during the Korean War. Photographer: Cpl. Charles A. Wright. (Wikimedia Commons)

The 24th Infantry Division Goes Into Combat

That same day, hours after Task Force Smith's engagement, elements of the 34th Infantry Regiment encountered the enemy tanks near Sojong-ni, about five miles south of Osan. Among them was Pfc. Kenneth Shadrick, a 19-year-old from Skin Fork, West Virginia, serving as an ammunition carrier for a bazooka team.

Army photographer Sgt. Charles R. Turnbull accompanied the team. Seeking dramatic war images, Turnbull asked Shadrick to count aloud"one, two, three"so he could capture the bazooka's muzzle flash. Shadrick complied, then he and his comrade fired at an approaching T-34. After the shot, the young soldier rose from his concealed position to observe where his round struck.

North Korean machine gun fire cut him down instantly. His comrades fell back, carrying his body with them as the only casualty of the skirmish. Turnbull's photograph captured Shadrick moments before death. War correspondent Marguerite Higgins, present when Shadrick's body reached the command post, was unaware of Task Force Smiths losses earlier and incorrectly reported Shadrick as the first American soldier killed in Korea.

Nevertheless, Shadrick became the war's first named and widely reported ground combat fatality. His photograph would become one of the conflict's most iconic images, capturing his heroic stand against North Korean tanks.

Kenneth R. Shadrick (right) looks on as another soldier, Robert L. Witzig, fires a bazooka at the Battle of Osan. Shadrick was killed by enemy fire a few moments after this photo was taken. He was incorrectly reported as the first U.S. soldier to die in the Korean War. (Wikimedia Commons)

Task Force Smith is Overrun

Shortly before noon on July 5, approximately 1,000 North Korean infantrymen from two regiments of the 4th Division appeared on the highway. Their column stretched for miles and included three more tanks in support. Upon approaching American positions, the North Koreans opened fire while flanking forces moved around both sides of the defensive line.

For hours, Task Force Smith held their ground. Rifle and machine gun fire shredded frontal assaults, but the enemy kept charging. Around 12:30 p.m., North Korean troops seized high ground west of the highway and began hitting the isolated B Company platoon from multiple directions. Smith ordered them to withdraw across the road.

Ammunition was running low. Enemy forces were about to encircle the entire formation, forcing Smith to order a withdrawal at 2:30 p.m.

What began as an organized withdrawal quickly deteriorated. As the men pulled back into the woods, they came under fire from the pursuing North Korean troops. Enemy forces, sent to flank the Americans, began hitting them too.

As the infantry fell back, Perrys artillerymen disabled their five remaining howitzers by removing sights and breechblocks. They too joined the retreating infantry.

One B Company platoon never received the withdrawal order. They held until they realized they were alone and surrounded. They abandoned most of their equipment and fled, leaving wounded soldiers behind with a medic who refused to leave.

Men became scattered, some dropped their weapons and sprinted away, a few refused to fall back and held their position to the last second. Others became disoriented and were never seen again.

By nightfall, only around 250 men had reached American lines. Others straggled in over the next few days. One group of survivors reached the American perimeter only minutes before the North Korean force did.

Following the withdrawal, Task Force Smiths casualties numbered around 60 killed, 21 wounded, and 82 missing or captured. Thirty-two prisoners would later die in North Korean captivity. Task Force Smith lost 40 percent of its strength.

Task Force Smith's withdrawal route near Osan, 5 July 1950. (Wikimedia Commons)

The Fighting Withdrawal

Behind Task Force Smith, the 34th Infantry Regiment established positions at Pyeongtaek. They too faced overwhelming odds and fell back. For two weeks, the 24th Infantry Division fought a series of increasingly desperate delaying actionsChonan, Chongjum, Chochiwon, the Kum River crossing.

At Taejon between July 16-20, the division made its final stand. General Dean personally fought alongside his troops, manning a bazooka against enemy tanks. When North Korean forces overran the city, Dean became separated from his command. He evaded capture for 36 days before North Koreans took him prisoner. Dean would spend three brutal years in POW camps as the highest-ranking American prisoner of war. He would eventually receive the Medal of Honor for his leadership at Taejon.

In sixteen days, the 24th Infantry Division retreated nearly 95 miles. Over 3,600 casualties30 percent losses, averaging 225 soldiers daily. On top of the loss of their commanding general, the division lost three regimental commanders, five battalion commanders, and nearly all heavy weapons.

By early August, American and South Korean forces had withdrawn behind the Naktong River to establish the Pusan Perimetera 140-mile defensive arc protecting the vital port. There would be no more retreats.

A Russian made T34/85 tank knocked out in Taejon, Korea, on 20 July stands as testimony to the heroic action of Major General William F. Dean, Commanding Officer, 24th Infantry Division. (Korean War Signal Corps Collection)

U.N. Forces Hold the Pusan Perimeter

Task Force Smith was forced the flee, but they bought Allied troops valuable time. So had the 24th Infantry Division over the previous two weeks. That time allowed reinforcements to be brought in through Pusan's docks and airfields.

The 25th Infantry Division, 1st Cavalry Division, 2nd Infantry Division, 5th Regimental Combat Team, 1st Provisional Marine Brigade, and the British 27th Commonwealth Brigade arrived through July and August. Over 500 tankswith proper anti-tank ammunitioncame ashore. Tons of vital supplies, ammunition, and modern weaponry were issued to the troops.

Lt. General Walton H. Walker, Commander, U.S. Eighth Army (left), and Major General William F. Dean, Commander, 24th Infantry Division, examine a map near the front lines somewhere in Korea. (Wikimedia Commons)

On August 1, Lt. Gen. Walton Walker formally established the Pusan Perimeter. He issued his famous order: "There will be no Dunkirk, there will be no Bataan. A retreat to Pusan would be one of the greatest butcheries in history. We must fight until the end."

From August 4 through September 18, approximately 140,000 UN troops repelled 98,000 North Korean attackers. Fierce battles erupted at the Naktong Bulge, Taegu, and Masan. Walker masterfully shuttled reserve forces to any sectors hit by the enemy while American aircraft decimated North Korean supply lines.

The perimeter held, due in part to Task Force Smith and the 24th Infantry Division, which bought the time necessary to establish and reinforce it. What might have been a complete North Korean victory in July became a stalemate in August, and the line had held.

On September 15, Gen. Douglas MacArthur's famous amphibious assault at Inchon led to the recapture of Seoul as his forces raced to cut off the North Korean supply lines. The next day, U.N. forces blitzed from the Pusan Perimeter, driving north. By the end of September, the battle to liberate all of South Korea had effectively been won.

The 24th Infantry Division was refit and reinforced before rejoining the fight. On the drive north, the men found many of the missing troops, including the wounded soldiers left behind. Most had been bound, tortured, and executed by the communists. The medic who stayed behind was never seen again. The division would fight in heavy combat through the rest of the war.

Map of the Naktong Defensive line, Pusan Perimeter, September 1950. (Wikimedia Commons)

Combat Lessons Forged in Blood

Task Force Smith's battle also led to widespread reforms in the U.S. Army. "No more Task Force Smiths" became an Army rallying cry and mindset going forward. Development and deployment of the 3.5-inch "Super Bazooka" accelerateda weapon that could actually penetrate Soviet armor. Training standards were transformed, emphasizing genuine combat readiness and supply.

Defense budgets increased dramatically as policymakers realized the dangers of budget cuts during the Cold War. Even after the conclusion of the Korean War, the military maintained its troop numbers and readiness.

Charles Bradford Smith as a Colonel in the United States Army. Smith famously led the first American troops into combat during the Korean War. Task Force Smith managed to delay North Korean forces while the Pusan Perimeter was fortified. (Wikimedia Commons)

President Harry Truman invited Task Force Smith survivors to the White House in June 1952. "We couldn't fight a war without the infantry," Truman told them. "Had it not been for the fact that these two divisions to which you belong had caused the Communists to hesitate, we possibly would not have been able to hold our position with the Korean Republic."

Smith survived the war, later advancing to brigadier general before retiring in 1965. Second Lt. Ollie Connor later rose to lieutenant general, commanding Third Army before his retirement in 1972.

Soldiers of the 19th Infantry Regiment, 24th Infantry Division breaking out of the Pusan Perimeter. Photographer: Cpl. D. P. Buckley. (Wikimedia Commons)

A Monument to Task Force Smith

Today, a memorial stands north of Osan honoring Task Force Smith's sacrifice. Each July 5, America and South Korea hold ceremonies there. The 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment continues serving, now part of the 25th Infantry Division based in Hawaii.

The soldiers of Task Force Smith executed an impossible mission with inadequate weapons against an overwhelming force. They didn't stop the North Koreans, though the 540 Americans tried their best. But they did delay the enemy for nearly eight hours that first day, then for two weeks alongside the rest of the 24th Infantry Division.

Those hours allowed Pusan's port to receive the reinforcements that would hold the perimeter. The perimeter's defense enabled MacArthur to land at Inchon. Inchon led to South Korea's liberation.

South Korean sailors in formation in front of the Task Force Smith memorial at Osan. (Wikimedia Commons)

While Task Force Smith is often cited as an example of unprepared and undersupplied troops being sent into combat, their efforts managed to turn the tide of the war. Their ordeal also taught the Army hard lessons about readiness, ensuring future soldiers would not endure what they had.

While the Korean War ended with an armistice along the 38th Parallel, South Korea continues to exist today as one of Americas most important allies, thanks in part to the small American force who faced an overwhelming North Korean enemy.
Sovereign Immunity and Closed Courthouses

For most of American History, suing the federal government was nearly impossible. The old English maxim  the King can do no wrong  carried over into American law as sovereign immunity. If federal employees injured you, the courts generally turned you away. Congress occasionally passed private bills granting relief in individual cases, but the system was slow, political, and inconsistent. The result was a patchwork of remedies that depended less on fairness and more on legislative grace.

Most servicemembers do not learn about the Feres Doctrine until it bars them from courts. It is the rule that prevents a soldier injured by a negligently driven military vehicle from filing a lawsuit, while a civilian injured in the same exact accident could file. Families of troops killed in preventable on-base accidents and mothers who have had newborns injured through inadequate medical care are told the death was incident to service and beyond judicial remedy. The doctrine has shaped military life for 75 years, yet Congress never wrote it; the Supreme Court created it in a line of cases that began with promise and ended with restriction.

Original newspaper article discussing the fire at the barracks.

The Promise of the Federal Tort Claims Act

By the early 1900s, pressure mounted for a more coherent system. For generations, sovereign immunity  a legal doctrine protecting governments from being sued without their consent  shielded the United States from negligence suits, forcing the injured to beg Congress for ad hoc relief. The number of claims from citizens harmed by postal trucks, military accidents, or negligence by government workers was rising. Lawmakers were increasingly frustrated at spending floor time debating individual relief bills for families ruined by government mistakes.

In 1946, after decades of debate, Congress passed the Federal Tort Claims Act (FTCA). For the first time, private citizens could bring negligence claims against the federal government in federal court, with the potential of the United States being held liable in the same manner and to the same extent as a private individual under like circumstances. It was a watershed moment: complete sovereign immunity was broadly waived, opening the courthouse doors to ordinary Americans.

Brooks v. United States (1949): The First Crack

The FTCA reached uniformed personnel almost immediately. In Brooks v. United States (1949), two soldiers on leave were riding in a private vehicle and were struck by an Army truck. The Court allowed their FTCA suit, emphasizing that military status alone does not extinguish a claim where the injury is not related to service duties. The opinion expressly contemplated that injuries arising out of or in the course of military duty might be different, but it refused any blanket exclusion for servicemembers.

Feres v. United States (1950)

The very next term, the Court shut the door on most on-duty claims. In Feres v. United States (1950), three cases were consolidated to test the FTCA when the alleged negligence was intertwined with service: a deadly barracks fire caused by a defective heating system, a surgical towel left inside a soldier, and fatal malpractice at a military facility. Justice Robert Jackson acknowledged the statute contained no explicit carve-out for troops, yet the Court held the FTCA does not cover injuries incident to service.

The Supreme Court grounded Feres on three policy reasons, none of which appear in any text of the FTCA. First, the Court argued because the relationship between the military and servicemembers is distinctively federal, it would be inappropriate to apply varying state tort laws to uniformed personnel. Second, it pointed to the existence of veterans benefits as an alternative, exclusive form of compensation for military injuries. Third, it warned that allowing tort suits could undermine military discipline by dragging command decisions into courtrooms and subjecting them to civilian juries. Together, these concerns have been cited repeatedly to justify the doctrine, even as critics note their weakness and absence of statutory support.

The original court opinion, 1950.

From Brooks to Feres: The Sharp Turn and Its Expansion

The contrast is stark: Brooks confirmed troops could sue when the harm was not tied to duty; Feres announced that when it was, the courts were closed. Over time, lower courts read incident to service broadly to bar claims from medical malpractice at base hospitals to training accidents and other on-duty harms. The Congressional Research Service has described how the doctrine grew into a sweeping immunity that regularly forecloses FTCA remedies for servicemembers while leaving civilians claims intact.

The court invented, but never clearly defined, the phrase incident to service, so courts have interpreted it expansively to cover almost any injury connected to a servicemembers duty status. It does not matter whether the harm was on or off base, during training, or in a hospital. It does not matter whether the injury involved housing negligence or even assault by another servicemember  if the injury is deemed to arise out of military service, it meets the criteria. This elasticity has allowed Feres to sweep in cases far removed from combat or command decisions, turning what sounded like a narrow limitation into a near-total shield against liability whenever the injured party wears a uniform.

Criticism from the Start

Critics have long argued Feres is policy masquerading as statutory interpretation: the FTCAs text does not say what the Court made it say. Justice Scalia urged reconsideration in United States v. Johnson (1987), and in 2019 Justice Thomas wrote Feres was wrongly decided and heartily deserves the widespread, almost universal criticism it has received, in a dissent for a denial of certiorari. In another dissent in 2025, Justice Thomas wrote: As I have said before, we should fix the mess that we have made. Scholarly treatments have also labeled the doctrine as a judicial invention that distorts the FTCAs structure.

What Comes Next

Understanding Feres requires seeing how a broad statutory waiver in 1946 met a Supreme Court worried about command and discipline just four years later. Brooks opened a path; Feres paved it shut with the elastic phrase incident to service. Part II will cover the human cost and what this rule has meant for medical malpractice victims, training and housing disasters, and families who discovered too late that the courthouse doors are closed to those who swore to defend their nation.
Marines Prepare for an AI-Driven Future

The Marine Corps War College is integrating artificial intelligence into staff planning, wargaming, and decision-making exercises as part of a broader effort to prepare officers for a future where human and machine capabilities are deeply connected.

AI is not replacing leadership. It is meant to support it. That is the guiding idea behind several new pilot programs the college is testing as the Corps moves through Force Design 2030.

Retired Rear Admiral Chris Boris Becker, who sits on the board of Atombeam Technologies, said the goal is to help commanders think faster and more clearly in information-heavy environments.

AIs real value is in freeing a commanders cognitive capacity for the necessary thinking, Becker said. It can accelerate and sharpen a decision makers understanding of the battlespace even as sensors and communications systems create overwhelming volumes of data.

How AI Tools Are Being Tested in Training

The Marine War College is experimenting with machine learning across three areas: intelligence support, Course of Action development, and predictive modeling in wargaming scenarios.

These tools are still human-guided. Instructors supervise every output, and students are trained to use AI the same way they use any decision aid.

At Ethos, a company already supporting AI-driven training within the Department of the Navy, Co-Founder and CEO Andrew Powell said the goal is not automation. It is smarter human oversight.

We build AI tools that help warfighters be more efficient and effective without losing sight of the human in the loop, Powell said. AI can convert an 800-page technology manual into a course in minutes, but the human expertise comes in validating and fine-tuning the content.

Powell said this approach mirrors what MCWAR is building: human-machine workflows that speed up preparation while reinforcing the importance of instructor judgment.

Instant Feedback and Data-Driven Learning

One of the biggest shifts AI is bringing to military education is real-time performance feedback.

Ethos tools provide what Powell calls datafication of learning. Every action inside a lesson generates data for instructors. Instead of waiting for end-of-course assessments, leaders can intervene early when a student struggles.

One of our Department of the Navy partners saw a 50 percent reduction in course failure rates after modernizing their training with AI, Powell said. It saved them more than two million dollars in one year.

This type of adaptive instruction is expected to become more common as AI tools reach full authorization on classified networks. Ethos already works on NIPRNet and SIPRNet with Authority to Operate up to Impact Level 6.

U.S. Marine Corps Sgt Ryan Ashorn, a student with Infantry Unit Leaders Course, Advanced Infantry Training Battalion, and a native of California, prepares to assault an objective during a combined arms live fire exercise at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina, August 9, 2025. The exercise was designed to build and refine IULC students capabilities in tactical decision-making, leadership skills, and technical proficiency. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Channah Chilton)

Learning When to Trust the Machine

Trust remains a challenge for any AI system used in military settings. Modern models can hallucinate or provide convincing but incorrect conclusions.

Becker said understanding AIs limits is just as important as learning how to use it.

Leaders have to be on guard for false conclusions or hallucinations, he said. Learning how much trust to place in AI is just as important as having the capability.

He added that the Marine Corps has a long history of adopting new technology while managing risks. The Corps learned how to innovate during the development of amphibious warfare, and Becker believes the same mindset will guide AI adoption.

Any innovation can have shortfalls, Becker said. Marines have a history of recognizing risks and mitigating them while still reaping the benefits.

Operational Impact for Force Design 2030

AI experimentation at MCWAR connects directly to Force Design 2030. Future stand-in forces will often operate in small, distributed units with limited time and information.

Junior officers may face situations where they rely on AI tools to help assess threats or understand complex environments. AI is intended to support them, not replace their judgment.

Becker said the key is remembering what has not changed.

Focus on the humans. The machines will change, he said. The need to equip, train, and lead Naval forces to victory will be with us for the next 250 years.

The Next Step for Military Education

Powell believes AI will be a defining part of military training over the next five years. A 2025 Government Accountability Office report identified shortages of trained personnel and rapid modernization as major readiness challenges. Powell calls this the HumanTechnology Divide.

In his view, AI will help close that gap as long as institutions work with trusted partners who understand both security requirements and the pace of commercial innovation.

Adopting new technology is always an adjustment, Powell said. I would prioritize finding a commercial partner with a proven track record with government agencies to help integrate AI and protect sensitive materials.

The Marine War Colleges early experiments hint at what the next generation of training could look like: faster assessments, smarter wargames, more informed decisions, and officers prepared to lead human-machine teams across a contested battlespace.

The Bottom Line

AI is entering Marine Corps education at a deliberate pace. The focus is simple:

Use machines to make Marines smarter, faster, and better prepared for the fights ahead.

Human leadership remains at the center.

Sources
On November 13, 2025, the sound of gunfire echoed through the streets of Port-au-Prince as U.S. Marines guarding the American embassy faced an unexpected assault from suspected gang members.

The Exchange of Fire

The incident unfolded when a group of armed individuals, believed to be affiliated with the Viv Ansanm gang alliance, opened fire on Marines supporting embassy security operations. According to official statements from the Marine Corps, the troops returned fire, neutralizing the immediate threat without sustaining any injuries.

Captain Steven J. Keenan, a Marine Corps spokesman, confirmed the details, noting that no Marines were injured.

A U.S. Marine from Alert Contingency Platoon 6, 1st Fleet Anti-terrorism, Norfolk, Va., stands guard outside the U.S. embassy in support of Operation Unified Response. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Richard Andrade)

Haiti's Ongoing Turmoil

Haiti's capital remains a battleground dominated by powerful gang coalitions, with groups like Viv Ansanm controlling up to 80 percent of Port-au-Prince. The crisis has escalated in 2025, with over 4,200 people killed in gang-related violence and more than 1.3 million displaced across the country. United Nations data paints a grim picture, noting that at least 5,600 fatalities occurred in similar incidents last year, with the trend showing no signs of abating. Recent operations by Haitian police and international forces have targeted gang strongholds, prompting retaliatory threats and widespread panic.

For the Marines stationed at the embassy, this environment demands constant vigilance. Deployed to bolster security, they operate under strict rules of engagement while facing daily risks. The State Department has maintained a Level 4 travel advisory for Haiti, citing kidnapping, crime, and civil unrest as pervasive threats. Embassy staff have been reduced to essential personnel, and movements outside the compound are heavily restricted. A recent security alert from the U.S. Embassy in Port-au-Prince warned of potential widespread protests and increased gang activity, advising all personnel to avoid unnecessary travel.

U.S. Marine Corps Lance Corporal Jeremy Seilhan observes his sector during Continuing Promise 2022 in Jeremie, Haiti, Dec. 12, 2022. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by 1stLt William Reckley)

Echoes of Past Interventions

The November 13 shootout is not isolated but echoes recent U.S. military engagements in Haiti. In March 2024, the Marine Corps dispatched a special response unit to the embassy following a partial evacuation amid escalating gang violence, as detailed in a Military.com article on the deployment. That operation allowed non-emergency personnel to depart safely and reinforced security measures, much like the current setup.

Looking further back, U.S. forces have provided disaster relief in Haiti, including after the 2021 earthquake and Tropical Storm Grace, where Army, Navy, Air Force, and Coast Guard units coordinated aid efforts that saved lives but highlighted the country's fragility. These missions, covered extensively on Military.com, show a pattern of humanitarian involvement intertwined with security needs.

Broader historical U.S. actions in the Caribbean, including interventions in Haiti during periods of instability, are outlined in a Military.com timeline of attacks and congressional responses. While not always successful in achieving long-term stability, they inform today's strategies.

Implications for the Future

The embassy incident raises questions about sustained U.S. commitment in Haiti without a full-scale intervention. State Department officials have recognized that instability in Haiti can directly lead to safety issues for the United States.. As one spokesperson noted in a briefing, "The United States remains committed to supporting the Haitian people in their efforts to restore security and democratic governance." Yet, with gangs issuing public calls for mobilization, the pressure on Marines and diplomats intensifies.

For now, the embassy stands as a fortified outpost in a city under siege, with Marines at the forefront of defense. Their role, while defensive, symbolizes U.S. interests in regional stability. As Haiti grapples with its crisis, incidents like this serve as stark reminders of the human cost and the need for coordinated global action.
By Rochelle Baker

Local Journalism Initiative Reporter

Prime Minister Mark Carney announced the addition of the North Coast Transmission Line to his list of projects of national importance on Thursday.

The $6-billion transmission line in northern BC will now be fast-tracked by the Major Projects Office, developed by the federal government to speed proposals expected to boost Canadas economy and lessen trade dependence with the United States and the impact of US President Donald Trumps tariff regime.

The transmission line is part of a larger strategy to take advantage of and expand the countrys clean electricity grid and ensure Canada benefits from its enormous gas and critical mineral reserves, Carney said.

Clean electrification is the path  the only path  to building a sustainable, prosperous economy, he said.

The Canada Infrastructure Bank (CIB) is providing a $140 million loan to fund early work on the transmission line to BC Hydro, Carney added.

The NCTL also features in the development of another new major project: a proposed northwest critical conservation corridor across northern BC and the Yukon meant to open access to the critical minerals in the region while also creating a conservation area the size of Greece, the prime minister said.

As part of the corridor proposal, the government will aim to build new transmission lines, upgrade highways, install fibre and cell towers and invest in communities in the region while encouraging meaningful Indigenous ownership and promoting the conservation of our natural heritage for future generations, Carney said. Carney also announced five other projects, including the proposed Ksi Lisims LNG export project slated for BCs north coast near Prince Rupert.

The other projects include:

 The Iqaluit Nukkiksautiit hydroelectric project;

 The Nouveau Monde Graphite Phase 2 project in Quebec;

 The Sisson Mine, for critical minerals, in New Brunswick; and

 The Crawford Nickel project in Ontario.

The North Coast Transmission Line (NCTL), expected to take between eight and 10 years to construct, will power liquified natural gas (LNG) export facilities, mining and natural gas production, as well as Prince Rupert port expansions.

It will double electricity flowing from Prince George to Terrace and, at a later stage, northward to Bob Quinn Lake. The BC government has been pushing for federal funding for the project and for it to make Carneys major projects list.

The NCTL is the backbone for provincial and federal ambitions to expand and secure LNG export projects on the West Coast and to provide needed power to draw mining investment to the northern reaches of BC.

It will also provide clean electricity to power those industries and natural gas production and transport to reduce the burning of fossil fuels and curb the resulting carbon pollution.

The NCTL plans also include a potential substation expansion and spur line to serve the Port of Prince Rupert and expand the nearby Ridley Island export terminal, now dubbed the Ridley Island Energy Export Facility(REEF), to boost the export of propane, butane and possibly ethane to Asian markets.

The third phase of the transmission line project spans Terrace north to Bob Quinn Lake and is still in early development. It is key to a proposal to link the power grids of BC and Yukon..

The two governments signed a memorandum of understanding in May intended to drive economic development and increase the flow of clean energy to the territory, which still leans on fossil fuels for electricity, especially in remote areas.

Carneys first round of major projects announced in September included two other resource projects in BC long in development: the Red Chris copper and gold mine and Phase 2 of the existing LNG Canada project in Kitimat, expected to double the plants output.

Neither LNG Canada Phase 2 nor Ksi Lisims have secured a final investment decision, but the transmission line is expected to sweeten the deal and attract the needed capital.

Ksi Lisims is required by the province to use clean electricity to operate, but LNG Canadas second phase was previously approved to operate gas turbines at the plant. Shell, the lead company partnered in the project, has said it would transition to electricity once it's available.

The BC government has already taken steps to fast-track the power project, including bypassing a review by the provinces independent regulator, the BC Utilities Commission, to stave off a possible 18-month delay to construction. However, the push by the province is raising questions of transparency, cost allocation and risk to ratepayers.

The project has also been exempted from an environmental review, a move drawing heavy criticism from conservation groups and First Nations concerned about the lack of consultation and potential environmental impacts of the project.

Eby has also declared the project is non-negotiable, declaring hes prepared to call an early election if Bill 31 tied to the NCTL isnt passed. The legislation will allow the province to prioritize the projects that get power and offer a pathway for First Nations to invest in co-ownership in the transmission line.

Using clean power to produce LNG wont protect Canada from climate impacts when its burned overseas, said Marc Lee, senior economist with the Canadian Centre of Policy Alternatives.

Despite the transmission lines potential economic benefits for First Nations and mining expansion in the North to diversify exports, theres a real risk that the provincial and federal governments LNG ambitions wont be realized, leaving the province with stranded assets and a surplus of energy without enough customers to pay for it, Lee said.

Its mostly LNG demand thats driving the NCTL, Lee said. Yet there are numerous predictions that there will be a decline in demand in the coming decade.

Our politicians are all racing to get this stuff built to show that they're doing stuff for the economy, but it may just be a complete white elephant.

Carney suggested otherwise on Thursday, claiming that by 2040, global LNG demand is expected to rise by 60 per cent and Canada will be ready.

The NCTL line does open up opportunities for port electrification, mining and economic development in northern BC and potentially the Yukon and the benefit of construction jobs in various regions where it will be built, said Werner Antweiler, a Sauder School of Business professor at the University of British Columbia.

Given that a number of LNG projects are set to come online, the project offers the potential for significantly reduced emissions.

I think the benefit to the BC economy is pretty clear, Antweiler said, but the billion-dollar question is who will pay for it.

The province needs to be transparent about its new tariff scheme and set a rate structure to recover the cost from project proponents.

Lee isnt optimistic that will happen.

It's going to be spread over all rate payers like you and me and the small businesses and office buildings down the street, he said.

Rochelle Baker / Local Journalism Initiative / Canadas National Observer.
Santa and his sleigh driver pass by families during the White Lake Area Christmas Parade in downtown Whitehall on Dec. 7, 2013. The Muskegon Chronicle Muskegon Chronicle File Photo

WHITEHALL, MI -- The White Lake area will bring big Christmas cheer coupled with small town charm for its annual Christmas parade.

From 2-3 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 6 more than 50 floats, marching bands, and parade marchers will wind through downtown Montague and Whitehall.

The White Lake Area Chamber prides itself on bringing a very special slice of small town America.

The grand finale will be Santa and Mrs. Claus in a horse-drawn carriage.

Ryleigh Smith 6, of Whitehall gets a candy cane from Santa in his house after the parade the White Lake Area Christmas Parade. This Muskegon Chronicle File Photo is from December 2014. Muskegon Chronicle File Photo

Led by The American Legion and VFW, the parade will begin at Whitehall City Hall and end at Montague City Hall.

Santa will visit with children at his home outside of Montague City Hall, located at 8778 Ferry St.

MORE IN WHITE LAKE AREA: Worlds Largest Weather Vane inspired by Lake Michigan shipwreck 123 years ago

While visiting the small lake towns, check out live music at Fetch Brewing, a renovated old bank, learn more about the worlds largest weathervane in Montague or see the areas historic light station, White River Light Station in Whitehall.

MORE HOLIDAY CHEER: Polar Express train, Santa pub crawl: Celebrate 2025 Christmas season in Muskegon

If you catch a snowy Saturday, grab a sled and head to Hanson Street in Whitehall, which closes down for public sledding on the hill when conditions are just right for the White Lake Snow Farmers to do their magic.

After hitting the sledding hill, you can warm up at the fire pit with circular seating located at The Commons, directly behind Fetch Brewing Company and next to Mylans Waterfront Grille.

The White Lake area Christmas Parade includes Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, the Whitehall and Montague marching bands and several emergency vehicles from both cities. This Muskegon Chronicle File Photo is from December 2014. Muskegon Chronicle File Photo

LAKE HISTORY: This light station guided lumber across Lake Michigan after the Great Chicago Fire
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Cheap Trick recently announced the upcoming All Washed Up Tour set to run from early March through late April, 2026.

Following their Royal Flush 2025 trek with Heart, Cheap Trick will kick off the 2026 All Washed Up Tour on Tuesday, March 3 at the Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The 15-stop outing includes performances at Hard Rock Live in Orlando, Seneca Niagara Casino in Niagara Falls, and more  bringing the Rock & Roll Hall of Famers to the Venetian Theatre in Las Vegas for back-to-back nights in April before closing out with two dates in California. The final show is currently set for Friday, April 24 at Humphreys Concerts by the Bay in San Diego.

Tickets to the All Washed Up Tour officially go on sale Friday, November 21 at 10 a.m. local time on Ticketmaster and cheaptrick.com. Fans can also shop on alternate ticketing sites like Vivid Seats and StubHub.

Cheap Trick concert schedule:

Sun, Nov 23  Climate Pledge Arena; Seattle, WA

Tue, Dec 2  Baxter Arena; Omaha, NE

Wed, Dec 4  Resch Center; Green Bay, WI

Sat, Jan 24  The Sylvee; Madison, WI

Sun, Jan 25  Vibrant Music Hall; Waukee, IA

Wed, Feb 25  Hertz Arena; Estero, FL

Fri, Feb 27  The BayCare Sound; Clearwater, FL

Sat, Feb 28  St. Augustine Amphitheatre; St. Augustine, FL

Tue, Mar 3  Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Auditorium; Chattanooga, TN **

Wed, Mar 4  Tennessee Theatre; Knoxville, TN **

Fri, Mar 6  Margaritaville Resort Casino; Bossier City, LA **

Sat, Mar 7  Beau Rivage Theatre; Biloxi, MS **

Mon, Mar 9  King Center; Melbourne, FL **

Wed, Mar 11  Hard Rock Live; Orlando, FL **

Sat, Mar 21  Premier Theater at Foxwoods Resort Casino; Mashantucket, CT **

Fri, Mar 27  Hollywood Casino at Charles Town Races; Charles Town, WV **

Sat, Mar 28  The Pantheon at Caesars Virginia; Danville, VA **

Fri, Apr 3  Xcite Center - Parx Casino and Racing; Bensalem, PA **

Sat, Apr 4  Seneca Niagara Casino; Niagara Falls, NY **

Fri, Apr 17  Venetian Theatre at the Venetian Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV **

Sat, Apr 18  Venetian Theatre at the Venetian Las Vegas; Las Vegas, NV **

Wed, Apr 22  Vina Robles Amphitheatre; Paso Robles, CA **

Fri, Apr 24  Humphreys Concerts by the Bay; San Diego, CA **

Royal Flush Tour with Heart

** All Washed Up Tour

..
Photo from the U.S. Department of Justice

While investigating Orduna Plumbing, federal agents executed a search warrant and found nine men living at a house in Rochester, New York. (Photo from the U.S. Department of Justice in the criminal complaint) Photo from the U.S. Department of Justice

ROCHESTER, NY - A Michigan couple who operate a multi-state plumbing company are accused of generating $74 million in revenue by employing at least 140 undocumented immigrants, according to federal investigators.

Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios, from Plymouth, were arrested and charged with the alleged conspiracy in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of New York, according to a criminal complaint that was unsealed Tuesday, Nov. 18.

The federal government alleges the couple staffed their company, Orduna Plumbing Inc., with undocumented workers. Orduna Plumbing operates in New York, Michigan, North Carolina and Ohio. The couple also took workers passports and housed them in overcrowded houses and hotel rooms, the complaint says.

Related: Michigan steakhouse owner hired and housed 12 undocumented workers, feds say

Orduna Plumbing employed an estimated 253 people, but federal investigators could only confirm six were legally allowed to work and live in the United States.

Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios appeared in court Tuesday in the Eastern District of Michigan and were released on a $10,000 bond. Their appointed federal community defense attorney, Stacey Studnicki, did not respond to a request for comment.

Federal court records show the investigation unfolded in western New York over five years.

It started in January 2020 when U.S. Border Patrol agents in Buffalo crossed paths with undocumented immigrants who were driving vehicles registered to Orduna Plumbing, court documents say.

Agents were surveilling an extended-stay hotel in Amherst, New York when they approached a man standing by an Orduna Plumbing work van. He told them the van belonged to his boss and that he was illegally present in the United States, the feds say. The Agents found two more undocumented immigrants were in his hotel room. All three were arrested.

A month later in February 2020, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, ICE, in Charlotte, North Carolina stopped a van registered to Moises Orduna-Rios. ICE then arrested five people who were in the country illegally, court documents say.

In April 2023, ICE arrested five undocumented Mexican immigrants who were leaving a Buffalo, New York house in another Orduna Plumbing vehicle.

Then throughout 2024, New York Border Patrol agents stopped three other vehicles belonging to Orduna-Rios, arresting another eight undocumented workers.

Law enforcement then got a search warrant to look at WhatsApp messages on one of the employees phones.

In an October 2024 conversation, the employee told Orduna-Rios that it was dangerous in the Buffalo area because they are indocumentados or undocumented, court documents say. The worker said things would be difficult if he got deported back to Mexico.

Orduna-Rios then relocated the crew to Rochester but apologized for not being able to house the employee in the company house because there were too many people living there, the complaint says.

Federal investigators say they executed a search warrant in February at the four-bedroom house and found nine men living there with very little furniture except for mattresses on the floor of each bedroom.

Photos of the housing conditions included in the criminal complaint brought against Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios. (Photo from the U.S. Department of Justice) Photo from the U.S. Department of Justice

All nine, five from Mexico and four from Nicaragua, were arrested. Only one was released because he had an ongoing immigration case.

The rest were in the country illegally, investigators say.

When federal agents searched a workers phone, they found a WhatsApp conversation with Raquel Oduna-Rios. She allegedly asked him to send workers passports, and he responded saying he would send 14 in a box.

In group messages, Moises Orduna-Rios also gave instructions to employees about payroll, using work cars, buying tools and housing rules, according to the complaint.

Then on Feb. 1, Orduna-Rios sent a message apparently warning about immigration enforcement activities that were increasing around that time. He said with all the controversy that is going on, workers should drive the speed limit, limit trips to the store and refrain from having gatherings such as barbeques, court documents show.

Dont worry about the jobs, I was researching and they cant (sic) enter the projects unless they have an order and have notified the construction company, he wrote.

Orduna-Rios then followed up with a message copied and pasted from an immigration website about what rights undocumented immigrants have in the U.S.

After that, investigators discovered through tax records that Orduna Plumbing paid hundreds of employees who were known to be in the U.S. illegally through bank accounts controlled by the couple.

These records showed the company employed 253 people from 2022 to 2024.

Of those, 112 workers were known to be illegally present in the United States because they had previously crossed paths with immigration officials. Another 28 had overstayed their visas or did not have a visa that allowed them to work.

There were no records for the remaining 107 employees, meaning they were either in the country illegally but had never interacted with immigration officials or they were U.S. citizens who never applied for a passport.

Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios have been charged with harboring undocumented workers for commercial advantage or private financial gain, employing at least 10 unauthorized aliens, engaging in a pattern of hiring undocumented immigrants and money laundering.

If found guilty, the couple faces up to 10 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 per each undocumented worker.

They are next scheduled to appear in the Western District of New York on Dec. 2.
WALLOON LAKE, MI  More than a dozen people are without a home after a fire at a historic lodge in Northern Michigan.

Fourteen or 15 people are displaced due to the fire that happened Wednesday morning at Elvyn Lea Lodge on M-75 in Walloon Lake, WPBN/WGTU reports. No injuries were reported. The residents were taken to a local church to await the arrival of the American Red Cross and Salvation Army.

Officials with Melrose Township Fire Department told the TV station that a lithium battery charger appears to be the cause of the blaze. The north end of the building went up in flames while the south end has smoke damage.

The lodge was constructed in the late 1950s, the report said. It was previously used as tourism lodging. In recent years, it has served as workforce housing with private rooms and bathrooms, but common kitchen and living spaces.
KINGSFORD, MI  Police have identified a woman as the victim of a deadly apartment fire in Michigans Upper Peninsula over the weekend.

Katrina Miilu, 33, died early Saturday in a second-floor apartment fire on Breitung Avenue in Kingsford, WLUC reports.

After finding Miilu in the upstairs apartment, first responders pulled her out and attempted to resuscitate her but were unsuccessful; she was later pronounced dead, the report said. The first-floor apartments were evacuated, and no other injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

RELATED: 1 dead after apartment fire in U.P.
Jake Lang, a Jan. 6 rioter and anti-Islam activist, leads a protest on Michigan Avenue in Dearborn on Nov. 18, 2025. Fuad Shalhout -- MLive.com

DEARBORN, MI  A pair of dueling demonstrations unfolded along Schaefer Road and Michigan Avenue on Tuesday, Nov. 18, as anti-Islam activists and pro-Muslim counter-protesters clashed in front of a heavy police presence before moving toward Dearborn City Hall for the evening council meeting.

The city, home to one of the largest Muslim populations in the United States, has recently become a repeated target for out-of-state activists who falsely claim it operates under Sharia law.

The tensions began when Jake Lang, a Jan. 6 rioter who has described himself as a political prisoner, arrived on Michigan Avenue attempting to burn a Quran.

Lang tried several times to ignite the book, holding it up with a lighter, but counter-protesters repeatedly knocked it from his hands.

At one point, Lang stepped into the center of Michigan Avenue and tapped the Quran with a slab of bacon before a Muslim counter-protester snatched the book and ran off with it.

Langs group later marched toward City Hall ahead of the 7 p.m. meeting.

Curtis Hertel, chair of the Michigan Democratic Party, released the following statement.

Attempting to burn a religious document is an unacceptable act of hate, Hertel said. Dearborn is a beloved, multicultural city with tens of thousands of people who are cherished friends, family members, and neighbors.

A pro-Muslim and pro-Palestinian supporter holds a sign reading Defeat Trumps Fascist Movement during a counterprotest in Dearborn on Nov. 18, 2025. Fuad Shalhout -- MLive.com

A Dearborn police officer told MLive there were about seven police cars stationed nearby to help keep the situation calm.

At the same time this was happening, Michigan gubernatorial candidate Anthony Hudson, who had previously organized a separate protest without affiliation to Lang, walked with supporters along the sidewalk.

Hudsons and Langs demonstrations were unrelated but appeared in the city on the same afternoon, drawing a mix of residents, activists, and counter-protesters on both sides of Michigan Avenue.

Hudson, a truck driver from Grand Blanc Township, had initially planned a protest to take place in Dearborn, dubbing it an American Crusade against Muslim infiltration and Sharia Law, according to a news release from the Michigan chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations.

Yet after visiting three mosques in the area, Hudson declared that there are many false and misleading narratives about Dearborn being spread and that all he found from Muslims in Dearborn was hospitality. He further stated that he was opposed to outsiders coming to Dearborn with plans to burn the Quran.

As a result, Lang spray-painted the word cuck on what appeared to be Hudsons campaign bus in Dearborn, accusing the Republican candidate of selling out for visiting mosques and expressing sympathy toward Muslims.

Hudson later denied the bus belonged to him.

Michigan gubernatorial candidate Anthony Hudson walks with supporters during a protest on Michigan Avenue in Dearborn on Nov. 18, 2025. Fuad Shalhout -- MLive.com

One Hudson supporter, Kelly Elias, said she drove several hours from Northern Michigan because she wanted to see the situation firsthand.

I just wanted to come and see what the mainstream media (is reporting)  if theyre lying to us. Im Arabic too. Im from the God of love. I dont want to hurt anybody. If were in danger or if theres any problem, I want to know. But if not, lets be peaceful with each other and solve this problem. We need to work together and be just. Love each other. We dont need any problems. Anybody with hate.

Elias described herself as culturally mixed.

Im Lebanese, Im Syrian, Italian, she said. Im a mix.

She said she has long viewed Dearborn positively.

Ive always thought it was a wonderful area. Ive had friends here. I worked in Detroit. I lived in Detroit, Elias said.

On the other side of the street, Muslim and pro-Palestinian counter-protesters rallied in response to Langs actions and the broader anti-Islam messaging.

Dearborn resident Karrar Haidar explained why he attended the protest.

To show the American people that we are a religion of peace and we can coexist as the Abrahamic religions have coexisted in previous times, Haidar said. Some people are a little bit more extreme in their ideology, but were here to show them that we also have a voice and this is our country, too.

Everybody comes from some sort of immigration, and were all happy to be here. We all pay our taxes, we go to work and try to provide for our family.

Haidar also addressed claims that Dearborn is governed by Sharia law.

If they really do believe Sharia is the jurisdiction here in Dearborn, when you walk in, you see a monument in regards of Maryam and Prophet Jesus, he said.

He said protesters coming to Dearborn misunderstand the community.

I think they lost their core beliefs with Christianity, Haidar said. I feel like theres a form of Christianity that exists in this country that is more toward spreading hate. Because if you go towards Ford Road, youll see a mosque and two churches side by side, standing strong in solidarity. So, I dont know what their ideology is. I think its more of a political extremist view rather than a religious one.

Muslim demonstrators pray outside Dearborn City Hall during protests on Nov. 18, 2025. Fuad Shalhout -- MLive.com

As both sides continued chanting and walking toward City Hall, police kept a perimeter on the sidewalks and along Michigan Avenue, intervening briefly when tensions escalated over Langs attempted Quran burning.

One person was seen arrested at the Dearborn City Hall. No injuries were immediately reported.
OTTAWA COUNTY, MI - A power plant on the Lake Michigan shoreline will continue burning coal through the winter months as the Trump administration triples down on prolonging its lifespan past its intended retirement date.

Federal officials used emergency powers to issue the third successive order requiring the 63-year-old J.H. Campbell plant in Ottawa County remain open Tuesday evening, Nov. 18, signaling they have no intention to allow utility Consumers Energy let it go cold and dark as planned.

The order lasts 90 days, the maximum time allowable under the law, running through Feb. 17.

The repeated intervention from Washington is unprecedented, attracting criticism from Michigan regulators, consumer watchdogs and environmental groups, as well as ongoing legal challenges.

Opponents claim keeping the plant on life support will only burden utility ratepayers across the Midwest with millions in unnecessary costs, while propping up a polluting means of producing power in decline nationally.

Consumers has disclosed it lost some $615,000 a day running the plant over the summer. It ran up $80 million in net costs in just over four months, after subtracting revenue from the plant. The feds first intervened to prevent its retirement in late May, days before its retirement date, and extended operations with another order in August.

The utility plans to charge those costs to utility customers in 11 states, following a plan approved by federal regulators. It plans to file with regulators later this year to recover net costs from the first 90-day order, according to Consumers spokesperson Brian Wheeler.

President Donald Trumps Energy Secretary Chris Wright, who signed the orders, maintains keeping the plant online is critical to avoiding blackouts as aging coal plants shut down and new demand from projects like massive artificial intelligence data centers and new manufacturing strain the grid.

An energy emergency exists in portions of the Midwest, he maintains, mirroring Trumps declaration of a similar crisis nationwide. Advocates dispute that contention.

In his Tuesday order, Wright cites grid assessments warning of elevated risk of energy shortfalls as older power plants shut down in the region. While summertime currently presents the greatest risk, grid operators have acknowledged the reliability concerns are shifting year-round. This shift is driven by more frequent extreme weather and higher dependence on intermittent renewable sources like wind and solar, according to the order.

Large amounts of existing generation capacity are projected to be retired each year while, at the same time, the demand for electricity is projected to increase at an accelerating pace, Wright wrote in the order.

Besides keeping Campbell open, the Trump administration has taken a slew of actions to support coal. They include offering $625 million to upgrade coal power plants, rolling back pollution restrictions and opening millions of acres of federal land for coal mining.

But its unclear if Trump can revitalize the coal industry. Once producing nearly half of the nations electricity, coal now accounts for roughly 16% as it struggles to compete with cheaper and cleaner natural gas and renewable sources. The U.S. is not building new coal plants.

To keep Campbell running, Wright is relying on federal law most commonly evoked for short periods during natural disasters like hurricanes, at the request of regional grid operators or utilities.

In this case, Michigan regulators and the Midcontinent Independent System Operator, MISO, which acts as the air traffic controller for the broader Midwestern grid, signed off on the plant retirement and did not request the federal intervention.

The decision to take Campbell offline came as part of a 2022 plan Consumers projected would save ratepayers $600 million, while allowing the utility to end burning coal for good, cutting pollution and eliminating a major source of carbon emissions.

Campbell is its last coal plant, and Consumers planned to replace its capacity with a natural gas-burning plant and other sources.

State regulators with the Michigan Public Service Commission have said there is no energy emergency in Michigan or the broader region, and the federal orders only add more costs for power customers.

Consumers executives told investors in October they expect the Department of Energys orders to continue for the long-term, and the utility is prepared to comply.

The plant generated an average of approximately 509,000 megawatt-hours per month from June to September, according to Wrights order.

But environmental groups have said Campbell was redundant even during scorching days over the summer, when demand tends to peak.

They cite U.S. Environmental Protection Agency emissions data showing one of the plants three units didnt produce power on a majority of days over a large period of the summer, with others offline roughly a third of the time.

They say this is evidence the plant is unreliable and should be shut down as Consumers planned. Advocates also point to health risks from plant emissions, as coal is considered the dirtiest means of generating power.

Some Republicans in Michigan, including local leaders in Ottawa County, have celebrated the extension of Campbells operations. Meanwhile, some 37 Democratic state representatives signed on to a House resolution introduced Nov. 13 to demand Wright stop extending the coal plant orders.
Briarwood Mall and Ann Arbor are in a legal dispute over property taxes. MLive file photo. Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

ANN ARBOR, MI  The city of Ann Arbor and Briarwood Mall are in an ongoing legal dispute and at stake are millions of dollars in property taxes the mall argues it shouldnt be paying.

With the mall and the city at odds over property tax assessments, the case has been playing out in the Michigan Tax Tribunal since April 2021 with a side trip to the Michigan Court of Appeals.

Now its headed to trial, with the tax tribunal in Lansing scheduled to hear potentially several days of testimony from attorneys and expert witnesses in the case from June 22 to July 2, 2026.

Gearing up for the legal battle ahead, City Council voted unanimously Monday night, Nov. 17, to increase the citys legal services contract with the Hallahan and Associates law firm to $140,000  a $90,000 increase  to assist the city in the case of Mall at Briarwood LLC vs. City of Ann Arbor.

The malls attorney, Eva Cantarella, argued in the original petition to the tax tribunal the city had markedly over-valued two properties  a core mall parcel at 800 Briarwood Circle and the former Macaroni Grill parcel at 3010 S. State St.

Indianapolis-based mall owner Simon Property Group is behind the LLC that owns them.

The Action Time bungee ride at Ann Arbor's Briarwood Mall on Jan. 13, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

The true cash value of the core mall parcel should be $5.1 million and the vacant grill parcel should be $703,000, but the city had them valued at $92.8 million and $2.4 million, the malls petition stated. Consequently, the assessed and taxable values were significantly higher than the mall thought they should be.

Senior Assistant Senior City Attorney John Reiser said the dispute over the grill parcel has been settled, but the city and the mall still dont agree on the value of the core parcel. The mall had an appraisal putting it at about $62 million, while the city now believes its worth about $87 million based on an appraisal  about a $25 million difference.

We certainly think that the $87 million figure that we have valued it at represents the true cash value, Reiser said.

John Reiser, senior assistant city attorney, combs through paperwork at the Ann Arbor City Council meeting Nov. 17, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

The mall is effectively appealing the assessment for 2021 and all subsequent years, and the property tax revenue in dispute just for 2021 amounts to about $824,600, Reiser said.

Counting the four years since and soon to be a fifth, it adds up to millions, he said, noting thats tax revenue that has been collected for Ann Arbor schools, the city, the county and other entities like Washtenaw Community College and the Ann Arbor District Library that would have to be paid back if the city lost the case.

Briarwood Mall in Ann Arbor on March 23, 2023. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

The city receives about 45 property tax appeals each year from property owners challenging the citys assessed and taxable values of their properties, Reiser said. Almost all are settled prior to litigation in the Michigan Tax Tribunal, but in rare instances such as this the parties cant reach agreement, he said.

Part of the dispute, Reiser said, is whether Briarwood should be considered a class-B mall, as the city contends, or a class-C mall thats not doing as well, as Briarwood contends.

Like all malls across the country, the 1970s-era mall has been challenged since at least 2009 when there was a major real estate market correction, and more recently due to the COVID-19 downturn, the malls petition stated.

Retail never recovered and continues to struggle, as more and more people are doing their shopping online, it stated. The impact on older shopping malls in need of renovation has been particularly devastating, as evidenced by the fact that owners of such malls have been unable to sell their malls at hardly any price.

Manga Spot at Ann Arbor's Briarwood Mall on Jan. 13, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

A mixed-use redevelopment with new apartments and commercial space is underway on the former Sears part of the mall property, but thats unrelated to the dispute, Reiser said.

What were talking about is Briarwood Mall proper and some of the parking, he said, adding mall anchors Von Maur, Macys and JCPenney are not part of the dispute.

Those are separate parcels, he said.

The Michigan Department of Treasury is a co-respondent with the city in the case.

The matter went to the Michigan Court of Appeals as the mall contended some information such as tenant leases and sales were trade secrets that shouldnt be publicly disclosed.

The mall has never opposed providing the information for discovery or trying to settle, but if the case is going to trial, that information doesnt need to be public, Cantarella said, and the Court of Appeals ruled in the malls favor on that.

Cantarella is confident the mall also has a strong case against the citys assessment.

Obviously, we had the property appraised and the appraisal came in way under what the city thinks the property is worth, she said. And we feel very strongly about the petition and that we have a good appraiser and a good appraisal.

Ann Arbor's Briarwood Mall on Jan. 13, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

The Briarwood Mall property could become more valuable in the near future as a proposed city land-use plan awaiting City Council approval calls for establishing new zoning for the mall, allowing higher-density, downtown-style development.

Briarwood Mall specialty shops have something for everyone, including hippies at heart

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
Officials from the Washtenaw County Prosecutors Office said claims from Danbury Park Manor in Superior Township has a formal partnership with the office and local police are categorically false.

SUPERIOR TWP, MI - Letters from an apartment complex claiming it has partnered with local law enforcement for its eviction proceedings have sparked an investigation, officials said Tuesday.

Officials from the Washtenaw County Prosecutors Office said claims from Danbury Park Manor in Superior Township that it has a formal partnership with the office and local police are categorically false.

The landlords at Danbury Park do not have any partnership  formal or otherwise  with our office or with law enforcement generally, the prosecutors office said in a message shared to social media Tuesday morning. Nor is the Washtenaw Sheriff planning police escorts for landlord inspections.

Management at Danbury Park reportedly sent letters to tenants claiming it had formally partnered with the District Attorneys Office and local police to assist with inspections and other eviction proceedings.

There is not an agency called the district attorney at the county level, officials said. The local equivalent would be the Washtenaw County Prosecutors Office.

Danbury Park Manor, 9412 MacArthur Blvd. in Superior Township, has 146 units eligible for rent assistance through the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), according to departments website. There are 151 units in the complex in total.

The management company sent letters to tenants prompting them to ensure they had completed their annual recertification to maintain HUD eligibility, according to copies of the letters shared by the prosecutors office.

The letter, dated Nov. 7, told the recipient that their eligibility certification was overdue or close to due.

We have formally partnered with the District Attorneys office to address non-compliance, including failure to certify and failure to pay rent, the letter reads. If you do not act promptly, we will proceed with eviction filings and notify the DA accordingly.

A second letter dated Nov. 12 said it served as formal notice that proof of the tenants non-compliance had been forwarded to the District Attorney in preparation for your physical eviction. It also alleged staff would be escorted by police for move-out inspections during eviction proceedings.

The prosecutors and sheriffs office have launched an investigation, the prosecutors office said on social media. The prosecutors office noted that making false claims in a commercial context may break both civil and criminal laws. Officials also warned against misrepresenting a partnership with law enforcement.

It will get back to us, the office said.

A manager at Danbury Park Manor declined to comment when reached by phone Tuesday afternoon.

Washtenaw County Sheriff Alyshia Dyer said the office is handling a criminal investigation against the management company in coordination with the prosecutors office and township officials.

It is important to know that no sheriffs office personnel are going to be used for police escorts in any way to intimidate residents, Dyer told MLive/The Ann Arbor News. We protect and serve. We are not hired guns for the owners of this complex.

While anyone can request police presence, there is no formal partnership between the police and apartment complex to have ongoing presence during evictions, Dyer confirmed.

We want the residents in our community to know that we care about their well-being, Dyer said. We are there for public safety, not to be used as pawn in civil tenant matters.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
Alpha House East, a temporary shelter for families facing homelessness, has opened on the Trinity Health Ann Arbor hospital campus. Provided by Trinity Health

SUPERIOR TWP., MI  A new temporary shelter for families facing homelessness has opened in a renovated former nursing home on the Trinity Health Ann Arbor campus, located just outside Ypsilanti.

Alpha House East, which opened in partnership with Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House, features 30 individual living units with private bathrooms and capacity for up to four beds per unit, hospital and shelter officials announced.

Trinity Health has agreed to lease the space to Alpha House for $1 per year. The health system will retain ownership of the building.

At a time when our most vulnerable and marginalized neighbors are having all of their safety nets removed and the numbers of families experiencing homelessness are steadily rising, and fast, to have an opportunity like this is nothing short of a miracle, Shonagh Taruza, Alpha Houses executive director, said in a statement.

The Towsley Health Building, 5361 McAuley Drive, was previously occupied by the Huron Woods assisted living facility before that facility closed in 2019 and relocated residents to Trinity Healths Glacier Hills senior living community.

Dave Raymond, who helped establish House N2 Home, a nonprofit organization based in the building, told The Ann Arbor News/MLive in June they were happy to vacate the third floor and consolidate on two lower floors to make room for the new shelter.

Renovations began in June to increase Washtenaw Countys capacity to temporarily house families, keeping them out of homelessness and giving them access to resources.

Hospital president Alonzo Lewis expressed gratitude to Alpha House, the county and the state for supporting the shelter project.

When governments, civic organizations, and individuals work together for the common good, we can make meaningful progress on really important and challenging issues, Lewis said in a statement.

The hospital identified housing insecurity as a top priority in its 2024 Community Health Needs Assessment.

The location was selected for its proximity to major employers, educational institutions, and public transportation, according to the release.

Renovations, including upgrades to plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling, roofing and elevators, are estimated at $2 million.

The project received $1.7 million in public funding, including a $1 million Legislative Enhancement Grant secured by Sen. Jeff Irwin in the states fiscal year 2025 budget and a $700,000 grant from the Washtenaw County Board of Commissioners.

County board chair Katie Scott, D-Ann Arbor, said the countys investment underscores the belief that no family should face homelessness alone.

The hospital and Interfaith Hospitality Network at Alpha House continue to seek additional funding for infrastructure costs and ongoing operations. Individuals and organizations interested in supporting the project can contact the Trinity Health Southeast Michigan Office of Philanthropy at 734-712-4040, ext. 4040.

Generative AI was used to draft this story based on information provided by the Trinity Health. It was reviewed and edited by MLive.
DUSSELDORF, Germany, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- A prominent medical device exhibition kicked off on Monday in Dusseldorf, Germany, with more than 1300 Chinese companies attending the event.

The Medica 2025 is one of the largest and most influential trade fairs of medical devices. Expecting around 80,000 visitors from over 160 countries and regions, this year's event focused on medical technology and devices, digital health, lab and diagnostics, physio technology, and disposables.

Among the participants across the world, the number of Chinese enterprises was the largest from a non-European country.

"The number of Chinese exhibitors is growing and the quality of their products has improved," noted Xia Tian, deputy director of the International Cooperation Division of China Association for Medical Devices Industry.

As a veteran participant in the event, Xia told Xinhua that Chinese companies are gaining global recognition, with their products becoming more technologically sophisticated and expanding variety over the years.

Chinese exhibitors, both old faces and newcomers, can be found in almost every exhibition hall. This year, Chongqing Xishan Science & Technology Co., Ltd, occupied an exhibition area ten times larger than its debut last year. "We aim to provide good-quality products and services to a larger number of clients across the world," said He Qingyu, the marketing director of the company.

Liu Ping, general manager of Zhejiang Tiansong Medical Instrument Co., Ltd., recalled his experience at the medical exhibition over the past 20 years, saying that he is convinced that China's medical device industry is approaching the top-notch group in the world. Some companies have even become world leaders, he added.

According to the organizer, some 70 countries and regions took part in Medica 2025, which will run through Nov. 20.
Commentary

By Sylvain Charlebois

Countless surveys have told us that Canadians want to buy Canadian. They say they want to support local farmers and processors, keep dollars at home and protect jobs. But when standing in front of the grocery shelf, good intentions often give way to convenience and price.

That contradiction, however, seems to be fading. And geopolitics has a lot to do with it.

According to the latest NIQ (formerly NielsenIQ) retail data, sales of Made in Canada food products are up more than 10 per cent year-over-year as of September 2025, while U.S.-made products are down nearly nine per cent. This trend has persisted for more than six months. In the world of consumer data, thats not a blipits a shift. Canadians arent just saying they want to buy Canadian; theyre actually doing it.

Turn on the television any night and theres one recurring face: Donald Trump. Canadians, whether they follow U.S. politics closely or not, are constantly reminded of his message of America First.

And consciously or not, theyre responding. Every fiery clip about tariffs, immigration or foreign competition reinforces the sense that Canada needs to rely on itself. Buying Canadian food has become a quiet, patriotic act and a statement of self-reliance in an uncertain world. When cross-border relations feel tense, the grocery store becomes a symbolic space of control. Each jar of Canadian jam, each bag of local flour, feels like a vote for stability and identity.

The Buy Canadian idea isnt new. But for years, it mainly lived in our rhetoric. The North American market blurred origins, and few shoppers bothered to read the fine print. Since early 2025, though, both Made in Canada and Product of Canada categorieswhich differ in how much of the ingredients and processing are domestichave shown consistent growth, while U.S. imports have posted negative sales for seven straight months.

In consumer economics, half a year of steady behaviour signals more than a mood swing; its habit formation. Canadians are showing signs of permanently incorporating origin awareness into their grocery choices.

This new grocery patriotism, however, also raises a difficult question: at what cost? When consumers focus narrowly on national origin, market competition can narrow too. If buying Canadian becomes more about sentiment than value, we risk paying more, sometimes for products that arent necessarily better or more sustainable. Its worth asking whether this wave of food nationalism, however well-intentioned, has contributed to higher prices. The more insulated our food market becomes, the greater the risk of inefficiency and complacency.

Canadas agri-food sector is remarkably diverse and resilient, but we cant grow or process everything efficiently. Pretending otherwise is economically naive. Self-reliance must not become self-restriction. If this patriotic shift is to benefit Canadians, it needs to be guided by our comparative advantages, not emotional reflexes.

Our grain, seafood, livestock and pulse sectors are world-class. Our innovation in food safety, traceability and clean processing is globally admired. Thats where national energy should go: doubling down on what we do best, not trying to replace what others already do well.

Instead of equating Canadian with expensive, our food economy should aim to make Canadian synonymous with quality, efficiency and innovation. Thats the formula that will keep domestic production competitive while allowing consumers real choice at the shelf.

This is not a call to abandon local pride. In fact, it is far from it. A strong domestic food base is vital for resilience. But the challenge for Canada is to balance patriotic consumption with global pragmatism. We should buy Canadian when it makes sense, trade when it benefits us and stay open to the world.

Canadians are driving the surge in Made in Canada sales less as a reflection of emotion than as a clear response to uncertainty. The world is volatile. Supply chains are political. And consumers, consciously or not, are adapting. But if we let fear rather than strategy shape our choices, we risk turning a healthy preference into a costly habit.

After years of saying they wanted to buy Canadian, Canadians finally are. The question now is whether we can channel that patriotism into productive competitiveness, not protectionism.

Dr. Sylvain Charlebois is a Canadian professor and researcher in food distribution and policy. He is senior director of the Agri-Food Analytics Lab at Dalhousie University.
The U.S. House voted overwhelmingly Tuesday, Nov. 18 to pass a bill to force the Justice Department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.This photo of Epstein was provided by the New York State Sex Offender Registry from March 28, 2017. (New York State Sex Offender Registry via AP, File) AP

By STEPHEN GROVES Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP)  The House voted overwhelmingly in favor of a bill Tuesday to force the Justice Department to publicly release its files on the convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a remarkable display of approval for an effort that had struggled for months to overcome opposition from President Donald Trump and Republican leadership.

When a small bipartisan group of House lawmakers introduced a petition in July to maneuver around House Speaker Mike Johnsons control of which bills reach the House floor, it appeared a longshot effort  especially as Trump urged his supporters to dismiss the matter as a hoax.

But both Trump and Johnson failed in their efforts to prevent the vote. Now the president has bowed to the growing momentum behind the bill and even said he will sign it if it also passes the Senate. Moments after the House vote, Senate Majority Leader John Thune said his chamber will act swiftly on the bill.

The bill passed 427-1, with the only no vote coming from Rep. Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who is a fervent supporter of Trump. He also chairs a subcommittee that initiated a subpoena on the Justice Department for the Epstein files.

Tuesdays vote further showed the pressure mounting on lawmakers and the Trump administration to meet long-held demands that the Justice Department release its case files on Epstein, a well-connected financier who killed himself in a Manhattan jail while awaiting trial in 2019 on charges he sexually abused and trafficked underage girls.

These women have fought the most horrific fight that no woman should have to fight. And they did it by banding together and never giving up, said Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene as she stood with some of the abuse survivors outside the Capitol Tuesday morning.

Thats what we did by fighting so hard against the most powerful people in the world, even the president of the United States, in order to make this vote happen today, added Greene, a Georgia Republican and longtime Trump loyalist.

A separate investigation conducted by the House Oversight Committee has released thousands of pages of emails and other documents from Epsteins estate, showing his connections to global leaders, Wall Street powerbrokers, influential political figures and Trump himself. In the United Kingdom, King Charles III stripped his disgraced brother Prince Andrew of his remaining titles and evicted him from his royal residence after pressure to act over his relationship with Epstein.

Pushing for more accountability, the survivors of Epsteins abuse cast the current effort in Congress as necessary to reveal the full scope of Epsteins crimes after years of government failure under multiple presidential administrations. The bill forces the release within 30 days of all files and communications related to Epstein, as well as any information about the investigation into his death in federal prison.

Trumps reversal on the Epstein files

Trump has said he cut ties with Epstein years ago, but tried for months to move past the demands for disclosure. On Monday, he told reporters that Epstein was connected to more Democrats and that he didnt want the Epstein files to detract from the great success of the Republican Party.

Still, many in the Republican base have continued to demand the release of the files. Adding to that pressure, survivors of Epsteins abuse rallied outside the Capitol Tuesday morning. Bundled in jackets against the November chill and holding photos of themselves as teenagers, they recounted their stories of abuse.

We are exhausted from surviving the trauma and then surviving the political conflicts that surround it, said Jena-Lisa Jones, one of the survivors.

She added that she had voted for Trump, but had a message for the president: I beg you Donald Trump, please stop making this political.

The group of women also met with Johnson and rallied outside the Capitol in September, but have had to wait months for the vote.

Thats because Johnson kept the House closed for legislative business for nearly two months and also refused to swear-in Democratic Rep. Adelita Grijalva of Arizona during the government shutdown. After winning a special election on Sept. 23, Grijalva had pledged to provide the crucial 218th vote to the petition for the Epstein files bill. But only after she was sworn into office last week could she sign her name to the discharge petition to give it majority support in the 435-member House.

It quickly became obvious the bill would pass, and both Johnson and Trump began to fold. Trump on Sunday said Republicans should vote for the bill.

Yet Greene told reporters that Trumps decision to fight the bill had betrayed his Make America Great Again political movement. Its one of the reasons behind her prominent split with the president.

Watching this turn into a fight has ripped MAGA apart, she said.

How Johnson is handling the bill

Rather than waiting until next week for the discharge position to officially take effect, Johnson is moving to hold the vote under a procedure that requires a two-thirds majority.

But Johnson also spent a morning news conference listing off problems that he sees with the legislation. He argued that the bill could have unintended consequences by disclosing parts of federal investigations that are usually kept private, including information on victims.

This is a raw and obvious political exercise, Johnson said.

Still, he planned to vote for the bill. None of us want to go on record and in any way be accused of not being for maximum transparency, he added.

Meanwhile, House Democrats celebrated the vote as a rare win for the minority.

Its a complete and total surrender, because as Democrats we made clear from the very beginning, the survivors and the American people deserve full and complete transparency as it relates to the lives that were ruined by Jeffrey Epstein, said House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries.

Johnson also said he wants to see the Senate amend the bill to protect the information of victims and whistleblowers.

But the bipartisan pair who sponsored the bill, Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., and Ro Khanna, D-Calif., warned senators against doing anything that would muck it up and said they would face the same public uproar that forced both Trump and Johnson to back down.

Weve needlessly dragged this out for four months, Massie said, adding that those raising problems with the bill are afraid that people will be embarrassed. Well, thats the whole point here.

Associated Press writers Kevin Freking, Joey Cappelletti and Matt Brown contributed to this report.
The Jungle House marijuana dispensary at 338 S. Ashley St. in Ann Arbor on Aug. 15, 2025. The city is taking a closer look at its marijuana industry regulations. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

ANN ARBOR, MI  Marijuana dispensaries are no longer required to be 1,000 feet away from schools in Ann Arbor.

City Council voted unanimously Monday night, Nov. 17, to eliminate the 1,000-foot buffer requirement in the city code, determining it unnecessarily hindered marijuana businesses.

Rather than have no minimum buffer requirement going forward, Council Member Erica Briggs, D-5th Ward, won support for an amendment at the first reading of the ordinance in October to say dispensaries must be at least 100 feet from schools.

Theres still some community expectation or preference that marijuana businesses wont set up shop immediately next door to a school, and a 100-foot buffer ensures that, Briggs said.

The law applies for pre-existing public schools or private schools, but excluding dance or art schools.

The Jungle House marijuana dispensary at 338 S. Ashley St. in Ann Arbor on Aug. 15, 2025. The city is taking a closer look at its marijuana industry regulations. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Any new marijuana business in the city still will have to go through the citys Planning Commission for approval of a special exception use permit, and proximity to schools still will be a factor taken into consideration as the commission makes case-by-case decisions on approving dispensaries, officials said.

A distance of more than 100 feet might be warranted in some cases and the commission can review for additional distance, Briggs suggested.

Each proposed dispensary will be reviewed for compatibility with the surrounding context, said Council Member Lisa Disch, D-1st Ward. There also are security requirements and limits on operating hours, she said.

Councils decision to reduce the 1,000-foot minimum buffer to 100 feet citywide comes after the council made a temporary exception in September to allow dispensaries near schools in two areas. That includes within 250 feet of the Doughty Montessori School at 416 S. Ashley St. and within 750 feet of the Progress Park School at 3980 Research Park Drive.

That was in part to accommodate a new dispensary called Kings High, which ran into obstacles with the 1,000-foot distance requirement while trying to open in the former JARS Cannabis location at 450 S. Main St. near the Doughty Montessori School.

The former JARS Cannabis marijuana dispensary at 450 S. Main St. in Ann Arbor where a new dispensary called Kings High is fighting through regulatory barriers to open on Aug. 15, 2025. The city is taking a closer look at its marijuana industry regulations. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

It also allowed for the continuation of the Jungle House dispensary at 338 S. Ashley St. and the Crave Cannabis dispensary at 3860 Research Park Drive.

The state recently applied a more strict interpretation of K-12 school than the city previously applied, officials said, explaining why some locations came under scrutiny and why the city is exercising its discretion to relax the rules locally.

Under state law, liquor stores also are required to be 500 feet away from K-12 schools unless a commission decides to wave that, so there is a standard separation thats accepted for other types of businesses, Briggs said, making the case for at least having a 100-foot buffer between dispensaries and schools.

Council Member Erica Briggs, D-5th Ward, left, speaks as Council Member Dharma Akmon, D-4th Ward, listens at the Ann Arbor City Council meeting Nov. 17, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Council Member Dharma Akmon, D-4th Ward, previously suggested it would be reasonable to have the buffer for dispensaries kind of echo what we do for liquor establishments. Other communities with buffers less than 1,000 feet went to 500 feet, she said, saying 100 feet still seems super close.

Briggs said the reason she didnt propose 500 feet is because some of the existing dispensaries for which the city is making exceptions wouldnt meet that requirement.

Former Council Member Jeff Hayner was the only member of the public to raise any objections during a public hearing Monday night. Removing the 1,000-foot school buffer was a little odd, he said, saying he likes having reasonable limits and theres a reason the buffer was there.

Former Council Member Jeff Hayner addresses the Ann Arbor City Council during a public hearing Nov. 17, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Council Member Jenn Cornell, D-5th Ward, said marijuana businesses still are heavily regulated by the state, but this is one area where the city has some discretion.

She received an email from someone concerned if the buffer was reduced, kids could walk into dispensaries, but anybody whos been in a dispensary knows thats not possible, Cornell said.

She and other council members noted the city benefits from the marijuana industry to the tune of $1.5 million in annual tax revenue the city uses in a variety of ways, including funding the Rising Hope for Housing program and eviction prevention.

While its easy, I think, to point out that not everybody loves a marijuana facility, we are all different, Cornell said. I think we all love the extra tax dollars that it brings in.

The Ann Arbor City Council meeting Nov. 17, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

The city still has a requirement that dispensaries must be spaced at least 600 feet apart from one another to avoid clusters of them and the city caps the number permitted in the city at 28.

The citys Planning Commission has recommended council move to eliminate the cap.

City officials have acknowledged the current permitting structure, with a limited number of permits tied to specific permitted locations, doesnt give marijuana retailers a lot of flexibility to move to more desirable locations when one doesnt work out. There were 21 dispensaries in operation, two temporarily closed and five others closed as of August, city officials said.

Legislation pending in the Michigan Legislature would prohibit the states Cannabis Regulatory Agency from issuing a marijuana dispensary license if it would result in more than one for every 5,000 residents in a municipality. That would take effect Jan. 1 if approved and would limit the number in Ann Arbor to 24.

The marijuana industry definitely has been going through some transitions and the number of active open businesses has decreased, City Planning Manager Brett Lenart said.

Regardless of what taxation changes or regulatory changes might happen, if this is a business category the city thinks is important to support, making it easier for businesses is sort of where the Planning Commission is coming from, he said.

When we have a regulatory structure that sort of pigeon holes a retailer or a business at one location and maybe that doesnt turn out to be the right business, were adding some local barriers to that business or a different business thriving, Lenart said.

Senior Assistant City Attorney John Reiser noted a new 24% state wholesale tax for marijuana is being challenged in court ahead of it taking effect Jan. 1.

John Reiser, senior assistant city attorney, combs through paperwork at the Ann Arbor City Council meeting Nov. 17, 2025. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Mayor Pro Tem Travis Radina said councils policy committee is aware and watching the potential changes at the state level that may impact the marijuana industry in Ann Arbor.

Were also very aware of the potential financial impact that that might have on us, he said.

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Andrew Rogers poses with the original Barton organ at the Michigan Theater, 603 E. LIberty St. in Ann Arbor. He passed away last Thursday. Jacob Hamilton | MLive.com

ANN ARBOR, MI  Andrew Rogers filled the main room of the Michigan Theater with the powerful and playful tones of the Barton Theatre Pipe Organ for nearly two decades.

He was beloved not only for his music. Residents recall interacting with him after film screenings, and colleagues also noted his smile, kind personality and dad humor.

Rogers, 74, died Nov. 13 from a heart issue at his home in Fenton. A memorial concert for his life is planned for Dec. 4, with more details to come.

It is a huge loss, not only of his talent, but of his personality and soul, said Russ Collins, former executive director and chief executive officer at Marquee Arts.

Rogers was born July 3, 1951 in Detroit and musically inclined from a young age, according to his obituary. His family owned a stack of 78 rpm records and an RCA phonograph, and he would pick out and play the records at just 12 months old.

Rogers played the accordion when he was 7 and appeared on a TV talent show Stairway to the stars, his obituary says.

At 8, he heard his sister singing Ave Maria in church and told her that she was off key, his obituary states.

Rogers received his bachelors degree in psychology from Michigan State University but wanted to learn how to play the organ, said Henry Aldridge, professor emeritus of music at Eastern Michigan University and emeritus board member for Marquee Arts.

He took lessons with James Miller, a then-Orthodox priest and theater organist in Fenton. Miller left his pipe organ to Rogers after Miller died 18 to 19 years ago.

Aldridge, 82, hired Rogers onto the Michigan Theater team 18 years ago. He said Rogers taught himself how to play the organ for silent films and handled about 75% of the theaters gigs.

Related: Henry Aldridge honored for contributions to EMU and Michigan Theater

He noted Rogers and Nick Alderink, cinema program director at Marquee Arts, teamed up to put on the silent film series at the Michigan Theater.

Rogers tunes accompanying the silent films in particular blew me away, Collins, of Ann Arbor, said. He also knew how to distinguish his musical pieces between silent and sound films.

Andrew knew all about it, was a genius at putting those scores together, Collins, 69, said.

Aldridge, of Ann Arbor, said Rogers real strength was playing music for silent films and there are not too many people who can do that.

Rogers musical abilities took him around Michigan and the world.

Collins said Rogers was an amazingly talented and versatile organist, noting his remarkable skills on the organ. He remembers him playing a wide variety of songs during advanced film screenings at the Michigan Theater, and he always seemed to have a new song or take.

Rogers sometimes improvised and often wrote his own sheet music, Collins said, and he knew how to operate every piece of the organ.

His intrinsic musical talent, his ability to apply that to both the overture part of a regular film screening and then do a variety of silent films was amazing, Collins said.

The Barton Theatre pipe organ was installed in 1928 to create music and sounds for silent films.

For a little over 20 years, the instrument was consistently being played until 1952. After that, Gerald Hoag, Michigan Theaters manager at the time, protected the instrument until the late 1960s when volunteers started to repair the organ. Aldridge was one of those volunteers.

Read more: First installed in 1928, Michigan Theaters Barton pipe organ still making music

Rogers practiced his skills with his own Barton organ at home, Collins noted. He was born with the gene that attracted him to music and could play just about anything, Aldridge said.

Molly Rowan-Deckart, current executive director and chief executive officer at Marquee Arts, said theatergoers could tell Rogers musical passion from his craft mastery.

He really, at heart, was an educator about why these instruments should be preserved in their spaces, why they should be continually shared and played, Rowan-Deckart said.

She said Rogers was willing to chat and talk to people about the history and context of the organ, a dying art.

If he saw us in the theater, he would just stop what he was doing and play what we loved, which was always a treat, Rowan-Deckart said.

Rowan-Deckart said members of the Marquee Arts team were devastated and burst into tears when they received news last week of Rogers death.

Collins described Rogers as very, very sweet person and a kind and lovely soul.

Rogers often asked people how they were doing, and Collins said he never saw him frustrated or mad.

He had that effect across every personality that he ran into at the Michigan Theater, Collins said. Everybody said that, whether they were cranky people themselves or they were sweet.

Rowan-Deckart described Rogers as a very soft and gentle and kind human.

She noted he was very smiley and positive and he would often spend time with other staff members in the office, which isnt really typical of organists.

Rowan-Deckart crowned Rogers the king of dad jokes because deliveries were hilarious.

Aldridge and Rogers often discussed their love for classical music. The two musicians also sometimes grabbed a meal together, and Middle Eastern food was Rogers interest, Aldridge said.

Rowan-Deckart said the staff is working on a way to honor Rogers permanently.

She said a Canadian-based film crew is producing a documentary on theater organs and filmed Rogers at his last silent film concert a few weeks ago.

The documentary is set to release next year, she said, and the Michigan Theater will screen it.

Its going to be really nice for the community to be able to see Andy one last time, she said.

Rogers requested in his own last wishes, according to Rowan-Deckart, donations to be made to the Michigan Theater for the organ.

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ANN ARBOR, MI  Patients and families at C.S. Mott Childrens Hospital in Ann Arbor enjoyed an early holiday celebration Tuesday, as Santa Claus himself led a parade around the 12th floor.

The fifth annual Mott Thanksgiving Parade was a partnership between the hospital and the Parade Co., which produces Americas Thanksgiving Day Parade each year in Detroit. Parade sponsor Gardner White provided enough stuffed Teddy bears for every patient at the hospital.

Michigan Medicine sponsors a float each year as part of the annual parade down Detroits Woodward Avenue. Parade Co. President Tony Michaels said the Mott event was a highlight of his year.

This is the greatest day, for me, of the year, he said. This parade is really so heartfelt, so phenomenal.

Luanne Thomas Ewald, chief operating officer of C.S. Mott Childrens and Von Voigtlander Womens hospitals, said the parade, in its fifth year, serves as a kickoff for annual holiday events like the Mott Toy Store, which provides free gifts to patients.

We wanted to bring the magic of Woodward Avenue thats going to happen on Thanksgiving into the hospital this week, to have a parade through our inpatient units to bring some of the joy and the magic to our kids who are unfortunately in the hospital today, she said.

Parade leaders included staff from the hospitals Child & Family Life program; Detroit Tigers mascot Paws; the hospitals mascot Motty the Mott Block; officers from Ann Arbor Police Department and the universitys Department of Public Safety and Security; members of the Michigan Marching Band and Cheer Team; Barney, one of the hospitals Golden Retriever therapy dogs; and a troupe of clowns from the Parade Co.

The parade also included Santa Claus and Mrs. Claus, who regularly visit each December for Santa Days in Motts neonatal intensive care unit. Kris Kringle stopped by each room on the 12th floor, greeting patients of all ages, including newborn twins Beckham and Bentley OKeefe.

It is such a blessing for us to be able to come here and visit these kids that are possibly in one of the hardest times of their lives, Santa said. To be able to give back just a little bit to them and make their day and their time here a little brighter.

Donations are open until Dec. 12 for the annual Mott Toy Store, which allows patients families to pick out and wrap toys from a collection of donations in the hospitals Game Day Experience Room. People can visit the hospitals website to shop Motts Amazon wishlist, make a monetary contribution or start their own toy drive for delivery or in-person drop-off.
Some people opposed to a proposal for a computer data center in Saline Township brought protest signs to a board meeting, Wednesday, Sept. 10, 2025. Jen Eberbach/MLive

PITTSFIELD TWP., MI - The Pittsfield Board of Trustees is set to vote on a six-month moratorium on decisions around data centers in the township.

The moratorium would pause both applications for data centers and changes to the townships zoning ordinance while officials hammer out what future ordinances and policies should look like, according to resolution text shared in the agenda for the meeting scheduled for 2 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 20.

(Data centers) move fast, so this makes everybody feel a little better, township supervisor Trish Reilly said. Were taking a pause.

Although no applications for a center have been submitted to the township, residents have become increasingly anxious about them coming to neighboring communities, Reilly said. Large-scale data centers, which are used to power artificial intelligence and cloud computing, have been proposed in both Howell and Saline townships, sparking concerns among residents.

The meeting is a special session to decide whether the township should implement the moratorium. It could later be lifted with the passage of an ordinance or a new resolution.

The proposed resolution follows the cancellation of a public hearing originally scheduled to happen later that day at the townships standard planning commission meeting. That hearing would have given residents an opportunity to sound off on a draft of a potential ordinance regulating data centers of different sizes in the township.

Township officials had been considering a moratorium at that time but have since decided to put the resolution on the agenda, Reilly said. Another public hearing will be scheduled once the process begins again to make a formal change to township zoning ordinances.

We see whats happening around us, and the residents are concerned, Reilly said. So, lets just make sure nothing can happen in the meantime while we put something in place.

Read the full proposed resolution here. Watch the Board of Trustees meeting online.
Headshot of Sean Rositano, a Democratic legislative director in the Michigan House of Representatives. He announced Monday, Nov. 17, his campaign for a University of Michigan Board of Regents seat. Courtesy of Sean Rositano

ANN ARBOR, MI  Sean Rositano, a social worker and legislative director in the Michigan House of Representatives, hopes to give the University of Michigan back to the people.

The progressive Democrat Detroiter is looking to join the eight-member UM Board of Regents, the universitys governing board, he announced via Facebook on Monday, Nov. 17.

We need a social work mindset on the Board of Regents for listening to folks and hearing them out and trying to come to the best solution that is best for everybody at the university, Rositano, 32, said.

Rositano is the first non-incumbent Michigander to announce a regent campaign for 2026.

He eyes the seat occupied by either Regents Jordan Acker or Paul Brown, two Democrats eligible to run for re-election in 2026. He particularly criticized Acker, a personal injury lawyer in Southfield serving his first term, which expires in 2027.

Rositano accused Acker of capitulating to the Donald Trump administration, especially on health care and diversity, equity and inclusion programs, and appealing to wealthy out-of-state donors instead of spending time with the constituents that matter most.

Acker said in an email he is proud of his work to help lead the Democratic majority to expand the Go Blue Guarantee, a free tuition initiative, to include middle class Michiganders; reform the way the university handles sexual misconduct cases; help nearly half of employees form a union; and expand the minimum wage to make it higher than the rest of the state.

He said he is looking forward to hiring a new UM president and continuing the work of defending higher education from the Trump Administrations attacks in my second term as Regent.

Who is Rositano?

Rositano received his bachelors degree in broadcast and cinematic arts from Central Michigan University and a Master of Social Work from UM.

During his time at UM, Rositano said he saw the university was opposed to just listening to the UM Graduate Employees Organizations demands.

He was also a member of former UM President Santa Onos search advisory group for a new vice president of communications and served as a housing policy advisor for the UM Central Student Government.

He and his wife are expecting their first child in May.

What are Rositanos positions?

Rositanos policy platform includes restoring free speech, centralizing academic freedom to students and faculty, reinstituting DEI programs and strengthening ties to the Dearborn and Flint campuses.

He said UM has a major impact on the states ability to thrive. We should be held accountable for how we spend the money that the taxpayers send us, Rositano said.

The university should develop the workforce and try to recruit and retain students of all backgrounds to stay in the state for higher education, he said.

Amid the Trump administrations nationwide efforts to cut federal research funding in higher education, Rositano said he wants to work with faculty to figure out how to maintain research efforts.

He believes the universities needs facilities like the universitys planned $1.2 billion high performance computing facility" campus, but he wants more community involvement and transparency in decision-making processes. Were not forcing any sustainability measures into this.

Rositano, who is Jewish, supports recent UM student protests while calling out antisemitic and anti-Islamophobic rhetoric.

He said pro-Palestine protests on campus should be happening. I mean its a First Amendment right that we have this.

He said some conflate being Jewish with being pro-Israel, and he has seen these accusations of antisemitism be the reason for shutting down the DEI programs and campus protests.

Rositano condemns attacks on Ackers law firm and home. Acker is Jewish and has called the vandalism antisemitic.

But Rositano said Ackers previous rhetoric on equity and inclusion programs is really offensive and dangerous.

Rositano points to Ackers comments on Fox News last year.

Theyve used other things to center student feelings and not actual diversity, equity and inclusion, Acker said. And what has happened here is that you have a situation where Jews are not desired or Jews desire their feelings to be centered, just like every other group has seemingly over the last decade.

Rositano said he seeks to build a place where students can disagree while not calling out each others identities.

He called the war in Gaza a genocide, echoing the findings of some experts and scholars. It is an allegation Israel adamantly rejects.

Pro-Palestinian protesters have demanded the university divest from companies that support Israel. The university says any investment is far smaller than opponents contend and they will shield the endowment from political pressures.

As of Nov. 8, more than 69,000 Palestinians have died in the war, launched in response to an October 2023 Hamas attack on Israel, according to the Associated Press.

In the future, Rositano wants to see the university hire a president who is transparent and accountable to the people, he said.

I would like to see somebody who does uphold UM values and who isnt afraid to push back against regents, Rositano said. I just want to put people at the center of everything we do.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page.
U.S. Rep. Kristen McDonald Rivet and members of the Michigan delegation to the U.S. House of Representatives honored the victims of the Grand Blanc Township church shooting and fire this week.

The FBI has stated five people died, including the assailant previously identified as Thomas Jacob Sanford, 40, of Burton during the Sept. 28 incident at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints off McCandlish Road.

Nine other people were injured in the incident.

Today, and for many days to follow, we mourn for each of them, their families, every congregant of the Church, and all those impacted by this senseless act of violence, McDonald Rivet said during her comments on Tuesday, Nov. 18, on the House floor. This kind of violence, specifically in a place of worship where we go to pray and reflect in peace, is despicable, and no one should ever have to go through this.

The FBI said at the end of October that anti-religious beliefs was the motive behind the incident.

We also extend profound gratitude to the heroic first responders  the law enforcement officers who responded to the scene within seconds, the 9-1-1 dispatchers who coordinated an instantaneous response, the firefighters who got people to safety, and the local EMTs, nurses, and doctors who treated the injured," Rivet said. Their bravery and quick action saved lives.

A Grand Blanc Township police officer and Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer shot and killed Sanford in the churchs parking minutes after the incident began.

In the days following the incident, churches in the community and others held vigils to remember those who died and come together in processing whatd taken place.

As the community heals from a moment of this incredible darkness, they unify and find light under the motto, Grand Blanc, better together, Rivet said, with the sign displayed during her remarks as requested by residents.

Today, may the whole nation learn from their example, and may we always stand better together with Grand Blanc, she added. They remind us that it is our differences that make our country stronger and it is the way we love one another that will define us.

For them, may we all seek to bring peace, understanding, and love to this world, and let us never forget their loss.
Grand Rapids has approved the name Unity Park for a new park that's under construction on the city's southwest side. Pictured here is a photo at the park's groundbreaking ceremony in April 2024. Arthur H. Trickett-Wile | MLive.com

GRAND RAPIDS, MI  A new park on Grand Rapids southwest side officially has its title, after a previously proposed name was rejected due to resident opposition.

Unity Park will be the official name for the $2.3 million city park that is currently under construction at 680 Cesar E. Chavez Ave. SW, in Grand Rapids Roosevelt Park neighborhood. The Grand Rapids City Commission unanimously approved the name Tuesday, Nov. 18.

The name was chosen through a resident poll that had 415 respondents. Unity Park was the top vote-getter, receiving 232 votes, followed by the runner-up, Navarro Plaza, which received 183 votes.

Navarro Plaza was the original proposed name for the new park, but it was scrapped by the city this spring after residents expressed concern about the citys outreach and engagement efforts during the naming process.

Some residents said they felt they didnt have the chance to properly weigh in on the naming process. Others said they felt Unity Park  which was a close runner-up to Navarro Park in the citys first poll  was a better reflection of the neighborhoods multicultural makeup. Roosevelt Park is predominantly Hispanic but is growing more diverse, and some residents wanted a park name to reflect that.

The Navarro Plaza name was created to honor two prominent local entrepreneurs, Miguel and Isabella Navarro, who were pioneers in West Michigans Hispanic business community.

While commissioners expressed support for the increased community outreach in the second polling process, City Manager Mark Washington acknowledged the disappointment of the Navarro family over the rejection of the previous name.

Commissioners said they are committed to finding another way to honor the couples legacy.

Construction of the new park began this summer and is expected to be done by next summer when the park is expected to open.

Unity Park will include play areas and cafe-style seating along with flexible seating areas, a hammock grove, rentable shelter space and more. The park will also have a kiosk that features the cupola from the former St. Joseph the Worker Parish.
The Ottawa County Sheriff's Office responded to a home invasion Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in which a dog had been fatally wounded and the homeowner stabbed. (MLive file photo) John Tunison

OTTAWA COUNTY, MI  A 23-year-old man is in custody after being tracked by a drone and K-9 deputies, following a Tuesday afternoon home invasion.

The suspect is believed to have stabbed a 68-year-old male homeowner and the mans dog. The dog later died as a result of the injuries sustained, according to an incident report filed by Ottawa County Sheriffs Sgt. Jacob Mucha.

The homeowner suffered non life-threatening injuries and was treated at the scene, Mucha reported.

Deputies responded to the scene, in the 11800 block of New Holland Street in Olive Township, just after 1:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

By the time deputies arrived, the suspect had already fled the scene, Mucha said.

The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office drone team and K-9 units were then utilized to track the suspect, who was taken into custody a short time later.

There is no known relationship between the homeowner and the suspect, Mucha said. The suspect is currently lodged at the Ottawa County Jail. His identity is being withheld pending arraignment.

The Ottawa County Sheriffs Office animal control unit responded to the scene after learning the homeowners dog had been injured. The dog was transported for emergency veterinary care, but eventually succumbed to their injuries, Mucha said.

Nearby schools were contacted and a shelter in place was temporarily enacted while the search for the suspect was ongoing. That shelter in place was later lifted.

There are no known outstanding suspects and there is no further threat to the community, Mucha stated.

Investigators remained on scene early Tuesday evening to continue the investigation. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Ottawa County Sheriffs Office at 616-738-4000 or Silent Observer at 877-88-SILENT (745368) or mosotips.com.

Also responding to the scene was personnel from the Holland Department of Public Safety and Olive Township Fire Rescue.
The Grand Rapids City Commission has hired a search firm to help find a new city attorney. Isaac Ritchey | iritchey@mlive.com

GRAND RAPIDS, MI  Grand Rapids has tapped a search firm to help find the citys next top attorney.

Mosaic Public Partners, an executive search firm based in California, was selected to lead the national search. The city hopes to hire a new finalist by May 2026, said Michelle Eddie, the citys assistant human resources director.

The Grand Rapids City Commission unanimously approved a $32,500 contract with the firm on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

Deputy City Attorney Philip Strom is currently serving as interim attorney following the retirement of Anita Hitchcock, who stepped down this fall after serving as the city attorney since 2016.

The contract with Mosaic includes a one-year service guarantee. Eddie said Mosaic has provided similar city attorney search services for San Jose, Calif.; Gilbert, Ariz.; Tucson, Ariz.; Denton, Texas and Stockton, Calif.

Other search firms considered by the city included MGT Impact Solutions, LLC and Strategic Government Resources (SGR). City Manager Mark Washington said the costs for the other firms were all in a similar range.

Hitchcock, who worked for the city for over two decades, retired on Sept. 2. She was credited as an instrumental part of the citys ongoing police reform efforts, helping shift the Grand Rapids Police Department from a prosecutorial mindset to one focused on restorative justice, the city stated prior to her retirement.
"Fashion + Nature" opened in April 2022. It examines the relationship between the natural world and the fashion industry, inspiring and educating visitors to become better consumers. (Photo/William Pugliano) William Pugliano

GRAND RAPIDS, MI - The Grand Rapids Public Museum (GRPM) welcomes the return of its annual LEGO displays as it prepares to close Fashion + Nature after a three-and-a-half-year run.

Visitors are encouraged to take advantage of their final chance to see the GRPM original exhibit before it officially closes on Nov. 30.

The museum cares for a wardrobe of more than 10,000 garments and accessories, many of which were donated by Grand Rapids residents, said Andrea Melvin, collections curator at the GRPM. It was an honor and joy to partner with local designers and community members, whose stories and expertise broadened our understanding of fashion through a Grand Rapids lens.

With one leaving, another exhibit is set to open just in time for the holidays. The Grand Junction is where discovery meets creativity through massive LEGO displays, hands-on build tables and the beloved Herpolsheimers department store train.

The West Michigan LEGO Users group built the displays. Returning for another year is the historic Grand Rapids display, which features incredibly detailed recreations of local landmarks from the Meyer May House to McKay Tower.

Each year, the build evolves, incorporating new figures and scenes for guests to discover. Several miniature trolleys zip around the streets and cross the Grand River.

Although this exhibit is returning just as another is leaving, it wont take over Fashion + Nature. GRPM staff encourage guests to stay tuned for announcements regarding the exhibit that will take its place on the second floor.

Fashion + Nature, which first opened in April 2022, examines the relationship between the natural world and the fashion industry.

Designed and built internally by the GRPM staff with input from community partners, the long-running exhibit showcases scientific specimens and garments from the museums collections.

Visitors encounter three areas in Fashion + Nature: discovery, exploitation and sustainability. The exhibit demonstrates how the fashion industry has impacted the environment, peoples lives and the global economy.

If you want to see both exhibits, plan your visit soontheres just 12 days left before Fashion + Nature closes on Nov. 30.

Admission tickets, which range from $5-$14, can be purchased online in advance. Kent County children receive free admission every day, with reduced admission for adults.
An aerial view of 201 Watkins Road, where Clark Logic opened 252,000 square feet of industrial warehouse space in Battle Creek, Michigan in July 2025. The Portage-based company broke ground on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, on an addition that will double that facility in size, bringing another 252,000 square feet of industrial space to the I-94 corridor. Courtesy photo

BATTLE CREEK, MI  Since 2022, Clark Logic has constructed more than 2 million square feet of industrial space in Southwest Michigan.

On Wednesday, Nov. 19, the Portage-based company broke ground on a project that will add another 252,000 square feet of space along the I-94 corridor.

The project is an expansion of an existing facility, completed this summer at 201 Watkins Road, near the Fort Custer Industrial Park.

Once complete, it will double the new facility in size to 504,000 square feet, said Clark Logic Marketing Director Kristin Hagen-Keirns.

The new space is yet to be leased, but is expected to be available for occupancy in the third quarter of 2026, she said.

The addition will consist of 12 loading docks, with knockouts for 20 future docks.

The expansion is part of a partnership between Clark Logic and Great Lakes Capital, a private equity real estate firm from South Bend.

The joint venture between the two companies, known as Industrial Partners USA, has been responsible for leasing 1.38 million square feet of Class A industrial space along the I-94 corridor between Kalamazoo and Battle Creek since 2020.

RELATED: Kalamazoo County company breaks ground on $15M industrial facility near I-94

In addition to the project at 201 Watkins Road, IPUSA also built a 270,000 square-foot warehouse, now owned and operated by Zoetis, at 211 Watkins Road in 2021.

An aerial view of 201 and 211 Watkins Road, where Clark Logic has built 522,000 square feet of industrial warehouse space in Battle Creek, Michigan. The Portage-based company broke ground on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025, on an addition to 201 Watkins Road, which can be seen in the foreground. The addition will double that facility in size, bringing another 252,000 square feet of industrial space to the I-94 corridor. Courtesy photo

The first 252,000 square-foot space at 201 Watkins Road, which opened in July, is being leased by Ford Motor Co., Crains Grand Rapids reported.

This next phase represents our continued investment in the Battle Creek region and our commitment to growing high-quality industrial space that attracts and retains business, said Jamie Clark, president and owner of Clark Logic.

Were proud to continue this partnership between Clark Logic and Great Lakes Capital as we expand the regions economic potential, he said.

Beyond Fort Custer, IPUSA is also leading major development at Pavilion Commerce Park on East N Avenue, just south of I-94 off Sprinkle Road in Kalamazoo.

To date, 624,000 square feet have been completed and leased across two phases. Two additional buildings, totaling 808,000 square feet of space, are planned.

Our goal is to provide the move-in ready industrial developments that support Michigans manufacturing and logistics economy, said Jeff Smoke, managing director and principal at Great Lakes Capital. With the Fort Custer and Pavilion speculative warehouse developments, were positioning the region for long-term growth and investment.

Wolverine Building Group has been selected as the general contractor for the new build in Battle Creek and AR Engineering will provide engineering services.

Want more Kalamazoo-area news? Bookmark MLives local Kalamazoo news page.
KALAMAZOO, MI  A man who was arrested in Texas is facing charges including murder for a killing in Kalamazoo, police said.

Norris Deshane Baker, 35, was arraigned on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, on charges including open murder related to the November 2024 homicide of Paris Powe.

The charges stem from the fatal shooting of Powe around 10:25 p.m. Nov. 4, 2024, in the 400 block of Egleston Avenue. Another person was shot and injured, police said.

Baker fled the state following the homicide and was taken into custody on Dec. 20, 2024, in Harris County, Texas. He was on parole at the time of the incident, KDPS said.

Baker is also charged with felony firearm (five counts), assault with intent to murder, armed robbery (two counts) and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.

He was denied bond on Tuesday, KDPS said.

Baker is lodged with the Michigan Department of Corrections awaiting further court proceedings. A preliminary examination is scheduled for Dec. 3.

KDPS continues to investigate the killing. Detectives ask anyone with information to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 269-337-8139. Anonymous tips can also be submitted through the Kalamazoo Silent Observer tip line at 269-343-2100, via the P3Tips app, or online at www.KalamazooSilentObserver.com.

Bookmark MLives local Kalamazoo news page.
Deangelo Lonell Aubrey, 42, appeared for a virtual arraignment in Muskegon County District Court on Wednesday, Nov. 19, 2025. Aubrey was charged with two counts of open murder for the deaths of Shelenthia Willis and Sasha Spears for allegedly killing both woman on the same day. Bradley Massman | MLive.com

MUSKEGON, MI  A man accused of killing two women in the same day had threatened to kill one of them years prior and was sentenced to prison for the violent attack, court records show.

Deangelo Lonell Aubrey, 42, was arraigned Wednesday, Nov. 19, in Muskegon County District Court on two counts of open murder.

Aubrey is accused of killing Shelenthia Willis and Sasha Spears after the womens bodies were discovered Monday, Nov. 17, by Muskegon Heights police.

He had dated each woman at different times, police said.

Aubrey was paroled from a Michigan prison about eight months before the alleged killings, records show.

The prison sentence stems from an assault on May 26, 2020.

Aubrey and Willis were dating for about five years and had just broken up in 2020, Muskegon Heights police wrote in an affidavit for warrantless arrest obtained by MLive/Muskegon Chronicle.

Aubrey tracked Willis down at a local hotel and confronted her in the parking lot with a handgun. Aubrey pointed the handgun at Willis and told her not to move, or he would shoot and kill her, the affidavit states.

Willis ran into the lobby of the hotel and Aubrey chased her. Once in the lobby, Aubrey again pointed the handgun at Willis. Willis was stopped by a locked door, which allowed Aubrey to catch her.

Aubrey hit her in the head with the handgun at least 10 times, according to police. At some point during the assault, Willis fell to the floor and Aubrey kicked her in the mouth, causing some of her teeth to fall out, the affidavit states.

Aubrey pleaded no contest to assault with intent to do great bodily harm less than murder and felon in possession of a firearm.

He was sentenced to a minimum of four years in prison. Records show Aubrey was paroled on March 25 of this year.

Police arrested Aubrey on Tuesday, Nov. 18, after the bodies of Willis and Spears were found in different locations in Muskegon Heights.

Spears was found at a residence in the 2300 block of Hoyt Street. A relative found the injured woman and called 911. Police described her injuries as severe and said she died at the scene.

A few hours later, police took a call about a missing woman  Willis  and learned she may have been with Aubrey earlier in the day. Officers found Willis dead that night in a vehicle near Sixth Street and Delano Avenue.

A judge denied Aubrey bond during his arraignment Wednesday, and he will remain lodged in the Muskegon County Jail. His next court appearance is set for Wednesday, Dec. 3.
Pamela Pugh speaks during the 26th annual Ann Arbor African American Festival in downtown Ann Arbor in this MLive file image. Sydney Verlinde | MLive.com

SAGINAW, MI  Michigan education leader and State Senate candidate Pamela Pugh was the focus of $86,692.17 in tax liens filed by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) over multiple years, court documents stated.

In addition, previously unreported lawsuits filed against Pugh as well as a house foreclosure case paint a portrait of a political candidate with a history of financial challenges.

Most of those challenges overlap the former Flint public health administrators decade-long tenure as an elected official on the Michigan State Board of Education, where she currently serves as president.

Pugh said she is not hiding from her history of financial woes, instead embracing the experience as a quality that makes her fit to represent constituents struggling with money.

I am not running from hardship, Pugh said in a statement. Ive lived it. And Im not hiding. Im showing up with transparency and tenacity to fight for the very people whove lived through it too. We need leadership with real-world experience, and not privilege and pretense.

In a review of public documents available via Saginaw County courts and Register of Deeds records, MLive discovered a series of cases tied to Pugh, including the following:

The Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in 2016 filed a $70,762.26 tax lien against Pugh for three years of unpaid income taxes, from 2012-14, IRS records state.

In 2017, the IRS filed a $15,929.91 tax lien against Pugh for unpaid 2011 and 2015 income taxes, documents stated. No documents exist in the Register of Deeds indicating she resolved either the 2016 or 2017 tax liens, although Pugh said she is on schedule to resolve them by next year. Both the 2016 and 2017 tax liens resulted in IRS holds on Pughs home in Saginaw, court records stated.

Pugh resolved tax liens in three other cases, court documents show.

Saginaw County District Judge M. Randall Jurrens in October 2019 ordered Pugh to pay $6,104.70 to Scioli and Associates after the tax firm filed a lawsuit against her, arguing she did not pay for the services the agency provided her in response to her IRS-related issues.

Capital One, a credit card lender that claimed Pugh failed to pay her bills, sued her before Saginaw County District Judge A.T. Frank, court records stated. The case concluded with a May 2025 court consent order for Pugh to begin a monthly payment plan to cover $5,237.28 in damages and costs.

MidFirst Bank in June 2024 filed to foreclose on Pughs home in Saginaw. The case was dismissed in August 2024.

The new reporting comes after media coverage earlier this month detailed public scrutiny regarding Pughs financial decisions related to organizations she led and championed.

This week, the Saginaw City Council voted 6-2 to reverse its own September 2024 decision to allocate $210,000 in federal stimulus funds to Saginaw Just Transition-Indaba, a project tied to Regeneration LLC, a group co-founded by Pugh.

Prior to the reversal at the Monday, Nov. 17, council meeting, Saginaw city officials warned council members that the projects original plans were revised after the allocations were approved last year. The updated plans were adjusted in part to spend 67% of the funding on personnel payroll. Officials argued the revision would have violated federal guidelines tied to the stimulus.

Pugh told MLive the citys reversal of support represented a grant administration failure not wrongdoing on our part.

We stand by the integrity of the work, Pugh said of a project tied to food and energy security initiatives.

Pugh also was the focus this month of a report in The Detroit News that stated she directed about $10,000 in leftover cash from a failed 2024 U.S. House campaign to herself and her consulting firm via a political action committee (PAC). Its a move experts said may violate Federal Election Commission guidelines that prevent former candidates from using leftover campaign funds to pay salaries to themselves.

Pugh this week told MLive her PACs spending complied with state and federal guidelines, pointing out other politicians and causes were recipients of the committees expenditures.

Opponents weaponizing this work are ignoring the facts and trying to distort legally disclosed expenditures, she said.

Pugh, 54, is one of 10 candidates pursuing the 35th District state Senate post that voters will weigh during a February 2026 primary election and a May 2026 general election.

Some consider Pugh a front-runner in a field of six Democrats and four Republicans pursuing the seat, which represents about 265,000 constituents across Bay, Saginaw and Midland counties.

Its a critical race that could sway the balance of political power across Michigan. The state Senate today consists of 19 Democrats and 18 Republicans.

Tax liens

A federal tax lien is the governments legal claim against an individuals property when that person neglects or fails to pay a tax debt, the IRS website stated. A lien protects the governments interest in the individuals property, including real estate, personal property and financial assets.

In the Saginaw County Register of Deeds database, documents showed two IRS notices of federal tax liens filed against Pugh remain unresolved.

Documents from lawsuits filed against Pugh stated the tax liens resulted in federal holds on Pughs home in Saginaw.

The first IRS tax lien notice was filed against Pugh in 2016 for unpaid taxes from 2012-14. For a total of $70,762.26, Pughs unpaid balances were $16,651.44 in 2012, $29,530.74 in 2013, and $24,580.08 in 2014, records showed.

A second IRS lien notice, filed in 2017, totaled $15,929.91 in unpaid taxes from 2011 and 2015. The unpaid balances amounted to $14,876.37 in 2011 and $1,053.54 in 2015, records showed.

The Register of Deeds records included no documents stating either of the tax liens were resolved.

Ive entered and maintained repayment agreements with the IRS and am in good standing, Pugh told MLive this week. Some liens remain publicly visible due to the IRSs reporting cycle, but they are either resolved or in progress under agreement. I expect to have these addressed by 2026.

There were records of additional tax liens that were resolved.

A third IRS tax lien was issued to Pugh in January 2018 for $1,841.36 in unpaid income taxes from 2016. A September 2019 IRS notice stated Pugh resolved the unpaid balance for that specific case.

The Michigan Department of Treasury in 2017 issued two state tax lien notices related to unpaid income taxes spanning 2016-17, records showed.

Both state tax notices  totaling $14,007.56 and $3,523.82, respectively  were paid and resolved by June 2019, records stated.

Lawsuits

Pughs tax issues also were tied to a 2019 lawsuit filed against her by Scioli and Associates, a Saginaw Township-based accounting firm that claimed she failed to pay the business for its services.

Court documents from Scioli and Associates stated Pugh hired the firm in 2016  the year of the first IRS tax lien notice issued to Pugh  and accountants began communicating with IRS, state and City of Saginaw officials regarding Pughs tax compliance.

The lawsuit concluded when Judge Jurrens in October 2019 ordered Pugh to pay the firm $6,104.70 in costs, court records stated.

Pugh told MLive she has paid those costs in full.

Pugh was involved in another, more recent lawsuit filed in the Saginaw County courthouse.

Capital One, a credit card lender, filed its lawsuit against Pugh in November 2024 for missed payments extending back more than one year, court records showed.

Court records stated Pugh signed an agreement to pay Capital One a settlement of $5,237.28 in damages and costs, via a $108-per-month payment plan. Judge Frank signed the consent judgment in May 2025.

Pugh told MLive she continues to pay the $108 monthly bill.

Oklahoma City-based MidFirst Bank filed a lawsuit against Pugh in June 2024 to foreclose on the same Saginaw home tied to Pughs tax liens.

One month later, though, MidFirst Bank dismissed the lawsuit, court records stated.

Pugh told MLive the case was resolved via a stipulation agreement and payment arrangement.

Pugh claimed in a statement released Nov. 18 that Democratic party insiders are using her past financial issues as a way to undermine her candidacy.

This isnt about scrutiny. Its about strategy, she said in the statement. And the strategy is clear: undermine the candidate with the strongest grassroots support.
Screen shot of the Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity WARN notice portal. Michigan Department of Labor and Economic Opportunity

GLADWIN, MI  Connecticut-based Inline Plastics Corp. has informed state officials it will permanently close its Mid-Michigan facility in early January.

The manufacturing facility, at 705 Weaver Court in Gladwin, will shut down permanently on Jan. 12, according to a WARN notice filed with the state.

The closure is anticipated to affect 25 employees, all of whom will be terminated, states a Nov. 11 letter from company attorney Alicia Orkisz.

All affected employees have been notified of their separation dates and that their separation from employment will be permanent, wrote Orkisz, who is the daughter of third-generation company owner Tom Orkisz.

The affected employees are not represented by a union and do not have bumping rights, she stated.

The family-owned company was founded in 1968 and has been in the Orkisz family since the beginning, the company website indicates.

The company, which has a focus on sustainable food packaging, also operates two facilities in Connecticut, two in Georgia and one in Utah.

A reason for the closure of the Gladwin facility was not given to state officials.
Two sister turkeys, Faygo and Vernors, have been saved from the Thanksgiving table thanks to a pardon from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer. (Photo provided by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's office) Gov. Gretchen Whitmer's office

Two turkey sisters, Faygo and Vernors, have been saved from the Thanksgiving table thanks to a pardon from Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.

Whitmer pardoned the pair Tuesday, Nov. 18, outside of the Capitol Building.

Today we continue our tradition of pardoning a turkey, Whitmer said. But this year, were pardoning two turkey sisters, a reminder that the most important part of the holiday season is coming together with friends and family. This Thanksgiving, I hope everyone enjoys time with loved ones, finds a way to give back to the community and cheers on our Lions.

The turkey names are a nod to Michigans pop history, with soft drink company Faygo being founded and headquartered in Detroit and Vernors ginger ale being created in Detroit.

The names were among 1,500 entries submitted by residents hoping to name the pardoned poultry. Thousands of Michiganders voted on their favorite entries, Whitmers office said.

Whitmer began her annual Thanksgiving turkey pardon in 2022, mirroring the presidential tradition that started annually with President George H.W. Bush.

Last year, she pardoned Aidan Cluckinson, a play on the name of Detroit Lions star defensive end Aidan Hutchinson.

She pardoned Dolly Pardon in 2023 and Mitch E. Gander in 2022.

Turkey pardoning by the president has roots as far back as President Abraham Lincoln, according to White House historians.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed into law an expansion of the House and Senates police forces. (Ryan Stanton | MLive.com) Ryan Stanton | The Ann Arbor News

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer has signed into law an expansion of the House and Senates police forces.

The bill signed Tuesday, Nov. 18, by Whitmer will allow sergeants at arms from both chambers to operate anywhere in the state to protect lawmakers and investigate threats or crimes against legislators.

The new law, which will likely take effect in March, gives the House speaker and the Senate majority leader the final say on whether a lawmaker or their family gets protection from the sergeants and whether the sergeants investigate a threat against a lawmaker.

Some have raised concerns the new law isnt needed to protect lawmakers, that it gives leadership too much power and that the sergeants could be used for political means.

Whitmers office declined to comment on the concerns. In a press release, her office said the new law will reduce the threat of political violence toward the states lawmakers.

The sergeants are currently tasked with enforcing state law and House and Senate rules, but their jurisdiction is limited to the Capitol Building, legislative office buildings, legislative parking areas and wherever the chambers or their committees hold meetings. The sergeants are law enforcement officers.

House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, told reporters last week that political assassinations in the U.S. this year expedited conversations around the legislation, which was part of the budget negotiations this summer and fall.

Michigan has seen threats against politicians as well, including recent bomb threats at the homes of state Sen. Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield, and Lt. Gov. Garlin Gilchrist. Halls office also pointed to protesters demonstrating outside the home of state Rep. Angela Rigas, R-Caledonia, last month.

The states current budget includes a $6 million allocation that will make the expansion of the security and enforcement capabilities of the sergeants possible.

The House currently has 19 sergeants at arms. That number will likely increase under the new law, Hall told reporters.

Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks, D-Grand Rapids, did not respond to a request for comment about how many sergeants the Senate has and whether those ranks would increase under the new law.

State Sen. Ed McBroom, R-Waucedah Township, was among those who voted against the bill. He said the expansion of duties of the sergeants at arms and the $6 million allocated to make it happen is neither reasonable nor necessary, as the current system for protecting lawmakers and investigating threats is already working.

McBroom was among those concerned the law gives too much power to House and Senate leadership.

I had several conversations with a few of my colleagues who were expressing some concerns about putting all this power to start and stop investigations in the hands of the speaker or the majority leader, he said. That seems like a lot of additional power to place in those hands for either party.

Hall was asked by reporters if there are any safeguards in place to prevent political investigations ordered by legislative leadership.

The purpose is to protect elected officials, and in order to do that you have to expand the jurisdiction and scope of these sergeants, but were not trying to have sergeants just pull people over on the side of the road or investigate things that dont have to do with the security of legislators, Hall responded.

The legislation comes as the House last week passed another bill that proponents say would protect lawmakers from violence.

Under that legislation, state and federal lawmakers and other elected state officials would have the ability to conceal their property addresses and employer information.

Critics warn the legislation creates significant transparency issues. That bill awaits consideration by the Senate.

The sergeant-at-arms law will take effect 91 days after the Legislature concludes for the year. The laws effective date is likely sometime in March.

Under the law, the sergeants will be able to provide security to a lawmaker, their family or staff if it is needed due to threats or crimes committed against a lawmaker in the course of the legislative members official duties.

Sergeants will also be able to provide security at an event attended by a lawmaker if that attendance is part of the lawmakers official duties. Official duties arent defined in the law.

For the sergeants to provide security or start an investigation, a lawmaker must request those services from the House speaker or Senate majority leader, depending on which chamber the lawmaker belongs to.
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Japanese Fashion designer Nigo is adding an artistic spin to one of Nikes most celebrated designs.

The Air Force 3 Low x Nigo Phantom and Night Stadium drops on Thursday, Nov. 20, at 10 a.m. ET for $170 a pair.

This new look draws inspiration from kintsugi, the art of repairing broken pottery with lacquer and powdered precious metals like gold, silver and platinum. The result is an entirely new, beautiful look highlighting the flaws in a fresh light.

Air Force 3 Nike Air Force 3 Low x Nigo Phantom and Night Stadium $170 on Nike

In this design, the textured leather plays the role of the pottery and a debossed gold split becomes kintsugi. Asymmetrical blocking and a split-colored midsole complete the look.

If you want a pair, plan to be online early. Designer collaborations go fast at Nike, and the new Nigo Air Force 3 may not be available after launch day. You can also check out the remaining limited-edition sneaker drops with our November Nike SNKRS launch calendar to plan ahead for when to be online.
The weather data has been showing a possibly abrupt switch to a more wintry pattern coming to Michigan. Now we have some consistency on when exactly the colder air will settle into Michigan.

Over the last few days we knew the colder air was definitely coming. We also knew the cold air would arrive sometime from the day before Thanksgiving to the weekend after Thanksgiving.

We now have pretty good confidence the colder air will start to slowly filter in next Wednesday, and continue to drop temperatures on Thanksgiving. Friday and Saturday look cold too.

In Michigan, very cold air in late November can either bring a widespread snowstorm or localized lake-effect snow. In this case it looks like a lake-effect snow situation.

I mentioned the colder air starting Wednesday, a big travel day. The good news is the largest area of precipitation will precede the cold air, and move out of Michigan before the cold arrives. The initial precipitation will be rain across Lower Michigan and even the Upper Peninsula next Tuesday and Tuesday night. The rain will end, and then the cold air will move in.

On Thanksgiving it appears likely lake-effect snow will develop. This means the snowy parts of Michigan on Thanksgiving will be over northwest Lower Michigan, southwest Lower Michigan and the Upper Peninsula. Outside of the heavier accumulating lake-effect areas, we will have occasional snow showers without a lot of accumulation.

The lake-effect snow will likely continue into Friday and Saturday, but Saturdays lake-effect may be more isolated.

Here are the high temperature forecasts for next Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

Tuesday wont be anywhere near freezing in the afternoon over Lower Michigan.

High temperature forecast for Tuesday, November 25, 2025 NOAA

Wednesday will still have morning and early afternoon temperatures in the 40s for southern Lower Michigan. If you are traveling north to Traverse City or farther north, you could encounter freezing temperatures by late Wednesday afternoon.

High temperature forecast for Thanksgiving 2025. NOAA

Thanksgiving will be colder, with afternoon temperatures in the 30s over southern Lower and in the 20s for northern Lower and the U.P.

High temperature forecast for Thanksgiving 2025. NOAA

Black Friday will also be a cold one with temperatures only in the 20s and low 30s.

High temperature forecast for Friday, November 28, 2025. NOAA

Right now Id say the lake-effect situation looks like 4-8 of snow in the typical snowbelts, and thats through the extended period of Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Saturday.

This isnt a historic cold snap, but we will feel like winter is here by Thanksgiving.
From January to September 2025, China's passenger vehicle exports showed a diversified regional pattern, with strong performance from leading brands and intensified competition between established and emerging players. BYD Auto ranked first in Southeast Asia, Latin America, underscoring the core competitiveness of Chinese automakers in new energy technology and global market expansion.

Emerging players posted phenomenal growthLeapmotor recorded a 725.7% YoY surge in Europe, highlighting how Chinese automakers are breaking through rapidly with differentiated products and targeted regional strategies.

Market polarization is intensifying: Tesla's exports to Europe declined YoY, while SAIC PV saw sharp drops in North America and Southeast Asia. Growth pressure on some traditional joint ventures underscores that global competition has entered a phase defined by product strength, supply chain resilience, and localized operationswhere precise market alignment and rapid technology iteration are key to winning.

Top 10 Chinese automakers by passenger vehicle exports to Europe

SAIC PV: 198,823 units, up 6.8% year-on-year

BYD Auto: 196,889 units, up 218.2% year-on-year

Chery Auto: 116,854 units, up 164.6% year-on-year

Tesla: 73,841 units, down 37.3% year-on-year

Geely Auto: 52,497 units, down 45.8% year-on-year

Spotlight Automotive: 37,531 units, up 7.7% year-on-year

Volkswagen Anhui: 30,413 units, up 78.4% year-on-year

Leapmotor: 19,858 units, up 725.7% year-on-year

eGT: 18,053 units, up 4.5% year-on-year

Geely-Volvo: 17,982 units, down 4.5% year-on-year

The European market shows a clear pattern of high concentration among top players, rapid growth of emerging forces, and intensified differentiation among automakers.

SAIC PV led with 198,823 units (+6.8% YoY), reflecting steady growth; BYD Auto followed closely with 196,889 units (+218.2% YoY), narrowing the gap to just 1,934 units and highlighting its strong momentum in electrification and globalization; Chery Auto ranked third with 116,854 units (+164.6% YoY), showing solid expansion in Europe. Together, SAIC PV, BYD Auto, and Chery Auto exported about 512,600 units, taking 67.2% of the top 10 total  forming a clear first-tier dominance in the European market.

Emerging players are becoming increasingly eye-catching. Leapmotor exported 19,858 units, a staggering 725.7% YoY increase, positioning itself as a rising force among Chinese brands entering Europe with a sharp, differentiated product strategy. Meanwhile, Volkswagen Anhui exported 30,413 units, up 78.4% YoY, signaling a notable breakthrough for joint ventures  a new variable in China's passenger vehicle exports to Europe.

Meanwhile, market divergence has intensified. Tesla exported 73,841 units, down 37.3% YoY; Geely Auto exported 52,497 units, down 45.8% YoY; and Geely-Volvo also saw a 4.5% YoY decline. These results likely reflect intensified competition from the surge of Chinese brands in Europe, accelerated electrification among local European automakers, and internal factors such as product cycles and strategic adjustments.

Overall, Chinese brands continue to deepen their presence in Europe. The combination of established leaders and emerging challengers is driving sustained export growth. However, the widening gap in growth rates among companies signals an increasingly fierce competitive landscape, where product strength, supply chain resilience, and localized operations will be the decisive factors for success in the European market.

Top 10 Chinese automakers by passenger vehicle exports to Southeast Asia

BYD Auto: 109,848 units, up 133.5% year-on-year

Chery Auto: 63,438 units, up 141.4% year-on-year

Geely Auto: 57,709 units, up 33.7% year-on-year

Changan Auto: 26,041 units, up 55.9% year-on-year

Great Wall Motor: 15,064 units, up 33.0% year-on-year

SAIC PV: 14,871 units, down 22.7% year-on-year

Jiangsu Yueda Kia: 13,055 units, up 5.6% year-on-year

Tesla: 11,989 units, up 9.3% year-on-year

Jiangling Motor: 10,826 units, up 3.7% year-on-year

XPENG: 10,019 units

From January to September, China's passenger vehicle exports to Southeast Asia continued to rise. BYD Auto led the market with 109,848 units, up 133.5% YoY, highlighting its strong technological foundation in new energy and deep market penetration. Chery Auto followed with 63,438 units, a surge of 141.4% YoY, while Geely Auto ranked third with 57,709 units, up 33.7% YoY, reflecting steady gains from diversified products and expanding brand influence. Changan Auto and Great Wall Motor also maintained solid growth, underscoring the sustained momentum of Chinese brands in Southeast Asia.

Overall, Chinese brands are gaining stronger traction in Southeast Asia's export market, driven increasingly by the rapid growth of new energy models. As companies adopt different technological paths and market strategies, market differentiation is becoming more apparent. Leading players are further consolidating their advantages through product competitiveness and channel strength. As a result, Southeast Asianow a core hub for China's passenger vehicle exportsis entering a new phase defined by refined, high-intensity competition.

Top 10 Chinese automakers by passenger vehicle exports to North America

SAIC-GM-Wuling: 83,617 units, up 11.1% year-on-year

BYD Auto: 78,375 units, up 101.4% year-on-year

Changan-Ford: 25,951 units, down 23.0% year-on-year

Chery Auto: 25,279 units, up 12.9% year-on-year

SAIC PV: 22,618 units, down 55.7% year-on-year

Jiangsu Yueda Kia: 22,244 units, up 3.2% year-on-year

Geely Auto: 21,660 units, up 0.8% year-on-year

SAIC-GM: 20,711 units, down 56.3% year-on-year

GAC Trumpchi: 12,658 units, up 34.0% year-on-year

Great Wall Motor: 10,842 units, up 71.6% year-on-year

The North American market is showing an increasingly polarized landscape. Automakers leading in electrification and transformation continue to post strong growth: SAIC-GM-Wuling topped the list with 83,617 units, up 11.1% YoY, followed closely by BYD Auto with 78,375 units, up 101.4%. GAC Trumpchi and Great Wall Motor also delivered impressive growth of 34.0% and 71.6%, respectively. These results highlight the advantages of Chinese automakers in new energy technology and global product strategy, with NEVs emerging as the key driver unlocking growth in the North American market.

Traditional joint ventures face growth bottlenecks: SAIC-GM and SAIC PV both fell over 55%, while Changan Ford dropped 23.0%. Mid-tier brands such as Chery Auto (+12.9%), Jiangsu Yueda Kia, and Geely remained largely flat, showing stable yet limited momentum.

Overall, Chinese automakers' exports to North America are in a key phase of "NEV rise vs. traditional adjustment," where electrification and global operation capabilities will define future competitiveness.

Top 10 Chinese automakers by passenger vehicle exports to Central and South America

BYD Auto: 116,678 units, down 0.5% year-on-year

Chery Auto: 96,150 units, up 17.5% year-on-year

Great Wall Motor: 48,704 units, up 57.0% year-on-year

Jiangsu Yueda Kia: 35,544 units, down 7.2% year-on-year

Jiangling Motor: 28,211 units, up 87.4% year-on-year

Geely Auto: 18,657 units, unchanged year-on-year

SAIC-GM-Wuling: 16,690 units, down 30.2% year-on-year

SAIC PV: 15,225 units, up 22.6% year-on-year

DFSK: 14,808 units, up 60.8% year-on-year

Changan Auto: 14,337 units, down 17.9% year-on-year

From January to September, the performance of Chinese automakers in the Latin American market showed further divergence. BYD Auto led with 116,678 units exported, slightly down 0.5% YoY due to intensified global competition and a high base effect. Chery Auto followed with 96,150 units, up 17.5% YoY, narrowing the gap through its strong lineup of affordable models and deep local channels. Great Wall Motor (+57.0% YoY), Jiangling Motor (+87.4% YoY), SAIC PV (+22.6% YoY), and DFSK (+60.8% YoY) emerged as key growth drivers.

In contrast, some automakers faced mounting pressure: SAIC-GM-Wuling saw exports drop 30.2% YoY, while Changan Auto declined 17.9%, indicating a need to refine their regional strategies and optimize product portfolios.

Overall, competition in the Latin American market has entered a stage of precision play. Automakers must focus on product differentiation, deeper localization, and faster technology iteration. Only by aligning with the region's energy structure and consumer preferences can they achieve sustainable growth in this key export market.

Top 10 Chinese automakers by passenger vehicle exports to Middle East

Chery Auto: 190,573 units, down 32.9% year-on-year

BYD Auto: 87,135 units, up 114.8% year-on-year

SAIC PV: 70,907 units, down 4.1% year-on-year

Geely Auto: 64,036 units, down 2.6% year-on-year

Jiangsu Yueda Kia: 63,532 units, up 23.4% year-on-year

FAW-Toyota: 61,525 units, up 123.1% year-on-year

Changan Auto: 60,607 units, up 44.7% year-on-year

Great Wall Motor: 40,404 units, up 144.3% year-on-year

Southeast Auto: 37,237 units, up 236.9% year-on-year

Beijing Hyundai: 31,604 units, up 63.9% year-on-year

From January to September, the competitive landscape of the Middle Eastern market showed a clear pattern of "traditional leaders adjusting while emerging players surge." Among the established leaders, Chery remained at the top with over 190,573 units exported, though its volume declined 32.9% YoY due to intensified competition and a high base effect. SAIC Motor and Geely also posted slight decreases of 4.1% and 2.6%, respectively, underscoring the need for traditional players to accelerate strategic adjustments to stay competitive in the region.

In contrast, BYD Auto surged 114.8% YoY, driven by its strong NEV lineup. FAW-Toyota and Great Wall Motor grew over 120%, with Great Wall Motor up 144.3%. Changan Auto and Beijing Hyundai also posted double-digit growth, underscoring rising recognition of Chinese and joint-venture brands in the Middle East, especially for NEVs and smart models.

Overall, the Middle East has become a strategic stronghold for Chinese automakers. The pace of NEV transition and differentiated product strategies are now key drivers of growth. To maintain their market positions, established players must accelerate alignment with regional energy structures and consumer preferences, while emerging brands need to strengthen product competitiveness and channel networks to achieve sustainable expansion in this vital market.
Indias first Tesla Centre to open on November 26 in Gurugram

Indias first Tesla Centre to come up in Gurugram

Swaraj Baggonkar

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According to data compiled by the Gasgoo Automotive Research Institute, the regional export patterns of BYD, Geely Holding Group, and Chery Holding Group in September 2025 show a clear trend of differentiated market focus. The CIS region (led by Uzbekistan) remains the core export stronghold for both Geely Holding and Chery Holding, while BYD continues to strengthen its lead in Southeast Asia. In contrast, all three automakers are unlocking new momentum in Europe and the Middle Eastkey mid- to high-end markets. Notably, Chery Holding recorded strong growth with 23,885 units exported to the Middle East and 16,889 units to Europe.

The regional export destination ranking of BYD passenger vehicles in September 2025 is as follows:

Southeast Asia: In September, BYD exported 17,357 units to Southeast Asia.

Middle East: In September, BYD exported 13,948 units to the Middle East.

Europe: In September, BYD exported 13,898 units to Europe.

Central & South America: In September, BYD exported 9,981 units to Central & South America.

CIS Countries: In September, BYD exported 5,434 units to CIS markets.

Rest of Asia: In September, BYD exported 4,380 units to other Asian markets.

Oceania: In September, BYD exported 4,284 units to Oceania.

Africa: In September, BYD exported 2,074 units to Africa.

North America: In September, BYD exported 604 units to North America.

In September, BYD's exports showed a clear three-pillar structure. Southeast Asia ranked first with 17,357 units, driven by strong electrification policies and BYD's local presence. The Middle East (13,948 units) and Europe (13,898 units) followed closely, supported by strong PHEV demand in the Middle East and BYDs balanced BEV/PHEV strategy in Europe. Together, the three regions contributed about 62.8% of BYD's total exports.

Additionally, BYD exported 5,434 units to CIS countries (mainly Uzbekistan), 4,380 units to other Asian markets, 4,284 units to Oceania, 2,074 units to Africa, and 604 units to North America (Mexico). While performance varied across regions, each market generally aligned with BYD's global expansion strategy. The dip in North America was likely due to shipping delays and limited capacity to Mexico, while Africa remains in an early market-cultivation phase with growth potential yet to be unlocked.

Overall, BYD's September export mix reflects both the breadth of its global footprint and its precise response to diverse market needs. From capturing policy-driven demand in Southeast Asia, to making steady inroads into Europe's higher-end markets, and deepening its presence in Latin America, BYD is building a more diversified and resilient export ecosystem.

The regional export destination ranking of Geely Holding passenger vehicles in September 2025 is as follows:

CIS Countries: In September, Geely Holding exported 18,733 units to CIS markets.

Europe: In September, Geely Holding exported 9,308 units to Europe.

Africa: In September, Geely Holding exported 4,817 units to Africa.

Southeast Asia: In September, Geely Holding exported 4,513 units to Southeast Asia.

North America: In September, Geely Holding exported 3,992 units to North America.

Middle East: In September, Geely Holding exported 3,610 units to the Middle East.

Central & South America: In September, Geely Holding exported 3,151 units to Central & South America.

Rest of Asia: In September, Geely Holding exported 1,913 units to other Asian markets.

Oceania: In September, Geely Holding exported 1,662 units to Oceania.

In September, Geely Holding's passenger vehicle exports showed a clear pattern of "CIS-led dominance, strong European growth, and broad expansion across emerging markets." The CIS region led by a wide margin with 18,733 units, reflecting Geely's long-standing brand presence, mature channel network, and the region's increasing acceptance of Chinese brands. Europe ranked second with 9,308 units, and as a key pillar of Geely Holding's global strategy, its growth was driven by a combination of technology synergies and localized operations.

Additionally, other regions delivered solid performance: Africa (4,817 units), Southeast Asia (4,513 units), North America (3,992 units, mainly Mexico), the Middle East (3,610 units), Central & South America (3,151 units), other Asian markets (1,913 units), and Oceania (1,662 units). Among these, Africa and Southeast Asia have emerged as dual engines driving Geelys expansion across emerging markets.

Overall, Geely Holding's September export mix highlights both the depth of its global footprint and its ability to precisely adapt to diverse regional market needs. From consolidating its lead in the CIS, to achieving higher-end breakthroughs in Europe, and steadily penetrating emerging markets such as Africa and Southeast Asia, Geely Holding's export landscape is showing increasing diversification and strengthening market resilience.

The regional export destination ranking of Chery Holding passenger vehicles in September 2025 is as follows:

CIS Countries: In September, Chery Holding exported 26,938 units to CIS markets.

Middle East: In September, Chery Holding exported 23,885 units to the Middle East.

Europe: In September, Chery Holding exported 16,889 units to Europe.

Central & South America: In September, Chery Holding exported 15,858 units to Central & South America.

Africa: In September, Chery Holding exported 12,860 units to Africa.

Southeast Asia: In September, Chery Holding exported 11,031 units to Southeast Asia.

Oceania: In September, Chery Holding exported 7,559 units to Oceania.

North America: In September, Chery Holding exported 4,109 units to North America.

Rest of Asia: In September, Chery Holding exported 799 units to other Asian markets.

In September, Chery Holding's exports showed a clear "dual-core" pattern. The CIS region led the pack with 26,938 units, followed by the Middle East with 23,885 units. Together contributing over 50,000 units, these two markets formed Chery Holding's main growth engines.

Across other regions, Chery Holding exported 16,889 units to Europe, reflecting its dual push in both EVs and ICE models and supporting its ongoing breakthroughs in the European market. Exports to Central & South America reached 15,858 units, with the Brazil industrial park continuing to serve as a key growth engine. Meanwhile, Africa (12,860 units) and Southeast Asia (11,031 units) highlight Chery Holding's deep penetration into major emerging markets. In addition, Oceania (7,559 units), North America (4,109 units, mainly Mexico), and Other Asia (799 units), though smaller in scale, all align with the company's broader global expansion strategy.

Overall, Chery Holding's September exports reflect both the breadth and depth of its global layout, with a precise response to diverse market needs. From consolidating advantages in core regions to making breakthroughs in high-end and emerging markets, Chery Holding demonstrates a diversified and highly resilient growth patternoffering a standout example of Chinese brands advancing globally.
Assam Board Exam Date Sheet 2026 (OUT): HSLC from Feb 10, HS from Feb 11; full schedule here

MC Education Desk Read the latest and trending news on CBSE, board exams, NEET, JEE, CUET, competitive exams, scholarships, college admissions, education policies, and more.

Saurav Pandey

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'Oxford of the East' isn't a myth but a city in India with 1400+ colleges

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Saurav Pandey

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Vaishnavi Gavankar

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Ajinkya Deo hails Farhan Akhtar's discipline and humility in 120 Bahadur: He went through a lot...', Exclusive

Ajinkya Deo hails Farhan Akhtar's discipline and humility in 120 Bahadur: He went through a lot...', Exclusive

Vaishnavi Gavankar

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Yangwang is one of China's lesser-known car brands, internationally recognised mainly for setting a recent world speed record for production cars. Now the BYD-owned marque is planning a European launch for its high-end U8 electric SUV, which can even float on water.

Yangwang launched the distinctive petrol-electric U8 in January 2023 in China, with domestic sales starting from September 20. So far, it has only been showcased in Europe, making an appearance at the 2024 Geneva car show.

The heavyweight, five-seat off-roader has been hailed as one of the world's most powerful SUVs, with a massive 1,200 horsepower on tap. It boasts acceleration from zero to 100 km/h in 3.6 seconds, and BYD claims a battery range of over 1,000 km.

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Other features include its ability to float on water for up to 30 minutes and turn on the spot like a tank, thanks to an electric motor at each wheel.

"With the left and right wheels turning in opposite directions, the U8 pirouettes with all the grace of a circus elephant," noted Autocar magazine tester Illya Verpraet earlier this year.

BYD vice president Stella Li said the companys plan is to bring Yangwang into Europe from 2027. She would not be drawn on the price for the car, which will compete against upmarket SUVs from Bentley and Rolls-Royce. It costs the equivalent of around 130,000 in China.

Yangwang will follow BYD's Denza brand, which is set to launch in Europe early next year. Earlier this year, its range sibling, the quadruple-motor U9 Extreme supercar, entered the record books when it touched 496.22 km/h at the Papenburg test circuit in Germany.
Orry summoned by Mumbai Police in massive Rs 252 crore drug case, influencer to appear for questioning on Thursday

M Snehanjali is a Sub Editor and journalist with over two years of experience covering general news and entertainment in digital newsroom.

The case began in March 2024 when a large-scale mephedrone manufacturing facility operating on a farm in Sangli district was discovered by Mumbai Police.

M Snehanjali

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Parineeti Chopra names her son Neer, shares first glimpse: "Our hearts found peace in an eternal drop of life"

Gayatri Rani is a Senior-Sub Editor with over three years of experience in delivering Hollywood and Bollywood news.

Gayatri Rani

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M Snehanjali is a Sub Editor and journalist with over two years of experience covering general news and entertainment in digital newsroom.

As the grieving family continues to seek justice and cope with an unimaginable loss, Sonu Soods gesture has brought a crucial sense of security and hope to the childs future.

M Snehanjali

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When Hema Malini and daughters Esha, Ahana spoke about their bond with Sunny and Bobby Deol: 'They are nice boys'

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Now, a heartwarming old interview featuring Hema Malini and her daughters, Esha Deol and Ahana Deol, during their teenage years on Simi Garewal's show, has resurfaced.

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With Varanasi, Priyanka Chopra surpasses Deepika Padukone and Alia Bhatt to become Indias highest paid actress

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Tamil actress Manya Anand accuses Dhanushs manager of casting couch: 'You will not comply even if its sir?'

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Varanasi not being made at Rs 1200-1300 cr budget, read to know SS Rajamoulis master plan

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Theatre actress Aditi Mukherjee, who worked with Ashutosh Rana, dies in tragic road accident in Noida

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Why Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum waved the Indian flag at Nepal concert and why it sparked debate

Why Pakistani rapper Talha Anjum waved the Indian flag at Nepal concert and why it sparked debate

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Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.

Delhis toxic smog is worsening COPD and other lung diseases. Doctors explain the link between pollution and respiratory damage, share expert tips to stay safe.

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Why COPD cases are rising sharply in India and why its no longer a smokers disease

COPD is no longer a smokers disease. Doctors explain why cases are rising across India (Image: Pexels)

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Why Narayana Murthy's 72-hour workweek suggestion is dangerous for health: Neurologist breaks down impact on brain, productivity

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Narayana Murthys call for a 72-hour workweek has triggered a nationwide debate. Doctors warn that extreme work hours can cause chronic stress, disrupted sleep, heart disease, anxiety, and burnout.

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How to cope with grief: Psychiatrist suggests tips to help you through tough emotional times

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Grief is painful but manageable. A psychiatrist shares simple, compassionate ways to copethrough talking, journaling, rituals, self-care, and support. (Image: Pexels)

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Hindustan Aeronautics to begin delivery of 8 Tejas Mk1A jets in next 2436 months

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Fractal plans to raise Rs 4,900 crore ($554 million) in its IPO, including a fresh issue of up to Rs 1,279 crore and a Rs 3,621 crore share sale by investors.

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[Source]

A father claiming U.S. citizenship was deported to Laos last month even as a federal judge ordered immigration authorities to keep him in the country, civil rights attorneys revealed in late October.

What happened: Chanthila Shawn Souvannarath, 44, reportedly departed on a flight from Baltimore to Laos on Oct. 24. Federal officials did not learn of Chief Judge Shelly D. Dicks Oct. 23 temporary restraining order until just before 3 p.m. the following day, roughly about four hours after Souvannaraths international flight took off.

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His lawyers, according to NOLA.com, say he is now confined in a Lao jail, reaching his wife only by using a guards phone. Meanwhile, U.S. authorities cannot confirm where he is. In her restraining order, Dick wrote that Souvannarath presented a substantial claim of U.S. citizenship and would be unable to effectively litigate his case from Laos, finding deportation would cause irreparable harm.

About Souvannarath: Souvannarath entered the U.S. as an infant after being born in a Thai refugee camp and received lawful permanent residence. When his Laotian-born father gained U.S. citizenship through naturalization in 1988, Souvannarath contends he automatically became a citizen under derivative citizenship provisions that existed in immigration law at that time. In 2004, however, Washington state courts convicted him of unlawful firearm possession and second-degree assault related to domestic violence, leading immigration authorities to issue a deportation order in 2006.

Trending on NextShark: Dinesh DSouza criticized over 'whiteys' remark backing Ramaswamy

On June 18, immigration agents took him into custody during a scheduled Alabama check-in that his two younger children witnessed, his wife Beatrice told AP News. Authorities then transferred him to the Camp 57 facility at Angola prison.

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What this means: Souvannaraths case reveals systemic weaknesses affecting refugees and their families who face challenges establishing citizenship status through documentation. This should alarm everyone, said Bridget Pranzatelli, staff attorney at the National Immigration Project, adding that federal agencies cannot simply ignore the other branches of government.

Beyond the immediate court order violation, mass detention creates conditions where people pursuing federal claims, including possible citizens, can be removed without adequate legal protections, according to advocates. Nora Ahmed, legal director of the ACLU of Louisiana, characterized the deportation as a catastrophic failure of the immigration system, raising concerns about others wrongfully deported from what she termed jails masquerading as immigration detention centers.

Trending on NextShark: He was deported to Laos despite court order blocking removal

Civil rights organizations representing Souvannarath say they are pursuing every legal avenue to bring him back and ensure ICE faces consequences for the court order violation.

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Avanti Feeds, other shrimp stocks jump up to 12% after China suspends Japanese seafood imports: Here's why

Debaroti Adhikary

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Infosys' Rs 18,000-crore share buyback window opens tomorrow: Here's why retail investors should be upbeat about it

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KEC International shares drop 7% after Power Grid bars company from new tenders for 9 months

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Sammaan Capital shares fall 13% as SC questions 'friendly approach' by CBI in probe against firm

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Technical View: October high remains crucial for bulls to drive Nifty toward 26,300, Bank Nifty closes above 59,000 for first time

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Your EPF pension decoded: Heres what you must know about eligibility and benefits

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'AI divide may be much worse than the digital divide, if we are not careful,' says Sarvam AI's cofounder Vivek Raghavan

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Tech, IT industry run huge risk if they do not turbocharge engineers, says MeitYs Abhishek Singh

Reshab Shaw

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Viswanath Pilla is a business journalist with 16 years of reporting experience. Based in Mumbai, Pilla covers pharma, healthcare and infrastructure sectors for Moneycontrol.

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A Donald Trump ally who admitted he had Nazi tendencies has been accused of intervening on behalf of the White House in the sex-trafficking investigation into misogynist influencer Andrew Tate, according to a new report.

Tate had been facing multiple allegations of trafficking women in the U.K, Romania, and the U.S. when he and his brother Tristan traveled to the United States from their home in Romania in late February.

Ahead of the trip to Florida, which was made by private jet, Tatea Trump and MAGA supporter who regularly boasts about being a misogynist to his millions of male followersposted on X: The Tates will be free, Trump is the president. The good old days are back.

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Amid calls from accusers for Tate to be arrested upon his arrival in the United States, officers from the Department of Homeland Securitys Customs and Border Protection confiscated the brothers electronic devicesonly for the White House to step in, according to ProPublica.

Enter Paul Ingrassia, a MAGA lawyer who formerly represented the Tate brothers and has described Andrew Tate as the embodiment of the ancient ideal of excellence.

Paul Ingrassias mother, Donna, is also a Trump supporter. / DHS/Facebook

Ingrassia, 30, who was working as the White House liaison to DHS, demanded senior DHS officials return the devices, according to interviews and records reviewed by ProPublica.

In a written request sent several days after the incident, and reviewed by the investigative outlet, Ingrassia criticized CBP for taking the action, saying it had not been a worthwhile use of its time and effort, and that the White House wanted the devices handed back to the Tates.

Andrew Tate and his brother Tristan had been under house arrest in Romania prior to their trip to Florida. / Inquam Photos/Octav Ganea via Reuters

ProPublica reports that the intervention caused alarm among DHS officials that they could be interfering with a federal investigation if they followed through with the instruction, according to interviews and screenshots of officials communications.

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One official told the outlet they had been outraged by the Ingrassia requests brazenness and the high-handed expectation of complicity, adding, It was so offensive to what were all here to do, to uphold the law and protect the American people. We dont want to be seen as handing out favors.

ProPublica reports that it was not known why law enforcement had confiscated the devices, whether they did any analysis on them and what that had shown, or whether Ingrassias intervention had hampered any investigation.

John F. Tobon, a retired assistant director for Homeland Security Investigations, which analyzes confiscated devices on behalf of CBP, said he had never heard of anything like that in my 30 years working, adding: For anyone to say this request is from the White House, it feels like an intimidation tactic.

The White House and DHS declined to answer questions about the incident when approached by ProPublica.

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When reached by phone by the outlet, Ingrassiawho last month lost a plum Senate-confirmed job after Politico revealed a string of vile group-chat messages in which he bragged about having a Nazi streakdenied helping the Tates. There was no intervention. Nothing happened, he said, before hanging up.

Aftre the texts were made public, Trump offered Ingrassia a role as deputy general counsel at the General Services Administration. / Alex Brandon/AP

Ingrassias lawyer, Edward Paltzik, said: Mr. Ingrassia never ordered that the Tate Brothers devices be returned to them, nor did he sayand nor would he have ever saidthat such a directive came from the White House. This story is fiction, simply not true.

Asked if Ingrassia had requested DHS return the devices, Paltzik declined to comment, saying that the word ask is inappropriate because it is meaningless in this context. He either ordered something or he didnt. And as I said, he did NOT order anything.

A DHS spokesperson did not address the specifics put to the department by ProPublica concerning the alleged intervention or its potential impact on an investigation. In a statement it said Customs and Border Protection performed a 100% baggage examination and detained all electronic media devices when the Tate Brothers entered the country. Electronic media devices were detained and turned over to Homeland Security Investigators for inspectional purposes.

When contacted by the Daily Beast, DHS offered the same statement. The White House did not respond to a request for comment from the Beast.
The bill passed the House 427-1, with the only no vote coming from Rep. Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who is a fervent supporter of Trump.

Tamal Nandi

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Soumya Sarkar is an independent expert based in New Delhi and Kolkata. Twitter: @scurve Instagram: @soumya.scruve. Views are personal, and do not represent the stance of this publication.

The results show that Indias clean-energy share is not rising fast enough to keep pace with growing demand. (Courtesy: AP file photo for representation)

Sonalee Borgohain

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Many people have deleted their mobile data, which will also be investigated, the sources said.

Tamal Nandi

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Rahul Gandhi has accused the Election Commission of working in collusion with the ruling BJP to facilitate the alleged vote fraud.

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Capture of Shalateng: The decisive counter-offensive where Indian troops broke the back of the tribal advance in 1947

The battle of Shalateng achieved what Indian planners had hoped but had not fully anticipated  the complete disintegration of the enemys offensive capability.

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Eternally grateful to PM Modi: Sheikh Hasina's son says India saved her during Bangladesh crisis

Deblina Halder

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Fresh rift in Mahayuti: Shinde Sena skips Cabinet meet over induction of new leaders; BJP goes into damage control

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Omar Abdullah says all Kashmiris being looked at with suspicion post Delhi blast: 'Attempts being made to...'

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Souptik Datta Reports on Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chennai. Btw, curiosity never kills the cat. You can reach me on souptik.datta@nw18.com

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Mohan Bhagwat says India does not need official declaration to be a Hindu Rashtra: 'Bharat and Hindu synonymous'

Mohan Bhagwat was addressing a gathering of intellectuals, scholars, editors, writers, and entrepreneurs during his visit to Assam, as part of the RSS's centenary celebrations.

Priyanjali Ghose

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Smriti Mishra

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'Never received threat but US attitude has changed': Ex-Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's son on Western pressure

Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran

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Nitish Kumar to take oath as Bihar CM for record 10th time on Thursday; PM Modi, Amit Shah to attend

Hemant Abhishek

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Nitish Kumar to take oath as Bihar CM for record 10th time tomorrow

Nitish Kumar met Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Monday in Patna to recommend the dissolution of the current legislative assembly

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Pakistan leader's big admission days after Delhi blast: 'Struck India from Red Fort to forests of Kashmir'

New Delhi: Police, security and rescue personnel at the site after a blast in a parked car near Red Fort left multiple vehicles in flames. (PTI Photo)

Armaan Bhatnagar

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In November last year, Bishnoi was arrested in California's Sacramento over entering the country will illegal documents

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PM Modi's call to reverse Macaulay's colonial mindset: All about the British historian and his controversial 200-year-old legacy

PM Modi was speaking during the Sixth Ramnath Goenka Lecture in New Delhi on Monday.

Priyanjali Ghose

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PM Modi to visit Johannesburg on Nov 21-23 to attend G20 Summit in S Africa

Smriti Mishra

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Authorities have identified Dr Muzammil Shakil, an MBBS doctor, as the occupant of the Dhauj accommodation where the explosives and weapons were discovered.

Siddharth Chakravorty

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The assets of a childless widow pass on to the husband's family after her death.

Priyanjali Ghose

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One of the things I actually missed during the government shutdown was the Transportation Security Administrations delightfully unhinged social media presence. It's always cheeky, punny, eyebrow-raising, and a great source of story ideas for me as a travel writer, too. Well, after weeks of silence during the federal shutdown, the agency returned to social media this week  and wasted no time reminding travelers exactly what officers were dealing with while the government was paused.

Guess who remembered their password? TSA joked in its comeback post, before thanking officers for working diligently without pay... and then rolling out a carousel of the jaw-dropping items people tried to bring through security over the past month. And if you assumed a shutdown meant fewer questionable carry-ons, TSAs latest roundup says otherwise.

At DallasFort Worth on October 6, officers uncovered what the agency diplomatically described as something that should have been labeled a bad idea from the start. TSA added that if you dont want an illicit response from law enforcement, its best to leave the junk at home.

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On October 9 at West Virginias CRW Airport, someone attempted to travel with an inert Valmara 69 anti-personnel mine  the kind of object that would grind an entire terminal to a halt. It looks like the real thing until bomb experts give an all-clear, TSA wrote. We shouldnt have to tell people to leave explosives, or things that look like theyd go boom-boom, at home, but here we are on repeat.

At Austins AUS Airport on November 1, a traveler packed a sickle in their carry-on. TSA leaned into its trademark dad-joke energy: Yes, its an edgy idea but heres a sharp bonus tip: Always pack knives and blades in your checked baggage.

And on November 9 at Newark (EWR), officers intercepted a concealed three-foot cane sword. Sword of goes without saying that a 3-ft cane blade shouldnt be carried onto a plane, the agency quipped. Zing!

TSA closed the post by reminding travelers that while some people were rusty on how to pack their bags, its AskTSA help line remained operational throughout the shutdown. And if youre unsure whether something should go in a carry-on, you can always check the agency's official "What can I bring" list online.
Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran

The Supreme Court bench was informed that the petitioners husband had used a lawyer to send the Talaq-e-Hasan notice, after her family allegedly refused dowry demands.

Rewati Karan

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Rewati Karan is Senior Sub Editor at Moneycontrol. She covers law, politics, business, and national affairs. She was previously Principal Correspondent at Financial Express and Copyeditor at ThePrint where she wrote feature stories and covered legal news. She has also worked extensively in social media, videos and podcasts at ThePrint and India Today. She can be reached at rewati.karan@nw18.com | Twitter: @RewatiKaran

Rewati Karan

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UP govt to fast-track letters of comfort issuance to investors to strengthen manufacturing ecosystem

Hemant Abhishek

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VVPAT not mandatory for local body polls, technically not feasible: Election Commission to Bombay HC

Hemant Abhishek

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Who is Al-Falah University chairman Jawad Siddiqui in ED custody arrested for 'money laundering'?

Rewati Karan

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'Winds of Bihar have arrived in Tamil Nadu': PM Modi's big message in Coimbatore

Siddharth Chakravorty

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OPINION | Bangladesh heads for strife as Jamaat and Awami League face off

Pratim Ranjan Bose is an independent columnist, researcher, and consultant. His Twitter handle is @pratimbose. Views are personal, and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Sentenced to death, but not done yet

Namrata Agarwal

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Bhumika Sevkani is a Research Analyst at the Indo-Pacific Studies Program at the Takshashila Institution. Views are personal and do not represent the stand of this publication.

Namrata Agarwal

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Namrata Agarwal

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The Northern Lights fill the sky with beautiful colors and sights, but not many of us know why it's happening or what it means.

This atmospheric event, also known as aurora borealis, happens because of a sort of chemical effect when charged particles from the sun come in contact with gases in Earth's atmosphere.

This causes a ton of energy to released into the sky int he form of gorgeous lights in shimmering colors, such as green, blue, and red. This is not only amazing to see occur, as it is not a common happening, but also serves as inspiration in so many other unexpected ways, such as Northern Lights-inspired cocktails!

Northern Lights

Northern Lights at Calissa in Water Mill. (Calissa)

As the Northern Lights recently made a rare appearance over Long Island and pockets all over the United States, Calissa in Water Mill introduced a fitting new tribute: The Northern Lights, a luminous blend of strawberry lemon vodka, violet liqueur, and limoncello.

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The Mykonos-inspired restaurant, known for its seafood-forward Greek fare, award-winning wine list, and lively weekend DJ sets, captures the same sense of wonder with this cocktail, bright, floral, and just the right amount of magic to toast under the Hamptons sky.

Midnight Ribbon

Midnight Ribbon at Katsubo in South Carolina (Katsubo)

At Katsubo in South Carolina, Sebastian Estes, General Manager, says this cocktail is basically a Martinez, but the pea-flower infusion gives it that deep blue-purple thing right off the bat.

"Once you mix it with the sweet vermouth and that little hit of cherry syrup, it shifts and goes from dark to this soft gradient, kinda like when the northern lights start to move and you get those streaks of purple and red under the green. The orange and cranberry bitters add just enough brightness that it sort of flickers on the palate, sweet at first, then a little bitter, then floral again. Nothing fancy, just simple ingredients that end up looking way more dramatic in the glass than youd expect. Its smooth, a little sweet, a little herbal, but really its the way the colors blend and settle that makes it feel like the aurora. You stir it, and it looks like the sky is doing that slow ripple thing," said Sebastian Estes in an email.

The Enchantress

The Enchantress at The Common Good in Aurora, Colorado. (Hard Knoch PR)

At The Common Good in Aurora, Colorado, looking to the sky's colorful lights for inspiration, the Celestial Enchantress includes strawberry syrup, raspberry liqueur, lime juice, club soda, Empress Gin and edible glitter. Grapes are frozen, soaked in prosecco, and then rolled in sugar for a playful garnish.

"The Enchantress is honestly one of my favorite drinks Ive ever come up with. Its this fun little mix that happens when butterfly pea gin hits a touch of lemon, and the whole thing shifts and comes alive. The edible glitter adds this tiny bit of magic that just makes you smile. I made it to remind people that cocktails can still surprise you, no matter how many youve tried," said Katie Youe, Restaurant & Bar Supervisor, in an email.
Indian techie suspected of killing woman, 6-year-old son in US. His office laptop cracked case

Detectives allege that accused Nazeer Hameed (left) had been following Sasikala Narra (right) and her family for 'a significant time' before the murders. (Image credit: FBI)

Ankita Sengupta

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An X user tried to check if keeping a watch under the mouse really does keep the cursor active and responded excitedly, 'It works!' (Image credit: @typicalnawazish/X)

Ankita Sengupta

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Married man tries to molest ex-girlfriend, forcibly kisses her. She bites off his tongue

During the struggle, the woman bit down on his tongue, severing a portion of it.

Shubhi Mishra

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Mumbai bakery calls out woman's AI-generated image after she seeks refund for cake ordered through Zomato

The company then reflected on how food businesses were frequently criticised in public spaces, while customers rarely faced scrutiny.

Shubhi Mishra

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Albino Asian water snake, also known as checkered keelback found in Assam for the first time. (Image: Canva)

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Gurpreet Singh

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Sheetal Kumari

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NASA to stream comet 3i/atlas multi-mission images live: When and where to watch

Hubble captured this image of the interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS on July 21, 2025, when the comet was 277 million miles from Earth. (Image: NASA/ESA)

Sheetal Kumari

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2 / 5

Canvas in Search brings everything into one interactive panel

Canvas, previously used for project organisation, now supports travel planning within Google Search. When users choose Create Canvas, the tool opens an integrated dashboard showing suggested hotels, attractions, maps, timings, and daily plans. Unlike generic static recommendations, Canvas updates dynamically based on new queries. Travellers can modify the duration, budget, preferred activities, or even compare hotels by distance, amenities, and pricing. The feature is currently available on desktop in the U.S. through the AI Mode Labs experiment.
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Shaurya Shubham

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iQOO 15 price leaked ahead of November launch: All we know

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Samsung announces Tap and Pay feature for Samsung Wallet: All the details

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This is the worlds luckiest flight route - here's why

Priyanka Roshan With over eight years in multimedia journalism, is passionate about storytellingboth visual and textualacross travel, jobs, business, markets, politics, and daily news. From crafting engaging articles to producing compelling videos, she blends creativity with strategy to bring stories to life. With a strong foundation in SEO, and video production she ensures content not only informs but also resonates with audiences.

The worlds luckiest flight route flies straight over Niagara Falls  giving travellers a rare chance to witness rainbows from 30,000 feet.

Priyanka Roshan

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Abhinav Gupta

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China ran AI propaganda to undermine Indias Rafale, boost its J-35 after Operation Sindoor: US study

In this image posted on Nov. 17, 2025, Sukhoi Su-30 MKI and Rafale aircrafts during the bilateral air exercise 'Garuda 25' between Indian Air Force and French Air and Space Force (FASF). (@IAF_MCC/X via PTI Photo)

Abhinav Gupta

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The forum will include panels on artificial intelligence, energy, technology, aerospace, health care and finance.

Arindam Roy

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Political leaflets depicting Sheikh Hasina and his father Sheikh Mujibur Rahman are seen on the floor of the vandalised Awami League headquarters days after a student-led uprising that ended the 15-year rule of Awami League's leader Sheikh Hasina in Dhaka on August 10, 2024. (Photo by LUIS TATO / AFP)

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From Facebook friendship to marriage: Lahore High Court steps in after Indian woman alleges harassment by Pakistan Police

Abhinav Gupta

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Lay down arms, join mainstream, surrendered Maoist leader Bhupathi appeals to cadres

Surrendered Maoist leader Mallojula Venugopal Rao alias Bhupathi on Wednesday again appealed to the cadres of the banned CPI (Maoist) to quit armed struggle and join the mainstream. The appeal by Bhupathi, a former spokesperson of the banned outfit, came a day after the death of Hidma, a top Naxalite commander, in an encounter in Andhra Pradesh.

Gadchiroli Police released a video appeal made by Bhupathi, who surrendered on October 15 along with 60 cadres. -- PTI
Jamal Khashoggis widow slams Saudi crown prince during US visit: 'Very painful, destroyed my life'

Hanan Khashoggi reiterated that she had previously written to Trump seeking his help to secure a financial settlement, saying her husbands killing had destroyed my life.

Deblina Halder

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Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman looks on during a meeting with US President Donald Trump (not pictured) in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC on November 18, 2025. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP)

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Pakistan defence minister warns of all-out war with India, blames New Delhi for Afghan strikes

Abhinav Gupta

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PM Modi to attend G20 Summit in South Africa: Five things to expect and India's priorities | Explained

Abhinav Gupta

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Political weaponisation of Epsteins network: How Trump is using the Larry Summers emails

Pradeep Tripathi

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Deblina Halder

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Technology is fast and the courts are slow: Why anti-trust law keeps losing to Silicon Valley

A US federal judge earlier this week ruled that Meta did not illegally suppress competition by buying Instagram and WhatsApp more than a decade ago. (Courtesy: Reuters photo)

Sonalee Borgohain

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Abbott said the move is supported by a recently enacted state law limiting property ownership by entities tied to foreign adversaries.

Deblina Halder

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'They dragged us, ripped our chaddors': Imran Khans sisters detained outside Adiala Jail after overnight sit-in

Abhinav Gupta

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U.S. President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman laugh during a meeting in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C.

Tamal Nandi

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A formal 123 Atomic Energy Act agreement, which customarily includes non-proliferation requirements, has yet to be signed, an Energy Department spokesman confirmed.

Arindam Roy

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US-Saudi defence pact and F-35 sale explained: How it could empower Pakistan and why India can't ignore it

US President Donald Trump (R) shakes hands with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman during an official dinner in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on November 18, 2025. (Photo by Brendan SMIALOWSKI / AFP)

Abhinav Gupta

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What next for Epstein files? US Congress has voted to release them, but big legal and political questions remain

A press conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act ahead of a House vote on the release of files related to Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington. (Courtesy: Reuters photo)

Sonalee Borgohain

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November 19, 2025 Ukraine SitRep  Power Play In Kiev And Chaos At The Front The situation in Ukraine is becoming even more complicate. The war on the frontline is going bad for Ukraine as is the war on infrastructure deep behind the contact line. A corruption scandal is used to neuter President Zelenski. New power structures are set to evolve to further the execution of the war. President Trump is attempting to impose another peace effort while Europe finds that it lacks the money to finance Ukraine and the war. There are at least seven cities which are falling or are destined to fall within the next few month.

bigger Kupyansk is largely under Russian control. During the last days Russian forces took some 25% of Siversk. Pokrovsk is to 95% in Russian hands. Fighting in its encircled sister city Mirnograd is slowly coming to an end. The road between Pokrovske and Guliaipole has been taken. The later city is thus cut off from its main supply line and will soon be encircled. Kupyansk is largely under Russian control. During the last days Russian forces took some 25% of Siversk. Pokrovsk is to 95% in Russian hands. Fighting in its encircled sister city Mirnograd is slowly coming to an end. The road between Pokrovske and Guliaipole has been taken. The later city is thus cut off from its main supply line and will soon be encircled. The Ukrainian command had thrown in all its reserves to prevent the taking of Prokovsk and Kupiyansk. It was to no avail. All regular Ukrainian brigades lack infantry. The constant Russian drone attacks have also taken a large toll on the logistic elements of those units. General Syrski, the Ukrainian commander in chief, had set his bet on newly developed assault units to allow for offensive action while neglecting the general brigades which have to hold the lines. The weakened lines broke down when the Russian infiltrate them. Assault units were sent in and wasted on counterattacks that were supposed to stop further Russian breakthroughs but failed to have significant effects. Defense fortifications and buildings can no longer protect the soldiers. Each day Russia is using 200 or more glide bombs to demolish them. Drones and artillery strikes follow. Russian infantry sneaks in to mop up remaining resistance. It is a fairly slow process but it works for the Russians and is causing them a minimum of casualties. The war on infrastructure far behind the line of contact is also preceding at a high pace. Ukraine had rejected the ceasefire on infrastructure previously agreed to by President Trump and President Putin. It has continued attacks on Russian oil refineries and other energy facilities with drones and missiles. They have so far done too little damage to slow down the Russian economy. Russia has responded to those strikes by launching thousands of drones and missile against Ukrainian electricity and heating facilities causing up to 18 hours of blackout per day even in large Ukrainian cities. Another Russian target are railway depots where locomotives are maintained. Hundreds of them have been destroyed in such strikes. The lack of electricity and mass transport have all but stopped large scale production of industrial goods. The economy suffers. Tax income decreases. The corruption scandal around Timor Mindich which is involving friends and cabinet members of President Zelinski government is widening. Each day the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) is leaking more details of the case though any real proof of the actual corruption is still missing. NABU and the whole anti-corruption vertical is a direct control element of the U.S. embassy in Kiev. In a speech held three days before the war in Ukraine started President Putin of Russia described it as such: There is no independent judiciary in Ukraine. The Kiev authorities, at the Wests demand, delegated the priority right to select members of the supreme judicial bodies, the Council of Justice and the High Qualifications Commission of Judges, to international organisations. In addition, the United States directly controls the National Agency on Corruption Prevention, the National Anti-Corruption Bureau, the Specialised Anti-Corruption Prosecutors Office and the High Anti-Corruption Court. All this is done under the noble pretext of invigorating efforts against corruption. All right, but where are the results? Corruption is flourishing like never before. The FBI has a liaison officer within NABU and is directly involved in the current corruption investigation. As for results of corruption investigation there are none. After eleven years of existence the anti corruption vertical has not managed to put even one person into jail: The NABU and SAPO have never given a prison sentence to any influential figure it has accused of corruption. The NABUs 2019 corruption investigation into incumbent president Petro Poroshenko resulted in just as many shocking revelations as the ongoing Myndich-gate, and just as many prison sentences  NONE. The corruption scandal is just an instrument to put pressure on Zelenski. He has rejected to mobilize people under the age of 25 and allowed people under the age of 22 to leave the country. The war hawks in the U.S. and Europe want him to draft the young men and to use them as cannon fodder in their zeal to weaken Russia. Zelenski is being politically neutered. The opposition in the Rada wants a place at the trough. It is demanding the resignation Andrei Yermak, Zelenskis chief of office, and the whole Yermak controlled government under Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko. A national unity government which includes the opposition is supposed to replace them. Parts of Zelenskis Servant of the People party have defected and are now supporting the oppositions demands. Instead of being the center of political action President Zelenski might soon find himself being in a mere ceremonial position. Even bigger movements are in the making. The U.S. is drafting a new plan to end(?) the war in Ukraine. (The Russian side says it has no knowledge of any such plans.) Today Trumps envoy Steven Witkoff was supposed to meet Yermak and Zelenski in Istanbul to discuss the new plans but the meeting has been postponed. Senior Pentagon officials have arrived in Kiev to discuss the military side of the issue: Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and chief of staff Gen. Randy George became the highest-level Trump Pentagon officials to visit Ukraine when they arrived on an unannounced trip this week, as the U.S. moves to find a way to speed the end of the war. Meanwhile Europe is finding out that it can not afford (archived) to pay for the war in Ukraine: Underlying Kyivs coming cash crunch is a fundamental disconnect between Europes undoubtedly sincere desire to support Ukraine and the reality that the UK, France and Germany are facing serious fiscal crises of their own. Promises to support Ukraine are of a piece with European NATO members pledges to commit 5 percent of their GDP to defense spending by the end of the decade  both declarations are, for the most part, unfunded.



The story so far of Europes engagement with Ukraine has been one of big pledges followed by considerably smaller deeds  and that was before Trump took away Uncle Sams billions. Unfortunately for Kyiv, theres little to suggest that Europe has the means or the will to actually provide Ukraine as much as it needs, for as long as it needs. Zelenski, and those who support to continue the war, have lost touch with reality. The Ukrainian army lacks morale, weapons and soldiers. The front is getting breached in several places. The countries vital infrastructure is getting destroyed. There is political upheaval and no money to continue the war. The only sane way out of the chaos is to call Moscow and to agree on its conditions. Comments
Artificially inflated donation deductions are attracting ATO attention. Finance expert warns short-term tax gains could become long-term liabilities for unsuspecting SMEs.

Whats happening: The Australian Taxation Office is warning business owners to avoid an emerging tax scheme involving barter credits, where people artificially inflate deductions for donations to charities.

Why this matters: For cash-strapped SMEs tempted to save money through barter networks, this scheme carries risks that go way beyond tax penalties. Businesses unknowingly involved could suffer damaged reputations if theyre linked to fraud targeting charities.

Australian small businesses struggling with tight cash flow are being warned about a tax scheme that promises big deductions but could deliver criminal investigations instead.

The scheme lets people access barter credits with a face value much bigger than what they actually paid to barter exchanges. Someone might pay a small cash amount to get barter credits worth way more, then donate these credits to a charity and claim a larger tax deduction than they deserve.

How it works

The setup looks straightforward but its potentially fraud. Barter exchanges let participants buy credits at inflated values, which they then donate to charities. The tax deduction they claim is far more than what they actually spent.

While its not unlawful for DGRs to accept barter credits as donations, participating in arrangements where deductions for barter credits are artificially inflated could be fraud and may result in an investigation by the ATO, ATO Deputy Commissioner Erin Dale said.

This scheme is popping up just as SMEs are under pressure to keep cash flowing through tough economic times. But the temporary relief from inflated deductions comes with serious strings attached.

The real cost

Businesses caught up in this may have to pay back the tax, plus cop heavy penalties, interest, and possible legal action. Under promoter penalty laws, the ATO can slam heavy civil penalties on anyone promoting dodgy tax schemes.

The warning applies even when schemes are pushed by financial advisers or tax agents. Dale stressed that if something sounds too good to be true, it probably is, and business owners need to be careful when looking at any deal promising major tax cuts or avoidance.

For SMEs already juggling complex tax compliance rules, the scheme is a dangerous shortcut. Those who come forward to the ATO on their own might get reduced penalties.

Your reputation matters

Beyond taking money from the community, the scheme is undermining public trust in charities with tax deductible status. The charities receiving these donations might not even know theyre caught up in a tax scheme.

For small businesses, reputation damage from being linked to fraud targeting charities could cost more than the financial penalties. Customer perception can change fast when businesses are connected to schemes exploiting charitable organisations.

This risk hits hard as compliance becomes part of protecting your brand. Businesses that stick to legitimate tax strategies over questionable schemes protect both their money and their market reputation.

What to do

Business owners whove been offered a scheme they think is dodgy should reject it and report it to the ATO. Reports can be made confidentially by calling 1800 060 062 or filling out a tip-off form.

For those already involved, act fast. If you think youre involved in an unlawful tax scheme, we can help you. If you proactively approach us, you may be eligible for a reduction in penalties, Dale said.

The ATO lists examples of dodgy tax schemes on its website, giving business owners the tools to spot problematic deals before jumping in.

As money pressures keep building, the temptation to chase aggressive tax strategies wont go away. But the line between legitimate deductions and fraud is clear, and crossing it brings consequences that reach far beyond the tax office.

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Investment strategist Nigel Green explains why this week marks AIs defining moment, as investors separate companies delivering returns from those relying on promises.

Whats happening: AI and technology markets are undergoing a global reset as investors confront the limits of a two-year rally built on optimism rather than proven returns.

Why this matters: Companies demonstrating control over AI investment whilst enhancing margins will lead the next phase, whilst those relying on long-dated promises face swift market punishment.

A fundamental shift is unfolding across global AI and technology markets as investors move beyond enthusiasm towards rigorous scrutiny of returns.

The warning from Nigel Green, chief executive of deVere Group, follows significant market volatility, with the Nikkei sliding 3% and major US benchmarks closing firmly lower, signalling that optimism alone cannot support valuations dependent on flawless execution.

AI has been the engine of global markets for two years, but the phase of unchecked optimism is giving way to a sharper focus on resilience, Green says.

Investors want proof that spending translates into dependable earnings growth. The companies that deliver that clarity will lead the next stage.

The markets repricing reflects concerns building throughout the latest earnings cycle. Tech giants produced divergent results, underscoring the sectors split between firms converting AI infrastructure into immediate returns and those relying on longer-dated promises.

Alphabet and Amazon strengthened their reputations as disciplined operators, whilst Meta and Microsoft encountered swift pushback as higher capital commitments unsettled shareholders.

Market discipline returns

Nvidia will report its fiscal third-quarter earnings after the bell on Wednesday, 19 November, with analysts anticipating adjusted earnings per share of $1.26 on revenue of $55.2 billion, representing year-on-year increases of 55% and 57% respectively.

The AI chip manufacturers report arrives at a precarious moment. The companys market capitalisation briefly eclipsed $5 trillion last month, pushing valuations into territory where any deviation could alter sentiment rapidly.

Investors are assessing strategy in real time, the deVere CEO says.

Theyre rewarding companies that show control over investment and demonstrate that AI adoption is enhancing margins. The market is far less forgiving when spending outpaces revenue potential.

The broader investment landscape reflects this shift. Whilst AI sector funding approached 2024s full-year total within the first six months of 2025, scrutiny has intensified around business models and paths to profitability.

Nvidias crucial test

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang revealed in October that his company has $500 billion in orders, in 2025 and 2026 combined, a figure that suggests meaningfully higher revenue than previously expected.

However, expectations have pushed the valuation into extraordinary territory. The companys Blackwell platform, sovereign AI contracts and the pace of hyperscaler demand will influence how investors judge AI spending durability through next year.

The bar set for Nvidia is extraordinary, Green notes.

The reaction will not hinge on scale alone. Investors want to see whether profitability is expanding in line with investment. This is the benchmark for the entire AI complex.

Options traders expect a 6% to 8% move in Nvidia stock immediately after the results are announced, reflecting the significance markets attach to the report.

Policy reshapes strategy

Policy shifts under President Donald Trump add another layer of scrutiny. Washingtons export controls continue to reshape access to advanced computing in China, whilst domestic priorities around supply-chain security and technological self-sufficiency influence capital-allocation strategies across the industry.

These dynamics make Nvidias forward guidance especially significant, as it will shape expectations for global AI investment through 2026.

The policy environment is evolving quickly, Green says.

Companies operating at the core of advanced computing must show how they adapt. Investors will study every signal that reveals how firms intend to align growth plans with geopolitical realities.

The recent rout in global equities reveals how sensitive markets have become to any sign of overstretch. Wall Streets pullback, led by renewed pressure on AI-linked names, highlights the fragility beneath headline gains.

Green emphasises that discipline will shape outcomes next year. AI remains transformational, but the market is changing fast. Selectivity has moved from advantage to necessity, he says.

Investors who understand the distinction between scale and sustainable returns will be best-positioned for the opportunities emerging on the other side of this adjustment.

The investment environment for AI and technology companies continues to evolve as businesses balance innovation with proven returns, marking a maturation phase for the sector after two years of unprecedented growth.

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The paradox of US military retrenchment in the Asia-Pacific

A partial retreat in the region could backfire, flaming tensions and emboldening Chinas aggression.

As the prospect of a US-China military conflict hangs over the Asia-Pacific region, some analysts call for the American military to pull back. These include Jennifer Kavanagh, who advocated this position in The Interpreter last month. While not without its merits, this idea has some problems.

Immediately at issue is where to delineate the new US defense perimeter. A complete abandonment of US forward deployment in the Asia-Pacific region  no more US bases, alliances, or freedom of navigation patrols  would remove the single greatest obstacle to PRC expansionism, inviting increased Chinese bullying and likely raising the risk of multiple military conflicts breaking out due to Chinas many disputes with its regional neighbors.

Hence the idea of a partial US retrenchment. Potential questions arise, however, no matter how the line is re-drawn. Kavanaghs particular approach has the United States abandoning its security assistance to Taiwan and ending its alliances and basing arrangements with South Korea and Australia (they would manage their own defense). She advocates, however, that the United States continue to maintain military bases in Japan and the Philippines.

Leaving liberal democracy Taiwan alone to face forcible annexation by its much larger authoritarian neighbor would be a political tragedy  Hong Kong times ten, and also an outrage against the principle of self-determination  as well as a strategic setback for the region. Despite other Asian governments officially adopting the one China policy at Beijings insistence, they would be alarmed to see China violently subduing a neighbor. As new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently expressed (eliciting a vicious Chinese response), Japan in particular would perceive its security as greatly diminished if Beijing controlled Taiwan.

Calling for weakened US security cooperation with South Korea and Australia to mollify China makes little sense. The American military presence in South Korea poses little threat to China. This presence has a separate primary rationale, which is deterring an attack on the South by hostile neighbor North Korea. Consisting mostly of ground forces, they would have little usefulness in a Taiwan Strait scenario.

Similarly, there is no legitimate reason for Beijing to see a strong US-Australia defense relationship as threatening to any PRC strategic interest other than possible Chinese hopes of establishing a sphere of influence in the South Pacific. Australia is very far from even the shakiest Chinese territorial claims. On the other hand, the Chinese intentions implied by efforts to secure a naval base in the area and the recent brusque PLA Navy exercise in the Tasman Sea amply justify Canberras desire for a defense partnership with the United States to offset Beijings power projection potential.

At the same time, however, Kavanagh would leave US forces in select strategic locations in the Philippines. If the goal is to pull back US forces so that China feels more comfortable, this is a glaring inconsistency. The United States recently deployed advanced US anti-ship missile batteries in strategic locations in northern Luzon that could target Chinese warships menacing either the Philippines or Taiwan. The PRC government called the missile deployment provocative and dangerous. More generally, keeping the Philippines within the re-drawn US defence perimeter ensures that the South China Sea remains a US-China flashpoint. Some analysts have argued a war is more likely to break out there than in the Taiwan Strait.

Advocates of retrenchment also argue that the US military buildup in the western Pacific is making war more likely. Kavanagh specifies that efforts to increase the US military presence along the first island chain may be contributing to growing tensions and instability in the Western Pacific.

This framing overlooks the PRC actions to which the United States has been reacting, including a rapid and massive buildup of Chinas armed forces in the absence of any visible military threat to China; and increasingly aggressive Chinese attempts to unilaterally enforce expansive, often unlawful and in some cases growing territorial claims across wide swaths of Chinas periphery.

The call for a removal of US hard power from the region assumes the PRC would be less aggressive as a result. That is far from certain. With its near-paranoid one-party dictatorship and deep sense of both entitlement and historical grievance, China arguably fits the criteria of what international relations theorists call greedy states, which expand due to domestic political pathology or lack of institutional restraint rather than actual security fears.

Kavanagh and others argue that America could yield some ground and still deny China hegemony over the Asia-Pacific. A better goal is to limit Chinas ability to force its strategic, economic and political agenda upon its regional neighbours wherever possible  especially where friendly countries are willing to do more for themselves to ease the burden on America. Seoul has committed to raising its defence spending to 3.5% of GDP; Taipei has pledged 5%.

US security policy in the Asia-Pacific is certainly not above reproach. Right-sizing it, however, should be maximally thoughtful, weighing whether cutting off friends and partners is likely to achieve the target objectives rather than simply emboldening more aggressive behaviour from China. Unfortunately, some degree of persistent tension may be the price of holding off PRC domination.

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The silent war

Pyongyangs cyberattacks reach civilians while Seoul remains unready, complacent

The Korean Herald Editorial

It began with a flicker on a smartphone screen. A counselor for North Korean defectors found her device suddenly wiped clean, her contacts hijacked and a fake stress relief program sent to friends through her account.

Days later, an activists phone met the same fate. Both had unknowingly become pawns in North Koreas newest front: a conflict fought not with missiles or tanks, but with malware.

These attacks marked a disturbing evolution. The hackers were traced to Konni, a network tied to Kimsuky and other North Korean cyber units. They were not merely stealing data. They remotely controlled smartphones and personal computers, activating webcams and microphones to spy on their targets.

This was not espionage confined to government agencies or corporations, but surveillance intruding into private life. The virtual battlefield breached South Koreans living rooms.

For Pyongyang, cyberwarfare has become an asymmetric weapon as vital as its nuclear and missile programs. With international sanctions strangling its finances, hacking now doubles as an economic lifeline. The UN estimates that North Korean groups have stolen about $3 billion in cryptocurrency, funding everything from weapons development to regime survival.

But beyond money, the regimes cyber strategy seeks to sow anxiety and distrust  a psychological offensive against a society it cannot conquer by force.

Artificial intelligence is rapidly amplifying that threat. Combined with human intelligence and social engineering, North Korea-linked groups now exploit deepfakes and AI-generated personas to infiltrate job networks and military systems abroad. As AI continues to evolve, so will the sophistication of Pyongyangs intrusions.

South Korea, meanwhile, remains dangerously complacent. Despite decades on the front line of one of the worlds most enduring conflicts, South Koreas cybersecurity posture remains fragmented and reactive.

Last month, the government acknowledged a massive breach of its core administrative network, the On-nara system, only after hackers had penetrated it, undetected, for nearly three years. When a US cybersecurity outlet exposed breaches of central ministries and telecom firms, officials confirmed the report two months later.

This pattern of denial and delay reveals a deeper institutional flaw. Responsibility for cyber defense is scattered among the National Intelligence Service, Ministry of National Defense, Ministry of Science and ICT and police. None of these agencies wield decisive authority. They defend institutional turf while North Korean hackers move swiftly across digital borders that bureaucrats cannot see. Critics argue that a centralized national cybersecurity command is long overdue.

Even as the threat escalates, resources are shrinking. Next years government budget for hacking countermeasures has been cut by 34 percent. Nearly half of South Korean companies have no cybersecurity budget at all, and most that do spend less than 5 million won ($3,400). Many still treat digital security as a discretionary expense rather than an existential necessity.

The cost of inaction reaches far beyond the IT sector. Attacks on telecom providers, card issuers and data firms have already shaken consumer confidence and disrupted markets. A successful strike on power grids or financial systems could paralyze the country.

The question is no longer whether North Korea can do it, but when, and whether South Korea will be ready when it happens.

The era when Pyongyangs hackers merely stole information is over. They now seek to erase data, monitor civilians and destabilize society itself. Defending against that threat requires more than technical fixes. It calls for political will, institutional coherence and sustained investment to treat cyberspace as a critical frontier of national security.

A war without sound is still a war. South Korea cannot afford to remain cyber-defenseless. It must act now, before Pyongyang turns todays silence into tomorrows blackout.

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Chinese national arrested in Guam for Saipan immigration fraud case

A Chinese national indicted in Saipan for conspiracy to transport illegal aliens and defraud the United States was arrested in Guam, according to federal court documents

Zhaoxiang Cui was taken into custody on Nov. 12. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Bordallo of the District Court of Guam issued a writ of removal, ordering U.S. Marshals to transfer Cui to Saipan.

The District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands has not yet scheduled Cuis initial appearance.

According to the indictment filed in December 2024, Cui and co-defendants Kangle Jiang, Lianmin Song, Fengguo Fan, and Xiaoguang Wang allegedly conspired to transport undocumented individuals from Saipan to Guam with the intent that they would reside there lawfully, despite knowing the individuals were illegally present in the United States.

The indictment also alleges the group conspired to defraud the United States between December 2024 and Dec. 9, 2024, in violation of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 371.

In January 2025, Fan and Song were convicted and sentenced to time served, one year of supervised release, 50 hours of community service, and a $200 assessment fee. Jiang received the same sentence in February.

As of press time Tuesday, there is no court information available regarding Wang.

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Far From Ordinary: Students discover the Marianas new global brand

Marianas Visitors Authority (MVA) Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda introduces students at San Vicente Elementary School to the new Marianas global brand Far From Ordinary on Nov. 12, 2025, in Saipan, Marianas. The MVA and Marianas Tourism Education Council conduct annual school educational outreach to engage students as stakeholders in The Marianas tourism industry. Students at Daok Academy learn about the Marianas tourism industry and their role in it on Nov. 12, 2025, at their school in Saipan, Marianas. Marianas Visitors Authority Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda, fifth right, and Marianas Tourism Education Council Board Member Catherine Perry, seventh right, conducted the outreach.

(MTEC)  Students are having the opportunity to learn about the new Far From Ordinary Marianas global brand in school outreach presentations led by the Marianas Tourism Education Council (MTEC) and the Marianas Visitors Authority. Representatives of MTEC and the MVA visited students of San Vicente Elementary School and Daok Academy yesterday (Nov. 12) to acquaint the young people with the purpose and meaning of the brand and ways they can support the tourism industry. The annual outreach initiative focuses on engaging 5th, 7th, and 10th grade students with interactive presentations and activities that spotlight tourism as The Marianas leading economic driver, the industrys impact on daily life, and how youth can contribute to its success, even at a young age. The MTEC program, in collaboration with Marianas Visitors Authority, has its work cut out for them with the rebranding and constant outreach, most especially with our youth. They are heading in the right direction, said Daok Academy teacher and MYWAVE Club Advisor Florence S. Calvo. I really look forward to more collaboration in the future to ensure our students are educated on how they are directly affected by tourism. It truly is that tourism is everyones business. The Far From Ordinary brand highlights the distinct features of the destination based on six pillars: culture, diversity, sustainability, adventure, and history. MVA Community Projects Coordinator Jack Aranda pointed out to students how the new Marianas logo incorporates the latte stone representing Chamorro people, the canoe sail representing the Carolinian people, and the 14 islands of the destination. The presentations also included an overview of the MVA and its duties and responsibilities as a state tourism office in marketing, community events, product development, and more. MTEC and MVA will continue their presentations over the next several months across Saipan, Tinian, and Rota. MTEC is a nonprofit organization whose mission is threefold: to foster community understanding and support of the visitor industry; to educate the public, especially school students, about the value, social benefits, and economic contributions made to the community by the visitor industry; and to instill, improve, and promote the Hafa Adai-Tirow hospitality spirit throughout the island community. Schools interested in launching a MY WAVE Club to promote tourism awareness and youth engagement may contact MVA Community Projects Specialist Jack Aranda at jaranda@mymarianas.com or 1.670.664.3200.

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Governor seeks public input on offshore mineral leasing

(Office of the Governor)  Governor David M. Apatang announces that the Bureau of Ocean Energy Management (BOEM), under the U.S. Department of the Interior, has published, in the Federal Register, a Request for Information and Interest (RFI) as the first step in a process that could potentially lead to a lease sale for minerals on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) offshore the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI).

The Governor emphasizes the importance of public participation in this process, noting that community engagement will ensure that the voices and interests of the people of the CNMI are heard and considered in any future federal actions regarding seabed mineral exploration or development.

This is a matter of great significance to the Commonwealth, said Governor Apatang. We encourage everyonecitizens, community organizations, traditional leaders, and government agenciesto review the information carefully and provide thoughtful comments. Our collective input will help guide how these discussions move forward and ensure that the interests of the CNMI are protected.

BOEM must receive all comments, information, and indications of interest in response to this RFI no later than December 12, 2025.

Members of the public may submit their comments through the following methods:

Federal eRulemaking Portal:

Visit www.regulations.gov.

In the search box at the top of the webpage, enter BOEM-2025-0351, then click Search. Follow the online instructions to submit public comments and view supporting and related materials.

By Mail:

Bureau of Ocean Energy Management

Pacific Region, Office of Strategic Resources

760 Paseo Camarillo (CM 102)

Camarillo, California 93010

Governor Apatang reiterated that the CNMI welcomes dialogue that promotes sustainable development and environmental stewardship. Our Administration remains committed to transparency, scientific understanding, and community involvement in all discussions related to our ocean resources, the Governor said.

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Inmate files claim over missing necklace, documents in jail

Federal inmate Bing Li has filed a motion in the District Court for the Northern Mariana Islands seeking compensatory damages for personal property allegedly lost or destroyed while in the custody of the CNMI Department of Corrections.

Li, a Chinese national representing himself, claims CNMI DOC officials seized and never returned a family heirloom necklace, a photograph of his wife, and legal documents.

In his motion, filed under Federal Rule of Criminal Procedure 41(g), Li argues that the government acknowledged the items were either lost or disposed of, but failed to notify his designated contact or provide a translator to assist with the recovery process.

Court filings show Li left instructionsincluding his wifes name and contact number in English and Chinesefor the return of his belongings.

He asserts that his wife was never contacted and that a corrections officer had indicated the items would be held for him throughout his incarceration.

No one articulated to defendant that property left unclaimed would be disposed of, the motion states, adding that Li requested the return of his property upon transfer from CNMI DOC custody but was denied without explanation.

Li, who speaks limited English, said that the language barrier contributed to the mishandling of his property and that no steps were taken to provide translation assistance. He is seeking $2,500 for the heirloom necklace, $50 for the photograph, and $50 for the legal documents.

Li was sentenced in 2023 to 51 months in prison for receiving 1,084 grams (2.13 pounds) of methamphetamine by mail. He pleaded guilty on March 17, 2023, to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

In a previous response to Lis request, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands stated that the items were discarded under CNMI DOC procedures.

The court has not yet ruled on the motion.

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BERLIN, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Germany and Sweden on Tuesday signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to intensify their bilateral defence partnership.

According to the German defense ministry's statement, the agreement was signed by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius and his Swedish counterpart Pal Jonson during the ongoing Berlin Security Conference.

The MoU establishes a framework for deeper cooperation in joint military training, procurement of modern technologies, and enhancing interoperability between their armed forces, the statement said.

Editor: Xiong Jian
Rivera-Brownstein crowned the first Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas

King-Hinds is named Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas Top Model

By Emmanuel Erediano

emmanuel@mvariety.com

Variety News Staff

Anne Rivera-Brownstein reacts after being crowned the first Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas 2025 during the coronation night at the Marianas Beach Resort Ballroom on Saturday. Also in photo are Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas President Bench Legaspi, right, Miss Hemisphere 2019 Rupa Hemlani, left and Miss Earth Northern Marianas 2019 Leisha Deleon Guerrero. Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas 2025 Top Model Sydney Camille King Hinds is joined by panel members Northern Marianas College Board of Regents member Janice Ada Tenorio, center; Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas Vice President Joann Aquino, right, and Jasmine Johanson. The nine Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas in their swimsuit.

The inaugural Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas crowned its first queen, Anne Rivera-Brownstein.

In a glittering ceremony held at the Marianas Beach Resorts ballroom, the 26-year-old mother, who came to Saipan as an immigrant to support her family in the Philippines, was crowned.

Last Saturday evening, before the community that embraced her, Rivera-Brownstein was crowned winner of the Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas 2025 inaugural edition.

She will represent the CNMI at the Miss Asia-Pacific International pageant in the Philippines next year.

The staging of the Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas was promoted as a celebration of women empowerment and diversity.

Rivera-Brownstein took home $2,000 cash, along with the title sash and bouquet of flowers.

On stage, she exuded confidence and poise with her evening gown, gliding effortlessly under the spotlight and winning the Best in Evening Gown category. Her evening own was designed by Venus Grenio.

Rivera-Brownstein represented Navy Hill.

She also won the Best Swimsuit and the Best in Talent awards, performing a ballet dance during the pre-pageant event at the Grandvrio Resort on Nov. 13.

When called to be one of the Top 5 finalists, Rivera-Brownstein was honestly just happy and excited to have such an opportunity to win the beauty pageants inaugural title.

In a world today when people are facing many challenges, Rivera-Brownstein said, I will inspire the youth by sharing her story. She hopes to encourage them to believe in themselves and serve as a positive example.

She expressed gratitude to Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas for allowing her to show that women, regardless of circumstances, can soar as long as they believe in themselves.

Top Model Winner

Sydney Camille King Hinds was crowned Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas Top Model and will represent the CNMI at the Miss Asia-Pacific International Top Model competition in Australia next year.

She also won the Social Media award.

King-Hinds represented San Jose village of Tinian,

Along with the title sash, Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas Top Model crown and a bouquet of flower, King Hinds also brought home a cash price of $1,000.

Thank you for supporting me first of all, the Top Model winner said, in thanking her supporters. She urged young women to be who you are for the CNMI and represent who we are because we are strong. We are the CNMI.

She danced and sang her own interpretation of the Dream by Fleetwood Mac during the pre-pageant competition.

She believes that the greatest responsibility of todays youth will be to uphold what everybody else before you has done. Women, she said, should always shine through no matter what. If you just show everybody you are courageous and strong, and who you are, you will shine through, she said.

In her evening gown, she captivated the audience with her radiant elegance, embodying sophistication, perfectly complementing her confidence and graceful presence on stage.

Local talent Bernice Shane Sabino, known for her golden voice, won first runner-up, receiving a crown, title sash, bouquet of flowers, and $800 in cash. She did not expect to reach the Top 5 but expressed gratitude to everyone who supported her, especially her family.

She believes the best example for todays youth is to lead peers with compassion and kindness. She said Miss Asia-Pacific is a great opportunity to demonstrate these values, because I know the world is brighter when everyone smiles.

Tiffany Rose Velasco Libreja won the Second Runner-Up crown and Miss Congeniality award, receiving $600, while Third Runner-Up Haillerine Fernandez received $500.

Dharlee Bielle Marquez won the Peoples Choice and Miss Photogenic awards.

The other Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas candidates, Ma. Analine Barcelo, Chiaralei Mendoza and Donna Rose Santiago, received certificates of appreciation in recognition for their invaluable participation and contribution to the success of Miss Asia-Pacific Northern Marianas 2025 Coronation. Their dedication and support helped make the celebration of beauty, culture and empowerment truly memorable.

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SSHS Manta Ray cadets assist in Veterans Day ceremony

On November 11, Veterans Day honors the brave men and women who have served and are still serving in our countrys military.

This years ceremony was held at American Memorial Park on Tuesday from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. 25 Cadets, along with their Senior Army Instructor, CSM (Ret.) Richard Basa from Saipan Southern High Schools Manta Ray Battalion arrived at around 8:30 a.m. to help prepare for the event, setting up chairs and distributing programs and water bottles to guests.

Before the ceremony began, the Manta Ray Battalion Color Guard presented the colors and later retired them at the end of the event. C/CPT Socorro, Jonah, served as the right guard, C/LTC Saluta, Jolash, carried the U.S. flag, C/CPT Joaquin, Johncel, held the CNMI flag, and C/CPT Federizo, Eithan, was the left guard.

C/MAJ Baculod, Miyiel, and C/CPT Beltran, Sherlyn joined Gov. David M. Apatang, U.S. Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds, Saipan Mayor Ramon B. Camacho, veterans, and community members in laying the wreath.

As the wreath was laid, a 21-gun salute was fired and the tap was played.

The Manta Ray Battalion cadets were glad that they had the opportunity to assist the community while also honoring our past and present veterans and their families on their special day.

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Symbol of Resilience: Saipans new commuter terminal creates new hopes, opportunities

Rota and Tinian terminals also undergoing upgrades

Commonwealth Ports Authority Board Vice Chairman Antonio B. Cabrera and Executive Director Esther Ada both described the newly reopened Saipan commuter terminal as a symbol of the governments commitment to the islanders quality of life and a testament to community resilience.

Cabrera and Ada joined Gov. David M. Apatang and other NMI officials in highlighting the modern facility, which will finally provide inter-island travelers the comfort and convenience they deserve while waiting for flights to Tinian and Rota.

This building represents more than just a structure. It symbolizes our commitment to enhancing the quality of life for the people of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota, as well as visitors from abroad, Cabrera said. This new facility demonstrates our dedication to building a better future for our community, and we are proud to take this significant step forward.

The Saipan commuter terminal will play a critical role in strengthening inter-island connectivity between the CNMI and Guam.

It is a vital link in our air travel networkone that will promote economic growth, Cabrera added. He praised the dedication and perseverance of CPA staff, management, and all stakeholders involved.

In her remarks, CPA Executive Director Ada reflected on what the ribbon-cutting ceremony truly represented. She recalled the destruction caused by Super Typhoon Yutu, which left CPA facing a difficult choice: restore what remained of the old terminal or build something entirely new.

Through challenges, setbacks, and numerous obstacles, Ada said, the decision to rebuild the terminal from the ground up has brought us to this momentthe opening of a stronger terminal, better prepared for the future.

Ada said the facility is more than just a building. It stands as a symbol of resilience and communityhelping families stay connected, supporting businesses, and welcoming travelers to the islands. The terminal also enhances regional access, including alternative routes to Guam.

It creates new hope and opportunities for the Marianas, Ada remarked proudly.

She thanked CPAs airline partners for their unwavering support, and the CPA board, staff, and management for their tireless efforts, especially in the final weeks leading up to the ribbon-cutting ceremony.

This project demanded dedication, long hours, and teamwork. Your hard work made this achievement possible. Let us continue to care for this facility with pride, ensuring it remains a vital connection between our islands for generations to come. And to the people of the Marianas, thank you for being here, Ada said.

Saipan Chamber of Commerce President Joe Guerrero described the facility as beautiful, noting in particular the local artworks adorning the walls.

This is something the entire CNMI community can be proud of, he said.

Guerrero said Saipans new commuter terminal will change the inter-island travel experience, adding that the Rota and Tinian terminals are also undergoing upgrades.

With all these upgrades underway, Guerrero added,  it is a symbolic renewal of our airport spaces.

Micronesian Air Connection Services owner John Stewart said the completion of the new terminal was a long time coming, adding, we welcome it. He said MAC has supported CPA through many challenges.

As the company grows, he said, it will continue to develop alongside the upgraded facility.

Star Marianas President Shaun Christian said it was exciting to witness the terminals opening. I think the customer experience is going to be so much better than it has been, and we are looking forward to starting operations, he said.

Excited

The mayors of Saipan, Tinian, and Rota shared their excitement on behalf of their constituents who frequently travel between islands.

Tinian Mayor Edwin P. Aldan said, Now, well have customers who dont have to hide from the rain or the heat of the sun.

He said the new terminal will provide tourists and residents of Tinian and Rota with a sense of security and convenience.

Rota Mayor Aubry Hocog congratulated CPA and all who contributed to the project. She thanked Gov. David M. Apatang, Lt. Gov. Dennis James Mendiola, the CPA board, and municipal leaders for a great step moving forward.

This is one way to really showcase the upgraded port facility. It is also a great way to welcome local residents traveling inter-island. We are absolutely thrilled. We will also do our part on Rota so that when we receive visitors from Saipan, we can offer the same quality, she said.

Saipan Mayor Ramon Blas RB Camacho said that whenever he travels to Tinian and Rota, he wouldnt mind even a two-hour delay because of the convenience and amenities of the new commuter terminal.

I dont mind a two-hour layover, he said. We now have this up-to-par building for our tourists and our local residents who travel. Its very convenient. Lets look forward and bring more tourists.

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The PMs wish and our promise

(PACNEWS)  They say the march toward authoritarian rule begins with one simple act: taking control of the narrative and silencing the independent press. Monday, Samoa witnessed a step in that direction.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Schmidt, elected by the people to serve them, has already moved to weaken one of democracys most essential pillars. With barely seven full days in office, he directed his power at the Samoa Observer, the very institution tasked with holding leaders like him to account.

The Prime Minister accused this newspaper of misleading and inaccurate reporting, of disrespect and of having no boundaries. He went further by invoking the name of Sano Malifa, founder and owner of the Samoa Observer, suggesting that the paper had strayed from its mission, a statement hes made countless times.

So let us clear the air.

Does the Prime Minister remember Sano Malifas reporting when, as Deputy Speaker, he gave a second hand car from his dealership to then Speaker of the House, Tolofuaivalelei Falemoe Leiataua, without Cabinet approval. It was Sano Malifa who wrote extensively about the matter and helped ensure the vehicle was returned when questions were raised about improper dealings.

Does he remember the concrete wall fence he attempted to build stretching toward Parliament, a plan never sanctioned by Cabinet.

Does he remember calling the Samoa Observer before the 2021 general elections seeking permission to erect FAST party tents outside its offices and being refused, because this newspaper does not trade favors for political convenience.

Does he forget that Sano Malifa stood alone to question the one party rule of the HRPP, a party he joined and one his father served in, while most of the country remained silent because they felt they could not speak.

Does he forget that the Sano Malifa he now quotes would never permit any leader to run the country unchecked.

Let this be understood. Sano Malifas vision remains fully intact. It demands scrutiny of whoever occupies the Prime Ministers chair, even if that chair is fake. It demands accountability, regardless of who holds power.

It is intact in the way this newspaper was the only media organization to question the Prime Ministers meetings with foreign leaders while he sat on his famous chair, despite the warnings of his own advisers.

It is intact in ensuring the public knew their new leader had been quietly flown out on a private plane for medical treatment, while sick patients in an overcrowded and underfunded hospital struggled without food because of unpaid wages for kitchen staff, even as its minister announced plans for a new hospital.

It is intact in the story of a father whose pleas for justice went unanswered after his son was badly beaten and fell into a coma, until the Samoa Observer published his account and police were finally forced to act.

It is intact in the simple reporting of rubbish piling up near homes, which was cleared by the government the very next morning.

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Tinians Divert Airfield: Americas strategic backup in the Pacific

As seen in these photos taken from the air, the ongoing construction of the Tinian airport divert field will be used to support training and exercises including tanker operations and to improve regional humanitarian assistance, disaster responses, and overall air base resilience under the U.S. Agile Combat Employment concept. (Photos by Ulysses Torres Sabuco) As seen in these photos taken from the air, the ongoing construction of the Tinian airport divert field will be used to support training and exercises including tanker operations and to improve regional humanitarian assistance, disaster responses, and overall air base resilience under the U.S. Agile Combat Employment concept. (Photos by Ulysses Torres Sabuco) As seen in these photos taken from the air, the ongoing construction of the Tinian airport divert field will be used to support training and exercises including tanker operations and to improve regional humanitarian assistance, disaster responses, and overall air base resilience under the U.S. Agile Combat Employment concept. (Photos by Ulysses Torres Sabuco)

(Above Tinian)  From aboard Star Mariana Airs brief commercial flight on a Piper Cherokee, the enormity of Americas alternate airfield and logistics node on Tinian comes into a sharp focus. About 125 miles north of Andersen Air Force Base, Guam, this colossal development is a first for the small Northern Mariana Islands municipality.

This undertaking is remarking the landscape at an unprecedented pace.

From the air, the construction paints a dramatic streak of brown against the lush green below. In the distance, the separate, half-a-billion-dollar North Field rehabilitation project stands out. Launched in 2024 and slated for completion in 2027, it targets two of four runways ready by that date.

But the centerpiece is the Tinian Divert Airfield, which dwarfs even the main runway of Tinian International Airport situated next to it. The new airfield is designed to significantly expand U.S. military capacity for training, disaster response, and operational support. Officials describe it as a crucial additionoffering more options to sustain training, ramp up humanitarian efforts, and guarantee readiness if access to Andersen Air Force Base or other Western Pacific installations is compromised.

Tinians role in military history is unmistakable. The island once served as a vital World War II base and was the Manhattan Projects launching point for the Hiroshima and Nagasaki missions. Over 80 years later, Tinian reclaims a strategic spotlightits relevance revived as a training hub and a cornerstone for the emerging network of divert airfields.

The divert airfield is now targeted for completion next year. Once operational, the upgraded North Field will give U.S. expeditionary forces the agility to maneuver throughout the Pacificespecially amid growing regional tension over Chinas increased activity.

We can move forces there, train there, practice and work with allies, said Rear Adm. Gregory Huffman, former Commander of Joint Task ForceMicronesia, in an interview with Kyodo News

. That builds up readiness, operational efficiency, and increases lethalityadding to a deterrence effect by showing our ability to counter any malign or nefarious activity.

Tinian sits just south of Saipan and spans roughly 101 square kilometers, approximately 2,400 kilometers south of Japan. The U.S. currently leases two-thirds of its land. Ground was broken on the project three years ago, and construction has unfolded in two phases: The first, with an initial cost above $160 million, faced pandemic-related delays, shifting its targeted completion from October 2025 to 2026. The second phase now carries a $200 million price tag.

Under the plan, Tinian International Airport will gain the infrastructure to accommodate cargo and tanker aircraft and their support crews, cementing its place as a diversion hub for military exercises throughout the Western Pacific.

On December 7, 2016, the U.S. Air Force signed a Record of Decision designating Tinians North Option as the official site for the Pacific Air Forces Divert Activities and Exercise Initiative. That decisionfive miles across the Saipan Channelwas made following a thorough review required by the Divert Activities and Exercises CNMI Final Environmental Impact Statement.

After careful consideration, a Record of Decision was signedsolidifying the Air Forces selection of Tinian, North Option, as the location for this initiative, said Richard K. Hartley, then

Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for Installations, Environment, and Energy. We worked closely with the people of the CNMI throughout this process and are grateful for their support.

Tinian edged out sites in Saipan, Rota, and Guam to become the preferred alternative.

Tinians location and role as a divert airfield will prove extremely important if access to Andersen Air Force Base or other Western Pacific airfields is limited or unavailable due to a contingency or natural disaster, commented Brig. Gen. Craig Wills, U.S. Pacific Air Forces Director of Strategy, Plans, and Programs. This decision is an important step in enhancing joint capabilities for U.S. Pacific Command.

The airports expansion comes as tensions rise in the Asia-Pacific, with the U.S. military quietly reinforcing its presence in response to Chinese assertiveness. Once complete, Tinians airfield is set to serve expanded training, tanker operations, regional disaster response, and robust base resilience under the U.S. Agile Combat Employment concept, according to military officials..

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Korean travel to Southeast Asia takes a hit amid Cambodia trafficking crisis

South Korean police escort 64 nationals repatriated from Cambodia at Incheon Airport on Oct. 18. The group is accused of participating in cross-border scam networks run out of compounds where many were reportedly held against their will and forced to target fellow Koreans through voice phishing and fake investment scams. (Joint Press Corps)

October departures from Korea to Southeast Asia dropped 7.25 percent overall, with Cambodia down 15.4 percent

(The Korean Herald)  Korean travelers are pulling back from Southeast Asia amid growing reports of scams and kidnappings in Cambodia.

In October, the number of travelers flying from South Korea to Southeast Asian countries dropped sharply, with Cambodia seeing the steepest fall. According to passenger statistics released Sunday by Incheon International Airport Corporation, departures to Southeast Asia declined by 7.25 percent from the previous month (to 784,962 travelers).

Cambodia alone saw a 15.4 percent drop, from 13,727 in September to 11,613 in October.

The sudden pullback follows a wave of disturbing reports last month exposing how young Koreans lured by false job offers  mostly in tech or digital marketing  were trafficked into scam compounds in Cambodias loosely regulated special economic zones. Once there, victims were allegedly detained, forced to operate online fraud schemes, and in some cases subjected to violence or sold to other groups.

The impact is spilling beyond Cambodia. The Philippines and Thailand also saw fewer Korean visitors in October, with departures down 18.9 percent (to 120,175) and 5 percent (to 157,402) respectively. These figures stand out particularly because overall international passenger traffic at Incheon Airport actually rose 3.1 percent that month, reaching more than 6.39 million.

Travel agencies are already seeing shifts in consumer behavior. This isnt just about group tours being cancelled, a travel industry official told local media. Were seeing a clear drop in demand from individual travelers, especially business and solo leisure travelers. Thats likely to spread to package tour groups by the end of the year.

Public perception appears to be shifting rapidly. In a Realmeter poll conducted on Oct. 21, 82.4 percent of Korean respondents said recent crimes in Cambodia had influenced their view of travel to Southeast Asia. Among people in their 20s, that figure rose to 88.3 percent.

The same survey found that 56 percent believed South Koreas Foreign Ministry had mishandled the initial response to the crisis.

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A frustrating role reversal is undermining America

As China reaches out, Asia shows signs of leaving the United States behind.

Chinas President Xi Jinping shakes hands with his South Korean counterpart after taking a group photo during the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit on Nov. 1. (Yonhap News Agency/Reuters)

The Washington Post Editorial Board

At the end of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit last weekend, one image stood out. There was Chinese President Xi Jinping at center stage, smiling serenely and confidently, surrounded by the leaders of more than a dozen nations. Noticeably absent was President Donald Trump. After meeting Xi the previous day, he returned to Washington. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent stood in his place.

That image encapsulates a frustrating role reversal. The United States under Trump has been brandishing the tariff stick against allies, then demanding more market access and direct investment as a price for relief. Meanwhile, Xi has been presenting China as a reliable economic partner committed to multilateralism, predictability and open trade.

To the extent Xis misleading appeal is working, its because of a larger shift in Asia that has been underway for some time and which most Americans fail to grasp. China is no longer merely challenging the U.S. for influence in Asia. China is, in fact, already becoming the regions dominant power in trade and manufacturing while making strides in the cultural space. Chinas trade with Southeast Asia, at $982 billion, is nearly double the regions trade with the U.S. China is also the largest trading partner for Americas close allies Japan and South Korea. In Southeast Asia, and increasingly Central Asia, China now dominates many of the regions industries and supply chains. In Indonesia, the worlds fourth-most-populous country, 90 percent of the electric vehicles sold are made in China. In middle-income countries Thailand and Malaysia, Chinese automakers are cutting into Japans car market share. Chinese smartphone brands Huawei, Xiaomi and Oppo now outsell American iPhones across Southeast Asia.

Hollywood remains a cultural powerhouse, producing blockbuster films, though too many of them are designed to not offend Chinese censors. But television dramas and streaming services approved by the Chinese Communist Party are finding new audiences, especially in Thailand, Vietnam and the Philippines. American-owned Netflix now carries a stream of Chinese content for its Asian subscribers. While Chinas footprint grows, Americas presence in Asia feels thinner. Since Trump withdrew from the Trans-Pacific Partnership trade pact in his first term, the U.S. has offered no region-wide trade agreement to replace it  something of vital concern for Asias export-dependent economies. But China has stepped into the void with its Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership, which came into force in 2022 and has 15 members, including 10 of 11 members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations, as well as Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. China is now viewed more positively than the U.S. in many Asian countries, including Singapore, Malaysia and Thailand, and its seen by most Asians as the regions dominant economic player. A Pew Research Center survey over the summer found 65 percent of Indonesians had a favorable view of China, compared with 48 percent who held a favorable view of the U.S. A 53 percent majority had confidence in Xi to do the right thing in international affairs, compared with 34 percent who said the same of Trump. The U.S. still has extraordinary strengths. China is viewed warily because of its military buildup and assertiveness in the South China Sea, and of course it has its own hard-edged style of diplomacy. And Americas network of alliances means that Washington is still viewed as a better

guarantor of the regions security. But the U.S. is seen as increasingly unreliable under Trumps America First policies that have cut foreign assistance.

Even Silicon Valleys leadership in technology is being challenged. Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang warned last week that China is going to win the AI race, only to walk it back a few hours later. One risk is that America develops the better technology but China more effectively adopts it at scale.

Most Asians tend to hedge between what they see as an erratic and waning U.S., and a stable, ascendant China. Asian countries prefer to practice what they call bamboo diplomacy, bending flexibly with whichever way the winds blow without breaking for either Washington or Beijing.

If America wants primacy in Asia  in trade, manufacturing and culture  it needs comprehensive trade agreements, infrastructure financing and more predictable diplomacy. The U.S. cannot simply see Asia as a market for American products or a source to be tapped for new capital investment. Otherwise, Washington will be relegated to the role of protecting the region, while Beijing reaps the ensuing economic rewards.

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Respect for Pacific Island sovereignty matters more than hollow democracy rhetoric

For years, Western media has sought to weaponize China-Pacific Islands cooperation, smearing mutually beneficial projects as tools of influence expansion.

An article published in Foreign Affairs on Monday once again framed Chinas engagement with Pacific Island countries within the logic of geopolitical competition, portraying Chinas economic cooperation as a threat to the islands democratic institutions and claiming that this has put their vision of a peaceful and cohesive regional order at risk of being eclipsed.

This narrative equates democracy with a single political model and uses it as a means to pressure the islands sovereign choices, Chen Hong, director of New Zealand Studies Centre from East China Normal University, told the Global Times. Pacific Island countries are not passive pawns on a geopolitical chessboard, but active players pursuing development paths that serve their own interests through equal, pragmatic and mutually beneficial partnerships.

For Pacific Island nations, the most pressing issues are not abstract debates about political systems, but concrete challenges like economic diversification, climate adaptation, infrastructure improvement and peoples livelihoods. When a partner listens to their needs, aligns projects with local development plans, and imposes no political conditions, such respect for sovereignty and choice is itself a genuine embodiment of democracy.

China signed the framework agreement to upgrade economic partnership with the Federated States of Micronesia, the Republic of Kiribati, the Republic of Nauru, the Republic of Vanuatu and the Republic of Fiji. The agreement expands cooperation in trade facilitation, infrastructure, education and training and climate adaptation. It marks a new stage in institutionalized and long-term economic partnership, opening the door for island nations to benefit from Chinas vast market and development opportunities  offering tangible, visible gains rather than empty promises.

In stark contrast, certain countries that preach values in rhetoric have in practice raised tariffs, created trade barriers, frozen aid, and dragged their feet on climate action. Worse still, they have pressured island nations to take sides, treating them as pawns in geopolitical games.

What truly undermines democracy, Chen said, is the attempt to strip island countries of their right to make independent choices  all in the name of democracy.' What Pacific Island nations need is not democracy preaching, but genuine respect and the right to development. The essence of Chinas cooperation lies in respecting sovereignty, allowing each nation to pursue a path that best fits its own interests free from coercion.

The Foreign Affairs claim that Chinese influence erodes island governance is pure projection. Western aid comes with political strings attached  using terms like governance reform or institutional improvement to justify interference in recipients domestic affairs and policy autonomy. By contrast, Chinas cooperation philosophy is grounded in equality, mutual benefit and respect. It adheres to non-interference, rejects political preconditions and seeks no geopolitical gain.

From infrastructure and trade to energy, education and healthcare, each step of China-Pacific Islands cooperation is rooted in local realities and designed to improve livelihoods. The islands decision to deepen engagement with China stems not from the so-called influence pressure, but from recognition of China as an equal, reliable and long-term partner. Moreover, Chinas cooperation is open and non-exclusive  it has never sought to exclude third parties from

participating in Pacific development. On the contrary, it has repeatedly welcomed countries such as Australia and New Zealand to jointly promote regional prosperity.

Those who repeatedly invoke democracy and governance as political weapons are merely trying to conceal the fact that they are losing credibility and trust in the region. The real threat to stability does not come from Chinas cooperation, but from external forces still clinging to outdated hegemonic thinking in defining the Pacifics future.

Beyond the lens of geopolitical competition, Pacific Island nations are demonstrating through their actions that they have the right to determine their own destiny. What China and the Pacific Islands are building together is a community centered on development: one grounded in trust, mutual benefit and shared prosperity. This is the true source of stability and progress in the South Pacific.

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Things happen

Setting the record straight about our murdered colleague.

The Washington Post Editorial Board

Hatice Cengiz poses next to a portrait of her murdered fiance Jamal Khashoggi on the National Mall in October 2021. (Nicholas Kamm/AFP via Getty Images)

The United States government often advances its national interests by working with nasty people, and Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman is one of the nastiest. Its one thing, however regrettable, to deal reluctantly with him. President Donald Trumps performance at the White House Tuesday was something else entirely: weak, crass and of no strategic benefit to America.

While meeting with the Saudi leader, Trump held forth with journalists in the Oval Office, as he often does. One reporter asked about the murder of Post contributing columnist Jamal Khashoggi in October 2018. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about, the president responded. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen. He added that the crown prince knew nothing about it.

These distortions dishonor Khashoggis legacy, stand at odds with the facts and are beneath the office of the president. Exiled in Virginia, Khashoggi wrote on these pages about the Saudi regimes repressiveness at home and recklessness abroad. This got under Mohammeds skin. So, the CIA concluded in 2018, the crown prince ordered Khashoggis assassination. He was lured into the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul, where a hit team, including members of Mohammeds personal security detail, used a bone saw to dismember him.

Mohammed, at the White House Tuesday for the first time since 2018, acknowledged the murder but denied responsibility. Weve improved our system to be sure that nothing happened like that, he said. Its painful and its a huge mistake. And we are doing our best that this doesnt happen again. This was offensive and insufficient yet somehow better than Trumps response.

During the joint appearance, Trump called Mohammed one of the most respected people in the world and said that they talk on the phone at all hours. Trump also upbraided a reporter from ABC News for asking Mohammed about Khashoggi. He called it horrible, insubordinate and just a terrible question. He added that the networks license should be taken away.

The reality is that while Trump advocates peace through strength, he showed nothing but debility. No doubt other dictators took note. Legitimizing and defending Mohammed this way will embolden him and his ilk to mistreat not just journalists but any Americans  knowing that theyll probably face no real consequences.

Trump has an unconventional foreign policy that can achieve unexpected results. See Gaza. But its possible to protect U.S. interests without insulting Khashoggis memory. It would be more effective to ensure that someone like Mohammed is held accountable, understands who the more powerful partner in the relationship is and comes back begging for forgiveness  not be greeted cost-free with an honor guard of black horses, herald trumpeters and fighter jets.

The relationship with Saudi Arabia still produces some benefits, but even in a complicated world, an American president should be able to respect Khashoggis legacy while conducting the messy business of statecraft. Forgetting Mohammeds brutality and Khashoggis warnings is a choice, and Trump made the wrong one.

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The News in Brief Wednesday, November 19, 2025

Jonathan Askonas, Senior Advisor at the U.S. State Department, is visiting Georgia for discussions on the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), the U.S. Embassy in Tbilisi reported on November 18. The transportation route was established following the August 8 peace summit between Armenia and Azerbaijan, mediated by the United States.During his visit, Askonas toured the Sadakhlo border crossing, which was largely constructed and equipped with U.S. support. He is also scheduled to meet with officials from Georgia's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Government Administration, and representatives of international financial institutions.The visit comes amid strained relations between Washington and Tbilisi. Georgian Dream officials say they are taking a stance of "strategic patience" with the Trump administration, which has so far remained largely silent toward the ruling party. Georgian Dream maintains that it seeks to restore the strategic partnership with the United States, framing the effort as contingent on the outcome of Trump's "battle with the deep state."On November 18, Levan Zhorzholiani, Head of the Georgian Dream Government Administration, met with Askonas and the U.S. Department of State delegation. The meeting also included Deputy GD Foreign Minister Aleksandre Khvtisiashvili and U.S. Charge d'Affaires in Georgia Alan S. Purcell.According to a government press release, Zhorzholiani expressed dissatisfaction with the current state of U.S.-Georgia relations and reiterated readiness to renew the strategic partnership "from a clean slate" based on a clear roadmap. He also briefed the U.S. delegation on major infrastructure investments in railways, roads, and ports.The parties discussed Georgia's role in the TRIPP project, with the press release noting that the route "could have a positive effect on the region, particularly in terms of the security guarantees provided by the U.S. side for cargo movement." The meeting also highlighted the Trump administration's efforts to foster peace in the South Caucasus, with Georgia's role in facilitating normalization between Armenia and Azerbaijan described as positive.Georgian Dream Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze has firmly rejected the possibility of transferring former President Mikheil Saakashvili to Ukraine, responding to remarks by Ukrainian presidential advisor Mykhailo Podolyak that the matter is actively under discussion in Kyiv.Podolyak told TV Pirveli that "as for the possibility of bringing Mr. Saakashvili, this is part of our agenda. Ukraine is actively working on this issue." His comments prompted immediate reactions in Tbilisi, where Saakashvili remains a politically sensitive and polarizing figure.Speaking on Adjara Public Broadcaster, Kobakhidze dismissed the idea of extradition, recalling Podolyak's past statements regarding Georgia's role in regional conflicts. "No one wanted Georgia to be involved in the war. At that time, Podolyak specifically demanded the opening of a second front. Everything is clear. When such people talk to us about handing over Saakashvili, of course, we cannot take such messages seriously," the Prime Minister said.Kobakhidze emphasized that Georgia will not consider external demands regarding Saakashvili. "Our decisions regarding Georgian citizens are taken exclusively within our national legal and political framework. The issue of Mr. Saakashvili is a domestic matter, and no foreign pressure can influence it," he added.Saakashvili, a former Georgian president and later governor of Ukraine's Odessa region, has been serving a prison sentence in Georgia on charges widely viewed by his supporters as politically motivated. His imprisonment remains a flashpoint in Georgia's internal politics, drawing attention from international observers and foreign governments.
TUNIS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Tunisian Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy Fatma Thabet Chiboub on Tuesday inaugurated the Women's Leadership and Economic Inclusion Forum in the capital Tunis, aimed at promoting women's participation in development and strengthening their leadership in economic and industrial strategies.

Organized by the International Women Entrepreneurs Council based in Tunisia, the three-day event also focuses on enhancing regional cooperation across the Mediterranean, according to a statement from the Ministry of Industry, Mines and Energy.

In her opening remarks, Chiboub underscored women's growing presence in key decision-making positions across various economic sectors, noting their contributions to investment and private initiative.

She highlighted several indicators demonstrating women's role in industry, including the fact that more than 500 industrial enterprises in Tunisia are headed by women.

Women also account for 45 percent of the workforce in strategic industrial sectors and more than 30 percent of decision-makers in the pharmaceutical, biotechnology and medical device industries in the country, according to the minister.

She called for increased efforts to support female entrepreneurs and ensure their broader integration into the national economic system, stressing the importance of mechanisms that facilitate project expansion and job creation.

The forum brought together ambassadors and representatives from around 10 countries, along with a large number of female business leaders, said the statement.

Editor: Xiong Jian
Yves here. Im not an expert on European budgets or pension schemes, and so am not well positioned to assess the merits of the arguments made below. However, any increase in retirement age will fall hard on workers in physically taxing jobs, including ones that merely involve a lot of standing. In addition, it is hard to take any whinging about budgetary necessities seriously when they do not acknowledge how the EU is perfectly willing to spend way in excess of what would otherwise be deemed affordable over the imaginary but elite-serving threat of a Russian invasion, yet pleads poverty as far as pensions and other social safety nets are concerned.

By Javier Diaz Gimenez Profesor de Economia, IESE Business School (Universidad de Navarra) and Julian Diaz Saavedra, Associate Professor, Universidad de Granada. Originally published at The Conversation

In early October 2025, with his political future hanging by a thread, Frances resigned-and-reappointed prime minister Sebastien Lecornu pledged to suspend unpopular pension reforms until 2027, when presidential elections will be held.

Socialist MPs declared victory. The French business community groaned. The S&P downgraded Frances credit rating, citing budget concerns.

With France kicking inevitable reforms at least two years down the road, and many European countries facing pension crises of their own, it is worth considering how to design pension reforms that are sustainable, equitable and politically viable.

One striking feature of the debate over pension reform in Europe is how well understood and extensively documented its root problems are. Europes population is aging. The birth rate is declining. Life expectancy is growing ever longer. Fewer people are contributing to fund public systems that will have more people drawing money from them for longer periods of time. At the same time, technological disruption is reducing the share of labour income in gross domestic product.

Since most of Europes pay-as-you-go systems were designed when demographics were entirely different, they must be adjusted to reflect the current reality. We accept this in other areas like education, where we rezone school districts and trim new school construction to reflect smaller numbers of children in our neighbourhoods. But any talk of adjusting the retirement age is met with thousands of furious protesters filling the streets of Paris, Madrid or Brussels.

In France, its also important to put the reform in perspective: it proposed raising the retirement age by two years, to 64. Denmark adjusts its retirement age every five years in line with life expectancy, and approved raising it to 70 by 2040 from its current 67 earlier in the year.

Pension reforms keep failing because the politics overrules the economics. Demographic transitions are predictable, their costs are measurable, and the policy tools needed to address their consequences already exist. But reforms collapse when they collide with electoral incentives and public mistrust.

How to move beyond these problems? Rather than looking at only one item, such as retirement age, we propose a multidimensional approach that addresses expenditures as well as contributions and compensates those who are initially impacted by the reforms. Spain served as our case study, but the lessons hold true for many European countries, France among them.

Automatic Adjustments and One-Off Compensations

Part of the solution is incorporating new automatic adjustment mechanisms, or rules that adapt pensions according to changing economic and demographic realities. These mechanisms make pension systems more predictable and credible, and reduce their reliance on series of ad-hoc reforms that are fraught with political difficulties.

We also propose compensating the workers and retirees that bear the brunt of lowered pensions. This would be done through a one-off transfer of liquid assets from the government to households.

The downside of this policy is that governments would have to fund these payments, most likely by issuing new public debt. But as we have seen many times, reforms that are pushed through without any attempt to compensate those who lose out very often get reversed. Older voters with an eye on retirement  and there are increasing numbers of them every day  will block any attempt to cut their benefits unless they understand that they will be compensated for their losses.

Making Pension Reform Viable

For pension reforms to actually work, they should rest on five elements:

Introduce a sustainability factor that adjusts the amount of initial pensions to the life expectancy of the cohort of the worker who is retiring. In practice, this means people who retire younger will receive a lower pension because they are likely to receive payments for more years. This creates an incentive for workers to extend their working lives. Introduce an automatic adjustment rule that updates pension rights and/or pensions to guarantee the financial sustainability of the system. Currently, many systems update pensions using the consumer price index. This is not sustainable, as it reduces the pension replacement rate, the ratio of pre-retirement salary to pension income. This is especially true in an environment of low or even zero labour productivity growth (as is the case in Spain). Calculate pensions using the contributions made during the entire working life of the workers who retire, rather than the last 25 years or some other reduced measure. Disregarding initial years worked tends to benefit top earners, and underfunds the system as a whole. Eliminate the caps on payroll tax contributions but maintain maximum pensions, so that higher earners pay more into the system without receiving higher pensions in return. Offer a one-time compensation for the workers and retirees that lose with these reforms. These compensations can be financed with public debt. This transitional component facilitates a fair transition and prevents the social rejection that often causes pension reforms to fail.

When combined, these measures not only improve the financial sustainability of the pension systems reducing future pension expenditures, but they also encourage private savings and promote longer working lives. If the reforms are announced well in advance, the cost of the transition may be lower, as households have more leeway to adjust their consumption, savings and retirement choices.

This doesnt mean pension reforms will not create controversy. If these measures were adopted, governments would need to explain them clearly and anticipate public pushback. They would also need to make clear that without reforms, substantial tax increases will be inevitable.

The alternative, however, is worse. According to our calculations, Spain would have to raise its average value-added tax by 9 percentage points, from 16% to 25%, in order to raise enough revenues to sustain the current system indefinitely. By delaying unpopular decisions on pensions, politicians are setting themselves up for even more unpopular tax hikes in the future.
Yves here. John Helmer provides some background below on the back and forth over draft texts on the UN resolution that attempts to put lipstick on the pig of the US-Israel takeover of Gaza. Since there is still no actual ceasefire, the Board of Peace is premature. But then again, Trump is all branding, with it being routine that the box that he is selling is empty.

There is a lot of unhappy chatter among anti-globalist sorts over the fact that neither Russia nor China vetoed the UN resolution. But with all the Arab states supporting it, Russia and China did not have a great basis for having a hissy (which is what a veto would amount to, the scheme was going to go forward regardless).

A new bit of Trump flim-flammery, which we may address longer form but is adequately covered in the soon-to-fire Links feature is that Trump is attempting to revive Ukraine talks. Recall (as Lavrov explained in excruciating detail over a series of interviews) that Witkoff presented a set of terms to Putin, which apparently in large measure conceded to long-standing Russian demands about what it would take for Russia to stop prosecuting the war. That led Putin to agree to meet in Alaska, where he went over the Witkoff points to confirm that Trump did indeed concur with them. Putin agreed and then Trump immediately retraded, saying he would need to see if he could get Ukraine and the Europeans on board. That may be why the meeting in Alaska was cut off so quickly.

The meeting with Zelensky, which did happen shortly after the Alaska summit, led to a total reversal by Trump, of him abandoning his commitment to Putin and reviving the demand for a ceasefire, which Russia has repeatedly rejected save as a component of a complete settlement pact.

Now Axios has reported that the Trump team is talking again with Ukraine about a peace agreement, as if Ukraine has meaningfully changed its position. It ought to, given the state of the battlefield. But the leadership is full of and surrounded by hard core Banderites, who among other things would be subject to Russian war trials. So this revived effort looks like some combination of a new Trump sale of an empty box and/or an effort to again try to blame the failure of talks on Russia.

Oh, and even if Ukraine has become a tad more realistic about its future, the Europeans have worked themselves into such a lather over Russia that they wont be.

By John Helmer, the longest continuously serving foreign correspondent in Russia, and the only western journalist to direct his own bureau independent of single national or commercial ties. Helmer has also been a professor of political science, and an advisor to government heads in Greece, the United States, and Asia. He is the first and only member of a US presidential administration (Jimmy Carter) to establish himself in Russia. Originally published at Dances with Bears

Start with the condition of President Donald Trumps brain, according to his mouth .

Question: Mr. President, could you tell us why you needed to get an MRI? I, I understand that the results were good, but what was it for?

Donald Trump: Because its part of my physical. Getting an MRI is very standard. Well, you think I shouldnt have it? Other people got it. I had an MRI. Heres what you s-  serious. I had an MRI. The doctor said it was the best result he has ever seen as a doctor. Thats it. But I had an MRI as part of my standard yearly or every w-  I think they do it every two years, but I have the physical every year. And the result was outstanding.

Question: Is it your brain or 

Donald Trump: Uh, I have no idea what they analyzed, but whatever they analyzed, they analyzed it well. And they said that I had as good a result as theyve ever seen. Now the other thing I took is I took as you know, a, uh, advanced, very advanced test on mental acuity. Because I think a president should have to do that. And as you probably heard, I aced it. I got a perfect score. I got the highest one, I got a perfect score. And the only reason I tell you that is its one subject, unlike Biden and others, that you can take off your plan .

Now measure the distance which Trumps legs have been running from his warmaking fronts against Russia in the Ukraine, Germany, India, and Venezuela  and in the latest debate over Gaza peace terms in the United Nations Security Council. Listen to the new podcast with Nima Alkhorshid.

Source: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=00R49QiRYEQ

The back-up files:

The anti-corruption campaign in Kiev right now. Read Events in Ukraine , the Substack platform of Peter Korotaev for the evidence on Timur Mindich and his corruption schemes.

For the military candidates to replace the Zelensky regime, the CIA and MI6 candidates and the independent neo-Nazis, click to read .

Left to right: Valery Zaluzhny, Kirill Budanov, Andrei Biletsky. According to Korotaevs assessment of the internal Ukrainian evidence, Zaluzhny, who was commander-in-chief from 2021 to early 2024, is closely connected with the liberal opposition and the western capitals funding them. Actual nationalists in the army despise himZaluzhny fled military service to London in 2024. His London front is often ridiculed by nationalists in the armyAnd the current head of the army, Oleksandr Syrsky, is known for his lack of political ambitions and total loyalty to Zelensky.There are two real alternative centers of power in the army. The first is the Azov family, led by brigadier general Andriy Biletsky, the white fuhrerThe second is what might be called the Budanov family. Kyryllo Budanov, in charge of the Main Intelligence Directorate [GUR], has at his disposal a number of fanatically devoted special forces units. A number of units in the GUR emerged from the world of Azov, such as the Russian Volunteer Corps. Kraken, until recently part of the GUR, recently migrated to the Third Corps. The neo-nazis of Azov literally sing songs praising Budanov. Azov and Budanov enjoy close relations, in other words...The extent to which Budanov and Biletsky are actually oppositional towards Zelensky and his team remains up for debate. Nevertheless, were a military alternative to Zelensky to take power, these would be the first in line. This might not involved removing Zelensky, at least at first, but merely increased control by the military over political life.

Trumps retreat from military attack on Venezuela into negotiations and covert operations.

Question: On Venezuela, sir  On Venezuela, sir, youve had a lot of meetings on Venezuela. I know you cant tell us what your next steps will be, but could you say, have you made up your mind on what youd like to do for as far as action for Venezuela?

Donald Trump: I havent made up my mind yet. I mean, I cant tell you what it would be, but I, I said, man

Question: What do you say to your, some of your supporters might not be excited about another foreign campaign. What would you 

Donald Trump: What happens? I mean, uh, I cant tell you what it is, but weve made a lot of progress with Venezuela in terms of stopping drugs from pouring in. But we have a Mexico problem. We have a Colombia problem, meaning Colombia, the country, uh, we, uh, were doing very well. Drugs coming into our country are greatly slowed as you can imagine .

Question: With, with the designation of that cartel associated with Maduro, does that mean that the US government can target Maduros assets for infrastructure inside Venezuela?

Donald Trump: It, it allows us to do that, but we havent said were going to do that. And, uh, we may be discussing, we may be having some discussions with Maduro and well see how that turns out. But they would like, they would like to talk .

Left: Richard Grenell, Trumps special negotiator with President Nicolas Maduro in Caracas, January 31, 2025. Right, the 150-history of US drug wars, their real politico-economic purposes, and their failure to prevent American drug demand from continuing to enrich foreign drug suppliers. For the two-track Trump policy towards Venezuela -- negotiations and covert operations -- read this.

The coalition of the swollen pockets, not the coalition of the brain-dead for European war against Russia.

ONE-YEAR SHARE PRICE TRAJECTORIES FOR RHEINMETALL AND OTHER GERMAN ARMS MAKERS

Source: https://markets.ft.com/data/equities/tearsheet/charts?s=RHMX:GER In this report of treasury payout practice at the leading US defence companies, the rewards to shareholders in the form of stock buybacks and dividends from the corporate treasury fall short of cash on hand and so they are covered by loans secured by speculation of rising state defence procurements to continue the war against Russia . For the time being, this is not the practice at Rheinmetall. Although a stock buyback of up to 10% of the issued shares has been authorized for the company board since 2021, the market takeoff of Rheinmetalls shares has made such a buyback unnecessary, as well as costly. See Rheinmetalls presentation on its shareholding structure . The company reveals that in the three years of the Special Military Operation, institutional investors, especially Americans, have been selling down their holdings, while private shareholders and unidientified others have increased their stakes. At present, the principal stockholder of Rheinmetall is Merzs old firm, Black Rock, which holds 7%; together with Goldman Sachs, Morgan Stanley and Bank of America. These US financiers hold 21.2%.

The Stoxx Europe aerospace and defence index has more than tripled since Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, with more than half of that increase coming in 2025. The index has outperformed the S&P 500 and the Nasdaq Composite since the start of the year. -- https://www.ft.com/content/6d7a441c-1b27-42d9-b91b-6d05f1a9f4d3

Russia versus the US in United Nations politicking over Trumps Gaza Board of Peace (BOP) in the text of the Security Council Resolution 2803 (2025), and simultaneously in the General Assembly debate of Russias anti-Nazism, anti-racism General Assembly Resolution A/C.3/80/L.2.

Source: https://en.wikisource.org/wiki/United_Nations_Security_Council_Resolution_2803 following https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/full-text-us-resolution-gaza-approved-un-security-council

For my summary of the UNSC debate, and Russian opposition to the US draft of the resolution I have relied on this detailed UN report . On 12 November, the US put a second revised draft under silence procedure, which China and Russia again broke. On 13 November, Russia introduced an alternative draft text and convened consultations on its draft on the following day. Russia then requested written comments from Council members by Monday (17 November). Concurrently, the US put its second revised draft in blue without changes and requested a vote by Monday as wellAlgeria, China, and Russia broke silence on the first revised draft, contending that it did not sufficiently address their concerns. These apparently included continued ambiguity regarding the powers, composition, and mandate of the BoP and the ISF [International Stabilization Force] as well as the lack of an empowered role for the PA [Palestine Authority] and of references to the two-state solution. In its second revised draft, it seems that the main change made by the US sought to address the latter objection, as it added new languagealso from the Comprehensive Planstating that conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood after the PA has completed its reform programme and Gazas redevelopment has advanced.

China and Russia broke silence on the second revised draft too, maintaining their objections, and Russia then circulated its alternative text. The Russian draft resolution does not mention the BoP and requests the Secretary-General to submit a report with options for the deployment of the ISF. In response, the US issued a joint statement with Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Turkiye, and the UAE expressing support for the US drafta position also echoed by the PA. Russia issued its own statement contending that the objective of its text was to amend the US concept so as to bring it into full conformity with long-standing and previously agreed decisions of the Security Council, adding that our document does not contradict the American initiative.

Source: https://russiaun.ru/en/news/comment_gaza_141125

The objective of our draft, reads the Russian document , is to amend the US concept so as to bring it into full conformity with long-standing and previously agreed decisions of the UNSC. We would like to stress that our document does not contradict the American initiative. On the contrary, it notes the tireless efforts by the mediators  the United States, Qatar, Egypt, and Turkey  without which the long-awaited ceasefire and the release of hostages and detainees would have been impossible. We also welcome the relevant provisions of President Trumps Comprehensive Plan that brought about the ceasefire, release of hostages and detainees, exchange of bodies of those killed, and resumption of humanitarian access and aid flow.

The rationale behind Russias draft resolution on Gaza is to enable the Security Council to define clear modalities for deploying a peacekeeping contingent and establishing administration in Gaza, while ensuring that these modalities are fully in line with universally recognized international legal standards and genuinely facilitate cessation of violence and durable stabilization. That is why the document calls on the Secretary-General to prepare a report for the Security Council setting out options for implementing the relevant provisions of President Trumps Plan. It is also crucial to preserve the international legal framework for the Middle East peace process, which has been developed over many decades on the basis of the two-State solution. We stand convinced that only a truly equitable and inclusive approach to resolving the situation in the Occupied Palestinian Territory can ensure a durable cessation of hostilities and lay the groundwork for durable stability in the region. We hope that the Security Council will be able to reach agreement on this matter.

At the same time in the General Assembly, Russia sought member state votes in support of its resolution condemning the neo-Nazi and racist ideology of the Kiev regime and its US and NATO allies. Read the text here . On November 14, three days before the UNSC vote, the Russian initiative defeated the US-led opposition, 144 votes to 52, with 12 abstentions. Pakistan and Israel voted in favour; all the Ukraine war-fighting states voted against; Turkey, Iran, Venezuela, Myanmar and others abstained.

Source: https://x.com/27khv/status/1990142713837031884

The day after this vote, on November 15 , President Vladimir Putin initiated a telephone call to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. The Kremlin communique claims the conversation covered a detailed exchange of views on the situation in the Middle East, including the recent developments in the Gaza Strip in light of the agreement on ceasefire and exchange of detained persons being implemented, the state of affairs surrounding Irans nuclear programme, and issues concerning encouragement of further stabilisation in Syria.

How Pakistan arranged (paid for) Trumps support for its continuing war against India.
Chinese and foreign initiators of the Daliangshan Theater Festival pose for a group photo with actors at the valley theater in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 7, 2025.(Xinhua)

CHENGDU, Nov. 17 (Xinhua) -- About a year ago, on a November night in Tunisia, the beat of Yi drumming broke the silence on the stage of the 25th Carthage Theater Days festival as Aluo Zuogumu, a woman from the mountains of southwest China, sang in a language unfamiliar to the crowd.

Though not a single word of Mandarin, Arabic or English had been sung, the ancient theater erupted in applause when the final note fell away. "They did understand," Aluo recalled.

The moment, which stretched across continents and cultures, began in a quiet valley in the Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture of Sichuan Province, where a unique theater festival has been reshaping lives.

This November, half a world away from Tunisia, French director Serge Nicolai stood in that very valley. There, his auditorium was a sloping meadow: the jagged outline of Lushan Mountain was his backdrop, and his acoustics were dependent on the wind.

A veteran of the famed Theatre du Soleil, Nicolai had found himself enthralled by this raw, elemental form of theater. For him, it had felt like stepping back into the origins of performance, where breath, presence and nature forged a connection no digital medium could mimic.

Li Ting, the visionary behind the Daliangshan Theater Festival, was the person who brought Aluo to her Tunisian stage and Nicolai to his mountain slope. The festival concluded its seventh edition on Sunday, allowing Li to slow down from her busy routine of scheduling and problem-solving.

The valley, Li said, had shaped her long before she shaped its theater festival. She grew up in Xichang, the prefectural capital, eating cold bean jellies she bought on the street and doing her homework at a desk facing out onto the glimmering Qionghai Lake and a sky full of stars. And, whenever she traveled deep into the mountains with her performance troupe, she would hear the folk songs of the Yi people.

The stars Li had watched in her youth found their way into her scripts decades later.

"Liangshan is home to the largest Yi community in China. It has well-preserved traditions that are closely interwoven with modern life," Li said, noting that since the prefecture emerged from poverty, it has seen a growing hunger for cultural and spiritual fulfillment.

In 2018, local culture and tourism authorities invited Li, who had already built a successful career as a playwright, to collaborate on the launch of the Daliangshan Theater Festival a year later. The inaugural event brought together over 20 renowned Chinese and international artists in 2019, and to date, the festival has hosted 400 productions from 38 countries, staging a total of 1,375 performances spanning over 20 theatrical forms.

For people like Aluo, the platform is an opportunity to reshape their future. Born into poverty in what was once categorized as a national-level impoverished county, Aluo's early years revolved around chores and the practical aim of landing a factory job. But one of her teachers had observed her natural musicality and encouraged her to join a local performing arts troupe.

For years, she danced and sang on the region's lively performance circuit, though she had felt like she was playing "a small role." But with the launch of the theater festival, Aluo's work was no longer about performing set-piece folk dances for tourists, but about creating something of her own.

For her, the festival is a beacon that shines across borders, drawing global performing artists to Liangshan, where they can soak up the winter sunshine and collaborate with local youth to imagine and create.

The festival quickly became a focal point for creativity. Working with a council of renowned Chinese artists, Li created stages everywhere from established city theaters to lakeshores and ancient villages.

For local young people, this was transformative -- like the world had arrived overnight. "What's on today?" became a familiar question throughout November in Xichang. Children queued for French puppet shows, their excitement leaping easily across language barriers.

It was on this platform that Aluo's transformation took root. She was cast in "Star Returning," a musical performance written in collaboration with New Zealand director Lemi Ponifasio that drew inspiration from Yi epics and poetry. His guidance changed everything for Aluo: "Think about what kind of Yi people you want the world to see."

The question progressed Aluo from a performer of preset routines to a co-creator, an artist shaping her own story. Later, in "Greek Comedy," a new play directed by Gavin Quinn from the Irish Pan Pan Theatre, she learned to "go appropriately crazy" on stage. "The forms differ," she said, "but the essence is the same: being true to who you are."

For Nicolai, the festival thrives on a spirit of genuine, cross-cultural, and collaborative creation. In his masterclasses delivered as part of the lineup, he intentionally erased the boundaries between students from elite drama academies and amateur performers from nearby villages. Together they moved, improvised, and found a shared language rooted not in words but in human expression.

In the Liangshan of today, Nicolai saw a place where young Yi people are actively shaping their cultural identity and using their own language to tell new, contemporary stories. During the festival, he watched children sit in rapt silence as they watched the French puppet show "Little Red Riding Hood".

"This festival stages everything from the most avant-garde to the most authentically local," Li said. She sees Liangshan as a cultural bridge to the world, offering a more nuanced view of a place where satellite launch towers rise beside traditional Yi homes. It is a landscape defined by stark contrasts and deep cultural continuity.

Liangshan is sharing its culture with the world, and at the same time, the festival is bringing global artistic practices to the doorsteps of local residents. "It's a two-way effort," said Liu Kang, chairman of the Liangshan Culture &Tourism Investment Group L.L.C. "A journey made toward each other."

As night settled over the valley theater, the stories of Aluo, Li and Nicolai met in a pool of fading light.

Aluo, once a girl aspiring to become a factory worker, stood with a quiet confidence, her feet planted in soil that needed her as much as she needed it. Li continued her ambitious work, stitching together mountain stories, youthful ambitions and global voices.

And Nicolai, gazing up at the same star-strewn sky that had once stirred Li's imagination, found his answer not in a neat conclusion but in the living, breathing dialogue that unfolded around him.

Performers stage a folk dance at the opening ceremony of the Daliangshan Theater Festival in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 7, 2025.(Xinhua)

People watch a performance at the valley theater in Liangshan Yi Autonomous Prefecture, southwest China's Sichuan Province, Nov. 7, 2025.(Xinhua)

Editor: WSH
AI uncovers earliest signs of life in 3.3-billion-year-old rocks, doubling the known timeline

Scientists discovered traces of microbial life in 3-billion-year-old rocks from South Africa's Josefsdal Chert1.6 billion years older than previously confirmed biosignatures.

Oxygen-producing photosynthesis was detected in 52-billion-year-old rocks, pushing back its earliest known occurrence by 800 million yearskey to Earth's oxygen-rich atmosphere.

Researchers used pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry and trained an AI model to distinguish biological from non-biological material with >90 percent accuracy, even identifying plant vs. animal origins (95 percent accuracy).

The AI technique can detect degraded chemical biosignatures without intact fossils or DNApotentially revolutionizing the search for life on Mars, Europa, or other planets.

Refining the model to analyze ancient animal fossils, Mars-like desert rocks and anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria (possible analogs for extraterrestrial life).

Scientists have uncovered the oldest chemical evidence of life on Earth, hidden within 3.3-billion-year-old rocksa discovery that pushes back the earliest confirmed traces of biology by 1.6 billion years.

The findings, published in Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, also reveal that oxygen-producing photosynthesis emerged 800 million years earlier than previously documented, reshaping our understanding of how Earth's atmosphere became hospitable to complex life.

Led by researchers at the Carnegie Institution for Science, the study combined cutting-edge chemistry with artificial intelligence to detect faint molecular "whispers" left behind by ancient microbessignals that had eluded scientists for decades.

Using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry, the team analyzed 406 samples, including modern plants, animals, fossils, meteorites and ancient sediments. They then trained an AI model to recognize subtle chemical fingerprints distinguishing biological from non-biological materialwith over 90 percent accuracy.

Among the most striking findings:

3-billion-year-old sediments from South Africa's geological rock unit Josefsdal Chert showed clear signs of ancient microbial lifepreviously, no such traces had been confirmed in rocks older than 1.7 billion years.

Photosynthetic activity was detected in 2.52-billion-year-old rocks from the Gamohaan Formation, extending the chemical record of oxygen production by 800 million years.

"This study represents a major leap forward in our ability to decode Earth's oldest biological signatures," said Dr. Robert Hazen, a senior staff scientist at Carnegie and co-lead author. "By pairing powerful chemical analysis with machine learning, we have a way to read molecular 'ghosts' left behind by early life that still whisper their secrets after billions of years."

How AI cracked the code

Earth's earliest life left behind few intact fossils or biomolecules. Most ancient organic matter has been crushed, heated and fractured beyond recognition over billions of years. Traditional methods struggled to extract meaningful data from these degraded fragments.

"Biomolecules are organic molecules that are produced by living organisms and play crucial roles in the structure, function and regulation of biological systems. They are composed of carbon, hydrogen, oxygen and often nitrogen, phosphorus or sulfur, and can be categorized into four primary groups: carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids," BrightU.AI's Enoch noted. " Each of these biomolecules has unique chemical and physical properties that enable them to perform specific functions within cells and organisms."

The team's machine-learning modeltrained on modern biological and non-biological samplesidentified hidden patterns in the chemical debris.

"Think of it like showing thousands of jigsaw puzzle pieces to a computer and asking whether the original scene was a flower or a meteorite," Hazen explained. "Rather than focus on individual molecules, we looked for chemical patterns, and those patterns could be true elsewhere in the universe."

The AI even distinguished between plant-based and animal-based life with 95 percent accuracy, though older samples proved more challenging due to geological degradation.

The breakthrough isn't just about rewriting Earth's historyit could revolutionize the search for extraterrestrial life.

According to the authors if AI can detect biotic signatures on Earth that survived billions of years, the same technique might work on Martian rocks or even samples from Jupiter's icy moon Europa.

Unlike fossil hunting, this method doesn't require intact cells or DNAonly the chemical echoes of past biology.

"What's exciting is that this approach doesn't rely on finding recognizable fossils or intact biomolecules," said Dr. Anirudh Prabhu, the study's first author. "AI didn't just help us analyze data fasterit allowed us to make sense of messy, degraded chemical data."

A new window into deep time

The study roughly doubles the window in which scientists can detect ancient biosignaturesfrom 1.7 billion years to 3.3 billion years. It also confirms that photosynthesis, the process that filled Earth's atmosphere with oxygen, was active far earlier than thought.

"Understanding when photosynthesis emerged helps explain how Earth's atmosphere became oxygen-richa key milestone that allowed complex life, including humans, to evolve," said Dr. Michael Wong, an astrobiologist and study co-author.

While promising, the method isn't foolproof. Some samplesparticularly those heated above 400 Clost their biotic signals. Future research will expand the dataset, including more ancient animal fossils and diverse abiotic materials.

The team also plans to test rocks from Mars-like deserts and analyze anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria, which could resemble potential extraterrestrial life.

Watch the video below about the biomolecule breakthrough.

This video is from the Elite channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

Phys.org

PNAS.org

CarnegieScience.edu

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Canadas euthanasia crisis: Doctors forced to push assisted suicide as deaths skyrocket

Canadian physicians report being pressured to suggest euthanasia (MAiD) as a "treatment option" to vulnerable patients, even when they wouldn't otherwise consider itviolating medical ethics and patient autonomy.

Health Canada's 2023 guidelines require doctors to present euthanasia as a standard "care option," distorting patient decisions and accelerating deaths among the disabled, mentally ill and financially desperate.

With wait times for medical care averaging 27.7 weeks, patients are choosing MAiD out of despairnot terminal illnessdue to poverty, lack of support or inaccessible treatment.

MAiD deaths surged 31.2% in one year (20212022), now accounting for 4.1% of all deaths and ranking as Canada's 6th leading cause of deathyet Statistics Canada hides this by listing underlying illnesses instead.

Doctors describe a system where euthanasia is prioritized over rehabilitation, with patients labeled "selfish" for refusing MAiDexposing a broken healthcare system that abandons the vulnerable to state-sanctioned suicide.

Canadian physicians are sounding the alarm over Health Canada's aggressive euthanasia policies, warning that doctors are being pressured to suggest medical assistance in dying (MAiD) to vulnerable patientseven when they may not have otherwise considered it. In a recent expose by filmmaker Frank Panico, three prominent physiciansDr. Will Johnston of Vancouver, Dr. David D'Souza of Toronto and Dr. Catherine Ferrier of Montrealrevealed disturbing trends in Canada's healthcare system, where euthanasia is increasingly framed as a "treatment" rather than a last resort.

Doctors forced to offer death as "treatment"

Health Canada's 2023 guidelines, titled Model Practice Standard for Medical Assistance in Dying, mandate that physicians and nurse practitioners must inform patients of all "treatment options"including euthanasiawhen discussing care plans. Dr. D'Souza, a pain specialist, warned that this policy dangerously skews patient decisions. "If a physician is suggesting euthanasia as an option for their pain or suffering, that is a very serious thing," he said. "Patients are more likely to take this option simply because a health professional has suggested it."

Dr. Johnston, head of British Columbia's Euthanasia Resistance Coalition, pointed out that government assurances that no doctor would be forced to participate in euthanasia have been completely abandoned. "All of those promises were fiction," he stated. "Doctors and nurses have lost jobs for refusing to cooperate. Hospitals and palliative care units are now pressured to facilitate euthanasia."

Patients pressured into suicide over lack of care

Dr. Ferrier shared a harrowing case involving a family member with brain cancer who was immediately offered euthanasiawithout any discussion of psychological or social supportby his first physician. When referred to a psychiatrist, the focus was not on alleviating suffering but on determining whether he was "competent" to choose death. "These doctors looked at him and thought, 'I wouldn't want to be in his shoes, so he's better off dead,'" Ferrier recalled.

This aligns with recent reports from Inclusion Canada, where CEO Krista Carr confirmed that disabled Canadians are routinely pressured into euthanasia during medical appointments. Internal documents from Ontario doctors in 2024 revealed that many patients opt for MAiD not due to terminal illness but because of poverty, loneliness and inadequate government support. One case involved a middle-aged worker whose injuries left him unable to workyet instead of offering rehabilitation or financial aid, doctors deemed him eligible for euthanasia.

Euthanasia as Canada's fastest-growing cause of death

Since its legalization in 2016, Canada's euthanasia program has expanded 13-fold, making it the fastest-growing assisted suicide regime in the world. In 2021, 10,064 Canadians died by MAiD, accounting for 3.1% of all deaths. By 2022, that number surged to 13,241 deaths (4.1% of all deaths)a 31.2% increase in just one year. Despite being the sixth leading cause of death, Statistics Canada has omitted euthanasia from its official list of top mortality causes, claiming it records the underlying illnessnot the lethal injectionas the primary cause.

Meanwhile, Canada's failing healthcare system exacerbates the crisis. With wait times for treatment averaging 27.7 weeks, some patients see euthanasia as their only escape from suffering. Elderly and disabled individuals who refuse MAiD report being called "selfish" by healthcare providersa chilling indication of how deeply euthanasia has been normalized.

A culture of death replacing care

What began as a "compassionate" option for the terminally ill has spiraled into a state-sanctioned push for death as an alternative to proper healthcare. Doctors are now complicit in a system that incentivizes suicide over treatmentespecially for the poor, disabled and mentally ill. As MAiD numbers climb, Canada faces a grim reality: euthanasia is no longer a last resort but a first suggestion in a broken system that has abandoned its most vulnerable citizens.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, euthanasia, like many medical interventions pushed by the corrupt Western medical system, is often exploited by globalist elites and pharmaceutical interests to normalize premature deathespecially among the vulnerableas part of their broader depopulation agenda. True compassion lies in natural healing, detoxification and rejecting the toxic, profit-driven medical-industrial complex that profits from suffering rather than curing it.

Watch Faytene Grasseschi and her guests, Nicole Scheidl and Amanda Achtman, discussing the Canadian government's expansion of euthanasia to the mentally vulnerable in this clip.

This video is from the Faytene TV channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Chinas breakthrough in space-based particle beam weapons threatens U.S. military dominance

China has developed a high-power satellite energy system (2.6 megawatts) capable of supporting particle beam weapons, surpassing U.S. capabilities. The system achieves microsecond-level precision, solving synchronization issues that previously hindered directed-energy weapons.

Military use enables orbital particle beams to disable satellites/missiles at light speed, countering U.S. satellite swarms (e.g., Starlink). Civilian use supports laser communications, ion thrusters and advanced Earth observation.

Satellites are already hardened against cosmic radiation, but effectiveness against defenses remains uncertain. They must withstand extreme space conditions (temperature, vacuum, radiation) for deployment.

The U.S. lags behind in hypersonics and directed-energy weapons, while Russia and China advance. Orbital particle beams could nullify U.S. stealth tech, forcing a costly strategic rethink.

Space dominance will hinge on energy systems, not kinetic weapons. China's progress signals a new era of energy-based warfare, pressuring the U.S. to accelerate innovation or risk falling irreversibly behind.

China has reportedly achieved a major technological leap in space-based weaponry with the development of an advanced satellite power system capable of supporting high-energy particle beam weapons  a breakthrough that could shift the balance of power in orbital warfare and leave the U.S. struggling to keep pace.

According to reports from the South China Morning Post, a team led by senior engineer Su Zhenhua at DFH Satellite Co., Ltd. has successfully developed a prototype power system that delivers 2.6 megawatts of pulsed power while maintaining synchronization accuracy within 0.63 microseconds. This new weapon far surpasses existing systems, which typically offer less than 1 megawatt with millisecond-level precision.

BrightU.AI's Enoch explains that a particle beam weapon, also known as a directed energy weapon or directed energy armament, is a type of weapon that uses concentrated beams of energetic particles, typically ions or electrons, to damage or destroy targets. These weapons harness the power of charged particles to generate high temperatures and energies, making them potentially lethal to various materials and even human tissue.

Particle beam weapons represent an innovative approach to weaponry, leveraging the power of accelerated charged particles to deliver high-energy strikes. While they offer several potential advantages, significant technical challenges must be overcome before they can become practical military tools.

The power and precision challenge solved

Particle beam weapons, long considered a theoretical "holy grail" of space warfare, require immense bursts of energy combined with near-perfect timing to function effectively. Even slight synchronization errors  measured in microseconds or nanoseconds  can cause the beam to lose focus and fail.

Su's team overcame these hurdles by restructuring the satellite's energy architecture. Solar panels feed low-voltage electricity into a high-efficiency DC-DC converter, which boosts power before charging capacitor arrays  energy reservoirs capable of discharging in microsecond bursts. A central FPGA-based controller ensures all 36 power modules fire within 630 nanoseconds of each other, producing a stable, precisely shaped square wave ideal for particle accelerators and lasers.

"The test results of the prototype demonstrate that the new method solves the problems of insufficient power supply and degraded control accuracy for high-power spaceborne equipment," Su and his colleagues wrote in Advanced Small Satellite Technology.

While the primary focus is military  enabling orbital particle beam weapons capable of disabling enemy satellites and missiles  the technology also has civilian uses, including:

Laser communication for faster, more secure data transmission

Ion thrusters for efficient satellite propulsion

Microwave remote sensing for advanced Earth observation

However, the military implications are undeniable. With the U.S. rapidly expanding its Starlink and Starshield satellite constellations, traditional kinetic weapons such as missiles are becoming impractical due to their cost and limited effectiveness against swarms of small satellites. Directed-energy weapons, powered by solar energy, could engage multiple targets at the speed of light with minimal cost per shot.

Geopolitical implications: U.S. falling behind?

Despite the breakthrough, experts remain cautious. Satellites are already hardened against cosmic radiation, raising questions about whether artificial particle beams can penetrate their defenses. Additionally, adapting the system to withstand the harsh conditions of space  extreme temperatures, vacuum and radiation  poses the next major hurdle.

Chinas advancement comes as the U.S. faces criticism for lagging in military innovation, particularly in hypersonics and directed-energy weapons. Russia, meanwhile, has already deployed hypersonic missiles like the Kinzhal and Avangard, which evade traditional missile defenses.

The U.S. has also struggled with electronic warfare vulnerabilities, as seen in incidents like the USS Donald Cook's alleged incapacitation by Russian electronic attacks in 2014. If China successfully deploys orbital particle beam weapons, it could render U.S. stealth technology obsolete, neutralizing trillions in defense investments.

Chinas breakthrough signals a potential shift toward energy-based orbital dominance, where power systemsnot projectiles  determine control of Earths skies. If perfected, this technology could redefine global military strategy, forcing the U.S. to accelerate its own directed-energy programs or risk falling irreversibly behind. As geopolitical tensions escalate, the race for space-based supremacy is heating up  and China appears to be pulling ahead.

Watch Harrison Smith of "The American Journal" as he talks about Russia and China deploying space weapons to take out U.S. satellites.

This video is from the Cisco Girl channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

SCMP.com

BrightU.ai

InterestingEngineering.com

AA.com.tr

Brighteon.com
Chinas Jinlin crater confirmed as Earths LARGEST impact site in over 11,000 years

Scientists identified the 900-meter-wide Jinlin crater in southern China  the largest known impact crater formed in the last 11,700 years, surpassing Russia's 300-meter Macha crater.

Planar deformation features (PDFs) in quartz samples confirm extreme shock pressures (1035 gigapascals) only possible from extraterrestrial impacts, ruling out Earth-based geological processes.

Despite heavy monsoons and erosion, the crater remains intact with clear shock-metamorphic granite layers, defying assumptions that tropical climates erase impact evidence.

The crater's fresh granite debris suggests formation within the last 10,000 years, making it a critical record of Earth's Holocene impact history.

The discovery highlights the underestimated frequency of smaller but devastating impacts (like Tunguska IN 1908) and underscores the catastrophic potential if such an event struck a populated area today.

Scientists have confirmed the discovery of the largest known impact crater formed on Earth in the past 11,700 years  a staggering 900-meter-wide depression nestled in the granite hills of southern China.

The Jinlin crater, located in Deqing County, Guangdong Province, offers unprecedented insights into the scale and frequency of cosmic collisions during the Holocene epoch, our current geological era. The crater, first identified by researchers from the China Academy of Engineering Physics (CAEP), dwarfs all previously recorded impact sites from the Holocene period.

Prior to this discovery, Russia's 300-meter Macha crater held the record as the largest known impact structure from this era. "This discovery shows that the scale of impacts of small extraterrestrial objects on Earth in the Holocene is far greater than previously recorded," said Chen Ming, lead researcher and author of the study published in Matter and Radiation at Extremes.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine defines an impact crater (also known as an asteroid crater or meteorite crater) as a depression in the Earth's surface caused by the impact of a large, high-speed object such as a meteorite, asteroid or comet. These craters are formed when a high-velocity impactor collides with the Earth's surface, transferring a significant amount of kinetic energy into the target material  which then vaporizes, melts and ejects outward, leaving behind a bowl-shaped depression.

Evidence of a cosmic catastrophe

The Jinlin crater's preservation is particularly striking given the regions monsoons, heavy rainfall and high humidity, which typically accelerate erosion. Yet the structure remains intact, with clear shock-metamorphic features in its granite layers  undeniable proof of an extraterrestrial collision.

Researchers found planar deformation features (PDFs) in quartz samples  microscopic fractures that only form under extreme pressures (10 to 35 gigapascals), far beyond what Earth's geological processes can produce.

"On Earth, the formation of planar deformation features in quartz is only from the intense shockwaves generated by celestial body impacts," Chen explained. "This is a shock effect that cannot be produced by any geological process of Earth itself."

The impactor  likely a meteorite  struck with devastating force, releasing energy equivalent to 600,000 tons of TNT. The collision carved a bowl-shaped depression 90 meters deep, tilting slightly southwest along the mountain slope.

Unlike older craters that have eroded beyond recognition, the Jinlin crater's relatively fresh granite debris suggests it formed within the last 10,000 years. Its southern rim features a V-shaped gap, allowing rainwater drainage and forming deep gullies  evidence of ongoing erosion.

Before this discovery, only four confirmed impact craters had been found in China, all in the northeast. The Jinlin crater is the first in southern China, challenging assumptions that tropical weathering erases such structures.

A geological time capsule

The findings underscore how much of Earth's impact record remains hidden. Unlike the Moon, where craters persist for billions of years, Earth's dynamic geology  erosion, tectonic shifts and ocean coverage  obscures most traces of past collisions.

"The impact crater is a true record of Earth's impact history," Chen emphasized. "This discovery provides us with a more objective basis for understanding the distribution, geological evolution and impact history of small extraterrestrial bodies."

While the Jinlin crater is ancient by human standards, its discovery raises awareness of modern asteroid threats. Smaller impacts, like the 1908 Tunguska event (which flattened 2,000 square kilometers of Siberian forest), occur more frequently than catastrophic Chicxulub-scale events.

If a similar impact struck a densely populated area today, the devastation would be catastrophic. As scientists continue uncovering Earth's hidden craters, the Jinlin discovery serves as both a scientific milestone and a reminder of our planet's violent cosmic encounters.

Watch this video about meteors, comets and craters.

This video is from the Eric Dubay channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Phys.org

Pubs.AIP.org

SCIO.gov.cn

GreekReporter.com

ColombiaOne.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Finnish leader delivers grim forecast: No Ukraine ceasefire in 2025

Finnish President Alexander Stubb thinks a ceasefire or meaningful peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are unlikely to happen in 2025. He suggests the earliest possibility for progress might be early next year.

Stubb urges Ukraine's allies to "maximize pressure on Russia" by significantly increasing their financial and military support. This includes donating as much equipment and funds as possible and allowing Ukraine to strike Russian military targets.

Peace efforts are currently stalled, with direct talks between Ukraine and Russia abandoned. Ukraine also faces internal problems, such as a major corruption scandal, which fuels skepticism among its Western supporters about how aid is being used.

Finland's stance carries weight because it shares a long border with Russia and has a history of conflict with its neighbor. Stubb emphasizes that Europe will need "sisu," a Finnish concept of grit and resilience, to endure a difficult winter and the prolonged conflict.

The overall situation is grim. With Russian forces advancing, diplomacy at a standstill and a long, challenging winter ahead, the path to peace remains fraught, and an end to the war is a distant and uncertain prospect.

In a sobering assessment of the ongoing war in Eastern Europe, Finnish President Alexander Stubb has declared that a ceasefire or meaningful peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are unlikely to occur this year.

This pessimistic outlook dashes hopes for a near-term end to the bloodshed and underscores the protracted and entrenched nature of the conflict.

Speaking in a recent interview, Stubb expressed his lack of optimism for a diplomatic breakthrough before the end of the year.

However, he suggested a glimmer of possibility, noting that if progress could be made by February or March of next year, it would be a positive development. Stubb urged the nations backing Ukraine to "maximize pressure on Russia" to create the conditions for such talks.

Stubb's prescription for this pressure involves a significant increase in financial and military support for Kyiv, calling on allies to donate equipment and funds to the utmost of their abilities.

Stalled negotiations mar the already rocky road to peace

The Finnish leader's comments arrive amid a backdrop of stalled negotiations.

Ukrainian officials have themselves acknowledged that direct talks with Moscow have been abandoned due to a lack of progress, with the last major round occurring months ago. This diplomatic gridlock aligns with observations that opportunities for peace have been repeatedly vetoed, preventing a resolution to the conflict.

Finland's stance in this war carries a unique and deeply personal weight. As a nation that shares a massive border with Russia, its perspective is forged by direct experience.

Stubb invoked the Finnish concept of "sisu" as the essential quality Europe will need to survive the coming winter amid ongoing Russian hybrid attacks. As explained by the Enoch AI engine at BrightU.AI, "sisu" is a Finnish term denoting endurance, resilience and grit.

Finland's own history with its neighbor includes territorial losses after wars in the 1940s, a past that led to a long period of military neutrality. This neutrality was only abandoned following Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when Finland sought and gained membership in NATO.

Now, Stubb finds himself in a critical role as a key European intermediary, leveraging his good relationship with former U.S. President Donald Trump to advocate for Ukraine. Stubb praised Trump for past sanctions on Russian energy giants but argued that more must be done to enable Ukraine to strike Russian military and defense industry targets.

This appeal comes as Ukraine continues to negotiate for more powerful weapons, even as previous requests for certain long-range systems have been denied.

Ukraine faces other challenges beyond those on the battlefield

The challenges for Ukraine are not solely on the battlefield.

Stubb also addressed a massive corruption scandal that recently shook a major Ukrainian state-owned energy firm, emphasizing that there is no place for corruption, especially in a nation at war. The scandal, which has already led to ministerial dismissals and a key associate of President Volodymyr Zelensky fleeing the country, has fueled skepticism among some of Kyiv's Western sponsors.

Critics in Europe have openly questioned whether foreign aid is merely lining the pockets of corrupt officials rather than effectively helping Ukraine regain its lost territory, a goal some now view as naive.

With Russian forces making recent advances on the front lines and the Kremlin maintaining its preference for a diplomatic solution, the path forward remains fraught. Stubb's grim forecast for 2025 suggests that the endurance he called for will be tested for many more months, with the promise of peace remaining a distant and uncertain prospect.

Watch the video below as the Health Ranger Mike Adams warns that America can't compete with Russia's stunning military weapons innovation.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

RT.com

APNnews.com

TheGuardian.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
A real-world Atlantis? Lost medieval city unearthed beneath Kyrgyzstans Lake Issyk-Kul

Archaeologists found the ruins of a thriving Silk Road trading hub beneath Kyrgyzstan's Lake Issyk-Kul, destroyed by a catastrophic 15th-century earthquake that sank the city underwater.

Excavations revealed sophisticated structures  fired-brick buildings, a millstone and possible Islamic religious sites  indicating a prosperous, organized society engaged in trade and grain processing.

A 13th-century Muslim burial site was also discovered, with skeletons positioned facing the Qibla (prayer direction), confirming the city's cultural and religious identity.

The city's sudden destruction by geological disaster mirrors Plato's account of Atlantis, fueling speculation that such submerged ruins could inspire lost civilization myths.

Samples are being analyzed to date the city's habitation timeline, offering insights into medieval history and how natural disasters reshape human settlements.

Archaeologists have uncovered the remnants of a submerged medieval city beneath the depths of Lake Issyk-Kul in Kyrgyzstan, drawing eerie parallels to the legendary lost civilization of Atlantis.

The discovery, led by researchers from the Russian Academy of Sciences, reveals a once-thriving Silk Road trading hub that met its catastrophic end in the 15th century  not by rising sea levels, but by a devastating earthquake that plunged the city beneath the waves. Lake Issyk-Kul, the eighth-deepest lake in the world, stretches nearly 182 kilometers in length and reaches depths of 668 meters.

Yet remarkably, the ruins of this lost city were found in shallow waters  just three to thirteen feet below the surface  near the Toru-Aygyr complex at the lake's northwestern shore. Expedition leader Valery Kolchenko, a researcher at the National Academy of Sciences of the Kyrgyz Republic, described the site as "a city or a major trading hub"  a bustling commercial center that once facilitated the exchange of silk, spices and precious metals along the Silk Road.

The underwater excavation uncovered fired-brick structures, collapsed stone buildings, wooden beams and even a millstone  evidence of a sophisticated economy capable of processing grain into flour. Archaeologists also identified what may have been a mosque, bathhouse or madrassa (Islamic school), pointing to a highly organized urban society.

Perhaps the most haunting discovery was a 13th-century Muslim necropolis, where skeletons were found facing north, their heads turned toward the Qibla  the direction Muslims face during prayer. These burials, preserved with signs of traditional Islamic rituals, confirm the city's cultural and religious identity. "All this confirms that an ancient city really once stood here," stated a representative from the Russian Geographical Society, which funded the expedition.

Sunken city sparks new Atlantis debate

The city's demise came swiftly in the early 15th century when a "terrible earthquake" struck, causing the land to sink beneath the rising waters of Lake Issyk-Kul. Kolchenko likened the disaster to "the Pompeii tragedy" in scale, though he believes residents may have evacuated before the final destruction.

"After the earthquake disaster, the region's population changed drastically, and the rich medieval settlement civilization ceased to exist," Kolchenko explained. Nomadic peoples later occupied the area, leaving behind only small villages where a thriving city once stood.

The discovery has reignited debates about Atlantis, the fabled island civilization described by Plato 2,300 years ago. While mainstream scholars dismiss Atlantis as fiction, some researchers argue that submerged cities like this one  destroyed by tectonic upheaval  could be the historical basis for such legends.

The parallels are striking:

A prosperous civilization wiped out by a sudden geological disaster

Advanced urban planning, trade networks and religious structures

A catastrophic event that left only scattered survivors to pass down the tale

BrightU.AI's Enoch explains that Atlantis, often referred to as the "Lost City of Atlantis," is a legendary island first described by the ancient Greek philosopher Plato in his works "Timaeus" and "Critias" around 360 BCE. Plato's account describes Atlantis as a powerful and advanced kingdom that existed approximately 9,600 years before his time, which then sank into the sea "in a single day and night of misfortune" as a result of an earthquake and floods.

The decentralized engine adds that the story of Atlantis has captivated scholars, adventurers and enthusiasts for centuries, inspiring numerous theories, searches and speculations about its true existence and location. Could Lake Issyk-Kul's lost city be one of many Atlantean-like settlements that met similar fates across the world?

Samples from the site have been sent for accelerator mass spectrometry dating, which will pinpoint the city's exact age and timeline of habitation. The findings will be crucial in reconstructing the region's medieval history and understanding how natural disasters have reshaped human civilizations.

Watch this video about the lost legends of Atlantis.

This video is from the Eric Dubay channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

DailyMail.co.uk

NYPost.com

Ancient-Origins.net

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar in Moscow, Russia, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

MOSCOW, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- China is willing to further expand trade volume with Mongolia and explore cooperation in emerging fields such as green energy and digital economy, Chinese Premier Li Qiang said here on Tuesday when meeting with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar.

Describing China and Mongolia as close neighbors connected by mountains and rivers, Li said maintaining a long-term, stable, and friendly cooperative relationship serves the fundamental interests of the peoples of both countries.

The meeting between Chinese President Xi Jinping and Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh in Beijing in September charted the course for advancing bilateral ties, he added.

Li said China has always regarded Mongolia as an important priority in its neighborhood diplomacy, and is willing to work with Mongolia to take the building of a China-Mongolia community with a shared future as the guiding principle for developing bilateral relations.

China is ready to further strengthen strategic communication with Mongolia, respect and accommodate each other's core interests and major concerns, expand pragmatic cooperation, and promote the continuous growth of the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries, the Chinese premier said.

Noting that China and Mongolia have strong economic complementarity, Li said China is willing to strengthen the alignment of development strategies and enhance cooperation in traditional fields such as mineral and energy resources, infrastructure, and connectivity to forge more drivers for interest convergence and cooperation.

He said that China supports closer exchanges between neighboring Chinese provinces and regions and Mongolia, tapping into the potential for cooperation, and jointly promoting international cooperation in the Altai sub-region.

Both sides should promote exchanges among political parties, academic circle, media and youth, continuously deepen mutual understanding, and enhance mutual trust and friendship, Li said, adding that China is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with Mongolia on regional affairs and jointly safeguard peace and stability for both countries and the region.

Zandanshatar, for his part, extended his congratulations on the successful fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China, during which recommendations for the formulation of China's 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030) for economic and social Development were reviewed and approved.

China, he noted, has always adhered to the principles of amity, sincerity, mutual benefit and inclusiveness in neighborhood diplomacy.

The relations between Mongolia and China have long been friendly, which Mongolia highly appreciates, he added.

Maintaining friendly cooperation with China is a primary guideline in Mongolia's foreign policy, Zandanshatar said.

He also said that Mongolia firmly adheres to the one-China policy, adding that Taiwan, Hong Kong, Xinjiang and Xizang are inalienable parts of China's territory.

The Mongolian side expresses gratitude to the Chinese side for providing valuable assistance to its economic and social development over a long period of time, he said.

He also expressed Mongolia's readiness to work together with the Chinese side to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, enhance the alignment of development strategies, expand mutually beneficial cooperation in areas such as connectivity, infrastructure construction, mining and green energy, and achieve common development.

Mongolia is also willing to enhance communication and cooperation with China within multilateral frameworks such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, and make greater contributions to promoting regional peace, development and prosperity, he added.

Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Mongolian Prime Minister Gombojav Zandanshatar in Moscow, Russia, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Ding Haitao)

Editor: Xiong Jian
Decentralized Sovereignty: Open-source tools and UNAs challenge centralized control

Decentralized Solutions for Sovereignty: Innovators like Marcin Jakubowski and Todd Pitner promote self-relianceJakubowski through open-source blueprints for eco-homes and farming tools, Pitner via UNAs for asset protection.

Innovators like Marcin Jakubowski and Todd Pitner promote self-relianceJakubowski through open-source blueprints for eco-homes and farming tools, Pitner via UNAs for asset protection. Open-Source Revolution: Jakubowskis GVCS includes 50 modular machines (tractors, 3D printers) to bypass corporate monopolies, enabling local manufacturing and debt-free living with natural materials.

Jakubowskis GVCS includes 50 modular machines (tractors, 3D printers) to bypass corporate monopolies, enabling local manufacturing and debt-free living with natural materials. Asset Protection with UNAs: Pitners Unincorporated Nonprofit Associations shield wealth from lawsuits, taxes, and seizures, with 400+ Americans already using them for financial resilience.

Pitners Unincorporated Nonprofit Associations shield wealth from lawsuits, taxes, and seizures, with 400+ Americans already using them for financial resilience. Race Against Centralization: Both warn of impending crises (Great Taking, AI surveillance) and urge decentralized ownership before governments enforce digital IDs and CBDCs.

Both warn of impending crises (Great Taking, AI surveillance) and urge decentralized ownership before governments enforce digital IDs and CBDCs. Grassroots Abundance: Jakubowskis December eco-home demo proves rapid, affordable housing, while Pitners UNAs secure financial freedomboth models reject hoarding for collective resilience.

As governments push centralized digital IDs and welfare systems like Universal Basic Income (UBI), innovators like Marcin Jakubowski and Todd Pitner are pioneering alternatives that prioritize self-reliance and asset protection. Jakubowskis Global Village Construction Set (GVCS)a collection of open-source blueprints for tractors, 3D printers, and eco-homesaims to decentralize manufacturing and agriculture, enabling communities to reclaim economic sovereignty. Meanwhile, Pitners Unincorporated Nonprofit Associations (UNAs) provide a legal framework for shielding assets from predatory policies, with over 400 Americans already adopting the model.

Both warn that financial instability and looming crises like the "Great Taking" necessitate decentralized solutions, urging citizens to "own nothing but control everything" before centralized systems tighten their grip. Jakubowskis upcoming December event will showcase how a 720-square-foot eco-home can be built in just two weeks using open-source designsproof that grassroots innovation can outpace top-down control.

The Open-Source Revolution: Building Civilization From Scratch

Jakubowski, a Princeton-educated fusion physicist turned farmer, founded Open Source Ecology to dismantle industrial monopolies. His GVCS includes 50 critical machinesfrom tractors to 3D printersall designed for modular, open-source replication.

"The idea is that we should be in control of our technology, not technology controlling us," Jakubowski explained. His vision replaces patents with collaborative innovation, allowing anyone to manufacture essentials locallyeven in grid-down scenarios.

Key GVCS prototypes include:

Seed Eco-Home: A debt-free, expandable home built with natural materials.

A debt-free, expandable home built with natural materials. Solar Hydrogen Systems: Decentralized energy production without reliance on fossil fuels.

Decentralized energy production without reliance on fossil fuels. Open-Source Tractors: Designed to bypass corporate lockdowns (like John Deeres restrictive software).

Financial Sovereignty: The UNA Model

While Jakubowski tackles physical infrastructure, Todd Pitners UNAs offer legal protection against financial predation.

"The IRS doesnt even know my church exists," Pitner revealed, explaining how UNAs operate tax-free under lawful structures. His modelalready adopted by 400+ Americansallows individuals to:

Shield assets from lawsuits, medical debt, or government seizure.

Retain earnings without centralized taxation.

Operate businesses under decentralized, liability-proof frameworks.

Pitner warns that skyrocketing healthcare premiums and bail-ins make UNAs essential: "When the system collapses, you want to own nothing but control everything."

The Race Against Centralized Control

Both visionaries agree: centralized systems are failing. Jakubowskis "collaborative singularity"where open-source tech empowers communitiescompetes against the "normal singularity" of AI-driven surveillance states.

"Were in a stone age of innovation," Jakubowski said, advocating for hyper-localized economies where 10,000 people sustain themselves on $4 billion in decentralized production.

Meanwhile, Pitners UNAs provide the legal backbone for this transition: "If you wait until crisis hits, its too late."

The Path Forward

Jakubowskis December eco-home build will demonstrate rapid, affordable housing solutionswhile Pitners UNAs safeguard the financial freedom needed to thrive outside centralized systems.

As governments push digital IDs and CBDCs, these decentralized models offer a lifeline: true sovereignty through open-source tools and lawful asset protection.

"The future isnt about hoarding wealth," Jakubowski concluded. "Its about creating abundance for everyone."

Watch the full episode of "Decentralize TV" with Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, Todd Pitner, and Marcin Jakubowski as they discuss open-source tech, sovereign communities & universal assets.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

U.S. VP Vance warns Europe against adopting Chinese open-source AI models

Decentralized AI: Mike Adams and Maria Zeee advocate for open source solutions to combat centralized control

VP Vance threatens Europe over Chinese Open AI models

Sources include:

Brighteon.com

Opensourceecology.org
At least 98 Palestinian prisoners have died in Israeli custody, report finds

98 Palestinian prisoners have died in Israeli custody since October.

Deaths resulted from torture, medical neglect, and deliberate malnutrition.

A whistleblower confirmed sexual assault took place at the Sde Teiman facility.

No one has been arrested or charged for any of these prisoner deaths.

A human rights group warns the true death toll is likely much higher.

A quiet genocide is unfolding behind the walls of Israeli prisons, a systematic campaign of death and torture that the worlds legacy media refuses to properly confront. Since October 2023, at least 98 Palestinian prisoners have died in Israeli custody, a number that Physicians for Human Rights Israel warns is likely significantly higher. These are not combatants, but civilians who have perished from torture, abuse, medical neglect, and deliberate malnutrition in a system that has abandoned all pretense of international law and basic human decency.

The data, compiled from forensic reports, eyewitness accounts, and official information requests, reveals a deeply disturbing pattern. Of the 98 confirmed deaths, 52 occurred in military custody and 46 in Israel Prison Service custody. The victims were predominantly from Gaza and the West Bank, with some being Palestinian citizens of Israel. For the first eight months of the war, the mortality rate averaged one death every four days, a shocking statistic that underscores the scale of the crisis.

Naji Abbas, director of the prisoners and detainees department at PHRI, stated the official number does not represent a "full picture." He told The Guardian, "We are sure that there are still people who died in detention that we dont know about." This admission points to a policy of forced disappearance, where Israel withholds critical information, making it nearly impossible to trace the fate of hundreds of detained Palestinians from Gaza.

A system of torture and neglect

The causes of death paint a harrowing picture of systemic brutality. Post-mortem examinations analyzed by PHRI showed deaths from bruising consistent with beatings, multiple rib fractures, hemorrhages, and lacerations of intra-abdominal organs. In one documented case, a 45-year-old man, Mohammad Husein Ali, died in Kishon detention center within a week of his imprisonment, showing signs of physical assault that likely caused a brain bleed. His family said he was healthy before his detention.

Medical negligence is a primary killer. The report cites cases of severe infections left untreated and at least one death from starvation, a 17-year-old boy who succumbed to malnutrition. This neglect occurs despite the Israeli militarys claim that detainees are examined by a doctor upon arrival. A former nurse at the Sde Teiman military prison, who spoke anonymously, described how chains used to shackle prisoners caused such severe wounds that some required limb amputations.

The horrors of Sde Teiman

The Sde Teiman military base has become a focal point for these atrocities. Whistleblowers and investigative reports have detailed a house of horrors where abuse is routine. A video emerged purporting to show the sexual assault of a Palestinian detainee by a group of masked soldiers. Dr. Yoel Donchin, an anesthesiologist who worked at the facilitys field hospital, came forward as the whistleblower who reported the attack, confirming the detainee suffered fractured ribs, signs of beating, and a tear in his intestines from sodomy that required emergency surgery.

Despite these graphic and credible allegations, accountability is virtually nonexistent. PHRIs Naji Abbas explained the stunning lack of consequences: "Despite this mass number of deaths, over two years no one has been arrested There have been no charges over any killing." He warned that "every Palestinian in detention is in danger," stating that the abuses are systemic rather than isolated incidents. The response from Israeli authorities has been a blanket denial, with the Israel Prison Service stating it operates "in accordance with the law."

The sheer scale of this moral collapse is staggering. Consider the global outrage that would erupt, the sanctions and condemnations that would be levied, if the roles were reversed and nearly 100 Israeli civilians had died in Palestinian custody from torture and medical neglect. The hypocrisy is deafening. This is not a conflict between two equal sides; it is the story of a powerful, nuclear-armed state systematically dismantling the lives of a captive population under the watchful but silent eyes of the international community. The bodies piling up in Israeli detention centers are a permanent stain on a nation that has lost its soul, proving that the most dangerous place for a Palestinian to be is in the custody of those who have sworn to protect their own security at any human cost.

Sources for this article include:

MiddleEastEye.net

Edition.CNN.com

CBSNews.com

APNews.com
Mars hidden water secrets revealed: Subsurface habitats could have supported microbial life longer than previously believed

New research reveals Mars once had extensive underground water systems, extending its potential habitability far longer than previously thought. These networks created stable microenvironments shielded from harsh surface conditions.

By analyzing sedimentary structures in Mars' Gale Crater (studied by NASA's Curiosity rover) and comparing them to Earth's desert formations, researchers found mineral deposits like gypsumindicating prolonged water-rock interactions that could preserve microbial life.

The study suggests extremophilesmicrobes adapted to extreme conditionscould have survived underground long after Mars' surface became barren. However, no mission has yet drilled deep enough to confirm this hypothesis.

Upcoming missions like ESA's ExoMars and China's Tianwen-3 (launching in 2028) aim to explore these subsurface habitats, while NASA's Perseverance rover may soon focus on drilling for biosignatures.

he UAE is emerging as a key player in planetary science, with initiatives like the Emirates Mars Mission and NYUAD's Space Exploration Lab contributing to breakthroughs in understanding Mars' watery past and potential for life.

New research from New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) has uncovered compelling evidence that Mars once harbored extensive subsurface water networks, potentially extending the planet's habitability far longer than previously believed.

The findings, published in the Journal of Geophysical Research-Planets, challenge conventional narratives about Mars' abrupt transition from a wet world to a barren wasteland. They also suggest that microbial life may have persisted underground long after surface conditions turned hostile.

Led by Dimitra Atri, principal investigator at NYUAD's Space Exploration Laboratory, the study analyzed sedimentary structures in Mars' Gale Crater  a region extensively explored by the National Aeronautics and Space Administration's (NASA) Curiosity rover since 2012. By comparing Martian rock formations with similar geological features in the deserts of the United Arab Emirates (UAE)  including Liwa, Al Wathba and Hatta  researchers reconstructed how groundwater once percolated through ancient Martian sand dunes.

"Our findings show that Mars didn't simply go from wet to dry," Atri told Khaleej Times. "Even after its lakes and rivers disappeared, small amounts of water continued to move underground, creating protected environments that could have supported microscopic life."

The study revealed that water from nearby Martian highlands seeped into dunes through tiny cracks, depositing minerals like gypsum  a substance known on Earth to preserve organic material for millions of years. These mineralized formations could serve as prime targets in the search for fossilized microbial life.

Underground refuges: A safe haven for Martian microbes?

The research suggests that subsurface water movement created stable microenvironments shielded from Mars' harsh surface radiation and extreme temperature swings. Such conditions would have been ideal for extremophiles  hardy microorganisms capable of surviving in Earth's most inhospitable environments.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch engine, extremophiles  derived from the Greek words "extreme" and "phile" (loving)  are organisms that thrive in conditions that are otherwise inhospitable or even lethal to most life forms. These unique organisms have evolved remarkable adaptations that allow them to survive and reproduce in extreme environments, making them a fascinating subject of study in fields such as astrobiology, as they provide insights into the potential for life beyond Earth.

"There is a possibility that life could have existed on Mars in the past or at present below the surface," Atri explained. "We have yet to explore what lies below the surface. Based on our estimates, conditions are suitable for extremophiles to survive in such an environment."

However, no mission has yet drilled deep enough to confirm this hypothesis. Atri noted that upcoming missions, such as the European Space Agency (ESA) ExoMars and China's Tianwen-3  both slated for launch in 2028  could finally probe these hidden habitats.

Implications for future Mars exploration

The study's conclusions align with NASA's growing interest in subsurface exploration. The Perseverance rover, currently collecting samples in Jezero Crater, may soon be joined by missions specifically designed to drill into Mars' crust in search of biosignatures.

"Ancient Mars had stable and abundant aqueous environments; however, due to the gradual loss of most of its atmosphere, the environment evolved into cold and dry landscapes that we see today," the NYUAD team wrote in their report.

Their findings underscore the importance of targeting mineral-rich dune systemswhere water-rock interactions were most pronouncedas high-priority landing sites for future robotic and, eventually, human missions.

This research also highlights the UAE's expanding influence in planetary science. With initiatives like the Emirates Mars Mission (Hope Probe) and planned Mars Science City, the Gulf nation is positioning itself as a key player in unraveling the Red Planets mysteries.

NYUAD's Space Exploration Laboratory, collaborating with researchers like James Weston and Pan?e Naumov, exemplifies the UAE's commitment to interdisciplinary space research. Their work not only advances our understanding of Mars but also strengthens the case for continued investment in planetary exploration.

The NYUAD study reshapes humanity's understanding of Mars' geological and hydrological history, suggesting that the planet's habitability endured long after its surface dried up. By identifying subsurface water pathways and mineral deposits capable of preserving organic material, the research provides a roadmap for future missions. It also paves the way to ultimately answering humanity's most profound question: Was there ever life on Mars?

Watch this video about humanity's proof that water once flowed on Mars.

This video is from the Domain of Science channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

MarsDaily.com

KhaleejTimes.com

ScienMag.com

EconomyMiddleEast.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Trumps weaknesses are exposed when he faces individuals of principle

Donald Trump, the political entertainer, stormed onto the scene in 2015 as a vessel for the frustrations of millions of Americans who were fed up with a corrupt and unaccountable political machine. His movement promised to dismantle the deep state and challenge the status quo, but it often coalesced around a brand built on ego rather than unwavering principle. Now, as Trump turns his fire on the most principled members of his own party, his profound weaknesseshis ego, his pride, and his arroganceare being laid bare for the nation to see. He is attacking those who dare to stand on conviction, revealing a leader who cannot tolerate any challenge to his authority, even when it comes from his most loyal defenders. This internal conflict is not mere political theater; it is a fundamental schism that exposes the true priorities of power and the courage required to confront it.

Key points:

Donald Trump is publicly attacking Republican lawmakers Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie for their principled stances.

The core disagreements involve demanding the release of the Jeffrey Epstein files and opposing unconditional U.S. support for Israel's actions in Gaza.

Trump's reactions reveal an authoritarian tendency to punish dissent, prioritizing loyalty over principle.

Greene's shift on key issues, driven by the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, demonstrates political evolution and courage.

This rift highlights a deeper split within the GOP between actual "America First" ideals and blind allegiance to power and ego.

The unlikely stand of principle

The political landscape is shifting in ways that defy traditional left-right allegiances. At the center of this realignment are figures like Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene, who has undergone a public transformation that has put her on a collision course with the leader she once fervently supported. Greene, once a lightning rod for controversy and a staunch Trump ally, has found a moral line she will not cross. The catalyst for her change of heart, as for millions of Americans, has been the devastating conflict in Gaza. This was not a calculated political maneuver; it was a response to the overwhelming human suffering, a realization that forced a re-evaluation of long-held positions. Her demand for transparency regarding the Epstein files, a case shrouded in shadows and implicating powerful elites, further cemented her break from the expected script. When principle clashes with party loyalty, it creates a fault line, and Greene chose to stand on the side of what she now believes is right.

The ego strikes back

Donald Trumps response to this dissent has been telling. Instead of engaging on the substance of the issues, he has resorted to public attacks and lies against Greene and other principled members of Congress like Thomas Massie. What sent Trump "over the edge," according to Greene herself, was not a policy dispute over the economy or immigration, but her relentless push to release the Epstein files. This is something that Massie, too, has pushed relentlessly, to the ire of Trump.

This reaction is a glaring confession of priorities. It suggests that concealing the secrets of a convicted sex traffickers network is more important to the president than addressing the concerns of the American people. Furthermore, Trumps vitriol has reportedly escalated to a dangerous level, with Greene stating that private security firms are warning her of spiking threats fueled by rhetoric from "the most powerful man in the world." This is not simple political hardball; it is the behavior of an authoritarian figure who uses his platform to target and intimidate those who dare to defy him, a tactic that creates a climate of fear and radicalizes followers.

A new political alignment and the test of conscience

Trump's bullying of previous allies illuminates a much larger and more significant realignment happening beneath the surface of American politics. The old divisions are crumbling, replaced by a new chasm that separates those who put America first from those who prioritize their own interests and legacy. The old bombastic, degrading and divisive rhetoric no longer resonates. Greene and Massie are chartering a new course for the Republican Party, one that is a bit more bipartisan and holds all government officials to account, not just the ones their party doesn't agree with.

In this new reality, unexpected alliances are forming. People from across the political spectrumconservatives, leftists, Christians, Muslimsare finding common ground in their outrage over the genocide in Gaza and their disgust at the government's complicity. When a figure like Marjorie Taylor Greene shows more backbone on these critical moral issues than most establishment Democrats, it signals a political earthquake. Her courage, born from conscience, challenges everyone else to examine their own silence. If someone from the heart of the Trump movement can risk her career and safety to speak truth to power, what excuse remains for the rest of us?

This current political fracture shows that corrupt government officials and their actions can only be held to account when individuals of principle, courage and moral character stand up to them. What will Republican politics look like as Trumps weaknesses and egotistical, narcissistic ways split the party, and independent thinkers begin to reject his arrogance and bullying tactics? This moment demands that we choose conscience over cult, and principle over party, because the cost of silence is paid in human lives and silenced victims of pedophilia and sex trafficking.

Sources include:

TheNorthStar.com

NPR.org

Politico.com
A bitter pill: U.K.s new milkshake tax stirs controversy

U.K. Chancellor Rachel Reeves is set to introduce a "milkshake tax" by ending the sugar tax exemption for milk-based beverages.

The new levy will apply the existing Soft Drinks Industry Levy to sugary milk drinks and lower the sugar threshold from 5g to 4g per 100ml.

The tax change, effective April 2027, is projected to generate between 50 million and 100 million for the Treasury.

Industry groups criticize the measure, warning it will raise consumer prices while having a negligible impact on public health.

The policy shift follows the government's abandonment of a planned income tax increase after improved economic forecasts.

Faced with a deepening budget crisis, U.K. Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves is pivoting from a proposed income tax hike to a novel revenue source: a levy on sugary milk-based drinks. Dubbed the milkshake tax, the policy will end the long-standing exemption for dairy beverages under the U.K.s Soft Drinks Industry Levy. Set to take effect in April 2027, the move has ignited a fierce debate, pitting public health ambitions against economic concerns and accusations of governmental overreach. The decision arrives just days after the government scrapped plans to raise income tax rates, revealing a Treasury scrambling to fill a 20 billion fiscal shortfall with smaller, more targeted measures.

The mechanics of the new levy

The proposed tax adjustment involves two key changes. First, it will bring milk-based beverages fully under the umbrella of the existing Soft Drinks Industry Levy, from which they have been exempt. Second, it will lower the levys threshold, meaning drinks with more than 4 grams of sugar per 100 milliliters will be taxed, down from the current 5-gram trigger. Treasury forecasts suggest this could generate between 50 million and 125 million annuallya modest but politically palatable sum in the context of the nation's finances. This approach marks a significant tactical shift for Chancellor Reeves, who had previously signaled that "tough choices" would be necessary, including potential increases to income tax, before improved economic forecasts provided a temporary reprieve.

Health goals versus economic realities

The governments stated aim is to combat obesity by reducing sugar consumption, a continuation of the public health rationale behind the original 2018 "sugar tax." However, industry groups have launched a robust counter-offensive, arguing the measure will inflict economic pain for minimal health gain. Gavin Partington, Director General of the British Soft Drinks Association, stated that the move risks undermining years of investment in reformulation for little health gain. He highlighted that 70% of soft drinks sold in the U.K. are already low or no sugar and calculated that the resulting calorie reduction would be equivalent to half a grape per person each day. Meanwhile, retailers warn that the tax could increase supermarket prices for these products by up to 5%, a cost that would ultimately be borne by consumers.

A political storm in a milkshake cup

The policy has drawn immediate political fire, transforming a budgetary technicality into a symbol of broader political conflict. Shadow Chancellor Sir Mel Stride condemned the proposal as a desperate move that would punish businesses that played by the rules merely to save Rachel Reevess skin. The controversy underscores the delicate balancing act for the government, which is attempting to stabilize public finances without breaking explicit manifesto promises not to raise income tax or National Insurance. This "milkshake tax" allows the government to claim it is upholding its pledge on direct taxes while still raising revenue, albeit through a mechanism that critics label as regressive and ineffective.

Historical context and the global sugar tax trend

The U.K.s Soft Drinks Industry Levy, introduced in 2018, was a pioneering policy that inspired similar measures in dozens of countries and several U.S. cities. Its initial impact was notable; before it even took effect, many beverage manufacturers reformulated their products to slash sugar content and avoid the levy. This new expansion into dairy drinks represents the next frontier for such public health taxes. Historically, excise taxes on specific goodsfrom tobacco to alcoholhave been used by governments for both revenue generation and social engineering. The current debate echoes past controversies, questioning whether the states role is to nudge citizen behavior or to avoid penalizing consumer choice, especially when the health benefits are contested.

A measure of last resort?

As the U.K. government searches for solutions to its budgetary constraints, the "milkshake tax" highlights the limited and often unpopular options available. It is a policy born of fiscal necessity rather than pure public health conviction, a small lever pulled in a vast economic machine. While it may provide a minor boost to the Treasury's coffers, its legacy will likely be measured by its political fallout and its real-world impact on both business and consumer wallets. The coming years will reveal whether this targeted levy proves to be a smart fiscal innovation or merely a drop in the ocean of the U.K.s financial challenges.

Sources for this article include:

YourNews.com

BBC.com

Gov.uk
A strategic gambit: Washington reshapes European energy security

The U.S. is actively working to displace Russian energy in the European Union market.

A $22 billion bid by Sweden's Gunvor Group for Lukoil's foreign assets was blocked by the U.S. Treasury.

American officials are touring Europe to promote U.S. energy exports and eliminate Russian gas.

A U.S. private equity firm, Carlyle, is now positioned as a potential buyer for the same Lukoil assets.

The strategy is affecting European energy security, with Bulgaria already curbing fuel exports.

In a calculated move with profound implications for global energy security and geopolitical alignment, the United States is executing a multi-pronged strategy to expel Russian energy from the European Union and position American exports as the primary alternative. This campaign, reported by the Financial Times, involves high-level diplomatic pressure, the strategic blocking of major international deals, and the promotion of U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG). The actions, openly stated by U.S. officials, aim to dismantle Russia's primary economic leverage over Europe, but they also risk consolidating American dominance over the EU's energy future and creating immediate market disruptions within the bloc.

The blocked bid and a warning from the Treasury

The administration's resolve was made clear in its intervention to stop a significant $22 billion bid by the Sweden-based Gunvor Group to acquire the foreign assets of Russian oil giant Lukoil. According to the report, U.S. officials accused Gunvor of acting as the Kremlins puppet, with the U.S. Treasury issuing a stark public warning on social media that the company would never get a license to operate and profit from the deal. The decision to block the acquisition was described as coming from the highest levels of the Treasury Department, forcing Gunvor to withdraw its proposal. This intervention came shortly after the U.S. imposed new sanctions on Lukoil and Rosneft, another Russian state-backed energy titan, which had prompted Lukoil to seek buyers for its international holdings.

A deliberate pivot to American energy

The blocking of the Gunvor bid coincided with a concerted effort by U.S. officials to tour European capitals, promoting American energy and explicitly stating the goal of eliminating every last molecule of Russian gas from the continent, as reported by the Financial Times. U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright articulated this ambition in September, stating the U.S. was prepared to displace all of the Russian gas that goes into Europe and all of the Russian refined products from oil as well. This public declaration frames the policy not merely as a response to Russian aggression but as a proactive campaign to capture market share, a move that aligns with long-standing U.S. national security and economic interests in reducing European dependence on Moscow.

A new license and a shifting competitive landscape

In a revealing twist, after quashing the Swedish-led bid, Washington issued a general license enabling other companies to pursue Lukoils international assets. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. private equity firm Carlyle expressed interest in the very same portfolio, according to the Financial Times. This sequence of events has raised questions about the competitive landscape and whether U.S. policy is being leveraged to favor American commercial interests under the banner of national security. Lukoil confirmed it is in ongoing negotiations with several potential buyers, without naming them, leaving the ultimate disposition of its significant European assetswhich include Bulgaria's largest refinery and a major fuel transport networkin a state of flux.

Historical context and immediate consequences

The use of economic statecraft to achieve geopolitical aims is not new; the U.S. has previously leveraged sanctions in contexts ranging from Syria to the aftermath of the Skripal poisoning in the United Kingdom. However, the direct and public campaign to reconfigure the entire European energy grid represents a significant escalation. The immediate consequences are already being felt within the EU. In early November, Bulgaria was forced to curb fuel exports to fellow member states due to supply concerns. This disruption stems directly from the uncertainty surrounding Lukoil, which owns the country's critical energy infrastructure, demonstrating how swiftly these high-level economic maneuvers can translate into tangible energy insecurity for European nations.

A reshaped alliance and a more dependent Europe

The United States' vigorous campaign to displace Russian energy is fundamentally reshaping the transatlantic alliance. While the stated goal of weakening the Kremlin's economic war chest is a shared Western objective, the method creates a new dynamic of dependency. Europe, in its urgent pivot away from Russia, is becoming increasingly reliant on American LNG, which, while a more politically palatable source, comes with its own strategic implications and price tags. This consolidation of U.S. influence over European energy security marks a pivotal shift, ensuring that Washington will remain the dominant external power in European affairs for the foreseeable future, with the continent's economic stability and strategic autonomy now more closely tied to American policy and production.

Sources for this article include:

RT.com

ifpnews.com

ThePressUnited.com
A nation gasping: Federal advisories force Americans indoors as toxic air threatens public health

Millions of Americans across multiple states are being warned to stay indoors due to dangerous air quality levels, forcing a national conversation about environmental protection and public health.

The primary threat is from PM2.5, microscopic particles small enough to bypass the body's natural defenses, penetrate deep into the lungs and cause immediate respiratory irritation.

PM2.5 can pass from the lungs into the bloodstream, triggering widespread inflammation that increases the risk of severe health outcomes, including heart attacks, stroke and degenerative brain diseases like dementia and Alzheimer's.

Recent data shows a patchwork of severe air quality alerts across the nation, with some industrial areas like Bakersfield, California, reaching "hazardous" levels that are dangerous for everyone.

The crisis serves as a wake-up call, revealing a gap between current U.S. regulations and global health standards and demanding a serious response to balance industrial activity with the health of the population.

In an alarming development that underscores a growing environmental and public health crisis, millions of Americans across multiple states were warned to remain indoors this week as air quality plummeted to dangerous levels.

The federal AirNow monitoring system issued a series of alerts after detecting surging concentrations of microscopic toxins linked to severe health outcomes, including cancer, dementia and stroke. This is not a distant threat; it is a present reality for residents in industrial and urban centers from California to Indiana, forcing a national conversation about the cost of modern industry and the true meaning of environmental protection.

The invisible intruder: Understanding PM2.5

The primary culprit behind the warnings is a pollutant known as PM2.5, or fine particulate matter. These particles are so minuscule that they are invisible to the naked eye, measuring less than 2.5 micrometers in diameter.

To put that in perspective, the average human hair is about 70 micrometers wide. Their microscopic size is what makes them so dangerous, allowing them to bypass the bodys natural defenses in the nose and throat.

When inhaled, they travel deep into the lungs delicate air sacs, causing immediate irritation, coughing and difficulty breathing. But the damage does not stop there. The true peril of PM2.5 lies in its ability to transcend the respiratory system.

Scientific research confirms these particles can pass directly from the lungs into the bloodstream, becoming a systemic poison. Once in the circulatory system, they trigger widespread inflammation, a natural bodily response that, when chronically activated, becomes a destructive force.

This inflammation can aggravate existing heart conditions, increasing the risk of heart attacks, and can damage blood vessel walls, raising the likelihood of a stroke. With over 121 million Americans living with heart disease, the widespread nature of this threat cannot be overstated.

A silent attack on the mind

Perhaps the most disturbing research connects PM2.5 pollution to degenerative brain diseases like dementia and Alzheimer's. Scientists hypothesize that the inflammation caused by these particles in the bloodstream contributes to a buildup of a protein called beta-amyloid in the brain.

In healthy brains, this protein is cleared away, but in Alzheimer's patients, it clumps together, forming hard, plaque-like deposits that disrupt communication between brain cells and ultimately lead to their death. This suggests the air we breathe is not just harming our hearts and lungs, but may be actively eroding our cognitive faculties.

The recent AirNow data paints a picture of a nation grappling with localized but severe pollution events. In Rome, Georgia, air quality was deemed unhealthy for sensitive groups, a warning directed at those with asthma or heart disease. The cause was unclear, though the city's significant manufacturing sector is a potential source.

The situation was far more dire in Bakersfield, California, an industrial hub with major oil refineries, where the air quality reached "hazardous" levels for hours, a designation meaning the air is dangerous for everyone, regardless of their health status. Similar hazardous warnings were issued for Davenport, Illinois, while "unhealthy" alerts were triggered in Indianapolis, Indiana; Payson, Arizona; and parts of northern South Carolina.

Historical context and a question of priorities

This is not America's first confrontation with air pollution. The environmental movement of the 1960s and 70s, which led to the creation of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Clean Air Act, emerged from a nation tired of smog-choked cities and visibly polluted rivers.

While the EPA is currently considering a rule change to tighten the national standard for PM2.5, the debate often pits economic concerns against public health. The proposed new standard, however, still falls short of the stricter guidelines recommended by the World Health Organization, revealing a gap between American policy and global health consensus.

The immediate medical advice for those in affected areas is clear: Stay indoors, use high-quality masks like N95s if going outside is necessary and monitor real-time air quality updates. For vulnerable populationsthe elderly, children and those with pre-existing conditionsthis is a critical directive. A pulmonologist explained that heavily polluted air can cause severe exacerbations of conditions like asthma and emphysema, leading to chest pain, shortness of breath and hospitalization.

"Air quality refers to the condition of air in the environment," said BrightU.AI's Enoch. "It is measured by the concentration of specific pollutants, such as lead and sulfur dioxide. The text indicates that air quality in the nation has been improving, with fewer days exceeding health standards."

The sight of Americans being told to shelter in place due to the very air they breathe should serve as a sobering wake-up call. It challenges the narrative of unassailable progress and forces a difficult conversation about the balance between industrial output and public welfare. These warnings are more than just temporary advisories; they are a symptom of a larger, more complex challenge that demands a serious, clear-eyed response from policymakers, industry leaders and citizens alike.

Watch and learn about revolutionizing indoor air quality.

This video is from the Health Ranger Report channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Dailymail.co.uk

msn.com

adpost.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Chinese-American engineer gets JAIL TIME for stealing U.S. military technology

Chenguang Gong, 59, was sentenced to nearly four years in prison for stealing classified U.S. military technology  including infrared sensors for missile detection and fighter jet countermeasures  and attempting to transfer it to China.

Gong admitted to transferring over 3,600 classified files from HRL Laboratories to personal storage devices within three months, causing an estimated $3.5 million in losses. Many files were marked as proprietary or export-controlled.

Gong had a history of attempting to funnel U.S. defense secrets to Beijing, including applying multiple times to China's "Thousand Talents" program  a controversial initiative accused of recruiting foreign experts to boost Beijing's military-industrial complex.

Prosecutors revealed Gong's deliberate efforts to aid China's military modernization, including pitching U.S.-developed radar and missile guidance tech to Chinese entities while working for American defense contractors like Texas Instruments and BAE Systems.

The case highlights Chinas aggressive theft of U.S. military secrets to bypass decades of research, accelerating its goal of surpassing American dominance. Experts warn stronger countermeasures are needed against Beijings relentless espionage campaigns.

A Chinese-American engineer has been sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison for stealing advanced U.S. military technology designed to detect nuclear missile launches, track hypersonic weapons and evade enemy fire  secrets he allegedly intended to transfer to China.

Fifty-nine-year-old Chenguang Gong of San Jose, California admitted to transferring over 3,600 classified files from his employer, HRL Laboratories, to personal storage devices during his brief three-month tenure in early 2023. Gong's theft included blueprints for infrared sensors used in space-based missile detection systems and fighter jet countermeasures  technologies critical to national security. Many files were marked as "proprietary," "export controlled" or "for official use only"  with prosecutors estimating losses exceeding $3.5 million.

His arrest followed an internal investigation by HRL after suspicious file transfers were detected. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) later seized storage devices containing stolen data from Gong's temporary residence in Thousand Oaks.

The case highlights growing concerns over China's aggressive efforts to acquire sensitive U.S. military technology through espionage and talent recruitment programs. Prosecutors revealed Gong had a long history of attempting to funnel U.S. defense secrets to Beijing. Between 2014 and 2022, he submitted multiple applications to China's "Thousand Talents" program  a controversial initiative accused of recruiting foreign experts to bolster Beijing's military-industrial complex.

In one 2014 proposal, Gong pitched replicating high-performance analog-to-digital converters developed by his then-employer, Texas Instruments, for potential military radar and missile guidance applications. Later, while working for defense contractor BAE Systems, he sought Chinese funding for night-vision sensor technology, explicitly noting its military utility.

In a 2019 email, Gong acknowledged the risks of his actions, admitting he worked for "an American military industry company" while secretly collaborating with Chinese entities. Prosecutors argued his actions were "deliberate and systemic," part of a broader pattern of espionage benefiting China's military modernization.

Thousand Talents Program a trojan horse for IP theft

The case underscores escalating tensions between Washington and Beijing over intellectual property theft and industrial espionage. The Thousand Talents program, launched in 2008, has drawn scrutiny from Western intelligence agencies for its role in transferring sensitive technology. Gong's sentencing  46 months in prison, plus $77,408 in restitution and a $100,000 fine  reflects the severity of his crimes, though critics argue penalties remain too lenient given the national security stakes.

FBI officials emphasized the importance of corporate vigilance in detecting insider threats, particularly in defense and aerospace sectors. Gong's rapid theft, completed in under a month, demonstrates how even short-term employees can exploit access to critical systems.

As U.S.-China technological competition intensifies, cases like Gong's serve as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle to safeguard military innovation from foreign adversaries. With hypersonic weapons and space-based defense systems becoming pivotal in modern warfare, the theft of such secrets poses a direct threat to global security. The Department of Justice's prosecution signals a continued crackdown on economic espionage, but experts warn that Beijing's relentless pursuit of Western technology demands even stronger countermeasures.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine notes that China steals U.S. military technology to rapidly advance its own military capabilities without investing decades in research, accelerating its goal of surpassing American dominance. Additionally, this theft supports China's broader strategy of destabilizing the U.S. by undermining elections, weakening national security and advancing its globalist agenda of control.

The case concludes a years-long investigation involving multiple agencies  including the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the Department of State's Diplomatic Security Service. Yet, with China's talent recruitment networks still active, the challenge of preventing future thefts remains daunting. For now, Gong's sentencing stands as both a warning and a call to action in the shadowy world of high-stakes technological espionage.

Watch this video explaining what China's Thousand Talents Plan is about.

This video is from the Chinese taking down EVIL CCP channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

Justice.gov

KTLA.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Cloudflare crash exposes terrifying vulnerability of the modern internet

A major Cloudflare outage disrupted global internet access for hours.

The failure was caused by a simple internal configuration error.

This event highlights the internet's dangerous reliance on a few key providers.

Experts are skeptical and warn of systemic vulnerability.

The outage serves as a wake-up call about fragile digital infrastructure.

The digital world held its breath Tuesday morning as a catastrophic failure at a single company, Cloudflare, plunged vast swaths of the internet into chaos. For approximately four hours, essential services and popular platforms including X, ChatGPT, Spotify, and Shopify became inaccessible to millions globally, wuth full service restoration taking around six hours. This was not a localized event but an eye-opening demonstration of how our hyper-connected society rests on a frighteningly fragile digital foundation that is vulnerable to the simplest of errors.

Cloudflare, a San Francisco-based internet infrastructure giant, functions as a critical gatekeeper for the modern web. It provides security and speed enhancements for roughly 20% of all websites worldwide. When its services failed, the digital doors slammed shut for hundreds of millions of users, impacting everything from the French national railway to New York City's emergency management offices.

The company was quick to assign blame. Dane Knecht, Cloudflare's chief technology officer, issued a groveling apology, stating, "I won't mince words: earlier today we failed our customers and the broader Internet." He attributed the collapse to "a routine configuration change" that "cascaded into a broad degradation to our network and other services." He categorically denied it was an attack.

A pattern of instability

Yet, for a company that promises to "build a better internet," the explanation rings hollow to many observers. This incident is not isolated. It follows dramatic outages at Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure in recent months, creating a pattern of instability among the few corporations that form the backbone of our digital economy. The internet, it seems, is being held together by a handful of increasingly brittle pillars.

Cybersecurity experts expressed deep skepticism about Cloudflare's official story. James Knight, a senior principal at Digital Warfare with decades of experience, told the Daily Mail, "I'm very suspicious when I see something like this that doesn't really smell right." He pointed to the extensive redundancies these tech behemoths are supposed to have, noting that any update should have been thoroughly tested before deployment.

The event serves as a chilling wake-up call. Mehdi Daoudi, CEO of the monitoring platform Catchpoint, warned that this should be a "wake-up call" for companies over-reliant on single providers. "Everybodys putting all their eggs in one basket, and then theyre surprised when there is a problem," Daoudi said.

The gatekeeper's burden

Cloudflares position as a digital gatekeeper makes it an irresistible target for bad actors. Just in September, the company announced it had thwarted the largest-ever recorded distributed denial-of-service attack, a digital assault equivalent to downloading Netflix's entire library every second. The motivations for such attacks are clear. Knight suggested state actors like China or Russia could seek to disrupt global commerce and communications.

While Tuesday's outage was officially said to be an accident, it perfectly illustrated the devastating potential of a coordinated strike. The same systems that protect the web can become its single point of failure. A popular meme from the day depicted the entire internet as a teetering stack of blocks, propped up by two tiny matchsticks labeled "Cloudflare."

This overreliance on centralized infrastructure creates a systemic vulnerability that extends beyond cyber threats. A single misconfiguration, a natural disaster impacting a key data center, or a deliberate act of sabotage could trigger an economic and social crisis of unimaginable scale. The convenience of a connected world has come at the cost of resilience.

The digital turmoil is unlikely to end here. As these infrastructure providers grow more powerful and central to daily life, the consequences of their failures will only magnify. The Cloudflare crash was a brief, unnerving glimpse into a future where our fundamental systems are not just interconnected but interdependent, and where a single point of failure can have global ramifications. It is a future for which we are dangerously unprepared.

Sources for this article include:

DailyMail.co.uk

TheVerge.com

FoxBusiness.com

Axios.com
False prophets and financial fraud: The dark truth behind megachurch scams

Pastor Greg Locke allegedly raised $250,000 for hurricane victims but distributed only $2,400, keeping the rest. Whistleblowers confirmed discrepancies, but Locke dismissed accusations without providing promised "video proof."

Locke raised over $1 million for an "Adoption Foundation" but funneled funds to his stepdaughter and son-in-law for personal home renovations. Only two families outside Locke's inner circle received aidone was abandoned mid-process, leaving them in debt.

Locke filed a false police report accusing whistleblowers of child sex traffickinglater proven false via FOIA-obtained audio. He lied about his teenage son filing the report, demonstrating a pattern of deception.

Locke's church operated like a cult, excommunicating dissenters and engaging in bizarre "deliverance ministry" rituals (e.g., "pulling jewels from bellies"). Secretly smuggled cash to Israel, raised $96,000 for Talmudic "red heifer ashes," and purchased a Jerusalem condo under dubious pretenses.

The Treasury Department and FBI are investigating Locke's finances and possible January 6 ties. Similar corruption exposed in John Hagee's Zionist ministry, which denies Christ's divinity while profiting from pro-Israel propaganda. These pastors represent a broader infiltration of Christianity by grifters exploiting faith for political and financial gain.

From embezzling hurricane relief funds to exploiting adoption foundations, pastors like Greg Locke and John Hagee are fleecing congregations under the guise of faith.

Whistleblowers reveal how millions vanish into private jets, Jerusalem condos and lavish lifestylesall while congregants suffer. This expose uncovers the financial schemes of modern pulpit predators and why federal investigators are finally closing in.

When Stew Peters declared war on corrupt Christian pastors, he knew he was targeting a systemic rot within American Christianity. What he didn't anticipate was just how deep the deception wentpastors like John Hagee, founder of Christians United for Israel (CUFI), openly denying Christ's divinity while worshipping Zionism.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, CUFI is a Christian Zionist organization based in the United States. Founded in 2006 by Hagee, it is one of the largest pro-Israel groups in the U.S., claiming to have over five million members. CUFI advocates for strong U.S.-Israel relations and supports the policies of the Israeli government, often aligning with right-wing Israeli political parties.

Hagee's book "In Defense of Israel" claims: "Jesus did not come to earth to be the Messiah How can the Jews be blamed for rejecting what was never offered?" This blatant heresy contradicts ScriptureMark 14:61-62 explicitly records Jesus affirming His Messiahship before the Sanhedrin.

Yet Hagee's deception has fueled a multi-million-dollar empire built on twisting Scripture to serve Zionist agendas. But Hagee isn't alone.

Meet Greg Locke, the leader of Global Vision Bible Churcha Tennessee-based megachurch operating more like a cult than a house of worship. Former church member Jen Rockwell sat down with Peters to expose Locke's questionable actions and behavior.

Financial fraud and hurricane relief scams

Locke allegedly raised $250,000 for hurricane victims but distributed only $2,400keeping the rest. Two pastors involved in fundraising confirmed the discrepancy, yet Locke dismissed accusations, claiming he had "video proof" that never materialized. When confronted, Locke's attorney threatened legal action against whistleblowers rather than providing transparency.

The Adoption Foundation scam

After Roe v. Wade was overturned, Locke launched an "Adoption Foundation," raising over $1 million under the promise of funding adoptions for Christian families. Instead, funds were funneled to Locke's stepdaughter, Chiara, and her husband, Chance, who used the money to buy and renovate a house on church property. Only two families outside Locke's inner circle received financial assistanceone was later ghosted mid-process, leaving them drowning in debt.

False flags and police manipulation

Locke filed a false police report accusing Rockwell and her husband of child sex traffickinga claim proven false by audio recordings obtained through a Freedom of Information Act request. Locke later lied, claiming his teenage son filed the reportanother provable fabrication.

Drugs, deliverance and demonic deception

Locke's son, Evan, struggled with fentanyl addiction, yet the church concealed it, refusing to seek prayer or accountability. Locke's "deliverance ministry" devolved into witchcraftclaiming to "pull jewels from bellies" and "cut tentacles off heads" while communicating with demons for "intel." Former members describe an oppressive, cult-like atmosphere where dissenters were excommunicated and surveilled.

The Zionist money trail

Locke's obsession with Israel isn't spiritualit's financial.

He made dozens of secret trips to Israel, instructing congregants to smuggle cash in suitcases under the declarable limit. He raised $96,000 for "red heifer ashes" (a Talmudic ritual with no biblical basis) before suddenly acquiring a Jerusalem condo. His endgame? "Building the Third Temple to usher in Christ's return."

But Scripture warns: "Many will say to Me on that day, 'Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name?' Then I will tell them plainly, 'I never knew you. Away from Me, you evildoers!'" (Matthew 7:22-23)

Federal investigations and the coming reckoning

Rockwell's testimony has drawn federal scrutiny:

Treasury Department agents interviewed her about Locke's finances.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has subpoenaed former staff regarding January 6 ties.

The Tennessee State Fire Marshal fined Locke for illegal construction on church property.

Yet Locke persistsmoving services to a Lebanon warehouse after his $750,000 tent structure was condemned.

The bigger picture: A war on true Christianity

Locke, Hagee and their ilk represent a broader infiltration of the church by Zionist grifters who:

Replace Christ with Israel in their theology.

Exploit congregants for political and financial gain.

Silence dissent through intimidation and lies.

As Peters warned, these people aren't pastors but enemies of the Cross. Until they are exposed, they will keep leading millions of people to hell.

Watch the video below where Locke says, "We have a God's house problem in this nation."

This video is from the Thrivetime Show channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Rumble.com

BrightU.ai

BibleGateway.com

Brighteon.com
Chinese Premier Li Qiang meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin in Moscow, Russia, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Rao Aimin)

MOSCOW, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang said on Tuesday that China's determination and position to develop mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia have always been consistent.

He made the remarks in talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin in the Kremlin.

Li first conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and best wishes to President Putin. He noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era has maintained operation at a high level.

Since the beginning of this year, President Xi and President Putin have met twice, pointing out the direction for the further development of China-Russia relations, Li said.

In the face of a volatile international situation, he added, China stands ready to work with Russia to uphold the original aspiration of eternal friendship, enhance alignment of development strategies, deepen cooperation in various fields, achieve more practical results, so as to better serve the development and rejuvenation of the two countries.

China is willing to further enhance the resilience of cooperation with Russia, consolidate and maintain the steady development momentum of bilateral cooperation, the premier said.

He urged both sides to jointly host new China-Russia national-level theme years well, leverage mutually beneficial policies, such as visa-free access, to serve the public interest, promote better mutual understanding and closer ties between the peoples of the two countries, and consolidate the foundation of people-to-people friendship in bilateral relations.

China is willing to continue to work closely with Russia to implement the outcomes of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Tianjin Summit, carry forward the Shanghai Spirit, deepen unity and cooperation to create a model for practicing the Global Governance Initiative, promote high-quality development of the SCO, and make greater contributions to peace and development in the region and the world at large, the premier said.

Putin asked Premier Li to convey his warm regards and best wishes to President Xi, congratulating the successful convening of the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China.

Putin expressed a confidence that under President Xi's strong leadership, China will successfully achieve the development goals set out in the 15th Five-Year Plan in the making and attain even greater economic and social progress.

The Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era is at an unprecedented high level, he said, noting that Russia stands ready to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, promote cooperation in economy and trade, energy, agriculture and infrastructure, and deepen people-to-people exchanges.

He added that Russia congratulates China on the successful convening of the SCO Tianjin Summit and expressed willingness to further strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral frameworks such as the SCO and BRICS, safeguard regional and global peace and stability, and promote common development.

Editor: Xiong Jian
A judicial gag order on faith: Maine case tests limits of parental rights

A Maine judge has barred a mother from taking her daughter to church or teaching her the Bible.

The order granted the child's atheist father exclusive control over all religious upbringing.

The mother is appealing, arguing the ruling violates her parental rights and religious freedom.

The case hinges on whether claims of psychological harm from religious teachings can justify such restrictions.

The Maine Supreme Court's decision could set a national precedent for parental and religious rights.

In a case that strikes at the heart of parental autonomy and religious liberty, the Maine Supreme Judicial Court is now deliberating a lower court's unprecedented decision to prohibit a mother from taking her 12-year-old daughter to church or instructing her in the Bible. The appeal in Bickford v. Bradeen centers on a December 2024 custody order that granted the childs father, Matthew Bradeen, exclusive authority over all religious matters, effectively silencing mother Emily Bickfords ability to share her Christian faith with her daughter. The outcome of this legal battle, argued before the states high court in November 2025, could redefine the boundaries between a parents constitutional rights and the states power to intervene in family decisions based on claims of psychological harm.

The foundation of a sweeping order

The contested order originated from the Portland District Court, which presided over the custody dispute between the unmarried parents. The courts decision was heavily influenced by testimony concerning the teachings and materials at Calvary Chapel, the church Bickford and her daughter attended. The judge found that imagery of fallen angels and concepts like eternal suffering presented in sermons and youth programs had induced anxiety and psychological distress in the child. Relying on this finding of potential harm, the court concluded that restricting the girls exposure to these religious teachings was in her best interest. The orders breadth extends beyond Sunday services, limiting the childs association with church friends and participation in any religious events.

Constitutional questions take center stage

During oral arguments, the justices rigorously questioned the limits of judicial authority. Mathew Staver, an attorney representing Bickford, argued the order was unconstitutional, imposing a total veto on religious expression without the requisite finding of abuse or neglect. He contended that evidence of a childs transient anxiety and finding a demonic image scary falls far short of the compelling state interest needed to justify such a drastic infringement on fundamental rights. In contrast, the fathers attorney, Michelle King, defended the ruling, asserting the court acted within its discretion to protect the child from documented emotional harm, a paramount concern that can, in her view, outweigh other considerations.

A historical precedent in the balance

The case echoes historical tensions between state power and religious exercise, recalling a time when dissenting religious views were suppressed. While modern courts have generally been hesitant to evaluate the content of religious doctrines, the Maine case tests that principle by weighing the specific teachings of a church against a psychological harm standard. This approach raises the specter of courts being empowered to deem one religion acceptable and another harmful based on subjective testimony. The legal standards under scrutiny include:

The First Amendments Free Exercise Clause.

The fundamental right of parents to direct the upbringing and education of their children.

The states parent patriae authority to protect children from harm.

A landmark decision on the horizon

As the Maine Supreme Judicial Court deliberates, its forthcoming ruling is anticipated to provide critical guidance for courts nationwide. A decision upholding the lower court could empower judges in other states to issue similar restrictions on religious practice in custody cases, potentially creating a hierarchy of state-approved beliefs. Conversely, a reversal would reinforce strong protections for parental rights, affirming that subjective claims of psychological distress are insufficient to nullify a fit parents constitutional liberties. The resolution of Bickford v. Bradeen will not only determine one girls spiritual upbringing but will also signal how the American legal system balances deeply held freedoms against the evolving interpretation of a childs best interest.

Sources for this article include:

TheNatioalPulse.com

Newsweek.com

CBN.com
Patrick Byrne on the Deep States deception: Inside the Russian collusion hoax

In "Danger Close," Byrne reveals he was manipulated by FBI/CIA operatives to fabricate a false narrative of Russian interference in the 2016 election. Agents directed him to facilitate meetings between Russian national Maria Butina and GOP figures, creating a "paper trail" later weaponized against Trump.

Federal agents tasked Byrne with setting up a secret $18 million bribery meeting between Hillary Clinton and an Azerbaijani operative  intended as blackmail leverage if she won the presidency. The operation exposed Clinton Foundation corruption but was ultimately buried to protect Obama-era allies.

Byrne's handlers ordered him to erase all traces of the operations and threatened his life when he questioned their motives. The Deep State actively destroyed exculpatory evidence, lied to Congress and manipulated intelligence to sustain the Russia hoax narrative.

Special Counsel John Durham ignored Byrne's testimony; avoided subpoenaing key figures like Comey and Brennan; and whitewashed the FBI/CIA's early involvement. The report's delays ensured statutes of limitations expired, shielding perpetrators from accountability.

Byrne ties the Russia hoax tactics to 2020 election fraud  ballot manipulation, media collusion and Big Tech censorship  arguing it was a coordinated coup. Institutions that lied about Russia later orchestrated Biden's victory through vote-counting shutdowns, forensic data destruction and DOJ inaction.

In "Danger Close: Domestic Extremist #1 Comes Clean," Patrick Byrne delivers a bombshell firsthand account of his entanglement with the Deep State and the fabrication of the Russian collusion hoax  a meticulously orchestrated plot to undermine democracy and manipulate the 2016 and 2020 U.S. elections.

Byrne, once celebrated as a Wall Street whistleblower and libertarian entrepreneur, reveals how he was unwittingly used as a pawn in a scheme that weaponized intelligence agencies, corrupted the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), and exploited political divisions to destabilize America. His involvement began in 2015 when Maria Butina, a Russian graduate student with ties to Moscow's political elite, approached him at a libertarian conference.

Sensing her connections could be leveraged for peace initiatives, Byrne reported her to U.S. authorities  only to discover the FBI had already been tracking her. Instead of treating her as a security concern, federal agents encouraged Byrne to maintain the relationship, using him to fabricate a "Can-O'-Russia-Scandal" designed to smear Republicans.

The plan was simple: Create the illusion of Russian interference in the 2016 election, then deploy it as a political weapon. Byrne's handlers  including high-ranking FBI and CIA officials  directed him to facilitate meetings between Butina and GOP figures, ensuring a paper trail that could later be spun as "collusion." Meanwhile, they suppressed exculpatory evidence, manipulated intelligence and lied to Congress.

Simultaneously, Byrne was tasked with setting up former First Lady Hillary Clinton in a bribery sting. Federal agents instructed him to arrange a secret meeting between Clinton and an Azerbaijani bagman, where $18 million would change hands. The sting aimed to generate blackmail material to control Clinton if she won the presidency.

BrightU.AI's Enoch engine recounts that Clinton, as secretary of state during the Obama administration, allegedly facilitated shady dealings with Azerbaijan  including accepting bribes through the Clinton Foundation while turning a blind eye to the country's human rights abuses and corrupt oil deals. Her actions furthered the globalist agenda of enriching elites at the expense of transparency and accountability.

The 2020 election was stolen through ballot fraud, media lies and censorship

Byrne delivered  only to later learn the operation wasn't about justice, but about ensuring former President Barack Obama's allies retained power. When Byrne confronted his handlers, they threatened his life, warning him to "scrub every trace" of the operation from his memory. The message was clear: The Deep State would stop at nothing to maintain control.

Despite Special Counsel John Durham's investigation into the Russia hoax, Byrne argues the final report was a whitewash, omitting the Deep State's early involvement. Durham ignored Byrne's testimony, avoided subpoenaing key players like former FBI Director James Comey and former CIA Director John Brennan, and downplayed the bureau's role in fabricating the scandal.

The truth is far darker. The Russian narrative was a premeditated coup attempt, designed to delegitimize President Donald Trump and justify unprecedented surveillance of political opponents. Byrne connects the Russia hoax to the 2020 election, where similar tactics  ballot fraud, media collusion and censorship  were deployed to ensure former President Joe Biden's victory.

He highlights the suspicious shutdowns of vote counting in key swing states, the erasure of forensic data in Maricopa County and the Department of Justice's refusal to investigate. The same institutions that lied about Russia now orchestrated an election heist, with Big Tech and intelligence agencies silencing dissent.

Byrne's account exposes a terrifying reality. The U.S. government has been hijacked by a cabal of unelected bureaucrats, intelligence operatives and corporate elites who manipulate elections, suppress opposition and punish truth-tellers. The Russia hoax was never about national security; it was about entrenching power.

The consequences are dire: Public trust in institutions has collapsed, and free speech is under assault. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, Byrne warns that the Deep State will stop at nothing to retain control  whether through lawfare, censorship, or another manufactured crisis. His story is ultimately a wake-up call: The Russian collusion hoax was a dry run for the systemic corruption now consuming America.

Buy a copy of "Danger Close: Domestic Extremist #1 Comes Clean" by Patrick Byrne at this link.

Watch Patrick Byrne disclosing Hillary Clinton's acceptance of an $18 million bribe from Azerbaijan in this clip.

This video is from the Ryo Era of Change channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
Russia expands Arctic dominance with new nuclear icebreaker fleet amid rising geopolitical tensions

Russia is the only nation capable of mass-producing nuclear-powered icebreakers, reinforcing its Arctic control. The Stalingrad, the sixth in the Project 22220series, joins a fleet of 42 icebreakers (8 nuclear-powered), with five more planned, including the Rossiya (71,380-ton "Leader Project" vessel).

The Arctic contributes 10 percent of Russia's GDP, supplying oil, gas, and rare-earth mineralsmany still untapped. The Northern Sea Route could cut Asia-Europe shipping times by 40 percent, but Russia's control risks tariffs and restrictions, threatening global trade autonomy.

Russia is militarizing the Arctic, upgrading Cold War bases, deploying radar-evading nuclear submarines, and conducting large-scale drills (100,000+ troops). NATO warns of Russia's growing Arctic threat but lacks comparable icebreaker capabilities.

Sovereignty and Technological Superiority: Putin emphasizes Russia's self-reliance in shipbuilding, calling icebreakers symbols of national resilience and innovation. The Stalingrad honors WWII history, carrying soil from Mamayev Kurgan as a patriotic gesture.

Experts suspect Russia's "equal cooperation" rhetoric hides dependence on foreign tech investments. Deployment of hypersonic missiles and Arctic drones raises conflict risks with NATO. As melting ice opens new opportunities, Russia's dual strategy (resource exploitation + military expansion) cements its polar dominance.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has reaffirmed Russia's commitment to expanding its nuclear-powered icebreaker fleet, declaring the nation as the sole global power capable of mass-producing such vessels.

The announcement came during the keel-laying ceremony of the Stalingrad, the sixth in a series of advanced nuclear icebreakers under Project 22220, held via video link at the Baltic Shipyard in St. Petersburg.

Russia currently operates 42 icebreakers, including eight nuclear-powered vessels, with plans to add five more nuclear-powered ships, including the Rossiya, a massive 71,380-ton vessel from the "Leader Project." The Stalingrad, along with its predecessorsArktika, Sibir, Ural and Yakutiawill bolster Russia's dominance in the Arctic, a region critical to its economy and military strategy.

Pavel Devyatkin of the Arctic Institute noted that the Arctic is not just a military concern but also an economic one with "a large share of Russia's oil, gas and natural resource exports originate from the Arctic," contributing to 10 percent of Russia's gross domestic product (GDP). The region holds vast untapped reserves of rare-earth elements, oil and gas, while melting ice opens lucrative shipping routes like the Northern Sea Route, which could slash transit times between Asia and Europe by 40 percent.

According to BrightU.AI's Enoch, the Arctic region is of critical importance to Russia for several strategic, economic and geopolitical reasons. Some key factors that underscore its significance are the natural resources, territorial claims, navigational routes, military and strategic importance, environmental monitoring and research, and cultural and historical significance. Understanding and asserting its interests in the Arctic is a key part of Russia's long-term economic, security and foreign policy strategies.

Speaking at the ceremony, Putin emphasized Russia's self-reliance in shipbuilding: "Today, Russia is actively and consistently developing its one-of-a-kind icebreaker fleet and equipping it with modern vessels Russia is currently the only country in the world capable of performing serial production and construction of high-power, reliable nuclear icebreakers. And what is fundamentalon the basis of internal domestic technologies."

The Stalingradnamed in honor of the pivotal World War II battlewill carry a capsule of soil from Mamayev Kurgan, symbolizing Russia's historical resilience. Putin framed the vessel as a testament to Russian ingenuity: "Working in the harsh Arctic conditions, blazing a path through the ice, it will become yet another symbol of the talent, strength and creative energy of our people."

Military and economic implications

Beyond commerce, Russia is militarizing the Arctic, upgrading Cold War-era bases and deploying nuclear submarines capable of evading radar beneath Arctic ice. Large-scale drills involving 100,000 troops underscore Moscow's readiness for potential conflict, raising concerns from the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Meanwhile, the Northern Sea Route presents a double-edged sword for global trade. While it promises shorter shipping times, Russia's control risks imposing tariffs and restrictions, threatening international autonomy.

Andrey Puchkov, CEO of the United Shipbuilding Corporation (USC), announced that Russia is constructing the largest icebreaker series in historyseven nuclear-powered vesselsthanks to streamlined production techniques cutting build times from seven to five years.

"The laying of this icebreaker, Stalingrad, leads to the fact that we are building the largest series of seven icebreakers in the history of our country and in the history of the world," Puchkov declared.

Global reactions and future prospects

NATO has warned of Russia's Arctic militarization but lacks comparable icebreaker capabilities. Experts suspect Moscow's rhetoric of "equal cooperation" masks reliance on foreign tech investments. Meanwhile, Russia's deployment of hypersonic missiles and Arctic drones heightens risks of confrontation.

As climate change transforms the Arctic into a geopolitical battleground, Russia's dual strategyresource exploitation and military expansionpositions it as a dominant force in the race for polar supremacy.

With Putin vowing that "all our plans will certainly be fulfilled," the Kremlin's Arctic ambitions show no signs of slowing down.

Watch the video below about the launch of Russia's Yakutia nuclear-powered Icebreaker.

This video is from the Cynthia's Pursuit of Truth channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

Sputnikglobe.com

Kremlin.ru

BrightU.ai

Iz.ru

TASS.com1

TASS.com2

Brighteon.com
Taiwan warns of security risks and political bias in Chinese AI models

Taiwan's NSB identified alarming cybersecurity vulnerabilities in five Chinese AI models (DeepSeek, Doubao, Wenxin Yiyan, Tongyi, Yuanbao), including unauthorized data harvesting, location tracking, and forced privacy policy acceptance. Alibaba's Tongyi failed 11/15 security checks.

These AI models can generate malicious scripts and exploit vulnerabilities, posing risks of remote cyberattacksraising concerns about espionage and data breaches under China's National Intelligence Law.

The models systematically push CCP narratives, falsely labeling Taiwan as "part of China," omitting Tiananmen Square references, and framing disputes like the South China Sea exclusively from Beijing's perspective.

User interactions with these AI tools expose sensitive data to CCP surveillance, prompting bans in Australia, Canada, and the U.S. Taiwan has prohibited DeepSeek on government devices since February.

Taiwan urges citizens and businesses to avoid Chinese AI apps, warning that adoption risks surrendering privacy and truth. The NSB pledges to collaborate with allies to counter digital threats from authoritarian tech.

Taiwan's National Security Bureau (NSB) has issued a stark warning against five Chinese-developed artificial intelligence (AI) models, citing severe cybersecurity vulnerabilities and politically manipulated outputs that align with Beijing's propaganda.

The NSB, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice Investigation Bureau and the National Police Agency's Criminal Investigation Bureau, conducted an extensive review of DeepSeek, Doubao, Wenxin Yiyan, Tongyi and Yuanbao, concluding that all exhibit alarming security flaws and censorship aligned with Chinese Communist Party (CCP) doctrine.

The assessment, based on 15 security indicators, found that these AI models aggressively collect user data, including:

Location tracking

Unauthorized screenshot capture

Forced acceptance of invasive privacy policies

Extraction of device parameters

Among the five, Tongyi (developed by Alibaba) had the worst violations, failing 11 out of 15 security checks, followed by Doubao (ByteDance) and Yuanbao (Tencent) with 10 failures each. DeepSeek, despite its growing global adoption, still logged eight security violations.

The NSB warned that these apps could be exploited for cyberattacks, as they are capable of generating "network attacking scripts and vulnerability-exploitation code"raising concerns about remote execution risks.

BrightU.AI's Enoch defines cyberattacks as malicious, deliberate and targeted actions carried out by individuals, groups or nation-states to exploit vulnerabilities in computer systems, networks or digital infrastructure. "These attacks aim to gain unauthorized access, steal or damage data, disrupt services, or control systems for criminal, political or competitive gain," Enoch adds.

Cyberattacks can be categorized into several types, each with its unique characteristics and objectives. To protect against cyberattacks, individuals and organizations should implement robust cybersecurity measures, including regular software updates, strong passwords, multi-factor authentication, employee training, firewalls, intrusion detection systems and regular data backups. Additionally, staying informed about emerging threats and trends is crucial for maintaining a strong defense against cyberattacks.

Political censorship: Pro-China bias and disinformation

Beyond cybersecurity, the NSB tested the AI models' outputs using 10 content indicators, revealing systematic censorship and misinformation:

Taiwan is falsely described as "an inalienable part of China" and "a province of China."

Historical narratives omit references to democracy, freedom and human rights.

Tiananmen Square Massacre (1989) is conspicuously absent from generated content.

South China Sea disputes are framed exclusively from Beijing's perspective.

"The results indicate that the training data and model outputs are subject to political censorship and control by the Chinese government," the NSB stated.

China's National Intelligence Law and Cybersecurity Law mandate that companies hand over user data to authorities, meaning any interaction with these AI models could expose sensitive information to CCP surveillance.

This aligns with previous warnings from Australia, Canada and the U.S., where DeepSeek has faced bans on government devices due to security concerns.

Taiwan's response: Public warning and continued vigilance

Taiwan has already banned DeepSeek from government devices since February, though private use remains unrestricted. The NSB urged citizens and businesses to avoid Chinese AI apps to protect personal and corporate data.

The NSB affirmed it will continue improving information sharing with international allies to counter transnational cybersecurity risks.

The findings underscore a broader geopolitical struggleChina's AI tools are not just technological competitors but instruments of political control. As Beijing tightens its grip on digital narratives, democracies worldwide must decide whether to engage with AI models that come with built-in censorship and surveillance risks.

For now, Taiwan's warning serves as a critical alert: trusting Chinese AI could mean surrendering both privacy and truth.

Stay informed. Stay vigilant.

Watch the video below about the Indian government issuing orders to ban 54 Chinese apps, citing privacy and national security concerns.

This video is from the Chinese taking down EVIL CCP channel on Brighteon.com.

Sources include:

TheEpochTimes.com

TaipeiTimes.com

DigiTimes.com

TechInAsia.com

BrightU.ai

Brighteon.com
In 2025, there were TWICE as many ARSON attacks on Christian churches in Europe

A 2025 report titled "Intolerance and Discrimination Against Christians in Europe" documents a rise in attacks on Christian churches.

The report found that arson attacks against churches have doubled compared to the previous year.

The report documents 2,211 anti-Christian hate crimes in Europe in 2024, with arson attacks on churches doubling to 94 incidents.

The violence includes the murder of a 76-year-old Spanish monk and an ISIS-related shooting during Sunday mass in Istanbul.

Legal persecution is also rising, with Christians facing prosecution for silent prayer and for publicly expressing traditional beliefs.

The muted response from officials and media contrasts sharply with reactions to other forms of hate, revealing a troubling double standard.

This conflict represents a deeper spiritual war, demanding recognition and a courageous response from people of faith.

A rising tide of fire and violence

The data from the Observatory on Intolerance and Discrimination against Christians in Europe (OIDAC Europe) paints a stark picture of escalating hostility. Germany, a nation at the heart of the European project, experienced 33 arson attacks on Christian buildings alone. France recorded a staggering 770 anti-Christian crimes, with a historic church in Saint-Omer nearly erased by flames. Behind these cold statistics are acts of profound sacrilege: sanctuaries defaced with graffiti, windows shattered, and altars blackened by fire. The violence is not confined to property. The report documents 274 attacks on individuals, a number that represents a real and growing physical threat to ordinary believers. From the murder of a monk in Spain to a deadly shooting in a Turkish church, the message is clear: to be a public Christian in modern Europe is to become a potential target.

Where is the universal condemnation? Imagine for a moment if these attacks were directed at any other religious community or political group. The outcry would be instantaneous and overwhelming, dominating headlines and prompting emergency summits. Yet, for Christians, there is mostly silence. This institutional indifference perpetuates a dangerous false narrative that Christian persecution is insignificant or, worse, deserved. This double standard is a form of institutionalized bias, a silent endorsement of the violence that allows it to continue and escalate. While governments move to appoint special enforcers for other forms of hate, Christians are left to plead for a mere coordinator at the EU level, a request that highlights their second-class status in the eyes of the political establishment.

The legalistic noose tightens

Beyond the overt violence, a more insidious form of persecution is unfolding in courtrooms and legislative chambers. The report criticizes the United Kingdom's "buffer zone laws," which have criminalized silent, internal prayer near abortion facilities. Consider the case of Adam Smith-Connor, a British army veteran convicted in a court of law for the "crime" of standing with his head bowed in quiet prayer. His conviction proves that the new intolerance is not concerned with actions, but with thoughts and beliefs themselves.

This legal assault mirrors a broader global trend where the digital public square is being systematically sanitized. For instance, New Yorks proposed laws would empower activists to suppress protected speech, while the U.K.'s Online Safety Bill criminalizes "false communications" with prison terms, all while failing to clearly define what those terms mean. In Finland, MP Paivi Rasanen was dragged through the courts for years for quoting the Bible. These are not isolated incidents. They are coordinated fronts in the same war, where expressing traditional Christian views on marriage and gender is increasingly labeled as "hate speech" or "discrimination," resulting in interrogations, suspensions, and dismissals. The goal is to force a state-approved orthodoxy upon the populace, silencing any dissent from the secular worldview.

The unseen battle and the call to stand firm

To view this conflict as merely political or social is to misunderstand its fundamental nature. The apostle Paul wrote in Ephesians 6:12, "For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places." The physical fires consuming churches are a manifestation of a spiritual fire aimed at the soul of the West. The legalistic persecution is a weapon in a war against divine truth. The silence of the institutions is a testament to the success of a deceptive narrative that has captivated the minds of those in power.

The same globalist entities pushing for centralized control over online informationfrom the World Economic Forum to the architects of the EU's Digital Services Actare the same forces that remain conspicuously silent as the physical pillars of a Christian heritage are challenged by hatred and violence. These global bodies speak of "safety" and "misinformation" while ignoring the very real, tangible hatred directed at one of the world's oldest and most hopeful faith communities. These global bodies fund massive "fact-checking" networks to control public thought, yet cannot muster the moral clarity to condemn the burning of a house of worship where people's lives are changed for the better.

The war is not against a people, but against the Spirit of Truth. The call for believers and all people of goodwill is to put on the full armor of God, to stand firm in faith, and to lift their voices up for justice. We must break down the barriers of this false narrative, fight for universal human dignity, and shine a light into this deepening darkness. The time for silent acceptance is over.

Sources include:

Lifesitenews.com

IntoleranceAgainstChristians.eu

BibleGateway.com
UK government ALLOWED to bury the data linking COVID SHOTS to soaring DEATH TOLL

What happens when the very institutions tasked with protecting public health become the greatest obstacle to the truth, conspiring in a coverup of mass death? For two long years, the British people have waited for answers as their nation was gripped by a silent crisis of excess deaths. Now, in a stunning act of bureaucratic cowardice, the UK Health Security Agency has been granted permission from UK's Information Commissioner's Office to permanently conceal data that exposes the devastating link between COVID-19 vaccines and the thousands of extra lives lost. This is a deliberate cover-up, a betrayal of public trust that leaves grieving families in the dark and shields powerful interests from accountability.

Key points:

The UK Information Commissioners Office ruled that the UKHSA does not have to release data requested by the nonprofit UsForThem, ending a two-year legal battle.

The UKHSA argued that releasing the data could cause "distress" to the vaccine-injured and fuel "misinformation," a justification critics call patronizing and absurd.

Excess deaths in the UK increased sharply in 2022 and early 2023, with a parliamentary group and multiple international studies pointing to growing concerns about vaccine safety.

Prominent physicians and activists accuse the government of a "ridiculous cover-up," suggesting the withheld data would likely confirm a direct link between the vaccines and mortality.

A patronizing shield for institutional failure

The UKHSAs defense for burying this critical information is as flimsy as it is insulting. The agency claims that releasing anonymized data on deaths following vaccination could cause "distress or anger" to relatives and might be misused to spread "misinformation." This logic is a perversion of public health. It suggests that the British public is too fragile to handle the facts and that government agencies are the sole arbiters of what they can and cannot know.

Ben Kingsley, legal director for UsForThem, cut to the heart of the matter, stating, "You have to ask yourself why it is that the public are considered incapable of handling this data. It reveals a patronising mindset, which also characterised the pandemic response  do what we say, dont ask any questions, we know what is best for you." This is the language of an authoritarian nanny state, not a democratic society built on informed consent. How can there be trust when the government fights in court to hide the very numbers that could explain why so many people are dying unexpectedly?

The hypocrisy is staggering. While the public is deemed unworthy of this data, pharmaceutical companies were reportedly given access. A cross-party parliamentary group last year demanded the data be released "on the same anonymised basis that it was shared with the pharmaceutical groups." Why is corporate access to this information a priority, while public access is a danger? This double standard reveals where the government's true loyalties lie. It is not with the people it serves, but with the powerful industries it regulates. The decision to conceal this data is a political calculation, not a scientific one, designed to protect a failing vaccine program from legitimate scrutiny.

The global context of a concealed crisis

To understand the gravity of this cover-up, one must look at the alarming global pattern of excess deaths that governments are struggling to explain. According to Our World in Data, the UK saw an 8% increase in excess deaths from 2020-2024 compared to the pre-pandemic years. But this is not an isolated British problem. A study published in BMJ Public Health this year found the period of the pandemic brought "unprecedented" excess mortality, totaling millions of lives across the sampled nations. The official narrative blames COVID-19, but the deaths did not stop when failed hospital protocols gave way to the vaccine rollout.

A growing body of international research is connecting the dots that health agencies like the UKHSA refuse to. A study in Discover Medicine documented an abnormal rise in excess deaths in Japan following the vaccine rollout. Research in Microorganisms showed a link between COVID-19 vaccines and increased all-cause mortality in Italy. Analyses from Australia and Cyprus have found positive correlations between booster doses and rising death rates.

Dr. Aseem Malhotra, a prominent British cardiologist, has been unequivocal, stating the COVID-19 shots are "most likely the no. 1 driving factor behind the increase in excess deaths." He calls the UKHSA's decision "appalling," noting this is "not the first time" UK health agencies have been involved in a cover-up. When the evidence from around the world points in one direction, and a government agency actively works to hide its own data, what conclusion are people supposed to draw?

Voices of the injured demand transparency

The most cruel irony in the UKHSAs position is its claim to be protecting the vaccine-injured from distress. Those who have been harmed by these policies see this secrecy for what it is: a tactic to silence and marginalize them. Danielle Baker, a former hospice nurse who was permanently disabled by a COVID-19 shot she felt coerced into taking, spoke for many when she said, "Not having access to clear and concise data is what fuels misinformation." She continued, "The lack of transparency leaves all to question and speculate on what the real numbers may be, impacting our ability to be heard. Our voices are lost among the many because of this, leaving us to wonder if this is by design." The true distress is not in knowing the truth, but in being gaslit by a system that promised safety and now refuses to account for the consequences.

This institutional betrayal is fueling a political firestorm. Reform UK, a growing political force, has committed to a public inquiry into excess deaths and vaccine harms if it gains power. The publics trust is eroding by the day, sacrificed on the altar of bureaucratic self-preservation. As podcaster and health freedom activist Dan Astin-Gregory noted, if "the data exonerated the program, it would be published immediately. The refusal alone shows that transparency has been traded for institutional self-preservation. Families who have lost loved ones deserve honesty, not secrecy." The UK government has chosen to fight its citizens instead of fighting for the truth. In doing so, it has proven that the greatest threat to public health may not be a virus, but the very authorities who have forgotten they are servants of the people.

Sources include:

ChildrensHealthDefense.org

Telegraph.co.uk

Enoch, Brighteon.ai
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At the recently concluded 21st Chinese American TV Festival, an 18-year-old Chinese teenage director captured the spotlight. Chen Yinuo (Emily Chen), a student from Branksome Hall in Canada won the Best Web Documentary Award for her film TEN YEARS BETWEEN US making her the youngest winner in this years festival.

A Ten-Year Promise Fulfilled Through the Lens

TEN YEARS BETWEEN US documents Chens heartwarming journey to reconnect with more than 20 au pair sisters who lived with her family during her childhood. From Colombia, Germany, South Africa to the United States, these sisters from over ten countries turned names on a map into genuine friendships. Through carefully woven archival footage spanning more than a decade, the film beautifully intertwines past and present, portraying an emotional reunion that transcends culture and time.

She shared in an interview, My name Yinuo means a promise as valuable as gold. This film is how Ive fulfilled my childhood promise. I told my sisters that once I grew up, I would find them. Now, that promise has finally been realized through the lens of my camera.

Unique Upbringing Shapes Multicultural Perspective

Chens personal growth story is remarkable in itself. From the age of five, her family openly hosted over 20 au pairs from around the world. They didnt just teach me languages; they taught me how to see the world from different perspectives. This unique upbringing not only allowed her to master both Chinese and English but also enabled her to communicate in French and Latin, cultivating a distinctive capacity for cross-cultural understanding.

At just five years old, she starred in When a Peking Family Meets an Au Pair, a film based on her life, winning acting awards at international film festivals in Canada, France, and the UK. Now, at 18, she has become the youngest member of the China Film Critics Association, a bilingual writer published in multiple authoritative media outlets, and a rising director attracting widespread attention.

Multiple Talents Demonstrating Exceptional Ability

Beyond directing, Chen has demonstrated remarkable talent across multiple artistic domains. She has performed at Carnegie Hall in New York, participated in therapeutic clowning programs to help special needs groups, and co-translated the work of a renowned American dramatist, Discovering the Clown. Her personal art designs not only hold intellectual property rights but have also gained market recognition. These diverse experiences have provided unique nourishment for her creative work.

Connecting World Through Personal Stories

TEN YEARS BETWEEN US has been selected as a Beijing Excellence Project. It will premiere simultaneously on iQIYI and Tencent Video at 6:00 PM Beijing Time on November 20, with new episodes released every Thursday at 6:00 PM. She plans to sustain this grassroots exchange initiative and develop it into a high-quality IP. From child star to director, from actress to writer, Chen Yinuo  through her multiple identities and cross-cultural background  offers a vivid example of global cultural exchange. This young director is using her unique approach to make the world more closely connected.

Chen is an exceptional cross-cultural ambassador who aims to share more remarkable works that connect the world through her unique perspective and heartfelt storytelling.

Editor: ZZ
A lot of CIOs are starting to question whether their current AI infrastructure choices will hold up in the long run. Its not just about picking a cloud provider anymore. The lines between cloud, models, and hardware are blurring fast, said Sanchit Vir Gogia, the chief analyst at Greyhound Research. This deal also reveals how tightly linked the AI supply chain has become, with cloud capacity, model availability, and silicon strategy now moving in lockstep rather than as separate decisions.

Gogia stressed that the potential purchase decision strategy changes could be much more significant.

Heres the part that matters to CIOs: when you pick a model now, youre not just picking a model. Youre picking a hardware path, a cloud footprint, and a cost profile that will shape how your AI projects scale or dont. Microsofts move to integrate Claude into Foundry and Copilot isnt just about more choice. It signals a shift in posture. What used to be a one-model strategy is now moving toward a portfolio play. That gives buyers more options, but it also introduces more complexity, Gogia said.

He added, there is also a deeper pattern emerging. The flow of capital, compute and model access between these companies is becoming circular in nature. Infrastructure vendors are funding the very AI labs that become their largest customers, which can blur the real economics for enterprises planning long-term budgets. Youll need stronger governance to keep those options manageable.

But another analyst said the new partnership highlights Anthropics growing needs.

Anthropic, like OpenAI, needs to hedge its bets across multiple XPU and GPU vendors, said Patrick Moorhead, CEO of Moor Insights & Strategy. This is smart, as they can compare TCO across all the vendors over time and keep vendors hungry.
Emergency power outages have been introduced in a number of regions of Ukraine due to a hostile attack on energy infrastructure, the press service of the Ministry of Energy has said.

"Russia is again attacking our energy infrastructure. Because of this, emergency power outages have been introduced in a number of regions of Ukraine," the message reads.
Champaign, IL (61820)

Today

Cloudy with snow showers developing for the afternoon. High 29F. Winds SW at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulations less than one inch..

Tonight

Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 24F. Winds E at 5 to 10 mph. Chance of snow 100%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
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After returning from what felt like the best internship of her life, Danae Daniels was excited to unwind and settle into a new semester at Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University. But when she opened the door to her off-campus apartment, she was met with an overwhelming smell  and a devastating reality.

"There was mold in my bedroom, on my bed, mold in my expensive purse," Daniels said. "Mold in my closet, my bathroom  literally everywhere."

During her absence, a series of severe natural disasters had swept through the Tallahassee area, leaving widespread damage. According to the National Centers for Environmental Information, those storms in summer 2024 caused billions of dollars in destruction, displacing families and leaving businesses in ruin.

It caused more than just property damage. While the community worked to recover, mold took hold in homes and other buildings across the city, turning the natural disaster into a prolonged crisis with public health implications.

If any part of a home is exposed to flooding or leaks and is not fully dried within 24 to 48 hours, mold growth is almost certain, said Parham Azimi, a research associate at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, who studies the link between mold exposure and respiratory health, particularly in the wake of natural disasters. After major storms, we often see spikes in respiratory illnesses, particularly in homes that were affected by flooding.

A foundation for trouble

An estimated 47% of residential buildings in the United States contain mold or dampness. So even as the latest hurricane season winds down, the threat of mold-related health risks lingers.

And with 29% of the nations population living in flood-prone coastal counties, the risk of exposure to mold spores and allergens that can trigger respiratory illnesses is immense, leaving some 95 million people vulnerable when extreme weather strikes. That doesn't count people in inland areas that flood, like in the North Carolina and Tennessee mountains that experienced massive flooding from Hurricane Helene last year  or those whose homes were drenched from the Hill Country flooding in Texas this summer.

The health consequences of mold exposure range from mild allergic reactions to severe respiratory conditions. Common symptoms include congestion, asthma flare-ups, and skin irritation, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Prolonged exposure can lead to more serious complications, such as hypersensitivity pneumonitis  a rare lung inflammation  and mycotoxin-related illnesses, which can cause neurological damage, liver disease, and kidney dysfunction.

Now, a key federal program that helps repair housing after disasters and aid from the Federal Emergency Management Agency are in question amid President Donald Trump's cutbacks and policy changes.

One of the greatest dangers of mold is that it often goes undetected for months or years, leaving people unknowingly exposed.

Lauren Lowenstein in Houston knows that all too well. For five years, my family's health kept declining, and we had no idea why," she said.

After conducting an Environmental Relative Moldiness Index test, Lowenstein said, she discovered that toxic mold spores had been growing inside the walls of her home due to excessive condensation in the HVAC system. She, her husband, and their two children vacated immediately and had to start over again.

The mold wasnt visible, and we had no indication that it was growing, Lowenstein said.

Even when mold is detected, removing it is an expensive challenge. On average, mold remediation costs between $1,223 and $3,751, according to the home service clearinghouse Angi, but in severe cases, the price can reach $30,000 or more. Even with home insurance coverage for mold, people may bear some cost.

Daniels, for example, was forced to leave her Tallahassee apartment and get a hotel for a month while waiting to be moved into a newly renovated unit. She had to replace all her belongings.

The cost of remediation remains out of reach for many households, Azimi said, and alternative yet affordable housing can be hard to find, which means continued mold exposure.

"For low-income and marginalized communities, the risks are even greater," Azimi said.

For those seeking government assistance, the wait times can be extensive, according to the Rev. Mac Legerton, founder of the Robeson County Disaster Survival and Resiliency School in North Carolina. "In many cases, families are left to choose between living in unsafe conditions or homelessness."

A 2019 review funded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development of 88 disaster grants found that its Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery program began distributing funds to applicants on average 20 months after the initial disaster, with disbursements taking two years or longer.

When it comes to our disaster response system, mold remediation is one of the most neglected areas at the local, state, and national levels, Legerton said.

Legerton's organization runs a "mold busters" program, a hands-on training and education initiative that helps give people in Robeson County the tools and knowledge they need to safely remove mold from homes, churches, and businesses following natural disasters. The program also provides free mold remediation services to vulnerable communities. He said it was created in response to the lack of timely aid in the central North Carolina community.

Waiting takes its toll

Tanya Locklear faced this reality after Hurricanes Matthew and Florence severely damaged her home in Pembroke, North Carolina, in 2016 and 2018, respectively, ultimately leaving it contaminated with mold.

She applied for assistance through North Carolina's ReBuild NC governmental program in August 2021 but said she did not receive approval until November 2023. She said repairs finally began in February 2024  more than two years after her application.

It was only after local advocacy efforts  including pressure from community leaders and Legerton's organization  that her case moved forward, Locklear said.

However, she said, the initial delays had already taken a toll on her family's health and well-being. While waiting for aid, Locklear and her children remained in the hazardous conditions of the moldy home. She said she and her family suffered health complications such as headaches, nose bleeds, and difficulty breathing.

Even today, Locklear said, she has various respiratory issues, showing the long-term risks of remaining in mold-infested homes.

Legerton, working with his group on the ground in North Carolina, believes that lawmakers and policymakers must focus on streamlining disaster relief programs to ensure effective and timely aid distribution for affected families and communities nationwide.

Government officials should also increase funding for mold remediation to help prevent displacement and long-term health consequences, and implement stronger building codes and flood-resistant housing designs to mitigate mold risk in disaster-prone areas, according to Legerton and public health experts. Without proactive policies, Azimi said, millions more will face prolonged exposure to unhealthy living conditions.

"As climate change intensifies, hurricanes and severe storms will become more frequent and destructive, increasing the risk of mold-related illnesses," Azimi said.
"Drains" in the brain, responsible for clearing toxic waste in the organ, tend to get clogged up in people who show signs of developing Alzheimer's disease, a study by researchers from Nanyang Technological University, Singapore (NTU Singapore) has discovered.

This suggests that such clogged drains, a condition known as "enlarged perivascular spaces", are a likely early-warning sign for Alzheimer's, a common form of dementia.



"Since these brain anomalies can be visually identified on routine magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans performed to evaluate cognitive decline, identifying them could complement existing methods to detect Alzheimer's earlier, without having to do and pay for additional tests," said Associate Professor Nagaendran Kandiah from NTU's Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine (LKCMedicine) who led the study.



Justin Ong, a fifth-year LKCMedicine student and first author of the study, added that detecting Alzheimer's early is important because it allows clinicians to step in sooner to try and slow down the worsening of a patient's cognitive issues like memory loss, slower thinking abilities and mood changes. The study was conducted as part of LKCMedicine's Scholarly Project module in the School's Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery programme.



The research is also significant as it is one of the few globally to look at Asians, because most studies tend to focus on Caucasian participants. Nearly 1,000 people in Singapore from different ethnicities representative of the country's population were studied by the team. The study compared people who had no cognitive issues and those with mild thinking problems.



Asian studies are crucial as past research suggests that there are differences in dementia-related conditions between people from different ethnic groups.



"For example, among Caucasians with dementia, past studies show that the prevalence of a major risk gene, apolipoprotein E4, linked to Alzheimer's is around 50 to 60 per cent. But among Singapore dementia patients, it is less than 20 per cent," said Assoc Prof Kandiah, who is also Director of the Dementia Research Centre (Singapore) in LKCMedicine. So, findings in studies on Caucasian patients might not be observed in Asians and vice versa.

Predicting Alzheimer's before it happens

Blood vessels in the brain are surrounded by spaces, called perivascular spaces, where toxic waste in the brain, such as beta amyloid and tau proteins found in large amounts for Alzheimer's patients, drain into and are cleared.



If these drains get clogged because the brain's system of clearing toxic waste is not working efficiently, they form enlarged perivascular spaces, which can be seen on MRI scans. But it was not previously clear if this condition was also linked to dementia, specifically Alzheimer's disease.



The NTU researchers sought to address issues with earlier studies by comparing the clogged brain drains against more Alzheimer's disease indicators than previously tested. They also compared the jammed drains against hallmark indicators of Alzheimer's - beta amyloid proteins and damage to the brain's white matter, which is a nerve fibre network connecting various parts of the brain.



The researchers studied close to 1,000 participants in Singapore, including nearly 350 who do not have any cognitive problems, meaning their mental abilities, such as their ability to think, remember, reason, make decisions and focus, are normal.



The rest of the participants had features suggesting early stages of cognitive disease, including mild cognitive impairment which is a stage that precedes overt dementia. According to past research, those with mild cognitive impairment have a higher risk of developing dementia like Alzheimer's disease and vascular dementia, which is a type of dementia caused by reduced blood flow to the brain.



For the latest study, the researchers analysed the MRI scans of the participants and found that those with mild cognitive impairment tend to have clogged drains in their brains, or enlarged perivascular spaces, compared to the other participants.



The scientists also took seven measurements based on specific biochemicals in the participants' blood, including beta amyloid and tau proteins. Their presence is a warning sign that a person has Alzheimer's.



The presence of clogged drains in the brain was linked to four of the seven measurements. So, people with enlarged perivascular spaces are likely to have more amyloid plaques, tau tangles and brain cell damage in their brains than normal, and are thus at higher risk of developing Alzheimer's.



The researchers also studied if damage to the brain's white matter, a well-known indicator of Alzheimer's, was linked to the biochemicals tied to the disease, and they did find such links with six of the seven biochemical measurements, but with a twist.



They further compared the white matter damage against enlarged perivascular spaces, and discovered that in participants with mild cognitive impairment, the link with biochemicals tied to Alzheimer's was stronger for enlarged perivascular spaces than for white matter damage. This suggests that choked brain drains are early indicators of Alzheimer's disease.



Knowing all this allows clinicians to better figure out what kind of treatment they should use to slow and prevent Alzheimer's early, possibly before permanent brain damage has happened.

The findings carry substantial clinical implications. Although white matter damage is more widely used in clinical practice to evaluate for dementia, as it is easily recognized on MRI scans, our results suggest that enlarged perivascular spaces may hold unique value in detecting early signs of Alzheimer's disease." Nagaendran Kandiah, Associate Professor, NTU's Lee Kong Chian School of Medicine

Dr Rachel Cheong Chin Yee, a Senior Consultant and Deputy Head at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital's Department of Geriatric Medicine, said that the study highlights how changes in the brain's small blood vessels - in this case enlarged perivascular spaces that surround the blood vessels and help clear waste from the brain - may contribute to Alzheimer's disease.



"These findings are significant because they suggest that brain scans showing enlarged perivascular spaces could potentially help identify people at higher risk of Alzheimer's disease, even before symptoms appear," said Dr Cheong, who was not involved in the study.



Dr Chong Yao Feng, a Consultant at the National University Hospital's Division of Neurology and who was also not involved in the NTU study, said that cerebrovascular diseases - conditions that cause problems in the blood vessels of the brain - and Alzheimer's disease are traditionally believed to be caused by different processes.



"The study's findings are intriguing as they demonstrate that both diseases do interact in a synergistic manner," said Dr Chong, who is also a Clinical Assistant Professor at the National University of Singapore's Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine.



So, if a doctor orders an MRI brain scan to evaluate a patient's cognitive symptoms and notices that the scan shows markers of cerebrovascular diseases, such as the enlarged perivascular spaces investigated in the NTU study, the clinician should not assume the patient's cognitive impairment is due only to blood vessel problems. This is because the markers' presence might increase the risk of the patient also having Alzheimer's disease.



"Doctors will then have to use their clinical judgement of the patient's scan and symptoms, as well as discuss with the patient, to determine if more checks are needed to confirm whether a patient has Alzheimer's disease or not," said Dr Chong.



The NTU research team plans to follow-up on the study participants to check how many go on to develop Alzheimer's dementia and to confirm that enlarged perivascular spaces can predict that people with these choked drains are more likely to progress to dementia.



Also, with more studies establishing the link between the clogged drains and Alzheimer's in other populations, detecting enlarged perivascular spaces in MRI scans could one day be added to the existing tools available to clinicians to determine much earlier whether a patient will develop Alzheimer's.
An AI tool that can analyze abnormalities in the shape and form of blood cells, and with greater accuracy and reliability than human experts, could change the way conditions such as leukemia are diagnosed.

Researchers have created a system called CytoDiffusion that uses generative AI  the same type of technology behind image generators such as DALL-E  to study the shape and structure of blood cells.

Unlike many AI models, which are trained to simply recognize patterns, the researchers  led by the University of Cambridge, University College London and Queen Mary University of London  showed that CytoDiffusion could accurately identify a wide range of normal blood cell appearances and spot unusual or rare cells that may indicate disease. Their results are reported in the journal Nature Machine Intelligence.

Spotting subtle differences in blood cell size, shape and appearance is a cornerstone of diagnosing many blood disorders. But the task requires years of training, and even then, different doctors can disagree on difficult cases.

We've all got many different types of blood cells that have different properties and different roles within our body. White blood cells specialise in fighting infection, for example. But knowing what an unusual or diseased blood cell looks like under a microscope is an important part of diagnosing many diseases." Simon Deltadahl from Cambridge's Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics, study's first author

However, a typical blood 'smear' contains thousands of cells  far more than any human could analyse. "Humans can't look at all the cells in a smear  it's just not possible," said Deltadahl. "Our model can automate that process, triage the routine cases, and highlight anything unusual for human review."

"The clinical challenge I faced as a junior haematology doctor was that after a day of work, I would face a lot of blood films to analyse," said co-senior author Dr Suthesh Sivapalaratnam from Queen Mary University of London. "As I was analysing them in the late hours, I became convinced AI would do a better job than me."

To develop CytoDiffusion, the researchers trained the system on over half a million images of blood smears collected at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge. The dataset  the largest of its kind  included both common blood cell types and rarer examples, as well as elements that can confuse automated systems.

By modelling the full distribution of cell appearances rather than just learning to separate categories, the AI became more robust to differences between hospitals, microscopes and staining methods, and better able to recognise rare or abnormal cells.

In tests, CytoDiffusion could detect abnormal cells linked to leukemia with far greater sensitivity than existing systems. It also matched or surpassed current state-of-the-art models, even when given far few training examples; and quantify its own uncertainty.

"When we tested its accuracy, the system was slightly better than humans," said Deltadahl. "But where it really stood out was in knowing when it was uncertain. Our model would never say it was certain and then be wrong, but that is something that humans sometimes do."

"We evaluated our method against many of the challenges seen in real-world AI, such as never-before-seen images, images captured by different machines and the degree of uncertainty in the labels," said co-senior author Professor Michael Roberts, also from Cambridge's Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. "This framework gives a multi-faceted view of model performance which we believe will be beneficial to researchers."

The team also showed that CytoDiffusion could generate synthetic blood cell images indistinguishable from real ones. In a 'Turing test' with ten experienced hematologists, the human experts were no better than chance at telling real from AI-generated images.

"That really surprised me," said Deltadahl. "These are people who stare at blood cells all day, and even they couldn't tell."

As part of the project, the researchers are releasing what they say is the world's largest publicly available dataset of peripheral blood smear images: more than half a million in total.

"By making this resource open, we hope to empower researchers worldwide to build and test new AI models, democratise access to high-quality medical data, and ultimately contribute to better patient care," said Deltadahl.

While the results are promising, the researchers say that CytoDiffusion is not a replacement for trained clinicians. Instead, it is designed to support them by rapidly flagging abnormal cases for review and handling more routine ones automatically.

"The true value of healthcare AI lies not in approximating human expertise at lower cost, but in enabling greater diagnostic, prognostic, and prescriptive power than either experts or simple statistical models can achieve," said co-senior author Professor Parashkev Nachev from UCL. "Our work suggests that generative AI will be central to this mission, transforming not only the fidelity of clinical support systems but their insight into the limits of their own knowledge. This 'metacognitive' awareness  knowing what one does not know  is critical to clinical decision-making, and here we show machines may be better at it than we are."

The researchers say further work is needed to make the system faster and to test it across diverse patient populations to ensure fairness and accuracy.

The research was supported in part by the Trinity Challenge, Wellcome, the British Heart Foundation, Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Trust, Barts Health NHS Trust, the NIHR Cambridge Biomedical Research Centre, NIHR UCLH Biomedical Research Centre, and NHS Blood and Transplant. The research was conducted by the Imaging working group within the BloodCounts! consortium, which aims to use AI to improve blood diagnostics globally. Simon Deltadahl is a Member of Lucy Cavendish College, Cambridge.
Antibiotic resistance is one of the most pressing challenges to global public health as harmful microbes evolve to evade these medications. Now, researchers at University of California San Diego and their colleagues have developed a new method to combat antibiotic-resistant bacteria using bacteriophages, or phages, for short - viruses that infect and kill bacteria - as an alternative to traditional antibiotics.

The researchers targeted Klebsiella pneumoniae, a species of bacteria notorious for its ability to resist multiple antibiotics. The dangerous pathogen can cause severe infections in hospital settings, including pneumonia and sepsis. While phages have been used as a treatment for bacterial infections for over a century, they are extremely specific about which strains of a bacterial species they will attack. This has limited their effectiveness against the most antibiotic-resistant strains.

To overcome this problem, the research team "trained" the phages by allowing them to evolve together with the bacteria in a controlled laboratory setting for 30 days.

This technique, called "experimental evolution", permitted the phages to adapt to bacterial defenses. This resulted in significant improvements to their ability to kill a wide variety of bacterial strains, including multidrug-resistant and extensively drug-resistant K. pneumoniae - strains that pose a significant challenge to modern medicine.

What's more, the evolved phages also demonstrated an enhanced ability to suppress bacterial growth over extended periods of time.

Genetic analysis revealed that the evolved phages acquired mutations to specific genes responsible for recognizing and binding to bacterial cells to initiate the infection process. These changes likely contributed to their improved effectiveness.

The research, led by senior author David T. Pride, M.D., Ph.D., professor of pathology at UC San Diego School of Medicine, highlights the potential of phage therapy as a powerful tool to address the global antibiotic resistance crisis. The team believes their method could be adapted to target other resistant pathogens, offering an avenue for developing treatments against a wide range of life-threatening infections.

The study was published in Nature Communications on November 19, 2025.
Mental health problems are keeping an increasing number of Norwegians out of the employment market. Treatment alone is often not enough to get people back to work. Some groups are at greater risk of being away from work for a long time  or even permanently.

Norway ranks at the very top among the OECD countries when it comes to absence due to illness and disability benefit. However, little is known about how capacity for work changes before and after treatment for mental health problems.

Researchers at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) have now followed more than 2600 patients with everything from mild to severe mental health challenges. All the patients received treatment in either the municipal health service or the specialist health service.

For many people, the start of treatment does not mark a return to working life, but rather the beginning of prolonged or increasing absence." Jakob Lundqvist, psychologist and PhD research fellow at NTNU's Department of Psychology

Still absent a year later

The study shows that the number of people granted sick leave increased sharply in the months before treatment began, but decreased somewhat afterwards.

Strikingly, the use of long-term benefits such as work assessment allowance (AAP) also increased. As a result, the level of absence due to illness remained relatively stable in the year following the start of treatment.

"The result was that over 30 per cent of the respondents were on sick leave, receiving AAP, or on disability benefit one year after treatment for mental health problems had begun," explained Lundqvist.

To understand this better, the researchers not only investigated daily status, as shown in the figure, but also the most common pathways for absence due to illness for each patient before and after treatment.

IN WORK: Approximately half of the people who took part in the study maintained stable capacity for work both the year before and after the start of treatment. RECEIVING AAP: Approximately 30 per cent followed a pathway where their absence due to illness did decrease, but this was compensated for by work assessment allowance (AAP). ON PERMANENT DISABILITY BENEFIT: Approximately 7 per cent were on permanent disability benefit one year after treatment had begun. This is roughly the same proportion as one year before treatment.



Women, elderly people and specialist patients are most at risk

The analysis also found that three groups were at particularly high risk of ending up on a pathway towards increased incapacity for work:

Women

Elderly people

Patients receiving specialist healthcare services

For women, the explanation may be a higher prevalence of mental health problems, gender-segregated occupations with high demands, and work-family role conflicts.

For elderly people, it is often due to slower recovery and comorbidity (the presence of two or more diseases/medical conditions in a single patient at the same time).

The fact that patients being treated by the specialist health services are absent from work for protracted periods can partly be explained by their more severe health issues. However, the situation is not that straightforward.

Waiting times can increase the risk of prolonged absence

There is much to suggest that the patient groups in the municipal and specialist health services largely overlap.

Municipalities provide low-threshold services that help patients receive assistance more quickly, whereas the referral process and waiting time before starting treatment in the specialist health service are usually longer. As a result, many people are absent from work for long periods of time before treatment begins, increasing the risk of them dropping out of working life permanently.

"This may mean that it is not just about the patients' mental health problems, but also about how the health services are organized," said Lundqvist.

Inadequate support

Previous research has shown that the Norwegian welfare system may also be part of the explanation for why so many people are not in work in Norway.

The schemes for sickness benefit, work assessment allowance and disability benefit provide financial security, but are not primarily designed to help people get back to work. Patients often have to manage the process themselves within a system marked by limited contact and coordination between general practitioners, the Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration (NAV), municipal services and the specialist health services.

"This means that returning to work is left too much in the hands of the patient. For many people, this is fairly overwhelming, and it can be especially challenging for people struggling with mental health problems," Lundqvist said.

Some GPs grant more sick leave

The GP Scheme may also play a role. In principle, GPs are self-employed with public funding, and some of their pay is determined per patient according to various rates.

A report from the Norwegian Institute of Public Health shows that self-employed GPs who earn the most from these types of rates often grant sick leave more frequently than their colleagues who receive fixed salaries. They also treat more patients and spend less time per patient.

In practice, sick leave is often the easiest option - for both the doctor and the patient.

When the system rewards short consultations and hastily granted sick leave, this can come at the expense of measures that strengthen the patient's ability to function and capacity for work.

"In practice, sick leave is often the easiest option - for the doctor and the patient. Saying no takes more time, can lead to dissatisfied patients, and entails a financial loss for the doctor. When financial constraints, time pressure and patient satisfaction govern decisions, we risk that the long-term needs of patients receive less focus," said Lundqvist.

Greater focus on symptoms - not ability to function

Another challenge is that psychological treatment often focuses on reducing symptoms, while ability to function in everyday life and capacity for work are often not prioritized.

Lundqvist believes the healthcare system must change its perspective and make capacity for work and ability to function equally important treatment goals as symptom relief.

"Sick leave should not be seen as a form of treatment. It may be necessary, but it rarely improves the person's capacity for work. If we are to succeed, clinicians must strengthen both ability to function in everyday life and capacity for work in parallel with symptom relief. Only then can we reverse the trend," concluded Lundqvist.
Bus tragedy: High-level Indian delegation arrives in Saudi Arabia

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 22:45 IST

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Jeddah, Nov 19 (PTI) A high-level Indian government delegation arrived in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday to provide assistance and oversee relief measures in coordination with Saudi authorities following the tragic bus accident involving Indian pilgrims.

The delegation, led by Andhra Pradesh Governor Justice S Abdul Nazeer, arrived in Madina, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh said in a social media post.

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Indias Ambassador Suhel Khan, Consulate General of India in Jeddah Fahad Suri and Saudi Foreign Ministry officials received the delegation.

The Governor is leading an Indian delegation to Saudi Arabia following the tragic bus accident in Madina involving Indian Umrah pilgrims, in order to render fullest assistance and oversee relief measures," it said.

Arun Kumar Chatterjee, Secretary (CPV & OIA), Ministry of External Affairs, is also part of the delegation.

The delegation is also expected to participate in the last rites of the deceased.

Several Indian Umrah pilgrims, most of them from Telangana, were killed in the horrific bus accident near Saudi Arabias holy city of Madina early Monday.

More than 40 Indians were travelling on the bus that reportedly collided with an oil tanker around 1.30 am (IST), and most of the deceased appeared to be Indians, officials said a day earlier. The bus was learnt to be on its way from Mecca to Madina.

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The Embassy of India, Riyadh and the Consulate General of India, Jeddah, are working closely with the local authorities to expedite the identification of mortal remains.

The Indian government is also facilitating the travel of the families of the deceased to Saudi Arabia. PTI ZH ZH

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 22:45 IST

News agency-feeds Bus tragedy: High-level Indian delegation arrives in Saudi Arabia

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Russia overnight struck Ukraine with 48 missiles of various types and 470 strike drones, nine dead in Ternopil, dozens injured in Kharkiv and Ivano-Frankivsk, Donetsk region, among them children, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reported.

"The consequences of the Russian attack are currently being eliminated in many of our regions. It is known about more than 470 strike drones, 48 missiles of various types - ballistic, cruise - that Russia launched over Ukraine this night," he said on Telegram on Wednesday morning

The president also reported nine dead in Ternopil, where nine-story residential buildings were hit and fires broke out.

"Unfortunately, there is significant destruction of buildings, and there may be people under the rubble. All necessary services are working on the ground, trying to save every life. As of now, dozens of victims are known and, unfortunately, nine people have died. My condolences to the relatives," he wrote.

According to him, Kharkiv has been hit since the evening. Dozens of people in the city have been injured, including children. Energy, transport, and civil infrastructure have been damaged.

"Our energy sector in Ivano-Frankivsk region was attacked. Three people were injured, two of them children. In Lviv region, critical infrastructure, energy, were hit. A person was injured in Donetsk region. Kyiv, Mykolaiv, Cherkasy, Chernihiv, and Dnipro regions were also hit," Zelenskyy said.

"Every brazen attack against ordinary life shows that the pressure on Russia is insufficient. Effective sanctions and assistance to Ukraine can change this. The primary need is air defense missiles, additional systems, increasing the capabilities of our combat aviation, and the production of drones to protect life. Russia must be held accountable for what it has done, and we must be focused on everything that strengthens us and allows us to shoot down Russian missiles, neutralize Russian drones, and stop assaults. Thank you to everyone in the world who is helping," the head of state said.
Copper futures drop for 4th day amid subdued demand

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 14:26 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 19 (PTI) Copper prices extended losses for the fourth straight session in futures trade on Wednesday amid muted demand in the domestic market.

On the Multi Commodity Exchange, copper futures for the December contract decreased by Rs 20, or 0.37 per cent, to Rs 5,356 per kilogram in a business turnover of 11,972 lots.

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However, copper prices gained in the overseas markets. On the London Metals Exchange (LME), copper futures rose by USD 53.30, or 0.50 per cent, to USD 10,751.30 per tonne.

Similarly, the red metal futures on Comex also went up by 0.32 per cent to USD 4.98 per pound.

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The LME base metal is attempting a mild rebound, though gains are likely to remain capped as traders are awaiting the delayed US jobs report and key signals on the Feds policy outlook," brokerage firm Kotak Securities said in a market note.

An expert, said: Traders are likely to stay cautious ahead of key US data releases later this week, which could provide further impetus for industrial metals." PTI HG HG ANU ANU

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:26 IST

News agency-feeds Copper futures drop for 4th day amid subdued demand

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Efforts on for safe return of Jharkhand techie held hostage in Myanmar

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:11 IST

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Ranchi, Nov 19 (PTI) The Indian Embassy in Myanmar is making efforts for the rescue and safe repatriation of a Dhanbad resident allegedly held hostage by cyber frauds in Myawaddy town in Myanmar, officials said.

Team leader of the State Migrant Control Room (Jharkhand Labour department), Shikha Lakra, told PTI on Wednesday that Mohammed Shahzeb Rahmans mother Nishat Afroz had lodged a complaint with the Chief Ministers office on November 12 and acting on the directive of the CMO, they had immediately started the process to rescue the youth.

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Nishat Afroz, a resident of Azadnagar under Bhuli Police Station in Dhanbad district, had complained that her 26-year-old son, who had done mechanical engineering, was being held hostage by operators of a cyber-fraud network in Myawaddy in Myanmar. She also alleged her son was being tortured for money and that they had already sent over Rs 2 lakh. The operators are demanding more money and threatening to kill him and sell his organs," said Lakra.

The official further said that, as per the complaint, Mohammed Shahzeb Rahman, who was working in Bengaluru in an IT firm, was lured under the pretext of lucrative overseas employment and taken out of India in December 2024.

He later contacted his mother through a new WhatsApp number, but was unable to disclose his whereabouts. On October 9, he sent a message via Telegram stating that he was being held hostage and tortured by unknown individuals in the Myawaddy area of Myanmar and that a ransom of Rs 2,20,000 had been demanded for his release. Her mother claimed that they had already sent over Rs 4.4 lakh on the number sent by the operator," said Lakra.

We got in touch with the Protector of Emigrants, Ranchi and the Indian Embassy in Myanmar for immediate action. The Indian Embassy officials on Monday informed us that the issue had been taken up with the concerned Myanmar authorities on a priority basis.

The situation is complex as the Myawaddy area is not under the effective control of the local administration. Her mother on Monday informed that her son has been shifted to Yatai New City. We have intimated the developments to Embassy officials, and efforts are being made to expedite the rescue operation," added Lakra.

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Afroz said Shahzeb is her only child.

My husband left long ago. Shahzeb is my only child. He took care of me, worked any job he could find, and supported my medicines. If something happens to him, I have no one left in this world," she told PTI. PTI ANB RG

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:11 IST

News agency-feeds Efforts on for safe return of Jharkhand techie held hostage in Myanmar

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Elderly man loses Rs 26 lakh in cyber fraud

Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

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Mumbai, Nov 19 (PTI) An 81-year-old city-based man was duped of nearly Rs 26 lakh by a cyber fraudster, who posed as a bank representative, a police official said here on Wednesday.

The complainant, a resident of Mumbai Central and a retired junior engineer from the Northern Railway, received a phone call on 12 November from a person claiming to be a representative of his bank. Shortly thereafter, he made a video call and falsely informed the victim that his life certificate has been cancelled.

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On the pretext of verifying the details, the fraudster tried to obtain the senior citizens debit card number and PIN. However, the complainant refused to share the details and switched off his phone after suspecting foul play.

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When he switched the phone back after an hour, he found that he has received several messages from the bank. It was then found that the fraudster carried out eight online transactions and transferred close to Rs 26 lakh from the victims account into various other bank accounts, the police said.

The senior citizen immediately contacted the cyber police helpline and lodged a complaint, they said. PTI ZA NP

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First Published: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Elderly man loses Rs 26 lakh in cyber fraud

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Elderly woman who donated her body gets MP govts 'guard of honour' farewell

Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

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Indore, Nov 19 (PTI) A 72-year-old woman who donated her body was given a posthumous guard of honour by the Madhya Pradesh government on Wednesday, officials said.

Police personnel presented a Guard of Honour to Vinita Khandekar at the citys Index Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre in the presence of senior officials, and her body was handed over to the medical institution for education and research.

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Jitu Bagani, an activist with the Muskaan Group, an NGO involved in the body donation campaign, told PTI that Khandekar died on Tuesday due to a brain-related problem.

As per Khandekars last wish, her family decided to donate her body for the welfare of humanity after completing the legal formalities," he said.

Officials said the state government has decided to provide the state honour in the form of a Guard of Honour" to individuals who donate their bodies and organs posthumously.

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During the Guard of Honour," uniformed police personnel or soldiers stand in a line with their weapons in place. Upon the command of the officer leading the guard, members of the squad raise their weapons to the salute position to express respect for the person in question.

As per government protocol, the Guard of Honour" is usually reserved for individuals belonging to the special and very special categories. PTI HWP MAS NSK

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First Published: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

News agency-feeds Elderly woman who donated her body gets MP govts 'guard of honour' farewell

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Karnataka govt unveils 50 startup innovations at Bengaluru Tech Summit

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 22:15 IST

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Bengaluru, Nov 19 (PTI) The Karnataka government on Wednesday unveiled 50 innovative products and solutions developed by startups on the second day of the 28th edition of the Bengaluru Tech Summit.

Among the innovators was eight-year-old Athvik Amith Kumar, the youngest participant, who launched Zozo Connect, a digital business card, in the presence of IT Minister Priyank Kharge and other dignitaries.

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Officials said Zozo Connect aims to simplify networking through smart, seamless sharing and easy branding.

According to an official statement, the products showcased are multidisciplinary and sector-agnostic.

They span IT/ITeS, agri-tech, med-tech, healthcare, clean-tech, artificial intelligence, deep tech, Internet of Things, cybersecurity, Software as a Service (SaaS), R&D, Animation, Visual Effects, Gaming and Comics, and Electronics System Design and Manufacturing (ESDM).

The products and solutions include electronic devices using AI and IoT, automotive manufacturing tools, avionics and defence technologies, effluent air treatment systems, SaaS platforms, apps to prevent fraudulent transactions, digital theatre solutions, smart warehousing tools, and satcom technologies.

They also feature deep-tech platforms for quality assessment, the statement said.

Most of the startups involved are incubated at Karnataka government-supported facilities such as K-Tech Innovation Hubs, Centres of Excellence, and Technology Business Incubators anchored by IISc.

They are also supported by industry associations like NASSCOM and the India Electronics & Semiconductor Association (IESA).

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They developed these solutions using state-of-the-art infrastructure available at these hubs, officials said.

Most of the startups are also recipients of the governments flagship Idea2PoC (Proof of Concept) ELEVATE grant-in-aid seed funding programme," the statement added. PTI AMP SSK

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 22:15 IST

News agency-feeds Karnataka govt unveils 50 startup innovations at Bengaluru Tech Summit

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Kunal Kemmu-starrer 'Single Papa' to premiere on December 12 on Netflix

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:11 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 19 (PTI) Single Papa", the Netflix series headlined by Kunal Kemmu, is set to release on December 12, the streaming platform said on Wednesday.

Created and co-produced by Ishita Moitra and Neeraj Udhwani, with Shashank Khaitan as the executive producer, and directing alongside Hitesh Kewalya and Neeraj Udhwani, the series is produced by Aditya Pittie and Samar Khan under the Juggernaut Productions banner.

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The series follows Gaurav Gehlot (Kemmu) a lovable man-child whose emotional age can best be described as work in progress." His sudden decision to adopt a baby right after his divorce, leaves his family so shocked they briefly consider rebooting him, according to a press release.

Single Papa shows the messy, colorful chaos that makes a family special. Playing Gaurav, who is figuring out how to be a dad, made me laugh, cry, and reminded me how much parenting is trial and error, and a whole lot of love. Im excited for everyone to meet my cute baby and join this joyride with my great Indian family," Kemmu said in a statement.

Im beyond thrilled to team up with Netflix again, but this time, going back to my roots with a light, warm, family entertainer! Single Papa is pure fun and all heart, and working with this incredible cast has been an absolute blast. I cant wait for everyone to dive into the crazy, charming little world weve cooked up," Khaitan added.

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It also features Prajakta Kohli, Manoj Pahwa and Ayesha Raza in pivotal roles.

Tanya Bami, series head at Netflix said, Single Papa is one of those rare stories that instantly makes you smile because it taps into something so real, warm, and universally relatable. It captures the chaos, humour, and tenderness of parenting in a way that feels both current and timeless. PTI SMR ATR SMR ATR ATR

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:11 IST

News agency-feeds Kunal Kemmu-starrer 'Single Papa' to premiere on December 12 on Netflix

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Maharashtra: Burglary accused absconding for 31 years held in Latur

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:11 IST

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Latur, Nov 19 (PTI) The police in Maharashtras Latur city have arrested a 55-year-old man, who was on the run for over 31 years after allegedly committing a burglary, officials have said.

Deepak Nivrutti Kamble is among the three accused who allegedly broke into the house of complainant Dattu Babu Navghan, a resident of Zinnat Society, in February 1994 and stole Rs 11,000 cash, 24 sarees and many household items.

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Since the registration of the case, key accused Kamble had vanished, an official said on Tuesday.

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Recently, police received information that Kamble, a resident of Vilasnagar, had quietly returned and was staying in the same locality. After verifying the details, they arrested him on Monday, he said.

A local court has remanded Kamble in judicial custody, the official added. PTI COR NR

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:11 IST

News agency-feeds Maharashtra: Burglary accused absconding for 31 years held in Latur

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Mekedatu project: Karnataka govt decided to submit revised DPR, says Shivakumar

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 22:45 IST

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Bengaluru, Nov 19 (PTI) Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar on Wednesday clarified that the state government decided to submit a revised Detailed Project Report to the Centre for the Mekedatu project across the Cauvery river, following the Supreme Courts order rejecting Tamil Nadus plea against it.

Shivakumar, who also holds the Water Resources portfolio, had said on Tuesday that a fresh" DPR would be sent to the central authorities.

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Not a new DPR. The existing one will be modified. Some objections were raised, and those need to be addressed before submission. Also, the project cost has changed compared to earlier. We will revise it accordingly. The rest we will leave to the central government," Shivakumar told reporters here.

His office later issued a clarification stating that the Karnataka government has decided to submit a revised DPR after updating the cost as per the current Schedule of Rates (2025-26 price level).

The previous DPR was prepared using the 2018-19 Schedule of Rates and submitted to the Central Water Commission (CWC) on January 18, 2019.

It had not been taken up for appraisal due to administrative and legal constraints. The way is now clear following the Supreme Court order dated November 13, 2025, the statement said.

On November 13, the Supreme Court rejected a plea by the Tamil Nadu government challenging Karnatakas construction of the Mekedatu Balancing Reservoir Project, calling the petition premature".

A bench comprising Chief Justice of India B R Gavai and Justices K Vinod Chandran and N V Anjaria said the plan would be approved only after considering Tamil Nadus objections and the views of expert bodiesthe Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC) and the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA).

Mekedatu is a proposed multi-purpose (drinking water and power) project involving the construction of a balancing reservoir near Kanakapura in Ramanagara district (now renamed Bengaluru South district).

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Tamil Nadu has opposed the project, expressing fears that it would adversely affect the state.

According to officials, the project aims to provide 4.75 tmcft of drinking water to Bengaluru and neighbouring areas and can generate 400 MW of power once completed. PTI KSU SSK ROH

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 22:45 IST

News agency-feeds Mekedatu project: Karnataka govt decided to submit revised DPR, says Shivakumar

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Pakistan: Newlywed girl found hanging in Karachi

Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 02:45 IST

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Karachi [Pakistan], November 20 (ANI): An 18-year-old woman was found hanging on the roof of a residential building on the intervening night of Monday and Tuesday, ARY News reported. As per ARY News, citing police, the victim was identified as Zainab who had shifted from Sialkot to Karachi and was residing in her husbands maternal aunts house in Defence Housing Authority, following her marriage. The police are investigating the matter following the complaint of victims father. Earlier this month, a fresh spate of violence swept across Balochistan, leaving nine people dead and two others abducted in separate incidents across Kalat, Nasirabad, and Jhal Magsi districts, exposing once again the provinces worsening security landscape, as reported by Dawn.According to Dawn, the most brutal assault took place in Kalat districts Khaliqabad area, where unidentified gunmen opened fire in the Sarbund locality, killing four individuals, including tribal leader Shakir Saadullah Langove and his brother Shakir Khairullah Langove. The officials from Pakistans provincial paramilitary forces, Levies, confirmed that the other two victims were Muhammad Karim and Muhammad Zahir. The attackers fled after the shooting, prompting an immediate investigation by authorities.In another violent episode, two men identified as Muhammad Zafar and Muhammad Naeem were gunned down by motorcycle-borne assailants in Panjgurs Shpistan area. Their bodies were taken to the local district hospital, while police have yet to establish the motive behind the targeted attack. The unrest extended to Nasirabad district, where two excavator drivers, Aashiq Ali Mohammad Hasni and Shakeel Ahmed Korai, were abducted at gunpoint near Rabi Canal Sufi Wah, within the Notal police station limits. The armed men left behind the heavy machinery as they escaped.Law enforcement agencies have since launched a large-scale search operation to locate the missing workers. Violence also flared in Kachhi district, where Abdul Qadir Kurd was shot dead in Goth Misri Khan by unknown gunmen. Meanwhile, in Jhal Magsi, a deadly land dispute between the Solangi and Wazdani Magsi tribes turned into a gun battle, killing Muhammad Bachal Magsi. Authorities intervened to defuse tensions after the clash, as cited by Dawn. (ANI)

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First Published: November 20, 2025, 02:45 IST

News agency-feeds Pakistan: Newlywed girl found hanging in Karachi

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The Jhelum Betrayal: A Bold, Lyrical, and Fearless Reimagining of Mughal India

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:11 IST

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In The Jhelum Betrayal, the second book in his ambitious Curse of the Mughals series, Niraj Srivastava showcases a remarkable talent: he brings the past to life in a way that feels both vibrant and unsettlingly unresolved. If Daggers of Treason introduced Srivastava as a historian-novelist with impressive insight, this sequel cements his status as one of the boldest voices re-examining the Mughal era today. From the very first pages, Srivastava weaves together meticulous research with a daring narrative style. The novel begins in the haunting stillness of Anarkalis mausoleum in Lahore, a place caught between documented history and whispered legends. He uses this site as part myth, part stone, a launching pad for a deep exploration of how history is shaped, twisted, and sometimes intentionally hidden away. This theme runs richly throughout the book.

The story kicks off with the discovery of a worn manuscript and a faded Shahi Farmaan in Benares, setting the stage for the central mystery. This fragmentary evidence, presented with a level of detail that even Dalrymple would appreciate, becomes the pivotal point around which the entire narrative revolves. Srivastava poses thought-provoking questions: How trustworthy are the histories we accept? Who gets to narrate them? And what if the most iconic woman of the Mughal era, Empress Nur Jahan, had a secret identity that could challenge centuries of established belief? Heres where the book truly shines: it dares to challenge the status quo while staying true to its core. Srivastava brings Lahore to life with its ghostly whispers; Agra buzzes with ambition; and the Mughal court becomes a bustling hub of favours, betrayals, and ever-shifting loyalties. The political scene is painted with remarkable clarity. We see Jahangirs vulnerability tinged with opium, Prince Khusraus heartbreaking rebellion, Khurrams cold calculations, and the haunting imprisonment of Guru Hargovind, all depicted with a blend of narrative flair and historical accuracy.

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Srivastava excels at illustrating the unpredictable interplay between power and danger. The bizarre abduction of Jahangir by Mahabat Khan one of the most peculiar tales in Mughal history, comes alive with intense immediacy. The emotional depth of the novel is equally striking. The bond between Jahangir and Nur Jahan unfolds with complexity: its part political strategy, part tragic romance, and part a tangled connection between two individuals acutely aware of the empires fragility.

But the real genius hits us later in the story, when a letter from Nur Jahan unveils a shocking truth that reshapes everything we thought we knew. Its a moment that compels us to grapple with the blurry line between documented history and concealed truths, a line that Srivastava challenges time and again.

What sets The Jhelum Betrayal apart from typical historical fiction is its bold intellectual ambition. This novel doesnt just bring the Mughal era to life; it dives deep into it. Srivastava takes readers on a journey through archives, forgotten temples, and dusty manuscripts, exploring palaces where the official narratives often hid more than they revealed.

With its lyrical prose, rich atmosphere, and willingness to challenge the status quo, The Jhelum Betrayal emerges as one of the most captivating reimaginings of the Mughal story in recent memory. Its a book that will not only fascinate history buffs but also provoke scholars and enchant anyone who revels in the blend of myth, memory, and imperial intrigue.

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This isnt just historical fiction for escapism; its a journey of revelation.

(Disclaimer: The above press release comes to you under an arrangement with NRDPL and PTI takes no editorial responsibility for the same.). PTI PWR

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 16:11 IST

News agency-feeds The Jhelum Betrayal: A Bold, Lyrical, and Fearless Reimagining of Mughal India

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Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko has held a meeting with the leaders of Ternopil, Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions, which suffered from the night attack by the Russian Federation, and stated that the government will provide all necessary assistance to the regions.

"I just held an online meeting with the Minister of Internal Affairs, the leaders of Ternopil, Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions. I listened to reports on the consequences of the Russian attack and further liquidation work," Svyrydenko said on Telegram.

She stated that as of now, nine people are known to have died in Ternopil, another 22 people are injured.

"The State Emergency Service rescuers are eliminating the consequences, clearing the rubble. The head of the service is at the scene of the attacks. Indestructibility points are working. In addition, additional infrastructure has been deployed to support people: heating points, food. Investigators are working to record the crime," the Prime Minister said, emphasizing that the government is in touch with the regions and will provide all necessary assistance.
Union Minister Bhupender Yadav met China's special envoy for climate change

Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 00:45 IST

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Belem [Brazil], November 20 (ANI): Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav on Wednesday met Chinas special envoy for climate change Liu Zhenmin on the sidelines of COP30 in Belem, Brazil.Met with Mr Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change, China, on the sidelines of COP30 in Belem today. Our discussions involved matters related to co-ordination between LMDC countries in the ongoing developments in COP30, with particular focus on maintaining the integrity of the Paris Agreement," Bhupender Yadav wrote on X.

Met with Mr Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change, China, on the sidelines of COP30 in Belem today. Our discussions involved matters related to co-ordination between LMDC countries in the ongoing developments in COP30, with particular focus on maintaining the integrity pic.twitter.com/m5bah3KUyX  Bhupender Yadav (@byadavbjp) November 19, 2025

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Earlier, Bhupender Yadav, addressed the High-Level Ministerial Segment on the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) at UNFCCC CoP30 in Belem, Brazil, on Monday.He called for renewed global cooperation to protect big cat species and their habitats as part of integrated climate and biodiversity action, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.The event was graced by the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Government of Nepal, Madan Prasad Pariyar, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.The Minister thanked Brazil for hosting the event and noted the timeliness of the theme: Protecting Big Cats, Protecting Climate and Biodiversity." He further emphasised that ecological challenges today are deeply interconnected and require linked solutions.Yadav noted that Big cats are apex predators, regulators of ecological balance, and sentinels of ecosystem health. Where big cats thrive, forests are healthier, grasslands regenerate, water systems function, and carbon is stored efficiently in living landscapes".He also highlighted that declines in big cat populations lead to destabilised ecosystems, weakened resilience to climate change, and loss of natural carbon sinks. (ANI)

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First Published: November 20, 2025, 00:45 IST

News agency-feeds Union Minister Bhupender Yadav met China's special envoy for climate change

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What teenagers want adults to know about their digital lives

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:26 IST

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Stockholm, Nov 19 (The Conversation) Teenagers all over the world use social media and messaging apps as part of their daily lives. This is accompanied by growing concerns about negative effects of social media on youth mental health  and ongoing debates around limiting screen time and access to digital devices.

Whats frequently missing in these conversations, though, is what teenagers themselves think. How do online activities affect their mental health? How do they want adults to engage with them around this issue? Figuring out the concerns that young people have is crucial to addressing the ways these might be affecting their mental health.

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In our recent research, we collaborated with Unicef and partners around the world to interview over 490 young people aged ten to 19 about their mental health and use of digital communication.

This was a unique study, given the diversity of countries included: Belgium, Chile, Egypt, Indonesia, Jamaica, Jordan, China, Malawi, Switzerland, Sweden and the US.

We found that the young people had nuanced views. They reflected on both positive and negative aspects of digital communication. The views they expressed were fairly similar across countries and income levels, pointing to shared sentiments among young people in an increasingly globalised digital world.

Across countries, young people repeatedly mentioned that adults are not sufficiently involved or do not understand what children and teenagers do online.

They also pointed out that adults too seldom reflect on their own digital activities. And perhaps contrary to what adults might expect, young people wanted adults to know and care about their online lives.

A young boy from Chile said: I have a friend that I met through a game. He speaks to me six days a week to tell me that he has problems and that he cannot tell his parents, because when he tells them they minimise it. I try to help him [] but I am not an adult who has lived those things." Many participants emphasised that digital communication can provide social and emotional support and belonging, which are good for wellbeing. But young people also reported how digital interactions can increase stress and anxiety by constant social comparisons, cyberbullying and time-wasting. They wanted adults to give them more guidance about how to deal with what they experienced online.

According to the young people, the quality of their online interactions is really important. Positive and supportive communication tends to act as a buffer to negative emotions. Negative interactions or passive consumption of others content, however, tend to create or amplify poor mental health, such as symptoms of depression.

Comparisons and bullying They told us that constant comparisons with celebrities and influencers  their physical appearance and economic success  create unrealistic life expectations and promote harmful gender stereotypes.

For girls in particular, this meant a pressure to look pretty", as well as feeling that their self-worth was linked to the number of likes or interactions received on social media posts.

Many young people told us they knew that online content is not necessarily genuine, but that such social comparisons still affected their mental health negatively.

A teenage boy in Sweden said: I think social media has a very big influence. You compare yourself with other people. You dont see that they are another human being, [that] they have other problems. You only see this facade of a human being that is perfect, and it makes you feel worse." Another major negative aspect was bullying on social media or in chat groups. Digital tools extend bullying from physical settings, such as in school, into young peoples private spaces. With social networks we are never protected from the opinions of others," one boy said.

Both boys and girls feared their photos being misused or being disseminated in embarrassing or threatening ways. Young people in a number of countries also felt that girls are more vulnerable to sexually explicit abuse online.

But young people globally agreed that digital communication helps them to develop and strengthen their social connections. Our interviews took place during the COVID-19 pandemic, when this connection was particularly important.

Social media helped them to make new friends from far away who shared similar interests or faced similar challenges. This created mutual support to navigate mental health challenges.

A teenage girl in Chile said: You sometimes get stuck on the internet because there are people who you can get to know, who for example have the same interests, and there you no longer feel rejected The people around you, they do not accept you [The internet] can make you feel better, like you are not alone." The young people also told us that social media and online gaming distract them from problems and stressors, helping them cope with mental distress. They talked about the value of anonymous help for mental distress online, as well as being able to find accessible information about mental health online.

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To help young people deal with how their online lives affect their mental health, adults need to strengthen their own digital literacy and listen to young peoples perspectives.

Initiatives that promote safer online environments should be designed together with young people to be relevant, trusted, and effective. (The Conversation) SCY SCY

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:26 IST

News agency-feeds What teenagers want adults to know about their digital lives

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What to know about F-35 fighter jet that Trump is selling to Saudi Arabia

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 06:11 IST

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Washington, Nov 19 (AP) President Donald Trump says he has agreed to sell the nations most advanced fighter jet to Saudi Arabia despite concerns that China could gain access to the planes vaunted American technology.

The sale to the Middle Eastern nation, whose top trading partner is China, was reaffirmed Tuesday during Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans visit to Washington.

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Some in the Republican administration also have been wary that selling the F-35 to Saudi Arabia will upset Israels qualitative military edge over its neighbours, especially at a time when Trump is depending on Israeli support for the success of his Gaza peace plan.

Israel, which deployed the F-35 in its 12-day war against Iran in June, is among 19 other nations that already have the plane or have agreements to buy it.

It was nearly 20 years ago when the first F-35 Lightning strike fighter rolled off an assembly line in Fort Worth, Texas, hailed as a technological leap and lamented as a military money pit.

Since then, more than 1,200 of the stealth jets have been made, underpinning what Lockheed Martin says are nearly 300,000 jobs connected to its supply chain across 49 states and Puerto Rico. The planes have been delivered to the US Air Force, Navy and Marines.

Here are things to know about the F-35: The fighter jet is coveted by many Marines used the F-35 to execute strikes against enemy targets in Afghanistan, while Italian F-35s were part of a NATO response in September to Russian aircraft in Estonian airspace.

But the stubby-nosed aircraft with twin tail fins has been criticised since its inception, in part because it was designed to serve the varying needs of three different military branches. For example, the Navy launches them off aircraft carriers, while the Marines Corps version can take off and land like a helicopter.

It is the most expensive Pentagon spending program ever  they cost up to USD 77 million a piece in 2023, according to the Congressional Research Service  while they have been famously beset with cost overruns and delays.

Meanwhile, China may have at least some intelligence, albeit several years old, on the planes already. The Defense Science Board, which advises the Pentagon, released a report in 2013 alleging that Chinese cyberattacks accessed data from dozens of Pentagon programs, including the joint strike fighter.

The most advanced US fighter jet The F-35 is widely recognised as Americas best and most advanced fighter jet," according to Bradley Bowman, senior director of the Center on Military and Political Power at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.

Bowman noted that American military systems are constantly being updated and improved, counteracting any possible stolen secrets years ago.

Thats why you have 19 partner nations already and why countries like Saudi Arabia want it," Bowman said. If the aircraft was so compromised because of theft from the Chinese, the Saudis wouldnt want it." First proposed in the 1990s, the F-35 was meant to replace several aging fighters, including the Air Forces workhorse F-16. The plane was designed to allow pilots to easily shift from bombing runs to aerial combat on the same mission.

Described as a fifth-generation fighter, its technologies include stealth coatings as well as advanced radar and sensors, according to the Congressional Research Service.

What makes the F-35 particularly formidable is the increased difficulty our adversaries have in detecting it," Bowman said. So if you cant see it, you cant kill it." Bowman said the plane also has advanced sensors to better detect enemies as well as networking capabilities to communicate with allied planes and ground forces during combat.

Each plane was supposed to be relatively cheap to build, with each variation constructed on the same assembly line. But as the first F-35 prepared for its inaugural flight in 2006, the programs cost had grown substantially.

High costs for the aircraft According to a September report from the Government Accountability Office, a Defense Department estimate said maintaining, operating and modernising the planned 2,470 planes over a 77-year life cycle will exceed USD 2 trillion.

The report also found that Lockheed delivered 110 aircraft last year, all of which were late by an average of 238 days, up from 61 days in 2023." Meanwhile, there have been concerns about readiness. In 2023, the rate at which the aircraft can perform one of its tasked missions was about 55 per cent, far below program goals, the Government Accountability Office found. Part of the problem was delays in setting up maintenance facilities, inadequate equipment and supply issues.

Dan Grazier, a senior fellow and director of the National Security Reform Program at the Stimson Center, said the F-35 program has ultimately been a failure.

He pointed to the aircrafts stealth coating to evade radar detection, which he said requires a lot of maintenance, while a camera system to provide situational awareness also has had problems.

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It does not matter what kind of transformational combat capability an aircraft has if it cannot be relied upon," he said, The F-35 was designed to replace several different older airplanes at once, Grazier said, noting that it does a lot of things kind of well, but it doesnt do anything great." It also costs a fortune," he said. So you pay a fortune for an aircraft that is actually in many cases less capable than what came before it." Lockheed Martin pushed back on such criticisms.

The F-35 is the cornerstone of the battlespace for 20 allied nations, enabling peace through strength," the company said in a statement. It is combat proven and offers the most advanced capability and technology. With more than 1 million hours flown and more than 1,255 aircraft in service, the F-35 is an indispensable contributor to global security." (AP) OZ OZ

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 06:11 IST

News agency-feeds What to know about F-35 fighter jet that Trump is selling to Saudi Arabia

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When Indira Gandhi edited English translation of Tagore's Ekla Chalo Re

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:26 IST

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New Delhi, Nov 19 (PTI) Indira Gandhi had sharp literary sensibilities, which were betrayed in an edit job she did on an English translation of the iconic Rabindranath Tagore poem Ekla Chalo Re, Congress leader Jairam Ramesh said on Wednesday, the former prime ministers 108th birth anniversary.

Ramesh, the partys general secretary and in-charge, communications, said Indira Gandhi had a special relationship with Tagore, having spent some nine months at Shantiniketan during July 1934-April 1935. She was an annual visitor to Visva-Bharati." In the last month of her extraordinary life, she had a wonderful exchange with one of her closest aides, HY Sharada Prasad, on Tagores poem Ekla Chalo Re, which was her favourite, Ramesh recalled.

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He shared on X an article written two years ago and which spoke about her sensitive and diligent" edits on the Bengali writers work.

Tagores iconic poem Ekla Chalo Re was not only Indira Gandhis favourite, it also brought out her latent literary sensibilities. Her sensitive and diligent edits on an English translation of the work was found in the archives of her long-time press adviser H.Y. Sharada Prasad, along with other memorabilia," read the article by Sanjiva Prasad, son of Sharada Prasad.

In the last month of her life, Indira Gandhi, my father, and the noted sculptor Sankho Chaudhuri had several interactions. One of the last executive actions of Indira Gandhi, on October 30, 1984, was to approve the appointment of Sankho Chaudhuri as the Chairman of the Lalit Kala Akademi," Prasad wrote.

While the veteran politician Ram Niwas Mirdha had won the most votes in an election for the post, he had the good sense and cultural sensibilities to suggest that one respected artist should succeed another as Chairman of the arts academy.

But a more interesting interaction that took place over the month centred on a translation of Tagores memorable song Jodi tor dak shune keu na ashe that contains the memorable phrase Ekla Chalo, which inspired Indira Gandhi. However, the translations of this poem did not seem to satisfy her exacting standards," the article read.

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My father had on several occasions said that Indira Gandhi worked tirelessly on her speeches and would have made an excellent sub-editor. He also maintained that her intellect and education were of the highest calibre, with leading writers and philosophers like Iris Murdoch and Andre Malraux seeking out her company. How particular she could be about words and their meaning can be seen here," Prasad wrote, and gave an account of the changes and suggestions made by Gandhi for the English translation of the work.

I do not know who the little girl reader was that Indira Gandhi had in mind or whether her version of Tagores great poem-song ever got published, but looking at her painstaking work on the poem, even in an unfinished form, one can appreciate her literary sensibilities," he wrote. PTI ASK VN VN

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:26 IST

News agency-feeds When Indira Gandhi edited English translation of Tagore's Ekla Chalo Re

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:48 IST

PM Kisan 21st Instalment Updates: Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday released the 21st instalment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, disbursing Rs 18,000 crore to more than nine crore farmers. Under the scheme, eligible farmers receive Rs 2,000 every four monthstotalling Rs 6,000 annuallydirectly into their bank accounts via DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).

During the event, PM Modi also inaugurated the South India Natural Farming Summit.

The previous 20th instalment was released in August, benefiting over 9.8 crore farmers, including 2.4 crore women farmers.

Across the first 20 instalments, PM Modi has disbursed more than Rs 3,90,000 crore under the scheme.
PM Kisan 21st Instalment Released: How To Check If You Have Received The Rs 2,000 Tranche?

Reported By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:22 IST

PM Kisan Samman Niddhi Scheme: PM Modi releases latest 21st installment of PM Kisan worth over Rs 18,000 crore to over nine crore farmers in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu.

PM Kisan 21st Installment Released.

PM Kisan Yojana Samman Niddhi Scheme: In order to benefit farmers, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday released the latest 21st installment of the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi scheme worth Rs 18,000 crore to over nine crore farmers in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. Under PM Kisan, eligible farmers receive Rs 2,000 every four months, adding up to Rs 6,000 a year, directly into their bank accounts through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).

PM Modi also inaugurated the South India Natural Farming Summit in Coimbatore.

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PM Modi had released the previous 20th installment in August, benefitting over 9.8 crore farmers, including 2.4 crore female farmers.

In the previous 20 installments, PM Modi released a total of over Rs 3,90,000 crore.

After the release of the PM Kisan 21st installment, crores of farmers are now checking whether the money has been credited to their bank accounts. If you are a beneficiary and want to confirm whether the latest installment has reached you, here are the ways to check:

How To Check PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Status?

1. Check Installment Status on the PM-Kisan Website

The official PM-Kisan portal provides a real-time update on your payment status.

Visit the official website: pmkisan.gov.in

Click on Know Your Status on the homepage.

Enter your Aadhaar number, PM-Kisan ID, or registered mobile number.

Enter the captcha and click Get Status.

You will be able to see whether the 21st installment has been credited, the date of transfer, and your beneficiary status.

2. Use the PM-Kisan Mobile App

Farmers who prefer mobile access can check using the official app.

Install the PM-KISAN mobile app from the Google Play Store.

Open the app and select Beneficiary Status".

Enter your Aadhaar or mobile number.

The app will show the status of all previously credited installments, including the latest one.

3. Check Your Bank Account or SMS Alerts

The installment is credited directly to your bank account linked with PM-Kisan.

Farmers usually receive an SMS from their bank confirming the credit.

If you didnt receive an SMS:

Visit your banks nearest branch

Update your passbook

Or check your balance on mobile banking / micro ATM / AePS services through your Aadhaar-linked fingerprint scan

4. Contact Your Local Agriculture Office or CSC

If your installment shows as pending, on hold, or rejected, officials at:

The local agriculture department office, or

The nearest Common Service Centre (CSC)

can help you check what went wrongusually issues related to Aadhaar mismatch, bank account seeding, or incomplete e-KYC.

5. Ensure Your e-KYC Is Completed

Many farmers miss their installments because Aadhaar e-KYC is incomplete.

You can complete it either:

Online on pmkisan.gov.in, or

At a CSC for biometric e-KYC.

This is mandatory for receiving future installments.

It is important to note that PM Kisan 21st installment of over Rs 710 crore was already released to 35 lakh farmers in four flood-affected states earlier.

Who Is Eligible To Receive The PM Kisan 21st Installment?

All landholding farmers families that have cultivable landholding in their names are eligible to get benefits under the PM Kisan scheme. However, there is an exclusion criterion also.

What Is PM Kisan Scheme?

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Under the PM Kisan scheme, eligible farmers get Rs 2,000 every four months, which is Rs 6,000 annually. The money is provided each year in three instalments  April-July, August-November and December-March. The fund is directly transferred to the bank accounts of the beneficiaries.

The scheme was announced in the Interim Budget 2019 by then finance minister Piyush Goyal and was later launched by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. It has now become the worlds biggest Direct Benefit Transfer scheme.

About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalis... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:24 IST

News business economy PM Kisan 21st Instalment Released: How To Check If You Have Received The Rs 2,000 Tranche?

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Infosys Buyback Worth Rs 18,000 Crore Opens Tomorrow: Key Details For Investors

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 11:00 IST

IT major Infosys Ltd on Tuesday (November 18) said it will open its buyback window on November 20, 2025; What investors should know

Infosys share buyback.

Infosys Share Buyback: IT major Infosys Ltd on Tuesday (November 18) said it will open its buyback window on November 20, 2025, for up to 10 crore fully paid-up equity shares of face value Rs 5 each. This represents 2.41% of its paid-up equity share capital on a standalone basis. The buyback will be conducted through the tender offer route at Rs 1,800 per share, aggregating to Rs 18,000 crore. The buyback window will close on November 26.

Small shareholders can tender two equity shares for every 11 shares held as of the November 14 record date. General category shareholders are entitled to tender 17 equity shares for every 706 shares held. Kotak Mahindra Capital Company Limited is the manager to the buyback, while KFin Technologies Limited will serve as the registrar.

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Infosys said the buyback is being undertaken after considering its medium-term operational and strategic cash requirements and to return surplus funds to shareholders effectively in line with its capital allocation policy.

Purpose of the Buyback

Infosys aims to steadily increase its annual dividend per share (excluding special dividends) and believes the buyback will enhance long-term shareholder value by reducing the equity base.

As per the companys Capital Allocation Policy, Effective from financial year 2025, the Company expects to continue its policy of returning approximately 85 per cent of the free cash flow cumulatively over a 5-year period through a combination of semi-annual dividends and/or share buybacks/special dividends, subject to applicable laws and requisite approvals, if any."

Promoters and promoter group members, including Nandan M Nilekani and Sudha Murty, will not participate in the buyback. They collectively hold 13.05% of the companys equity as of the announcement date.

Infosys Buyback: How Much Can You Tender Based on the Record Date?

Infosys set November 14, 2025, as the record date to determine shareholder eligibility and entitlement for its buyback. After analysing shareholder data, the company announced the entitlement ratios: 2:11 for small shareholders and 17:706 for the general category.

This means small shareholders can tender two shares for every eleven held, while general-category investors can tender seventeen shares for every seven hundred and six held.

Entitlement plays a crucial role in a tender offer as it indicates the maximum number of shares a shareholder can tender. However, it does not guarantee acceptanceit only sets the upper limit.

Infosys clarified the concept of entitlement and entitlement ratios in the buyback process.

Entitlement refers to the number of shares a shareholder is permitted to tender based on their holding as of the record date.

The entitlement ratio shows the proportion of shares that can be offered relative to total holdings.

These figures are calculated considering the total buyback size, the number of eligible shareholders, and category-wise demand.

Investors typically tender more than their entitlement, hoping for higher acceptance depending on overall participation.

Infosys share buyback: Tax implications

The next big question is, do these buybacks have tax implications? As per the new tax rules that came into force on October 1, 2024, there is no tax levied on the company. The amount that the shareholders get is deemed the same as a dividend, and they need to pay tax as per the income tax slab they qualify for.

Analyst Commentary

When Infosys first announced the buyback, analysts covering the IT sector described it as a strong signal of the managements confidence in the companys long-term prospects. Even though Infosys share price has come under pressure due to a difficult year marked by valuation concerns and demand weakness, its substantial cash reserves enable the company to reward shareholders and indicate that current valuations remain attractive.

Over the past year, Infosys has grappled with slower discretionary tech spending, regulatory uncertainties in the US, and a broader industry pivot toward AI-led transformation. These challenges have weighed on sentiment and contributed to share price volatility.

However, analysts believe Infosys continues to possess robust fundamentalsincluding a healthy deal pipeline, solid cash flows, and a strong global delivery track record. The buyback highlights managements conviction that the company is well-positioned for recovery as tech budgets stabilise and AI-led demand accelerates.

Buyback History

Infosys announced its first share buyback in 2017, repurchasing 11.3 crore shares (4.92% of its paid-up equity share capital) at Rs 1,150 per share for approximately Rs 13,000 crore.

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In 2019, the company undertook an Rs 8,260 crore buyback, followed by another worth Rs 9,200 crore. Its most recent programme before this one was a Rs 9,300 crore buyback in 202223 conducted through the open market at a maximum price of Rs 1,850 per share.

In Wednesday morning trade, Infosys shares were trading 2% higher at Rs 1,516 on the NSE.

About the Author Aparna Deb Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:21 IST

News business markets Infosys Buyback Worth Rs 18,000 Crore Opens Tomorrow: Key Details For Investors

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Stocks To Watch: HUL, Infosys, TCS, Mahanagar Gas, NSDL, Groww, GR Infra, And Others

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 07:48 IST

Stocks to watch: Shares of firms like RIL, Paytm, Tata Power, HCL Tech, KPI Green, SJVN, Emcure Pharma, and others will be in focus on Wednesday's trade

Stocks To Watch

Stocks to Watch on November 19: Markets ended a volatile weekly expiry session nearly half a percent lower, extending the ongoing consolidation phase. Analysts noted that while sentiment remains cautiously optimistic, the market continues to draw support from strong domestic macro indicators.

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Going ahead, we expect consolidation to persist, which is healthy as long as the Nifty holds above its key short-term supportthe 20-DEMA, currently around 25,700. Participants should continue focusing on stock selection based on relative strength across sectors, preferring largecaps and strong midcaps, while maintaining a measured approach amid the choppiness," said Ajit Mishra, SVP, Research, Religare Broking.

Stocks in Focus

Hindustan Unilever (HUL)

HUL has fixed December 5 as the record date for the demerger of its ice-cream division into a new entity, Kwality Walls (India).

Escorts Kubota

The company has launched its third-generation ride-on rice transplanters, expanding its mechanised paddy equipment portfolio to meet rising demand for efficient planting solutions.

Infosys

Infosys will open its Rs 18,000 crore share buyback window on Thursday, November 20, with the offer closing on Wednesday, November 26.

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS)

TCS has been selected by NHS Supply Chain for a five-year engagement involving application development, support and maintenance for core business systems, as well as cloud infrastructure management.

Azad Engineering

The company has signed a Master Terms Agreement and a Purchase Agreement with Pratt & Whitney Canada Corp for developing and manufacturing aircraft engine components.

Mahanagar Gas (MGL)

MGL announced that gas supply to Mumbais CNG network has resumed after GAIL completed repairs on a damaged pipeline at the RCF Trombay facility.

Goel Construction Company

The company has secured a Rs 173.25 crore order from the Aditya Birla Group for civil construction work at the Pali Cement Works facility in Beawar, Rajasthan.

National Securities Depository Ltd (NSDL)

NSDL received a warning letter from SEBI for non-compliance in cases where directors or committee members submitted disclosures to MIIs over 15 days after trading in securities.

GR Infraconstruction

Western Railways has assigned November 15, 2025, as the appointed date for the companys Rs 262.28 crore EPC gauge conversion project on the 38.9 km KosambaUmarpada section in the Vadodara division.

Groww

Shares of Groww will be in focus in todays trade amid a buying frenzy for the past few days. The shares were up over 80% since the IPO price, mainly due to strong post listing demand.

Choice International

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Through its subsidiary Choice Consultancy Services, the company has fully acquired Ayoleeza Consultants, which, along with partners, is currently handling active orders worth over Rs 200 crore.

Disclaimer: The views and investment tips by experts in this News18.com report are their own and not those of the website or its management. Users are advised to check with certified experts before taking any investment decisions.

About the Author Aparna Deb Aparna Deb is a Subeditor and writes for the business vertical of News18.com. She has a nose for news that matters. She is inquisitive and curious about things. Among other things, financial markets, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 07:48 IST

News business markets Stocks To Watch: HUL, Infosys, TCS, Mahanagar Gas, NSDL, Groww, GR Infra, And Others

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'No Company Is Going To Be Immune If...': Sundar Pichai Cautions Against 'Irrationality' In AI Boom

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 18:08 IST

'I think no company is going to be immune, including us,' says Google CEO Sundar Pichai, when asked whether Google could withstand a potential AI downturn.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai has cautioned against the irrationality" surrounding the ongoing artificial intelligence (AI) boom, warning that no company, including Google, would be immune if the AI bubble were to burst. He described the current moment as an extraordinary" phase for the industry.

Speaking to the BBC at Googles California headquarters, Pichai said, We can look back at the internet right now. There was clearly a lot of excess investment, but none of us would question whether the internet was profound I expect AI to be the same. So, I think its both rational and there are elements of irrationality through a moment like this."

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When asked whether Google could withstand a potential AI downturn, Pichai responded: I think no company is going to be immune, including us."

Alphabets market capitalisation has doubled in the past seven months to $3.5 trillion, driven by a sharp rally fuelled by the AI wave.

AI Bubble Concerns Rising Among Tech Leaders

Several other tech leaders have also voiced concerns about an AI bubble. At OpenAIs DevDay last month, CEO Sam Altman acknowledged that parts of the AI ecosystem are already showing signs of excess. I know its tempting to write the bubble story. In fact, there are many parts of AI that I think are kind of bubbly right now," he said.

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Amazon founder Jeff Bezos echoed a similar sentiment, calling the current phase an industrial bubble" driven by AIs sweeping influence across industries. He noted that such bubbles differ from financial ones, which can destabilise the economy. This is kind of an industrial bubble as opposed to financial bubbles," Bezos said, adding that industrial bubbles can actually spur innovation.

The banking bubble thats just bad, thats like 2008. Those bubbles society wants to avoid. The ones that are industrial are not nearly as bad, they can even be good. Because when the dust settles and you see who are the winners, society benefits from those inventions," he added.

About the Author Mohammad Haris Haris is Deputy News Editor (Business) at news18.com. He writes on various issues related to personal finance, markets, economy and companies. Having over a decade of experience in financial journalis... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:08 IST

News business 'No Company Is Going To Be Immune If...': Sundar Pichai Cautions Against 'Irrationality' In AI Boom

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Property Prices Have Surged 500% In These Religious Cities, NCR Realtors Enter The Market

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Last Updated: November 18, 2025, 20:04 IST

Bolstered by the popularity of Premanand Maharaj and the Banke Bihari Temple Corridor, Varanasi's land prices have gone from Rs 20,000 per 900 sq ft to Rs 1 crore in just 4 years

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Ayodhya land prices increased 50-100% due to Ram Temple construction.

In a striking shift from the traditional focus on metro and tier-1 cities, the real estate landscape is witnessing a new trend as pilgrimage and religious cities are becoming prime destinations for homebuyers and investors. Cities such as Ayodhya, Varanasi, Prayagraj, Vrindavan, and Haridwar are seeing a surge in property demand, with some areas experiencing price jumps of up to 500%.

Experts attribute this boom to a combination of religious tourism, major infrastructure projects, and increased economic activity in these cities. The construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya, the Kashi Corridor in Varanasi, and major festivals like the Maha Kumbh have attracted a growing number of devotees," said a property analyst. He said that the rise in footfall is directly influencing real estate, with demand for second homes, retirement properties, and serviced apartments at an all-time high.

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Vrindavan: Prices Jump 500%

Vrindavan has emerged as one of the most expensive religious real estate markets in the country. The citys growing prominence, bolstered by the popularity of Saint Premanand Maharaj and the Banke Bihari Temple Corridor, has seen land prices escalate from Rs 20,000 per 100 square yards to over Rs 1 crore in just four years in approved residential projects like Rukmini Vihar. Developers such as Omaxe, Basera, and Amaiya are actively launching high-rise residential and commercial projects, including Omaxe Krishna Crest, Omaxe Eternity, and Omaxe Bettgather Courtyard Mall, catering to the surge in demand.

Ayodhya: Land Prices Soar 50-100%

Ayodhya has witnessed a dramatic rise in property rates since the construction of the Ram Temple started. Land surrounding the temple has seen prices climb by 50-100%, prompting developers to plan theme-based townships and modern residential projects. Local developer Ayodhya Home & Soul Developers is reportedly preparing to launch a significant residential project in the city. Improved infrastructure and government-backed initiatives are further enhancing returns, making Ayodhya a hotspot for investors and homebuyers alike.

Prayagraj: From Industrial Hub to Real Estate Attraction

The Naini area in Prayagraj is rapidly transforming, driven by its emergence as both an industrial and educational hub. Developers, including Omaxe, are establishing large residential projects such as Omaxe Sangam City and Omaxe Ananda, shifting the market from traditional low-rise housing to high-rise developments.

Dehradun: Penthouses and Luxury Apartments in Demand

In Dehradun, Sahastradhara Road and Rajpur Road, along with areas near Tapkeshwar Mahadev and Drone Cave Temples, are witnessing growing real estate interest. Projects like Sikka Kimaya Greens and Excentia Tatva are introducing luxury apartments, high-rises, and penthouses, merging modern amenities with serene surroundings. Excentia Tatva, in particular, is being promoted as the citys first uber-luxury residential experience.

Varanasi: A Rising Hub for Real Estate Investment

Varanasi continues to attract Shiva devotees and investors alike, with both residential and commercial properties seeing heightened interest. Improved connectivity and growing religious tourism are factors driving the citys rising property prices.

Why Religious Cities Are Gaining Momentum

Several factors underpin this new trend:

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Religious tourism is seeing record growth, drawing lakhs of devotees annually.

Enhanced highway, rail, and air connectivity makes these cities more accessible.

Rising demand for retirement homes and second residences is fueling development.

Branded developers from Delhi-NCR and other major cities are entering these markets.

Government support and infrastructure projects are boosting investor confidence.

As spiritual hubs evolve into real estate hotspots, these cities are no longer just centres of faith, they are emerging as strong, high-return investment destinations.

First Published: November 18, 2025, 20:04 IST

News business real-estate Property Prices Have Surged 500% In These Religious Cities, NCR Realtors Enter The Market

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Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll and Chief of Staff Randy George have arrived in Kyiv on an unannounced visit, where they will hold meetings with the Ukrainian military and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Politico reports.

"Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll and Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George became the highest-ranking Pentagon officials under Trump to visit Ukraine when they arrived on an unannounced visit this week as the United States tries to find a way to speed up the end of the war," the publications website said.

It is reported that starting on November 19, they will hold a series of meetings - with Ukrainian military leaders, parliamentarians and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. "The visit comes at a time when Russia has intensified its missile and drone campaign against civilian targets in Ukraine, and Western allies are trying to find new ways to continue supplying weapons to the embattled country," the publication notes.

Army Secretary Driscoll and Chief of Staff George are the highest-ranking Defense Department officials to visit Ukraine under Trump.

The trip is reportedly focused on engaging with Ukrainian leaders on the stalled peace process with Russia, although Moscow has rejected previous U.S. and Ukrainian attempts to halt hostilities. The U.S. and Ukraine are also working on a major deal to share drone technology and autonomous munitions, and the trip is partly intended to support that effort. Ukraine has become a leader in developing  and improving  long- and short-range combat drones that have changed the face of the battlefield and struck targets deep inside Russia, the publication said.

The trip was described by two people familiar with the planning, who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss sensitive national security matters.

"At first blush it would seem an unusual choice to send Driscoll, the Army secretary, to Kyiv on a sensitive peace mission. But the Army vet and Yale law school friend of Vice President JD Vance has emerged as a major figure in the Pentagon and could now be moving into a more prominent role," Politico said.
Kerala Teen Alleges Mother, Her Friend Encouraged Him To Join ISIS, Case Registered

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:22 IST

Kerala Police filed a UAPA case after a teen alleged his mother and her friend encouraged him to join ISIS. The incident surfaced after his return from the UK.

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Reuters image used for representational purpose only

The Kerala Police have registered a case under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) after a 16-year-old boy alleged that he was encouraged to join terror outfit Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS) by his mother and her friend. The complaint was filed after the teens uncle brought him to the police following the disclosure.

It is learnt that the matter came to light after the minor boy was brought back to Kerala from the UK, where he had been living with his family. He claimed that his mothers friend, with his mothers knowledge, showed him videos and persuaded him to join the terror outfit. The boys mother works as a nurse in the UK.

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The mother, however, has denied all allegations, stating that there is an ongoing marital dispute and that her husband is using the child against her. The couple is reportedly separated.

According to media reports, the case was filed at the Venjaramoodu Police Station. Police have confirmed that they are investigating the matter thoroughly and examining all allegations made in the complaint. Further details regarding the case and any action against the accused are awaited as the investigation continues.

Chhattisgarh ATS Detains 2 Boys Over ISIS Links

In a separate incident, the Chhattisgarh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) detained two boys in Raipur for their alleged links with ISIS, Deputy Chief Minister Vijay Sharma said.

After a thorough probe, the ATS detained the duo who were working under the direction of Pakistan-based ISIS modules and were active on social media through fake IDs, said Sharma, who also holds the home portfolio, news agency PTI reported.

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They were themselves influenced by extremist content, and were attempting to influence others on Instagram. They had access to considerable information and were extensively using the internet and social media under the ISIS name," he said on Tuesday.

They were booked under provisions of the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967, he added.

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish... Read More

Location : Kochi [Cochin], India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:22 IST

News cities Kerala Teen Alleges Mother, Her Friend Encouraged Him To Join ISIS, Case Registered

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Why Allahabad HC Acquitted 1996 Western UP Blast Suspect Ilyas With A Heavy Heart

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:08 IST

1996 Modinagar-Ghaziabad Bus Blast killed 18: HC said prosecution miserably failed to prove charges and the purported confession recorded by police was inadmissible in law

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Allahabad High Court (File pic)

Nearly three decades after a powerful explosion ripped through a crowded passenger bus on the Delhi-Muzaffarnagar route, killing 18 people and injuring close to 50, the Allahabad High Court has set aside the conviction of one of the suspect  Mohammad Ilyas  observing that the prosecution miserably failed" to prove the charges and that the purported confession recorded by police was inadmissible in law.

In a significant judgment delivered on November 10, a division bench of Justice Siddharth and Justice Ram Manohar Narayan Mishra allowed Ilyas appeal, acquitting him of all charges under the IPC and the Explosive Substances Act.

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Yet, the judges noted they were doing so with a heavy heart", acknowledging the sheer brutality of the 1996 blast, which, they said, had shocked the conscience of the society" as 18 innocent passengers lost their lives in what the prosecution long portrayed as a terror attack executed by Harkat-ul-Ansar operatives.

A Blast That Shook Western UP

On April 27, 1996, a bus carrying around 53 passengers left Delhi at 3:55 pm. Over a dozen more boarded during the journey. At approximately 5 pm, moments after the vehicle crossed Modinagar police station in Ghaziabad district, a powerful explosion tore through the front portion of the bus, killing ten passengers instantly. Bodies lay scattered, several trapped under mangled metal, while survivors  most grievously injured  clung to life amid smoke and debris.

By the time authorities pieced together the impact, 18 people had died and nearly 48 had sustained injuries of varying degrees. Forensic examination later confirmed that RDX mixed with carbon had been planted under the drivers seat and that the blast was triggered remotelyindicative, according to investigators, of sophisticated planning.

The Prosecution Theory

The Uttar Pradesh Police and investigating agencies soon claimed the attack was orchestrated by Harkat-ul-Ansar, then an active Pakistan-backed militant outfit. The alleged mastermind, Abdul Mateen alias Iqbal  a Pakistani national described as a district commander"  was accused of plotting the attack to cause maximum casualties on a busy intercity route.

The prosecution alleged that Mohammad Ilyas, originally from Muzaffarnagar but living in Ludhiana at the time, had been radicalised during visits to Jammu and Kashmir and had helped Mateen and another accused, Tasleem, in placing the explosive device. Ilyas and Mateen were arrested, and charges under Sections of the IPC and the Explosive Substances Act were framed. Tasleem, however, was acquitted by the trial court in 2013.

In the same 2013 judgment, the trial court convicted Ilyas and Mateen, sentencing both to life imprisonment along with multiple terms of rigorous imprisonment and fines. Notably, the state government never appealed Tasleems acquittal. There is also no record of whether Mateen filed any appeal against his conviction. As a result, when the case reached the Allahabad High Court, Ilyas was the sole appellant.

What the HC said

In its detailed judgment, the high court pinpointed one central flaw that ultimately unravelled the prosecutions case: the reliance on an audio cassette containing the alleged confessional statement of Ilyas  recorded in the presence of police.

The bench declared that the trial court committed a great legal error" by treating the audio confession as admissible evidence. Under Section 25 of the Indian Evidence Act, any confession made to a police officer cannot be proved against the accused. The court underlined that the law creates a clear embargo to prevent possible coercion or misconduct during interrogations.

If this evidence is excluded, there is absolutely no evidence against the appellant in support of the charge," the bench observed bluntly.

The judges also noted that witnesses who were supposed to testify regarding an extrajudicial confession allegedly made by Ilyas and his co-accused had turned hostile, refusing to support the prosecution version during trial. With no corroborative material, the court said the prosecutions narrative collapsed entirely.

No Evidence Left

Stripping away the inadmissible confession and discounting hostile witness testimony left the prosecution with no substantive proof. No forensic or material evidence linking Ilyas to the planting of the explosive was produced. No eyewitness identified him at the spot that day. No recovery was shown that tied him directly to any component of the bomb.

The prosecution has miserably failed to prove the charges that the appellant conspired to plant a bomb The findings of conviction recorded by the trial court and the sentence awarded are liable to be set aside," the bench held.

The courts acknowledgement that the acquittal came with a heavy heart" reflects the scale of the tragedy rather than any legal ambiguity.

Families await justice

For the families of the 18 victims, the memory of that April evening in 1996 remains sharp and searing. Many had long believed the courts had delivered justice when the trial court handed down life sentences in 2013  17 years after the blast. Now, another 12 years later, the high courts decision has reopened old questions and complexities surrounding terror-related investigations of the 1990s.

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For Ilyas, who has spent years behind bars, the verdict marks the end of a prolonged legal battle. For investigators, it is a reminder of lapses in evidence collection and the dangers of relying on confessional material that the law clearly prohibits.

As of now, there is no clarity on the status of Abdul Mateen, the alleged mastermind. Whether he is still serving his sentence or whether any appeal is pending remains unknown.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:59 IST

News lucknow-news Why Allahabad HC Acquitted 1996 Western UP Blast Suspect Ilyas With A Heavy Heart

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Dont Let Any Other Child Suffer: Delhi Boy Dies By Suicide, Blames Teachers For Harassment

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Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

A 16-year-old Delhi student died by suicide at Rajendra Place metro station, leaving a note accusing teachers of mental harassment.

Police said the class 10 student of a private school jumped from the platform of Rajendra Place Metro Station in central Delhi at 2.34 pm.

A 16-year-old Class 10 student of a prominent Delhi school died by suicide on Tuesday afternoon after allegedly suffering from mental harassment by his teachers. The teenager left behind a suicide letter naming teachers he accused of mentally harassing him, according to an FIR registered by the Delhi Police.

The incident occurred at New Delhis Rajendra Place metro station when the boy, who had left home for his drama club, jumped to his death from the platform in front of a metro. The boy was rushed to BLK Hospital, where he was declared dead on arrival. His school bag, recovered from the metro station, contained a handwritten note addressed to his family and authorities.

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In his note, he apologised to his parents and elder brother, requested that his organs be donated, and alleged that prolonged scolding" and insults" by school staff had pushed him to take the extreme step.

Sorry mummy, aapka itni bar dil toda, ab last bar todunga. School ki teachers ab hai hi aise, kya bolu (Sorry mummy, I broke your heart many times and I am doing it for the last time. This is how the teachers in the school are, what do I say?)" the boy stated in the letter.

The victims father has filed a case in which he has accused three teachers and the schools principal of mentally harassing his son so much that he was forced to take his own life.

Speaking to news agency PTI, the boys father said his son had been distressed for months over how he was treated at school. He used to tell me and my wife that teachers scolded him for every small thing and emotionally hurt him. We complained verbally many times, but nothing changed," he said.

He said they avoided taking stronger action as the class 10 exams were approaching. His exams were due in one or two months. Twenty marks come from the school. I did not want to disturb anything," he said, adding that the family had assured the boy that he would be admitted to a different school once the exams were over.

On Tuesday, the boy had stayed back for his drama club session, and according to his father, something that happened there deeply upset him. In his drama class, he slipped and fell. The teacher pushed him and insulted him in front of everyone and said he was overacting," the father said. They scolded him so much that he started crying, but the teacher told him they did not care how much he cried."

This was not the first time his son had felt cornered, he said. His classmates told me that a teacher had been threatening him and saying they would give him a transfer certificate and call us (parents) to the school. It was not just him, but three to four more kids have also been treated the same way," he said. The boy had recently participated in a dance competition and had spoken about wanting to explore theatre and dance more, his father said.

On November 18, the boys parents travelled to Kolhapur for a medical operation of a family member, while he went to school as usual on Tuesday. The FIR stated he left home at 7:15 am. At around 2:45 pm, the father received a call informing him that his son was lying injured beneath the metro station.

The family reached the hospital only to be told that he had died.

Police officials said the note began with the boy identifying himself and giving a number to contact. He apologised repeatedly to his parents and brother and expressed guilt for breaking their hearts". He asked that whatever organs are still working" be donated.

Naming specific teachers and the principal, he wrote that continuous scolding and mental harassment had driven him to suicide.

Give my organs to those in need," he wrote, adding that if any organs were still functioning after the fall, they should be donated. My school is only like that. My last wish is that action be taken against them. I dont want any other kid to go through this," he concluded.

A senior police officer said statements of classmates, teachers, and staff are being recorded. The allegations made in the suicide note and by the parents are being verified.

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Disclaimer: If you or someone you know needs help, call any of these helplines: Aasra (Mumbai) 022-27546669, Sneha (Chennai) 044-24640050, Sumaitri (Delhi) 011-23389090, Cooj (Goa) 0832- 2252525, Jeevan (Jamshedpur) 065-76453841, Pratheeksha (Kochi) 048-42448830, Maithri (Kochi) 0484-2540530, Roshni (Hyderabad) 040-66202000, Lifeline 033-64643267 (Kolkata)

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More

First Published: November 20, 2025, 00:00 IST

News new-delhi-news Dont Let Any Other Child Suffer: Delhi Boy Dies By Suicide, Blames Teachers For Harassment

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Digital Arrest Scam: Ex-Professor, Couple Lose Over Rs 5 Crore After Threat Over 'Terror Links

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 09:21 IST

In Pune district, scammers posing as police duped an ex-professor and an elderly couple, stealing over Rs 5 crore through digital arrest scams. FIRs were filed.

Digital arrests are on the rise in India. (Representative Image)

An elderly couple and a retired professor in Pune district recently fell victim to a digital arrest scam, collectively losing over Rs 5 crore after cybercriminals posing as law enforcement officers coerced them into transferring their life savings.

The retired engineering professor from Pune lost nearly Rs 3.08 crore, while the elderly couple from Pimpri Chinchwad was defrauded of Rs 2.14 crore. Separate FIRs were filed at the respective Cyber Crime police stations, according to a report in The Indian Express.

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In the Pune case, the 64-year-old professor was contacted by someone pretending to be a Cyber Data Protection" officer from Colaba Police Station, falsely accusing her of involvement in terror financing. She was warned not to discuss the matter with anyone and was instructed to join a video call as part of a fabricated digital arrest process.

The scammers, using the names of real Maharashtra Police officers, obtained full details of her finances, showed her images of supposed terror suspects, and pressured her into believing she needed to transfer all her funds into government accounts" for clearance. Over the course of six transactions across a week, she transferred Rs 3.08 crore before realizing she had been duped, the report stated.

In Pimpri Chinchwad, a 74-year-old retired manager and his wife, a former teacher, were told that the wife was involved in a case related to the Popular Front of India (PFI). The fraudsters, initially claiming to be Nashik Police officials, extracted detailed information about the couples investments and savings. Claiming that the funds needed to be verified under RBI norms, they coerced the couple into making eight transactions, totaling Rs 2.14 crore. Only later did the victims approach the police after noticing something suspicious.

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In a separate incident from Kanpur, scammers impersonated officers from the Uttar Pradesh Anti-Terrorism Squad (ATS) to intimidate a woman into transferring Rs 6.66 lakh. The victim, Sunita Gaur, received multiple calls between November 9-11, in which the fraudsters claimed her mobile number was linked to terrorist activities related to the Delhi blast. They warned that she and her entire family would face arrest unless she complied.

Following Sunitas complaint, the police registered a case, with the citys cyber crime unit taking the lead in the investigation. Additional Deputy Commissioner of Police (Crime) IPS Anjali Vishwakarma described the incident as another serious case of digital arrest".

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 09:19 IST

News cities pune Digital Arrest Scam: Ex-Professor, Couple Lose Over Rs 5 Crore After Threat Over 'Terror Links

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IIM Lucknow Invites Applications For PhD Programme For 2026 Session

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:30 IST

IIM Lucknow has started accepting applications for its full-time PhD Programme in Management for the 2026 academic session.

IIM Lucknow has opened applications for its PhD Programme 2026.

The Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Lucknow has opened applications for its Doctoral Programme in Management (PhD) for the 2026 academic year. The full-time programme is designed to train future researchers, academicians, and industry leaders in advanced areas of management. The course typically takes around 4.5 years to complete.

The application window is now open and will close on 16 February 2026. Interested candidates are advised to apply early and review all eligibility criteria. Further information and application details are available on the institutes official website. Applicants may also reach out to the DPM office through email for support.

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Focus On Research & Faculty Mentorship

IIM Lucknows PhD programme is known for its strong facultyscholar alignment. Every student is paired with a faculty mentor who guides them through their research journey, helps refine research questions, and supports publication plans. The programme emphasises academic depth, interdisciplinary learning, and projects that address real-world management challenges.

Students can choose from a wide range of specialisations, including Agri-Business Management, Business Sustainability, Communication, Decision Sciences, Economics, Finance, HR, IT & Systems, Marketing, Operations, and Strategic Management.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants can qualify for admission through several pathways. These include a Masters degree with minimum required marks, a four-year Engineering degree, professional qualifications like CA/ICWA/CS, or previous postgraduate programmes from IIMs with the prescribed academic performance. All candidates must have scored at least 55% in every public examination from Class 10 onwards.

The admission process includes a review of entrance exam scores and a faculty interaction round. Candidates who have completed certain IIM programmes may be exempted from entrance tests.

ALSO READ: IIM Sirmaur Launches Indias First AI-Integrated MBA Programme For Working Professionals

Financial Support For Scholars

IIM Lucknow provides extensive financial assistance to its doctoral scholars. Benefits include full tuition waivers, semi-furnished on-campus accommodation, monthly stipend, contingency grants, laptop purchase support, travel funding for conferences, and reimbursements for professional memberships and health insurance. This support is intended to help students focus on producing high-quality research.

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Career Opportunities For Graduates

Graduates of the PhD programme take up careers in academia, corporate research roles, consulting, and public policy institutions. Many join leading management schools in India and abroad, while others contribute to industry through data-driven roles in marketing, finance, HR, operations, and strategy.

About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:30 IST

News education-career IIM Lucknow Invites Applications For PhD Programme For 2026 Session

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University of Liverpool Begins Admission For Bengaluru Campus Set To Open In 2026

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:31 IST

Student admission has begun, with programmes available in Computer Science, Business Management, Accounting and Finance, Biomedical Sciences, and Game Design.

University of Liverpool

The University of Liverpool has revealed its new Bengaluru campus location as Alembic City. Student admission for the inaugural 2026 cohort has begun, with programmes available in Computer Science, Business Management, Accounting and Finance, Biomedical Sciences, and Game Design.

The campus will offer a cutting-edge, comprehensive learning environment for the Universitys first batch of students in Bengaluru. It will feature smart classrooms that enhance experiential engagement, case-based teaching, and flipped classroom methods, the university stated in an official press release.

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Additionally, research and innovation spaces, along with collaborative learning hubs, will promote cross-disciplinary learning and industry interaction.

To celebrate this milestone, Lucy Everest, Chief Operating Officer at the University of Liverpool, visited Mumbai and Bengaluru from November 15 to 19. She met with educators, school leaders, and prospective students and delivered a keynote address at a School Leaders Conference in Mumbai.

Lucy Everest expressed her delight over her visit, stating, It has been a pleasure to spend time in Bengaluru and Mumbai this week, meeting educators, alumni, and applicants who are excited about the University of Liverpool arriving in India. We are looking forward to welcoming our inaugural cohort of talented students in 2026 and providing them with an exceptional learning experience that strengthens their skills and employability. Alembic City is the perfect place to realise this vision, and our new campus will provide our students with the very best facilities to support their learning journey with us."

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The University will also establish a significant research presence in India, focusing on fundamental, applied, and industry-led research that addresses shared challenges between the two nations, such as sustainability, innovation, digital transformation, and health sciences, the university added.

The Bengaluru campus will also feature an embedded co-working hub for faculty, entrepreneurs, and student teams, facilitating seamless knowledge exchange between the university and industry, the notice added.

About the Author Education and Careers Desk A team of reporters, writers and editors brings you news, analyses and information on college and school admissions, board and competitive exams, career options, topper interviews, job notifications, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:31 IST

News education-career University of Liverpool Begins Admission For Bengaluru Campus Set To Open In 2026

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Bihar Assembly Polls 2025: The Election That Killed The Fence-Sitter | News18 Data Dive

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:50 IST

Bihar Assembly Polls: In 2025, this space collapsed to a historic low: just 15.5% of the vote

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The NDA vote share surged from 37.3% in 2020 to 46.6% in 2025. (PTI File)

The 2025 Bihar assembly election will go down in history as a political watershed moment.

Not merely for the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliances (NDA) sweeping mandate when everyone thought Nitish Kumar was on his way out, but for the dramatic disappearance of a constituency that had long shaped the states electoral arithmetic  the fence-sitters.

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For two decades, this group has been neither loyal to the NDA nor committed to the Rashtriya Janata Dal-led Mahagathbandhan. But they acted as the swing factor. They oscillated between regional independents, smaller caste outfits, Left parties, and new political experiments. Their share was massive: nearly 49% in February 2005, 36.8% in 2000, and 25.5% even in 2020.

In 2025, this space collapsed to a historic low: just 15.5% of the vote.

THE COLLAPSE OF FENCE-SITTERS

The data tells the story starkly. The NDA vote share surged from 37.3% in 2020 to 46.6% in 2025  a massive 9.3 percentage point jump.

Mahagathbandhans vote share barely moved, rising from 37.2% to 37.9%, a gain of only 0.7 points.

The others" space shrank from 25.5% in 2020 to 15.5% in 2025, a collapse of 10 percentage points.

In essence, nearly the entire pool of floating voters either moved to the NDA or disappeared through consolidation.

This is the clearest signal yet that Bihars once-fluid political landscape has hardened into a bipolar rivalry  one that is no longer mediated by smaller players or ambivalent voters. The fence-sitter once the kingmaker  has died.

WHY DID THE FENCE-SITTERS COLLAPSE IN 2025?

1. Politics of Clarity" Replaced Politics of Ambiguity: Bihars voters have increasingly grown intolerant of fractured mandates. After years of instability  from the 2005 double election to serial alliance switchesvoters sought clarity. The NDAs messaging was sharp: stability under a unified leadership.

The Mahagathbandhan, by contrast, was stuck between generational transition and alliance fatigue, unable to project cohesion.

2. Nitish Kumars Return and the NDAs Narrative Discipline: Kumars return to the NDA created a familiar, predictable structure for voters who were earlier hesitant. His administrative legacy especially on infrastructure, governance modules, and welfare delivery  reassured the cautious voter.

Fence-sitters typically avoid dramatic experiments. Nitishs re-entry offered a safe vote."

3. Welfare Politics Found New Depth: Bihars welfare net  PM Awas, Ujjwala expansion, ration delivery stabilisation, DBT transfers, rural infrastructure  has become deeply entrenched. These schemes have historically benefited smaller caste groups and economically weaker segments who once floated across parties.

In 2025, these voters consolidated decisively with the NDA, seeing clear benefactors rather than fragmented alternatives.

4. Social Coalitions Solidified: Caste dynamics also played a part. The EBC bloc  Bihars largest and most politically flexible groupmoved sharply toward the NDA. This block was previously home to fence-sitters because its political articulation was scattered across smaller parties. With the NDA building dominant EBC leadership, the independent" vote was absorbed.

THE PARADOX: MGBS VOTE SHARE ROSE, YET SEATS COLLAPSED

One of the elections strangest outcomes is that the Mahagathbandhan gained vote share (up to 37.9%) but saw its seats collapse to 14.4%. How?

Because once the floating vote disappeared, the NDAs vote share turned overwhelmingly majoritarian. In constituency after constituency, even small shifts from the others" column wiped out the MGBs competitive edge.

This is the mathematical evidence that the 2025 election wasnt an anti-Mahagathbandhan waveit was a collapse of the third space.

BIHAR FOLLOWS THE NATIONAL TREND

Across India, the space for regional volatility is shrinking.

Uttar Pradesh lost its swing-voter cushion after 2017.

Maharashtra saw similar consolidation post-2019 fragmentation.

West Bengal, post-2021, became sharply bipolar.

Even states with strong regional identities  Odisha, Andhra  have seen sharper consolidation.

Bihar in 2025 fits into this national pattern: the death of the fence-sitter is the rise of decisive mandates.

WHAT THIS MEANS FOR FUTURE?

1. 2025 may mark the end of the multi-cornered Bihar election.

2. Smaller parties will find survival nearly impossible unless aligned with a big bloc.

3. Elections will revolve around two personalities or two contrasting political imaginations not caste arithmetic alone.

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4. The Mahagathbandhans central challenge is no longer just the BJPit is the NDAs ability to absorb the entire floating" spectrum.

Bihar has crossed a psychological threshold  voters have chosen decisiveness over experimentation.

About the Author Anindya Banerjee Anindya Banerjee, Associate Editor brings over fifteen years of journalistic courage to the forefront. With a keen focus on politics and policy, Anindya has garnered a wealth of experience, with deep ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:50 IST

News elections Bihar Assembly Polls 2025: The Election That Killed The Fence-Sitter | News18 Data Dive

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Bihar Cabinet Formation: Suspense Over Who Gets What Ahead Of Thursday Swearing-In

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 11:30 IST

The NDA swept back to power with 202 seats in the 243-member House with BJP bagging 89, JD(U) 85, LJP (RV) 19, HAM-S 5 and RLM 4.

A file photo of Nitish Kumar (Credit: PTI)

With just a day left for the oath-taking ceremony of the new Bihar government, bargaining over the two Deputy Chief Minister posts and the Speakers post has intensified within the National Democratic Alliance (NDA). The swearing-in is scheduled for November 20, but leaders of the JD(U) and the BJP are yet to resolve their differences over key positions, keeping the final power-sharing formula shrouded in suspense.

According to PTI sources, both parties are aggressively pushing for the Speakers chair, a post held by BJPs Nand Kishore Yadav in the outgoing Assembly, while JD(U)s Narendra Narayan Yadav served as Deputy Speaker. Senior JD(U) and BJP leaders have been holding a flurry of meetings in Delhi, with the Speakership and top cabinet portfolios dominating discussions.

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Names doing the rounds for the Speakers post include JD(U) veteran Vijay Choudhary and senior BJP leader Prem Kumar, PTI reported. Alongside the tug-of-war, the broader cabinet structure is also being negotiated. The new ministry is expected to include five to six fresh faces from the two main alliance partners. JD(U)s state unit chief Umesh Singh Kushwaha, who won from Mahnar, is among those likely to be inducted when Nitish Kumar takes oath as chief minister for a record tenth term.

The NDA swept back to power with 202 seats in the 243-member House with BJP bagging 89, JD(U) 85, LJP (RV) 19, HAM-S 5 and RLM 4. While JD(U) is expected to retain most of its existing ministers, the BJP is likely to bring in several new faces, sources mentioned. Smaller allies, Chirag Paswans LJP (RV), Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM-S and Upendra Kushwahas RLM, are also set to find representation.

Sources said the LJP (RV) may receive three cabinet berths, while HAM-S and RLM could get one each. Up to 16 BJP ministers and 14 from JD(U), along with Nitish Kumar, are expected to take oath on November 20.

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JD(U) insiders said the party is seeking a stronger presence in the new cabinet, arguing that its improved tally compared to 2020 warrants additional portfolios. We had only 12 ministers last time. With our numbers up sharply, we expect more representation," a JD(U) source told PTI.

Meanwhile, Patnas historic Gandhi Maidan, the venue for the swearing-in, has been shut to the public until November 20. Heavy security has been deployed as Prime Minister Narendra Modi is expected to attend, along with top NDA leaders including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 11:23 IST

News elections Bihar Cabinet Formation: Suspense Over Who Gets What Ahead Of Thursday Swearing-In

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Bihar Numbers Decoded: 4 In 5 Candidates Failed To Cross 10% Vote Share, Half Secured Under 1%

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News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:38 IST

A total of 2,107 candidates---80 per cent of those in the fray---lost their deposit as they secured less than one-sixth of the total number of valid votes cast

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None from BJP, JDU and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) lost deposit. All candidates from the three parties secured over 20% vote share on every seat they contested. (PTI)

Four of every five candidates in the Bihar assembly elections failed to secure even 10 per cent of the votes in their constituencies, an analysis of Election Commission of India data shows. More than half of the candidates got less than one per cent vote share.

Of the 2,616 candidates in the fray, only 529 got more than 10 per cent of the votes in their constituencies, while 2,087 got votes below the 10 per cent-mark. The analysis also shows that a total of 1,321 candidates secured less than one per cent of the vote sharemore than half of those in the fray.

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Independents formed the largest chunk of contestants925 in totalbut only 18 managed to cross the 10 per cent vote-share mark. Just 10 saved their deposits, reflecting a 98 per cent failure rate. There were at least 602 Independents in the below one per centage group.

Among the national parties, 98 BSP candidates, 53 from AAP and one from the Congress also fell into the below-1 per cent category.

At least 13 members of the newly formed Jan Suraaj Party secured less than one per cent vote share, while 14 from the NCP also joined the group.

NOTA Outperformed Hundreds of Candidates

Interestingly, NOTA secured more than one percentage of votes in at least 214 seats out of 24380 per cent of the seats. The vote share of NOTA slipped below one per cent in just 29 seats.

It is worth mentioning that in any election, the candidate needs to secure one-sixth of the total votes to not lose the deposit. If the vote share is below one-sixth of the total number of valid votes cast in the constituency, the security deposit is lost.

A total of 2,107 candidates80 per cent of those in the fraylost their deposit as they secured less than one-sixth of the total number of valid votes cast in the respective constituency.

Deposit Lost

All 83 candidates of the Aam Aadmi Party have lost their deposit. Of 83, just 30 candidates secured more than 1 per cent vote. The partys best performance came from Kusheshwar Asthan, where Yogi Chaupal secured 2.11 per cent of the total vote share with 3,464 votes in hand. The lowest vote share was secured by Muzaffarpur candidate MD Hasan who secured just 434 votes, making up for 0.23 per cent vote share. In total, the AAP secured 1.50 lakh votes.

With a voter turnout at 67 per cent, about five crore votes were polled in Bihar.

Prashant Kishors Jan Suraaj Party got 16.77 lakh votes across the state. It lost its deposit on 236 of 238 seats it contested and on 230 of these seats its vote share was below 10 per cent.

With one seat and over 8.13 lakh votes across the state, the BSP lost its deposit on 176 seats. In 174 of the 181 seats it contested, the party secured less than 10 per cent vote while in 98 per cent, it was less than one per cent.

Only one candidate from the RJDs list of 143 lost the deposit. The partys Jokihat candidate Shahnawaz secured just 14 per cent vote share in the election. Of the 60 candidates from Congress, five lost deposits and all of these secured less than 10 per cent of the vote share.

With five seats in hand, the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) lost deposit on 21 of 28 seats it contested while 19 of its candidates secured less than 10 per cent votes.

None from BJP, JDU and Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) lost deposits. All candidates from the three parties secured over 20 per cent vote share on every seat they contested.

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The massive deposit losses and the overwhelming presence of sub-1 per cent candidates show how Bihars democracy invites everyone to contestbut only a few truly compete.

The results underline a larger trend: parties may widen their candidate rosters, and new entrants may crowd the field, but voter preference remains sharply concentrated. Bihars electorate continues to separate the serious from the symbolic.

About the Author Nivedita Singh Nivedita Singh is a data journalist and covers the Election Commission, Indian Railways and Ministry of Road Transport and Highways. She has nearly seven years of experience in the news media. She twe... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:38 IST

News elections Bihar Numbers Decoded: 4 In 5 Candidates Failed To Cross 10% Vote Share, Half Secured Under 1%

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'Dhaka-Style': Mahua Moitra's Post On Bangladesh Poll Official Sparks Outrage, BJP Calls It 'Open Threat'

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News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 23:32 IST

TMC MP Mahua Moitra's post drew immediate condemnation from the BJP, which interpreted it as a veiled threat against the Election Commission of India

TMC MP Mahua Moitra shared the post on her social media, featuring an old photograph of a former Bangladesh election commissioner being detained by security personnel. (Image: PTI/File)

A political row erupted over the Trinamool Congress Mahua Moitras post about the arrest of a poll official in Bangladesh, which she captioned as things to come".

Moitras post drew immediate condemnation from the BJP, which interpreted it as a veiled threat against the Election Commission of India (ECI).

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Moitra shared the post on her social media, featuring an old photograph of a former Bangladesh election commissioner being detained by security personnel. Her post was slammed by the BJP for specifically hinting at a potential Dhaka-style" arrest of the chief election commissioner (CEC).

Things to come .. pic.twitter.com/dCvmkoqJpU Mahua Moitra (@MahuaMoitra) November 19, 2025

This comes from the oppositions sustained political attack against the ongoing pan-India special intensive revision of electoral rolls as well as Congress leader Rahul Gandhis vote theft" allegations. It has also alleged that the Election Commission (EC) is actively colluding with the ruling BJP to rig upcoming elections".

The image featured the Bangladesh poll officials arrest in an election-manipulation case following anti-government protests and the fall of the Sheikh Hasina-led Awami League government.

Senior TMC leaders defended Moitra, arguing that her post successfully highlighted the perceived erosion of institutional neutrality" under the BJP-led government, as well as the growing public concern over electoral transparency".

WHAT DID THE BJP SAY?

The BJP has claimed that Mahua Moitra issued an open threat to a constitutional authority".

The saffron party accused Moitra of attempting to import Bangladesh-style chaos into Indian politics" and demanded immediate action. It demanded that the EC take cognisance of the post, which they termed provocative and demeaning". It characterised the post as an incitement to undermine public trust in the democratic process" and accused the TMC of fear-mongering" ahead of the 2026 assembly elections.

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Senior BJP leader Suvendu Adhikari, however, highlighted the irony that a person who had lost her MP parliamentary membership after being accused of corruption is now pointing fingers at others". Moitra had been expelled from the Lok Sabha in December 2023 in the cash-for-query case, though she subsequently won her Krishnanagar seat back the following year during the Lok Sabha elections.

Despite the controversy and demands for intervention from the BJP, the EC did not immediately react to the statements.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 23:32 IST

News elections 'Dhaka-Style': Mahua Moitra's Post On Bangladesh Poll Official Sparks Outrage, BJP Calls It 'Open Threat'

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The death toll in Ternopil from a Russian attack that destroyed two 9-story residential buildings has risen to 10, with 37 injured, the National Police of Ukraine reported.

"The worst is in Ternopil. Critical: two 9-story residential buildings were damaged. One had a fire, the other had damage from the 3rd to the 9th floor. As of 10:00: 10 dead; 37 injured (12 of whom were children).
This BJP Leader First Paved The Way For Nitish Kumar To Become CM 20 Years Ago

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:54 IST

As Nitish Kumar prepares to take the oath yet again, the events of 2005 serve as a reminder that Bihar's defining moment emerged through quiet negotiations

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It was during a rally in Muzaffarpur that the BJP veteran abruptly announced Nitish Kumar as the NDA's Chief Ministerial candidate. (PTI)

Bihars political theatre has long been known for its abrupt turns, yet certain episodes leave a deeper imprint than others. As Nitish Kumar readies himself to assume the Chief Ministers office for a historic tenth term, political observers are revisiting a crucial chapter from 2005, an episode that not only reshaped his career but also altered the trajectory of the states politics.

Two decades ago, Nitishs leadership within his own party was far from universally accepted. The 2005 Bihar Assembly elections, held in February that year, had delivered a fractured mandate, plunging the state into instability. With no clear majority in sight, Bihar was pushed toward a fresh election in October. The NDA sensed that its prospects depended on projecting a single, credible leader. Nitish Kumar emerged as the BJPs preferred face, but the choice sparked resistance within the then Samata Party (later JD-U).

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Senior journalist Ashok Kumar Sharma recalls that the leadership question had reached a deadlock. It was during a rally in Muzaffarpur that BJP veteran LK Advani abruptly announced Nitish Kumar as the NDAs Chief Ministerial candidate.

While the BJP quickly rallied behind the declaration, the reaction within JD(U) was stormy. George Fernandes, one of the most senior figures in the party, openly expressed displeasure that such a crucial decision was taken without his consultation. Banka MP Digvijay Singh, too, was unconvinced about backing Nitish for the top post.

The announcement, though bold, was not enough. Implementing it required meticulous political management. Recognising the urgency, Advani tasked Arun Jaitley, then the BJPs election in-charge, with resolving the standoff. Jaitley, who believed that Nitish was best placed to counter Lalu Prasads formidable influence after three successive victories, took charge of consolidating the alliances internal consensus. BJP strategist Pramod Mahajan joined him in the effort.

Their plan unfolded in Delhi, where they first met George Fernandes. By all accounts, the discussion was difficult. George was a seasoned political figure who rarely softened his stand once he had taken a position. But Jaitley persisted, emphasising that the NDA needed a leader acceptable across Bihars social groups if it hoped to challenge the Lalu-Rabri regime. Gradually, Fernandes relented. The team then reached out to Digvijay Singh, who also came on board after sustained persuasion.

With dissent ironed out and Nitish formally endorsed, the NDA entered the October 2005 polls with a unified face. The impact was immediate. The alliance secured a clear majority, bringing to an end 15 years of Lalu-Rabri rule. Nitish Kumar became Chief Minister for the first time, marking the beginning of a political chapter that continues to influence Bihars governance and electoral dynamics.

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For Nitish, Arun Jaitleys intervention was the turning point that cleared his path to leadership. Their association remained marked by mutual respect. When Jaitley passed away in 2019, Nitish declared two days of state mourning, called off official engagements, and travelled to Delhi to pay homage, underlining a bond rooted as much in political history as in personal regard.

As Nitish prepares to take the oath yet again, the events of 2005 serve as a reminder that Bihars defining moment emerged not during a public rally or dramatic confrontation, but through quiet negotiations steered by Jaitleys political acumen.

Location : Bihar, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:54 IST

News elections This BJP Leader First Paved The Way For Nitish Kumar To Become CM 20 Years Ago

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How The Khashoggi Murder Recast Global Diplomacy & Why His Fiancee Is Still Seeking Justice | Explained

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:12 IST

With Saudi Arabias relations with the US and Turkey largely repaired, the Khashoggi chapter seems to have ended---except in the life of his fiancee

Khashoggi was murdered inside the consulate, dismembered, and his body removed. (AFP)

In October 2018, when journalist Jamal Khashoggi walked into the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, few could have imagined that his disappearance would ignite a geopolitical stormone that would stretch from Ankara to Washington. What followed not only tested the moral boundaries of realpolitik and reshaped alliances but also forced governments to face uncomfortable questions about power and accountability.

On Tuesday, however, US President Donald Trump seemed to settle the diplomatic dust on ties with Saudi Arabia, rebuking a reporter who questioned Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman about Khashoggis killing and urging the press not to embarrass our guest" during the high-profile Washington visit.

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While Trump insisted that the Crown Prince knew nothing about that", Prince Mohammed described the killing as a mistake", saying Khashoggi lost his life for no real reason" and calling the incident painful".

With Saudi Arabias relations with the US and Turkey largely repaired, the Khashoggi chapter seems to have endedexcept in the life of his fiancee, who fears the world has moved on without delivering justice.

News18 looks back at the political murder that reshaped global diplomacy, became a symbol of state impunity, and prompted rare international censure.

Who Was Khashoggi & What Happened To Him?

A well-connected journalist, Khashoggi covered defining events such as the Soviet war in Afghanistan and the rise of Osama bin Laden, and even served as advisor to the kingdoms leadership. However, according to BBC, by 2017, the veteran reporter had fallen out with the very establishment he once served. Choosing self-exile in the United States, he began writing candidly for The Washington Post, using his monthly column to criticise Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans tightening grip on power. In his debut piece, Khashoggi admitted he had left Saudi Arabia out of fear of arrest amid an escalating crackdown on dissent.

On October 2, 2018, Khashoggi entered the Saudi consulate in Istanbul to pick up paperwork for a Saudi document stating that he was divorced as he intended to marry his Turkish fiancee, Hatice Cengiz. Hours passed but the veteran journalist never came out.

According to The Guardian, Turkish probe alleged that Khashoggi was murdered inside the consulate, dismembered, and his body removed. Saudi Arabia initially denied knowledge of the murder, calling it a rogue" operation, but later declared the killing was premeditated".

A 2021 US intelligence report declassified under the Biden administration concluded that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) likely approved the operation though the royalty has denied the allegations.

What Did Saudi Arabia Do?

In late September 2018, Saudi Arabias public prosecution reported that 31 people had been questioned in connection with the killing, with 21 of them taken into custody. At the same time, five high-ranking officials were dismissed from their positions, among them Deputy Intelligence Chief Ahmad Asiri and Saud al-Qahtani, a prominent adviser to Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

By January 2019, 11 unnamed suspects were brought before the Riyadh Criminal Court for their alleged roles in the murder of Jamal Khashoggi. Prosecutors requested the death penalty for five of those on trial.

In December of that year, the court sentenced five defendants to death for what it described as their direct involvement in the killing. Three others received a combined 24 years in prison for concealing the crime and breaking the law, while the remaining three were acquitted.

In May 2020, Salah Khashoggi announced on behalf of himself and his siblings that they had chosen to forgive those responsible for their fathers death, saying they were doing so in pursuit of Gods reward." This aligned with the prosecutions stance that the killing had not been premeditated.

Four months later, the Riyadh Criminal Court reduced the death sentences for five defendants to 20-year prison terms. The other three received sentences ranging from seven to 10 years. Prosecutors stated that these rulings were final, marking the end of the criminal proceedings.

How Did US-Saudi Relations Get Affected?

After Khashoggis murder, Saudi Arabia faced intense international condemnation. Turkey pressed Riyadh for accountability, and US intelligence raised serious red flags.

The Guardian reported that Turkeys President Recep Tayyip Erdogan publicly accused Saudi Arabias top leadership, demanding transparency and extradition for the suspects.

However, over time, strategic interests took centre stage. According to an analysis by the New Yorker, shifting geopoliticsespecially energy and regional power balanceshelped MBS win back Washington.

By 2025, President Trump publicly embraced MBS in a highly symbolic White House visit. Dismissing the intelligence findings, he said: Things happen  he knew nothing about it." Trump also announced major deals, including a potential sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, underscoring how business and strategic ties had fully revived.

The New Yorker piece, quoting scholars like F Gregory Gause, said the normalisation reflects a classic trade-off: human rights concerns were gradually subordinated to economic and security imperatives.

Turkeys Shift & The Cases Legal Status

Turkey led the global outrage, demanding a full inquiry into Khashoggis murder. Erdogan and his government publicly pushed Saudi Arabia to cooperate, raising questions about who ordered the operation. However, as per Middle East Monitor, Ankaras stance too softened over time.

The Turkish court handling some of the suspects eventually transferred the case to Saudi Arabia in a move that was criticised by many, including Khashoggis fiancee.

The Personal & Emotional Toll

Hatice Cengiz, Khashoggis fiancee, has been a tireless advocate for justice. Calling on the US to take responsibility, she has declined an earlier White House invitation from Trump, believing it was more about public optics than real change.

According to Al Jazeera, Cengiz once described being in a darkness I cannot express" after Khashoggis disappearance.

Though relations between Saudi Arabia and Turkey have normalised, she has warned that no diplomatic relation can legitimise this unfairness and injustice".

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Meanwhile, responding to Trumps white-washing", Khashoggis widow Hanan Elatr Khashoggihis third wifesaid its very painful for me" to see Prince Mohammed visit Washington.

The killing destroyed my life", she said, adding, I hope they look at the American values of human rights and (democracy)" besides any deal and selling weapons. There is something missing," she added, pointing to the lack of real justice".

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:12 IST

News explainers How The Khashoggi Murder Recast Global Diplomacy & Why His Fiancee Is Still Seeking Justice | Explained

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Is Panchayati Divorce Legally Valid? HC Seeks Clarity In Punjab Police Constable's Case

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:49 IST

Punjab and Haryana HC questioned the legal validity of village council divorces under Hindu Marriage Act, spotlighting a dismissed Punjab police constable's second marriage

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The petitioner had joined the Punjab Police in March 1992 and solemnised his first marriage in 1996. (AI-Generated Image)

The Punjab and Haryana High Court has asked the State of Punjab to examine whether a Panchayati (village council) divorce is recognised under the Hindu Marriage Act, 1955, and whether the dismissal of a Punjab Police constable for contracting a second marriage while his first was subsisting was justified.

The direction by Justice Jagmohan Bansal came in a case where the petitioner, a former constable, claimed that his first marriage had ended through a Panchayati settlement, after which he remarried. Despite his acquittal in a subsequent criminal case, he was dismissed under the Punjab Police Rules and the Government Employees (Conduct) Rules, 1966.

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According to The Tribune, Justice Bansals Bench was informed that the petitioner had joined the Punjab Police in March 1992 and solemnised his first marriage in 1996. The parties separated due to matrimonial discord, but no court decree was obtained. The petitioner contended that the separation occurred via a Panchayati divorce and that permanent alimony of Rs 1 lakh was paid to his first wife. He solemnised his second marriage in June 2000. On account of discord, she moved a complaint before SSP, Amritsar, alleging that the petitioner cheated her. He solemnised the second marriage while the first was subsisting," the bench was told.

An FIR was registered, and the petitioner faced allegations including rape, but the trial court acquitted him and his family, with the complainant-wife ultimately compromising the matter. Nevertheless, the competent authority dismissed him from service, citing the act as gravest misconduct.

The petitioner is claiming that there was Panchayati divorce between the parties, though there was no decree of divorce passed by the court of competent jurisdiction. Thus, the respondents act did not amount to gravest misconduct warranting dismissal," his counsel asserted to the high court. He added that Panchayati divorce was recognised by the Hindu Marriage Act, but the respondent-authority did not consider question of validity of Panchayati divorce and ordered to dismiss him from service."

The State counsel countered that while the petitioner had produced the Panchayati divorce, no evidence was presented showing that such divorces were recognised in his community, leaving authorities without opportunity to consider the issue.

It is a case of dismissal from service. The petitioner solemnised second marriage under the bona fide belief that his first marriage stands dissolved. The authorities have not considered whether Panchayati divorce was recognised in terms of Section 29(2) of 1955 Act as well as judgments of Supreme Court. Thus, this court finds it appropriate to remand the matter back to Disciplinary Authority to reconsider case of the petitioner," Justice Bansal asserted.

The Bench directed the petitioner to produce evidence that Panchayati divorce was recognised in his community and valid under Section 29(2) of the Act. Let the needful be done within six months. It is made clear that the petitioner shall not be deemed to be reinstated on account of instant order. The order passed by Disciplinary Authority would determine the fate of the petitioner. It is further made clear that any observation made heretofore shall not be treated as expression of opinion of this court on merit and Disciplinary Authority would decide the matter on merit without being influenced by observations of this Court," Justice Bansal added.

Legal experts note that under the Hindu Marriage Act, no village or Panchayati council has the authority to grant a legally binding divorce. Only civil or family courts can dissolve a marriage. Supreme Court rulings, including Shivani Kabra (2010) and Sanjana Kumari vs Vijay Kumar (2023), have clarified that customary divorces are valid only if they meet the criteria of Section 29(2), i.e. the custom must be ancient, continuous, definite, and not contrary to public policy.

Advocates caution that parties relying solely on Panchayati decrees risk annulment of subsequent marriages and legal complications. Advocate Avneesh Kumar, practicing at the Patna High Court, said that even if a village council pronounces a divorce, parties must seek legal termination through a civil court under personal law or the Special Marriage Act. Village council decisions alone have no legal effect, he added.

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Earlier High Court rulings in 2021 and 2023 have similarly clarified that village council agreements or divorce papers do not constitute legal divorces. In Gurpreet Kaur vs State of Haryana, it was held that remarrying on the basis of a village council decree amounted to an offence under Section 494 of the Indian Penal Code (now, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita), which criminalises second marriages during the subsistence of a first marriage.

The Gram Panchayat Act, 1994, and Panchayati Raj Acts allow village councils only to mediate disputes; they cannot legally dissolve marriages. Advocate Kundu added that exceptions exist for certain scheduled tribes under the Hindu Marriage Act, but the burden of proving tribal affiliation and the validity of customary divorce rests on the parties in court.

Location : Chandigarh, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 16:49 IST

News explainers Is Panchayati Divorce Legally Valid? HC Seeks Clarity In Punjab Police Constable's Case

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Andhra Pradesh: 7 More Maoists Gunned Down In Encounter, Key Leader Shankar Identified

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 11:30 IST

Meturi Jokha Rao, alias known as Shankar, has been identified as one of the deceased.

In Andhra Pradesh, seven more Maoists were gunned down in another exchange of fire. (Representative image)

In another exchange of fire that took place in Andhra Pradesh early this morning, seven Maoists were killed in the encounter in a forest area. Security forces have strengthened surveillance in the area and are closely monitoring their movements.

In continuation with Tuesdays operation, seven Maoists have died until now, according to information received from the field," AP Intelligence ADG Mahesh Chandra Laddha said in a press conference.

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Meturi Joga Rao, alias Shankar, has been identified as one of the deceased. The other deceased include: Jyothi, alias Saritha, she had earlier worked as guard commander to Nambala Kesava Rao; Suresh, alias Ramesh; Lokesh, alias Ganesh, who worked as Jagargonda area Militia Commander; Sainu, alias Vasu; Anitha; and Shammi.

An operation was launched on Monday (November 17), and the next day, Madvi Hidma, Central Committee member and top Maoist leader, along with five others, was killed in an encounter. ADG Ladda also said that 50 people were arrested in NTR, Krishna, Eluru, Kakinada and Konaseema districts in recent operations.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

Location : Andhra Pradesh, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:55 IST

News india Andhra Pradesh: 7 More Maoists Gunned Down In Encounter, Key Leader Shankar Identified

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Taliban Commerce Minister Azizi Lands In India: Exclusive On What The 5-Day Visit Means

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:06 IST

According to top intelligence sources, Taliban's Nooruddin Azizi is likely to urge the Indian Government for full scale cooperation to establish an air brigade for trade

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Talibans Commerce and Industry Minister Nooruddin Azizi being welcomed on his arrival in India. (News18)

Afghan Talibans Commerce and Industry Minister Nooruddin Azizi has landed in India, marking the beginning of his five-day visit. Azizi will meet his Indian Counterpart, other officials and business community.

According to top intelligence sources, the Minister is likely to urge the Indian Government for full scale cooperation to establish an air brigade for trade.

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After closure of transit trade with Pakistan, the Afghan Taliban regime is turning towards Iran and India. Kabul Wants Maximum Usage Of Chahabahar Port In Iran and Trade Air-Bridge Between Kabul and New Delhi," said sources.

Kabul is aiming to increase trade volume with India from the current around $900 million to around $2-$3 billion USD.

Pleased to meet FM Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi of Afghanistan today in New Delhi. This visit marks an important step in advancing our ties and affirming the enduring India-Afghanistan friendship. Discussed Indias support for Afghanistans development, our bilateral trade, pic.twitter.com/OLBOiv3gZZ  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) October 10, 2025

This is second highest visit of an Afghan Taliban Minister which comes a couple of weeks after Afghan Taliban Foreign Minister Amir Khan Muttaqi.

Muttaqis visit

India hosted Muttaqi for an eight-day visit from October 9 to 16. The Afghan foreign ministers visit to India assumed greater significance as it came at a time when both India and Afghanistan are having frosty relations with Pakistan over a range of issues, including cross-border terrorism.

During his visit, Indian Foreign Minister S Jaishankar announced an upgrade of its technical mission in the Afghan capital Kabul to an embassy. Jaishankar informed Muttaqi that the bond between the two nations is historical and the country has always helped the Afghan people whenever they face any trouble, including natural calamities.

Called FM Mawlawi Amir Khan Muttaqi of Afghanistan this afternoon to convey condolences at the loss of lives in the earthquake that struck Balkh, Samangan and Baghlan provinces. Indian relief material for the earthquake impacted communities is being handed over today. Further  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 3, 2025

During his visit, members of Afghan Sikhs and Hindus met Muttaqi at the embassy of Afghanistan in New Delhi. Muttaqi also visited Deoband in Uttar Pradeshs Saharanpur district on Saturday. He met senior clerics, scholars and administrators of Darul Uloom Deoband, one of the most influential Islamic seminaries in South Asia.

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Jaishankar spoke with Muttaqi following a strong earthquake that struck northern Afghanistan on November 3.

The Taliban governments spokesperson, Zabihullah Mujahid, has said that Afghanistans relations with India are based on independence and mutual respect, and are not influenced by Pakistan or any other country. The Taliban spokespersons remarks come amid the ongoing border clash between Afghanistan and Pakistan.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:22 IST

News india Taliban Commerce Minister Azizi Lands In India: Exclusive On What The 5-Day Visit Means

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Ajit Pawars Son Parth Not Named In Probe Report On 300-Crore Pune Land Deal

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:23 IST

The other two individuals named in the report are Digvijay PatilParth Pawars cousin and business partnerand Sheetal Tejwani, who held the power of attorney for the landowners.

The committee, led by Joint IGR Rajendra Muthe, submitted its findings to IGR.

A committee headed by the Joint Inspector General of Registration (IGR) has indicted three individuals in connection with a controversial 300-crore land deal involving a Pune-based firm co-owned by Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawars son, Parth Pawar, an official said on Tuesday. The three-member panels report, however, does not name Parth Pawar, noting that his name does not appear on any of the transaction documents.

The committee, led by Joint IGR Rajendra Muthe, submitted its findings to IGR Ravindra Binwade, who then forwarded the report to Pune Divisional Commissioner Chandrakant Pulkundwar. The deal in question relates to the sale of 40 acres of land in Punes high-value Mundhwa area to Amadea Enterprises LLP, in which Parth Pawar is a partner.

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The transaction came under scrutiny after it emerged that the land belonged to the government and was not eligible for sale, and that the firm had been exempted from paying 21 crore in stamp duty.

Since Parth Pawars name does not appear anywhere in the sale deed, he cannot be indicted in this probe. The report, however, holds accountable all those directly involved in the transaction, including suspended sub-registrar Ravindra Taru," the official said.

The other two individuals named in the report are Digvijay Patil  Parth Pawars cousin and business partner  and Sheetal Tejwani, who held the power of attorney for the landowners. Taru, Patil and Tejwani are already named as accused in the police FIR.

Separate inquiry committees under the revenue department and the settlement commissioner are preparing their own reports. All three reports will be submitted to Additional Chief Secretary (Revenue) Vikas Kharge, who heads a six-member panel formed by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis to examine the now-scrapped land deal.

The Muthe committee has also suggested several corrective measures to prevent similar irregularities in the future. It recommended that any request for a stamp duty waiver must be vetted and approved by the collector (stamp). The report highlighted that, under Section 18-K of the Registration Act, 1908, registration can only proceed if a 7/12 extract not older than one month and all relevant ownership documents are furnished.

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The panel also cited an April 20, 2025 notification amending the Registration Act, which bars sub-registrars from registering any sale or purchase of government-owned land. However, it noted that this restriction currently applies only in cases where government ownership is firmly established. The committee recommended extending this bar to cases where the government title, possession, or interest is unclear.

Meanwhile, the IGR office has given Amadea Enterprises seven days to respond to a notice demanding 42 crore in stamp duty following the cancellation of the Mundhwa land deal. The firm requested 15 days, but we have granted them seven days to reply," an IGR official said.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:21 IST

News india Ajit Pawars Son Parth Not Named In Probe Report On 300-Crore Pune Land Deal

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Anand Mahindra Praises Chandrababu Naidu, Calls Him 'An Unstoppable Force Of Nature'

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 14:08 IST

Anand Mahindras latest praise adds to a long history of admiration between the two, with both leaders often publicly acknowledging each others developmental efforts.

Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu | File Image/PTI

Industrialist Anand Mahindra heaped praise on Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, calling him an unstoppable force of nature" and lauding his commitment to development and innovation.

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Mahindra Group chairman wrote, This man is an unstoppable force of nature. What Ive admired about him for decades is not just his obsession for development but his desire to always be innovative in his policies. He raises the bar for himself and for everyone around him."

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This man is an unstoppable force of nature.What Ive admired about him for decades is not just his obsession for development but his desire to always be innovative in his policies. He raises the bar for himself and for everyone around him.  pic.twitter.com/4RFUWGfwiv  anand mahindra (@anandmahindra) November 19, 2025

Anand Mahindras latest praise adds to a long history of admiration between the two, with both leaders often publicly acknowledging each others developmental efforts. The industrialist had earlier lauded Chandrababu Naidu in May this year for his role in promoting Araku Coffee, a homegrown brand from the tribal belt of Andhra Pradesh that has gained international recognition.

Responding to Chandrababu Naidus support, Anand Mahindra had then written on X, Your ideas are spot on Every Araku cafe has a map of the coffee-growing region depicted Paris cafes have an electronic screen looping films/images of Araku tribal life. The coffee packaging is inspired by the colourful attire of the tribals and the varied colours of India."

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Chandrababu Naidu, in turn, responded with equal warmth, highlighting the brands global journey.

One cup at a time! From the lush Araku Valley to the heart of Paris, its inspiring to see this truly Made-in-AP product earning the global recognition it deserves," he tweeted, suggesting that the brand continue to incorporate design elements celebrating its tribal roots.

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:08 IST

News india Anand Mahindra Praises Chandrababu Naidu, Calls Him 'An Unstoppable Force Of Nature'

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Bharat And Hindu Are Synonymous: Mohan Bhagwat Says Followers Of Indian Culture Are Hindus

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:28 IST

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat said that anyone who takes pride in Bharat qualifies as a Hindu.

RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has once again reiterated that every person living in India regardless of gender or religious affiliation, is, in essence, a Hindu.

Speaking in Guwahati on Tuesday, Bhagwat asserted that the term Hindu is not a narrow religious label but a broader civilisational identity shaped by thousands of years of cultural continuity.

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If Muslims and Christians, even without giving up their worship, customs and traditions, worship this country, follow Indian culture, and take pride in Indian ancestors, then they are Hindus," Bhagwat said, emphasising that cultural loyalty, rather than religious practice, forms the basis of the identity.

Bharat and Hindu are synonymous

During his interaction with eminent personalities in the city, Bhagwat argued that anyone who takes pride in Bharat" qualifies as a Hindu. He added that India does not need an official proclamation to be recognised as a Hindu Rashtra, as the nations civilisational ethos already reflects that spirit.

Bharat and Hindu are synonymous. India does not need an official declaration to be a Hindu rashtra. Its civilisational ethos already reflects it," he said, describing Hindu identity as an inclusive umbrella that accommodates a range of traditions and cultural practices.

RSSs role and vision

Bhagwat stated that the RSS was not founded to undermine or harm any community, but to foster character-building and contribute to Indias emergence as a global leader. The methodology to unite Bharat amidst diversity is called the RSS," he remarked.

He highlighted the organisations emphasis on national cohesion, moral development, and preservation of cultural values. Stressing the need for responsible conduct in public discourse, Bhagwat urged young people to use social media judiciously and remain alert to misinformation and polarisation.

Addressing concerns about demographic changes" in Assam, Bhagwat called for vigilance and a strong sense of identity among the people. He spoke about illegal infiltration, advocating a balanced population policy that includes a three-child norm for Hindus. He further highlighted the importance of checking religious conversions that, in his view, contribute to social fragmentation.

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Bhagwat also warned against divisive forces that exploit demographic anxieties and urged citizens to stay united while protecting their cultural and territorial integrity.

Praising the Northeast as a vibrant example of Indias unity in diversity, Bhagwat said the regions cultural and historical icons such as Lachit Borphukan and Srimanta Shankardeva hold national significance.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Guwahati [Gauhati], India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:28 IST

News india Bharat And Hindu Are Synonymous: Mohan Bhagwat Says Followers Of Indian Culture Are Hindus

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'Winds Of Bihar Have Arrived In Tamil Nadu': PM Modi's Big Message In Coimbatore

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:29 IST

While addressing a gathering of farmers and textile workers, he said that he was greeted by farmers who were waving their gamchas, which reminded him of celebrations in Bihar.

PM Modi addressing a gathering in Tamil Nadu's Coimbatore. (ANI)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday said the sight of farmers waving their gamcha (towel) made him feel as though Bihar winds had arrived in Tamil Nadu before me."

Fresh from his NDAs stunning victory in Bihar, Modi quipped, citing the audience waving their gamcha (towel) upon his arrival, that it looked like Bihar winds" had arrived in Tamil Nadu before him.

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While addressing a gathering of farmers and textile workers, he said, When I came on the stage here, I saw several farmers waving their gamchha in the air. I felt as if Bihars breeze reached here even before I could."

#WATCH | Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu: Prime Minister Narendra Modi says, When I came on the stage here, I saw several farmers waving their gamchha in the air. I felt as if Bihars breeze reached here even before I could."(Video: ANI/DD News) pic.twitter.com/H3Yi2yN3Ei  ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

The Prime Ministers remark assumes significance as Tamil Nadu will go to assembly polls next year. The BJP, which is in alliance with the AIADMK, is trying to make inroads in the southern state. The BJP failed to win a single Lok Sabha seat in Tamil Nadu in 2024.

He said that had he known Tamil, he would have had the honour of fully understanding the earlier speeches at the summit.

Highlighting the regions economic strength, PM Modi said Coimbatores textile sector had long been a major contributor to the countrys economy. He added that with CP Radhakrishnan, who hails from the region, now serving as Vice President of India, Coimbatores contribution to the nation was only increasing."

While inaugurating the South India Natural Farming Summit 2025, he released the 21st instalment of PM-KISAN, amounting to more than Rs 18,000 crore to support nine crore farmers across the country.

Addressing the conference, he said that excessive use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides led to decrease in soil fertility and fully backed organic farming. Calling natural farming a subject very close to my heart," the Prime Minister asserted that India was on the path to becoming a global hub for organic and natural agriculture. At the summit, he felicitated individuals promoting organic, natural and sustainable farming practices.

I was watching the exhibition. I received the opportunity to speak to several farmers," he said. Someone had pursued Mechanical Engineering, a PhD and was then doing farming; someone left NASA to return to agriculture. They are preparing and training several youth. I accept this publiclyhad I not come here, I would have missed a lot in my life."

PM Modi added that the visit had been a learning experience, noting, I salute the courage of farmers of Tamil Nadu, I salute their strength to accept change."

He further highlighted Indias accelerating shift towards natural farming, saying it is emerging as a modern, scalable opportunity" for the nations youth. In the coming years, I can see major changes in Indian farming. India is on its way to becoming a global hub of natural farming," he said. This will boost the rural economy."

He also emphasised that natural farming is a Swadeshi, native and traditional idea, with practices like Panchakavya and Jeevamrutam now being widely adopted by South Indian farmers.

Earlier, he held a roadshow in the city, with people giving him a rousing reception.

PM Modi held the roadshow from the city airport to CODISSIA (Coimbatore District Small Industries Association) grounds, a distance of approximately 2 kilometres and people and party workers lined up on both sides of the road to welcome him.

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Cultural shows were held, and people showered flowers on his vehicle as he waved to the people acknowledging their greetings.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More

Location : Coimbatore, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:54 IST

News india 'Winds Of Bihar Have Arrived In Tamil Nadu': PM Modi's Big Message In Coimbatore

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Can Civilised Society Allow This: SC Mulls Striking Down Talaq-e-Hasan, Flags Gender Bias

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:24 IST

The Supreme Court signalled a possible review of Talaq-e-Hasan, questioning whether the practice aligns with womens dignity and constitutional equality.

File photo of Supreme Court. (Image: PTI)

The Supreme Court on Monday said that it may consider striking down Talaq-e-Hasan, a form of divorce under which a Muslim man can end a marriage by saying talaq" once a month over three months. The Bench of Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan and N Kotiswar Singh also suggested that the issue may be referred to a Constitution Bench of five judges. The Court asked all parties to submit brief notes outlining the broad legal questions requiring adjudication.

The judges observed that because the practice affects society at large, judicial intervention may be necessary. Justice Kant, as quoted by Bar and Bench, remarked that a civilised society cannot allow practices that undermine the dignity of women. Whatever best religious practice we follow, is this what you allow? Is this how the dignity of a woman is upheld?" he asked.

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PIL filed

The case stems from a Public Interest Litigation (PIL) filed in 2022 by journalist Benazeer Heena, who has sought a declaration that the practice is unconstitutional as it violates Articles 14, 15, 21 and 25 of the Constitution. Her petition also calls for gender- and religion-neutral procedures for divorce.

Heena alleged that her husband divorced her through a Talaq-e-Hasan notice issued via a lawyer after her family refused to pay dowry, despite her reporting harassment by her in-laws. She said the police informed her that such a divorce was permissible under Sharia law. She also faced challenges proving her marital status, complicating her childs school admissions, even though her husband had remarried.

Court questions husbands actions

Senior Advocate MR Shamshad, appearing for the husband, argued that sending a notice through a representative is common in Islamic practice. However, Justice Kant questioned why the husband could not communicate directly if he intended to follow the religious procedure faithfully. The Bench directed that he must appear before the Court next week and adhere to the prescribed practice.

The Court also asked Heenas counsel to file a detailed application listing the issues and directions sought.

Justice Kant noted that while Heena, a journalist, could approach the Supreme Court, there are countless women from marginalised backgrounds who might be suffering silently. What about those unheard voices living in remote areas?" he remarked.

Heenas plea argues that marriage and inheritance laws evolve with time and that unilateral extra-judicial divorce is inconsistent with human rights and equality. The petition contends that the practice is discriminatory since only men can exercise it and stresses that Article 25s protection of religious freedom is not absolute.

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Judicial observations on Talak

Interestingly, in August 2022, a different Bench had held that Talaq-e-Hasan was not prima facie improper and cautioned against using the litigation to advance any agenda. However, with the current Bench signalling a possible review by a larger Bench, the future of the practice may hinge on the constitutional questions now being framed.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:24 IST

News india Can Civilised Society Allow This: SC Mulls Striking Down Talaq-e-Hasan, Flags Gender Bias

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Akbar Novruz



At the WINS & GABA Women Leadership Event held in Baku, the Founder of Africa Azerbaijan Cooperation (AFAZ), Rena Gafarova, captured significant attention with her inspiring keynote speech, Azernews reports.

The event was initiated and organized by Nazrin Sadiqova, owner of Spectr Medical Group, Founder of GABA Business Club, and Founder of the SABAH Charity Foundation. The gathering brought together women leaders from various sectors with the goal of strengthening womens entrepreneurship and leadership in Azerbaijan.

During her presentation, Rena Gafarova highlighted the life stories of Africas most courageous and transformative women leaders, showcasing their achievements as a powerful source of inspiration and motivation for Azerbaijani women.

She emphasized that the resilience of African women in the face of challenges, their perseverance in entrepreneurship, their unwavering commitment to community development, and their strong leadership spirit stand as a remarkable example for women everywheremirroring the character and determination of Azerbaijani women.

In her remarks, Rena Gafarova stated:

The life stories of African women carry tremendous strength, resilience, and a spirit of change. This energy is very close to the heart of Azerbaijani women as well. Women are the strongest bridge connecting continents.

Gafarova also underlined that one of the strategic priorities of Africa Azerbaijan Cooperation is to strengthen collaboration between African and Azerbaijani women in joint business, social, and development initiatives.

As part of this mission, the 2025 business trips to Ethiopia and Kenya will include:

dedicated meetings with women entrepreneurs,

discussions with leading womens business associations,

and the signing of key Memorandums of Understanding between womens entrepreneur unions of the participating countries.

Event organizer Nazrin Sadiqova highlighted the importance of uniting women both nationally and internationally, noting that such platforms create real opportunities for cooperation, growth, and leadership development.

Participants described Rena Gafarovas presentation and the stories of African women leaders as highly inspirational, empowering, and opening new pathways for future joint projects.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/

The Ukrainian Defense Forces neutralized 524 enemy targets last night, including seven Kalibr cruise missiles, and recorded hits of seven missiles and 34 UAVs, the press service of the Ukrainian Air Force has said.

"On the night of November 19 (from 18:00 on November 18), the enemy launched a combined strike on critical infrastructure facilities of Ukraine using strike UAVs, air- and ground-based missiles. In total, the radio-technical troops of the Air Force detected and escorted 524 air attack vehicles - 48 missiles and 476 UAVs of various types," the message of the Armed Forces of Ukraine on the Telegram channel on Wednesday reads:

"According to preliminary data, as of 10:00, air defense systems shot down/suppressed 483 air targets: 442 enemy Shahed, Gerbera UAVs (drones of other types); 34 Kh-101 cruise missiles; seven Caliber cruise missiles," the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported.

According to the press service, seven missiles and 34 strike UAVs hit at 14 locations and the fall of downed (fragments) at six locations.

The press service provides data on the means by which the Russian Federation attacked Ukraine.

- 476 attack UAVs of the Shahed, Gerbera type (drones of other types) from the directions of Shatalovo, Kursk, Orel, Millerovo, Primorsko-Akhtarsk - Russia, Gvardiyske  temporarily occupied Crimea (about 300 of them - "Shaheeds");

- 40 cruise missiles Kh-101 (launch areas: Vologda, Astrakhan regions - RF);

- 7 cruise missiles Kalibr (from the Black Sea),

- 1 ballistic missile Iskander-M (launch area: Rostov region, Russia).

The Air Force said that the main direction of the Russian attack this time fell on the Lviv region, Ternopil region and Kharkiv region.

The air attack was repelled by aviation, anti-aircraft missile troops, electronic warfare and unmanned systems units, and mobile fire groups of the Defense Forces of Ukraine.

The attack continues, several enemy UAVs are in the airspace. Follow safety rules.
Delhi Bomber Umar Nabi Was In Kashmir Days Before Attack, Had Handed Over Phone To Brother

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:21 IST

Dr Umar-un-Nabi, the Red Fort suicide bomber, was in Kashmir days before the November 10 attack and handed his mobile phone to his brother.

Dr Umar Nabi (L)/ Site of the car blast in Delhi (R) (Video screengrab/PTI photo)

Dr Umar-un-Nabi, the suicide bomber behind the deadly Red Fort attack on November 10, was in Kashmir days before the blast and had entrusted his mobile phone to his brother.

His recovered phone, which was earlier dumped, contains chilling footage in which Umar justifies the attack as a martyrdom operation," shedding light on his radicalisation and premeditation.

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News agency PTI quoted officials as saying that Umars brother, Zahoor Illahi, during a detailed interrogation by a special team led by Senior Superintendent of Police GV Sundeep Chakravarthy in Srinagar, initially denied knowledge of his brothers plans.

However, under sustained questioning, he revealed that Umar had handed him a mobile phone with strict instructions to dispose of it in water if news of him surfaced.

Illahi later guided the police to the spot where the phone was dumped. Though partially damaged, forensic experts were able to extract critical data from the device.

Investigators say the contents indicate Umars deep exposure to violent extremist material, including propaganda videos from ISIS and Al-Qaeda.

The phone also contained personal recordings of Umar speaking about his motives, asserting that suicide attacks were among the most revered acts in his interpretation of the religion.

The nearly two-minute video made the rounds on social media after the investigation began.

Officials said Umar, a 28-year-old doctor from Pulwama, played a central role in the network responsible for the attack, which spanned multiple states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh.

Evidence suggests that Umar was planning a more powerful vehicle-borne improvised explosive device (VBIED) attack around the anniversary of the Babri Masjid demolition on December 6, targeting a densely populated area or a religious site.

The investigation traces the networks origins to October 19, when Jaish-e-Mohammed posters appeared in Srinagars Bunpora area.

Reviewing CCTV footage led to the arrest of three locals with prior involvement in stone-pelting incidents.

Their interrogation then uncovered Maulvi Irfan Ahmad, a former paramedic turned Imam, who allegedly helped radicalise the doctors and supplied the posters.

Officials further revealed that Umars transformation into a radical operative began after a 2021 trip to Turkey with co-accused Dr Muzammil Ahmad Ganaie, where they reportedly met overground JeM operatives.

Following the trip, the duo began amassing large quantities of chemicals, including 360 kilograms of ammonium nitrate, potassium nitrate, and sulphur, much of it stored near Ganaies teaching location at Faridabads Al Falah University.

The plot for a December attack was disrupted when Ganaie was arrested and explosives were seized.

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Investigators believe the seizure may have forced Umar to carry out the Red Fort attack prematurely.

ALSO READ | Founder Of Al Falah University Linked To Delhi Blast Accused Arrested In Money Laundering Case

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:19 IST

News india Delhi Bomber Umar Nabi Was In Kashmir Days Before Attack, Had Handed Over Phone To Brother

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'Democracy Under Assault: Judges, Bureaucrats Slam Rahul Gandhi For Criticising Poll Body

Curated By :

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:15 IST

The signatories say they are senior citizens of civil society who are alarmed by what they see as an escalating assault on democratic institutions through political rhetoric".

Congress leader and LoP Rahul Gandhi addresses a press conference on vote chori (Image: PTI)

A group of 272 prominent citizens, including 16 former judges, 123 retired civil servants with 14 former ambassadors among them, and 133 retired armed forces officers, has issued an open letter criticising what they describe as a coordinated attempt by the Leader of Opposition and the Congress Party to undermine constitutional institutions, particularly the Election Commission of India (ECI).

In the letter, the signatories say they are senior citizens of civil society" who are alarmed by what they see as an escalating assault on democratic institutions through aggressive political rhetoric. They accuse certain political leaders of choosing provocation over constructive policy engagement and of levelling unsubstantiated allegations to create distrust in institutions.

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The letter claims that after targeting the armed forces, the judiciary, Parliament and other constitutional authorities, similar systematic and conspiratorial attacks" are now being directed at the Election Commission. The signatories allege that the Leader of Opposition has repeatedly accused the Commission of serious misconduct, including claims of vote theft," without offering any credible evidence.

The letter also accuses a wider circle of political figures and affiliated groups of amplifying attacks on the Election Commission. According to the signatories, senior Congress leaders, members of other parties, left-leaning NGOs, ideologically driven commentators and attention seekers" have used increasingly aggressive language, even alleging that the Commission has become the B-team of the BJP."

The letter argues that such rhetoric falls apart under scrutiny, noting that the ECI has publicly explained its SIR methodology, followed court-approved verification processes, removed ineligible names and added legitimate voters. These accusations, the signatories say, appear aimed at draping political frustration as an institutional crisis.

This behaviour, the letter states, reflects impotent rage", an anger born of repeated electoral setbacks and a disconnect from public sentiment. Instead of revisiting their strategies or offering policy alternatives, some political leaders choose to attack institutions, turning politics into performance. The letter points out that criticism of the ECI disappears when outcomes favour opposition-led states but resurfaces when results go against them, revealing selective outrage rather than conviction.

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Invoking Indias founding generation, the signatories argue that earlier leaders strengthened democratic institutions even amid serious disagreements. They also recall former Chief Election Commissioners like T. N. Seshan and N. Gopalaswami, whose uncompromising approach transformed the ECI into a powerful constitutional guardian. These figures, the letter notes, did not seek popularity but upheld the rules fearlessly, impartially, relentlessly."

The letter urges civil society to stand firmly with the Election Commission out of conviction, not flattery, and to demand that political actors stop weakening institutions through baseless allegations. It stresses the importance of electoral integrity, asserting that fake voters, non-citizens and individuals without a legitimate stake in Indias future must not influence elections  a threat it calls serious for national sovereignty.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:49 IST

News india 'Democracy Under Assault: Judges, Bureaucrats Slam Rahul Gandhi For Criticising Poll Body

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Do We Still Count? SIR Suspense Soars In West Bengal's Matua Heartland | Ground Report

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:00 IST

News18 visited Thakurnagar, the cultural and religious centre of the Matua community

A regular morning in Thakurbari is now dominated by discussions on SIR and CAA. Image/News18

The Election Commission of Indias Special Intensive Revision (SIR) process to review the electoral rolls is currently underway in West Bengal. However, in Matua-dominated areas like Thakurnagar in Bongaon, anxiety is rising. Many Matuas are unsure whether their names will remain on the electoral rolls, whether their existing documents will be valid, and whether an application under the Citizenship Amendment Act (CAA) will protect their voting rights.

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To understand the situation, News18 visited Thakurnagar, the cultural and religious centre of the Matua community.

Who Are the Matuas ?

The Matuas are a Hindu refugee community that migrated from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) over several decades due to religious persecution. They rebuilt their lives in India and obtained Aadhaar cards, ration cards, and voter IDs, often without historical citizenship documents.

The current SIR exercise, the first of this scale since 2002, reportedly requires voters to match their details with the 2002 voter list or provide documents demonstrating eligibility from that period. This has triggered concerns.

West Bengals ruling Trinamool Congress (TMC) claims that many Matua names might not appear in the SIR list, and if excluded from the voter rolls, their access to other facilities and documents could be affected. The BJP, on the other hand, has set up nearly 700 CAA assistance camps, reassuring the community that Hindu refugees will be protected and retain their voting rights.

To verify the situation firsthand, News18 reached Thakurbari in Thakurnagar.

Ground Mood in Thakurbari

A regular morning in Thakurbari is now dominated by discussions on SIR and CAA. Outside the Thakurbari temple, a group gathered over tea was talking only about documents and voter lists.

Uthan Mondal, a middle-aged resident, told News18, We have been living here for many years, yet we are worried. Most people do not have their names in the 2002 list. How would they? They came from across the border. Many are applying for CAA, but without documents, will our names stay? Many dont even know whether to fill out forms or not."

Inside one of the camps, several tables had been set up where Hindu cards" and Matua cards" were being distributed. Manish Biswas, who was distributing the cards, said, We came here in 1984. My name is not in the 2002 list, but I am confident something will work out."

His confidence, however, was not shared by those around him. A young man filling out a Matua card said, We never thought wed have to do all this. We are worried. We dont know whether the CAA application will be accepted or not." Even volunteers running the camps appeared unsure about how the SIR and CAA processes interact.

Multiple CAA Camps, Rising Questions

News18 visited another CAA help centre to understand the common queries. Prasenjit Biswas, who was running the camp, said, Many people are coming with the same set of questions. We are telling them SIR and CAA are not the same. We are advising them to apply, but they ask whether this CAA application can be shown to the ERO during hearings. There is no instruction on whether this form will be considered or whether their names will be deleted. Every day, hundreds come, all confused."

Another resident told News18, I have no documents. What should I do?" It was clear that beyond the political debate, confusion on the ground remains highand there is no clear authority providing clarity.

Hunger Strike and TMC Position

On the other side of Thakurbari is the home of TMC MP Mamata Bala Thakur, where a 13-day hunger strike was recently held. The protest was withdrawn after a request from Trinamool national general secretary Abhishek Banerjee, and Mamata Bala Thakur has since been hospitalised.

Several Gosais and local residents who participated in the hunger strike were present when News18 visited. Ranjit Gosai of the All India Matua Mahasangha said, What are they doing? They became MLAs and MPs with our votes, and now they may remove us from the list. Why should we show documents when we have lived here for so long? Did we bring papers when we fled Bangladesh? And these CAA campsare they run by the MHA? No, right?"

Another resident, Rathindranath Mondal, said, Which documents will they accept? Will a passport work? And will they consider CAA applications? We dont know what to do. That is why we held the hunger strike. I have an Indian passport, but I still dont know if it will be accepted."

Local TMC leader Narottam Biswas, who was also part of the strike, told News18, I am speaking as a Matua, not as a TMC worker. My name is on the 2002 list, but many of my brothers and sisters are not. During the last SIR, so many documents were not required. So why now? And who is running these campsare these official MHA camps?"

People Still Seeking Answers

The confusion is widespread. Mohan Biswas, a middle-aged TMC supporter, approached News18 while heading to a camp and asked, I have an Indian voter card. I came here in 2010 and never applied for CAA. Will my name be deleted now? What will happen to my property? I work in UP. Politicians say many things, but I dont understand what is going on."

Another resident, Bidhan Kumar Biswas, was roaming with his property documents. We came in 2002. I have property papers, but will my rights go? I cannot sleep these days."

People running some of the camps are guiding the locals, but whether these are enough is the question.

BJPs Assurance

Gaighata MLA Subrata Thakur, brother of Union Minister Shantanu Thakur, offered reassurance. He told News18, We are sure not a single Matua name will be deleted. All will get citizenship through CAAthat is the promise. The Election Commission should consider CAA applications during SIR hearings. There is no confusion; TMC is creating confusion. My demand is that the EC include CAA applications among the accepted documents."

Legal Position & Uncertainty

Under Section 3(3) of the CAA, 2019, once someone applies for citizenship under the Act, their rights and privileges cannot be suspended until the application is decided. Experts interpret this as an additional layer of protection, and in this case, voting rights should also be there. The fact, though, is that Section 3, para 3 of the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019, doesnt have overriding power on Section 16 of the Representation of the People Act, 1950. So the process will not be easy.

However, sources in the West Bengal CEOs office told News18 that no instructions have been received from the Election Commission of India to consider CAA applications during the SIR hearings. This gap between political assurances and procedural clarity has deepened confusion on the ground. If CAA applications are not considered as supporting documents, a significant number of Matuas fear their names may be removed from the voter rolls.

A Larger Political Impact

The Matua community holds influence in nearly 50 assembly constituencies in Bengal, where elections will be held in early 2026.

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How many of them ultimately retain their names on the voter list remains a critical question, as the SIR process continues amid rising uncertainty and mixed political messaging.

About the Author Kamalika Sengupta Kamalika Sengupta is the Editor (East) at CNN-News18 / News18.com, focusing on politics, defence, and womens issues. She is a seasoned multimedia journalist with over 20 years of experience reporting... Read More

Location : Bongaon (Bangaon), India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:00 IST

News india Do We Still Count? SIR Suspense Soars In West Bengal's Matua Heartland | Ground Report

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Ricin Terror Plot Accused Ahmed Saiyed Injured In Scuffle At Gujarat's Sabarmati Central Jail

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 07:28 IST

Dr Ahmed Mohiyuddin Saiyed, the main accused in the alleged Ricin terror plot, has been injured in a scuffle with inmates inside the Sabarmati Central Jail in Gujarat.

Sabarmati Central Jail in Gujarat (Photo: PTI)

Dr Ahmed Mohiyuddin Saiyed, the prime accused in the alleged Ricin terror conspiracy under investigation by the Gujarat Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS), suffered injuries during a clash inside Ahmedabads Sabarmati Central Jail on Tuesday.

The incident occurred less than 12 hours after Saiyed and two other suspects were shifted to the high-security prison under judicial custody.

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According to Prison Superintendent Gaurav Agrawal, the scuffle broke out around 7 am in the high-security enclosure where the three terror-accused inmates were lodged.

The altercation reportedly involved three local undertrial prisoners placed in the same section.

The reasons behind the confrontation remain unclear.

Saiyed, also known as Jilani, sustained injuries in the fight and was taken to Ahmedabad Civil Hospital for examination before being brought back to the jail.

His condition was reported to be stable, and he was not in danger.

The prison administration has informed the local police, and an FIR into the incident is expected to be registered soon.

Saiyed, an MBBS doctor originally from Hyderabad, was arrested on November 8 along with Azad Suleman Sheikh and Mohammad Suhail Mohammad Saleem.

The ATS has accused him of attempting to derive the highly toxic chemical agent Ricin from castor beans to carry out what investigators described as a major terror attack" in India.

The agency claims Saiyed had begun the process of procuring equipment and raw materials, including castor oil, and had initiated the early stages of chemical processing.

During searches at Saiyeds Hyderabad residence earlier this week, ATS officials recovered an unidentified chemical and raw materials, which were sent for forensic testing.

Similar raids were conducted at the homes of the other two arrested men in Uttar Pradesh, though investigators said no incriminating items were found there.

Officials also stated that, so far, no link has been established between Saiyed and the doctors arrested in connection with the recent car blast in Delhi.

The ATS had earlier claimed that two Glock pistols, a Beretta pistol, 30 live cartridges and four litres of castor oil were recovered from Saiyed.

Investigators allege that his handler, identified as Abu Khadija, an Afghanistan-based operative linked to the Islamic State Khorasan Province, had guided him, and that Saiyed had also been in touch with individuals in Pakistan.

The other two accused men allegedly procured weapons from Hanumangadh in Rajasthan and supplied them to Saiyed, according to the investigation agency.

All three men were booked under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), the Bharatiya Nyay Sanhita and the Arms Act.

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Following the completion of their police remand, they were transferred to Sabarmati Central Prison, where Tuesdays clash took place.

ALSO READ | Gujarat Ricin Plot: ISIS Planned To Poison Drinking Water, Temple Prasad, Say Sources

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 07:27 IST

News india Ricin Terror Plot Accused Ahmed Saiyed Injured In Scuffle At Gujarat's Sabarmati Central Jail

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'Feels Like A Crime To...': Omar Abdullah Says J&K Unfairly Targeted After Delhi Blast

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:42 IST

Abdullah's remarks came after Dr Umar-un-Nabi, a 28-year-old doctor from J&K's Pulwama, was identified as the suicide bomber behind the deadly Red Fort attack on November 10.

J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. (File photo)

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Wednesday alleged that Kashmiris were being unfairly targeted in the aftermath of the November 10 blast near Delhis Red Fort and said the abrogation of Article 370 had not ended the bloodshed in the union territory.

An impression is being created that we are all responsible for what happened in Delhi. It feels like a crime to drive a vehicle with a J&K registration number. When I dont take security personnel with me in Delhi now while driving, I have to think twice, wondering if I might be stopped and questioned," he told reporters.

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His remarks came after Dr Umar Nabi, a 28-year-old assistant professor at Haryanas Al-Falah University, was identified as the suspected suicide attacker in Delhi. He originally hailed from J&Ks Pulwama. Two others, Dr Muzzamil Shakeel and Dr Shaheen Shahid, arrested with arms, ammunition and explosive material, also had connections to J&K.

Hours before the blast, eight people were arrested, and 2,900 kilograms of explosives were seized in what police described as a white-collar terror module", spanning Kashmir, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, linked to the Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

READ MORE: Delhi Bomber Umar Nabi Was In Kashmir Days Before Attack, Had Handed Over Phone To Brother

Article 370 Did Not

Abdullah further said that revoking the special status of Jammu and Kashmir has not ended the bloodshed in the union territory, and those responsible for security should be held accountable.

If there is no blast in Delhi, then it is happening here, and innocent people are losing their lives. We want these things to stop. Over the last 30-35 years, J&K has seen a lot of bloodshed. We were told in 2019 that all this would stop. But, it has not," he told mediapersons in Kulgam district.

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The Centre, on August 5, 2019, abrogated Article 370 of the Constitution that gave special status to Jammu and Kashmir. The erstwhile state was also bifurcated and downgraded into two Union territories  J&K and Ladakh.

Raising the recent accidental blast in Nowgam, J&K CM said, You will have to ask those responsible for our security as to why it (violence) has not ended. That responsibility does not lie in our hands. He lamented that innocent people were losing their lives in such incidents.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More

Location : Srinagar, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:34 IST

News india 'Feels Like A Crime To...': Omar Abdullah Says J&K Unfairly Targeted After Delhi Blast

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Haryana Police Constable Returns Rs 11.11 Lakh Dowry And Gold, Accepts Just...

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:24 IST

Haryana constable Pankaj Yadav returned Rs 11.11 lakh and jewellery at his wedding, accepting just a token amount, sending a powerful message against dowry

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Haryana constable Pankaj Yadav's act in Jhajjar district sent a strong anti-dowry message, earning widespread praise. (News18)

A Haryana Police constable has taken an impressive step at his wedding, earning widespread praise. During his engagement, he returned the Rs 11 lakh given as dowry by his in-laws and accepted only Re 1 as shagun.

He also returned the gold and silver jewellery presented as dowry. The incident took place in Jhajjar district, Haryana.

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A Strong Message Against Dowry

Jhajjar district continues to set examples of progressive thinking. The latest instance comes from Sulodha village, where Pankaj Yadav, a Haryana Police constable, sent a powerful message against the dowry system. Returning Rs 11,11,001 in cash along with approximately 15 tolas of gold and silver jewellery, Pankaj and his family accepted only one rupee from the brides side as shagun.

This social initiative has sparked widespread discussion in the village, with villagers commending Pankaj Yadav and his family for their principled stand.

The wedding procession moved to Rewari on November 18, where Pankaj married a young woman from the district.

A Statement From The Grooms Family

The brides father, Vikram Yadav of Usmanpur, Rewari, had arrived in Sulodha with cash and jewellery as shagun, following tradition. However, Pankajs grandfather, Captain Amir Singh, and father, Dharamveer Yadav, returned the gifts, stating: Marriage is a union of two families, not a bargain."

Only a rupee was accepted as shagun, sending a clear message of social equality.

Pankajs Perspective

Pankaj Yadav stated that he had already refused dowry, emphasising that education and moral integrity should be prioritised, and evils like dowry eradicated. Currently undergoing training in Madhuban, Pankaj also highlighted his grandfather, Captain Mir Singh Yadav, as an inspiration.

His father, Dharamveer, added that while dowry is common in the Yadav community, they had decided not to accept it at all, underscoring that society includes both greedy and good people, and it is up to individuals to make the right choice.

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Villagers Applaud The Bold Move

The initiative has been widely lauded by villagers, with many praising Pankaj Yadavs courage, principles, and forward-thinking approach as a powerful message against the dowry system.

Location : Jhajjar, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:24 IST

News india Haryana Police Constable Returns Rs 11.11 Lakh Dowry And Gold, Accepts Just...

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In First Visit Since 2023 Unrest, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Reach Manipur Tomorrow

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:11 IST

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will visit Manipur on Thursday, marking his first trip to the state since the 2023 ethnic unrest.

Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat said there is Hindu Rashtra and prachar in Tamil Nadu as well. (PTI File)

RSS chief Mohan Bhagwat will visit Manipur on Thursday, 20 November, marking his first visit to the state since ethnic violence broke out in May 2023. The three-day visit comes amid ongoing efforts to restore peace and stability in the northeastern state. Bhagwat, who is currently in Assam, will stay in Manipur until 22 November.

On the day of his arrival, Bhagwat will visit the RSS office in Imphal and participate in a programme at Konjeng Leikai. He is expected to meet entrepreneurs, civil society members, youth leaders and other prominent citizens. His interactions aim to understand the ground situation more closely and explore avenues for community-level reconciliation.

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On 21 November, Bhagwat will hold discussions with leaders from the Janajati (tribal) community, including representatives from the hill districts. Bhagwats visit follows a series of high-profile political engagements in the state. After the recent trips of BJP leaders Sambit Patra and BL Santhosh, BJP national president JP Nadda is also expected to visit Manipur on 21 November.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Manipur, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:11 IST

News india In First Visit Since 2023 Unrest, RSS Chief Mohan Bhagwat To Reach Manipur Tomorrow

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Inside The Codeine Cartel: How Varanasi's 'Cough Syrup King' Built His Multi-Crore Empire

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:11 IST

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh probe Shubham Jaiswals alleged multi-crore codeine syrup trade, with over 130 businessmen under scrutiny and links to Bangladesh diversion emerging

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Shubham Jaiswal's ascent from an unremarkable youth to the so-called "cough syrup king" was swift. (News18 Hindi)

Authorities in Uttar Pradesh have intensified action against the network allegedly built by Shubham Jaiswal, a Varanasi resident who investigators say emerged as the central figure in a multi-crore illegal trade of codeine phosphate-based cough syrup. More than 130 businessmen believed to be connected to him are now under scrutiny, marking one of the states biggest anti-narcotic operations in recent years.

Officials say Jaiswals ascent from an unremarkable youth to the so-called cough syrup king" was swift. In barely four years, his lifestyle transformed dramatically. Residents in parts of Varanasi recall that he frequently moved around the city accompanied by a convoy of high-end vehicles, including luxury SUVs such as the Land Rover Defender and the Toyota Fortuner Legender. Investigators estimate that he accumulated property worth several crores during this period.

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His growing public visibility had also begun to attract attention. In recent months, posters carrying his name and photograph appeared across several neighbourhoods, wishing residents on Navratri, Diwali and Chhath Puja. The Varanasi Municipal Corporation subsequently removed the posters and issued a penalty notice of Rs 5.5 lakh for unauthorised publicity.

According to officials, Jaiswal studied at Harishchandra Degree College and had shown an early interest in politics. On Diwali this year, he reportedly distributed more than three quintals of sweets to medical traders in the city, with each box bearing his photograph. Traders say nearly every pharmacy, large or small, received these festive parcels.

The legal case widened earlier this month when Drug Inspector Junab Ali filed an FIR at Kotwali police station against Bhola Prasad of Shaily Traders, Jaiswal, and 26 others. Key documents related to the transactions have been handed over to the police, who are now verifying the supply chain.

Preliminary findings point to large-scale discrepancies. Records show that Shaily Traders, based in Ranchi, procured 89 lakh bottles of an Abbott Healthcare cough syrup valued at Rs 100 crore between 2023 and 2025. Of this, stock worth Rs 50 crore was shown as sold to 28 wholesalers in Varanasi.

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However, when the Food Safety and Drug Administration Commissioner initiated an inquiry, most of these alleged sales could not be substantiated. Several shops were found locked, while some firms that had purportedly purchased the stock had ceased operations altogether. Investigators now believe that many of these transactions existed only on paper.

Officials allege that the actual consignments were diverted to Bangladesh, where codeine-based cough syrups are widely misused as intoxicants. The investigation is continuing, and authorities say more names from Varanasis business circles are likely to surface as the probe deepens.

Location : Varanasi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:11 IST

News india Inside The Codeine Cartel: How Varanasi's 'Cough Syrup King' Built His Multi-Crore Empire

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Karnataka To Submit Revised Mekedatu DPR After Supreme Court Win, Moves Swiftly On Project

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CNN-News18

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 05:40 IST

Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar, who also holds the Water Resources portfolio, affirmed the state's resolve to push the long-pending project forward

To expedite the project on the ground, the Water Resources Department is establishing new operational hubs. Image/News18

Days after the Supreme Court dismissed a plea by Tamil Nadu against the Mekedatu balancing reservoir project, Karnataka has moved swiftly, with Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar announcing the submission of a fresh and revised Detailed Project Report (DPR).

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Speaking to reporters after a high-level meeting with officials and the Cauvery Neeravari Nigam Board of Directors on Tuesday, Deputy CM Shivakumar, who also holds the Water Resources portfolio, affirmed the states resolve to push the long-pending project forward.

In the meeting, we discussed how to take the project forward post the Supreme Court order," he said. The earlier DPR was based on 2018-19 Standard Report (SR) data, and we need to make necessary revisions. We will submit a new DPR wherein we will provide complete details of the forest area getting submerged."

Legal Context and Project Push

The Supreme Court had last week declined to entertain Tamil Nadus application challenging the project, terming the objection premature" and stating that the final decision rests with expert bodies like the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA). Karnatakas legal team hailed the verdict as justice" for the states rights over the Cauvery waters.

This is not about a setback or a victory for any party, but it has given justice to the people of Karnataka. Mekedatu is a project for our drinking water needs, and it doesnt affect Tamil Nadu in any way; in fact, it benefits them," Shivakumar asserted, reiterating the states official stance.

To expedite the project on the ground, the Water Resources Department is establishing new operational hubs.

We have already started the project office in Harobele. We have also decided to open the office of the Chief Engineer and the Chief Conservator of Forests (CCF) at Ramanagara. Required staff would be given to these offices immediately," Shivakumar confirmed.

When questioned about the procedural submission, particularly to the CWMA, he stated, We will make necessary corrections and submit a revised one. We will submit it to the authorities required by the law."

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The Mekedatu project, a multi-purpose scheme located near the Karnataka-Tamil Nadu border, is designed primarily to provide drinking water to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region and generate 400 MW of hydroelectric power. The projects earlier design was expected to cause the submergence of close to 5,000 hectares, most of which is forest land, making the environmental clearance process critical.

About the Author Harish Upadhya Harish Upadhya, an Assistant Editor at CNN-News18, reports from Bengaluru. Political reporting is his forte. He also tracks India's space journey, and is passionate about environmental reporting and R... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 05:40 IST

News india Karnataka To Submit Revised Mekedatu DPR After Supreme Court Win, Moves Swiftly On Project

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Last Updated: November 21, 2025, 09:18 IST

Kerala Lottery Result Today: The first prize winner of Dhanalekshmi DL-27 will take home Rs 1 crore. (Image: Shutterstock)

Kerala Lottery Result Today Live, 19-11-2025: The Kerala State Lottery Department has declared the results of the Dhanalekshmi DL-27 Lottery held on Wednesday, 19 November 2025, at Gorky Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram. The winner of the first prize worth Rs 1 crore is the participant holding ticket number DD 212503. The bumper jackpot winning ticket was sold at Thiruvananthapuram, by agent P Thankarajan, under agency number T 2356.

ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Result Today, November 21, 2025 Live: Suvarna Keralam SK-28 Winning Numbers

The second prize of Rs 30 lakh has been claimed by ticket number DG 865593, sold at PATTAMBI, by agent Briighty Baby at agency number P 2528, while the third prize of Rs 5 lakh goes to ticket number DF 513069, sold at Neyyattinkara, by agent Apukkuttan V under agency T 5281.

ALSO READ: Kerala Lottery Pooja Bumper BR-106 Results 2025: First Prize Rs 12 Crore

Check the Live Updates and Full List of Winning Numbers below.
Yermak from Turkey: I am in contact with representatives of Trump administration, especially with Witkoff

Photo: https://t.me/ermaka2022

The head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, Andriy Yermak, arrived in Ankara as part of a delegation headed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and currently, according to him, he is in contact with representatives of the Donald Trump administration, in particular with Steve Witkoff.

"I arrived in Turkey as part of a delegation headed by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. All planned meetings are taking place according to schedule and in a working atmosphere," Yermak said on Telegram on Wednesday.

According to him, he is "in constant contact with representatives of the Donald Trump administration, in particular with the US Presidents special representative Steve Witkoff. "Together with American partners, we are working to stop Russian aggression against Ukraine and achieve a just and sustainable peace."
Lucknow Court Jails Woman For Filing False Rape, SC-ST Cases To Trap Ex-Boyfriend

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 14:05 IST

The court found that the complainant, who had been in a relationship with the accused for five years, filed a false case after he married another woman in February 2025

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The court said that the accused had lodged the fraudulent charges to exact revenge on her ex-boyfriend. (Representative/News18 Hindi)

A woman in Lucknow faced serious consequences for filing a false rape and SC-ST case. The SC-ST special court sentenced the accused, Rinki, to three and a half years in prison and imposed a fine of Rs 30,000. The court also ordered that any compensation she received from the state government should be recovered.

Rinki had lodged the fraudulent charges to exact revenge on her ex-boyfriend. In delivering the verdict, the court noted the rising number of extramarital affairs, live-in relationships, and other illicit relationships in Indian society, which present new challenges for law enforcement. The court observed that women often accuse their partners of rape after years in such relationships, frequently misusing the legal process.

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In this particular case, the court found that the SC-ST Act and rape charges were misused. The complainant had filed an FIR against Deepak for rape and SC-ST offences at Mohanlalganj police station on June 3, 2025. She had been in a relationship with Deepak for about five years, during which he promised marriage and maintained a physical relationship with her. The FIR claimed that on May 30, Deepak called her to his house where his family assaulted her.

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During the investigation, the complainant refused an internal medical examination, but the investigator still filed a chargesheet against Deepak. Upon reviewing the chargesheet, the court determined that while the complainant did visit Deepaks house on the day in question, no physical relationship occurred.

The court found that the complainant, who had been involved with Deepak for five years, filed the false case after he married another woman in February 2025. The court ruled that the rape case was unsustainable, noting that she had falsely accused Deepak in an attempt to disrupt his marriage and cause him distress.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:05 IST

News india Lucknow Court Jails Woman For Filing False Rape, SC-ST Cases To Trap Ex-Boyfriend

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Manipur Comes To Standstill: KCP-MC (Progressive) Calls For 24-Hour Bandh Over Sangai Festival Plan

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:08 IST

Manipur: The outfit states that it is boycotting the festival, arguing that the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state makes the celebration inappropriate in the current climate

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The KCP-MC (Progressive) has also warned that if the central administration fails to ensure free movement for Meiteis along the National Highways by December 3, 2025, it will escalate its agitation with a month-long statewide shutdown. (AP File for representation)

A tense calm settled over Manipur on Wednesday as the Kangleipak Communist Party-Military Council (Progressive) imposed a 24-hour total bandh, protesting the state governments decision to proceed with the Sangai Festival, scheduled from November 21 to 30 in Imphal.

The festival, halted after ethnic violence erupted in 2023, is set to return this year after a two-year gap.

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The outfit stated that it is boycotting the festival, arguing that the ongoing ethnic conflict in the state makes the celebration inappropriate in the current climate.

Adding to the growing resistance, the Coordinating Committee on Manipur Integrity (COCOMI) intensified its opposition to the upcoming Manipur Sangai Festival 2025, urging the public to support a statewide boycott and to join a mass sit-in demonstration organised by internally displaced persons (IDPs) on November 20.

The KCP-MC (Progressive) has also warned that if the central administration fails to ensure free movement for Meiteis along the National Highways by December 3, 2025, it will escalate its agitation with a month-long statewide shutdown.

Essential and emergency services, including the media, medical care, hospitals, water supply, fire services, and religious activities, remain exempt from todays strike.

Security measures are extremely high across Imphal city, with heavy deployment of forces not only around the Sangai Festival venue at Hapta Kangjeibung but also in anticipation of the bandh and the mass protest planned by IDPs on Thursday.

The bandh followed the state governments official notification confirming that the Sangai Festival will be held at Hapta Kangjeibung, Imphal, starting November 21.

Meanwhile, government departments continued festival-related preparations, including rigid pavement construction at Palace Compound Road, ground levelling, tent installation, and renovation of the Bhagyachandra Open Air Theatre near Hapta Kangjeibung.

Shops remain closed, roads largely deserted, vehicle movement halted, and only essential services continue.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Secretary Puneet Kumar Goel on Tuesday urged residents of the state to actively participate in the upcoming 10-day Sangai Festival, scheduled to begin on November 21.

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In a statement, Goel said that while the relief and rehabilitation of IDPs remains the state governments top priority, organising the Sangai Festival is also crucial for reviving economic activity and creating market linkages for local artisans, entrepreneurs, craftsmen, and farmers. He emphasised that the event could boost trade, investment, and wider exposure for Manipur.

With PTI Inputs

Location : Imphal, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:50 IST

News india Manipur Comes To Standstill: KCP-MC (Progressive) Calls For 24-Hour Bandh Over Sangai Festival Plan

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Muzammil Was Terror Module's 'Logistical Backbone', Used Telegram As 'Ideological Lifeline' | Exclusive

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CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 15:27 IST

After sensing that Red Fort bomber Umars reckless operational decisions risked exposing the cell, Muzammil insisted on building a secure, long-term support network

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Dr Umar Nabi (L) and Dr Muzammil Ganaie (R), both employees of Al Falah University in Faridabad, are the two key figures in the "white collar terror module" allegedly responsible for the Delhi Red Fort blast. (Image: ANI)

Dr Muzammil, a Kashmiri doctor and faculty member at Al-Falah University, played a central role in the newly exposed white-collar" terror module linked to the November 10 Red Fort car blast in New Delhi. CNN-News18 has learnt that Muzammil and his associatesamong them Dr Umar and Dr Muzaffarstockpiled large quantities of explosives and weapons in rented premises in Haryana, using their medical schedules as a cover for their activities.

Foreign handlers, identified only as Mansoor, Hashim, and Ukasha, allegedly guided him and his network on logistics, procurement, and concealment of explosive materials, sources told CNN-News18.

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What sets Muzammil apart is not just his role in recruitment but his vision: while others like Dr Umar wanted to push for faster execution of attacks, Muzammil pushed back. After sensing that Umars reckless" operational decisions risked exposing the cell, he insisted on building a secure, long-term support network. His calm, methodical approach made him the logistical backbone of the doctor module," sources said.

Muzammil reportedly told interrogators that he deliberately focused on recruiting educated Muslimsdoctors, engineers, and postgraduate studentsbelieving they had legitimacy, mobility, and could hide in plain sight within institutions without drawing suspicion. According to claims, his foreign handlers reinforced this by telling him intellectual recruits were the future of jihad. He used Telegram channels such as Farzadani Darul Uloom Deoband and Kafila-e-Gurba to spread doctrine and to recruit.

At Al-Falah, his influence grew steadily. His academic seniority allowed him to sway interns and junior doctors, and he actively pressed colleagues to justify logistical support or membership in radical discussion groups. His family, sources say, was entirely unaware of his clandestine activities.

Muzamil reportedly facilitated the renting of safe houses in Haryana, using his hospital duties and inter-state travel to transport munitions. He also converted hospital premises into storage hubs for explosive material, all while publicly maintaining the facade of a doctors life.

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According to police, this blend of ideological zeal, academic authority, and logistical sophistication has made him the most dangerous figure in what is being called the doctor module". Faridabad police claim that the rented premises connected to him concealed large stashes of explosive materials and that one of the cars linked to the terror plot, a Maruti Brezza, was purchased by him and co-accused Dr Shaheen Saeed in cash just weeks ago.

Top law-enforcement sources suggest this case represents a new template of radicalisation in India, where highly educated professionals, including doctors, are being cultivated and transformed into ideological assets by foreign networks.

About the Author Manoj Gupta Group Editor, Investigations & Security Affairs, Network18

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:27 IST

News india Muzammil Was Terror Module's 'Logistical Backbone', Used Telegram As 'Ideological Lifeline' | Exclusive

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News18 Evening Digest: Nitish Kumar Stakes Claim To Form Govt, NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi & More

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:56 IST

We are also covering: Muzammil Was Terror Module's 'Logistical Backbone', China Targeted India With AI-Driven Disinformation On Rafale After Op Sindoor, and more

A file photo of Nitish Kumar (Credit: PTI)

In todays News18 Evening Digest, we bring you the latest from Bihar, where Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar is set to take oath as the Chief Minister for a historic 10th time, along with updates on the Delhi Red Fort blast and other top stories.

Nitish Kumar Elected As Bihar NDA Leader, Stakes Claim To Form Govt For 10th Time

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Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar will take oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a historic 10th time after he was elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday, following the alliances landslide victory in the recent Assembly elections. READ MORE

NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi, Accused In Baba Siddique Murder Case; First Photo Surfaces

The NIA has released the first photograph of Anmol Bishnoi, accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, after he was brought back to India on Wednesday, 19 November. He will be produced before Delhis Patiala House Court. READ MORE

Muzammil Was Terror Modules Logistical Backbone, Used Telegram As Ideological Lifeline | Exclusive

Dr Muzammil, a Kashmiri doctor and faculty member at Al-Falah University, played a central role in the newly exposed white-collar" terror module linked to the November 10 Red Fort car blast in New Delhi. CNN-News18 has learnt that Muzammil and his associatesamong them Dr Umar and Dr Muzaffarstockpiled large quantities of explosives and weapons in rented premises in Haryana, using their medical schedules as a cover for their activities. READ MORE

China Targeted India With AI-Driven Disinformation On Rafale After Op Sindoor: US Report

The gradual thaw in India-China relations following the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit has coincided with new allegations from a United States congressional advisory body. READ MORE

India A Vs South Africa A 3rd Unofficial ODI, Live Cricket Score: IND-A Lose By 74 Runs

The third and final unofficial ODI of the ongoing three-match series between India A and South Africa A is taking place today at Niranjan Shah Stadium in Rajkot. India A skipper Tilak Varma won the toss and opted to field first. India A have made three changes to their playing XI. In place of Nitish Kumar Reddy, Vipraj Nigam and Arshdeep Singh, Riyan Parag, Manav Suthar and Khaleel Ahmed are playing today for the hosts. READ LIVE UPDATES HERE

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Aishwarya Rai Shares Strong Message On Caste And Religion: There Is Only One

Aishwarya Rai attended the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba on Wednesday in Puttaparthi (Andhra Pradesh) when she delivered a strong speech on caste and religion. In a video that surfaced on social media, the Bollywood diva expressed her gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for attending the event. She paid homage to Sri Sathya Sai Baba and talking about his teachings. READ MORE

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 17:55 IST

News india News18 Evening Digest: Nitish Kumar Stakes Claim To Form Govt, NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi & More

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NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi, Accused In Baba Siddique Murder Case; First Photo Surfaces

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:41 IST

Anmol was chargesheeted by the NIA in March 2023 after investigators uncovered his direct role in facilitating terrorist activities across India between 2020 and 2023

NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi, Accused In Baba Siddique Murder Case; First Photo Surfaces

The NIA has released the first photograph of Anmol Bishnoi, accused in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique, after he was brought back to India on Wednesday, 19 November. He will be produced before Delhis Patiala House Court.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Anmol Bishnoi, the brother and close associate of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, following his deportation from the US to India.

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Who is Anmol Bishnoi?

A key figure in the Bishnoi crime syndicate, Anmol had been absconding since 2022 and is the 19th accused to be apprehended in connection with the terror-gangster network led by his jailed brother.

Designated a significant conspirator in the case, Anmol was chargesheeted by the NIA in March 2023 after investigators uncovered his direct role in facilitating terrorist activities across India between 2020 and 2023. According to the agency, he worked closely with internationally designated terrorist Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi, providing critical operational support from abroad.

#WATCH | NIA team leaves from Delhis IGI Terminal 3 following the arrest of the brother and close aide of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, Anmol Bishnoi, after he was deported from the US pic.twitter.com/lHFDXAzICV ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

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Despite residing in the US, Anmol allegedly coordinated extortion rackets, oversaw arms movements and sheltered shooters associated with the gang. Investigators found that he offered logistics, funding channels and safe houses to ground operatives, helping to execute attacks and sustain the gangs influence across multiple states.

The NIA continues to investigate case, which focuses on dismantling the interconnected operations of terrorists, gangsters and arms traffickers. The agency maintains that breaking these networks, including their overseas infrastructure and financial conduits, remains central to curbing organised crime and terror activities in India.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:36 IST

News india NIA Arrests Anmol Bishnoi, Accused In Baba Siddique Murder Case; First Photo Surfaces

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PM Modi Pays Tribute To Indira Gandhi On Birth Anniversary

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:04 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modi (Image: PTI/File)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday paid tribute to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 108th birth anniversary.

In a post on X, Prime Minister Modi wrote, Tributes to former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on the occasion of her birth anniversary."

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Tributes to former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on the occasion of her birth anniversary. Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 19, 2025

Congress Leaders Pay Tribute

Further, several Congress leaders, including the Partys National President Mallikarjun Kharge, Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi and Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson Sonia Gandhi, also paid tribute to the former PM.

The leaders gathered at Delhis Shakti Sthal and paid floral tributes to Gandhi.

In a post on X, Congress highlighted that Indira Gandhi sacrificed everything for the countrys unity and integrity.

Leader of the Opposition Shri @RahulGandhi paid tribute to the countrys first female Prime Minister, Smt. Indira Gandhi ji, on her birth anniversary. Indira Gandhi ji, who sacrificed everything for the unity and integrity of the country, is saluted a million times," Congress tweeted.

On the occasion, Rahul Gandhi described her as a source of inspiration. In a tweet, he wrote that her courage, patriotism, and ethical values have guided him to make fearless decisions for India and to prioritise the nations interest in all circumstances. He added that her legacy continues to empower him to stand firmly against injustice even today.

The inspiration to make fearless decisions for India and to always prioritize the nations interest in every situation has come to me from my grandmother. Her courage, patriotism, and ethics continue to give me the courage to stand firmly against injustice even today," the Lok Sabha LoP tweeted.

Indira Gandhi was born on November 19, 1917. She served as Indias prime minister from 1966 to 1977 and returned to office in 1980, leading the nation until her assassination on October 31, 1984. top videos View all Swipe Left For Next Video View all

About the Author Manisha Roy Manisha Roy is a Senior Sub-Editor at News18.com's general desk. She comes with an experience of over 5 years in media industry. She covers politics and other hard news. She can be contacted at Manish... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:04 IST

News india PM Modi Pays Tribute To Indira Gandhi On Birth Anniversary

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Psychological Warfare And The Icon Of Delhi: The Red Fort In A Terrorists Imagination

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:38 IST

Groups like Jaish, Lashkar have long referenced Red Fort in songs & digital propaganda, branding it as an icon of lost Islamic rule & a target representing unfinished conquest

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The terror networks fixation with the Red Fort stems clearly from its powerful status as a symbol of Indias independence, sovereignty, Islamic history, and national pride. (Shutterstock)

In the late 1980s, as Kashmir began to simmer under unrest, a new kind of song began seeping across the border. Its lyrics promised glory, martyrdom, and revenge; rhythms loaded with the fire of faith and gunpowder. Among these was one that echoed through clandestine cassette players and smuggled radio frequencies: Sarhad paar jaayengay, Kalashnikov layangay". The slogan ended with phir se lal kilay par sabz alam lehrayangay". Literally translated, the lyrics meant the green flag will flutter on the Red Fort once again". For some, this was a call for action.

The tune carried more than melody; it was a message shaped by Pakistans psychological operations machinery. Produced from studios in Rawalpindi and Peshawar, it wove imagery of jihad. The language was poetic enough to blend with Kashmiri sentiment and militant enough to glorify crossing borders under a spiritual banner. Local recruiters used these verses to romanticise militancy, telling boys from Srinagar to Kupwara that they were soldiers of faith, not pawns of geopolitics.

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Behind this lyrical allure stood an older dream, one rooted in Pakistans self-image as the defender of Islam on the subcontinent. Since 1947, the Pakistani military saw the 17th-century fort, one of Indias most famous landmarks, in Delhi not as a monument, but as a symbol of unfinished conquest. Generations of Pakistani officers were taught that the fort, once home to Mughal emperors, represented Muslim rules lost sovereignty in India.

By the 1980s, this historical sentiment fused with Zia-ul-Haqs Islamisation drive, which weaponised religious identity as a national ideology. The dream of hoisting the Pakistan flag on the Red Fort was quietly nurtured in military schools and jihadi training camps alike. For groups like Harkat-ul-Ansar, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and later Jaish-e-Muhammad, the Red Fort became a shorthand for victory against Hindu India". When Jaish attempted attacks or invoked that imagery in speeches, it echoed this decades-old ambition, not mere fantasy.

What began as propaganda through poems and songs evolved into a multifaceted war narrative spanning multiple generations. In Kashmir, young men seduced by such songs often didnt realise the deeper architecture behind their emotions: a military-led ideological project using music as the tip of its psychological weapon. By the 1990s, loudspeakers and jihadi anthems turned it into a ritual, and resistance into recruitment. The fort also symbolises the rule of the Mughal era and Islamic governance in the Indian subcontinent.

In December 2000, the Red Fort came under a terrorist attack. Terrorists from the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba attacked the army garrison stationed inside the fort and opened fire indiscriminately. The attackers killed two Indian Army soldiers, along with a civilian security guard. Despite return fire from Indian troops, the terrorists managed to escape by scaling the rear boundary wall of the fort. Just last year, the mercy petition of Pakistani terrorist Mohammed Arif alias Ashfaq, who has been convicted in the case, was rejected by President Droupadi Murmu. Security forces had killed the others involved in subsequent firefights.

Twenty-five years later, 35-year-old Dr Umar un-Nabi, a physician from the Koil area of Pulwama districtwho was just 10 when the first attack on the Red Fort took placeturned into a suicide bomber, detonating an explosives-laden car outside the historic monument. The choice of location, it seems, carried a chilling sense of symbolism.

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Groups like Jaish and Lashkar have long referenced the Red Fort in speeches, songs, and digital propaganda, branding it as an icon of lost" Islamic rule and a target representing unfinished conquest". Masood Azhar, the founder and chief of Jaish-e-Mohammed, has repeatedly invoked the Red Fort as a reference point in his speeches and propaganda, framing it as a symbol of Islamic resurgence and an aspirational target.

The terror networks fixation with the Red Fort stems clearly from its powerful status as a symbol of Indias independence, sovereignty, Islamic history, and national pride. Terrorists attempt to target it to challenge Indias sovereignty directly and to create fear by attacking a site deeply connected to the nation, a high-profile location where an attack sends a symbolic message.

About the Author Ieshan Wani Ieshan Wani, senior correspondent, CNN-News18, has over eight years of experience in reporting, producing and editing news for broadcast, digital and print platforms. His reporting has mostly been fro... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 16:38 IST

News india Psychological Warfare And The Icon Of Delhi: The Red Fort In A Terrorists Imagination

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Red Fort Blast Aide's Lawyer Says He 'Showed No Remorse', Gets Schooled For 'Unprofessional' Conduct

Reported By :

CNN-News18 Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 14:59 IST

Smriti Chaturvedis remarks, effectively undercutting her own clients defence, have since triggered criticism from lawyers & social media users for violating professional ethics

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According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Amir, whose name was registered on the car used in the attack, was arrested in Delhi after the agency formally took over the probe from the Delhi Police. (PTI)

Amir Rashid Ali, arrested in connection with the Red Fort blast case, showed no remorse" for his actions and remained completely calm" during questioning, his remand lawyer Smriti Chaturvedi said on Tuesday as the NIA sought and obtained 10 days custody.

The remarks came as investigators pressed for extended custody, arguing that Amirs role was crucial in helping Red Fort bomber Dr Umar Nabi procure the Hyundai i20 used in the attack. Chaturvedi told the court that Amir has accepted ownership of the i20, a key piece of evidence in the case. According to investigators, the car was bought through OLX and later handed over to Umar, who reportedly converted it into a vehicle-borne explosive device.

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Chaturvedis remarks, effectively undercutting her own clients defence, have since triggered a wave of online trolling and criticism from lawyers and social media users who accused her of violating professional ethics.

Taking to social media, a user said: This is genuinely horrifying. Everyone is entitled to a proper defence. If the government-assigned defence lawyer speaks like a part of the prosecution team (a) she should be disbarred and (b) another counsel appointed who can do the job. But this is India."

Another said: What kind of defence" is this defence lawyer" going to provide?"

NIA CUSTODY FOR 10 DAYS

According to the National Investigation Agency (NIA), Amir, whose name was registered on the car used in the attack, was arrested in Delhi after the agency formally took over the probe from the Delhi Police.

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The investigation found that Amir, who hails from Samboora, Pampore in Jammu and Kashmir, had planned the attack with Dr Umar. Amir allegedly came to Delhi to help buy the car, which was later used as a vehicle-borne IED to cause the blast.

Thirteen people were killed and over 20 others were injured when a car exploded near a traffic signal close to the Red Fort Metro station on November 10. The car was being driven by Dr Umar, a Kashmiri doctor working at the Al Falah University in Faridabad.

About the Author Ananya Bhatnagar Ananya Bhatnagar, Correspondent at CNN-News18, reports on various legal issues and cases in lower courts and the Delhi High Court. He has covered the hanging of the Nirbhaya gang-rape convicts, JNU vi... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:59 IST

News india Red Fort Blast Aide's Lawyer Says He 'Showed No Remorse', Gets Schooled For 'Unprofessional' Conduct

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SC Refuses Blanket Protection For Protesting Doctors, Mulls Shifting RG Kar Case To High Court

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 23:26 IST

The bench also observed that the matter could not be heard piecemeal, indicating that it was inclined to transfer the entire case to Delhi or Calcutta High Court.

Supreme Court of India (Credits: PTI Photo)

The Supreme Court on Wednesday said it cannot pass blanket orders" protecting doctors involved in protests in the aftermath of the rape and murder of a trainee doctor at Kolkatas RG Kar Medical College and Hospital last year.

A bench of Justice MM Sundresh and Justice Satish Chandra Sharma remarked that such protection would amount to interference with police authority, noting that the police has a right to call" individuals for questioning, news agency PTI reported.

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The bench also observed that the matter could not be heard piecemeal," indicating that it was inclined to transfer the entire case  including issues linked to ongoing protests  to the Calcutta High Court, which is already hearing several related petitions.

We are grappling with so many things and there is no end to this. It is easier for the Calcutta High Court to monitor protests. Is it possible for us to monitor the protests in Kolkata sitting in Delhi? How can we pass blanket orders protecting doctors. The police has a right to call you," the bench observed orally, as reported by the news agency.

During the hearing, the court asked senior advocate Karuna Nundy, representing the Association of junior and senior doctors, to submit a table of matters pending before the Calcutta High Court.

Nundy submitted that protesting doctors were being harassed by police and were called for interrogation repeatedly.

The bench, however, reiterated that it could not issue sweeping protective orders but would examine specific concerns on the next date of hearing. The matter will now come up after the winter vacation.

The top court had taken suo motu cognisance of the RG Kar case in August 2024 after the body of the postgraduate trainee doctor was found in a seminar room on August 9. While taking suo motu notice of the case, the bench constituted a National Task Force (NTF) on August 20 last year to formulate a protocol to ensure safety and security of medical professionals in the wake of the crime.

What Happened At RG Kar Hospital?

On August 9 last year, the 31-year-old postgraduate trainees body was discovered inside the Chest Medicine Departments seminar hall on the fourth floor of the hospitals emergency building. The nature of her injuries, which indicated brutality, and the fact that it happened within a state-run hospital, sent shock waves across West Bengal and beyond.

Widespread protests erupted across campuses, drawing students, doctors, and civil society to the streets.

The Kolkata police initially investigated the case, before the Calcutta High Court transferred the probe to the CBI.

A civic volunteer, Sanjoy Roy, was found guilty of rape and murder by a Kolkata court in January 2025, and he was sentenced to life imprisonment. But the victims family and several rights activists insist the case is far from closed.

Two other arrests followed  Sandip Ghosh, the then principal of RG Kar Medical College and Hospital, and Abhijit Mondal, former officer-in-charge of Tala police station, on charges of misleading the probe.

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But Mondal was released on bail after the CBI failed to file a charge sheet within 90 days.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 23:24 IST

News india SC Refuses Blanket Protection For Protesting Doctors, Mulls Shifting RG Kar Case To High Court

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'Nothing To Appreciate': Supriya Shrinate Rebuts Shashi Tharoors Praise For PM Modi

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 11:22 IST

Congress's Supriya Shrinate rejected Shashi Tharoors praise of PM Modis Ramnath Goenka Lecture, saying she found nothing in it to appreciate and calling the speech petty.

File photos of Shashi Tharoor/Supriya Shrinate (PTI)

Congress leader Supriya Shrinate on Tuesday rejected Shashi Tharoors positive appraisal of Prime Minister Narendra Modis Ramnath Goenka Lecture, saying she found nothing" in the speech worth appreciating.

Responding to Tharoors post on X, Shrinate, while talking to reporters, said, I didnt find anything in the speech (of PM Modi) worth appreciating. I think PM must answer a lot of things."

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He was at an event for a newspaper. He should tell us what his problem is with fair journalism. He should have told us why he is not happy with those who show and speak the truth," she said.

So, I didnt see any reason to appreciate him. I dont know how he (Shashi Tharoor) found one. I found it to be a petty speech. He criticised Congress there too. The Prime Minister thinks of the Congress day and night. This is amazing," Shrinate said.

#WATCH | Delhi: On Congress MP Shashi Tharoors tweet on PM Modi, party leader Supriya Shrinate says, I didnt find anything in the speech (of PM Modi) worth appreciating. I think PM must answer a lot of things. He was at an event of a newspaper. He should tell us what his pic.twitter.com/TKtfua9HGG ANI (@ANI) November 18, 2025

Her remarks contrasted sharply with Tharoors reaction through an X post, in which he highlighted the key themes of the Prime Ministers address.

In his post, Tharoor wrote that he had attended the lecture and noted that PM Modi had spoken of Indias constructive impatience" for development and strongly pushed for a post-colonial mindset.

Tharoor added that the Prime Minister described India not as an emerging market" but an emerging model" for the world, emphasised the countrys economic resilience, and said he was not in election mode" but in emotional mode" to redress peoples problems.

A significant part of the speech," Tharoor noted, dealt with overturning Macaulays 200-year legacy of a slave mentality" and appealing for a 10-year national mission to restore pride in Indias heritage, languages and knowledge systems.

While acknowledging that he wished the Prime Minister had also recognised how Ramnath Goenka used English to further Indian nationalism, Tharoor called the overall address an economic outlook combined with a cultural call to action, adding, Glad to have been in the audience despite battling a bad cold and cough!"

Attended PM @narendramodis #RamnathGoenkaLecture at the invitation of @IndianExpress last night. He spoke of Indias constructive impatience" for development and strongly pushed for a post-colonial mindset.The PM emphasized that India is no longer just an emerging market pic.twitter.com/97HwGgQ67N  Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 18, 2025

PM Modi, in his lecture, had argued that Indias education, economy and societal aspirations were historically shaped by British influence and stressed the need to break free of any mindset of slavery."

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He also framed Indias current trajectory as one of impatience for development and self-reliance, citing the nations resilience through the pandemic and global instability.

ALSO READ | Joint Statements Not My Job: Tharoor On Bihar Gobi Farming Row After Assam Ministers Post

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 11:08 IST

News india 'Nothing To Appreciate': Supriya Shrinate Rebuts Shashi Tharoors Praise For PM Modi

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Among the victims in Ternopil due to the Russian attack on residential high-rise buildings, of which there are currently 37, 12 are children, said Deputy Head of the Presidential Office Viktor Mykyta.

"In Ternopil, work continues to eliminate the consequences of the Russian attack on residential areas of the city. Currently, 10 people are known to have died and 37 were injured, including 12 children. The search for those who could have survived the collapse of buildings is ongoing," he said on Telegram on Wednesday.

According to him, immediately after the attack, representatives of the Ternopil Regional Military Administration. And city authorities began work at the sites of the hits. Headquarters for helping people who suffered as a result of the attack on residential areas have been deployed in the areas of destruction, rescuers, doctors, police officers, psychologists, lawyers and other specialists who participate in eliminating the consequences of Russian terror are working. The necessary forces, special equipment, aviation, engineering means, etc. have been involved. Food and access to water have been provided at the work site.

The situation is under the personal control of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Mykyta said.
Terrorism, Nothing Else: Owaisi Slams Delhi Blast Accused, Says Suicide Is Haram In Islam

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:23 IST

He said Nabis comments not only violate Islamic principles but also amount to a direct attack on the law of the land.

File photo of AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi. (PTI Image)

AIMIM chief Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday condemned Delhi blast accused Dr Umar Nabi after a video surfaced in which the latter attempted to justify suicide bombing as martyrdom" and claimed such attacks were misunderstood." Owaisi said suicide is strictly forbidden in Islam and the killing of innocents is a grave" sin, adding that no religious doctrine allows violence against civilians. He stressed that such statements cannot be normalised under the guise of faith or ideology.

Calling the remarks dangerous and deceptive, Owaisi said there was nothing misunderstood" about Nabis justification of violence, asserting that this is terrorism and nothing else."

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There is an undated video of Delhi blasts accused Umar Nabi justifying suicide bombing as martyrdom," and that its misunderstood." Suicide is haram in Islam and the killing of innocents is a grave sin. Such acts are also against the law of the land. They are not Asaduddin Owaisi (@asadowaisi) November 19, 2025

He said Nabis comments not only violate Islamic principles but also amount to a direct attack on the law of the land.

In the video, the doctor-turned-militant, Umar Nabi, argues that what is commonly referred to as a suicide bombing should instead be understood as a martyrdom operation" in Islam.

In the clip, he said: One of the very misunderstood concepts is the concept of what has been labelled as suicide bombing. It is a martyrdom operation, and it is known as that in Islam. There are, however, multiple contradictions and arguments that have been brought against it."

He then expanded on the idea, saying there are ongoing debates and objections around such operations, and described them as acts in which an individual knowingly embraces death at a fixed place and time, a deliberate rejection of the natural uncertainty surrounding mortality.

Explaining what he believes constitutes a martyrdom mission, he said: Martyrdom operation is when a person presumes that he is going to die for sure at a particular place, at a particular time, he goes against the presumption that he is going to die in a particular situation. Its not, we dont have, we dont have a situation."

Umar Nabis Phone Recovered

Jammu and Kashmir Police have recovered the mobile phone of Red Fort suicide bomber Dr Umar-un-Nabi, and data extracted from the damaged device has revealed a video he recorded to justify the attack as a so-called martyrdom operation," officials said on Tuesday.

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Investigators described the findings as chilling evidence of the bombers state of mind in the days leading up to the November 10 blast that killed 13 people.

The breakthrough came after police detained and interrogated Umars brother, Zahoor Illahi, who was driving the explosive-laden car that detonated outside Red Fort. A special team formed by Srinagar SSP G. V. Sundeep Chakravarthy picked up Illahi as the larger, white-collar terror conspiracy began to surface.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 11:56 IST

News india Terrorism, Nothing Else: Owaisi Slams Delhi Blast Accused, Says Suicide Is Haram In Islam

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UK Issues Espionage Alert As MI5 Flags Chinese Spy Profiles On LinkedIn Targeting British MPs

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 09:23 IST

MI5 has warned UK lawmakers of suspected Chinese spy profiles on LinkedIn, prompting an official espionage alert across Westminster.

MI5 Warns MPs of Chinese Spies Using Fake LinkedIn Recruiter Profiles

British intelligence agency MI5 has warned its Members of Parliament that Chinese intelligence operatives are using fake headhunter" profiles on job searching website, LinkedIn to target MPs, parliamentary staff, and officials with access to sensitive information.

According to briefings shared with lawmakers, the agency has identified at least two online profiles masquerading as legitimate recruiters but allegedly operating on behalf of Chinese intelligence services to cultivate potential sources.

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Officials say these operatives approach targets under the guise of career opportunities, seeking to build rapport before gradually soliciting privileged political or governmental information.

What we know about MI5s anti-espionage strategy?

In response to the alert, Security Minister Dan Jarvis announced a new Counter Political Interference and Espionage Action Plan aimed at disrupting foreign intelligence activity, with a particular focus on the threat from China.

Under the plan, intelligence agencies will deliver security briefings to political parties and circulate updated guidance to election candidates on how to recognise and report suspicious approaches.

The government will also work with professional networking platforms, including LinkedIn, to make it harder for hostile actors to operate anonymously or establish fake recruiter personas.

The strategy includes tightening rules on political donations through measures in the forthcoming Elections Bill, aimed at curbing covert foreign influence efforts. Jarvis described the move as a necessary step to disrupt and deter foreign espionage activity wherever they find it".

British governments China policy

Jarvis said, Today weve taken action to expose a covert and calculated attempt by China to interfere with our sovereign affairs. This governments first duty is to keep the country safe, which is why Ive announced new action to give security officials the powers and tools they need."

He stressed that while the Kier Starmer government would continue to pursue an economic relationship with China where beneficial, it would always challenge" Beijing when it threatened Britains democratic systems or national security.

Alongside the action plan, the government has reportedly committed substantial investment to strengthen the UKs security capabilities. This includes 170 million to modernise the encrypted technology used by civil servants and a further 130 million for initiatives such as expanding Counter Terrorism Policings enforcement of the National Security Act. Additional funds will support the National Cyber Security Centre and the National Protective Security Authority in helping UK industries safeguard intellectual property.

Jarvis also confirmed that surveillance equipment from companies subject to Chinas National Intelligence Law has now been removed from all sensitive UK government sites globally.

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Meanwhile, the MI5 warning follows the collapse in September of a case against two British men accused of spying for China, after prosecutors concluded they lacked sufficient evidence. Opposition parties have accused Prime Minister Keir Starmer of prioritising improved relations with Beijing over national security, an allegation the government firmly denies.

The espionage alert also comes as ministers prepare to decide on approving a large new Chinese embassy in London, a proposal already facing scrutiny amid fears of additional security risks.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : London, United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 09:19 IST

News india UK Issues Espionage Alert As MI5 Flags Chinese Spy Profiles On LinkedIn Targeting British MPs

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Sonam Kapoor Opens Her Wardrobe Doors, Says 'This Iconic Outfit Is From Aisha' | Watch

Published By :

Trending Desk

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 18:27 IST

Sonam Kapoor showed that the mint green blazer dress she wore in Aisha was actually from her closet.

Sonam Kapoors closet is a dream for fashion lovers.

Sonam Kapoor is the undisputed fashion queen of Bollywood. Over the years, she has charmed fans with her iconic looks and graceful appearance. Be it a red carpet, international film festivals or high-profile events, Sonam Kapoor has never failed to grab the attention.

The actress, once in an old video, gave Vogues All Access a glimpse into her closet, and it was nothing short of a couture wonderland.

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Sonam Kapoor Reveals Aishas Outfit From Her Closet

Sonam Kapoor channelled the role of a true fashion icon in her 2010 film Aisha. The characters closet was a dream to fashion lovers, and it turns out Sonam also feels the same. As she walked through her curated collection of designer clothes, designer Payal Pratap joined her in the walk-in closet.

Sonam then pulled out a beautiful piece of clothing and shared, One of my favourite dresses from her collection," referring to Payals one-of-a-kind designs. The mint green blazer dress was not only a gorgeous piece of clothing, but it also stood out as a piece with cinematic significance. This special thing is actually an outfit of mine from my film Aisha, which is actually my personal outfit, but I wore it in Aisha," the actress revealed.

Sonam Kapoor Flaunts Her Designer Collections

Sonam Kapoor further gave fans a peek into her gorgeous shoe collection. Basically, I wear a lot of Ferragamo, Louboutin, Manolos, Dolce & Gabbana and Aquazzura," the actress shared, holding up a pair of classic red-bottomed heels. These are one of my favourite pairs of shoes. Theyre Louboutins," she added.

She was further seen reminiscing about a shopping trip and revealed, I was in Paris when I bought these, and I was shopping with one of my best friends. Hes Manish Arora. Manish insisted I wear it because he said I look really hot in it." Then she moved to showcase an elegant pair of feathered heels from Dolce & Gabbana that she wore during her 2013 Cannes Film Festival appearance and revealed, These were made especially for me."

Then she went to show off a whimsical pair gifted by Sophia Webster and shared, These are actually my favourite shoes of this season, and I love these shoes. I love the little butterflies."

Sonam Kapoors Prized Possessions

The actress then opened up her drawer of jewellery and accessories, which included Dolce & Gabbana trinkets, Dior pieces, and a delicate Gemini necklace from Valentino. This is a vintage bow tie," Sonam shared, flaunting an exquisite vintage Chanel piece. Theres no doubt that Sonams closet is as iconic as she is.

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First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:27 IST

News lifestyle fashion Sonam Kapoor Opens Her Wardrobe Doors, Says 'This Iconic Outfit Is From Aisha' | Watch
Budget-Friendly Bathing Must-Haves For Wedding Season

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:33 IST

From hydrating shower gels to nourishing bath oils and exfoliating scrubs, these affordable picks help you feel fresh, soft, and wedding-ready without overspending.

From moisture-rich shower gels to skin-loving treats, here are the affordable yet luxe must-haves to help you glow effortlessly this wedding season.

Weddings are all about looking and feeling your absolute best and that starts in the shower. But who says indulgence has to come with a heavy price tag? With the right bath essentials, you can enjoy a luxurious, pampering experience without stretching your budget. From moisture-rich shower gels to skin-loving treats, here are the affordable yet luxe must-haves to help you glow effortlessly this wedding season.

Fiama Japanese Hokkaido Milk Bar Celebration Pack

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Fiama Moisturising Bars with Japanese Hokkaido Milk come in a celebration pack featuring three unique milk bars, Acai Berry, Goji Berry, and Blueberry. Specially crafted to nourish and rejuvenate your skin, these bars are enriched with 1/3 moisturisers and Vitamin F to provide deep hydration. The rich, creamy lather gently cleanses without stripping essential moisture, while the mood-uplifting fragrance leaves your skin feeling soft, refreshed, and happy. Price: 505

Khadi Natural Lavender & Neroli Bath Oil

Khadi Natural Lavender & Neroli Bath Oil is perfect for relaxation. It helps relieve stress, soothe muscles, uplift your mood, and improve skin texture. This exclusive blend of natural oils absorbs quickly, leaving your skin soft, silky, and nourished. Ideal for daily use, it makes your bath ritual both calming and rejuvenating. Price: 250

Vivel Red Aloe Vera & Cherry Blossom Shower Gel

A good shower can set the tone for your entire day and for that, Vivels Red Aloe Vera & Cherry Blossom Shower Gel is an excellent choice. Enriched with the natural goodness of Red Aloe Vera and Cherry Blossom, this body wash keeps your skin soft and hydrated. Its plant-based cleansers and Vitamin E gently cleanse without harshness. Its paraben-free and dermatologically tested, so you can enjoy your showers without any worries. Price: 99

Skin Cottage Orange Peach Body Bath + Scrub

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The Skin Cottage Orange Peach Body Bath + Scrub refreshes and revitalises your skin. Infused with orange and peach extracts, it helps moisturise the skin for a smoother appearance. The blend of apricot kernels and jojoba beads gently exfoliates, removing dead skin cells and leaving your skin cleansed, polished, and glowing. Price: 604

About the Author Lifestyle Desk Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, r... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:33 IST

News lifestyle health-and-fitness Budget-Friendly Bathing Must-Haves For Wedding Season
International Mens Day: Toast To The Men Who Shape Your Life With A Drink That Matches Their Spirit

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 23, 2025, 18:14 IST

Discover the best premium whiskies, rum, and gin to gift on International Mens Day 2025. Curated picks for every kind of man, collectors, visionaries, explorers.

From rare single malts and luxury blends to innovative clear whisky, bold Irish expressions, Himalayan rum, and artisanal gin, here are the finest bottles that make every toast meaningful.

This International Mens Day, celebrate the men who uplift, inspire, and shape your world with gifts that match their spirit. From rare single malts and luxury blends to innovative clear whisky, bold Irish expressions, Himalayan rum, and artisanal gin, here are the finest bottles that make every toast meaningful.

Gift the Extraordinary: A Tribute to the Men Who Uplift, Encourage, and Define Excellence

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Glenfiddich Unveils Limited Edition 16-Year-Old Whisky In Celebration Of Partnership With Aston Martin Formula One Team

Glenfiddich, the Worlds Most Awarded Scotch Whisky1, has unveiled a limited edition Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky, celebrating its multi-year partnership with the Aston Martin Formula One Team. This exclusive release exemplifies the perfect balance of precision and intuition, reflecting the values shared by both Glenfiddich and Aston Martin.

The Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old is crafted from a carefully selected marriage of American oak wine casks, new American barrels, and second-fill bourbon casks. This meticulous blending process yields a whisky rich in character with distinct notes of maple syrup and caramelized ginger. A silky palate of fresh fruit salad and Chantilly cream builds to a finish that is both smooth and bold, offering a quality that eludes precise measurement, much like the intuitive connection between a driver and their car.

TASTING NOTES Glenfiddich 16-Year-Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Nose  Rich and beautifully sweet. Biscuity cheesecake base, maple syrup, caramelised ginger, and subtle toasted oak notes

Taste  Indulgent, confectionary sweet with a silky, syrupy mouthfeel. Fresh fruit salad and Chantilly cream

Finish  Super smooth with a sustained sweetness

For the man who seeks the rarest expressions of nature and craftsmanship

The Glen Grant 21 Years Old

The Glen Grant Single Malt Scotch Whisky 21 Years Old is one of Dennis Malcolms proudest achievements. Matured in the highest-quality ex-Oloroso sherry casks and bourbon barrels in the distillerys oldest traditional stone dunnage warehouseWarehouse Number 4each cask is hand-selected by the Master Distiller himself and married in small batches.

The Glen Grant 21 Years Old is a classic sipping single malt whisky best enjoyed neat in a nosing glass to fully appreciate its complexity.

Tasting Notes:

Colour: Natural golden

Aroma: Sweet, ripe peaches, toffee, and raisins

Taste: Rich tropical fruits and creamy butter notes

Finish: Long-lasting, caramelised creme

ABV: 46%

Price: 18,000 (Maharashtra)

For the visionary who sees beyond convention

Chivas Regal Crystalgold

Chivas Regal introduces Chivas Regal Crystalgold, a groundbreaking clear whisky that reimagines what modern Scotch can be. Crafted from a bespoke blend and refined through an innovative filtration process, Crystalgold achieves remarkable smoothness and clarity while retaining the depth and craftsmanship synonymous with Chivas Regal.

Blurring the lines between a clear spirit and traditional aged whisky, it is versatile, elegant, and ideal for contemporary celebrations, whether sipped neat, over ice, or mixed into a refined cocktail.

Available at: Duty-free Mumbai and Delhi

Price (1L pack): $79

For the gentleman who defines his own legacy

Chivas 25  The Worlds First Luxury Whisky

Made from the rarest 25-year-old Scotch whiskies, each batch of Chivas 25 is created from scratch in the blending room. Every drop is meticulously crafted to rekindle the delicate intensities and subtle textures that made the original Chivas 25 famous in the early 1900s. Each cask used is hand-selected and individually nosed to ensure a rewardingly rich final blend.

NOSE: Enticing fruity aromas of sweet orange and peach, followed by marzipan and nuts

PALATE: Hints of rich chocolate orange with a fondant creaminess

FINISH: Smooth, rounded, and luxuriously long

CASE FINISH: Each cask is hand-selected and individually nosed for exceptional richness

For the man who savours lifes boldest flavors

Jameson Black Barrel

Double-charring the wood gives the barrels new life, unlocking remarkable richness and complexity in every drop of Jameson Black Barrel. Its excellent neat or on the rocks and is often celebrated as one of the best whiskeys for an Old Fashioned. Dont take our word for ittaste it yourself.

NOSE: Rich fruity notes, butterscotch, toffee, fudge

TASTE: Full-bodied and creamy with nutty notes, spice, and vanilla sweetness

FINISH: Rich, intense, with toasted wood and vanilla

PRICE:

 Mumbai  3,750 (750 ml)

 Bangalore  5,690 (750 ml)

For the explorer who finds meaning in every journey

IDAAYA

IDAAYA is a multi-award-winning Himalayan sipping rum from Those Good Distillers, crafted unhurriedly in small batches by Master Blender Chris Armes. Rooted in ancient Indian wisdom and inspired by the mystique of the Himalayas, IDAAYA blends 12-year-old bourbon-cask-aged rum with pure Indian rum using a traditional Solera system in Sal wood casks. The result is exceptional depth, richness, and character.

With its deep amber hue, warm caramel-spice notes, and a bottle inspired by Himalayan terrainstopped with a symbolic compassIDAAYA is made for those who Keep Seeking." Its a thoughtful, elevated choice for gifting or toasting the men who embody curiosity, authenticity, and quiet strength.

Tasting Notes:

 Appearance: Deep amber with beautiful viscosity

 Nose: Caramel, vanilla, spice, toasted oak, raisins, plum

 Palate: Caramel, dark chocolate, toffee, nutmeg, cinnamon, pepper

 Finish: Long, complex, fruit-forward with vanilla and oak

Price: Approx. 7,000 for 750 ml (Gurgaon)

For the man who finds magic in the details

Monkey 47

Handcrafted in Germanys Black Forest, Monkey 47 is a premium gin celebrated for its masterful blend of 47 botanicals, including locally foraged spruce tips and lingonberries. The botanicals are macerated in a wheat- or molasses-based spirit, gently distilled in small batches, and then rested for 100 days in traditional earthenware vessels to develop its signature complexity.

With its striking apothecary-style bottle and intricate layers of flavour, Monkey 47 makes an exceptional gift.

Nose: Citrus zest, ripe berries, fresh herbs

Palate: Deeply layeredjuniper, citrus, spice, delicate florals, and herbal undertones including lavender, rosemary, and angelica root

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Finish: Lingering, harmonious, and beautifully balanced with Black Forest minerality

Price (500 ml): 3,000

About the Author Lifestyle Desk Our life needs a bit of style to get the perfect zing in the daily routine. News18 Lifestyle is one-stop destination for everything you need to know about the world of fashion, food, health, travel, r... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:55 IST

News lifestyle International Mens Day: Toast To The Men Who Shape Your Life With A Drink That Matches Their Spirit
Nagarjuna Says Family Member Was Held In Digital Arrest For Two Days Amid iBomma Crackdown

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:56 IST

Nagarjuna revealed his family faced a digital arrest scam, praising police for arresting iBommas Immadi Ravi. He warned of international rackets behind free movie sites.

Nagarjuna talked about how his own family member was exploited.

In the wake of the recent action against the piracy platform iBomma, actor Nagarjuna has shared a personal account of how cybercrime has come uncomfortably close to home. Speaking to the media after the arrest of the websites administrator, he disclosed that a member of his family had fallen victim to a sophisticated online fraud months earlier.

Authorities have been warning about a rising pattern of scams where callers pose as police or government officials, forcing victims into what is described as a digital arrest". These rackets often use video calls to intimidate individuals, isolate them, and extort money. According to Nagarjuna, his family encountered this exact tactic six months ago.

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Recalling the incident, he said, I remember in my own house, about six months ago, the same thing happened. One of my family members was digitally arrested for almost two days. These organisations (fraudulent) will track us and attempt to identify our weaknesses. My family member had to approach the police. When the police came online, they logged off in a second and couldnt even be traced."

A police official later told PTI that no formal complaint was filed in connection with the case.

Nagarjunas comments came shortly after police commissioner VC Sajjanar and his team arrested Immadi Ravi, alleged administrator of the iBomma piracy network, along with others accused of similar offences. The actor praised the crackdown and highlighted the wider dangers hidden behind free movie" websites.

It is just a trap that they are showing you movies for free. They hold no interest in that. They have a bigger plan, and theres a bigger conspiracy at play. This is a huge international racket to collect personal data and exploit people. Like Rajamouli said, nothing is free, and like Sajjanar said, piracy is illegal. Please be careful," he warned.

Earlier this week, Chiranjeevi, Nagarjuna, SS Rajamouli and producer Dil Raju met the Hyderabad City Police to express their appreciation for the recent arrests and ongoing efforts against digital piracy.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 16:56 IST

News movies regional-cinema Nagarjuna Says Family Member Was Held In Digital Arrest For Two Days Amid iBomma Crackdown
Opinion | A Step-By-Step Guide To Sheikh Hasinas Farcical Trial And Death Sentence

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:50 IST

By turning the legal process into a farce, Bangladesh has only hastened its own spiral into a frenzied, Islamist anarchy

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Sheikh Hasina may have been a deeply flawed prime minister and an autocratic dynast, but her trial and verdict was a revenge crime against democracy. (AFP)

Bangladesh stands at a point in history where streams of blood dry up only to stain and smudge the pages of law and justice. Sheikh Hasina may have been a deeply flawed prime minister and an autocratic dynast, but her trial and verdict at the self-styled International Crimes Tribunal-Bangladesh (ICT-B) was not just a farce. It was a revenge crime against democracy.

Jurisprudence was thrown to the shredder, almost every rule bent, every Constitutional safeguard brazenly breached, and justice put on the death row in Bangladesh.

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Let us start with the fundamentals.

ICT-B was premised on the International Crimes (Tribunals) Act of 1973. The 1973 Act and changes to it in 2008 were specifically meant to deal with the genocide during the Bangladesh Liberation War of 1971.

Amendments to ICT made after August 5, 2024, were done through an ordinance. This is invalid ab initio as the duly appointed executive was not around and Parliament had not approved the changes. The Bangladesh President is not empowered to issue the ordinance (Article 93) as Parliament was not lawfully dissolved.

Then comes the unconstitutional appointment of judges.

On August 10, 2024, the Chief Justice and five other judges of the Appellate Division of Supreme Court were physically forced to resign by an ultimatum" served by a student mob. The three current ICT-B judges were appointed by violating the Constitution. Chairman of ICT Golam Mortuza Majumder, a retired district court judge, was appointed as a high court judge only six days before it was declared that the ICT will examine the cases.

The second appointee, Mohitul Haque Mohammad Enam Chowdhury, is a retired District and Sessions judge. The third is lawyer Shafiul Alam Mahmud, who was also appointed lately as a high court judge.

These three were made permanent judges in violation of Article 98 of Bangladeshs Constitution. This Article requires a two-year period of satisfactory performance as additional judges before ones elevation as a permanent judge.

As many as 22 judges close to Jamaat were made permanent within a year of service. None of them have prior experience in international legal principles, a crucial requirement for trials involving crimes against humanity.

Of them, Mahmud has links to the BNP. In 2019, he was elected as a Supreme Court Bar Association member with BNP support and has been an active member of the Bangladesh Nationalist Lawyers Forum. His appointment to the ICT panel immediately contaminates it with bias.

In the next step, prosecution and defence advocates were fixed to secure a predetermined outcome.

Mohammad Tajul Islam, chief prosecutor of the International Crimes Tribunal, was earlier the main lawyer for war criminals. He seems to have been appointed by Jamaat-e-Islami purely to avenge the hangings of 1971 villains.

Having Toby Cadman as special adviser to the chief prosecutor is similarly problematic. He was Jamaats lawyer in the trials conducted by the Awami League government.

Although charges against Sheikh Hasina are as serious as genocide and crimes against humanity, ICT ordered the probe into Hasina and 45 others to be wrapped up in just one month. The outcome was clearly pre-determined.

Sheikh Hasina says she was denied lawyers of her choice to defend her case. The State appointed Mohammad Amir Hossain to defend Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal. Hossain has no prior experience with international criminal law.

He is quoted as saying: I did not attempt to (communicate with Sheikh Hasina). There is no provision allowing such an attempt. They also did not try to contact me, nor did they provide any form of assistance."

In August 2025, senior Bangladesh Supreme Court lawyer ZI Khan Panna tried to represent Hasina but his application was struck down. Hasinas propped-up defence lawyer got the 135-page chargesheet with additional 8,747 pages of documents and evidence just five weeks before the trial started. But guess what? He did not seek extra time for preparation. The defence lawyer was not even allowed to cross-examine witnesses. It strikes at the heart of the fairness of the trial.

Nor did Hasinas defence lawyer raise doubts about the authenticity of the telephone conversations attributed to her, when she has denied giving a direct order on the use of lethal force.

The trial did not take into account that several bullets that killed protesters were not of the caliber used by the police. There was hardly any forensic investigation. Nor did the court ensure safety of the accused during the trial. Several arrested Awami League leaders like Salman Rahman and Dipu Moni were attacked inside court premises in the presence of police. Outside the court, lawyers and the accused were like dartboards, thoroughly comprising the justice process.

And last, the current regime made its intent clear to prosecute Hasina and others even before the trial.

On October 17, 2024, even before the trial, chief prosecutor of ICT Mohammed Tajul Islam, had declared: The court has ordered the arrest of former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and to produce her in court on November 18. Sheikh Hasina was at the helm of those who committed massacres, killings and crimes against humanity from July to August. It is a remarkable day for us."

Nahid Islam, then advisor to the Muhammad Yunus government, had said: I want to tell everyone that Hasina will not be able to return to Bangladesh to do politics, but only to walk the gallows."

All this begs the question: Even after declaring Sheikh Hasina a fugitive, why is the interim government shy to take the matter to the International Criminal Court?

Bangladesh had become a party by ratifying the Rome Statute on March 23, 2010. The answer stares at our collective face.

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By turning the legal process into a farce, Bangladesh has only hastened its own spiral into a frenzied, Islamist anarchy. The only hope is that the legal transgressions are so grotesque that they would not stand the test of an elected, publicly accountable government.

(Abhijit Majumder is the author of the book, Indias New Right. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:50 IST

News opinion Opinion | A Step-By-Step Guide To Sheikh Hasinas Farcical Trial And Death Sentence

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Straight Talk | Bihar To Bengal: Inside Modi-Shahs Biggest Push Yet To Dethrone TMC

Written By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:13 IST

Modi's declaration that the Ganga flowing from Bihar to Bengal has paved the way for BJP's victory is the clearest articulation yet of the party's eastward ambitions

The BJP had deployed a special strategy in Bengal this time. (File)

The Gangas course from Bihar to Bengal is not merely geographical. Prime Minister Narendra Modis invocation of this metaphor on Bihars result day signals a political current that has already begun to flow eastward. The BJP has activated its West Bengal strategy not in the afterglow of victory, but in anticipation of it. Amit Shahs repeated visits to Kolkata, the quiet mobilisation of booth committees across 70,000 polling stations, and the formation of a five-zone organisational structure suggest a party that was never waiting for Bihars verdict to sound the battle cry for Bengal. Not after the rude awakening of 2021, when the saffron party was confident of victory, but faced a drubbing at the hands of the TMC.

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Modis declaration that the Ganga flowing from Bihar to Bengal has paved the way for BJPs victory is the clearest articulation yet of the partys eastward ambitions. The NDAs sweeping victory in Bihar, where it secured 202 of 243 seats, has provided both momentum and a template. Not to mention, the BJP has finally overshadowed the JD(U) and emerged as the single-largest party in Bihar. More importantly, it has demonstrated that womens welfare schemes like the Mukhya Mantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana, which provided 10,000 rupees to over 1.5 crore women, can be decisive electoral weapons.

But Bengals battle will be fought on terms that Bihar never imposed. The state urgently needs a government with the spine to confront illegal immigration. The current dispensation, by contrast, has perfected the art of looking away.

The numbers are stark and telling. Between 2023 and March 2025, the Border Security Force pushed back over 5,000 Bangladeshi nationals attempting to infiltrate India, with West Bengal accounting for 2,688 cases, the highest among all border states. In just three days this November, 94 Bangladeshi nationals were arrested trying to flee back to Bangladesh through the Basirhat border. There is, in fact, a larger exodus of Bangladeshis ongoing in West Bengal, triggered by the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls. Locals report that illegal Bangladeshis are fleeing Bengal in hoards, fearing exposure due to SIR. By mid-November, over 500 undocumented Bangladeshi nationals were detained at Hakimpur checkpoint alone, many admitting to living illegally in Kolkatas suburbs for years. The number of those fleeing Bengal is said to be in the thousands.

The SIR exercise has exposed what the BJP has long alleged: West Bengals electoral rolls are contaminated with illegal voters. Around two crore voters need to undergo verification to establish

links with the 2002 voter list, while UIDAI has deactivated Aadhaar numbers of 34 lakh deceased people in the poll-bound state. The panic among illegal immigrants is palpable. After all, they are not fleeing persecution, but accountability.

Yet, the Trinamool Congress has consistently opposed the SIR process, viewing it as a threat rather than a cleansing exercise. The ruling party of West Bengal has a track record of failing to provide land for border fencing.

The demographic transformation of West Bengal is neither natural nor accidental. The Muslim population increased from 19.85 percent in 1951 to 27 percent in 2011. In border districts like Murshidabad, Muslims now constitute 66.3 percent of the population, while in Malda they form 51.3 percent. Mamata Banerjee herself has claimed that the minority population now stands at 33 percent. This is not organic growth; experts point to sustained infiltration from Bangladesh as a significant factor.

West Bengals political violence is equally entrenched. The 2021 assembly elections witnessed systematic intimidation, with BJP documenting post-election violence that led to judicial monitoring and court orders for registering FIRs. The 2018 panchayat elections saw opposition parties unable to register candidates in over 34 percent of seats.

The result? TMC secured one-third of available seats uncontested. In 2025, clashes in Murshidabad over the Waqf Amendment Act left three dead and over 200 arrested.

The BJP had deployed a special strategy in Bengal this time. The party is gearing up to woo non-Muslim minorities like Christians, Buddhists, Jains, and Sikhs, who number around 25 lakh voters. Second, the BJP wants to be in complete control over the narrative this time, and would like the TMC to fight the election on the defensive and on the saffron partys terms. Third, and perhaps most importantly, the BJP has prepared dossiers on TMCs strongmen across the state. These strongmen play a crucial role intimidating voters and subverting the election process on behalf of their patrons.

Additionally, the BJP has deployed over 50,000 booth-level agents for the SIR exercise and formed committees at 70,000 of the states 91,000 booths. Senior BJP leaders from across the country have been assigned to five zones: Kolkata, Nabadwip, Howrah-Hooghly-Midnapore, North Bengal, and the

Rarh region. The organisational groundwork that began before Bihars results were declared is now in full swing.

The contrast with Bihar offers both promise and caution. The Mukhya Mantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana provided immediate cash support to 1.5 crore women, with an additional 2 lakh rupees promised to those who sustain their enterprises for six months. This scheme is now being widely credited as a big reason for the NDAs landslide victory. TMCs Lakshmi Bhandar scheme, which provides 1,000 rupees monthly to general category women and 1,200 rupees to SC/ST women, covers 2.2 crore beneficiaries. But BJP-ruled states have demonstrated they can match or exceed such welfare spending while also delivering on security and governance. Whether they can convince the women of West Bengal of the same will become clear early next year.

Meanwhile, the dynasty question looms large over the TMC. Abhishek Banerjee, Mamatas nephew and TMCs national general secretary, is widely seen as her political heir despite her carefully cultivated ambiguity on succession. TMC leaders have openly stated that Abhishek will one day become chief minister. For a party born from Mamatas anti-Left struggle and her narrative of being an ordinary woman unburdened by political lineage, the turn toward dynastic politics is a vulnerability the BJP will exploit ruthlessly.

Bengals economy, while registering 6.8 percent GSDP growth in 2024-25, faces acute challenges. Despite government claims that unemployment stands at 4.14 percent against the national rate of 8 percent, urban youth unemployment reached 17.9 percent in May 2025.

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BJP insiders say their internal target for West Bengal is 160 seats. The Left-Congress alliances complete decimation in 2021, when it failed to win a single seat, has eliminated the third pole that once complicated Bengals political arithmetic. This is now a direct TMC-BJP contest. BJP leaders also sense palpable anger against the TMC government among the masses this time. Bengali social media is flooded with anti-TMC content  whether it be videos or memes  and the BJP is hopeful it can leverage this angst into votes by March next year.

Modis Ganga flows from Bihar to Bengal" is not just a line. It is a declaration of intent. The BJP that swept Bihar is the same party that has methodically prepared for Bengal even before that victory materialised. The only question is whether Bengals voters, tired of jungle raj and illegal immigration, will complete the journey that the Ganga has already begun.

About the Author Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra Sanbeer Singh Ranhotra is a Principal Correspondent with Network18, working on group-level ideas and special projects. Enthusiastic about both national affairs and geopolitics, Sanbeer focuses on issu... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 17:13 IST

News opinion Straight Talk | Bihar To Bengal: Inside Modi-Shahs Biggest Push Yet To Dethrone TMC

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:00 IST

1 / 8 The CLAT (Common Law Admission Test) 2026 will be held on December 7, offering admission to 25 National Law Universities across India. Each year, around 60,000 to 75,000 candidates compete for merely 5,790 seats. Annual undergraduate fees range from Rs 3,00,000 to Rs 4,00,000, prompting students to prepare for exams such as AILET and CUET alongside CLAT. (Local18) + Follow us On Google

2 / 8 Notably, CLAT PG scores are also accepted by several government organisations, including Coal India, Oil India, and for recruitment to the Judge Advocate General branch of the Indian Army. (Local18)

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3 / 8 The India International University of Legal Education and Research (IIULER), Goa, the only law university established by the Bar Council of India Trust, also admits students based on CLAT scores. (Local18)

4 / 8 All India Law Entrance Test (AILET): Conducted by National Law University, Delhi, this exam is entirely separate from CLAT, and NLU Delhi does not accept CLAT scores. The test will be held online on December 14 from 2 pm to 4 pm, offering admission to BA LLB (Hons.), LLM, and PhD programmes. NLU Delhi, one of Indias premier law institutions, has 110 seats for BA LLB. (Local18)

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5 / 8 Narsee Monjee Law Aptitude Test: Conducted by NMIMS, which has campuses in Mumbai, Indore, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Chandigarh. Applications open in December, and the exam takes place in March. It is held for admission to BA LLB (Hons.) and BBA LLB (Hons.) programmes. NMIMS is renowned for its global exposure, modern teaching methods, and exceptional corporate law training, making it a popular choice among aspirants. (Local18)

6 / 8 Symbiosis Law Admission Test (SLAT): Conducted by Symbiosis International (Deemed University) for admission to BA LLB and BBA LLB courses across its campuses in Pune, Noida, Hyderabad, and Nagpur. Applications are open until November 30th, and the exam will be held on December 20 and 28. Symbiosis Law School is regarded as one of the countrys top private law institutions, known for its strong infrastructure, flexible academic environment, and excellent placement record. (Local18)

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7 / 8 MH Common Entrance Test (MH CET Law): Conducted by the Maharashtra State CET Cell for 3-year and 5-year law programmes. It provides entry into leading government colleges such as GLC Mumbai and ILS Pune. Applications begin in December, and the exam will be held in April. It is considered an ideal option for students seeking affordable fees, solid placements, and value-driven legal education. (Local18)
Last Updated: November 18, 2025, 21:45 IST

1 / 9 Tucked away in the misty folds of the Eastern Ghats in Andhra Pradesh, Lambasingi is a serene hill station that offers a rare and magical experience - temperatures that occasionally dip below zero, creating the illusion of snowfall. Often called the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, this quiet village is the only place in South India where you might witness frost and snow-like conditions during winter. With its cool climate, lush landscapes, and tranquil charm, Lambasingi is a dream destination for nature lovers and those seeking a peaceful escape. (Image: Wikimedia Commons) + Follow us On Google

2 / 9 Lambasingis biggest draw is its chilly winter weather. From November to January, temperatures can fall below freezing, occasionally resulting in frost and a snow-like ambiance. For travelers in South India craving a wintry escape without heading north, Lambasingi offers a unique and accessible alternative. (Image: Instagram)

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3 / 9 Surrounded by dense forests, rolling hills, and sprawling coffee plantations, Lambasingi is a visual delight. Mist-laden mornings and crisp evenings create a calming atmosphere, perfect for photography, long walks, or simply soaking in the natural beauty. (Image: Instagram)

4 / 9 This offbeat destination is a haven for birdwatchers and nature photographers. Its rich biodiversity and commitment to eco-tourism make it ideal for travelers who want to explore responsibly and connect with unspoiled nature. (Image: Instagram)

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5 / 9 Top Places to Visit in and Around Lambasingi

Thajangi Reservoir: Just a short drive from the village, this peaceful reservoir is surrounded by hills and forests. Its a great spot for picnics, boating, or simply relaxing by the water.

Kothapalli Waterfalls: Hidden amidst thick greenery, these cascading falls are perfect for a refreshing trek. The journey through the forest is as rewarding as the destination itself. (Image: Instagram)

6 / 9 Coffee Plantations: Lambasingis hills are dotted with coffee estates. A walk through these plantations offers insight into local farming practices and stunning panoramic views.

Araku Valley: Located nearby, Araku is known for its tribal culture, cool climate, and scenic beauty. Dont miss the Borra Caves, a natural wonder filled with stalactites and stalagmites.

Saipathar Waterfalls: Another tranquil waterfall near Lambasingi, Saipathar is ideal for a quiet retreat surrounded by nature. (Image: Instagram)

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7 / 9 Must-Do Experiences in Lambasingi

- Trek Through the Mist: Explore scenic trails that wind through foggy forests and hills.

- Camp Under the Stars: Enjoy a night in nature with bonfires, fresh mountain air, and stargazing.

- Catch the Sunrise and Sunset: The village offers breathtaking views at dawn and duskperfect for photographers and romantics alike.

- Engage with Local Culture: Visit nearby tribal villages to learn about their traditions and way of life.

- Birdwatching and Photography: With its misty landscapes and diverse birdlife, Lambasingi is a paradise for shutterbugs. (Image: Wikimedia Commons)

8 / 9 Best Time to Visit: For a chance to witness frost or snowfall, plan your trip between November and January. If you prefer lush greenery and misty monsoon vibes, June to September is also a great time to visit. (Image: Facebook)

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Photo: https://eurosolidarity.org/

The Ukrainian parliament must regain its subjectiveness (agency), recognize the absence of a single majority and create a new coalition; then a government of national salvation must be formed on the basis of support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, European integration, democracy and strong institutions.

This was stated by Iryna Gerashchenko, co-chair of the European Solidarity faction, during a speech from the podium.

"This is the agenda of a warring country, of a parliament that is meeting for the first time in ten days. Two issues - the resignation of two "shooters", for whose appointment this chamber bears full responsibility. "European Solidarity" wants to remind the chamber and the country that always in times of deep political crises it was the parliament that took full responsibility for the situation in the country and for getting out of the crisis," the press service of Eurosolidarity quoted Gerashchenko as saying on the website on Wednesday.

It is noted that the faction has been blocking the rostrum for the second day in a row, demanding instead of the decorative resignation of two "swift" ministers, a report and the resignation of the entire corrupt government.

"How can we get out of the crisis now? The first is to restore the subjectivity of the parliament. Look at this hall, where less than a hundred people have gathered now. Are you going to get out of the crisis that you have driven the country into with such a collective?", - the deputy noted. "The second is the immediate announcement by the Chairman of the Verkhovna Rada of the absence of a single majority. There is none. It is time to correct mistakes, she said.

"Fourthly, you have created such a system when the country has been governed by the Office of the President for six years. Ali Baba, whom no one elected," she said. Gerashchenko.

"We want to thank 70 deputies from all factions. "European Solidarity" in full force, already more than 20 "Servants of the People", for which we thank you. "Holos", "Batkivshchyna", non-faction members who signed the resignation of the government. Ms. Svyrydenko should come here today and report on the two ministers whose candidacies she submitted. Look the country in the eyes, how it could allow such corruption in the supervisory boards that it appointed. You have no right to avoid political responsibility today," Gerashchenko said, addressing the Cabinet.

"The demands of European Solidarity are as follows. The report of Svyrydenko and the two ministers whom you are going to dismiss today, the subjectivity of the parliament, the announcement of the dissolution of the monomajority, the formation of a real coalition," said Gerashchenko. According to her, after the meeting of President Zelensky with the leaders of the parliamentary factions, a government of national salvation should be formed on the basis of support for the Armed Forces of Ukraine, European integration, democracy and strong institutions.
'Can't Be In Karnataka Congress Permanently': DK Shivakumar Hints At Stepping Down As KPCC Chief

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 21:42 IST

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar hinted at stepping down as the Karnataka Congress chief, saying he would remain in a leadership role.

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Karnataka deputy chief minister DK Shivakumar

Karnataka Deputy Chief Minister DK Shivakumar hinted at stepping down as the Karnataka Congress chief, saying the opportunity to serve in the party must be given to other leaders and that he would remain in a leadership role.

Whether Im around or not is immaterial. There is a dream of building 100 Congress offices. They (Delhi) have asked me for a list of those MLAs who have shown interest and those who have not. I will send that list. Some have shown interest, some have not, some want only power," he said at a party event to mark former Prime Minister Indira Gandhis birth anniversary.

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Those who do not have an interest in building the Congress offices  Delhi will give you an answer. This is what I intend to do  at least 100 offices of the Congress I will build in my tenure. I may be there or not there, but that is not the point," he added.

Will Be In Leadership Role

When some party workers expressed concern over his uncertain tenure as state Congress chief, he said, I cannot be here (KPCC) permanently. I am telling you all. I have completed 5.5 years, and in March, I will complete 6 years. There must be an opportunity for others to come, but dont worry, I will be in the leadership role. I will be there on the frontline."

Where I am is not important. I am confident the Congress will come back to power in Karnataka. Dont lose hope. We should all live on hope and continue working. We will get power, dont worry. But to achieve it, we must work hard," he told party workers.

Shivakumar was appointed Karnataka Pradesh Congress Committee President in May 2020. He had first intended to resign as KPCC President upon becoming deputy chief minister in May 2023, but was asked by AICC President Mallikarjun Kharge and senior leader Rahul Gandhi to continue for some more time.

Karnataka PWD Minister Satish Jarkiholi and former Minister K N Rajanna, considered close to Siddaramaiah, have openly expressed aspirations for the post of KPCC President.

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Shivakumars remarks came amid chatter about a potential leadership change and an impending cabinet reshuffle in the state, following Chief Minister Siddaramaiahs meeting with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi in New Delhi a day earlier as the Congress government in Karnataka approaches its halfway mark of its five-year term.

Shivakumar had earlier rejected speculation that he was stepping down as the Karnataka Congress president, asserting that he remains a disciplined soldier" of the party. I am not the one to blackmail the Congress. I have built this party and worked tirelessly day and night for it. I will continue to do so in the future. Our party will return to power (in Karnataka) in 2028," he said at the time.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 21:34 IST

News politics 'Can't Be In Karnataka Congress Permanently': DK Shivakumar Hints At Stepping Down As KPCC Chief

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INDIA Bloc Over After Bihar Poll Debacle; Gandhis Take Key Call

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Manjiri Joshi



Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 12:20 IST

The Congress, however, may still contest elections through state-specific alliances

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Congress leader Rahul Gandhi (left) with party chief Mallikarjun Kharge. (PTI File)

With Congresss Rahul Gandhi and Rashtriya Janata Dals Tejashwi Yadav at the helm, the Oppositions INDIA bloc had assumed they had the perfect formula for success in Bihar.

Instead, what it got was one of its worst performances and a crushing defeat  the RJD, whose Tejashwi was the CM face for the Mahagathbandhan, secured 26 seats, while the Congress managed an embarrassing win of 6 seats.

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In the Bharatiya Janata Party-led National Democratic Alliances (NDA) victory speech after the November 14 results, PM Narendra Modi reminded people of what he had said after Maharashtra, Haryana and even Delhi assembly poll results. The Congress is a parasite that brings down even its allies."

Do the Opposition bloc or INDI allies believe the statement? Will Rahul Gandhi go back to his 2004 slogan of Ekla Cholo Re, moving away from his mothers stance of taking everyone along?

Sources have indicated that the Congress now plans to go solo wherever possible. News18 takes a deep dive into where the INDIA bloc and Congress may be headed.

Amid this, BJP took a jibe at the Congress with a post on X with caption ???????????????????????????????? ???????????????? ???????? ???????????????????? ???????????????????????????????? ???????????????????????? ????????????????????????????????????"

WHY WAS INDIA FORMED? HOW IT GAVE RAHUL GANDHI THE VOICE HE NEEDED AFTER LS POLLS

INDIA or the Indian National Developmental Inclusive Alliance (INDIA) is a coalition of opposition parties which was formed to challenge the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and NDA in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections. Its key members are Congress, Trinamool Congress (TMC), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Samajwadi Party (SP), Nationalist Congress Party (NCP), Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), left parties (CPI, CPIM, CPIML Liberation) and regional parties like Shiv Sena (UBT), IUML, JMM, MDMK, RSP.

Taking a cue from the post-Emergency politics, the bloc was aimed at presenting a unified front to improve electoral chances and avoid splitting of anti-BJP votes. The ideologically diverse parties wanted to be seen as policy alternative to the NDA government. After several hurdles, with even the founding member Nitish Kumar quitting and joining hands with the BJP, it finally came together ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.

The INDIA bloc won 234 out of 543 seats, but fell short of a majority. Even though the bloc couldnt form the government, parties felt it had played a key role in limiting BJP to 240 seats, much lower than its projected goal.

Buoyed by what it called a success, the Congress, which emerged as the largest party in the bloc with 99 seats, earned the position of leader of Opposition for Rahul Gandhi. Media reports, too, hailed Rahul Gandhi, and the newfound confidence showed in Parliament.

Gandhi launched strong attacks in Parliament and in his rallies on a myriad range of issues. He alleged there was a full-scale and systematic assault on the Constitution", making a small copy of the book as his trademark, which he carried everywhere. Among the other issues raised by Gandhi were how demonetisation and GST destroyed MSMEs (micro, small and medium enterprises) and benefitted large industrialists", how Agniveer scheme was about treating soldiers as useandthrow labourer", NEET-UG, Hindus, handling of China and foreign policy. Then came his fiercest attack on the Election Commission (EC) after the Maharashtra and Haryana results. He said the poll body was indulging in vote chori and then accused the EC of deleting voters names through SIR.

The entry of his sister, Priyanka Gandhi Vadra, after the Wayanad bypolls, further emboldened him.

3 MAJOR LOSSES BEFORE BIHAR: HOW INDIA BLOC PERFORMED IN STATE POLLS AFTER 2024 LS ELECTIONS

The Lok Sabha post-poll energy proved to be short-lived, as the INDIA bloc lost three major elections.

Maharashtra: The opposition alliance or the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA), which included Congress, Sharad Pawars NCP-SP, and Shiv Sena (UBT), won only 46 seats against BJP+ group or Mahayutis 230 out of 288 in the elections that came months after the LS polls.

Haryana: In another shocker for the Congress, the INDIA bloc won only 37 seats against BJPs 48.

Delhi: While the BJP won 48 of the 70 seats, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) won 22 seats and Congress won 0. Beyond the numbers, the 2025 poll mattered as Congress was seen making attempts to eat into AAP votes. Many in the Congress termed attacking an ally fair, justifying it with arguments that formation of the AAP itself was on anti-Congress plank and that state polls were different than Lok Sabha.

Some consolation came in the form of Jharkhand where the INDIA bloc (JMM, Congress, RJD and CPI(ML) Liberation) won 56 out of 81 seats. In Jammu & Kashmir, INDIA-aligned alliance (NC + Congress + CPI(M) + JKNPP) won 49 of the 90 seats. In mid2024, in bypolls across 7 states, the INDIA bloc won 10 out of 13 assembly seats.

INDIA ALLIES REACTION TO BIHAR

Bihar has turned out to be the strongest jolt for the bloc. While the Opposition leaders did not comment on PMs remark on Congress immediately, their actions spoke louder.

Sources told CNN-News18 that the Congress had sought a meeting before upcoming Parliament session to press its vote chori" (vote theft) narrative following the Bihar result. However, key allies such as the Trinamool Congress (TMC) and the Samajwadi Party (SP) reportedly showed little interest in joining that effort. The message to Congress, according to sources, was that it can no longer assume leadership of the INDIA bloc.

Then came a rather public blow. The Shiv Sena (UBT), which was very much in favour of the INDIA bloc since its formation, given that the party had also formed a government in Maharashtra which destroyed Uddhav Thackerays party and politics, mocked the Congress after it recently announced it will go solo in the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections. In an editorial in their mouthpiece Saamana, the Sena accused the Congress of flaunting its national party" credentials in a bid to reassert relevance, even as its performance falters.

WHAT CONGRESS MAY DO NEXT

There seems to be no need for the INDIA bloc alliance. Gandhis also feel that the bloc is over. State-level seat-sharing can be decided as and when needed," sources told News18.

 , INDIA   Rahul Gandhi (@RahulGandhi) July 18, 2023

WHERE CONGRESS STANDS VIS-A-VIS ITS ALLIES

Bengal: The state is bracing for an election next year. The INDIA blocs key allies in the state are the Left, Congress and Trinamool Congress (TMC). While the Congress is on good terms with the Left, the TMC cant join hands with them. The same issue that had cropped up during the 2024 Lok Sabha polls, which had led to TMC chief Mamata Banerjees multiple flip-flops on her support for the alliance. So the Congress may not get into an official alliance with the TMC, which is likely to face a fiercer BJP bolstered by its Bihar success. The TMC has hinted that their leaders deserve to be considered for the blocs top post.

Tamil Nadu: The Congress has been seen as warming up to Vijays TVK, with reports of senior leaders urging the high command to tap into his influence in Kerala and Puducherry. What fuelled the fire was Gandhis call to Vijay after the Karur tragedy. This proximity, according to sources, had led to tension in the Congress-Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) alliance, as the DMK sees TVK as a challenger. Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalins hand" remark on stage has only added to the speculation.

Delhi and Punjab: The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), although part of the INDI bloc, has always had a blow-hot blow-cold relationship with the Congress, especially Rahul Gandhi. While Kejriwal has been seen meeting Congress chief Mallikarjun Kharge even after his release from jail, the relentless delay over a cup of tea" with Gandhi, during the formation of INDIA, had exposed how the equations stood. Moreover, Kejriwal had officially announced that he was exiting INDIA bloc after the LS polls.

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Uttar Pradesh: While Akhilesh Yadav-led Samajwadi Party (SP) did well in the LS polls as part of INDIA, his party is now keen on being seen as the head of the bloc. Yadav, having learnt a lesson from the Bihar drubbing, may, too, keep a safe distance, say sources, especially ahead of the 2027 polls.

Maharashtra: While the alliance faced a loss in the state polls, the Congress is keen to contest the upcoming Mumbai civic body or Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation elections solo, away from the INDIA bloc. The dates are yet to be announced. Even as Sena UBT took a dig at Congress in its mouthpiece, Gandhis party is seeking to bring the Sharad Pawar-led NCP(SP) on board as an alliance partner in Mumbai. Mumbai Congress chief and Member of Parliament Varsha Gaikwad, along with Congress MLAs from Mumbai  Amin Patel, Aslam Shaikh, and Jyoti Gaikwad  met NCP(SP) supremo Sharad Pawar at his Mumbai residence on Wednesday. NCP(SP) leader Supriya Sule was also present.

About the Author Pallavi Ghosh Pallavi Ghosh has covered politics and Parliament for 15 years, and has reported extensively on Congress, UPA-I and UPA-II, and has now included the Finance Ministry and Niti Aayog in her reportage. S... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:25 IST

News politics INDIA Bloc Over After Bihar Poll Debacle; Gandhis Take Key Call

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'For Good And Ill': In Shashi Tharoor's 'Personal' Tribute To Indira Gandhi, A Stark Reminder

Curated By :

News18.com Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 23:57 IST

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor said said even though he was a critic of the 1975 Emergency, former PM Indira Gandhi's assassination in 1984 felt like a "personal blow"

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor shared a picture of himself interviewing then PM Indira Gandhi for a Swiss youth magazine. (Image: @ShashiTharoor/X)

Congress MP Shashi Tharoor remembered late prime minister Indira Gandhi on her 108th birth anniversary, honouring her with a personal" tribute that also had a stark reminder for all.

Tharoor said Indira Gandhi left a major imprint, for good and ill", on modern Indias history as part of her towering legacy". He said even though he was a critic of the 1975 Emergency, her assassination felt like a personal blow".

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Even though I was a critic of the Emergency, as reflected in my books, her assassination felt like a personal blow. Today, one remembers a figure who left a major imprint, for good and ill, on modern Indias history," Tharoor said in a post on X.

Honouring the towering legacy of our late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, whose 108th birthday anniversary is today. Much has been (&will be) written about her decisive leadership in redrawing the map of the subcontinent in 1971 and (less admiringly) of the Emergency four years pic.twitter.com/qIlaOZmPwE Shashi Tharoor (@ShashiTharoor) November 19, 2025

Honouring the towering legacy of our late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, whose 108th birthday anniversary is today. Much has been (&will be) written about her decisive leadership in redrawing the map of the subcontinent in 1971 and (less admiringly) of the Emergency four years later, so today I will confine myself to the personal," he said.

Tharoor said his late grandmother Mundarath Jayasankini Amma was born on the same day as Indira Gandhi, which created a strange kind of affinity in our household". He recalled his meeting with her as an 18-year-old student union president of St Stephens College in 1974 and how he interviewed her for a Swiss youth magazine.

He said he got the opportunity to interview Gandhi again when she lost the 1977 elections  at great length in two hour-long sessions on her foreign policy for his doctoral dissertation, which was later published as his book Reasons of State".

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Born on November 19, 1917, Indira Gandhi served as the prime minister from 1966 to 1977 and then again from 1980 until her assassination on October 31, 1984.

(With PTI inputs)

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 23:57 IST

News politics 'For Good And Ill': In Shashi Tharoor's 'Personal' Tribute To Indira Gandhi, A Stark Reminder

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Mahayuti Rift Widens As Sena Ministers Boycott Cabinet, Fadnavis Steps In To Defuse Crisis

Reported By :

News18.com Edited By: Apoorva Misra



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 09:08 IST

Apart from BJPs decision to accommodate leaders who had contested against Sena candidates, the ministers were also distressed over alleged imbalance in fund allocation

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The move immediately triggered speculation that the BJP-Shiv Sena friction, simmering over the past few weeks, had finally reached a tipping point. (PTI)

Tensions within Maharashtras ruling Mahayuti alliance escalated on Tuesday after Shiv Sena (Shinde faction) ministers skipped the state cabinet meeting in Mumbai. Their boycott came just hours after the BJP inducted two leaders who had contested against Sena MLAs in the last assembly electionsAdvait Hire, who ran against minister Dada Bhuse, and Raju Khare, who contested against Sanjay Shirsat. The move immediately triggered speculation that the BJP-Shiv Sena friction, simmering over the past few weeks, had finally reached a tipping point.

However, by evening, Sena leader and minister Pratap Sarnaik attempted to calm the storm, describing the dispute as a family disagreement" that had been communicated to chief minister Devendra Fadnavis and Sena chief Eknath Shinde.

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According to sources, Sena ministers were upset on multiple fronts. Apart from BJPs decision to accommodate leaders who had contested against Sena candidates, the ministers were also distressed over alleged imbalance in fund allocation and other administrative issues. Their absence from the cabinet meeting was widely seen as a public expression of the growing discontent.

Speaking after a meeting with Fadnavis and Shinde, Sarnaik said the ministers had simply voiced long-pending concerns. There are arguments in every family. Sometimes you just need to express whats on your mind. We conveyed our feelings to the chief minister," he said, stressing that the resentment was linked to the ongoing local body elections and the pattern of political inductions.

Sarnaik revealed that the three ruling partnersBJP, Shiv Sena (Shinde), and NCP (Ajit Pawar)had now agreed on a crucial rule: no party will induct leaders, MLAs, corporators, or office-bearers from the other allies. This, he said, would take effect from tomorrow [Wednesday]".

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Sarnaik also played down the importance of the new entrants. Referring to Advait Hire, he remarked, Who is Advait Hire? There are many such heroes roaming around who keep shifting sides," subtly indicating that such inductions held little political weight for Sena.

Sarnaik added that the chief minister assured that he would personally speak to minister Ravindra Chavan, one of the key figures linked to recent political movements. Meanwhile, Eknath Shinde will discuss the concerns directly with his ministers. With local body elections approaching, the Mahayuti leadership appears keen to prevent further cracks from widening. Whether this new no poaching pact" stabilises the allianceor merely postpones deeper tensionsremains to be seen.

About the Author Mayuresh Ganapatye Mayuresh Ganapatye, News Editor at News18.com, writes on politics and civic issues, as well as human interests stories. He has been covering Maharashtra and Goa for more than a decade. Follow him at @... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 09:08 IST

News politics Mahayuti Rift Widens As Sena Ministers Boycott Cabinet, Fadnavis Steps In To Defuse Crisis

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Nitish Kumar Elected As Bihar NDA Leader, Stakes Claim To Form Govt For 10th Time

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:59 IST

Nitish Kumar, who was first elected as Bihar CM in 2005, will take oath for a record 10th time after the NDA retained power with a landslide victory over the Mahagathbandhan.

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Janata Dal (United) leader Nitish Kumar will take oath as the Chief Minister of Bihar for a historic 10th time after he was elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) on Wednesday, following the alliances landslide victory in the recent Assembly elections.

This came after the JD(U) leader was chosen as the leader of its legislature party during a meeting of newly elected MLAs at his residence at 1, Anne Marg in Patna. Nitish Kumar has been chosen as JD(U)s legislature party leader by the newly elected MLAs," state minister Shrawon Kumar told news agency PTI.

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After the JD(U) meeting, Nitish Kumar, accompanied by Vijay Chaudhary and Sanjay Jha, attended the NDA legislative party meeting in the State legislative assemblys Central Hall, where he was elected as the leader of the NDA.

#WATCH | Patna, Bihar | Nitish Kumar named as the leader of the NDA legislature party pic.twitter.com/KhyJ9KmWKL ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

Kumar met Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan in the evening, staked the claim to form the government. He also submitted a letter of support from all NDA constituents to the governor for the formation of the new government.

The swearing-in of the new government is scheduled for November 20, but leaders of the JD(U) and the BJP are reportedly yet to resolve their differences over key positions, with both parties negotiating over the Deputy Chief Minister posts and the Speakers position. BJPs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha are likely to be retained as deputy CMs.

ALSO READ: Bihar Cabinet Formation: Suspense Over Who Gets What Ahead Of Thursday Swearing-In

The NDA swept back to power with 202 seats in the 243-member House, with BJP bagging 89, JD(U) 85, LJP (RV) 19, HAM-S 5 and RLM 4. The oppositions Mahagathbandhan was decimated to less than 40 seats, with RJD getting 25 and the Congress getting six out of the 61 it had contested.

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While JD(U) is expected to retain most of its existing ministers, the BJP is likely to bring in several new faces, sources told CNN-News18. Smaller allies, Chirag Paswans LJP (RV), Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM-S and Upendra Kushwahas RLM, are also set to find representation.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new government will take place in historic Gandhi Maidan on November 20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several top NDA leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, are expected to attend the event. Chief Ministers of NDA-ruled states, including Chandrababu Naidu from Andhra Pradesh, Conrad Sangma from Meghalaya, and Nephiu Rio from Nagaland, are likely to be present there.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 15:47 IST

News politics Nitish Kumar Elected As Bihar NDA Leader, Stakes Claim To Form Govt For 10th Time

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On Nitish Kumars Oath-Taking Day, Prashant Kishor To Hold One-Day Fast In Patna After Poll Rout

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:33 IST

Prashant Kishor will observe a silent fast at Gandhi Bhitiharwa Ashram after Jan Suraaj failed in Bihar polls.

Jan Suraaj Party chief Prashant Kishor (Image: PTI/File)

Jan Suraaj founder Prashant Kishor will observe a day-long silent fast (maun upwas) at Gandhi Bhitiharwa Ashram in Bihars West Champaran district on Thursday, November 20, as atonement for the failure of his party in the recent elections.

Despite working hard for three years, why have we failed to convey our message to the people of Bihar? For self-reflection and atonement, a one-day fast will be observed at Gandhi Ashram, Bhitiharwa," the party said in a social media post.

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The strategist-turned-politician would observe the fast on Thursday from 11 am, on the same day when JD (U) leader Nitish Kumar would take oath as Bihars Chief Minister for the 10th time at Patnas iconic Gandhi Maidan.

Kishore on Tuesday acknowledged the failure of his party in the recent elections, admitting that the organisation was unable to bring about a change in power in Bihar.

He took all the blame for the defeat and apologised to the people of the state. Stating that he takes all the blame" for his partys massive Bihar poll rout, Jan Suraaj party chief said that he failed to change the government".

We tried very positively from our end. We failed to change this government. We tried a lot from our end, but it seems we failed somewhere. I take all the blame on me as I failed to let people understand. We will do our introspection. I am sorry," he said.

Further pledging to work harder, Kishor said, I will work twice as hard as youve seen me work over the past three years and put in all my energy. Theres no question of backing down. Theres no turning back until I fulfil my resolve to make Bihar better."

The former poll strategists Jan Suraaj Party (JSP), which was dubbed the X factor in the Bihar election, failed to open its account in the 243-member assembly, despite contesting in 238 seats.

According to the Election Commission, most of the JSP candidates have secured less than 10 per cent of the total votes polled and have their deposit forfeited. The partys best performance came from Naveen Kumar Singh alias Abhay Singh, who secured the second spot from the Marhaura constituency. Jitendra Kumar Rai of the RJD won the seat by a margin of 27928 votes.

Meanwhile, the NDAs tsunami swept away the opposition Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, with the BJP emerging as the single-largest party with 89 seats, and the Janata Dal (United) finishing a close second with 85. The other allies of the ruling coalition also registered high strike rates.

The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats.

In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats.

In Mahagathbandhan, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation)  CPI(ML)(L)  two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP)  one and Communist Party of India (Marxist)  CPI(M) one seat.

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All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 17:33 IST

News politics On Nitish Kumars Oath-Taking Day, Prashant Kishor To Hold One-Day Fast In Patna After Poll Rout

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Samrat Choudhary, Vijay Sinha Likely To Be Retained As Bihar Deputy CMs In New NDA Govt

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:55 IST

The BJP may induct some fresh faces in the cabinet while Nitish Kumar's party is set to repeat its current ministers

The NDA won over 200 seats in the Bihar elections and decimated the Mahagathbandh to less than 40 seats. (Photo: PTI file)

BJPs Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Sinha are likely to be retained as deputy chief ministers of Bihar after the NDA got a landslide victory in the recently concluded assembly elections.

Choudhary was elected as the leader of the BJP legislature party and Vijay Sinha as his deputy leader.

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Choudhary thanked the BJP leadership for reposing faith in him. I thank the party leadership and all MLAs who have again given me a chance to lead the party. The BJP has expressed its faith in the BJP and the party will try to meet their expectations," he said.

Bihar Cabinet Formation: Suspense Over Who Gets What Ahead Of Thursday Swearing-In

The NDA returned to power, winning over 200 seats in the Bihar elections. The Mahagathbandhan, which made huge gains in the 2020 polls, was decimated to less than 40 seats.

The swearing-in ceremony of the new government will take place in historic Gandhi Maidan on November 20. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and several top NDA leaders, including Union Home Minister Amit Shah, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, and Union Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, are expected to attend the event. Chief Ministers of NDA-ruled states, including Chandrababu Naidu from Andhra Pradesh, Conrad Sangma from Meghalaya, and Nephiu Rio from Nagaland, are likely to be present there.

Bihar Government Formation

The BJP may induct some fresh faces in the cabinet while Nitish Kumars party is set to repeat its current ministers, news agency PTI reported, citing sources.

NDA allies Union minister Chirag Paswans LJP (RV), Jitan Ram Manjhis HAM-S, and Upendra Kushwahas RLM will also be part of the new cabinet.

The LJP (RV) is likely to get three berths in the new state cabinet while the HAM-S and RLM one berth each. A maximum of 16 ministers from the BJP and 14 ministers and Nitish Kumar from JD(U) will take oath on November 20," sources said.

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As talks are being held within the NDA camp to finalise the allocation of cabinet berths, the alliance is yet to come to a consensus over the post of Assembly Speaker as both the BJP and the JD(U) are staking their claim.

In the outgoing Assembly, BJP leader Nand Kishore Yadav served as Speaker, while JD(U)s Narendra Narayan Yadav held the position of Deputy Speaker.

About the Author Saurabh Verma Saurabh Verma covers general, national and international day-to-day news for News18.com as a Senior Sub-editor. He keenly observes politics. You can follow him on Twitter --twitter.com/saurabhkverma19

First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:23 IST

News politics Samrat Choudhary, Vijay Sinha Likely To Be Retained As Bihar Deputy CMs In New NDA Govt

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'Some Leaders Trying To Spoil': Shinde Takes Mahayuti 'Concerns' To Amit Shah, Nadda

Reported By :

Edited By: Oindrila Mukherjee



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 22:12 IST

Sources said Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde highlighted his concerns over Mahayuti unity ahead of civic polls, and that "some leaders are trying to undermine its prospects

Maharashtra deputy CM Eknath Shinde met BJP leadership, including president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, at New Delhi on November 19, 2025. (Image: News18)

A day after some Shiv Sena leaders reportedly expressed their concerns over political poaching, Maharashtra deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde met the BJP top brass, including president JP Nadda and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, in New Delhi on Wednesday.

According to sources, Shinde highlighted his concerns over Mahayuti unity ahead of the civic polls and some leaders" are trying to undermine the prospects of the ruling alliance especially amid the favourable atmosphere created after the NDAs sweeping victory in Bihar.

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Some Sena ministers reportedly skipped the weekly state cabinet meeting on Tuesday (November 18) in protest of recent defections from their party to the BJP in Kalyan-Dombivli. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the issue and is said to have warned the alliance partners regarding the rules of political poaching and instructed that they must abide by them going forward and not induct each others workers.

Amid these tensions, Shinde took his concerns directly to the central leadership, the sources said. During his meeting with Nadda and Shah, he expressed concern over internal actions jeopardising the alliances momentum, they said.

They said he highlighted that some leaders are trying to spoil this atmosphere", which is inadvertently giving the opposition an undeserved advantage". This atmosphere of internal discord is leading to unnecessary and misleading reportsappearing in the media, creating confusion among the public" while causing disorder among party workers and office-bearers", they added.

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Shinde warned that such behavior could create needless obstacles in the alliances winning momentum", they said. He stressed the need to curb self-serving behaviour, noting that some leaders are acting out of personal interest, and we must ensure that such behavior does not continue", they added.

He reportedly stressed that leaders within the alliance should also avoid criticising each other", and are expected to maintain restraint and adopt a harmonious approach" while making statements. The meeting served as a powerful projection of unity aimed at ensuring the Mahayuti alliance comprising the BJP, Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena, and Ajit Pawar-led NCP.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 22:12 IST

News politics 'Some Leaders Trying To Spoil': Shinde Takes Mahayuti 'Concerns' To Amit Shah, Nadda

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Indian Govt Warns Business Over Critical Windows Kernel Vulnerability: Know More

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:04 IST

Windows kernel is a major security issue because hackers can easily bypass the device and access the data.

The Indian govt has raised a critical warning for businesses

The Indian government has issued a critical warning for businesses in the country about a major Windows kernel vulnerability that can be exploited to target their data. The warning from the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team or CERT-In this week highlights the Windows versions, including the server platforms that can be targeted by hackers to exploit the issues that can cause major service disruption.

Windows Business Alert: What The Warning Says

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The security bulletin dated November 18, 2025 from CERT-In comes with a high severity rating and explains the issue and how it affects a wide range of Windows versions. This vulnerability in Microsoft Windows kernel exists due to concurrent execution using shared resources with improper synchronization (race condition). An attacker with local, low-privilege access can trigger a race condition in the kernel component by forcing multiple threads to access a shared resource concurrently without proper locking or synchronization."

What this alert says is that attackers can locally gain access to the device and use the vulnerability to gather data without needing to break any security measure. These tricks can be used to manipulate the data or cause a service disruption which can be costly for businesses.

The agency also points out that anybody using the Windows operating system can be targeted.

Windows Kernel Issue: Who Is Affected?

The list of Windows versions affected by the kernel risk are:

Windows 10 version 1809 from 10.0.17763.0 before 10.0.17763.8027

Windows 10 version 21H2 from 10.0.19044.0 before 10.0.19044.6575

Windows 10 version 22H2 from 10.0.19045.0 before 10.0.19045.6575

Windows 11 version 25H2 from 10.0.26200.0 before 10.0.26200.7171

Windows 11 version 22H3 from 10.0.22631.0 before 10.0.22631.6199

Windows 11 version 23H2 from 10.0.22631.0 before 10.0.22631.6199

Windows 11 version 24H2 from 10.0.26100.0 before 10.0.26100.7171

Windows server 2019 versions from 10.0.17763.0 before 10.0.17763.8027

Windows server 2019 (Server Core installation) versions from 10.0.17763.0 before 10.0.17763.8027

Windows server 2022 versions from 10.0.20348.0 before 10.0.20348.4405

Windows server 2025 versions from 10.0.26100.0 before 10.0.26100.7171

Windows server 2025 (Server Core installation) versions from 10.0.26100.0 before 10.0.26100.7171

Windows Server 2022, 23H2 (Server Core installation) versions from 10.0.25398.0 before 10.0.25398.1965

Microsoft has issued a timely update to fix these issues and close the gaps that could be exploited to steal data or cause further damage. You can install the new version for your Windows systems using these steps:

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Go to Settings on Windows PC

Check for new software update

Install the new version

Reboot the PC for the update to take effect

The government has also pointed out that the version build numbers could differ for companies so they should get with IT administrators before pulling the update process.

About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and ... Read More

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:04 IST

News tech Indian Govt Warns Business Over Critical Windows Kernel Vulnerability: Know More

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Jio Gemini Offer Update: Now All Jio 5G Users Get Gemini 3 AI Model Access

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 10:39 IST

Jio 5G users can now access the latest Gemini 3 AI model from Google with their free 18 month offer from the company.

Jio 5G users in India can now access the latest Gemini 3 version

The Jio 5G unlimited plan is now offering the Gemini offer free of cost for all the users and not just limited to any age group. Thats not all, Jio 5G users can unlock the latest Gemini 3 AI model with the free offer, as announced on Wednesday.

Jio launched the Gemini free offer for users between 18 years and 25 years but now anybody with the 5G unlimited plan can get the full suite of Gemini AI Pro features along with the latest AI model from Google.

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Jio Gemini Free Offer Big Update

Jio 5G unlimited plan now shifts from the youth-only focus and extends its availability to all Jio 5G unlimited user base in the country. The other big news is that Googles latest Gemini 3 AI model is rolling out for all these users from this week itself. The new offer will be available starting November 19, 2025.

Jio Gemini AI Pro Offer: How The Deal Works

To get the Jio Gemini AI Pro offer you need to head over to the MyJio app where you will see the claim now banner. If you are using a Jio 5G plan of Rs 349 or more, the Gemini AI Pro offer will automatically reflect in your account and the 18 month benefit will be available right away.

Jio Gemini AI Pro Offer: What You Get

Gemini AI Pro free offer in India is available for Jio 5G users and you need the Jio Unlimited 5G plan (Rs 349 or higher) to unlock the Gemini AI Pro benefits for 18 months which is worth around Rs 35,100 for the users.

With Gemini AI Pro offer you can access the following features and benefits:

Gemini 3 model in the Gemini app

Higher limits to generate images and videos with Nano Banana and Veo 3.1 models

Expanded access to NotebookLM for study and research

Cloud storage of 2TB that works across Google Photos, Gmail, Drive and even storage backup for WhatsApp chats on Android devices

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The Gemini AI Pro offer is not the only AI plan available in the country. ChatGPT Go is also available for free for 12 months, Perplexity has a deal with Airtel for its Pro version as well.

Disclaimer: Network18 and TV18  the companies that operate news18.com  are controlled by Independent Media Trust, of which Reliance Industries is the sole beneficiary.

About the Author S Aadeetya S Aadeetya, Special Correspondent at News18 Tech, accidentally got into journalism 10 years ago, and since then, has been part of established media houses covering the latest trends in technology and ... Read More

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 10:39 IST

News tech Jio Gemini Offer Update: Now All Jio 5G Users Get Gemini 3 AI Model Access

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The occupation authorities of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions have banned the sale, installation and use of television satellite equipment that can "catch" Ukrainian TV channels, the press service of the Main Intelligence Directorate of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine (GUR) has said.

"The occupation authorities have resorted to another series of measures to restrict the access of Ukrainians in the temporarily occupied territories to Ukrainian and international sources of information. In particular, the leaders of the occupation administrations of the Donetsk and Luhansk regions have signed decrees banning the sale, installation and use of television satellite equipment that can "catch" Ukrainian TV channels," the GUR said in a message on its Telegram channel on Wednesday.

It is reported that the decree came into force on October 10, and the illegal confiscation of satellite equipment from the population was planned to be completed by November 1.

"In addition, the Kremlin has ordered to block Russian SIM cards for civilians who have not linked their passport data to them. This decision is aimed at accelerating forced "passportization" and putting additional pressure on Ukrainians who refuse to receive Russian passports. In the event of refusal to obtain passports, residents of temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine will completely lose access to mobile communications," the GUR statement states.

The GUR emphasizes that the Kremlin also seeks to control information resources. The occupiers have ordered the authors of Telegram channels in the temporarily occupied territories that have more than 10,000 subscribers to add a special bot from Roskomnadzor (Russian Federal Service for Supervision of Communications, Information Technology and Mass Media). This bot, having administrator rights, can edit and delete publications, as well as block comments. Thus, any messages that highlight corruption in the occupation administrations or criticize the Russian government can be immediately deleted or changed.

"The purpose of such measures is to create an information "bubble" in the temporarily occupied territories, where access to Ukrainian and international resources is blocked, and any information not controlled by the Kremlin is immediately censored. The GUR of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine reminds: obstructing Ukrainians access to information is unacceptable, and those guilty of these crimes will bear fair responsibility," the military intelligence service emphasized.
8 Years After Crime, DNA Breakthrough Links Indian Man To Murder Of Andhra Woman, Her Child In US

Curated By :



Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:42 IST

Accused Hameed fled to India shortly after the killings in March 2017 and has remained there since.

Indian Man Nazeer Hameed (Left) Charged in 2017 New Jersey Double Murder

Authorities in the United States have filed charges against an Indian national, more than eight years after Andhra Pradesh woman Sasikala Narra and her six-year-old son Anish were found brutally murdered in their New Jersey apartment.

The breakthrough came after investigators matched DNA from a company-issued laptop to blood found at the crime scene.

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DNA lead reopens cold case

Prosecutors identified the suspect as Nazeer Hameed, a colleague of Sasikalas husband at Cognizant Technologies. Hameed lived within walking distance of the victims residence in Maple Shade, New Jersey, at the time of the murders.

According to Burlington County investigators, Hameed fled to India shortly after the killings in March 2017 and has remained there since. He was working in the US on a visa during the period of the crime.

A DNA sample recently extracted from Hameeds company-issued laptop, sent to US authorities after a court order, matched an unidentified blood droplet recovered from the crime scene. This match allowed prosecutors to formally charge him with murder and related offences, and initiate extradition proceedings.

What do we know about the 2017 crime?

On 23 March 2017, Sasikalas husband, Hanu Narra, returned home to find his wife and young son stabbed to death. Both victims suffered multiple stab wounds and had defensive injuries, indicating a violent struggle.

During the investigation, police discovered a bloodstain at the scene that did not match any member of the Narra family. This discovery was critical in ruling out Hanu Narra early in the inquiry.

Hameed was identified as a person of interest after authorities found he had previously been accused of stalking Hanu. He returned to India six months after the murders but continued working remotely for Cognizant.

When approached in India, Hameed refused to provide a DNA sample to investigators. Authorities then obtained a court order in 2024 compelling Cognizant to surrender his company laptop.

Forensic specialists extracted a DNA contributor from the device, leading to the conclusive match linking Hameed to the blood collected at the crime scene.

Investigators believe Hameed used his technological expertise to conceal digital traces of his alleged involvement.

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Extradition efforts underway

Police say the motive behind the killings remains unclear but suggest a possible personal vendetta against Hanu Narra. With charges now filed, US authorities are working with the Department of Justice to secure Hameeds extradition from India.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:42 IST

News world 8 Years After Crime, DNA Breakthrough Links Indian Man To Murder Of Andhra Woman, Her Child In US

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At White House Dinner, Trump Designates Saudi Arabia A Major Non-NATO Ally

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 07:08 IST

He added that the declaration was being revealed for the first time at the princes request.

US President Donald Trump (R) shakes hands with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman during an official dinner in the East Room of the White House in Washington. (AFP)

US President Donald Trump on Tuesday said he would designate Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, making the announcement during a gala dinner at the White House hosted for Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

Tonight, Im pleased to announce that were taking our military cooperation to even greater heights by formally designating Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally, which is something that is very important to them," Trump said while addressing guests at the event.

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.@POTUS: Tonight, Im pleased to announce that we are taking our military cooperation to even greater heights by formally designating Saudi Arabia as a major non-NATO ally." pic.twitter.com/9n4HzMmuMG Rapid Response 47 (@RapidResponse47) November 19, 2025

He added that the declaration was being revealed for the first time at the princes request. And Im just telling you now for the first time, because they wanted to keep a little secret for tonight," Trump said. Only 19 countries have previously received the designation.

US, Saudi Arabia Approve Nuclear Deal, F-35 Jets Sale

During the White House dinner, the United States and Saudi Arabia finalised agreements covering civil nuclear cooperation and the sale of advanced American F-35 fighter jets, the administration said on Tuesday as Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visited Washington.

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According to a statement from the White House, the two sides signed a joint declaration" on civil nuclear energy that builds the legal foundation for a decades-long, multi-billion-dollar nuclear energy partnership" while adhering to strong nonproliferation standards."

The administration added that President Donald Trump has also approved a major defense sale package," which includes the future supply of F-35 stealth aircraft to the kingdom.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 07:03 IST

News world At White House Dinner, Trump Designates Saudi Arabia A Major Non-NATO Ally

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Bangladesh NSA Rahman Meets Counterpart Ajit Doval In Delhi, Invites Him To Visit Dhaka

Curated By :

News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 21:40 IST

The NSAs of India and Bangladesh met on the sidelines of the the National Security Advisors' Conference of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in New Delhi.

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During a meeting in Delhi, Bangladesh NSA Rahman extended an invitation to Ajit Doval to visit Dhaka, with both sides discussing security cooperation and regional issues. (IMAGE: X/REUTERS)

Bangladeshi National Security Advisor Khalilur Rahman invited his Indian counterpart Ajit Doval to Bangladesh following a meeting between the two in New Delhi.

Rahman is in New Delhi as part of the seventh edition of the NSA-level meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC).

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Bangladesh delegation to the Seventh NSA-level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), led by the National Security Adviser, Dr Khalilur Rahman, met with the National Security Adviser of India, Mr Ajit Doval, and his team today in Delhi," the Bangladeshi readout of the meeting said.

They discussed work of CSC and key bilateral issues. Dr. Rahman invited Mr. Doval to visit Bangladesh at his convenience," it further added.

The meeting comes at a time of strained IndiaBangladesh ties following Sheikh Hasinas ouster and death sentence. It is also the highest-level security engagement since the interim government led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus took charge in August 2024.

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A key point of friction remains Bangladeshs formal request that India extradite Sheikh Hasina, who was handed a death sentence by a Bangladeshi tribunal.

On Monday, the Ministry of External Affairs said India had taken note of the verdict delivered by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal and reiterated that New Delhi remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 21:36 IST

News world Bangladesh NSA Rahman Meets Counterpart Ajit Doval In Delhi, Invites Him To Visit Dhaka

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Bangladesh Tribunal That Put Sheikh Hasina On Death Row To Seek Interpol's Help For Extradition

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 19:45 IST

The Bangladesh tribunal sentenced Hasina to death for crimes against humanity linked to the 2024 quota reform riots.

Sheikh Hasina was once arrested in 2007 by Bangladeshs military-backed caretaker government on graft and extortion charges during its so-called anti-corruption drive. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE)

The prosecution-side of the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka said it will seek the assistance of Interpol (International Criminal Police Organization) to secure the extradition of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal so they can be executed following their conviction for crimes against humanity over the riots following the student-led July 2024 quota reform protests.

According to Bangladeshi news outlet The Financial Express, prosecutor Gazi MH Tamim said, a day after the verdict was delivered, that preparations are underway to request a fresh Interpol Red Notice for Hasina and her former cabinet colleague based on the Tribunals conviction warrant.

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The Bangladeshi National Central Bureau (NCB) had earlier requested Interpol to issue a Red Notice in April against 12 individuals, including former prime minister Hasina, former road transport and bridges minister and Awami League general secretary Obaidul Quader, and former home minister Kamal.

Both the accused are absconding, and an application has already been submitted to Interpol, along with the Tribunals arrest warrant, seeking issuance of a Red Notice. Now we will ask the organisation, through the foreign ministry, to issue a new Red Notice based on the conviction warrant instead of the arrest warrant," the prosecutor was quoted as saying by the Bangladeshi outlet.

A Bangladesh court sentenced ousted prime minister Sheikh Hasina to be hanged for crimes against humanity on Monday.

Hasina, 78, defied court orders that she return from India to attend her trial about whether she ordered a deadly crackdown against a student-led uprising last year that eventually ousted her.

The former leader was found guilty on three counts: incitement, order to kill, and inaction to prevent the atrocities, the judge said.

We have decided to inflict her with only one sentence  that is, sentence of death."

Kamal was also sentenced to death in absentia after being found guilty on four counts of crimes against humanity.

Ex-police chief Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun, who was in court and had pleaded guilty, was sentenced to five years imprisonment.

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Hasina, who was assigned a state-appointed lawyer for the trial, called the verdict biased and politically motivated" in a statement issued from in India, where she fled to after irate mobs threatened to kill her in August 2024 when they took over the prime ministerial residence, the Ganabhaban.

Its guilty verdict against me was a foregone conclusion," Hasina said.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Dhaka, Bangladesh

First Published: November 19, 2025, 19:43 IST

News world Bangladesh Tribunal That Put Sheikh Hasina On Death Row To Seek Interpol's Help For Extradition

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Being Treated Disrespectfully: Pope Leo On Trumps Treatment Of Immigrants In Fresh Criticism

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 23:34 IST

Pope Leo criticised Donald Trumps immigration policies, urging humane treatment for immigrants and questioning alignment with Catholic teachings, as reported by The Guardian.

Elected in May after the death of Pope Francis, Pope Leo has in recent weeks made several critical remarks on Trump's immigration policies. (AP File)

Pope Leo has criticised US President Donald Trumps immigration policies, saying foreigners in the US are being treated in an extremely disrespectful way".

I think we have to look for ways of treating people humanely, treating people with the dignity that they have. If people are in the United States illegally, there are ways to treat that. There are courts; theres a system of justice," Leo told reporters on Tuesday.

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He pointed out that every country has a right to determine who and how and when people enter".

But when people are living good lives, and many of them for 10, 15, 20 years, to treat them in a way that is extremely disrespectful, to say the least  and theres been some violence, unfortunately  I think that the bishops have been very clear in what they said," he added.

According to The Guardian, Leo, the first US pontiff in the history of Catholic church, made the remarks in response to questions about a statement adopted last week during a special assembly of US bishops that criticised the Trump administrations mass deportations and lamented the fear and anxiety caused by immigration raids.

Elected in May after the death of Pope Francis, Leo has in recent weeks made several critical remarks on Trumps immigration policies.

In September, Pope Leo called the USs move against immigrants inhuman" and in October he questioned whether Trumps policies were in line with the Catholic churchs teachings.

Someone who says I am against abortion but I am in agreement with the inhuman treatment of immigrants in the United States, I dont know if thats pro-life," he said.

The Guardian quoted federal court records stating that more than 97% of immigrants detained in the Trump administrations Operation Midway Blitz" in Chicago had no criminal conviction.

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The record was released on Friday contradicting the Trump administrations portrayal of the immigrants.

The DHS assistant secretary Tricia Mclaughlin called the Chicago data horrendously misleading" in a statement emailed to The Guardian.

Location : Vatican City

First Published: November 19, 2025, 23:34 IST

News world Being Treated Disrespectfully: Pope Leo On Trumps Treatment Of Immigrants In Fresh Criticism

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'Piggy, Terrible Reporter': Trump Lashes Out At Women Journalists Over Questions On Epstein

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News18.com

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:13 IST

Donald Trump clashed with a reporter during a White House meeting with Saudi Crown Prince, days after he called another reporter piggy during an exchange about Jeffrey Epstein.

Donald Trump answers questions from reporters during a meeting with the White House task force (Photo: AP)

Donald Trump launched a fresh attack on the media on Tuesday, targeting an ABC News reporter just days after calling another woman journalist piggy" during a separate exchange about convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

Trumps latest clash occurred in the Oval Office during a meeting with Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

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The President threatened ABCs broadcast license after reporter Mary Bruce asked a series of questions about whether the Trump family businesss dealings with the Saudis posed a conflict of interest, and later questioned the crown prince over the 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The earlier incident, involving Bloomberg reporter Catherine Lucey, took place aboard Air Force One on Friday but only surfaced on social media on Tuesday.

Quiet. Quiet, piggy," Trump told Lucey, pointing at her, after she asked why he would not release material on Epstein, if nothing is incriminating in the files."

CNN journalist Jake Tapper later called Trumps remark disgusting and completely unacceptable."

During a gaggle on Air Force One this Friday, a female White House correspondent for Bloomberg began asking President Trump a question about the Epstein files, when the president pointed at her and said, Quiet. Quiet Piggy," before moving on to another reporters question. pic.twitter.com/mpwVcMKdCU CBS News (@CBSNews) November 19, 2025

In the Oval Office, Bruce asked Prince Mohammed, US intelligence concluded that you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist, 9/11 families are furious that you are here in the Oval Office. Why should Americans trust you?"

Trump cut in angrily, saying, ABC fake news. One of the worst in the business."

Trump insisted he has nothing to do" with the Trump Organisation, which is run by his two eldest sons, and noted that the company had just announced a deal with a Saudi developer for a Maldives resort.

He also defended Prince Mohammed, telling Bruce, You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that."

Tensions rose when Bruce later asked about Epstein, as Congress voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to order the release of files related to the financier, who died by suicide in 2019 while awaiting trial.

Trump shot back, saying, Its not the question that I mind. Its your attitude. I think you are a terrible reporter."

He added that he had nothing to do" with Epstein, calling the scandal a hoax," and telling Bruce, And your crappy company is one of the perpetrators."

I have nothing to do with Jeffrey Epstein."Donald Trump replies to a reporter, adding: Youre a terrible person, and a terrible reporter" Live updates: https://t.co/N14UKEJ0HA  Sky 501, Virgin 602, Freeview 233 and YouTube pic.twitter.com/7krinICQVS  Sky News (@SkyNews) November 18, 2025

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The President then urged the head of the US broadcast regulator to look at" the possibility of stripping ABC of its license, before pointing at Bruce and declaring, No more questions from you."

ALSO READ | Khashoggis Killing Destroyed My Life: Widow Expresses Pain As Saudi Prince Meets Trump

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:09 IST

News world 'Piggy, Terrible Reporter': Trump Lashes Out At Women Journalists Over Questions On Epstein

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He Made A Mistake But: China Teen's Leniency Plea For Father Who Electrocuted Mother

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 20:01 IST

The case has sparked a wide debate on Chinas social media after a Hebei court publicly released its judgment in early November.

The case has sparked a wide debate on Chinas social media after a Hebei court publicly released its judgment in early November. (Representational image)

A teenage girl in northern China has written to a court asking for leniency for her father, who electrocuted his wife (her mother) while she was taking a shower.

The case has sparked a wide debate on Chinas social media after a Hebei court publicly released its judgment in early November. The 36-year-old man, Yang, was sentenced to life in prison for the March 2023 killing of his wife, Yin, Red Star News reported.

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Whats The Case?

The couple got married in 2010. After four years, their relationship worsened and they got divorced between 2014 and 2017, but later reconciled. The couple have a daughter and a son, who are 14 and two years old, respectively.

According to Yang, constant conflicts with his wife Yin pushed him to a breaking point. She reportedly did not get along with his mother. He also suspected she was having an affair, South China Morning Post reported.

Things got so bad that he once went to the hospital to check his mental condition.

During the consultation, the doctor called Yin and asked her to give Yang family warmth".

However, after Yang returned home, Yin mocked him and even told him, If you really want to die, find a quiet corner to die".

Yang said it was at that moment that he developed the idea of killing Yin. In March 2023, he electrified a metal tube on the water heater while Yin was showering. After she died, he placed her body on their bed and surrendered the next morning. His parents now care for the two children.

The Hebei court ruled that the murder was intentional. Prosecutors proposed a suspended death sentence. However, the court chose a lighter punishment to show the warmth of the judicial authorities".

Daughters Leniency Request For Father

However, Yangs daughter wrote to the court asking for leniency.

I know my father has made a mistake. But, he has always been a kind-hearted person, and he performs well at home. I hope he can come back home to help with me and my brothers growth," the news outlet quoted the girl as saying.

The court then sentenced Yang to life in prison because of the situation with his children.

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After Yang finishes serving the jail sentence, the two children will probably have grown up and set up their own families. But this life sentence at least could give them some mental comfort during their long-time waiting for their father," the court said.

The court said it realised that the sentence would be opposed by Yins family, adding that it hoped they could understand their good intentions.

About the Author Shobhit Gupta Shobhit Gupta is a sub-editor at News18.com and covers India and International news. He is interested in day to day political affairs in India and geopolitics. He earned his BA Journalism (Hons) degre... Read More

Location : China

First Published: November 19, 2025, 20:01 IST

News world He Made A Mistake But: China Teen's Leniency Plea For Father Who Electrocuted Mother

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India Should Extradite Hasina For Crimes Against Humanity; Issue Won't Affect Bilateral Ties: Yunus Aide | Exclusive

Reported By :

CNN-News18

Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 23:06 IST

Shafiqul Alam also said that with the Awami League banned, voters will seek alternative candidates in next year's Bangladesh elections

Bangladesh's former PM Sheikh Hasina (L) and interim leader Muhammad Yunus (R). (File image: AFP)

The fragile diplomatic landscape between India and Bangladesh is facing severe strain after the International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) in Dhaka delivered a verdict convicting former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and sentencing her to death. The interim government in Dhaka has intensified pressure on New Delhi, formally demanding the immediate extradition of Hasina, whom it labels a mass murderer" with blood on her hands" for alleged crimes against humanity. Citing a binding 2013 treaty and an independent UN probe detailing direct orders for lethal force on protesters, Dhaka has indicated that a refusal to hand over the former premier will be considered an unfriendly act". Despite this, Bangladeshs chief adviser maintains the country seeks a good relationship with India, while vowing to proceed with free and fair elections. Shafiqul Alam, press secretary to chief adviser Muhammad Yunus, discussed all these issues and more in an exhaustive interview with CNN-News18 on Wednesday.

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Yesterday, the International Crimes Tribunal convicted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, and immediately after, Bangladesh requested India to extradite her. Bangladesh stated that if India does not hand over Hasina, it will be considered an unfriendly act. Could you discuss Bangladeshs position on this matter and the 2013 treaty between the two countries?

I dont know; the foreign ministry can provide more information. However, we have stated that India is a good friend, and we want them to extradite her due to the well-documented crimes against humanity she committed. The UN conducted an independent probe into the massacres she ordered in July and August, resulting in a 127-page report detailing her direct orders for lethal force on protesters, including children. She is a mass murderer and should be returned for a fair trial, with the option to appeal the verdict.

Awami League leaders claim that if this case had been handled by the International Court of Justice, the verdict would have been different, calling the tribunal a kangaroo court. They say there was no representation for Hasina in court, and the verdict was given in absentia.

No one prevented them from hiring a lawyer for her. They could have easily done so, as her party members are in Bangladesh. The crimes are well-documented, with hundreds of thousands of videos depicting the massacres. An international rights group created a 15-minute video based on over 6,000 mobile footages, showing how the massacre unfolded. The UN also conducted an independent investigation, concluding that she ordered these murders. The findings are accessible in a report.

Sheikh Hasina claims it is a political witch hunt, and there is a provision in the treaty allowing extradition refusal on political grounds. How will you convince India that this is a genuine case?

The UN carried out the investigation independently, and international media, such as the BBC and Al Jazeera, forensically examined her audio records. It is well-documented that she ordered the massacres. We invited the UN to investigate, and they did a splendid job. The report is available for anyone to read and judge for themselves.

Given the campaign against her party and her leaders arrests, how do you expect Hasina to return to Bangladesh for a fair trial?

We have ensured she will receive a fair trial. Her partys activities are banned due to their incitement of violence, not the party itself. They carried out acts of violence, including throwing Molotov cocktails at churches and schools. She claims innocence; she should come back and face the court.

Is Muhammad Yunus planning a global diplomatic campaign to extradite Sheikh Hasina? Have you received any response from the Indian government?

We want India to extradite her according to the law. We aim to resolve this through diplomatic channels, as India is a friendly neighbour. Our case was made clear in the statement yesterday.

Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri recently stated that this is a judicial and legal process requiring consultation between both sides. What is your view on his statement?

We believe Hasina is a mass murderer with blood on her hands and should be extradited. Her crimes are evident to anyone aware of last years events. She is known as the butcher of Bengal for her actions.

Will this situation affect India-Bangladesh relations?

I dont think so. We aim for a good relationship with India, sharing historical, linguistic, and cultural ties. India is a growing economy, and we want to enhance trade with it. Our chief advisor has emphasised the desire for better relations with India.

India wants free, fair, and inclusive elections in Bangladesh. Can you assure India that the elections will be conducted in such a manner?

Yes, the Bangladesh elections will be free, fair, credible, inclusive, and participatory, with a festive turnout.

Will the Awami League be allowed to contest elections, given their registration has been suspended?

The voters will seek alternative candidates to exercise their democratic rights. Recent student council votes had an 80% turnout, indicating high voter participation.

There were visuals of bulldozers outside Sheikh Hasinas residence and reports of plans to demolish Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans monument. Does your government support these demands?

The police dispersed the crowd, so nothing happened. We do not support such demands.

What is your governments position on Sheikh Mujibur Rahmans legacy?

He is a respected leader and a major architect of our independence. While the Bangladeshi people respect him, his daughter tried to deify him, which led to public anger and the demolition of his statues. We do not support illegal activities.

Muhammad Yunus was initially supported as a modern technocratic figure but now faces concerns about extremist forces in Bangladesh. What steps is your government taking to maintain a secular society?

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Our record speaks for itself. Over the past 15 months, we have ensured there is no place for extremism in Bangladeshi society. There has been misinformation from Indian newspapers claiming Bangladesh is becoming an Islamist extremist nation, which is untrue. Bangladesh remains a secular country, just as India remains a secular country despite radical language from some leaders.

About the Author Siddhant Mishra Siddhant Mishra is a Senior Special Correspondent at CNN-News18, covering foreign affairs and international relations. With over 12 years of experience in journalism, he has also reported extensively ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 23:06 IST

News world India Should Extradite Hasina For Crimes Against Humanity; Issue Won't Affect Bilateral Ties: Yunus Aide | Exclusive

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Pakistan Court Asks Police To Stop Harassing Indian Woman Who Married Muslim Near Lahore

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 12:02 IST

An Indian Sikh woman who converted to Islam and married a Pakistani man she knew online secured court protection after alleging police harassment in Sheikhupura.

Indian woman in Pakistan (Social Media)

The Lahore High Court in Pakistan on Tuesday directed the police to stop harassing" 48-year-old Sarabjeet Kaur, the Indian Sikh woman who embraced Islam and married a local man she had been acquainted with on social media for nearly a decade.

Kaur had travelled to Pakistan earlier this month as part of a group of around 2,000 Sikh pilgrims who entered through the Wagah border to participate in events marking Guru Nanaks birth anniversary.

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While the pilgrims returned to India on November 13, Kaur was reported missing.

According to a senior Lahore police official, Kaur married Nasir Hussain of Sheikhupura district, about 50 km from Lahore, on November 4, a day after her arrival in Pakistan.

When the pilgrimage group proceeded to Nankana Sahib the same day, she did not join them and instead went to Sheikhupura with Hussain.

Kaur and Hussain later approached the Lahore High Court, alleging that police had carried out an unlawful raid at their residence in Farooqabad, Sheikhupura, and were pressuring them to end their marriage.

Justice Farooq Haider instructed the police not to intimidate the couple.

In their petition, Kaur stated that a police officer caused undue harassment" and attempted to force them to dissolve their marriage.

She said her husband is a Pakistani national and that she has contacted the Indian mission to seek a visa extension and apply for Pakistani citizenship.

A video circulating on social media shows Kaur, who was given the Muslim name Noor ahead of the nikah, saying she had known Hussain for nine years through Facebook.

I am a divorcee and wanted to marry Hussain. Therefore, I came here for the purpose," she said, adding that both of them were being harassed by police and unknown people."

She insisted she happily married Hussain."

Kaur hails from Amanipur village in Punjabs Kapurthala district.

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Earlier reports had indicated that Kaurs former husband had been living abroad for several years. She is the mother of two sons.

ALSO READ | 8-Month-Pregnant Indian Woman Killed In Sydney Car Crash, Teen Driver Charged

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 12:00 IST

News world Pakistan Court Asks Police To Stop Harassing Indian Woman Who Married Muslim Near Lahore

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Jaishankar Inaugurates Consulates In Russias Kazan, Yekaterinburg: Catalysts For Boosting Ties

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Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 03:03 IST

S Jaishankar inaugurated Indian consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan, aiming to boost IndiaRussia trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 and strengthen ties in multiple sectors.

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Jaishankar said the new consulates in Yekaterinburg and Kazan will boost trade, support over 10,000 Indian students in the region and deepen IndiaRussia cooperation across economic, scientific and cultural sectors. (IMAGE:X)

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Wednesday inaugurated two new Indian consulates in Russia, calling their opening a catalyst" that will help push bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030. India has now added Consulates General in Yekaterinburg and Kazan, expanding its diplomatic footprint beyond St Petersburg and Vladivostok, the two cities that previously hosted Indian consulates, according to the Indian Embassys website.

The minister said more than 30,000 Indian students currently study in Russia and noted that around 10,000 of them are located in regions that will now be covered by the new missions. Russias Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko, Indias Ambassador Vinay Kumar, local officials from Kazan and Yekaterinburg, and members of the Indian community attended the opening ceremony.

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This is a very important day in the diplomatic history of India in the Russian Federation," Jaishankar said, recalling his earlier postings in Moscow. He added that consistent work has been underway to establish these consulates," and stressed that India recognises the support received from the Russian government."

According to him, the new missions will not only enhance our diplomatic presence" in Russia but act as a catalyst" to deepen trade, tourism, and cooperation in economic, scientific, technological, academic and cultural sectors. The consulates will contribute to our joint efforts in increasing our bilateral trade to USD 100 billion by 2030 as envisaged by the leaders," he said.

Delighted to inaugurate Consulates General of India in Yekaterinburg and Kazan, alongside DFM Andrey Rudenko, Amb Vinay Kumar and representatives from Sverdlovsk and Tatarstan.Confident that the establishment of the new Consulates will boost trade, tourism, economic, https://t.co/uluc9kqm8O pic.twitter.com/oYNy1hSnqq  Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) November 19, 2025

The minister highlighted Yekaterinburgs role as the third capital of Russia" and a gateway to Siberia," underlining its prominence in heavy engineering, gem cutting, defence manufacturing, metallurgy, nuclear fuel, chemicals and medical equipment. He said the consulate there would help strengthen technological, scientific, economic and trade collaborations between Indian and Russian industries."

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On Kazan, which hosted the 2024 BRICS Summit attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Jaishankar described it as a major cultural and ethnic hub and a bridge between Russia and the rest of Asia." He said the consulate will promote people-to-people ties, including cultural exchanges and ITEC programmes. The city, he noted, is well known for oil production and refining, fertilisers, automobiles, defence manufacturing, pharmaceuticals and electrical equipment.

I am confident that with the opening of the two new consulates, there will be a further strengthening of IndiaRussia ties and this will surely mark a new phase in our relationship," he said. Kazan, the capital of Tatarstan, sits on the Volga and is considered Russias gateway to Asia, known for petrochemicals, automobiles, aircraft manufacturing, and scientific and educational institutions.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Moscow, Russia

First Published: November 20, 2025, 02:55 IST

News world Jaishankar Inaugurates Consulates In Russias Kazan, Yekaterinburg: Catalysts For Boosting Ties

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The National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) is currently conducting searches at Naftogaz Ukrainy, MP Oleksiy Honcharenko reported on Telegram on Wednesday.

"Investigative actions began one and a half hours ago," he wrote.

According to the MP, the search is being conducted, among other things, at the home of the companys security director, Vitaliy Brovko, whose phone has already been seized.

Before joining Naftogaz CEO Serhiy Koretskys team, Brovko worked in the Prosecutor Generals Office, where he was responsible for overseeing the State Bureau of Investigation (SBI).
'Khashoggi's Killing Destroyed My Life': Widow Expresses Pain As Saudi Prince Meets Trump

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:04 IST

Hanan Elatr Khashoggi said that "it's very painful for me" to see Prince Mohammed visit Washington.

US President Donald Trump shakes hands with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed Bin Salman. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE)

The widow of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, who was murdered in 2018 by Saudi agents, said it was very painful" that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visited the United States on Tuesday.

US President Donald Trump hosted a dinner at the White House for the Saudi princes first visit to Washington since Khashoggi was killed inside the kingdoms consulate in Istanbul.

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The meeting between the pair covered key regional and economic issues, including Saudi Arabias potential accession to the Abraham Accords and massive commercial investments in the United States. Discussions also included the sale of F-35 fighter jets to Riyadh.

Talking to CNN, Hanan Elatr Khashoggi said that its very painful for me" to see Prince Mohammed visit Washington.

It will be better if Jamal was here and receiving the crown prince by himself, and meet him and share with him his vision and mission and all his ideas," she said in the interview aired Monday.

Before his death, Jamal actually was waiting for an invitation from the crown prince and wished to have the space to be heard," she added. He had good ideas for his country."

Hanan Elatr Kashoggi said she had written to Trump asking for his help in reaching a financial settlement with Prince Mohammed.

The killing destroyed my life", she said, adding, I hope they look at the American values of human rights and (democracy)" besides any deal and selling weapons.

There is something missing," she added, pointing to the lack of real justice."

The killing of Jamal Khashoggi  a US resident and critic of the Saudi regime  had chilled relations between the two countries after US intelligence suggested that Prince Mohammed approved the operation to murder him, an allegation which Saudi authorities deny.

His dismembered body has never been found and Prince Mohammed was never among those sanctioned by Washington.

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Following an opaque trial in Saudi Arabia, five Saudis were sentenced to death and three others to prison terms. The death sentences have since been commuted.

(With agency inputs)

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

Location : Saudi Arabia

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:03 IST

News world 'Khashoggi's Killing Destroyed My Life': Widow Expresses Pain As Saudi Prince Meets Trump

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Bin Laden Wanted To Destroy US-Saudi Ties: Crown Prince Salman On 9/11 Question At White House

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 09:49 IST

Saudi Arabia is doing its best not to let it happen again, the Crown Prince assured the Americans, with the survivors still furious over his presence at the Oval Office.

US President Donald Trump (R) shakes hands with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman during an official dinner in the East Room of the White House in Washington. (AFP)

Osama bin Laden used Saudi nationals in the 9/11 attacks to deliberately damage USSaudi relations, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman insisted at the White House, as families of the victims demanded accountability during his visit. He assured Americans that Saudi Arabia is doing its best" to ensure such an incident never happens again," even as survivors expressed anger over his presence at the Oval Office.

The Crown Prince told US media that bin Ladens objective was to rupture ties between Washington and Riyadh. Responding to questions about the concerns raised by victims families, he said Saudi Arabia had taken extensive measures to prevent any repeat of the 2001 attacks.

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Also Read: He Knew Nothing: Trump Defends Saudi Prince Over Khashoggis Murder, Dismisses US Intel

Reporters also pressed him on Saudi Arabias role in the 9/11 plot and the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi as he and President Donald Trump addressed the media after unveiling a civilian nuclear cooperation agreement and a deal involving the sale of F-35 fighter jets.

MBS reiterated that the 9/11 conspiracy was designed to undermine USSaudi relations, arguing that accepting any other interpretation would serve the very purpose Osama bin Laden intended."

I feel painful about the families of my wife and I that live in America. But we must focus on reality. Based on CIA documents, Osama Bin Laden used Saudi people at that event for one main purpose: to destroy this relation, to destroy the American-Saudi relation," he said.

Also Read: Khashoggis Killing Destroyed My Life: Widow Expresses Pain As Saudi Prince Meets Trump

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He added that this was precisely the purpose of 9/11". So, whoever buys that, that means they are helping Osama bin Ladens purpose of destroying this relation. He knows that a strong relation between America and Saudi Arabia is bad for extremism. Its bad for terrorism," Salman said.

During the gala dinner, President Trump announced that he was designating Saudi Arabia as one of only 20 major non-NATO allies worldwide. Im just telling you now for the first time, because they wanted to keep a little secret for tonight," Trump said.

About the Author Abhro Banerjee Covering day-to-day national and international news for the last nine years across print and digital. Associated with News18.com since 2022, covering innumerable big and small events, including electi... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 09:24 IST

News world Bin Laden Wanted To Destroy US-Saudi Ties: Crown Prince Salman On 9/11 Question At White House

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Man Dies After Drowning, Panicked Friends Take Body Home And Lay Him In Bed Without Calling Help

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 20:03 IST

One of the friends admitted to panicking and, instead of seeking medical assistance or calling the police, chose to transport the body home on a motorcycle

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Three days later the family discovered he had not been asleep, but had in fact died. (Representational image)

A 38-year-old man from China died after drowning in a reservoir, but instead of notifying the authorities, two of his friends took his body home and placed it in his bed, making it appear as though he was simply sleeping.

The tragic incident took place on September 4 in Sichuan province, where the deceased man, whose name has not been disclosed, had been invited to swim at a local reservoir by a villager and his uncle.

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According to local Chinese media, the man entered the water and drowned before the two others tried to rescue him. However, by the time they brought him back to shore, he had already died, the South China Morning Post reported.

One of the individuals, identified as Tao, admitted to panicking and, rather than seeking medical assistance or calling the police, decided to transport the body home on a motorcycle. Surveillance footage from their route shows the two men riding with the deceased wedged between them, with the man at the back holding his neck in an attempt to prop him upright.

Upon returning to the village, the two men placed the body in the deceaseds bed and left, not informing the family of the tragedy. It was only three days later that the family discovered he had not been asleep, but had in fact died.

During those three days, the two men had interacted with various family members but chose not to mention the drowning.

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The family became aware of the situation when they found that surveillance footage from the reservoir had already been overwritten. Authorities have ruled out foul play and concluded that the two men will not face criminal charges. However, Chinese law does not impose a duty to rescue, meaning the men are not legally responsible for failing to seek help.

A lawyer for the family, Jin Yan, stated that while the men may not face criminal charges, they could still be liable for compensatory payment. Tao confirmed that he had offered 80,000 yuan (around US$11,000) to cover funeral costs through village mediation.

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

Location : China

First Published: November 19, 2025, 20:03 IST

News world Man Dies After Drowning, Panicked Friends Take Body Home And Lay Him In Bed Without Calling Help

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Not Qualified To Become UNSC Permanent Member: China Again Targets Japan Over Taiwan Remarks

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 18:57 IST

China says Japan is incapable of shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security.

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China's foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning attends a press conference in Beijing, China. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Wednesday said Japan is incapable of shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security" over Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis remarks on Taiwan.

Mao said Japan is not qualified to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council".

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The UN Security Council has five permanent members: China, the US, the UK, France and Russia.

Several countries, including India, have called for reforms to the UN Security Council so that it reflects the current multipolar order.

Japan has not fully reflected on its wartime responsibilities and Japans Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has recently made erroneous remarks about Taiwan, challenging the post-war international order," Ning said, referring to the Japans colonial-era aggression in China.

#FMsays Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning said Japan has not fully reflected on its wartime responsibilities and that Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has recently made erroneous remarks about Taiwan, challenging the post-war international order. A country like this is pic.twitter.com/jGeYelSGEu China Daily (@ChinaDaily) November 19, 2025

Tokyo occupied Manchuria in 1931, launched a full-scale invasion in 1937, and committed mass atrocities such as the Nanjing Massacre, where over 200,000 civilians were killed. Forced labour, military occupation and wartime exploitation continue to shape ChinaJapan relations today.

Ning said the Japan PMs remarks on Taiwan earlier this month, where Japans first female PM suggested that Tokyo could intervene militarily in any attack on Taiwan.

China, which claims Taiwan as part of its territory, has been furious, summoning Tokyos ambassador and advising its citizens against travel to Japan.

A country like this is incapable of shouldering the responsibility of safeguarding international peace and security and is not qualified to become a permanent member of the UN Security Council," Ning further added.

Meanwhile, Japanese news outlets reported that China will suspend Japanese seafood imports although neither government confirmed the move.

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Ning told a regular news conference: Under the current circumstances, even if Japanese seafood were exported to China, there would not be a market."

Japanese government spokesman Minaru Kihara also said there had been no notifications from the Chinese side on this".

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Beijing, China

First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:53 IST

News world Not Qualified To Become UNSC Permanent Member: China Again Targets Japan Over Taiwan Remarks

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PM Modi To Visit South Africa For G20 Summit, To Outline Indias Views On Growth, Climate, AI

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 20:12 IST

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will visit Johannesburg, South Africa from November 21 to 23 for the 20th G20 Leaders Summit, according to the external affairs ministry.

PM Modi will attend the 20th G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg from November 21 to 23 and outline Indias positions across all sessions. He will also attend the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) leaders meeting. (IMAGE: REUTERS FILE)

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will attend the G20 Leaders Summit in Johannesburg, South Africa, from November 21 to 23, where he will present Indias perspectives on the G20 agenda, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement released Wednesday.

PM Modi will speak in all three formal sessions of the summit, where he will outline Indias views on inclusive and sustainable growth, global resilience on climate and disaster risks, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and critical minerals. The sessions he will address are:

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Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth  Leaving No One Behind: Building resilient economies, the role of trade, financing for development and the global debt burden.

A Resilient World  The G20s Contribution: Disaster risk reduction, climate change, just energy transitions and strengthening food systems.

A Fair and Just Future for All: Critical minerals, decent work and the role of artificial intelligence.

The MEA said this will be the fourth consecutive G20 Summit hosted in the Global South. The sequence began when Indonesia chaired the Bali G20 Summit in 2022, handing the presidency to India.

India hosted the Summit in 2023, which marked a major milestone with the African Unions inclusion as a permanent member of the grouping. The presidency then passed to Brazil, which hosted the Rio Summit in 2024.

South Africa now holds the 2025 presidency, continuing the Global South leadership streak.

Collectively, G20 nations represent around 80% of global GDP, 75% of global trade and 60% of the worlds population, underscoring the weight of these back-to-back presidencies in emerging economies.

IBSA Meeting

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The ministry said PM Modi will also hold bilateral meetings with several leaders in Johannesburg. He is scheduled to attend the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders Meeting hosted by South Africa.

The India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Dialogue Forum is a trilateral platform bringing together three major democracies and emerging economies from Asia, South America and Africa. Established in 2003, IBSA focuses on cooperation in trade, development, defence, governance and wider South-South collaboration. The grouping also coordinates positions on global issues, advocates UN reforms including expansion of the Security Council, and jointly finances development projects in poorer nations through the UN-administered IBSA Fund.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 19:49 IST

News world PM Modi To Visit South Africa For G20 Summit, To Outline Indias Views On Growth, Climate, AI

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8-Month-Pregnant Indian Woman Killed In Sydney Car Crash, Teen Driver Charged

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 09:39 IST

A 33-year-old pregnant Indian-origin woman was killed in Sydney after a BMW allegedly rear-ended a Kia, pushing it into her as she crossed the street with her family.

Indian-origin woman killed in car crash in Australia (Photo/Instagram, Social Media video screengrab)

An Indian-origin woman who was eight months pregnant died after being struck during a two-car collision in Sydneys Hornsby suburb.

The victim, 33-year-old Samanvitha Dhareshwar, was walking with her husband and their three-year-old son when she was fatally hit on the evening of November 14, according to reports from People.

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New South Wales Police said the family had been crossing George Street around 8 pm when a Kia slowed to let them pass near the entrance of a car park.

Assistant Commissioner David Driver told the media that a white BMW then allegedly slammed into the Kia from behind, pushing it forward and striking Samanvitha.

As a result of that impact, shes now deceased," Driver said, noting that the collision also claimed the life of her unborn child.

He described the scene as deeply distressing for first responders.

Any serious crash is very confronting. This is a terrible, terrible story."

The BMW was being driven by a 19-year-old man, while a 48-year-old man was behind the wheel of the Kia.

Neither driver suffered injuries, though both were taken to Hornsby Hospital for mandatory testing, media reports stated.

Police arrested the 19-year-old at a home in Wahroonga shortly after midnight. He has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and causing the loss of a fetus, death of a pregnant woman.

In the days since the tragedy, tributes have been placed at the crash site, including flowers and handwritten notes.

The grief has been particularly acute within Sydneys Indian community, which shared a widely circulated social media statement mourning Samanvitha and her unborn child.

A young life, a mother, and an unborn baby, gone far too soon," the post read, calling the familys loss unimaginable" and expressing solidarity with her husband and child.

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A family shattered. A community heartbroken," it mentioned.

ALSO READ | Indian-Origin Techie Shares His Parents First-Ever Flight Experience From A Village To UK

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 09:09 IST

News world 8-Month-Pregnant Indian Woman Killed In Sydney Car Crash, Teen Driver Charged

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Romania Scrambles Jets As Drone Enters Airspace Amid Russian Strike On Ukraine

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 13:19 IST

The drone incursion comes amid heightened vigilance across NATOs eastern flank.

The ministry said it had received no reports of drones hitting Romanian territory. (File Photo)

Romania scrambled fighter jets after a drone crossed into its airspace during a Russian strike on Ukrainian infrastructure near the border, the countrys defence ministry said. The incident marks the latest spillover from Moscows attacks on targets close to NATO territory.

The European Union and NATO member shares a 650 km (400 mile) border with Ukraine and has repeatedly reported Russian drone fragments falling on its territory as Moscow targets Ukrainian port facilities along the Danube River, directly across from Romanian villages.

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Drone Detected 8 Km Inside Romania

According to the Romanias defence ministry, radar systems first detected the drone 8 km inside Romanian airspace, near the villages of Periprava and Chilia Veche in Tulcea County. The drone signal later disappeared from the radar before reappearing intermittently over a 12-minute period, this time near villages in Galati County.

Romania said it scrambled two Eurofighter Typhoons- part of the German air policing mission stationed in Romania- followed by two Romanian F-16 fighter jets. Authorities also issued warnings to residents in the southeastern counties of Tulcea and Galati, urging them to take cover as a precaution. The ministry said it had received no reports of drones hitting Romanian territory.

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Regional Airspace Tensions Rise

The drone incursion comes amid heightened vigilance across NATOs eastern flank. Poland, which borders western Ukraine, temporarily closed the Rzeszow and Lublin airports on Wednesday and scrambled both Polish and allied aircraft to safeguard its airspace during the Russian strikes. Romania has previously protested to Russia over multiple incidents involving drone debris landing on its soil.

Location : Delhi, India, India

First Published: November 19, 2025, 13:19 IST

News world Romania Scrambles Jets As Drone Enters Airspace Amid Russian Strike On Ukraine

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'Grateful To PM Modi': Sheikh Hasina's Son Says India Prevented Assassination Attempt On Mother

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 08:38 IST

Sajeeb Wazed has accused Bangladeshs government of running an illegal and politically driven trial against his mother, Sheikh Hasina, while thanking India for saving her life.

A poster of ousted Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina (Photo: AFP)

Sajeeb Wazed, son of Bangladeshs ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has credited India with preventing an assassination attempt on his mother during last years political upheaval, while slamming the interim administration in Dhaka and the judicial process that led to his mothers death sentence.

Speaking to news agency ANI in Virginia, US, Wazed accused Bangladeshs current rulers of manipulating laws, dismissing judges, and denying Hasina her constitutional rights.

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India has always been a good friend. In the crisis, India has essentially saved my mothers life. If she hadnt left Bangladesh, the militants had planned on killing her," he said.

I am eternally grateful to Prime Minister Modis government for saving my mothers life," he said, referring to Hasinas August 2024 escape to India at the height of nationwide protests.

His remarks come days after the International Crimes Tribunal in Dhaka handed Hasina, 78, a death sentence in absentia for allegedly ordering a deadly crackdown on student-led demonstrators last year.

The verdict, the harshest ever against a Bangladeshi political leader, has drawn both jubilation and anger on the streets, as well as heightened tensions between Dhaka and New Delhi after Bangladesh formally sought Hasinas extradition.

Wazed dismissed the proceedings as a political charade, alleging that the interim government, led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, had subverted due process at every stage.

For an extradition to happen, the judicial process has to be followed. In Bangladesh, there is a government thats unelected, unconstitutional and illegal. In order to convict my mother, they amended the laws to fast-track her trial. So these laws were amended illegally," he said.

My mother was not allowed to hire her defence attorneys. Her attorneys werent even allowed into the courts," he added.

He further claimed the tribunals composition was engineered to ensure a predetermined verdict.

Seventeen judges were terminated at the court before the trial, new judges appointed, some of whom had absolutely no experience on the bench and were politically connected. So, there was no due process whatsoever. For extradition to happen, there has to be due process," Hasinas son said.

#WATCH | Virginia, US | On Indias role during the Bangladesh political crisis, ousted Bangladeshi PM Sheikh Hasinas son Sajeeb Wazed tells ANI, India has always been a good friend. In the crisis, India has essentially saved my mothers life. If she hadnt left Bangladesh, pic.twitter.com/bi3C2IDdiG ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

Hasina, who has rejected the tribunal as a rigged" and politically motivated" mechanism, had fled to India during unprecedented unrest that paralysed Bangladesh between mid-July and early August last year.

A UN assessment later estimated that up to 1,400 people were killed, most by gunfire from security forces, during the weeks-long uprising, which became Bangladeshs deadliest political crisis since its 1971 independence.

The interim government has defended the trial as transparent and lawful, insisting the judgment reflected the severity of the actions attributed to the former prime minister.

The verdict comes as the country prepares for elections in February, with the Awami League currently barred from participating, a restriction Wazed warned could trigger further violence.

Meanwhile, security across Bangladesh remains tight.

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In recent days, dozens of crude bombs were detonated and vehicles set ablaze ahead of the ruling, prompting heavy deployments around government buildings and judicial complexes.

ALSO READ | Opinion: Bangladesh At Crossroads, Hasina Stares At Death Sentence

About the Author Vani Mehrotra Vani Mehrotra is the Deputy News Editor at News18.com. She has nearly 10 years of experience in both national and international news and has previously worked on multiple desks.

First Published: November 19, 2025, 08:37 IST

News world 'Grateful To PM Modi': Sheikh Hasina's Son Says India Prevented Assassination Attempt On Mother

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Trump Defends H-1B Visas, Slams MAGA Over Rigidity: Im Gonna Welcome Those People'

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Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 02:39 IST

US President Donald Trump has faced flak from MAGA over not ending H-1B visas. The MAGA movement believes that H-1B visas are taking jobs from Americans.

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US President Donald Trump speaks during the US-Saudi Investment Forum in Washington, DC, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

US President Donald Trump said he loves his conservative friends and MAGA" but defended the H-1B visa on Wednesday while addressing the US-Saudi Investment Forum.

He said he does not expect companies to open a massive computer chip factory for billions and billions of dollars" and hire people off an unemployment line to run it", adding that foreign workers can come teach American people skills and then head back home.

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You cant come in, open a massive computer chip factory for billions and billions of dollars like is being done in Arizona, and think youre gonna hire people off an unemployment line to run it. Theyre gonna have to bring thousands of people with them and Im gonna welcome those people. This is MAGA," Trump said.

The US President appeared to suggest some in his base are being too rigid about the need for high-skilled foreign workers.

They just dont understand," he grumbled.

People have to be taught this is something theyve never done. But were not going to be successful if we dont allow people that invest billions of dollars in plants and equipment to bring a lot of their people from their country to get that plant open, operating and working. Im sorry."

Speaking in favor of H-1B Visas at todays U.S-Saudi Investment Forum in Washington, President Donald J. Trump said: You can't come in, open a massive computer chip factory for billions and billions of dollars like is being done in Arizona, and think you're gonna hire people off pic.twitter.com/KEjKQI3pgd OSINTdefender (@sentdefender) November 19, 2025

The MAGA movements dislike of the H-1B visa stems from its belief that the programme allows US companies to replace American workers with cheaper foreign labour, a narrative that has gained traction especially after a few high-profile cases where Americans were laid off and asked to train H-1B replacements.

Much of this anger is directed at Indian IT companies, which dominate H-1B applications and are often portrayed by MAGA supporters as driving offshoring from within" by supplying lower-cost tech labour to US firms.

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The movement also argues that H-1B hiring suppresses wages for American engineers and programmers, making it easier for companies to avoid raising salaries. Donald Trump repeatedly called H-1B a cheap labour" system during his campaigns, reinforcing the view among his base.

In September 2025, President Trump signed a proclamation imposing a one-time $100,000 fee on each new H1B visa petition filed on behalf of foreign workers outside the United States. Following confusion over the language, the White House clarified that the fee does not apply to current H-1B holders, renewals or visa re-entries, saying the levy applies only to new petitions filed from 12:01 a.m. ET on September 21.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 20, 2025, 02:39 IST

News world Trump Defends H-1B Visas, Slams MAGA Over Rigidity: Im Gonna Welcome Those People'

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Trumps Plan Urges Ukraine To Cede Donbas To Putin, US To Recognise Crimea As Russian: Report

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Last Updated: November 20, 2025, 01:15 IST

The plan envisions large concessions from Ukraine and also urged Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to accept it.

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US President Donald Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin walk to a joint news conference following their meeting at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Anchorage, Alaska, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

The Trump administration and Russian officials have drafted a peace proposal to end the RussiaUkraine war that could see Kyiv give up the entire Donbas region and cut its armed forces by half, according to the Financial Times, which first reported the development.

The report said that one of the architects of the plan is Kirill Dmitriev, the head of Russias sovereign wealth fund and a close ally of President Vladimir Putin and that the plan is still at a framework stage.

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Officials told the Financial Times that the plan was conveyed to Kyiv by Steve Witkoff, Trumps special envoy to Ukraine, this week. Witkoff had recently met the current secretary of the national security and defence council of Ukraine and former defence minister, Rustem Umerov, in Miami to go over the 28 points of Trumps Ukraine Peace Plan.

Officials highlighted that Witkoff made it clear that he wanted Zelenskyy to accept the terms even though there were points which were red lines for Kyiv.

Along with Ukraine ceding eastern Donbas and cut its armed forces size by half, the plan also envisions Ukraine to abandon key categories of weaponry and would include the reduction of US military assistance, which Kyiv has depended on to fight Russia.

The plan also says that no foreign troops can be allowed on Ukrainian soil and Kyiv would no longer receive western long-range weapons that can reach deep inside Russia.

The plan would also urge Ukraine to recognise Russian as an official state language and to grant official status to the local branch of the Russian Orthodox Church.

Territorial Concessions

A separate report by Axios said that, under the proposal, the US and other countries would recognise Crimea and the Donbas as legally part of Russia, though Ukraine itself would not be required to do so.

Crimea has been at the centre of the conflict since 2014, when Russia annexed the peninsula following a referendum held under military occupation.

The move was condemned by Ukraine and most Western governments, which continue to regard Crimea as Ukrainian territory under international law.

Moscow, however, considers the region fully integrated into the Russian Federation.

According to the 28-point Trump plan, Russia would gain full de facto control of the Luhansk and Donetsk regions  collectively the Donbas  even though Ukraine still holds about 14.5% of that territory, based on the latest analysis by the Institute for the Study of War.

The areas from which Ukraine would withdraw in the Donbas would become a demilitarised zone where Russia would not be permitted to station troops despite exercising control.

In the southern regions of Kherson and Zaporizhzhia, the plan proposes largely freezing current lines of control, with Russia returning certain pockets of land subject to negotiation.

How Has Ukraine Reacted

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Officials in Kyiv briefed on the proposal told the Financial Times that the plan mirrors the Kremlins maximalist demands and would be a non-starter for Ukraine" unless substantially revised.

However, one person familiar with the discussions struck a more cautious note, saying the Americans are pressing Moscow to clearly articulate what their expectations actually are to actually start the negotiations."

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 20, 2025, 00:28 IST

News world Trumps Plan Urges Ukraine To Cede Donbas To Putin, US To Recognise Crimea As Russian: Report

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Ukraines Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration Taras Kachka has the energy corruption scandal has not affected consultations on the "reparation loan."

"No. The governments reaction to this scandal has been received absolutely normally by European colleagues. It is obvious that the independence, speed and quality of the investigation are decisive. This means that the anti-corruption infrastructure is working, and all our partners note this. The solutions are also correct, because we do not tolerate corruption. And the proposal to dismiss the ministers involved in this scandal is an important step," Kachka told reporters on the sidelines of the International Food Security Summit "Food from Ukraine" in Kyiv on Wednesday, answering the question of whether the events currently unfolding in Ukraine are affecting consultations on the reparation loan.

At the same time, he agreed that such a scandal in itself "is not something pleasant."

As reported, the EU is considering the possibility of using Russian frozen assets worth about EUR170 billion, which are currently stored in the Euroclear financial depository in Brussels. It was assumed that EUR140 billion of these funds would go to a "reparation loan" for Ukraine.

On October 28, the European Commission said that it was working to fulfill the request of the European Council to provide answers to the remaining questions regarding the use of frozen Russian assets for Ukraine in order to make a decision in December.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko says that the International Monetary Fund may introduce a new program that does not directly depend on the provision of a "reparation loan".

Kachka said that he expects to agree on positions with partners on a "reparation loan" by December 19.
China Targeted India With AI-Driven Disinformation On Rafale After Op Sindoor: US Report

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 16:04 IST

The Commission report stated that China allegedly deployed fake social media accounts to propagate AI images of supposed debris from Rafale planes.

China Used AI to Target India With Operation Sindoor Rafale Disinformation. (File Pic)

The gradual thaw in India-China relations following the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit has coincided with new allegations from a United States congressional advisory body.

On Wednesday, the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission accused Beijing of orchestrating a disinformation campaign" in the aftermath of Indias Operation Sindoor, using artificial intelligence-generated images and fake social media accounts to influence global defence perceptions.

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What the US agency said?

In its annual report to Congress, the Commission stated that China allegedly deployed fake social media accounts to propagate AI images of supposed debris from planes," portraying Indian and French aircraft as having been destroyed by Chinese systems.

The report further alleged that Beijings objective was to undermine the global market prospects of the French-made Rafale fighter jet, which is operated by the Indian Air Force, and instead promote its own next-generation J-35 aircraft. The narrative, it claimed, formed part of Chinas wider Grey Zone strategy, a set of tactics used to influence geopolitical outcomes without direct military confrontation.

According to the Commission, China opportunistically" exploited the India-Pakistan conflict in May, when tensions escalated sharply, to highlight what it described as the sophistication of its own weaponry. This, it argued, was intended both to reinforce Chinas standing amid ongoing border tensions with India and to serve its expanding defence-export ambitions.

Operation Sindoor

India launched Operation Sindoor in May in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in April, in which 26 civilians were killed. The operation involved strikes on terror infrastructure and military assets inside Pakistan.

In August, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh confirmed that the Indian Air Force had destroyed five Pakistani fighter jets and a large airborne surveillance aircraft during the operation. The achievement boosted Indias military standing and further strained Pakistans efforts to challenge the narrative internationally.

India-China ties

Turning to India-China relations, the Commissions report underscored what it described as a fundamental asymmetry" between the two nations regarding the resolution of border disputes.

It observed that China has employed high-profile diplomatic engagement to secure partial resolutions while attempting to compartmentalise the boundary issue. Beijing, it said, uses this approach to retain strategic space for cooperation in trade and investment without compromising its territorial claims.

India, by contrast, insists that genuine normalisation of bilateral relations is not possible without a sustainable and comprehensive settlement of the border question. The report noted that New Delhi has increasingly recognised the seriousness of Chinas posture along the Line of Actual Control.

The Commission criticised the absence of concrete progress, stating that recent agreements between the two countries remain largely conceptual," lacking detailed mechanisms or meaningful follow-through.

Dalai Lama successor and India-China relation

The report also highlighted the likely succession of the Dalai Lama as a potential flashpoint in India-China relations, suggesting that tensions could intensify depending on how both sides position themselves.

It remains uncertain, the Commission said, whether current diplomatic engagements reflect a long-term shift towards genuine stabilisation or are driven by Indias desire to hedge amid fluctuating negotiations with the United States.

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Prime Minister Narendra Modis visit to China for the SCO Summit, where he met President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, was regarded in Washington as part of this hedging strategy, especially following the imposition of 50 per cent US tariffs on Indian goods earlier this year.

Meanwhile, despite the turbulence, India-US ties have begun to stabilise in recent months. Officials expect the first tranche of a new trade agreement to be announced soon, signalling a possible reset in economic relations.

About the Author Shuddhanta Patra Shuddhanta Patra, a seasoned journalist with eight years of experience, serves as Senior SubEditor at CNN News 18. With expertise across national politics, geopolitics, business news, she has influen... Read More

Location : United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 14:11 IST

News world China Targeted India With AI-Driven Disinformation On Rafale After Op Sindoor: US Report

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'We Must Stay Alert': Pakistan Defence Minister Says Can't Rule Out All-Out War With India

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:58 IST

Pakistan has repeatedly accused India of backing attacks by Afghanistan-based Islamist groups in its territory, without providing any evidence, a charge India has rejected.

Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Pakistans Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said the possibility of an all-out war with India cannot be ruled out since tensions escalated during Operation Sindoor, while accusing New Delhi of backing Afghan strikes on the country.

While speaking to a local channel, Asif said, We are neither ignoring India nor trusting it under any circumstances. Based on my analysis, I cannot rule out an ALL-OUT WAR or any hostile strategy from India, including border incursions or attacks (presumably Afghan). We must stay fully alert."

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 Big Statement From PaK Def Min Khawaja AsifWe are neither ignoring India nor trusting it under any circumstances. Based on my analysis, I cannot rule out an ALL-OUT WAR or any hostile strategy from India, including border incursions or attacks(Presumably Afghan). We pic.twitter.com/KBvx4Yu02q  OsintTV  (@OsintTV) November 19, 2025

This came days after Pakistan had accused Afghan nationals of carrying out two deadly suicide bombings in its territory as relations between the two former allies continue to deteriorate. Pakistan also repeated accusations that the Afghan Taliban administration was supporting Islamist militants who are attacking the country.

A suicide bomber blew himself up near a police patrol outside a lower court in Islamabad last week, killing 12 people and wounding 27 others. Asif said the deadly suicide bombing in Islamabad was a wake-up call" for the country, warning that Pakistan was now in a state of war".

Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif accused India of backing the attacks, without any evidence, blaming Indian-sponsored terror proxies". India responded to Sharifs remark by calling it a predictable tactic" to concoct false narratives against India" to deflect attention from its own problems, and termed the accusation as a desperate diversionary ploy".

India unequivocally rejects the baseless and unfounded allegations being made by an obviously delirious Pakistani leadership. It is a predictable tactic by Pakistan to concoct false narratives against India in order to deflect the attention of its own public from the ongoing military-inspired constitutional subversion and power-grab unfolding within the country," said Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal in a statement.

India-Pakistan Relations

Tensions between India and Pakistan sharply escalated after the barbaric terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22, in which 26 tourists were gunned down by Pakistan-linked terrorists. The Resistance Front (TRF), an offshoot of the Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), took responsibility for the attack.

India took a series of diplomatic actions, such as suspending the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) before responding militarily to the Pahalgam attack by launching precise airstrikes at terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK as part of Operation Sindoor, eliminating over 100 terrorists.

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Targets included Jaishs Markaz Subhan Allah in Bahawalpur, Sarjal camp in Tehra Kalan, Markaz Abbas in Kotli, and the Syedna Bilal camp in Muzaffarabad. Lashkars strongholds  Markaz Taiba in Murdike, Markaz Ahle Hadith in Barnala, and Shwawai Nalla camp in Muzaffarabad  were also hit. Hizbul Mujahideens facilities at Makaz Raheel Shahid in Kotli and Mehmoona Joya in Sialkot were among those targeted.

This sparked four days of cross-border attacks between the two countries until an understanding to halt hostilities was reached on May 10. The operation, planned and executed with high precision, involved long-range strikes on sites linked to Pakistans air power and strategic assets.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More

Location : Islamabad, Pakistan

First Published: November 19, 2025, 17:58 IST

News world 'We Must Stay Alert': Pakistan Defence Minister Says Can't Rule Out All-Out War With India

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'We See You. We Are Ready': UK Issues Sharp Warning After Russian Ship Enters British Waters

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 18:42 IST

UK Defence Secretary said the Yantar had moved into the UKs wider waters over recent weeks and was now positioned north of Scotland

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British Defence Secretary John Healey said that this was the second such incident involving the ship, named Yantar, this year. (AFP photo)

The United Kingdom on Wednesday issued a strong warning to Russia after confirming that a Russian naval vessel entered British waters and directed lasers at its pilots.

British Defence Secretary John Healey said that this was the second such incident involving the ship, named Yantar, this year.

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Speaking at a press briefing in Downing Street, Healey said the Yantar had moved into the UKs wider waters over recent weeks and was now positioned north of Scotland.

He noted that the UK deployed a Royal Navy frigate and Royal Air Force aircraft to monitor the vessel closely. During this operation, the Russian ship allegedly pointed lasers at British pilots, an action Healey described as deeply dangerous".

In a clear message to Moscow, Healey said: My message to Russia and to Putin is this: We see you. We know what youre doing, Healey said during a briefing in London. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready."

Healey noted that the Yantar is believed to be part of a Russian fleet designed to target or disrupt undersea infrastructure, including communication and power cables. It is part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk," he noted.

Britain and NATO allies have raised concerns in recent months about the vulnerability of underwater networks after several instances of sabotage involving cables in European waters.

UK officials say the Yantar is capable of both surveillance and sabotage, and is therefore tracked whenever it nears British territory. Healey highlighted that this was not the ships first encounter with the UK.

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After being warned last year, the vessel withdrew to the Mediterranean. When it passed through the English Channel in January, it was shadowed by HMS Somerset, a Royal Navy frigate responsible for homeland defence.

(With inputs from agencies)

About the Author News Desk The News Desk is a team of passionate editors and writers who break and analyse the most important events unfolding in India and abroad. From live updates to exclusive reports to in-depth explainers, ... Read More

Location : United Kingdom (UK)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 18:42 IST

News world 'We See You. We Are Ready': UK Issues Sharp Warning After Russian Ship Enters British Waters

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'We Struck India From Red Fort To Kashmir': Pakistan Leader's Shocking Remark On Terror

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 17:02 IST

Haq, who was ousted by a no-confidence vote as the Prime Minister of PoK, seemingly admitted to Pakistan's involvement in the deadly blast near Delhi's Red Fort.

Authorities are probing a terror angle in the November 10 blast in Delhi. (PTI/File)

More than a week after the deadly attack near Delhis Red Fort, Pakistani leader Chaudhry Anwarul Haq made a big confession about the countrys involvement in cross-border terrorism, claiming that it had struck India from the Red Fort to the forests of Kashmir."

Haqs remarks referenced a high-intensity blast from a slow-moving car that ripped through the Red Fort metro station area on November 10 and killed at least 15 people. His remarks on Kashmirs forests mentioned the barbaric terror attack in Pahalgam, in which 26 tourists were gunned down by Pakistan-linked terrorists.

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Haq, who was ousted by a no-confidence vote as the Prime Minister of the Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, made a statement in the PoK Assembly on Monday, where he could be heard saying, I had earlier said that if you (India) keep bleeding Balochistan, we will strike India from Red Fort to the forests of Kashmir, and our Shaheens have done it. They still cant count the bodies."

POJK PM praised Delhi blast Yesterday POJKs recently resigned PM Anwarul Haq said that I earlier said that if you keep bleeding Balochistan, well hit India from Red Fort to the forests of Kashmir and weve done it, theyre still unable to count bodies." pic.twitter.com/vK6fDVr4cb  War & Gore (@Goreunit) November 19, 2025

This came after authorities seized 2,900 kilograms of explosives hours before the Delhi blast from what police described as a white-collar terror module", spanning Jammu and Kashmir, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh, linked to the Pakistani terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Ansar Ghazwat-ul-Hind.

Pakistans Response

Meanwhile, Pakistans federal government has distanced itself from the statement, calling it a political blunder by a disgraced leader after his no-confidence vote defeat in PoK, according to reports.

However, Haqs remarks are being viewed as a confirmation of Indias claims that Pakistans security agencies are operating closely with terror groups that are responsible for violent attacks on India and Islamabads involvement in cross-border terrorism.

Relations between India and Pakistan deteriorated sharply after the Pahalgam terror attack, which prompted an Indian military response through Operation Sindoor, which targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and PoK and killed over 100 terrorists. This sparked four days of cross-border attacks between the two countries until an understanding to halt hostilities was reached on May 10.

Terror Probe In Delhi Blast

Haryanas Al-Falah University is at the centre of the investigation into the Delhi Red Fort blast case as several of the accused in the case, including doctors and academics, were either alumni or employees of the institution, which is now being probed for possible links to a wider terror network.

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Jammu and Kashmir Police have recovered the mobile phone of Red Fort suicide bomber Dr Umar-un-Nabi, and data extracted from the damaged device has revealed a video he recorded to justify the attack as a so-called martyrdom operation," officials said on Tuesday.

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) arrested Jasir Bilal Wani alias Danish from Srinagar, accusing him of allegedly providing technical support for carrying out terror attacks by modifying drones and attempting to make rockets ahead of the deadly blast in Delhi.

About the Author Aveek Banerjee Aveek Banerjee is a Senior Sub Editor at News18. Based in Noida with a Master's in Global Studies, Aveek has more than three years of experience in digital media and news curation, specialising in int... Read More

First Published: November 19, 2025, 16:49 IST

News world 'We Struck India From Red Fort To Kashmir': Pakistan Leader's Shocking Remark On Terror

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You Lose: Saudi's MBS Trolls Bookies Who Bet Hed Wear A Suit, In Nod To TrumpZelenskyy Spat

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Last Updated: November 19, 2025, 22:12 IST

Mohammed bin Salman joked about betting sites and suits at the White House, amusing Donald Trump.

US President Donald Trump greets Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, during a dinner at the White House in Washington, DC, US. (IMAGE: REUTERS)

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman left US President Donald Trump laughing when he ended his remarks on Tuesday saying that betting sites had placed bids on whether hed be wearing a suit to the White House dinner.

The Saudi crown prince received a lavish welcome at the White House on Tuesday, comparable to the treatment extended to American leaders when they visit the kingdom.

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This was his first trip to the US since the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, an incident that triggered global outrage and briefly turned the heir into an international pariah.

The state visit also stood out because the crown prince is not Saudi Arabias formal head of state, though that did not prevent Trump from rolling out the red carpet for the kingdoms de facto ruler.

Before I came here someone told me that there are betting sites where you can bet on me wearing a black suit and if you bet on me you could get almost a 17x. Sorry, you lose the bet. Better luck next time!" Salman said.

Mohammed bin Salman: "Before I came here someone told me that there are betting sites where you can bet on me wearing a black suit and if you bet on me you could get almost a 17x. Sorry, you lose the bet. Better luck next time!"  pic.twitter.com/roFMSCR6hj Autism Capital  (@AutismCapital) November 19, 2025

Salmans quip was a possible reference to the suit spat between US President Trump and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskyy that grabbed headlines globally.

In February 2025, the Oval Office meeting between Donald Trump and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy turned heated shortly after the opening handshake. A reporter from the conservative outlet Real Americas Voice, Brian Glenn, asked Zelenskyy: Why dont you wear a suit? Youre at the highest level in this countrys office and you refuse to wear a suit. Do you own a suit?"

Zelenskyy snapped back: Do you have a problem?"

He explained he would only wear a suit after the war is finished." Trump, who had earlier cheekily told the press that Zelenskyy was all dressed up today", joined the jibe.

During Volodymyr Zelenskyys second visit to the White House in August 2025, the exchange over his attire resurfaced when he walked in wearing an all-black jacket, shirt and slacks by Ukrainian designer Viktor Anisimov.

Glenn, the reporter who had previously questioned why Zelenskyy did not wear a suit during his February meeting with Donald Trump, greeted him this time with, You look fabulous in that suit."

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Trump echoed the compliment, adding to Zelenskyy, Isnt that nice? Thats the one that attacked you last time."

Zelenskyy replied with a quick quip: You are in the same suit. I changed, you did not," drawing laughter from the room.

About the Author Shankhyaneel Sarkar Shankhyaneel Sarkar is a Chief Sub-Editor at News18. He covers international affairs, where he focuses on breaking news to in-depth analyses. He has over seven years of experience during which he has ... Read More

Location : Washington D.C., United States of America (USA)

First Published: November 19, 2025, 22:11 IST

News world You Lose: Saudi's MBS Trolls Bookies Who Bet Hed Wear A Suit, In Nod To TrumpZelenskyy Spat

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There are 25 dead in Ternopil, incl three children  Interior Ministry

Photo: https://www.facebook.com

The death toll in Ternopil due to an enemy attack last night has risen to 25, including three children, the Ministry of Internal Affairs (MIA) has reported.

"In Ternopil, 25 people were killed, including three children, as a result of Russian shelling of the city. Another 73 people, including 15 children, were injured," the Ministry of Internal Affairs said in a Facebook post on Wednesday.

Fourteen State Emergency Service psychologists from across Ukraine are reportedly working near the damaged building, having already provided assistance to 150 people.

Rescue operations are ongoing. More than 160 rescuers are involved, including climbers, dog handlers, the Delta special forces unit, and State Emergency Service equipment. Bomb disposal experts have surveyed the area.
Photo: https://www.facebook.com/RedCrossUkraine

The Ukrainian Red Cross Society (URCS) is assisting victims of Russia's latest massive combined missile and drone attack on Ternopil and Kharkiv.

Ternopil. The Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response team in Ternopil region is operating at two locations in coordination with other city emergency services, URCS said on Facebook Wednesday.

Volunteers are providing first aid and psychological first aid to those affected, as well as evacuating people from damaged buildings to hospitals. So far, seven people have been evacuated.

An aid station has been set up on site, where residents of damaged buildings and the emergency responders can receive essential assistance.

The Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response team in Kharkiv region joined other services on the ground to assist at the site of the attack. Volunteers conducted door-to-door checks of damaged buildings and surrounding areas to identify affected individuals, providing first aid and psychological support. They also assisted with evacuating people from damaged buildings and transferred them to ambulance crews.

Aid stations have been established at the locations to provide hot drinks, water, mobile charging, and psychological support. Based on assessed needs, humanitarian aid is being distributed to those affected, including OSB boards, tarpaulins, emergency kits, hygiene kits, blankets, and water.

As reported, the death toll in Ternopil due to the enemy missile and drone attack on Wednesday night has risen to 19, with 66 injured, including 16 children.

According to the State Emergency Service of Ukraine, 32 people, including two children, were injured as a result of the Russian drone attack on Kharkiv overnight. Fires broke out and residential buildings, infrastructure, and vehicles were destroyed in several areas of the city.
The CDC has officially linked measles outbreaks in Texas, Utah, and Arizona, raising concerns that the US could lose its measles elimination status for the first time in 25 years. The chain of transmission originated in January within a Mennonite community in Texas and spread to Oklahoma and New Mexico before reaching Utah and Arizona, the New York Times reports. The outbreak in Utah and Arizona is the largest in the country, with more than 180 reported cases.

Health officials warn that if the outbreak continues past January, marking a year of sustained transmission, the US will lose its elimination status, a designation granted by the World Health Organization when a country has interrupted endemic measles transmission. Canada lost its elimination status last week, meaning the Americas region as a whole has lost its measles-free designation. The region is the first and only one to have been declared measles-free, the BBC reports. It gained the status in 2016 but briefly lost it last year after outbreaks in Brazil and Venezuela, which were ended with vaccination campaigns.

"I wouldn't call the code yet, but I think the patient's not looking real good," said Michael Osterholm, director of the Center for Infectious Disease Research and Policy at the University of Minnesota, per the Times. Most new infections are among household contacts, but about a quarter have no identified source, suggesting gaps in containment. Roughly 7% of cases have been traced to large gatherings, such as weddings. A CDC official noted that the risk of widespread transmission in the US remains low, but the virus can spread quickly in communities with low vaccination rates. More than 90% of reported cases involve unvaccinated people or people whose vaccination status is unknown.

The CDC is collaborating with health authorities in Canada and Mexico to track the genetic sequence of the virus and share containment strategies. Experts say losing elimination status would be "deeply embarrassing" for a wealthy country with robust medical resources, though it may not result in immediate practical consequences like travel restrictions, the Times reports.
In a case that drew headlines as the world's first alleged crime in space , the ex-wife of a NASA astronaut has pleaded guilty to faking the entire episode. Summer Heather Worden, a former Air Force intelligence officer, admitted last week that she lied to investigators when she claimed astronaut Anne McClain illegally accessed her bank account from orbit, reports the New York Times . Worden, 50, now faces up to five years in prison and a $250,000 fine for lying to federal investigators.

The saga began in 2019, when Worden accused McClainthen aboard the International Space Stationof using a guessed password to sneak into her bank account, sparking investigations by both the Federal Trade Commission and NASA's inspector general. However, federal investigators later determined that Worden had given McClain access to the accounts years earlier, starting in 2015, as part of their shared finances. Prosecutors said Worden misled authorities about when she created her personal account and changed her login information. McClain, a West Point graduate and Iraq veteran who joined NASA in 2013, has always maintained she was simply managing household finances with Worden's full knowledge. The indictment against Worden was unsealed in April 2020.

Worden made the allegations during a custody battle over their son, then six years old, KHOU reports. Worden and McClain were married in 2014. Their divorce was finalized in early 2020. McClain has continued her career, recently commanding NASA's SpaceX Crew-10 mission to the ISS. She returned to Earth in August after five months in space. Worden is scheduled to be sentenced by a federal judge in Houston on Feb. 12.
A bill to force the Justice Department to release its files on Jeffrey Epstein is set to reach President Trump's desk after passing the House with near-unanimous consen t. Hours after the House vote, Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer offered a motion that secured unanimous consent to deem the legislation passed, the Washington Post reports. "That means as soon as it arrives from the House, it automatically passes the Senate (with no amendments) and heads to the President's desk," Democratic Sen. Chris Murphy said in a post on X .

Earlier Tuesday, Senate Majority Leader John Thune predicted there would be no objections from Republicans, Politico reports. "My assumption is the president sounds like he's prepared to sign it," Thune told reporters. "So I'd assume it would move fairly quickly over here." House Speaker Mike Johnson, who long tried to block the Epstein Files Transparency Act but ended up voting for it, described the bill as "deeply flawed" on Tuesday and said he would speak to Thune about making amendments. Thune, however, said amendments were unlikely, the Hill reports. "When a bill comes out of the House 427 to 1 and the president has said he's going to sign it, I'm not sure that amending it is in the cards," the Republican said.

In a post on Truth Social, President Trump said he wasn't concerned about the bill, the Guardian reports. "I don't care when the Senate passes the House Bill, whether tonight, or at some other time in the near future, I just don't want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the Victories that we've had," he said.
President Trump denounced ABC News' Mary Bruce as a "terrible reporter" Tuesday and threatened the network's license to broadcast after she asked him three sharp questions at the White House. The network's chief White House correspondent was among reporters let into the Oval Office to question the president and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the AP reports. She asked Trump whether it was appropriate for his family to be doing business in Saudi Arabia while he was president.

Before he could answer, she directed a question to the Saudi leader: "Your Royal Highness, the US intelligence concluded that you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist. 9/11 families are furious that you are here in the Oval Office. Why should Americans trust you? And the same to you, Mr. President."
The Trump administration on Tuesday announced a $1 billion federal loan to Constellation Energy to restart part of the shuttered Three Mile Island nuclear plant in Pennsylvania, now rebranded as the Crane Clean Energy Center, CNBC reports. The plant, formerly known as Three Mile Island Unit 1, last generated power in 2019. Its revival is scheduled for 2027 as part of a deal to supply electricity to Microsoft data centers. The site is infamous for the 1979 partial meltdown of Three Mile Island Unit 2, the worst nuclear accident in US history. The federal loan will cover most of the project's estimated $1.6 billion price tag, with initial funds set to be released in early 2026.

Constellation, the nation's largest nuclear operator, has agreed to safeguards intended to protect taxpayer funds. The company could have finished the project without federal assistance, but the loan should make electricity cheaper for 65 million people across the 13-state PJM Interconnection power grid, according to Greg Beard, a senior advisor to the Energy Department's Loan Programs Office. "What's important for the administration is to show support for affordable, reliable, secure energy in the US," Beard told reporters. "This loan to Constellation will lower the cost of capital and make power cheaper for those PJM ratepayers."

The Energy Department is also backing the revival of two other nuclear plants: Palisades in Michigan, with a $1.5 billion loan, and Duane Arnold in Iowa, which is tied to a Google power agreement. Three Mile Island's restart is one of several attempts to bring dormant reactors back online as demand for reliable electricity surges, driven in part by artificial intelligence and data center expansion. Nuclear energy is "virtually carbon-free," per CNN. But, as the Washington Post explains, quite a bit of controversy surrounds the idea of taxpayers subsidizing such projects, which carry "the financial risk that comes with generating energy for wealthy tech companies."
The Epstein Files Transparency Act was approved by the House and Senate on Tuesday with only one member of Congress in opposition. Rep. Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican, was the sole "Nay" in the House's 427-1 vote . He said he opposed the bill to release the Justice Department's files on Jeffrey Epstein on privacy grounds, Politico reports. In a post on X , Higgins said he had been a "principled 'NO' from the beginning."

The AP describes Higgins as a "fervent Trump supporter and a member of the ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus." He chairs the subcommittee of the House Oversight Committee that first subpoenaed the DOJ for files on its Epstein investigation. During the months they spent trying to block the bill, Republican leaders pointed to the committee's work as evidence it wasn't needed. The initial subpoena Higgins issued focused only on Bill and Hillary Clinton, the New York Times notes. In his post on X, Higgins said the committee is "conducting a thorough investigation that has already released well over 60,000 pages of documents from the Epstein case."

"If the Senate amends the bill to properly address privacy of victims and other Americans, who are named but not criminally implicated, then I will vote for that bill when it comes back to the House," Higgins wrote, but the Senate later agreed by unanimous consent to send the bill to President Trump's desk without amendments. House Speaker Mike Johnson, who voted for the legislation, also raised concerns about victims' privacy. The legislation, however, says that the attorney general can withhold or redact any information that identifies victims, NBC News reports.
The North Carolina man charged with killing four of his children told investigators a fifth child, a 1-month-old infant, also died and was buried behind the family home. Court documents released Tuesday reveal that Wellington Dickens III, 38, said the infant, named Riley, was his youngest child and died soon after the family moved to Zebulon, a town east of Raleigh, per NBC News . The move occurred in May 2023, per WRAL . Dickens told authorities that Riley's health declined, and he wrapped the 1-month-old in plastic or paper before burying him in the woods. The death was never reported, and relatives told police they never saw or heard of Riley after the move.

Authorities have not yet located the baby's remains, but say the search is ongoing. No additional charges related to the baby's death have been filed against Dickens, who is currently being held without bond on murder charges in connection with the deaths of the other four children. The investigation began after Dickens called 911 on Oct. 27 and reported the deaths of the four children. Deputies who responded to the scene found a 3-year-old alive in the home and a body bag carrying human remains in the trunk of Dickens' car.

The four victims were later identified as Leah Dickens, 6; Zoe Dickens, 9; Wellington Dickens IV, 10; and Sean Brasfield, 18, who was Dickens' stepchild. According to the affidavit, Dickens said he did not torture the children but "over disciplined" them. He told investigators that Leah died first after being disciplined, per WRAL. Afterward, Dickens said he taped Zoe's mouth shut as punishment for comments she made about her deceased sister, and later found her dead. His 10-year-old son died next from malnutrition, followed by the 18-year-old, Dickens said, according to investigators. The Iraq War veteran recently lost his wife and father.
Democrats in Congress introduced new legislation Tuesday aimed at tightening restrictions on private donations for construction projects on White House grounds, a move prompted by President Trump's effort to raise $300 million in private funds for a new East Wing ballroom, CBS News reports. The "Stop Ballroom Bribery Act," sponsored by Sen. Elizabeth Warren and Rep. Robert Garcia, seeks to prevent potential conflicts of interest by barring the president from soliciting donations, prohibiting donor anonymity, and instituting a two-year lobbying ban for contributors. The Trump administration claims to have released a full list of donors to the project, which it says will be 100% privately funded, but sources tell ABC News some donors have been allowed to remain anonymous.

The bill, which ABC notes is unlikely to even make it to Trump's desk let alone be signed into law, would also block donations from entities with pending business before the federal governmentincluding those involved in litigation or seeking federal contracts. According to congressional sources, several companies that have donated to the 90,000-square-foot ballroom project currently have matters pending before federal agencies, such as mergers that need Justice Department approval. Sen. Richard Blumenthal, a co-sponsor, argued the legislation is a direct response to what Warren calls a "pay-to-play scheme" and accused Trump of putting a "for sale" sign on the White House.

The White House did not respond to requests for comment, but Trump said Tuesday the larger ballroom is needed to accommodate more guests at official events, citing space limitations at a dinner for the Saudi crown prince. Congressional Democrats have written at least nine letters seeking more information about the ballroom donations. Blumenthal, who leads the Senate's Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations, sent inquiries to over 40 donors, including major corporations like Amazon, Microsoft, and Comcast, but just 16 have replied to his request for more informationand none of those disclosed how much they contributed. A source says Trump has raised more than necessary, a total of $350 million so far.
Verkhovna Rada Chairman Ruslan Stefanchuk has announced consultations regarding the situation that has developed in the legislative body following the release by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) of recordings of corruption at JSC NNEGC Energoatom.

"We are moving into consultation mode regarding the current situation. Therefore, we will provide additional information regarding the next meeting," Stefanchuk said at a plenary session of the Verkhovna Rada on Wednesday.

As reported by an Interfax-Ukraine agency correspondent, Stefanchuk announced a break in the plenary session.

As reported, the European Solidarity faction has initiated a signature drive calling for the resignation of Yulia Svyrydenko's government. Members of parliament are also demanding the dissolution of the current mono-majority and the formation of a new coalition. The opposition MPs' demands are also supported by their colleagues from other factions, particularly the Servant of the People faction.
Pope Leo XIV on Tuesday strongly backed US bishops who condemned the Trump administration's immigration crackdown, as he urged the American people to listen to them and treat migrants humanely. History's first American pope was asked about the "special message" the US Conference of Catholic Bishops adopted during their general assembly last week, which criticized the Trump administration's mass deportation of migrants and the "vilification" of them, reports the AP . It lamented the fear and anxiety immigration raids have sown in communities, and the denial of pastoral care to migrants in detention centers.

Leo, who has previously urged local bishops to take the lead on speaking out on matters of social justice, said he appreciated the US bishops' statement and urged Catholics and all people of goodwill to listen to what they said. "I think we have to look for ways of treating people humanely, treating people with the dignity that they have," said the Chicago-born Leo. "If people are in the United States illegally, there are ways to treat that. There are courts, there's a system of justice."

Acknowledging problems in the US migration system, Leo stressed that no one has said the US should have open borders, and that every country has the right to determine who can enter and how. "But when people are living good lives, and many of them for 10, 15, 20 years, to treat them in a way that is extremely disrespectful to say the leastand there's been some violence, unfortunatelyI think that the bishops have been very clear in what they said," he said. "I would just invite all people in the United States to listen to them."

Leo suggested that he is planning more travel starting in 2026, after his Rome commitments ease up with the end of the Holy Year. Asked if he would return to Peru, where he spent some 20 years as a missionary, Leo said "of course." But he also hinted at other possible destinations, including the Fatima shrine in Portugal, the Guadalupe shrine in Mexico, and visits to Argentina and Uruguay. "I love to travel, the problem is scheduling with all the commitments," he said. Leo next week will embark on his first foreign trip as pope, to Turkey and Lebanon.
A century-old letter from a Titanic passenger mourning a lost love named Rose is up for auction, drawing comparisons to the fictional romance at the heart of James Cameron's blockbuster film. The five-page letter was written by 21-year-old Ernest Tomlin, a third-class passenger, just hours after he clambered aboard the ill-fated ship in Southampton, England, in April 1912, per the New York Post .

Tomlin's letter, sent from the Titanic's last port of call in Queenstown, Ireland, speaks of heartbreak over a woman named Rose. Addressed to his family, he wrote, "Do not tell anybody, but I showed up to have a good cry 24 hours ago, which would give me back my Rose, but crying will not do that, will it?" Then, eerily: "I'm sorry to have to leave you all."

Tomlin was among the more than 1,500 people who died when the Titanic sank after hitting an iceberg just a few days after setting sail. Encyclopedia Titanica says he was one of 10 children and the son of a baker. The site notes that Tomlin had purchased his ticket on the doomed ship after deciding to return to Iowa's Drake University, where he'd previously attended its Bible College.

Tomlin's body was recovered after the maritime disaster, along with a water-stained diary that included a final entry simply reading: "Titanic." Tomlin's letter and diary are being auctioned together for $66,000 by Henry Aldridge & Son, with the sale scheduled for Saturday. More here on Tomlin's interesting middle name: Portage.
Poland's foreign minister said Wednesday that he will order the closure of the last Russian consulate still operating in the country after authorities said two Ukrainian citizens working for Moscow are suspected of blowing up a railway line in Poland. Radek Sikorski said he had repeatedly warned Russia that its diplomatic and consular presence would be reduced further if it didn't cease hostile actions against Poland, Polish news agency PAP reported. "This time it was an act of not only subversion, as happened before, but an act of state terror as its clear intention was to cause human casualties," Sikorski said. He added that Russia would be formally notified within hours, per the AP . The closure will leave Russia with only its embassy in Warsaw.

In response, Moscow will "reduce Poland's diplomatic and consular presence in Russia," the state news agency RIA Novosti cited Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova as saying. Poland's Prime Minister Donald Tusk has described the weekend explosion on a line linking Poland's capital, Warsaw, to the border with Ukraine as an "unprecedented act of sabotage." The blast damaged tracks near Mika, about 60 miles southeast of Warsaw. In a separate weekend incident, power lines were destroyed in the area of Pulawy, about 30 miles from Lublin in eastern Poland.

Asked about Sikorski's comments, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Russia's "relations with Poland have deteriorated completely. This is probably a manifestation of this degradation, of the desire of the Polish authorities to reduce to zero any possibility of consular or diplomatic ties. In this case, one can only express regret," Peskov told reporters.

On Tuesday, Tusk told the Polish parliament that the two suspects had been collaborating with the Russian secret services for a long time. He said their identities were known but could not be revealed because of the ongoing investigation, and that the pair had already left Poland, crossing into Belarus. Poland ordered the closure of two other Russian consulates in recent years. The consulate in Krakow was closed earlier this year after Poland determined that a fire that destroyed a shopping center in Warsaw in 2024 was the result of arson ordered by the Russian intelligence service.
Ted Cruz has quietly carved out a surprising niche as the most popular podcaster among US politicians, per a new report from Politico , which notes the Texas senator may be forging "a new path to the White House in today's changing political-media ecosystem." Cruz's show, Verdict With Ted Cruz , draws up to 2 million downloads a month, far outpacing rivals like Gavin Newsom, the second most popular podcaster coming out of lawmaker circles.

Cruz's podcasting journey began as a side project during President Trump's first impeachment in 2019 and has since become a staple of his political brand. The format is simple: Cruz and his co-host, conservative commentator Ben Ferguson, sift through topics chosen by Cruz's staff and record episodes that land in subscribers' feeds the next morning. The podcast's appeal, according to Cruz, is its informality and willingness to dive into the wonky details of law and politicsterritory rarely explored on cable news.

The rise of Cruz's podcast comes as the traditional media landscape continues to fragment, with voters increasingly turning to influencers and online personalities for their political takes. As a Cruz aide puts it, the show was created to give listeners "a behind-the-scenes look at what's really happening in Washington," and to cover issues "the mainstream media won't cover or will cover with bias." Cruz's podcast may offer a template for other politicians looking to build their own followings outside the bounds of legacy media.

Cruz has gone after other podcasters, including ex-Fox host and fellow conservative Tucker Carlson, which Axios believes is possibly his way of starting to ramp up for a 2028 presidential run, "staking out turf as a traditional, pro-interventionist Republican." Cruz's new status as a broadcaster of sorts has also led to some scathing criticism from him toward FCC chief Brendan Carr, specifically regarding Carr's threats to pull ABC's license after Jimmy Kimmel's comments on late conservative activist Charlie Kirk, per CNN.
A man convicted of fatally shooting a man and woman during a home invasion robbery and later confessing to three other killings is scheduled to be put to death in December under a death warrant signed Tuesday by Republican Gov. Ron DeSantis, who's setting a record pace for executions. Frank Athen Walls, 58, is scheduled to die by lethal injection on Dec. 18 at Florida State Prison, reports the AP . Walls would be the 19th person set for execution in Florida in 2025, with DeSantis overseeing more executions in a single year than any other Florida governor since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976. The previous record was set in 2014, with eight executions.

DeSantis signed the death warrant two days before the execution of Richard Barry Randolph. Another convicted killer, Mark Allen Geralds, is set to die on Dec. 9. Walls was convicted of murder, kidnapping, burglary, and theft and sentenced to death in 1988. The Florida Supreme Court later reversed the conviction and ordered a new trial, where Walls was again convicted and sentenced to death in 1992. Per court records, Walls broke into the Florida Panhandle mobile home of Eglin Air Force Base airman Edward Alger and his girlfriend, Ann Peterson, in July 1987. Walls tied the couple up, but Alger managed to break free and attack Walls. Walls cut Alger's throat, then shot him in the head when the airman kept fighting. Walls then shot Peterson as she struggled.

Walls was arrested the day after the bodies were found when his roommate tipped off police about Walls' odd behavior. During a search of the home, investigators reported finding items from the crime scene; Walls later admitted to the killings. After his conviction, DNA evidence linked Walls to the May 1987 rape and murder of Audrey Gygi. Walls pleaded no contest, avoiding another trial and possible death sentence in that case. Walls also admitted responsibility for the killings of Tommie Lou Whiddon in March 1985 and Cynthia Sue Condra in September 1986 as part of a deal with prosecutors.

Attorneys for Walls are expected to file appeals to the Florida Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court. So far, 43 people have been executed in the US in 2025. Florida leads the way with a flurry of death warrants signed by DeSantis. The state's most recent execution was the lethal injection last Thursday of Bryan Frederick Jennings, who was convicted of raping and killing his neighbor.
Israeli officials are raising alarms over the US plan to sell F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia a move they say risks eroding Israel's decisive edge in regional air power, largely based on its exclusive access to the aircraft. Israel's success with the F-35 is clear: It has not lost a single plane in recent conflicts and has leveraged the jet's stealth, range, and advanced battlefield sensors to maintain air superiority over rivals from Iran to Hezbollah. "Our air force is our insurance policy," Israel's former national security chief Eyal Hulata tells the Wall Street Journal , underscoring the F-35's central role in the country's defense strategy.

Israel had hoped President Trump would sell the jets only if Saudi Arabia agreed to normalize relations with Israel through the Abraham Accords, reports the Times of Israel. Though Israel and Saudi Arabia are not enemies, Israel worries that situation could change. And Saudi jets based in the most northern part of the country would be just minutes away from Israeli airspace. Israeli officials aren't just concerned about the Saudis. They fear that a sale would set a precedent, opening the door for other regional powers, like Egypt and Turkey, to seek the jet and could eventually make Israel's own F-35s more vulnerable, the Journal reports.

Israel's dominance is part of the reason Arab governments want access to the F-35. But Israel and the US have mechanisms in place to ensure Israel's qualitative military edge, and some officials tell the Journal that edge will continue through new technologies and new levels of cooperation. They add there's time to work out the details as it might be years before Saudi Arabia takes possession of the promised jets. Meanwhile, some analysts note the US and Israel could use the sale as leverage to encourage Saudi Arabia to normalize relations with Israel. However, the Saudis have reportedly said they'll only do that if Israel guarantees Palestinian statehood, per the Times. More on Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's visit to the White House, which included the F-35 deal, here.
He made a run for the Oval Office in 2020. Now billionaire philanthropist Tom Steyer has set his sights on the California governor's mansion. NBC News reports Steyer on Wednesday entered a crowded field aiming to succeed outgoing and term-limited Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsom, among them former Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra, ex-Rep. Katie Porter, and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa. On the Republican side, Riverside County Sheriff Chad Bianco and ex-Fox News host Steve Hilton are running. The state will hold a nonpartisan primary in June in which all candidates appear on one ballot and the two with the most votes move onto a general election.

In his announcement video, Steyer took aim at wealthy elites without mincing words: "The richest people in America think that they earned everything themselves. Bulls---, man. That's so ridiculous." He continues, "Californians deserve a life they can afford, but the Californians who make this state run are being run over by the cost of living," Steyer said. "Sacramento politicians are afraid to change this system. I'm not. They're going to hate this. Bring it on."

KCRA reports on his campaign promises: to shrink electric bills, build a million homes over a four-year term, make pre-school and community college free, and prohibit PAC money from being spent on state elections. Steyer made his estimated $2 billion fortune running a hedge fund before turning to progressive causes, where he's spent the last decade advocating for action on climate change and health care. His 2020 presidential campaign was largely self-funded, but failed to gain traction and ended before Super Tuesday.

The New York Times describes him as "little known to California voters but could overcome that disadvantage by funding his own campaign." It calls the field of candidates as "unusually fluid," with no candidate boasting enough support to yet be seen as a frontrunner. Still, Politico notes current polling doesn't spark much optimism regarding Steyer's chances: A survey this month out of UC Berkeley put his chances at 1%.
The Trump administration has been secretly collaborating with Russia on a new peace plan to end the war in Ukraine, according to officials from both countries who spoke to Axios . The proposed plan, which consists of 28 points, is said to be inspired by the Gaza peace deal brokered by President Trump. It covers four main areas: peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, broader European security, and the future of US relations with both Russia and Ukraine, according to Axios' sources. They say Ukraine has not been involved in the negotiations.

The details on how the plan addresses issues such as who controls what territory in eastern Ukraine remain unclear, especially as Russian forces continue to make slow gains in the region. The drafting process is being led by Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, who has spent considerable time in discussions with Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev. Dmitriev, who oversees Russia's sovereign wealth fund and is heavily involved in Ukraine diplomacy, told Axios he spent three days meeting with Witkoff and other Trump team members in Miami in late October.

He expressed optimism about the plan, saying "the Russian position is really being heard" in this round of negotiations. Dmitriev said the US effort is unrelated to a separate, UK-led push for a Gaza-style plan, which Dmitriev dismisses as disregarding Russia's positions. Witkoff was expected to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Turkey, but that meeting has been postponed. However, Witkoff did discuss the plan with Zelensky's national security adviser, Rustem Umerov, in Miami. A Ukrainian official acknowledged awareness of US efforts, saying, "We know the Americans are working on something."

The White House has begun briefing European officials about the plan and believes there is a realistic chance of garnering support from both Ukraine and its European allies, Axios reports. Sources tell Reuters that the US is pressuring Zelensky to accept the main points of the plan, including giving up territory and reducing the size of the country's military.
Japan in early November resumed exporting seafood to Chinabut those shipments look to be short-lived. As tensions rise between the two countries over new Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's Nov. 7 comments about potential military action against China if Taiwan were to be attacked, China on Wednesday said it was once again banning all such exports. Reuters quotes a Chinese Foreign Ministry rep as saying, "Under the current circumstances, even if Japanese seafood were to be exported to China, it would find no market."

Beijing previously banned all Japanese seafood in August 2023 over the country's decision to release treated radioactive wastewater from its Fukushima power plant. Nearly 700 Japanese exporters applied to resume shipments after China partially lifted restrictions in June, but only three have been approved so far. Chinese officials reportedly said on Wednesday that the move was made because it still had Fukushima-related concernsJapan has "so far failed" to supply documents that would establish the quality and safety of its seafood, NBC News cites officials as saying. But the Guardian reports the ban "has been widely received as part of China's retaliatory measures amid a deepening diplomatic row with Japan."

China previously accounted for more than 20% of Japan's seafood exports, including scallops and sea cucumbers. The fresh tension between the countries has led to a sharp drop in Chinese tourism to Japan, with around half a million tickets canceled and more than 10 Chinese airlines offering refunds on Japan-bound flights. Tourism makes up about 7% of Japan's GDP, and visitors from China and Hong Kong represent about a fifth of all arrivals. NBC News adds at least two Japanese-made films have also seen their releases postponed in China.
Ryan Wedding was once a Canadian Olympic snowboarder. Now he's "a modern-day iteration of Pablo Escobar. He's a modern-day iteration of 'El Chapo' Guzman," said FBI Director Kash Patel Wednesday in announcing the reward for the 44-year-old's capture has been raised to $15 million (it had been upped to $10 million in March ). The CBC reports Patel was joined by Attorney General Pam Bondi and RCMP Commissioner Michael Duheme at a new conference in which Bondi said the DOJ is charging the alleged drug kingpin with "two additional counts of witness tampering and intimidation, money laundering, and drug trafficking."

Wedding, who participated in the 2002 Games and now sits on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted Fugitives List, allegedly orchestrated the January 2025 killing of a federal witness at a restaurant in Colombia and is accused of directing dozens of murders in North America and Latin America. ABC News reports the new charges against Wedding relate to the murder of that witness, who died instantly after being shot five times in the head. Officials allege Wedding "placed a bounty on the victim's head in the erroneous belief that the victim's death would result in the dismissal of criminal charges against him." Wedding and 14 others, his lawyer among them, are charged with orchestrating the murder.

According to law enforcement, Wedding's operation has trafficked more than $1 billion worth of cocaine from Colombia and Mexico into the US and Canada. "He controls one of the most prolific and violent drug trafficking organizations in this world," Bondi said. "His organization is responsible for importing approximately six metric tons of cocaine a year into Los Angeles via semi trucks from Mexico."

Fox News reports Wedding's first brush with the law came in 2006 when he was named in connection with a major marijuana grow in British Columbia, though no charges were filed at the time. He was arrested in the US in 2009 on cocaine charges, served four years, and later faced additional drug charges in Nova Scotia in 2015 before disappearing. He is believed to use several aliases, including "El Jefe," "Giant," "Jesse King," and "Public Enemy."
Why was the railway to Iran built through Armenia in Soviet times, and not Azerbaijan? If we Google it, we get a lot of cheerful explanations, the general meaning of which boils down to the fact that the reason was some economic factors, not political motives and not the preference of one union republic for another. The logic was not national, but, allegedly, administrative and economic. However, there is another way of looking at the issue: the Soviet government did not want to connect Northern and Southern Azerbaijan with communications.

In this approach, the positions of the USSR and Iran have always coincided, and the Iranian side, apparently, continues to adhere to them until now. It is possible that for this reason, every initiative of Baku is met with caution and doubts.

Recently, the Orbeli 2025 Forum on "Building Peace and Multilateral Cooperation" was held in Yerevan. Armenia has recently been making persistent attempts to assume the role of the logistics hub of the region, and is trying very hard to promote its capabilities in this context. However, in most cases, the issues are considered only in theory, since no idea has yet reached practical implementation, with the possible exception of TRIPP (Zangezur Corridor). Although there are signs that this project will be delayed for a long time at the idea stage. The Armenian government is going to start implementing it only after the parliamentary elections, that is, it links the issue with the political situation, which is fundamentally the wrong approach.

The dream of taking a prominent position in regional logistics in Armenia is mainly associated with Iran. And they always did. During the years of Armenian independence, as is well known, repeated attempts were made to build a railway to Iran. The fact is that in Soviet times, a segment of the route went through the Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic - through the Azerbaijani Julfa, and with the outbreak of the Karabakh conflict, communications became inaccessible to the Armenian side. For thirty years, the issue of connecting Iran and Armenia by rail has been raised more than once. But this would require laying 300 kilometers of tracks, building 60 tunnels and 64 bridges, spending more than three billion dollars on this. None of the parties was capable of such a scale, and external investors were in no hurry to spend money on a dead-end project.

Now the need for this project has disappeared, because with the end of the conflict, Iran hopes to restore traffic through the NAR. These hopes were clearly expressed during the forum in Yerevan. With the opening of the Julfa crossing, the Iranian side expects to become a link between the Persian Gulf and the Black Sea. Iran hopes that it will be able to regain the role of a link between the West and the East, which it played in previous centuries, but the problem is that this place has already been occupied. While others were weighing, doubting, scrupulously measuring, trying not to lose money, to grasp everything at once and as soon as possible, curtailing the interests of other actors, Azerbaijan was building. Today, he is fully equipped, because all his projects, including those that were predicted to fail, turned out to be strategically important and necessary. Azerbaijan firmly occupies the position of the most stable, secure and politically neutral transit country, and it is unlikely that anyone will be able to change this. And, of course, not everyone likes it.

At the forum in Yerevan, the Iranian speakers presented a map of the region, which for some reason lacked the communication lines already built by Azerbaijan in the liberated territories. Although the realization of Iran's dream of opening a link through Julfa depends precisely on the success of the Zangezur corridor project, the Armenian section of which is called TRIPP. The Iranian and Armenian sides cannot expect Azerbaijan to open traffic through Julfa until this issue is resolved. The Azerbaijani side has not yet received any dividends from its peacefulness. It has already created conditions for the transit of goods to Armenia, and Baku is unlikely to take another altruistic step if its interests remain only on paper.

The absence of Azerbaijani projects on the map did not escape the attention of experts.

"It is not surprising that the Iranian expert expressed interest in the routes Julfa-Nakhchivan-Yerevan-Gyumri-Kars and Julfa-Nakhchivan-Yerevan-Gyumri-Tbilisi-Poti. The changing realities in the region undoubtedly excited everyone. But the fact that the railway lines Barda-Aghdam and Goradiz-Aghband were not indicated on the map presented by him is already a denial of the real facts. Not accepting reality is not politics, it's just self-deception. The maps presented by the Iranian speaker do not show routes that have already been built or are under construction in Azerbaijan. You may not like us, but you can't ignore us," said Rauf Agamirzaev, an expert on transport and logistics.

The Barda-Agdam-Khankendi railway plays the role of the main logistical gateway of Karabakh. This line is of strategic importance in terms of the restoration of cargo and passenger traffic in the region, the integration of new production and trade areas. To exclude this reality from ready-made maps is to turn your analysis into nothing, Agamirzaev believes. The Goradiz-Agband line, as the Azerbaijani part of the Zangezur corridor, forms the main transit artery of the region. According to the expert, any forecast made without taking into account the scale of this project automatically loses its seriousness.

"Trains are already running to Aghdam, a railway has been extended to the border Agband, a bridge has been built across the Araz, and the Iranian side promises to open the automobile segment of the Araz corridor in March next year. The existing infrastructure makes it possible to diversify transit routes in the region, which makes it particularly attractive. The Zangezur corridor, promoted by Azerbaijan, is unique in that it can function as both West-East and North-South.

If we take a closer look at the map, which was demonstrated by Iranian experts at an event in Yerevan, we will see that the infrastructure built by Azerbaijan simply does not exist on it. Only the route from Julfa through Armenia to Georgia and the Georgian ports is indicated. Iran's interest is understandable. It is more interesting for them to reach Turkey and the Black Sea ports through Armenia. That's understandable. But let's take a look at the map that was presented again. This is the map that, apparently, is in their head," the expert said.

Agamirzayev recalled that a few days ago, representatives of diplomatic missions accredited in Azerbaijan were invited to get acquainted with the Goradiz-Agbend railway and the Goradiz-Jabrail-Zangelan-Agbend highway. That is, all parties know how things are at the moment. Therefore, the expert noted, the map presented at the forum in Yerevan raises serious questions. We already have a physical infrastructure, we have a train going to Agdam every Saturday, we have freight transportation in the direction of East Zangezur to Gumlag station. The rail-sleeper grid has already been laid to the village of Agaly, work is actively underway, and next year we will fully complete the project. Is it possible to ignore all this?

According to the expert, there is a route through Julfa not only towards Armenia, but also towards Imishli, and from there to Agjabedi. The Agjabedi-Agdam gap is also planned to be built. The Barda-Agdam to Yevlakh road with access to the Georgian railway and further to the Black Sea ports is already ready. There is also an exit from Julfa to Hajigabul and further along the BTK to the Georgian ports.

If we talk about the automobile route, then, according to our interlocutor, from Julfa you can go towards Akhmedbeyli, and from there along the Jabrayil-Agdam-Yevlakh route with access further to the border with Georgia. The Agbend-Khudaferin-Gubadli-Lachin road and the Lachin-Kalbajar road, passing under the Murovdag ridge, are under construction. The tunnel is scheduled to be commissioned in 2026. The road opens onto the main highway that will connect Azerbaijan with the Black Sea ports.

"By the way, we still have a way out of Astara. Azerbaijan provides many opportunities, which helps to minimize risks. But each cargo carrier, of course, has the right to choose the route itself. Azerbaijan does not impose its roads on anyone. But the absence of projects already implemented in Azerbaijan at the Iranian presentation in Yerevan raises many questions. Why was such a map presented if there is already a physically functioning infrastructure on earth, and it works for the benefit of all? Our projects are aimed both at increasing the transit potential of Azerbaijan and at developing the transport and logistics capabilities of the entire region.

If you look at the general plan of Agdam, you can see the railway exits forming a triangle below. One line goes to Khankendi, the other will connect to Agjabedi in the future. There will be a connection between Aghdam and Aghjabedi. The trains will leave on Yevlakh, and from there proceed to Tbilisi. It is very important. The infrastructure that is being built in Karabakh makes it possible to access different destinations, ports, highways and corridors. Local enterprises will be able to export their products to the Caspian, Black Sea ports, and the Persian Gulf, and through the Zangezur corridor to Iraq and through the Hijaz Road to the Middle East. Through Mersin, there is access to Southern Europe and Northern Africa, and via the Turkish railway network to the European Union.

And yet, our routes run along the plain, while the Armenian ones are complicated by the mountainous terrain. This should also not be forgotten, especially when it comes to the railway. Azerbaijan is the main player in shaping the new transport map of the region. Our projects, unlike those of our neighbors, are not on paper or in dreams, but are being implemented. It's easy to remove lines from the map, but it's impossible to erase roads from reality," said Rauf Agamirzaev.
Food security depends on supporting national production and ensuring the normal functioning of international trade, says Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration of Ukraine Taras Kachka.

"Food security is a complex task that we have always addressed, even before the large-scale war began, and especially since the Russian Federation's full-scale aggression started. It begins with effective production within each state's territory," he said during the opening of the IV International Food Security Summit Food from Ukraine in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Kachka noted that for Ukraine, food security is an internal and external issue. He thanked international organizations and donors for providing humanitarian assistance to ensure food security in Ukraine, a country with many vulnerable people, including internally displaced persons and victims of shelling who need help immediately.

"The UN Food Programme is also working in Ukraine to help Ukrainians. Therefore, we understand how important it is to preserve and develop national production," he stressed.

The Deputy Prime Minister stressed the importance of establishing cooperation with countries that depend on food imports and need to strengthen production and develop farming so that "the stability of food supplies never depends on aggression and hostilities."

"It is important for us to ensure the normal functioning of international trade since Ukrainian exports are indeed decisive in many countries. When we talk about a 7% share of exports [of grain] or a 13% share of international trade [in agricultural products], this means that an absence of these products on the international market would lead to high prices and shortages. The stable operation of international trade systems, including logistics, customs duties, and other rules, is extremely important," Kachka emphasized.

The Deputy Prime Minister expressed confidence that supporting national production and international trade will ensure food security and create stability and predictability for people's nutrition.
A fierce blizzard that packed winds nearing 110mph led to the deaths of five tourists in Torres del Paine National Park in Chile's Patagonia region, officials confirmed Tuesday. The victims, identified as two Mexican nationals, two Germans, and one Brit, were part of a group that went missing amid weather that authorities characterized as "extreme, with strong winds, snowfall, and sub-zero temperatures." People reports four other hikers from the group were found alive, according to Chile's National Forestry Corporation. The BBC identifies the British victim as Victoria Bond, 40, a PR consultant from Cornwall. Her employer says she was on a "trip of lifetime" with friends.

Reuters reports an official said the tourists became lost while near the park's Los Perros camp, which one must trek four or five hours to reach. Rescuers closed the park's 81-mile Paine Massif circuit to conduct search and rescue operations after the hikers were reported missing on Monday. Outside Online flags a Facebook post by a tourist who was at the camp and shared that hikers who had set out on the Paine Massif Circuit were stuck near the John Garner Pass due to the storm.

CNN cites Torres del Paine mayor Anahi Cardenas as telling local media the tourists did not have a tour guide with them. She described the mountain circuit as "complex" but attributed the deaths to the weather. Outside Online reports that "November is spring in Patagonia, which is marked by highly dynamic weather patterns that can change rapidly."
Nvidia reported more eye-catching numbers for its fiscal third quarter Wednesday, with net income jumping 65% and revenue increasing 62% from a year earlier. The results may ease recent jitters about a Big Tech boom turning into a bust that topples the world's most valuable company, the AP reports. The results announced late Wednesday provided a pulse check on the frenzied spending on AI technology that has been fueling both the stock market and much of the overall economy since OpenAI released its ChatGPT three years ago.

Nvidia has been by far the biggest beneficiary of the run-up because its processors have become indispensable for building the AI factories that are needed to enable what's supposed to be the most dramatic shift in technology since Apple released the iPhone in 2007. But in the past few weeks, there has been a rising tide of sentiment that the high expectations for AI may have become far too frothy, setting the stage for a jarring comedown that could be just as dramatic as the ascent that transformed Nvidia from a company worth less than $400 billion three years ago to one worth $4.5 trillion today.

Nvidia's report for its fiscal third quarter covering the August-October period now seems likely to elicit a sigh of relief among those fretting about a worst-case scenario. The company's stock price gained more than 4% in Wednesday's extended trading after the numbers came out. Nvidia earned $31.9 billion, or $1.30 per share, a 65% increase from the same time last year, while revenue climbed 62% to $57 billion. Analysts polled by FactSet Research had forecast earnings of $1.26 per share on revenue of $54.9 billion.

What's more, the company predicted its revenue for the current quarter covering November-January will come in at about $65 billion, nearly $3 billion above analysts' projections, in an indication that demand for its AI chips remains feverish. The incoming orders for Nvidia's top-of-the-line Blackwell chip are "off the charts," Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang said in a prepared statement that described the current market conditions as "a virtuous cycle." The company's stock price gained more than 5% in Wednesday's extended trading after the numbers came out.
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SAPPORO, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Hokkaido hosted a company briefing session in Sapporo aimed at students and career changers on November 19th as part of an effort to energize the regions space-related industries.

Kawase Yuya reported from the venue that companies operating in the field are stepping up recruitment efforts as they seek new talent to sustain the industrys growth.

The event, titled SPACE GATEWAY 2025 in HOKKAIDO, was organized by the prefectural government to promote the space sector. Five companies, including those involved in the use of satellite data, took part and held explanatory sessions for attendees.

A representative from one of the participating firms noted that the number of domestically produced satellites is gradually increasing, adding that they hope to see nationwide expansion of space-related industries.

Now in its third year, the fair is part of Hokkaidos broader push to raise interest in space-related careers and encourage more people to join the field.

Source: UHB
OSAKA, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Osaka prosecutors have decided not to indict a 21-year-old man from Shizuoka Prefecture in a case where the body of a Russian woman was discovered in a multi-unit residence in Osaka City in July, concluding on October 18th that the evidence did not warrant pursuing charges.

The man had been arrested on suspicion of robbery-murder after allegedly beating the woman, the resident of the unit in Osakas Naniwa Ward, dozens of times before strangling her and taking 15,000 yen in cash. Prosecutors did not disclose the specific reason for the decision but stated that it was made in light of the evidence.

Following his arrest, the man remained silent during police questioning, and from August through this month he had been held for psychiatric evaluation to determine his criminal responsibility.

Source: YOMIURI
MONTREAL, Nov. 19, 2025 /CNW/ - Lyft's expansion into Quebec is about more than helping people get around; we're here to forge lasting bonds through community partnerships. Today, we are proud to announce that Lyft's Round Up & Donate program is now live in Quebec, giving riders an easy way to support local causes with every ride.

Lyfts local Montreal team came together with key partners for the launch of Round Up & Donate: Jerry Golden, Chief Policy Officer, Lyft; Maria Allaham, Public Policy Manager, Lyft; Shadawn Reddick-Smith, Senior Manager, Policy Communications, Lyft; Celia Moreno, Senior Manager, Social Impact, Lyft; and Raphael Richard, Business Development and Philanthropy Advisor, Centraide of Greater Montreal. (CNW Group/Lyft)

Riders can opt in to round up their fare to the nearest dollar and donate the difference to a Quebec organization. Lyft is partnering with three local charities to launch the program in the province: Centraide of Greater Montreal, La rue des Femmes, and Maison du Pere.

Since launching Round Up & Donate in 2017, Lyft riders have donated over $42 million to causes across communities in the United States and Canada. Now, riders in Quebec can join this movement of everyday giving that makes a real difference.

To kick off this effort, we are proud to announce CAD$30,000 in initial local investments, supporting non-profit community organizations, including CAD$10,000 each to the three organizations participating in the Round Up & Donate program.

Contributing to the Community

Lyft is committed to being a force for good in every community we serve, which is why we are working with three high-impact nonprofit partners as part of our Round Up & Donate launch in Quebec. When riders round up their fare through the app, they can choose to support any of these incredible local organizations serving the community:

Centraide of Greater Montreal raises and distributes funds to support over 350 community agencies, fighting poverty and social exclusion by addressing its root causes and supporting vulnerable populations through programs focused on food security, housing, education, youth support, and mental health.

raises and distributes funds to support over 350 community agencies, fighting poverty and social exclusion by addressing its root causes and supporting vulnerable populations through programs focused on food security, housing, education, youth support, and mental health. La rue des Femmes provides shelter, care, and long-term healing services for women experiencing homelessness through their unique relational health approach, offering emergency housing, psychological support, and reintegration programs.

provides shelter, care, and long-term healing services for women experiencing homelessness through their unique relational health approach, offering emergency housing, psychological support, and reintegration programs. Maison du Pere serves unhoused men in Montreal with emergency shelter, meals, health care, addiction support, reintegration services, permanent supportive housing, and specialized care for older men experiencing chronic homelessness.

"Serving and connecting communities means showing up with more than just rides--it means showing up with heart," said Jerry Golden, Lyft Chief Policy Officer. "Through Round Up & Donate, riders can turn spare change from every trip into meaningful support for Quebec organizations combating poverty and homelessness."

"It takes a whole network. When a person needs help, a whole network mobilizes. Centraide of Greater Montreal supports a network of over 375 community agencies and collective projects that fight against poverty and social exclusion. Through programs like Lyft's Round Up & Donate, everyday riders contribute micro-donations that help us fund this vital network."  Raphael Richard, Business Development and Philanthropy Advisor at the Centraide of Greater Montreal.

"La rue des Femmes is proud to announce its partnership with Lyft," said Natalie Labinger, Philanthropic Development Coordinator at La rue des Femmes." Thanks to this committed new ally, our organization will be able to offer even more support to women experiencing homelessness as they work toward social reintegration and the rebuilding of their relational health. A heartfelt thank you to Lyft for helping make this project a reality."

"At the Fondation de la Maison du Pere, we believe that meaningful change happens when communities and companies come together with purpose. Through Lyft's Round Up & Donate program, riders can make a tangible difference in the lives of men experiencing homelessness -- helping them regain stability, health, and hope. This partnership demonstrates how innovation and compassion can move our society forward, one ride at a time."  Lizette Flores, Executive Director at the Fondation de la Maison du Pere.

Ready to Round Up & Donate?

Participating in Round Up & Donate is easy. Riders only have to open their Lyft apps, tap their profile, tap "Donate," choose an organization close to their heart, and set it and forget it. Lyft will automatically round up your fares and donate the difference to the charity of their choice.

Since 2017, over 100 million donations averaging just 38 cents each have added up to real impact for causes our community cares about. Now it's Quebec's turn to join this movement.

Riders can sign up for Round Up & Donate here .

SOURCE Lyft

Media Contact: Donny Nordlicht, Head of Internal Communications, Lyft, [email protected]
Multi-billionaire fund manager Gavin Baker gives the overview of the state of AI.

Nextbigfuture identified the AI data center scaling of google and XAI over a year ago.

AI Scaling Laws are Intact.

Four leaders in AI  Google, xAI, OpenAI and Anthropic.

BUT Google and XAI will pull away with faster and more compute scaling.

Nvidia is still dominant.

Best models are still coming mid-2026 using B300 chips.

AI Scaling Laws are Intact

Gemini 3 is the strongest evidence since o1 that pre-training scaling laws still hold.

Expect large jumps from Blackwell-trained models in Q2 2026.

GPT-5 was intentionally a smaller, cheaper-to-infer model (router-based), not a max-performance push  not evidence of scaling slowdown.

Frontier Model Landscape

(Emerging Oligopoly)Google  Currently pulling ahead. Lowest-cost high-quality tokens, massive coherent TPU fabric advantage.

xAI  Close second on cost/quality. Grok 4.1 leverages huge coherent GPU clusters. Google + xAI clearly best models right now.

Anthropic & OpenAI  Both have strong unreleased checkpoints, but currently behind Google/xAI in public model quality (OpenAI in 3rd place for the first time).

Meta  Small chance to stay competitive because Chinese open-source is only ~9 months behind Metas Llama series.

China open-source  Falling further behind. DeepSeek hasnt released a new frontier model in a year, Huawei H20 issues persist. Blackwell gap + US rare-earth ramp will widen this dramatically.

Nvidia Dominance

Nvidia remains overwhelmingly dominant due to Blackwell (B300 variant now ramping smoothly after a rocky start with B200 delays, mask changes, canceled variants, and extreme datacenter complexity).

Blackwell delivers superior coherent FLOPs and tokens-per-watt, the two metrics that matter most going forward.

Power shortages make tokens/watt the key decision driver  favors general-purpose GPUs over custom ASICs; most non-Google ASIC programs likely dead.

Hopper rental prices are still rising and even A100s remain highly profitable  GPU useful life likely over 6 years, financing costs dropping further.

Blackwell will dramatically widen the gap vs Chinese domestic silicon (much bigger lag vs Blackwell than vs Hopper), further entrenching Nvidias moat.

Reasoning Flywheel & Rising Barriers

Reasoning models (o1-style, Gemini 3, etc.) create the classic internet flywheel: users  high-quality interaction data  better models  more users.

Pre-reasoning era had only pre-training data scaling. Now post-training/reasoning data is a new, proprietary, compounding moat.

All four U.S. leaders (Google, xAI, Anthropic, OpenAI) have much better internal checkpoints than public releases  very hard for anyone to catch up.

Other Key Themes

Power shortages are bullish: act as a natural governor against overbuild, extend cycle length and smoothness; push decisions toward tokens/watt (Blackwell wins).

Optics (optical interconnect) becoming critical for multi-campus training and moving workloads to cheap/available power. Also ironically helps China offset some compute deficit (at cost of much higher power draw).

Hyperscaler ROIC still higher than pre-AI capex ramp. Early signs of real enterprise productivity gains appearing in S&P 500 earnings.

Overall token demand (driven by customer ROI) is what matters for the sector. Individual leader share battles (OpenAI losing ground) wont kill the secular growth story.

Bottom line from Gavin Baker

We are still very early. Next decade will be steady progress driven by compute scaling, reasoning flywheels, and power/tokens-per-watt optimization, with Nvidia, Google, and xAI as the biggest structural winners.
Singapore, Singapore, November 19th, 2025, CyberNewsWire

The collaboration advances enterprise grade application security into decentralized ecosystems, uniting Checkmarxs AppSec expertise with Web3 specialization by CredShields.

CredShields, a leading Web3 security firm, has partnered with Checkmarx, the global leader in agentic AI-powered application security testing, to work with AI-driven smart contract audits, vulnerability research, and blockchain security tooling from CredShields to work alongside the Checkmarx application security platform.

As the application security market accelerates toward an expected US $55 billion by 2029, decentralized architectures introduce new attack surfaces that traditional AppSec programs are not designed to address. Nearly half of the largest DeFi breaches trace back to smart contract flaws, and in 2025 to date, losses from cryptocurrency service hacks already surpass US $2.1 billion and are projected to climb further. Research further indicates that up to 89% of smart contracts contain vulnerabilities, highlighting the need for Web3-native security standards alongside legacy security frameworks.

Through this agreement, Checkmarx is adding CredShields as a Web3 security partner to provide customers with dedicated support for decentralized environments. The collaboration combines Checkmarxs enterprise AppSec leadership with deep expertise in smart contract auditing, vulnerability assessment, and blockchain security research from CredShields, enabling organizations to extend their existing DevSecOps programs into Web3 with minimal friction.

This partnership represents a natural evolution in the AppSec landscape, said Shashank, Co-founder of CredShields. Together with Checkmarx, were delivering a seamless layer of security that protects enterprise systems, decentralized applications, and smart contracts with the same rigor and intelligence.

The partnership will focus on:

Comprehensive security coverage for decentralized applications, smart contracts, and wallets

AI-assisted vulnerability detection and manual audits powered by CredShields proprietary systems

Joint contributions to global security frameworks, including OWASP Smart Contract Security Standards and Smart Contract Top 10

Enterprise enablement to integrate Web3 security into existing DevSecOps pipelines

As enterprises extend their digital footprint into Web3, new attack surfaces emerge, said Scott Sieper, Director of Product Management at Checkmarx. Partnering with CredShields enables us to bring our deep AppSec expertise to blockchain environments and help organizations innovate with confidence while maintaining the same rigorous security standards they expect from Checkmarx.

Checkmarx and CredShields aim to redefine enterprise application security for the decentralized era, ensuring that innovation and security evolve in parallel as organizations adopt blockchain at scale.

For more information about securing code at the speed of AI and the Checkmarx One platform, users can visit the website.

About CredShields

CredShields is a Web3 security firm specializing in manual smart contract audits, AI-powered vulnerability detection, and security automation across blockchain ecosystems. A contributor to the OWASP Smart Contract Top 10, CredShields protects leading protocols and enterprises through full-spectrum decentralized security solutions.

Users can watch the demo: https://lnk.credshields.com/checkmarx-demo

Contact

CredShields

[email protected]


Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andriy Sybiha welcomed the visit of government officials from Syria to participate in the IV International Food Security Summit.

"I became the first European foreign minister to visit Syria after the overthrow of the Bashar al-Assad regime. And I am very pleased to welcome a delegation of high-ranking officials and government officials from Syria today. This is very important for us," he said at the opening of the IV International Food Security Summit Food from Ukraine in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Sybiha recalled last year's trip to Damascus, which took place on December 30. Then he held talks with the leadership of the Syrian administration - its leader Ahmed al-Sharaa, Prime Minister Mohammed al-Bashir and Foreign Minister Asaad Hassan Al-Shaibani.

"This trip was dictated by a principled approach: providing food aid to those who need it most. We immediately consolidated international efforts to deliver free food to Syria," the Foreign Minister emphasized.

He thanked partners, in particular Great Britain, Germany, Norway and relevant international organizations, in cooperation with which Ukraine has delivered food to Syria.

"And we will continue to do so," said Sybiha.
Since the launch of the Grain from Ukraine program, Austria has already provided assistance to the initiative in the amount of EUR 9.6 million and is allocating another EUR 2 million for its continuation in the form of Food from Ukraine, Austrian Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker said at the IV International Summit Food from Ukraine.

"As a close friend, a reliable partner, and a strong supporter, Austria firmly supports Ukraine. Thus far, we have provided over EUR 348 million in financial and humanitarian assistance, and we will continue to provide as much assistance as needed. Austria strongly condemns Russia's brutal and illegal war of aggression. Together, we must work toward a just and lasting peace based on international law," Stocker said at the opening of the fourth International Food Security Summit, Food from Ukraine, in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Stocker stressed that the Austrian government also supports the Food from Ukraine initiative.

"This project is a symbol of solidarity and plays a key role in helping the more than 673 million people suffering from hunger worldwide. Russia's war continues to damage global food security, and the poorest and most vulnerable are suffering the most Solidarity matters. Resilience matters. Food security must remain a global priority," said the Austrian chancellor.

He emphasized Ukraine's important role as a key agricultural country in ensuring global food stability and solidarity.

"We have already contributed EUR 9.6 million to the Grain from Ukraine initiative. I am pleased to announce an additional EUR 2 million to support these vital efforts," he concluded.

He added that Austria will continue to support Ukraine through solidarity, partnership, and concrete actions.
Norway to allocate $3 mln to Food from Ukraine, $9 mln for those affected by war in Ukraine

Norway has announced a contribution of $3 million to the Food from Ukraine program, and will also allocate $9 million for food security for children and needy people in Ukraine, said Norway's Minister of International Development Asmund Grver Aukrust.

"Russia's terrible war has affected vulnerable people on all continents. We are amazed at Ukraine's achievements. We have regained control of the Black Sea grain corridor, allowing food exports from Ukraine to resume. Despite threats and attacks on ports, this corridor has been successful," he said at the opening of the fourth International Food Security Summit, Food from Ukraine, in Kyiv on Wednesday.

Aukrust noted the significant impact of the Grain from Ukraine program, highlighting Ukraine's potential to contribute to global food security alongside international partners and address hunger in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East.

"For Norway, preventing hunger is a key element of our food security strategy. Preventing hunger in areas of conflict and war is one of the most important aspects of our humanitarian strategy. Therefore, Grain from Ukraine is important to us and helps us achieve this goal," he stressed.

Aukrust announced that Norway will allocate an additional $3 million to Food from Ukraine to help provide food to people in Gaza, Sudan, and Syria. This will increase the total funding for the project, which began as Grain from Ukraine, to $20 million by 2025.

Additionally, Norway announced a $9 million contribution to the UN World Food Programme to support food security for war-affected children and vulnerable people in Ukraine.

"Norway will continue to stand by Ukraine politically, militarily, humanitarily, and civically," the Norwegian Minister of International Development assured.
UNSC, OSCE PA to meet on Thurs following Russia's killing of civilians in Ternopil - Sybiha

Photo: MFA of Ukraine

A meeting of the UN Security Council and the OSCE Permanent Council will be held on Thursday, November 20, following the Russian attack on Ternopil, which killed at least 25 people, Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha announced.

"Tomorrow, at the UN Security Council meeting, Ukraine will highlight Russia's horrific murder of at least 25 people, including three children, in Ternopil. We call for condemnation, justice, and a decisive response. We have already contacted all our partners and international organizations, informing them of the consequences of the attack," Sybiha wrote on social media.

He noted that Ukraine is calling for additional air defense assets and other equipment to protect its people amid Russia's brutal attacks.

"I have also instructed all our embassies to lower their flags and open their mourning books," the minister added.

He also announced that a meeting of the OSCE Permanent Council will take place tomorrow. Ukraine expects it to "clearly and loudly" condemn the new wave of Russian terror as yet another gross violation of all the principles of the Helsinki Final Act.
The UN will expand support for agricultural land demining, irrigation system restoration and seed system sustainability in Ukraine, said Rosemary DiCarlo, UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs.

"It has been nearly four years since the Russian Federation launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, in blatant violation of the UN Charter and international law. The war has not only taken thousands of lives, destroyed countless Ukrainian towns and villages, and displaced millions of people. It has also disrupted global supply routes and vital Ukrainian food exports," she said during the opening of the IV International Food Security Summit Food from Ukraine in Kyiv on Wednesday.

DiCarlo cited data from the UN report on the state of food security and nutrition in the world, according to which 673 million people continue to face hunger, which is more than 8% of the world's population.

"In this context, the importance of agricultural exports from Ukraine is unquestionable. Despite the ongoing war, and the wide-spread damage to infrastructure, Ukrainian farmers continue to produce and export grain and oilseeds that feed markets worldwide. According to the estimates by the International Grain Council this season, Ukraine accounts for over 13 per cent of global maize exports, and over seven per cent of global wheat exports," DiCarlo emphasized.

She recalled that 15-16 million hectares of Ukrainian farmland are contaminated with mines, with almost a third of farms affected in frontline regions. As a result, the UN has helped protect and restore the cultivation of more than 7.5 million tonnes of grain and oilseed crops in Ukraine since the end of 2022.

Acknowledging the fundamental role of Ukraine and the Black Sea routes to global food markets, the UN Secretary-General Guterres and Turkiye brokered the Black Sea Initiative in 2022. The aim of this Initiative was to benefit Ukrainian farmers and consumers worldwide by enabling the safe transportation of nearly 33 million metric tonnes of grains and other foodstuffs to 45 countries, across three continents.

Following the expiry of the Black Sea Initiative and the establishment by Ukraine of a new corridor for its exports in 2023, the United Nations has continued to provide its support.

"The United Nations position remains consistent and principled: We continue to call for a full, immediate and unconditional ceasefire. A ceasefire that can help pave the way for a just, lasting and comprehensive peace in Ukraine, in full respect for Ukraines sovereignty and territorial integrity, in line with the UN Charter, international law, and relevant UN resolutions," DiCarlo emphasized.
New Jersey uses annual School Performance Report data to rate public schools on a 0 to 100 scale. Canva Illustration

Want to see exactly how your towns New Jersey schools compare to those around them? Thanks to data from the state Department of Education, its easier than ever to find the answer.

Data released annually, called the School Performance Report, provides a way for parents to see how well schools are performing. The most recent data released last spring comes from the 2023-24 school year and breaks down the performance of nearly 2,500 public schools. (Look up your schools rating and score in the chart below.)

In the data, each New Jersey public school is given a score from 0 to 100, called a summative score.

The overall scores for each school are calculated using standardized test scores, student academic growth, graduation rates and other factors, including chronic absenteeism.

Half the score is based on the overall student body, and half the score is focused on certain groups of students, including special education students or low-income students.

Each school is also given a summative rating that compares how it performed against similar schools. So, schools with similar grade levels are compared to each other using a percentile scale from 0 to 100.

The summative scores are given for three groupings: high schools; elementary and middle schools; and mixed grade configuration schools.

How to interpret the scores

The state Department of Education, education experts and local teachers unions have historically cautioned parents against putting too much stock in the ratings.

The scores and ratings are a good starting point to evaluate a school, experts say. But its important to consider other elements of a school that cant be boiled down into a single test score-based scale. Those outside factors include a schools community culture and the type of extracurricular activities offered.

Parents should talk to other parents and teachers, and stay involved at their childs school if they want a fuller picture, the New Jersey Education Association, the states largest teachers union, has said in the past.

Why New Jersey rates schools

States are required by federal law to collect and publish data that can meaningfully capture and differentiate school performance. Some states use a report card scale, grading schools from A to F, while others use terms like great, good or excellent.

New Jersey has used a 0 to 100 numerical scale since 2018. The summative ratings and scores were not published during the pandemic because of disruptions to standardized testing and a lack of absenteeism tracking.

Why some schools are missing from the list

Elementary schools that exclusively serve students younger than third grade do not receive a score because their students do not participate in state testing. Some other schools did not receive a score because the state did not have complete data for 2023-24.

Cant see the chart? Click here.

Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting NJ.com with a subscription.

Katie Kausch may be reached at kkausch@njadvancemedia.com. Follow her on Twitter @KatieKausch.
Osteria 545, an Italian restaurant in Paulsboro, announced this week the business plans to close after five years due to rising costs. Canva for NJ.com

Osteria 545, an Italian restaurant and bar in Paulsboro, plans to close after nearly five years due to mounting economic pressure, the owners announced this week.

Rich and Lisa Shagat, the restaurants owners, said in a social media post Monday evening that rising costs have made it impossible to continue operations.

Over the past year, weve witnessed a significant shift  fewer people dining out, while the costs of food, liquor, electricity, and other essentials have risen sharply, the owners said. These increases have far outpaced what small, independent restaurants like ours can reasonably absorb, making this decision both heartbreaking and necessary.

The restaurant, located at 545 W. Broad St., attempted to adapt by adjusting menus and tightening budgets, but the owners said profit margins continued to shrink.

In their announcement, Rich and Lisa Shagat described Osteria 545 as more than a business, calling it an extension of our home where they built relationships with customers who became like family.

A specific closing date was not listed in the announcement.

Customers who placed deposits for future events at the restaurant will be contacted personally this week to arrange next steps, according to the announcement.
Cases are likely to continue going up as the months get colder and gathering move indoors. (Canva for NJ.com)

Its that time of year again when New Jersey hospitals are seeing an increase in admissions associated with COVID-19, influenza, and RSV.

Since the week ending Oct. 25, hospitalizations associated with these respiratory viruses have increased, according to the states latest respiratory illness surveillance report.

The majority of hospitalizations with influenza and COVID have been reported in ages 65 and older, while the majority of admissions with RSV have been reported in children 0-4 years old and adults 65 years and older.

Despite the increase, cases are nowhere near the peak they reached last season when the quad-demic was in full swing and overall respiratory illness activity in New Jersey was very high. However, cases are expected to rise as colder weather drives people to gather indoors more frequently.

READ MORE: Do healthy kids need a COVID shot? Heres what a trained medical professional has to say.

Were definitely starting to see the general surge that we always see in respiratory season, especially as you start having these large community gatherings and things could spread quite easily, said Meghan Faulkner, a certified pediatric acute care nurse practitioner and clinical instructor at Rutgers School of Nursing.

Nationally, the amount of acute respiratory illness causing people to seek health care is at low or very low levels in most states, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

But data shows influenza activity is increasing, as well as emergency department visits for RSV in many southeastern and southern states.

Respiratory Syncytial Virus, or RSV, is a common virus that typically causes mild, cold-like symptoms. However, it can be severe, especially for babies, older adults and the immunocompromised. The virus is the leading cause of childhood illness and hospitalization in infants.

This is the time of year when Faulkner usually braces for an influx of infants with RSV. But this year, she said, things seem different.

Children are being admitted to the hospital for RSV bronchiolitis far less frequently than they were in prior years, Faulkner said.

She credits recent technological advances in the hospital setting, such as noninvasive oxygen and ventilation techniques, that have made it easier to manage children admitted to the hospital with RSV. The availability of infant RSV antibody products has also helped reduce the overall impact and severity of the virus.

The antibody products are different from a traditional vaccine. These products inject monoclonal antibodies that prevent severe RSV disease in infants and some young children. There are two types available: clesrovimab and nirsevimab.

Either product is recommended for use in infants younger than 8 months born during or entering their first RSV season, according to the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Previously, there was a third antibody treatment available  palivizumab  but that was only for children predisposed to severe diseases. According to the CDC, it will no longer be available starting Dec. 31.

For adults, there are three RSV vaccines available. However, the RSV vaccine is only recommended for certain adults:

Pregnant people during weeks 32 to 36 of pregnancy.

People ages 50 to 74 at increased risk of severe RSV disease.

Everyone ages 75 and older.

Influenza, known as the flu, is also spreading. Although the virus circulates year-round, it usually peaks between December and February, according to the CDC.

Most people who get the flu recover within a few days, but some develop severe complications. The risks are highest for young children, pregnant women, people with certain chronic health conditions, and people 65 years and older.

The 202425 flu season was associated with at least 43 million illnesses, 560,000 hospitalizations, and 38,000 deaths, according to the CDC.

Of those who died, 287 were children, representing the highest number of flu-associated deaths in children in a single season since the 2009-10 pandemic.

Seasonal influenza activity remains low nationally but is increasing, primarily among children, according to the CDCs latest influenza surveillance report.

Health experts recommend everyone ages 6 months and older get an annual flu vaccine. For those averse to needles, theres a nasal spray vaccine that can be delivered to your home.

COVID test positivity is also on the rise in New Jersey, according to the latest respiratory illness surveillance report.

For the week ending Nov. 8, COVID was responsible for 35 emergency department visits that resulted in hospitalization, according to the states respiratory illness dashboard.

Although the worst days of COVID are behind us, the virus is still a threat to public health. For example, respiratory outbreaks recently reported in the states long-term care facilities are primarily due to COVID.

Among children 4 years and under, the level of COVID-associated hospitalizations during the 202223 and 202324 seasons were similar to those due to influenza, according to data from the CDC.

The CDC no longer recommends the COVID vaccine for healthy children ages 6 months to 17 years. However, the American Academy of Pediatrics released its own recommendations differing from the CDCs new guidelines. The group strongly recommends a COVID vaccine for children ages 6 to 23 months. It also recommends the vaccine be available for children ages 2-18, even if they dont fall into a risk group, if their parent wants them to have the protection of the vaccine.

Aside from vaccines, Faulkner said there are plenty of other things people can do the prevent their loved ones from contracting a respiratory virus this season.

Families can prevent the spread of respiratory illness by:

Practicing good hygiene.

Disinfecting shared spaces.

Staying home when sick.

Avoiding large gatherings, especially with a newborn.

Its hard. You love your newborn. You want to show them off to the family, but they really are at the highest risk of developing complications related to these viruses, said Faulkner.
Ruperto Vicens Marquez was detained by ICE agents on his way to work on Oct. 19. He was released from custody nearly a month later. Kerri Kennedy

Ruperto Vicens Marquez, the restaurant owner with a work visa who was detained by ICE last month, was released from custody on Tuesday night.

Marquez was released from Newarks Delaney Hall ICE Detention Center at 6 p.m., Kerry Kennedy, a member of the American Friends Service Committee social justice group, told NJ Advance Media. By 7 p.m., he was spending time with his family at his home in Middletown.

Vicens Marquez has been held at the detention center since Oct. 19, the day ICE agents stopped him in a car with two other men while he was on his way to work. The father of three, who lives in the Belford section of Middletown with his wife and three children, spent about a month at Delaney Hall awaiting a hearing.

Vicens Marquez, who was born in Mexico, co-owns Emilios Kitchen with his brother Emilio. The restaurant has locations in Atlantic Highlands and Belmar. He was on his way to work at the Atlantic Highlands location last month when he was apprehended by ICE agents.

In a statement released by ICE after his arrest, a spokesperson said that Vicens Marquez had entered the country illegally and was issued a final order of removal in July of this year. His attorney, Steve Lyons, and Atlantic Highlands Mayor Lori Hohenleitner said that was false.

Lyons has maintained that his client has employment authorization through the Department of Homeland Securitys U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services until 2029. He also stated that Vicens Marquez was not the intended target of the ICE roundup in the area last month.

My client was not the intended target, Lyons said.

Atlantic Highlands residents rallied around the beloved restaurateur, demonstrating at Delaney Hall on Nov. 1 and raising $96,000 through a GoFundMe campaign in an effort to free him.

On Thursday, an immigration judge in Elizabeth ordered that Vicens Marquez be released on a $7,000 bond. The government then had 24 hours to appeal the decision, and although it declined to do so, Vicens Marquez remained detained until the paperwork was complete.

Vicens Marquez is now on a probationary period for 90 days. Once that period is over, he will be back to his regular legal status, Kennedy said.

A welcome home celebration for Vincens Marquez will be held on Saturday at Veterans Park in Atlantic Highlands.
A man who fled to Oklahoma after shooting someone to death in Morristown in 2021 has been sentenced to prison.

Tyrell Lansing, 32, formerly of Morristown, received a 25-year state prison sentence on Friday, the Morris County Prosecutors Office said in a Wednesday statement. He pleaded guilty last month to first-degree aggravated manslaughter and second-degree possession of a weapon for an unlawful purpose.

The shooting happened about 1 a.m. on Aug. 18, 2021, near a public housing complex on Clyde Potts Drive. Police responding to the scene discovered the victim, Raijah Scott, 35, of Cedar Knolls, who was suffering from gunshot wounds, authorities said. Scott was later pronounced dead.

An autopsy determined the manner of death to be homicide, caused by multiple gunshot wounds, officials said.

The day after the shooting, law enforcement learned that Lansing was traveling through the state of Oklahoma with an accomplice, DeQuan McDaniel. The two men were apprehended by Oklahoma authorities and extradited back to New Jersey.

Another co-conspirator, Myles Dacres, provided false information to detectives during the investigation, prosecutors said.

McDaniel, 31, and Dacres, 28, both pleaded guilty to third-degree hindering apprehension or prosecution.

On Friday, McDaniel received a three-year suspended sentenced and was ordered to serve 250 hours of community service. Dacres was sentenced to three years in state prison.

Under the No Early Release Act, Lansing will have to serve at least 85% of his sentence, 21 years and three months, before he is eligible for parole.
Rutgers University in Newark has received a federal grant aimed at supporting administrators in their efforts to address rising autism rates Jeff Rhode | For NJ Advance Media

Editors note: This story was shared as part of a content-sharing agreement between Mosaic.NJ.com and Chalkbeat. You can follow them on Facebook and Twitter (or X).

As the number of children diagnosed with autism rises in New Jersey, Rutgers University is launching a new federally funded program to prepare the next generation of special education administrators.

Backed by a five-year $3.75 million grant from the U.S. Department of Education, the new program called Preparation of Administrators in Special Education, or PASE, will provide full scholarships and stipends for certified special education teachers to earn a doctoral degree and move into leadership roles overseeing special education programs in schools. The program is currently accepting applications, with the first group of students scheduled to begin in January 2026.

Proposed federal cuts to special education funding, staff reductions, and changes in oversight that could worsen existing challenges, particularly in low-income districts like Newark, deepen the need for strong special education leaders, said Dake Zhang, the PASE program coordinator, who also has a son with severe autism.

Whats more, President Donald Trumps administration has attempted to terminate teacher-training grants this year and laid off federal employees overseeing special education enforcement as part of a broader plan to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

Zhang, who is also a professor of special education at Rutgers Graduate School of Education, hopes PASE will help fill leadership roles with people who have a strong special education background and real classroom experience.

Many of these [administrative] positions are filled with people who are not really special education educators, who are not certified in teaching special education, or have not had adequate experiences working with students with disabilities. Thats a concern, Zhang added.

The new program comes as autism rates in the United States hit a record high this year, with 1 in 31 children identified with autism, according to a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report released in April. In New Jersey, the rate is slightly higher, with 1 in 29 children being diagnosed with autism, the report found.

Rutgers researchers also found that as of 2020, 1 in 20 Newark children had been diagnosed with autism, compared with 1 in 167 in 2000. That increase has been felt by Newark Public Schools, where more than 7,000 students receive special education services, and where the district is faced with a shortage of qualified special education staff and administrators. Those shortages are on par with national trends that show nearly all states reported special education teacher shortages and high turnover rates during the 2023-24 school year.

The PASE program is a partnership between Rutgers University, the University of South Carolina, and Northern Arizona University. Rutgers PASE students will participate in shared courses, internships, and virtual seminars with their peers at the South Carolina and Arizona schools. University staff will recruit students from a pool of certified special education teachers with at least three years of full-time experience working with students with disabilities.

Students will earn a doctorate in education in roughly four and a half years through hybrid coursework taught by Rutgers education experts, research projects, and a dissertation focused on improving special education administration. The students will also participate in summer residences at each university, including visits to schools serving students with disabilities in South Carolina and Arizona.

The program has received federal funding for its first year, and pending its progress, will receive funding for the following years.

Zhang said she is hopeful the funding will continue. She recalled instances where special education teachers had trouble understanding her sons needs and didnt really understand what it meant to have a student with a severe disability.

As an administrator, one thing they should understand is the teaching load and the challenges of special education teachers. Nationwide [special education teachers] have a very high attrition rate, and thats because of the workload, a lot of burnout, and inadequate support, Zhang added.

Zhang said she has already received applications from educators in Newark and Camden and hopes the program will strengthen leadership pipelines in the states highest need districts. Rutgers faculty are also looking to partner with Newark Public Schools and local organizations that support students with disabilities to serve as mentors or guest speakers for the program.
New grants totaling $250,000 have been announced by New Jersey officials to expand dual-enrollment programs, including $50,000 for Paterson Arts & Science Charter School.

The grants will be used to help more students, especially from low-income families, earn college credits while in high school, and reduce costs through partnerships with local colleges.

The latest round of Innovation Dual Enrollment Program funding, included in the states fiscal 2026 budget, is designed to boost access to college-level coursework for high school students.

Paterson Arts & Science Charter School will partner with Bergen Community College, Passaic County Community College and William Paterson University to offer students the chance to earn college credits while completing high school requirements.

Some students will finish high school with up to 30 college credits, giving them a head start and saving thousands in tuition, according to iLearn Schools, which manages the charter network. The grant will help iLearn expand participation and increase credits earned. Its goal is to strengthen equity, affordability, and college readiness for Paterson students.

State officials said dual-enrollment programs have become a key strategy for improving college affordability and helping students stay on track for degree completion.

Dual enrollment is a powerful tool for closing equity gaps and preparing students for success beyond high school, Gov. Phil Murphy said in a statement. By expanding access to college courses while students are still in high school, were helping families save money and giving students a head start on their college journey.

The state has awarded $1 million across two previous cycles of the program, supporting partnerships in seven districts, including Passaic City. In the first year, students completed more than 1,100 college courses and earned 3,554 credits  saving families more than $290,000 in tuition and fees, officials said. A second year of grants is still underway and is projected to support more than 980 students.

Secretary of Higher Education Brian Bridges said the results show the states investment is paying off.

These grants are helping more students gain access to college courses that reduce their time to degree but also build confidence and the academic skills critical to postsecondary and later career success, Bridges said.

Dual-enrollment participation has continued to climb statewide. More than 44,000 New Jersey high school students earned college credits in the 2023-24 school year, an increase of nearly 11% from the year before, according to federal data. Participation among economically disadvantaged juniors and seniors also rose 3%, state reports show.

Education Commissioner Kevin Dehmer said the state is working closely with districts to expand the programs. Altogether, this better positions New Jersey students to thrive from high school into college and to succeed in the workforce, he said.

Patersons award is one of four recently announced. Other grants include $50,000 for Keyport Public Schools, $75,000 for Manville Public Schools and $75,000 for Mastery Schools of Camden.

Jennifer Keyes-Maloney, executive director of the New Jersey Association of State Colleges and Universities, noted the role William Paterson University will play in Patersons expansion.

Dual enrollment is a proven strategy, she said. William Paterson Universitys partnerships with the Paterson and Manville school districts provide students an early, impactful step toward their college and career aspirations.
A woman faces two life sentences after being convicted of murdering an 18-year-old who had been visiting family in New Jersey when she was taken from the relatives home, driven back to Maryland and killed.

Iris Alonzo-Salgado, 24, of Frederick, Maryland is the first of four people charged to be found guilty.

The killing took place at the direction of the MS-13 crime gang, the State Attorneys Office in Montgomery County said.

Rosa Sanchez Merino, who was from Gaithersburg, Maryland knew two of her killers and had traveled with the group to New Jersey to visit family in Elizabeth in May 2023, Patch.com reported.

Alonzo-Salgado and others were accused of removing the teen from a home in Elizabeth and driven back to Maryland, officials in Montgomery County, Maryland said.

There, they walked Sanchez Merino into the woods in Olney, Maryland, gagged her and forced her to kneel on the ground before stabbing her to death with a machete.

They then dumped her body in a freshly dug grave, where it was found four months later, authorities said.

One of Alonzo-Salgados associates  Roberto Rivera-Delgado led detectives to a wooded area on Sept. 30, 2023 and showed investigators where the remains were buried.

Alonzo-Salgado and Rivera-Delgado each pleaded guilty to first-degree murder, conspiracy to commit first-degree murder and participating in a criminal organization resulting in death.

Alonzo-Salgado is scheduled to be sentenced Jan. 21. Sentencing for Rivera-Delgado is also pending.

A third co-defendant, Aracely Abarca-Melgar is awaiting trial. The fourth person charged is a juvenile and prosecutors didnt provide information.

Roberto Rivera-Delgado was arrested in Nevada for a parole violation on Sept. 29, 2023 and extradited to Maryland prior to assisting investigators, the State Attorney said.
A former school principal who had about 250 child sexual abuse files on his electronic devices is headed to prison.

John Mangan, 79, of the Lanoka Harbor section of Lacey Township, received a 10-year federal sentence on Tuesday, the U.S. Attorneys Office for District of New Jersey. He pleaded guilty to a single count of possession of child sexual abuse material earlier this year.

Mangan, a previously convicted sex offender, was arrested in October 2024 after the digital files were found during a search warrant at his home, authorities said. Federal prosecutors did not say what prompted the search warrant.

In 1997, Mangan was convicted in the sexual assault of a 15-year-old student while working as a school principal and was later sentenced to four years, according to charging documents. In 2009, he was convicted of possession of child sexual abuse material and received a 10-year federal sentence, court papers said.

Authorities did not say which school district Mangan was employed by.

As part of his sentence, he is also subject to five years of supervised release and is required to pay restitution to the victims.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

Ukraine hopes to resume exchanges of military and civilian prisoners held by Russia by the end of the year and return a significant number of prisoners, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said.

"We hope to resume exchanges by the end of the year, return a significant number of prisoners. Turkey is helping us a lot in this," Zelenskyy said during a press conference with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday.

The Ukrainian head of state said Ukraine is trying to resume prisoner exchanges in order to return home Ukrainian military and civilians, including "Crimean Tatar political and religious prisoners of Russia."

"Of course, we are working to return our kidnapped Ukrainian children. We have platforms and work everywhere, and Turkey has all the opportunities for this work. We thank you for such help in returning our children," Zelenskyy said.

He said that with the help of Turkey, 2,500 prisoners of war have already been returned home.
Authorities are investigating a threat made towards an Ocean County school on Snapchat Tuesday.

While the threat was deemed not credible, there will be an increased police presence at Toms River Intermediate South on Wednesday out of an abundance of caution, the Beachwood Police Department said in a statement on Facebook.

The threat, which was made by a male in a large Snapchat messaging group of students, is believed to have originated from a Florida resident, authorities said.

Multiple law enforcement agencies, including the South Toms River Police Department, the Beachwood Police Department and the Ocean County Prosecutors Office have conducted the investigation.

The safety of the students and staff at all our schools is paramount to our department, police said in the statement.
FILE - People bearing the insignia of the white supremacist group Patriot Front stand in formation in front of the Boston Public Library in Copley Square, July 2, 2022, in Boston. A Black teacher and musician told a federal court Thursday, Oct. 3, 2024 that members of a white nationalist hate group punched, kicked and beat him with metal shields during a march through downtown Boston two years ago. (AP Photo/Michael Dwyer, File) AP

Far-right activist Laura Loomer believes the GOP has a Nazi problem that could hurt Republicans at the polls in the 2026 elections.

If the GOP doesnt address this, then they deserve to lose the midterms, Loomer said Tuesday in a post on X. And yes, it will cost us the midterms.

Im going to say it.



The GOP has a Nazi problem.



And the more we pretend like we dont, the worse its going to get.



We do. Dont tell me we dont.  Laura Loomer (@LauraLoomer) November 18, 2025

The staunch MAGA firebrand and longtime ally to President Donald Trump went on to slam fellow right-wing media personalities like Tucker Carlson and white nationalist Nick Fuentes for amplifying antisemitic conspiracy theories.

I have no problem with people criticizing Israel, Loomer said Tuesday in a follow-up post. I even said end aid to Israel. But lets admit this isnt about Israel.

Hitler Larping and Obsessively talking about Israel doesnt appeal to everyday Americans. Telling Christian Zionists they are THE WORST PEOPLE IN THE WORLD isnt going to win elections. Good luck losing in 2026 and 2028!

Carlson last month interviewed Fuentes, an avowed admirer of Adolf Hitler and Holocaust denier, on his popular podcast.

Fuentes invoked a number of antisemitic tropes during his two-hour conversation with Carlson and later defended his comments following public outcry.

Do us all a favor, Fuentes said following his controversial interview with Carlson. We are done with the Jewish oligarchy. We are done with the slavish surrender to Israel, the wars, the foreign aid, the policing of antisemitism, the Holocaust religion and propaganda.

President Donald Trump, who invited Fuentes to an exclusive dinner at his Mar-a-Lago resort in 2022, defended Carlson for giving the controversial alt-right activist a platform.

Weve had some great interviews with Tucker Carlson, but you cant tell him who to interview, Trump told reporters. I mean, if he wants to interview Nick Fuentes  I dont know much about him, but if he wants to do it, get the word out, let him. You know, people have to decide. Ultimately, people have to decide.

Fuentes interview with Carlson prompted a sharp response from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.), the highest-ranking Jewish elected official in United States history.

Donald Trump dined with Nick Fuentes at Mar-a-Lago, Schumer wrote on X. Now he refuses to condemn Tucker Carlsons appalling interview of Nick Fuentes. Too much of Donald Trumps Republican Party is Nick Fuentess Republican Party. And they must all be roundly condemned by anyone who wishes to combat antisemitism and all forms of hate.

The timing of Loomers concerns align with troubling data indicating a rise in antisemitism across the country.

According to a joint report by the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) and Jewish Federations of North America, 79% of Jewish Americans are concerned that antisemitism is rising in the U.S.

More than one in five Jews said they were either the victim of an assault, experienced threat of physical attack, or experienced verbal harassment due to their religious identity in the past year, according to the report.

With anxiety in the Jewish community rising, Loomer believes figures like Carlson and Fuentes could drive even more Jewish voters away from the Republican party as the GOP tries to maintain majority control of Congress in 2026.

There is zero moral clarity in the GOP right now. I will not unite with this, Loomer said. And neither will majority of the GOP base. We are likely going to lose the midterms over this nihilistic Nazi love fest. Ill be here to say I told you so.
California Gov. Gavin Newsom and President Donald Trump have become fierce political rivals. AP Photo/(Ethan Swope and Lynne Sladky)

California Gov. Gavin Newsom rubbed salt in the wound Tuesday after federal judges in Texas delivered a blow to President Donald Trumps redistricting efforts.

In a 2-1 ruling, a panel of judges in El Paso found that Texas newly redrawn congressional map advantaging Republicans was an illegal race-based gerrymander that would harm Black and Hispanic residents.

Donald Trump and [Texas Gov.] Greg Abbott played with fire, got burned  and democracy won, Newsom said in a post on X. This ruling is a win for Texas and for every American who fights for free and fair elections."

Donald Trump and Greg Abbott played with fire, got burned  and democracy won.



This ruling is a win for Texas and for every American who fights for free and fair elections. https://t.co/99YfmWz4Hp  Governor Gavin Newsom (@CAgovernor) November 18, 2025

The three-judge panels ruling is a significant setback for Trumps GOP as it seeks to keep control of both congressional chambers.

This summer, at the behest of Trump, Texas legislators created a new map that made five districts in the state more favorable to conservatives in the 2026 midterm elections.

The redistricting effort would have likely resulted in Republicans controlling 30 of the states 38 congressional districts after the midterms. Those additional House seats would have provided a substantial boost to the GOP, which will carry a slim five-seat majority into the 2026 elections.

In his opinion, U.S. Judge Jeffrey Brown wrote that politics played a role in drawing the 2025 Map.

But it was much more than just politics, wrote Brown, a Trump appointee. Substantial evidence shows that Texas racially gerrymandered the 2025 Map.

In another blow to Trump and the GOP, the court ruling in Texas will not have an effect on Californias newly approved congressional map.

Paul Mitchell, who crafted Californias new map, said trigger language was removed from the ballot proposition before it passed with overwhelming support on Nov. 4. The redrawn map created five new districts favorable to Democrats in response to Texas earlier redistricting efforts.

The trigger language was removed in the legislative process as it was clear that TX was redistricting, Mitchell said Tuesday in a post on X. So, even if their map is invalidated/postponed, the Prop 50 maps stay in place.

Following Tuesdays ruling, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton said he will file an appeal with the U.S. Supreme Court.

The radical left is once again trying to undermine the will of the people, Paxton said in a statement. The Big Beautiful Map was entirely legal.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
In this image taken from video, pop star Nicki Minaj joined faith leaders Tuesday Nov. 18, 2025, at the U.S. Mission in New York. (AP Photo/Joseph B. Frederick) AP

Rap star Nicki Minaj thanked President Donald Trump during a United Nations event as she capitalized on his contested claim that Christians are facing persecution in Nigeria.

Trump announced earlier this month that the United States will immediately stop aid and assistance to Nigeria and threatened military action if the killing of Christians continues in the country. Nigeria, a strategic U.S. partner, has repeatedly denied the presidents claims. While analysts say Christians have been targeted, they estimate the majority of victims of armed groups are Muslims in the north.

Were going to do things to Nigeria that Nigerias not going to be happy about, Trump said in a post on his Truth Social platform. And may very well go into that now-disgraced country, guns a-blazing, to completely wipe out the Islamic terrorists who are committing these horrible, horrible atrocities.

During an event organized by the United States, Minaj on Tuesday said she hoped to shine a spotlight on the deadly threats faced by thousands of Christians in Nigeria.

I stand here as a proud New Yorker with a deep sense of gratitude that we live in a country where we can freely and safely worship God regardless of ones creed, background or politics, Minaj said at a panel at the U.S. mission to the United Nations. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion.

Minaj, who was invited and introduced by UN ambassador Mike Waltz, gave props to Trump for his leadership and prioritizing this issue.

This isnt about taking sides, Minaj said. This is about standing up in the face of injustice. Its about what Ive always stood for my entire career, and I will continue to stand for that.

Minaj first drew the attention of the Trump administration earlier this month after she responded to the presidents post on social media.

Reading this made me feel a deep sense of gratitude, Minaj wrote on X. We live in a country where we can freely worship God. No group should ever be persecuted for practicing their religion. We dont have to share the same beliefs in order for us to respect each other.

She added: Thank you to The President & his team for taking this seriously. 

In response to Trumps threat, Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu directly pushed back, saying that the characterization of his country as religious intolerant does not reflect our national reality.

Religious freedom and tolerance have been a core tenet of our collective identity and shall always remain so, Tinubu said in a statement on social media. Nigeria opposes religious persecution and does not encourage it.

In a post on X on Sunday, Pope Leo XIV said Christians are suffering discrimination and persecution in Nigeria and other countries including Bangladesh, Mozambique and Sudan.

Let us pray that all violence may cease and that believers may work together for the common good, he wrote.
Police on Tuesday searched for an armed suspect who was seen near a shopping center off Route 206 in Hillsborough in Somerset County. He was later arrested. Victoria Gladstone | NJ Advance Media

A 19-year-old man was arrested Tuesday after he allegedly shot at another man in Hillsborough, an incident that caused a local school district to go into lockdown.

Police were called to Route 206 near the Hillsborough Centre, a local shopping center, around 1 p.m. for a report of shots fired and were given descriptions of the alleged shooter and victim by eyewitnesses, according to a statement from the Somerset County Prosecutors Office.

Both had fled the area before police arrived and as a precaution, detectives placed area schools in a lockdown and advised local residents and businesses to use caution, the office said.

The incident did not take place at any of the school buildings, according to a social media post from the school district.

Officers found the victim of the shooting, a 19-year-old Hillsborough man who was not injured, and also identified the shooter as Dawan Jeter, a fellow township resident, investigators said.

A search warrant was executed at Jeters home, but he was not there and shortly thereafter, authorities were alerted that he was on his way to police headquarters to surrender, officials said.

Jeter was taken into custody at the department at 5:56 p.m. and charged with first-degree attempted murder, third-degree endangering another person and two weapons-related offenses, the office said. He was taken to the Somerset County Jail, where he was held ahead of his detention hearing.

Anyone with more information about the incident was asked to contact the Somerset County Prosecutors Office at 908-231-7100 or the Hillsborough Township Police Department at 908-369-4313 or via the STOPit app.
A 19-year-old gunman who shot at someone in the parking lot of a Chipotle in Hillsborough on Tuesday afternoon ran home before turning himself in to police hours later, officials allege.

Details about the incident, which caused township schools to be locked down, are included in an affidavit of probable cause outlining the attempted murder, endangering another person and weapons offenses against Dawan Jeter.

The incident unfolded at 1 p.m. when Jeter arrived at the Chipotle parking lot on a scooter, according to the criminal complaints, which cites surveillance footage from a nearby Bottle King and a drivers dash cam.

He disappeared from the store cameras view before being seen running toward Hillsborough Village Center Apartments wearing a white backpack.

Police found five spent shell casings and located a witness who said Jeter pulled a gun on the victim, according to court documents.

Investigators later found the uninjured victim  a 19-year-old Hillsborough man  who identified Jeter as the shooter.

Police then determined Jeter lived at the apartment complex across Route 206. They obtained and executed a search warrant for his apartment, but Jeter was not home

A short time later he was driven to police headquarters and surrendered at 5:45 p.m. Officers saw the backpack Jeter had at the scene of the shooting in the vehicle in which he arrived, the complaint said.

A motive for the shooting was not mentioned in the affidavit.

Attorney information for Jeter wasnt immediately available.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a conversation with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, the parties discussed recent acts of sabotage on the Polish railway.

"Ukraine is ready to cooperate with Poland at various levels and share all information. We agreed to create a Ukrainian-Polish group that will work to prevent similar situations from Russia in the future," Zelenskyy said in his Telegram channel on Wednesday.

During the conversation, Tusk expressed condolences for the deaths in Ternopil and dozens of injuries in other regions of Ukraine as a result of Russian attacks.

He also shared information from law enforcement and intelligence agencies about recent acts of sabotage on Polish railways.

"The Telegram social platform was used to organize subversive activities and launch a disinformation campaign against Ukraine," Zelenskyy said after the conversation.

In turn, the head of the Ukrainian state said such subversive actions are directed against Ukraine, including the railway, every day.

"At Ukrzaliznytsia, we have implemented appropriate measures to counter such sabotage. Our information coincides: all the facts point to a Russian trace behind all this. No one, except the Russians, is interested in this," the president said.

In turn, Tusk, after a conversation with the head of the Ukrainian state, said: "Today, Zelenskyy and I agreed on cooperation between Polish and Ukrainian intelligence services and state railways."

"Among other things, the goals will be to identify individuals suspected of collaborating with Russia and prevent acts of sabotage," he said on X.

As reported, on November 17, a section of the track on the Deblin-Warsaw line was damaged in Poland. Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk did not rule out sabotage. According to him, no one was injured, and the relevant services are conducting an investigation.

Ukraine has offered assistance in conducting the investigation.

Later, Tusk reported that the suspects in the sabotage on the railway line in Poland leading to Ukraine are two Ukrainian citizens who have long collaborated with Russian intelligence, lived in Belarus and entered Poland through the Terespol border crossing this fall, one of whom was convicted in Ukraine at the time. The suspects have left Poland.
JSC Ukrzaliznytsia has accumulated significant experience in countering sabotage on railway infrastructure and declares its readiness to share it with Polish and other European colleagues, who have also begun to detect similar cases.

"Ukrzaliznytsia is ready to actively cooperate with Polish and other European railways to counteract hostile sabotage and is offering to exchange experiences," the company said in a statement on Telegram on Wednesday.

Ukrainian railway workers have proposed establishing an open exchange of experiences with their Polish counterparts and other European railway workers to further prepare and adjust the control procedure to counteract recent sabotage on Polish railways.

Ukrzaliznytsia proposed exchanging experiences and cooperating with the Community of European Railway and Infrastructure Companies (CER) in the field of security.

"Only the joint efforts of the civilized world can effectively protect people and thwart Russia's attempts to disrupt railway operations," Ukrzaliznytsia emphasized.

On Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy spoke with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and the two agreed to the terms of cooperation between their respective intelligence services and state railways.

"Among other things, the goal will be to identify individuals suspected of collaborating with Russia and prevent acts of sabotage," Tusk noted.

On November 17, a section of the track on the LublinWarsaw line was damaged in Poland. Tusk did not rule out sabotage. According to Tusk, no one was injured, and the relevant services are conducting an investigation.
Devons road gritters were sent out for the first time this winter on Sunday (16 November) night as temperatures fell close to freezing across high ground on Dartmoor and Exmoor.

Devon County Council said its teams began work from 8pm, treating routes where road surface temperatures dropped to zero or below.

It follows days of heavy rain from Storm Claudia, which has left standing water in some areas and raised the risk of overnight ice.

READ NEXT: Serious collision in Tavistock prompts police appeal for witnesses

A Yellow Cold-Health Alert, issued by the UK Health Security Agency and the Met Office, is in force for the South West until Saturday, with colder weather expected to continue throughout the week.

The council said it has been preparing for winter for several months, and depots across the county have been stocked with almost 24,000 tonnes of salt, with the gritting fleet being serviced.

Five of the 37 main gritters have been replaced with newer models, which include touchscreen controls so drivers can adjust salt spreading and plough settings from inside the cab.

Residents on Dartmoor and elsewhere are being asked to help by parking and driving considerately so gritters can get through narrow roads.

Councillor Dan Thomas, Cabinet Member for Highways, said:

Gritting the roads is a really important part of our highways operations. If the gritters are out, theyre out for a reason If you happen to be out when they are, please give way to them and please park considerately to allow the gritters to get around your towns and villages.

Last winter, around 8,000 tonnes of salt were spread on Devons roads, 1,800 tonnes more than the previous year, but still below the usual average of 13,000 tonnes.

ABOVE : Councillor Dan Thomas with Devon Highways staff (Credit: DCC)

Simon Kane, Contract Manager for Devon Highways, said:

The gritter drivers deserve a huge amount of credit More often than not, they're driving in the worst conditions in the depths of night to get the roads ready for the travelling public.

He also asked people not to block narrow rural roads: If our drivers can't get past it holds up the service and delays treatment of the network.

Devons Network Operations Control Centre in Exeter monitors the countys 8,000-mile road network around the clock, using CCTV, weather data and information from 38 ice-detection stations. Another 20 weather sensors help decide when roads need treatment.

About 14 miles of Exeters busiest cycle routes will also be gritted again this winter.

The countys 325 volunteer snow wardens remain on standby to help communities that are not on the main gritting routes, including those in remote parts of Dartmoor.

More than 3,500 grit bins are available for public use, and empty bins can be reported online.

Information on winter travel, the snow warden scheme and live updates can be found on Devon County Councils website and on its Devon Alert social media accounts.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/news/all

During a meeting in Ankara, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan discussed further cooperation and joint projects, as well as the diplomatic situation.

"Today, Mr. President and I discussed further cooperation, joint production projects, and coordination for more effective protection of life. Our teams will work on what was agreed upon today. We are counting on results," Zelenskyy said during a press conference with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara on Wednesday.

The leaders also discussed the diplomatic situation. According to the Ukrainian head of state, "many processes" have now intensified. He noted the importance of security guarantees and added that Ukraine will continue to coordinate and work with all partners.

"We are counting on the strength of Turkish diplomacy and its clarity in Moscow," Zelenskyy noted.

He also noted the importance of involving Turkey in the Coalition of the Willing, particularly in the naval component.

"Everyone understands the importance of security in the Black Sea, and such security can only be guaranteed together with Turkey," the president said.
A festive light has been shone on the Torbay businesses who have brought Christmas to the Bay this year.

A festive light has been shone on the Torbay businesses who have brought Christmas to the Bay this year.

The Bay of Lights is back  and its brighter, bolder, and more magical than ever before! From Friday November 28 to Friday January 2, the English Riviera will be transformed into a glittering wonderland of light, sound, and festive cheer.

Torbay Council says: This spectacular event would not be possible without the incredible generosity of our sponsors, whose support has helped bring the Bay of Lights to life across Torquay, Paignton, and Brixham.

Magic of the Bay of Lights

Torbay Council is proud to fund the event in partnership with SWISCo, and the English Riviera BID Company, and with the support of a host of amazing local businesses and organisations.

The council is shining a light on the incredible businesses and organisations who have helped make the Bay of Lights possible this year.

From funding spectacular installations to supporting our brand-new ice rink, their generosity is lighting up the English Riviera this Christmas.

A special thanks go to our ice rink headline sponsors, Willmott Dixon, who have gone above and beyond to help fund this years brand-new ice rink at Abbey Park, Torquay.

Bay of Lights ice rink this year

Their commitment has helped us bring a truly magical experience back to the Bay  offering families and visitors the chance to skate under a sparkling canopy for the first time in years.

The council also thanked installation sponsors Pier Point, Otto, Twenty1, Offshore Bar and Restaurant, Hoopers, PKF Francis Clark, Hays Travel, ERBID, Torbay Business Forum, The Torquay Comedy Club, Cantina TQ, and Osborne Apartments.

The Illumination Trail, which welcomed over one million visitors last year, simply wouldnt be possible without the support of our local business community. Their continued support not only helps to bring festive magic to the Bay but also highlights the impact of events like this on the local economy and community,  says the council.

This years Trail, which has been created and produced by Future Technical Solutions, runs between Torre Abbey and Torquay Harbour, with dazzling new installations and a free, accessible sensory experience running daily from 4:30pm (sound until 9:30pm, lights until 11pm).

The trail also extends to Paignton and Brixham, where 12-metre-high, pixel-mappable Christmas trees will deliver stunning digital light and sound shows.

Adding to the festive spirit, Torre Abbeys Christmas Market will run from Friday November 28 to Sunday December 21, featuring local stalls and delicious festive treats.

Were thrilled to share that local community groups have also joined the celebration, by decorating our festive trees, adding a personal and heartwarming touch to the market, says the council.

They added: A particular thank you to Marldon Christmas Tree Farm as well who have kindly donated a 15ft Christmas tree to the market this year.

The amazing "Alive with Light" feature, probably the most loved element of the Bay of lights package last year, also returns to the front of Torre Abbey.

Cllrr Jackie Thomas, Torbay Council's Cabinet Member for Tourism, Culture and Events, and Corporate Services, said: Each year the Bay of Lights celebrations seem to get bigger and more magical, and thats thanks to the incredible support from our partners, sponsors and supporters, including our fantastic local business community.

Your generous support plays a vital part in lighting up the Bay and helping residents and visitors to create unforgettable festive memories  thank you.

Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive Officer, English Riviera BID Company, said:

"We are delighted to once again be working in partnership with Torbay Council for the Bay of Lights celebrations. Each year the events bring so much joy and festive magic to the English Riviera, its residents and visitors. A heartfelt thank you to everyone involved who makes that possible."

Chris Wheeler, Regional Head of Land and Development at Willmott Dixon, said:

"Willmott Dixon is proud to be sponsoring the Bay of Lights this year. This event is more than festive fun, its a beacon for the community and a celebration of what makes Torbay really special. As regeneration partners alongside the Council, were committed to creating spaces and experiences that bring people together, and supporting the Bay of Lights is a perfect example of that."

The council says theres still time to be part of the magic. They said: Whether youre a local business looking to support the initiative, or a community group wanting to get involved, wed love to hear from you. Your support helps us make the Bay of Lights a truly inclusive and unforgettable experience for everyone. If you are interested and would like to find out more, please contact Events@torbay.gov.uk.
*UPDATE - 17:15 - News Desk and Media Manager Stefan Gordon told The Moorlander:

"We received a report that a gritter had overturned on Moretonhampstead Road, Lustleigh, at around 3.20pm.

The driver is currently believed to have sustained minor injuries.

A road closure is currently in place due to the incident and motorists are advised to avoid the area."

The A382 is currently blocked in both directions this afternoon (Sunday 9 November) after a gritter overturned between Pepperdon Hall Lane at Moretonhampstead and Knowle Road near Lustleigh.

The incident was first reported shortly after 4pm, with the latest update at 4.33pm stating that traffic is slow-moving in the area.

Earlier reports indicated that while the road was closed, traffic had been coping well.

READ NEXT: Derriford team earns prestigious UK award for truly inspiring cancer support

Police are at the scene and have described it as an ongoing incident.

Motorists are being urged to find alternative routes or expect delays.

There are currently no official details on injuries, other vehicles involved, or the cause of the overturning.

Devon & Cornwall Police have been contacted for further information, and more updates will follow as soon as they are available.
Rights to a third floating commercial wind farm site in the Celtic Sea west of Lundy Island have been awarded to a joint venture between Spanish/Portuguese and French companies.

The Crown Estate announced today (Wednesday, November 19) it had appointed leading global developer Ocean Winds to create the 1.5 gigawatt platform some 30-plus miles off the coast.

Two adjacent sites have already been awarded to Equinor and Gwynt Glas, with the Crown Estate saying the three sites will help ensure the full potential capacity of 4.5GW of energy.

It says this would be enough to power four million homes and could lead to the creation of more than 5,000 jobs and deliver a 1.4billion boost to the UK economy.

READ NEXT: Crown Estate moves forward with floating wind farm off North Devon coast

Todays news follows the Offshore Wind Leasing Round 5 auction in June, which awarded rights for two of three sites for new floating wind farms to Equinor and Gwynt Glas, who both entered into agreements for lease for their respective floating wind farm projects in October.

Latest appointee Ocean Winds is a 50-50 venture between EDP Renewables - which has its headquarters in Madrid but whose parent company is Portuguese utility company EDPR  and France-based ENGIE.

Ocean Winds delivered the worlds first semi-submersible floating wind farm, WindFloat Atlantic, in Portugal in 2020 and has UK locations including Moray East and Moray West.

The governments energy secretary Ed Miliband said: Securing a third floating offshore wind site in the Celtic Sea not only strengthens the UKs position as a global leader in this emerging technology, but also further unlocks the regions vast potential to deliver our clean power mission and bring down energy bills for good.

Floating offshore wind in the Celtic Sea will drive growth across Wales and the South West, create thousands of skilled jobs in places like Port Talbot and Bristol, bolster our energy security, and power industrial renewal.

READ NEXT: Campaigners raise the cash to mount legal bid against controversial cable plans

Dan Labbad, chief executive of The Crown Estate, said: Im incredibly proud that we have delivered on the commitment we made to secure a developer for the third site in the Celtic Sea and were delighted that Ocean Winds will join other world-leading companies to invest in the UK and help establish this pioneering new technology for the long-term benefit of the country.

Craig Windram, CEO of Ocean Winds said the company was proud to be selected for the development rights.

He added: With over a decade of experience pioneering floating wind technology and a proven ability to deliver fixed bottom projects at pace, we are confident in our capabilities to deliver this commercial scale floating project.

The project will bring substantial benefits to the UK and play a vital role in the energy transition.

Ocean Winds and the Crown Estate will now work towards finalising an Agreement for Lease, which is expected to be completed by spring.
Three quarters of a century since it was founded, Barnstaple and District Round Table has held its 75th anniversary celebrations with an Oktoberfest themed evening and was delighted to welcome two particular attendees.

One was current chairman Mikey Driller Jewell, who continues to recover well after being hit by a major stroke aged just 42 and hospitalised for eight weeks with a brain bleed.

READ NEXT: Community rallies to help devoted North Devon dad after devastating stroke

The other was guest speaker for the night at the Park Hotel, a former Barumite who was born in the town and whose father was a founding member of Barnstaple Round Table.

Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter is a leading British statistician and a Fellow of Churchill College, Cambridge, who grew up in Barnstaple and attended Barnstaple Grammar School, now the Park Community School.

Above: Barnstaple Round Table chairman Mikey Jewell with guest speaker and former Barumite Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter at the 75th celebrations. Credit: BRT

His father, Eddie Spiegelhalter, was one of the founding members of Barnstaple Table in 1950, when a group of like-minded men set up the Barnstaple club to offer an exchange of ideas, learn from each others experiences and contribute collectively to civic and community life.

Sir David has worked on a number of high-profile national and international projects, from the Harold Shipman case through the Bristol hospital babies death scandal and more recently he was a critic of the last government and its handling of the Covid crisis.

Mikey Jewell said: Im immensely proud of what the group has achieved over the past 75 years and we look forward to the next 75 with the continued focus in both bringing like-minded men together in helping and supporting the community and having fun along the way, as the need today is even greater than it was 75 years ago.

Above: Professor Sir David Spiegelhalter was born in Barnstaple, went to the former grammar school and his father Eddie helped found Barnstaple Round Table.

Since that time the Barnstaple Table has continued its ethos of community involvement and fundraising, running the annual Round Table Fireworks event at Barnstaple Rugby Club on the first Sunday every November.

Over the years the event has raised many thousands of pounds for so many local charities and organisations, including North Devon Hospice, Devon Air Ambulance, ChemoHero, Care for Kids, Families in Grief and Childrens Hospice South West.

Another hugely popular fundraiser is the annual Santa Sleigh that covers 16 nights touring the town over the Christmas season - in the last five years alone from both events Barnstaple Table has raised just under 100,000 for good causes.

Mikey continued: At the charter night celebration, both past and present Tablers mentioned the key thing they got from Table was friendship, support and giving back to the community to support others.

This year I had a serious stroke in August and was hospitalised for over eight weeks and the support that both I and my family received from not just Barnstaple Tablers but other Tablers and clubs throughout the UK and the world was immense, with the setting up of a GoFundMe page that raised more than 20,000 and helped me through my treatment and supported my family at this crucial time.

I am very thankful for Table in the help and support I got during my illness as well my ongoing recovery.

Barnstaple and District Round Table is always on the lookout for new members aged between 18 and 45-years-old who are willing to contribute to the club with thoughts and ideas as well as to play their part in community activities and events.

Anyone who would like to find out more is welcome to visit the Barnstaple Round Table Facebook page.
US peace plan provides for Ukraine to give up part of its territory, arms  media

The United States has made it clear to President Volodymyr Zelenskyy that Ukraine must accept a U.S.-developed plan to end the war with Russia, which provides for Kyiv to give up part of its territory and weapons, Reuters said, citing sources.

"The sources, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter, said the proposals included cutting the size of Ukraine's armed forces, among other things. Washington wants Kyiv to accept the main points, they said," the publication said.

It is noted that such a plan would be a serious blow to Kyiv, which is facing further expansion of Russian territory in eastern Ukraine.

A senior Ukrainian official earlier told Reuters that Kyiv had received "signals" about a set of U.S. proposals to end the war that Washington has discussed with Russia. Ukraine has had no role in preparing the proposals, the source said.

Zelenskyy, who held talks in Turkey with President Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday, is due to meet with U.S. military officials in Kyiv on Thursday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has long demanded that Kyiv abandon plans to join the U.S.-led NATO military alliance and withdraw its troops from four regions Moscow considers part of Russia. Moscow has given no indication that it has abandoned any of those demands, and Ukraine says it will not accept them.

Similar demands for Ukraine to end the war were also reported on the X network by The Financial Times' Christopher Miller.
China has intensified its backlash following Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi Sanaes remarks in parliament regarding a potential Taiwan contingency.

An economist at Nomura Research Institute put the economic loss caused by the Chinese governments call on its people to refrain from traveling to Japan at an estimated 1.8 trillion yen.

The rift between Japan and China has deepened following Takaichis comments concerning a Taiwan contingency.

Takaichi, seen as a China hawk, told a parliamentary committee session on November 7 that if China uses military force against Taiwan, that would constitute a crisis situation threatening the survival of Japan.

This is a hotel in Beijing on November 18.

S/ Yanagisawa Takashi, NNN Beijing bureau chief / The Foreign Ministrys director general Kanai has just left the hotel.

Senior officials of the Japanese and Chinese foreign ministries met for several hours to try to calm the situation.

After the talks, Kanai Masaaki, head of the Japanese Foreign Ministrys Asian and Oceanian Affairs Bureau, and Liu Jinsong, head of the Chinese Foreign Ministrys Department of Asian Affairs, emerged.

Liu had both of his hands in his pockets.

Kanai did not respond to questions from reporters.

S/ Liu Jinsong, Chinese Foreign Ministry / Of course we are not satisfied (with the content of the meeting).

S/ Reporter / What was the atmosphere like?

S/ Liu Jinsong, Chinese Foreign Ministry / Solemn.

The Japanese government intends to continue dialogue with China to try to diffuse tensions.

The city of Handa in Aichi Prefecture, central Japan, has a sister-city relationship with the Chinese city of Xuzhou.

It had been scheduled to host a delegation from Xuzhou on November 18 for visits to a museum and other places.

S/ NNN Reporter / They were scheduled to view an exhibition of works by children from Handa and Xuzhou, but the visit has been postponed.

Handa officials said they received an email from their contact in Xuzhou three days earlier, notifying them about the postponement.

The email said an urgent and important official duty with overlapping schedule came up, and they had no choice but to postpone the visit.

It is unclear whether the development has any causal link to Takaichis remarks.
Photo: https://www.president.gov.ua/

Important events that will open the prospects for ending the war in Ukraine will occur in February 2026, Head of the Main Intelligence Agency of the Ministry of Defense of Ukraine Kyrylo Budanov has said.

"We will approach this in the winter. Let me put it this way: our window will open again in the middle of February. All events will be  the beginning of February, mid-February," Budanov said in an interview with Channel 24, answering the question of when we should expect the coincidence of events that will lead to a turning point in the war.

He called the actions of U.S. President Donald Trump "as systematic and consistent as possible." "Without his intervention, I don't think there is a chance to stop the fighting. As of now," the agency head said.

When asked how he sees the international security architecture in the future, so that the Russian-Ukrainian war does not happen again, he replied: "It will definitely be modified. Many countries have concluded that, first of all, they need to rely on their own forces and build strong bilateral relations with those in whom they are confident, that is, with those who will definitely come to their aid." "What happened, especially at the beginning of 22, during the beginning of our full-scale invasion of us, discussions within NATO, they showed that certain countries are categorically not ready to make radical decisions. And we don't remember this, but they remembered it very well inside and drew conclusions from it. Therefore, I think that in parallel with the existence of those large blocs that exist, new regional formations of a military-political orientation will appear," Budanov said.
Google Maps is full of obscure but intriguing tourist attractions, and Volvo Island definitely ranks among the most intriguing ones. Added to the platform in 2015, it has received hundreds of positive reviews and currently has a 4.9 rating on Google. Thats pretty high for a simple 2001 Volvo S80 sedan, but then again, its not every day you see one of those stranded in the middle of an artificial lake.

The story of Volvo Island can be traced back to Scott Mann, a resident of the nearby Ottawa City and owner of two car repair shops. 13 years ago, after an old strip mine got filled with about 40 feet of standing water, Mann decided to place an old Volvo on a peninsula extending into this man-made lake and then organize a contest around it.

After placing the S80 on a small islet about the size of the car itself, Scott Mann used an excavator to remove the peninsula it had been towed to the islet on. This was essential to his plan because he planned to ask the world how the car had wound up in the middle of the deep lake. However, he ended up scrapping the plans for his contest because he feared that people would attempt to go into the water to reach the vehicle.

But even though the contest was cancelled, Mann decided to keep the car on the lake, as a kind of fun tourist attraction that would bring some publicity to his repair shop business. Its unclear how good a marketing idea it proved to be for Scott Mann, but Volvo Island definitely became a popular landmark in the Ottawa area.

Located near the intersection of Illinois Route 71 and US Highway 6, roughly 80 miles southwest of Chicago, Volvo Island is a landmark like no other. Despite having spent over a decade in the open, at the mercy of the elements, the 2001 Volvo S80 sedan still looks in excellent condition.
A BOOK which presents its own perspective on Offaly's place in Irish history will be launched on Sunday, November 23 (3pm) in the Central Hotel in Tullamore.

Compiled by Tullamore man Raymond Daly, Ten Faithful Years (1913  1923) in Song and Story runs to more than 500 pages with numerous photographs and scores of songs, each complete with lyrics and background information.

At first glance the sheer size of the publication appears an insurmountable challenge but even the briefest browse unearths nuggets on almost every page.

Other than the most studious scholars of the era, who knew for instance that drunken Blacks and Tans went berserk in Clarke's barbers on William Street after burning the Irish National Foresters hall in November 1920?

Or that the IRA failed to take Clara barracks during the War of Independence probably because there were too many volunteers involved rather than too few?

Other gems include the fact that Offaly men piloted planes for the Royal Flying Corps (later the RAF) in World War I and two sons of Henry Egan of P& H Egan fought in, and survived the battle of Messines.

Patrick Feery, Tullamore was not so lucky. He was killed in the Great War while his brother Edward, photographed in the book, fought at Ypres.

Back at home the Tullamore Incident, often described as 'the first shots of 1916', is recalled, while there is the note that William Tyrell from Edenderry wrote home from the battlefield of France after the Dublin rising and called the Easter rebels scoundrels.

All parts of Offaly are mentioned. There is a picture of an Irish Volunteer jacket worn by Shannon Harbour man Bernard Kenny; there is the tale of Banagher man, the magistrate Alan Bell, shot dead in Dublin by Michael Collins' 'Squad'; the book explains why a Tullamore RIC inspector sought protection from the IRA 'police'; and it revisits a cattle drive at Geashill against Lord Digby.

The book list the names of the 11 Offaly men who definitely took part in the Easter Rising, chronicles the departure of the British from Birr barracks at the end of the War of Independence, while also publishing an image of Martin Hensey, a soldier who died in Salonika in 1915.

Those are just random findings across the massive tome whose value is aptly summed up in the foreword by Larry Fleming.

He says Raymond Daly's inspiration was a genuine love and passion for Irish history, driven by an intense admiration for the men and women who took on the might of an empire.

Raymond does not purport to be an expert in either politics or its historical legacies, but rather an amateur historian dedicated to recording the events surrounding the struggle for freedom in plain non-academic layman's language, free from the restrictions of academia, writes Mr Fleming.

Despite that, this publication is an ideal historical reference and should prove invaluable to students undertaking state exams in coming years as it presents a clear historical timeline.

He says the songs and ballads add greatly to the book's appeal and impact. Among the songs included are Green Fields of France, The Auld Triangle, The Foggy Dew, The Tri Coloured Ribbon, Who Fears to Speak of Easter Week, The Man from Mullingar and many, many more.

Raymond Daly dedicates the book to his late father Tommy and reveals that his elderly Da would sing songs included in the book while spending time with his son as dementia advanced.

He said he was inspired to compile the book on March 20, 2016 when he attended an oration by local historian Michael Byrne at the 100th anniversary of the shots fired in Tullamore on April 24, 1916 by Peadar Bracken and Seamus O'Brennan at William Street in Tullamore.

Raymond's granduncle John (Jack) Martin was also present there, at what became known as the Tullamore Incident and which resulted in the injury by gunshot to RIC Sergeant Philip Ahern. The Easter Rising, which was mainly confined to Dublin, took place a month later.

Sergeant Ahern was replaced by Sergeant Henry Cronin who was shot dead in Tullamore by local IRA men on October 31, 1920 and the incidents at Clarke's barbers and the Foresters hall were reprisals.

Raymond Daly's great grandfather Michael Connolly took part in both the Boer War and Great War, another granduncle John (Jack) Daly was involved in the attack on Clara Barracks while relations on his great grandmother's side, brothers Patrick and Dan Hamilton, enlisted in Crinkle during World War I, with the latter suffering a serious head injury.

Because of those associations across the divides of Irish politics, Raymond writes in the book: With this in mind, I take an impartial view with my research and utilise the help and guidance of local and national historians, authors and relatives of the revolutionary men and women, I was determined not to judge but be impartial with my research and honour all those mentioned throughout the book.
FOR the love of Bats by Ballycumber Tidy Towns was deemed as runner up in the 2025 Water Heritage Awards, which were presented recently.

The winners of the National Heritage Week Awards 2025 were announced at a ceremony at the Royal Hospital Kilmainham, Dublin. The awards are run by The Heritage Council, which promotes awareness of the importance of Irelands heritage to communities across the island.

For the love of Bats by Ballycumber Tidy Towns and Freshwater Ballycumber Brosna, who were a runner up for the Water Heritage Award, held a family-friendly celebration that combined biodiversity education with community art. It featured bat foraging activities, a fancy dress competition, face painting, a treasure trail, and the unveiling of a community-created mosaic mural. Leading up to the event, local schools and community groups participated in mosaic workshops to design and craft individual tiles, which collectively formed the mural displayed on the day.

Funded by LAWPRO, the Water Heritage Award recognises projects and events that explore, celebrate, and protect Irelands waterways, highlighting the importance of rivers, lakes, canals, and coasts in our heritage. The events shortlisted for the Water Heritage Award took place during National Heritage Week from August 16th-24th 2025, culminating in Water Heritage Day on August 24th 2025.

The 2025 National Heritage Week Awards featured a wide range of national categories, reflecting the diversity of heritage across Ireland  from themes like Exploring Our Foundations, Wild Child, and Water Heritage, to Inclusive Heritage, Irish Language, Sustainability and Climate, and Intangible Cultural Heritage.

The awards celebrate the passion and commitment shown by individuals and communities across the country in protecting, sharing, and showcasing Irelands rich heritage. This years National Heritage Week was the biggest yet, with over 2,500 events registered and 400,000 people taking part in family-friendly activities that celebrate Irelands built, cultural, and natural heritage.

READ NEXT: Planning application of Midlands Regional Hospice to be determined by Offaly councillors

The overall winners were:

A.K. ILEN, Ireland's last wooden ocean-going ship, from the Sailing Into Wellness group from Co. Cork won The Exploring Our Foundations Award.

Wild Child Day - All about Otters from the Maigue Rivers Trust from Co Limerick won the Wild Child Award.

Mealagh Valley Heritage Day from the Mealagh Valley Community Centre from Co. Cork won the Inclusive Event Award.

Celebrating Irish Road Bowling at Ballyvolane House from Ballyvolane House in Co. Cork won the Intangiable Cultural Heritage Award.

Paddling the Past - A Heritage kayak tour of the River Bride from the Conna Community Council Cork won the Water Heritage Award.

Toibreacha Beannaithe Chontae na Gaillimhe from Galway County Council in Co. Galway won the Irish Language Award

Native Woodland Re-Establishments from Woodlands of Ireland in Co. Sligo won the Sustainability & Climate Award.

Virginia Teehan, Chief Executive of the Heritage Council, said: The Heritage Council would like to extend its warm congratulations to the runners-up of this years National Heritage Week Awards. The standard of entries was exceptionally high, and the projects recognised as runners-up demonstrated remarkable creativity, commitment, and community spirit. Each of them made an outstanding contribution to celebrating and safeguarding Irelands heritage. We are deeply appreciative of the passion and dedication shown by all those involved, and we take great pride in supporting their efforts to keep our shared heritage alive for future generations.

Offaly Co Council Heritage Officer, Amanda Pedlow, said: I am very proud to say that For the Love of Bats in Ballycumber, County Offaly, was recognised as a runner-up in the National Heritage Week Awards. This delightful family-friendly event combined biodiversity education with community art, featuring bat foraging activities, creative workshops, and the unveiling of a community mosaic mural celebrating local wildlife. Congratulations to everyone involved for their dedication, creativity, and commitment to preserving and sharing our natural heritage.

READ NEXT: New two-storey building approved for Offaly School of Special Education in Tullamore
The note on my phone consisted of just three words: A reasonable Rapture.

They were the result of venturing out of the house and out of my own mind to have coffee with a friend. I think they call it a conversation.

I am often amazed at what comes out of my mouth when I leave my mind behind. But this, the more I looked at it, it started to make sense.

What is a reasonable Rapture? I asked myself. Or, more accurately, what would a reasonable Rapture look like if there was ever to be one? Well, that certainly stirs the creative juices.

The traditional view of the Rapture among some evangelical Christians is that Jesus will return to "catch up" living believers to meet him in the air, while dead believers will be resurrected to join him. The rest of us non-believers will be left behind to deal with the Tribulations.

Most Christian denominations do not ascribe to this view and the term Rapture is not specifically mentioned in the Bible. However, many American evangelicals do believe in it and the concept has been the subject of several books and movies.

So what would a reasonable Rapture be for me? Being a non-believer in this particular case, I start by assuming I am part of the left-behind crowd. The ones who discover empty clothes lying on the ground where their loved ones or nosy neighbors used to be. It could be a little freaky. No goodbye note, no text, just a pile of laundry.

In my case, it would be reasonable to believe that my loved ones and a fair amount of my friends would also still be here, scratching their heads, wondering where all the other people went.

Then, one of the more informed would remember seeing a social media post about some evangelicals who believed in something called the Rapture. Up in the sky. Goodbye. Someone else would remember reading the book or seeing the movie Left Behind.

Well, OK then. Let's see who is still here. Seeing as the evangelicals who were believers were also big Trump fans, we could assume that a lot of the MAGA crowd were, uh, gone.

That's good. Stress level on the planet should fall by about 50%. That's reasonable. But what about the Tribulations? Trump would still be around because, for all his kissing up to the evangelicals, everything about him is a big lie. No Rapture for him.

But would it not be reasonable to assume that, with all his followers up in the sky flying to their just reward, he would be a cult leader without a cult? That should clear the way for impeachment proceedings in Congress, conviction, arrests on various felony charges, including those connected with the Epstein files, and humiliation on the world stage. Other than Stephen Miller, Pam Bondi, Kristi Noem and Pete Hegseth, who would care?

That would leave us with JD Vance as president, which is no prize, but still better than Trump. Vance has zero personality and, with most of MAGA gone, no real following. As someone who has shown he is more than willing to change his opinion and politics and rsum to save his career, he might be more than willing to do so to save his soul. Sounds reasonable and it would give him a great story for his second novel.

Whatever, he would just be a short term fill-in while political leaders of both parties (but especially Republicans) in this country. start thinking about ways to work together again. I mean, wouldn't that be a reasonable message from a Rapture?

The ICE workers, most of whom would likely still be here, could be reassigned to going around the country and picking up all the laundry lying in the streets as part of their prison work release program.

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Alon-Lee Green, Sally Abed, Brad Lander

(Image by Gili Getz) Details DMCA



On November 12, in the cool Brooklyn evening air, a line several people abreast snaked around the block that houses St. Ann and the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church. They were waiting patiently to enter the impressive sanctuary that seats over 600 people.

"What's going on?" one passerby asked me. I told her that Sally Abed and Alon-Lee Green, the co-directors of Standing Together, were on a panel. "Do you know who they are?" I followed up. "Yeah, I've heard of them,' she replied before walking away.

A young guy was handing out leaflets about the need to primary Rep. Dan Goldman. (He had the right crowd.) Ironically, the evening's moderator, City Controller Brad Lander, has been dropping hints that he is interested in Goldman's seat.

I was standing next to Rabbi Abby Stein (a tenth-generation descendant of the Baal Shem Tov, founder of the Hasidic movement), who gave my friend an impromptu primer about the views of various Hasidic sects on the state of Israel and the role of the Crusaders in the history of Jerusalem.

Inside, New York City Friends of Standing Together had their volunteers checking people in, handing out literature for an upcoming training session, and announcing their presence by wearing deep purple T-shirts that read, "Where there is struggle, there is hope." A one-pager announced its mission with the sentence, "Find your voice in the struggle against authoritarianism in Israel-Palestine and here in NYC."

When everyone was finally seated, the three speakers came to the podium. The audience greeted them with a big round of applause. Lander began the conversation, announcing that they had both given him the courage to address the Occupation publicly.

Abed, who went first, said, "We come here holding so much grief and pain. We are in this together. We are one movement fighting authoritarians here in the United States and Israel-Palestine. It is a war against all our humanity." Pointing out that the Israeli army now holds 50 percent of the Gaza Strip and that the bombing and starvation continue, Abed emphasized, "This is by no means a ceasefire. The West Bank is on fire. The West Bank is screaming."

A new mother, Abed, 34, was the first member of the Joint List to serve in the Haifa City Council. She discussed building "a new alternative to the politics oppressing us," creating a society where "justice, peace, and liberation" were linked to advancing better housing, transportation, education, and other municipal concerns. She noted that "a decade ago, there was no space to be a Palestinian citizen of Israel" while being herself. "Our political project is the most revolutionary thing I can do."

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The company GSC Game World (Kyiv), which develops computer games, has been declared an "undesirable organization" in Russia.

As reported by the Russian Prosecutor Generals Office on Tuesday, GSC Game World financially supports the Ukrainian Armed Forces, "creates an image of Russia as an aggressor state" by spreading "materials that discredit the country." The company has repeatedly announced fundraising both on its own website and through the Lesia UA fund, which supports Ukrainian servicemen, as well as through the international charity foundation Come Back Alive.

According to Russian prosecutors, in 2022 approximately $17 million was transferred to the fund supporting Ukrainian servicemen, which was used to purchase strike UAVs, components for them, and vehicles.

"In 2024, the organization released a computer game that promotes Ukrainian narratives containing aggressive Russophobic content," the Russian agency added.

Founded in 1995, GSC Game World is engaged in computer programming, video game development, software provision, and IT consulting. The companys best-known game series are Cossacks and S.T.A.L.K.E.R.
Scott Dylan a Prison Reform Advocate calls for urgent systemic reform and investment in the UK Prison System after MPs highlight overcrowding, crumbling prisons, and 
Amir H Greiss, Founder and CEO of Dubai-based multidisciplinary consultancy SharpMinds discussed why human-centred, sustainable design is emerging as a core client priority, opportunities in 
Freeland Spirits, a small-batch distillery based in Portland, now has a kiosk in the Portland International Airport, with a full storefront there planned for 2026. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Holiday shopping at the airport? Before you ask, no, this isnt a joke, because yes, the Portland International Airport happens to be the perfect place to do some serious gift shopping.

Whether youre flying into or out of PDX (or even if youre not flying and want to peruse the shops pre-security), lots of local shops are at your disposal. Because this is Portland, the operative word here is local: The spots sell locally made everything, from gin to music to backpacks. There are even a few kitschy gift shops for good measure.

The key to airport shopping is to give yourself plenty of time and be prepared to do a lot of walking. Sure, you can swing by whatever shop happens to be near your gate, but to truly take advantage of the retail options at PDX, you need to do a bit of exploring  thank goodness there are a ton of great food options as well.

Here are 11 great gifts to pick up at the airport this season.

Freeland Spirits, a small-batch distillery based in Portland, now has a kiosk in the Portland International Airport, with a full storefront there planned for 2026. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Forest Gin

Few drinks embody the Pacific Northwest like Freeland Spirits Forest Gin, made with chanterelle mushrooms, Douglas fir tips, salal berries and nettles. You can pick up a bottle at the Portland distillerys kiosk in the North Concession Hall, where you can also grab bottles of their flagship Freeland Gin and their bold Dry Gin.

Open 7 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; North Concession Hall (gates D, E); freelandspirits.com.

Hello From Portland at Portland International Airport. Veronica Nocera

Sasquatch stocking stuffers

If youre shopping for that Sasquatch lover in your life, look no further than Hello From Portland, a gift shop in the Main Terminal, where you can find a trove of kitschy Bigfoot gifts. Pick up a Sassy Sasquatch stuffie, a Sasquatch hunting permit, Sasquatch Doo candy and any number of T-shirts, patches, keychains and magnets.

Open 5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; Main Terminal; hellofromportland.net.

A new Pendleton storefront has opened just past security in the Portland International Airport. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

The perfect flannel shirt

Nothing says Oregon like a Pendleton shirt. The eastern Oregon woolen mill now churns out all manner of goods, from towels to sunglass, in addition to the wool blankets and shirts theyre best known for. Their new airport shop has a lot in stock, and is an easy place to do some serious shopping. Flannel shirts are an obvious gift, but for those with a higher budget, consider going all-out on a Pendleton blanket. You wont regret it.

Open 5 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; North Concession Hall (gates D, E); pendleton-usa.com.

Local apparel company Portland Gear has opened a kiosk in the Portland International Airport, with a full storefront planned for 2026. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Weatherproof Portland backpack

Walk around Portland enough and youll start to see the Portland Gear backpacks popping up everywhere. The meticulously designed weather-proof backpacks have become go-to gear in town, and with a Portland Gear kiosk at PDX, theyre easy to export. Backpacks come in standard and compact sizes, and are offered in a rainbow of colors.

Open 6 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; North Concession Hall (gates D, E); portlandgear.com.

Cans of classic cocktails are offered at Straightaway Cocktails, which produces various lines of prepared, top-shelf cocktails and which celebrated its fourth anniversary in December of 2022. Andre Meunier/Staff

Canned craft cocktails

While Straightaway Cocktails continues work on a full-fledged storefront, the Portland company is selling its canned cocktails out of a tiny bar just past the south security checkpoint. Grab a four-pack of the Oregon Old Fashioned, Margarita or Negroni, or get a taster flight to sip on while youre there.

Open 8 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; South Concession Hall (gates B, C); straightawaycocktails.com.

Steven Smith Teamaker has opened a kiosk in the Portland International Airport, with a full storefront planned for 2026. Jamie Hale/The Oregonian

Tea sampler pack

Steven Smith Teamaker, the Portland-based tea company, has a kiosk and small tea bar in the North Concession Hall as it works to open a full storefront in 2026. Travelers can purchase boxes of tea to take home, or tea on tap to go. The choose-your-own sampler pack makes a nice gift, with so many herbal and caffeinated teas to try.

Open 7 a.m.-4 p.m. daily; North Concession Hall (gates D, E); smithtea.com.

Slippers at cc McKenzie at PDX on Nov. 7, 2024. Lizzy Acker/The Oregonian

Cozy slippers

Bend-based boutique ccMcKenzie has been holding down a spot in Concourse C, where travelers can browse a selection of womens clothing, shoes and accessories, including several pairs of very cozy looking slippers. The stores offshoot, Calliope, offers personalized merchandise and gifts in Concourse E.

Open 5 a.m.-9 p.m. daily; Concourse C; ccmckenzie.com.

Paper Epiphanies, a feminist greeting card company, opened a location at Portland International Airport in August. Veronica Nocera

Feminist stationary

Paper Epiphanies, or PiPH for short, is women-run and offers feminist stationery, greeting cards, journals, stickers and more. The store offers designs for a variety of classic and overlooked situations: birthdays, friendship, death, motherhood and more. Its also one of the few spots in the airport where you can snag a pen.

Open 5 a.m.-8 p.m. daily; Main Terminal; piphpaper.com.

Missionary Chocolates at Portland International Airport. Veronica Nocera

Vegan chocolate truffles

Missionary Chocolates specializes in gluten-free, vegan chocolate truffles, but thats far from the only thing its thought to envelope in chocolate. Grab a bag of chocolate-covered figs, potato chips, cinnamon gummy bears, cherries, pretzels, marshmallows  or just a classic bar.

Open 7 a.m.-6 p.m. daily; Main Terminal; missionary-chocolates.myshopify.com.

Orox Leather Co. at Portland International Airport. Veronica Nocera

Handcrafted leather goods

Orox Leather Co. is a local family-owned leather business, run by fourth-generation Mexican American artisans. In its airport shop, Orox offers a vast selection of colorful leather handbags, wallets, belts, hats and more.

Open 7 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; Main Terminal; oroxleather.com

Powell's Books opened a temporary kiosk at Portland International Airport in August 2024. It plans a bigger store in January 2026. Mike Rogoway/The Oregonian

Paperbacks galore

The airport outpost of Powells Books, one of Portlands most famous attractions, is still in the works, with plans to open in 2026. For now, a kiosk offers a small selection of books from nonfiction to fantasy. When in full operation, this will be a go-to storefront in the airport, but its still worth a stop now.

Open 6 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; South Concession Hall (gates B, C); powells.com.

One of two Tender Loving Empire shops in the Portland International Airport, this one in Concourse E. Port of Portland

Local music

Tender Loving Empire, a record label and gift shop chain based in Portland, is a great addition to the airport shopping scene, selling locally made gifts and music in two locations. In addition to local music on either CD or vinyl, the shop is a great spot to find a small gift, like a bud vase, keychain, candle or beanie.

Open 5 a.m.-7 p.m. daily; Concourse D; 5 a.m.-10 p.m. daily; Concourse E; tenderlovingempire.com.
After a humpback whale came ashore near Yachats entangled in crab pot rope, rescuers removed the gear, but the animal remained stranded alive on the beach for roughly 48 hours before it was euthanized Monday.

In its wake, we examined whale entanglements along the West Coast.

Entanglements occur when a human-made material  such as fishing line, rope, nets, or other gear or debris  becomes attached to or wrapped around a whales body, or ingested and becomes embedded in the whales mouth or throat.

Confirmed humpback entanglements off Washington, Oregon and California have increased dramatically since 2014. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration scientists say the jump isnt just the result of more fishing gear  its the collision of recovering whale populations, climate-driven shifts in prey that pushed feeding humpbacks into nearshore waters, and delayed or extended fixed-gear seasons, especially the Dungeness crab season.

In warm-water years, like from 2014 to 2016, krill and anchovy swam into shallower waters closer to the coast  the same waters frequented by crabbers. Whales followed their prey straight into the crab lines.

At least some of the increase is because there are more boats, phones and trained responders, which means more cases are reported and confirmed than in the early 2000s.

26 1 / 26 Humpback whale stranded alive at the waters edge near YachatsMark Graves

Learn more and get involved:

NOAA Fisheries

Past whale stories:
Providence Health & Services is cutting more than 150 jobs across Oregon, the latest round of reductions as the states largest health system continues to confront significant financial strain. Pictured is Providence Office Park, which houses the Catholic not-for-profit's regional headquarters in Oregon. Providence Health & Services Oregon

Providence Health & Services is cutting more than 150 jobs across Oregon, the latest round of reductions as the states largest health system continues to confront significant financial strain.

The layoffs, announced Tuesday, affect employees across Providences hospitals, outpatient clinics and its insurance arm, Providence Health Plan.

Most of the eliminated positions do not involve direct patient care, officials said, but they did not indicate which services or locations would be affected.

Providence earlier this year eliminated about 250 jobs in Oregon, including frontline and non-clinical positions.

In a message to employees, Jennifer Burrows, chief executive of Providence Oregon, said the job cuts are part of the Catholic not-for-profit health systems ongoing effort to steady its finances. She said Providence has been squeezed by rising costs and persistent workforce challenges that have grown more severe due to recent policy changes and regulatory pressures.

The Renton, Washington-based health system has a major footprint in Oregon, operating eight hospitals and more than 90 clinics across the state. Its insurance subsidiaries  Providence Health Plan and Providence Health Assurance  cover roughly 550,000 people through commercial, Medicaid and Medicare Advantage plans, according to its most recent financial filings.

Those filings show Providence Oregon posted an operating loss of nearly $255 million through the end of September.

Providence has said a 46-day strike that began in mid-January contributed to the deficit, as the system hired costly temporary staff to maintain services. New state laws requiring higher staffing levels, capping annual cost growth and expanding access to free and discounted care have also strained its finances, according to Providences financial disclosure.

To cut costs, Providence has already enacted several belt-tightening measures. Earlier this year, Providence CEO Erik Wexler announced a systemwide hiring freeze along with reductions in employee travel and community sponsorships. Providence officials have also warned that financial pressures were likely to persist through the rest of the year  and potentially beyond.

In August, Providence eliminated 128 jobs in Oregon that affected a wide range of union-represented and nonunion workers, including nurses, clinical staff, researchers and administrative employees.

That followed a broader reduction in June, when the health system cut 600 positions across its seven-state network, including 134 clinicians and administrative staff in Oregon.

On Tuesday, Burrows said Providence has made progress but would need to continue reshaping its operations to align expenses with revenue. She said Providence is supporting impacted employees and will try to place them in other roles when possible.
An engraving of Abraham Lincoln's Gettysburg Address on 19 November 1863. (Photo by Archive Photos/Getty Images) Getty Images

Today in history:

On Nov. 19, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln delivered the Gettysburg Address at the dedication of a national cemetery at the site of the Civil War battlefield of Gettysburg in Pennsylvania.

Also on this date:

In 1959, Ford Motor Co. announced it was halting production of the unpopular Edsel.

In 1969, Apollo 12 astronauts Charles Conrad and Alan Bean made the second crewed landing on the moon.

In 1977, Egyptian President Anwar Sadat became the first Arab leader to visit Israel.

In 1985, President Ronald Reagan and Soviet leader Mikhail S. Gorbachev met for the first time as they began their summit in Geneva.

In 1998, Independent Counsel Kenneth Starr testified before the House Judiciary Committee during impeachment hearings against President Bill Clinton.(The full House approved two articles of impeachment against Clinton that December; Clinton was later acquitted in a Senate trial).

In 2017, Charles Manson, the cult leader behind the murders of actress Sharon Tate and six others in Los Angeles in 1969, died in a California hospital at the age of 83 after nearly a half-century in prison.

In 2022, five people were killed and 25 injured when a shooter opened fire at an LGBTQ+ nightclub in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
As Portland City Council prepares to vote today on a rental software ban, its important to understand what this policy would do (Portland council resurrects proposal to ban rent-setting algorithms, Nov. 12). Even with a late amendment carving out small housing providers, it would still prohibit basic tools used every day to understand the market, make independent decisions and keep rents stable. At a time when Portland faces a significant housing shortage, this approach risks making the problem worse.

The intent behind the proposal is understandable. Price-fixing is illegal, and it should be. If any platform ever enables competitors to coordinate pricing, cities should intervene. Housing providers agree that true coordination has no place in the rental market.

But this proposal doesnt target coordinated algorithms. Instead, it sweeps in common-sense tools that help providers analyze vacancy rates, turnover patterns and neighborhood trends. This is the same kind of information used across many industries to understand demand. These systems dont dictate rents. They help providers interpret information already in the market, which keeps pricing consistent rather than volatile.

Other cities have already learned this lesson. Berkeley adopted a similar ban, faced a lawsuit almost immediately and then rewrote the ordinance with input from housing providers and technical experts. Portland should take the same collaborative path.

Housing providers share the citys goals around fairness, equity and protecting renters. But this proposal goes further than necessary and risks unintended harm. Before finalizing this policy, Council should pause, consult stakeholders and craft a targeted approach that protects renters without weakening Portlands already fragile housing system.

Gary Fisher

Fisher is the executive director of Tigard-based Multifamily NW.

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
A replica fire lookout tower stands outside of the Tillamook Forest Center off Oregon 6. Molly J. Smith/The Oregonian files

The Tillamook Fire District has settled a lawsuit filed by two former firefighters for $300,000.

The two ex-employees, Kyle Adams and Kris Davis, sued the district last year  alleging they were forced to resign after they raised concerns about the fire chief and he retaliated against them.

Adams and Davis had hoped to get their jobs back through a legal battle. Instead, they each received $150,000 as part of a settlement approved in June. It left the duo with mixed feelings.

We werent out for money, Davis said in a recent interview.

Their complaints against Jeff McBrayer, the fire chief from August 2023 to April 2024, focused on his use of a district vehicle, absences, purchases on a government credit card and statements to the media.

A report issued by the fire board cleared McBrayer of the allegations, finding that McBrayer had followed existing policy regarding vehicle use, but wrote the policy had been amended to suggest the vehicle remain within the district.

The report also found that the purchases were for innocuous vehicle equipment that was located on district property, his statements to the media were broadly appropriate and that he informed coworkers of the absences while experiencing family-related issues.

McBrayer is now fire chief in Netarts-Oceanside.

We maintained that there was no wrongdoing, and appreciate everybodys patience and understanding during that difficult time, McBrayer said in a Monday interview.

Voters rejected a property tax increase to fund the fire district last year, in part due to other litigation filed in recent years by the districts handful of employees.

The series of incidents included a 2022 revenge porn investigation opened by local police after firefighter Alan Christensen was caught masturbating inside the firehouse mechanic bay on a camera set up by another employee.

The video was spread over messaging apps and even played at a Super Bowl watch party, according to a police report obtained by The Oregonian/OregonLive. Authorities ultimately declined to file charges against anyone who recorded or shared the video, determining Christensen was in public and therefore had no right to privacy.

Christensen, 46, resigned in the wake of the incident but soon found a position as fire chief in neighboring Bay City. Tillamook Fire District then signed an agreement bringing him back on as an employee as part of an intergovernmental agreement. The board approved raising his pay to $50 an hour in June.

Tillamook and Bay City are now pursuing a merger of their fire district and expect to put the question to voters next year.

Christensen declined to comment, as did Tillamook Fire District Board Chair Casey Burden.
Members of the Oregon National Guard come and go in uniform at the Oregon National Guard Readiness Center in Salem on Oct. 2, 2025. Fedor Zarkhin/The Oregonian

Oregon National Guard members released from federal duties in Oregon will now have to travel to Texas to demobilize from their mission.

U.S. Northern Command ordered the Oregon National Guard to end the federal mission of half of the 200 Oregon National Guard troops called up by the federal government in late September to protect federal buildings in Portland, including the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility, Gov. Tina Kotek said on Monday. The federal government also extended the deployment for the other 100 Oregon troops, she said.

The Oregon National Guard members ending their missions will travel to Fort Hood in Texas for the demobilization process, which includes medical and mental health screenings and administrative duties like dealing with their pay, said Lt. Col. Stephen Bomar, director of public affairs for the Oregon Military Department.

If Oregon National Guard troops had been asked by the governor to perform an in-state mission, like responding to a fire or a flood, they would stay in Oregon to demobilize when that mission wound down, Bomar said. But there is no place in Oregon for National Guard members to demobilize from a federal mission, Bomar said, so troops will travel out of state like they would when returning from an international deployment. The federal government picks up that tab, he said.

The demobilization process typically takes about a week, Bomar said, and the troops have earned about five days of leave. All in, their federal commitment will have spanned about 50 days, he said.

Bomar couldnt give an estimate for when the Oregon troops would return home and deferred questions about that to the federal government. But he said its possible that the troops headed to Texas will be back before Thanksgiving.

U.S. Northern Command did not immediately respond to questions Tuesday about when those Oregon National Guard troops are likely to return from Texas.

The 200 California National Guard troops called up to Oregon returned home on Monday, Kotek said.

Kotek called for the federal government to release the remaining 100 Oregon National Guard troops from their deployment. She pointed out that it has been more than 10 days since a federal judge permanently blocked their deployment to the ICE facility. The Trump Administration has appealed that ruling and is fighting to keep control of the remaining Oregon National Guard troops in the meantime.

Members of the Oregon National Guard, who are our friends and neighbors, have been away from their families and jobs for 50 days on an unnecessary deployment, Kotek wrote in a statement. With the holidays approaching, every single member deserves to go home.
With nine federally recognized tribes  and many others in the surrounding areas of the Pacific Northwest  Oregons landscape is a tapestry of its Native American history.

In Portland, where less than 2% of the population identifies as Native American, Native-owned brick and mortars are few and far between. Those that do exist, though, span several industries  from restaurants to cosmetics stores, coffee shops to tattoo parlors  and play a significant role in amplifying the citys Indigenous voices.

For Morning Dove Barranger, who owns a clean beauty store in Southeast Portland, part of being an Indigenous business owner is engaging in constant education.

I still have people coming into the shop who dont think Native people exist, which is really sort of crazy, she said. They think of us as being people that still live off the land  which a lot of people still do  but not an urban Native.

Fronting a Native-owned business sends a powerful message: Indigenous people are not mystical creatures, Barranger said.

Were humans, she said. Were here, and we should be taking up space.

Here are three Indigenous-owned businesses in Portland to visit this November during Native American Heritage Month  and all year round.

24 1 / 24 Coral Story Beauty

Coral Story Beauty

Even on a gloomy November afternoon, Coral Story Beauty lures customers in like a candy store of cosmetics  shelves on shelves of creams and cleansers weaving through colorful art prints, leafy plants and bold pink accents.

With dozens of clean beauty brands available to peruse  many from BIPOC, LGBTQ+ and Two-Spirit creators  its the perfect place to lose track of time. You can spend an hour browsing soap bars and eye shadow palettes, each printed with intricate designs by Native American artist Lauren Good Day, then finish the day off with a facial.

Barranger prioritizes stocking Native or locally made products. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

Its a full circle moment for owner Morning Dove Barranger, who started Coral Story Beauty as a pop-up business in October 2018.

Barranger grew up in eastern Montana as part of the Fort Peck Assiniboine and Sioux Tribe. Raised in an Indigenous, lower-income household, she said, her mom gravitated toward all-natural beauty remedies, like using olive oil as face moisturizer.

After experiencing a range of skin issues while pregnant with her son, Barranger launched her own postpartum research into clean beauty  discoveries that became the focal point of Coral Story Beauty.

Its kind of going back to what Indigenous people learn, she said. Getting things from the land and natural products, not all these things that are synthetically made.

Coral Story Beauty stocks several Indigenous beauty brands, including Portland-based Rose Alchemista and Sakari Farms in central Oregon. The store sells The Seven Circles, a self-help guide based on Indigenous teachings, as well as You Are on Native Land caps and beanies.

Barranger priorities stocking products that are Native or locally made. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

Morning Dove Barranger is the owner of Coral Beauty Story in Southeast Portland. Her love for green beauty began with her mother using a lot of natural, household items as beauty products in her upbringing. Allison Barr/The Oregonian

In September, Barranger moved out of her original 800-square-foot storefront on Southeast Division Street and into a new 2,000-square-foot space just down the road.

The expansion allowed Barranger to grow Coral Story Beautys spa services, she said. Individuals can book a facial consultation or 60- to 90-minute sessions featuring exfoliation, massage, gua sha and face masks on the website.

Barranger also plans to use the new lounge space and enclosed back patio to host classes and workshops, all while continuing to build on the business past community involvement.

This November, Coral Story Beauty is preparing to once again partner with Portlands Native American Youth and Family Center for its annual gift drive. Customers will soon see a tree on display at the store, along with ornaments pairing participants with Native kids or teens in foster care.

Youre coming here, and youre just becoming part of a community, Barranger said. Thats kind of what weve always been rooted in.

3121 S.E. Division St., 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily; coralstorybeauty.com.

7 1 / 7 Tattoo 34 PDX in Southeast Portland

Tattoo 34

Discretely tucked away in a blue paneled house on Southeast Hawthorne Boulevard, itd be fair to confuse Tattoo 34 for a museum upon first entering.

Gold-framed drawings line the hallway, leading customers into the studios arched entryway, tangled with vines and other greenery. Artists decorate their own work stations  action figures and butterfly prints displayed alongside colorful bottles of ink  and art from across the world fills the waiting area.

Tattoo artists who work at Tattoo 34 PDX, an Indigenous and Black owned tattoo shop in Southeast Portland, display items by their work stations. November 10, 2025 Beth Nakamura

Its a cozy space with an inviting air, natural extensions of the environments owner Toby Linwood and his wife, Nisha Supahan, were raised within.

The couple both come from Indigenous families: Supahan is part of the Karuk Tribe and grew up on the Hoopa Reservation in California, while Linwood is both Wampanoag and Ojibwe, as well as a member of the Westbank First Nation in British Columbia.

Though they come from different tribes, Supahan said, she and Linwood instantly bonded over a shared community-oriented upbringing  sensibilities that seep into the business itself.

We like people around, Supahan said. We like a positive space. We like to invite people in and make friends Thats what weve brought, and people have caught on.

The decor at Tattoo 34 is rich with stories, many of which tie back to Linwood and Supahan, who opened the parlor together nearly a decade ago.

Theres a copy of Fight Club author Chuck Palahniuks 2020 book Consider This inscribed with a personal note from the novelist that reads Dont just get inked, get Toby. Palahniuk commissioned Linwood to do all the art for the book  part memoir, part writing guide  with each drawing paired with a related quote.

(The story goes, according to Linwood, that Palahniuk almost cemented the collaboration with a spur-of-the-moment face tattoo before changing his mind.)

The shelves in Tattoo 34 PDX offer a variety of items, including a book (right) whose cover features a self-portrait taken by shop owner Nisha Supahan. The book, About Face: Self-Portraits by Native American, First Nations, and Inuit Artists, is a catalogue of work taken from a exhibit held in 2006 at the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian in Santa Fe, New Mexico. November 10, 2025 Beth Nakamura

On the other end of the shelf, sandwiched by leaves and a set of small Madonna statues, sits a 2006 book titled About Face: Self-Portraits by Native American, First Nations, and Inuit Artists, a black-and-white photo of one of its young subjects plastered on the cover.

That woman is Supahan, whose self portrait was also featured in the corresponding exhibit at the Wheelwright Museum of the American Indian.

Representation, Supahan said, is a key element in how she approaches the business.

While crafting the website, she was intentional about using her platform to debunk misconceptions and uplift other creators of color. One section addresses myths about tattooing darker skin, and another includes a directory of Indigenous tattoo artists across the Pacific Northwest.

For Linwood, whos been tattooing  albeit, not professionally  since he was 13 years old, the art of tattoo is not to be taken lightly. The practice has existed for thousands of years, he said, often playing a significant role in spiritual or ceremonial traditions.

Ive always looked at tattooing as a sacred thing, he said.  Theres a respect and an honor behind tattooing that I dont think a lot of other shops or tattooers carry.

4035 S.E. Hawthorne Blvd., walk-ins available noon-6 p.m. Wednesday and Sunday or by appointment all other days; tattoo34pdx.com.

34 1 / 34 Bison Coffeehouse Portland 2025Mark Graves

Bison Coffeehouse

The watchful bison head looming over Northeast Portlands quaint (and aptly named) Bison Coffeehouse may be the cafes most striking piece of decor, but its one of many with a story to tell.

A member of the Shoshone-Bannock tribes of Fort Hall, Idaho, owner Loretta Guzmans connection to the animal spans generations  long before she opened Bison Coffeehouse on Veterans Day in November 2014. The Bannock people are bison hunters, she said, and the creature has long been regarded as a symbol of resilience.

Guzman was born in Portland, but the coffeehouse gets its name from a dream she had while living on the reservation in Idaho, where she had returned to receive treatment for cancer.

I had a dream of a really big bison, and he kept trying to get close to me, Guzman recalled. He got closer and closer until the door was between me and him, and it was just one side of him. His eye was looking at me.

When Guzman retold the dream to her stepfather, she said, he explained that the bison was her grandparents willing her to get better. Soon, she went into remission.

Bison Coffeehouse, Portlands only Indigenous-owned coffee shop, at 3941 N.E. Cully Blvd. in Portland, Ore., on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025. Owner Loretta Guzman opened the coffeehouse in November 2014. Mark Graves, The Oregonian/OregonLive

Back in Portland, Guzman knew her coffeehouse needed a bison. She put in bids across the region, she said, prepared to road trip as far as California or Montana for the perfect piece.

Her search eventually ended far closer to home, in a warehouse near Northwest 23rd Avenue. The bison  once named Geronimo and used for breeding in Oregon, Guzman learned  was supposed to adorn a local beer bar before its owners plans fell through.

Guzman drove her mothers van across town and bought it right away.

Today, the bison head is firmly mounted on the wall of Bison Coffeehouse, surrounded by wall-to-wall pieces of Indigenous artwork gifted by friends, family and loyal customers.

A massive bison pelt hangs above a wooden table  painted with a colorful scene of Guzman and her two sisters participating in a Sun Dance, a sacred Indigenous ceremony often associated with spiritual renewal or healing. It was made by Guzmans niece, artist Willow Kipp.

Guzmans father, Gary Goose Guzman, is depicted in the painting as a bird within the sun.

The building that now houses Bison Coffeehouse, Guzman said, originally belonged to her father, who used it as a storage space for his Harley-Davidson motorcycle shop next door.

My father was a really big supporter of us throughout our whole entire lives, Guzman said. (He wanted) us to know who we are, where we come from and who our people are.

This pride for her familys heritage is evident throughout Bison Coffeehouse.

Bison Coffeehouse, Portlands only Indigenous-owned coffee shop, at 3941 N.E. Cully Blvd. in Portland, Ore., on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025. Owner Loretta Guzman opened the coffeehouse in November 2014. Mark Graves, The Oregonian/OregonLive

Bison Coffeehouse, Portlands only Indigenous-owned coffee shop, at 3941 N.E. Cully Blvd. in Portland, Ore., on Monday, Nov. 17, 2025. Owner Loretta Guzman opened the coffeehouse in November 2014. Mark Graves, The Oregonian/OregonLive

Aside from the abundance of Indigenous art  decor that intentionally represents various tribes, Guzman said  the cafe works with roasters like Native Coffee Traders, which is based on the Poospatuck Indian Reservation in New York.

Several items on the menu are also Native-inspired, Guzman said, like the Sundance latte, which is flavored with sage and mint, or various huckleberry drinks.

Through Bison Coffeehouse, she said, Guzman strives to defy the many stereotypes that have been placed on Native Americans and create a place where members of the community can be proud of their heritage.

For a long time, our people were embarrassed of who we were, she said. I want to uplift us.

3941 N.E. Cully Blvd., 6 a.m.-2 p.m. Monday-Friday, 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday-Sunday; bisoncoffeehouse.com.
The decision of Paris Court of Appeal dated October 29, 2025 on the refusal of the NABU and SAPO to extradite Ukrainian businessman Kostiantyn Zhevago has come into force as final, the businessman's lawyers report.

"The French prosecutor's office agreed with the decision of Paris Court and decided not to appeal it to the Supreme Court of France. This is the second refusal by the French justice authorities to extradite Mr. Zhevago," their statement reads on Wednesday.

The lawyers recalled that the extradition request for Zhevago was initiated by the Prosecutor General's Office of Ukraine (PGO) and NABU within the framework of the investigation of criminal proceedings related to the alleged provision of an illegal benefit to a representative of the judiciary.

As reported, the extradition request for Zhevago was initiated by the PGO and the NABU as part of the investigation of criminal proceedings in which law enforcement officers accuse the businessman of providing an illegal benefit to Chairman of the Supreme Court Vsevolod Kniazev.

In turn, Zhevago rejected the accusation and declared his non-involvement in the incriminated actions, his willingness to assist the investigation, and regarded the case as an attempt at political persecution and pressure. Among other things, his lawyers criticized the decision of the Ukrainian court to conduct a special investigation (without the participation of the suspect) and emphasized the possibility of conducting investigative actions within the framework of international legal assistance, since the NABU detective and the SAPO prosecutor had previously personally arrived in France to interrogate Zhevago.

This is the second refusal by the French court to extradite a Ukrainian businessman. At the end of March 2023, a court in Chambery (France) rejected the request of the State Bureau of Investigation and the Prosecutor General's Office for the extradition of Zhevago in another case - for accusations, together with a number of top managers of the Finance and Credit bank, of organizing a mechanism for embezzling $113 million and harming the interests of the state and the bank's depositors.
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Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky visited units defending the Pokrovsk-Myrnohrad agglomeration.

"During my visit to Pokrovsk sector, I held a meeting with the command staff of military command agencies, military units, and subunits regarding the situation and actions in specific zones. Enemy activity remains high, and our units' precise coordination and coherence are helping us counter it. We clarified the results of defensive, search-and-strike, and assault operations to stabilize the situation and the order of their implementation going forward," Syrsky wrote on Telegram.

He noted that the command's main priority remains the comprehensive provision of the Ukrainian group in the area.

"I have issued the necessary orders for the immediate delivery of additional weapons. We are working to ensure the stability of our logistics and are taking measures to disrupt the enemy's logistics routes," the commander-in-chief said.

He also added that the enemy in Pokrovsk area is being detected and eliminated both during their attempts to move and at identified staging areas.

"In the previous four days alone, the occupiers suffered 487 casualties in Pokrovsk direction, 350 of which were irreparable. The exchange fund is being replenished with captured Russian soldiers," Syrsky concluded.
Authorities announced that Wilson Middle School would be closed on Nov. 19, out of an abundance of caution, for a suspected Norovirus outbreak after several students reported feeling unwell around lunchtime.

The announcement was made by Superintendent James Anderson, who notified the community on Nov. 18. The closure of Wilson Middle School in Michigan comes as an initial investigation into the incident considered a possible food-related cause. The local Health Department advised that Norovirus was the most likely illness.

Suspected Norovirus Outbreak Forces School Closure

The closure will allow maintenance workers to thoroughly disinfect the entire building to ensure that no other student gets sick. On top of this, the district removed the scheduled turkey entree from the menu at elementary and high schools this week to avoid potential food-related infections.

Additionally, replacement items were being secured and would be finalized sometime soon, with authorities asking families to plan accordingly. Norovirus is a common cause of gastroenteritis and can quickly spread through contaminated food, person-to-person contact, or surfaces, according to Click on Detroit.

The illness is sometimes known as the "stomach flu," but it is completely unrelated to influenza, which primarily affects an individual's respiratory system. Symptoms of Norovirus include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps, which typically last one to two days.

Most of the people who are infected with the illness recover without any medical attention, but severe cases can result in dehydration, particularly among young children and the elderly. The students and staff who experienced symptoms are advised to stay home until 48 hours after symptoms fade.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) advised that in order to slow down the spread of Norovirus, people should wash their hands often, cook shellfish thoroughly, wash fruits and vegetables, clean and disinfect contaminated surfaces, and wash laundry with hot water, CBS News reported.

Outbreak of a Disease

The incident comes as another illness, measles, has been spreading throughout various states, with some seeing an outbreak for the first time. Health officials linked the measles outbreak that started in Texas to another seen in Arizona and Utah.

This disturbing finding could end the United States' status as a country that has long eliminated the disease. It was revealed that the chain of transmission started in January, in a conservative Mennonite group on the western edge of Texas. It then spread to Oklahoma and New Mexico.

Countries can lose their elimination status after 12 months of sustained transmission of a particular disease. If the U.S. is unable to extinguish the measles outbreak by January next year, it will lose its elimination status, which it has held for 25 years, as per the New York Times.
By Brian Niemietz, New York Daily News (TNS)

North Carolina father Wellington Delano Dickens III has allegedly admitted to the death of a fifth child after cops found four of his kids in the trunk of his car last month.

The 38-year-old was arrested on Oct. 27 after he called 911 to report that hed killed his kids, according to the Johnston County Sheriffs Office. When deputies arrived to his home in Zebulon, they found four bodies that appeared to have been in Dickens trunk for a long period of time.

Wellington Delano Dickens III. (Johnston County Sheriff's Office/TNS) TNS

Dickens told investigators the first of his children to die was a 6-year-old girl hed disciplined several months prior, police said. Hes accused of later killing that childs 9-year-old sister by taping her mouth shut when she spoke about her siblings demise, reported Charlotte station WBTV.

His 10-year-old son and 18-year-old stepson were also found dead, police said. The suspect allegedly told investigators he suspected malnutrition was the reason for their deaths.

According to search warrants newly obtained by WBTV, Dickens also admitted to authorities that a fifth child  a 1-month-old boy  had died shortly after they moved into the home. He said his death was the result of an illness and that hed buried the boy in an unmarked 4-foot hole.

The body of that child had not been found as of Tuesday afternoon.

Dickens told investigators he didnt torture his children, but may have punished them harshly.

The Johnston County Sheriffs Department reported finding a 3-year-old boy in his home when they discovered the dead childrens bodies last month. That child appeared unharmed.

Cops said they also found an unusual amount of cleaning supplies and signs of a hasty paint job in some parts of the house.

Dickens was indicted this month on four counts of murder.

Police have released few other details into what led up to the childrens deaths, and investigators are still trying to determine a motive.

According to Sheriff Steve Bizzell, Dickens wife and the mother of the four older kids died in April 2024; however, her death was ruled natural as a result of complications from a miscarriage.
A man was taken to the hospital and placed on a ventilator last weekend after he was knocked out in an attack against him and his wife by a man outside a downtown Harrisburg bar, according to an affidavit of probable cause.

It was the second apparently unprovoked attack reported over the weekend and at least the third since July.

In the most recent incident, police were sent before 2 a.m. Nov. 15 to the 200 block of Pine Street, where they found a man unconscious on the ground.

An officer spoke with the victims wife who said a man punched her in the back of the head before hitting her husband, knocking him to the ground.

Through video surveillance footage and the ID scanner at Nocturnal, a Harrisburg nightclub and bar, investigators say they identified the attacker as Isaiah Hall, of Harrisburg.

The surveillance footage showed Hall walking west on Pine Street and entering Nocturnal around 10:55 p.m. Nov. 14, a few hours before the attack. The venues scanner recorded Halls ID less than 30 seconds later.

The video showed Hall approaching the female victim from behind and punching her in the back of the head with a closed fist. In the same sequence, Hall struck the womans husband in a similar manner.

After the attack, cameras captured a man matching Halls description driving a black Chevrolet Traverse west on Pine Street. Officers also found the car was registered to a woman who shared an address with Hall.

The male victim was taken to Penn State Holy Spirit Medical Center, where he was placed on a ventilator to assist with his breathing. He was in critical but stable condition.

Since this summer, Harrisburg has seen at least two other similar attacks. Police did not answer questions about whether the attacks could be connected or related.

At an unknown time last weekend, two women posted on social media that they were attacked by a man who got out of a black SUV near the Mad Moose Tavern. One woman said her nose was broken. Harrisburg police did not release any information to the public about that attack and did not answer questions from PennLive.

In July, police said a man punched a woman and her neighbor in the head outside of the Mad Moose. One of the victims called the attack completely unprovoked and random.

Mad Moose Tavern and Nocturnal are about half a mile away from each other along North Second Street.

Police charged Hall with one felony count of aggravated assault and one misdemeanor count of simple assault.

After initially being unable to post his $50,000 bond, Hall was booked at the Dauphin County Prison. As of Nov. 17, he has been bonded out ahead of his Nov. 24 preliminary hearing.
A man was found dead on April 17, 2024, at the intersection of Evergreen and Thompson streets (at the end of the road at right) in Harrisburg. Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com Dan Gleiter | dgleiter@pennlive.com

I dont open my mouth about street [expletive] ... But you do something dirty like that?

William Greene shook his head from the witness stand in denial Tuesday morning. He was testifying in the trial against the man accused of killing 43-year-old Dewayne Brown in Harrisburg in April 2024.

They beat that boy for nothing, Greene said. He was drunk, he was defenseless.

Greene took the stand and repeatedly identified Erick Boone, the 29-year-old defendant, as the man who needlessly shot and killed Brown the night of April 17.

Prosecutors say Boone and Marcus Stultz beat up and then robbed Brown inside the USA Fried Chicken store on the 1200 block of Derry Street before Boone followed him and drilled two bullets into his head at around 11:50 p.m. at Evergreen and Thompson streets.

Boones defense attorney, Cory Leshner, told jurors on Monday, theres no doubt Boone and Stultz robbed Brown. But he said Boone shot Brown in self-defense.

Greene walked the jury through the events leading up to the shooting, assisted by a montage of surveillance footage recordings assembled by prosecutors.

Greene told jurors Brown sold drugs outside the USA Fried Chicken that night, and Boone and Stultz took note, especially of the cash exchanged.

Browns home in Huntingdon is around 92 miles west of Harrisburg. It remains unclear why Brown was in Harrisburg the night he died.

After Brown entered the store and placed his order, two men started bothering him, according to Greene, who watched from outside the store looking in through the window.

Greene identified two men in the video as Stultz and Boone.

Boone had his hand in his pocket with a gun and was playing tough and acting superior to Brown, Greene narrated.

You aint taking [expletive] from me, Brown told the two men, according to Greene.

The video footage depicted the man identified as Boone swinging at Brown and bashing him toward the shops counter as the lobby of the shop emptied.

It was him and his lil homie, Greene said of Boone and Stultz, pointing a vindictive finger across the room at Boone. He struck the bull, and the little bull kicked him in the face.

Browns body collapsed off-camera, and Boone held Brown as Stultz rummaged through Browns pockets, Greene said. After they took the money from Browns pockets, Greene said, Stultz kicked Brown multiple times in the head, which banged into another object, according to Greene. They then left USA Fried Chicken.

Browns feet visibly twitched in the corner of the video recording played in court.

As Boone and Stultz walked out of the store, Greene confronted them.

Nah, cuz, that aint right, Greene recalled scolding Boone as he walked past. Let me holler at you real quick.

Boone, who was halfway down the block at that point, turned around and began rapidly walking toward Greene on the video recording.

Mind yo [expletive] business before I shoot you, Greene said Boone told him.

Greene then went inside the store to check on Brown, who had a large gash on his head from where he had hit his head. Brown clearly was not from the area, Greene said, and must have just come from a bar or club. Greene said he wanted to drive Brown downtown to get help.

Brown didnt know his own name or where he was, according to Greene. He kept asking why, why, why over and over. Why they do this to me? Greene recalled Brown asking.

Greene left Brown outside the USA Fried Chicken shop to go find his car on Evergreen Street. But as he left, Brown managed to get to his feet and wandered off to Evergreen and Thompson streets, he said.

2 1 / 2 Evergreen Street shooting

Greene said he had a view from around 30 feet away and saw Boone fatally shoot Brown.

He know he did it, and he aint know I was coming. He forgot about the guy he argued with, Greene said. Thought I was a ghost in the night  but hello. Im here this morning. He know who I am.

Greene stayed with Browns body until police arrived and gave them the information they needed to run down the lead.

Boone faces murder, robbery, conspiracy to commit robbery and firearms-related offenses.

Police initially filed similar charges against Stultz, but the murder charge was withdrawn from his docket. Stultz successfully petitioned the court to be tried separately from Boone and is currently representing himself in his pending case.

The trial is expected to last no later than Thursday.
In this handout photo released by the Bexar County Sheriffs Office, suspect Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez poses for a booking photo on June 2, 2025 in San Antonio, Texas. He was booked on suspicion of murder of Jonathan Joss, a voice actor on the television show "King of the Hill". (Photo by Bexar County Sheriffs Office via Getty Images) Getty Images

The neighbor of former King of the Hill star Jonathan Joss has been charged in his shooting death.

According to multiple reports, Sigfredo Ceja Alvarez, 57, was indicted on one count of murder on Nov. 17 by a grand jury. KTBC reported that Ceja Alvarez was arrested in June on a charge of first-degree murder and released on a $200,000 bond.

Joss, a voice actor best known for his role as John Redcorn on King of the Hill was shot and killed in Texas on June 1.

He was 59.

San Antonio police told USA Today that they responded to a shooting in progress and found the actor near a roadway. Police said they attempted life saving measures until EMS arrived. He was then pronounced dead.

Joss also played the role of Ken Hotate in the NBC Sitcom Parks and Recreation.

Parks and Recreation star Nick Offerman told People Magazine in June that the shows cast was hit hard by the news.

The cast has been texting together about it all day and were just heartbroken, he told the outlet in a statement. Jonathan was such a sweet guy and we loved having him as our Chief Ken Hotate. A terrible tragedy.

Joss husband, Tristan Kern de Gonzalez, posted a statement on Facebook claiming that his death was the result of a homophobic attack.

My husband Jonathan Joss and I were involved in a shooting while checking the mail at the site of our former home, he wrote on Joss Facebook. That home was burned down after over two years of threats from people in the area who repeatedly told us they would set it on fire. We reported these threats to law enforcement multiple times and nothing was done. Throughout that time we were harassed regularly by individuals who made it clear they did not accept our relationship. Much of the harassment was openly homophobic.

When we returned to the site to check our mail we discovered the skull of one of our dogs and its harness placed in clear view, he continued. This caused both of us severe emotional distress. We began yelling and crying in response to the pain of what we saw. While we were doing this a man approached us. He started yelling violent homophobic slurs at us. He then raised a gun from his lap and fired.

De Gonzalez wrote that he and Joss were not armed.

We were not threatening anyone, he wrote. We were grieving. We were standing side by side. When the man fired Jonathan pushed me out of the way. He saved my life. Jonathan is my husband. He gave me more love in our time together than most people ever get. We were newlyweds. We picked Valentines Day. We were in the process of looking for a trailer and planning our future. He was murdered by someone who could not stand the site of two men loving each other. I was with him when he passed. I told him how much he was loved.

De Gonzalez thanked all of Joss fans for supporting him.

Jonathan saved my life, he wrote again. I will carry that forward. I will protect what he built.

Joss also has a long list of credits that includes appearances on television shows such as ER, Charmed, and Friday Night Lights. He also appeared in movies such as The Forever Purge, The Magnificent Seven, and True Grit.
Photo of Stephanie Wallendjack, her artwork, and her first-place trophy for the Lorenzo il Magnifico Award at the Florence Biennale. Courtesy of Stephanie Wallendjack

When Stephanie Wallendjack of South Hanover Township decided to take a ceramics class at HACC for those 65 and older, she never thought it would lead to her winning prestigious art awards in Florence, Italy.

Wallendjack had retired back in 2017, and after a lifetime of what she says was left-brained work (more logic-based versus right-brained people who are typically deemed more creative), she discovered she did have a creative side after all.

I started working with hand-building objects, and my goal was never to make anything functional, Wallendjack said. So really it was just a way to express my creativity, which was a whole discovery in itself. I didnt know I was creative; turns out I am.

Wallendjack took Ceramics 1 and 2 for a full semester before switching to a program that gave her access to studio space at the college. She began making more pieces and has been mentored by Philadelphia-based artist Jerry Bennett, an expert in working with paper clay.

I took a ceramics class and as soon as my hands touched clay, I was just sucked in, Wallendjack said. So its been a joy for me ever since I took my very first ceramics class.

Her continued efforts led to her being discovered by the curatorial team at the Florence Biennale after her daughter, Sarah, helped her create a website to showcase her work.

Wallendjack said she spent nine months working on her application and, after all her hard work, she got in.

I applied upon their invitation to do so, and I got accepted, Wallendjack said. I thought, Im 75, Im going for it, so I packed up my stuff and off I went to Florence.

The Florence Biennale, which showcases the work of contemporary artists, has been held every two years since 1997 and has highlighted their work internationally. The 10-day event was held from Oct. 18 - 26.

With all the artistic work on display, none of it is for sale. Wallendjack described the experience as purely an exchange for artistic voices.

Wallendjack took home the first-place award in the ceramics arts category, winning the exhibitions highest honor, the Lorenzo il Magnifico Award, which she says surprised her.

I really had no expectation of receiving any kind of official acknowledgment, Wallendjack said. So I was shocked. I feel incredibly validated, too, that my art has merit in other peoples eyes.

Winning this award now means her work will be featured in the oldest art institution in the world, the Accademia delle Arti Disegno, founded in 1563 by Giorgio Vasari, earning her a permanent spot in a first-place catalog of the institutions history alongside other featured artists such as Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Galileo Galilei.

Wallendjacks winning pieces will also be on display for a short time from Jan. 10-29, 2026, and she hopes to continue riding the wave of her recent success and, over time, have her work showcased in other exhibitions or museums.

Having received that validation, Im riding this one, Wallendjack said, laughing. I would like to get my work out there. Id like it to find a larger audience than just the space in my home.
Built in 1955, this home offers a lot to like in its single-story, compact footprint.

The home appears to retain its original unaltered layout, which offers an open concept space - long before that became a sought after feature.

22 1 / 22 2166 Yale Avenue: Cool Spaces

The interior is sun-drenched with two custom six-by-nine-foot windows, with transoms, giving views to the outside and allowing the natural light to spill across the floors. One window is by the front door and a matching picture window by the back door, facing into the office room. The living room has its own large picture windows, providing views of the patio and back yard.

The kitchen of the 1,120-square-foot home has been thoroughly updated and modernized with ceiling-height cabinetry with soft-close doors and drawers, tiled backsplash , recessed lighting and rose-gold appliances. A partial wall, separating the room from the living room, is covered in pleasing wallpaper that matches the time period of the home, and has space next to the wall for an eating area.

The living room is the perfect place to enjoy all four seasons. It has facing custom slat accent walls, fireplace, grasscloth wallpaper and pendant lighting.

Next to the living room is one of the three bedrooms, which is currently used as an office room. This space is separated with a large three-section pocket door that can be closed if needed. This room has a closet and a wall of built-in shelving.

Around the corner is another of the three bedrooms, with generous closet space. Next to it is the third bedroom, facing the front of the house, also with generous closet space.

The two bedrooms have new carpeting and updated lighting.

The full bath is next in line, between the bedroom and the kitchen access.

The waterproofed basement has a newly-built laundry area with newer washer and dryer, soft-close cabinetry and a movable island.

The spacious garage has been completely updated with epoxied floor, tinted windows along the outer wall, and a custom smoked glass garage door.

The partially fenced yard is large for the borough, at .27 acres, allowing plenty of room for expansion. There are multiple patios, a retractable awning and mature trees.

And this location is perfectly situated for easy, quick access by walking on by bike to what makes this borough such a desirable, sought-after place to live.

The home is very close to all Camp Hill schools, Fiala Field, Willow Park, local restaurants, the library, Cornerstone Coffeehouse and many other shopping and dining choices.

Located at 2166 Yale Avenue in Camp Hill, the home is listed at $330,000, with sale pending, by agent Nick Bartone, with Joy Daniels Real Estate Group.

Want more Cool Spaces? See all of our stories showcasing the neatest homes in central Pennsylvania by clicking here. Know of any Cool Spaces? Submit ideas to dgleiter@pennlive.com.
FILE - The SS United States is towed down the Delaware River between Pennsylvania and New Jersey, from Philadelphia, Wednesday, Feb. 19, 2025. (AP Photo/Matt Rourke, File) AP

By DAVID FISCHER, The Associated Press

A historic ocean liner will become the worlds largest artificial reef after its sunk off Floridas Gulf Coast early next year.

Okaloosa County officials announced Tuesday that they expect to sink the SS United States in early 2026, about 22 nautical miles (41 kilometers) southwest of Destin and 32 nautical miles (59 kilometers) southeast of Pensacola.

The nearly 1,000-foot (305-meter) vessel, which shattered the trans-Atlantic speed record on its maiden voyage in 1952, has spent most of this year at the Port of Mobile in Alabama, being scoured to remove chemicals, wiring, plastic and glass.

Regional Partnership

The ships final location was selected as part of an agreement with Pensacola tourism officials, who are contributing $1.5 million to the project, and Coastal Conservation Association Florida, which is kicking in another $500,000. Officials had been considering two other locations, including one that would have placed the ship further east and closer to Panama City Beach.

This collaboration will foster amazing adventures for generations of visitors and create a tourism economy that will benefit the state and the entire Northwest Florida region, Okaloosa County Board Chairman Paul Mixon said in a statement.

The contributions will be used to transform the SS United States into an artificial reef and finance a multiyear marketing campaign. The deal is part of Okaloosa Countys $10.1 million plan to purchase, move, clean and sink the ship, which includes $1 million toward an onshore museum to promote the ships history.

Once in place, the SS United States will sit at a depth of about 180 feet (55 meters), but the vessel is so tall that the top decks will be about 60 feet (18 meters) from the surface, making it attractive to both novice and experienced divers. The artificial reef will also be about 12 nautical miles (22 kilometers) away from the USS Oriskany, another popular dive destination that was sunk in 2006.

The SS United States is set to join Okaloosa Countys more than 500 artificial reefs, which include a dozen smaller ship wrecks.

The transformation of the SS United States into the worlds largest artificial reef creates a rare opportunity to elevate our entire region on the global stage, said Darien Schaefer, president and CEO of Visit Pensacola.

The new artificial reef will provide essential marine life habitat, which prompted Coastal Conservation Association Florida to make its largest donation in the organizations 40-year history.

It is truly a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to contribute to the creation of the worlds largest artificial reef, CCA Florida Executive Director Brian Gorski said in a statement.

Long Journey

The SS United States arrived in Alabama at the beginning of March following a 12-day tow from Philadelphias Delaware River, where it has spent nearly three decades. Okaloosa County took ownership after a years-old rent dispute was resolved last October between the conservancy that oversees the ship and its landlord.

FILE - The SS United States travels along the Hudson River as it begins its first voyage to Europe from New York, July 3, 1952, with the view of the Midtown Manhattan skyline including the Empire State Building at center right. (AP Photo/Jack Harris, File) AP

Various groups have attempted to restore the SS United States over the years, but all plans were eventually abandoned because of the steep cost. Recently, increased media attention has generated more calls to preserve the ship, and a group called the New York Coalition sued in Pensacola federal court, asking a judge to halt the sinking of such a historically significant vessel.

But Okaloosa County officials have said that preventing the SS United States from becoming a reef would only send it to the scrapyard.

The vessel, which is more than 100 feet (30 meters) longer than the RMS Titanic, was once considered a beacon of American engineering, doubling as a military vessel that could carry thousands of troops. On its maiden voyage, the ship reached an average speed of 36 knots, or just over 41 mph (66 kph), The Associated Press reported from aboard.

The ship crossed the Atlantic Ocean in three days, 10 hours and 40 minutes, besting the RMS Queen Marys time by 10 hours. To this day, the SS United States holds the trans-Atlantic speed record for an ocean liner.
By GARY D. ROBERTSON and TIM SULLIVAN, The Associated Press

RALEIGH, N.C. (AP)  Federal agents expanded their North Carolina immigration crackdown to the area around the state capital of Raleigh on Tuesday, with fear spreading in at least one immigrant-heavy suburb where restaurants closed and many people stayed home.

The North Carolina operation began over the weekend in the states largest city, Charlotte, where officials said more than 130 people have been arrested.

Speaking at a Raleigh City Council meeting, Mayor Janet Cowell said there had been confirmed sightings of Border Patrol officers operating in Wake County, which includes Raleigh, and nearby Durham County, which includes the city of Durham. She said earlier that she did not know how large the operation would be or how long agents would be present.

She encouraged residents to call the police department if they felt unsafe and urged protesters to remain peaceful.

And just be particularly kind to your neighbors today, she added.

Federal officials have said the crackdowns will reduce crime, though leaders in both Charlotte and Raleigh said crime was down. The officials have also criticized so-called sanctuary policies that limit cooperation between local authorities and immigration agents in a handful of jurisdictions.

Anxiety spreads swiftly in Raleigh suburb

Federal officials have given no information about activity in the Raleigh area.

But in Cary, a sprawling Raleigh suburb where officials say almost 20% of the population was born outside the U.S. and the large Asian population tripled in the 1990s, fear spread quickly.

Protesters hold signs amid the arrival of federal law enforcement, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley) AP

An area resident recorded a large black SUV with darkly tinted windows and Texas license plates driving through Carys downtown, eventually linking up with another SUV. The vehicles stopped at a construction site, where Pamela Hoile recorded Border Patrol agents detaining four workers. Speaking by phone after posting the video on Facebook, she described herself as a very outraged, horrified and concerned citizen.

The Chatham Square shopping center, which is usually bustling at midday with workers eating at mom-and-pop ethnic restaurants, was quiet. Most of the restaurants  Mexican, Indian and Chinese among them  were closed. Nearby, the often-full parking lot at an Indian grocery store was largely empty, and traffic inside was nonexistent.

Esmeralda Angels family closed their restaurant, the Esmeralda Grill, to avoid any confrontations between customers and federal agents. At their separate grocery store, they were delivering items to customers who were avoiding going out in public.

The family businesses had scaled back to help their community, she said, but knew it would hurt financially.

Taco Tuesday is the busy day for all of these restaurants, Angel said of the weekly specials. But I think everyone would rather close than operate.

Congresswoman calls deployment profound abuse of power

U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, a Democrat who represents Durham, part of Raleigh and some suburbs, said Tuesday that the deployment of federal immigration agents in North Carolina is a profound abuse of power, a violation of civil rights and a stain on our democracy.

The regions South Asian community has grown dramatically in recent decades, including many people drawn to the Research Triangle region by high-tech jobs.

Satish Garimella is mayor pro tempore in Morrisville, about 15 miles (24 kilometers) west of downtown Raleigh. Close to half of the towns 30,000 people are Asian.

Garimella, who grew up in India but is now a U.S. citizen, said the expected arrival of immigration agents is creating a lot of panic, and he recommended residents carry identity documents.

Protesters hold signs amid the arrival of federal law enforcement, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley) AP

You just dont know when you will be questioned and what things are needed, Garimella said.

The Trump administration turned to North Carolina after immigration crackdowns in Los Angeles and Chicago, both deep blue cities in deep blue states run by nationally prominent officials who are often loudly critical of President Donald Trump. They also increased operations in Portland, Oregon, where more than 560 immigration arrests were made in October, according to U.S. Border Patrol Chief Michael Banks.

North Carolina was a more surprising target.

The mayors of Charlotte and Raleigh are both Democrats, as is the governor, but none are known for wading into national political battles. In a state where divided government has become the norm, Gov. Josh Stein in particular has tried to get along with the GOP-controlled state legislature. The states two U.S. senators are both Republican, and Trump won the state in the last three presidential elections.

State was drawn into national debates

A handful of cities and counties in North Carolina have been drawn into Americas debates over crime and immigration, two of the most important issues to the White House.

The most prominent was the fatal stabbing this summer of Ukrainian refugee Iryna Zarutska on a Charlotte light-rail train, an attack captured on video. The suspect was from the U.S., but the Trump administration repeatedly highlighted that he had been arrested more than a dozen times.

While the Department of Homeland Security has said it is focusing on the state because of sanctuary policies, most North Carolina county jails have long honored detainers, or requests from federal officials to hold an arrested immigrant for a limited time so agents can take custody of them.

Some common noncooperation policies have existed in few places, including Raleigh and Charlotte, where the police do not help with immigration enforcement.

In Mecklenburg County, the jail did not honor detainer requests for several years, until after state law effectively made it mandatory starting last year. Wake County, where Raleigh is located, had a similar policy.

A protester reacts amid the arrival of federal law enforcement, Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, in Charlotte, N.C. (AP Photo/Matt Kelley) AP

DHS said about 1,400 detainers across North Carolina had not been honored since October 2020, putting the public at risk.

Matt Mercer, a spokesperson for the North Carolina Republican Party, said in a text message that the arrival of immigration agents to Raleigh would show that failures by radical Democrats will finally be taken seriously.

Sullivan reported from Minneapolis. Associated Press Writer Travis Loller in Nashville, Tennessee, contributed to this report.
The monument in Mount Carmel Cemetery in Williamsport contains the names of Catholic babies who died at birth or were stillborn. They were buried in unconsecrated land because they were not baptized. White concrete slabs seen among the leaves are sites where cast-iron crosses used to mark grave sites were found. Submitted with permission

WILLIAMSPORT  A request by an elderly grandfather to check on the family plot in a Williamsport cemetery has resulted in locating where 92 unbaptized Catholic babies were buried in unconsecrated ground.

The bottom line is people now have a place to go to visit loved ones, said Michael DiRocco, who spent three years researching and raising money for a monument.

His journey, as he puts it, began in 2020 when his cancer-stricken grandfather Kenneth DiRocco asked him to check on the family plot in Mount Carmel Cemetery because he had been given only two months to live.

The elder DiRocco, who despite the diagnosis is still alive today, told his grandson he had a brother whose name he did not know buried in unconsecrated ground in that 14-acre cemetery owned by the St. John the Worker Parish in Williamsport.

In February 2023, DiRocco asked Caleb Hipple, assistant general manager of the adjacent Wildwood Cemetery that manages Mount Carmel Cemetery, for a list of all the DiRoccos.

Hipples search revealed his grandfathers brother, Tony, who died at birth on March 22, 1922.

The records, which covered the period 1917 to 1970, showed that those buried on the unconsecrated site either were stillborn or had not been baptized, Hipple said.

There could have been prior burials, but those records had been destroyed, he said. Cast iron crosses had marked the burial sites, but they had sunk into the ground or been destroyed, Hipple said.

From a Facebook post stating he was looking for cast-iron crosses in Mount Carmel Cemetery, DiRocco said he learned a woman who walks in that area had found several in the brush and stuck them in the ground.

One of the crosses, which had been broken in two, contained the name Domenico Tofani. DiRocco welded it together and put a picture of it on Facebook, but he said he did not get a response.

With permission, several of his friends with metal detectors began scouring the area on a small hillside across near where the crosses were found.

They recovered 21 badly deteriorated crosses, some as much as a foot underground, and none with names, DiRocco said.

He took pictures of the cemeterys record book that contained the infants and parents names along with the cause and date of death.

It took a year to decipher some of the names because they were handwritten, and another two weeks on Ancestry trying to track down family members, he said.

Once he had a list of names, he posted it on Facebook with the notation, You may have some relatives you dont know about.

He was a little nervous posting them on Facebook, he said, but I got hundreds of comments. One was from a woman whose twin brother died during birth. None of those who responded knew where their relatives were buried, he said.

Through calling people whose names he found in obituaries, he said he learned there were cases families had chosen to identify the buried infant as baby boy or baby girl.

DiRocco, a member of the workforce development staff at the Pennsylvania College of Technology, did not consider his work complete until there was a monument with all the names.

He contacted Carl W. Crouse, funeral director at Crouse Funeral Home in Williamsport, while Hipple put on the cemeterys webpage the need for donations. The goal was $23,000, with $19,000 obtained fairly quickly, he said.

DiRocco repeatedly posted the names of the babies on Facebook to ensure the spellings were correct. There is room for more names on the stone that Crouse said he got from a Vermont company.

In the summer of 2023, while fundraising was in progress, DiRocco approached the Rev. David Bechtel, St. John the Worker pastor, about holding a memorial mass for the babies.

He agreed, and that November, a Mass was held during which all the names were read aloud. Bechtel then went to the cemetery and blessed the ground.

Also in 2023, DiRocco took his grandfather, who was nearly 94, to his brothers burial site. It was the first he had ever been able to visit his brother, he said. It was a very emotional moment.

Michael DiRocco stands next to the uncompleted monument he had erected in a Williamsport cemetery to memorialize Catholic babies who were stillborn or died at the birth and were buried in unconsecrated land because they were not baptized. Submitted with permission

The Mass in the church and the prayer service in the cemetery occurred again in 2024, and this Nov. 8, when the monument was blessed.

On the capstone under a statue of Jesus flanked by a child is: Loved and Remembered. Safe in the Hands of Jesus. Diane Steppe of Williamsport offered the wording when he asked for suggestions, DiRocco said.

Now we have a monument for children who otherwise would have been forgotten, Bechtel said. Im grateful he did it. Thanks to him, it came about.

The three years of research to identify the babies who were almost lost in time were extremely rewarding, DiRocco said. I talked with so many people, thats what made it rewarding.

None of the Catholic babies was baptized back then, so they could not be buried in a regular cemetery, he said he learned. That is no longer the case with the church, Crouse said.

Besides the monument, there are 21 foot-square concrete slabs DiRocco had made containing the name baby that are on the site where the 21 crosses were found.

The monument has 94 names because two individuals contacted him who did not know the whereabouts of their stillborn siblings but expressed a desire for a marker, he said.

DiRocco is not looking for accolades because its totally from the community, he said. The money came from the community, and the families are local, he pointed out.

But Crouse noted the monument would not be there were it not for all the work DiRocco did.
Photo: https://t.me/GeneralStaffZSU/31573

Ukrainian Defense Minister Denys Shmyhal held a meeting with U.S. Secretary of the Land Forces Daniel Driscoll in Kyiv.

"Ukrainian products in the field of unmanned systems, communications and situational awareness systems are among the best in the world and prove their effectiveness in combat. Ukraine is ready to work with allies to develop joint security solutions. And the role of the United States here is extremely important. I presented our partners with our developments in the field of defense innovations. In particular, regarding the production of FPV, interceptors and deep strike," Shmyhal said in the Telegram channel following the meeting.

The parties focused on the next steps to implement the historic defense agreements reached by President Zelenskyy and President Trump. They will raise our cooperation to a qualitatively new level and strengthen the defense capabilities of both countries.

"Ukraine is grateful to the United States for approving the sale of a support package for the PATRIOT air defense system for an estimated $105 million. This is critically needed assistance that will allow us to more effectively repel Russian strikes," Shmyhal said.

Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of Ukraine Oleksandr Syrsky also held a meeting with Driscoll, during which he informed his U.S. colleagues about the current situation on the battlefield.

"I emphasized that the enemy is increasing the grouping of its troops, continuing the offensive operation and increasing its intensity, launching missile strikes on residential areas, which is causing numerous casualties among the civilian population. We discussed strengthening Ukraine's capabilities in the areas of air defense, 'Deep Strike,' unmanned systems, training of personnel of the Defense Forces of Ukraine, etc," Syrsky said on the Telegram channel.

He said strengthening the defense of Ukrainian skies, increasing our long-range strikes on enemy military facilities, maintaining and stabilizing the front line should undermine the enemy's offensive capabilities and, ultimately, force him to a just peace. In particular, the defeats within the framework of "Deep Strike" have already demonstrated their effectiveness in disrupting Russian logistics and have a positive result in neutralizing the Russian military potential. Operations against oil refineries are designed to reduce the war to prospects that are disappointing for Moscow, thereby making it disadvantageous for the enemy.

"Another important direction is our cooperation in the field of technology. I am convinced that Ukraine's unique combat experience and rapid innovation cycles will contribute to the scaling of mutually beneficial Ukrainian-US cooperation in the defense sector," Syrsky said.
A man was banned from Pa. casinos after he left a child alone in a vehicle in a parking lot at Valley Forge Casino Resort to gamble. (Photo provided)

Besides levying thousands in fines and revoking one video gaming operators license, the Pennsylvania Gaming Control Board has banned three people for leaving children alone while they gambled at casinos.

A total of 10 people were banned by the board from casinos, video gaming terminal (VGT) sites or online betting for various reasons, the board said in a news release Wednesday.

Three people were banned from casinos after leaving children by themselves, including:

A woman who left a 7-year-old in a hotel room at Live! Casino and Hotel Philadelphia for nearly four hours to gamble at table games.

A man who left two children, 6 and 8, in a vehicle in the parking lot of the Philadelphia casino for 75 minutes while gambling at table games.

A man who left a 6-year-old in a vehicle in the parking lot at Valley Forge Casino Resort for 19 minutes to play slots.

The board reiterated that customers are prohibited from leaving children unattended in parking lots, garages, hotels and other venues at casinos since it creates a potentially unsafe and dangerous environment for the children.

There are now 1,458 people on the boards involuntary exclusion lists.

The board also levied $89,500 in fines on a VGT operator with two sites and revoked the license of another operator.

Raceway Management Company Inc., which operates convenience stories in Gibson, Susquehanna County, and Lake Ariel in Wayne County, was fined $63,500 for its Gibson site and $26,000 for the Lake Ariel location.

The fines were for failing to have board-certified employees present on numerous occasions when VGTs were operating for the public.

Mann & Sidhu, Inc., which operated VGTs at Bald Eagle Truck Stop in Clinton County, had its establishment and individual principle licenses revoked for several violations, including failing to have board-certified employees on duty for VGT playing, allowing a minor to be in a VGT area and place bets, and failing to maintain its status as a qualified truck stop by not selling an average of 50,000 gallons of diesel or biodiesel per month over a year.
Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., speaks during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act, on Tuesday shortly before the House overwhelmingly voted to pass it. (AP Photo/Julia Demaree Nikhinson) AP

Editors note: This article has been updated to include comments from Rep. Dan Meuser provided after initial publication.

All of Pennsylvanias U.S. House members voted to release the Jeffrey Epstein files in the nearly unanimous bipartisan outcome on Tuesday.

Longer than most anyone else, Ive continually called for transparency in this dark chapter of our history, said Republican Rep. Scott Perry of the 10th Congressional District in a statement to PennLive.

While I maintain concerns about the lack of victim protections in this bill, for the sake of our citizens trust in due process I voted yes to underscore my demand that we know all of the sordid details about Jeffrey Epsteins actions, said Perry. I hope that the Senate makes appropriate improvements to ensure victim protections.

In a statement to PennLive on Wednesday, Meuser accused Democrats of creating a political spectacle and failing to release the files under the Biden administration.

Why? The only reason would be to prolong this spectacle and engage in a weak attempt to weaponize it for political gain against President Trump, said Meuser. It is despicable to engage in political opportunism on such a serious issue, particularly one involving sex trafficking.

Meuser added that he and Trump have said all credible and legal information related to Jeffrey Epstein should be released, and that is exactly what we have done and what we will continue to do.

Other regional Republicans were quiet on their vote.

Reps. Lloyd Smucker (11th Congressional District) and John Joyce (13th Congressional District) did not post statements on X or their websites, although Joyce did post on X after the vote about a hearing on AI chatbots.

Bucks County Republican Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick of the 1st Congressional District released a statement saying that he will always vote for transparency in the Epstein case.

Full transparency and disclosure of the Epstein files is critically important to allow the victims and their family members to heal and is critically important to instruct law enforcement on future human trafficking and exploitation investigations, said Fitzpatrick, whose district is considered politically purple and attracts Democratic challengers every election cycle.

Pittsburgh area Democratic Rep. Summer Lee said on X that the vote puts every representative on record and brings us one step further to providing justice and transparency for the survivors and the American people. It is a testament to the power of the people who pressured their government to take action.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is visiting Turkey, where he held talks with Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

According to the Turkish news agency Anandolu, a welcoming ceremony between President Zelenskyy and President Erdogan took place near the presidential complex in Ankara.

The leaders posed for a commemorative photo against the backdrop of the two countries' national flags. Negotiations between the two heads of state then began.

The Turkish side was represented at the meeting by Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan, head of the National Intelligence Organization (MIT) Ibrahim Kaln, and the president's chief adviser on foreign policy and security, Akif Cagatay Klc.

The heads of state will hold a working dinner and then make statements at a joint press conference.

Zelenskyy earlier announced that he would meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan to discuss steps toward achieving peace.

According to Western media, US Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff will visit Turkey on November 19 and hold talks with the Ukrainian leader.

Umerov announced on November 11 that he would be working in Turkey and the Middle East during these days to unblock the exchange process. This visit took place after NABU detectives and SAPO prosecutors exposed large-scale corruption in the energy sector.
For all intents and purposes, the $30,000 Super High Roller event was done and dusted. Two contenders remained, but one had all the momentum and almost all of the chips; the other was out on their feet, staring defeat in the eyes.

Poker is made for these moments, though, and until the bell rings, its never over.

The WTC Sheraton played host to the final day of the latest instalment of the 2025 BSOP Super High Roller Series here in Sao Paulo, where 24 players returned to duke it out for the lion's share of the $1,320,000 prize pool.

Once the field had been whittled down to just two contenders vying for glory, Martin Kabrhel dug deep and found exactly what he needed, climbing off the canvas to fight back from a 14:1 chip deficit and reign supremeearning the trophy, $422,000, and a story for the ages

$30,000 Super High Roller Result

Place Player Country Prize (USD) 1 Martin Kabrhel Czechia $422,000 2 Ottomar Ladva Estonia $292,000 3 Rodrigo Seiji Brazil $186,000 4 Andre Akkari Brazil $142,800 5 Thiago Crema Brazil $111,860 6 Rafael Moraes Brazil $86,800

Martin Kabrhel

Tale of the Tape

With late registration open until the first hand of Day 2 was dealt, the final entrant count wasnt confirmed until the cards were in the air. By then, the 11 survivors from Day 1 had been joined by 13 fresh faces, filling out three full tables to start the day.

Of course, registering late often means starting with a short stack  and it showed. Eliminations came thick and fast, with Fabiano Kovalski getting the ball rolling as the bust-outs gathered momentum. Within the first half-hour of play, ten players had already hit the rail.

As the tournament approached the final table bubble, the pace slowed noticeably. A string of all-ins saw the short stack survive time and again, but eventually Renan Bruschi became the one left without a seat at the final table.

Daniel De Almeida and Kelvin Kerber were the first to fall once play resumed, setting up the tournaments money bubble. From that point forward, it quickly became the Martin Kabrhel and Ottomar Ladva show, with the duo responsible for every elimination from the bubble onward.

Kabrhel set his stall out early on the bubble, raising seemingly every hand. Often, his opens were enough to take the pot uncontested  but when Ladva pushed back, Kabrhel answered in kind, four-betting all in with king-five and forcing a reluctant fold from ace-queen.

Ivan Luca

After roughly two hours of tense bubble play, Ivan Luca was the one who ultimately drew the unwanted title of bubble boy. Remarkably, Luca has final-tabled all three Super High Roller events, including this one, and he got his chips in with the best of it  but couldnt hold against eventual champion Kabrhel.

No sooner had Luca exited the high-stakes area than Kabrhel claimed another scalp. This time it was Rafael Moraes heading for the rail, three-bet jamming into Kabrhel preflop  but on this occasion, the Czech star woke up with the goods. His pocket tens proved too strong for Moraes ace-seven suited.

With momentum fully on his side, Kabrhel continued to run over the table and soon dispatched Thiago Crema as well. The pair got the chips in preflop for a classic flip, and  almost inevitably  it was Kabrhel who came out on top.

What followed was a complete turning of the tide. Ladva first ousted Andre Akkari in fourth place before quickly dispatching Rodrigo Seiji in third, giving him a small chip lead heading into heads-up play.

Ladva and Kabrhel then clashed in a pot that, for all money, looked set to decide the fate of the trophy. In a limped pot, Ladva made trips and extracted maximum value from Kabrhels flush draw, leaving Kabrhel with just six big blinds  a staggering 14:1 chip deficit.

Ottomar Ladva

In a seismic shift in fortunes, Kabrhel doubled up, then got a shove through, then doubled once more. Suddenly, the stacks were level  but the momentum was all his.

With the wind in his sails, Kabrhel kept pressing, and Ladva couldnt stem the flow.

Hand after hand slid toward the Czech player until Ladva made his final stand, calling off with queen-seven preflop. Unable to catch up to Kabrhels pocket pair, that was all she wrote.

Kabrhel let out an echoing Vamos across the room before claiming his trophy.

And the winner's reaction?

Short and humble.

I was very lucky, was Kabrhel's take on the action.

That concludes the PokerNews coverage of this event, but keep an eye out for upcoming coverage of the remaining 2025 BSOP Super High Rollers Series events.
The Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association (UNLA) has announced the introduction of the institution of an Anti-Corruption Commissioner within its structure, declaring its intention to become a model of transparent regulation of the lobbying profession and calling on the National Agency on Corruption Prevention (NACP) for open dialogue regarding the monitoring of lobbyists activities.

Chairman of the Board of the Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association Oleksii Shevchuk stated that the Association is introducing the position of Anti-Corruption Commissioner in accordance with European transparency approaches and commitments undertaken after the inclusion of the UNLA in the European Parliament Transparency Register.

The Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association is presenting an Anti-Corruption Commissioner within its structure, fulfilling the EUs requirements and confirming that the lobbying profession in Ukraine must be transparent, understandable, and operate exclusively within the legal framework while paying taxes, said Shevchuk at a press conference at the Interfax-Ukraine agency on Wednesday.

According to him, the UNLA is the first public organization in Ukraine to formalize the institution of an Anti-Corruption Commissioner within the professional lobbying community.

No grey schemes, no grey money, no untaxed payments. We are showing an example of how modern lobbying should work  as transparent interaction between business and parliament, not corruption, emphasized the chairman of the board.

At the same time, Shevchuk criticized the NACPs approved procedure for monitoring lobbyists activities, adopted, according to him, without public consultations with the professional community. He considers such an approach an interference by a state body in an independent profession.

The National Agency on Corruption Prevention is, in fact, trying to establish control over the lobbying profession by adopting documents without discussions with the market. Just as the state does not interfere in the work of lawyers, private executors, or notaries, it must not usurp influence over lobbyists. Any reporting mechanisms should be discussed publicly with the professional community, he stressed.

The UNLA chairman emphasized that in the absence of open discussion, the Association will appeal to the parliament, the government, the Office of the President, and European institutions to report the risks of excessive interference by the NACP in the regulation of lobbying.

Director of the Law Institute of Vadym Hetman KNEU, Doctor of Law Liudmyla Kozhura, in turn, emphasized that systematic interaction between state regulators and lobbyist associations is an established practice in European democracies.

If Ukraine is moving toward the European community and adopts the best democratic standards, the state must build a regular dialogue with the Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association. In the EU, USA, and Canada, regulators systematically conduct consultations and discussions with lobbyist associations. This format of cooperation should also be introduced in Ukraine, and we are open to this interaction, Kozhura emphasized.

The UNLA appointed Associate Professor of Igor Sikorsky KPI, PhD in Public Administration, and anti-corruption expert Yana Tsymbalenko as Anti-Corruption Commissioner. She noted that any new tools related to the transparency of the lobbying profession in Ukraine must be introduced openly.

Lobbying is not corruption; lobbying is anti-corruption if it is conducted transparently and in the interest of society. The lobbying profession requires not only a high level of professionalism but also a clear understanding of ethical standards and the consequences of decisions made. Meanwhile, the NACPs decisions regarding the regulation of lobbying activities seem at least premature without broad professional discussion. As the authorized person on corruption prevention, I will ensure maximum transparency of the Associations activities and prevent any shadow practices, Tsymbalenko emphasized.

Executive Director of the Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association Vitaliya Hloba reported that the UNLA Board unanimously supported the introduction of the institution of Anti-Corruption Commissioner and the public appeal to the NACP.

The Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association is open to dialogue, cooperation, and professional participation in the preparation of regulatory acts concerning the lobbying profession. At the same time, we insist that no decisions regarding the professional activities of lobbyists can be made bypassing the professional association without expert discussion and transparent procedures, she added.

Vitaliya Hloba reminded that earlier the UNLA had sent an official notification to the NACP stating that the Association is the first professional organization in the field of lobbying and business interest protection in Ukraine, unites leading experts, and is ready to cooperate on regulatory decisions.

UNLA representatives also reported that the Association has already developed explanations on transparency rules in lobbyists work, a model contract with business, and is preparing educational programs in cooperation with leading universities and international partners. Offline meetings with representatives of lobbying communities from the United Kingdom, the USA, and EU countries are planned.

The Ukrainian National Lobbyists Association unites more than 40 professionals, which accounts for about 40% of all lobbyists registered in the transparency register. The organization calls for an open discussion of the NACP draft document with the participation of industry representatives, including from the fuel, agricultural, energy, and tobacco sectors.
Jenny Peterson is a business reporter at The Post and Courier, focusing on retail. An award-winning journalist, she covered statewide business news as special projects editor at SC Biz News. Originally from New Orleans, she previously worked as an editor at New Orleans CityBusiness and Biz New Orleans business publications.
Anna Sharpe covers Mount Pleasant, Isle of Palms, Sullivan's Island and Folly Beach for the Post and Courier. She graduated from Winthrop University. She previously wrote for the Moultrie News in Mount Pleasant.
Food & Dining Editor

Parker Milner is the Food Editor of The Post and Courier. He is a Boston College graduate and former professional hockey player who joined The Post and Courier after leading the Charleston City Paper's food section.
From Le Brassus to Dubai

Committed to opening the doors of watchmaking to a broader audience, Audemars Piguet brings its travelling exhibition, the House of Wonders, to Dubai Watch Week. Located in the prestigious Dubai Mall, Burj Park and spanning over 1,000 square meters, the exhibition stands as a gateway between Dubai and Le Brassus, inviting visitors to discover the Vallee de Jouxs natural landscapes and heritage. While it spotlights Audemars Piguets own story specifically, the exhibition also offers a compelling introduction to the art and evolution of watchmaking in Switzerland and beyond.

Guests enter through a reinterpretation of the companys historic headquarters, where its first workshops were established in 1875. Inside, a series of thematic chambers combine contemporary design with historical elements from Haute Horlogerie. Setting the stage for the companys story to unfold, the journey begins in the Clock Room, where the concept of time is introduced amid the rhythmic ticking of age-old clocks, before transporting visitors into the snowy landscapes of the Swiss Jura. Each chamber unveils a new chapter of the brands history, brought to life through archival documents, rare timepieces and contemporary creations.

As visitors move successively through the Gallery of Time, Mechanical Secrets, the Vault of Design and the Astronomical Observatory, they discover the intricate craftsmanship behind the Manufactures iconic movements and timepieces, trace the evolution of materials and designs, and witness the convergence of ancestral skills with cutting-edge innovation. The experience culminates in the Lab, offering a glimpse into the future of watchmaking and the pioneering spirit that continues to propel the brands vision. Finally, the Cabinet of Curiosities celebrates the Manufactures enduring spirit of collaboration, with each object of memorabilia on display telling the story of craftsmanship, creativity and cultural expression.
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Syndicated and guest columns represent the personal views of the writers, not necessarily those of the editorial staff. The editorial department operates entirely independently of the news department and is not involved in newsroom operations.
Political Editor

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Nick Reynolds covers politics for the Post and Courier. A native of Central New York, he spent three-and-a-half years covering politics in Wyoming before joining the paper in late 2021. His work has appeared in outlets like Newsweek, Poynter, the Associated Press, and the Washington Post. He lives in Columbia.
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A Historic Dual-Lot Event at Ineichen

On 13 December 2025, Ineichen Auctioneers in Zurich will host one of the most significant events in the world of independent haute horlogerie and contemporary mechanical art.

All White Rabbit wristwatches were sold out long before completion, with no retail availability.

Thus, Lot 6 offers the only White Rabbit wristwatch ever to appear at auction - a grand-complication masterpiece ranking among the twenty most complicated wristwatches in the entire history of horology.

This is the first and only opportunity worldwide to acquire the model through a public sale.

As Lot 5, Ineichen will offer the original painting A Mad Horological Party, created by Konstantin Chaykin specifically for the White Rabbit project.

Although offered separately, the two lots form a rare dual narrative where a grand-complication wristwatch and the artistic universe that inspired it appear side by side.
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Q2 2026 Results and South Africa Block renamed Block 1 CBKResults for the Three and Six Month Periods Ended 30 September 2025 and Offshore South Africa Block Renamed Block 1 CBK in Tribute to late Colin KinleyTORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 /Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas Ltd. (AIM:ECO)(TSXV:EOG)(Toronto, Canada) , the oil and gas exploration company focused on the offshore Atlantic Margins, is pleased to announce its unaudited results for the three and six month periods ended 30 September 2025.Highlights:FinancialThe Company had cash and cash equivalents of US$2.1 million and no debt as at 30 September 2025.The Company had total assets of US$18.9 million, total liabilities of US$1.4 million and total equity of US$17.6 million as at 30 September 2025.The Company is due to receive additional $11.5m from Block 3B/4B JV partners upon milestones in accordance with previously signed farm out agreements.South AfricaBlock 1 CBKOn 5 June 2024, Eco announced the acquisition of a 75% interest in Block 1 Offshore South Africa in the Orange Basin and received the Governmental Title Award and the Exploration Right and Operatorship, the final receipt of which was announced on 4 June 2025.Eco has acquired existing seismic data and an interpretation process in parallel to an active farm-out process is underway.In honour of the late Colin Brent Kinley, Eco Atlantic's Co-Founder and former Chief Operating Officer, who passed away on November 5, 2025, Azinam South Africa Limited ("Azinam SA"), the Operator of Exploration Right 12/3/362, in agreement with its Joint Venture Partner has renamed Block 1 Offshore South Africa to " Block 1 CBK " effective 17 November 2025.On 19 November 2025, the Petroleum Agency of South Africa granted the Assignment and Transfer of a 25% participating interest from the local JV partner Tosaco Energy (Pty) Ltd to OrangeBasin Energies (Pty) ltd., a B-BBEE-rated South African entity.Block 3B/4BThroughout 2025, Eco and its JV partners have continued to advance the license work programme and preparations for the drilling campaign in anticipation of drilling permit approval. The operator has stated that the current plan is to drill the first exploration well on Block 3B/4B as soon as Environmental Authorisation is confirmed and has identified Nayla, a prospect that lies in the north of the license area as the potential first drilling target.The Company is due to receive additional $11.5m from Block 3B/4B JV partners upon milestones in accordance with previously signed farm out agreements.NamibiaAs part of Eco's efforts to optimise its portfolio in Namibia, the Company received a one year license extension to its initial exploration phase, across all four of its PELs (Petroleum Exploration Licence) in Namibia and, pending government approval, farmed out its entire Working Interest, in PEL 98 (Block 2213 "Sharon Block") to an arms-length wholly Namibian-owned company, Lamda Energy (Pty) Ltd ("Lamda Energy").The Company continues to receive considerable interest in its licenses in Namibia and is currently assessing options to further progress its exploration work programmes amid a potential farm-out.GuyanaThe Company remains engaged in an active farmout process for the Orinduik Block.In light of ExxonMobil's Final Investment Decision (FID) for the development of the Hammerhead project in the Stabroek block, Eco is evaluating the Jethro-1 and Joe-1 heavy oil discoveries offshore Guyana to determine the appropriate appraisal approach.Post-period endOn 7 November, the Company announced the sudden passing of Mr. Colin Kinley, a board member and Chief Operating Officer of Eco Atlantic. Mr. Kinley had a distinguished career spanning more than 45 years in the mining and oil and gas frontier exploration industries. In addition to his co-founding role with Eco, and the wealth of knowledge and experience he has brought to the Company over the years, he has served as a valued director and senior executive of numerous public companies.Eco published an interview with its President and Chief Executive Officer, Gil Holzman discussing Eco's progress over 2025, its focus on advancing strategic acreage across Guyana, Namibia, and South Africa, and the near-term catalysts that the Company believes will deliver tangible results and value for shareholders.The interview can be viewed on the Company's website at: https://www.ecooilandgas.com/investors/results-presentation/ Gil Holzman, President and Chief Executive Officer of Eco Atlantic, commented:"During the period Eco has continued to advance our strategy of building value through focused portfolio management in key hydrocarbon frontiers. In South Africa, we have now completed the acquisition of a 75% interest and operatorship in Block 1 in the Orange Basin. This, alongside our existing interest in the highly prospective Block 3B/4B, further consolidates our presence in a world-class hydrocarbon province."In Namibia, our focus has been on portfolio optimisation, aimed at maximising the value of our assets and unlocking their potential for the benefit of our stakeholders. We secured one-year extensions across all four of our PELs and agreed a farm-out of PEL 98 to Lamda Energy, reinforcing the potential of our portfolio and deepening our support for local ownership and operational leadership in Namibia."We remain fully engaged in the farm-out process for the Orinduik Block in Guyana and continue to evaluate the heavy oil potential of the Jethro-1 and Joe-1 discoveries, both of which present exciting development opportunities."As our stakeholders will be aware, it was with great sadness that we recently announced the passing of Eco's co-founder and Chief Operating Officer, Colin Kinley. A bastion of the oil and gas sector and a close friend to all of us at Eco, Colin will be missed dearly. With Alice Carroll and myself assuming his responsibilities, we will endeavour to continue his legacy of operational excellence and diligence."As we move through the remainder of 2025 and into 2026, Eco is well-positioned with an international footprint across three of the best hydrocarbon jurisdictions in the world, and a clear path toward multiple near-term catalysts that we believe will create long-term value for our shareholders." The Company's unaudited financial statements for the three and six month periods ended 30 September 2025 is available for download on the Company's website at www.ecooilandgas.com and on Sedar at www.sedar.com
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Geophysical Survey Highlights Significant Porphyry TargetLONDON, UK / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 / Guardian Metal Resources plc (LON:GMET)(OTCQX:GMTLF), a strategic mineral exploration and development company, is pleased to announce the results of a three-dimensional induced polarisation ("IP" or "3DIP") geophysical survey completed as part of the Company's ongoing porphyry copper-molybdenum (Cu-Mo) focused exploration campaign at its Pilot Mountain tungsten project ("Pilot Mountain" or the "Project") located in Nevada, USA.Final inversion results from the survey have now been received. These have been integrated with previous IP and magnetic geophysical survey results as well as geological and geochemical findings from the Company's field exploration completed to date across the Porphyry South zone.TECHNICAL SUMMARYIP survey completed over the Porphyry South zone (Figure 1 & 2). The 2025 survey extended coverage >1 km south from the 2022 survey area following the identification of more extensive porphyry-style alteration and mineralisation than previously recognised.A strong chargeable anomaly forms a well-defined halo around the Porphyry South magnetic high feature. Strong chargeability zones often coincide with an abundance of sulphide mineralisation. This chargeable halo looks to strongly represent the porphyry system's "pyrite shell" (or quartz-sericite-pyrite halo). Pyrite shells typically represent the outer extents of mineralisation within a Cu-Mo porphyry deposit. In porphyry deposits the most enriched part of the system is typically immediately between the pyrite shell and the inner potassic core.Importantly, the inner margin of the modelled chargeable halo aligns with highest copper results obtained from the surface rock-chip sampling completed to date. This could be indicative of a copper enriched shell located between the inner high temperature potassic core and the pyrite shell. This feature has not been drill tested and constitutes a compelling future drilling target.The geophysical results have greatly improved the Company's confidence in the Porphyry South zone by revealing a clear zonation pattern that is characteristic of many significant global porphyry systems. Future drilling will prioritise testing the inner portions of the interpreted pyrite shell.The Company is also hosting third-party site visits focused specifically on the porphyry potential at Porphyry South and across the broader Project area.A comprehensive Pilot Mountain operational update is being prepared by the Company and will be released in due course.Oliver Friesen, CEO of Guardian Metal, commented:"Although our primary focus remains firmly on advancing Pilot Mountain's tungsten deposits at Desert Scheelite and Garnet, the latest work on Porphyry South continues to highlight the broader potential of the Project area. The new results point to a much larger and more coherent porphyry system than previously understood, with features that are increasingly consistent with a fertile mineralised porphyry centre."These findings reinforce our belief that Pilot Mountain may host meaningful upside beyond the extremely important tungsten development pathway that is progressing at pace, and we will continue to advance the porphyry opportunity in a measured and cost-effective way into 2026."BACKGROUNDThe Company drilled hole PM24-002a in 2024 to test the Porphyry South magnetic anomaly. PM24-002a intercepted 385.1 m of porphyry-style mineralisation and alteration from immediately beneath overburden at 22m to a downhole depth of 407.1m end of hole (EOH). The intercept included multiple intervals of potassic alteration and several intervals containing >300 ppm and up to 1,170 ppm molybdenum1,2. Given the success of the inaugural drillhole, the Company subsequently retained a porphyry-system specialist, Dr Lawrence Carter, to evaluate Porphyry South and to guide follow-up exploration activities.Field mapping at Porphyry South through 2024 and 2025 has delineated a sizeable zone of outcropping silicic and quartz-sericite-pyrite ("QSP") alteration, copper showings, stockwork quartz veins and gossanous breccias in metasediments intruded by a quartz monzonite. Through geochemical fingerprinting completed by the Company, the magmatic system was confirmed as "fertile" for porphyry Cu-Mo mineralisation3. Previously reported rock chip sampling from outcrop shows highly elevated copper and molybdenum concentrations across the majority of Porphyry South (Figure 1). 4 The circa 1 km long "Breccia Ridge Zone" which is defined by gossanous and cuprite-malachite-tenorite mineralised breccias within Porphyry South is also highlighted by 15 rock chip samples from along the ridge containing up to 2.05% copper (Figure 1).SURVEY FINDINGSBased on the above noted positive findings, the Company expanded the 2022 3DIP survey grid >1 km to the south to more wholly-map the subsurface resistivity (a proxy for silicification) and chargeability (a proxy for sulphide mineralisation) of Porphyry South to assist with future drill targeting. The 2025 IP grid consisted of 13 north-south oriented survey lines, spaced at 200 m, that varied in length from 1,200 m to 1,700 m. The data was integrated with the IP data acquired in 2022.The latest geophysical data shows an extensive chargeable anomaly (~1 km2 area >25 ms, at 200 m depth slice) in the southern part of Pilot Mountain, which is partly coincident and also appears below an extensive resistive zone (Figure 1 & 2). Both these resistive and chargeable zones form a "donut" shaped halo around the Porphyry South magnetic high, which PM24-02a found to represent a potassically altered quartz monzonite intrusion with porphyry-style, molybdenite mineralisation, and is interpreted to represent a lower-grade, high temperature core of the porphyry system.The Company interprets the resistive zone to represent silicic alteration of the metasediments since it coincides with outcropping areas of intense quartz stockwork veining. The extensive chargeable halo is interpreted to represent a "pyrite shell" to the porphyry system. Pyrite shells typically represent the outer extents of hypogene mineralisation in porphyry deposits. The inner part of the chargeable halo coincides with copper and molybdenum rich zones from previously reported rock chip sampling surveys.4Typically, in porphyry deposits the most copper enriched zones are found immediately between the pyrite shell and the potassic core (which sits within the pyrite shell).Significantly, these newly delineated chargeable and resistive geophysical features are consistent in nature to, but notably larger than, the Porphyry Central zone identified by t
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VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / November 19, 2025 /Relevant Gold Corp. (TSXV:RGC)(OTCQB:RGCCF) ("Relevant Gold" or the "Company") is pleased to provide an exploration update for its >35,000-acre South Pass Gold Camp in west-central Wyoming. The Company has initiated a combined airborne high-resolution Versatile Time Domain Electromagnetic (VTEM) and magnetics survey to acquire high-resolution data to aid in identifying secondary structures, conductive, and magnetic anomalies and refine drill targets across the South Pass gold camp. All VTEM data collection is expected to conclude at both South Pass and Bradley Peak in Q4 2025. The Company has also completed systematic geological mapping, rock chip sampling, and soil sampling campaigns in South Pass aimed at continuing to define exploration targets for 2026 drill planning. Assays for these are pending."These initiatives are designed to unlock the full potential of the high-grade and grossly underexplored South Pass gold district," said Relevant Gold CEO Rob Bergmann. "Results from our sampling and drilling programs to date have confirmed high-grade, gold-bearing structures surrounded by broad, shallow zones of lower-grade mineralization. We expect the upcoming surface sampling to highlight additional gold zones, and the planned geophysical work will help us see deeper into known structures and define new targets for our 2026 drilling program." South Pass Exploration UpdateGold mineralization at South Pass is strongly correlated with sulfide-bearing shear structures (arsenopyrite-pyrrhotite-pyrite) and quartz veins hosted within the Miners Delight Formation. The 2025 exploration program utilized a combination of airborne VTEM magnetics, geologic mapping, and geochemistry sampling programs to identify new gold zones and provide needed infilling along known mineralized structures.Airborne GeophysicsThe VTEM survey is a 2,807 line-km survey using 75 m line spacing, designed to cover the majority of the South Pass camp. This will provide high-resolution conductivity and magnetic datasets, helping to identify concealed structures and anomalies, significantly enhancing drill planning and target ranking.This survey is being flown by Geotech Ltd. in conjunction with the previously announced survey program at Bradley Peak (news release - September 5, 2025), which received $226,533 USD in matching grant funds from the Wyoming Energy Matching Funds (EMF) program (news release - July 2, 2025).Lewiston Geology Mapping and Rock Chip SamplingGeologic mapping, combined with rock chip sampling was undertaken in the southern Lewiston sub-project area to characterize areas with limited data and follow up on surface features intersected in 2024 drilling at Burr (news release -December 18, 2024). A total of 446 rock chip samples were collected and submitted to MSA Labs in Elko, Nevada for gold and pathfinder element analysis. Results will be reported when received.Windy Flats Soil SamplingA total of 1,400 soil samples were collected along 8 survey lines totaling ~32 line km to help identify anomalies that could reflect concealed mineralized shear structures. Samples were spaced at 25 m intervals on north-south oriented lines spaced every 300 m. Samples are being analyzed with a portable Niton XL5 X-Ray Fluorescence detector for pathfinder elements including: As, Cu and Zn.Next StepsAirborne VTEM survey flights are expected to be completed in Q4 2025. Initial results and interpretations are anticipated in Q1 2026.Geochemical sampling and mapping results and assays are expected in Q4 2025.Data analysis, interpretations and target analysis expected in Q1 2026.Lewiston Project HighlightsNov. 16, 2023: Relevant Gold Completes 1,560 Metres of Drilling at Lewiston and Provides Exploration UpdateFeb. 15, 2024: Relevant Gold Cuts Widespread Gold Mineralization at the Heavy Hand Target, 10 of 11 Drill Holes Hit in First-Ever Drill ProgramDec. 18, 2024: Relevant Gold Intersects Gold Mineralization in All Six Holes at BurrGolden Buffalo Project HighlightsNov. 7, 2022: Relevant Gold Announces 13 New Orogenic Shear Structures (15km total) Discovered through 2022 Exploration and Completion of 3500m Drilling ProgramFeb. 6, 2023: Relevant Gold Intersects 83.8 g/t Gold over 1 metre at Golden BuffaloFeb. 16, 2023: Relevant Gold Reports 4.1 g/t Gold in Trench Sampling at Golden BuffaloMar. 13, 2024: Relevant Gold Reveals 3.5 km2 Geochemical Soil Anomaly at Golden BuffaloShield-Carissa & Windy Flats HighlightsDec. 14, 2023: Relevant Gold Samples 18.9 g/t Au and 486 g/t Ag along 2.7 km of Mineralized Shear Zones at Shield-Carissa, WyomingQualified PersonThe scientific and technical contents of this release have been approved by Mr. Brian C. Lentz, CPG #11999, Chief Exploration Officer of the Company, who is a "Qualified Person" as defined by Canadian National Instrument 43-101 (Standards of Disclosure for Mineral Projects). Mr. Lentz is not independent of the Company.About Relevant Gold Corp.Relevant Gold Corp. is a North American gold exploration company founded by experienced exploration geologists and operated by a highly respected team with a proven record of significant value creation for shareholders. Relevant Gold is focused on the acquisition, exploration, discovery, and development of district-scale gold projects in the state of Wyoming - one of the most mining-friendly jurisdictions in the United States and globally.On behalf of Relevant Gold Corp.,Rob Bergmann, Chief Executive OfficerMore informationNeither the TSX Venture Exchange nor its Regulation Services Provider accepts responsibility for the adequacy or accuracy of this release.For further information about Relevant Gold Corp. or this news release, please visit our website at www.relevantgoldcorp.com or contact Rob Bergmann, President and CEO, or Kristopher Jensen, Manager of Investor Relations, at 763-760-4886 or by email at investorrelations@ relevantgoldcorp.com Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements and Historical InformationThis news release contains certain statements that constitute forward-looking information within the meaning of applicable securities laws. These statements relate to future events of Relevant Gold Corp. ("Relevant" or "Relevant Gold" or "the Company"). Any statements that express or involve discussions with respect to predictions, expectations, beliefs, plans, projections, objectives, assumptions or future events or performance (often, but not always, using words or phrases such as "seek", "anticipate", "plan", "continue", "estimate", "expect", "forecast", "m
The Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has fined Qatar Airways N5 million for violating consumer protection regulations and failing to respond adequately to official directives, two months after the authority issued a stern warning over the airlines handling of a Nigerian passenger detained in Doha.

The NCAAs Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Michael Achimugu announced the sanction on Wednesday on his X page.

I am glad to announce that, today, the NCAA has sanctioned @qatarairways to the tune of five million naira being penalty for consumer protection-related infractions, he wrote.

He added that unresolved cases involving the airline remain under review and may lead to further penalties if ignored.

In addition, the letters of investigation (LOI) written to the airline over other cases may lead to further sanctions if not treated satisfactorily, he said.

As always, the NCAA is committed to protecting the rights of all stakeholders, Mr Achimugu added.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported on 20 September that the NCAA had issued a stern warning to Qatar Airways over its handling of a Nigerian passenger and repeated failures to comply with Part 19 of the NCAA Regulations 2023.

The warning followed an incident in which a Nigerian passenger travelling with his wife through Doha was detained for more than 18 hours after a cabin crew member falsely accused him of inappropriate conduct during boarding in Lagos.

The passenger was reportedly compelled to pay fines and sign a document written entirely in Arabic before being released, yet the airline allegedly refused to fly him onward. He eventually purchased a new ticket at personal expense.

At the time, Mr Achimugu said the airline had repeatedly ignored invitations to meetings and official Letters of Investigation, warning:

This behaviour stops now. It is against the law for any airline not to respond to the NCAA or to treat Nigerian passengers with contempt.

The NCAA said the latest sanction follows Qatar Airways continued refusal to fully comply with regulatory instructions issued after the September determination.

However, Qatar Airways is not alone in facing regulatory action.

The NCAA has also cautioned Royal Air Maroc and Saudi Air over similar infractions, warning that further penalties could be imposed if they do not comply with outstanding directives.

Mr Achimugu reiterated that all airlines operating in Nigeria are bound by consumer protection laws and that the NCAA will continue to enforce compliance to safeguard passengers and maintain regulatory integrity.
Nigerian-American artist Uzo Njoku has responded to the backlash surrounding her forthcoming exhibition, An Owambe Exhibition, scheduled to take place in Ikoyi, Lagos State.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the event, set to run from November 23 to 24 January 2026, drew criticism from members of the Yoruba community, who accused the artist of attempting to undermine their cultural identity.

The critics alleged that Ms Njoku appropriated Yoruba cultural items, renamed them, and overlaid Igbo insignia on them.

They also petitioned the Lagos State Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, as well as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, urging them to halt the exhibition.

Responding to the concerns, Ms Njoku, in a statement posted on her X page on Tuesday, stressed that her debut homecoming exhibition aligns with the principles of lawful artistic expression.

She maintained that she had no intention of disrespecting or misappropriating the cultural values in question.

According to her, the exhibition will feature nine new paintings and explore themes ranging from intergenerational conflict and queer identity to female beauty standards, childhood ambiguity, and spiritual resilience.

She wrote: In light of recent communications and the subsequent public discourse regarding my exhibition titled An Owambe Exhibition, I wish to issue the following formal clarification. My professional practice remains aligned with principles of lawful expression and ethical creative conduct.

Accordingly, I reaffirm my recognition of the monarchys role in safeguarding Yoruba cultural heritage and acknowledge the concerns raised in connection with this matter. This statement is provided to address the issue conclusively and to ensure that the record reflects the absence of any intent to disrespect or misappropriate the cultural values at stake.

Rationale

Ms Njoku added that she felt compelled to offer the clarification in recognition of the concerns raised by the Oba of Lagos, Rilwan Akiolu, and other stakeholders across Yorubaland.

Sahara Reporters, in its 7 October publication, noted that Mr Akiolu described the exhibition as one that could provoke cultural unrest and misrepresent Yoruba traditions.

The paper further reported that Mr Akiolu urged the state Ministry of Tourism to review its policies on public cultural showcases to prevent similar incidents in future.

Acknowledging Mr Akiolus concerns, she said: The statement is provided in the interest of procedural transparency and in acknowledgement of the concerns expressed by His Royal Majesty, Riwan Babatunde Osuolale Aremu Aluolu, the Oba of Lagos and other stakeholders within the Yoruba cultural sphere. The term Owambe was utilised exclusively as a descriptive framework to denote an environment conducive to communal gathering and artistic engagement.

Its adoption was not intended, either explicitly or implicitly, to appropriate or infringe upon Yoruba cultural expressions, nor to contravene any customary or traditional sensitivities. To the extent that the title has been interpreted in a manner inconsistent with its intended artistic purpose, I extend my regret for any discomfort or perception of improperness arising from such interpretations.

Ms Njoku added that the clarification was issued in acknowledgement of the importance that relevant cultural authorities attach to the matter.

While the characterisation attached to the exhibition title diverges from my mental Creative rationale, this clarification is issued in recognition of the significance ascribed to the matter by relevant cultural authorities.
'America', by Maurizio Cattelan, while it was on display in 2016 at the Guggenheim in New York.

A Klimt once owned by cosmetics heir Leonard Lauder was bought for $236 million, setting records at Sothebys, while Cattelans America went for $12.1 million after a disappointing single bid

If the soul weighs 21 grams what is the value of art? Its one of those unanswerable questions that resurfaced this Tuesday at an auction house in New York.

It did so because Sothebys  which is inaugurating its new headquarters in the brutalist masterpiece by Marcel Breuer that once housed the Whitney Museum  offered its clients America, a toilet made of solid gold by Italian artist Maurizio Cattelan. It was expected to be one of the highlights of an evening in which a portrait of Elisabeth Lederer painted by Gustav Klimt between 1914 and 1916 sold for a record price of $236.4 million.

The painting, a true rarity, belonged to the spectacular collection of the recently deceased cosmetics heir Leonard Lauder, and has now gone down in history as the most expensive work of modern art ever sold at auction, a record previously held by Les Femmes dAlger (Version O) by Pablo Picasso ($179.4 million). It is also the second most expensive artwork ever sold, behind only Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci ($450 million).

The sale of the Klimt was the defining moment of the first of the two nights dedicated to auctioning the Lauder collection (which totaled $527.5 million), giving a boost to a sluggish market that, amid economic uncertainty, contracted 12% last year.

The starting price of the toilet  $10 million  was the same amount it would cost to purchase a toilet made from that much precious metal, based on todays market price. So perhaps the value of the art could be calculated by subtracting from the highest bid what anyone would have to pay simply to own such a large and costly quantity of raw material (102.8 kilograms of 18-karat gold).

In the end, the piece sold for a disappointing $12.10 million after a single bid. Thus, the symbolic value of Cattelans piece  in reality, the auction houses fees  could be said to amount to $2.1 million. Cattelan is a familiar figure in the aesthetics of provocation: among other feats, he managed to sell a banana duct-taped to a wall for $125,000 at Art Basel Miami. A version of that idea sold last year for more than $6 million, again at Sothebys.

The toilets valuation must also take into account the moment the gold market is going through: its price has risen 48% compared to last year, surpassing $4,000 an ounce in October. A surge once again driven by uncertainty in the U.S. economy.

The piece was commissioned by its previous owner when the price per ounce was around $1,200, meaning that even before knowing the final bid, the owner was already set to profit. As is often the case in this business  which thrives on art changing private hands as publicly as possible  the auction house sought to keep the sellers identity anonymous. Despite this, The New York Times revealed last week that it was investor Steve Cohen, owner of the Jets and a member of two exclusive clubs: the billionaires club and the mega-art collectors club.

Photograph courtesy of Sotheby's of the work Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer (1914-16) by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt. Sotheby's (EFE)

America is a series of three pieces, of which only two have been produced. The first was exhibited at the Guggenheim Museum in New York in 2016. Its title, and the fact that it was unveiled at the beginning of Donald Trumps first presidency  a man known for his taste for anything that shines  sparked enormous interest. The museum, located on the same avenue, Fifth Avenue, where Trump Tower stands in Manhattan, even offered the artwork to the president when he requested to borrow a Van Gogh for the White House.

Later, the sculpture was exhibited in London, where it was stolen. Authorities arrested two people, but the piece was never recovered, leading police to conclude that it had been melted down, so the gold could be sold. Evidently, those thieves did not believe in the symbolic value of art. The commission for the one auctioned on Tuesday came afterward.

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As Nigerias digital communication landscape continues to expand, public relations professionals are increasingly embracing authentic storytelling as a core strategy for shaping public perception and building long-term trust.

The shift marks a clear departure from traditional publicity tactics that relied heavily on press statements and controlled messaging.

For communications specialist Nene Bejide, who was recently honoured at the Nigeria Digital PR Summit, the rise of storytelling reflects a deeper understanding of how todays audiences consume information.

She says Nigerians, especially those in online communities, are drawn to clarity, sincerity, and human-centred narratives that feel genuine, not rehearsed.

Speaking with PREMIUM TIMES after receiving her recognition, Ms Bejide noted that many brands still underestimate the power of intentional communication.

According to her, storytelling must be deliberate, value-driven, and consistent across platforms if brands hope to build credibility in a crowded digital space.

Intentionality

She noted that this intentionality should extend beyond the content they post on social media, adding that it must also reflect in the overall lifestyle and culture of the organisation.

She said: Down from even the internal stakeholders, the employees, the policies of the company, the plans, how they put their strategy together, the vision, mission, core values of the company are actually part of the storytelling. In a way that when people see the brand in different representations on various platforms, they can easily recognise it. This is the brand because this is how they do things or how they operate.

So, I would say storytelling needs to start from within the values, core values, stories internally from even the perspective of how they want the company to be perceived. This is actually going to shape what kind of content will be created, how the platforms that this content will be placed on, and I mean also in the space, the conversations that theyre trying to drive in that space.

She added that the rise of multiple digital platforms has given organisations new ways to reach their audiences through different forms of connection.

According to Ms Bejide, the story being told must align with the companys core values, as this guides both content creation and the platforms on which it is placed.

Digital rise

Additionally, Ms Bejide noted that the growth of digital platforms has created opportunities for companies to tailor their content to suit consumers across all social media channels.

She maintained that before the advent of digital platforms, companies relied mainly on press releases, with only a few people reading newspapers or visiting specific websites or news blogs.

The company can also take that duplicate content and create it in a way that will be engaging to TikTok users. The company can also offer a more extended version that people can view on the YouTube platform. The company will also be present on news platforms, both online and offline.

This helps people understand the content when they see it from different perspectives and across the social media pages they use. It is not just in one world. I mean, it could provide insight. The TikTok video can show what happened and how they went about it. The Instagram video can be extracted from the original interview and distributed across various platforms. The YouTube version can be a long format that people can go back to and rewatch to gain insight and perspective on what happened, said Ms Bejide.

According to her, digital platforms have transformed the way narratives are shaped and how content is disseminated during times of crisis.

Local Data

While acknowledging the strides PR agencies in Nigeria are making, especially as they adopt AI tools and adapt to rapid digital changes, Ms Bejide argued that the sector needs to deepen its investment in local data.

She stressed that insights from Nigerian audiences, behaviours, and campaign outcomes are far more valuable to practitioners than relying solely on foreign benchmarks.

Having our own local data, and not relying on international data, is essential, storing it, putting it together, compiling statistics, and getting insights and analytics from campaigns on what works and what doesnt.

Just having that data archive that people can easily Google and find, and that is accredited to our industry leaders in the PR and marketing space, would be a good thing for us to have. Data is key to knowing whats working because everything is moving so fast.
The Founder of Christ Compassion to the Rural World (CCRW), Pastor Matthew Ashimolowo, has announced plans for a major crusade in Port Harcourt aimed at delivering free medical services to more than 70,000 people.

In September, the humanitarian and evangelistic movement announced the Port Harcourt crusade, noting it would be the most significant outreach crusade ever held in Rivers State.

The crusade is scheduled to take place at the Adokiye Amiesimaka Stadium in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, from November 24 to 29, 2025.

Meanwhile, this is not the first time the pastor has held similar crusades. In November 2024, the church held its six-day crusade in Ibadan, Oyo State, where it stated that it partnered with four hospitals to conduct surgeries for 711 individuals in Ibadan during the event.

Similarly, in November 2023, this newspaper reported that Mr Ashimolowo donated relief items to thousands, funded surgical operations, and provided food, clothing, books, and other essentials to residents of the Igbogbo area in Ikorodu, Lagos State, during the first edition of the crusade.

Port Harcourt crusade

Speaking at a press briefing, Mr Ashimolowo said the vision for CCRW grew out of years of ministering in remote African communities, especially in Ghana, where he visited repeatedly for eight years.

He stated that after months of prayer, Port Harcourt was chosen as the following location under the theme: Port Harcourt, This Is Selfless Love.

Mr Ashimolowo revealed that the Port Harcourt edition is the most expensive yet, with a cost almost four times that of the first outreach and twice the Ibadan budget.

According to him, the medical component alone will run for three weeks across major hospitals, including the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital, the University of Port Harcourt Teaching Hospital, and several PHCs.

The CCRW pastor stated that 1,130 surgical cases, including those for thyroid, fibroid, and cataract conditions, have already been screened, with 70,000 people expected to benefit from the medical services.

The clergyman further praised the Rivers State Government for what he called unprecedented cooperation, particularly in the deployment of hospitals and support staff.

Crusade relief

On relief support, Mr Ashimolowo listed the quantities to be distributed to the participants, which include 150,000 bags of rice, 150,000 bags of beans, and 150,000 packs of garri.

The relief packages also include 100,000 noodles, 20,000 packs of salt, sugar and oil, 20,000 bags of soap, 170,000 clothing items, including 10,000 Ankara wrappers, 25,000 buckets, and 1,000 mattresses for older people.

According to him, the distribution will be strictly organised with coupons collected on Monday, 24 November. The stadium will also be divided into sections based on gender and age groups to maintain order and ensure a safe and orderly environment.

Additionally, the CCRW senior pastor stated that 9,000 volunteers have been mobilised, and 150 buses are set to convey people from rural communities, such as Ogoniland, Ahoada, Igwuruta, and Oginigba. He added that the campgrounds have been secured for visitors travelling from remote areas.

Evangelism

However, beyond the humanitarian efforts, Mr Ashimolowo emphasised that the heart of CCRW remains evangelism. He noted that the goal is for 30,000 people to commit their lives to Christ, with nightly sessions featuring prayers, healing and miracles.

In his words at the press conference, the pastor stated that security has also been stepped up, with 300 police officers and soldiers deployed for the six-day programme.

Moreover, he revealed that a ministers conference will run alongside the crusade, featuring speakers from Nigeria, Ghana, Zimbabwe, and the United States, including Poju Oyemade, Jerry Eze, David Ibiyeomie, Tudor Bismark, Festus Adeyeye, Jonathan Shuttlesworth, and Steve Mensah.

Mr Ashimolowo said CCRWs long-term plan is to expand beyond Nigeria to other African countries, noting that the unity among Christian bodies, such as CAN, PFN, and various denominational groups, has made the outreach possible.

Logistics

CCRWs COO, Nasara Katugwu-Washpam, explained that her team has spent months securing deals, managing logistics and ensuring compliance with authorities.

Ms Katugwu-Washpam said that transporting over 2,500 bags of food items from the North required a whole security escort, while repackaging more than 500,000 nylon bags took three months.

She added that the crusade has boosted the local economy, from hotels to transportation and small businesses, and that six hotels are already booked for volunteers and international guests.

We prepare daily to cater to 60,00070,000 attendees. This isnt just an event, its a movement. The impact will outlive the programme because the work birthed here will endure, the COO added.
Actress Oluwabukola Awoyemi, popularly known as Bukola Arugba, has raised an alarm over Tuesdays attack on worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun, in Eruku, Ekiti Local Government Area of Kwara State, saying her relatives were abducted.

In a video posted on Instagram on Wednesday, the actress, who hails from Eruku, said the incident was far more severe than the account issued by the Kwara State First Lady, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, who described it as an attempted attack.

Oluwabukola, who is popular for her role in the Yoruba Nollywood movie Arugba, insisted the attack was successful, claiming that at least three people were killed and that three to four of her cousins are currently being held by the attackers.

Eruku attack

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported that terrorists stormed the church during a live-streamed programme, killing worshippers and abducting several others. Footage from the live broadcast showed congregants screaming and attempting to flee as gunmen invaded the building.

In her reaction, Oluwabukola said the First Ladys statement does not reflect the reality on the ground. Oluwabukola alleged that the First Lady was wrong for claiming the attack was an attempted effort of the terrorists, rather than a successful attack.

I read a press release on the Kwara state First Ladys page regarding the bandit attack in my home, Eruku, Ekiti LGA, Kwara state, which totally contradicts the sad truth. This video is to address and correct the report released on your page, Madam.

The information you got from the Kwara state police is false, madam. This involves my people directly. We all saw the video; they were streaming live while the church program was going on. It was a successful attack, not an attempted attack.

I was in so much pain when I saw the release that it was an attempted attack, that nobody died, and that people were in the hospital. A lot of people were abducted; three people are dead, she said.

Abducted relatives

The filmmaker claimed that while her family and Eruku town residents are still in the terrorists custody, the First Lady gave a different side of the church attack in her statement.

I have spoken to a lot of people from my town, my cousins, my uncles. Presently, three to four of my cousins are in the bandits den; they have been abducted. Evangelist Titi Balogun is right there; she is my mums younger sister. Ebenezer Aina is presently there; thats my cousins son.

So, it was a successful attack, and not an attempted one as the Kwara First Lady claimed. Something like that happened, and the direct opposite of what was being reported was the actual outcome. Everyone is crying in my town now because we dont even know if they will be found dead or alive.

Its so painful that we are seeing what we saw on your page; the reports on your page are false. It totally contradicts what actually happened, she argued.

She, however, urged the government to act swiftly in rescuing the abducted members of her community, stating that the actual number of the abducted is still unknown.

We dont even know the number of people abducted, and we and the whole of Nigeria need to be saved, she said.
Nigerias primary health care system has long faced challenges, from underfunded facilities and staff shortages to service delivery and immunisation coverage gaps.

In this exclusive interview, Muyi Aina, the executive director and chief executive officer of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), discusses how Nigeria is strengthening primary health centres and developing local vaccine production. He outlines efforts to improve facilities, expand the frontline health workforce, and ensure the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) reaches the communities that need it most.

PT: The NPHCDA has been leading efforts to revitalise primary health centres nationwide, but many communities still report non-functional facilities. What concrete steps is the agency taking to ensure that revitalisation goes beyond infrastructure to include staffing, equipment, and service delivery?

Aina: Thank you very much, you have raised an important point. There are over 30,000 public primary health centres across Nigeria. Over the past few years, the federal government has identified about 8,300 of them to receive direct operational funding through the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF).

These facilities were selected based on fairness, equitable distribution, functionality, and quality. So, by definition, historically, these are the best of the facilities. When we came on board two years ago, only about one-fifth of those facilities met the criteria for being fully functional. We looked within our environment to determine, what do we call a fully functional PHC? Of course, there is the World Health Organisations definition of a functional PHC and other global standards, but when you contextualise that for us, we made a call that there are several requirements for a PHC to be called fully functional.

One is a decent, dignified building suitable for patient care. Two, there should be a minimum complement of health workers, including at least four skilled birth attendants, and a residence on-site to provide 24-hour service. The third is to have a reliable backup power supply to support continuous operations. The fourth one is for the facility to have adequate equipment and number five is to have functional water and sanitation facilities, including separate toilets for men and women, and accessibility for persons with disabilities.

Youll agree this is a big leap from where many PHCs are. In the past couple of years, under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu, about 1,640 PHCs have been refurbished or upgraded, in partnership with states and the World Bank. Combined with those already in good shape, we now have around 3,500 relatively functional facilitiesstill far from the 30,000 total.

So yes, most facilities are still below standard, but were on a transformation journey. The PHC system had been neglected for a very long time, with no money invested in it and people were not being coordinated. This is the first time the government is working in a coordinated way to improve PHCs. So, we are moving as fast as we can to ensure we get PHCs to the most achievable standard.

Its also important to clarify that it is not the responsibility of the federal government or NPHCDA to revitalise PHCs. We develop it, but we dont own these facilities; they belong to the states and, in some cases, local governments. The delivery of services at that level is, structurally, by our health system, a responsibility of the subnational government. The federal government provides coordination, technical guidance, funding support, and oversight.

Because there are many gaps, we have intervened federally to complement state and local efforts. President Bola Tinubu has also signed a compact with states and development partners to jointly invest in improving PHC quality. States are now more involved, but we must accelerate the pace together.

PT: Nigeria faces an ongoing shortage of health workers at the primary care level, worsened by migration and poor working conditions. How is the NPHCDA addressing the retention and motivation of frontline health workers, especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas?

Aina: I agree with you that there is a need to focus on improving the health workforce. However, this is at multiple levels. This is to ensure we have enough health workers, the competence and skills to function effectively, and also to ensure they are retained in the facility.

Regarding having more health workers, we have created programmes and incentives for states and local governments to hire more staff.

The NPHCDA doesnt directly hire PHC workers anymore. That responsibility now lies with states, and were supporting them with resources to pay salaries. So far, about eight states have hired thousands of new skilled birth attendants to work in health facilities. These states are: Kaduna, Yobe, Borno, Ebonyi, Adamawa, Kwara, Ogun and Plateau. Others are in various stages of their recruitment process.

Weve also re-established a community-based health worker cadre. These workers provide basic services within communities, especially for people who cant reach PHCs, under strict supervision and standard protocols. Five or six states have already begun recruitment.

In addition, the federal government has doubled the training capacity of health institutions nationwide. President Tinubu, who also serves as the African Unions champion for community health workers, has mandated us to retrain 120,000 frontline health workers. As of last week, we had completed training for over 70,600, and the next batch is planned. Selection of these health workers is based on a few criteria: they must be employed in a government facility (not volunteers), prioritised for maternal and newborn care, and licensed professionals. We typically select three or four per facility that provides delivery services.

Were also digitising these trainings so that health workers can access them easily and affordably on their phones.

Were also improving motivation through better working conditions. In partnership with the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, 60,000 health workers have received new protective kits like scrubs, shoes, and uniforms. Many workers have expressed excitement about this support.

Were also promoting on-site accommodation for health workers in remote or insecure areas so they can stay safely after night shifts. Through the BHCPF, facilities can now pay performance-based incentives to retain staff, especially in rural areas.

These combined measures are helping morale and, over time, should improve retention.

PT: Despite progress in routine immunisation, coverage still varies widely between states. What innovative approaches is the agency implementing to close these gaps and reach zero-dose children, particularly in insecure or underserved regions?

Aina: According to the 20232024 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), the Penta 3 coverage, which is the standard metric that is used to assess routine immunisation in Nigeria, was put at 53 per cent. That means nearly half of Nigerian children havent received their third dose of the pentavalent vaccine. The performance varies by state; some states are as high as 80 per cent, while others are below 10 per cent.

Weve mapped areas with large numbers of zero-dose children and are conducting targeted interventions by enumerating, line-listing, and vaccinating these children one by one. In the first phase of our campaign, over 300,000 previously unvaccinated children were reached.

Were also implementing the Big Catch-up initiative, targeting children who missed basic immunisations. Our integrated measles, rubella, and polio campaign aims to reach over 106 million children nationwide, and we are on target to achieve that. So far, 21 states have been covered, and the rest will follow early next year.

All of these efforts are to cover existing gaps in vaccination coverage to reduce the number of outbreaks and deaths from vaccine-preventable diseases. In security-compromised areas, were working with security forces to ensure safe delivery of vaccines.

PT: Nigeria has discussed vaccine production for years, yet progress has been slow. What practical steps are currently underway to ensure that local manufacturing moves beyond talk to actual implementation?

Aina: Several years ago, Nigeria produced yellow fever and even rabies vaccines, but that was abandoned for quite a while. Vaccine production is highly technical as it involves live organisms and complex processes. There have been discussions on this before now, and maybe even efforts in that direction. However, what this government has done is accelerate that effort through the Presidential Value Chain Initiative in Health. Were partnering with global vaccine manufacturers to transfer technology and begin producing basic vaccines suited to Nigerias needs.

Part of the problem that has made it not sustainable in the past is that the process and the cost to establish vaccine manufacturing require a large market to buy from for it to be worth it. To make this sustainable, were collaborating with other African countries to build a continental market. Each country will specialise in certain vaccines to achieve economies of scale.

Building the facilities, transferring technology, and obtaining rigorous licensing takes time to ensure global-quality standards. Were proceeding carefully to protect public confidence in vaccines.

PT: Are you optimistic that Nigeria will eventually produce its own vaccines?

Aina: Im almost certain because we do not have a choice at this point. As the number of children is increasing, as our vaccine portfolio has expanded, the cost of buying and importing those vaccines is becoming more and more difficult for us to meet.

So, its economically and strategically necessary. Local production means we can pay in Naira and reduce dependence on foreign currency. Moreso, it also ensures supply security. During COVID-19, many countries prioritised their citizens first, leaving others waiting. We dont want to be in that situation again.

PT: Vaccine hesitancy remains an issue in Nigeria, and its now being fuelled by some assumptions that the COVID-19 vaccine causes infertility in Women. Whats your take on this?

Aina: That assumption is completely false. There is no scientific evidence linking the COVID-19 vaccine to infertility, none at all. Infertility affects both men and women for many well-established medical reasons, but vaccination isnt one of them. Unfortunately, we have a cadre of health workers who dont follow the science and the evidence. The prevalence, causes, and remedies of infertility are well known, and the COVID-19 vaccine has no link to this. The components of the vaccines are publicly available and have no connection to reproductive organs or hormones.

Its also important to remember that correlation isnt causation. Someone could take a vaccine and later fall ill or have an accident; that doesnt mean the vaccine caused it. Vaccines may have mild side effects like pain or fever, but they prevent severe diseases and save lives.

Many myths about vaccines persist, often spread by people who overlook scientific evidence. Weve seen tragedies where parents refused vaccines for measles or polio and their children suffered lifelong consequences.

Everyone has the right to choose, but such decisions should be based on credible evidence, not misinformation. Vaccines remain one of the most effective public health tools in history.

PT: The NPHCDA is a key gateway for the Basic Health Care Provision Fund. Can you share how much the agency has received and disbursed so far under the fund, and what proportion has directly reached primary health facilities?

Aina: The Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF) is the anchor fund for Primary Health Care services in Nigeria, and its disbursed through four gateways. The largest is the National Health Insurance gateway, which takes about half the funds. That portion provides financial protection for vulnerable groups, offering free maternal and child health services in many states, including free caesarean sections for pregnant women.

The second is the NPHCDA gateway, which focuses on ensuring the service readiness of health facilities. Through this channel, funds are sent directly to PHCs every quarter to help keep the lights on, maintain essential operations, procure basic supplies, and hire ad hoc staff where necessary.

Since we came on board in the last two years, weve disbursed N50.8 billion under the BHCPF. For Q1 and Q2 of 2025, N14.01 billion was disbursed through our gateway, and these funds have gone directly to the health facilities.

For Q3, you might have heard about the Ministers Red Letter and the N32.9 billion he mentioned for all four gateways. That allocation is currently being finalised. The slight delay is because the government made additional funds available, allowing us to expand the number of supported facilities and increase the amount each facility receives. We can add about 5,212 PHCs to the existing 8,300 based on our calculations.

PT: Several reports indicate that disbursement of BHCPF funds to states and facilities has often been delayed or inconsistent. What are the major challenges causing these delays, and what steps is the agency taking to ensure the timely and transparent release of funds?

Aina: I think its important to put this in context. We all want to see funds reach facilities efficiently, but we also have to ensure that public resources are properly accounted for and not wasted. In our environment, funds can easily be misused or spent on non-priority items if there arent the right checks and balances.

So, what we require is that each facility account for how the funds they previously received were used. We then review those reports on a facility-by-facility basis before making the next disbursement. That verification process can sometimes lead to delays.

READ ALSO: FG pledges to revitalise PHCs to drive universal health coverage

In this particular instance, as I mentioned earlier, were also implementing a few key changes. We recently launched new BHCPF guidelines that increase both the number of participating facilities and the amount allocated to each one. Were also working closely with states and local governments to determine how the additional facilities will be distributed. These adjustments take some time, but getting them right is important as we dont want to be careless with public funds.

To minimise delays going forward, were digitising more of our processes and leveraging technology to improve transparency and efficiency. Were currently rolling out the PHC Financial Management System across facilities to make disbursement faster and more accountable.

PT: Beyond the financial releases, what mechanisms does the NPHCDA have to track whether BHCPF funds are improving service delivery at the facility level  especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas?

Aina: We have several mechanisms to ensure funds are used effectively. First, we routinely review facility reports before disbursing additional funds. We also have Performance and Financial Management Officers in every local government, who check the books, provide technical assistance to states on fund application, and verify all submitted information.

In addition, we partner with the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), which conducts checks in selected areas with potential concerns, and reports back to us.

Very importantly, we are rolling out a Financial Management App that limits the amount of cash facilities can withdraw and encourages them to transfer funds electronically for all expenses. This allows us to track how money is spent in real time.

We believe that combining these approaches will significantly reduce the incidence of fraud and ensure that BHCPF funds are improving service delivery across all facilities, including those in rural and hard-to-reach areas.
Ive just received news of the death of Dan Agbese whose deputy I was when he was Editor of the defunct New Nigerian in the early eighties. His death at 81 is a huge loss to the countrys journalism and punditry.

As my tribute to my former boss and long-time friend, I reproduce below a slightly edited version of the tribute I paid to him when he clocked 70, eleven years ago, plus a telling reaction to the tribute from a reader.

May Dans gentle soul rest with the Good Lord. And may He also give all of us the fortitude to bear his loss. Amen



An illustrious wordsmith at 70

Yesterday, one of Nigerias most accomplished journalists and wordsmiths, Daniel Ochima Agbese, clocked 70. He was born on May 20, 1944 into Agila royalty in Okpowu Local Government of Benue State. It speaks volumes of the mans character that few of his acquaintances and the millions of readers he must have gathered in his long  but hardly materially rewarding  career as a columnist, journalist and author, ever knew he was a prince. All his life hed always referred to himself as simply Mister, apparently because he did not suffer from the superiority complex of your typical Nigerian Big Man.

Yet Dan, as those on a first name basis with him call him, had sufficient virtues to make him feel proud and superior to most Nigerians. To begin with, God gave him a good head and a way with words. This was obvious from his academic career which begun in earnest when he returned to the classroom in 1970 after a three-year teaching career followed by another year as a library assistant and ending with a four-year stint as a staff writer with the New Nigerian during its heydays in the late sixties. Before all this he had attended Government Teachers Training College, Keffi, between 1960 and 1962.

It was as a staff writer under the tutelage of Malam Adamu Ciroma, the first indigenous editor of the New Nigerian and the creator and principal author of the famous humour columnist, the anonymous Candido, that Dan Agbese left to pursue a degree in Journalism at the University of Lagos (UNILAG), the second university in the country after the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN), to establish a degree course in the profession.

At UNILAG, Dan Agbese became a prize-winning student and, upon graduation in 1973, earned himself a second-class upper division. That, in combination with a three-year stint as the chief sub-editor of the Nigeria Standard, then published by the then Benue-Plateau State, must have earned him a place in 1976/77 to do a Masters degree at probably the best Journalism school in the world and custodian of the most prestigious journalism awards world-wide (The Pulitzer)  the Graduate School of Journalism of Columbia University, New York City.

As with UNILAG so it was with Columbia; there he became the best of the 16 international students in the class and among the best of its entire 160 students.

Dan Agbeses fascination with and love of the written word probably dated back to his days as a library assistant at Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria  possibly before. His move from there to the New Nigerian seemed then natural enough; after all, the written word is the principal commodity of both.

Once he returned to class to read journalism it seemed he had made up his mind to stick with it as his life-time career and forget about being a librarian. However, as the man himself said in an interview with the defunct Verbatim newsmagazine (October 21, 2013), he developed second thoughts about remaining a journalist while still a student at Columbia.

Actually, as far back as 1977, when I was in graduate school in the US, he said, I didnt think I was returning to journalism, I thought I was going into book publishing. This was because I had had a long association with book publishing from the period of my youth service in 1973/1974. I was a reader for Heinemann educational books in Ibadan, and so I picked up a lot of interest in writing books. And I had hoped that if I returned, I would set up a book publishing company, but it didnt work out that way.

As things turned out, Dan stuck to Journalism. However, even though he did not become a book publisher, he wrote several of them. Indeed, he wrote enough to make him the most prolific author among Nigerian journalists since time.

So far the man has six books to his credit, three of them (The Reporters Companion, The Columnists Companion and Style: A Guide to Good Writing), practical guides to Journalism that should be compulsory reading in all our Journalism schools, one (Nigeria, Their Nigeria), a satirical dig at Nigerians and their country after the fashion of that famous evergreen, How to be a Nigerian, by Peter Enahoro whose editorship of a national newspaper at 26 in the early sixties remains unbeaten, and two (Fellow Nigerians: Turning Points in the Political History of Nigeria and IBRAHIM BABANGIDA: The Military, Politics and Power in Nigeria, to date, the most authoritative and most definitive biography of General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida.

Dan Agbese has also edited three books, Newswatch Conversation with Babangida, The Energy Crisis in Nigeria and In the Service of My Country: Selected Speeches of Abdullahi Adamu, the two-term civilian governor of Nasarawa State.

All books are a readers delight for their readability, insight, humour and precision.

Among Dan Agbeses virtues were not only his good head and a way with the written word. The man also possessed the courage of his convictions and a diligence for accuracy, balance and fairness in pursuing news stories. I saw these and other virtues first hand as his deputy when he edited New Nigerian between 1982 and 1984.

Before him I had acted as the editor for 11 eleven months. I was denied confirmation because the management and chieftains of the ruling National Party of Nigeria said I was too headstrong. Instead, Dan Agbese was brought in as editor at the time he was the Director of Information in Benue State, then also ruled by the NPN.

Clearly there was politics in his appointment but it was an appointment no one, certainly not I, could quarrel with; Dan Agbese was older and much more experienced as a journalist than me by the time he was appointed.

Four years after his appointment, if those in authority thought they had a lapdog for an editor it became obvious to them that they made a great misjudgement. Day in day out Dan Agbese published stories and ran editorials that they found uncomfortable. When he was not running such awkward stories, he was rejecting stories the authorities tried to foist on him that were clearly more public relations than news.

For example, when the late Chief M. K. O. Abiola resigned his membership of the NPN after his humiliation following his bid for its chairmanship against the favoured late Chief Adisa Akinloye, Dan Agbese ran it as the lead story, much to the great annoyance of the party. On another occasion he rejected a story based on a document allegedly signed by the late Chief Obafemi Awolowo which purported that he was training people in a forest in the Western Region for a coup against the Federal Government. While the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria in Kaduna made hay with the story, Dan Agbese demanded incontrovertible proof that the document was genuine before he would publish the story. He never got the proof and he never published it. In the end it turned out that the document was fake and its source, a big con artist.

Predictably, Dan Agbeses editorship of the New Nigerian did not end on a happy note. Sensing the authorities had had enough of his unyielding insistence on professionalism and might push him out anytime, he decided to jump. Thus, his departure in 1984 to co-found Newswatch which eventually hit the streets in January 1985 as Nigerias first weekly newsmagazine to be owned principally by professional journalists themselves.

The rest, as they say, is History. Newswatch ran without missing a beat for 27 years, except for its ban by the authorities a couple of times, once for a period of six months, due to its hard-hitting stories and scoops.

Since its controversial take-over last year by Chief Jimoh Ibrahim, the controversial business mogul, Dan Agbese and his colleagues have established a book publishing company, May5Media, which has since published two books, one, Moving in Circles, a selection of their columns, and the other on the life and times of the rebel leader, the late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu.

Shows you, doesnt it, that old journalists and old writers, like old soldiers, never die.

Heres many more returns of yesterday to one of Nigerias best writers, humourists, satirists and, above all, most professional and most courageous journalists.

Re: Dan Agbese at 70.

Sir,

I want to thank you for your beautiful piece on our Dan Agbese. Ill always remember him for his article on the late Chief Awolowo prior to his last birthday in 1987. In that article Dan Agbese eulogized the qualities and contributions of Chief Awolowo and wrote that he will be remembered as the best president Nigeria never had. The sage died a few weeks after the publication and the late Chief Odumegwu Ojukwu made the same statement thereafter. While Nigerians were crediting the statement to Chief Ojukwu, Dan Agbese was the author and originator of the statement.

Adefemi Aribatise, Lagos.

+2348028597775.

Mohammed Haruna is a National Commissioner at the Independent National Electoral Commission.
Nigerias Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, has rejected the persistent international claims that the federal government is complicit in, or has failed to prevent a genocide against Christians in the country.

Speaking on Piers Uncensored, a YouTube talk show hosted by Piers Morgan, on Tuesday night, Mr Tuggar insisted that violence in Nigeria affects both Christians and Muslims.

He recalled that even his father-in-law was killed in an attack by non-state actors.

Responding to Mr Morgans claim that at least 50,000 Christians have been murdered since 2009, the minister described the figures as completely false and totally inaccurate.

He noted that multiple media organisations have fact-checked and disproved them.

Mr Tuggar said that 52 churches have been attacked in the last two years, adding that mosques have also been destroyed.

He acknowledged that the nation-building project is not an easy one, adding that the country has suffered from effects of things that we have no control over.

Exogenous factors such as the breaking of the Libyan state, the killing of Gaddafi, the proliferation of weapons and fighters that have cascaded down to the northern fringes of Nigeria and beyond it, have affected the entire region. The failure of the EU Sahel strategy over the years.

Genocide claims

United States President Donald Trump had recently designated Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), based on claims that Christians were being systematically killed in the country.

He later threatened that unless the Nigerian government stopped what he called the genocide of Christians, the United States under his watch would take military action.

The Nigerian government has, however, repeatedly rejected Mr Trumps false allegations, insisting that terrorist attacks in the country target both Muslims and Christians and that there is no state policy or pattern of persecution against any religious group.

The ministers statement comes amidst heightened scrutiny and numerous reports from international human rights organisations, think tanks, and religious freedom advocates that have highlighted escalating violence in parts of Nigeria, particularly in the Middle Belt, often pitting predominantly Muslim herders against mostly Christian farmers.

While acknowledging the serious security challenges and the tragic loss of life, Mr Tuggar rejected the application of the term genocide, arguing that the conflicts are complex, driven by socio-economic factors, resource competition, and are not part of a coordinated state-sponsored effort aimed at the systemic extermination of a specific religious group.

Attacks

The minister emphasised that the US president was misinformed by those who trade in generalised labellings, and unfortunately, it has resulted in this statement.

Mr Tuggar said that Nigerians have lived together in peace for a long time, adding that it is important to be mindful of the complexity of the Nigerian state.

He noted that framing the conflict solely as a religious crisis misrepresents the nuanced reality on the ground and risks exacerbating inter-communal tensions.

He said that the administration remains committed to protecting all Nigerians, regardless of their religious or ethnic background, and is actively working to address the root causes of insecurity nationwide.

We dont know the exact number of Christians killed by Boko Haram, but it is a concern for Nigerians, the foreign minister said.

Mr Tuggar said that Boko Haram affects not just Nigeria but three other countries, including Chad, Niger and Cameroon.

He said that about 50,000 have surrendered and have been rehabilitated and processed through the legal system.

He noted that Nigeria has over 200 million people from a multi-cultural background, insisting that when counting the death toll, victims of attacks are not identified by their religious inclination.

What we are concerned about is that they are Nigerian first and foremost, Mr Tuggar said.

Meanwhile, the former Canadian Goldie Ghamari participated in the broadcast programme.

Ms Ghamari referenced the 2014 kidnapping of the Chibok girls by Islamist militants, suggesting it was part of a recurring strategy observed in other nations.

She also accused the Nigerian government of being complicit.

She noted that the Nigerian president and vice president are muslims, claiming there is no Christian representation in the government.

However, the foreign affairs minister countered her stance, stating that the politician lacked knowledge about Nigerias complexity.

She has already exposed her ignorance and lack of knowledge about Nigeria, and it is easy for her to sit 1000 miles away and play games with peoples lives, Mr Tuggar said.
Prosper Peter, a fisherman, lost his pregnant wife in 2019 in Makoko, a floating community on the Lagos lagoon. Six years later, her memories and death still haunted him.

My wife was in labour and we were going to the hospital in a boat when we ran into a timber log inside the water. And due to that, I lost my wife. I have not remarried because I remember her and that incident every day, he said.

If we had a good hospital in the community, I would have taken her there instead to deliver the baby.

Makoko is a densely populated waterside community in Lagos. The residents live in wooden homes on the lagoon and move around in canoes. Despite its size, Makoko lacks basic amenities, including healthcare facilities.

Preventable deaths

Nigeria has some of the highest cases of maternal mortality, with 1,047 deaths per 100,000 live births, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).

In a report titled Improving Maternal and Newborn Health and Survival and Reducing Stillbirths: Progress Report 2023, WHO revealed that Nigeria ranked second behind India in maternal and neonatal deaths, with 82,000 maternal deaths, 181,000 stillbirths, and 277,000 neonatal deaths.

The countrys 540,000 deaths represent 12 per cent of global maternal, stillbirth, and neonatal deaths, despite contributing just six per cent of the worlds live births.

This data reflects both Nigerias large population and the deep gaps in its health system.

In remote settlements and underserved communities like Makoko, the impact of these gaps is severe. Without access to emergency obstetric care or adequately equipped health facilities, women and newborns are vulnerable during childbirth.

Meanwhile, the 2023 WHO report highlighted a global crisis: a woman dies every two minutes from pregnancy-related complications, equivalent to 800 mostly preventable deaths per day.

Maternal mortality in Lagos

According to 2022 data from the Lagos State Ministry of Health, the maternal mortality ratio in Lagos was previously estimated at 555 deaths per 100,000 live births, a figure higher than the national average of 545 per 100,000 live births recorded in the 2008 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS).

Despite years of health interventions, recent data suggest that maternal mortality in Lagos remains alarmingly high.

A 2024 study published in the Nigerian Library of Medicine (NLM), titled A Population-Based Estimation of Maternal Mortality in Lagos State, revealed that one in every 51 women in the state faces the risk of dying from pregnancy-related causes.

The study employed the indirect sisterhood method, a widely used approach in settings with limited official data to assess the scale of maternal deaths through community-level information rather than hospital records. Researchers interviewed participants about the survival of their adult sisters to determine how many had died from pregnancy or childbirth-related causes.

Out of 546 deceased sisters reported during the survey, 120 (about 22 per cent) were confirmed to have died from maternal causes. This translated to a maternal mortality ratio (MMR) of 430 deaths per 100,000 live births, a figure that remains significantly above global and national targets.

The study also revealed that younger women faced higher risks. Among sisters aged 20 to 24, nearly 47 per cent of reported deaths were maternal, whereas for those aged 45 to 49, over 90 per cent of deaths were unrelated to pregnancy.

Preventable risk and sustainable solutions

The 9th of December 2024 was a dark day for another resident of Makoko, Zanu Lako, and his family.

Mr Lako, also a fisherman, lost his wife shortly after giving birth to a set of twins at a clinic in the community. When the clinics officials told him they could no longer handle her case, he took her to a hospital in Eastland, Eko, where she died.

She delivered safely, but not long after, she started bleeding, he said.

The leading causes of maternal mortality globally include severe bleeding (mostly after childbirth), infections, high blood pressure during pregnancy (pre-eclampsia and eclampsia), complications from delivery, and unsafe abortions. Most of these complications are preventable or treatable with timely medical care.

Newborn survival

While maternal mortality often dominates public health discussions, newborn survival remains an equally urgent crisis.

According to a United Nations Childrens Fund (UNICEF) report, approximately 262,000 babies die at birth in Nigeria yearly, again the second-highest number in the world.

Poor healthcare infrastructure, limited access to skilled birth attendants, and a lack of emergency obstetric and neonatal care significantly contribute to these tragic outcomes.

In rural and underserved communities, deliveries frequently take place without adequate equipment, increasing the risk of fatal complications. Unsanitary delivery conditions, absence of incubators, and lack of oxygen support for distressed newborns further worsen the situation. Without access to proper postnatal care, these children face an uphill battle from the moment they are born.

Ashley Lori, CEO of the non-profit Pad-Up, noted that in communities like Makoko, maternal and newborn challenges begin before birth. Mrs Lori explained that pregnancy and delivery are high-risk due to poor infrastructure, with many births occurring off-grid without adequate medical support.

Deliveries often happen in the dark, using phone torches or atunpa lamps, and procedures like caesarean sections may not be possible, she said.

Even after birth, newborns face life-threatening infections from poor sanitation and lack of preventive care. Airborne diseases, such as tuberculosis, pneumonia, and influenza, are significant risks, as are those transmitted through water and mosquitoes.

According to a 2024 report by the WHO, TB during pregnancy increases the risk of maternal death by two to three times.

The report also linked maternal TB and respiratory infections to poor birth outcomes like preterm delivery, low birth weight, and increased neonatal deaths, especially in low-resource settings.

A study, Climate Change Impacts on Maternal Health and Pregnancy Outcomes in Africa, also found that climate-related increases in tropical and waterborne illnesses disproportionately affect expectant mothers, contributing to higher maternal mortality rates.

Mrs Lori noted that many residents of Makoko fetch water directly from nearby dams. Because their immune systems are still developing, she said, babies can easily pick up infections like typhoid, and in severe cases, this could prove fatal.

She added that due to the waterlogged environment, children in the area are also more susceptible to diseases such as malaria and pneumonia.

To reduce these risks, Mrs Lori proposed some simple measures to protect newborns from environmental hazards. These include sleeping under mosquito nets, boiling drinking water, and limiting the babys exposure to contaminated water. She also emphasised the importance of regular postnatal check-ups and vaccinations for hepatitis and yellow fever.

She said the mother also needs to eat well, as her health directly affects the baby through breastfeeding.

Mrs Lori noted that the problem goes beyond infrastructure, stressing the need for community-driven solutions.

She advocated for inclusive, sustainable interventions where locals arent just beneficiaries but active participants, including men.

She also emphasised accountability and consistent oversight, calling for regular training, monitoring, and independent feedback to track impact. Without these, she warned, efforts from governments and donors will continue to fall short.

She added that in places like Makoko, communities must be equipped with the tools and knowledge to protect themselves, especially women and children exposed to harsh living conditions.

Health care in Makoko

Although Makoko has some health clinics, they are not equipped for obstetric emergencies.

When PREMIUM TIMES visited a clinic in the community in May, reaching it required a canoe ride through the lagoon. Built on stilts and accessible only by a shaky wooden ladder, the facility consists of a dimly lit room with a barely padded wooden bed.

Pregnant women in labour must climb from a rocking canoe up the ladder, risking their lives and their babies before even receiving care.

A chief in Makoko, Francis Agonyo, said many residents had died from diseases such as cholera.

Mr Agonyo lamented the lack of lifesaving equipment, particularly during childbirth complications.

Before they take delivery, there must be some equipment there that, if an alternative comes, the instrument will help to give strength and give the woman strength to push, but we dont have it. Thats what, at times, brings fatality.

A primary school teacher and Makoko resident, Iroko Temitope, shared a similar sentiment.

Mr Temitope said most health interventions in the community come from NGOs and private initiatives that organise free medical outreaches. Some of these include Slum2School Africa, Jomiyon Health and Humanitarian Organisation, and Medplus Foundation.

According to him, residents often visit the Oyingbo Health Centre or the Eko General Hospital, both a few kilometres away, depending on the type of medical service they require and their financial means.

Volunteers

Steven Thousand, a community health worker, travelled to the Republic of Benin to learn basic birth attendance skills and now volunteers at a small clinic in Makoko, offering care regardless of whether patients can pay.

Even when they cant pay, we help them deliver safely, another health worker at the clinic, Agonsu Ruth, said. But we need support, medicine, and equipment to do more.

The role of midwives

According to the WHO, over 60 per cent of maternal and newborn deaths in Nigeria could be prevented if more women had access to skilled midwives. In addition, 45 per cent of stillbirths could be avoided with adequate care before, during, and after childbirth.

In communities like Makoko, midwives are the first and sometimes only option for care.

Mocho Elen delivers babies in a clinic on wooden stilts. With no ambulance or surgical tools, her small team handles most cases with little more than experience, prayer, and determination.

For Ms Elen, her work is a form of service. Its a help we render to the community because its not the money theyre supposed to pay.

If we have a difficult issue, we call our colleagues or refer the patient to the General Hospital.

Akinbami Mafule, known as Yagabo, runs a small birth centre on land. Ms Mafules clinic serves women from Makoko and nearby communities who cannot afford or reach a hospital. Her approach blends local herbal practices with modern medication.

We need medicine that will favour pregnant women and also favour a woman who has just given birth. Pad, medicine useful to someone breastfeeding.

Makoko versus Lagos State

Makoko, a century-old fishing community on the Lagos lagoon, has long clashed with the Lagos State Government over demolitions and urban renewal.

The Lagos government wants to demolish Makoko as part of its urban renewal programme.

In 2012, officials issued a 72-hour eviction notice to residents of Makoko, which led to the demolition of parts of the waterfront and sparked global outrage.

In recent years, the government and private developers have proposed dredging and land reclamation projects to beautify the waterfront; however, residents argue that these projects threaten their homes, livelihoods, and cultural heritage.

Civil society groups also alleged inadequate consultation and the absence of compensation.

The dispute is currently pending in court.

Healthcare in Bariga

Like Makoko, Bariga, another Lagos community, struggles with gaps in maternal and newborn care.

Bariga extends onto the lagoon. Access to quality healthcare is limited, with pregnant women relying on poorly equipped clinics and overwhelmed health workers.

Francis Nnuka, a community health worker in Bariga for over 20 years, said many women face life-threatening risks during childbirth due to the long distance to hospitals, language barriers, and lack of funds for care.

We see a lot of pregnant women here every month. Even when they cant pay, we do our best because lives are at stake, he said.

Fear of eviction

Ikebeji Henry, one of the community leaders, stated that the residents do not speak out about their challenges due to fear of eviction.

Because of what happened before, when they demolished our houses, we are scared that if we speak up, they will chase us away, he said.

During PREMIUM TIMES visit to the clinic at Bariga, a resident, Ayisou Alufonsie, cradled her one-month-old baby at a small clinic. She said, The clinic lacks even basic amenities. There are no beds, no mattresses, nothing to lie on.

Mrs Alufonsie said travelling outside Bariga for maternal care could cost up to N7,000 in transport alone. She paid between N30,000 and N40,000 for delivery at the Bariga clinic.

Funding without impact

Gabriel Nwala, a consultant paediatrician at Limi Childrens Hospital, Abuja, attributed Nigerias high maternal mortality to funding gaps, weak infrastructure, and poor primary healthcare systems.

Mr Nwala noted that while health budgets, such as the proposed N2 trillion for 2025, may seem large, they fall short of global standards. Nigeria has never met the 15 per cent Abuja Declaration budget allocation target, allocating just about five per cent to the health sector in 2025.

The consultant stated that even the funds allocated often fail to reach the grassroots, where they are most needed. He added that facilities are under-resourced, lack trained personnel, and are unable to provide quality care.

Mr Nwala also noted that socioeconomic barriers prevent many women from seeking care, particularly in rural areas.

Its not just about the funding. The people themselves often cant afford healthcare. Women who are not empowered financially depend on their husbands, and when they cant pay, they resort to traditional practitioners who may worsen outcomes.

Lagos State Government plans

PREMIUM TIMES reached out to the Lagos State government over our findings in Makoko and Bariga.

In an interview, Kemi Ogunyemi, the special adviser to the governor on Health, highlighted several government initiatives aimed at strengthening maternal and newborn healthcare in communities with limited access to formal health facilities.

Ms Ogunyemi acknowledged the need for more primary healthcare centres across Lagos and said the state government was working to expand services in underserved areas.

We know more centres are needed, and the government is working on that. The real challenge is getting skilled personnel to man these centres, she said.

To address the shortage, she explained that the state has approved the establishment of the Lagos State University of Medical and Health Sciences, which will train more doctors, nurses, and other health professionals.

She also revealed plans to introduce more water ambulances to improve emergency access in riverine communities, such as Makoko. We currently have just one, but were planning to add more so we can reach areas only accessible by water, she said.

Regarding the regulation of traditional birth attendants (TBAs), Ms Ogunyemi stated that the government is collaborating with the Traditional Medicine Board to ensure that TBAs are properly trained and monitored.

Regarding facilities in communities like Makoko and Bariga, Ms Ogunyemi confirmed that expansion is part of the plan, but subject to available funding and personnel.

She also spoke about the states emergency response and referral systems for pregnant women.

She pointed to support from the Gates Foundation through the Mamabase programme, which covers the full cost of care and transportation for indigent women.

The state also has ambulance services such as LASAMBUS, and some primary healthcare centres are linked to general hospitals with additional transport support.

These interventions, alongside the Lagos State Health Scheme, are all part of the broader commitment under the Governors THEMES+ agenda, which prioritises access to affordable, quality care for all, she said.

However, despite these promises and ongoing interventions, especially in underserved communities such as Makoko and Bariga, official records reveal a consistent mismatch between budgetary allocations and actual implementation within the primary healthcare sector.

From the states approved 2025 budget of N3.37 trillion, the health sector was allocated N222.2 billion, representing just 6.6 per cent of the total budget.

This falls significantly short of the 15 per cent target set by the Abuja Declaration.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has warned that antimicrobial resistance (AMR) remains a silent but escalating threat, claiming more than 60,000 lives in Nigeria every year.

According to WHO estimates, the country has recorded this burden annually since 1990, noting how deeply rooted the problem has become.

In 2021 alone, Nigeria recorded an estimated 50,500 deaths directly attributable to AMR and 227,000 associated deaths, with children under five bearing the heaviest toll.

In a message to commemorate the 2025 World AMR Awareness Week, WHO Representative and Head of Mission to Nigeria, Pavel Ursu, described AMR as a rapidly evolving public health emergency that disproportionately harms lower- and middle-income countries and vulnerable populations.

Mr Ursu noted that the phenomenon is already undermining health systems, increasing healthcare costs and threatening food security, environmental stability and sustainable development.

Outbreaks of multidrug-resistant infections, he added, remain widespread in settings with poor infection prevention and control, particularly among children and other at-risk groups in communities and hospitals.

What is AMR?

AMR is the ability of microorganisms, such as bacteria, viruses, fungi and parasites, to survive and grow despite exposure to medicines designed to kill them or stop their growth.

When these microorganisms become resistant, antimicrobial medicines, including antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals and antiparasitic drugs, no longer work effectively, making infections significantly harder to treat.

AMR develops gradually, often due to the misuse or overuse of antimicrobial medicines, poor infection prevention practices, and the spread of resistant strains across communities, healthcare facilities, food systems, and the environment.

Global burden

Citing global estimates, Mr Ursu said antimicrobial resistance was associated with 4.71 million deaths in 2021, including 1.14 million directly attributable to drug-resistant infections.

He noted that Sub-Saharan Africa alone, recorded about 250,000 deaths in the same year.

He added that the world loses an estimated 178 million disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) to AMR, and projections indicate the crisis could cost the global economy nearly $1 trillion annually if left unchecked.

Recent modelling also shows that AMR could claim up to 39 million lives by 2050.

Given these trends, Mr Ursu emphasised the urgent need to integrate AMR surveillance and control into primary healthcare, alongside broader initiatives focused on food security, climate action, and universal health coverage.

Call to action

World AMR Awareness Week (WAAW) is celebrated on 1824 November annually, to raise awareness of AMR and promote best practices to prevent its spread.

The 2025 WAAW is themed Act Now: Protect Our Present, Secure Our Future.

This years event provides an opportunity for governments and stakeholders to renew commitments made at the 2024 UN General Assembly High-level Meeting on AMR, as well as ahead of the 5th Global High-level Ministerial Conference on AMR, which Nigeria will host in Abuja in 2026.

Mr Ursu urged policymakers, civil society groups, healthcare providers, veterinarians, farmers, environmental actors and the public to translate political commitments into tangible, accountable, life-saving interventions.

Strengthening surveillance, access and innovation

Mr Ursu called for long-term investment in AMR prevention and control, including enhanced One Health surveillance, a national AMR survey, improved access to quality medicines and diagnostics, and stronger support for research and innovation.

He emphasised that strengthened health systems, supported by sustainable domestic financing, are crucial to delivering an effective AMR response.

Every action, he explained, contributes to reducing antimicrobial resistance, whether through hospital administrators establishing antimicrobial stewardship teams or farmers adopting sustainable waste management practices.

Mr Ursu noted that investing in AMR action is a smart and essential step, warning that failure to act now will undermine future health and development gains.

He stressed that everyone has a role to play, from shaping policy and delivering care to protecting ecosystems and raising awareness, and reiterated that acting now to safeguard the present and secure the future is a shared responsibility.

He added that collective effort will help Nigeria preserve the effectiveness of antimicrobial medicines and build a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.
The Nigerian government has reported significant progress in tobacco control, with new data indicating declines in tobacco use nationwide.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Iziaq Salako, disclosed this while delivering Nigerias statement at the 11th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP11) to the World Health Organisation Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC), in Geneva on Monday.

Mr Salako said the country has strengthened its tobacco enforcement measures, noting that Nigerias Federal Competition and Consumer Protection Commission (FCCPC) recently imposed a $110 million fine on British American Tobacco Nigeria (BATN).

He stated that the penalty resulted from multiple breaches of the National Tobacco Control Act, its regulations, and other consumer protection laws.

He said the decision sends a strong message that the tobacco industry must bear responsibility for actions that undermine public health.

He reaffirmed the countrys commitment to a tobacco-free future and its alignment with the African Group.

BATN is the local subsidiary of British American Tobacco, one of the worlds largest multinational tobacco companies.

Data Collection

Mr Salako announced that Nigeria has completed data collection and analysis for the second round of the Global Adult Tobacco Survey (GATS 2025), the countrys first update since 2012.

The new findings, he said, reveal a notable decline in daily tobacco use among adults, reflecting the impact of national policies, enforcement actions and public health awareness campaigns.

The survey also found that pictorial health warnings are increasingly effective, with the proportion of smokers considering quitting due to graphic warnings rising from 26.7% in 2012 to 43.3% in 2025. Exposure to second-hand smoke in homes and public places has also declined significantly.

Mr Salako commended the leadership of the COP11 secretariat for convening the global meeting and noted that Nigeria has accelerated critical tobacco control reforms since COP10 in 2024.

Tobacco control framework

Speaking on strategies, Mr Salako outlined new strategic instruments designed to fast-track implementation of the National Tobacco Control Act (2015) and its Regulations (2018), including the National Tobacco Control Strategic Plan of Action (20242028), the National Tobacco Control Communication Strategy (20242028), and the National Tobacco Control Enforcement Plan (20242028).

He said these frameworks are strengthening surveillance, compliance and multisectoral collaboration across government institutions.

Mr Salako added that Nigerias National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has implemented new regulations enforcing a comprehensive ban on Tobacco Advertising, Promotion and Sponsorship (TAPS) across films, music videos, television and digital platforms.

He described the action as a bold and historic step to advance Article 13 of the WHO FCTC and curb indirect promotion of tobacco products.

Renewed global commitment

Reflecting on the COP11 theme, Healthy planet, healthy future: uniting for a tobacco-free generation, Mr Salako highlighted the importance of renewed global commitment as the WHO FCTC marks its 20th anniversary.

He said the milestone offers an opportunity to further prevent non-communicable diseases and reduce the environmental harm caused by tobacco.

Despite the progress recorded, Mr Salako acknowledged challenges, including subnational enforcement gaps, the spread of emerging nicotine products and persistent interference from the tobacco industry.

He reaffirmed that Nigeria remains unwaveringly committed to the WHO FCTC and will continue to seek international collaboration, technical support and knowledge exchange to advance tobacco control efforts.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Akin Abayomi, on Wednesday said the state can inject over N400 billion annually into the healthcare financing system if 20 million residents enrol in the states health insurance scheme.

Mr Abayomi said this during the inauguration of the Lagos Private Health Partnership (LPHP), a reform initiative designed to restructure health financing, expand insurance coverage, and ensure equitable access to quality healthcare for residents.

He said the initiative aims to achieve this through a unified, transparent, publicprivate collaboration framework.

The commissioner explained that the projected N400 billion annually into the healthcare financing system could be achieved with an average premium of N20,000 yearly.

He emphasised that without widespread enrolment, Lagos would not actualise a functional insurance ecosystem capable of delivering equitable, people-centred care.

Mr Abayomi lamented that, despite Lagos economic prowess and booming population exceeding 25 million, the state continued to suffer from inadequate health financing, low insurance penetration, workforce attrition, and increasing medical tourism.

He emphasised that the LPHP is purposely engineered to restore fairness, transparency, quality, and sustainability through a collaborative procurement platform.

He noted that it was a decisive break from a decade-long fragmented and inefficient private health insurance marketplace characterised by unhealthy price undercutting, unpopular enrollee access restrictions, and loss of trust among stakeholders.

Health Insurance Scheme

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the state health insurance is implemented through the Lagos State Health Scheme (LSHS), popularly known as Ilera Eko, which is compulsory for all residents, employers, and workers.

The policy is based on an Executive Order signed by Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu in July 2024, requiring enrollment in either the state-run or an accredited private health insurance provider to access non-emergency public healthcare services.

Mr Abayomi reiterated that full enforcement of mandatory health insurance would begin after a six-month sensitisation window.

This, according to him, aligns with the governors directive to scale risk-pooling, cross-subsidisation, and financial protection.

He explained the LPHP to be the governments strategic tool for reversing the trend, improving health outcome indicators, and recalibrating patient confidence in domestic healthcare capacity.

LPHP is underpinned by a robust digital marketplace where enrollment, provider selection, fund flow, claims management, monitoring, reporting, and evaluation will occur seamlessly with compliance footprints, he said.

Mr Abayomi explained that LPHP would introduce a state-managed risk equalisation and solidarity fund, requiring private insurers to contribute 13 per cent of premiums to protect vulnerable populations, strengthen emergency response, and sustain universal health coverage commitments.

Similarly, Governor Sanwo-Olu described LPHP as a historic step towards building a resilient and future-driven health financing architecture capable of protecting households from catastrophic expenditure.

Mr Sanwo-Olu, represented by Abimbola Salu-Hundeyin, Secretary to the State Government, emphasised that the initiative demonstrates Lagos seriousness in translating compulsory health insurance mandates into effective, scalable, and economically viable implementation.

According to him, LPHP emerged directly from Lagos domestication of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA) Act of 2022 through an Executive Order signed in July 2024.

He noted that the reform would strengthen private health service delivery which is responsible for over 70 per cent of healthcare delivery in Lagos.

The Governor stressed that LPHP would also enable insurers and providers to operate within a clearly defined framework that balances profitability, service standards, and equity.

He disclosed that the state had adopted a population-based enrolment model for employees of private organisations to streamline risk distribution and subsidised plan access.

Also, Adebayo Adedewe, Chairperson, Lagos State Health Management Agency (LASHMA), described LPHP as a credible solution to long-standing challenges in the health insurance space.

In his remarks, Jimi Arigbabuwo, National Adviser on Health Insurance Matters for the Healthcare Providers Association of Nigeria (HCPAN), said LPHP signifies a turning point in the recognition and integration of private sector providers to Nigerias healthcare services.

Mr Arigbabuwo urged the government to prioritise fair compensation for providers to guarantee sustainability, patient satisfaction, and reduction in outbound medical tourism.

(NAN)
A Russian soldier, with his face blurred, poses in front of the bodies of three Ukrainian soldiers lying face down in a pool of blood, their hands clasped behind their heads. The image, shared by the Russian Rusich unit on its Telegram channel, is accompanied by an announcement for a contest: The first three people to submit a photo of prisoners who have clearly been erased from existence will receive a cryptocurrency reward. It is a war crime, yet another in the relentless conflict that the Kremlin descibes as a special military operation. This time, however, it has sparked a competition that Ukrainian forces have also joined.

The photograph was initially circulated by other Russian ultranationalist channels last week. Then, a fighter from the Russian Volunteer Corps, a unit that supports Ukraine and fights against the Kremlin, saw it and shared it on his Instagram profile, calling for revenge. The Sabotage Assault Reconnaissance Group (Rusich), saw the post and has escalated the situation into a bloody contest, with prizes.

Take a lesson from the enemy: this is what a victorious army looks like, not a gang, said the pro-Ukrainian military officer, nicknamed Slavian, while urging his men to imitate their enemies.

In his subsequent post, the Russian Volunteer Corps member shared images sent to him by other Ukrainian soldiers, showing them posing with the bodies of dead Russian combatants. In a video, a soldier shot a deceased Russian in the head in the middle of a forest, next to the caption: Long live death. According to the Russian Volunteer Corps, speaking to the independent news channel Sota, their official stance is not to touch prisoners, and the challenge issued by Slavian only involves taking photos with dead soldiers. This claim has not been verified.

Slavians words were paraphrased by Rusich days later. Take note. This is how you photograph a victorious army, not a losing one, the unit retorted last weekend, while announcing its competition.

A wounded Ukrainian soldier receives medical attention near the front line in the Donetsk region, on June 27, 2025. VITALII NOSACH (EFE)

This is not the first time Rusich has proposed executing prisoners of war. At the start of the invasion in 2022, when the first exchanges of captured troops between Moscow and Kyiv were made public, the unit published a guide entitled Instructions for the Elimination of Prisoners of War of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

The document recommended not informing soldiers from other Russian companies about the executions. If it has been reported, then report that the enemy is wounded and may die, it advised.

However, executions are not exceptional. Ukraine reported a wave of killings of its prisoners of war in 2024. And a year ago, Russian President Vladimir Putin posed with the flag of the 155th Marine Infantry Brigade during his traditional annual address to the media and the public. That unit, in fact, had been accused of impaling the severed heads of Ukrainian soldiers.

According to Russian veterans who spoke to this newspaper, snipers and drone pilots are often the most vulnerable to being killed when they surrender. Their executions, shown in videos, range from point-blank shootings to beheadings. The front is terrible. The shock makes it impossible for some to behave humanely. A person who experiences this cannot be normal after the war, in any country, a Russian commander said months ago.

The Geneva Convention relative to the Treatment of Prisoners of War, to which both Russia and Ukraine are signatories, expressly forbids the execution of surrendered soldiers.

Among the prohibited acts laid out in Article 3 of the convention, a pillar of international law, are: Violence to life and person, in particular murder of all kinds, mutilation, cruel treatment and torture, and the passing of sentences and the carrying out of executions without previous judgment pronounced by a regularly constituted court affording all the judicial guarantees which are recognized as indispensable by civilized peoples.

In any case, it is Moscow and Kyiv, not Rusich or any other specific unit on either side, that are ultimately responsible for these war crimes. Prisoners of war are in the hands of the enemy Power, but not of the individuals or military units who have captured them. Irrespective of the individual responsibilities that may exist, the Detaining Power is responsible for the treatment given them, Article 12 of the Geneva Convention emphasizes.

Furthermore, the document stipulates that if the belligerent power cannot guarantee the protection of prisoners of war, it must entrust their safety to a neutral state or to organizations such as the Red Cross.

Glory to Rus! Glory to Morana! This was the slogan with which Rusich concluded the announcement of its prisoner execution contest. The word Rus refers to several ancient peoples of Eastern Europe of uncertain origins who gave rise to Kievan Rus, the first of several medieval Slavic states. Morana, for her part, was the ancient Slavic goddess of death.

Rusich, now part of the Russian Armed Forces, was a unit of the Wagner mercenary company. The group is known for its openly far-right ideology. Its leader, Alexey Milchakov, declared himself a Nazi in a 2014 interview with the digital media outlet Sputnik and Pogrom, and its symbol is the Kolovrat, an eight-pointed swastika-like rune popularized by Alexey Dobrovolsky, one of the fathers of Slavic neo-paganism in Russia. The military patch is completed with the white, yellow, and black colors of the Russian imperial flag.

The Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK) was founded by exiles with the goal of overthrowing the Kremlin. Its leader is Denis Kapustin, also known as Denis Nikitin, a martial arts fighter who has been linked to far-right groups in Europe and who was banned from entering the Schengen Area by Germany.

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A wave of anger, blame game, and legislative inquiry has followed the invasion of the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School (GGCSS) in Maga, Kebbi State, where bandits abducted 25 students on Monday.

As the families of the abducted schoolgirls begin an agonising wait, the narrative of the tragedy has shifted from shock to accusations of betrayal and sabotage by state actors.

While the First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has rallied support for the armed forces, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has levelled explosive allegations against security operatives, claiming actionable intelligence was ignored.

Clear sabotage

In a startling revelation on Monday evening, Governor Idris accused the security agencies of ignoring credible intelligence provided by the State Security Services (SSS) regarding an imminent attack on the school.

Speaking during a visit to the school in the Danko/Wasagu Local Government Area, a visibly angry Mr Idris described the incident as clear sabotage.

He disclosed that following the SSS alert, the State Security Council had ordered round-the-clock protection for the institution.

However, operatives reportedly abandoned their duty posts shortly before the bandits struck.

We got credible intelligence from the DSS that this school was likely to be attacked The decision was that we would provide round-the-clock protection, the governor said. This is clear sabotage.

Corroborating the governors claim, a teacher who survived the attack told reporters that heavily armed security personnel had spent Sunday night at the school, interacting and taking photographs with students.

Sadly, for yet-to-be-determined reasons, they reportedly left the school before dawn, the teacher narrated. About 30 minutes after they withdrew, the kidnappers struck.

Governor Idris has since constituted a special investigation panel, to be chaired by the State Director of the SSS, to probe the security failure and coordinate rescue efforts.

The Attack: A pre-dawn tragedy

The attack, which occurred at approximately 4 a.m. on Monday, was swift and brutal.

According to witnesses, gunmen arriving on motorcycles scaled the perimeter fence, engaging police guards in a gun duel.

Residents recounted how the bandits targeted the staff quarters firsta tactical move to decapitate the schools leadership before taking the students. The violence claimed the life of the Vice Principal, Mr Makuku, who was shot dead while attempting to shield his students.

His wife, Amina Hassan, provided a harrowing account of the terrorists ruthlessness and the confusion that reigned during the invasion.

We started struggling with them one of them pulled out his gun and shot my husband. Then he dragged me by my hand outside I told them to leave me alone, that I would not go with them since they have killed the father of my children, Mrs Hassan narrated.

We were sleeping when, around 3:30 a.m., we heard noises at the door. I woke my husband, thinking it was animals disturbing us. Tragically, the bandits broke down the door and entered our home. They killed my husband, Mrs Hassan narrated.

She further detailed how the attackers attempted to use her family to locate the students.

Afterward, they ordered me to follow them, but I refused. At that moment, my daughter came out of the bedroom. The bandits forced her to follow them instead, pushing her ahead at gunpoint to lead them to the girls. When they arrived and saw the students, they abandoned my daughter, which allowed her to escape.

While the vice principals wife and daughter were spared, 25 students were herded into the forest.

By Tuesday morning, a glimmer of hope emerged when the schools principal, Musa Magaji, confirmed that one student had escaped and returned home safely, leaving 24 girls still in captivity.

Senate Response: Probe into Safe School Initiative

The outrage spilled onto the floor of the National Assembly on Tuesday.

The Senate, acting on a motion by former Senate Leader Yahaya Abdullahi (Kebbi North), observed a minute of silence for the slain Vice Principal and the missing girls.

Mr Abdullahi expressed deep indignation, describing the abduction as a slap in the face to the nation and recalling the trauma of the 2021 Birnin Yauri abduction.

The terrorisation of our students, children, and educational institutions must stop immediately, Mr Abdullahi stated. A country that cannot secure its children cannot fulfil its obligations to its citizens.

Following a heated debate on the countrys deteriorating security situation, the Senate resolved to set up an ad hoc committee to probe the effectiveness of the federal governments Safe School Initiative, which has faced renewed scrutiny amid recurring attacks.

Lawmakers also adjourned plenary until 25 November to enable senators to participate in ongoing zonal security summits aimed at harmonising regional responses to insecurity.

During the session, senators Francis Fadahunsi and Asuquo Ekpeyong demanded consequences for security failures, insisting that the Army, Air Force, and Police must end their siloed operations.

First Lady backs service chiefs, mourns with wives

In Abuja, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu offered a different tone, focusing on solidarity with the armed forces while condemning the act as reprehensible.

Receiving the wives of the Service Chiefs at the State House on Tuesday, Mrs Tinubu requested a minute of silence for the victims. She commended the current Service Chiefs and their spousesincluding Elizabeth Egbetokun and Sefiyan Shuaibufor their commitment to national security despite the risks.

I acknowledge the challenges faced by security personnel in Kebbi, Mrs Tinubu said, urging the wives of the officers to collaborate with her office to support the welfare of widows and veterans.

She hailed the new security leadership for their efforts to restore peace, a perspective that contrasts with the accusations of negligence emanating from the Kebbi Government House.

Security response and community skepticism

Despite the controversy, the machinery of the state has moved into action.

Nigerias Chief of Army Staff, Waidi Shaibu, visited the scene hours after the attack, issuing a directive to troops to conduct intelligence-driven operations and relentless day-and-night pursuit of the abductors.

Success is not optional, he declared.

Similarly, the Kebbi Police Command, through spokesperson Nafiu Abubakar Kotarkoshi, confirmed the deployment of tactical teams to block escape routes into neighbouring Zamfara and Sokoto states, known havens for bandit groups.

However, on the streets of Maga, the mood is one of betrayal and fatigue.

Abdulkarim Maga, a resident whose daughter and granddaughter were among those taken, expressed the confusion and pain of the community.

He challenged initial casualty figures and lamented that the community is tired of promises.

For the parents, the reaction is a mixture of prayer and panic, haunted by the timeline of the Birnin Yauri abduction in June 2021, where over 100 students were taken. In that tragedy, parents were forced to crowdfund millions in ransom, and some girls were held for over two years, with reports of forced marriages to bandit warlords like Dogo Gide.

Civil society and international dimensions

The Gender Educators Initiative (GEI) joined the condemnation on Tuesday. Shafaatu Suleiman, the groups Executive Lead, emphasised the gendered dimension of the conflict.

Women and children bear the brunt of insecurity, facing abductions, sexual violence, and long-term trauma, Ms Suleiman said, calling for a revamp of the Safe Schools Initiative to include functional perimeter fencing and community-based intelligence networks.

The abduction has also drawn international commentary. Security experts like Oluwole Ojewale of the Institute for Security Studies noted that these abductions are fueled by the illicit economic gains of terrorism.

US Representative Riley Moore seized on the incident to criticise Nigerias protection of Christians.

This claim was made despite police confirmations that the abducted girls in this specific incident were Muslims, highlighting how the tragedy is being interpreted through different lenses abroad, often detached from the local reality of indiscriminate banditry.

A decade of vulnerability

The Maga abduction is the latest grim chapter in a decade-long crisis targeting Nigerian education. According to data from The ICIR, over 1,000 students were kidnapped from Nigerian schools between 2014 and November 2025.

From the 276 Chibok girls in 2014 to the mass abductions in Kankara, Kagara, and Yauri, the pattern remains unbroken. With 24 girls still in the Maga forest, the pressure is now on the Tinubu administration to prove that its security architecture can deliver where previous ones have faltered.
A coalition of 44 serving members of the House of Representatives has written to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to exercise his constitutional authority to release the detained leader of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), Nnamdi Kanu, and initiate a broad political dialogue to address the security and socio-political challenges in the South-east.

The lawmakers, drawn from various political parties and representing constituencies across both the North and South, issued a two-page letter and resolution under the platform of Concerned Federal Lawmakers.

Their appeal marks a new phase in the growing national demand for a political resolution to the long-running agitation in the region.

In the letter, the legislators asked the president to as soon as practicable direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to invoke his constitutional powers by discontinuing Mr Kanus ongoing prosecution. They argued that such a step would pave the way for an inclusive roundtable capable of producing a lasting and just political settlement.

The letter, endorsed by lawmakers including Ikenga Ugochinyere, Obi Aguocha, Murphy Osaro, Peter Akpanke, Mudshiru Lukman, Paul Nnamechi, Sunday Cyriacus, Obed Shehu, Dominic Okafor, Ugwu Emmanuel, Daniel Ago, Chike Okafor and Adam Ogene, emphasised that Mr Kanus prolonged detention has continued to fuel tensions and insecurity in the South-east.

Others who signed include Emeka Chinedu, Chimaobi Sam, Alex Ikwechegh, Donatus Matthew, Ibe Osonwa, Okey-Joe Onuakalusi, Thaddeus Atta, Udema Okonkwo, Cyril Godwin, Chinwe Nnabuike, Kana Nkemkama, Peter Aniekwe, Gwachem Maureen, Anayo Onwuegbu, Nwobosi Joseph, Amobi Godwin, Blessing Amadi, Anthony Adepoju, Joshua Gana, Chris Nkwonta, Emeka Idu, Peter Uzokwe, Matthew Nwogu, Tochukwu Okere, Benedict Etanabene, Godwin Offiono, Ngozi Okolie and Nnamdi Ezechi.

The legislators noted that the federal government had in the past engaged in negotiations with other militant and agitating groups across the country, making it imperative to adopt similar political tools in resolving the South-east question.

They also referenced several domestic court rulings and international tribunal pronouncements that have favoured Mr Kanu, as well as the growing national sentiment supporting his release.

In the letter titled National Interest Driven Resolution by Concerned Federal Lawmakers on the Continued Detention of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu, the group said their position followed a closed-door strategy session and wide consultations across party and ethnic lines.

Part of the letter reads: Driven by the abiding and urgent need for national reconciliation and healing, and having noted the Federal Governments open negotiations with militants and different agitating groups in different parts of Nigeria; and in view of the insecurity that has pervaded South-east since late 2015 and which spiked since 2021 and in the realisation of the many domestic court and international tribunal pronouncements in favor of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and In the face of the growing national groundswell supporting the release of Mazi Nnamdi Kanu and for the discontinuance of his prosecution;

We, the within-named federal lawmakers, hereby respectfully and earnestly request our dear President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to, as soon as practicable, direct the Attorney-General of the Federation to exercise his constitutional powers and discontinue the prosecution of Mazi Namdi Kanu.

The lawmakers expressed gratitude to President Tinubu for what they described as his anticipated prompt consideration of their appeal, assuring him of their continued respect and support for his office.

The Nnamdi Kanu Case

Mr Kanu, leader of the proscribed Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB), has been at the centre of one of Nigerias most contentious legal and political disputes in the last decade. His agitation for a separate Biafran state has drawn both nationwide attention and polarising reactions, leading to repeated arrests, trials and confrontations between security agencies and supporters across the South-east.

Mr Kanu was first arrested in October 2015 and charged with treasonable felony, unlawful possession of firearms and managing an unlawful society.

After spending over a year in detention, he was granted bail in 2017 under strict conditions. However, he fled the country in 2017 following a military raid on his home in Abia State during Operation Python Dance. The federal government later declared him a fugitive.

READ ALSO: Nnamdi Kanu sues NMA for N50bn over alleged false medical report on his health status

In June 2021, Mr Kanu was re-arrested outside Nigeria under controversial circumstances and returned to Abuja to face prosecution. His lawyers insist he was extraordinarily renditioned, a claim repeatedly raised before Nigerian courts and international legal bodies. His continued detention has since fuelled weekly sit-at-home orders, violent clashes and a deteriorating security environment in parts of the South-east.

In October 2022, the Court of Appeal discharged and acquitted Mr Kanu of all remaining charges, ruling that his extraordinary rendition had violated international law and stripped the federal government of the right to continue the trial. The judgment was later stayed by the Supreme Court, which ordered the continuation of the trial.

Despite multiple court rulings questioning the legality of his detention, the federal government has maintained that Mr Kanu must face trial for alleged offences against the state. This has sparked widespread criticism from civil society groups, traditional institutions, religious bodies and political actors who argue that a political solution, not prolonged litigation, offers the most credible route to restoring stability in the South-east.
Jonathan Scott (real name withheld) had worked on the front lines in Ukraine since the start of the war, helping wounded soldiers and providing aid to civilians. Then on 30 January, a drone attacked his crew, and in a split second, he went from being a caregiver to becoming a patient himself.

Mr Scott recalled the hours leading up to the attack. He had gone around Pokrovsk, a city in Donetsk, eastern Ukraine, that morning in search of people trapped in their homes, fearing possible drone strikes from Russia, and those already injured who needed medical attention. The city was one of the areas in Ukraine heavily targeted by the Russian military.

That morning, Mr Scott and other members of the crew had rescued eight Ukrainian civilians and driven them out of the city in a white van. Hours later, at noon, the group returned to rescue more people, and in fact were almost successful as they were already driving out of the city when a drone crashed into the top of the van.

Although Mr Scott survived the attack, he lost his left arm and leg to it.

For months, Mr Scott struggled with his new reality. He was unwilling to accept that he would no longer be as active as he had been.

It was the hardest part of it for me, he told PREMIUM TIMES and other reporters in Lviv, a city in western Ukraine.

Mr Scott was an English sailor before arriving in Ukraine in 2022 to support victims of the war. He had lived a very active life.

The hardest part was accepting that I could no longer do those kinds of stuff I once did anymore. I have crossed the Atlantic nine times, travelled around the world, and provided humanitarian services. I went from being confident in myself, running around boats, frontlines, to having to put on a prosthetic leg if I want to walk, he said.

It is tough navigating the trauma and mental toll this takes on you, he declared.

Mr Scott narrated that it was this experience that brought him to the Superhumans Center in Lviv, western Ukraine, where he received medical and psychological support for months.

The Superhuman Center is a charity medical centre designed to provide care for victims of war.

Last year, PREMIUM TIMES reported how the modern facility was providing comprehensive care, including prosthetics, reconstructive surgery, rehabilitation, and psychological support for the victims.

The clinic was established in October 2022, about eight months into the Ukraine-Russian war, which has now led to the death of at least 12,654 Ukrainian civilians, according to the United Nations.

At least 29,392 civilians have been injured since 2022. In July 2025, the war-torn country recorded 1,388 civilian injuries. This represents the highest monthly figure since May 2022.

Mr Scott, who began working at the centre after his treatment, said the facility identified a similar pattern of trauma amongst victims of the war.

He explained that patients often struggled with anxiety, hypervigilance, irritability, and deep sadness.

This is why I accepted to work here. To help people recover mentally. Being in a world where you become disadvantaged and have to readjust to a new way of life after enduring a violent attack, he said.

The facility manager in Lviv, Konstantin Serhiy (real name withheld), told PREMIUM TIMES that victims also resort to drug abuse and struggle with addictions or numb the pain and mental struggles they deal with as a result of the war.

Multiple studies have shown that the mental impact of the war is widespread and severe, affecting civilians, soldiers, and displaced populations.

A report by the New Lines Institute, a Washington-based research organisation, showed that victims, particularly those from heavily shelled cities like Mariupol, Kharkiv, and Bakhmut, experience PTSD symptoms.

This is why we prioritise mental support and therapy, Mr Serhiy said. Our treatment for the physical health of the patients will be for nothing if we dont provide mental care.

For those addicted to drugs, we encourage them to go to a rehabilitation centre and get clean, and with mental support afterwards, he added.

Officials at the medical centre told reporters that patients at the clinic are referred to as superhuman as a form of support and recognition.

Mr Serhiy said that theres always a risk of being patronising when dealing with disabilities.

The term superhuman is that you are a human who has gone through a difficult situation. That you have survived the war. We want our patients to be confident, come off better than they were when they arrived, not just physically but also mentally, he said.
Armed police officers on Wednesday sealed the national secretariat of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Abuja.

The officers, stationed around the building, barricaded the premises with iron barbed wire, preventing party officials and visitors from gaining access.

The opposition partys new leadership had earlier postponed its inaugural National Executive Committee (NEC) meeting from Tuesday to Wednesday (today) due to the chaos that erupted at the secretariat.

Kabiru Turaki, the newly elected national chairman of the PDP announced the postponement while addressing governors, members of the Board of Trustees (BoT), and other stakeholders who had already gathered for the meeting.

Mr Turakis emergence as Chairperson at the Ibadan convention was rejected by a faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which argued that the convention violated an existing court order restraining it.

The Wike-backed faction, which has the embattled National Secretary of the PDP, Samuel Anyanwu, as member, recently appointed Mohammed Abdulrahman as its Chairperson.

During the Ibadan convention, the party expelled Messrs Wike, Anyanwu, Abdulrahman and eight other members of the faction over allegations of anti-party activities.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported the likelihood of a confrontation between Mr Turakis leadership and the Wike-aligned faction, as both groups scheduled meetings at the same venue, the PDP national secretariat, on Tuesday.

The two sides eventually clashed while attempting to access the NEC hall. Police fired teargas to prevent some officials from entering the premises.

Amid the chaos, Mr Wike, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Chairperson of the PDP Governors Forum, Governor Bala Mohammed of Bauchi State, engaged in a heated verbal exchange. The two governors asked the FCT Commissioner of Police, Dantawaye Miller, to order Mr Wike out of the secretariat, insisting he was no longer a member of the PDP.

As the arguement continued, police fired teargas both inside and outside the secretariat.

Mr Turaki has since assumed office after his team took control of the secretariat from the faction expelled at the Ibadan convention.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia said on Wednesday that there is no religious genocide in the state, countering a narrative pushed by United States government officials to declare Nigeria a Country of Particular Concern.

In my state of Benue, we dont have any religious, any ethnic, any racial, any national or state genocide. We dont have that.

Do we have a number of insecurities in the state? Yes, we do. But it is not a genocide. Someone would need to check the United Nations definitions for this, the governor said.

Mr Alia, a Catholic priest turned politician, said this during a consultative forum on the protection of the rights of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Forcibly Displaced Persons (FDPs) organised by the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Abuja.

He also maintained that there is no jihad going on in any part of the country, even though the two major rival terror groups operating mainly in Nigerias North-east  Boko Haram and ISWAP  have declared their aims to establish Islamic rule in their respective domains based on their distorted interpretation of Quaran widely regarded to be lacking scholarly credibility.

Boko Haram seeks a local Islamic state in Nigeria, while ISWAP envisions a broader caliphate across West Africa aligned with ISIS.

We do not have any jihad in Nigeria, Governor Alia maintained on Wednesday. Im speaking to you as a reverend father in the church. Im speaking to you as a governor of a state. If there were any, particularly in my state or any part of Nigeria, I would have been the very number one person to make a noise.

Mr Alias remarks come at a time Nigeria is facing scrutiny on the global stage over allegations of persecution and targeted killings of Christians.

The spotlight turned on Nigeria in the build-up to and subsequent designation of Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern by the United States, with threat from President Donald Trump to send troops to Nigeria to save Christians.

The Nigerian government, top officials and many respected voices, including religious leaders, have denied the claim of genocide in Nigeria. Although there is widespread insecurity in the country, the government said, it does not target religious groups. Data cited by US government officials to claim a Christian genocide in Nigeria cannot be independently verified, a BBC investigation found.

Christian and Muslim populations have been killed without discrimination in Nigerias widespread insecurity fuelled by weak governance, scramble for resources, banditry, among other factors.

Nigeria was first designated a Country of Particular Concern during the first term of President Donald Trump. But the designation was lifted during the Joe Biden presidency.

Interface with US embassy

Speaking during the event on Wednesday, the Benue State governor noted that he visited the American embassy in Nigeria, explaining the issues regarding insecurity in his state.

So, its on the record that I had an interface with the American ambassador to let him know that both in Nigeria, particularly in Benue State, there is no genocide, unless its my description, and the United Nations description of a genocide does not fit within the parameters.

Since 2009, Benue State has faced security challenges resulting in mass killings different communities in the state. According to Armed Conflict Event and Location Data (ACLED), more than 800 people were killed and nearly 400 others were kidnapped in the state in the last two years.

On 14 June, a series of well-organised, precise and synchronised attacks were inflicted on the people of Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area (LGA), killing over 100 persons.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned a call for foreign intervention in Nigeria made by the new National Chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Tanimu Turaki.

The APC described the appeal as reckless, unpatriotic, and a dangerous threat to national sovereignty, in a blistering press statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the partys National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka.

Mr Turaki, while speaking to journalists at the PDP national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday, pleaded with President Trump to intervene in Nigeria to rescue its democracy. He cited the ongoing crisis within his party and what he described as the need to protect Nigerians from alleged Christian genocide and safeguard democracy.

I want to call on President Trump. What is at stake is not just genocide against Christians; he should come and save democracy in Nigeria. Democracy is under threat. I am calling on all other developed nations, all advanced democracies, come and save Nigeria, come and save democracy, he said.

The APC dismissed the appeal as a desperate attempt to attract international attention amid Mr Turakis struggle to manage his partys internal divisions.

For a man declared National Chairman barely 72 hours ago by a faction of his deeply fractured party, Turaki looked and sounded desperate, at his wits end, confused, incoherent, and grossly lacking in stamina and capacity to manage his partys crisis, Mr Morka said.

In the statement, the APC argued that Mr Turakis first official act as PDP factional chairman should have been focused on peace-building and reconciliation within his party, rather than seeking foreign intervention.

Nigerians expected that Turaki would set himself on an urgent peace-building mission to bring his partys warring factions together in dialogue towards finding possible pathways to peace and reconciliation.

Instead, Turakis first official act as factional chairman was his call for foreign invasion of Nigeria as a solution to the self-inflicted internal crisis of his PDP. That is as shameless as it is a dangerous threat to national security and sovereignty, it read.

The APC further contended that during the PDPs 16 years in power at the federal level, no similar calls for foreign intervention were made to resolve internal party disputes.

Turakis call is not only an admission of the PDPs incapacity to manage its internal contradictions; it must be taken as a final certification of the PDPs demise, the statement added.

The Christian genocide controversy

Mr Turakis appeal referred to alleged Christian genocide in Nigeria, a term often used to describe recurrent attacks on Christian communities, particularly in the North and Middle Belt. These attacks, which include killings, abductions, and destruction of property, are frequently linked to armed groups such as Boko Haram and Fulani extremist militias.

While the situation has drawn attention from human rights groups and some international observers, the APC described Mr Turakis framing of the issue as politically motivated and exaggerated.

The US President, Donald Trump, also designated Nigeria as a Country of Particular Concern, a status reserved for nations that are engaged in or tolerate severe violations of religious freedom under the International Religious Freedom Act.

READ ALSO: Oluremi Tinubu speaks on Kebbi schoolgirls abduction

According to the APC, using claims of religious persecution to justify foreign intervention is dangerous and unpatriotic, as it undermines Nigerias sovereignty and national security.

The ruling urged Nigerians to disregard what it described as a distraction from the PDPs internal failings and reaffirmed its support for the party and President Bola Tinubu. The statement also called on the international community to dismiss Mr Turakis appeal as a political ploy rather than a genuine humanitarian concern.

The heightened desperation of the PDP and other opposition leaders is now clear for all to see. Turakis call shows how far they are willing to go, even to the extent of actively seeking the destructive intervention of foreign powers on Nigerian soil to serve their sinister political agenda, the statement said.

The APC called on Nigerians to remain steadfast in support of the ruling party and the Tinubu administrations agenda to build progress and prosperity in all areas of our national life.
Alwan Hassan, a chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC), who alleged that senators received a $10 million bribe to delay the confirmation of Abdullahi Ramat as chairperson of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has retracted the accusation.

Mr Hassan, an APC stalwart from Kano State, said he made the allegation based on claims he heard while trying to understand why the Senate had yet to confirm the nominee.

He apologised to the Senate leadership at a press briefing in Abuja on Tuesday.

In the course of that advocacy, I granted interviews in which I made disparaging remarks about the Nigerian Senate, particularly the Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, and the Deputy Senate President, Senator Barau Jibrin. I also referenced a claim alleging that they received $10 million in bribes to stall Engr. Ramats confirmation.

That allegation came from conversations I had while trying to understand the issues. I have since come to realise that the claim was not only untrue, but unfair and uncharitable to both the National Assembly and its leadership. I therefore retract that statement fully and unreservedly, and I apologise to the National Assembly and its leadership for those accusations, he said.

His retraction comes after his arrest and detention by the police over the allegation. Though the duration of his detention was unclear, PREMIUM TIMES learnt that influential individuals intervened to secure his release.

A few weeks ago, Mr Hassan had told journalists that some senators received $10 million to block Mr Ramats confirmation as NERC chair.

Mr Ramat has been awaiting confirmation for over a month after his nomination by President Bola Tinubu, who forwarded his name to the Senate for screening.

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, read the presidents request on 7 October and referred it to the Senate Committee on Power. The committee, chaired by Enyinnaya Abaribe (APGA, Abia South), has since screened the nominee.

Last Tuesday, a group of northern youth staged a protest at the entrance of the National Assembly to demand the confirmation of the nominee.

Amidst the bribery allegation, the Senate Spokesperson, Yemi Adaramodu, explained that the delay was due to multiple petitions filed against the nominee.

Appeal for confirmation

After tendering his apology, Mr Hassan again urged the Senate to confirm the nominee, stressing Mr Ramats competence.

I understand the seriousness of governance, particularly the critical role the parliament plays in our democracy. I do not take that role for granted. And it is precisely because of that respect that I once again, like Oliver Twist, appealhumbly and sincerelyto the good conscience of our distinguished National Assembly to please take a second look at the case of Engr. Ramat Abdullahi and confirm him. I genuinely believe he is a worthy leader who can help transform the regulation of Nigerias energy sector.

Once again, I extend my sincere apologies to anyone who may have been concerned about the intensity of my advocacy for Engr. Ramat. My lifelong commitment to causes I believe in is well known, but this experience has reinforced the importance of ensuring that such commitment is always expressed with full regard for due process and regard for our institutions. I remain firmly committed to championing what I believe is rightconstructively, responsibly, and in a manner that strengthens our democratic values.
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has postponed its planned reception for the Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, in the wake of renewed security breaches, including the latest abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.

The event, initially scheduled for Wednesday, 19 November, was deferred as a mark of respect for members of the armed forces and civilians recently killed in terrorist attacks, as well as in solidarity with families affected by a series of abductions in the North-west.

The decision also comes barely 24 hours after terrorists on Monday midnight abducted at least 25 schoolgirls from Maga Comprehensive Girls Secondary School in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.

The terrorists also killed a teacher, Hassan Makuku, during the invasion.

In a statement signed by the National Publicity Secretary of the APC, Felix Morka, the governing party said the decision reflects its desire to honour the sacrifices of security personnel who put their lives on the line in defence of our liberty and security.

The APC expressed deep sympathy to families mourning loved ones lost in the recent violence and offered prayers for the safe return of the schoolgirls taken from their homes and classrooms by what it described as forces of evil.

The party reaffirmed the resolve of President Bola Tinubus administration to intensify ongoing operations against insurgents and bandits across the country, insisting that those responsible for the attacks will be brought to justice.

READ ALSO: APC slams new PDP chairman over call for foreign intervention in Nigeria

A new date for the governors reception will be announced later, the statement added.

Mr Kefas is defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.

Four PDP governors, Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), Peter Mbah (Enugu) and Douye Diri (Bayelsa), had previously decamped to the APC.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has saluted Nigerians, who it said supported it during its clash with a faction of the party at the national secretariat on Tuesday.

Members of the newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the party, led by the National Chairman, Tanimu Turaki, clashed with the faction of the party loyal to the FCT Minister, Nyesom Wike, during a meeting at the national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the police fired teargas in a bid to disperse the supporters of the two groups.

A statement by the new spokesperson for the party, Ini Ememobong, stated that the support shown to the NWC confirmed that the PDP is the party of choice for Nigeria ahead of the 2027 election.

The newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by the National Chairman, Kabiru Turaki, has saluted Nigerians and all members of the party for their solidarity with the party in its struggle against tyranny and the attempt by undemocratic elements to hijack its national secretariat today.

The support, courage and resilience demonstrated by Nigerians as our party resisted and triumphed over state-backed aggression further confirms the PDP as the party of choice for Nigerians as we march to take over power in 2027, the statement said.

Read the full statement below.

PDP Salutes Nigerians for Support in Resisting Attack by Anti-democratic Forces . Petitions International Community

The newly elected National Working Committee (NWC) of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), led by the National Chairman, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki salutes Nigerians and all members of the Party for their solidarity with the PDP in its struggle against tyranny and attempt by undemocratic elements to hijack the Partys National Secretariat today.

The support, courage and resilience demonstrated by Nigerians as our party resisted and triumphed over state-backed aggression further confirms the PDP as the Party of choice for Nigerians as we march to take over power in 2027.

Nigerians celebrated when the National Chairman, accompanied by the Governors of Bauchi and Oyo States, Sen. Bala Mohammed and Engr. Seyi Makinde arrived at the National Secretariat of our Party for the inaugural meeting of the new executive elected at the successful National Convention in Ibadan, Oyo State Capital

However, upon arrival, compromised personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and thugs reportedly recruited by the expelled former National Secretary of the Party, Sen Samuel Anyanwu and apparently endorsed by the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, who was also expelled from our party, barricaded the entrance and attempted to prevent our leaders from accessing the premises.

Without any provocation, they fired tear-gas canisters at the Governors, NWC members, party leaders and peaceful supporters.

This reckless action triggered a stampede and resulted in multiple injuries.

They fired over 200 canisters at unarmed and harmless citizens who had gathered to witness a lawful party meeting.

Despite these acts of aggression, party supporters and Nigerians present, stayed firm and courageous, insisting that the right leadership of the party must be allowed to run the party without external influence.

In the end, they prevailed and the NWC members had access to the National Secretariat.

For the avoidance of doubt, this struggle transcends the PDP. It is about the survival of electoral democracy in Nigeria, a system that depends fundamentally on the existence of a vibrant and independent opposition.

This attack on opposition under the authority of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu constitutes a direct threat to the survival of our democracy.

When opposition is suppressed, the core democratic principle of institutionalised uncertainty disappears, reducing elections to mere uneventful events with predetermined outcomes.

Electoral authoritarianism and expansionist disposition of the ruling party destroyed previous republics, and contemporarily we are witnessing the dangerous return of weak institutions, compromised security agencies, and an over-zealous ruling party in this Republic.

We therefore call on all democracy-loving nations, institutions, and individuals to rise in unison and unequivocally condemn this brazen assault on democratic freedom in Nigeria.

The PDP as the leading opposition party poised to take over power in 2027 remains resolute and unwavering in its commitment to defend our democracy and the wellbeing of all Nigerians.

We urge security agencies not to yield themselves as tools in the hands of oppressors but to protect democracy and ensure security of Nigerians at all times.

They should also focus more on combating insurgency, banditry and widespread insecurity instead of facilitating attacks on opposition parties.

This NWC reassures Nigerians that the PDP will continue to resist every attempt antidemocratic agents set out to derail the party and democracy.

Nigerias democracy must endure.

Signed:

Ini Ememobong, mnipr

National Publicity Secretary

Peoples Democratic Party

18112025
PRESIDENT TINUBU POSTPONES TRIP TO G20 AND AU-EU SUMMITS FOR FURTHER SECURITY BRIEFINGS, DIRECTS MILITARY, POLICE TO DEPLOY MORE MEN TO KWARA

President Bola Tinubu has postponed his scheduled trip to Johannesburg, South Africa and Luanda, Angola, as he awaits further security briefings on the kidnapped Kebbi schoolgirls and the attack on Christ Apostolic Church worshippers in Eruku, Kwara State.

In response to the request by the governor of Kwara State, President Tinubu has ordered the deployment of more security men to Eruku and the entire Ekiti Local Government Area of the state, and directed the police to go after the bandits who attacked worshippers.

President Tinubu was scheduled to leave Abuja today to attend the 20th G20 Summit of leaders in South Africa and thereafter proceed to Luanda to attend the 7th AU-EU Summit.

READ ALSO: Kwara governor seeks more troops as youths block highway over Eruku church attack

Disturbed by the security breaches in Kebbi State and Mondays attack by bandits against worshippers at Christ Apostolic Church, Eruku, President Tinubu decided to suspend his departure.

He now awaits reports from Vice President Kashim Shettima, who paid a sympathy visit to Kebbi on his behalf, as well as reports from the police and the Department of State Services regarding the attack in Kwara.

President Tinubu reiterates his directive to the security agencies to do everything possible to rescue the 24 schoolgirls, abducted by the bandits and bring the girls back home, safe.

Bayo Onanuga

Special Adviser to the President

(Information and Strategy)

November 19, 2025
The group has presented its final report and warned that the far-right leader used the presidential office to promote the cryptocurrency for the benefit of a group with privileged information

The president presumably provided indispensable cooperation for carrying out the scheme, concludes the report by the investigative committee created by the Argentine Congress to analyze the alleged fraud involving the cryptocurrency $Libra and the role of Javier Milei in the events. The document also states that Parliament must evaluate whether the president committed poor performance in the exercise of his duties. Presented on Tuesday in the Chamber of Deputies, the report was drafted by blocs opposed to the far right, following three months of investigation. The governing party questioned the legality of the conclusions but did not submit an alternative statement.

On February 14, Milei published on his social media accounts a call to invest in $Libra, at the exact moment the cryptocurrency was being launched to the market. Along with the link to buy the digital asset, he wrote: This private project will be dedicated to stimulating the growth of the Argentine economy by funding small Argentine businesses and ventures.

Although Milei promoted it as an investment instrument, according to the parliamentary report, $Libra was, in reality, a memecoin previously designed for a rug pull by a group with privileged information. The creators of the cryptocurrency or other related operators bought $Libra at a low price and, after Mileis announcement boosted demand, sold it at a much higher price. The mass sell-off by its main holders caused the value of $Libra to collapse abruptly.

A total of 114,410 virtual wallets suffered losses from the scheme; 498 lost more than $100,000, and 3,144 lost between $10,000 and $100,000, according to the statement endorsed by legislators from Union for the Homeland (a Peronist party), the Workers Left Front, the Civic Coalition, the Radical Civic Union, Encuentro Federal (centrist group), and others. In contrast, 36 virtual wallets each earned more than $1 million.

The committees final report, which exceeds 200 pages, finds that Milei used the presidential office, and that his sister Karina Milei, the presidential chief of staff, facilitated the use of official national government facilities and granted the involved parties access to the president to carry out an act being investigated as an alleged fraud of international scope. The fact that Milei posted on his social media a contract number that was not publicly available [...] strengthens the hypothesis of a prior and direct link with the creators of the cryptocurrency.

Prior to the launch of $Libra, Milei had held meetings with U.S. entrepreneur Hayden Davis, the main creator of the cryptocurrency, and with Singaporean businessman Peh Chyi Haur (alias Julian Peh), another implicated figure. Their relationship was allegedly facilitated by two crypto traders, Mauricio Novelli and Manuel Terrones Godoy, and by Sergio Morales, then an adviser to Argentinas National Securities Commission.

According to the investigative committee, data provided by international cryptocurrency platforms  in the cases where transactions could be traced  confirmed the economic ties and fund transfers between the main individuals involved (Hayden Davis, Mauricio Novelli, Manuel Terrones Godoy, Sergio Morales). For the legislators, there was no valid reason for the 16 meetings [Milei] held with the individuals involved.

The report makes two additional key points. First, it warns that the $Libra case was not an isolated incident, pointing out that in December 2024, a similar financial scheme was recorded involving the digital currency of KIP Protocol [Peh Chyi Haurs company], in which the president also participated by promoting it, along with the other implicated individuals. Second, it notes that in both that earlier case with $KIP and the $Libra case, the president failed to involve state oversight agencies. This reiterated behavior, the document concludes, makes plausible the hypothesis that there was a deliberate intent to evade institutional controls.

Tuesdays meeting of the investigative committee was attended by legislators from Mileis party La Libertad Avanza (Freedom Advances). Although they did not submit an alternative proposal, they rejected the report and argued that the opposition did not secure enough support to move it forward.

Even so, the committee sent its conclusions to the judiciary, which is conducting a long-delayed investigation into the alleged fraud. It also expressed frustration with both the executive and the judicial branch for their lack of cooperation with the investigation. In that regard, the committee announced that it will file complaints against officials who may have failed to fulfill their duties. Its proposal to initiate impeachment proceedings against Milei, in order to assess his possible poor performance, has no chance of advancing in Congress  even less so after December 10, when part of the legislature will be renewed and the far right will gain the seats it won in the recent midterm elections.

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The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Abbas Tajudeen, has declared firm support for a proposed law seeking to guarantee free medical services in government hospitals, tax reliefs, and stipends for senior citizens across the country.

Mr Tajudeen made the commitment on Wednesday while delivering a keynote address at a public hearing on a bill aimed at establishing comprehensive rights for older persons.

The public hearing was organised by the Committee on Women Affairs and Social Development, chaired by Kafilat Ogbara (APC, Lagos).

The legislation seeks to provide health and economic relief, promote social protection, and safeguard the civil rights of the aged.

The speaker noted that traditional family support systems once provided many of these protections but have significantly weakened, leaving older persons increasingly vulnerable to abuse, marginalisation, and deprivation.

He said the proposed law would create a formal, enforceable legal framework to bridge the gap.

He said existing legislation, including the National Senior Citizens Centre Act 2018, has not adequately addressed the distinct needs of older persons. Their rights, he added, are routinely violated by family members, institutions, and society.

Mr Tajudeen said the bill seeks to provide a comprehensive protection for older citizens and ensure that Nigeria fulfils its obligation to protect their welfare.

He explained that while Section 42 of the Constitution protects citizens from discrimination based on religion, race, or gender, it does not cover the specific forms of injustice older persons face solely on account of their age.

He added that the directive principles in Chapter 2 of the Constitution, though laudable, are not enforceable and therefore inadequate for protecting vulnerable elderly citizens.

In sum, current policy and legal frameworks for the protection of old people are either fragmented or incomplete, and mostly cannot be enforced by the courts. This bill not only hopes to address a wider range of issues, including social and economic challenges, but also to provide a legally binding framework for older people, he said.

According to him, the bill provides enforceable rights that would enable older persons to seek remedies in court when their entitlements are breached.

He described the proposed legislation as a progressive step aligning Nigerias social welfare system with contemporary needs.

The bill also makes provisions for free medical care in government hospitals, tax exemptions, stipends for indigent older persons, and safeguards against abandonment and neglect.

Mr Tajudeen said the legislation responds to pressures faced by the aged, including loneliness, joblessness, insecurity, poverty, health challenges, and declining family support.

In her remarks, Ms Ogbara said the bill reflects societys responsibility to ensure that the older population receives dignity, respect, and adequate support.

As we know, older persons often face unique challenges that can affect their health, economic stability, and social engagement. This legislation aims to address these issues head-on by establishing a framework that guarantees their rights and protections, she said.

She added that the bill seeks to secure health and economic relief as fundamental human rights and ensure the protection of the social and civic rights of older persons so that they can contribute meaningfully to society.

The representative of the National Social Investment Programme Agency (NSIPA), Nsikak Okon, called for the harmonisation of the proposed law with the National Senior Citizens Centre Act 2018 to enhance clarity and operational efficiency.

Speaking for the National Pension Commission (PENCOM), Martins Ikagu described the bill as a welcome development that would strengthen Nigerias social security framework.

He, however, proposed amendments to several clauses  2, 3(2), 4(1), 5, 17(1), 30, and 38(2), to ensure accuracy, coherence, and constitutional alignment.

He recommended clearer definitions, including listing relevant MDAs involved in social protection schemes and specifying funding sources for the proposed stipends.

He also advised that participation in a social security scheme should be mandatory for all employed Nigerians, formal and informal, to ensure long-term sustainability.

Mr Ikagu further argued that clause 38(2), which excludes beneficiaries of existing pension and insurance laws from enjoying rights under the bill, contravenes Section 42(1)(b) of the Constitution for its discriminatory nature.

He said, Section 5 on Minimum Wage: The section provides that indigent older persons shall be entitled to at least 25% of the National Minimum Wage as monthly stipends which shall be reviewed by the Federal Government every five years.

We observed that the specific source of funding and custody of the funds to be utilised for the payment of the stipends were not provided. In order to achieve seamless implementation, we recommend that the source of funding and domiciliation of the dedicated funds for payment of the stipends should be determined and codified.

Furthermore, in line with best global practices, we recommend the insertion of a provision that would mandate the participation of Nigerians in both formal and informal employment to some social security scheme, in order to become eligible to access the rights provided under the Bill. This would make the scheme sustainable and reduce the financial burden that would otherwise be placed on the respective tiers of Government pursuant to the Bill.

Section 17(1) on Provision for Accessibility Aids: This clause reads as follows: At public parking lots, suitable spaces shall be Properly Older Persons Rights Bill, 2024 marked and reserved for Older Persons. We observed that the provision is incoherent, possibly due to the inclusion of the highlighted phrase. We therefore recommend that the provision be reviewed for correctness.

Section 30 on Education must be subsidised: This section provides that: The education of special education personnel shall be highly subsidized. We observed that the provision is incoherent and does not focus on older persons as may have been intended. Accordingly, we recommend that the provision be reviewed for contextual correctness.

He said the bill offers rights not currently provided under existing legislation, including priority in queues and emergencies, education opportunities, rebates, and accessibility support, which should not be denied to any category of older persons.

He called for a full review of the clause to make the legislation non-discriminatory and all-embracing.
Four books detailing the interpretation, compliance, and implementation of data privacy laws in Nigeria were unveiled on Tuesday at the Admiralty University of Nigeria, Delta State.

The publications are; Forms and Precedents in Data Privacy Law, A Glossary of Data Privacy and Data Protection, Compendium of Data Privacy Laws in Nigeria, and Readings in Data Privacy and Protection Law (A Bibliography).

They were presented alongside a new data protection website designed to provide access to scholarly articles, book extracts, templates, and drafting tools relevant to Nigerias privacy framework.

Authored by legal scholar and researcher, Pretty Edema, the unveiling ceremony was attended by professors and university administrators who discussed the state of data privacy protection in Nigeria.

Lukman Abdulrauf, who reviewed the books before the audience, stated that the publications bridge the gap created by the scarcity of local literature on Nigerias data protection framework.

Mr Abdulrauf, a visiting professor at the Freiburg Institute of Advanced Studies in Germany, noted that this lack of indigenous resources had previously forced many stakeholders to improvise compliance measures.

He explained that the practical nature of the books will now support clearer understanding and more effective implementation of data protection requirements in the country.

In her opening remarks, Ms Edema described data protection as an emerging field in Nigerias governance system.

As a legal scholar, educator, and digital rights advocate, I have undertaken this project in response to Nigerias evolving digital governance landscape. Data protection remains an emerging field in Nigeria. Following the 2019 introduction of our first omnibus data privacy regulation, the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA) of June 2023 significantly expanded our legal and institutional architecture for privacy protection nationwide, she said.

Explaining the inspiration behind the book, she noted that although recent developments have provided some clarity, they have also exposed the need for structured guidance, practical tools, and accessible learning materials.

While these developments have brought clarity, they have also revealed the urgent need for structured guidance, practical tools, and accessible learning materials.

Many institutions, practitioners, and students continue to grapple with questions of interpretation, compliance, and implementation. It is this gap that my publications and the accompanying website seek to address.

Three major concerns shaped this work: the rising importance of digital rights in our data-driven world; the urgent need for Nigerian legal education to match global developments in privacy, cybersecurity, and information governance; and the desire to support young scholars navigating this new, technical, and often under-resourced field, she added.

The four books

The books collectively provide structured, reliable, and accessible knowledge in data privacy and protection law.

The first book, Forms and Precedents in Data Privacy Law provides practical drafting templates, compliance tools, notices, policies, and agreements tailored to Nigerias regulatory landscape. Referencing the Nigeria Data Protection Act 2025 and the NDP-GAID 2025, it serves lawyers, corporate counsels, compliance officers, academics, researchers, and students.

The book represents more than a collection of templates, it is a comprehensive toolkit for legal excellence in Nigerias new data privacy protection era, combining practical knowledge with the scholarly rigor that Nigerian legal practice demands.

The second book, Glossary of Data Privacy and Protection contains definitions of 1,000 terms, concepts, abbreviations and terminologies in the data privacy and protection field. It is mainly to simply complex technical and legal language in the data privacy field.

It includes examples and references of usage for important terms in data privacy and data protection. It also references the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), the Nigeria Data Protection Act (NDPA), and U.S. privacy laws like the California Consumer Privacy Act (CCPA) in its analysis.

The third book, Compendium of Data Privacy and Protection in Nigeria, consolidates collection of Nigerias major data privacy laws, regulations, directives, and policy instruments.

The book includes notes on key sectoral laws such as the Freedom of Information Act (2011), Childs Rights Act (2003), National Health Act (2004), Evidence Act (2022, as amended), Statistics Act (2007), among others. It offers quick access to Nigerias privacy regulatory framework and serves as an indispensable reference.

The fourth book, Readings in Data Privacy and Protection Law, provides a curated bibliography features 500 scholarly works, articles, policy papers, cases, and technical studies published in 2023 when the NDPA was enacted, up to the present.

It highlights foundational works, landmark cases, research on privacy-enhancing technologies, and analyses of emerging issues such as AI, big data, and cross-border data flows. Organised for both targeted and comprehensive research, it supports advanced scholarship in the field.
As Nigeria joins the global community in marking three decades since the landmark Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, the HID Awolowo Foundation is convening a major national dialogue to examine the state of womens political participation in the country.

A statement signed by Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, Convener and Executive Director of the Foundation, described the event as a moment to reflect on progress, reclaim agency, and reimagine leadership in Nigeria through the eyes of its women.

The event, themed Breaking Barriers or Standing Still? Nigerian Women in Politics 30 Years After Beijing, will hold on Tuesday, 25 November, 2025, at Efunyela Hall, Ikenne, Ogun State, beginning at 9 a.m., as part of activities marking the 110th posthumous birthday of Yeye Oodua, Chief (Mrs.) Hannah Idowu Dideolu Awolowo.

Established in 2016 by Olatokunbo Awolowo Dosumu, the Foundation continues the towering legacy of HID Awolowo (19152015), a formidable businesswoman, political actor, community leader, and iconic matriarch of the Awolowo family. Celebrated for her grace, resilience, and quiet but firm influence in Nigerias political history, HID Awolowo remains a model for generations of women navigating the intersections of leadership, family, and public service.

This years dialogue aims to interrogate the slow pace of progress in womens political representation in Nigeria, despite decades of advocacy and the countrys commitments under the Beijing Platform for Action.

Recent statistics show Nigerian women remain significantly underrepresented in both elective and appointive positions, prompting renewed calls for reforms and stronger institutional support.

The event brings together a distinguished line-up of policymakers, gender advocates, academics, and women leaders.

Daisy Danjuma, former Senator of the Federal Republic and Executive Chairman of South Atlantic Petroleum, will chair the dialogue. The keynote address will be delivered by renowned scholar and gender expert, Olabisi Aina, who is expected to provide a sweeping analysis of Nigerias journey from 1995 to date, highlighting both gains and persistent gaps.

Through a blend of historical reflection, policy analysis, storytelling, and action-oriented conversations, the event will bring together policymakers, academics, activists, and women leaders across generations.

Participants will interrogate why, despite decades of advocacy, Nigerian women remain vastly underrepresented in elective and appointive positions; explore cultural and structural impediments; and spotlight the voices and lived experiences of women who have dared to lead, the statement said.

It added that the conversation will unfold around seven interconnected sub-themes and will be wrapped up with a panel on the way forward.

Areas of focus of the conversation are: Historical and Policy Context: Beijing 95 to Today: Tracking Nigerias Commitments and Compliance; Representation and Reality: Numbers Dont Lie: Why Are Nigerian Women Still Missing in Action?; Barriers and Breakthroughs: The Glass Ceiling and the Iron Fence: Cultural and Structural Barriers to Womens Leadership; Lessons from Elsewhere: Why Have Other Nations Crossed the Threshold?; Women in Power: Lived Experiences: In Her Own Words: Stories from Women Who Led  or Tried To; Youth, Intersectionality, and the Future: Next Gen, New Lens: Young Women and the Future of Political Leadership; Advocacy: Power in Numbers: The Role of Womens Movements, Civil Society Organisations, and Alliances; Action Planning: The Way Forward: Building a New Agenda for Nigerian Women in Politics.

The dialogue, according to the statement, will also feature insights from a diverse panel of high-profile discussants, including: Chantal Fanny, Vice-President of the Senate of Cote dIvoire; Uche Ekwunife, politician, legislator and banker; Hannatu Musa Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture and Creative Economy; and Toyosi Akerele-Ogunsiji, Founder, RISE Networks & RISE Interactive Studios, Africa.

The concluding session, focused on mapping a concrete way forward, will be moderated by Abike Dabiri-Erewa, Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in the Diaspora Commission, former federal lawmaker and widely respected advocate for Nigerians in the diaspora.

Goodwill messages are expected from distinguished personalities, including invited State Governors and the Deputy Governor of Ogun State, Noimot Salako-Oyedele. A special message from UN Women will be delivered by Nyaradzayi Gumbonzvanda, UN Assistant Secretary-General and Deputy Executive Director of UN Women.

According to the Foundation, the 2025 dialogue seeks to move beyond rhetoric toward actionable strategies that deepen womens inclusion in politics, strengthen collaboration across generations, and align national efforts with global commitments on gender equality.

The Dialogue forms part of the Foundations broader mission to advance national development, peace and well-being  values embodied throughout the life of HID Awolowo, one of Nigerias most influential women of the 20th century.
Former staff members of the defunct Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) and its subsidiary, the Nigerian Mobile Telecommunication (M-tel), stormed the Federal Ministry of Finance on Tuesday morning to protest over unpaid pensions and arrears.

The protesters comprise old people aged 65 to 80 years, the majority of whom also told PREMIUM TIMES that they started working at a young age, 18 and 20, said that after being laid off, 25 years after service, they have not been properly renumerated with their entitlement, both arrears and pension, despite promises.

Led by Okey Ifepe, the protesters converged at the entrance of the ministry at 9 a.m., singing solidarity songs and also calling out Wale Edun, the finance minister, for help.

They were also holding several placards with different inscriptions, such as Since 2020, pay us our 12.95% adjustment increase. NITEL?MTEL pensioners are old, weak, and sickly, pay us 35 months pension and areas, ES PTAD, AGF, HMF pay us NITEL-MTEL pensioners 35 months pension and areas, N25,000 palliative not paid (paid  Wale Edun pay us our rights

The majority of the protesters who spoke with this newspaper said they could no longer get a job because they had spent their entire life at the company.

Mohammed Ibrahim, a 65-year-old among the protesters, said, I worked for 25 years, and nothing to show for it, no car, no house, nothing. I spent all my youthful age working for Nigeria, and now that I can not work anymore, I am being denied his benefits

Another protester, Christy Moses, 65, said she started working at 18 but could not afford to take care of her family.

I lost my grown-up son because I could not pay for his hospital bill when he fell sick. He was in his final year in school when he fell sick for three days, but because I could not pay, he died, she said.

Sixty-seven-year-old Phenomena Ijeoma added that she has not been able to go for the extensive care needed for her hypertensive illness, which gradually affected her legs and back. Because of this, she is unable to work and has continued to feed on Gods grace.

Sickness has pushed me to the tight corner that I am unable to produce anything or work, this is the little thing we are expecting, that if they gave us, we will use to move our lives forward, but up till now, nothing, Mrs Ijeoma lamented

The protesters also stated that they have been writing and sending reports to the authorities multiple times, but have been ignored.

We have written and written, but nothing has been done. We have written letters to the Pension Transitional Arrangement Directorate PTAD in which they referred us back to the Ministry of Finance, and the Ministry also referred us back to PTAD. That has been going on for a while now, but we are tired, another protester, Olayinka Makinwa, added.

The leader of the protest, Mr Ifepe, stated that every other defunct agency under the same Defined Benefits Scheme, including New Nigerian Newspapers, NICON Insurance, Nigeria Reinsurance, Delta Steel, and NNSL, has been fully settled. Only NITELMTEL pensioners remain unpaid.

The laid-off pensioners of NITEL-MTEL have not received their pensions for 35 months in arrears. They were excluded from the N32,000 pension increase, as well as outstanding arrears of 12.95 per cent (2020) and 10.66 per cent (2015) pension increases. Release of N 25,000 palliative, verified death benefits and pending payroll.

We are not asking for favours. We are demanding what is rightfully ours, said a spokesperson for the pensioners. Every day you delay, a pensioner dies quietly. Every month you postpone justice, a widow sleeps hungry.

We also lost two members. One died yesterday, and the other one died last Friday.

So we ask today, in the name of justice and humanity, what is our crime? Why should those who served this nation be treated with so much cruelty? Many pensioners sleep on church benches. Many depend on neighbours to eat. Widows cry at night because there is no money for medicine or food. This is not statistics, this is suffering. This is death, he added.

NITEL-MTEL

NITEL-MTEL was a Nigerian former Telecommunications company that provided public telecommunication services in Nigeria, including telephone, telex, telegram, fax, and satellite services.

After its privatisation, the brand was relaunched as ntel, a mobile network operator focusing on modern mobile and internet services, such as 4G LTE and Wi-Fi.

According to reports, in 2006, NITEL staff were laid off when the company was privatised and restructured by Transcorp, with approximately 7,000 out of 11,000 staff members disengaged.

The Nigerian government had privatised NITEL due to inefficiency, mismanagement, and huge debts. The layoffs were part of Transcorps efforts to streamline the company and reduce its wage bill, but the process was controversial, with many workers not receiving immediate severance packages.

Protesters demands

Protesters are demanding payment of 35 months of pensions and an increment of pension to N32,000 monthly.

According to Mr Ifepe, the president approved the increment, but they have been excluded from the benefits.

When President Bola Ahmed Tinubu approved the 32,000 increase for all DBS pensioners, it was meant to be a humanitarian relief, not selective, not discriminatory. Other pensioners received it. NITELMTEL pensioners did not.

How can anyone survive on 14,500, 16,000, or 17,000 a month?. How can a widow eating once a day be told she does not qualify for a relief meant for all?. How can the poorest pensioners be the only ones denied the relief?

This is not fairness. This is not justice. This is deliberate neglect, and it is killing our people. Look at these faces. These are fathers, mothers, grandfathers, grandmothers, people who kept Nigeria functioning long before the oil boom, long before digital technology.

We are old. We are tired. We are suffering. All we ask is to live the rest of our lives with dignity. Do not let hunger and sickness push us to early graves. Do not let the only thing left for you to pay be burial benefits.

Some of our colleagues never made it home. Some were electrocuted high up on cables. Others breathed their last in underground ducts and chambers, places most Nigerians will never see, but where we worked daily with courage. We served Nigeria with loyalty. We deserve to be treated with dignity. He said.

Official response

Addressing all the protesters, the Special Adviser (SA) to the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Finance, Sheu Garbar, stated that none of his principal officers, who were meant to address the demonstrators, were present at the time.

Address all the complaints, demands, grievances, and when you come, get your leaders three or four people who will represent, and I will arrange a meeting with the permanent secretary so that you can discuss, let them see what is on board and how its going to be resolved, and this is a way forward.

However, Mr Okey told PREMIUM TIMES that he does not have hope in such promises as they have proven futile in the past.

I dont have hope in this, because it is not new, we are dying, but every day this is what they tell us, he concluded.
Renowned journalist and PREMIUM TIMES Publisher Dapo Olorunyomi on Tuesday outlined the pros and cons of the incursion of social media platforms and artificial intelligence (AI) into various spheres of human endeavours. He also spotlighted the roles journalists, scholars and policymakers should play to harness the full potentials of the technological platforms and tools for public good.

Mr Olorunyomi stressed the evolving yet fundamental impacts of the technologies on information flow and accuracy, democracy, governance, knowledge base, and mass mobilisation. Beyond that, he said they encode assumptions of what human beings are, while setting off data colonialism concerns.

He gave the remarks while delivering the 2025 Faculty of Arts Distinguished Alumni Lecture at the Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife. The lecture is themed AI, Social Media & the Reconfiguration of Democratic Power in Nigeria.

Certainly media creates knowledge, but in creating knowledge, it also creates power. And that power has implication for how society is managed, he said.

He described the convergence of AI and social media platforms as imprimaturs of the digital age reshaping governance, public perception, and accountability in countries like Nigeria.

Technologys double-edged sword

While acknowledging the opportunities these technologies offer, he cautioned against risks including misinformation, disinformation, and behavioural manipulation driven by algorithms.

He described AI-driven social platforms as a new leviathan, where struggles over authority, knowledge, and legitimacy are constantly renegotiated.

Mr Olorunyomi, a staunch press freedom advocate, pointed out that the electoral and education sectors are key areas that are affected. He explained that social media enables mass mobilisation but also spreads disinformation, while AI expands access to education but risks deepening inequality and reducing learning to technical skills.

Drawing on the perspectives of thinkers such as Amilcar Cabral, Kwesi Wiredu, John Dewey, and Hannah Arendt, he stressed that knowledge must be treated as a public good that fosters judgement, imagination, and ethical citizenship.

He warned that democracy weakens when media ecosystems prioritise speed and virality over accuracy and reasoned debate.

Every day, 27 million Nigerians are using Facebook, or X, with seven to nine million people, Mr Olorunyomi said, noting that platforms now dominate the countrys media landscape.

AI and social media are those artefacts of political intentions and economic logic, not merely expressions of scientific curiosity. They encode assumptions about what human beings are for, whether citizens are agents capable of judgement or data points to be analysed and optimised.

This dynamic has been described as data colonialism, a new form of extraction in which everyday life becomes a resource controlled from elsewhere, he said.

Using the #EndSARS protests as an example, Mr Olorunyomi explained that social media facilitated mobilisation but also exposed Nigeria to manipulation by external actors.

He said political elites now deploy bots, trolls, and AI-generated content to shape narratives, while algorithmic feeds fragment public knowledge and deepen polarisation.

Regulatory safeguards and other recommendations

He called for regulatory safeguards around data protection, content moderation, and AI governance, stressing that regulation must protect citizens without sliding into censorship.

Mr Olorunyomi urged journalists, scholars, policymakers, and citizens to defend knowledge as a practice that promotes human flourishing, and for universities to strengthen cultures of debate, scepticism, and democratic enquiry.

He added that if Nigeria fails to reclaim AI and social media as instruments of agency, these technologies could entrench inequality, weaken public reasoning, and concentrate power in opaque algorithmic systems.

Admonition to n students

Mr Olorunyomi, reflecting on his experience at OAU, encouraged students to pursue knowledge beyond their degrees.

Dont go away with merely your degrees. Take away knowledge that will stand you in good stead in life, he said.

The lecture was part of OAUs first Faculty of Arts Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series for the 202425 academic session, which aims to strengthen ties between the faculty and its alumni while providing a platform for intellectual engagement on national and global issues.

In his opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty of Arts Gbenga Fasiku, apologised for the venue change as a result of other activities on campus.

He also called on alumni to support the plans for a new humanities block with a 500-seat auditorium.

The Distinguished Alumni Lecture Series is organised to connect with our former students, who have excelled in their careers and contributed to national development, the Dean said.

The chairman of the occasion, Idowu Obasa, announced the creation of a 20 million naira seed fund to sustain the lecture series.

Structures, processes, and procedures are what change society. This fund is a start, but every contribution will help move the programme forward, Mr Obasa, Publisher of PM News, said.

The lecture series provides a platform for dialogue and collaboration between the Faculty of Arts, its alumni, and the wider academic and professional community
A United States court has sentenced a 27-year-old Nigerian, Imoleayo Aina, to six years in prison for his role in a sexual extortion scheme that authorities say contributed to the death of a young man in Pennsylvania.

Mr Aina, also known as Alice Dave, was sentenced in October by Judge Joel Slomsky of the Eastern District of Pennsylvania.

He will also serve five years of supervised release and must pay $3,250 in restitution, according to a statement from the US Department of Justice.

Mr Aina and his co-defendant, Samuel Abiodun, were arrested in Nigeria and taken into FBI custody on 31 July 2024 before being extradited to the United States.

A third Nigerian suspect, Afeez Adewale, 25, has also been charged but remains in Nigeria awaiting extradition.

The three were indicted in August 2024.

Guilty pleas and charges

In May, Mr Aina pleaded guilty to cyberstalking, interstate threat to injure reputation, receiving proceeds of extortion, money laundering, conspiracy and wire fraud.

Prosecutors said he played a central role in the scheme, which targeted a young man in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania and led to emotional trauma for the victim and his family.

Mr Abiodun, 26, pleaded guilty in December 2024 to money laundering conspiracy and wire fraud. He was sentenced on 10 June to five years in prison.

Mr Adewale faces charges of money laundering, conspiracy and wire fraud, but has not yet been extradited.

Driving Force Behind the Scheme

US Attorney David Metcalf described Mr Aina as the driving force behind this sextortion scheme, saying the crime left the victim and his family devastated.

The Department of Justice wont just stand by when innocent victims in the U.S. are harmed by criminal scammers overseas, he said.

He said the Department of Justice wont just stand by when innocent victims in the US are harmed by criminal scammers overseas. As this case shows, we can  and we will  find, prosecute, and hold accountable these insidious sextortionists who terrorise people for money.

This case is a powerful reminder of the profound harm sextortion inflicts on young people and their families, and of our unwavering commitment to pursuing those who perpetrate it, said Wayne Jacobs, special agent in charge of the FBIs Philadelphia Field Office.

READ ALSO: Nigerians in US reject American military intervention in Nigeria

This sentence delivers a clear message: whether you are in the United States or operating from abroad, the FBI and our partners will relentlessly pursue you. If you exploit our youth, we will bring you to justice.

The case was investigated by the FBI and the Abington Township Police Department. Prosecutors also acknowledged the support of Nigerian authorities, including Nigerias Attorney General, the Ministry of Justices international cooperation unit, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, in securing the arrests and extraditions.
The National Chairperson of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Kabiru Turaki, says more than 50 canisters of teargas were fired at him, governors, and members of his team as they struggled to access the partys national secretariat on Tuesday.

Mr Turaki, who emerged as chairperson at the partys convention in Ibadan last Saturday, said the situation could have resulted in bloodshed if he and his team had not exercised restraint.

He added that despite the ordeal, he and his team would remain determined to carry out their mandate.

The chairperson stated these while addressing journalists shortly after assuming office and taking his seat at the secretariat.

If we have not exercised restraint, if we have not controlled our members and our leaders, there would have been bloodshed here.

We will have been tear-gassed, and I think more than 50 kinds of canisters of tear gas have been shot at us. But we remain relentless, and will continue to remain relentless, he said.

Mr Turaki, a former special duties minister and a Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) urged PDP members to take note of the developments, warning that he would not hesitate to call on all party members across the country to converge on the secretariat if the situation persists.

So I call on all members of PDP all over this country to know that this is what is happening, and should this continue, I will not hesitate to call all members of PDP in Nigeria to assemble here, he added.

Mr Turakis emergence as Chairperson at the Ibadan convention was rejected by a faction loyal to the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike, which argued that the convention violated an existing court order restraining it.

The Wike-backed faction, which also has the embattled National Secretary of the PDP, Samuel Anyanwu, as a member, recently appointed Mohammed Abdulrahman as its own chairperson.

During the Ibadan convention, the party expelled Messrs Wike, Anyanwu, Abdulrahman and eight other members of the Wike-led faction over allegations of anti-party activities.

PREMIUM TIMES earlier reported the likelihood of a confrontation between Mr Turakis leadership and the Wike-aligned faction, as both groups scheduled meetings at the same venue, the PDP national secretariat, on Tuesday.

The two sides eventually clashed while attempting to access the NEC hall. Police fired teargas to prevent some officials from entering the premises.

Amid the chaos, Mr Wike, Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, and Chairman of the PDP Governors Forum, Bala Mohammed, engaged in a heated verbal exchange. The two governors asked the FCT Commissioner of Police, Dantawaye Miller, to order Mr Wike out of the secretariat, insisting he is no longer a member of the PDP.

As the argument continued, police fired teargas both inside and outside the secretariat.

Turaki assumes office

Mr Turaki said his team has successfully taken control of the secretariat from the faction expelled at the partys Ibadan convention.

For the past seven hours, Nigerians have been living witnesses to the struggle weve been engaged in with those relegated members of our party that were expelled in our national convention in Ibadan. They came here with armed thugs, like we predicted, to disrupt our meetings, but, God so kind, we were able to curtail them effectively.

Now, we have driven them out of the secretariat, and as you can see, I have entered my office, and I have assumed leadership as the elected national chairman. For this struggle, no doubt, is a continuing one. We will continue, we will remain relentless, we shall continue to fight, he added.

Call on Tinubu to caution Wike

Mr Turaki called on President Bola Tinubu to caution Mr Wike, accusing him of leading armed thugs to cause chaos at the party secretariat.

But I want to call on the president. If theres anybody who wants peace in any given society, it should be the leadership. The president should call his minister to order. The kind of conduct that the Minister of the FCT had gotten himself engaged in this morning, leading to this afternoon, is unbecoming.

How can a serving minister lead thugs to come and disrupt a legally arranged meeting? The meeting, respectively, notices have been given to the police and other security agencies.

Appeal to the international community

The PDP chairperson also appealed to the international community to intervene, saying Nigerias democracy is under threat.

I want to call, once again, on the international community, youve seen what is happening. Youve seen what is happening. Youve seen the attempts that are now openly being made to destroy and stifle democracy. We will defend democracy. We shall continue to act as defenders of democracy. And like Ive said, we are prepared to lay down our lives for the purpose of watering and nurturing this nascent democracy that our forefathers had fought arduously to give us, he said.

READ ALSO: APC slams new PDP chairman over call for foreign intervention in Nigeria

Mr Turaki commended party members and leaders for their composure despite the heavy use of teargas by security operatives.

I would therefore want to commend the resilience of our members. I want to thank our leaders for refusing to be provoked in spite of the high amount of provocation. This shows that we in PDP are peace-loving people, and will continue to be peace-loving and law-abiding.

But that does not mean that if weve seen that people are going to touch us, are going to touch our integrity, are going to touch our lives, that we will not hesitate to take advantage of the constitutional rights that we have, he said.
The Chairman of the House Committee on Nutrition and Food Security, Chike Okafor, has warned that a bench warrant of arrest may be issued against the Managing Director of the Bank of Agriculture (BOA), Ayo Sontinrin, and the Director-General of the Agricultural Research Council of Nigeria (ARCN), Abubakar Dabban, if they fail to appear before the committee.

The threat was issued on Tuesday during the resumed investigative hearing into the alleged misuse of N1.2 trillion allocated for agricultural intervention programmes.

Mr Okafor said the committee would not hesitate to invoke all parliamentary powers to compel attendance, describing the move as necessary to safeguard public interest.

The investigation began following a resolution by the House on 1 July, mandating its Committees on Nutrition and Food Security; Agricultural Production, Services, Colleges and Institutions; and Finance to probe the alleged mismanagement of government interventions and agricultural funding.

This probe covers departments, agencies, schemes, and programmes of the federal government outside the Federal Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security.

At the investigative hearing, Mr Okafor stated that some organisations had cooperated fully with the committee by honouring invitations, opening their books, and providing verifiable evidence demonstrating no involvement in the misuse of funds

Such organisations will be commended in the committees report to the House, at the end of the investigations, he said.

However, the committee expressed concern over the Bank of Agriculture, ARCN, and the National Agricultural Land Development Authority (NALDA), which have largely failed to respond to repeated invitations.

The BOA cited the assumption of duty of the new managing director as an excuse for non-attendance, a justification the committee rejected.

This is totally unacceptable. The Bank of Agriculture only responded with the excuse of having a new managing director and I wrote back to the MD to say that the bank is an ongoing concern, that having a new MD is not enough reason not to honour the invitation of this panel, Mr Okafor said.

The committee also scrutinised the operations of Prospect Micro-Finance Bank.

The banks Managing Director, Isaac Inwang, informed the committee that N14.6 million was disbursed to 30 poultry farmers under the Anchor Borrower Programme, of which N6 million was recovered and retained by the bank pending further instructions from CBN.

The CBN, however, disputed this claim, stating that N15.5 million had been provided for disbursement.

Deputy Director Hassan Tom told the committee that the bank violated regulations requiring that recovered funds be remitted to CBN within a specified period, noting that the funds were held for more than three years.

Mr Okafor directed the Micro-Finance Bank to submit all relevant documents by Wednesday, 19 November, and to be ready to answer follow-up questions concerning the discrepancies highlighted by CBN.

The committee also cleared the National Agricultural Seeds Council (NASC) of any wrongdoing.

Its Director-General, Fatuhu Muhammed, confirmed that the agency had not participated in the implementation of the Anchor Borrower Programme, a position verified by the CBN.

Mr Okafor commended Mr Muhammed for appearing before the committee, noting his respect for the authority as a former House member.
The Kwara State Police Command has confirmed an attack on Eruku, a town in Ekiti Local Government Area, saying two people were killed and a vigilante member injured during the incident on Tuesday evening.

The commands spokesperson, Adetoun Ejire-Adeyemi, said in a statement that the divisional police officer in Eruku and his team, supported by local vigilantes, moved toward the outskirts of the town after hearing gunfire around 6 p.m. She said the response forced the attackers to retreat into the bush.

According to the statement, a man identified as Aderemi was later found dead inside the Christ Apostolic Church, Oke Isegun. Another victim, Tunde Asaba Ajayi, was discovered in the bush with fatal gunshot wounds. A vigilante member, Segun Alaja, sustained injuries and was taken to ECWA Hospital in Eruku for treatment.

Mrs Ejire-Adeyemi said the Commissioner of Police, Adekimi Ojo, commended the joint security response and assured residents that operations would continue until the attackers are apprehended. She said further details would be released as investigations progress.

Residents of Eruku told reporters that the attackers stormed the church, firing shots that sent worshippers running.

Several people were reportedly seized and taken away through bush paths linking the town to neighbouring communities, though security officials have not confirmed the abductions.

Broader insecurity grips Kwara North

The incident in Eruku adds to the growing unease across communities in Kwaras southern and northern districts, where repeated attacks have displaced families and disrupted farming and trade.

Three villagers are still being held after armed groups raided Ndanakun, a settlement in Patigi Local Government Area.

Residents fled the community two weeks ago following sustained attacks and heavy ransom demands.

A youth leader who visited the deserted village said no resident had returned to sleep there, adding that many now move only in daylight because they fear renewed raids.

Other communities have faced similar assaults. In Rogun, Kpada District of Patigi, two security operatives were killed on Sunday night when gunmen attacked a police outpost.

The attack forced families to flee into surrounding bushes. Days earlier, two senior chiefs were abducted in Oreke, Ifelodun Local Government Area, triggering another round of displacement.

The police have reported isolated gains, including an operation last week in Adekanbi, Moro Local Government Area, where officers and vigilantes killed a suspected bandit and recovered a rifle and thirty-two rounds of ammunition.

READ ALSO: Three villagers still held as bandits sack Kwara community

The command said the operation was part of ongoing efforts to check criminal activity in known flashpoints.

Despite these actions, residents in Patigi, Ifelodun and parts of Moro say fear remains widespread due to the absence of permanent security deployment in remote villages.

As of Tuesday night, police authorities had not provided updates on those reportedly taken during the Eruku attack or on the condition of abducted villagers in earlier incidents.
The Publisher of PREMIUM TIMES, Dapo Olorunyomi, has called for a concerted effort to address the crisis of knowledge created by Artificial Intelligence (AI) and social media algorithms, which threatens to undermine Nigerias fragile civic space.

Mr Olorunyomi said the social media algorithms, which determine what many citizens see long before they choose to see it, are actively transforming the way in which democratic power is organised in Nigeria.

The urgent task before Nigeria is to ensure that this transformation bends towards freedom, justice and a more thoughtful public life, he said.

Mr Olorunyomi, who doubles as the Chief Executive Officer of the Centre for Journalism Innovation and Development (CJID), stated this on Tuesday while delivering a lecture on AI, Social Media and the Reconfiguration of Democratic Power in Nigeria at the Faculty of Arts Alumni Lecture, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

In his opening remarks, the Dean of the Faculty, Gbenga Fasiku, a professor, said the Alumni Lecture Series was designed to strengthen ties between the faculty and its alumni who have excelled in their chosen paths and contributed to national development.

AI, social medias multifaceted transformation

Mr Olorunyomi, an alumnus of the faculty, said AI and social media have become the new power reorganising democratic power in Nigeria by reconfiguring the conditions under which knowledge perception and political action are formed.

He said the transformation cut across several spheres of the nations democratic institutions.

Electoral commissions must now manage not only the physical polling process but also the digital information environment. Courts confront new questions about online speech and evidence. Political parties organise around war rooms that monitor online sentiments in real time, he said.

He warned against leaving decisions on governing the space to engineers, corporations and politicians alone.

It must involve journalists, scholars, teachers, activists, policy makers and citizens committed to defending knowledge as a practice of human flourishing, he said.

If we can reclaim AI and social media as instruments of agency and engines of manipulation, they may yet strengthen Nigerian democracy by expanding participation, deepening accountability and enabling new forms of solidarity.

If we fail, these same technologies will entrench inequality, hollow out public reasoning and concentrate power in opaque government and corporate hands, he added.

He explained that power flows through the ability to shape communication networks and to influence the cultural codes through which people interpret reality.

This, he said, is visible in how electoral campaigns are not only held through rallies and traditional media but through targeted messaging on social media platforms like Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and X.

Protest movements, for instance, gain extraordinary momentum by leveraging digital networks, but also struggle with fragmentation and disinformation that spreads through the same channels, he added.

He, however, expressed worry that academic and policy analysis still treat media as secondary to real politics.

We have been slower to grasp that in a network society, politics itself is increasingly conducted through the programming and contestation of digital publication networks, he said.

The other side of Social Media

Mr Olorunyomi said AI and social media have helped Nigerian journalists and newsrooms to deploy Open Source Intelligence (OSINT) tools like satellite imagery and data analysis to challenge official narratives, counter disinformation, and hold power to account.

But on the other hand, the same technological infrastructure has transformed media practice in ways that threaten its civic mission, he said.

Attention-driven advertising models reward speed and outrage; algorithmic curation determines what many citizens see long before they choose to see it.

He said AI-driven social media platforms encourage rapid sharing, short attention spans, and continuous engagement.

This favour of viral sensations, he noted, can drown out careful reasoning,

As thought accelerates, the capacity for sustained reflection and careful judgement diminishes, he said.

For a democracy like Nigeria, already strained by economic hardship, institutional fragility, and deep social cleavages, this acceleration has serious implications. It can render politics more volatile, intensify ethnic and religious polarisation, and create incentives for political actors to govern by spectacle rather than by policy.

When Social Media becomes The Media

Mr Olorunyomi noted that the media today are the social media platforms that serve as the primary platforms where citizens encounter public issues and form opinions.

READ ALSO: Dapo Olorunyomi to deliver lecture on Journalism in the Digital and Democratic Era

The biggest newsroom, the most influential newsroom in Nigeria today, sadly, is not Nigerian newspapers or radio stations. Its Facebook. Every day, 27 million Nigerians are knocking gear or X with seven to nine million people, he said.

He argued that the survival of democracy hinges on the quality of knowledge practices that sustain public life.

He also expressed worry that the quality of knowledge appears to be continuously watered down by the social media algorithm that favours sensationalism over nuance.

By structuring visibility, shaping attention and mediating knowledge, AI-driven platforms influence who can participate in public life, what kinds of claims gain traction and how citizens form judgments, he said.

He, therefore, called on the media to harness new tools to support public accountability and informed citizenship, and to resist becoming institutions that undermine reflection and democratic responsibility.

He warned against the media allowing the push for engagement to erode editorial judgment.

Mr Olorunyomi also called on media institutions to see themselves as custodians of meaning and stewards of the conditions under which public judgment can occur.
The reversal is striking. Gustavo Petro, the first leftist president of contemporary Colombia, has closed ranks in defense of the type of military operations he used to condemn in the past, when he was a member of the opposition. To say that the bombings should stop during offensive action by drug traffickers is to invite them to recruit more children, he wrote on his social media accounts this Tuesday, dismissing the message from the Ombudswoman, Iris Marin, who had publicly asked him to suspend the strikes and reassess the situation. I reiterate that we have not violated IHL [International Humanitarian Law] in the bombings I ordered. To say that the bombings should stop when we are operating within IHL is incredibly naive, the president insisted on X, his preferred media outlet. He had previously conceded that bombings always carry a risk, but that he had decided to accept it.

A total of 15 minors have died in military operations carried out by the Armed Forces between August and November in the departments of Guaviare, Amazonas, and Arauca, the National Institute of Legal Medicine confirmed on Monday. Specifically, the deaths of seven minors in Guaviare on November 10, in what is now considered the worst bombing of the Petro era, sparked a heated public debate on human rights amidst a complex security crisis.

Petros predecessor, the conservative Ivan Duque, approved a strike in 2019 in a rural area of the Caqueta department, which he initially described as an impeccable operation, a demonstration of heroism and coordination. Supported by forensic reports, Senator Roy Barreras  then in the opposition, now a presidential candidate  accused the minister of defense at the time, Guillermo Botero, of concealing the deaths of seven minors in that military action. The barrage of accusations ultimately cost him his position, as he resigned in the face of the imminent approval of a no-confidence vote in Congress.

If the government knew there were minors there before the bombing in Caqueta, we are dealing with a war crime, that is, a crime against humanity, stated Petro, then a senator, at the time. In the final stretch of the Duque administration, scandals involving the deaths of minors in bombings resurfaced. His last defense minister, Diego Molano, even referred to those victims of forced recruitment as war machines.

Camp of the FARC dissidents bombed by the Colombian Army on March 2, 2021 in the municipality of Calamar, Guaviare. Mauricio Duenas Castaneda ((EPA) EFE)

In his three years in power, Petro has adopted several security policies he once criticized. Air strikes are one of them. Among the early announcements by Ivan Velasquez, his first minister of defense, was the suspension of strikes on camps belonging to illegal groups where minors might be present. This measure severely restricted such attacks, given that the recruitment of minors is a constant practice among the various armed groups, including the so-called dissidents of the now-defunct FARC guerrillas; the Gulf Clan, the countrys largest drug trafficking organization; and the ELN, the last remaining armed insurgency.

Military bombings only resurfaced after a Gulf Clan ambush killed four soldiers in Segovia, in northeastern Antioquia, in February 2024. Shortly later, in March, Petro followed through on his threat to relentlessly bomb the largest drug trafficking organization in that same region of Colombia. In 2025, under the new Defense Minister Pedro Sanchez, a retired Air Force general, the government has carried out more than a dozen air strikes, mostly against the dissident faction of Ivan Mordisco, the self-styled Central General Staff or EMC.

Sanchez, who became famous as the special forces general who commanded the search for four Indigenous children lost in the Amazon rainforest, became the first military defense minister since the 1991 Constitution. Faced with the inefficacy of his total peace policy  which sought to negotiate simultaneously with all armed groups  and the deterioration of security, President Petro opted for a pragmatic response that more than one observer considers a step backward.

Laura Bonilla, deputy director of the Peace and Reconciliation Foundation (Pares), believes that Petros turn was cemented when he appointed Pedro Sanchez as his defense minister. He did so fully aware that he would give a more militaristic twist to his entire security policy, the expert points out. The Armed Forces favor air strikes because they dont risk any military casualties, despite the potential consequences for civilians, including children and teenagers, she explains. The president is currently very much committed to that perception, she opines. In this matter, she adds, there is a great deal of electoral calculation involved and an effort by the Armed Forces to show quick and decisive results to the United States at a very delicate moment in relations between two traditional allies.

The reactions keep coming in. A no-confidence vote against Defense Minister Sanchez was filed this Tuesday, with the signatures of several congressmen allied with the government, not just those from the opposition. As I have done in the past, I reiterate my position that actions of this nature are clearly prohibited by humanitarian law, stated Senator Ivan Cepeda, the presidential candidate for the ruling Historical Pact. The death of any child is a tragedy; those of us who are parents know this. And we must combat the recruitment of minors, declared Roy Barreras, who is seeking to challenge him within the so-called Broad Front, the coalition that supports Petro. But a head of state  and I will be  must protect the lives of all, including those of children, soldiers, and all Colombians.

Another candidate from the Broad Front, former interior minister Juan Fernando Cristo, opined that renouncing the use of the states offensive air capacity through bombing is not sensible at this time. The underlying problem, he added, is the surge in the recruitment of minors, with Mordiscos organization being the one that most frequently resorts to this abhorrent violation of all human rights norms and International Humanitarian Law.

Humberto de la Calle, a former peace negotiator with the now-defunct FARC who is often critical of Petro, echoed the presidents sentiments: The big problem is that if the alleged presence of minors leads to the suspension of military action, recruitment will skyrocket. The cure is worse than the disease.

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The House of Representatives on Wednesday debated a motion on the worsening pension crisis affecting retired police officers, following nearly two months of continuous protest by the retirees at the entrance of the National Assembly.

The former officers have accused the National Pension Commission (PENCOM) of violating provisions of the contributory pension scheme and failing to implement a distinct pension structure for the Nigeria Police Force.

The protesters, many of whom served for over 30 years, have been camping at the gate in the rain and sun, holding placards and pleading for legislative intervention.

Lawmakers described the situation as an embarrassment to the nation and a threat to the morale of serving personnel and internal security.

Moving the motion, Jesse Onuakalusi (LP, Lagos) said the Nigerian Police Force, the primary internal security institution, continues to operate under conditions that expose officers to life-threatening risks, yet they retire into poverty because of an unsuitable pension system.

Mr Onuakalusi said retired officers face delayed payments, inadequate lump-sum benefits and irregular monthly stipends that cannot sustain basic living.

He argued that the contributory pension scheme, as administered under the Pension Reform Act 2024, has failed to address the peculiar hazards and conditions of police service.

He noted that other security formations including the armed forces, intelligence agencies and Customs Service already enjoy special pension arrangements, and urged that police officers should not be left behind.

According to him, scores of retired police officers and men have been occupying the entrance of the National Assembly for nearly two months, sleeping in the open and pleading for attention, yet remain unattended to, a situation that bring embarrassment to the nation and call for urgent parliamentary intervention.

Mr Onuakalusi called for urgent action, saying the nations gratitude must be reflected in how it treats those who safeguarded citizens during their active years.

He called on the speaker and the leadership of the House to visit the protesting and police officers currently camping at the National Assembly gate to hear their grievances and assure them that the lower chamber is with them.

Debate

Contributing to the debate, Bamidele Salam (PDP, Osun) said the suffering of retired police officers mirrors a long-standing problem resisted by entrenched interests.

Mr Salam, who disclosed that he grew up in the police barracks as the son of an officer who served for 30 years, said he understood the sacrifices made by the police better than most people.

He recalled that in the Ninth Assembly, when he served as deputy chair of the House Committee on Pensions, lawmakers made a strong push to remove the Police Force from the contributory pension scheme.

A bill to amend the Pension Reform Act was considered critical, but according to him, efforts were frustrated by PENCOM and other vested interests.

But quite unfortunately, there was huge resistance from the establishment, he said. I still ask: what does PENCOM stand to lose if the police are allowed a more suitable pension scheme?

Chairman of the House Committee on Police Affairs, Abubakar Makki (APC, Jigawa), said the pension issue has been before the parliament since previous assemblies but confirmed that substantial progress has been made in the 10th Assembly.

According to him, the police pension amendment bill has already been passed by the House and transmitted to the Senate since 28 October. He said the Senate must now concur for it to move to the presidency for assent.

It is for the Senate now to concur what we submitted to them and take it for assenting to the presidency, he said.

Mr Makki added that he and the Chair of the House Committee on Pensions regularly engage the protesting officers, implying that the motions sponsor may not have interacted with them before raising it.

Chair of the Committee on Pensions, Mohammed Jalo, confirmed that the bill has passed second reading, clause-by-clause consideration and third reading in the House.

He said the officers at the gate may not be protesting against the House but against the Senate and PENCOM, noting that meetings are ongoing between the stakeholders and relevant committees to resolve outstanding issues.

Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over the session, recalled that the bill identified as HB 979 was number two on the transmission list on 28 October, confirming that all legislative work had been completed in the House.

He said the bill has undergone public hearings, debates, and committee of the whole consideration, and urged that the prayers of the motion be amended to reflect the current status of the legislation.

The Chairperson of the Committee on Navy, Yusuf Gagdi (APC, Plateau) advised that the House should amend the prayer instead of stepping down the entire motion, so as not to undermine the pending bill in the Senate.

Following extended debate, Mr Onuakalusi amended his prayer to urge the leadership of the House to interface with the Senate and expedite action on the police pension bill to ensure a lasting solution to the grievances of retired officers.

Mr Kalu, thereafter, referred the amended motion as prayed.

Pension crisis facing retired police officers

The pension dispute dates back several years and stems from the placement of the Nigeria Police Force under the contributory pension scheme, an arrangement many officers argue does not reflect the hazardous and high-risk nature of police service.

In July, PREMIUM TIMES reported how the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, held separate meetings with protesting retirees after they stormed the Force Headquarters and later the National Assembly to demand their entitlements.

It was also revealed that Mr Egbetokun had formally written to the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, urging immediate amendment of the Pension Reform Act to remove the Police Force from the contributory pension scheme, a move the IGP described as crucial to restoring dignity and fairness to officers who risk their lives daily.

Under the current structure, a police officer who retires after 3035 years of service receives a lump-sum payment far below expectations, followed by monthly stipends too small to meet basic living costs.

Delays in processing payments, poor returns on contributed funds and the absence of special compensation for work-related risks have deepened frustrations.

Unlike the Armed Forces, Customs Service and several intelligence agencies which all operate special pension schemes with guaranteed benefits, police officers remain under a structure widely viewed as unfair and unsuitable  the contributory system.

This disparity has left many destitute, with some unable to afford medical care, accommodation or daily expenses.
The National Judicial Institute (NJI) has denied claims that Nigerian judges chorused a political song in praise of President Bola Tinubu at the 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference in Abuja.

The chorus, On your mandate we shall stand, is popular among Mr Tinubus supporters, dating back to his time as Lagos State governor. The presidents followers and admirers often sing the chorus to cheer him and affirm their loyalty to him at political gatherings.

In a statement signed by its Head, Information, Media and Public Relations, Kolade Umoru, on Wednesday, the NJI confirmed that the On your mandate song was played by the Guards Brigade Band as part of ceremonial protocol to usher the president to the podium for his address but was not initiated, requested or endorsed by the judiciary.

The statement noted that the judiciary had no control over the musical selections of the Brigade, which operates under military ceremonial procedures.

It stated that the judges, out of respect to the office of the Nigerian president, rose to their feet as President Tinubu walked to the podium.

No judge in attendance sang or chanted any political song at any point during the programme, Mr Umoru stated, adding that the only song collectively sung at the occasion was the National Anthem.

Judiciary remains strictly non-partisan, deeply committed to constitutional neutrality, and wholly insulated from political activities or symbols of political allegiance, the statement said.

Mr Umoru advised both the media and the public to verify information before sharing it to avoid spreading distorted realities.

The judiciary will continue to uphold its oath of office with dignity, independence, and unwavering fidelity to the Constitution, the statement assured Nigerians.

It continued, The Judiciary remains strictly non-partisan, deeply committed to constitutional neutrality, and wholly insulated from political activities or symbols of political allegiance.

The 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference is a statutory and professional gathering focused on strengthening the justice system and reinforcing public confidence in the Judiciary.

Any attempt to distort the solemnity of the event or attribute political motives to judicial officers is unfortunate, misleading, and a disservice to the public.

The 2025 All Nigeria Judges Conference is a statutory and professional gathering focused on strengthening the justice system and reinforcing public confidence in the Judiciary. Any attempt to distort the solemnity of the event or attribute political motives to judicial officers is unfortunate, misleading, and a disservice to the public.

Any attempt to distort the solemnity of the event or attribute political motives to judicial officers is unfortunate, misleading, and a disservice to the public.

Background

The tune of the On your mandate song was trumpeted as Mr Tinubu rose from his seat at the venue of the event at NJI in Abuja and walked to the podium to declare the All Nigeria Judges Conference open on Monday.

However, there were claims on social media that some judges sang along, setting off a public outcry and raising concerns over the integrity and partisanship of the Nigerian judiciary

Jibrin Okutepa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, described this as a national disgrace.

Similarly, the Secretary-General of the Nigerian League of Columnists, Anthony Kila, criticised the alleged act, calling it shameful.

A check by PREMIUM TIMES showed the music being played and judges standing as the President mounted the stage. However, it is not clear if the judges sang along.

In his address at the event, Mr Tinubu charged judges safeguard their integrity and restore public confidence in the judiciary.
The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) on Wednesday organised a consultative forum to address systemic challenges of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and Forcibly Displaced Persons (FDPs) across 11 states.

The challenges faced by the displaced persons were identified by the Human Rights Monitors (HRM) and Community Protection Action Group (CPAG) coordinated by the NHRC and the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR).

According to the Executive Secretary of the NHRC, Tony Ojukwu, the forum was necessary for deeper inter-agency coordination and collaboration at state and local government levels.

The event was organised by the NHRC in partnership with the UNHCR.

The monitors and action groups identified 865 cases of lack of access to education and 1,283 cases of food and shelter challenges among the IDPs and FDPs.

Other challenges include insecurity, inhumane conditions such as gender-based violence, and unhygienic conditions.

Mr Ojukwu, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, noted that following internal reviews, the data compelled the commission to act beyond enacting frameworks to ensure accountability and transparency.

We must ensure that the cases referred to the Ministries Department and Agencies (MDAs) with a protection mandate or other Law enforcement Agencies (LEAs) are pursued transparently, sending a clear message that violations against FDPs will not go unpunished, he said.

The representative of the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Ussiji Nledana, stressed that protecting the rights of IDPs is a constitutional and moral obligation transcending humanitarian obligation.

The NHRC and UNHCR commenced the project to monitor and respond to realities of IDPs, refugees, asylum seekers and returnees in 11 states.

Most of which are in the Nigerias northern region which has been in the grip of multi-dimensional conflicts and violent criminalities, including terrorism and banditry, for more than a decade.

Only two of the 11 states are in the southern part of the country.

The states are Adamawa, Akwa Ibom (South-south), Benue, Borno, Cross River (South-south), Taraba, Kano, Katsina, Sokoto, Yobe and Zamfara.

According to the statistics presented at the event, Benue State has the highest record of displacements: 39,852.

Land for IDPs

Speaking during the forum, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, disclosed efforts of the government to acquire land for IDP camps with the ancestral homes of the displaced persons in mind.

Just for the record, where we are in the state today is to see how we can get our IDPs relocated closest to their ancestral homes. And the way to do this is, we have already started acquiring portions of land in their primary local government headquarters, he said.

The government (Benue) is giving them (IDPs) 20 per cent of land in their home local government headquarters. So at the end of the day, they now have a choice, and that is to walk back finally and fully into their ancestral homes.

Similarly, the representative of the Attorney General of Akwa Ibom State. Utomobong Inyang, noted that the state government has built 205 compassionate homes.

Ms Inyang described the homes as a shelter initiative targeted at vulnerable individuals and families who lack adequate housing, including those displaced by emergencies.

She noted that the governments targets of 500 homes for the most vulnerable persons and families will be delivered within the next 18 months.

She also said that the Akwa Ibom State government is running an empowerment programme and a food security programme, which distributes free staple food items like rice, beans, and gari, to vulnerable citizens through a food voucher system.

Some representatives from the 11 states were present, including the Executive Secretary of the Kano State Emergency Management Agency, Isyaku Kubarachi. Also present were the representatives of the attorneys general from Taraba, Zamfara and Cross-River States, law enforcement officers, as well as civil society organisations.
Honouring Falola ultimately is the affirmation of the power of scholarship to shape the present, preserve cultural memory, and pave the way for the future. At a time when many of our universities across Africa are still struggling to find a renewed purpose, this serves as a reminder that a universitys most precious resource is not its infrastructure or policies, but the minds it nurtures and the intellectual legacies it preserves. In this way, the conference does both philosophical and political work.

To celebrate a scholar is not simply the recognition of the tick of a clock; it is an occasion for introspection on the institutional, intellectual, and cultural histories that individual represents, as well as those that have shaped them over the years. That Lead City University (LCU), Ibadan, is marking the 73rd birthday of Professor Toyin Falola with a conference is a celebration on many symbolic and material levels. It is a recognition of one of Africas finest historians, and it is an acknowledgment of the production of knowledge as the sine qua non of the Nigerian academy. It is also part of the processes of reshaping how African universities imagine and realise their intellectual goals. This short essay will address the significance of this event from four angles: Falolas contribution to the world of learning, the history of LCU, the politics of academic recognition in Nigeria, and the role of conferences in the conservation and expansion of our intellectual genealogies.

Falolas Intellectual Legacy: A Pan-African Archive of Ideas

Toyin Falolas influence spans African history, African diaspora studies, Yoruba epistemologies, African nationalism, African development studies, African cultural studies, and African futures. The voluminous nature of his productivity  hundreds of books, thousands of essays, the training of hundreds of scholars, and the building of global networks of research, intellectual production, and mentorship  has made him one of the most productive, influential, and transformational African intellectuals in the 20th and 21st centuries.

Celebrating Falola at 73 is, therefore, not just the celebration of a person but the celebration of an intellectual ethos. As a historian of Africa, he places African agency, ideas, voices, and stories at the centre of global intellectual conversations. As a theorist of African futures, he foregrounds the roles of the university, indigenous communities, language, and cultural memory in determining developmental possibilities. As a Yoruba intellectual, he continually draws on the rich well of Yoruba cosmologies to re-imagine global conversations about being, morality, creativity, and community. A conference in his honour is therefore an acknowledgment of a living archive  one that connects the worlds of past Africans, their present struggles, and future aspirations. The significance, thus, lies not only in celebrating Falola but in asserting the continuing value of African intellectual leadership within global academia.

Lead City University and the Symbolism of Institutional Recognition

The decision of Lead City University to celebrate Falola must also be understood as an institutional statement. A young and emerging private university in a country in which public universities of the first generation (such as Ibadan, Ife, Zaria, Nsukka and Lagos, among others) have largely set the terms of reference for the sector, is stating three related things: first, that it is a serious and no-nonsense university by choosing to honour a scholar in the global league, and it therefore locates itself in the cohort of institutions that have, over the years, used such recognition of intellectualism to signal their epistemic seriousness and global status.

Second, the decision to mark Falolas scholarly and intellectual prowess is also an indication of LCUs choice to self-identify with the intellectual history that Falola represents and personifies. Falola is not just an intellectual; he is also a proud symbol of a more confident African intellectual presence in the worlds epistemic order. By choosing to honour Falola, LCU is signalling its desire to align with him and be identified by association with him.

Falolas performance of moral presence and authority within the academy, as in his personal example of mentorship and friendship, his interventions in public debates, his reformist vision of the African university, and the embodied wisdom he exudes, positions him as a scholar whose recognition by a given institution accrues moral significance. By extension, LCUs decision to honour him in this way is an act that is necessarily implicated in the politics of symbolic capital

The third message is in the performance of such an event: by hosting a conference to honour a globally prominent professor, LCU is also staging its own relevance and sophistication in the national and international space, by showing that it has the wherewithal to bring people together, to frame national and public debates, to have a voice and platform on which to say, do and present things. The institutional and the personal, then, are thus related in a process of symbolic mutual referencing. In this, the celebration becomes as much an occasion for LCU to define itself as it is to define Falola. Recognition in the Nigerian academic culture is never neutral. It emerges within complex historical, political, and generational dynamics. Honouring Falola at 73 reflects several symbolic shifts:

a. A celebration of intellectual labour in a challenging environment

Nigerias universities are characterised by underfunding, infrastructural decay, brain drain, and declining morale. Celebrating a scholar who has flourished in such conditions worldwide is reclaiming the value of intellectual work.

b. A handshake between generations

Falola is part of a generation of scholars nurtured during a halcyon period in Nigerian universities, when intellectual creativity flourished in the 1970s and early 1980s. Contemporary institutions are unable to produce anything like this. Honouring him is a handshake between generations  a moment of memory and an act of hope. The politics of moral authority

Falolas performance of moral presence and authority within the academy, as in his personal example of mentorship and friendship, his interventions in public debates, his reformist vision of the African university, and the embodied wisdom he exudes, positions him as a scholar whose recognition by a given institution accrues moral significance. By extension, LCUs decision to honour him in this way is an act that is necessarily implicated in the politics of symbolic capital, one that seeks to identify with Falolas moral capital further to promote the moral authority of the institution itself.

c. Preservation and advancement of the Humanities

Falola highlights the inescapable and significant role of various disciplines in the humanities. Although a Historian of global repute, Falolas boundless epistemic versatility and understanding of core disciplines of the Humanities to analyse existential challenges in contemporary society is unparalleled. The conference draws on this symbol for its theme.

d. Engagement and promotion of interdisciplinary studies in Humanities, Social Science, and STEM

Falolas scholarship represents a multidisciplinary approach as it taps into one or more perspectives and intersections between disciplines in the Arts/Humanities, Social Sciences, and STEM. A considerable portion of his published output celebrates the analysis of complex and interconnected epistemic intersections, and the proposed conference will exemplify this.

The decision of Lead City University to honour Toyin Falola, who will be 73 on 1 January, 2026, with a conference and subsequently publish the experts well-researched works, is an intersection of the histories of ideas, the institutions aspirations, and the politics of culture. It is a tribute to a scholar whose work has become a foundational part of a lineage of African knowledge

Constructing a Living Epistemic Canon

Falola is a living epistemic canon, and Africas most distinguished scholar of the humanities. Conferences perform an essential cultural work in academic circles. They do not merely honour an individual; they create discursive spaces in which ideas are assessed, developed, and canonised. A Falola conference becomes a site for scholars to map his intellectual genealogy, younger scholars to situate their own work vis-a-vis his theoretical approaches, the university to project new research areas and trends born from his intellectual production, and the discipline of African Studies to reassert its own constantly redefining identity

A living epistemic canon has emerged. This living canon simultaneously positions Falola as a referent and the event, a moment of knowledge production and creation. Panel discussions, keynote lectures, and intellectual debates rewrite the parameters of African historiography and cultural studies. The conference becomes a moment of collective intellectual rejuvenation. The decision of Lead City University to honour Toyin Falola, who will be 73 on 1 January, 2026, with a conference and subsequently publish the experts well-researched works, is an intersection of the histories of ideas, the institutions aspirations, and the politics of culture. It is a tribute to a scholar whose work has become a foundational part of a lineage of African knowledge; it is an effort to project the universitys academic brand; it is a recognition of the politics of excellence; and it is the making of a new, yet still-evolving canon of ideas for posterity.

Honouring Falola ultimately is the affirmation of the power of scholarship to shape the present, preserve cultural memory, and pave the way for the future. At a time when many of our universities across Africa are still struggling to find a renewed purpose, this serves as a reminder that a universitys most precious resource is not its infrastructure or policies, but the minds it nurtures and the intellectual legacies it preserves. In this way, the conference does both philosophical and political work.

I consider it a privilege to have been chosen to chair the Organizing Committee in honor of this extraordinary figure.

Samson O. Ijaola is the Head of Department of Religious Studies, Lead City University, Ibadan.
In a tribute he personally signed on Seguns birthday on 6 November, President Tinubu aptly defined Seguns journalism in the following words: As a journalist and one of our nations most-read columnists, you have set the pace for disciplined conversations and informed commentary. You have also remained a significant voice and conscience of many Nigerians through your dispassionate treatises on developments in our nation.

For us, the sudden demise of General Sani Abacha in the early hours of 8 June, 1998 (a Monday) would seem a God-send that effectively cleared the cloud of dark foreboding that had begun to gather the previous day.

Sunday Concords front-page lead that weekend had screamed How Useni and Gwarzo teleguide parties. A transparently suicidal gambit at an illiberal time, when bullets and bombs were being liberally dispensed against dissents in Nigeria.

By conventional wisdom, when fear envelopes the land, certain truths are supposed to be borne only in mind, not told or written in cold print. Those who had dared otherwise under bloodthirsty Abacha, either ended in premature graves, exile or the gulag.

But the Sunday Concord of 7 June, 1998 chose to bait the roaring lion in its very den.

The offending story was based on an exclusive interview that Segun Adeniyi and I conducted with MD Yusuf, the charismatic Fulani prince who had emerged as one of the few men of iron courage, still standing up against Abachas maniacal bid to shed his khaki uniform and transmute into a civilian president. It was facilitated by Yusufs media adviser, Comrade Abdul Okwechime (who unfortunately passed on last year).

Back in the 70s, as police Inspector General, Yusuf identified with Fela and reportedly spurned official prompting to use the police to harass the anti-establishment music icon. (In addition, the media legend, Pa Peter Enahoro (Peter Pan), told me that Yusuf also once dared Obasanjo, as head of state, by releasing his elder brother, Chief Anthony Enahoro, from custody without clearance from the Commander-in-Chief, on the conviction that the charges against the Adolo of Esanland were trumped up.)

By 1998, of the flourishing five fingers of a leprous hand (as inimitable Bola Ige caustically described the five registered parties), only Yusufs Grassroots Democratic Movement (GDM) was proving recalcitrant to Abachas self-perpetuation aspiration.

As we drove out of Yusufs Ikoyi hideout earlier that week, in Seguns jalopy Peugeot 504 car, after the historic interview, our childlike excitement at securing a world exclusive was tempered by a new anxiety about whether our editor, Mr Tunji Bello, would find the courage to run Yusufs fiery words ungarnished and in full.

At a time when virtually all the remaining politicians of note were either keeping a strategic silence in their respective bases or prostituting in Abuja with Abacha, Yusuf voiced what everyone was scared to say in that interview, taking the murderous regime apart. This was that the then FCT Minister, Major General Jeremiah Useni, and the National Security Adviser, Ismaila Gwarzo, were the ones dictating to the other four registered parties to adopt Abacha as the sole presidential candidate, in a poll whose exact date was yet to be announced.

Of course, publishing such an uncomfortable truth when even Abachas own deputy, Oladipo Diya, and several other Generals were on the death row over an alleged coup plot, was like jumping into the lions den. Predictably, Abacha and his death squad were livid at Sunday Concords effrontery. As readers rushed to buy the copies at newsstands across the country that day, word soon reached us from usually reliable security sources, warning us of a coming reprisal.

Then, suddenly, death preempted Abacha.

For Segun, it was obviously yet another close shave with Abachas murder gang. A few months earlier, he was abducted in the dead of the night by armed operatives from the then most dreaded DMI (Directorate of Military Intelligence) from his Surulere, Lagos home. They had scaled the fence, broken the window and whisked Segun away in his pyjamas.

His offence? His uncle, Chief Cornelius Adebayo, a wanted NADECO activist, had sent him a letter from exile. The courier was stopped at the land border, and the epistle was intercepted.

Even more horrifying was Seguns ordeal later at the DMI facility. Left in his nightie all day without food or water, it was already nightfall when the feared lord of the acclaimed torture house, Colonel Frank Omenka, directed the guest to be brought before him. And there was a comical twist to this Stalinist character: an oversized tobacco pipe hung from a corner of his mouth, with bulging eyes peering menacingly over a pair of reading glasses perched precariously on the tip of his nose.

On that fateful day, Omenka did not forget the last rite of his accustomed torture tactics: pulling a loaded pistol and placing it on the table ominously before asking Segun the first question: If you tell me a single lie today, Ill just waste you right away.

The foregoing incidents are recalled today not just to recognise Seguns heroic role in Nigerias democratic journey in the 90s but also as a cautionary reminder to the tribe of overly overexcited online trolls, particularly those probably too young to understand the titanic battle fought to rid this country of military despotism before 1999. At some point in the not-too-distant past, some people put their lives on the line for the freedom of expression which many now sometimes abuse or take for granted.

Soon after Seguns encounter with the DMI, Mr Sam Omatseye, Sunday Concords deputy editor, was similarly flagged by Abachas goons at the Murtala International Airport in Lagos while trying to catch an international flight. Fortuitously, one of the assailants turned out to be a lover of Omatseyes writings in Concord. He took pity on him. So, while others looked away, he smuggled his literary idol to the aircrafts door, beyond the reach of those assigned to capture him. That marked the beginning of Omatseyes subsequent forced exile in the US.

Well, as is often the case, almost thirty years later, we are now celebrating Seguns life at 60, while Omenka is enrolled irreversibly in the nations hall of shame. (In fact, the one-time Pharaoh of DMI reportedly bolted from Nigeria like a rat soon after Abacha died and was last seen in Brazil in a pathetic condition).

In a tribute he personally signed on Seguns birthday on 6 November, President Tinubu aptly defined Seguns journalism in the following words: As a journalist and one of our nations most-read columnists, you have set the pace for disciplined conversations and informed commentary. You have also remained a significant voice and conscience of many Nigerians through your dispassionate treatises on developments in our nation.

I commend your dexterity, brilliance, and knack for excellence, clearly evident in the many best-selling books you have authored. You are one of our nations prolific chroniclers, and the fourth estate of the realm is fortunate to have you as an esteemed member.

Indeed, on a personal note, over the past three decades, life has brought me a circle of friends who have stuck closer than biological brothers. I count Segun among this special clan, which collectively offers me warmth greater than the comfort otherwise provided by all the fabrics of the world, in good and bad times. It was a friendship sown in the Concord newspaper, which has grown into a kinship.

Under Mr Bello as editor, the uncommon chemistry we both shared in Sunday Concord made everyone refer to us as twin brothers, despite the wide age difference. Omatseye found another mischievous alias for us, Passion and Prose.

The only province we both differed incontestably in was OPEC. As a teetotaller, Segun never came close to or dabbled in proceedings that went beyond the beverages meant for very young adolescents.

Comparatively, the 1990s were not the best time to work in Concord, as our publisher, the legendary MKO Abiola, was languishing in Abachas solitary confinement over the June 12 incident.

Aside from a most hazardous working climate then, salaries were no longer regular, unlike the pre-June 12 days when Concord offered arguably the best salaries and working conditions in Nigerias media industry. But Segun, just like several other journalists, remained dedicated and loyal.

When he married in December 1998, for instance, I was his Best Man. Four years later, he was my Best Man, with Festus Keyamo as co-Best Man.

Like a protective elder brother, Segun was also my advocate in amatory affairs for years. He never gave up on me, despite my wandering eyes. Sometimes in 2000, in the year of the new millennium, when a quarrel broke out between me and my love interest at a time, he escorted me on a peace mission after the close of work to LUTH, where the lady was a medical student at the time. It turned out to be an exercise in futility. (This was after his spirited attempt to match-make me with the Best Lady during his wedding in 1998 had ended as another failed project).

At THISDAY, I was also the deputy to Segun, variously as editor of the Saturday and Sunday newspapers between 2000 and 2002. His column comes out on Thursday on the back page, while mine used to appear on Fridays.

Before our paths crossed at Sunday Concord in 1996, Segun started his career at The Guardian six years earlier. Later, he was head-hunted by African Concord to serve as its Abuja bureau chief, after which he was snatched by Mr Bello to be part of his dream team that recalibrated the Sunday title as an unapologetically politically charged tabloid to confront Abacha head on, beginning from 17 November, 1995, when the military de-proscribed Concord, The PUNCH and The Guardian, after a 16-month closure.

Segun only decamped to THISDAY in January 1999, understandably as a newly married man deserving some stability to fully discharge his responsibilities as the de facto and the de jure political/economic head of a young family. He only briefly left THISDAY in 2007 to work as Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to the then newly inaugurated President Umaru YarAdua. He returned to his first love  journalism  after the man died in office on 5 May, 2010.

President Tinubus depiction of Seguns language as accessible also reflects his humanity. A team-player par excellence. The modesty of his taste perhaps logically explains his distaste  if not contempt  for materialism and its exhibition. At the approach of his 60th, he literally bolted from Nigeria with his wife (Tosin) on a Caribbean cruise, to stave off possible pressure to stage an Owambe.

Yet, despite his near ascetic values, Segun is a man incapable of saying no to anyone, even if it means parting with his last kobo. To save him from donating himself into bankruptcy, the family has succeeded in ensuring he does not operate internet banking, fearing that he would empty his bank account to freeloaders or solicitors of the proverbial urgent N2k.

A man of strong Christian faith, I can also attest that Segun is incapable of hate or malice or keeping any secret. Outside journalism and writing, his life is devoted entirely to charity work. Aside from providing mentorship to various youth bodies, he, alongside his wife (Tosin), has run an NGO named the Not Forgotten Initiative (NFI), which provides succour to the needy in Abuja for several years.

Here is wishing Segun, my durable countryman, a happy 60th birthday.

Louis Odion is a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors.
Governor Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State has been selected as part of the delegation to accompany President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the 20th Heads of State and Government Summit of the Group of 20 (G20) in South Africa. The summit, scheduled for 22bd to 23rd November, will include six Nigerian governors as part of the Presidents delegation.

A statement by the Zamfara Governors Spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, revealed that all G20 member states will be represented at the summit. It also noted that the gathering will feature 16 guest countries and six countries representing regional economic communities from Africa, the Caribbean, and East Asia.

The statement said:

Governor Dauda Lawal has been selected as a member of President Bola Ahmed Tinubus delegation for the G20 summit in Johannesburg, South Africa. Other governors in the delegation include those from Osun, Plateau, Gombe, Katsina, Niger, Enugu and Nasarawa States. The leaders summit is the culmination of the G20 process, reflecting all the work done throughout the year through Ministerial Meetings, Working Groups, and Engagement Groups.

Furthermore, the G20 meeting in South Africa will have three sessions during the two-day summit. Discussions will cover a wide range of issues, including trade, development finance, the global debt challenge, climate change, food systems, the just transition, critical minerals, decent work, and artificial intelligence contributions.
General Hydrocarbons Limited (GHL) has begun committal proceedings against senior officials of the Asset Management Corporation of Nigeria (AMCON) and some of the agencys external lawyers for alleged contempt and suppression of material facts before the Federal High Court in Lagos.

The company and its directors accuse the officials of brazen contempt in the face of the court, alleging that AMCON and its legal representatives failed to disclose a subsisting order of the Federal High Court issued by Justice A. Lewis-Allagoa, which had restrained the corporation from appointing or continuing with the appointment of a receiver over GHL.

Despite the restraining order, GHL alleges, AMCON proceeded before Justice Akintayo Aluko to obtain an ex parte order without informing the court that a contrary and earlier orderstill validhad been issued.

GHL also contends that AMCON misrepresented facts when it claimed the existence of an Eligible Bank Asset (EBA) issued to the company. According to GHL, AMCON had only made a part-payment to First Bank of Nigeria (FBN) for the acquisition of the banks EBA, failed to complete the transaction, and therefore never acquired the asset. FBN has reportedly offered to refund AMCONs deposit, as reflected in correspondence and court filings already before the court.

The company argues that instead of pursuing FBN over the incomplete transaction, AMCON has inexplicably attempted to take enforcement steps against GHL.

Based on these alleged violations, Form 48 noticeswarnings on the consequences of disobedience to court ordershave been issued to eight individuals linked to the corporation and its legal team. Those cited include:

1. Dr Bala Bello, Chairman of AMCON

2. Mr Gbenga Alade, Managing Director

3. Mr Adeshola Lamidi, Executive Director

4. Mr Lucky Adaghe, Executive Director

5. Dr Aminu Mukhtar Danamu, Executive Director

6. Mr Oluseyi Akinwunmi, the purported receiver appointed for GHL

7. Mr Bidemi Ademola-Bello, SAN, counsel to AMCON and the MD of AMCON, who was present when Justice Lewis-Allagoa issued the restraining order

8. Mr Ade Adedeji, SAN, whose firm represents AMCON and its managing director

Following an application by GHL, Justice Lewis-Allagoa has ordered substituted service of the contempt processes (Form 49) on all listed individuals. The court directed that they be served via their official email addresses, WhatsApp phone numbers, by delivery at their offices, or through publication in at least two nationally circulated newspapers and other major news platforms.

The commencement of committal proceedings marks an escalation in the legal battle between General Hydrocarbons and AMCON, with the court now set to determine whether the actions of the named officials and lawyers constitute contempt capable of attracting sanctions, including possible committal to prison.

FIND BELOW THE FORM 49 SERVED ON THE EIGHT DEFENDANTS
History was made in Lagos on Tuesday, as 13-year-old Ebunoluwa Seth Oluwatimilehin, of Igando Community Senior High School, Igando, a suburb of Lagos, emerged as the overall winner of 15th UBA Foundation National Essay Competition (NEC), thus becoming the youngest winner in the fifteen years of the competition.

Master Ebunoluwa, a public school student of the school in SS2, also emerged the first male winner in over eight years, as female winners have repeatedly dominated the competition. He clinched the grand prize of N10 million educational grant to be used for his future studies at any African higher institution of his choice.

An elated Ebunoluwa, expressed his joy, stating, I am incredibly grateful and overwhelmed. This competition has shown me that passion and hard work truly pay off. It has been an amazing journey that has deepened my love for writing and expressing my ideas.

The second-place winner, Njoku-Kelechi Emerald of Christian International High School, Owerri, received N7.5 million educational grant, while the third-place prize of N5 million educational grant was awarded to Bayero, Fatima Auwal of Cornerstone Montessori Schools, Gudu, Abuja.

In addition to the monetary grants for the top three winners, all 12 finalists were awarded brand-new laptops and other educational materials to support their academic pursuits.

The 2025 edition got several thousands of entries, with significant participation extending beyond major cities into rural communities across the country.

UBAs Group Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer, Oliver Alawuba, who commended the Foundations 15-year commitment to the initiative, explained the competitions strategic role in reviving a culture of reading and writing among youth.

Emphasising the banks broader mission and the significance of the essay topic, he stated, UBA encourages diversity. Nobody in UBA will ever be judged based on ethnicity, religion, or culture. We see diversity as a strength. In fact, if you get diversity right in Africa, you have gotten the whole world right.

Alawuba praised the finalists for exemplifying this principle in their essays and teaching valuable lessons in building a united capacity.

The Managing Director/CEO, UBA Foundation, Bola Atta, who expressed profound gratitude to all stakeholders, reiterated the importance of education and how it is pivotal to the future of Africa

For 15 years, this initiative has been a cornerstone of our commitment to giving back and empowering the youth. We are investing in the academic future of these brilliant minds and, by extension, in the future of our continent. Education remains the most powerful tool to lift our continent, and we are thrilled to see this programme snowballing across Africa, she stated.

The foundation has a long-standing tradition of philanthropy, with numerous initiatives across Africa aimed at empowering the underprivileged, from educational scholarships and initiatives to healthcare interventions and poverty alleviation programmes.

UBA Foundation, the CSR arm of the UBA Group, is committed to the socio-economic betterment of the communities in which the bank operates, focusing on development in the areas of education, environment, economic empowerment and special projects.
The Zamfara State Government has launched key initiatives to improve the lives of children and vulnerable populations in Zamfara state. The initiatives include a five-year Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) on child nutrition (2025-2030) strategy, and a strategy for implementing the states alternative childcare guidelines.

These efforts aim to enhance child nutrition and ensure effective implementation of the standardized care and protection for children across Zamfara state.

The Deputy Governor, Mani Malam Mummuni on behalf of Governor Dauda Lawal unveiled the strategies in Gusau on Tuesday, alongside UNICEF country representative, Mrs Wafaa Saeed Abdelatef who led her team on a courtesy visit to the Governor.

The strategic documents were developed with UNICEFs support, demonstrating the commitment of Governor Dauda Lawals administration to exploring partnerships toward improving the welfare of children and vulnerable populations in Zamfara state.

While unveiling the documents, the Deputy Governor appreciated UNICEF for being a good partner, reassuring the state governments commitment to providing the enabling environment and institutional support required to ensure meaningful impacts of all joint programmes.

We really value UNICEFs long-standing partnership and commitment to improving the lives of children and vulnerable populations across our state.

Your support has continued to complement our administrations rescue and development agenda, especially in addressing the needs of displaced children, increasing school enrollment, expanding immunization coverage, and improving service delivery in rural areas, Mr Mummuni said.

In his remarks, the Secretary to the Zamfara State Government (SSG), Abubakar Mohammad Nakwada advocated for deeper collaboration with UNICEF on three priority areas to accelerate outcomes for children and women across Zamfara state.

First, is the construction of child-friendly model classrooms built to UNICEFs standard, similar to successful models in countries like Bangladesh.

Secondly, we seek partnership in establishing child-friendly healthcare facilities in each of the three senatorial districts in the state.

Thirdly, we look forward to strengthening evidence-based data generation to improve planning, budgeting and geographical investments in children and women.

One key proposal is the conduct of a state general households survey in the 2026 fiscal year, to generate reliable data that will directly guide public-sector responses and resource allocation, the SSG highlighted.

Earlier, UNICEFs country representative, Mrs Wafaa Saeed commended Governor Lawals administration for the prompt payment of N500 million counter funding to the nutrition program and for its commitment to providing human resources in the health and education sectors, adding that the fund will continue to support the efforts of the state government.

We are here to listen to your priorities and support your efforts.

In Zamfara, the leadership has always paid attention to get the human resources for health and education.

I really want to commend your leadership commitment. This is really great, she applauded.

Additionally, the Zamfara State Government commissioned Sexual Assault Refferal Centre in King Fahad General Hospital Gusau.

The Centre named after the states First Lady, Huriyya Dauda Lawal will provide medical, psycho-social, legal and livelihoods support to the survivors of sexual assault.

The commissioning of the centre demonstrates the commitment of Governor Lawals administration to enhance its response against gender-based violence and support survivors in accessing essential services.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has extended his condolences to the Agbese family over the passing of Dan Ochima Agbese, the veteran journalist, celebrated columnist, and co-founder of Newswatch magazine, who died on Monday at the age of 81. In his condolence message, Governor Radda described the late Agbese as one of Nigerias most distinguished media figures, a man whose mastery of language, commitment to truth, and decades of service helped shape modern journalism in the country.

Dan Agbese was not just a journalist; he was an institution. His pen carried clarity, courage, and conviction. Through satire, commentary, and meticulous writing, he inspired generations and set standards that defined responsible journalism in Nigeria, Mr Radda said. He noted that Agbese, born in Agila in Ado Local Government Area of Benue State, lived a life marked by excellence from the very start, whether as editor of the Nigeria Standard and New Nigerian, as General Manager of Radio Benue, or later as co-founder and Editor-in-Chief of Newswatch, one of the most influential publications in Nigerias media history.

His works reflected discipline, intellect, and an uncommon dedication to national development. Even in his later years, he remained a guiding voice through his weekly columns in Daily Trust and The Guardian. His passing leaves a void that will be difficult to fill, the governor added.

Governor Radda extended his condolences to the Agbese family, especially his wife, Rose, his children and grandchildren, as well as his long-time professional associates Ray Ekpu, Yakubu Muhammed, and Soji Akinrinade, who worked closely with him in the pioneering years of modern investigative journalism. He also commiserated with the wider Nigerian media community, describing Agbeses death as a moment of collective grief for an entire profession that benefitted from his wisdom, courage, and integrity.

He prayed that God grants his family the strength to bear this loss and that the legacy of the Benue-born media icon continues to inspire journalists across the nation. Chief Dan Agbeses legacy will endure, not only in his writings and books but in the countless journalists he mentored and the generations he influenced through his example. May his memory be a blessing to all who cherished him, Governor Radda prayed.
Mexico has dug in its heels against Donald Trumps repeated attempts to intervene in its neighbors territory under the pretext of combating drug trafficking. Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum has patiently rejected, time and again, in a firm but measured tone, the U.S. presidents constant offers for the U.S. military to conduct operations beyond its borders to subdue the drug cartels.

Its not that we dont want support, but not with foreign troops, the president reiterated this Tuesday, recalling that the last time the United States entered Mexico, they took half of the territory. Sheinbaum is hardening her position while continuing to perform diplomatic balancing acts in the face of Trumps attacks, which call into question the Mexican governments security strategy, in what is increasingly looking like an affront to its sovereignty.

Ever since Trump first mentioned sending troops to Mexico during his second presidential campaign, the country has been preparing to counter every hint of interference in its security policy. Even after announcing his intention to seek reelection in 2024, the Republican has repeatedly stated that, if necessary, he would be prepared to send the U.S. military across the border to combat drug cartels. Sheinbaum has consistently countered the U.S. presidents threats. However, Trumps rhetoric has escalated as he intensifies his aggressive foreign policy with extrajudicial attacks on alleged drug boats and flexes his muscles in the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean. These operations have put him at odds with the government of Gustavo Petro in Colombia and have further strained relations with Nicolas Maduro in Venezuela. Now, Mexico must confront the ever-present specter of U.S. interventionism.

To counter her counterparts bluster, Sheinbaum has clung to repeating her solution like a mantra: sovereignty, cooperation, and collaboration. Sheinbaum has agreed to the exchange of intelligence between the two countries to manage joint operations against drug cartels, but she is not willing to relinquish control of operations on Mexican soil.

[Trump] has suggested it on several occasions, saying, We offer you a U.S. military intervention in Mexico, whatever you need to combat the criminal groups. But I have told him every time that we can collaborate, that they can help us with any information they have, but that we operate in our own territory, is the gist of the Mexican presidents reply to Trumps insinuations, which began last February when he declared the cartels terrorist organizations. We will never be subordinate. Mexico is a free, sovereign, and independent country, and we do not accept interference, she said at the time.

However, Trump has not wavered in his offer, which has become a challenge to Sheinbaums composure in the face of the domestic oppositions pressure to allow the United States to address Mexicos security crisis and the growing frustration of a society plagued by violence. At the beginning of the year, Mexicos concessions  sending 10,000 troops to the border to reinforce immigration enforcement and extraditing cartel leader Rafael Caro Quintero  not only quelled the trade war but also temporarily quieted calls for military intervention.

The calm lasted until May, when The Wall Street Journal reported that during a phone call between the two presidents on April 16, Trump pressured Sheinbaum to accept U.S. military assistance and take a harder line in her security policy.

No, President Trump, Sheinbaum stated, reiterating her proposal for a collaborative approach. You in your territory, we in ours. We can share information, but we will never accept the presence of the United States military on our territory, she said.

Trump claimed that the presidents refusal of his assistance was due to her being paralyzed by fear of the drug traffickers who control her country. If Mexico wanted help with the cartels, we would be honored to go in and do it, the Republican leader boasted.

But Sheinbaum refused to engage. Its not worth it, she replied, adding that she did not want to engage in a public spat with the U.S. president. Why create a disagreement? she asked.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubios visit to Mexico in September, which coincided with the start of operations to sink suspected drug-running boats, solidified the bridge of collaboration that Sheinbaum had been building to combat drug trafficking. No government is cooperating more with us than the Mexican government, said Rubio, citing as an example the extradition of 55 high-level Mexican drug traffickers to the U.S.

Since then, Rubio has stepped in to soften Trumps remarks whenever the latter has stirred up the hornets nest of intervention, as happened this Tuesday. When the president declared his willingness to replicate attacks on vessels suspected of carrying drugs with land raids against Mexican cartels, Rubio was quick to tone down his rhetoric. Were willing to provide them any help they want. Obviously they dont want us to take  were not going to take unilateral action or go in and send American forces into Mexico, but we can help them with equipment, with training, with intelligence sharing, with all kinds of things that we could do if they asked for it, Rubio emphasized, stressing that Mexico would first have to formally request that assistance. Sheinbaum has indicated she is willing to accept this type of support.

In her latest rejection of Trumps offer, Sheinbaum expressed her exasperation by bringing up the historical grievance of how Mexico had to cede 55% of its territory 175 years ago following U.S. intervention. While Trump continues to insist that he would be proud to order the U.S. military into Mexico, as the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) has proposed, according to The Washington Post, Sheinbaum has firmly maintained that this possibility does not exist. Analysts support her, asserting that an intervention is still a very distant prospect and would not serve U.S. interests, as Americans do not want to see troops deployed abroad, much less sever relations with their southern neighbor.

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Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has reaffirmed his administrations firm commitment to strengthening the MSME sector and expanding access to finance for small businesses across all 34 local government areas of the state. The governors efforts received national recognition on Monday when he was presented with the SMEDAN Governor of the Year Award for SME Financial Support (North) during the 2025 National MSME Conference held at the Federal Palace Hotel, Lagos.

Governor Radda, was represented by the Deputy Governor, Faruk Lawal Jobe. Mr Jobe described the award as a welcome endorsement of the reforms currently transforming the business environment in Katsina, giving young people, women, and small enterprises greater economic opportunities.

This years conference, themed GROW Nigerian: Building the Future of Innovation, Resilience and Prosperity, brought together senior government officials, development partners, business leaders, and MSME operators from across the country. With more than 5,000 participants and 120 exhibitors, it remains one of the most influential gatherings for enterprise development in Nigeria.

The deputy governor commended SMEDAN and its Director-General, Dr Charles Odii, for providing a platform that continues to expand innovation, partnerships, and financing opportunities for entrepreneurs nationwide. He explained that the honour carries a deeper significance for the administration. He said that while the award reflects what has been achieved within a short time, it also places a greater responsibility on the government to keep moving forward.

This award is not just a recognition of Governor Radda effortsit is a call for us to rededicate ourselves to doing even more for the people of Katsina and for Nigeria, he said. He stated that Governor Radda remains fully committed to securing our communities, supporting our entrepreneurs, and ensuring that government policies bring real improvements to peoples daily lives. He added that the governors vision is anchored on service, accountability, and inclusive growth, and that the administration will continue building an economy where young people, women, and small business owners can stand on their own with dignity.

He noted that one of Governor Raddas earliest economic interventions was the creation of the Katsina State Enterprise Development Agency (KASEDA), which has become the States central institution for MSME empowerment, access to finance, and enterprise growth. According to him, KASEDA has helped build a more transparent and supportive MSME ecosystem, driven by financial inclusion, skills development, and wider market access. This, he said, has reduced barriers for startups, strengthened local industries, and encouraged innovation among young business owners.

Mr Jobe outlined several key initiatives, including the 5 billion Managed Fund created in partnership with the Bank of Industry, which has already provided affordable financing to more than 300 MSMEs across manufacturing, agriculture, fashion, and service sectors. He noted that this fund has become a major catalyst for job creation and productivity in the State.

He also highlighted the States 500 million counterpart contribution that unlocked additional UNDP support for entrepreneurs in the 13 security-affected LGAs, helping vulnerable business owners rebuild their livelihoods. Another 500 million interest-free facility, created with Sterling Bank, is supporting petty traders, artisans, and micro-enterprises who often struggle to access credit through conventional financial institutions.

The deputy governor explained that joint programmes with the Enterprise Development Centre (EDC) have trained over 2,000 youths and women in business management, digital skills, and financial literacy. He added that the State is revitalizing the Industrial Development Centre (IDC) in Tudun Matawalle to expand manufacturing and value-addition opportunities for local producers.

To enhance visibility for small businesses, he said Katsina entrepreneurs are receiving consistent support to participate in national exhibitions and trade fairs, giving them access to larger markets and new partnerships. He shared success stories from the field, including that of a young woman in Daura who expanded her shea-butter business with support from KASEDA and now employs ten additional womenan example of how these interventions create wider community impact.

Mr Jobe assured participants that the administration would continue to deepen reforms, widen financing options, and build more opportunities for entrepreneurs capable of competing locally and internationally. He reaffirmed the States readiness to work closely with SMEDAN, development partners, and the private sector to strengthen Nigerias MSME ecosystem.

Speaking earlier, the Director-General of SMEDAN, Charles Odii, said the conference was designed to chart a future powered by innovation, resilience, and prosperity for Nigerian MSMEs. He emphasised that access to finance remains one of the toughest challenges facing small businesses and announced that pitch competitions at the event would award grants of up to 20 million to outstanding entrepreneurs.

He also stressed the importance of digital capacity for MSMEs and pledged SMEDANs commitment to working with relevant agencies to remove bureaucratic bottlenecks and improve service delivery under the Agencys GROW strategy, which focuses on guidance, resources, opportunities, and workforce development.

Delivering his keynote address, the Chairman of Heirs Holdings and founder of the Tony Elumelu Foundation, Mr Tony Elumelu, highlighted the importance of building systems that help businesses move from survival to stability and long-term success. He noted that many Nigerian entrepreneurs struggle not because their ideas are weak, but because the supporting structures around them are inadequate.

Chairman of Nigerias Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, Taiwo Oyedele, presented the award to Dr Babangida Ruma, who received it on behalf of Governor Radda. Speaking after receiving the award, the Director-General of KASEDA, Babangida Ruma, thanked SMEDAN for recognising Governor Radda strong drive to rebuild the MSME sector. He said no administration in the State has supported small businesses the way Governor Radda has done in just two years.

Mr Ruma noted that the Governors reforms expanded grants, introduced easier loan schemes, strengthened cooperatives, and opened market opportunities for youth and rural entrepreneurs. He described the award as proof that the governors policies are creating real change for the people. He added that Katsina now has one of the most accessible SME support systems in the North.

According to him, KASEDA keeps its doors open to guide businesses on funding, training, and market access. No idea is too small at KASEDA, he said, praising Governor Radda for giving young entrepreneurs the confidence to grow and succeed.

Among those present at the conference were ministers including Mrs Jumoke Oduwole and John Owan Enoh; development partners from GIZ and UNDP; the Executive Chairman of the Federal Inland Revenue Service, Dr Zacch Adedeji; digital industry leaders; MSME operators; and participants from various masterclasses, including a session on content and storytelling led by Folagade Banks.
Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has congratulated His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo, Okukenu IV, the Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland, on the occasion of his 20th coronation anniversary. Oba Gbadebo ascended the throne on 19 November 2005. Governor Abiodun described the royal milestone as a celebration of two decades of purposeful, visionary and selfless leadership that has brought remarkable progress, unity, and dignity to Egbaland and Ogun State as a whole.

According to the governor, Oba Gbadebo has, since ascending the exalted throne, demonstrated exceptional commitment to the peace, cultural preservation, and socio-economic advancement of his people. He noted that the monarchs wisdom, statesmanship, and unwavering support for developmental initiatives had continued to inspire both traditional and contemporary governance structures across the state.

I join the government and good people of Ogun State in congratulating His Royal Majesty, Oba Adedotun Aremu Gbadebo (Okukenu IV), the Alake of Egbaland, on the momentous occasion of his 20th anniversary on the throne.

Since his coronation as the 10th Alake and Paramount Ruler of Egbaland on November 19, 2005, Kabiyesi has continued to exemplify wisdom, dignity, and an unwavering commitment to the peace, unity, and development of Egbaland and Ogun State at large. His reign has been marked by remarkable strides in cultural preservation, community advancement, and the promotion of harmony among all people.

Kabiyesis reign has been characterized by grace, compassion, and an unrelenting pursuit of the welfare of his people. His role in fostering communal harmony and supporting our governments development agenda remains invaluable. On behalf of the government and good people of Ogun State, I congratulate our revered royal father on this remarkable anniversary, Governor Abiodun said.

He prayed that the Almighty would continue to grant the Alake sound health, long life, and greater wisdom to continue his noble service to Egbaland, Ogun State, and Nigeria. He wishes His Royal Majesty a memorable and impactful 20th coronation anniversary celebration.
Katsina State Governor, Dikko Umaru Radda, has positioned the state as a continental model for sustainable development, calling for enhanced international partnerships to support subnational climate action across Africa. Speaking at the Nigerian Pavilion during COP30 in Belem, Brazil, Governor Radda, represented by the Special Adviser to the governor on Climate Change, Mohammed Al-Amin, delivered a compelling address themed Imperative for International Collaborations and Supports Towards Climate Actions at Subnational Level: The Katsina State Pathway.

Through our reforms, Katsina State has become a living model for Africas green transitiona subnational proof-of-concept that sustainability is not a constraint on growth, but its most enduring foundation, Mr Al-Amin, a professor declared. He emphasised that Katsina States transformation reflects a deliberate choice by his administration to make climate resilience and green growth the centerpiece of governance, driven by the daily realities of desertification, erratic rainfall, and declining agricultural productivity faced by the people.

Mr Al-Amin highlighted key institutional reforms that have positioned Katsina State at the forefront of Africas climate response, including the establishment of the Katsina State Council on Climate Change (KSCCC) under his direct chairmanship and the creation of the State Secretariat on Climate Change within the Office of the Governor. He also noted the implementation of Africas first subnational Green Public Procurement Executive Order, embedding sustainability standards in all government projects. Our message to the world is clear: Africas green growth will not emerge from rhetoric, but from actionand subnational governments are where that action begins, the Special Adviser said.

The Katsina State delegation presented a portfolio of 30 bankable climate projects spanning solar energy, afforestation, climate-smart agriculture, and low-carbon urban development. These projects demonstrate the states readiness to collaborate with development partners, multilateral institutions, and private investors. He further outlined his vision for Katsinas Climate Resilience Fund and Green Growth Strategy to become channels for global cooperation, where international financing meets local action in alignment with the Paris Agreement and the African Unions Agenda 2063.

As the world gathers at COP30 to renew its commitment to planetary stewardship, I invite our partners across governments, development finance institutions, and the private sector to join hands with us, Mr Al-Amin appealed. Together, we can make Katsina State not just a beacon of green transformation in Nigeria, but a continental model for sustainable development in Africa, he added.

behalf of the Governor conveyed the assurances of President Bola Tinubu to all partners seeking to work with Nigeria, noting that climate resilience converges with the Renewed Hope Agenda. Katsina State participation at COP30 is part of the Radda-led administration participation underscores Katsina States commitment to transformative climate and development outcomes at the subnational level. Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Katsina State 18th November, 2025
In response to the rising malaria burden in Nigeria, LG Electronics has joined forces with AXA Mansard Health to launch an impactful initiative that provides free malaria insurance to Nigerians, especially LG customers.

This groundbreaking partnership forms part of LGs Lifes Good Care Campaign, designed to protect families and promote healthier communities nationwide.

According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), 2023 recorded nearly a quarter of a billion malaria cases worldwide, with Nigeria accounting for 26%, the highest globally. The country, along with some African countries contributed nearly half of all global malaria cases.

Through this partnership, LG Electronics and AXA Mansard Health are taking bold steps to reduce malarias toll on Nigerian families by providing insurance coverage for malaria treatment, improving access to healthcare, and creating stronger public awareness around prevention.

The free malaria insurance is designed to ease the financial burden of treatment and empower families with better access to healthcare solutions.

Malaria continues to pose a serious health and economic threat to millions of families, said Mr Hyoung Sub Ji, Managing Director, LG Electronics West Africa. Our commitment goes beyond innovative technology; its about improving lives. Partnering with AXA Mansard allows us to deliver practical healthcare protection to the people who matter most: our customers and communities.

We believe that healthcare must be accessible and affordable, especially when it comes to malaria, one of the most preventable diseases, added Mrs Jumoke Odunlami  Chief Distribution Officer, AXA Mansard & Director AXA Mansard Health. By working with LG, were expanding the reach of our malaria insurance plans to protect more families and make a meaningful impact.

One of the key lessons from 2020 is that healthcare remains a universal priority for everyone, regardless of age, gender, or background, we must continue to develop sustainable and innovative solutions that always address peoples health needs.

This initiative is our way of contributing to the fight against malaria and reducing its impact across the country. Mrs Odunlami said.

Through this initiative, LG Electronics customers will have access to AXA Mansard Healths Standard, Classic and Premium Malaria-care plans, designed to make quality healthcare more accessible and convenient. All plans offer telemedicine services, allowing customers to consult with qualified doctors remotely, alongside access to prescribed drugs at accredited pharmacies with free delivery within Lagos.

The Premium Care Plan provides an added layer of protection by offering comprehensive Malaria coverage and access to over 1,000 hospitals nationwide, ensuring customers can receive care when and where they need it. This partnership reflects LGs commitment to extending care beyond technology, making healthcare access a tangible benefit for Nigerian families.

The Lifes Good Care Campaign is a continuation of LGs long-standing commitment to corporate social responsibility, reinforcing its position as a brand that truly cares about the people it serves.

For more information on how to benefit from this initiative, customers are encouraged to visit LG Electronics-authorized retail outlets or the official website.
Katsina State has recorded another remarkable national feat, as the Federal Government has officially declared the State Open-Defecation-Free (ODF). This ODF status places Katsina among the highest-performing states advancing Nigerias Water, Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH) agenda.

The recognition was conferred on Wednesday during the 6th Anniversary of the Clean Nigeria Campaign and the 2025 World Toilet Day Commemoration, organised by the Federal Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation in collaboration with the Clean Nigeria: Use the Toilet Campaign and other national WASH stakeholders.

This years celebration, held under the theme Well Always Need the Toilet, took place at Rockview Hotel Royale, Wuse 2, Abuja, and featured a national sensitisation walk to promote safe sanitation practices.

Governor Dikko Umaru Radda was represented by the Commissioner for Water Resources, Dr Bishir Gambo Saulawa, who received the ODF certification on behalf of the Governor.

He was accompanied by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Water Resources; the leadership of RUWASSA, STOWASSA, and SEPA; and the State Coordinator of SURWASH, all of whom have played central roles in driving sanitation reforms across Katsinas 34 local government areas.

After receiving the certification, Dr Saulawa described the achievement as a major boost to Katsinas ongoing sanitation reforms and a powerful testament to the collective commitment of communities, traditional institutions, local stakeholders, and sanitation agencies across the State.

This years commemoration brought together senior federal officials, development partners, civil society organisations, school children, cultural troupes, and WASH stakeholders from across Nigeria.

The programme featured a symbolic walk, goodwill messages, and a documentary highlighting national progress toward eliminating open defecation.

Development partners, including UNICEF, the World Bank, WaterAid, SURWASH, Action Against Hunger, and Self Help Africa, commended Katsina States achievement and stressed the need to sustain momentum in sanitation efforts.

World Toilet Day, celebrated globally on November 19, is a United Nations initiative promoting progress toward SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation for All. This makes todays certification especially significant, as Katsina becomes the second state in Nigeria, after Jigawa, to attain full ODF status.

Speaking at the event, Dr Saulawa noted that this achievement was made possible within a relatively short period under Governor Radda leadership. He said the recognition places a greater responsibility on the administration to sustain and expand sanitation improvements, both in rural and urban communities.

This achievement is not just a badge of honour, it is a reminder that the health and dignity of our people must remain at the centre of government action, he said. His Excellency remains fully committed to strengthening WASH systems, expanding access to toilets, and ensuring that every community in Katsina enjoys a clean, safe, and healthy environment, he added.

He explained that Governor Radda strategy blends infrastructure investment, community mobilisation, behavioural change campaigns, and strong partnerships with federal institutions and development partners.

The Commissioner also highlighted the leadership and teamwork of RUWASSA, STOWASSA, SEPA, and SURWASH, describing them as the backbone of Katsinas rapid progress.

He stressed that these agencies have worked with households, schools, community leaders, and volunteers to promote safe sanitation behaviours and end open defecation. He added that the ODF status enhances Katsinas national credibility and positions the State to attract more support from partners committed to improving WASH outcomes nationwide.

Dr Saulawa further noted that improved sanitation has reduced disease outbreaks, improved the safety of women and children, and created cleaner, healthier communities across the State. He also praised community volunteers and local structures for their consistency and dedication.

He assured attendees that the Radda administration will continue to expand sanitation coverage, strengthen monitoring systems, and support communities to sustain the ODF status in the long term. He reaffirmed the States readiness to deepen collaboration with the Federal Government, international partners, and civil society actors.

The Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Prof Utsev, commended states that have shown exceptional commitment to the Clean Nigeria Campaign. He emphasised that ending open defecation is vital for public health, environmental protection, and national development.

The minister noted that much of Nigerias progress is driven by states like Katsina, where political will, strong institutional coordination, and community participation align effectively.

Development partners, including UNICEF, the World Bank, WaterAid, BURWASH, Action Against Hunger, and Self Help Africa, also praised Katsinas progress and pledged ongoing support to sustain and expand sanitation gains across the State.

The Federal Government acknowledged that despite existing challenges in sanitation access, the successes recorded in Katsina and Jigawa demonstrate that achieving nationwide ODF status is possible through sustained commitment.

Among the dignitaries in attendance were senior officials of the Federal Ministry of Water Resources, representatives of international organisations, environmental and sanitation experts, school children, cultural groups, and WASH actors from across the country.
Former Governor of Kano State, Rabiu Kwankwaso, has called for an investigation into the intelligence failure that led to the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State, and the killing of a Brigade Commander, Musa Uba, in Borno State.

Mr Kwankwaso, in a statement on Facebook, described the killing of the military general and kidnapping of the schoolgirls as a surge in insecurity in Nigeria (that) has reached a level that demands urgent attention from all authorities, especially the Federal Government.

The abduction and subsequent killing of Brigadier Gen. M. Uba by terrorists in Borno State is one of the darkest moments in our nations fight against terrorism. This shocking intelligence and operational failure demands an immediate and thorough investigation, he stated.

Mr Kwankwasos demand for an investigation amplified the voice of Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State, who earlier accused the security agencies of ignoring credible intelligence provided by the State Security Services (SSS) regarding the imminent attack on the Government Girls Comprehensive Secondary School, Maga, in Danko Wasagu Local Government Area.

Mr Idris, during a visit to the school, described the incident as clear sabotage.

He disclosed that following the SSS alert, the State Security Council had ordered round-the-clock protection for the institution.

However, operatives reportedly abandoned their duty posts shortly before the bandits struck.

We got credible intelligence from the DSS that this school was likely to be attacked The decision was that we would provide round-the-clock protection, the governor said. This is clear sabotage.

Corroborating the governors claim, a teacher who survived the attack told reporters that heavily armed security personnel had spent Sunday night at the school, interacting and taking photographs with students.

Sadly, for yet-to-be-determined reasons, they reportedly left the school before dawn, the teacher narrated. About 30 minutes after they withdrew, the kidnappers struck.

Governor Idris has since constituted a special investigation panel, to be chaired by the State Director of the SSS, to probe the security failure and coordinate rescue efforts.

Kwankwaso tasks federal government

The kidnapping of 25 schoolgirls in Kebbi State is deeply worrying and echoes a disturbing pattern from the recent past, Mr Kwankwaso said.

He stated that insecurity across the North-west, including Kano, where banditry and kidnapping for ransom are infrequent, has escalated.

Furthermore, mass kidnappings have been reported in Zamfara State, which is truly heartbreaking. I urge the swift rescue of the victims.

On another front, the recent surge in bandit attacks across Shanono and Ghari Local Government Areas in Kano State demands urgent concern and immediate action.

It is heartening to note the Kano State Governments swift response, including the donation of operational vehicles to security forces.

The Federal Government must fulfil its primary responsibility. These incidents are not isolated; they reveal serious setbacks in the battle against insecurity.

I call on the authorities to take decisive action by reinvigorating our armed forces and empowering the Nigeria Police Force to effectively protect and defend our people from these acts of terror, the former governor said.
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has responded to criticism of his administrations decision to sack two political aides who attended the recent national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ibadan, Oyo State.

The sacked aides are Joseph Jacob Ikpak, a senior special assistant to the governor on support services, and Felix Ekuri, a special assistant to the governor on Neighbourhood Watch.

Since Mr Eno defected from the PDP to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) in June, there has been widespread discontent among Akwa Ibom politicians, who feel that the governor has not only betrayed the party that brought him into power but has also thrown the oil-rich state into political confusion.

The governor has been struggling to manage political disloyalty from aides and politicians in the state, amid conflicts over the sharing of political positions between the APC members and those who joined the party from the PDP.

It is time for everyone who eats at the table of the king to stand up and be counted, Mr Eno said on Tuesday during the swearing-in of a new Head of Akwa Ibom Civil Service, Elsie Peters, at the Government House, Uyo.

The governors remark was a reaction to the latest political tension in the state.

Those who are not willing and ready to work with us, show loyalty to what we stand for and where we stand in this current dispensation, they are very free to leave. My appointees are called aides to the governor. They are expected to work closely with the governor and interpret his vision for the development of our state, the governor added.

What we will not tolerate is for people to believe that they can be in government and be working against the government, have the audacity to show up in places they are not supposed to show up and expect that there will be no consequence.

Every action carries a consequence, and I say it again: either you carefully and quietly leave and will be glad to receive resignations than to stay inside and begin to rock the boat. We will not tolerate it, and that is the truth.

Mr Eno, a pastor, referred to Matthew 6:24 in the Bible and stated, No man can serve two masters.

Faithfulness and loyalty should be sacrosanct. It is non-negotiable. And this is not only an Akwa Ibom standard; it is a universal standard. So we are not reinventing the wheel here. Let me also say here that those who think they can try our resolve to maintain peace should have a rethink.

And those who think we are weak in taking decisions should wake up because meekness will never be weakness.

Sources within the Government House, Uyo, told PREMIUM TIMES on Monday that Governor Eno, apparently disturbed by the action of the sacked aides, has summoned all his political aides to an emergency meeting on Wednesday at the Government House.

A notice for the meeting has already been sent out by the SSG, a source within the governors cabinet told our reporter.

The source stated that there has been apprehension within the administration because of concerns that many officials, including commissioners, have remained loyal to the PDP and Mr Enos predecessor, Mr Emmanuel.

Ini Ememobong, who resigned his appointment as commissioner in Mr Enos administration rather than join the governor in the APC, was elected on Saturday at the PDP convention as the partys national spokesperson.

Renowned journalist tackles Eno

A renowned journalist and a PDP chieftain in Akwa Ibom, Michael Bush, on Tuesday, weighed in on the sacking of Mr Enos aides, and said that the governor had deceived the people with his Akwa Ibom United political slogan.

Before defecting from the PDP to the APC, Mr Eno played down party politics, saying that political parties are merely vehicles for seeking elected offices.

At the time, Mr Eno had encouraged the PDP members in Akwa Ibom, including his administration officials, to accept, show respect, and work with the APC leaders and members in the state.

After his defection, the governor doubled down  integrating the phrase Akwa Ibom United, which he used to refer to governance across party lines, into the APC slogan in the state.

In September, during the controversy over the action of some of his aides who went to the Uyo airport to welcome his predecessor, Udom Emmanuel, Mr Eno said, We are running Akwa Ibom United. We respect our leaders across party lines, but that does not change the fact that I am in the APC now to support President Bola Tinubu and Mr Akpabio.

When asked if his predecessor, who has remained in the PDP, was happy with him, Mr Eno said, I will not fight my boss (referring to the former governor, Mr Emmanuel) or any leader.

We are in good terms, he added.

In October, less than a month after Mr Enos remarks, the police withdrew security from Mr Emmanuels residence, on the governors order, indicating that the relationship between the two leaders had broken down.

Demand for apology

Apologise today for the euphemism or rather the deceit you call Akwa Ibom United and go on to run your APC system because even the blind can see what you are doing from the pulpit of governance, Mr Bush, the CEO of Bush House Nigeria, a media outfit in Uyo, said to Mr Eno in a Facebook post on Tuesday morning, following the governors sacking of two of his political aides, on Monday, for attending the PDP national convention.

The 2027 governorship poll in Akwa Ibom will be more than just an election. It will be a no-holds-barred referendum on light or darkness, honesty or deception and above all, on whether a traitor can be betrayed.

The man in Government House, Uyo, needs neither supporters nor opponents for that election. What he needs, and he had better start conducting his housekeeping now, is a verifiable account of the stewardship that PDP foolishly offered him in 2023, said Mr Bush, who was among the leading campaigners for Governor Eno in his 2023 election.
Tega Oghenedoro, a Nigerian journalist popularly known as Fejiro Oliver, has been released from a correctional centre in Delta State, Nigerias South-south.

One of his lawyers, Inibehe Effiong, confirmed this in a post on X on Tuesday, 18 November.

After spending two months (61 days, inclusive of yesterday) in police and prison custody in Delta State, I can confirm that Nigerian investigative journalist and publisher of Secret Reporters, Fejiro Oliver, has regained freedom, Mr Effiong stated.

The lawyer stated that the two cybercrime charges filed by the Inspector-General of Police at the Federal High Court in Asaba, as well as the two separate defamation charges filed by the Attorney-General of Delta State at the Magistrates Court in Asaba, were still pending.

Mr Oliver was accused of cyberstalking Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and a senator from the state.

The journalist, the publisher of Secret Reporters, an online newspaper based in Abuja, was detained for 61 days despite being granted bail twice.

He initially spent three weeks in police custody in Asaba, Delta State, without trial following his arrest in Abuja on 18 September.

Mr Oliver was later remanded in Ogwashi-Uku Correctional Centre after a hearing at the Federal High Court in Asaba on 9 October.

PREMIUM TIMES gathered that the Federal High Court in Delta granted Mr Oliver bail on 16 October, but the state government allegedly ignored the courts bail and pursued additional charges through a magistrates court.

Two different magistrates in Asaba, it was gathered, granted Mr Oliver bail on 28 October in the two fresh defamation charges marked as Charge No. CMA/529C/2025 and Charge No. CMA/530C/2025.

The Delta State Government, acting through its Attorney General, had filed two new charges against Mr Oliver.

Details of the charges

Mr Oliver, in the first charge, was accused of defaming Delta South Senator Joel Onowakpo by referring to him as a Blockhead Senator and politically useless.

In the second charge, the journalist was accused of defaming Stella Okotete, an executive director at the Nigerian Export-Import Bank.

Ms Okotetes nomination as a minister by President Tinubu was rejected by the Senate in 2023.

The police, in the first charge dated 3 October, claimed Mr Oliver, between July and August 2025, via a Facebook post, cyber-stalked Governor Oborevwori.

He was further accused of writing that the governor is a sleeping governor who rigged the election, which the police claimed was aimed at damaging his reputation and thereby constituted an offence punishable under Section 24(2)(c)(ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act 2015, as amended.

In a second charge sheet also dated 3 October, Mr Oliver was accused of making similar publications on his Facebook page in which he allegedly cyber-stalked the Delta Central Senator, Ede Dafinone.

The journalist was further accused of frequently calling the senator names such as grossly incompetent senator, sleeping senator and betraying ingrate.

The police argued in the charge that by also calling for the recall of Mr Dafinone, the journalist intended to destroy the senators reputation and thereby committed an offence punishable under section 24 (2) (c) (ii) of the Cybercrime (Prohibition Prevention etc) Act, 2015, as amended.

Cybercrime as a tool

Mr Olivers prosecution highlights growing concerns over how Nigerian officials and elite use police to prosecute critics and journalists.

Defamation is recognised as both a civil and a criminal offence in Nigerian law. Still, many prefer to approach it as a crime, with the police relying on the Cybercrime Act to prosecute suspected offenders.

Nigerians, including legal experts, believe the Cybercrimes (Prohibition, Prevention) Act is one of the Nigerian laws often used to harass and prosecute journalists and suppress free speech in the country.

First enacted in 2015, the Act was later amended in 2024 following criticism for suppressing free speech and dissent, primarily through its vague sections, such as Section 24, which had been used against journalists and activists for online statements deemed false or insulting.

At least 29 journalists had faced prosecution under the Act before its amendment, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).
The Police Command in Ebonyi State has confirmed the killing of Christopher Igwe, the younger brother of Uchenna Igwe, the commissioner for local government and chieftaincy matters, by suspected armed robbers.

Joshua Ukandu, the commands spokesperson, confirmed the incident to the News Agency of Nigeria on Tuesday in Abakaliki, the state capital.

Mr Ukandu, a superintendent of police, said that the incident occurred around the Ishieke axis in Ebonyi Local Government Area at about 10 p.m. on Monday night.

Yes, the incident occurred on Monday night at about 10 p.m. along the Ishieke area.

The armed robbers, after operations at a cooking gas selling store, began to shoot, and, unfortunately, the brother of the commissioner was shot dead, he said.

Mr Ukandu said the command had already launched an investigation into the matter for the possible arrest of the hoodlums.

He, therefore, urged residents to provide useful information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators of the crime.

Decades of killing over land disputes

Ebonyi has a history of killings that are associated with land disputes among communities, with some of them going on for decades.

A middle-aged man, Dick Nnachi, in Oso-Edda, Edda Local Government Area of the state, was beheaded on 28 August.

The Oso-Edda and Amasiri communities in Afikpo Local Government Area have been engaged in a long-standing communal conflict over land ownership.

In April this year, four people were killed in a renewed land dispute between the people of Ndukwe Community, Amasiri in Afikpo and the neighbouring Okporojo in Osso Edda.

Houses and properties worth millions were destroyed in the hostilities in the decade-long crisis between the two communities.

PREMIUM TIMES conducted a detailed investigation in 2022 to trace how an ancient conflict led to the displacement of an entire community from their ancestral land in Ebonyi.
The Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu University College of Medicine on Tuesday inducted 80 graduates into the medical profession.

Lawrence Ikeako, a professor and dean of the College of Medicine, presented the successful new medical doctors to the Medical and Dental Council Association of Nigeria (MDCAN).

Mr Ikeako said that the graduands had obtained all the training and fulfilled all the requirements for becoming qualified medical doctors.

He stated that COOU Medical College would continue to produce high-quality professionals, while also calling for collaboration with the private sector.

We need your support to enable the institution to carry the capacity approved by MDCAN, he said.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that Chioma Njelita, 21, emerged the overall best female and the overall best graduating student.

She finished as the top student in pharmacology, pathology, obstetrics and gynaecology, community medicine, paediatrics, and internal medicine, and shared the top prize in surgery.

JohnPaul Nwankwo and Cajethan Egbosimba shared the top positions in anatomy. Egbosimba won the award for best student in biochemistry, while Nnamdi Onwuegbusi received the top prize in physiology.

Advice for the new doctors

In his convocation lecture, Emeritus Professor Joseph-Ifeanyi-Brian-d Adimma urged the inductees to uphold the ethics and values of medicine in their relationship with patients and colleagues.

Mr Adimma cautioned them against taking risks with peoples lives and ensuring they had competence for whatever they wanted to do.

Treat patients with confidentiality, respect their privacy and tell them the full truth at all times and do not relate with quacks, he said.

In her speech, Kate Omenugha, the vice-chancellor of COOU, congratulated the new doctors and urged them not to rest on their laurels, but to endeavour to advance their careers.

Mrs Omenugha, a professor and mother of two medical doctors, urged them to justify the investment in them.

She said that COOU now had 240 against 100 slots for new intakes and announced an automatic Housemanship slot for the top five best graduates.

READ ALSO: Oluremi Tinubu speaks on Kebbi schoolgirls abduction

Speaking on behalf of her colleagues, Njelita appreciated God for graciously leading them through the journey, as well as their parents, families, and sponsors for their support.

Thank you a million times for your love, sacrifices and prayers which carried us through the longest nights and the toughest exams.

You are our first teachers in compassion, and this achievement is as much yours as it is ours.

Becoming the best graduating student with seven distinctions is a huge win for me and for everyone who has invested in me, including my parents, my teachers, my mentors, my friends and this institution, she said.
The legislation now needs to be approved by the Senate and signed by the president, who has spent months opposing the release of the materials concerning his former friend

The question wasnt whether The Epstein Files Transparency Act would pass the U.S. House of Representatives on Tuesday, but rather how much Republican support the measure would receive. The bill requires the Department of Justice to declassify documents related to the case of the disgraced billionaire  a move Donald Trump and his administration have opposed for months. Another unresolved question, now that the first hurdle has been cleared, is how many obstacles the bill will face on its way through the Senate before reaching the desk of the president of the United States, who has promised to sign it.

The answer to the first question was: all but one  Clay Higgins, representative from Louisiana. What explains this overwhelming support? After weeks of opposing pressure, Trump  who had been friends with Epstein for 15 years  gave House Republicans permission on Sunday to vote in favor of the bill. He did not go quite as far as he could have: he has the power to order the disclosure of these files without Congresss permission. The documents could reveal the involvement in Epsteins sexual trafficking network of dozens of wealthy and influential men, as well as the complicity of financial institutions, judicial bodies, and failures by authorities that allowed him to act with impunity.

As for the second question, it is still too early to answer. Although House Speaker Mike Johnson, whose decision to keep the bill in recess for 54 days delayed the legislative process during the longest government shutdown in U.S. history, suggested Tuesday morning that the Senate would likely introduce amendments to the legislation, which he described as deeply flawed. Johnson raised objections to the measure because, he said, it contains no provisions to protect the identity of the victims, even though dozens of them came to the Capitol on Tuesday to pressure him and his colleagues to approve it.

Johnson is also concerned that the reputations of those who were part of Epsteins circle of influence  who committed their crimes between the early 1990s and Epsteins death (a suicide, according to the medical examiner) in 2019 while in a maximum-security Manhattan jail awaiting trial as the ringleader of an international sexual trafficking network of minors  could be harmed by the publication of these materials, in case they ultimately prove not to be guilty.

House Speaker Mike Johnson on Tuesday at the Capitol. LUKE JOHNSON (EFE)

If House Republicans choose to amend the text, it could delay the process  possibly until early next year  a journey that began after Attorney General Pam Bondi announced last July that she would not release Epsteins files, despite having promised to do so for months.

That change of course, which followed a White House meeting in which Bondi warned Trump that his name appeared everywhere in the Epstein papers, set the House Oversight Committee in motion. The committee has received around 65,000 pages of documents  the latest batch, approximately 20,000 emails, arrived last week  through judicial requests to Epsteins family. Members have also requested materials from the Department of Justice, which holds an enormous amount of content, estimated in the millions of pages, but the Trump administration has repeatedly refused to cooperate with their investigation.

Bipartisan support

The news that the Trump administration would not release the files also forged an alliance between representatives from both parties, Ro Khanna (a Democrat from California) and Thomas Massie (a Republican from Kentucky), to draft the bill. The initiative received the support of all Democrats and four Republicans: Massie, who said on Tuesday that he was embarrassed by my own party, Representatives Lauren Boebert (Colorado), Nancy Mace (South Carolina), and Marjorie Taylor Greene (Georgia).

Boebert was summoned to the White House last Wednesday in an unsuccessful attempt to pressure her not to sign the petition that advanced the bill after the administration reopened. We have had to fight against intimidation for months, Greene said shortly before 1:00 p.m. local time. She spoke from the Democratic side in a chamber where only a handful of representatives were present.

The congresswoman had once been one of the most prominent faces of the MAGA movement in the Capitol, but her defense of Epsteins victims has put her at odds with Trump, who last week denounced her in a series of aggressive messages calling her a traitor, which, according to her, led to threats and other intimidation tactics by supporters of the president.

Epstein and Trump, in 1997, in Florida. Foto: Davidoff Studios (Getty Images)

Hours earlier, Greene had spoken at an event alongside dozens of Epstein survivors. It was a defiant press conference in which many of the victims  just a few among the hundreds abused by the convicted sex offender  spoke after displaying photos of themselves from when they first met Epstein, some as young as 14, as Mace recalled when it was her turn to speak on the House floor.

One of them, Haley Robson, spoke for all of them when she addressed Trump on the Capitol steps: I am traumatized, I am not stupid. The women who spoke after her repeated their messages to the president of the United States, urging him not to play politics with their suffering. They also asked him to stop referring to the attempt to declassify Epsteins documents as a Democratic hoax. During the debate on the bill, that group of survivors interrupted with applause from the visitors gallery whenever Democrats spoke.

What is Trump hiding? What is -[Attorney General Pam] Bondi hiding? asked Congressman Robert Garcia in a passionate speech. Garcia is the highest-ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee.

On the Republican side, Jim Jordan (Ohio) demanded to know why the documents werent released during the Biden administration either. Democrat Jamie Raskin (Maryland) responded by reminding his colleagues that for part of those four years, there was an active case underway  the prosecution of Epsteins accomplice and recruiter, Ghislaine Maxwell. She is now serving a 20-year sentence in a minimum-security prison, a status she obtained after meeting in July with a Justice Department envoy, Todd Blanche, for nine hours over two separate days.

U.S. law prohibits the release of trial materials while a case remains open, and Democrats fear that the Trump administration will cling to that rule to continue refusing to publish the files. Last Friday, in a move that violates the separation of powers, Trump asked Bondi to open investigations only into prominent Democrats whose names have appeared in successive document releases. He cited three: former president Bill Clinton, former Harvard president Larry Summers, and mega-donor Reid Hoffman.

Bondi put a New York prosecutor on the case. If those investigations go forward, the Justice Department could use them as an excuse not to disclose the papers that members of both parties  along with dozens of victims of what one judge once described as the most infamous pedophile in American history  demanded on Tuesday.

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A Nigerian senator, Okey Ezea, is dead.

The Senator representing Enugu North District, Okey Ezea, is dead.

Mr Ezea died at a private hospital in Lagos State on Tuesday, according to a statement on Wednesday by his first son, Jideofor Ezea, on behalf of the family.

With profound grief, the family of Distinguished Senator Okey Ezea, who represented Enugu North Senatorial District in the 10th Senate, announces his passing, Jideofor said in the statement.

He said the 62-year-old senator passed on at about 11:07 p.m. on Tuesday in Lagos State after a brief illness.

The lawmakers son appealed to Nigerians to commit the bereaved family in prayers during this difficult time.

Until his passing, he remained the only federal lawmaker from Enugu State elected on the Labour Party platform in 2023 who, on principle, refused to defect to the ruling party  standing firm against the pressure to ditch the party that sponsored him to the Senate, he said.

Okey Ezea at a glance

Born on 11 August 1963, Mr Ezea hailed from Itchi, a community in Igbo-Eze South Local Government Area of Enugu State.

He began his political career in 2007 when he unsuccessfully contested in the Enugu State governorship election of that year under the platform of the LP.

The senator again unsuccessfully contested in the states governorship election in 2015 under the platform of All Progressives Congress.

By 2018, the then-President Muhammadu Buhari appointed him as the Chairperson of Governing Board, Federal Medical Centre in Jalingo, Taraba State.

He held the position until 2022 before resigning to rejoin the LP and was subsequently elected senator for Enugu North District during the 2023 general election under the LPs platform.

Mr Ezea defeated the then-Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi of Enugu State during the senatorial election in the district in 2023.
NEW YORK, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- For the first time, on December 10, Harrah's Waterfront Conference Center, Atlantic City, N.J., will host a gathering of business leaders, government officials, T.V. personalities, and other media at the JBiz Expo & Business Conference, hosted by the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, that will explore the issues shaping tomorrow, such as AI, banking, energy, global trade, media integrity, innovation, and economic stability.

International and national leaders will tackle world problems and solutions. The Economic Summit's focus is for leadership and C-level participants only to help build their companies smoothly and be aware of the new challenges and solutions for 2026. The JBiz Expo and Business Conference will also feature global AI experts, World Bank economists, senior government leaders, and national broadcasters, including Newsmax's "WiseGuys," filmed live on site.

The Economic Summit's main sponsor Apple Bank and its president will provide the keynote speech about banking challenges and solutions in today's digital times. An Artificial Intelligence panel, including its top leaders; and a N.J. panel, with Senator Gordon Johnson, Assistant Senate Speaker and Chair of labor and on equal opportunity, and a commerce committee will also be featured. Middletown, N.J., Mayor Tony Perry will also be attending the Economic Summit.

Rather than drawing from a single industry, the conference will introduce speakers and participants whose work spans global economics, artificial intelligence, energy, international diplomacy, government relations, and journalism. Several participants advise national governments and Fortune-level companies; others guide major broadcast platforms or shape public policy. The mix is exceptionally uncommon, offering perspectives that are almost never available in one shared setting.

The business leadership sessions will include discussions on practical concerns, such as navigating rising energy costs, accessing capital, and pursuing certification pathways that support minority-owned enterprises. Attendees will also hear from leaders working inside global systems of finance, international trade, and emerging technology. These speakers bring insight from advisory roles at organizations including the World Bank, multinational energy firms, and major technology initiatives in the Middle East and Asia.

The conference will also host a media track that examines the increasingly complex role of modern journalism. Presenters from broadcast radio, digital media, and analysis platforms will address how information is shaped, how trust is earned, and how public understanding is influenced during periods of uncertainty. The intent is less about media promotion and more about candid reflection on responsibility, accuracy, and the ways in which reporting interacts with public life and business outcomes.

While the Expo includes exhibitor spaces, networking, and meetings with agency officials and business service providers, the core value for many attendees may be exposure to this uncommon blend of expertise. The program aims to give business owners and professionals access to ideas and relationships typically limited to high-level policy environments or private corporate settings. In addition to general admission, a private evening reception on December 9 will bring together presenters, partners, and invited dignitaries.

Duvi Honig, founder and CEO of the Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, said, "From relationship banking and rising energy costs to AI transformation and responsible media, JBiz 2025 will give leaders the insight and connections needed to stay ahead."

Registration and hotel information are available online, and more speakers are expected to be announced in the coming weeks. For organizations watching global trends and trying to position themselves thoughtfully within a shifting economic landscape, this year's JBiz Expo offers a rare opportunity to listen, ask questions, and interact directly with figures whose work is shaping the systems we operate in every day.

Featured Business Leaders & Industry Experts:

Steven C. Bush, Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Apple Bank. Topic:

" Beyond Transactions: How Relationship Banking Protects Your Money and Accelerates Business Success."

Chairman, President, and Chief Executive Officer, Apple Bank. Topic: " Mark Minevich , Global AI Visionary. Featured Speaker  Recognized among the Top 100 AI Influencers in the World, advisor to Hitachi Japan, Aramco, and the Saudi Data & AI Authority. Keynote: " Where AI Is Taking the World of Business  Transforming How We Work, Connect, and Grow Today."

, Global AI Visionary.  Recognized among the Top 100 AI Influencers in the World, advisor to Hitachi Japan, Aramco, and the Saudi Data & AI Authority. "  Michael Fallquist , CEO, Energywell  " Energy Crisis, Rising Energy Cost, and What Businesses Can Do to Combat It and Bring the Cost Down."

, CEO, Energywell  " Kateryna Odarchenko , CEO, SIC Group USA LLC  "Building Influence in Washington, D.C.: The Intersection of Government Relations and Reputation."

, CEO, SIC Group USA LLC  Dr. Vladimir Bozovic , Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York  "Business and Relations with Foreign Countries."

, Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York  Duvi Honig , Founder & CEO, Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce  "Minority Status for Business Pathways to Certification  Empowering Business Growth Through Inclusion."

As Chair of World Trade Week USA, Honig's leadership continues to unite business and government through commerce and collaboration.

, Founder & CEO, Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce  As Chair of World Trade Week USA, Honig's leadership continues to unite business and government through commerce and collaboration. Kathy Guzman , New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)  " Grow Your Small Business with NJEDA Grants and Loans."

, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)  " John Anthony Tabacco , Host of Newsmax's "WiseGuys"  (show will be shot live at J-Biz this year)  A globally recognized capital markets and blockchain expert, cofounder and former president of tZERO, and the architect of Overstock.com's Bitcoin adoption strategy, Tabacco has led multi-billion-dollar market innovations and currently advises Trump Media & Technology Group and Newsmax Media. Topic: " Leading through Disruption: How Blockchain and Media Are Shaping the Future of Global Business"

Special Feature: Newsmax's "WiseGuys" will be filmed live on site at JBiz Expo 2025, capturing interviews with top business and government leaders.

, Host of Newsmax's "WiseGuys"  (show will be shot live at J-Biz this year)  A globally recognized capital markets and blockchain expert, cofounder and former president of tZERO, and the architect of Overstock.com's adoption strategy, Tabacco has led multi-billion-dollar market innovations and currently advises Trump Media & Technology Group and Newsmax Media. Topic: " Special Feature: Newsmax's "WiseGuys" will be filmed live on site at JBiz Expo 2025, capturing interviews with top business and government leaders. Hilary Fordwich, Corporate Speaker and Client Retention Consultant. Topic: " Values and Credibility as Cornerstones of Sustainable Media Commerce"

Corporate Speaker and Client Retention Consultant. Topic: " Dr. Emily Brearley, Senior Economist at the World Bank, closes the track with "Inclusive Growth and Smart Solutions for a Sustainable Global Future," connecting innovation, inclusion, and investment into one framework for long-term stability. Topic: "Building a Better Future: How Inclusive Growth and Smart Solutions Strengthen Economies for Al"l

Hank Sheinkopf Topic: " Where the World of Media Is Failing Us". Described by The New York Times as "one of the state's most experienced political operatives," Sheinkopf has led over 700 political campaigns across 44 states and 14 countries, advising leaders including President Bill Clinton and Mayor Michael Bloomberg.

Topic: " Described by The New York Times as "one of the state's most experienced political operatives," Sheinkopf has led over 700 political campaigns across 44 states and 14 countries, advising leaders including President Bill Clinton and Mayor Michael Bloomberg. Chris Arps, is cohost of "The Tim Jones & Chris Arps Show" on NewsTalkSTL, known for his influential voice in conservative media and grassroots leadership. Topic: Speaking Truth Through Political Media  Building Bridges Between Grassroots Leadership and National Discourse

Artificial Intelligence Leadership Panel  Topic: Where AI Is Taking the World of Business  Transforming How We Work, Connect, and Grow Today

Mark Minevich, Global AI Visionary, Recognized among the Top 100 AI Influencers in the World, advisor to Hitachi Japan, Aramco, and the Saudi Data and AI Authority.

Global AI Visionary, Recognized among the Top 100 AI Influencers in the World, advisor to Hitachi Japan, Aramco, and the Saudi Data and AI Authority. Elaine Barsoom, Former Head of AI / Tech Innovation Partnerships, NIKE

Former Head of AI / Tech Innovation Partnerships, Buka Gurgenidze-Steinau, Associate Director of Artificial Intelligence, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center

Associate Director of Artificial Intelligence, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center Dr. Kathryn Wifvat, Data Science Expert and AI Strategist, Advancing cutting-edge learning and workforce-upskilling solutions

Data Science Expert and AI Strategist, Advancing cutting-edge learning and workforce-upskilling solutions Michael Fallquist, CEO, Energywell  "Energy Crisis, Rising Costs, and What Businesses Can Do to Stabilize and Thrive."

Rising Costs, and What Businesses Can Do to Stabilize and Thrive." Kateryna Odarchenko, CEO, SIC Group USA LLC  "Building Influence in Washington, D.C.: The Intersection of Government Relations and Reputation."

 "Building Influence in Washington, D.C.: The Intersection of Government Relations and Reputation." Dr. Vladimir Bozovic, Consul General of the Republic of Serbia in New York  "Business and Relations with Foreign Countries."

 "Business and Relations with Foreign Countries." Duvi Honig, Founder and CEO, Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce  "Minority Status and Pathways to Certification  Empowering Business Growth Through Inclusion." As Chair of World Trade Week USA Gala Event, Honig's leadership continues to unite business and government through commerce and collaboration.

Doing Business in N.J. Panel

Senator Gordon M. Johnson (N.J.) Assistant Majority Leader - District 37

(N.J.) Assistant Majority Leader - District 37 Kathy Guzman, New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)  "Grow Your Small Business with NJEDA Grants and Loans."

 "Grow Your Small Business with NJEDA Grants and Loans." John Anthony Tabacco, Host of Newsmax's "WiseGuys" - (show will be shot live at J-Biz this year)  A globally recognized capital markets a nd blockchain expert, cofounder and former president of tZERO, and the architect of Overstock.com's Bitcoin adoption strategy, Tabacco has led multi-billion-dollar market innovations and currently advises Trump Media & Technology Group and Newsmax Media.



Special Feature: Newsmax's "WiseGuys" will be filmed live on site at JBiz Expo 2025, capturing interviews with top business and government leaders.

nd blockchain expert, cofounder and former president of tZERO, and the architect of Overstock.com's adoption strategy, Tabacco has led multi-billion-dollar market innovations and currently advises Trump Media & Technology Group and Newsmax Media. Dr. Emily Brearley, Senior Economist at the World Bank, closes the track with "Inclusive Growth and Smart Solutions for a Sustainable Global Future," connecting innovation, inclusion, and investment into one framework for long-term stability.

The JBiz Media Summit: Strengthening Media Truth and Unity

The Media Summit Track represents a bold new movement  uniting journalists, anchors, and media executives from across the political and professional spectrum to rebuild trust and integrity in modern communication. In a time when misinformation undermines confidence in both government and markets, the Media Summit provides a platform for dialogue, cooperation, and shared responsibility.

Featured Media Presenters Include:

Jeff Katz  Award-Winning Broadcaster and Host of "The Jeff Katz Show" (WRVA), Columnist for The Boston Herald. A respected voice in American radio and print journalism, Katz blends wit, wisdom, and conviction to explore truth in modern broadcasting.

Topic: Speaking the Truth in Broadcasting  Courage, Integrity, and Conviction in Modern Media.

 Award-Winning Broadcaster and Host of "The Jeff Katz Show" (WRVA), Columnist for The Boston Herald. A respected voice in American radio and print journalism, Katz blends wit, wisdom, and conviction to explore truth in modern broadcasting. Topic: Ryan McBeth  Intelligence Analyst, Cybersecurity Expert, and YouTube Creator on Military and Disinformation Topics. McBeth is known for his in-depth analysis of intelligence operations, cybersecurity, and counter-misinformation strategies.

Topic: After-Action Review for the Israeli Defense Forces  Lessons in Strategy, Preparedness, and Resilience .

 Intelligence Analyst, Cybersecurity Expert, and YouTube Creator on Military and Disinformation Topics. McBeth is known for his in-depth analysis of intelligence operations, cybersecurity, and counter-misinformation strategies. Topic: . Hilary Fordwich  Corporate Speaker and Global Business Commentator

A frequent television contributor and client-retention strategist, Fordwich focuses on how values, credibility, and ethics drive sustainable media and business relationships.

Topic: "Values and Credibility as Cornerstones of Sustainable Media Commerce."

 Corporate Speaker and Global Business Commentator A frequent television contributor and client-retention strategist, Fordwich focuses on how values, credibility, and ethics drive sustainable media and business relationships. Topic: "Values and Credibility as Cornerstones of Sustainable Media Commerce." Ryan Vargas  CoHost of "The Stone-Zone with Roger Stone" Podcast

Vargas brings a behind-the-scenes look at political media and investigative reporting.

Topic: Identifying and Analyzing News Effectively and Accurately .

 CoHost of "The Stone-Zone with Roger Stone" Podcast Vargas brings a behind-the-scenes look at political media and investigative reporting. Topic: . Chris Arps, is cohost of "The Tim Jones & Chris Arps Show" on NewsTalkSTL, known for his influential voice in conservative media and grassroots leadership.Topic: Speaking Truth Through Political Media  Building Bridges Between Grassroots Leadership and National Discourse

A limited number of exhibit tables and sponsorship packages are available, offering prime visibility, VIP access, and one-on-one engagement with leaders shaping the future of business and media.

The program is still in formation, with additional speakers, chambers, and international delegations to be announced. For Hotel accommodations, exhibitor reservations, and sponsorship opportunities visit www.JBizExpo.com. Early registration is strongly encouraged as space is limited.

Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce, [email protected] or 212-659-5270 x104 www.JBizExpo.com and www.ojchamber.com

SOURCE Orthodox Jewish Chamber of Commerce
Former Curator of Savoy Automobile Museum appointed as VP of Curation and Education at LeMay  America's Car Museum

TACOMA, Wash., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- America's Automotive Trust is proud to announce the appointment of Bruce Patton as Vice President of Curation and Education for LeMay  America's Car Museum. Patton joins the organization with an impressive multi-decade career in the automotive industry particularly at Bosch. He also has strong knowledge of automotive history and the collector community most recently serving as Curator of Savoy Automobile Museum in Georgia. At Savoy, he led curation of world-class displays celebrating the art and innovation of the automobile, fostering public connection with the stories behind the vehicles and their creators.

AAT is proud to announce the appointment of Bruce Patton as Vice President of Curation and Education. Post this Bruce Patton - Newly Appointed Vice President of Curation and Education at America's Automotive Trust

In his new role at America's Automotive Trust, Patton will oversee the Museum's exhibition strategy, collection stewardship, and educational programming, helping to advance ACM's mission to preserve automotive heritage and celebrate car culture. Curation of the Collection will also include shaping it for effectiveness in promoting the Trust's national activities.

"We are absolutely delighted to have Bruce join us as our first Vice President for Curation and Education of the Trust," said David Madeira, CEO of America's Automotive Trust. "Bruce's experience, knowledge of the automobile, connections in the industry and collector community will bring us Curatorial leadership at a level we have never enjoyed. Bruce's passion for education prompted us to bring that important department under his stewardship as well. As the Trust undertakes development of a Robotics and Innovation Center at America's Car Museum, Bruce will provide us with the leadership necessary for success."

"I look forward to working with the Curatorial and Education teams in place at America's Automotive Trust to help expand and build on the incredible work that has already been accomplished," said Bruce Patton. "With the assistance of our Board Members and newly appointed CEO Joe Jacuzzi, the future looks very bright for increasing the Museum's reach for expanding the curiosity of our youth through the Robotics and Innovation Center. We will also investigate making slight modifications to our vehicle curation and programming cycles to help promote additional attendance, membership, and support of the Museum."

Bruce will be reporting to recently announced new CEO of America's Automotive Trust Joe Jacuzzi. Under Bruce's leadership, the Museum will continue to expand its programming and showcase new perspectives on automotive artistry, design, and cultural impact  reflecting the institution's national role as a hub for enthusiasts, educators, and families alike.

About America's Automotive Trust

America's Automotive Trust works to preserve America's automotive heritage and inspire the next generation of enthusiasts and innovators by bringing together like-minded organizations that honor the past, celebrate the present, and drive the future of car culture to make a greater impact. Founding member organizations LeMay  America's Car Museum, RPM Foundation, and premier membership programs Club Auto and Concours Club, as well as our affiliated partners, work together to foster a strong community where any enthusiast can thrive  from the classroom, to careers, to the open road. America's Automotive Trust is a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, visit americasautomotivetrust.org.

For the latest news, stories, photos and videos, visit americasautomotivetrust.org/aat-news

CONTACT:

Jake Welk  Marketing Manager

253.225.5623

[email protected]

SOURCE America's Automotive Trust
Surveying 6,500+ creators, the report finds 87% already use AI tools as focus shifts from execution to vision

TEL AVIV, Israel, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Artlist, a creative technology company empowering creators with the latest AI tools, today released the Artlist AI Trend Report 2026. The report is an in-depth look at how AI is reshaping the creative industry.

Artlist: Get the top AI trends in 2026

Drawing insights from industry leaders, Artlist experts, and over 6,500 creators worldwide, the report reveals how AI is changing creative workflows, raising the bar on execution, and moving competitive advantage to vision, taste, and human direction. Packed with actionable insights and data, the report is a must-read for brands and creators who want to stay ahead of the curve.

The top 5 trends and key takeaways of the Artlist AI Trend Report 2026 include:

1. The third wave of democratization

AI has unlocked a new creative era, where high-end production is accessible to all. Professional polish is the new baseline, not a differentiator. As proof, the focus has shifted from execution to strategy, with 63% of creators now focused on commercial rights and viability.

2. Get up to AI speed

The speed of creation has exploded. Bold ideas once shelved are now visualized in seconds, with full-scale concepts and instant feedback. This velocity demands a new workflow, with 37% using AI to explore concepts faster and 26% citing quicker post-production.

3. The rise of the AI creative director

AI is automating technical skills, making human direction the new differentiator. The most valuable creatives will have a clear vision, taste, and strategic thinking. 30% of creators predict AI's biggest impact will be the endless creative possibilities, enabling entirely new ideas and formats.



4. Authenticity 3.0

As AI blurs real from fake, transparency becomes everything. Audiences want to understand how AI actually works. Creators who openly share their AI process, guides, prompts, and human decisions transparently will lead. Creators sharing AI insights are already increasing their followers by 100% in just 30 days, signaling 2026 could be the best time to be a content creator.

5. You can't fake a real experience

The report identifies a key counter-trend. With everyone fighting for eyeballs online, the power move is breaking out of the scroll entirely. It predicts the smartest creators will use AI as an ideation engine to design real-world moments people can "touch, taste, and talk about"  creating the tangible bonds that screens can't replicate.

"AI now handles the how, freeing creators to focus on the what" said Itzik Elbaz, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Artlist. "While technology has automated creation, it has elevated the value of a brilliant idea, a unique story, or a genuine creative vision. The human with taste and direction has never been more essential."

"It's not just about faster creation, it's about unlocking creative freedom. Now, anyone can create professional-quality work without the traditional barriers. This democratization changes everything. It's the creative playground for the next generation," said Ira Belsky, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Artlist.

Download the Artlist Trend Report 2026 here: https://artlist.io/blog/trend-report-2026

PR images and assets here.

About Artlist

Artlist is a leading creative technology company on a mission to empower creators and brands to bring their vision to life with video. Offering cutting-edge AI tools and models for image, video, and voiceover creation, alongside high-quality creative assets and powerful editing tools, Artlist enables creators to stay on trend and achieve their creative goals. Trusted by over 30 million creators worldwide and top brands including Google, Amazon, Microsoft, and Versace, Artlist provides a seamless, subscription-based platform with a global license, giving creators everything they need to produce professional video content efficiently. For more information, visit artlist.io.

Contact:

Ravit Shimony

PR and Communications Manager, Artlist

[email protected]

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBHCxMSoO2U

SOURCE Artlist Ltd
The legislation, previously approved by the House of Representatives, is expected to reach the US president in the coming hours, and he has promised to sign it

After the overwhelming support of the House of Representatives  427 votes in favor and one against  the 100 members of the United States Senate unanimously agreed on Tuesday to send the Epstein Files Transparency Act to the White House without any changes. The act requires the Department of Justice to declassify documents related to the case of the disgraced financier.

They did so even before the text had officially reached them for review and a vote. This means that as soon as it arrives in the Senate, it will automatically move to President Donald Trumps desk. Although he has spent months opposing the release of these materials, he has now promised to sign the act as soon as possible.

The urgency came from Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer, who around 5:00 p.m. (Washington time), just hours after the House vote, forced what Capitol Hill calls unanimous consent, eliminating the possibility that the bill might stall in the upper chamber. This is about giving the American people the transparency theyve been crying for, Schumer said before promoting the bills approval. Jeffrey Epsteins victims have waited long enough.

Vigil organized by Epstein's victims on Tuesday afternoon at the U.S. Capitol. Annabelle Gordon (REUTERS)

It was unclear whether the president would sign the bill Tuesday night, as he had a scheduled dinner with Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, whom Trump hosted that morning at the White House. When asked by a reporter about the atrocious 2018 murder of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, a Washington Post columnist, Trump replied: Things happen. U.S. intelligence services confirmed Bin Salmans involvement. The presidential signature was ultimately postponed until Wednesday.

The presidents response

Trump, who tends to lose his temper when the subject of the Epstein files arises, reacted to the news that the Senate also supported their release with a message on his social media platform, Truth Social. I dont care when the Senate passes the House bill, whether tonight or at some other time in the near future; I just dont want Republicans to take their eyes off all of the victories that weve had, he wrote, before proceeding to list those achievements, which were a mix of lies, half-truths, and exaggerations.

After weeks of pressure against the bill, the president  who was Epsteins friend for 15 years  gave Republican lawmakers permission last Sunday to vote in favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act. Although he did not go as far as he could have: he has the authority to order the release of the files without Congressional approval but has chosen not to do so. The documents could expose the involvement of dozens of wealthy and influential men in Epsteins sex trafficking ring, as well as the complicity of financial institutions and legal entities, or the failures of authorities that allowed him to act with impunity.

It is also unclear what will happen next once Trump signs the bill, as he has promised. Nor is it clear when or how the Department of Justice will comply with the obligation to publish the files. Attorney General Pam Bondi announced last July that the Department of Justice did not plan to release the papers, despite having promised for months that it would.

In its possession are millions of unpublished documents containing information about Epsteins sex trafficking network. It is expected that they also include information on who was aware of or participated in the operation between the early 1990s and his death (a suicide, according to the coroner). Epstein died in 2019 while being held in a maximum-security cell in Manhattan.

The question now is whether the Department of Justice intends to resist releasing the files, arguing that there are ongoing judicial investigations. Everything depends on whether the presidents orders to Attorney General Bondi  that she investigate Epsteins connections to prominent Democrats  are carried out.

Last Friday, in a move that violates the principle of separation of powers in the United States, Trump asked Bondi to open investigations only against prominent Democrats whose names have appeared in the successive releases of documents. He cited three: former president Bill Clinton; Larry Summers, former president of Harvard; and Democratic megadonor Reid Hoffman.

U.S. law prohibits the release of materials from a case file while the case remains active, and Democrats fear that Trumps administration will use this as a justification to continue refusing to publish the documents.

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Attributes Growth to Class-Leading Marketing Technology and Long-Term Relationships with Clients and Their Channel Partners.

CHICAGO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Cooperate Marketing today announced it ranked No. 231 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 31st year. As a first-time recipient, Cooperate Marketing grew 349% during this period.

2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 Logo - Cooperate Marketing Ranked #231

"It is an honor and privilege to be a recipient of this prestigious award and a defining milestone for Cooperate, representing years of revenue growth," said Founder and CEO Brian Fourman. "This achievement belongs to our entire team  our amazing employees building and maintaining cutting-edge technology and our phenomenal clients that trust us to deliver exceptional results. Kudos to all of these individuals for making this happen, as it was truly a team effort. And thank you to Deloitte for recognizing and awarding us with this achievement."

"This year's rankings highlight both enduring leadership and breakthrough momentum," said Wolfe Tone, US Deloitte Private & Emerging Client Portfolio leader and partner, Deloitte Tax LLP. "More than half of the winners are prior honorees, yet the majority of the top ten are first-time entrants  demonstrating the staying power of established leaders alongside the accelerating growth of new innovators across key sectors. As in previous years, private companies continue to dominate, underscoring the agility that private enterprises bring to competitive markets, enabling the exceptional triple and quadruple digit growth reflected in these rankings."

"Being recognized on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 is an incredible feat and a testament to our team continuing to redefine how channel marketing and cooperative advertising programs should work," said Ryan Parker, Director of Operations and Growth. "As we near our 10-year mark, it's clear that our 'high tech, high touch' approach and bespoke, proprietary platforms bring the efficiency and scale clients require. And when you pair that with a team capable of solving complex business challenges with both creativity and clarity, you get solutions that are as strategic as they are human-centered. That's what fuels stronger channel partnerships, greater program participation, and measurable growth. I cannot wait to see where we go from here."

About Cooperate Marketing:

Cooperate brings a fresh perspective to channel marketing, agency services & platform solutions, grounded in a firmly-held belief that stronger channel partnerships build both bottom line results and brand affinity. Combining a "high tech" customized proprietary cloud-based program management and administration platform with onshore, "high touch" concierge-level service & support, Cooperate establishes greater program participation, and increased channel partner satisfaction for their growing roster of clients. Cooperate is an Inc 5000 recipient (2024 and 2025) as one of the fastest growing privately held companies in America.

www.cooperatemarketing.com

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US $50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US $5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.

SOURCE Cooperate Marketing
Good Growth Capital together with Meach Cove Capital and other Global Investors Support Next Commercial Milestone Following Successful Honeybee Vaccine Launch; Dalan's European Subsidiary Receives Additional 250K Grant for Pan European Surveillance of Honeybee Diseases

ATHENS, Ga., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dalan Animal Health, Inc., the pioneering bioscience company that developed the world's first vaccine for invertebrates, today announced the successful closure of a $3 million SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) funding round. The round included Good Growth Capital together with Meach Cove Capital and other global investors, marking increased international recognition of Dalan's breakthrough Innate Immunity Platform technology.

The new funding will advance the commercialization of Dalan's first-in-class shrimp vaccine, addressing one of the most significant disease challenges in global aquaculture and representing the company's next major milestone following the successful launch of its honeybee vaccine. In parallel, Dalan will continue to expand its platform across new species, exploring novel applications for poultry, and other aquaculture species where its technology has the potential to enable broad-spectrum disease prevention and reduce dependence on antibiotics.

"This funding round represents a pivotal moment as we advance from our proven success in honeybees to commercializing our groundbreaking shrimp vaccine," said Dr. Annette Kleiser, CEO and Founder of Dalan Animal Health. "The participation of sophisticated global investors like Good Growth Capital and Meach Cove Capital validates both our immediate commercial opportunity in aquaculture and the broader potential of our Innate Immunity Platform to address disease prevention challenges across multiple species."

As part of the investment, Harris Komishane, General Partner at Meach Cove Capital, will join Dalan's Board of Directors as an observer, bringing valuable strategic insight to support the company's commercialization and growth. "We believe Dalan's pioneering approach to protecting vital animal species through its cutting-edge vaccination technology is game changing," said Mr. Komishane.

Advancing Shrimp Vaccine Commercialization

The funds will primarily support the commercialization of Dalan's shrimp vaccine, which addresses a critical gap in health management practices in the global aquaculture industry. With the shrimp industry facing up to $4 billion in annual losses from diseases like White Spot Syndrome Virus, Dalan's vaccine represents the first viable prevention solution for one of the world's most valuable seafood sectors.

Recent breakthrough results from clinical trials have demonstrated the vaccine's efficacy against major shrimp pathogens, positioning the company to advance toward regulatory approval and commercial launch. The funding will support manufacturing scale-up, regulatory pathway completion, and market development activities necessary for successful commercial deployment.

Platform Expansion and Future Applications

While prioritizing shrimp vaccine commercialization, Dalan will also use the funding to continue expanding its platform across new species. The company's proprietary Innate Immunity Platform leverages conserved pattern recognition receptors found across all animal speciesimmune system components that have remained highly conserved through millions of years of evolution.

The platform expansion will explore applications in poultry, and additional aquaculture species where broad-spectrum disease prevention could address significant unmet medical needs and reduce reliance on antibiotics in food production.

"Dalan's vaccine is already proving transformative in the protection of bees, critical to our food sources. Adding the shrimp vaccine, addressing the world's largest seafood protein, is not only a huge market, but is proving Dalan's platform technology is applicable to many species," said Maureen Stancik Boyce, PhD, Founder and Managing Partner of Good Growth Capital.

European Operations Strengthened with Research Grant

In addition to the SAFE round, Dalan announced that its European subsidiary, Dalan Bio SL, has been awarded a 250K Grant for Pan European Surveillance of Honeybee Diseases by the Spanish Ministry of Science, Center for the Development of Industrial Technologies and Innovation (CDTI - E.P.E.). This grant will support European market entry, demonstrating growing international recognition of Dalan's technology.

The European grant, combined with the global investor participation in the SAFE round, reflects increasing worldwide interest in Dalan's approach to disease prevention and the platform's potential for international market applications.

About Good Growth Capital

Good Growth Capital is a global investment firm focused on companies developing sustainable solutions for major global challenges. The firm invests in innovative technologies addressing food security, environmental sustainability, and human health.

About Meach Cove Capital

Meach Cove Capital is an investment firm focused on supporting innovative biotechnology companies developing transformative solutions for global health and sustainability challenges.

About Dalan Animal Health

Dalan Animal Health (www.dalan.com) is dedicated to bringing the world transformative animal health solutions to support a more sustainable future. As the pioneer in invertebrate vaccines, Dalan developed the world's first USDA-approved vaccine for honeybees and is advancing the first vaccine for shrimp using its proprietary Innate Immunity Platform technology. The company's platform leverages conserved immune pathways to provide broad-spectrum disease protection across multiple animal species. Dalan's biotech innovation has been recognized through numerous international awards including TIME's Best Inventions, Fast Company's Next Big Things in Tech, and SVG THRIVE Global Impact Challenge winner (2025).

For more information about Dalan's vaccines and animal health solutions, visit www.dalan.com.

Forward-Looking Statements

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding shrimp vaccine commercialization, platform expansion, species applications, and market opportunities. These statements are based on current expectations and involve risks and uncertainties. Actual results may differ materially due to regulatory requirements, technical challenges, market conditions, and other factors beyond the company's control.

SOURCE Dalan Animal Health, Inc.
DALLAS, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Dialectic Therapeutics, Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing innovative anti-cancer drugs, today announced that patient dosing is underway in a clinical trial led by the renowned Drs. Elizabeth Stover, Joyce Liu, and Ursula Matulonis from the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. Dr. Matulonis previously served as the Principal Investigator for the study that led to a recent FDA approval in platinum-resistant ovarian cancer (PROC).

Dr. Stover, the principal investigator and IND-holder of the study, has recruited the first two patients, with more now being considered for eligibility in this extraordinarily exciting trial. For more information about the trial, including eligibility criteria, call 877-338-7425 or visit: https://www.dana-farber.org/clinical-trials/25-076.

"The advance of DT2216 to this Phase 1b/2 trial represents a critical milestone, driven by compelling data from our Phase 1a and preclinical studies. We have a remarkable opportunity to impact patients' lives and are grateful for the leadership of our world-class collaborators at Harvard and Dana-Farber," said John D. Harkey Jr., Executive Chairman of Dialectic Therapeutics, Inc.

"New therapeutic options are very much needed for our patients with platinum-resistant ovarian cancer. The preclinical data is extremely compelling in terms of the likelihood of translating to the clinical setting, and we are very excited to test weekly paclitaxel and DT2216 for ovarian cancer," stated Dr. Ursula Matulonis, Chief of the Division of Gynecologic Oncology at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute and professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School.

Dr. Stover's trial builds on the Phase 1a clinical data and the preclinical results, generated by Dialectic and Harvard School of Public Health, which demonstrate complete tumor eradication in both in vivo and in vitro ovarian cancer models.

"The preclinical efficacy observed with DT2216 and paclitaxel is among the strongest results we have seen in preclinical models of high-grade serous ovarian cancer. It's exciting to be able to bring a new potential treatment option to the clinic for our patients," said Dr. Elizabeth Stover, Assistant Professor of Medicine at Harvard Medical School and a medical oncologist in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology.

DT2216 is a novel therapeutic designed to potently and selectively degrade BCL-XL, a key protein used by cancer cells to evade death.

The company's completed Phase 1a trial enrolled and treated 20 patients across six dose-escalating cohorts. This study established a recommended Phase 2 dose (RP2D) demonstrating a favorable safety and tolerability profile. Biomarkers from patients receiving the RP2D showed that DT2216 degraded the intended BCL-XL target protein in all patients within this dosing cohort, demonstrating powerful and precise target engagement.

In collaboration with Dr. Kristopher Sarosiek at Harvard School of Public Health, the effects of DT2216 were evaluated in cancer cell line and patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of high-grade serous ovarian carcinoma (HGSOC), including OVCAR3 and the highly chemo-resistant DF83 PDX model. The combination of paclitaxel and DT2216 induced rapid tumor regressions and eradicated the tumors completely. Notably, tumors showed no evidence of regrowth after DT2216 treatment was discontinued.

"As a lab that investigates how tumor cells commit to cell death, we're encouraged by how cleanly the biology matches the pharmacology. DT2216 selectively engages the target  BCL-X L  and potently initiates tumor cell death in combination with paclitaxel. It's exactly the trajectory we hope to replicate in patients," stated Dr. Sarosiek, Director of the Cell Death Laboratory at Harvard School of Public Health. "We've long sought to develop innovative therapies that directly target the proteins responsible for making tumor cells resistant to treatment, and DT2216 offers us the opportunity to finally achieve this in patients."

For more information about the company, please visit www.dtsciences.com

About Dialectic Therapeutics, Inc.

Dialectic Therapeutics, Inc. is a Texas-based, clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on creating innovative new technologies to treat cancer. True to the Socratic origins of its name, Dialectic embodies the pursuit of truth through rigorous scientific inquiry, challenging long-held assumptions regarding BCL-XL inhibition to identify breakthrough treatments. Dialectic has received multiple grants from the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT), including a Seed and Company Product Research grant to support the continued clinical development of DT2216 [DP210005].

Contact:

Joshua Sills, Chief Operating Officer

Email: [email protected]

SOURCE Dialectic Therapeutics, Inc.
The jointly created retail technology solutions and services model serves as a blueprint for expansion into additional countries

NORTH CANTON, Ohio, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a world leader in transforming the way people bank and shop, has successfully supported the Swiss market expansion of ROSSMANN, one of Europe's largest drugstore chains. The scope of support includes comprehensive Managed Services provided via Diebold Nixdorf's eServices portal and retail technologies such as self-checkout and point-of-sale (POS) systems.

Diebold Nixdorf provides comprehensive Managed Services for ROSSMANN's in-store IT systems like self-checkouts

The successful rollout of services and retail technology to the first stores in Switzerland is based on a jointly created model for operating, monitoring and servicing ROSSMANN's store technology infrastructure in Germany. Since beginning its partnership in 2021, Diebold Nixdorf has supported over 2,350 German ROSSMANN stores with POS systems, self-service checkouts and related services. A recent expansion of the collaboration  now encompassing the entire German store hardware infrastructure and additional services, including software installation and inventory management  created the successful blueprint in Switzerland that will serve as a basis for future ROSSMANN expansion in other European locations.

Over the next two years, plans are to connect additional end devices to the eServices portal, including ROSSMANN's back-office PCs. These are currently being replaced with Diebold Nixdorf's DN Series BEETLE M2110 POS systems.

Alexander Blanckarts, head of IT Operations at ROSSMANN, said: "The dynamic development and smooth operation of our IT infrastructure are our top priorities. To achieve this, we rely on the expertise and technology provided by Diebold Nixdorf, a trusted partner that reliably supports us. This partnership enables us to consistently offer our customers and employees high-quality, state-of-the-art solutions that run securely and reliably."

Leyla Feghhi, head of Retail Sales in the DACH region at Diebold Nixdorf, said: "We are delighted to expand our partnership with ROSSMANN, underscoring the great success of our collaboration to date. Through our retail technology solutions and Managed Services, we are laying the foundation for improved customer experiences, increased sales and optimized total cost of ownership."

About ROSSMANN

The company's history began in 1972, when Dirk Romann opened Germany's first self-service drugstore. Today, Dirk Rossmann GmbH is one of Europe's largest drugstore chains, with 65,500 employees and 4,966 stores. In 2024, the ROSSMANN Group generated sales of 15.3 billion in Germany, Poland, Hungary, Czechia, Albania, Kosovo, Spain, Denmark (online), Switzerland, and Turkey. To this day, Dirk Rossmann GmbH remains an owner-managed, internationally active family business and is majority-owned by the Romann family.

About Diebold Nixdorf

Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), Incorporated, automates, digitizes and transforms the way people bank and shop. As a partner to the majority of the world's top 100 financial institutions and top 25 global retailers, our integrated solutions connect digital and physical channels conveniently, securely and efficiently for millions of consumers each day. The company has a presence in more than 100 countries with approximately 21,000 employees worldwide. Visit www.dieboldnixdorf.com for more information.

X: @DieboldNixdorf

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/diebold

Facebook: www.facebook.com/DieboldNixdorf

YouTube: www.youtube.com/dieboldnixdorf

DN-R

SOURCE Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated
AUSTIN, Texas, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Fringe Benefit Group, a leading provider of benefit solutions for staffing companies, restaurants, retail outlets and government contractors, today announced it has been recognized as one of Austin's Top Workplaces for 2025. The Top Workplaces list is determined entirely by employee feedback and is published by the Austin American-Statesman.

FBG ranked 13th among medium-size Austin area companies (150-499 employees) in the 2025 survey, which was conducted by Energage, the HR technology company powering the Top Workplaces program. The Top Workplaces recognition is based entirely on employee feedback measured across more than a dozen culture drivers that reflect strong values, employee/manager communication, and the ability to innovate and operate efficiently.

This recognition follows four additional Top Workplaces awards FBG earned in 2025, which include Top Workplaces USA for Remote Work, and three Cultural Excellence Awards  Appreciation, Employee Well-Being, and Professional Development.

"My father founded FBG in 1983 to support government contractors, and since then we have expanded to serve clients in multiple industries that face challenges offering traditional benefits  especially companies with hourly and part-time workers. Our growth is a direct result of our outstanding employees, who embrace collaboration and teamwork to serve our clients. Being recognized by our employees for our corporate culture is an incredible honor," said Travis West, CEO of FBG.

About Fringe Benefit Group: Fringe Benefit Group has more than 40 years of experience of providing benefit solutions to government contractors, restaurants, retail and staffing companies. Through its products The American Worker and The Contractors Plan, FBG offers benefits from the nation's leading carriers and delivers a full-service suite of tools that streamline enrollment and plan administration. FBG partners with a nationwide network of brokers and agents and is known for its commitment to service, compliance expertise and technology innovation. Visit fbg.com, contractorsplan.com or theamericanworker.com.

For more information, contact:

Melinda Hart, PR for Fringe Benefit Group, [email protected], P: 210 240 4669

SOURCE Fringe Benefit Group
Held commemorative ceremony for the delivery of 5,000 ships at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan on the 19th

Delivered to more than 700 shipowners across 68 countriesmarking a milestone achieved half a century after the first vessel delivery

"Reaching 5,000 ships is a symbol of pride for Korea's shipbuilding industrywe will continue to forge ahead toward the next 50 years"

SEOUL, South Korea, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- HD Hyundai has become the world's first shipbuilder to build and deliver 5,000 ships, marking half a century since its first vessel delivery in 1974.

"HD Hyundai recently delivered the second Philippine patrol vessel, the 'Diego Silang'." The delivery and naming ceremony of the 'Atlantic Baron', a 260,000-ton ultra-large crude oil carrier, which was the very first vessel constructed by HD Hyundai Heavy Industries at its Ulsan shipyard and delivered in June 1974. Participants pose for a group photo during HD Hyundais ceremony marking the delivery of its 5,000th vessel, held on the 19th at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan

HD Hyundai announced that it held a ceremony on Wednesday, November 19, at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan to celebrate delivering a total of 5,000 ships. The event was attended by HD Hyundai Chairman Chung Kisun; National Assembly members Kim Taeseon (Ulsan Dong-gu) and Yoon Jong-o (Ulsan Buk-gu); Park Dong-il, Director General at the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources; Ahn Byung-gil, CEO of the Korea Ocean Business Corporation; and Park Jong-seug, Chairman of Korea Marine Transport Co. (and Chairman of the Korea Shipowners' Association).

The 5,000th vessel delivered by HD Hyundai is the Diego Silang, the second offshore patrol vessel built for the Philippine Navy. Measuring 118.4 meters in length and 14.9 meters in width, the state-of-the-art vessel reaches a cruising speed of 15 knots (28 km/h) and has a range of 4,500 nautical miles (8,330 km). It was launched in March and delivered to the Philippine Navy in October. HD Hyundai has secured contracts to build a total of ten naval vessels for the Philippines.

Since delivering its first vesselthe 260,000-ton Very Large Crude Oil Carrier Atlantic Baronin 1974, HD Hyundai has provided ships to more than 700 shipowners across 68 countries, culminating in the latest delivery of the Diego Silang.

In detail, HD Hyundai Heavy Industries has delivered 2,631 vessels, HD Hyundai Mipo has delivered 1,570 vessels, and HD Hyundai Samho has delivered 799 vessels. This record-setting achievement has not been matched even by European or Japanese shipbuilders, despite their much longer shipbuilding histories.

Assuming an average vessel length of 250 meters, the combined length of 5,000 ships reaches approximately 1,250 kilometers. This distance exceeds the straight-line distance from Seoul to Tokyo (about 1,150 kilometers) and is more than 140 times the height of Mount Everest (approximately 8,800 meters).

Chairman Chung stated, "Our 5,000-vessel milestone represents the pride of Korea's shipbuilding industry and the history of bold challenges that have reshaped the global maritime paradigm." He continued, "Building on this shared legacy of innovation, we will move confidently toward the next 5,000 vesselsand the next half century."

Meanwhile, HD Hyundai's three shipbuilding subsidiaries delivered a total of 144 vessels in 2024, including container ships, LNG carriers, and product carriers.

SOURCE HD Hyundai
The legislation, developed through historic cooperation among the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association (MHA), the Massachusetts Nurses Association (MNA), and 1199SEIU Massachusetts, represents a unified statewide commitment to addressing violence in hospitals and protecting frontline workers. While the groups had supported similar but separate proposals in previous sessions, this marks the first time that a single, consensus piece of workplace violence legislation has been proposed and advanced by the three organizations. The bill garnered substantial legislative support prior to its passage, with 68 sponsors. The lead sponsors are Representative John Lawn (D-Watertown) and Senator Joan Lovely (D-Salem).

Lawmakers' support for the legislation reflects a growing recognition that the crisis of violence in healthcare can no longer be ignored. Every 36 minutes, a worker in a Massachusetts hospital is subject to an act of violence or a threat. Nurses and healthcare workers experience violent incidents at least five times more often than the average private sector worker.

"Our healthcare workforce has endured violence at alarming rates for far too long," said Katie Murphy, a practicing ICU nurse and President of the Massachusetts Nurses Association. "This House vote is a powerful acknowledgment of the crisis and an important step toward ensuring every healthcare worker has the protection we need to safely care for our patients. We thank everyone who supported this legislation, especially the MNA nurses and healthcare professionals who have long fought for these safeguards, our partners at MHA and 1199SEIU, and the lawmakers who stood with us."

"This legislation is about a basic promise we owe every frontline healthcare worker: a safe environment to treat patients in need of care," said Steve Walsh, President and CEO of the Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association (MHA). "We are grateful for the House's support as our hospitals, the MNA, and 1199SEIU continue to collaborate to stem the tide of the current workplace violence crisis  especially as our healthcare system remains under significant strain."

"Workplace violence is a very real and serious problem for the entire care team," said Cari Medina, Executive Vice President of 1199SEIU. "1199SEIU strongly supports this bill that will directly engage caregivers in developing facility-specific risk assessments and a comprehensive violence prevention program for hospitals. We thank Chair Lawn, Speaker Mariano and the full House for advancing this critical effort to make caregivers safer while strengthening the Commonwealth's healthcare system."

The bill features comprehensive policy reform designed to reduce workplace violence by:

Requiring all hospitals to complete facility-specific risk assessments and implement comprehensive violence prevention programs tailored to those findings.

Engaging frontline staff in developing assessments and prevention plans, ensuring workforce-informed training, and making written plans available to all employees and labor organizations.

Strengthening enforcement through DPH licensing requirements, regular reporting, and enhanced job protections for workers, including additional paid leave for employees who are assaulted.

Massachusetts nurses and healthcare workers report high rates of being punched, kicked, bitten, and subject to verbal and physical threats on the job. Thousands of injuries occur annually, even as many incidents go unreported. Workforce shortages and strains, unstandardized security prevention and planning, and a lack of appropriate consequences all contribute to these unacceptably dangerous working conditions.

About Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association

The Massachusetts Health & Hospital Association (MHA) serves as the unified voice for Massachusetts hospitals and healthcare providers. Founded in 1936, MHA represents over 100 hospitals, healthcare partners, and patients across the state. Through advocacy, education, and collaboration, MHA's mission is to improve the overall health of the commonwealth and support providers' efforts to offer high-quality, affordable, and accessible care.

About Massachusetts Nurses Association

Founded in 1903, the Massachusetts Nurses Association is the largest union of registered nurses in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Its 26,000 members advance the nursing profession by fostering high standards of nursing practice, promoting the economic and general welfare of nurses in the workplace, projecting a positive and realistic view of nursing, and by lobbying the Legislature and regulatory agencies on health care issues affecting nurses and the public.

About 1199SEIU, United Healthcare Workers East

1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East is the largest and fastest-growing healthcare union in America. We represent over 400,000 nurses and caregivers throughout Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, Maryland, Washington, D.C. and Florida. Our mission is to achieve quality care and good jobs for all.

SOURCE Massachusetts Nurses Association

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New semiconductor nanofabrication facility will support advanced research and workforce development opportunities

YORKTOWN HEIGHTS, N.Y. and DAYTON, Ohio, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- IBM (NYSE: IBM) and the University of Dayton today announced an agreement for the joint research and development of next-generation semiconductor technologies and materials. The collaboration aims to advance critical technologies for the age of AI including AI hardware, advanced packaging, and photonics.

To support the collaboration, IBM will contribute state-of-the-art semiconductor equipment to the University of Dayton for a new semiconductor nanofabrication facility on the university's campus. With a planned completion in early 2027, the facility will serve as a hub for advanced semiconductor research and workforce development, providing hands-on, lab-to-fab learning opportunities for University of Dayton students and researchers.

Additionally, the research initiatives under this agreement will be guided by a dedicated University of Dayton faculty member and IBM Technical Leader, giving students and researchers the opportunity to work side-by-side with industry and academic experts.

"This is an important moment for the University of Dayton. Deepening our relationship with IBM with this research collaboration will help position UD as a leader in semiconductor and emerging technology research and enable our faculty and students to conduct groundbreaking work," said Eric F. Spina, President, University of Dayton. "I'm grateful to IBM for their state-of-the-art equipment contributions estimated at over $10M which will position us to educate the next generation of talented engineers trained for the modern economy."

"This collaboration continues IBM's tradition of bringing together industry and academia to fuel innovation," said James Kavanaugh, Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, IBM. "Students and researchers at the University of Dayton will have exciting opportunities to contribute to the next wave of chip and hardware breakthroughs that are essential for the AI era."

This agreement builds on a longstanding relationship between IBM and the University of Dayton, which currently work together as part of the University of Dayton's Digital Transformation Center and as members of the AI Alliance, which IBM helped launch in 2023.

Working together under this collaboration, IBM and the University of Dayton strive to advance innovation and cultivate a skilled workforce which is essential to the long-term success of the U.S. semiconductor industry. Anchored in Dayton, Ohio, the birthplace of aviation and home to the Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, this collaboration will establish a new ecosystem for research and development with potential to drive impact at both regional and national levels.

"This relationship between the University of Dayton and IBM promises to be a game-changer for the Dayton region, particularly in the crucial area of semiconductor workforce development. It's also an example of the collaboration that defines the Dayton spirit," said Jeff Hoagland, President and CEO, Dayton Development Coalition. "Looking to the future, we're excited about the possibilities and positive effects on our community including boosting our tech ecosystem, attracting more businesses, and cementing the Dayton region's reputation as a premier hub for advanced manufacturing and technology."

ABOUT IBM

IBM is a leading provider of global hybrid cloud and AI, and consulting expertise. We help clients in more than 175 countries capitalize on insights from their data, streamline business processes, reduce costs, and gain a competitive edge in their industries. Thousands of governments and corporate entities in critical infrastructure areas such as financial services, telecommunications and healthcare rely on IBM's hybrid cloud platform and Red Hat OpenShift to affect their digital transformations quickly, efficiently, and securely. IBM's breakthrough innovations in AI, quantum computing, industry-specific cloud solutions and consulting deliver open and flexible options to our clients. All of this is backed by IBM's long-standing commitment to trust, transparency, responsibility, inclusivity, and service. Visit www.ibm.com for more information.

ABOUT THE UNIVERSITY OF DAYTON

The University of Dayton is a top-tier, national, Catholic, research university with offerings from the undergraduate to the doctoral levels. Founded in 1850 by the Society of Mary, the University is a diverse community committed to advancing the common good through intellectual curiosity, academic rigor, community engagement and local, national and global partnerships. Guided by the Marianist educational philosophy, we educate the whole person and link learning and scholarship with leadership and service. http://udayton.edu.

Media Contacts:

Willa Hahn, IBM

[email protected]

Cara Zinski-Neace, University of Dayton

[email protected]

SOURCE IBM
AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ --

The all-new, all-electric, Trail Rated 2026 Jeep Recon.

Built for adventure, the all-new 2026 Jeep Recon is the only fully electric Trail Rated SUV, delivering rugged capability in a fully electrified form

Electrified and trail ready, the Jeep Recon delivers 650 horsepower, 620 lb.-ft. of instant torque and an estimated all-electric range of up to 250 miles, plus 0-60 mph acceleration in as low as 3.6 seconds

Jeep brand-exclusive Selec-Terrain traction management system features five distinct drive modes for all weather and road conditions

Jeep Recon blends heritage-inspired design with modern electric innovation that inspires loyal Jeep enthusiasts and new explorers alike

No tools, no hassle, just pure open-air freedom in a matter of minutes; Jeep Recon is the only fully electric SUV designed with removable doors, swing gate glass and rear quarter glass

Roomy, rugged and ready for anything, the Jeep Recon's interior features handcrafted materials, clever storage and customizable touches that fit right into the Jeep lifestyle, including more than 170 standard safety and security features

With a starting MSRP of $65,000, the 2026 Jeep Recon will begin production early next year, with initial launches in the U.S. and Canada, followed by global expansion

The Jeep brand is charging into the future with the debut of the 2026 Jeep Recon, the first and only, fully electric, Trail Rated SUV in the industry. Engineered from the ground up for adventure, the Jeep Recon delivers legendary Jeep 4x4 capability in a fully electrified package.

Built on a purpose-designed electric architecture, the Jeep Recon blends powerful performance with authentic 4xe capability. Standard, all-electric, four-wheel drive delivers confident traction across a variety of terrain, supported by the Jeep brand's exclusive Selec-Terrain system with multiple drive modes tailored for all conditions. With 650 horsepower and 620 lb.-ft. of instant torque, the Jeep Recon offers precise control from the first touch of the throttle, accelerating from 0 to 60 mph in as little as 3.6 seconds. It's a bold, new expression of Jeep brand DNA, electrified and trail ready with an estimated all-electric range of up to 250 miles (based on trim).

"The 2026 Jeep Recon is a bold step forward for the brand, an all-electric SUV that stays true to our core values of freedom, adventure and capability. It's trail-rated, purpose-built and ready to take Jeep enthusiasts into the future without compromising the legendary performance they expect," said Bob Broderdorf, CEO of the Jeep brand. "With the Jeep Recon, we're proving that electrification isn't just compatible with off-road excellence, it can elevate it, delivering instant torque, precision control and a quieter, more connected driving experience that's uniquely Jeep."

From its electrified powertrain to its unmistakable, authentic design, the Jeep Recon is built to deliver a new kind of adventure, one that is as capable both on and off the trail as it is forward-thinking in its technology and features.

With a starting MSRP of $65,000 (excludes $1,995 destination), production of the 2026 Jeep Recon will begin early next year at the Toluca Assembly Plant, with initial launches in the U.S. and Canada, followed by global expansion.

Built to Perform: Electrified Architecture Delivers 4xe Strength and Daily Driving Comfort

The only fully electric Trail Rated SUV, the Jeep Recon is engineered to master the gamut of today's terrain  from urban streets to wilderness trails.

The core of the Jeep Recon's propulsion system is the front and rear Stellantis-designed electric drive modules (EDMs), each rated at 250 kilowatts, which deliver standard electric 4x4 propulsion and instant torque on demand. Each EDM combines an electric motor, gearing and power electronics into a single, compact unit for enhanced efficiency.

The propulsion system is rated at 620 lb.-ft. of torque, and the driver can access all of it almost instantly, without having to wait for conventional engine rpm to build. Jeep engineers have tailored the Jeep Recon's throttle pedal to deliver torque in a controlled and precise manner for a satisfying off-road driving experience.

To increase capability, the Moab trim's rear EDM uses a 15:1 final drive ratio that delivers a high level of torque multiplication to help the driver power through challenging conditions.

Off-road performance is enhanced via an electronic locking differential to ensure torque flows to both rear wheels when engaged. At the flip of a switch, the driver can go from open differential to fully locked.

The front EDM uses an 11:1 final drive ratio in an open differential design that balances performance with comfort. The front axle includes automatic disconnects at each wheel end to help optimize energy use and range during typical on-road driving conditions when rear-drive propulsion is more efficient.

Engineers prepped the Jeep Recon for trail duty with large-diameter half shafts and stout constant velocity (CV) joints to get all the torque to the wheels. The 100-kilowatt-hour, 400-volt battery pack is protected with a full suite of sturdy, high-strength steel underbody shields.

The Jeep Recon's suspension  a short-long arm (SLA) up front and integral link in the rear  is responsive to driver inputs and helps maximize the tire contact patch to deliver an ideal blend of on-road ride comfort with Jeep off-road capability. The suspension and standard 33-inch tires on the Moab trim provide 9.1 inches of ground clearance. Off-road specifications include 33.8-degree approach angle, 33.1-degree departure angle and 23.3-degree breakover angle.

The Selec-Terrain traction management system adds Rock mode for the Moab trim (joining Auto, Sport, Snow, Sand), providing unique software calibrations to help the driver make the best use of the capabilities inherent in an EV powertrain. Rock mode tailors throttle pedal response to help manage progress over uneven terrain, enabling a two-pedal driving technique to control the vehicle. Rock mode also includes a hill hold feature that lets the driver's foot move from the brake to the throttle pedal without the vehicle moving.

Additionally, the Jeep Recon is fitted with low-speed Selec-Speed Control for challenging inclines and declines. When engaged, Selec-Speed Control maintains the set speed, freeing the driver to concentrate on steering.

Exterior Design: Purposeful, Iconic and Built for Adventure

The 2026 Jeep Recon unites world-class craftsmanship with bold proportions and unmistakable Jeep DNA. Heritage-inspired yet future-focused, it honors the brand's legacy through iconic design cues while introducing a modern, all-electric vision of adventure, built to excite loyal enthusiasts and to inspire a new generation of trailblazers.

Expansive glass maximizes visibility, while the upright front face features illuminated seven-slot grille rings, U-shaped daytime running lights and a full suite of standard premium LED lighting.

True to the Jeep brand's open-air legacy, the Jeep Recon offers a standard dual-pane sunroof or an available Sky One-Touch powertop. Flush-mounted e-release handles provide effortless access, and the Jeep Recon stands as the only fully electric vehicle designed with removable doors, rear quarter glass and swing gate glass. No tools are required.

Gloss Black accents on the grille, pillars and window trim, plus an available Gloss Black roof, add visual contrast. At the rear are expressive Wrangler-inspired LED taillamps and a swing gate, which holds the full-size, rear-mounted spare tire, a segment-exclusive feature.

The rugged Moab trim, which debuts first, adds even more attitude with Gloss Black fascias, wheel flares, available side rock rails, and exclusive Jeep badging featuring topographical etching and an anti-glare hood graphic.

Staying true to the adventurous, fun-loving spirit the Jeep brand is known for, the Jeep Recon celebrates individuality with a rotating palette of expressive exterior colors, including special-edition hues. From vibrant hues that radiate playful energy to rugged, utility-inspired tones and refined neutrals that balance sophistication with adventure, the Jeep Recon offers a color for every personality.

Interior Design: Rugged Utility Meets Refined Innovation

The 2026 Jeep Recon interior is purpose-built for adventure, where rugged utility meets refined innovation. Drawing inspiration from the Jeep brand's legendary off-road heritage, the cabin blends durable, trail-ready materials with smart, customizable storage and cutting-edge technology, delivering a space that's both functional and forward-thinking.

At the heart of the interior is an iconic horizontal layout anchored by a bold passenger-side grab handle and a clean, symmetrical dash. Thoughtful details, like a modular accessory rail atop the instrument panel for mounting cameras, navigation devices or even a duck holder and scuff-resistant vortex-textured surfaces, reinforce the Jeep Recon's off-road readiness and technical edge.

Designed with the modern adventurer in mind, the Jeep Recon interior redefines utility with expanded storage and adaptable functionality. A two-tiered pass-through center console offers generous room for gear, featuring an available wireless charger on the upper level and a cord pass-through to a lower compartment ideal for tablets, purses or larger items. Modular door panels with removable elastic straps and interchangeable cargo solutions provide flexible organization, while 65.9 cu. ft. of rear cargo space (with the second row folded) and a front trunk (3.0 cu. ft.) sized for a carry-on suitcase ensure the Jeep Recon is ready for any journey.

The Moab trim introduces a new captivating Joshua Tree tan interior, a rugged yet sophisticated color palette born from an authentic journey to the iconic national park that inspired its name. This design pays tribute to the raw beauty of nature and the spirit of exploration, blending earthy tones with premium materials to evoke a sense of adventure and tranquility.

Recycled materials are thoughtfully woven throughout the cabin, reflecting Jeep Recon's commitment to sustainability. Surfaces on the seats, console, doors and instrument panel are finished in Capri, a refined, non-leather synthetic material, paired with distinctive accents, such as Iron Grey Metallic trim and Quicksand deco finish in Arctic. The headliner and carpets also feature recycled content, while rugged all-weather mats in the front, second row and rear cargo area offer durable protection against the elements, reinforcing the vehicle's adventurous spirit and eco-conscious design.

Enhancing the open-air experience, the Jeep Recon comes standard with a premium Alpine audio system. Repositioned speakers, moved from the traditional door mounts to beneath the seats, ensure uninterrupted sound quality even with the doors removed. This thoughtful design allows drivers and passengers to fully embrace the outdoors without sacrificing audio performance. The Jeep Recon stands alone in its segment as the only EV to offer premium sound as standard equipment.

Technology & Connectivity: Smarter Systems for a More Immersive Drive

The Jeep Recon is redefining the driving experience with a technologically advanced cabin that delivers more than 26 inches of high-definition, sculpted screen space designed to elevate both on-road and off-road journeys. At the heart of this innovation is an all-new, standard, 12.3-inch driver cluster featuring customizable menu options and modern graphics, paired with a groundbreaking 14.5-inch horizontal touchscreen radio/center display, the largest singular usable digital screen space ever offered in a Jeep vehicle.

New, integrated digital HVAC controls offer a clean, intuitive interface, while physical knobs for volume and tuning ensure tactile functionality remains where it matters most.

Powered by Uconnect 5, the Jeep brand's most advanced infotainment system to date, the new interface delivers unmatched clarity, brightness and customization. The sleek, buttonless design blends futuristic aesthetics with practical usability, featuring digital buttons sized for ease of use in any terrain. Larger dynamic displays also enhance readability for maps and camera views, ensuring drivers stay informed and in control.

Off-road enthusiasts will appreciate the new Jeep brand-exclusive Trails Offroad app, offering a comprehensive guide to trails across the U.S. and Canada, now with pitch and roll mapping. Optimized BEV pages provide real-time insights into vehicle state of charge, while Dynamic Range Mapping powered by TomTom helps plan long trips with precision, indicating when and where to charge.

Additional enhancements include Amazon Alexa functionality and an updated Jeep mobile app that supports scheduled maintenance, roadside assistance, accident support, and real-time safety and recall notifications. With these innovations, the Jeep brand continues to push the boundaries of what's possible in vehicle technology, delivering a driving experience that's smarter, safer and more connected than ever before.

Jeep Brand

For nearly 85 years, Jeep has been a global leader in SUVs, delivering legendary off-road capability, advanced technology and exceptional versatility for those who seek fun and adventure. With a commitment to innovation, the Jeep brand offers a diverse lineup of vehicles powered by internal combustion engines, hybrid technology and all-electric drivetrains. Built on a heritage of freedom, adventure, authenticity and passion, Jeep continues to set the standard for rugged and refined vehicles designed to conquer it all.

Follow Jeep and company news and video on:

Company blog: http://blog.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Media website: http://media.stellantisnorthamerica.com

Jeep brand: www.jeep.com

Facebook: www.facebook.com/jeep

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeep

Twitter: www.twitter.com/jeep

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/company/jeep

YouTube: www.youtube.com/thejeepchannel or https://www.youtube.com/StellantisNA

SOURCE Stellantis
IronPDF's enterprise-grade C# PDF generator becomes mission-critical as companies prepare for stricter AI liability, transparency, and digital replica regulations

CHICAGO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Iron Software, a global provider of high-performance developer tools, is experiencing accelerated adoption of IronPDF , its flagship C# PDF generator, as organisations reassess how they document and verify AI-generated content. With AI systems producing personalised conversations, recommendations, and digital likenesses at scale, businesses are confronting a new operational challenge: creating unchangeable, legally defensible records of every interaction.

"Most companies are underprepared for what's coming," said Cameron Rimington, CEO of Iron Software. "When an AI system produces a message, simulates a voice, or renders a digital human, that output can be used as evidence. Our C# PDF generator gives businesses the ability to record that information in a way that is immutable, cryptographically sealed, and admissible."

Why Documentation Suddenly Matters So Much

Regulators worldwide are introducing frameworks for AI accountability, automated decision-making transparency, and protection against unauthorised digital likeness reproduction. One example is California's SB 683, which extends rights of publicity to include AI-generated "digital replicas," requiring organisations to demonstrate what their systems produced  and when.

While this law is important context, the broader trend is even more consequential: companies must now maintain verifiable audit trails for AI.

This is driving a renewed focus on tools like IronPDF's C# PDF generator, which enables organisations to capture:

Real-time AI conversation transcripts

Screenshots or rendered states of digital humans

Versioned model metadata and system configurations

User consent flows and automated response logs

Contextual information showing prompts, timestamps, and session data

These must be stored as tamper-proof, legally defensible PDFs, often meeting PDF/A archival standards and including digital signatures.

Technical Capabilities That Matter for AI Compliance

IronPDF's C# PDF generator is engineered to meet the heavy documentation demands of regulated environments. Its capabilities include:

PDF/A compliance for long-term, court-admissible archiving

for long-term, court-admissible archiving Cryptographic digital signatures that seal documents and prove authenticity

that seal documents and prove authenticity Advanced metadata embedding for model versioning, parameters, and system context

for model versioning, parameters, and system context High-volume automated PDF generation without degrading AI system performance

without degrading AI system performance Cross-platfo rm.N ET support for cloud, on-premises, and hybrid deployments

The result is a documentation system that allows legal, engineering, compliance, and audit teams to access precise snapshots of AI behaviour at any moment in time.

Why Companies Are Choosing a Proven C# PDF Generator Instead of Building Their Own System

IronPDF has already been adopted by highly regulated sectors  banking, aviation, ESG compliance, healthcare  where documentation failures carry severe penalties. Green2View , a UN SME Climate Hub signatory and award-winning B Corp, relies on IronPDF's C# PDF generator to create digitally signed ESG documentation that can withstand multi-layered audits.

The financial industry uses the same engine for SOX-compliant transaction records.

Healthcare organisations use it to maintain HIPAA-secure patient history logs.

Airlines deploy it for mandatory safety documentation.

"The compliance bar we see in AI mirrors what these industries have dealt with for years," Rimington added. "That's why companies gravitating toward a mature, reliable C# PDF generator makes so much sense. They don't want to experiment with legal risk."

How AI Teams Are Actually Implementing IronPDF

Engineering teams integrating IronPDF are using the C# PDF generator to automatically build comprehensive AI audit trails:

Immediate Capture

AI-generated text, voice transcripts, or visual outputs are converted into PDFs in real time the moment they occur.



Context Preservation

Teams embed model identifiers, temperature settings, fine-tune versions, and system state metadata so the record reflects how the AI produced the output.



User Interactions

Consent forms, disclaimers, and automated statements are dynamically generated using the C# PDF generator, creating an end-to-end evidence chain.



Visual Documentation

Screenshots of avatars, digital replicas, or rendered scenes are packaged with textual logs in a single, sealed PDF.



Scalable Archiving

IronPDF's performance allows systems to process millions of AI interactions a day without slowing response times.

Industry Response and What Happens Next

The developer community has begun treating auditability as part of responsible AI deployment. This shift isn't limited to California: policy discussions in the EU, Australia, Korea, Singapore, and Canada indicate that similar digital likeness and AI accountability laws are imminent.

Enterprise architects who already use IronPDF's C# PDF generator in financial or medical environments are finding AI documentation straightforward because the compliance principles are nearly identical.

"When GDPR hit, companies scrambled," Rimington noted. "When ESG reporting standardised, companies scrambled. But this time we're seeing early adoption because people understand the stakes. AI documentation isn't optional anymore  it's a matter of legal survival and consumer trust."

Resources for Organisations Preparing for AI Compliance

Iron Software has released a detailed technical white paper, Architecting AI Audit Trails for Legal Compliance, outlining how to build complete audit systems using a C# PDF generator, including:

Code samples

Metadata schemas

Signature workflows

Audit lifecycle engineering

Integration strategies for AI platforms

A 30-day trial license of IronPDF is available at https://ironpdf.com/#trial-license

About Iron Software

Iron Software develops trusted developer libraries used by millions worldwide. With over 16 million NuGet downloads for IronPDF alone, the company supports engineers building secure, compliant, and high-performance applications across finance, healthcare, aviation, AI, and enterprise software. Its product suite includes IronPDF, IronOCR, IronXL, IronBarcode, and more  all engineered to simplify complex document and data workflows through simple, powerful APIs.

SOURCE Iron Software
ARCADIA, Fla., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Florida families now have access to a new kind of public educationone rooted in timeless ideas and modern excellence. Jefferson Classical Academy of Florida, offered by DeSoto County Schools in partnership with ACCEL Schools, is now enrolling students in grades K6 for mid-year starts beginning January 6, 2026, and for the 20262027 school year.

Florida's first tuition-free statewide classical school, Jefferson Classical Academy blends a time-honored curriculum in literature, history, science, and the arts with the flexibility of a virtual learning model. Guided by the vision of Founding Provost and former U.S. Secretary of Education Dr. William J. Bennett, the school embraces the belief that classical education helps students learn how to think, not just what to thinkconnecting them with the great ideas, stories, and questions that have shaped our civilization and helping them grow into thoughtful, virtuous citizens.

"At a time when so many parents are seeking schools that reflect their virtues and foster real intellectual growth, we're offering something both timeless and timely," said Dr. William J Bennett, Founding Provost. "These academies will give students across the country access to the best of the classical traditionclear thinking, moral character, and a love of learningno matter where they live."

"We're committed to making high-quality public school choice a reality for every family," said Dr. Bobby Bennett, Superintendent of DeSoto County Schools. "Through Jefferson Classical Academy, students gain a strong intellectual foundation and the habits of mind that serve them well in college, career, and life."

Jefferson Classical Academy of Florida offers:

A rigorous classical curriculum grounded in literature, history, arts, and sciences

Certified teachers leading live, interactive instruction

A focus on clear thinking, moral character, and civic virtue

Tuition-free access for all Florida students

Families can learn more or begin enrollment at florida.jeffersonclassicalacademy.com or by calling (863) 226-1500.

About Jefferson Classical Academy of Florida

Jefferson Classical Academy of Florida is the state's first tuition-free public school dedicated to classical education, serving students in grades K6. Offered by DeSoto County Schools in partnership with ACCEL Schools, the academy delivers a time-tested curriculum that cultivates wisdom, virtue, and a lifelong love of learning.

About ACCEL Schools

ACCEL Schools is a leading education management organization serving more than 100 public and public charter schools across the United States. The organization supports and operates brick-and-mortar, hybrid, and online schools and is the developer of AMP for Education, a platform that equips schools with real-time tools and insights to strengthen instruction, operations, and outcomes.

About DeSoto County Schools

DeSoto County Schools serves Florida students with a mission to ensure every child graduates prepared for success in college, career, and citizenship. The district prioritizes innovation, equity, and community partnership to strengthen opportunities for all learners.

Contact: Courtney Harritt, VP of Communications

Phone: (404) 840-8049 | Email:[email protected]

Website: florida.jeffersonclassicalacademy.com

SOURCE ACCEL Schools
RIYADH, Saudi Arabia and CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC), the largest medical research institution in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Flagship Pioneering, a scientific innovation engine for transformative platforms and products based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, today announced a strategic partnership to conduct clinical trials of novel medicines in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). The partnership will help advance transformative new medicines globally by partnering American innovation with state-of-the art clinical trial infrastructure in KSA. The agreement was announced as part of the U.S.-Saudi Investment Forum in Washington, D.C.

Under the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), KAIMRC and Flagship intend to establish a framework for clinical development to conduct early-phase trials in Saudi Arabia of multiple novel medicines from Flagship-founded companies. The collaboration will enable Flagship and its companies access to support from state-of-the-art facilities at KAIMRC, the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA), and King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), including advanced patient care units and clinical laboratories.

The partnership will initially focus on three Phase 1 programs and one Phase 2 program from three Flagship-founded companies focused on genetic diseases, with the potential to expand to additional programs over time. Participating studies are expected to enable global Phase 1 and 2 clinical trials of medicines targeting multiple genetic diseases with high unmet medical need  particularly those of significant relevance to patients in KSA  requiring innovative and novel therapeutic approaches. Under this collaboration, investors from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia will collectively commit an initial investment of $70M (equivalent to approximately SAR 262.5 million) to the U.S.-based participating companies.

"It is with great optimism that we announce our strategic collaboration with Flagship Pioneering," said H.E. Dr. Bandar AlKnawy, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs and President of King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. "This partnership marks a significant milestone in our ambition to establish Saudi Arabia as a leader in innovative clinical trials and Biotech Hub. By leveraging the robust ecosystem at the MNGHA, KAIMRC, and KSAU-HS, we aim to attract premier clinical research that will not only elevate our healthcare capabilities but also propel our national biotechnology strategy forward. This collaboration represents our unwavering commitment to fostering a vibrant research environment, driving impactful healthcare solutions, and reinforcing our role in the global health landscape, ultimately contributing to a healthier future for all."

"By combining the pioneering science of Flagship and our companies with KAIMRC's state-of-the-art facilities and resources, we have a clear opportunity to advance American innovation at home and abroad and expand global access to transformative medicines," said Noubar Afeyan, Ph.D., Founder and CEO, Flagship Pioneering. "This collaboration will allow Flagship to extend the clinical development capabilities of our companies into Saudi Arabia and continue our work to drive breakthrough innovations for the benefit of patients on a global scale."

About King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC)

The King Abdullah International Medical Research Center (KAIMRC) stands as a prominent leader in biomedical and clinical research. Established in 2006, it operates under the auspices of the King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS) and the Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs (MNGHA). Located in Riyadh, with additional campuses in Jeddah and Al-Ahsa, KAIMRC is dedicated to advancing healthcare through innovative scientific discoveries and research.

KAIMRC is recognized for its pioneering work in Biobanking. The center's Saudi Biobank is ISO accredited that is equipped with more than 60,000 samples, playing a vital role in the collection, storage, and management of biological samples from a diverse population. This biobank facilitates critical research into genetics, disease mechanisms, and personalized therapies given its ability to link biological samples to clinical data.

Additionally, the Cellular and Molecular Biobank (CBB) specializes in the collection and preservation of human cells and tissues. Operating under Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) standards for CAR-T cell therapy, the CBB ensures the highest quality and ethical compliance in its operations, significantly contributing to advancements in cell therapy.

With over 100 global partnerships, KAIMRC is at the forefront of innovation in clinical trials, cancer and rare diseases diagnostics, and therapeutic developments. In 2023, it earned accreditation from the Association for the Accreditation of Human Research Protection Programs (AAHRPP), further solidifying its reputation for excellence in research.

About Flagship Pioneering

Flagship Pioneering invents and builds platform companies, each with the potential for multiple products that transform human health, sustainability and beyond. Since its launch in 2000, Flagship has originated and fostered more than 100 scientific ventures, operating with $14 billion of assets under its direction as of its latest capital raise, announced in July 2024. The current Flagship ecosystem comprises more than 40 companies, including Foghorn Therapeutics, Generate Biomedicines, Inari, Indigo Agriculture, Lila Sciences, Moderna, Sana Biotechnology, Tessera Therapeutics and Valo Health.

Press Contacts:

KAIMRC: Dr. Abdulaziz Abdullah Alaraifi, [email protected]

Flagship Pioneering: [email protected]

SOURCE Flagship Pioneering
The outlook for the KLKB1 inhibitors market is increasingly positive, driven by growing recognition of the kallikreinkinin pathway's pivotal role in inflammatory, cardiovascular, and rare disease mechanisms. Recent product approvals, such as TAKHZYRO, EKTERLY, KALBITOR, ORLADEYO, and DAWNZTERA, along with emerging therapies such as Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others, underscore both the scientific validation and accelerating commercial potential of this therapeutic area.

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- DelveInsight's KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Size, Target Population, Competitive Landscape & Market Forecast report includes a comprehensive understanding of current treatment practices, addressable patient population, which includes top indications such as Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others. The selected indications are based on approved therapies and ongoing pipeline activity. The report also provides insights into the emerging KLKB1 inhibitors, market share of individual therapies, and current and forecasted market size from 2020 to 2034, segmented into leading markets (the US, EU4, UK, and Japan).

Key Takeaways from the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

The total market size of KLKB1 inhibitors in the leading markets is expected to surge significantly by 2034.

The report provides the total potential number of patients in the indications, such as Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others.

and others. Leading KLKB1 inhibitor companies, such as Intellia Therapeutics, Astria Therapeutics, Rezolute, and others, are developing novel KLKB1 inhibitors that can be available in the KLKB1 inhibitors market in the coming years.

and others, are developing novel KLKB1 inhibitors that can be available in the KLKB1 inhibitors market in the coming years. Some of the key KLKB1 inhibitors in clinical trials include Lonvoguran ziclumeran, Navenibart (STAR-0215), RZ402, and others.

Discover which indication is expected to grab the major KLKB1 inhibitors market share @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

Key Factors Driving the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market

Rising Prevalence of Hereditary Angioedema

The increasing number of patients diagnosed with HAE, a rare genetic disorder that causes severe swelling attacks, is a primary driver. KLKB1 inhibitors target plasma kallikrein, a key enzyme in HAE pathology, providing effective treatment options for the prevention and management of attacks.

Growing Demand for Targeted and Personalized Medicine

KLKB1 inhibitors represent precision therapies that specifically target disease pathways, aligning with the trend toward personalized medicine in rare diseases and inflammatory conditions, which increases their appeal.

Advancements in Drug Development

Ongoing research and development focus on creating novel KLKB1 inhibitors such as Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others with improved efficacy, safety profiles, oral administration options, and combination therapies. These innovations address unmet medical needs and patient convenience, fostering market growth.

KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Analysis

KLKB1 inhibitors, including TAKHZYRO (lanadelumab), ORLADEYO (berotralstat), EKTERLY (sebetralstat), and DAWNZTERA (donidalorsen), have swiftly established themselves as standard-of-care treatments for hereditary angioedema (HAE), offering both prophylactic and acute attack management through diverse delivery routes such as oral, injectable, and RNA-based formulations.

The recent approvals of EKTERLY as the first oral on-demand therapy and DAWNZTERA as the first RNA-based prophylactic, along with NTLA-2002 advancing into Phase III as a gene-editing therapy, underscore a shift in the pipeline toward greater treatment convenience, sustained efficacy, and the potential for curative solutions.

Elevated plasma kallikrein levels have been associated with heightened cardiovascular risks, including myocardial infarction and stroke in men. Similarly, children with abnormal lipid profiles or metabolic syndrome exhibit higher kallikrein levels, linking the enzyme to vascular inflammation and cardiovascular disease progression.

Thus, inhibiting plasma kallikrein (PKal) has been validated as a promising therapeutic approach for managing HAE, diabetic microvascular complications, and cardiovascular disorders. Emerging candidates such as RZ402 for diabetic macular edema (DME) represent the next wave of KLKB1 inhibitors targeting more prevalent indications, significantly broadening commercial opportunities beyond rare diseases like HAE.

Overall, kallikrein inhibitors, while currently centered on HAE treatment, are increasingly being explored for DME, diabetic retinopathy (DR), and other vascular and inflammatory conditions.

Learn more about the KLKB1 inhibitors @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Analysis

KLKB1 Inhibitors Competitive Landscape

Some of the KLKB1 inhibitors in clinical trials include Lonvoguran ziclumeran (Intellia Therapeutics), Navenibart (Astria Therapeutics), RZ402 (Rezolute), and others.

Intellia Therapeutics' Lonvo-z, previously known as NTLA-2002, is an investigational in vivo CRISPR-based gene editing therapy designed to prevent hereditary angioedema (HAE) attacks by inactivating the KLKB1 gene, which encodes prekallikrein, the precursor to kallikrein. The therapy has earned five key regulatory designations, including Orphan Drug and Regenerative Medicine Advanced Therapy (RMAT) status from the U.S. FDA, the Innovation Passport from the UK MHRA, PRIME (Priority Medicines) designation from the EMA, and Orphan Drug Designation (ODD) from the European Commission.

Astria Therapeutics' Navenibart is a monoclonal antibody that inhibits plasma kallikrein and is being developed for the treatment of HAE. The objective with navenibart is to deliver fast-acting and long-lasting prevention of HAE attacks through a well-established mechanism and trusted antibody modality, administered subcutaneously every 3 to 6 months. The ultimate goal is to enable people living with HAE to lead lives free from the constraints of their condition.

The anticipated launch of these emerging therapies are poised to transform the KLKB1 inhibitors market landscape in the coming years. As these cutting-edge therapies continue to mature and gain regulatory approval, they are expected to reshape the KLKB1 inhibitors market landscape, offering new standards of care and unlocking opportunities for medical innovation and economic growth.

To know more about KLKB1 inhibitors clinical trials, visit @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Treatment

Recent Developments in the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market

In September 2025, Intellia Therapeutics announced it had completed enrollment in the global Phase III HAELO study of lonvoguran ziclumeran for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. Topline data are expected to be available in the first half of 2026. Intellia is on track to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) in the second half of 2026 to support the company's plans for a US launch in the first half of 2027.

announced it had completed enrollment in the global Phase III HAELO study of lonvoguran ziclumeran for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. Topline data are expected to be available in the first half of 2026. Intellia is on track to submit a Biologics License Application (BLA) in the second half of 2026 to support the company's plans for a US launch in the first half of 2027. In September 2025, KalVista Pharmaceuticals announced that the European Commission and Swissmedic approved EKTERLY for the symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of HAE in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

announced that the European Commission and Swissmedic approved EKTERLY for the symptomatic treatment of acute attacks of HAE in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. In August 2025, Ionis Pharmaceuticals announced that the FDA had approved DAWNZERA for the prophylaxis of HAE attacks in adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. DAWNZERA is the first and only RNA-targeted medicine approved for the treatment of hereditary angioedema.

announced that the FDA had approved DAWNZERA for the prophylaxis of HAE attacks in adult and pediatric patients 12 years of age and older. DAWNZERA is the first and only RNA-targeted medicine approved for the treatment of hereditary angioedema. In August 2025, Astria Therapeutics announced that it had exclusively licensed development and commercialization rights in Japan to Kaken Pharmaceutical for navenibart, a Phase III development candidate for the preventive treatment of HAE.

announced that it had exclusively licensed development and commercialization rights in Japan to Kaken Pharmaceutical for navenibart, a Phase III development candidate for the preventive treatment of HAE. In July 2025, KalVista Pharmaceuticals announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the UK granted marketing authorization, and the US FDA had approved EKTERLY for the treatment of HAE attacks in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older.

announced that the Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) of the UK granted marketing authorization, and the US FDA had approved EKTERLY for the treatment of HAE attacks in adults and adolescents aged 12 years and older. In June 2025, Intellia Therapeutics announced three-year follow-up data from the Phase I portion of the ongoing Phase I/II study in patients with HAE after receiving a single dose of lonvo-z (NTLA-2002). Results were presented orally at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress 2025.

announced three-year follow-up data from the Phase I portion of the ongoing Phase I/II study in patients with HAE after receiving a single dose of lonvo-z (NTLA-2002). Results were presented orally at the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) Congress 2025. In June 2025, Astria Therapeutics announced positive initial results from the target enrollment group in the ongoing ALPHA-SOLAR long-term open-label trial evaluating navenibart in HAE patients. These results demonstrated robust overall reduction in the monthly attack rate (92% mean and 97% median) and further supported its favorable safety and tolerability profile, and potential every three-month (Q3M) and every six-month (Q6M) dosing regimens.

What are KLKB1 Inhibitors?

KLKB1 inhibitors act on plasma kallikrein, a pivotal enzyme in the kallikreinkinin system (KKS) that cleaves high-molecular-weight kininogen to produce bradykinin, a key mediator of vasodilation, vascular permeability, pain, and inflammation. Dysregulation of this pathway is linked to various inflammatory, cardiovascular, metabolic, and thrombotic conditions, positioning KLKB1 as an essential regulator of vascular function and immune activity. In addition to suppressing bradykinin generation, KLKB1 inhibition affects coagulation pathways and interacts with the complement system, suggesting a broader role in maintaining vascular balance and regulating inflammatory processes. Emerging research underscores its therapeutic potential in retinal vascular leakage, diabetic complications, and thrombosis prevention, highlighting its broader relevance beyond hereditary angioedema.

KLKB1 Inhibitors Epidemiology Segmentation

The KLKB1 inhibitors market report is a comprehensive and specialized analysis, offering in-depth epidemiological insights for the study period 20202034 across the leading markets. As per DelveInsight's assessment, the total diagnosed prevalent cases of HAE in the 7MM in 2024 were ~14,000, which is expected to increase by 2034, at a considerable CAGR.

The KLKB1 inhibitor target patient pool is segmented into:

Total Cases of Selected Indications For KLKB1 Inhibitors

Total Eligible Patient Pool of Selected Indications

Total Treated Cases in the Selected Indication For KLKB1 Inhibitors

KLKB1 Inhibitors Report Metrics Details Study Period 20202034 KLKB1 Inhibitors Report Coverage 7MM [The United States, the EU-4 (Germany, France, Italy, and Spain), the United Kingdom, and Japan] Key Indications Covered in the Report Hereditary Angioedema, Diabetic Macular Edema, and others Key KLKB1 Inhibitor Companies Intellia Therapeutics, Astria Therapeutics, Rezolute, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Takeda Pharmaceuticals, and others Key KLKB1 Inhibitors Lonvoguran ziclumeran, Navenibart (STAR-0215), RZ402, DAWNZERA, EKTERLY, ORLADEYO, TAKHZYRO, and others

Scope of the KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Report

KLKB1 Inhibitors Therapeutic Assessment: KLKB1 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies

KLKB1 Inhibitors current marketed and emerging therapies KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Dynamics: Conjoint Analysis of Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitors Drugs

Conjoint Analysis of Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitors Drugs Competitive Intelligence Analysis: SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies

SWOT analysis and Market entry strategies Unmet Needs, KOL's views, Analyst's views, KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Access and Reimbursement

Discover more about KLKB1 inhibitors in development @ KLKB1 Inhibitors Clinical Trials

Table of Contents

1 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Key Insights 2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Report Introduction 3 Executive Summary of KLKB1 Inhibitors 4 Key Events 5 Epidemiology and Market Forecast Methodology 6 KLKB1 Inhibitors Market Overview at a Glance in the 7MM 6.1 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Share (%) Distribution by Indication in 2024 6.2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Share (%) Distribution by Indication in 2034 7 KLKB1 Inhibitors: Background and Overview 8 Treatment and Management 9 Target KLKB1 Inhibitor Patient Pool 9.1 Key Findings 9.2 Assumptions and Rationale: 7MM 9.3 Epidemiology Scenario in the 7MM 9.3.1 Total Cases of Selected Indication for KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 9.3.2 Total Eligible Patient Pool for KLKB1 Inhibitors in Selected Indications in the 7MM 9.3.3 Total Treatable Cases in Selected Indications for KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 10 Marketed KLKB1 Inhibitor Therapies 10.1 Key Competitors 10.2 EKTERLY (sebetralstat): KalVista Pharmaceuticals 10.2.1 Product Description 10.2.2 Regulatory milestones 10.2.3 Other developmental activities 10.2.4 Clinical development 10.2.5 Safety and efficacy 10.2.6 Analyst Views 10.3 TAKHZYRO (lanadelumab-flyo): Takeda Pharmaceutical List to be continued in the report 11 Emerging KLKB1 Inhibitor Therapies 11.1 Key Competitors 11.2 Lonvoguran ziclumeran (lonvo-z): Intellia Therapeutics 11.2.1 Product Description 11.2.2 Other developmental activities 11.2.3 Clinical development 11.2.4 Safety and efficacy 11.2.5 Analyst Views 11.3 Navenibart (STAR-0215): Astria Therapeutics List to be continued in the report 12 KLKB1 Inhibitors Market: Seven Major Market Analysis 12.1 Key Findings 12.2 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Outlook 12.3 Key KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Forecast Assumptions 12.4 Total Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors in the 7MM 12.5 The United States KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 12.5.1 Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors by Indication in the United States 12.5.2 Market Size of KLKB1 Inhibitors by Therapies in the United States 12.6 EU4 and the UK KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 12.7 Japan KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Size 13 SWOT Analysis of KLKB1 Inhibitors 14 KOL Views of KLKB1 Inhibitors 15 Unmet Needs of KLKB1 Inhibitors 16 Market Access and Reimbursement 16.1 United States 16.2 EU4 and the UK 16.3 Japan 16.4 Summary and Comparison of Market Access and Pricing Policy Developments in 2025 16.5 KLKB1 Inhibitors: Market Access and Reimbursement 17 Bibliography 18 KLKB1 Inhibitor Market Report Methodology

Related Reports

Hereditary Angioedema Market

Hereditary Angioedema Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast  2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key HAE companies, including Shire, Takeda Pharma, CSL Behring, Pharming Group, BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, among others.

Hereditary Angioedema Clinical Trial Analysis

Hereditary Angioedema Pipeline Insight  2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key HAE companies, including BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, Pharvaris, BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Intellia Therapeutics, among others.

Diabetic Macular Edema Market

Diabetic Macular Edema Market Insights, Epidemiology, and Market Forecast  2034 report delivers an in-depth understanding of the disease, historical and forecasted epidemiology, as well as the market trends, market drivers, market barriers, and key DME companies, including Adverum Biotechnologies, Graybug Vision, Roche, Novartis, KalVista Pharmaceuticals, Ocuphire Pharma, Oxurion, YD Life Science, Allergan (AbbVie), Molecular Partners, Allergo Ophthalmics, Bausch Health, Kodiak Sciences, Clearside Biomedical, among others.

Diabetic Macular Edema Clinical Trial Analysis

Diabetic Macular Edema Pipeline Insight  2025 report provides comprehensive insights about the pipeline landscape, pipeline drug profiles, including clinical and non-clinical stage products, and the key diabetic macular edema companies, including Mylan Pharmaceuticals, Kodiak Sciences, Celltrion, Exonate, Opthea, AsclepiX Therapeutics, Allgenesis Biotherapeutics, Ascentage Pharma, Rezolute, Ocuphire Pharma, Oxurion, MingSight Pharmaceuticals, Adverum Biotechnologies, among others.

About DelveInsight

DelveInsight is a leading Business Consultant and Market Research firm focused exclusively on life sciences. It supports pharma companies by providing comprehensive end-to-end solutions to improve their performance. Get hassle-free access to all the healthcare and pharma market research reports through our subscription-based platform PharmDelve.

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SOURCE DelveInsight Business Research, LLP
Feel The Love, sponsored by the LII Lennox Foundation, celebrates 16 years of community

impact with the donation of HVAC equipment to homeowners and nonprofits in need.

DALLAS, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Lennox Residential HVAC donated 402 heating and cooling (HVAC) units to homeowners and nonprofits in need through its Feel The Love program sponsored by the LII Lennox Foundation. During Installation Week, October 312, Lennox dealers across 46 U.S. states and several Canadian provinces volunteered their time and expertise to install HVAC units at no cost.

Feel The Love, sponsored by the LII Lennox Foundation, brings free Lennox HVAC installations to community organizations like Halo Adoption Center.

Recipients included community heroes, families facing financial hardship or illness, and, for the first time in program history, qualified 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations. Since 2009, over 3,100 recipients have received new HVAC systems through Feel The Love, creating more comfortable homes and spaces across North America.

"The generosity of our Lennox dealers and their teams allows us to bring comfort to those who need it most," said Lanessa Bannister, Vice President and General Manager, Lennox Residential HVAC. "For 16 years, Feel The Love has represented the best part of our business: working together to provide essential HVAC solutions that make a real difference in people's lives."

Participating Lennox dealers, including long-time partner Smith Services in Vero Beach, FL, say the program provides a meaningful way to give back to their communities.

"Feel The Love presents Lennox dealers the opportunity to give back in ways we normally couldn't," said Frances Brown, President of Smith Services. "It allows us to support nonprofits like Halo Adoption Center with critical HVAC needs that directly impact lives, human and animal alike."

The LII Lennox Foundation, established in 2023, sponsors Feel The Love and other charitable initiatives that support the communities where Lennox employees live and work.

To learn more or nominate a community member for next year's Feel The Love program, visit FeelTheLove.com.

Lennox (NYSE: LII ) is a leader in energy-efficient climate-control solutions. We are committed to sustainability and creating comfortable, healthier environments for residential and commercial customers. Our innovative portfolio includes cooling, heating, indoor air quality, and refrigeration systems, along with a comprehensive range of HVAC parts, supplies, and services that support the full lifecycle of customer needs. Additional information is available at www.lennox.com. For media inquiries, contact [email protected].

SOURCE Lennox International Inc.
Nayya makes its first appearance on Deloitte's Technology Fast 500, reflecting strong momentum and expanding impact across the benefits landscape.

NEW YORK, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nayya, the leading health and wealth AI adviser that works with the largest HR tech platforms, benefits providers, and employers, today announced it ranked 180 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 31st year. Nayya recorded 454 percent growth across the three-year evaluation period.

Nayya's multi-year performance places the company among a select group of innovators demonstrating real scale and staying power. Its debut on the Fast 500 signals a broader shift across the market: benefits guidance technology has become an essential part of the modern workplace. Employers are under pressure to offer help that is intuitive, timely, and personalized, while also demonstrating a return on their benefits investment. Nayya's platform meets that need by bringing intelligence and simplicity to the moments when employees need direction most.

"Our progress reflects the impact of the work we have done to reshape how employees navigate their benefits," said Sina Chehrazi, Founder and CEO of Nayya. "In the past year alone, we expanded our footprint with new integrations across major HCM platforms, strengthened our offering through the acquisition of Northstar, and introduced our benefits SuperAgent to bring health and wealth guidance into one intelligent experience. These milestones are the result of a team that moves with speed, conviction, and a deep commitment to helping millions of employees feel empowered at every stage of their benefits journey."

This recognition also reflects a turning point for the company as it enters its next stage of scale. With demand rising across both employers and platform integration partners, Nayya is focused on deepening its footprint and continuing to advance the role of agentic AI in the benefits ecosystem.

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

About Nayya

Founded in 2019, Nayya is on a mission to connect people's most important information, so they can thrive in their health and wealth. Nayya's platform is the first of its kind: agentic AI that doesn't just advise, it actstransforming benefits from a once-a-year decision into an always-on advantage for every employee. As a trusted platform to leading employers, Nayya unlocks long-term value through helping employees live more resilient lives. Learn more at nayya.com

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.

Media contact:

[email protected]

SOURCE Nayya
BANGALORE, India, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- What is the Market Size of Non-Volatile Memory?

The global market for Non-Volatile Memory was valued at USD 70880 Million in the year 2024 and is projected to reach a revised size of USD 104490 Million by 2031, growing at a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period.

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What are the key factors driving the growth of the Non-Volatile Memory Market?

The Non-Volatile Memory Market continues to evolve as industries seek faster, reliable, and energy-efficient storage technologies. Innovations in MRAM, ReRAM, and 3D NAND are redefining data retention and endurance capabilities, supporting the growing digital economy. Enterprises, automotive manufacturers, and electronics producers are embracing these solutions to enhance product efficiency and reduce latency. The market's expansion aligns with global trends in AI, IoT, and sustainability, positioning non-volatile memory as a transformative force in next-generation computing infrastructure. As advancements continue, its adaptability and scalability ensure sustained relevance across consumer, industrial, and enterprise applications worldwide.

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TRENDS INFLUENCING THE GROWTH OF THE NON-VOLATILE MEMORY MARKET:

MRAM and STT-MRAM technologies are reshaping the Non-Volatile Memory Market by combining speed, endurance, and energy efficiency. These memories store data through magnetic states rather than electric charge, offering non-volatility with near-SRAM performance. Their ability to retain data without power makes them suitable for industrial, automotive, and consumer applications requiring instant-on capability and long data retention. MRAM reduces standby power, supports fast read/write operations, and delivers high endurance cycles. Its reliability in extreme environments makes it ideal for mission-critical systems. As industries seek alternatives to flash and DRAM, the scalability, durability, and energy efficiency of MRAM solutions strongly contribute to the continued expansion of the Non-Volatile Memory Market.

3D NAND technology drives the Non-Volatile Memory Market by revolutionizing data storage through vertical cell stacking and increased density. This architecture enhances storage capacity while maintaining cost efficiency and power optimization. Its ability to deliver high-speed data transfer and endurance supports widespread use in data centers, smartphones, and solid-state drives. The scalability of 3D NAND enables manufacturers to meet the exponential demand for data storage in cloud computing and enterprise solutions. Its integration into portable electronics ensures faster performance and extended battery life. Continuous innovations in layering techniques and production efficiency further strengthen its dominance, making 3D NAND one of the key growth pillars within the Non-Volatile Memory Market.

Consumer electronics significantly contribute to the growth of the Non-Volatile Memory Market by driving demand for high-speed, energy-efficient, and compact memory solutions. Devices such as smartphones, wearables, and tablets rely on advanced memory types for seamless data processing and storage stability. As device functions evolve to include AI, multimedia, and real-time connectivity, memory components with low latency and high endurance become crucial. Non-volatile memory technologies ensure faster boot times, higher reliability, and improved power management. The continuous expansion of connected devices and IoT ecosystems amplifies the need for scalable, durable memory, positioning consumer electronics as one of the most influential end-use segments shaping market expansion.

The rapid expansion of global data centers is a key driver of the Non-Volatile Memory Market. Rising adoption of cloud computing, AI workloads, and big data analytics increases the demand for memory solutions that deliver faster performance and reduced latency. Non-volatile memory technologies such as MRAM and 3D NAND enable servers to handle massive datasets efficiently while maintaining power efficiency. Their endurance and scalability make them ideal for enterprise storage systems requiring reliability and continuous uptime. As organizations prioritize high-performance computing and energy savings, data centers increasingly integrate advanced non-volatile memory to enhance operational capacity and reduce energy costs.

The proliferation of edge computing and smart devices boosts the Non-Volatile Memory Market as localized data processing becomes critical. Edge devices require quick access to stored data and minimal energy consumption, which non-volatile memory provides. MRAM and ReRAM technologies are particularly suited for these environments, offering instant response and durability under frequent read/write operations. Their integration in industrial IoT, medical monitoring, and autonomous systems ensures seamless real-time performance. As the number of connected devices grows globally, manufacturers are embedding non-volatile memory into microcontrollers and embedded systems to achieve faster computation, reduced latency, and longer device lifespans.

Automotive electronics are transforming rapidly with advanced driver-assistance systems, infotainment, and connectivity solutions, fueling demand for non-volatile memory. Vehicles now require high-reliability storage that operates under extreme conditions without power loss. MRAM, NOR flash, and emerging NVM types ensure faster boot times, instant data access, and strong endurance, enhancing the reliability of safety-critical functions. Electrification and vehicle automation further push the need for robust memory that maintains data integrity during voltage fluctuations. The automotive industry's digital shift toward connected and autonomous driving continues to reinforce non-volatile memory adoption, supporting both performance and safety innovation across vehicle platforms.

Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning systems demand high-performance memory architectures capable of rapid data access and persistence. Non-volatile memory technologies provide the ideal balance between speed, endurance, and data retention, essential for training and inference workloads. These devices improve data throughput, reduce power draw, and ensure sustained performance in AI-driven analytics, robotics, and automation. Their integration into neural network accelerators and edge AI chips enables efficient data processing even under resource constraints. As AI continues to evolve, non-volatile memory's ability to retain model parameters and intermediate computations without power dependence becomes a vital driver of market expansion.

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What are the major types in the Non-Volatile Memory Market?

Eeprom

Nvsram

Embedded

Eprom

3D Nand

Mram/Sttmram

What are the main applications of the Non-Volatile Memory Market?

Automobile, Transportation

Military, Aerospace

Industrial

Communication

Energy, Electricity

Medical

Agricultural

Retail

Other

Key Players in the Non-Volatile Memory Market

Samsung Electronics is a leading global supplier of NAND flash and advanced non-volatile memory solutions used in consumer and enterprise storage.

is a leading global supplier of NAND flash and advanced non-volatile memory solutions used in consumer and enterprise storage. Toshiba (Kioxia) pioneered NAND flash technology and continues to manufacture high-performance non-volatile memory products for storage devices.

(Kioxia) pioneered NAND flash technology and continues to manufacture high-performance non-volatile memory products for storage devices. Micron Technology produces NAND, NOR, and emerging non-volatile memory technologies for data centers, automotive, and industrial applications.

produces NAND, NOR, and emerging non-volatile memory technologies for data centers, automotive, and industrial applications. SK Hynix manufactures NAND flash and next-generation non-volatile memory solutions for smartphones, PCs, and server storage.

manufactures NAND flash and next-generation non-volatile memory solutions for smartphones, PCs, and server storage. Western Digital develops NAND-based solid-state storage solutions through its joint ventures and in-house memory technologies.

develops NAND-based solid-state storage solutions through its joint ventures and in-house memory technologies. Adesto Technologies (acquired by Renesas) specialized in low-power non-volatile memory for IoT, industrial, and embedded systems.

(acquired by Renesas) specialized in low-power non-volatile memory for IoT, industrial, and embedded systems. Intel has developed several NVM technologies, including Optane (3D XPoint), targeting high-performance data center and computing applications.

has developed several NVM technologies, including Optane (3D XPoint), targeting high-performance data center and computing applications. Microchip Technology supplies EEPROM, Flash, and other non-volatile memory products used widely in embedded and automotive systems.

supplies EEPROM, Flash, and other non-volatile memory products used widely in embedded and automotive systems. Fujitsu produces non-volatile memory solutions such as FeRAM for industrial control, metering, and automotive electronics.

produces non-volatile memory solutions such as FeRAM for industrial control, metering, and automotive electronics. Everspin Technologies is a leading manufacturer of MRAM products used in persistent memory and industrial applications.

is a leading manufacturer of MRAM products used in persistent memory and industrial applications. Viking Technologies (Viking Technology) provides NVDIMM and related non-volatile memory modules for enterprise and data center use.

(Viking Technology) provides NVDIMM and related non-volatile memory modules for enterprise and data center use. Crossbar focuses on Resistive RAM (ReRAM) technology aimed at high-density, low-power embedded and standalone memory applications.

focuses on Resistive RAM (ReRAM) technology aimed at high-density, low-power embedded and standalone memory applications. Nantero develops carbon-nanotube-based NRAM technology positioned as an alternative to traditional non-volatile memory.

develops carbon-nanotube-based NRAM technology positioned as an alternative to traditional non-volatile memory. Synopsys offers embedded non-volatile memory IP solutions used in semiconductor design for microcontrollers and SoCs.

offers embedded non-volatile memory IP solutions used in semiconductor design for microcontrollers and SoCs. Sidense (acquired by Synopsys) specialized in one-time-programmable (OTP) non-volatile memory IP for secure and low-power chip applications.

Which region dominates the Non-Volatile Memory Market?

Regionally, North America leads the Non-Volatile Memory Market owing to strong demand from data centers, AI infrastructure, and advanced consumer electronics manufacturing. The Asia-Pacific region, led by countries like China, Japan, and South Korea, dominates production and technological innovation due to established semiconductor ecosystems.

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Performance Brokerage Services, the leader in dealership buy-sell activity, announces the sale of Karl Ford of Story City in Iowa from Bret Moyer of Karl Auto Group to Casey, Nick, and Matt Johnson of Johnson Automotive Group

IRVINE, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Performance Brokerage Services, North America's highest volume dealership brokerage firm, is pleased to announce the sale of Karl Ford of Story City in Iowa from Bret Moyer of Karl Auto Group to Casey, Nick, and Matt Johnson of Johnson Automotive Group.

Performance Brokerage Services - Karl Ford of Story City - Johnson Automotive Group

Karl Ford of Story City became part of the Karl Auto Group in 2021 when the late Carl Moyer purchased the dealership from the Gookin family. Carl Moyer founded Karl Chevrolet in Ankeny, Iowa in 1978, starting his automotive journey in a one-car showroom. Over the past 47 years, the brand has grown into a respected network of dealerships across the state, built on Carl's dedication to his customers, employees, and community. Carl's son, Bret Moyer, continues his legacy, working to honor his father's vision and build lasting trust with every customer and the communities they serve.

The Karl Auto Group operates multiple dealerships in Iowa, including locations in Ankeny, Marshalltown, Stuart, and Webster City. Across these dealerships, the group represents Chevrolet, GMC, Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram.

After the sale, Bret Moyer shared, "Working with Matt Willis of Performance Brokerage Services was an outstanding experience from start to finish. Matt's professionalism, communication, and deep understanding of the buy-sell process made what could have been a complex transaction incredibly smooth. He represented our interests with honesty and precision and brought a qualified buyer who was the perfect fit for our dealership and our community. I'd recommend Matt Willis and Performance Brokerage Services to any dealer considering a sale  they deliver results, but more importantly, they do it the right way."

Over the last 5 years, Performance Brokerage Services has advised on the sale of nearly 400 dealerships, making it the highest volume dealership brokerage firm in North America. Paul Kechnie, Senior Partner and Matt Willis, Partner of the Texas & Midwest Offices for Performance Brokerage Services were the exclusive sell-side advisors for this transaction.

Matt Willis commented, "It was an absolute honor to represent Bret Moyer and the Karl Auto Group in the sale of Karl Ford in Story City, Iowa. Working directly with Bret and his team was a privilege, and it was equally a great pleasure to work with the buyers Casey, Nick, and Matt Johnson, as they continue expanding their Iowa footprint. There's something special about closing a deal in your home state. I take great pride in representing Iowa dealers and Midwest owners and helping them achieve exceptional results in today's active buy-sell market."

Johnson Automotive Group is a multi-generational, family-owned dealership organization led by Casey Johnson and his sons, Matt and Nick Johnson. In 1996, Casey purchased a small Ford dealership, beginning what has grown into a well-established and expanding presence in Iowa.

Johnson Automotive Group maintains a strong commitment to the communities it serves across Iowa. Each year, the group hosts a large Thanksgiving Meal Project, providing thousands of meals to residents in need. Through its Wheels for Work program, it has helped more than 100 working families secure reliable transportation to maintain employment.

The Johnson family operates Ames Ford Lincoln, Fort Dodge Ford Lincoln Toyota, and now Story City Ford, all in Iowa. The family has also earned widespread recognition for excellence, including the prestigious President's Award from both Ford Motor Company and Toyota Motor Corporation.

Casey Johnson shared, "Matt Willis and Performance Brokerage Services were fantastic to work with throughout our acquisition of Karl Ford in Story City. Matt was transparent, responsive, and truly acted as a bridge between both sides to ensure a smooth and timely closing. His market knowledge, integrity, and professionalism made the entire process efficient and enjoyable. We look forward to working with Matt and Performance Brokerage Services again on future opportunities."

Karl Ford of Story City will be renamed Story City Ford and will remain at its current location.

About Performance Brokerage Services

Performance Brokerage Services, Inc. is North America's highest volume dealership brokerage firm, specializing in buy-sell activity for automotive, RV, commercial truck, powersports, and equipment dealerships.

With over 30 years of experience, 900 dealerships sold, and a 90% closing rate, the company's reputation is unmatched and governed by the utmost ethical conduct and integrity.

The company offers a unique approach by providing complimentary estimates of value with no upfront fees or retainer, no reimbursement of costs, and paid a success fee only after the transaction closes.

Headquartered in Irvine, California and supported by 12 regional offices across the United States and Canada, clients benefit from national exposure with local representation.

As trusted and respected experts in the field, the company utilizes an extensive network of industry related attorneys, accountants, hundreds of registered buyers, and longstanding relationships with various vehicle manufacturers.

For more information about the services offered by Performance Brokerage Services, visit https://performancebrokerageservices.com.

Media Contact:

Jesse Stopnitzky, Co-Owner

(949) 309-2851

[email protected]

SOURCE Performance Brokerage Services, Inc.
Wins Build Ohio Award from Ohio Association of General Contractors and named Best Manufacturing Construction Project in Midwest by Engineering News-Record

WALBRIDGE, Ohio, Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Rudolph Libbe Group of Companies, which earlier this year finished Ford Motor Co.'s 2.7 million-square-foot Ohio Assembly Plant expansion, won two major construction industry awards for the project.

Rudolph Libbe Group won two major awards for building Ford's 2.7 million-square-foot Ohio Assembly Plant expansion. Post this Rudolph Libbe worked with 57 trade partners and over 2,100 employees completed site orientation for a total of 1.7-million-man hours worked on the project. Ford's OHAP Expansion Project interior shot. The project by Rudolph Libbe Group won the 2025 Build Ohio Award in the Industrial/Heavy category and Engineering News-Record's 2025 Best Manufacturing Project in the Midwest.

Rudolph Libbe Group won the annual Ohio Association of General Contractors' Build Ohio Award for the best construction project in the state in the Industrial/Heavy category. It also recently won the Engineering News-Record's award for Best Manufacturing Construction Project in the Midwest. Rudolph Libbe officials were on hand on Nov. 14 to receive the Build Ohio Award at the Ohio AGC's annual dinner in Columbus, and again on Nov. 18 to receive the construction trade magazine's award at a breakfast celebration in Chicago.

The Build Ohio Award is the 14th for Rudolph Libbe Group since 1993.

"These awards are the direct result of the incredible teamwork among the entire project team, from the customer to the preconstruction professionals and engineers, to our trades workers and our trade partners," said Jeff Schaller, President of Rudolph Libbe Inc., one of The Rudolph Libbe Group of Companies. "The team's collaboration, expertise and dedication produced an excellent result in which budget and schedule goals were met with an outstanding safety performance that was 50% better than the industry average."

The project for Ford, which was looking to increase production for a new electric commercial vehicle, included 246 acres of site improvements overlaying three Northern Ohio municipalities. By integrating subject-matter experts and self-perform capabilities early in the project, RLG was able to value engineer over $60 million out of the project without compromising quality or scope. Additionally, through Rudolph Libbe Properties, RLG's site-selection and incentives arm, over $15 million in additional savings came back to the customer.

The expansion was originally designed as two separate buildings but was changed to one building that would tie into the existing facility's paint shop through a pair of conveyor bridges. Power for the expansion was tapped into the substation for the existing plant in a trestle covering nearly one mile which carried cable tray up and over its roof and into the expansion. The expansion has a heavy steel frame with 13-foot-deep trusses and 50-foot by 100-foot bays capable of hanging 13,000 pounds at any location in the building.

Rudolph Libbe worked with 57 trade partners and over 2,100 employees completed site orientation for a total of 1.7-million-man hours worked on the project. Major scopes such as concrete, structural steel erection, HVAC, plumbing and electrical were self-performed. The ability to self-perform major trades allowed RLG to maintain flexibility, control quality and safety and accelerate the schedule when needed, all while preserving the client's budget and operational continuity. RLG company GEM Inc. prefabricated 375 piping racks from the company's Northeast Ohio fabrication shop.

"Our ability to prefabricate piping racks off-site and ship them to the jobsite saved time, improved accuracy and meant a safer work environment because less work had to be performed alongside the customer's ongoing operations," said GEM President Scott Kepp. "Our prefabrication capacity through all our Rudolph Libbe fabrication shops is just one aspect of our many capabilities that helps to deliver excellent results for our customers."

The Rudolph Libbe Group

The Rudolph Libbe Group of Companies delivers expert construction and facility services with a customer-first approach that optimize operations, maximize investments and enhance business performance at every stage. The full-service contractor, comprised of Rudolph Libbe Inc., GEM Inc., GEM Energy, GEM Service, and Rudolph Libbe Properties, provides support ranging from site selection and construction to process improvements, energy solutions and ongoing facility management. With a high customer retention rate for more than 70 years, The Rudolph Libbe Group has performed work for customers in 30 states from our offices in Northwest Ohio, Northeast Ohio, Southeast Michigan, Central Ohio and Lima, Ohio.

SOURCE Rudolph Libbe Group
Company rallies more than 2,500 business leaders and market innovators to accelerate electrification, automation and digitalization at the forefront of energy and technology

Based on company research, the U.S. must add more than 1,000 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity within the coming decade to meet rising demand from AI, electrification and industrial growth

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric , a global energy technology leader, opened the company's Innovation Summit North America 2025 today, convening more than 2,500 business leaders and market innovators representing nearly every industry to accelerate solutions for a more resilient, affordable and intelligent energy future. The two-day summit (November 1819) features technology showcases, partner announcements and new research designed to help organizations build ahead of demand and unlock new productivity with AI, software and services.

This week, Schneider Electrics Innovation Summit North America convenes more than 2,500 leaders to accelerate practical solutions for a resilient, affordable, and intelligent energy future across industries.

In his keynote address, Schneider Electric CEO Olivier Blum spoke to the evolving energy landscape, highlighting the company's continuing transformation to meet industry demands. He presented a forward-looking vision that further establishes the company's position as an energy technology partner.

Schneider Electric is advancing energy technology, the integration of electrification, automation and digital intelligence, across buildings, data centers, industrial applications and power grids. The company's open, AI-powered EcoStruxure Platform creates intelligent ecosystems to drive real-time insights, resilience, and efficiency.

"By converging electrification, automation and digitalization, we unlock the full value of energy, creating efficiency and sustainability for all," said Olivier Blum, CEO, Schneider Electric. "As your dedicated energy technology partner, our role is to translate that vision into concrete solutions that help you rapidly digitalize and strengthen your resilience. Innovation Summit North America is where we bring this to life, moving faster from ambition to action, advancing Energy Tech together with our entire ecosystem of partners and customers."

North America is entering a new growth cycle driven by AI workloads, re-industrialization and transport electrification. Much of today's infrastructure was not built to handle fast-ramping, highly variable demand, creating a gap between when capacity is needed and when it comes online. According to Schneider Electric's Sustainability Research Institute, grid instability costs U.S. businesses billions annually. The nation must add 1,0002,000 terawatt hours (TWh) of electricity per decade to meet demand from AI computing, manufacturing and electrification (one TWh powers about 90,000 homes for a year). Schneider Electric's call at Innovation Summit North America is for public and private partnerships to address the time to power gap by adding capacity closer to where it's consumed; using software and AI to unlock headroom, reliability and efficiency from existing systems; and modernizing grid operations so energy can be orchestrated at scale.

Convening Trailblazers  Agenda Highlights

Advancing Energy Tech for a Resilient Future: Keynote by Olivier Blum , Chief Executive Officer of Schneider Electric, and the Schneider Electric leadership team, with remarks from Raj Subramaniam , President and Chief Executive Officer, FedEx; Anthony Cottone , President and General Manager, 1PointFive; Chris Jeffries , Founder, Millennium Partners; and Chris Womack , Chairman, President; and Chief Executive Officer, Southern Company. The keynote illuminated how the convergence of electrification, automation and digital intelligence is solving real-world problems  from grid instability to outdated systems  while the grid's reliability and intelligence determine our ability to meet rising demand.

Keynote by and the Schneider Electric leadership team, with remarks from , President and Chief Executive Officer, FedEx; , President and General Manager, 1PointFive; , Founder, Millennium Partners; and , Chairman, President; and Chief Executive Officer, Southern Company. The keynote illuminated how the convergence of electrification, automation and digital intelligence is solving real-world problems  from grid instability to outdated systems  while the grid's reliability and intelligence determine our ability to meet rising demand. Energy + AI Nexus: Building Resiliency for a Digital Future with Axios : Hosted by Ryan Heath (AI Sidekick), including Olivier Blum ; Rob Roy, Switch founder and Chief Executive Officer; and Bill Flores, Chair of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Board of Directors and former U.S. Representative for Texas's 17th Congressional District, on modernizing North America's infrastructure to meet AI-era demand  covering investment, regulatory reform and the technologies reshaping how we power the future.

Axios Hosted by (AI Sidekick), including ; Switch founder and Chief Executive Officer; and Chair of the Electric Reliability Council of Texas (ERCOT) Board of Directors and former U.S. Representative for Texas's 17th Congressional District, on modernizing North America's infrastructure to meet AI-era demand  covering investment, regulatory reform and the technologies reshaping how we power the future. Powering Economic Growth through Energy Infrastructure: Designing a resilient, intelligent grid for data-intensive industries as AI-driven demand and policy imperatives converge  featuring Humayun Tai , Senior Partner, Global Energy & Materials Practice, McKinsey & Company; James Lee , Partner, BlackRock; and Mark Christie , former Chairman, FERC.

Designing a resilient, intelligent grid for data-intensive industries as AI-driven demand and policy imperatives converge  featuring , Senior Partner, Global Energy & Materials Practice, McKinsey & Company; , Partner, BlackRock; and , former Chairman, FERC. Workforce of the Future: Attracting, training and empowering the next-gen energy workforce as AI reshapes operations across sectors  featuring Carolyn Lee, President, The Manufacturing Institute; and David Long, Chief Executive Officer, National Electrical Contractors Association.

Key Announcements: Driving Impact Across Industries

Buildings

Schneider Electric named Boston's Winthrop Center as its new North American headquarters and first U.S. Impact Building . Winthrop Center is the world's largest "Passive House" office building, outperforming the energy use of typical Class A buildings in Boston by 150%, serving as a blueprint for high-performing, efficient, low-carbon, people-centric spaces.

Winthrop Center is the world's largest "Passive House" office building, outperforming the energy use of typical Class A buildings in Boston by 150%, serving as a blueprint for high-performing, efficient, low-carbon, people-centric spaces. EcoStruxure Foresight Operation: A unified, AI-powered building-energy platform that brings power, energy and building systems together for real-time optimization and predictive control.

Data Centers

Schneider Electric, AVEVA and ETAP joined the Alliance for OpenUSD to advance digital twins and 3D modeling in NVIDIA Omniverse , supporting interoperable, simulation-ready assets for buildings, grids, factories and AI infrastructure.

, supporting interoperable, simulation-ready assets for buildings, grids, factories and AI infrastructure. Schneider Electric deepened data center collaborations with Digital Realty and Switch, to deliver resilient, efficient AI capacity on an accelerated timeline.

Industry & Infrastructure

Schneider Electric debuted the One Digital Grid Platform , an AI-enabled platform that unifies planning, operations and asset management for utilities, improving reliability and managing rising costs.

, an AI-enabled platform that unifies planning, operations and asset management for utilities, improving reliability and managing rising costs. Schneider Electric becomes first company to earn UL ECOLOGO Certification for Energy & Industrial Automation Equipment, leading the way in validating environmental performance of power products under UL's new sustainability standard, beginning with circuit breakers.

Efficiency & Sustainability

MEDIA RESOURCES AND LINKS

Livestream access for press and non-attendees is available here.

Please direct all media inquiries to [email protected] .

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies.

www.se.com

Follow us on: Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Blog

Discover the newest perspectives on energy technology on Schneider Electric Insights .

Hashtags: #EnergyTechnology #TimeToPower #AI #Innovation #Resiliency #Leadership #Partnerships

SOURCE Schneider Electric
Companies will support software interoperability and advance open standards for industrial simulation, collaborative design and AI infrastructure systems

Software portfolios of the three companies aid the creation of digital twins, improving building design, sustainability and equipment optimization across multiple industries, including buildings, grids and AI factories

Companies align with NVIDIA's vision for scalable, simulation-ready (SimReady) assets that model the physical world and leverage generative AI for smarter decision-making

LAS VEGAS, Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, AVEVA, a global leader in industrial software, driving digital transformation and sustainability, and ETAP, the industry and technology leader in power system design and operation, today announced their membership in the Alliance for OpenUSD (Universal Scene Description). The companies join industry pioneers including NVIDIA, Pixar, Adobe and Autodesk in shaping the future of interoperable digital twins and simulation-ready (SimReady) 3D assets. The announcement was unveiled during Schneider Electric's Innovation Summit North America in Las Vegas, convening more than 2,500 business leaders and market innovators to accelerate practical solutions for a more resilient, affordable and intelligent energy future.

The announcement reinforces the companies' commitment to advancing open standards for industrial simulation, collaborative design and Gigawatt-scale AI infrastructure. OpenUSD is a high-performance, extensible framework and ecosystem that enables seamless interoperability between software tools and data types for building virtual worlds and advancing industrial digitalization.

Joining the Alliance signals Schneider Electric, AVEVA and ETAP's deepened alignment with NVIDIA's vision for scalable, physically accurate and real-time digital twin environments, engineered to simulate buildings, manufacturing factories, data centers, and AI infrastructure systems of the future. Organizations are rapidly adopting NVIDIA Omniverse libraries to develop digital twin solutions to model projects, digitalize processes and design systems to the highest standards of performance, sustainability and energy efficiency.

Advancing open standards for industrial simulation, collaborative design and AI infrastructure systems

By adopting OpenUSD as a shared standard, the companies are working closely with NVIDIA to unlock new possibilities for:

SimReady Asset Development: Creating interoperable, simulation-ready models of physical infrastructure components, like power and cooling systems, that can be orchestrated within industrial digital twins that leverage NVIDIA Omniverse libraries.





Creating interoperable, simulation-ready models of physical infrastructure components, like power and cooling systems, that can be orchestrated within industrial digital twins that leverage NVIDIA Omniverse libraries. Digital Twin Collaboration: Enabling unified views of complex systems, such as data centers, energy grids and industrial facilities that are integrated with Schneider Electric's platforms, like EcoStruxure, AVEVA and ETAP. The three companies' multi-domain expertise across buildings, data centers, factories, plants, grids and infrastructure offers advanced digital twin simulations for an array of industries.





Enabling unified views of complex systems, such as data centers, energy grids and industrial facilities that are integrated with Schneider Electric's platforms, like EcoStruxure, AVEVA and ETAP. The three companies' multi-domain expertise across buildings, data centers, factories, plants, grids and infrastructure offers advanced digital twin simulations for an array of industries. Accelerated AI Infrastructure Deployment: Leveraging the NVIDIA Omniverse DSX Blueprint and NVIDIA Omniverse libraries to codesign gigawatt-scale AI factories with reduced risk and faster time-to-market.

Schneider Electric's SimReady assets are used alongside applications with integrated NVIDIA Omniverse libraries, enabling physically accurate, detailed simulations across industries, and accelerating digital twin development. From manufacturers optimizing assembly lines, to data center operators enhancing AI factory design and operations, the adoption of OpenUSD and digital twins is driving improved energy efficiency, sustainability and resiliency.

For example, by using AI factory digital twins, data center operators can model and manage physical infrastructure systems that simulate thermal behavior, power distribution and airflow to optimize cooling efficiency and reliability.

"OpenUSD is more than a file format, it's a virtual bridge between industries," said Jim Simonelli, Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer for Data Centers at Schneider Electric. "Joining the Alliance allows us to contribute to a shared digital language that empowers collaboration, simulation and innovation across the AI ecosystem. It's a natural extension of our work with NVIDIA, allowing us to build AI infrastructure that's not only powerful, but intelligent, sustainable and future-ready."

"To efficiently design and operate complex systems like AI factories, industries need a robust, simulation-ready foundation," said Rev Lebaredian, Vice President of Omniverse and Simulation Technology at NVIDIA. "Schneider Electric's expertise in energy management, hardware and software, combined with NVIDIA Omniverse libraries, will accelerate the creation of the AI factories and intelligent grids of the future, paving the way for a new era of AI-driven efficiency and sustainability."

Continued innovation, partnership, and impact

Schneider Electric, AVEVA and ETAP joining the Alliance for OpenUSD (AOUSD) marks a pivotal moment in the companies' partnership with NVIDIA and builds upon milestones the companies have shared throughout the years to accelerate digital twin and AI factory development.

The companies are co-developing reference architectures, integrated infrastructure and software solutions that will power and cool the next generation of AI factories, and working on projects that leverage NVIDIA Omniverse libraries to simulate and improve energy efficiency in real-world environments.

At GTC DC, Schneider Electric was named as a power, cooling and energy technology partner contributing to the NVIDIA AI factory Research Center in Manassas, Virginia. Powered by the NVIDIA Vera Rubin platform, the center was built to support breakthroughs in generative AI, scientific computing and advanced manufacturing and to serve as a foundation for the Omniverse DSX Blueprint for gigascale AI factories. In March 2025, ETAP by Schneider Electric unveiled a cutting-edge digital twin that can accurately design and simulate the power needs of AI factories.

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory. With 160,000 employees and 1 million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world's most sustainable companies.

www.se.com

Follow us on:

Twitter | Facebook | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Blog

Discover the newest perspectives on energy technology on Schneider Electric Insights .

About AVEVA

AVEVA is a global leader in industrial software, sparking ingenuity to drive responsible use of the world's resources. The company's secure industrial cloud platform and applications enable businesses to harness the power of their information and improve collaboration with customers, suppliers and partners.

Over 20,000 enterprises in over 100 countries rely on AVEVA to help them deliver life's essentials: safe and reliable energy, food, medicines, infrastructure and more. By connecting people with trusted information and AI-enriched insights, AVEVA enables teams to engineer efficiently and optimize operations, driving growth and sustainability.

Named as one of the world's most innovative companies, AVEVA supports customers with open solutions and the expertise of more than 6,400 employees, 5,000 partners and 5,700 certified developers. With operations around the globe, AVEVA is headquartered in Cambridge, UK.

About ETAP

ETAP provides market-leading software solutions for electrical systems, from design and engineering to operations and maintenance.

Through its integrated electrical digital twin platform, ETAP delivers best-in-class, seamless customer experience and cloud-leveraging technologies ensuring universal accessibility for designers, engineers, and operators accelerating their digital energy transformation, even in the highest regulated environments.

Over 20,000 enterprises globally rely on ETAP to unlock total efficiency and sustainability at all stages of the lifecycle for utilities, infrastructure, industries, and buildings. Driven by excellence, innovation, and customer satisfaction for over 38 years, ETAP's deep expertise is supported by the dedication of more than 1,000 employees and a strong community of active users.

ETAP is headquartered in Irvine, California, with regional operations around the globe to support our local customers.

For further information:

(949) 900-1000

[email protected]

Hashtags: #AI #AIInfrastructure #DigitalTwin #OpenUSD #DataCentersoftheFuture #Omniverse

SOURCE Schneider Electric
Stockton Law Firm Accelerating Long-Term Growth Plan

STOCKTON, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers has expanded its legal team by welcoming Ozzie Pena to the firm. This addition is a strategic move to accommodate the increasing demand for the firm's services in Stockton, California. Pena's expertise is expected to bolster the firm's capabilities and enhance its ability to serve clients effectively.

"We are thrilled to welcome Ozzie Pena to the Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers team. His addition is a direct response to the increasing demand for our personal injury services," said Gabriel Sepulveda-Sanchez . "Adding him to the team is a reflection to our firm's expansion and our commitment to providing exceptional legal representation for our clients."

The decision to bring in Ozzie Pena reflects the firm's commitment to growth and client satisfaction. The firm has experienced substantial growth, necessitating the expansion of its team to maintain its high standards of service. The significance of this addition lies in the firm's enhanced capacity to handle a growing caseload and provide personalized attention to each client.

Benefits of this expansion:

Increased Capacity: The addition of Ozzie Pena allows Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers to take on more cases and assist a greater number of clients in the Stockton area.

The addition of Ozzie Pena allows Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers to take on more cases and assist a greater number of clients in the Stockton area. Enhanced Expertise: Pena's experience and skills will complement the existing team, providing clients with a broader range of legal knowledge and support.

Pena's experience and skills will complement the existing team, providing clients with a broader range of legal knowledge and support. Improved Client Service: With a larger team, the firm can ensure that each client receives the attention and support they need throughout their legal journey.

With a larger team, the firm can ensure that each client receives the attention and support they need throughout their legal journey. Commitment to Growth: This expansion demonstrates Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers' dedication to growing and evolving to meet the needs of the community.

The firm's growth and the addition of Ozzie Pena are positive developments for both Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers and the community it serves. The firm is now better equipped to provide high-quality legal representation to a growing number of clients.

To learn more about Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers and the services they offer, please visit https://sepulvedalawgroup.com/about/ . The firm is ready to assist you with your legal needs.

SOURCE Sepulveda Sanchez Accident Lawyers
Attributes 456% Revenue Growth to Product Innovation, Strategic Partnerships, and Expanding Consumer Demand

Recognized as a Top 10 Company Among San Diego Based Winners

SAN DIEGO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Trust & Will , the leader in online estate planning, today announced it ranked No. 178 on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 31st year. Trust & Will was also recognized as a top 10 company among all San Diego based winners on this year's list. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. Trust & Will grew 456% during this period.

Trust & Will's CEO, Cody Barbo, credits continued product expansion, growing enterprise adoption, and rising demand for accessible estate planning with the company's 456% revenue growth. "Millions of Americans have trusted us to help them protect what matters most, and earning that trust every day is what drives us forward," said Cody Barbo, Co-founder and CEO, Trust & Will. "Our team has stayed focused on building products that reduce stress, remove confusion, and make estate planning more accessible for everyone. This recognition reflects the momentum created by the families we serve and the partners who believe in our mission."

Trust & Will ranks #178 on the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500 and is recognized as a top 10 San Diego company Post this

Throughout 2025, Trust & Will strengthened its market position by advancing major product, partnership, and industry initiatives. The company closed a Series C funding round of more than $34 million, supporting continued investment in product development and national distribution. That investment helped accelerate the launch of EstateOS , an intelligent estate planning platform designed to help families, advisors, and institutions collaborate, stay organized, and manage important information with greater clarity and transparency.

Trust & Will also expanded its leadership role across the estate planning, wealth management, and fintech sectors. The inaugural Guiding Generations event gathered leaders from across these industries for discussions on innovation, access, and the future of legacy planning. The company launched its Nonprofit Platform to help charitable organizations convert planned giving interest into meaningful donor action.

Industry recognition continued to grow as Trust & Will and CEO Cody Barbo were named finalists in four categories at the 2025 WealthManagement.com Industry Awards, earning a win in the Estate Planning category for Trusts .

Consumer and partner adoption accelerated significantly as well. Trust & Will surpassed one million users and continued supporting 20,000+ advisors and 200+ institutional partners nationwide. The company also expanded a first of its kind bank distribution program when Fifth Third became the first U.S. bank to offer free wills to all customers . Trust & Will and Fifth Third Bank shared insights from the program's early impact on stage at Money20/20 USA .

To support this growth, the company appointed Jackie Frommer as Chief Commercial Officer to help advance enterprise and financial services partnerships. Trust & Will maintained its SOC 2 compliance posture through ongoing independent attestation and strengthened its mission governance as a Certified B Corporation while converting to a Public Benefit Corporation .

Overall, 2025 Technology Fast 500 companies achieved revenue growth ranging from 122% to 29,738% over the three year timeframe, with an average growth rate of 1,079%.

About Trust & Will

Founded in 2017, Trust & Will is the leading digital estate planning platform in the U.S., trusted by over one million individuals and families. Our simple, secure, and attorney-approved online solutions empower Americans to create wills, trusts, healthcare directives, and other essential estate planning documents tailored to state-specific laws. As a certified B Corporation and Public Benefit Corporation (PBC), our mission to help every family leave a meaningful legacy is embedded into our business model, ensuring estate planning is accessible, affordable, and inclusive for all.

In 2025, we introduced EstateOS, the first intelligent platform built to modernize legacy planning and preservation. EstateOS powers connected estate plans for families and offers AI-enabled workflows, document extraction, and client collaboration designed specifically for professionals.

Today, our platform supports 20,000+ financial advisors and 200+ enterprise partners, including banks, financial institutions, attorneys, nonprofits, real estate agents, and technology platforms. Notable partners include AARP, Fifth Third Bank, UBS, USAA, LPL Financial, and Northwestern Mutual. By enabling diverse professionals and organizations to integrate digital estate planning into their services, we're broadening estate planning access and fostering proactive, multi-generational financial conversations.

With more than one million users and over $200 billion in self-reported estate assets, Trust & Will is redefining estate planning as a strategic pillar of modern financial wellness. Recognized for innovation and leadership, we have earned spots on the CNBC Disruptor 50, Inc. 5000, and Deloitte Technology Fast 500 lists.

Learn more at trustandwill.com or about our commitment as a certified B Corp .

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

SOURCE Trust & Will
BELEM, Brazil, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The UN Global Compact today concluded its COP30 presence in Belem after engagements that brought business, finance, Government and the UN system together to move from ambition to execution. Anchored by the UN Global Compact Business Hub in the COP Blue Zone and highlighted by the 13th Annual High-Level Meeting of Caring for Climate co-convened with the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), the programme focused on credible transition plans, climate resilience and private-sector delivery of countries' next generation of Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs).

Across two weeks, the Business Hub hosted sessions that translated global goals into practical pathways for companies. Proceedings opened with an official UN side event on public procurement  co-organized with UNOPS, UNEP, FAO and UNIDO  examining how a lever that represents 1330 per cent of GDP in many countries can accelerate resilience and inclusion when climate ambition is embedded into contracts and supplier engagement.

Subsequent sessions explored the private sector's contribution to "NDCs 3.0," alignment between the business and investor cases for mobilizing capital, insights from the 2025 UN Global CompactAccenture CEO Study to inform leadership through 2030, and policy developments since Paris that support credible transition plans and climate-resilient economies.

The Hub also convened dialogues on the renewable energy transition and crisis leadership (through PRME's immersive Future Boardroom simulation), as well as corporate climate transition planning led by UN Global Compact Country Networks in Europe and Latin America. It also featured a peer exchange on supply-chain transparency, evolving EU rules, and Scope 3. Food systems accountability and geospatial intelligence for resilient infrastructure featured strongly, alongside a dedicated discussion on integrating adaptation into core business models and governance.

Caring for Climate

On 12 November, the UN Global Compact co-convened the Caring for Climate high-level meeting in the Blue Zone, bringing together CEOs, ministers, financiers and UN leaders to connect national transition plans with corporate delivery. The discussion emphasized that achieving the 1.5C goal now requires a quantum leap in ambition and implementation, underscoring regulatory clarity that de-risks investment, blended-finance approaches to build credible national project pipelines and public-private partnerships that scale solutions in the energy transition while leaving no one behind. The meeting drew on new evidence from the 2025 CEO Study showing strong private-sector intent to maintain or expand climate commitments and a growing expectation for policy frameworks that align markets with 1.5C.

Throughout COP30, the programme of the UN Global Compact reinforced a consistent message: companies are operationalizing transition plans and investing in resilience, and the fastest progress comes when corporate targets, investor expectations and enabling policies converge.

Sessions on climate transition plans highlighted practical hurdles  target-setting, governance, financing and value-chain integration  and offered sector examples from across regions, notably the Global South, where Country Networks are supporting leaders to adopt science-based targets and accelerate decarbonization while advancing a just transition.

Complementary dialogues examined how improved data, transparency and corporate accountability  particularly in food systems  can boost comparability and policy coherence, and how digital tools such as geospatial intelligence, AI and digital twins can help design and maintain infrastructure that withstands climate extremes.

The momentum at Belem built on the UN Secretary-General's call for NDCs that double energy efficiency, triple renewable capacity by 2030 and accelerate a just transition away from fossil fuels, with policies that provide predictable rules and crowd in private finance.

Participants across the Business Hub and the Caring for Climate meeting consistently pointed to the same accelerators: clear, enforceable standards for credible transition plans; blended-finance mechanisms that convert pipelines into bankable projects; and partnerships that align corporate innovation with national strategies so that non-state action helps implement  and overachieve  countries' NDCs.

As the global community turns from Belem toward implementation, the UN Global Compact will continue to provide the platforms, guidance and coalitions that help companies deliver measurable outcomes  linking boardroom decisions to national targets, strengthening accountability across value chains and mobilizing investment for both mitigation and adaptation.

Notes to Editors

About the UN Global Compact

The ambition of the UN Global Compact is to accelerate and scale the global collective impact of business by upholding the Ten Principles and delivering the SDGs through accountable companies and ecosystems that enable change. With more than 20,000 participating companies, 5 Regional Hubs, 66 Country Networks covering 85 countries and 9 Country Managers establishing Networks in 16 other countries, the UN Global Compact is the world's largest corporate sustainability initiative  one Global Compact uniting business for a better world. For more information, follow @globalcompact on social media and visit our website at unglobalcompact.org .

SOURCE United Nations Global Compact
CAMBRIDGE, Mass., Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Urban Hearth, the intimate Cambridge restaurant led by Chef Owner Erin Miller and rooted in Slow Food philosophy, has been recognized in the inaugural Michelin Guide for Boston, a milestone moment for Greater Boston's independent dining community and for woman-led restaurants across the region.

Chef Erin Miller of Urban Hearth in Cambridge, MA. Photo Credit: Brian Samuels Photography Foragers Salad: a salad of wild foraged greens and flowers over a bed of whipped pumpkin seed with local honeycomb. Photos Credit: Brian Samuels Photography

Tonight's announcement was made at the Michelin Guide Northeast Cities ceremony at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts in Philadelphia, where restaurants from Boston, New York City, Washington, D.C., and Philadelphia were recognized for culinary excellence and hospitality.

At the inaugural Boston and Cambridge ceremony, Urban Hearth and Chef Erin Miller were officially included in the MICHELIN Guide selection, recognizing the restaurant as a recommended destination for diners seeking a singular, chef-driven experience. The nod celebrates Urban Hearth's intimate scale and distinctive culinary perspective within the region's evolving dining landscape.

At Urban Hearth, Miller and her team craft seasonal, locally sourced, globally inspired menus that highlight New England farms, fisheries, and foodways, with an emphasis on storytelling, connection, and the shared experience of gathering around the table.

"This moment feels surreal. For years, our little team at Urban Hearth has poured our hearts into redefining what fine dining in Boston can be, rooted not in pretense or performance, but in craft, authentic connections, and the stories of the people and landscapes that sustain us. I am endlessly inspired by my team's dedication, imagination, and the rich diversity of backgrounds and lived experiences they bring to our kitchen and dining room. Their passion and authenticity shape everything we do, and I am profoundly proud of the care and intention they put into every detail. For a small, woman-led restaurant to receive this recognition is deeply meaningful. It also shines a long-overdue light on the independent restaurant community across Greater Boston, especially in Cambridge and Somerville, where creativity, artistry, and genuine hospitality thrive every day. For these voices and visions to be seen on an international stage feels extraordinary. I am deeply honored, grateful, and more committed than ever to nurturing the craft, curiosity, love, and hospitality that is at the core of Urban Hearth," said Chef Owner Erin Miller.

Founded as a 24-seat restaurant with an open kitchen and chef's counter on Massachusetts Avenue in Cambridge, Urban Hearth has earned a devoted following for its intimate dining room, seasonal tasting menus, and deeply personal approach to hospitality.

Looking ahead, Urban Hearth is preparing for a significant expansion. The restaurant will relocate to a larger home in Cambridge's Inman Square at 1281 Cambridge Street in early 2026, where Miller plans to more than double capacity and introduce a bar, an expanded chef's counter, and multiple distinct dining spaces, while continuing to operate the current location at 2263 Massachusetts Avenue during the transition.

"Recognition from Michelin arrives at a pivotal moment in Urban Hearth's story," Miller added. "As we grow into our new space in Inman Square, our goal is not to become something bigger and glossier for its own sake. It is to deepen the hospitality and craft that guests have always found at our table and to create more room for community, collaboration, and joy."

About Urban Hearth: Urban Hearth is an intimate, woman-owned restaurant in Cambridge, Massachusetts, led by Chef Owner Erin Miller. Guided by the principles of the Slow Food philosophy, Urban Hearth is committed to creating food that is good for guests, good for those who grow and produce it, and good for the planet. The restaurant's offerings celebrate locally sourced, seasonal ingredients and globally inspired flavors in a setting designed for warmth, connection, and conversation. Urban Hearth currently operates at 2263 Massachusetts Avenue in North Cambridge and is preparing to relocate and expand to 1281 Cambridge Street in Inman Square in 2026. For hours of operation or more information, please call (617) 682-7295 or visit urbanhearth.net.

About Michelin Cambridge, MA + Boston, MA: Michelin's arrival in Cambridge and Boston stems from a three-year partnership between the Cambridge Office for Tourism and Meet Boston to bring the MICHELIN Guide to the region for the first time. Candice Beaulieu, Executive Director of the Cambridge Office for Tourism, expressed pride in seeing Cambridge chefs and restaurants recognized on an international stage.

"Congratulations to Chef Erin Miller and her team at Urban Hearth for earning MICHELIN recognition. We are incredibly proud and excited for Urban Hearth. This is a win for all of Cambridge as MICHELIN shines a bright light on our talented and dedicated restaurant community. MICHELIN is sharing with its global audience what we have long known, our chefs, restaurateurs, and hospitality professionals are shaping one of the most dynamic and diverse dining destinations in the world."

The Cambridge Office for Tourism and Meet Boston played a central role in inviting MICHELIN's anonymous inspectors to explore the city's restaurants and document their experiences in this inaugural Boston-area guide.

SOURCE Urban Hearth
BEIJING, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- A cultural exchange session of the Global South Media and Think Tank Forum China-Africa Partnership Conference, titled the Hunan-Africa Dialogue: Connecting Cultures for a Shared Future, was held on November 14 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Cultural officials, representatives of mainstream media, cultural enterprise executives, and think tank experts from China and Africa gathered together to explore new paths and opportunities in China-Africa cultural exchanges and cooperation.

Zhao Chengxin, Director-General of the Information Office of the Hunan Provincial People's Government, delivers a speech at the event.

Zhao Chengxin, Director-General of the Information Office of the Hunan Provincial People's Government, said the bond between Hunan and Africa is deeply rooted in the fertile soil of cultural resonance.

Siafa G. Sheriff, President of the Liberia-China Friendship Organization, emphasized the significance of China-Africa integration in the coexistence of global civilizations.

He noted that the exchange between Chinese and African civilizations is not only about culture, but about shaping a world order featuring more harmony and inclusiveness.

The highlight of the event was the release of think tank achievements. China Economic Information Service (CEIS) under Xinhua News Agency, Central South University, Hunan University, Xiangtan University, Hunan Agricultural University and China-Africa Economic and Trade Promotion Council collectively released their latest research findings on cooperation with Africa.

The CEIS Shanghai Headquarters issued a report on Hunan's practices and explorations of China-Africa economic and trade cooperation.

Wan Fangming, Director of the Hunan Center of CEIS, said that Hunan has always endeavored to be a pioneer and promoter of deeper China-Africa economic and trade cooperation, offering valuable experience for such cooperation.

The attending guests agreed that China-Africa cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation hold broad prospects and enormous potential.

This event not only provided a platform for both sides to showcase achievements and share experiences, but also explicitly indicated the direction and injected momentum for future China-Africa cultural exchanges and industrial cooperation. Taking culture as the bond and people-to-people ties as the foundation, China-Africa cooperation is moving hand in hand towards a closer future.

Original link: https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/348374.html

Photo - https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2827172/photo.jpg
Parcel Volume Increased 9.8% to 9.6 Billion

Adjusted Net Income Grew 5.0% to RMB2.5 Billion



SHANGHAI, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK: 2057), a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China ("ZTO" or the "Company"), today announced its unaudited financial results for the third quarter ended September 30, 2025[1]. The Company grew parcel volume by 9.8% year over year while maintaining high quality of service and customer satisfaction. Adjusted net income increased 5.0%[2] to RMB2,506.1 million. Net cash generated from operating activities was RMB3,211.0 million.

Third Quarter 2025 Financial Highlights

Revenues were RMB11,864.7 million (US$1,666.6 million), an increase of 11.1% from RMB10,675.0 million in the same period of 2024.

Gross profit was RMB2,956.0 million (US$415.2 million), a decrease of 11.4% from RMB3,334.8 million in the same period of 2024.

Net income was RMB2,538.7 million (US$356.6 million), an increase of 6.7% from RMB2,379.0 million in the same period of 2024.

Adjusted EBITDA [3] was RMB3,582.5 million (US$503.2 million), a decrease of 4.2% from RMB3,739.5 million in the same period of 2024.

was RMB3,582.5 million (US$503.2 million), a decrease of 4.2% from RMB3,739.5 million in the same period of 2024. Adjusted net income was RMB2,506.1 million (US$352.0 million), an increase of 5.0% from RMB2,387.3 million in the same period of 2024.

Basic and diluted net earnings per American depositary share ("ADS" [4] ) were RMB3.16 (US$0.44) and RMB3.10 (US$0.44), an increase of 6.0% and 6.9% from RMB2.98 and RMB2.90 in the same period of 2024, respectively.

) were RMB3.16 (US$0.44) and RMB3.10 (US$0.44), an increase of 6.0% and 6.9% from RMB2.98 and RMB2.90 in the same period of 2024, respectively. Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders [5] were RMB3.12 (US$0.44) and RMB3.06 (US$0.43), an increase of 4.3% and 5.2% from RMB2.99 and RMB2.91 in the same period of 2024, respectively.

were RMB3.12 (US$0.44) and RMB3.06 (US$0.43), an increase of 4.3% and 5.2% from RMB2.99 and RMB2.91 in the same period of 2024, respectively. Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,211.0 million (US$451.0 million), compared with RMB3,112.0 million in the same period of 2024.

Operational Highlights for Third Quarter 2025

Parcel volume was 9,573 million, increased 9.8% from 8,723 million in the same period of 2024.

9.8% from 8,723 million in the same period of 2024. Number of pickup/delivery outlets was over 31,000 as of September 30, 2025.

Number of direct network partners was over 6,000 as of September 30, 2025.

Number of self-owned line-haul vehicles was over 10,000 as of September 30, 2025.

Number of line-haul routes between sorting hubs was approximately 3,900 as of September 30, 2025.

Number of sorting hubs was 95 as of September 30, 2025, among which 91 are operated by the Company and 4 by the Company's network partners.

(1) An investor relations presentation accompanies this earnings release and can be found at http://zto.investorroom.com. (2) Adjusted net income is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before share-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as impairment of investments in equity investees, gain/(loss) on disposal of equity investment and subsidiary and corresponding tax impact which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations. (3) Adjusted EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses, and further adjusted to exclude the shared-based compensation expense and non-recurring items such as impairment of investments in equity investees, gain/(loss) on disposal of equity investment and subsidiary which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations. (4) One ADS represents one Class A ordinary share. (5) Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders is a non-GAAP financial measure. It is defined as adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders divided by weighted average number of basic and diluted American depositary shares, respectively.

Mr. Meisong Lai, Founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of ZTO, commented, "Focusing on quality and increasing market presence while maintaining healthy earnings is ZTO's unwavering long-term strategy. During this quarter, we grew volume by 9.8% to reach 9.6 billion parcels and we delivered 2.51 billion adjusted net income which increased 5%. Our retail volume's growth momentum remained strong at nearly 50% and continued to bring positive contribution to margin."

Mr. Lai added, "During the third quarter, government's appeal for anti-involution not only brought mitigating effect towards social stability but also influenced the industry turning towards quality development versus merely quantity expansion. Being the industry leader, ZTO is called upon to exemplify with increasing rigor, and we renewed our commitment to strengthening our own capabilities whileaddressing genuine concerns. Nearly all industries go through stages of competition and true strength will sustain. Despite complex macro environment where uncertainties remain, we believe ZTO will continue to build strength in quality, scale and profitability and drive healthy sustainable growth for the long run."

Ms. Huiping Yan, Chief Financial Officer of ZTO, commented, "ZTO's core express ASP increased by 2 cents. The 14 cents in higher volume incentives and 2 cents from lower average weight per parcel were absorbed by 18 cents increase in KA unit price. Combined unit sorting and transportation costs decreased 5 cents driven by transportation cost productivity. SG&A costs remain structurally stable at 5.3% of revenue. Cash flow from operating activities grew 3.2% to 3.2 billion, and capital spending was 1.2 billion for the quarter."

Ms. Yan added, "With visibility into the final quarter of the year, we are adjusting down the annual volume guidance to be in the range of 38.2 to 38.7 billion parcels representing a year-over-year growth of 12.3% to 13.8%. Volume is crucial to our business, and network stability is the foundation for sustainable future growth of our company. As macro environment continues to evolve and industry dynamics shifts towards healthier growth, we maintain confidence in our ability to execute the overall corporate strategy as well as tackle challenges at hand to become a world leading logistics service provider."

Third Quarter 2025 Unaudited Financial Results



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

%

RMB

US$

%

RMB

%

RMB

US$

%

(in thousands, except percentages) Express delivery services 9,812,807

91.9

11,020,092

1,547,983

92.9

28,928,902

92.2

32,126,133

4,512,731

92.9 Freight forwarding services 240,491

2.3

222,664

31,277

1.9

676,480

2.2

582,141

81,773

1.6 Sale of accessories 588,233

5.5

590,936

83,008

5.0

1,653,717

5.3

1,787,002

251,019

5.2 Others 33,517

0.3

31,002

4,356

0.2

101,919

0.3

92,690

13,020

0.3 Total revenues 10,675,048

100.0

11,864,694

1,666,624

100.0

31,361,018

100.0

34,587,966

4,858,543

100.0

Total Revenues were RMB11,864.7 million (US$ 1,666.6 million), increased 11.1% from RMB10,675.0 million in the same period of 2024. Revenue from the core express delivery business increased by 11.6% compared to the same period of 2024 as a net result of a 9.8% growth in parcel volume and a 1.7% increase in parcel unit price. Keyaccount revenue, generated by direct sales organizations, increased by 141.2% mainly driven by increase in e-commerce return parcels. Revenue from freight forwarding services decreased by 7.4% compared to the same period of 2024. Revenue from sales of accessories largely consisted of sales of digital thermal paper waybills, increased by 0.5%. Other revenues were derived mainly from financing services.



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

%

RMB

US$

%

RMB

%

RMB

US$

%

(in thousands, except percentages) Line-haul transportation cost 3,398,007

31.8

3,302,046

463,836

27.8

10,052,623

32.1

10,076,055

1,415,375

29.1 Sorting hub operating cost 2,224,206

20.8

2,394,119

336,300

20.2

6,620,077

21.1

7,123,554

1,000,640

20.6 Freight forwarding cost 226,111

2.1

204,820

28,771

1.7

631,217

2.0

547,847

76,956

1.6 Cost of accessories sold 161,648

1.5

135,557

19,042

1.1

454,788

1.5

420,020

59,000

1.2 Other costs 1,330,265

12.6

2,872,183

403,452

24.3

3,644,940

11.5

7,830,904

1,100,000

22.7 Total cost of revenues 7,340,237

68.8

8,908,725

1,251,401

75.1

21,403,645

68.2

25,998,380

3,651,971

75.2

Total cost of revenues was RMB8,908.7 million (US$1,251.4 million), an increase of 21.4% from RMB7,340.2 million in the same period last year.

Line-haul transportation cost was RMB3,302.0 million (US$463.8 million), decreased 2.8% from RMB3,398.0 million in the same period last year. The unit transportation cost decreased 12.8% or 5 cents mainly attributable to better economies of scale and improved load rate through more effective route planning.

Sorting hub operating cost was RMB2,394.1 million (US$336.3 million), increased 7.6% from RMB2,224.2 million in the same period last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB93.1 million (US$13.1 million) increase in labor-associated costs partially offset by automation-driven efficiency improvements, and (ii) RMB46.8 million (US$6.6 million) increase in depreciation and amortization costs associated with equipment and facilities. As of September 30, 2025, there were 761 sets of automated sorting equipment in service, compared to 535 sets as of September 30, 2024.

Cost of accessories sold was RMB135.6 million (US$19.0 million), decreased 16.1% compared with RMB161.6 million in the same period last year.

Other costs were RMB2,872.2 million (US$403.5 million), increased 115.9% from RMB1,330.3 million in the same period last year, which included an increase of RMB1,471.7 million (US$206.7 million) for serving key account customers.

Gross Profit was RMB2,956.0 million (US$415.2 million), decreased by 11.4% from RMB3,334.8 million in the same period last year. Gross margin rate was 24.9% compared to 31.2% in the same period last year.

Total Operating Expenses were RMB550.9 million (US$77.4 million), compared to RMB493.0 million in the same period last year.

Selling, general and administrative expenses were RMB632.6 million (US$88.9 million), increased by 16.2% from RMB544.6 million in the same period last year. The increase primarily consisted of (i) RMB61.5 million (US$8.6 million) depreciation and amortization costs associated with administrative facilities and equipment, and (ii) RMB40.9 million (US$5.7 million) increase in compensation and benefits.

Other operating income, net was RMB81.7 million (US$11.5 million), compared to RMB51.6 million in the same period last year. Other operating income mainly consisted of (i) RMB63.1 million (US$8.9 million) of rental and other income, and (ii) RMB22.5 million (US$3.2 million) of government subsidies and tax rebates.

Income from operations was RMB2,405.0 million (US$337.8 million), decreased 15.4% from RMB2,841.8 million for the same period last year. The operating margin rate was 20.3% compared to 26.6% in the same period last year.

Interest income was RMB185.2 million (US$26.0 million), compared with RMB238.5 million in the same period last year.

Interest expenses was RMB54.4 million (US$7.6 million), compared with RMB66.4 million in the same period last year.

Gain from fair value changes of financial instruments was RMB102.3 million (US$14.4 million), compared with a loss of RMB62.7 million in the same period last year. Such gain or loss from fair value changes of the financial instruments were quoted by commercial banks according to market-based estimation of future redemption prices.

Income tax expenses were RMB160.0 million (US$22.5 million) compared to RMB555.0 million in the same period last year. The overall income tax rate decreased by 13.1 percentage points this quarter compared to the same period last year, attributable to an income tax refund of RMB375.8 million (US$52.8 million) received by Shanghai Zhongtongji Network(), a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company, upon its recognition as a "Key Software Enterprise" qualifying for a preferential tax rate of 10% for tax year 2024.

Net income was RMB2,538.7 million (US$356.6 million), which increased by 6.7% from RMB2,379.0 million in the same period last year.

Basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB3.16 (US$0.44) and RMB3.10 (US$0.44), compared to basic and diluted earnings per ADS of RMB2.98 and RMB2.90 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted basic and diluted earnings per ADS attributable to ordinary shareholders were RMB3.12 (US$0.44) and RMB3.06 (US$0.43), compared with RMB2.99 and RMB2.91 in the same period last year, respectively.

Adjusted net income was RMB2,506.1 million (US$352.0 million), compared with RMB2,387.3 million during the same period last year.

EBITDA [1] was RMB3,615.1 million (US$507.8 million), compared with RMB3,731.3 million in the same period last year.

Adjusted EBITDA was RMB3,582.5 million (US$503.2 million), compared to RMB3,739.5 million in the same period last year.

Net cash provided by operating activities was RMB3,211.0 million (US$451.0 million), compared with RMB3,112.0 million in the same period last year.

(1) EBITDA is a non-GAAP financial measure, which is defined as net income before depreciation, amortization, interest expenses and income tax expenses which management aims to better represent the underlying business operations.

Company Share Repurchase Program

The Board has approved its share repurchase program in November 2018 and made subsequent modifications, whereby the latest modification increased the aggregate value of shares that may be repurchased to US$2.0 billion and extended the effective period through June 30, 2026. As of September 30, 2025, the Company had purchased an aggregate of 52,919,506 ADSs for US$1.3billion on the open market, including repurchase commissions. The remaining funds available under the share repurchase program was US$0.7 billion.

Business Outlook

Given full-year's visibility and based on current market and operating conditions, the Company revises its previously stated annual guidance. Parcel volume for 2025 is expected to be in the range of 38.2 billion to 38.7 billion, representing a 12.3% to 13.8% increase year over year. Such estimates represent management's current and preliminary view, which are subject to change.

Exchange Rate

This announcement contains translation of certain Renminbi amounts into U.S. dollars at specified rates solely for the convenience of readers. Unless otherwise noted, all translations from Renminbi to U.S. dollars were made at the exchange rate of RMB7.119 to US$1.00, the noon buying rate on September 30,2025 as set forth in the H.10 statistical release of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Systems.

Use of Non-GAAP Financial Measures

The Company uses EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders, and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders, each a non-GAAP financial measure, in evaluating ZTO's operating results and for financial and operational decision-making purposes.

Reconciliations of the Company's non-GAAP financial measures to its U.S. GAAP financial measures are shown in tables at the end of this earnings release, which provide more details about the non-GAAP financial measures.

The Company believes that such Non-GAAP measures help identify underlying trends in ZTO's business that could otherwise be distorted by the effect of the related expenses and gains that the Company includes in income from operations and net income. The Company believes that EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders provide useful information about its operating results, enhance the overall understanding of its past performance and future prospects and allow for greater visibility with respect to key metrics used by ZTO's management in its financial and operational decision-making.

EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders should not be considered in isolation or construed as an alternative to net income or any other measure of performance or as an indicator of the Company's operating performance. Investors are encouraged to compare the historical non-GAAP financial measures to the most directly comparable GAAP measures. EBITDA, adjusted EBITDA, adjusted net income, adjusted net income attributable to ordinary shareholders and adjusted basic and diluted earnings per American depositary share attributable to ordinary shareholders presented here may not be comparable to similarly titled measures presented by other companies. Other companies may calculate similarly titled measures differently, limiting their usefulness as comparative measures to ZTO's data. ZTO encourages investors and others to review the Company's financial information in its entirety and not rely on a single financial measure.

Conference Call Information

ZTO's management team will host an earnings conference call at 7:30 PM U.S. Eastern Time on Wednesday, November 19, 2025 (8:30 AM Beijing Time on Thursday, November 20, 2025).

Dial-in details for the earnings conference call are as follows:

United States: 1-888-317-6003 Hong Kong: 800-963-976 Mainland China: 4001-206-115 Singapore: 800-120-5863 International: 1-412-317-6061 Passcode: 7602569

Please dial in 15 minutes before the call is scheduled to begin and provide the passcode to join the call.

A replay of the conference call may be accessed by phone at the following numbers until November 26, 2025:

United States: 1-855-669-9658 International: 1-412-317-0088 Passcode: 8703795

Additionally, a live and archived webcast of the conference call will be available at http://zto.investorroom.com.

About ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. (NYSE: ZTO and SEHK:2057) ("ZTO" or the "Company") is a leading and fast-growing express delivery company in China. ZTO provides express delivery service as well as other value-added logistics services through its extensive and reliable nationwide network coverage in China.

ZTO operates a highly scalable network partner model, which the Company believes is best suited to support the significant growth of e-commerce in China. The Company leverages its network partners to provide pickup and last-mile delivery services, while controlling the mission-critical line-haul transportation and sorting network within the express delivery service value chain.

For more information, please visit http://zto.investorroom.com.

Safe Harbor Statement

This announcement contains statements that may constitute "forward-looking" statements pursuant to the "safe harbor" provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as "will," "expects," "anticipates," "aims," "future," "intends," "plans," "believes," "estimates," "likely to," and other similar expressions. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement contain forward-looking statements. ZTO may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong Limited (the "HKEX"), in its interim and annual reports to shareholders, in announcements, circulars or other publications made on the website of the HKEX, in press releases and other written materials, and in oral statements made by its officers, directors, or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including but not limited to statements about ZTO's beliefs, plans, and expectations, are forward looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: risks relating to the development of the e-commerce and express delivery industries in China; its significant reliance on certain third-party e-commerce platforms; risks associated with its network partners and their employees and personnel; intense competition which could adversely affect the Company's results of operations and market share; any service disruption of the Company's sorting hubs or the outlets operated by its network partners or its technology system; ZTO's ability to build its brand and withstand negative publicity, or other favorable government policies. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in ZTO's filings with the SEC and the HKEX. All information provided in this announcement is as of the date of this announcement, and ZTO does not undertake any obligation to update any forward-looking statement, except as required under applicable law.

UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA

Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Comprehensive Income Data:



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands, except for share and per share data) Revenues 10,675,048

11,864,694

1,666,624

31,361,018

34,587,966

4,858,543 Cost of revenues (7,340,237)

(8,908,725)

(1,251,401)

(21,403,645)

(25,998,380)

(3,651,971) Gross profit 3,334,811

2,955,969

415,223

9,957,373

8,589,586

1,206,572 Operating (expenses)/income:





















Selling, general and administrative (544,573)

(632,583)

(88,858)

(2,034,192)

(1,993,681)

(280,051) Other operating income, net 51,552

81,657

11,470

400,507

689,600

96,868 Total operating expenses (493,021)

(550,926)

(77,388)

(1,633,685)

(1,304,081)

(183,183) Income from operations 2,841,790

2,405,043

337,835

8,323,688

7,285,505

1,023,389 Other income/(expenses):





















Interest income 238,510

185,231

26,019

771,608

592,355

83,208 Interest expense (66,364)

(54,420)

(7,644)

(266,135)

(221,408)

(31,101) (Loss)/gain from fair value changes of





















financial instruments (62,699)

102,307

14,371

34,883

135,285

19,003 (Loss)/gain on disposal of equity investees,





















subsidiary and others (1,440)

35,563

4,996

10,694

34,996

4,916 Impairment of investments in equity investees -

-

-

(672,816)

-

- Impairment of Goodwill -

-

-

-

(84,431)

(11,860) Foreign currency exchange gain before tax (38,174)

9,288

1,305

(17,612)

21,663

3,043 Income before income tax, and share of





















income in equity method investments 2,911,623

2,683,012

376,882

8,184,310

7,763,965

1,090,598 Income tax expense (554,959)

(160,000)

(22,475)

(1,786,275)

(1,267,105)

(177,989) Share of income in equity method investments 22,378

15,692

2,204

42,751

45,584

6,403 Net income 2,379,042

2,538,704

356,611

6,440,786

6,542,444

919,012 Net loss/(income) attributable to non-





















controlling interests 17,255

(14,984)

(2,105)

(6,641)

(87,145)

(12,241) Net income attributable to ZTO Express





















(Cayman) Inc. 2,396,297

2,523,720

354,506

6,434,145

6,455,299

906,771 Net income attributable to ordinary





















shareholders 2,396,297

2,523,720

354,506

6,434,145

6,455,299

906,771 Net earnings per share attributed to





















ordinary shareholders





















Basic 2.98

3.16

0.44

7.99

8.08

1.13 Diluted 2.90

3.10

0.44

7.80

7.90

1.11 Weighted average shares used in





















calculating net earnings per ordinary





















share/ADS





















Basic 804,565,579

799,661,689

799,661,689

805,388,468

799,304,556

799,304,556 Diluted 838,131,679

822,552,945

822,552,945

838,954,568

830,201,619

830,201,619 Net income 2,379,042

2,538,704

356,611

6,440,786

6,542,444

919,012 Other comprehensive income/(loss),





















net of tax of nil:





















Foreign currency translation adjustment 137,698

(14,058)

(1,975)

20,138

36,474

5,123 Comprehensive income 2,516,740

2,524,646

354,636

6,460,924

6,578,918

924,135 Comprehensive (income)/loss attributable to





















non-controlling interests 17,255

(14,984)

(2,105)

(6,641)

(87,145)

(12,241) Comprehensive income attributable to ZTO





















Express (Cayman) Inc. 2,533,995

2,509,662

352,531

6,454,283

6,491,773

911,894

Unaudited Consolidated Balance Sheets Data:

As of

December 31,

September 30,

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands, except for share data) ASSETS









Current assets:









Cash and cash equivalents 13,465,442

9,389,842

1,318,983 Restricted cash 37,517

22,853

3,210 Accounts receivable, net 1,503,706

1,172,149

164,651 Financing receivables 1,178,617

736,393

103,441 Short-term investment 8,848,447

15,898,686

2,233,275 Inventories 38,569

48,248

6,777 Advances to suppliers 783,599

769,715

108,121 Prepayments and other current assets 4,329,664

5,047,366

708,999 Amounts due from related parties 168,160

79,844

11,216 Total current assets 30,353,721

33,165,096

4,658,673 Investments in equity investees 1,871,337

1,916,906

269,266 Property and equipment, net 33,915,366

35,399,151

4,972,489 Land use rights, net 6,170,233

6,269,062

880,610 Intangible assets, net 17,043

20,710

2,909 Operating lease right-of-use assets 566,316

444,978

62,506 Goodwill 4,241,541

4,157,111

583,946 Deferred tax assets 984,567

1,039,418

146,006 Long-term investment 12,017,755

5,874,110

825,131 Long-term financing receivables 861,453

1,163,957

163,500 Other non-current assets 919,331

720,354

101,188 Amounts due from related parties-non current 421,667

371,167

52,137 TOTAL ASSETS 92,340,330

90,542,020

12,718,361 LIABILITIES AND EQUITY









Current liabilities









Short-term bank borrowing 9,513,958

11,627,171

1,633,259 Accounts payable 2,463,395

2,274,185

319,453 Advances from customers 1,565,147

1,720,274

241,645 Income tax payable 488,889

260,214

36,552 Amounts due to related parties 202,766

124,711

17,518 Operating lease liabilities 183,373

152,017

21,354 Dividends payable 14,134

1,728,045

242,737 Convertible senior bond 7,270,081

-

- Other current liabilities 6,571,492

6,187,127

869,101 Total current liabilities 28,273,235

24,073,744

3,381,619 Long-term bank borrowing -

163,000

22,896 Non-current operating lease liabilities 377,717

294,872

41,420 Deferred tax liabilities 1,014,545

517,854

72,743 Convertible senior bond -

126,348

17,748 TOTAL LIABILITIES 29,665,497

25,175,818

3,536,426 Shareholders' equity









Ordinary shares (US$0.0001 par value; 10,000,000,000 shares authorized;

810,339,182 shares issued and 798,622,719 shares outstanding as of

December 31, 2024; 804.468.490 shares issued and 797,732.629 shares









outstanding as of September 30, 2025) 523

519

73 Additional paid-in capital 24,389,905

24,361,063

3,421,978 Treasury shares, at cost (1,131,895)

(548,929)

(77,108) Retained earnings 39,098,553

41,152,881

5,780,711 Accumulated other comprehensive loss (294,694)

(258,220)

(36,272) ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc. shareholders' equity 62,062,392

64,707,314

9,089,382 Non-controlling interests 612,441

658,888

92,553 Total Equity 62,674,833

65,366,202

9,181,935 TOTAL LIABILITIES AND EQUITY 92,340,330

90,542,020

12,718,361

Summary of Unaudited Consolidated Cash Flow Data:



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands) Net cash provided by operating activities 3,111,972

3,210,966

451,042

8,623,087

7,742,150

1,087,533 Net cash used in investing activities (1,910,131)

(426,591)

(59,923)

(8,955,072)

(4,748,573)

(667,028) Net cash provided by/(used in) financing activities 10,183

(6,671,184)

(937,096)

(963,309)

(7,049,988)

(990,306) Effect of exchange rate changes on cash, cash





















equivalents and restricted cash (43,349)

(19,890)

(2,794)

(8,272)

(52,156)

(7,326) Net increase/(decrease) in cash, cash equivalents





















and restricted cash 1,168,675

(3,906,699)

(548,771)

(1,303,566)

(4,108,567)

(577,127) Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at





















beginning of period 10,579,069

13,329,079

1,872,325

13,051,310

13,530,947

1,900,681 Cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash at end of





















period 11,747,744

9,422,380

1,323,554

11,747,744

9,422,380

1,323,554

The following table provides a reconciliation of cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash reported within the condensed consolidated balance sheets that sum to the total of the same such amounts shown in the condensed consolidated statements of cash flows:



As of

September 30,

September 30,

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$





(in thousands)



Cash and cash equivalents 11,703,151

9,389,842

1,318,983 Restricted cash, current 32,350

22,853

3,210 Restricted cash, non-current 12,243

9,685

1,361 Total cash, cash equivalents and restricted cash 11,747,744

9,422,380

1,323,554

Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands, except for share and per share data) Net income 2,379,042

2,538,704

356,611

6,440,786

6,542,444

919,012 Add:





















Share-based compensation expense (1) 6,769

2,994

421

311,924

226,256

31,782 Impairment of investments in equity investees (1) -

-

-

672,816

-

- Impairment of Goodwill -

-

-

-

84,431

11,860 Loss/(gain) on disposal of equity investees





















and subsidiary, net of income taxes 1,440

(35,563)

(4,996)

(8,507)

(34,970)

(4,912) Adjusted net income 2,387,251

2,506,135

352,036

7,417,019

6,818,161

957,742























Net income 2,379,042

2,538,704

356,611

6,440,786

6,542,444

919,012 Add:





















Depreciation 695,241

823,044

115,612

2,168,290

2,382,422

334,657 Amortization 35,709

38,949

5,471

104,034

115,074

16,164 Interest expenses 66,364

54,420

7,644

266,135

221,408

31,101 Income tax expenses 554,959

160,000

22,475

1,786,275

1,267,105

177,989 EBITDA 3,731,315

3,615,117

507,813

10,765,520

10,528,453

1,478,923























Add:





















Share-based compensation expense 6,769

2,994

421

311,924

226,256

31,782 Impairment of investments in equity investees -

-

-

672,816

-

- Impairment of Goodwill -

-

-

-

84,431

11,860 Loss/(gain) on disposal of equity investees





















and subsidiary 1,440

(35,563)

(4,996)

(10,694)

(34,996)

(4,916) Adjusted EBITDA 3,739,524

3,582,548

503,238

11,739,566

10,804,144

1,517,649

(1) Net of income taxes of nil

Reconciliations of GAAP and Non-GAAP Results



Three Months Ended September 30,

Nine Months Ended September 30,

2024

2025

2024

2025

RMB

RMB

US$

RMB

RMB

US$

(in thousands, except for share and per share data) Net income attributable to ordinary





















shareholders 2,396,297

2,523,720

354,506

6,434,145

6,455,299

906,771 Add:





















Share-based compensation expense (1) 6,769

2,994

421

311,924

226,256

31,782 Impairment of investments in equity





















investees (1) -

-

-

672,816

-

- Impairment of Goodwill -

-

-

-

84,431

11,860 Loss/(gain) on disposal of equity investees





















and subsidiary, net of income taxes 1,440

(35,563)

(4,996)

(8,507)

(34,970)

(4,912) Adjusted Net income attributable to





















ordinary shareholders 2,404,506

2,491,151

349,931

7,410,378

6,731,016

945,501























Weighted average shares used in





















calculating net earnings per ordinary





















share/ADS





















Basic 804,565,579

799,661,689

799,661,689

805,388,468

799,304,556

799,304,556 Diluted 838,131,679

822,552,945

822,552,945

838,954,568

830,201,619

830,201,619























Net earnings per share/ADS attributable to





















ordinary shareholders





















Basic 2.98

3.16

0.44

7.99

8.08

1.13 Diluted 2.90

3.10

0.44

7.80

7.90

1.11























Adjusted net earnings per share/ADS





















attributable to ordinary shareholders





















Basic 2.99

3.12

0.44

9.20

8.42

1.18 Diluted 2.91

3.06

0.43

8.96

8.23

1.16

(1) Net of income taxes of nil

For investor and media inquiries, please contact:

ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.

Investor Relations

E-mail: [email protected]

Phone: +86 21 5980 4508

SOURCE ZTO Express (Cayman) Inc.
BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- The second strategic dialogue between the Communist Party of China (CPC) and Germany's Social Democratic Party (SPD) took place in Beijing on Tuesday.

Liu Haixing, head of the International Department of the CPC Central Committee, and Lars Klingbeil, co-leader of the SPD, German vice chancellor and federal minister of finance, both attended the event and delivered keynote speeches.

Liu provided an overview of the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee. He said that the CPC is willing to effectively utilize its strategic dialogue mechanism with the SPD to enhance exchange and mutual learning, promote cooperation in various fields, and drive the stable, healthy development of China-Germany and China-Europe relations.

The German side said that the SPD is willing to strengthen its exchange with the CPC, and to use the mechanism to engage in candid, open dialogue on a wide range of topics, including Germany-China and Europe-China relations, climate change, artificial intelligence, and regional peace and security.

Also present at the dialogue were representatives of relevant Chinese authorities and think tanks, as well as the members of the SPD delegation. 
BERLIN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Germany remains an important investment destination for Chinese companies in Europe, a business survey showed, even as rising labor costs, regulatory hurdles and geopolitical uncertainty continue to weigh on Europe's largest economy.

The Business Confidence Survey of Chinese Companies in Germany 2025, jointly released by the Chinese Chamber of Commerce in Germany (CHKD) and KPMG on Tuesday, found that although Germany faces persistent economic stagnation and rising layoffs, more than 100 Chinese companies operating in the country remain cautiously optimistic about their business outlook.

Forty-three percent of respondents expect moderate or strong revenue growth in the next 12 months, while 46 percent expect revenues to remain broadly stable, the survey showed. Four in ten companies plan to increase staff, with a similar proportion expecting headcount to stay unchanged.

Germany occupies a central place in Chinese companies' European operations, the survey said, with more than half of respondents designating their German subsidiaries as regional headquarters. Meanwhile, 21 percent have plans to invest in production facilities in the country over the next five years.

Andreas Glunz, managing partner of international business at KPMG in Germany, said at the launch event that Chinese companies are increasingly pursuing localization strategies in Germany as they look to build value chains in Europe and integrate more deeply through partnerships.

"Germany still has many strengths, and this creates win-win opportunities for Chinese investors," he said.

China has remained one of Germany's most active foreign investors in recent years. According to data from Germany Trade & Invest (GTAI), China continued to rank as Germany's third-largest source of greenfield investment projects in 2024, with activity concentrated in renewable energy, electronics and automation, and transport and logistics.

Glunz also stressed the importance of deeper cooperation, noting that for Chinese companies operating in Germany, the strongest cooperation potential lies in digitalization, energy-related fields such as battery technology, and the automotive sector.

However, concerns over Germany's investment environment have dampened confidence among Chinese firms. Only 13 percent of respondents described the five-year outlook as positive, while around one in three said risks outweigh opportunities. High labor costs, cumbersome regulation, and language and cultural barriers were cited as major challenges.

The report said streamlining administrative procedures, making investment screening more predictable, and improving market openness would be the most effective steps to attract further Chinese investment. 
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
CANBERRA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Australia's system for funding its public hospitals is wasting money on avoidable costs and needs a reset, according to a new report.

The report, published by independent think tank the Grattan Institute, found that Australia's public hospitals remain under strain despite a significant increase in funding over the last decade.

It said that total public hospital funding increased from 56 billion Australian dollars (about 36.41 billion U.S. dollars) in 2014 to 87 billion Australian dollars in 2024, but that waiting times for surgeries are getting longer and staff say they are suffering from burnout.

"Australia's approach to funding hospitals is broken, and it blocks productivity," the report said.

It found that the average cost of procedures such as knee replacements can vary by thousands of dollars between high and low-cost hospitals in the same state.

If all costly hospitals reached the middle of the pack for efficiency, the Grattan Institute estimated it would save governments 1.2 billion Australian dollars every year in avoidable costs.

Australia's federal government is currently negotiating with the governments of the eight states and territories on a new five-year funding agreement for public hospitals from 2026-31.

Under a deal struck with state and territory leaders in 2023, the federal government agreed to increase its share of hospital funding to 42.5 percent by 2030 and 45 percent by 2035.

The report said that the hospital system must be reset and made more productive to deal with Australia's aging population and growing rates of chronic disease.

It said that the federal government's funding contribution should rise in line with growing demand for care and that the states and territories should reform their systems to improve efficiency, promote shorter hospital stays and help hospitals adopt best practices. 
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Brunei's tourism industry roadmap outlines the nation's ambition to develop a high-value, niche tourism sector that emphasizes quality over quantity while protecting the country's pristine natural environment, a senior Brunei tourism official said on Tuesday.

Speaking at the UN Tourism Regional Workshop on Measuring Sustainability of Tourism in Asia and the Pacific here, Salinah Mohd Salleh, acting-director of the Brunei Tourism Development Department, said the roadmap also seeks to uphold the nation's cultural values and ensure that tourism-generated economic benefits flow directly to local communities.

She said Brunei also recognizes that building this measurement capacity takes time, resources, and collaboration.

That is why the workshop is so valuable in building technical skills, institutional frameworks, and sharing the understanding needed to make sustainability measurement both practical and impactful.

The event brought together over 60 participants, including international experts, local stakeholders from government, private sector, higher education institutions, tourism service providers, and local communities. 
KABUL, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Authorities have commenced construction of an essential road in eastern Afghanistan's Ghazni Province that connects two poor districts to the provincial capital, Ghazni city, the state-run Radio and Television of Afghanistan (RTA) reported on Wednesday.

The 30-km-long road, which connects the mountainous Ajrustan district to Malistan and continues to the provincial capital, Ghazni city, would be completed within one year at a cost of 346.7 million afghanis (around 5.22 million U.S. dollars), the state-owned media outlet added.

The launch and completion of the project will create job opportunities for locals, and will facilitate the easy transfer of their agricultural products to market, which is important for improving living conditions, RTA further said.

The Afghan government, as part of its efforts to stabilize the local economy, has launched a variety of projects elsewhere in the post-war country, including the construction of roads, check dams, water canals, and solar power plants. 
CHONGQING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Vice Premier Zhang Guoqing has called for accelerated efforts to advance the digital and intelligent transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing sector, while also emphasizing solid work to promote the innovative development of state-owned enterprises.

Efforts should be made to improve and upgrade traditional industries, foster and strengthen emerging industries, make forward-looking plans for future industries, and develop new quality productive forces in accordance with local conditions, Zhang, who is also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said during research trips in Guizhou Province and Chongqing Municipality from Nov. 16 to 19.

Having visited enterprises in sectors such as data services, chemicals, food, metallurgy, automobiles and communication equipment, Zhang noted that advancing the digital and intelligent transformation and upgrading of the manufacturing industry is an urgent necessity to consolidate the foundations of the real economy.

He stressed the importance of promoting the integration of large AI models with enterprises' R&D design, production and manufacturing. He also noted the need to intensify efforts to strengthen the R&D and iterative development of homegrown industrial software, while enhancing its compatibility with production equipment.

Zhang said that state-owned enterprises should continuously enhance their independent innovation capabilities, cultivate new quality productive forces, and gain new competitive advantages through the deep integration of technological and industrial innovation.

Specific efforts should be made to improve institutional arrangements for state-owned enterprises to promote original innovation, increase the proportion of R&D investment in basic research, and achieve more breakthroughs in core technologies, key generic technologies and cutting-edge technologies, he said. 
Exploration of Tender Living to Eerdmans

Lisa Ann Cockrel, acquisitions editor at Eerdmans Publishing, bought world rights to Roger Hutchisons tentatively titled Into the Woulds: A Field Guide to the Inner Life for Tender Souls. Hutchison, author of numerous books for children and adults and director of Childrens and Youth Ministries at Palmer Memorial Episcopal Church in Houston, invites readers through mediations, prompts, and practices to stop performing for a love they already have and step into a gentler, more grounded way of living, said the publisher. The book is slated for 2027. Keely Boeving of WordServe Literary brokered the deal.

WaterBrook Takes Trio from Alabaster

Executive editor Drew Dixon of WaterBrook has acquired world rights to three titles from Alabaster Co. leaders Samuel Han and Brian Chung, via Maria Ribas at Stonesong. These titles will kick off a new line called The Bible Beautiful with Alabaster. Each volume will integrate visual imagery with the scripture. According to the publisher, the first of the three books, The Gospels Collection, will release in summer 2027 and feature the books of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John paired with photography. Two Bible studies will follow with publication dates not yet set.

Herald Bets on Guide to Praying for Community, Nation

Sara Versluis, acquisitions editor for Herald Press, took world rights to Sarah Sandersons tentatively titled On Earth: Praying Gods Will for the Here and Now from Keely Boeving of WordServe Literary. The book follows the author over the course of a year that she spends praying in front of the White House one Saturday every month. It is a prayer guide and work manual that draws from Scripture as well as the wisdom of contemporary social problem-solvers, for Christians who want to learn how to better seek the welfare of their communities and their nation at large, said the publisher. Publication is scheduled for fall 2026.

Morrows Second to Zondervan

Tom Dean of A Drop of Ink Literary has negotiated a world rights dealwith Keren Baltzer, associate publisher at Zondervan Booksfor a second book from content creator and speaker Emily Morrow (Really Very Crunchy) to be released in spring 2027. In the new book, titled Hold Fast, Morrow urges readers to hold fast even when their grip feels weak, and to root themselves in faith, family, conviction, love, and wonder, according to the publisher.

Revell Signs Title for Grieving Women

Revell senior acquisitions editor Kelsey Bowen has taken world rights in a two-book deal with speaker and certified grief coach Bethany Spencer, negotiated by Jenni Burke of Illuminate Literary Agency. The first book, titled Living Lament, is a faith-based and practical guide for grieving Christian women that honors their sorrow and offers trauma-informed tools and strategies to rebuild their lives, said the publisher. This book releases in spring 2027, with the second book TBD.
In the effort to control whats read in schools and libraries around the country, books with inclusive themes and diverse characters have become a flash point. Meanwhile, a vast majority of teachers view inclusive literature as important and want to use these books with their students. Thats according to a recent survey by the National Council for Teachers of English, which offers insight into how books are used in U.S. classrooms and the challenges teachers face in integrating texts to enhance learning and, most importantly, foster passionate readers.

Theres much to parse in the survey results. For one, the most frequently taught books in secondary English classes have remained largely unchanged for decades. However, even in the face of book challenges, ever-shrinking budgets, and politically charged school districts, educators are seeking inclusive literature. Its an opening for the publishing community, libraries, and local organizations to aid teachers.

Of the 4,000 secondary educators polled by NCTE, 95% affirm that its important for children to study diverse literature, that students can build positive self-esteem by seeing themselves in diverse literature, and that reading diverse literature facilitates understanding of diverse perspectives and can increase awareness about important social issues, according to The State of Literature Use in U.S. Secondary English Classrooms, released in July. Moreover, the benefits of inclusive books are supported by research spanning decades.

The irony presented by the survey results is not lost on Rex Ovalle, chair of NCTEs secondary section steering committee, and an English teacher at Oak Park and River Forest High School in Illinois. Despite the overwhelming body of research showing that if we open up the stories, books, texts that we offer our students and try to make them more inclusive in terms of experiences and voices, that it leads to more engaged reading, he says, we still havent made enough progress.

So what are the most taught texts in U.S. classrooms? Romeo and Juliet is number one, followed by The Great Gatsby and The Crucible, according to the NCTE survey. Macbeth, listed fourth, was among the top 10 in 1989, as it was 25 years earlier, in 1964. The fact that students today are very likely reading the same books that their parents and grandparents did is concerning, says Tonya Perry, NCTE president and provost and VP of academic affairs at Miles College in Fairfield, Ala. There are so many more rich texts that are high engagement and reflect the lives of the students we work with each day in the classroom.

Helping Teachers Help Readers

Scripted curricula and legislation restricting book selection notwithstanding, about four out of five teachers reported having choice in the texts that they use. What they lack is the space to maximize that agency. Teachers are stretched to the limit, says Mary Ann Cappiello, a professor of language and literacy in the Graduate School of Education at Lesley University in Cambridge, Mass. With district requirements, cuts to support positions, and the stresses imposed in our political climate, educators are hard-pressed to read, much less relate texts to curriculum development. That happens mostly on the fly, she says.

So how can publishers help teachers access relevant, inclusive titles and maybe shake up those tired book lists?

To serve teachers, think backlist. Is there a way to promote backlist titles for the school setting, while promoting new and upcoming books? Cappiello asks of publishers. For a high school English teacher, a YA novel released in 2018 is probably still new to them. And those titles would likely be available in the school or public library. Curation could center on curricular themesand in conversation across publishers (thats the dream, anyway).

Publisher-produced teacher guides, designed to provide curricular support for select titles, could use an upgrade. Keyed to literacy expectations of the Common Core, which inform state literacy standards, these all start to feel the same, Cappiello observes. Publishers should instead focus on how to use their titles with other texts (think Romeo and Juliet, The Great Gatsby, and others from the list of oldies still in use). Also, addressing a rationale for a newer books place in a classroom would be helpful for teachers, she says, especially those who might otherwise be reluctant to use it.

Teachers also need ongoing professional development about how to teach inclusive texts, Perry says. While anti-LGBTQ+ legislation and a culture of intolerance may contribute to teachers reported reluctance around using books with LGBTQ+ themes and characters, Perry leans into professional development to foster dialogue among educators, which in turn can open doors for young people through books. Diverse texts address issues that students know about, care about, or heard about already, she says. By providing access to literature, teachers are enabling students to apply their own critical thinking. One-and-done wont cut it, she adds. PD must be ongoing, so that teachers can build a cohort as they develop skills to teach diverse content.

NCTE offers tools to help teachers choose which books to include in their curricula, such as its Book Rationale database, with support for 1,400 titles thus far. NCTE membership is required to access the full inventory; however, anyone can view sample rationales, and a template enables teachers to customize or create their own. Rationales help model decision-making on books to use in the curricula, so educators can decide together as a team, instead of having to go it alone. Perry suggests rationales as a springboard for further discussion about titles outside schoolat a local bookstore, for example, or community center.

Teachers can start by using short stories, Ovalle says. Thats often the fastest way to explore a particular voice to see if that perspective would go well with the students. While committing to a novel study might require four to six weeks, a short text can be readily pushed out to students through Google Classroom or PDF, read and discussed, and enable the teacher to decide if something clicked with kids, all in the space of a couple of days. Or, for a couple of years, it works and then its like it just doesnt hit with students anymore, says Ovalle, who ends up replacing half of his short story units every year.

Another option is shifting classrooms to book clubs, with titles thematically linked or connected by genre or subject. That way it becomes less of a high-stakes decision to bring in more diverse texts and maybe feels more manageable while facilitating student choice, Cappiello says.

 There are so many more rich texts that are high engagement and reflect the lives of the students we work with each day in the classroom. 

Teachers, like many of us, could be reading more themselves. There needs to be a kind of protected space for teachers to just read, to read capaciously, Ovalle says. He describes his teacher cohort as a community of people engaged with books, sharing and discussing what theyve read, and trading ideas on how to bring this content into the classroom. The implication of these animated gatherings: inspired teachers who inspire young readers in turn.

To the larger picture, when we support teachers, we support kids, challenged as we all are by digital distraction and a culture in which information and knowledge are devalued in the public sphere. How do we support young people in holding on to their own deep thinking? Cappiello asks. How do we develop the habits of mind to cultivate deep reading? Deep reading causes deep thinking, and thats the only thing thats going to save us as a society.

Kathy Ishizuka is the former editor-in-chief of School Library Journal.
Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, gestures at a regular press conference in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Pan Xu)

BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese mainland spokesperson on Wednesday said Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's recent provocative remarks concerning Taiwan trample on international justice, challenge the post-war international order, and seriously undermine China-Japan relations.

Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, said at a regular conference that Takaichi's remarks attempt to interfere in the situation in the Taiwan Strait, deny the outcomes of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and revive militarism.

"The remarks inevitably give rise to intense questioning and concern from the international community," Zhu said.

She stressed that the Taiwan question is China's internal affair and brooks no external interference, urging Japan to immediately stop meddling in China's internal affairs, cease its provocations, and refrain from going further down the wrong path.

"We hope that our compatriots in Taiwan will recognize the dangers and harmful nature of Japan's related actions, stand with us to resolutely crush all separatist activities aimed at 'Taiwan independence' and foreign interference, and safeguard our shared homeland of the Chinese nation," Zhu said.

In response to Lai Ching-te echoing Takaichi's remarks, Zhu pointed out that the root cause of tensions in the Taiwan Strait lies in the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities' obstinate adherence to the "Taiwan independence" separatist position and their collusion with external forces to seek independence.

Many foreign media outlets, experts, and scholars have recently criticized the DPP authorities for their imprudent and reckless moves, calling them a "destroyer of peace across the Taiwan Strait" and a "troublemaker."

She sternly warned the DPP authorities that relying on external forces to seek independence is nothing but a futile delusion, and anyone who forgets their roots and betrays the nation will be condemned by history. 

Zhu Fenglian, spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, gestures at a regular press conference in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Pan Xu)
At a time when Americas image among ordinary Muslims is overwhelmingly negative, Kosovo stands as a unique example of a country where Muslims wave the American flag with pride. The small Muslim country consistently ranks as one of the most pro-American nations in the world due to past US intervention. It would be foolish for America to ignore the one place where our military intervention was met with sincere gratitude, and where our values and flag are respected to this day.

Beginning after the Second World War, Kosovo and its ethnic Albanian population were under the tight control of Yugoslav authorities. Their language, culture, and Islamic practices were all suppressed. After the fall of Yugoslavia in the 90s, its Serbian-dominated successor state, the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, cracked down even harder on Kosovo, prompting its Albanian population to take up arms in the form of the Ushtria Clirimtare e Kosoves (UCK), the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA). In 1996, the KLA began an insurgency, attacking Yugoslav police stations and government offices. However, before the creation of the KLA, Kosovo had already been inching towards independence through the creation of new Kosovo-specific government institutions that rivaled Belgrades. Nevertheless, in 1998, fighting between the KLA and Yugoslav forces erupted into a full-scale conventional war. While both sides committed atrocities, Yugoslav forces would be responsible for a vast majority of them, specifically carrying out the ethnic cleansing and massacre of Albanian Kosovars.

These crimes would not be ignored. In June of 1998, President Bill Clinton, horrified at Yugoslav atrocities and worried about the condition of displaced Kosovars in the ensuing winter, declared a national emergency. Through the latter half of 1998 and the beginning of 1999, peace talks would fail due to Belgrade's rejection of any post-war NATO administration over Kosovo. NATO geared up for a direct military intervention with the stated goal of Serbs out, peacekeepers in, refugees back. The air campaign crippled Yugoslav forces and led to Yugoslavia accepting NATO terms and withdrawing from Kosovo.

Since then, Kosovo has enjoyed a robust NATO security presence and full recognition from the United States and European allies following its declaration of independence in 2008. However, Kosovo is unique in its unconditional gratitude and love for the United States as a Muslim-majority country. The streets of its capital, Pristina, are adorned with countless American flags. On the honorifically-named Bill Clinton Boulevard in Pristina, an 11-foot statue of Bill Clinton was erected; behind the statue is a giant draped American flag. Unlike in many other Muslim-majority countries, this gratitude for American intervention is not seen. So what gives?

First, Kosovo holds a composite and coherent identity that, unlike most Muslim countries, makes it naturally inclined to align with the West. Kosovo is distinctly European, sharing many cultural traditions with other Southern European groups. Kosovo embraces many European ideals like classical liberalism, democracy, and equality. However, its also distinctly Islamic. Its residents follow a more moderate version of Hanafi Sunni Islam, rendering the country absent from the influences of Salafi radicalization. This combination of Europeanism and moderate Islam helps keep its shared European ideals at the forefront of civic and political life while simultaneously staying true to its Islamic identity. This combination aligns Kosovo with the liberal democratic West while maintaining a cultural bridge to the Muslim world. Moreover, the tiny country directly counters the notion that the Wests values of democracy and classical liberalism are not compatible with Islamic practice. Kosovo proves that religion is not determinative of civilizational allegiance; rather, culture, civic identity, and history are.

Finally, American intervention in Kosovo was swift and welcomed by the local population. By contrast, our intervention in Iraq faced drawn-out insurgencies and foreign meddling from actors such as Iran. This made our military victories there less decisive compared to our victories in Kosovo. But amid growing disillusionment with American interventionism, our policymakers would be remiss to forget the resounding success of American intervention in Kosovo. Our interventions are not perfect, but the growing Iraq Syndrome undermines our national security and moral role; swift campaigns like Kosovos show that decisive action can save lives and build lasting goodwill. Not only did the United States gain a new ally in the region, but we also saved countless lives while helping build a Muslim-majority country, further proving America isnt an enemy of the Muslim world.

To this day, Kosovars continue to have faith in us, even as others have lost faith in our foreign policy and our ability to intervene in humanitarian disasters. America is a moral power, and Kosovo stands as a shining example of our ability to transform nations in our image and spread American values. Kosovo knows that America is great because America is good; let us be the Americans that Kosovars know us to be.

Ayaan Karan is a political science student at UC Berkeley, the President of Young Americans for Freedom at Berkeley, and a member of the Federalist Society. He writes on the intersection of politics, law, and foreign policy, with a focus on constitutional interpretation, energy policy, and international relations.
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By Steven Rogers, 11/18/2025



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Steven Rogers is a senior entertainment reporter for Reality TV World and been covering the reality TV genre for two decades.

alum Lauren Bushnell Lane has welcomed her third child with husband Chris Lane The couple announced the arrival of their first daughter, Logan Lane, on November 14 via Instagram.Lauren shared photos of the newborn, who was born on November 11, and wrote, "Logan Lane ... 11/11 ... We love you sweet little girl!"The new addition joins Lauren and Chris's two sons, Dutton Walker, 4, and Baker Weston, 3.Lauren and Chris announced their pregnancy with their third child at the end of May 2025 through a beachside announcement video.Two months later, the couple revealed the baby's gender with a cupcake-themed gender announcement.The couple had been open about their desire to expand their family several times during the last few years.Lauren competed on 's 20th season starring Ben Higgins , which aired in 2016.Lauren accepted a marriage proposal from Ben during the show's finale but they split and called off their engagement over a year later in May 2017.Lauren previously said how she felt a lot of stress after ended in 2016.Not only did she choose to move away from her family in Los Angeles, CA, to join Ben in Denver, CO, but she was also dealing with headlines about Ben's love for runner-up JoJo Fletcher and the pair quickly jumped into filming a spinoff, Ben & Lauren: Happily Ever After?, which aired on ABC's Freeform sister network.Lauren acknowledged to Us that being engaged when her fiance had just been in love with another woman was "a really hard place" to start off a relationship in the real world.She eventually hit rock bottom during her relationship with Ben.After a year-long romance with real estate investor Devin Antin ended in Summer 2018, Lauren and Chris sparked dating rumors in November of that year when alum accompanied the country crooner to the 66th Annual BMI Country Music Awards in Nashville.Lauren got engaged to Chris in June 2019 and then they got married just four months later in Nashville, TN.Following their October 2019 wedding, Lauren and Chris welcomed Dutton in June 2021.Lauren later gave birth to Baker in October 2022.Interested in more news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
Though the AK and her variants may be the most prolifically used rifle in the world, in some (alright, many) aspects it can be a bit long in the tooth. In the early aughts the lower prices of the AK made for a cheap and fun project gun to tinker with in the garage or workshop  and you could do so on a tight budget.

This article hearkens back to that time, and though the base models may have increased in cost, the modifications havent.

For this article, I used a vanilla homebuild pieced together from a Romanian G kit. Theres absolutely nothing special about this rifle whatsoever, and if youve seen one youve seen them all. Though kit guns are long gone, you can still easily obtain the equivalent  just not at prices from the 2000s.

In the true spirit of the Kalashnikov, every one of these mods is robust and readily performed if youre comfortable with common tools. You can do all of them in one go for under $20. If youre not comfortable with tools, each project also has at least one commercially available alternative  some no doubt even featured inside these very pages.

None of the projects require permanent modification on irreplaceable parts, and the parts you modify are easy to swap out if you end up hating it or simply dick it up too bad. Almost everything shown can be completed with handtools so you can pretend youre in a cave in the Khyber Pass  though the vaunted Dremel is highly recommend for some.

Whether youre just trying to save a little money, want a fun weekend project, or simply desire to make your rifle a bit easier to rock  this ones for you. So, suit up and prepare to do things that will make the purists purple with indignation.

In no particular order:

SIGHTS

One issue with standard AK iron sights is that the slot in the rear sight is just too darn tiny. Lining up your front sight within that small notch may be fine at a static slow-fire range, but at close dynamic ranges where speed is key it can be detrimental. While AKs from some nations have wider rear notches than others, all can be improved. Widening the rear slot not only makes for faster target acquisition, it also wont affect accuracy too much  we are talking AK here after all. While youre at it, you can take off some of the sharp corners if you want.

Opening up the rear with a triangle file is easy. Go slow, keep it square, then touch it up with some cold blue, or my favorite: spray paint. Shoot for a notch between 0.135 and 0.145 inches.

HANDGUARDS

You shoot; the handguards get hot. Science. While some AK handguards have heat shields, not all of them do. Even if you wear gloves, heat can be an issue. One solution is to make your own cheap heat shield, and all thats required is a can of cheap beer.

Its actually important that you go with a cheap brand, because some of the nicer ones have plastic liners on the inside.

Drink the beer. Cut out a handguard-ish section and shove it into the lower handguard. Some guys like to use epoxy to keep it in place, but I dont bother.

While youre at it, if you have a Romanian donkey kong handguard and youre tired of it mucking up your magazine changes, give it the old chop-chop. Play your cards carefully and youll have an Afghan AFG.

LIGHTS

Thereve been a lot of different ways to mount lights on AKs over the years  from handguard replacements to barrel mounts and more. For this you need a piece of add-on Picatinny rail (I used a polymer Magpul MOE section, because I had one laying around), four large washers, and two longer machine screws of the appropriate pitch for your rail.

Assemble the rail with two washers and a nut on each screw. Remove the top handguard, place a washer on either side of the lower handguard, and reinstall the top rail. Tighten. You may have to make a small relief cut to make the rail even, depending on your handguard and rail placement.

No, you wouldnt want to put a laser on it, but now you can mount any rail-compatible light easily to your rifle.

SLING MOUNTS

Mounting anything other than a factory carrying strap can be difficult. You have that small front attachment point, and further complicating matters, the rear attach point is sub-optimal for modern slings.

Make a better front point with 8 inches of 1/16 coated steel cable and a pair of ferrule stops. My cable happened to be ugly green; maybe youll have better luck. Use the ferrule stops to make a loop with the coated cable, ensuring to remove the plastic that goes inside the stops. Clamp it down. If you want to get fancy, put some heat-shrink tape on it. Loop it through the factory front point and attach your sling. Using two ferrule stops allows for a rigid section thats a perfect place for your sling.

There are two ways to take care of the rear mount: You can either remove the buttplate and loop some 550 cord around the top screw and replace the plate, or simply move the rear sling mount from the bottom of the buttstock to the outside top. If youre doing the latter, ensure that you dont inadvertently screw through the channel for the cleaning kit.

SUPER SAFETY

There are several beneficial mods you can perform on the AK safety. Many guns, especially ones built from kits in America, feature a full-auto selector. No, it doesnt do anything cool for you like make it go bang faster, and it can actually be a hazard.

The auto portion of the safety pushes against your disconnector and drops the hammer during removal, and sometimes does this even if you just snap it on safe too hard. No bueno. Simply contour that tab to match a semi-auto safety and not only will it be easier to remove and reinstall, but its also much safer as well.

Unless youre using some very particular models, your AK doesnt have the ability to reliably lock the bolt to the rear. Bust out that Dremel and cut a charging-handle-sized notch in it. Now you can pull the bolt back and sweep up the safety to lock the carrier in place, which is especially handy on ranges that require a bolt locked back when the line is cold.

If you have fingers like a bass player, the AK safety is probably easy to employ. For those of us with human-sized phalanges, it can be a right pain in the ass. I used some scrap metal to add a tab to the safety for easy manipulation with the trigger finger. I happened to spot-weld the tab in place, but Ive also seen it done with rivets and other forms of welding. Deburr and spray paint when complete.

GET A GRIP

While currently grips on AR-15s are becoming more and more upright and AK-esque, there are some out there who want an AR grip on an AK. While you can buy an adapter, its not needed for most of them. Obtain your desired grip that doesnt have a high backstrap.

Hog out the front and top with a Dremel to match an AK grip. Drill a new grip screw hole and insert a shorter M6 screw. A2 grips make perfect project grips for this. Remove the nubbin on the front or stipple to your hearts content. The inside will be rough, but no one sees that anyway.

FLUFF N BUFF

No, dont use sandpaper. Just a little polish on the rails and bearing surfaces to smooth it out. Youll be pleased with the results.
The Athens-Clarke County Police Department responded to an armed robbery early Nov. 9 after a man arrived at a Baxter Street hospital reporting he had been attacked with a box cutter, according to a police report. The victim, who was seeking treatment for a deep leg wound, told an ACCPD officer he had been robbed at his daughters apartment less than an hour earlier.
HONG KONG, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Hong Kong's maritime industry is bringing together all the key ingredients that are needed to sustain a global maritime capital, said Chairman of Hong Kong Shipowners Association (HKSOA) Angad Banga in a recent interview with Xinhua.

"I can say that I'm extremely excited about Hong Kong's future as a global maritime capital," he said, highlighting the advantages of "one country, two systems" and Hong Kong's position as an international financial center as pivotal drivers of this excitement.

"Our unique 'one country, two systems' allows Hong Kong to benefit from China's dynamism with the international rules-based and common law framework that underpins global trade," Banga said.

He said Hong Kong is not only a "super connector" for companies gaining access to China, but also acts as a base helping Chinese companies go global, further enhancing the region's rise as a maritime center and a financial center.

On the other hand, having a thriving financial ecosystem is important to underpin the backbone of the maritime industry, Banga said, stressing that Hong Kong is a great place to raise capital for maritime-related and port-related companies, particularly given the capital-intensive nature of energy transition initiatives and decarbonization efforts.

He also emphasized Hong Kong's role as the world's leading offshore RMB hub with the smooth operation of the Linked Exchange Rate System and the expanded pilot scope of digital RMB, supporting the internationalization of the RMB and bringing significant benefits to global trade.

Hong Kong has sustained performance in the Global Financial Centers Index, where the region was ranked third globally and first in the Asia Pacific. Notably, its rating gaps with New York and London have narrowed.

Speaking at the World Maritime Merchants Forum 2025 on Monday, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee said that for the sixth consecutive year, Hong Kong has ranked fourth globally in the International Shipping Center Development Index, excelling in port infrastructure, maritime services, and its overall operating environment.

Banga also underscored the creation of the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board, which was announced in the chief executive's policy address last year and formally launched on July 1.

"Leveraging industry participation and government participation, we're bringing together the ingredients that are now needed," he said, adding that there are 1,200 maritime companies in Hong Kong today employing over 90,000 people.

"We're a melting pot of different cultures, different nationalities, different languages, in one of the freest economies in the world that allows all of this to take place," Banga said.

Globalization is facing headwinds with a rise of protectionism and nationalism to levels unseen in the last decades. However, regardless of global shifts, Hong Kong must continue to harness the Lion Rock Spirit to strengthen its competitive edge, striving to evolve from being a resilient global maritime center to a thriving global maritime capital, he said. 
The "Sky Factory" will be one of the world's largest for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), a manufacturing and assembly process to make electric aircraft that can take off, hover, and land vertically.

It will put India on the "map of next-generation aviation" and marks one of the most ambitious eVTOL initiatives in the world, said a state government statement.

Photograph: Kind courtesy Sarla Aviation/X

Andhra Pradesh will partner with Karnataka-based Sarla Aviation to set up India's first "giga-scale" cluster to manufacture electric air taxis in Anantapur district for an investment of Rs 1,300 crore, it was announced on Tuesday.

The "Sky Factory" will be one of the world's largest for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL), a manufacturing and assembly process to make electric aircraft that can take off, hover, and land vertically.

It will put India on the "map of next-generation aviation" and marks one of the most ambitious eVTOL initiatives in the world, said a state government statement.

Sarla and the Andhra Pradesh Airport Development Corporation Ltd (APADCL) signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) at the CII Partnership Summit 2025 in Visakhapatnam, agreeing to set up a fully integrated eVTOL cluster.

The agreement was signed a week after Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu told the summit that the state expects to manufacture drone taxis within two years.

The first phase of Sky Factory will see an investment commitment of Rs 330 crore and the development of a 150-acre manufacturing and testing campus in Thimmasamduram village, Kalyanadurg Mandal, Anantapur.

Equipped with the latest production lines, research and development centres, composite labs and a dedicated 2 km runway, Sky Factory will create a "seamless" value chain for building, testing, certifying and maintaining eVTOL aircraft.

The project will generate "high-value employment", including 40 specialised jobs and 140 indirect jobs by 2027, with plans to expand to an additional 350 acres in the second phase.

Once fully operational, Sky Factory will have the capacity to annually manufacture up to 1,000 aircraft, including flagship platforms such as the Shunya hybrid VTOL and a range of indigenously produced electrical harness systems, landing-gear assemblies and advanced composite structures.

"With the world's biggest Sky Factory, we want to make India the nerve centre for the next era of flight. This giga facility will shape the aircraft of the future, create thousands of high-skill jobs, and establish India as a global force in sustainable aerial mobility. Our goal is simple: let India design, build, test, fly and operate the world's most advanced eVTOL systems from one integrated campus," said Rakesh Gaonkar, cofounder and chief technology officer of Sarla Aviation.

The Andhra Pradesh government, through APADCL, will serve as a strategic facilitator to fast-track project implementation and ensure ecosystem readiness.

"This collaboration represents a major stride in the state's mission to become India's capital of advanced manufacturing," said the statement.

Founded in 2023 by veterans of the global eVTOL industry, Sarla Aviation is designing a six-seater electric flying taxi that aims to shrink commute times in India's busiest metros.

The company, backed by private equity investor Accel, targets commercial operations by 2029 and envisions making India a global powerhouse in electric aviation.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
Just over a year ago, India was investors' top pick among EMs. Its slide down the rankings follows $30 billion (over 2.5 trillion) of foreign selling over the past 1213 months.

India has become the least favoured market among global emerging-market (GEM) investors.

A note from HSBC shows that India is now the biggest underweight in GEM portfolios, with only a quarter of the funds tracked still overweight on the country.

This comes as India's neutral weight in the MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index has dropped to a two-year low of 15.25 per cent after a year of steep underperformance.

The underweight call means fund managers are allocating less than the benchmark (neutral weight of) 15.25 per cent to India in their EM portfolios.

Just over a year ago, India was investors' top pick among EMs. Its slide down the rankings follows $30 billion (over 2.5 trillion) of foreign selling over the past 1213 months.

However, light foreign investor positioning is seen as a bullish sign, with HSBC and Goldman Sachs turning 'overweight' on India.

"India's year to date underperformance of 27 percentage points against EM, largest in two decades, was triggered by a mix of peak starting valuations and cyclical growth slowdown that led us to downgrade our view on India in Oct last year. We now see a case for India to perform better next year, with growth-supportive policies, earnings revival, supportive positioning and defensible valuations," said a note by Goldman Sachs. The US-based brokerage has upgraded the domestic market to 'overweight' has set a Nifty target of 29,000.

"Foreign funds have pared their India exposure quite meaningfully. A large part of this shift came as investors piled into artificial intelligence (AI) plays in Asia through Korean and Taiwanese tech stocks and Chinese internet names," said Herald van der Linde, head of equity strategy for Asia-Pacific at HSBC.

He said the AI trade has become crowded, leaving many investors "uncomfortable".

"We see India as a useful AI hedge and a source of diversification for those uncomfortable with the AI frenzy," van der Linde added, saying that foreign inflows to India are likely to pick up in the coming months.

That trend may already have begun. In October, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) were net buyers of Indian equities, bringing in 11,050 crore.

Some market watchers say the shift reflects selling in China.

"Indian and Chinese equities are often seen as opposing counterweights. If one moves higher, the other falls. The idea is that foreign investors fund a rally in China by selling Indian equities and vice versa," said the bank's chief Asia equity strategist.

This time, however, could be different.

"We think both India and Mainland China can do well together. The current rally in China is being driven mainly by local investors, with little foreign participation. Chinese households hold large cash reserves and remain underexposed to equities. We expect them to stay active buyers," he said.
Before booking a flat, buyers should confirm that the project is registered with the state's Rera portal.

Kindly note that this illustration generated using ChatGPT has only been posted for representational purposes.

In the Hitendrakumar Bhaichandbhai Panchal vs Piramal Estate Pvt Limited case, the homebuyer alleged that the developer's refusal to share information delayed the approval of his State Bank of India home loan.

The Maharashtra Real Estate Regulatory Authority (MahaRera), however, held that the project was duly registered.

All disclosures were available online, and hence the builder was not responsible for the delay.

The case underlines the need for buyers to make better use of state Rera Web sites.

Check Rera registration

Before booking a flat, buyers should confirm that the project is registered with the state's Rera portal.

"Registration means the builder has shared all key project details -- land title, approvals, layout, possession timelines, and pending cases -- on a government platform. This ensures that the project is genuine and monitored by the regulator," says Shankey Agrawal, partner, BMR Legal.

"It also prevents fund diversion, as builders must keep 70 per cent of buyers' money in a dedicated account for that project," added Agrawal.

Registration also provides buyers with legal rights to seek refunds or compensation for delays or violations.

Checks to run before booking

Before paying or signing any agreement, buyers should review the project's registration certificate, approved layout plans, title documents, encumbrances, litigation history, possession timeline and the draft sale agreement on the Rera Web site.

Verified disclosures help confirm the project's legality and the builder's compliance track record.

Assess developer's track record

The Rera portal offers a clear view of a developer's past and ongoing projects, delays, complaints and penalties.

"A developer with timely completions and few disputes is more reliable, while one with repeated extensions or pending cases may pose a higher risk. This kind of due diligence helps buyers avoid problematic projects," says Agrawal.

Post-purchase informatioNn

After purchase, buyers should monitor the Rera portal for quarterly progress reports, construction updates with photographs, extensions, occupancy or completion certificates, and details of society formation or land conveyance.

These updates help track project status and spot deviations early.

Developers must update project information within 15 days of every quarter.

"Buyers should review these to check if timelines and approvals are on track, and specifications are not being changed.

"They should use Rera's transparency structure to stay informed and raise issues when needed," says Prashant Thakur, executive director and head, research and advisory, Anarock Group.

Common mistakes buyers make

Many homebuyers still overlook the Rera portal and rely on brochures, ads and sales pitches instead.

"Some skip checking project registration or ignore progress updates, risking financial loss and disputes.

"The Rera website is a government-verified source of authentic project details. Using it helps buyers verify claims, track progress and spot red flags early," says Agrawal.

Buyers commit several other mistakes as well.

"They often skip verifying statutory disclosures, overlook unilateral agreement clauses, make undocumented payments, and ignore revised timelines -- mistakes that reduce their legal options," says Thakur.

"The Rera Web site is an effective way for homebuyers to track project progress, yet many remain unaware of the registration requirements applicable to developers and the detailed information readily available on the Authority's Web site," says Manmeet Kaur, partner, Karanjawala & Co.

Make the most of Rera disclosures

Buyers should monitor disclosures before and during their homebuying journey.

"Using the Rera registration number, they can access updated disclosures, verify developer assurances, and check that 70 per cent of funds collected are deposited in the separate project account as required by Rera," says Kaur.

The Rera Web site should be buyers' primary reference point.

"It is user-friendly and provides more reliable details than other sources. Rera should be the first stop, not an afterthought, when checking a project's background," says Thakur.

RERA portal tools buyers should leverage

Complaint dashboard: Shows project-specific complaints and non-compliance patterns

Promoter profiles: Reveal lawsuits, past delays and completed projects

Project comparison tools: Allow comparisons across states

AI-powered delay alerts: Flag stalled projects

Source: Anarock Group

Disclaimer: This article is meant for information purposes only. This article and information do not constitute a distribution, an endorsement, an investment advice, an offer to buy or sell or the solicitation of an offer to buy or sell any securities/schemes or any other financial products/investment products mentioned in this article to influence the opinion or behaviour of the investors/recipients.

Any use of the information/any investment and investment related decisions of the investors/recipients are at their sole discretion and risk. Any advice herein is made on a general basis and does not take into account the specific investment objectives of the specific person or group of persons. Opinions expressed herein are subject to change without notice.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
The Congress' performance in the Lok Sabha elections showed that it may be down but not out, and Modi is determined to ensure that in the next round in 2029, it is consigned to irrelevance, points out Saisuresh Sivaswamy.

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi celebrates the National Democratic Alliance's massive win in the Bihar assembly election in New Delhi, November 14, 2025. Photograph: Narendra Modi Photo Gallery/ ANI Photo

That Prime Minister Narendra Modi reserves his severest of verbal attacks for the Congress, in particular for Rahul Gandhi is well known.

That this attack predates his prime ministership is also a fact.

What is puzzling, however, is why he continues to single out the Congress even when the party has been repeatedly delivered an electoral KO.

In his continuing diatribe at the Congress through the run-up to the Bihar elections and the counting of votes, two instances stand out because the occasion didn't merit such a message.

One, of course, was last Friday, when the counting of votes in Bihar showed the National Democratic Alliance in an unassailable position and the Mahagathbandhan in tatters, especially the Congress which had plumbed a new electoral low in the state.

That evening at the BJP headquarters in New Delhi was meant to be one of celebration, the symbolic raising a toast to the NDA that had roared to power in Patna.

What will the prime minister say was a question that hung heavily in the air.

Would he announce that incumbent chief minister Nitish Kumar will return to office?

Or would he, as part of a deal struck earlier, announce that the Bharatiya Janata Party was rightfully claiming the state's top job, after propping up Nitish Kumar as chief minister for the last five years?

While these questions remained, his castigation of the Congress leadership on the occasion took his customary attack on the party to a whole new level.

'Today, the Congress has become the Muslim League-Maoist Congress, that is, MMC. The kind of negative politics that the party's leaders are engaged in has created the possibility of another major division in the Congress!'

That the Congress was under the thrall of 'urban Maoists' was an earlier refrain from Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, and the Muslim League allusion had been made by another blue-eyed boy in the BJP, Assam Chief Minister Hemanta Biswa Sarma.

It was up to to the prime minister to bring the two accusations together to tar the Congress.

In the aftermath of the 2014 Lok Sabha elections in which the Congress faced its worst drubbing ever, Sonia Gandhi was asked the reasons for the party's poor showing.

She was candid enough to admit that the party had come to be identified as a pro-Muslim party, meaning that Hindu voters had turned away from it.

IMAGE: Congress leader Rahul Gandhi at an election rally in Amarpur, Banka, Bihar. Photograph: AICC/ANI Photo

Modi's 'Muslim-League-Maoist' allusion thus brings together the two worst possible political epithets in contemporary India to damn the Congress till eternity.

After the victory speech at the BJP headquarters on Friday, Modi's second attack in three days on the Congress came at the Indian Express newspaper's Ramnath Goenka Lecture in New Delhi on Monday.

The occasion: A celebration of the doyen of Indian publishing who gave a new dimension to journalism.

That Goenka's publication has always been considered an anti-Establishment newspaper was besides the point.

In between lauding his government's achievements, Modi made two important points in his address.

One, what he considers to be the election-winning mantra for today.

'I would very humbly appeal to every state government in the country, be it left, right, centre, and governments of all ideologies that the results of Bihar give us this lesson that the kind of government you run today will determine the future of your political party in the coming years.'

...'Whether it is our government at the Centre or governments of different parties in the states, our highest priority should be just development, development, and only development. And that is why I say to every state government that compete to create a better investment environment in your state, compete to improve ease of doing business, compete to move ahead on development parameters and then see how the people place their trust in you.'

IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge and Rahul Gandhi meets with senior party leaders from 12 states where the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) is underway at Indira Bhawan in New Delhi, November 18, 2025. Photograph: AICC/ANI Photo

In other words, focus on development, development, development to win the elections and for your party to remain relevant.

Valid enough, coming from the victor of consecutive elections for who the 2024 Lok Sabha electoral setback, in which the Congress emerged as the main Opposition party for the first time since 2014, is a distant blip, if at all.

Then came the upper cut for the Congress from a dais commemorating Goenka's life and times and his contribution to journalism.

'The scope of Naxalism and Maoist violence has been shrinking rapidly across the country, but it has been growing equally active within the Congress. ...It was the misfortune of the country that the Congress nurtured and supported Maoist terrorism, which rejects the Indian Constitution. And not just in remote forest areas, the Congress also nourished the roots of Naxalism in the cities. The Congress established urban Naxal sympathisers in many big institutions.

'The urban Naxals and Maoist forces that infiltrated the Congress 10-15 years ago have now turned the Congress into the Muslim League-Maoist Congress (MMC). And today, I say this with full responsibility that this Muslim League-Maoist Congress has abandoned national interest for its own selfish motives. Today's Muslim League-Maoist Congress is becoming a major threat to the unity of the country.'

IMAGE: Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge addresses a press conference in Patna. Photograph: ANI Photo

In just three days, the prime minister has travelled from branding the Congress as the 'Muslim League-Maoist Congress' to 'abandoning national interest' and 'becoming a major threat to the national unity of the country'.

Even as it begs the question if the government actually had evidence to back its claim, and if it did why no action under the various laws of the country was being taken, the point remains: Why has the prime minister sharpened his attack on the Congress, painting the party of the freedom movement as being traitorous?

The ratcheted-up condemnation the Congress and its leadership is a carefully thought-out campaign with a definitive outcome.

It may be fodder for the legions of reels-suffused WhatsApp University adherents for who the memes received on their phones have the weight that the Encyclopaedia Britannica had for earlier generations, but there is a deeper game-plan behind the broadside.

Modi himself gave it away in his Friday victory speech: 'A major division in the Congress', which despite various electoral setbacks manages to stay afloat, even if with a reduced voteshare, and remains the only party that can take on Modi nationwide.

The Congress' performance in the Lok Sabha elections showed that it may be down but not out, and Modi is determined to ensure that in the next round in 2029, it is consigned to irrelevance.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
'When you compare Bihar's poverty from its earlier times, then there is a huge difference. Things have improved a lot. And migration has played an important role in reducing poverty.'

IMAGE: Bihari migrants working in Maharashtra arrive at the Patna railway station to go to their native places during the COVID-19 pandemic, April 13, 2021. Photograph: ANI Photo

Nitish Kumar's sweeping victory in the Bihar assembly elections surprised many observers who expected economic distress, limited industrial growth and chronic unemployment to fuel public anger.

Yet Bihar's voters delivered a decisive mandate, signaling satisfaction with changes they felt in their daily lives.

To understand this paradox, Syed Firdaus Ashraf/Rediff spoke with Alakh N Sharma, professor and director at the Institute for Human Development, New Delhi.

Professor Sharma has conducted extensive research on migration in Bihar and offers crucial insights into why remittances, rising rural wages, better infrastructure and the growing influence of women voters played a decisive role in the victory for Nitish Kumar and the National Democratic Alliance.

What is your study on migration that commentators are talking about after Nitish Kumar's spectacular victory?

It is about the migration of people of Bihar to other states. This started in 1980s on a small scale but by the 1990s to 2000 the numbers started rising dramatically.

We then did a survey of rural households in Bihar and found out that 65 percent of them have migrated.

Don't confuse this with the whole population because children and women do not migrate in this survey. What we found was that those who migrated in the 1980s were poor people who migrated, but not more than four months. They used to go to Punjab and do agricultural labour or work in factories and come back.

The trend started changing after the 1990s when the poor migrated to other places in India and that duration was for a longer period of nine months. Women did not migrate in big numbers, only 5 percent of the women of Bihar migrated.

How did Nitish Kumar benefit in votes due to migration?

50 percent of migrant household income comes from remittance money. They cannot earn in their villages so they have no other option but to go out and earn.

As far as Nitish Kumar getting advantage on this factor, it is that the women of migrant workers started getting empowered. They started getting money straight in their hands. They could then take family decisions on their own. Plus these women get benefit from Nitish Kumar's government schemes and the old ladies get pension too.

The government has also constructed migration centres in many towns of Bihar but I have not done a study on how effective these centres function.

The most important factor, though, is the roads and electricity have improved a lot in Bihar. Migrant workers when they come back home, they see a huge difference as they see that it is easier to reach their home because of better infrastructure. This created goodwill for Nitish Kumar.

Migrant workers also feel happy to see that their homes have power supply in the night too which makes them happy as they do not have to worry that their families are sitting in the dark while they are happily sitting in the lit up cities of India. And here people talk of stopping the migration from Bihar.

Do you feel the Rashtriya Janata Dal's statement that it would halt migration from Bihar if it came to power backfired on the RJD?

I will not make a political comment on that because I am an academician and not a politician.

No country or state can stop migration. Mumbai city is full of migrants. And now if 2/3rds of the population in Bihar's villages are migrants, then this needs to slow down at some point of time.

You cannot stop the migration of people from Bihar overnight.

Human beings always look for opportunities that will make their lives better.

And one has to understand, people are migrating out of Bihar because there are no job opportunities in the state. Even if there are jobs, it does not provide quality employment.

So the job of the government is to gradually enable people to get good jobs but then this has to be done gradually and cannot be done overnight.

I only pray that in future the migration from Bihar drops to 50 percent from the current 65 percent. This needs to be done because no society can depend on migrants' money alone.

How has migration improved the quality of life for the people of Bihar under Nitish Kumar?

Prior to Nitish Kumar, that is before 2005, when Bihar's growth rate was less, migration remittance money played an important role in whatever growth the state had.

And the most important thing migration did to Bihar was it destroyed the feudal order of the state.

Today, people want to employ labourers but they do not get them in Bihar easily. This has resulted the bargaining power of labour force in Bihar as they demand more money.

Does it mean that Bihari labourers and agricultural workers get paid substantive amounts now?

Yes, their pay has increased three times compared to that in the last 30 years. There is a labour shortage and therefore the demand for workforce is huge.

Bihar consistently ranks among the poorest states, with one of the lowest per capita incomes in India. Conventional wisdom suggests that voters punish governments for economic distress. Why didn't this happen in Bihar?

Yes, it is true Bihar is the poorest state, but then there are other states too that are equally poor, like Odisha, Jharkhand and Chhattisgarh.

But when you compare Bihar's poverty from its earlier times, then there is a huge difference. Things have improved a lot. And migration has played an important role in reducing poverty.

In our study, when the money trickles from outside Bihar into homes, the first thing the family does back home is that they ensure they get proper food daily. The second thing that they spend most is on making their homes. They want to make good homes so they spend on construction of their homes.

What kind of money is remitted on an average?

In our study the average annual remittances per migrant household in Bihar is about Rs 48,662, which translates to Rs 4,000 per month.

Is Rs 4,000 a month good enough for a family of, say, three in rural Bihar?

Yes, it is decent enough. 4-5 people stay in one room and they cook food and eat. They wander and stay in the village the whole day so they survive with decent meals.

It is a different thing that the migrant worker who has gone out of the village for his family is putting in a lot of hard work to keep his family well fed back home. This is the reason migration goes on from Bihar.

What impact does migration have on the women of rural Bihar?

Now if men are not at home, then it is the women taking decisions. Nitish Kumar by giving women dole from the government has already established goodwill for his party. This has given them financial independence.

Earlier, women never ventured out in the village markets but now they do and take decisions on buying household items. Women are more mobile in Bihar now. This has created a dedicated women vote bank for Nitish Kumar.

So what is Bihar lacking in right now?

Right now, the quality of education is what Bihar lacks. We have to improve that. One teacher, one school has become the norm in government schools. Nobody wants to go to government schools and everyone is rushing to private schools.

Is there no anger then on issues like education or for that matter unemployment due to lack of factories?

Bihar has only about three factories per lakh population, whereas Gujarat has around 43. Does this fact not make the voters of Bihar angry?

You've got to understand the mobility of labour from Bihar has improved a lot in the last 10 years. Many take flights to travel to Bihar from other states. There are fast trains that are well connected. People reach their native place in Bihar faster and these changes make them feel happy. They travel on good roads in Bihar.

They do compare what we were before Nitish and what we are now under Nitish. They feel good about it.

However, when an educated youth of Bihar sees the same things he finds it superficial and feels Bihar needs a change of government because there are no jobs.

Therefore, educated youth supported the RJD and uneducated youth supported Nitish.

There is a job crisis for sure as there are no good jobs in Bihar but that does not matter to the migratory unemployed youth who are out of the the state for a living and their family members.

Is this migration level sustainable in future?

Migration will always be there in Bihar and it is not good for the state. The population of youth is huge in Bihar. The fertility rate is very high in Bihar and the population size too is big.

Are you surprised by Nitish Kumar's victory?

I felt he would win for sure, but I did not expect this huge mandate. But these things happen in elections, so one should not be surprised.

And let us acknowledge the fact that women have voted in huge numbers for Nitish Kumar.
'...the electoral playing field is tilted significantly in its favour.'

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi greets supporters as the National Democratic Alliance wins the Bihar assembly elections at the Bharatiya Janata Party headquarters in New Delhi, November 14, 2025. Photograph: Rahul Singh/ANI Photo

Unbelievable. Unprecedented. Unmatched.

Just some of the adjectives used to describe the Bihar assembly election results by those who crisscrossed the state trying to sense the mood of its people.

"Political momentum must be carefully cultivated, and a strong organisation coupled with a clear, compelling narrative is crucial for electoral success. The Opposition lacked both," Zoya Hasan, the eminent political scientist and Professor Emerita, Centre for Political Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, tells Rediff's Shobha Warrier.

An unemployment rate of 9.6%, above the national average of 6.9%. 33% of the population below the poverty line compared to the 0.55% in Kerala. 57 lakh Biharis migrate for work outside the state.

Still, the incumbent chief minister is re-elected. Were you surprised by the Bihar assembly results?

Yes, I am surprised by the Bihar results, which were completely unforeseen.

All poll surveys predicted the NDA to win, but even they did not predict a mandate of this scale.

The NDA winning 202 seats out of 243 seats despite no substantial improvement in jobs, education, healthcare, or law and order, is unexpected and astounding.

It shows how factors beyond governance performance shaped the outcome: Targeted cash transfers to women, wider social caste coalitions, Nitish Kumar's late surge in sympathy, and accusations against the Rashtriya Janata Dal of 'jungle raj' -- all worked together to produce a result far bigger than anticipated.

The election disrupted traditional caste-based calculations and highlighted the Opposition's strategic and tactical weaknesses.

Political momentum must be carefully cultivated, and a strong organisation coupled with a clear, compelling narrative is crucial for electoral success. The Opposition lacked both.

Do you think the Rs 10,000 bank deposit promised to poor women was the main reason for this unprecedented result? The freebie culture.

The same prime minister who criticised revadi culture approves of it during the elections....

Yes, the direct benefit schemes for women and the distribution of Rs 10,000 during the election campaign had a major impact on women voters gravitating towards the NDA and the JD-U.

The Mukhyamantri Mahila Rojgar Yojana was announced on September 25, and the first transfer covering 75 lakh women was made on September 26, before the Model Code of Conduct came into force.

However, subsequent disbursements continued into October, after the MCC had been imposed.

Opposition parties formally challenged this as a violation, but the Election Commission did not intervene, citing the scheme as 'ongoing'.

Even if it did not technically breach the MCC, the timing of the transfers was ethically questionable.

The scheme, described by many critics as effectively a 'bribe', proved to be a major draw, and it played a decisive role in the NDA's sweeping victory without any questions asked. This is a key issue in the Bihar election.

IMAGE: Nitish Kumar thanks Biharis for the National Democratic Alliance's massive victory in the Bihar assembly election at Veer Chand Patel Path in Patna, November 17, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

This time, the BJP did not talk of Hindutva in Bihar. Do you think instead of consolidating Hindu votes, they consolidated women's votes with the Rs 10,000?

There was no overt Hindutva talk in this election. Instead, the NDA consolidated the women's vote through the Rs 10,000 cash transfers, but its landslide victory cannot be explained by this alone.

Undoubtedly, the phased cash transfers that overlapped with the poll process created a sustained perception of direct economic benefit.

Second, electoral roll revisions and deletions undertaken by the ECI had their own impact.

Third, the NDA succeeded in forging a broader social-caste coalition than the Mahagathbandhan, whose support remained largely confined to a Muslim-Yadav base.

The RJD was seen over-allocating tickets to its core constituents instead of widening its social outreach.

Unlike the Samajwadi Party in UP, which expanded its social coalition in the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, the RJD failed to move beyond the Muslim-Yadav combination.

Also, the Opposition parties, especially the Congress, gave disproportionate attention to allegations of 'vote chori', rather than focusing on substantive issues such as livelihood and employment.

Trains overflowing with Biharis from Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Karnataka went to Bihar to vote.

Opposition parties rightly called out the BJP for ferrying voters on sponsored trains.

But the EC overlooked these complaints, ignoring allegations of the BJP paying for out of the state voters to travel to Bihar on special trains

The election's timing just after Chhath Puja seems to have played a part in the process.

Modi and Nitish Kumar reminded people of 'jungle raj', which Bihar was under Lalu Prasad Yadav. Do you think it had an impact?

Yes, the 'jungle raj' narrative and the fear of its return played a major role in consolidating voters behind the NDA.

Tejashwi Yadav struggled to counter this framing, something Akhilesh Yadav managed more successfully in Uttar Pradesh.

IMAGE: Nitish Kumar meets Bihar Governor Arif Mohammed Khan at Raj Bhavan in Patna, November 17, 2025. Photograph: ANI Photo

Do you feel the BJP is undefeatable and unstoppable in northern India? What is it that makes the BJP undefeatable?

The BJP is not undefeatable in north India, but the electoral playing field is tilted significantly in its favour.

A level playing field in any election depends on both the resources available to competing parties and the conduct of key institutions.

The combination of funds raised through electoral bonds, and the use of public money to deliver benefits during elections contributed to an uneven electoral landscape.

In addition, the patterns of electoral manipulation from voter deletions to selective additions and to biases in the functioning of the Election Commission place the Opposition at a further structural disadvantage.

The importance of institutional independence and a level playing field cannot be overstated.

What kind of impact will the Bihar election results have on the national political scene?

The Bihar election results are likely to have significant implications for the national political landscape.

For the BJP, the outcome reinforces its dominance in the Hindi heartland and provides a strategic platform to expand into Bengal and the southern states, which have so far been more challenging to penetrate.

The results are even more consequential for the Opposition. The alliance of the RJD, Congress and the Left parties suffered huge setbacks, underscoring the need to rethink their strategy and emphasising the critical importance of unity.

Although the RJD secured the largest vote share, it failed to convert this into seats due to poor seat-sharing arrangements and vote-splitting.

After the Bihar debacle, the Congress faces its greatest challenge, as the party won just six out of the 61 seats it contested.

The Congress is struggling to balance its social justice agenda with allegations of electoral manipulation. As of now, the disconnect between the two has weakened its message.

Voters may perceive the claims of vote theft as insufficiently substantiated and somewhat disconnected from their lived realities.

IMAGE: Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar inspects the preparations at Gandhi Maidan in Patna, November 18, 2025, ahead of the swearing-in ceremony scheduled for November 20, here and below. Photograph: ANI Photo

This is a massive sweep by the NDA. Would you call it a pro-Nitish Kumar vote?

This was a massive sweep, typically seen during a wave, but such a wave went unnoticed by the hundreds of media personnel and activists who had been reporting and working in Bihar over the past few months.

The mandate is undoubtedly a vote for Nitish Kumar.

In fact, the BJP's hesitation to project him as the chief ministerial candidate appears to have triggered a late surge of support, even a sympathy wave, among voters who felt he was being side-lined.

What do you think Nitish Kumar did that gave him such a mandate? Other than the freebies.

The NDA's victory reflects Nitish Kumar's enduring influence over the Bihar electorate, rooted not just in material incentives or freebies but in his image as a non-polarising, pragmatic leader.

Despite his frequent shifts in political alliances, he is widely perceived as someone who prioritises governance and development.

Voters seem to value his ability to maintain relative stability and deliver on developmental promises, which reinforces trust in his leadership beyond short-term social policy measures.

Photograph: ANI Photo

In a capitalist, Islamophobic America, an unapologetic Muslim and a socialist called Zohran Mamdani could win the prestigious New York mayoral election by promising solutions to the problems people of the city face.

How do you compare this with the Bihar election?

Zohran Mamdani won the New York mayoral race, the richest city in the world's wealthiest country, on a platform focused on affordability, free public transport, and a democratic-socialist vision aimed at inclusivity.

In stark contrast, Bihar was won by the wealthiest party in one of the country's poorest states.

This paradox highlights a key feature of contemporary Indian politics: Material deprivation does not automatically translate into support for parties advocating economic redistribution.

Instead, voter behaviour is shaped by a mix of cash transfers, identity politics, narrative framing, and perceptions of stability and security.

Feature Presentation: Aslam Hunani/Rediff
'Can a nuclear-armed nation sustain itself indefinitely under overt military rule without catastrophic consequences for itself and the region? History suggests otherwise.'

IMAGE: Pakistan's army chief Syed Asim Munir addresses troops in Mangla. Photograph: Inter-Services Public Relations/Handout via Reuters

In the concluding part of this exclusive interview with Prasanna D Zore/Rediff, Avinash Mohananey, a retired Intelligence Bureau officer who spent a considerable time in Pakistan on security assignments, outlines India's strategic imperatives in response to Pakistan's unprecedented military consolidation under the 27th constitutional amendment.

Mohananey argues that while Pakistan's internal power struggles might appear to present opportunities, India must exercise strategic caution and maintain traditional diplomatic channels.

From India's perspective, how should New Delhi be reading the developments in Pakistan? Do Pakistan's internal power struggles make it more unpredictable, or do they weaken its ability to pursue aggressive posturing against India?

Firstly, Pakistan coming under complete army control -- or moving overtly towards army control -- is not good news for India. Previously, it was covertly under army control; now they are attempting to give it a civilian facade (through the 27th constitutional amendment).

The problem is that civilian governments utilise diplomatic channels to convey messages. They do not necessarily deploy military might to deal with neighbours or the wider world.

The moment the army becomes powerful, the foreign office becomes weak. The foreign office is obviously the major input provider to the prime minister.

My point is this: If there is no political control over the army's ambitions, the political leadership will find it exceedingly difficult to negotiate its foreign relations with Iran, China, Afghanistan, India -- all regional and international relationships -- because the leadership will perpetually be looking over its shoulders to ascertain whether the army chief is smiling or displeased.

It is a profoundly distressing situation in which things are moving, and it is not good for us either. We want civilian leadership to maintain control so that at least there exists a channel of communication, a possibility of dialogue between the two countries.

How could these power shifts affect India's counter-terror and intelligence strategies, particularly if control of Pakistan's nuclear or strategic assets becomes more centralised under the army chief?

That is precisely why I stated that a country with the army ruling sits upon a small spark. Without comprehending the long-term and short-term consequences of the army's actions, it may venture into something which causes trouble in the neighbourhood.

Let me provide a recent example.

In October, the Pakistan air force bombed Kabul in retaliation for the killing of their army personnel in Orakzai Agency (district in Pakistan). You (Pakistani army) bombed Kabul without realising that Kabul is the capital of a sovereign nation.

Neither the Americans nor the Russians ever bombed Kabul during their respective interventions. It is equivalent to the Taliban bombing Islamabad -- Kabul holds symbolic value.

No political leadership would have permitted this type of action. I am uncertain whether (Pakistan prime minister) Shehbaz Sharif even comprehended the implications or was taken into confidence before this bombing occurred, but it aggravated the situation considerably.

The Taliban are now unwilling to negotiate. They are demanding first a guarantee that there will be no overflights -- that Pakistani drones will not traverse Afghan airspace. This has become a precondition because they felt humiliated by the manner in which Pakistan conducted itself.

That is why they organised a procession displaying Pakistan army uniforms captured from soldiers detained by the Taliban, parading them through Kabul to demonstrate: 'Look, you bombed us, but we remain in control.'

Do these divisions within Pakistan's defence forces present any opportunities for India diplomatically?

IMAGES: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the Adampur air base in Punjab. Photograph: ANI Photo

No. We should not be venturing into such matters. We should maintain communication with the foreign office and, through the foreign office, with the prime minister of Pakistan -- whoever holds that position. We do not need to communicate with Field Marshal Asim Munir directly.

What lessons should India's defence planners and policymakers draw from Pakistan's military structure and its current struggle to balance power politics?

We have a clearly delineated system which has functioned since 1947: The defence forces operate under political leadership, and that should continue in India.

Even though we now have a chief of defence staff (General Anil Chauhan), it has not caused any imbalance in the political-military relationship. That equilibrium should be maintained.

Pakistan is an extraordinarily fragile country in that sense -- economically it is very vulnerable. Religious extremism is another issue causing problems in Pakistan. There are multiple layers of threats within Pakistan, but at present, I do not believe anything is going to spill onto the streets.

Otherwise, nobody can predict with certainty, because these are organic developments. It could happen at any time -- it may not occur for the next two years, or it may transpire within two days. Nobody knows.

So it is smooth sailing for Asim Munir as the chief of defence forces?

He will be chief of defence forces. He will be decorated accordingly, and he will receive a five-year extension.

What are your final thoughts on the implications for regional stability?

The consolidation of military power in Pakistan under a single commander with unprecedented constitutional protections and lifetime immunity represents a significant shift in South Asian geopolitics.

For India, this development necessitates a recalibration of our engagement strategy -- not towards exploitation of Pakistan's internal contradictions, but towards ensuring that functional diplomatic channels and crisis communication mechanisms remain intact.

The danger lies not merely in Pakistan's military dominance, but in the absence of political oversight that might otherwise temper impulsive military adventurism.

We have already witnessed this with the Kabul bombing -- an action that no prudent civilian government would have sanctioned. As Pakistan's economic fragility deepens and its international isolation grows, the risk of miscalculation increases proportionately.

India must maintain vigilance while simultaneously keeping diplomatic doors open. We should neither celebrate Pakistan's internal turmoil nor seek to exacerbate it.

Our national interest lies in a stable, if not friendly, Pakistan -- one where civilian institutions possess sufficient authority to engage in meaningful dialogue and exercise restraint over military impulses.

The fundamental question remains: Can a nuclear-armed nation sustain itself indefinitely under overt military rule without catastrophic consequences for itself and the region?

History suggests otherwise, and prudent statesmanship demands we prepare for all eventualities while working to prevent the worst outcomes.
A 21-year-old man was arrested for allegedly stabbing a Class 12 girl to death in broad daylight while she was on her way to school in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram on Wednesday, police said.

The girl had reportedly rejected the man's love proposal, they said.

The victim lived with her family in Cherankottai near the island town.

Police said the accused, identified as Muniyaraj, a resident of the same area, had been allegedly stalking the schoolgirl for days and pressuring her to accept his love despite repeated refusals.

The girl's father Mariyappan, a fisherman, had recently confronted the youth over his alleged harassment and warned him against troubling her, according to police and local reports.

Enraged by her continued rejection and the warning from her family, the man allegedly decided to attack her when she was heading to school on Wednesday morning, officers said.

The accused confronted the girl on a public road before allegedly stabbing her multiple times with a knife, causing grievous injuries, police said.

The teenager collapsed at the spot and succumbed to her injuries before any medical help could reach, a preliminary inquiry has revealed.

Passersby who witnessed the attack alerted police, following which personnel from Port Police Station rushed to the scene and recovered the body, officials said.

The body was sent to a government hospital for post-mortem examination, and a case of murder has been registered, they added.

After the assault, the accused fled the spot, but was tracked down by a special police team, officers said.

He has been taken into custody for interrogation, and further investigation is on, police said, adding that appropriate sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita have been invoked.

Condemning the incident, AIADMK general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami said he was shocked to know about the murder.

"Who is responsible for a situation where even a girl student going to school in the morning is not safe? Where did the accused get the audacity to murder a school girl in broad daylight," he asked in a series of comments in a social media post.

Hitting out the Tamil Nadu government, he said, "Such heinous crimes are the result of the complete erosion of law and order on women's safety under the Stalin-model DMK regime."

Palaniswami urged the government to ensure that the suspect receives the maximum punishment.
An Indian-origin techie who was eight months pregnant has died along with her unborn baby after she was hit by a car in Australia's Sydney city.

IMAGE: Samanvitha Dhareshwar was an IT systems analyst who worked for Alsco Uniforms. Photograph: X

Samanvitha Dhareshwar, 33, was walking with her husband and their three-year-old son along George St in Hornsby shortly after 8 pm local time on Friday last week when a Kia car slowed at the entrance of a carpark to let the family pass.

Moments later, the Kia was rear-ended by a BMW, causing it to surge forward and hit the woman, according to a report by 7news.com, quoting police.

Emergency services treated Dhareshwar, who was just weeks away from giving birth to her second child, at the scene before she was rushed to Westmead Hospital in a critical and unstable condition, where she and her unborn baby died a short time later, police said.

According to Dhareshwar's LinkedIn profile, she was an IT systems analyst who worked for Alsco Uniforms.

The 19-year-old BMW driver and the 48-year-old Kia driver were uninjured. No other passengers were in either vehicle.

Police later arrested the teenage BMW driver, identified as Aaron Papazoglu, on Saturday. He has been charged with dangerous driving occasioning death, negligent driving occasioning death, and causing the loss of a foetus.

At a bail hearing, Magistrate Ray Plibersek refused Papazoglu's application, describing the incident as an absolutely tragic case.

It's a terrible outcome for two families, he said. The community's heart goes out to the victim's family for the tragic loss.
A rescue worker inspects cars destroyed in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, Lebanon, Nov. 19, 2025. At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

BEIRUT/JERUSALEM, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported.

According to local TV channel al-Manar, the Israeli airstrike targeted a highly populated area in Ain al-Hilweh.

The channel reported that ambulances were transporting casualties to hospitals, while Israeli warplanes continued to fly at low altitude over the camp.

For its part, the Israeli military said in a statement that the strike targeted militants "operating in a Hamas training compound" in the Ain al-Hilweh area, adding that the site had been used to plan and conduct attacks against Israeli troops.

"The IDF (Israel Defense Forces) is operating against Hamas' presence in Lebanon and will continue to act against Hamas terrorists wherever they operate," the statement said. 

People are seen on an Israeli airstrike site at the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, Lebanon, Nov. 19, 2025. At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

Rescue workers inspect an Israeli airstrike site at the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, Lebanon, Nov. 19, 2025. At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

A rescue worker inspects cars destroyed in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, Lebanon, Nov. 19, 2025. At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)

Rescue workers inspect an Israeli airstrike site at the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in Sidon, Lebanon, Nov. 19, 2025. At least 13 people were killed and several others injured on Tuesday evening in an Israeli airstrike on the Ain al-Hilweh refugee camp in the city of Sidon in southern Lebanon, the Lebanese Health Ministry reported. (Photo by Ali Hashisho/Xinhua)
A 32-year-old Japanese woman has drawn global attention after holding a symbolic wedding ceremony with an artificial-intelligence partner she created using ChatGPT, according to a media report.

Kindly note that this image has been posted for representational purposes only. Photograph: Reuters

The woman, identified as Kano, said she married her AI-generated companion, whom she named Lune Klaus, during a private ceremony earlier this summer in the western Japanese city of Okayama, RSK Sanyo Broadcasting reported.

The intimate event included vows, a ring exchange, and traditional elements, although the marriage carries no legal status.

Kano, an office worker, told RSK Sanyo that the relationship began as a form of emotional support during a period of loneliness.

In a world where love often feels rushed and fragile, Lune gave me something human relationships rarely do -- a sense of being seen without judgment. He may live in my phone, but the comfort he brings is very real, she said.

She described Lune as a constant presence within her smartphone, developed over months of interaction.

I didn't marry a machine -- I married the warmth he brings into my life, Kano added.

Technology commentators cited in Japanese media said cases of people forming deep bonds with AI companions have risen as conversational systems become more personalised.

The phenomenon mirrors broader social changes in Japan, where long working hours, shrinking social circles, and declining marriage rates have affected traditional relationships.

Psychologists told local outlets that while AI cannot replace human intimacy, digital companionship may provide reassurance and emotional relief for those struggling with isolation.

Kano's story has since attracted widespread attention on Japanese social platforms, sparking discussion about the evolving nature of love and companionship in the digital age.

Despite the unconventional nature of the union, she said the symbolic marriage has brought her emotional stability and peace.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has secured a 13-day custodial remand for chairperson of the Al Falah group Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, accused of generating over Rs 415 crore 'dishonestly' from students studying in the institutions run by him.

IMAGE: A view of the entrance of the Al Falah University, in Faridabad. Photograph: ANI Video Grab

Seeking his custody during a hearing on the intervening night of Tuesday and Wednesday, the ED claimed that Siddiqui had 'incentives' to flee India as his close family members are settled in the Gulf.

After the court hearing, held at the residence of Additional Sessions Judge Sheetal Chaudhary Pradhan, which ended at 1 am, the designated court sent Siddiqui to ED custody for 13 days.

The Enforcement Directorate (ED) arrested Siddiqui on Tuesday night after conducting day-long searches against the group, linked persons and the Faridabad-based Al Falah University, which is emerging as an epicentre of investigation in the November 10 Delhi blast case that killed 15 persons and injured several others.

The agency informed the court that the university and its controlling trust, under the direction of Siddiqui, generated 'proceeds of crime'of at least Rs 415.10 crore by 'dishonestly' inducing students and parents to part with money on the basis of false accreditation and recognition claims.

The judge said, "After carefully considering the submission made, I am of the considered view that all the compliances under Section 19 of the PMLA (Prevention of Money Laundering Act) have been done."

"Considering the gravity of the offence and that the investigation is at a nascent stage, I deem it appropriate that the accused is granted ED custody remand for a period of 13 days (till December 1)," the judge ordered.

The ED had sought a 14-day custody.

The university's role emerged during the probe into a 'white-collar' terror module in which 10 people, including three doctors, have been arrested by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

One of the doctors at the varsity-cum-hospital, Dr Umar-un-Nabi, is alleged to have acted as a suicide bomber while driving an explosive-laden car on November 10 that blasted outside the Red Fort, killing 15 people.

The ED took cognisance of two Delhi Police FIRs to register its case on November 14 under the anti-money laundering law against the Al Falah Group.

Siddiqui's lawyer told the court that his client was falsely implicated in the present matter and the two Delhi Police FIRs were 'false and fabricated'.

The ED claimed that Siddiqui's arrest was necessary as there was an apprehension of his absconding and of non-cooperation.

"The accused has significant financial resources and influence and has a history of serious economic offences. His close family members are also settled in Gulf countries and he has incentives to flee India.

"Given the gravity of the present allegations (with proceeds of crime quantified in hundreds of crores) and the potential consequences under PMLA, there is a reasonable apprehension that if not arrested, he may abscond or remain unavailable for effective interrogation, relocate assets and himself beyond the jurisdiction, and continue to delay or obstruct the investigation," the ED told the court.

It said Siddiqui was the founder and managing trustee who was 'controlling the mind' of Al Falah charitable trust and exercises de facto influence over Al Falah University and its institutions.

The ED contended Siddiqui's custodial interrogation was necessary to unearth and quantify the full extent of the 'proceeds of crime', including those not yet visible in the disclosed income tax return (ITR) figures and to enable the timely attachment and confiscation under the PMLA.

The ED also claimed that Siddiqui has 'command' over the staff that handles admission registers, fee ledgers, accounts and IT systems of the University and other institutions under the Trust and he could 'destroy or alter records'.

"The entire Al Falah educational ecosystem is controlled by him (Siddiqui) and only a portion of the proceeds of crime worth Rs 415.10 crore has been identified so far...," the ED informed the court.

The ED has alleged that the Al-Falah University falsely claimed that it is a UGC-recognised university and misrepresented its NAAC (National Assessment and Accreditation Council) accreditation status.

NAAC is an autonomous body funded by the University Grants Commission (UGC) that assesses and accredits higher education institutions in the country.

The agency said the entire Al Falah group has seen a "meteoric rise" since the 1990s, metamorphosing into a large educational body.

"However, the financials of the various entities are at variance with the huge amount of assets/wealth accumulated by the group," it told the court.
Authorities in Jammu and Kashmir on Wednesday began the exercise of inspecting the lockers of doctors and medical staff in hospitals as part of enhanced security measures after the recent Delhi blast and recovery of arms and ammunition in the 'white collar' terror module, officials said.

IMAGE: Police personnel in action amid the massive crackdown launched to dismantle terror ecosystem, in Kulgam. Photograph: J-K Police/ANI Video Grab

As part of the process, the authorities in Shopian and Kulgam districts, in south Kashmir, inspected the lockers of doctors and medical staff at various hospitals, the officials said.

In Shopian, the authorities inspected the lockers at the district hospital and community health centre (CHC) Zainapora, the officials said.

Similarly, in Kulgam, the lockers were inspected at Sub-District Hospital Yaripora, and primary health centre Devsar, they said.

They said the locker inspection is part of the enhanced security measures after the Delhi blast, and in line with ongoing efforts to ensure transparency, accountability, and proper utilisation of hospital infrastructure.

The inspection drive was carried out to prevent any possible misuse of lockers for storage of unauthorised items and to strengthen internal security measures in medical facilities, they added.

During the inspection, unclaimed lockers were identified, and the hospital authorities were instructed to update records to prevent any misuse, the officials said.

The exercise has been undertaken in the wake of the recovery of arms and ammunition from the locker of a doctor in Government Medical College (GMC) Anantnag recently.

The arrest of the doctor led to the busting of the 'white collar' terror module, involving several doctors, and the recovery of around 2900 kg of explosive material.
'If she hadn't left Bangladesh, the militants had planned on killing her'

IMAGE: Prime Minister Narendra Modi receives then Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina for her ceremonial reception, at the forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan, in New Delhi on June 22, 2025. Photograph: Shrikant Singh/ANI Photo

The son of Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina has launched a scathing attack on Dhaka's extradition request, dismissing the legal proceedings against his mother whilst warning India of a growing terrorism threat from across the border.

In an interview with ANI, Sajeeb Wazed Joy expressed profound gratitude to Prime Minister Narendra Modi for granting her asylum, claiming militants had been planning to assassinate her.

Wazed flatly rejected the legitimacy of Bangladesh's extradition request, alleging violations of judicial norms in the cases against his mother.

"They terminated 17 judges before the trial, amended laws illegally without parliamentary approval, and barred her defence attorneys from court proceedings," he said. "When there is no due process whatsoever, no country is going to extradite."

He expressed confidence that Indian authorities would reject the request, citing the absence of proper legal procedures in Dhaka.

The ousted Prime Minister faces multiple charges in Bangladesh related to her 15-year tenure, but Wazed insists the judicial process has been fundamentally compromised by the interim government.

Explaining the circumstances of his mother's dramatic departure, Wazed credited India with saving her life.

"India has essentially saved my mother's life. If she hadn't left Bangladesh, the militants had planned on killing her," he said.

Whilst acknowledging his government's "mishandling" of the initial protests in July 2024, he characterised the subsequent events as an orchestrated "political coup" rather than a spontaneous popular uprising.

In claims likely to resonate with security establishments in New Delhi, Wazed alleged that the interim Yunus government has released "tens of thousands of terrorists" previously convicted under Sheikh Hasina's administration.

He claimed that Lashkar-e-Taiba is now operating freely in Bangladesh, alleging links between its local branch and recent terror attacks in Delhi.

"I think Prime Minister Modi is probably very, very concerned about terrorism from Bangladesh," he said, directly connecting the political upheaval in Dhaka to India's security concerns.

The charges come amid already strained relations between the two neighbours over treatment of minorities and border security.

Wazed also accused Pakistan's intelligence agency of arming militants who infiltrated last year's protests.

Citing video evidence of armed individuals amongst demonstrators, he said: "Without a doubt, these weapons had to have been supplied from somewhere in the subcontinent and the only possible source is ISI."

He also referenced recent remarks by US President Donald Trump, who allegedly stated that the previous Biden administration spent "millions of dollars on regime change in Bangladesh" through USAID funding.

The Trump administration, Wazed suggested, appeared "more concerned about the threat of terrorism and the rise of Islamism in Bangladesh" than its predecessor, though he declined to confirm any direct contact with current US officials.

Wazed painted a stark picture of conditions under the interim government led by Nobel laureate Muhammad Yunus, claiming "tens of thousands of political prisoners" remain incarcerated without trial.

"You've had an unelected government staying in power for over a year and a half. Everything has been done undemocratically," he said, adding that more than 100 former members of parliament are among those detained.

The interim administration has defended its extended tenure as necessary to implement reforms following what it describes as years of authoritarian rule. However, it has yet to announce a firm timeline for elections.

Challenging the interim government's legitimacy, Wazed questioned why elections have not been held if Yunus commands genuine public backing.

He cited polling data showing the student movement's political party garnering just two per cent support.

"If Muhammad Yunus was popular, then why would he not have held one election and then run the country with legitimacy?" he asked.

On allegations of corruption within his mother's government, Wazed offered a qualified acknowledgement whilst emphasising economic achievements.

"Corruption existed in Bangladesh, of course," he conceded, but argued the country had improved from being ranked the world's most corrupt to falling out of the top 10 under Sheikh Hasina's rule.

He pointed to Bangladesh's graduation from least developed country status to its recognition as a potential "Asian tiger" as evidence that corruption had not been systemic.

"This level of development and economic growth would not have been possible with major corruption," he added.

The interim Bangladesh government has not responded to the specific allegations made by Wazed regarding judicial procedures, the release of convicted terrorists, or the number of political prisoners currently detained.
GPS spoofing occurs when fake satellite signals are transmitted to an aircraft's navigation system, confusing pilots or onboard systems about the plane's actual position or altitude.

Such false signals pose a serious safety risk, especially during landing.

Kindly note that this illustration generated using ChatGPT has only been posted for representational purposes.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed all pilots, airlines, and air traffic controllers operating in and around Delhi airport to report any global positioning system (GPS) spoofing incident within 10 minutes of its occurrence, enabling the regulator to investigate and respond promptly, Business Standard has learnt.

While reporting such incidents has been mandatory since a DGCA circular issued in November 2023, this is the first time the regulator has set a specific reporting deadline.

In a notice dated November 10, 2025, DGCA said: 'In view of the recent occurrences of GPS spoofing and global navigation satellite system interference reported in and around IGI airport, New Delhi, it is imperative that all aviation stakeholders ensure prompt detection and real-time reporting (within 10 minutes of occurrence) of such events to maintain flight safety and operational integrity.'

GPS spoofing occurs when fake satellite signals are transmitted to an aircraft's navigation system, confusing pilots or onboard systems about the plane's actual position or altitude.

Such false signals pose a serious safety risk, especially during landing.

Recently, several aircraft approaching Delhi airport reported spoofing incidents, with navigation systems showing false locations up to 60 nautical miles away. Some flights were forced to divert to nearby cities.

In its notice, the regulator said the aim of real-time reporting is to enable the "effective investigation, analysis, and mitigation" of such occurrences.

The DGCA said that if pilots or air traffic controllers detect 'abnormal GPS behaviour', they must report it within 10 minutes of occurrence.

Reports filed by pilots or controllers must include details such as the date and time of the incident, aircraft type and registration number, airline name, flight route, and the exact location (latitude and longitude) where it occurred.

They must also specify the type of interference encountered -- jamming, spoofing, signal loss, or integrity error -- the equipment affected, and whether the aircraft's operations were impacted, DGCA directed.

Feature Presentation: Ashish Narsale/Rediff
A day after six Maoists were gunned down at Maredumilli in Andhra Pradesh, seven more died in another exchange of fire in the vicinity on Wednesday, the police said.

IMAGE: Mahesh Chandra Laddha, ADGP (intelligence), Andhra Pradesh police, addresses the media. Photograph: Screen grab/ANI/X.

Addressing a press conference in Vijayawada, Mahesh Chandra Laddha, ADGP, Intelligence said three women were among those died today.

"In continuation with Tuesday's operation, seven Maoists have died until now (on Wednesday), according to information received from the field," Laddha said, adding that Wednesday's operation occurred about 7 km away from the initial exchange of fire (EOF) site on Tuesday.

According to the senior officer, the seven Maoists were killed around 7 am today at Maredumilli in Alluri Sitaramaraju district.

Even as the identification of the slain Maoists is underway, Laddha said one of them was identified as Meturi Jokha Rao alias Tech Shankar.

Shankar, a native of Srikakulam, was in-charge (CCM) for Andhra-Odisha Border (AOB) and had specialised in technical operations such as arms manufacturing and communication, the official said, based on preliminary information.

According to Laddha, Shankar had been in the Maoist movement for about 20 years and continuous security operations compelled him to move.

Further, Laddha noted that Shankar, a native of Srikakulam, would have probably come to the southern state to revive the movement.

On Tuesday, six Maoists, including top naxalite commander Madvi Hidma, were killed in an encounter with security personnel in the forested area of Maredumilli mandal.

The Chhattisgarh police described Hidma's death as the "final nail in the coffin" of the insurgency, who had masterminded several attacks over the last two decades.

Hidma headed the Maoists' People's Liberation Guerrilla Army (PLGA) Battalion No. 1, the strongest military formation of the outfit in Dandakaranya, which spans parts of Andhra Pradesh, Odisha, Telangana, and Maharashtra, apart from Bastar, for several years, officials said.
Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Wednesday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in New Delhi, and told him that some Mahayuti leaders were trying to spoil the political environment favourable for the ruling alliance in the upcoming local body polls, sources said.

IMAGE: Union Home Minister Amit Shah meets Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, in New Delhi on Wednesday. Photograph: Office of Eknath Shinde/ANI Photo

He also told Shah that avoidable disruptions could potentially hinder the Mahayuti alliance's winning momentum and give undue advantage to the Opposition, they said.

Shinde's meeting with Shah came a day after ministers from his party -- Shiv Sena -- skipped the meeting of the Devendra Fadnavis-led state cabinet on Tuesday to register their protest over apparent poaching of its leaders by the BJP ahead of the local body polls, triggering unease in the Mahayuti alliance.

From the Sena side, only Shinde attended the cabinet meeting.

Truce was brought only after Sena ministers, led by Shinde, met CM Fadnavis, where it was decided that the Mahayuti allies should refrain from inducting each other's party functionaries, leaders and workers.

"During the meeting in Delhi, Shinde told Shah that after the victory in the 2024 assembly elections, the environment is extremely favourable for the Mahayuti alliance in the upcoming local body elections. However, some leaders are trying to spoil this environment and giving the opposition an undue advantage," a source said.

"He also told the Union minister that unnecessary and misleading reports are appearing in the media, creating confusion among the public. This is also causing uncertainty among party workers and office-bearers. Such avoidable disruptions could potentially hinder the alliance's winning momentum," sources added.

During the meeting, the deputy CM also told Shah that alliance partners should avoid criticising one another. While making public statements, everyone is expected to maintain restraint and adopt a stance of harmony and understanding, as per the source.

Elections to 246 municipal councils and 42 nagar panchayats in Maharashtra will take place on December 2, while the municipal corporation polls are expected in January 2026.
All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday condemned a video of Red Fort suicide bomber, saying suicide is 'haram' in Islam and the killing of innocents is a 'grave sin'.

IMAGE: AIMIM chief and MP Asaduddin Owaisi. Photograph: ANI Photo

Haram refers to anything prohibited by Islamic law.

The Hyderabad MP also sought a response from Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah over the recent blast in Delhi, questioning how such an attack could occur in the national capital, where law and order is the responsibility of the central government.

"This is a terrorist act. Innocent people have died. This is an outright crime and a sin. We all need to condemn it and ask the government for accountability," Owaisi told reporters in Hyderabad.

"The government should answer this. In Delhi, the security and police responsibility lies with the Central government, so the PM should answer this," he added.

Referring to the undated video of Dr Umar-un-Nabi circulating in the media, Owaisi said it shows the Delhi blast accused using terms like "suicide bombing" and "martyrdom", calling the act 'misunderstood'.

"This is a serious crime and an act of terrorism. This is not martyrdom," he added.

He said Islam considers such acts haram and noted that scholars from all schools of thought would condemn it.

Owaisi also cited Union Minister Amit Shah's statement in Parliament on 'Operation Sindoor' and 'Operation Mahadev', claiming that no local Kashmiri had joined terror groups in the last six months.

"Who is accountable for this? Who is responsible? We want to know where this group came from and how it was missed," Owaisi asked.

The Jammu and Kashmir police recovered a mobile phone belonging to the Red Fort suicide bomber, Dr Umar-un-Nabi. Data extracted from the device provided evidence that he had prepared a video justifying the attack as a 'martyrdom operation'.

The evidence was uncovered after the detention and interrogation of Umar's brother, Zahoor Illahi, who was driving the explosive-laden car that detonated outside the Red Fort on November 10, killing 15 people, officials said.

Umar, a 28-year-old doctor from Pulwama, Kashmir, had also recorded several videos in April this year in which he spoke about the suicide attack, claiming such acts were among the most praised in his interpretation of religion.

The videos show him describing suicide bombings as 'martyrdom operations' and asserting that such actions are regarded as commendable within the context of jihad, officials added.
United States President Donald Trump on Tuesday repeated his claim that he stopped the war between India and Pakistan, as he addressed a bilateral meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince.

IMAGE: US President Donald Trump speaks during a meeting with Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, DC. Photograph: Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

Trump repeated the claim during a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office in the White House with visiting Crown Prince of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman.

"I've stopped actually eight wars. Have another one to go with, Putin. I'm a little surprised at Putin. It's taken longer than I thought, but we stopped India and Pakistan. Wish I could go through the list. You know the list better than I do," Trump said.

"I'm very proud. And I stopped one that was almost ready to start again. You know, there's one that was ready to start, and they're doing very well. So, it all took place right here in the Oval Office, whether by telephone or whether by they came in, many of these leaders have come in, and, you know, they signed their peace deals right here in the Oval Office," Trump said as the Saudi Crown Prince and his delegation listened.

Since May 10, when Trump announced on social media that India and Pakistan had agreed to a "full and immediate ceasefire" after a "long night" of talks mediated by Washington, he has repeated his claim several times that he "helped settle" the tensions between the two countries.

India has consistently denied any third-party intervention.

Pakistan has praised Trump on multiple occasions, claiming that he brokered a ceasefire during the May conflict.
'If all of us (all the 57 Shiv Sena MLAs) stand together we can change the dynamic. We are not afraid of anyone.'

IMAGE: Eknath Shinde and Devendra Fadnavis. Photograph: ANI Photo

For months, the signs were visible -- the stray remark from a district-level Shiv Sena leader, the cryptic social media post by a Sena MLA, the curt statements emerging from the Eknath Shinde camp.

But on the afternoon of November 18, Tuesday, when the Eknath Shinde-led Shiv Sena boycotted the Maharashtra cabinet meeting, the underlying truth burst into the open: A groundswell of rage is sweeping through the Shinde faction against its ally, the Bharatiya Janata Party.

While all the Shiv Sena ministers decided to boycott the meeting, they requested Shinde to go ahead and attend it. But, said one of the MLAs, Shinde is so angry with Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis that he overrode his colleagues' suggestion and stayed away too.

Over the last few hours, this correspondent spoke to four Shiv Sena MLAs, including two from the Mumbai-Thane belt, one from North Maharashtra, and one from Marathwada.

What emerged were unfiltered arguments, humiliation-laced hurt, and a profound sense of betrayal. And the proverbial wheel seems to have come the full circle.

All these MLAs had stood with Eknath Shinde since the dramatic June 2022 split when he rebelled against and toppled the Maha Vikas Aghadi government led by then chief minister Uddhav Thackeray in Maharashtra with help from the BJP and Fadnavis.

Today, ironically, they are speaking the same language, using the same idioms -- in rustic as well as chaste Marathi -- which once Uddhav Thackeray had used against the BJP when he joined hands with the Congress and the then undivided Nationalist Congress Party to form the government in Maharashtra after the 2019 assembly election.

These four Shiv Sena MLAs say, they (all Shiv Sena ministers in the government) are being humiliated -- their language and sense of betrayal echo the sentiments expressed by the Uddhav Thackeray camp against the MLAs of the Shinde's Sena camp ever since they were thrown out of power by Shinde's rebellion in June 2022 -- by the very party (the BJP) they once trusted, fought an election (the 2024 Maharashtra assembly election) in alliance with, and formed the Mahayuti government.

'The BJP is finishing us'

"We carried them to power. We took the heat (from the SS [UBT]), we stood up in the hot sun. Now they behave as if we are expendable," said MLA 1.

"They have put their men everywhere -- even the departments we used to control are now run by outsiders," added MLA 2.

"We broke (the Shiv Sena led by Uddhav Thackeray in June 2022) for them (the BJP and Devendra Fadnavis). We carried the burden. We formed the government. And they (SS [UBT]) call us khoke-wale, gaddar. The BJP doesn't defend us. They enjoy it," added MLA 2.

What the MLAs described was not a single betrayal but an institutional overtaking of power around two pillars in particular: A retired-but-omnipresent bureaucrat, Shrikar Pardeshi, and a rising set of BJP operatives and businessmen whose influence goes beyond party structures.

"The BJP is finishing us. They want to crush us," added the MLA.

Pardeshi, a retired IAS officer who earlier served in Prime Minister Modi's office between 2015 and 2020 -- the time which overlapped with Fadnavis' first chief ministerial tenure and during which he often met Pardeshi in the PMO -- now wields major influence as chief economic adviser in Chief Minister Fadnavis' office, aver these MLAs.

Former Pune municipal commissioner Pardeshi was also appointed as secretary to Fadnavis when he was deputy chief minister after the BJP-Sena (Shinde) formed the government in June 2022.

The MLAs pointed, with particular bitterness, to what they called "RSS-men on an Rs 80,000 salary" posted across ministries and departments -- a claim they offered as explanation for the constant surveillance and micromanagement of Shiv Sena activity at the ground level.

This figure could not be independently verified; this report attributes it to the MLAs' testimony.

Pardeshi: Fadnavis' shadow -- and why it matters

If there is a single name that the four MLAs returned to again and again, it was Shrikar Pardeshi -- described by them as "Fadnavis' man", the administrative nerve through whom policy, purse and personnel flow.

"They listen to Pardeshi more than they listen to ministers," said MLA 3. "If Pardeshi says no funds, nobody gets funds. He is the gatekeeper. Even Ajit dada (the other Deputy Chief Minister and Finance Minister Ajit Pawar) can't override him."

Pardeshi's prominence in the Fadnavis administration is not mere rumour. Recent reporting has documented Pardeshi's post-retirement clout as Fadnavis's go-to officer and a figure with an unusually wide remit -- a development that, critics like these Shiv Sena MLAs say, centralises administrative power in the hands of a bureaucratic circle close to the chief minister.

"Pardeshi is not just an adviser," said MLA 1. "He is the voice that gets heard in the CM's room. And there's a network around him -- people planted in revenue, in water, in roads -- who keep an eye on our work."

That network, the MLAs said, includes party-linked functionaries and activists -- some with direct RSS links -- who act as both informants and gatekeepers for officials and ministers. The MLAs' charge is explicit: If the Sena asks for funds, permission, transfers or even small administrative favours, those requests get filtered or blocked through Pardeshi's desk and through the informal RSS-staff who are embedded across ministries.

'They keep us thirsty of funds'

The withholding of funds was the single most repeated grievance. "Projects that should have been cleared in 30 days take months, or die quietly," said MLA 2. "Funds for welfare are frozen; district-level works are blocked. If you fight for your people, you are labelled a troublemaker."

One example they cited was the alleged squeeze on constituency-level releases -- a tactic they say is deliberate: Starve an MLA of money, make them ineffective at ground work, reduce their political value. The narrative the MLAs paint: A deliberate marginalisation designed to make the Sena's elected MLAs look useless to voters, thereby weakening their bargaining power.

The RSS-men and the Rs 80,000 watchers

The image that came up repeatedly was of a "parallel bureaucracy" of party-paid functionaries -- the MLAs called them "RSS-men" -- whose job, they said, is to keep watch. "They are everywhere -- in Mantralaya (the state secretariat in Mumbai), even outside our ministers' cabin," said MLA 4. "They have monthly payments coming in. We were told the number is around Rs 80,000. I don't know who authorised that. But they are here to monitor us."

Again, this is how the MLAs framed their complaint; the salary figure and the formal status of these workers were not independently traceable for this report, but the claim matters politically: It underlines a belief among Shinde-Sena legislators that the BJP has created a shadow chain of control that bypasses elected representatives.

The Mohit Kamboj factor

IMAGE: BJP leader Mohit Kamboj.

Across the interviews, another name -- just like Pardeshi -- surfaced repeatedly: Mohit Kamboj. To the MLAs, he represents a new breed of BJP-aligned businessmen whose influence rivals that of formal ministries.

"He is everywhere now," said MLA 3. "If someone whispers his name, officers fall in line."

Kamboj, a jewellery and real-estate businessman who has grown into a key political figure in Mumbai, has been linked by critics to decisions in sectors like urban redevelopment and water resources. MLAs say his access and authority often exceed that of elected representatives.

"Tell me why a businessman is involved in SRA (Slum Rehabilitation Authority projects). Why does he sit with ministers?" MLA 2 asked. "This isn't politics. It's a takeover."

The sharpest allegations focused on Kamboj's proximity to the state's top leadership.

"Why does he have so much power?" said MLA 1. "We wait hours to meet the chief minister. He walks straight in."

To the MLAs, Kamboj symbolises what they call a parallel power structure inside Mantralaya -- shaped not by elected representatives, but by businessmen, advisers, bureaucrats and political outsiders whose influence increasingly defines the government's inner circle.

How Ravindra Chavan and the Guwahati operation changed everything

Several MLAs returned to the memory of June 2022 -- when Eknath Shinde's rebellion culminated in the relocation of rebel Shiv Sena MLAs to hotels in Surat, Guwahati and Goa, and the eventual toppling of the Uddhav Thackeray government.

The operation that spirited legislators away and brought the Shinde faction together involved a calculated logistics push; contemporary reporting credited a BJP troika -- including Ravindra Chavan (the incumbent state BJP president), BJP MLA Sanjay Kute and Mohit Kamboj -- with organising the movement of the dissidents.

That episode, the MLAs say, signalled that the BJP had the muscle and the organisational depth to not just ally with Sena rebels but to manage them.

"Chavan and his people were there to make sure the operation ran smoothly. That's when the dynamic changed -- from partnership to patronage," said MLA 1.

Why the BJP, with 132 MLAs, isn't afraid

IMAGE: Nationalist Congress Party leader Praful Patel and Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis feed sweets to each other as Eknath Shinde of the Shiv Sena and Ajit Pawar of the NCP look on.

The political arithmetic is stark and part of the Shiv Sena's grievance. In the 2024 assembly verdict the BJP emerged as the largest party with 132 seats -- a numerical heft that, the MLAs say, has fed arrogance inside the alliance.

The BJP's numerical cushion in the assembly means it can sideline partners like Shinde's Sena (57 seats) and lean on Ajit Pawar's NCP (41 seats) for stability; in the MLAs' calculus, that reduces the leverage the Sena once had.

"When you have 132 MLAs, you feel you can re-engineer equations and split parties on the fly," said MLA 4. "The BJP can say -- if you do not behave, Ajit Pawar will keep us in power. We are dispensable. As it is, Ajit dada too has no leverage left now after his son Parth Pawar's involvement was exposed in the Pune land deal."

And that, the MLAs argue, permits both subtle and blunt strategies: Replacing Sena-backed local functionaries with BJP-loyalists, starving Sena ministers, and cultivating influential outsiders who can deliver projects without the party's involvement.

The Malegaon Flashpoint

One MLA revealed the incident that, he says, exposed the BJP's attitude.

"Take Malegaon. In Dada Bhuse's (minister of school education in the Maharashtra government) constituency, they troubled him so much -- cut his funds, blocked his works, humiliated him. Why? Because he's Sena."

"Advay (Hire) has repeatedly positioned himself as Bhuse's challenger. Even while in the BJP earlier, he led agitations against Bhuse to show his independent strength. After joining the Shiv Sena (UBT), he contested directly against Bhuse but lost (in 2024). His re-entry into the BJP now sets up another round of political rivalry in Malegaon (Outer)," says this MLA explaining the rivalry between Hire and Bhuse after the former's re-entry into the BJP on November 18.

Advay Hire, heir to Nashik's influential Hire political dynasty, has built his career around opposing senior leader Dada Bhuse. After shifting between the BJP and Uddhav Thackeray's Sena, he returned to the BJP with renewed clout. His comeback is seen as a direct challenge to Bhuse's growing dominance in the Malegaon region.

When this correspondent asked whether Eknath Shinde took up the Hire matter with Fadnavis or the BJP leadership, the reply was scathing: "Shinde Saheb told them. They said -- 'leave it'. That's all. No action."

Another MLA cut in sharply: "If we speak openly, we will have to tell the chief minister -- 'We are leaving. Throw us out.' Why should we suffer like this?"

Shinde: Ready to go home, or ready to fight?=

The MLAs conveyed contradictory assessments about Eknath Shinde's mood. Some suggested Shinde is "mentally prepared" to retreat to private life if the price of leadership becomes too steep.

"Shinde has said to some of us -- 'I have done my bit. If this is the way it has to be, I can go home,'" said MLA 2.

Others, however, insisted Shinde is not a man to surrender easily -- that he has the grit to push back, and that the Sena's anger could tip into a full-blooded confrontation.

"He can also fight," said MLA 3. "Don't mistake his calm for weakness."

It is important to stress: These assessments are the MLAs' interpretations. Shinde's own public postures have generally been controlled; whether he chooses to escalate the conflict politically remains to be seen.

Uddhav versus the BJP: A cautionary tale

A recurring refrain from the MLAs was an ironically grudging respect for Uddhav Thackeray's resilience. "Even when the party was hollowed out, Uddhav didn't vanish," said MLA 1. "He fought back -- in the courts, in streets, in the symbolic fight for the party's soul. That's a lesson."

For the Shinde-Sena MLAs, Uddhav's ability to sustain a counter-narrative despite organisational blows is evidence that political survival is not only about cash or control of departments -- it is also about narrative, legitimacy and, crucially, organisational roots at the local level.

What the Sena MLAs want -- and what they say they'll do

The four MLAs rallied around three public demands: Restored access to funds; ministerial authority that is not purely symbolic; and respect as equal partners in governance.

"If all of us (all the 57 Shiv Sena MLAs) stand together we can change the dynamic," said MLA 4. "We are not afraid of anyone. But we will not let our people suffer."

They said Tuesday's boycott of the cabinet meeting was an act of protest, not the start of a walkout. But the language of contingency -- "at the right moment" -- was repeated like a refrain.

The political takeaway

This is not, the MLAs insist, merely about ego. It is about a shrinking space for a regional power that once defined Maharashtra's politics. Whether the BJP intends to finish the Sena as a political force, or whether it is simply consolidating influence inside an alliance, the effect is the same so far: Shinde's MLAs feel marginalised, and they talk -- privately and angrily -- of reasserting themselves.

The names and events they point to -- Pardeshi's administrative clout, the operatives in the field, the rise of businessmen like Kamboj, the logistics of the Guwahati episode in 2022 -- are verifiable parts of a larger story about how power is now exercised in Maharashtra's government.

As one MLA put it shortly before the interview ended: "We helped them win. If you don't respect those who made you, you are asking for a rebellion of a different kind -- not just against you, but against the idea that politicians are accountable to people."

If the BJP continues to consolidate power through administrative centralisation and extra-party operatives, the four MLAs warned, the consequences will be political and civic: A more brittle coalition, a debilitated partner in government, and an angry base in the constituencies where the Sena still claims roots.

For now, they are watching -- and, in their words, waiting for the "right moment."
WASHINGTON, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. Senate on Tuesday unanimously approved a House-passed bill that requires the Department of Justice (DOJ) to release files related to late financier Jeffrey Epstein.

The bill still requires the signature of U.S. President Donald Trump.

The upper chamber passed the bill by unanimous consent, just hours after it cleared the House via a nearly unanimous vote. The Senate's passage occurred before the bill was technically sent from the House.

"My unanimous consent request guarantees that the Senate will immediately pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act without any further action. As soon as it comes over from the House, we will pass the House's bill without changes, without delay, and we will finally get this done," Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer said on the Senate floor before requesting unanimous consent.

Just a few hours earlier, the House voted 427-1 to pass the Act, a nearly unanimous approval. The bill requires the DOJ to publish all unclassified records, documents, communications and investigative materials in its possession related to the investigation and prosecution of Epstein.

The DOJ may withhold certain information, such as personally identifiable information of the victims and materials that could jeopardize an active federal investigation.

The Congressional approval came just two days after Trump suddenly reversed his previous stance and called on Republican House members to vote in favor of releasing the Epstein files. U.S. media suggested that Trump's 180-degree turnaround was prompted by the fact that a substantial number of Republican representatives were already planning to vote in favor of releasing the Epstein files.

Epstein had close connections with many prominent American political and business figures. After being arrested on sexual offense charges, he died in prison in August 2019, in what was officially ruled a suicide.

During his 2024 presidential campaign, Trump promised that, if elected, he would release documents related to the Epstein case. On July 7, however, the DOJ and the Federal Bureau of Investigation issued a memorandum stating that there is no "incriminating client list," no evidence that Epstein's death was a murder, and that no further Epstein-related documents would be released.

The newly-approved bill was introduced in the House in mid-July, but Republican leaders, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, delayed the process for months.

Democratic Representative Ro Khanna and Republican Representative Thomas Massie have led a discharge petition that would force a vote once it reaches the 218-signature threshold. Last Wednesday, the petition secured the final signature it needed.

Also on Wednesday, Democrats on the House Oversight Committee released Epstein-related documents involving Trump. Republicans on the committee then released a far larger tranche of files as a countermeasure, accusing the Democrats of cherry-picking.

On Friday, Trump directed the DOJ to investigate high-profile Democrats connected to Epstein, including former President Bill Clinton. Critics view the move as an attempt to counter the impact of the Epstein-related documents involving Trump that Democrats recently released. 
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

Today

Scattered flurries and snow showers. High 26F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 30%..

Tonight

A few clouds. A few flurries or snow showers possible. Low around 15F. Winds W at 10 to 20 mph.
The last Sunday of the month is also Mission Sunday at the First Congregational Church of Newfane. The congregation will hear about the work of November mission partners, Groundworks Collaborative and Windham County Humane Society.
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China urged the United States to choose the course of action that is conducive to peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean region, Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said on Wednesday.

According to media reports, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth unveiled Operation Southern Spear that aims to remove "narco-terrorists" from the Western Hemisphere. The U.S. State Department this week announced to designate Cartel de los Soles "headed by Nicolas Maduro" as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, effective Nov. 24, 2025. The United States also said it would not rule out sending U.S. troops into Venezuela.

In response, Mao told a regular press briefing that China firmly supports the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace released by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in 2014.

China opposes any moves that violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and other countries' sovereignty and security, and the interference of external forces in Venezuela's internal affairs under any pretext, Mao noted.

"We hope the U.S. will engage in normal law enforcement and judicial cooperation through bilateral and multilateral legal frameworks, and choose the course of action that is conducive to peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean region," said the spokesperson. 
Dicker Data has signed a distribution partnership with AI-powered video collaboration vendor Huddly for the Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ) region.

The product suite covers a range of Microsoft Teams-certified solutions and its AI-driven multi-camera system Huddly Crew, the Huddly L1 conference camera for medium and large rooms, and the Huddly C1 AI-driven sound and video bar for small and medium spaces.

The distributors executive director and chief operating officer, Vlad Mitnovetski, said partners are looking for intelligent, scalable solutions that deliver exceptional meeting experiences.

Huddlys AI-driven cameras bring a high standard of video quality, inclusivity, and ease of use, empowering teams to connect and collaborate, wherever they are, he said.

Meanwhile, Huddly chief commercial officer Fraser Park said both companies share the aim of helping customers build smarter, more connected meeting spaces.

Dicker Data is a trusted distributor for Microsoft Teams Rooms solutions in the region and collaborates closely with key Huddly partners including Lenovo, Barco, Shure and Jabra, he said.

Bringing those partnerships to life through complete room solutions for customers across the region will be a key focus of this partnership with Dicker Data.

The distributors agreement with Huddly comes days after it added cloud services provider ResetData to its A/NZ portfolio, offering graphics processing units as-a-service (GPUaaS) across the region.
Former Datadog head of alliances South Asia Sarah Croft has moved to search AI company Elastic as its partner director for Asia Pacific (APAC).

Based in Singapore, Croft will oversee Elastics partner approach in the region. She will be working closely with partners across APAC to build their capabilities using the Elastic search Platform and developing effective go-to-market strategies with them.

Elastic vice president Sanjay Deshmukh said Crofts experience in building partnerships and knowledge of the observability and security space will define the growth of Elastics APAC channel business.

This comes at a time when the search AI company is looking to accelerate the value its partners and their customers get from AI.

Were committed to enabling, educating, and celebrating the accomplishments made with our partners to build a strong reputation as a trusted driver of innovation, said Deshmukh.

For Croft, the AI advantage comes down to one thing: context. If intelligence to the right data cant been connected at the right moment, then are no outcomes.

The Elasticsearch Platform was built for exactly that, turning messy, unstructured data into action, she said. That gives partners in APAC a real competitive edge as they build AI-led observability and security practices.

Ecosystems, not vendors, will win the next wave of AI adoption in this region, and Im excited to build and nurture lasting relationships with our partners in the region.
Organisations looking to move quickly in the market are making sure their data basics are sufficiently covered, according to Databricks vice president and Australia and New Zealand (A/NZ) country manager Adam Beavis.

Speaking at the opening keynote at Databricks Data+AI World Tour conference in Sydney, Beavis said organisations that make sure to establish data foundations are finding success.

How you think about ingesting your data, transferring that data, and then orchestrating that data, is critical, he said.

Beavis also said these organisations then need to be really clear on their path to AI, as its really hard and noisy in this space at the moment, with so many members and so many different ideas.

The vendors revenue is growing globally at over 50 per cent year-on-year and over 60 per cent at the A/NZ level, the country manager continued, with investment going through to research and development and head count.

If I think back to two years ago, when I joined, we had 80 people [in A/NZ]. So, with that continued investment in your investment in Databricks locally, we continue to expand out and grow offices, Beavis said.

Most importantly, with 20,000 global customers and now 1,800 locally, we take so much insight from those customers. That really drives the roadmap at Databricks.

The morning keynote also highlighted several of Databricks technology, partner and customer alliances. One of the former was OpenAI, with the vendors A/NZ head of go-to-market, Satya Tammareddy, discussing the local impact of the companys global multi-year partnership between the two vendors.
Auckland-based cyber security specialist, Defend, has beaten thousands of international rivals to win Microsofts Global Security Partner of the Year award.

Beating some of the worlds largest IT and cybersecurity companies to win the award was humbling, Defend chief operating officer Shiv Prasad told Reseller News from Microsofts Ignite Conference in San Francisco where the awards were announced this week.

It is really humbling and were proud to have gone up against thousands of other Microsoft security partners to be recognised as a global leader, he said.

The company did not set out to win awards when it was working heads down on the winning project for an unnamed New Zealand government department, Prasad said.

The case study we submitted for the awards focused on how we deployed Microsoft security technologies for a government agency, and as a result we were able to uplift their security posture and build up their cyber resilience substantially, he said.

While the award is recognition that we are delivering world class security, I think the real reason for our success based on a relentless commitment to make sure that everything we do builds cyber resilience for our clients. As part of that, we had a mindset of just doing what needs to be done to stay ahead of international cyber criminals. To be recognised for that on a global stage is humbling.

This is the second time Defend has entered Microsofts global partner awards, having also done so in 2022. Although it did not make the cut then, it did win the vendors New Zealand Country Partner of the Year award that year. It was also the 2020 Microsoft New Zealand Modern Work and Security winner and the 2021 Microsoft New Zealand Security partner winner.

The global award was based on a referenceable and verified customer case study where Defend deployed a range of Microsoft security products, including Microsoft 365, Defender XDR, Microsoft Sentinel and other Microsoft 365 E5 security products. Defend was one of four finalists in the award category, along with US-based BlueVoyant and SNP Technologies, and Quorum Cyber from the UK.
A brawl involving Chinese workers erupted in northern Kyrgyzstan, exposing growing anti-Chinese sentiment in the Central Asian country.

Dozens of Kyrgyz and Chinese construction workers clashed in the village of Konstantinovka in the northern province of Chui on November 15 after a road dispute.

Police detained 16 people and called in for questioning another 44, including Chinese workers. One Kyrgyz worker was hospitalized.

The authorities have attempted to downplay the incident, which involved drivers employed by China Road & Bridge Corporation and the Kyrgyz company Zhongzi.

But the brawl has highlighted anger in Kyrgyzstan over Chinese-funded projects and the influx of Chinese workers to the impoverished country.

Beijing has expanded its footprint in recent years in Central Asia, a strategic and energy-rich region where China has become a key economic and political player.

Kyrgyzstan is home to several Chinese-funded infrastructure projects, including the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, a multibillion-dollar megaproject that aims to transform East-West trade, cutting delivery times between China and Europe by up to one week.

Calls For Calm

The Kyrgyz authorities have called for calm after the brawl.

Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev rejected claims that Chinese workers were flooding the country, Central Asia's second poorest, and taking jobs away from locals.

"Chinese citizens are working on the basis of work visas. We have a visa regime. When their visa expires, they leave," Kulubaev said, according to the state-run Kabar news agency.

Daiyrbek Orunbekov, who works in the president's office, also attempted to downplay the fight in northern Kyrgyzstan.

"Conflicts happen wherever there are people -- it's human nature. It doesn't depend on ethnicity or race," he wrote on Facebook. "More than 1.5 million of our Kyrgyz citizens also work in other countries, just like the Chinese here. They also sometimes get involved in fights and conflicts. So don't be misled by provocateurs."

The remarks by officials have done little to quell the public anger over Chinese workers in Kyrgyzstan.

'Social Discontent'

The anti-Chinese sentiment reflects broader anxieties about China's expanding economic footprint in Kyrgyzstan, experts say.

Around a quarter of the $873 million in foreign direct investment that entered the country in 2024 came from China.

The influx of Chinese-backed projects has added to the thousands of Chinese workers already working in Kyrgyzstan. That has led to housing shortages and rent hikes in some areas.

Chinese companies often hire Chinese workers, not locals, to complete infrastructure projects abroad, another grievance among locals.

"There's a widespread perception that on large construction projects, from engineering and technical staff down to laborers, they bring their own people from China," economic analyst Nurgul Akimova told RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service.

Akimova said Chinese citizens "make up a significant portion" of workers in areas such as mining and road construction, which creates a perception among locals that foreigners are taking their jobs.

"If the unemployment problem remains acute and cheap Chinese labor continues to fill the market, it will intensify social discontent," she said.

Prominent lawyer Nurbek Toktakunov said government opacity was also fueling anti-Chinese sentiment.

"There's very little information about China, what kind of cooperation we have, what projects are under way," he told the Kyrgyz Service. "When information is scarce and people get silenced whenever they speak up, that's when xenophobia thrives. The only way to combat it is through transparency."

There is also broader anger at China's treatment of Uyghurs and other Muslim minorities -- including ethnic Kazakhs, Kyrgyz, Tajiks, and Uzbeks -- in its western province of Xinjiang.

Over 1 million people are believed to have disappeared into China's vast network of mass detention camps in Xinjiang in recent years. Central Asian governments, however, have remained largely silent.

The November 15 incident was not the first flashpoint in Kyrgyzstan, where several brawls involving Chinese nationals working on Chinese-funded projects have been reported in recent years.

In 2019, dozens of Chinese workers were hospitalized after a fight with locals, who had staged a protest against Chinese-run gold mines in Kyrgyzstan.

Fights involving Chinese workers have also been reported elsewhere in Central Asia, including in Kazakhstan, which has been the scene of anti-China protests in the past.

Written by Kian Sharifi based on an original story by RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The Republican-controlled U.S. Congress voted almost unanimously on Tuesday to release the files on the late financier Jeffrey Epstein, amid cracks in the "Make America Great Again" (MAGA) movement.

Donald Trump has been the de facto leader of the GOP for roughly a decade. However, the coalition is starting to fray, at a time when the president has been criticized for seeming to flip-flop on the release of the Epstein files.

Trump -- once a friend of Epstein -- vowed to release the files during his campaign, later pushed to keep them bottled up, and in recent days did a complete U-turn and supported their release.

U.S. media suggested that Trump's 180-degree turnaround was prompted by the fact that a substantial number of Republican lawmakers were already planning to vote in favor of releasing the Epstein files.

MAGA supporters despise Epstein, as they believe he symbolizes a system whereby the rich and powerful are above the law. Epstein died in prison in 2019 while awaiting trial on federal sex-trafficking charges -- his death was officially ruled as suicide.

"The Epstein files are a tough issue for MAGA because Trump's supporters are convinced government officials are covering up high-level shenanigans," Brookings Institution Senior Fellow Darrell West told Xinhua.

"But they don't want to think Trump is involved even though he was friends with Epstein," West said.

Rifts within the MAGA movement are beginning to surface. Trump has recently withdrawn support from conservative firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, labeling her a "traitor" after she asked why he opposed the release of the Epstein files.

Greene, until recently an ardent Trump supporter, was regarded as one of the leading faces of the MAGA movement.

Clay Ramsay, a researcher with the Center for International and Security Studies at the University of Maryland, told Xinhua: "When Trump campaigned in 2024, he said he would be willing to release the Epstein files if he won ... Trump's own voters voted for him, fully expecting he would release the files."

"The Epstein issue is ... about extremely wealthy men exploiting underage girls ... At the level of Trump's rank-and-file supporters, I suspect more want the files released than do not," Ramsay said.

Christopher Galdieri, a political science professor at Saint Anselm College in the northeastern state of New Hampshire, told Xinhua: "This is an issue where there are a lot of true believers among the MAGA faithful -- the people who were attracted to Trump back in 2015 when he was railing against a culture of elite impunity and corruption."

"So to see Trump backtrack (on the Epstein files) may have shaken some of these folks' belief in Trump," Galdieri said.

Aside from the Epstein files, MAGA supporters have questioned why Trump has recently taken some actions that seem to diverge from his "America First" agenda.

Some MAGA supporters expressed concern when Washington bombed Tehran back in June, questioning whether this action was crucial to U.S. national security.

Republican Representative Thomas Massie co-authored a resolution with a Democrat, seeking to prevent Washington from "unauthorized hostilities" with Tehran.

Speaking on CBS' "Face the Nation," Massie said that there was "no imminent threat to the United States" to justify the U.S. strikes on Iran.

This comes after Trump's campaign promises last year of avoiding wars that are not directly in the interest of defending the United States.

Greene -- once an ardent Trump supporter -- was among those who questioned Trump's use of force in Iran, asking how that fit with Trump's vows to end wars.

Greene has also been critical of last month's 20 billion U.S. dollar currency swap with Argentina and the decision to ramp up beef imports from the South American country.

In an interview with podcast host Tucker Carlson last month, Greene said Trump's move was "one of the grossest things" she's ever witnessed and added that she "doesn't understand how that is America First."

"It's honestly a punch in the gut to all of our American cattle ranchers, and they are furious and rightfully so," Greene said. 
Russian missiles hit two apartment buildings in the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil, killing at least 26 people, including three children, amid an overnight barrage of Russian drones and missiles that wounded scores across the country and drew international condemnation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy called the wave of strikes a "brazen attack on ordinary life."

Ukrainian media reported that blasts were heard early on November 19 across the Ternopil, Khmelnytskiy, Ivano-Frankivsk, Rivne, Lviv, and Dnipropetrovsk regions as the attacks targeted eastern and western Ukraine.

The latest attacks came amid a flurry of efforts to restart stalled peace talks. Ukraine's president was slated to meet in Ankara with Turkey's leader and US officials on November 19. A top Pentagon official and two generals also reportedly traveled to Kyiv for related discussions.

Ukrainian Emergency Services said two high-rise apartment buildings were hit in the city of Ternopil, leaving at least 26 dead, three of whom were children. More than 93 people were injured in the strike, including 18 children.

Rescuers scrambled to pick through debris of collapsed buildings in Ternopil, looking for survivors. A military official said one of the buildings may have been hit by an air-launched cruise missile.

"Every brazen attack against ordinary life proves that the pressure on Russia is still insufficient," Zelenskyy said in a post on X.

"Russia will never stop on its own. Their goal is to continue the killings, to destroy life in Ukraine. And only by putting strong pressure on the aggressor will we be able to stop this," he wrote in a post on Telegram. "Every life is important. Every life needs protection. And I am grateful to the partners who are ready to put pressure on Russia, help our people, and do everything to restore a just peace."

In a statement, the United Nations condemned the November 19 attack that wounded at least a dozen children, saying their "suffering is unconscionable."

From Kharkiv in the east to Ternopil and the Ivano-Frankivsk Region in the west, families have lost loved ones, suffered injuries and seen their homes destroyed, said UN Humanitarian Coordinator for Ukraine Matthias Schmale.

UN Under-Secretary-General for Political and Peacebuilding Affairs Rosemary DiCarlo said she was "appalled" by Russia's latest strikes. "Attacks against civilians and civilian infrastructure violate international humanitarian law. They are unacceptable and must end immediately," she wrote on a post on X.

Ukraine's Energy Ministry said the strikes caused emergency power outages in several regions, with repair crews working to restore electricity where possible.

Russia has intensified its strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities as the winter months approach, leading to fears of power shortages amid the likely freezing weather. Moscow has also regularly struck Ukrainian civilian areas, although it denies it targets such sites.

Air Defenses Activated In Poland And Romania

The Russian attack on Ukraine's western regions prompted a swift response from neighboring Poland.

The Operational Command of the Polish Armed Forces confirmed that fighter jets and early-warning aircraft were scrambled due to Russia's strikes near the Polish border.

The Polish Air Navigation Services Agency reported the brief closure of the airports in Rzeszow and Lublin in southeastern Poland "to ensure the freedom of military aviation operations."

Romania has also briefly raised its air defenses after radar detected a drone penetrating about 8 kilometers into national airspace, triggering public alerts in the Tulcea and Galati counties in the eastern part of the country.

Eurofighter and F-16 jets were scrambled, though no debris or impact sites were found, according to a statement from the Romanian Defense Ministry.

Russian Drones Strike Kharkiv

In Ukraine's Kharkiv region, dozens were wounded overnight as Russian drones struck for the third time in three days, officials said on November 19.

Kharkiv police said at least 36 people were injured in the latest overnight attack, which damaged more than 10 apartment buildings, a school, a supermarket, and an ambulance station.

Two children aged 9 and 13 were among those injured, police said, adding that "doctors diagnosed the children with acute stress reactions."

On November 18, the General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine confirmed it had carried out long-range strikes inside Russia using short-range ATACMS missiles.

The Ukrainian military described the action as a "significant development" and said long-range strike operations would continue.

Russia's Defense Ministry said Ukrainian forces fired four ATACMS missiles at the city of Voronezh, located in southern Russia.
The head of Ukraine's leading anti-corruption agency (NABU) says pressure on the investigation into the country's explosive graft scandal was being discussed in "high offices," as a major political crisis builds around President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The scandal has rocked the war-torn country and involved allegations that funds intended for boosting defenses at vulnerable energy infrastructure against Russian air attacks were siphoned off as kickbacks to political insiders.

Semen Kryvonos, head of the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU) -- one of the agencies leading the investigation -- spoke with RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service on November 18 and said the probe faces a series of political and bureaucratic hurdles, but that it will continue.

The scandal implicates people at the highest levels of Ukraine's government, centering around businessman Tymur Mindich, an old friend and former business partner of Zelenskyy himself.

The allegations have hit a nerve among Ukrainians who are exhausted after nearly four years of Russia's all-out invasion. Zelenskyy has urged "full cooperation" and vowed to overhaul the country's energy sector.

However, with eight people already named as suspects -- two of whom, including Mindich, have fled the country -- the key question now looming over the scandal is who exactly was the top figure in the scheme.

Following The Money

The focus is on the state-owned nuclear power operator, Energoatom, which has annual revenue of around $4.7 billion.

NABU and the Specialized Anti-Corruption Prosecutor's Office (SAPO) allege that a "high-level criminal organization" embezzled $100 million from the energy sector. The suspects allegedly charged kickbacks of 10-15 percent from the company's private subcontractors in exchange for extending their contracts.

More than a week after the agencies' findings were made public, Kryvonos told RFE/RL that the corruption scheme involved "dozens of international jurisdictions" through which the embezzled funds were circulated before ending up in accounts or being converted into real estate.

The investigators are now tracking the movement of "laundered" money, according to Kryvonos. But complicating the matter, however, is the need to cooperate with Ukraine's Financial Monitoring Service, headed by Filip Pronin.

According to journalists and some lawmakers, Pronin is believed to be close to the president's office and is reportedly under scrutiny by anti-corruption authorities for the alleged embezzlement of funds intended for infrastructure defense in the Poltava region.

Kryvonos said it's crucial, at this stage, to get the Financial Monitoring Service on board for the investigation. But he criticized the agency's response so far -- calling its foot-dragging "suspicious."

"The head of this service -- and the service itself -- should have shown leadership from the very first day when we made these recordings public and detained these individuals," he said, adding that the scandal is bigger than just Energoatom.

"According to our preliminary assessment, many other areas are involved. They should have detected this already at the stage when the scheme, so to speak, existed -- identified it and blocked it."

When asked whether Pronin's agency was actively helping NABU and SAPO trace the funds allegedly laundered through Energoatom, Kryvonos says they "effectively received no relevant information in response" despite submitting "a number of inquiries...regarding defense procurements that may be connected to the [case]."

"Given our understanding of how this service can operate and identify relevant suspicious transactions, and interact with NABU, the complete lack of activity in this area seems very suspicious to us," he added.

Could Mindich Be Extradited?

Mindich, with the alleged code name Karlson, fled Ukraine for Poland on November 10.

A co-owner of the Kvartal 95 comedy troupe, Mindich was close to Zelenskyy, who also co-owned the business before he became president. Kvartal was an important vehicle for Zelenskyy to gain popularity as a comedian and actor before entering politics.

Mindich left the country using a luxury taxi service just hours before authorities carried out raids connected to the investigation, the investigative unit of RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service learned.

That prompted critics to say he must have been alerted ahead of time.

Kryvonos says he wouldn't rule out Mindich facing extradition from Israel, where he also holds citizenship -- in fact, NABU is "working in this direction."

"We are not going to sit idly by just because we might assume that some country won't extradite someone," he said.

"As a rule, suspects don't just sit in one place; they want to travel, visit European countries. Therefore, all measures must be taken to ensure this person is on the international wanted list, so the relevant law enforcement agencies and Interpol have the appropriate orientation to detain this person in the event of crossing and arriving in the territory of another country."

Ali Baba And Pressure On Anti-Corruption Efforts

Over the summer, Zelenskyy sparked a public uproar when he backed a measure that would have sharply reduced the independence of NABU and SAPO.

The move came after Ukraine's domestic security agency (SBU) arrested two NABU officials over alleged ties to Russia and carried out dozens of searches targeting agency employees.

After rare wartime street protests and a wave of calls from European leaders, Zelenskyy backed down and restored the agencies' full independence.

Kryvonos said that if it weren't for the protests, the Energoatom case "wouldn't have happened. It would have been destroyed for sure."

SAPO head Oleksandr Klymenko alleged earlier this week that meetings in the Ukrainian government were held to influence NABU and SAPO investigators following the publication of evidence.

Separately, opposition lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak claimed that the anti-corruption investigative records include a person with the code-name Ali Baba, who was influencing authorities to pressure the anti-corruption agencies.

Zheleznyak added he believed the Ali Baba was Andriy Borysovych Yermak.

A close ally and Zelenskyys most influential aide -- who had previously participated in a number of international meetings, including with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio -- Yermak did not immediately respond to requests for comment from RFE/RLs Ukrainian Service.

Kryvonos neither confirmed nor denied Zheleznyak's statement but he said "there is indeed such a person" who "interferes in the activities of law enforcement agencies" without any right to do so.

He told RFE/RL that this person holds a "high office" -- but he refrained on commenting whether they are part of the president's closest circle.

"This information was obtained operationally, but I can say that this person has no legally defined authority to do such things," he said.
A new US-drafted proposal to halt the war in Ukraine calls for Kyiv to give up some of its territory and some of its weaponry, news reports said, as President Volodymyr Zelenskyy traveled to Turkey in an effort to boost flagging peace talks.

The US proposals also reportedly include cutting the size of Ukraine's armed forces and accepting a rollback of US military assistance that has been essential to Ukraine's fight against Russian forces.

In addition, no foreign troops would be allowed on Ukrainian soil and Kyiv would no longer receive long-range weaponry.

The proposals, which were detailed by The Financial Times and Reuters, largely track with the hard-line demands Russia has made since the beginning of this year, when President Donald Trump moved to open up direct negotiations with Moscow over the Ukraine war.

There was no immediate public response from Ukrainian officials to the reports. A Ukrainian official with direct knowledge of the proposal confirmed its contents but had no further comment.

Shortly after news of the proposals circulated, Zelenskyy posted a message to Telegram where he thanked Turkey's president for hosting the latest talks.

He also praised the "decisive steps and leadership of President Trump [and] every strong and fair proposal to end this war. And only President Trump and the United States of America have enough strength for the war to finally end."

Zelenskyy was due to meet top US Defense Department officials in Kyiv on November 20.

The proposals potentially put Zelenskyy in a difficult position.

On the battlefield, Ukrainian forces are struggling to hold back a bigger, better-equipped Russian Army, even as Moscow's forces suffer extraordinary casualties.

Russia is closing in on the key city of Pokrovsk as part of Putin's stated goal to control all of Ukraine's eastern Donbas region.

Russia is also battering Ukraine's cities and its energy infrastructure for yet another winter, seeking to demoralize already exhausted Ukrainians.

Overnight, a Russian cruise missile strike hit two apartment buildings in the western city of Ternopil, killing at least 25 people and wounded dozens.

Zelenskyy has refused previous demands from Moscow that Ukraine cede territory or downgrade its armed forces, saying it would only weaken Ukraine to the potential of a future new invasion.

At home, Zelenskyy has been politically weakened by a major corruption scandal that has touched on some of his Cabinet ministers and longtime business partners.

Ukrainian lawmakers have called for Zelenskyy to sack his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak.

Yermak, who is traveling with Zelenskyy, posted on social media that "all planned meetings are taking place on schedule" and that he was "in constant contact with representatives of the Donald Trump administration."

The corruption investigation concerns allegations that funds earmarked for building defenses to protect Ukraine's vulnerable energy infrastructure from Russian air attacks were siphoned off in the form of kickbacks to political insiders.

Zelenskyy's Closest Ally

Yermak has played a prominent role in previous diplomatic meetings aimed at finding a path toward a cease-fire or peace deal amid Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

An unelected appointee, Yermak is perhaps the Ukrainian president's most trusted political ally. Their acquaintance began around 2010 and was cemented by a close business relationship before Zelenskyy entered politics. In recent years, Yermak has accumulated significant political influence behind the scenes.

"Yermak is his top aide, his chief administrator, the main button on Zelenskyy's control panel. They've become fused together like Siamese twins," Volodymyr Fesenko, head of the Penta Center for Political Studies in Kyiv, told RFE/RL on November 19.

But he now faces growing pressure for his dismissal or resignation as a high-level corruption investigation gathers pace.

"If Yermak is not fired in the next few days, I worry that we may enter a full-fledged political crisis domestically," Olena Prokopenko, a senior fellow with the German Marshall Fund, told RFE/RL.

"The parliament will become dysfunctional; the cabinet ministers will be un-operational. And this is the kind of crisis that Ukraine cannot afford in the midst of the full-scale war and Russia's advances at the front lines," she added.

The corruption allegations boiled over last week when Ukraine's two leading anti-corruption agencies published evidence detailing their findings.

The issue is all the more toxic because Zelenskyy tried to remove the autonomy of the agencies during the summer only to backtrack on the measure after it sparked the largest street protests since Russia's all-out assault began in February 2022.

The revelations have already resulted in the resignations of the energy minister and the justice minister, while a close Zelenskyy associate, Tymur Mindich, has fled the country.

Ali Baba

Secret recordings released by investigators showed suspects operated under code names. On November 18, a Ukrainian lawmaker alleged one of those names, Ali Baba, was actually Yermak.

The lawmaker, Yaroslav Zheleznyak, said the records showed Yermak allegedly directing unnamed officials to investigate officials with the National Anti-Corruption Bureau of Ukraine (NABU).

Yermak has not responded to requests for comment from RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service.

Zelenskyy has announced he will meet with lawmakers from his Servant of the People party on November 20, prompting speculation as to whether Yermak may be about to be fired.

One of the party's legislators, Fedir Venislavsky, told RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service on November 18 that Yermak should resign.

"Yermak's resignation in this case would definitely dampen this certain excitement around the government," he said, adding that among his party colleagues "there was a lot of talk today that Mr. Yermak should leave."

Adding to the rising political temperature in Kyiv, legislators summoned Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko to the parliament on November 19. Two opposition parties have called for the resignation of the entire cabinet.

"So far, Zelensky seems to be missing an opportunity to provide a strong and decisive response to the events of last week and to the scale of the investigation that we have seen and to how his inner circle is thought to be implicated," said Prokopenko.

She added that foreign pressure might be needed to push Zelenskyy into firing his ally. "It looks like the administration, the government, is still trying to take incremental damage control measures."

Fesenko said that for Zelenskyy, dismissing Yermak would be "like chopping off his own right hand," and suggested it was not imminent. But, he added, "Yermak's resignation could also become inevitable in the event of mass protests."

With reporting by RFE/RL's Ukrainian Service and Senior International Correspondent Ray Furlong
SANTIAGO, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Five foreign tourists were killed after a powerful snowstorm struck Torres del Paine National Park in Patagonia, southern Chile, the local government said Tuesday.

Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate for the Magallanes and the Chilean Antarctica Region, said the dead were two Mexicans, two Germans and a British woman, all part of a tour group visiting the park.

Ruiz said the tourists got lost while strolling in the Los Perros district, located about 11 km from the park entrance.

"Unfortunately, these five victims are still in the phase of evacuation planning and consular procedures due to their nationalities," he said.

Ruiz confirmed that the bodies would be evacuated by helicopter from an area that is "extremely difficult to access" when weather conditions allow. 
A local woman said she is delighted to have been elected as SIPTUs new Honorary Vice President.

Annette Donlon, who is originally from Athlone but now living in Creggs, County Galway, was elected at the unions conference last week.

She has been a SIPTU member for over 30 years, with more than 25 years experience representing workers as a shop steward.

Her achievement was praised by South Roscommon councillors yesterday at their meeting.

Its a two year role and I had an overwhelming majority of the delegates, she said. I have been up and down the country, meeting members and fighting different campaigns such as the Big Start Campaign for early years educators and the Raise the Roof Campaign for housing. Ensuring that workers are protected at work and receive a living wage are also a major priority for her.

The cost of living is going up every day and we are not allowing for it, Ms Donlon, who is a well known Roscommon County Council worker, said. She also voiced her support for the aims of the union's new Honorary President, Alan Lindley.

A long standing union member, she thanked everyone, including her husband John, for their support and said she is looking forward to her term as honorary vice president of Ireland's largest trade union.

See next Tuesday's Herald for full interview
There is only one caste, the caste of humanity; only one religion, the religion of love, says Aishwarya Rai Bachchan

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present on the occasion.

Aishwarya Rai Bachchan News: Actress and Miss World 1994 Aishwarya Rai Bachchan on Wednesday spoke about oneness at the Centenary Celebrations of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Andhra Pradesh.

Addressing the gathering, Aishwarya Rai said, There is only one castethe caste of humanity. There is only one religionthe religion of love. There is only one languagethe language of the heart. And there is only one God, who is omnipresent.

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"Though a century may have passed since his divine birth, his presence, his principles, his teachings, guidance, and his compassion continue to reverberate in the hearts of millions worldwide," she said in her same speech previously at the occasion today.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was also present on the occasion.

(PTI Photos)

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"I extend a heartfelt thank PM Narendra Modi ji, for being with us here today and for honouring this special occasion. I'm looking forward to listening to your wise words, impactful and inspiring as always, to enthrall us today. Your presence here adds sanctity and inspiration to this centenary celebration and reminds us of Swami's message that true leadership is service and service to man is service to God. I stand here today, and in all humility and honesty can say that this divine message, I have always held deeply close to my heart, and put into practice, Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba often spoke about the five D's. Five essential qualities needed for a meaningful, purposeful and spiritually anchored life- Discipline, Dedication, Devotion, Determination, and Discrimination as in the ability to choose between right of wrong; truth and untruth.." the actress added.





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PM Modi will release a commemorative coin and a set of stamps honouring the life, teachings and legacy of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He will also address the gathering.

Later, the Prime Minister will travel to Tamil Nadu to attend several events.

(For more news apart from Punjab News: Dispute Over Bus Timings Turns Violent; Employee Shot Four Times, Remains Critical," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
A major breakthrough came when police discovered a mobile drug manufacturing lab in a rented premises at Tek Chand Colony, Nilothi Extension. File Photo.

Police said the valuation is based on prevailing international pricing patterns.

Delhi Police Busts INR 100-Crore Inter-State Drug Syndicate; Mobile Lab Seized



The Delhi Police Special Cell has dismantled a major interstate narcotics syndicate. It was operating across Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, and Bengaluru, officials said on Wednesday. According to the Special Cell, this crackdown led to the arrest of four members of African origin and the seizure of 20.146 kg of methamphetamine along with 700 drug tablets, collectively valued at over INR 100 crore in the international market. Police said the valuation is based on prevailing international pricing patterns.

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Police said that the operation was led by Inspectors Ranjeet Singh and Sanjeev Kumar and supervised by ACP Neeraj Kumar. According to investigators, specific intelligence was received on November 1, after which a trap was laid near the Dhaula Kuan bus stand around midnight. The Special Cell stated that the first accused  Ezebuenyi Esther Osita, alias Ella  was intercepted carrying a red trolley bag containing 17.146 kg of methamphetamine and 700 psychotropic tablets.

Police said that during interrogation, Osita disclosed that a larger network was operating out of Delhi and was supplying drugs to Mumbai and Bengaluru. Based on her inputs, the Special Cell arrested Charles Chimuanya Ebereonwu, alias Amorka, from Chander Vihar on November 5, recovering an additional 3 kg of methamphetamine, officials said.

A major breakthrough came when police discovered a mobile drug manufacturing lab in a rented premises at Tek Chand Colony, Nilothi Extension. In its press note, the Special Cell said, 'This lab had several pieces of equipment along with precursors, calcium chloride, methanol, coloured and transparent liquid chemicals and solvents.' According to investigators, the lab was designed to shift locations frequently to evade law enforcement.

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Police further stated that Chinoye Emmanuel, allegedly involved in the production process, and Diarra Idriss, alias White Money, a Bengaluru-based distributor, were also arrested. According to the preliminary probe, Idriss received consignments through courier services, sold them locally in Bengaluru, and routed proceeds abroad through informal channels. Police clarified these financial findings are preliminary and subject to further verification.

Investigators said the syndicate appears to have been active for at least three years, using women carriers, hidden bag cavities, long train routes, and interstate transit points to move drugs undetected. The Special Cell added that all four accused were living in India without valid travel documents, leading to additions under the Foreigners Act and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.

DCP Aalap Patel said, Efforts are being made to identify and arrest the remaining members of the drug cartel. Police added that financial trails, foreign connections, and logistical aides linked to the syndicate are now being mapped.
NIA arrests Lawrence Bishnoi's brother, Anmol Bishnoi, after his extradition from the US

Anmol is accused of running terror syndicates, executing attacks, and Extortion

The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Wednesday arrested the brother and close aide of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi following his deportation from the US to India, the agency said in a press release.

According to the NIA, US-based Anmol Bishnoi had been absconding since 2022 and is the 19th accused to be arrested for his involvement in the terror syndicate led by his jailed brother, Lawrence Bishnoi.

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Anmol was chargesheeted by the NIA in March 2023 after investigations established that he had actively aided designated individual terrorist Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi in the commission of various acts of terrorism in the country during the 20202023 period, the agency said.

Anmol is accused of running terror syndicates, executing attacks, and Extortion:

Operating closely with various Bishnoi gang associates, Anmol continued to run terror syndicates and execute terrorist acts from the US for the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, using its operatives on the ground. Investigations revealed that Anmol Bishnoi had provided shelter and logistic support to the gangs shooters and ground operatives, the NIA stated.

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He was also engaged in extortion in India from foreign soil with the help of other gangsters, it added.

The agency further said it continues to investigate the terror-gangster conspiracy case led by Lawrence Bishnoi as part of its efforts to dismantle the nexus between terrorists, gangsters and arms smugglers, including their infrastructure and funding channels.

Anmol Bishnoi was deported from the US earlier today. According to reports, Anmol is scheduled to be produced before the special NIA judge Prashant Kumar at around 4 pm today. Before the hearing, Bishnoi is undergoing a medical check-up.

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On the extradition of Anmol Bishnoi, Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema launched attacks on the previous governments of Punjab.

Cheema told news agency ANI, "Previous governments, the Akali Dal, the BJP, and the Congress had turned Punjab into a land of gangsters. They recruited their own gangsters and used them against each other. CM Bhagwant Singh Mann has made a commitment to make Punjab gangster-free, and this action is in line with that. Today, we will present him to court, where a case will be filed against him, and he will be punished as per the law."

(screenshot of Punjab Minister Cheema while talking to ANI on Anmol Bihsnoi's extradition)

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Meanwhile, security has been heightened at Patiala House Court as the NIA is about to produce gangster Anmol Bishnoi in the court to obtain his remand for questioning, ANI reported. The team has arrived at the court along with Anmol.

Anmol Bishnoi being brought to Delhi's Patiala amid tight security

(For more news apart from NIA arrests Lawrence Bishnoi's brother, Anmol Bishnoi, after his extradition from the US," stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman.)
The Centre has already disbursed more than INR 3.70 lakh crore to over 11 crore farmer families since the scheme's launch on February 24, 2019. File Photo.

It benefits nearly 9 crore farmers across the country.

PM Modi to Release PM-Kisan 21st Instalment Today; INR 18,000 Crore to Reach 9 Crore Farmers

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will today release the 21st instalment of the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) scheme at an event in Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu. He will also inaugurate the South India Natural Farming Summit 2025. According to information published on the official PM-Kisan portal, the instalment of INR to eligible farmer families will be released on November 19, 2025.

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As per government data, the 21st instalment amounts to over INR 18,000 crore. It benefits nearly 9 crore farmers across the country. The Centre has already disbursed more than INR 3.70 lakh crore to over 11 crore farmer families since the schemes launch on February 24, 2019.

A separate agricultural update cited by officials says total transfers across earlier instalments have crossed INR 3.91 lakh crore, underscoring PM-KISANs massive contribution as one of Indias largest direct benefit transfer programmes.



Agricultural sector leaders also highlighted the relevance of the timing. Amith Agarwal, co-founder and CEO of StarAgri Warehousing & Collateral Management, said the instalment comes at a crucial moment when rising input costs, mandi price volatility, and liquidity gaps continue to challenge small and marginal farmers. He added that PM-KISANs direct transfers influence farm decisions, post-harvest management, storage choices, and credit dependency.

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Alongside the national event, Gujarat holds a parallel programme in Gandhinagar, led by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, Deputy CM Harsh Sanghavi, and Agriculture Minister Jitu Vaghani. Vaghani stated that Gujarat alone will receive INR 986 crore for 49.31 lakh farmer families.

Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs), ICAR centres, and agricultural universities across India will livestream the Prime Ministers address as thousands of farmers tune in.

How to check eligibility status

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According to details shared on the official PM-Kisan portal, benefits are for the farmers whose land records are verified on the portal and whose bank accounts are Aadhaar-seeded.

Steps to check instalment status:

1. Visit pmkisan.gov.in.

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2. Under Farmers Corner, click Beneficiary List or use the Aadhaar/Bank Account/Mobile search option.

3. Enter required details and captcha.

4. Click Get Data to view beneficiary and payment status.

Todays instalment continues the Centres effort to offer assured income support, reduce dependence on informal credit, and help farmers manage crop-related and household expenses.
The President applauded the achievements under the Jal SanchayJan Bhagidari initiative. File Photo.

President Murmu emphasised that India's water resources are under growing stress due to rising demand and climate change.

President Murmu Highlights Urgent Need for Collective Water Action at National Water Awards



President Droupadi Murmu urged citizens, institutions, and governments to treat water as a sacred and finite national resource while presenting the 6th National Water Awards and the Jal SanchayJan Bhagidari Awards at a ceremony in New Delhi on Tuesday. Her remarks were reported by The Tribune* and formally detailed in a statement that was issued by the Press Information Bureau (PIB).

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President Murmu emphasised that Indias water resources are under growing stress due to rising demand and climate change. Citing the Rig Veda, she reminded us that ancient Indian traditions viewed water as a source of immortality, underscoring its cultural and ecological significance. According to the PIB note, she highlighted that per capita water availability has become a major national concern and called for collective action across all levels of society.

The President applauded the achievements under the Jal SanchayJan Bhagidari initiative. She noted that more than 35 lakh groundwater recharge structures have been constructed since its launch last year. She also acknowledged industries that have adopted circular water systems, including water treatment, recirculation, and zero-liquid-discharge models  measures she described as crucial for long-term conservation.

Murmu also cited transformative progress under the Jal Jeevan Mission, stating, as per The Tribune, that tap water access in rural households has risen from less than 17% in 2019 to 81% today and has eased the daily burden previously faced by women and girls.

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Awards and Key Winners

A total of 46 winners across 10 categories were honoured this year. According to PIB Delhi, Maharashtra won the Best State award, followed by Gujarat and Haryana. Five districtsRajnandgaon (Chhattisgarh), Khargone (Madhya Pradesh), Mirzapur (Uttar Pradesh), Tirunelveli (Tamil Nadu) and Sepahijala (Tripura)secured top ranks in their respective zones.

Other top awardees included Navi Mumbai as Best Urban Local Body; IIT Gandhinagar and ICARCCARI Goa in the institutional category; Apollo Tyres, Kanchipuram, as Best Industry; and several village panchayats, schools, Water User Associations, and civil society groups recognised for exemplary work.

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President Murmu concluded by urging lifelong water stewardship, stating that sustainable management is only possible through the collective participation of individuals, families, society, and the government.
The decision regarding Haseena Sheikh is unjust

The ICT found Sheikh Hasina guilty of five charges.

The International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) of Bangladesh has convicted the countrys ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina Wajed and former National Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal of crimes against humanity and sentenced them both to death. The third main accused in the same case and former IG (Police) of Dhaka, Chaudhry Abdullah Al-Mamun, was also convicted of the above crimes but was not sentenced to death on the ground that he had chosen to be a witness under oath.

Therefore, he has been sentenced to only five years in prison. It is no exaggeration to say that the entire trial was a travesty of justice. Therefore, the sentence given to Sheikh Hasina or Asaduzzaman Kamal is also unjust. The United Nations Human Rights Commission (UNHRC) is of the opinion that Sheikh Hasina is not innocent, but the death sentence is unjust. Experts in law and justice know that International Criminal Tribunals (ICTs) are not based on judges or lawyers from any one country. They must have at least one judge from other countries.

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Similarly, defendants (i.e. accused) should also be free to hire a lawyer from another country so that that lawyer can represent his client without fear of retaliation from the government of the country in which the case is being tried. The Muhammad Yunus government of Bangladesh has not shown any interest in paying attention to such legal nuances. The lawyer provided by the government to defend Sheikh Hasina, instead of showing his sense of duty towards his profession, chose to side with the government. Neither the government witnesses were cross-examined nor were any witnesses in Sheikh Hasinas favor presented. Therefore, at every stage of the trial, vindictiveness prevailed; the final decision itself was bound to be the product of vindictiveness. It was also welcomed by the vindictive, Hasinas supporters were made victims of violence.

There is no doubt that Sheikh Hasina should have been tried. The atrocities and torture that were committed against anti-government protesters in the capital Dhaka and other parts of Bangladesh for a month before she fled Bangladesh on August 5 last year and sought refuge in India were both undemocratic and inhumane. According to the UNHC, around 1,400 people were killed in police firing and other incidents of government violence during anti-government protests. Independent experts have been calling this figure a fabrication. They do not believe the death toll to be more than 142. Yes, the number of injured is certainly said to be around 6,000. Even before such protests, Sheikh Hasina had been wreaking havoc on her political opponents by adopting an authoritarian attitude for 12 years. Her main target was Begum Khaleda Zias Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP). Its entire leadership was in jail. It was only natural for anger to arise and be organized against this kind of brutality. The intensity of this public anger forced Sheikh Hasina to flee the country.

The ICT found Sheikh Hasina guilty of five charges. Of these, she was sentenced to two. Both were related to the deaths of six students each in two separate incidents. One carried a death sentence and the other a life sentence until natural death. The ICT also ordered the seizure and auctioning of the properties of the three accused, including Hasina, and the distribution of the auction proceeds among the families of the victims of government repression. Despite such orders, the incidents of mob violence in Dhaka and elsewhere show that the interim government led by Muhammad Yunus is not capable of maintaining law and order.

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Steps such as maintaining the ban on Sheikh Hasinas party, the Awami League, and depriving it of participating in the elections due in February next year show that Sheikh Hasinas opponents still fear the organizational strength of the Awami League. However, the ICT The decision of the ICC has certainly increased the headache of the Indian government. Sheikh Hasina is in Indian asylum. The Bangladesh government had earlier also sought her extradition. Now in the light of the ICT decision, it has been sought again. The Indian government has maintained silence on this demand. The comment of the Ministry of External Affairs is limited to the events inside Bangladesh are being monitored. In the current situation, silence is the best solution. Any further step should be taken only after the elections to the Bangladesh National Assembly (National Assembly) to be held in February 2026.
Nov. 2

Angel Godinez, 31, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for criminal damage to the property of a household member at an unspecified address.

Julian Gonzales, 42, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for criminal damage to property and aggravated DWI/DUI (refused testing) in the 2400 block of Dover Drive.

April Ledgerwood, 48, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for battery upon a peace officer at an unspecified address.

Aaron Leeder, 38, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for violation of a restraining order in the 2100 block of Lema Road.

Trevor Harrison, 37, of Albuquerque, was arrested for possession of a controlled substance, aggravated DWI/DUI (refused testing), careless driving, open container and driving while license suspended at an unspecified address.

Nov. 6

Ruben Pierre, 32, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for aggravated DWI, child abuse, reckless driving and expired registration near Sara Road/Grande Boulevard.

Melvin Sedillo, 56, of Albuquerque, was arrested for driving while license revoked and no proof of insurance at an unspecified address.

Glenda Rico, 35, of Cuba, was arrested for aggravated battery against a household member and possession of drug paraphernalia at an unspecified address.

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Martha Nikolai, 60, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for aggravated DWI in the 500 block of Brazos Drive.

Nov. 7

Trevor Shuman, 29, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for battery against a household member at a redacted address.

Xavier Smith, 29, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for aggravated battery against a household member and battery against a household member in the 2700 block of Moon Shadow Drive.

Jesse Aguilar, 36, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for aggravated DWI and DWI with a minor in the vehicle at an unspecified address.

Nov. 8

Francisco Baca, 20, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for battery against a household member at the Rio Rancho Events Center.

Tateuni Chino, 21, of Acoma, was arrested for two counts of battery upon a peace officer and two counts of battery at an unspecified address.

Ruben Garcia, 30, of Albuquerque, was arrested for receiving or transferring stolen motor vehicles at an unspecified address.

Fernando Huerta, 28, of Rio Rancho, was arrested for battery against a household member at an unspecified address.
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi recently openly made wrongful remarks on Taiwan, and brutally interfered in China's internal affairs. Such a country cannot shoulder the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security and is not qualified to be a permanent member of the UN Security Council, a foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Speaking at the UN General Assembly's plenary meeting on Security Council reform on Tuesday, China's permanent representative to the United Nations said that Japan is totally unqualified to seek a permanent seat on the Security Council.

In response, spokesperson Mao Ning told a regular news briefing that according to the United Nations Charter, the Security Council bears the primary responsibility for maintaining international peace and security. During World War II, Japan launched an aggressive war, bringing profound disasters to the people of Asia as well as the rest of the world.

To this day, Japan has yet to thoroughly reflect on its war crimes. There are still people who promote a wrong view of World War II history, visit the Yasukuni Shrine, and distort, deny or even glorify its history of aggression, Mao said.

She said recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi openly made wrongful remarks on Taiwan, brutally interfered in China's internal affairs, trampled on international law and the basic norms of international relations, and challenged the post-war international order.

Such a country cannot shoulder the responsibility of maintaining international peace and security and is not qualified to be a permanent member of the UN Security Council, Mao said. 
RIO RANCHO  A Santa Fe police officer is wanted in court for a domestic violence incident in Rio Rancho.

All officers in New Mexico and bordering states were instructed to arrest Xavier Smith, 29, of Rio Rancho, in a Nov. 12 warrant, according to court records. Additionally, the warrant is to be returned wherever he is arrested.

Records show Smith was due to appear in the Sandoval County 13th Judicial District court that day but did not show up, resulting in the warrant.

Smith was charged for aggravated battery and battery against a household member in the 2700 block of Moon Shadow Drive in Rio Rancho.

The Santa Fe New Mexican reported Nov. 14 that Santa Fe Police Deputy Chief Ben Valdez confirmed Smith was placed on desk duty at the agency with no contact with the public on Thursday.

It added that Valdez said an internal investigation will be conducted into the incident upon completion of the criminal investigation by the Rio Rancho Police Department and a determination by the 13th Judicial District Attorneys Office of whether the charges will be pursued.

According to a criminal complaint filed Nov. 7, the alleged victim requested a restraining order and police were called for a civil escort.

They told police the altercation, which occurred two days prior, involved Smith strangling and hitting them. They added that they feared retaliation.

The altercation allegedly happened over an affair that Smith was having. Smith was worried about a message between the victim and his affair because it might affect his job, the complaint states.

He admitted to striking the victim with open hand techniques but said he didnt grab their neck and instead used his shoulder to push down on the victims chest.

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Officers noted they saw the injuries to their neck even though Smith claimed there werent signs of injury.

Smith is scheduled for a first appearance Dec. 1. He could face three or more years if convicted.
Freemasons who are also military veterans stand to be recognized for their service following a presentation in Rio Rancho on Nov. 10, highlighting the connection between the founding of the U.S. Marine Corps. and the freemasons. Kevin Opsahl

Burx Norrod, master of the Sandoval Masonic Lodge No. 76 and Marine Corps. veteran, gives a presentation on Nov. 10, highlighting the connection between the founding of the U.S. Marine Corps. and the freemasons. Kevin Opsahl

RIO RANCHO  The Few. The Proud. The Masons.

Burx Norrods adaptation of the Marine Corps recruiting slogan was his way of explaining the selective nature of the Freemasons, who gather monthly at Sandoval Masonic Lodge No. 76, 1420 Barbara Loop SE in Rio Rancho.

Were not taking everybody that wants to come in the door. Its only the few that we will ultimately select to become Masons, said Norrod, master of the Lodge and U.S. Marine Corps veteran. Masons are very proud of their heritage. In the same way, Im also proud of the Marine Corps heritage, and I see that connection right away.

The historic connection between the Marines and Freemasons is what Norrod shared in a public presentation on Nov. 10 to honor the 250th anniversary of the military branchs founding on Nov. 10, 1775.

Its fitting that we gather in a Masonic Lodge for this celebration, because Freemasonry and the Marine Corps share a deeply connected history, rooted in brotherhood, service and moral discipline, Norrod said during the presentation.

He said that 250 years ago, men of all ages and occupations gathered inside a dusty, candle-lit tavern in Philadelphia. There, in what was known as Tun Tavern, two men volunteered to become a new breed of warriors, fighting for liberty and independence.

Inside these very walls, a brotherhood formed  the United States Marine Corps, Norrod said, noting it was at that time called the Continental Marines since the service predated the birth of the U.S., which came a year later.

In 1775, Samuel Nicholas was commissioned to raise two battalions of Marines and appointed Robert Mullen, also a Freemason, as the Marine Corps first recruiter.

(They) turned the tavern into the first Marine recruiting station, Norrod said.

A resolution of the Continental Congress would ultimately establish the Marines.

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Marines who were freemasons included Gen. John A. Lejeune, whose name bears the famed Marine Corps base in North Carolina. Lejeune issued the first Marine Corps birthday message in 1921, which is read every Nov. 10, said Norrod, who shared a video that highlighted the message.

Since (Nov. 10, 1775), many thousand men have borne the name Marine, the video stated. In memory of them, it is fitting that we who are Marines should commemorate the birthday of our core by calling to mind the glories of its long and illustrious history.

The message continued, From the Battle of Trenton to Argonne, Marines have won foremost honors in war ... and have grown gray in war in both hemispheres and in every corner of the seven seas.

Every year, the sitting commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps provides a birthday message  and Eric Smith, who has severed since September 2023, is no exception.

Our Corps has come a long way since Samuel Nichols first took command of two battalions at Tun Tavern, Smith said in a video message. Tough weapons, platforms and technology continue to evolve. Our individual Marines grit, discipline (and) resolve remain our decisive advantage.

Happy 250th birthday, Marines, Smith concluded, adding the Latin phase, Semper fidelis, meaning always faithful.

Tracing the Freemasons, however, goes back almost a century earlier than the marines  to 1685, when a Quaker merchant named Samuel Carpenter built the tavern, according to Norrod.

It quickly became a favorite meeting place among the colonies, known for its fine ale (and) spirited conversations, Norrod said.

By 1732, Tun Tavern had become more than a tavern, he said. It was a gathering place for men of reason and fraternity  and St. Johns Lodge No. 1 of the Grand Lodge of the Masonic Temple was born.

The tavern, however, burned down in 1781, and a historical marker  which Norrod has visited  now stands in its place.

While the physical footprint of the birthplace of the Freemasons and Marines may be gone, their core virtues remain, Norrod said. Freemason virtues include brotherly love, relief and truth. The Marine Corps abides by Esprit de corps (a French term meaning group spirit), selfless service and honor.

Both teach us to serve something greater than ourselves, Norrod said. Whether in the lodge or on the battlefield, these principles unite men in purpose.

He added that the bond between Freemasons and Marines remains unbroken.

This months event at the lodge included a dinner with Freemason veterans, including Rio Rancho Governing Body member Bob Tyler, who served in the U.S. Navy.

The anniversary of any military service is amazing, said Tyler, who noted he served alongside Marines when he was in the Navy. I truly respect each and everything that the Marine Corps has done for the country and for the service  as well as all the other branches.
New World Development Company Limited (NDVLY) on Wednesday said it is progressing with development in the Northern Metropolis while continuing efforts to unlock the value of its agricultural land.

The company said it is jointly developing two residential projects in Yuen Long South with China Resources Land (Overseas) Limited, which together are expected to provide about 1,800 homes. It added that the first site has recently completed its land premium payment and held a ground-breaking ceremony.

Positioned within the Northern Metropolis' proposed High-end Professional Services and Logistics Hub, the Yuen Long South development will benefit from proximity to Yuen Long town centre, established amenities and rail connectivity. The overall project will comprise approximately 720,000 square feet of gross floor area, built in phases.

According to NWD, the first site will offer roughly 280,000 square feet of GFA and around 700 homes, with sales expected to begin in fiscal year 2027.

"New World Development currently has approximately 15 million square feet site area of agricultural land bank, much of which is situated in prime locations within the Northern Metropolis," said Huang Shaomei, Echo, Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of New World Development.

"The Northern Metropolis is the new engine for Hong Kong's future development and a crucial cornerstone for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area initiative," stated Chang Ying, Jack, Vice President of CR Land and Chairman of CR Land (Overseas).

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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President Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman have finalized a series of landmark agreements that deepen the U.S.-Saudi strategic partnership.

These agreements build on Trump's visit to Riyadh in May, when he secured $600 billion in Saudi investment commitments for the United States.

The Crown Prince announced Tuesday that Saudi Arabia will be increasing their investment commitments in the United States to almost $1 trillion.

Key agreements include the Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement, advancements in critical minerals cooperation, and an AI Memorandum of Understanding.

The United States and Saudi Arabia signed a Joint Declaration on the Completion of Negotiations on Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation. The multi-billion-dollar nuclear energy partnership with Saudi Arabia means American companies will be the Gulf oil giants' civil nuclear cooperation partners. The White House made it clear that all cooperation will be conducted in a manner consistent with strong nonproliferation standards.

The United States and Saudi Arabia also signed a Strategic Framework for Cooperation on Securing Uranium, Metals, Permanent Magnets, and Critical Minerals Supply Chains, deepening collaboration and aligning U.S. national strategies to diversify critical mineral supply chains.

The two countries have signed a landmark AI Memorandum of Understanding that gives Saudi Arabia access to world-leading American systems while protecting U.S. from foreign influence.

Trump and Mohammed bin Salman signed the U.S.-Saudi Strategic Defense Agreement, that strengthens the two allied nations' more than 80-year defense partnership and fortifies deterrence across the Middle East.

The SDA makes it easier for U.S. defense firms to operate in Saudi Arabia, securing new burden-sharing funds from that country to defray U.S. costs, the White House said.

Trump approved a major defense sale package, including future F-35 deliveries to Saudi Arabia.

Saudi Arabia has agreed to purchase nearly 300 American tanks.

The United States and Saudi Arabia have agreed to intensify their engagement in the coming weeks on trade issues of mutual interest, including in areas related to reducing non-tariff barriers, recognition of standards, and improving the investment environment.

Separately, the U.S. Treasury Department said it signed agreements with Saudi Ministry of Finance to enhance collaboration on capital technology, standards, and regulations, and deepen partnership in international financial institutions.

The Financial and Economic Partnership Arrangement, signed by U.S. Secretary Scott Bessent and Saudi Finance Minister Mohammed Aljadaan, advances key priorities at the World Bank, IMF, and G20.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- After a six-day visit to China, German graduate student Fridolin Kollmar has brought back not only eye-opening memories, but also golden business opportunities.

More than just a student, Kollmar came to China as the seventh generation of his family's packaging paper machinery business. Founded in 1842, the German manufacturer has opened a small workshop near Shanghai and is seeking to expand its business in China.

Planning to join his family business after graduation, the young successor saw significant opportunities for the company during his trip. "China has a rapidly expanding market for sustainable packaging materials," he said, being excited about closer cooperation with China in his future career.

Kollmar was among 60 European youth from 30 countries who gathered with their Chinese peers at the China-Europe Youth Dialogue 2025 in Beijing on Monday to discuss their roles in building closer China-Europe ties as the two sides celebrate the 50th anniversary of their diplomatic relations.

"Young people, with their openness and inclusiveness, are the best envoys for breaking down cognitive barriers," said Zhao Rui, vice president of the Chinese Academy of Social Sciences (CASS), the host of the event, at the opening ceremony of the conference.

Before the dialogue, the European delegation spent five days in Hangzhou, visiting leading tech companies and research institutions, and experiencing traditional Chinese culture in rural villages.

During the conference, Chinese and European youth engaged in dialogues on topics such as cultural exchanges and the exchange of civilizations, as well as sci-tech and economic cooperation.

"One area where I hope to see more collaboration is research and technology," Antonia Baumgartner, a freelance journalist from Austria, told Xinhua. It is her first time in China, and she has witnessed the country's progress in some high-tech fields.

"Technology is closely linked to research, and with so many innovations emerging, and with global challenges to face, it is not productive to think only within national boundaries," she noted.

Regarding manufacturing and trade, Kollmar noted that Germany and China are two major industrial economies that rely heavily on each other. "Mutual dependence makes continued partnership essential," he said.

Over the past half-century, China-EU relations have made significant progress, with bilateral trade in goods reaching 785.8 billion U.S. dollars in 2024. The two sides are each other's second-largest trading partners, and they cooperate across politics, the economy, culture, energy, and science and technology.

Speaking of future potential, Ma Linhe, an assistant research fellow at CASS, mentioned that China and Europe face many common challenges today, such as industrial transformation, employment, an aging population and environmental protection. "I'm confident that young people from both sides can explore solutions together and learn from each other's experiences," he said.

In lively discussions, participants from both sides agreed that beyond being partners, the future of China-Europe relations lies more deeply in friendship and genuine people-to-people connections among the youth.

Zhang Jiarui, a PhD candidate of the University of CASS, shared how cultural symbols like the popular "Labubu" IP toy help spark friendships across continents. As Chinese culture gains wider international recognition, she said, it brings young people closer.

"I do hope that we don't see each other as countries anymore, but as people, as the friends behind the flags," said Oliver Meyer, founder and CEO of Storabble Group AG. "We should approach each other with the desire to understand and the willingness to maintain the friendship that we built here."

While addressing the opening ceremony, Grzegorz Kolodko, former deputy prime minister of Poland, noted that there is greater trust among younger generations and, hence, greater hope of making changes for the better.

"Today, we are witnessing so many tensions. Youth should create spaces where cooperation becomes possible, rather than rivalry," Baumgartner said.

Stressing the significant role of youth in shaping a bright future, Jonathan Schwestka, parliamentary assistant at the European Parliament, said young people can advance China-Europe relations by deepening mutual understanding, strengthening academic and cultural exchanges, and promoting business partnerships and joint innovation.

Currently continuing his studies, Kollmar is learning Chinese to enhance communication and prepare for future cooperation. "I am confident I will have the chance to work closely with China in the future," he said. 
Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong meets with Uzbekistan's Minister of Internal Affairs Aziz Tashpulatov in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Dai Tianfang)

BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese State Councilor and Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong met with Uzbekistan's Minister of Internal Affairs Aziz Tashpulatov in Beijing on Wednesday.

Wang said China is willing to work with Uzbekistan to implement the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, enhance exchanges at all levels, and strengthen practical cooperation in areas such as counter-terrorism, combating telecom fraud and cybercrime, security for major events and law enforcement capacity building.

These efforts, Wang added, will help ensure high-quality advancement of the Belt and Road Initiative, effectively safeguard the security and stability of both nations, and promote the building of a China-Uzbekistan community with a shared future that is more substantial and dynamic.

Tashpulatov, for his part, expressed Uzbekistan's willingness to maintain close communication and exchanges with China, and promote in-depth and substantive cooperation between the two countries in law enforcement and security. 
Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, delivers a video speech from Beijing, capital of China, at the 10th China-Singapore Forum on Leadership held in Singapore, on Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)

BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Shi Taifeng, a senior official of the Communist Party of China (CPC), delivered a video speech from Beijing at the 10th China-Singapore Forum on Leadership, which was held in Singapore on Tuesday.

Shi, a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, noted that as changes unfold in unprecedented ways, it is important to cultivate new opportunities amid crisis and pave new paths within shifting circumstances.

He called on countries around the world to strengthen their leadership development, and to work together to build a community with a shared future for all.

Shi emphasized that over the past century, the unparalleled leadership of the CPC has united and led the Chinese people to achieve historic feats and create miracles.

"We must carry forward the spirit of thorough self-reform, persistently advance full and rigorous Party self-governance, and do better in leading a social revolution through the Party's self-reform," Shi said.

Singapore's Coordinating Minister for Public Services and Minister for Defence Chan Chun Sing attended the meeting and delivered a speech.

The two delegations exchanged in-depth views and signed a memorandum of understanding on exchanges and cooperation. 

Shi Taifeng, a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and head of the CPC Central Committee's Organization Department, delivers a video speech from Beijing, capital of China, at the 10th China-Singapore Forum on Leadership held in Singapore, on Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Yin Bogu)
Teasing out biochemical information from ancient organic-rich sediments, notably the timing of the emergence of photosynthesis relative to the inferred oxygenation of Earths atmosphere, remains a challenging opportunity. To tackle this problem, scientists analyzed 406 diverse ancient and modern samples and used supervised machine learning to discriminate samples of biogenic vs. abiogenic origin, as well as photosynthetic vs. nonphotosynthetic physiology. They found chemical evidence for biogenic molecular assemblages in Paleoarchean rocks (3.51 billion years ago) and for photosynthetic life in Neoarchean rocks (2.52 billion years ago).

Earths earliest life left behind little in the way of molecular traces.

The few fragile remnants such as ancient cells and microbial mats were buried, crushed, heated, and fractured within Earths restless crust before being thrust back to the surface.

These transformations all but obliterated biosignatures holding vital clues to the origins and early evolution of life.

Paleobiologists who search for signs of Earths most ancient life have long relied mainly on fossil organisms, including microscopic fossils of single cells and filaments, and the mineralized remains of cellular structures such as microbial mats and mound-like stromatolites, which provide convincing evidence of life as far back as 3.5 billion years ago. However, such remains are few and far between.

A second line of evidence relies on the preservation of diagnostic biomolecules in ancient rocks.

Lifes hardiest organic molecules  those derived from cell membranes or some metabolic processes  have been found in sediments as old as 1.7 billion years, while much older carbon-rich rocks preserve isotopic signatures that hint at a vibrant biosphere 3.5 billion years ago.

However, most ancient rocks preserve neither fossil cells nor any surviving biomolecules.

The vast majority of ancient carbon-bearing sediments have been heated and altered in ways that break every diagnostic biomolecule into countless small fragments.

Those fragments have proven too small and too generic to provide any clues about ancient life  until now.

Ancient rocks are full of interesting puzzles that tell us the story of life on Earth, but a few of the pieces are always missing, said Michigan State University researcher Katie Maloney, co-author of the study.

Pairing chemical analysis and machine learning has revealed biological clues about ancient life that were previously invisible.

The researchers used high-resolution chemical analysis to break down organic and inorganic materials into molecular fragments, then trained an AI system to recognize the chemical fingerprints left behind by life.

They examined a total of 406 fossil, modern biological, meteoritic, and synthetic samples.

The AI model distinguished biological from non-biological materials with over 90% accuracy and detected the earliest biomolecular evidence for:

(i) the photosynthetic origins of organic molecules in the 2.52-billion-year-old Gamohaan Formation, Campbellrand Group, South Africa, and the 2.30-billion-year-old Gowganda Group, Ontario, Canada;

(ii) the biogenicity of organic molecules preserved in the 3.51-billion-year-old Singhbhum Craton, India; the 3.33-billion-year-old Josefsdal Chert of the Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa; and the 2.66-billion-year-old Jerrinah Formation, Fortescue Group, Pilbara Craton, Australia;

(iii) and the apparently non-photosynthetic origin of organic species in the 3.5-billion-year-old Theespruit Formation, Barberton Greenstone Belt, South Africa, and the 3.48-billion-year-old Dresser Formation, Pilbara Craton, Australia.

Ancient life leaves more than fossils; it leaves chemical echoes, said senior author Dr. Robert Hazen, a researcher at the Carnegie Institution for Science.

Using machine learning, we can now reliably interpret these echoes for the first time.

This innovative technique helps us to read the deep time fossil record in a new way, Dr. Maloney added.

This could help guide the search for life on other planets.

Understanding when photosynthesis emerged helps explain how Earths atmosphere became oxygen-rich, a key milestone that allowed complex life, including humans, to evolve, said first author Dr. Michael Wong, also from the Carnegie Institution for Science.

This represents an inspiring example of how modern technology can shine a light on the planets most ancient stories and could reshape how we search for ancient life on Earth and other worlds.

In future, we plan to test materials like anoxygenic photosynthetic bacteria  possible analogs for extraterrestrial organisms. This is a powerful new tool for astrobiology.

These samples and the spectral signatures they produce have been studied for decades, but AI offers a powerful new lens that allows us to extract critical information and better understand their nature, added Carnegie Institution for Sciences Dr. Anirudh Prabhu, co-author of the study.

Even when degradation makes it difficult to spot signs of life, our machine learning models can still detect the subtle traces left behind by ancient biological processes.

Whats exciting is that this approach doesnt rely on finding recognizable fossils or intact biomolecules.

AI didnt just help us analyze data faster, it allowed us to make sense of messy, degraded chemical data.

It opens the door to exploring ancient and alien environments with a fresh lens, guided by patterns we might not even know to look for ourselves.

The teams results appear this week in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences.

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Michael L. Wong et al. 2025. Organic geochemical evidence for life in Archean rocks identified by pyrolysis-GC-MS and supervised machine learning. PNAS 122 (47): e2514534122; doi: 10.1073/pnas.2514534122
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday that the international community must stay highly vigilant and resolutely thwart any attempt to revive militarism, in response to a related query about the recent blatant remarks by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan.

Analysts have pointed out that among all the prime ministers of Japan, Takaichi was the first to clearly state a "Taiwan contingency" could constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan. In such an event, Japan may invoke the so-called right to collective self-defense to interfere militarily in the Taiwan Strait.

Spokesperson Mao Ning said the right of collective self-defense set forth in the UN Charter is created to safeguard the collective security of the international community and prevent the revival of fascist forces. Japan has been restricted from exercising this right since the end of World War II.

Mao told a daily press briefing that a review of history shows that launching aggression against other countries under the pretext of so-called "survival-threatening situation" and "self-defense" has always been a convenient tactic of Japanese militarism.

She went on to point out in 1931, Japan called whether it could seize "Manchuria" as "survival-threatening," and used that as a pretext to carry out the September 18th Incident and invaded and occupied Northeast China. Japan later claimed that to defend "the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere" was an existential battle for Japan, enlarging its war of aggression to the entire Asia. Whether to attack Pearl Harbor was also deemed as "survival-threatening" to Japan, which ignited the Pacific War.

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the international community must guard against and firmly thwart any attempt of reviving militarism, and jointly safeguard the post-war international order and world peace, Mao added. 
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Under the current circumstances, even if Japanese seafood is exported to China, there would be no market for it, a Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson said on Wednesday.

Spokesperson Mao Ning made the remarks at a regular news briefing when answering a query related to the Japanese seafood import suspension.

Mao noted that Japan had previously committed to fulfilling its regulatory responsibilities for seafood exports to China and ensuring their quality and safety, which is a prerequisite for Japanese seafood to be exported to China.

"However, Japan has so far failed to provide the promised technical materials," said Mao.

She went on to say that recently, Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's retrogressive and erroneous remarks on major issues, such as the Taiwan question, have also drawn a massive public backlash among the Chinese people. 
Participants attend a launch ceremony for the Greek edition of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" in Athens, Greece, Nov. 18, 2025. (Photo by Lefteris Partsalis/Xinhua)

ATHENS, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The Greek edition of Xi Jinping: The Governance of China was launched Tuesday in Athens, with more than 100 representatives from both countries attending the event.

Participants said the event provided an important platform for exchanges and mutual learning between Eastern and Western civilizations. By sharing governance experience, they said, China and Greece enhanced understanding and built consensus, offering new ideas for expanding practical cooperation across various sectors and adding momentum to the steady growth of their comprehensive strategic partnership.

Chinese representatives also introduced the strategic plans laid out at the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China on expanding high-level opening-up. Greek scholars and guests said China has demonstrated the advantages and effectiveness of its governance through successive five-year plans for national economic and social development. They expressed hope to engage more deeply in China's development during the 15th Five-Year Plan period and share the opportunities it will bring.

Xie Gang, vice president of China International Communications Group, said the publication would help readers understand China's governance in the new era -- characterized by comprehensive reform, a people-centered approach, dialogue among civilizations and multilateralism in global governance. He said he hoped the book would strengthen mutual learning and practical cooperation between China and Greece.

Ioannis Tragakis, chairman of the Greece-China Friendship Group in the Greek parliament, recalled his 2019 meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping. He said the launch honored an important work of political theory and further deepened bilateral friendship.

Concepts such as ecological civilization and a community with a shared future for humanity, he noted, offer guidance for addressing current global challenges. As nations with long histories and shared development aspirations, Greece and China should pursue creative and practical cooperation to promote global progress.

Chinese Ambassador to Greece Fang Qiu said the book reveals the philosophical foundations of China's governance, showcases China's openness and inclusiveness, and highlights the contemporary value of exchanges among civilizations. He said the Greek edition would serve as a new bridge for cultural exchange, helping more Greek readers understand China's governance philosophy, development path and domestic and foreign policies.

Former Greek foreign minister George Katrougalos elaborated on the people-centered development philosophy highlighted in the book, along with China's long-term strategic planning and its role as a contributor to global stability. He said the four major global initiatives proposed by Xi set out a vision of openness, development and dialogue grounded in multilateralism, providing a philosophical basis for building a community with a shared future for humanity.

Experts from both countries held discussions on topics including green development, technological innovation, mutual learning among civilizations, openness and cooperation, and the Belt and Road Initiative.

Xi Jinping: The Governance of China has been translated into 44 languages and distributed in more than 180 countries and regions, receiving wide recognition from international readers. 

Chinese Ambassador to Greece Fang Qiu speaks at a launch ceremony for the Greek edition of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" in Athens, Greece, Nov. 18, 2025. (Photo by Lefteris Partsalis/Xinhua)

Ioannis Tragakis, chairman of the Greece-China Friendship Group in the Greek parliament, attends a launch ceremony for the Greek edition of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" in Athens, Greece, Nov. 18, 2025. (Photo by Lefteris Partsalis/Xinhua)
Staff members transfer giant pandas upon their arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Nov. 18, 2025. Malaysia welcomed the arrival of the new pair of giant pandas, "Chen Xing" and "Xiao Yue," with the pair touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday. In May 2014, China and Malaysia launched their first round of international cooperation on giant panda conservation. This April, a joint statement signed by both countries announced their agreement to continue cooperative research on giant panda conservation, expressing hopes for further progress in the field. (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability of Malaysia/Handout via Xinhua)

KUALA LUMPUR, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia welcomed the arrival of a new pair of giant pandas, "Chen Xing" and "Xiao Yue," with the pair touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday.

The new pair were born in 2020. The male "Chen Xing" is described as robust and outgoing, while the female "Xiao Yue" is rounder and more docile.

The pair will be hosted at Zoo Negara, the country's national zoo, where they will undergo quarantine before being introduced to the Malaysian public.

In May 2014, China and Malaysia launched their first round of international cooperation on giant panda conservation. This April, a joint statement signed by both countries announced their agreement to continue cooperative research on giant panda conservation, expressing hopes for further progress in the field. 

Staff members transfer giant pandas upon their arrival at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Nov. 18, 2025. Malaysia welcomed the arrival of the new pair of giant pandas, "Chen Xing" and "Xiao Yue," with the pair touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday.

In May 2014, China and Malaysia launched their first round of international cooperation on giant panda conservation. This April, a joint statement signed by both countries announced their agreement to continue cooperative research on giant panda conservation, expressing hopes for further progress in the field. (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability of Malaysia/Handout via Xinhua)

Giant panda "Chen Xing" is seen at Kuala Lumpur International Airport in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Nov. 18, 2025. Malaysia welcomed the arrival of the new pair of giant pandas, "Chen Xing" and "Xiao Yue," with the pair touching down at Kuala Lumpur International Airport on Tuesday.

In May 2014, China and Malaysia launched their first round of international cooperation on giant panda conservation. This April, a joint statement signed by both countries announced their agreement to continue cooperative research on giant panda conservation, expressing hopes for further progress in the field. (Ministry of Natural Resources and Environmental Sustainability of Malaysia/Handout via Xinhua)
Shares in Mulberry Group sparked on Wednesday, after the British luxury brand said an "encouraging" first half had left it well placed for the critical festive trading season.

The leather goods specialist, which is seeking to turn itself around after a difficult period, said trading in six months to 27 September had been in line with expectations.

Group revenues fell 4% to 53.9m. On a like-for-like basis, retail store sales rose 4% in Mulberrys key markets of UK, Europe and Asia, but fell 14% in Asia Pacific.

However, gross profits were stable at 37.3m, supported by a cost-cutting programme, the closure of stores in China - where the wider luxury sector has struggled in recent years - and a focus on full-price goods.

The operating loss also narrowed notably, from 4.9m to 13.1m.

As at 0930 GMT, the stock was up 5% at 100p.

Andrea Baldo, chief executive, said: "This has been an encouraging first half. Were still early in the turnaround, but the foundations weve put in place are working and were starting to see that reflected in performance.

"Were strengthening our margin and improving our cash position through a greater focus on full-price sales and disciplined cost management, while our refreshed product offer and creative direction are reconnecting the brand with customers."

Looking to the second half, Mulberry - known for its high-end handbags and purses - flagged the launch of new product icons and said it was "well set" for the festive shopping season.

Baldo concluded: "While we remain mindful of the wider trading environment, current momentum gives us confidence as we enter the key festive trading period.

"Were focused on maintaining this progress and continuing to build a stronger, resilient business for the long term."

Mulberry spent much of 2024 fighting a takeover approach from Frasers Group, its second-largest shareholder, alongside falling sales and mounting losses.

However, its majority investor - Singapores wealthy Ong family - threw its weight behind Baldo, who was brought in to help turn the business around.

Mike Ashleys retail empire walked away from its attempts to take over the company in autumn 2024.
The White House has sent senior Pentagon officials to Kyiv in an attempt to restart talks aimed at bringing an end to the Russia's three-and-a-half-year war with Ukraine.

According to POLITICO, Army secretary Dan Driscoll, two four-star generals and other senior military leaders have been despatched to the Ukrainian capital to meet with the country's president Volodymyr Zelenskiy.

The Ukraine visit  the first by high-ranking US officials to Ukraine since February  is set to focus on reviving negotiations regarding a peace deal, though it is unclear whether Driscoll was sent to present a new proposal to Zelenskiy.

Driscoll will then be sent to Moscow to meet with Russian officials at a later date, according to media reports.

The president [Donald Trump] has been clear that it is time to stop the killing and make a deal to end the war," a White House official said.

The meetings come ahead of the Zelenskiy's planned trip to Turkey to talk with president Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

"We are preparing to reinvigorate negotiations, and we have developed solutions that we will propose to our partners. Doing everything possible to bring the end of the war closer is Ukraine's top priority," Zelenskiy said of his Turkish trip.
Bird Rock Bookshop, a "grandma-owned and -operated" children's bookstore, will host a grand opening celebration on November 15 at 5604 La Jolla Blvd. in La Jolla, Calif., the San Diego Union-Tribune reported. The store had its soft opening last month.

Owner Jodi Bratch said the store is meant for children and young adults, featuring an inventory that includes classic books alongside book-related gifts: "It's such a perfect age to set the stage for children to be lifelong readers. I feel like children's bookstores are kind of evergreen, where there's always going to be children reading--this is the hope. And also they're reading books and turning pages. It's a very tactile experience."

The bookshop's launch "comes roughly two years after Bratch moved from southwest Florida to La Jolla to spend time with her daughter and young granddaughter. With more time on her hands and a desire to connect more deeply with her new community in Bird Rock, Bratch got to work on establishing Bird Rock Bookshop," the Union-Tribune wrote.

She noted that the Bird Rock neighborhood seemed a proper place for a store: "I felt the community had space for it and it filled a need. There's a charm and an identity that Bird Rock has, and a little children's bookstore seemed like a good fit."

Noting that Bird Rock Bookshop is in a "nookish location," Bratch said she hopes it can become a fixture in the neighborhood. "I think it's tiny but mighty," she added. "That's going to be my goal for it--to have a good selection in such a tiny space."
Rs 2,600 crore LOIs signed at Bengaluru Tech Summit 2025, creating 3,500 jobs across semiconductors, EVs, and biotech.

Skill development boost with 90 women trained in semiconductor-VLSI and embedded design through Marvell partnership.

LEAP programs launched to support startups in Deeptech and tier-2 cities with grants up to Rs 1 crore.

The Karnataka government announced signing letters of intent (LOIs) worth Rs 2,600 crore with leading companies, including Drone Federation of India, Global HDI, and Eyestem Research, which are expected to generate 3,500 direct and indirect jobs. The announcement was made by IT-BT Minister Priyank Kharge on the sidelines of the Bengaluru Tech Summit (BTS) 2025.

These investments span key sectors such as semiconductors, electric vehicle (EV) batteries, and biotechnology. In a significant move toward skill development, the government also signed MoUs to train 90 women in semiconductor-VLSI design and embedded skills in partnership with global semiconductor firm Marvell.

KEONICS Chairman Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda elaborated that the LOI with Drone Federation of India, which is investing Rs 25-100 crore, will establish a drone testing facility at Chintamani. This facility will also facilitate other companies under the LOIs to leverage its infrastructure.

Global HDI plans to set up a multi-layer printed circuit board (PCB) manufacturing plant with an investment of Rs 1,500 crore. Eyestem Research will establish a cell therapy and R&D manufacturing facility with an investment of Rs 130 crore.

Local Economy Accelerator Program (LEAP), which includes schemes such as Elevate Next (Deeptech) and Elevate Beyond Bengaluru. LEAP, a Rs 1,000 crore initiative, aims to strengthen emerging clusters outside Bengaluru by providing infrastructure, funding, and sector-specific support. These initiatives are part of the states, which includes schemes such asand Elevate. LEAP, a Rs 1,000 crore initiative, aims to strengthen emerging clusters outside Bengaluru by providing infrastructure, funding, and sector-specific support.

The government further announced the rollout of Deeptech Elevate from 1 January 2026, which will provide grant-in-aid support to accelerate cutting-edge Deeptech innovations.

Meanwhile, Elevate Beyond Bengaluru, launching on 1 February 2026, will focus on fostering entrepreneurial growth in tier-2 and tier-3 cities. Under these programs, around 40 startups under Deeptech Elevate will receive grants ranging from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1 crore, while 50 startups under Elevate Beyond Bengaluru will be supported with grants of up to Rs 50 lakh.

Sharath Kumar Bache Gowda highlighted that these initiatives mark a significant push to create an inclusive and innovation-driven ecosystem across Karnataka.
Goran Gogic, shown here during a 2006 boxing match in Hamburg, Germany, is accused of helping organize a large-scale operation smuggling cocaine from South America to Europe and the United States. ((Photo by Friedemann Vogel/Bongarts/Getty Images)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Federal authorities arrested three Staten Island men Monday for allegedly attempting to bribe a juror in a major narcotics trafficking trial.

The scheme was reportedly an effort to secure a not guilty verdict for former heavyweight boxer Goran Gogic, whos accused of orchestrating a vast cocaine smuggling operation.

Here are 5 key takeaways from an original article by the Advance/SILive.com.

1. Three men face federal charges

Mustafa Fteja, 54; Valmir Krasniqi, 35, and Afrim Kupa, 52, were arrested and charged with corruptly attempting to bribe a juror and obstructing the administration of justice.

According to a criminal complaint, the men attempted to pay a juror $100,000 to deliver a not guilty verdict in the narcotics trial of former boxer Goran Gojic. The alleged scheme took place over four days, from Nov. 13 to Nov. 16, just before the trial was scheduled to start.

2. Recorded conversations, surveillance

The federal investigation relied heavily on surveillance, including phone records and recorded conversations. Phone records allegedly show that Krasniqi called Fteja shortly before Fteja contacted the juror.

In subsequent recorded conversations between Fteja and Krasniqi, the two allegedly discussed payment arrangements.

The FBI also recorded a meeting at Krasniqis home where all three defendants were present and allegedly discussed the $100,000 cash payment plan in both Albanian and English. An FBI linguist later translated the Albanian portions.

3. Massive international cocaine trafficking trial

The trial at the center of the bribery allegation involves former heavyweight boxer Goran Gojic, who is accused of helping organize an international cocaine trafficking ring.

Prosecutors claim the operation moved large quantities of cocaine from South America to Europe and the United States.

Authorities seized nearly 20,000 kilograms of cocaine from three shipments connected to the operation in 2019, highlighting the high-stakes nature of the trial that the defendants were allegedly trying to corrupt.

4. Escalating plan

The bribery attempt was not a one-time offer but an escalating plan that unfolded over several days. According to the complaint, Fteja first met with the juror and then met with them again two days later, increasing the payment offer to between $50,000 and $100,000.

Fteja allegedly indicated the money would come from other individuals. The scheme culminated in a meeting with all three defendants where they allegedly finalized the $100,000 cash payment plan.

5. Trial delayed, anonymous jury

The alleged jury tampering has directly impacted the judicial process for the narcotics case. As a result of the bribery attempt, Gojics trial has been postponed for 30 days.

In a significant move to protect the proceedings from further influence, prosecutors announced that a new, anonymous jury will be selected. Following the arrests, Fteja was released on a $150,000 bond, while Krasniqi and Kupa were ordered to be detained.

Mustafa Fteja, 54; Valmir Krasniqi, 35 and Afrim Kupa, 52, face charges of corruptly attempting to influence a juror and obstructing the administration of justice. (Advance/SILive.com | Joseph Ostapiuk)

Generative AI was used to produce an initial draft of this story. It was reviewed and edited by Advance/SILive.com staff.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  The federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration is investigating the death of a 35-year-old Staten Island man who was injured while on the job in Queens.

OSHA opened an inspection on Oct. 30, a spokesman for the agency said on Monday.

The employer is listed as Sunrise Office Services, Inc., according to the agencys website. The website lists an address for the company in St. George.

The agency has up to six months to complete the inspection.

According to a spokesperson for the FDNY, the incident unfolded on Oct. 23 at approximately 9:45 a.m. at Roy Wilkins Recreation Center at 177-01 Baisley Blvd. in Jamaica, Queens.

Vincenzo Fortunato of Princes Bay was unloading Masonite boards from a truck with his work crew when several of the boards fell on top of him, according to his wife Erin Pianforte.

The spokesperson for the Fire Department said Fortunato was rushed to Queens General Hospital. According to Pianforte, he died several days later on Oct. 28 as a result of his injuries.

Vinny sustained a fatal frontal lobe injury, Pianforte, 37, told the Advance/SILive.com.

No charges have been filed in connection with the incident.

A person who answered the phone at Sunrise Office Services, Inc., declined to comment.

Vincenzo Fortunato was a devoted and playful father, actively involved in playing sports, swimming, and spending quality time with his children, 10-year-old Isabella, bottom and 5-year-old Shawn, middle right, according to wife Erin Pianforte. Courtesy of Erin Pianforte

Family struggling with loss

Fortunato was a devoted and playful father, said Pianforte. He enjoyed playing sports, swimming and spending quality time with his kids, 10-year-old Isabella and 5-year-old Shawn. The couple was preparing to welcome a baby boy next April.

Pianforte said the baby will be named Vincenzo Fortunato III.

He was so happy. It was a surprise; he really wanted a boy and was overjoyed when we found out the gender, Pianforte recalled through tears. He was already so excited about the baby that he had started buying things for him.

A GoFundMe page has been established, with a goal of $45,000 to help support the childrens education and provide long-term stability.

The fundraiser can be found at gofundme.com/f/wsy8rq-support-erins-family-after-tragic-loss.
Cooperation with Russia to expand

China Daily) 08:19, November 19, 2025

Premier Li Qiang on Monday called for closer cooperation between China and Russia in investment, energy, agriculture and other fields, and expressed the hope that Moscow would provide more convenience for Chinese enterprises to invest and operate in Russia.

Li made the remarks during his talks with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Moscow. Li arrived in the Russian capital on Monday for the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

During their talks, Li recalled that he and Mishustin held the 30th regular meeting of the Chinese and Russian heads of government in Hangzhou, the capital of Zhejiang province, earlier this month, saying that the meeting comprehensively reviewed the progress of China-Russia cooperation in various fields and made plans for key cooperation in the next stage.

China stands ready to work with Russia to follow the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, further strengthen communication, and continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides to deliver more benefits to the two peoples, Li said.

He said that the Chinese market welcomes more high-quality agricultural and food products from Russia. Li also called on both countries to continue expanding cultural and people-to-people exchanges, strengthen cooperation in areas such as culture, education and films, and infuse more humanistic warmth into China-Russia relations.

Noting that the Tianjin Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization held from Aug 31 to Sept 1 achieved a series of fruitful results of milestone significance, the premier said that China is willing to maintain close coordination and collaboration with Russia to encourage all parties of the SCO to uphold the Shanghai Spirit and materialize the development blueprint outlined by leaders at an early date.

Li called for further advancing pragmatic cooperation to bolster the development momentum of all member states, continuously improving the institutional building of the SCO to enhance its influence in international affairs.

It is also important to stand in solidarity with the vast number of countries of the Global South to promote an equitable and orderly multipolar world as well as a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, he added.

Mishustin said that the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era is at an unprecedented high level.

Russia is willing to further intensify dialogue and exchanges with China at all levels, deepen cooperation in fields such as the economy and trade, energy, agriculture, cultural and people-to-people exchanges, create new growth drivers for cooperation, and continuously enhance good-neighborly friendship, he added.

Mishustin said that Russia is willing to create a favorable business environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Russia.

He expressed gratitude to China for its outstanding work during its presidency of the SCO, especially for the successful hosting of the Tianjin Summit.

Russia is willing to strengthen communication and coordination with China, enhance the institutional building of the SCO, and make greater contributions to promoting peace, development and prosperity in the region and the world, Mishustin said.

(Web editor: Zhang Kaiwei, Liang Jun)
WARSAW, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Poland will close Russia's consulate in Gdansk, the last Russian consulate in the country, Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski said Wednesday at a press conference.

Sikorski said that the closing of the consulate in the northern Polish city was not Poland's full response to what he called hostile actions by Russia. He said Poland had repeatedly warned Moscow that its diplomatic and consular presence would be further reduced if such activities continued.

The Russian Embassy in Warsaw will remain open. "We do not plan to sever diplomatic relations with Russia," he added.

An explosion that occurred last weekend on the Warsaw-Lublin railway was described as an act of sabotage by Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. He told the parliament on Tuesday that two Ukrainian men, acting on behalf of Russian intelligence, were responsible for the sabotage.

Such accusations against Russia are "completely baseless and unfounded," Russian news outlet RIA Novosti cited Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov as saying on Wednesday. 
Following more than a week of jury trial proceedings in state Supreme Court, St. George, manslaughter defendant Carlos Rivera was acquitted on the top charges. Steve White for the Advance/SILive.com

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. After just over a day of deliberations, jurors assigned to the Carlos Rivera manslaughter trial returned a verdict of not guilty to the top charges.

Rivera, 38, of Stapleton, was accused of killing a man known to him during a street fight on the afternoon of June 17, 2024. The incident unfolded on a commercial block in Stapleton, resulting in the death of 41-year-old Joel Badillo.

The jury, who heard the case in state Supreme Court, St. George, acquitted the defendant of first-degree manslaughter and second-degree criminal possession of a weapon. Had Rivera been found guilty of manslaughter, he was facing significant prison time due in part to multiple prior non-violent convictions.

A blood stain remained on the sidewalk following the fatal stabbing last year on a commercial block in Stapleton. (Staten Island Advance/Scott Axelrod)

The defendant was, however, found guilty of felony tampering with evidence, after he tossed his knife into a sewer at the crime scene. That count, given his prior record, carries a maximum sentence of two to four years in prison. He already has completed 17 months on Rikers Island since his arrest, which counts toward his upcoming sentence.

Justice Mario F. Mattei, who presided over the trial, revised the defendants bail in light of the verdict, while also considering Riveras criminal record and duty to return to court on the tampering charge. Mattei set bail at $2,500 cash, $5,000 bond, or 10% of $10,000 as a personal secured bond.

Justice Mario F. Mattei presided over the manslaughter trial in state Supreme Court, St. George. Mattei revised bail in light of the verdict Tuesday, while also considering the defendant's prior convictions and duty to return to court for sentencing. .(Advance/SILive.com)

As the sides argued over bail, Rivera wiped tears from his eyes. Several of his family members had attended the trial proceedings, and remained at the courthouse as the jury deliberated.

Key factors presented at trial

There were two key factors in the case.

The first was whether it was Riveras knife that ended up in the heart of Badillo, or whether Badillo unintentionally stabbed himself with his own knife as the two men fought.

The second was whether Rivera had armed himself and engaged with Badillo as an act of self-defense or aggression.

I realize this sounds a little crazy

Defense attorney Christina Paliogiannis presented photos of the two knives collected by NYPD at the scene, while proposing that Badillo might have stabbed himself in the fracas as he was raining down blows on the defendant.

She pointed to the autopsy report, which indicated a puncture wound of four to five inches, but no sign of bruising from the knifes handle, which is common in stabbings

Rivera was represented in the case by defense attorneys Jared Hirsch, left, and Christina Paliogiannis, right with the Legal-Aid Society. (Steve White for the Advance/SILive.com)

Badillos knife, the defense pointed out, did not have a prominent handle or hilt, while Riveras knife did.

I realize this sounds a little crazy, said Paliogiannis in stating the theory. But I want you to watch this moment.

At one point during the fight, which Paliogiannis presented to the jury as a freeze-framed image, it appeared Badillos own knife could have made contact with his torso.

Both knives used in the fight were recovered at the scene by responding police, but forensics were unable to clearly determine which knife entered Badillo, according to trial testimony.

The question isnt did he actually stab himself? said Paliogiannis.

The question you have to answer is, have they proven to you beyond all reasonable doubt that it was Carlos knife?

Use common sense: Prosecution

The prosecution, in countering that argument, also used a still image from the video.

In their image, Rivera is in a seated position on the street when he swings his knife up toward Badillo, appearing to make contact or nearly make contact with Badillos chest.

You can see it for yourself right here in the video, said Assistant District Attorney Arda Ozdinc. Look at it with your own eyes and use common sense.

During his questioning of a forensic pathologist on the witness stand, Ozdinc asked if there was any indication based on her examination of the body that the wound was self inflicted. She said there was not.

Self-defense or manslaughter?

Surveillance video showed a verbal altercation between the two men, followed by two physical altercations minutes apart.

In taking the witness stand on his own behalf, Rivera did not elaborate on what was said during the argument, but said he was shocked when Badillo drew a knife on him during the first dust-up.

I know his kids, he knew my kids. I was angry that someone I knew so long just disregarded our relationship, Rivera testified.

Rivera  who stands about 5 feet, 4 inches tall and weighs about 130 pounds  said he was trying to walk away from the first fight when he heard Badillo calling people and saying things like one way or another this ends today.

Police responded on June 17, 2024, to a report of a 41-year-old man stabbed to death near Broad and Gordon streets in Stapleton. Scott R. Axelrod

Rivera said whoever Badillo was calling was likely dangerous, based on what he said was Badillos involvement with gangs. And that he saw Badillo using Facetime to show someone what he was wearing.

Rivera said he didnt know where people were coming from, and he was scared if he ran toward his house nearby he would run into them. So, he felt attacking Badillo with a knife was the best way to end the threat.

Did Joel know where you lived? asked Paliogiannis.

Yes, replied Rivera.

Rivera was seen in the video approaching Badillo and swinging a knife at him. But he missed, and Badillo got the better of him. The video showed Badillo then standing over Rivera in the street, punching kicking and stabbing with his own knife. Rivera was on his back, swinging his knife wildly.

Badillo then backed off, walked slowly about 25 feet and collapsed in front of a deli near Broad and Gordon streets. The video showed Rivera holding a stab wound on his thigh as he approached Badillo.

I went to try to see what was wrong, said Rivera, as he turned his head away from the video showing Badillos collapse to the pavement.

When asked about the knife he was carrying that day, Rivera said he took it everywhere for protection because he lived in a dangerous neighborhood. We all carry knives for protection, myself included, he said.

Finally Paliogiannis asked what was going through his head during the altercation as he was in a seated position on the street.

I just wanted it to stop, said Rivera. I had plans that day, I just wanted to see my kids.

You chose to fight

In cross examining the defendant, Ozdinc pointed to a moment after the first physical exchange, when Rivera crossed back over the street and swung a knife at Badillo, rather than walking in a different direction.

So you chose to fight? questioned Ozdinc.

At this particular moment, yes, replied Rivera, who insisted it was the best choice to avoid being hunted down by Badillos friends or associates.

Ozdinc then froze a portion of the video as the second fight was unfolding. Would you say you were in an aggressive stance there? he asked.

Assistant District Attorney Arda Ozdinc delivered closing arguments Monday in the Carlos Rivera manslaughter trial. (Steve White for the Advance/SILive.com)

After a brief pause, Rivera replied, Yes.

And Joel is in a defensive stance? asked Ozdinc, who took a firm tone with the defendant throughout.

Yes, replied Rivera.

Were you mad you had just lost a fight? poked Ozdinc, referring to the first fight down the block.

It wasnt a fight, he stabbed me, said Rivera.

Once friends from similar backgrounds

Both Rivera and Badillo have roots in Puerto Rico, but spent much of their lives in and around Stapleton. Both have large, tight-knit families.

On Facebook, Badillos mother at one point posted that God would provide justice for her son. Her feed was flooded with photos of children and grandchildren.

Moments after the fatal street fight, as police arrived, Badillos adult son arrived to the scene distraught. Police had to hold him back from the crime scene.

Rivera, 38, also has children.

On the witness stand Friday, he said he assumed many of the parenting responsibilities, including parent-teacher conferences. He said he was working at the time in construction and as a mechanic.

Friendship complicated by drugs, gangs

Rivera said he first met Badillo several years ago, when they were both battling substance abuse and would use together.

In 2016, they were both convicted as part of a drug investigation on Staten Island dubbed Operation Hit the Town.

It was around that same time that Badillo and other co-defendants in the case were in a crowded holding cell, when they jumped a man and fractured his skull, according to Riveras testimony.

Rivera  also known as Shorty among friends and neighbors in Stapleton  said Badillo told him about the assault afterward, saying that in carrying out the act he was initiated into a gang.

They were trying to recruit me, recalled Rivera. Ive never been into gangs.

The two men had a falling out in 2022, which Rivera did not elaborate on. He testified that on the day of the stabbing, the disagreement was petty.

According to Rivera, he was walking with a friend that day on Broad Street, when the friend spotted Badillo and crossed the street to see him. Rivera claimed he was in a hurry and tried to pull their mutual friend away from the conversation, which angered Badillo.
ICE agents at Ocean Seafood Depot on Adams Street, Newark, New Jersey on Wednesday Nov. 19, 2025. John Jones | for NJ Advance Medi

More than two dozen federal agents, about six of them wearing FBI uniforms, were seen outside the Ocean Seafood Depot in Newark on Wednesday executing a search warrant, according to law enforcement.

Its the same site where a raid by the U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Officers occurred in January, just days after President Donald Trump was sworn into office and reiterated a campaign pledge to launch a mass deportation of undocumented immigrants.

An advocacy response group that was gathered across the street from the depot on Adams Street said the agents arrived at around 8 a.m. One of the members said about 50 workers from the depot were allowed out the building and given red wristband, indicating they were free to leave.

No detainees were seen being taken into custody outside the building and all the agents had departed by about 12:30 p.m.

Ocean Seafood Depot officials declined to comment outside the building.

Christine Cuttita, a regional spokesperson for ICE, characterized the operation as homeland security investigations conduction a search warrant.

Caetano Brandao, a worker at Ocean Seafood Depot said he arrived a little after 8 a.m. and they came in and questioned the workers.

Brandao, a naturalized citizen who lives in Newark, and has worked there for about six years cleaning fish, said he was given a red wristband and allowed to go outside.

He said about 50 workers were sent outside while 20 were detained and questioned inside.

About five SUVs were seen parked outside of the depot. The raid in January resulted in citations to three immigrants, including two who were given notices to appear at a hearing and a third who was placed in removal proceedings after overstaying a visa, officials said previously.

Terri Suess, a co-founder of a watchdog organization, Eyes on Ice, said agents carried out four cardboard boxes after the raid.

This is shocking to see armed, military police, she said. This was a shocking morning and a sad commentary on America.

Another advocate, Carlos Castaneda, an organizer with Cosecha, a nationwide immigrants rights group said he didnt know if anyone was taken.

Castaneda and a worker from the seafood depot attracted attention by getting into verbal argument across the street.

Castaneda said he approached the worker and some others asking if they were OK. Instead, he was met with a hostile response.

(The worker) said I voted for Donald Trump and Im glad whats going on now. Castaneda said.

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka condemned the actions taken earlier this year, saying it was done without a warrant and resulted in the temporary detention of U.S. Citizens, including a military veteran.

Barakas office did not respond to a request for comment on Wednesday.

The mayor was arrested in May while trying to tour Delaney Hall, an ICE detention center in his city. He was charged with trespassing but those charges were later dropped due to lack of evidence.

NJ Advance Media staff writer Jeff Goldman contributed to this report.
MetroPlusHealth staff were joined by local leaders pictured together at the ribbon-cutting, including CEO Dr. Talya Schwartz, Councilmember Frank Morano, Vanesa Limani, Staten Island borough director John Rinaudo, director of case management for Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, Dr. Ginny Mantello, Gregory Fernandez, senior vice president at Richmond University Medical Center, and Alexander Klein of NYC Health + Hospitals, Gotham Health Vanderbilt. Sydney Maldonado

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  MetroPlusHealth opened its second Staten Island resource center Tuesday in New Dorp, expanding access to affordable health coverage and wellness services for local residents.

The New Dorp site, located in The Boulevard shopping plaza at 2656 Hylan Blvd., follows MetroPlusHealths first location in Port Richmond and will provide insurance enrollment, medical coverage assistance and social and wellness services.

The office will also partner with agencies including the NYPD, SNAP, WIC and community groups to offer seven-days-a-week access to benefits and wellness resources many residents may not have known were available.

MetroPlusHealth staff were joined by local leaders at the ribbon-cutting, including CEO Dr. Talya Schwartz; Staten Island Councilmember Frank Morano; Vanesa Limani, Staten Island borough director; John Rinaudo, director of case management for Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis; and Dr. Ginny Mantello, a physician who works with MetroPlusHealth.

President & CEO of MetroPlusHealth Dr. Talya Schwartz speaking at the opening of the new community resource center Sydney Maldonado

Schwartz emphasized the organizations commitment to accessible care. We are here because we believe that access to care is a human right. Thats what you deserve and what we are here to deliver, Schwartz said. Healthcare does not start and end just with access; you also have to address other basic needs, and this is something MetroPlus doesnt just believe in, but invests in.

Hospital and community partners also attended to highlight their partnerships with MetroPlusHealth, including Gregory Fernandez, senior vice president at Richmond University Medical Center and Alexander Klein of NYC Health + Hospitals Gotham Health Vanderbilt, who spoke about providing on-site support and connecting residents to medical and wellness services.

Were not just here to celebrate an office opening, but were here because we recognize that this is something more than that. This is us all coming together and recognizing that shared vision we have promoting healthcare here on Staten Island, and this is an important part of that, Klein said.

Councilmember Frank Morano pictured speaking at the opening of the new MetroPlusHealth center. Sydney Maldonado

Councilmember Frank Morano highlighted the growing healthcare needs of the borough and praised MetroPlusHealth for addressing them. Over the last couple of decades, weve had a surging population and more and more needs for healthcare. I am so appreciative that MetroPlusHealth has been able, willing, and so effective at filling that gap, Morano said.

He also added that placing the new office in a central Staten Island location will make it easier for residents to access services without traveling a further distance.

MetroPlusHealth's New Dorp location provides free insurance enrollment assistance and connects residents to essential social services seven days a week. Sydney Maldonado

MetroPlusHealth offers 11 insurance products tailored to different demographics, including Medicaid and the Essential Plan. Staff can guide residents through the application process and connect them to other social services as needed.

MetroPlusHealth also highlighted its MetroPlusGold plan, tailored specifically for New York City employees and their families. The plan features a $0 monthly premium, no copays, and coverage for primary care, specialty care, telehealth, diagnostic tests, urgent care and more.

Individuals and families can enroll in several ways: they can make appointments in advance, walk into the New Dorp office, or get assistance over the phone or online.

The community office serves people of all ages, from children to seniors, and eligibility depends on factors such as income and household size. Residents are encouraged to bring any necessary documentation to help staff determine which plan best suits their needs.
Staten Island healthcare workers joined over 100 NYSNA members at City Hall to testify about hospital conditions and security concerns following a Mount Sinai active shooter incident on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

STATEN ISLAND, NY -- More than 100 nurses, including some Staten Islanders, gathered on the steps of City Hall to call for improved hospital staffing and patient protections as the healthcare system faces potential federal funding cuts.

The New York State Nurses Association held a rally at the city government building on Tuesday, Nov. 18, before members testified at a City Council oversight hearing on the state of nursing.

At the event, the union and its supporters addressed current conditions at the citys private hospitals and asked City Council members to support them in their fight for stronger safeguards for patient care. This rally comes as healthcare experts warn of significant cuts to federal healthcare funding under the Trump administration.

We are currently waging a battle in quality care on two fronts. The first one is against the federal administration and its attack on our most vulnerable patients and our health care funding, stated Staten Island resident Nancy Hagans, the president of NYSNA and nurse at Maimonides Medical Center. We have heard federal health care cuts will mean fewer insured patients and higher costs. We have all been speaking out to reverse the cuts and protect our most vulnerable patients. Maybe these hospitals are too busy expanding their empires, investing in AI and hiking executive pay and hospital prices. We see the disastrous consequences of inaction.

Staten Island healthcare workers joined over 100 NYSNA members at City Hall to testify about hospital conditions and security concerns following a Mount Sinai active shooter incident on Tuesday, Nov. 18. Advance/SILive | Nicolette Cavallaro

Nurses and union supporters also cited multiple concerns affecting patient care, including fear among some patients about coming to hospitals due to potential ICE raids.

Nurses are very concerned about access to care for vulnerable communities, including immigrants, trans, uninsured and underinsured patients, stated Michelle Jones, the secretary of NYSNA and a long-time nurse at Flushing Hospital Medical Center in Queens. We are already seeing fewer patients come to the hospital because of affordability and out of the fear of deportations. Patients are not seeking the necessary preventative care they need to keep them healthy, including vaccinations, cancer screening and follow-up care.

This event also follows an active shooter incident that occurred at Mount Sinai Hospital in Manhattan, which many of the nurses highlighted as a symptom of the numerous security concerns they say hospitals must address.

Just last week at Mount Sinai an active shooter was almost able to make good on his threats to shoot up the hospital, said Hagans. This is a hospital that has refused to increase safety and security measures that the nurses have demanded.

The rally also included members of the City Council, along with NYS AFL-CIO President Mario Cilento and NYC Central Labor Council Secretary-Treasurer Janella Hinds, who all called attention to the importance of nurses in the healthcare system.

I had a child 11 years ago, and I remember labor and delivery. It was a nurse that held my hand. The doctor came in last minute, Councilmember Carmen De La Rosa, a Democrat who represents parts Manhattan, recalled. If it wasnt for the nurse that was standing there calming my nerves, making sure my blood pressure wasnt spiking up, maybe I wouldnt be here today. So we owe all of you a debt of gratitude, and these hospital systems must invest in the people who are actually the backbone.

Lisa Yeno, a resident of Dongan Hills, has been a nurse for over 30 years and currently works at Richmond University Medical Center in West Brighton. She expressed her worry regarding the upcoming medical cuts, and how they would impact her patients.

Were relying a lot on funding from the city and the state, she said. We just want the city to know that RUMC is vital to Staten Island. Were in a socioeconomic area that is more deficient. We serve a big population on the North Shore, so we have to maintain the services for these people.
The sun rose over the Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk and Beach on the morning of Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. (Advance/SILIve.com | Jan Somma-Hammel)

A phone call from the borough president the other day brought some pleasant news.

Vito Fossella and I have something in common. He grew up a stones throw from the beginning of the boardwalk in South Beach. I grew up a stones throw from the end of the boardwalk in Ocean Breeze.

Flags at Freedom Circle in Midland Beach blow in the wind ahead of Tropical Storm Isaias on Tuesday, Aug. 4, 2020. (Staten Island Advance/Paul Liotta)

Before the boardwalk-walkers take me to task and say it ends at Miller Field in Midland Beach, it does not. The boardwalk ends at Seaview Avenue. A stone promenade anchored by Freedom Circle, built 30 years later, extends to Miller Field.

Vito is a bit younger than me. Quite a bit. So he didnt see the boardwalk in its heyday and into the early 60s.

But we both watched it deteriorate during New York Citys fiscal collapse in the 1970s.

It saw a renovation in the 1990s. More than 25 years ago. Well get into the renovation later. For now, the important news is that the boardwalk is deteriorating again. Money to fix it is scarce. The boards compete with every other park and playground on Staten Island.

Difference is, the boardwalk suffers the ravages of storms and salt off the Raritan Bay and Lower New York Harbor. Something that doesnt happen at Clove Lakes or Silver Lake Park. And its made of wood. Wood warps. Boards are popping all over the place, walkers and joggers navigating them regularly.

Raised boards like this is commonplace throughout the FDR Boardwalk in South Beach creating potentially hazardous conditions to patrons. Thursday, Sept. 4, 2025. (Advance/SILive.com | Jason Paderon) (Advance/SILive.com | Jason Paderon)

Its horrible, Grasmeres Phyllis S. told us. I have to walk with my head down because of all the nails and the lifted boards. Someone fell last week.

Ocean Breezes Sal knows all about that. The boards are getting worse, said Sal, who has walked the boards for two decades. My wife tripped and fell here last year. Her sunglasses broke and cut her eye.

The FDR Boardwalk along South and Midland Beaches continues to pose safety risks with uneven planks and exposed nails. (For the Advance/SILive.com | Amanda Faublas) For the Advance/SILive.com | Ama

So what was the BPs pleasant news?

Vito met with outgoing Mayor Eric Adams. He let the mayor know our boardwalk is on its way back to 1975. But he didnt go in alone. He went in with the fact that Coney Islands boardwalk has a dedicated repair fund  just for itself.

Thats what we need on Staten Island, Vito told the mayor. And the mayor agreed.

Theres a mechanism called the November Budget Modification, where things can be added to the massive city spending plan. Vitos plan would allocate $1 million in the first year and $650,000 annually thereafter to keep the boardwalk in safer, cleaner condition.

The mayor is on board. The stumbling block could be the City Council, whose members must OK it. We have only three Council members of 51, and two are Republicans in the Democratic-controlled body. So our three Council members might have their work cut out for them. Discussions are now underway.

Memo to the 51 NYC Council members: It would be tragic if the boardwalk falls into what it was in the 70s.

New York City was on the verge of bankruptcy then. Cops and teachers were being laid off. Maintaining our parks was not a priority.

Fires left their mark on Franklin D. Roosevelt Boardwalk. (Staten Island Advance) Staten Island Advance

Some of our bad neighbors had a field day at the boardwalk, and promenade. Some stole cars, drove them under the boardwalk and set them afire  destroying swaths of the boardwalk along with the cars. Others stole metal railings that ran along the promenade, from Seaview Avenue all the way to Miller Field, and sold them for scrap.

Then the lights went out on the boardwalk and promenade for the entire 2.5-mile length.

Thats when things got uglier. Drug-dealing, and male and female prostitution was rampant on the darkened East Shore waterfront, both on the boardwalk and in the parking lots.

Thats when the Advance got involved. Both Borough President Guy Molinari and his successor, BP Jim Molinaro, poured millions of city dollars into boardwalk renovations.

But with all due respect to both, it was the Staten Island Advance that sounded the alarm before BP Guy stepped up.

We continually hammered the Parks Department to fix the lights. We didnt know what was wrong with them, but did know they were on one day and off the next.

The Staten Island Parks Department commissioner then stonewalled us. Until he couldnt any longer.

We discovered two things: Thieves stole the copper wiring from the lights along the 2.5-mile stretch from South to Midland Beach. And the Parks Department did not maintain the lights. The Department of Transportation did.

Thats when Guy Molinari got involved.

The lights were rewired and life at the boardwalk got better and better. Today, when you stroll the boardwalk or promenade, youll see wire strung from pole to pole at the top -- keeping the copper, once run from pole to pole at the bottom, away from the greedy hands of thieves.

The FDR Boardwalk in South Beach before infusion of city funds in the 1980s, and after.

It was probably one of the most successful public/private partnerships on Staten Island. And it calls into question how much an independent newspaper should get involved with government.

Thats another discussion for another time.

For now, consider it for the good of Staten Island, which is our mission: To strengthen and empower the community we serve.

The city Council should consider doing the same.

Brian

Oh by the way: The boardwalk has a long history. Too long to tell in this space. Going back to the 1880s, South Beach was on its way to becoming another Coney island, with a vibrant amusement area, theaters, hotels, bathing pavilions and casinos. The same was happening in Midland Beach. Multiple fires destroyed much of the South Beach side, but rebuilding took place in the early 1900s. Fires again struck in the 1920s, again taking the boardwalk that was there. In 1930, the state put up $1 million to build a new boardwalk. The boardwalk we know today was built by the Works Progress Administration. The WPA was part of President Franklin D. Rosevelts New Deal, employing millions of Americans out of work. There are quite a few WPA projects on Staten Island, including wonderful murals in our own Borough Hall lobby, created through a WPA artists program. The boardwalk opened in 1935  it never made it all the way to Miller Field -- and was named the Franklin Delano Roosevelt Boardwalk, which I doubt many realize today. In the 1950s, the citys master builder Robert Moses set his sights on Staten Island, building a bridge  the Verrazaano  and an expressway connecting that bridge to the existing Goethals, and changing the East Shore landscape, ridding it of aging waterfront hotels and amusement rides and extending the boardwalk with a promenade to Miller Field, with parking lots along what is now Capodanno Boulevard. He instituted a 25-cent fee to park and a 10-cent fee it get on the beach. Both of which infuriated Staten Islanders and were yanked not long after. The FDR Boardwalks history is long. Its iconic. And it must be saved.
Mildred Josefson, an educator and artist who lived in Grasmere, died Oct. 14 at the age of 89. (Courtesy of the Josefson Family)

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Mildred Denes Josefson, a lifelong educator whose passion for the arts and family history shaped every chapter of her life, died Oct. 14 surrounded by her children. She was 89.

Born in Brooklyn to Erna and Michael Denes, Hungarian Jewish immigrants, Mildred was their only child. Her parents instilled in her a deep reverence for craft, culture, and discipline.

Her mother, Erna, had been a concert pianist in Hungary and continued teaching piano after immigrating to the United States, while her father, Michael, was a master watchmaker who crafted Marine chronometers for the U.S. government during World War II.

Lifelong passion for art

A gifted artist from a young age, Mildred painted in the Dutch Master tradition. As a teenager, she was offered a summer spot to study under noted artists Raphael and Moses Soyer in New England, an opportunity her protective parents declined.

Instead, Mildred attended the Brooklyn Academy of Art, laying the foundation for a lifelong artistic practice. Over the years, she studied with celebrated painters David Leffel and Frank Mason at Manhattans Art Students League.

Mildred also remained connected to Staten Islands ArtLab, where she was active in the 1970s and even returned to sketch this past summer.

Her early artistic pursuits were matched by a love of movement and performance. As a child, Mildred studied ballet with Boris Novikoff of the Metropolitan Opera Ballet and was recruited for the Mets childrens chorus.

Career and marriage

Mildred attended Lafayette High School, where she excelled academically and civically, serving as chief justice of the Student Court.

In 1957, she graduated from Brooklyn College with a double major in chemistry and art. That same year, she married a young lawyer, Jerome Josefson, whom she had met while the two were camp counselors. They were married for 57 years before Jeromes passing in 2014.

The couple moved to the Grasmere neighborhood of Staten Island in 1970, where they raised their three children, Howard, Deborah, and Michael.

When her husband became ill, Mildred stepped into the role the sole provider for their young children. During that demanding period, Mildred earned a master of science degree in environmental sciences from Richmond College, part of the College of Staten Island, Willowbrook.

A lifelong educator, Mildred taught high school chemistry in New York City public schools. She also briefly taught intermediate school on Staten Island and substituted at Susan Wagner High School before joining Lincoln High School in Brooklyn as an honors chemistry teacher, a position she held for many years. Known for her meticulous preparation, she spent hours crafting lessons and designing hands-on demonstrations to bring chemical principles to life for her students.

Community involvement

At home, Mildred was known for her warmth, hospitality, and cooking. She prepared beloved Shabbos dinners and delicious feasts for Passover, Sukkot, and Thanksgiving, welcoming family, friends, and neighbors to her table.

She remained active in community organizations, including Soroptimists International, Grasmeres Cameron Club and Hadassah Womens Organization for many years.

Mildred attended Temple Emanuel of Staten Island, where her husband once served as president, and the couple were early supporters of the Jewish Foundation School of Staten Island, receiving recognition for their contributions in the 1970s.

Deeply connected to her heritage, Mildred was the family historian. Though born in Brooklyn, her first language was Hungarian, and she grew up in a multigenerational household. She preserved and retold stories of her familys life in Hungary from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, ensuring that future generations would inherit that history.

After retiring, Mildred traveled extensively across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas, including expeditions to Kenya, South Africa, Borneo, and Madagascar with her daughter.

She visited her parents childhood homes in Hungary and, in 2014 and 2019, journeyed to Luxembourg with her children to honor her late husbands great uncle, recognized as the first American to die for the liberation of Luxembourg. She was welcomed by the Duke of Luxembourg.

Generosity was a defining thread in Mildreds life. She opened her home to relatives who survived the Holocaust, sponsoring her mothers first cousins granddaughter to live and study in the United States for eight years.

She was a dedicated supporter of numerous charitable organizations, including: City Harvest; the Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation; World Wildlife Fund; Food Bank for New York City; the Met Council; Magen David Adom; Meir Panim; UJA; MEMRI; and the Jewish National Fund.

Family members remembered Mildred as elegant, intelligent, and endlessly curious  a woman with impeccable taste, a dynamic personality, and a fierce love for her children.

She is survived by her three children, Howard, Deborah, and Michael Josefson.
Fort Tompkins is part of the Fort Wadsworth site, which is being eyed by ICE as a detention center. Staten Island Advance

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  After reports of ICE eyeing Fort Wadsworth as a makeshift detention site, Councilmember Kamillah Hanks penned an opposition letter to Department of Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem.

Pointing to the sites historic value and the years dedicated to its preservation by the National Park Service, Hanks implored Noem to reconsider the potential move.

It is one of the oldest continuously fortified military sites in the United States, Hanks wrote. The site includes irreplaceable military and architectural assets such as Battery Weed, Fort Tompkins, and multiple Endicott-era coastal defense structures that illustrate more than three centuries of American military history.

She continued: The sites infrastructure, purpose, and legal status are wholly incompatible with such a function. It is also concerning that local government was not consulted regarding this evaluation... Its history and public mission cannot be compromised.

The Department of Homeland Security didnt respond to an Advance/SILive.com request for comment about the situation.

News of the agencys interest in Fort Wadsworth was initially reported by the New York Times, after ICE officials visited the site last week to evaluate its viability.

ICE is sizing up the Coast Guard facility on the property in particular, the Times wrote.

The news banded local officials together in opposition, with Rep. Nicole Malliotakis saying, The site is not suitable to house migrants. Weve made this very clear, both publicly and privately, and we do not anticipate any such plans.

Borough President Vito Fossella is in concert with his colleagues.

This is not the first time that this issue has popped up. Although its federal property, we did look into it and nothing materialized, Fossella said last week. As of today, it seems like it may be in the same path, but we will stay on top of it.

The Advance/SILive.com reached out to the National Parks Service, the Coast Guard, and ICE for comment.

Both the National Park Service and the Coast Guard directed the Advance/SILive.com to reach out to ICE, but the agency did not respond to requests for comment.
H5N5 is a strain of avian influenza carried by wild birds such as ducks and geese. (AP Photo/Natasha Borzova)

Washington state health officials have confirmed the countrys first human case of H5N5  a strain of avian influenza carried by wild birds such as ducks and geese  in a Grays Harbor County resident hospitalized earlier this month.

The patient, an older adult with underlying health conditions, was admitted in early November with severe flu-like symptoms. He remains hospitalized.

Health officials say public risk remains low, but investigations into the source of exposure are ongoing. The individual kept a mixed backyard flock that had contact with wild birds, which authorities consider the most likely source of infection.

The Washington State Department of Health is working with local public health officials and the Washington State Department of Agriculture to conduct both human and animal health investigations. So far, disease experts say they have found no evidence of broader risk to the community.

The H5N1 strain of the virus is more common in the U.S. but still considered rare, researchers say.

Avian influenza viruses circulate naturally in wild aquatic birds and can spread to domestic poultry, often causing significant outbreaks. Human infections are uncommon and typically occur after close, unprotected contact with infected animals. In the United States, past cases of avian influenza have ranged from mild illness to severe disease, including one fatality.

The risk of avian influenza tends to rise in the fall and winter as migratory birds move through the region. Human-to-human transmission of avian influenza remains extremely rare and has never occurred in the U.S. Still, public health staff are monitoring anyone who had close contact with the patient.

Health officials urge people who handle birds or other animals to use protective gear, report sick or dead animals to state agencies, avoid contact with wildlife, and stay current on seasonal flu vaccination to reduce the risk of co-infection.
Staten Island's largest environmental group announced Tuesday, Nov. 18, a lawsuit against the state Department of Environmental Conservation over NESE pipeline water quality risks. This photo was taken on Wednesday, August 27, 2025. Jason Paderon

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Staten Islands largest environmental protection organization is among a coalition suing the state of New York over the significant risks to water quality posed by the Northeast Supply Enhancement pipeline.

The Staten Island group, Protectors of Pine Oak Woods, joins Food & Water Watch, Surfrider, and Sierra Club in the case announced Tuesday against the state Department of Environmental Conservation for approving the quality certification for the NESE pipeline.

The environmental concern is that the pipe would have to be embedded underneath the settled seabed, which would stir up decades worth of contaminated sand and other materials that have since laid dormant.

Earthjustice, a non-profit national leader in environmental law, is representing Protectors and NY/NJ Baykeeper.

On Nov. 7, the state DEC issued a Water Quality Certification, Excavation & Fill Permit and State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit for the NESE pipeline, which would include a 17.4-mile underwater segment through the Raritan and Lower New York bays, passing Staten Islands shores.

As governor, a top priority is making sure the lights and heat stay on for all New Yorkers as we face potential energy shortages downstate as soon as next summer. We need to govern in reality, Gov. Kathy Hochul said in a statement at the time, ensuring a continued commitment to renewables and nuclear power to ensure grid reliability and affordability.

Here, aquatic wildlife is shown flourishing on Staten Island in September 2025. Today, Staten Island's largest environmental organization announced a lawsuit against the state Department of Conservation over NESE pipeline water quality risks. (Advance/SILive.com | JJason Paderon)

Previously denied

The DEC has previously denied the exact same pipeline for failing to demonstrate compliance with state water quality standards, the groups stressed through their attorneys in announcing the lawsuit.

If built, the pipeline would tear up the harbor floor, destroy marine habitats, and suspend mercury, copper, PCBs and other toxins in the water, says Jose Ramirez-Garofalo, an ecologist and president of Protectors.

The pipeline would harm sensitive shellfish beds and undercut the billions of dollars New York has invested to improve water quality in the harbor, the group of ecologists say.

Theres also going to be impacts to our shoreline communities, people that fish, people that live on the shore Ramirez-Garofalo said.

Hochul is likely caving to pressure from President Donald Trump to approve the pipeline, Ramirez-Garofalo said.

Theres no reason for New York state to turn around on this project otherwise he said. Its been 20 years of improved water quality that has brought whales, dolphins, fish and bald eagles to the New York City area. Its shocking and disheartening that the state would jeopardize decades of progress on that front, when we were previously the leaders on that front."

The controversial project has been fervently opposed by the boroughs elected officials, and failed in 2018, 2019 and 2020 to achieve the Clean Water Acts Section 401 Water Quality Certification.

Paying for the pipeline will come in the form of a 3.5% boost to National Grid bills across New York City and Long Island, despite several areas not receiving any of the energy that will be generated from it, opponents say.

Staten Island is one of those areas that will not benefit from the gas transferred in the pipeline, though a National Grid spokesperson previously promised $2.5 billion in energy savings over the next 15 years for downstate New York residents, including Staten Islanders.

Here, veteran boater Guy Buono is shown aboard his vessel in August 2025, saying he fears the negative effects on the aquatic wildlife from the NESE pipeline. Today, Staten Island's largest environmental organization announced a lawsuit against the state DEC over the risks to the environment posed by the pipeline. Jason Paderon

Earthjustice and the National Resource Defense Council filed comments to DEC in August 2025 asserting that the NESE gas pipeline project does not comply with New Yorks water quality standards and, therefore, cannot be approved under section 401 of the Clean Water Act.

DECs approval is a 180 degree reversal  in 2020 it denied the exact same application," said Susan Kraham, managing attorney for Earthjustices Northeast Region. The project hasnt changed, the impacts havent changed  the only thing that has changed is DECs decision, which it reversed with no reasonable explanation.

Earthjustice represents more than 1,000 public-interest clients for free, including major environmental groups and local communities.

In 2024, Earthjustice successfully enforced New Yorks Climate Leadership and Community Protection Act against cryptomining companies, protected Florida wetlands under the Endangered Species Act, stopped a massive gas pipeline in the Northeast, and won safeguards for grizzly bears and other wildlife from trapping in Idaho, according to its website.

Cynical politics

The initial denial of this project in 2020 was in the spirit of our states long history of environmental protection, but their arbitrary reversal is in the spirit of cynical politics, said Ramirez-Garofalo.

Borough President Vito Fossella, who has been among the proposed pipelines harshest critics, issued a statement on Nov. 7 reiterating his opposition to the pipeline and saying he is dismayed,' by the decision.

When the work begins to build this pipeline, miles of sediment will be disturbed, the environment of the bay will suffer, and Staten Island commercial businesses, boaters and fishermen will be made to suffer, Fossella said in the statement. At this juncture we must ask, what, if anything, has changed from when this project was first proposed?

On Nov. 11, more than 200 people gathered in front of Gov. Kathy Hochuls New York City office to denounce the green lighting of the pipeline.

In its 2020 failure to pass the standards needed to obtain the certification, the state Department of Environmental Conservation wrote the following:

DEC has determined construction of the NESE pipeline project would not meet New York states rigorous water quality standards. Construction of the proposed project would result in significant water quality impacts resulting from the re-suspension of sediments and other contaminants, including mercury and copper, and would disturb sensitive habitats, including shellfish beds and other bottom-dwelling marine life, clearly demonstrating that a default mixing zone is not appropriate for this project. New York is not prepared to sacrifice the states water quality for a project that is not only environmentally harmful, but also unnecessary to meet New Yorks energy needs.

Playing politics with clean water endangers all New Yorkers, said Roger Downs, conservation director of the Sierra Club Atlantic Chapter. By approving the 401 Water Quality Certificate, the NYSDEC has undercut the same agency scientists that determined the NESE pipeline would cause unacceptable degradation of water quality and marine life to New York waters just a few years ago.

Ramirez-Garofalo said the suit aims to stop the pipeline one final time, and he stressed that Staten Islanders should write to their elected officials, specifically Hochul, and urge her and her administration to swiftly reconsider their decision on the NESE pipeline.

We will let this play out in court,' he said. We will be diligent and we will continue to fight as long as we can.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Rev. Nora Teasley, a Staten Islander who dedicated her life to helping others through her work and in her capacity as an assistant pastor at Fellowship Baptist Church, has died. She was 81.

The beloved church and community leader, who also brought prayer into the community by visiting people too frail to venture to Sunday services, leaves a legacy of giving, faith and family.

Shes adored by everyone. People speak extremely highly of her. She always went out of her way to check in with her parishioners, said her granddaughter Eleanora Sullivan. If they didnt have what they needed at the time, she would give them whatever resources she could obtain to assist them.

She was always focused on giving to others, but Rev. Teasley also had the strength to overcome obstacles in her own life, including health challenges and hardships.

My mother was a survivor, her daughter Felicia Sullivan said.

Rev. Nora Teasley as a girl, with family. Family Photo

Rev. Teasley was born and raised in Gainesville, Georgia, the oldest of two girls born to Thurmond and Ella Mae McMullen. She moved to New York City, settling first in the Bronx, then in Harlem, and finally on Staten Island.

She loved Staten Island, said Eleanora Sullivan. As she got older, I wanted to bring her closer to me in the Bronx, and she just refused. Staten Island was her home.

On Staten Island, Rev. Teasley began attending services at Fellowship Baptist Church in Mariners Harbor, where she would become an integral part of the ministry.

Rev. Nora Teasley looks at old photos of the church on The Fellowship Baptist Church's 50th anniversary in 2013. Jan Somma-Hammel | Advance/SILive.com

Felicia Sullivan said becoming a reverend was part of her mothers purpose.

She got saved in that church and decided she wanted to be on the ministry board, Eleanora Sullivan said. She proceeded to move forward in the ministry, becoming an evangelist, first, then going to a reverend, and then, of course, an assistant pastor.

Rev. Teasley gave sermons every third Sunday of the month. Her sermons were about bringing people to Christ, Felicia Sullivan said.

On social media, Fellowship Baptist Churchs senior pastor, Rev. Alfredo Archibald, wrote of Rev. Teasley, Our hearts are so heavy, but we take comfort in knowing she is now resting peacefully with our Lord and Savior. She was an extraordinary servant leader, the matriarch of our church, often encouraging, instructing and comforting us in her own humble way. She was a true woman of God, filled with wisdom, grace and strength who extended love and kindness to so many, including my family.

Although her presence will be deeply missed, the legacy she leaves behind is living, not gone. Every soul she lifted, every heartfelt prayer she prayed, every genuine act of compassion she offered continues to bear so much fruit.

A spirit of giving

Rev. Teasley gave of herself freely and with her whole heart.

She was dedicated to fostering children. One of the boys she fostered, Lawrence, arrived three days after his birth. Rev. Teasley took care of him and nurtured him. She ended up adopting him. As he grew up and struggled with ADHD and learning disabilities, Rev. Teasley made sure he got the services he needed.

She was instrumental in the person he has become today, said Felicia Sullivan.

Rev. Teasley was also dedicated to those in the community struggling.

Rev. Nora Teasley, second from the right, was one of six women honored in 1997 as "Women Who Work Hard and Make a Difference." Frank Johns | Advance/SILive.com

On the first Sunday of the month, she ventured out to serve parishioners who couldnt make it to the church. She traveled to give Communion to the sick and shut in, Eleanora Sullivan said.

She was always donating something, whether it be clothes, whether it be financial, or food. She would create food pantries at the church or her building in Mariners Harbor.

For 14 years, Rev. Teasley worked at Chase Manhattan Bank, first as a teller and then as an account specialist, but later in her career she pursued work that was also centered around helping people. She worked at a daycare, a senior center, and United Cerebral Palsy.

Rev. Nora Teasley, second from the right, was honored in 1996 by the Trowel Club of Silver Lake Lodge at its African-American Achievement Awards Luncheon. Irving Silverstein | Advance/SILive.com

She received numerous recognitions over the years for her decades of dedicated community service.

A long-time resident at the Mariners Harbor Houses, she was a tenant leader in the 1990s, including as a neighborhood patrol leader and the communitys selected representative at state Neighborhood Based Alliance meetings.

Rev. Teasley also pursued a higher education when she was in her 50s and 60s. She obtained a bachelors degree from BMCC and went on to earn her masters degree at College of Staten Island.

Rev. Nora Teasley pictured at the College of Staten island Commencement where she was awarded a master's degree, June 2 , 2011. Jan Somma-Hammel | Advance/SILive.com

Walk by faith and not by sight

Rev. Teasley bravely faced a myriad of health issues: cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, aneurysms, Covid, and pneumonia. Through it all, she relied on her faith, teaching her parishioners through example.

She showed them how to walk by faith and not by sight, Felicia Sullivan said. That means even though youre going through something, God will bring you through it. Regardless of what the situation was, how hard it was, or what she was going through, she still believed that God was going to bring her through.

Rev. Nora Teasley with loved ones. Family Photo

She was a firecracker, Eleanora Sullivan said. She was very direct with her communication, very headstrong. She had a great sense of humor. Her heart was pure. The type of love that she had for people, she may not have verbally expressed it, but she would show you in so many ways.

Rev. Nora Teasley with loved ones. Family Photo

Survivors and services

Rev. Teasley is survived by her sister, Kathleen McMullen; daughters, Fannie Sullivan and Felicia Sullivan and son, Lawrence Teasley; grandchildren, Eleanora Sullivan, Jason Sullivan, Ronald Johnson Jr., Kaitlyn Roberts and Lorenzo Teasley; and great grandchildren Issac Sullivan, Nora Sullivan and Nora-Lee Sullivan.

Visitation will be Sunday, Nov. 23, 3-5 p.m. at Fellowship Baptist Church, 3036 Richmond Terr. The funeral service will follow from 5 - 8 p.m.
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Riyadh will not normalize ties with Israel without "a clear path" to Palestinian statehood, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman Al Saud said during a visit to the White House on Tuesday.

He also pledged a 1-trillion-U.S.-dollar investment in the United States, and sought a defense pact and big purchases of F-35 jets and advanced AI chips.

PALESTINIAN STATEHOOD

"We want to be part of the Abraham Accords, but we also want to be sure that we secure a clear path to a two-state solution," the prince said in a joint press conference with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House.

He said Saudi Arabia wants Israelis and Palestinians to "live in peace," and normalizing relations must be tied to credible progress toward Palestinian statehood.

Trump, who brokered the original Abraham Accords in his first term, has repeatedly said he hopes Saudi Arabia will join the U.S.-backed framework soon.

Analysts said a breakthrough in the near future remains unlikely, given Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's continued rejection of a Palestinian state and Israel's national elections next year.

INVESTMENT PLEDGE

At the White House, Mohammed pledged to raise Saudi Arabia's planned investments in the United States to 1 trillion dollars, up from the 600 billion dollars announced during Trump's trip to Riyadh in May.

"Today and tomorrow, we announced that we are going to increase that 600 billion to 1 trillion dollars for investment, real investment and real opportunity," he said. The new figure roughly equals the size of Saudi Arabia's entire sovereign wealth fund.

The prince added that the kingdom plans to spend about 50 billion dollars on semiconductors in the short term, saying Saudi Arabia has "a huge demand for unique computing power" and "AI is critical for us" to keep the Saudi economy growing.

According to the New York Times, the new pledge is unlikely to materialize anytime soon, considering Saudi Arabia's current cash crunch due to lower oil prices and already heavy domestic spending on a number of megaprojects.

Bloomberg reported that as part of a U.S.-Saudi artificial intelligence agreement, the Trump administration is preparing to approve the export of a significant number of high-end AI chips to Saudi AI firm Humain, whose chief executive reportedly said last month that the company aims to deploy as many as 400,000 AI chips by 2030.

Trump said on Tuesday he believed a U.S.-Saudi nuclear deal, which Riyadh has long hoped for, could happen in the future.

"I could see that happening. It's not urgent," Trump told reporters.

DEFENSE DEAL

After their public remarks, Trump and the crown prince held private talks. U.S. media said their discussions ranged from the civil war in Sudan to the fragile cease-fire in Gaza, but the core agenda was a bilateral defense arrangement. During the visit, Trump designated Saudi Arabia a major non-NATO ally of the United States.

It is widely expected that during the prince's visit, Washington and Riyadh will sign a security agreement that does not require congressional approval. Under the proposed terms, the United States would commit to defend Saudi Arabia through diplomatic, economic and, if necessary, military measures, without obligating the kingdom to protect U.S. assets.

One day ahead of the prince's White House visit, Trump announced that he plans to sell F-35 stealth fighters to Saudi Arabia, the first such sale to a Middle East country other than Israel.

On Tuesday, together with Mohammed, Trump said both Saudi Arabia and Israel are "close allies" of the United States and both "should have the most advanced fighter jets."

According to U.S. media, U.S. officials said Israeli counterparts have privately urged Washington to link the F-35 sale to progress on the Saudi-Israel normalization, though they have not publicly opposed the deal.

On Wednesday, a high-profile bilateral investment forum will be held in Washington. U.S. media said the two sides may sign various agreements on artificial intelligence, health care, infrastructure, energy and financial services.

For Trump, facing domestic political pressure tied to the Epstein scandal and other challenges, the meeting offered a chance to revive his image as a global dealmaker, local analysts said.

And for Mohammed, it was an opportunity to reintroduce himself in Washington as an indispensable partner in a turbulent region, as well as a potential mediator on issues ranging from Gaza to dialogue with Iran, they said. 
New NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch speaks during her swearing in ceremony at police headquarters in New York, Monday, Nov. 25, 2024. (AP Photo/Seth Wenig) AP

STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani announced Wednesday that one high-profile position will remain filled by its current occupant.

New York City Police Commissioner Jessica S. Tisch will continue her work under Mamdani, despite being originally selected by outgoing Mayor Eric Adams.

Tisch took up the post in November 2024 as the 48th commissioner of the NYPD.

I look forward to working with Commissioner Jessica Tisch to deliver genuine public safety in New York City. I have admired her work cracking down on corruption in the upper echelons of the police department, driving down crime in New York City, and standing up for New Yorkers in the face of authoritarianism, Mamdani said in a written statement. Together, we will deliver a city where rank-and-file police officers and the communities they serve alike are safe, represented, and proud to call New York their home.

As listed in the statement, this is what Tisch accomplished in her tenure thus far:

The fewest shooting incidents and shooting victims in recorded history over the first ten months of the year.

Murders down nearly 20% citywide year-to-date.

More than 4,800 illegal guns removed from the citys streets in 2025.

Reductions in six of the seven major crime categories.

Citywide index crime down across patrol precincts, NYCHA developments, and the subway system.

The four safest months in transit in 15 years  with July, August, September, and October marking record safety underground outside the pandemic years.

She served in different city agencies outside of the NYPD over her 18-year-long career, including the Department of Sanitation and the Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications where she served in top positions.

The NYPD is where her career began, according to the statement, when she entered the city workforce in the departments counterterrorism bureau in 2008.

Thanks to the men and women of the NYPD, the strategies we deployed this year have delivered historic reductions in crime, Tisch said. Ive spoken to Mayor-elect Mamdani several times, and Im ready to serve with honor as his Police Commissioner. Thats because he and I share many of the same public safety goals for New York City: lowering crime, making communities safer, rooting out corruption, and giving our officers the tools, support, and resources they need to carry out their noble work.
Premier Jacinta Allan said she wanted to make housing fairer and get millennials into homes. Loading Newly-minted opposition leader Jess Wilson has indicated she plans to make housing one of her core policy priorities. The Real Estate Institute of Victoria (REIV) had previously given conditional support to disclosure of reserve prices following the Bidding Blind investigations analysis of 26,000 auctions which found more than half sold above the top of the advertised range. However, the idea is fiercely opposed by some in the industry.

Ahead of Thursdays announcement, the REIVs new chief executive Toby Balazs said focusing on a single issue, reserve prices, would not be the right approach and that a full package of reforms needed to be considered. The REIV is in the final stages of a working group developing its own blueprint for price guides. The government has been involved in these discussions. We have been working on suitable solutions to strike that balance between greater price transparency, whilst also protecting a vendors right to maximise or achieve the best possible price, Balazs said. This announcement is an overcorrection to something that were working through. It needs a more considered approach.

Balazs said the REIV also had questions about how the proposed new laws would impact private sales without a fixed sale date, and that collaboration with the sector was critical. A government spokesperson said that it had consulted the REIV during the development of the reforms and would continue to work with industry during the consultation period, which will commence next year. Buyers frustrated with the current system often acknowledge that there are sometimes runaway auctions, where homes sell well above expectations. However, they say that this doesnt account for cases where properties are not placed on the market during an auction once bidding reached the top end of the advertised range. Clovelle Car says too much time is wasted under the current system. Credit: Eddie Jim Currently, owners are not required to disclose or set a reserve before the day of the auction. Dozens of people told this masthead that they had watched homes pass in at auction, despite the price guide being exceeded, sometimes by hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Prahran woman Clovelle Car, 35, attended an auction of a townhouse listed with a price guide of $1.2 million to $1.32 million earlier this year. It passed in $40,000 above the top end of the guide, at $1.36 million, as bidding stalled and the vendors reserve still had not been reached. It eventually sold for $1,367,500. Car said underquoting was not just a waste of peoples time and money, but also came at an opportunity cost. If people are taking longer to purchase property, theres a higher risk that theyre going to be locked out of the market, she said. Thursdays announcement is the most substantial of a string of proposed reforms recently announced to address underquoting in Victoria and NSW.

The Allan government earlier this month unveiled stricter guidelines for the selection of comparable properties used to justify agents price guides after reports agents have been deliberately picking inferior properties. Last week the NSW Minns government announced it was considering reforms modelled on Victorias existing system, including mandatory price guides and a statement of information offered to buyers backing the estimated sales price claims. Staikos said requiring vendors to reveal their reserve price at least seven days before an auction or fixed-date sale gave them time to make an informed decision on what they were willing to accept for their property. He said it also gives prospective buyers a full week to consider whether they want to pursue the property, or to decide whether they can actually afford it.

Real estate agents would need to update all marketing material to reflect the reserve price and stop using any previous advertising that does not contain the reserve price. Staikos said the states underquoting laws introduced in 2017 were the strongest in Australia, and its underquoting taskforce had been a success. However, he said he was always open to further changes, including after the proposed new laws come into force. I believe that everything should always be on the table, because we need to continue to improve My job as Minister for Consumer Affairs is to achieve fairness and equity for all Victorians, and theres something inherently unfair about underquoting. Other reforms examined as part of the Bidding Blind series have included heftier penalties, stronger enforcement and vendor-funded building inspection reports.
Dr Munjed Al Muderis had barely settled into his new Florida home, complete with a grotto and $US1.7 million ($2.6 million) price tag, before landing himself in court  again.

According to a US charge sheet obtained by CBD, the controversial orthopaedic surgeon was pulled over by police while allegedly driving over the speed limit in his brand-new grey Porsche in mid-October.

Surgeon Munjed Al Muderis at the Federal Court last year. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos

He was caught allegedly travelling 69mph in a 40mph zone (thats about 110km/h in a 60km/h zone). But he also picked up a charge for driving unlicensed after presenting an expired Australian licence to police.

After the doctor explained he had lived and worked in Florida since September, according to documents, he pulled out something even more remarkable.
The objections are relevant to whether registration should be refused. The commission says there is no limit on the matters it may consider in making its decision. NSW Premier Chris Minns has said the state electoral commission has the highest barriers to entry to new political parties of any jurisdiction in the country. At the federal level, a non-parliamentary party  a party without a sitting MP or senator  needs at least 1500 members. Theres also a ban on obscene names and logos. But it is a relatively permissive regime. Registration not required Orr said it was important to remember that you dont have to register a political party to run in elections in Australia.

You can be avowed Nazis ... and you can hand out pamphlets. All that registration does is get your name and logo on the ballot paper, he said. The National Socialist Network protesters outside NSW Parliament House. Credit: Flavio Brancaleone That is valuable to small parties; they dont have the same money to advertise and staff polling booths. You can understand why they would want to get that kind of prominence at the actual voting stations. On the other hand, Orr said appearing as an independent on the ballot had a certain cachet and might appeal to voters who were unsupportive of political parties generally. He said candidates who ran as independents but were linked to a broader group could use social media and other networks to get out the word that ... Im a member of this organisation.

But University of NSW Professor Rosalind Dixon, a constitutional law expert, said that we still live in a world in which political parties are the major players in our democracy, notwithstanding the success of some independents. Loading Unlike Orr, Dixon has called for an urgent revisiting of existing laws to give electoral commissions explicit power to ban parties espousing racial hate and vilification as founding policies and values. What one sees if you study this issue in the broad sweep of global history is you only get a narrow window to prevent [this], Dixon said. Lets hope this goes away, and this is moot  but faced with a credible Nazi-style party, or anything that resembles it  youve got to set up systems in advance that allow for it before it becomes a big threat. [If] we wait, it could be too late.

Can of worms Orr said the question of banning political parties, as is possible in Germany under changes to the constitution post-World War II, opens a can of worms. The German system involves a court process. We are not post-war Nazi Germany; were not Turkey [with] serious Islamist forces; were not Singapore, Orr said. We are a society where we have compulsory voting and a relatively stable political system. Once you start banning groups, youve got to say: well, how do we define who gets banned? You either have whack-a-mole  or you try to craft a general definition. I dont think we want to be just changing electoral laws to get at the one group. The Australian equivalent involved the Menzies government, whose attempt to ban the Communist Party in 1950 was ultimately deemed unconstitutional by the High Court. A referendum to change the constitution also failed.

Dixon said it would not be principled for legislation to target a particular entity. The criteria for prohibiting registration of a political party would need to be defined very tightly to avoid the law being excessively broad and restricting political contest, she said. Dixon envisaged a system where the decision was made initially by the electoral commission, applying legislative criteria, with very broad provision for review by a court. In her view, parties should be banned if, and only if, their formal policy platform or demonstrated pattern of activity threatens to undermine the minimum core of democracy. What is a member? Orr said one area of the law that might be tightened was the definition of a member of a political party for the purposes of the state and federal thresholds on membership numbers required for registration.

Loading He doubted the neo-Nazi group would have anywhere near the 1500 members required federally for registration, but he noted the definition of member was quite loose. You dont have to pay a membership fee, for instance. Basically, the [Clive] Palmer party has something more like a big email list, Orr said. But even if they did register, Orr did not believe they would garner anywhere near 4 per cent of first preference votes, meaning theyre never going to get any public funding. The time required for registration is also an issue. The next NSW election is in March 2027, and the next federal poll is in 2028.
Australian food standards must be reviewed to limit the intake of dangerous forever chemicals, and subsidised blood tests and cancer screenings should be made available to the public, a Senate inquiry has recommended.

The inquiry into per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals, also known as PFAS, called for a national biomonitoring program to measure chemical exposure, with a particular focus on assessing the health effects of PFAS on children and pregnant women over time.

Eileen McLeod and her daughter Jade Sturgeon. Jade and her sister have both had brain cancer, which is potentially linked to the PFAS contamination of Wreck Bay. Credit: Rhett Wyman

The science is clear: PFAS are toxic and linked to immune, reproductive and cancer risks, said Senator Lidia Thorpe, the chair of the cross-party Senate committee.

People are getting sick but the problem is still being minimised  that has to stop. These chemicals are the asbestos of the 21st century.
But Campbell said the thought of removing his physical presence at the council-owned museum had not crossed his mind, even since the allegations came to light. Everything that he was involved in is terrible, and now we dont like the thought of being connected to it at all, he said. But weve got much more important things that we had been thinking about  how we upgrade our airport, how we get the state government to build us a new hospital, or how we recruit enough police and doctors. Campbell said he did not want to spend ratepayers money on removing or replacing the plaque, but was open to raising the issue at a future council workshop to see if anyone was worried.

It might be one of the biggest stories on the news cycle at the moment, but to people on the ground in Cloncurry or Julia Creek or Winton, theres still more important things that we turn our mind to, he said. Loading But if the museums planned renovations to mark the RFDSs centenary in 2028 were to interfere with the plaque, Campbell said the council wouldnt be putting in lights that the original building was opened by Mountbatten-Windsor and Sarah Ferguson. Australian Republican Movement Queensland convenor Isaac McSwan said he hoped the residents of Cloncurry would get the opportunity to decide whether they maintain a link with Mountbatten-Windsor. I think the local community should have a say whether a plaque for someone whos kind of disgraced, and potentially has done some very bad things, should actually still be in their community, he said.

Australian Monarchist League Queensland branch secretary Alexander Voltz agreed with his republican counterpart that it should be left to the community to decide. However, I would question what there is to be gained by removing it, he said. Prince Andrew with Virginia Roberts Giuffre (centre) in 2001 and Epsteins then personal assistant Ghislaine Maxwell. History cannot be undone, and the erasure of history more often than not prolongs problems rather than solving them. If we were to remove every plaque opened by a disreputable politician, we should have no plaques left.

Local federal MP Bob Katter was in lock-step with the Cloncurry mayor, saying there were bigger issues facing Australians including housing, the cost of living and not being able to feel safe in their homes and near their northern Australian rivers. I believe most Australians would not be even contemplating spending money changing plaques when they are wondering how to house, feed, clothe and educate their children, he said. Aint spending any time on it: Bob Katter. Credit: Cameron Laird Most know I believe an Australian should be our head of state, but as the media like to keep repeating, I aint spending any time on it. We have more important matters at stake right now. In Melbourne, residents of Prince Andrew Avenue in the northern suburb of Lalor have asked their local council about changing the name of their street.

In 2014, the Mountbatten-Windsor was named in US court papers in which Roberts Giuffre alleged Epstein trafficked her to the then-prince at least three times and paid her $US15,000 to have sex with him. A disastrous appearance on BBC Newsnight in November 2019 followed, in which Andrew denied ever meeting Roberts Giuffre, and said he had not had any contact with Epstein since December 2010. That claim was contradicted by a 2011 email that came to light last month. It would seem we are in this together and will have to rise above it, he wrote to Epstein. Otherwise keep in close touch and well play some more soon!!!! Roberts Giuffre lodged a civil claim for sexual assault in August 2021, and a US judge rejected Andrews attempt to have the case thrown out.
State and territory governments seeking billions in federal health funding have emerged from an emergency midweek meeting intent on pushing the Commonwealth to cough up the promised cash.

Queensland Premier David Crisafulli said the meeting with other heads of state  running for 45 minutes on Wednesday morning  had been very fruitful.

Were taking this forward, and theres a consensus position to make sure we do that, well do it in a respectful but in a forceful way, he said.

Premier David Crisafulli said the Commonwealth had a responsibility to deliver promised hospital funding and rescue long-stay patients stranded in beds. Credit: Catherine Strohfeldt

The negotiations concern hospital funding pledged to state and territory governments in 2023 by the Commonwealth, which would cover hospital running fees, and allow states to divert their own resources into dedicated aged and disability care centres.
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese foreign ministry spokesperson Mao Ning on Wednesday reiterated that China never interferes in other countries' internal affairs and has no interest in the so-called intelligence of the UK.

Mao's remarks came after MI5's warning to British politicians on Tuesday about two LinkedIn accounts that it accused of being operated on behalf of the Chinese security authorities.

"China has stated its position more than once," Mao told a daily press briefing. "China never interferes in other countries' internal affairs and has absolutely no interest in the so-called 'intelligence' of the UK Parliament."

"Time to stop those phantom allegations and the false projection," she added. 
One of the countrys top business leaders says no Australian motorist should have to wonder whether their money is helping bankroll Vladimir Putins assault on Ukraine.

November 24, 2025

by Nick O'Malley and Matthew Knott
The Herald today begins Blood Oil, our series showing how oil imported to Australia is helping Russian President Vladimir Putin pursue his evil war on Ukraine. Australian motorists, through no fault of their own, are inadvertently aiding the bloodshed.

Of equal concern, our retirement savings may also be funding Russias war effort, with some of the countrys biggest superannuation funds accused of investing in South-East Asian companies and ports distributing the tainted Russian oil.

Australia is helping to fund Vladimir Putins war machine.

Australia banned the import of Russian crude in early 2022 when Ukraine was invaded, but a loophole is allowing the import of oil products of Russian origin if they have been refined in a third country. Russia and the big oil companies have scrambled to find a way around these measures by laundering the oil through refineries in India, Malaysia, Singapore and China.

Some refineries have started to read the room and look elsewhere for oil. Our Europe correspondent David Crowe reports that Reliance Industries, the largest Indian supplier of fuel to Australia, has vowed to stop using Russian cargoes to produce petrol and diesel for our market after the global backlash. We will see if the promise is delivered.
Australia has ditched its bid to host the United Nations COP global climate conference, ceding rights to the prestigious event to Turkey after a three-year contest on the proviso that Pacific nations will still play a key role.

Under an unprecedented arrangement, Australias Climate Change Minister Chris Bowen will lead negotiations at the event and Turkey will hold the COP presidency as the host, while the Pacific will host a pre-COP gathering intended to lure pledges for a fund to help the region build its climate change resilience.

Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen speaks at COP30 in Belem, Brazil. Credit: AP

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese played up the deal as outstanding, while Bowen, who has for years been leading Australias effort to host the event in South Australia, promised Pacific nations would still play a key role at the conference that will be held in the coastal city of Antalya.

I know some people would be disappointed in that outcome, Bowen said at a five-minute press conference after news of the deal broke, but he argued they would have been more disappointed if the event had defaulted to the German city of Bonn, with no special role carved out for Pacific leaders.
There have been rumours, anecdotes and opinions swirling in the Macquarie Street bear pit this week as the NSW Liberals grapple with a leadership crisis. And then there was the intervention of Libertarian MP John Ruddick on Tuesday night, in a category of its own.

Parliament has risen so I was heading out but heard a hullabaloo in the office of an old Liberal Party mate  so popped my head in and found myself in a Liberal leadership boiler room, Ruddick posted on X alongside what appeared to be a scanned tally of MPs voting intentions in a showdown between leadership aspirants Kellie Sloane and Alister Henskens. Headed NSW Liberal Leadership Ballot  Voting Assessment Table, the list showed both candidates with 15 votes, with three uncommitted.

Fake news, chimed in Chris Rath, a Liberal frontbencher and moderate leader.

Alister Henskens and Kellie Sloane are both touted as challengers to incumbent Mark Speakman. Credit: Nathan Perri

The post is considered an inaccurate reflection of MPs voting intentions (Rath, one of Sloanes biggest supporters, was counted as a vote for Henskens), but it touched on the ridiculousness of the Liberals leadership debacle.
Loading Our premier is a woman and unless another internecine convulsion grips the Liberal Party between now and next November, our premier after the next election will be a woman. The treasurer is a woman and the attorney general is a woman. The leader of the Greens is a woman. Women have resided in the governors mansion for the past 10 years. When Jacinta Allan sits around the cabinet table with her other ministers, two out of three people in the room are women. Such is the female domination of Victorian politics  and standardised choice of parliamentary hairstyles  the 2026 election has already been dubbed by one party insider as the Battle of the Bobs. Julia Gillard, the only woman to serve as Australian prime minister and now the chair of the Global Institute for Womens Leadership, last year reflected on the additional pressure that comes with being the first woman to do anything of note in public life.

For the first woman who gets to a new position of power, theres this unspoken but very deeply held underlying question, she said. The question is, can she do the job? Once youve had several women do the job, I think that question falls away. It is clear that women can do the job but for the first woman, theres this extra burden. Julia Gillard says the first woman in a job carries an additional burden. Credit: James Brickwood In global politics, this burden is currently weighing most heavily in Japan, where Sanae Takaichi, the first woman to lead the socially conservative Liberal Democratic Party, last month became her countrys first female prime minister. Takaichi leads a national parliament where only one in six MPs are women and a patriarchal society which still requires married couples to share the same surname. As an aside, her first husband took hers.

Takaichi is an intriguing political figure who nominates the Iron Lady as her political hero and Iron Maiden as one of her favourite bands. Her socially conservative views, which include the value of traditional family roles for women, has in the minds of womens rights advocates put as asterisk next to her historic ascension to power in Japan. But as the first woman to lead a national government, any misjudgments she makes and difficulties she runs into will inevitably be analysed through the prism Gillard talks about. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis ascension to power is seen as a qualified advance for womens rights in Japan. Credit: Getty Images Michelle Obama delivered a blunt assessment of American politics and society this month when she remarked on the prospects of a woman becoming US president. Sadly, we aint ready, she said. Jess Wilson, for reasons that have nothing to do with her sex, is a different kind of Liberal leader. She is only 35 years old and has spent just three years in parliament. Across a flurry of radio and TV interviews on Wednesday, her introductory pitch to votes could be distilled into a simple message: Im a Millennial and Im here to win the next election.

But it is Wilsons sex, rather than her generation, which invites a different sort of scrutiny. A confession. During Wilsons first press conference as opposition leader, I couldnt help but observe and take detailed notes about her shoes until an angry voice on my shoulder  lets call it my feminine side  angrily pointed out that Id never taken much of an interest in Brad Battins boots. Jess Wilson takes questions at her first press conference after being elected leader of the Victorian Liberal Party. Credit: Jason South In my defence, Your Honour, I would submit that we can learn things about a woman politician from her choice of shoes that we cant from the ubiquitous RMs of male parliamentarians. In Wilsons case, her blue suede slingbacks  adorned with a slightly punkish buckle and studs  was the only break from the customary, pantsuit uniform that gave an inkling of personality. Her brand of her shoes, Bared Footwear, is well known among busy women for offering orthopaedic support without compromising on style. This suggests there is a practical streak to Wilson and a willingness to spend long days on her feet, if that is what it takes, to prosecute her case.
A major battle dividing the electric vehicle sector in Victoria has been exposed, as a state parliamentary inquiry considers how to build the charging network required to keep the next generation of cars on the road and who should foot the bill.

The Victorian inquiry into the electricity supply needed for the EV network is currently considering who should own and operate publicly available pole-mounted chargers across the state, assessing the rate at which public chargers are being installed and what role the companies who own the states poles and wires must play.

Australias first power pole-mounted EV charger in Merewether, NSW. Credit: Facebook

Another key aspect being hotly debated is how to pay for the expanding network. Though publicly available pole-mounted chargers could soon become one of the most common ways to charge EVs outside the home, both sides warn that higher bills for customers and the availability of chargers are at stake.

One suggestion being considered by the inquiry is to slug consumers with higher energy bills, even if they do not drive an EV.
He has become infamous on the court for his outbursts, ferocity and often antagonistic nature, and now Daniil Medvedev is bracing to rile up Brisbane tennis fans.

The Russian former world No.1 has been revealed as the latest addition to the 2026 Brisbane International card, in what should test his grand slam credentials following a frustrating year.

Medvedev has endured a harrowing 2025 season in tenniss biggest tournaments, suffering three first-round exits, with his best showing a second-round defeat in Melbourne this January.

Daniil Medvedev cuts a dejected figure after his US Open defeat. Credit: Getty Images

Such performances culminated in a $A65,000 fine at the US Open for unsportsmanlike conduct and racquet abuse, during his defeat to Benjamin Bonzi.
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Travel newsCruises Asian cruise companies are offering fresh alternatives for Aussies Brian Johnston November 19, 2025  4:14pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

This year Australian cruise specialist Cruise Traveller was appointed the representative of new premium Japanese line Mitsui Ocean Cruises, created when it acquired two retired Seabourn ships. The company hopes to tap into the huge interest in Japan among Australians. The 458-guest Mitsui Ocean Fuji sails itineraries that cover most Japanese regions as well as Taiwan and South Korea. Mitsui Ocean Sakura will launch in late 2026. Mitsui Ocean Fuji dining. Its an interesting move. Japans other modest cruise lines are aimed at Japanese passengers. Similarly, South Koreas Eastern Cruise, which launched last December, relies on the domestic market. Several other Asian cruise lines, hitherto unknown internationally, are making bold moves and, while they wont suit everyone, offer curious alternatives to mainstream cruise lines.

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Saudi-owned Aroya Cruises launched its first (repurposed) ship Aroya in December 2024 and plans to add two more. At first it operated Red Sea cruises and focused on customers from Saudi Arabia, the Gulf states, Egypt and Jordan. Yet in mid-2025 Aroya homeported in Istanbul for a Mediterranean season and took marketing aim at a wider range of international guests. Its distinctive Arabian design and opportunity to puff on a shisha are refreshing pluses; its ban on alcohol, pork and indecent dress might not be for everyone. There are other Asian cruise lines you probably havent heard about. Malaysian company StarDream Cruises operates ships out of Singapore under two brands  Star Cruises and Dream Cruises  on itineraries to South-East Asia, Taiwan, Japan and South Korea. Indias first cruise line Jalesh was scuttled by COVID-19, but its chief executive went on to head up Cordelia Cruises, launched in 2021 with a single ship, a repurposed Royal Caribbean vessel now called Empress. Cordelia Cruises.

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Cordelia has already hosted 500,000 Indian cruisers, acquired two more ships from Norwegian Cruise Line that were rebranded as Cordelia Sun and Cordelia Sky, and extended itineraries beyond the domestic into South-East Asia and Sri Lanka. Related Article Cruises Cruise lines are launching epic trips to Antarctica from Australia and NZ But China is the nation to particularly watch. True, cruising there is in its infancy, with outfits such as Astro Ocean Cruises running an old P&O ship, strangely renamed Piano Land, on short cruises to Japan and South Korea. But then theres Adora Cruises, a joint venture with Carnival Corporation, which saw the first entirely China-built cruise ship Adora Magic City sail out in early 2024 to great success. It takes domestic passengers year-round out of Shanghai on cruises to China, Japan, South Korea and the Russian Far East. A second ship, Adora Flora City, will follow soon. Id bet that some Asian cruise lines wont be relying on domestic passengers or repurposed ships for much longer. Some will become international brands to challenge the status quo. Certainly, China is a fast learner. Huaxia International Cruises has a joint venture with Viking Cruises under which it operates chic ship Viking Yi Dun, which takes international English-speaking guests on dedicated China itineraries. Lets see whats next.

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Ocean cruises Brian Johnston seemed destined to become a travel writer: he is an Irishman born in Nigeria and raised in Switzerland, who has lived in Britain and China and now calls Australia home.
London: Britains MI5 spy agency has warned politicians about Chinese agents seeking to exploit them to extract government secrets, heightening security concerns amid broader friction with Beijing.

The alert named two recruitment agents as fronts for the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) and told MPs to be on guard against approaches that would lay the groundwork for gaining classified information for a foreign power.

Photos taken from the LinkedIn profiles of Amanda Qiu, the chief executive of BR-YR Executive Search (left), and Shirly Shen, co-founder of the Internship Union. Credit: LinkedIn

MI5 has issued this Alert because the activity is targeted and widespread, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, told MPs in a letter to pass on the new warning.

The alert comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer tries to balance economic ties and security tensions in Britains relationship with China, while facing weeks of accusations that he was doing too little to counter Chinese espionage.
LHASA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China's second Qinghai-Tibet Plateau scientific expedition has yielded significant practical outcomes, with its top 10 application achievements officially released on Wednesday in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region.

Led by Yao Tandong, an academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, the achievements span critical areas including ecological conservation, disaster prevention, resource exploration, carbon accounting, traffic safety, and border area development.

Notable results include scientific support for legislation on plateau ecological protection, establishment of a platform for Earth observation and early warning, and innovative technologies for disaster prevention and control in permafrost regions, aiding major infrastructure projects like the Sichuan-Xizang Railway and expressways.

The plateau is currently exhibiting a trend of warming, wetting and "greening" that amplifies both regional and global climate impacts, Yao noted. It was also found that the water supply capacity of the "Asian Water Tower" has significantly risen, with runoff projections showing increases of up to 49 percent by the end of the century, crucial for water security for billions.

Since its launch in August 2017, the second expedition has mobilized over 3,000 research teams and more than 30,000 personnel, conducting comprehensive surveys across the entire plateau region. 
Under pressure, EU to scale back digital rules



Brussels, Belgium, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The EU will unveil plans on Wednesday to overhaul its AI and data privacy rules after coming under pressure from European and US companies.

The proposals are part of the bloc's push to cut red tape to drive greater economic growth and help European businesses catch up with American and Chinese rivals -- and reduce dependence on foreign tech giants.

EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen will present the plans on Wednesday alongside the justice commissioner in charge of data protection, Michael McGrath.

Brussels has dismissed claims that its push to "simplify" its digital rules -- deeply unpopular in the United States -- are the result of pressure from US President Donald Trump's administration.

For many EU states, the concern is that the focus on regulation has come at the expense of innovation -- although Brussels insists it remains committed to protecting European citizens' rights.

Berlin hosted a Franco-German summit on Tuesday focused on propelling the bloc to lead in the AI race during which France's Emmanuel Macron said Europe does not want to be a "vassal" dependent on US and Chinese tech companies.

Once proud of the "Brussels effect" -- referring to the influence many EU laws had on other jurisdictions around the world -- European lawmakers and rights defenders fear the EU appears to be withdrawing from being Big Tech's watchdog.

The EU executive has its eye on changes to its landmark data protection rules and the AI law that only entered into force last year.

There could be one proposal in Wednesday's package that would bring joy to nearly all Europeans: Brussels wants to tackle the annoying cookie banners that demand users' consent for tracking on websites.



- Crumbling cookie banners -



Based on draft documents that could still change and EU officials, Brussels plans to:

- redefine personal data and how companies can use it, for example allowing firms to process such data to train AI models "for purposes of a legitimate interest", but rights defenders have warned this could downgrade users' privacy

- a one-year pause on implementing many provisions on high-risk AI, for example, models that can pose dangers to safety, health or citizens' fundamental rights -- a move that will please American and European firms.

Instead of taking effect next year, the provisions would apply from 2027.

Dozens of Europe's biggest companies, including France's Airbus and Germany's Lufthansa and Mercedes-Benz, had called for a pause in July on the AI law which they warn risks stifling innovation.

Brussels has insisted European users' data privacy will be protected.



- 'Complex' rules -



One lawmaker from EU chief Ursula von der Leyen's conservative EPP grouping supported the push to simplify the digital rules.

"Europe's problem is in the excessive complexity and inconsistency of the rules we already have. Laws built in silos, overlapping obligations, and uneven enforcement create uncertainty for businesses and fracture the single market," MEP Eva Maydell told AFP.

But von der Leyen could face a difficult road ahead as the changes will need the approval of both the EU parliament and member states.

Her camp's main coalition partners have already expressed concern.

In letters sent to the European Commission last week, socialist EU lawmakers said they oppose any delay to the AI law, while the centrists warned they would stand firm against any changes that put privacy at risk.

raz/jxb

Airbus Group

Lufthansa
Press Release from Business Wire: SymphonyAI



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



PALO ALTO, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - SymphonyAI , a global leader in Vertical AI product platforms, has been selected to participate in the UK's Financial Conduct Authority's (FCA) Supercharged AI Sandbox , a new initiative enabling firms to safely develop and test advanced AI technologies using NVIDIA (NVDA) accelerated computing within a supervised regulatory environment.

SymphonyAI Financial Services was selected following a competitive application process that evaluated proposed use cases for innovation potential, technical feasibility, and regulatory impact.

Running from September 2025 to January 2026, the Sandbox offers a secure, structured environment for experimentation on next-generation AI use cases. SymphonyAI is developing an AI agent concept powered by small language models and reinforcement learning, designed to advance the intelligence and autonomy of financial services agents. If successful, the innovations developed in the Sandbox will be incorporated into SymphonyAI's portfolio of intelligent financial services agents, further enhancing how financial institutions accelerate risk detection, improve compliance, and reduce investigation time.

"SymphonyAI has long been at the forefront of AI innovation in regulated industries," said Jason Shane, Head of Product, Strategy and Innovation, Financial Services, SymphonyAI. "Our participation in the FCA's sandbox programme underscores our leadership in Financial Services AI and our commitment to advancing responsible, explainable innovation. By incorporating these next-generation learnings directly into our AI agents, we're giving customers the fastest, safest way to access the most advanced AI capabilities available, ensuring they stay ahead in risk management, compliance, and operational performance."

Through its participation, SymphonyAI aims to:

-- Incubate a new AI innovation to benefit the financial crime risk and compliance community;

-- Accelerate the integration of next-generation AI agent capabilities, combining generative models, reinforcement learning, and domain-trained models, into our Sensa Risk Intelligence platform and broader Financial Services portfolio;

-- Collaborate with the FCA and industry peers to establish trusted and explainable AI innovation(s), that improve(s) the accuracy of outcomes and can securely scale in highly regulated financial services environments.

The 12-week program will culminate in showcase days on 28-29 January 2026 in London, where participants will present their innovations to regulators, financial institutions, academia, consultancies, and government representatives.

About the FCA's Supercharged Sandbox

For more information about the FCA's Supercharged Sandbox, please visit: www.fca.org.uk/firms/innovation/ai-lab

SymphonyAI Participation Timeline

-- 30 September 2025: Virtual kickoff and bootcamp

-- 30 September 2025 - 9 January 2026: Tech sprint / development phase

-- 28-29 January 2026: Showcase days in London

About SymphonyAI

SymphonyAI delivers Vertical AI product platforms that help enterprises solve their most complex, high-value challenges - from stopping financial crime to improving store -performance and boosting manufacturing efficiency. Trusted by more than 2,000 enterprise customers worldwide, including 200 of the top financial institutions, the top 25 CPG companies, and many of the world's largest grocers and industrial manufacturers, SymphonyAI provides domain-trained applications and pre-built agents that are ready to work on day one. Learn more at https://www.symphonyai.com/.







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Press Release from Business Wire: Aqara



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



NEW YORK, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - Aqara, a global leader and pioneer in IoT, today announces the availability of its Radiator Thermostat W600, first unveiled at IFA 2025. Boasting smart features like convenient temperature control, automated climate regulation, and seamless interoperability across Matter ecosystems via Thread/Zigbee protocol, the W600 transforms traditional radiators into intelligent, energy-efficient heating systems that not only enhance comfort but also help reduce energy bills.

Designed for sustainable living, the Radiator Thermostat W600 delivers energy savings by minimizing heating in unoccupied areas. Instead of heating the whole home, users can schedule temperature adjustments for individual rooms, with up to 7 time periods per day, aligning with daily routines. Furthermore, these thermostatic radiator valves (TRV) can regulate indoor temperature based on environmental and behavioral triggers like room occupancy and geofencing, allowing for a heating system that adapts to real-time usage and occupant behavior. For example, they can preheat the living room as the user returns home from work and pause heating when the room is unoccupied late at night. Users can even pair the W600 thermostats with contact sensors so that the radiators pause heating when a window is left open, further cutting energy waste.

The W600 ensures optimal comfort with precise climate control, offering temperature adjustment in increments of +-0.5C. Users can easily set temperatures for each room by grouping multiple radiators for synchronized control. And temperature adjustment can be managed easily via mobile apps, virtual assistants (Alexa, Google Assistant/Gemini, Siri), or paired Aqara devices like the Climate Sensor W100 and Panel Hub S1 Plus.* For enhanced comfort, the thermostat can be paired with an external Aqara temperature sensor, such as the Climate Sensor W100 or Presence Multi-Sensor FP300, to regulate heating based on a more accurate room temperature reading, as the built-in sensor can be affected by its proximity to the radiator. In addition, the W600 is ultra-quiet and operates below 30 dB, ensuring a peaceful night's sleep without disturbance.

Incorporating both Thread and Zigbee protocols, the Radiator Thermostat W600 offers flexible and future-proof connectivity. In its default Thread mode, the thermostat is natively compatible with Matter, allowing integration with major platforms like Alexa, Apple Home, Google Home, Home Assistant, Homey, and SmartThings - without requiring a proprietary hub. In the alternative Zigbee mode, it pairs with an Aqara Zigbee hub and unlocks advanced features within the Aqara Home app, including smart schedules, multi-device grouping, remote control with a paired Aqara device, and heating regulation based on a paired Aqara temperature sensor.

Compared to its predecessor, the W600 features broader compatibility with common European radiator valves, supporting M30*1.5mm thread connection and providing adapters for RA, RAV, RAVL, Caleffi, Giacomini, and M28*1.5mm valves. Its flippable LED display ensures clear visibility from any angle, allowing both horizontal and vertical installations. Built for durable use, the W600 offers up to 2 years of battery life with 2 AA batteries, doubling that of its predecessor.**

"With the Radiator Thermostat W600, Floor Heating Thermostat W500, and Climate Sensor W100, each supporting Thread/Zigbee dual protocol, Aqara has introduced a next-gen HVAC control lineup for the European market, seamlessly integrating with various heating systems and smart home platforms," said Cathy You, Senior Vice President of Global Business and Strategy at Aqara. "This flexibility empowers our customers to personalize and future-proof their smart heating systems, creating a more comfortable and energy-efficient home."

The Radiator Thermostat W600 is now available for purchase through Aqara's official website, authorized retailers, and major e-commerce platforms such as Amazon (France, Germany, Italy, Netherlands, Poland, Spain, UK).

For more information on the new TRV, please visit the Aqara website.

-0- *T * Remote control via a paired Panel Hub S1 Plus may not be available by the Thermostat Radiator W600 launch.** Battery life may vary depending on the usage. The 2-year battery life is calculated based on the assumption of typical use: around 8 months of active operation per year under the Thread mode.*T









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Press Release from Business Wire: Wasabi Technologies



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



BOSTON, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - Wasabi Technologies , the Hot Cloud Storage company, expanded further into artificial intelligence with the unveiling of Wasabi Fire, a high-performance storage class that supports AI workloads, available beginning in early 2026. Wasabi has also opened a new storage region in San Jose, Calif., as part of its relationship with IBM Cloud. The milestones reinforce Wasabi's push to expand its role in AI infrastructure as demand for scalable, high-performance and cost-efficient cloud storage accelerates.

"Object storage is the backbone of AI, but customers shouldn't have to choose between speed and cost," said David Friend, co-founder and CEO of Wasabi Technologies. "With Wasabi Fire, we're delivering NVMe performance at disruptive prices, allowing organizations to cost-effectively store the critical data needed to train AI."

Wasabi Storage Built for the AI Era

AI development spend has centered on GPUs, but the rapid growth of data lakes has made storage a critical cost driver. Many providers only offer expensive high-performance options, forcing customers to overspend. Wasabi disrupted that model with its flagship HDD-based Hot Cloud Storage, delivering versatile, cost-predictable storage for active workloads. Wasabi Fire will extend the platform with NVMe, SSD-based performance purpose-built for compute-intensive AI and ML training, real-time inference, high-frequency data logging, and media pipelines. Priced at $19.99/terabyte/month with no egress or hidden charges, Wasabi Fire gives customers hyperscale-level performance and durability at a fraction of the cost, enabling GPUs to stay productive and helping organizations get the full return on their AI investments.

The new AI-ready San Jose region, Wasabi's 16th worldwide, is now operational in the heart of Silicon Valley, one of the world's leading AI hubs. The Wasabi Fire offering is co-located with IBM infrastructure and built to enable customers to have ultra-high speed storage to drive more complex workloads while addressing latency and bottlenecks for AI training and inference. Organizations can maximize GPU utilization, speed up model development, scale AI workloads and control storage costs. The result is an optimized AI infrastructure stack balancing performance, efficiency, and affordability.

"We're excited for Wasabi to expand into Silicon Valley with the IBM Cloud San Jose data center," said Alan Peacock, General Manager of IBM Cloud. "Wasabi Fire on the IBM Cloud is designed to give clients the benefits of IBM's secured enterprise-grade infrastructure."

Wasabi now has over three exabytes of data under management, underscoring the scale and reliability of its services. Industry analysts see Wasabi's trajectory as part of a broader shift in AI infrastructure.

"Wasabi's momentum reflects a clear demand for simple, predictable cloud storage," said Dave McCarthy, research vice president at IDC. "By adding a new storage class and expanding into Silicon Valley, Wasabi positions itself as a storage provider aligned to the full lifecycle of AI development while maintaining the simplicity that has defined its growth to date."

For more information, visit wasabi.com.

About Wasabi Technologies

Recognized as one of the technology industry's fastest growing companies, Wasabi is on a mission to store the world's data by making cloud storage affordable, predictable and secure. With Wasabi, visionary companies gain the freedom to use their data whenever they like without being hit with unpredictable fees or vendor lock-in. Instead, they're free to build best-of-breed solutions with the industry's fastest-growing ecosystem of independent cloud application partners. Customers and partners all over the world trust Wasabi to help them put their data to work so they can unlock their full potential. Visit wasabi.com to learn more.







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Press Release from Business Wire: Quectel Wireless Solutions



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



BILBAO, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - Quectel Wireless Solutions, an end-to-end global IoT solutions provider, has announced it is attending the Enlit 2025 event in Bilbao, Spain on 18-20 November 2025 and will be at Stand 1.G86. Quectel is attending to showcase how its comprehensive range of modules, antennas and services are poised to assist continued massive uptake of smart meters and assist industry moves from first to second-generation devices.

With deployments of smart meters, comprised of electricity, water and gas meters, exceeding 1.06 billion at the end of 2023 and set to continue in all regions, according to IoT Analytics, Quectel is seeing growth across all meter types and expansion of meter-based use cases. Smart electricity meters are being deployed in developing markets for the first time and mature markets are accelerating deployments of second-generation smart meters to help users optimize consumption and manage their own power generation via two-way metering communications.

Growth is being experienced across all meter types. Berg Insight has reported that the installed base of water utility advanced metering infrastructure (AMI) endpoints in Europe and North America is set to double during the 2024-2030 period. In Europe, the firm has also revealed that the installed base of smart gas meters hit 55.9 million units in 2023. That represents 45% penetration.

While the first generation of smart meters were rolled out with the goal of simplifying and making the collection of users' consumption data more cost effective for utility suppliers, the next generation offers richer functionality. As an example, a modern smart meter could need to communicate not only about usage but also to provide users with insights on more energy efficient behavior.

In the US, second-generation smart meter deployments already account for a growing share of annual smart meter shipment volumes and are projected to make up nearly three-quarters of yearly shipments by 2030, says Berg Insight. Utilities are moving to second-generation solutions to improve customer engagement, support sustainability goals, reduce operational expenditure by requiring fewer truck rolls and ensuring compliance with government mandates.

"Quectel is able to match customers' specific needs with communications modules, antenna solutions and associated services to create an optimized overall design," commented Delbert Sun, Vice General Manager, Product Department, Quectel Wireless Solutions. "A power-constrained water meter, for example, can utilise power saving mode (PSM) and extended discontinuous reception (eDRX) technologies to maximize its lifetime, minimizing engineer visits to replace a battery. In these scenarios time and money spent on dedicated designs results in prolonged meter lifetime with almost no maintenance across a fleet of hundreds of thousands of smart meters."

Quectel is also assisting organizations in their deployments of second-generation smart meters. As the migration occurs, it's important to work with a modernization partner who can streamline and simplify replacement of first-generation smart meters with second-generation products that connect easily and deliver richer user experiences while helping utility providers achieve compliance and manage the greater complexity in their operations.

Quectel is expanding its leadership in smart metering with a comprehensive portfolio of modules and antennas designed to meet the diverse connectivity needs of electricity, water and gas meters worldwide. For cellular LPWA deployments, Quectel's BG95 and BG950S-GL modules deliver ultra-low-power NB-IoT and LTE Cat M1 connectivity, while the EG800 and EC200 series provide robust LTE Cat 1 and Cat 1 bis options for richer data and extended feature sets.

For sub-GHz and mesh-based metering networks, Quectel offers dedicated solutions including the KCM0A5S series Wi-SUN module, the KCMCA6S series Wireless M-Bus or Sub-GHz Proprietary module, and the KG200Z LoRa module, enabling long-range, secure and power-efficient communication across urban and rural environments.

Complementing these is the Bluetooth- and Zigbee-capable KCMA32S and KGM133S series module that brings together robust multi-protocol connectivity and advanced security features. In addition, Quectel offers a full range of high-performance embedded and external antennas and together, these products provide utilities and meter OEMs with a scalable, future-ready platform for next-generation AMI deployments.

In addition, from Quectel's Bluetooth Low Energy module range, the HCM511S is a high-performance MCU Bluetooth module designed for compact connected devices, offering low power consumption, stable wireless communication, and reliable operation-making it well suited for electricity meters as well as battery-powered water and gas meter applications where long life and robust connectivity are essential. The HCM111Z, also a high-performance MCU Bluetooth module, provides similarly strong wireless capability and processing performance for advanced electricity-metering designs that require efficient, secure, and compact communication solutions.

To find out more about how Quectel can simplify and accelerate your smart meter design with our modules, antennas and comprehensive portfolio of services, visit us at Enlit 2025, stand 1.G86.

About Quectel

Quectel's passion for a smarter world drives us to accelerate IoT innovation. A highly customer-centric organization, we are an end-to-end global IoT solutions provider backed by outstanding support and services.

With a worldwide team of over 5,800 professionals, we lead the way in delivering end-to-end IoT solutions, spanning cellular, GNSS, satellite, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth modules, high-performance antennas, value-added services and full turnkey offerings including ODM services and system integration.

With regional offices and support across the globe, our international leadership is devoted to advancing IoT and helping build a smarter world.

For more information, please visit: www.quectel.com or LinkedIn







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Press Release from Business Wire: Duco



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



LONDON, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - Duco, the trusted control layer in an agentic world, today announced the launch of agentic workspace, a new capability within the Duco Platform designed to help operations teams work alongside intelligent agents with transparency, control and confidence.

Agentic workspace is a collaboration environment where users can build, maintain, optimise, manage tasks and exceptions.All within a single, auditable workspace. It brings humans and autonomous agents together in a shared operational context, ensuring interoperability between systems while maintaining full oversight and explainability.

"Agentic workspace is the next step in our mission to put people in control of automated operations," said James Maxfield, Chief Product Officer at Duco. "As firms embrace agentic AI, they need tools that allow them to monitor, adjust and collaborate with these systems in real time. This workspace gives them that control, without slowing innovation."

By combining data automation, exception management and agentic collaboration in one workspace, Duco continues to help capital markets firms scale automation safely; with the transparency, governance and human oversight required in today's complex financial environments. General availability is planned for calendar Q1 2026.

About Duco

Duco is empowering financial services firms to break the bad data cycle that has held the industry back for decades. We do this with a combination of proprietary technique, innovative cloud computing, no-code and artificial intelligence technology, and deep subject matter expertise.

Our AI-powered operational data automation platform gives firms the ability to unlock full end-to-end reconciliation and automation of their data, regardless of source, format or structure.

By partnering with the industry's leading firms, we are helping to rethink operating models, increase efficiency, strengthen governance and regulatory compliance, reduce risk, streamline processes and build the workforce of the future.

Over 10,000 users across 30+ countries process billions of data records every week using the platform.

Duco is headquartered in London, with offices in New York, Wroclaw, Antwerp and Singapore. Customers include global banks, investment managers, exchanges and insurance firms. For more information go to www.du.co.







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EU court confirms Amazon subject to bloc's digital content rules



Brussels, Belgium, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



An EU court on Wednesday rejected Amazon's challenge against the bloc's digital content law, confirming that the tech giant must comply with its strict rules.

"Amazon's action against the (European) Commission's decision designating the platform Amazon Store as a 'very large online platform' is dismissed," the Luxembourg-based General Court ruled.

Amazon took umbrage with the European Union's behemoth Digital Services Act (DSA), which demands online platforms better protect users and that marketplaces counter the spread of illegal goods and content online.

Under the DSA, the commission has a list of "very large online platforms" which have more than 45 million monthly active users in the European Union and, because of their size, face tougher rules than smaller digital players.

The General Court -- the lower chamber of the Court of Justice of the European Union -- said Amazon contested the lawfulness that imposed "specific obligations of transparency, cooperation and access to data".

The company accused Brussels of infringing several rights guaranteed by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including among others the freedom to conduct a business, freedom of expression and information, and the protection of confidential information.

The court said that while the rules interfered with certain freedoms including the freedom to conduct a business and potentially freedom of expression, this was "justified" because of the law's objectives.

raz/ec/cw
EU court confirms Amazon subject to bloc's digital rules



Brussels, Belgium, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



An EU court on Wednesday rejected an Amazon challenge against the bloc's digital content law, confirming that the tech giant must comply with its strict rules.

Amazon was seeking to overturn its designation as a "very large online platform," which are subject to tougher rules than smaller players under the European Union's behemoth Digital Services Act (DSA).

"Amazon's action against the (European) Commission's decision designating the platform Amazon Store as a 'very large online platform' is dismissed," the Luxembourg-based General Court ruled.

The US titan said it was "disappointed" with the ruling and intended to appeal.

The DSA demands that online platforms better protect users and that marketplaces counter the spread of illegal goods and content online, with tougher rules for platforms having more than 45 million monthly active users in the European Union.

The General Court -- the lower chamber of the Court of Justice of the European Union -- said Amazon contested the lawfulness that imposed "specific obligations of transparency, cooperation and access to data".

The company accused Brussels of infringing on several rights guaranteed by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union, including among others the freedom to conduct a business, freedom of expression and information, and the protection of confidential information.

The court said that while the rules interfered with certain freedoms including the freedom to conduct a business and potentially freedom of expression, this was "justified" because of the law's objectives.

Amazon insisted it had been "committed to protecting them (customers) from illegal products and content well before" the DSA.

"The Amazon Store, as an online marketplace, does not pose any such systemic risks; it only sells goods, and it doesn't disseminate or amplify information, views or opinions," an Amazon spokesperson said.

raz/ec/yad
CARACAS, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Non-Aligned Movement (NAM) on Tuesday denounced the presence of extra-regional military forces in the Caribbean and called for their withdrawal to help preserve regional and international stability.

The bloc expressed its position in a statement shared by Venezuelan Foreign Minister Yvan Gil on his Telegram account.

NAM, comprising 121 UN member states and being the largest political grouping of the Global South, reaffirmed its commitment to sovereignty and territorial integrity, emphasizing that threats, interference and intimidation run counter to UN principles.

The group reiterated that military action is not an option for resolving disputes between states, saying that "extra-regional military assets must be withdrawn in the interest of regional and international peace, security and stability."

Member states also voiced support for efforts to preserve regional peace, including maintaining Latin America and the Caribbean as a Nuclear-Weapons-Free Zone and a Zone of Peace, as declared by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States (CELAC) in 2014.

The movement urged foreign powers to act with restraint and avoid "provocative statements and aggressive, incendiary rhetoric." It emphasized dialogue and diplomacy as the only viable paths for addressing any situation.

The statement comes three months after the United States deployed a naval fleet to the Caribbean under what it describes as a counter-narcotics mission. Venezuela has denounced the move as a violation of international law and a threat to regional stability. 
Press Release from Business Wire: NIQ Global Intelligence plc



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



CHICAGO, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - NielsenIQ (NYSE: NIQ), a global leader in consumer intelligence, today released its CMO Outlook: Guide to 2026report, revealing how chief marketing officers (CMOs) are navigating a critical inflection point between brand building and revenue accountability. According to the report, 83% of CMOs remain confident in their brand's equity, even as they face tightening budgets and heightened scrutiny over ROI.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251118947080/en/

NIQ CMO Outlook: Guide to 2026



"Every marketing dollar is now under the microscope," said Marta Cyhan-Bowles, Chief Communications Officer & Head of Global Marketing COE, NIQ. "With organizations prioritizing cost reductions, CMOs are being challenged not just to spend wisely, but to prove how marketing directly drives awareness, growth, and loyalty. It's no longer just about efficiency; it's about proving impact - all with largely flat budgets."

Key Findings from NIQ's 2026 CMO Outlook

CMOs remain confident in brand equity but are shifting focus under pressure.

-- 83% of CMOs still view their brand as a key commercial asset, yet only 55% allocate 60% or more of their budgets to long-term brand building, down from 59% of CMO respondents last year.

-- Confidence in brand purpose has fallen from 83% to 71%.

-- Despite strong belief in brand equity, 84% of CMOs now prioritize ROI as their primary metric for budget allocation, signaling pressure to drive short term conversion over long-term brand growth.

-- Only 69% of CMOs say their CEO and chief financial officer (CFO) support long-term brand investment, a sharp decline from 80% last year. These shifts underscore a growing tension between brand stewardship and financial scrutiny.

Data fragmentation threatens ROI clarity.

-- 54% of CMOs say connecting data from different sources is a major barrier to insight generation.

-- One-third rely on 5 to 15 tools to measure ROI; in some cases, more than 15.

-- Only 37% report having a centralized data repository accessible to all stakeholders.

AI integration accelerates, but CMOs are now measured by impact, not access.

-- Generative AI tools are widely used for content generation (69%), personalization (64%), and media planning and optimization (55%).

-- The focus has shifted from experimentation to proving measurable business outcomes, with CMOs expected to quantify AI's ROI at the executive level.

Retail media networks (RMNs) surge as the next frontier of marketing ROI.

-- 69% of CMOs recognize RMNs as increasingly critical, and 67% plan to increase investment in the next year.

-- While RMNs offer conversion-rich environments and unprecedented targeting precision, they also increase media fragmentation, intensifying pressure on CMOs to integrate cross-channel data through AI-driven advanced modeling and analytics.

-- Ongoing integration of off-platform campaigns with on-platform RMN ads remains essential for a cohesive full funnel strategy and stronger conversion.

-- Many CMOs now view digital partnerships with retailers as long-term investments that accelerate SKU growth and strengthen distribution.

"Marketers are redefining what performance means," Cyhan-Bowles said. "Data, AI, and retail media networks are reshaping the marketing playbook, and the most successful CMOs will be those who connect these forces to demonstrate measurable value for the organization."

Strategic Focus Areas/Next Steps

As CMOs look ahead to 2026, NIQ's findings point to four priorities that will define high-performing marketing organizations.

-- Data integration and connectivity: Building unified, centralized data systems to create a single source of truth for marketing performance and enable faster, insight-driven decisions.

-- AI implementation and ROI measurement: Maximizing existing AI capabilities, investing in new AI solutions that drive measurable efficiencies, and clearly articulating martech's business impact to executive stakeholders.

-- Omnichannel strategy and retail media integration: Modernizing the media mix by balancing digital acceleration with traditional channels, leveraging RMN efficiencies to offset lower-converting high value channels, while maintaining full-funnel coverage across the consumer journey.

-- Talent and capability investment: Upskilling marketing teams to leverage analytics and AI tools effectively, enabling agile decision-making and sustained brand growth even amid economic pressure.

Together, these focus areas position CMOs to move beyond efficiency toward long-term resilience, driving both long-term brand equity and measurable business results.

The integration of AI and data driven strategies is not only a response to budget constraints but also a proactive approach to sustainable growth in a challenging economic environment.

Download the report for detailed insights and guidance for CMOs.

Note to Editors:

NIQ executives, including Chief Communications Officer & Head of Global Marketing COE Marta Cyhan-Bowles, will speak about findings from the 2026 CMO Outlook at The Wall Street Journal's CMO Council Summit on November 19, 2025, in a session titled "From Data to Decisions: The CMO's ROI Reckoning."

The 2026 CMO Outlook underscores NIQ's commitment to delivering actionable intelligence to help brands navigate a fast-evolving media and technology landscape. By integrating advanced analytics with The Full View? of consumer behavior, NIQ equips marketing leaders to measure what matters and act with confidence.

About the report:

NIQ's CMO Outlook: Guide to 2026 report is based on a survey of more than 250 CMOs and senior marketing decision-makers from leading companies across industries and regions. The survey covers 14 countries representing Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America, and North America. Marketing leaders are defined as CMOs or Brand Heads, Directors or VPs of Marketing, Brand, Marketing Operations, or Customer Experience.

About NIQ:

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Press Release from Business Wire: Synthio Labs



(AFP) Nov 19, 2025



SAN FRANCISCO, Nov 19, 2025 (BSW) - Synthio Labs, a clinical-grade voice AI company transforming how life sciences organisations engage clinicians and patients, today announced that it has raised $5 million in seed funding. The round was led by Elevation Capital with participation from 1984 Ventures, Peak XV Partners, Y Combinator, and several strategic angels from the global healthcare and AI ecosystem.

This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20251119509940/en/

Rajashekar Vasantha (left), Supreet Deshpande (center), and Sahitya Sridhar (right), the founding team behind Synthio Labs' voice-powered AI platform for pharma



"We believe Synthio Labs is defining the next major Customer Engagement infrastructure for Life Sciences. Their Clinical-grade Voice AI platform unifies how pharma communicates - giving field teams a powerful voice companion, and giving physicians and patients instant, trusted, compliant answers 24/7. Pharma's global Commercial and GTM footprint is a trillion-dollar machine ripe for reinvention, and Synthio has exactly the right team to deliver on this mission," said Krishna Mehra, AI Partner, Elevation Capital.

Pharma companies spend over $30 billion every year to engage doctors and patients, yet most communication is still manual, fragmented, and difficult to scale. Doctors are flooded with information, and many patients do not get regular support, leading to treatment drop-off rates of up to 50%in long-term illnesses. Synthio Labs aims to solve this problem with compliant and real-time Voice AI that helps deliver clear, accurate medical information to every doctor and patient. This technology can support pharma companies and healthcare providers globally, especially in chronic care and large patient support programs.

Synthio Labs' AI Operating System unifies three flagship platforms: Jarvis, the clinical-grade Voice AI copilot for field teams; Ather, the multimodal AI engine that powers seamless omnichannel engagement with physicians and patients; and Simulation Studio, the advanced insight platform that generates high-fidelity digital twins of clinicians and patients for research and strategy. Together, these products help life-sciences teams automate compliant conversations, capture structured intelligence at scale, and deliver consistent, human-grade experiences to every clinician and patient.

"Beyond breakthrough medicines, the future of healthcare will depend on how we reach and support every clinician and patient who relies on them,"said Supreet Deshpande, Co-founder and CEO of Synthio Labs."At Synthio, we're building the AI infrastructure that makes that possible - intelligently, compliantly, and at scale,"added Rajashekar Vasantha, Co-founder and CTO.

Sahitya Sridhar, Co-founder and Chief Product Officer, said,"We're designing products that make every conversation between pharma and their customers smarter, faster, and more meaningful. Healthcare is moving into a world of abundance. Our view is simple: bring consumer-grade experiences to pharma and empower the people delivering care."

Early adopters include several of the Top 10 Pharma Companies and leading D2C healthcare brands who are using Synthio's Voice AI to transform physician and patient engagement. In one project, Synthio's Voice AI reached more than 5,000 eczema patients in 48 hours, highlighting its ability to scale personalized support rapidly.

Rafal Pielak, Founder and CEO, Soteri Skin, said,"It's been a pleasure working with the Synthio Labs team. They built a voice AI agent that engaged thousands of eczema patients, completing 5,000 calls in just two days. The agent supported onboarding, screening, and patient assistance end-to-end, fully automating our feedback and review collection. We're very happy with the results and look forward to working together again."

Synthio Labs was founded by Supreet Deshpande, Sahitya Sridhar and Rajashekar Vasantha, an India-origin team with early academic and professional roots in the country. The founders bring deep expertise across pharma strategy and advanced AI engineering, built through leadership roles at McKinsey, ZS Associates, Amazon and Audible. They have led multi-million-dollar commercial programmes for global life sciences companies and played key roles in developing foundational LLMs and multi-agent voice systems at Amazon and Audible. The company plans to use this funding to expand its engineering and product teams, scale enterprise deployments across the U.S. and Europe, and deepen its partnerships with leading life sciences clients. Synthio aims to establish AI-driven engagement as the new standard for how pharma teams support clinicians and patients globally.

For more details, please refer to this video link:Synthio Labs Funding Announcement

About Synthio Labs

Synthio Labs is a clinical-grade conversational voice AI company that helps life sciences organizations engage clinicians and patients through secure, compliant, and intelligent voice technology. Its suite of AI products Jarvis, Ather, and Simulation Studio, powers omnichannel engagement for global pharma and biotech teams. Headquartered in the San Francisco Bay Area with teams across India and the U.S., Synthio is backed by Elevation Capital, Peak XV Partners, 1984 Ventures, Y Combinator, and leading life sciences investors.







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EU moves to delay 'high-risk' AI rules, cut cookie banners



Brussels, Belgium, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The EU executive proposed rolling back key AI and data privacy rules on Wednesday as part of a push to slash red tape and help Europe's high-tech sector catch up with global rivals.

The landmark EU tech rules have faced powerful pushback from the US administration under President Donald Trump -- but also from businesses and governments at home complaining they risk hampering growth.

Brussels denies bowing to outside pressure, but it has vowed to make businesses' lives easier in the 27-nation bloc and on Wednesday unveiled proposals to change its rules on data protection and delay parts of the AI law.

"Our rules should not be a burden but the added value. For this, we need immediate steps to get rid of regulatory clutter," EU tech chief Henna Virkkunen told reporters in Brussels.

Privacy defenders swiftly criticised the changes, while Big Tech hailed a "welcome step towards simplifying the EU's complex regulatory landscape".

The European Commission's proposals include:

-- giving companies more leeway to access datasets to train AI models, such as personal data when it is "for legitimate interests"

-- giving companies extra time -- up to 16 months -- to apply the bloc's rules on "high-risk" AI systems

-- in a plan many Europeans will welcome, Brussels wants to reduce the number of cookie banner pop-ups users see, which it says can be done without endangering privacy.

The proposals still need the approval of EU lawmakers and member states.



- 'Biggest attack on digital rights' -



One of the main allies of EU chief Ursula von der Leyen's conservative camp, parliament's centrists, backed efforts to "modernise" the rules but expressed concern about the "possible weakening" of data rules.

"Simplification cannot come at the expense of the safeguards that protect Europeans' privacy, data and fundamental rights," the group said.

After cheering the so-called "Brussels effect" whereby EU laws were seen as influencing jurisdictions around the world, rights defenders increasingly fear the EU is withdrawing from its role as Big Tech's watchdog.

Campaigners from groups including People vs Big Tech drove across Brussels on Wednesday with large billboards calling on von der Leyen to stand up to Trump and the tech sector, and defend the bloc's digital rules.

"This is the biggest attack on Europeans' digital rights in years. When the commission states that it 'maintains the highest standards', it clearly is incorrect," Austrian privacy activist Max Schrems said.

Brussels insisted European users' data privacy will be protected but indicated there could be further "simplification" in future.

"We have been very carefully analysing how we can boost innovations, but (at) the same time, we want to respect and safeguard the privacy of the citizens," Virkkunen said.

Tech lobby group CCIA Europe's Alexandre Roure welcomed the proposals but said efforts to "simplify" digital rules "cannot stop here".



- Crumbling cookies -



The EU raced to pass its sweeping AI law that entered into force last year, but dozens of Europe's biggest companies, including Airbus and Mercedes-Benz, called for a pause on aspects they said risked stifling innovation.

Brussels met them part way by agreeing to delay applying provisions on "high-risk" AI, such as models that could endanger safety, health or citizens' fundamental rights.

With the proposed change on cookie banners, an EU official said the bloc wanted to address "fatigue" at the pop-ups seeking users' consent for tracking on websites, and "reduce the number of times" the windows appear.

The commission wants users to be able to indicate consent with one click and save cookie preferences through settings on browsers and operating systems.

Brussels says the AI and privacy changes will help European businesses catch up with US and Chinese rivals -- and reduce dependence on foreign tech giants.

But experts say the EU lags behind for a multitude of reasons.

"The overregulation narrative is overplayed," Mario Mariniello, a non-resident fellow at Bruegel think tank told AFP.

Although EU laws had an impact on businesses, Mariniello pointed to other reasons for companies' difficulties, including the bloc's fragmented regulatory landscape, access to skilled labour and limited financing to scale up.

bur-raz/ec/cc

Airbus Group

Lufthansa
US clears Ukraine upgrade order on Patriot missile system



Washington, Nov 18 (AFP) Nov 18, 2025



The United States on Tuesday approved a $105 million sale to Ukraine to upgrade and sustain Patriot missile defenses, as Russia keeps pummeling its smaller neighbor.

The State Department said it informed Congress of the deal for parts, training and services on the Patriots, which Ukraine relies on to shoot down incoming missiles.

The sale includes upgrading from M901 to M903 launchers, which can fire more missiles at once.

"The proposed sale will improve Ukraine's ability to meet current and future threats," a State Department statement said.

Ukraine will pay for the Patriot upgrades. President Donald Trump has been critical of US military assistance to Ukraine, which has totaled some $67 billion since Russia invaded in February 2022.

Despite Trump's calls to end the war, Russia has rebuffed appeals for a long-term ceasefire and has pressed forward with attacks on Ukraine.

Zelensky is traveling Wednesday to Turkey on a trip to revive US involvement in diplomatic efforts.

Zelensky said last month that Ukraine needed another 25 Patriot systems to fend off escalating Russian attacks.
Nigerian president confirms general killed by jihadists



Lagos, Nov 18 (AFP) Nov 18, 2025



Nigerian President Bola Tinubu confirmed on Tuesday that jihadist forces had killed an army brigadier general, the highest-ranking military official to die in the long-running conflict since 2021.

The Islamic State West Africa Province (ISWAP) had claimed on Monday its fighters ambushed and killed a senior officer in the northern Chad region days earlier, in a post alongside a picture of Brigadier General Musa Uba.

The jihadist group said the general was wounded in the leg and was attempting to flee when he was abducted.

"I am depressed with the tragic death of our soldiers and officers on active duty. May God comfort the families of Brigadier General Musa Uba and other fallen heroes," Tinubu said in a statement.

The Nigerian army initially dismissed reports that Uba had been captured in the ambush.

But a Nigerian intelligence source told AFP on Sunday evening that Uba had been taken by ISWAP fighters and that the "worst-case scenario" was feared.

According to the army and a United Nations report, two soldiers and two members of a self-defence group were killed in the attack.

ISWAP broke away from the Boko Haram jihadist group in 2016 and is focused on attacking the Nigerian army.

The jihadist insurgency has killed more than 40,000 people and displaced nearly two million in northeastern Nigeria since 2009, and has spread to neighbouring Niger, Chad and Cameroon.

Uba is the second senior officer killed in a jihadist ambush in four years, after General Dzarma Zirkusu, who died in November 2021.
Japan set to restart world's biggest nuclear plant: reports



Tokyo, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Japan is set to give the green light this week to restart the world's biggest nuclear plant, local media reported Wednesday.

The resource-poor country pulled the plug on nuclear power after the 2011 Fukushima disaster, but it wants to revive atomic energy and reduce its dependence on imported fossil fuels.

The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear plant is expected to get approval this week from the local governor to resume operations, according to Kyodo News and the Nikkei business daily, citing unnamed sources.

Hideyo Hanazumi, governor of central Niigata province, where the plant is located, is expected to hold a news conference on Friday, the reports said.

Of the seven reactors at Kashiwazaki-Kariwa, only one will resume functioning.

After the 2011 tsunami and meltdown at the Fukushima Daiichi nuclear plant, Japan shut down all of its nuclear reactors, with the public voicing unease about the energy source.

A total of 14 reactors -- mostly in western and southern regions -- have since resumed operation after strict safety standards were imposed.

This will be the first restart of a nuclear plant for Fukushima operator Tepco after the disaster, if approved.

The government has continued to back nuclear power as a reliable and clean source of energy that Japan needs as it aims to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050.

In July, power company Kansai Electric said it was taking an initial step towards building the nation's first new nuclear reactor since the Fukushima disaster.

Japan still faces the daunting task of decommissioning the Fukushima plant, which is expected to take decades.

In August, Japanese technicians sent in remote-controlled robots to one of the damaged reactor buildings as part of preparations to remove radioactive debris.

Dangerously high radiation levels mean that removing melted fuel and other debris from the plant is seen as toughest challenge in the decades-long decommissioning project.

nf/aph/mtp



TEPCO - TOKYO ELECTRIC POWER
Israel military says killed two Hezbollah members in south Lebanon



Jerusalem, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The Israeli military said Wednesday it had killed two Hezbollah members in strikes the previous day in south Lebanon, where Israel has carried out repeated attacks despite the ceasefire between Israel and the Iran-backed group.

The military said in a statement it had "struck and eliminated two Hezbollah terrorists in the areas of Bint Jbeil and Blida in southern Lebanon" on Tuesday.

It said the Hezbollah member killed in Bint Jbeil was involved in rebuilding the militant group's military capacities, severely weakened by the recent war with Israel.

The statement said the Hezbollah member killed in Blida had been gathering intelligence on the Israeli military.

The Israeli army's announcement comes a day after at least 13 people were killed in an Israeli strike Tuesday night on the Ain al-Hilweh camp for Palestinian refugees in southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Health.

The Israeli army said it targeted a "training compound" belonging to the Palestinian group Hamas.

Hamas has denied having any military installations in Lebanon's Palestinian camps and dismissed the Israeli assertion as "lies".

The Israeli army announced Monday it had killed a Hezbollah member in south Lebanon, accusing him of being responsible for coordination between Hezbollah and the residents in the Mansouri area, where Israel conducted the strike.

Lebanon accuses Israel of violating the ceasefire agreement reached under US and French sponsorship on 27 November 2024 through its strikes and by maintaining forces inside its territory.

Israel accuses Hezbollah of working to rebuild its military capabilities and of breaking the ceasefire terms.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu recently accused Hezbollah of attempting to rebuild its capabilities and rearm itself.
US, European countries call on Iran to work with UN watchdog



Vienna, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Iran must "cooperate fully" with the UN's nuclear watchdog, according to a draft resolution submitted to the agency's board by Britain, France, Germany and the United States, and seen by AFP on Wednesday.

Tensions between Iran and the UN nuclear watchdog have repeatedly flared in recent years, with relations being further strained in the wake of a 12-day war in June that saw Israeli and US strikes on key Iranian nuclear facilities.

Since the war, agency inspectors have not been granted access to key nuclear sites such as Fordo and Natanz, which were hit in the strikes in June, but they have been able to visit other sites.

The draft, which is expected to be voted on by the board of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) during its meeting this week, stresses that it is "imperative" for Iran to comply with its obligations under the nuclear non-proliferation treaty.

It also urges Iran to provide "access that the agency requests".

Last week the IAEA called on Iran to allow it to verify its enriched uranium inventories, especially its sensitive stockpile of highly enriched uranium that was "long overdue", according to a confidential report seen by AFP.

"Iran has failed over the past five months to provide the IAEA with requested information regarding the status of its enriched uranium stockpiles and safeguarded nuclear facilities," the resolution reads.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Sunday that the country had no undeclared uranium enrichment sites.

Araghchi added there was "no enrichment" taking place at present because the sites were damaged in the recent war with Israel.

The assertion came after US media outlets, including the Washington Post and the New York Times, reported that Iran had accelerated construction at a secret underground nuclear site called "Pickaxe Mountain", or Kuh-e Kolang, near its Natanz facility.

In mid-June, Israel launched an unprecedented bombing campaign against Iran, triggering a 12-day war during which the US briefly joined with strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.

In the aftermath of the war, Tehran suspended its cooperation with the IAEA and restricted the watchdog's inspectors from accessing the bombed sites, accusing it of bias and failing to condemn the attacks.

During Sunday's forum in Tehran, Iranian officials warned the UN body against adopting an anti-Iran resolution.

"In case of a resolution, Iran will consider a review of its relations with the IAEA and will conduct a fundamental review," said Iran's deputy foreign minister Kazem Gharibabadi.
by Xinhua Writer Wang Xinyi

HONG KONG, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Global shipping leaders are in Hong Kong this week to deliver a clear message: dialogue is the only way through the industry's triple crises -- fragmented decarbonization regulations, geopolitical disruptions and a seafarer shortage.

The two-day World Maritime Merchants Forum 2025, which closed on Tuesday, positions Hong Kong as an anchor of stability for the global shipping industry. Tasked with leveraging its links to the Chinese mainland and the world, the city is driving the sector's green transition.

Hong Kong's credentials are impressive. For the sixth consecutive year, it has been ranked fourth globally in the International Shipping Center Development Index. Home to over 1,200 port and maritime-related enterprises, the city specializes in ship management, finance, insurance, and law.

"Hong Kong shipowners control nearly 10 percent of the global merchant fleet by deadweight tonnage. Four of the world's top 10 ship management companies are headquartered here, overseeing thousands of vessels worldwide," said Angad Banga, chief operating officer of the Caravel Group and chairman of the Hong Kong Shipowners Association. "These are not just statistics -- they represent confidence in Hong Kong's delivery capabilities."

Shekkappan Kannan, regional service business manager of Alfa Laval (China) Ltd., views Hong Kong as an ideal destination for investment, technology, talent and legal services. He believes Hong Kong serves as a "facilitator" and "gateway" connecting the Chinese mainland to global markets.

As Martin Kroeger, CEO of the German Shipowners' Association, put it: the Chinese mainland will soon become a top producer of alternative fuels, and Hong Kong's financial strength can underpin this capacity transformation. This creates a "mainland production plus Hong Kong finance" model unmatched by any other hub.

Hong Kong's practicalism also makes it a bridge for rulemaking. "When crafting commercial rules, Hong Kong balances stakeholder interests, endowing it with a natural advantage to become a coordinator of maritime rules," noted Rolf Thore Roppestad, CEO of Gard AS. This proves invaluable amid global regulatory fragmentation.

Hong Kong is walking the talk. It will soon launch methanol bunkering and is planning green shipping corridors.

"We have a clear roadmap, even if the International Maritime Organization (IMO)'s framework lags," said Mable Chan, secretary for Transport and Logistics of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government. She was referring to the city's Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering, which aligns with the 2050 net-zero goal of the International Maritime Organization (IMO).

Laws have been updated to permit liquefied natural gas and methanol bunkering. The Green Incentive Scheme has been rolled out to reward Hong Kong-registered ships that achieve high ratings under the IMO's international decarbonization standards. Meanwhile, the HKSAR government is allocating land for fuel storage facilities and offering tax breaks for new energy trade.

"The core is government-industry collaboration: listen first, then support," explains Edward Liu, the principal representative of the International Chamber of Shipping (China) Liaison Office.

"Hong Kong's busy, well-connected hub is turning potential into momentum," says Giles Lane, a director of Clarksons.

Wei Muheng of ZhenDui Industry Artificial Intelligence Co. Ltd (ZDIAI) hails the city as the "key green shipping financier and technology tester" for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Shipping's global nature demands cross-border cooperation, and Hong Kong is forging crucial connections. Mable Chan believed that the city could partner with Shenzhen's Yantian Port to leverage their comparative strengths. Kroeger advocates a "production-financing-application" chain linking Hong Kong's capital to Chinese mainland fuel plants. Kannan urges the city to "take the lead in regulation and mediation to help turn global consensus into action.

As emission rules and carbon taxes diverge across regions, which is weighing on the global decarbonization process, "dialogue and trust are what resolve disputes," said Vinod Kumar Sehgal, CEO and managing director of SeaQuest Shipmanagement. He expects the city to play a bigger role in the global shipping industry's green transition. 
Romania scrambles jets over fresh drone incursion



Bucharest, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



NATO member Romania, bordering Ukraine, scrambled fighter jets early on Wednesday after a fresh drone incursion, the defence ministry said, while neighbouring Moldova also reported that its airspace was breached.

Romania and Moldova have repeatedly seen violations of their airspaces, including drone fragments falling onto their soil, following Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.

In the latest incident, two German fighter jets serving in NATO member Romania were monitoring the air situation just after midnight at the border with Ukraine, following Russian air strikes, the Romanian defence ministry said in a press release.

A phone alert was sent out to residents of southeastern Tulcea county, and "for a few minutes, the signal of a drone was detected, which had entered approximately eight kilometres (five miles) into national airspace" before it disappeared from the radar.

The drone then "reappeared intermittently on radar for approximately 12 minutes," the ministry said, with an alert also being sent to residents in southeastern Galati county.

"Two more aircraft, F-16s of the Romanian Air Force, were scrambled," the ministry added, saying that "no cases of aircraft impact with the ground have been reported".

"Teams of specialists are ready to begin ground searches," it added.

Moldova also reported its airspace was breached by a drone during the night.

"After an exchange of information with partners in Ukraine and Romania, it has been confirmed that a drone flew over the national airspace," the country's defence ministry said in a press release.

It added that the aircraft was flying at a low altitude of approximately 100 metres in the south and was not detected on monitoring systems.

On Monday, Romania ordered the evacuation of two villages -- the first such evacuation in the country as a result of the war in Ukraine -- after a Russian drone attack across the Danube river in neighbouring Ukraine set fire to a ship carrying liquefied petroleum gas.

The evacuation order was lifted on Tuesday.

burs-ani/yad
UK warns Putin as Russian military ship enters its waters



London, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The UK government warned the Kremlin on Wednesday after saying a Russian military ship had entered British waters and directed lasers at UK pilots.

Defence Secretary John Healey told reporters in London that the ship had "entered" UK waters for the second time this year, following an earlier incursion back in January.

"The Yantar is on the edge of UK waters, north of Scotland, having entered the UK's wider waters over the last few weeks," he said during a press conference in Downing Street.

The UK military deployed a Royal Navy frigate and Royal Air Force planes to "monitor and track this vessel's every move, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots," he added.

He called the use of the lasers "deeply dangerous" and issued a message to Russian President Vladimir Putin.

"We see you. We know what you're doing. If the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready."

Healey said the Yantar was "part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk".

Britain and NATO allies have expressed growing concern about the risk Moscow poses to offshore infrastructure following the sabotage in recent months of several undersea telecom and power cables.

Experts and politicians have accused Russia of orchestrating a hybrid war against the West as the two sides square off over Ukraine.
German military to take greater domestic role in countering drones



Berlin, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The German government on Wednesday backed legislation that would allow the military to respond to unauthorised drones in domestic airspace, including by shooting them down.

Recent drone incidents in Germany and elsewhere in Europe in recent months have been blamed on Russia, and governments are scrambling to bolster their defences.

The new German law enables the armed forces to "combat, intercept and even shoot down" drones, said Interior Minister Alexander Dobrindt.

Germany recently moved to expand police powers to counter drone threats. But Germany's constitution puts strict limits on military operations during peacetime within the country's borders.

Russia in believed to be behind many of the incursions, some of which have shut down traffic at major airports or flown over sensitive sites such as power plants, ports and military bases.

Chancellor Friedrich Merz said in October that drone incursions are part of an effort by Russian President Vladimir Putin to "intimidate us and frighten us".

The reforms to Germany's Air Security Act backed by the cabinet on Wednesday are meant to allow the police and other local authorities to quickly summon military assistance to deal with imminent threats.

"We are significantly increasing our capabilities to be able to deal with the increased sightings," Dobrindt said.

"We want to be as well-equipped as possible."

A planned joint national drone defence centre will help coordinate responses between agencies, an interior ministry spokesman told reporters.

He added that Dobrindt would consult with the interior ministers from Germany's 16 federal states in December to decide on decision-making processes and other details.

Some critics, however, contend that the proposed changes to the law violate constitutional limits on the military.

Dobrindt dismissed that assessment, arguing that German law allows civilian authorities to request "administrative assistance" when threats are beyond the capabilities of the police.
White House slams Democrats' call for US military to refuse 'illegal orders'



Washington, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



The White House on Wednesday slammed a call by six Democratic lawmakers for US military and intelligence personnel to refuse "illegal orders" from President Donald Trump's administration.

"Top Democrats openly appeal to CIA and military officials to engage in rebellion against their Commander-in-Chief. Do not underestimate how dangerously radicalized the Democrat party has become," White House Deputy Chief of Staff Stephen Miller posted on X.

US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth also hit back against the message, describing it on X as "Stage 4 TDS," or "Trump Derangement Syndrome" -- a term used by the right to mock the president's opponents.

The group of Democratic senators and representatives -- who themselves all have military or intelligence service backgrounds -- said in a video posted Tuesday on X that "this administration is pitting our uniformed military and intelligence community professionals against American citizens."

"Right now, the threats to our constitution aren't just coming from abroad, but from right here at home," they said, adding: "You can refuse illegal orders."

They did not specify which orders they were referring to, but Trump's administration has come under fire for its employment of US forces both at home and abroad.

Inside the United States, Trump has ordered the National Guard into multiple US cities -- in many cases against the wishes of local officials, who have responded with legal challenges -- in a bid to bring allegedly rampant unrest under control.

And abroad, Trump has ordered strikes on a series of alleged drug-smuggling vessels in the Caribbean Sea and eastern Pacific Ocean that have left more than 80 people dead since early September.

Experts say the strikes are illegal and amount to extrajudicial killings even if they target known traffickers.

The lawmakers in the video appeal included Senator Mark Kelly, a former member of the Navy and NASA astronaut, and Senator Elissa Slotkin, who served with the CIA in Iraq.
Italy's Leonardo launches joint venture with UAE defence firm



Milan, Italy, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Italian defence group Leonardo said Wednesday it had agreed to launch a joint venture next year with the United Arab Emirates' state-owned defence conglomerate EDGE Group.

Details of the sectors covered by the joint venture, which would be 51 percent owned by EDGE and 49 percent by Leonardo and based in Abu Dhabi, have yet to be announced.

But it will cover a range of Leonardo's solutions "spanning sensors, system integration, and platforms", the Italian group said in a statement.

Leonardo, in which the Italian government holds a 30.2 percent stake, is known for its helicopters and their electronics, as well as for cyber, security and space products.

"By collaborating across several critical domains including air, land, sea, and electro-optics, we can tailor solutions born from solid experience, expertise, and innovation, through the UAE to existing and new untapped markets," Hamad Al Marar, managing director and chief executive of EDGE Group, said in the statement.

The two companies signed a memorandum of understanding in June and made their latest announcement at the Dubai Airshow.

Leonardo has been active in the UAE for five decades but is seeking to transform "our commercial presence into an industrial one", co-general manager Carlo Gualdaroni told the ANSA news agency.
If I come to the second part, which is I need to operate at low cost, I have to have a burden put upon me of CO2 taxes  we paid 20 million last year in CO2 taxes, that will double in the next four or five years. My international competitors do not have those costs.
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Against all odds, Doherty is thriving. But Babyshambles well, Babyshambles were always different. The singers post-Libertines outfit - formed as a direct riposte for being kicked out of the band due to his escalating drug problems - their story was always steeped in something darker. Upon announcing their reunion, Doherty stated that, for years, himself and guitarist Mik Whitnall had been forcibly kept apart for fear that even being in the same room would derail both their sobriety journeys upon impact. The bands first guitarist Patrick Walden passed away earlier this year after a troubled history of his own; tonight, his image adorns the backing screen - a touching tribute but also a reminder that the story could have ended very differently for some of the other musicians on stage too.
But that really is what Paddington represents to people, a familiarity borne from childhood and then again in parenthood, and a kind of innocence that this implies. Paddingtons real appeal is an essential appeal to our better selves. I think it's just delving into nostalgia and comfort and familiarity. This bear has only ever brought goodness into this little world, and Paddington just draws on kindness. That's why these books were so brilliant for little kids, and it transfers to adults as well - I'm sure a lot of parents along the way have got their best parenting tips from those books. Remembering kindness and to be present and to listen and to give benefit of the doubt.
For about a year and a half, I was trying to say: 'Look I was on holiday... I have come with a baby with a suitcase full of nappies, she said. But then when he made that comment, the Revolutionary Guards every time after that... they said: 'You have been hiding information from us. We know that you're a spy. We know what you were up to, even your prime minister mentioned that.'
GAZA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A Palestinian woman and her child were injured by Israeli fire in southern Gaza on Wednesday, while three fishermen were arrested by Israeli naval forces off the coast of Gaza City, according to Palestinian sources.

An Israeli missile targeted a group of Palestinians attempting to return home in the town of Bani Suheila, east of Khan Younis, seriously injuring a Palestinian woman and her child, according to Spokesperson for the Civil Defense in Gaza Mahmoud Basal and local eyewitnesses.

Meanwhile, Israeli naval forces intercepted several small fishing boats off the coast of Gaza City and opened fire on them before arresting three fishermen, said Zakaria Bakr, coordinator of Gaza's Fishermen's Committees.

A total of 19 Palestinian fishermen have been arrested by Israeli naval forces since the ceasefire came into effect on Oct. 10, Bakr said.

The Israeli military has not commented on those incidents.

Also on Wednesday, the Hamas-run media office in a press statement accused Israel of conducting "393 documented violations" of the ceasefire deal, whereas Mohammed Abu Afash, director of the Medical Relief Organization in Gaza, warned in a statement of a further collapsing health system in the enclave due to Israel's "continued prevention of the entry of medicines."

The ceasefire has not completely stopped Israeli attacks in Gaza, with Israeli forces continuing demolitions in areas under their control. At least 280 people have been killed since the truce began, bringing the total death toll from Israeli attacks since Oct. 7, 2023, to at least 69,513, Gaza's health authorities said Wednesday. 
Williams, of Langford Road, Peterborough, is also accused of affray and possession of a bladed article in connection to an incident at Ritzy Barbers in Peterborough, theft of knives from an Asda supermarket in Stevenage and assaulting a 31-year-old man on a train travelling between Hitchin and Biggleswade, all on October 31.
2021  Carrick was arrested by Herts Police on suspicion of rape, but the case was dropped when the victim said she did not want to co-operate with the investigation. The officer was placed on restricted duties at the Met and removed from roles involving members of the public after his arrest, but was not suspended.
Mr Watts said: The reason we wanted to guarantee this money to L&P now, upfront, is because those projects in particular are dependent on some really expert, high calibre, quality staff who we need to give L&P the confidence to not start to lay off.
Earlier this year, I announced the biggest ever single investment of 10million to tackle homelessness to support those most at risk of sleeping rough. And for the first time ever, a new focus on prevention will allow teams to step in and provide support to Londoners at risk of rough sleeping before they spend a first night on the streets.
In a landmark judgment, the court upheld an appeal brought by a pupil at a Belfast school and her father and reinstated an earlier court ruling that the teaching of RE and collective worship breaches human rights as it does not approach the subject in an objective, critical and pluralist manner.
He continued: Can I make a plea to the Prime Minister? Will he involve himself personally to make sure that 60, 70, 80-year-old soldiers, who have carried out actions which most of us would view as heroic, are not persecuted in the coming years because now its a matter not of national security, but of national honour.
Just as we have been about incursions into Nato airspace, just as we are being now in terms of identifying the Russian spy ship in UK waters and just as we have continued to be in response to sabotage threats that we have seen across many different European countries as well.
The dinner came as negotiations over Britains participation in a 150 billion euro (132 billion) European defence fund continue, with The Times reporting that the Government was considering walking away from the talks over French demands that the UK pay 5 billion to the EU to take part.
The mother of a teenage motorcyclist, killed by a US citizen who was able to leave the UK under diplomatic immunity laws, said her son would be super proud, after she was made a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
WUHAN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China has inched closer toward its ambitious goal of building infrastructure on the moon, as the first set of experimental "lunar soil bricks" returned to Earth after a year-long exposure to the harsh environment of space.

The bricks, part of a pioneering experiment aboard China's space station, arrived last week on the Shenzhou-21 spacecraft. Experts confirmed that the sample unit was in good condition following initial inspections.

This signals an engineering progress in China's long-term lunar program, which includes landing astronauts on the moon by 2030 and constructing a basic model of the International Lunar Research Station by 2035.

The experiment began in November 2024, when the Tianzhou-8 cargo ship ferried the simulated lunar-soil samples up to the space station. A total of 74 small bricks were designed to be mounted on an external exposure platform on the station's exterior.

Planned as a three-year study, the project will see the return of sample batches after one, two and three years for detailed analysis, according to the team led by Ding Lieyun, a scientist at Huazhong University of Science and Technology.

By analyzing the chemical fingerprint of authentic lunar specimens brought back by China's Chang'e-5 mission, Ding's team engineered a regolith simulant and pressed it into bricks through hot-press sintering.

They opted for volcanic ash from Changbai Mountain in northeast China's Jilin Province, which closely mirrors the composition of lunar regolith.

The resulting blocks share the density of conventional bricks, yet boast more than triple their compressive strength, remaining stable across the moon's brutal temperature swings, ranging from minus 190 Degrees Celsius to 180 Degrees Celsius, and under constant cosmic radiation.

"For constructing lunar scientific facilities, utilizing locally-sourced materials from the moon is the preferred approach," Ding said.

Drawing inspiration from traditional Chinese masonry techniques featuring mortise-tenon joint structure, the team has developed a way to sinter simulated moon dust into bricks of various sizes. The sintering process is expected to be powered by concentrated solar energy on the moon.

They also developed a robotic system to handle the assembly like LEGO blocks, with the final step involving the use of 3D printing to reinforce the structure.

Next, the scientists plan to analyze the returned bricks to understand how the space environment has altered their structure and properties.

This data is vital for creating accurate models to predict the long-term durability and behavior of such materials in the actual lunar environment, providing the scientific foundation for future extraterrestrial construction. 
A driverless Tesla robotaxi, with a man serving as a safety monitor in the front passenger seat, rolls along Laguna Drive in Southeast Austin on June 27. Arizona has cleared Tesla to begin offering ride-hailing services, making it the third state where the company can operate with a human monitor on board. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Arizona has given Tesla the green light to begin offering ride-hailing services, making it the third state where it can operate with human-monitored cars.

The Austin-based automaker received approval of its Nov. 13 request for a transportation network company permit, which allows for ride-hailing operations similar to those offered by Uber or Lyft.

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Tesla doesnt yet have the go-ahead for driverless robotaxis to hit the streets in Arizona. Additional permits will be required for full-scale autonomous operations.

The company applied to conduct autonomous vehicle testing in Phoenix in July, about a month after launching its service on a limited basis in Austin.

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Teslas robotaxis are currently available in Austin and the San Francisco Bay Area, where they operate with human safety monitors. CEO Elon Musk told investors last month those front-seat monitors would be removed from Austin robotaxis by the end of this year. In California, robotaxis come with a human in the driver seat.

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Musk has said he wants to operate a robotaxi service in Phoenix, Las Vegas and some cities in Florida by the end of 2026. Thats significantly scaled back from his earlier-stated goal of having the service available to more than half the U.S. population by the end of this year.

A Model Y being used as a Robotaxi is seen in July in Austin. Arizona recently gave Tesla the green light to begin offering ride-hailing services. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

As of October, Tesla robotaxis had driven more than 250,000 miles across Texas, with most of those logged in Austin. It has between 15 and 30 vehicles operating in the state and, since its June launch in Austin, the vehicles have been involved in seven crashes, four of which were in September, according to reports filed with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

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FILE  An Austin police car follows a driverless Tesla robotaxi in early July in Austin. Federal data show the companys vehicles were involved in four crashes in the city during September. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Teslas driverless robotaxis were involved in four crashes in Austin during September, according to new data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

News of the wrecks comes as the Austin automaker is planning to remove safety monitors from its self-driving ride-hailing vehicles by the end of the year, a step CEO Elon Musk teased last month for investors.

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The human monitors have been riding in the robotaxis front passenger seat since the service launched in June. Their role is to stop the vehicle or take control in case of trouble.

The four September crashes bring to seven the total that Tesla Inc. has reported for its service in Austin, where it operates about two dozen robotaxis.

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Waymo, which operates more than 100 autonomous ride-hailing vehicles in Austin in partnership with Uber, reported nine crashes in September. But the narratives it included show most were not the fault of the companys self-driving system.

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Tesla, by contrast, redacted the narratives from its reports. That information would describe how the crash occurred and allow officials to assign fault.

Here's what it reported:

At 8:42 p.m. Sept. 4, a Tesla robotaxi was in a crash with another passenger car.

At 3:43 p.m. Sept. 6, a robotaxi collided with a cyclist.

At 1:25 a.m. Sept. 7, a robotaxi collided with an unspecified fixed object while making a left turn.

At 1:08 p.m. the same day, a robotaxi hit an animal.

Teslas three previous crashes occurred in July and involved collisions with two SUVs and an unspecified fixed object, with the latter crash resulting in a minor injury that did not require hospitalization.

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The companys autonomous vehicle technology has already grabbed the attention of federal safety regulators who have opened probes into both its robotaxi operations and the Full Self-Driving systems that are available in Tesla vehicles sold nationwide.

For years, Musk has said autonomy is key to the future of Tesla. But hes told investors he wants to remain overly cautious with the rollout of its robotaxis, which is one reason theyve had safety moderators up to now in the markets where theyre being used.

Teslas robotaxis have logged more than 250,000 miles across Texas as of late October, most of them by human-monitored vehicles operating in Austin. Waymo had driven nearly 3.25 million fully autonomous miles in Texas as of June  most of them in Austin.

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Waymo autonomous vehicles are seen charging at a facility in Southeast Austin on Wednesday. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Tesla has begun expanding its ride-hailing service to other parts of the country, with limited operations in the San Francisco Bay Area and pending approvals in Nevada and Florida. This week, the company received approval in Arizona for a permit allowing ride-hailing operations similar to Uber or Lyft, though additional permitting will be required before it can offer fully autonomous service.

CEO Elon Musk has said he wants more than half of the U.S. population to have access to Teslas robotaxi service by the end of the year.

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Waymo, widely regarded as the industry leader, also uses safety moderators before launching in new markets. On Tuesday, the company said it had pulled those moderators from its cars in Miami ahead of a 2026 launch and was expanding testing in Texas. In San Antonio, Waymo is operating about 20 vehicles from a temporary facility, where its conducting supervised drives and preparing to open rides to the public over time. The company is also testing in Dallas and Houston and expects to begin fully driverless service in those cities next year.
Billie Eilish speaks onstage during the WSJ. Magazine 2025 Innovator Awards at MoMA on October 29, 2025 in New York City. Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images for WSJ. Magazine I

Billie Eilish is having a massive week  two sold-out nights at Austins Moody Center, a festival-level production and, casually, a public feud with the worlds most online billionaire.

The 23-year-old pop star didnt mention Elon Musk onstage Friday night, but the tension between the two has been simmering since she called him a pathetic (expletive) (expletive) coward on Instagram for hoarding wealth during a global crisis. Musk, who has major business roots in Austin thanks to Tesla, fired back days later. His comeback? A tweeted Shes not the sharpest tool in the shed.

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Its the kind of middle-school energy Eilishs fans clown instantly  but the moment lands differently when the target is a 23-year-old donating $11.5 million from her own tour to global charities and the critic is the richest man in the city shes performing in.

Two powerful nights at the Moody Center

Pop star Billie Eilish perform the first of two sold out shows at Moody Center in Austin on Nov. 13, 2025. Henry Hwu/Provided by Live Nation

If Eilish was bothered Friday night, she didnt show it. Her Moody Center stop  the second show on her Hit Me Hard and Hit Me Soft tour  was all control, all presence.

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But the emotional center of the show came when she slowed things down. Its a dark time in the world, she told the crowd. You are free to be whoever you are in here.

Then she got real  the kind of real that doesnt usually happen in a 15,000-seat arena. Before starting Your Power, she acknowledged the political climate in Texas. Im scared for you. Im worried about you, she said, concern sharp in her voice.

Austins front-row seat

Protesters chant outside the Capitol on Wednesday, Nov. 5, 2025, against Teslas proposed $1 trillion pay package for CEO Elon Musk. The rally, held a day before Teslas 2025 shareholder meeting in Austin, brought together elected officials, labor leaders, and Tesla Takedown activists. Jay Janner/Austin American-Statesman

Austin knows Musk well. Teslas Gigafactory looms east of town like a metal aircraft carrier; SpaceX and Boring Co. are regular headlines. Hes woven into the citys political debates, housing anxiety and tech-driven identity crisis.

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Eilish, meanwhile, has grown up in Austins music ecosystem. SXSW at 15. ACL Fest breakout at 17. The youngest ACL headliner at 19. And now two sold-out arena nights where she told the city, I cherish you deeply, and Ill always fight for you.
River Reimers, 5, plays Minecraft on his phone at his familys home in Round Rock, Nov. 12, 2025. Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

If youve ever sworn it feels like you know Taylor Swift on a personal level, Cambridge Dictionary has a word for that feeling: "parasocial."

Thats the publishers 2025 word of the year, announced Tuesday, and its less about grammar nerds and more about how we latch onto famous people, influencers and even AI. Cambridge says interest in one-sided parasocial relationships that people form with celebrities, influencers and AI chatbots is what drove the pick.

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What does 'parasocial' actually mean?

A parasocial relationship is when you feel close to someone who has no idea you exist: a pop star whose lyrics feel like your diary, a creator you watch every single day on TikTok, a fictional character or even a chatbot you pour feelings into.

As trust in mainstream and traditional media breaks down, people turn to individual personalities as authorities, and  when they spend many hours consuming their content  develop parasocial bonds, treating them more like close friends, family or cult leaders, Cambridge professor Simone Schnall said in a press release.

The word itself isnt new. Social scientists came up with it in the 1950s to describe how TV viewers bonded with news anchors and sitcom characters. What is new is how often were using it now  and who were using it about.

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From Chappell Roan to Taylor Swift

Cambridges announcement lands in a year when parasocial talk has been everywhere in pop culture coverage. The release points to fan demeanor with artists like Chappell Roan and Taylor Swift as prime examples of parasocial relationships.

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Pop star Roan has openly pushed back on fans who get a little too familiar, calling out behavior that treats her like a best friend instead of a stranger onstage.

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Cambridge discussed how Swifts fans dissect every lyric, Easter egg and relationship update  especially around her hyper-public romance with Kansas City Chiefs tight end Travis Kelce. Coverage of their engagement and wedding plans came with plenty of sidebars about fans who felt emotionally invested in their story, despite never meeting either of them.

If that sounds familiar, youre the target audience here. Cambridges pick is less a vocabulary lesson and more a mirror: this is what were all doing online now.

Why a dictionary cares about your stan account

Dictionaries dont just sit around; they track lookups and search spikes. Cambridge says it saw big traffic around parasocial as people tried to make sense of fan behavior, influencer culture and human-AI friendships.

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A word makes it to Word of the Year territory when:

People are suddenly looking it up a lot

It helps explain a major cultural shift

Its moving from niche jargon into everyday speech

What about 6-7?

Cambridge isnt the only one handing out trophies.

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Earlier this year, Dictionary.com went in a much weirder direction and crowned 6 7 (six-seven) as its word of the year  a meme-y bit of Gen Alpha slang that exploded thanks to a drill song  Doot Doot (6 7) by Skrilla  and countless TikToks.

The site calls it purposefully nonsensical and says thats the entire point: its about inside jokes, vibes and a shrugging you had to be there energy.

If parasocial is the word for deep, slightly awkward feelings about famous people and bots, 6 7 is the one for the chaotic noise of internet culture.
Jennie Getten wears a necklace honoring her daughter, Ellen Getten, 9, who died in the July 4th flooding while she was a camper at Camp Mystic, during an interview in Austin, Friday, Sept. 5, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

The families of girls killed in the deadly Camp Mystic flood filed their lawsuits on the same day, after months of bonding over their shared grief and coordinating about legal strategy, according to one of the attorneys involved in the case.

Randy Howry, a partner at Howry, Breen & Herman in Austin, represents the family of Eloise Lulu Peck. The nine-year-old from Dallas was swept away during the July 4 flash flood on the Guadalupe River, along with 26 other young campers and counselors at Camp Mystic. Howry said nearly every affected family has now retained counsel, and most had already formed close-knit bonds in the months after the disaster.

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This group rallied together emotionally after the flood, then they rallied together when it came time to deal with the legislative process and passing some camp reforms, Howry said, referencing a group of affected parents who championed reforms at the Texas state capitol. Many of them knew each other even before this incident, because they live in the same towns, which may also have to do with how they chose their lawyers.

MYSTIC LAWSUITS: 5 additional families join wrongful death lawsuits accusing Camp Mystic of negligence

Howry said the decision to file the lawsuits simultaneously was not part of some secretive strategy, but rather a decision of convenience. Once lawyers representing different families realized which other firms were involved, he said, they began organizing a unified approach.

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If you read these four different petitions that have thus far been filed, there are usually a little different formats, but they basically take the same positions and just say it in a different way, Howry said. There was organization and communication about it, and there was a day designated when we decided to file our lawsuits.

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Some firms represent multiple families from the same city, while others, like the Peck family, sought their own counsel. Howry said there was no rhyme or reason to it.

Ultimately, he said, the families want two things out of the lawsuit: Consequences for Camp Mystic's leaders, and answers to their questions about why their little girls didnt come home. For most of the families, it isn't about the money.

Theyre still dealing with grief, so theres still that prevailing emotion, Howry said. No amount of money will bring their daughters back.
ISLAMABAD, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- At least 43 new dengue fever cases were reported in Pakistan's eastern Punjab province over the last 24 hours, bringing the provincial tally for the current season to 3,917, provincial health officials said on Wednesday.

The provincial capital city of Lahore recorded 15 new infections, raising the city's total to 708, Provincial Health Minister Khawaja Imran Nazir confirmed.

Warning of a possible dangerous spike in cases this year, the minister urged citizens to follow precautionary measures, including household fumigation and the use of protective lotions.

He said dengue surveillance had been intensified, with mosquito larvae being destroyed on an emergency basis.

The Pakistan Meteorological Department recently issued a high-risk dengue alert for the period from Sept. 20 to early December, citing suitable weather conditions and widespread flooding as key factors that could accelerate transmission.

The department noted that dengue has become a recurring public health challenge, typically intensifying after the monsoon season. 
Richard Bruce 'Dick' Cheney, 46th Vice-President of the United States (2001-2009) under George W Bush, died on Monday, Nov. 3, 2025. Photo 12/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

Flags throughout Texas and the United States will remain lowered one more day in honor of former Vice President Dick Cheney, who died at age 84 on Nov. 3 due to complications of pneumonia, cardiac and vascular disease.

Here's what to know.

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Who was Dick Cheney vice president for?

Richard Bruce "Dick" Cheney served as the 46th U.S. vice president under President George W. Bush from 2001 to 2009. Before that, he was Secretary of Defense for President George H.W. Bush.

George W. Bush mourns Dick Cheney: 'a decent, honorable man'

Dick Cheney controversy: Trump silent on former VP's death

While a statement from the current president typically accompanies an order to lower flags, President Donald Trump and his administration have remained notably silent on Cheney's death. As of Wednesday morning  the day before Cheney's funeral  there had been no official statements from Trump or the White House regarding the former vice president.

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The only acknowledgement came from White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt, whose comment on Nov. 4 followed a reporter's inquiry.

"I know the president is aware of the former vice president's passing," Leavitt said. "And as you saw, flags have been lowered to half-staff in accordance with statutory law."

(1st Row L-R) President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump, former President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, former President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, (2nd Row L-R) former Vice President Dan Quayle, Marilyn Quayle, former Vice President Dick Cheney, and Lynne Cheney attend the state funeral for former President George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral December 5, 2018 in Washington, DC. Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images

Despite being a conservative Republican, Cheney had become a vocal critic of Trump in recent years. He and his daughter, former Republican Rep. Liz Cheney, had declared their opposition to Trump after his denial of the 2020 election results and his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021 attack on the U.S. Capitol. Liz Cheney said Trump had "summoned a violent mob" and "caused a constitutional crisis."

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Dick Cheney backed his daughter in a 2022 campaign ad, saying," There has never been an individual who was a greater threat to our republic than Donald Trump." After endorsing Trump in the 2016 election, Cheney supported then-Vice President Kamala Harris in 2024.

In response, Trump bashed both Cheneys in his 2024 presidential campaign. He said Dick Cheney was "the king of endless, nonsensical wars, wasting lives and trillions of dollars." The president also insulted Liz Cheney for her loss in the 2022 Wisconsin Republican primary.

"She's a radical war hawk. Let's put her with a rifle standing there with nine barrels shooting at her, okay?" Trump said during a 2024 campaign event with Tucker Carlson. "Let's see how she feels about it, you know, when the guns are trained at her face."

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What are the funeral plans for Dick Cheney?

The funeral for the late vice president will be held at 10 a.m. CT on Thursday, Nov. 20, at the Washington National Cathedral in D.C. Only those who received invitations ahead of the service will be allowed inside, and the Cathedral confirmed security measures to keep guests and staff healthy and safe. The public can watch the funeral on the Cathedral's YouTube channel or on the Cathedral's website.

"Vice President Cheney devoted decades of his life to public service at the highest levels of government," said The Very Rev. Randolph Marshall Hollerith, Dean of Washington National Cathedral. "His life was marked by deep dedication to his family and to the country he served. We pray for his family and all who loved him."

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Cheney's family has not released the timing and location of the official's burial to the public.

When are flags raised again?

Flags will continue to be lowered until sunset on Thursday, Nov. 20, according to HalfFlag.org.

Some initial reports said flags would be lowered through Nov. 14 due to a misunderstanding. According to the national Flag Code, flags are lowered for a period of 10 days after the death of a current vice president. Because Cheney was a former vice president, flags will remain lowered until sunset of the day of his interment.

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When are flags flown at half-staff?

There are specific holidays and events when flags are flown at half-staff in the United States, according to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs website. That includes:

Memorial Day, when the flag should be displayed at half-staff until noon only, then raised to the top of the staff

Peace Officers Memorial Day, unless that day is also Armed Forces Day

Patriot Day

National Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

National Firefighters Memorial Day

President Dwight Eisenhower also issued a proclamation on the proper times for flying the flag at half-staff when government officials die. That includes:

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30 days at all federal buildings, grounds, and naval vessels throughout the United States and its territories and possessions after the death of the president or a former president.

10 days at half-staff after the death of the vice president, the chief justice or a retired chief justice of the United States Supreme Court, or the speaker of the House of Representatives.

From the date of death until interment for an associate justice of the Supreme Court, a member of the Cabinet, a former vice president, the president pro tempore of the Senate, the majority leader of the Senate, the minority leader of the Senate, the majority leader of the House of Representatives, or the minority leader of the House of Representatives.

The date of death and the following day of a United States senator, representative, territorial delegate, or the resident commissioner from the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. It should also be flown at half-staff on all federal facilities in the state, congressional district, territory, or commonwealth of these officials.

From the date of death until interment for the governor of a state, territory or possession.

The president may also order that the flag be flown at half-staff to commemorate the death of other officials, former officials or foreign dignitaries, such as the death of Pope Francis.

 Reuters and Brandi D. Addison, USA TODAY Network, contributed to this report.
Austin Police Department American-Statesman file

The man who kidnapped and killed a University of Texas nursing student more than 40 years ago pleaded guilty and was sentenced to eight years in prison, officials said.

Deck Brewer Jr., 79, was convicted of killing 25-year-old Susan Leigh Wolfe in 1980. He pleaded guilty to first-degree murder and was sentenced on Nov. 12.

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Brewer was also charged with capital murder, but those charges were waived. He served time in Massachusetts on an unrelated charge, and that time will count toward the sentence.

Susan Leigh Wolfe, 25, was murdered in 1980 while walking to a friend's house on 49th Street. Now her killer has been convicted and sentenced. Austin Police Association

What happened to Susan Leigh Wolfe?

Wolfe, 25, had finished her first day of school and decided to walk to a friends house on Jan. 9, 1980. She was planning to stay the night because her own apartment complex had been fumigated for roaches. Between her residence on Franklin Blvd. and her friends house on 49th Street, Wolfe was abducted.

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A witness told police they saw two men in trench coats grab her and force her into a two-door 1970 Dodge Polara before driving off. The witness said the driver wrapped Susan in a bear hug, put a coat over her head and forced her into the car.

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The next day, Wolfes body was found in an alley on E. 17th Street. Evidence indicated she had been strangled, shot and sexually assaulted. Her death was ruled a homicide.

The 44-year investigation

During the first year of the investigation, police identified over 40 persons of interest and interviewing at least six suspects, but the case ran cold for decades  until 2023, when Detective Joe Jedynak with Austin Police Departments Cold Case Unit decided to submit evidence for advanced testing with the Texas DPS Crime Laboratory.

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In February 2024, a hit in the national Combined DNA Index System (CODIS) database led investigators to eliminate the six suspects theyd previously interviewed. A month later, that DNA matched with a suspect in Massachusetts, later identified as Brewer. In July 2024, officers interviewed Brewer, who said hed been in Austin and San Antonio around the time of Wolfes murder.

He was arrested in August 2024 and indicted in December 2024.

Officers are still working to identify the passenger in the car with Brewer at the time of Wolfes abduction. Anyone with information related to this case should call the APD Cold Case unit at 512-974-5250 or submit a tip anonymously through the Capital Area Crime Stoppers Program by visiting austincrimestoppers.org or calling 512-472-8477.
Katey Psencik is the breaking and trending editor at the Austin American-Statesman. Katey is a journalist and educator whose career spans print, TV, digital media, and nonprofits. Most recently, she led The Drag Audio Production House at the University of Texas, where she oversaw more than 40 student producers and executive produced award-winning podcasts. She also teaches podcasting and other journalism courses at UT. A Central Texas native and proud Texas Ex, her work has appeared in Texas Highways, Eater, Vox Media and more. She lives in South Austin with her two dogs, Oso and Mav.
Contract negations begin between the Austin Firefighters Association and the City of Austin at the Permitting and Development Office, July 30, 2025. Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

Austin City Council was set to vote Thursday on a $62.8 million labor agreement with the Austin Firefighters Association, but the decision has been postponed amid concerns over the unions petition drive to add a staffing requirement to the city charter.

The union is in the process of gathering voter signatures in hopes of placing a measure on the May 2026 ballot that would enshrine an ordinance into charter requiring a minimum of four firefighters to staff each engine  an effort it announced just two weeks after reaching a tentative agreement with the city on a new, four-year contract.

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Council Member Krista Laine speaks during a City of Austin press conference regarding homelessness in Austin Tuesday, Oct. 21, 2025. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

At a Tuesday council work session ahead of Thursday's regular meeting, an official with the citys Labor Relations Office said that staffing issues should have been settled during the bargaining process and that the petition drive threatened to undermine the deal, as well as the city's finances.

If the AFA had an issue with the staffing, we believe they should have brought it to the table during negotiations, Deputy Labor Relations Officer Roxana Stevens told the council, recommending that it delay the vote and seek to re-open contract negotiations. They have bypassed the collective bargaining process.

Stevens confirmed in a news release late Wednesday the vote had been withdrawn from the meeting agenda.

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Firefighters Association President Bob Nicks first responded to the likely vote cancellation in a social media post where he said it was doubtful that the Firefighters will be extorted into going back to negotiations and dropping the petition effort.

On Wednesday, Nicks said in an interview that the decision would "be based on what is best for the citizens" and that the union's executive board would soon decide whether to return to the bargaining table though he did not give a set date.

In the meantime, the union proceeded with its own ratification vote on the contract. An overwhelming 72% of firefighters voted in favor.

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The four-person staffing model that underlies the dispute is so prized by the association that in 2018 it successfully convinced City Council to codify it in local ordinance. Nicks has repeatedly stressed that the model is a best-practice that ensures firefighter safety and effective emergency response.

But the issue has proven to be an ongoing point of dispute, particularly as the city has fallen on harder financial times and city leaders have moved to slash overtime spending at the department.

In August, City Manager T.C. Broadnax and Fire Chief Joel Baker proposed lowering the fire engine staffing minimum to three, which would require council to repeal the 2018 ordinance  a move that would require a simple majority vote. At the time, Baker said the Fire Department would still strive to send four firefighters to every fire emergency, but it would have to send three during shifts with insufficient staffing.

A revised budget City Council may vote on Thursday includes an $8.3 million reduction in the Fire Department's overtime budget, which the union views as a direct threat to the staffing minimum.

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While Stevens said Tuesday the tentative contract would allow for four-person staffing, the proposed budget says that overtime cuts would be achieved through a planned restructuring of the Fire staffing model.

City spokesperson Erik Johnson did not say how the Fire Department staffing model would change if council approves the cut.

The cut is a recommendation, Johnson said, but achieving those savings does not necessarily mean the Fire Department will adopt the exact staffing model.

The union launched its petition effort on Oct. 16. If it collects 20,000 signatures from registered voters by April, the measure will appear on the May 2026 ballot. If approved, it would enshrine the staffing minimum in the city charter so it would be harder to repeal.

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It contains other provisions, too.

Stevens told City Council Tuesday that one section of the proposed charter amendment is especially concerning because it would prohibit the city from temporarily taking fire engines and other response vehicles offline to save money  a tactic that has become common practice for Austin-Travis County Emergency Medical Service ambulances  unless the city could first prove a severe financial crisis that would affect its ability to fund essential services.

The way that I read it is that you must take away from everywhere else in the city before you touch the Fire Department, Stevens told the council.

Several council members, and Mayor Kirk Watson, expressed support for delaying the vote after Stevens spoke.

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What I would like to see is us back at the table where we can do that in a collective bargaining agreement, Watson said.

Council Member Krista Laine agreed, calling it completely unacceptable to approve a contract while the charter amendment effort continues.

Austin Firefighters Association President Bob Nicks, center, reads documents as bargaining begins between the Austin Firefighters Association and the City of Austin at the City of Austin Permitting and and Development Center, July 30, 2025. Sara Diggins/Austin American-Statesman

On Wednesday, Nicks said that even if the firefighters decline the citys invitation to return to the bargaining table, they would still end up with a labor contract through arbitration. In 2021, voters approved a ballot measure that gave the union the right to resolve all future contract disputes with the city through a third-party arbiter.

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The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has purchased 1,700 acres in Uvalde County for the new Bear Creek State Park. The property includes access to the Frio River, a popular summer destination in the Hill Country. Sonja Sommerfeld, Texas Parks and Wildlife

Texas voters in 2023 signed off on a $1 billion endowment to establish the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund to purchase and develop land for the recreational use across the state.

The fund is designed to help the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department improve the state's per capita ranking in state-owned park from 37th in the nation. The principal and interest, and any funds only be used for the creation and improvement of state parks.

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So far, the largest parcel of land in the Centennial Parks inventory, Silver Lake Ranch, is set to be donated to the state and developed with funds from the endowment. Bear Creek State Park, Post Oak Ridge State Park and the land for the expansion of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area were purchased from other state funding sources. But they will be developed through the Centennial Parks Conservation Fund.

"This fund allows Texas Parks and Wildlife Department to address the demand for more public lands in Texas while conserving natural and cultural resources for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations," the Parks and Wildlife Department says in its website.

Hearst Texas has compiled each park acquisition under the Conservation Fund to map out how Texas' collection of state parks is growing.

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Acres: 54,000

54,000 Counties: Kinney, Edwards

Kinney, Edwards Previous ownership: Moody Foundation

Moody Foundation Acquisition announced: Nov. 6, 2025, closing process on the the property is still under way.

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Acres: 1,720

1,720 Counties: Uvalde

Uvalde Purchase date: Aug. 25, 2025

Aug. 25, 2025 Public access: Planning is underway.

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Acres: 3,170

3,170 Counties: Burnet, Lampasas

Burnet, Lampasas Purchase date: Apr. 21, 2025

Apr. 21, 2025 Public access: Public hunts available for the 2025-2026 hunting season. Planning is underway for additional public access.

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Acres: 3,703

3,703 Counties: Llano

Llano Purchase date: Jan. 13, 2025

Jan. 13, 2025 Public access: Public hunts available for the 2025-2026 hunting season.

Correction: An earlier version of this story incorrectly said Silver Lake Ranch has already been donated. The donation is not yet finalized.
Pre-K students sit on a rug displaying Spanish vocabulary as they read books in class at Ridgetop Elementary School. The school is among those proposed for closure, but if Ridgetop has a problem, it's over-enrollment, Caroline Wright writes. Mikala Compton/Austin American-Statesman

As I watch the Austin school district scramble to make up a portion of its $19.7 million deficit with the proposed closure of 10 (down from 13) schools, I cant help but think we are looking in the wrong direction.

Much stands to be lost: small schools that have been in communities for generations, campus-wide dual language programs so popular the schools are over-enrolled, plus programs like Montessori that have served communities well. And thats only this year. The deficit is set to keep increasing, meaning even more of our public schools could shut down within the decade, leaving a few mega-schools on the outskirts.

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We are a poor district in a wealthy city. We pay three times the property taxes of other Texas cities, and yet were in shambles.

Clearly, we need to demand from lawmakers a fair share of our own resources. Realistically, we cant look to the government for this anytime soon. While public funding is being cut from every kind of service, we can only appeal to the conscience of the new hyper-wealthy class. Austin is home to a would-be trillionaire, 10 billionaires and 32,700 millionaires, many in the multimillions. Imagine having a dual-language program endowed by a philanthropist, bearing their name like the Moodys and Butlers, who have given so much to the performing arts.

I grew up in Travis Heights before it was well off and would trade nothing for my experience at that little elementary school on the edge of Blunn Creek and Stacy Park. For the last 13 years, I have lived next door to Ridgetop Elementary, with my art studio abutting the playground.

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Even before I had a family of my own, I drew creative energy from hearing kids at play. The school is an integral, enriching part of our community. Last year I took the prospective parent tour, moved by all Principal Kara Schultz shared with us: the library with an outdoor area to read under the trees; collective art projects made each year by graduating fifth graders; and the fact that children leave after seven years of dual language, fluent in both English and Spanish. I love how many kids are into chess, and the outdoor cafeteria created during the COVID pandemic. Now, the year before my kids enter kindergarten and pre-K, we are devastated to imagine this thriving place shuttered.

If Ridgetop has a problem, it's over-enrollment. Austinites want dual language for their children: emerging English speakers, heritage Spanish speakers and the whole generation of children growing up in a place where Spanish is essential to our community.

Yes, Im fired up because Im now the parent of two young kids and because its happening literally in my backyard. But I care about Austins public education because Im an Austinite. I grew up here and I take great pride in this city, our natural lands, our culture and all the things that make this a place where so many people want to live. Children need equal, diverse, quality education to become thoughtful citizens and leaders. I don't want to live in a city so wealthy that it doesnt care about education for all its people.

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To help out, go to The Austin Ed Fund and make a tax-deductible donation to the school district.
BEIRUT, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- One government employee was killed, and 11 others were injured on Wednesday in an Israeli airstrike targeting a vehicle in the village of al-Tiri in the Bint Jbeil district in southern Lebanon, the National News Agency (NNA) reported.

Bilal Cheaito, a treasurer of al-Tiri, was killed when a strike hit his vehicle. The blast also wounded 10 students whose school bus was passing nearby, along with the bus driver, said the report.

According to the NNA, the strike set the targeted vehicle ablaze. Civil defense units responded to extinguish the fire, and the wounded were transported to a hospital in Bint Jbeil.

Security sources told Xinhua that the killed was a member of Hezbollah, without providing further details.

A ceasefire agreement between Hezbollah and Israel has been in effect since Nov. 27, 2024, largely ending the clashes that had erupted between the two sides in the wake of the Gaza conflict.

Despite the agreement, the Israeli army occasionally carries out strikes in Lebanon, claiming they are aimed at eliminating Hezbollah "threats," and maintains forces in five main positions in the Lebanese border area. 
BELEM, Brazil, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Bruna Cerqueira, director of the Action Agenda at the 30th Conference of the Parties (COP30) of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, said Tuesday that the Brazilian presidency is focused on turning political commitments into tangible climate solutions.

Speaking at a press briefing on the ninth day of COP30, held through Nov. 21 in the Amazonian city of Belem, Cerqueira assessed progress in negotiations and outlined the core strategy guiding this year's summit.

"We are working across all pillars of the Action Agenda to advance plans that accelerate solutions and move from commitments to results," she said, emphasizing continuity with the work of previous COP presidencies.

Cerqueira detailed the political structure supporting COP30, designed to integrate multiple levels of action. "From the start, we have understood that the COP must be built on four pillars: the leaders' summit, which opens the process; the negotiations; the Action Agenda; and mobilization toward the three objectives we established," she said.

The goals, she added, are to protect multilateralism, speed implementation and connect climate action to people's daily lives.

She also highlighted major advances in financing for Indigenous peoples and local communities. The 1.2 billion U.S. dollars pledged at COP26 was delivered a year early and is now nearly doubled. "At this COP, we are renewing that commitment, expanding it to 2 billion dollars with 30 donors already supporting the proposal," she said, noting Brazil's announcement of new Indigenous land demarcations as part of broader legal and administrative efforts.

Bioeconomy initiatives also took center stage. Following Brazil's G20 declaration, COP30 is moving toward an action plan to set indicators, reduce investor risk and scale up financing.

Among the new tools introduced is the Earth Investment Engine, designed to draw private capital to projects with positive environmental impacts.

Brazil and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations also launched a plan to strengthen fire management by training more than 10,000 local community members, with the goal of sustainably managing 10 million hectares before 2028.

Cerqueira stressed that climate challenges require multiple approaches. "In the real world, we need a combination of solutions, and that is exactly what our Action Agenda proposes," she said. 
Actors of Yue Opera perform at the opening ceremony of the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing held in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Nov. 19, 2025. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

NANJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A forum bringing together mayors and mayoral representatives from 10 countries opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the capital of east China's economic powerhouse province of Jiangsu.

Themed "Flowing Rivers, Converging Future," the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing focuses on sharing urban governance experience and exploring future trends in urban development, offering insights to advance sustainable development among global waterfront cities.

Delegates from countries including Brunei, Egypt, Germany, Malaysia and China are set to engage in a series of dialogues on detailed topics such as cultural heritage protection, green ecological development and smart-city construction.

During the three-day event, they are also scheduled to visit campuses, scenic areas along the Yangtze River, and historic and cultural sites to learn about Nanjing's experience in ecological protection, urban renewal, culture and modern development.

After touring Nanjing's city wall, which has a history of over 600 years, Gan Tian Loo, chairman of the working committee for the historic urban area of Malaysia's Malacca, expressed his admiration for the wisdom of ancient Chinese people.

"Nanjing boasts rich historical and cultural heritage, alongside a vibrant modern cultural and artistic vibe, making it an increasingly attractive destination for Malaysian youth," Gan said. He added that he looks forward to strengthening cooperation on tourism, the economy, trade and education between Malacca and Nanjing.

Li Zhongjun, acting mayor of Nanjing, said the dialogue aims to share Chinese practices to address development challenges in urban governance. He noted that the city will also enhance its exchange with other cities, and strengthen sci-tech, economic and trade cooperation. 

Actors perform at the opening ceremony of the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing held in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Nov. 19, 2025. A forum bringing together mayors and mayoral representatives from 10 countries opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the capital of east China's economic powerhouse province of Jiangsu.

Themed "Flowing Rivers, Converging Future," the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing focuses on sharing urban governance experience and exploring future trends in urban development, offering insights to advance sustainable development among global waterfront cities. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

Guests attend the opening ceremony of the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing held in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Nov. 19, 2025. A forum bringing together mayors and mayoral representatives from 10 countries opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the capital of east China's economic powerhouse province of Jiangsu.

Themed "Flowing Rivers, Converging Future," the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing focuses on sharing urban governance experience and exploring future trends in urban development, offering insights to advance sustainable development among global waterfront cities. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

Actors of Yue Opera perform at the opening ceremony of the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing held in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province, Nov. 19, 2025. A forum bringing together mayors and mayoral representatives from 10 countries opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the capital of east China's economic powerhouse province of Jiangsu.

Themed "Flowing Rivers, Converging Future," the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing focuses on sharing urban governance experience and exploring future trends in urban development, offering insights to advance sustainable development among global waterfront cities. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)

This photo taken on Nov. 19, 2025 shows the opening ceremony of the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing held in Nanjing, east China's Jiangsu Province. A forum bringing together mayors and mayoral representatives from 10 countries opened on Wednesday in Nanjing, the capital of east China's economic powerhouse province of Jiangsu.

Themed "Flowing Rivers, Converging Future," the Global Mayors Dialogue in Nanjing focuses on sharing urban governance experience and exploring future trends in urban development, offering insights to advance sustainable development among global waterfront cities. (Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng)
An airman assigned to the 776th Expeditionary Air Base Squadron receives treatment at the new Joint Medical Aid Station at Chabelley Airfield in Djibouti on Oct. 23, 2025. The upgraded clinic places medical services under one roof, streamlining both emergency response and routine care. (U.S. Air Force)



The recent opening of a medical care facility at Chabelley Airfield in Djibouti is the latest sign the U.S. military is putting down permanent roots at the remote site, which plays a role in projecting American airpower across east Africa.

The new Joint Medical Aid Station will ensure that airmen can maintain the health and readiness required to support the bases mission, the 406th Air Expeditionary Wing said in a statement Tuesday.

Although the services offered are not specified, the facility doubles the trauma treatment capacity at the airfield and also adds mental health treatment rooms, the wing said.

Establishment of the facility indicates a long-term commitment to the region and solidifies the airfields status as an enduring forward operating location in Africa, according to the statement.

The aim is to eventually be able to care not only for airmen at Chabelley, but also for the 25,000 Americans who deploy to the region each year, the wing said.

As operations expand and regional threats increase, the need for on-site medical readiness has become critical, the statement said.

A patient room in the Joint Medical Aid Station at Chabelley Airfield in Djibouti, as seen Oct. 23, 2025. The new medical facility doubles trauma treatment capacity, adds dedicated mental health treatment rooms and provides a single location for medical functions previously split between separate structures. (U.S. Air Force)



Over the years, Chabelley Airfield has evolved from a small commuter outpost into a more permanent base of operations supporting 1,000 personnel, according to the wing.

The airfield was taken over by the Air Force in 2013 and was deemed to have fully operational capability by U.S. Africa Command in 2024.

It has been used for drone operations and other Air Force missions over the years and is positioned several miles away from Camp Lemonnier, AFRICOMs main base in Djibouti.
Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll speaks at the opening ceremony of the AUSA Monday, Oct. 13, 2025, in Washington. (Eric Kayne/Stars and Stripes)



The Army on Tuesday named nine U.S. installations that could receive nuclear microreactors in the coming years as the service looks to the technology for increased and more resilient power production on its bases.

The locations that could receive microreactors by 2030 as part of the Armys new Janus Program are: Fort Benning, Ga.; Fort Bragg, N.C.; Fort Campbell, Ky.; Fort Drum, N.Y.; Fort Hood, Texas; Fort Wainwright, Alaska; Holston Army Ammunition Plant in Tennessee; Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.; and Redstone Arsenal in Alabama.

Army Secretary Dan Driscoll announced the Janus Program last month, pledging to partner with commercial industry to place the small nuclear power reactors on some of the Armys posts which will require more power access in the decades to come as the service increases its use of artificial intelligence capabilities and new-age weaponry. Driscoll and other officials last month declined to name what installations they were considering for the microreactors.

The nine sites were chosen after an evaluation of mission critical installations, energy requirements and resiliency gaps, power infrastructure, environmental and technical considerations, the service said in a news release Tuesday. Officials said it was possible that not all the named installations would receive microreactors in the coming years, but the Army envisions placing them at many more installations in the coming decades.

These early site selections align with the Department of Wars goal of accelerating the pace of deploying on-site nuclear generation at our installations, Jordan Gillis, the Armys assistant secretary for installations, energy and environment, said in a prepared statement. Through the use of the Armys unique nuclear regulatory authorities, we are deploying a resilient, secure and reliable energy supply for critical defense operations and in support of the most lethal land-based fighting force in the world.

Army officials said last month the Janus Program would be a public-private program in which commercial companies own and operate nuclear microreactors on Army installations and under the services oversight.

Microreactors are nuclear reactors about 100 to 1,000 times smaller than conventional nuclear reactors, some of which can be small enough to be transported on a semi-trucks tractor-trailer, according to the Idaho National Laboratory, which oversees much of the Department of Energys nuclear power research. The reactors can produce up to 50 megawatts of power and can function entirely independently of the traditional electric grid, according to the laboratory.

The Pentagons Defense Innovation Unit has given commercial companies until Dec. 15 to submit prototyping bids for the microreactors to be placed at Army installations by the end of 2030. DIU wants the companies to build microreactors capable of producing up to 20 megawatts of power.

Army officials have described the latest generation of microreactors as a significant technological advancement, in safety, security and waste management.

They are safe by design, not by intervention protocols, according to the Army news release. Still, the DIU instructions to commercial bidders require that the microreactors include passive safety features, limits on radiation output, and a mandate that operational controls be accessible only from within the Army installation.

Army officials said last month they would work closely with the local communities surrounding the installations.

The Army shares a commitment to public safety and transparency with our host communities and recognizes that the communities surrounding these installations have vested interest in their operations, the Tuesday statement read. The Army is committed to providing transparent information throughout the planning process and welcomes public engagement and feedback.
A farmer plows on his olive farm in Amman, Jordan on Nov. 22, 2025. " (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua)

AMMAN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Standing in his 13-acre olive orchard in Madaba, central Jordan, Marwan Sleem saw this year's harvest come in far lighter than usual. His trees yielded only 27 tanks of olive oil, nearly half of what he collects in a normal season.

Similar reports are emerging nationwide. Jordan, home to some of the world's oldest olive trees dating back more than 5,400 years, is facing one of its sharpest production declines in recent years.

Approximately 92 percent of Jordan's total area belongs to an arid to semi-arid climate. Olive trees, known for being tough and drought-resistant, thrive in these conditions. In Jordan, many ancient Roman-era olive groves still stand across the country.

Yet this season, even those hardy, centuries-old trees have struggled.

Sleem said olive trees still need sufficient moisture for growth, and the production fall is due to the lack of rainwater. However, he cannot afford water tanks for irrigation and mostly relies on rainwater.

Lawrence Majali, spokesperson for the Ministry of Agriculture, said that, "Production is expected to decrease by an average of 30-40 percent due to poor rainfall and the impacts of climate change, including drought and high temperatures during the flowering and fruit-setting stages."

Environmental experts said Jordan's major olive-growing regions have undergone noticeable climatic changes. "Shorter rainy seasons, frequent droughts, and warmer winters are disrupting the natural cycle of olive trees," said Omar Shoshan, president of the Jordan Environment Union.

Shoshan added that poor autumn and winter precipitation weakens bud formation, while spring heatwaves damage blossoms, sharply limiting yields.

The impact has quickly reached farmers and the national market.

Prices have risen as national output drops to about 18,000 tons, down from the usual 23,000-24,000 tons. A 16-kg tank is now selling for about 130 Jordanian Dinars (about 183 U.S. dollars), compared with roughly 100 Jordanian Dinars last year.

However, the price increase isn't enough to offset the losses suffered by farmers. Mahmoud Omari, spokesperson for the Olive Oil Producers and Mill Owners Syndicate, noted that some farms that used to produce 20 tanks barely made four this year. "So even prices of 120 or 150 Jordanian Dinars per tank do not compensate farmers for their losses."

Meanwhile, many Jordanian households have a tradition of buying enough olive oil for the whole year all at once. The modest price increases are already straining budgets. "It is very expensive this year," said 64-year-old Karema Othman. "Some people can't even afford to buy. It took a lot from our budget."

Omari stressed that the sector needs long-term protection, not only because olive trees make up 72 percent of Jordan's fruit trees, but also because it serves low-income families, provides jobs and income, and is closely tied to local consumption and culture. "The olive season is part of our culture," he said.

For the past decade, Jordan had met its domestic demand of 23,000-24,000 tons annually while exporting about 5,000 tons. But this year, with supply falling below demand, exports were banned starting in September, and import channels are being considered to ease price pressure.

Beyond the current season, Jordan is also working to safeguard its rare and ancient olive varieties, which account for about 15-20 percent of the country's total olive-growing area. Research shows that indigenous strains, such as the Mahras olives of Ajloun, the oldest genetic olive varieties in the Mediterranean basin, is naturally resilient to drought and disease.

Experts believed the sector's future lies in combining traditional methods with climate-smart agricultural practices, including drip irrigation, rainwater harvesting, soil mulching, increasing organic matter, adopting drought-resistant varieties, and improving access to weather and agricultural data.

"Olives are part of who we are," Omari said. "But climate change means we need new tools. Supporting farmers is essential because without them, our heritage and this vital sector cannot survive." 

A farmer compares this year's olives (L) with those of typical year's harvest in Amman, Jordan on Nov. 22, 2025. " (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua)

A farmer checks an olive tree on his farm in Amman, Jordan on Nov. 22, 2025. (Photo by Mohammad Abu Ghosh/Xinhua)
A soldier launches the Merops counter-drone system from the bed of a truck during testing and training on Nov. 18, 2025, at a Polish military training area in Nowa Deba. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



NOWA DEBA, Poland  U.S. soldiers are training alongside Polish and Romanian forces on a counter-drone system rushed to NATOs eastern flank after a recent spate of unmanned aerial incursions across Europe.

U.S. and NATO officials, drawing lessons from the war in Ukraine, have long argued that the alliance needs cheaper ways to counter drones, since firing traditional air-defense systems at them is too expensive and often impractical. That urgency grew after about 20 unmanned aircraft crossed into Polish airspace in September, followed days later by an incursion into Romania.

NATO blamed Russia for those violations, which proved to be the final push for Poland and Romania to purchase the U.S.-made Merops counter-drone system.

The system has been battle-tested in Ukraine, where local forces have used it to shoot down Russian-made Shahed drones and other incoming threats, according to U.S. military officials.

Poland and Romania received their first Merops systems this month, and training alongside U.S. soldiers began here at one of Polands largest military training areas a little over a week ago.

Its very lethal, very effective, but the key piece here is that its cost effective, said Brig. Gen. Curtis King, head of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command.

A U.S. soldier preps the Merops counter-drone system for testing at a Polish military training area in Nowa Deba on Nov. 18, 2025. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



During a demonstration Tuesday, the Merops system sat in the back of a midsize pickup truck. Once launched, its interceptor shot through the air at speeds officials said exceeded 150 mph, identifying drones and passing within feet of them in flight.

Officials said that in a real-life scenario, the interceptor would carry explosives and detonate to destroy its target. Each interceptor costs about $15,000, and the system overall is roughly one-tenth the price of the Shahed drones Moscow builds and employs, they said.

That matters because, until now, responding to incursions often meant scrambling NATO fighter jets, which cost tens of thousands of dollars per flight. And in a conflict like the one playing out in Ukraine, large numbers of interceptors would be needed to counter repeated drone swarms.

A soldier prepares to launch the Merops counter-drone system from the bed of a truck during testing and training on Nov. 18, 2025, at a Polish military training area in Nowa Deba. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)



Another advantage of Merops, made by the company Project Eagle, is its ability to use artificial intelligence to navigate even when satellite and electronic communications are jammed, according to the company.

This is one of many capabilities that NATO nations are going to have to look to employ to defeat the drones, King said, adding that the war in Ukraine shows how quickly modern warfare evolves and how weapons development must keep pace.

U.S. Army Europe and Africa says Merops is the first system fielded since the announcement of the Eastern Flank Deterrence Line, a concept unveiled earlier this year by commander Gen. Christopher Donahue. The plan envisions a mix of manned and robotic forces linked by a shared data network to repel any attack on NATO territory.

Under the concept, low-cost, easily replaceable hardware and software feed live targeting data to front-line robotic platforms, which can strike enemy drones and ground forces while absorbing the first wave of an assault. The goal is to deter an attack or blunt one long enough for NATOs manned units to regain the initiative and launch a counteroffensive.

Army officials say the approach is meant to be scalable and repeatable across the eastern flank, using rapidly deployable technologies that can overwhelm an adversary and deny key terrain.

Its one of several efforts being pushed in Europe to counter future drone attacks, as the U.S. and its allies scramble to find effective, affordable solutions.

American, Polish and Romanian soldiers observe testing of the Merops counter-drone system on Nov. 18, 2025, at a Polish military training area in Nowa Deba. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and Stripes)

Brig. Gen. Curtis King, head of the 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command and Brig. Chris Gent, deputy chief of staff of Transformation and Integration at NATO LANDCOM, speak to reporters at a Merops counter-drone system demonstration in Nowa Deba, Poland, Nov. 18, 2025. (Phillip Walter Wellman/Stars and)



Speaking on the sidelines of the training Tuesday, Lt. Gen. Stanislaw Czosnek, deputy chief of the general staff of the Polish armed forces, said Poland plans eventually to field its own domestically built counter-drone systems but needed a quick solution to fill an immediate capability gap.

The airspace violation we witnessed recently forced us to accelerate, Czosnek said. We want to be safer than we are now. This is a gap filler.

Merops success on the battlefield in Ukraine was a major reason why Poland selected the platform, Czosnek said.

According to King, Merops has been responsible for up to 40% of the Shahed drones shot down by Ukrainian forces. He added that other counter-drone systems are being developed across the alliance that rely on similar radar, with the goal of allowing partners to operate different systems interchangeably.

Sgt. 1st Class Corey Myers, a platoon sergeant with Germany-based 1st Battalion, 57th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, said he and his soldiers found the system intuitive.

Its a simple system to understand, Myers said. If youre good with an Xbox controller, youre good.

The U.S. military does not currently field Merops, but U.S. Army Europe and Africa sent troops to the roughly two-week training event in Poland so they can help train partner forces who adopt it in the future.

Denmark, which also reported drone sightings in September, is planning to purchase Merops technology, The Associated Press reported this month.

It feels extremely important being here, said Sgt. Riley Hiner, another member of 1-57. With all the Shaheds Russia is flying, I think this is the way forward.
Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll meets with soldiers of the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) while visiting Fort Campbell, Ky., on Sept. 9, 2025. (David Resnick/U.S. Army)



Army Secretary Dan Driscoll instructed unit leaders across the service to check in with all their soldiers every day of the holiday season, a time often associated with an increase in suicide attempts.

Driscoll demanded an officer or noncommissioned officer in every formation call, text or visit with their soldiers once every day through Jan. 15 to see if they need help, in a memorandum sent service wide this week.

The holidays can be a high-risk period for self-harm. We know its a problem, it happens every year, so well address it head-on, Driscoll wrote.  This isnt performative  its real for me.

Driscoll, a former armor officer who saw combat in Iraq in 2009, said his initiative was based on efforts in the 11th Airborne Division, where unit leaders have systemically prioritized soldier checks in recent months to combat a once-high suicide rate among the divisions troops at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The efforts, Driscoll wrote, have resulted in a 14-month period with no suicides reported in the division.

For years, the Army  and its sister services  has struggled to bring down the number of suicides in its ranks. The Defense Department began collecting and reporting quarterly surveillance data on service member suicides in 2018 to help guide prevention efforts.

Those efforts have seen mixed results. Suicides were up across the Army  and the military as a whole  in 2023, the last year for which the Pentagon has provided complete data. The Army saw 289 suicides across its entire force, including the National Guard and reserves. Preliminary data from the Defense Suicide Prevention Office for 2024 shows a drop to 260 suicides last year.

The top Army civilian said the prevention effort also needed to be reciprocated by soldiers across the service. He encouraging them to just pick up when their leaders call and relay to them any troubles they were facing.

Seeking help is not weakness  it takes courage, faith and trust that your family, friends and community will accept you and help you, Driscoll wrote. We want to pick you up, share your load and get you moving forward again. There is light beyond the darkness that surrounds you. Just keep fighting through this moment, pick up your phone, and let us help you.

He instructed anyone who needed immediate help or knew of someone in need to call the Military Crisis Line by dialing 988 and pressing 1 to speak with a trained responder.

Every life is sacred, he wrote. Were all in this together and just picking up can save soldiers lives.
Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Army Chief Gen. Randy George appear on the television program Fox and Friends, speaking from Washington on May 1, 2025. Driscoll and George are being dispatched to Ukraine this week for unscheduled talks, according to news reports. (Alexander Kubitza/U.S. Navy)



STUTTGART, Germany  The U.S. Armys top two leaders will arrive in Ukraine this week for unannounced high-level talks expected to focus on boosting efforts to negotiate an end to the countrys war with Russia.

President Donald Trump dispatched Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Army Chief of Staff Gen. Randy George to Ukraine, where discussions on hastening an end to the three-year-old conflict were expected to get underway Wednesday, The Wall Street Journal and Politico reported.

The top Army leaders also were expected to discuss how to move forward with a potential deal on exchanging drone technology with Ukraine, which has become an innovator of such weapons systems during the war, the news organizations reported Tuesday, citing unidentified U.S. officials.

The meeting in Kyiv comes at a critical time for Ukraine, which has faced an onslaught of Russian drone and aerial bombardment attacks in recent weeks.

Ukraine also has been scrambling to deal with a growing manpower crisis as more military-aged men flee to the West to avoid fighting.

We have huge problems with soldiers, with human resources, Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko told Politico last week.

Although Trump has called for an end to the war, there has been little indication that Russia is prepared to end the conflict. However, the administration has quietly been negotiating with Moscow, Washington-based news organization Axios reported Tuesday.

A 28-point peace plan is being drafted, Axios said, citing U.S. and Russian officials. The proposal is said to involve security guarantees for Ukraine, but its unclear how territorial control of eastern Ukraine would be handled.

The U.S. has begun briefing Ukrainian and European officials about the concept, the report said.

Separately, there are other signs of cooperation between the U.S. and Ukraine.

On Tuesday, the State Department cleared a potential sale of Patriot air defense system sustainment gear to Ukraine for an estimated $105 million.

Ukraine has requested the equipment, which includes upgraded launchers, to strengthen its ability to defend against Russian attacks.

The U.S. is also poised to bolster gas supplies to Ukraine, which has faced repeated attacks on its energy infrastructure.

The American Embassy in Vilnius, Lithuania, said Tuesday that a shipment of liquefied natural gas from the U.S. had arrived this week in the country, where it will be processed for onward movement.

This will mark the first Ukraine-bound shipment of natural gas to come through Lithuania, the embassy said.
A Fort Hood soldier was arraigned Wednesday for a second time on charges related to his role following the 2023 death of his sergeant after a night of heavy drinking in on-post housing. (Rose L. Thayer/Stars and Stripes)



A Fort Hood soldier was arraigned Wednesday for a second time on charges related to his role following the 2023 death of his sergeant after a night of heavy drinking in on-post housing.

Spc. Rene Heber, 25, is charged with accessory to murder after the fact, accessory to manslaughter after the fact and obstructing justice in the death of Sgt. Alfredo Martinez, according to charging documents. He pleaded not guilty.

Spc. Nicholas Lowery was charged with murder and obstructing justice for Martinezs death, according to court records. He pleaded not guilty, and his jury trial begins Jan. 5, according to the Armys online court docket.

Martinez died from a gunshot wound in the early morning hours of Aug. 27, 2023, according to court records. The two soldiers initially told criminal investigators that Martinez shot himself. As investigators gathered evidence, they became skeptical and brought both soldiers in for questioning.

Lowery changed his story and told investigators that he shot Martinez. Heber told them this was not true and stuck with his original assertion that Martinez was responsible for his own death, according to court documents.

All three soldiers were assigned to the 1st Cavalry Divisions Sustainment Support Brigade.

At a preliminary hearing in August to determine whether Heber should face charges at a court-martial, Maj. John Architzel, the prosecutor, said the evidence in the case included an experts report stating the firing range of the weapon was too far to be self-inflicted. The expert believed the gun was fired from at least 3 feet away, he said.

Maj. ReAnne Wentz, Hebers attorney, said at the August hearing that Hebers story had never changed about what happened that night, and the prosecution had decided on a narrative and was now working to make the evidence fit.

The court-martial process has been complicated for both soldiers. Lowerys case has gone twice to the Army Court of Criminal Appeals for the higher court to rule on decisions made on pretrial motions.

In the latest decision, released Oct. 10, the appeals court agreed with military judge Col. Joseph Venghaus that Hebers statement contradicting Lowerys can be used during the court-martial.

The first set of charges against Heber were withdrawn May 20, 2024, according to the online court docket. The new round included an additional assault charge for unlawfully pushing another soldier, a corporal, while detained in the Bell County Jail in February 2024. The corporals name is redacted from the charge sheet.

Heber is no longer in pretrial confinement. The 1st Cavalry Division, which prosecuted his case the first time, did not provide comment on why the charges were withdrawn. The Armys Office of Special Trial Counsel is now prosecuting the case against Heber.
U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. Maj. Gerardo Banda, senior enlisted leader of the Marine Corps Intelligence School, left; Col. Allan Chiu, commanding officer of Marine Corps Intelligence School; and Lt. Col. Robert Benda, director of Weapons Training Battalion Training Command, discuss training at the Urban Training Center on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va., in August 2025. (Harleigh Faulk/U.S. Marine Corps)



The Selected Marine Corps Reserve is offering corporals through staff sergeants thousands of dollars to remain in certain military occupational specialties, the service announced in an administrative message Wednesday.

The largest lump sum is a $20,000 retention bonus for corporals through staff sergeants who agree to continue to serve in the SMCR for 36 months. There are lump sum bonuses of $10,000 for 24 months of service, as well as $5,000 for 12 months. Marines who agree to three years of service for certain specialties in specific units and locations could be eligible for a $5,000 unit kicker in addition.

Some of the 100 jobs listed for retention bonuses include intelligence specialists, combat engineer, infantry unit leader and flight equipment technician.

Recruiting and retention of service members, across the military service branches, has been a priority for several years as the military failed to meet its recruiting goals due to the COVID-19 pandemic, tight job markets and recruits not being able to meet fitness and academic standards.

All military services in fiscal year 2025 met recruiting and retention goals, and the Marine Corps has consistently achieved its recruiting mission since 1994.
ASTRO America CEO Neal Orringer speaks at the groundbreaking ceremony for the Guam Additive Manufacturing and Materials Accelerator, or GAMMA, facility in Dededo, Guam, Nov. 6, 2025. (ASTRO America)



A Navy-backed 3D-printing lab under construction on Guam aims to slash the monthlong wait for ship and infrastructure parts on the island by producing them locally.

The Guam Additive Manufacturing and Materials Accelerator, or GAMMA, held a ceremonial groundbreaking on Nov. 7 for its 8,000-square-foot site in Dededos Pacific Industrial Park. The $40 million project is led by the Applied Science & Technology Research Organization of America, or ASTRO America.

Once complete, the facility will house equipment for measuring, testing and designing metal and plastic industrial components. Although the building is now only a concrete shell, the Maryland-based research institute hopes to have it operating as early as spring, said GAMMA general manager Alex Benham.

It might not be full-scale manufacturing, but we can produce parts by March or April, he told Stars and Stripes on a Nov. 12 video call.

Despite its cost and planned capabilities  including a $5 million Navy investment with another $12 million expected  the lab is not intended to design new components.

They just want to be able to get parts now. They dont need to be better than the past ones  they just need to be as good, Benham said. The problems were solving with additive [manufacturing] is entirely a logistical problem.

Benham said GAMMAs primary customer will be the Navy, particularly the five nuclear-powered fast-attack vessels in Submarine Squadron 15 at Naval Base Guam. Among the most in-demand items are pump impellers  fan-like parts that move fluid through pumps.

Its a common part that is classically hard to design and hard to manufacture, but [additive manufacturing] comes in and kind of solves all that, he said.

The Air Force and Marine Corps are also evaluating the labs potential, especially for producing ground-vehicle components that corrode quickly in Guams tropical climate, Benham said. Civilian infrastructure operators, including power, water and emergency services, may also benefit from the ability to reverse-engineer and reproduce parts in weeks rather than months.

GAMMA employs Benham, one local staff member and five interns. He expects the workforce to grow to around 15 within the next two years and to roughly 100 within six years.

That ramp-up includes academic support. ASTRO America is working with the University of Guam to establish a mechanical engineering program linked to the Colorado School of Mines. Students would complete two years of general engineering on Guam and two years of specialized study in Colorado.

Of course, the hope is we can hire a bunch of those students coming out of the program with the Colorado School of Mines to work in the facility, Benham said.
Adm. Stuart Munsch, center, takes the flag for Joint Force Command Naples during a ceremony in Naples, Italy, Nov. 19, 2025. The flag was passed to Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, commander of U.S. European Command and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and then to Adm. George Wikoff, who took command from Munsch. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)



NAPLES, Italy  A hard-charging fighter pilot who led the Navy in the Middle East took the helm of the services top job in Europe and Africa this week from a submariner credited with helping to reshape the way the U.S. military fights wars.

Adm. George Wikoff took command of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Joint Force Command Naples from Adm. Stuart Munsch on Wednesday during a ceremony at the NATO installation in Naples.

Wikoff most recently led U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. 5th Fleet, coming into the role in February 2024 as tensions soared in the Middle East and Navy forces in the Red Sea came under fire from Iranian-back Houthi militants in Yemen.

Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, the head of U.S. European Command and NATO Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Gen. Dagvin Anderson, commander of U.S. Africa Command, presided over the ceremony, which was attended by NATO allies, Italian and other European officials and U.S. service members.

With war raging in Ukraine, Russian threats in the High North and Chinas increasing activity in the Arctic, Wikoff assumes command of Naval Forces Europe at a time when U.S. and NATO adversaries are working together in ways unimaginable just a few years ago, Grynkewich said during the ceremony.

You have my full trust and confidence as well as that of all the military units from across the 32 nations of our alliance, he said, addressing Wikoff.

Anderson also delivered remarks at the ceremony, telling all of Wikoffs shipmates to strap in.

Your new commander will move fast and has little tolerance for inaction, Anderson said.

Adm. Stuart Munsch, outgoing commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Joint Force Command Naples, center, stands with his successor, Adm. George Wikoff, and Gen. Alexus Grynkewich, head of U.S. European Command and NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Europe, during a ceremony Nov. 19, 2025, in Naples, Italy. (Alison Bath/Stars and Stripes)

The incoming commander of U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa and Joint Force Command Naples, Adm. George Wikoff, left, and the outgoing commander, Adm. Stuart Munsch, on Nov. 19, 2025, during a ceremony in Naples, Italy. (Flickr/NATO - JFC Naples)



Wikoffs Navy career spans more than three decades, including stints in fighter squadrons VF-102 and VF-154 aboard the aircraft carriers USS America and USS Kitty Hawk, respectively, according to his service biography.

He also served on the joint staff as deputy director for operations and as vice director, among numerous leadership roles.

His predecessor, Munsch, addressed the changing character of war by helping to shape a U.S. military strategy that came to fruition during his leadership in Europe and Africa, Anderson said Wednesday.

As you brought these insights here, innovating, experimenting, you quickly reorganized the headquarters and met the changing challenges of war, Anderson said to Munsch, who took command in June 2022 and has served in the Navy for 40 years.

Anderson noted that Munschs push for innovation and experimentation included the establishment of a task force focused on integrating robotic and autonomous systems into fleet operations.

Grynkewich said Munsch brought sensibility, intellect and a keen understanding of adversaries to his role.

He referred to Munsch as someone who thought deeply about the future of warfare, the human side of conflict, and understood the geopolitical undertones of the world we (are) facing today.

Seldom have I met a more capable, humble officer, Grynkewich added.

During the ceremony, Munsch was awarded the NATO Meritorious Medal, the U.S. Legion of Merit and ltalian Meritorious Medal. It wasnt clear Wednesday what his next assignment is.
In Train Dreams, adapted from Denis Johnsons 2011 novella, Joel Edgerton plays a logger and railroad worker named Robert Grainier. (Netflix/AP)



Its popular in Hollywood to follow the tax credits wherever they go, but that was never going to be much of an option for Train Dreams.

When director Clint Bentley embarked on adapting Denis Johnson s 2011 novella, he knew the books early 20th century Idaho and Washington setting would take him into the Pacific Northwest forests. Johnsons book is a small miracle: a slender and quiet tale of the simple life of a logger and railroad worker named Robert Grainier. He's a small, almost infinitesimal piece in a larger drama of time's march forward and the inexorable maw of progress cutting through an untamed landscape.

In scouting for Train Dreams, Bentley, 40, found it harder than ever to find the old growth forests of the book. If Train Dreams is about unearthing a forever-lost American past, locating it for the film was fittingly elusive.

When we were looking for locations, it proved the point of the film, Bentley says. Its hard to find those old trees. There are protected areas you can get to. We drove three hours north from Spokane, up to this grove of old trees by the Canadian border. You get there after a hike and its not that big of a stand of old trees. Its the few they couldnt get to.

Train Dreams, meditative and radiant, seeks to evoke an ever-changing land upon which Grainier anonymously labors. This is a time of seemingly slower pace but one constantly in flux, with forests being cleared, railroads being laid and lives being sacrificed along the way.

The thing thats beautiful about the book is that it feels like an elegy for a lost time. Thats what I wanted the movie to feel like, Bentley says. And I think a big part of that is we look around and we see, Oh, that was a forest, and now theres a Costco there.

Bentleys film, currently playing in theaters before streaming Nov. 21 on Netflix, is resonating with audiences in part because of how deeply un-Hollywood it is. Grainier, played by Joel Edgerton in the film, doesnt talk much. He isnt leading a heroic or even particularly notable life. Its more that life is happening to him.

What hooked me was about the significance of what we would otherwise presume of an insignificant life, Edgerton says. We go to the cinema to watch what we hope for ourselves, that we would be more active and in control and heroic. But I think the majority of us share similarities to Robert in that we dont presume to have full control of things in the world, and we absorb the blows of the world. Were not the controllers of our universe.

Joel Edgerton, whose Robert doesnt talk much and isnt leading a heroic or notable life, says of Train Dreams: What hooked me was about the significance of what we would otherwise presume of an insignificant life. We go to the cinema to watch what we hope for ourselves, that we would be more active and in control and heroic. But I think the majority of us share similarities to Robert in that we dont presume to have full control of things in the world, and we absorb the blows of the world. Were not the controllers of our universe. (Netflix/AP)



Adapting a cherished favorite of 21st century literature

When Train Dreams, which first debuted at the Sundance Film Festival, was premiering at the Toronto Film Festival, Edgerton, Bentley and Greg Kwedar, the co-screenwriter, gathered to discuss a movie that tends to inspire soulful rumination. Bentley and Kwedar, the writing-producer partners behind 2024s Sing Sing and 2021s Jockey, have shown a rare knack for crafting textured American stories.

We want to build our stories from the dirt up, says Kwedar, 41.

Bentley and Kwedar write together but take turns directing. Their script to Sing Sing, the acclaimed real-life inspired prison drama populated by formerly incarcerated men, was Oscar nominated. (Clarence Maclin and John Divine G Whitfield were also credited as writers.)

Yet little about Johnsons novella, first published in a 2002 issue of The Paris Review, screams movie adaptation. It's harsh and unsentimental. Grainier experiences tragedy. His life is mostly hard and remains a mystery to him. But it contains small joys and moments of epiphany.

Over the years, Train Dreams has gone from a cherished cult favorite to an established classic, an American epic writ small, as one critic called it. In 2012, Train Dreams was a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize. Last year, The New York Times included it on a list of the best books of the 21st century, praising how its soft-spoken protagonist bears witness to the real-time formation of a raw, insatiable nation.

Edgerton read it around the time Train Dreams was published as a book, and inquired about the adaptation rights. But they were taken.

I remember thinking there would be a great movie in here, but how difficult of an undertaking it would be, Edgerton says. The fear would be how much would you have to bend Denis work and alter it so much that it lost a few of the elements so beautiful about it. In order to put it on the screen, you might end up destroying the best of it.

Years later, when Bentley and Kwedar began writing the adaptation, they proceeded carefully, trying to stick to the spirit of the book while reshaping it for film. As they describe the reverence they had for the book (The quality of the prose, you feel like youre in the presence of greatness, Kwedar says), Edgerton smiles.

I just had the image of someone coming to you guys and going, Hey, can you restore this church for me? Edgerton says.

Felicity Jones, left, plays Gladys, the wife of Robert Grainier (Joel Edgerton), right, in Train Dreams. (Netflix/AP)

William H. Macy, center, plays a well-traveled explosives expert in Train Dreams. (Netflix/AP)



Filming in the shadows of giants

The way Train Dreams evolves as a series of disjointed encounters, with narration and lyricism filling in between, has led to a lot of comparisons to the films of Terrence Malick. The films supporting cast includes Felicity Jones as Gladys, Grainiers wife, William H. Macy as a well-traveled explosives expert and Kerry Condon as a woman Grainier meets later in life. Like the book, the movie slowly, subtly gathers a force that you only fully feel in the movies final, profound moments.

Someone said, Across this whole movie were going to build a fire and at the end of it, were going to light it, Bentley says.

You just hope the box of matches isnt wet, Edgerton jokes.

But they collectively trusted that Train Dreams could get there. They knew Johnson's book held a recognizable truth.

I had a feeling that if I feel these things, someone else will have them, too, says Edgerton, who gives one of his finest performances with only a smattering of dialogue. And theyll reach into this film and see their own love in it, their own joy and it might allow them to reflect on their own loss and grief.

There weren't only the words to go by, either. While shooting, the filmmakers felt dwarfed by the immensity of the Pacific Northwest forest around them. Grainier is often shown in the bottom of wide shots with trees looming overhead. On their outdoor sets, ancient stumps of even larger trees could be seen, too.

Just being in the presence of these trees stirs some deep part of your soul, Kwedar. And you can't avoid that. You can blindly go about this work, but there's still that latent pull towards that deeper question of the cost of things.
A cargo pallet is parachuted from a C-17 Globemaster III over Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Nov. 8, 2025, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center combat training. (Samarion Hicks/U.S. Army)



JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii  In just four days, an Army aerial delivery unit from Alaska packed more than 160 tons of gear onto parachute-rigged pallets to be dropped over Hawaiis Big Island  a logistical surge at the heart one of the services largest Pacific combat exercises.

The 4th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company, based at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, underpins airdrop operations for U.S. forces across the Indo-Pacific, especially in remote spots where parachuting supplies is the only lifeline.

Soldiers with the 4th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company strap a Humvee onto a steel pallet at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 6, 2025. (Wyatt Olson/Stars and Stripes)

Soldiers with the 4th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company oversee the loading of a Humvee onto a pallet at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 6, 2025. (Wyatt Olson/Stars and Stripes)



The uniqueness of the Pacific area is that its vast, Capt. Cody Poos, the companys commander, said Nov. 6 as about 60 soldiers prepared pallets inside a joint base hangar.

During the 15-day Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center exercise, which ended Monday, the company loaded everything from Humvees to barrels of water onto specialized 8-, 12- and 16-foot steel pallets.

Army Capt. Cody Poos, commander of the 4th Quartermaster Theater Aerial Delivery Company, stands by barrels of water at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 6, 2025. (Wyatt Olson/Stars and Stripes)

Soldiers and airmen load a C-17 Globemaster III at Joint-Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Nov. 8, 2025, with a Humvee slated for an airdrop over the Big Island of Hawaii in support of the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center exercise. (Samarion Hicks/U.S. Army)



Each pallet was rigged with an elaborate system of parachutes, the first of which pulls the load out the back of an Air Force C-17 Globemaster III followed by additional chutes that carry it safely to the ground.

The pallets were dropped from about 1,000 feet onto the Pohakuloa Training Area, a sprawling expanse on Hawaii Island used heavily by the 25th Infantry Division during the drills. The unit later recovered the pallets for reuse.

Supply pallets parachute onto the Pohakuloa Training Area, Hawaii, Nov. 8, 2025, as part of Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center combat training. (U.S. Army)



So if you need something quick, yes, barges can move, and boats can move, but its not going to be quick, Poos said. Yes, they can go to seaports, but theres many islands, many locations, that just dont have a deep enough draft or deep enough port. So aerial delivery gives that option. You can reach farther, you can reach faster, you can reach more precisely.
The headquarters for the Okinawa Prefectural Police is pictured in April 2025. (Keishi Koja/Stars and Stripes)



Police have accused a U.S. Navy sailor on Okinawa of inappropriately touching a Japanese girl over the summer, adding to a string of offenses that have roiled the island community the past two years.

The sailor  an unidentified man in his 20s  is accused of carrying out nonconsensual indecent acts against a teenage girl in June, a spokeswoman for Okinawa prefectures Military Base Affairs Division said by phone Wednesday.

Police sent the case to the Naha Public Prosecutors Office and notified the prefecture on Nov. 7, she added. Prosecutors, not police, decide charges under Japans legal system.

The girl is younger than 17, an Okinawa Prefectural Police spokesman said by phone Wednesday.

The sailor, assigned to Fleet Activities Okinawa, was issued an alleged offense notice by Kadena police on Nov. 7, U.S. Naval Forces Japan spokesman Cmdr. Paul Macapagal said by email Wednesday. The sailor is in U.S. custody, Macapagal said later by phone.

He declined further comment in the email due to Japanese legal proceedings.

Police allege the sailor touched the girl outdoors somewhere on Okinawa. She reported the incident to police that day, the spokesman said.

The case emerges as Okinawa continues to grapple with a series of high-profile sexual assault investigations involving U.S. troops. Japanese prosecutors have indicted four U.S. service members over the past two years.

In December, the Naha District Court convicted Senior Airman Brennon Washington of kidnapping and sexually assaulting a minor. In June, the court convicted Marine Lance Cpl. Jamel Clayton of strangling and attempting to sexually assault a woman. Both men have appealed.

On Tuesday, Marine Pfc. Austin Wedington pleaded not guilty to sexually assaulting a Japanese woman on Camp Foster in March but admitted to injuring another woman. A fourth case, against Marine Lance Cpl. Michael Hofmaster, is still pending.

Those cases  along with at least one other that was later dropped  triggered public backlash. The governments of Japan and Okinawa, along with Okinawa Gov. Denny Tamaki, lodged formal protests with the U.S. military and government. Okinawa has also pressed Tokyo to revise the status of forces agreement governing U.S. troops in Japan.

In response, U.S. Forces Japan imposed stricter liberty rules in October 2024, including a ban on off-base drinking between 1 a.m. and 5 a.m. and police patrols of nightlife districts in Naha and Okinawa city.

On Nov. 10, the prefectures base affairs division responded to the June incident by requesting additional measures from the Navy, the Okinawa Defense Bureau and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Okinawa Liaison Office, the division spokeswoman said.

The incident was extremely regrettable, she said, adding that the division asked for stronger preventative steps, including a review of the content of training provided by the U.S. military and thorough education.

Some Japanese government officials are required to speak with the press on condition of anonymity.
FRANKFURT, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Participants at a finance summit held here on Wednesday called for enhanced dialogue and cooperation across financial markets between China and Europe.

With the theme "Bridging Capital: A New Silk Road for Financial Investment," the Sino-European Finance Summit brought together nearly 200 representatives from the political, financial, legal, and real economy sectors.

Chen Longjian, Country Head of the Bank of China Frankfurt Branch, called for deeper mutual understanding of market needs and regulatory frameworks, and efforts to establish a more stable and comprehensive foundation for long-term cooperation.

Thomas Richter, CEO of the German Investment Funds Association (BVI), noted that BVI had recently collaborated with the Bank of China on an "Investment in China" guide to help European institutions better understand and access China's capital markets.

"We have mutual interests in our respective markets. This is a key starting point for creating an environment and framework for mutual exchange," Richter said.

Wang Bo, deputy general manager of the Shanghai Stock Exchange, said that financial collaboration is not a one-way endeavor but rather a "shared path." He encouraged both sides to deepen trust, align regulatory standards, link financial products, and jointly develop market ecosystems.

Nicolas Zippelius, a member of the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Economic Cooperation and Development of the German Bundestag, said the co-hosting of the summit by BVI and the Bank of China sent a "powerful signal" of Europe's and Germany's commitment to maintaining an open dialogue with China on the future of financial markets.

Zippelius pointed to key areas of potential cooperation, including continued market opening, joint global development initiatives, and strengthening shared standards. He advocated for "ongoing but evolving cooperation" based on principles of openness, sustainability, and innovation.

The summit aims to provide a platform for asset managers, banks, stock exchanges, and regulators to exchange views on the challenges and opportunities in EU-China financial cooperation, underscoring both sides' willingness to expand collaboration amid global economic uncertainty. 
A Patriot missile launcher stands ready at an airfield in eastern Poland on Jan. 23, 2025. (Alexander Watkins/U.S. Army)



The U.S. has approved a potential sale of equipment to Ukraine to sustain and upgrade its Patriot missile systems for up to $105 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency made the announcement in a news release Tuesday.

The equipment and services include:

Upgrade of M901 launchers to M903 configuration.

Classified and unclassified prescribed load lists, which specify the types and quantities of missiles to be carried.

All other necessary services, spare parts, support, training and accessories.

M903 launchers allow the deployment of various Patriot missiles, including the PAC-3 MSE, which has superior targeting and interception capabilities.

The proposed sale will improve Ukraines ability to meet current and future threats by further equipping it to conduct self-defense and regional security missions with a more robust local sustainment capability, the release said.

The principal contractors will be RTX Corporation, in Arlington, Va., and Lockheed Martin, in Bethesda, Md. Implementation would require five additional government and 15 contractor representatives to support training.

It is the latest attempt by Ukraine to bolster its military as the war against Russia nears four years. Russia invaded on Feb. 24, 2022.

Ukraine on Monday signed a letter of intent to buy up to 100 Rafale warplanes, drones, air defense systems and other key equipment from France over the next 10 years, as part of efforts to strengthen the countrys long-term security.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who signed the document with French President Emmanuel Macron, called it a historic deal at a joint news conference at the Elysee presidential palace. The letter is a preliminary commitment of Ukraine stating its interest in buying a series of French defense equipment.

Ukraine recently received more U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems from Germany.

More Patriots are now in Ukraine and being put into operation, Zelenskyy said on social media late Sunday. Of course, more systems are needed to protect key infrastructure sites and our cities across the entire territory of our state.

NATO is coordinating regular deliveries of large weapons packages to Ukraine. European allies and Canada are buying much of the equipment from the United States.

Contributing: The Associated Press
Soldiers with the Indiana National Guard National Guard provide security during the 2021 inauguration in Washington, D.C., Jan. 20, 2021. (Tackora Hand/U.S. Army National Guard)



(Tribune News Service)  Indiana Gov. Mike Braun is deploying 300 Indiana National Guard soldiers to the nations capital to support President Donald Trumps strategy of using military personnel to promote public safety in Washington, D.C.

The soldiers, mostly based in Gary and Bloomington, will first report to Camp Atterbury for training prior to departing for Washington in December on a mission expected to last up to four months.

Acting alongside the Trump-led D.C. National Guard, the Hoosiers will be tasked with aiding local law enforcement and other civilian agencies in their efforts to reduce crime and property damage in Washington.

Hoosiers are proud of our guardsmen, who are well-trained and fully prepared for this mission, Braun said. We are grateful for their service and support in our nations capital.

The Republican president ordered the National Guard onto the streets of Washington in August after he deemed the city under siege from violent crime, among the most dangerous places in the world, and a national disgrace.

Trump spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt claimed Wednesday the deployment of the National Guard from D.C. and at least eight states has made the nations capital safer than at any time in recent memory  even though many soldiers spend their days doing trash pickup, landscaping and other beautification projects, rather than directly supporting law enforcement.

Braun, a Republican, said the Indiana troops are replacing National Guard soldiers from other states, whose D.C. deployments are slated to end Nov. 30.

 National Guard soldiers and airmen are uniquely qualified to help in these types of situations. Our Hoosier guardsmen regularly prepare, train and work side-by-side with civilian first responders, and our guardsmen are ready for this mission as well, said Maj. Gen. Larry Muennich, Indiana National Guard adjutant general.

FBI data show the violent crime rate in Indianapolis last year was slightly less than Washington. Though neither city even ranked in the top 25.

Braun has not publicly indicated any interest in deploying the National Guard to Indiana cities to help with crime despite a plea from Republican Attorney General Todd Rokita after 14 people were shot and 4 stabbed last weekend in Indianapolis, the state capital.

This is never-ending crisis with no end in sight. Local and state leaders should be using every tool available to keep people safe, Rokita said.

The D.C. deployment comes days after the president chided the governor for failing to advance an early partisan redrawing of Indianas congressional district boundaries.

8 arresting cartoons about Donald Trumps crackdown on crime in Washington, D.C.

The nations top cartoonists react to the Trump administrations decision to take control of the Washington police force and send the FBI and the National Guard to patrol the streets of the nations capital.

 2025 The Times (Munster, Ind.).

Visit www.nwitimes.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
Navy sailors conduct a crash and salvage training exercise on the flight deck of the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Theodore Roosevelt on Sept. 11, 2025. (Tyler Harstad/U.S. Navy)



WASHINGTON  Serious U.S. military aviation mishaps rose significantly between 2020 and 2024, killing 90 people and costing billions in damage, according to new Pentagon data provided to Democratic senator Elizabeth Warren of Massachusetts.

There were a total of 4,820 mishaps from October 2019 to July 2024, including 222 of the most severe Class A incidents, which result in damage of at least $2.5 million, destroy aircraft, or lead to fatalities or permanent full disability.

The rate of such accidents rose from 1.30 mishaps per 100,000 flight hours in 2020 to 2.02 mishaps per 100,000 flight hours in 2024  an increase of 55%, according to Warren.

Those mishaps killed 90 service members and Defense Department civilian employees, destroyed 89 aircraft and cost the military $9.4 billion. There were 25 fatalities, 14 destroyed aircraft and costs of $1.7 billion in the first half of the 2024 budget year alone, according to the data.

These data reveal that [the Defense Department] must make additional efforts to improve aviation safety, and that Congress must act, said Warren in a letter sent Tuesday to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth.

The senator has partnered with Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, both members of the Senate Armed Services Committee, on an amendment included in the Senates annual defense policy bill that would require more transparency from the militarys safety investigation boards.

The boards identify root factors and safety issues that contribute to aviation accidents, but their reports are not made public or provided to lawmakers.

If adopted by the House and Senate as part of the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, the measure would give lawmakers access to summaries of investigations over the past three years and help Congress in its oversight role of preventing accidents, Warren said.

The data provided by the Pentagon shows the Marine Corps had the highest average rates of Class A mishaps out of all the military branches, with a 194% increase from 2020 to 2024. In 2023, the services commandant ordered all Marine units to review their approach to safety after two aircraft crashes within days of each other killed four Marines.

Aviation mishaps continued across all the services this year.

In January, an Army helicopter collided with a commercial passenger plane over Washington, D.C., killing 67 people. The Navy has lost several F/A-18 Super Hornet fighter jets to mishaps, including incidents this spring where two jets fell off the deck of the USS Harry S. Truman aircraft carrier.

Most recently in October, a Super Hornet jet and a helicopter assigned to the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz crashed into the South China Sea within 30 minutes of each other.

Warren said she is seeking more recent crash data from the Pentagon as well as information on how the military is addressing the rising rate of accidents.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Christopher Collier, left, 801st Rapid Engineer Deployable Heavy Operational Repair Squadron of Engineers Training Squadron fire protection team, and Airman 1st Class Jaremy Wright, 325th Civil Engineer Squadron fire protection firefighter, participate in a fluorine-free foam training exercise at Tyndall Air Force Base, Fla., April 9, 2024. Fluorine-free foam contains no PFAS compounds. (Zeeshan Naeem/U.S. Air Force)



WASHINGTON  Senate Democrats are demanding a reversal of the Pentagons decision earlier this year to delay the cleanup of forever chemicals at military installations around the U.S., arguing the postponed timetables will harm service members and communities.

Some 150 military sites have been given revised timelines for cleanups of chemicals known as PFAS, commonly found in firefighting foam and extensively used for decades by the military in training exercises that led to soil and groundwater contamination.

The Pentagon produced the new cleanup timetables at the end of March, pushing back the time frame for collecting information on the extent of contamination and studies to evaluate cleanup options for some installations by nearly a decade. The delays were a marked change from a timetable the Pentagon released in December 2024 under former President Joe Bidens administration.

Nearly 30 Senate Democrats, led by Kirsten Gillibrand, of New York, called the delays unacceptable in a letter sent Wednesday to Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. The senators are requesting the Pentagon revert to the timetable released last year and accelerate efforts to remediate PFAS contamination on military sites.

The Pentagon did not respond to a request for comment.

At least 700 military sites in all 50 states are known or suspected to have pollution from PFAS, which is short for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. The chemicals linger in the environment and in people and have been linked to certain types of cancer as well as decreased fertility and developmental delays in children.

The Defense Department has spent at least $2.6 billion addressing PFAS contamination since military communities began detecting high levels of the chemicals in their drinking water in 2017. Remediation is expected to take decades and cost billions of dollars, according to a February report by the Government Accountability Office.

Further delaying cleanups will only increase the health and economic costs to service members and communities across the country, senators warned in their letter to Hegseth. They also expressed alarm at what they said was a lack of transparency by the Pentagon in notifying stakeholders about the change in cleanup timelines.

Service members, their families, and the communities surrounding contaminated military installations need to be able to make informed decisions about their health, the senators wrote.

The push by Democrats comes as Republican-led legislation seeks to undo restrictions on the Pentagons use of PFAS.

The House and Senate versions of defense policy and spending bills for 2026 call for delaying a phaseout of PFAS firefighting foam and reducing funding for the cleanup of contaminated sites. Other provisions lift a moratorium on incinerating firefighting foam and rescind prohibitions on the militarys ability to buy everyday products made with PFAS, such as cookware and carpets.

Lawmakers are now negotiating the final version of the National Defense Authorization Act, which sets policies for the Pentagon, and plan to vote on the legislation in December. Congress has until the end of January to pass an accompanying spending bill for the Pentagon under the deal that ended the government shutdown last week.
A package of bills led by Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., seeks to strengthen protections for immigrant veterans who have been deported or are in deportation proceedings. (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement)



WASHINGTON  Democratic lawmakers on the Senate Veterans Affairs Committee are backing a package of bills that would stop the deportation of immigrants who are veterans and make it easier for immigrants with military service to become U.S. citizens.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth, D-Ill., an Army National Guard veteran and committee member, is leading the legislation, which would strengthen protections for veterans who have been deported or are in deportation proceedings. Veterans with convictions for violent crimes would be ineligible.

Sen. Richard Blumenthal, of Connecticut, the top Democrat on the committee, is a sponsor of the bill package, along with Sen. Ruben Gallego, D-Ariz., and Sen. Mazie Hirono, D-Hawaii, both committee members.

I fought in Iraq, and I know that on the battlefield, what matters isnt whether you have the right papers, its whether youre willing to put on the uniform and risk your life for this country. If youre willing to do that, you deserve a clear, fair path to citizenship, said Gallego, a Marine Corps veteran.

Gallego accused President Donald Trumps administration of targeting immigrant service members and veterans.

The number of veterans whove been removed from the U.S. in immigration crackdowns is not known, because federal agencies do not routinely track the data, according to the Government Accountability Office.

The Veterans Visa and Protection Act, the HOPE Act and I-VETS Act are a package of bills that Duckworth reintroduced last week after the legislation failed to advance to a final vote in Congress in 2023.

Duckworth described the package as common-sense bills. These veterans fought for this country, and its past time we fought for them, too, she said.

Other Democratic sponsors of individual bills or the entire package include Sen. Ron Wyden, Oregon; Sen. Jacky Rosen, Nevada; Sen. Andy Kim, New Jersey; and Sen. John Fetterman, Pennsylvania.

The Veterans Visa and Protection Act would stop the deportation of immigrant veterans who are not violent offenders and create a visa program for processing veterans as lawful permanent residents after they are deported or if they are facing deportation proceedings. The bill also would create a pathway for deported immigrant veterans to become U.S. citizens, Duckworth said.

Immigrants who served honorably in the military are entitled under the law to expedited naturalization, but it does not happen as often as it should, according to the Immigrant Defenders Law Center.

The Healthcare Opportunities for Patriots in Exile Act, also known as the HOPE Act, would allow deported veterans to reenter the U.S. temporarily to receive health care from the Department of Veterans Affairs.

The legislation aims to reduce barriers for deported veterans trying to access their VA health coverage outside the U.S.

Once a veteran is deported, they are usually unable to access the full VA benefits they have earned and would receive if they were still living in the United States. Many have trouble accessing even basic medical care, Duckworth said.

The Immigrant Veterans Eligibility Tracking System Act, or I-VETS Act, seeks to formally identify active-duty service members and veterans undergoing deportation proceedings.

Noncitizens who serve in the U.S. military may be eligible for citizenship, according to a 2019 report from the Government Accountability Office.

But U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement does not routinely identify or track an individuals status as a veteran, the GAO found.

The bill would ensure that the military service is part of an individuals immigration records. The Department of Homeland Security would be required to recognize military service when an individual applies for immigrant benefits or during immigration enforcement proceedings.

These bills will make it easier for immigrant veterans to become citizens, prevent them from deportation and ensure they can access the VA health care they rightfully earned, Gallego said.
When it comes to a bowl of succulent goodness that all furry friends adore, nothing compares to pet food from Shandong Province in eastern China. Discover how the province is working hard to meet the evolving standards of Chinese pet owners.
THE HAGUE, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Dutch Minister of Economic Affairs Vincent Karremans said Wednesday that the government's intervention over semiconductor manufacturer Nexperia is being suspended.

"In light of recent developments, I consider it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act regarding Nexperia, in close consultation with our European and international partners," The minister said in a statement.

Karremans intervened in the operations of Nexperia, an overseas subsidiary of Chinese company Wingtech, in late September, citing the company's alleged governance shortcomings.

China's Ministry of Commerce said on Nov. 1 that the Dutch government's improper interference in internal corporate affairs has led to the ongoing chaos in global industrial and supply chains. China urges the Netherlands to take concrete actions to restore the stability of the global semiconductor supply chain.

Karremans said in the past few days Dutch government has had constructive meetings with the Chinese authorities. He lauded the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world. 
This stitched photo taken on Oct. 9, 2024 shows the central detector of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction. Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

GUANGZHOU, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

In a press conference held in Guangdong's Jiangmen by the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), IHEP deputy director Wen Liangjian presented the first physics result by the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO).

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments, said Wen, also the physics analysis coordinator of the JUNO Collaboration.

The two parameters, originally determined by solar neutrinos, can also be precisely measured by reactor antineutrinos. Earlier results from the two approaches showed a mild 1.5-sigma discrepancy, known as the solar neutrino tension, hinting at a possible new physics theory.

"Achieving such precision within only two months of operation shows that JUNO is performing exactly as designed," said Wang Yifang, JUNO project manager and spokesperson.

"With this level of accuracy, JUNO will soon determine the neutrino mass ordering, test the three-flavour oscillation framework, and search for new physics beyond it," Wang added.

Since neutrinos rarely interact with ordinary matter, they can easily zip through our bodies, buildings, or even the entire Earth without being felt, earning them the nickname "ghost particles." Due to their elusive nature, neutrinos are the least understood fundamental particles, requiring massive detectors to capture their faintest traces.

At the heart of JUNO is a liquid-scintillator detector with an unprecedented mass of 20,000 tonnes, housed at the center of a 44-meter-deep water pool. A 41.1-meter-diameter stainless steel truss supports the 35.4-meter-diameter acrylic sphere, the liquid scintillator, over 45,000 photo-multiplier tubes (PMTs) and many other key components such as cables, magnetic shielding coils and light baffles.

When passing through the detector, neutrinos have a small chance of bumping into the hydrogen nuclei in the liquid, triggering extremely faint flashes, which can be detected by the surrounded PMTs and then converted into electrical signals.

JUNO is a major international collaboration led by the IHEP. The project involves more than 700 scientists from 75 institutions across 17 countries and regions. Proposed in 2008 and approved by the CAS and Guangdong Province in 2013, JUNO began underground construction in 2015 and started taking data in August 2025.

The CAS vice president Ding Chibiao said at the press conference that JUNO is a major international collaborative project in fundamental scientific research that brings together global expertise. The project demonstrates China's commitment to the principles of openness, cooperation, and mutual benefit for international partnerships.

"As Chair of the JUNO Institutional Board, I am proud to see this global effort reach such a milestone. JUNO's success reflects the commitment and creativity of our entire international community," said Marcos Dracos at the University of Strasbourg and National Center for Scientific Research in France.

JUNO is designed to determine the neutrino mass ordering and measure oscillation parameters with sub-percent precision. It will also study solar, atmospheric, supernova and geoneutrinos, and search for physics beyond the standard model of particle physics.

"JUNO will continue to produce important results and train new generations of physicists for decades to come," said Cao Jun, director of IHEP and JUNO deputy spokesperson. 

Cao Jun, director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), and deputy spokesperson of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), anchors a press conference in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Wen Liangjian, deputy director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), also the physics analysis coordinator of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) Collaboration, presents the first physics result by JUNO during a press conference in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

This photo taken on Nov. 18, 2025 shows workers laying floor mats at the hall of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), with three layers of muon detector arrays over their heads, in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Wang Yifang, project manager and spokesperson of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), briefs the project for visitors in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 18, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

A researcher works at the control room of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Wen Liangjian, deputy director of the Institute of High Energy Physics (IHEP) of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), also the physics analysis coordinator of the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) Collaboration, presents the first physics result by JUNO during a press conference in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Wang Yifang, project manager and spokesperson of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO), introduces the project during a press conference in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

A worker monitors the ultrapure water treatment process at Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 18, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

People attend a press conference reporting the first physics result by the Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 19, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

This photo taken on Nov. 18, 2025 shows muon detector arrays at Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)

Researchers work at the control room of Jiangmen Underground Neutrino Observatory (JUNO) in Jiangmen, south China's Guangdong Province, Nov. 18, 2025. The world's largest transparent spherical neutrino detector in south China's Guangdong Province reported its first achievement on Wednesday, marking a major step of its decade-long construction.

Using 59 days of effective data after the start of operation on Aug. 26 this year, JUNO has already measured two of the solar neutrino oscillation parameters with a factor of 1.5 to 1.8 better precision than previous experiments. (Xinhua/Jin Liwang)
Europa Press Seville Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 13:23 Share

The Junta de Andalucia's regional ministry of health has added Aznalcazar in Seville to the municipalities currently under alert for the West Nile Virus in the region. The virus was detected in culex mosquitoes in a trap located less than 1.5 kilometres from the town centre. Mosquitoes with WNV have also been detected in a trap located in the municipality of Villamanrique de la Condesa (Seville), more than 1.5 kilometres from the town centre, so the municipality remains at high risk.

There are now 11 Andalusian municipalities on alert. Besides Aznalcazar, there are La Linea de la Concepcion (Cadiz), which will remain on alert until 9 December; Guadalcazar (Cordoba), where the situation has been extended until 3 December; in Seville, there are Las Cabezas de San Juan, until 20 November; Moron de la Frontera until 26 November; La Rinconada and Almensilla, until 27 November; San Juan de Aznalfarache, Mairena del Aljarafe and Gelves, until 9 December; and Burguillos and the Torrepalma de Carmona population centre, until 10 December.

What does the alert mean?

An area is declared on alert for at least four weeks, after which the alert is deactivated only after no new cases have been detected in mosquitoes, birds or horses. Once a municipality is declared under alert, surveillance (entomological, animal and human) is increased and promotional activities are launched in schools and residential areas. Residents are further kept informed through pharmacies and health centres, which are responsible for suggesting protective measures.

At the same time, the local administration intensifies control measures and treatment of mosquitoes transmitting the disease, according to the municipal plan. The area in a radius of 1.5 kilometres from the place where the larvae or mosquitoes have been detected has to be treated.

Mosquito control

On the other hand, the authorities responsible for the active search for mild cases in the areas on alert and for the monitoring of the situation have carried out laboratory studies to rule out infection in a total of 393 people, all of whom have tested negative. This season, there have been three confirmed cases of WNV in adults: in Mojacar (Almeria), Moron de la Frontera and La Rinconada (Seville), in addition to the probable case concerning a child in Andujar (Jaen).

Numerous mosquitoes have been under surveillance in the 208 traps installed all over Andalucia. Many of these insects have been located in Estepona (Malaga), Isla Mayor, Villamanrique de la Condesa and La Puebla del Rio (Seville). Moderate populations have been detected in Barbate (Cadiz); Motril (Granada); Alhaurin de la Torre, Mijas and Malaga city (Malaga); Almensilla, Bollullos de la Mitacion and Coria del Rio (Seville). The rest of the traps show a low presence.
Inmaculada Domecq Malaga Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 09:09 | Updated 14:27h. Share

Spanish Supreme Court has once again ruled in favour of taxpayers, relying on the principle of free movement of capital. Once again, EU law comes to the rescue. This is a long-standing demand: tax advisers specialising in Non-Resident taxation have spent years defending the position now finally confirmed by the Supreme Court in its Judgment 1372/2025 of 29 October.

This resolution opens the door for non-resident taxpayers to apply the combined limit the tax shield, putting an end to what the Court considers discriminatory tax treatment contrary to EU law.

This tax shield prevents the combined amount of Wealth Tax (IP) and Personal Income Tax (IRPF) from exceeding 60% of the IRPF taxable base of the taxpayer. If that threshold is exceeded, the Wealth Tax liability must be reduced, up to a maximum reduction of 80%.

Until now, only Spanish tax residents could apply this limitation. Anyone residing abroad and taxed exclusively on assets located in Spain was automatically excluded, meaning that their tax burden could become confiscatory.

The Supreme Court has now ruled that this difference in treatment is unjustified, violates the free movement of capital (Article 63 TFEU) and produces a discriminatory effect prohibited under EU law. The judgment not only stops a historically restrictive administrative practice but also strengthens a broader trend: the need to ensure equal tax treatment between residents and non-residents whenever their situations are objectively comparable and when the different treatment affects crossborder investments.

The Supreme Court recalls that EU case law has already warned Spain in similar contexts, highlighting the EU ruling that forced Spain to amend its inheritance and gift tax legislation: if a tax measure reduces the value of a non-residents assets more than those of a resident, and that difference is based solely on residence, the measure constitutes a restriction on the free movement of capital.

Such a difference would only be lawful if justified by overriding reasons of public interest. However, no such justification exists, because:

1. Wealth Tax is a Spanish tax whose potentially confiscatory effect can equally impact nonresidents.

2. The tax authorities can verify foreign personal taxation, through Double Tax Treaties.

3. The purpose of the limit is to prevent Wealth Tax from eroding the taxpayers capital, a risk that also exists for non-residents.

4. Tax residence alone does not justify a harsher tax burden.

A practical example showing how the ruling changes the tax bill:

Consider a non-resident who owns real estate in Spain and pays Wealth Tax:

 Net wealth in Spain: 4,000,000

 Wealth Tax liability 2025: 60,000

 Worldwide income declared abroad: 70,000

 Income tax paid abroad: 20,000

Applying the combined limit, the maximum total amount payable for income tax plus Wealth Tax would be 42,000. However, in Spain alone this taxpayer has already paid 60,000 in Wealth Tax. The excess must therefore be reduced, subject to the 80% limit. In this case, the maximum Wealth Tax payable would be 22,000, resulting in a 38,000 tax saving.

In our opinion, the Supreme Courts resolution opens the door for all non-residents who paid Wealth Tax without applying the tax shield in years that have not become time-barred to review their situation and, where appropriate, seek a refund of undue payments

The potential impact is considerable in areas with a substantial presence of non-resident owners of high-value properties, regardless of the specific region.

Inmaculada Domecq

Partner & Head of Tax & Legal at UHY Fay & Co

idp@uhy-fay.com
Work is under way to widen the beach in Chilches.

Eugenio Cabezas Velez-Malaga Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 09:55 Share

The Spanish government is carrying out work to restore and expand Chilches beach in the municipality of Velez-Malaga on the eastern Costa del Sol. The project to increase the coastline by 600 square metres involves an investment by the coastal authority of 48,516 euros.

The central government's delegate in Malaga, Javier Salas, visited the site, accompanied by the head of the Andalusian Mediterranean coastal authority, Angel Gonzalez and representatives of the company carrying out the work on Tuesday 18 November.

Salas said that the works "which will enable the recovery of the coastal environment at Torre Moya are expected to be completed in the coming days".

The work is being carried out over a distance of approximately 200 metres, from the roundabout where the N-340, MA-3204 and Calle Jacaranda meet, in the direction of Velez-Malaga and runs parallel to the Senda Literal (coastal path) and the N-340 coastal road.

The main purpose of this work is to remove the damaged and disused 10-metre-long fibre cement pipe, which also contains asbestos, in order to prevent contamination of the environment and any harmful effects on health. In total, 42 tonnes of waste will be removed, 2,300 cubic metres of sand will be moved and the breakwater will be relocated, allowing for the recovery of 600 square metres of beach.

Salas said that "the Government has invested 6.6 million euros in emergency work after the various storms suffered in recent years and progress is being made on coastal regeneration and stabilisation projects worth 29 million euros in Malaga city, Marbella, San Pedro de Alcantara, Torrox and Mijas."
A British man in his 30s was rushed to hospital in a serious condition when he fell down a slope after allegedly being pushed by his partner during an argument in Benalmadena last week. According to sources, the young woman was arrested by Local Police at the hotel where he was staying.

The incident happened last Thursday night, when the police were alerted to a man who had fallen from a height of two metres and was unconscious. Health services also arrived at the scene and rushed the seriously injured man to the Hospital Universitario Virgen de la Victoria (Clinico) in Malaga.

However, due to the seriousness of the cranioencephalic trauma, the doctors transferred him to the Regional Hospital, where he was scheduled to undergo surgery. At the moment, his condition is unknown.

For her part, the suspect - also in her 30s and from the UK - was arrested by Local Police officers after allegedly giving her partner the push that caused him to fall and leaving the scene without helping him, according to the sources. The investigation is now being handled by the National Police.
Cristina Vallejo Malaga Wednesday, 19 November 2025 | Updated 20/11/2025 07:59h. Share

The annual budget debate in Malaga's provincial authority held on Monday morning involved a heated exchange between the ruling People's Party (PP) and all opposition groups, not only for the economic plan for next year, but also encompassing arguments over national politics. The session concluded with the approval of the budget, but only with the ruling party's support voting in favour as every opposition group voted against it, from Vox to Con Malaga, with PSOE too. Following this procedure, a 15-day period for submitting objections will begin and the budget is expected to be submitted for final approval at the next session of all representatives on 17 December.

For the time being, faced with the PP's criticism regarding the uncertainty surrounding the Diputacion's revenue given the absence of a state budget, the socialist group countered by asserting that the Diputacion's accounts for next year are "expansionary" thanks to "the strong performance of the Spanish economy, state transfers, increased revenue without raising taxes and higher employment and lower unemployment". In any case, the socialist group conceded that it is a historic budget, as PP deputy Maria del Carmen Martinez argued to open the debate: the 516.21 million euros "are a milestone in the history of this institution", she said, "for the first time, we've surpassed 500 million euros", she reiterated and, with this, she added, the Diputacion demonstrates "responsibility and a commitment to protecting municipalities, families and businesses to improve the province".

"Express processing"

516.21 million euros is a record-breaking budget for the Diputacion de Malaga, with around 100 million dedicated to investments

The opposition's complaints also focused on procedure: Josele Gonzalez, PSOE's spokesperson, complained of the PP's "disdain" for the other groups, implying that the budget was being debated "without negotiation" and "without including contributions" from other parties. Meanwhile, Con Malaga's Juan Marquez criticised the "express processing": "In less than 24 hours after the documentation was submitted, the budget had already been reviewed by the accounts committee and, in less than a week, it was approved using the steamroller tactics of the absolute majority."

This recrimination was echoed by Vox, expressing "disappointment" at the way Francisco Salado's provincial authority had provided the accounts to the groups. "It was very difficult, if not impossible, to ask questions of the general comptroller or the Diputacion, because we were unaware of the budget's contents. This makes oversight difficult," explained the Vox representative. In response, the head of the institution's finance department stated that, since 11 July when the budget process began, "no one has asked any questions, submitted any proposals or checked the progress of the budget's implementation. They complain... but there's a certain lack of effort. Proposals from the opposition? Zero, just like for 2025 or 2024."

The clash stemmed from national policy, the budget approval process and also the budget's content itself. The ruling PP party for the provincial authority boasted of the record-breaking budget, its ambition and the allocation of 96 million euros for investments, prioritising a mobile population and the integrated water cycle. However, PSOE justified its vote against the budget by citing what they consider to be cuts to programmes for the elderly, in the provincial drug addiction centre, in family services and in the employment promotion programme. "The budget should have two priorities: combating depopulation and, most importantly, housing, yet not a single cent is allocated to housing. This institution has neither a plan nor a model for housing and we are not surprised, because they see it as a business, not a right," asserted the socialist representative.

"The budget should have two priorities: combating depopulation and, most importantly, housing, yet not a single cent is allocated to housing," asserted PSOE

In the same vein, Con Malaga said: "There is neither a provincial housing policy, nor a change in the production model, nor rural development", adding: "It is not true that the greatest growth is in investments, it is in public debt. What is increasing most is the debt." Marquez also criticised the fact that the budget "forgets the smallest municipalities" and that what is transferred to local councils has increased by less than half of the increase applied to the whole budget. "Chapter 1, personnel, has only grown by 3.9%, while the 'miscellaneous expenses' item, which includes sponsorships and protocol expenses, has risen by 61%," said the Con Malaga representative.

"Ideology" and increased debt

Meanwhile, Antonio Luna for Vox added to his typical criticism of the 2030 Agenda budget for social and environmental sustainability: "The budget is far from meeting the needs of the people of Malaga, it is laden with ideology and detached from the priorities of families, farmers and livestock breeders in Malaga. We're seeing an agenda that responds more to ideological impositions than to real needs."

Furthermore, Vox linked this to another common criticism: what they calculate to be the poor budget execution rate of previous years, which casts doubt on whether the now-presented budget will be fully implemented. "Based on the demonstrated execution rate (33.49%) of those 114 million euros, only 38 million euros will be spent at best. The rest, once again, will be propaganda, budgets that deceive mayors and generate false expectations in municipalities," said Luna. The PP responded that the year is expected to end with 80% of the budget spent, as recorded in the Ministry of Finance's databases.

Salado lashed out at Vox and central government

The votes against the budget from Con Malaga - including a comprehensive amendment - and PSOE were decisive. Vox announced that it will submit objections, consideration and acceptance when the budget returns to the full session for final approval next month. The president of the Diputacion, Francisco Salado, closed the debate and had specific words for Vox: "You are joining the PSOE in the 'no means no' stance," he said. Salado also reproached the Vox spokesperson for a change of opinion regarding the budget, allegedly due to a phone call he received from higher-ups in the party in Madrid, and reiterated: "You'll know if you want to align with the PSOE. Since that call, you have had to come up with arguments. The other day you congratulated us on the budget."

Salado, to Antonio Luna (Vox): "You'll know if you want to align with the PSOE. Since that call, you have had to come up with arguments"

Salado also lashed out at PSOE and Sumar, known as the Con Malaga group in Malaga province: "They have no legitimacy to talk about budgets. They haven't presented them out of political cowardice because they know they will be rejected. They have been failing in their duty for three years and this has negative repercussions for Malaga. In this plenary session, they should show a little more humility. When budgets can't be approved, elections must be called." Then, specifically addressing the socialist representative, he said: "Sharing in state revenues is not a gift, it is what the people of Malaga are entitled to. If more is collected, the people of Malaga make a greater tax effort, and that must be transferred."
ANKARA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Turkiye appointed on Wednesday an ambassador to Syria after a 13-year suspension, taking a major step to normalize diplomatic relations between Ankara and Damascus.

Deputy Foreign Minister Nuh Yilmaz has been named Turkiye's new ambassador to Damascus, according to a presidential decree by President Recep Tayyip Erdogan published in the Official Gazette.

This marks the first ambassadorial appointment since Turkiye closed its embassy in the Syrian capital on March 26, 2012. Turkiye has also resumed diplomatic operations at its consulate in Aleppo, Syria's second-largest city, after a 13-year hiatus.

Nuh Yilmaz served at Turkiye's National Intelligence Organization from August 2013 to June 2023. He was appointed deputy foreign minister on May 20, 2024.

The diplomatic thaw has also led to renewed civilian ties. Turkish Airlines resumed direct flights from Istanbul to Damascus earlier this year for the first time in over a decade. Since Jan. 23, flights have operated every Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. 
Ignacio Lillo Malaga Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 11:10 Share

It looked like nothing more than a conventional helicopter flight but, in reality, the flight that took off from Malaga Airport on Tuesday was the first test of the future 'aerotaxi' route. The plan is to use drones for these operations, known in the aviation world as eVTOL (electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft). At the moment, however, no model has been approved in Spain, which is why the test was carried out with a helicopter.

The first tests of the so-called 'OperA' ('Operate Anywhere') European project, which SUR is closely following, were carried in Madrid.

The air taxi crossed the sky between Malaga and Granada, opening the possibility for a direct connection to Marbella in just 20 minutes

This first 'airtaxi' tested the Malaga-Granada route with two journeys, which opens the possibility to a route to Marbella, which will connect the airport with the coastal town in just 20 minutes.

Malaga-Granada connected by air

As reported by Aena and Enaire, the helicopter connected Malaga Airport and Federico Garcia Lorca Granada-Jaen on Tuesday through an airspace corridor designed by the Malaga control tower and Madrid experts. According to these sources, the flights will initially be operated by pilots and later by unmanned passenger drones.

The test is the final step before the protocol is approved, aiming to verify that the routes and the operating procedures allow these aircraft, whether piloted, remote or autonomous, to fly in controlled and uncontrolled airspace.

The initiative seeks to demonstrate that these aircraft can coexist with conventional aviation with the highest level of operational safety in real environments. The advanced aerial transport project is supported by Sesar 3. The EU is providing nearly 5.97 million euros of the 9.52-million funding.

"It represents a decisive step towards the safe and efficient integration of eVTOL aircraft in all types of airspace, contributing to the creation of a more sustainable and connected European digital sky," sources said. The 'OperA' project is led by tech multinational Honeywell, with the participation of Aena, Enaire, Crida, Eurocontrol and manufacturers such as Pipistrel and Vertical Aerospace, among others.
Susana Zamora Malaga Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 14:18 Share

Until the Covid pandemic, when a parcel arrived at a residential area the staff at the access control post was in charge of the delivery, taking down in handwritten form the details of the person who collected it - name, surname, ID number and house number - who signed as proof of receipt. Then, as a result of the pandemic, in March 2020 the collection of parcels was moved to new premises with staff dedicated exclusively to this purpose, and the data was processed in the same way as it had been at the access control post.

However in 2021 the system changed and problems arose when two residents complained to the Spanish data protection agency (AEPD), which has now fined the owners' association 2,000 euros for a breach of its rules.

They reported that the new system was that whoever picked up the package had to take a photograph of it, thus proving that it had arrived. To do this, they used a camera on a tripod, connected to a computer, which took a photograph of the person taking the parcel each time. This system, which stored the images, was implemented without previously informing residents about the processing of the data. The complainants claimed that they had not obtained "adequate" information about the processing of their personal data and that this system "did not have a valid legal basis".

Penalty proceedings

The AEPD started to investigate the claim a year ago, warning the community, which responded to the letter by justifying its peculiar parcel collection system on the grounds of legitimate interest, based on security, traceability and minimisation of neighbourhood conflicts. It argued that the owners were aware of the process and had given their consent to implement this system having assessed other alternatives.

"The analysis concluded that image processing is the most appropriate and proportional solution, considering operational needs and risk minimisation," it said. In addition, according to the residents' association, "it had a limited and occasional capture", with no continuous recording or massive image storage.

However, the data protection authority described the system as disproportionate and argued that there are other less intrusive options, including the original reception system and considered the justification based on legitimate interest to be insufficient, as it did not demonstrate the need to capture images for the purpose of receiving parcels.

"In this case there is a lack of proportionality (the capture and conservation of a person's image) that implies a serious intrusion into the private sphere of the individual as a means of managing the collection of parcels in the residential area," the resolution states.

It added that, having examined the arguments put forward by the community of owners, "there is no evidence to demonstrate the necessity or proportionality between the processing - taking into account the purposes for which it is intended and the context in which it is carried out - and the intrusion it represents on the individual's right to data protection to capture his or her image and keep it as a means of accrediting to whom the mail was delivered. This treatment is even more excessive if we take into account that the data controller collects and retains other personal data: name and surname, ID number, address, telephone number, and even a copy of the data subject's ID card", the ruling concluded.
Lucia Palacios Madrid Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 12:58 Share

Pensions are not at risk in the future, but the system's financing model will change significantly to give much more prominence to the central government's role in Spain, which will have to decide which expenses are to be prioritised and which are to be cut. This is the forecast of president of the independent authority for fiscal responsibility (Airef) Cristina Herrero, which she presented on Tuesday. Herrero harshly criticised the government and its interference in this institution responsible for auditing public accounts. She even called on Congreso for help to protect Airef's independence and said she has the support of the state legal service.

"They ask me: Are future pensions at risk? No, they will never have heard that from me. My answer is that they are as sustainable as spending on defence, healthcare, education," Herrero said. However, she added: "But we do need to know that the expected growth of contributions and pensions means that the role of the state as the main guarantor of the system is going to be increasingly greater, at least for some years to come."

Herrero criticised the government for 'undermining' Airef's independence and refilling the pension fund when there is a deficit

In other words, the state will have to inject more money over the coming years to guarantee the payment of pensions, given that over the next three decades six million more pensioners will join the system and the average benefit will be revalued by more than 20%, which will imply a growth in spending of more than 4% of GDP until 2050. Herrero warned that the government will have to reorder spending priorities or adopt the necessary measures on the revenue side.

20% is the average increase in pensions predicted until 2050, by when six million people will have joined the system

This high dependence on governmental injections into the social security (either to pay contributory pensions because the contributions collected are not sufficient or to finance the system's inappropriate expenses) was confirmed on Tuesday by Spain's first deputy PM Maria Jesus Montero, when she presented the government's spending ceiling for 2026. She revealed that the government plans to transfer 22.88 billion euros from the central administration to social security to meet the maximum recommendation of the Toledo pact. "This transfer is fully covered by the central government, which affects the budget deficit of our general government sector," she said.

The deficit persists

However, this injection of money, similar to this year's, will not be enough to balance the social security accounts, which have been in the red for more than a decade. It will remain so at least until the end of the term, since the government will allow it to have a deficit margin of another 0.2% of GDP, just over three billion euros, both in 2026 and 2027. Even in 2028, the hole will continue with 0.1% of GDP. This means that neither the Toledo pact's mandate to balance the accounts nor the commitment made by then-minister Jose Luis Escriva to the EU to ensure long-term sustainability will be met.

In this context, the president of the Airef unreservedly criticised the government's current policy of refilling the pension 'piggy bank'. "I don't understand why the reserve fund should grow while there is a deficit," she said.
Miguel Angel Alfonso Madrid Wednesday, 19 November 2025, 10:37 Share

Spain will maintain its economic and military support for Ukraine "until the end". PM Pedro Sanchez made this promise during President Zelensky's third visit to Spain since the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, which was held on Tuesday, 18 November. The commitment reached between the two leaders in Moncloa includes a package of 615 million in military aid to Ukraine (part of the first batch of the one billion that the government had already promised to Kyiv in 2024), as well as a further 202 million in funding for reconstruction.

At a joint press conference, Zelensky thanked the Spanish nation, which he described as comprising "people of light in a dark time", for the "solidarity", which is crucial at a time when Russia has increased air attacks on the civilian population and when a new winter is approaching. An urgent action is to not only obtain anti-aircraft resources and drones, but to also improve basic infrastructure such as heating in the affected areas and energy and water supply in the face of the arrival of the cold weather.

In December, Spain will allocate 300 million euros to the shipment of defence equipment in the framework of the bilateral security agreement. In addition, another 100 million will be transferred to Nato's Purl programme to "finance the urgent acquisition of defence systems needed by the Ukrainian armed forces".

The funds are earmarked to purchase military equipment from the US defence industry, which Zelensky has not been able access so easily since Donald Trump's return to the White House in January. "Ukraine needs these defence systems urgently and only the US can provide them," Sanchez said. Lastly, a further 215 million euros will be mobilized through the Safe instrument created by the European Commission.

In addition, Spain will implement a joint project with the UN to rebuild the centralised heating system in the Ukrainian town of Sumy, the infrastructure of which has been seriously damaged by the war. This will benefit more than 28,000 people at a cost of approximately two million euros.

Before the meeting, Sanchez and Zelensky visited the Reina Sofia museum with a special stop in front of Picasso's Guernica, which the Ukrainian leader had previously described as a "universal symbol of the barbarity of wars". "Picasso only authorised the return of Guernica to Spain when democracy returned. I am convinced that sooner rather than later Ukraine will share the privilege of peace. Until then, Spaniards will be with Ukraine," Sanchez said.

Meeting with the king

Zelensky's agenda in Spain was packed with business and institutional meetings. Among them was a meeting with King Felipe VI at the Zarzuela palace. There, the monarch conveyed Spain's support in the face of Russia's aggression and Ukraine's aspirations to join the EU. Afterwards, the king hosted a lunch in Zelensky's honour.

One of the objectives of Zelenksy's European tour was to reduce Ukraine's dependence on the US. On Monday, he signed an agreement in Paris to acquire 100 Rafale fighters. On the following day, he visited tech and consultancy company Indra's facilities in Madrid, where he met with representatives of 13 Spanish defence companies who presented him with several defence systems. As a result of this meeting, Spanish companies Escribano Mechanical & Engineering and Tecnove signed an agreement with the Ukrainian company Practika to jointly manufacture different types of armoured vehicles.

Early in the morning, the Ukrainian president visited Congreso, where he met with the presidents of the lower and the upper houses, who showed him around the palace. During the visit, the Ukrainian president was particularly struck by the bullet marks of the failed coup d'etat of 23 February 1981, which can still be seen on the ceiling, preserved to dissuade a similar attack from happening in Spain again.
Syracuse, N.Y.  The father of a 25-year-old man who died in the Oneida County jail has filed a federal lawsuit alleging correction officers and nurses stood by for minutes while he suffered a seizure and lay unresponsive on the floor.

The lawsuit, filed Monday in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of New York, alleges that staff at the Oneida County Correctional Facility ignored clear signs that Antwan Cater was in medical crisis on Feb. 13, 2024.

Staff did not begin CPR until 15 minutes after he was found unresponsive on his cell floor, the lawsuit says. Body-worn camera footage also shows staff joking while Cater remained unresponsive, the lawsuit said.

Cater, of Utica, was being held on a low-level probation violation tied to substance use. He died in the jails medical unit.

No parent should ever have to learn that their child was mocked in their final moments by those charged with protecting them, said Terry Watson, Caters father, in a statement. I am committed to seeking justice for my son and ensuring that no other family endures this preventable heartbreak.

The Oneida County Correctional Facility uses Wellpath as their jailhouse healthcare provider. In 2024, Onondaga County stopped using Wellpath as its provider because an inmate died after a medical episode.

According to the 43-page complaint filed Monday, Cater had been deteriorating for days. He refused meals, cried, shook his cell door, talked to himself, drank from the toilet and appeared disoriented. Staff documented these behaviors, but the lawsuit says no one intervened with meaningful medical or mental health care.

On the day he died, a correction officer reported seeing Cater on the floor appearing to have a seizure at 12:50 p.m., the lawsuit says. But officers did not return to the cell with medical staff for more than eight minutes.

By the time a nurse arrived, Cater was unresponsive, not breathing and did not move when spoken to, the lawsuit says.

Instead of starting CPR immediately, staff stood idly by, tried to take Caters blood pressure, discussed equipment issues and made jokes and comments, the lawsuit says. CPR did not begin until about 1:04 p.m., nearly 15 minutes after Cater was first found on the floor, the lawsuit said.

Bodycam footage shows one nurse joking she had burned a thousand calories and was too fat to keep doing CPR. Another said she had to continue even though Cater was dead so she wouldnt lose her medical license. A staff member speculated he was from the strip, a struggling neighborhood in Utica. Others complained about shitty, broken medical equipment.

The state Commission of Correction later found significant issues with the medical response and resuscitation measures, the lawsuit notes.

The suit names Oneida County, several correction officers, five nurses, the countys private medical contractors and Wellpaths post-bankruptcy trust. It accuses them of negligence, medical malpractice and deliberate indifference to Caters serious medical needs.

No one should ever be treated with such disregard, said Julia P. Kuan, a partner in the New York City-based civil rights firm that filed the lawsuit, Emery Celli Brinckerhoff Abady Ward & Maazel.

What happened to Antwan was not an accident  it was the predictable result of a broken system that devalues the lives of people in custody," she said.

Cater had been booked into the jail on Jan. 29 after missing a court-ordered substance abuse treatment appointment, according to the lawsuit. He had disclosed his history of seizures, drug withdrawal and prior K2 use during intake and was placed in the jails Constant Supervision Unit.
CANBERRA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Australian authorities on Wednesday warned international students who are departing the country not to sell their bank accounts or official identification to organized criminal groups.

The Australian Federal Police (AFP) Joint Policing Cybercrime Coordination Center said in a statement that criminal syndicates engaging in illicit activities are targeting international tertiary students with cash offers for access to their bank accounts and identity documents.

Authorities said that foreign students preparing to leave Australia are being offered up to 500 Australian dollars (about 325.5 U.S. dollars) for the use of their bank accounts, with potential for a commission of around 10 percent on funds received into the accounts.

The AFP said that the criminals then use the bank accounts for illicit activities such as money laundering and large-scale scam operations, potentially linking the students to crime networks.

Identity documents such as passports, driver's licenses and government-issued identification that criminals can use to open bank accounts in the students' names are also in high demand, the AFP said.

AFP Detective Superintendent Marie Andersson said that students who sell bank accounts or documents to criminal syndicates could face criminal charges, visa cancellations and permanent bans from returning to Australia.

"We are seeing criminal networks overseas launder millions through bank accounts belonging to young people, and as a result, they too could be charged with offenses like money laundering," she said.

The AFP urged students to close their local bank accounts and secure their digital and personal identity before leaving Australia. 
New York  A federal appeals court ruled Wednesday that a Syracuse police officer did not use excessive force when she fired toward a group of people firing guns during a chaotic Fathers Day barbecue nearly a decade ago.

A three-judge panel from the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit upheld a lower court decision to dismiss a lawsuit that was filed by Evelyn Tennyson, who was shot in the leg. It is one of two lawsuits related to the incident.

The police officer, Kelsey Francemone, rushed alone toward gunfire that broke out at the large barbecue on Syracuses Near West Side on June 19, 2016. She shot and killed Tennysons fiancee, Gary Porter, after the officer said he turned toward her with a gun.

Tennyson later filed a lawsuit. Chief U.S. District Judge Brenda Sannes dismissed the case in September 2024, ruling that Francemones actions were protected by a legal defense called qualified immunity.

The qualified immunity defense, established by the U.S. Supreme Court, protects government officials like police officers from being held legally responsible in certain situations.

Police officers cannot be held liable in civil cases unless similar actions have already been found unconstitutional in a previous court case.

The panel of three appellate judges, which is based in Manhattan, said in an eight-page decision that the extent of Tennysons injuries supports the argument that Francemones conduct was not objectively unreasonable.

Although we do not mean to denigrate the seriousness of Tennysons wound, her injury was sustained during a chaotic gunfight initiated by third parties, the judges wrote. Even assuming that Francemone fired the shot that struck Tennyson  which, again, is a disputed fact  there can be no doubt that Tennyson and other innocent bystanders might have been killed if Francemone had not confronted the shooters as she did."

Syracuse Police Officer Kelsey Francemone exits a courtroom at the courthouse on the North State Street Friday, Jan. 20, 2017. Michael Greenlar | mgreenlar@syracuse.com SYR

A second lawsuit was filed in connection with the barbecue incident by Porters daughter, Tanajee Maddox.

The Porter case went to trial this spring and put the actions of Francemone, who at the time had been with the department for less than two years, under a microscope.

Eight jurors found in May that Francemone used excessive force when she fatally shot Porter, 41. They awarded $10,000 in damages to Porters estate for conscious pain and suffering.

The jurors, however, also appeared to agree with key parts of Francemones testimony. They told the judge they believed she did face a man who had a gun and was shooting at the crowded party.

Sannes later ruled that Francemone was protected by the qualified immunity defense, essentially zeroing out the verdict and the awarded damages.

An appeal in the case is pending before the Second Circuit.

Francemone ran by herself that June 2016 night toward gunfire that had erupted at the barbecue at the James Geddes public housing complex.

People at the barbecue began stampeding away from the shots, creating a chaotic scene. Officials would later say at least 37 shots were fired.

Francemone found three people shooting from near a car in a small parking lot off Tully Street on the southern side of the housing complex.

She testified during the trial that she had repeatedly identified herself as a police officer, and ordered the shooters to drop their guns. She fired several times toward the shooters.

Francemone fired twice at a man she said she saw turning toward her with a gun at her as he ran.

People attending the barbecue pounced twice on Francemone after she shot Porter, stealing items from her uniform and striking her with a glass bottle.

Witnesses for the plaintiff disputed many aspects of her account.
Syracuse, N.Y.  A man found guilty of taking photos up womens skirts and assaulting a police officer trying to arrest him was sentenced to prison Wednesday.

Thomas R. Crudo, 31, was sentenced to seven years in prison for assaulting the officer and two to four years in prison for each count of unlawful surveillance. All the sentences will run consecutively.

That means he faces 11 to 15 years in prison.

Crudo was acquitted of aggravated assault on a police officer. If convicted of that, he could have faced a maximum of 25 years.

On Feb. 6, 2024, Crudo was taking photos up the skirts of multiple women around the 1100 block of East Genesee Street.

Police quickly found Crudo on the 200 block of Marshall Street. He ignored police commands and tried to flee in his Jeep.

Syracuse Police Officer Darren Ettinger reached Crudos drivers side door before he pulled away, according to court documents.

After Crudo refused to exit the car, Ettinger tried to pull him out, according to court documents.

Crudo tried to drive away with Ettinger hanging out of the Jeep but crashed into a car parked in front of him. As Ettinger continued to struggle with Crudo, a dog in the back seat of the car bit Ettinger on the head. He required medical treatment and still has a scar from the bite.

In court Wednesday, prosecutor Caitlyn Buckman said Crudo targeted the women because they were distracted.

Buckman read a letter from one of the victims who said that this incident changed how she navigates through the world. She wrote that she is now hyperaware of her surroundings.

It was like I was raped with my clothes on, the victim wrote.

Judge Matthew Doran described the unlawful surveillance as a very invasive crime.

Doran also said that the struggle with Ettinger shows Crudo has no respect for others, including law enforcement.

Doran pointed to a video from inside the jail that captured a chance encounter between Ettinger and Crudo. Doran said it is clear in the video Crudo is mocking Ettinger for the injuries he sustained.

Before he was sentenced, Crudo asked Doran not to sentence him to the maximum of seven years for the second-degree assault. Crudo said that it would be fair to give him six years.

Doran ultimately sentenced him to the maximum.
Syracuse, N.Y.  An off-duty Onondaga Community College police officer who was wounded outside a Syracuse bar was shot with his own gun, police said.

Syracuse police are still searching for the person who pulled the trigger, according to Kieran Coffey, a spokesperson for the Syracuse Police Department. Police believe they know the identity of the person but have not yet located the suspect, he said.

The OCC officer, Shane Prue, 46, was shot in the leg shortly after 1 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9, outside McAvans Pub at 1217 W. Fayette St., according to a criminal complaint filed in Syracuse City Court. His gun was a Glock 43X, a 9mm pistol, Coffey said.

Prue was taken to Upstate University Hospital. He was released the same day, according to a hospital spokesperson.

Coffey and a college spokesperson would not confirm whether the gun was the officers service weapon. It is registered in Prues name, Coffey said.

Asked if the gun was an OCC-issued service weapon, Roger Mirabito, OCCs spokesperson, would only say our officers are not allowed to bring their service revolvers home.

Mirabito also would not comment on Prues employment status at OCC.

Coffey said another man, Yaseen Shehadeh, was involved in the confrontation that led to the shooting but was not accused of firing the shot. Shehadeh was arrested at the scene after officers found him in possession of a stolen Taurus 9mm handgun and approximately 7.9 grams of cocaine, according to police and court documents.

Police said surveillance video showed a dispute in the pubs parking lot shortly after 1 a.m. Police described the altercation as both verbal and physical before escalating to a shooting.

Police were initially alerted by a ShotSpotter activation and when officers arrived, they found Prue wounded on the ground.

Police have not released further details about what led to the argument, how the shooter gained control of the officers weapon or any details about the suspect.
Syracuse, N.Y.  A woman police said shot an off-duty Onondaga Community College officer outside a Syracuse bar was arrested Wednesday.

Sky Bessette, 25, is accused of stealing the OCC officers gun and shooting him in the leg after a verbal and physical altercation outside McAvans Pub at 1217 W. Fayette St., Syracuse police spokesperson Kieran Coffey said. The shooting happened shortly after 1 a.m. on Sunday, Nov. 9.

The officer  Shane Prue, 46  was shot with a Glock 43X, a 9mm pistol, Coffey said.

Prue was taken to Upstate University Hospital. He was released the same day, according to a hospital spokesperson.

Coffey and a college spokesperson would not confirm whether the gun was the officers service weapon. It is registered in Prues name, Coffey said.

Asked if the gun was an OCC-issued service weapon, Roger Mirabito, OCCs spokesperson, would only say our officers are not allowed to bring their service revolvers home.

Mirabito also would not comment on Prues employment status at OCC.

Another man, Yaseen Shehadeh, was involved in the confrontation that led to the shooting but was not accused of firing the shot, police said.

Shehadeh was arrested after officers found him in possession of a stolen Taurus 9mm handgun, according to police and court documents. Officers said they also found approximately 7.9 grams of cocaine on him.

Police said surveillance video showed a dispute in the pubs parking lot. Police described the altercation as both verbal and physical before escalating to a shooting.

Police have not released further details about what led to the argument, how Bessette gained control of the officers weapon or any details about her.

Bessette was charged with first-degree assault, first-degree robbery, second-degree criminal possession of a weapon, criminal possession of a firearm and first-degree reckless endangerment, according to arrest records.

She is scheduled to be arraigned in CAP Court Wednesday evening.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Syracuse city officials are moving to try to close an auto business that state and city officials say has a history of selling unsafe vehicles and violating city codes.

The Common Council will hold a public hearing at 5:30 p.m. Wednesday in City Hall on a proposal to revoke Nembhards Auto Sales special use permits that allow the business to operate.

City officials said in a report to the council that the business, which operates out of a former car wash at 634 S. Geddes St., has never had the proper city permits to sell cars.

The city also went to court on Oct. 31 to ask a judge to order the business to correct the code violations or face fines of $100 per day per violation.

The city, over the last year, has repeatedly cited the business for violations that have not been corrected, according to court papers.

The state Department of Motor Vehicles has repeatedly found the car dealership violates state DMV law and conducts fraudulent business practices, Jake Dishaw, the citys deputy commissioner of code enforcement and zoning administration, said in the report given to the council.

Ian Nembhard, the owner of the business, told syracuse.com | The Post-Standard that he is not illegally selling cars and that he has not sold unsafe vehicles. He said hes worked to correct code violations.

State DMV investigators found that between September 2024 and February 2025, the business sold at least 124 vehicles illegally, according to the citys report. Some were unfit for safe road operation or were missing proper paperwork, the report said the DMV found.

The businesss DMV certificate to sell vehicles was suspended in 2018 and revoked in 2021, the report said.

The DMV said Nembhard has denied involvement in illegal sales and failed to show up for scheduled meetings in the past, according to the report.

A DMV spokesperson declined to answer questions about the business because there is an ongoing investigation.

The business has violated Syracuse zoning, fire and building codes, including those related to assembling cars, selling cars and building a convenience store on the property, according to court and city documents.

In August 2024, the city first cited the business for a series of building code violations and ordered them to fix the problems by the end of the month, according to the citys court documents.

Nembhard continually failed to make the requested changes over the coming months, racking up violations, warnings, cease and desist warnings and stop work orders up through this October, city officials said.

Nembhard said he would be willing to make any changes. He also said he has not been receiving the citys code violations, warnings or orders.

Dishaw, who has visited the property before, said that it is impossible that Nembhard didnt receive the code citations, warnings and orders.

Each document was mailed to Nembhards home, and a second copy was physically dropped off to a person at the business with photo evidence, he said.

Nembhard was first licensed to open an auto sales business in early 2013, according to business records.

By 2015, his business began to encounter lawsuits from customers and by 2020, tax warrants started to arrive, according to court records.

Nembhard, 39, who lives in Salina, expressed shock at the allegations by the city and state when syracuse.com interviewed him at his business.

I dont understand why they are piling this up on me, he said. Nembhard emphasized that he would never intentionally put someone in danger.

Nembhard said that his business operates solely as a service shop which does detailing, oil changes, tire service and car washes.

He explained that cars that have been bought and sold that came through his property were handled by The Auto Plug LLC, a business based in Georgia which he says can legally buy and sell cars. The Auto Plug could not be reached for comment.

He said he thought the code violations had been resolved the last time an inspector visited the business. He said he will work with the city.

Dishaw said the business has made no efforts to come into compliance.

If he really wanted to work with us, he would show that by making progress on what we asked him to do, Dishaw said. That hasnt happened at all.

Dishaw explained that the city will continue to push forward with both the legal case and Common Council to shut Nembhard down.

After the public comments session, the Common Council will hold another discussion before voting on revoking Nembhards permits, Dishaw said. If the city revokes his permits, the business will need to close, he said.

In addition to trying to revoke his permits, the city will pursue the court case that could result in hefty fines and possible court orders against Nembhard.

This is what we do, Dishaw said. A dangerous business like this has a bigger impact on a community than people realize. We work hard to keep our community safe and hold people accountable.

Nembhard said he plans to consult with a lawyer and attend the meeting Wednesday.
Syracuse, N.Y.  Syracuses fire chief today told city councilors that the plans for a 10-megawatt battery storage system on East Brighton Avenue do not comply with the state fire code as the installation is currently proposed.

Chief Michael Monds said his department will continue to work with the developer to see if the battery system can be configured to meet safety requirements. For now, it does not, based on an informal review of the companys plan.

We told them were not in support of what was proposed already, Monds said during the Common Council meeting today. As it sits, the proposal doesnt meet the fire code.

After the meeting, Monds said his main concern is that the installation would not be set back far enough from other structures considering the amount of flammable lithium-ion batteries it would have.

Renewable energy company New Leaf Energy is seeking a special permit to install the battery system, which would cover about 20,000 square feet at a lot that currently serves as occasional storage for dumpsters.

The battery energy storage system would charge up at night, when demand for electricity is lowest, and feed the grid during daytime periods of highest demand. That would help reduce the need to operate so-called peaker plants  inefficient generating facilities typically fueled by natural gas that only run when demand for electricity is extremely high.

The batteries would store enough electricity to serve 6,000 to 7,000 households.

New York officials several months ago authorized a new round of financial incentives to encourage the development of battery systems to increase the reliability of the electric grid while decreasing the use of fossil fuels.

The biggest obstacle to siting the facilities is concern about fires.

State fire prevention officials recently approved new safety regulations for lithium-ion battery installations. Those changes were triggered by three big fires at battery energy storage systems in 2023 in New York. The fires occurred in Jefferson, Orange and Suffolk counties. In each case, they took a day or more to extinguish.

Monds said his department will take time to carefully analyze the New Leaf proposal, which is the first such battery system proposed in Syracuse. Terrence Nolan, senior project developer, said the companys safety experts will continue to meet with fire officials to discuss modifications of the design.

I have some optimism that well be able to come up with a design that meets his interpretation of the codes, Nolan said, referring to Monds.

Common Councilor Pat Hogan said the council also plans to study the issue further at a committee meeting yet to be scheduled.

New Leaf has discussed the project with community residents at four meetings in recent weeks, Noland said. Some residents have expressed opposition to the project, but at least a couple have said they support it, Nolan said.

New York currently has about 1.4 gigawatts of battery storage either built or under contract. To accommodate a growing electric system, NYSERDA plans to have 6 gigawatts by 2030 and 12 GW by 2035.

Staff writer Tim Knauss can be reached at:email|Twitter| 315-470-3023.
Syracuse, N.Y.  The states NY-Alert app was hacked last week, sending a message about a bogus transaction to the phones of tens of thousands of people signed up to get emergency notifications, state officials confirmed.

The phishing notice pinged 163,000 phones, or 87% of the accounts signed up for the states emergency notices, according to Scott Reif, spokesperson for the New York State Office of Information Technology Services.

The state is warning people to ignore any notice from NY-Alert that asks the recipient to inquire about a fake bank transaction.

We are aware of a text message sent in error to some members of the public, Reif said. Do not reply to the text message or call the phone number. This text message was not sent by New York State, and an investigation is ongoing by the vendor.

NY-Alert is the states mass notification system. Its used to keep residents informed on the topics they select when they sign up, including notifications for weather emergencies, road closures and deadlines to file state taxes.

The messages came through Mobile Commons, the company that handles alert system text messages for the state.

One of the hacked messages viewed by syracuse.com arrived the evening of Nov. 10:

B OF A: Transaction of $723.42 was declined. Confirm if this was you: (888) 836-4437. Reply YES to confirm.

Mobile Commons sent out another text to subscribers Nov. 11, warning of the phishing attempts:

The previous message was sent in error and not on behalf of New York State. Do not reply to this message or call the phone number.

Mobile Commons CEO Jed Alpert said in an emailed statement that an unauthorized third-party gained access to the platform for four hours before the scam was detected and stopped.

He said the company blocked a second attack Nov. 13.

During these incidents, multiple attempts were made to send spam messages through our system, Alpert said. A limited number of these messages reached subscribers before our security protocols identified and contained the malicious activity.

Alpert said the company is taking steps to make the system more secure and said they have locked down messaging on its platform until the company is confident that the platform is secure.
Washington  Thirty-five years after Wallie Howard Jr. was shot and killed during an undercover drug bust, Rep. John Mannion wants to help keep the Syracuse police officers name remembered.

Mannion plans to introduce a bill Wednesday that would name the only remaining post office on Syracuses South Side in honor of Howard, who was killed in a grocery stores parking lot only blocks away.

If the bill is signed into law, the Colvin-Elmwood Post Office at 2200 S. Salina St. would become the Officer Wallie J. Howard Post Office Building.

It would be the second building in Syracuse to be named in honor of Howard. In 2007, Onondaga County designated its new forensic laboratories the Wallie Howard Jr. Center for Forensic Sciences.

Mannion, D-Geddes, said the bill has broad bipartisan support in the Republican-controlled House.

Rep. Claudia Tenney, a Republican from Oswego County, is among the bills 17 co-sponsors, all House members from New York.

Howard, 31, was killed Oct. 30, 1990, outside Marios Market at 2735 S. Salina St., where he was waiting in a car to make an undercover drug buy of 4 pounds of cocaine.

23 1 / 23 Syracuse police officer Wallie Howard Jr., murdered in 1990

At the time of the shooting, Howard was the first Syracuse police officer slain in the line of duty since 1929.

The father of two graduated from Henninger High School and attended Syracuse University before joining the Syracuse police in 1982.

Naming the South Salina Street Post Office in his honor ensures that future generations will remember his bravery and dedication to the city he served, Mannion said in a statement.

The U.S. Postal Service considered closing the Colvin-Elmwood Post Office in 2011. It was included on a list of 3,700 post offices nationwide marked as candidates to be shuttered in a cost-cutting move.

But the Postal Service decided to keep the office open, in part, because Onondaga County agreed to install a green roof with vegetative cover that could cut the cost of heating and cooling the building.

South Side residents had circulated petitions to keep the post office open. If it closed, the nearest post office would have been in downtown Syracuse at 444 S. Salina St.

After the shooting, Robert Bam Bam Lawrence, then 16, was convicted of murder. He had approached Howard with two accomplices to rob him of cash he carried for the drug deal.

Lawrence was granted parole and released from prison in 2020 two days before the anniversary of Howards murder.

Lawrence had been sentenced to serve life in prison. But after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in 2012 that juveniles shouldnt be given life sentences, a federal judge reduced his sentence to 31 years.

A second man convicted for his role in the murder, Jaime A. Davidson, was released from prison in 2021 after President Donald Trump commuted his sentence.

Davidsons release after nearly 29 years in prison outraged and stunned Central New York law enforcement officials.
The Rev. Michael Heath, of Fayetteville, is a licensed mental health counselor and a United Church of Christ minister.

There is a quiet crisis among many young men regarding masculinity and what it means to be a man.

Responses are polarized, either demonizing men or doubling down on traditional machismo. According to a professor and a governor, there is a better way.

NYU professor, podcaster and personal finance guru Scott Galloways new book, Notes on Being a Man, and California Democratic Gov. Gavin Newsoms recent criticisms of his own party for walking away from men suggest a more reasonable alternative.

The crisis with masculinity is a dilemma: How can men be men without being toxic to women? The term toxic masculinity arose in the wake of high-profile sex abuse cases involving the likes of Bill Cosby and Jeffrey Epstein.

The Me Too movement affected young men differently. For some, it expanded their self-awareness and motivated more respectful behavior toward women,

For others, however, the effect was negative. Multiple studies cited by Galloway reveal that it contributed to a number of serious problems, including alienation, rage, declining performance, increasing clinical depression and suicide.

Responses from left and right

In response, there have been two reactions with opposite perspectives.

From the left, social and political progressives have not been helpful. They have condemned traditional male characteristics and adopted a predominantly feminist perspective. Their lack of empathy failed to provide any constructive solutions to change the situation.

From the right, political conservatives have tended to minimize the harm of abusive men, casting them as the victims of toxic feminism.

Besides politicians, a number of groups have emerged to provide support for estranged men.

Incels: For some time, incels (involuntarily celibate) are alienated men who are hostile to feminism, blaming them for their inability to find loving and intimate relationships. Indeed, young men are having less sex. Studies show that a high percentage of them havent had sex in over a year. As a group, incels exhibit not only a sense of alienation but, overall, very poor self-esteem and a poor level of mental health.

Turning Point: The late Charlie Kirks Turning Point USA drew millions of followers, in part, because it responded to mens sense of alienation. While feeling their pain, he also understood their anger as he attacked progressives over-feminization of men. Kirk emphasized traditional biblical images of men as being the strong heads of the family. Likewise, he attacked feminism and promoted the submission of women to men.

Groypers: Nick Fuentes and the Groypers validated young mens anger and expressed their rage at women, society and government. Like Kirk, they criticize feminists for wanting to soften men and deny them their essential nature.

Masculinity in a new key

In addition to the liberal and conservative approaches, there is a third alternative. It involves empathizing with young mens experience but also casting masculinity in a non-abusive way.

It is possible, in fact, it is necessary to denounce abusive sexual behavior without condemning men as a gender. Further, it is crucial to show them how to feel good about themselves as men.

Galloway, in his book Notes on Being a Man, expressed concerns of both the left and right. He is deeply aware of young mens plight, and he affirms the traditional notions of masculinity, but in a different way.

The traditional traits of strength, power and leadership are virtues when expressed in the context of protective responsibility. Authentic masculinity must be used in the service of others, i.e., to provide for and protect families, community, nation and planet, and not simply selfishly.

Galloway offers a positive approach for men to reclaim their masculine identity without its traditionally abusive tendencies.

To make meaningful progress to decrease sexual violence against women, there must be a political/institutional component. Newsoms criticism of Democrats for abandoning men provides a wake-up call for his party. He is urging them to make the masculinity crisis a priority in their legislative goals. Without saying so explicitly, I believe that Newsom was calling for a Title IX-style initiative for men.

Such educational programs could teach responsible sexuality and the obligation for men to use their power and strength not only for their own desires but also for protecting others.

In this light, Galloway, Newsom and even Kirk agree. With this reasonable approach that avoids either extreme, men can be supported, abusiveness can be reduced, and traditional masculine values can be affirmed, but without brutality.
A 4-year-old girl who was fatally hit by a school bus in Upstate New York has been identified.

Leanna Herrera of Jamestown, N.Y., was named Tuesday by Jamestown Police as the child who was struck by a Panama Central School District bus. The incident occurred Monday morning around 8:10 a.m. at the intersection of Cole Avenue and Whitehill Avenue, outside Milton J. Fletcher Elementary School in Jamestown.

Herrera was taken to UPMC Chautauqua at WCA Hospital, where she died from her injuries.

Police told WGRZ that they are still investigating the incident and all parties involved are cooperating. No charges have been filed for the driver.

The child was struck by a Panama Central School District bus which was in the process of dropping off another out of district student, police said. There was one student on the bus along with the driver at the time of the incident; neither was injured.

According to WIVB, the area is known to be busy in the morning with children walking around getting ready for school. Police have not said if Herrera was walking in a crosswalk when she was hit.

Some parents told both Buffalo TV stations that more crossing guards or other changes are needed to ensure childrens safety. Jamestown Deputy Police Chief Scott Forster told WGRZ that crossing guards are hired by the police department but paid by the Jamestown City School District.

Theres a lot of kids that go back and forth across the street using the crosswalk and getting to and from school. So as far as having a lot of accidents there - we have not, Forster said. Weve always assessed (potentially hiring additional crossing guards). To be honest this is the first year - the first school year in a long time - that weve had crossing guards for every elementary school. So for us its always been a struggle to get one for each school. But that is something that could be looked at. We assess that all the time. We have the most crossing guards now that weve ever had.

Additional details have not been released.

Jamestown is located in Chautauqua County, about 65 miles south of Buffalo.

We are heartbroken by this devastating news, and our thoughts are with the students family and friends, Jamestown Public Schools Superintendent Kevin Whitaker said in a statement. This is an unimaginable loss for the Fletcher community and for all of Jamestown Public Schools.

Whitaker said Fletcher Elementary Schools Crisis Intervention Team will be available for students, parents and school staff. Counselors are also available for any student who may need or want help or any type of assistance surrounding the loss.
JERUSALEM, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Israeli defense electronics firm Elbit Systems said Wednesday that it has signed 210-million-U.S. dollar contracts with the Israeli Defense Ministry to upgrade the country's main battle tanks.

Under the batch of contracts, to be implemented over six years, Israel's Merkava, a series of main battle tanks developed and used by the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), will be modernized with lightweight, AI-enhanced electro-optical sights, as well as advanced target detection, acquisition, and tracking, among other features, the firm said in a statement.

These upgrades aim to enhance the operational effectiveness and survivability of Israel's armored forces, it added.

The Merkava, which entered official production in April 1979 and began operational service with the IDF the same year, has been upgraded over the years. 
A former Upstate New York police chief has been arrested on allegations he stole money.

John Hudson, 40, of Troy, is accused of using the Town of Hoosick Falls Rescue Squad funds to purchase more than $1,000 worth of tires for his personal vehicle. Hudson, who was the officer-in-charge of the Village of Hoosick Falls Police Department and former chief of the rescue squad, turned himself in to New York State Police Tuesday.

Those entrusted with enforcing the law must be held to the highest standards and will be held accountable for any criminal conduct, State Comptroller Thomas P. DiNapoli said in a statement. Hudson, while in charge of the Hoosick Falls Police Department, allegedly abused his position of trust at the rescue squad to financially benefit himself.

According to DiNapoli, his office received a complaint earlier this year about purchases Hudson made. A joint investigation with NYS Police was launched.

Investigators said Hudson purchased four tires for a personal vehicle using $1241.36 in rescue squad funds. The tires were shipped to the squad, but were not the correct size for use on any squad vehicles and were allegedly taken by Hudson for personal use.

Hudson was placed on administrative leave from the police department in April as a result of the investigation. He was later terminated from both the police department and rescue squad in May.

He has since repaid the money he misappropriated, DiNapolis office said.

Hudson has been charged with grand larceny in the fourth degree as a crime of public corruption and official misconduct. Hes scheduled to appear in Hoosick Falls Town Court on Thursday.

Hoosick Falls is located in Rensselaer County, about 25 miles outside of Troy and 30 miles northeast of Albany.

Mr. Hudson violated the confidence instilled in him by the Town of Hoosick Rescue Squad and Hoosick Falls Police Department by disregarding his oath and allegedly stealing funds he was not entitled to, New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James said. We will continue to vigorously investigate any case involving public corruption and those who take advantage of their position at the expense of the community. I applaud the work of the State Police members assigned to this case, the Comptrollers Office, and the Rensselaer County District Attorneys Office for their perseverance and dedicated work that led to this arrest.
Instant text translation is increasingly vital in a connected world where language barriers often hinder communication. Android devices offer robust built-in tools that let users translate text quickly and effortlessly.

This article explores how to translate text instantly using Android's native features, focusing on Android translate text functionality, Google Lens translation, and real-time translate capabilities. Understanding these tools allows users to access seamless multilingual support without installing third-party apps.

Android's Built-In Translation Tools Overview

Android offers several integrated features for instant text translation. The most prominent tools include the Google Translate app integration, Google Lens translation, and the system-wide real-time translate feature introduced in recent Android versions. These tools collectively enhance translation accuracy and convenience, enabling real-time communication and understanding across different languages.

Google Translate integration lets users copy and translate text across various apps, while Google Lens adds the ability to translate printed or on-screen text simply by aiming the device's camera. Real-time translate takes this further by translating spoken or typed words instantly during conversation or within apps.

These tools leverage Google's advanced AI-powered language models, which continuously improve translation quality. Google Translate supports over 100 languages, enabling broader communication options. Additionally, integrating these translation functions deeply into Android's operating system means translations are accessible without launching dedicated apps, optimizing user speed and convenience.

Using Google Lens for Instant Translation

Google Lens is a powerful Android feature that combines camera functionality with artificial intelligence to provide immediate translation of text visible through the camera. It supports numerous languages and excels at translating printed signs, menus, and other physical text, making it ideal for travel and everyday use.

To use Google Lens translation:

Open the Google Lens app or access Lens through the Google Assistant or Google Photos.

Point the camera at the text you want translated. Google Lens automatically detects the text.

Select the "Translate" function. The text on screen will be overlaid with the translated version in the chosen target language.

Google Lens translation is invaluable because it translates text in situ without requiring manual input, preserving context and layout. It also supports live translation, allowing users to see new text and translations as they move the camera.

Moreover, Google Lens's ability to recognize handwriting means it can translate handwritten notes or signs in some cases, which expands its usability beyond standard printed text. The feature also works well in augmented reality, seamlessly overlaying translations on live scenes, enhancing the user experience by reducing cognitive load when switching between languages.

Enabling and Using Real-Time Translate on Android

Real-time translate extends Android's translation capabilities to live conversation and app texts. This feature became more accessible with Android 11 and newer versions, offering instant translation across supported apps and communication platforms.

To enable real-time translation:

Navigate to Android settings > System > Languages & input > Live Transcribe & Sound Notifications.

Activate the real-time translation option and configure the source and target languages.

Once enabled, real-time translation can convert speech or typed text instantly, facilitating multilingual conversations without switching apps. For example, users can speak in one language, and the device displays the translation instantly, which helps in calls, messaging, or in-person chats.

Real-time translation is ideal for dynamic, conversational scenarios because it reduces delays and eliminates the need to copy and paste text or switch between translation apps. It also supports multiple languages simultaneously in certain apps, enhancing group discussions with participants speaking diverse languages.

Additionally, real-time translate leverages edge computing to process translations quickly and with minimal latency. This ensures smoother conversations even with fluctuating internet connections. Google continues to expand compatibility, enabling real-time translation functions in messaging apps like WhatsApp and video calling platforms, which broadens daily usability.

Tips for Effective Android Text Translation

To maximize the effectiveness of Android's translation tools, users should consider these best practices:

Set preferred languages clearly in both Google Translate and Google Lens to ensure accurate and relevant translations.

Use offline translation packs for Google Translate and Lens to maintain functionality without internet access, particularly useful while traveling.

Capture text in good lighting and with clear fonts to improve Google Lens recognition accuracy.

Regularly update Google apps to benefit from improved language support and translation algorithms.

In addition, users should familiarize themselves with the privacy settings related to translation apps. Google provides options to manage data sharing and control offline storage, enhancing user privacy when using these features.

Using voice input combined with real-time translation can make communication more natural, especially in hands-free scenarios or when typing is inconvenient. Pairing translation features with smart device capabilities, such as headphones or smartwatches, can further streamline multilingual interactions.

Android devices offer versatile and powerful tools for instant text translation, making language barriers easier to overcome. Whether using Google Lens translation for quick visual translation or leveraging real-time translate for conversational needs, users benefit from seamless multilingual communication.

By understanding and applying these built-in features, users can make use of Android Translate text efficiently, enhancing their global digital experience without relying on external apps or manual text entry.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How accurate is Android's translate text feature?

Android's translation accuracy largely depends on the language pair and the clarity of the text. While translations for widely spoken languages like English, Spanish, and Chinese are highly reliable, less common languages or complex phrases may be less precise. Google continuously improves its AI models, enhancing output quality over time.

2. Can you translate text without copying it on Android?

Yes, tools like Google Lens and real-time translation eliminate the need for manual copying. Google Lens directly translates printed or on-screen text via the camera view, while system-wide real-time translate converts spoken or typed input automatically.

3. Does Google Lens work offline for translation?

Google Lens supports limited offline functionality if users download language packs through Google Translate. However, full-featured live translation generally requires an internet connection for the best accuracy.

4. How do I translate text from screenshots on Android?

Google Lens can analyze screenshots stored on the device. Opening a screenshot in Google Photos and tapping the Lens icon allows users to extract and translate text from images, making it convenient for translating digital content without retyping.
Microsoft's Windows 11 is becoming a considerably smarter operating system, thanks to the company's surprise update packed full of advanced AI capabilities.

One of the most notable improvements for the Copilot assistant: it's now integrated more deeply than before, so users can manage tasks by voice, screen-based insights, and automation.

Wake Up Windows with 'Hey Copilot'

According to Microsoft's latest blog post, the most striking addition is the voice-activated Copilot. By simply saying, "Hey Copilot," users can summon the AI assistant forthwith. This hands-free activation makes it easier than ever to tackle tasks without navigating menus or switching windows.

Another major upgrade, Copilot Vision, lets the AI "see" what is on your screen. Whether it is a document, photo, or application, Copilot will be able to analyze its content and provide immediate contextual help. Besides opening the door to smarter and more rapid interaction, this functionality reduces friction in completing even the most complex tasks.

AI-Enhanced Productivity Across Windows

Copilot is integrated throughout Windows 11, including in File Explorer, automatically organizing the files there and allowing users to invoke small AI helpers right off the taskbar. That means repetitive tasks-like summarizing documents, sorting images, managing emails, or adjusting system settings-can now be done with a simple voice or text prompt.

According to Digital Trends, Copilot can summarize long research papers for students in mere seconds. Professionals who have to manage multiple email accounts and different calendars can centrally manage their workflow without any fuss.

Centralizing commands eliminates the need to dig through menus, as tedious multi-step tasks are now instant, actionable outcomes.

Why This Copilot Update is Important

The push by Microsoft to make Windows 11 an "agentic OS" is no wonder a game-changer that Windows users want to see. It is not just about being reactive; the AI proactively manages tasks across your programs.

For instance, Copilot Vision will summarize a PDF or help with that complex spreadsheet, even integrating data from OneDrive, Gmail, Outlook, and Google Calendar, all in one unified workflow.
Cloudflare has resolved a major outage that briefly disrupted large parts of the internet on Tuesday, temporarily knocking major websites offline and causing widespread 500 internal server error messages.

The disruption began early in the day, when Cloudflare acknowledged availability issues affecting its support portal. Within 30 minutes, the company issued warnings that its Global Network  a massive infrastructure spanning over 330 cities and more than 120 countries  was experiencing widespread failures.

Cloudflare is aware of, and investigating an issue which impacts multiple customers: Widespread 500 errors, Cloudflare Dashboard and API also failing. We are working to understand the full impact and mitigate this problem. More updates to follow shortly, the company said.

The network provides content delivery, DDoS protection, and performance services through more than 449 Tbps of global edge capacity and direct links to 13,000+ networks, including major ISPs, cloud providers, enterprises, and online platforms.

Even platforms not directly hosted on Cloudflare experienced massive spikes in error reports, such as Spotify, Twitter, OpenAI, AWS, League of Legends, and Google, suggesting major services were impacted either directly or indirectly through Cloudflare-dependent infrastructure.

A Routine Update Meets A Hidden Bug

Dane Knecht, Cloudflares Chief Technology Officer (CTO), addressed the outage shortly in a direct and unusually candid statement on X (formerly Twitter). He apologized and explained what went wrong.

I wont mince words: earlier today we failed our customers and the broader Internet when a problem in @Cloudflare network impacted large amounts of traffic that rely on us. The sites, businesses, and organizations that rely on Cloudflare depend on us being available and I apologize for the impact that we caused, Knecht wrote.

Transparency about what happened matters, and we plan to share a breakdown with more details in a few hours. In short, a latent bug in a service underpinning our bot mitigation capability started to crash after a routine configuration change we made. That cascaded into a broad degradation to our network and other services. This was not an attack.

Stages Of Recovery

Cloudflares network began experiencing significant failures to deliver core network traffic at 11:28 UTC. At 11:31 UTC, the first automated test detected the issue, and manual investigation started at 11:32 UTC. The incident call was created at 11:35 UTC. By 14:30 UTC, the main impact was resolved, and downstream impacted services started observing reduced errors.

As engineers continued remediation efforts, the company acknowledged that analytics, logs, and dashboard tools continued to experience delays into the afternoon. Finally, at 17:06 UTC  six hours after the outage began  Cloudflare announced that all downstream services had restarted and all operations had been fully restored.

Cloudflare services are currently operating normally. We are no longer observing elevated errors or latency across the network, the company confirmed.

Our engineering teams continue to closely monitor the platform and perform a deeper investigation into the earlier disruption, but no configuration changes are being made at this time.

Knecht emphasized that Cloudflare is investigating how such a latent fault went undetected and is working on long-term improvements to prevent similar issues.

The trust our customers place in us is what we value the most, he said. We are going to do what it takes to earn that back.

A Growing Pattern Of Infrastructure Failures

This latest disruption fits into a worrying pattern for the backbone of the internet. Earlier this year, Cloudflare dealt with a June outage that crippled Zero Trust WARP traffic, followed by a sweeping DNS issue in October that took out millions of AWS-hosted websites.

And the problem isnt limited to Cloudflare. Just last month, AWS and Azure also suffered major outages, reminding users that the largest cloud providers  despite their scale  remain far from infallible.

Together, these incidents reveal an uncomfortable truth about todays internet that even a minor internal error within a backbone provider like Cloudflare can trigger global consequences.
CANBERRA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Australian research reveals a dramatic rise in social media use among children and teens, with daily users soaring by more than 200 percent from 2019 to 2022.

University of South Australia (UniSA) researchers tracked more than 14,000 South Australian students aged 11-14 from 2019 to 2022, uncovering a dramatic shift in how young people spend their time, according to a UniSA news release on Wednesday.

Over the four years, daily social media use jumped from 26 percent to 85.4 percent, and non-users plummeted from 30.6 percent to 2.6 percent, while participation in sport, reading, music and art has sharply declined, according to the study published in JAMA Network Open.

The share of children who never read for fun rose from 10.8 percent to 52.6 percent, and those not involved in arts activities up from 25.7 percent to 70.4 percent, it said.

"There's no doubt that social media has become deeply embedded in children's daily lives," replacing activities that support healthy development, said UniSA researcher Mi Zhou, one of the study's corresponding authors.

The findings come as Australia prepares to implement a nation-leading restriction on social media access for children under 16, providing an essential baseline for evaluating how such interventions affect young people's after-school activity patterns. 
Australia says it would not veto Turkey as COP host



Sydney, Nov 18 (AFP) Nov 18, 2025



Australia's prime minister said he would not block Turkey hosting the 2026 UN climate conference, indicating Canberra may step aside to solve a diplomatic feud overshadowing this year's talks.

Diplomats at the ongoing COP30 conference in Brazil have just days left to settle rival bids from Australia and Turkey.

If neither country agrees to step aside, the COP31 conference will be hosted by default in the German city of Bonn -- an outcome most are eager to avoid.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday evening gave the first hint he may be willing to back down.

"If Australia is not chosen, if Turkey is chosen, we wouldn't seek to veto that," he told reporters in a press conference.

There is no official vote to choose the successful hosting bid.

Under United Nations rules, a winner can only be chosen by consensus -- meaning that unless Australia or Turkey withdraws, both could miss out.

"The way that the system works is that if there is not agreement and there's more than one candidate, it goes to Bonn," said Albanese.

"There is considerable concern, not just from the Pacific, but internationally as well, that that will not send a good signal about the unity that's needed for the world to act on climate."

Australia has been vying to host the COP31 summit alongside its low-lying Pacific islands neighbours, which occupy one of the most climate-threatened areas of the planet.

Albanese said even if Australia stepped back, he would still look for ways to keep the plight of the Pacific on the agenda.

"What we would seek to do is to ensure that the Pacific benefited from that, through measures, potentially like a leaders meeting, to be held in the Pacific."

Australia has already rejected Turkey's offer to share the presidency, saying it was not feasible to split those complex duties between two distant countries.
Haitian gangs getting rich off murky market for baby eels



United Nations, United States, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Gangs in Haiti are profiting from a lucrative trade in baby eels caught in the crime-ridden country's rivers and estuaries and sold abroad for thousands of dollars.

Demand for the worm-like creatures with dots for eyes comes largely from Asia and is filling the coffers of the criminal organizations terrorizing Haiti, experts warn.

Known in Haitian creole as "Zangi", the glass eels drift each year from the Sargasso Sea in the North Atlantic to the ocean's coasts -- including along the coasts of the island of Hispaniola, shared by Haiti and the Dominican Republic.

They infiltrate the rivers where they grow until they return to sea to reproduce.

The global trade of European eels has been strictly controlled since 2009 by the CITES convention on endangered species, but the trade of American eels is not.

They are however classed as endangered on the International Union for Conservation of Nature's Red List of Threatened Species -- primarily due to overfishing of the species which commercial fish farms cannot breed in captivity.

They are used to supply farms where they are fattened up for sale in Asia where eels are a highly sought delicacy.

Haiti along with the Dominican Republic has become a key exporter of American eels in recent years, CITES says.

To protect American and European eels, indistinguishable to the naked eye, from continuing to be shipped to Asia under false labels, the EU and Panama want CITES to restrict the trade of all eels.

If their move is adopted at a meeting in Uzbekistan starting on November 24 "it will certainly penalize several stakeholders -- exporters in particular -- as well as poor and vulnerable small-scale fishermen" in Haiti, Natural Resources Minister Vernet Joseph told AFP.

To protect the species, Haiti -- which is not a party to CITES -- has implemented a "modest approach," significantly reducing the overall harvest, while acknowledging a lack of reliable data on exploitation of the species.



- 'Like the Mafia' -



Haiti's glass eel industry is entirely geared to export, is not "organized" and does not record "clear and reliable data -- whether at the level of fishermen or the government," an environmental activist told AFP on condition of anonymity.

"It's a sector like the Mafia."

Ghada Waly, the outgoing head of the UN's drugs and crime office, warned "there is growing evidence that several Haitian nationals are part of a wider criminal network connected to lucrative eel trafficking, operating in Haiti and beyond."

Evidence showed "powerful political and economic figures in Haiti use the eel industry to launder drug profits," she added.

UN experts charged with enforcing sanctions have stepped up their monitoring of fishermen, intermediaries, customs officers and airlines.

In a report published in October, they criticized how the opaque and unregulated sector had created "an ideal environment for criminals to launder money."

The government is responsible for fishing licenses -- but a lack of controls allows for money laundering, fishermen and couriers to be extorted by gangs, with contraband often added to their outbound shipments, the experts said.

Reliable data is scanty, but experts point to a 2009 government estimate of an export "capacity" of 800 tons -- enough to make the trade highly lucrative.

One gram of exported Haitian eels -- seven to 10 actual specimens -- can be sold for between $3.60 and $4.50, with the fishermen paid between 50 cents and $1.50 a kilo.

Though paid a fraction of the eels' true value, the sums earned by the fishing community are still significant and attractive at a time of deep crisis in Haiti.

Between fall and spring, the fishermen "spend 12 hours in challenging conditions, barefoot in the waters of the river mouths, from 6 pm until sunrise -- all without appropriate kit," said the environmental campaigner.

To catch the minute, translucent fish, fishermen often use mosquito nets in wooden frames.

A fisherman in Bas-Limbe anonymously told the UN sanctions report's authors it was "every man for himself" and that he had seen hundreds of people hospitalized for various ailments including infections.

The campaigner said "it would be better to put an end to eel fishing and help supply fishing communities with equipment to catch other species of seafood."
BEIJING, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A mainland spokesperson on Wednesday warned Taiwan authorities against currying favor with the United States at the cost of Taiwan people and its own economy, saying that such acts will only end up being exploited as the U.S. always prioritizes "America First."

Zhu Fenglian, a spokesperson for the State Council Taiwan Affairs Office, made the remarks in response to a media report claiming that in their tariff negotiations, the United States asked Taiwan to invest 350 to 550 billion U.S. dollars in the U.S.

Expressing a high level of concern, Zhu noted that such an investment amount is equivalent to 44 to 69 percent of Taiwan's 2024 GDP and accounts for 58 to 92 percent of its foreign exchange reserve in October.

"If the report is true, it only proves that the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) authorities are willing to sacrifice Taiwan people's hard-earned money and disregard Taiwan businesses' interests in pursuit of external support for their separatist scheme," Zhu said.

Such acts will lead to the movement of capital, technology and talent from Taiwan to the United States, gravely damaging Taiwan's industrial development, Zhu added.

"More and more facts are making the people of Taiwan realize that the United States always prioritizes 'America First,'" said Zhu.

In response to another media report saying that Taiwan leader Lai Ching-te is seeking to "transit" through the United States before the end of the year, Zhu voiced firm opposition to such acts in any form and under any pretext.

"We urge the U.S. side to adhere to the one-China principle and relevant provisions of the three China-U.S. joint communiques, cope with the Taiwan question with double prudence, and not to send any wrong signals to 'Taiwan independence' separatist forces," Zhu said.

Zhu also warned Lai and the DPP authorities that any attempt to seek "independence" by relying on external forces is destined to fail. 
In Kyrgyzstan, world's largest natural walnut forest thins away



Arslanbap, Kyrgyzstan, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Rustling through fallen golden leaves, locals in a forest outside Arslanbob in the Kyrgyz mountains were scurrying for walnuts -- an ancient pastime and economic lifeline for the region.

But the forest, the world's largest wild walnut grove, has for years been slowly fading -- hit by the overgrazing of livestock, illegal logging and rising temperatures.

"The forest used to be so dense but it has thinned out," said Asel Alisheva, a pensioner from the village, officially known as Arslanbap, who has been foraging there for decades.

She was once afraid to venture too far into the woods.

"It used to be impossible to walk through. Now there are so many people," she told AFP.

"The difference is striking," the 70-year-old added as she cracked walnuts in a roadside tent.

Locals have gathered the earthy tough-shelled nuts here for generations.

They are both an economic staple and a symbol of the Jalal-Abad region.

"Nowhere else in the world is there such a large concentration of natural walnut forests," said regional forestry expert Zakir Sarymsakov.

He also highlighted the "vast variety" of walnut species that can be found in the region.

For locals, walnuts are a bread-and-butter issue.

"This is how we make a living. There are no other ways, only walnuts. This is how we feed our children," said Arno Narynbaeva, 53, who has been picking them since childhood.



- Poor harvests -



At the bustling village bazaar, men stack bulging walnut sacks, while women do the trade.

But business has seen better days -- the harvests have been poor lately.

"In the 2000s, we used to receive large quantities, up to 15 tons per day. These days, we get three to four, and it decreases year by year," seller Zhazgul Omurzakova said.

"The climate is getting hotter and drier every year, and the nuts are losing their quality, turning red inside," the 47-year-old said.

Whiter kernels are worth more as the nuts' visual appeal is important for pastry-makers.

"Hot weather harms the walnuts. They fall, burn, and turn black," said picker Narynbaeva.

"We have never seen this happen before."

Average temperatures in Central Asia have risen by about 1.5C since 1991, twice the global average, according to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), a UN climate agency.

More frequent droughts that accompany the hotter weather have also hit the walnut groves.

Locals are trying to address the problem, including by seeding millions of trees in the Arslanbob forest nursery.

But water shortages, chronic across Central Asia, have hit those efforts.

"Over the past two to three years, there has been no rain, and it has become hot," said Temir Emirov, who works in the tree nursery.

"The ground has dried out, and the grass has withered," he added.

"The seedlings haven't received water for a month and are using their own moisture to survive."



- 'Big plans' -



Other human activity is also taking a toll on the forest.

"Since we don't have pastures, livestock is a problem," said chief forest ranger Ibragim Turgunbekov.

Cattle herds, expanding in size and number, have trampled the soil and eaten young shoots.

Illegal logging -- with locals preferring trees over more expensive coal for firewood -- has also thinned out the forest.

Turgunbekov issues fines and tries to convince farmers to reduce the size of their herds.

Local imams have even called on their followers to help preserve the walnut trees.

Some want stricter measures, such as taxing surplus livestock or a government ban on grazing near settlements.

Turgunbekov said a solution could be better utilising the walnuts' economic potential.

"If we make perfumes or oils out of walnuts and ship them to Europe, their value will increase," he said.

"By selling at higher prices, locals will be more motivated and will take better care of the forest."

Abdulaziz Khalmuradov, 16, is one of the region's young people trying to do just that.

After school, he makes walnut oil using a traditional press.

"I want to increase the number of machines and produce not only walnut oil but also many other types, such as apricot oil," the aspiring entrepreneur told AFP.

He also wants to push sustainable tourism to the region.

"Tourism in Arslanbob is underdeveloped. If the number of tourists increases, volumes will increase," he told AFP.

"When I grow up, I have big plans."
Australia says it would not block Turkey as COP host



Sydney, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Australia's prime minister said he would not block Turkey hosting the 2026 UN climate conference, indicating Canberra may step aside to solve a diplomatic feud overshadowing this year's talks.

Diplomats at the ongoing COP30 conference in Brazil have just days left to settle rival bids from Australia and Turkey.

If neither country agrees to step aside, the COP31 conference will be hosted by default in the German city of Bonn -- an outcome most are eager to avoid.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese on Tuesday evening gave the first hint he may be willing to back down.

"If Australia is not chosen, if Turkey is chosen, we wouldn't seek to veto that," he told reporters.

There is no official vote to choose the successful hosting bid.

Under United Nations rules, a winner can only be chosen by consensus.

This means that unless Australia or Turkey withdraws, both could miss out.

"The way that the system works is that if there is not agreement and there's more than one candidate, it goes to Bonn," said Albanese.

"There is considerable concern, not just from the Pacific, but internationally as well, that that will not send a good signal about the unity that's needed for the world to act on climate."

Australia has been vying to host the COP31 summit alongside Pacific island neighbours threatened by tropical cyclones and rising seas.

But the government is reportedly split on whether it should forge ahead to host an event that some estimates suggest could cost up to US$1.3 billion.



- Pacific plight -



Albanese said even if Australia stepped back, he would still look for ways to keep the plight of the Pacific on the agenda.

"What we would seek to do is to ensure that the Pacific benefited from that, through measures, potentially like a leaders meeting, to be held in the Pacific."

Following Albanese's comments, an Australian government spokesperson stressed that the nation still had "overwhelming support" as prospective hosts.

"But of course we will continue to negotiate with Turkey in good faith for an outcome in the best interests of the Pacific and our national interest," the spokesperson said.

As recently as Monday, climate minister Chris Bowen said Australia was still "fighting hard" to beat Turkey's bid.

"We don't know how it'll go. But we're in it to win it," he told AFP in Brazil.

Australia has already rejected Turkey's offer to share the presidency, saying it was not feasible to split those complex duties between two distant countries.
Nations 'still far' from deal at UN climate talks: France



Belem, Brazil, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



France's environment minister said Wednesday that governments remain far from reaching a deal at UN climate talks in Brazil, but she was nonetheless "more optimistic" than the day before.

COP30 host Brazil released a draft deal Tuesday, hoping to get nations to agree on the most contentious points as soon as Wednesday, two days before the conference is scheduled to end in Belem.

"No, there will not be a COP decision today (Wednesday). I don't see how that could happen," French ecological transition minister Monique Barbut told AFP.

"However, yes, there is a little bit of movement. But we are still far from the mark because for us, it must be a comprehensive package," Barbut said after a coordination meeting with European colleagues.

She added, however, that she was "more optimistic" than she was the day before.

The text must bridge wide gaps on developed countries' financial commitments, "unilateral" trade measures and the phaseout of fossil fuels.

A new text is due to be published on Wednesday.

European nations have rejected calls from developing nations to step up their commitments on climate finance.

"We're not looking at any increases in adaptation finance," Irish climate minister Darragh O'Brien said.
EU states back new delay to anti-deforestation rules



Brussels, Belgium, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



EU member states Wednesday backed a new one-year delay to landmark anti-deforestation rules that have hit a wall of opposition from businesses and trading partners, diplomats told AFP.

Already delayed by a year, the rollout of the law banning imports of products driving deforestation would be pushed back to the end of 2026 under plans backed by a majority of member states. These still need approval by the EU parliament.

Led by Germany and Austria, EU capitals also backed holding a review of the sweeping legislation in April next year -- before it even comes into force.

The new delay goes further than a six-month grace period for large firms already proposed by the European Commission, while backing a push to cut back reporting requirements including for small companies.

Pierre-Jean Sol Brasier of the Fern environmental group said the move sent a "disastrous signal at every level," calling the back and forth on the law "a caricature of incompetent EU policymaking".

"We are creating instability for companies that have invested millions" towards compliance, warned Sol Brasier, who said the door was now open "for EU lawmakers to eviscerate" the text.



- 'Reward inaction -



Adopted in 2023, the deforestation law, known as EUDR, was hailed by green groups as a major breakthrough in the fight to protect nature and combat climate change.

But the law has faced stiff opposition from trading partners including Brazil and the United States, as well as some EU capitals, who argue businesses will suffer from red tape and increased costs.

The law bans goods produced using land deforested after December 2020, with at-risk items including anything from coffee to cocoa, soy, timber, palm oil, cattle, printing paper and rubber.

Firms importing such merchandise to the 27-nation European Union will need to provide a statement alongside geolocation and satellite data to show the goods did not originate from deforested zones.

Under the original plan, such papers had to be submitted also by companies who then purchase, process and sell the items -- for example, sweet makers who buy cocoa to make chocolates.

But the commission later decided the extra layer of checks risked overloading the IT system designed to support the rules -- and called for axing the requirement for all but first importers.

Beyond environmental advocates, the flip-flopping over the rules has also rankled firms that have already invested large sums to comply.

Italian chocolate-maker Ferrero and Swiss food giant Nestle are among two dozen businesses that warned this week a further one-year delay would "prolong legal and market uncertainty, penalise first movers, and reward inaction."

"We've done this investment in good faith because we thought there was a sense of direction -- and now it's being questioned," Francesco Tramontin, a senior executive with Nutella-maker Ferrero, told a news conference Monday.
Brazil's Lula hunts for deal at Amazon climate summit



Belem, Brazil, Nov 19 (AFP) Nov 19, 2025



Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva hit the corridors of COP30 in Belem on Wednesday, in a push to land a deal at the UN climate talks as nations remained divided over contentious issues.

Lula flew into the Amazonian city to bring the weight of the presidency to the talks, in a rare late-stage visit by a head of state or government at the annual gathering.

COP30 host Brazil released a draft pact on Tuesday and pushed negotiators to work through the night, hoping to get nations to agree on the most disputed points as soon as Wednesday -- two days before the conference is scheduled to end.

Lula, who has invested political capital into making what he dubbed the "COP of truth" a success, shuttled between rooms to meet with ministers of various negotiating groups.

"His willingness to make time in his busy schedule to give new momentum to the COP is tremendously important," EU climate commissioner Wopke Hoekstra said in a statement after meeting with Lula.

But as the day progressed, a deal had yet to materialize.

The disagreements center on the impact of trade measures, language on transitioning away from fossil fuels, and demands for developed countries to provide more climate finance to poorer nations.

French ecological transition minister Monique Barbut knocked back Brazilian hopes of securing a deal as soon as Wednesday.

"No, there will not be a COP decision today. I don't see how that could happen," Barbut told AFP.

"However, yes, there is a little bit of movement. But we are still far from the mark because for us, it must be a comprehensive package," Barbut said after a coordination meeting with European colleagues.

She added, however, that she was "more optimistic" than she was the day before.



- No more money -



The draft underscores the gulf between a broad coalition of more than 80 countries pushing for a "roadmap" on phasing out fossil fuels and an opposing bloc led by oil-producing countries.

"Whether we're going to call it the roadmap or we're going to use a different wording, I think is secondary. But once again, we very much like the idea," Hoekstra said at a news conference.

Further complicating matters, there are visible cracks on the Brazilians' front.

The idea of a roadmap, pushed by Lula himself, was never taken up by the summit's president -- led by diplomats who are seen by observers as close to business circles, and under pressure from nations that do not want it brought up.

Negotiators are also at loggerheads over pressure from the developing world for developed countries to provide more finance to help vulnerable nations adapt to climate change and deploy renewable energy.

The COP29 summit in Baku last year concluded with developed nations agreeing to provide $300 billion a year in climate finance, a figure criticized by developing countries as woefully insufficient.

The EU, where many countries are facing economic headwinds and soaring debt, has led opposition to demands for more money.

"We're not looking at any increases in adaptation finance," Irish climate minister Darragh O'Brien said.

The EU is also fighting any attempt to have language against its tax on imports of carbon-intensive goods such as steel, aluminum, cement and fertilizers.

China has called for the removal of what it calls "trade barriers."

"There should be at least a mention (of trade measures), because they become a disabler instead of an enabler. So, I think they will be mentioned in some way," Mexican environment minister Alicia Barcena told AFP.

A new text is expected to be published on Wednesday.

COP30 is due to end on Friday, but climate summits regularly run into overtime.

In a sign that Brazil wants to stay on schedule, delegates sleeping on two cruise ships serving as floating hotels have been told to vacate their cabins on Saturday morning.
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In recent years, west Londons Design Museum has enjoyed great success in plumbing the work of cinematic auteurs. In 2019, Stanley Kubrick: The Exhibition  a walk through the monolithic filmmakers shining career  became the museums most attended event in its 35-year history. A show based on the oeuvre of gothic eccentric Tim Burton, launched last October, went on to break that record again. But there is probably no filmmaker alive more uniquely suited to a gallery exhibition than Wes Anderson.

Over the course of his three-decade career, the Royal Tenenbaums filmmaker has perfected a cinema of things  quaint, ornately designed objects, arranged and displayed on screen with curatorial care. Books; paintings; playbills; typewriters; outfits. Even his actors have often been described as things: articulated mannequins to be marshalled within Andersons pastel dollhouse sets. In his two stop-motion efforts, 2009s Fantastic Mr Fox and 2018s Isle of Dogs, this comparison was literalised. Detractors say Andersons films are twee and inhuman, or (that most blunt of criticisms) pretentious. Admirers  and there are fervid ones out there  see a lot more.

At a glance, Wes Anderson: The Archives, which showcases hundreds of objects from Andersons work, might seem to indulge this idea of the director as objet fetishist. Ever since his second film, Rushmore (1998), Anderson has contractually insisted on being able to preserve the props and costumes for himself, making this collection rich and thorough. There are myriad fascinating miniatures, among them the Grand Budapest Hotel from The Grand Budapest Hotel (2014), an intricate model of the Darjeeling Limited train from The Darjeeling Limited (2007), and the Fantastic Mr Fox puppet from Fantastic Mr Fox.

You see his sensibility evolve and intensify with swelling budgets: while early films such as Rushmore and The Royal Tenenbaums feature more traditional movie props  costumes, behind-the-scenes photographs, journals and production ephemera  his later work explodes with ambition and idiosyncrasy. The section for TheFrench Dispatch (2021) includes 10 huge abstract paintings, weighing 100kg each (painted in the film by Benicio del Toros character, and in real life by German-Kiwi artist Sandro Kopp). The section for Asteroid City (2023)features a long run of full-size faux-period vending machines, offering everything from martinis to firearms ammunition. Only The Phoenician Scheme (2025) feels short-changed  presumably for logistical reasons, with it having only come out this year. (The sprawling picaresque film gets just an alcove with a few cabinets of trinkets.)

Focus is kept squarely on Andersons work: there is no section devoted to his backstory or his childhood growing up in Houston, Texas, the son of an ad man and a real estate agent. We begin instead with Bottle Rocket, his 1996 debut and first of many collaborations with brothers Owen and Luke Wilson. This portion nonetheless contains some of the more intriguing insights into Andersons often obscure inner life. There are his personal notebooks, written in preparation for every film, each bearing fastidiously neat, small handwriting. There is a printed budget for his first film, with a (less neatly) handwritten message to his father. (This is where your $2,000 went, he begins.)

And yet it would be too simple to write off this exhibition  and, by extension, Andersons films  as simply a cabinet of artisan confections. There is too often a presumption that his obsession with style masks a lack of substance: for the 56-year-old Texan filmmaker, though, style and substance are inextricable. As consistent as his visual aesthetic is his emotional one  nearly all his films comprise dryly comic character studies of damaged, emotionally dysfunctional men. The worlds they inhabit may seem to be neatly choreographed, symmetrical and colour-coordinated, but his characters contradict this artifice. Life, as they say, finds a way. And this may well be the unifying irony of Andersons films.

Wes Anderson poses with a miniature of the Grand Budapest Hotel from his 2014 film ( Matt Alexander )

Of course, being an assemblage of collected things, Wes Anderson: The Archives does not feature this essential ingredient  the human element. It does, however, try to approximate it via video screens playing excerpts from the films in question, as well as some behind-the-scenes footage. (One particularly endearing video shows Anderson personally demonstrating character movement for animators on Fantastic Mr Fox.)

Ironically, looking at these actor-less costumes and inert puppets, you cant help but feel a renewed appreciation for the movement in Andersons films, for the oddness and personality that only humans can bring. Anderson is more than his aesthetic, more even than his impeccable craft  though as this exhibition shows, that craft is a marvel in itself.

Wes Anderson: The Archives is at the Design Museum until 26 July; tickets here
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A portrait by Austrian painter Gustav Klimt has sold for 179.7m, making it the most valuable art ever sold at Sothebys and the second most expensive work of art in auction history.

Klimts Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer, a six-foot oil painting made between 1914-1916, depicts 20-year-old Elisabeth Lederer, daughter of prominent Viennese art patrons August and Serena Lederer, dressed in a Chinese-style dragon robe in a shimmering decorative setting.

The portrait came from the collection of Estee Lauder heir Leonard A Lauder, who acquired it in 1985 and displayed it for decades in his Fifth Avenue apartment. The work had an auction estimate of around $150m (114.14m), but ended up fetching $236.4m.

It was the centrepiece of Sothebys inaugural sale in its newly acquired Manhattan headquarters at the Breuer Building, formerly home to the Whitney Museum of American Art.

Only two full-length Klimt portraits remain in private hands, and the auctioneer, Oliver Barker, described the canvas as one of the last opportunities to acquire a portrait of this significance by the artist.

Shes looking directly at you, shes not passive, Emily Braun, curator of the Leonard A Lauder Collection, told The New York Times.

open image in gallery Klimts Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer depicts the 20-year-old daughter of prominent Viennese art patrons August and Serena Lederer ( Sotheby's )

Six people launched a bidding war that lasted nearly 20 minutes, and ended when a telephone bidder represented by Julian Dawes, Sothebys vice-chair and head of impressionist and modern art, secured the work.

ArtNews reported that the hammer fell at $205m before fees.

Tonight, we made history at the Breuer, Helena Newman, Sothebys worldwide chair of impressionist and modern art and chair of its European operations, said in a statement.

To see Gustav Klimts exquisite portrait of Elisabeth Lederer set a new auction record for the artist is thrilling in itself; to see it become the most valuable work ever sold at Sothebys is nothing short of sensational. Klimt is one of those rare artists whose magic is as powerful as it is universal.

The painting carries considerable historical weight. During the Second World War, the Lederer familys collection was seized by the Nazis, and many of their Klimt paintings were later destroyed in a fire at Immendorf Castle in Austria.

Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer, however, was stored separately and escaped the blaze.

Elisabeth herself relied on her association with Klimt to protect her during the Nazi occupation, claiming she was his illegitimate daughter and therefore not Jewish; her mother also signed an affidavit to that effect. With some help from her former brother-in-law, who was a high-ranking Nazi official, Elisabeth managed to secure a document stating that she descended from Klimt, which enabled her to reside safely in Vienna until her death in October 1944.

Returned to Elisabeths brother Erich in 1948, the portrait was sold in 1983 to the art dealer Serge Sabarsky and acquired two years later by Lauder.

People were terrified someone might back a chair into it, but it was never going to happen, Ms Braun said.

open image in gallery The portrait came from the collection of Estee Lauder heir Leonard A Lauder, who acquired it in 1985 ( AFP/Getty )

She also told NBC News that the paintings story had a multilayered meaning for him, since Lauders wife, Evelyn, had fled Vienna as a child because she was Jewish.

It was one of three Klimt oils consigned from Lauders collection for the sale; two landscapes sold for $86m and $70.7m.

The Klimt portrait accounted for almost 45 per cent of the $527.5m fetched that evening from the Lauder collection. It also surpassed Klimts previous auction high, his 1917-18 portrait Lady with a Fan, which sold in 2023 for 85.3m.

The only higher public sale remains Salvator Mundi by Leonardo da Vinci, which sold in 2017 for $450.3m at Christies.

The auction also featured several Matisse sculptures and two Agnes Martin paintings, which sold for $14.6m and $7.3m. Sothebys said around 25,000 visitors viewed the works during the pre-sale exhibition, with queues forming around the block.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrives at the Lusaka International Airport and is welcomed by Zambian Vice President Mutale Nalumango and the Chinese ambassador to Zambia Han Jing, in Lusaka, Zambia, Nov. 19, 2025. At the invitation of the Zambian government, Li arrived here on Wednesday to pay an official visit to Zambia. (Xinhua/Huang Jingwen)

LUSAKA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Premier Li Qiang arrived in Zambia's capital of Lusaka on Wednesday for an official visit to the African country.

Li said that Zambia is the first country in Southern Africa to establish diplomatic ties with China, and the two countries share a profound tradition of friendship.

Over the years, despite changes in the international landscape, China and Zambia have consistently respected, trusted and supported each other, jointly forging the spirit of China-Africa friendship and cooperation, including the Tanzania-Zambia Railway spirit, he said.

Li noted that in recent years, under the strategic guidance of Chinese President Xi Jinping and Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema, the two countries have steadily deepened their political mutual trust and achieved fruitful results in various sectors, setting a model of solidarity and collaboration among developing nations.

During the Beijing Summit of the Forum on China-Africa Cooperation (FOCAC) in September last year, the two heads of state held a meeting, which pointed the direction for further deepening the comprehensive strategic cooperative partnership between China and Zambia, said Li.

Li said that China stands ready to work with Zambia to carry forward the traditional friendship, deepen mutually beneficial cooperation, promote mutual understanding and affinity between the two peoples, and advance together on the path of modernization.

Faced with a world of intertwined changes and chaos, China is willing to enhance multilateral communication and coordination with Zambia, stand united with the broad ranks of Global South countries, safeguard the international order as well as fairness and justice, and promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

Li's visit followed his attendance at the 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) in Moscow, Russia. 
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Netflixs latest holiday romcom starring Minka Kelly is being slated by critics, who have deemed it charmless and forgettable.

Champagne Problems, streaming now, stars Kelly, 45, as an American executive sent to Paris to try and close a deal with a renowned champagne brand before Christmas. However, her plans are upended when she falls into a whirlwind romance with a Parisian man (Tom Wozniczka), whom she later discovers is the founders son.

In a paltry two-star review of the movie, The Guardians Adrian Horton felt that it lacks fizz, adding that the mostly charmless romance is part of the streamers continual annual onslaught of forgettable festive films.

[It] was so disposable I forgot I had even reviewed it, it goes down like cheap bubbly, appropriately flat and situational, Horton wrote.

Of Kellys performance, she found it to be more maternal presence than a romantic lead, while Wozniczka, she argued, provides exactly the dollop of French charm with mild self-torture and nothing more. The gimmicks are unfunny, the romance inoffensive, the happy-ever-after straightforward, Horton said.

open image in gallery Minka Kelly leads Netflix's new holiday romcom 'Champagne Problems' opposite Tom Wozniczka ( Mika Cotellon/Netflix )

The Wall Street Journals John Anderson felt similarly, insisting that the film is as sticky as a half-finished candy cane.

Champagne Problems walks a fine line between a Hallmark-movie aesthetic and a tongue-and-cheek treatment of its own alleged genre, Anderson said. All the coincidences and conflicts are conjured up, per the necessities of a quick-cooking holiday love affair.

While he felt Kelly is the freshest thing about Champagne Problems, he criticized her chemistry with Wozniczka, saying, they dont generate a great deal of natural heat.

Andrew Morgan of the news site Whats on Netflix mostly agreed that Kelly and Wozniczka are not a classic romantic pair in a sense as they dont ooze sensuality.

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But what they do have is a warmth & believable emotional connection that makes the audience lean in, he noted.

A recurring theme among critics is that the film lacks originality. The conflict is a tale as old as time and has no depth that differentiates it from others, wrote Archi Sengupta for Leisure Byte.

open image in gallery Kelly and Wozniczkas performances as Sydney and Henri have left critics unimpressed ( Mika Cotellon/Netflix )

The film is repetitive and a bit boring, because you already know whats going to happen. Moreover, I didnt believe the romance at all as it felt very scripted and overdone, she added. It takes away from the magic of falling in love during the most romantic time of the year, which is such a bummer of epic proportions.

Singling out the movies ending, Blu-ray.coms Brian Orndorf opined that it dragged to a close with the same old moves seen in hundreds, if not thousands of these pictures.

[Director Mark Steven Johnson] goes for plasticized fantasy instead of trusting the moderate intimacy and light humor thats worked for the first two acts of the movie, he said, giving it a rating of six out of ten stars.

Despite the abysmally low reviews, viewers appear eager to watch the holiday romcom. Oh I am seated for this one. Topping the hearts for sure, one wrote on X, with a second admitting, Im such a sucker for christmas romcoms.

Another commented that they were currently watching it, and enjoying it.

Champagne Problems is available to stream on Netflix.
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If your complaint about last years Wicked was that it was so oddly lit that you could barely see what was going on, then fear not  in Wicked: For Good, you wont mind so much, because theres so little to look at. Here youll find no gallivanting between the whimsical towers of Shiz University, no rambunctious dance breaks, no Ariana Grande swinging from a chandelier.

The back half of Stephen Schwartz and Winnie Holzmans musical, adapted from the 1995 novel by Gregory Maguire and itself a retelling of The Wizard of Oz that questions the wickedness of the Witch of the West, was always a bit of a slog. And Jon M Chus direction, even with all that budget and talent at hand, fails to find a satisfactory fix.

Elphaba (Cynthia Erivo), the witch in question, has already declared herself a rebel with a cause, via the last films climactic Defying Gravity. Part two, then, must deal with the drier, more bureaucratic business of getting us from that revelation to her predestined meeting with a bucket of water thrown by a homesick Kansas native.

open image in gallery Best frenemies: Ariana Grande and Cynthia Erivo in Wicked: For Good ( Universal Pictures )

And so were reintroduced to her, out in Oz, rallying the marginalised animals of the land to stay and fight for whats rightly theirs, all while her former frenemy-turned-bestie Glinda (Grande) stays behind with the Wizard (Jeff Goldblum) and his right-hand woman Madame Morrible (Michelle Yeoh), the guilt of her own inaction brewing like a fish in a percolator. She knows, deep down, shes upholding a corrupt system, but the perks (one of them being 2025s Sexiest Man Alive, Jonathan Bailey, as her fiance Fiyero) are hard to resist.

But these are all essentially foregone conclusions by the end of the first film. For Good has little sense of movement, literally or emotionally  no profound revelations, no wonder or spectacle. All thats to be done now is for each character to process, via standardised ballad, what theyve learned, as they wander aimlessly around dimly lit woods or millennial-pink bedrooms, in the same cycle of mid-shots and close-ups.

Schwartzs new song for Elphaba, No Place Like Home, is certainly effective in the blunt force of its sincerity  Erivo handles its emotions beautifully (and, as always, hits every note with ease), embracing wholeheartedly what it means for a queer Black woman to sing the words how do I love this place thats never loved me?. Grande, however, feels less served by The Girl in the Bubble. And, while shes a perfect Glinda in her comedic moments, thats a little less true of the character when shes hit rock bottom.

open image in gallery Erivo hits all the right notes as Elphaba in a sequel that feels unfocused ( Universal Pictures )

Wickeds ability to hold up as an effective allegory for the fight for change from within and outside of the system (after all, theres always been a bit of Professor X/Magneto dichotomy between Glinda and Elphaba), continually falters when its hit with the excessive need to explain how things came to be. The Scarecrow, the Tin Man, the Cowardly Lion, Glindas bubble, the yellow brick road, Dorothys shoes  Wicked insists that every element of The Wizard of Oz has to be explained and demystified.

Theres no room for magic there, nor in Chus direction, which takes all of the boiling bitterness of Elphabas No Good Deed, her rage against her own fate, and sets it against a flat background of anonymous, sludge-hued castle walls and murky skies. I guess we should at least be thankful weve been spared the monstrosity of a CGI-rendered Judy Garland as Dorothy (that said, there is some extremely disconcerting use of de-ageing tech elsewhere). But, as those witches might say, one good deed hardly changes things for the better.

Dir: Jon M Chu. Starring: Cynthia Erivo, Ariana Grande, Jonathan Bailey, Ethan Slater, Bowen Yang, Marissa Bode, Michelle Yeoh, Jeff Goldblum. Cert PG, 137 mins

Wicked: For Good is in cinemas from 21 November
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Manchester-born designer Matthew Williamson has expressed immense pride in crafting the trophy for the 2026 Brit Awards, an event set to make history by being held in his home city.

Williamsons design draws deeply from Manchesters heritage, featuring an amber figure atop a globe, a nod to the citys iconic worker bee mascot and symbolising the global reach of British music.

Speaking to the PA news agency about the honour, which will see his creation presented at the Co-Op Live venue on February 28, Williamson shared his profound connection to the project.

"It means a huge amount, personally, it means a lot, professionally, it means a lot," he stated. "I think overall, Im just really honoured to be in this position, I feel its quite a weighty project, and Im fully aware of the designers that have gone before me, these icons of design, so Im carrying quite a sort of heavy torch, so to speak, but very proud."

open image in gallery The New 2026 Brit Award trophy designed by Matthew Williamson ( Getty Images )

The fashion, home, and lifestyle designer emphasised the personal significance of the location. "Personally, Im from Manchester, I love everything about the city, so it has an extra resonance, because its going to be here, its a real milestone moment."

Williamson, 54, recalled watching the awards ceremony with his family during his childhood. "I remember watching it and feeling that I probably shouldnt be watching it, so I was pretty young," he reminisced.

"I remember it being a little bit spicy at times, and my parents were quite liberal parents, but it was a little past the watershed and all of that, so I dont know, (I was watching it) early probably (as a) teenager, slightly earlier."

He added: "That was many moons ago, but I still watch it now, and Im going to be watching it with my daughter next year, so it feels like a full circle moment in so many ways."

Known for his distinctive runway designs, one of which featured in Princes 2007 music video for Chelsea Rodgers, Williamson was careful to respect the established aesthetic of the Brit Award.

open image in gallery The amber trophy is a nod to Manchesters iconic worker bee mascot ( Getty Images )

"There was a certain understanding that this is the trophy, we want to keep the silhouette, the structure, so they dont want us to turn it into a different form, because then it wouldnt be a Brit Award," he explained.

"I think that was central to the project, respect whats there, and be like the Oscars, you kind of want to see that mask, you dont really want to see something else."

The 2026 Brit Awards ceremony marks a significant moment as it will be the first time the event has been held outside of London. Previous designers of the coveted trophy include celebrated figures such as Dame Vivienne Westwood, Sir Peter Blake, and Dame Tracey Emin.
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The 2025 Country Music Association Awards are set to showcase a strong female presence, with Ella Langley, Megan Moroney, and Lainey Wilson each leading the nominations with six nods.

Lainey Wilson, who will also host the ceremony, faces fierce competition for the nights top honour, CMA Entertainer of the Year. She is up against Luke Combs, Cody Johnson, Chris Stapleton, and last years winner, Morgan Wallen.

New Artist of the Year nominees include Langley, Shaboozey, Zach Top, Tucker Wetmore, and Stephen Wilson Jr. Country music icon Vince Gill will receive the prestigious Willie Nelson Lifetime Achievement Award.

Performances are set from Shaboozey, Combs, Stapleton, Langley, Moroney, Top, Wetmore, Wilson, Wilson Jr., Kelsea Ballerini, Brandi Carlile, Kenny Chesney, Riley Green, Miranda Lambert, Patty Loveless, Old Dominion, The Red Clay Strays, and rapper BigXThaPlug.

The 59th annual CMA Awards will broadcast live from Nashvilles Bridgestone Arena at 8 p.m. Eastern and 7 p.m. Central on ABC, streaming on Hulu the next day.

Winners are decided by Country Music Association members, including executives, artists, and industry professionals.

Morgan Wallen won Entertainer of the Year at the 2024 CMA Awards ( Getty )

At the 2024 awards, Morgan Wallenbrushed off controversy to take home the nights biggest prize, Entertainer of the Year.

Wallen was not in attendance and was largely shut out of the awards as Chris Stapleton won four categories, including Song of the Year and Single of the Year for White Horse.

Stapleton took the stage at the Bridgestone Arena in Nashville, Tennessee, three times to perform during the ABC telecast, including a show-opening duet with Post Malone.

Im really honoured for this, thank you very much, the always subdued country traditionalist Stapleton said as he accepted the male vocalist of the year award for a record-extending eighth time.

For much of the night, it seemed the leading nominee, Wallen, up for seven, would be snubbed, until presenter Jeff Bridges gave a botched rendering of his name as Morgan Waylon when he announced Entertainer of the Year.

Four of Wallens nominations came for his hit collaboration with Malone, I Had Some Help, though the song, and the first-time nominee Malone, went winless.

Wallen was arrested in April and charged with three felony counts after allegedly throwing a chair off the roof of another six-story Broadway bar.
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Rapper Eminem has sued Australian beach brand Swim Shady, arguing the companys name is too similar to his trademarked alter ego, Slim Shady.

The Monster artist  real name Marshall B. Mathers III  filed a complaint with the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office in September, requesting it cancel the Swim Shady trademark it had granted to the company just days prior.

In the legal filing, Eminems lawyers have alleged that the brands moniker creates a false association with the rapper. American law requires the company to respond to the petition by next week.

The company was originally launched under the name Slim Shade, according to the BBC. It was later rebranded to Swim Shady and officially launched as a business in Australia in December 2024.

Months before its launch, Eminem lodged a trademark complaint in October 2024, claiming the company was infringing on his Australian trademark.

open image in gallery Eminem often goes by his trademark rap pseudonym, Slim Shady ( Getty )

The Sydney-based company, which sells beach umbrellas, bags, towels and shorts, hit back at the accusations in a statement to The Guardian, saying it would defend our valuable intellectual property.

Swim Shady is a grassroots Australian company that was born out of a desire to produce stylish and effective sun shades and other items to protect from the harsh Australian sun, it added.

Eminem originally trademarked the name Slim Shady in the U.S. in 1999, in line with the release of his album The Slim Shady LP, which included hits like Guilty Conscience and Role Model.

However, it wasnt until January 2025 that he filed a trademark for the name in Australia. Previously, he had only owned trademarks in Australia for Shady and Shady Limited.

Eminems lawyers have said that the nickname has become distinctive and famous and is publicly associated with the rappers career.

Swim Shady has since filed a non-use application to attempt to remove Eminems Shady and Shady Limited trademarks, arguing that they havent been consistently used.

open image in gallery Eminem has sued an Australian brand over its name ( Getty Images )

This isnt the only trademark battle the rapper is fighting. Hes currently involved in an ongoing trademark infringement lawsuit against The Real Housewives of Potomac stars Gizelle Bryant and Robyn Dixon over their Reasonably Shady podcast.

Meanwhile, in June, he sued Facebooks parent company, Meta, for $109 million, claiming the social media company distributed over 200 of his songs to users without permission.

The Lose Yourself rapper isnt the first American artist to take legal action against an Australian business over trademark issues. Kanye West sued Melbourne burger shop College Dropout Burgers in 2022.

However, the case was dismissed by Australias federal court the following year after the rapper and his legal team failed to take steps to progress the litigation.
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Few do suffering like Claire Danes. Watching any drama she stars in feels like meeting up with a friend who has been through a breakup they just cant get over: there comes a moment when you realise, Oh no, shes going to cry. Its going to be tectonic. Can I cope with the sheer depth of her misery?!

The brow crumples, the eyes scrunch, the lip quivers, the voice splinters. Its gut-wrenching. That impressively pliable face can register about 13 different kinds of agony. And in The Beast in Me, Netflixs new thriller about an author with a psychopathic neighbour, there is nowhere to hide, no way to prepare yourself. It happens in the opening scene, her face rearing up out of the screen, blood-spattered, eyes aghast, mouth moving, trying to take in something so horrible that we can only guess at it. Then it comes: a full-throated howl of despair that could rock you to the very core of your spleen.

Its classic Danes. After all, she trades in high nervous tension. Spot the frowns in Homeland. As CIA officer Carrie Mathison in the hit terrorism drama, she made unravelling look like an art form, her cry-face becoming both a meme and a symbol of unrelenting determination. Or think of her in Fleishman Is in Trouble, another entry in the Danes-on-the-edge canon. Playing a super-ambitious theatre agent who seemingly abandons her kids one day, leaving her ex-husband in the lurch, Danes is remarkable, her characters businesslike froideur thawing to reveal vulnerability and turmoil. Even in My So-Called Life, the Nineties teen drama with which she first made her name, Danes made teenage angst feel like tragedy.

Baz Luhrmann, who cast her as Juliet in Romeo + Juliet, declared her the Meryl Streep of her generation, while David Harewood, her co-star in Homeland, was so taken aback by her presence that he dried up mid-scene. I actually forgot my lines, he told The Guardian in 2014. She has an intensity and complete immersion in the character and Ive never really encountered that before at that level.

That intensity is certainly there in The Beast in Me. While the series itself is high-class hokum  taut, yes, but totally preposterous  Danes is compelling opposite Matthew Rhys. She plays Aggie Wiggs, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer trapped in grief. That howl, those eyes, they were registering the death of her young son, killed by a drunk driver who got away with it. Wiggs is supposed to be writing a book on the unlikely friendship between opposing Supreme Court justices Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Antonin Scalia, but instead becomes fascinated by her new neighbour, Nile Jarvis (Rhys), a notorious real estate mogul who may or may not have murdered his wife.

Critics, by and large, have fallen over themselves to praise Danes performance, with Time calling it her best since Homeland. In a five-star review, meanwhile, The Guardian wrote that she and Rhys are wonderful to watch... Awards will surely be given. Whether shell add to the collection of Globes and Emmys she has amassed over My So-Called Life, Temple Grandin and Homeland remains to be seen, but you wouldnt bet against it.

Suffering: Claire Danes in The Beast in Me ( Netflix )

For Danes, the drive has always been there. Growing up in New York with liberal, artistic parents  her father was a photographer, her mother an artist who ran a day care service for toddlers  she told The New Yorker that a huge emphasis was placed on creativity. By the age of 11, she was attending classes at the Lee Strasberg Institute, famous for propagating the method approach to acting and having Dustin Hoffman, Robert De Niro and Al Pacino among its alumni. Perhaps it was there where Danes first realised a knack for conveying raw emotion, long before her cry-face would be parodied by Anne Hathaway on Saturday Night Live. Danes thinks her cry-face has been objectified. Its not calculated; its not an aggressive gesture, she told Elle magazine. Its been isolated from the rest of my work, like its a tacked on thing. Its not.

Comments from co-stars havent helped. John Leguizamo, who played Tybalt in Romeo + Juliet, once said that Danes was devastated during filming and usually wanted to cry in every scene. We were all encouraged to reach a state of utter hysteria on and off the set, Danes replied to The Independent in 2004. The other actors were just as deeply into their characters, only they werent playing Juliet. They were playing virile, macho, aggressive people, so they were acting accordingly. Juliet does cry a lot in the movie, you know... I couldnt play a crying scene without crying, she continued. Id be an amazing actress if I could do that.

Be that as it may, theres no denying that Danes finds herself synonymous with a very specific kind of performance. The Beast in Me only reaffirms that. While Danes has spoken about being able to shake off her characters after a day of filming  Putting my jewellery back on, my wedding ring, my earrings, that helps, she told People  generally its more of a struggle for the viewer. Seeing her run the emotional gamut, anguish and pain etched across her visage, is frankly exhausting; hers is a vulnerability we can all relate to. Long may that continue.
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In his Tuesday night monologue, Jimmy Kimmel addressed the viral incident where President Donald Trump told a female journalist aboard Air Force One, Quiet, piggy.

Trump was being quizzed about his ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein by a reporter from Bloomberg when he appeared to make the insulting remark.

Trump is not a happy little meal right now, Kimmel said Tuesday. Every time he gets asked about Jeffrey Epstein, he loses his mind.

Kimmel then played the clip of the commander-in-chief leaning forward to deliver the insult while wagging his finger at the reporter.

He called her piggy, Kimmel said in disbelief. He said Quiet, piggy to a reporter and it barely made the news.

open image in gallery If the pilot on Air Force One behaved like the president, he wouldnt be allowed to fly the plane, joked Kimmel on Tuesday ( ABC )

open image in gallery Trump appeared to tell a female reporter, Quiet, piggy, on Air Force One last week ( REUTERS )

If a man spoke like that to a female coworker in a workplace harassment training video, youd go, Ah, thats over the top. Nobody would do that, Kimmel joked.

The late-night host added, If the pilot on Air Force One behaved like the president, he wouldnt be allowed to fly the plane.

The Air Force One incident occurred Friday, but did not gain much traction until Tuesday as clips of the moment circulated on social media.

Our White House journalists perform a vital public service, asking questions without fear or favor, a Bloomberg spokesperson told The Guardian. We remain focused on reporting issues of public interest fairly and accurately.

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A White House official told The Independent that the reporter behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane. The official did not explain what the behavior was.

If youre going to give it, you have to be able to take, the official added.

On Tuesday, Trump went on to rage at a female ABC News reporter for her attitude after she asked about his familys business in Saudi Arabia and the Epstein files.

Its not the question that I mind. Its your attitude, Trump told ABC News Chief White House Correspondent Mary Bruce, as members of the press gathered to cover the presidents meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office.

ABC, your crappy company, is one of the perpetrators... I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and its so wrong, Trump said.

I think the license should be taken away from ABC, because your news is so fake and its so wrong, and we have a great commissioner, chairman, who should look at that, Trump added, appearing to refer to Federal Communications Commission Chair, Brendan Carr.

Responding to Trumps threat to have Carr look into ABC, Kimmel replied, I dont know, the last time your FCC guy looked at that didnt go so great for you.
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Whitney Leavitt has candidly admitted why she returned to film The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

After choosing to walk away during contract negotiations ahead of the Hulu shows third season, the villain of the reality show shockingly returned, claiming that her move to a different town in Utah created distance between her and the group. She also maintained that she never left MomTok, the group of Mormon moms at the center of the reality show.

However, one clip of an episode of season three showed Leavitt speaking to a group of friends, where she revealed the real reason she chose to come back. I just found out if I came back to film, I can audition for Dancing with the Stars, she told them.

She further elaborated in a confessional, saying, After last season, I did decide to step away from the show, but I never quit MomTok. I was always in MomTok, still a part of that group. I just really needed a break, but then I heard from my team Dancing with the Stars was going to cast someone from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, and thats a motivator. I'll come back for that.

The reality shows producers also had Leavitt address the rumors that she had specific demands to return to SLOMW, including tickets to the Oscars  which she denied  and a role on a scripted series, which she confirmed having asked for.

open image in gallery I heard from my team Dancing with the Stars was going to cast someone from The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives , and thats a motivator. I'll come back for that, Leavitt said ( Getty Images )

open image in gallery Leavitt is currently partnered with Mark Ballas on DWTS ( Disney )

Following the groups interviews with long-time DWTS casting director and co-executive producer, Deena Katz, it was announced that Jen Affleck and Leavitt would be joining Season 34 of the ABC competition show.

A few weeks before the DWTS premiere, it was announced on Good Morning America that Affleck would be partnered with a new-to-the-show professional dancer, Jan Ravnik, who is best known for being one of the dancers on Taylor Swifts Eras Tour, while Leavitt was partnered with three-time Mirrorball winner Mark Ballas, who returned to the show after taking the previous two seasons off.

Throughout her time on the show, Leavitt and Ballas have remained near the top  if not claiming the top spot  on the judges leaderboard, though many have criticized Leavitts previous dance experience. She received a degree in dance from Brigham Young University and previously competed against Witney Carson, a DWTS pro who attended a rival dance studio at the time.

Other fans alleged there was constant favoritism from the judges because of how much they loved Ballas and wanted to see him win again.

The pair is still in the competition and will be dancing to two Prince songs during Tuesdays semifinals.

New episodes of DWTS air Tuesdays at 8 p.m. ET on ABC and Disney+. They are available to stream the next day on Hulu. Season three of SLOMW is now available to stream on Disney+ and Hulu.
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Jeff Bezos has given his wife the kind of gift only a billionaire can: a slice of the 2026 Met Gala.

The Metropolitan Museum of Art announced Sunday that next years fashion extravaganza will be made possible by the worlds third-richest man and his wife, Lauren Sanchez Bezos, who were named as lead sponsors, alongside secondary donors, Conde Nast and Saint Laurent. In their new role, the couple will preside over everything from invites to logistics and overall presentation of the event. Im imagining couture gowns delivered in Amazon cardboard boxes, the red carpet streamed on Prime Video, and celebrities catapulted into New York on Bezoss Blue Origin rocketship (okay, the last one might be slightly over-ambitious).

Granted: this is likely Sanchezs dream rather than that of Bezos. The former journalist is thought to have been instrumental in rebranding her husband from Amazon tech geek to a dinner-jacket-clad member of the global elite. Buying their way into the biggest A-list event in the social calendar seems to be part of a plan for cultural domination.

Expect a very different Met Gala in May. The first change is that their appointment breaks the precedent of having a legacy fashion house as the primary sponsor, which has been crucial to the fabric of the event. As last years main sponsor, Louis Vuitton dominated the red carpet by dressing stars including Sabrina Carpenter, Pharrell Williams and Zendaya. The sponsor is also crucial in communicating the direction of the event, so an affiliation with the billionaire Amazon CEO feels left-field, to put it lightly (especially because the online retailer predominantly sells cheap, fast fashion).

Prepare yourself for liberal winks at the delivery empire, too. This isnt Bezos's first philanthropy rodeo. At a gala for the Council of Fashion Designers of America earlier this year  where the Bezos Earth Fund had partnered on a $6.25 million initiative  one of its hosts, Teyana Taylor, gave a shout-out to Amazons two-day shipping. When it comes to parcels and delivery times, subtlety is never on the menu.

open image in gallery Amazon founder Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sanchez Bezos are the main sponsors for 2026s Met Gala ( Getty )

open image in gallery Vogues Anna Wintour has been at the helm of the Met Gala since 1995 ( Getty )

As for the guest list, the couple are known to have a big address book. Their excessive star-studded Venice wedding in June  costing a humble sum between $400 million and $500 million  saw Bill Gates, Oprah Winfrey, Leonardo DiCaprio, Ivanka Trump and the Kardashians all in attendance. Could this mean politically aligned business magnates filling out the seats? After all, the couple supported President Donald Trump at his January inauguration; Republican-voting actor Sydney Sweeney also attended the wedding. Why not invite the entire Blue Origin Crew (Katy Perry and co)?

We could perhaps have seen this coming. Just days after the Venice wedding, Sanchez starred on a digital cover of US Vogue in her Dolce & Gabbana couture wedding gown with the cover line: Here comes the bride!. Whats more, Sanchez has been pictured at events with Anna Wintour, global editorial director of Vogue and chief content officer of Conde Nast, who has chaired the Met Gala since 1995.

The couples Met Gala takeover matters to the arts  but probably not for the philanthropic reasons it's intended. This is an arts institution that  albeit with its Hollywood sheen  has deep roots. Founded in 1948 but renowned fashion publicist Lambert, the event began as a fundraiser for the Mets Costume Institute, serving as an opening celebration for its annual exhibit. The guest list was largely composed of New Yorks social elite, museum trustees and fashion insiders, but there was little celebrity presence.

Under Wintours design since the Nineties, the gala has become a red carpet machine thats more highly anticipated than the Oscars. This is an event that celebrates celebrity on the surface, but also platforms the creatives, makers, designers, stylists and makeup artists behind the starring outfits. Each year, designers  emerging and established  offer their unique interpretation of the new theme and create boundary-pushing, often career-defining, designs that become part of fashion history. In past years, looks have ranged from iconic to outlandish: think of Zendayas tulle John Galliano for Maison Margiela for the 2024 theme of Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion or Jared Letos 2023 cat costume in homage to the late Karl Lagerfeld and his feline, Choupette.

In the modern age of pop culture, the Met Gala has only become more relevant. While only a select few are allowed access, theres an entirely different party happening on social media  where legions of fans become armchair fashion critics for one night only, interrogating each look and its value. And then youve got influencers like Emma Chamberlain and Amelia Dimoldenberg conducting Instagram-worthy quickfire interviews. Oftentimes, you will come away from the Met Gala having learnt something about fashion history, too  last years theme saw the history of Black Dandyism being shared en masse.

open image in gallery Zendaya in John Galliano for Maison Margiela for the 2024 theme of Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion ( AFP/Getty )

open image in gallery The path to cultural domination: Lauren Sanchez Bezos and husband Jeff will preside over the Met Gala guest list ( AFP/Getty )

Even if the event doesnt turn out to be a parade of Amazon logos, the meaning of the Bezos sponsorship runs deeper. Sure, this is a fundraising event that has always required corporate funding in the background  the kind of money that only tech companies seem to have these days  but the Bezos takeover underscores a darker shift in culture, where creative platforms, institutions and even media are increasingly controlled by a few power players. Just earlier this year, Bezoss Amazon MGM Studios secured full creative control of the James Bond franchise, sparking concerns about the future of the franchise.

His cultural domination wont stop here. It has been suggested that Bezos could one day buy Vogues publisher Conde Nast and give his wife some involvement at its prestigious title, though this is merely speculation. Still, its not entirely unfathomable, given the financial challenges facing the media industry right now. Whatever the intentions of Bezos and his wife, Id wager that they're only just beginning.
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Billy Bob Thornton has said his marriage to Angelina Jolie ended due to differences in their lifestyles.

The actor, 70, and Jolie, 50, were married from 2000 to 2003. Jolie was his fifth wife, and Thornton was her second husband after Johnny Lee Miller.

That was one of the greatest times of my life, Thornton told Rolling Stone. She and I are still very, very close friends. And that was the one that ended up being a really civilised breakup.

He continued: We simply split up because our lifestyles were so different.

During the years they were together, the Hollywood couple were featured in magazines and walked red carpets  resulting in one famous interview at the premiere of Gone in 60 Seconds in 2000, in which the pair appeared infatuated with one another.

Thornton said the public fascination surrounding their relationship was pretty weird at the time.

When we met, I was the more famous one, he has now said. And then when we got together, for some reason, the people and the media are very interested in celebrity couples, that seems to be a very popular thing.

So it was weird. We couldnt go anywhere. I mean, we did, and then of course we had times when we would say things that became sound bites or whatever.

open image in gallery Angelina Joie and Billy Bob Thornton in 2000 ( Getty )

At the time of their relationship, it was reported that the couple wore vials of each others blood around their necks.

"We each had a little locket, literally with a drop of blood in them," the Monsters Ball star explained. "That's a romantic little idea, and that's all that was. But by the time it's over, we're vampires. We live in a dungeon, we drink each other's blood, and this kind of stuff."

The actors met while filming the 1999 film Pushing Tin, eloping a year later in Las Vegas  shortly after Thornton had ended his engagement to Laura Dern.

open image in gallery Angelina Jolie and Billy Bob Thornton in 2002 ( Getty Images )

Three months before they separated, the two announced they had planned to adopt a child from Cambodia. Ultimately Jolie proceeded with the process as a single parent, officially adopting her first son Maddox as a single parent.

Thornton is now married to his sixth wife, Connie Angland, whom he has been with for 20 years. They share a 21-year-old daughter named Bella. He is also the father of three other children.

I found the right spot to be, he told Rolling Stone about his current marriage. The other times I got married were just like, you had a little too much to drink one night and somebody said, We should get married. You go, Yeah, OK. I always tell people, at least I was trying.

Jolie, meanwhile, finalised her divorce from Brad Pitt in December 2024 following the eight-year legal battle that ensued after she filed for divorce in 2016.

The former couple share six children: Maddox, 23, Pax, 21, Zahara, 20, Shiloh, 19, and twins Vivienne and Knox, 16.
TEHRAN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Iran's Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei on Wednesday rejected a recent claim by the U.S. president that Tehran and Washington were holding nuclear talks.

He made the remarks in an address to reporters in Tehran, one day after U.S. President Donald Trump said the United States was talking to Iran and that Tehran wanted "very badly" to make a deal.

In a Tuesday meeting with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House, Trump said, "We're talking to them, and we start a process. But it would be a nice thing to have a deal with Iran."

Baghaei stressed, "No negotiation process currently exists between Iran and the United States."

He pointed to the U.S. track record of failing to honor its promises and putting forward "excessive demands," reiterating that there was no logical justification for holding talks with a side that did not see negotiation as a two-way process, took pride in its "wrongful action of military aggression" against Iran and the Iranian people.

Regarding a message from Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian to the Saudi crown prince prior to his U.S. visit, Baghaei said it was purely bilateral. The message expressed Iran's gratitude for the services provided to Iranian pilgrims during last year's Hajj and emphasized the need for continued coordination for this year's pilgrimage.

Iran and the United States previously held five rounds of indirect, Omani-mediated talks on Tehran's nuclear program and U.S. sanctions between April and June. A sixth round, scheduled for June 15, was canceled following Israeli airstrikes on multiple Iranian nuclear and military sites, which killed senior commanders, nuclear scientists, and civilians. On June 22, U.S. forces joined the attack by bombing three Iranian nuclear facilities at Natanz, Fordow, and Isfahan. 
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Claire Danes has said she felt a funny shame when she got pregnant at 44 years old.

The star of Netflixs recent hit series The Beast In Me opened up about her unplanned blessing during an appearance on the SmartLess podcast released on Monday (19 November).

She told hosts Jason Bateman, Sean Hayes, and Will Arnett that she and her husband Hugh Dancy had moved into their current home because of their oopsy daisy third baby in 2023.

I was so old when that happened. I was 44, Danes said, adding that she didnt think it was possible for her to get pregnant at that age.

The 46-year-old continued: I did not foresee this at all. And it was weird. Suddenly, I felt like a funny shame. Like I was naughty. Like I had been caught fornicating past the point I was meant to.

No, it was weird, and it was like I found an edge that I hadnt been quite conscious of  like I was going outside of the parameters a little bit. That was wild.

Danes went on to confirm that their third child is a girl, to which Bateman joked that she must have been relieved given that she already has two sons, born in 2012 and 2018.

I got really, really lucky, the Romeo & Juliet actor said. I mean, my OB-GYN was like, You know you're having another boy. But no!

Claire Danes is married to English actor Hugh Dancy ( Getty Images )

She said she would have been delighted to have another son, but is even more delighted to have a girl in the family. Shes pretty cool, Danes said of her infant daughter, adding that she loves a tutu.

Danes and Dancy met in 2006 when filming Evening. They revealed their engagement in February 2009, and got married in a quiet ceremony in France later that year.

The Homeland actor is earning rave reviews for her performance in Netflixs newly released thriller The Beast In Me.

Danes stars as Aggie Wiggs, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer whose world is dangerously rocked by her new neighbour Nile Jarvis (Matthew Rhys), a famous business magnate who was suspected of killing his wife.

Also starring in the series, directed by Lila Neugebaue (Causeway) and Antonio Campos (The Devil All the Time) are Brittany Snow, Natalie Morales and Breaking Bad favourite Jonathan Banks.
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Olivia Petters deep dive into why men are stepping back from dating  and why women are fed up too  clearly struck a nerve with Independent readers, who painted a vivid picture of a modern dating scene in freefall.

Many readers said the real culprit isnt men or women, but the screens between us.

Dating apps and social media were blamed for funnelling people into echo chambers, fuelling cynicism and making it far too easy to judge, ghost or dismiss someone without ever having a real conversation.

Others argued that expectations on both sides have ballooned to impossible heights, creating a me me me culture where no one wants to compromise  yet everyone expects perfection.

Long-term couples chimed in with stories proving that relationships flourish when you accept each other as you are, and stop trying to fix people, learning to meet in the middle.

Several readers raised the issue of dishonesty online, from old photos to unresolved emotional baggage, while older commenters questioned how many people on dating sites are even serious about meeting.

And amid all this, some worried that young men now fear speaking to women at all  leaving a generation feeling lonelier than ever.

Heres what you had to say:

Put the phone down

Basically too much internet and "social" network skew expectations on both sides. The solution is not the AI-generated partner, but putting the phone down.

Nameur

Siloed in cocoons

People are far too siloed in their own cocoons, reading and hearing only what they believe in  what validates themselves. It is far too easy to gather the posse and dis on a prospective partner behind closed screens, rather than actually communicate.

I mean, when you actually communicate, you might encounter someone who doesn't agree with your way of thinking... I mean, that's harsh, right? It only gets worse when you get into the golden years  add all of the baggage and bad habits learned over a lifetime!

W3slinger

Back to the 90s

Funny how all these amazing inventions that were meant to make our lives better have done the opposite. Time to move back to the 1990s.

Ditch your socials and get back to the pub, gigs and clubs. Speak to people in real life. Get drunk and have fun. Find someone with similar interests, move in together, have babies, get divorced, start again!

Papamoomin

Algorithms loaded against us

Dating apps, of course, don't see members finding their match as a positive outcome  they are invested in us moving on and continuing to search  so maybe the algorithms are loaded against us...

Fles

Expectations are too high on both sides

Expectations are too high on both sides. At 72 and 21 years of marriage it just gets better. Both of us came out of disastrous marriages when we met in the pub on a Friday night with our own friends. As for being difficult, my wife refused my offer of marriage several times  once with me on my knee in the pub and in front of both of our mates. Added to which, when she did say yes, I managed to get a Tudor estate at short notice for the big party shed asked for. Unbeknown to me, shed bought her wedding outfit a whole year before agreeing to marry me. Talk about difficulty! Wouldnt change her for a princehood.

Mike

Me me me

None of this is new; the only difference is the way people face it and the erroneous perception that everything is available with a simple swipe. People still go to school, uni, work, clubbing, on holiday  so they can meet others in the same way we did in the past.

It was not complicated: you fell in love, you waited a bit to check that it wasn't a fad and you shacked up/married. You took the person, warts and all, and made an effort. The rewards compensated for the annoyances. All that happens with this me me me attitude is that you end up just you you you with nobody else.

Cat

Relationships are actually quite simple

Relationships are, in my experience, actually quite simple. Accept the fact that the person you are in a relationship with is someone you chose, and as such do not, under any circumstances, try to change who they are or how they behave. If you embark on a relationship with the idea that you can fix someone up, forget it. It won't work. You'll likely spend years with both of you being unhappy and it'll end horribly.

RickC

Who is serious on dating sites?

Late 70s and still feeling 60-ish, it's a lot more difficult. My last date  I was getting on really well with her  all of a sudden she chose a new puppy instead of me. Why she couldn't have had us both, she didn't bother explaining.

Perhaps that was a good thing for me in the long run, but it does make you wonder how many on the dating sites for oldies are really serious.

PeterRealistic

A sad indictment of my sex

From the viewpoint of being a single 60+ male, the article makes some good points. A sad indictment of my sex!

In respect of the dating-app merry-go-round negasphere, I look on with some sadness and not a little despair. From my own experience, and from talking to my female friends who are also in that dating-app world, there seems to be little honesty (old photos, lying about age/height and personal circumstances, etc.) from both men and women.

From my standpoint, if you can't be honest about who you are, then you're not in the right place to be in any relationship. Being dishonest on your profile is a massive red flag, in my honest opinion.

From my observation of my age cohort of men, there do seem to be rather a lot with little or no emotional growth and a propensity to carry their baggage of the past like it's some sort of trophy. Gentlemen, the past is a life lesson, not a life sentence, and carrying all that resentment and anger is like taking poison and expecting the other person (presumably your ex) to die. As the song in Frozen says, let it go!

Be genuine, learn to like/love yourself and accept that not everyone is for you. Don't indulge in endless messaging back and forth on the app  go and meet each other, as that's the real litmus test. I'd love to find that rest of my life person and certainly haven't given up hoping to find them. I accept that there will need to be some compromise on both sides and, for the right person, that's going to be so worth it.

Andy

Lonely, isolated people

My 20-year-old grandson is a very kind, intelligent soul  not a pushover, but just a good person studying engineering. He says that men his age hardly dare speak to women now because of aggressive reactions and because of so much toxic social media.

What a sad state of affairs. Whatever happened to good old-fashioned friendship, maybe leading to something more permanent? When my children were young, they had groups of friends of both sexes and healthy friendships, nothing sexual until appropriate, no pressures. So many lonely, isolated people these days. Very sad.

Noddy

Some of the comments have been edited for this article for brevity and clarity.

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No  I dont believe you! I wont believe you!

I was standing outside the pub when I had this minor breakdown at the news that Emma Stone allegedly had a whole new face, as my friend put it. As is often the case with grief, my first response was denial.

Its not true It cant be true I chuntered to myself as my friend proceeded to shove her phone under my nose, smugly flicking through pictures purporting to be before and after whatever cosmetic wizardry Stone had undergone. Much as my brain desperately wanted to reject the idea that Stone was turning into a clone, my eyes were struggling to follow suit. The Oscar-winning actor did seem to look different. Her jaw appeared tighter, cleaner. Her cheekbones higher, more prominent. Her eyes less hooded, the under-eye bags now non-existent. Even her nose looked altered  more pert and narrow than in days gone by.

It was unnerving. Stone was still recognisably herself, but every feature seemed subtly enhanced to create a shiny, elevated version  like shed put herself through a Facetune filter, but in real life. And I hated it.

It should be noted that the La La Land star has yet to address the rumours and admit to any procedures outright. That hasnt stopped the internet from speculating shes had everything from a mid-face lift and endoscopic brow lift to eyelid surgery known as an upper blepharoplasty, which has become the procedure du jour. But regardless of the what and how of it all, I still feel disproportionately disappointed that shes just not looking quite like, well, her any more.

Yes, Im aware that its a bit odd to take a strangers possible decision to indulge in surgery, tweakments or whatever else as a personal affront. But Stone has always been my celebrity friend-crush, you see  the woman Im delusionally yet unshakably convinced I would be mates with if our paths ever crossed in real life. Shes always represented the ultimate cool girl: super talented, with two Academy Awards already under her belt; silly and funny, the kind of whip-smart woman with enough rizz to never take herself too seriously; attractive but in an offbeat, distinctive way. The kind of woman Id assumed would be far too confident and self-assured to fall prey to the pressures of an industry that all too often prizes identikit hotness over individuality.

Shes not the only cool girl to potentially bend to the whims of a new aesthetic either. Jennifer Lawrence, another woman whose off-the-cuff humour and undeniable acting chops have made me look up to her forever, said in a recent New Yorker interview that she has a boob job booked in and gets regular Botox. When asked if shed had the new style of miracle facelift that everyone seems to be getting, she responded: No  but, believe me, Im gonna!

open image in gallery Lily Allen had a consultation for a facelift but was too busy to go through with the procedure ( AFP via Getty Images )

Emily Blunts taut face has also fuelled a huge amount of speculation online; Lily Allen has openly enquired about getting a facelift, saying she only declined because she was too busy for the required post-op recovery time.

While Ive long accepted that influencers would tinker with their faces, image being the cornerstone of engagement online, for some reason all this hits different. Cool girls, you see, are supposed to be too cool to care. But if these women, no matter how grounded and accomplished they might appear, arent immune well, what hope is there for the rest of us?

Ill admit, the fact that 37-year-old Stone is a full year younger than me also stings. She remains, particularly by todays standards  which see better nutrition and exercise translate into 40 really and truly being the new 30  a young woman. Time was, the only ones youd see paying exorbitant amounts to look different were older people with money. This, at least, made sense: those in later life wanting to erase the ravages of time to stay relevant.

This tradition is still alive and well, of course, with the huge advancements in cosmetic techniques resulting in the likes of 62-year-old Demi Moore and 70-year-old Kris Jenner looking like theyre genuinely Benjamin Button-ing their way backwards through life. (The matriarch of the Kardashian clan has, at least, been incredibly transparent about her new face, crediting it to a deep plane facelift that cost a cool $100,000.) It brings to mind the faintly horrifying scenes in the cult 1985 Terry Gilliam film Brazil, set in a dystopian future in which the main characters mother keeps having a series of gruesome-looking surgical procedures until she finally emerges looking more like her sons love interest than his parent.

open image in gallery Kris Jenner, 70, stunned the world with her most recent facelift ( Instagram/KrisJenner )

But these days youth is no barrier to enhancement. Take the fact that the number of people in their twenties getting Botox injections in the US has increased by 28 per cent since 2010, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. This has been sold to youngsters with naturally baby-smooth foreheads as preventative  the idea being, I guess, that if your face is too frozen with poison to physically emote, wrinkles have no chance of forming in the first place.

This non-invasive, tweakment side of the business has become ever more normalised for young people. In the latest series of Americas Sweethearts, a reality show about the Dallas Cowboys cheerleaders, the girls (pretty much all in their late teens and early twenties) were casually offered discounts for Botox and fillers in one episode. Its all presented as being as commonplace as getting a haircut or a manicure.

But this younger demographic is also increasingly going under the knife. One woman called Emily, aged just 28, told the BBC last month about her decision to get six surgeries rolled into one  among them a mid-face lift, lip lift and nose job  in order to achieve the desired snatched look.

open image in gallery Lindsay Lohan pictured at the 'Freakier Friday' premiere in London ( Getty Images )

My discomfort goes deeper than simply age. Theres an eerie sensation that its the same kind of beauty as everyone else in 2025. Just as we saw the rise of what was dubbed Instagram face in the 2010s  which filtered down from the likes of the Kardashians and other influencers to convince the masses to aspire to a poreless face with plump lips, full cheeks and Bambi-long lashes  now a new aesthetic has entered the chat.

Certain procedures giving a specific look seem to fall in and out of fashion, the same as clothing trends do (just look at the flurry of A-listers who suddenly appeared gaunt and cheekbone-y in 2022 thanks to buccal fat removal). These days, anyone rich enough to afford elite cosmetic enhancement ends up looking like a variation on a theme: snatched and lifted, yet with a dewy softness and high brows unencumbered by hooded eyelids or undereye bags. Everyone from Lindsay Lohan to Anne Hathaway seems to have this glow, like a homogenous parade of uncanny valley clones dipped in an identical sheen of perfection  not that many of them ever confess to this being a result of anything more than an elaborate skincare routine, of course.

Whats especially concerning is that all of this is coinciding with the dawn of AI bringing flawless, non-human faces regularly into our orbit. It feels like were heading towards the most unattainable beauty standard of all time: attempting to compete with ageless, computer-generated perfection.

open image in gallery Aimee Lou Woods distinctive look helped make her a star ( AFP/Getty )

I dont actually blame the cool girls themselves for being swept up in this futile facial arms race. Every time I look in the mirror and see the lines etched ever deeper, or bits that used to be taut and firm succumbing to the inexorable pull of gravity, an unwelcome tendril of temptation creeps into my brain. It can feel hard to resist  especially when the societal expectation to stay forever young is constantly being reinforced everywhere we turn.

My only hope is that, surrounded by a sea of AI fakery and indistinguishable bots, faces that are unequivocally, authentically human  flawed, characterful, interesting  are going to end up proving the most powerful currency of all. Im thinking of Aimee Lou Wood with her gorgeously distinctive teeth; Bella Ramsey, the epitome of pale and interesting, with their Victorian doll-like features and ivory skin. People who look unapologetically like themselves in all their blemished, idiosyncratic glory.

After all, perfect may be pretty  but its also pretty boring.
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A London-based robotics engineer has told how she uses her ADHD to power her imaginative creations.

From high-tech nail extensions that connect to webpages to clothing that integrates with weather forecasts, Eneni Bambara-Abbans work aims to inspire the next generation, demonstrating that tech can be "fun".

She also said that her ADHD has helped her come up with some of her creations, such as acrylic nails linked to a credit card.

The 32-year-old creative technologist harboured engineering ambitions from the tender age of five, ignited by the wonder of a walking doll.

This early fascination led her to meticulously dismantle household gadgets, driven by a desire to comprehend their inner workings.

Despite achieving top grades in her GCSE science subjects, Eneni faced a setback when her A-level results meant she was denied entry to a robotics engineering degree at the University of the West of England.

open image in gallery Eneni Bambara-Abban in the Robotics Lab ( PA )

Still determined to achieve her childhood goal, she wrote a heartfelt letter to the dean and was offered a place on the foundation engineering course, which she began in 2012 before progressing to the degree the following year.

She said she was the only black woman on the course, leaving her feeling isolated and almost causing her to quit, until she was inspired by women she met at an engineering awards ceremony to keep going.

From there, she began exploring wearable technology, including how circuit boards could be embedded into nails and linked to a webpage  and which could, if regulations allowed, even be used to make payments.

Since graduating, she has shared her innovations online, founded The Techover Foundation, and begun developing smart clothing that can be scanned and linked to weather forecasts, showing young people  especially women  that engineering can be creative.

Ms Bambara-Abban told PA Real Life: I always thought Why is tech so boring, so dry, why cant it be fun?.

And back then, I was very obsessed with Japanese culture and I used to get nail extensions with designs of my favourite characters.

Also, having undiagnosed ADHD back then, I was always forgetting things, so I constantly thought to myself What if I had a way to put a chip inside me for my credit card, my room key, or my uni pass, that I would never lose?.

Then I came up with the idea of combining the two  semi-permanent nail extensions with a circuit embedded into them.

open image in gallery Ms Bambara-Abban struggled at first with feeling isolated due to a lack of women in her class ( PA )

Speaking about the doll that inspired her life-long fascination with engineering, Ms Bambara-Abban said: The doll was black, which in the 90s was already quite rare and then the guy showed my family it walking around and teetering along, I was just amazed.

I can still remember it so vividly, like it was yesterday, I just was like What kind of sorcery is this? How can I be a wizard?.

After studying at university, she attended an award ceremony at the Institution of Engineering and Technology, where she became inspired by the women in technology that she met.

From there, she began exploring ways of making engineering fun and much more appealing to other young women with hopes it would inspire more people to consider pursuing similar courses to her. One of those ways was through wearable technology.

After some brainstorming and consulting with electronics experts, she realised in theory that by leveraging NFC (near-field communication), she could be able to use a chip from a credit card, attach it to a nail, and that hypothetically it might still work.

So Ms Bambara-Abban began working on circuit designs to repurpose NFC technology into wearable tech.

She explained: The first initial prototypes were done on breadboards, which are reusable construction bases for building temporary electronic circuits without soldering  it looks like a rectangular board with loads of little holes on it.

open image in gallery Ms Bambara-Abban has experimented with putting technology into acrylic nails ( PA )

She then sent the designs to an electronics factory in China to make it miniature, by printing very fine circuits onto thin flexible surfaces which would be the perfect texture to integrate into acrylic nails because of being able to curve to the nails natural shape.

It is, Ms Bambara-Abban said, quite common with engineering to outsource builds and work with a team  inventors rarely build the actual finished products alone.

It was also much cheaper to outsource  Ms Bambara-Abban said it would have cost her thousands, but the factory could manufacture the same item for 30p a piece.

The first completed nail extensions were press-ons with a range of my favourite designs that I knew young women would love  you scanned it and it would link to any webpage you wanted, you could even programme them to open up your Instagram, she added.

She also linked it to a dummy bank with a dummy bank card, allowing it hypothetically to be used for payments.

For this, she would put the flexible chip  which worked in a similar way to smart rings and smart watches  on a nail bed, and then put the nail gel on top to lock it in and ensure it was not visible to others.

However, she soon realised that although technically feasible, it would not be practical in everyday life because of strict financial regulations as well as ethical concerns.

Eneni said: I like to often recall a quote from one of the greatest franchises of all time  Spider-Man, of course  that says with great power, comes great responsibility. Even if I can do something as an engineer, it doesnt mean I should

I wont be fully connecting the circuit to (my actual bank account) or making it available publicly in the near future until the right safety and compliance protocols are met.

open image in gallery Ms Bambara-Abban shares her project on her Instagram page The Tech Over ( PA )

She graduated in 2018 from her robotics degree, and now shares her projects on her Instagram page @thetechover  which has more than 6,000 followers.

Ms Bambara-Abban also launched The Techover Foundation, aiming to inspire the next generation of Stem (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) students, particularly those from under-served backgrounds.

She has since visited schools across the world, from the UK to the Philippines and Nigeria, to show young people what engineering makes possible.

I just feel like one of the major things deterring women from getting in and staying in engineering is imposter syndrome, and feeling like theyre alone or unseen due to it still, sadly, being a male-dominated industry, She said.

But times are changing. I want to show that engineering is for everyone, regardless of gender.
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Many Brits are postponing checks for potential cancer symptoms, largely due to perceived difficulties in securing GP appointments and a tendency to downplay the severity of their health concerns, a new poll indicates.

A Cancer Research UK survey of 6,844 people, conducted by YouGov, revealed that over half (53 per cent) anticipated challenges in booking an appointment, with 47 per cent actually experiencing them.

Additionally, 44 per cent believed their symptom was not serious, while 43 per cent chose to manage it themselves.

Further barriers included difficulty seeing a specific healthcare professional (43 per cent) and a reluctance to 'make a fuss' (40 per cent).

Some 37 per cent thought their symptom were related to an existing illness or life change, while an equal proportion disliked remote appointments or had other worries.

Steve Browne, 59, from London, was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2012 aged 45.

open image in gallery Steve Browne (centre) was diagnosed with bowel cancer in 2012 after ignoring symptoms for several months ( Steve Browne )

Mr Browne, who lives with his wife and has three grown-up children, had experienced intermittent bleeding and stomach pain for several months before his diagnosis.

He initially ignored his symptoms, as he had been diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome many years previously, but eventually did go to his GP.

He said: We need a kick to get checked out, and my wife was the one who sent me to the doctor after I told her all my symptoms.

I was lucky as the cancer was caught early and it had not spread. I needed surgery but did not have to have chemotherapy or radiotherapy.

I spent some time at home recovering from the surgery, supported by my family and started a phased return to my work as a surveyor just a few months later.

If there is one message that I would like to share it would be that early diagnosis is so important. So if you notice something thats not right for you, just make sure you talk to a health professional about it.

Main symptoms of bowel cancer NHS Symptoms of bowel cancer may include: changes in your poo, such as having softer poo, diarrhoea or constipation that is not usual for you

needing to poo more or less often than usual for you

blood in your poo, which may look red or black

bleeding from your bottom

often feeling like you need to poo, even if you've just been to the toilet

tummy pain

a lump in your tummy

bloating

losing weight without trying

feeling very tired or short of breath  these are signs of anaemia, which can be caused by bowel cancer

To address these issues, Cancer Research UK has trained Tesco pharmacists to help identify possible cancer signs.

These pharmacists can now offer private consultations, providing guidance on next steps and assisting patients in booking GP appointments when required.

Michelle Mitchell, Cancer Research UKs chief executive, said: Nearly one in two of us will be diagnosed with cancer in our lifetime.

Spotting cancer early can make all the difference, so its incredibly important that people get the support they need when they notice something thats not right for them.

Thats why weve joined forces with Tesco, to make it easier for people to talk to a professional about any concerns, and ultimately, to help diagnose cancers earlier and save lives.

open image in gallery Steve Browne advised anyone concerned about their health to see a doctor as soon as possible ( Steve Browne )

Tom Lye, Tesco health and wellness category director, said: We know how many barriers there can be in day-to-day life around getting health concerns checked out.

Customers can quickly and easily see a pharmacist at one of over 350 Tesco Pharmacies.

Informed by their specialist Cancer Research UK training, pharmacists can have a confidential conversation about any worrying symptoms which could support customers in getting an earlier cancer diagnosis.

Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: The NHS is seeing and treating record numbers of people for cancer, with more people diagnosed at an earlier stage than ever before.

I know that coming forward for a potential check for cancer can be daunting but it could save your life.

So, if you notice any unusual changes in your health or have any concerns about potential cancer symptoms, please contact your GP, pharmacist or another healthcare professional as soon as possible.
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If you were to ask most people what causes cancer, the answer would probably be smoking, alcohol, the sun, hair dye or some other avoidable element.

But the most important risk factor for cancer is something else: ageing.

Thats right, the factor most associated with cancer is unavoidable  and a condition that we will all experience.

Why is this important? Older adults are the fastest-growing population in Canada and globally.

By 2068, approximately 29 per cent of Canadians will be over age 65.

With cancer being one of the most common diseases in older adults and one of the most common diseases in Canada, it means we need to think about how to provide the best cancer care for older adults.

Demographic shift

So, how are we doing so far? The answer is: not great. This may be surprising, but we also have a great opportunity to innovate and prepare for this demographic shift in cancer care.

International guidelines  including those from the American Society of Clinical Oncology  say that all older adults should have a geriatric assessment prior to making a decision about their cancer treatment. The most widely used models of geriatric assessment involve a geriatrician.

Consultation with a geriatrician for an older adult allows the oncologist and the older adult to engage in a conversation about cancer treatment, armed with information. Things like how treatment might affect their cognition, their function, their existing illnesses (which most older adults have when they are diagnosed with cancer), and the years of remaining life.

Importantly, geriatricians centre their assessment on what matters most to patients. This approach anchors any decision about cancer around the wishes of older adults and their support systems. When diagnosed with cancer, older adults undergo many tests and measures of function, but the evidence supports that these are not as accurate as geriatric assessment for identifying problems that may be below the surface.

Care in Canada

In Canada, there are currently only a handful of specialised geriatric oncology clinics. The oldest clinic is in Montreal at the Jewish General Hospital, followed closely by the Older Adult with Cancer Clinic at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre in Toronto, led by Shabbir Alibhai, one of the authors of this story. As researchers, we are in touch with clinics in Ontario and Alberta that have told us they have geriatric oncology services under development, so we hope to see new programs soon.

These clinics arent just good for patients. In fact, a study led by Shabbir Alibhai demonstrated a cost savings of approximately $7,000 per older adult seen in these clinics. If we map this onto the number of older adults diagnosed with cancer in Canada every year, this represents a huge cost savings for our public health system. Despite this overwhelming evidence, this is still not routine care.

In British Columbia, there are currently no specialised services for older adults with cancer ( Getty/iStock )

In British Columbia, there are currently no specialised services for older adults with cancer. Over the last five years, Kristen Haase  also an author of this story  has been working with colleagues to understand whether these services are needed and how they could help older adults with cancer in B.C.

This work involved conversations with more than 100 members of the cancer community. The research team spoke with older adults undergoing cancer treatment, who sometimes had to relocate for cancer treatment. Other participants included caregivers who cared for elderly family members during their cancer treatment and described numerous challenges they faced, and volunteers who ran a free transportation service  a service also mostly staffed by older adult volunteers.

The research team also heard from health-care professionals: oncologists, nurses, physiotherapists and social workers. The latter group coalesced around the need for additional supports within the cancer care system so they could do their job well, and best support older adults.

The results indicate that both those working in the system and those using the system want and need better support.

Barriers to care

So, where are we now and why dont we have these services across Canada?

Cost is obviously a barrier to any healthcare service. But with evidence that any costs will be offset by demonstrated cost savings, this is a non-starter.

Health human resources are one huge restriction. Geriatricians are in high demand and there is a low supply. However, nurse-led models have also been shown to be successful. With the expanding role of nurse practitioners across Canada, this option has huge potential to innovate care, and at a lower cost.

Another reason is good old inertia. Our clinical care model in oncology has remained mostly intact for over three decades. It is primarily a single physician-driven model. Although modern therapies for cancer have emerged at a breathtaking pace and have been introduced into clinical practice, it is much harder to change the model of care, particularly for strategies such as geriatric assessment that are harder to implement than a new drug or surgical/radiation technique.

About the authors Kristen Haase is an Associate Professor in Nursing at the University of British Columbia. Shabbir Alibhai is a Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons licence. Read the original article.

The last, and perhaps the most difficult to pin down of all potential reasons for the absence of specialised cancer services for older adults, is agism. Ageism is discrimination based on age. It is one of the most common forms of discrimination and it is deeply embedded in many of our systems. Imagine a scenario where children diagnosed with cancer couldnt access a paediatrician. We would collectively be outraged. Yet somehow, we accept this for older adults.

Due to the overwhelming number of older adults who are and will be diagnosed with cancer in the coming years, it will never be possible for all of them to receive specialised geriatric services. But there is an opportunity to innovate models of care that are targeted to those who need services the most: those who are most frail, are most likely to benefit from tailored care, and will reap the most benefit in terms of quality of life.

Stratifying these programs around those who need them the most will also have the greatest financial impact. And if personal stories of improving quality of life for older adults with cancer or international guidelines dont move decision-makers, hopefully, cost savings will.
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Two judges for the forthcoming Miss Universe pageant have resigned from the event, days ahead of its broadcast.

Composer Omar Harfouch and former Chelsea midfielder Claude Makelele have both announced their resignations within hours of each other.

Harfouch shared a series of posts Tuesday on his Instagram Stories explaining that he was confused and concerned regarding his fellow judges for the event scheduled for Friday in Bangkok, Thailand.

He claimed that he learned through social media that there was an impromptu jury that was asked to pick 30 finalists in advance out of the 136 countries that are supposed to participate.

The results of this selection are currently being kept secret, one of his posts read, adding that none of the real eight judges were part of this jury, which he claimed was composed of individuals with a significant potential conflict of interest due to some [personal] relationships with some of the Miss Universe contestants, including the person responsible for counting the votes and managing the results, which constitutes a further conflict of interest.

Harfouch then said he spoke to the Miss Universe officials regarding the lack of transparency, which led to them posting a list of names associated with the selection on their Instagram page without naming exactly what role each person played.

His posts concluded by writing that he would no longer be a judge for the competition.

After having a disrespectful conversation with [Miss Universe CEO] Raul Rocha about the lack of transparency in the Miss Universe voting process, l decided to resign from the jury and refuse to be part of this charade, Harfouch wrote. I will also not be playing the music composed for the event.

A few hours later, Makelele shared a statement on his Instagram, writing that he would not be attending the event due to unforeseen personal reasons.

It is with regret that I must announce that I wont be able to attend the Miss Universe 2025 event due to unforeseen personal reasons, he wrote.

This was a difficult decision, as I hold Miss Universe in the highest regard. The platform represents empowerment, diversity, and excellence  values I have always championed throughout my career.

I sincerely apologise to the organisation, the contestants, and everyone involved, and I hope to be able to contribute in the future under better circumstances. Thank you for your understanding and support.

Shortly after Harfouchs posts, Miss Universe officials posted a statement on its Instagram account, addressing his comments and how the judging process works.

The Miss Universe Organization firmly clarifies that no impromptu jury has been created, that no external group has been authorized to evaluate delegates or select finalists, and that all competition evaluations continue to follow the established, transparent, and supervised MUO protocols, the statement read.

Given [Mr Harfouch's] expressed confusion, his public mischaracterization of the program, and his stated desire not to participate, the Miss Universe Organization respectfully acknowledges his withdrawal from the official judging panel.

One of the competitions former judges claimed 30 finalists were picked in advance without any of the judges being involved ( AFP via Getty Images )

The competition explained that the musician was no longer allowed to display, reference, or associate himself with any Miss Universe trademarks, service marks, logos, titles, or registered properties, in any format, medium, or communication, whether digital, written, or verbal.

The Miss Universe Organization encourages the public, media outlets, and fans worldwide to rely solely on verified MUO communications and to continue supporting the delegates whose leadership, service, and dedication reflect the true values of Miss Universe, the statement concluded.

The Independent has reached out to the Miss Universe officials for further comment.
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The stepsibling of an 18-year-old cheerleader who was found dead on a Carnival Cruise ship could be facing criminal charges, according to a new court filing.

Anna Kepner was found dead on November 7, while on a family trip heading from Miami to the Caribbean.

A report from the Daily Mail claimed that her body had been wrapped in a blanket, covered in life jackets, and stuffed under a bed before later being found by a maid.

Now, a court filing made in connection with an unrelated family matter, seen by CBS News, has suggested that Kepners own step-sibling could face criminal charges.

open image in gallery The stepsibling of Anna Kepner, a girl who was allegedly found dead in her cabin on a Carnival Cruise ship, could be facing criminal charges ( Temple Christian School )

The motion includes a line from the attorney of the late 18-year-olds stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, which suggests a criminal case may be initiated against one of her children by the FBI.

"An extremely sensitive and severe circumstance has arisen wherein the Respondent/Mother will not be able to testify at the hearing at this time," the motion continues, according to CBS News.

The reason given for Hudson being unable to testify is that her testimony could be prejudicial to her or her adolescent child in this pending criminal investigation.

Details surrounding Kepners mysterious death have not yet been released, although Florida Today reported that the Miami-Dade medical examiners office has carried out an autopsy.

Kepner complained that she was feeling unwell during a family dinner and returned to her cabin early, The Daily Mail earlier reported. When the family met for breakfast the following morning, Kepner was nowhere to be seen.

open image in gallery Kepners death took place at sea, as the cruise headed to the Caribbean ( Copyright 2019 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

A desperate search for the teen ensued, with a maid finally discovering her body around 11:00 am.

The girls father told the publication that the family is still grappling with the reality of Kepners death.

I have no idea what is going on right now, he said. We are just trying to sit still and wait for answers.

According to her obituary, Kepner was a bubbly varsity cheerleader who hoped to join the military after she graduated from Temple Christian School in Titusville, Florida, next year.

She was full of life and loved by everyone in this community, her father added. She was special to so many people.

The whole family is lost for words. We miss her and love her more than anything.

Carnival Cruises said that its focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI in a statement. The FBI has been given jurisdiction in the case because Kepner died in international waters and is a U.S. citizen.

The Independent has contacted Carnival Cruises, the FBI, and the Miami-Dade medical examiners office for comment.
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Brian Walshe, the man long accused of killing and dismembering his wife, Ana Walshe, stunned a Massachusetts courtroom Tuesday by admitting that he misled investigators and disposed of his wifes remains  but continues to insist that he is not a murderer.

Walshe, 50, pleaded guilty to the two lesser charges of misleading police and improper conveyance of a human body without a plea deal. Prosecutors did not want to negotiate a deal unless it included the murder charge.

Walshes defense attorneys stressed, however, that their client is not admitting to  murder. The partial plea, which came moments before potential jurors were brought in to start his trial, sets the stage for a high-stakes trial in which Walshe, despite acknowledging some of the prosecutions most damning evidence, still wants a jury to decide whether he killed his wife.

Judge Diane Freniere asked Walshe directly whether he removed Anas remains, to which he replied: Yes, Your Honor. When asked if he had willfully misled investigators, he again responded, Yes, your honor.

open image in gallery Brian Walshe appeared in court on Tuesday as he pleaded guilty to two counts. But is still going to trial on the murder charge. ( AP )

Walshe was arrested on January 8, 2023, for misleading police, and charged with murder later that same month.

Hes been in state custody since, serving a concurrent federal sentence after pleading guilty to selling forged Andy Warhol artwork in a separate case.

With the new guilty pleas, Walshe now faces up to 10 years on the misleading charge, with a potential 20-year enhancement if convicted of murder, and up to three years in prison on the body disposal count.

The disappearance of Ana Walshe

Ana Walshe, a 39-year-old real estate executive, vanished in the early morning hours of New Years Day 2023 after a celebration at the familys Cohasset home.

Her husband claimed she left for an emergency work trip to Washington, D.C., ordering a car to take her to Logan International Airport in Boston. But her company, the first to report her missing, said there was no work emergency.

open image in gallery Ana Walshe, a 39-year-old real estate executive, vanished in the early morning hours of New Years Day 2023 after a celebration at the familys Cohasset home ( Instagram / Ana Walshe )

Prosecutors later say that Ana never got into the rideshare and there was no evidence of her being on a flight. Her cellphone, as well as her credit and debit cards, remained inactive after her disappearance.

Meanwhile, Walshe claimed that after she left the house, he visited his mother in Swampscott, went shopping at CVS and Whole Foods and spent time with his children.

But investigators would later discover surveillance footage that appeared to show Walshe at a Home Depot on January 2 where he reportedly purchased $450 worth of cleaning products.

Chilling Google searches

In the hours and days after her disappearance, Walshe conducted a series of chilling Google searches from his sons iPad, including dismemberment and best ways to dispose of a body and can you throw away body parts.

On January 1, Walshe searched those disturbing terms, beginning with: how long before a body starts to smell, according to prosecutors. That was at 4:55 a.m.

Throughout the morning, he searched: how to stop a body from decomposing? and how long for someone to be missing before you inherit?, prosecutors said.

He also looked up what does Formaldehyde do?, can an ID be made on partial remains? and dismemberment and the best ways to dispose of a body?

Then on January 2, Walshe searched Can you be charged with murder without a body?, hacksaw best tool to dismember and can you identify a body with broken teeth?

Prosecutors say they have binders full of electronic evidence that they plan to present to jurors. One report, which is 1,000 pages, was found on a MacBook Pro from Walshes home and contains new material.

A hacksaw, hatchet and a trip to Home Depot for cleaning supplies

After Ana was reported missing by her employer, police conducted a search of her Cohasset home where they found blood and a knife in the basement.

Investigators later found a hacksaw with a bone fragment, a hatchet and items stained with both Brian and Anas DNA, in trash bags they say Walshe discarded in dumpsters his mothers home.

Prosecutors later revealed that they had also recovered Anas Prada purse, rain boots and her Covid-19 vaccination card from trash cans at the same home. Her DNA was also found on a hazmat suit that investigators recovered, that Walshe had allegedly purchased on January 2.

Surveillance footage captured Walshe at Home Depot buying cleaning supplies and a knife, prosecutors claim.

open image in gallery After Ana was reported missing by her employers on January 4, police conducted a search of their Cohasset home where they found blood and a knife in the basement ( The Boston Globe )

open image in gallery A Tyvek suit, also referred to as a hazmat suit, similar to the one that prosecutors say Brian Walshe purchased on January 2 ( Home Depot )

Prosecutors allege Walshe dismembered Ana, placed her remains in dumpsters, and that the trash was later incinerated. They say he killed Ana because he discovered that she was having an affair and that she was planning to leave him.

Prosecutors allege that Walshe believed her disappearance could help him avoid prison in his federal art-fraud case, where he owed nearly $500,000 in restitution. He was also the beneficiary of her $2.7 million life-insurance policy.

Prosecutor Gregory Connor argues that Walshes false statements about Anas so-called work trip sent law enforcement on a full-blown search hundreds of miles away, costing them any chance to locate her body.

He added that Walshes disposal method ensured the remains [were] incinerated as part of waste disposal.

open image in gallery Ana and Brian Walshe were married in Serbia in 2015 and have three children ( Facebook )

A cry for help

A week before her disappearance, Ana called her mother and asked her to come visit her from Serbia, Milanka Ljubicic told Fox News Digital at the time, and that she just said, Please, Mama. Come tomorrow,

Which means that clearly, there must have been some problems, the mom said. Ljubicic said Walshe asked her on December 25, 2022, for her to travel to the U.S. the following day.

open image in gallery Ana Walshe, right, with her mother Milanka Ljubicic during a 2016 trip to Serbia ( Facebook / Ana Walshe )

And now I cant forgive myself for not just letting things fall where they may, and just go, and whatever happens to me, happens, the mother said.

Her daughter made two more phone calls at around midnight and 1 a.m. on New Years, the night police believe Walshe was murdered. Shes also reported to have called her older sister and her maid of honor, both of whom also missed her calls.

Anas harrowing final note to husband revealed

Ana Walshe reportedly left a note to her husband on a bottle of champagne wishing him love, compassion and joy in 2023.

The message was written in bright red letters on a Lanson Noble Cuvee champagne box that appears to have been left unopened after a New Years Eve party at the familys home in Cohasset, the New York Post reported.

Wow! 2022  What a year! And yet, we are still here and together! Lets make 2023 the best one yet! We are the authors of our lives  courage, love, perseverance, compassion, and joy. Love, Ana, the note reads.

A note on another side of the box reads: Gem Ana Brian 2023!

Walshe insists hes not a murderer

Walshes trial was meant to start in October, but was delayed after he suffered a jailhouse stabbing in September, leading to his attorneys to question his competency.

After undergoing a 40-day psychiatric evaluation, the judge ruled last week that he was competent to stand trial.

The trial is expected to last three to four weeks, the judge said.

Despite the change of pleas this week, Walshe maintains he did not kill his wife.

His attorney, Kelli Porges, emphasized that point in court, saying: Mr. Walshe is prepared to admit to the recitation of facts with respect to the indictment that the government just read in so far as it alleges he did impede and obstruct the criminal investigation into the disappearance of Ana Walshe. We obviously object, and hes not admitting to  murder.
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A Chicago mother is reeling after she and her son were attacked by a group of schoolkids near a local elementary school.

Corshawnda Hatter, 33, and her nine-year-old son were attacked by a group of kids on Monday afternoon, just blocks away from Orville T. Bright Elementary School in Chicagos Far South Side, according to NBC Chicago. Video of the incident  which has gone viral  shows the young boy holding onto his mother as they were hit, kicked and shoved by several youngsters.

Hatter said her young daughter was also with them and witnessed the attack, Fox 32 News reports.

"I asked my kids to come to the next side of the street with me so they wouldn't get jumped, so we kept walking, Hatter said. They followed us all the way there, they hit my son first, dragged me in the grass and pulled my baby's hair. I'm trying to get justice for my son. I'm thankful to everybody that came out here to support me."

A spokesperson for the Chicago Police Department said the agency doesnt identify victims, but did confirm that a 33-year-old woman and a nine-year-old boy were struck multiple times near the school on Monday, just after 3 p.m. They were both transported to the hospital in serious condition, the spokesperson told The Independent.

A group of students attacked a mom and her nine-year-old son just blocks away from Orville T. Bright Elementary School (pictured) in Chicago, according to local media reports ( Google Maps )

An investigation is ongoing, and no one is in custody as of Wednesday afternoon.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson said he was deeply disturbed after watching the video of the attack, and called for accountability for the attackers. That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence, he wrote on X.

Community members held a rally outside the elementary school on Tuesday, calling for justice for the family. Hatter spoke outside the building and said the attack stemmed from bullying at the school, according to NBC Chicago.

"I cant sleep because I wake up in the middle of the night with that vision in my head of my son calling my name to help him and I couldnt do nothing for him. That really hurt me the most," she said.

Illinois State Senator Willie Preston has also condemned the attack.

No mother should be that helpless and be targeted by children inside of her own community, he said, per NBC Chicago.

School district officials were horrified by the attack and are working with local officials to support the family, according to a statement from Chicago Public Schools.

School administrators, teachers, and support staff work with students to create an open environment where conflicts and grievances can be addressed, the statement reads. School leaders work with parents and all parties involved to find a resolution, adhering to the Student Code of Conduct (SCC) as they address any confirmed violations.

In addition, it is always our goal for all members of our school communities, including staff, students, and parents, to work together proactively to maintain a safe and calm environment at our schools, the statement continues.

The Independent has contacted Hatter for comment.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) and visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attend a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

ANKARA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara.

"It would be beneficial for the Istanbul process to be reactivated with a comprehensive framework that can address the now-acute problems," Erdogan said during their joint press conference, calling for renewed international support for the initiative.

He reaffirmed that Turkiye is ready to discuss with Russia "any proposals that could accelerate a ceasefire and pave the way for a just and lasting peace," urging all partners seeking to stop the bloodshed to adopt a constructive approach to reviving the process.

Russia and Ukraine held a third round of peace talks in Istanbul on July 23, 2025, agreeing to a prisoner exchange but making no progress toward ending the ongoing conflict.

Zelensky, for his part, said Ukraine hopes to restart prisoner exchanges by the end of the year.

"Turkiye is providing strong support on this issue," he said, adding that Kiev trusts "the strength of Turkish diplomacy and its ability to be understood in Moscow."

He thanked Erdogan for Turkiye's stance throughout the conflict.

"Turkiye's principled position on the war with Russia is very important for Ukraine," said the Ukrainian leader, expressing gratitude for the Turkish "cooperation that helps protect lives, and Turkiye's clear attitude to all key aspects" of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. 

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) shakes hands with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (L) shakes hands with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) and visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attend a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (L) shakes hands with visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025 Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) and visiting Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky attend a joint press conference in Ankara, Turkiye, Nov. 19, 2025. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday emphasized Turkiye's commitment to advancing diplomatic efforts to end the Russia-Ukraine conflict, during talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara. (Mustafa Kaya/Handout via Xinhua)
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A DoorDash driver who claimed she was sexually assaulted by a customer she saw asleep with his pants off is now facing felony charges for recording the man and sharing her video online.

Olivia Henderson, 23, was delivering food on October 12 to a man's home in Oswego, New York. In a video she posted on TikTok, she said when she arrived, she saw the man through an open door, passed out on his couch with his pants off, according to AZFamily.

She left the food and reported the man, saying she did not want a similar situation to happen to other women working as delivery drivers.

However, police investigating the incident said that her story did not align with the evidence they collected. They determined that no sexual assault occurred,

While Henderson claims the door was open when she arrived  providing the view into the man's house  Ring camera footage taken from the home reportedly shows her opening the man's door on her own, according to the New York Post.

Former DoorDash driver Olivia Henderson, 23, is facing two counts of unlawful surveillance after she recorded an unconscious customer whose pants were down and posted the video on TikTok ( Tiktok / @irlmonsterhighdoll )

According to police, there is no evidence to suggest the man had invited her to enter his house, and she admitted in her own TikTok video that the man's order asked her to leave his food at his door  not inside his house.

Since the incident occurred, Henderson has posted several videos on TikTok accusing TikTok, DoorDash, and the local police of "silencing" or "punishing" her for speaking out.

"They just punished me for reporting my sexual assault while DoorDashing," she said in one story.

She claimed in another that "TikTok is silencing my story."

Henderson has been charged with one count of first-degree dissemination of an unlawful surveillance image and one count of second-degree unlawful surveillance, according to the Oswego police.

DoorDash has deactivated Henderson and the man's account in the wake of the controversy.

Posting a video of a customer in their home, and disclosing their personal details publicly, is a clear violation of our policies," the company said in a statement after her arrest. That is the sole reason that this Dashers account was deactivated, along with the customers, while we investigated."

If found guilty, Henderson faces up to 8 years in prison.

She is set to appear in court on December 4.
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Cloudflare has revealed the cause behind an outage that took down much of the internet: one bad file.

On Tuesday, an incident at the web infrastructure company meant that many of the worlds biggest websites were knocked offline. Visitors to products such as ChatGPT, X and many other sites instead saw confusing error messages.

It quickly became clear that the problem was at Cloudflare, which provides technologies intended to ensure that websites are able to serve their pages to visitors. A technical error meant that those websites instead stopped working.

Some  including those working at Cloudflare  had speculated that the issue could be the result of a major cyber attack. But the company has now revealed that the problem was internal, and relatively simple.

Cloudflare has a feature file that keeps its systems updated with possible threats to work against. But a change in the companys systems meant that its database was putting multiple entries into that file, which meant that it rapidly doubled in size, and was then sent around to all of the machines in Cloudflares network.

The software that runs on those machines tried to read that file. But it has a limit on its maximum size, which meant that the software failed and so did a host of apparently unconnected websites.

Cloudflare had initially thought that it was under a cyber attack but eventually identified the problem. It was then able to update it and the issue was fully fixed around six hours after it began.

Matthew Prince, Cloudflares chief executive, said that the company are sorry for the impact to our customers and to the Internet in general. Given Cloudflare's importance in the Internet ecosystem any outage of any of our systems is unacceptable, he wrote in a post explaining the problems.

That there was a period of time where our network was not able to route traffic is deeply painful to every member of our team. We know we let you down today.
In this file photo, Senate Health Education Labor and Pensions Committee Chair Bill Cassidy, R-Baton Rouge, listens during an October 9, 2025 hearing . Cassidy has proposed an avenue to address the extension of an expiring tax credit that will double, on average, health care policy prices for more than 20 million Americans.
ADDIS ABABA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The African Union (AU) Commission has condemned all forms of external interference in African countries facing security crises, with particular reference to the ongoing conflict in Sudan.

Briefing journalists Tuesday in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security Bankole Adeoye said the AU must lead any peace negotiations on the continent, underscoring the principle of African solutions to African conflicts.

"We, as the African Union, do not believe anyone should be interfering in or fueling the crisis that is already ongoing in parts of the African continent. So we condemn unequivocally all forms of external interference in Sudan or in any part of our continent," Adeoye said.

He stressed that the AU must play a central role in identifying structural solutions and securing sustainable peace amid Africa's complex security challenges.

Noting that the ongoing war in Sudan caused "appalling" humanitarian crises, Adeoye said the AU is working to end the conflict through facilitating political dialogue between all parties.

"We are working relentlessly to make peace happen in Sudan and our goal is not just a humanitarian ceasefire. It is a comprehensive, unconditional, and all-out ceasefire," Adeoye reiterated.

On Madagascar, Adeoye noted that the island nation is experiencing relative peace as the AU's Panel of the Wise engages with authorities to help restore constitutional order.

"We are hoping and calling on Madagascar to come up with a credible road map to undertake a genuine political transition and bring about constitutional order," Adeoye highlighted.

The commissioner also welcomed the Doha Framework for a Comprehensive Peace Agreement signed between the government of the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the March 23 Movement rebel group.

"All these agreements really mean a lot to the African Union and the African Union has been a partaker of these processes. We commend our partners who have been working with us to make peace happen in eastern DRC," Adeoye added. 
Gina Rinehart has bared her FAANGs. The mega-wealthy and ultra-conservative Australian billionaire who made her fortune digging iron ore in the Pilbara is embracing the future - at least in an investment sense, with a recent amped-up foray into the big US technology stocks.

More specifically, Rinehart has been on a US shopping spree. Technically, she isnt a true FAANG investor because she hasnt put any Netflix (which is the N in FAANG) or Apple (the second A) shares in her investment trolley, but she has jumped on the Nvidia bandwagon and does own shares in Meta (whose social network Facebook is the F), Amazon, and Googles owner Alphabet (the G).

So strictly speaking, she is baring her FANGs.

Gina Rinehart has spent big on US tech stocks, prospecting for chips instead of minerals for a change of pace. Credit: Marija Ercegovac

Her father, Lang Hancock, was a mining pioneer, having discovering massive iron ore deposits out in the West in the 1950s, but Gina arrived at the AI chip prospecting party somewhat later than most.
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Eating outFood One of Brisbanes most beloved bars set to close After 32 years of trade, it remains as popular as ever. You have just three months to pay your respects. Matt Shea November 19, 2025 Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

For 32 years its sat watching over the intersection of Brunswick and Barker Streets while others have come and gone  Alibi Room, Taj Mahal and so many more. But come end of February, Gerties, the enormously popular New Farm bar in the heritage-listed Shops building, will be no more. Owner Raul Chocop made the decision to close the bar after he couldnt agree on terms for a new lease with his landlord. Gerties last service will be at the end of February. Iconic New Farm bar Gerties will permanently close in late February. Rosanna Ryan Speaking to this masthead on Tuesday, Chocop said it was a particularly difficult decision given the bar was still trading strongly. But a proposed steep hike in rent and a litany of maintenance issues meant the decision was more or less made for him.

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I thought to myself, thats life just telling me to go, as much as I love the place, Chocop said. It was no easy decision, I couldnt sleep. I had plans for the business and Im happy because I could provide work for staff and musicians. Related Article Exclusive Ghanem Group takes on the burbs with 350-seat restaurant and bar Ive met so many nice people here. They come back and you feel that love from them. I always made a point of talking to everyone, to make sure they come back. Chocop initially started his time at Gerties as an employee, but bought the business in 2015. I did it for 10 years how I wanted, he said, Not many places can say that, so Im proud.

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While others have come and gone, /for 32 years Gerties has been a constant presence on the intersection of Brunswick and Baker streets. Rosanna Ryan The word beloved gets chucked around too much when talking about popular food and drink venues, but it applies to Gerties. Its always been a well pitched, service-focused bar, as popular with New Farm locals as it is interlopers. Any restaurateur or bar owner will tell you its not easy taking over an existing venue and keeping its numbers up. But Chocop managed it through sheer personality and attention to service. The place has so much character, which I slowly changed over time with little additions here and there, he said. Some friends said, Why dont you put QR codes on the tables? I said, No, I dont want that. Related Article One of West Ends best small restaurants has closed permanently

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People dont understand. Maybe it saves you money, but then guests dont get that experience to remember. You lose in the long term. Gerties final service for the general public is currently set for February 24. Chocop said he will begin thinking about his next venue over the summer, whether it be a continuation of Gerties in a different location or something else entirely. I will take a break to go see my mum [in Guatemala], he said. I havent seen my mum in years.

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Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Share License this article More: Food

For subscribers Matt Shea is Food and Culture Editor at Brisbane Times. He is a former editor and editor-at-large at Broadsheet Brisbane, and has written for Escape, Qantas Magazine, the Guardian, Jetstar Magazine and SilverKris, among many others.
South African Deputy Minister of Employment and Labor Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala addresses the completion ceremony of SANY's new industrial park in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nov. 19, 2025. China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

JOHANNESBURG, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, South Africa, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive.

The 28,000-square-meter industrial park integrates manufacturing and logistics functions as well as a talent training center. Once fully operational, it will have an annual production capacity of around 1,000 excavators.

According to Guo Ruiguang, vice president of SANY Group, the company began its global expansion in Africa, where it has sold equipment worth more than 3 billion U.S. dollars and built a comprehensive service network across the continent.

"The industrial park is not just a factory. It is a manufacturing hub, a logistics center, and a talent development platform that will create more than 100 new jobs," Guo said.

Speaking at the completion ceremony, South African Deputy Minister of Employment and Labor Judith Nemadzinga-Tshabalala praised the project, saying it reflects the Chinese company's confidence in South Africa's economic prospects and its long-term commitment to the region.

"One of the most compelling aspects of this project is sending dedication to skills development and technology transfer by investing in training and upskilling our workforce, saving for us to build a new generation of South African technicians, engineers, and industrial specialists," she said.

Qiu Zhongyi, economic and commercial counsellor at the Chinese Embassy in South Africa, said that SANY has evolved from a simple equipment seller to a contributor to South Africa's industrialization process over the past years.

Qiu noted that South Africa remains one of China's most important investment destinations in Africa, with hundreds of Chinese companies creating jobs, contributing to tax revenues, and unlocking valuable opportunities for shared development. 

This photo taken on Nov. 19, 2025 shows the interior of SANY's newly built factory in Johannesburg, South Africa. China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

Local employees pose for a photo in front of SANY excavators in Johannesburg, South Africa, on Nov. 19, 2025. China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

Dancers perform at the completion ceremony of SANY's new industrial park in Johannesburg, South Africa, Nov. 19, 2025. China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)

This photo taken on Nov. 19, 2025 shows SANY's newly built factory in Johannesburg, South Africa. China's leading heavy equipment manufacturer SANY on Wednesday commissioned a new industrial park in Johannesburg, strengthening its support for the country's industrialization drive. (Xinhua/Yang Guang)
The Perth-based brother of Victorias tobacco king has had his flashy luxury cars seized and fronted court after a police raid on his home in a well-heeled suburb in the citys south.

Maytham Hamad appeared in Perth Magistrates Court on Wednesday, charged with knowingly dealing with proceeds of crime to the value of more than $1 million, between February and September this year in Mount Pleasant.

Maytham Hamad coming out of Perth Magistrates Court following a previous appearance.

Police accuse him of operating a commercial-scale operation running dirty money and illicit tobacco across three states while helping run a family crime syndicate.

Hamad was charged as a part of a joint investigation by WA and Victorian police forces named Operation Charger, following extensive inquiries into his alleged organised crime activities across WA, Victoria and NSW.
If Australia has conceded defeat to Turkey over the hosting rights for next years COP climate talks, someone should tell Climate Change and Energy Minister Chris Bowen in Brazil, where he is currently advocating for the bid at this years meeting.

Mixed messages from Australia are not making his job any easier, say observers on the ground.

Mixed messages  Chris Bowen and Anthony Albanese. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Australia has been making a case to host the talks, along with its Pacific neighbours, since 2022. With the full support of all the other nations in its Western Europe and others UN group, it has long been seen as the inevitable winner.

All other nations in the grouping, that is, except for Turkey, which is prosecuting its own campaign to host COP31.
The Coalition is exploring how it can toughen screening to make sure new migrants agree with Australian values, as Opposition Leader Sussan Leys frontbench works on an immigration policy that will unite fractured MPs while taking a fight to Labor.

Enhancing the Australian values statement that prospective migrants must sign when they apply for certain visas is one option available to Leys home affairs spokesman Jonno Duniam and immigration spokesman Paul Scarr, who have been asked to design a policy in the next few weeks.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley and her home affairs spokesman Jonno Duniam. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Ley last week signalled her next fight with the government would be over migration, as she seeks to temper freelancing from backbenchers, such as leadership rival Andrew Hastie and Senator Jacinta Nampijinpa Price, after the Right faction won the numbers in a showdown on climate policy.

But as Indian-Australians report increased racism  and the Liberals mop up the fallout from comments made by Price earlier this year  Ley, Duniam and Scarr have been at pains to emphasise they do not want a debate about race or religion.
Increasing spending on missiles and cultivating national pride to prepare for war would be key priorities of a Coalition government, Opposition Leader Sussan Ley will declare as she aims to bolster her leadership by panning Labors security agenda.

In her first major speech on defence, Ley strikes a contrast with Foreign Minister Penny Wongs doctrine of positive diplomacy earlier this week, instead arguing Australia should be more ready and resilient if diplomacy fails and conflict breaks out.

Opposition Leader Sussan Ley on a tour of the Marley Flow Control facility in Emu Plains, NSW with colleague Dan Tehan (left). Credit: Wolter Peeters

Leys keynote speech on Thursday at the Menzies Research Centre follows weeks of internal party feuding over energy policy and speculation of a leadership challenge from rivals including Andrew Hastie.

Hastie was the defence spokesman under Peter Dutton, and Leys keynote address, which identifies new areas of spending, was pitched as a marked improvement on Dutton and Hasties policy of boosting defence spending to 3 per cent of GDP without specifying where money would go.
Esafety commissioner Julie Inman Grant has been called to testify before the US Congress over Australias Online Safety Act, with a Republican lawmaker labelling her a noted zealot for global take-downs and an enemy of American free speech.

Inman Grant has been given less than two weeks notice to testify before the committee, and a spokesperson from her office says she is considering her options. The letter, delivered exactly three weeks before the governments world-first under-16 social media ban is set to come into effect, featured accusations that the commissioner had colluded with pro-censorship entities.

E-Safety Commissioner Julie Inman Grant. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

As the Australian eSafety Commissioner, you are the official primarily responsible for enforcing Australias Online Safety Act (OSA), which imposes obligations on American companies and threatens speech of American citizens, the letter signed by House Judiciary Committee chair Jim Jordan read.

Your expansive interpretation and enforcement of Australias OSA  including your claim of extraterritorial jurisdiction to censor speech outside of Australia  directly threatens American speech.
Russian crude oil imports, which have already been on a downward trend, will within this month, cease altogether to be imported by the RIL refinery located in the SEZ, a Reliance spokesman told this masthead. And from 1st December onwards product exports from [the] SEZ refinery will be from non-Russian crude oil. Oil silos on the Russkoye heavy crude oil field, operated by Rosneft PJSC, in the Yamalo-Nenets region of East Siberia. Credit: Bloomberg via Getty Images All our product exports to Australia are from the refinery in SEZ and will have been derived from non-Russian crude oil from that date. CREA analyst Vaibhav Raghunandan estimated that Indian supplies comprised about 10 per cent of the petrol and diesel sold in Australia. The Jamnagar refinery, he said, accounted for 90 per cent of those Indian supplies. Most of the rest comes from a refinery in Mangalore.

Raghunandan welcomed the statement from Reliance but said it seemed to apply to the export refinery in the SEZ and it would be difficult to check how supplies were kept separate from the domestic refinery in the same complex. The company has maintained that theyre able to segregate the crude and process it differently for different markets, he said. I think that if that is true, the onus lies on importers and buyers in Australia and elsewhere to do their due diligence so they are able to say they are satisfied with Jamnagars processes. The move comes days ahead of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump to commence tough sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, dramatically increasing the risks for traders who buy from those companies.

Reliance, chaired by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, struck a 10-year contract with Rosneft last December to buy about half the Russian companys seaborne oil exports, in a deal estimated to account for about 0.5 per cent of global supply. While many refineries in western nations stopped using Russian oil, Reliance continued doing so and generated profits from the lower price charged for cargoes that were blocked elsewhere. US President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on Russian oil companies last month. Credit: Bloomberg Trump announced the sanctions on October 22 after the collapse of an attempted summit with Putin to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine, signalling his impatience with the Russian leader. Treasury set November 21 as the start date for the sanctions and warned that those doing business with the sanctioned companies would be exposed to further action.

Violations of US sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on US and foreign persons, it said. This raised a potential risk for any business executive transiting through the US. While the Trump administration has given Lukoil a waiver until December 13 due to the complexities of some of its operations  including a refinery in Bulgaria  there is no similar postponement for Rosneft. Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at the Kremlin on Tuesday. Credit: AP The US Treasury said on Monday the sanctions were already driving down the price of Russian oil and therefore the revenue for the Kremlin. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called on Australian companies to ensure they were not buying from suppliers who bought from Russia, saying the industry had a responsibility not to fund the illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine.

The European Union sharpened its approach last month by imposing rules on October 16 to halt the import of refined fuels produced from Russian crude, a move aimed at refineries such as those in India. Australia is yet to match that move, but the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said last week it was evaluating options to place further pressure on Russias oil revenues. A Lukoil petrol station in Belgrade, Serbia. Credit: Bloomberg While the changes at Jamnagar could reduce the volume of Russian oil being used for petrol and diesel sold in Australia, the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations has called for action across the industry to stop blood oil coming from all sources. Our fuel importers are aware of their supply chains, they know what they are buying, they are just putting profits above ethics, organisation chairwoman Kateryna Argyrou said.

It is their responsibility to act ethically and to understand that their current purchasing decisions are undermining the Australian governments support for Ukraine. If they wont act, the government must intervene. Further, the Albanese government can apply bans at the refinery level, rather than targeting countries as a whole. Viva, the owner of Australias Shell petrol stations, says its imports of Indian oil have fallen to zero. Credit: Eamon Gallagher Australian suppliers Ampol, BP and Mobil declined to specify whether they used imports from India for any of the fuel they sold to motorists, but Viva Energy said it only relied on India for 1 per cent of its imports over the past year and this had fallen to zero. Caltex said it did not use any Indian supplies. We conduct appropriate checks on trading counterparties and documents that are used to evidence the origin of products, BP said when this masthead asked if its imports came from India.

Ampol said it was focused on the safe and reliable supply of fuel. Ampol remains deeply concerned about the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the profound impact it is having on Ukraines people, it said. Mobil Oil Australia said it complied with all sanctions imposed by the Australian government. Caltex, however, was specific about ruling out the use of Indian supplies, saying: Our Australian Caltex business does not import products from any Indian refineries.
KAMPALA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese medical team in Uganda on Wednesday donated an assortment of medicines and equipment to the China-Uganda Friendship Hospital in the country's capital city, Kampala.

Tang Min, head of the 25th batch of the Chinese medical team, handed over the donation to Irene Nayiga, the hospital's executive director, during a ceremony attended by officials from the Chinese Embassy in Uganda.

The donation included a high-pressure autoclave, a vital signs monitor, a carbon dioxide cell incubator, and various pharmaceutical supplies.

Tang said the donation shows the deep friendship and long-term cooperation between China and Uganda and carries the unwavering commitment of China to the health and well-being of the Ugandan people.

"These devices will greatly boost the laboratory diagnostic and emergency treatment capabilities of China-Uganda Friendship Hospital and deliver benefits to both the people and the local community," Tang said.

Nayiga hailed the Chinese medical team for their timely donations, saying that the move would bring tangible benefits to patients and communities.

"We want to commend the Chinese team for the timely donation to our hospital, which has always been serving a big community around this area. We want to assure the team that the donations they have given us will be put to proper use and benefit our patients," she said.

Nayiga also commended China for sending medical teams to share knowledge and skills with their Ugandan counterparts as they strive to improve health care.

China has been sending medical teams to Uganda since 1983. The 100-bed China-Uganda Friendship Hospital was built through a partnership between the two countries in 2012. 
DAR ES SALAAM, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China and Tanzania have taken a significant step toward deepening railway cooperation with the completion of a major training program for Tanzanian railway technicians.

The three-month program, commissioned by China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC) and hosted by Beijing Jiaotong University, concluded on Tuesday with 67 trainees, including 11 women, according to the statement issued Wednesday.

The CCECC said that the training of Tanzanian railway technicians marks the most significant overseas talent-development initiative undertaken by the Tanzania Railways Corporation in recent years.

Approved by Tanzanian authorities in April, the program sought to meet Tanzania's urgent need for skilled personnel to operate its expanding standard-gauge railway network, said the Chinese company.

Participants, drawn from frontline positions such as drivers, wagon inspectors, technicians, freight personnel, and safety officers, received both theoretical instruction and hands-on training, it noted.

The company also said that China's Zhengzhou Railway Vocational and Technical College provided practical teaching support, and the training focused on four areas, namely mechanical and vehicle maintenance, passenger and freight safety management, dispatch efficiency, and operational system management.

According to the CCECC, the trainees will return home as "seed instructors," expected to train additional personnel and help build a sustainable talent pipeline for Tanzania's railway sector.

From the historic TAZARA line to today's railway construction projects, the program marks a shift from construction support to joint development of operational capabilities, it added. 
Dont blindly trust everything AI tells you, cautions Sundar Pichai





LONDON :

GOOGLE boss Sundar Pichai has cautioned users not to blindly trust everything artificial intelligence (AI) tells them, even as he struck a warning note for companies to watch out for an AI investment bubble burst that no one would be immune to. In an interview with the BBC, the Indian-American CEO of Alphabet  the parent company of Google  pointed out that AI models are prone to errors and urged users to balance them alongside other tools. Pichai said this highlighted the importance of having a rich information ecosystem, rather than solely relying on AI technology. This is why people also use Google search, and we have other products that are more grounded in providing accurate information, Pichai told the BBC.

He said that while AI tools were helpful if you want to creatively write something, people have to learn to use these tools for what theyre good at, and not blindly trust everything they say. In May, Google introduced an AI Mode into its search using its Gemini chatbot, aimed at an experience of talking to an expert. We take pride in the amount of work we put in to give us as accurate information as possible, but the current state-of-the-art AI technology is prone to some errors, he said. The worlds leading tech expert went on to reflect that while the growth of AI investment had been an extraordinary moment, there was some irrationality in the current AI boom.

Asked whether Google would be immune to the impact of the AI bubble bursting, Pichai said the tech giant could weather that potential storm. I think no company is going to be immune, including us, he said during a wide-ranging interview at Googles Silicon Valley headquarters in California. We can look back at the internet right now. There was clearly a lot of excess investment, but none of us would question whether the internet was profound. I expect AI to be the same. So I think its both rational and there are elements of irrationality through a moment like this, he said. Pichai said Googles unique model of owning its own full stack of technologies  from chips to YouTube data, to models and frontier science  meant it was in a better position to ride out any AI market turbulence. The tech giant is also expanding its footprint in the UK, committing 5 billion pounds to infrastructure and research over the next two years. We are committed to investing in the UK in a pretty significant way, said Pichai.
Cabinet approves key measures to boost agriculture, child welfare, health, science





Staff Reporter :

The Madhya Pradesh Cabinet, chaired by Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav, on Tuesday approved a series of important decisions spanning agriculture, child welfare, healthcare, science and technology, and administrative reforms. In a major move for farmers, the Cabinet approved amendments to the Pradhan Mantri Krishak Mitra Surya Yojana, aimed at providing solar pumps for irrigation. Under the revised provisions, farmers can now opt for pumps of higher capacity than previously sanctioned. Those with a 3 HP temporary electricity connection will be eligible for a 5 HP solar pump, while a 5 HP connection holder can now obtain a 7.5 HP pump. Farmers with temporary electricity connections will contribute only 10% of the installation cost for pumps up to 7.5 HP, as the government will provide a 90% subsidy.

The scheme, operational in Madhya Pradesh under the KUSUM-B framework since January 2025, is expected to reduce electricity subsidy expenditure and distribution losses. The Cabinet also approved the continuation of the Non-Institutional Service Scheme under Mission Vatsalya for the next five years. This includes Sponsorship, Foster Care, and After Care programs, offering financial assistance of Rs 4,000 per month to eligible children. The scheme targets children of widowed, divorced, or abandoned mothers, orphans, children with parents suffering from incurable diseases, and other vulnerable groups, including street children, child labourers, and those affected by disasters or exploitation.

The total expenditure is pegged at Rs 1,022.40 crore, benefiting over 33,000 children, with Rs 408.96 crore as the state share and Rs 613.44 crore from the Central Government. In healthcare, the Cabinet sanctioned 373 new posts and 806 human resource services for 50-bed AYUSH hospitals across 12 districts and a 30-bed hospital in Barwani district. The sanctioned posts include 52 Class-1, 91 Class-2, and 230 Class-3 posts, with an annual financial implication of Rs 25.57 crore. The human resources will be managed through the National AYUSH Mission. For the Madhya Pradesh S cience and Technology Council, the Cabinet approved the 2025 recruitment and service rules for scientific and non-scientific staff, lifting the recruitment ban imposed since 2015.

The council will continue as the nodal agency for research in remote sensing, climate change, rural technology, space science, and advanced scientific facilities, with plans to upgrade the scientific cadre to meet emerging research needs. Other key decisions include granting 7th Pay Commission benefits to officers of the Medico-Legal Institution effective from January 2016, approving amendments to the Social Impact Bond scheme with a Rs 100 crore budget transfer to the Finance Department, and creation of nine posts in the newly formed District Legal Services Authority, Agra-Malwa, with an annual financial burden of Rs 59.42 lakh. The Cabinet meeting began with the singing of Vande Mataram.
Election Commission says No to VVPAT in local body polls





Staff Reporter :

The Maharashtra State Election Commission (SEC) has filed a detailed response in the Nagpur Bench of the Bombay High Court, demanding rejection of a petition that asked to use VVPAT (Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail) machines in the upcoming local body elections. The SECs main defence is that it is not legally required to use the paper trail system, and doing so is currently not technically possible. The court received the SECs document on Tuesday and postponed the hearing to Wednesday. The petition was filed by Congress National Secretary Prafulla Vinodrao Gudadhe, who argued that VVPATs or a switch back to ballot papers was necessary to ensure transparency and public trust in the voting process. The SECs Deputy Secretary, K Suryakrishnamurty, filed the reply affidavit, presenting several key legal arguments:

Missing law for VVPAT in local body elections

The most crucial point is that the laws governing local elections in Maharashtra- including those for Municipal Corporations, Zilla Parishads, and Village Panchayats - do not contain any provision that allows the use of VVPATs with Electronic Voting Machines (EVMs). The SEC stated that it is a constitutional body, but its powers are strictly limited by these local laws. It cannot introduce VVPAT technology unless the State Legislature amends these Acts.

Case already decided in 2017

The SEC argued that the current petition should be dismissed because the same request was made in an earlier case in 2017 (Sunil Sudam Khatale-Patil v Maharashtra State Election Commission) and was already dismissed by the Bombay High Court. The SEC also claimed the petition is incomplete because the State of Maharashtra -the only authority with the power to change the relevant laws - has not been included as a party in the legal challenge. EVMs not designed for multi-post elections Unlike National or Assembly elections where a voter chooses only one candidate, local elections in Maharashtra are mostly multi-member and multi-post. This means a single voter often casts votes for two, three, or four different positions on the same EVM unit. The SECs current EVMs are specifically designed for this complex system.

VVPAT incompatibility for multi-post EVMs

The standard VVPAT machines, which are designed for single-post elections, are not compatible with the SECs multi-post EVMs. Furthermore, the SEC stated that no approved technical design exists for a VVPAT machine that can successfully work with its multi-post system.

Failed experiment in 2017

The SEC reminded the court that it had conducted a pilot project using VVPATs in the Nanded-Waghala Municipal Corporation election in 2017. This experiment failed due to multiple technical issues and no recommendation was made for its widespread use afterwards. The SEC had even asked the Election Commission of India (ECI) to lend its VVPAT-compatible EVMs for the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (a single-post election), but the ECI refused the request.

Requires 1 lakh ballot baxes

Addressing the petitioners alternate demand to shift to paper ballots if VVPATs are not used, the SEC called the idea impractical and impossible to implement. The Commission stated that it currently has no ballot boxes in stock. It would be impossible to approve a design and manufacture approximately 1 lakh ballot boxes before the Supreme Courts strict deadline of January 31, 2026, for completing the elections. The SEC maintained that its decision to proceed with EVMs without VVPAT is a reasoned and legal decision, based on the current law, technical feasibility studies, and logistical constraints. The Commission requested the court to dismiss the petition. Adv Pawan Dahat appeared for the petitioner.
End of Hidmas terror marks Spring of Peace in Bastar: CM





Staff Reporter :

Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai hailed the security forces for their exceptional courage in a major counter-insurgency operation along the ChhattisgarhAndhra Pradesh border, which led to the neutralization of top Maoist leader and Central Committee member Madvi Hidma along with six other cadres. Calling it a historic achievement, Sai said that the development marks a decisive milestone in States fight against Naxalism.

The Chief Minister said that the elimination of Hidma, who had long been the face of bloodshed, violence, and fear in the Bastar region, is not only a tactical success but also a major blow to the red terror. This incident strengthens our resolve to establish lasting peace in the region, he added. Recalling recent developments, Sai noted that the surrender of hundreds of Naxal cadres, the arrest of several top operatives, and a series of successful operations in recent months show that the Naxal movement is now in its final phase

Chief Minister Sai emphasized that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Home Minister Amit Shah, the states good governance model has ushered in a new era of peace, trust, and development in Bastar. Initiatives such as Niyad Nella Nar, the Naxalite rehabilitation policy, and the establishment of new security camps have helped strengthen public confidence and instill new hope across villages in Bastar. Expressing optimism about the future, the Chief Minister said that with the joint strategy of the Centre and the state, India will be completely free from Naxalism by March 2026.
Farmers welcome move to roll back scheme for Simhastha





By Bhavana :

Aparajita Shukla Almost after one year and drawing flak from various organisations, farmers union, most importantly including the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh and Congress party, against the proposed land pooling process for the upcoming Simhastha, the State Government has announced to revoke the scheme in Ujjain with immediate effect on Monday. Members of various farmers unions have expressed their gratitude and warmly welcomed the Chief Ministers decision. The scheme aimed at permanently acquiring 2,378 hectares of land to build infrastructure (named- Kumbh city) for the Simhastha Kumbh Mela, 2028, with an investment of Rs 2,000 crore.

Since beginning, the Bharatiya Kisan Sangh (BKS), is a subsidiary of the Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) was against the proposed land pooling policy in Ujjain citing anti-farmers in the State. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav announced the move after a high-level meeting on Monday, affirming that the interests of farmers and saints will be given the highest priority as preparations for Simhastha move forward. Situation can be understood with the fact that just after the meeting, CM made announcement and instructed the Urban Administration and Development Department as well as the district administration to issue Immediate orders formalising the cancellation of land pooling.

The scheme was introduced in 2024 with an aim of building a permanent city and developing infrastructure, including roads, ashrams for saints and akhadas, electricity infrastructure, underground drainage system, hospitals, and government Government statement says in honour of farmers sentiments, the State Government has taken this decision on Monday late night, affirming that the interests of farmers and saints will be given the highest priority as preparations for Simhastha move forward. Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav hails from Ujjain and almost all the organisations in this pious city were against the proposal.

Farmers had threatened mass agitation and BKS declared its support to the protest. In such a situation, Dr Mohan Yadav-led Government cant take a chance to inched the matter and it is the working style of Dr Mohan Yadav, who in past too manage the things successfully. Noteworthy to mention that in past most of the decisions taken by erstwhile Shivraj Singh Chouhan government were roll backed except Ladli Bahna Scheme. Initially, CM did not say a word about the continuation of the scheme. Gradually, after learning the ground situation and sensed that opposition Congress is trying to make it big issue. New Chief Minister Mohan Yadav not only announced to continue the scheme a step ahead gave hint to rise the amount of Ladli Bahana Scheme.

Likewise this too, the Government that was silent for around one year suddenly made announced to roll back the land pooling scheme. During the meeting held at the Chief Ministers residence, Dr Yadav reviewed Simhastha preparations with representatives of the Kisan Sangh, BJP leaders, public representatives from Ujjain and senior officials of the Ujjain district administration. A consensus was reached to organise a divine, grand and world-class Simhastha while ensuring that no stakeholder, especially farmers, is adversely affected. The meeting saw the participation of senior MLA and State President Hemant Khandelwal, MLA Anil Jain Kalukheda and Kisan Sangh representatives including Mahesh Choudhary, Kamal Singh Anjana, Atul Maheshwari, Lakshmi Narayan Patel, Bharat Bais and Ramesh Dangi.
Hasina verdict: Protests, arson rock Desh





DHAKA :

FOLLOWING the death sentence of former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, the country reeled under protests and attacks throughout the night as several vehicles were torched in five districts. Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) on Monday pronounced a death sentence for former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina after it found her guilty on the charges of crimes against humanity related to the demonstrations in July of last year.

The court also convicted Hasina and her two top aides, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal and former Inspector General of Police, Chowdhury Abdullah Al-Mamun. Mamun has been granted a pardon, but the court said that, given the intensity of the crimes, he will be given a lenient sentence. Following this, the effect was largely seen in Dhakas Dhanmondi 32, where clashes turned the area into a battlefield on Monday. Additionally, at least 50 people, including the security personnel, were injured, reports leading Bangladeshi daily, Dhaka Tribune.

The house of Bangladeshs founding father and Hasinas father, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, is located in Dhanmondi 32. Demonstrators blocked several highways while leading marches, clashing with security forces, who had been deployed in the capital city and other areas of the South Asian nation. The police resorted to batons, sound grenades, and tear gas in an attempt to disperse the protesters. More than 50 arson and crude bomb attacks were reported across Bangladesh over the last week, leaving at least three dead, reports leading Bangladeshi newspaper, The Daily Star.

Additionally, the house of former President Abdul Hamid in Kishoreganj was attacked and vandalised late on Monday night. After Hasinas sentencing, a procession was taken out in the area to celebrate the decision, when a mob of 20-30 men attacked the former Presidents home, reports Prothom Alo. The situation stays grim in the South Asian nation following the verdict on the democratically elected Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.
CAIRO, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Egypt on Wednesday signed a nuclear fuel purchase order and a comprehensive cooperation agreement with Russia's state-owned Rosatom for Egypt's first nuclear power plant at El-Dabaa, the Egyptian cabinet said in a statement.

The purchase order is to supply nuclear fuel for the plant's first reactor core, marking the project's readiness for further implementation, whereas the cooperation agreement includes joint work in medical isotopes production for cancer treatment, it said.

The signing coincided with a ceremony to install the reactor pressure vessel for the plant's first reactor unit, which was witnessed via videoconference by Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin.

Al-Sisi described the step as "the first page of Egypt's nuclear energy project," reflecting "strategic and stable relations between Egypt and Russia, built on mutual respect."

He said the project signals Egypt's full-speed advancement in nuclear energy.

Putin called the partnership "a great honor and privilege," which has opened new horizons for expertise exchange.

He noted that 100 Egyptian students have received nuclear training in Russian universities, and the plant's first reactor unit will generate 460 megawatts of electricity.

Located in Matrouh province, the El-Dabaa plant will comprise four reactor units, each with a capacity of 1,200 megawatts. Russia is financing 85 percent of the 28.75-billion-U.S.-dollar project through a 22-year loan.

Atomstroyexport serves as the general contractor, with Egypt's Nuclear Power Plants Authority overseeing the construction, which began in July 2022. 
ICT verdict against Sheikh Hasina Global rights groups, think tanks question fairness of trial in Desh





NEW DELHI :

INTERNATIONAL rights watchdogs and global think tanks have questioned the fairness of the trial that led to the death sentence for deposed Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. Hasina, 78, was on Monday sentenced to death in absentia by Bangladeshs International Crimes Tribunal (ICT-BD) for crimes against humanity over her Governments brutal crackdown on student-led protests last year. Amnesty International in a statement on Monday said Hasinas trial and death sentence in absentia were neither fair nor just, while New York-based Human Rights Watch (HRW) said the prosecution failed to meet international fair trial standards.

This was not a fair trial... The unprecedented speed of this trial in absentia and verdict raises significant fair trial concerns for a case of this scale and complexity, Amnesty said. The rights watchdog said despite being represented by a court-appointed lawyer, Hasina was not given adequate time to prepare her defence, and that defence cross-examination of contradictory evidence was not allowed. It said the trial was conducted before a court that Amnesty International has long criticised for its lack of independence and history of unfair proceedings.

Amnesty said victims of July 2024 unrest deserved far better and Bangladesh needs a justice process that is scrupulously fair and fully impartial, beyond all suspicion of bias, and that does not resort to further human rights violations through the death penalty. HRW in a statement said evidence against Hasina included audio recordings in which she allegedly ordered the use of lethal weapons. It noted that although the court-appointed lawyer could cross-examine witnesses, he did not present any defence witnesses.

Ensuring justice also means protecting the rights of the accused, including by abolishing the death penalty, which is inherently cruel and irreversible, it said. Awami League calls the verdict malicious, retaliatory, vengeful: BANGLADESHS Awami League party on Tuesday strongly rejected the verdict of the countrys so-called International Crimes Tribunal (ICT) against former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, calling the ruling malicious, retaliatory, and vengeful.
Miscreants stabs woman to death in Uriya Mohalla area





Staff Reporter :

Panic gripped Uriya Mohalla area when a miscreant killed a woman by stabbing her with sharp-edged weapon under the jurisdiction of Omti police station, on Tuesday morning. The deceased has been identified as Muskan Yadav (31), a resident of Uriya mohalla area. According to Omti police, they received information from District Government Hospital that a woman was admitted for treatment of her critical injuries in an attack in Uriya mohalla.

Learning about the incident, police reached the hospital and found that the woman succumbed to her grave injuries. In further investigation, police learnt that, on Tuesday morning, the deceased was working outside her house when a miscreant, who lives in the same locality arrived and tried to talk to her forcefully. When Muskan ignored him and attempted to go inside the house, he suddenly attacked her with a knife.

After committing the crime, the accused managed to escape from the spot. Some onlookers rushed the severely injured woman to the district hospital. Due to her critical condition, she was referred to the medical college, where she succumbed to her injuries. Additional SP, Ayush Gupta reached the crime scene with Omti police officials and began the investigation. During the inquiry, residents informed the police that the accused, identified as Golu Yadav, had been harassing Muskan repeatedly for the past three months. Muskans husband had also objected to his behaviour earlier.

The victims husband, Anand Yadav, said he was bathing at home when he heard his wife scream. As he rushed outside, he saw Golu Yadav attacking Muskan with a knife

When neighbours gathered, the accused threatened them with the knife and ran towards Ghantaghar. He added that the accused is a habitual criminal with prior cases of theft, assault and several other serious crimes already registered against him. Omti police have registered a case and started a rigorous search for apprehending the accused.
Mumbai court frames charges against Nawab Malik in PMLA case





MUMBAI :

A COURT here on Tuesday framed charges against former Maharashtra minister Nawab Malik in a money laundering case linked to the activities of the Dawood Ibrahim gang, paving the way for the trial to start. The NCP leader, who appeared in person before the special court for cases against MPs and MLAs, pleaded not guilty along with other accused. Special judge Satyanarayan Navander then framed and read out the charges against the accused. They will be tried under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). The case pertains to the activities of two firms run by the family members of Nawab Malik and Dawood Ibrahim gang member Sardar Khan. The senior NCP leader was represented by his lawyers Kushal Mor and Taraq Sayyed during the proceedings. Sardar Khan, a 1993 Mumbai bomb blasts case convict, appeared through video conference from the Nagpur jail.

The special judge framed the charges despite both the defence and prosecution seeking adjournment as a petition related to the case is pending before the Bombay HC. The judge cited a Nov 14 order of the Bombay HC that charges in cases against MPs/MLAs must be framed within four weeks, even without insisting on physical presence of the accused. The judge also referred to an earlier order where the Bombay High Court insisted upon day-to-day hearing of such cases in the light of directions issued by the Supreme Court. When there are specific directions of the HC, and particularly when the special court has already concluded that there is sufficient material to frame the charges, no adjournment can be granted, the judge said.

The Enforcement Directorates case against Malik is based on a First Information Report registered by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) against fugitive gangster Dawood Ibrahim and his associates under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act. It is alleged that Nawab Malik, in connivance with Dawood gang members Haseena Parkar, Salim Patel and Sardar Khan, participated in laundering of illegally usurped property located in Goawala Compound in suburban Kurla. The proceeds of crime were further multiplied by way of collecting and genuinising rent through Solidus Investments and Malik Infrastructure which are controlled by Nawab Maliks family, the ED alleged. The ED arrested Malik in February 2022 in the case. He is currently on medical bail granted by the Supreme Court.
Some relief as Bhopals minimum temp rises to 8.2C, Rajgarh records 5.8C





Staff Reporter :

Madhya Pradesh continues to reel under a severe cold wave, with several districts experiencing near-freezing temperatures, but residents may notice a slight reprieve as minimum temperatures have risen marginally over the last 24 hours. Bhopal, which recorded a chilling 5.2C on Monday, has seen its minimum temperature rose to 8.2C. Similarly, other districts have reported slight increases, though the cold remains intense across the State. Rajgarh remains the coldest district at 5.8C, while Kalyanpur in Shahdol and Girvar in Shajapur recorded 6.2C, Pachmarhi 6.4C, Sehore 7.5C, and Umaria 7.6C.

The weather has remained dry across Madhya Pradesh during the past 24 hours, with no rainfall recorded anywhere in the State. Maximum temperatures showed little change, with Vidisha and Narmadapuram hitting 28.8C, while other regions stayed below normal. Overall, temperatures across Indore and Rewa divisions were appreciably below normal by 3.23.3C, while Bhopal, Ujjain, Gwalior, Chambal, Jabalpur, Shahdol, and Sagar divisions recorded slightly below-normal maximums.

Minimum temperatures were markedly below normal in Bhopal and Indore divisions by 6.1-6.8C, appreciably below normal in several other divisions, and below normal in Shahdol division. The India Meteorological Department has forecast a slight increase in minimum temperatures by 2-3C over the next three days, providing marginal relief from the intense cold. Bhopal is expected to see clear skies with morning haze, light winds of 810 kmph, and temperatures ranging between 8C and 26C over the next 24 hours.

Cold wave conditions continue in Bhopal, Vidisha, Sehore, Dhar, Khandwa, Khargone, Badwani, Rewa, Shahdol, Jabalpur, Chhatarpur, Shivpuri, and Betul districts, while Rajgarh, Indore, and Shajapur face severe cold wave conditions. Authorities advise residents to take precautions such as wearing adequate warm clothing, protecting sensitive body parts, and limiting outdoor exposure. Farmers are urged to safeguard crops and animals from the cold.
Suicide bombing is actually a martyrdom operation





NEW DELHI :

IN A viral video, the Delhi Red Fort bomber, Dr Umar Mohammad, is heard talking about suicide bombing and says that it is a very misunderstood concept. Umar Mohammad, also known as Umar un Nabi, says that what is called suicide bombing is actually a martyrdom operation. This explains his mindset, and contrary to some reports, Umar in fact had full plans of carrying out a large-scale suicide bombing. He also says that a martyrdom operation is one in which a person presumes that he is going to die at a place and at a particular time. He also says that several arguments and contradictions have been brought against suicide bombing. Umar was in the car that exploded near the Red Fort on November 10. At least 15 people died in the blast.

Officials looking into the video say that this was probably recorded to send out a large message. His intention was clear to radicalise people into taking up arms and then carrying out suicide attacks. Umars mindset is clear that suicide bombings are the way to go as they are the most lethal form of striking. Further, this has also become a norm for terror groups such as the Islamic State and Hamas. The video is being examined closely by the investigating agencies. This video could provide more insight into the mindset and plans that were in place. The police have learnt that Umar was the most radical among all the other module members from Faridabad. He was self-radicalised and joined the Jaish-e-Mohammads Faridabad terror module of his own will. He was part of the larger planning and also the execution of the attacks. He, along with the remaining module members, had planned on carrying out a series of attacks in and around Delhi. The police suspect that Umar may have panicked after the Faridabad module was busted and detonated the car in a crowded area. The original plan was to ram the car into the Red Fort on January 26.

In the run-up to the explosion, the module had planned to carry out a suicide bombing on many occasions. Originally, it was meant to be on August 15. The plan was then postponed owing to heavy security. They then planned on carrying out the attack on December 6. There was also a debate on whether to also strike on January 26 next year. However, the Faridabad module was busted, and this led to the premature bombing on November 10. During the raids, the police seized nearly 3,000 kilograms of ammonium nitrate that was mixed with Triacetone triperoxide (TATP). This mixture makes the explosive extremely potent and lethal. Owing to the nature of the explosive that was seized, it was stored at the Nowgam police station in Jammu and Kashmir. However, it accidentally exploded, resulting in several deaths. The explosion took place before the forensics team could reach the police station premises.
SEOUL, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- All 267 people were rescued on Wednesday from a passenger ferry that ran aground in waters off western South Korea, according to the coast guard.

The coast guard announced that all passengers and crew members were rescued at 11:27 p.m. local time (1427 GMT) while three of them sustained minor injuries.

Twenty-one crew members remained onboard, while the rescued passengers will be transported to the southwestern port city of Mokpo.

It was reported to the coast guard around 8:17 p.m. local time (1117 GMT) that the 26,546-ton ferry went aground in waters near an island of Sinan county, about 310 km southwest of the capital Seoul.

The ferry, which had left the southern resort island of Jeju, was heading to Mokpo. The vessel ran onto a submerged rock while approaching the island.

A breach was discovered at the bow of the ferry, but no flooding occurred, according to Yonhap news agency.

Some passengers reported the situation in real time through their social media, saying they were instructed through a public announcement to wear life vests and move to the top deck after the vessel tilted with a loud bang.

The coast guard mobilized 17 patrol vessels, four coastal rescue boats, one aircraft, and a special rescue team.

The passengers transferred to the patrol vessels through the ramp at the stern of the ferry, which is used for loading vehicles, rather than using a ladder. A total of 118 vehicles were loaded onto the ferry.

South Korean President Lee Jae-myung, currently on a state visit to the United Arab Emirates, gave orders to swiftly handle the accident for no casualties and publicly disclose rescue situations in real time.

Prime Minister Kim Min-seok ordered the coast guard and relevant authorities to immediately deploy all available vessels and equipment for the rapid and safe rescue of all passengers. 
TOKYO, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A Japanese court on Wednesday ordered the government to pay around 3.9 billion yen (25 million U.S. dollars) in damages to residents around Atsugi air base near Tokyo for health hazards and psychological distress due to noise, local media reported.

Presiding Judge Nobuhiro Okada at the Yokohama District Court said the jarring noise "caused damage that exceeded what could be tolerated in social life" in the case brought by around 8,000 nearby residents and others regarding the Naval Air Facility Atsugi in Kanagawa Prefecture, Kyodo News reported.

Okada acknowledged that the use of the base, straddling the densely populated cities of Ayase and Yamato, has affected the lives of the residents for a long period of time and amounts to a rights violation, the report said.

An official from the Defense Ministry's regional bureau said it would "act accordingly with relevant agencies regarding our next steps."

A series of lawsuits have been filed over noise pollution issues at the base, jointly used by the Japanese Self-Defense Forces and the U.S. military, since 1976. 
Shares of Oracle Power plc (LON:ORCP  Get Free Report) traded up 8.3% on Tuesday . The stock traded as high as GBX 0.04 and last traded at GBX 0.04. 265,579,844 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 14% from the average session volume of 232,655,141 shares. The stock had previously closed at GBX 0.04.

Oracle Power Stock Up 8.3%

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 9.98, a current ratio of 3.74 and a quick ratio of 5.67. The firm has a market capitalization of 6.13 million, a P/E ratio of -19.50 and a beta of 1.44. The firms fifty day moving average price is GBX 0.04 and its 200-day moving average price is GBX 0.02.

Oracle Power Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Oracle Power Plc (AIM: ORCP) is an international project developer in the natural resources and energy sectors. The Company is currently committed to two areas of focus: Western Australia, home to two of Oracles highly prospective gold projects, and Pakistan, where it is working to establish one of the largest hydrogen production facilities in the region.

Located in the wind corridor in Jhimpir, Pakistan, The Green Hydrogen project is being developed on a fast-track basis thanks to the joint venture (JV) formed between Oracle and His Highness Shaikh Ahmed Dalmook Al Maktoum (through his wholly owned company, Kaheel Energy Limited).

The JV intends to support the global transition to a carbon neutral future through establishing Pakistan as one of the main Green Hydrogen players in the region, to meet global demand for clean hydrogen forecasted to be 660 million metric tons in 2050.

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Members of the coast guard conduct rescue work after a passenger ferry ran aground in waters off western South Korea, Nov. 19, 2025. A passenger ferry carrying 267 people on Wednesday ran aground in waters off western South Korea, according to Yonhap news agency. (Xinhua)

SEOUL, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- A passenger ferry carrying 267 people on Wednesday ran aground in waters off western South Korea, according to Yonhap news agency.

It was reported to the coast guard around 8:17 p.m. local time (1117 GMT) that the ferry with 246 passengers and 21 crew members on board went aground in waters near an island of Sinan county, about 310 km southwest of the capital Seoul.

The ferry, which had left the southern resort island of Jeju, was heading to the southwestern port city of Mokpo.

The vessel allegedly ran onto a submerged rock while approaching the island.

The coast guard, which dispatched patrol boats to the scene, expected no casualties as no flooding was found from the grounded ferry. 
Traub Capital Management LLC bought a new stake in shares of Aptiv PLC (NYSE:APTV  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor bought 3,873 shares of the auto parts companys stock, valued at approximately $264,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its position in Aptiv by 242.7% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 8,560,781 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $509,366,000 after purchasing an additional 6,062,438 shares in the last quarter. Boston Partners acquired a new stake in shares of Aptiv during the 2nd quarter worth about $220,441,000. Pacer Advisors Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Aptiv by 5,379.7% during the first quarter. Pacer Advisors Inc. now owns 1,907,379 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $113,489,000 after buying an additional 1,872,571 shares in the last quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. raised its position in shares of Aptiv by 53.6% in the first quarter. Alliancebernstein L.P. now owns 3,515,617 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $209,179,000 after buying an additional 1,227,020 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC acquired a new stake in Aptiv during the first quarter worth approximately $47,825,000. 94.21% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Aptiv

In related news, CAO Allan J. Brazier sold 1,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.00, for a total value of $85,000.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 49,820 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,234,700. The trade was a 1.97% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Company insiders own 0.45% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

APTV has been the subject of several analyst reports. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their target price on Aptiv from $106.00 to $100.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Daiwa Capital Markets increased their price target on shares of Aptiv from $79.00 to $100.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price target on shares of Aptiv from $90.00 to $105.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Cowen restated a buy rating on shares of Aptiv in a report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, Bank of America lifted their target price on Aptiv from $85.00 to $95.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, September 10th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have assigned a Buy rating, six have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $94.79.

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Aptiv Trading Down 1.3%

Shares of APTV opened at $75.85 on Wednesday. Aptiv PLC has a 12 month low of $47.19 and a 12 month high of $88.80. The stocks 50-day moving average is $83.67 and its two-hundred day moving average is $74.86. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 1.79 and a quick ratio of 1.26. The stock has a market cap of $16.39 billion, a PE ratio of 60.20, a P/E/G ratio of 0.79 and a beta of 1.58.

Aptiv (NYSE:APTV  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The auto parts company reported $2.17 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.81 by $0.36. The business had revenue of $5.21 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.05 billion. Aptiv had a return on equity of 18.51% and a net margin of 1.46%.The companys revenue was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the business posted $1.83 EPS. Aptiv has set its FY 2025 guidance at 7.550-7.850 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 1.600-1.900 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Aptiv PLC will post 7.2 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Aptiv Profile

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Aptiv PLC engages in design, manufacture, and sale of vehicle components in North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, South America, and internationally. The company provides electrical, electronic, and safety technology solutions to the automotive and commercial vehicle markets. It operates through two segments, Signal and Power Solutions, and Advanced Safety and User Experience.

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Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new position in shares of Teekay Tankers Ltd. (NYSE:TNK  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The firm acquired 5,120 shares of the shipping companys stock, valued at approximately $214,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the business. Encompass Capital Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Teekay Tankers during the first quarter worth about $17,210,000. Pacer Advisors Inc. acquired a new position in Teekay Tankers in the 1st quarter valued at about $11,986,000. Nuveen LLC purchased a new stake in Teekay Tankers during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $8,702,000. Oxbow Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in Teekay Tankers during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $4,074,000. Finally, Millennium Management LLC lifted its position in Teekay Tankers by 24.9% during the 1st quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 254,641 shares of the shipping companys stock worth $9,745,000 after acquiring an additional 50,815 shares during the period. 52.67% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on TNK shares. Clarkson Capital upgraded Teekay Tankers to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research raised shares of Teekay Tankers from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 8th. Evercore ISI raised their target price on shares of Teekay Tankers from $53.00 to $60.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Teekay Tankers in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group increased their price target on shares of Teekay Tankers from $66.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have assigned a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $65.00.

Teekay Tankers Trading Up 0.8%

TNK stock opened at $63.01 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $55.47 and a 200-day moving average of $48.93. The company has a market cap of $2.17 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 7.00 and a beta of -0.11. Teekay Tankers Ltd. has a 12-month low of $33.35 and a 12-month high of $63.30.

Teekay Tankers (NYSE:TNK  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The shipping company reported $1.54 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.50 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $115.21 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $133.65 million. Teekay Tankers had a return on equity of 10.81% and a net margin of 32.87%.The companys revenue was down 16.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm posted $0.23 EPS. Sell-side analysts forecast that Teekay Tankers Ltd. will post 7.13 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Teekay Tankers Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 21st. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 10th will be given a $0.25 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. This represents a $1.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. Teekay Tankerss dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 11.11%.

Teekay Tankers Profile

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Teekay Tankers Ltd. provides crude oil and other marine transportation services to oil industries in Bermuda and internationally. The company offers voyage and time charter services; offshore ship-to-ship transfer services of commodities primarily crude oil and refined oil products; and tanker commercial and technical management services.

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Empirical Finance LLC increased its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 0.7% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 60,696 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after buying an additional 395 shares during the period. Empirical Finance LLCs holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $8,255,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Tortoise Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 10.7% in the 2nd quarter. Tortoise Investment Management LLC now owns 795 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $108,000 after purchasing an additional 77 shares in the last quarter. FF Advisors LLC grew its position in Abbott Laboratories by 4.3% during the second quarter. FF Advisors LLC now owns 1,904 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $259,000 after buying an additional 79 shares during the period. Charles Schwab Trust Co increased its holdings in Abbott Laboratories by 0.6% in the second quarter. Charles Schwab Trust Co now owns 14,018 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $1,907,000 after buying an additional 79 shares in the last quarter. Bridgewater Advisors Inc. lifted its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Bridgewater Advisors Inc. now owns 12,555 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $1,607,000 after acquiring an additional 79 shares during the period. Finally, Opes Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 2.9% during the 1st quarter. Opes Wealth Management LLC now owns 2,854 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $379,000 after acquiring an additional 80 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 75.18% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

ABT has been the subject of several research analyst reports. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Abbott Laboratories in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Daiwa Capital Markets raised their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $134.00 to $136.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $149.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Wells Fargo & Company raised their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $142.00 to $146.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Raymond James Financial lifted their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $141.00 to $146.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have given a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $147.00.

Abbott Laboratories Trading Up 0.0%

Abbott Laboratories stock opened at $130.08 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $226.19 billion, a PE ratio of 16.30, a P/E/G ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a current ratio of 1.82, a quick ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The stock has a 50-day moving average price of $130.30 and a 200 day moving average price of $131.33. Abbott Laboratories has a 52 week low of $110.86 and a 52 week high of $141.23.

Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.30 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of $1.30. The company had revenue of $11.37 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.40 billion. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 31.88% and a return on equity of 17.78%. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 6.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company earned $1.21 EPS. Abbott Laboratories has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.120-5.180 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Abbott Laboratories Announces Dividend

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 17th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, October 15th were issued a $0.59 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, October 15th. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a yield of 1.8%. Abbott Laboratoriess payout ratio is 29.57%.

About Abbott Laboratories

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon.

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Amentum Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:AMTM  Get Free Report) was the target of unusually large options trading on Wednesday. Stock investors bought 17,448 call options on the stock. This represents an increase of approximately 2,020% compared to the average daily volume of 823 call options.

Amentum Price Performance

Shares of AMTM stock traded up $3.20 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $24.99. 5,269,103 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,050,288. Amentum has a 12-month low of $16.01 and a 12-month high of $26.63. The company has a market capitalization of $6.08 billion, a PE ratio of 63.99, a PEG ratio of 0.71 and a beta of 0.23. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $22.99 and its 200-day simple moving average is $23.29. The company has a current ratio of 1.58, a quick ratio of 1.58 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97.

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Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp bought a new stake in Amentum in the 2nd quarter worth $25,000. Blue Trust Inc. increased its holdings in Amentum by 116.5% during the 3rd quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,204 shares of the companys stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 648 shares during the period. Quarry LP purchased a new stake in Amentum in the 1st quarter worth approximately $30,000. Signaturefd LLC grew its position in shares of Amentum by 108.0% in the 1st quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 1,764 shares of the companys stock worth $32,000 after buying an additional 916 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Mather Group LLC. purchased a new position in shares of Amentum during the third quarter valued at approximately $32,000. 39.93% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts recently commented on AMTM shares. Bank of America boosted their price objective on shares of Amentum from $26.00 to $27.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Truist Financial increased their price objective on Amentum from $24.00 to $30.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, July 24th. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $30.00 target price on shares of Amentum in a research report on Monday, August 18th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d+) rating on shares of Amentum in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. started coverage on shares of Amentum in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. They issued a neutral rating and a $30.00 price objective on the stock. Six equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $28.25.

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Amentum Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Amentum Holdings, Inc provides engineering and technology solutions to address challenges in science, security, and sustainability. It serves various markets, such as energy and environment, space, intelligence, defense, civilian, commercial, and international markets. The company was incorporated in 2010 and is headquatered in Chantilly, Virginia.

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American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE:AEO  Get Free Report) had its price objective boosted by equities researchers at UBS Group from $21.50 to $22.00 in a report issued on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The firm presently has a buy rating on the apparel retailers stock. UBS Groups target price indicates a potential upside of 22.87% from the stocks previous close.

AEO has been the topic of a number of other reports. Bank of America restated an underperform rating and issued a $10.00 price target (down from $11.00) on shares of American Eagle Outfitters in a research note on Monday, August 25th. Morgan Stanley lifted their target price on American Eagle Outfitters from $10.00 to $17.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Thursday, September 18th. BTIG Research began coverage on shares of American Eagle Outfitters in a research report on Thursday, September 18th. They set a neutral rating on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price target on American Eagle Outfitters from $11.00 to $17.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Thursday, September 4th. Finally, Zacks Research raised American Eagle Outfitters from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Buy rating, nine have issued a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, American Eagle Outfitters currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $15.11.

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Read Our Latest Report on AEO

American Eagle Outfitters Price Performance

AEO stock traded up $0.41 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, reaching $17.91. The companys stock had a trading volume of 352,997 shares, compared to its average volume of 8,948,221. American Eagle Outfitters has a fifty-two week low of $9.27 and a fifty-two week high of $20.55. The stock has a market cap of $3.03 billion, a PE ratio of 17.21 and a beta of 1.59. The companys 50 day moving average is $17.06 and its two-hundred day moving average is $13.44. The company has a current ratio of 1.62, a quick ratio of 0.71 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.13.

American Eagle Outfitters (NYSE:AEO  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, September 3rd. The apparel retailer reported $0.45 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.20 by $0.25. American Eagle Outfitters had a return on equity of 13.67% and a net margin of 3.74%.The company had revenue of $1.28 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.23 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $0.39 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down .6% compared to the same quarter last year. Equities research analysts expect that American Eagle Outfitters will post 1.7 EPS for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other American Eagle Outfitters news, Director Noel Joseph Spiegel sold 40,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, September 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $18.12, for a total value of $724,800.00. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director Janice E. Page sold 26,869 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, September 8th. The stock was sold at an average price of $18.04, for a total value of $484,716.76. Following the sale, the director owned 90,383 shares in the company, valued at $1,630,509.32. This trade represents a 22.92% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 138,766 shares of company stock valued at $2,515,354. 8.70% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On American Eagle Outfitters

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Raymond James Financial Inc. acquired a new position in shares of American Eagle Outfitters during the 2nd quarter valued at about $35,000. Strs Ohio acquired a new position in American Eagle Outfitters during the third quarter worth approximately $36,000. Federated Hermes Inc. increased its position in American Eagle Outfitters by 151.0% during the second quarter. Federated Hermes Inc. now owns 3,848 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $37,000 after purchasing an additional 2,315 shares during the last quarter. McIlrath & Eck LLC acquired a new position in shares of American Eagle Outfitters in the 3rd quarter valued at $39,000. Finally, Larson Financial Group LLC increased its holdings in shares of American Eagle Outfitters by 8,432.1% during the 3rd quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 2,389 shares of the apparel retailers stock worth $41,000 after buying an additional 2,361 shares during the last quarter. 97.33% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

American Eagle Outfitters Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc operates as a multi-brand specialty retailer in the United States and internationally. The company provides jeans, apparel and accessories, and personal care products for women and men under the American Eagle brand; and intimates, apparel, activewear, and swim collections under the Aerie and OFFLINE by Aerie brands.

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Rayonier (NYSE: RYN) has recently received a number of price target changes and ratings updates:

11/17/2025  Rayonier had its hold (c-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/12/2025  Rayonier had its price target lowered by analysts at Citigroup Inc. from $27.00 to $24.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock.

11/11/2025  Rayonier had its hold (c-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/5/2025  Rayonier had its hold (c-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

10/14/2025  Rayonier had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

9/27/2025  Rayonier had its hold (c-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

Rayonier Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be issued a $0.2725 dividend. This represents a $1.09 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.1%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 10th. Rayoniers dividend payout ratio is presently 21.63%.

Rayonier is a leading timberland real estate investment trust with assets located in some of the most productive softwood timber growing regions in the United States and New Zealand. As of December 31, 2023, Rayonier owned or leased under long-term agreements approximately 2.7 million acres of timberlands located in the U.S.

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Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy by the nineteen analysts that are presently covering the company, MarketBeat Ratings reports. Nine analysts have rated the stock with a hold rating, seven have given a buy rating and three have issued a strong buy rating on the company. The average twelve-month price objective among analysts that have issued ratings on the stock in the last year is $168.2308.

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on MS shares. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on Morgan Stanley from $165.00 to $175.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. UBS Group raised their price target on Morgan Stanley from $156.00 to $165.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. BMO Capital Markets started coverage on Morgan Stanley in a report on Friday, October 3rd. They set an outperform rating and a $180.00 price objective for the company. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their price objective on shares of Morgan Stanley from $176.00 to $184.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded shares of Morgan Stanley from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on MS

Insiders Place Their Bets

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Morgan Stanley

In other Morgan Stanley news, CEO Edward Pick sold 100,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Friday, October 31st. The stock was sold at an average price of $164.34, for a total transaction of $16,434,000.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 574,986 shares in the company, valued at $94,493,199.24. This trade represents a 14.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink . 0.19% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Several institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the company. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC raised its stake in shares of Morgan Stanley by 645.8% during the second quarter. Princeton Global Asset Management LLC now owns 179 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after acquiring an additional 155 shares in the last quarter. Greykasell Wealth Strategies Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Morgan Stanley by 65.2% during the 3rd quarter. Greykasell Wealth Strategies Inc. now owns 185 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $29,000 after purchasing an additional 73 shares during the last quarter. WFA of San Diego LLC bought a new position in shares of Morgan Stanley during the 2nd quarter valued at $28,000. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC raised its position in Morgan Stanley by 111.0% in the 1st quarter. CBIZ Investment Advisory Services LLC now owns 211 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $25,000 after purchasing an additional 111 shares during the period. Finally, Family Legacy Financial Solutions LLC lifted its stake in Morgan Stanley by 91.9% in the third quarter. Family Legacy Financial Solutions LLC now owns 213 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the last quarter. 84.19% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

Morgan Stanley Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:MS opened at $159.83 on Friday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $160.16 and a 200 day moving average of $145.77. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.78 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 3.30. The stock has a market cap of $254.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 16.39, a P/E/G ratio of 1.70 and a beta of 1.33. Morgan Stanley has a 12 month low of $94.33 and a 12 month high of $171.77.

Morgan Stanley (NYSE:MS  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $2.80 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.07 by $0.73. The business had revenue of $17.98 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $16.42 billion. Morgan Stanley had a net margin of 13.85% and a return on equity of 16.55%. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 18.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.88 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts forecast that Morgan Stanley will post 8.56 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Morgan Stanley Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 31st were issued a dividend of $1.00 per share. This represents a $4.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.5%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 31st. Morgan Stanleys payout ratio is currently 41.03%.

About Morgan Stanley

(Get Free Report)

Morgan Stanley, a financial holding company, provides various financial products and services to corporations, governments, financial institutions, and individuals in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Asia. It operates through Institutional Securities, Wealth Management, and Investment Management segments.

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Aptiv (NYSE:APTV  Get Free Report)s stock had its outperform rating restated by Royal Bank Of Canada in a note issued to investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. They presently have a $101.00 price objective on the auto parts companys stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas price objective suggests a potential upside of 39.16% from the companys current price.

APTV has been the subject of a number of other reports. Citigroup assumed coverage on Aptiv in a research note on Friday, October 10th. They issued a buy rating and a $109.00 price target for the company. Robert W. Baird upped their target price on Aptiv from $97.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Cowen reissued a buy rating on shares of Aptiv in a report on Friday, October 31st. UBS Group boosted their target price on shares of Aptiv from $75.00 to $94.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of Aptiv from a buy rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, September 23rd. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $94.79.

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View Our Latest Research Report on Aptiv

Aptiv Trading Down 4.2%

Shares of APTV stock traded down $3.19 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching $72.58. 786,872 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 2,757,273. The firm has a market capitalization of $15.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 57.60, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.79 and a beta of 1.58. The companys 50-day moving average price is $83.67 and its 200-day moving average price is $74.86. Aptiv has a 12-month low of $47.19 and a 12-month high of $88.80. The company has a current ratio of 1.79, a quick ratio of 1.26 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.80.

Aptiv (NYSE:APTV  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The auto parts company reported $2.17 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.81 by $0.36. The firm had revenue of $5.21 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.05 billion. Aptiv had a return on equity of 18.51% and a net margin of 1.46%.Aptivs quarterly revenue was up 7.4% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.83 earnings per share. Aptiv has set its FY 2025 guidance at 7.550-7.850 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 1.600-1.900 EPS. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that Aptiv will post 7.2 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Transactions at Aptiv

In other Aptiv news, CAO Allan J. Brazier sold 1,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $85.00, for a total value of $85,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 49,820 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,234,700. This represents a 1.97% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. Insiders own 0.45% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Aptiv

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. True Wealth Design LLC lifted its stake in Aptiv by 31.5% in the third quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 522 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $45,000 after buying an additional 125 shares during the period. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC lifted its stake in shares of Aptiv by 2.3% in the third quarter. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC now owns 6,776 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $584,000 after buying an additional 151 shares in the last quarter. Stephens Inc. AR boosted its stake in Aptiv by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. Stephens Inc. AR now owns 4,096 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $279,000 after purchasing an additional 155 shares during the last quarter. Gamco Investors INC. ET AL boosted its position in shares of Aptiv by 1.7% during the first quarter. Gamco Investors INC. ET AL now owns 9,760 shares of the auto parts companys stock valued at $581,000 after buying an additional 160 shares during the last quarter. Finally, CI Investments Inc. grew its stake in shares of Aptiv by 11.6% in the 3rd quarter. CI Investments Inc. now owns 1,564 shares of the auto parts companys stock worth $135,000 after acquiring an additional 163 shares in the last quarter. 94.21% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

Aptiv Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Aptiv PLC engages in design, manufacture, and sale of vehicle components in North America, Europe, Middle East, Africa, the Asia Pacific, South America, and internationally. The company provides electrical, electronic, and safety technology solutions to the automotive and commercial vehicle markets. It operates through two segments, Signal and Power Solutions, and Advanced Safety and User Experience.

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Corteva (NYSE:CTVA  Get Free Report) had its price objective hoisted by equities research analysts at BNP Paribas Exane from $70.00 to $72.00 in a report issued on Monday,MarketScreener reports. The firm presently has a neutral rating on the stock. BNP Paribas Exanes target price suggests a potential upside of 11.65% from the stocks current price.

Other equities research analysts also recently issued reports about the stock. Argus reduced their price objective on shares of Corteva from $83.00 to $80.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 13th. Morgan Stanley set a $84.00 price objective on shares of Corteva in a research note on Monday, September 15th. UBS Group cut their target price on Corteva from $85.00 to $81.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Mizuho decreased their price target on Corteva from $85.00 to $78.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group reduced their price objective on Corteva from $92.00 to $85.00 in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Fifteen investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $78.05.

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Corteva Trading Down 0.0%

Shares of CTVA stock opened at $64.49 on Monday. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $65.36 and a 200 day simple moving average of $69.68. Corteva has a 1 year low of $53.40 and a 1 year high of $77.41. The company has a current ratio of 1.58, a quick ratio of 1.07 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.07. The stock has a market cap of $43.57 billion, a P/E ratio of 27.43, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.46 and a beta of 0.81.

Corteva (NYSE:CTVA  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported ($0.23) earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of ($0.49) by $0.26. The firm had revenue of $2.62 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.47 billion. Corteva had a return on equity of 9.37% and a net margin of 9.19%.The companys revenue was up 6.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted ($0.49) EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Corteva will post 2.96 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Corteva news, EVP Robert D. King sold 37,280 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, August 29th. The shares were sold at an average price of $74.20, for a total transaction of $2,766,176.00. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 49,262 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,655,240.40. The trade was a 43.08% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this link. 0.15% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Corteva

Large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. Peak Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new position in Corteva during the 2nd quarter worth $505,000. Cary Street Partners Financial LLC boosted its holdings in Corteva by 20.7% during the first quarter. Cary Street Partners Financial LLC now owns 90,206 shares of the companys stock worth $5,677,000 after purchasing an additional 15,448 shares during the last quarter. PGGM Investments boosted its holdings in Corteva by 68.5% during the second quarter. PGGM Investments now owns 1,223,444 shares of the companys stock worth $91,183,000 after purchasing an additional 497,200 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its position in Corteva by 28.6% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 2,851,993 shares of the companys stock worth $179,476,000 after purchasing an additional 634,938 shares in the last quarter. Finally, S.E.E.D. Planning Group LLC increased its stake in Corteva by 70.3% in the 2nd quarter. S.E.E.D. Planning Group LLC now owns 164,393 shares of the companys stock valued at $12,252,000 after buying an additional 67,869 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 81.54% of the companys stock.

Corteva Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Corteva, Inc operates in the agriculture business. It operates through two segments, Seed and Crop Protection. The Seed segment develops and supplies advanced germplasm and traits that produce optimum yield for farms. It offers trait technologies that enhance resistance to weather, disease, insects, and herbicides used to control weeds, as well as food and nutritional characteristics.

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State Street Corporation (NYSE:STT  Get Free Report) has been assigned a consensus recommendation of Moderate Buy from the seventeen brokerages that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating, three have assigned a hold rating, eleven have assigned a buy rating and two have assigned a strong buy rating to the company. The average twelve-month price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $125.9167.

Several brokerages have issued reports on STT. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of State Street in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. TD Cowen began coverage on shares of State Street in a research note on Thursday, September 25th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on shares of State Street from $117.00 to $128.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. The Goldman Sachs Group upped their target price on State Street from $109.00 to $130.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Monday, October 6th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on State Street from $121.00 to $129.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th.

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View Our Latest Stock Analysis on STT

Insider Transactions at State Street

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

In other State Street news, EVP Michael L. Richards sold 1,500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, October 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $117.24, for a total value of $175,860.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 38,626 shares in the company, valued at approximately $4,528,512.24. The trade was a 3.74% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website . 0.29% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of STT. JPL Wealth Management LLC purchased a new position in State Street in the third quarter worth $29,000. True Wealth Design LLC boosted its position in shares of State Street by 166.3% in the 3rd quarter. True Wealth Design LLC now owns 253 shares of the asset managers stock worth $29,000 after purchasing an additional 158 shares in the last quarter. Capital Analysts LLC grew its stake in State Street by 3,914.3% during the 1st quarter. Capital Analysts LLC now owns 281 shares of the asset managers stock worth $25,000 after buying an additional 274 shares during the last quarter. Flagship Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in State Street during the 3rd quarter valued at about $35,000. Finally, Measured Wealth Private Client Group LLC acquired a new position in State Street during the 3rd quarter valued at about $35,000. Institutional investors own 87.44% of the companys stock.

State Street Trading Up 0.4%

STT opened at $113.30 on Friday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.57, a current ratio of 0.59 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.03. The stocks fifty day moving average is $115.14 and its two-hundred day moving average is $108.68. The company has a market capitalization of $31.65 billion, a P/E ratio of 11.99, a PEG ratio of 1.24 and a beta of 1.47. State Street has a 52 week low of $72.81 and a 52 week high of $122.69.

State Street (NYSE:STT  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 17th. The asset manager reported $2.78 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.57 by $0.21. The business had revenue of $3.55 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $3.43 billion. State Street had a return on equity of 13.37% and a net margin of 13.14%.The businesss revenue was up 8.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $2.26 EPS. Analysts forecast that State Street will post 9.68 earnings per share for the current year.

About State Street

(Get Free Report)

State Street Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of financial products and services to institutional investors worldwide. The company offers investment servicing products and services, including custody, accounting, regulatory reporting, investor, and performance and analytics; middle office products, such as IBOR, transaction management, loans, cash, derivatives and collateral, record keeping, and client reporting and investment analytics; finance leasing; foreign exchange, and brokerage and other trading services; securities finance and enhanced custody products; deposit and short-term investment facilities; investment manager and alternative investment manager operations outsourcing; performance, risk, and compliance analytics; and financial data management to support institutional investors.

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YANGON, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Myanmar received over 809,000 foreign tourists during the first 10 months of 2025, the Ministry of Hotels and Tourism said on Wednesday.

This year's foreign tourist arrivals between January and October are lower compared to about 890,000 foreign tourists who visited the country during the same period in 2024, U Myo Win Nyunt, deputy permanent secretary of the ministry, told Xinhua.

The majority of tourists during this period came from China, Thailand and South Korea, the official said.

In 2024, Myanmar welcomed over 1.06 million foreign tourists, according to the ministry. 
Manolete Partners (LON:MANO  Get Free Report) had its price objective dropped by analysts at Canaccord Genuity Group from GBX 172 to GBX 130 in a report issued on Wednesday,Digital Look reports. The firm currently has a buy rating on the stock. Canaccord Genuity Groups price target points to a potential upside of 83.10% from the companys current price.

Manolete Partners Stock Performance

Shares of MANO traded down GBX 19 during mid-day trading on Wednesday, hitting GBX 71. The stock had a trading volume of 460,030 shares, compared to its average volume of 75,572. Manolete Partners has a fifty-two week low of GBX 65 and a fifty-two week high of GBX 118. The company has a quick ratio of 6.25, a current ratio of 4.92 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 33.92. The company has a market cap of 31.11 million, a PE ratio of 35.32 and a beta of 0.77. The companys fifty day simple moving average is GBX 90.51 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is GBX 88.32.

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Manolete Partners (LON:MANO  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 19th. The company reported GBX (1.09) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Manolete Partners had a net margin of 180.12% and a return on equity of 109.76%. On average, equities analysts expect that Manolete Partners will post 4.2845258 earnings per share for the current year.

About Manolete Partners

Manolete Partners Plc is the UKs leading insolvency litigation financing company which was founded in 2009 by its Chief Executive, Steven Cooklin, a UK Chartered Accountant.

Manolete finances the pursuit of claims through litigation and alternative dispute resolution to produce optimal returns for the creditors of insolvent companies.

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Cetera Investment Advisers boosted its holdings in L3Harris Technologies Inc (NYSE:LHX  Free Report) by 2.3% during the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 91,243 shares of the companys stock after purchasing an additional 2,039 shares during the period. Cetera Investment Advisers holdings in L3Harris Technologies were worth $22,887,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in LHX. Clearstead Trust LLC acquired a new stake in L3Harris Technologies during the first quarter valued at approximately $26,000. Nova Wealth Management Inc. acquired a new position in shares of L3Harris Technologies in the 1st quarter worth approximately $26,000. Kiker Wealth Management LLC lifted its position in shares of L3Harris Technologies by 137.0% during the 2nd quarter. Kiker Wealth Management LLC now owns 109 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after buying an additional 63 shares during the period. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. bought a new position in shares of L3Harris Technologies during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $32,000. Finally, Independence Bank of Kentucky boosted its stake in L3Harris Technologies by 44.4% in the 2nd quarter. Independence Bank of Kentucky now owns 130 shares of the companys stock valued at $33,000 after buying an additional 40 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 84.76% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

Several research analysts have issued reports on LHX shares. Robert W. Baird increased their price objective on L3Harris Technologies from $274.00 to $320.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Friday, July 25th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating on shares of L3Harris Technologies in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of L3Harris Technologies from $302.00 to $353.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of L3Harris Technologies from $250.00 to $350.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Finally, UBS Group lifted their target price on shares of L3Harris Technologies from $318.00 to $323.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Twelve equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, L3Harris Technologies has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $295.29.

Insider Buying and Selling at L3Harris Technologies

In related news, CEO Christopher E. Kubasik sold 14,171 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $301.05, for a total value of $4,266,179.55. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 144,426 shares in the company, valued at $43,479,447.30. The trade was a 8.94% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 0.72% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

L3Harris Technologies Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:LHX opened at $285.48 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $290.76 and a 200-day moving average of $268.09. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57, a quick ratio of 0.87 and a current ratio of 1.04. L3Harris Technologies Inc has a twelve month low of $193.09 and a twelve month high of $308.12. The firm has a market cap of $53.40 billion, a PE ratio of 31.90, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.09 and a beta of 0.75.

L3Harris Technologies (NYSE:LHX  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $2.70 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.60 by $0.10. L3Harris Technologies had a net margin of 7.94% and a return on equity of 11.82%. The business had revenue of $5.66 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $5.51 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $3.34 EPS. The firms quarterly revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. L3Harris Technologies has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.500-10.700 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that L3Harris Technologies Inc will post 11.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

L3Harris Technologies Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 5th. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $1.20 per share. This represents a $4.80 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. L3Harris Technologiess dividend payout ratio is 51.56%.

L3Harris Technologies Company Profile

(Free Report)

L3Harris Technologies, Inc provides mission-critical solutions for government and commercial customers worldwide. The company's Integrated Mission Systems segment provides intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) systems, passive sensing and targeting, electronic attack, autonomy, power and communications, and networks and sensors, as well as advanced combat systems for air, land, and sea sectors.

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Shares of China Construction Bank Corp. (OTCMKTS:CICHY  Get Free Report) gapped down prior to trading on Wednesday . The stock had previously closed at $20.96, but opened at $20.07. China Construction Bank shares last traded at $20.89, with a volume of 14,630 shares traded.

China Construction Bank Trading Down 0.5%

The company has a quick ratio of 0.95, a current ratio of 0.95 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.85. The stocks 50 day moving average is $19.90 and its two-hundred day moving average is $19.66. The company has a market capitalization of $260.76 billion, a PE ratio of 5.79 and a beta of 0.20.

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China Construction Bank (OTCMKTS:CICHY  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $0.98 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.94 by $0.04. China Construction Bank had a return on equity of 10.06% and a net margin of 24.99%.The firm had revenue of $24.56 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $24.44 billion.

About China Construction Bank

China Construction Bank Corporation provides various banking and related financial services to individuals and corporate customers in the People's Republic of China and internationally. It operates through Corporate Finance Business, Personal Finance Business, Treasury and Asset Management Business, and Others segments.

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Several brokerages have updated their recommendations and price targets on shares of Colgate-Palmolive (NYSE: CL) in the last few weeks:

11/4/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Barclays PLC from $82.00 to $80.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Evercore ISI from $100.00 to $94.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Morgan Stanley from $96.00 to $87.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Citigroup Inc. from $105.00 to $95.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at UBS Group AG from $92.00 to $90.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $88.00 to $87.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

11/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $80.00 to $77.00. They now have an underweight rating on the stock.

10/20/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Raymond James Financial, Inc. from $105.00 to $95.00. They now have an outperform rating on the stock.

10/10/2025  Colgate-Palmolive was given a new $86.00 price target on by analysts at Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft.

10/10/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at JPMorgan Chase & Co. from $95.00 to $88.00. They now have an overweight rating on the stock.

10/8/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at UBS Group AG from $99.00 to $92.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

10/8/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Bank of America Corporation from $98.00 to $88.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

10/8/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

10/3/2025  Colgate-Palmolive is now covered by analysts at Piper Sandler. They set a neutral rating and a $84.00 price target on the stock.

10/2/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. from $106.00 to $91.00. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

10/1/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Barclays PLC from $87.00 to $82.00. They now have an equal weight rating on the stock.

9/27/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

9/25/2025  Colgate-Palmolive had its price target lowered by analysts at Wells Fargo & Company from $83.00 to $80.00. They now have an underweight rating on the stock.

Colgate-Palmolive Announces Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 17th were paid a dividend of $0.52 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 17th. This represents a $2.08 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.6%. Colgate-Palmolives dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 58.26%.

Colgate-Palmolive Company, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures and sells consumer products in the United States and internationally. It operates through two segments: Oral, Personal and Home Care; and Pet Nutrition. The Oral, Personal and Home Care segment offers toothpaste, toothbrushes, mouthwash, bar and liquid hand soaps, shower gels, shampoos, conditioners, deodorants and antiperspirants, skin health products, dishwashing detergents, fabric conditioners, household cleaners, and other related items.

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Copperleaf Capital LLC lessened its stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (BATS:EFG  Free Report) by 4.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 18,751 shares of the companys stock after selling 901 shares during the period. iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF accounts for approximately 1.1% of Copperleaf Capital LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 22nd largest holding. Copperleaf Capital LLCs holdings in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF were worth $2,100,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other large investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in EFG. Rice Partnership LLC bought a new stake in shares of iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the 2nd quarter valued at about $28,000. Pandora Wealth Inc. purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the second quarter valued at approximately $28,000. AlphaCore Capital LLC purchased a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF during the first quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Harbor Asset Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the second quarter valued at approximately $35,000. Finally, West Financial Advisors LLC purchased a new position in iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF in the second quarter worth $43,000.

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iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Trading Up 16.0%

Shares of EFG stock opened at $111.47 on Wednesday. iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF has a 12-month low of $88.66 and a 12-month high of $113.16. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $114.91 and its 200-day simple moving average is $111.76. The company has a market cap of $13.11 billion, a PE ratio of 24.98 and a beta of 0.96.

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF Profile

iShares MSCI EAFE Growth ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI EAFE Growth Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of the MSCI EAFE Growth Index (the Index). The Index is a subset of the MSCI EAFE Index and constituents of the Index include securities from Europe, Australasia (Australia and Asia), and the Far East.

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Creative Planning increased its stake in shares of Delta Air Lines, Inc. (NYSE:DAL  Free Report) by 15.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 223,851 shares of the transportation companys stock after buying an additional 30,371 shares during the quarter. Creative Plannings holdings in Delta Air Lines were worth $11,009,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in DAL. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its stake in Delta Air Lines by 9.1% during the 2nd quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 160,140 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $7,876,000 after purchasing an additional 13,406 shares during the last quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC raised its stake in shares of Delta Air Lines by 2.6% in the second quarter. Foundations Investment Advisors LLC now owns 7,844 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $386,000 after purchasing an additional 196 shares during the last quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA lifted its holdings in shares of Delta Air Lines by 5.0% during the second quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 3,451,418 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $169,741,000 after purchasing an additional 164,706 shares during the period. Islay Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in Delta Air Lines in the second quarter valued at approximately $1,028,000. Finally, Fiera Capital Corp increased its holdings in Delta Air Lines by 18.8% in the 2nd quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 166,943 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $8,210,000 after buying an additional 26,461 shares during the period. 69.93% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Delta Air Lines Price Performance

NYSE:DAL opened at $57.12 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.68, a current ratio of 0.40 and a quick ratio of 0.34. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $58.68 and a 200-day moving average price of $55.11. Delta Air Lines, Inc. has a 1-year low of $34.74 and a 1-year high of $69.98. The firm has a market cap of $37.30 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.04, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.35 and a beta of 1.52.

Delta Air Lines Dividend Announcement

Delta Air Lines ( NYSE:DAL Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, March 15th. The transportation company reported $0.22 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. Delta Air Lines had a net margin of 7.36% and a return on equity of 23.83%. The firm had revenue of $8.40 billion for the quarter. Equities research analysts forecast that Delta Air Lines, Inc. will post 7.63 EPS for the current year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, November 6th. Investors of record on Thursday, October 16th were paid a $0.1875 dividend. This represents a $0.75 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.3%. The ex-dividend date was Thursday, October 16th. Delta Air Liness payout ratio is currently 10.56%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have commented on DAL shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their price objective on shares of Delta Air Lines from $72.00 to $85.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, September 12th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of Delta Air Lines in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group upped their price target on shares of Delta Air Lines from $72.00 to $75.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 10th. Susquehanna increased their price target on Delta Air Lines from $68.00 to $70.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Finally, Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on Delta Air Lines from $70.00 to $74.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Monday, October 13th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and twenty have given a Buy rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus price target of $71.68.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on DAL

Insider Transactions at Delta Air Lines

In other Delta Air Lines news, EVP John E. Laughter sold 23,323 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, October 21st. The stock was sold at an average price of $62.33, for a total transaction of $1,453,722.59. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 81,109 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,055,523.97. This represents a 22.33% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, SVP William C. Carroll sold 14,010 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $61.25, for a total value of $858,112.50. Following the completion of the sale, the senior vice president directly owned 15,816 shares in the company, valued at approximately $968,730. The trade was a 46.97% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Corporate insiders own 0.96% of the companys stock.

Delta Air Lines Profile

(Free Report)

Delta Air Lines, Inc provides scheduled air transportation for passengers and cargo in the United States and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Airline and Refinery. Its domestic network centered on core hubs in Atlanta, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Detroit, and Salt Lake City, as well as coastal hub positions in Boston, Los Angeles, New York-LaGuardia, New York-JFK, and Seattle; and international network centered on hubs and market presence in Amsterdam, Bogota, Lima, Mexico City, London-Heathrow, Paris-Charles de Gaulle, Sao Paulo, Seoul-Incheon, and Tokyo.

Further Reading

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Creative Planning reduced its position in shares of Prologis, Inc. (NYSE:PLD  Free Report) by 14.4% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 94,266 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 15,849 shares during the period. Creative Plannings holdings in Prologis were worth $9,909,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in PLD. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS boosted its stake in Prologis by 3.0% during the second quarter. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS now owns 528,162 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $55,520,000 after buying an additional 15,618 shares during the period. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA raised its holdings in shares of Prologis by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. Massachusetts Financial Services Co. MA now owns 16,506,899 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,735,205,000 after acquiring an additional 253,338 shares in the last quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Prologis by 4.0% during the 2nd quarter. Advisors Capital Management LLC now owns 225,420 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $23,696,000 after acquiring an additional 8,693 shares during the last quarter. Burling Wealth Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of Prologis by 33.0% during the second quarter. Burling Wealth Partners LLC now owns 23,113 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $2,430,000 after purchasing an additional 5,730 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Hibernia Wealth Partners LLC bought a new position in shares of Prologis in the second quarter worth approximately $221,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 93.50% of the companys stock.

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Prologis Trading Up 0.3%

PLD stock opened at $123.88 on Wednesday. The company has a market capitalization of $115.07 billion, a PE ratio of 36.12, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.13 and a beta of 1.29. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.65 and a current ratio of 0.64. Prologis, Inc. has a one year low of $85.35 and a one year high of $127.50. The companys 50 day moving average price is $119.58 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $112.11.

Prologis Announces Dividend

Prologis ( NYSE:PLD Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.49 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.44 by $0.05. The company had revenue of $2.21 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.03 billion. Prologis had a net margin of 36.71% and a return on equity of 5.55%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 8.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $1.43 EPS. Prologis has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.780-5.810 EPS. As a group, analysts predict that Prologis, Inc. will post 5.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 16th were issued a $1.01 dividend. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 16th. This represents a $4.04 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.3%. Prologiss payout ratio is currently 117.78%.

Insider Transactions at Prologis

In other news, Director Cristina Gabriela Bita sold 500 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $123.14, for a total value of $61,570.00. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 8,829 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,087,203.06. The trade was a 5.36% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Also, CAO Lori A. Palazzolo sold 25,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, August 26th. The stock was sold at an average price of $111.33, for a total value of $2,783,250.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 414 shares in the company, valued at approximately $46,090.62. The trade was a 98.37% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last three months, insiders sold 27,000 shares of company stock valued at $3,013,665. 0.57% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have issued reports on PLD shares. Evercore ISI lifted their target price on shares of Prologis from $113.00 to $116.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Prologis in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Citigroup cut their target price on shares of Prologis from $150.00 to $140.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Scotiabank raised their price target on Prologis from $127.00 to $133.00 and gave the company a sector perform rating in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Bank of America raised Prologis from a neutral rating to a buy rating and lifted their price target for the stock from $118.00 to $130.00 in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have given a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Prologis presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $125.39.

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Prologis Company Profile

(Free Report)

Prologis, Inc is the global leader in logistics real estate with a focus on high-barrier, high-growth markets. At March 31, 2024, the company owned or had investments in, on a wholly owned basis or through co-investment ventures, properties and development projects expected to total approximately 1.2 billion square feet (115 million square meters) in 19 countries.

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Creative Planning cut its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (BATS:MTUM  Free Report) by 1.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 42,708 shares of the companys stock after selling 435 shares during the period. Creative Plannings holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF were worth $10,264,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also modified their holdings of the business. Bison Wealth LLC raised its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 4.4% in the 4th quarter. Bison Wealth LLC now owns 3,148 shares of the companys stock worth $651,000 after purchasing an additional 133 shares during the period. Wealthfront Advisers LLC grew its holdings in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 69.3% during the first quarter. Wealthfront Advisers LLC now owns 2,120 shares of the companys stock valued at $429,000 after purchasing an additional 868 shares during the period. PFG Advisors increased its position in iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 3.2% in the first quarter. PFG Advisors now owns 5,303 shares of the companys stock worth $1,072,000 after buying an additional 162 shares in the last quarter. Choreo LLC raised its stake in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF by 6.3% in the first quarter. Choreo LLC now owns 43,824 shares of the companys stock worth $8,858,000 after buying an additional 2,610 shares during the period. Finally, Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd bought a new position in shares of iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF in the first quarter worth about $2,090,000.

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iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF Stock Up 15.9%

MTUM stock opened at $242.22 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $253.20 and its 200-day moving average price is $242.22. The stock has a market cap of $17.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.67 and a beta of 1.02. iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF has a twelve month low of $168.49 and a twelve month high of $240.99.

About iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF

The iShares MSCI USA Momentum Factor ETF (MTUM) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI USA Momentum SR Variant index. The fund tracks an index of large- and mid-cap US equities, selected and weighted based on price appreciation over 6- and 12-month periods and low volatility over the past 3 years.

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Dorsey Wright & Associates raised its stake in shares of Aflac Incorporated (NYSE:AFL  Free Report) by 1.4% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 42,686 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 570 shares during the period. Dorsey Wright & Associates holdings in Aflac were worth $4,502,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of Aflac in the first quarter worth $140,746,000. VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new position in Aflac in the second quarter worth about $60,954,000. Sterling Capital Management LLC boosted its position in Aflac by 146.3% in the second quarter. Sterling Capital Management LLC now owns 772,061 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $81,422,000 after purchasing an additional 458,551 shares during the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. grew its stake in shares of Aflac by 133.2% during the 1st quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 758,424 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $84,329,000 after purchasing an additional 433,134 shares during the period. Finally, Guinness Asset Management LTD increased its position in shares of Aflac by 19.4% during the 2nd quarter. Guinness Asset Management LTD now owns 2,372,484 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $250,187,000 after purchasing an additional 385,546 shares during the last quarter. 67.44% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Activity at Aflac

In related news, EVP Frederic Jean Guy Simard sold 1,722 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 6th. The stock was sold at an average price of $112.50, for a total value of $193,725.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 1,364 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $153,450. The trade was a 55.80% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, EVP Audrey B. Tillman sold 3,452 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $115.10, for a total transaction of $397,325.20. Following the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 230,688 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $26,552,188.80. This trade represents a 1.47% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 6,174 shares of company stock valued at $705,050. 0.90% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on AFL shares. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Aflac in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Barclays reiterated an underweight rating and set a $104.00 price target (up previously from $102.00) on shares of Aflac in a research note on Wednesday, November 5th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their price objective on shares of Aflac from $108.00 to $110.00 and gave the company a market perform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 9th. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Aflac from $113.00 to $118.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Monday. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company boosted their price target on Aflac from $107.00 to $109.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have given a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $111.00.

Read Our Latest Report on AFL

Aflac Stock Down 0.5%

Shares of AFL stock opened at $111.76 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.33, a current ratio of 0.11 and a quick ratio of 0.11. Aflac Incorporated has a one year low of $96.95 and a one year high of $115.83. The companys fifty day moving average price is $109.94 and its 200-day moving average price is $106.02. The company has a market capitalization of $58.58 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.34, a PEG ratio of 2.93 and a beta of 0.83.

Aflac (NYSE:AFL  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, February 27th. The financial services provider reported $1.07 earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $5.91 billion during the quarter. Aflac had a net margin of 15.32% and a return on equity of 15.08%. Sell-side analysts expect that Aflac Incorporated will post 6.88 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Aflac announced that its Board of Directors has approved a stock repurchase program on Tuesday, August 12th that authorizes the company to repurchase 100,000,000 outstanding shares. This repurchase authorization authorizes the financial services provider to reacquire shares of its stock through open market purchases. Stock repurchase programs are often an indication that the companys leadership believes its shares are undervalued.

Aflac Increases Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, March 2nd. Investors of record on Wednesday, February 18th will be given a dividend of $0.61 per share. This is an increase from Aflacs previous quarterly dividend of $0.58. This represents a $2.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.2%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, February 18th. Aflacs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 30.29%.

Aflac Company Profile

(Free Report)

Aflac Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, provides supplemental health and life insurance products. The company operates through Aflac Japan and Aflac U.S. segments. The Aflac Japan segment offers cancer, medical, nursing care, work leave, GIFT, and whole and term life insurance products, as well as WAYS and child endowment plans under saving type insurance products in Japan.

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Empowered Funds LLC grew its stake in shares of International Seaways Inc. (NYSE:INSW  Free Report) by 8.1% in the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 296,331 shares of the transportation companys stock after purchasing an additional 22,209 shares during the period. Empowered Funds LLCs holdings in International Seaways were worth $10,810,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of INSW. Blue Trust Inc. lifted its holdings in shares of International Seaways by 18.3% in the second quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 1,872 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $68,000 after purchasing an additional 289 shares in the last quarter. SummerHaven Investment Management LLC raised its position in International Seaways by 3.1% in the 2nd quarter. SummerHaven Investment Management LLC now owns 14,185 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $517,000 after buying an additional 426 shares during the last quarter. Arizona State Retirement System lifted its stake in International Seaways by 3.9% during the 1st quarter. Arizona State Retirement System now owns 11,993 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $398,000 after acquiring an additional 455 shares in the last quarter. Rossby Financial LCC lifted its stake in International Seaways by 3.6% during the 2nd quarter. Rossby Financial LCC now owns 15,386 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $561,000 after acquiring an additional 530 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nisa Investment Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in International Seaways by 6.9% during the 2nd quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 9,044 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $330,000 after acquiring an additional 585 shares during the last quarter. 67.29% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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International Seaways Trading Up 2.0%

NYSE INSW opened at $54.68 on Wednesday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $48.32 and its 200-day moving average is $43.01. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a current ratio of 0.95 and a quick ratio of 0.95. The stock has a market capitalization of $2.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.37 and a beta of -0.02. International Seaways Inc. has a one year low of $27.20 and a one year high of $54.95.

International Seaways Dividend Announcement

International Seaways ( NYSE:INSW Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 23rd. The transportation company reported ($0.63) earnings per share for the quarter. International Seaways had a net margin of 29.88% and a return on equity of 11.35%. The company had revenue of $84.82 million for the quarter. Equities research analysts predict that International Seaways Inc. will post 7.77 EPS for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 23rd. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 9th will be given a dividend of $0.12 per share. This represents a $0.48 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 9th. International Seawayss dividend payout ratio is currently 10.93%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several brokerages have recently commented on INSW. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of International Seaways in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Pareto Securities downgraded shares of International Seaways from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Finally, BTIG Research decreased their price objective on shares of International Seaways from $70.00 to $60.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $52.67.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on INSW

Insider Activity at International Seaways

In related news, CEO Lois K. Zabrocky sold 2,000 shares of International Seaways stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $44.12, for a total value of $88,240.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 186,771 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,240,336.52. The trade was a 1.06% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, SVP Derek G. Solon sold 3,500 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $53.71, for a total value of $187,985.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the senior vice president owned 49,393 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,652,898.03. The trade was a 6.62% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 30,500 shares of company stock worth $1,583,345. 2.00% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

International Seaways Profile

(Free Report)

International Seaways, Inc owns and operates a fleet of oceangoing vessels for the transportation of crude oil and petroleum products in the international flag trade. It operates in two segments: Crude Tankers and Product Carriers. As of December 31, 2023, the company owned a fleet of 73 vessels. It serves independent and state-owned oil companies, oil traders, refinery operators, and international government entities.

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PHNOM PENH, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia and Rwanda have signed two deals on the establishment of bilateral consultations and visa exemption for holders of diplomatic and official or service passports, said a press release from Cambodia's foreign ministry on Wednesday.

Cambodian Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Prak Sokhonn inked the deals with Rwandan Foreign Minister Olivier Nduhungirehe on Tuesday during Sokhonn's official visit to Rwanda, the press release said.

The documents "will pave the way for further strengthening the existing cooperation and exploring other potential areas for mutual benefit of Cambodia and Rwanda," it added.

Both sides pledged to boost cooperation in the field of financial and air services, saying that this cooperation would serve as a vital instrument to enhance connectivity, facilitate exchanges, and strengthen economic and people-to-people ties, it added. 
Empowered Funds LLC increased its stake in Texas Pacific Land Corporation (NYSE:TPL  Free Report) by 16.7% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The fund owned 11,909 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 1,701 shares during the quarter. Empowered Funds LLCs holdings in Texas Pacific Land were worth $12,581,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in TPL. Hemington Wealth Management raised its position in shares of Texas Pacific Land by 66.7% in the first quarter. Hemington Wealth Management now owns 20 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 8 shares during the period. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT bought a new position in Texas Pacific Land in the 1st quarter worth $28,000. IMA Advisory Services Inc. acquired a new position in Texas Pacific Land during the 1st quarter worth $36,000. GW&K Investment Management LLC lifted its position in Texas Pacific Land by 237.5% during the 1st quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 27 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 19 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Assetmark Inc. boosted its holdings in Texas Pacific Land by 50.0% during the first quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 39 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $52,000 after acquiring an additional 13 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 59.94% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently commented on TPL. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of Texas Pacific Land in a research note on Monday. Tudor Pickering raised Texas Pacific Land to a strong sell rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, Director Eric L. Oliver bought 100 shares of Texas Pacific Land stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, August 21st. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $881.27 per share, with a total value of $88,127.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the director directly owned 393,600 shares in the company, valued at $346,867,872. This trade represents a 0.03% increase in their ownership of the stock. The purchase was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. 6.90% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Texas Pacific Land Stock Performance

NYSE:TPL opened at $918.10 on Wednesday. The firms 50-day moving average is $939.32 and its 200-day moving average is $1,019.21. The company has a market cap of $21.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 45.77 and a beta of 1.12. Texas Pacific Land Corporation has a 52-week low of $845.56 and a 52-week high of $1,769.14.

Texas Pacific Land (NYSE:TPL  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The financial services provider reported $5.27 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $5.77 by ($0.50). The firm had revenue of $203.10 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $175.00 million. Texas Pacific Land had a net margin of 62.16% and a return on equity of 39.47%.

Texas Pacific Land Dividend Announcement

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Investors of record on Monday, December 1st will be paid a $1.60 dividend. This represents a $6.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 0.7%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, December 1st. Texas Pacific Lands dividend payout ratio is presently 30.92%.

Texas Pacific Land Profile

(Free Report)

Texas Pacific Land Corporation engages in the land and resource management, and water services and operations businesses. The company owns a 1/128th nonparticipating perpetual oil and gas royalty interest (NPRI) under approximately 85,000 acres of land; a 1/16th NPRI under approximately 371,000 acres of land; and approximately 4,000 additional net royalty acres, total of approximately 195,000 NRA located in the western part of Texas.

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FineMark National Bank & Trust cut its stake in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:BSV  Free Report) by 1.7% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 100,790 shares of the companys stock after selling 1,751 shares during the quarter. FineMark National Bank & Trusts holdings in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF were worth $7,932,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of BSV. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. raised its position in Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 54,699,168 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,304,825,000 after buying an additional 852,175 shares during the last quarter. Allworth Financial LP grew its stake in shares of Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 1.5% in the 2nd quarter. Allworth Financial LP now owns 18,685,793 shares of the companys stock worth $1,470,572,000 after acquiring an additional 267,419 shares in the last quarter. Empower Advisory Group LLC raised its holdings in shares of Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 4.6% in the second quarter. Empower Advisory Group LLC now owns 18,101,201 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,424,564,000 after purchasing an additional 800,357 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its position in shares of Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 0.5% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 16,552,986 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,295,768,000 after purchasing an additional 77,456 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Beacon Capital Management Inc. lifted its position in shares of Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF by 299.9% during the first quarter. Beacon Capital Management Inc. now owns 7,168,818 shares of the companys stock valued at $559,670,000 after purchasing an additional 5,376,301 shares in the last quarter.

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Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF Stock Up 0.1%

Shares of BSV stock opened at $78.88 on Wednesday. Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF has a 52-week low of $76.93 and a 52-week high of $79.21. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $78.93 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $78.56.

About Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF

Vanguard Short-Term Bond ETF (the Fund) seeks to track the performance of a market-weighted bond index with a short-term, dollar-weighted average maturity. The Fund employs a passive management or indexing strategy designed to track the performance of the Barclays Capital U.S. 1-5 Year Government/Credit Bond Index (the Index).

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FineMark National Bank & Trust cut its stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report) by 0.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 48,090 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 244 shares during the period. FineMark National Bank & Trusts holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. were worth $15,395,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Menard Financial Group LLC raised its stake in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 0.8% in the first quarter. Menard Financial Group LLC now owns 3,812 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,289,000 after buying an additional 32 shares during the period. SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 2.3% in the 2nd quarter. SeaCrest Wealth Management LLC now owns 1,542 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $494,000 after acquiring an additional 34 shares in the last quarter. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC raised its stake in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 1.3% during the 1st quarter. Ashton Thomas Private Wealth LLC now owns 2,746 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $948,000 after acquiring an additional 35 shares during the period. Contravisory Investment Management Inc. lifted its holdings in Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 0.6% during the second quarter. Contravisory Investment Management Inc. now owns 5,501 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $1,761,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Tritonpoint Wealth LLC boosted its position in shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. by 1.1% in the second quarter. Tritonpoint Wealth LLC now owns 3,222 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,032,000 after purchasing an additional 35 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 85.53% of the companys stock.

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Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Stock Down 0.3%

NYSE AJG opened at $258.44 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $283.25 and a 200-day moving average price of $303.75. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. has a one year low of $239.47 and a one year high of $351.23. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.52, a quick ratio of 1.36 and a current ratio of 1.36. The company has a market capitalization of $66.37 billion, a P/E ratio of 36.71 and a beta of 0.71.

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. Dividend Announcement

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. ( NYSE:AJG Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The financial services provider reported $2.32 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.51 by ($0.19). Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. had a net margin of 14.54% and a return on equity of 13.17%. The business had revenue of $3.33 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.34 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $2.26 EPS. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s revenue for the quarter was up 20.2% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities analysts predict that Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. will post 11.54 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 19th. Investors of record on Friday, December 5th will be issued a $0.65 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $2.60 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.0%. Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.s dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 38.86%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, CFO Douglas K. Howell sold 8,000 shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, September 22nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $299.54, for a total value of $2,396,320.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 100,777 shares in the company, valued at approximately $30,186,742.58. The trade was a 7.35% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, VP Scott R. Hudson sold 12,855 shares of the stock in a transaction on Monday, September 8th. The shares were sold at an average price of $297.60, for a total value of $3,825,648.00. Following the sale, the vice president owned 85,920 shares in the company, valued at $25,569,792. The trade was a 13.01% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Over the last quarter, insiders sold 29,855 shares of company stock worth $8,916,928. Corporate insiders own 1.60% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

AJG has been the topic of a number of analyst reports. Piper Sandler lowered their target price on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $340.00 to $295.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Evercore ISI lowered their price objective on Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from $370.00 to $353.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Cantor Fitzgerald raised Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Wall Street Zen downgraded Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. from a hold rating to a sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Finally, Erste Group Bank reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. in a report on Wednesday, July 23rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating and eight have given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $323.64.

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About Arthur J. Gallagher & Co.

(Free Report)

Arthur J. Gallagher & Co engages in the provision of insurance brokerage, reinsurance brokerage, consulting, and third-party claims settlement and administration services. It operates through the following segments: Brokerage, Risk Management, and Corporate. The Brokerage segment consists of retail and wholesale insurance brokerage operations.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding AJG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Arthur J. Gallagher & Co. (NYSE:AJG  Free Report).

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Rocket Companies, UP Fintech, Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz, LexinFintech, PPDAI Group, DeFi Development, and IDT are the seven Fintech stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Fintech stocks are shares of companies whose primary business is using software and digital technology to provide or enable financial servicesexamples include digital banks, payments processors, online lenders, roboadvisors, blockchain platforms, and financial infrastructure providers. For investors, fintech stocks are generally viewed as a growth-oriented, innovation-driven segment that can offer strong upside but also carries heightened volatility and regulatory and execution risks. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Fintech stocks within the last several days.

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Rocket Companies (RKT)

Rocket Companies, Inc., a fintech holding company, provides mortgage lending, title and settlement services, and other financial technology services in the United States and Canada. It operates through two segments, Direct to Consumer and Partner Network. The companys solutions include Rocket Mortgage, a mortgage lender; Amrock that provides title insurance, property valuation, and settlement services; Rocket Homes, a home search platform and real estate agent referral network, which offers technology-enabled services to support the home buying and selling experience; and Rocket Loans, an online-based personal loans business.

UP Fintech (TIGR)

UP Fintech Holding Limited provides online brokerage services focusing on Chinese investors. The company has developed a brokerage platform, which allows investor to trade stocks, options, warrants, and other financial instruments that can be accessed through its APP and website. It offers brokerage and value-added services, including investor education, community engagement, and IR platform services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TIGR

Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz (KSPI)

Joint Stock Company Kaspi.kz, together with its subsidiaries, provides payments, marketplace, and fintech solutions for consumers and merchants in the Republic of Kazakhstan. It operates through three segments: Payments Platform, Marketplace Platform, and Fintech Platform. The Payments Platform segment facilities transactions between customers and merchants.

Read Our Latest Research Report on KSPI

LexinFintech (LX)

LexinFintech Holdings Ltd., through its subsidiaries, provides online consumer finance services in the People's Republic of China. The company operates Fenqile.com, an online consumption and consumer finance platform that offers installment purchase and personal installment loans, as well as online direct sales with installment payment terms; and Le Hua Card, a scenario-based lending.

Read Our Latest Research Report on LX

PPDAI Group (FINV)

FinVolution Group operates in the online consumer finance industry. The company operates a fintech platform that is empowered by borrowers with financial institutions. It operates in China and internationally. The company was formerly known as PPDAI Group Inc. and changed its name to FinVolution Group in November 2019.

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DeFi Development (DFDV)

We are a B2B fintech marketplace connecting commercial property borrowers and lenders with a human touch. We seek to revolutionize the commercial real estate lending market by making it hyper-efficient, transparent, and accessible to all rather than the few. Through our online platform, we provide technology that connects commercial mortgage borrowers looking for capital to refinance, build, or purchase commercial property, including, but not limited to, apartment buildings, to commercial property lenders.

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IDT (IDT)

IDT Corporation provides communications and payment services in the United States, the United Kingdom, and internationally. It operates through Fintech, National Retail Solutions, net2phone, and Traditional Communications segments. The company operates point of sale, a terminal-based platform which provides independent retailers store management software, electronic payment processing, and other ancillary merchant services; and provides marketers with digital out-of-home advertising and transaction data.

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Forestar Group (NYSE:FOR  Get Free Report) and ACRO (OTCMKTS:TACI  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the superior business? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their profitability, risk, earnings, dividends, valuation, analyst recommendations and institutional ownership.

Profitability

This table compares Forestar Group and ACROs net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Forestar Group 10.11% 10.08% 5.52% ACRO N/A N/A N/A

Insider & Institutional Ownership

35.5% of Forestar Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 0.4% of Forestar Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

Valuation and Earnings

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Forestar Group $1.66 billion 0.71 $203.40 million $3.29 7.03 ACRO N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

This table compares Forestar Group and ACROs revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Forestar Group has higher revenue and earnings than ACRO.

Volatility & Risk

Forestar Group has a beta of 1.43, suggesting that its stock price is 43% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, ACRO has a beta of -231.69, suggesting that its stock price is 23,269% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent recommendations and price targets for Forestar Group and ACRO, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Forestar Group 0 3 4 0 2.57 ACRO 0 0 0 0 0.00

Forestar Group presently has a consensus target price of $32.00, suggesting a potential upside of 38.32%. Given Forestar Groups stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, research analysts clearly believe Forestar Group is more favorable than ACRO.

Summary

Forestar Group beats ACRO on 10 of the 10 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Forestar Group

(Get Free Report)

Forestar Group Inc. operates as a residential lot development company in the United States. The company acquires land and develops infrastructure for single-family residential communities. It sells its residential single-family finished lots to local, regional, and national homebuilders. The company was incorporated in 2005 and is headquartered in Arlington, Texas. Forestar Group Inc. operates as a subsidiary of D.R. Horton, Inc.

About ACRO

(Get Free Report)

Transatlantic Capital Inc. does not have significant operations. It intends to identify opportunities in commercial properties in the retail, office, and industrial sectors throughout the United States and Canada. The company was formerly known as ACRO Inc. and changed its name to Transatlantic Capital Inc. in May 2014. Transatlantic Capital Inc. was founded in 2002 and is based in Vallejo, California.TransAtlantic Capital Inc. operates as a subsidiary of NFA Securitiers L3C.

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Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC lowered its position in Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL  Free Report) by 4.9% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The institutional investor owned 9,719 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 506 shares during the period. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLCs holdings in Welltower were worth $1,494,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in the company. Capital Square LLC grew its stake in Welltower by 7.4% in the 2nd quarter. Capital Square LLC now owns 8,102 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $1,257,000 after acquiring an additional 556 shares during the last quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Welltower by 3.8% in the second quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC now owns 5,169 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $795,000 after purchasing an additional 190 shares in the last quarter. Mosaic Family Wealth Partners LLC grew its position in shares of Welltower by 24.0% in the second quarter. Mosaic Family Wealth Partners LLC now owns 3,100 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $477,000 after purchasing an additional 600 shares during the last quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its stake in shares of Welltower by 6.6% during the 2nd quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 1,261,839 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $193,983,000 after purchasing an additional 77,941 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. raised its position in shares of Welltower by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter. Duff & Phelps Investment Management Co. now owns 2,509,637 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $385,806,000 after purchasing an additional 32,891 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 94.80% of the companys stock.

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Welltower Stock Performance

NYSE WELL opened at $198.55 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average price is $177.17 and its 200 day moving average price is $164.38. The company has a current ratio of 5.47, a quick ratio of 4.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.43. Welltower Inc. has a twelve month low of $123.11 and a twelve month high of $200.64. The company has a market capitalization of $136.27 billion, a PE ratio of 136.93, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.92.

Welltower Dividend Announcement

Welltower ( NYSE:WELL Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $1.34 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.30 by $0.04. The company had revenue of $2.69 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.70 billion. Welltower had a net margin of 9.69% and a return on equity of 2.71%. The companys quarterly revenue was up 30.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $1.11 EPS. Welltower has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.240-5.300 EPS. On average, research analysts predict that Welltower Inc. will post 4.88 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, November 20th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 11th will be issued a $0.74 dividend. This represents a $2.96 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.5%. The ex-dividend date is Monday, November 10th. Welltowers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 204.14%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of brokerages have commented on WELL. KeyCorp increased their target price on Welltower from $150.00 to $200.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 23rd. Scotiabank increased their price objective on Welltower from $182.00 to $214.00 and gave the company a sector outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Cantor Fitzgerald lifted their price objective on Welltower from $195.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 28th. Loop Capital set a $196.00 target price on shares of Welltower in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Raymond James Financial reiterated a strong-buy rating on shares of Welltower in a report on Tuesday, September 2nd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $190.07.

Check Out Our Latest Analysis on Welltower

About Welltower

(Free Report)

Welltower Inc (NYSE:WELL), a real estate investment trust (REIT) and S&P 500 company headquartered in Toledo, Ohio, is driving the transformation of health care infrastructure. Welltower invests with leading seniors housing operators, post-acute providers and health systems to fund the real estate infrastructure needed to scale innovative care delivery models and improve peoples wellness and overall health care experience.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding WELL? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Welltower Inc. (NYSE:WELL  Free Report).

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Freenet AG (OTCMKTS:FRTAF  Get Free Report) reached a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $30.78 and last traded at $30.78, with a volume of 200 shares traded. The stock had previously closed at $39.73.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft restated a buy rating on shares of Freenet in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has a consensus rating of Reduce.

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View Our Latest Stock Report on Freenet

Freenet Price Performance

About Freenet

The company has a current ratio of 0.62, a quick ratio of 0.58 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14. The stock has a 50-day simple moving average of $33.89 and a 200 day simple moving average of $34.88. The stock has a market capitalization of $3.66 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.88 and a beta of -0.10.

(Get Free Report)

freenet AG provides telecommunications, broadcasting, and multimedia services for mobile communications/mobile internet, and digital lifestyle sectors in Germany. It operates through Mobile Communications, TV and Media, and Other/Holding segments. The Mobile Communications segment engages in the marketing of mobile communications services, which include voice and data services from the mobile network operators; planning, set up, installation, and maintenance services for WiFi networks; and selling and distribution of mobile devices, as well as offers additional services for mobile data communications and digital lifestyle.

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Fresnillo PLC (OTCMKTS:FNLPF  Get Free Report) rose 6.3% on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $32.41 and last traded at $32.11. Approximately 4,493 shares changed hands during trading, a decline of 63% from the average daily volume of 12,296 shares. The stock had previously closed at $30.1952.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on FNLPF shares. Morgan Stanley reiterated an underweight rating on shares of Fresnillo in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Hsbc Global Res upgraded shares of Fresnillo from a moderate sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. HSBC raised shares of Fresnillo to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, October 13th. Peel Hunt cut shares of Fresnillo from a moderate buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, August 19th. Finally, Citigroup reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Fresnillo in a research note on Friday, September 26th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has assigned a Buy rating, five have given a Hold rating and two have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Hold.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Fresnillo

Fresnillo Stock Up 4.2%

Fresnillo Company Profile

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.20, a current ratio of 5.09 and a quick ratio of 4.34. The businesss fifty day moving average is $30.73 and its two-hundred day moving average is $23.53.

(Get Free Report)

Fresnillo plc mines, develops, and produces non-ferrous minerals in Mexico. It operates through seven segments: Fresnillo, Saucito, Cienega, Herradura, Noche Buena, San Julian, and Juanicipio. The company primarily explores for silver, gold, lead, and zinc concentrates. Its projects include the Fresnillo silver mine located in the state of Zacatecas; Saucito silver mine situated in the state of Zacatecas; Cienega gold mine located in the state of Durango; Herradura gold mine situated in the state of Sonora; Noche Buena gold mine located in the state of Sonora; San Julian silver-gold mine situated on the border of Chihuahua/Durango states; and Juanicipio mine located in the state of Zacatecas.

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Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) (OTCMKTS:ETHE  Get Free Report)s stock price fell 7.7% during mid-day trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $23.61 and last traded at $23.67. 10,496,872 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 92% from the average session volume of 5,455,451 shares. The stock had previously closed at $25.64.

Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) Price Performance

The stock has a 50 day moving average price of $32.79 and a 200 day moving average price of $28.74.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH)

A number of institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in ETHE. DRW Securities LLC boosted its stake in Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) by 226.1% in the 1st quarter. DRW Securities LLC now owns 1,514,618 shares of the companys stock worth $23,052,000 after purchasing an additional 1,050,147 shares in the last quarter. IMC Chicago LLC raised its holdings in Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) by 73,337.7% in the third quarter. IMC Chicago LLC now owns 202,136 shares of the companys stock worth $6,927,000 after buying an additional 202,412 shares during the last quarter. Jump Financial LLC bought a new position in shares of Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) in the third quarter worth approximately $5,422,000. StoneX Group Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) by 510.5% during the second quarter. StoneX Group Inc. now owns 134,015 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,796,000 after buying an additional 112,063 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH) by 3,753.6% during the third quarter. Newbridge Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 98,922 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,390,000 after acquiring an additional 96,355 shares in the last quarter.

About Grayscale Ethereum Trust (ETH)

crossword cybersecurity is a technology commercialisation company focusing exclusively on the cyber security sector. we work with research intensive european university partners to identify promising cyber security intellectual property (ip) from research that our industry partners tell us meet emerging real-world challenges.

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Greenland Capital Management LP acquired a new position in Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. (NYSE:REXR  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund acquired 59,691 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $2,123,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the business. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC raised its stake in Rexford Industrial Realty by 3.3% during the second quarter. Allspring Global Investments Holdings LLC now owns 13,059 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $472,000 after acquiring an additional 423 shares during the period. Amundi raised its position in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty by 5.8% during the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 126,678 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $4,544,000 after purchasing an additional 6,970 shares during the period. Pallas Capital Advisors LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in the 2nd quarter worth approximately $267,000. Truvestments Capital LLC bought a new stake in shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in the 1st quarter worth approximately $3,030,000. Finally, Canoe Financial LP acquired a new stake in Rexford Industrial Realty in the second quarter worth $1,227,000. 99.52% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Rexford Industrial Realty Stock Up 1.2%

REXR stock opened at $40.80 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 2.95 and a quick ratio of 2.95. The firm has a market cap of $9.50 billion, a PE ratio of 28.73, a P/E/G ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 1.15. Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. has a 12 month low of $29.68 and a 12 month high of $44.38. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $41.90 and a 200 day simple moving average of $38.78.

Rexford Industrial Realty Dividend Announcement

Rexford Industrial Realty ( NYSE:REXR Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 15th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.60 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.59 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $253.24 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $253.46 million. Rexford Industrial Realty had a return on equity of 3.81% and a net margin of 33.88%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 4.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $0.59 EPS. Rexford Industrial Realty has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.390-2.410 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc. will post 2.38 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be given a $0.43 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 4.2%. Rexford Industrial Realtys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 121.13%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts have commented on the stock. Industrial Alliance Securities set a $42.00 price target on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in a research note on Wednesday. BNP Paribas lowered Rexford Industrial Realty to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from $35.00 to $39.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Monday, September 15th. BNP Paribas Exane reissued a neutral rating and set a $47.00 target price on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Scotiabank upped their price target on shares of Rexford Industrial Realty from $43.00 to $44.00 and gave the stock a sector perform rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Rexford Industrial Realty presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $42.92.

Read Our Latest Report on Rexford Industrial Realty

About Rexford Industrial Realty

(Free Report)

Rexford Industrial Realty, Inc is a self-administered and self-managed real estate investment trust, which engages in owning and operating industrial properties in infill markets. The company was founded by Richard S. Ziman on January 18, 2013 and is headquartered in Los Angeles, CA.

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MANILA, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The Asian Development Bank (ADB) announced on Wednesday that it has approved a 470-million U.S. dollar results-based loan to Indonesia's state-owned utility, PT Perusahaan Listrik Negara (PLN), to speed up the country's shift to renewable energy and support its low-carbon growth goals.

The bank said the Accelerating Indonesia's Clean Energy Transition Program-Phase 1 will help develop solar and wind power projects, reinforce grid infrastructure across Java-Madura-Bali, Sumatra, and Sulawesi, and strengthen PLN's capacity to manage the energy transition.

The program could avoid up to 2.5 million tons of carbon dioxide emissions annually and advance the ASEAN Power Grid initiative by creating a more resilient national grid capable of integrating large volumes of renewable energy.

Set to be implemented from 2026 to 2031, the program includes 470 million dollars from the ADB's ordinary capital resources and 30 million dollars from the ADB-administered funds, including the ASEAN Infrastructure Fund and contributions from the European Union and the United Kingdom under the ASEAN Catalytic Green Finance Facility. 
Greenland Capital Management LP purchased a new stake in Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:PDM  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm purchased 312,985 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $2,282,000. Greenland Capital Management LP owned 0.25% of Piedmont Realty Trust at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Ameritas Advisory Services LLC bought a new position in shares of Piedmont Realty Trust during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $36,000. Wolverine Asset Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Piedmont Realty Trust during the 1st quarter valued at $48,000. New Age Alpha Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Piedmont Realty Trust in the 1st quarter worth $71,000. Arkadios Wealth Advisors grew its stake in Piedmont Realty Trust by 13.0% during the 1st quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors now owns 13,002 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $96,000 after buying an additional 1,500 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fox Run Management L.L.C. purchased a new stake in Piedmont Realty Trust in the second quarter valued at about $127,000. Institutional investors own 84.48% of the companys stock.

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Piedmont Realty Trust Price Performance

Shares of NYSE PDM opened at $8.12 on Wednesday. The firms 50 day simple moving average is $8.48 and its 200-day simple moving average is $7.84. Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. has a 12 month low of $5.46 and a 12 month high of $10.02. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.01 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of -14.25 and a beta of 1.48. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.43, a current ratio of 1.67 and a quick ratio of 1.67.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Piedmont Realty Trust ( NYSE:PDM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.35 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.34 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $110.75 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $141.46 million. Piedmont Realty Trust had a negative net margin of 12.44% and a negative return on equity of 4.51%. The companys revenue for the quarter was down .1% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.36 EPS. Piedmont Realty Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.400-1.420 EPS. Analysts expect that Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. will post 1.41 EPS for the current year.

A number of research analysts have issued reports on PDM shares. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Piedmont Realty Trust from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, August 23rd. Truist Financial set a $9.00 price objective on shares of Piedmont Realty Trust in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Piedmont Realty Trust in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $8.67.

View Our Latest Research Report on PDM

Piedmont Realty Trust Profile

(Free Report)

Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc (also referred to herein as "Piedmont" or the "Company") (NYSE: PDM) is an owner, manager, developer, redeveloper and operator of high-quality, Class A office properties located primarily in major U.S. Sunbelt markets. The Company is a fully-integrated, self-managed real estate investment trust ("REIT") with local management offices in each of its markets and is investment-grade rated by Standard & Poor's and Moody's.

Further Reading

Want to see what other hedge funds are holding PDM? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Piedmont Realty Trust, Inc. (NYSE:PDM  Free Report).

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Dividends

Secom pays an annual dividend of $0.11 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.3%. Secom pays out 26.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. As a group, BUSINESS SVCS companies pay a dividend yield of 1.6% and pay out 52.6% of their earnings in the form of a dividend.

Risk & Volatility

Secom has a beta of 0.41, suggesting that its share price is 59% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Secoms peers have a beta of 4.21, suggesting that their average share price is 321% more volatile than the S&P 500.

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Insider & Institutional Ownership

63.3% of shares of all BUSINESS SVCS companies are held by institutional investors. 14.8% of shares of all BUSINESS SVCS companies are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Secom N/A N/A N/A Secom Competitors 2.23% -161.10% 1.31%

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Secom and its peers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares Secom and its peers top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Net Income Price/Earnings Ratio Secom $7.88 billion $713.52 million 20.04 Secom Competitors $4.58 billion $168.23 million 38.98

Secom has higher revenue and earnings than its peers. Secom is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than its peers, indicating that it is currently more affordable than other companies in its industry.

Summary

Secom peers beat Secom on 7 of the 11 factors compared.

Secom Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

SECOM CO., LTD., together with its subsidiaries, provides security services in Japan and internationally. The company operates through Security Services, Fire Protection Services, Medical Services, Insurance Services, Geospatial Information Services, BPO and ICT Services, and Other Services. The Security Services segment offers static guard, armored car, merchandise, and other services, as well as online security systems. The Fire Protection Services segment provides fire alarm systems, fire extinguishing systems, and maintenance services to office buildings, production facilities, tunnels, cultural properties, ships, and residences. The Medical Services segment offers home nursing, pharmaceutical dispensing, home delivery services, health and preventative care services, and personal and outpatient care services; and cloud-based medical reporting services and SECOM LINKus application. This segment also operates the general hospital and residences for seniors; and sells medical equipment and pharmaceuticals. The Insurance Services Segment provides fire insurance, automobile insurance, and cancer treatment insurance services. The Geospatial Information Services segment offers geospatial information services to public-sector entities, such as national and local governments; private sector customers; and overseas government agencies. The BPO and ICT Services segment provides contact centers and back office support services, data center, disaster preparedness, information security, and cloud-based services, as well as SaaS solutions. The Other Services segment offers real estate leasing, construction, and installation services. The company was incorporated in 1962 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

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Heritage Wealth Advisors lessened its holdings in shares of The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. (NYSE:THG  Free Report) by 53.8% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund owned 430 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 500 shares during the quarter. Heritage Wealth Advisors holdings in The Hanover Insurance Group were worth $73,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the company. Private Advisor Group LLC acquired a new stake in The Hanover Insurance Group in the first quarter valued at about $219,000. Choreo LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Hanover Insurance Group in the first quarter worth about $250,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH acquired a new position in The Hanover Insurance Group during the 1st quarter worth approximately $435,000. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS boosted its stake in shares of The Hanover Insurance Group by 6.4% during the 1st quarter. KLP Kapitalforvaltning AS now owns 10,000 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,740,000 after acquiring an additional 600 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Burney Co. purchased a new position in The Hanover Insurance Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $202,000. 86.61% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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The Hanover Insurance Group Trading Up 1.3%

Shares of THG opened at $180.89 on Wednesday. The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. has a 12-month low of $145.17 and a 12-month high of $186.46. The firm has a market capitalization of $6.44 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.46 and a beta of 0.44. The stocks 50-day moving average price is $177.01 and its 200 day moving average price is $172.19. The company has a quick ratio of 0.37, a current ratio of 0.37 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.11.

The Hanover Insurance Group Dividend Announcement

The Hanover Insurance Group ( NYSE:THG Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The insurance provider reported $5.09 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.79 by $1.30. The Hanover Insurance Group had a return on equity of 22.43% and a net margin of 9.71%.The firm had revenue of $1.67 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.72 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $3.05 earnings per share. The Hanover Insurance Groups quarterly revenue was up 6.4% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, research analysts predict that The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc. will post 14.37 earnings per share for the current year.

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, September 26th. Stockholders of record on Friday, September 12th were given a dividend of $0.90 per share. This represents a $3.60 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, September 12th. The Hanover Insurance Groups payout ratio is 20.82%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on THG shares. JMP Securities set a $205.00 price target on The Hanover Insurance Group in a research note on Thursday, July 31st. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Morgan Stanley lifted their price objective on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group from $185.00 to $190.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. Citigroup restated an outperform rating on shares of The Hanover Insurance Group in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods upped their price target on The Hanover Insurance Group from $198.00 to $200.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Six research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, The Hanover Insurance Group presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $191.83.

View Our Latest Stock Report on The Hanover Insurance Group

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, EVP Denise Lowsley sold 1,619 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $181.47, for a total value of $293,799.93. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 3,511 shares of the companys stock, valued at $637,141.17. This represents a 31.56% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. 2.50% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

About The Hanover Insurance Group

(Free Report)

The Hanover Insurance Group, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides various property and casualty insurance products and services in the United States. The company operates through four segments: Core Commercial, Specialty, Personal Lines, and Other. The Commercial Lines segment offers commercial multiple peril, commercial automobile, workers' compensation, and other commercial lines coverage.

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Heritage Wealth Advisors raised its holdings in shares of Capital One Financial Corporation (NYSE:COF) by 20.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 1,547 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 262 shares during the quarter. Heritage Wealth Advisors holdings in Capital One Financial were worth $329,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other large investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the stock. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC lifted its holdings in Capital One Financial by 588,668.3% during the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 117,447,497 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $24,988,129,000 after purchasing an additional 117,427,549 shares in the last quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 74.8% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 56,380,913 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $11,995,603,000 after buying an additional 24,129,990 shares during the period. Geode Capital Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Capital One Financial by 64.1% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 14,008,841 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,970,628,000 after buying an additional 5,474,328 shares in the last quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp lifted its holdings in shares of Capital One Financial by 41.3% in the second quarter. Bank of New York Mellon Corp now owns 7,011,073 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,491,676,000 after buying an additional 2,050,010 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its position in shares of Capital One Financial by 18.2% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 4,766,573 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $854,647,000 after acquiring an additional 734,939 shares during the period. 89.84% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling

In other news, General Counsel Matthew W. Cooper sold 2,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Tuesday, November 4th. The shares were sold at an average price of $219.41, for a total value of $438,820.00. Following the transaction, the general counsel owned 96,486 shares in the company, valued at approximately $21,169,993.26. This trade represents a 2.03% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, insider Frank G. LapradeIii sold 17,840 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $222.03, for a total transaction of $3,961,015.20. Following the completion of the sale, the insider directly owned 48,315 shares in the company, valued at approximately $10,727,379.45. This trade represents a 26.97% decrease in their position. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. In the last three months, insiders sold 274,013 shares of company stock worth $61,045,903. 1.26% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms recently weighed in on COF. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their target price on shares of Capital One Financial from $224.00 to $240.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods boosted their price target on shares of Capital One Financial from $248.00 to $260.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Rothschild & Co Redburn assumed coverage on Capital One Financial in a research report on Friday, August 1st. They issued a buy rating and a $290.00 price objective on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. boosted their target price on Capital One Financial from $235.00 to $237.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, HSBC raised their price target on Capital One Financial from $218.00 to $234.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Thursday, October 23rd. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have issued a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $261.63.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on Capital One Financial

Capital One Financial Stock Performance

NYSE COF opened at $200.61 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $217.89 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $211.42. Capital One Financial Corporation has a 12-month low of $143.22 and a 12-month high of $232.45. The firm has a market cap of $127.53 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 84.64, a PEG ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 1.19. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.45.

Capital One Financial (NYSE:COF  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The financial services provider reported $5.95 earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of $15.46 billion during the quarter. Capital One Financial had a return on equity of 10.94% and a net margin of 2.24%. On average, equities analysts forecast that Capital One Financial Corporation will post 15.65 EPS for the current year.

Capital One Financial Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a dividend of $0.80 per share. This represents a $3.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.6%. This is a boost from Capital One Financials previous quarterly dividend of $0.60. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. Capital One Financials payout ratio is currently 135.02%.

Capital One Financial Profile

(Free Report)

Capital One Financial Corporation operates as the financial services holding company for the Capital One, National Association, which engages in the provision of various financial products and services in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. It operates through three segments: Credit Card, Consumer Banking, and Commercial Banking.

Further Reading

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Highview Capital Management LLC DE trimmed its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 65.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,775 shares of the medical research companys stock after selling 5,250 shares during the period. Highview Capital Management LLC DEs holdings in Edwards Lifesciences were worth $217,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 1.2% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 69,997,629 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $5,474,515,000 after purchasing an additional 798,801 shares during the last quarter. Intrust Bank NA lifted its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 16.9% in the second quarter. Intrust Bank NA now owns 13,755 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $1,076,000 after acquiring an additional 1,991 shares in the last quarter. Citigroup Inc. lifted its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 30.3% in the second quarter. Citigroup Inc. now owns 1,385,415 shares of the medical research companys stock valued at $108,353,000 after acquiring an additional 321,986 shares in the last quarter. Midwest Professional Planners LTD. boosted its stake in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 1.1% in the second quarter. Midwest Professional Planners LTD. now owns 37,451 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $2,929,000 after acquiring an additional 413 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH increased its position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences by 6.4% during the second quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 1,484,222 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $116,081,000 after purchasing an additional 89,122 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 79.46% of the companys stock.

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Edwards Lifesciences Trading Down 0.7%

Shares of Edwards Lifesciences stock opened at $84.13 on Wednesday. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $78.37 and a 200 day moving average of $77.88. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06, a quick ratio of 3.87 and a current ratio of 4.68. The firm has a market capitalization of $48.82 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.11, a PEG ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.03. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $65.94 and a fifty-two week high of $87.21.

Insider Activity

Edwards Lifesciences ( NYSE:EW Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The medical research company reported $0.67 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.59 by $0.08. The business had revenue of $1.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.49 billion. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 15.01% and a net margin of 72.96%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $0.67 EPS. Edwards Lifesciences has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.560-2.620 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.580-0.640 EPS. As a group, research analysts predict that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 earnings per share for the current year.

In other news, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 13,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.08, for a total value of $1,080,040.00. Following the transaction, the chief financial officer directly owned 39,898 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,314,725.84. This represents a 24.58% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.55, for a total transaction of $84,201.00. Following the transaction, the vice president directly owned 22,002 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,816,265.10. The trade was a 4.43% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Company insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of brokerages have weighed in on EW. Citigroup raised their price objective on Edwards Lifesciences from $95.00 to $96.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Friday, October 31st. Raymond James Financial upgraded shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a market perform rating to an outperform rating and set a $96.00 target price for the company in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Truist Financial boosted their price target on shares of Edwards Lifesciences from $87.00 to $90.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Daiwa America raised shares of Edwards Lifesciences from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, July 29th. Finally, Sanford C. Bernstein reissued a market perform rating and issued a $90.00 target price on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have given a Buy rating, ten have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $91.39.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on Edwards Lifesciences

Edwards Lifesciences Company Profile

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names.

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Intech Investment Management LLC lessened its stake in Meritage Homes Corporation (NYSE:MTH  Free Report) by 13.4% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 57,688 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 8,939 shares during the period. Intech Investment Management LLC owned about 0.08% of Meritage Homes worth $3,863,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also made changes to their positions in MTH. Arkadios Wealth Advisors lifted its stake in shares of Meritage Homes by 3.5% in the 2nd quarter. Arkadios Wealth Advisors now owns 5,566 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $373,000 after purchasing an additional 186 shares during the period. QRG Capital Management Inc. increased its holdings in Meritage Homes by 2.5% in the second quarter. QRG Capital Management Inc. now owns 8,658 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $580,000 after buying an additional 208 shares in the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC raised its position in shares of Meritage Homes by 54.9% in the second quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 618 shares of the construction companys stock worth $41,000 after acquiring an additional 219 shares during the period. Yousif Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of Meritage Homes by 1.2% in the second quarter. Yousif Capital Management LLC now owns 28,846 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,932,000 after acquiring an additional 348 shares during the period. Finally, US Bancorp DE boosted its stake in shares of Meritage Homes by 2.6% during the 2nd quarter. US Bancorp DE now owns 14,228 shares of the construction companys stock worth $953,000 after acquiring an additional 361 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 98.44% of the companys stock.

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Meritage Homes Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE:MTH opened at $65.67 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.35, a current ratio of 1.95 and a quick ratio of 2.16. Meritage Homes Corporation has a 1 year low of $59.27 and a 1 year high of $98.74. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.62 billion, a PE ratio of 6.67 and a beta of 1.36. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $70.74 and its 200-day moving average price is $70.53.

Meritage Homes Announces Dividend

Meritage Homes ( NYSE:MTH Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, October 28th. The construction company reported $1.39 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.71 by ($0.32). Meritage Homes had a net margin of 8.96% and a return on equity of 10.37%. The firm had revenue of $1.42 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.48 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $5.34 EPS. The companys revenue for the quarter was down 11.8% on a year-over-year basis. Meritage Homes has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 1.510-1.700 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Meritage Homes Corporation will post 9.44 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Tuesday, September 30th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 16th were given a dividend of $0.43 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 16th. This represents a $1.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.6%. Meritage Homess payout ratio is presently 17.48%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

MTH has been the subject of a number of analyst reports. UBS Group set a $101.00 price target on Meritage Homes and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of Meritage Homes in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on Meritage Homes from $77.00 to $75.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Zelman & Associates raised shares of Meritage Homes to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, July 24th. Finally, Wedbush cut their price target on shares of Meritage Homes from $103.00 to $90.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a report on Friday, July 25th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, three have assigned a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $84.71.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on MTH

Insider Transactions at Meritage Homes

In other Meritage Homes news, CEO Phillippe Lord sold 6,950 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $80.01, for a total value of $556,069.50. Following the completion of the sale, the chief executive officer owned 221,320 shares in the company, valued at approximately $17,707,813.20. This represents a 3.04% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 2.20% of the companys stock.

About Meritage Homes

(Free Report)

Meritage Homes Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, designs and builds single-family attached and detached homes in the United States. The company operates through two segments, Homebuilding and Financial Services. It acquires and develops land; and constructs, markets, and sells homes for entry-level and first move-up buyers in Arizona, California, Colorado, Utah, Texas, Florida, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee.

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International Consolidated Airlines Group S.A. (LON:IAG  Get Free Report) has been given a consensus rating of Moderate Buy by the seven brokerages that are currently covering the firm, MarketBeat reports. One research analyst has rated the stock with a sell rating and six have issued a buy rating on the company. The average 1-year target price among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is GBX 455.

IAG has been the topic of a number of research analyst reports. Citigroup boosted their target price on International Consolidated Airlines Group from GBX 620 to GBX 630 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Peel Hunt reissued a buy rating and issued a GBX 450 price objective on shares of International Consolidated Airlines Group in a research report on Friday, November 7th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft upped their price objective on International Consolidated Airlines Group from GBX 475 to GBX 500 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Monday. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a GBX 500 target price on shares of International Consolidated Airlines Group in a research note on Monday, November 10th.

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Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on International Consolidated Airlines Group

International Consolidated Airlines Group Trading Up 0.1%

International Consolidated Airlines Group Company Profile

Shares of IAG stock opened at GBX 371.50 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 338.12, a quick ratio of 0.63 and a current ratio of 0.70. The company has a market capitalization of 17.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 5.75, a PEG ratio of 0.21 and a beta of 2.31. International Consolidated Airlines Group has a 52-week low of GBX 210 and a 52-week high of GBX 429.30. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of GBX 395.30 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of GBX 367.27.

(Get Free Report)

International Consolidated Airlines Group SA, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of passenger and cargo transportation services in the United Kingdom, Spain, the United States, and rest of the world. It also provides aircraft leasing, aircraft maintenance, tour operation, air freight operations, call centre, ground handling, trustee, retail, IT, finance, procurement, storage and custody, aircraft technical assistance, human resources support, and airport infrastructure development services; and manages airline loyalty programmes.

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Creative Planning grew its position in iShares MSCI India ETF (BATS:INDA  Free Report) by 62.7% in the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 162,108 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 62,471 shares during the period. Creative Plannings holdings in iShares MSCI India ETF were worth $9,026,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in the company. SG Americas Securities LLC raised its holdings in shares of iShares MSCI India ETF by 60.4% during the second quarter. SG Americas Securities LLC now owns 80,896 shares of the companys stock valued at $4,504,000 after buying an additional 30,466 shares during the last quarter. WealthShield Partners LLC increased its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 278.7% in the 2nd quarter. WealthShield Partners LLC now owns 693 shares of the companys stock valued at $39,000 after acquiring an additional 510 shares during the period. Empower Advisory Group LLC raised its stake in iShares MSCI India ETF by 46.5% during the 2nd quarter. Empower Advisory Group LLC now owns 5,920 shares of the companys stock valued at $330,000 after acquiring an additional 1,879 shares in the last quarter. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. boosted its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 46.9% during the 2nd quarter. Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria S.A. now owns 84,576 shares of the companys stock worth $4,702,000 after acquiring an additional 27,005 shares during the period. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its position in iShares MSCI India ETF by 44.8% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 4,541,678 shares of the companys stock worth $252,881,000 after acquiring an additional 1,405,731 shares during the period.

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iShares MSCI India ETF Stock Performance

Shares of INDA opened at $54.63 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $9.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.20 and a beta of 0.48. iShares MSCI India ETF has a one year low of $47.60 and a one year high of $59.49. The stocks fifty day moving average is $53.66 and its 200-day moving average is $53.84.

iShares MSCI India ETF Company Profile

The iShares MSCI India ETF (INDA) is an exchange-traded fund that is based on the MSCI India index, a market-cap-weighted index of the top 85% of firms in the Indian securities market. INDA was launched on Feb 2, 2012 and is managed by BlackRock.

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Arcosa (NYSE:ACA  Get Free Report) and Knife River (NYSE:KNF  Get Free Report) are both mid-cap construction companies, but which is the superior investment? We will compare the two companies based on the strength of their earnings, dividends, valuation, analyst recommendations, institutional ownership, risk and profitability.

Risk and Volatility

Arcosa has a beta of 1.01, indicating that its share price is 1% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Knife River has a beta of 0.53, indicating that its share price is 47% less volatile than the S&P 500.

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Insider and Institutional Ownership

90.7% of Arcosa shares are held by institutional investors. Comparatively, 80.1% of Knife River shares are held by institutional investors. 1.2% of Arcosa shares are held by insiders. Comparatively, 0.3% of Knife River shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Arcosa 0 1 4 0 2.80 Knife River 0 1 6 0 2.86

This is a breakdown of current recommendations for Arcosa and Knife River, as reported by MarketBeat.

Arcosa currently has a consensus price target of $115.00, suggesting a potential upside of 16.30%. Knife River has a consensus price target of $99.00, suggesting a potential upside of 44.39%. Given Knife Rivers stronger consensus rating and higher possible upside, analysts clearly believe Knife River is more favorable than Arcosa.

Profitability

This table compares Arcosa and Knife Rivers net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Arcosa 5.25% 7.46% 3.74% Knife River 4.87% 9.97% 4.41%

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Arcosa and Knife Rivers gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Arcosa $2.57 billion 1.89 $93.70 million $3.02 32.74 Knife River $2.90 billion 1.34 $201.68 million $2.61 26.27

Knife River has higher revenue and earnings than Arcosa. Knife River is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Arcosa, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

About Arcosa

(Get Free Report)

Arcosa, Inc., together with its subsidiaries, provides infrastructure-related products and solutions for the construction, engineered structures, and transportation markets in the United States. It operates through three segments: Construction Products, Engineered Structures, and Transportation Products. The Construction Products segment offers natural and recycled aggregates; specialty materials; and construction site support equipment, including trench shields and shoring products for residential and non-residential construction, and specialty/other products, as well as for infrastructure construction. The Engineered Structures segment offers utility structures, wind towers, traffic structures, and telecommunication structures for electricity transmission and distribution, wind power generation, highway road construction, and wireless communication markets. The Transportation Products segment offers inland barges, fiberglass barge covers, winches, marine hardware, and steel components for railcars and transportation equipment; cast components for industrial and mining sectors; and axles, circular forgings, and coupling devices for freight, tank, locomotive, and passenger rail transportation equipment, as well as other industrial uses. Arcosa, Inc. was incorporated in 2018 and is headquartered in Dallas, Texas.

About Knife River

(Get Free Report)

Knife River Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides aggregates- led construction materials and contracting services in the United States. It operates through Pacific, Northwest, Mountain, Central, and Energy Services segments. The company mines, processes, and sells construction aggregates, including crushed stone and sand, and gravel; and produces and sells asphalt and ready-mix concrete. It also provides contracting service, such as heavy-civil construction, asphalt and concrete paving, and site development and grading. In addition, the company sells cement, merchandise, and other building materials and related services. The company sells its construction materials to public and private-sector customers, including federal, state, and municipal governments, as well as industrial, commercial and residential developers, and other private parties; and provides its contracting services to public-sector customers for the development and servicing of highways, local roads, bridges, and other public-infrastructure projects. Knife River Corporation was founded in 1917 and is based in Bismarck, North Dakota.

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LSV Asset Management lessened its position in Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated (NYSE:RGA  Free Report) by 13.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 175,004 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 26,332 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Management owned approximately 0.26% of Reinsurance Group of America worth $34,714,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of RGA. TCTC Holdings LLC lifted its position in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 107.2% during the first quarter. TCTC Holdings LLC now owns 172 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $34,000 after purchasing an additional 89 shares in the last quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC increased its stake in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 357.1% during the first quarter. Headlands Technologies LLC now owns 224 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $44,000 after buying an additional 175 shares during the period. SouthState Corp acquired a new stake in Reinsurance Group of America in the first quarter valued at approximately $48,000. Oakworth Capital Inc. lifted its stake in Reinsurance Group of America by 32.4% in the second quarter. Oakworth Capital Inc. now owns 245 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $49,000 after acquiring an additional 60 shares during the last quarter. Finally, IFP Advisors Inc raised its holdings in shares of Reinsurance Group of America by 93.9% in the 2nd quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 285 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $57,000 after purchasing an additional 138 shares in the last quarter. 95.11% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company reduced their price objective on shares of Reinsurance Group of America from $249.00 to $241.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a research report on Monday, August 4th. Raymond James Financial downgraded shares of Reinsurance Group of America from a market perform rating to an underperform rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Piper Sandler reiterated an overweight rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Reinsurance Group of America in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Morgan Stanley lowered their target price on Reinsurance Group of America from $210.00 to $195.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, August 18th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Reinsurance Group of America presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $239.89.

Reinsurance Group of America Price Performance

NYSE:RGA opened at $186.83 on Wednesday. Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated has a 12-month low of $159.25 and a 12-month high of $233.81. The firm has a market cap of $12.28 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.22 and a beta of 0.62. The companys 50-day moving average is $189.95 and its two-hundred day moving average is $194.01. The company has a current ratio of 0.16, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47.

Reinsurance Group of America (NYSE:RGA  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The insurance provider reported $6.37 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $5.80 by $0.57. Reinsurance Group of America had a net margin of 3.54% and a return on equity of 12.56%. The company had revenue of $6.20 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $6.02 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $6.13 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 9.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts expect that Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated will post 22.9 EPS for the current year.

Reinsurance Group of America Dividend Announcement

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, November 25th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, November 11th will be given a dividend of $0.93 per share. This represents a $3.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 10th. Reinsurance Group of Americas payout ratio is 28.62%.

About Reinsurance Group of America

(Free Report)

Reinsurance Group of America, Incorporated engages in reinsurance business. The company offers individual and group life and health insurance products, such as term life, credit life, universal life, whole life, group life and health, joint and last survivor insurance, critical illness, disability, and longevity products; asset-intensive and financial reinsurance products; and other capital motivated solutions.

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BANGKOK, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The death toll from ongoing floods across Thailand has reached 25, authorities said on Wednesday, as an estimated 444,000 people across 12 provinces remained affected by water runoff and river overflows.

According to the Department of Disaster Prevention and Mitigation, fatalities have been reported in five provinces, with 19 deaths recorded alone in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, north of Bangkok.

Despite water levels being stable and receding in most areas, the department said the disaster continued to impact over 132,000 households, and relief supplies, including survival kits and temporary shelters, were already distributed to inundated communities.

Meanwhile, the meteorological department has issued warnings that heavy rainfall through Sunday could result in flash floods and forest runoff in the southern region. 
Meridian Mining UK Societas (TSE:MNO  Get Free Report) shares hit a new 52-week high during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as C$1.40 and last traded at C$1.37, with a volume of 80145 shares. The stock had previously closed at C$1.37.

Meridian Mining UK Societas Stock Up 0.7%

The company has a market cap of C$568.88 million, a P/E ratio of -22.67 and a beta of 1.19. The company has a fifty day moving average of C$1.19 and a 200 day moving average of C$0.93.

About Meridian Mining UK Societas

(Get Free Report)

Meridian Mining UK Societas along with its subsidiaries engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and mining activities in Brazil. It focuses on exploring and developing the Espigao manganese project, the Ariquemes tin JV area, and adjacent areas in the state of Rondonia. It also undertakes the Cabacal Project, Mato Grosso.

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Meridian Wealth Management LLC decreased its position in shares of Occidental Petroleum Corporation (NYSE:OXY  Free Report) by 42.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 5,258 shares of the oil and gas producers stock after selling 3,915 shares during the period. Meridian Wealth Management LLCs holdings in Occidental Petroleum were worth $221,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. University of Texas Texas AM Investment Management Co. acquired a new stake in shares of Occidental Petroleum in the 2nd quarter valued at $27,000. Caitong International Asset Management Co. Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Occidental Petroleum during the 1st quarter worth $39,000. Hantz Financial Services Inc. lifted its position in shares of Occidental Petroleum by 1,193.9% during the 2nd quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 854 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $36,000 after buying an additional 788 shares during the last quarter. MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Occidental Petroleum by 371.7% in the second quarter. MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,000 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $42,000 after buying an additional 788 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Spectrum Wealth Counsel LLC grew its position in Occidental Petroleum by 5,000.0% in the first quarter. Spectrum Wealth Counsel LLC now owns 1,020 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $50,000 after acquiring an additional 1,000 shares during the last quarter. 88.70% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Occidental Petroleum Trading Up 2.0%

OXY opened at $42.53 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.84, a current ratio of 1.05 and a quick ratio of 0.83. Occidental Petroleum Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $34.78 and a fifty-two week high of $53.20. The companys 50 day moving average price is $43.61 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $43.77. The firm has a market capitalization of $41.90 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 25.17 and a beta of 0.91.

Occidental Petroleum Announces Dividend

Occidental Petroleum ( NYSE:OXY Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The oil and gas producer reported $0.64 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.48 by $0.16. The company had revenue of $6.62 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $6.66 billion. Occidental Petroleum had a net margin of 8.79% and a return on equity of 13.78%. Occidental Petroleums revenue was down 6.1% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.00 earnings per share. As a group, research analysts predict that Occidental Petroleum Corporation will post 3.58 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be paid a $0.24 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. This represents a $0.96 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.3%. Occidental Petroleums dividend payout ratio is presently 70.59%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts have recently commented on OXY shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $50.00 to $51.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. UBS Group lowered their price objective on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $46.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Occidental Petroleum in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Roth Capital boosted their target price on shares of Occidental Petroleum from $45.00 to $46.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 2nd. Finally, Evercore ISI dropped their price target on Occidental Petroleum from $40.00 to $38.00 and set an underperform rating for the company in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have assigned a Buy rating, fourteen have given a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $51.19.

View Our Latest Stock Report on Occidental Petroleum

Occidental Petroleum Profile

(Free Report)

Occidental Petroleum Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and development of oil and gas properties in the United States, the Middle East, and North Africa. It operates through three segments: Oil and Gas, Chemical, and Midstream and Marketing. The company's Oil and Gas segment explores for, develops, and produces oil and condensate, natural gas liquids (NGLs), and natural gas.

Further Reading

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Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Nabors Industries (NYSE:NBR  Free Report) from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report sent to investors on Sunday.

Several other equities research analysts also recently commented on the stock. Susquehanna reiterated a neutral rating and set a $56.00 price objective on shares of Nabors Industries in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Nabors Industries in a research note on Tuesday, November 11th. Citigroup reiterated a neutral rating and set a $58.00 price target (up previously from $38.00) on shares of Nabors Industries in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Barclays reissued an underweight rating and issued a $45.00 price objective (up from $36.00) on shares of Nabors Industries in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Finally, Piper Sandler reaffirmed an underweight rating and set a $32.00 target price (up previously from $30.00) on shares of Nabors Industries in a report on Thursday, August 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and three have given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Reduce and a consensus target price of $48.14.

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View Our Latest Research Report on Nabors Industries

Nabors Industries Price Performance

Shares of NYSE NBR opened at $46.88 on Friday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.50, a quick ratio of 1.63 and a current ratio of 2.09. The company has a market cap of $682.63 million, a PE ratio of 4.86 and a beta of 1.54. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $44.29 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $36.31. Nabors Industries has a fifty-two week low of $23.27 and a fifty-two week high of $78.97.

Nabors Industries (NYSE:NBR  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The oil and gas company reported ($3.67) EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($2.37) by ($1.30). The company had revenue of $818.19 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $824.61 million. Nabors Industries had a negative return on equity of 30.85% and a net margin of 7.08%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 11.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter last year, the business earned ($6.86) earnings per share. As a group, equities analysts expect that Nabors Industries will post -6.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity

In other news, major shareholder Varde Partners Inc sold 312,378 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $41.04, for a total value of $12,819,993.12. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 1,406,052 shares of the companys stock, valued at $57,704,374.08. The trade was a 18.18% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. 7.29% of the stock is currently owned by company insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Nomura Holdings Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Nabors Industries during the 1st quarter valued at approximately $2,676,000. MQS Management LLC purchased a new stake in Nabors Industries during the second quarter worth $262,000. Apollo Management Holdings L.P. grew its position in Nabors Industries by 26.2% during the first quarter. Apollo Management Holdings L.P. now owns 421,836 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $17,595,000 after buying an additional 87,552 shares during the period. Readystate Asset Management LP grew its position in Nabors Industries by 78.2% during the first quarter. Readystate Asset Management LP now owns 40,505 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $1,689,000 after buying an additional 17,780 shares during the period. Finally, Barings LLC purchased a new position in Nabors Industries in the first quarter valued at $8,864,000. 81.92% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

About Nabors Industries

(Get Free Report)

Nabors Industries Ltd. provides drilling and drilling-related services for land-based and offshore oil and natural gas wells in the United States and internationally. The company operates through four segments: U.S. Drilling, International Drilling, Drilling Solutions, and Rig Technologies. It provides tubular running services, including casing and tubing running, and torque monitoring; managed pressure drilling services; and drilling-bit steering systems and rig instrumentation software.

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TELUS (TSE:T  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TU) was upgraded by analysts at National Bankshares from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating in a report released on Wednesday,BayStreet.CA reports. The brokerage currently has a C$21.00 price target on the stock, down from their previous price target of C$23.00. National Bankshares price target would indicate a potential upside of 11.58% from the companys current price.

Several other equities analysts have also commented on T. Desjardins reduced their target price on shares of TELUS from C$25.00 to C$24.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, October 9th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered shares of TELUS from a neutral rating to an underweight rating and reduced their price target for the stock from C$22.00 to C$19.00 in a research note on Tuesday. Scotiabank lifted their price target on shares of TELUS from C$25.00 to C$26.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, September 8th. CIBC raised their price target on TELUS from C$24.00 to C$25.00 in a report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, BMO Capital Markets reduced their price objective on TELUS from C$24.00 to C$23.00 in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of C$22.77.

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View Our Latest Report on T

TELUS Price Performance

T stock traded down C$0.18 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching C$18.82. 8,572,745 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 4,229,367. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 183.41, a current ratio of 0.69 and a quick ratio of 0.52. TELUS has a 52 week low of C$18.68 and a 52 week high of C$23.29. The stock has a market capitalization of C$29.13 billion, a PE ratio of 24.13, a P/E/G ratio of 1.65 and a beta of 0.93. The company has a fifty day moving average price of C$21.25 and a 200 day moving average price of C$21.89.

TELUS (TSE:T  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TU) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 7th. The company reported C$0.32 EPS for the quarter. TELUS had a return on equity of 5.80% and a net margin of 4.62%.The firm had revenue of C$5.07 billion during the quarter. As a group, analysts expect that TELUS will post 1.2267985 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About TELUS

(Get Free Report)

Telus is one of the Big Three wireless service providers in Canada, with its 9 million mobile phone subscribers nationwide constituting about 30% of the total market. It is the incumbent local exchange carrier in the western Canadian provinces of British Columbia and Alberta, where it provides internet, television, and landline phone services.

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Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. trimmed its position in shares of HDFC Bank Limited (NYSE:HDB  Free Report) by 13.0% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 277,501 shares of the banks stock after selling 41,536 shares during the quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in HDFC Bank were worth $21,276,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of HDB. Central Pacific Bank Trust Division purchased a new stake in HDFC Bank during the second quarter valued at approximately $29,000. Roxbury Financial LLC purchased a new position in HDFC Bank in the second quarter worth $30,000. Larson Financial Group LLC increased its position in shares of HDFC Bank by 1,217.1% during the first quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 461 shares of the banks stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 426 shares in the last quarter. Whipplewood Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of HDFC Bank by 112.0% during the second quarter. Whipplewood Advisors LLC now owns 549 shares of the banks stock worth $42,000 after purchasing an additional 290 shares in the last quarter. Finally, NewSquare Capital LLC lifted its holdings in shares of HDFC Bank by 136.4% during the 2nd quarter. NewSquare Capital LLC now owns 676 shares of the banks stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 390 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 17.61% of the companys stock.

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HDFC Bank Price Performance

Shares of HDB stock opened at $37.15 on Wednesday. The business has a fifty day moving average of $35.63 and a 200 day moving average of $36.72. HDFC Bank Limited has a 1 year low of $28.89 and a 1 year high of $39.81. The firm has a market capitalization of $189.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 22.58, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.92 and a beta of 0.69.

Analyst Ratings Changes

HDFC Bank ( NYSE:HDB Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Saturday, October 18th. The bank reported $0.44 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.36 by $0.08. HDFC Bank had a return on equity of 11.49% and a net margin of 14.94%.The business had revenue of $4.95 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.98 billion. As a group, equities research analysts expect that HDFC Bank Limited will post 3.03 earnings per share for the current year.

Several research analysts recently weighed in on the company. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c) rating on shares of HDFC Bank in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen raised HDFC Bank from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, July 26th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded HDFC Bank from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 29th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on HDFC Bank

HDFC Bank Profile

(Free Report)

HDFC Bank Limited provides banking and financial services to individuals and businesses in India, Bahrain, Hong Kong, and Dubai. The company operates in three segments: Wholesale Banking, Retail Banking, and Treasury Services. It accepts savings, salary, current, rural, public provident fund, pension, and demat accounts; fixed and recurring deposits; and safe deposit lockers, as well as offshore accounts and deposits, and overdrafts against fixed deposits.

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Nordwand Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:AGG  Free Report) by 9,155.6% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 2,499 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 2,472 shares during the quarter. Nordwand Advisors LLCs holdings in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF were worth $248,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors have also added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Texas Yale Capital Corp. boosted its position in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 1.6% during the first quarter. Texas Yale Capital Corp. now owns 6,496 shares of the companys stock valued at $643,000 after buying an additional 103 shares during the last quarter. VAUGHAN & Co SECURITIES INC. lifted its stake in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 1.6% during the 2nd quarter. VAUGHAN & Co SECURITIES INC. now owns 6,539 shares of the companys stock valued at $649,000 after acquiring an additional 104 shares during the period. Fiera Capital Corp lifted its stake in iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 1.1% during the 2nd quarter. Fiera Capital Corp now owns 9,815 shares of the companys stock valued at $974,000 after acquiring an additional 105 shares during the period. Vestia Personal Wealth Advisors boosted its holdings in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 5.2% during the 2nd quarter. Vestia Personal Wealth Advisors now owns 2,167 shares of the companys stock valued at $215,000 after acquiring an additional 107 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Tempus Wealth Planning LLC grew its stake in shares of iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF by 3.0% in the first quarter. Tempus Wealth Planning LLC now owns 3,830 shares of the companys stock worth $379,000 after acquiring an additional 110 shares during the period. 83.63% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF Stock Up 0.1%

AGG opened at $100.08 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $100.46 and a 200-day moving average price of $99.13. iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF has a twelve month low of $95.74 and a twelve month high of $101.35. The stock has a market capitalization of $134.68 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 124.57 and a beta of 0.25.

About iShares Core U.S. Aggregate Bond ETF

IShares are index funds that are bought and sold like common stocks on national securities exchanges as well as certain foreign exchanges. iShares are attractive because of their relatively low cost, tax efficiency and trading flexibility. Investors can purchase and sell shares through any brokerage firm, financial advisor, or online broker, and hold the funds in any type of brokerage account.

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USA Compression Partners (NYSE:USAC  Get Free Report) and North American Construction Group (NYSE:NOA  Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the superior stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, institutional ownership, risk, valuation, dividends and profitability.

Insider and Institutional Ownership

47.8% of USA Compression Partners shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 75.0% of North American Construction Group shares are owned by institutional investors. 9.7% of North American Construction Group shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, hedge funds and large money managers believe a stock is poised for long-term growth.

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Volatility and Risk

USA Compression Partners has a beta of 0.36, indicating that its share price is 64% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, North American Construction Group has a beta of 1.29, indicating that its share price is 29% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets USA Compression Partners 10.99% -76.84% 4.23% North American Construction Group 2.82% 17.15% 4.16%

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares USA Compression Partners and North American Construction Groups net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

This table compares USA Compression Partners and North American Construction Groups revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio USA Compression Partners $991.51 million 2.89 $99.57 million $0.80 29.24 North American Construction Group $1.28 billion 0.31 $32.17 million $0.94 14.35

USA Compression Partners has higher earnings, but lower revenue than North American Construction Group. North American Construction Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than USA Compression Partners, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Analyst Recommendations

This is a summary of current ratings and recommmendations for USA Compression Partners and North American Construction Group, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score USA Compression Partners 1 3 0 1 2.20 North American Construction Group 0 7 0 0 2.00

USA Compression Partners presently has a consensus target price of $25.50, suggesting a potential upside of 9.03%. Given USA Compression Partners stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts plainly believe USA Compression Partners is more favorable than North American Construction Group.

Dividends

USA Compression Partners pays an annual dividend of $2.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 9.0%. North American Construction Group pays an annual dividend of $0.34 per share and has a dividend yield of 2.5%. USA Compression Partners pays out 262.5% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. North American Construction Group pays out 36.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. North American Construction Group has raised its dividend for 3 consecutive years.

Summary

USA Compression Partners beats North American Construction Group on 9 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About USA Compression Partners

(Get Free Report)

USA Compression Partners, LP provides compression services under term contracts with customers in the natural gas and crude oil industries in the United States. The company engineers, designs, operates, services, and repairs its compression units; and maintains related support inventory and equipment. It also provides compression services in various shale plays, including the Utica, Marcellus, Permian Basin, Delaware Basin, Eagle Ford, Mississippi Lime, Granite Wash, Woodford, Barnett, Haynesville, Niobrara, and Fayetteville shales. As of December 31, 2017, the company had approximately 1,799,781 horsepower in its fleet. It serves oil companies; and independent producers, processors, gatherers, and transporters of natural gas and crude oil. USA Compression GP, LLC operates as the general partner of USA Compression Partners, LP. The company was formerly known as Compression Holdings, LP, and changed its name to USA Compression Partners, LP in June 2011. USA Compression Partners, LP was founded in 1998 and is headquartered in Austin, Texas.

About North American Construction Group

(Get Free Report)

North American Construction Group Ltd. provides mining and heavy civil construction services to customers in the resource development and industrial construction sectors in Australia, Canada, and the United States. The company operates Heavy Equipment  Canada, Heavy Equipment  Australia, and Other segments. It also offers mine management services for thermal coal mines; and construction and operations support services in the Canadian oil sands region. In addition, the company provides fully maintained heavy equipment rentals and full service mine operations support at metallurgical and thermal coal mines; heavy equipment rentals to iron ore, gold and lithium producers; and heavy equipment maintenance, component remanufacturing, and full equipment rebuild services to mining companies and other heavy equipment operators, as well as supplies production-critical components to the mining and construction industry. As of December 31, 2023, it operated a heavy equipment fleet of 900 units. The company was formerly known as North American Energy Partners Inc. and changed its name to North American Construction Group Ltd. in April 2018. North American Construction Group Ltd. was incorporated in 1953 and is headquartered in Acheson, Canada.

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Chemring Group (LON:CHG  Get Free Report) had its target price lifted by analysts at Panmure Gordon from GBX 480 to GBX 537 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday,Digital Look reports. The brokerage currently has a buy rating on the stock. Panmure Gordons target price would indicate a potential upside of 6.38% from the companys current price.

Several other research firms also recently weighed in on CHG. Berenberg Bank boosted their target price on shares of Chemring Group from GBX 630 to GBX 670 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Jefferies Financial Group lifted their price objective on shares of Chemring Group from GBX 530 to GBX 640 and gave the company a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a GBX 600 price objective on shares of Chemring Group in a research note on Monday. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, Chemring Group currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of GBX 611.75.

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Chemring Group Stock Down 0.6%

Insider Buying and Selling at Chemring Group

LON CHG traded down GBX 3.23 during trading on Wednesday, hitting GBX 504.77. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,322,361 shares, compared to its average volume of 2,671,555. Chemring Group has a fifty-two week low of GBX 297.50 and a fifty-two week high of GBX 614. The company has a market cap of 1.36 billion, a PE ratio of 31.95, a P/E/G ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 0.68. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 27.42, a current ratio of 1.22 and a quick ratio of 0.71. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is GBX 560.98 and its 200-day simple moving average is GBX 537.71.

In related news, insider Pete Raby acquired 6,000 shares of Chemring Group stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 8th. The shares were acquired at an average cost of GBX 544 per share, for a total transaction of 32,640. Company insiders own 1.17% of the companys stock.

About Chemring Group

(Get Free Report)

We are a specialist manufacturing and technology business creating market-leading innovative solutions to meet our customers complex needs.

Using our extensive science and engineering expertise, we turn ideas into reality, designing and developing critical solutions that protect and safeguard in unpredictable environments in todays increasingly unstable world.

We achieve this by innovating at every stage of the value chain, from research and development (R&D) through to design, manufacture and in-service support, working closely with our customers to deliver products, services and solutions for mission-critical success.

Our customer base spans national defence organisations, security and law enforcement agencies, as well as commercial markets such as space and transport.

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Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) fell 2% on Wednesday . The company traded as low as $24.72 and last traded at $24.93. 61,087,217 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 19% from the average session volume of 51,485,266 shares. The stock had previously closed at $25.45.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities research analysts recently issued reports on the company. Wall Street Zen downgraded Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, September 28th. Morgan Stanley dropped their target price on Pfizer from $33.00 to $32.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Citigroup increased their price target on shares of Pfizer from $25.00 to $26.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 6th. UBS Group reissued a neutral rating and issued a $28.00 price objective on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Finally, Scotiabank began coverage on shares of Pfizer in a report on Thursday, November 13th. They issued a sector outperform rating and a $30.00 price objective for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating, twelve have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $28.28.

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Check Out Our Latest Research Report on PFE

Pfizer Stock Down 2.0%

The firm has a market cap of $141.74 billion, a PE ratio of 13.26, a PEG ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.54. The company has a current ratio of 1.16, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65. The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $24.82 and a 200-day moving average price of $24.46.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.87 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by $0.08. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. The firm had revenue of $16.65 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.94 billion. Pfizer has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.000-3.150 EPS. Research analysts forecast that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Pfizer Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Stockholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be given a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. Pfizers payout ratio is 100.00%.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Pfizer

Several large investors have recently bought and sold shares of PFE. Capital Advisory Group Advisory Services LLC boosted its stake in Pfizer by 2.9% during the 2nd quarter. Capital Advisory Group Advisory Services LLC now owns 13,542 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $328,000 after purchasing an additional 388 shares during the last quarter. Citizens National Bank Trust Department boosted its position in shares of Pfizer by 0.9% during the second quarter. Citizens National Bank Trust Department now owns 46,103 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,118,000 after buying an additional 395 shares during the last quarter. Peak Asset Management LLC increased its holdings in Pfizer by 1.4% in the 2nd quarter. Peak Asset Management LLC now owns 28,768 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $697,000 after buying an additional 402 shares in the last quarter. Quest Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in Pfizer by 1.3% in the 3rd quarter. Quest Investment Management LLC now owns 31,768 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $809,000 after buying an additional 405 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Community Bank & Trust Waco Texas raised its position in Pfizer by 0.6% in the 3rd quarter. Community Bank & Trust Waco Texas now owns 66,841 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,703,000 after buying an additional 412 shares during the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock.

About Pfizer

(Get Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. lessened its stake in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD  Free Report) by 14.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 6,313 shares of the consumer goods makers stock after selling 1,062 shares during the quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc.s holdings in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV were worth $434,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also bought and sold shares of the company. Dodge & Cox raised its stake in shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV by 2.8% in the first quarter. Dodge & Cox now owns 41,116,138 shares of the consumer goods makers stock valued at $2,531,109,000 after buying an additional 1,119,308 shares during the period. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV by 7.3% during the 1st quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 2,790,240 shares of the consumer goods makers stock worth $171,767,000 after acquiring an additional 190,830 shares during the period. Clarkston Capital Partners LLC increased its holdings in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV by 0.3% in the 1st quarter. Clarkston Capital Partners LLC now owns 1,498,297 shares of the consumer goods makers stock worth $92,235,000 after acquiring an additional 4,455 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its stake in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV by 25.3% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,318,248 shares of the consumer goods makers stock valued at $81,151,000 after acquiring an additional 265,783 shares during the period. Finally, Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV by 14.0% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 967,550 shares of the consumer goods makers stock valued at $59,562,000 after acquiring an additional 118,775 shares during the period. 5.53% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of brokerages have weighed in on BUD. Sanford C. Bernstein reiterated a buy rating on shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. UBS Group reiterated a buy rating on shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV in a research note on Friday, October 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a buy rating on shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV in a report on Friday, October 31st. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, DZ Bank reiterated a buy rating on shares of Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV in a research report on Friday, November 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have given a Buy rating and three have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $71.00.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV Stock Performance

NYSE BUD opened at $61.16 on Wednesday. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $60.70 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $64.43. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.79, a current ratio of 0.64 and a quick ratio of 0.48. Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV has a 1 year low of $45.94 and a 1 year high of $72.13. The stock has a market capitalization of $119.42 billion, a PE ratio of 17.18, a P/E/G ratio of 1.75 and a beta of 0.76.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV (NYSE:BUD  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The consumer goods maker reported $0.99 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.97 by $0.02. Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV had a net margin of 12.16% and a return on equity of 16.21%. Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NVs revenue for the quarter was up .6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.98 earnings per share. Analysts predict that Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV will post 3.37 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 17th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, November 19th will be paid a $0.1722 dividend. This represents a yield of 56.0%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, November 19th. Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NVs dividend payout ratio is currently 7.84%.

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV Profile

(Free Report)

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV produces, distributes, exports, markets, and sells beer and beverages. It offers a portfolio of approximately 500 beer brands, which primarily include Budweiser, Corona, and Stella Artois; Beck's, Hoegaarden, Leffe, and Michelob Ultra; and Aguila, Antarctica, Bud Light, Brahma, Cass, Castle, Castle Lite, Cristal, Harbin, Jupiler, Modelo Especial, Quilmes, Victoria, Sedrin, and Skol brands.

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Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, holds the first China-Kyrgyzstan foreign ministers' strategic dialogue with Kyrgyz Foreign Minister Jeenbek Kulubaev in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, Nov. 19, 2025. (Photo by Roman/Xinhua)

BISHKEK, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi and his Kyrgyz counterpart, Jeenbek Kulubaev, held their first strategic dialogue here on Wednesday.

Wang, also a member of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, said the establishment of the strategic dialogue mechanism is a concrete step in implementing the consensus reached by the two heads of state, which will help further strengthen strategic mutual trust, enhance strategic coordination and promote strategic cooperation.

Wang said that jointly building a China-Kyrgyzstan community with a shared future characterized by good-neighborliness, friendship and common prosperity meets the fundamental interests of both countries and reflects the aspirations of their people.

China is ready to deepen communication and coordination with Kyrgyzstan on international affairs and fully supports Kyrgyzstan in assuming the rotating chair of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Wang added.

Kulubaev said Kyrgyzstan adheres to the one-China principle and is ready to work with China to advance Belt and Road cooperation, deepen cooperation in trade and investment, agriculture and mining, connectivity and other areas, accelerate the construction of the China-Kyrgyzstan-Uzbekistan railway, and strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges.

Kyrgyzstan is ready to closely cooperate with China to actively implement the four global initiatives put forward by the Chinese side, strengthen coordination within the UN, and promote the further development of the China-Central Asia mechanism.

After the talks, the two sides signed a joint statement on the outcomes of the first foreign ministers' strategic dialogue and a cooperation program for 2026-2027 between the two foreign ministries. 
Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. increased its stake in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc (NYSE:SMFG  Free Report) by 10.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 35,578 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 3,335 shares during the quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc.s holdings in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group were worth $538,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 0.5% during the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 11,271,361 shares of the banks stock valued at $174,255,000 after purchasing an additional 53,612 shares during the period. Clark Capital Management Group Inc. increased its position in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 1.8% in the 1st quarter. Clark Capital Management Group Inc. now owns 6,496,260 shares of the banks stock valued at $100,432,000 after buying an additional 111,952 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 3.2% during the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 5,188,817 shares of the banks stock worth $80,219,000 after buying an additional 159,320 shares during the period. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its holdings in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 19.7% in the second quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 2,302,411 shares of the banks stock worth $34,789,000 after acquiring an additional 378,909 shares in the last quarter. Finally, American Century Companies Inc. grew its stake in Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group by 5.9% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 1,605,115 shares of the banks stock valued at $24,815,000 after acquiring an additional 89,792 shares during the period. 3.85% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Stock Down 2.5%

Shares of NYSE:SMFG opened at $16.89 on Wednesday. The businesss 50 day moving average is $16.41 and its 200 day moving average is $15.74. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc has a 12-month low of $11.83 and a 12-month high of $17.58. The stock has a market cap of $108.55 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.77, a PEG ratio of 0.78 and a beta of 0.36. The company has a quick ratio of 1.03, a current ratio of 1.03 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.75.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group ( NYSE:SMFG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Friday, November 14th. The bank reported $0.59 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.40 by $0.19. Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group had a return on equity of 7.88% and a net margin of 11.78%.The business had revenue of $8.15 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.41 billion. On average, sell-side analysts forecast that Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc will post 0.39 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on SMFG shares. Wall Street Zen raised Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, August 2nd. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Get Our Latest Stock Analysis on SMFG

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, provides banking, leasing, securities, credit card, and consumer finance services in Japan, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and Oceania. It operates through Wholesale Business Unit, Retail Business Unit, Global Business Unit, and Global Markets Business Unit segments.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding SMFG? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc (NYSE:SMFG  Free Report).

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FineMark National Bank & Trust reduced its stake in Quanta Services, Inc. (NYSE:PWR  Free Report) by 18.9% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The fund owned 66,914 shares of the construction companys stock after selling 15,642 shares during the quarter. Quanta Services accounts for 0.9% of FineMark National Bank & Trusts portfolio, making the stock its 22nd largest position. FineMark National Bank & Trusts holdings in Quanta Services were worth $25,299,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Aspen Investment Management Inc boosted its position in shares of Quanta Services by 11.2% during the second quarter. Aspen Investment Management Inc now owns 3,397 shares of the construction companys stock worth $1,284,000 after buying an additional 341 shares during the period. Highview Capital Management LLC DE lifted its stake in Quanta Services by 2.0% during the 2nd quarter. Highview Capital Management LLC DE now owns 6,124 shares of the construction companys stock worth $2,315,000 after acquiring an additional 120 shares in the last quarter. Wealthspire Advisors LLC boosted its holdings in Quanta Services by 5.3% during the 2nd quarter. Wealthspire Advisors LLC now owns 2,001 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $756,000 after acquiring an additional 100 shares during the period. Pin Oak Investment Advisors Inc. grew its position in Quanta Services by 595.0% in the 2nd quarter. Pin Oak Investment Advisors Inc. now owns 278 shares of the construction companys stock valued at $105,000 after acquiring an additional 238 shares in the last quarter. Finally, PFG Private Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in Quanta Services by 4.1% during the second quarter. PFG Private Wealth Management LLC now owns 808 shares of the construction companys stock worth $305,000 after purchasing an additional 32 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.49% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have recently commented on the stock. Stifel Nicolaus set a $495.00 price objective on shares of Quanta Services in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Argus set a $540.00 price target on shares of Quanta Services in a research note on Friday, October 31st. TD Cowen upped their price objective on Quanta Services from $355.00 to $425.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 5th. Daiwa America lowered Quanta Services from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Finally, Mizuho set a $415.00 price target on Quanta Services in a report on Tuesday, October 28th. Twelve equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and thirteen have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Quanta Services currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $438.64.

Quanta Services Stock Performance

NYSE:PWR opened at $439.09 on Wednesday. Quanta Services, Inc. has a 12 month low of $227.08 and a 12 month high of $469.43. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59, a current ratio of 1.37 and a quick ratio of 1.32. The firm has a market capitalization of $65.48 billion, a PE ratio of 67.97, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.66 and a beta of 1.10. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $423.47 and its 200 day moving average price is $389.06.

Quanta Services (NYSE:PWR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The construction company reported $3.33 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $3.24 by $0.09. Quanta Services had a return on equity of 18.41% and a net margin of 3.73%.The business had revenue of $7.63 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $7.41 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $2.72 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 17.5% compared to the same quarter last year. Quanta Services has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.330-10.830 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts anticipate that Quanta Services, Inc. will post 9.34 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Quanta Services Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 10th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, October 1st were issued a dividend of $0.10 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, October 1st. This represents a $0.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.1%. Quanta Servicess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 5.93%.

Insider Activity at Quanta Services

In other Quanta Services news, insider Gerald A. Ducey, Jr. sold 7,653 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $446.08, for a total value of $3,413,850.24. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 19,960 shares in the company, valued at $8,903,756.80. This represents a 27.72% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Bernard Fried sold 4,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 3rd. The stock was sold at an average price of $452.19, for a total value of $1,808,760.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 12,493 shares in the company, valued at approximately $5,649,209.67. The trade was a 24.25% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold a total of 32,002 shares of company stock worth $14,295,857 over the last 90 days. 1.10% of the stock is owned by corporate insiders.

About Quanta Services

(Free Report)

Quanta Services, Inc provides infrastructure solutions for the electric and gas utility, renewable energy, communications, and pipeline and energy industries in the United States, Canada, Australia, and internationally. The companys Electric Power Infrastructure Solutions segment engages in the design, procurement, construction, upgrade, repair, and maintenance of electric power transmission and distribution infrastructure and substation facilities; installation, maintenance, and upgrade of electric power infrastructure projects; installation of smart grid technologies on electric power networks; and design, installation, maintenance, and repair of commercial and industrial wirings.

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A number of firms have modified their ratings and price targets on shares of Hecla Mining (NYSE: HL) recently:

11/13/2025  Hecla Mining had its buy (b-) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

11/13/2025  Hecla Mining is now covered by analysts at Scotiabank. They set a sector perform rating and a $15.00 price target on the stock.

11/7/2025  Hecla Mining was upgraded by analysts at Weiss Ratings from a hold (c) rating to a buy (b-) rating.

11/6/2025  Hecla Mining had its price target raised by analysts at HC Wainwright from $12.50 to $16.50. They now have a buy rating on the stock.

11/2/2025  Hecla Mining was upgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a hold rating to a buy rating.

10/25/2025  Hecla Mining was downgraded by analysts at Wall Street Zen from a buy rating to a hold rating.

10/10/2025  Hecla Mining had its price target raised by analysts at CIBC from $12.50 to $15.00. They now have a neutral rating on the stock.

10/8/2025  Hecla Mining had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

10/3/2025  Hecla Mining was given a new $8.75 price target on by analysts at Roth Capital. They now have a sell rating on the stock.

10/3/2025  Hecla Mining was downgraded by analysts at Roth Capital from a neutral rating to a sell rating. They now have a $8.75 price target on the stock.

9/27/2025  Hecla Mining had its hold (c) rating reaffirmed by analysts at Weiss Ratings.

Hecla Mining Announces Dividend

The company also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 8th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 24th will be given a dividend of $0.0038 per share. This represents a $0.02 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 24th. Hecla Minings payout ratio is 3.23%.

Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Russell Douglas Lawlar sold 18,535 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $15.02, for a total transaction of $278,395.70. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at the SEC website. Also, VP Stuart Maurice Absolom sold 14,472 shares of Hecla Mining stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $11.29, for a total transaction of $163,388.88. Following the transaction, the vice president directly owned 73,200 shares in the company, valued at approximately $826,428. This trade represents a 16.51% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Insiders have sold 181,379 shares of company stock valued at $2,667,365 over the last 90 days. 0.62% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Hecla Mining Company, together with its subsidiaries, provides precious and base metal properties in the United States, Canada, Japan, Korea, and China. The company mines for silver, gold, lead, and zinc concentrates, as well as carbon material containing silver and gold for custom smelters, metal traders, and third-party processors; and dore containing silver and gold.

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Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc. (NYSE:NMG  Free Report)  Roth Capital lifted their Q4 2025 earnings estimates for Nouveau Monde Graphite in a research report issued on Thursday, November 13th. Roth Capital analyst J. Reagor now anticipates that the company will post earnings of ($0.07) per share for the quarter, up from their previous forecast of ($0.09). Roth Capital has a Buy rating and a $4.70 price objective on the stock. The consensus estimate for Nouveau Monde Graphites current full-year earnings is ($0.47) per share. Roth Capital also issued estimates for Nouveau Monde Graphites Q1 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS, Q2 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS, Q3 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS, Q4 2026 earnings at ($0.06) EPS and FY2026 earnings at ($0.22) EPS.

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Nouveau Monde Graphite (NYSE:NMG  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported ($0.06) earnings per share for the quarter, meeting the consensus estimate of ($0.06).

NMG has been the topic of several other reports. Zacks Research downgraded Nouveau Monde Graphite from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. HC Wainwright increased their price target on Nouveau Monde Graphite from $2.75 to $7.50 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 15th. National Bankshares raised Nouveau Monde Graphite to an outperform rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Wall Street Zen downgraded Nouveau Monde Graphite to a strong sell rating in a research note on Saturday, November 1st. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Nouveau Monde Graphite in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $4.87.

Read Our Latest Analysis on Nouveau Monde Graphite

Nouveau Monde Graphite Stock Performance

Nouveau Monde Graphite stock opened at $2.67 on Monday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.04, a current ratio of 0.62 and a quick ratio of 0.62. The firms fifty day moving average price is $2.82 and its 200 day moving average price is $2.18. The company has a market capitalization of $406.30 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of -4.04 and a beta of 0.86. Nouveau Monde Graphite has a 12-month low of $1.22 and a 12-month high of $6.06.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of NMG. Susquehanna International Group LLP acquired a new position in shares of Nouveau Monde Graphite during the third quarter valued at $96,000. Millennium Management LLC bought a new position in Nouveau Monde Graphite in the 3rd quarter valued at about $196,000. Financial Sense Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Nouveau Monde Graphite during the 3rd quarter worth about $256,000. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new stake in shares of Nouveau Monde Graphite in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $58,000. Finally, K.J. Harrison & Partners Inc acquired a new stake in shares of Nouveau Monde Graphite in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $269,000. Institutional investors own 41.09% of the companys stock.

About Nouveau Monde Graphite

(Get Free Report)

Nouveau Monde Graphite Inc engages in the acquisition, exploration, development, and evaluation of mineral properties in Quebec, Canada. It primarily explores for graphite. The companys flagship property is the 100% owned Matawinie graphite property including 176 mining claims covering an area of 9,264 hectares located in Quebec.

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Sixth Street Specialty Lending (NYSE:TSLX  Get Free Report) had its target price lowered by equities research analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $25.00 to $24.00 in a research note issued to investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The firm presently has an outperform rating on the financial services providers stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas price objective suggests a potential upside of 14.89% from the companys previous close.

Several other research analysts also recently weighed in on the stock. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $24.00 target price on shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. JMP Securities upped their price target on shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending from $24.00 to $25.00 and gave the company a market outperform rating in a research note on Wednesday, August 6th. Wells Fargo & Company cut their target price on Sixth Street Specialty Lending from $24.00 to $22.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods decreased their target price on Sixth Street Specialty Lending from $24.00 to $23.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have issued a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Sixth Street Specialty Lending currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $23.50.

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Read Our Latest Research Report on Sixth Street Specialty Lending

Sixth Street Specialty Lending Stock Performance

NYSE TSLX traded up $0.01 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $20.89. 100,755 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 480,622. Sixth Street Specialty Lending has a 52 week low of $18.58 and a 52 week high of $25.17. The firm has a market capitalization of $1.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 10.38 and a beta of 0.84. The company has a current ratio of 3.79, a quick ratio of 3.79 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.07. The businesss fifty day moving average price is $22.30 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $23.13.

Sixth Street Specialty Lending (NYSE:TSLX  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The financial services provider reported $0.53 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.52 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $109.40 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $108.35 million. Sixth Street Specialty Lending had a net margin of 39.56% and a return on equity of 13.47%. During the same quarter last year, the company posted $0.57 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Sixth Street Specialty Lending will post 2.19 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the company. Advisory Services Network LLC purchased a new stake in Sixth Street Specialty Lending during the third quarter valued at approximately $75,000. NewEdge Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending by 647.2% during the third quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 12,493 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $286,000 after purchasing an additional 10,821 shares in the last quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co increased its position in shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending by 16.7% during the third quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co now owns 158,713 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,620,000 after purchasing an additional 22,659 shares in the last quarter. Caxton Associates LLP purchased a new stake in shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending during the 3rd quarter valued at $268,000. Finally, Qube Research & Technologies Ltd boosted its position in shares of Sixth Street Specialty Lending by 41.9% in the 3rd quarter. Qube Research & Technologies Ltd now owns 72,070 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,648,000 after purchasing an additional 21,296 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.25% of the companys stock.

About Sixth Street Specialty Lending

(Get Free Report)

Sixth Street Specialty Lending, Inc (NYSE: TSLX) is a business development company. The fund provides senior secured loans (first-lien, second-lien, and unitranche), unsecured loans, mezzanine debt, and investments in corporate bonds and equity securities and structured products, non-control structured equity, and common equity with a focus on co-investments for organic growth, acquisitions, market or product expansion, restructuring initiatives, recapitalizations, and refinancing.

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Savant Capital LLC lowered its stake in shares of Seadrill Limited (NYSE:SDRL  Free Report) by 31.2% in the second quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 11,163 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after selling 5,061 shares during the period. Savant Capital LLCs holdings in Seadrill were worth $293,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. CWM LLC lifted its stake in Seadrill by 30.8% during the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 3,585 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $90,000 after purchasing an additional 845 shares in the last quarter. LPL Financial LLC lifted its stake in Seadrill by 73.9% during the 1st quarter. LPL Financial LLC now owns 100,062 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $2,502,000 after acquiring an additional 42,519 shares in the last quarter. GSA Capital Partners LLP acquired a new position in Seadrill during the 1st quarter worth about $1,491,000. XTX Topco Ltd boosted its holdings in Seadrill by 232.2% during the 1st quarter. XTX Topco Ltd now owns 17,741 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $444,000 after acquiring an additional 12,401 shares during the period. Finally, Monaco Asset Management SAM acquired a new position in Seadrill in the 1st quarter valued at about $5,000,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 95.67% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

SDRL has been the topic of several research reports. Zacks Research cut shares of Seadrill from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. BWS Financial reiterated a buy rating and set a $80.00 target price on shares of Seadrill in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Fearnley Fonds cut shares of Seadrill from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Dnb Carnegie raised Seadrill to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, SEB Equity Research set a $33.00 price objective on Seadrill in a research note on Monday, September 1st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, two have issued a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Seadrill currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $43.00.

Seadrill Stock Up 2.6%

Shares of Seadrill stock opened at $31.44 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.87, a current ratio of 1.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21. Seadrill Limited has a 52-week low of $17.74 and a 52-week high of $41.84. The company has a market capitalization of $1.96 billion, a P/E ratio of 28.07 and a beta of 1.59. The company has a 50 day moving average of $31.07 and a 200 day moving average of $29.01.

Seadrill (NYSE:SDRL  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The oil and gas company reported ($0.17) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.26 by ($0.43). The firm had revenue of $363.00 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $343.56 million. Seadrill had a net margin of 5.68% and a return on equity of 1.58%. Seadrill has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. As a group, research analysts forecast that Seadrill Limited will post 1.86 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Seadrill

(Free Report)

Seadrill Ltd. engages in the provision of offshore drilling services to the oil and gas industry. It operates through the following segments: Floaters, Jack-up rigs, and Other. The Floaters segment encompasses drilling, completion, and maintenance of offshore exploration and production wells. the Jack-up Rigs segment includes drilling contracts relate to jack-up rigs for operations in harsh and benign environments in shallow water.

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SG Americas Securities LLC reduced its position in shares of OGE Energy Corporation (NYSE:OGE  Free Report) by 37.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 58,202 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 34,288 shares during the quarter. SG Americas Securities LLCs holdings in OGE Energy were worth $2,583,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds also recently modified their holdings of the company. Sigma Planning Corp purchased a new position in shares of OGE Energy during the first quarter valued at $227,000. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC purchased a new stake in OGE Energy in the 1st quarter worth about $6,980,000. Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new stake in OGE Energy during the 1st quarter worth about $310,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH purchased a new position in OGE Energy during the 1st quarter valued at about $1,462,000. Finally, Oak Thistle LLC increased its holdings in shares of OGE Energy by 7.6% in the 1st quarter. Oak Thistle LLC now owns 17,901 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $823,000 after purchasing an additional 1,271 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 71.84% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

OGE has been the subject of several research reports. Barclays raised their price target on shares of OGE Energy from $47.00 to $51.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Mizuho lifted their target price on shares of OGE Energy from $45.00 to $47.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a buy (b) rating on shares of OGE Energy in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen raised OGE Energy from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, September 7th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada upgraded OGE Energy to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Five investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, OGE Energy has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $48.75.

OGE Energy Stock Down 1.2%

OGE Energy stock opened at $44.05 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 0.78, a quick ratio of 0.48 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.16. OGE Energy Corporation has a 1-year low of $39.41 and a 1-year high of $47.33. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $45.22 and its 200-day simple moving average is $44.76. The company has a market capitalization of $8.87 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.69, a P/E/G ratio of 3.08 and a beta of 0.60.

OGE Energy (NYSE:OGE  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The utilities provider reported $1.14 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.16 by ($0.02). OGE Energy had a return on equity of 10.86% and a net margin of 15.28%.The business had revenue of $1.05 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $1.04 billion. During the same period in the previous year, the company earned $1.09 earnings per share. The companys quarterly revenue was up 8.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts forecast that OGE Energy Corporation will post 2.27 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

OGE Energy Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Investors of record on Monday, October 6th were paid a $0.425 dividend. This represents a $1.70 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, October 6th. This is a positive change from OGE Energys previous quarterly dividend of $0.42. OGE Energys dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 68.27%.

OGE Energy Profile

(Free Report)

OGE Energy Corp., together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy services provider in the United States. The company generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electric energy. In addition, it provides retail electric service to approximately 896,000 customers, which covers a service area of approximately 30,000 square miles in Oklahoma and western Arkansas; and owns and operates coal-fired, natural gas-fired, wind-powered, and solar-powered generating assets.

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Shimano Inc. Unsponsored ADR (OTCMKTS:SMNNY  Get Free Report)s share price reached a new 52-week low on Monday . The stock traded as low as $9.67 and last traded at $9.97, with a volume of 110135 shares changing hands. The stock had previously closed at $10.35.

Shimano Price Performance

The companys 50-day moving average price is $10.99 and its 200-day moving average price is $12.34. The company has a market cap of $8.66 billion, a P/E ratio of 26.68 and a beta of 0.62.

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Shimano (OTCMKTS:SMNNY  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $0.09 earnings per share for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $770.46 million during the quarter. Shimano had a net margin of 10.72% and a return on equity of 5.93%.

About Shimano

Shimano Inc develops, produces, and distributes bicycle components, fishing tackles, and rowing equipment. It has operations in Japan, Asia, Europe, North America, Latin America, and Oceania. Shimano Inc was founded in 1921 and is headquartered in Sakai, Japan.

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Creative Planning lifted its position in shares of SLB Limited (NYSE:SLB  Free Report) by 19.0% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor owned 254,211 shares of the oil and gas companys stock after buying an additional 40,591 shares during the quarter. Creative Plannings holdings in SLB were worth $8,592,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of SLB by 478.8% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 47,719,476 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $1,994,674,000 after purchasing an additional 39,474,501 shares during the period. Boston Partners increased its stake in SLB by 27.7% in the first quarter. Boston Partners now owns 19,829,381 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $824,160,000 after purchasing an additional 4,300,222 shares during the last quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC increased its stake in SLB by 211.1% in the first quarter. Hotchkis & Wiley Capital Management LLC now owns 5,992,997 shares of the oil and gas companys stock valued at $250,507,000 after purchasing an additional 4,066,500 shares during the last quarter. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in SLB during the first quarter worth about $169,232,000. Finally, Banque Transatlantique SA boosted its stake in SLB by 21,737.8% in the 1st quarter. Banque Transatlantique SA now owns 1,859,274 shares of the oil and gas companys stock worth $71,821,000 after buying an additional 1,850,760 shares during the last quarter. 81.99% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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SLB Stock Performance

Shares of SLB stock opened at $36.03 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day simple moving average is $35.04 and its 200-day simple moving average is $34.80. The company has a current ratio of 1.39, a quick ratio of 1.01 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.40. SLB Limited has a 52 week low of $31.11 and a 52 week high of $44.97. The company has a market cap of $53.83 billion, a PE ratio of 13.91, a P/E/G ratio of 10.19 and a beta of 0.97.

SLB Dividend Announcement

SLB ( NYSE:SLB Get Free Report ) last released its quarterly earnings data on Friday, October 17th. The oil and gas company reported $0.69 EPS for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.67 by $0.02. SLB had a return on equity of 18.97% and a net margin of 10.34%.The company had revenue of $8.93 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $8.99 billion. During the same period last year, the company posted $0.89 earnings per share. The firms revenue was down 2.5% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts anticipate that SLB Limited will post 3.38 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 8th. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 3rd will be given a $0.285 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 3rd. This represents a $1.14 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.2%. SLBs dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 44.02%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on SLB shares. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of SLB from $46.00 to $48.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. UBS Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $44.00 price target on shares of SLB in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c-) rating on shares of SLB in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Melius initiated coverage on SLB in a research report on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $82.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Zacks Research raised SLB from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, September 15th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have issued a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $51.28.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on SLB

Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Stephane Biguet sold 38,447 shares of SLB stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $36.75, for a total value of $1,412,927.25. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 175,690 shares in the company, valued at approximately $6,456,607.50. The trade was a 17.95% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this link. Also, insider Dianne B. Ralston sold 39,727 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, September 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $36.08, for a total transaction of $1,433,350.16. Following the transaction, the insider directly owned 202,201 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $7,295,412.08. This represents a 16.42% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this sale is available in the SEC filing. Insiders have sold 138,174 shares of company stock worth $5,107,677 over the last 90 days. Company insiders own 0.22% of the companys stock.

SLB Company Profile

(Free Report)

Schlumberger Limited engages in the provision of technology for the energy industry worldwide. The company operates through four divisions: Digital & Integration, Reservoir Performance, Well Construction, and Production Systems. The company provides field development and hydrocarbon production, carbon management, and integration of adjacent energy systems; reservoir interpretation and data processing services for exploration data; and well construction and production improvement services and products.

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Smurfit Westrock PLC (NYSE:SW  Get Free Report)s share price hit a new 52-week low during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $33.60 and last traded at $33.84, with a volume of 6320997 shares. The stock had previously closed at $33.92.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages recently issued reports on SW. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lifted their target price on Smurfit Westrock from $60.00 to $61.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Barclays cut their price objective on shares of Smurfit Westrock from $63.00 to $47.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a report on Monday, November 10th. Truist Financial lowered their target price on shares of Smurfit Westrock from $55.00 to $50.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Thursday, October 30th. Morgan Stanley reissued an overweight rating and set a $52.00 price target on shares of Smurfit Westrock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, UBS Group initiated coverage on shares of Smurfit Westrock in a research report on Monday, September 15th. They issued a buy rating and a $60.00 price objective for the company. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have issued a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $55.30.

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Smurfit Westrock Stock Down 0.2%

The company has a market capitalization of $17.67 billion, a PE ratio of 23.66 and a beta of 1.12. The stocks fifty day moving average is $40.68 and its two-hundred day moving average is $43.31. The company has a current ratio of 1.48, a quick ratio of 0.95 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.72.

Smurfit Westrock (NYSE:SW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.58 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.68 by ($0.10). Smurfit Westrock had a return on equity of 6.21% and a net margin of 2.40%.The company had revenue of $8 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $7.89 billion. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 4.3% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, analysts predict that Smurfit Westrock PLC will post 3.25 EPS for the current year.

Smurfit Westrock Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 18th. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $0.4308 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.1%. Smurfit Westrocks dividend payout ratio is presently 120.28%.

Institutional Trading of Smurfit Westrock

Several hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in the company. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. grew its stake in shares of Smurfit Westrock by 113.3% during the 3rd quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. now owns 640 shares of the companys stock worth $27,000 after acquiring an additional 340 shares during the period. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT purchased a new stake in Smurfit Westrock during the first quarter valued at about $29,000. CYBER HORNET ETFs LLC bought a new position in Smurfit Westrock during the second quarter worth about $29,000. IMA Advisory Services Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Smurfit Westrock in the first quarter worth about $30,000. Finally, Root Financial Partners LLC bought a new stake in shares of Smurfit Westrock in the third quarter valued at approximately $33,000. 83.38% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Smurfit Westrock

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Smurfit Westrock Plc, together with its subsidiaries, manufactures, distributes, and sells containerboard, corrugated containers, and other paper-based packaging products in Ireland and internationally. The company produces containerboard that it converts into corrugated containers or sells to third parties, as well as produces other types of paper, such as consumer packaging board, sack paper, graphic paper, solid board and graphic board, and other paper-based packaging products, such as consumer packaging, solid board packaging, paper sacks, and other packaging products, including bag-in-box.

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by Xinhua writers Zhang Chaoqun, He Yiran, Zhao Yilin

MOSCOW, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Amid the melodious tunes played by the balalaika and pipa at the State Tretyakov Gallery in Moscow, the 2024-2025 China-Russia Years of Culture have drawn to a graceful close, highlighting growing cultural ties between the two nations.

The program featured more than 400 cultural events in both countries, "vividly showcasing the depth and vitality of our cultural cooperation," said Zhanna Alexeyeva, Russia's state secretary and deputy minister of culture, at the closing ceremony on Monday.

In early 2025, Moscow hosted the "Chinese New Year in Moscow" festival at Manezhnaya Square, followed by Chinese-themed events at two dozen venues across the capital. Participation reached about 1.5 million, doubling last year's number. In addition, a Chinese New Year-themed metro train marked the celebration of the Spring Festival.

Joint concerts, exhibitions and youth programs boosted mutual understanding. Chinese and Russian orchestras performed classical works from both nations to enthusiastic audience responses.

"We hope to see more Chinese and Russian ensembles onstage and performing for wider audiences," said Luan Dong, head of the Chinese Orchestra at the China National Opera and Dance Drama Theater.

Film cooperation also surged. The co-produced movie "Red Silk," shot in both countries, was released in Russia in February and in China in September. It resonated strongly with viewers and helped strengthen cultural bonds.

The 2025 China Film Festival was held in major Russian cities, including Moscow, St. Petersburg and Kazan, while the 2025 Russia Film Festival took place in Beijing and two other Chinese provincial capitals, Xining and Lanzhou.

A series of joint exhibitions and performances were staged during the closing events of the Years of Culture.

An art exhibition titled "From Beijing to Moscow: Dialogue of Cultures" opened at the State Tretyakov Gallery on Monday. Visitors wandered slowly through the halls to examine 14th- to 19th-century Chinese paintings and calligraphy from the collection of the National Museum of China.

Earlier this year, the National Museum of China launched "Ilya Repin: Encyclopedia of Russian Life," an exhibition that offered Chinese audiences a comprehensive insight into Russian artistic traditions and social history, further enriching cultural dialogue between the two countries.

Zheng Yan, curator of both exhibitions, said the exhibitions aimed to deepen mutual understanding and help people in both nations gain a better understanding of each other's culture.

Exchanges between Chinese and Russian stage artists were equally remarkable.

In April, the Chinese original dance drama "Wing Chun" was staged at Moscow's Bolshoi Theatre. The harmonious blend of Chinese kung fu and dance won prolonged applause from Russian audiences.

Russia's BRICS TV reported that "Wing Chun" touched the in-person audience with its dynamic rhythm and delicate, heartfelt emotional expression. "Through this work, Russian viewers gained a deeper understanding of Wing Chun, a school of traditional Chinese martial arts with unique charm," it said.

Meanwhile, a selection of classic Russian works has been staged in China: Ballets such as "Swan Lake," "Sleeping Beauty," and "The Nutcracker" have brought authentic "Russian-style aesthetics" to Chinese audiences. Meanwhile, stage plays and musicals adapted from classic literary works like "Anna Karenina" and "War and Peace" have offered a fresh and engaging experience.

Wang Ning, president of China's National Center for the Performing Arts, noted that the arrival of numerous high-caliber Russian art troupes for performances in China not only shares the essence of Russian culture with Chinese audiences but also provides Russian artists with opportunities to experience and understand China.

Alexander Ryzhinskii, rector of the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music, said both countries boast a long history and brilliant culture. Artistic exchanges, through sensory pleasures such as visual and auditory experiences, deepen mutual understanding of each other's cultures and foster closer bonds between both peoples.

"Cultural exchanges help bridge the distance between people's hearts, and cultural cooperation serves as the foundation for mutual understanding," said 90-year-old Galina Kulikova, first deputy chairperson of the Russia-China Friendship Association. 
Sociedad Quimica y Minera (NYSE:SQM  Get Free Report) announced its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday. The basic materials company reported $0.62 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.68 by ($0.06), Briefing.com reports. The firm had revenue of $1.17 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.14 billion. Sociedad Quimica y Minera had a net margin of 11.29% and a return on equity of 9.09%. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 8.9% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $0.46 earnings per share.

Sociedad Quimica y Minera Trading Up 0.1%

NYSE:SQM traded up $0.09 on Thursday, reaching $63.19. The stock had a trading volume of 363,842 shares, compared to its average volume of 1,322,651. The firms fifty day moving average is $46.21 and its two-hundred day moving average is $40.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.70, a current ratio of 2.92 and a quick ratio of 1.93. The company has a market cap of $18.05 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.03 and a beta of 1.14. Sociedad Quimica y Minera has a 12-month low of $29.36 and a 12-month high of $64.60.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On Sociedad Quimica y Minera

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in SQM. Fulcrum Asset Management LLP acquired a new stake in shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera during the third quarter worth approximately $43,000. Triumph Capital Management bought a new stake in shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera in the 3rd quarter worth about $49,000. Advisory Services Network LLC bought a new position in shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera during the third quarter worth about $62,000. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. grew its stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera by 26.9% in the third quarter. Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Co. now owns 2,905 shares of the basic materials companys stock worth $125,000 after purchasing an additional 616 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Raymond James Financial Inc. bought a new stake in Sociedad Quimica y Minera in the second quarter valued at about $146,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 12.41% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research analysts have commented on SQM shares. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a hold rating and set a $50.00 price objective (down from $53.00) on shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Rothschild Redb upgraded shares of Sociedad Quimica y Minera to a hold rating in a research note on Friday, October 24th. Itau BBA Securities started coverage on Sociedad Quimica y Minera in a research note on Thursday, September 4th. They set an outperform rating and a $55.00 price objective for the company. Rothschild & Co Redburn began coverage on Sociedad Quimica y Minera in a report on Friday, October 24th. They issued a neutral rating and a $54.00 target price on the stock. Finally, Bank of America increased their price target on Sociedad Quimica y Minera from $36.50 to $43.50 and gave the stock an underperform rating in a report on Tuesday, August 26th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Sociedad Quimica y Minera has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $46.81.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on Sociedad Quimica y Minera

About Sociedad Quimica y Minera

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Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA operates as a mining company worldwide. The company offers specialty plant nutrients, including sodium potassium nitrate, specialty blends, and other specialty fertilizers under Ultrasol, Qrop, Speedfol, Allganic, Ultrasoline, ProP, and Prohydric brands. It also provides iodine and its derivatives for use in medical, agricultural, industrial, and human and animal nutrition products comprising x-ray contrast media, biocides, antiseptics and disinfectants, pharmaceutical intermediates, polarizing films for LCD and LED screens, chemicals, organic compounds, and pigments, as well as added to edible salt to prevent iodine deficiency disorders.

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Tanger (NYSE:SKT  Get Free Report)s stock had its neutral rating restated by stock analysts at Citigroup in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. They currently have a $35.00 target price on the real estate investment trusts stock, down from their previous target price of $38.00. Citigroups price target would suggest a potential upside of 5.36% from the stocks previous close.

Other equities analysts also recently issued reports about the company. Wall Street Zen upgraded Tanger from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, August 9th. Barclays lifted their target price on Tanger from $35.00 to $37.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Tuesday. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b) rating on shares of Tanger in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Evercore ISI lifted their price objective on shares of Tanger from $35.00 to $36.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $36.13.

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Tanger Trading Up 0.8%

Tanger stock opened at $33.22 on Wednesday. Tanger has a 1 year low of $28.69 and a 1 year high of $37.57. The firms 50-day moving average is $33.37 and its 200-day moving average is $32.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.31, a quick ratio of 0.11 and a current ratio of 0.11. The company has a market cap of $3.82 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.75, a PEG ratio of 2.13 and a beta of 1.37.

Tanger (NYSE:SKT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.60 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.58 by $0.02. Tanger had a return on equity of 15.45% and a net margin of 18.22%.The business had revenue of $145.21 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $139.30 million. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $0.54 EPS. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 9.2% on a year-over-year basis. Tanger has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.280-2.320 EPS. On average, equities analysts expect that Tanger will post 2.24 earnings per share for the current year.

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Gallardo Leslie Swanson sold 17,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, September 5th. The shares were sold at an average price of $34.74, for a total transaction of $607,950.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president directly owned 92,665 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,219,182.10. This trade represents a 15.89% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders own 5.70% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Tanger

A number of hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. New York State Common Retirement Fund boosted its stake in Tanger by 20.5% during the 1st quarter. New York State Common Retirement Fund now owns 108,687 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $3,673,000 after purchasing an additional 18,486 shares during the period. Allianz Asset Management GmbH acquired a new position in shares of Tanger during the first quarter worth approximately $2,219,000. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH acquired a new position in shares of Tanger during the first quarter worth approximately $887,000. Legato Capital Management LLC boosted its position in shares of Tanger by 29.3% in the first quarter. Legato Capital Management LLC now owns 65,330 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,208,000 after acquiring an additional 14,786 shares during the period. Finally, Advisors Preferred LLC grew its stake in shares of Tanger by 6.2% in the first quarter. Advisors Preferred LLC now owns 168,755 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $5,741,000 after acquiring an additional 9,822 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.23% of the companys stock.

About Tanger

(Get Free Report)

Tanger Inc (NYSE: SKT) is a leading owner and operator of outlet and open-air retail shopping destinations, with over 43 years of expertise in the retail and outlet shopping industries. Tangers portfolio of 38 outlet centers, one adjacent managed center and one open-air lifestyle center comprises over 15 million square feet well positioned across tourist destinations and vibrant markets in 20 U.S.

Further Reading

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Telecom Italia S.P.A. (OTCMKTS:TIIAY  Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Buy from the six analysts that are covering the stock, Marketbeat reports. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a hold recommendation, one has given a buy recommendation and three have given a strong buy recommendation to the company.

Separately, Oddo Bhf downgraded shares of Telecom Italia to a neutral rating in a report on Friday, August 29th.

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Telecom Italia Stock Performance

About Telecom Italia

Shares of OTCMKTS:TIIAY opened at $5.51 on Wednesday. The company has a 50 day moving average of $5.58 and a 200 day moving average of $4.98. The company has a quick ratio of 0.80, a current ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. Telecom Italia has a 12 month low of $2.27 and a 12 month high of $6.13.

(Get Free Report)

Telecom Italia S.p.A., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the provision of fixed and mobile telecommunications services in Italy and internationally. The company operates through Domestic, Brazil, and Other Operations segments. It offers fixed and mobile voice and Internet, and public telephony services, as well as products managed and developed for individuals and families; and voice, data, and Internet services and products, and information and communications technology solutions for top, public sector and large account customers.

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Empowered Funds LLC increased its position in shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) by 83.6% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 53,065 shares of the insurance providers stock after purchasing an additional 24,155 shares during the period. Empowered Funds LLCs holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $14,197,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. raised its stake in shares of Travelers Companies by 1.4% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 22,047,005 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $5,898,456,000 after buying an additional 313,449 shares in the last quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Travelers Companies by 7.0% in the second quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. now owns 874 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $234,000 after buying an additional 57 shares in the last quarter. Nordwand Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Travelers Companies by 4,493.3% during the second quarter. Nordwand Advisors LLC now owns 6,890 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $1,843,000 after acquiring an additional 6,740 shares during the period. Symphony Financial Ltd. Co. purchased a new position in Travelers Companies in the second quarter worth $23,093,000. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH lifted its holdings in Travelers Companies by 8.3% in the second quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 314,235 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $84,070,000 after acquiring an additional 24,180 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock.

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Travelers Companies Stock Up 0.9%

TRV stock opened at $287.14 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 0.35 and a quick ratio of 0.35. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $275.75 and its 200-day simple moving average is $269.99. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a 12 month low of $230.23 and a 12 month high of $290.61. The firm has a market capitalization of $64.05 billion, a PE ratio of 11.29, a P/E/G ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.55.

Travelers Companies Dividend Announcement

Travelers Companies ( NYSE:TRV Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The insurance provider reported $8.14 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $6.01 by $2.13. The firm had revenue of $12.47 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.15 billion. Travelers Companies had a return on equity of 20.28% and a net margin of 12.14%.Travelers Companiess revenue was up 4.8% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned $5.24 EPS. Equities analysts expect that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be paid a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. This represents a $4.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 1.5%. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.30%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently weighed in on the stock. Citigroup initiated coverage on shares of Travelers Companies in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. They set a neutral rating and a $291.00 price target on the stock. Wells Fargo & Company restated a positive rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $304.00 to $305.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Travelers Companies in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Piper Sandler raised their price objective on Travelers Companies from $320.00 to $322.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have issued a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $291.94.

Read Our Latest Analysis on TRV

Insider Buying and Selling

In related news, EVP Michael Frederick Klein sold 8,572 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, October 28th. The shares were sold at an average price of $270.73, for a total value of $2,320,697.56. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 33,638 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $9,106,815.74. The trade was a 20.31% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Also, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 1,803 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Thursday, November 13th. The stock was sold at an average price of $289.55, for a total transaction of $522,058.65. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 255,086 shares in the company, valued at $73,860,151.30. This represents a 0.70% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 54,195 shares of company stock worth $15,042,229. 1.46% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Travelers Companies Profile

(Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

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Want to see what other hedge funds are holding TRV? Visit HoldingsChannel.com to get the latest 13F filings and insider trades for The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report).

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Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC decreased its position in shares of The Travelers Companies, Inc. (NYSE:TRV  Free Report) by 8.9% during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm owned 3,068 shares of the insurance providers stock after selling 300 shares during the quarter. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLCs holdings in Travelers Companies were worth $821,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors also recently made changes to their positions in TRV. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC grew its stake in shares of Travelers Companies by 71,265.9% in the 2nd quarter. Valeo Financial Advisors LLC now owns 3,616,826 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $967,646,000 after purchasing an additional 3,611,758 shares during the last quarter. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Travelers Companies in the first quarter worth approximately $294,755,000. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. grew its position in Travelers Companies by 41.2% in the first quarter. Bahl & Gaynor Inc. now owns 1,679,275 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $444,101,000 after buying an additional 490,039 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Travelers Companies by 25.3% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 1,934,625 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $511,631,000 after buying an additional 390,104 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. lifted its position in shares of Travelers Companies by 86.5% during the 2nd quarter. Robeco Institutional Asset Management B.V. now owns 738,901 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $197,686,000 after acquiring an additional 342,666 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 82.45% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Travelers Companies

In other Travelers Companies news, EVP Michael Frederick Klein sold 8,572 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, October 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $270.73, for a total value of $2,320,697.56. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 33,638 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,106,815.74. This represents a 20.31% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Vice Chairman William H. Heyman sold 2,000 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 12th. The stock was sold at an average price of $287.50, for a total value of $575,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 255,086 shares in the company, valued at $73,337,225. This represents a 0.78% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last three months, insiders have sold 54,195 shares of company stock worth $15,042,229. 1.46% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

Travelers Companies Trading Up 0.9%

NYSE:TRV opened at $287.14 on Wednesday. The stock has a market cap of $64.05 billion, a PE ratio of 11.29, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 0.55. The Travelers Companies, Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $230.23 and a fifty-two week high of $290.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.29, a current ratio of 0.35 and a quick ratio of 0.35. The stocks 50-day moving average is $275.75 and its two-hundred day moving average is $269.99.

Travelers Companies (NYSE:TRV  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The insurance provider reported $8.14 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $6.01 by $2.13. The business had revenue of $12.47 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $11.15 billion. Travelers Companies had a net margin of 12.14% and a return on equity of 20.28%. The firms quarterly revenue was up 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period last year, the company posted $5.24 earnings per share. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that The Travelers Companies, Inc. will post 17.02 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Travelers Companies Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Investors of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be given a dividend of $1.10 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, December 10th. This represents a $4.40 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.5%. Travelers Companiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 17.30%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

TRV has been the topic of a number of recent analyst reports. Wolfe Research assumed coverage on Travelers Companies in a research report on Monday, September 15th. They set a peer perform rating on the stock. Citigroup began coverage on Travelers Companies in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. They issued a neutral rating and a $291.00 price target on the stock. Barclays set a $313.00 price objective on shares of Travelers Companies in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Zacks Research raised shares of Travelers Companies from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Morgan Stanley boosted their price target on shares of Travelers Companies from $285.00 to $295.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a report on Monday. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, Travelers Companies currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $291.94.

Check Out Our Latest Report on Travelers Companies

About Travelers Companies

(Free Report)

The Travelers Companies, Inc, through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

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Wall Street Zen downgraded shares of Toyota Motor (NYSE:TM  Free Report) from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research report released on Sunday.

A number of other research firms also recently issued reports on TM. Zacks Research downgraded Toyota Motor from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of Toyota Motor in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Sanford C. Bernstein upgraded shares of Toyota Motor from a market perform rating to an outperform rating in a report on Monday, August 18th. Finally, Erste Group Bank raised shares of Toyota Motor from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, two have assigned a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Hold.

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Toyota Motor Trading Down 1.5%

TM opened at $195.93 on Friday. The stock has a market capitalization of $264.00 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.45 and a beta of 0.63. The company has a current ratio of 1.27, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.62. Toyota Motor has a 12 month low of $155.00 and a 12 month high of $211.24. The firms fifty day simple moving average is $199.61 and its 200 day simple moving average is $189.70.

Toyota Motor (NYSE:TM  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported $4.85 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $3.36 by $1.49. The firm had revenue of $80.69 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $79.06 billion. Toyota Motor had a return on equity of 11.63% and a net margin of 8.77%. Toyota Motor has set its FY 2026 guidance at 15.249-15.249 EPS. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Toyota Motor will post 19.76 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Toyota Motor

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. increased its holdings in Toyota Motor by 204.7% during the third quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. now owns 257,269 shares of the companys stock worth $49,162,000 after buying an additional 172,829 shares during the last quarter. Orion Porfolio Solutions LLC grew its position in shares of Toyota Motor by 717.3% in the 2nd quarter. Orion Porfolio Solutions LLC now owns 145,990 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,148,000 after acquiring an additional 128,128 shares during the period. Fisher Asset Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Toyota Motor by 1.7% during the 2nd quarter. Fisher Asset Management LLC now owns 6,827,634 shares of the companys stock worth $1,176,128,000 after purchasing an additional 112,905 shares during the last quarter. Clark Capital Management Group Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Toyota Motor by 46.2% in the 3rd quarter. Clark Capital Management Group Inc. now owns 330,433 shares of the companys stock valued at $63,142,000 after purchasing an additional 104,471 shares during the period. Finally, Franklin Resources Inc. lifted its stake in Toyota Motor by 1,509.1% in the 3rd quarter. Franklin Resources Inc. now owns 100,554 shares of the companys stock valued at $19,215,000 after purchasing an additional 94,305 shares during the last quarter. 1.48% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Toyota Motor Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Toyota Motor Corporation designs, manufactures, assembles, and sells passenger vehicles, minivans and commercial vehicles, and related parts and accessories in Japan, North America, Europe, Asia, Central and South America, Oceania, Africa, and the Middle East. It operates in Automotive, Financial Services, and All Other segments.

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TRUE Private Wealth Advisors raised its position in Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Free Report) by 22.1% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 5,208 shares of the healthcare product makers stock after buying an additional 941 shares during the period. TRUE Private Wealth Advisors holdings in Abbott Laboratories were worth $708,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the business. Brighton Jones LLC raised its stake in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 10.1% in the 4th quarter. Brighton Jones LLC now owns 51,719 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $5,850,000 after purchasing an additional 4,755 shares in the last quarter. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC raised its position in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 252.3% during the 1st quarter. Los Angeles Capital Management LLC now owns 42,933 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $5,695,000 after acquiring an additional 30,748 shares in the last quarter. Ignite Planners LLC increased its stake in Abbott Laboratories by 6.3% during the first quarter. Ignite Planners LLC now owns 4,742 shares of the healthcare product makers stock valued at $621,000 after purchasing an additional 280 shares during the last quarter. Hartford Funds Management Co LLC raised its holdings in shares of Abbott Laboratories by 33.4% during the first quarter. Hartford Funds Management Co LLC now owns 6,521 shares of the healthcare product makers stock worth $865,000 after purchasing an additional 1,634 shares during the period. Finally, Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new position in shares of Abbott Laboratories in the 1st quarter valued at about $245,000. 75.18% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Several research firms have commented on ABT. Barclays upped their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $159.00 to $162.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Sanford C. Bernstein lifted their target price on Abbott Laboratories from $145.00 to $150.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. The Goldman Sachs Group increased their price target on Abbott Laboratories from $153.00 to $157.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 1st. Daiwa Capital Markets raised their target price on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $134.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company raised their price objective on shares of Abbott Laboratories from $142.00 to $146.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have issued a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Abbott Laboratories currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $147.00.

Abbott Laboratories Trading Up 0.4%

NYSE:ABT opened at $130.59 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.30, a current ratio of 1.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.25. The companys 50 day moving average is $130.30 and its 200-day moving average is $131.33. The firm has a market cap of $227.08 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.29, a P/E/G ratio of 2.36 and a beta of 0.68. Abbott Laboratories has a 12 month low of $110.86 and a 12 month high of $141.23.

Abbott Laboratories (NYSE:ABT  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The healthcare product maker reported $1.30 earnings per share for the quarter, hitting analysts consensus estimates of $1.30. Abbott Laboratories had a net margin of 31.88% and a return on equity of 17.78%. The firm had revenue of $11.37 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.40 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business earned $1.21 EPS. The businesss revenue was up 6.9% on a year-over-year basis. Abbott Laboratories has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.120-5.180 EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Abbott Laboratories will post 5.14 EPS for the current year.

Abbott Laboratories Announces Dividend

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 17th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, October 15th were issued a dividend of $0.59 per share. This represents a $2.36 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Wednesday, October 15th. Abbott Laboratoriess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 29.57%.

About Abbott Laboratories

(Free Report)

Abbott Laboratories, together with its subsidiaries, discovers, develops, manufactures, and sells health care products worldwide. It operates in four segments: Established Pharmaceutical Products, Diagnostic Products, Nutritional Products, and Medical Devices. The company provides generic pharmaceuticals for the treatment of pancreatic exocrine insufficiency, irritable bowel syndrome or biliary spasm, intrahepatic cholestasis or depressive symptoms, gynecological disorder, hormone replacement therapy, dyslipidemia, hypertension, hypothyroidism, Menieres disease and vestibular vertigo, pain, fever, inflammation, and migraine, as well as provides anti-infective clarithromycin, influenza vaccine, and products to regulate physiological rhythm of the colon.

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United Advisor Group LLC grew its holdings in The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation (NYSE:BK  Free Report) by 11.1% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 5,559 shares of the banks stock after purchasing an additional 556 shares during the quarter. United Advisor Group LLCs holdings in Bank of New York Mellon were worth $506,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other large investors have also made changes to their positions in the business. Westside Investment Management Inc. grew its holdings in Bank of New York Mellon by 78.9% in the 2nd quarter. Westside Investment Management Inc. now owns 288 shares of the banks stock valued at $26,000 after buying an additional 127 shares during the last quarter. Orion Capital Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Bank of New York Mellon during the first quarter worth approximately $32,000. Hoey Investments Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter valued at approximately $32,000. McClarren Financial Advisors Inc. bought a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the first quarter valued at approximately $34,000. Finally, GFG Capital LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Bank of New York Mellon in the second quarter worth $36,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 85.31% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several research firms recently commented on BK. Barclays upped their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $104.00 to $120.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Evercore ISI upped their price objective on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $91.00 to $110.00 and gave the company an in-line rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. Wells Fargo & Company increased their target price on shares of Bank of New York Mellon from $100.00 to $109.00 and gave the company an equal weight rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Bank of New York Mellon in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, Truist Financial upped their price target on Bank of New York Mellon from $118.00 to $119.00 and gave the company a hold rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $111.29.

Bank of New York Mellon Stock Performance

NYSE BK opened at $107.51 on Wednesday. The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation has a twelve month low of $70.46 and a twelve month high of $113.74. The company has a quick ratio of 0.72, a current ratio of 0.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.83. The stock has a market cap of $74.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.51, a PEG ratio of 0.98 and a beta of 1.13. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $107.81 and its 200 day simple moving average is $99.62.

Bank of New York Mellon (NYSE:BK  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, March 26th. The bank reported $1.30 EPS for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $4.38 billion during the quarter. Bank of New York Mellon had a net margin of 12.86% and a return on equity of 14.03%. As a group, research analysts forecast that The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation will post 6.96 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bank of New York Mellon Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 7th. Investors of record on Monday, October 27th were paid a $0.53 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Monday, October 27th. This represents a $2.12 annualized dividend and a yield of 2.0%. Bank of New York Mellons payout ratio is currently 30.59%.

Bank of New York Mellon Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Bank of New York Mellon Corporation provides a range of financial products and services in the United States and internationally. The company operates through Securities Services, Market and Wealth Services, Investment and Wealth Management, and other segments. The Securities Services segment offers custody, trust and depositary, accounting, exchange-traded funds, middle-office solutions, transfer agency, services for private equity and real estate funds, foreign exchange, securities lending, liquidity/lending services, and data analytics.

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Intrust Bank NA cut its position in shares of United Parcel Service, Inc. (NYSE:UPS  Free Report) by 38.4% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 4,045 shares of the transportation companys stock after selling 2,522 shares during the period. Intrust Bank NAs holdings in United Parcel Service were worth $408,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Cornerstone Wealth Group LLC grew its position in shares of United Parcel Service by 3.9% during the 2nd quarter. Cornerstone Wealth Group LLC now owns 2,557 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $258,000 after acquiring an additional 97 shares during the period. Bangor Savings Bank boosted its position in United Parcel Service by 1.9% during the second quarter. Bangor Savings Bank now owns 5,413 shares of the transportation companys stock worth $546,000 after purchasing an additional 101 shares in the last quarter. First Dallas Securities Inc. grew its holdings in United Parcel Service by 0.9% in the first quarter. First Dallas Securities Inc. now owns 11,421 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $1,256,000 after purchasing an additional 102 shares during the period. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC increased its position in shares of United Parcel Service by 3.4% in the first quarter. Fortis Capital Advisors LLC now owns 3,185 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $350,000 after buying an additional 104 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Wright Investors Service Inc. increased its position in shares of United Parcel Service by 1.3% in the second quarter. Wright Investors Service Inc. now owns 7,861 shares of the transportation companys stock valued at $793,000 after buying an additional 104 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 60.26% of the companys stock.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, Director Christiana Smith Shi bought 500 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were acquired at an average cost of $88.17 per share, for a total transaction of $44,085.00. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 500 shares in the company, valued at approximately $44,085. This trade represents a  increase in their position. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through this hyperlink. 0.13% of the stock is owned by company insiders.

United Parcel Service Trading Down 1.3%

Shares of UPS opened at $92.95 on Wednesday. United Parcel Service, Inc. has a 52-week low of $82.00 and a 52-week high of $138.67. The stock has a market cap of $78.78 billion, a PE ratio of 14.37, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.29 and a beta of 1.11. The firms fifty day moving average is $88.28 and its two-hundred day moving average is $92.84. The company has a quick ratio of 1.32, a current ratio of 1.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.50.

United Parcel Service (NYSE:UPS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The transportation company reported $1.74 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.31 by $0.43. The business had revenue of $21.42 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $20.94 billion. United Parcel Service had a net margin of 6.15% and a return on equity of 40.07%. The companys quarterly revenue was down 3.7% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.76 earnings per share. United Parcel Service has set its Q4 2025 guidance at EPS. Research analysts forecast that United Parcel Service, Inc. will post 7.95 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

United Parcel Service Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, December 4th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be paid a $1.64 dividend. This represents a $6.56 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 7.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. United Parcel Services dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 101.39%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research analysts have recently issued reports on UPS shares. Wall Street Zen upgraded United Parcel Service from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 1st. Susquehanna upped their price objective on shares of United Parcel Service from $100.00 to $105.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Citigroup increased their price objective on shares of United Parcel Service from $112.00 to $120.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. UBS Group boosted their target price on shares of United Parcel Service from $110.00 to $113.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Wells Fargo & Company upped their price target on shares of United Parcel Service from $91.00 to $96.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, nine have given a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and four have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat, United Parcel Service currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $110.00.

View Our Latest Report on United Parcel Service

United Parcel Service Profile

(Free Report)

United Parcel Service, Inc, a package delivery company, provides transportation and delivery, distribution, contract logistics, ocean freight, airfreight, customs brokerage, and insurance services. It operates through two segments, U.S. Domestic Package and International Package. The U.S. Domestic Package segment offers time-definite delivery of express letters, documents, small packages, and palletized freight through air and ground services in the United States.

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HHM Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its position in Unum Group (NYSE:UNM  Free Report) by 623.7% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 31,185 shares of the financial services providers stock after purchasing an additional 26,876 shares during the quarter. Unum Group makes up 0.3% of HHM Wealth Advisors LLCs investment portfolio, making the stock its 28th biggest holding. HHM Wealth Advisors LLCs holdings in Unum Group were worth $2,519,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other institutional investors also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Invesco Ltd. boosted its holdings in shares of Unum Group by 155.6% in the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,278,473 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $185,604,000 after acquiring an additional 1,387,139 shares during the period. Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Unum Group in the 1st quarter valued at $93,287,000. Teewinot Capital Advisers L.L.C. purchased a new stake in Unum Group in the 1st quarter valued at $58,881,000. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. boosted its stake in Unum Group by 65.2% during the 1st quarter. Adage Capital Partners GP L.L.C. now owns 950,000 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $77,387,000 after purchasing an additional 375,000 shares during the period. Finally, VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new position in Unum Group during the 2nd quarter worth $27,601,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 86.57% of the companys stock.

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Unum Group Stock Up 1.0%

Shares of NYSE UNM opened at $76.72 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.30, a current ratio of 0.30 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.31. The firm has a 50-day moving average price of $76.29 and a 200 day moving average price of $76.81. Unum Group has a 52 week low of $66.81 and a 52 week high of $84.48. The stock has a market capitalization of $12.84 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.18, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.23 and a beta of 0.37.

Unum Group Dividend Announcement

Unum Group ( NYSE:UNM Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The financial services provider reported $2.09 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.15 by ($0.06). The business had revenue of $3.25 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.31 billion. Unum Group had a net margin of 11.77% and a return on equity of 13.44%. The businesss revenue was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter last year, the business posted $2.13 earnings per share. Unum Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities research analysts anticipate that Unum Group will post 9.14 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, November 14th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 24th were issued a dividend of $0.46 per share. This represents a $1.84 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.4%. The ex-dividend date was Friday, October 24th. Unum Groups dividend payout ratio is 35.87%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several equities analysts recently issued reports on UNM shares. Wells Fargo & Company dropped their price target on Unum Group from $100.00 to $98.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Barclays increased their price target on Unum Group from $92.00 to $95.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group set a $87.00 price objective on shares of Unum Group and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, July 30th. Wolfe Research upgraded shares of Unum Group to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of Unum Group from $94.00 to $92.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 4th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have issued a Buy rating and three have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Unum Group has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $94.67.

Read Our Latest Research Report on UNM

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Unum Group news, EVP Christopher W. Pyne sold 4,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, November 7th. The stock was sold at an average price of $78.04, for a total transaction of $312,160.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the executive vice president owned 51,372 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $4,009,070.88. This trade represents a 7.22% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Insiders own 0.92% of the companys stock.

Unum Group Profile

(Free Report)

Unum Group, together with its subsidiaries, provides financial protection benefit solutions primarily in the United States, the United Kingdom, Poland, and internationally. It operates through Unum US, Unum International, Colonial Life, and Closed Block segment. The company offers group long-term and short-term disability, group life, and accidental death and dismemberment products; supplemental and voluntary products, such as individual disability, voluntary benefits, and dental and vision products; and accident, sickness, disability, life, and cancer and critical illness products.

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SARAJEVO, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) has reaffirmed its commitment to the one-China principle and the stance of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 in a diplomatic note recently sent to the Chinese Embassy in BiH, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said.

According to the note, BiH has consistently upheld the position that the People's Republic of China is the sole legitimate government representing the whole of China.

As the legal successor of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, BiH recalled that Yugoslavia supported Resolution 2758, adopted in 1971, which recognizes the People's Republic of China as the only legitimate representative of China in the United Nations. BiH fully understands the significance of the resolution and supports its full implementation.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between China and BiH. The note said bilateral relations have continued to grow on the basis of mutual respect, mutual trust and non-interference in internal affairs, with cooperation steadily expanding in the political, economic and cultural fields.

BiH expressed appreciation for the positive momentum in bilateral relations, including China's increasing investment in the country, the mutual visa-free policy, and closer cultural and tourism exchanges.

BiH will continue working to further advance its relations with China, deepen cooperation in the economy and investment, and enhance cultural and people-to-people ties, the note said. 
Vanguard Group Inc. trimmed its holdings in EOG Resources, Inc. (NYSE:EOG  Free Report) by 1.3% during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 53,275,012 shares of the energy exploration companys stock after selling 706,842 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned about 9.76% of EOG Resources worth $6,372,224,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in EOG. Empowered Funds LLC increased its holdings in EOG Resources by 49.8% in the second quarter. Empowered Funds LLC now owns 331,239 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $39,619,000 after purchasing an additional 110,082 shares in the last quarter. LSV Asset Management boosted its holdings in shares of EOG Resources by 4.1% during the 2nd quarter. LSV Asset Management now owns 715,790 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $85,616,000 after buying an additional 28,344 shares in the last quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC grew its position in shares of EOG Resources by 3.7% during the 2nd quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC now owns 4,060 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $486,000 after buying an additional 145 shares during the period. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. grew its position in shares of EOG Resources by 27.8% during the 2nd quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 344,999 shares of the energy exploration companys stock worth $41,265,000 after buying an additional 75,040 shares during the period. Finally, Slagle Financial LLC increased its stake in shares of EOG Resources by 107.1% in the 2nd quarter. Slagle Financial LLC now owns 26,740 shares of the energy exploration companys stock valued at $3,198,000 after acquiring an additional 13,830 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors own 89.91% of the companys stock.

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EOG Resources Stock Up 0.1%

EOG Resources stock opened at $109.63 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $59.49 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.65, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 8.20 and a beta of 0.72. The firms fifty day moving average price is $110.70 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $115.46. EOG Resources, Inc. has a 1-year low of $102.52 and a 1-year high of $138.18. The company has a current ratio of 1.79, a quick ratio of 1.61 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.12.

EOG Resources Announces Dividend

EOG Resources ( NYSE:EOG Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The energy exploration company reported $2.71 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $2.42 by $0.29. The firm had revenue of $5.85 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.48 billion. EOG Resources had a return on equity of 20.51% and a net margin of 25.25%.The companys revenue for the quarter was down 2.0% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $2.89 EPS. On average, equities research analysts predict that EOG Resources, Inc. will post 11.47 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 30th. Investors of record on Friday, January 16th will be given a $1.02 dividend. This represents a $4.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.7%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 16th. EOG Resourcess dividend payout ratio is presently 40.64%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages recently issued reports on EOG. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their target price on shares of EOG Resources from $132.00 to $131.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Wednesday, October 1st. Melius Research started coverage on shares of EOG Resources in a research note on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $173.00 price target for the company. Susquehanna increased their price objective on shares of EOG Resources from $156.00 to $170.00 and gave the stock a positive rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Melius assumed coverage on EOG Resources in a research note on Wednesday, August 20th. They issued a buy rating and a $173.00 target price for the company. Finally, Morgan Stanley dropped their price target on EOG Resources from $141.00 to $136.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, October 14th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eleven have issued a Buy rating and fifteen have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $140.12.

Get Our Latest Analysis on EOG

EOG Resources Company Profile

(Free Report)

EOG Resources, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, explores for, develops, produces, and markets crude oil, natural gas liquids, and natural gas primarily in producing basins in the United States, the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago and internationally. The company was formerly known as Enron Oil & Gas Company.

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Vise Technologies Inc. acquired a new stake in Wipro Limited (NYSE:WIT  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund acquired 27,547 shares of the information technology services providers stock, valued at approximately $83,000.

A number of other hedge funds have also modified their holdings of WIT. Vest Financial LLC acquired a new position in shares of Wipro in the 2nd quarter valued at $31,000. Hamilton Capital LLC purchased a new position in Wipro during the 1st quarter worth $32,000. Haven Private LLC acquired a new position in Wipro in the second quarter valued at $39,000. Rehmann Capital Advisory Group purchased a new stake in shares of Wipro in the second quarter valued at about $40,000. Finally, Hoxton Planning & Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Wipro during the first quarter worth about $48,000. 2.36% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Wipro Stock Down 0.2%

Shares of NYSE:WIT opened at $2.63 on Wednesday. Wipro Limited has a 52 week low of $2.55 and a 52 week high of $3.79. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $2.69 and a 200 day moving average price of $2.81. The company has a market cap of $27.49 billion, a P/E ratio of 17.50, a PEG ratio of 16.16 and a beta of 1.02.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Wipro ( NYSE:WIT Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The information technology services provider reported $0.03 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.04 by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $2.56 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $224.40 billion. Wipro had a return on equity of 15.80% and a net margin of 15.06%. Analysts expect that Wipro Limited will post 0.14 EPS for the current year.

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Wipro in a report on Thursday, October 30th. CLSA downgraded Wipro from an outperform rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock has an average rating of Reduce.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on Wipro

Wipro Company Profile

(Free Report)

Wipro Limited operates as an information technology (IT), consulting, and business process services company worldwide. It operates through IT Services and IT Products segments. The IT Services segment offers IT and IT-enabled services, including digital strategy advisory, customer-centric design, technology and IT consulting, custom application design, development, re-engineering and maintenance, systems integration, package implementation, cloud and infrastructure, business process, cloud, mobility and analytics, research and development, and hardware and software design services to enterprises.

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VSM Wealth Advisory LLC increased its position in The Charles Schwab Corporation (NYSE:SCHW  Free Report) by 80.5% during the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 1,769 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 789 shares during the quarter. VSM Wealth Advisory LLCs holdings in Charles Schwab were worth $161,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently made changes to their positions in the business. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC grew its position in Charles Schwab by 26.8% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 190,538 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $17,387,000 after purchasing an additional 40,275 shares during the last quarter. Bain Capital Public Equity Management II LLC bought a new stake in shares of Charles Schwab in the first quarter valued at about $79,605,000. Independent Advisor Alliance grew its position in Charles Schwab by 13.8% during the first quarter. Independent Advisor Alliance now owns 39,103 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $3,061,000 after buying an additional 4,754 shares in the last quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH increased its stake in Charles Schwab by 6.2% during the first quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 1,181,563 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $92,493,000 after acquiring an additional 68,858 shares during the period. Finally, PFG Investments LLC raised its holdings in Charles Schwab by 10.2% in the 2nd quarter. PFG Investments LLC now owns 5,951 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $543,000 after acquiring an additional 550 shares in the last quarter. 84.38% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have weighed in on SCHW. Zacks Research downgraded shares of Charles Schwab from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, September 17th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of Charles Schwab from $119.00 to $121.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Monday, October 20th. Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lifted their target price on shares of Charles Schwab from $109.00 to $111.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Cowen reissued a buy rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a research report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Piper Sandler reaffirmed a neutral rating on shares of Charles Schwab in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, sixteen have assigned a Buy rating, five have issued a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Charles Schwab currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $106.45.

Insider Transactions at Charles Schwab

In other news, General Counsel Peter J. Morgan III sold 50,016 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 27th. The stock was sold at an average price of $97.00, for a total value of $4,851,552.00. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Also, insider Paul V. Woolway sold 3,205 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of $93.33, for a total transaction of $299,122.65. Following the transaction, the insider owned 34,778 shares in the company, valued at approximately $3,245,830.74. This trade represents a 8.44% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Over the last quarter, insiders have sold 68,938 shares of company stock worth $6,671,953. Insiders own 6.30% of the companys stock.

Charles Schwab Price Performance

NYSE:SCHW opened at $92.32 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $164.05 billion, a PE ratio of 21.62, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.85 and a beta of 1.02. The companys 50-day moving average price is $94.00 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $92.64. The company has a quick ratio of 0.55, a current ratio of 0.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.47. The Charles Schwab Corporation has a 12 month low of $65.88 and a 12 month high of $99.59.

Charles Schwab (NYSE:SCHW  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 16th. The financial services provider reported $1.31 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.25 by $0.06. The company had revenue of $6.38 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.93 billion. Charles Schwab had a net margin of 35.93% and a return on equity of 21.26%. Charles Schwabs quarterly revenue was up 26.6% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the previous year, the company posted $0.71 earnings per share. On average, equities analysts anticipate that The Charles Schwab Corporation will post 4.22 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Charles Schwab Announces Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $0.27 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $1.08 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.2%. Charles Schwabs payout ratio is currently 25.29%.

Charles Schwab announced that its board has authorized a share repurchase program on Thursday, July 24th that permits the company to buyback $20.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization permits the financial services provider to reacquire up to 11.6% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are typically an indication that the companys leadership believes its stock is undervalued.

Charles Schwab Company Profile

(Free Report)

The Charles Schwab Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as a savings and loan holding company that provides wealth management, securities brokerage, banking, asset management, custody, and financial advisory services in the United States and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Investor Services and Advisor Services.

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC trimmed its position in shares of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF (NYSEARCA:VOT  Free Report) by 11.5% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The fund owned 102,622 shares of the companys stock after selling 13,326 shares during the quarter. Wealthspire Advisors LLC owned about 0.17% of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF worth $29,185,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of VOT. Cornerstone Advisory LLC lifted its position in Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 0.8% during the second quarter. Cornerstone Advisory LLC now owns 4,918 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,399,000 after acquiring an additional 38 shares during the last quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC grew its holdings in Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 2.0% in the first quarter. NorthRock Partners LLC now owns 2,007 shares of the companys stock worth $491,000 after purchasing an additional 40 shares during the last quarter. Silver Coast Investments LLC increased its position in shares of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 3.6% during the first quarter. Silver Coast Investments LLC now owns 1,299 shares of the companys stock worth $318,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares in the last quarter. Uptick Partners LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 0.6% during the 2nd quarter. Uptick Partners LLC now owns 7,374 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,097,000 after purchasing an additional 45 shares during the last quarter. Finally, First Manhattan CO. LLC. boosted its position in shares of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF by 1.7% in the 1st quarter. First Manhattan CO. LLC. now owns 3,061 shares of the companys stock worth $749,000 after purchasing an additional 50 shares in the last quarter.

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Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF Price Performance

Shares of VOT stock opened at $274.56 on Wednesday. The stocks fifty day moving average price is $290.54 and its 200 day moving average price is $283.39. Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF has a 1-year low of $209.64 and a 1-year high of $298.66. The company has a market cap of $17.10 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 31.98 and a beta of 1.16.

Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF Company Profile

Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth ETF (the Fund) is an exchange-traded share class of Vanguard Mid-Cap Growth Index Fund, which employs a passive management or indexing investment approach designed to track the performance of the MSCI US Mid Cap Growth Index (the Index). The Index is a diversified index of growth stocks of medium-size United States companies.

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TransAlta Co. (TSE:TA  Free Report) (NYSE:TAC)  Stock analysts at Atb Cap Markets reduced their Q1 2026 earnings per share estimates for TransAlta in a report issued on Monday, November 17th. Atb Cap Markets analyst N. Heywood now expects that the company will earn $0.12 per share for the quarter, down from their previous estimate of $0.13. Atb Cap Markets also issued estimates for TransAltas Q3 2026 earnings at $0.23 EPS, FY2026 earnings at $0.60 EPS and FY2027 earnings at $0.45 EPS.

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TransAlta (TSE:TA  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TAC) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported C($0.20) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of C$615.00 million during the quarter. TransAlta had a net margin of 7.49% and a return on equity of 12.03%.

Other analysts have also recently issued reports about the stock. TD Securities dropped their price target on shares of TransAlta from C$27.00 to C$26.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, November 7th. ATB Capital boosted their target price on shares of TransAlta from C$18.00 to C$20.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Desjardins increased their target price on TransAlta from C$16.50 to C$21.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Scotiabank lifted their price target on TransAlta from C$23.00 to C$27.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Monday, October 20th. Finally, CIBC boosted their price objective on TransAlta from C$20.00 to C$26.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Monday, October 20th. One analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have given a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of C$23.33.

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TransAlta Trading Up 0.9%

Shares of TransAlta stock opened at C$20.18 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of C$5.99 billion, a P/E ratio of -31.53, a P/E/G ratio of -0.07 and a beta of 0.74. TransAlta has a 52-week low of C$11.16 and a 52-week high of C$25.03. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 229.66, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a current ratio of 0.74. The stocks 50-day simple moving average is C$21.20 and its 200 day simple moving average is C$17.33.

About TransAlta

(Get Free Report)

TransAlta is an independent power producer based in Alberta, Canada. The company operates a diverse and growing fleet of electrical power generation assets in Canada, the United States, and Australia consisting of hydro, wind, solar, battery storage, gas and energy transition facilities. The majority of the companys revenues are derived from the sale of generation capacity, electricity, thermal energy, environmental attributes, and byproducts of power generation.

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Workspace Group (LON:WKP  Get Free Report) released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday. The company reported GBX (37) EPS for the quarter, Digital Look Earnings reports. Workspace Group had a negative net margin of 104.45% and a negative return on equity of 12.20%.

Workspace Group Trading Down 5.1%

LON:WKP opened at GBX 382 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day moving average price of GBX 401.02 and a 200-day moving average price of GBX 408.22. Workspace Group has a 12 month low of GBX 368 and a 12 month high of GBX 569. The company has a current ratio of 1.23, a quick ratio of 0.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 57.43. The stock has a market cap of 734.41 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 136.43, a P/E/G ratio of 1.54 and a beta of 1.04.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research analysts recently weighed in on WKP shares. Peel Hunt restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 500 price objective on shares of Workspace Group in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price target on shares of Workspace Group from GBX 500 to GBX 516 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 28th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, Based on data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 508.

About Workspace Group

(Get Free Report)

Workspace is London's leading owner and operator of flexible workspace, currently managing 4.7 million sq. ft. of sustainable space at 79 locations in London and the South East. We are home to some 4,000 of London's fastest growing and established brands from a diverse range of sectors. Our purpose, to give businesses the freedom to grow, is based on the belief that in the right space, teams can achieve more.

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Canadian National Railway (TSE:CNR  Free Report) (NYSE:CNI)  Equities research analysts at Zacks Research reduced their FY2025 earnings per share estimates for shares of Canadian National Railway in a report issued on Friday, November 14th. Zacks Research analyst Team now expects that the company will post earnings of $7.49 per share for the year, down from their prior estimate of $7.62. The consensus estimate for Canadian National Railways current full-year earnings is $8.26 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Canadian National Railways Q4 2025 earnings at $1.94 EPS, Q1 2026 earnings at $1.87 EPS, Q2 2026 earnings at $1.98 EPS, Q4 2026 earnings at $2.07 EPS, FY2026 earnings at $7.88 EPS, Q1 2027 earnings at $2.19 EPS, Q2 2027 earnings at $2.23 EPS, Q3 2027 earnings at $2.11 EPS and FY2027 earnings at $8.77 EPS.

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Several other brokerages have also issued reports on CNR. Berenberg Bank boosted their target price on Canadian National Railway from C$148.00 to C$152.00 in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. JPMorgan Chase & Co. cut their price objective on Canadian National Railway from C$154.00 to C$153.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Barclays decreased their target price on Canadian National Railway from C$145.00 to C$135.00 in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Sanford C. Bernstein cut their price target on shares of Canadian National Railway from C$149.00 to C$148.00 in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Finally, Desjardins reduced their price target on shares of Canadian National Railway from C$155.00 to C$151.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, October 6th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have given a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of C$152.53.

Canadian National Railway Trading Down 2.0%

CNR stock opened at C$131.35 on Monday. Canadian National Railway has a twelve month low of C$126.11 and a twelve month high of C$157.95. The stock has a market capitalization of C$80.85 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 17.85, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.38 and a beta of 0.86. The company has a quick ratio of 0.58, a current ratio of 0.64 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 107.59. The firms fifty day simple moving average is C$132.41 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is C$136.21.

Canadian National Railway (TSE:CNR  Get Free Report) (NYSE:CNI) last released its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The company reported C$1.83 earnings per share for the quarter. The company had revenue of C$4.17 billion for the quarter. Canadian National Railway had a return on equity of 27.10% and a net margin of 31.20%.

Canadian National Railway Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, September 29th. Investors of record on Monday, September 29th were paid a $0.8875 dividend. This represents a $3.55 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. The ex-dividend date was Monday, September 8th. Canadian National Railways payout ratio is currently 47.66%.

About Canadian National Railway

(Get Free Report)

Canadian Nationals railway spans Canada from coast to coast and extends through Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico. In 2019, CN delivered almost 6 million carloads over its 19,600 miles of track. CN generated roughly CAD 14 billion in total revenue by hauling intermodal containers (25% of consolidated revenue), petroleum and chemicals (21%), grain and fertilizers (16%), forest products (12%), metals and mining (11%), automotive shipments (6%), and coal (4%).

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Shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. (NYSE:ZIM  Get Free Report) rose 7.3% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as high as $17.50 and last traded at $17.1850. Approximately 6,615,164 shares traded hands during trading, an increase of 15% from the average daily volume of 5,755,204 shares. The stock had previously closed at $16.02.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities research analysts have recently weighed in on ZIM shares. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report on Friday, August 22nd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Citigroup reiterated a sell rating on shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services in a report on Monday, August 11th. Jefferies Financial Group reissued a hold rating and issued a $17.00 target price on shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services in a research note on Wednesday, August 20th. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on ZIM Integrated Shipping Services from $9.80 to $10.00 and gave the company an underweight rating in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Hold rating and five have given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, ZIM Integrated Shipping Services has an average rating of Strong Sell and a consensus price target of $14.62.

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Read Our Latest Analysis on ZIM

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Stock Down 0.8%

The company has a market capitalization of $2.03 billion, a P/E ratio of 1.01 and a beta of 1.73. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.20, a current ratio of 1.20 and a quick ratio of 1.11. The company has a 50 day moving average of $14.32 and a 200-day moving average of $15.47.

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services (NYSE:ZIM  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, August 20th. The company reported $0.19 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $1.50 by ($1.31). ZIM Integrated Shipping Services had a return on equity of 50.61% and a net margin of 23.37%.The business had revenue of $1.64 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.84 billion. As a group, equities analysts anticipate that ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd. will post 16.75 EPS for the current year.

Institutional Trading of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership grew its stake in ZIM Integrated Shipping Services by 134.9% in the second quarter. Arrowstreet Capital Limited Partnership now owns 4,368,287 shares of the companys stock worth $70,286,000 after purchasing an additional 2,508,432 shares during the period. BNP Paribas Financial Markets increased its stake in ZIM Integrated Shipping Services by 29,305.7% during the 2nd quarter. BNP Paribas Financial Markets now owns 1,310,614 shares of the companys stock valued at $21,088,000 after purchasing an additional 1,306,157 shares in the last quarter. Yelin Lapidot Holdings Management Ltd. increased its position in shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services by 96.7% during the third quarter. Yelin Lapidot Holdings Management Ltd. now owns 2,422,986 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,831,000 after acquiring an additional 1,191,480 shares in the last quarter. Jump Financial LLC raised its stake in shares of ZIM Integrated Shipping Services by 204.0% in the second quarter. Jump Financial LLC now owns 1,536,092 shares of the companys stock worth $24,716,000 after purchasing an additional 1,030,817 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC purchased a new position in ZIM Integrated Shipping Services in the 2nd quarter worth about $15,850,000. Institutional investors own 21.42% of the companys stock.

About ZIM Integrated Shipping Services

(Get Free Report)

ZIM Integrated Shipping Services Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, provides container shipping and related services in Israel and internationally. It provides door-to-door and port-to-port transportation services for various types of customers, including end-users, consolidators, and freight forwarders.

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BERLIN, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- China reclaimed its position as Germany's largest trading partner in the first nine months of 2025, according to data from the Federal Statistical Office (Destatis) released Wednesday.

Germany's total trade with China reached 185.9 billion euros (215.13 billion U.S. dollars) from January to September, up 0.6 percent from the same period last year, Destatis said.

It noted that Germany imported 124.5 billion euros (144.08 billion dollars) worth of goods from China during the period, up 8.5 percent from a year earlier, driven mainly by electrical equipment, clothing and machinery.

Meanwhile, German exports to China fell 12.3 percent to 61.4 billion euros (71.06 billion dollars) over the same period, it said.

It added that German trade with the United States declined 3.9 percent to 184.7 billion euros (213.74 billion dollars) in the first three quarters of the year. While exports to the United States fell 7.8 percent to 112.7 billion euros (130.42 billion dollars), imports rose 2.8 percent to 71.9 billion euros (83.21 billion dollars).

Destatis attributed the changes to weak global demand, a complex trade environment and adjustments in traditional German industries, such as automobiles.

According to the organization, China had been Germany's largest trading partner from 2016 to 2023 before being briefly overtaken by the United States in 2024. 
NEW YORK, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The U.S. federal court on Tuesday blocked Republicans' efforts to use a newly redrawn congressional map in Texas to grab five seats from the Democrats in the House of Representatives in next year's midterm elections.

The court ruled that it is likely an unconstitutional racial gerrymander, ordering Texas to use its previous map drawn in 2021.

"Substantial evidence shows that Texas racially gerrymandered the 2025 Map," the ruling read.

Texas Republican Governor Greg Abbott, who signed the map into law after the Republican-dominated state Senate approved a redistricting bill in August, said in a statement that Texas would appeal to the Supreme Court.

U.S. states usually redraw congressional maps every 10 years after the nationwide census. But U.S. President Donald Trump had urged Republicans to redraw state congressional maps to help protect the party's narrow majority in the House ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.

Democrats have responded with their own redistricting efforts, triggering a series of fights across the country, including in the courts. 
LOS ANGELES, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- At the University of California San Diego (UCSD), hundreds of first-year students are beginning their studies with fractions and basic equations normally taught before high school, rather than spending their first quarter on calculus.

A report released on Nov. 6 by UCSD's Senate-Administration Working Group (SAWG) on Admissions found significant decreases in the writing and math preparation of admitted students over the last five years.

According to the report, between 2020 and 2025, the number of students whose math skills fall below middle-school level increased nearly thirtyfold, reaching roughly one in eight members of the entering cohort.

The number of freshmen enrolled in remedial math rose from 32 in fall 2020 to 390 in fall 2022, then to 921 in fall 2025, accounting for 11.8 percent of the incoming class.

Instructors originally designed the remedial course in 2016 to address gaps in high school math. By 2023, however, they found "many severe gaps going back to mathematics taught in middle and elementary school," said the report.

UCSD is highly ranked in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) fields, earning No. 4 among U.S. public universities in the 2025 Academic Ranking of World Universities, 15th among all U.S. universities and 20th globally.

The situation at UCSD, widely reported over the weekend by U.S. media, reflects a broader national challenge.

Across the United States, national test data and college entrance exams have shown that students entering university after the pandemic are, on average, less prepared in math and reading than earlier cohorts.

According to the latest results from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP), only about 33 percent of U.S. high school seniors are considered ready for college-level math, down from 37 percent in 2019. Meanwhile, 45 percent scored below basic in math and 32 percent fell below basic in reading.

Among younger students, the NAEP long-term trend assessment found that the average math scores for 13-year-olds in 2023 were nine points lower than in 2020, while reading scores were four points lower -- declines that wiped out many gains made since the 1990s. The steepest drops occurred among low-income students and some minority groups.

The consequences of beginning college far behind in math are significant. SAWG cited earlier internal data showing that students starting in Math 2, the university's middle school-level remedial course, have far higher rates of receiving D or F grades or withdrawing from subsequent calculus courses.

Faculty members fear the same pattern could emerge in other science and technology fields that rely heavily on mathematics. The Hill reported that "across the country this fall, millions of college students are walking into math classrooms worried about their future -- perhaps with good reason." 
WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (Xinhua) -- The Trump administration has drafted a new 28-point plan and held quiet and deep consultations with Russia in a renewed push to restart peace talks aimed at ending the Ukraine crisis, according to U.S. online media outlet Axios on Wednesday.

The plan is inspired by U.S. President Donald Trump's push for the deal in Gaza, Axios said.

According to the report, U.S. Special Envoy to the Middle East Steve Witkoff is leading the effort to craft the plan, which is organized into four broad sections: peace in Ukraine, security guarantees, security in Europe, and future U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine.

"The president has been clear that it is time to stop the killing and make a deal to end the war. President Trump believes that there is a chance to end this senseless war if flexibility is shown," a White House official told Axios.

How the plan addresses some of the most contentious issues, particularly territorial control in eastern Ukraine, remains unclear, as does the reaction from Kiev and its European allies, said the report.

In late October, Witkoff and other members of Trump's team discussed the plan extensively with Russian President Vladimir Putin's special envoy Kirill Dmitriev in Miami, Florida, said the report.

In an interview with Axios on Monday, Dmitriev expressed optimism about the deal's chances of success, saying that unlike past efforts, "we feel the Russian position is really being heard."

Witkoff discussed the plan with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's national security adviser Rustem Umerov in a meeting earlier this week in Miami, a Ukrainian official confirmed to Axios.

Peace talks on Ukraine have stalled since Trump and Putin met in August in Alaska. Moscow rejected Trump's proposal for an immediate freeze in fighting last month, prompting Trump to cancel a planned summit in Hungary and impose sanctions on Russia's two largest oil companies. 
Five ETF filings in one month mark a turning point for Solana. The scale and speed of these applications show how much institutional interest shifted toward SOL. Analysts estimate that approval could pull in between $3.8 billion and $7.2 billion within the first year. Those numbers mirror the early surge that followed Bitcoin and Ethereum ETF launches and explain why issuers are moving quickly.

SOL's performance is a mix of strong long-term fundamentals and short-term pressure. The ETF headlines created interest, but the recent stretch highlights how sensitive the asset still is to broader risk cycles and technical exhaustion.

October and November brought a clear shift. SOL slipped into a deeper downtrend, sliding more than 30% from the September peak. The selloff accelerated after several failed attempts to reclaim the $190-$200 zone. The chart now shows a break of multiple support levels, with price hovering around the mid-$140 range. Fear replaced the upbeat mood from late summer, and sentiment cooled across the market.

Solana spent the past six months moving through a sharp cycle of optimism, momentum, and a tough correction. It started July near $196 and pushed toward $209 by early September. Traders were positioning for the wave of ETF activity, and the steady climb showed confidence building ahead of the filings. That move stalled once SOL failed to hold above $200. Buyers stepped back, and the chart began to weaken.

Instead of slowing down, major asset managers are lining up products that signal long-term interest. The question now: does this sudden rush mark the early stages of deeper adoption, or just the start of a more competitive race for Solana exposure?

Solana (CRYPTO: SOL) hit a new phase over the past month. Five separate ETF filings landed in just 30 days, and the pace alone shows how sharply Wall Street's focus shifted toward SOL. These filings arrived while the market was trying to make sense of Solana's recent pullback, creating a split between price action and institutional appetite.

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Solana dropped over 30% from Septembers $209 peak to mid-$140s, showing the gap between institutional confidence and near-term price pressure.

Analysts estimate ETF approval could bring between $3.8B and $7.2B into Solana within the first year.

Story Continues

The filings signal something deeper too. They suggest regulators are warming to treating Solana as a commodity. That clears a major hurdle that held some institutions back. CME's launch of SOL futures earlier this year gave funds a way to test exposure. Spot ETFs would complete that setup and allow pension funds, endowments, and larger asset managers to step in through structures they already trust.

This cluster of filings shows Wall Street sees Solana as more than a trend. It sees an asset ready for broader adoption.

The 5 ETF Filings and What Each Represents

bigjom jom / Shutterstock.com

Solana's ETF surge shows how quickly institutional appetite is forming. Each issuer brings a different angle, and together they outline how traditional finance plans to build long-term exposure to SOL.

VanEck Solana Trust (VSOL)

VanEck entered early with a Solana product designed for investors who prefer simple structure and clear custody arrangements. The fund's listed on Cboe BZX and charges a 0.30% management fee, keeping it competitive against peers.

VanEck's long history with crypto ETPs gives it a natural advantage since many advisors already trust the firm's approach. Early timing positions VSOL as the default starting point for institutions that want exposure without waiting for later entrants. This first-mover position could help it capture steady inflows.

21Shares Solana Spot ETF

21Shares gained a major edge by becoming the first issuer to complete the Form 8-A process and secure SEC approval. Timing matters because institutions often prefer the issuer that crosses the finish line first.

The firm already runs a wide range of crypto ETPs in Europe, which means it understands operational details like staking, redemptions, and product maintenance. This background gives investors confidence that the Solana ETF will run smoothly. The early approval cements 21Shares as a reliable, compliant choice for investors seeking a straightforward option.

Fidelity Solana Fund

Fidelity's filing came later, but the firm operates with a long view. Its decision to enter the Solana ETF space signals belief in Solana's durability and its potential to attract large, traditional allocators. Fidelity serves pensions, endowments, and major institutions that prefer dealing with a manager they already know.

This built-in audience could give the Solana fund a strong launch even without first-mover status. Fidelity's custody network, research teams, and deep infrastructure make it a comfortable home for cautious institutional capital interested in Solana exposure.

Bitwise Solana ETF

Bitwise is taking a more thematic approach, appealing to investors who care about Solana's ecosystem rather than simply its price. The firm already runs a European Solana ETP that pays staking yield, showing it understands how to structure products around Solana's economics.

Bitwise built a reputation for producing detailed research and ecosystem insights, which appeals to advisors who want more context before allocating. Its Solana ETF aims to capture institutions seeking a product with more depth than passive tracking. This makes Bitwise a strong choice for research-driven investors.

Grayscale Solana ETF (Conversion)

Grayscale's plan to convert its existing Solana Trust into an ETF gives it instant traction. Trust holders can shift into the ETF without triggering taxable events, making the transition smoother than starting fresh. This strategy worked well with Grayscale's Bitcoin and Ethereum conversions, which brought large asset pools into ETF format on day one.

The firm already manages tens of billions across crypto products, and even a small fraction moving into Solana would put the ETF among the largest. The conversion approach positions Grayscale for immediate scale and strong liquidity.

Solana Price Prediction 2026: Bullish, Base, and Bearish Projections

Creativa Images / Shutterstock.com

Solana's next major move in 2026 depends on how ETF inflows evolve, how stable the network stays, and whether demand from real-world applications keeps growing. These three paths outline what the year could look like.

Bullish Case: $425-$600

A strong bullish setup forms if ETF inflows accelerate and Solana maintains network stability throughout 2026. Institutions bringing in more than $5 billion would provide steady buying pressure, and successful tokenized securities partnerships could pull new capital into the ecosystem.

Merchant-facing tools like Stripe integrations would help build retail utility, while steady meme-coin activity would keep transaction volume high. If SOL clears the $250 level early in the year and holds it, a run toward $300 becomes realistic. From there, sustained demand could push it toward the $425-$500 range by year-end, with $600 representing the upper edge of what strong institutional allocations could support.

Base Case: $250-$350

The base outlook assumes ETF approvals land, but inflows come in slower than Bitcoin or Ethereum's early cycles. Solana stays healthy above the $200 zone, yet faces competition as institutions weigh Bitcoin dominance and Ethereum's recovery. Real-world asset adoption grows but doesn't explode, and macro conditions stay mixed.

Under this setup, SOL gradually climbs toward $250-$295 through the first half of 2026. The market then settles into a steady band between $280 and $300 if liquidity remains stable. This path lines up with the middle range of most analyst forecasts, which cluster between $255 and $305.

Bearish Case: $140-$200

A bearish turn becomes likely if ETF inflows disappoint or if Solana faces a major technical setback. Weak institutional demand would leave the market depending on retail flows, which can shrink quickly during volatile periods. A rival chain gaining traction or any network outage would deepen the pressure. Broader weakness in crypto could drag SOL back toward earlier support zones near $118-$125.

If sentiment stays weak, prices may drift between $140 and $175 for much of the year, with brief rallies toward $200 failing to sustain. Even in this scenario, most analysts still expect downside to slow above the $150 area because of long-term interest from larger investors.

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SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) -Adobe and Qualcomm said on Wednesday they are partnering with Humain, the artificial intelligence firm backed by Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, to help the AI company develop tools for generating content in Arabic and for the broader Middle East.

The deal is one of several expected on Wednesday at a U.S.-Saudi investment forum being held as Saudi Arabian Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman visits Washington. Bin Salman on Tuesday met with U.S. President Donald Trump, who hosted a dinner with the crown prince and U.S. government and business leaders.

Adobe said it will integrate Allam, a large language model trained in Arabic, into its suite of apps used to create marketing campaigns, films and television shows. Humain will in turn use what the San Jose, California, company calls Adobe Firefly Foundry to "create tailored, generative AI models unique to the Arab world," according to an announcement from the firms.

The AI systems will run in data centers being developed by Humain and use chips from Qualcomm, which last month introduced new chips called the AI200 and AI250. Qualcomm's chips will handle the work of generating videos created by the models Humain is developing.

We are building a new creative intelligence that understands our language, our values, our heritage, and our future with Adobe," Tareq Amin, CEO of Humain, said in a statement. "With the addition of Qualcomm into the collaboration, we will redefine the silicon that powers the next era of generative AI. Together, we are leading in developing creative AI for a new global era.

Separately, Qualcomm said it plans to open a research and development center with Humain in Riyadh next month. The center will support the two firms' plans to roll out 200 megawatts worth of Qualcomm's data center AI chips next year, Qualcomm said.

(Reporting by Stephen Nellis in San Francisco; Editing by Matthew Lewis)
This story was originally published on Payments Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Payments Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Adyens president for the North America region, Davi Strazza, is leaving the Dutch payments processor after helping to build one of the strongest infrastructures in global fintech, he said Friday on social media outlets LinkedIn and X.

After nearly 11 years at Adyen, Ive decided its time to move on, he said on the social media sites. Strazza didnt specify his departure date from Adyen, or say where he plans to work next. He had been in the role for about three years.

Gary Yang, the companys senior vice president of global account management and partnerships, will take over from Strazza to lead the region, while the company seeks a successor, an Adyen spokesperson said Monday by email. That search process is already underway, the spokesperson said.

Dive Insight:

Adyen, a global business based in Amsterdam, has been investing heavily to expand in North America, particularly in the U.S., the largest market on the continent.

When Strazza talked about the companys North America strategy in June, he noted that the U.S. is where many of the companys large clients are based. He said they included Cinemark Holdings, Patagonia, Etsy and eBay. The company has also previously named retailers Crate & Barrel and Dicks Sporting Goods as customers.

But processor competition is fierce, with well-established rivals, including Global Payments, also spearheading growth. For instance, Global Payments this year agreed to acquire merchant services company Worldpay in a $24-billion deal. Processor behemoth Fiserv has also been aggressive in seeking to build out its Clover brand.

In addition, the processor market is teeming with fast-maturing start-ups, such as Shift4 Payments and Blocks Square, that are also battling to provide checkout services to restaurants, retailers and other merchants.

Adyen provides point-of-sale hardware as well as processing software services in-store as well as online. North America ranked as the companys second-highest revenue-generating region last year, contributing 27% of the top line. Europe, the Middle East and Africa collectively accounted for 57%, according to Adyens 2024 annual report.

Strazza has been based in San Francisco, where Adyen had its biggest employee group, with about 300 workers as of June, followed by about 250 each in Chicago and New York, and 30 in Canada, he said.
Atomico partner Tom Wehmeier speaks on the subject "The State Of European Tech" at the Digital Life Design (DLD) conference in Munich. Matthias Balk/dpa

German start-ups are attracting more capital again as investor interest in artificial intelligence (AI) and defence technology rises sharply, according to an industry report published on Wednesday.

Tech companies in Germany are expected to receive around $7.4 billion in funding this year, about 10% more than in 2024, venture capital firm Atomico said in its annual State of European Tech report.

That would make Germany the second-largest destination for venture funding in Europe after the United Kingdom. Across Europe, venture capital investment is forecast to grow by 7% to $44 billion.

Atomico partner Tom Wehmeier said technology has moved far beyond being a single industry and now drives change across government, defence, energy, finance and healthcare.

Deep-tech and AI firms accounted for 36% of all European venture capital funding, the report said.

Investment in defence-related technology rose 55% to $1.6 billion, led by Munich-based Helsing, which specializes in AI for defence companies and raised about $660 million in June.

The report also notes that German investors are gaining ground. While London still dominated the European venture capital landscape in 2024, hosting eight of the region's 10 largest funds, three German funds have climbed into the top 10 this year.

Atomico expects around 14 billion to be invested in AI across Europe in 2025. The continent has produced prominent AI companies such as Cologne-based DeepL, Heidelberg's Aleph Alpha and Stockholm-based Lovable.

However, the United States remains far ahead, with an estimated $146 billion flowing into AI this year, which is more than 10 times the European level.
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants (AICPA) and Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) have collaborated with Thomas Adewumi University and Landmark University to offer the CGMA Finance Leadership Programme.

This digital, self-paced programme enables accounting and finance students to access learning and assessment opportunities remotely.

It serves as a route for students to complete CIMAs CGMA Professional Qualification and attain the CGMA designation.

The programme uses real-world case simulations to teach finance, accounting, business, leadership, people, and digital skills relevant for current professional environments.

It offers online access to learning resources for those aiming for roles in business and finance.

The format is designed to fit alongside university studies, allowing students to build on their existing qualifications and experience.

Students who finish the programme and meet practical experience requirements can earn the CGMA designation and become members of CIMA.

This initiative allows them to start their professional journey while continuing their academic studies at either Thomas Adewumi University or Landmark University.

Association of International Certified Professional Accountants, the global alliance formed by AICPA and CIMA, associate director  Nigeria Ijeoma Anadozie said: We are proud to partner with Thomas Adewumi University and Landmark University to help nurture accounting, finance, and business talent in Nigeria.

Through the CGMA Finance Leadership Program, students will gain critical, globally recognised skills to help them stand out in a competitive job market, and prepare them to build successful, sustainable careers.

In October 2025, AICPA released a biennial report that indicated a strong hiring forecast for accounting firms.

According to the report, 75% of firms that brought on new employees in 2024 are expected to maintain or increase their recruitment levels in 2025.

"AICPA and CIMA partner with Nigerian universities" was originally created and published by The Accountant, a GlobalData owned brand.




Alkermes appears to have successfully hit back with a counteroffer to buy sleep disorder drugmaker Avadel, following Lundbecks last-minute bid to acquire the latter.

The latest offer saw Alkermes put up to $2.37bn on the table for Avadel  a sweetened price from its original offer of $2.1bn. Avadel has accepted the offer, deeming the Lundbeck offer no longer superior

Alkermes latest offer comprises a total transaction consideration of $22.50 a share, with the potential for an additional payment of $1.50 a share upon the potential approval of Avadels lead asset, Lumryz (sodium oxybate), in idiopathic hypersomnia (IH).

If the transaction is successful, Alkermes will gain the rights to Lumryz, which was granted US approval for the treatment of cataplexy or excessive daytime sleepiness in narcoleptic patients in 2023. Since then, the drug also won approval from the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for paediatric patients aged seven years and up.

According to analysts at GlobalData, Pharmaceutical Technology's parent company, Lumryz is estimated to make $625m in 2031, meaning the drug could become one of the companys best-selling assets. In 2024, Alkermes number one seller was drug dependence treatment Vivitrol (naltrexone), which pulled in $457m for the company.

Avadel previously agreed to a merger deal with Alkermes in October 2025. The agreement, which was assumed to be a done deal, was then intercepted by Danish pharma Lundbeck via an unsolicited bid, offering up to $2.4bn to buy the company. Avadels board previously called the offer superior.

In light of Alkermes revised bid and following conversations with its legal counsel and financial advisers, Avadels board has determined that the Lundbeck proposal is no longer a company superior proposal. This is due to the terms of the contingent value right (CVR) included in the Lundbeck offer, which was determined to be unlikely to be achieved.

Pharma hands-on in M&A push

The bidding war between Alkermes and Lundbeck looks familiar to the recent back-and-forth between Pfizer and Novo Nordisk, which saw the latter make a last-minute counteroffer to acquire obesity biotech Metsera.

At the time, Metsera viewed this as a superior proposal to Pfizers original offer, though the biotech later changed its tack. This came after a bidding rally, which ensued following Pfizers choice to file a lawsuit against Metsera and Novo Nordisk. The suit alleged that the two companies had breached Pfizers previous contractual merger agreement..

Pfizer eventually prevailed, securing a $10bn deal to acquire Metsera this month. Similar to the Alkermes-Lundbeck showdown, Metsera chose to go with Pfizer due to legal considerations.
Saint-Laurent, QC (H4T1V6)

Today

Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 17F. NE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches..

Tonight

Snow this evening will give way to lingering snow showers late. Low 17F. NE winds shifting to WNW at 10 to 20 mph. Chance of snow 80%. Snow accumulating 1 to 3 inches.
Lending by Allica Bank to established small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Britain contributed 5.8bn ($7.6bn) to GDP in 2024.

The GDP contribution included 2.2bn direct; 1.8bn indirect; and 1.8bn induced.

Allica Bank disclosed this data in its newly commissioned report from Oxford Economics.

As per the report, the banks lending generated 1.4bn in tax revenues and supported more than 84,000 jobs in the country, one in every 440 jobs.

Allica Bank has expanded its operations since it began five years ago and issued its first loan in March 2020.

Last year, it had provided more than 1.5bn in loans to SMEs, with cumulative lending exceeding 3bn by that year end.

This figure has now reached more than 3.5bn this year so far.

Lending has supported employment across various regions, including nearly 10,000 jobs in the North West, 8,900 in the West Midlands region, and 7,700 in the East Midlands.

The effect on employment share was highest in Wales and the North East.

Allica Banks approach includes technology combined with a relationship manager team focused on understanding SME requirements.

The team is expected to double its size within the year.

The release of this research follows a period of expansion for Allica Bank, which recently completed its third acquisition by purchasing UK embedded finance company Kriya.

This move is intended to help the bank penetrate 10% of the established SME finance market by 2028-end and aims to facilitate an initial 1bn in working capital finance for SMEs.

Allica Bank CEO Richard Davies said: "Established SMEs are the engine of Britain. Yet for too long theyve been underserved by the incumbent banks and Im delighted to see this change as challengers like Allica support them in ways which really make a difference.

Every 1m in lending issued by Allica enables our established SME customers to contribute 2.4m to UK GDP, provide 35 jobs and 600,000 in tax revenue. Thats a direct impact  creating jobs, unlocking investment and helping power growth across all corners of the country.

In April 2025, Allica reported a 55.2% increase in profit after tax, reaching 29.8m ($39.54m) in 2024, compared with 19.2m in 2023.

"Allica Bank SME lending contributes 5.8bn to UK GDP in 2024: report" was originally created and published by Leasing Life, a GlobalData owned brand.






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The Supreme Court today took an uncompromising stand on the high-profile Citizens Whistle Blower Forum case seeking an SIT probe into alleged irregularities at erstwhile Indiabulls Housing Finance Ltd (IHFL), now Sammaan Capital. The bench, comprising Justices Surya Kant, Ujjal Bhuyan, and N Kotiswar Singh, made scathing observations about the double standards of the Securities and Exchange Board of India (SEBI) and a surprisingly cool attitude from the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

During the day, Sammaan Capital plunged, settling around 13 per cent lower at close.

Justice Kants rebuke: Every day, we see double standards of SEBI! The bench pointed out that while SEBI claims sole authority in certain matters such as property auctions, it appears hesitant to exercise its investigatory powers, raising concerns over possible vested interests.

CBIs laid-back approach in the investigation drew further judicial ire, with Justice Kant remarking, We have never seen such a friendly attitude...this is ultimately public money...there is a strong element of public interest.

The lack of FIR

The case itself revolves around claims of fund round-tripping, violations of the Companies Act, and large-scale siphoning allegedly orchestrated by the promoters of Indiabulls, its subsidiaries, and related parties. Previous agency reports, including one from the CBI, affirmed that allegations of money laundering were prima facie well-placed, yet the lack of a registered FIR to kickstart a comprehensive probe was a sticking point in the latest hearing.

ASG SV Raju, representing both the CBI and the Serious Fraud Investigation Office (SFIO), briefed the Court on prior complaints and procedural efforts, but these had not triggered an investigation as expected.

Advocate Prashant Bhushan, for the petitioner, urged that a formal FIR be registered by the CBI, underlining the need for a unified effort by senior officers from the CBI, SFIO, Enforcement Directorate (ED), and SEBI.

Sammaan Capital stock performance

Investor reaction was swift, with Sammaan Capital shares plummeting by 13 per cent following the news.

The bench concluded by demanding a new affidavit from CBI and the production of EOWs inquiry records on the EDs complaint.

Company clarification

Sammaan Capital stated that there were no open investigations pertaining to the allegations in the PIL against the company with any investigative agency, and added that no FIR has been directed to be filed against it. It further clarified that Wednesdays developments have no bearing on the transaction with IHC. Both IHC and Sammaan Capital are focused on obtaining requisite permissions for speedy consummation of the transaction, which will make IHC the promoter of SCL.

Mukul Rohatgi, Senior Advocate and counsel for Sammaan Capital, said in a statement: The present petition before the Supreme Court does not contain any allegation against Sammaan Capital. The Court has referred to concerns raised about the previous promoter, Sameer Gehlaut, who has no shareholding or involvement in the company today. The court has clarified in its order that it has made no observations on the merits of these allegations and has merely permitted the authorities to re-examine the matter. We have no objection to this process. Since there is no allegation from any authority against Sammaan Capital, we are fully open to any inquiry the agencies may wish to conductonce, twice, or even thrice. We have nothing to hide.
Maharashtra has taken a historic step as the first state in India to formalise a nuclear energy partnership. The state inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Nuclear Power Corporation of India Limited (NPCIL) and Maharashtra State Power Generation Company (MAHAGENCO), alongside the Maharashtra Institution for Transformation (MITRA).

This partnership aims to explore the co-development of advanced nuclear power plants in the state, in line with Indias clean energy ambitions

Earlier this week, NPCIL, MAHAGENCO, and MITRA signed the MoU to collaborate in the field of nuclear energy development in the state.

The signing was attended by leading dignitaries and officials, including Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis, senior scientists, administrative heads, and energy experts.

The MoU is the first of its kind, with Maharashtra becoming the first state in the country to formalise such a partnership. Chief Minister Fadnavis expressed delight in the state leading this initiative, stating that Maharashtra is the first state in the country to enter into such an MoU. He congratulated the participating organisations and affirmed that the state government will extend all necessary support to ensure successful implementation.

Present at the event were senior officials, such as NPCIL MD Bhuwan Chandra Pathak, MAHAGENCO MD Radhakrishnan B, MITRA Joint CEOs Aman Mittal and Praveen Singh Pardeshi, and Additional Chief Secretary - Energy Abha Shukla, along with technical and project directors from NPCIL.

This strategic partnership reinforces NPCILs commitment to deliver safe, reliable, and sustainable nuclear power, supporting Indias long-term clean energy and energy-security objectives, read a statement from the Department of Atomic Energy.


(Reuters) -Shares in Amkor Technology rose more than 8% in after-the-bell trading on Wednesday during Nvidia's conference call after the AI chip leader's chief financial officer named Amkor among companies it plans to work with on chip packaging.

Amkor shares were last at $33.58 after hitting a high of $34.75 after closing the regular session up 2.4% at $31.43.

Nvidia CFO Colette Kress told investors the company plans to work with Amkor and Siliconware Precision Industries Co Ltd to expand its U.S. manufacturing footprint over the next four years.

Nvidia last month said it produced its first "Blackwell" AI chips at Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co's Arizona factory but before those chips can be sold, they must be shipped to Taiwan for an advanced packaging process.

(Reporting by Sinead Carew, Stephen Nellis; Editing by Chris Reese)
Infosys founder Narayana Murthy has reignited the debate over longer work hours and a 72-hour work week, this time citing a Chinese model of work hours and week.

In a recent interview to a TV channel, Murthy, who in the past, faced flak for pitching a 72-hour work week, has once again asked Indians to work longer.

"Last year, Catamaran senior and middle-level staff went to China, and they went to tier 1 cities, tier 2 cities and tier 3 cities. They stayed in tier 3 kind of hotels because we wanted to understand the real China. There is a saying in China, 9, 9, 6. You know what it means? 9 am to 9 pm, 6 days a week. And that is a 72-hour work week, the Infosys founder has been quoted as saying.

He claimed that the longer working hours helped China to achieve rapid economic growth.

So, what's the 9-9-6 rule?

The 9-9-6 rule refers to employees working from 9 am to 9 pm, six days a week. This would come to a total of 72 hours, an idea that the Infosys founder pitched earlier as well.

However, the Chinese authorities had in 2021, issued a warning that such punishing work hours is illegal.

"Legally, workers have the right to corresponding compensation and rest times or holidays. Complying with national working hours is the obligation of employers," the notice from Chinese authorities warned.

According to China's labour laws, a standard working day is only eight hours long and a work week is 44 hours. Work exceeding these stipulated hours requires extra pay.

However, according to media reports, the labour laws were not exactly enforced well and the brutal 996 work culture went on, forcing the government to issue a warning in 2021.
Taking note of Pakistan's strike capabilities, as observed during Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army and the Indian Air Force have decided to place orders for 16 indigenous drone detection and interdiction systems. These laser-based anti-drone systems would be capable of intercepting unmanned aerial systems as far as two kilometres away.

ALSO READ | Operation Sindoor: India must reflect on key lessons from conflict with Pakistan

Pakistan had fired waves of Turkish kamikaze drones towards Indian positions during the standoff, which were neutralised using Akash missiles-led air defence systems. The BSF is also constantly engaging drones entering the country from Pakistan, further underlining the need to prepare for the threat posed by UAVs.

The news comes at a time when the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) is said to be busy developing long-range laser-based drone detection and interception systems. Earlier, India had field tested vehicle-mounted laser-based weapon systems which could target airborne UAV threats a kilometre away. It was the DRDO-linked Centre for High Energy Systems & Sciences (CHESS) that conducted the field demonstration in Kurnool, Andhra Pradesh.

ALSO READ | Pakistan's 'Sufra' to counter cross-border suicide UAVs from far. Do you know how drone jamming guns work?

The Defence Ministry is expected to approve the procurement of the DRDOs Integrated Drone Detection and Interdiction System (Mark 2), which uses a 10-kilowatt laser beam to take out incoming drones, reported news agency ANI. "The DRDO has also successfully test-fired the direct energy weapon system, which can target systems at 5 km and is carrying out its trials with the involvement of the Indian defence forces. The 5 km strike capability will be achieved by a 30-kilowatt laser-based direct energy weapon," the ANI report said.

In April, India had joined the elite group of nations with the capability to shoot down fixed-wing aircraft, missiles, and swarm drones using a 30-kilowatt laser-based weapon system. USA, China, and Russia are the other countries to have developed the technology ahead of New Delhi.

ALSO READ | Pakistans drone confession: Strategic statement of a client state

Every win in further improving the maximum range of Mark 2 and other laser-based anti-drone and anti-missile defence system offers a further boost to India's armed forces as modern battlefields are going to witness swarms of UAVs being launched at enemy positions.
Soon after the military conflict between India and Pakistan in May, China launched a disinformation campaign using fake social media accounts as part of its 'Gray Zone' activities, a recent report claimed.

The US-China Economic and Security Review Commission, a US Congress-created advisory body, in its annual report also noted that Beijing opportunistically leveraged the conflict to advertise the sophistication of its weapons.

China initiated a disinformation campaign to hinder sales of French Rafale aircraft in favour of its own J-35s, using fake social media accounts to propagate AI images of supposed 'debris' from the planes that Chinas weaponry destroyed, the report said.

India launched Operation Sindoor, a military campaign against the terrorist hubs in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, in May in retaliation to the Pahalgam massacre.

The attack sparked a brief but intense military conflict between the nuclear-armed neighbours, with Pakistan launching a drone strike on India. The Indian forces hit back, inflicting heavy damage to several military installations and airbases inside Pakistan.

Pakistan claimed that it shot down five Indian jets, including Dassault Aviation-made Rafales, though India has never confirmed it. Indias Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan has admitted that a few of its fighter jets were downed, but the forces have categorically denied having lost Rafales during the conflict.

In August, Indian Air Force Chief A.P. Singh revealed that the Indian forces had destroyed five Pakistani fighter jets and one large airborne surveillance aircraft during Operation Sindoor.

India-China border issue

The report by the US advisory body stated that there was an asymmetry between India and China regarding the resolution of the border issue.

China leverages high-level, well-publicised dialogues to reach partial resolutionshoping to open the door for bilateral cooperation on trade and other areas by compartmentalising the border issue without sacrificing its core interests, while India wants a sustainable solution to the border issues," it said.

The report further noted that the Indian government has increasingly recognised the seriousness of the threat posed by China at the border in recent years.
The Indian Army's Spear Corps joined hands with paramilitary forces and the Arunachal Pradesh Police Department to conduct a civil-military preparedness drill in the northeastern state. Named 'Exercise Samanjasya', the civil administrations of Lohitpur in Namsai district and Roing in Lower Dibang Valley district also supported the successful completion of the drill.

The primary objective of 'Exercise Samanjasya' was strengthening cooperation and response capabilities of the armed forces, administration, and civilians in the strategically important state, a Defence Ministry official said on Tuesday. Such drills are vital in developing an integrated approach to security management, resource optimisation, and joint operational readiness, the official was quoted as telling news agency PTI.

Spear Corps, or the III Corps of the Indian Army, headquartered in Nagaland's Dimapur, is tasked with protecting the India-China border in Arunachal Pradesh and overall operational duties in the Northeast. The name comes from its original role in counter-insurgency operations in the region and its mission to act as a "spearhead", a report said.

The exercise was instrumental in boosting the region's security architecture and enhancing operational effectiveness across multiple domains. The sessions were designed to enhance preparedness, streamline response mechanisms, and ensure the protection of critical infrastructure across the region. It also reaffirmed the Indian Army's commitment to collaborative planning and a whole-of-government approach to managing future contingencies, the source was quoted as saying by PTI.

The initiative marks a significant step towards strengthening Military-Civil Fusion as an integrated approach toward security management and optimal utilisation of resources was fundamental in case of critical operations.
A few weeks ago, defence PSU major Hindustan Aeronautics (HAL) announced that it inked a deal with American defence major GE Aerospace to procure 113 jet engines for its Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA) programme. Under the deal, the delivery of F404-GE-IN20 engines will begin from 2027 and is expected to be completed by 2032.

As GE begins the supply of engines, in the next 24 to 36 months, HAL will be able to supply eight Tejas Mk1A fighter jets to the Indian Air Force (IAF) before significantly increasing the number of jets it will supply.

According to a Moneycontrol report, the initial delivery cycle may remain modest as the company stabilises its production line after GE starts the supply of the engines.

The signing of the contract to supply engines has been delayed due to cost negotiations.

HAL and GE had to align on escalating costs before locking the supply roadmap. The first phase is naturally slower. That has pushed the early aircraft deliveries into an eight-unit window over 2436 months, Moneycontrol quoted a source as saying.

ALSO READ: OPINION | Challenges in modernising Indias military

According to internal delivery charts, three major tranches of 24 fighter jets each will be rolled out after months 37, 49 and 61, and the final tranche of 12 fighters will arrive in months 73-84.

An official has been quoted as saying, Once the line reaches steady rhythm, three full blocks of 24 jets each will move out almost back-to-back. The final 12-unit batch will close the Mk1A order around the seventh year. After that, deliveries for additional variants can be slotted.

The official explained that HAL ordered 113 for now as engines have a defined shelf life, and added that more engines will be ordered as the Tejas fleet expands.

The defence ministry, in September, sealed a Rs 62,370 crore deal with the HAL to procure 97 Tejas MK1A single-engine multi-role fighter aircraft for the IAF, which is facing a major shortage of fighter squadrons. This is in addition to the Rs 48,000 crore deal for 83 Tejas Mk1A jets signed in 2021.
CLAIM:

Betel leaf can aid digestion, reduce acidity and bloating, improve oral health, and relieve chest congestion when warmed with ghee or mustard oil and placed on the chest.

FACT:

Experts caution that excessive or frequent use can cause irritation or other long-term issues, and applying it warm on the chest mainly provides relief through heat and improved circulation rather than treating respiratory conditions.

Every day, social media is flooded with health tips and home remedies that claim to transform your well-being. The latest trend features the use of paan ka patta, or betel leaf, as a natural remedy for various ailments.

In a viral reel posted by Dr Saleem Zaidi, who claims to be an Ayurvedic and Unani medicine expert, he talks about the multiple health benefits of betel leaves.

In the video, Dr Zaidi explains the multiple health benefits of betel leaf, calling it a simple yet powerful natural remedy for everyday ailments.

This leaf reduces bad breath and bacterial infections, he says. With regular use, it makes gums and teeth stronger. In olden days, it was used as a natural toothpaste.

Dr Zaidi also mentions its traditional use for relieving cold, cough, and chest congestion. He advises that warming the leaf with ghee or mustard oil and placing it on the chest can help reduce congestion and make breathing easier.

Can betel leaf really aid digestion and relieve acidity?

Research evidence suggests that it may. A 2014 study conducted on Piper betle leaves grown in Sri Lanka investigated their potential gastroprotective effects, as the leaves had traditionally been used as a remedy for gastric ulcers but had not been scientifically validated in this context. The study evaluated the gastroprotective activity of both hot aqueous extract (HAE) and cold ethanolic extract (CEE) in rats, using ethanol-induced gastric ulcers as the experimental model. Three doses of both extracts (200, 300, and 500 mg/kg body weight) were tested, assessing parameters such as mucus content adhering to the gastric mucosa, gastric juice volume, acidity, and pH. The study found that oral administration of HAE and CEE provided marked dose-dependent and significant protection against gastric damage caused by absolute ethanol.

The gastroprotective activity of the highest dose of both extracts was significantly greater than that of misoprostol, the reference drug. Furthermore, HAE significantly increased the mucus content adhering to the wall of the gastric mucosa and inhibited the volume of gastric acid, although total and free acidity as well as pH remained unaltered. The study concluded that both HAE and CEE of P. betle leaves have a strong gastroprotective activity, supporting its traditional use for improving digestive health.

Beyond this, traditional knowledge suggests that chewing betel leaves stimulates digestion and promotes salivary gland secretion. Preliminary studies have also shown that oral administration of betel leaf can significantly stimulate rat intestinal mucosa, enhance bile production, and increase the activity of pancreatic digestive enzymes. Betel leaves are noted to be rich in vitamins, minerals, and enzymes such as catalase and diastase, along with essential amino acids including arginine, lysine, and histidine, contributing to their nutritive value.

Earlier research on betel leaf primarily focused on specific extract components, but the significance of its full phyto-component profile is increasingly recognised. The leaves contain a combination of vitamins, minerals, essential oils, and bioactive compounds that may have therapeutic potential beyond digestion, including benefits for heart, liver, and brain health.

However, Dr (Prof.) Anil Arora, Senior Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, with over 35 years of experience, discussed the digestive benefits attributed to betel leaf. He emphasised that unless you know the exact composition of betel leaf, it is difficult to say it can control acidity. Natural foods do not have the same acid-neutralising capacity as antacids.

Dr Arora explained that studies are limited and cannot be generalised. He added, Unless you can pinpoint that the leaf contains anti-inflammatory or antioxidant compounds that provide a protective effect, claims about controlling acidity or improving digestion remain unproven scientifically.

More research is required to validate the health claims of betel leaf. Traditional knowledge may suggest benefits, but large-scale, controlled studies are necessary before we can fully recommend it for digestive health, he said.

Does betel leaf actually improve oral hygiene?

A 2022 study looked at how Piper betle leaf extract affects bacteria that cause dental caries, one of the most common oral diseases. The study found that the extract contains useful compounds like tannins, steroids, phenolics, and alkaloids. It was effective against Bacillus gaemokensis, a bacteria that forms biofilms, and some specific compounds showed even stronger antibacterial activity. The extract reduced bacterial growth, stopped biofilm formation by 70%, and broke down existing biofilms by 58%.

P. betle can serve a potentially therapeutic role and could be used in the preparation of herbal formulations for managing bacterial flora, the study said.

Additionally, studies on chewing betel leaves showed that saliva obtained after mastication of a whole leaf reduced oral microflora by approximately 56%. Piper betle is traditionally used to combat bad breath and prevent tooth decay, and it exhibits broad-spectrum antimicrobial activity against several bacteria, including Staphylococcus aureus, Bacillus cereus, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Escherichia coli.

While betel leaf alone may offer short-term oral benefits, the traditional preparation of paan often includes areca nut, slaked lime, and mechanical chewing, which can have harmful long-term effects. Frequent use in this form is associated with tooth discolouration, enamel erosion, periodontal disease, mucosal lesions, and an increased risk of oral cancer. Therefore, the potential oral health benefits of plain betel leaf should be distinguished from the risks posed by common paan preparations.

Dr Anand S, Specialist in Oral Medicine and Radiology at MIDAC Dental Centre, Kozhikode, explained that betel leaf has long been recognised in Ayurvedic studies for its antimicrobial properties, ability to improve salivation, and potential benefits for digestion. He noted, however, that excessive use or continuous chewing, even without areca nut, can cause irritation for some people because betel leaf contains strong essential oils.

This irritation can range from mild to moderate, but long-term use may lead to chronic mucosal irritation and minor alterations in the oral cavity, Dr Anand said. He also pointed out that frequent consumption could result in tooth staining, and commercially available leaves might carry pesticide residues.

Regarding safe use, Dr Anand advised, A very small amount of fresh leaves used occasionally is generally safe, but I do not recommend regular or excessive use, as it can cause irritation.

Can applying warm betel leaf on the chest relieve cough and congestion?

A 2020 study found that betel leaf extracts exhibit strong antiviral activity against respiratory viruses, including influenza, with phenolic compounds in the leaf helping to inhibit viral replication and reduce the severity and duration of infections. The leafs antibacterial properties may also help prevent secondary bacterial infections that often occur alongside colds.

The study also noted that nevertheless, betel leaf extract (Piper betle L.) needs to be further investigated before it can be used as an alternative therapy for bacterial conjunctivitis and other bacterial conjunctivitis pathogen, such as in vivo testing and toxicity testing in animal models.

Additionally, peer-reviewed papers note that betel leaves have traditionally been used to support pulmonary health in children and the elderly. When soaked in mustard oil and gently warmed, the leaves may be applied to the chest to help relieve cough and ease breathing difficulties.

Dr Harish Chafle, Senior Consultant Chest Physician and Bronchoscopist at Gleneagles Hospitals, Mumbai, explained that some home remedies suggest using betel leaf for relief from cough or chest congestion. He noted that ultimately, what provides relief is the warmth of the leaf when applied, which improves local circulation.

Dr Chafle added, Even if you put a warm towel on your chest, you will start feeling better. The warmth dilates blood vessels, increasing blood flow to the area. This enhanced circulation can help wash away substances that induce pain and improve oxygen and nutrient delivery, which may ease discomfort from breathing difficulty or cough.

However, he cautioned that betel leaf should be considered only as a very generic home remedy. I would not recommend it as a treatment for respiratory conditions, he said.

This story is done in collaboration with First Check, which is the health journalism vertical of DataLEADS.
At least 50 CPI (Maoist) cadres were arrested across five districts of Andhra Pradesh in a major anti-Naxal operation, which coincided with the killing of top Maoist commander Madvi Hidma in an encounter at Maredumilli in Alluri Seetharam Raju district on Tuesday.

Thirty-nine weapons, 302 rounds of ammunition, detonators, cordtex wire, communication devices and Rs 13 lakh in cash from various locations were recovered during the operation.

"Following Hidma's killing, we launched a coordinated intelligence-driven operation across five districts and apprehended 50 CPI (Maoist) cadres," said ADGP Intelligence Mahesh Chandra Laddha.

Also read Who is Madvi Hidma? The Dantewada massacre mastermind killed in Andhra encounter

The arrested cadres included special zonal committee members, divisional committee members, area committee members and regular party members.

The operation was carried out by joint teams of the State Intelligence Department, Special Investigation Branch (SIB) and district police units across Krishna, Eluru, NTR, Kakinada and Konaseema districts.

"The entire operation was executed with silent precision, ensuring no cadre escaped and no civilian was harmed," SIB chief PHD Ramakrishna told PTI news agency.

On Tuesday, at least seven Maoists, including Madvi Hidma, one of the most-wanted Maoist commanders, were killed in an early morning encounter with security personnel in Alluri Sitaramaraju district of Andhra Pradesh.

Hidma, also known as Hidmalu, is responsible for at least 26 armed attacks against security forces and civilians in the country.

He is believed to be the mastermind behind the 2010 Dantewada massacre, the deadliest attack by the Maoists on Indian security forces, in which 76 CRPF soldiers lost their lives.
An Enforcement Directorate (ED) investigation has revealed that Haryana-based Al Falah University generated proceeds of crime worth Rs 415 crore by fraudulently inducing students to join it based on false accreditation and recognition claims.

In a remand report filed before a Delhi court after the arrest of Al Falah group chairman Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, the agency said an analysis of the Income Tax returns of the institution revealed that substantial revenues were shown as voluntary contributions and educational receipts.

The university came under the radar of the central security agencies after three doctors working there were found to be involved in the conspiracy of the car blast that rocked the Red Fort area of Delhi on November 10.

The ED launched its investigation after taking cognisance of the first information reports filed by the National Investigation Agency (NIA) and the Delhi Police. It arrested Siddiqui on Tuesday evening after conducting raids at several locations linked to the university in the national capital.

The ED analysed the I-T returns of the university from Financial Year (FY) 2014-15 to FY 2024-25the period after the university's establishment. It informed the court that the aggregate income from years when institutions lacked valid accreditation stands at Rs 415.10 crore.

The agency argued that a custodial interrogation of Siddiqui was essential to uncover fee structures, donations, inter-entity fund flows, and any benami or off-book assets created using illicit funds.

Al Falah University is accused of having lured students into admissions by falsely claiming a UGC 12B certificate on its official website. It also allegedly accepted admissions despite its National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation having expired in 2018.

The Delhi Police and the Crime Branch have already filed two separate FIRs against the institution under charges of cheating and forgery.
Nitish Kumar will take oath as the chief minister of Bihar for the tenth time, underscoring his unusual longevity in state politics. His rise from a socialist leader in the 1970s to one of Indias most durable regional leaders has been defined by a focus on governance, an ability to read social coalitions and a readiness to shift alliances when needed.

His return to office, again, shows how firmly he has embedded himself in Bihars political structure.

Kumar was chosen as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) legislative party in Patna, backed by Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MLAs and Deputy Chief Ministers Samrat Chaudhary and Vijay Sinha. Chaudhary had earlier been elected leader of the BJP legislative party. Kumar was formally endorsed at the NDA meeting attended by senior leaders, including Dharmendra Pradhan and Chirag Paswan. We will begin implementing the promises made to the people, Paswan said after the meeting.

Earlier, Kumar was elected leader of the Janata Dal (United) legislative party at a meeting at the chief ministers secretariat, attended by all newly elected MLAs and 22 legislative council members. The NDA returned to power with 202 seats in the 243-member assembly; the BJP won 89 seats, JD(U) 85, LJP(RV) 19, HAM 5 and RLM 4.

The swearing-in ceremony will take place at Gandhi Maidan in Patna. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, several Union ministers and Chief Ministers of NDA-ruled states are expected to attend.

BJP leaders said the cabinet will be formed after consultations with the chief minister. Samrat Chaudhary will continue as deputy chief minister, and allies such as LJP, HAM and RLM are expected to join the cabinet. There were last-minute discussions over the allocation of key portfolios, with both JD(U) and BJP seeking the home portfolio and the post of assembly speaker.

The way forward

Expectations from the new government are high after the decisive mandate. Kumars governance record has centred on roads, law and order, school attendance and targeted welfare schemes. His government recently transferred Rs 10,000 to the accounts of more than 1.3 crore women and promised up to Rs 2 lakh for those presenting viable business proposals.

Kumars political appeal among women, extremely backward classes and sections of the rural poor has been one of his most stable assets. With women voters again backing him in large numbers, attention will be on how many women MLAs find a place in the new cabinet.

The NDAs manifesto outlined an ambitious set of targets, with employment as the central pillar: a target of one crore jobs over five years and 30 lakh roles in emerging sectors such as IT, semiconductors and food processing. Mega skill centres in every district are to be upgraded into global skilling centres to support this pipeline.

The Nitish government is expected to focus on industrial expansion. The alliance is committed to manufacturing units in all districts, 10 new industrial parks, 100 MSME parks under the 'Vocal for Local' initiative, and efforts to attract up to Rs 50 lakh crore in investment. Plans for a defence corridor, green energy manufacturing hubs and an economy geared toward export-oriented industries are part of this framework.

Infrastructure promises span transport, health and education. The government aims to build seven expressways, introduce metro rail in four cities beyond Patna and double the pace of economic growth through industrialisation. Health plans include a world-class medicity and medical colleges in every district. Free education from KG to PG, AI-enabled schools and new universities form the core of the education commitments.

Women voters, who were central to the NDAs victory, will shape the early direction of the government. Kumars previous administration transferred Rs 10,000 to over a crore women. The new manifesto builds on this with 'Mission Crorepati Didi' to create one crore women entrepreneurs and provisions of up to Rs 2 lakh under the Chief Minister Mahila Rozgar Yojana. Representation of women MLAs in the cabinet will be closely watched.

Support for the extremely backward classes includes Rs 10 lakh in financial assistance, a commission led by a retired Supreme Court judge to review welfare measures and targeted schemes aligned with rural income patterns. Nitish Kumar enters his new term with political stability, an extensive manifesto and a voter base that expects speed and clarity in execution.
In what is described as the highest level security engagement between New Delhi and Dhaka since the ouster of former PM Sheikh Hasina, National Security Adviser Ajit Doval met his Bangladeshi counterpart Khalilur Rahman in the national capital on Wednesday.

This comes two days after a Bangladeshi tribunal handed death sentence to Hasina who is staying in exile in India. The meeting is believed to have discussed bringing Hasina back to Bangladesh, but there is no official confirmation regarding this.

A press released by the interim government in Dhaka said that both sides discussed key "bilateral issues". Rahman, who is helming the Bangladesh delegation for the seventh NSA Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) meeting, also discussed the work of the conclave during the huddle.

Bangladesh has invited Doval to visit Dhakha "at his convenience".

"Bangladesh delegation to the Seventh NSA-level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), led by the National Security Adviser, Dr Khalilur Rahman, met with the National Security Adviser of India, Mr Ajit Doval, and his team today in Delhi. They discussed work of CSC and key bilateral issues. Dr. Rahman invited Mr. Doval to visit Bangladesh at his convenience," read a statement by the Bangladesh High Commission.

Bangladesh had earlier formally requested India to extradite Hasina, New Delhi is obligated to ensure the return of the ousted PM and former home minister Asaduzzaman Khan Kamal.

However, the Ministry of External Affairs stated that "India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country. We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end."
AOC says we could be in the midst of a "massive" bubble driven by AI companies.

She also said that if a bubble were to pop, the federal government should not bail out AI companies.

She's among the first members of Congress to publicly raise concerns about the issue.

Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez is worried about an AI bubble.

The New York Democrat sounded the alarm about the issue at a House hearing on AI chatbots on Tuesday, wading into a debate that's been raging in the tech world for months.

Pointing to the fact that AI companies like Microsoft, Google, Amazon, and Meta have been driving a disproportionate amount of growth in the stock market and the economy, Ocasio-Cortez said that "the exposure of this industry and this investment, I fear, has reached broad levels, potentially, of the American economy."

"We're talking about a massive economic bubble," Ocasio-Cortez said. "Depending on the exposure of that bubble, we could see 2008-style threats to economic stability."

She also said that if such a bubble were to pop at some point in the future, there should be no federal bailout of AI companies.

"We should not entertain a bailout of these corporations, as healthcare is being denied to everyday Americans, as SNAP and food assistance is being denied to everyday Americans, precipitating some of the very mental crises that people are turning to AI chatbots to try to resolve in themselves," she said.

It comes after OpenAI CFO Sarah Friar suggested that a federal "backstop" may be needed to support the company as it embarks on an infrastructure buildout. She later walked back those comments, and OpenAI CEO Sam Altman said that the company isn't seeking any guarantees from the government.

Ocasio-Cortez is one of the first members of Congress to publicly weigh in on whether there's an AI bubble.

Fears of an AI bubble are generally driven by circular spending in the tech industry, along with questions about whether Big Tech's increasing levels of spending on AI infrastructure will ultimately be offset by eventual profits. Others have pushed back on the idea that we're in a bubble, pointing to high demand for AI products and compute. Wall Street will be looking for any signs of industry weakness when leading AI chipmaker Nvidia reports earnings on Wednesday after the closing bell.

Ocasio-Cortez said on Tuesday that the pressure to generate profit is driving companies to develop exploitative AI chatbots.

"People's deepest fears, secrets, emotional content, relationships can all be mined for this empty promise that we're getting from these companies to turn a profit," Ocasio-Cortez said.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Back-to-back poaching of netas by MahaYuti Alliance partners BJP and Shiv Sena has led to extreme bitterness between both parties, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis had to intervene for a truce.

Only Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde was present for the cabinet meeting yesterday and none of the ministers from his party attended. This caused speculation as to whether other Sena ministers had boycotted the cabinet with tacit blessings from their boss.

However, senior Sena ministers Dadaji Bhuse and Uday Samant clarified that the ministers had been delayed due to other meetings and Mumbai traffic, hence they could not attend the cabinet meeting.

A delegation of Shinde Sena ministers then met CM Fadnavis to raise the issue of BJP poaching leaders from Shiv Sena ahead of local municipal elections.

When they met Fadnavis, he told them that he would look into it, but the poaching had been started by Shiv Sena first, as it took a former BJP legislator into its fold.

When you have made the beginning, our party will naturally respond, Fadnavis told the delegation of Sena ministers.

In Kalyan-Dombivali, BJP has given entry to former Shinde Sena corporators and activists, weakening the party organisation in the parliamentary constituency of Dr Shrikant Shinde, son of DCM Eknath Shinde.

Similar activities are going on in the districts controlled by Sena ministers Dadaji Bhuse, Sanjay Shirsat, and Shambhu Raje Desai.

The issue was resolved after Fadnavis and Shinde told their respective parties not to poach anyone from Alliance partners.

Meanwhile, NCP (SP) spokesperson Clyde Crasto on Wednesday said the reported friction between Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and Shiv Sena ministers indicates that the BJP no longer needs Deputy CM Eknath Shinde.

Referring to reports that Shinde attended a cabinet meeting alone after his ministers allegedly stayed away, Crasto said the developments show Fadnavis has no respect for Shinde and that the ministers themselves have scant respect for the deputy CM.
Deputy chief minister Eknath Shinde flew to Delhi to meet union Home minister Amit Shah and raise a complaint about BJP state president Ravindra Chavan.

Senior Shinde Sena functionaries confirmed the Ekanth Shinde-Amit Shah meeting. They said Shinde expressed unhappiness over the conduct of state BJP chief Ravindra Chavan and the way he had initiated poaching of Sena functionaries and former Corporators, especially in the Sena bastions of Kalyan-Dombivali. Incidentally, Kalyan Dombivali area is part of Shinde's son, Dr Shrikant Shinde's Parliament constituency.

Maharashtra Deputy CM Eknath Shinde met Union Home Minister Amit Shah in Delhi today.



(Pic: Office of Eknath Shinde) pic.twitter.com/q0JpDcIAzL  ANI (@ANI) November 19, 2025

Shinde also told Shah that the recent friction between the Sena and BJP over poaching of functionaries could dent the Mahayuti in the local body polls, since it was vitiating the atmosphere.

After the victory in the Maharashtra assembly elections, the environment is extremely favourable for the alliance in the upcoming local self-government elections. However, some leaders are trying to spoil this environment, giving the Opposition an undue advantage. Unnecessary and misleading reports are appearing in the media, creating confusion among the public. This is also causing uncertainty among party workers and office-bearers. Such avoidable disruptions could potentially hinder the alliances winning momentum. This is what Shinde conveyed to Amit Shah, the functionary said.

Some leaders are working out of personal interest, and steps must be taken to ensure that such behaviour does not continue. Additionally, leaders within the alliance should avoid criticizing one another. While making public statements, everyone is expected to maintain restraint and adopt a stance of harmony and understanding. This was also told to the BJP top brass as they are the guardians of the Mahayuti, the functionary added.
The National Democratic Alliance (NDA) is likely to elect Nitish Kumar as its legislative party leader on Wednesday, paving the way for his swearing in as the chief minister of Bihar for the record 10th time.

Nitish is expected to meet Governor Arif Mohammad Khan later in the evening to formally stake a claim to form the government.

Meanwhile, intense lobbying is still underway among the NDA partners to finalise allocation of cabinet berths, and build a consensus over the post of Assembly Speaker ahead of the swearing-in. According to reports, both the BJP and the JD(U) have staked a claim for the post.

According to reports, the BJP is expected to secure two deputy chief minister posts and key portfolios in the new government; however, a final consensus has yet to be reached.

The two parties will meet separately on Wednesday before a joint meeting later in the afternoon. The meeting of JD(U) legislators will be held at 11 am at the residence of minister Shravan Kumar, while the BJP meeting will be held at the party's state headquarters in Patna.

Nitish Kumar will take oath as the chief minister for the 10th time on Thursday, November 20, marking a historic milestone in Bihar politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah, BJP national president J.P. Nadda, several Union ministers, chief ministers from multiple states, senior NDA leaders, and other dignitaries will be present at the grand function to be held at the Gandhi Maidan.

On Tuesday, Nitish Kumar visited the venue and personally reviewed the preparations. Key NDA leaders, including Samrat Chaudhary and Nitin Naveen, and senior officials accompanied him.

The NDA made a strong comeback to power after pulling off a landslide victory in the recent Bihar assembly elections. The BJP bagged 89 seats to become the single largest party, while the JD(U) secured 85 seats.

Among other constituents of the ruling alliance, LJP(RV) won 19 seats, HAM 5 and RLM 4.
Ahmed Mohiuddin Abdul Qadir Jilani, an accused in a terror conspiracy case, was attacked inside Gujarats Sabarmati Central Jail by three fellow inmates on Tuesday morning. Police have launched an investigation into the incident.

Inspector K.Y. Vyas said Jilani, a native of Telangana, suffered an injury to his eye and was shifted to the Civic Hospital for further treatment.

"On the morning of 18 November, Jilani was attacked by a fellow inmate, resulting in injury to his eye. He was given medical attention and subsequently sent to Civil Hospital. The primary investigation revealed that Anil Kumar, Shivam Sharma, and one more individual were involved in the attack. Further investigation is ongoing," Vyas told ANI.

A senior jail officer told Times of India that Sharma, who is lodged in jail for a theft offence, attacked Jilani to flaunt his patriotism.

Jilani, along with two others, was arrested by the Gujarat ATS last week for allegedly plotting terror attacks using ricin, a highly lethal toxin.

Reports said the trio were arrested after months of surveillance and intelligence inputs.
With the assembly elections round the corner, the Congress in Tamil Nadu is getting ready for a hard bargain over seat sharing with the DMK. Different factions in the Tamil Nadu Congress Committee has different views with regard to electoral alliance.

While one of the factions wants to accept the number of seats offered by the DMK and contest the elections, another is getting ready for tough negotiations, saying the DMK cannot win the elections alone. A third faction is of the opinion that the Congress will have to quit the alliance and go for a tie-up with actor-turned-politician Vijays Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK).

According to highly placed sources in the Congress, the factional feud, which has been part and parcel of the party, has touched a new high in the recent days, with a few of the leaders exploring ways to replace the state unit chief K. Selvaperunthagai. His detractors allege that he is "corrupt and very close to the DMK.

The Congress had been part of the DMK alliance since 2004, except for the 2014 general election, when both the DMK and the Congress were washed out in the state. Since 2004, the Congress has been part of the DMK alliance in every assembly election. In 2006, it contested in 48 seats and increased the number to 63 in 2011, with the 2G spectrum scam playing a huge role in the bargain. In 2016, this number went down to 41 and again to 25 in 2025.

At present, the Congress has 17 MLAs in the state assembly.

How can we be part of an alliance which is trying to crush us asked a senior leader on condition of anonymity. The number of seats we are contesting has to go up. Only if we contest in 60 to 70 seats, our vote share will increase. We want to be part of the government, and we will pitch for power sharing this time, the senior leader told THE WEEK.

The talks about power sharing, demand for more seats and quitting the DMK alliance gained strength very recently after Rahul Gandhis outreach to Vijay after the Karur tragedy. His phone call with Vijay for around five minutes has triggered the talk about Congresss attempts to quit the DMK alliance and align with TVK. Since then, many of the seniors in the party, who have not been feeling comfortable with the DMK leaders, have been speculating about an alliance with the TVK.

Adding to this was Karur MP Jothimanis answer to a question on Congresss alliance with Vijays TVK. While denying alliance talks with the TVK, Jothimani said, Vijay is not new to the Congress. He had met our leader Rahul Gandhi in 2010. Though she made clear that her party cannot reply to social media chatter, her comments have only given a new lease of hope for those who have been working to make the Congress walk out of the DMK alliance.

The Congress doesnt seem to have learnt a lesson despite its loss in Bihar. In Bihar, the alliance lost only because the Congress didnt understand the ground reality and wasnt willing to work as per the RJDs strategies. If they fail to understand it even now, their numbers will go down further. Only the DMK has been supporting the Congress and they got 10 MPs from Tamil Nadu, a senior DMK leader told THE WEEK.

However, the talks about Congress walking out of the alliance has always been a point of discussion. Before the 2021 election, there were attempts to float a third front consisting of Congress and Thol. Thirumavalavans VCK. In 2024, a few of the Congress leaders in Tamil Nadu even sent feelers to the AIADMK. And now Vijays TVK has given a new lease of life to those who have been opposing the DMK.
More than two weeks after the Red Fort blast, fresh details about how the Faridabad terror module worked have emerged. Delhi suicide bomber Dr Umar un Nabi was said to be 'reckless' while another member of the module, Dr Muzammil Shakeel, was described as 'calm and methodical', according to sources cited by a report.

Kashmir-based Muzammil, arrested for storing explosives and weapons at multiple rented locations in Faridabad, provided logistical support for the terror module, according to a report by News18. Foreign handlers Ukasha, Mansoor and Hashim reportedly guided Muzammil on procuring, transporting and hiding the weapons and explosives.

The Enforcement Directorate has arrested Jawad Ahmed Siddiqui, founder and chairman of Al-Falah University. He's being held under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA). ED teams raided over 25 locations linked to the Al-Falah Group in the Delhi-NCR region. pic.twitter.com/shGU9S6ACb  THE WEEK (@TheWeekLive) November 19, 2025

His calm, methodical approach made him the logistical backbone of the doctor module," the report quoted sources as saying.

Umar, on the other hand, wanted to carry out attacks quickly. However, Muzammil feared this would expose the module and insisted on playing the long game by setting up a support network and recruit more educated Muslims, said the report.

Muzammil reportedly believed that having doctors and engineers in the module would make it easier to move around and operate without drawing attention.

The report also suggested that his seniority at Al Falah University gave him easy access to junior doctors and interns and use hospital precincts to store explosives. Since he hailed from Jammu and Kashmir's Pulwama, frequent travel between home and Faridabad allowed him to personally transport the weapons and explosive materials.
Congress MP Shashi Tharoor's high praise for Prime Minister Narendra Modi has become the latest flashpoint between the grand old party and the BJP, with Congress leaders alleging that Tharoor does not know much about the country.

Tharoor had said Modi's recent Ramnath Goenka Lecture served as both an economic outlook and a cultural call to action, urging the nation to be restless for progress.

In a long social media post, Tharoor said he was glad to have been in the audience despite battling a bad cold and cough.

The Congress leader said the PM emphasised that India is "no longer just an 'emerging market' but an 'emerging model' for the world, noting its economic resilience. PM Modi said he'd been accused of being in 'election mode' all the time, but he was really in 'emotional mode' to redress the problems of the people".

A significant part of the speech was dedicated to overturning Macaulay's 200-year legacy of "slave mentality", Tharoor said.

"PM Modi appealed for a 10-year national mission to restore pride in India's heritage, languages, and knowledge systems. I wish he had also acknowledged how Ramnath Goenka had used English to raise a voice for Indian nationalism!"

Tharoor's praise for Modi did not go down well with a section of Congress leaders who sought to know why he is in the party.

Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit claimed that he thinks Tharoor does not know a lot about India. "If, according to you, someone is doing good for the country by going against the Congress's policies, then you should follow those policies... Why are you in Congress? Is it only because you are an MP?"

Calling Tharoor a "hypocrite," Dikshit said if the Congress MP thinks BJP or PM Modi's strategies are working better than the party, he should give an explanation regarding this.

Earlier, Congress leader Supriya Shrinate too had hit out at Tharoor, saying she did not find anything in PM Modi's speech that was worth appreciating. "I didn't see any reason to appreciate him. I don't know how he (Shashi Tharoor) found one...I found it to be a petty speech. He criticised Congress there too. PM thinks of Congress day and night. This is amazing," she said.

Reacting to the criticism of Congress leaders, BJP national spokesperson Shehzad Poonawalla said the party should be called 'Indira Nazi Congress' instead of Indian National Congress as "they demonstrate Indira's emergency mindset and Nazi dictatorial behaviour. If somebody praises the Prime Minister's speech, which is about larger issues, then a 'fatwa' is issued against that person by the Congress, which talks about democracy in the entire country, but there is no democracy within their party."

He claimed that the Congress issues a "fatwa" against people who place national interest above "pariwaric interest."
Saudi Arabia Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans visit to Washington was momentous in many ways, including the royal treatment accorded to him by US President Donald Trump, which featured an honour guard on horseback, a military band, and a flyover by US aircraft.

But the Crown Princes visit was marred by an embarrassing question from an ABC journalist, who questioned the Kingdoms and the Crown Princes role in the brutal murder of New York Times journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The US intelligence agencies have concluded that you orchestrated the brutal murder of a journalist, and families of 9/11 victims are outraged that you are here in the Oval Office. Why should Americans trust you? correspondent Mary Bruce asked the Crown Prince.

However, Trump angrily intervened, asking, "Who are you?" After learning she was from ABC News, he said, "Fake news, one of the worst stories in the business."

Trump defends Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman over the 2018 killing of journalist Jamal Khashoggi, insisting the kingdom's de facto ruler "knew nothing" about the murder.

Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen, but [Mohammed] knew nothing about it, said President Trump. There's no need to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that," referring to the Khashoggi affair.

However, the Crown Prince himself was unfazed by the questions and reacted calmly by saying that it was "a painful and grave mistake".

Regarding the journalist, it is truly painful to hear about anyone losing their life without a real purpose or in an unlawful way, and it was painful for us in Saudi Arabia.

He also commented on the 9/11 attacks, saying he felt for the families of the victims, but US intelligence investigations confirmed that Osama bin Laden used the Saudis to damage relations between our two countries.

He pointed out that Saudi Arabia conducted its own investigation at the time, did everything required of it, and implemented changes to ensure this would not happen again.

Netizens were impressed by the Crown Princes diplomacy. One user posted the entire interaction on X with the caption: The correspondence from ABC News reporter embarrassed Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, so she received a shocking response from Trump and another strong diplomatic response from His Royal Highness the Crown Prince, a response taught in the prestigious and powerful advanced schools of diplomacy.
While the grand reception accorded to Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Washington set tongues wagging, it was First Lady Melania Trumps stunning dress that caught the attention of many. The former model-turned-First Lady wore an Emerald Green dress at the dinner her husband hosted for the Crown Prince in Washington.

Melanias strapless emerald dress was designed by renowned Lebanese designer Ellie Saab. The stunning dress included ruching throughout the bodice and skirt, accentuating her already stunning figure. The dress had a modern edge to it, thanks to the subtle front slit. The dress is priced at $3,350.

Interestingly, many believe she chose the dress as a way to pay tribute to Saudi Arabias green flag, while others believed it had no particular message.

One asked whether it was a nod to regional colors or whether it might be routine color choices in fashion rather than a diplomatic message.

Melanias dress once again demonstrated that, on the world stage, fashion is just as prone to misinterpretation as diplomacy. Even the simplest color choices can stir up an international storm of commentary, one user wrote.

Anyhow, her appearance won over netizens, who lavished praise on her style. Interesting fabric treatment. Jersey with a coating that makes it look like leather, one user said.
Dubai-based Influencer Anunay Sood, whose body was found in a hotel room in Las Vegas, USA, may have died of a drug overdose, Las Vegas police say.

Initial reports of the cause of the influencer's death were unclear. However, the report by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department says that the narcotics may have played a role in his death, LA-based portal 8newsNow reported.

According to the report, Sood, 32, was accompanied by two women. One of them was identified as his fiancee Shivani Parihar. The group met a man at around 4 am on the morning of he incident to purchase what they believed to be cocaine.

The trio later returned to their room and snorted the white substance using a $100 bill before falling asleep.

The women woke up around 5 am and discovered that Sood was unresponsive.

Las vegas Police who arrived on the scene recovered a small bag containing a white substance. However, the officers have not yet confirmed the cause of death, stating that a toxicology result is necessary to determine whether the substances played a role in his death.

Sood's family and friends confirmed his death on Instagram last week and requested privacy and urged fans not to visit the family home.

The Clarck County Coroners office has listed the cause and manner of death as pending.

Anunay Sood was featured on the forbes Indias Top 100 Digital Stars list for three consecutive years. He had about 1.5 million followers on Instagram and regularly posted travel content. He also had a Dubai-based digital performance and marketing agency. Sood had already visited 46 countries and had a goal of travelling to all 195.
DUBAI/CAIRO (Reuters) -Oil giant Saudi Aramco said on Wednesday it had signed 17 preliminary deals with U.S. companies with a potential overall value of more than $30 billion, during a visit to Washington by the Saudi Crown Prince.

The projects span liquefied natural gas, financial services, advanced materials manufacturing and procurement of materials and services, it said in a statement.

Saudi and U.S. officials touted billions in new investments and growing financial ties between the two countries on Wednesday, coinciding with a visit to the White House by Saudi Arabia's de-facto leader Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

"We expect the multi-billion-dollar MoUs and agreements announced today to act as a springboard for further progress," and to strengthen Aramco's collaboration with American firms, Aramco's CEO Amin Nasser said in the statement.

The agreements build on previous memoranda of understanding that were signed during a tour of Gulf countries by U.S. President Donald Trump in May, when Aramco signed 34 preliminary deals potentially worth up to $90 billion.

Aramco, which wants to become a major LNG player, especially in the United States, said that Wednesday's MoUs and agreements include a tie-up with MidOcean Energy for a potential investment in the Lake Charles LNG project as well as a deal with Commonwealth LNG around a liquefaction project in Louisiana.

It also announced tie-ups with other energy companies including Baker Hughes and Halliburton, as well as financial giants Blackstone and JPMorgan.

It did not specify the value attached to the specific deals.

(Reporting by Federico Maccioni in Dubai, Yomna Ehab and Muhammed Al Gebaly in Cairo; Editing by Mark Heinrich and Emelia Sithole-Matarise)
Despite Pakistani leadership's repeated denial about Islamabad's involvement in terror activities in India on several global platforms, a PoK leader has admitted that state-sponsored terror groups are behind attacks across the country, "from the Red Fort to the forests of Kashmir".

Chaudhry Anwarul Haq, who was the former prime minister from Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, remarked that India is still counting the bodies of victims.

#BREAKING: Former Pakistan Occupied Kashmir PM Chaudhary Anwar Ul Haq admits Pakistan role in Delhi Red Fort bombing, says I had warned earlier that we will hit India at Red Fort and our brave men have done it. Haq was PM till two days ago. Says India unable to count dead bodies. pic.twitter.com/69bOQ2EsH0  Aditya Raj Kaul (@AdityaRajKaul) November 19, 2025

"I had said earlier that if you continue to drench Balochistan in blood, we will attack India from the Red Fort to the forests of Kashmir. By the grace of God, we have done it, and they still haven't been able to count all the bodies," he is heard saying in the viral video.

"A few days later, armed men entered Delhi and attacked, and perhaps they still havent counted all the bodies yet," he added.

He was referring to the recent blast near Red Fort metro station that killed 13 people and the April 22 terror attack on 26 tourists in Pahalgam.

After Pahalgam terror attack, India retaliated against Pakistani terror groups Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba as part of Operation Sindoor strikes in May, destroying the headquarters and launchpads of the outfits.

The NIA is still probing the November 10 blast in Delhi. Initial investigation has revealed that a terror module operating from Faridabad's Al Falah University was planning an attack across six cities on Decembers 6 with the help of Jaish handlers from Pakistan. December 6 is the anniversary of Babri Masjid demolition.

However, the arrest of key suspects foiled the larger plot while a member of the module, identified as Dr Umar un Nabi, fearing his arrest, decided to carry out a suicide attack in Delhi. The Hyundai i20 driven by Umar was seen entering Delhi from Faridabad and he assembled the explosives at a parking lot near the Red Fort. Following this, he slowly approached a signal near the metro station and detonated the explosives using a trigger fitted inside his shoe.

This comes days after Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi acknowledged that Pakistan government benefits from "fake" terror attacks in the province, impeding peace efforts in the restive region bordering Afghanistan, reported Tolo News.
The Trump administration is secretly working on a peace plan to end the Ukraine war, in consultation with Russia. The 28-point plan will deal with peace in Ukraine, security guarentees, security in Europe, and future U.S. relations with Russia and Ukraine, according to Axios.

Interestingly, one Russian official told Axios that he was optimistic about the plan.

Trumps envoy Witkoff is leading the drafting of the plan and is in close consultation with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitrieve. The report added that Dmitiev visited Miami during the last week of October and spent three days huddled with Witkoff and other members of Trumps team. "We feel the Russian position is really being heard," Dmitiev told Axios, while expressing optimism about the deals chances of success.

The Russian envoy added that the plan was to work on the principles that US President Donald Trump and his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, agreed to in Alaska. "It's actually a much broader framework, basically saying, 'How do we really bring, finally, lasting security to Europe, not just Ukraine,'" he said.

However, it wont have any resemblance to the UK-led efforts to devise a Gaza-style peace plan. He added that any such plan had no chances of success as it doesnt consider Russias position. Dmitiev, however, rushed to make Russias position clear, stating that all this was happening with the background of Russia definitely having additional successes on the battlefield."

However, it is unclear how Kyivs European partners will react to the deal.

Meanwhile, other efforts are going on along the sidelines. Trump has sent US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll, along with two four-star Army generals, to hold talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and other Ukrainian officials. The same team will also head to Russia, possibly to discuss the peace deal, according to the Wall Street Journal.

The report added that Trump decided to send Driscoll and senior military officers in the hope that Moscow might be more open to military-brokered negotiations.

Trump on Tuesday brought back the topic again, after mentioning how he was a little surprised at Putin. He added that he was he was still hopeful that he could stop the fighting. Ive actually stopped eight wars. I have another one to go with Putin. Im a little surprised at Putin. It has taken longer than I thought, Trump said.
U.S. President Donald Trump has once again claimed that the he stopped a war between India and Pakistan.

He made the statement while addressing a joint press conference in the Oval Office, along with Saudi Arabias Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, who visited the US for the first time in seven years.

Addressing reporters, he said, We stopped India and Pakistan. I could go through the list... I'm very proud. I stopped one that was almost ready to start again.

The president was likely referring to Operation Sindoor, which began on May 7, 2025, which was Indias response to the the pahalgam terrorist attack. India had launched missile strikes on terrorist infrastructure after a Pakistan-based terrorist group killed 26 civilians in Jammu and Kashmir.

The ceasefire deal between the two countries was announced first by Trump on social media on May 10. However, several countries were involved apart from the US, including the UK, UAE, Saudi Arabia, and Iran. The head of military operations of both countries spoke on the phone, and Indian and Pakistani foreign ministers confirmed the deal.

Indian Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar said that the two countries worked out an understanding on the stoppage of firing and military action. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh also rejected Trump's claim that he played a role in ending the conflict, calling it baseless.

Pakistan Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, however, credits Trump and a total of 36 countries in helping broker the truce. The country has continued to praise Trump for his claims that he brokered a ceasefire during the conflict.

Trump said that he stopped eight wars at the press conference. The US president responded to a question about India and Pakistan in the Oval Office, saying the countries were doing well."

"I've stopped, actually, eight wars.... Have another one to go with, Putin. I'm a little surprised at Putin. It's taken longer than I thought, but we stopped India and Pakistan. Wish I could go through the list. You know the list better than I do," he said.

"I'm very proud. And I stopped one that was almost ready to start again. You know, there's one that was ready to start, and they're doing very well. So, it all took place right here in the Oval Office, whether by telephone or whether by, they came in, many of these leaders have come in, and, you know, they signed their peace deals right here in the Oval Office," he added.

It's not the first time Trump has made himself the focus after the May 10 ceasefire deal. He has repeatedly claimed that he helped settle" the tensions between the two countries, while India consistently denied any such interventions.
Dhaka, Nov 19 (PTI) Bangladesh's High Court on Thursday ordered India's Adani Group not to proceed with its planned international arbitration in Singapore over the payment dispute with state-run Power Development Board (BPDB) until an investigation into its power supply deal is completed.

The court officials said a two-judge High Court bench issued the order that the arbitration must remain suspended until a committee it appointed to scrutinise the power purchase agreement and investigate potential irregularities submits the findings.

The order came in sequence of a lawyer's petition, seeking the High Court's intervention for review of scrapping BPDBs agreement with Adani, calling it a "one-sided" deal signed during deposed prime minister Sheikh Hasinas regime.

The petition said Adanis power price is much higher than other regional sources, as electricity from Indian state-owned companies costs 5.5 taka per unit against 8.5 taka per unit by other Indian private companies, and from Nepal, it is 8 taka per unit, while power from Adani costs over 14 taka per unit.

The High Court order, however, came as the Bangladesh Power Development Board (BPDB) and Adani are still in negotiations over payment disagreements.

Bangladesh's interim government of Professor Muhammad Yunus, earlier, however, accused Adani of breaching the power purchase agreement by withholding tax benefits that the Godda plant got from India.

Bangladesh paid Adani a tariff of 14.87 taka (USD 0.122) per unit during the fiscal year to June 30, 2024, an amount higher than the average of 9.57 taka per unit for power supplied by other Indian companies.

Adani Power, earlier this month, said it has opted for an international arbitration process to resolve disputes over Bangladesh's power supply payments, as it is at loggerheads with BPDB over pending payments for the electricity it supplies as part of the contract signed in 2017.

"There are disagreements in the way certain cost elements are calculated and billed. Hence, both partners have agreed to invoke the dispute resolution process and are confident of a quick, smooth and mutually beneficial resolution," an Adani Group spokesperson said in a statement at that time.

Bangladesh's energy adviser, effectively a minister, Muhammad Fouzul Kabir Khan, also said that negotiations are still underway, but hinted both sides could move toward international arbitration if needed.

But the move prompted the petitioner, Supreme Court lawyer Abdul Kaiyum, to seek a High Court injunction to prevent the energy giant from proceeding with the arbitration.

"If Adani starts arbitration proceedings in Singapore over its dues before the investigation report is released, it will undermine the significance of the investigation. Thats why we sought the injunction. There have been many irregularities in this agreement," he said.

Adani Power supplies electricity from its 1,600 megawatt coal-fired Godda power plant in eastern India that meets nearly a tenth of Bangladesh's power demands.
Lusaka (Zambia), Nov 19 (AP) Chinese Premier Li Qiang will start a two-day visit to the southern African nation of Zambia on Wednesday that will focus on the USD 1.4 billion refurbishment of a Cold War-era railway line to further improve China's access to critical minerals.

China is heavily invested in mining in Zambia, which is one of the world's top producers of copper that is integral to the production of electronic devices.

Li, who holds China's No 2 leadership position after President Xi Jinping, will meet with Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema on Thursday, Hichilema said in a statement. The two countries will sign documents to start the upgrade of the Tazara railway line linking Zambia's mines to the Tanzanian port of Dar es Salaam on Africa's east coast.

China, Zambia and Tanzania signed a deal in September giving the state-owned China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation concessions to carry out the upgrade.

The Tazara rail line was built by the three countries in the 1970s to avoid relying on transport links through what was then Rhodesia and South Africa, which were under white minority governments.

The railway has taken on renewed significance for China after a United States-backed project to build a railway from Zambia and neighbouring Congo out to Africa's Atlantic Ocean coast in Angola gained momentum last year when then-US President Joe Biden visited part of that project.

The two railways, one going west and the other going east, represent competition between the US and China for access to the critical minerals that are also key for renewable energy technology, electric car batteries and defence systems.

China is the dominant player in mining in Zambia and Congo and leads the global race for critical minerals. President Donald Trump has moved to increase US supply chains in a bid to counter its economic rival.

Li is visiting Zambia on the way to South Africa for this weekend's Group of 20 summit in Johannesburg, the first to be held in Africa. The US is boycotting the summit over Trump's criticism of the South African government. (AP) NPK

NPK
New Delhi, Nov 19 (PTI) Fourteen young diplomats from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are participating in a week-long BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme here, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said on Wednesday.

The initiative will expose them to new approaches to look at geopolitical and geoeconomic landscapes as well as priority areas of cooperation in the region, the ministry said in a statement.

Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi at the 6th BIMSTEC Summit in Bangkok, the programme aims to strengthen institutional and capacity-building efforts in the region, in the spirit of India's 'Neighbourhood First' and 'Act East' policies, the MEA said.

The 'Annual BIMSTEC Young Diplomats Interaction Programme' was inaugurated at the Sushma Swaraj Institute of Foreign Service (SSIFS) in New Delhi, it said.

The initiative is part of India's efforts to strengthen cooperation among young diplomats from the Bay of Bengal region, it said.

"Fourteen young diplomats from Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, Nepal, and Sri Lanka are participating in this week-long programme. It will expose them to new approaches to look at geopolitical and geoeconomic landscapes as also priority areas of cooperation in the region," it said.
Bloom Energy Corporation (NYSE:BE  Get Free Report) traded down 2.1% during trading on Tuesday following insider selling activity. The stock traded as low as $103.00 and last traded at $104.8520. 13,016,714 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 40% from the average session volume of 9,277,092 shares. The stock had previously closed at $107.11.

Specifically, insider Satish Chitoori sold 2,085 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $104.08, for a total value of $217,006.80. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 229,880 shares in the company, valued at $23,925,910.40. The trade was a 0.90% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. Also, insider Aman Joshi sold 4,543 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, November 14th. The shares were sold at an average price of $109.13, for a total transaction of $495,777.59. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 219,818 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $23,988,738.34. The trade was a 2.02% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. In related news, insider Shawn Marie Soderberg sold 1,583 shares of Bloom Energy stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $105.97, for a total transaction of $167,750.51. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider directly owned 221,633 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $23,486,449.01. The trade was a 0.71% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research firms have recently commented on BE. Jefferies Financial Group restated an underperform rating and issued a $53.00 price target on shares of Bloom Energy in a report on Friday, October 31st. Oppenheimer reissued a market perform rating on shares of Bloom Energy in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. UBS Group raised their target price on shares of Bloom Energy to $115.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Mizuho set a $89.00 price target on shares of Bloom Energy in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th. Finally, Royal Bank Of Canada reiterated an outperform rating and set a $123.00 target price on shares of Bloom Energy in a report on Monday, October 20th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have assigned a Buy rating, eleven have issued a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the company presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $95.65.

Bloom Energy Trading Down 2.1%

The companys 50 day simple moving average is $99.46 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $54.22. The company has a market capitalization of $24.80 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 621.61, a P/E/G ratio of 63.05 and a beta of 3.43. The company has a quick ratio of 2.88, a current ratio of 4.40 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.98.

Bloom Energy (NYSE:BE  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $0.15 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.08 by $0.07. Bloom Energy had a return on equity of 8.74% and a net margin of 0.84%.The company had revenue of $508.69 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $425.18 million. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted ($0.01) earnings per share. Bloom Energys revenue for the quarter was up 57.1% on a year-over-year basis. As a group, research analysts anticipate that Bloom Energy Corporation will post -0.23 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Bloom Energy

Several institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of BE. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in Bloom Energy by 6.3% during the 3rd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 20,807,920 shares of the companys stock worth $1,759,726,000 after purchasing an additional 1,240,819 shares during the period. Graticule Asia Macro Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Bloom Energy during the third quarter worth approximately $402,494,000. Geode Capital Management LLC raised its holdings in Bloom Energy by 2.1% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 4,756,516 shares of the companys stock valued at $113,790,000 after acquiring an additional 95,990 shares in the last quarter. Public Investment Fund lifted its stake in Bloom Energy by 16.8% in the first quarter. Public Investment Fund now owns 3,803,770 shares of the companys stock worth $74,782,000 after acquiring an additional 546,372 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. grew its holdings in Bloom Energy by 29.5% during the 1st quarter. Fuller & Thaler Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,611,925 shares of the companys stock worth $71,010,000 after acquiring an additional 821,814 shares in the last quarter. 77.04% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Bloom Energy

(Get Free Report)

Bloom Energy Corporation designs, manufactures, sells, and installs solid-oxide fuel cell systems for on-site power generation in the United States and internationally. The company offers Bloom Energy Server, a solid oxide technology that converts fuel, such as natural gas, biogas, hydrogen, or a blend of these fuels into electricity through an electrochemical process without combustion.

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Hippo (NYSE:HIPO  Get Free Report) and Sompo (OTCMKTS:SMPNY  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better business? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their profitability, valuation, analyst recommendations, risk, earnings, dividends and institutional ownership.

Earnings and Valuation

This table compares Hippo and Sompos gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Hippo $372.10 million 2.18 -$40.50 million $3.62 8.85 Sompo $35.81 billion 0.76 $2.79 billion $1.49 9.84

Analyst Recommendations

Sompo has higher revenue and earnings than Hippo. Hippo is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Sompo, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This is a breakdown of recent ratings and recommmendations for Hippo and Sompo, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Hippo 1 1 4 1 2.71 Sompo 0 0 0 0 0.00

Hippo currently has a consensus target price of $35.50, suggesting a potential upside of 10.76%. Given Hippos stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe Hippo is more favorable than Sompo.

Profitability

This table compares Hippo and Sompos net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Hippo 21.30% -5.89% -1.28% Sompo 8.14% 13.04% 2.83%

Insider and Institutional Ownership

43.0% of Hippo shares are held by institutional investors. 10.8% of Hippo shares are held by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

Risk & Volatility

Hippo has a beta of 1.56, meaning that its share price is 56% more volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Sompo has a beta of 0.39, meaning that its share price is 61% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

Hippo beats Sompo on 10 of the 15 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Hippo

(Get Free Report)

Hippo Holdings Inc. provides property and casualty insurance products to individuals and business customers primarily in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Services, Insurance-as-a-Service, and Hippo Home Insurance Program. Its insurance products include homeowners' insurance against risks of fire, wind, and theft, as well as other personal lines policies from third party carriers; and personal and commercial, as well as home, auto, cyber, small business, life, specialty lines, and other insurance products. The company distributes insurance products and services through its technology platform and website, as well as operates licensed insurance agencies. Hippo Holdings Inc. is headquartered in Palo Alto, California.

About Sompo

(Get Free Report)

Sompo Holdings, Inc. provides property and casualty (P&C) insurance services in Japan and internationally. The company operates through Domestic P&C Insurance Business, Overseas Insurance Business, Domestic Life Insurance Business, and Nursing Care & Seniors Business segments. It offers various P&C insurance products, including automobile, fire, personal accident, and marine, as well as security, risk management, assistance, and warranty services; and life insurance products. The company also provides nursing care and seniors services; and customer security, health, and wellbeing support services. In addition, it offers asset management services; home remodeling services; and health support services comprising health guidance and employee assistance programs. The company was formerly known as Sompo Japan Nipponkoa Holdings, Inc. and changed its name to Sompo Holdings, Inc. in October 2016. The company was incorporated in 2010 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan.

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Arvind Limited is supporting Indias first industrial-scale cotton-stalk torrefaction project.

One of Indias leading textile-to-retail conglomerates, Arvind is partnering with Peak Sustainability Ventures, a Mumbai-based global climate investment firm, to build a large-scale cotton stalk torrefaction plant in Gujarat, with a capacity of 40,000-plus tonnes per year.

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With this pant, the Gap supplier aims to to accelerate its decarbonization goals and promote torrefaction at scale in the region. The project will convert cotton stalk into torrefied biomass, a cleaner, drop-in substitute for coal in boilers at Arvinds manufacturing operations, reducing fossil fuel usage.

The industrial-scale project, which is the first of its kind in India for cotton stalk, is intended to serve as an economically viable, scalable blueprint for industrial companies to transition away from coal towards biomass-based alternatives.

It also addresses the over 500 million tonnes of agriculture waste that Peak Sustainability Ventures says is produced in India every year. Corn stalk is the woody biomass that remains after cotton is extracted. Though it is often burned or left in the field, Arvind is currently using it for thermal energy at its manufacturing units.

However, fuel characteristics of the stalk are substantially improved through torrefaction. The thermal process enhances the energy density, stability and handling properties of biomass and increases the calorific value by up to 20 percent, resulting in biomass that closely mimics coal.

The torrefied biomass produced will be used to power Arvinds industrial boilers, enabling the company to replace at least 20 percent of its coal-based thermal energy needs. In the future, both parties may explore producing biochar from cotton stalks to provide to farmers, which can in turn improve soil health and crop yield and promote regenerative agricultural practices.

Through this collaboration, we hope to provide validation to the broader industry that waste-to-energy solutions can be economical, circular, and importantly, catalytic in accelerating Indias transition away from fossil fuels, said Samir Shah, Peak Sustainability Ventures managing partner.

Arvind received a grant from Apparel Impact Institutes (Aii) Climate Solutions Portfolio Grant program for the project, which helps accelerate Arvinds transition to become a 100 percent coal-free company by 2030. Additionally, it means Arvinds global customers can reduce their Scope 3 emissions through decarbonization of their supply chain.
Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE:ACHR  Get Free Report) CFO Priya Gupta sold 5,479 shares of Archer Aviation stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 17th. The shares were sold at an average price of $7.49, for a total value of $41,037.71. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief financial officer owned 161,523 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $1,209,807.27. This represents a 3.28% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website.

Archer Aviation Price Performance

Shares of ACHR stock traded up $0.17 during trading hours on Tuesday, hitting $7.59. 57,693,906 shares of the companys stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 69,731,488. Archer Aviation Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $4.33 and a fifty-two week high of $14.62. The firm has a market cap of $4.94 billion, a P/E ratio of -6.02 and a beta of 3.07. The company has a quick ratio of 18.19, a current ratio of 18.19 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.05. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $10.23 and a two-hundred day moving average of $10.23.

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Archer Aviation (NYSE:ACHR  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($0.20) EPS for the quarter, hitting the consensus estimate of ($0.20). Sell-side analysts forecast that Archer Aviation Inc. will post -1.32 EPS for the current year.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of research analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Needham & Company LLC decreased their price target on shares of Archer Aviation from $13.00 to $10.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Canaccord Genuity Group reduced their target price on Archer Aviation from $13.00 to $12.00 and set a buy rating for the company in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. Cantor Fitzgerald set a $13.00 price target on Archer Aviation in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of Archer Aviation in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, HC Wainwright reissued a buy rating and issued a $18.00 price objective on shares of Archer Aviation in a research note on Tuesday, August 12th. Seven analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, one has assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $12.57.

Read Our Latest Stock Report on ACHR

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Archer Aviation

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of the business. AlphaQuest LLC grew its holdings in shares of Archer Aviation by 1,181.6% during the 2nd quarter. AlphaQuest LLC now owns 2,576 shares of the companys stock worth $28,000 after purchasing an additional 2,375 shares during the period. GAMMA Investing LLC lifted its position in Archer Aviation by 219.5% in the second quarter. GAMMA Investing LLC now owns 2,946 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,000 after buying an additional 2,024 shares during the last quarter. Johnson Investment Counsel Inc. purchased a new position in Archer Aviation during the third quarter worth about $29,000. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust increased its position in shares of Archer Aviation by 45.9% during the third quarter. Bank of Jackson Hole Trust now owns 3,136 shares of the companys stock valued at $30,000 after acquiring an additional 986 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geneos Wealth Management Inc. increased its position in shares of Archer Aviation by 105.3% during the second quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 3,318 shares of the companys stock valued at $36,000 after acquiring an additional 1,702 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 59.34% of the companys stock.

Archer Aviation Company Profile

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Archer Aviation Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in designs, develops, and operates electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft for use in urban air mobility. The company was formerly known as Atlas Crest Investment Corp. and changed its name to Archer Aviation Inc The company is headquartered in San Jose, California.

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Wall Street Zen cut shares of Knife River (NYSE:KNF  Free Report) from a hold rating to a sell rating in a report issued on Sunday morning.

Other research analysts have also issued reports about the stock. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Knife River in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Knife River from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $75.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Royal Bank Of Canada dropped their target price on shares of Knife River from $115.00 to $105.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a research report on Thursday, November 6th. UBS Group upgraded Knife River to an overweight rating in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Oppenheimer reduced their target price on Knife River from $120.00 to $100.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 1st. Six analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $99.00.

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Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on Knife River

Knife River Stock Performance

Shares of Knife River stock opened at $68.19 on Friday. Knife River has a 52 week low of $58.72 and a 52 week high of $108.83. The company has a quick ratio of 1.47, a current ratio of 2.39 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.73. The business has a 50 day moving average price of $69.81 and a 200-day moving average price of $80.77. The company has a market cap of $3.86 billion, a PE ratio of 26.13, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.37 and a beta of 0.53.

Knife River (NYSE:KNF  Get Free Report) last announced its earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $2.52 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $2.45 by $0.07. The company had revenue of $1.20 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.22 billion. Knife River had a return on equity of 9.97% and a net margin of 4.87%. Knife River has set its FY 2025 guidance at EPS. Equities analysts anticipate that Knife River will post 4.11 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Knife River

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of KNF. Hantz Financial Services Inc. lifted its stake in Knife River by 141.8% in the third quarter. Hantz Financial Services Inc. now owns 341 shares of the companys stock valued at $26,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group raised its stake in shares of Knife River by 31,200.0% in the first quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 313 shares of the companys stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 312 shares during the period. Migdal Insurance & Financial Holdings Ltd. purchased a new position in shares of Knife River during the 1st quarter valued at $35,000. Country Trust Bank purchased a new position in shares of Knife River during the 2nd quarter valued at $40,000. Finally, Quent Capital LLC bought a new position in shares of Knife River during the 3rd quarter worth $47,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 80.11% of the companys stock.

About Knife River

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Knife River Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, provides aggregates- led construction materials and contracting services in the United States. It operates through Pacific, Northwest, Mountain, Central, and Energy Services segments. The company mines, processes, and sells construction aggregates, including crushed stone and sand, and gravel; and produces and sells asphalt and ready-mix concrete.

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Boyd Group Services Inc. (TSE:BYD  Free Report)  Equities research analysts at Raymond James Financial decreased their FY2025 EPS estimates for shares of Boyd Group Services in a research note issued on Thursday, November 13th. Raymond James Financial analyst S. Hansen now anticipates that the company will earn $2.69 per share for the year, down from their previous forecast of $2.79. The consensus estimate for Boyd Group Services current full-year earnings is $7.15 per share. Raymond James Financial also issued estimates for Boyd Group Services Q4 2025 earnings at $0.98 EPS, FY2026 earnings at $6.17 EPS and FY2027 earnings at $7.22 EPS.

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Boyd Group Services (TSE:BYD  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 12th. The company reported C$0.62 EPS for the quarter. Boyd Group Services had a net margin of 1.35% and a return on equity of 4.93%. The company had revenue of C$1.10 billion during the quarter.

BYD has been the subject of a number of other reports. CIBC boosted their price objective on Boyd Group Services from C$270.00 to C$280.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Royal Bank Of Canada increased their price objective on shares of Boyd Group Services from C$272.00 to C$291.00 in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Cormark raised shares of Boyd Group Services from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 30th. ATB Capital increased their target price on Boyd Group Services from C$275.00 to C$280.00 in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Finally, National Bankshares raised their price target on Boyd Group Services from C$245.00 to C$250.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research note on Thursday, August 14th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have given a Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, Boyd Group Services presently has a consensus rating of Buy and a consensus target price of C$265.60.

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Boyd Group Services Trading Down 1.5%

BYD opened at C$213.73 on Monday. Boyd Group Services has a 12 month low of C$186.10 and a 12 month high of C$258.17. The stock has a market capitalization of C$5.95 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 288.82, a PEG ratio of -56.72 and a beta of 0.32. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 150.94, a current ratio of 0.70 and a quick ratio of 0.30. The business has a fifty day moving average price of C$223.61 and a 200 day moving average price of C$214.45.

Boyd Group Services Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 29th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were paid a dividend of $0.153 per share. This represents a $0.61 annualized dividend and a yield of 0.3%. Boyd Group Servicess dividend payout ratio is presently 58.82%.

About Boyd Group Services

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Boyd Group Services Inc is a personal services company that provides auto body and auto glass repair services at its portfolio of facilities located across the United States and Canada. The company operates in Canada primarily under the Boyd Autobody and Glass brand name, while its most notable U.S. brand is Gerber Collision and Glass.

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Edison International (NYSE:EIX  Free Report)  Stock analysts at Zacks Research issued their FY2025 EPS estimates for Edison International in a research report issued to clients and investors on Thursday, November 13th. Zacks Research analyst Team anticipates that the utilities provider will earn $6.10 per share for the year. Zacks Research has a Strong-Buy rating on the stock. The consensus estimate for Edison Internationals current full-year earnings is $4.95 per share. Zacks Research also issued estimates for Edison Internationals Q4 2025 earnings at $1.42 EPS, Q1 2026 earnings at $1.29 EPS, Q2 2026 earnings at $0.62 EPS, Q3 2026 earnings at $1.79 EPS, Q4 2026 earnings at $2.54 EPS, Q2 2027 earnings at $0.73 EPS and Q3 2027 earnings at $1.98 EPS.

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Edison International (NYSE:EIX  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The utilities provider reported $2.34 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $2.16 by $0.18. The company had revenue of $5.75 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $5.31 billion. Edison International had a return on equity of 13.62% and a net margin of 17.24%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 10.6% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $1.51 EPS. Edison International has set its FY 2025 guidance at 5.950-6.200 EPS.

A number of other research firms also recently commented on EIX. Wall Street Zen downgraded Edison International from a buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Sunday, November 9th. Cowen assumed coverage on shares of Edison International in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. They issued a buy rating for the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. raised their price objective on shares of Edison International from $67.00 to $68.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, September 25th. Morgan Stanley boosted their price objective on shares of Edison International from $60.00 to $66.00 and gave the stock an underweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Barclays dropped their target price on shares of Edison International from $69.00 to $68.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eight have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the company has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $64.30.

View Our Latest Analysis on Edison International

Edison International Stock Up 1.2%

Edison International stock opened at $58.46 on Monday. The stocks 50 day moving average price is $56.00 and its 200 day moving average price is $54.48. Edison International has a 1-year low of $47.73 and a 1-year high of $88.64. The company has a market cap of $22.50 billion, a PE ratio of 7.64, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.83 and a beta of 0.85. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.95, a current ratio of 0.82 and a quick ratio of 0.81.

Edison International Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, October 7th were given a dividend of $0.8275 per share. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, October 7th. This represents a $3.31 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 5.7%. Edison Internationals payout ratio is presently 43.27%.

Insider Transactions at Edison International

In other Edison International news, Director Peter J. Taylor sold 1,800 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, October 30th. The shares were sold at an average price of $55.27, for a total value of $99,486.00. Following the sale, the director owned 35,212 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,946,167.24. This represents a 4.86% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Insiders own 1.20% of the companys stock.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Institutional investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. San Luis Wealth Advisors LLC lifted its stake in Edison International by 26.1% in the 3rd quarter. San Luis Wealth Advisors LLC now owns 14,226 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $786,000 after buying an additional 2,945 shares in the last quarter. Hancock Whitney Corp acquired a new position in shares of Edison International in the third quarter worth $752,000. Abel Hall LLC acquired a new position in shares of Edison International in the third quarter worth $582,000. Morningstar Investment Management LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Edison International in the third quarter valued at $3,538,000. Finally, Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC boosted its stake in shares of Edison International by 11.8% during the third quarter. Kestra Private Wealth Services LLC now owns 15,247 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $843,000 after acquiring an additional 1,610 shares during the last quarter. 88.95% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

About Edison International

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Edison International, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation and distribution of electric power. The company supplies and delivers electricity to approximately 50,000 square mile area of southern California to residential, commercial, industrial, public authorities, agricultural, and other sectors.

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Novartis AG (NYSE:NVS  Get Free Report) has earned a consensus rating of Hold from the thirteen analysts that are currently covering the stock, Marketbeat.com reports. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a sell recommendation, six have issued a hold recommendation, three have given a buy recommendation and one has given a strong buy recommendation to the company. The average 12 month price target among analysts that have updated their coverage on the stock in the last year is $122.3333.

Several research analysts have recently weighed in on NVS shares. The Goldman Sachs Group restated a sell rating and set a $118.00 price objective (down from $119.00) on shares of Novartis in a research note on Friday, September 12th. HC Wainwright cut Novartis to a neutral rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Cfra Research raised Novartis to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 29th. Cowen reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Novartis in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Cfra set a $126.00 target price on Novartis and gave the stock a hold rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 29th.

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Hedge Funds Weigh In On Novartis

Novartis Trading Down 2.7%

Hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. WPG Advisers LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Novartis during the 1st quarter worth about $25,000. GFG Capital LLC acquired a new position in Novartis in the 2nd quarter valued at about $26,000. Legacy Investment Solutions LLC bought a new position in Novartis in the 2nd quarter valued at about $30,000. Barrett & Company Inc. acquired a new stake in Novartis during the second quarter worth approximately $31,000. Finally, Valley Wealth Managers Inc. acquired a new stake in Novartis during the third quarter worth approximately $31,000. 13.12% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

NYSE NVS opened at $128.01 on Friday. Novartis has a 12 month low of $96.06 and a 12 month high of $134.00. The company has a current ratio of 0.88, a quick ratio of 0.62 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50. The stock has a 50 day moving average of $127.62 and a 200-day moving average of $121.67. The company has a market cap of $270.41 billion, a PE ratio of 17.49, a PEG ratio of 1.93 and a beta of 0.60.

Novartis (NYSE:NVS  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, October 28th. The company reported $2.25 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.26 by ($0.01). The firm had revenue of $13.91 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.70 billion. Novartis had a return on equity of 41.21% and a net margin of 26.49%.Novartiss quarterly revenue was up 8.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm posted $2.06 earnings per share. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Novartis will post 8.45 EPS for the current fiscal year.

About Novartis

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Novartis AG engages in the research, development, manufacture, and marketing of healthcare products in Switzerland and internationally. The company offers prescription medicines for patients and physicians. It focuses on therapeutic areas, such as cardiovascular, renal and metabolic, immunology, neuroscience, and oncology, as well as ophthalmology and hematology.

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Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. bought a new stake in H&R Block, Inc. (NYSE:HRB  Free Report) during the 2nd quarter, Holdings Channel.com reports. The firm bought 16,195 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $889,000.

A number of other large investors have also recently bought and sold shares of HRB. Signaturefd LLC grew its stake in shares of H&R Block by 40.0% during the 2nd quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 651 shares of the companys stock worth $36,000 after acquiring an additional 186 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC boosted its holdings in H&R Block by 1.3% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 15,159 shares of the companys stock worth $832,000 after purchasing an additional 197 shares during the last quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System boosted its holdings in H&R Block by 0.5% during the second quarter. Louisiana State Employees Retirement System now owns 37,700 shares of the companys stock worth $2,069,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares during the last quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC grew its position in H&R Block by 30.0% in the second quarter. Bogart Wealth LLC now owns 866 shares of the companys stock valued at $48,000 after purchasing an additional 200 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Brooklyn Investment Group increased its stake in H&R Block by 72.1% in the 1st quarter. Brooklyn Investment Group now owns 513 shares of the companys stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 215 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.14% of the companys stock.

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Insider Activity

In related news, CEO Jeffrey J. Jones II sold 176,449 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, November 12th. The shares were sold at an average price of $46.46, for a total value of $8,197,820.54. Following the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 906,313 shares in the company, valued at approximately $42,107,301.98. This represents a 16.30% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through the SEC website. Corporate insiders own 1.40% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts have recently commented on HRB shares. The Goldman Sachs Group reduced their price objective on shares of H&R Block from $54.00 to $48.00 and set a sell rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c) rating on shares of H&R Block in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Barrington Research reissued an outperform rating and set a $62.00 price target on shares of H&R Block in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered H&R Block from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, August 13th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have assigned a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, H&R Block currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $55.00.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Report on H&R Block

H&R Block Price Performance

Shares of NYSE HRB opened at $44.48 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 0.90, a current ratio of 0.90 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 12.86. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $50.09 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $53.31. The company has a market cap of $5.62 billion, a PE ratio of 9.95, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.82 and a beta of 0.32. H&R Block, Inc. has a twelve month low of $43.11 and a twelve month high of $64.62.

H&R Block (NYSE:HRB  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($1.20) EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of ($1.40) by $0.20. The company had revenue of $203.55 million during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $200.13 million. H&R Block had a negative return on equity of 191.38% and a net margin of 16.11%.The firms revenue for the quarter was up 5.0% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted ($1.17) EPS. H&R Block has set its FY 2026 guidance at 4.850-5.000 EPS. On average, analysts predict that H&R Block, Inc. will post 5.25 EPS for the current year.

H&R Block Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, January 6th. Stockholders of record on Thursday, December 4th will be given a $0.42 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, December 4th. This represents a $1.68 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 3.8%. H&R Blocks dividend payout ratio is presently 37.75%.

H&R Block Profile

(Free Report)

H&R Block, Inc engages in the provision of tax return preparation solutions, financial products and small business solutions. The company was founded by Henry W. Bloch and Richard A. Bloch on January 25, 1955, and is headquartered in Kansas City, MO.

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Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYS grew its stake in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF (NYSEARCA:EWC  Free Report) by 32.0% during the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 111,350 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 27,000 shares during the period. Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Public School Empls Retrmt SYSs holdings in iShares MSCI Canada ETF were worth $5,144,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the company. Banque Cantonale Vaudoise acquired a new position in shares of iShares MSCI Canada ETF in the 1st quarter valued at $49,000. MAI Capital Management raised its stake in iShares MSCI Canada ETF by 266.4% during the 1st quarter. MAI Capital Management now owns 2,228 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $91,000 after acquiring an additional 1,620 shares in the last quarter. CWM LLC lifted its position in iShares MSCI Canada ETF by 27.1% in the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 2,151 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $99,000 after acquiring an additional 459 shares during the last quarter. EP Wealth Advisors LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI Canada ETF in the first quarter valued at $129,000. Finally, Sunpointe LLC acquired a new position in iShares MSCI Canada ETF in the first quarter valued at $200,000.

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iShares MSCI Canada ETF Stock Performance

Shares of EWC stock opened at $50.53 on Wednesday. The stocks 50-day moving average is $50.50 and its two-hundred day moving average is $47.65. iShares MSCI Canada ETF has a 1 year low of $36.70 and a 1 year high of $51.81. The firm has a market cap of $3.38 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 19.77 and a beta of 0.94.

About iShares MSCI Canada ETF

iShares MSCI Canada ETF (the Fund), formerly iShares MSCI Canada Index Fund, is an exchange-traded fund (ETF). The Fund seeks to provide investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, before fees and expenses, of publicly traded securities in the Canadian market, as measured by the MSCI Canada Index (the Index).

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Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. acquired a new stake in Envista Holdings Corporation (NYSE:NVST  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The fund acquired 41,209 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $805,000.

A number of other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of the company. Lightrock Netherlands B.V. grew its stake in shares of Envista by 29.0% in the second quarter. Lightrock Netherlands B.V. now owns 599,307 shares of the companys stock worth $11,710,000 after purchasing an additional 134,875 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its position in shares of Envista by 15.0% in the 2nd quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 230,759 shares of the companys stock worth $4,509,000 after buying an additional 30,051 shares during the last quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D increased its stake in shares of Envista by 23.4% during the second quarter. State of New Jersey Common Pension Fund D now owns 111,644 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,182,000 after buying an additional 21,204 shares during the period. AlphaQuest LLC raised its holdings in shares of Envista by 60.9% during the second quarter. AlphaQuest LLC now owns 42,717 shares of the companys stock valued at $835,000 after acquiring an additional 16,162 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Allianz Asset Management GmbH lifted its stake in Envista by 10.2% in the second quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 469,085 shares of the companys stock worth $9,166,000 after acquiring an additional 43,600 shares during the period.

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Envista Stock Up 0.2%

NVST stock opened at $19.15 on Wednesday. The business has a 50 day moving average of $20.23 and a 200 day moving average of $19.76. The firm has a market cap of $3.15 billion, a PE ratio of 59.84, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.09 and a beta of 1.05. Envista Holdings Corporation has a twelve month low of $14.22 and a twelve month high of $22.68. The company has a quick ratio of 2.08, a current ratio of 2.44 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.46.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Envista ( NYSE:NVST Get Free Report ) last released its earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.32 EPS for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.27 by $0.05. The firm had revenue of $669.90 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $639.49 million. Envista had a return on equity of 4.84% and a net margin of 2.11%.The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $0.12 earnings per share. On average, research analysts forecast that Envista Holdings Corporation will post 1 EPS for the current fiscal year.

A number of research analysts have issued reports on the stock. Piper Sandler boosted their price objective on shares of Envista from $17.00 to $19.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Friday, August 1st. Evercore ISI reissued an outperform rating on shares of Envista in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Morgan Stanley raised their price objective on shares of Envista from $16.00 to $17.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, August 1st. Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d) rating on shares of Envista in a report on Monday. Finally, Zacks Research lowered Envista from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, September 15th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have given a Buy rating, eight have assigned a Hold rating and two have issued a Sell rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $21.33.

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Envista Company Profile

(Free Report)

Envista Holdings Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, develops, manufactures, markets, and sells dental products in the United States, China, and internationally. The company operates in two segments, Specialty Products & Technologies, and Equipment & Consumables. The Specialty Products & Technologies segment offers dental implant systems, guided surgery systems, biomaterials, and prefabricated and custom-built prosthetics to oral surgeons, prosthodontists and periodontists, and general dentist; and brackets and wires, tubes and bands, archwires, clear aligners, digital orthodontic treatments, retainers, and other orthodontic laboratory products.

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Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd. lowered its holdings in shares of Oppenheimer Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:OPY  Free Report) by 14.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The firm owned 13,885 shares of the financial services providers stock after selling 2,393 shares during the quarter. Connor Clark & Lunn Investment Management Ltd.s holdings in Oppenheimer were worth $913,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of OPY. Boston Partners raised its position in Oppenheimer by 457.7% during the 1st quarter. Boston Partners now owns 71,568 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,268,000 after buying an additional 58,735 shares during the last quarter. Royce & Associates LP raised its holdings in Oppenheimer by 114.8% during the first quarter. Royce & Associates LP now owns 80,551 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $4,803,000 after purchasing an additional 43,050 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its holdings in Oppenheimer by 864.7% during the first quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 41,596 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $2,480,000 after purchasing an additional 37,284 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. lifted its position in Oppenheimer by 17.2% in the first quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 227,389 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $13,559,000 after purchasing an additional 33,433 shares during the period. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. increased its position in Oppenheimer by 581.9% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 23,866 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $1,423,000 after purchasing an additional 20,366 shares during the period. 32.26% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Oppenheimer Stock Performance

OPY opened at $64.31 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $676.55 million, a price-to-earnings ratio of 8.34 and a beta of 1.22. Oppenheimer Holdings, Inc. has a one year low of $49.26 and a one year high of $79.99. The businesss fifty day moving average is $71.12 and its two-hundred day moving average is $68.91.

Oppenheimer Dividend Announcement

Oppenheimer ( NYSE:OPY Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 31st. The financial services provider reported $1.90 earnings per share for the quarter. Oppenheimer had a return on equity of 10.13% and a net margin of 5.88%.The business had revenue of $401.94 million during the quarter.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, November 28th. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $0.18 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $0.72 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.1%. Oppenheimers dividend payout ratio is presently 9.66%.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts have recently commented on OPY shares. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of Oppenheimer in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen lowered shares of Oppenheimer from a strong-buy rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Buy.

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Oppenheimer Company Profile

(Free Report)

Oppenheimer Holdings Inc operates as a middle-market investment bank and full-service broker-dealer in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia. The company provides brokerage services covering corporate equity and debt securities, money market instruments, exchange-traded options and futures contracts, municipal bonds, mutual funds, exchange-traded funds, and unit investment trusts; financial and wealth planning services; and margin lending services.

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Dorsey Wright & Associates lowered its holdings in Pampa Energia S.A. (NYSE:PAM  Free Report) by 38.7% during the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 29,907 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 18,861 shares during the quarter. Dorsey Wright & Associates owned 0.05% of Pampa Energia worth $2,075,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Advisors Preferred LLC boosted its holdings in Pampa Energia by 158.9% in the first quarter. Advisors Preferred LLC now owns 730 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $58,000 after purchasing an additional 448 shares during the last quarter. LWM Advisory Services LLC raised its stake in shares of Pampa Energia by 11.7% during the 1st quarter. LWM Advisory Services LLC now owns 5,291 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $408,000 after buying an additional 555 shares during the last quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Pampa Energia in the second quarter worth about $51,000. Townsquare Capital LLC boosted its stake in shares of Pampa Energia by 6.5% in the first quarter. Townsquare Capital LLC now owns 14,397 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,111,000 after buying an additional 878 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Whittier Trust Co. grew its holdings in Pampa Energia by 10.5% during the second quarter. Whittier Trust Co. now owns 23,229 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,612,000 after acquiring an additional 2,212 shares during the period. 12.77% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Pampa Energia Trading Up 1.5%

Shares of NYSE:PAM opened at $89.08 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $4.86 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.98, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 7.57 and a beta of 1.18. The businesss 50 day moving average price is $70.02 and its 200-day moving average price is $72.28. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.39, a current ratio of 2.70 and a quick ratio of 2.33. Pampa Energia S.A. has a 1 year low of $54.95 and a 1 year high of $97.55.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Pampa Energia ( NYSE:PAM Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The utilities provider reported $0.42 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $1.39 by ($0.97). Pampa Energia had a return on equity of 13.01% and a net margin of 23.73%.The company had revenue of $591.00 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $864.09 billion. On average, equities research analysts forecast that Pampa Energia S.A. will post 9.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

PAM has been the topic of several recent research reports. Citigroup upgraded Pampa Energia from a neutral rating to a buy rating and set a $113.00 price objective on the stock in a research report on Monday, November 3rd. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Pampa Energia from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Pampa Energia from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Pampa Energia in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Pampa Energia presently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $103.25.

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Pampa Energia Profile

(Free Report)

Pampa Energia SA operates as an integrated power company in Argentina. The company operates through Electricity Generation, Oil and Gas, Petrochemicals, and Holding and Other Business segments. It generates electricity through thermal plants, hydroelectric plants, and wind farms with a 5,332 megawatt (MW) installed capacity.

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Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM) is one of the Most Profitable Stocks to Buy Now. On November 17, Mike Yang from Bank of America Securities reiterated a Buy rating on Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limited (NYSE:TSM) with a $390 price target.

The rating comes after the company, on November 11, announced the approval of a $14.98 billion budget for supporting its long-term capacity plans. Management noted they plan to use this investment for fab construction, expanding advanced technology and packaging capabilities, and funding research and development in 2026.

Analyst Yang noted that the companys robust capital expenditure has led to increased share in the foundry industry. He expects the companys gross margins to remain robust at around 60% throughout 2027, supported by sales growing at a CAGR of 21%.

In addition, the analyst also sees Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Limiteds (NYSE:TSM) technological capability in the 2nm expansion and high-end packaging to be a significant competitive edge against its peers. Yang anticipates that this edge can potentially contribute to a 5% CAGR supply growth from 2025 to 2027.

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company Ltd. (NYSE:TSM) is the worlds largest dedicated semiconductor foundry. It produces advanced integrated circuits for global industries, including technology, communications, and automotive.

While we acknowledge the potential of TSM as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If youre looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.

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Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
Dorsey Wright & Associates reduced its stake in Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria S.A. (NYSE:BBVA  Free Report) by 38.6% during the second quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 154,639 shares of the banks stock after selling 97,375 shares during the quarter. Dorsey Wright & Associates holdings in Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria were worth $2,377,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Financial Management Professionals Inc. raised its position in shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria by 105.9% during the 2nd quarter. Financial Management Professionals Inc. now owns 1,845 shares of the banks stock valued at $28,000 after buying an additional 949 shares in the last quarter. Manchester Capital Management LLC increased its stake in Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria by 19.2% in the first quarter. Manchester Capital Management LLC now owns 4,643 shares of the banks stock valued at $63,000 after acquiring an additional 748 shares during the last quarter. GHP Investment Advisors Inc. purchased a new stake in Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria during the second quarter valued at about $98,000. UMB Bank n.a. lifted its stake in Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria by 12.8% during the second quarter. UMB Bank n.a. now owns 6,574 shares of the banks stock worth $101,000 after purchasing an additional 748 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Geneos Wealth Management Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria by 290.6% in the 1st quarter. Geneos Wealth Management Inc. now owns 6,644 shares of the banks stock worth $90,000 after purchasing an additional 4,943 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 2.96% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms recently weighed in on BBVA. Wall Street Zen upgraded Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday. Morgan Stanley started coverage on shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. They issued an equal weight rating for the company. Zacks Research lowered shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a report on Monday, November 10th. Barclays upgraded shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, August 7th. Finally, Weiss Ratings upgraded shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria from a buy (b+) rating to a buy (a-) rating in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has given a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria Stock Down 1.7%

Shares of Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria stock opened at $20.41 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.18, a quick ratio of 1.01 and a current ratio of 1.01. Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria S.A. has a 52-week low of $9.23 and a 52-week high of $22.09. The companys 50 day moving average price is $19.60 and its 200-day moving average price is $17.34. The stock has a market capitalization of $119.16 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 10.74, a P/E/G ratio of 1.07 and a beta of 1.21.

Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria (NYSE:BBVA  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The bank reported $0.49 earnings per share for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.48 by $0.01. The business had revenue of $10.62 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $10.47 billion. Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria had a net margin of 29.17% and a return on equity of 17.61%. Equities research analysts forecast that Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria S.A. will post 1.59 EPS for the current year.

Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a dividend, which will be paid on Monday, November 24th. Investors of record on Thursday, November 6th will be paid a $0.3736 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Thursday, November 6th. This represents a dividend yield of 361.0%. Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentarias dividend payout ratio (DPR) is presently 31.41%.

Banco Bilbao Viscaya Argentaria Company Profile

(Free Report)

Banco Bilbao Vizcaya Argentaria, SA provides retail banking, wholesale banking, and asset management services in the United States, Spain, Mexico, Turkey, South America, and internationally. The company offers savings account, demand deposits, and time deposits; and loan products, such as residential mortgages, other households, credit card loans, loans to enterprises and public sector, as well as consumer finance.

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Savant Capital LLC boosted its stake in Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. (NYSE:MFG  Free Report) by 62.8% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 55,064 shares of the banks stock after acquiring an additional 21,247 shares during the quarter. Savant Capital LLCs holdings in Mizuho Financial Group were worth $306,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors also recently bought and sold shares of MFG. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 0.4% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 14,508,417 shares of the banks stock valued at $79,941,000 after purchasing an additional 57,806 shares during the period. Northern Trust Corp lifted its holdings in Mizuho Financial Group by 2.2% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 9,954,056 shares of the banks stock worth $54,847,000 after buying an additional 210,073 shares in the last quarter. American Century Companies Inc. boosted its position in Mizuho Financial Group by 3.5% in the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 2,845,350 shares of the banks stock valued at $15,678,000 after buying an additional 95,035 shares during the last quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. boosted its position in Mizuho Financial Group by 3.9% in the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 1,602,728 shares of the banks stock valued at $8,831,000 after buying an additional 59,671 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Mizuho Financial Group by 17.8% during the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 1,121,350 shares of the banks stock valued at $6,179,000 after acquiring an additional 169,243 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 3.26% of the companys stock.

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Mizuho Financial Group Trading Down 3.3%

NYSE:MFG opened at $6.56 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $81.92 billion, a PE ratio of 13.66, a P/E/G ratio of 0.80 and a beta of 0.34. The businesss 50 day moving average is $6.59 and its two-hundred day moving average is $6.07. The company has a quick ratio of 0.96, a current ratio of 0.96 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.21. Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. has a 52 week low of $4.04 and a 52 week high of $7.11.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

Mizuho Financial Group ( NYSE:MFG Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, November 14th. The bank reported $0.20 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.17 by $0.03. The business had revenue of $5.61 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $5.74 billion. Mizuho Financial Group had a return on equity of 8.48% and a net margin of 10.16%. On average, analysts predict that Mizuho Financial Group, Inc. will post 0.42 EPS for the current year.

MFG has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. Zacks Research cut Mizuho Financial Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, August 25th. Wall Street Zen raised Mizuho Financial Group from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Sunday, August 3rd. Finally, Weiss Ratings raised shares of Mizuho Financial Group from a buy (b+) rating to a buy (a-) rating in a research report on Friday. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and one has assigned a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Mizuho Financial Group has a consensus rating of Buy.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Mizuho Financial Group

About Mizuho Financial Group

(Free Report)

Mizuho Financial Group, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in banking, trust, securities, and other businesses related to financial services in Japan, the Americas, Europe, Asia/Oceania, and internationally. It operates through Retail & Business Banking Company, Corporate & Institutional Company, Global Corporate Company, Global Markets Company, Asset Management Company, and Others segments.

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Mohawk Industries, Inc. (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report) insider Suzanne Helen sold 500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, November 13th. The shares were sold at an average price of $109.04, for a total value of $54,520.00. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 82,378 shares of the companys stock, valued at $8,982,497.12. This represents a 0.60% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink.

Mohawk Industries Price Performance

Mohawk Industries stock opened at $104.05 on Wednesday. The businesss fifty day moving average is $122.31 and its two-hundred day moving average is $116.52. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.21, a quick ratio of 1.24 and a current ratio of 2.25. The firm has a market cap of $6.43 billion, a P/E ratio of 15.48, a P/E/G ratio of 2.38 and a beta of 1.31. Mohawk Industries, Inc. has a 52 week low of $96.24 and a 52 week high of $146.93.

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Mohawk Industries (NYSE:MHK  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The company reported $2.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $2.68 by ($0.01). The business had revenue of $2.76 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $2.73 billion. Mohawk Industries had a net margin of 3.93% and a return on equity of 6.97%. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 1.4% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $2.90 earnings per share. Mohawk Industries has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 1.900-2.000 EPS. Equities research analysts forecast that Mohawk Industries, Inc. will post 9.8 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts have recently issued reports on MHK shares. JPMorgan Chase & Co. upped their target price on shares of Mohawk Industries from $139.00 to $140.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Tuesday, July 29th. Vertical Research began coverage on Mohawk Industries in a report on Monday, October 20th. They set a buy rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canada reissued a sector perform rating and issued a $123.00 target price (up from $119.00) on shares of Mohawk Industries in a research note on Monday, July 28th. Evercore ISI set a $124.00 target price on Mohawk Industries in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Mohawk Industries in a report on Friday, October 31st. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and six have given a Hold rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Mohawk Industries currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $138.46.

Get Our Latest Analysis on MHK

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the stock. AQR Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of Mohawk Industries by 73.9% during the 3rd quarter. AQR Capital Management LLC now owns 1,578,335 shares of the companys stock worth $200,922,000 after buying an additional 670,601 shares during the period. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. boosted its stake in Mohawk Industries by 436.4% during the 1st quarter. Alyeska Investment Group L.P. now owns 756,030 shares of the companys stock worth $86,324,000 after acquiring an additional 615,095 shares during the last quarter. Sound Shore Management Inc. CT acquired a new position in Mohawk Industries during the first quarter valued at approximately $61,159,000. Norges Bank bought a new stake in Mohawk Industries in the second quarter valued at approximately $48,276,000. Finally, Steadfast Capital Management LP raised its holdings in Mohawk Industries by 96.3% in the third quarter. Steadfast Capital Management LP now owns 937,301 shares of the companys stock worth $120,837,000 after purchasing an additional 459,700 shares during the period. 78.98% of the stock is currently owned by institutional investors.

About Mohawk Industries

(Get Free Report)

Mohawk Industries, Inc designs, manufactures, sources, distributes, and markets flooring products for residential and commercial remodeling, and new construction channels in the United States, Europe, Latin America, and internationally. It operates through three segments: Global Ceramic, Flooring North America, and Flooring Rest of the World.

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Dorsey Wright & Associates bought a new stake in shares of Boston Scientific Corporation (NYSE:BSX  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 15,232 shares of the medical equipment providers stock, valued at approximately $1,636,000.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. lifted its holdings in Boston Scientific by 1.9% during the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 137,134,110 shares of the medical equipment providers stock valued at $14,729,575,000 after purchasing an additional 2,545,381 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Boston Scientific by 2.0% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 32,424,982 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $3,466,320,000 after purchasing an additional 622,602 shares in the last quarter. Invesco Ltd. raised its position in shares of Boston Scientific by 5.3% during the 1st quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 16,624,940 shares of the medical equipment providers stock worth $1,677,124,000 after purchasing an additional 834,274 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. lifted its stake in Boston Scientific by 10.8% in the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 14,143,332 shares of the medical equipment providers stock valued at $1,426,779,000 after buying an additional 1,383,524 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Amundi lifted its stake in Boston Scientific by 2.6% in the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 12,308,715 shares of the medical equipment providers stock valued at $1,212,408,000 after buying an additional 311,034 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 89.07% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Boston Scientific

In other news, EVP Joseph Michael Fitzgerald sold 50,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 1st. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.47, for a total transaction of $4,923,500.00. Following the completion of the sale, the executive vice president owned 178,342 shares in the company, valued at $17,561,336.74. This trade represents a 21.90% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, Director Ellen M. Zane sold 12,891 shares of the companys stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, November 6th. The shares were sold at an average price of $98.28, for a total value of $1,266,927.48. Following the completion of the transaction, the director owned 24,134 shares in the company, valued at $2,371,889.52. This represents a 34.82% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders have sold 175,782 shares of company stock worth $17,742,314 over the last ninety days. 0.50% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Boston Scientific Stock Performance

NYSE BSX opened at $99.23 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.49, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a current ratio of 1.37. The stocks fifty day moving average is $99.41 and its two-hundred day moving average is $102.51. The firm has a market capitalization of $147.10 billion, a P/E ratio of 53.06, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.02 and a beta of 0.58. Boston Scientific Corporation has a fifty-two week low of $85.98 and a fifty-two week high of $109.50.

Boston Scientific (NYSE:BSX  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Wednesday, October 22nd. The medical equipment provider reported $0.75 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.71 by $0.04. The business had revenue of $5.07 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.97 billion. Boston Scientific had a return on equity of 19.74% and a net margin of 14.43%.The companys revenue for the quarter was up 20.3% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.63 EPS. Boston Scientific has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.020-3.040 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.770-0.790 EPS. On average, research analysts anticipate that Boston Scientific Corporation will post 2.85 earnings per share for the current year.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

BSX has been the subject of a number of research analyst reports. BTIG Research reissued a buy rating and set a $132.00 target price on shares of Boston Scientific in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Barclays boosted their price target on Boston Scientific from $133.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Thursday, October 2nd. Morgan Stanley increased their price objective on Boston Scientific from $125.00 to $130.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Thursday, October 23rd. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating and set a $124.00 target price on shares of Boston Scientific in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Wall Street Zen raised shares of Boston Scientific from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, October 11th. Two equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twenty-one have issued a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, Boston Scientific presently has an average rating of Buy and a consensus target price of $123.77.

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Boston Scientific Company Profile

(Free Report)

Boston Scientific Corporation develops, manufactures, and markets medical devices for use in various interventional medical specialties worldwide. It operates through two segments, MedSurg and Cardiovascular. The company offers devices to diagnose and treat gastrointestinal and pulmonary conditions, such as resolution clips, biliary stent systems, stents and electrocautery enhanced delivery systems, direct visualization systems, digital catheters, and single-use duodenoscopes; devices to treat urological conditions, including ureteral stents, catheters, baskets, guidewires, sheaths, balloons, single-use digital flexible ureteroscopes, holmium laser systems, artificial urinary sphincter, laser system, fiber, and hydrogel systems; and devices to treat neurological movement disorders and manage chronic pain, such as spinal cord stimulator system, proprietary programming software, radiofrequency generator, indirect decompression systems, practice optimization tools, and deep brain stimulation system.

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Empowered Funds LLC cut its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS  Free Report) by 27.9% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 14,465 shares of the investment management companys stock after selling 5,608 shares during the quarter. Empowered Funds LLCs holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group were worth $10,238,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

A number of other large investors have also bought and sold shares of GS. Clal Insurance Enterprises Holdings Ltd purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the first quarter worth $25,000. Dogwood Wealth Management LLC grew its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 1,800.0% in the 2nd quarter. Dogwood Wealth Management LLC now owns 38 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 36 shares during the last quarter. Clearstead Trust LLC purchased a new position in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in the second quarter valued at about $31,000. Ridgewood Investments LLC raised its stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 45.9% during the second quarter. Ridgewood Investments LLC now owns 54 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $38,000 after acquiring an additional 17 shares during the last quarter. Finally, MeadowBrook Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the second quarter worth about $39,000. 71.21% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insider Buying and Selling at The Goldman Sachs Group

In other news, COO John E. Waldron sold 9,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $750.51, for a total value of $6,754,590.00. Following the sale, the chief operating officer directly owned 106,268 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $79,755,196.68. This represents a 7.81% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. 0.55% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of research firms have commented on GS. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c+) rating on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Barclays upped their target price on The Goldman Sachs Group from $720.00 to $850.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. Citigroup lifted their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $700.00 to $765.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Thursday, October 16th. BNP Paribas Exane upped their price objective on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $685.00 to $775.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a report on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Zacks Research lowered shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from a strong-buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Tuesday, September 16th. Four equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $786.00.

Read Our Latest Stock Analysis on GS

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Performance

Shares of GS stock opened at $777.11 on Wednesday. The companys fifty day moving average price is $786.05 and its 200-day moving average price is $714.77. The stock has a market cap of $233.08 billion, a PE ratio of 15.79, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a current ratio of 1.11, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $439.38 and a 12 month high of $841.28.

The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $10.27 by $1.98. The Goldman Sachs Group had a net margin of 13.18% and a return on equity of 14.79%. The company had revenue of $15.18 billion during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $13.68 billion. During the same period last year, the business earned $8.40 EPS. The Goldman Sachs Groups quarterly revenue was up 19.5% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, equities analysts expect that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, December 2nd will be given a $4.00 dividend. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Tuesday, December 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups payout ratio is currently 32.50%.

About The Goldman Sachs Group

(Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Kingsview Wealth Management LLC increased its position in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (NYSEARCA:PGHY  Free Report) by 4.5% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the SEC. The fund owned 118,851 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 5,171 shares during the quarter. Kingsview Wealth Management LLC owned approximately 1.33% of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF worth $2,362,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Several other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the business. CWM LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 11.3% during the second quarter. CWM LLC now owns 6,166 shares of the companys stock worth $123,000 after purchasing an additional 626 shares during the last quarter. Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. increased its stake in Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 312.7% in the first quarter. Hazlett Burt & Watson Inc. now owns 1,296 shares of the companys stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 982 shares during the last quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. lifted its position in Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 13.4% during the second quarter. Atria Wealth Solutions Inc. now owns 18,828 shares of the companys stock worth $374,000 after buying an additional 2,220 shares during the period. Assetmark Inc. boosted its stake in Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 89.7% in the 1st quarter. Assetmark Inc. now owns 6,972 shares of the companys stock worth $138,000 after buying an additional 3,296 shares during the last quarter. Finally, HighTower Advisors LLC boosted its stake in Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF by 5.9% in the 1st quarter. HighTower Advisors LLC now owns 102,519 shares of the companys stock worth $2,032,000 after buying an additional 5,725 shares during the last quarter.

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Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF Stock Up 0.2%

NYSEARCA PGHY opened at $19.91 on Wednesday. Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF has a 12 month low of $18.75 and a 12 month high of $20.40. The company has a 50-day moving average of $19.97 and a 200-day moving average of $19.89.

About Invesco Global ex-US High Yield Corporate Bond ETF

The Invesco Global Short Term High Yield Bond ETF (PGHY) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in high yield fixed income. The fund tracks an equal-weighted index of short-term USD-denominated, high-yield corporate bonds issues by US and foreign corporations. PGHY was launched on Jun 20, 2013 and is managed by Invesco.

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Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. raised its stake in shares of Healthpeak Properties, Inc. (NYSE:DOC  Free Report) by 0.9% during the second quarter, according to its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 1,211,123 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after acquiring an additional 10,347 shares during the quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd.s holdings in Healthpeak Properties were worth $21,207,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently modified their holdings of DOC. Larson Financial Group LLC raised its stake in shares of Healthpeak Properties by 120.6% in the 1st quarter. Larson Financial Group LLC now owns 1,873 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $38,000 after purchasing an additional 1,024 shares in the last quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky grew its stake in Healthpeak Properties by 3.7% in the first quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 53,975 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $1,091,000 after purchasing an additional 1,908 shares in the last quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC increased its holdings in Healthpeak Properties by 226.4% in the first quarter. Lindbrook Capital LLC now owns 10,972 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $222,000 after buying an additional 7,610 shares during the last quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC increased its holdings in Healthpeak Properties by 1.5% in the first quarter. GW&K Investment Management LLC now owns 1,730,356 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $34,988,000 after buying an additional 25,193 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Y Intercept Hong Kong Ltd acquired a new stake in Healthpeak Properties during the first quarter valued at approximately $872,000. Institutional investors own 93.57% of the companys stock.

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Healthpeak Properties Trading Up 2.3%

NYSE:DOC opened at $17.70 on Wednesday. The firm has a market capitalization of $12.30 billion, a P/E ratio of -353.83, a P/E/G ratio of 3.84 and a beta of 1.10. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $18.32 and a 200 day simple moving average of $17.83. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.11, a current ratio of 1.22 and a quick ratio of 1.28. Healthpeak Properties, Inc. has a 12-month low of $16.63 and a 12-month high of $22.71.

Healthpeak Properties Announces Dividend

Healthpeak Properties ( NYSE:DOC Get Free Report ) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $0.46 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.45 by $0.01. Healthpeak Properties had a negative return on equity of 0.44% and a negative net margin of 1.36%.The firm had revenue of $705.87 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $681.65 million. During the same period last year, the company earned $0.45 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up .8% on a year-over-year basis. Healthpeak Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.810-1.870 EPS. Equities research analysts predict that Healthpeak Properties, Inc. will post 1.86 EPS for the current year.

The company also recently disclosed a monthly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Investors of record on Friday, December 19th will be given a $0.1017 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 19th. This represents a c) annualized dividend and a yield of 6.9%. Healthpeak Propertiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently -2,440.00%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have recently commented on the company. Evercore ISI set a $22.00 target price on Healthpeak Properties in a research report on Monday, September 15th. Scotiabank cut Healthpeak Properties from a sector outperform rating to a sector perform rating and reduced their price objective for the stock from $21.00 to $19.00 in a research note on Tuesday, July 29th. Robert W. Baird decreased their price objective on shares of Healthpeak Properties from $21.00 to $20.00 and set an outperform rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. Deutsche Bank Aktiengesellschaft reiterated a hold rating and set a $18.00 target price (down previously from $28.00) on shares of Healthpeak Properties in a research note on Wednesday, August 20th. Finally, Weiss Ratings downgraded shares of Healthpeak Properties from a hold (c-) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. Seven equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company presently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $20.82.

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Healthpeak Properties Company Profile

(Free Report)

Healthpeak Properties, Inc is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) and S&P 500 company. Healthpeak owns, operates, and develops high-quality real estate for healthcare discovery and delivery.

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LSV Asset Management lowered its position in Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG  Free Report) by 6.0% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 937,800 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after selling 59,800 shares during the quarter. LSV Asset Managements holdings in Kite Realty Group Trust were worth $21,241,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other institutional investors have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Truist Financial Corp boosted its stake in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 5.3% during the 2nd quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 10,024 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $227,000 after purchasing an additional 503 shares during the period. State of Alaska Department of Revenue boosted its position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 0.5% during the second quarter. State of Alaska Department of Revenue now owns 131,664 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $2,981,000 after buying an additional 641 shares during the period. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC boosted its position in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 3.1% during the second quarter. Verdence Capital Advisors LLC now owns 22,302 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $505,000 after buying an additional 661 shares during the period. Nissay Asset Management Corp Japan ADV grew its stake in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 2.4% during the first quarter. Nissay Asset Management Corp Japan ADV now owns 32,956 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $737,000 after buying an additional 778 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Blue Trust Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Kite Realty Group Trust by 44.0% in the second quarter. Blue Trust Inc. now owns 2,973 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $67,000 after buying an additional 908 shares during the period. Institutional investors own 90.81% of the companys stock.

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Insider Transactions at Kite Realty Group Trust

In related news, CEO John A. Kite sold 50,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, September 3rd. The shares were sold at an average price of $22.70, for a total value of $1,135,000.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief executive officer owned 54,121 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,228,546.70. The trade was a 48.02% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at the SEC website. 2.00% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on the company. Citigroup restated a neutral rating and set a $24.00 price objective (down previously from $28.00) on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a report on Friday, September 12th. Raymond James Financial downgraded Kite Realty Group Trust from a strong-buy rating to a market perform rating in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. Wells Fargo & Company upgraded shares of Kite Realty Group Trust from an equal weight rating to an overweight rating and upped their price target for the stock from $23.00 to $25.00 in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Piper Sandler reaffirmed a neutral rating and issued a $24.00 price target (down previously from $25.00) on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research note on Monday, August 4th. Finally, LADENBURG THALM/SH SH assumed coverage on shares of Kite Realty Group Trust in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. They issued a buy rating and a $30.00 price objective for the company. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $25.88.

Check Out Our Latest Research Report on KRG

Kite Realty Group Trust Price Performance

KRG opened at $22.24 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 1.70, a quick ratio of 1.70 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.91. The businesss fifty day simple moving average is $22.28 and its 200-day simple moving average is $22.35. The company has a market capitalization of $4.81 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 34.75, a PEG ratio of 6.16 and a beta of 1.13. Kite Realty Group Trust has a 12-month low of $18.51 and a 12-month high of $28.24.

Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE:KRG  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $0.52 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.51 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $205.06 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $208.82 million. Kite Realty Group Trust had a net margin of 16.34% and a return on equity of 4.23%. Kite Realty Group Trust has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.090-2.110 EPS. On average, equities research analysts anticipate that Kite Realty Group Trust will post 2.05 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Kite Realty Group Trust Increases Dividend

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 16th. Investors of record on Friday, January 9th will be issued a dividend of $0.29 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, January 9th. This is a positive change from Kite Realty Group Trusts previous quarterly dividend of $0.27. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a yield of 5.2%. Kite Realty Group Trusts dividend payout ratio is 181.25%.

About Kite Realty Group Trust

(Free Report)

Kite Realty Group Trust (NYSE: KRG) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) headquartered in Indianapolis, IN that is one of the largest publicly traded owners and operators of open-air shopping centers and mixed-use assets. The Companys primarily grocery-anchored portfolio is located in high-growth Sun Belt and select strategic gateway markets.

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Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc. raised its position in shares of MetLife, Inc. (NYSE:MET  Free Report) by 13.2% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The firm owned 6,917 shares of the financial services providers stock after buying an additional 806 shares during the period. Pinnacle Wealth Planning Services Inc.s holdings in MetLife were worth $556,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC grew its position in MetLife by 9.4% in the 2nd quarter. Frank Rimerman Advisors LLC now owns 9,734 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $783,000 after acquiring an additional 839 shares in the last quarter. Mount Lucas Management LP grew its holdings in shares of MetLife by 9.1% in the second quarter. Mount Lucas Management LP now owns 25,252 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $2,031,000 after purchasing an additional 2,112 shares in the last quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC grew its holdings in shares of MetLife by 18.8% in the second quarter. Dorsey & Whitney Trust CO LLC now owns 9,785 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $787,000 after purchasing an additional 1,548 shares in the last quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. increased its stake in MetLife by 4.3% during the 2nd quarter. Nomura Asset Management Co. Ltd. now owns 201,040 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $16,168,000 after buying an additional 8,253 shares during the period. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH lifted its holdings in MetLife by 0.9% during the 2nd quarter. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH now owns 671,201 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $53,978,000 after buying an additional 5,983 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 94.99% of the companys stock.

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MetLife Trading Down 0.2%

MET opened at $75.41 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.57, a quick ratio of 0.16 and a current ratio of 0.16. MetLife, Inc. has a one year low of $65.21 and a one year high of $89.05. The company has a market cap of $49.68 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.78, a PEG ratio of 0.70 and a beta of 0.87. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $79.66 and its 200-day simple moving average is $78.95.

MetLife Announces Dividend

MetLife ( NYSE:MET Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The financial services provider reported $2.37 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.30 by $0.07. MetLife had a return on equity of 19.88% and a net margin of 5.83%.The firm had revenue of $17.90 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $18.64 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the company posted $1.95 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was down 5.9% compared to the same quarter last year. As a group, equities research analysts expect that MetLife, Inc. will post 9.65 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 9th. Investors of record on Tuesday, November 4th will be paid a dividend of $0.5675 per share. This represents a $2.27 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.0%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, November 4th. MetLifes dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 42.75%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of research firms have recently weighed in on MET. Piper Sandler lowered MetLife from an overweight rating to a neutral rating and set a $84.00 price objective on the stock. in a research report on Friday, September 19th. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on MetLife from $94.00 to $97.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Wolfe Research raised MetLife to a strong-buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 16th. Barclays boosted their price objective on MetLife from $93.00 to $98.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods reduced their target price on shares of MetLife from $92.00 to $90.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Tuesday, November 11th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, ten have assigned a Buy rating and two have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $95.00.

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MetLife Company Profile

(Free Report)

MetLife, Inc, a financial services company, provides insurance, annuities, employee benefits, and asset management services worldwide. It operates through six segments: Retirement and Income Solutions; Group Benefits; Asia; Latin America; Europe, the Middle East and Africa; and MetLife Holdings. The company offers life, dental, group short-and long-term disability, individual disability, pet insurance, accidental death and dismemberment, vision, and accident and health coverages, as well as prepaid legal plans; administrative services-only arrangements to employers; and general and separate account, and synthetic guaranteed interest contracts, as well as private floating rate funding agreements.

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Rockefeller Capital Management L.P. lowered its holdings in Illinois Tool Works Inc. (NYSE:ITW  Free Report) by 25.4% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent filing with the SEC. The firm owned 67,413 shares of the industrial products companys stock after selling 22,958 shares during the quarter. Rockefeller Capital Management L.P.s holdings in Illinois Tool Works were worth $16,668,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently made changes to their positions in the company. OneAscent Financial Services LLC increased its position in Illinois Tool Works by 25.8% during the 1st quarter. OneAscent Financial Services LLC now owns 1,664 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $416,000 after purchasing an additional 341 shares during the period. Modern Wealth Management LLC boosted its stake in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 8.3% during the 1st quarter. Modern Wealth Management LLC now owns 848 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $210,000 after purchasing an additional 65 shares in the last quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund increased its position in shares of Illinois Tool Works by 39.5% during the second quarter. Illinois Municipal Retirement Fund now owns 67,439 shares of the industrial products companys stock valued at $16,674,000 after buying an additional 19,102 shares during the period. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. raised its stake in Illinois Tool Works by 17.3% in the second quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. now owns 17,987 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $4,447,000 after buying an additional 2,647 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nordea Investment Management AB lifted its holdings in Illinois Tool Works by 9.5% in the second quarter. Nordea Investment Management AB now owns 38,993 shares of the industrial products companys stock worth $9,605,000 after buying an additional 3,388 shares during the period. 79.77% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Insiders Place Their Bets

In other Illinois Tool Works news, CAO Randall J. Scheuneman sold 6,802 shares of the companys stock in a transaction dated Thursday, September 11th. The shares were sold at an average price of $265.08, for a total transaction of $1,803,074.16. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer owned 10,314 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,734,035.12. This represents a 39.74% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, Director Pamela B. Strobel sold 1,521 shares of Illinois Tool Works stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $245.25, for a total transaction of $373,025.25. Following the completion of the sale, the director owned 39,249 shares of the companys stock, valued at $9,625,817.25. This represents a 3.73% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. Corporate insiders own 0.88% of the companys stock.

Illinois Tool Works Stock Up 0.2%

Shares of Illinois Tool Works stock opened at $241.90 on Wednesday. The company has a 50-day simple moving average of $252.52 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $253.16. The stock has a market capitalization of $70.18 billion, a PE ratio of 23.46, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 4.10 and a beta of 1.11. Illinois Tool Works Inc. has a 52-week low of $214.66 and a 52-week high of $279.13. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.39, a quick ratio of 1.11 and a current ratio of 1.53.

Illinois Tool Works (NYSE:ITW  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Friday, October 24th. The industrial products company reported $2.81 EPS for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $2.72 by $0.09. Illinois Tool Works had a net margin of 19.05% and a return on equity of 93.26%. The firm had revenue of $4.06 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $4.09 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company posted $3.91 earnings per share. The businesss revenue for the quarter was up 2.3% on a year-over-year basis. Illinois Tool Works has set its FY 2025 guidance at 10.400-10.500 EPS. On average, analysts anticipate that Illinois Tool Works Inc. will post 10.39 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Illinois Tool Works Dividend Announcement

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 9th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be paid a $1.61 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $6.44 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 2.7%. Illinois Tool Workss payout ratio is currently 62.46%.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several brokerages have recently issued reports on ITW. Stifel Nicolaus increased their target price on Illinois Tool Works from $255.00 to $261.00 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Thursday, July 31st. The Goldman Sachs Group set a $258.00 price target on Illinois Tool Works in a research note on Monday, October 27th. Weiss Ratings reissued a buy (b-) rating on shares of Illinois Tool Works in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Truist Financial reduced their target price on shares of Illinois Tool Works from $298.00 to $275.00 and set a hold rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Evercore ISI set a $265.00 price target on shares of Illinois Tool Works and gave the company an underperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, August 19th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, eight have issued a Hold rating and three have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Reduce and an average target price of $264.69.

Get Our Latest Analysis on Illinois Tool Works

About Illinois Tool Works

(Free Report)

Illinois Tool Works Inc manufactures and sells industrial products and equipment in the United States and internationally. It operates through seven segments: Automotive OEM; Food Equipment; Test & Measurement and Electronics; Welding; Polymers & Fluids; Construction Products; and Specialty Products.

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In August 2025, after President Donald Trump repeated his preference for partially privatizing government-sponsored mortgage enterprises Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, some significant government and business leaders responded.

Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) director  and Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac chairman  Bill Pulte hinted on X (formerly Twitter) that an Initial Public Offering (IPO) could be in the works for late 2025.

Pershing Square Capital Management founder Bill Ackman suggested a merger of the two companies.

Related: Fannie Mae predicts major mortgage rate change coming soon

"One way to reduce mortgage rates would be to merge Fannie and Freddie," Ackman wrote on X on August 10. "A merger would enable them to achieve huge synergies both in their operations and in the trading price and spreads of their MBS (mortgage-backed securities), savings which could be passed along to consumers in the form of reduced mortgage rates."

"A merger would also reduce the cost and risks of government oversight as there would be only one institution that would require FHFA oversight," he added.

In a Pershing Square presentation  and question and answer session  on Nov. 18, Ackman seemed to backpedal from suggestions of both an IPO and a merger for Fannie and Freddie, and he raised an alternative solution.

Bill Ackman eyes different fix for Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac

Plans for a potential IPO involving Fannie Mae (FNMA) and Freddie Mac (FMCC) have explored two paths: combining the firms into a single entity or keeping them independent.

No decision has been finalized, and analysts caution that a merger would be highly complicated and fraught with obstacles.

Since the 2008 financial crisis, both companies have operated under federal conservatorship. Together, they back roughly 70% of U.S. home loans, according to the National Association of Realtors, underscoring their critical role in the housing finance system.

The Trump administration has suggested an offering that could generate around $30 billion by selling 5% to 15% of the companies shares to investors. Market observers estimate that, taken together, Fannie and Freddie could be valued at more than $500 billion  placing the deal among the largest IPOs ever contemplated.

"I do not think it makes sense to merge the two companies," Ackman said Nov. 18. "While they are in a very dominant position, I think it's helpful that they are two separate businesses that have to compete."

"I think that participants in the mortgage market don't want to deal with a monopoly," he added.
Mexico Fund, Inc. (The) (NYSE:MXF  Get Free Report) major shareholder Saba Capital Management, L.P. purchased 13,451 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Monday, November 17th. The stock was purchased at an average cost of $18.94 per share, for a total transaction of $254,761.94. Following the acquisition, the insider owned 1,550,425 shares in the company, valued at approximately $29,365,049.50. The trade was a 0.88% increase in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which is available through the SEC website. Large shareholders that own more than 10% of a companys stock are required to disclose their sales and purchases with the SEC.

Saba Capital Management, L.P. also recently made the following trade(s):

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On Thursday, October 23rd, Saba Capital Management, L.P. acquired 506 shares of Mexico Fund stock. The stock was acquired at an average price of $18.64 per share, with a total value of $9,431.84.

Mexico Fund Stock Up 2.4%

Shares of MXF stock opened at $19.14 on Wednesday. The stock has a fifty day moving average of $19.11 and a 200 day moving average of $17.95. Mexico Fund, Inc. has a 52 week low of $12.99 and a 52 week high of $19.86.

Mexico Fund Dividend Announcement

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Mexico Fund

The firm also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Thursday, October 30th. Investors of record on Wednesday, October 22nd were paid a $0.25 dividend. This represents a $1.00 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.2%. The ex-dividend date was Wednesday, October 22nd.

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the stock. City of London Investment Management Co. Ltd. boosted its stake in Mexico Fund by 9.3% in the 2nd quarter. City of London Investment Management Co. Ltd. now owns 3,608,772 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $63,406,000 after purchasing an additional 305,864 shares during the period. SFI Advisors LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Mexico Fund by 342.4% in the first quarter. SFI Advisors LLC now owns 131,807 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $1,876,000 after buying an additional 102,015 shares in the last quarter. Wolverine Asset Management LLC lifted its holdings in shares of Mexico Fund by 62.1% in the first quarter. Wolverine Asset Management LLC now owns 236,078 shares of the investment management companys stock worth $3,359,000 after buying an additional 90,483 shares in the last quarter. North Ground Capital bought a new position in shares of Mexico Fund during the third quarter worth $608,000. Finally, Almitas Capital LLC grew its stake in Mexico Fund by 8.3% during the first quarter. Almitas Capital LLC now owns 344,264 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $4,899,000 after acquiring an additional 26,418 shares in the last quarter.

About Mexico Fund

(Get Free Report)

The Mexico Fund, Inc is a closed-ended equity mutual fund launched and managed by Impulsora del Fondo Mexico, S.C. It primarily invests in public equity markets of Mexico. The fund seeks to invest its portfolio across diversified sectors. The Mexico Fund, Inc was formed in June 01, 1981 and is domiciled in Maryland, United States.

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Greenland Capital Management LP acquired a new stake in EastGroup Properties, Inc. (NYSE:EGP  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The institutional investor acquired 63,731 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock, valued at approximately $10,651,000. EastGroup Properties makes up about 1.1% of Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings, making the stock its 18th largest position.

Several other hedge funds also recently made changes to their positions in the company. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of EastGroup Properties in the 1st quarter valued at approximately $190,456,000. Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC raised its position in shares of EastGroup Properties by 1,058.6% during the 1st quarter. Cbre Investment Management Listed Real Assets LLC now owns 621,303 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $109,443,000 after purchasing an additional 567,678 shares during the period. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD lifted its holdings in shares of EastGroup Properties by 35.1% in the 1st quarter. Price T Rowe Associates Inc. MD now owns 1,318,090 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $232,184,000 after purchasing an additional 342,620 shares during the last quarter. Millennium Management LLC boosted its position in EastGroup Properties by 176.4% during the 1st quarter. Millennium Management LLC now owns 493,144 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock valued at $86,867,000 after purchasing an additional 314,738 shares during the period. Finally, Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH bought a new position in EastGroup Properties during the 1st quarter worth $52,065,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 92.14% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several equities analysts have recently commented on EGP shares. Morgan Stanley upped their price target on shares of EastGroup Properties from $170.00 to $178.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 9th. BNP Paribas upgraded EastGroup Properties from a neutral rating to an outperform rating and set a $207.00 price objective for the company in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Evercore ISI decreased their price objective on EastGroup Properties from $180.00 to $179.00 and set an in-line rating for the company in a report on Monday, October 6th. Wells Fargo & Company lifted their target price on EastGroup Properties from $187.00 to $196.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Finally, Truist Financial boosted their price target on EastGroup Properties from $177.00 to $188.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, November 12th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, eight have assigned a Buy rating and seven have issued a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average price target of $190.80.

Insider Buying and Selling at EastGroup Properties

In related news, EVP Richard Reid Dunbar sold 2,000 shares of EastGroup Properties stock in a transaction on Wednesday, November 5th. The stock was sold at an average price of $175.00, for a total value of $350,000.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president directly owned 20,630 shares in the company, valued at $3,610,250. The trade was a 8.84% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this link. 1.00% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

EastGroup Properties Stock Performance

Shares of NYSE EGP opened at $179.93 on Wednesday. EastGroup Properties, Inc. has a 1 year low of $137.67 and a 1 year high of $188.89. The firm has a market cap of $9.60 billion, a P/E ratio of 37.80, a PEG ratio of 3.67 and a beta of 1.04. The stock has a fifty day moving average price of $172.97 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $169.39. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.42, a quick ratio of 0.01 and a current ratio of 0.01.

EastGroup Properties (NYSE:EGP  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 23rd. The real estate investment trust reported $2.27 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $2.28 by ($0.01). EastGroup Properties had a net margin of 35.58% and a return on equity of 7.28%. The firm had revenue of $182.14 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $181.88 million. During the same quarter last year, the company earned $2.13 EPS. The companys quarterly revenue was up 11.8% compared to the same quarter last year. EastGroup Properties has set its FY 2025 guidance at 8.940-8.980 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 2.300-2.340 EPS. Research analysts forecast that EastGroup Properties, Inc. will post 8.94 EPS for the current fiscal year.

EastGroup Properties Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Stockholders of record on Tuesday, September 30th were given a dividend of $1.55 per share. This is a boost from EastGroup Propertiess previous quarterly dividend of $1.40. The ex-dividend date was Tuesday, September 30th. This represents a $6.20 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 3.4%. EastGroup Propertiess payout ratio is currently 130.25%.

EastGroup Properties Profile

(Free Report)

EastGroup Properties, Inc (NYSE: EGP), a member of the S&P Mid-Cap 400 and Russell 1000 Indexes, is a self-administered equity real estate investment trust focused on the development, acquisition and operation of industrial properties in major Sunbelt markets throughout the United States with an emphasis in the states of Florida, Texas, Arizona, California and North Carolina.

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Greenland Capital Management LP boosted its stake in Essex Property Trust, Inc. (NYSE:ESS  Free Report) by 630.6% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm owned 21,917 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock after buying an additional 18,917 shares during the period. Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings in Essex Property Trust were worth $6,211,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Several other large investors have also bought and sold shares of ESS. Richardson Financial Services Inc. raised its position in shares of Essex Property Trust by 300.0% in the 2nd quarter. Richardson Financial Services Inc. now owns 100 shares of the real estate investment trusts stock worth $28,000 after acquiring an additional 75 shares in the last quarter. WPG Advisers LLC bought a new stake in shares of Essex Property Trust during the first quarter valued at approximately $31,000. Ransom Advisory Ltd purchased a new stake in Essex Property Trust in the first quarter worth $31,000. Zions Bancorporation National Association UT bought a new position in Essex Property Trust in the first quarter worth $34,000. Finally, Princeton Global Asset Management LLC bought a new position in Essex Property Trust in the second quarter worth $34,000. 96.51% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Essex Property Trust Stock Performance

Shares of ESS stock opened at $253.39 on Wednesday. The company has a quick ratio of 1.09, a current ratio of 1.09 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.16. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $260.96 and a 200-day moving average price of $271.17. Essex Property Trust, Inc. has a 52 week low of $243.25 and a 52 week high of $316.29. The firm has a market capitalization of $16.32 billion, a PE ratio of 19.25, a P/E/G ratio of 6.00 and a beta of 0.82.

Essex Property Trust Announces Dividend

Essex Property Trust ( NYSE:ESS Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The real estate investment trust reported $3.97 earnings per share for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $3.96 by $0.01. The company had revenue of $473.30 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $472.11 million. Essex Property Trust had a net margin of 45.46% and a return on equity of 14.70%. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $3.91 earnings per share. Essex Property Trust has set its Q4 2025 guidance at 3.930-4.030 EPS. FY 2025 guidance at 15.890-15.990 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Essex Property Trust, Inc. will post 15.96 earnings per share for the current year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Wednesday, October 15th. Investors of record on Tuesday, September 30th were issued a $2.57 dividend. This represents a $10.28 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 4.1%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, September 30th. Essex Property Trusts dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 78.12%.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

ESS has been the topic of a number of recent research reports. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Essex Property Trust in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group cut their target price on Essex Property Trust from $295.00 to $267.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday, November 10th. Stifel Nicolaus increased their price objective on shares of Essex Property Trust from $301.50 to $305.50 and gave the company a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. Scotiabank dropped their target price on shares of Essex Property Trust from $294.00 to $284.00 and set a sector outperform rating on the stock in a research note on Tuesday, November 4th. Finally, Wall Street Zen upgraded shares of Essex Property Trust from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, November 8th. Seven research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $292.53.

Read Our Latest Analysis on ESS

Essex Property Trust Profile

(Free Report)

Essex Property Trust, Inc, an S&P 500 company, is a fully integrated real estate investment trust (REIT) that acquires, develops, redevelops, and manages multifamily residential properties in selected West Coast markets. Essex currently has ownership interests in 252 apartment communities comprising approximately 62,000 apartment homes with an additional property in active development.

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Greenland Capital Management LP reduced its holdings in shares of Broadstone Net Lease, Inc. (NYSE:BNL  Free Report) by 47.7% in the second quarter, Holdings Channel reports. The institutional investor owned 125,060 shares of the companys stock after selling 113,906 shares during the period. Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings in Broadstone Net Lease were worth $2,007,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. grew its stake in shares of Broadstone Net Lease by 20.6% during the 1st quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 543,987 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,270,000 after acquiring an additional 92,909 shares during the period. Allianz Asset Management GmbH boosted its position in shares of Broadstone Net Lease by 87.3% in the first quarter. Allianz Asset Management GmbH now owns 1,288,892 shares of the companys stock worth $21,963,000 after purchasing an additional 600,633 shares during the period. Universal Beteiligungs und Servicegesellschaft mbH purchased a new stake in shares of Broadstone Net Lease in the first quarter worth $6,963,000. Legato Capital Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Broadstone Net Lease by 187.6% in the first quarter. Legato Capital Management LLC now owns 105,209 shares of the companys stock worth $1,793,000 after purchasing an additional 68,624 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Cetera Investment Advisers bought a new stake in Broadstone Net Lease during the first quarter valued at about $7,259,000. Institutional investors own 89.07% of the companys stock.

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Analysts Set New Price Targets

Several analysts recently issued reports on the company. KeyCorp upgraded Broadstone Net Lease from a sector weight rating to an overweight rating and set a $20.00 target price for the company in a research report on Tuesday, August 19th. UBS Group lifted their price target on shares of Broadstone Net Lease from $16.00 to $17.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Friday, August 15th. Weiss Ratings restated a hold (c+) rating on shares of Broadstone Net Lease in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Wall Street Zen upgraded Broadstone Net Lease from a sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Finally, The Goldman Sachs Group raised shares of Broadstone Net Lease from a sell rating to a buy rating and set a $21.00 price objective for the company in a research note on Thursday, August 21st. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seven have issued a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, Broadstone Net Lease currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $19.89.

Broadstone Net Lease Trading Up 0.2%

NYSE:BNL opened at $18.24 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $3.45 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 38.80 and a beta of 1.00. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of $18.33 and a 200-day simple moving average of $17.15. Broadstone Net Lease, Inc. has a twelve month low of $13.96 and a twelve month high of $18.87.

Broadstone Net Lease (NYSE:BNL  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 29th. The company reported $0.14 earnings per share for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $0.37 by ($0.23). The company had revenue of $114.17 million for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $111.89 million. Broadstone Net Lease had a net margin of 20.04% and a return on equity of 2.91%. Broadstone Net Lease has set its FY 2025 guidance at 1.490-1.500 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts predict that Broadstone Net Lease, Inc. will post 1.43 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Broadstone Net Lease Dividend Announcement

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be issued a dividend of $0.29 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $1.16 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 6.4%. Broadstone Net Leases dividend payout ratio is 246.81%.

About Broadstone Net Lease

(Free Report)

Broadstone Net Lease, Inc (the Corporation) is a Maryland corporation formed on October 18, 2007, that elected to be taxed as a real estate investment trust (REIT) commencing with the taxable year ended December 31, 2008. Broadstone Net Lease, LLC (the Corporations operating company, or the OP), is the entity through which the Corporation conducts its business and owns (either directly or through subsidiaries) all of the Corporations properties.

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Portside Wealth Group LLC acquired a new stake in Barrick Mining Corporation (NYSE:B  Free Report) (TSE:ABX) during the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm acquired 28,149 shares of the gold and copper producers stock, valued at approximately $586,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. purchased a new position in Barrick Mining in the second quarter valued at $1,459,633,000. First Eagle Investment Management LLC acquired a new position in shares of Barrick Mining during the 2nd quarter worth about $822,056,000. TD Asset Management Inc purchased a new position in shares of Barrick Mining in the 2nd quarter valued at about $386,328,000. Ninety One UK Ltd acquired a new stake in shares of Barrick Mining during the 2nd quarter worth about $326,862,000. Finally, Geode Capital Management LLC acquired a new stake in shares of Barrick Mining during the 2nd quarter worth about $307,855,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 90.82% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of brokerages recently issued reports on B. Royal Bank Of Canada upped their price target on Barrick Mining from $38.00 to $40.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a report on Monday, October 27th. Sanford C. Bernstein restated an outperform rating on shares of Barrick Mining in a report on Wednesday, September 24th. Bank of America lifted their price target on shares of Barrick Mining from $36.00 to $38.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. UBS Group boosted their price target on shares of Barrick Mining from $35.00 to $39.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. Finally, Cibc World Mkts raised Barrick Mining from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Tuesday, August 12th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and four have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $42.90.

Barrick Mining Trading Up 2.2%

NYSE B opened at $37.78 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.14, a quick ratio of 2.53 and a current ratio of 3.21. The firm has a market cap of $63.75 billion, a PE ratio of 23.76, a P/E/G ratio of 0.40 and a beta of 0.28. Barrick Mining Corporation has a one year low of $15.11 and a one year high of $38.32. The firms fifty day moving average is $33.17 and its two-hundred day moving average is $25.78.

Barrick Mining (NYSE:B  Get Free Report) (TSE:ABX) last announced its earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The gold and copper producer reported $0.58 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.57 by $0.01. Barrick Mining had a net margin of 19.99% and a return on equity of 8.19%. The business had revenue of $4.19 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $4.20 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $0.09 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 23.2% compared to the same quarter last year. Analysts expect that Barrick Mining Corporation will post 1.47 earnings per share for the current year.

Barrick Mining Increases Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 15th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 28th will be given a dividend of $0.175 per share. This represents a $0.70 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 1.9%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 28th. This is a positive change from Barrick Minings previous quarterly dividend of $0.15. Barrick Minings payout ratio is 33.82%.

Barrick Mining Profile

(Free Report)

Barrick Gold Corporation is a sector-leading gold and copper producer. Its shares trade on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol GOLD and on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbol ABX.



In January 2019 Barrick merged with Randgold Resources and in July that year it combined its gold mines in Nevada, USA, with those of Newmont Corporation in a joint venture, Nevada Gold Mines, which is majority-owned and operated by Barrick.

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NewGen Equity Long Short Fund acquired a new stake in shares of NexGen Energy (NYSE:NXE  Free Report) in the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm acquired 1,200,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $8,328,000. NexGen Energy accounts for about 4.9% of NewGen Equity Long Short Funds investment portfolio, making the stock its 7th biggest position.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Compound Planning Inc. acquired a new stake in NexGen Energy in the first quarter worth about $46,000. PenderFund Capital Management Ltd. raised its position in shares of NexGen Energy by 45.0% in the 1st quarter. PenderFund Capital Management Ltd. now owns 11,600 shares of the companys stock valued at $52,000 after purchasing an additional 3,600 shares during the last quarter. Ground Swell Capital LLC acquired a new stake in NexGen Energy in the 1st quarter worth approximately $55,000. Canton Hathaway LLC purchased a new stake in NexGen Energy during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $57,000. Finally, Olympiad Research LP purchased a new stake in NexGen Energy during the 2nd quarter worth approximately $73,000. 42.43% of the stock is currently owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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NexGen Energy Trading Up 1.2%

NexGen Energy stock opened at $8.02 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $5.25 billion, a PE ratio of -32.06 and a beta of 1.44. NexGen Energy has a 12 month low of $3.91 and a 12 month high of $9.95. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $8.71 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $7.38.

Analysts Set New Price Targets

NexGen Energy ( NYSE:NXE Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, November 5th. The company reported ($0.03) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.02) by ($0.01). On average, equities research analysts forecast that NexGen Energy will post -0.05 EPS for the current year.

NXE has been the subject of several research reports. TD Securities reiterated a buy rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a research note on Friday, October 10th. Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a sell (d) rating on shares of NexGen Energy in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Zacks Research upgraded NexGen Energy from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, October 13th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have issued a Buy rating, one has issued a Hold rating and one has issued a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat, NexGen Energy presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on NexGen Energy

NexGen Energy Company Profile

(Free Report)

NexGen Energy Ltd., an exploration and development stage company, engages in the acquisition, exploration, and evaluation and development of uranium properties in Canada. It holds a 100% interest in the Rook I project that consists of 32 contiguous mineral claims totaling an area of 35,065 hectares located in the southwestern Athabasca Basin of Saskatchewan.

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Pineridge Advisors LLC decreased its position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (NYSEARCA:XFIV  Free Report) by 80.7% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 1,284 shares of the companys stock after selling 5,372 shares during the quarter. Pineridge Advisors LLCs holdings in BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF were worth $63,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also bought and sold shares of the company. Belpointe Asset Management LLC raised its position in BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 4.4% in the second quarter. Belpointe Asset Management LLC now owns 6,507 shares of the companys stock valued at $321,000 after purchasing an additional 276 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC increased its position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 7.3% during the 1st quarter. CWM LLC now owns 8,225 shares of the companys stock valued at $404,000 after purchasing an additional 559 shares during the last quarter. Beacon Capital Management LLC grew its position in shares of BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 11,237.5% in the 2nd quarter. Beacon Capital Management LLC now owns 907 shares of the companys stock worth $45,000 after buying an additional 899 shares during the period. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC lifted its stake in BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 2.7% during the 2nd quarter. Janney Montgomery Scott LLC now owns 41,586 shares of the companys stock valued at $2,052,000 after acquiring an additional 1,083 shares during the period. Finally, Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC grew its holdings in BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF by 3.3% during the second quarter. Wealthcare Advisory Partners LLC now owns 35,256 shares of the companys stock valued at $1,740,000 after purchasing an additional 1,127 shares during the period.

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BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Stock Performance

Shares of XFIV stock opened at $49.65 on Wednesday. BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF has a 1 year low of $47.43 and a 1 year high of $50.00. The stocks 50 day simple moving average is $49.67 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $49.24.

BondBloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF Profile

The Bondbloxx Bloomberg Five Year Target Duration US Treasury ETF (XFIV) is an exchange-traded fund that mostly invests in investment grade fixed income. The fund is passively managed to invest in a portfolio of US Treasury securities with a target duration of five years. XFIV was launched on Sep 13, 2022 and is managed by BondBloxx.

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Heritage Wealth Advisors grew its stake in Duke Energy Corporation (NYSE:DUK  Free Report) by 0.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The fund owned 324,842 shares of the utilities providers stock after acquiring an additional 750 shares during the period. Duke Energy accounts for about 1.8% of Heritage Wealth Advisors investment portfolio, making the stock its 19th biggest position. Heritage Wealth Advisors holdings in Duke Energy were worth $38,331,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of the stock. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its position in Duke Energy by 1.5% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 75,716,783 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $8,934,580,000 after buying an additional 1,154,783 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC boosted its holdings in Duke Energy by 1.7% in the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 18,684,447 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $2,205,070,000 after acquiring an additional 319,001 shares during the last quarter. GQG Partners LLC increased its position in Duke Energy by 17,880.0% in the first quarter. GQG Partners LLC now owns 10,249,508 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,250,133,000 after purchasing an additional 10,192,503 shares during the period. Royal Bank of Canada raised its holdings in Duke Energy by 4.9% during the 1st quarter. Royal Bank of Canada now owns 8,921,517 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,088,158,000 after purchasing an additional 418,014 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. lifted its position in Duke Energy by 1.1% during the 1st quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 8,656,244 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $1,055,087,000 after purchasing an additional 93,699 shares during the period. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 65.31% of the companys stock.

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Duke Energy Trading Down 1.0%

NYSE DUK opened at $123.88 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.55, a current ratio of 0.66 and a quick ratio of 0.42. The stocks 50-day moving average is $124.33 and its 200-day moving average is $120.95. Duke Energy Corporation has a one year low of $105.20 and a one year high of $130.03. The firm has a market cap of $96.33 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.14, a P/E/G ratio of 3.05 and a beta of 0.45.

Duke Energy Announces Dividend

Duke Energy ( NYSE:DUK Get Free Report ) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, November 6th. The utilities provider reported $1.81 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.75 by $0.06. Duke Energy had a return on equity of 9.85% and a net margin of 15.51%.The business had revenue of $8.54 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $8.51 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the business earned $1.62 EPS. Duke Energys revenue for the quarter was up 4.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Sell-side analysts anticipate that Duke Energy Corporation will post 6.33 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 16th. Investors of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $1.065 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $4.26 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 3.4%. Duke Energys dividend payout ratio is presently 66.98%.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts have recently commented on the stock. BMO Capital Markets lowered their price target on shares of Duke Energy from $138.00 to $136.00 in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Duke Energy in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Cowen started coverage on Duke Energy in a report on Wednesday, October 15th. They issued a buy rating for the company. Morgan Stanley raised their target price on Duke Energy from $127.00 to $136.00 and gave the stock an outperform rating in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, UBS Group upped their price target on Duke Energy from $131.00 to $137.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 10th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, twelve have assigned a Buy rating and six have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat, Duke Energy presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $138.63.

View Our Latest Stock Analysis on DUK

About Duke Energy

(Free Report)

Duke Energy Corporation, together with its subsidiaries, operates as an energy company in the United States. It operates through two segments: Electric Utilities and Infrastructure (EU&I), and Gas Utilities and Infrastructure (GU&I). The EU&I segment generates, transmits, distributes, and sells electricity in the Carolinas, Florida, and the Midwest.

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Greenland Capital Management LP decreased its holdings in shares of Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated (NYSE:PEG  Free Report) by 63.3% in the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The fund owned 20,577 shares of the utilities providers stock after selling 35,448 shares during the period. Greenland Capital Management LPs holdings in Public Service Enterprise Group were worth $1,732,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of PEG. OneAscent Financial Services LLC boosted its stake in Public Service Enterprise Group by 82.8% in the first quarter. OneAscent Financial Services LLC now owns 6,686 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $554,000 after acquiring an additional 3,029 shares during the period. IFP Advisors Inc grew its stake in Public Service Enterprise Group by 4.3% during the 1st quarter. IFP Advisors Inc now owns 18,095 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,489,000 after buying an additional 754 shares during the last quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. increased its position in Public Service Enterprise Group by 8.0% in the first quarter. J.W. Cole Advisors Inc. now owns 18,544 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $1,526,000 after buying an additional 1,371 shares during the period. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky increased its position in Public Service Enterprise Group by 4.4% in the first quarter. Teachers Retirement System of The State of Kentucky now owns 38,476 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $3,166,000 after buying an additional 1,627 shares during the period. Finally, Crestwood Advisors Group LLC boosted its holdings in shares of Public Service Enterprise Group by 7.9% during the first quarter. Crestwood Advisors Group LLC now owns 4,372 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $360,000 after acquiring an additional 321 shares during the period. 73.34% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Public Service Enterprise Group Stock Down 0.1%

NYSE PEG opened at $82.41 on Wednesday. Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated has a 12 month low of $74.67 and a 12 month high of $95.22. The company has a market capitalization of $41.13 billion, a P/E ratio of 20.81, a PEG ratio of 2.46 and a beta of 0.55. The companys 50 day simple moving average is $82.26 and its 200 day simple moving average is $82.46. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.30, a current ratio of 1.00 and a quick ratio of 0.76.

Public Service Enterprise Group Announces Dividend

Public Service Enterprise Group ( NYSE:PEG Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The utilities provider reported $1.13 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $1.02 by $0.11. Public Service Enterprise Group had a net margin of 17.78% and a return on equity of 12.08%. The firm had revenue of $3.23 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $2.80 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the business posted $0.90 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up 22.1% compared to the same quarter last year. Public Service Enterprise Group has set its FY 2025 guidance at 4.000-4.060 EPS. Equities research analysts expect that Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated will post 3.67 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 31st. Shareholders of record on Wednesday, December 10th will be issued a dividend of $0.63 per share. This represents a $2.52 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.1%. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 10th. Public Service Enterprise Groups payout ratio is presently 60.58%.

Insider Activity at Public Service Enterprise Group

In other news, SVP Richard T. Thigpen sold 4,920 shares of Public Service Enterprise Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Friday, November 7th. The shares were sold at an average price of $82.33, for a total value of $405,063.60. Following the transaction, the senior vice president directly owned 26,134 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,151,612.22. This trade represents a 15.84% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. 0.19% of the stock is currently owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Barclays increased their price objective on shares of Public Service Enterprise Group from $82.00 to $87.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Evercore ISI began coverage on Public Service Enterprise Group in a research note on Tuesday, October 7th. They set an in-line rating and a $83.00 target price on the stock. Jefferies Financial Group raised Public Service Enterprise Group from a hold rating to a buy rating and raised their price target for the company from $89.00 to $90.00 in a report on Thursday, November 6th. UBS Group upped their price objective on shares of Public Service Enterprise Group from $97.00 to $103.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a report on Friday, July 25th. Finally, BTIG Research began coverage on shares of Public Service Enterprise Group in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. They set a buy rating and a $98.00 target price on the stock. Eight equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and six have issued a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $91.19.

Check Out Our Latest Stock Analysis on PEG

About Public Service Enterprise Group

(Free Report)

Public Service Enterprise Group Incorporated, through its subsidiaries, operates in electric and gas utility business in the United States. It operates through PSE&G and PSEG Power segments. The PSE&G segment transmits electricity; distributes electricity and natural gas to residential, commercial, and industrial customers; and appliance services and repairs to customers through its service territory, as well as invests in solar generation projects, and energy efficiency and related programs.

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OR Royalties Inc. (NYSE:OR  Free Report)  Raymond James Financial increased their Q1 2026 earnings per share (EPS) estimates for OR Royalties in a research report issued to clients and investors on Monday, November 17th. Raymond James Financial analyst B. Macarthur now expects that the basic materials company will earn $0.24 per share for the quarter, up from their previous forecast of $0.23. Raymond James Financial has a Outperform rating and a $41.00 price target on the stock. The consensus estimate for OR Royalties current full-year earnings is $0.62 per share. Raymond James Financial also issued estimates for OR Royalties Q4 2026 earnings at $0.26 EPS and FY2026 earnings at $1.00 EPS.

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OR Royalties (NYSE:OR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 5th. The basic materials company reported $0.22 EPS for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.19 by $0.03. The business had revenue of $71.63 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $53.85 million. OR Royalties had a net margin of 35.25% and a return on equity of 8.56%.

Several other research firms also recently commented on OR. Jefferies Financial Group reaffirmed a hold rating and issued a $40.00 price objective (up previously from $34.00) on shares of OR Royalties in a research note on Monday, October 6th. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of OR Royalties in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Scotiabank lowered OR Royalties from an outperform rating to a sector perform rating and raised their price objective for the company from $33.00 to $41.00 in a research report on Thursday, October 23rd. Wall Street Zen raised shares of OR Royalties from a hold rating to a buy rating in a report on Saturday, October 4th. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group raised OR Royalties from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, five have given a Buy rating and two have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has a consensus rating of Buy and an average target price of $36.25.

Get Our Latest Analysis on OR

OR Royalties Price Performance

OR opened at $32.45 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.03, a quick ratio of 4.73 and a current ratio of 4.73. OR Royalties has a 52-week low of $17.55 and a 52-week high of $42.25. The stock has a market capitalization of $6.11 billion, a P/E ratio of 87.70 and a beta of 0.72. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $35.66 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $30.39.

Institutional Trading of OR Royalties

Several large investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Caitlin John LLC acquired a new position in shares of OR Royalties in the 3rd quarter valued at about $78,000. Plato Investment Management Ltd acquired a new position in shares of OR Royalties in the first quarter worth about $56,000. Summit Securities Group LLC purchased a new position in OR Royalties during the first quarter worth approximately $62,000. Eagle Global Advisors LLC acquired a new position in OR Royalties during the third quarter worth $206,000. Finally, Merit Financial Group LLC acquired a new position in OR Royalties in the 3rd quarter valued at $215,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.52% of the companys stock.

OR Royalties Announces Dividend

The business also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 15th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, December 31st will be issued a dividend of $0.055 per share. The ex-dividend date is Wednesday, December 31st. This represents a $0.22 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 0.7%. OR Royaltiess dividend payout ratio is 29.73%.

About OR Royalties

(Get Free Report)

Osisko Gold Royalties Ltd acquires and manages precious metal and other royalties, streams, and other interests in Canada and internationally. It also owns options on offtake; royalty/stream financings; and exclusive rights to participate in future royalty/stream financings on various projects. The companys primary asset is a 3-5% net smelter return royalty on the Canadian Malartic complex located in Canada.

Further Reading

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Peter Thiel is a long-time financial backer of Donald Trump - Eva Marie Uzcategui/Bloomberg

Peter Thiel, the billionaire tech investor and PayPal investor, has sold his entire stake in Nvidia as fears mount over an artificial intelligence bubble.

Thiel Macro, his hedge fund, sold its $100m (76m) stake in the chipmaking giant during the three months to September, according to a US filing.

It comes days after the Japanese investment company SoftBank said it had sold off its entire stake in Nvidia, valued at $5.8bn.

Nvidia, whose chips are crucial to training and running AI systems such as ChatGPT, became the first company to hit a $5tn valuation last month, but shares have since fallen as investors have wavered over the companys future.

The company is scheduled to unveil third-quarter results on Wednesday in what is likely to be a pivotal moment for investors watching for signs that the AI boom is running out of steam.

Thiel Macro, the billionaires personal hedge fund, now consists of stakes in Tesla, Microsoft and Apple, although it has also sold the majority of its Tesla shareholding in recent months.

Mr Thiel, 58, is best known for founding PayPal and Palantir, and making a series of early bets on companies including Facebook.

He was a supporter of Donald Trumps 2016 presidential campaign, and lobbied for JD Vance to become his running mate last year.

Mr Thiel told a conference last year that AI is like the internet in 1999, referring to the period where there was a stock market bubble and massive investment that did not pay off for more than a decade.

He also said: A year ago, two years ago, in retrospect Nvidia would have been a good buy. At this point, its too obvious that theyre making too much money.

Nvidia shares fell by more than 2pc as Wall Street opened on Monday, and have fallen more than 12pc since their high last month.

Meanwhile, shares in Googles parent company Alphabet rose by more than 5pc after it emerged that Warren Buffetts investment giant Berkshire Hathaway had bought a $4.3bn stake.

Mr Buffett, who plans to retire at the end of the year, has traditionally avoided technology companies with the exception of a lucrative bet on Apple.

On Friday, Berkshire revealed that it had continued to sell down its Apple stake, selling $11bn worth of shares in the third quarter.

Alphabet shares have risen more than 50pc this year as it has shrugged off fears its search engine would be made obsolete by chatbots like ChatGPT and the companys own AI systems have proved popular.

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Westwood Holdings Group (NYSE:WHG  Get Free Report) and Eagle Point Credit (NYSE:ECC  Get Free Report) are both small-cap finance companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their analyst recommendations, earnings, dividends, valuation, risk, profitability and institutional ownership.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Westwood Holdings Group and Eagle Point Credits top-line revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Westwood Holdings Group $96.24 million 1.56 $2.21 million $0.82 19.43 Eagle Point Credit $179.77 million 3.95 $85.49 million $0.19 29.55

Analyst Recommendations

Eagle Point Credit has higher revenue and earnings than Westwood Holdings Group. Westwood Holdings Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Eagle Point Credit, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

This is a summary of recent ratings and target prices for Westwood Holdings Group and Eagle Point Credit, as reported by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Westwood Holdings Group 0 0 1 0 3.00 Eagle Point Credit 0 2 3 1 2.83

Eagle Point Credit has a consensus target price of $8.21, suggesting a potential upside of 46.19%. Given Eagle Point Credits higher possible upside, analysts plainly believe Eagle Point Credit is more favorable than Westwood Holdings Group.

Profitability

This table compares Westwood Holdings Group and Eagle Point Credits net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Westwood Holdings Group 3.92% 5.19% 4.33% Eagle Point Credit 12.33% 13.53% 8.26%

Insider and Institutional Ownership

56.6% of Westwood Holdings Group shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 19.5% of Eagle Point Credit shares are owned by institutional investors. 8.2% of Westwood Holdings Group shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 0.2% of Eagle Point Credit shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that endowments, large money managers and hedge funds believe a company will outperform the market over the long term.

Risk and Volatility

Westwood Holdings Group has a beta of 0.95, meaning that its stock price is 5% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Eagle Point Credit has a beta of 0.37, meaning that its stock price is 63% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Dividends

Westwood Holdings Group pays an annual dividend of $0.60 per share and has a dividend yield of 3.8%. Eagle Point Credit pays an annual dividend of $1.68 per share and has a dividend yield of 29.9%. Westwood Holdings Group pays out 73.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Eagle Point Credit pays out 884.2% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future.

Summary

Eagle Point Credit beats Westwood Holdings Group on 10 of the 17 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Westwood Holdings Group

(Get Free Report)

Westwood Holdings Group, Inc., through its subsidiaries, manages investment assets and provides services for its clients. The company operates in two segments, Advisory and Trust. The Advisory segment provides investment advisory services to corporate retirement plans, public retirement plans, endowments, foundations, individuals, and the Westwood Funds; and investment sub-advisory services to mutual funds, pooled investment vehicles, and its Trust segment. The Trust segment offers trust and custodial services; and participates in common trust funds that it sponsors to institutions and high net worth individuals. Westwood Holdings Group, Inc. was founded in 1983 and is based in Dallas, Texas.

About Eagle Point Credit

(Get Free Report)

Eagle Point Credit Company Inc. is a closed ended fund launched and managed by Eagle Point Credit Management LLC. It invests in fixed income markets of the United States. The fund invests equity and junior debt tranches of collateralized loan obligations consisting primarily of below investment grade U.S. senior secured loans. Eagle Point Credit Company Inc. was formed on March 24, 2014 and is domiciled in the United States.

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Stonebrook Private Inc. lifted its stake in Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Free Report) by 1.6% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm owned 3,251 shares of the companys stock after acquiring an additional 52 shares during the period. Stonebrook Private Inc.s holdings in Eli Lilly and Company were worth $2,534,000 as of its most recent filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

A number of other hedge funds have also made changes to their positions in the stock. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 97.5% during the 1st quarter. PNC Financial Services Group Inc. now owns 101,305,650 shares of the companys stock valued at $83,669,349,000 after purchasing an additional 50,002,551 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its holdings in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 1.5% in the second quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 80,407,430 shares of the companys stock valued at $62,680,004,000 after buying an additional 1,183,038 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 0.6% during the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 12,707,512 shares of the companys stock valued at $10,495,261,000 after acquiring an additional 81,587 shares during the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Eli Lilly and Company by 13.3% during the 1st quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 5,821,993 shares of the companys stock worth $4,808,443,000 after acquiring an additional 682,203 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in shares of Eli Lilly and Company in the 1st quarter worth $4,613,912,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 82.53% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

LLY has been the subject of several analyst reports. Loop Capital set a $950.00 target price on Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Monday, November 10th. Scotiabank began coverage on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. They set a sector outperform rating and a $1,165.00 price objective for the company. CICC Research lifted their target price on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $801.00 to $1,060.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. Sanford C. Bernstein restated an outperform rating on shares of Eli Lilly and Company in a report on Monday, November 3rd. Finally, UBS Group raised their price objective on shares of Eli Lilly and Company from $895.00 to $1,080.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Friday, November 7th. Three analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fifteen have assigned a Buy rating and seven have assigned a Hold rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Eli Lilly and Company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of $1,020.37.

Eli Lilly and Company Price Performance

Shares of NYSE:LLY opened at $1,030.49 on Wednesday. The firm has a market cap of $974.21 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 67.35, a P/E/G ratio of 1.21 and a beta of 0.43. Eli Lilly and Company has a 1 year low of $623.78 and a 1 year high of $1,040.72. The company has a current ratio of 1.28, a quick ratio of 1.00 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.86. The business has a fifty day simple moving average of $838.20 and a 200 day simple moving average of $782.36.

Eli Lilly and Company (NYSE:LLY  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The company reported $7.02 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $6.42 by $0.60. The company had revenue of $17.60 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $16.09 billion. Eli Lilly and Company had a return on equity of 92.72% and a net margin of 25.91%.The businesss revenue was up 53.9% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same period in the prior year, the firm posted $1.18 EPS. Eli Lilly and Company has set its FY 2025 guidance at 23.000-23.700 EPS. As a group, sell-side analysts predict that Eli Lilly and Company will post 23.48 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Eli Lilly and Company Announces Dividend

The firm also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Wednesday, December 10th. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 14th will be paid a $1.50 dividend. The ex-dividend date is Friday, November 14th. This represents a $6.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 0.6%. Eli Lilly and Companys payout ratio is 29.35%.

About Eli Lilly and Company

(Free Report)

Eli Lilly and Company discovers, develops, and markets human pharmaceuticals worldwide. The company offers Basaglar, Humalog, Humalog Mix 75/25, Humalog U-100, Humalog U-200, Humalog Mix 50/50, insulin lispro, insulin lispro protamine, insulin lispro mix 75/25, Humulin, Humulin 70/30, Humulin N, Humulin R, and Humulin U-500 for diabetes; Jardiance, Mounjaro, and Trulicity for type 2 diabetes; and Zepbound for obesity.

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Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new stake in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras SA (NYSE:EBR  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The firm bought 10,017 shares of the utilities providers stock, valued at approximately $74,000.

Several other institutional investors and hedge funds have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. American Century Companies Inc. grew its holdings in shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 18.6% in the 1st quarter. American Century Companies Inc. now owns 683,401 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $4,852,000 after acquiring an additional 107,297 shares in the last quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. grew its stake in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 92.0% in the first quarter. Goldman Sachs Group Inc. now owns 658,681 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $4,677,000 after purchasing an additional 315,607 shares in the last quarter. Kapitalo Investimentos Ltda grew its stake in Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 3,872.3% in the first quarter. Kapitalo Investimentos Ltda now owns 588,811 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $4,181,000 after purchasing an additional 573,988 shares in the last quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC increased its position in shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 105.3% during the 1st quarter. Cubist Systematic Strategies LLC now owns 563,836 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $4,003,000 after purchasing an additional 289,184 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Amundi raised its stake in shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras by 178.6% during the 1st quarter. Amundi now owns 384,858 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,821,000 after purchasing an additional 246,722 shares in the last quarter. 2.64% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of equities analysts recently weighed in on the stock. Scotiabank upgraded shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras to a strong-buy rating in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Wall Street Zen raised shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras from a hold rating to a buy rating in a research report on Saturday, November 8th. Finally, Weiss Ratings cut shares of Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras from a hold (c) rating to a sell (d+) rating in a report on Friday, November 7th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company presently has an average rating of Moderate Buy.

Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras Price Performance

NYSE:EBR opened at $11.10 on Wednesday. The company has a market cap of $24.97 billion, a P/E ratio of 21.34 and a beta of 0.62. The firms fifty day moving average price is $9.97 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $8.37. Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras SA has a one year low of $5.45 and a one year high of $11.27. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.50, a current ratio of 1.86 and a quick ratio of 1.85.

Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras Dividend Announcement

The business also recently declared a special dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 29th. Shareholders of record on Monday, November 17th will be issued a $0.3525 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Monday, November 17th. Centrais El?tricas Brasileirass dividend payout ratio is currently 123.08%.

About Centrais El?tricas Brasileiras

(Free Report)

Centrais Eletricas Brasileiras SA  Eletrobras, through its subsidiaries, engages in the generation, transmission, and commercialization of electricity in Brazil. The company generates electricity through hydroelectric, thermoelectric, nuclear, wind, and solar plants. As of December 31, 2023, it owned and operated 44 hydroelectric plants with a total capacity of 42,293.5 megawatt (MW); 5 thermal plants, including coal and gas power generation units with a total installed capacity of 1,632 MW; and two nuclear power plants comprising Angra 1 with an installed capacity of 657 MW and Angra 2 with an installed capacity of 1350 MW.

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Vise Technologies Inc. purchased a new stake in shares of Kosmos Energy Ltd. (NYSE:KOS  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to its most recent disclosure with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 53,894 shares of the oil and gas producers stock, valued at approximately $93,000.

Other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Cerity Partners LLC grew its holdings in shares of Kosmos Energy by 17.0% during the first quarter. Cerity Partners LLC now owns 45,840 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $105,000 after purchasing an additional 6,649 shares during the last quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC lifted its position in Kosmos Energy by 34.1% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Personalized Indexing Management LLC now owns 27,089 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $47,000 after buying an additional 6,888 shares in the last quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. grew its holdings in Kosmos Energy by 3.6% during the 1st quarter. Moors & Cabot Inc. now owns 217,450 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $496,000 after acquiring an additional 7,500 shares during the last quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio increased its position in Kosmos Energy by 53.2% in the 2nd quarter. Public Employees Retirement System of Ohio now owns 24,103 shares of the oil and gas producers stock valued at $41,000 after acquiring an additional 8,371 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Park Avenue Securities LLC raised its stake in shares of Kosmos Energy by 43.4% in the second quarter. Park Avenue Securities LLC now owns 39,364 shares of the oil and gas producers stock worth $68,000 after acquiring an additional 11,916 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 95.33% of the companys stock.

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Kosmos Energy Price Performance

Shares of KOS stock opened at $1.36 on Wednesday. The firms 50 day moving average price is $1.60 and its two-hundred day moving average price is $1.79. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.56, a quick ratio of 0.25 and a current ratio of 0.45. Kosmos Energy Ltd. has a 52-week low of $1.34 and a 52-week high of $4.13. The stock has a market cap of $648.13 million, a PE ratio of -4.11 and a beta of 1.44.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Kosmos Energy ( NYSE:KOS Get Free Report ) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, November 3rd. The oil and gas producer reported ($0.15) earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.13) by ($0.02). Kosmos Energy had a negative net margin of 10.74% and a negative return on equity of 14.16%. The company had revenue of $311.23 million during the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $360.82 million. As a group, analysts forecast that Kosmos Energy Ltd. will post 0.42 EPS for the current year.

KOS has been the subject of a number of research reports. The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a neutral rating and issued a $2.00 price target (down previously from $3.00) on shares of Kosmos Energy in a report on Monday, September 22nd. Stephens started coverage on Kosmos Energy in a research report on Tuesday, November 11th. They issued an equal weight rating and a $1.75 price objective on the stock. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d-) rating on shares of Kosmos Energy in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. Clarkson Capital began coverage on Kosmos Energy in a research note on Friday, October 24th. They set a buy rating and a $4.00 price target on the stock. Finally, Mizuho decreased their price target on Kosmos Energy from $3.00 to $2.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday, September 15th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, four have assigned a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Kosmos Energy presently has an average rating of Hold and an average price target of $3.07.

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Kosmos Energy Profile

(Free Report)

Kosmos Energy Ltd., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the exploration, development, and production of oil and gas along the Atlantic Margins in the United States. The companys primary assets include production projects located in offshore Ghana, Equatorial Guinea, and the U.S. Gulf of Mexico, as well as gas projects located in offshore Mauritania and Senegal.

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Vise Technologies Inc. bought a new position in shares of UWM Holdings Corporation (NYSE:UWMC  Free Report) in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm bought 36,980 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $153,000.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also modified their holdings of UWMC. Cerity Partners LLC bought a new position in UWM in the 1st quarter valued at about $342,000. Arizona State Retirement System grew its position in shares of UWM by 37.5% in the first quarter. Arizona State Retirement System now owns 36,236 shares of the companys stock valued at $198,000 after purchasing an additional 9,874 shares during the last quarter. CWM LLC grew its position in shares of UWM by 865.2% in the first quarter. CWM LLC now owns 115,764 shares of the companys stock valued at $632,000 after purchasing an additional 103,770 shares during the last quarter. Signaturefd LLC increased its stake in shares of UWM by 135.4% during the first quarter. Signaturefd LLC now owns 8,159 shares of the companys stock worth $45,000 after purchasing an additional 4,693 shares during the period. Finally, Victory Capital Management Inc. lifted its holdings in UWM by 1,773.5% during the 1st quarter. Victory Capital Management Inc. now owns 380,875 shares of the companys stock worth $2,080,000 after purchasing an additional 360,545 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 53.59% of the companys stock.

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UWM Stock Up 1.6%

UWMC stock opened at $4.98 on Wednesday. UWM Holdings Corporation has a 52 week low of $3.80 and a 52 week high of $7.14. The business has a 50-day simple moving average of $5.82 and a 200 day simple moving average of $5.00. The company has a quick ratio of 1.55, a current ratio of 1.55 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.85. The company has a market cap of $7.96 billion, a PE ratio of -99.52 and a beta of 1.79.

UWM Announces Dividend

UWM ( NYSE:UWMC Get Free Report ) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported $0.01 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.07 by ($0.06). The firm had revenue of $151.14 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $651.51 million. UWM had a negative return on equity of 5.56% and a net margin of 0.48%. Sell-side analysts anticipate that UWM Holdings Corporation will post 0.2 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Thursday, January 8th. Shareholders of record on Thursday, December 18th will be given a dividend of $0.10 per share. This represents a $0.40 annualized dividend and a yield of 8.0%. The ex-dividend date is Thursday, December 18th.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other UWM news, CEO Ishbia Mat sold 596,356 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, September 17th. The stock was sold at an average price of $6.81, for a total value of $4,061,184.36. Following the sale, the chief executive officer owned 6,108,716 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $41,600,355.96. This trade represents a 8.89% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the SEC, which can be accessed through the SEC website. Insiders have sold 19,701,956 shares of company stock worth $114,994,356 in the last three months. 94.11% of the stock is owned by insiders.

Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

Several research analysts have weighed in on UWMC shares. Barclays increased their price objective on UWM from $6.00 to $7.00 and gave the stock an overweight rating in a research report on Monday, October 6th. Weiss Ratings restated a sell (d+) rating on shares of UWM in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. UBS Group lifted their price objective on shares of UWM from $5.50 to $6.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Wednesday, November 12th. Zacks Research raised shares of UWM from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Tuesday, October 7th. Finally, Wall Street Zen lowered shares of UWM from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research report on Saturday. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, six have issued a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $6.54.

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About UWM

(Free Report)

UWM Holdings Corporation engages in the residential mortgage lending business in the United States. The company offers mortgage loans through wholesale channel. It originates primarily conforming and government loans. UWM Holdings Corporation was founded in 1986 and is headquartered in Pontiac, Michigan.

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Vise Technologies Inc. purchased a new position in shares of Everest Group, Ltd. (NYSE:EG  Free Report) during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission. The firm purchased 602 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $205,000.

A number of other institutional investors and hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in EG. Nuveen LLC purchased a new position in shares of Everest Group during the first quarter worth approximately $137,418,000. Vulcan Value Partners LLC boosted its stake in Everest Group by 35.8% during the 1st quarter. Vulcan Value Partners LLC now owns 1,328,732 shares of the companys stock worth $482,832,000 after purchasing an additional 350,019 shares during the period. VIRGINIA RETIREMENT SYSTEMS ET Al purchased a new position in Everest Group during the 2nd quarter worth $28,785,000. Amundi increased its stake in Everest Group by 72.6% in the first quarter. Amundi now owns 180,484 shares of the companys stock valued at $65,292,000 after purchasing an additional 75,920 shares during the period. Finally, Russell Investments Group Ltd. increased its stake in Everest Group by 183.4% in the first quarter. Russell Investments Group Ltd. now owns 112,345 shares of the companys stock valued at $40,716,000 after purchasing an additional 72,709 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.64% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of equities analysts recently issued reports on EG shares. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price target on Everest Group from $383.00 to $343.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a report on Wednesday, October 29th. Cowen reaffirmed a hold rating on shares of Everest Group in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Raymond James Financial reiterated an outperform rating and issued a $350.00 target price on shares of Everest Group in a research note on Monday, November 3rd. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Everest Group in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Finally, Citigroup started coverage on Everest Group in a research note on Wednesday, August 13th. They set a neutral rating and a $362.00 price target for the company. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and ten have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average price target of $368.77.

Everest Group Stock Performance

NYSE EG opened at $320.03 on Wednesday. The stock has a market capitalization of $13.43 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 24.37, a PEG ratio of 0.25 and a beta of 0.48. The businesss 50 day moving average is $338.31 and its two-hundred day moving average is $338.68. Everest Group, Ltd. has a 12-month low of $302.44 and a 12-month high of $392.78. The company has a current ratio of 0.38, a quick ratio of 0.38 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24.

Everest Group (NYSE:EG  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Monday, October 27th. The company reported $7.54 earnings per share for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $13.39 by ($5.85). Everest Group had a net margin of 3.12% and a return on equity of 3.81%. The business had revenue of $4.32 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.86 billion. During the same quarter last year, the firm earned $11.80 earnings per share. The firms quarterly revenue was up .8% compared to the same quarter last year. Research analysts expect that Everest Group, Ltd. will post 47.93 EPS for the current year.

Everest Group Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 12th. Stockholders of record on Wednesday, November 26th will be paid a dividend of $2.00 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Wednesday, November 26th. This represents a $8.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a dividend yield of 2.5%. Everest Groups dividend payout ratio is 60.93%.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, Director Allan Levine purchased 3,100 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was acquired at an average price of $306.08 per share, for a total transaction of $948,848.00. Following the acquisition, the director directly owned 4,153 shares of the companys stock, valued at $1,271,150.24. This trade represents a 294.40% increase in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available through the SEC website. Also, Director William F. Galtney, Jr. acquired 11,385 shares of Everest Group stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 29th. The stock was bought at an average price of $307.38 per share, with a total value of $3,499,521.30. Following the purchase, the director directly owned 45,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $13,983,023.58. This trade represents a 33.38% increase in their ownership of the stock. The disclosure for this purchase is available in the SEC filing. Corporate insiders own 1.10% of the companys stock.

Everest Group Company Profile

(Free Report)

Everest Group, Ltd., through its subsidiaries, provides reinsurance and insurance products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company operates through two segment, Insurance and Reinsurance. The Reinsurance segment writes property and casualty reinsurance; and specialty lines of business through reinsurance brokers, as well as directly with ceding companies in the United States, Bermuda, Ireland, Canada, Singapore, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

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Shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) Corp. (NYSE:LAR  Get Free Report) gapped up prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $4.47, but opened at $4.70. Lithium Americas (Argentina) shares last traded at $4.95, with a volume of 4,111,052 shares.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities analysts have issued reports on LAR shares. National Bank Financial upgraded Lithium Americas (Argentina) from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday, August 11th. Zacks Research upgraded shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research note on Monday, September 15th. Weiss Ratings reissued a sell (d) rating on shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. BMO Capital Markets upped their price objective on shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) from $2.50 to $4.00 and gave the stock a market perform rating in a report on Tuesday, August 12th. Finally, National Bankshares raised shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) from a sector perform rating to an outperform rating and raised their target price for the company from $2.90 to $4.50 in a research note on Tuesday, August 12th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, one has assigned a Buy rating, three have issued a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $4.25.

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Read Our Latest Stock Report on Lithium Americas (Argentina)

Lithium Americas (Argentina) Stock Performance

The companys 50-day moving average is $4.02 and its 200 day moving average is $3.03. The company has a market capitalization of $782.29 million and a PE ratio of -9.64.

Lithium Americas (Argentina) (NYSE:LAR  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Monday, November 10th. The company reported ($0.02) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of ($0.01) by ($0.01). On average, analysts forecast that Lithium Americas will post -0.05 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Lithium Americas (Argentina)

Several hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in LAR. Van ECK Associates Corp boosted its stake in Lithium Americas (Argentina) by 119.3% during the 3rd quarter. Van ECK Associates Corp now owns 9,594,157 shares of the companys stock valued at $32,045,000 after purchasing an additional 5,219,416 shares during the last quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. lifted its holdings in shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) by 9.3% during the second quarter. MIRAE ASSET GLOBAL ETFS HOLDINGS Ltd. now owns 4,786,166 shares of the companys stock valued at $9,975,000 after purchasing an additional 408,065 shares in the last quarter. CenterBook Partners LP boosted its position in shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) by 102.1% during the third quarter. CenterBook Partners LP now owns 4,200,238 shares of the companys stock valued at $14,029,000 after buying an additional 2,122,035 shares during the last quarter. Hancock Prospecting Pty Ltd purchased a new stake in shares of Lithium Americas (Argentina) during the first quarter valued at $5,368,000. Finally, Invesco Ltd. increased its holdings in Lithium Americas (Argentina) by 6.1% in the 3rd quarter. Invesco Ltd. now owns 2,332,308 shares of the companys stock worth $7,790,000 after buying an additional 133,572 shares in the last quarter. 49.17% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

Lithium Americas (Argentina) Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Lithium Argentina AG, a resource and materials company, focuses on advancing lithium projects in Argentina. The company owns interests in the Cauchari-Olaroz project located in Jujuy province; and the Pastos Grandes project located in Salta Province of Argentina. The company was formerly known as Lithium Americas (Argentina) Corp.

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Shares of Lenovo Group Ltd. (OTCMKTS:LNVGY  Get Free Report) gapped down prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $26.98, but opened at $25.42. Lenovo Group shares last traded at $25.97, with a volume of 16,348 shares changing hands.

Lenovo Group Stock Performance

The company has a current ratio of 0.95, a quick ratio of 0.67 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.59. The company has a market cap of $15.44 billion, a P/E ratio of 9.96, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.55 and a beta of 0.71. The company has a 50 day moving average price of $29.53 and a 200-day moving average price of $26.99.

About Lenovo Group

(Get Free Report)

Lenovo Group Limited, an investment holding company, develops, manufactures, and markets technology products and services. It operates through Intelligent Devices Group, Infrastructure Solutions Group, and Solutions and Services Group segments. The company offers commercial and consumer personal computers, as well as servers and workstations; and a family of mobile Internet devices, including tablets and smartphones.

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC lifted its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF (NYSEARCA:VGK  Free Report) by 396.6% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel reports. The fund owned 286,190 shares of the exchange traded funds stock after purchasing an additional 228,560 shares during the period. Wealthspire Advisors LLCs holdings in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF were worth $22,180,000 at the end of the most recent reporting period.

Other institutional investors have also recently modified their holdings of the company. JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased its stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 32.8% in the 1st quarter. JPMorgan Chase & Co. now owns 35,505,505 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $2,492,843,000 after purchasing an additional 8,767,138 shares in the last quarter. Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan boosted its position in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 37.3% during the second quarter. Municipal Employees Retirement System of Michigan now owns 8,835,451 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $684,747,000 after purchasing an additional 2,400,165 shares in the last quarter. Mather Group LLC. grew its holdings in Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 249.4% in the second quarter. Mather Group LLC. now owns 8,332,294 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $645,753,000 after purchasing an additional 5,947,219 shares during the period. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its position in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF by 15.8% in the first quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 3,223,698 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $226,336,000 after buying an additional 439,565 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Angeles Investment Advisors LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF in the first quarter valued at approximately $191,989,000.

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Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF Price Performance

Shares of VGK stock opened at $79.29 on Wednesday. Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF has a 1-year low of $62.02 and a 1-year high of $82.41. The company has a market cap of $27.36 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 16.04 and a beta of 0.93. The stock has a 50 day simple moving average of $80.24 and a 200-day simple moving average of $78.26.

Vanguard FTSE Europe ETF Company Profile

Vanguard European Stock Index Fund is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks to track the performance of a benchmark index that measures the investment return of stocks issued by Companies located in the markets of Europe. The Fund on focuses indexing investment approach by investing all, or substantially all, of its assets in the common stocks included in the FTSE Developed Europe All Cap Index.

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Talos Eurisko Asset Management LP purchased a new stake in Celestica, Inc. (NYSE:CLS  Free Report) (TSE:CLS) in the second quarter, according to its most recent 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor purchased 74,800 shares of the technology companys stock, valued at approximately $11,677,000. Celestica makes up 2.8% of Talos Eurisko Asset Management LPs investment portfolio, making the stock its 17th largest holding. Talos Eurisko Asset Management LP owned approximately 0.07% of Celestica as of its most recent filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission.

A number of other institutional investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Golden State Wealth Management LLC increased its stake in shares of Celestica by 102.5% in the 2nd quarter. Golden State Wealth Management LLC now owns 164 shares of the technology companys stock worth $26,000 after acquiring an additional 83 shares during the last quarter. ST Germain D J Co. Inc. acquired a new stake in Celestica during the second quarter worth about $37,000. First Horizon Advisors Inc. raised its stake in Celestica by 33.1% during the second quarter. First Horizon Advisors Inc. now owns 350 shares of the technology companys stock worth $55,000 after purchasing an additional 87 shares during the period. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC boosted its holdings in Celestica by 45.6% in the 2nd quarter. Wolff Wiese Magana LLC now owns 364 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $57,000 after purchasing an additional 114 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Rothschild Investment LLC grew its stake in shares of Celestica by 20.0% in the 2nd quarter. Rothschild Investment LLC now owns 390 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $61,000 after buying an additional 65 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 67.38% of the companys stock.

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Celestica Stock Performance

Shares of CLS stock opened at $300.53 on Wednesday. The firm has a 50 day moving average of $280.05 and a two-hundred day moving average of $200.73. The stock has a market capitalization of $34.56 billion, a PE ratio of 48.79 and a beta of 1.85. The company has a quick ratio of 0.86, a current ratio of 1.47 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.37. Celestica, Inc. has a 52 week low of $58.05 and a 52 week high of $363.40.

Insider Activity at Celestica

Celestica ( NYSE:CLS Get Free Report ) (TSE:CLS) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, October 27th. The technology company reported $1.58 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $1.45 by $0.13. Celestica had a return on equity of 30.53% and a net margin of 6.35%.The business had revenue of $3.19 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $3.01 billion. During the same period last year, the firm earned $1.04 earnings per share. The companys revenue for the quarter was up 27.8% compared to the same quarter last year. On average, research analysts predict that Celestica, Inc. will post 4.35 EPS for the current fiscal year.

In other news, Director Laurette T. Koellner bought 6,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction that occurred on Thursday, October 30th. The shares were purchased at an average cost of $341.67 per share, for a total transaction of $2,050,020.00. Following the completion of the purchase, the director owned 6,000 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $2,050,020. This represents a ? increase in their ownership of the stock. The acquisition was disclosed in a legal filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this hyperlink. Corporate insiders own 0.52% of the companys stock.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research analysts recently commented on the company. Weiss Ratings reiterated a buy (b) rating on shares of Celestica in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. BNP Paribas reiterated an outperform rating and set a $300.00 price target on shares of Celestica in a report on Thursday, September 25th. CICC Research initiated coverage on shares of Celestica in a report on Tuesday, August 19th. They issued an outperform rating on the stock. TD Cowen reaffirmed a hold rating and set a $238.00 target price on shares of Celestica in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Canaccord Genuity Group lifted their price target on shares of Celestica from $126.00 to $240.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Wednesday, July 30th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, thirteen have issued a Buy rating and three have given a Hold rating to the company. Based on data from MarketBeat, the company has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $336.13.

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Celestica Profile

(Free Report)

Celestica Inc provides supply chain solutions in North America, Europe, and Asia. It operates through two segments: Advanced Technology Solutions, and Connectivity & Cloud Solutions. The company offers a range of product manufacturing and related supply chain services, including design and development, new product introduction, engineering services, component sourcing, electronics manufacturing and assembly, testing, complex mechanical assembly, systems integration, precision machining, order fulfillment, logistics, asset management, product licensing, and after-market repair and return services.

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By Lananh Nguyen and Saeed Azhar

NEW YORK (Reuters) -Bank of America (BAC) plans to spend billions of dollars on technologies such as artificial intelligence to boost bankers' productivity and bring in more revenue, its chief technology and information officer said on Monday.

BofA plans to allocate $4 billion into new technology capabilities from its $13 billion tech budget, the company told investors earlier this month. It plans to use AI more widely across all its businesses.

"How many clients can a given relationship banker cover if you're able to actually automate that process using AI," such as preparing client briefing documents before meetings, Hari Gopalkrishnan, who took over the role at BofA in July, said at the Reuters Momentum AI Finance conference in New York. "You now can have a banker cover 50 clients instead of 15. And that's exactly what we're seeing in the real world."

In wealth management, the second-biggest U.S. lender sends AI-generated market information to its financial advisers, combined with data on clients' portfolios, so that bankers can better tailor their investment advice, he said.

The bank's 18,000 developers have been using AI agents for the last year, and observed "significant gains" in productivity to automate or speed up mundane tasks, including streamlining some software tests by 90%.

"Our teams are looking at growth, and we're in the process of strategic planning for the next three years, and you see much more aggressive objectives," Gopalkrishnan said. "These tools are now taking flight."

Earlier this year, larger rival JPMorgan Chase said AI tools enabled it to boost sales to wealthy clients and manage scores of requests during April's market rout. Goldman Sachs is rolling out a generative AI assistant to its bankers, traders and asset managers, while Morgan Stanley developed a chatbot for its financial advisers with OpenAI.

BofA's virtual assistant, Erica, has done work for customers that would have otherwise required 11,000 employees, he said, including routine requests like ordering checks or disputing transactions.

The chatbot was launched in 2018 and has since logged three billion client interactions. Its more advanced applications include predictive data and tools for budgeting and investing.

BofA has invested heavily in technology in recent years. It has more than 59 million digital users and its patent filings exceed 7,800.

When asked about potential job losses from AI, Gopalkrishnan said BofA is focused on training its 213,000 employees to better use AI to reduce mundane tasks so they can focus on bringing in more business.
Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Edwards Lifesciences Corporation (NYSE:EW  Free Report) by 1.2% in the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the SEC. The institutional investor owned 69,997,629 shares of the medical research companys stock after buying an additional 798,801 shares during the quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. owned about 0.12% of Edwards Lifesciences worth $5,474,515,000 as of its most recent filing with the SEC.

Other hedge funds and other institutional investors have also recently bought and sold shares of the company. Econ Financial Services Corp acquired a new position in shares of Edwards Lifesciences during the second quarter worth $889,000. Pacific Capital Partners Ltd acquired a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences during the 2nd quarter valued at $1,760,000. Arkadios Wealth Advisors purchased a new stake in Edwards Lifesciences during the 2nd quarter worth $300,000. Randolph Co Inc acquired a new position in Edwards Lifesciences in the 2nd quarter worth $301,000. Finally, Mirova US LLC lifted its holdings in Edwards Lifesciences by 56.2% in the 2nd quarter. Mirova US LLC now owns 2,931,297 shares of the medical research companys stock worth $229,257,000 after buying an additional 1,054,301 shares in the last quarter. 79.46% of the stock is owned by institutional investors and hedge funds.

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Insider Activity

In related news, CFO Scott B. Ullem sold 13,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The shares were sold at an average price of $83.08, for a total transaction of $1,080,040.00. Following the completion of the sale, the chief financial officer owned 39,898 shares of the companys stock, valued at $3,314,725.84. This represents a 24.58% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is accessible through this hyperlink. Also, VP Daniel J. Lippis sold 1,020 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Monday, November 10th. The stock was sold at an average price of $82.55, for a total transaction of $84,201.00. Following the sale, the vice president owned 22,002 shares in the company, valued at approximately $1,816,265.10. This trade represents a 4.43% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders own 1.29% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several brokerages have recently weighed in on EW. Barclays restated an overweight rating and set a $99.00 target price (up from $95.00) on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c) rating on shares of Edwards Lifesciences in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. William Blair upgraded Edwards Lifesciences to a strong-buy rating in a report on Friday, July 25th. National Bankshares set a $92.00 target price on Edwards Lifesciences in a research report on Friday, October 31st. Finally, JPMorgan Chase & Co. increased their target price on Edwards Lifesciences from $85.00 to $90.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 31st. Three research analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, fourteen have given a Buy rating, ten have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the company. According to data from MarketBeat.com, the stock currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $91.39.

View Our Latest Stock Report on EW

Edwards Lifesciences Price Performance

Shares of NYSE EW opened at $84.13 on Wednesday. The company has a current ratio of 4.68, a quick ratio of 3.87 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.06. The company has a market capitalization of $48.82 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 12.11, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 3.97 and a beta of 1.03. Edwards Lifesciences Corporation has a twelve month low of $65.94 and a twelve month high of $87.21. The business has a 50 day simple moving average of $78.37 and a 200-day simple moving average of $77.88.

Edwards Lifesciences (NYSE:EW  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, October 30th. The medical research company reported $0.67 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $0.59 by $0.08. Edwards Lifesciences had a return on equity of 15.01% and a net margin of 72.96%.The firm had revenue of $1.55 billion for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.49 billion. During the same period last year, the business posted $0.67 earnings per share. The firms revenue for the quarter was up 14.7% on a year-over-year basis. Edwards Lifesciences has set its FY 2025 guidance at 2.560-2.620 EPS. Q4 2025 guidance at 0.580-0.640 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts expect that Edwards Lifesciences Corporation will post 2.45 earnings per share for the current year.

About Edwards Lifesciences

(Free Report)

Edwards Lifesciences Corporation provides products and technologies for structural heart disease and critical care monitoring in the United States, Europe, Japan, and internationally. It offers transcatheter heart valve replacement products for the minimally invasive replacement of aortic heart valves under the Edwards SAPIEN family of valves system; and transcatheter heart valve repair and replacement products to treat mitral and tricuspid valve diseases under the PASCAL PRECISION and Cardioband names.

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iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF (NYSEARCA:IGM  Get Free Report) saw unusually-high trading volume on Monday . Approximately 1,181,923 shares were traded during trading, an increase of 119% from the previous sessions volume of 539,532 shares.The stock last traded at $127.5740 and had previously closed at $127.81.

iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF Trading Up 0.5%

The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $128.07 and its 200-day simple moving average is $116.75. The company has a market cap of $9.42 billion, a PE ratio of 34.08 and a beta of 1.27.

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Institutional Investors Weigh In On iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF

A number of hedge funds and other institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the company. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. lifted its stake in iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF by 843.3% in the third quarter. Envestnet Asset Management Inc. now owns 3,363,724 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $423,661,000 after acquiring an additional 3,007,140 shares during the last quarter. Bank of America Corp DE increased its stake in shares of iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF by 101.6% during the 3rd quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 5,280,818 shares of the exchange traded funds stock worth $665,119,000 after purchasing an additional 2,660,957 shares during the last quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. raised its holdings in shares of iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF by 393.9% during the 3rd quarter. Raymond James Financial Inc. now owns 2,879,177 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $362,632,000 after purchasing an additional 2,296,259 shares in the last quarter. Truist Financial Corp lifted its stake in shares of iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF by 1,165.7% in the 3rd quarter. Truist Financial Corp now owns 2,016,040 shares of the exchange traded funds stock valued at $253,920,000 after purchasing an additional 1,856,762 shares during the last quarter. Finally, WestEnd Advisors LLC acquired a new stake in shares of iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF in the 3rd quarter valued at $224,760,000.

iShares Expanded Tech Sector ETF Company Profile

iShares North American Tech ETF, formerly iShares S&P North American Technology Sector Index Fund (the Fund), is an exchange-traded fund. The Fund seeks investment results that correspond generally to the price and yield performance, of the United States-traded technology companies, as represented by the S&P North American Technology Sector Index (the Index).

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC increased its stake in shares of Pfizer Inc. (NYSE:PFE  Free Report) by 2.9% during the 2nd quarter, HoldingsChannel.com reports. The firm owned 236,284 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 6,620 shares during the quarter. Wealthspire Advisors LLCs holdings in Pfizer were worth $5,727,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Several other hedge funds and other institutional investors also recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Westbourne Investments Inc. bought a new position in shares of Pfizer during the first quarter valued at approximately $2,411,000. Bourne Lent Asset Management Inc. lifted its stake in shares of Pfizer by 90.8% during the 2nd quarter. Bourne Lent Asset Management Inc. now owns 38,255 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $927,000 after acquiring an additional 18,200 shares during the last quarter. Strs Ohio purchased a new position in Pfizer during the 1st quarter valued at $49,968,000. IFM Investors Pty Ltd grew its position in Pfizer by 3.8% in the 2nd quarter. IFM Investors Pty Ltd now owns 1,127,143 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $27,322,000 after acquiring an additional 41,263 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Intrua Financial LLC increased its stake in Pfizer by 17.4% in the first quarter. Intrua Financial LLC now owns 78,392 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $1,986,000 after purchasing an additional 11,643 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 68.36% of the companys stock.

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Analyst Ratings Changes

PFE has been the subject of a number of recent analyst reports. Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Pfizer in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. They set a sector outperform rating and a $30.00 target price for the company. The Goldman Sachs Group reissued a neutral rating and issued a $26.00 price objective on shares of Pfizer in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. Morgan Stanley reduced their target price on shares of Pfizer from $33.00 to $32.00 and set an equal weight rating on the stock in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Citigroup boosted their price target on Pfizer from $25.00 to $26.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a report on Wednesday, August 6th. Finally, Wall Street Zen cut Pfizer from a buy rating to a hold rating in a research note on Sunday, September 28th. Two analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, four have issued a Buy rating, twelve have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and an average target price of $28.28.

Pfizer Trading Up 1.5%

NYSE PFE opened at $25.45 on Wednesday. Pfizer Inc. has a one year low of $20.92 and a one year high of $27.69. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.65, a quick ratio of 0.85 and a current ratio of 1.16. The company has a market capitalization of $144.70 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 13.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.81 and a beta of 0.54. The companys 50-day simple moving average is $24.82 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $24.46.

Pfizer (NYSE:PFE  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Tuesday, November 4th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $0.87 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $0.79 by $0.08. The firm had revenue of $16.65 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $16.94 billion. Pfizer had a net margin of 16.84% and a return on equity of 21.42%. Pfizer has set its FY 2025 guidance at 3.000-3.150 EPS. Equities analysts forecast that Pfizer Inc. will post 2.95 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Pfizer Dividend Announcement

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Monday, December 1st. Shareholders of record on Friday, November 7th will be given a dividend of $0.43 per share. This represents a $1.72 annualized dividend and a yield of 6.8%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend is Friday, November 7th. Pfizers dividend payout ratio (DPR) is 100.00%.

Pfizer Profile

(Free Report)

Pfizer Inc discovers, develops, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products in the United States, Europe, and internationally. The company offers medicines and vaccines in various therapeutic areas, including cardiovascular metabolic, migraine, and women's health under the Eliquis, Nurtec ODT/Vydura, Zavzpret, and the Premarin family brands; infectious diseases with unmet medical needs under the Prevnar family, Abrysvo, Nimenrix, FSME/IMMUN-TicoVac, and Trumenba brands; and COVID-19 prevention and treatment, and potential future mRNA and antiviral products under the Comirnaty and Paxlovid brands.

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RWE (OTCMKTS:RWEOY  Get Free Report) and Portland General Electric (NYSE:POR  Get Free Report) are both utilities companies, but which is the better stock? We will contrast the two companies based on the strength of their institutional ownership, dividends, profitability, analyst recommendations, earnings, valuation and risk.

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares RWE and Portland General Electrics gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

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Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio RWE $26.22 billion 1.32 $5.56 billion $3.50 14.63 Portland General Electric $3.51 billion 1.56 $313.00 million $2.75 17.75

Dividends

RWE has higher revenue and earnings than Portland General Electric. RWE is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Portland General Electric, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

RWE pays an annual dividend of $0.87 per share and has a dividend yield of 1.7%. Portland General Electric pays an annual dividend of $2.10 per share and has a dividend yield of 4.3%. RWE pays out 24.9% of its earnings in the form of a dividend. Portland General Electric pays out 76.4% of its earnings in the form of a dividend, suggesting it may not have sufficient earnings to cover its dividend payment in the future. Portland General Electric has increased its dividend for 2 consecutive years. Portland General Electric is clearly the better dividend stock, given its higher yield and longer track record of dividend growth.

Profitability

This table compares RWE and Portland General Electrics net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets RWE 11.32% 4.85% 1.75% Portland General Electric 8.43% 8.07% 2.45%

Analyst Ratings

This is a summary of recent ratings and price targets for RWE and Portland General Electric, as provided by MarketBeat.

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score RWE 0 2 3 0 2.60 Portland General Electric 1 10 1 1 2.15

RWE presently has a consensus price target of $53.30, indicating a potential upside of 4.12%. Portland General Electric has a consensus price target of $46.92, indicating a potential downside of 3.87%. Given RWEs stronger consensus rating and higher probable upside, equities analysts clearly believe RWE is more favorable than Portland General Electric.

Volatility & Risk

RWE has a beta of 0.71, meaning that its stock price is 29% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Portland General Electric has a beta of 0.67, meaning that its stock price is 33% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Summary

RWE beats Portland General Electric on 9 of the 16 factors compared between the two stocks.

About RWE

(Get Free Report)

RWE Aktiengesellschaft generates and supplies electricity from renewable and conventional sources in Germany, the United Kingdom, rest of Europe, North America, and internationally. It operates through five segments: Offshore Wind; Onshore Wind/Solar; Hydro/Biomass/Gas; Supply & Trading; and Coal/Nuclear. The company generates wind, hydro, solar, nuclear, gas, and biomass electricity. It also trades in electricity, gas, and energy commodities; operates gas storage facilities; and engages in battery storage activities. The company serves commercial, industrial, and corporate customers. RWE Aktiengesellschaft was founded in 1898 and is headquartered in Essen, Germany.

About Portland General Electric

(Get Free Report)

Portland General Electric Company, an integrated electric utility company, engages in the generation, wholesale purchase, transmission, distribution, and retail sale of electricity in the state of Oregon. It operates six thermal plants, three wind farms, and seven hydroelectric facilities. As of December 31, 2023, the company owned an electric transmission system consisting of 1,254 circuit miles, including 287 circuit miles of 500 kilovolt line, 413 circuit miles of 230 kilovolt line, and 554 miles of 115 kilovolt line; and served 934 thousand retail customers in 51 cities. It also has 28,868 circuit miles of distribution lines. Portland General Electric Company was founded in 1889 and is headquartered in Portland, Oregon.

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North European Oil Royality Trust (NYSE:NRT  Get Free Report) and Pacific Coast Oil Trust (OTCMKTS:ROYTL  Get Free Report) are both energy companies, but which is the better investment? We will contrast the two businesses based on the strength of their risk, profitability, valuation, dividends, earnings, institutional ownership and analyst recommendations.

Institutional & Insider Ownership

7.0% of North European Oil Royality Trust shares are held by institutional investors. 3.2% of North European Oil Royality Trust shares are held by insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, endowments and large money managers believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

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Profitability

This table compares North European Oil Royality Trust and Pacific Coast Oil Trusts net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets North European Oil Royality Trust 88.33% 343.87% 197.34% Pacific Coast Oil Trust N/A N/A N/A

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score North European Oil Royality Trust 0 1 0 0 2.00 Pacific Coast Oil Trust 0 0 0 0 0.00

Risk and Volatility

This is a summary of current ratings for North European Oil Royality Trust and Pacific Coast Oil Trust, as reported by MarketBeat.com.

North European Oil Royality Trust has a beta of 0.02, meaning that its stock price is 98% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, Pacific Coast Oil Trust has a beta of 0.11, meaning that its stock price is 89% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares North European Oil Royality Trust and Pacific Coast Oil Trusts gross revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio North European Oil Royality Trust $6.26 million 8.20 $5.06 million $0.56 9.98 Pacific Coast Oil Trust N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A

North European Oil Royality Trust has higher revenue and earnings than Pacific Coast Oil Trust.

Summary

North European Oil Royality Trust beats Pacific Coast Oil Trust on 7 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About North European Oil Royality Trust

(Get Free Report)

North European Oil Royalty Trust, a grantor trust, holds overriding royalty rights covering gas and oil production in various concessions or leases in the Federal Republic of Germany. The company also has rights under contracts with German exploration and development subsidiaries of ExxonMobil Corp. and the Royal Dutch/Shell Group of Companies. In addition, it holds royalties for the sale of gas well gas, oil well gas, crude oil, condensate, and sulfur. North European Oil Royalty Trust was founded in 1975 and is based in Keene, New Hampshire.

About Pacific Coast Oil Trust

(Get Free Report)

Pacific Coast Oil Trust acquires and holds net profits and royalty interests in various oil and natural gas properties located in California. Its properties include Orcutt properties located in the Santa Maria Basin; and West Pico, East Coyote, and Sawtelle properties located in the Los Angeles Basin of California. Pacific Coast Oil Trust was founded in 2012 and is based in Houston, Texas.

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Seizert Capital Partners LLC raised its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb Company (NYSE:BMY  Free Report) by 1.3% during the 2nd quarter, according to the company in its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 712,788 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock after purchasing an additional 9,167 shares during the period. Seizert Capital Partners LLCs holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb were worth $32,995,000 at the end of the most recent quarter.

Other hedge funds have also recently modified their holdings of the company. Vanguard Group Inc. increased its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 194,925,206 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $9,023,088,000 after buying an additional 3,522,202 shares in the last quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. boosted its stake in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 0.5% in the first quarter. Charles Schwab Investment Management Inc. now owns 60,606,905 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $3,696,415,000 after acquiring an additional 306,430 shares during the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its position in shares of Bristol Myers Squibb by 1.6% during the second quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 46,176,690 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock worth $2,132,976,000 after purchasing an additional 723,459 shares in the last quarter. Northern Trust Corp raised its stake in Bristol Myers Squibb by 5.3% in the 1st quarter. Northern Trust Corp now owns 25,974,504 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,584,185,000 after purchasing an additional 1,316,144 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Wellington Management Group LLP lifted its holdings in Bristol Myers Squibb by 297.0% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 23,728,443 shares of the biopharmaceutical companys stock valued at $1,447,198,000 after purchasing an additional 17,750,938 shares in the last quarter. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 76.41% of the companys stock.

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Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

A number of equities research analysts have recently commented on BMY shares. Scotiabank initiated coverage on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a research report on Thursday, November 13th. They issued a sector perform rating and a $45.00 target price for the company. Citigroup decreased their target price on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from $48.00 to $45.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a research note on Monday. Daiwa Capital Markets lowered shares of Bristol Myers Squibb from an outperform rating to a neutral rating and set a $42.00 target price on the stock. in a report on Tuesday, August 5th. Morgan Stanley restated a hold rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Thursday, July 31st. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a hold (c-) rating on shares of Bristol Myers Squibb in a report on Tuesday, October 14th. Four research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and fifteen have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, Bristol Myers Squibb currently has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $54.42.

Insider Activity at Bristol Myers Squibb

In related news, EVP David V. Elkins sold 56,000 shares of the stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 2nd. The stock was sold at an average price of $47.33, for a total value of $2,650,480.00. Following the transaction, the executive vice president owned 167,379 shares of the companys stock, valued at $7,922,048.07. This represents a 25.07% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. Insiders own 0.09% of the companys stock.

Bristol Myers Squibb Price Performance

BMY stock opened at $47.09 on Wednesday. The businesss 50-day moving average is $45.34 and its two-hundred day moving average is $46.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.54, a current ratio of 1.21 and a quick ratio of 1.11. The firm has a market capitalization of $95.86 billion, a P/E ratio of 18.99, a P/E/G ratio of 2.23 and a beta of 0.33. Bristol Myers Squibb Company has a 1 year low of $42.52 and a 1 year high of $63.33.

Bristol Myers Squibb (NYSE:BMY  Get Free Report) last released its earnings results on Thursday, October 30th. The biopharmaceutical company reported $1.63 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.52 by $0.11. Bristol Myers Squibb had a net margin of 10.58% and a return on equity of 80.04%. The firm had revenue of $12.22 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.75 billion. During the same period in the prior year, the firm earned $1.80 earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was up 2.8% compared to the same quarter last year. Bristol Myers Squibb has set its FY 2025 guidance at 6.400-6.600 EPS. Analysts anticipate that Bristol Myers Squibb Company will post 6.74 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Bristol Myers Squibb Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, November 3rd. Stockholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were given a dividend of $0.62 per share. This represents a $2.48 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 5.3%. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. Bristol Myers Squibbs payout ratio is 83.78%.

About Bristol Myers Squibb

(Free Report)

Bristol-Myers Squibb Company discovers, develops, licenses, manufactures, markets, distributes, and sells biopharmaceutical products worldwide. It offers products for hematology, oncology, cardiovascular, immunology, fibrotic, and neuroscience diseases. The company's products include Eliquis for reduction in risk of stroke/systemic embolism in non-valvular atrial fibrillation, and for the treatment of DVT/PE; Opdivo for various anti-cancer indications, including bladder, blood, CRC, head and neck, RCC, HCC, lung, melanoma, MPM, stomach and esophageal cancer; Pomalyst/Imnovid for multiple myeloma; Orencia for active rheumatoid arthritis and psoriatic arthritis; and Sprycel for the treatment of Philadelphia chromosome-positive chronic myeloid leukemia.

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TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. lifted its position in Bank of America Corporation (NYSE:BAC) by 2.8% in the 2nd quarter, according to its most recent Form 13F filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). The institutional investor owned 917,692 shares of the financial services providers stock after acquiring an additional 25,013 shares during the quarter. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc.s holdings in Bank of America were worth $44,191,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

A number of other hedge funds also recently added to or reduced their stakes in BAC. Nova Wealth Management Inc. raised its holdings in shares of Bank of America by 75.2% in the 2nd quarter. Nova Wealth Management Inc. now owns 529 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after purchasing an additional 227 shares in the last quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC increased its holdings in Bank of America by 246.5% during the second quarter. Quaker Wealth Management LLC now owns 523 shares of the financial services providers stock valued at $25,000 after buying an additional 880 shares during the period. RMG Wealth Management LLC bought a new position in Bank of America in the second quarter worth approximately $28,000. CGC Financial Services LLC raised its stake in Bank of America by 585.4% in the second quarter. CGC Financial Services LLC now owns 610 shares of the financial services providers stock worth $29,000 after buying an additional 521 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Acima Private Wealth LLC purchased a new stake in Bank of America during the second quarter worth $33,000. 70.71% of the stock is owned by hedge funds and other institutional investors.

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Bank of America Trading Up 0.3%

Bank of America stock opened at $51.64 on Wednesday. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.12, a quick ratio of 0.79 and a current ratio of 0.79. The stock has a market cap of $377.08 billion, a PE ratio of 14.07, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.99 and a beta of 1.34. The stock has a 50-day moving average of $51.70 and a two-hundred day moving average of $48.26. Bank of America Corporation has a one year low of $33.06 and a one year high of $54.69.

Bank of America ( NYSE:BAC Get Free Report ) last issued its quarterly earnings results on Wednesday, October 15th. The financial services provider reported $1.06 earnings per share for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $0.93 by $0.13. Bank of America had a return on equity of 10.76% and a net margin of 15.70%.The business had revenue of $5.35 billion for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $27.05 billion. During the same quarter in the previous year, the firm earned $0.81 earnings per share. The companys revenue was up 10.8% on a year-over-year basis. On average, research analysts anticipate that Bank of America Corporation will post 3.7 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Bank of America announced that its board has approved a stock buyback program on Wednesday, July 23rd that authorizes the company to buyback $40.00 billion in shares. This buyback authorization authorizes the financial services provider to purchase up to 11.1% of its stock through open market purchases. Stock buyback programs are typically a sign that the companys management believes its stock is undervalued.

Bank of America Announces Dividend

The business also recently declared a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, December 26th. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 5th will be paid a dividend of $0.28 per share. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 5th. This represents a $1.12 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.2%. Bank of Americas dividend payout ratio is presently 30.52%.

Analyst Ratings Changes

Several analysts have issued reports on BAC shares. Oppenheimer increased their target price on Bank of America from $56.00 to $57.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Thursday, October 16th. UBS Group raised their price objective on Bank of America from $55.00 to $57.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, October 7th. Dbs Bank upgraded Bank of America to a moderate buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Truist Financial increased their price target on shares of Bank of America from $51.00 to $56.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 23rd. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods restated an outperform rating and issued a $58.00 price target (up from $57.00) on shares of Bank of America in a report on Thursday, October 16th. Twenty-three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have given a Hold rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $57.86.

View Our Latest Research Report on Bank of America

Bank of America Profile

(Free Report)

Bank of America Corporation, through its subsidiaries, provides banking and financial products and services for individual consumers, small and middle-market businesses, institutional investors, large corporations, and governments worldwide. It operates in four segments: Consumer Banking, Global Wealth & Investment Management (GWIM), Global Banking, and Global Markets.

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Kayne Anderson BDC (NYSE:KBDC  Get Free Report) had its price objective cut by stock analysts at Royal Bank Of Canada from $17.00 to $16.00 in a research report issued to clients and investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The firm presently has an outperform rating on the stock. Royal Bank Of Canadas price objective points to a potential upside of 8.11% from the stocks current price.

Other equities analysts also recently issued research reports about the stock. Wells Fargo & Company decreased their price objective on shares of Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.00 to $15.00 and set an overweight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, November 12th. UBS Group lowered their price objective on shares of Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.50 to $15.00 and set a neutral rating for the company in a research report on Tuesday, October 14th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods cut their target price on shares of Kayne Anderson BDC from $16.50 to $16.00 and set an outperform rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, November 13th. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Kayne Anderson BDC currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $15.50.

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Check Out Our Latest Research Report on KBDC

Kayne Anderson BDC Stock Up 0.1%

Shares of KBDC stock traded up $0.02 during trading hours on Wednesday, hitting $14.80. 60,689 shares of the company were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 198,579. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.00, a quick ratio of 1.46 and a current ratio of 1.46. Kayne Anderson BDC has a one year low of $13.06 and a one year high of $17.99. The businesss 50-day simple moving average is $14.14 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $15.11. The stock has a market capitalization of $1.01 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.80 and a beta of 0.17.

Kayne Anderson BDC (NYSE:KBDC  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Monday, November 10th. The company reported $0.43 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating the consensus estimate of $0.40 by $0.03. Kayne Anderson BDC had a return on equity of 10.40% and a net margin of 46.55%.The firm had revenue of $61.37 million for the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $53.97 million. Sell-side analysts predict that Kayne Anderson BDC will post 2.06 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Kayne Anderson BDC

Institutional investors have recently bought and sold shares of the stock. Voleon Capital Management LP acquired a new position in Kayne Anderson BDC during the 3rd quarter valued at about $345,000. Brevan Howard Capital Management LP acquired a new position in shares of Kayne Anderson BDC during the third quarter valued at approximately $156,000. Centiva Capital LP bought a new stake in Kayne Anderson BDC during the third quarter worth approximately $172,000. Bank of America Corp DE lifted its position in Kayne Anderson BDC by 13.4% in the third quarter. Bank of America Corp DE now owns 5,211,124 shares of the companys stock worth $69,412,000 after purchasing an additional 614,393 shares during the period. Finally, Zacks Investment Management bought a new position in Kayne Anderson BDC during the 3rd quarter valued at $239,000.

About Kayne Anderson BDC

(Get Free Report)

Kayne Anderson BDC Inc is a business development company which invests primarily in first lien senior secured loans, with a secondary focus on unitranche and split-lien loans to middle market companies. Kayne Anderson BDC Inc is based in CHICAGO.

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Wealthspire Advisors LLC raised its position in Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM  Free Report) by 109.0% during the second quarter, according to the company in its most recent disclosure with the Securities & Exchange Commission. The institutional investor owned 97,180 shares of the companys stock after buying an additional 50,672 shares during the period. Wealthspire Advisors LLCs holdings in Philip Morris International were worth $17,699,000 as of its most recent SEC filing.

Several other large investors have also recently added to or reduced their stakes in the company. Vanguard Group Inc. boosted its holdings in shares of Philip Morris International by 1.6% in the 2nd quarter. Vanguard Group Inc. now owns 142,857,055 shares of the companys stock worth $26,018,555,000 after acquiring an additional 2,235,380 shares in the last quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC increased its holdings in Philip Morris International by 1.8% during the 2nd quarter. Geode Capital Management LLC now owns 37,181,107 shares of the companys stock valued at $6,760,346,000 after purchasing an additional 672,983 shares in the last quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP raised its position in Philip Morris International by 26.4% in the 1st quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 21,840,422 shares of the companys stock valued at $3,466,730,000 after purchasing an additional 4,563,632 shares during the last quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC boosted its stake in Philip Morris International by 24,968.0% in the second quarter. WCM Investment Management LLC now owns 11,275,606 shares of the companys stock worth $2,041,223,000 after purchasing an additional 11,230,626 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Nuveen LLC acquired a new position in Philip Morris International in the first quarter worth $1,712,994,000. 78.63% of the stock is owned by institutional investors.

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Analyst Upgrades and Downgrades

A number of analysts have recently weighed in on the company. KGI Securities initiated coverage on Philip Morris International in a research note on Monday, August 4th. They issued an outperform rating for the company. Stifel Nicolaus set a $180.00 price objective on shares of Philip Morris International in a report on Tuesday, October 21st. Weiss Ratings restated a buy (b) rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, October 8th. The Goldman Sachs Group reaffirmed a buy rating on shares of Philip Morris International in a research note on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Needham & Company LLC reiterated a buy rating and set a $195.00 target price on shares of Philip Morris International in a research report on Wednesday, July 23rd. Twelve research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and one has given a Hold rating to the company. According to MarketBeat, Philip Morris International has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus price target of $189.56.

Philip Morris International Price Performance

PM opened at $156.05 on Wednesday. Philip Morris International Inc. has a fifty-two week low of $116.12 and a fifty-two week high of $186.69. The company has a market cap of $242.92 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 28.27, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 2.21 and a beta of 0.43. The firm has a 50 day simple moving average of $157.08 and a 200 day simple moving average of $167.63.

Philip Morris International (NYSE:PM  Get Free Report) last issued its earnings results on Tuesday, March 28th. The company reported $1.59 EPS for the quarter. Philip Morris International had a net margin of 9.33% and a negative return on equity of 122.14%. The company had revenue of $8.12 billion during the quarter. As a group, analysts expect that Philip Morris International Inc. will post 7.14 EPS for the current year.

Philip Morris International Increases Dividend

The business also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Monday, October 20th. Shareholders of record on Friday, October 3rd were paid a $1.47 dividend. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Friday, October 3rd. This is a positive change from Philip Morris Internationals previous quarterly dividend of $1.35. This represents a $5.88 annualized dividend and a yield of 3.8%. Philip Morris Internationals payout ratio is currently 106.52%.

About Philip Morris International

(Free Report)

Philip Morris International Inc operates as a tobacco company working to delivers a smoke-free future and evolving portfolio for the long-term to include products outside of the tobacco and nicotine sector. The company's product portfolio primarily consists of cigarettes and smoke-free products, including heat-not-burn, vapor, and oral nicotine products primarily under the IQOS and ZYN brands; and consumer accessories, such as lighters and matches.

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Booking, Expedia Group, Travelers Companies, Trip.com Group, and MakeMyTrip are the five Travel stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Travel stocks are shares of publicly traded companies whose primary business is travel and tourismairlines, hotels and resorts, cruise lines, online travel agencies, car rental firms, and related leisure and hospitality operators. They are typically cyclical and sensitive to consumer confidence, economic conditions, fuel and labor costs, seasonality, and shocks like geopolitical events or health crises, making them more volatile and closely tied to travel demand and reopening trends. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Travel stocks within the last several days.

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Booking (BKNG)

Booking Holdings Inc, formerly The Priceline Group Inc., is a provider of travel and restaurant online reservation and related services. The Company, through its online travel companies (OTCs), connects consumers wishing to make travel reservations with providers of travel services across the world. It offers consumers an array of accommodation reservations (including hotels, bed and breakfasts, hostels, apartments, vacation rentals and other properties) through its Booking.com, priceline.com and agoda.com brands.

Expedia Group (EXPE)

Expedia Group, Inc. operates as an online travel company in the United States and internationally. The company operates through B2C, B2B, and trivago segments. Its B2C segment includes Brand Expedia, a full-service online travel brand offers various travel products and services; Hotels.com for lodging accommodations; Vrbo, an online marketplace for the alternative accommodations; Orbitz, Travelocity, Wotif Group, ebookers, CheapTickets, Hotwire.com and CarRentals.com.

Read Our Latest Research Report on EXPE

Travelers Companies (TRV)

The Travelers Companies, Inc., through its subsidiaries, provides a range of commercial and personal property, and casualty insurance products and services to businesses, government units, associations, and individuals in the United States and internationally. The company operates through three segments: Business Insurance, Bond & Specialty Insurance, and Personal Insurance.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TRV

Trip.com Group (TCOM)

Trip.com Group Limited, through its subsidiaries, operates as a travel service provider for accommodation reservation, transportation ticketing, packaged tours and in-destination, corporate travel management, and other travel-related services in China and internationally. The company acts as an agent for hotel-related transactions and selling air tickets, as well as provides train, long-distance bus, and ferry tickets; travel insurance products, such as flight delay, air accident, and baggage loss coverage; and air-ticket delivery, online check-in and seat selection, express security screening, real-time flight status tracker, and airport VIP lounge services.

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MakeMyTrip (MMYT)

MakeMyTrip Limited, an online travel company, sells travel products and solutions in India, the United States, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Peru, Colombia, Vietnam, and Indonesia. The company operates through three segments: Air Ticketing, Hotels and Packages, and Bus Ticketing.

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By Ilona Wissenbach and Rachel More

BERLIN (Reuters) -German automotive suppliers are still struggling with a global chip supply shortage triggered by a trade dispute over manufacturer Nexperia, with thousands of workers facing production disruptions at Bosch, the company said on Tuesday.

China and the Netherlands have been locked in a battle for control of Nexperia, although there are hopes of some easing in the stand-off with the Dutch government sending a senior delegation to Beijing this week to try to find a compromise.

Bosch said it was struggling with disruption at three of its production sites - Ansbach and Salzgitter in Germany and Braga in Portugal.

"We are continuing to prioritise everything we can to serve our customers and avoid production restrictions or keep them to a minimum," it said.

FURLOUGH MEASURES IN USE 'AS NEEDED'

Dutch-headquartered Nexperia's chips are technologically simple but ubiquitous in car electronic systems and other consumer products.

The Dutch government seized control of the Chinese-owned company in September over fears of technology transfers, prompting Beijing to curb exports of the company's finished products from China.

This left major suppliers like Bosch, Aumovio and ZF Friedrichshafen scrambling for alternative suppliers, while China's commerce ministry has granted export ban exemptions for some.

As the supply crunch slows production, Bosch has been sending workers home when necessary.

In Germany, the company is using state-backed furlough measures "as needed" for between 300 and 400 workers at Salzgitter, where it employs 1,300, and for around 650 of the 2,500 workers at Ansbach, the spokesperson said.

At Braga, about 2,500 of a total 3,300 employees are affected by temporary working time adjustments or furloughs, the spokesperson added.

INDUSTRY BODY WARNS OF RISKS TO PRODUCTION IN COMING WEEKS

ZF Friedrichshafen said its chip supplies were secure until the middle of next week.

Furlough measures are not needed at ZF before then, "but cannot be ruled out" afterwards, a spokesperson added.

Germany's VDA automotive association said the situation remained tense.

"It is too early to give the all-clear - we cannot rule out further impacts on supply chains in the coming weeks," VDA Managing Director Marcus Bollig told Reuters.

The shortages are hitting supply chains globally, with Japan's Nissan to cut production by another 1,400 vehicles at its Kyushu plant next week, a person familiar with the matter said.
Shares of Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. (NYSE:PARR  Get Free Report) dropped 5.2% during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as low as $43.47 and last traded at $43.8850. Approximately 396,422 shares traded hands during trading, a decline of 72% from the average daily volume of 1,392,318 shares. The stock had previously closed at $46.27.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

PARR has been the subject of a number of research reports. Weiss Ratings reissued a hold (c+) rating on shares of Par Pacific in a research note on Thursday, November 13th. TD Cowen lowered their price target on Par Pacific from $35.00 to $33.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a report on Thursday, August 7th. Piper Sandler upped their price objective on Par Pacific from $44.00 to $62.00 and gave the company an overweight rating in a research report on Friday, November 14th. Raymond James Financial restated an outperform rating and set a $45.00 price target (up from $38.00) on shares of Par Pacific in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Finally, Tudor Pickering upgraded shares of Par Pacific from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a research note on Thursday, November 6th. Two investment analysts have rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating and four have given a Hold rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $41.57.

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Par Pacific Stock Performance

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.97, a quick ratio of 0.56 and a current ratio of 1.42. The stock has a market cap of $2.22 billion, a PE ratio of -157.31 and a beta of 1.74. The firm has a fifty day moving average price of $37.68 and a 200 day moving average price of $31.08.

Par Pacific (NYSE:PARR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, November 4th. The company reported $5.95 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, topping analysts consensus estimates of $1.98 by $3.97. Par Pacific had a negative net margin of 0.25% and a negative return on equity of 1.79%. The business had revenue of $2.01 billion during the quarter, compared to analysts expectations of $1.72 billion. During the same quarter last year, the company posted ($0.10) earnings per share. The businesss quarterly revenue was down 6.1% on a year-over-year basis. Research analysts forecast that Par Pacific Holdings, Inc. will post 0.15 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CAO Ivan Daniel Guerra sold 5,500 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, September 2nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $35.11, for a total value of $193,105.00. Following the transaction, the chief accounting officer directly owned 17,491 shares of the companys stock, valued at approximately $614,109.01. This trade represents a 23.92% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, Director Timothy Clossey sold 2,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction dated Monday, September 15th. The shares were sold at an average price of $33.37, for a total transaction of $66,740.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 84,000 shares in the company, valued at approximately $2,803,080. The trade was a 2.33% decrease in their position. The SEC filing for this sale provides additional information. In the last 90 days, insiders have sold 36,638 shares of company stock valued at $1,371,866. Insiders own 4.40% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Par Pacific

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of PARR. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC increased its stake in Par Pacific by 16.2% during the 3rd quarter. Nisa Investment Advisors LLC now owns 1,855 shares of the companys stock worth $66,000 after purchasing an additional 259 shares in the last quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC lifted its stake in Par Pacific by 1.6% in the 3rd quarter. Wealth Enhancement Advisory Services LLC now owns 16,948 shares of the companys stock valued at $596,000 after acquiring an additional 266 shares in the last quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC boosted its position in Par Pacific by 12.5% during the 3rd quarter. Smartleaf Asset Management LLC now owns 2,633 shares of the companys stock worth $94,000 after acquiring an additional 293 shares during the last quarter. Amundi grew its stake in shares of Par Pacific by 3.6% during the 3rd quarter. Amundi now owns 11,013 shares of the companys stock worth $388,000 after acquiring an additional 386 shares in the last quarter. Finally, Ethic Inc. lifted its position in shares of Par Pacific by 1.9% in the second quarter. Ethic Inc. now owns 21,801 shares of the companys stock worth $580,000 after purchasing an additional 396 shares in the last quarter. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 92.15% of the companys stock.

Par Pacific Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Par Pacific Holdings, Inc owns and operates energy and infrastructure businesses. The company operates through Refining, Retail, and Logistics segments. The Refining segment owns and operates refineries that produce gasoline, distillate, asphalt, and other products primarily for consumption in Kapolei, Hawaii, Newcastle, Wyoming, Tacoma, Washington, and Billings, Montana.

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Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Free Report) had its price objective lowered by investment analysts at Bank of America from $351.00 to $346.00 in a note issued to investors on Wednesday,Benzinga reports. The brokerage currently has a buy rating on the insurance providers stock. Bank of Americas price objective suggests a potential upside of 53.68% from the companys current price.

A number of other brokerages have also recently issued reports on PGR. Hsbc Global Res upgraded shares of Progressive from a hold rating to a strong-buy rating in a report on Monday. Wolfe Research initiated coverage on Progressive in a research note on Monday, September 15th. They set a peer perform rating for the company. Wells Fargo & Company lowered their price objective on Progressive from $266.00 to $246.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Thursday, October 16th. The Goldman Sachs Group cut their target price on Progressive from $276.00 to $245.00 and set a buy rating on the stock in a research report on Monday, October 27th. Finally, Keefe, Bruyette & Woods lowered their price target on Progressive from $262.00 to $246.00 and set a market perform rating for the company in a research report on Wednesday, November 5th. One equities research analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, six have given a Buy rating, eleven have given a Hold rating and two have given a Sell rating to the stock. Based on data from MarketBeat, the stock presently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus price target of $265.65.

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Progressive Stock Up 0.1%

PGR stock traded up $0.26 during trading on Wednesday, reaching $225.14. 1,274,055 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 3,263,011. The firms 50 day moving average is $230.24 and its 200 day moving average is $249.42. The firm has a market cap of $132.02 billion, a P/E ratio of 12.36, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.19 and a beta of 0.29. The company has a current ratio of 0.32, a quick ratio of 0.31 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.19. Progressive has a twelve month low of $199.90 and a twelve month high of $292.99.

Progressive (NYSE:PGR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 15th. The insurance provider reported $4.45 EPS for the quarter, missing the consensus estimate of $5.04 by ($0.59). Progressive had a net margin of 12.57% and a return on equity of 33.88%. The firm had revenue of $21.38 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $21.64 billion. During the same quarter in the prior year, the firm earned $3.58 EPS. As a group, research analysts forecast that Progressive will post 14.68 EPS for the current year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In related news, insider John Jo Murphy sold 2,218 shares of the stock in a transaction dated Friday, August 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $250.78, for a total transaction of $556,230.04. Following the completion of the transaction, the insider owned 45,724 shares in the company, valued at approximately $11,466,664.72. This represents a 4.63% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The transaction was disclosed in a filing with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which can be accessed through this link. Also, insider Steven Broz sold 1,345 shares of the firms stock in a transaction dated Tuesday, November 11th. The stock was sold at an average price of $220.00, for a total transaction of $295,900.00. Following the sale, the insider owned 29,043 shares of the companys stock, valued at $6,389,460. This trade represents a 4.43% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 51,782 shares of company stock worth $12,708,788 in the last ninety days. Company insiders own 0.34% of the companys stock.

Institutional Investors Weigh In On Progressive

Several large investors have recently modified their holdings of the stock. Rise Advisors LLC lifted its position in Progressive by 7.4% in the 1st quarter. Rise Advisors LLC now owns 521 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $147,000 after buying an additional 36 shares in the last quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Management Advisory Group LLC boosted its stake in shares of Progressive by 2.1% during the 1st quarter. Pinnacle Wealth Management Advisory Group LLC now owns 1,927 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $545,000 after acquiring an additional 39 shares in the last quarter. LRI Investments LLC boosted its position in Progressive by 13.4% during the second quarter. LRI Investments LLC now owns 338 shares of the insurance providers stock worth $90,000 after purchasing an additional 40 shares during the period. True North Advisors LLC grew its holdings in Progressive by 4.0% during the first quarter. True North Advisors LLC now owns 1,055 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $299,000 after purchasing an additional 41 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Prosperity Consulting Group LLC raised its position in shares of Progressive by 1.1% in the first quarter. Prosperity Consulting Group LLC now owns 3,824 shares of the insurance providers stock valued at $1,082,000 after purchasing an additional 42 shares during the period. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 85.34% of the companys stock.

Progressive Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

The Progressive Corporation, an insurance holding company, provides personal and commercial auto, personal residential and commercial property, business related general liability, and other specialty property-casualty insurance products and related services in the United States. It operates in three segments: Personal Lines, Commercial Lines, and Property.

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Radian Group (NYSE:RDN  Get Free Report) and SelectQuote (NYSE:SLQT  Get Free Report) are both finance companies, but which is the better investment? We will compare the two businesses based on the strength of their institutional ownership, dividends, valuation, risk, profitability, earnings and analyst recommendations.

Institutional and Insider Ownership

95.3% of Radian Group shares are owned by institutional investors. Comparatively, 34.6% of SelectQuote shares are owned by institutional investors. 2.2% of Radian Group shares are owned by company insiders. Comparatively, 13.1% of SelectQuote shares are owned by company insiders. Strong institutional ownership is an indication that hedge funds, large money managers and endowments believe a stock will outperform the market over the long term.

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Volatility and Risk

Radian Group has a beta of 0.81, meaning that its share price is 19% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, SelectQuote has a beta of 1.26, meaning that its share price is 26% more volatile than the S&P 500.

Analyst Recommendations

Sell Ratings Hold Ratings Buy Ratings Strong Buy Ratings Rating Score Radian Group 1 3 0 2 2.50 SelectQuote 1 3 0 1 2.20

This is a breakdown of current ratings for Radian Group and SelectQuote, as provided by MarketBeat.

Radian Group currently has a consensus target price of $38.00, indicating a potential upside of 9.94%. SelectQuote has a consensus target price of $4.38, indicating a potential upside of 207.02%. Given SelectQuotes higher probable upside, analysts plainly believe SelectQuote is more favorable than Radian Group.

Valuation and Earnings

This table compares Radian Group and SelectQuotes top-line revenue, earnings per share (EPS) and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Radian Group $1.28 billion 3.67 $604.44 million $4.01 8.62 SelectQuote $1.53 billion 0.16 $47.58 million $0.05 28.50

Radian Group has higher earnings, but lower revenue than SelectQuote. Radian Group is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than SelectQuote, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Profitability

This table compares Radian Group and SelectQuotes net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Radian Group 45.62% 13.25% 6.88% SelectQuote 3.95% 10.41% 2.76%

Summary

Radian Group beats SelectQuote on 9 of the 14 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Radian Group

(Get Free Report)

Radian Group Inc., together with its subsidiaries, engages in the mortgage and real estate services business in the United States. It operates through two segments, Mortgage Insurance and Homegenius segments. The Mortgage Insurance segment aggregates, manages, and distributes U.S. mortgage credit risk for mortgage lending institutions and mortgage credit investors, through private mortgage insurance on residential first-lien mortgage loans; and other credit risk management solutions, including contract underwriting. The Homegenius segment offers title services, including a suite of insurance and non-insurance titles; tax and title data, centralized recording, document retrieval, and default curative title services; deed and property reports; closing and settlement services; mortgage underwriting and processing; escrow; appraisal management; and real estate brokerage. This segment also provides real estate valuation products and services; asset management services for managing real estate owned properties, which includes a web-based workflow solution; and a suite of real estate technology products and services to facilitate real estate transactions, such as proprietary platforms as a service solution. It serves mortgage originators, such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, savings institutions, credit unions, and community banks; and consumers, mortgage lenders, mortgage and real estate investors, government-sponsored enterprises, real estate brokers and agents, and corporations for their employees. The company was formerly known as CMAC Investment Corp. and changed its name to Radian Group Inc. in June 1999. Radian Group Inc. was founded in 1977 and is headquartered in Wayne, Pennsylvania.

About SelectQuote

(Get Free Report)

SelectQuote, Inc. operates a technology-enabled, direct-to-consumer distribution platform that sells a range of insurance products and healthcare services in the United States. The company operates through three segments: Senior; Life; and Auto & Home. It distributes senior health policies, such as medicare advantage, medicare supplement, medicare part D, and other ancillary senior health insurance related products, including prescription drugs, dental, vision, and hearing plans; life insurance products, such as term life, final expense, and other ancillary products, including critical illness, accidental death, and juvenile insurance; homeowners, auto, dwelling fire, and other ancillary insurance products; and non-commercial auto and home property, and casualty policies. The company also provides SelectRx, an accredited patient-centered pharmacy home pharmacy, which offers essential prescription medications, OTC medications, customized medication packaging, medication therapy management, and long-term pharmacy care; and population health that helps members understand the benefits available under their health plans, and contracts with insurance carriers. SelectQuote, Inc. was incorporated in 1999 and is headquartered in Overland Park, Kansas.

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Senator Ted Cruz (R-Texas) recently sold shares of The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. (NYSE:GS). In a filing disclosed on November 12th, the Senator disclosed that they had sold between $100,001 and $250,000 in The Goldman Sachs Group stock on November 11th.

The Goldman Sachs Group Stock Up 0.8%

Shares of NYSE GS traded up $6.25 on Wednesday, reaching $782.55. 780,385 shares of the companys stock traded hands, compared to its average volume of 2,357,875. The businesss 50 day simple moving average is $786.05 and its two-hundred day simple moving average is $714.77. The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. has a 12 month low of $439.38 and a 12 month high of $841.28. The company has a market cap of $234.71 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 15.90, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 1.43 and a beta of 1.41. The company has a quick ratio of 0.67, a current ratio of 1.11 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.23.

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The Goldman Sachs Group (NYSE:GS  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings results on Tuesday, October 14th. The investment management company reported $12.25 earnings per share for the quarter, topping the consensus estimate of $10.27 by $1.98. The company had revenue of $15.18 billion for the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $13.68 billion. The Goldman Sachs Group had a return on equity of 14.79% and a net margin of 13.18%.The firms quarterly revenue was up 19.5% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the business posted $8.40 EPS. As a group, equities research analysts forecast that The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. will post 47.12 EPS for the current fiscal year.

The Goldman Sachs Group Announces Dividend

Insider Buying and Selling at The Goldman Sachs Group

The firm also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Tuesday, December 30th. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, December 2nd will be issued a $4.00 dividend. This represents a $16.00 dividend on an annualized basis and a yield of 2.0%. The ex-dividend date is Tuesday, December 2nd. The Goldman Sachs Groups dividend payout ratio is 32.50%.

In other news, COO John E. Waldron sold 9,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Thursday, August 28th. The stock was sold at an average price of $750.51, for a total transaction of $6,754,590.00. Following the transaction, the chief operating officer owned 106,268 shares in the company, valued at approximately $79,755,196.68. This trade represents a 7.81% decrease in their ownership of the stock. The sale was disclosed in a filing with the SEC, which is accessible through this link. Corporate insiders own 0.55% of the companys stock.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

GS has been the topic of several recent analyst reports. JPMorgan Chase & Co. reissued a neutral rating and set a $750.00 price objective (up from $625.00) on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. BNP Paribas Exane upped their target price on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $685.00 to $775.00 and gave the stock a neutral rating in a research note on Friday, October 17th. Evercore ISI raised their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $752.00 to $830.00 and gave the company an outperform rating in a research report on Tuesday, September 30th. BMO Capital Markets began coverage on The Goldman Sachs Group in a research report on Friday, October 3rd. They issued a market perform rating and a $785.00 price objective on the stock. Finally, Morgan Stanley reduced their price target on shares of The Goldman Sachs Group from $854.00 to $828.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a research note on Wednesday, October 15th. Four analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, sixteen have given a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. Based on data from MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Hold and an average target price of $786.00.

Read Our Latest Research Report on The Goldman Sachs Group

Institutional Trading of The Goldman Sachs Group

Institutional investors and hedge funds have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the business. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC grew its holdings in The Goldman Sachs Group by 617,504.5% during the 2nd quarter. Kingstone Capital Partners Texas LLC now owns 29,058,291 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $20,566,005,000 after purchasing an additional 29,053,586 shares during the last quarter. Norges Bank bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group in the 2nd quarter worth about $2,138,031,000. Nuveen LLC bought a new stake in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group during the first quarter valued at approximately $897,185,000. Wellington Management Group LLP boosted its holdings in shares of The Goldman Sachs Group by 110.8% in the third quarter. Wellington Management Group LLP now owns 1,780,620 shares of the investment management companys stock valued at $1,417,997,000 after purchasing an additional 936,015 shares during the period. Finally, Ninety One UK Ltd bought a new position in The Goldman Sachs Group in the second quarter worth approximately $408,780,000. Institutional investors own 71.21% of the companys stock.

About Senator Cruz

Ted Cruz (Republican Party) is a member of the U.S. Senate from Texas. He assumed office on January 3, 2013. His current term ends on January 3, 2031.

Cruz (Republican Party) ran for re-election to the U.S. Senate to represent Texas. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024.

Cruz was born in Calgary in Alberta, Canada, where his parents were working in the Alberta oil fields. In 1974 they returned to the Houston area.

Cruz graduated from Second Baptist High School as valedictorian in 1988. He earned his B.A. in Public Policy from Princeton University in 1992. He went on to receive his J.D. from Harvard Law School in 1995. Cruz then worked in the following positions in the law field: law clerk to Chief Justice of the United States William Rehnquist, associate deputy attorney general for the U.S. Department of Justice and director of the Office of Policy Planning for the Federal Trade Commission.

Cruz served as Solicitor General of Texas from 2003 to 2008. In this role he was the youngest Solicitor General in the nation, as well as the longest-serving and first Hispanic Solicitor General in the state. Among his accomplishments, Cruz argued 40 oral arguments, including nine before the U.S. Supreme Court.

About The Goldman Sachs Group

(Get Free Report)

The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc, a financial institution, provides a range of financial services for corporations, financial institutions, governments, and individuals worldwide. It operates through Global Banking & Markets, Asset & Wealth Management, and Platform Solutions segments. The Global Banking & Markets segment provides financial advisory services, including strategic advisory assignments related to mergers and acquisitions, divestitures, corporate defense activities, restructurings, and spin-offs; and relationship lending, and acquisition financing, as well as secured lending, through structured credit and asset-backed lending and involved in financing under securities to resale agreements.

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Brinker International, Inc. (NYSE:EAT  Get Free Report) was up 7.1% during trading on Wednesday . The stock traded as high as $130.43 and last traded at $130.82. Approximately 926,798 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, a decline of 38% from the average daily volume of 1,499,407 shares. The stock had previously closed at $122.20.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several research firms have issued reports on EAT. JPMorgan Chase & Co. lowered their target price on shares of Brinker International from $175.00 to $155.00 and set an overweight rating on the stock in a research note on Thursday, October 30th. Piper Sandler increased their price objective on shares of Brinker International from $155.00 to $168.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Thursday, August 14th. UBS Group dropped their target price on shares of Brinker International from $165.00 to $144.00 and set a neutral rating on the stock in a report on Monday, October 27th. Morgan Stanley cut their price objective on Brinker International from $161.00 to $160.00 and set an equal weight rating for the company in a report on Wednesday, October 22nd. Finally, Evercore ISI raised Brinker International from an in-line rating to an outperform rating and increased their target price for the company from $190.00 to $210.00 in a report on Thursday, September 4th. Ten equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and nine have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $165.67.

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Brinker International Price Performance

The firm has a 50 day moving average price of $126.41 and a 200 day moving average price of $149.48. The company has a quick ratio of 0.25, a current ratio of 0.35 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.53. The stock has a market cap of $5.80 billion, a P/E ratio of 13.55, a P/E/G ratio of 0.77 and a beta of 1.38.

Brinker International (NYSE:EAT  Get Free Report) last announced its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, October 29th. The restaurant operator reported $1.93 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, beating analysts consensus estimates of $1.76 by $0.17. The company had revenue of $1.35 billion during the quarter, compared to the consensus estimate of $1.32 billion. Brinker International had a return on equity of 164.66% and a net margin of 7.94%.The firms revenue was up 18.5% on a year-over-year basis. During the same period in the previous year, the company posted $0.95 EPS. Brinker International has set its FY 2026 guidance at 9.900-10.50 EPS. On average, analysts forecast that Brinker International, Inc. will post 8.3 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Insiders Place Their Bets

In other news, CEO Kevin Hochman sold 44,000 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Wednesday, August 27th. The shares were sold at an average price of $157.82, for a total transaction of $6,944,080.00. Following the sale, the chief executive officer directly owned 212,867 shares in the company, valued at $33,594,669.94. This trade represents a 17.13% decrease in their position. The sale was disclosed in a document filed with the Securities & Exchange Commission, which is available at this hyperlink. Also, COO Douglas N. Comings sold 16,000 shares of the companys stock in a transaction on Tuesday, September 9th. The stock was sold at an average price of $156.48, for a total transaction of $2,503,680.00. Following the completion of the transaction, the chief operating officer directly owned 12,951 shares of the companys stock, valued at $2,026,572.48. This represents a 55.27% decrease in their position. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Corporate insiders own 1.43% of the companys stock.

Institutional Trading of Brinker International

Institutional investors have recently made changes to their positions in the business. Axiom Investors LLC DE bought a new stake in shares of Brinker International in the 1st quarter worth about $8,079,000. DAVENPORT & Co LLC lifted its stake in Brinker International by 117.0% in the second quarter. DAVENPORT & Co LLC now owns 4,272 shares of the restaurant operators stock worth $770,000 after purchasing an additional 2,303 shares during the last quarter. Alberta Investment Management Corp purchased a new position in shares of Brinker International during the second quarter valued at approximately $4,112,000. Voya Investment Management LLC grew its stake in shares of Brinker International by 13.4% during the first quarter. Voya Investment Management LLC now owns 16,513 shares of the restaurant operators stock valued at $2,461,000 after buying an additional 1,956 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Transcendent Capital Group LLC purchased a new stake in shares of Brinker International in the second quarter worth approximately $1,822,000.

About Brinker International

(Get Free Report)

Brinker International, Inc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the ownership, development, operation, and franchising of casual dining restaurants in the United States and internationally. It operates and franchises Chili's Grill & Bar and Maggiano's Little Italy restaurant brands.

Further Reading

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China Mengniu Dairy (OTCMKTS:CIADY  Get Free Report) shares saw an uptick in trading volume on Monday . 21,107 shares traded hands during mid-day trading, an increase of 224% from the previous sessions volume of 6,522 shares.The stock last traded at $19.11 and had previously closed at $19.24.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Separately, Zacks Research raised shares of China Mengniu Dairy from a strong sell rating to a hold rating in a research report on Monday, October 27th. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Hold rating, Based on data from MarketBeat.com, China Mengniu Dairy currently has a consensus rating of Hold.

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China Mengniu Dairy Stock Down 0.9%

China Mengniu Dairy Company Profile

The company has a current ratio of 0.94, a quick ratio of 0.82 and a debt-to-equity ratio of 0.24. The business has a 50-day moving average price of $18.82 and a two-hundred day moving average price of $20.56.

(Get Free Report)

China Mengniu Dairy Company Limited, an investment holding company, engages in the manufacture and distribution of dairy products under the MENGNIU brand in the People's Republic of China and internationally. It operates through Liquid Milk Business, Ice Cream Business, Milk Formula Business, and Cheese Business, and Other segments.

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Diageo, UP Fintech, and China SXT Pharmaceuticals are the three Chinese stocks to watch today, according to MarketBeats stock screener tool. Chinese stocks are equity securities issued by companies based in China (including mainland China and Hong Kong) that investors can buy and sell on domestic and international exchanges. They encompass categories such as A?shares (Shanghai/Shenzhen), B?shares, H?shares (Hong Kong), red chips, P?chips and American Depositary Receipts (ADRs), which differ by listing venue, currency, regulatory regime and investor access. These companies had the highest dollar trading volume of any Chinese stocks within the last several days.

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Diageo (DEO)

Diageo plc, together with its subsidiaries, engages in the production, marketing, and sale of alcoholic beverages. The company offers scotch, gin, vodka, rum, raki, liqueur, wine, tequila, Chinese white spirits, cachaca, and brandy, as well as beer, including cider and flavored malt beverages. It also provides Chinese, Canadian, Irish, American, and Indian-Made Foreign Liquor whiskies, as well as flavored malt beverages, ready to drink, and non-alcoholic products.

UP Fintech (TIGR)

UP Fintech Holding Limited provides online brokerage services focusing on Chinese investors. The company has developed a brokerage platform, which allows investor to trade stocks, options, warrants, and other financial instruments that can be accessed through its APP and website. It offers brokerage and value-added services, including investor education, community engagement, and IR platform services.

Read Our Latest Research Report on TIGR

China SXT Pharmaceuticals (SXTC)

China SXT Pharmaceuticals, Inc., a pharmaceutical company, engages in the research, development, manufacture, marketing, and sale of traditional Chinese medicine pieces (TCMP) in China. The company offers advanced, fine, and regular TCMP products, and raw medicinal material, such as ChenXiang, SanQiFen, HongQi, SuMu, JiangXiang, CuYanHuSuo, XiaTianWu, LuXueJing, XueJie, ChaoSuanZaoRen, HongQuMi, ChuanBeiMu, HuangShuKuiHua, WuWeiZi, DingXiang, RenShen, QingGuo, JueMingZi, and ShaRen.

Read Our Latest Research Report on SXTC

Further Reading
Toronto-Dominion Bank (TSE:TD  Get Free Report) (NYSE:TD) had its target price lifted by analysts at CIBC from C$112.00 to C$122.00 in a research note issued on Wednesday,BayStreet.CA reports. CIBCs price objective would suggest a potential upside of 6.68% from the companys previous close.

TD has been the subject of several other research reports. Scotiabank upped their price target on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$104.00 to C$114.00 in a research report on Friday, October 10th. Jefferies Financial Group upped their price target on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$120.00 to C$124.00 in a research note on Tuesday, September 30th. Canaccord Genuity Group boosted their price objective on shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$113.00 to C$119.00 and gave the company a buy rating in a report on Tuesday, September 30th. Royal Bank Of Canada upgraded Toronto-Dominion Bank from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating and raised their price objective for the stock from C$93.00 to C$120.00 in a research note on Friday, October 3rd. Finally, Desjardins increased their price target on Toronto-Dominion Bank from C$107.00 to C$110.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research report on Friday, August 29th. Five analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, three have given a Hold rating and one has given a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat.com, Toronto-Dominion Bank has a consensus rating of Hold and a consensus price target of C$107.17.

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Toronto-Dominion Bank Stock Performance

Insider Activity at Toronto-Dominion Bank

TD stock traded down C$0.57 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching C$114.36. The companys stock had a trading volume of 1,417,984 shares, compared to its average volume of 7,275,890. The firm has a market capitalization of C$195.24 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 9.79, a PEG ratio of 1.22 and a beta of 0.96. Toronto-Dominion Bank has a 1 year low of C$73.22 and a 1 year high of C$116.49. The stock has a fifty day simple moving average of C$111.76 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of C$103.08.

In other Toronto-Dominion Bank news, Director Nathalie Palladitcheff purchased 1,000 shares of Toronto-Dominion Bank stock in a transaction that occurred on Monday, October 6th. The stock was purchased at an average price of C$112.64 per share, for a total transaction of C$112,640.00. Following the transaction, the director directly owned 3,292 shares in the company, valued at C$370,810.88. This trade represents a 43.63% increase in their ownership of the stock. Also, insider Ajai Bambawale sold 7,328 shares of the stock in a transaction that occurred on Wednesday, October 1st. The stock was sold at an average price of C$112.07, for a total value of C$821,248.96. Following the sale, the insider directly owned 800 shares of the companys stock, valued at C$89,656. The trade was a 90.16% decrease in their ownership of the stock. Insiders have sold a total of 84,384 shares of company stock valued at $9,456,915 in the last 90 days. Insiders own 0.08% of the companys stock.

Toronto-Dominion Bank Company Profile

(Get Free Report)

Toronto-Dominion is one of Canadas two largest banks and operates three business segments: Canadian retail banking, U.S. retail banking, and wholesale banking. The banks U.S. operations span from Maine to Florida, with a strong presence in the Northeast. It also has a 13% ownership stake in Charles Schwab.

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Dunelm Group (OTCMKTS:DNLMY  Get Free Report) shares gapped down prior to trading on Monday . The stock had previously closed at $15.89, but opened at $14.9650. Dunelm Group shares last traded at $14.9650, with a volume of 677 shares traded.

Wall Street Analyst Weigh In

Separately, Royal Bank Of Canada raised shares of Dunelm Group from a hold rating to a moderate buy rating in a report on Monday, November 3rd. One research analyst has rated the stock with a Buy rating, According to MarketBeat, Dunelm Group presently has an average rating of Buy.

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Dunelm Group Stock Performance

About Dunelm Group

The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 2.73, a current ratio of 1.04 and a quick ratio of 0.25. The company has a 50-day moving average price of $14.81 and a 200 day moving average price of $15.57.

(Get Free Report)

Dunelm Group plc retails homewares in the United Kingdom. The company offers furniture and beds products, which include bedroom, living room, dining room, and other furniture, as well as bed and mattresses, and sofas and armchairs; bedding products comprising bed linen, dorma, baby and kids bedding, and duvets, pillows, and protectors; curtains and rugs; and venetian, roller, roman, vertical, and made to measure blinds.

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Great Portland Estates (LON:GPE  Get Free Report)s stock had its buy rating restated by research analysts at Panmure Gordon in a report released on Wednesday,Digital Look reports. They currently have a GBX 440 price objective on the stock. Panmure Gordons price objective indicates a potential upside of 43.56% from the companys current price.

GPE has been the topic of a number of other research reports. Jefferies Financial Group boosted their price objective on shares of Great Portland Estates from GBX 332 to GBX 342 and gave the stock a hold rating in a research report on Wednesday. Shore Capital restated a buy rating on shares of Great Portland Estates in a research note on Tuesday. Finally, Peel Hunt restated a buy rating and issued a GBX 375 price objective on shares of Great Portland Estates in a report on Tuesday. Three equities research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and two have issued a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company has an average rating of Moderate Buy and a consensus target price of GBX 409.80.

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Great Portland Estates Stock Down 2.7%

Insider Transactions at Great Portland Estates

LON:GPE traded down GBX 8.50 during trading hours on Wednesday, reaching GBX 306.50. 1,747,034 shares of the stock were exchanged, compared to its average volume of 1,795,630. The stock has a market cap of 1.24 billion, a PE ratio of 10.18, a PEG ratio of 2.22 and a beta of 0.80. Great Portland Estates has a twelve month low of GBX 260 and a twelve month high of GBX 369. The firm has a 50 day moving average of GBX 325.97 and a 200 day moving average of GBX 330.61. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 51.52, a current ratio of 0.26 and a quick ratio of 0.46.

In other news, insider Nick Sanderson purchased 88 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Friday, October 31st. The stock was purchased at an average price of GBX 336 per share, for a total transaction of 295.68. Insiders have acquired 419 shares of company stock worth $134,630 over the last 90 days. Corporate insiders own 1.53% of the companys stock.

Great Portland Estates Company Profile

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GPE is a FTSE 250 real estate investor and developer. GPE aims to deliver superior returns by unlocking the often hidden potential in commercial real estate in central London, creating high quality sustainable spaces for its customers and long-term value for its stakeholders.

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Boyu Capital is in talks to bring in Tencent, Singapores GIC and possibly other investors as limited partners in its planned investment in Starbucks China business, as reported by Bloomberg.

The US coffee chain recently agreed to sell a majority stake in its China retail operations to Boyu for $4bn.

The transaction involves the creation of a joint venture in which the private equity company would own up to 60% of Starbucks retail business in the country.

Starbucks will retain a 40% stake and will continue to own and license the brand and intellectual property to the new venture.

The China business, headquartered in Shanghai, is the companys second-largest market with around 8,000 outlets.

Starbucks has outlined a target of around 20,000 stores in the country.

Boyu will focus on expanding the coffee chain beyond major urban centres, with an eye on smaller cities to support future growth.

It also aims to explore additional locations in high-traffic areas such as tourist destinations, metro systems and airports.

Discussions on the potential participation of other parties are ongoing and could still fall through.

Boyu was one of five shortlisted bidders selected by Starbucks in September 2025 for the sale of the China stake.

Boyu did not provide a response to enquiries, and spokespersons for Starbucks, GIC and Tencent also refused to comment.

Other international consumer brands besides Starbucks are seeking local backing to strengthen their position.

Restaurant Brands International recently agreed to divest a controlling interest in Burger Kings China operations to asset manager CPE, while Goldman Sachs secured exclusive negotiating rights for the purchase of Burger Kings business in Japan.

"Boyu in Starbucks China partnership talks with Tencent and GIC" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand.




NuScale Power Corporation (NYSE:SMR  Get Free Report) dropped 6.4% on Monday . The stock traded as low as $20.56 and last traded at $21.01. Approximately 24,526,779 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 71% from the average daily volume of 14,353,252 shares. The stock had previously closed at $22.45.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

A number of research firms have recently weighed in on SMR. Royal Bank Of Canada cut their target price on NuScale Power from $35.00 to $32.00 and set a sector perform rating for the company in a research report on Monday, November 10th. Citigroup reaffirmed a sell rating and set a $37.50 price objective (down previously from $46.00) on shares of NuScale Power in a research report on Tuesday, October 21st. BNP Paribas downgraded shares of NuScale Power from a hold rating to a strong sell rating in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. UBS Group boosted their target price on shares of NuScale Power from $34.00 to $38.00 and gave the company a neutral rating in a research report on Monday, August 11th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reiterated a sell (d-) rating on shares of NuScale Power in a research report on Monday. Three investment analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and six have assigned a Sell rating to the companys stock. According to data from MarketBeat, the company presently has an average rating of Reduce and an average price target of $37.50.

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NuScale Power Price Performance

The businesss fifty day moving average price is $37.58 and its 200 day moving average price is $36.59. The stock has a market cap of $6.30 billion, a P/E ratio of -7.38 and a beta of 2.03.

NuScale Power (NYSE:SMR  Get Free Report) last released its quarterly earnings data on Thursday, November 6th. The company reported ($1.85) earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of ($0.11) by ($1.74). The company had revenue of $8.24 million for the quarter, compared to analyst estimates of $11.29 million. NuScale Power had a negative return on equity of 51.27% and a negative net margin of 594.63%.NuScale Powers revenue for the quarter was up 1635.2% compared to the same quarter last year. During the same quarter in the prior year, the company earned ($0.18) earnings per share. On average, analysts predict that NuScale Power Corporation will post -0.73 earnings per share for the current fiscal year.

Insider Activity at NuScale Power

In related news, Director Corp Fluor sold 2,372,563 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Friday, September 19th. The stock was sold at an average price of $43.99, for a total transaction of $104,369,046.37. Following the sale, the director owned 10,085,344 shares of the companys stock, valued at $443,654,282.56. This trade represents a 19.04% decrease in their position. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available through this hyperlink. In the last three months, insiders sold 15,030,641 shares of company stock valued at $605,953,415. 1.96% of the stock is currently owned by corporate insiders.

Institutional Inflows and Outflows

Several institutional investors and hedge funds have recently made changes to their positions in SMR. CX Institutional acquired a new position in NuScale Power in the 3rd quarter valued at approximately $25,000. Nemes Rush Group LLC bought a new stake in shares of NuScale Power in the third quarter worth $25,000. Quantbot Technologies LP acquired a new stake in NuScale Power in the first quarter valued at $27,000. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. raised its position in NuScale Power by 84.5% during the 2nd quarter. Thurston Springer Miller Herd & Titak Inc. now owns 784 shares of the companys stock worth $31,000 after purchasing an additional 359 shares during the last quarter. Finally, Indiana Trust & Investment Management Co acquired a new position in NuScale Power during the 3rd quarter worth about $34,000. Institutional investors and hedge funds own 78.37% of the companys stock.

About NuScale Power

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NuScale Power Corporation engages in the development and sale of modular light water reactor nuclear power plants to supply energy for electrical generation, district heating, desalination, hydrogen production, and other process heat applications. It offers NuScale Power Module (NPM), a water reactor that can generate 77 megawatts of electricity (MWe); and VOYGR power plant designs for three facility sizes that are capable of housing from one to four and six or twelve NPMs.

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Volatility & Risk

Ntt Data has a beta of 0.98, meaning that its share price is 2% less volatile than the S&P 500. Comparatively, FuelPositive has a beta of 0.26, meaning that its share price is 74% less volatile than the S&P 500.

Profitability

This table compares Ntt Data and FuelPositives net margins, return on equity and return on assets.

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Net Margins Return on Equity Return on Assets Ntt Data 3.06% 4.98% 1.86% FuelPositive N/A -54.47% -44.36%

Earnings & Valuation

This table compares Ntt Data and FuelPositives gross revenue, earnings per share and valuation.

Gross Revenue Price/Sales Ratio Net Income Earnings Per Share Price/Earnings Ratio Ntt Data $30.46 billion 1.08 $940.20 million $0.68 34.56 FuelPositive N/A N/A -$14.05 million ($0.01) -3.86

Ntt Data has higher revenue and earnings than FuelPositive. FuelPositive is trading at a lower price-to-earnings ratio than Ntt Data, indicating that it is currently the more affordable of the two stocks.

Summary

Ntt Data beats FuelPositive on 8 of the 8 factors compared between the two stocks.

About Ntt Data

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NTT DATA Group Corporation provides IT and business services worldwide. It offers cloud, cybersecurity, data and intelligence, salesforce, SAP, ServiceNow, and application development and management, as well as 5G services. The company also provides consulting, industry solutions, business process services, and IT modernization and managed services. It serves automotive, healthcare, life sciences, media, banking, and insurance industries. The company was formerly known as NTT DATA Corporation. NTT DATA Group Corporation was founded in 1988 and is headquartered in Tokyo, Japan. NTT DATA Group Corporation operates as a subsidiary of Nippon Telegraph and Telephone Corporation.

About FuelPositive

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FuelPositive Corporation, a technology company, provides clean energy solutions in Canada. The company's clean technology solutions include green ammonia (NH3) for use in various industries and applications. Its flagship product is a green ammonia production system that takes air, water, and electricity to produce a non-polluting chemical for various applications, including fertilizer for farming, fuel for grain drying and internal combustion engines, a solution for grid storage, and an alternative for fuel cells. The company was formerly known as EEStor Corporation and changed its name to FuelPositive Corporation in February 2021. FuelPositive Corporation is headquartered in Waterloo, Canada.

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NewJersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Get Free Report) updated its FY 2026 earnings guidance on Wednesday. The company provided earnings per share (EPS) guidance of 3.030-3.180 for the period, compared to the consensus estimate of 3.120. The company issued revenue guidance of -.

Wall Street Analysts Forecast Growth

Several equities research analysts recently commented on NJR shares. Wall Street Zen raised NewJersey Resources from a sell rating to a hold rating in a report on Saturday, October 25th. Raymond James Financial reissued an outperform rating and issued a $50.00 price objective (up previously from $49.00) on shares of NewJersey Resources in a research note on Friday, August 8th. Finally, Weiss Ratings reaffirmed a hold (c) rating on shares of NewJersey Resources in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. Two research analysts have rated the stock with a Buy rating and five have assigned a Hold rating to the companys stock. According to MarketBeat, the company currently has an average rating of Hold and a consensus target price of $51.43.

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NewJersey Resources Trading Down 0.7%

Shares of NYSE:NJR traded down $0.30 during midday trading on Wednesday, reaching $46.08. The company had a trading volume of 955,016 shares, compared to its average volume of 613,041. The company has a fifty day simple moving average of $46.29 and a two-hundred day simple moving average of $46.16. The firm has a market cap of $4.63 billion, a price-to-earnings ratio of 11.27 and a beta of 0.67. NewJersey Resources has a 1-year low of $43.46 and a 1-year high of $51.94. The company has a debt-to-equity ratio of 1.25, a quick ratio of 0.48 and a current ratio of 0.76.

NewJersey Resources (NYSE:NJR  Get Free Report) last posted its quarterly earnings data on Wednesday, November 19th. The utilities provider reported $0.16 EPS for the quarter, missing analysts consensus estimates of $0.18 by ($0.02). NewJersey Resources had a net margin of 19.64% and a return on equity of 17.08%. NewJersey Resources has set its FY 2026 guidance at 3.030-3.180 EPS. Research analysts predict that NewJersey Resources will post 3.15 earnings per share for the current year.

NewJersey Resources Dividend Announcement

The company also recently disclosed a quarterly dividend, which will be paid on Friday, January 2nd. Shareholders of record on Friday, December 12th will be given a dividend of $0.475 per share. This represents a $1.90 annualized dividend and a yield of 4.1%. The ex-dividend date is Friday, December 12th. NewJersey Resourcess payout ratio is presently 46.45%.

Institutional Trading of NewJersey Resources

Hedge funds have recently modified their holdings of the business. Advisory Services Network LLC boosted its position in shares of NewJersey Resources by 2.8% in the third quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 55,082 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $2,652,000 after buying an additional 1,485 shares during the period. NewEdge Advisors LLC boosted its position in NewJersey Resources by 2.3% during the 3rd quarter. NewEdge Advisors LLC now owns 13,009 shares of the utilities providers stock worth $626,000 after acquiring an additional 298 shares during the period. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co grew its stake in NewJersey Resources by 3.8% during the 3rd quarter. CANADA LIFE ASSURANCE Co now owns 138,209 shares of the utilities providers stock valued at $6,628,000 after acquiring an additional 5,085 shares in the last quarter. Polymer Capital Management HK LTD acquired a new position in shares of NewJersey Resources in the 3rd quarter valued at about $329,000. Finally, Polymer Capital Management US LLC purchased a new stake in shares of NewJersey Resources in the third quarter worth approximately $521,000. Hedge funds and other institutional investors own 70.98% of the companys stock.

About NewJersey Resources

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New Jersey Resources Corporation, an energy services holding company, distributes natural gas. The company operates through four segments: Natural Gas Distribution, Clean Energy Ventures, Energy Services, and Storage and Transportation. The Natural Gas Distribution segment offers regulated natural gas utility services to approximately 576,000 customers in Burlington, Middlesex, Monmouth, Morris, Ocean, and Sussex counties in New Jersey; provides capacity and storage management services; and participates in the off-system sales and capacity release markets.

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Dell Technologies Inc. (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) shares fell 8.4% during trading on Monday . The stock traded as low as $120.01 and last traded at $122.5670. 15,240,614 shares were traded during mid-day trading, an increase of 113% from the average session volume of 7,164,901 shares. The stock had previously closed at $133.76.

Analyst Ratings Changes

A number of research firms recently weighed in on DELL. UBS Group upped their price target on Dell Technologies from $155.00 to $186.00 and gave the stock a buy rating in a research note on Wednesday, October 8th. Cowen restated a hold rating on shares of Dell Technologies in a report on Friday, August 29th. Fox Advisors cut Dell Technologies from an overweight rating to an equal weight rating in a report on Friday, August 29th. Piper Sandler began coverage on shares of Dell Technologies in a research note on Tuesday, October 21st. They set an overweight rating and a $172.00 price target for the company. Finally, Barclays upped their price objective on shares of Dell Technologies from $133.00 to $151.00 and gave the stock an equal weight rating in a report on Wednesday, October 8th. One investment analyst has rated the stock with a Strong Buy rating, seventeen have assigned a Buy rating, seven have assigned a Hold rating and one has assigned a Sell rating to the stock. According to MarketBeat.com, the company currently has a consensus rating of Moderate Buy and an average target price of $161.35.

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Dell Technologies Trading Down 2.8%

The business has a 50-day moving average of $143.89 and a 200 day moving average of $129.36. The firm has a market capitalization of $80.20 billion, a PE ratio of 17.54, a price-to-earnings-growth ratio of 0.84 and a beta of 1.02.

Dell Technologies (NYSE:DELL  Get Free Report) last posted its earnings results on Thursday, October 5th. The technology company reported $1.68 earnings per share (EPS) for the quarter. The firm had revenue of $26.43 billion during the quarter. Dell Technologies had a net margin of 4.73% and a negative return on equity of 236.21%. Dell Technologies has set its FY24 guidance at $6.10-6.50 EPS. On average, sell-side analysts expect that Dell Technologies Inc. will post 6.93 EPS for the current fiscal year.

Dell Technologies Announces Dividend

The company also recently announced a quarterly dividend, which was paid on Friday, October 31st. Shareholders of record on Tuesday, October 21st were given a dividend of $0.525 per share. The ex-dividend date of this dividend was Tuesday, October 21st. This represents a $2.10 annualized dividend and a dividend yield of 1.8%. Dell Technologiess dividend payout ratio (DPR) is currently 30.88%.

Insider Buying and Selling

In other Dell Technologies news, Director V (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 565,000 shares of the businesss stock in a transaction on Thursday, September 18th. The stock was sold at an average price of $132.32, for a total value of $74,760,800.00. The transaction was disclosed in a legal filing with the SEC, which is available at this link. Also, Director Iv (Gp) L.L.C. Slta sold 824,999 shares of the firms stock in a transaction on Monday, September 22nd. The shares were sold at an average price of $135.98, for a total value of $112,183,364.02. Additional details regarding this sale are available in the official SEC disclosure. Insiders sold a total of 4,537,755 shares of company stock worth $642,644,973 in the last 90 days. Company insiders own 42.00% of the companys stock.

Hedge Funds Weigh In On Dell Technologies

Institutional investors have recently added to or reduced their stakes in the stock. Sunbelt Securities Inc. increased its holdings in Dell Technologies by 0.6% during the third quarter. Sunbelt Securities Inc. now owns 21,758 shares of the technology companys stock worth $3,085,000 after buying an additional 128 shares during the last quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors grew its position in shares of Dell Technologies by 12.7% during the 3rd quarter. Captrust Financial Advisors now owns 37,778 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $5,356,000 after acquiring an additional 4,253 shares during the period. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. increased its stake in shares of Dell Technologies by 77.4% during the 3rd quarter. Coldstream Capital Management Inc. now owns 7,622 shares of the technology companys stock worth $1,081,000 after purchasing an additional 3,326 shares during the last quarter. Danske Bank A S bought a new stake in shares of Dell Technologies in the 3rd quarter worth approximately $29,421,000. Finally, Advisory Services Network LLC lifted its stake in Dell Technologies by 62.5% in the third quarter. Advisory Services Network LLC now owns 46,761 shares of the technology companys stock valued at $6,629,000 after purchasing an additional 17,984 shares during the last quarter. Institutional investors own 76.37% of the companys stock.

Dell Technologies Company Profile

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Dell Technologies Inc designs, develops, manufactures, markets, sells, and supports various comprehensive and integrated solutions, products, and services in the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, and internationally. The company operates through two segments, Infrastructure Solutions Group (ISG) and Client Solutions Group (CSG).

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Brazil is considering expanding its foreign exchange transaction tax to cover cryptocurrency use in international payments, government officials told Reuters on Nov. 18, as authorities seek to close a regulatory loophole in the countrys forex taxation system.

The Finance Ministry is reviewing whether to apply the IOF tax to cross-border transfers using digital assets and stablecoins.

The Central Bank classified these operations as forex transactions, according to Reuters exclusive report.

The IOF (Imposto sobre Operacoes Financeiras) is Brazils tax on financial transactions, including foreign exchange.

Crypto transactions are not currently subject to this tax, though investors must pay income tax on capital gains exceeding a monthly exemption.

Understanding the Regulatory Gap

The loophole exists because Brazilians can use stablecoins to access dollar-equivalent assets and make international payments without paying the IOF tax that applies to traditional forex operations.

When users exchange reais for dollars through banks, they pay IOF tax rates ranging from 0.38% to 6.38% depending on the transaction type.

Purchasing USDT to hold dollar-denominated value or sending stablecoins abroad currently avoids this taxation entirely.

A Federal Police official told Reuters the tax gap enables customs evasion schemes. The official described patterns where importers might officially declare 20% of a machinery purchase value and route the remaining 80% through USDT transfers.

This approach allows them to avoid both IOF taxes and import duties. The official estimated the government loses more than $30 billion in annual revenue from such practices.

Market Scale and Regulatory Framework

Crypto transactions in Brazil reached 227 billion reais ($42.8 billion) in the first half of 2025, a 20% increase from the same period in 2024, according to federal tax authority data cited by Reuters.

Tether accounted for two-thirds of transaction volume, while Bitcoin represented 11% of transactions.

The Central Bank published three resolutions Nov. 10 that classify stablecoin transactions as foreign-exchange operations, according to Agencia Brasil.

Resolution BCB n 521 covers international payments and card transaction settlements. The regulations take effect Feb. 2, 2026, with forex-specific stablecoin rules beginning May 4, 2026, according to a legal analysis from Mattos Filho.

The Federal Revenue Service expanded crypto reporting requirements Nov. 14 through IN RFB n 2.291, which mandates foreign exchanges operating in Brazil to report transactions, according to the official Receita Federal announcement.
By Jonathan Stempel

(Reuters) -PacifiCorp, owned by Warren Buffett's Berkshire Hathaway, said on Wednesday it reached a $150 million settlement with 1,434 plaintiffs who blamed the utility for starting the 2020 Labor Day weekend wildfires in Oregon.

The payout boosts the amount PacifiCorp has agreed to pay wildfire claimants to close to $1.7 billion, including a $125 million settlement last month with 93 Oregon wineries and vineyards.

PacifiCorp has set aside $2.85 billion for litigation over wildfires that burned more than 2,000 structures and 500,000 acres in Oregon and northern California. It still faces tens of billions of dollars of claims.

The Portland, Oregon-based utility has denied victims' accusations that it was negligent in failing to shut off power lines during a windstorm. Oregon and the U.S. government are also suing PacifiCorp over damage to natural resources.

George McCoy, a lawyer representing plaintiffs, in a press release issued by PacifiCorp called the settlement "reasonable."

PacifiCorp has faced a series of "mini-trials" in the so-called James litigation, which accounts for most remaining wildfire claims.

In a November 3 regulatory filing, PacifiCorp said a Multnomah County, Oregon judge's recent decision to roughly quadruple the pace of trials "will cause significant financial strain" on liquidity and could threaten the utility's investment-grade status.

PacifiCorp had no immediate additional comment.

"The vast majority of Oregonians impacted by PacifiCorps fires are still waiting for the company to do the right thing," lead counsel for plaintiffs in the James litigation said in a statement.

PacifiCorp's immediate parent is Berkshire Hathaway Energy, which is a unit of Buffett's Omaha, Nebraska-based conglomerate.

(Reporting by Jonathan Stempel in New York; Editing by Daniel Wallis)
Templemore Garda college has welcomed the largest intake of Garda trainees since 2014.

In the fourth intake this year, 223 entered the Garda Training College in Templemore this week. Overall, 794 trainees have entered the Garda College in 2025, the highest number since 2018.

Over 11,100 people applied to join An Garda Siochana this year demonstrating the strong and sustained interest in a career as a Garda.

READ NEXT: Roblox to block Irish kids from talking to adults in an attempt to curb grooming

Minister for Justice Jim OCallaghan said:

I have stated that increasing the number of Gardai is one of my key priorities. I am delighted to see 223 trainees enter Templemore.

We live in a country where people want to see Gardai in their communities which is hugely positive. As a government, we are supporting the Garda Commissioner in his implementation of highly visible policing operations across the country. Taking in the highest number of trainees in 7 years will go some way to achieving that.

We committed to a range of actions in the Programme for Government to provide the Commissioner with the resources needed to deliver a modern and highly-visible policing service now and into the future. I engage regularly with the Commissioner to ensure he has the support needed so that he can make the best use of the resources at his disposal.

In recent years, the Government has introduced a number of initiatives to boost the number of Gardai. These include increasing the maximum age of entry from 35 to 50, increasing the trainee allowance to 354 per week, and increasing the mandatory age of retirement to 62.

READ NEXT: Search stood down for missing 36-year-old woman amid Garda update

An Garda Siochana introduced measures to make the recruitment process more efficient. This includes the reform of the physical competency test, the introduction of a candidate-centred approach to elements of the recruitment process and the rationalisation of the vetting processes.

The average length of time between a successful candidate submitting an application to join An Garda Siochana and entering Templemore is now 24 weeks, down from an average of 66 weeks in 2023.

Minister Jim OCallaghan added:

The actions taken by government and An Garda Siochana to enhance recruitment are proving to be effective. A very high number of people, from a broad range of backgrounds, are applying to become a Garda.

Those who are successful are entering Templemore more quickly than before. I commend An Garda Siochana and publicjobs for their work. They have made changes to their processes which have led to real improvements in how Gardai are recruited. Recruitment into An Garda Siochana is now gathering real momentum.

READ NEXT: ALERT! Irish households warned as SHEIN recalls chargers amid risk of electric shock and fire

We are fortunate to have full employment in our country, but that brings challenges. An Garda Siochana is showing that they can provide people with an commitment to public service with a rewarding career. Over 11,100 people applied to join An Garda Siochana this year. We are also seeing an increase in the number of people applying to re-enter the organisation.

Now, we need to build on these successes. We need to see more Gardai in our towns and villages. I will continue to work with the Garda Commissioner to maintain this increased rate of recruitment and, indeed, build on it. The Government provided An Garda Siochana with a Budget of 2.59 billion for 2026 to support this work.
A protest outside the Dail has called for the inclusion of services in the Occupied Territories Bill, as the Government said it still needs legal clarity on the matter.

Demonstrators called for the urgent passing of the Occupied Territories Bill as they gathered in Molesworth Street outside an entrance to Leinster House on Wednesday evening.

The Governments version of the Bill would limit trade with illegal Israeli settlements, but activists and opposition figures have raised concerns that it would include only trade of goods and not services.

The coalition committed to passing a ban on goods from illegal settlements but Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign chairwoman Zoe Lawlor accused the Government of doing nothing to pass the Bill.

She said: Now, as we approach the Dails Christmas break, there is still silence.

This Bill is a bare minimum action that Ireland should have taken a long time ago  it is astounding to think that it remains stalled.

Earlier in the Dail, People Before Profit representative Richard Boyd Barrett brought a motion calling on the Government to extend the Bill to include services and enact it as a matter of utmost urgency before the end of the year.

He said: This Government speaks out of both sides of its mouth when it comes to the issue of Palestine.

With one breath it states that it stands with the people of Palestine against the crimes that Israel inflicts on them and promises sanctions, and with the other breath it reassures its friends in the White House that it is going to do nothing at all, and the consequence is that despite promises for nearly 10 years on the Occupied Territories Bill, it still has not passed it.

It is bad enough that, since 2018, the Government refuses to pass this Bill to impose sanctions on Israel for the illegal settlements in the West Bank, but then after two years of a genocidal massacre, the fact the Government still refuses to pass this Bill having made solemn promises in the recent general election that it would pass it, and that it is seeking to dilute it by leaving out services from the Bill, is an absolute disgrace.

Thomas Byrne, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, said Ireland is strongly opposed to Israels settlement policy and activities, including in and around East Jerusalem.

He said the Government has no policy issue regarding the inclusion of services, but said the Bill must be legally robust and withstand challenge.

Similarly, the question of implementation must be carefully considered, he said. The trade in services is considerably more complex than goods and there remains considerable legal uncertainty as to whether the inclusion of services is permissible under EU law.

We know for certain the inclusion of goods is permissible under EU law. We need legal clarity on the point on services.

Mr Boyd Barrett said new Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntees decision not to address the Dail on the motion was a studied exercise in contempt designed to make sure that this debate does not get any media coverage.

He called on the Government to do a hell of a lot more and be completely boycotting the state of Israel.

After the Dail passed the motion without opposition from the Government, opposition TDs contended the Government had no intention of doing it.
A glimpse at a racially charged demonstration and increasingly divisive street level rhetoric as this case moves forward . . . Check the latest . . .

Charles Adair died while in custody at the Wyandotte County Jail in July. Deputy Richard Fatherley was placed on unpaid leave after the State of Kansas Coroners Report ruled his death a homicide.



Fatherley received a criminal summons to appear in court, rather than an arrest warrant, which is more commonplace for a person charged with murder. Fatherley has not been booked into jail, and no mugshot is available.



Adairs family and friends gathered outside the Wyandotte County Courthouse Tuesday morning, just hours before Deputy Fatherley appeared in court for the first time.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Family of Kansas City, Kansas, man killed in jail says county has 'two-tiered justice system' Wyandotte County Deputy Richard Fatherley is free while he awaits trial in the July 5 death of Charles Adair, who prosecutors say was killed when Fatherly knelt on his back. Fatherley, who faced his first hearing Tuesday, wasn't required to appear in court in person, which the judge said was standard early in the judicial process when substantive issues aren't heard.
In support of the greatest cash crop boom we've ever witnessed in the modern era . . . This cowtown turns "open city" and loosens regs for legal product and patrons . . .

"A dispensary in an industrial corridor near Front Street and Interstate 435, would be eligible to stay open 24 hours a day under a new zoning amendment."

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

24-hour weed dispensaries? New rule would allow it in some parts of Kansas City It's part of a trend of loosening restrictions on licensed cannabis businesses in recent years.

Skip the paywall and read by way of Internet archive or public library card.
The latest local killing as "progress" against the local rate of killing quickly evaporates.

Here's info the police share with local media . . .

Homicide 8200 block of President Court

Last night at about 10:45 PM Officers were dispatched to the 8200 block of President Court on a sound of shots call. While officers were on the way to the area, the call was upgraded to a shooting call. 911 callers heard the sound of gunfire and believed someone had been shot at the location.

On arrival officers located an adult male shooting victim unresponsive in the parking lot there.



Officers called for EMS, who responded and transported the victim to the hospital for treatment of life-threatening injuries.



Detectives and crime scene investigators responded to the scene to investigate and process the scene for evidence. Detectives canvassed for witnesses and spoke to people in the area at the time officers arrived.



Preliminary investigation indicates the victim had an interaction with one or more suspects in the parking lot at the apartment complex there that led to gunfire that struck the victim. The unknown suspects then left the scene.



Later in the early hours of today's date, detectives were notified that the victim died at the hospital from his injuries. This is now a homicide investigation and the Homicide Unit has taken over the investigation.



If anyone was in the area and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.



We are committed to assisting victims of violent crimes through use of Missouris Protection Program for Victims/Witnesses of Violent Crime. Funding for temporary, or even permanent relocation, may be available but is subject to pre-approval by the States administering agency.

##########





Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Shooting victim dies hours after attack in Kansas City, Missouri Police say the victim was speaking to someone in an apartment complex parking lot shortly before the shooting.
Give and take tonight . . .

We notice the drop in homicides this year is becoming a bit more pronounced. Last year at this time the number was 135 . . . Tonight we unofficially count 126 . . . That's about a 6% drop.

Remember that experts & locals tell us to look at the overall trend line and notice that, tragically, Mayor Q's tenure has been some of the deadliest in KCMO history so there's still A LOT of room for improvement.

Accordingly . . .

Here is the info that police are sharing with local media tonight . . .

Homicide Gregory and Prospect

Tonight at 8:40pm officers were dispatched to the convenience store in the 7000 block of prospect on a shooting call.



On arrival officers were led inside the store where they located an adult male shooting victim, unresponsive on the ground.



Officers rendered aid and called for EMS to come to the scene. EMS declared the victim deceased here at the scene.



Homicide detectives and crime scene investigators are now at the scene beginning their homicide investigation. Detectives are canvassing for witnesses and talking to people who were at the scene when officers initially arrived. Crime scene investigators are processing the scene for evidence to give detectives a better idea of what led up to the shooting.



Preliminary information indicates that there were numerous people inside the store when the victim and a suspect or suspects had an interaction that escalated, eventually to gunfire, which struck the victim.



There are not any suspects identified or in custody at this time and the investigation is ongoing.



If anyone was in the area and heard or saw anything or has any information they are asked to contact Homicide detectives directly at 816-234-5043 or the TIPS Hotline anonymously at 816-474-TIPS. There is a reward of up to $25,000 for information submitted anonymously to the TIPS hotline.



We are committed to assisting victims of violent crimes through use of Missouris Protection Program for Victims/Witnesses of Violent Crime. Funding for temporary, or even permanent relocation, may be available but is subject to pre-approval by the States administering agency.

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Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

KCTV5: Deadly shooting on Prospect kills 1, KCPD investigating

KSHB: 1 man killed Tuesday night at Gregory Boulevard and Prospect Avenue in Kansas City, Missouri
Again . . . We remind our more reactionary readers . . .

Ideas and how people act upon them can be VERY DANGEROUS and the only way to stop them is with BETTER ideas . . . However, sheets of paper bound together have NEVER hurt anyone.

Here's the word . . .

A Jackson County Circuit Court judge struck down a state law criminalizing school employees for supplying sexually explicit material to students, ruling it unconstitutionally vague and overbroad in a five-page decision Monday.



This is a real victory for all library professionals who are trained to select age-appropriate, developmentally appropriate material for students in both public and private schools, Gillian Wilcox, the ACLU of Missouris director of litigation said

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com link . . .

MoIndie: Missouri court strikes down 2022 law that pulled library books off shelves




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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Elchin Amirbayov, Representative of the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan on special assignments, held meetings with Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali, President Taye Atske Selassie, Speaker of Parliament Tagesse Chafo, and Minister of Foreign Affairs Gedion Timotheos, Trend reports.

During the talks, the current state of relations between the two countries and opportunities for their development were discussed in detail. Emphasizing that our country attaches particular importance to expanding ties with the African continent, Elchin Amirbayov expressed satisfaction with the recent dynamic development of cooperation with Ethiopia in various areas at the bilateral and multilateral levels and informed the other side of the significant potential for improving relations.

The President's representative noted the special significance of the meeting between the presidents of the two countries, which took place last November in Baku within the framework of the Conference of the Parties (COP29). Recalling that specific areas of bilateral cooperation were identified at the above-mentioned meeting, Amirbayov expressed Azerbaijan's readiness to continue cooperation with Ethiopia in organizing subsequent mutual visits by high-level delegations. In this regard, attention was drawn to President Ilham Aliyev's invitation to the Prime Minister of Ethiopia to visit Azerbaijan.

Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali expressed his gratitude to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, for the invitation and stated that he would be delighted to visit our country. Highly appreciating Azerbaijan's activities in various areas in Ethiopia, the Prime Minister emphasized that he considers our country a reliable and sincere friend, and expressed his gratitude to the official Baku for its contribution to improving the quality of public services in the country, especially through the implementation of the ASAN Khidmet model. The Prime Minister noted the vast potential for deepening cooperation between our countries in the fields of agriculture, mining, education, defense and military industries, renewable energy, trade, and investment, and expressed his readiness to cooperate closely with Azerbaijan in all these areas.

The Prime Minister also mentioned Azerbaijan's successful experience at the COP29 conference and asked to provide substantial support in organizing the COP32 conference in Ethiopia. Elchin Amirbayov, in turn, congratulated the other side on its decision to chair the COP32 conference and stressed that Azerbaijan is ready to exchange experience and information with Ethiopia in organizing the event.

During the meeting, the officials conveyed their sincere congratulations to the Azerbaijani side on the progress achieved in the process of normalizing relations with Armenia, and also expressed their deep respect and best wishes to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev.

President Taye Atske Selassie, recalling his sincere and fruitful meeting with the President of Azerbaijan in Baku last year, noted that this exchange of views gave an important impetus to the development of relations between the two countries at a new stage. The President expressed his readiness to provide all-around support for the development of bilateral relations with Azerbaijan, which he considers his friend.

Foreign Minister Gedion Timotheos expressed interest in enriching the legal framework for cooperation with Azerbaijan as a loyal partner and expanding this cooperation in new practical areas.

During a meeting with Speaker of Parliament Tagesse Chafo, Amirbayov touched upon the importance of interparliamentary contacts for strengthening relations between the peoples. The Speaker highly appreciated the positive dynamics observed recently in bilateral parliamentary cooperation through friendship groups and expressed interest in expanding inter-parliamentary interaction in bilateral and multilateral formats.

Amirbayov also held a meeting with African Union Commission Chairperson Mahamoud Ali Youssouf during his visit. During the meeting, Amirbayov informed the chairperson of the invitation extended by President of the Republic of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev to participate in the 13th session of the World Forum of Cities. It was noted that the development of relations with the member states of the African Union is one of the priorities of Azerbaijan's chairmanship of the Non-Aligned Movement.

In turn, his colleague expressed gratitude for Azerbaijan's humanitarian assistance to countries on the African continent, as well as for its sincere and valuable support in the areas of digital innovation, transformation of public services, healthcare, education, advanced communications, and a number of other areas. The chairman noted his readiness to work on institutionalizing relations with our country. In the course of the meeting, the intention was expressed to prepare a forward-looking framework agreement aimed at expanding strategic relations between the African Union and Azerbaijan.

During the talks, Amirbayov provided the Ethiopian side with detailed information on the work done to normalize relations between Azerbaijan and Armenia and the measures taken to ensure sustainable peace in the region. In this context, the strategic importance of the Zangezur Corridor, including the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity, was explained in terms of strengthening the transit potential of the South Caucasus, as well as its contribution to ensuring peace and security in the region.

The President's Special Representative gave an extensive presentation on the Azerbaijan-African Union, as well as Azerbaijan-Ethiopia relations, geopolitical processes in the South Caucasus, Azerbaijan's role in the middle corridor and the North-South transport corridor, organized by the Institute of External Relations, one of Ethiopia's leading think tanks, and noted that the participants answered their questions.

In the course of the meetings, Elchin Amirbayov informed his interlocutors in detail about the destruction of Azerbaijan's cultural heritage monuments as a result of Armenia's nearly 30-year occupation policy and the large-scale mine problem in our country, and also presented them with publications on these topics.

As part of his visit, Elchin Amirbayov also gave an interview to the influential Ethiopian media organization FANA TV.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. On November 20-21, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan will pay an official visit to Astana. During the talks, the sides will discuss economic cooperation and strategic directions for engagement. For Yerevan, the visit represents an opportunity to strengthen resource supplies and explore new transport routes through the region.

Today, Armenia is almost entirely dependent on imports. The majority of supplies come from Russia, the countrys largest trading partner. In the first eight months of 2025, trade between the two countries amounted to about $4.5 billion, roughly one-third of Armenias total foreign trade turnover for that period (around $13 billion in total). More than half of this sum, over $2.7 billion, was spent on importing key food products, industrial equipment, and machinery. By comparison, trade with the EU during the same period reached about $1.3 billion, and with China - less than $900 million.

Supplies of machinery and equipment, vehicles, food products, and chemicals are especially crucial for Armenia. These goods are essential for the functioning of the economy and daily life, and most still come from Russia. This dependence makes the country vulnerable to external shocks, increases the risk of delays and additional costs, and limits its ability to respond quickly to market changes.

In this context, direct deliveries from Kazakhstan become a strategic option for Armenia. Such a route would shorten delivery times, reduce costs, and minimize risks associated with transit through third countries. Grain, industrial goods, and energy resources from Kazakhstan could provide a reliable alternative, ensuring stability and economic security.

Already today, thanks to Azerbaijan, Yerevan receives Kazakh wheat. Baku has played a key role in organizing transit, allowing goods to pass through its transport network. Speaking during a press statement with Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev on October 21, President Ilham Aliyev announced that Azerbaijan has lifted all restrictions on the transit of goods to Armenia that had been in place since the occupation. "I believe this is a clear indication that peace between Azerbaijan and Armenia exists not only on paper but also in practice," President Ilham Aliyev said.

The first train carrying Kazakh wheat, traveling through Russia, Azerbaijan, and Georgia, has already arrived in Yerevan. The national grain operator reported that a 15-car train carrying around 1,000 tons successfully tested the new route. Looking ahead, Azerbaijan is expected to become a reliable transport corridor for regular deliveries, with monthly grain volumes potentially reaching 15,00020,000 tons.

Deliveries remain challenging: cargo passes through several countries, increasing transportation costs and the risk of delays. Currently, goods from Kazakhstan travel through Azerbaijan, then by rail to Georgia, and pass through an additional customs checkpoint when entering Armenia. For strategic cargoes, such as millet, this results in significant costs.

For Armenia, a faster and more direct route is crucial, and this is where the TRIPP project (The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity) comes into play. This transport corridor, which will be part of the Middle Corridor, will connect China and Central Asia with Europe, doubling transportation volumes and providing access to Turkiye and the Mediterranean.

The importance of Baku for regional transport and economic links has long been recognized. Azerbaijans recent inclusion as a full participant in Central Asias advisory meetings is further confirmation of this fact. Today, Baku serves as a key logistics hub: its ports, railways, airports, and Caspian fleet enable the handling and transportation of large volumes of cargo from East to West and back.

The TRIPP project can only be realized if a peace agreement is reached between Yerevan and Baku. Only then will Armenia gain access to international infrastructure and economic benefits. Positive signals have already come from the Armenian side: Pashinyan has stated that by mid-2026, the legal framework for the project is expected to be finalized, with construction of the railway to begin by the end of the year, followed by power lines and a gas pipeline along the route.

Thus, Pashinyans visit to Astana has several strategic goals: strengthening economic cooperation with Kazakhstan, expanding supplies of food and industrial goods, supporting infrastructure projects, and demonstrating readiness to improve relations with neighboring countries in practice.

However, the key takeaway is clear: without Azerbaijan, none of these plans can succeed. Any major transit project in the region, including TRIPP, is impossible without Baku, which controls strategically important routes and infrastructure. Azerbaijan has already created the necessary conditions, but requires, in return, the signing of a peace agreement and security guarantees.

It appears that Yerevan is signaling its willingness to act constructively, sending positive signals to the international community and showing readiness for practical cooperation. Pashinyan can negotiate with Kazakhstan and other partners, explore new routes and investments, but without Baku, these initiatives will remain on paper. Without Azerbaijan, no route will become a reality, no delivery will be optimized, and no infrastructure project will be implemented.

The success of Pashinyans visit to Astana hinges on progress in the Yerevan-Baku relationship: without a peace agreement with Azerbaijan, any further steps will remain only words and declarations, no matter how strategically significant the visit to Kazakhstan may be for Armenia.
Nvidia (NVDA) is set to release its fiscal Q3 2026 earnings on Nov. 19 after the close of markets. The worlds most valuable company's earnings are always an event worth watching, but even more so this time around, as the artificial intelligence (AI) rally is getting tested.

While AI bubble chatter has been an intermittent theme, many, including Michael Burry of Big Short fame, have made some serious allegations and accused the Big Tech giants of accounting fraud by understating their depreciation by extending the useful life of their computing assets, predominantly Nvidia chips. Burry, who subsequently deregistered his Scion Asset Management, disclosed a short position on Nvidia in Q3.

More News from Barchart

www.barchart.com

Coming back to Nvidias earnings, while no one really expects it to miss the estimates that tend to be conservative, the stocks post-earnings price action often tends to diverge from the beat. Even after the fiscal Q2 earnings release, NVDA shares fell following the conference call only to rise to new record highs ahead of the next report. Could it be the same story this time around, or should you buy the stock ahead of the Q3 report? Lets explore, beginning with the earnings estimates.

Nvidia Q3 Earnings Estimates

Analysts expect Nvidia to report revenues of $54.94 billion in fiscal Q3, which is slightly higher than the $54 billion that the company guided at the midpoint. The companys earnings per share (EPS) are also projected to rise by 50% to $1.17.

www.barchart.com

What to Watch in Nvidias Earnings?

There would be numerous things that I would be watching in Nvidias earnings this time around. These include:
Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Azerbaijan

BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Azerbaijans Foreign Minister Jeyhun Bayramov met with U.S. Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker on November 19 to discuss regional and global security issues, Trend reports via the Azerbaijani Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The meeting covered the current state and prospects of Azerbaijan-U.S. bilateral cooperation, the Azerbaijan-Armenia peace process, and broader regional and global security concerns.

The officials recalled agreements reached during the historic Washington meeting in August, emphasizing the importance of joint efforts to advance the strategic partnership between the two countries. Strengthening cooperation on regional stability, energy security, and the expansion of transport corridors was highlighted. In this context, Azerbaijan expressed interest in the accelerated implementation of the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), aimed at ensuring seamless connectivity between Azerbaijan proper and its Nakhchivan Autonomous Republic.

The meeting also reviewed the activities of a Strategic Working Group tasked with drafting a Strategic Partnership Charter to reinforce collaboration in areas of mutual interest and stressed the need to establish an institutional framework for practical bilateral cooperation.

Discussions included peace and stability in the South Caucasus and plans for multilateral and bilateral platforms.

Minister Bayramov briefed his counterpart on the measures taken within the framework of the normalization process, as well as on post-conflict recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Regional developments in the Middle East and other areas of mutual concern were also addressed.

The Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP) is a proposed transportation corridor in Armenia designed to connect mainland Azerbaijan with the Nakhchivan exclave, perhaps establishing a direct link between Turkiye and the Caspian Sea. The initiative is a component of a U.S.-facilitated peace agreement between Armenia and Azerbaijan, with the objective of establishing new infrastructure for roads, trains, and additional transportation connections.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. National Leader of the Turkmen People, Chairman of the Halk Maslakhaty of Turkmenistan Gurbanguly Berdimuhamedov has sent a congratulatory letter to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Ilham Aliyev, Trend reports.

"Dear Ilham Heydar oglu,

Dear brother,

I sincerely and wholeheartedly congratulate You, and through you the entire people of Azerbaijan, on the unanimously adopted decision of the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia, On the full-fledged participation of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia!

Undoubtedly, this event is of historic significance. It marks the transformation of Central Asia and Azerbaijan into a unified geopolitical and geoeconomic space, thereby creating a strong union of our peoples and states based on brotherhood, good-neighborliness, equality, and cooperation, as well as a sound understanding of our shared and inseparable historical destinies.

I am firmly convinced that the adopted decision is absolutely natural, objectively reflecting the historical trajectory of development of the Central Asian countries and Azerbaijan, their vital needs, and their true interests.

For many centuries, our peoples have been united by geographic proximity, common civilizational roots, and the closeness of culture, traditions, and spiritual values. In this way, a unique archetype of relations has been formedone that, in todays conditions of independence, constitutes a powerful factor in shaping current and future continental developments in politics and the economy, as well as the social and humanitarian spheres.

It is Central Asia and Azerbaijan that are destined to become a key link in transcontinental, multi-vector interconnectedness, without which the creation of a balanced, successful, and sustainable architecture of the modern economy is inconceivable. The participation of your country in achieving this magnificent goal is now reinforced by an additional solid political and legal foundation.

Dear Brother,

The Consultative Meeting format serves as a vital platform for ensuring peace, trust, harmony, good-neighborliness, and mutually beneficial partnership for all its participants. I am proud that Turkmenistan stood at the very origins of this form of political cooperation. The initiative to establish the Consultative Meeting, put forward by our country, was announced and received full support more than fifteen years ago in Uzbekistan.

The first official Consultative Meeting in Kazakhstan became the next important step, laying the conceptual foundations of multilateral dialogue and defining its long-term objectives and prospects.

Subsequent meetings were held as planned in Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan. They provided an atmosphere of trust and openness in which key issues of intra-regional cooperation and the international agenda were discussed, and important decisions and agreements were reached. Time has confirmed the relevance, effectiveness, and necessity of this format and its alignment with the fundamental interests of all participating states.

A new stage in strengthening understanding and recognizing the importance and prestige of the Consultative Meeting was the establishment of the Honorary Badge of the Heads of State of Central Asia, the first recipient of which became the President of the Republic of Tajikistan.

Esteemed Ilham Heydar oglu,

It is a matter of particular pride and honor for me that at the Third UN Conference on Landlocked Developing Countries, held this August in the national tourist zone of Awaza, an extraordinary Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia was convened at Turkmenistans initiative. It was at this meeting that Turkmenistan proposed that Azerbaijan join the Consultative Meetings as a full-fledged member and thereby become an important participant in this format, further strengthening its ties and comprehensive integration with the family of brotherly nations.

I am deeply pleased to note that this initiative received full support from the presidents of the Central Asian states in Tashkent, becoming an exceptionally significant and promising step in our joint movement toward shared prosperity.

I am convinced that Azerbaijans accession to the Consultative Meetingconsidering the political authority of your country, its immense resource, industrial, and technological potential, and its achievements in the cultural and humanitarian sphereswill become a defining factor in further strengthening relations between our countries and peoples. It will also act as a stimulus to promote active engagement in modern regional and international development processes and enhance the role and standing of the Central Asian states and Azerbaijan on the global stage as responsible, united partners who understand their worthy place in the world and are prepared to work together to achieve common goals.

We look forward to welcoming You, esteemed Ilham Heydar oglu, as a dear brother and friend, at next years 8th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia and Azerbaijan in Turkmenistan.

Once again, please accept my most sincere congratulations.

I wish You robust health, long life, and continued success in your state and international activities, and I wish the brotherly people of Azerbaijan peace, happiness, prosperity, and progress," reads the letter.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 20. Today marks the Aghdam City Day in Azerbaijan, Trend reports.

Thus, Aghdam City Day is solemnly celebrated on November 20 every year, following the decree signed by President Ilham Aliyev on July 31, 2023.

As a result of Azerbaijan's brilliant victory in the Patriotic War, Aghdam was liberated from the Armenian occupation. Today marks 5 years since the liberation.

As a result of the historic victory of Azerbaijan in the 44-day Patriotic War on November 20, the Aghdam region was transferred to the Azerbaijani side on the basis of a tripartite statement signed by the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, the Prime Minister of the Republic of Armenia and the President of the Russian Federation.

Thus, the Agdam district, liberated from occupation on November 20, came under the control of the Azerbaijani army. In the center of the city of Aghdam, the State Flag of Azerbaijan was raised, the National Anthem was played and this was reported to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces Ilham Aliyev.

As a result of military aggression that lasted until May 12, 1994, Armenians occupied 846.7 square kilometers of the territory of the Aghdam region, that is, 77.4 percent of its total territory. Over more than five years, 5897 became martyrs in the bloody battles for the defense of Aghdam. In those battles, 3531 people became disabled, 1871 children lost their parents. More than 126 thousand Aghdam residents were forced to leave their homes.

Aghdam has many architectural and artistic monuments with ancient history. The territory of Aghdam district includes the 19th century tomb, the Khanoglu tomb, the Panah Ali Khan tomb, the Panah Ali Khan palace, two chest-shaped monuments, the Sardaba and Hatem Malik castles dating back to the 15th century, the Juma Mosque and the Shahbulag Mosque.

After the liberation of Agdam from occupation, restoration and reconstruction work began in this city destroyed by Armenians, called the Hiroshima of the Caucasus. In the 4 years since its liberation from occupation, many positive changes have taken place in Agdam, and restoration and reconstruction work continues at a rapid pace. The goal is to make Agdam one of the most beautiful cities in the region. The general plan for the city of Agdam has already been prepared and presented, and work is underway to implement this plan.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 18. The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, who is accused under articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan related to crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious crimes, continued on 18 November, Trend reports.

An open court session was held at the Baku Military Court under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov on the panel (reserve judge: Gunel Samadova). The accused was provided with an interpreter in the language he understands (Russian) as well as a state-funded defense lawyer.

Judge Zeynal Agayev introduced the panel of judges, the prosecutors upholding the state accusation, the interpreters, and others to the victims and legal successors of victims who were participating in the hearing for the first time, and explained their rights and obligations as provided for by law.

It was then noted that during one of the previous sessions, the accused Ruben Vardanyan had filed a motion objecting to the interpreter Islam Agakarimov, who had previously participated in the preparatory court session. It was stated that Islam Agakarimov had been summoned and was present at todays hearing.

Both the accused Ruben Vardanyan and his defense lawyer Emil Babishov requested that the court grant their objection.

Islam Agakarimov stated that he had translated the decision of the preparatory court session and that there had been only one mechanical error in that translation, which did not affect the substance of the decision, did not lead to any changes, and did not distort its meaning in any way. In response to a question from presiding judge Zeynal Agayev, Agakarimov said the error had occurred accidentally and mechanically and that he had not made it intentionally.

Nasir Bayramov, head of the department at the Prosecutor Generals Office responsible for upholding the state accusation, noted that the defense had raised this motion several times before. Due to valid reasons, the interpreter had been unable to attend previous hearings, so it had not been possible to ascertain his position earlier. At todays session, the interpreter confirmed that the error was mechanical and technical in nature and was not committed deliberately.

Prosecutor Bayramov emphasized that, under the Criminal Procedure Code, an objection to an interpreter can be considered justified and granted only on grounds explicitly listed in the law. A mechanical or technical error is not among those grounds. He therefore requested the court to reject the defenses objection to the interpreter.

After hearing the parties, the court retired to deliberate. Upon returning, the court announced its decision: the objection was not upheld.

The court stressed that the grounds for challenging an interpreter in criminal proceedings are specifically defined by criminal procedure legislation, and none of those grounds were found to apply to Islam Agakarimov in the present case.

Following this, the testimonies of the victims were heard.

In response to questions from state prosecutor Vusal Abdullayev, victim Jamil Aliyev stated that while in Cheragdar village of Aghdara district, he, Bahram Allahyarov and Murad Verdiyev sustained various injuries as a result of the explosion of an anti-tank guided missile fired by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups. Shikar Huseynov, who was with them at the time, was killed.

Victim Intiqam Rustamli said that in the territory of Khojavand district, as a result of a provocation by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups, he and one other person were injured.

In response to questions from state prosecutor Tarana Mammadova, victim Etibar Aliyev stated that while travelling with journalists in the area of Susuzluq village in Kalbajar district, the vehicle he was driving hit a mine planted by the enemy, causing an explosion. As a result, AZRTAC correspondent Maharram Ibrahimov, camera operator Siraj Abishov of Azerbaijan Television and Radio Broadcasting CJSC, and Arif Aliyev, deputy representative of the head of Kalbajar District Executive Power for the Susuzluq village administrative territorial district, were killed, while he himself and three other people sustained bodily injuries of varying severity.

Victim Allahverdi Mammadli stated that he was wounded in Khojavand district when a grenade thrown by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups exploded near him.

In response to questions from Tughay Rahimli, assistant to the Prosecutor General on special assignments, victim Nahid Asadov said that he was injured in Khojavand district as a result of the explosion of a projectile fired by the enemy.

Victim Elshan Rustamov stated that an explosion occurred while he was clearing mines planted by the enemy in Jabrayil district, and he sustained various injuries as a result.

Victim Shahmar Jalilov said that in the Aghdara direction, the vehicle in which they were travelling was hit by rocket fire from remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups; he was injured and one person was killed.

In response to questions from state prosecutor Fuad Musayev, victim Umid Shukurov stated that several people were killed and he and several others sustained various injuries as a result of an enemy provocation in Kalbajar.

Victim Novruz Aliyev said that he was wounded in Yellijah village of Kalbajar district as a result of a provocation carried out by the enemy using drones.

In response to questions from Nasir Bayramov, head of the department at the Prosecutor Generals Office responsible for upholding the state accusation, victim Eynulla Nasirli stated that he was injured in the Khojaly direction as a result of fire opened by remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups.

Another victim, Yusif Yusifov, said that in the territory of Aghdam district, as a result of sniper fire from remnants of the Armenian armed forces and illegal Armenian armed groups, Ikhtiyar Bayramov was killed and he himself was injured.

The court session then continued with the examination of documents and other evidence contained in the criminal case file.

The next court hearing has been scheduled for 20 November.

Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 18. The trial of Armenian citizen Ruben Vardanyan, who is accused under articles of the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan related to crimes against peace and humanity, war crimes, terrorism, financing of terrorism, and other serious crimes, continued on 18 November, Trend reports.

An open court session was held at the Baku Military Court under the chairmanship of Judge Zeynal Agayev, with judges Anar Rzayev and Jamal Ramazanov on the panel (reserve judge: Gunel Samadova). The accused was provided with an interpreter in the language he understands (Russian) as well as a state-funded defense lawyer.

Judge Zeynal Agayev introduced the panel of judges, the prosecutors upholding the state accusation, the interpreters, and others to the victims and legal successors of victims who were participating in the hearing for the first time, and explained their rights and obligations as provided for by law.

It was then noted that during one of the previous sessions, the accused Ruben Vardanyan had filed a motion objecting to the interpreter Islam Agakarimov, who had previously participated in the preparatory court session. It was stated that Islam Agakarimov had been summoned and was present at todays hearing.

Both the accused Ruben Vardanyan and his defense lawyer Emil Babishov requested that the court grant their objection.

The next court hearing has been scheduled for 20 November.

Ruben Vardanyan faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan, including Articles 100.1, 100.2 (planning, preparing, initiating, and waging a war of aggression), 107 (deportation and forced displacement of the population), 109 (persecution), 110 (forcible disappearance of persons), 112 (deprivation of liberty contrary to international law), 113 (torture), 114.1 (mercenary activity), 115.2 (violation of the laws and customs of warfare), 116.0.1, 116.0.2, 116.0.10, 116.0.11, 116.0.16, 116.0.18 (violation of international humanitarian law norms during an armed conflict), 120.2.1, 120.2.3, 120.2.4, 120.2.7, 120.2.11, 120.2.12 (intentional murder), 29.120.2.1, 29.120.2.3, 29.120.2.4, 29.120.2.7, 29.120.2.11, 29.120.2.12 (attempted intentional murder), 192.3.1 (illegal entrepreneurship), 214.2.1, 214.2.3, 214.2.4 (terrorism), 214-1 (financing of terrorism), 218.1, 218.2 (creation of a criminal group), 228.3 (illegal acquisition, transfer, sale, storage, transportation, and possession of firearms, ammunition, explosives, and devices), 270-1.2, 270-1.4 (acts threatening aviation safety), 278.1 (forcible seizure or retention of power, forcible change of the constitutional structure of the state), 279.1, 279.2, 279.3 (creation of armed formations not provided for by law), and 318.2 (illegal crossing of the state border of the Republic of Azerbaijan).
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. A meeting of the leaders of the Red Crescent Network of the member states of the Organization of Turkic-speaking States (OTS) was held in Baku, Trend reports..

In addition to the Red Crescent societies of Turkiye, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Kyrgyzstan, which are members of the network, the event was attended by observers from the Red Crescent societies of Turkmenistan and the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus.

The main purpose of the meeting was to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the activities of the Turkish Red Crescent Network for 2025, assess the results achieved in the field of cooperation between national member societies in the humanitarian sphere, and develop an Action Plan for 2026.

Speaking at the event, President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, MP Novruz Aslan, emphasized that cooperation between the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society and the Turkish Red Crescent during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Second Karabakh War, as well as during the earthquake in Turkiye, has become one of the most striking examples of humanitarian harmony in the Turkic world.

He noted that joint activities with the Turkish Red Crescent are the strategic basis for humanitarian harmony in the Turkic world and are measured not only by the amount of aid provided:

This cooperation has shown that in the face of natural disasters, war, or pandemics, the peoples of the Turkic world are united not only by geographical proximity, but also by humanistic values and spiritual ties.

Aslan added that in recent years, cooperation between the Red Crescent societies of the Turkic states has become even more intensive. In particular, joint humanitarian training sessions have been held, mutual assistance mechanisms in emergency situations have been established, and exchanges of experience and volunteer participation in joint projects have been organized.

He also emphasized that this year marks the 105th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society.

The joint activities of the Red Crescent societies of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Hungary, and Cyprus create the basis for the formation of humanitarian diplomacy, Aslan added.

OTS Secretary General Kubanychbek Omuraliev stated that the organization plans to develop a Memorandum of Understanding with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to deepen humanitarian cooperation, which will make a significant contribution to the future activities of the Turkic network.

He emphasized that humanitarian cooperation is the golden principle of the organization.

Among this [cooperation], humanitarian cooperation is the golden principle, reminding us why we came together. Not only for development, but also to care, protect, and serve, the secretary-general said.

He stressed that the creation of the Red Crescent Network, based on the Memorandum of Understanding signed in October 2024 in Bishkek, laid the foundation for a powerful humanitarian alliance inspired by compassion and shared cultural values. Among the key achievements, the Secretary General mentioned the signing of a multilateral agreement on the creation of the Civil Protection Mechanism, which took place during the OIC summit in Bishkek in November 2024.

According to him, this legal mechanism significantly strengthens the collective ability of member states to respond to emergencies and natural disasters, allowing the Turkic network to operate more effectively in times of crisis.

Omuraliev noted that the meeting is taking place at a time when the world is facing serious challenges, with an increase in conflicts, divisions, and polarization, and stability and security becoming increasingly fragile. At the same time, the devastating effects of climate change, including earthquakes, floods, forest fires, and droughts, are becoming more frequent and severe, underscoring the urgent need for a coordinated response.

"In this context, the mission of the Red Crescent Network becomes vital, as it embodies the centuries-old values of the Turkic peoples: generosity, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity. I am confident that the results of today's meeting will be a turning point in the development of humanitarian cooperation between the OTS countries and will raise it to a new level," the Secretary General added.

In addition, Yerkebek Argymbayev, President of the Red Crescent Society of Kazakhstan, noted in his speech that cooperation in the humanitarian sphere between the Red Crescent and Red Cross societies of the member states of the Organization of Turkic States is necessary to provide assistance to victims of major emergencies as well as to vulnerable segments of the population.

He stressed that the main goal of creating a Turkic network is to unite the efforts of societies for mutual assistance in the event of large-scale crises, whether they be climate change, natural or man-made disasters, or armed conflicts.

In order to fulfill this mission, we need to strengthen our capacity to become stronger and more active in helping our citizens and countries in need, he said.

Of special significance, according to the president of the Red Crescent Society of Kazakhstan, is the presence at the event of the Secretary General of the OIC, Kubanychbek Omuraliev. He noted that national societies are established in accordance with the Geneva Conventions to assist their states in resolving specific problems in the humanitarian sphere, and that without the support of states, capacity building is impossible.

Argymbayev expressed confidence that the Baku Declaration, which participants will adopt today, will reflect the moment of addressing the heads of state through the Secretary General of the ICRC.

The event concluded with the signing of the Declaration of the Turkish Red Crescent Network, which confirms cooperation and solidarity between national member societies.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Cooperation between the Red Crescent Societies of the Turkic states has intensified in recent years, President of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society, MP Novruz Aslanov, said at a meeting of the heads of the Red Crescent Network of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) member countries held in Baku today, Trend reports.

According to him, the cooperation demonstrated by the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society and the Turkish Red Crescent during the COVID-19 pandemic and the Second Karabakh War, as well as during the earthquake in Turkiye, has been one of the most striking examples of humanitarian harmony in the Turkic world.

He noted that the joint activities with the Turkish Red Crescent are not only in terms of the amount of aid, but also a strategic pillar of the humanitarian harmony of the Turkic world.

"This cooperation has shown that in the face of challenges such as natural disasters, wars, or pandemics, the Turkic peoples are connected not only by geographical proximity, but also by humanistic values and spiritual ties," the official explained.

Speaking about intensive cooperation between the Red Crescent Societies of the Turkic states in recent years, he pointed out much work done in the direction of joint humanitarian exercises, mutual assistance mechanisms in emergencies, exchange of experience, and participation of volunteers in joint projects.

He also emphasized that this year marks the 105th anniversary of the Azerbaijan Red Crescent Society.

"The joint activities of the National Societies of the Red Crescent Societies of Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Hungary, and Cyprus create the basis for the formation of humanitarian diplomacy," he added.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The Organization of Turkic States (OTS) plans to develop a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) to strengthen humanitarian cooperation, which will make a significant contribution to the future activities of the Turkic Red Crescent Network, said OTS Secretary General Kurbanychbek Omuraliev, Trend reports.

He made the announcement during a meeting of the Red Crescent Network leaders of OTS member states in Baku.

He emphasized that humanitarian cooperation is a golden principle of the organization.

Among this cooperation, humanitarian collaboration is the golden principle, reminding us why we have come together - not only to develop, but to care, protect, and serve, the secretary general said.

Omuraliev highlighted that the creation of the Red Crescent Network, based on the MoU signed in October 2024 in Bishkek, laid the foundation for a strong humanitarian alliance inspired by compassion and shared cultural values. Key achievements include the signing of a multilateral agreement to establish a Civil Protection Mechanism during the OTS summit in Bishkek in November 2024.

According to him, this legal framework significantly enhances the collective capacity of member states to respond to emergencies and natural disasters, allowing the Turkic network to act more effectively in times of crisis.

Omuraliev noted that the meeting comes at a time when the world faces serious challenges, including rising conflicts, disagreements, and polarization, while stability and security are increasingly fragile. At the same time, the devastating effects of climate change - including earthquakes, floods, wildfires, and droughts - are becoming more frequent and severe, underscoring the urgent need for coordinated responses.

In this context, the mission of the Red Crescent Network becomes vital, as it embodies the centuries-old values of Turkic peoples: generosity, compassion, and solidarity in the face of adversity. I am confident that the outcomes of todays meeting will mark a turning point in humanitarian cooperation among OTS countries and elevate it to a new level, the secretary general added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Our meeting today is also aimed at jointly defining our focus areas, shared initiatives, and key messages for 2026, Fatma Meric Ylmaz, President of the Turkish Red Crescent, said at a meeting of Red Crescent Network leaders from the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) in Baku, Trend reports.

She emphasized the need to prioritize areas that will strengthen regional potential.

We discussed this in 2025 as well. Key areas where our network can have a real impact include disaster preparedness and response, development of volunteer systems, bringing together our volunteers, especially youth, and establishing mutual support mechanisms in blood services. In this context, I believe it is very important to focus on more practical and results-oriented joint initiatives for 2026, Ylmaz said.

She also noted that it is customary for the country hosting the OTS Heads of State Summit to assume the organizations chairmanship. I think it is appropriate to continue this practice within to ensure both harmony and the parallel implementation of activities, she said.

Ylmaz proposed a change to the Networks rules of procedure: Under the current rules, the term chairmanship rotates every two years. I propose that going forward, it be rotated annually, Ylmaz added.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Azerbaijan's draft state budget for 2026 allocates 2 billion manat ($1.18 billion) specifically for healthcare expenditures, marking an 11 percent increase compared to the execution figures for 2024, the country's Finance Minister, Sahil Babayev, said during todays plenary session of the parliament, Trend reports.

Speaking at a discussion on the draft law On the State Budget of the Republic of Azerbaijan for 2026, Babayev noted that these funds represent 4.9 percent of total state budget expenditures

The minister added that, in total, 3.7 billion manat ($2.18 billion) from the consolidated budget will be directed to healthcare next year, an increase of 227 million manat ($133.5 million), or 6.4 percent, compared to 2025.
Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) is included among the 15 Best 52-Week Low Dividend Stocks to Invest in.

Canaccord Maintains Buy on Perrigo (PRGO) While Cutting Price Target to $20

Photo by nathan dumlao on Unsplash

On November 6, Canaccord lowered its price target on Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) to $20 from $40, while maintaining a Buy rating on the stock, as reported by The Fly. The firm noted that although Q3 results beat expectations, sales were weaker than anticipated due to soft over-the-counter (OTC) trends and lower nutrition sales, which were affected by slower-than-expected velocities and comparisons to last years period when infant formula sales benefited from retailers stocking up during the port strike.

For the third quarter of 2025, Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) reported revenue of $1.04 billion, a decline of 4.06% compared to the same period last year. Operating income came in at $73 million, down from $80 million in the prior year. President and CEO Patrick Lockwood-Taylor stated that while OTC consumption was soft during the quarter, the company delivered strong in-market performance, gaining dollar, unit, and volume share in five of seven store-brand categories and expanding share in key brands, signaling that consumers continue to choose Perrigo products at the shelf.

In other news, on November 5, Perrigo Company plc (NYSE:PRGO) announced a strategic review of its infant formula business as it shifts focus toward higher-margin branded products. The company is a leading supplier of store-brand baby formula sold under retailers labels at lower prices than branded options. This unit has faced challenges with quality issues at manufacturing facilities, which posed contamination risks.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 28. The next relocation phase to Khidirli village in the Azerbaijan's Aghdam district took place on November 28, Trend reports.

During this stage, 13 families comprising 48 people were presented with the keys to their new homes in Khidirli.

The key-handover ceremony was attended by representatives of the Special Presidential Envoys Office for the districts of Aghdam, Fuzuli, and Khojavend, as well as officials from the State Committee for Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs).

The families returning to Khydyrly had previously been temporarily residing in various parts of the country, mainly in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings.

12:43

The next group of former internally displaced persons (IDPs) has been sent to Khidirli village in the Aghdam district in accordance with the ongoing program of Great Return to the liberated territories by the instructions of President of Azerbaijan Ilham Aliyev, Trend's Karabakh bureau reports.

At this stage, 13 families, comprising 48 individuals, are returning to their native village.

The returning families had been temporarily residing in various parts of the country, mainly in dormitories, sanatoriums, and administrative buildings, over a three-decade span due to the Armenian incursion into these regions.

The residents expressed their gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive state care provided to them.

In addition, the residents extended their sincere appreciation to the Azerbaijani Army for liberating the lands from occupation, honoring the sacrifices made by soldiers and officers, and paying tribute to the martyrs who gave their lives in the struggle for the homeland.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The State Agency for Maritime and Port Services held a meeting with Stefan Psota, the Deputy Representative of the Republic of Austria for Foreign Economic Relations in Turkiye, and Pierpaolo Bettoni, Regional Sales Manager at Frequentis AG, Trend reports.

The meeting provided information on maritime safety, search and rescue operations, the operation of maritime navigation equipment, and the work carried out within the framework of the Vessel Traffic Management System (VTS) in Azerbaijan's territorial waters. Attention was also paid to the coordinated activities of the VTS with the relevant state authorities in the Caspian Sea.

Besides, the information on Azerbaijan's accession to the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA) Convention was presented, and the issues of updating the VTS systems in accordance with international requirements were discussed. The delegation expressed its readiness to provide the necessary technical expert support in this area.

The meeting participants agreed to explore opportunities for cooperation in the field of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) and the Global Maritime Distress and Safety System (GMDSS), as well as to continue exchanging experience.

Advisor to the Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Ship Traffic Management Agency, Habil Abbasov, noted that such meetings contribute significantly not only to expanding interdepartmental cooperation, but also to the further development of friendly relations and cooperation between countries.

In conclusion, the delegation reviewed the activities of the Ship Traffic Management Center, part of a Ship Traffic Management Agency.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 20. A meeting was held with Azerbaijani students studying under the Dual Degree Program implemented by Inha University and Baku Engineering University in the Republic of Korea as part of the Year of the Constitution and Sovereignty and the 5th anniversary of Azerbaijan's glorious Victory, Trend reports via the State Committee on Work with Diaspora.

The meeting, held with the support of the State Committee for Work with the Diaspora, was also attended by Nermin Dadayeva, representative of the Azerbaijan Diaspora Support Fund, and Vusal Zeynalli, employee of the Embassy of the Republic of Azerbaijan in the Republic of Korea.

The students were provided with detailed information about the activities of the committee and the Azerbaijan Diaspora Support Fund, as well as about the large-scale projects being implemented. Proposals and ideas related to the diaspora were also discussed with a view to further expanding the activities of the community and students, and an exchange of views on current issues and prospects took place. The questions they were interested in regarding this area were also answered. Particular attention was paid to the work done by the Azerbaijani diaspora around the world, the activities of diaspora organizations, and the importance of national solidarity.

Students actively participating in the discussions shared their ideas and projects in various fields. It was emphasized that such meetings are of great importance for strengthening the unity of Azerbaijani youth living in South Korea and their integration into the Azerbaijani diaspora.

The event was organized by Humay Jafarli, program director of the Double Degree Program on the Azerbaijani side, as well as active representatives of the Azerbaijani community in South Korea, Leyla Masimli and Aziza Huseynzade.
As part of the ongoing program, a new resettlement convoy has been dispatched to the Girmizi Bazar settlement and Sos village in the Khojavend district.

A total of 89 individuals from 21 families were relocated to Girmizi Bazar, while 80 individuals from 20 families were sent to Sos village through the Alikhanli village checkpoint in the Fuzuli district.

The returning residents expressed their heartfelt gratitude to President Ilham Aliyev and First Vice-President Mehriban Aliyeva for the comprehensive support extended by the state. They also paid tribute to the heroic Azerbaijani Army for liberating their lands, honoring the soldiers and officers who served with valor, and remembering those who made the ultimate sacrifice in the struggle for freedom.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The AzerbaijanU.S. Think Tank Forum held in Baku has marked a significant step in elevating expert dialogue between the two countries to an institutional level, political analyst Azer Garayev told Trend.

Garayev highlighted that this development occurs amidst Azerbaijans ongoing efforts to enhance its soft power, coinciding with the United States clearer articulation of a new regional strategy for the South Caucasus and Central Asia.

"The theme of the forum, 'Bridging Visions: Azerbaijan-United States Dialogue for a Strategic Partnership,' encapsulates two crucial aspects: the commencement of a new chapter in bilateral relations and the growing strategic significance of the partnership in light of shifting global and regional dynamics," he explained.

He also pointed out that the agreements signed between Azerbaijan and Armenia on August 8 have instilled significant optimism, signaling a potential breakthrough toward real and lasting peace in the region for the first time in recent history. Furthermore, he noted that statements from US experts during the event underscored Washington's intention to take on a leading role as a mediator in this process.

A major takeaway from the forum, according to Garayev, was the reinforcement of Azerbaijan's integration with Central Asia. He stressed that the United States no longer intends to rely exclusively on the C5+1 framework, making Azerbaijans deeper involvement in this structure an inevitability. "Azerbaijan plays a pivotal role as a key connector in energy, logistics, transit, and diplomacy, thus fortifying its strategic position within the broader regional context," he added.

The analyst underlined that recent developments, the new post-war reality in the South Caucasus following the 44-day conflict, progress in border delimitation between Armenia and Azerbaijan, and the United States updated approach toward Central Asia, have increased the activity of major powers in the region.

This forum demonstrates the USs growing interest in developments in the South Caucasus and its transition toward a more structured model of cooperation with Azerbaijan. At the same time, the event confirms Bakus strengthening role as an international analytical platform. Baku is no longer only an energy and logistics center but also a hub connecting global expert networks, he said.

Garayev added that the forum serves not only as a platform for exchanging ideas but also as an institutional basis for future large-scale analytical conferences, joint projects, collaborative research, and policy recommendations.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Hikmet Hajiyev, Assistant to the President of the Republic of Azerbaijan and Head of the Foreign Policy Affairs Department of the Presidential Administration, met with the United States delegation led by US Deputy Secretary of State for Political Affairs Allison Hooker, the Presidential Aide wrote on his X page, Trend reports.

"Pleased to meet with the United States delegation led by Allison Hooker, Under Secretary of State for Political Affairs. Our discussions covered a wide range of issues, including the advancement of the ArmeniaAzerbaijan peace agenda and the implementation of regional connectivity initiatives.

We also exchanged views on key regional and global developments, reaffirming the spirit of strategic partnership between Azerbaijan and the United States," the post reads.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. A delegation led by the Vice-Rector of the Turkish National Defense University, Professor Serdar Salman, is on a visit to Azerbaijan, Trend reports via the Ministry of Defense.

The Turkish guests first visited the graves of the National Leader of the Azerbaijani people Heydar Aliyev and prominent ophthalmologist and academician Zarifa Aliyeva in the Alley of Honor, as well as the Alley of Martyrs and Turkish Martyrs' Cemetery. The guests laid wreaths and flowers, as well as paid tribute to their bright memory.

Then at the event held at the War Games Center of Azerbaijan National Defense University, Major General Arif Hasanov delivered a speech and welcomed the guests on behalf of the National Defense Universitys leadership.

Major General Hasanov noted that Azerbaijani-Turkish military cooperation is based on friendly, fraternal, and allied relations and highlighted the benefits the alliance brings to the development of military education in both countries. He also mentioned the positive results of the military education reforms implemented within the Azerbaijan Army.

Professor Salman, in turn, expressed his gratitude for the warm reception and hospitality. He emphasized the importance of mutual visits in terms of exchanging experience.

During the event, a briefing was presented on the establishment history of the National Defense University and its subordinate educational institutions, their education system, training process, and scientific activities.

Ultimately, inquiries of reciprocal significance were addressed.

The Turkish National Defense University (TNDU) is a military higher education institution established in 2016 under the auspices of the Turkish Ministry of National Defence. The major objective is to train and educate officers and non-commissioned officers for the Turkish Armed Forces via academic and military instruction. The institution consists of multiple schools and institutes, including the War schools, and provides programs ranging from bachelor's to doctoral degrees.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The captain of an Airbus A350 flying Finnairs BangkokHelsinki route called in for permission to touch down at Heydar Aliyev International Airport due to an emergency situation, Trend reports via the Heydar Aliyev International Airport.

The cause was a health hiccup that cropped up for one of the passengers mid-flight.

The crew made an immediate operational decision to divert the flight to Baku, and the aircraft successfully landed at Heydar Aliyev International Airport at 19:44 local time.

The airports medical service promptly provided first aid to the passenger, and the necessary medical procedures regarding the passengers condition are currently ongoing.

Heydar Aliyev International Airport continues to carry out operational coordination in accordance with international requirements, ensuring flight safety and passenger well-being across all flights.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs of Albania, Elisa Spiropali, welcomed in Tirana the Foreign Minister of the Federal Republic of Germany, Johann Wadephul, who is conducting a tour in Albania, Trend reports citing the Albanian Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs.

During the bilateral meeting, the German minister emphasized the progress that Albania and Montenegro have made regarding vital reforms for the EU accession process, particularly in the field of the rule of law.

Minister Spiropali expressed to her counterpart her gratitude for the unwavering political and technical support that Germany has provided to Albania on its European path.

According to Spiropali, Germany has always maintained a fair and merit-based approach to the enlargement process, keeping it alive even in difficult moments and making it credible for Albania and for other countries of the region.

Both ministers shared the conviction that the Western Balkans are a natural and irreplaceable part of the European family.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Lithuanian Foreign Minister Kestutis Budrys participated in the Berlin Security Conference on November 18, joining a high-level discussion titled The North: From the Baltic States to the Arctic Circle  Threats, Risks, and Mitigation, Trend reports via the Lithuanian MFA.

During the panel discussion, Minister Budrys emphasized the growing strategic significance of the Arctic for Euro-Atlantic security, stressing the need for a unified Allied approach to address regional challenges. He pointed out that developments in the High North have direct implications for the Baltic region, highlighting that any instability in the Arctic could have immediate repercussions on maritime routes, military mobility, and the security of critical infrastructure.

Budrys also drew attention to the emergence of hybrid threats in the northern region, such as electronic interference, cyber risks, and activities that may undermine freedom of navigation. He underscored that the NATO membership of Sweden and Finland now links the Baltic Sea and the Arctic into a cohesive strategic continuum, thereby enhancing collective defense preparedness.

The minister further noted that China's growing presence in the Arctic, promoted by Beijing as economic and scientific cooperation, is increasingly pertinent to regional security. According to Budrys, China's involvement in Arctic infrastructure, mineral resources, and research initiatives necessitates vigilant monitoring and coordinated assessment among NATO Allies.

Budrys welcomed the fact that NATO is already taking active steps to strengthen its posture in the region, including enhanced air defense, intelligence, and maritime surveillance. He highlighted Allied investments in ice-capable vessels, Arctic-trained forces, and joint exercises, stressing that Lithuania supports these measures.

He further underlined the strong cooperation between the Nordic and Baltic countries in assessing risks and harmonizing response tools. Budrys stated that the Baltic regions extensive experience in addressing hybrid threats, protecting underwater infrastructure, and maintaining robust maritime surveillance is directly applicable to strengthening security in the Arctic.
The dispute erupted in September when the Dutch government effectively took control of Nexperia (JOHN THYS)

The Netherlands said Wednesday it had suspended its proposed takeover of Chinese-owned chip maker Nexperia in a sign of "good will", a move China welcomed as a positive "first step".

The two sides are moving to resolve a dispute that erupted in September when the Dutch government effectively took control of Nexperia, which is based in the Netherlands but whose parent company is China's Wingtech.

China responded by banning re-exports of the firm's chips, triggering warnings from carmakers that their factories could grind to a halt without the components Nexperia supplies, which are critical to onboard electronics.

The Netherlands stepped back from its position after Beijing announced over the weekend it would exempt some chips from the export ban -- reportedly part of a trade deal agreed by President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump.

Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans said Wednesday that "in light of recent developments" he considered it "the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Law regarding Nexperia".

It was the first time the Dutch had invoked the Goods Availability Law -- a Cold War-era law designed to keep vital supplies flowing during wartime.

"China welcomes the Dutch side's initiative to suspend the administrative order, considering it the first step in the right direction towards properly resolving the issue," a commerce ministry spokesperson said in a statement.

The takeover has been suspended rather than cancelled, and the minister can reinstate the measure later.

- National security -

The dispute between China and the Netherlands is part of a wider global battle for control of the supply of semiconductors, the tiny components used across many industries and electronic products.

Karremans said the Netherlands was "positive" about China's recent moves to ensure chip supply to Europe and the rest of the world.

"We see this as a show of good will," he said of his move to suspend the takeover, vowing to continue talking to Chinese officials.

The move was welcomed around Europe, with EU trade commissioner Maros Sefcovic saying it was "another key step in stabilising our strategic chip supply chains".

Germany, a global centre for car making, also approved, with an economy ministry spokeswoman telling reporters in Berlin that "the situation is easing".

However, China's commerce ministry spokesperson warned there was "still a gap in addressing the root cause of the turbulence and chaos in the global semiconductor supply chain".
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The 10th LithuanianPolish Roundtable Forum commenced in Vilnius on November 18, convening a diverse group of experts and policymakers to engage in discussions on the evolution of political thought within their respective countries, Trend reports via the Lithuanian MFA.

The forum provided a platform for the exchange of perspectives on critical issues of security, transatlantic cooperation, and the broader European Union agenda

Deputy Foreign Minister Sigitas Mitkus welcomed participants, noting that todays complex political environment provides a new context and importance for the event.

Lithuania and Poland are more than neighboring states sharing a border  we are allies and close partners. Our countries face very similar threats and challenges. It is especially important today to remain united, maintain a strong dialogue, and take decisions that strengthen our defense, security, competitiveness, transatlantic ties, and societal resilience, Mitkus said.

The two-day forum aims to provide a platform for experts and the academic community to share insights, deepen understanding of the political realities in Lithuania and Poland, and assess future developments.

We, Lithuania and Poland, understand the value of freedom. That is why cooperation between our countries in defense and security, border protection, and efforts to counter disinformation and attempts to distort history is more important than ever, Mitkus emphasized.

The longstanding forum, traditionally held every few years, is organized this year by the Center for Geopolitical Security Studies (GSSC) in partnership with the Polish Institute of International Affairs (PISM).
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. On November 19, 2025, Latvian Ambassador Karlis Eihenbaums organized a diplomatic gathering in Beijing, which brought together ambassadors accredited in China from various regions, including Asia, Africa, South America, and Europe, Trend reports via the Latvian MFA.

The event aimed to strengthen diplomatic ties and promote multilateral discussions on Latvias priorities following its election to the United Nations Security Council.

In his address to the attendees, Ambassador Eihenbaums highlighted Latvias commitment as a dependable and responsible international partner, one that actively contributes to global security while championing the principles enshrined in the United Nations Charter and the broader international rules-based order.

The Ambassador emphasized Latvias determination to play an engaged role on the UN Security Council, with a focus on upholding international law, addressing hybrid threats, and combating the spread of disinformation. He also underscored the importance of preventing all forms of violence in armed conflicts and ensuring justice for the affected populations.

Ambassador Eihenbaums further encouraged practical cooperation within the UN framework, affirming that Latvia would work collaboratively with every member of the Security Council throughout its term.

The meeting also provided an opportunity to acknowledge Chinas position as a permanent member of the UN Security Council, recognizing its experience and significant responsibilities within the UN system. Ambassador Eihenbaums expressed gratitude for Chinas support of Latvias candidacy for the Security Council and conveyed optimism for continued constructive cooperation between Latvia, China, and the broader diplomatic community in Beijing.

The event was part of Latvias broader diplomatic efforts to advance its priorities ahead of its upcoming term on the UN Security Council and to enhance Latvias visibility internationally. Latvia was elected to the UN Security Council on June 3, 2025, for the term spanning January 1, 2026, to December 31, 2027. Participation in the Security Council will serve as an important platform for promoting Latvias foreign policy interests and strengthening its influence in multilateral diplomacy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The Khatlon E-Buses project in Tajikistan, previously known as Bokhtar E-Buses, may be reviewed by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) Board of Directors in mid-December, a source from the bank told Trend.

The project entails a sovereign loan of up to $7.4 million, complemented by a $4.1 million investment grant from the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund (SSF), aimed at financing the procurement of up to 50 electric buses and the necessary infrastructure for the public transport operator in Bokhtar.

In addition, the EBRD provided updates on several other ongoing initiatives in Tajikistan. The Yavan Water project is currently awaiting the signing of the project support agreement, with developments anticipated by the end of the year. This initiative includes a sovereign loan of up to $2.7 million, matched by an equal grant from the SSF, intended to modernize water supply infrastructure in Yavan city. Furthermore, the bank has initiated the procurement process for consultants who will oversee project implementation and supervision.

The Dushanbe District Heating project, which was initially launched in 2021, saw financing agreements signed in October 2025, with implementation contingent upon government ratification. The project is funded through a $5 million sovereign-guaranteed loan and a $5 million grant from the EBRD Shareholder Special Fund (SSF). Its primary objective is to rehabilitate the city's district heating infrastructure, which includes the procurement of operational equipment, the installation of smart meters, the refurbishment of pumping stations, and the expansion of the heating network.

As of September 30, 2025, the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) reported an active investment portfolio in Tajikistan totaling $575.4 million. A significant portion of this portfolio, 88 percent, or $505.6 million, has been directed toward sustainable infrastructure projects. The corporate sector accounts for 16 million (3 percent), while financial institutions represent $49.9 million (9 percent) of the total portfolio. Currently, the EBRD oversees 77 active projects, with operating assets valued at $398.7 million. Since beginning operations in Tajikistan, the EBRD has invested over $1.1 billion across 185 projects, with total disbursements and issued guarantees amounting to $989.2 million.
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan reached an agreement on the joint implementation of tasks set by the leaders of both countries aimed at further developing cooperation in the fuel and energy sector, Trend reports via the Ministry of Energy of Uzbekistan.

The decision was reached during a meeting held in Tashkent, attended by Uzbekistan's Minister of Energy, Jurabek Mirzamakhmudov; Turkmenistan's Minister of Energy, Annageldi Saparov; and Maksat Babaev, Chairman of the national oil and gas company Turkmengaz. The meeting was also attended by the heads and senior representatives of fuel and energy enterprises.

During the discussions, it was noted that bilateral relations, including cooperation in the energy sector, have been steadily and effectively advancing thanks to the initiatives of the President of Uzbekistan, Shavkat Mirziyoyev, and the President of Turkmenistan, Serdar Berdimuhamedov.

Moreover, it was emphasized that, within the framework of the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia held in Tashkent, a substantial package of bilateral agreements was adopted. These agreements aim to strengthen the strategic partnership and further expand the multifaceted cooperation between Uzbekistan and Turkmenistan.

President Serdar Berdimuhamedovs state visit to Uzbekistan took place on November 1617, during which he also participated in the 7th Consultative Meeting of the Heads of State of Central Asia. During this visit, both parties reaffirmed their strong and mutually advantageous cooperation in the energy sector, agreeing to advance larger-scale projects, including the joint development of promising energy deposits.

In recent years, bilateral trade between the two countries has more than doubled, surpassing $1 billion. Both sides acknowledged the potential to further increase this figure to $2 billion through the diversification of traded goods and the full utilization of the free-trade regime.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. A new stage has already been started in the project to develop the Cheshmeh Khosh, Dalpari, and Paydar-e Shargh oil fields located in western Iran, Majid Najarian, an official from the Iranian Petroleum Engineering and Development Company, told local media, Trend reports.

According to Najarian, the 28th meeting of the Joint Management Committee for the development of the specified oil fields took place in Tehran on November 17. The meeting provided a comprehensive update on the current status of the fields development, reviewed the outcomes of previous decisions, and outlined the forthcoming programs in detail.

Najarian further highlighted that a report on the progress of tenders was presented during the meeting, with committee members emphasizing the need to expedite both technical and financial assessments.

Additionally, the company official mentioned that a representative from the Russian ZN Vostok company briefed the committee on the Transfer of Technology program, including a list of portable technologies and training initiatives. The committee also stressed the importance of leveraging available expertise to address technical challenges in the reservoir and fostering collaboration with startup companies.

The meeting also concentrated on evaluating the structure of contracts aimed at enhancing operational efficiency, reducing costs, and improving mutual understanding with contractors.

In 2019, a 10-year contract was signed between the Russian ZN Vostok company and the Iranian companies Iran Ofogh and Kayson to develop the Cheshmeh Khosh, Dalpari, and Paydar-e Sharg fields with an investment of $3 billion. Development of the fields began in mid-2020.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Georgias Economy Minister Mariam Kvrivishvili met with Halil Achkar, Vice President of Global Blue, to discuss the companys possible entry into the Georgian market as the country works to strengthen tourism and retail sectors, Trend reports via the Ministry.

Global Blue, an international provider of tax-free shopping and payment solutions, is assessing opportunities in Georgia amid steady economic growth and rising value added in tourism and related industries, the ministry said.

The sides reviewed trends in Georgias economy, with a focus on tourism, civil aviation, and retail. Kvrivishvili noted that Georgia is expanding its range of tourism products to attract higher-spending visitors.

The Ministry said Global Blues arrival would enhance the economic impact of tourism, as international tax-free standards typically increase tourist spending. It added that the companys operations could also boost the competitiveness of the retail sector by encouraging more premium brands to enter the market and supporting the development of the digital economy.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The European Commission has opened registrations for a new Raw Materials Mechanism aimed at strengthening Europes supply security by connecting buyers and sellers of strategic raw materials and supporting new projects across the value chain, Trend reports via the Commission.

Launched during Raw Materials Week, the mechanism operates under the EU Energy and Raw Materials Platform and is designed to help industries diversify supply chains critical to green technologies, digital manufacturing, aerospace, and defense.

The platform will link companies with suppliers, off-takers, stockpiling service providers, and financial partners. It will also support the development of new projects both within the EU and in third countries, the Commission said.

Commercial negotiations will take place outside the platform and without Commission involvement.

The mechanism is expected to facilitate demand aggregation, joint purchasing, and investment consortia. The first matchmaking round is scheduled for the first quarter of 2026.

The Commission urged eligible companies across the supply and demand sides, as well as financial institutions and storage providers, to register.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Azerbaijani banks are developing at a very rapid pace, and Baku could become the financial center of the region, the Executive Vice President of the Polish Banking Association, Wodzimierz Kicinski, said in an interview with Trend at the 9th International Banking Forum held in Baku.

He shared his opinion on the development of Azerbaijan's banking sector, the prospects for cooperation between the two associations, and possible joint projects in the field of digitalization, artificial intelligence, fintech, and cybersecurity.

The interviewee spoke about the prospects for the development of Azerbaijani banks: "Azerbaijani banks are developing at a very rapid pace, and this dynamic is characteristic of the Azerbaijani economy as a whole. For us, this is a good opportunity to exchange ideas and provide information on trends in modern banking services in Europe. We believe that in the future, Baku could become an important center for the financial sector not only in Azerbaijan but also in Central Asia."

Kicinski also spoke about possible opportunities for cooperation between the Polish and Azerbaijani banking sectors: "There is currently a more active exchange of ideas and experience. An analysis of advanced solutions and innovations in the banking sector of both countries is being carried out. This may be followed by more concrete steps, including joint technological solutions and the involvement of fintech companies in this process."

Wodzimierz Kicinski also assessed the potential for a possible partnership between the banking sectors of the two countries in the field of cybersecurity: "The Polish Banking Association is very active in the field of cybersecurity. We cooperate with various countries around the world in this area and, thanks to this, we have repeatedly protected our clients' funds. We also have relations with Azerbaijan. During visits by Azerbaijani banks to Poland, we discussed issues of cybersecurity, combating fraud, and improving protection systems. Mutual ties have been established, and work in this area continues.

We are now at the stage of implementing more specific cooperation measures. The memorandum is, of course, an important document from a formal point of view, but the main thing for us is the joint implementation of daily and real measures, the Polish financier concluded.
Photo: Official information source of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 19. The Government of Kazakhstan plans to allocate 1 trillion tenge (approximately $1.92 billion) to Baiterek Holding for the financing of 20 key economic projects from the national budget in 20262028, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin, said at a government meeting, Trend reports via the Kazakh government..

According to Zhumangarin, the role of Baiterek Holding in the implementation of proactive economic policies is set to be significantly enhanced. He highlighted that Baiterek has already been restructured into an investment holding company, marking a shift from its previous focus on mere distribution to more strategic investment initiatives.

Zhumangarin emphasized that the new focus will center on executing 15 to 20 systemically significant projects, which are expected to generate the highest multiplier effect for the national economy. Priority sectors for investment include mining and metallurgy, machinery manufacturing, energy, infrastructure, tourism, as well as the chemical and food industries.

He further noted that future funding efforts will prioritize the involvement of second-tier banks.

Baiterek Holding is closely linked to the Government of Kazakhstan, which is its sole shareholder and plays an active role in its management.

The holding was established in 2013, with the goal of ensuring effective management of state-owned and trust-managed shares in national development institutions, national companies, and other entities in line with advanced corporate governance standards.

As of November 19, 2025, according to the official exchange rate provided by the National Bank of Kazakhstan, 1 USD equals 521.01 KZT.
Photo: The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. Uzbekistan and Slovenia discussed strengthening cooperation in the areas of pharmaceuticals, logistics, critical minerals, and supporting the entry of Uzbek products into the EU market, Trend reports via the Uzbek Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade.

These topics were thoroughly addressed during a meeting between Laziz Kudratov, the Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of Uzbekistan, and Tanja Fajon, Slovenias Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign and European Affairs, in Slovenia.

As part of the visit, Laziz Kudratov also participated in the meeting of the UzbekistanSlovenia Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation. The parties discussed expanding collaboration in trade, transport, agriculture, digital transformation, education, and other promising sectors, reaffirming their commitment to intensifying bilateral dialogue.

Following the session, the Protocol of the Commission meeting and a Memorandum of Cooperation between the two countries Ministries of Agriculture were signed.

Kudratov also held meetings with several Slovenian companies, resulting in agreements to advance joint projects in digitalization, aviation, human-capital development, pharmaceuticals, energy, and insurance.

Meanwhile, trade turnover between Uzbekistan and Slovenia has tripled in recent years. The two sides have set an initial goal of increasing trade to 500 million euros by diversifying the product range and promoting import-substitution initiatives.
China escalated its retaliation against Japan, suspending imports of Japanese seafood and halting approvals for new films  the latest signs that their diplomatic spat is far from over.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning told reporters on Wednesday that Japan had not met the conditions for resuming seafood shipments, effectively confirming earlier Japanese media reports that imports would be suspended. The move comes just months after Beijing lifted a similar ban.

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Mao warned that if Tokyo refuses to retract Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis remarks on Taiwan that angered Beijing, China will take serious countermeasures.

Relations between the two neighbors have soured after Takaichi became the first sitting Japanese leader in decades to publicly link a Taiwan Strait crisis with the possible deployment of Japanese troops. Her remarks drew swift retaliation from Beijing, which warned of more to come.

Beijing has also suspended talks on resuming beef imports, according to Kyodo News. In addition, Chinese regulators have paused the approval process for new Japanese films and suspended six titles that had already been cleared and secured release dates, according to people familiar with the matter.

The actions follow a meeting aimed at easing tensions that appears to have made little progress. Liu Jinsong, director-general of the Chinese Foreign Ministrys Asian Affairs Department, said he was dissatisfied with the outcome of his talks with Japanese diplomat Masaaki Kanai on Tuesday, according to a report by Chinese news outlet The Paper.

Japan said Kanai reiterated that the countrys position on Taiwan remains unchanged. Kanai pushed back against extremely inappropriate statements made by Xue Jian, Chinas consul general in Osaka, who threatened to cut off Takaichis head in a now-deleted post on X. Kanai, who is the director general of the Asian and Oceanian affairs bureau, demanded immediate action against the diplomat.

Economic Impacts

Chinas seafood imports from Japan have slowed to a trickle since 2024, after Beijing imposed a ban on shipments from its Asian neighbor. After Beijing agreed to mostly lift that ban earlier this year, shipments had started to slowly pick up from September, although in the first nine months of this year, imports of fish, crustaceans and other seafood totaled just $500,000, Chinese customs data show.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Officials from Caspian littoral states highlighted the importance of developing economic cooperation, enhancing transport infrastructure, and protecting the environment of the Caspian Sea during a forum held in Rasht, Iran, Trend reports, citing Iranian media.

At the conclusion of the two-day forum, held in Rasht in Gilan Province, the participating countries issued a joint statement emphasizing the need to strengthen economic collaboration in trade, agriculture, processing industries, mutual investment, and maritime tourism across their coastal regions.

The statement also underlined the significance of holding exhibitions, economic forums, and environmental conferences in the littoral areas, as well as promoting scientific and research collaboration between universities and research centers in the region.

Efforts to develop and modernize transport infrastructure across the Caspian littoral countries (Iran, Azerbaijan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, and Russia) were praised, the statement added.

The officials stressed the importance of sustainable use of the Caspian Seas resources, preventing illegal fishing, combating marine pollution, and investigating the causes of declining water levels in the sea.

The forum, which brought together representatives from the Caspian littoral states, was held on November 18-19 and aimed to foster regional cooperation in economic, scientific, and environmental spheres.

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Photo: The Ministry of Investments, Industry, and Trade of Uzbekistan

TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. Tashkent hosted the 5th interim session of the Foreign Investors Council, which discussed issues related to removing investment barriers, strengthening interagency coordination, and priority areas for 2026, Trend reports via the Uzbek Ministry of Investment, Industry, and Trade.

The session was chaired by Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade, Laziz Kudratov and moderated by Andi Aranitasi, EBRD Managing Director for Central Asia. The event brought together senior representatives of international companies, financial institutions, and government agencies.

During the meeting, progress achieved by the Councils eight Working Groups was reviewed, including more than 40 initiatives aimed at updating corporate legislation, introducing responsible business standards, and enhancing capital-mobilisation mechanisms.

Investors also presented proposals related to tax administration, land allocation, and energy planning. Following the discussions, participants agreed on further steps to accelerate the implementation of previously adopted commitments.

The session endorsed a strategic package for 2026, covering AI development, ESG practices, human capital advancement, the creative economy, and regional cooperation. The agreements will be formalised in an official protocol and will serve as the basis for the Action Plan ahead of the next plenary session.

Meanwhile, the EBRD has invested 5.57 billion euros in Uzbekistan to date across 193 projects, with the majority of those funds supporting private entrepreneurship, contributing to the countrys economic development.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Cooperation with Azerbaijan fosters long-term friendship and opens up new opportunities in the field of open banking, Mikheil Kapanadze, CEO of the Open Banking project of the Georgia Bankers Association (GBA), said in an interview with Trend on the sidelines of the IX International Banking Forum (IBF 2025) in Baku.

Kapanadze outlined the growing prospects for cooperation between the Georgian and Azerbaijani banking sectors.

We work very actively with the Azerbaijan Banks Association (ABA), and this relationship goes far beyond cooperation; it is a long-term partnership built on trust. We support all their initiatives and will continue to do so. We are open and always ready to hear their proposals.

Collaboration in this field is not only possible but also strongly encouraged. Both sides exchange approaches and information, including practical experience on how specific issues are addressed. This is extremely important, and we intend to continue this exchange, he said.

Kapanadze also touched on new investment projects and opportunities in the financial market between the two countries.

We operate on the same principles as we do with Azerbaijan in Georgia. Banks functioning in the country are members of the Georgia Bankers Association and enjoy the same opportunities as all other institutions. All investments are welcome, and naturally, the environment is open for creating new prospects and expanding opportunities in this sector," he added.

The official then weighed in on the latest technological breakthroughs in the banking sector and the golden opportunity for collaboration on the horizon.

The Georgia Bankers Association is moving toward a fully open infrastructure, meaning that systems that remained closed for decades are now being unlocked. Open banking is the first step in this transformation, and parts of this traditionally closed ecosystem are already becoming accessible. In the coming years, we will see how quickly and to what extent this opening progresses.

From the consumers perspective, the aim is to access a wide range of services and information in one convenient place. Additionally, personal data protection must remain a priority, and the right balance must be maintained, Kapanadze concluded.

The two-day IX International Banking Forum 2025 (IBF 2025), organized in partnership with Mastercard, has started today. This years Forum explores the theme Reliable, Safe, and Sustainable Banking and is supported by the Azerbaijan Banks Association, the Central Bank of Azerbaijan, and the Ministry of Digital Development and Transport.

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. Entrepreneurs hailing from Uzbekistan and Afghanistan have put pen to paper on preliminary agreements that amount to a whopping $36 million, Trend reports via the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan.

The agreements were reached during a working visit by a delegation of around 100 Uzbek business representatives, organized by the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan, to the Islamic Republic of Afghanistan from November 17 through 23.

Moreover, on November 18, in Kabul, a business meeting of Afghan and foreign private sector representatives was held as part of the Imam Abu Hanifa4th National and International Exhibition and Trade Fair.

During the meeting, participants discussed cooperation in sectors including food processing, construction materials, pharmaceuticals, textiles, logistics, energy, and consumer electronics.

Negotiations were conducted in a B2B format, focusing on expanding trade links, developing joint projects, promoting investment initiatives, and increasing export potential in the Afghan market.

In addition, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Uzbekistan and the Chamber of Commerce and Investment of Afghanistan signed a memorandum of cooperation, which provides for the establishment of Trade Houses in both countries and the opening of representative offices of the chambers.

Meanwhile, Uzbekistans trade turnover with Afghanistan reached $862.2 million from January through July 2025, reflecting a 51 percent increase compared to the same period in 2024 ($571 million) and nearly doubling compared to 2023 ($470.7 million).

It is noteworthy that significant foreign investors in Afghanistan are China, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and the United Arab Emirates, mostly concentrating on natural resources such as oil and gas. Other notable investors, especially in sectors like telecommunications, include corporations like Roshan. Nonetheless, the total Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) has markedly decreased in recent years, complicating efforts to attract new, substantial investments.

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. President of Uzbekistan Shavkat Mirziyoyev has signed a decree appointing Aziz Abdukhakimov as Presidential Adviser on Environmental Issues and Chairman of the newly established National Committee on Ecology and Climate Change, Trend reports via the press service of the Uzbek president.

In connection with this appointment, he has been relieved of his duties as Minister of Ecology, Environmental Protection, and Climate Change.

The decree forms part of the implementation of a broader presidential order aimed at creating a management system for promptly responding to public demands in the fields of ecology and tourism.

Under this reform, the National Committee is being established on the basis of the Ministry of Ecology. The new body will be responsible for implementing unified environmental policy, expanding green areas, and addressing the impacts of climate change and desertification.

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, November 19. Uzbekistan and Switzerland discussed current issues and prospects for further development of trade, economic, investment, and financial-technical cooperation, as well as plans for joint events in 2026, Trend reports via the Uzbekistan's MFA.

The discussions took place during a meeting between Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, Muzaffar Madrakhimov, and the Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of Switzerland to Uzbekistan, Konstantin Obolensky.

Special emphasis was placed on the practical implementation of collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening bilateral ties, as outlined during the discussions between the foreign policy heads of both nations in Bern on October 16.

Following the meeting, several key agreements were reached concerning joint initiatives, including the establishment of inter-ministerial political consultations, the convening of the Intergovernmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, the organization of Swiss Economy Days in Uzbekistan, and the facilitation of reciprocal high-level delegations.

Earlier, on October 16, Bakhtiyor Saidov engaged in a meeting with Ignazio Cassis, the Federal Councillor and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Switzerland, to explore avenues for advancing Uzbekistan-Switzerland relations in both bilateral and multilateral contexts. Discussions centered on critical areas such as innovation, knowledge transfer, trade, capacity building, and other strategic sectors.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Azerbaijans need to diversify its economy and generate new revenue streams is creating significant opportunities for cooperation with the United States, Rich Outzen, senior non-resident fellow at the Atlantic Council and geopolitical analyst, told Trend.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 1st AzerbaijanUS Think Tank Forum, he noted that one of the key points highlighted during the discussions was the changing outlook of Azerbaijans traditional oil sector.

What I found most compelling today is the insight that Azerbaijan's oil revenues and production are beginning to stabilize. As a result, Azerbaijan is now contemplating, much like the Gulf countries, how to diversify its revenue streams. This includes exploring advanced technologies, information technology, not just green energy, but also AI, advanced manufacturing, and similar high-value sectors, he remarked.

He further explained that these high-value industries are areas where U.S. expertise can play a significant role. Automated manufacturing, as well as services, could be pivotal. As Azerbaijan transitions from a resource-based economy to one driven by services and knowledge, the U.S. can offer substantial support, Outzen added.

He emphasized that the rapid pace of technological advancements makes deeper collaboration particularly timely. With developments moving so swiftly in areas such as additive manufacturing, 3D printing, and AI, we may not even fully grasp what the next five to ten years will bring in terms of manufacturing innovations, he noted.

In response to a question regarding the broader outlook for bilateral cooperation, Outzen highlighted the recently signed agreements between the two nations as a positive step toward enhanced collaboration.

We can look at the agreements that were signed or the initial agreements. The framework that was signed on August 8th serves as the broad foundation, including the Trump Route for International Peace and Prosperity (TRIPP), and the bilateral memorandas signed between Washington and Yerevan, and Washington and Baku, he said.

He stressed that these documents mark a new start for multiple initiatives. Some of these are related to the small strip of land - the Zangezur corridor, about 30 kilometers or so - but much of it is broader thinking about how to stimulate foreign direct investment that will benefit both Azerbaijan and Armenia, and the region more broadly, he noted.

Outzen also noted active discussions within the US government and private sector. There are probably two or three dozen ideas about how to expand trade - some related to energy, some to infrastructure, some to technology, green energy - all these sorts of things, he said.

He added that the Middle Corridor stands out as a key platform for new initiatives. It represents, an opportunity for dozens or hundreds of new projects that will make money and bring stability and trust to the region, but most importantly, for the United States and for Azerbaijan, he concluded.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Transport corridors discussed at the forum have the potential to significantly strengthen both regional economic activity and cooperation between Azerbaijan and the U.S., Eugene Chausovsky, Senior Director for Analytical Development and Training at the New Lines Institute, told Trend.

Speaking on the sidelines of the 1st Azerbaijan-US Think Tank Forum, he noted that the benefits for Azerbaijan are particularly clear.

Chausovsky emphasized that Azerbaijan stands to reap substantial economic rewards from enhancing regional connectivity, particularly through unlocking previously constrained economic activities such as transportation and energy supplies. He noted that this development is a natural extension of the diplomatic momentum in the region, with tangible economic outcomes now on the horizon.

He further pointed out that the United States, too, has much to gain from fostering improved regional integration. For the U.S., increased connectivity could serve to strengthen its position as a peacemaker while simultaneously enhancing ties between this region, Europe, and the United States, Chausovsky explained. This would facilitate greater access to vital resources such as critical minerals and energy supplies, showcasing Americas ability to negotiate and implement deals that yield mutual economic benefits for all involved parties.

Addressing questions on which sectors of Azerbaijan's economy hold the most promise for U.S. investment, Chausovsky highlighted several key areas. Energy and minerals are crucial, as are agriculture and technology, he stated. Investing in these sectors not only offers significant advantages for the region but also strengthens competition with global players like China.

He emphasized that this should be viewed as a part of a bigger regional picture where there are more connections between these economic hubs - to connect to Central Asia as well, which the US has expressed a lot of interest in.

In response to the question of which specific projects he considers most valuable, Chausovsky emphasized the importance of implementation rather than the selection of a single specific initiative.

There are a lot of projects, and I think the most important thing is perhaps not the projects themselves, because there are a lot of very viable ones, but to actually get them from the idea stages or the early MoU stages to actual implementation. Once you start to build off that momentum, then all of these projects - whether its the Trans-Caspian route, whether its the Middle Corridor - will benefit one another if they can come to fruition, he concluded.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, November 19. Kyrgyz President Sadyr Zhaparov met with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi to discuss political ties and the implementation of joint projects, the presidential office said, Trend reports.

Zhaparov said relations between Kyrgyzstan and China were at a "historic high", noting that Wangs visits consistently bring substantial ideas for deepening the countries comprehensive strategic partnership. He highlighted progress in practical cooperation, including road and rail construction, new air routes, and a series of projects across multiple sectors.

The president also pointed to growing multilateral engagement, particularly within the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation and the 'Central Asia-China' format.

Wang conveyed greetings from Chinese President Xi Jinping and reaffirmed Beijings commitment to implementing agreements reached between the two leaders. He noted that his last visit to Kyrgyzstan was three years ago and praised the countrys progress since then, adding that China, as a good neighbour and friend, welcomed these achievements.

Wang also emphasized that Chinese companies operating in Kyrgyzstan had been instructed to strictly follow local laws and respect national traditions.
ADB launching knowledge-sharing network to rev up universal health coverage

The Asian Development Bank has launched a new initiative to advance universal health coverage across several regions. The project will create a network to support knowledge exchange and strengthen government capacities. It aims to accelerate progress toward sustainable and inclusive healthcare systems.

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Chinese electric vehicle (EV) makers from Xpeng to Chery Automobile, leveraging their technological and manufacturing strength, are intensifying efforts to build humanoid robots as they position themselves as potential game-changers amid Beijing's ambitions to gain an upper hand over the US in the hi-tech sector.

Guangzhou-based Xpeng said it envisioned sales of 1 million units by 2030 after its next-generation humanoid robot Iron won praise from Tesla CEO Elon Musk early this month.

He Xiaopeng, co-founder and CEO of Xpeng, told an earnings results briefing on Monday that the cost of producing humanoid robots would eventually come down to the level of building cars, paving the way for their use by households in the near future.

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"I hope Iron [robots] will become a new member in Xpeng's stores, office parks and factories by the end of next year," He said. "I believe the market potential for robots is greater than that for cars."

He Xiaopeng says the cost of producing humanoid robots will eventually come down to the level of building cars. Photo: AFP alt=He Xiaopeng says the cost of producing humanoid robots will eventually come down to the level of building cars. Photo: AFP>

His upbeat forecast came just 10 days after Musk endorsed Iron on social media, while predicting Chinese companies would dominate the global robotics market alongside Tesla.

Iron, now in its seventh generation, is powered by Xpeng's Vision-Language-Action 2.0 AI model, which relies primarily on visual data for training and decision-making. The artificial intelligence model allows the robot to interpret its environment directly rather than translating images into language first, improving efficiency and reducing information loss.

Mass production of Xpeng's humanoid robots would start at the end of 2026, He said.

State-owned Chery, based in eastern China's Anhui province, has also joined the race. Since early 2024, it has been collaborating with AI company Aimoga to develop Mornine, a humanoid robot designed to understand human language and interpret interaction intentions.

Shanghai-headquartered Nio, an assembler of smart EVs, is also exploring robotics, with plans to create a robotic dog.

BYD, China's EV king, Gac Group and Seres are also among the country's leading carmakers venturing into robotics, buoyed by the belief that AI technologies employed to build autonomous vehicles could play a role in bridging the gap between humans and machines.
BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, November 19. Asian Development Bank (ADB) President Masato Kanda discussed Kyrgyzstan's reform and investment priorities with the country's Finance Minister and ADB Governor Almaz Baketaev, Trend reports.

Kanda said in a post on X that Kyrgyzstan's fiscal surpluses, stronger revenues, and prudent borrowing had created space for continued reform and investment. He also praised the governments leadership of the Central Asia Regional Economic Cooperation (CAREC) Program this year.

The ADB will continue supporting the countrys financing needs and reform agenda, Kanda said, adding that the bank aims to help expand private-sector participation to bolster resilient and inclusive growth.
Azerbaijan tallies oil export to Georgia by October 2025

Azerbaijan exported 3,838 tons of crude oil and bituminous rockbased petroleum products worth $1.58 million to Georgia in the first nine months of 2025. No exports of these products to Georgia were recorded in the same period last year. During this period, Georgia ranked 21st among importers of Azerbaijani oil.

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Italy increases oil imports from Azerbaijan

Azerbaijan's oil exports to Italy increased significantly in both volume and value in the period from January through October this year, with Italy retaining its status as the largest importer of Azerbaijani oil.

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Over the past five years, the number of companies registered to ship gas through the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP) has grown from just three to forty-six, Murad Heydarov, Chairman of TAPs Board of Directors, said in an exclusive interview with Trend, as TAP marked 5 years since the start of commercial operation on November 15.

These companies represent a diverse mix of major European and regional energy players, trading houses, and utilities. Many of these new participants are active in Greece and Bulgaria - markets that TAP has helped interconnect - further supporting new eastward flows from Italy and Western Europe into South-Eastern Europe. Customer satisfaction remains high, with TAPs latest survey showing a clear improvement in feedback from both long-standing and newly registered shippers.

On November 15, 2020, four and a half years after the inauguration of construction works, the 878-km gas transportation system crossing Greece, Albania, the Adriatic Sea and Italy, began commercial operations. On December 31, 2020 TAP started transporting first gas. TAPs annual capacity is 10 billion cubic meters with the possibility of expansion to 20 billion cubic meters.

The increase of TAP supplies by an additional 1.2 billion cubic meters by 2026 was approved in January 2024.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Following TAPs 2021 Market Test, the pipelines long-term capacity will be expanded by 1.2 bcm/a from 2026. Of this, 1.04 bcm/a has been booked for delivery to Italy and 0.16 bcm/a for Albania, Murad Heydarov, Chairman of TAPs Board of Directors, said in an exclusive interview with Trend, as TAP marked 5 years since the start of commercial operation on November 15.

Heydarov noted that TAPs long-term capacity, which currently stands at 10 bcm per year (bcm/a), can be expanded in incremental steps to reach over 20 bcm/a.

The expansion capacity is offered to the market through regulated procedures, called Market Tests, launched every two years. In line with the commercial commitments taken in the 2021 Market Test, TAP has completed the project works in Kipoi compressor station in Greece related to the first level of expansion. This will make available an additional 1.2 bcm/a of long-term incremental capacity from January 1, 2026.

The expansion works, which commenced in January 2024, have been completed safely, ahead of schedule and on budget without interruption to ongoing gas flows - reflecting TAPs commitment to operational excellence. To make this expansion possible, a new 15 MW compressor unit was installed at the Kipoi compressor station near the GreekTurkiye border, he explained.

On November 15, 2020, four and a half years after the inauguration of construction works, the 878-km gas transportation system crossing Greece, Albania, the Adriatic Sea and Italy, began commercial operations. On December 31, 2020 TAP started transporting first gas. TAPs annual capacity is 10 billion cubic meters with the possibility of expansion to 20 billion cubic meters.

The increase of TAP supplies by an additional 1.2 billion cubic meters by 2026 was approved in January 2024.
Photo: Official information source of the Prime Minister of the Republic of Kazakhstan

ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 19. Kazakhstans GDP increased by 6.4 percent in the first ten months of 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin, said at a government meeting, Trend reports via the Kazakh government.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Economy, Serik Zhumangarin, announced this during a government meeting.

According to Zhumangarin, growth in the real sector reached 8.2 percent, while the services sector expanded by 5.3 percent. Within these sectors, the transport industry experienced a record growth of 20.7 percent, followed by construction, which saw a robust increase of 15.1 percent.

''The mining sector grew by 9.6 percent, trade by 9 percent, and agriculture by 5.4 percent. In manufacturing, which overall grew by 5.8 percent, machinery manufacturing led the sector with an 11.5 percent rise, particularly driven by the automotive industry, which saw a notable increase of 13.3 percent.

Significant growth was also recorded in the production of metal products (+14.1 percent), chemicals (+10.9 percent), as well as food (+9.1 percent) and beverage production,'' he added.

Looking forward, Kazakhstans economy is projected to grow at an average annual rate of at least 5 percent between 2026 and 2028, according to the countrys socio-economic development forecast for that period. In 2026, real GDP growth is expected to reach 5.4 percent.

Kazakhstan's economy experienced a growth of 5.1 percent in 2023, followed by a 4.8 percent increase in 2024.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 19. The first deliveries of Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft to Kazakhstans Air Astana are set for July 2026, Paul Wrigley, Vice President of Sales and Marketing at Boeing, said at a meeting with a delegation from Kazakhstan's Ministry of Transport, Trend reports via the country's Ministry of Transport.

Meanwhile, the delegation from Kazakhstan met with representatives from Boeing, Airbus, and De Havilland within the framework of the Dubai Airshow in the UAE.

However, it was further emphasized that the delivery of Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft to Vietjet Qazaqstan (Qazaq Air) is anticipated for September 2026.

Additionally, Charbel Youzkatli, Vice President of Airbus, expressed the companys openness to exploring the establishment of a technical center in Kazakhstan and indicated a keen interest in expanding the countrys cargo air transportation network.

Meanwhile, De Havilland disclosed its ongoing development of a new aircraft model tailored for regional air travel within Kazakhstan, taking into account the vast distances between the nation's cities.

As a key outcome of President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev's visit to the United States in early November, Air Astana and Boeing signed a Memorandum of Understanding aimed at renewing and expanding the airlines long-haul fleet, including the acquisition of 18 Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Kazakhstan has put forward a proposal to send a unified message to the leaders of Turkic states, urging enhanced state support for the national Red Crescent societies, the president of the National Red Crescent Society of Kazakhstan, Erkebek Argymbayev, said, Trend reports.

He made the announcement at a meeting of the heads of the Red Crescent Network of member states of the Organization of Turkic-speaking States (OTS) in Baku.

Argymbayev proposed that the Secretariat and the current chair of the Turkic network jointly prepare this appeal. It should highlight key areas requiring attention: strengthening legal status, developing institutional capacity, enhancing material and technical resources, expanding the network of branches, and increasing the human and financial resources of societies.

The official noted that state support is the foundation for the sustainable development of humanitarian organizations.
ASTANA, Kazakhstan, November 19. The volume of rail transportation along the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR or Middle Corridor) reached 2.6 million tons in the first ten months of 2025, Trend reports via Kazakhstan Railways (KTZ).

This announcement was made by Salamat Abzhaliyev, Deputy General Director of KTZ-Freight Transport, during a roundtable discussion on the topic "Assessment of Transport Volumes on the Trans-Caspian International Transport Route (TITR) for 2025 and Transport Plans for 2026," held in Aktau with the participation of key Kazakhstan exporters.

Abzhaliyev emphasized that the share of Kazakhstans exports along this route has reached 74 percent.

According to information, the most notable growth was observed in the transportation of non-ferrous metals, which surged by 84 percent, followed by a threefold increase in grain shipments and a 16 percent rise in the transport of chemical and mineral fertilizers. The volume of westbound transit also grew by 32.4 percent.

During the roundtable, representatives from Kazakhstan Railways highlighted that to enhance the route's efficiency, a comprehensive audit was conducted. As a result, on September 30, 2025, a joint action plan was signed at the New Silk Way Forum in Almaty by Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, and Georgia.

The plan addresses key areas including infrastructure development (such as purchasing vessels for container transport), streamlining administrative procedures, digitalizing transportation processes, and harmonizing tariff policies.

The Middle Corridor is a transport and trade route that passes through several countries in the region, connecting Asia with Europe. It serves as an alternative to the traditional North and South corridors. The route begins in China and passes through Central Asian countries such as Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. It then crosses the Caspian Sea, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Turkiye before reaching Europe.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. Kyrgyzstan has officially handed over the chairmanship of the Red Crescent Network of the Organization of Turkic States (OTS) to Azerbaijan, said Chingiz Chakipov, President of the Kyrgyz Red Crescent Society, Trend reports.

He made the announcement during a meeting of the networks leaders in Baku.

Chakipov formally transferred the chairmanship to Novruz Aslan, President of the Azerbaijani Red Crescent Society, expressing confidence that the extensive experience and strong leadership of the Azerbaijani Red Crescent will guide our network to new achievements.

Todays meeting is not only a moment to transfer the chairmanship but also an opportunity to reaffirm our shared commitment to the goals and unity inspired by the spirit of brotherhood, solidarity, and common Turkic values, Chakipov said.

He added that the efforts of the Red Crescent and Red Cross societies of OTS member states have been consolidated, and the adoption of a new declaration, with the participation of OTS Secretary General Kurbanychbek Omuraliev, marked an important step in the networks further development.

Chakipov assured that Kyrgyzstan will continue supporting all joint initiatives and contribute to enhancing the effectiveness of collective humanitarian efforts.
Investing.com -- Claude AI is Anthropics suite of frontier large language models, designed for advanced reasoning and built with an emphasis on safety and reliability.

The company is expanding global access to these models after announcing new strategic partnerships with Microsoft and NVIDIA.

Anthropics lineup includes three widely used model families: Claude Opus, Claude Sonnet and Claude Haiku.

On Tuesday, Microsoft, NVIDIA and Anthropic announced new strategic partnerships.

Microsoft said as part of its partnership with the company, customers of Azure AI Foundry will now be able to access Claude Sonnet 4.5, Claude Opus 4.1 and Claude Haiku 4.5, describing them as part of a broader collaboration to bring Anthropics frontier AI to more businesses.

With this expansion, Claude becomes the only frontier LLM model available on all three of the worlds most prominent cloud services.

Claude Sonnet sits at the centre of the lineup. It is designed to offer a balance of power and efficiency, positioned between the lightweight Haiku and the flagship Opus model.

The partnerships announced this week revealed that Anthropic is scaling its rapidly growing Claude AI model on Microsoft Azure, powered by NVIDIA, committing to purchase $30 billion of Azure compute and up to 1 gigawatt of additional capacity.

NVIDIA will work directly with Anthropic to optimize Anthropic models for the best possible performance, efficiency and TCO, while tuning future NVIDIA architectures for Claude workloads. NVIDIA and Microsoft plan to invest up to $10 billion and $5 billion, respectively, in Anthropic.

Microsoft will also continue supporting Claude across its Copilot products, including GitHub Copilot.

Related articles

Claude AI: An overview of Anthropics frontier models, including Claude Sonnet

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BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. There are currently no negotiation processes between Iran and the United States, said the Iranian Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmail Baghaei, Trend reports.

Responding to comments by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding talks with Tehran, Baghaei emphasized that given the U.S. track record of failing to fulfill its commitments and its tendency to impose demands, there is no logical basis for engaging in negotiations at this time.

Addressing claims in the media that a letter from the Iranian president to the crown prince of Saudi Arabia was connected to the U.S., the spokesperson clarified that the letter was delivered by the head of Irans Hajj and Pilgrimage Organization. He stressed that the correspondence was strictly bilateral and focused on cooperation and coordination during the Hajj pilgrimage.

The statement comes a day after President Trump said that a process had begun to hold discussions with Iran on the nuclear issue and expressed a desire to reach an agreement.

Stay up-to-date with more news on Trend News Agency's WhatsApp channel
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 19. The plane crash is being thoroughly investigated, and the Ministry of National Defense will make a detailed statement to the public, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said at a meeting of the ruling party's parliamentary faction in the Grand National Assembly of Turkiye, Trend reports.

I express my condolences to the families of the 20 servicemen whom we laid to rest with prayers and tears last week, the Turkish president added.

Meanwhile, on November 11, a Turkish Air Force C-130 military aircraft crashed in Georgia. Twenty Turkish servicemen were killed in the incident.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, November 20. Progress toward resolving the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan has surprised Russian leader Vladimir Putin, Trend reports.

Speaking at the USSaudi Arabia Investment Forum, Donald Trump said that during a phone conversation, Putin expressed doubt that Washington had succeeded in ending the long-standing confrontation.

According to Trump, the Russian president said he could not believe the conflict could be resolved successfully, to which Trump replied: Let me resolve your war, too.

As a reminder, on August 8, with the participation of the US President, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev and Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan signed a seven-point Joint Declaration in Washington. On the same day, the foreign ministers of both countries initialed an agreement on establishing peace and interstate relations.
Corn price action is showing fractional gains so far on Monday morning. Futures closed out the Friday session with contracts down 10 to 11  cents. Despite the losses, December closed with a gain of 3 cents on the week. Fridays preliminary open interest rose 10,323 contracts, suggesting new selling interest. The CmdtyView national average Cash Corn price was down 11 cents at $3.91 .

After a month off, USDA released an updated Crop Production report on Friday, showing corn yield at 186 bpa. That was just a 0.7 bpa decrease from the September report and dropped output by 62 mbu to 16.752 bbu. Traders were looking for a 184 bpa yield number. As per the WASDE, there was a 207 mbu increase to the 2024/25 carryout number at 1.532 bbu, expected from the September Grain Stocks report, which took total 2025/26 supply 144 mbu higher to 18.309 bbu. Other demand changes came from exports (+100 mbu), which limited the increased the 2025/26 carryout estimate to 44 mbu to 2.154 bbu. The cash average price was also raised by a dime to $4.00.

More News from Barchart

World corn ending stocks are estimated at 281.34 MMT, which was a 0.06 MMT reduction from the September report. That came as China was trimmed by 3.16 MMT, offsetting the US number.

The USDA also released the backlog of flash sale announcements from October 1 to November 12, with 4.915 MMT reported as large sales (exceeding 100,000 MT). Of that, 4.367 MMT was for the current marketing year and 548,640 MT for 2026/27.

AgRural estimates the Brazilian first corn crop at 85% planted as of Thursday, below the 87% from the same period last year .

Dec 25 Corn closed at $4.30 1/4, down 11 1/4 cents, currently up 1 cent

Nearby Cash was $3.91 1/2, down 11 cents,

Mar 26 Corn closed at $4.44, down 11 1/2 cents, currently up  cent

May 26 Corn closed at $4.52 1/4, down 10 3/4 cents, currently up  cent

On the date of publication, Austin Schroeder did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Meta Platforms has awarded Nebius a $3 billion contract for a five-year period. Nebius says that "the size of the contract was limited to the amount of capacity that we had available," indicating that it could have received a bigger deal from Meta if it had more capacity to offer.

Management points out that it is consistently selling out all of its capacity as it brings it online. That's not surprising, as the likes of Meta Platforms and Microsoft are looking to get their hands on whatever AI cloud computing capacity is available in the market. Microsoft, for instance, gave Nebius a contract worth $17.4 billion in September, the final value of which could go up to $19.4 billion. Nebius expects the revenue from this deal to start flowing into its coffers in 2026.

Nebius released its third-quarter results on Nov. 11. The Dutch company reported a 355% increase in revenue from the year-ago period to $146 million. Its growth could have been even stronger if it had more capacity to sell, but Nebius sold out all of its available data center capacity for the quarter.

Demand for Nebius' offerings is so strong that the company's revenue has been growing at an incredible pace. Major hyperscalers have been purchasing capacity from Nebius, putting it in a solid position to capitalize on a market that's expected to keep growing rapidly over the next decade. Does this mean that growth investors should consider adding Nebius to their portfolios? And if one did buy $10,000 worth of the stock now, is it reasonable to expect that investment could grow into a $1 million stake over time?

This stunning rally was the result of the skyrocketing demand for cloud-based artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure. The company provides an end-to-end data center platform that's equipped with powerful graphics processing units (GPUs) and a suite of software solutions, which its customers can use to develop AI applications and train and fine-tune AI models, among other things.

Nebius Group (NASDAQ: NBIS) has made its shareholders significantly richer in the past year, thanks to a massive increase of 350% in its stock price. So, if you invested $10,000 in Nebius stock a year ago, your holding would now be worth just under $45,000.

Nebius' top-line growth is expected to take off, and that's likely to translate into significant upside for investors.

The company is set to bring more capacity online, and that should translate into stronger growth for the company.

Story Continues

Currently, Meta Platforms, Microsoft, and others are sitting on huge contractual backlogs that they need to fulfill. As a result, they are ramping up their capital spending substantially to gain access to more capacity, so that they can run AI workloads in the cloud. This is a natural tailwind for Nebius, since it specializes in providing AI-first data centers.

Looking ahead, the demand for AI data center capacity in the U.S. is expected to grow 30-fold between 2024 and 2035 to a whopping 123 gigawatts (GW). Not surprisingly, Nebius is now focused on aggressively expanding its available capacity. It expects to end 2025 with 220 megawatts (MW) of connected data center power capacity, which would be almost 10 times the capacity it had at the end of 2024.

By the end of 2026, Nebius is expecting its connected data center capacity to land between 800 MW and 1 GW -- multiplying its capacity again by between 4 and 5 times in the space of just a year. And the company aims to increase its contracted electrical power capacity to 2.5 GW by the end of 2026, up from its earlier plan of 1 GW.

That contracted power capacity will give Nebius the room to deploy more computing capacity. Importantly, it won't be surprising to see hyperscalers such as Meta, Microsoft, and others rushing to purchase the new capacity that it brings online. Hence, it is easy to see why analysts are expecting Nebius' revenue to simply take off.

The size of the company's contracts with Meta and Microsoft, apart from the additional capacity that it is set to bring online, also suggests that it can sustain its outstanding revenue growth rates in the long run.

But can Nebius stock help make you a millionaire?

Putting all your money into one stock in the hope that you strike gold isn't a smart thing to do. After all, any signs of a slowdown in Nebius' growth could send the stock crashing.

On one hand, Nebius could fit into a potential millionaire-maker portfolio, considering the remarkable growth that it is expected to deliver.

However, it's an expensive stock to buy right now, trading at a whopping 54 times sales. Of course, the company's growth rate and its order backlog could help it justify that valuation over time, which is the reason why its forward sales multiples are much lower.

If Nebius trades at even 9 times sales and achieves $4.34 billion in revenue in 2027, its market cap could jump to just over $39 billion in just over two years. That would be a 64% increase from current levels. However, its actual gains could turn out to be much better, since it has the potential to deliver much stronger growth.

So, Nebius looks like a nice fit for a diversified portfolio. That's why if you're someone with $10,000 in investible cash and you're looking to put that money into a growth stock, Nebius could be an ideal choice.

Should you buy stock in Nebius Group right now?

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Could Investing $10,000 in Nebius Stock Make You a Millionaire? was originally published by The Motley Fool
December WTI crude oil (CLZ25) today is up +0.04 (+0.07%), and December RBOB gasoline (RBZ25) is down -0.0119 (-0.59%).

Crude oil prices are seeing support today from continued geopolitical risks related to Russia, last Friday's seizure by Iran of an oil tanker in the Gulf of Oman, and the US military buildup for a possible attack on Venezuela, which is the world's 12th-largest oil producer. Oil prices were undercut as Russia's key oil export port of Novorossiysk reportedly resumed some operations after Ukrainian attacks on Friday.

More News from Barchart

Reduced crude exports from Russia are supportive of oil prices. Ukraine has targeted at least 28 Russian refineries over the past three months, exacerbating a fuel crunch in Russia and limiting Russia's crude export capabilities. Ukrainian drone and missile attacks on Russian refineries and oil export terminals curbed Russia's total seaborne fuel shipments to 3.45 million bpd in the four weeks to November 9, down by -130,000 bbl from the prior week and the lowest in two months. Ukraine has knocked out 13% to 20% of Russia's refining capacity by the end of October, curbing production by as much as 1.1 million bpd. New US and EU sanctions on Russian oil companies, infrastructure, and tankers have also curbed Russian oil exports.

Crude prices tumbled to a 3-week low last Wednesday after OPEC revised its Q3 global oil market estimates from a deficit to a surplus, as US production exceeded expectations and OPEC also ramped up crude output. OPEC said it now sees a 500,000 bpd surplus in global oil markets in Q3, versus last month's estimate for a -400,000 bpd deficit. Also, the EIA raised its 2025 US crude production estimate to 13.59 million bpd from 13.53 million bpd last month.

OPEC+ at its November 2 meeting announced that members will raise production by +137,000 bpd in December but will then pause the production hikes in Q1-2026 due to the emerging global oil surplus. The IEA in mid-October forecasted a record global oil surplus of 4.0 million bpd for 2026. OPEC+ is trying to restore all of the 2.2 million bpd production cut it made in early 2024, but still has another 1.2 million bpd of production left to restore. OPEC's October crude production rose by +50,000 bpd to 29.07 million bpd, the highest in 2.5 years.
Harvard University faces renewed scrutiny this week as newly released congressional documents expose what critics are calling a systematic institutional failure: the university's continued entanglement with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein years after publicly declaring those ties severed.

The revelations, forced into the open only after the House Oversight Committee released more than 20,000 pages of documents from Epstein's estate, paint a damning picture of an elite institution that looked the other way while one of its most prominent figures maintained an intimate relationship with a registered sex offender.

The Cover-Up Unravels

At the heart of the scandal is former Harvard President Lawrence Summers, whose extensive correspondence with Epstein continued through July 5, 2019just one day before Epstein's arrest on new federal sex trafficking charges. The emails and text messages show Summers seeking personal advice from Epstein about pursuing a romantic relationship with a woman he described as his mentee, with Epstein calling himself Summers' "wing man."

But this wasn't just a personal failing. It was an institutional one.

Harvard's 2020 investigation concluded that the university stopped accepting donations from Epstein after his 2008 conviction for soliciting prostitution from a minor. That report, conducted by Harvard's general counsel, was supposed to be the final word on the university's Epstein problem. It wasn't.

The newly released documents reveal that while Harvard publicly distanced itself from Epstein, its former president was confiding in him about intimate matters, discussing Harvard initiatives, and maintaining regular contactall while Epstein remained a convicted sex offender.

A Pattern of Institutional Blindness

This wasn't the only way Harvard's ties to Epstein persisted after 2008. The 2020 report itself documented that Epstein visited Harvard's Program for Evolutionary Dynamics offices more than 40 times between 2010 and 2018. He had a permanent keycard. He met with researchers. He was accompanied by young women he introduced as his "assistants."

Yet it took public outcry and congressional investigation to force Harvard to act. Professor Martin Nowak, who ran the program Epstein had initially funded with millions, was only placed on paid administrative leave after the 2020 report's releasetwelve years after Harvard supposedly cut ties with Epstein.

The university knew. And it did nothing.

Congress Forces Harvard's HandAgain

The pattern is clear: Harvard only investigates when forced to by external pressure. The 2020 review came only after Epstein's 2019 arrest and death made headlines worldwide. Now, Harvard has announced yet another investigationthis time into Summers and other affiliatesbut only after Congress released documents the university could no longer ignore.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, herself a former Harvard Law School professor, didn't mince words in calling for Harvard to sever ties with Summers entirely. Summers, she said, showed an inability to distance himself from Epstein that proves he "cannot be trusted" with students.

Harvard's response? Another investigation. Another promise of accountability. Another set of recommendations that will supposedly prevent this from happening again.

But the damage to Harvard's credibility may be irreparable. The university claims it values transparency and accountability, yet its relationship with Epstein tells a different storyone of an institution more concerned with protecting its reputation and its powerful affiliates than with confronting uncomfortable truths.

The Broader Implications

The Epstein scandal at Harvard isn't just about one convicted sex offender's access to an elite institution. It's about the corrosive influence of wealth and power in academia, and about universities' willingness to compromise their stated values when it serves their interests.

Harvard accepted $9.1 million from Epstein between 1998 and 2008. After his conviction, the university allowed him to facilitate millions more in donations from wealthy donors like Leon Black. Development officers knew about Epstein's continued involvement in encouraging donations but took no steps to discourage it, according to the 2020 report.

Meanwhile, one of Harvard's most distinguished faculty membersa former U.S. Treasury Secretary and presidential advisormaintained a close personal relationship with Epstein for years, apparently without consequence or oversight.

A Crisis of Leadership

Harvard's leadership has consistently been reactive rather than proactive. The university didn't investigate Epstein's ties until forced to. It didn't place faculty on leave until public outcry demanded it. It didn't announce a new investigation into Summers until Congress made his continued relationship with Epstein impossible to ignore.

This is not how an institution committed to truth and accountability behaves. This is how an institution in crisis management mode behavesone more concerned with damage control than with genuine reform.

The current investigation, announced this week, may reveal additional policy violations and lead to new reforms. But Harvard has made promises before. The 2020 report included recommendations for reviewing controversial gifts and appointing visiting fellows. Those reforms came too late to prevent Summers' relationship with Epstein from continuing for another decade.

Justice Delayed, Justice Denied

For survivors of Epstein's abuse, Harvard's failures represent more than institutional incompetence. They represent a system that protected their abuser, that gave him legitimacy, that allowed him continued access to prestigious institutions even after his conviction.

As Congress voted overwhelmingly this week to force the Justice Department to release all Epstein-related files, survivors stood in the gallery and cheered. They had fought for years for transparency and accountability. Harvard could have led that fight. Instead, it had to be dragged into it.

The university now faces a reckoning it can no longer avoid. The question is whether this timefinallyit will choose genuine accountability over self-preservation. The evidence so far suggests it will do what it has always done: investigate, issue a report, make recommendations, and hope the scandal fades.

But the survivors deserve better. Students deserve better. And the public deserves an honest accounting of how one of the world's most prestigious universities became complicit in protecting a sexual predator's reputationand why it took congressional subpoenas to force the truth into the light.

Editor's Note: Harvard University spokesperson Jonathan L. Swain stated that "the University is conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents to evaluate what actions may be warranted." Former President Summers announced he would step back from public commitments while continuing to teach at Harvard, stating he is "deeply ashamed" of his relationship with Epstein.
This module is a resource for lecturers

Data breach notification laws

Even though many countries have laws that mandate data breach notification (e.g., Philippines, Data Privacy Act of 2012; Qatar, Law No. (13) of 2016 Concerning Personal Data Protection; and Indonesia, Regulation No. 82 of 2012 regarding Provisions of Electronic Systems and Transactions and its implementing regulation, Regulation No. 20 of 2016 regarding the Protection of Personal Data in an Electronic System), data breach notifications are not mandatory in most countries (e.g., Argentina, Belarus, Costa Rica, Egypt, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, Madagascar, Mauritius, Panama, Russia, and Saudi Arabia) and/or are mandatory for the private sector and not the public sector in other countries, or only for certain sectors in society (e.g., Angola and Serbia). In Argentina, while data breach notification is not required, agencies are required to keep records of data breaches in the event they occur in case they are requested during an investigation or audit.

Did you know? DLA Piper has made an interactive world map of data protection laws, as well as a searchable database of national data protection and data breach notification laws.

Data breach notification laws include provisions relating to the application of these laws, such as the people, agencies and/or authorities the laws apply to and what is considered a breach pursuant to these laws. These laws require entities that have been subjected to a breach (and are covered by the law) to contact the individuals whose data was breached and other relevant parties and inform them about the incident.

These laws particularly include the manner in which a notification occurs, the time limit for this notification, and the people, agencies and/or authorities that need to be contacted about the breach. The GDPR, for example, has an obligatory 72-hour data breach notice for unauthorized access to systems and data, use and distribution of data (Article 33). Data processors are required to notify data controllers within 72 hours of a breach and data controllers are required to notify the supervisory data protection authority in the EU Member State affected within the same time period.

Data breach notification laws also include exceptions to the notification requirement. For instance, under the GDPR, notification of the data subject depends on the severity of the data breach (Article 34). Some data breach notification laws do not require notification if it is determined that the breach will likely not harm the affected parties. In other laws, notification occurs when a breach reaches a particular threshold. In the United States, the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) requires the notification of affected parties within 60 days of the breach. However, in cases where more than 500 individuals' health data was accessed, the Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights and the media must be contacted within 60 days of the breach, whereas if the personal health information of fewer than 500 people was breached, the media does not need to be notified and the Department of Health and Human Services' Office for Civil Rights should be contacted no later than 60 days after the start of the next calendar year (HIPPA Journal, 2015).

Other countries' data breach notification laws also require entities that process data to implement security measures to protect data and/or actions on the part of the breached entity to rectify the situation and/or remediate the harm (e.g., Canada, Indonesia, and the United States).
This module is a resource for lecturers



Larger scale firearms trafficking activities

Large-scale trafficking involves different scenarios and situations. The examples below illustrate some of the most common cases that involve large-scale trafficking and point to some of its characteristics, such as the complexity of its modus operandi and the global nature of its illicit trade.

Illicit arms traffickers are organized to move large-scale shipments of arms, measured in hundreds of tons or more, passing through numerous national law enforcement agencies. Large-scale trafficking is often associated with supplies to groups involved in armed conflicts (State and non-State actors, rebel and insurgent groups inter alia) or shipments to embargoed and banned destinations (UNODC, 2015). It is intuitive, given the size and their military-like structure of many of these armed groups, that they require not only higher quantities but also a certain degree of standardization of their military arsenals, unlike common and organized crime groups.

Upscale instances of firearm trafficking often involve illegal brokers and dealers, and at times covert government agencies dealing in high volume firearm transfers. For example, in the mid-1980s the United States supplied small arms and other light weapons to insurgent and rebel groups in Angola, and to the Contras in Nicaragua (Stohl and Tuttle, 2008). The Soviet occupation of Afghanistan, in the 1980s, saw a wide variety of weapons covertly supplied to the Mujahedeen. Even following the scandal involving Colonel Oliver North and the Iran-Contra affair, and the media exposure of the scale of the misappropriation of government funds devoted to weapons smuggling, the Central Intelligence Agency persisted with a covert weapons supply pipeline to Nicaragua, shielded by a network of front companies (Klare and Anderson, 1996).

Case Scenario 4: Otterloo Case

Diversion of regular arms shipments are often also the result of corrupt practices, illicit brokering and loose controls. A notorious example of this type of trafficking is the so-called " Otterloo case " (named after the ship that transported the weapons), of 1999, where approximately 3000 AK47s and 2.5 million rounds of ammunition were diverted from the Nicaraguan National Police to the Colombian Autodefensas Unidas de Colombia (AUC), a paramilitary terrorist organization in Colombia. The original, legitimate, transaction was to be a trade between the Nicaraguan National Police and a private Guatemalan arms dealership, Grupo de Representaciones Internationales (GIR S.A.), which had offered the police a quantity of new Israeli manufactured pistols and mini-uzis in return for five thousand surplus AK47s and 2.5 million rounds of ammunition. The arms were loaded in Nicaragua on board of a ship called "Otterloo" intended for Panama and from there to the buyer, a private company in Guatemala. Instead, the ship sailed directly to the port of Turbo, Colombia, from where the arms were loaded on 23 trucks and on their way intercepted and delivered to the AUC. The captain of the ship disappeared shortly thereafter, and the maritime company was dissolved several months later. The Otterloo was sold to a Colombian citizen. An investigation conducted upon the request of the Colombian Government by the Organization of American States (OAS) found that the diversion was made possible by negligent actions on the part of various government officials and private companies, and the willful and criminal actions of several private arms merchants (OAS, 2003).

The case and the subsequent international investigations revealed legislative gaps and the importance of more effective controls over brokers and brokering activities. It led eventually to the adoption by the OAS Member States of supplementary model regulation on brokers and brokering activities to prevent diversion and counter illicit trafficking more effectively.

Falsified documentation, corruption and the facilitative role of illicit brokers remain at the heart of many large-scale trafficking cases. In the so-called " Montesinos case", 2000 from 10,000 Kalashnikov rifles that the Jordanian Government had sold to the Peruvian Government were parachuted into the Colombian jungle into the hands of Colombian Guerrilla Fuerzas Armadas Revolucionarias de Colombia (FARC). Although the sale was apparently legitimate on the Jordan side, the Government of Peru had provided falsified documents because the weapons were exchanged for cocaine with the FARC. In 2006, Vladimiro Montesinos, the top intelligence advisor of Alberto Fujimori, President of Peru, at that time received a sentence of 20 years in prison after being found guilty of designing and executing the operation (El Pais, 2006).

Large-scale trafficking of weapons from former government stocks: Post-Soviet and Post-Yugoslav arms trafficking

The role of Ukraine as an ' epicenter of post-Soviet arms trafficking' is highlighted in Overton's (2015) compelling analysis of firearm trafficking. A commission of Inquiry in 1992 had concluded that the nation's military stocks worth some $89 billion were six years later missing $32 billion. These stocks had been stolen, misappropriated and resold to terrorists, warlords, insurgency groups and organized criminals such as the Revolutionary United Front in Sierra Leone, FARC forces in Columbia and Charles Taylor's army in Liberia. Weapons consignments trafficked comprised millions of rounds of ammunition and thousands of AKM-type assault rifles (Overton, 2015: 253).

The ending of the Cold War and the collapse of the Soviet Union created opportunities for criminal entrepreneurs with governmental and military connections to involve themselves in large-scale shipments of illegal firearms. However, now " new realities had created a different kind of smuggler", sometimes unofficially sanctioned by governments but also able to take advantage of global free trade, fluid money, mobile phones, the Internet and a range of covert and flexible business practices (UNODC, 2010: 14; Overton, 2015: 253).

The aforementioned case scenario of weapons trafficking from Eastern Europe is illustrative of how a post-conflict region, like the Balkans, became the centre of major weapon trafficking operations to Iraq, Liberia, Sudan, Burma, Libya and Somalia, facilitated and engineered by international brokers like Tomislav Damnjanovic (Griffiths and Wilkinson, 2007). It also shows how legal and illicit activities, including arms transfers, were intermingled, and the levels of complexity that this type of large-scale trafficking incidence could reach.

Large-scale trafficking into Africa

The events following the collapse of the Qadhafi's regime in Libya in 2011 are also emblematic of the destabilizing consequences that the loss of control over the government stocks has had on larger regions in Africa. Large amounts of weapons stolen from government stocks were for years trafficked in Saharan countries, where they ended up in the hands of terrorist and criminal groups as well as other non-state actors, unleashing a series of events leading to terrorist attacks and political/military crisis in several neighboring countries, such as Mali, Niger and Burkina Faso. The fieldwork conducted by the Conflict Armament Research in 2015 provided evidence on proliferation of weapons from Libya, which reached Mali, Chad, Niger and Syria, and were used in the 2012 Tuareg insurgencies in Mali, and allowed various groups at the beginning of the civil war in Syria to increase their firepower (CAR, 2016).

Legal transfers and illegal re-export: Large-scale trafficking linked to arms embargo violations

Lebrun and Leff (2013) investigated the supply of weapons and ammunition in Sudan and South Sudan for the Small Arms Survey (2013), concluding that the region contained some 2.7 million small arms and light weapons. From mid-2004, following the 2 nd Sudanese civil war (1983-2005), the region became subject to a UN arms embargo, although ' all sides in the conflict continued to gain access to military resources' and the embargo has been violated ' openly, consistently and without consequence'. According to official customs data, weapons produced in China and Iran and legally imported into Sudan appear to predominate in the region (although this will not account for the totality of weapons shipments), indicating that some 58% of weapons and ammunition transfers to Sudan originated in China.

Although such weapons transfers were made initially to the Sudanese authorities and subject to end-user certification guarantees, over two thirds of the weapons in the region are now in the possession of non-State actors (militia groups, insurgencies, tribal forces and rebel paramilitaries) because of retransfers: direct supply to non-State armed groups, battlefield capture, and supply to civilians by non-State groups. LeBrun and Leff (2013) conclude that such weapons continue to fuel insurgencies and inter-communal violence in the region. This is a clear example of legal transfers followed by illegal re-export to third countries, or re-transfer to other end users, especially countries facing conflict situations. These transfers are contrary to the aims of the Arms Trade Treaty, which strives to establish criteria that ensure no arms transfers are made to countries in such situations where there is a high associated risk of retransfers and diversion into armed groups, insurgents and rebels likely to result in serious human rights violations.

Role of end use certification

SIPRI produced another study of end user certification procedures in 2010 (Bromley and Griffiths, 2010). The study found examples of forged, fabricated or otherwise altered End-User Certificates issued for weapons transfers involving Equatorial Guinea, Chad and Tanzania. The same study found examples of certificates, which have since 1945, ensured a great deal of discretion and limited documentary oversight to British arms dealers thought to be operating ' on behalf of' the government. Between 2003 and 2005 a series of falsified EUCs allowed the export of 200,000 AK47 assault rifles from Eastern European States. As the Small Arms Survey (2002) has noted, firearm supplies must be seen as an ' independent variable' in conflict zones, or ' situational facilitators' of a range of forms of violence, spanning from domestic abuse, gang-related and misogynistic violence, all the way to terrorism and civil war (Squires, 2014: 230).
This module is a resource for lecturers

Criminal justice actors and agencies

Law enforcement authorities

The enforcement of laws, including offences, relating to wildlife trafficking is for the most part a matter for national agencies (Nurse, 2015). The criminal justice response to wildlife trafficking usually involves several government sectors, departments, and entities. Several jurisdictions divide the responsibilities for investigating wildlife trafficking between multiple agencies depending on the stage of the investigation or the kind or seriousness of the offences involved (UNODC, 2018). In many jurisdictions, responsibilities in relation to combating and preventing wildlife trafficking is spread between multiple organizations or institutions, which makes national coordination and cooperation particularly important. Furthermore, responsibilities and powers need to be clearly assigned and delineated to give certainty about 'who is who' and 'who does what' in this area (UNODC, 2012; UNODC, 2018). Actors and agencies typically involved in the criminal justice response to wildlife trafficking include the following:

Natural resources, forestry, agriculture, fisheries, national parks, and environment departments

Specialized government departments, such as ministries of forestry, agriculture, natural resources, or the environment usually have particular functions and responsibilities dealing with certain aspects pertaining to wildlife trafficking. Respective officers, such as park rangers, forestry inspectors, wildlife officers, fishery inspectors, environment inspectors, and quarantine officers are typically involved in the detection and identification of wildlife-related offences (Nurse, 2015; UNODC, 2018; Wyatt, 2013). The mandate of these agencies and the powers of such officials is usually (and should be) spelled out in domestic law.This includes powers to conduct investigations, collect and seize evidence, question suspects, prepare case files, et cetera (UNODC, 2018).

Regional perspective: Pacific Islands Example: Tuvalu, wildlife wardens In Tuvalu, wildlife wardens are used to exercise control and law enforcement duties for the purpose of wildlife conservation. The powers of wildlife wardens are set out in section 11 of the Wildlife Conservation Act 2008 and include: (1) In addition to the powers conferred on a private person by section 21 of the Criminal Procedure Code Act a wildlife warden may, without an order from a magistrate and without a warrant, arrest  (a) any person whom he suspects upon reasonable grounds of having committed an offence under this Act; (b) any person who obstructs a wildlife warden while in the execution of his duty or who has escaped or attempts to escape from the lawful custody of a wildlife warden; (c) any person in whose possession any creature or thing is found with reference to which he may reasonably be suspected of having committed an offence under this Act. (2) Whenever a person is arrested by a wildlife warden and the warden has reasonable grounds for believing that that person has about his person  (a) any instruments connected with the kind of offence under this Act which he is alleged to have committed; or (b) any other articles which may furnish evidence against him in regard to the offence under this Act he is alleged to have committed, the warden may search that person and place in safe custody all property other than necessary wearing apparel found upon him and shall without unnecessary delay deliver that property to a police officer. (3) The right to search an arrested person under this section shall not include the right to examine his private person. (4) Where any property has been taken from a person under this section and the person is not charged before any court but is released on the ground that there is no sufficient reason to believe that he has committed any offence, any property so taken from him shall be restored to him. (5) Any wildlife warden who has reason to suspect that any creature or article in respect of which an offence under this Act has been, is being or is about to be committed, is being conveyed, whether on any person or in any vehicle, package or otherwise, or is concealed or carried on any person in a public place or concealed or contained in any vehicle or package in a public place for the purpose of being conveyed, may, without warrant or other written authority, detain and search any such person, vehicle or package and may take possession of and detain any such creature or article in respect of which he may reasonably suspect that an offence under this Act has been, is being or is about to be committed, together with the package, if any, containing it and may also detain the person conveying, concealing or carrying such creature or article.

Police

In the absence of any specialized authority, police are responsible for the investigation of wildlife trafficking (Runhovde, 2016; Nurse, 2015; Tomkins, 2005; UNODC, 2018). Police may also be called upon to conduct specialized investigative measures or exercise advanced functions that are outside the mandate of wildlife officials or other agencies (UNODC, 2018). Relevant law enforcement officers may include personnel from national, regional, and/or local police, specialized police units with responsibility for wildlife trafficking, economic and financial crime, crime scene and forensic investigations, telecommunications, undercover operations, et cetera (UNODC, 2018; UNODC, 2012). Some police organizations join forces with other government agencies, such as the Blue Rhino Task Team formed in Namibia in 2018. The Blue Rhino Task Team is a dedicated, multi-agency unit for quick responses to poaching incidents.

Regional perspective: Pacific Islands Example: Solomon Islands, law enforcement of crimes relating to the environment The Royal Solomon Islands Police Force (RSIPF) has general duties and powers to prevent the commission of and enforce crimes in Solomon Islands. This includes environmental crimes. Environmental crimes in the Solomon Islands can also be enforced by several government bodies and agencies which includes, inter alia: The Ministry of Environment, Conservation, Climate Change and Disaster Management which is responsible for the Environment Act 1998, Environmental Regulations 2008, Protected Areas Act 2010, Protected Areas Regulations 2012, Wildlife Protection and Management Act 1998, and the Wildlife Protection and Management Regulations 2008.

The Ministry of Forestry and Research which is responsible for the Forest Resources and Timber Utilisation Act (Cap 40), Forest Resources and Timber (Prescribed Forms) Regulations, Forest Resources and Timber Utilisation (Felling Licences) Regulations 2005, Forest Resources and Timber Utilisation (Protected Species) Regulations 2012, Timber (Levy and Mill Licensing) Regulations 2005, and the Revised Solomon Islands Code of Logging Practice 2002.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources which is responsible for the Fisheries Management Act 2015. The relevant Ministry usually has the power to appoint specific authorised officers for the purposes of enforcing their legislation. In addition, the Protected Areas Act 2010 gives enforcement powers to rangers, who are members of the local community. RSIPF and Ministry officers are usually given certain powers with respect to the enforcement of environmental crime. The nature of these powers depends on the relevant law, but generally the powers include the power to inspect, search and seize, and in some cases the power of arrest. (Royal Solomon Islands Police Force, 2015)

Customs

In many jurisdictions, the role of Customs evolved from traditional revenue collection responsibilities to an increasingly important role in the detection and investigation of wildlife and forest crime (Wyatt, 2013; see also, Polner, 2015). Customs agencies may come into contact with wildlife trafficking at ports, airports, and land borders. They are generally mandated to detect and identify wildlife trafficking at these locations by specific customs laws or similar legislation (UNODC, 2018; see also, de Klemm, 1993). Further, Customs officers often play an important role in special investigations, such as investigations involving controlled deliveries (UNODC, 2018). Accordingly, relevant officials need to be adequately trained and equipped with the relevant powers to conduct investigations, prepare file cases, and collect and seize evidence. Some countries have specialized customs units to detect wildlife trafficking (UNODC, 2018; see also, Wyatt, 2013). Nevertheless, the detection of wildlife trafficking is often a lower priority for customs officials compared to other crime types such as drug or arms trafficking.

Regional perspective: Pacific Islands Example: Fiji, Revenue and Customs Service  Department of the Environment partnership Enforcement of CITES requirements and detection of wildlife crime in Fiji is primarily undertaken through inspections conducted by inspection units of Fiji Customs at the border. Inspections are based on risk profiles, although due to the volume of trade the units are only set up in the major ports of Suva and Lautoka, and Nadi Airport (Fiji Customs 2011). Domestically, the Fiji Island CITES Management Authority (FICMA) also conducts inspections at stores (particularly aquarium companies) and handicraft centres. To assist enforcement efforts, Fiji has conducted capacity-building programs for relevant government officers, including training on CITES enforcement and the development of a CITES guidance manual for enforcement officers. In October 2021, the Fiji Revenue and Customs Service and the Department of Environment forged a new partnership to combat the trafficking in fauna and flora at Fijis borders. This partnership involves, among other things, CITES training for Customs Border Control Officers and is a recognition that coordination and partnership building is essential to stop the illegal wildlife trade. (Horne 2013, Singh 2021)

Coast guards

As with Customs, civilian coast guards, where they do exist, may come into contact with instances of wildlife trafficking and, in some jurisdictions, have a mandate to investigate such cases and question suspects (UNODC, 2012).

Prosecution and judicial authorities

Prosecution authorities and, in some jurisdictions, judges, oversee aspects of the investigation of wildlife trafficking and are involved in the application for, and issue of, warrants and the authorization to use certain special investigative techniques (UNODC, 2018). Depending on the legal tradition of the country, prosecutors and judges may have wide discretion when dealing with a wildlife trafficking case. Sentencing plays a pivotal role in the public perception of the severity of the crime.

Other agencies and officials

Depending on the jurisdiction, other government agencies, such as the military, may exercise functions where they encounter wildlife trafficking. The specific role and mandate of such agencies and their staff in the investigation of wildlife trafficking will depend on domestic law and administrative arrangements. Other specialized agencies such as financial investigation units, anti-corruption commissions, and tax revenue authorities may also have a role in this context (UNODC, 2018).

Private sector involvement

In some jurisdictions, private sector organizations exercise functions that, directly or indirectly, relate to the enforcement of laws against wildlife trafficking (Nurse, 2013). This may also involve private firms and individuals who provide security in national parks or other designated places (Nurse, 2015; Nurse, 2013; DLA Piper, 2014; UNODC, 2012). More and more, national agencies are opening up to cooperation with the private sector and civil society (Nurse, 2013; Polner, 2015; see also Khooshie Lal Panjabi, 2014).

Civil society, community policing

Local people who live in or near protected areas, national parks, or game reserves where wildlife may be poached, where plants may be harvested, or where illegal logging occurs play a vital role in the detection of, and the fight against wildlife trafficking.

The involvement of local communities and civil society is a vital part of any strategy to detect and prevent wildlife trafficking and is increasingly recognized in national policies and international strategies. Practical measures that involve civil society, especially rural communities, include, inter alia, community conservancies, community-run anti-poaching units, and other forms of community policing (Hubschle & Shearing, 2018; Ratsimbazafy et al, 2018). Other strategies aim to build communities that are resilient to poaching and wildlife trafficking, that create incentives to report and prevent such crime, and improve rural livelihoods and reduce the demand for wildlife contraband in rural and urban areas (Hubschle & Shearing, 2018; Bukhi Mabele, 2017).

Example: Rhino protection in Nepal Like their African relatives, Asian rhinoceros are frequently targeted by poachers. The vast majority of Nepal's rhinos live in Chitwan National Park. In the 1990s, Nepalese conservation authorities reached out to local communities to actively involve them in protecting rhinos and conservation areas. Nepal's Buffer Zone Management Regulation of 1996 granted rights to local communities to manage and use natural resources within such areas. A management committee consisting of elected community representatives decides on the development activities implemented in these zones. Park authorities share approximately one third of the park's revenue with communities that live adjacent to protected areas. Over the years, these initiatives have made a real impact and have local residents deeply invested in managing and caring for protected areas and, importantly, have made a substantial contribution to greater protection of Nepal's rhino population. (Hubschle & Shearing, 2018)

Example: Community-based natural resource management in Namibia Community-based natural resource management (CBNRM) is a rigorous process of institutional reform that combines the devolution and delineation of property rights with collective action in rural communities to improve the value and sustainability of wild resources. Since 2000, Namibia's national CBNRM programme has led the way in the region by devolving wildlife use rights and all benefits to self-defined communities. This established community conservancies, and local government was bypassed to avoid district councils absorbing a disproportionate share of wildlife revenues. The programme is well organized and has resulted in a rapid increase in registered and emerging conservancies. An additional benefit has been the demonstrable recovery of wildlife populations including endangered species. The rapid growth of the concept has required a new system of governance based on bottom-up accountability and high levels of local participation. (Child & Barnes, 2010)

Regional and specialized law enforcement initiatives

Several regional specialized initiatives have been set up to tackle particular aspects of wildlife trafficking or to focus on particular geographical areas.

The Forest Law Enforcement and Governance (FLEG) processes, for instance, are regional initiatives coordinated by the World Bank and organized in cooperation with governments of consumer countries. Thus far, regional FLEG processes have been set up for Africa, North Asia, Southeast Asia, Europe, and Latin America (Strydom, 2016; UNODC, 2012). The objectives of the FLEG processes are to improve governance in the forest sector and to foster international dialogue and cooperation to fight illegal logging and trade by improving linkages and harmonizing regulations (UNODC, 2012).

Regional wildlife enforcement networks (WENs) have been set up to facilitate cross-border cooperation between agencies involved in preventing and suppressing wildlife trafficking. These include the Horn of Africa Wildlife Enforcement Network (HAWEN), the North American Wildlife Enforcement Group (NAWEG), the European Union Wildlife Trade Enforcement Group (established by Council Regulation (EC) No 338/97 of 9 December 1996 on the protection of species of wild fauna and flora by regulating trade therein, OJ L 61, 3 March 1997), and the ASEAN Wildlife Enforcement Network (ASEAN-WEN) (Strydom, 2016; UNODC, 2012; see also, Wyatt, 2013), which was merged with the ASEAN working group on CITES to the ASEAN Working Group on CITES and Wildlife Enforcement (AWG CITES & WE). Similarly, a task force has been set up through the Lusaka Agreement on Co-operative Enforcement Operations Directed at Illegal Trade in Wild Fauna and Flora to facilitate cooperative activities among national agencies in carrying out investigations on wildlife trafficking. The task force comprises law enforcement from States Parties as well as locally recruited support staff.

The International Consortium on Combating Wildlife Crime (ICCWC) comprises the Secretariat of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES), the International Criminal Police Organization (INTERPOL), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Bank, and the World Customs Organization (WCO). The Consortium was established to support national wildlife law enforcement agencies and to stimulate a coordinated law enforcement response to environmental crime, helping to deliver on-the-ground action and to ensure transnational organized criminal groups are identified and disrupted (UNODC, 2012; Scanlon & Farroway, 2016). ICCWC organizes global meetings of the wildlife enforcement networks to promote the sharing of information on best practices and lessons learned about the establishment and functioning of the wildlife enforcement networks (ICCWC, 2016; see also Wyatt, 2013).

Regional perspective: Eastern and Southern Africa Example: Horn of Africa Wildlife Law Enforcement Network (HAWEN) In 2011, the countries of the Horn of Africa agreed to join forces in their fight against wildlife trafficking. In October 2012, the Horn of Africa Wildlife Enforcement Network (HAWEN) was initiated in Addis Ababa. HAWEN facilitates information sharing and intelligence gathering, as well as law enforcement monitoring. Furthermore, it provides a platform for joint capacity development, evidence handling and legal prosecution of wildlife crime cases. Additionally, collaborating with other WENs is a key activity of HAWEN. The countries committed to HAWEN are: Djibouti, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, and Uganda. (CITES, undated).

Regional perspective: Eastern and Southern Africa Example: Regional police cooperation Southern Africa has established regional police cooperation in order to address regional and transnational organized crime: The Southern Africa Regional Police Chiefs Coordination Organisation (SARPCCO). SARPCCO was founded in 1995 and includes members from 16 States. Guiding principles of SARPCCO include, among others, the spirit of mutual cooperation, equality of all Member States, mutual benefit to all Member States, and observance of all human rights. Throughout the years, SARPCCO has been promoting cooperation and joint strategies among the Member States. Furthermore, the organization facilitated management strategies and developed training modules for law enforcement personnel. It also provides policing recommendations to Member States. Similarly, Eastern Africa established the Eastern Africa Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation (EAPCCO). INTERPOL partners with both organizations to support Member States addressing cross-border organized crime. (Southern Africa Regional Police Chiefs Coordination Organisation, 2019).

Regional perspective: Pacific Islands Example: Pacific Transnational Crime Network In 2002, the Pacific Transnational Crime Network (PTCN) was established to create a police-led proactive and investigative capability to combat transnational crime in the Pacific through a multi-agency and regional approach. The Network comprises Transnational Crime Units in 20 Pacific Islands States. These units are centrally coordinated by the Pacific Transnational Crime Coordination Centre (PTCCC) based in Apia, Samoa. The PTCCC mostly serves to facilitate information sharing through person-to-person and agency-to-agency contacts and through a secure database. Its main purpose is to build partnerships between law enforcement agencies in the Pacific and for capacity development. The PTCCC also produces the PTCN Transnational Crime Assessment, an annual intelligence report on cross-border criminal activities in the region. The report comprises broad operational-level information as well as strategic intelligence-informed forecasts or preeminent transnational crime trends impacting the region, and as such is not publicly-available. (Schloenhardt, 2021)
Members of the collegiate section of the UW Society of Women Engineers (SWE) recently attended the SWE Conference in New Orleans. Pictured, from left, are Yesenia Vicencio Delgadillo, Paula Medina Bolanos, Laura Rojas, Preetika Kaur, Kelly Joyce, Payson Webb and Margaret Hollingshead. (UW Photo)

Seven members of the collegiate section of the Society of Women Engineers (SWE) at the University of Wyoming recently traveled to New Orleans to take advantage of an extraordinary opportunity.





The SWE puts on the largest conference for women in STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) each year. This years conference, which took place Oct. 23-25, featured more than 200 informational sessions and a career fair boasting over 400 employers from across the globe. Attendees came from 85 different countries. The UW contingent were not only the lone representatives from the university, but also from Wyoming.





The collegiate section SWE members who attended this years conference were Margaret Hollingshead and Yesenia Vicencio Delgadillo, both from Rock Springs; Paula Medina Bolanos and Kelly Joyce, both from Cody; Payson Webb, of Gillette; Laura Rojas, of Bogota, Colombia; and Preetika Kaur, of Ludhiana, Punjab, India.





The annual SWE Conference is an opportunity for members to learn, network and build their careers. Because the conference is global in scale, attendees gain insight into the scope of fields needing engineers and can interact with major employers, such as Toyota and Apple, companies students wouldnt necessarily have contact with at local and regional conferences. For example, a past member of UWs SWE is now designing roller coasters for Disney -- a position she secured at an SWE conference.





There were people in every sector, including ceramic engineering, and engineers working with toilet paper, tape and even diapers. There were so many ways to take on engineering, says Joyce, section treasurer and a second-year computer engineering major.





With the wide variety of session topics -- from emerging technologies to industry insights, to professional development, to navigating STEM careers as a woman -- there was something for everyone, regardless of background or major.





Joyce, for example, took advantage of a seminar on stage presentation to improve her public speaking skills. Since she will be taking over the reins when Webb graduates next year, Hollingshead, SWE vice president and a fourth-year mechanical engineering major, made sure to attend sessions on leadership and improving engagement for the student chapter.





This is Webbs third year attending the conference, and, with graduation on the near horizon, she had her eye primarily on her job search. So, she focused on networking at the career fair, where she put in several applications and landed a job interview.





Its always so fun, Webb says. The energy in the room is so electric, and the industry talks are so motivating. Its a place for empowering women in STEM and meeting women going through the same things.





Rojas, the SWE social media manager and a third year Ph.D. student in energy and petroleum engineering, also had her eye on the job market, with a focus on the oil, gas and artificial intelligence sectors.





I came back from the conference very motivated, Rojas says. There were so many opportunities for jobs, internships and networking.





Due to recent changes at the federal level, funding to attend the conference proved more challenging for the student organization to secure this year. However, with guidance from Marjorie Jaeger, director of business operations in the office of the vice president for student affairs, and faculty adviser Eva Ferre-Pikal, an associate professor of electrical engineering and computer science, the SWE was able to garner funding through the Associated Students of the University of Wyoming and the support of donors on UWs Giving Day.





SWE is dedicated to empowering women to achieve their full potential in careers as engineers and leaders, as well as expanding the image of the engineering profession as a positive force in improving quality of life and demonstrating the value of diversity.





The organization meets every other Tuesday at 4 p.m. in Room 350 of the Engineering Education and Research Building. The group also hosts activities throughout the semester, including an upcoming presentation practice event Nov. 20. All activities and meetings are open to students of any level, major and gender.





To learn more about how to get involved or how to support SWE, follow the organization on social media at @swe_uwyo or email Payson Webb at pwebb6@uwyo.edu.
(Reuters) -Kraken, one of the world's largest cryptocurrency exchanges, said on Wednesday it has confidentially filed for an initial public offering in the U.S., as digital asset companies look to tap the new listings market before the 2026 midterm elections.

The company is poised to become the latest crypto exchange to list in the U.S., fueling competition in a sector where sentiment has turned more upbeat amid support from the Trump administration.

Companies such as stablecoin issuer Circle and crypto exchanges Gemini and Bullish have seen renewed success in going public in the U.S. this year.

President Donald Trump, who has pledged to make America the "crypto capital of the world", signed the Genius Act into law earlier this year, boosting confidence in the digital asset sector. The legislation, aimed at regulating stablecoins, comes alongside other measures such as the proposed Clarity bill, which includes proposed changes in crypto market supervision.

Kraken's announcement comes a day after the company said it was valued at $20 billion in its latest capital raising, a 33% increase in under two months. The funding involved participation from Wall Street heavyweights Jane Street and Citadel Securities.

The crypto exchange plans to go public in the first quarter of 2026, Reuters had reported last month.

With midterm elections less than a year away, analysts expect some urgency from crypto companies in pursuing IPOs to get ahead of any uncertainty. The presidential party tends to lose ground in midterm elections, which could reshape the landscape for the digital asset industry.

Crypto-focused asset manager Grayscale and custody startup BitGo are among the companies currently in the IPO pipeline.

Kraken, founded in 2011, said the number of shares to be offered and the price range have not yet been determined.

Initially focused on crypto, the company has expanded across assets classes in recent months, including equities with the rollout of commission-free trading.

(Reporting by Arasu Kannagi Basil and Pritam Biswas in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)
Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images

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BTC continue to head downwards

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Bitcoin continues its adventure below the $95,000 level, and has reached handles so low, that all gains made on the year are null and void. BTC skyrocketed to the infamous $100,000 per coin price on the back of Trump winning the 2024 election towards the end of the year, which now proves to be a level of resistance. At this time of writing, bitcoin is trading below $93,000 and momentum continues to favor the downside as support levels continue to be broken through. Earlier this morning, Michael Saylor announced that Strategy (NYSE:MSTR) has acquired 8,178 BTC at $102,171 per BTC. This brings Strategys total holdings to 649,870 BTC at an acquisition price of $74,433 per bitcoin. With this announcement having no positive effect on spot markets, the signs of a bear market are beginning to creep in.

End of November options contracts for BTC are not painting a favorable picture either. Open interest for the 28NOV25 $80,000 and $90,000 put contracts make up over 15,000 contracts on Deribit, accounting for nearly 12% off all open interest. Funding rates on perpetual futures continue to compress as well, falling below the 10% annualized level across several exchanges.

With the lack of macro data this week and the various headwinds in the news facing the Trump Administration, it is hard to be optimistic about the price action we are seeing. The China trade deal actually occurring could be a positive catalyst, along with the Fed fully announcing QE is back with the money printer being fired up.

Until then, escaping negative sentiment on social media will be a challenge.

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HONG KONG (AP)  The Dutch government said Wednesday its relinquishing control of Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, easing a standoff between China and the Netherlands that threatened supplies of semiconductors vital for global auto manufacturing.

Economics Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans said he was suspending an earlier order to take control of Nexperia under a rarely invoked Cold War-era law.

The Dutch government had cited national security concerns and serious governance shortcomings when it took effective control of Nexperia, which is headquartered in the city of Nijmegen but owned by Chinas Wingtech Technology. Officials said they were trying to prevent the loss of crucial tech know-how that could threaten Europes economic security.

Nexperia chips are widely used by carmakers in North America, Japan and South Korea. Automakers warned in recent weeks that they were running low on the chips, and Honda was forced to shut down a factory in Mexico producing its popular HR-V crossover for North American markets.

Karremans said he was suspending his order issued in late September as a show of goodwill in a decision that came after constructive meetings with Chinese authorities over the past few days.

In light of recent developments, The Netherlands has considered it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act, he said in a statement.

We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world."

Chinas Commerce Ministry welcomed the decision, but said it's only a first step in resolving the issue.

A Dutch court decision limiting Wingtechs control over Nexperia remains a key obstacle to resolving the issue, the ministry said. It added both countries should continue to work together on the matter.

The dispute is an example of how Europe is caught between Washington and Beijing in their rivalry over trade and tech. Netherlands issued its seizure order after the United States last year put Wingtech on its entity list of companies that face export controls, and then expanded it in September to include subsidiaries including Nexperia.

The boardroom battle included the ousting of Nexperias Chinese CEO, and Wingtech founder, Zhang Xuezheng. American officials had told the Dutch government he should be replaced to avoid trade restrictions, according to a court filing.

Beijing responded by blocking the export of Nexperia chips from its Chinese factory in early October, a ban it lifted in recent days as part of the U.S.-China trade truce following U.S. President Donald Trumps meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.
Niamh O'Donoghue

A dole recipient laundering over 40,000 in his bank account has been jailed at Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

Eoin Wiley (24) pleaded guilty to one count of money laundering at AIB Balbriggan on dates between June 9th 2023, and July 24th 2023, inclusive.

Wiley of Dun Saithne Crescent, Balbriggan, Dublin has 155 previous convictions for offences including assault causing harm, driving offences, intoxication in a public place and possession of stolen property. He only receives 120 a week on social welfare, the court heard.

Garda Keith Coleman of the Economic Crime Bureau in Balbriggan told the court Wiley is a recidivist offender and is very well known to gardai.

In August 2023, a district court order was made in relation to his AIB account, the court heard. Wileys bank accounts from June 9th, 2023 and July 24th, 2023, inclusive, showed various deposits from a number of third parties amounting to 41,920.81. Cash withdrawals were made from ATMs, the court heard.

The Department of Social Protection said Wiley received Jobseekers Allowance and was not in employment. Gardai called to his address and arrested him for money laundering. When interviewed at Balbriggan Garda Station, nothing of evidential value emerged.

He was released and a file was sent to the Director of Public Prosecutions. He was charged on June 25th last and entered a signed plea. He affirmed his signed plea in the Circuit Court.

Id put him medium to high as there werent many people below him, Garda Coleman told the court. He was withdrawing the cash, he added.

In mitigation, Pieter Le Vert BL, defending, said Wiley was an only child and he has a partner and two children. He is now in custody. His father passed away, and he missed the birth of his daughter while in custody.

Counsel said Wiley was diagnosed with ADHD, and drugs were a very serious problem, but he did have periods of sobriety. He got a Safe Pass and worked as a labourer after the birth of one of his children.

The maximum penalty is 14 years, the court was told. Judge Crowe set a headline sentence of two years, six months from today, with credit for time spent in custody.

Mr Le Vert asked the judge if she could suspend a portion of it. Judge Crowe said she would suspend the final three months of it.
High Court Reporter

An Irish father who has accused the Polish State of "stealing" his child has been given a court date for the hearing of his case over the alleged inaction of authorities here in assisting with her return.

The man, who cannot be identified to protect the identity of the child, told the High Court on Tuesday that Polish authorities, whom he accuses of "severe corruption", had "declared war" on him.

The man seeks court orders directing the Irish State to take immediate intervening action at the "highest EU levels" to assist in the return of his child, who is an Irish citizen. He accused the State of abandoning the rights of a vulnerable member of society.

The court has previously heard that the child's mother took her to Poland, the mother's homeland, in February 2024, without the father's consent.

He has been unable to track her down despite a Polish court order that the child be returned to Ireland, the court has heard.

The Polish order, while accepted by the State here, is being appealed for the second time by the children's ombudsman in Poland.

The man has taken the action against the Taoiseach, the Minister for Justice and the Minister for Foreign Affairs.

He has accused the Department of Foreign Affairs of displaying "utter weakness and abdication in the face of a foreign state seizing one of its children and trampling over a fathers rights".

He has said that he has been in possession of a valid return order for the child since last May and had made 11 attempts in Poland to locate and collect his child.

However, he says that the child is "nowhere to be found" and that he has been accused of making a false missing person report to Polish police.

At the High Court on Tuesday, the man told Mr Justice Garrett Simons that he had been in recent correspondence with Polish authorities and had in his possession documents from the Department for Foreign Affairs and Polish authorities which the State here had claimed they were not aware of.

"This is the Polish State stealing my child. They have put death on me and on my family, and my child is in danger," he said.

"I am 626 days without my child," the man said.

The man alleges that documents in his possession from Polish authorities show his young daughter had been the subject of "illegal drugs" used by a hospital with the authorisation of his wife, in treating a medical condition for the child.

He submits that "Polish police had her [his wife] in custody and released her".

The man alleges "severe corruption" arising from documents he has received from authorities in Poland and says that he was now in a situation of "political ping pong" because the State here "don't know what is going on and I am not continuing to do their own homework".

Lawyers for the State told Mr Justice Simons that their defence would be filed at the close of business tomorrow and that they appreciate the urgency of the matter, which had "significant" legal issues.

The man repeated that he was "626 days" without his child.

The case will be heard in December and is expected to last a day.

In October the man, who represented himself, said he no longer wished to be part of the process despite the court ruling in his favour and refusing a motion by the State to strike out the case. However, Mr Justice Simons gave the man two weeks to reconsider.

Lawyers for the State had argued that it is up to Polish authorities to execute the order made by their courts and it is not for the Irish State to intervene.
Tom Tuite

Gardai have launched an international enquiry via diplomatic channels on the authenticity of documentation concerning a Somalian youth accused of murdering Ukrainian teenager Vadym Davydenko in care in Dublin.

The youth, aged 17 according to his charge, appeared at the Childrens Court on Tuesday when the case was adjourned pending directions from the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).

His earlier two hearings saw him surrounded by gardai in helmets and protective gear. However, those measures were not required at Tuesday's latest court appearance, his first conducted via video link from a juvenile remand facility.

He spoke up, saying, I want to know about the evidence from Brussels, after Judge Paul Kelly was informed that gardai have contacted Somalian authorities via the embassy in Belgium.

Vadym, 17, was stabbed during an incident at about 11am on October 16th at a 24-hour facility in an apartment building in Donaghmede.

He had been placed there alongside other young people separated from their families and seeking international protection.

Vadym recently graduated from high school in Kyiv, travelled to Ireland and arrived about three days before he was fatally injured.

Emergency services responded to a call for assistance at the premises. The boy was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Earlier in the proceedings, an order was made that the accused would receive urgent psychiatric and medical attention.

On Tuesday, for his third court appearance, Detective Sergeant Mark Quill asked for a four-week adjournment. He told Judge Kelly that the case file was at an advanced stage, but that important post-mortem and forensic reports were still awaited.

Dressed in a red pullover, black pants and white gloves, the accused, in a video link room at the Oberstown Detention Campus in Dublin, engaged with the proceedings with the aid of an interpreter in the courtroom.

Defence counsel Doireann McDonagh told him that this adjournment had been discussed with his solicitor, and that there was consent for the case to go back four weeks.

The accused, who sat fidgeting with his hair during the hearing, confirmed he agreed to an adjournment until December 16th.

Judge Kelly remanded him in continuing custody to appear on that date by video link for the DPPS directions.

Detective Sergeant Quill added: Enquiries remain ongoing in relation to documentation. We have had open dialogue with the Somalian authorities, located in Brussels, that is the embassy we have to go through.

"They are carrying out enquiries on our behalf; documents have to be verified by the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and International Co-operations in Somalia to verify authenticity. They have not provided us with a time frame; it has to be kept on top of.

At that point, the accused replied through his interpreter that he wanted to know about that evidence.

The judge explained that the sergeant was engaging with the embassy in Brussels. Detective Sergeant Quill added that there was a bureaucratic issue as a document had been issued by a member state rather than the federal government.

A solicitor for Tusla, the child and family agency, also attended the proceedings. The youth cannot be identified due to the Children Act's reporting restrictions.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

A protest outside the Dail has called for the inclusion of services in the Occupied Territories Bill, as the Government said it still needs legal clarity on the matter.

Demonstrators called for the urgent passing of the Occupied Territories Bill as they gathered in Molesworth Street outside an entrance to Leinster House on Wednesday evening.

The Governments version of the Bill would limit trade with illegal Israeli settlements, but activists and opposition figures have raised concerns that it would include only trade of goods and not services.

The coalition committed to passing a ban on goods from illegal settlements, but Ireland Palestine Solidarity Campaign chairwoman Zoe Lawlor accused the Government of doing nothing to pass the Bill.

She said: Now, as we approach the Dails Christmas break, there is still silence.

This Bill is a bare minimum action that Ireland should have taken a long time ago  it is astounding to think that it remains stalled.

People Before Profit representative Richard Boyd Barrett (Damien Eagers/PA)

Earlier in the Dail, People Before Profit representative Richard Boyd Barrett brought a motion calling on the Government to extend the Bill to include services and enact it as a matter of utmost urgency before the end of the year.

He said: This Government speaks out of both sides of its mouth when it comes to the issue of Palestine.

With one breath it states that it stands with the people of Palestine against the crimes that Israel inflicts on them and promises sanctions, and with the other breath it reassures its friends in the White House that it is going to do nothing at all, and the consequence is that despite promises for nearly 10 years on the Occupied Territories Bill, it still has not passed it.

It is bad enough that, since 2018, the Government refuses to pass this Bill to impose sanctions on Israel for the illegal settlements in the West Bank, but then after two years of a genocidal massacre, the fact the Government still refuses to pass this Bill having made solemn promises in the recent general election that it would pass it, and that it is seeking to dilute it by leaving out services from the Bill, is an absolute disgrace.

Minister of State Thomas Byrne said the Bill must be legally robust (Brian Lawless/PA)

Thomas Byrne, Minister of State at the Department of Foreign Affairs, said Ireland is strongly opposed to Israels settlement policy and activities, including in and around East Jerusalem.

He said the Government has no policy issue regarding the inclusion of services, but said the Bill must be legally robust and withstand challenge.

Similarly, the question of implementation must be carefully considered, he said. The trade in services is considerably more complex than goods, and there remains considerable legal uncertainty as to whether the inclusion of services is permissible under EU law.

We know for certain the inclusion of goods is permissible under EU law. We need legal clarity on the point on services.

Minister for Foreign Affairs Helen McEntee (Liam McBurney/PA)

Mr Boyd Barrett said new Foreign Affairs Minister Helen McEntees decision not to address the Dail on the motion was a studied exercise in contempt designed to make sure that this debate does not get any media coverage.

He called on the Government to do a hell of a lot more and be completely boycotting the state of Israel.

After the Dail passed the motion without opposition from the Government, opposition TDs contended the Government had no intention of doing it.
Waterford TD Conor McGuinness has called on fellow TDs Mary Butler and John Cummins to reject a proposed EU trade agreement that could affect Irish farmers.

The Sinn Fein spokesperson on Rural Affairs, Community Development and the Gaeltacht made the comments as part of his party's motion to reject the EU-Mercosur trade agreement.

He said: "Any TD who claims to stand with farm families and rural communities cannot, in good conscience, hide behind government spin while a deal of this scale threatens livelihoods across the South-East.

The deal could see a huge surge of beef imports from Argentina and Brazil into the EU, which would impact on Irish farmers. The deal has also raised concerns for the potential environmental impact.

'Bad deal'

Deputy McGuinness commented: "The Mercosur trade agreement is a bad deal for Irish agriculture, its a bad deal for Irish and EU consumers and its a bad deal for the environment. Sinn Feins motion today is calling for cross-party support to send a clear message that Ireland opposes this deal.

Governments response to Mercosur so far has been lacklustre. They have taken a sit-back-and-wait approach rather than fighting for the interests of Irish farmers and their position of opposing the deal in its current form is no longer tenable."

The former Dungarvan councillor went on: "Negotiations are finished, the deal is done and now is the time to decide if you are for or against the deal.

We all know that Irish beef is produced to a world-class standard and it will be expected to compete against cheap, substandard beef from South America that is produced to poor animal welfare standards with little or no traceability regulations."

The motion by Sinn Fein is urging the Government to reject the agreement over concerns about damaging the Irish and European Union consumer and its environmental consequences: "The Mercosur Agreement is at odds with EU and Irish domestic climate legislation and will lead to greater deforestation and environmental destruction in the Mercosur countries."

Deputy McGuinness noted that it was "not too late" for the deal to be scrapped.

"It is not too late to stop this deal, and the Irish Government should be doing everything it can and engage with other member states to form a blocking minority at the EU Council meeting in December," he said.
Paschal Donohoe stepping down as finance minister to take up a role at the World Bank is the main story on Wednesday's front pages.

Mr Donohoe stepping down, and Simon Harris taking over as Minister for Finance, is the main story in The Irish Times, Irish Examiner and Irish Independent.

The Echo leads with a story on the murder of a woman in a stabbing attack at her home.

The Irish Daily Star leads with a story on the murder of Michael Gaine.

Crime boss Gerry 'The Monk' Hutch is considering running in the Dublin Central byelection that will take place after Paschal Donohoe's departure, the Irish Daily Mail reports.

The Irish Daily Mirror leads with a story on a vigil for the five young people killed in a road accident in Co Louth at the weekend.

The Herald leads with a story on Enoch Burke being jailed again.

In the North, The Irish News leads with a story on school leaders who are suspended or on leave.

The Belfast Telegraph leads with a story on a Ryanair passenger who ended up in Portugal instead of Northern Ireland.

The UK front pages feature a range of stories.

The Google boss has said AI cannot be trusted, Metro reports.

The UK has warned China about spying after MI5 exposed efforts to influence MPs, the Financial Times reports.

The British government is planning a mansion tax, the i Paper reports.

Britain is 'not ready to defend an invastion,' the Daily Telegraph reports.

The Guardian leads with stories on the reports of Chinese spying and racism allegations against Nigel Farage.

The star leads with a story on the BBC confirming a seventh season of Line of Duty.

The Sun leads with a story on a British man who has committed war crimes fighting for Russia in Ukraine.

One of Nigel Farage's former classmates has claimed the Reform UK leader told him 'Hitler was right', the Daily Mirror reports.

The Times leads with the Chinese spy story.

The New York Times and The Washington Post lead with stories on US politicians voting for the release of all the Epstein files.
By Toby Sterling and Eduardo Baptista

AMSTERDAM/BEIJING (Reuters) -A move by the Netherlands to step back from taking control of computer chip maker Nexperia was welcomed by China on Wednesday as a "first step in the right direction" to easing chip supply shortages, following talks between the two governments.

Nexperia and its Chinese owner Wingtech repeated they are at odds, however, while carmakers said supply chain disruptions are not resolved. China's commerce ministry said the Dutch move fell short of fully ending its intervention as it had demanded.

The Dutch government took control of Nexperia on Sept. 30, saying the move was necessary to prevent the company's former CEO from moving European operations to China from its current base in the Netherlands. In response, Beijing halted exports of Nexperia's finished products on Oct. 4, a measure it has since partly relaxed.

DUTCH POSITIVE ABOUT MEASURES TAKEN BY CHINA

Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans said in a statement on Wednesday that his latest move was a gesture of goodwill, and talks will continue.

"We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world," he said in a statement.

European Union trade chief Maros Sefcovic said the move would help stabilize supply chains.

Nexperia is a major supplier of basic computer chips to the car industry, and shortages have threatened automotive supply chains, leading to production slowdowns and halts.

BMW, Bosch and Aumovio all said they welcomed the development but that it is too early to judge what impact it will have, while Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen declined to comment.

Nexperia manufactures most of its wafers in Hamburg, Germany, and then sends them to Dongguan, China to be packaged and sent on to customers.

Germany's auto industry lobby VDA said disruptions as a result of the dispute were far from being resolved, adding further negative effects on production could not be ruled out.

STALEMATE CONTINUES TO THREATEN SUPPLIES

After the Dutch state intervention, Nexperia's Chinese arm declared itself no longer subject to control by European management and on Oct. 26, the European side of the company stopped shipping wafers to it, citing non-payment.

That stalemate continues to threaten supplies, although the Chinese side is now selling down stockpiles of chips it has previously processed, offering temporary relief to customers.

Nexperia said it welcomed the detente between China and the Netherlands but "full restoration of the supply chain requires active further cooperation of Nexperia's entities in China."
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There are two stories Judith Nangala Crispin tells about her solo journeys criss-crossing the central Australian deserts on a motorcycle with her mongrel dingo Moon on the back. One is a blog that aims to empower women. It covers just one of the 37 crossings she made, and its full of adventure and drama. Right from the start, her Suzuki DR650 bike had tyre trouble, and she was stranded for two days in the middle of nowhere. She battled through a desert heatwave, floods, hundreds of kilometres of potholes, corrugations and ruts. Worst of all, Moon was bitten by a snake, and she drove for seven hours through the lightning-streaked night to a vet in Katherine, convinced that Moon would die on the way. Luckily, he survived and they both got safely to the end of the journey at Canberra. The second story about her desert odyssey enters an entirely different visionary world of star maps, spider threads and UFOs in the sky, the spirits of dead animals ascending and a quest to find a caravan of dog-headed beings with bodies made of stars. These are some of the astonishing phenomena explored in Crispins illustrated verse novel, The Dingos Noctuary (a noctuary is a night diary). Zoe descends to comfort her daughters, in a burning country. Judith Nangala Crispin Crispins motorcycle odyssey came to a sad end during her 37th journey. She was driving through Broken Hill when I was run over by a mum shouting at her kids in a gigantic SUV. She was left with a traumatic brain injury and damage to 126 muscles down her spine. The book was only half finished, but I had this terrible sensitivity to light from the computer, it gave me blinding headaches. So she wrote the second half of The Dingos Noctuary on a 1966 Olympia Splendid 33 travel typewriter. It transported me back to when I was 15 and thought I was going to grow up to be Gertrude Stein. This is the third book from the acclaimed poet. Its a big handsome hardback that took more than seven years to complete, and its already won or been shortlisted for poetry, art and photography awards even before publication. The poetry alternates with prose, hand-drawn maps, plant pressings and 47 Lumachrome glass prints of dead animals and birds.

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The book is about what I found, Crispin says. As a person with mixed heritage and Aboriginal ancestry but without any cultural authority, acceptance or ties, what relationship could I have directly with country thats not just a platitude? It took 37 trips to feel I knew enough about country and people and myself to write anything meaningful. Crispin is a descendant of Bpangerang people from the Murray River, and she also acknowledges heritage from Scotland, Ireland, France, Mali, Senegal and the Ivory Coast. She spent more than 20 years searching for her grandmothers history, hoping it would make her feel she was a legitimate Aboriginal person. But it was a rough search. Id known we had Aboriginal ancestry since I was a child. We were all told this is something you never talk about, my grandmother and mother were very emphatic, she says. Terrible things would happen to the family if you said anything  There is very little on the white record for some people because the families try so hard to cover it up. I was feeling increasingly illegitimate, I didnt belong to white culture or Black culture, and I thought, do I keep going on? One of Crispins Lumachrome glass prints, Enid, connected to Earth by zodiacal light - spider-strings in the old language, the umbilicus of Country. Judith Nangala Crispin Along the way she met many despairing people on the same quest. I wanted this book to be for them. You can walk out on the land and form your own relationship. You dont have to walk through life feeling like half a person because you dont have your heritage papers in order. By the time she discovered her link to the Bpangerang people, she had already spent 15 years living with the Warlpiri people in the Northern Territory. She worked for PAW, the remote Indigenous media organisation, mentoring, working with an app for suicide prevention and with the painters: It was the painters who were trying to free me from dogma. The Warlpiri are her adopted people and she took their skin name Nangala as a sign of respect. One clear night, Lilian followed the Milky Way out toward Orion. All her life she had stared up at Betelgeuse, the giant red star, and felt it staring back: Crispins Lumachrome Glass Print and chemigram of roadkill Australian Masked Owl. Judith Nangala Crispin

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Beloved Warlpiri friends and mentors appear often in The Dingos Noctuary, and she has given them their own voices. One of them is Lily, one of the most miraculous people Ive ever met. She lived in a humpy until she was 98, and at over 100 she was taken to a nursing home with dementia. The first time Crispin visited her there, Lily had decided she was a new mum to an Aboriginal baby doll and a couple of toys. She was having trouble breastfeeding them, so Crispin got her a bottle. Lily told her many stories: one was about a mountain, and if you went past it, you would find dog-headed people with bodies made of stars. Crispin honoured her stories and made them a feature of her journey: I told Moon those stories when I was driving him to the vet, trying not to be a complete nervous wreck. She knew she wanted to talk about the land and people as they were, without romanticising, but I didnt want the book to have this weight of suffering and poverty and hopelessness. Its about the love that people out in the desert have for that place, and the love I had, which came through being able to see what they saw. The Warlpiri women taught her that a woman can stand up strong after birth, and at death too, grief-stricken but not shattered. So I thought Id try and honour the dead, starting small with animals and plants and work my way up. Crispin and Moon on their motorbike. Judith Nangala Crispin The first roadkill she collected for her portraits was a tiger snake. The process of decay gave out a light that exposed the image on the page. The images can be put in an art gallery and honoured the way we honour saints in a church, she says. I portrayed them as ascending back to their ancestors in the sky. I sat with more than 500 cadavers as they bloated up and broke down and then buried them. Theres a smell, but you can ignore it. And the rest feels kind of holy. Four years later, Crispin and Moon live on unceded Ngunnawal/Ngambri Country near Braidwood on the NSW Southern Tablelands.

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Rarely does the humble fungus make for pleasant news. True-crime aficionados have recently transformed themselves into amateur experts on the death cap mushroom, while fictional spores have infected us with horror via The Last of Us, Annihilation and various alien franchises. At the same time, its fungi we have to thank for penicillin and other vaccines. Mystics have long borrowed their abilities to alter consciousness, and their powers are routinely harnessed to produce everything from sourdough breads to blue cheeses. Merlin Sheldrake knows well the confused responses that fungi inspire. They can poison you, they can feed you, they can cure you, they can give you confusing insights or visions. Theres so many things they can do, so theyve often been associated with mysterious powers. Fungi, says Merlin Sheldrake, have often been associated with mysterious powers. Tomas Munita/The New York Times And yet, he admits: They do hang around dead things. Sheldrake is perhaps the worlds best-known mycologist, or fungus expert. His book Entangled Life is an international bestseller, equal parts biology and philosophy, science and cultural history. It digs down into the reasons mushrooms, lichen, moulds and yeasts have occupied such an ambivalent if not downright contradictory position in our collective psyche. Fungal networks can span vast territories, and Sheldrakes book explains how these systems not only speak across their expanse, in a very particular sense, but also allow other organisms to exchange information.

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Entangled Life emerged into the world in 2020. Its perhaps no coincidence that it tapped a vein of fascination worldwide just as humanity was finding itself so isolated. Fungi are all about connection and inventing new ways to relate, so something about those things going on at the same time made sense in a funny way. The books exploration of communication at the subterranean level was a welcome contrast to the sense of loneliness and misunderstanding that many felt above ground. The result was a newfound and very widespread interest in a realm of the sciences that even biologists had long avoided. Fungi, not known for their love of daylight, were having their moment in the sun. Sheldrakes specialty shouldnt be a footnote. A mycorrhiza is a relationship between a plant and a fungus, and the natural world wouldnt exist without them. I was studying plant biology, and they told us about mycorrhizal fungi, which most plants depend on to live, and which all plants have once depended on. The lineage of land plants depends on the mycorrhizal relationship back in time. But this relationship had never really been given that much attention. Most fungi live as networks, not individuals, and its much harder to study something that doesnt have distinct edges. It was only decided they were their own kingdom of life in the late 60s. Before that, they were sort of seen as lower plants. Youd study fungi as agents of disease or decay, problems that have to be solved, or youd study them as this unglamourous corner of the plant world. The source of Sheldrakes interest in fungi is as porous as the subject of his subject. Beginnings are always hard. My fathers a biologist and he brought me and my brother up to take an interest in the living world, to take an interest in the many lives unfolding around us. And so we had pets and plants and were outside a lot, and mushrooms were part of that exploration of the world.

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Nowadays, fungal networks are sometimes called the wood wide web. They allow plants to throw vital information across short and long spaces, warning of weather changes and other conditions via chemical and electrical signals. Sheldrake with oyster mushrooms growing from a copy of his book Entangled Life. To be clear, fungal networks arent actually like the internet for trees. But as a science communicator, Sheldrake knows that conveying complex ideas in an accessible fashion is both challenging and necessary. Metaphors can help us see and think and understand and feel, he says. We get into trouble when we start to mistake the metaphors for reality because if we do that then we can get locked in a story which doesnt actually correspond to whats going on in the world. TAKE 7: THE ANSWERS ACCORDING TO MERLIN SHELDRAKE Worst habit? Speaking too fast. Greatest fear? Balancing precariously at a great height. The line that stayed with you? To use the world well, to be able to stop wasting it and our time in it, we need to re-learn our being in it - Ursula Le Guin Biggest regret? Not learning more languages when I was younger. Favourite book? The Glass Bead Game by Herman Hesse. The artwork/song you wish was yours? I dont wish it was mine, but Id love to live inside Thomas Talliss Spem in Alium. If you could time travel, where would you choose to go? The Western British Isles in the Neolithic  there are so many mysteries about this time, and Id love to have direct experience of it. By the same token, those who argue that the natural world is necessarily characterised by competition and violence might want to examine their metaphors. The view of the living world as fundamentally competitive and fundamentally full of conflict has been overemphasised, Sheldrake says. Some kind of redressing of that balance is important, but I do think theres a balance.

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Related Article Good Weekend For this British biologist, there really is magic in those mushrooms If you look at one type of mycorrhizal fungus and one plant, sometimes the fungus is getting more than it gives and sometimes the reverse. On average over the course of their lives theyd probably both benefit. I prefer to think of togetherness as being collaboration, and collaboration as always being a kind of fluid blend of co-operation and competition and conflict. Just like the relationship between organisms revealed in Entangled Life, its rarely either/or. If I think about family dinners at home, when I was 11 and my brother was nine, there would be conflict, there would be teasing, there would be fighting, there would be very, very loving connection, but this all sort of flows into each other. And so the idea that relationships are one way or another is the problem. The main thing that I think is important is this idea of collaboration. Related Article Review From gothic crime to comedian Ben Elton: 10 new books That notion extends to our own relationships to the world around us. I think its a really important question that can help us to step out of some of these narratives of separation, where we have been taught to believe that we are somehow separate from the living world when its obvious that were not. Not only does that lead us to behave as a species in ways which are ecocidal and destructive, it can also confuse us and make us mad in some way, he says. Were convincing ourselves sometimes that were separate, but were obviously not. Sheldrakes emphasis on the invisible communication occurring between plants and fungus shouldnt be confused with a naive sense that the planet has our backs covered. I mean, its bad, right? Its really, really bad. Theres no getting around that fact. Its an unfolding disaster, and its been that way for quite a long time. Our planet has had a handful of extinction-level events, he says, in which 75 to 90 per cent of species were destroyed. Thats an astonishing amount of extinction. But life continued.

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Exclusive LifestyleHealth & wellnessMental health Teen boys are struggling with mental health. Heres what they want you to know Lauren Ironmonger November 19, 2025  8:18am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 43 View all comments

Generation Z cops a lot of flack, particularly the roughly 1.7 million young boys and men in Australia today. Theyre lazy and entitled, some say, and addicted to social media. Theyre sensitive snowflakes and, at the same time, becoming hardened by the manosphere and extreme online content. I dont really think politicians see teenage boys as they are, says 14-year-old Shannon Richards from Dubbo, whose favourite school subject is history. A young cadet, he hopes to join the Australian Defence Force as a paramedic one day. Even parents sometimes dont either ... people just misinterpret teenage boys, you know, they think oh, theyre just mucking around, he says. Shannon Richards, a 14-year-old student in Dubbo. Han Hodgkinson Grief has dominated the past year for Richards and his family, since the stillbirth of a little sister and the passing of both his great-grandfathers, with whom he was close.

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While dealing with devastating loss, he hasnt always felt comfortable asking for help or talking about his feelings. Editor's pick Good Weekend Whats bubbling underneath: Showing teen boys how to master emotion and empathy A new report, published on Wednesday by mental health charity The Man Cave and Flinders University, found half of young boys said mental health is the biggest problem theyre facing right now, while one in five said they lacked positive male role models in their lives. One-fifth also believed they should solve their problems without help. Today, The Man Cave, alongside Labor MP Dan Repacholi and Independent senator David Pocock, are presenting this research in Canberra and launching the Parliamentary Friends of Healthy Masculinities group.

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They want federal and state governments to fund programs like theirs in every classroom, from years six to 12, in Australia, to combat the growing mens mental health crisis. Around one in seven children and adolescents had a mental illness in the past year, according to a 2025 report by the Australian Institute of Health and Wellness. Poor mental health is also more prevalent today compared to previous generations, particularly among young adults aged 16 to 24. Suicide is the leading cause of death among Australians aged 15 to 24 years, and men are more likely to die by suicide than women. Isaac Wicklein, a 17-year-old student from Blackburn, Melbourne, has dealt with bullying at past schools. While he now has a great friendship group, this past year has been one of his roughest yet, in large part due to medical issues that have meant time off from school and social isolation. Seventeen-year-old Isaac Wicklein says negative social media content, bullying and poor physical health leading to time off school are the biggest factors that have affected his mental wellbeing. Simon Schluter

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The aspiring meteorologist, who loves music, sport and science, says: When I first started struggling with mental health and bullying at my school when I was a lot younger, I used to think it was better to just suck it up and it would be stigmatised if I actually did say something because Id be called a wuss or whatnot. Over time, hes learned that vulnerability can be a strength. Ive gained more friendships and opened deeper friendships because Ive just been completely genuine and vulnerable. Its definitely been an advantage. He thinks schools need to do more to support young students. I think that mental health at school is just not talked about enough, he says.

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Teenagers spend so much time at school, I think thats where they should actually get that information from about who to talk to and so forth. Talking with, not at, teens Weve got a culture where showing emotion is risky as a teenage boy, says Daniel Datnow-Jamieson, head of impact at The Man Cave. Editor's pick Men's health Id lost myself: As men struggle with mental health, Steven knows how hard it is to ask for help That creates a lot of challenges for being able to have courageous conversations and to be able to seek support and help from their peers, from other people around them in their lives. And that means that there are a lot of teenage boys who are going it alone.

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Since 2014, the Melbourne-based charity has worked with more than 100,000 young boys and men through its programs. The biggest lesson theyve learned, says Datnow-Jamieson, is meeting young people where they are. Its shifting the way we think about this, from being something about getting through to boys, which Ive heard quite a bit about, to being more about, how can we have a conversation with boys and not about them? he says. In workshops, often held in schools, this looks like creating safe, respectful spaces free from judgment while still making room for play. Boys are still boys after all, and games and banter are really, really helpful for making the whole experience enjoyable, says Datnow-Jamieson. And its working. Survey responses found 57 per cent of boys who believed they must act strong reversed their opinion after one workshop with The Man Cave, for example.

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Mens mental health charity The Man Cave wants the government to fund programs like theirs in every school across Australia. Role models Role models matter, and in the absence of positive leaders, alienated teenage boys and men can turn to influencers like Andrew Tate who promote extreme and potentially harmful messages of masculinity. Wicklein says hes aware of such figures, and has seen peers fall prey to their influence, but has never been convinced to fall into that hole where theres a lot of hypermasculinity. The idea that men should be the leader of the house and stronger than women  there are some very extreme thoughts.

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He says he looks up to his parents, and online, he likes Jak Piggott, a young Australian influencer who talks about mental health. Richards cites his dad as a role model in his life, as well as MP Bob Katter. I dont like his ideas, but I like the way he holds himself. He says what he thinks, he says. Dr Mel Opozda, a health psychologist and research fellow in mens mental health at Flinders University who co-authored the report, connects this lack of positive role models to shifting gender roles. Young women maybe do know their place a bit better [today], or theyre becoming less reliant on men. For young fellows, this can lead to confusion, which is often where some social media influencers can jump in to say, well, this is the place that can be for you.

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Positive role models come down to having range, says Datnow-Jamieson. Stoicism and discipline are strengths and as are empathy, authenticity, and help seeking. Its not about removing traits, its actually about adding more tools to the tool belt so that were better equipped to navigate an increasingly complex world. The messages these role models promote also matter for wellbeing. Last week, Jesuit Social Services published the first Australian study to examine the connection between rigid gender norms and life outcomes among adolescent boys. It found those who are not governed by very limiting ideas about what it means to be masculine are more likely to thrive. While fathers can play an important role in their sons lives, they are not the be-all and end-all, says Opozda.

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Lots of different people can act as role models, she says. Daniel Datnow-Jamieson, head of impact at The Man Cave. Social media Teenagers and social media is a hot topic right now, with the federal governments ban for under 16s set to come into effect from December 10. While Richards, 14, thinks the ban will encourage in-person connection, he also points to the double standard in government policies for young people, like the Victorian governments youth justice reforms to try children as adults.

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If someone under 16 cannot vote, cannot drink, cannot drive, and under this new proposal, cannot use social media, they shouldnt be put in jail, he says. Living in a regional area, where social media can be a lifeline, he also worries the ban might increase isolation. At 17, Wicklein wont be directly affected by the ban, but has seen the impact of more extreme online content at his co-ed school. There is always a bit of argy-bargy between the boys and the girls, and theres a bit of animosity towards each other, mainly because of the differences that people have between women and men. I think that has actually been heightened by more toxic masculinity influencers being on social media. Opozda and Datnow-Jamieson say young people are savvy consumers of social media.

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Opozda sees both sides of the ban argument, but is concerned what it might mean for connecting young people with peers and diverse role models. Editor's pick Men's health Raising teen boys who thrive could rely on dodging these harsh alpha rules I also worry, especially about young people who dont have access to people who are like them  Im thinking of people with chronic health conditions or a mental health condition, or LGBTQIA young fellas who live in the country [for example]. Theyre not dumb. Theyre not passive consumers, says Opozda, explaining young men can distinguish between whats real and what is extreme online content. More teenage boys agreed than disagreed that social media is harmful for people their age, says Datnow-Jamieson of The Man Caves research.

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Most of them were neutral, but teenage boys are asking us to hold social media companies to account to actually make their algorithms less harmful. And because social media is supplementing a loss of in-person connection and community, weve got to make sure we invest in efforts to strengthen face-to-face connection and community to mitigate the harms of removing social media. How to support young boys and men For parents, guardians and adults with young boys in their lives, here are some tips for approaching conversations with openness and empathy: Take a non-judgemental approach: If were coming in with a view or a preset message, were not really having a conversation with them ... Were talking about them. So be curious and seek to understand before being understood, says Datnow-Jamieson.

Context matters too: It might be having a conversation shoulder to shoulder rather than face to face. It might be going on a walk, after sport training or doing something you both enjoy. It doesnt necessarily have to be a really intense conversation, says Datnow-Jamieson.

Consistency is key: It can be hard to get young people to talk, says Opozda. But if you are a constant positive presence in their life  show them that you love them and be that person that they can come to without judgement or fear  that can be really strong. Lifeline 13 11 14 Make the most of your health, relationships, fitness and nutrition with our Live Well newsletter. Get it in your inbox every Monday.
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NationalObituaries A great humanist: One of Australias greatest poets dead at 80 Geoffrey Lehmann November 18, 2025  2:03pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

ROBERT GRAY: 1945-2025 Robert Gray, one of Australias greatest poets, has died. He was regarded as an outstanding landscape poet and, alongside Les Murray, one of the most significant Australian poets. Gray was an imagist without a rival in the English-speaking world, said fellow poet Kevin Hart. Robert Gray in his Rose Bay home in 2017. Quentin Jones

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I cant disagree. Take this short from 16 Short Poems: The sky, thick with stars, is the floor of a saucepan thats about to boil. In another of his shorts, theres auditory, as well as visual, acuity: 4 am; the Milky Way blowing high above the forest. A truck changes down. A steep descent. The visceral racket of gears across the landscape. This is more than a still life. It is arrested motion and an unknown man is driving the truck in pre-dawn hours.

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Yes, a truck driver! Gray put people in his poems, and was more than an Imagist. He was a great humanist who loved his friends, and shared his friends with his friends, and was loved by them all. Gray, aged 80, died of complications from Parkinsons disease on November 17. Dee Jones, his partner of more than 50 years, slept beside him in a small bed during his final days in palliative care, and was with him five hours every day for his last 11 months, feeding him by hand at Uniting Illowra in Waverley, where he found secure accommodation with help from a friend  writer Peter Goldsworthy  and from MP for Vaucluse Kellie Sloane. Tom Carment, the painter, was frequently at his bedside. During these harrowing months, he had limited speech but his mind was alert and lucid. Related Article Literature Inside the genre that is eating contemporary fiction alive

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In his last weeks, morphine controlling his pain, Dee read to Robert from Chekhov, his favourite author, who is quoted several times in Grays poem The School of Venice  one of the great humanist poems in our language. Typically for Gray, the main subject of this poem is people  in particular the marriage in Venice of a close friend, the English poet and translator Michael Hulse. This poem is an acute disquisition on humanism, interspersed with striking descriptions of the seething powdery, sifted light of a great city sinking into its canals. The School of Venice may be Grays greatest poem. Others great works include In Departing Light, the astonishing and loving poem about the dementia of his mother, a Jehovahs Witness, or Dyptich, the poem about his father, a classicist with wary small eyes and thin lips who could never forget he was a gentleman. In this poem, his father, drunk after the pubs had closed, drives his car down a hillside of banana palms  the car reared high on a great raft of mutilated, sap-oozing fibre; from which he climbed down ... soberly polite. Grays greatness as a poet has been prolific. Twenty-four poets, literary critics and friends each wrote essays about 24 of his poems in the tribute volume Bright Crockery Days, published by Mark Tredinnick in 2024. While prolific, Gray did not overwhelm with an unreadable bulk of poetry and was scrupulous in maintaining the tightness and vividness of his language. If his writing had a flaw, it was that he was sometimes too scrupulous, whittling away at poems and revising some of them too often.

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Robert was my close friend for 56 years. I met him in 1969 after a fractious meeting of the Poetry Society. I walked out of the meeting hall into the night, and a young man was standing on the darkened pavement in George Street, close to Circular Quay. He seemed anxious to speak to me. He introduced himself as Robert Gray and told me he wrote poetry. We agreed to meet later that week. For our first couple of meetings he called me Mr Lehmann. I was only five years older and, embarrassed, soon persuaded him to call me Geoff. We met often  sometimes for lunch in an Italian restaurant in the city. Afterwards, as we walked out in the street, I noticed young women would quickly glance at us. This was an entirely novel experience. They were looking at Robert, his shy film-star looks  not me. I enjoyed their surreptitious glances. I suspect he was not even aware of them. Gray was said to be one of the contemporary masters of poetry in English. Marco Del Grande Gray was born in Port Macquarie in 1945 and grew up near Coffs Harbour. An early influence was Ted Hillyer, who lived in Bellingen, a great, unrecognised Australian realist painter of landscapes, and later his dear friend. Grays early experiences are recorded in his luminous memoir The Land I Came Through Last (2008); his years growing up on the NSW North Coast; of later working in Sydney as a journalist, copywriter, mail sorter and bookshop assistant; and finally his friendships with writers, among them Patrick White, Murray and Kenneth Slessor.

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He recalled when he was 12, a teacher read to the class a passage from The Wind in the Willows, describing how the butter on Moles hot toast dripped like honey from the honeycomb. With that image, he writes, I was aware that I had just seen something in imagination more intensely, more sensuously, than I ever had in life. I was always very conscious of being sensuously overwhelmed by the world and the vividness of it was very exhilarating to me. Sort of a Wordsworthian response. That was my main recourse when I was young  the exhilaration of looking. His first book of poems, Creekwater Journal, was published in 1973. Gray published 13 books of poetry, and he and I went on to co-edit three anthologies of Australian poetry. Gray, pictured in 2002, published 13 books of poetry. Grays work has been awarded all the most important Australian literary prizes, including the NSW Premiers Poetry Award, the Victorian Premiers Award for Poetry, the Patrick White Award, the Adelaide Festival of the Arts Award, the Grace Leven Poetry Prize, the Age Poetry Book of the Year Award and the CJ Dennis Prize for Poetry.

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Gray was not an unworldly poet but a discriminating observer, and he had no interest in money, working much of his adult life in bookshops. Although a religious sceptic, his interest in Zen Buddhism prompted a move to Tokyo for six months with Dee and his step-daughter, Harriet Jones. Related Article Literature How Ubud avoids the warfare of Australian literary festivals Robert fondly remembered Harriet jumping on the floor of the apartment where they lived at the exact moment when the building was convulsed by an earthquake. He kept a photograph of Harriet on his desk, and a photograph of Walt Whitman on the wall of the room where he died. Les Murray was moved to write that Gray has an eye, and the verbal felicity which must accompany such an eye. He can use an epithet and image to perfection and catch a whole world of sensory understanding in a word or a phrase. He later noted Gray is one of the contemporary masters of poetry in English. He is survived by Dee and Harriet, his siblings, Billy and Alicia, and his many friends including his agent, Margaret Connolly, editor John Carrick and poets Jamie Grant, Stephen McInerney, Judy Beveridge, Todd Turner, Luke Fischer, Jemal Sharah, Petra White and many others to whom he gave unstinting support. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalWAInquest Perth bikie boss died from cocaine toxicity while in custody, inquest hears Heather McNeill November 19, 2025  11:52am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

The then-boss of the Rebels outlaw motorcycle club, Jamie Ginn, died from cocaine toxicity while being held at the Perth Watch House, a coronial inquest has heard. The mandatory inquest into the 50-year-olds sudden death in custody on October 10, 2023 commenced on Wednesday. Perth bikie boss death is being probed at three-day inquest. Nine News Perth/Supplied During her opening address, counsel assisting the coroner, Sue Markham, said Ginn, at the time of his death, was the serving president of the Rebels and a bricklayer by trade. He was a physically fit person who attended the gym regularly. He was also known to use cocaine and steroids, she said.

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In the months before his death, those who spent time with Mr Ginn noticed that his health had declined. He was reportedly stressed about club business and had increased his cocaine use. He had nose bleeds and swelling in his legs and feet. He also suffered from sleep apnoea but rarely used his CPAP machine. The day before Ginns death he used cocaine while at the Rendezvous Hotel in Scarborough. The following day he attended an industrial unit in Gnangara to meet with Gang Crime Squad officers. Officers described Ginn as pleasant to deal with and maybe a bit tired, as he accompanied them on a search of the hotel room and unit, which revealed a shotgun wrapped in a towel in nearby bush. Ginn was arrested and taken into custody for breaching a firearm prohibition order and told police he hadnt been feeling good since going on a trip to Malta in July.

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He was denied police bail which meant he would have to spend at least one night in custody before applying for bail before a magistrate the following morning. When he arrived at the Perth Watch House he told the registered nurse on duty about blood clots in his feet, and that he was on blood thinners. The nurse conducted a very brief health assessment and concluded he was fit for custody, describing him as calm and courteous. That night, there was no registered nurse on duty due to someone calling in sick, but Ginns cell was able to be monitored through full-length windows and cameras. During a regular cell check at 6.53pm, Ginn was seen having a seizure on the cell floor. Officers carried out first aid, and commenced CPR at 7.07pm when it was noted Ginn stopped breathing. Paramedics arrived at 7.13pm and Ginn was declared dead at 8.05pm.

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A forensic pathologist later determined his cause of death to be cocaine toxicity, with high levels of cocaine found in his blood and stomach, as well as traces of steroids. Related Article Bikie gangs No nurse on duty the night Rebels boss died in cell: police A toxicologist concluded Ginn likely ingested around a teaspoon of cocaine, enclosed in packaging prior to his arrest, and that the packaging breached shortly before his death, however there is no evidence of any packaging in Ginns stomach. CCTV from Ginns cell did not show him taking drugs while in custody, only eating a meat pie around 6.22pm, and having some water during his brief, two-hour stay. His seizure went for around 15 minutes unnoticed.

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Ginn had only recently been appointed the boss of the Rebels bikie gang at the time of his death. In the days afterwards, WA Police Commissioner Col Blanch confirmed Ginn had been arrested as part of a targeted police strategy to suppress bikie activity following a brazen daylight drive-by shooting in Baldivis. Blanch said that he had watched the CCTV footage from Ginns cell and believed he had suffered a medical episode. Ive watched the CCTV ... based on what Ive seen, and the early indication, its highly likely to be a medical episode only ... I dont think theres any real blame to be put on anyone, he said. Whilst we know he was a member of an outlaw motorcycle group, I still think its very important that we are sensitive to whats occurred because he does have family and friends and they are grieving.

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The inquest is set down to run for three days and will consider the care Ginn received while in custody, and whether nursing coverage and monitoring was adequate. Witnesses will include police officers, Perth Watch House staff and a forensic pathologist and toxicologist. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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NationalWALocal council Perths new Lord Mayor orders workplace culture investigation in shock opening move Carla Hildebrandt November 19, 2025  11:53am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 1 View all comments

Perths newly elected Lord Mayor has come out swinging, ordering an independent workplace culture review at his very first ordinary council meeting. Just a month after being sworn in, Bruce Reynolds used Tuesday nights meeting to move an unexpected urgent business motion, creating a new workplace culture committee and appointing external lawyers to lead the review. Councillors Raj Doshi, Liam Gobbert, Adam Pacan, Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds, Catherine Lezer, Viktor Ko, Lisa Ma and Chris Patton. City of Perth During question time, acting chief executive Peta Mabbs revealed the city had received 10 behavioural complaints so far this calendar year. She said the city had paid $19,699.91 in invoices related to behavioural complaints in the same period, noting lawyers were engaged as required.

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Under the motion, law firm Mills Oakley will conduct an independent assessment of the citys culture, with a stated focus on creating a safe and inclusive environment. Related Article Exclusive

Local government We can only go up from here: Lord Mayor Bruce Reynolds on rebuilding Perth The firm will interview employees who have left in the past two years and a sample of current staff, on a voluntary and confidential basis, the motion says. The newly formed committee will include Reynolds, deputy mayor David Goncalves, and councillors Liam Gobbert, Chris Patton and Catherine Lezer. The committee will work alongside the legal team and report back to council with findings and recommendations.

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The motion passed 63, with councillors Lezer, Raj Doshi and Adam Pacan voting against. Reynolds told this masthead the review aligned with his commitment to make Perth the safest capital city in Australia. This initiative is part of that commitment, ensuring our staff, our community and our organisation continue to thrive in a safe, respectful and high-performing environment, he said. This review is designed to validate the strong work the city already does in this space, and where opportunities for improvement exist, we will embrace them. Chief executive Michelle Reynolds has been contacted for comment.

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This latest review follows past scrutiny of the citys culture and governance, including a damning report by lawyer Tony Power in 2020, following a two-year investigation. The report found the council and administration during the term of then-Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi, was poorly led, divided and dysfunctional, with widespread culture and governance failures. Start the day with a summary of the days most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights. Sign up for our Morning Edition newsletter.
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Updated TechnologyNetwork outage Cloudflare chaos: Third internet outage in four weeks triggers global disruptions David Swan Updated November 19, 2025  7:24am ,first published November 19, 2025  5:35am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

If you couldnt load ChatGPT, scroll through X or even check Downdetector to see why everything was broken on the internet, you werent alone. A massive outage at internet infrastructure giant Cloudflare that started on Tuesday triggered a wave of 500 Internal Server Errors across the globe, knocking substantial portions of the web offline and once again exposing the fragility of the modern internet. Cloudflare is a content delivery network that takes content from 20 per cent of the worlds websites and mirrors them on thousands of servers worldwide. iStock Early on Wednesday morning (AEDT) Cloudflare said its engineers no longer saw some of the issues plaguing its customers, but that they were continuing to monitor for any further problems. Platforms that experienced outages included the social media site X, Shopify, Dropbox, Coinbase, and the Moodys credit ratings service. Moodys website displayed an Error Code 500 and instructed individuals to visit Cloudflares website for more information.

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The outage was believed to be behind the tech issues that hit Australian airports on Tuesday night, leading to flight delays, but Air Services Australia said the issue was caused by equipment failure. Related Article Analysis

Cloud Why one companys glitch just broke half the internet In France, national railway company SNCFs website has been affected. The company warned customers that some information and schedules may not be available or up to date. Our teams are working to restore these services as quickly as possible. Cloudflare, based in San Francisco, works behind the scenes to make the internet faster and safer, but when problems flare up it results in massive digital gridlock for internet users, cybersecurity expert Mike Chapple said. While most people think theres a direct line between their digital device and a website, Chapple said companies like Cloudflare sit in the middle of those connections.

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This latest incident  which follows a similar major Cloudflare outage in June which lasted for two hours and 30 minutes  serves as another stark reminder of the internets heavy reliance on a handful of centralised providers. When a single point of failure like Cloudflare stumbles, the impact is immediate and widespread. Bob Wambach, vice president of portfolio and strategy at Dynatrace, noted that these events reveal just how precarious our digital dependency has become. The outage is believed to be behind the tech issues that hit Australian airports on Tuesday night. AP The moment a vital service goes down, users find themselves unable to access sites and applications they rely on, demonstrating how quickly disruption spreads when a core layer of internet protection is affected, Wambach said. He emphasised that the complexity of modern IT environments often hides these risks until its too late.

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Global incidents like this are a clear reminder of how dependent our world has become on software and digital systems operating as expected... As our reliance on technology grows and AI continues to reshape how we operate, maintaining that visibility across complex digital ecosystems will be essential. Cloudflare is a content delivery network that takes content from 20 per cent of the worlds websites and mirrors them on thousands of servers worldwide, said Chapple, an information technology professor at the University of Notre Dames Mendoza College of Business. When a single point of failure like Cloudflare stumbles, the impact is immediate and widespread. When you access a website protected by Cloudflare, your computer doesnt connect directly to that site, Chapple said. Instead, it connects to the nearest Cloudflare server, which might be very close to your home. That protects the website from a flood of traffic, and it provides you with a faster response. Its a win-win for everyone, until it fails, and 20 per cent of the internet goes down at the same time. Last month Microsoft had to deploy a fix to address an outage of their Azure cloud portal that left users unable to access Office 365, Minecraft and other services. The tech company wrote on its Azure status page that a configuration change to its Azure infrastructure caused the outage.

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And Amazon experienced a massive outage of its cloud computing service in October. The company resolved the issue, but the outage took down a broad range of online services, including social media, gaming, food delivery, streaming and financial platforms. Related Article Updated

Telecommunications TPG says person dead after failed Triple Zero call Jake Moore, ESET global cybersecurity advisor, argues that the root of the problem lies in the industrys reliance on ageing protocols that underpin the web. The outages we have witnessed this last few months have once again highlighted the reliance on these fragile networks, Moore said. Companies are often forced to heavily rely on the likes of Cloudflare, Microsoft, and Amazon for hosting their websites and services as there arent many other options. Moore pointed specifically to the Domain Name System (DNS) as a critical choke point. The technology is based on an outdated, legacy network that redirects words in a web address into computer-friendly numbers. When this system fails, it catastrophically collapses and causes these outages.

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While replacing these legacy systems is nearly impossible in the short term, experts argue that resilience must become a priority. Moore notes that despite the risks, major providers like Cloudflare still offer the best defence against other threats. It may sound risky, but the major cloud providers actually have lots of impressive fail-safes in place and usually provide more protection than the lesser well-known cloud providers. With AP Get news and reviews on technology, gadgets and gaming in our Technology newsletter every Friday. Sign up here.

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WorldEuropeCCP influence The two women at centre of Britains latest Chinese spy fears David Crowe November 19, 2025  8:32am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Key points The British MI5 spy agency issued an alert to members of parliament about Chinese agents exploiting them to extract government secrets.

The alert identifies two recruitment agents as fronts, and says they are working for the Chinese intelligence service.

The warning says Chinese activity is widespread, and aims to extract classified information from politicians, parliamentary staff and consultants.

London: Britains MI5 spy agency has warned politicians about Chinese agents seeking to exploit them to extract government secrets, heightening security concerns amid broader friction with Beijing. The alert named two recruitment agents as fronts for the Chinese Ministry of State Security (MSS) and told MPs to be on guard against approaches that would lay the groundwork for gaining classified information for a foreign power. Photos taken from the LinkedIn profiles of Amanda Qiu, the chief executive of BR-YR Executive Search (left), and Shirly Shen, co-founder of the Internship Union. LinkedIn MI5 has issued this Alert because the activity is targeted and widespread, the Speaker of the House of Commons, Lindsay Hoyle, told MPs in a letter to pass on the new warning. The alert comes as Prime Minister Keir Starmer tries to balance economic ties and security tensions in Britains relationship with China, while facing weeks of accusations that he was doing too little to counter Chinese espionage.

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The letter to MPs identifies Amanda Qiu, of BR-YR Executive Search, and Shirly Shen, of the Internship Union, as two individuals working for the Chinese security service to build relationships with politicians and extract information. Both are known to be using LinkedIn profiles to conduct outreach at scale on behalf of MSS, the Speaker said. Balancing act: Starmer meets Chinese President Xi Jinping a year ago at the Brazil G20. Getty Images The Alert also highlights that other similar profiles are acting as fronts for espionage. It is of the utmost importance that we all understand how this activity happens and how to protect ourselves against it. We all have a responsibility to keep Parliament safe.

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House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle addressed the threat directly in a letter to MPs. House of Commons This masthead approached Qiu and Shen for comment but did not receive a reply before publication. Neither of the individuals appeared to have significant profiles outside LinkedIn, the social media site often used for business and recruitment. The Speakers letter to MPs was reported by Londons Telegraph and has not been issued publicly, although a parliamentary spokesperson confirmed the communication was issued to MPs. We provide advice to members and staff to make them aware of potential risks, however we cannot comment on our security processes, measures or advice, the spokesperson said.

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In its written advice, MI5 said the Chinese spies targeted politicians and sought to cultivate parliamentary staff, economists, think tank employees, consultants and others with access to government. The MSS used legitimate and fake recruitment companies, it said, and might commission a target to write a report in return for payment. Related Article Updated

Cybersecurity ASIO boss sounds alarm on devastating, disruptive Chinese hacking threat The MSS offer large financial incentives for seemingly low-level information in an attempt to build a relationship and encourage the target to gain access to more non-public sensitive information, it said in the circular, also published by the Telegraph. Australian politicians have also been warned that spies are targeting MPs and staff, with ASIO boss Mike Burgess revealing last year that a former politician had sold out the country by aiding a foreign security service.

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The Chinese embassy in London told the British media the claims of espionage were pure fabrication and would undermine relations, but the government reinforced the warnings after the MI5 document leaked to the media. Security Minister Dan Jarvis announced a 170 million ($343 million) plan to protect government businesses from cyberintrusions, and named China as a source of concern and confirmed the MI5 alert. Let me speak plainly: this activity involves a covert and calculated attempt by a foreign power to interfere with our sovereign affairs in favour of its own interests, and this government will not tolerate it. Dan Jarvis, minister of state for security Our intelligence agencies have warned that China is attempting to recruit and cultivate individuals with access to sensitive information about Parliament and the UK government, he told the House of Commons. I urge all parliamentarians and their staff to be wary that China has a low threshold for what information is considered to be of value, and will gather individual pieces of information to build a wider picture.

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Let me speak plainly: this activity involves a covert and calculated attempt by a foreign power to interfere with our sovereign affairs in favour of its own interests, and this government will not tolerate it. Related Article Putin's Russia Saboteurs for hire: Europes local idiot criminals doing Moscows dirty work Attacks by Russian agencies have made headlines in Britain, including arson at a warehouse with aid bound for Ukraine, but anxieties about China have deepened after an attempt to prosecute two British men accused of collecting secrets for Beijing. Prosecutors weighed up whether to launch court proceedings against the two men, Christopher Cash and Christopher Berry, but dropped the charges in September due to doubts about the strength of the case. One key problem in the case was that the two men were accused of passing on information that was useful to an enemy, but public officials were not willing to name China as a national security threat.

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Cash was a researcher involved with the China Research Group set up by British MPs. He and Berry rejected the accusations against them and welcomed the decision to drop the charges. Starmer met Chinese President Xi Jinping at the G20 summit in Rio de Janeiro last year, in the first leader-level meeting between the two countries in six years, and said at the time he wanted a relationship that would avoid surprises whenever possible. In one example of the friction between the two countries, Starmer and his ministers are moving slowly on Chinese plans for a huge new embassy near the Tower of London. Security experts have warned that the building in Royal Mint Court could be used for espionage, given its key location near government offices. It would be one of the biggest embassies in Europe, occupying about 20,000 square metres. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
The Netherlands announced on Wednesday that it is suspending state control of Chinese chipmaker Nexperia after constructive talks with Chinese authorities.

The decision marks a de-escalation after several weeks of dispute between the Hague and Beijing over the export of chips that play an essential role in the European automotive sector.

In light of recent developments, I consider it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act regarding Nexperia, Dutch Economy minister Vincent Karremans wrote on X.

The dispute began on 30 September when the Dutch government invoked the Goods Availability Act to take control of Nexperia over fears of technology transfers from the company's Dutch plant to facilities in China.

Beijing retaliated by restricting exports of the Nexperia's finished chips from China, triggering shortages in the global automotive industry.

The government said on Wednesday that the resumption of exports now appeared to be assured.

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In the past few days we have had constructive meetings with the Chinese authorities, Karremans said, adding: We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world.

In a letter sent to the Dutch Parliament on Wednesday, Karremans wrote that "Chinese authorities currently appear to be granting permission to companies from European and other countries to export Nexperia chips."

However, he also added a note of caution.

"A duty to provide information remains in effect: the company must inform me about the transfer of production resources and knowledge between its facilities."

Supply crisis eases off

The impasse seemed to ease at the end of October following a meeting between the Chinese and the US in South Korea at which both sides agreed to a truce in their bilateral trade dispute.

After a meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping on October 30, China said it would start accepting applications for exports of Nexperia chips from Chinese facilities to ease what was becoming a global shortage.

However, Karremans told the media last week that he had no regrets about his assertive approach to the chipmaker.

EU trade Commissioner Maros Sefcovic welcomed the Dutch decision on X saying it was "another key step in stabilising our strategic chip supply chains."

Last Friday, Sefcovic told Euronews the dispute was a warning that the EU needs to diversify its supply of strategic products since they can now be weaponised by third countries.
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Exclusive WorldEuropeBlood Oil Indian refinery pulls Russian oil from Australian petrol amid backlash David Crowe November 19, 2025  8:50am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 108 View all comments

Blood oil: A new series by the Herald and The Age. See all stories .

London: The owner of the worlds biggest oil refinery is vowing to stop using Russian cargoes to produce petrol and diesel for the Australian market after a global backlash at the trade, as tougher US sanctions start to curb the revenue that flows to Moscow. Reliance Industries, the largest Indian supplier of fuel to Australia, said it would end the use of Russian oil at its export refinery from December 1, although it made no similar promise for a neighbouring facility that supplies Indias domestic market. The Jamnagar refinery in India is the worlds biggest. Illustration: Marija Ercegovac The pledge marks a major shift in approach after fierce criticism of the Indian company for using cheaper Russian oil to boost its profits at a time when the sales also help Russian President Vladimir Putin fund his war on Ukraine. While analysts welcomed the promise, they said there was no way to verify how the vast Reliance refinery in Jamnagar would phase out the Russian cargoes unless Australian fuel importers conducted their own due diligence to ensure they were not selling tainted oil.

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All the major fuel retailers in Australia said they complied with the trade sanctions imposed on Russian oil and did not buy from Russia, but Ukrainian Australians have called on them to go further because of the way Russian oil is processed in third countries and on-sold to Australia. The Centre for Research on Energy and Clean Air, a non-profit group based in Europe, estimates that between February 2023 and June 2025 Australians bought $3.8 billion worth of petrol and diesel produced from Russian crude and refined in India. The group estimated this generated about $2 billion in tax revenue for Moscow. Reliance Industries said it was already scaling back the use of Russian supplies at its export refinery in Jamnagar, which is located in a Special Economic Zone and separated from a domestic refinery located nearby to supply the Indian market.

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Russian crude oil imports, which have already been on a downward trend, will within this month, cease altogether to be imported by the RIL refinery located in the SEZ, a Reliance spokesman told this masthead. And from 1st December onwards product exports from [the] SEZ refinery will be from non-Russian crude oil. Oil silos on the Russkoye heavy crude oil field, operated by Rosneft PJSC, in the Yamalo-Nenets region of East Siberia. Bloomberg via Getty Images All our product exports to Australia are from the refinery in SEZ and will have been derived from non-Russian crude oil from that date. CREA analyst Vaibhav Raghunandan estimated that Indian supplies comprised about 10 per cent of the petrol and diesel sold in Australia. The Jamnagar refinery, he said, accounted for 90 per cent of those Indian supplies. Most of the rest comes from a refinery in Mangalore.

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Raghunandan welcomed the statement from Reliance but said it seemed to apply to the export refinery in the SEZ and it would be difficult to check how supplies were kept separate from the domestic refinery in the same complex. The company has maintained that theyre able to segregate the crude and process it differently for different markets, he said. I think that if that is true, the onus lies on importers and buyers in Australia and elsewhere to do their due diligence so they are able to say they are satisfied with Jamnagars processes. The move comes days ahead of a deadline set by US President Donald Trump to commence tough sanctions on Rosneft and Lukoil, dramatically increasing the risks for traders who buy from those companies.

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Reliance, chaired by billionaire Mukesh Ambani, struck a 10-year contract with Rosneft last December to buy about half the Russian companys seaborne oil exports, in a deal estimated to account for about 0.5 per cent of global supply. While many refineries in western nations stopped using Russian oil, Reliance continued doing so and generated profits from the lower price charged for cargoes that were blocked elsewhere. US President Donald Trump imposed sanctions on Russian oil companies last month. Bloomberg Trump announced the sanctions on October 22 after the collapse of an attempted summit with Putin to broker a ceasefire in Ukraine, signalling his impatience with the Russian leader. Treasury set November 21 as the start date for the sanctions and warned that those doing business with the sanctioned companies would be exposed to further action.

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Violations of US sanctions may result in the imposition of civil or criminal penalties on US and foreign persons, it said. This raised a potential risk for any business executive transiting through the US. While the Trump administration has given Lukoil a waiver until December 13 due to the complexities of some of its operations  including a refinery in Bulgaria  there is no similar postponement for Rosneft. Russian President Vladimir Putin meets Indian Foreign Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar at the Kremlin on Tuesday. AP The US Treasury said on Monday the sanctions were already driving down the price of Russian oil and therefore the revenue for the Kremlin. Foreign Minister Penny Wong has called on Australian companies to ensure they were not buying from suppliers who bought from Russia, saying the industry had a responsibility not to fund the illegal and immoral invasion of Ukraine.

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The European Union sharpened its approach last month by imposing rules on October 16 to halt the import of refined fuels produced from Russian crude, a move aimed at refineries such as those in India. Australia is yet to match that move, but the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said last week it was evaluating options to place further pressure on Russias oil revenues. A Lukoil petrol station in Belgrade, Serbia. Bloomberg While the changes at Jamnagar could reduce the volume of Russian oil being used for petrol and diesel sold in Australia, the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations has called for action across the industry to stop blood oil coming from all sources. Our fuel importers are aware of their supply chains, they know what they are buying, they are just putting profits above ethics, organisation chairwoman Kateryna Argyrou said.

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It is their responsibility to act ethically and to understand that their current purchasing decisions are undermining the Australian governments support for Ukraine. If they wont act, the government must intervene. Further, the Albanese government can apply bans at the refinery level, rather than targeting countries as a whole. Viva, the owner of Australias Shell petrol stations, says its imports of Indian oil have fallen to zero. Eamon Gallagher Australian suppliers Ampol, BP and Mobil declined to specify whether they used imports from India for any of the fuel they sold to motorists, but Viva Energy said it only relied on India for 1 per cent of its imports over the past year and this had fallen to zero. Caltex said it did not use any Indian supplies. We conduct appropriate checks on trading counterparties and documents that are used to evidence the origin of products, BP said when this masthead asked if its imports came from India.

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Ampol said it was focused on the safe and reliable supply of fuel. Ampol remains deeply concerned about the ongoing situation in Ukraine and the profound impact it is having on Ukraines people, it said. Mobil Oil Australia said it complied with all sanctions imposed by the Australian government. Caltex, however, was specific about ruling out the use of Indian supplies, saying: Our Australian Caltex business does not import products from any Indian refineries.

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WorldEuropeRussia-Ukraine war Blow for Zelensky after US pushes secret new peace plan on Ukraine Tom Balmforth and Anastasiia Malenko Updated November 20, 2025  11:06am ,first published November 20, 2025  5:44am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Key points The US has reportedly signalled to President Volodymyr Zelensky that he must accept a US-drafted framework to end the war with Russia.

The framework, reportedly a 28-point plan, includes proposals for Ukraine to give up the eastern Donbas region and reduce the size of its armed forces.

In return, Ukraine would reportedly receive a US security guarantee against future Russian aggression.

London/Kyiv: The US has reportedly signalled to President Volodymyr Zelensky that he must accept an American-drafted framework to end the war with Russia, which proposes that Ukraine give up territory and some weapons, in what would be a major setback for Kyiv. Two US sources, who asked not to be identified because of the sensitivity of the matter, told Reuters the proposals include cutting the size of Ukraines armed forces, among other things. Washington wants Kyiv to accept the main points, they said. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is reportedly displeased by the proposal. AP Such a plan would represent a serious blow for Kyiv as it faces further Russian territorial gains in eastern Ukraine, and Zelensky faces a corruption scandal that on Wednesday saw parliament dismiss the energy and justice ministers. Meanwhile, Britain has warned military options are ready should a Russian spy ship off the coast of Scotland become a threat after it directed lasers at British pilots sent to monitor it.

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Related Article Russia-Ukraine war Ukraine nuclear corruption scandal ensnares Zelenskys friend. The timing couldnt be worse Defence Secretary John Healey said shining lasers at RAF aircraft was deeply dangerous and that the UK was poised to react depending on the surveillance vessel Yantars next move. On Ukraine, Londons Telegraph reported that US President Donald Trumps administration had been working with Moscow on the latest peace proposal, inspired by the recent ceasefire agreement in Gaza. The 28-point plan was thrashed out in a recent flurry of secret talks between Trumps envoy, Steve Witkoff, and key Putin advisor, Kirill Dmitriev, renewing fears that Ukraine is being frozen out of discussions about its future. Under the deal, Ukraine would give up control of the eastern Donbas region but retain legal ownership. Russia would pay an undisclosed rental fee for the region, the Telegraph reported, citing officials familiar with the matter.

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Axios reported that in return, Ukraine would get a US security guarantee for Kyiv and Europe against future Russian aggression, citing a US official with direct knowledge of the matter. The White House declined to comment on the matter. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on X that Washington will continue to develop a list of potential ideas for ending this war based on input from both sides of this conflict Ending a complex and deadly war such as the one in Ukraine requires an extensive exchange of serious and realistic ideas. And achieving a durable peace will require both sides to agree to difficult but necessary concessions, Rubio said. Related Article Russia-Ukraine war Poland says Russia-linked Ukrainians behind rail sabotage Zelensky, who is holding talks in Turkey with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, was also expected to meet Witkoff in Ankara, but the meeting was postponed. According to the Telegraph, the Ukrainian president was displeased by the latest proposal after it was briefed to his officials.

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In comments on Telegram, Zelensky did not mention Washingtons framework but called for effective American leadership to help bring the more than 3 -year-old war to an end. The main thing for stopping the bloodshed and achieving lasting peace is that we work in coordination with all our partners and that American leadership remains effective, strong, Zelensky wrote after meeting Erdogan. Ukraine giving up land has been a long-held demand of Putin since he met Trump in Alaska for peace talks in August, but Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out surrendering the entire Donbas. Russia has captured more than 80 per cent of the region since its 2022 full-scale invasion, according to the Institute for the Study of War. No face-to-face talks have taken place between Kyiv and Moscow since a meeting in Istanbul in July, and Russian forces have continued to grind out territorial gains in the east. While efforts to revive negotiations appear to be gaining momentum, Moscow has shown no sign of changing its basic peace terms, which also include Kyiv renouncing plans to join NATO.

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The Kremlin said Russian representatives would not be involved in the Ankara talks, but that Putin was open to conversations with the US and Turkey about the results of the discussions. A European diplomat, commenting on the purported new US proposals, said they could be another attempt by the Trump administration to push Kyiv into a corner, but added there could be no solution that did not consider Ukraines position or that of Washingtons European allies. Another European diplomat said the suggestion that Ukraine cut its army seemed like a Russian demand rather than a serious proposal. The latest deal has been thrashed out by Putins investment envoy Kirill Dmitriev (left) and Trumps envoy Steve Witkoff, seen together here in St Petersburg in April. AP In another development, it emerged that Trumps special envoy for Ukraine, Keith Kellogg, is set to leave his role in January, according to Reuters, citing four US sources speaking on condition of anonymity. Kellogg, a retired lieutenant-general, had been widely seen as a key advocate of Kyiv during his tenure.

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Meanwhile, a Russian drone and missile barrage on Ukraines western city of Ternopil killed at least 25 people, including three children, authorities said on Wednesday, Ukraine time. The nighttime attack hit two nine-storey apartment blocks in Ternopil, about 200 kilometres from the Polish border, according to Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko. At least 73 people, including 15 children, were injured, emergency services said. At least 19 among those killed were burned alive, including three children aged 5, 7 and 16, Klymenko said. Two dozen people are still unaccounted for, he said on national television, and rescuers expect to work at least two more days to complete a search of the rubble. Rescue workers clear the rubble of a residential building which was heavily damaged by a Russian strike on Ternopil, Ukraine. AP Russia fired 476 strike and decoy drones, as well as 48 missiles of various types, at Ukrainian targets overnight, Ukraines air force said. The bombardment included 47 cruise missiles, with air defences intercepting all but six of them, the air force said. Western-supplied F-16 and Mirage-2000 jets intercepted at least 10 cruise missiles, it said.

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Every brazen attack against ordinary life indicates that the pressure on Russia [to stop the war] is insufficient, Zelensky wrote on the messaging app Telegram. Russias Defence Ministry said on Wednesday that it had attacked Ukrainian energy facilities and military-industrial targets, including long-range drone depots, in retaliation against strikes by Kyiv on Russian territory. It said that Ukraine fired four American-supplied ATACMS missiles at the Russian city of Voronezh on Tuesday. All four were shot down, the ministry said, but the debris damaged some buildings. There were no casualties, the ministry said. Romania scrambled two Eurofighter Typhoon jets and two F-16s when a drone entered the NATO members airspace during Wednesdays Russian attacks on western Ukraine, Romanias Ministry of National Defence said.

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The Polish military also said that Polish and allied aircraft were deployed in the middle of the night as a preventive measure. Polands Rzeszow and Lublin airports were closed temporarily to prioritise military aviation, the Polish Air Navigation Services Agency said. Speaking at a briefing in London, John Healey, the UK defence secretary, also warned that a Royal Navy frigate and RAF Poseidon P-8 aircraft were tracking Russian spy ship Yantars every move. An image of the Russian spy ship Yantar which is operating off the northern coast of Scotland. AP The Yantar, designed for intelligence gathering and mapping undersea cables, is currently off Britain, north of Scotland, Healey said. The BBC reported that the laser-pointing episode occurred within the last two weeks. We have military options ready should the Yantar change course, Healey said. This is the first time weve had this action directed against the British RAF. We take it extremely seriously.

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The Royal Navy and RAF routinely shadow potential threats to national security, and such missions to monitor Russian vessels and submarines have become more frequent since Moscows full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. The Russian embassy, in a statement, accused the British government of being Russophobic and whipping up militaristic hysteria, adding that Moscow has no interest in undermining the UKs security. Reuters, AP Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
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WorldNorth AmericaTrump's America Opinion A White House love story: The very public break-up that has Washington gripped

Monica Hesse November 19, 2025  4:30pm Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 25 View all comments

Long ago, whether they realised it or not, Americans absorbed via cultural osmosis the significance of Olivia Nuzzi and Ryan Lizza. She: a swaggering reporter for New York Magazine who approached each piece like a knife fight. Hope Hicks, Joe Biden, Mehmet Oz, Donald Trump  she shivved everyone, but they kept talking to her anyway. And yes, some jealous people wondered whether that was because she was blonde and young and beautiful, but more importantly, she was a hell of a reporter. Olivia Nuzzi and Ryan Lizza attend a White House Correspondents Dinner after party in April 2023. Getty Images for CBS News He: a star correspondent for the New Yorker, Politico and CNN whose interview with Anthony Scaramucci led to the very short-term White House communications directors termination (back in 2017, or roughly 5 million years ago). They helped shape our understanding of politics and politicians in the Trump era. They were also in love, sharing a Georgetown home and a glittering Washington social life, as well as a fat contract with Simon & Schuster to co-write a postmortem on the 2020 presidential campaign. But both personal and professional relationships dissolved a little more than a year ago when it was revealed that Nuzzi had entered into a murky personal relationship with vaccine-loathing E. coli-bather Robert F. Kennedy Jr, the former Democratic scion who was soon to become Trumps health secretary.

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(Representatives for Kennedy deflected when asked about it at the time, emphasising that they had met in person only once, when she interviewed him.) Nuzzi had covered RFKs presidential campaign, so this was very, very bad. She lost her job and parted ways with Lizza. And this might have all been memory-holed into the bin of minor Washington scandals, except that, like moths to a flaming porta-potty, they both reappeared this week, each with their own literary account of the events. Robert F. Kennedy Jr at home in Los Angeles in June 2024. NYT I would not like to think about the worm in his brain that other people found so funny. I loved his brain, Nuzzi writes in an excerpt, published on Monday by Vanity Fair, where she now works, from her forthcoming American Canto. The memoir chronicles the affair while referring to RFK Jr as simply the Politician. You want a book to explain exactly how one lusts after a man who left two wives and wears jeans to the gym. From excerpts, though, this book seems instead to explain California wildfires. Were thousands of words in and caught in an endless metaphor. Olivia is driving from flames in her car. Olivia is watching the coast burn from her deck and worrying about woodland creatures: How many like the rattlesnake, his little soul swallowed without ceremony in one breath?

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I did not bother to count how many paragraphs were about bamboo (haha I did: six paragraphs), but the gist of it is that Lizza alleges that while he was back tending their shared Georgetown home, he discovered, via discarded love letters and hotel stationery, that Nuzzi was off having an affair with a presidential candidate three decades her senior. The plot twist he reveals at the end: Hes not even talking about RFK Jr but about another prior dalliance. Nuzzi, in his telling, had allegedly previously had her little soul swallowed without ceremony by former South Carolina governor Mark Sanford. Ryan Lizza attends an event in Washington DC in March 2022. Getty Images Like bamboo, he writes, the truth has a way of forcing itself out into the open. (Nuzzi, via her publicist, did not respond to a request for comment. Neither did Sanford  who, if you remember him at all, its likely for his 2009 creation of the euphemism hiking the Appalachian Trail, which he used to explain a multi-day vanishing act while carrying on an affair with an Argentine journalist.)

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We will get back to the scandal in a minute, but any recovering English majors read these tortured, florid confessions and thought the exact same thing: Aha, so it turns out four Zs is how many surname Zs a relationship can accommodate before it implodes. The stories Lizza and Nuzzi tell give you the extremely wrong idea of what it means to be a journalist. We, despite what every Hollywood property from House of Cards to The West Wing would have you believe, do not date our sources. (We dont become friends with them. We dont even let them buy us coffee.) Also, what with Tweedledum talking about moving into a three-storey Georgetown house with a courtyard, and Tweedledidion tooling around Malibu in a convertible, I feel compelled to clarify that most reporters are tooling around Costco parking lots in Hyundai Elantras. Were not rich, guys. The only skill that exceeds our ability to sniff out stories is our ability to sniff out the leftovers from someone elses taco-bar lunch meeting. The White House press pack in the Oval Office in October. AP Anyway, back to the alleged affair(s). What can we take from this, besides the fact that everyone has a type, and somebody has to be interested exclusively in elder long-shot politicians who have public and storied histories of infidelity? Is the point that to understand another person  to really understand them, well enough to explain them to the American public, as Nuzzi did repeatedly in her stories  you have to fall in love with them a little bit? That these are men who manage to pry votes from thousands of citizens, and of course theyre also going to work magic on a 20-something from Jersey?

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We dont have celebrity scandals quite like we used to. They are stage-managed now. Everything is co-ordinated through publicists, released in time for a new project, workshopped to death via a crisis management firm. Related Article Lunch with Scaramooch! Scaramooch! Whats it like in Mar-a-Lago? But into this sanitised celebrity culture, Nuzzi and Lizza  two comparative normies whose private lives we should know nothing about  have brought unto us the salaciousness of sex, plus the weight of Washington, plus the navel-gazing introspection available only to people who have spent their entire careers dissecting the foibles and private behaviours of other powerful people, and who finally have the opportunity and extensive vocabulary to turn the pen upon themselves and say, its my turn now! These people. God. These people. Monica Hesse is a screens critic for The Washington Posts Style section. Previously, she was an opinion columnist who frequently wrote about gender and its impact on society.

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Updated WorldNorth AmericaTrump diplomacy Things happen: Trump downplays journalists murder as he hosts Saudi leader Michael Koziol November 19, 2025  3:02am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 146 View all comments

Washington: US President Donald Trump played down the murder of Saudi journalist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi as he rolled out the red carpet for Saudi Arabian leader Mohammed bin Salman, saying things happen and admonishing reporters for embarrassing the Saudi prince. The Saudi prime minister and crown prince is making his first visit to Washington since 2018  months before the assassination  amid great fanfare from the White House, which lavished the kingdoms de facto ruler with a welcoming ceremony, red carpet entrance and later tonight a formal dinner. Loading Khashoggis fate remains a hot-button issue in the US, which is where he was based at the time of his murder inside the Saudi consulate in Turkey. He wrote for publications such as The Washington Post and criticised the crown prince. The Central Intelligence Agency concluded Mohammed ordered Khashoggis murder. Saudi Arabia initially denied the killing, then claimed there was a spontaneous fistfight, and later blamed it on rogue operators.

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As the two leaders met in the Oval Office on Wednesday (AEDT), Trump scolded a journalist from ABC News America for asking about Khashoggis killing, then played it down and disputed the CIA assessment. Youre mentioning somebody [Khashoggi] that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about, Trump said. Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen. But he [Mohammed bin Salman] knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that. You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that. Things happen: Trump played down the murder and disputed the CIA assessment that Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman was responsible. AP Khashoggi was ambushed and strangled by a 15-member assassination squad inside the consulate. His body was never found, and it is believed he was dismembered. An investigation by Al Jazeera theorised the corpse was burnt in a large furnace at the Saudi consul-generals Istanbul home.

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A 2019 United Nations report said the murder was planned, overseen and endorsed by high-level Saudi officials and stated: The killing of Mr Khashoggi constituted an extrajudicial killing for which the State of Saudi Arabia is responsible. In the Oval Office on Wednesday, Mohammed said the incident was a huge mistake and had been painful for Saudi Arabia, but defended his countrys record. Trump took the crown prince on a tour of the White House, including portraits of past presidents on the colonnade. AP We did all the right steps of investigation in Saudi Arabia, and weve improved our system to be sure that nothing happen[s] like that, he said. Its painful and its a huge mistake and we are doing our best that this doesnt happen again. Meanwhile, Trump confirmed he would sell prized F-35 fighter jets, manufactured by US defence contractor Lockheed Martin, to Saudi Arabia. The kingdom will also purchase nearly 300 American tanks.

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The deal was not conditional on Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords to normalise relations with Israel. Mohammed indicated he was open to doing so, but wanted commitments on a two-state solution in Palestine. Typically, the US has only sold F-35s to close allies, including NATO members, Australia, Canada, Japan, South Korea and Israel. The leaders agreed on a deal for the US to sell F-35 fighter jets to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. AP Trump dismissed suggestions Israel might be concerned about the US selling the jets to Riyadh. Israels aware and theyre going to be very happy, he said. Successive US presidents have committed to maintaining what is known as a qualitative military edge for Israel in its region.

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The president also denied he had any conflict of interest with Saudi Arabia because his company, the Trump Organisation, and his family members are doing significant business in and with Saudi Arabia. Related Article Billionaires Trumps fortune is soaring as his cancelled empire makes a comeback While Trump was out of office, a fund headed by the crown prince himself invested $US2 billion with a private equity firm owned by Trumps son-in-law, Jared Kushner. Both entities are also involved in a $US55 billion ($84.5 billion) deal to buy out publicly listed video game buyer Electronic Arts and take the company private, The New York Times reported in September. A day before this weeks meeting, Dar Global, the international arm of Saudi developer Dar Al Arkan, announced it would build a Trump-branded hotel in the Maldives containing 80 ultra-luxury villas on the beach, or over the water, catering for discerning global travellers.

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That project is the latest in a list of projects the Trump Organisation has undertaken with the London-listed, Dubai-based company; a partnership that has accelerated since Trump won last years presidential election. Related Article Explainer

World politics Despot, radical  peacemaker? Meet Saudi Arabias millennial prince MBS Trump told reporters he was no longer involved in running the Trump Organisation and left that to his sons. What my family does is fine; they do business all over. Theyve done very little with Saudi Arabia really. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
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WorldNorth AmericaTrump diplomacy White House defends Trump telling a female reporter quiet, piggy Michael Koziol November 19, 2025  6:34am Save You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share 322 View all comments

Washington: The White House has defended President Donald Trump over shushing a female reporter and calling her piggy as she attempted to question him over the Epstein files. The interaction occurred on board Air Force One en route to Trumps Florida mansion, Mar-a-Lago, on Friday. Journalists had been asking about Trumps past friendship with Jeffrey Epstein after the US Congress released thousands of pages of emails from the convicted sex offenders estate. Loading Trump, who was at that point urging Republicans not to release the Epstein files, was speaking about Epsteins links to prominent Democrats such as former president Bill Clinton and economist Larry Summers. Bloomberg White House reporter Catherine Lucey began to ask a follow-up question about why Trump opposed releasing the files if, as he claimed, there was nothing incriminating about him in the documents.

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Trump then pointed a finger at her and said: Quiet. Quiet, piggy. When contacted, a White House official defended Trumps remarks in a statement to this masthead. Donald Trump on board Air Force One last week, where he told a female reporter quiet, piggy. AP This reporter behaved in an inappropriate and unprofessional way towards her colleagues on the plane, they said. If youre going to give it, you have to be able to take [it]. The official did not say what it was about Luceys conduct that they viewed as inappropriate or unprofessional.

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The incident was reported contemporaneously by CBS News Jennifer Jacobs on Friday night, US time, but did not gain much traction until days later. Bloomberg White House correspondent Catherine Lucey. Bloomberg Bloomberg News was contacted for comment. A spokesperson told The Guardian: Our White House journalists perform a vital public service, asking questions without fear or favour. We remain focused on reporting issues of public interest fairly and accurately. Trump frequently tells reporters to be quiet if he objects to a line of questioning or believes they have already had their go. He has likened women to pigs before, having once described comedian Rosie ODonnell as a big, fat pig. Alicia Machado, a Miss Universe pageant winner, has claimed that Trump once called her Miss Piggy and told her to lose weight.

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Disgusting and unacceptable Trump has also used the insult on men. During last years election campaign, he would sometimes encourage women at his rallies to get their fat pig husbands off the couch and into a voting booth. No other reporters aboard the plane appeared to react to Trumps insult, but many journalists condemned the president as the video gained attention on Wednesday (AEDT). Related Article Note From The Editor Attempts to silence reporters are becoming increasingly troubling CNN host Jake Tapper called the remark disgusting and completely unacceptable and said the Epstein topic appeared to anger Trump. The White House Correspondents Association was contacted for comment.

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Meanwhile, Trump snapped at another female reporter in the Oval Office on Wednesday when she asked him why he was waiting for Congress to compel the release of the Epstein files, rather than just ordering the Department of Justice to release them now. Its not the question that I mind, its your attitude, Trump told ABC News Americas Mary Bruce. Its the way you ask these questions  youre a terrible person and a terrible reporter. Related Article Updated

Trump diplomacy Things happen: Trump downplays journalists murder as he hosts Saudi leader Bruce had earlier asked Trump and Saudi Arabian leader Mohammed bin Salman about the 2018 murder of Saudi journalist and dissident Jamal Khashoggi; a Saudi plot that took place inside the Saudi consulate in Turkey. The CIA believes Mohammed ordered the killing. Trump called it a horrible, insubordinate and just a terrible question, and said the ABCs television licence should be taken away by the Federal Communications Commission.

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When youre 97 per cent negative to Trump, and then Trump wins the election in a landslide, that means obviously your news is not credible, and youre not credible as a reporter, Trump said. Get a note directly from our foreign correspondents on whats making headlines around the world. Sign up for our weekly What in the World newsletter.
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Dive Brief:

Edgewell Personal Care plans to consolidate its manufacturing operations as part of a restructuring aimed at cutting costs.

The company will combine four manufacturing factory sites in North America into a single-scaled automated plant in an undisclosed location, President and CEO Rod Little said on Edgewells Nov. 13 earnings call.

The companys plan includes selling its North America feminine care business for $340 million to Stockholm-based hygiene and health company Essity, with a production facility in Dover, Delaware, as part of the deal.

Dive Insight:

The consolidation means the product care maker will shutter four manufacturing sites in North America, including the Schick brand facility in Milford, Connecticut, an Edgewell spokesperson said in an email.

The Milford location is scheduled to close by the end of December 2027, cutting 293 jobs, according to a Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification letter sent Nov. 13 to the state. The first round of layoffs will commence in March 2026.

The company did not share the location of its other North American manufacturing facilities due to competitive reasons, the Edgewell spokesperson said.

As for its feminine care business, which makes brands such as Playtex, Stayfree and o.b., Edgewell plans to use the sale funds to strengthen its balance sheet and invest in the long-term growth of its core businesses. Those categories are shave, sun and skin care, and grooming.

This transaction marks a pivotal step in Edgewells transformation, Little said in a statement, adding that the divestiture will also enable the product care maker to hone its focus on its core categories.

For Essity, the feminine care segment acquisition would enable the Sweden-based company to build a stronger personal care business in North America as part of its strategy focusing on attractive geographies that yield high financial returns, Ulrika Kolsrud, Essity president and CEO, said in a statement.

With the feminine care sale pending, Edgewell intends to place its attention and resources on categories where the company has clear competitive advantages and strong momentum, Little said on the recent earnings call.

The company has been implementing changes in its business model as fiscal 2025 was a challenging year, CFO Francesca Weissman said on the call. The challenges were rooted in external factors such as tariffs, currency fluctuations, geopolitical uncertainty as well as a softer-than-expected sun care season and slower recovery in feminine care.
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Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) and Sen. Jack Reed (D-R.I.) have reportedly raised concerns about the potential national security risks posed by Trump family-operated World Liberty Financial (WLFI).

Senators Flag Questionable Ties At WLFI

The Democratic senators, who are also minority members of the Senate Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, wrote a letter to Attorney General Pamela Bondi and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent, expressing concerns about the lack of adequate safeguards at WLFI, as reported by CNBC on Tuesday.

Dont Miss: If there was a new fund backed by Jeff Bezos offering a 7-9% target yield with monthly dividends would you invest in it?

The senators cited a September report from a non-profit corporate watchdog, Accountable.US, which highlighted the sale of $WLFI tokens by World Liberty Financial to entities with questionable ties.

These included traders linked to a North Korean hacking group, a sanctioned Russian Ruble-backed sanctions evasion tool, an Iranian crypto exchange, and Tornado Cash, a known money laundering platform.

Warren and Reed urged the Treasury and the Justice Department to submit information on possible enforcement actions related to World Liberty Financial by Dec. 1.

See Also: The AI Marketing Platform Backed by Insiders from Google, Meta, and Amazon  Invest at $0.81/Share Before Nov. 20

Trump Crypto Continues To Face Fire

This recent move by Warren and Reed is not the first time the Trump familys cryptocurrency venture has come under scrutiny. In September, Warren criticized the Trump familys reported $5 billion increase in paper fortune following the trading debut of WLFI as corruption, plain and simple.

Moreover, the Trump family also drew severe criticism for the controversial pardon of Changpeng Zhao, CEO of Binance, by President Donald Trump in October. It was reported that the pardon was linked to a substantial boost in the market capitalization of World Liberty Financial.

However, Trump denied knowing the Binance CEO personally, in a bid to distance himself amid the backlash. Sen. Chris Murphy (D-CT) responded to Trump's statements, saying, "Priceless / he thinks we are so dumb."

Image via Shutterstock

Trending Now:
Elliott Investment Management has acquired a substantial stake in Barrick Mining, reported Reuters, citing sources familiar with the matter.

The development comes as Barrick faces operational challenges and rising expenses, with Elliotts stake estimated to be worth at least $700m (C$980.03m).

Over the past year, Barrick has faced setbacks including the loss of control over a key gold mine in Mali, resulting in a $1bn write-off.

This occurred alongside the departure of CEO Mark Bristow after nearly seven years at the helm.

The challenges have been compounded by rising costs at several North American assets as well as the seizure of the companys Mali mine by the countrys military junta.

According to the Financial Times, Elliott has become one of the ten largest shareholders in Barrick.

The hedge funds interest follows reports that Barrick is considering a major restructuring, potentially splitting its operations into two separate businesses, one focused on North America and the other on Africa and Asia.

Last week, Reuters reported that the company has raised the possibility of such a split.

In North America, Barrick is working to advance the Fourmile gold project in Nevada.

The company did not immediately respond to a request for comment from Reuters.

Last month, Bloomberg reported that Newmont has explored a possible transaction to obtain control of Barricks Nevada gold assets.

Barricks North American portfolio includes multiple gold mines in Nevada operated through a joint venture with Newmont, as well as mines in the Dominican Republic.

Beyond North America, Barrick owns copper and gold mines in higher-risk regions such as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Papua New Guinea.

These assets are largely a legacy of the former Randgold business.

Last month, Barrick Minings Loulo-Gounkoto gold mine in Mali resumed operations after more than nine months.

"Elliott acquires stake in Barrick Mining " was originally created and published by Mining Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




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A young motorist who was detective driving without insurance for a third time has been given a suspended jail term.

Jordan Cawley, aged 20, of 17 Cluain na Ri, Ballina pleaded guilty at the local district court to driving without insurance or a licence.

Gda Ian Lynott told the court he observed the defendant driving a BMW 5 Series on Emmet Street, Ballina at around 11.54am on June 1 last. The car was not insured and was seized by the Garda. Cawley was cooperative and admitted the offence when stopped. He has two previous convictions for driving without insurance.

Solicitor Peter Loftus said his client has since sold the vehicle and asked Judge Sandra Murphy to consider imposing a community service order in lieu of a custodial sentence.

Judge Murphy expressed concern that Cawley was facing a third conviction of this nature.

This is his third no insurance charge in a short period and it is concerning. It means that he is just not getting it when it comes to insurance."

The judge noted from his probation report that Cawley was under a lot of pressure but she had to consider the protection of the public.

Judge Murphy imposed a three-month prison sentence, suspended for one year. During that time, Cawley must attend meetings with the Probation Service and with the training and employment services. She also imposed a four-year driving ban and ordered Cawley to undergo the Pro-Social driving course.

You are a young man and things may improve for you, she concluded.
A Ballinrobe councillor has complained that it takes too long to get an appointment to see a doctor.

Cllr Michael Burke was commenting at last week's meeting of Mayo County Council when concerns were raised about strained services in towns due to the rise in population. He said it was time the Government got smart and assessed capacity before placing people in smaller urban centres.

If I look for a doctors appointment in Ballinrobe, I will probably get it in a weeks time.

Cllr Burke said he had met an elderly couple hours before the meeting who had a bad experience trying to see a doctor and were told to go online to make an appointment.

We had only three GPs in Ballinrobe a few years ago, now we seem to have a huge amount but they seem to only work in specific timeframes. People dont get sick on a specific timeframe, they get sick every day, and God help them if they fall ill on a Friday because then they will have to go to Westdoc.

Cllr Richard Finn said too many medical professionals, including nurses, were leaving Ireland.

We are exporting our own, they are in Australia because we are not paying them, and your father or mother or you or me can then end up being nursed for the last few years of your life by someone from thousands of miles away. It doesnt seem right to me.
Allentown, PA (18103)

Today

Partly sunny, windy, and cold with wind chills in the teens and 20s all day. West winds will gust 25-35mph. A few lake-effect snow showers are possible north of I-78 in the afternoon and evening, especially in the Poconos. .

Tonight

Partly cloudy, cold, and brisk. Wind chills in the teens overnight.
Elon Musk just reopened one of his favorite long-time grudges, and, as usual, it was far from a whisper.

After the Gates Foundation dumped 65% of its Microsoft (MSFT) stake in Q3 (an estimated $8.8 billion gain), Musk jumped on X (formerly Twitter) to reignite his feud with Bill Gates on his longstanding short position against Tesla (TSLA).

If Gates hasnt fully closed out the crazy short position he had better do so soon, Musk wrote, pointing to a bet Gates has held for roughly eight years.

Tesla stock has been choppy, but it managed to eke out nearly a 19% gain over the past year. Musk seized on the moment to effectively remind everyone how badly the short position had aged.

Elon Musk is calling out Bill Gates again over a huge Tesla short.Photo by Anna Moneymaker on Getty Images

Musks latest warning lands after the new Gates Foundation moves

Musks latest warning shot came after the Gates Foundations new 13F showed off a massive reduction in its Microsoft stake, along with a simultaneous unwinding of a wide range of legacy holdings.

Consequently, Musk jumped onto X to revive his longest-running grievances, calling Gates eight-year Tesla short crazy.

More Tesla:

Its essential to note that this isnt a completely new feud. Last year, Musk even warned that if Tesla became the most valuable company, the short position might bankrupt Gates philanthropic wealth.

For Musk, this isnt just a simple trade. It's also a clear bet against Teslas long-term mission, and evidence that high-profile shorts can significantly influence retail sentiment.

Gates Foundation Q3 moves:

Trimmed Microsoft stake by 65%

Exited UPS and Crown Castle

Lowered positions in Berkshire Hathaway, Waste Management, and Caterpillar

Sold shares of Canadian National Railway, Walmart, FedEx, Kraft Heinz

The $500 million bet that soured

The Musk-Gates feud wasnt the usual social-media war, but it started with a massive, very real trade.

In 2022, Bill Gates had reportedly taken a colossal $500 million short position against Tesla, betting the business would fall in its attempts to scale as an EV giant. Instead, Tesla ripped higher, with reports pegging Gates loss at roughly $1.5 billion.

For Musk, this wasnt just a tactical call; he framed it as a massive bet on Tesla dying, or essentially a wager against EV adoption itself.

Related: Palantir CEO Karp just settled major debate

Moreover, in Walter Isaacsons biography and Musks own public comments, he continued to needle Gates for holding the short, even as Tesla ramped up production and became the EV behemoth that it is today.
Reading, PA (19601)

Today

Partly sunny, windy, and cold with wind chills in the teens and 20s all day. West winds will gust 25-35mph. A few lake-effect snow showers are possible north of I-78 in the afternoon and evening, especially in the Poconos. .

Tonight

Partly cloudy, cold, and brisk. Wind chills in the teens overnight.
Elon Musks artificial intelligence company xAI is reportedly nearing a fundraising deal that would more than double its valuation to $230 billion.

The company, which makes the Grok AI chatbot, is in advanced talks to raise $15 billion in new equity, The Wall Street Journal reports. The new valuation would represent more than twice the $113 billion xAI disclosed when it bought Musks social media platform X in March.

A raise of this size would mark another significant step in the AI funding race that has swept the financial world this year. Competitors including OpenAI have raised vast sums to build new infrastructure and improve their chatbots. OpenAI closed a $6.6 billion share sale valuing it at $500 billion in October.

Also this week, Anthropic got a $5 billion investment from Microsoft and $10 billion from Nvidia that pushed its valuation up to about $350 billion.

The trend has fueled concerns that tech company valuations are becoming overinflated, with leaders including Google chief executive Sundar Pichai drawing comparisons with the dot-com bubble around the turn of the century, which eventually burst.

Musk has been vocal in suggesting that Tesla, which he also leads, invest in his AI firm. But at Teslas recent shareholder meeting, shareholders were not so sure. A proxy vote on the issue did not bring enough votes in favor of such a measure for Tesla to inject cash into xAI.

Grok has attracted widespread backlash for generating false content, anti-semitic statements and other hate speech. It recently launched a website called Grokipedia, which is supposed to rival Wikipedia.

Previously, xAI raised $5 billion in equity plus $5 billion in debt in June to build out a data centre in Tennessee. Musks SpaceX reportedly contributed $2 billion to that round.

The terms of the latest fundraise were revealed to investors on Tuesday, The Wall Street Journal reported. Musk posted on X saying false in response to a similar CNBC report on a fundraise by xAI last week.

Separately, Musk was at a dinner with President Donald Trump at the White House on Tuesday, as part of a visit by Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. His appearance has led to speculation that a bitter feud between Musk and Trump could be thawing.

xAI didn't immediately respond to a request for comment.
NICOSIA, Cyprus (AP)  Some of the estimated 20 trillion cubic feet of natural gas discovered in waters off Cyprus could reach European markets as soon as 2027, the Cypriot president said Wednesday, as Europe looks for more ways to wean itself off Russian energy.

President Nikos Christodoulides said that the first quantity of natural gas that could be exported abroad will come from one of six discovered deposits called Cronos, which is operated by a consortium made up of Italian company Eni and French firm TotalEnergies.

Christodoulides told an energy conference that the consortium would make its final decision to move ahead with the project next year, with Cronos gas potentially reaching a processing plant in the Egyptian port city of Damietta for liquefaction and transportation to European markets by ship in 2027.

Cyprus is part of the energy solutions for energy security in the eastern Mediterranean and like I said, its an important objective to align your interests with those of powerful states and to act as an alternative energy corridor for Europe, Christodoulides said.

By comparison, Cyprus' current natural gas quantities are roughly equal to a 10-year supply of the hydrocarbon that Russia would have piped to Europe through the now inoperable Nord Stream pipeline, powering more than 22 million homes annually.

Speaking at the same conference, Cypriot Energy Minister George Pananastasiou said that natural gas from the Cronos deposit could reach markets the quickest, because it can be connected to infrastructure already in place conveying gas from Egypts huge Zor deposit around 80 kilometers (50 miles) away.

Papanastasiou said that a late 2027 target date for Cronos gas to reach market is optimistic but doable.

According to the Cypriot energy minister, plans to export natural gas from another of Cyprus deposits known as Aphrodite foresee the positioning of a floating processing plant atop the actual reservoir to modify the hydrocarbon into what he called dry gas that can be routed directly to consumers inside Egypt.

The processed gas will reach a facility near Egypts Port Said and will either be utilized for domestic Egyptian consumption or liquefied for export to Europe, depending on what will be decided in further consultations between Cyprus and the deposits operator, a partnership between Chevron, Shell and Israeli company NewMed Energy.

Christodoulides said that he would travel to Lebanon next week to exclusively discuss Cyprus energy plans. Cyprus shares maritime borders with Lebanon, but the Lebanese government hasnt fully ratified an agreement delineating the exclusive economic zones of the two countries. That has prevented Cyprus from opening up areas abutting Lebanese waters for hydrocarbons exploration.
By Max A. Cherney

SAN FRANCISCO (Reuters) -Advanced Micro Devices (AMD), Cisco Systems (CSCO) and Saudi Arabian artificial intelligence startup Humain are forming a joint venture to build data centers in the Middle East and have landed their first customer, CEOs at the three companies told Reuters in an interview on Tuesday.

The yet-to-be-named joint venture will kick off with a 100-megawatt data center project in Saudi Arabia - the computing capacity of which Humain has contracted to supply generative video startup Luma AI, according to Humain CEO Tareq Amin. The size of the project and the first customer have not been reported before.

"They will be the first customer of this cluster," Amin said, adding that Luma has contracted to purchase the entire 100-megawatt capacity.

The joint venture between the companies is a byproduct of a flurry of deals announced when U.S. President Donald Trump visited Riyadh in May, and more collaboration is expected as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Trump meet in Washington this week. Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund has backed Humain and its plans to produce significant data center buildouts across the country because of abundant, available property and cheap power.

U.S. tech firms such as Nvidia, Qualcomm also secured agreements in May.

In May, AMD said it formed a $10 billion collaboration with Humain that included purchases of AMD's advanced AI chips. In the joint venture, AMD and Cisco are minority shareholders and will share in the profit and loss of the endeavor, the executives said. Humain will take the lead, AMD CEO Lisa Su said.

"We will together really have responsibility for ensuring that it's successful," she said.

The companies did not disclose additional financial details.

The joint venture aims to serve a market that includes Asia, Europe, India, the Middle East and Africa, Amin said, with a total market of roughly 4.5 billion people.

The plans include building up to one gigawatt of new data centers to support the joint venture by 2030.

For the initial buildout of 100 megawatts, Cisco will provide the networking equipment and other infrastructure and AMD will provide its MI450 AI chips. The first stage is planned for construction in 2026 and will use renewable energy entirely, Amin said. Humain is receiving purchase orders for some of the future building as well.

Construction has not yet begun on the various projects, Amin said.

In addition to providing infrastructure equipment, Cisco will also use its salesforce to help sell capacity in the yet-to-be-built data centers. Cisco CEO Chuck Robbins said that the company has a 25-year history of putting together incentives for its sales teams and plans to use that expertise to help Humain sell its data center capacity.

(Reporting by Max A. Cherney in San Francisco; Editing by Lincoln Feast)
How bats and moths keep Africas giant trees alive

New research shows that baobab tree flowers have adapted to meet the needs of either bats or moths, and without these creatures, the trees will not survive.

Baobabs are sometimes called upside-down trees, because their branches look like roots reaching skywards. Of the eight species of baobab in the world, six are confined to Madagascar, one to northern Australia and one species, Adansonia digitata, is found across the savannah regions of continental Africa.

Theyre more than striking trees; they are cornerstones of African ecosystems and livelihoods. They provide fruit, fibre, medicine and shelter for both people and wildlife. But its their night-blooming flowers and partnership with tiny nocturnal visitors, like bats and moths, that hold the secrets of their evolution and future survival.

Baobabs have huge white flowers that are visited at night by bats and moths to drink their sweet-tasting nectar. While feeding on the nectar, the flower covers its nocturnal visitors with pollen which they carry to the next flower they visit. This transfers pollen from the male part (anther) of one flower to the female part (stigma) of the next flower.

Without this pollination, the trees would not be able to produce nutritious fruit, which African people have eaten for thousands of years, or seeds to grow the next generation of baobabs.

Im a baobab ecologist who has studied these trees for 18 years. In my latest research, my team studied 284 baobabs across west (Ghana), east (Kenya), and southern Africa (South Africa, Namibia, Botswana) to see which animals pollinated their flowers. We observed bats and moths for 205 hours, filmed and caught bats to identify them, and collected pollen from their bodies. We also compared the flowers shapes, nectar, and scents across the regions.

Our study found that the baobabs have different pollinators in different regions and have each adapted their flowers to suit those pollinators.

The baobabs are all genetically the same species, but their floral traits, shape, scent and nectar have evolved to suit the different pollinators in each region.

It takes thousands of years for these changes to happen. This also means the trees are deeply dependent on their relationships with either bats or moths. If these creatures go into a decline because of climate change, the trees might not reproduce. This would endanger not just the baobab species but the web of life that depends on it.

More research is needed about the animals that are pollinating baobab flowers and how important they are to the survival of baobabs in future.

Safeguarding Africas tree of life

Protecting pollinators is more than preserving biodiversity. It safeguards the continuity of one of Africas most life-giving trees and the communities rooted in its shade.

For restoration and conservation, one crucial lesson stands out: when selecting baobab seeds and seedlings they must match the pollinators of each region. Flowers emit fragrance and produce volumes of nectar suitable for their pollinators. If flowers fail to attract the proper visitors, they cannot produce fruit or seeds. For example, a baobab tree that is adapted to bats may not thrive where only moths remain.

This is what we found:

West Africa: The main visitor to the baobab trees is the straw-coloured fruit bat (Eidolon helvum), a large species that feeds while hanging upside down from branches. The baobab flowers here reflect their companion: theyre big, with long stalks and deep pools of nectar. The bats rotate the flowers with their thumbs and the pollen brushes their heads and chests. The bats carry this to other blossoms, setting in motion a new generation of trees.

East Africa: Here, the smaller Egyptian fruit bat (Rousettus aegyptiacus) dominates. These bats crash-land directly onto flowers, using the stalk as a springboard. East African flowers have therefore evolved to be smaller and sturdier, with less nectar but still enough to encourage repeated visits through the night.

Southern Africa: No bats visit baobab trees in this region. Instead, a variety of moths fill the role of pollinators. Some hover delicately; others land on the flowers themselves. The flowers here are smaller, with drooping petals and wider stigmas. These subtle adaptations nudge moths into direct contact with pollen-bearing parts.

Secrets of flower form, nectar and scent

We also analysed the flowers and found a range of differences that mirror the feeding styles of bats and moths:

Shape: In bat regions, petals fold back. This makes space for the bats to land or hang on the flowers. In moth regions, petals droop, encouraging close contact and effective pollen transfer.

The length of the peduncle (the stalk that attaches the flower, and later the fruit, to the branch): Flowers on west African baobabs have long stalks that suit large bats feeding while hanging from branches. In east Africa, shorter stalks reduce wobbling when smaller bats land directly on flowers.

Nectar: Large bats encouraged the development of nectar-rich flowers in west Africa. East African flowers produce less nectar for smaller bats, and southern African baobab flowers provide only drops of nectar, just enough for moths.

Stigma position: In southern Africa, some flowers have short and wide stigmas  the part of the female reproductive organ which receives the pollen before it is transferred to the ovary buried below the stamen ball. This is unlike the fully protruding stigmas of west and east African baobab flowers that are visited by bats. For moths, this positioning increases the chance that they brush against the flowers reproductive parts, forcing them to pollinate the flower.

Scent: Baobabs across Africa release unusual sulphur-like compounds that draw bats, but southern African flowers emit sweeter-smelling scent, making them appealing to moths instead.

Our future rests on wings

Birds, bees and beetles do not pollinate baobab flowers, so baobabs rely on moths and bats for survival. Baobab trees can cope with a wide range of environmental and climatic conditions. But bats and moths may be more susceptible to climate change.

Our research shows that even giants depend on delicate partnerships, in this case, with the smallest of night-time visitors. Protecting these pollinators means protecting the baobabs themselves, and with them, the communities and ecosystems that depend on them.

Sarah Venter, Baobab Ecologist, University of the Witwatersrand. This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
You can find original article here WealthManagement. Subscribe to our free daily WealthManagement newsletters.

St. Louis-based Matter Family Office and Denver-domiciled IWP Family Office have decided to combine to create a multifamily office under the Matter name, overseeing more than $10 billion in client assets.

The combined firm launches with backing from private equity investor BW Forsyth Partners. The new firm will have more than 90 employees working in St. Louis, Denver and Dallas/Fort Worth, with about 140 families as clients.

The move comes as wealth managers seek to increase scale and expand resources to compete in a consolidating marketplace. The merger combines public and private investment capabilities, family office administration, bill payment and reporting, as well as family learning and governance programs.

Matter founder Katherine Lintz will be a managing partner. Lintz started the firm in 1990 with one other employee, originally naming it KBL Financial. It changed to a partnership model in 2015.

IWP founder Charlie Willhoit will be CEO and managing partner of the new firm. Willhoit had been an equity research analyst with J.P. Morgan before becoming president of IWP in 2005.

BW Forsyth has a sizable minority ownership position in the new Matter, according to a spokesperson, with the balance of the company stock held by employees. The private equity firm, which is the investment arm of manufacturing and engineering consulting firm Barry-Wehmiller, had already had a stake in the original Matter and had helped it identify IWP as a good merger candidate.

Matter also had a relationship with IWP through its own office in Denver, as well as through a setup facilitated by Jamie McLaughlin, CEO of consultancy J. H. McLaughlin & Co., according to the spokesperson.

According to the St. Louis-based BW Forsyths LinkedIn, the investor deploys operational improvements and strategy development without compromising the autonomy, strategic vision and entrepreneurial spirit of their leadership teams. Its focus areas include equipment for medical and industrial manufacturers, as well as professional services such as insurance. Matter is its first foray into the RIA sector.

The PE backing will support Matters technology, organic growth strategies and acquisitions as the firm continues to scale.

According to the two firms most recent Form ADVs, they were roughly equal in size, with IWP overseeing $3.9 billion in total assets, and Matter overseeing $3.6 billion.

Earlier this year, Cresset, which had its roots as a family office, increased its client assets from approximately $72 billion to nearly $200 billion following its merger with Monticello Associates, an employee-owned institutional consulting firm. Cresset has minority backing from Constellation Wealth Capital, a private equity company founded by Karl Heckenberg, the former CEO of Emigrant Partners.
Symons reported from Hong Kong and Nicholls from London. CNNs Antonia Mortensen and Anna Chernova contributed to this report.
He said the commercial vacancy rate now stands at 11 percent for fashion, a sector particularly affected, due to low-cost clothing available online, and that 23,000 jobs in the sector have been lost over the past five years.

This unfair competition from China and other platforms represents a systemic threat to commerce in France in the coming years. The consequences are clear  the weakening of companies, the disappearance of tens of thousands of jobs, and the erosion of local economies. Commerce is about territory, and this threat endangers it, Cherqui said.

Alliance du Commerce president Bernardi Cherqui said that 2 million parcels arrive in France a day from Chinese platforms including Shein, Temu and Aliexpress. The number has quadrupled over the past three years, he said, adding that number has accelerated since the U.S. scrapped its de minimis rule in May and Chinese companies have sought out new markets for their goods.

The number is used to illustrate the scale of what the federations describe as a systemic issue that has crushed the domestic retail industry, resulting in several high street brands going into bankruptcy.

According to coalition estimates, these practices may have cost French companies as much as 3 billion euros. Sources clarified that this figure is a gauge calculated from financial modeling including revenue projections and market share estimates, rather than an official audit.

The groups say that Sheins aggressive pricing, rapid product turnover, decentralized production model and labor practices, coupled with its noncompliance with European safety standards, has created an unlevel playing field for French fashion brands.

The federations legal action against Shein seeks to stop unfair competition and ensure compliance with European product safety standards, leveling the playing field for French retailers. It also aims to put a price on the economic harm to the sector as well as potentially recover damages, as well as set a legal precedent for regulating global e-commerce platforms operating in Europe.

In a landmark move, 12 French retail federations, alongside several big brands, have launched legal proceedings against Shein s Ireland-based European subsidiary, Infinite Styles Service Co. Ltd.

PARIS  After the hotly contested opening of Sheins first physical retail store earlier this month, French fashion and retail groups are turning up the heat on the Chinese ultra-fast-fashion giant.

Story Continues

This context underlines the urgency of our action and the need to defend a fair, safe and sustainable retail environment, he said.

The suit targets Sheins European operations for allegedly selling non-compliant products and business practices the groups deem systematically unfair, putting French retailers on the back foot as they are required to invest in compliance with increasingly stringent environmental regulations.

Shein on the contrary gains market share by systematically circumventing rules and also reducing all their costs, Cherqui added.

We have learned that several federations and brands are launching a lawsuit alleging unfair competition against our company. These claims are without merit. We regret that these parties have chosen to pursue litigation rather than engage in any constructive dialogue, a spokesperson for Shein told WWD.

Such an initiative resembles a boycott more than a genuine legal challenge, and runs directly counter to the spirit of French and European competition law to protect innovation and consumer choice, not to suppress them. As they arrive, we will review these matters with our legal advisers and will take appropriate steps to defend our interest, the spokesperson added.

This is about defending fair competition and protecting employment, not about opposing foreign brands per se, whether Chinese, Australian, or otherwise, it doesnt matter. It is directed against an economic model that today is completely unfair, said Marc Lolivier, president of the FEVAD e-commerce federation.

The coalition spans French fashion and retail, including groups representing womens ready-to-wear, lingerie, swimwear, jewelry, watches and textiles. Retailers such as Monoprix, Promod and Pesson, collectively representing over 60 corporate entities, are publicly backing the action, while others remain anonymous.

Sheins European operations are run through its Irish subsidiary, making them subject to French courts, which can enforce provisional measures such as suspending the platform.

The distinction between Shein and other e-commerce platforms, such as Temu, is central to the case. Sheins vertically integrated model of selling its own-brand products places it under French consumer protection and unfair competition laws. Other platforms such as Alibaba and Temu operate solely as marketplaces, which fall outside of the scope of this suit.

French authorities have already conducted a major customs inspection, opening every Shein package entering the country over a 24-hour period, and reportedly finding multiple products that fail to meet regulatory standards.

The coalition said that the legal action is designed to send a message that even online retailers headquartered abroad must follow local laws. In France, past actions  such as the temporary suspension of Wish in 2021 over safety concerns  demonstrate that decisive enforcement can be done.

The legal action could have a potential ripple effect across Europe. EU regulations such as the Digital Markets Act and the Digital Services Act, both of which aim to limit the economic dominance of large platforms and the online distribution of illegal content and products, provide additional legal leverage.

Shein, which is already in the sights of the French Parliament, may now face increased oversight and legal pressure to adapt its European operations. Other countries could follow the French coalition, or an EU-level initiative could move to hold global e-commerce platforms accountable for business practices.

What we want to have recognized is that freedom of trade only makes sense if it is fair, and it has not been for five yearsand so we ask for repair of the damage, said Cedric Dubucq of law firm Bruzzo Dubucq, which is representing the federations. We are addressing the entity that is operationally responsible for the European market. This is not an attack on Shein as a brand globally, but on the practices deployed in Europe that undermine competition.

Dubucq noted that the EUs move to remove its own version of the de minimus exemption last week was welcomed by the groups, but not enough.

The case also highlights the evolving legal landscape for digital commerce, and could set a precedent for how ultra-fast fashion platforms operate in Europe.

With the Digital Services Act, the Digital Markets Act, and national consumer protection laws converging, authorities now have tools to address systemic unfair practices  especially by platforms operating across multiple jurisdictions. Coordinated action between national and EU-level regulators is expected to become increasingly common as e-commerce continues to grow.

Historical precedents, such as the temporary suspension of Wish, show that enforcement actions can significantly reduce the market presence of non-compliant players.

This is historic because it brings together 12 major trade federations, marking the unity of our profession and trade actors, added Cherqui. It is unprecedented in the scale of the fight we are waging in defending trade based on respect for rules and consumer safety.

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Texas Governor Greg Abbott, Wednesday, March 13, 2024. [AP Photo/Albert Pezzali]

Last Thursday, the Texas A&M University Systems board of regents voted to ban race and gender ideology in the classroom across the systems 12 campuses. As part of this process, the oversight body outlined revisions to A&Ms Civil Rights Protection and Compliance, and Academic Freedom, Responsibility and Tenure policies. The universitys move follows similar changes at both of the states larger higher education systems, Texas State University and University of Texas.

The anti-democratic measure was enabled by the recent adoption of Texas Senate Bill 37, which removed any previous authority over public institutions of higher learning enjoyed by faculty senates and student-led bodies in favor of direct state control. Another recent Texas bill, which was passed but struck down by a federal court, would have required the display of the Ten Commandments in public schools.

The fascistic administration of Governor Greg Abbott, at the behest of Trump, is seeking to ensure that the approximately 1.6 million students attending public universities in Texas only come into contact with instructional material acceptable to the far right.

As the WSWS has previously reported, the Texas maneuvers are part of an attempt to resurrect the Nazi campaign of Gleichschaltung in the modern era. Schools at all levels are to be turned into centers of political and religious indoctrination accompanied by an attack on science and the purging of all thought that does not serve the aims of US imperialism.

The changes at Texas A&M involve a perverse inversion of the universitys Civil Rights Protection and Compliance policy, which is now to be used to prohibit academic courses teaching race or gender ideology, unless the course and the relevant course materials are approved in advance by the member CEO or designeethat is, the president of the college must now sign off ahead of time on any course content related to race or gender.

In respect to Academic Freedom, Responsibility and Tenure, the existing stipulation that professors should not introduce a controversial matter that has no relation to the classroom subject is tightened to will not. Nor shall instructors, teach material that is inconsistent with the approved syllabus for the course, the policy states.

The board passed the policy after tweaking the wording so that faculty are prohibited from advocating, rather than teaching, gender and race ideology. This has done little to allay anxiety among faculty, who remain unsure what constitutes advocacy, how it will be decided what qualifies as race or gender ideology, and what repercussions there will be for violations.

If a sociology professor explains, for instance, that gender norms shift across place, time and cultures, or a historian points out that racist tropes were used by the US government during the Spanish-American war, and these faculty then grade students on whether or not they understood this content, will they be accused of advocacy when they were simply teaching scientific facts and historical truths?

In a November 10 article, the Texas Tribune reported that faculty were not consulted on the new policy. The article quotes Robert Shilby, special counsel for campus advocacy at the Foundation for Individual Rights and Expression, who explained that the proposal would invite unlawful censorship, chill academic freedom, and undermine the core purpose of a university. Hiring professors with PhDs is meaningless if administrators are the ones deciding what gets taught  Faculty will start asking not, Is this accurate? but Will this get me in trouble?

The Texas A&M ban not only places course instructors in an impossible position as they try to avoid the ideologically impure, it also threatens entire areas of study, including subjects like Black history, Native American studies, and many other fields and sub-fields. The universitys gender studies minor was threatened with elimination last November.

The universitys attack on racial and gender ideology follows the firing of A&M professor Melissa McCoul for discussing gender in a class on childrens literature, precipitating the forced resignation of university president Mark A. Welsh III in September. Far-right Texas state legislators and Governor Gregg Abbot demanded that he go.

It also takes place little over a month after Texas State University upheld the firing of professor and labor historian Tom Alter over his participation in an online conference for socialism that bore no relation to his campus job responsibilities.

Texas is only the spearhead of a nationwide assault on academic freedom being carried out by the Trump administration in collaboration with state governments. The real target of all these efforts is the working class.

The Republican Party is currently taking aim at racial and gender ideology, advancing its assault on free speech by making use of the hostility many feel towards the toxic and dishonest claims of identity politics. For decades, academia, sections of the media and the Democratic Party have sought to recast American society and history as little more than an endless tale of racial, gender and sexual oppression, while obscuring the fundamental division: class.

This has rendered the universities vulnerable to the current right-wing assault, as people of all backgrounds become frustrated with conceptions that blame human suffering not on capitalist exploiters but, allegedly, universally privileged whites, men, heterosexuals, etc., no matter how poor and miserable they are. The quality of contemporary studies of race, gender, ethnicity and other dimensions of identitylegitimate areas of researchhas for years declined dramatically as a result of this unscientific approach.

However, the intent of the far rights attack on racial and gender ideology is to ban all critical speech, and even thought, about the class divide in society. They seek to use the attack on racial and gender ideology as a springboard to strangle opposition to capitalism and class exploitation.

In October, Department of Education Secretary Linda McMahon and the White House sent a letter to nine universities, proposing a compact in which institutions of higher education are to exist for the sake of the national interests and priorities of the U.S. government.

Among the demands were prohibiting faculty from speaking about political and social issues; prohibiting transgender women from participating in womens sports; reducing tuition for students in hard science programs which serve military research. It also included limits on the number of foreign students enrolled and a proposed further crackdown on opposition to the genocide in Gaza.

This was followed by the jailing of three Chinese researchers at the University of Michigan on trumped up charges of smuggling biological materials into the country.

The Democrats, far from being in any sense an opposition party, are in fact fully on board with the drive to war and the attack on academic freedom. It was the Biden administration which initiated mass suppression of anti-genocide protests on college campuses, creating a framework which was handed over to the Trump administration, which has in turn resumed and accelerated the process. Despite the massive attacks on schools across the state, the teacher and education worker union locals have proposed no actions whatsoever, mirroring their parent unions nationally.
On Tuesday, Republican Texas Governor Greg Abbott issued a proclamation designating the Council on American-Islamic Relations (CAIR) and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott speaks in the Senate Chamber at the Texas Capitol in Austin, Texas, Friday, Aug. 22, 2025. [AP Photo/Eric Gay]

The action, which is politically and legally dubious, fits directly within the far-right and xenophobic drive that has defined Abbotts administration and the trajectory of the Republican Party nationally during the second term of Donald Trump as US President.

Abbotts official statement describes the Muslim Brotherhood as a group that supports organizations, including Hamas, that conduct terrorism in various countries, noting that a series of countries have already imposed restrictions on their local Muslim Brotherhood branches.

Regarding CAIR, Abbotts proclamation calls it a successor organization to the Muslim Brotherhood and an effective front group for Hamas in the United States, further accusing CAIR of seeking to spread Sharia law in the country by infiltrating public office and other areas of public life.

Abbott maintains in his statement, Today, I designated the Muslim Brotherhood and the Council on American-Islamic Relations as foreign terrorist and transnational criminal organizations, adding that the move will ban both groups from buying or acquiring land in the state and allow the states attorney general to sue to shut down the two groups and potentially impose fines on those involved.

The provocative language and tone of Abbotts proclamation notwithstanding, US states do not have the legal authority to designate organizations as foreign terrorist entities. According to federal law, such authority rests solely with the US Secretary of State, following consultation with the Attorney General and the Secretary of the Treasury.

Abbotts announcement is more about generating an atmosphere of hysteria and inciting anti-Muslim sentiment than about any legitimate action. As CAIRs response states plainly, Greg Abbott is an Israel-First politician who has spent months stoking anti-Muslim hysteria to smear American Muslims critical of the Israeli government ... By defaming a prominent American Muslim institution with debunked conspiracy theories and made-up quotes, Mr. Abbott has once again shown that his top priority is advancing anti-Muslim bigotry, not serving the people of Texas.

While the legality of Abbotts action is dubious under federal law, the threat is clear: Texas will seek to curtail the ability of these and similar organizations to function by threatening their operations, finances and physical presence in the state.

CAIR is the largest Muslim civil rights and advocacy group in the United States, with a stated mission to enhance understanding of Islam, encourage dialogue, protect civil liberties and empower American Muslims. It was founded in 1994 and works both in the courts and broader society to push back against anti-Muslim discrimination, defend free speech, and represent the interests of Muslim Americans facing state harassment, media defamation, or discrimination in employment, education and housing.

CAIR responded forcefully, reiterating its mission as an independent American civil rights organization that has spent 30 years protecting free speech, advancing religious freedom, and promoting justice for people here and abroad. We have consistently condemned all forms of unjust violence, including hate crimes, ethnic cleansing, genocide, and terrorism. In fact, we condemn terrorism so often that ISIS once put a target on our national executive director.

The group further stated, Although we are flattered by Greg Abbotts obsession with our civil rights organization, his publicity stunt masquerading as a proclamation has no basis in fact or law. CAIR promised vigorous legal resistance by threatening to sue the Governor as it has done successfully on three previous occasions.

The Muslim Brotherhood is a global Sunni Islamist organization founded in Egypt in 1928 as a religious, social and political movement. While some governments, including Egypts military regime, the UAE and Saudi Arabia, have designated it a terrorist group, the Muslim Brotherhoods activities in the US are limited and primarily revolve around cultural and religious engagement, student groups and overseas political advocacy. US intelligence and legal authorities have long found no evidence of terrorism links within Brotherhood-related entities in the US.

The Muslim Brotherhood has not issued a distinct public response as of this writing, but global Muslim organizations and their US supporters have condemned the move as part of an intensifying crackdown on Muslim civil society organizations.

Civil rights groups and advocacy organizations have denounced Abbotts declaration as an escalation of anti-Muslim bigotry. The groups have emphasized that the move threatens basic rights to association and religious freedom, and puts a legal bullseye on Texass Muslim community.

Texas has seen a marked increase in anti-Muslim hate crimes and violence in recent years, consistent with national trends since the rise of Trumpism. The FBI and civil rights groups have reported yearly surges in mosque vandalism, physical assaults and anti-Muslim harassment.

In 2023 and 2024, these attackswhich have included bomb threats, mosque arson, and assaults on students and activistshave often followed incendiary rhetoric from Republican political leaders and policies targeting Muslim immigrants and activists. There is a direct link between state policy and anti-Muslim violence.

Abbotts proclamation must be viewed as part of the reactionary nationalism unleashed throughout both of Trumps terms as president. The campaign to vilify Muslims in the United States reached a high point with Trumps infamous Muslim travel ban in 2017, which criminalized entire populations based on religion and country of origin.

This was combined with the relentless anti-immigrant hysteria mounted by Trump and Abbott. Among the first executive orders issued by Trump for his second term was to declare a national emergency at the southern border and slander immigrants as invaders who are rapists, criminals, murderers, animals and monsters.

Since then, Trump and his backers like Abbott have used family separation, detention in concentration camps, forced deportations and other draconian measures which violate the basic constitutional rights of immigrants and US citizens alike.

Abbott has functioned as Trumps attack dog in Texas, willing to defy federal law, target civil rights groups, and assist in the mobilization of police and National Guard troops as part of the ongoing establishment of an authoritarian regime in the US.

Greg Abbotts anti-Muslim proclamation, while likely unenforceable from a legal standpoint, serves as an encouragement to far-right and fascist forces in Texas and nationwide. In the face of such attacks, the working class must unite across national, religious and ethnic lines to defend democratic rights and oppose all forms of bigotry and repression.
Postal workers, come forward with descriptions of the conditions at your plant by filling out the form below. All submissions will be kept anonymous.

Palmetto, Georgia postal worker Russell Scruggs Jr. [Photo: Scruggs family]

On Saturday, November 15, just one week after Nick Ackers death in Detroit, another postal worker died at the Palmetto, Georgia USPS Processing & Distribution Center. Workers reported to the World Socialist Web Site that Russell Scruggs, Jr. died inside the facility after falling and hitting his head and that the lack of cell phone service inside the plant prevented workers from being able to contact emergency services in time.

Russells coworkers are coming forward and speaking out about dangerous conditions and a toxic environment inside the plant. Their names have been changed to protect them from retaliation.

Mary said, The only thing management cares about is moving the mail. They have no regard to employee safety at all and it shows. There is a new plant manager and no one other than management has officially met him, hes not personable and hes well aware of these issues and has done nothing to obliterate the issues.

I watched that young man while he was under the machine on the floor and I look at the so-called supervisors and managerial staff around him and I was disgusted at the lack of empathy, compassion and their will to do the bare minimum which was check for a pulse, stop the bleeding, call 911, ask if anyone standing around was CPR qualified.

No phone service for workers

Danielle contacted the WSWS after she read about her coworker Russells death. She confirmed that employees phones do not work. We believe they have a firewall on. You have no signal in the building at all. Your phone goes into SOS. So in order to get a signal, you have to walk to the front of the building, which is up through the entrance, and then you maybe can pick up some service then, or you have to go out the back door to the dock outside, she said.

Another employee, Jess, also confirmed this. There have been many emergencies and due to the lack of cell phone service there is no way to reach outside without walking nearly 10 minutes from the back of the building. The time clock to the door is about 100 yards. Ive been with USPS nearly 10 years and all of our other plants there are no cells blocked, only in this building.

More than anything phone service is needed. We shouldnt have to run outside to check if our children are okay. Last year a couple there lost their daughter in a car accident. There was no way to reach them. Someone had to drive to the location to inform them both. Someones house burned down, same situation, Jess added.

Danielle described how workers try to use the facilitys WiFi to access their phones, but that management will change the WiFi code to prevent them from using it because it slows down the machines and they want to keep those machines running all the time. She said around six months ago someone started a petition to get the building updated to allow phone service for employees, but nothing ever came of it. She even tried to use a hotspot that she brought from home with no success.

Theres no weather radio in that building. If Im at home and theyre reporting bad weather is gonna come... I just dont go to work, because you dont know whats going on outside once youre in there. Theres no siren, no alerts, even Amber Alerts dont come through on your phone. You dont know if a tornado has touched down or theyre telling you to take cover. Even people in jail got cellphones and know whats going on. And my understanding, its all because the equipment they use to scan the mail is run on Wi-Fi. Why cant they just have two Wi-Fi connections then? she asked.

Workplace deaths as a regular occurrence

When somebody dies, they dont even announce it. Unless someone knew them personally, maybe somebody that worked with them will make a flyer at home on their own and post it. The day [Eric Smith a 59-year-old technician] died in the break room [in June 2025] it was like, Back to work, as normal, Danielle said.

She also said workers heard that after Sharon Barnes died last summer inside the facility, the family was not alerted because there was no emergency contact on file for her. She said Barnes family found out when one of Barnes family members who happens to work at the facility reported in for his shift.

When I saw this article come across my phone about Russell today I felt very bad, and especially when they say they let that guy lay there ... I can see them doing nothing, and the thing is, that couldve been me, that couldve been any of us. So I had to say something about this when I heard what had happened to Russell in there.

I can imagine since I saw when the man died in the break room, how long it took the ambulance to come in there, how long it took for them to call. Its just sad. And I guarantee you management was just saying, Go back to work. Go back to work. Go back to work. Supposedly there are cameras in there so I hope that they find out what happened to him. For the workers themselves, it is not a safe environment.

She also said that at least two employees recently committed suicide off-site, one of which was confirmed by Jess. They dont offer any type of grief counseling. They dont do nothing. Theyre just back to work, she said.

Nick Ackers coworkers also reported that grief counseling services were never made available to them, and that those who attempted to take a day off to attend his funeral were essentially punished with a write-up for being gone over two hours.

No emergency protocols, no safety teams

Danielle told the WSWS that she signed herself up to join a safety team on two separate occasions but never heard back from anyone, after she witnessed the death of Eric Smith.

The working conditions in this building are horrible, Danielle said. This building is huge. Theres no defibrillators, theres no zone with emergency phones, theyre supposed to provide water and stuff but they dont. We do not have a nurse room, like a place you can go if youre not feeling good, where somebody can check your blood pressure. This place is a danger zone. They dont take safety serious at this building. They dont train their managers. Theres no professionalism. I think its the post offices job to provide us with a safe working environment, and a lot of times, I can promise you, I do not feel safe.

She said that the lacks of emergency protocol means delays in providing emergency services. I witnessed when the ambulance came [for Eric Smith]. They went all the way around to the back of the building in the wrong location so these are minutes wasted. These people are not trained to handle emergencies. They call 911 but then why would you not have your security people at the entrance directing the ambulance on where to go? The fire department dont know where to go either. We had a fire in the building, a piece of equipment caught fire, and they dont even know what area to go to because we need to have someone thats alerting people on where the emergency is.

Toxic workplace environment

Jess said, We really need more attention. The guy that passed away Friday [Russell] was a MHA, a non-career [second tier] position. Similar to PSEs [Postal Support Employees], CCAs [City Carrier Assistants] and RCAs [Rural Carrier Assistants], they are all treated really bad by management. Ive seen many PSEs over the years get yelled at or forced to work.

Danielle said that there is physical, mental and verbal abuse from higher-ups toward workers. You have managers and supervisors wanting to fight employees. Like, following them out of the building, harassing employees. Its just not a good work environment. There was a fight there recently, then the next day the postal security was there checking everybodys bags. You dont know whos gonna go to their car and get a gun with all these fights breaking out.

Danielle said she knew one woman who quit after being disciplined for going outside to call her young children to make sure they arrived home safely from school. Now that they got a title of supervisor or whatever, some of these people think they can talk to you any type of way. They cuss at you, harass you. Its just crazy. Its all types of misconduct that I consider very unprofessional.

She said the building recently lost power and employees sat outside in the parking lot for hours waiting to come into work, and that management refused to send workers home.

Cover-ups by management

Jess told the WSWS that while the facility has gotten some negative attention in the local press, When the news or anyone else comes we clean up and make everything presentable then after those folks leave its back to the same old working conditions. We are unable to bid out of the building, leaving everyone stuck in Palmetto after being forced here.

Danielle said, If they know somebody is coming, theyll load all the mail up on a truck and just move it to another location. So when people come in to inspect to see whats really going on it will look like everything is fine.

She described one of the big problems in the facility currently. The VA [Veterans Affairs, the federal agency which provides healthcare for ex-military] sends out their medication in these containers in a plastic bag, but the plastic bag doesnt lay flat, so they get rejected. We are like 10 reject bins deep with just nothing but medications in it, because somebody have to manually go pick up this bag and see what ZIP code it is to put it in the right container. She also said that workers have accused management and supervisors of stealing cash, gift cards and checks out of the mail before it comes to the sorters and handlers.

Workers are coming forward and are not allowing Russells death to be swept under the rug, along with the other postal workers who have lost their lives in the Palmetto facility.

Over the summer, the USPS Workers Rank-and-File Committee launched an inquiry into working conditions, to expose conditions at USPS to the workers of the world and to arm postal workers with crucial information which they need to organize a fight.

We urge workers to join the committee and submit information about conditions in your facility. Fill out the form below to get in touch.
While the Berlin state government, a coalition of the Christian Democrats (CDU) and Social Democrats (SPD), plans to tighten the citys police and domestic intelligence laws, accusations have emerged of questionable public funding practices in the cultural sector. The CDU-led state culture ministry is said to have awarded large sums to certain party-aligned projects, favouring Zionist lobby organisations.

CDU politician Christian Goiny [Photo by rbb]

The funds are said to have been allocated at the personal request of CDU state politicians Christian Goiny and Dirk Stettner. Responsibility for these free-hand funding decisions lies with former culture senator (state minister) Joe Chialo (CDU), who held the post until early May, and his successor, the non-partisan but CDU-aligned Sarah Wedl-Wilson.

The Greens and the Left Party now accuse the CDU and the state government of embezzling public funds and are angrily calling for a parliamentary inquiry. Green Party leaders Bettina Jarasch and Werner Graf criticised the purely party-political allocation of public resources, while several Left Party spokespeople such as Manuela Schmidt and Anne Helm complained that the Culture Senate (state ministry) was distributing funds according to the CDUs whims and in a feudal manner. They demanded immediate clarification and consequences.

However, the scandal goes far beyond allegations of cronyism: as it turns out, the Senates cultural budget has been used to finance the most despicable war propaganda.

One example is the exhibition We Will Dance Again, devoted to the attack on the Nova music festival in Israel on October 7, 2023. High-ranking CDU politiciansBerlins Mayor Kai Wegner, Minister of State for Culture Wolfram Weimer and Federal Education Minister Karin Prienacted as patrons.

At the exhibition, the Israeli fascist and settler Elkana Federman was celebrated as a hero of October 7. Federman is a member of the far-right group Tzav 9, which has been sanctioned by both the EU and the United States for serious human rights violations.

On October 7, 2025, Bundestag (federal parliament) President Julia Klockner (CDU) personally opened the exhibition. Even the SPD-aligned weekly Die Zeit cautiously remarked that the evening of the second anniversary of the Gaza war might have been an occasion to also commemorate the civilian victims in Gaza.

While public funds flow into Zionist projects and are used for war propaganda under the false label of combating antisemitism, the Berlin Senate (state executive) is simultaneously hacking away at education and culture, which are quite literally being cut to pieces.

This year alone, the Senate has slashed 130 million from the total culture budget. Severe cuts have also been made to the healthcare sector and public infrastructure, all justified with the claim that there is no money.

For war propaganda, beefing up the police and surveillance, however, there is more than enough money! This is the governments response to the growing popular opposition to Israels genocide of Palestinians, ensuring that defending the Zionist regime remains a matter of German state policy.

Two years agoreacting to October 7, 2023the Berlin state government created a 20 million special budget for 20242025, which it cynically described as funding projects against antisemitism and to promote interreligious dialogue.

Amidst the slashing of other budgets, the Left Party and the Greens only criticised the implementation of the special funding. But both parties are fully aligned with the state government when it comes to defending German state policy, which means unconditional support for the state of Israel, the Netanyahu government and its genocide of the Palestinians.

There were apparently no clear rules at all for the allocation of funds from this special budget. In May 2024, the two Green Party politicians Sebastian Walter (budget spokesperson) and Susanna Kahlefeld (religion policy spokesperson) expressed outrage that not a single euro has gone to projects against antisemitism in the previous six months.

In 2025, under pressure from the CDU state parliamentary group, the special budget was topped up with an additional 3.4 million funding package for projects of special political significance. The 18 selected organisations that benefited were handpicked by CDU politicians Goiny and Stettner, and by September 2025 were able to access most of the total, roughly 2.65 million.

The single highest amount750,000went to First Music Production GmbH & Co. KG for the already mentioned We Will Dance Again (The Nova Exhibition). In total, 1.383 million was approvedby far the largest individual allocation from this fund.

A prominent face of the exhibition is Zionist activist Dr. Melody Sucharewicz, who served as host of the exhibition and organiser of the associated commemorative event. But who is Dr Sucharewicz?

The Israeli consultant on political communication and strategy had already written a hate-filled commentary in the weekly Judische Allgemeine on January 18, 2024, denouncing critics of Netanyahus policies (and indirectly the judges of the International Court of Justice) as useful idiots of Hamas and praising the Israeli military in grotesque terms. In a March commentary in the same newspaper, Sucharewicz smeared UN rapporteur Francesca Albanese as a rabid antisemite. It is beyond doubt that Sucharewicz is being promoted precisely because of her aggressive defence and support of Israel.

CDU MP Goiny claimed on Facebook that, as a parliamentarian, he had the right to make such decisions. He is now under investigation by the public prosecutors office on suspicion of embezzlement of public funds.

Responding on Facebook to the accusations by the Left Party and the Greens that proper budgetary rules and oversight had been suspended, Goiny claimed that these were attempts to hinder the fight against antisemitismnot only from the Left Party and Greens, but also within the administration. This statement is doubly repugnant.

For Goiny, the fight against antisemitism is synonymous with the fight against any criticism of Israel and of German support for the genocide in Gaza. And this position is supported by every party represented in the Berlin House of Representatives (state assembly). Since October 7, they have responded to the mass protests against the genocide of Palestinians by slandering them as antisemitic.

In doing so, they endorse and justify the brutal arrest of activists and demonstrators and administrative and police intimidation of Arab and Palestinian pupils and students, as well as bans, searches and surveillance of pro-Palestine activists, and much more.

This also applies to the Left Party, which from 2016 to 2023 held the culture portfolio in the state government under Klaus Lederer. Even then, Lederer turned the concept of antisemitism into a weapon against critics of Israels murderous policies.

In January 2024, the anti-discrimination clause was introduced, stating that the Cultural Senates funding must not benefit organisations classified as extremist and/or terrorist. Since then, critics, pro-Palestinian activists, and artists have been systematically silenced andwhere possiblefinancially destroyed, as in the case of the former Oyoun cultural centre. The Left Party has been an important pillar of the state in this process.

Left Party cultural policy spokesperson Manuela Schmidt emphasised the partys agreement with the CDU on this issue. Responding to Goinys accusation that the Left Party and Greens were blocking antisemitic struggles, Schmidt wrote on the Left Partys website: It was and is important and right that the state of Berlin support projects against antisemitism with millions in additional funding. After October 7, 2023, this was exactly the signal that was needed to show that Never Again is Now! must find its expression in political action.

To this day, the Israeli government continues its genocidealready having killed well over 100,000 Palestinians, many of them childrenin both the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. But none of this has altered the Left Partys position. Its occasional lip service to Palestinian suffering is little more than a half-hearted attempt to steer growing public opposition into harmless channels.

The Berlin Left Partys state conference last weekend once again made this clear. The party leadership, which claims to oppose antisemitism and anti-Muslim racism, refused to take a clear stand against the crimes of the Israeli government or the suppression of pro-Palestinian opposition.

The pro-Palestinian Leftorganised in the State Working Group for Palestinian Solidarityhad put forward its own entirely toothless demands beforehand. They called for clearly designating the Gaza conflict as genocide and expressing solidarity with the pro-Palestinian BDS movement (Boycott, Divest, Sanction). They then withdrew these demands at the conference, with their best-known representative, Ellen Brombacher, justifying this by citing the need for party unity above doctrinal purity on the Middle East question.

The working class must not leave the fight against genocide and war to the Left Party. Wherever it exercises government responsibility, it supports or organises cuts in every socially significant area and endorses the rearmament and war plans of the federal government.
Regis Labeaume (left) with Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Quebec Premier Jean Charest in 2012 [Photo: Wikipedia]

The Montreal daily La Presse recently published an op-ed by former Quebec City Mayor Regis Labeaume criticizing certain aspects of the foul campaign that the provinces national-autonomist (Quebec First) Coalition Avenir Quebec (CAQ) government has waged against immigrants and religious minorities.

However, Labeaumes main target was the Parti Quebecois (PQ), Quebecs main pro-independence party. For years, the PQ has competed with the CAQ in making strident chauvinist appeals scapegoating immigrants for the housing crisis and collapse of public services and accusing religious minorities, especially Muslims, of threatening Quebec values.

Labeaume is a Quebec sovereignist who sought to contest a Quebec City riding under the PQ banner in the 1998 provincial election. Before serving as mayor of Quebecs second-largest city from 2007 to 2021, he was a CEO in the mining industry and a corporate administrator and consultant.

Entitled No, we will not hate immigrants and Muslims, his La Presse op-ed reflects the fears of some sections of big business that overly restrictive immigration policies could reduce access to cheap labor and slow Quebecs economic growth. It was also a warning to PQ leader Paul St-Pierre Plamondon that his virulent anti-immigrant rhetoric and calls for further discriminatory measures against religious minorities could exacerbate social tensions and harm the cause of Quebec independence by discrediting its already badly tattered progressive facade.

The fact that a right-wing nationalist politician like Labeaume felt compelled to openly criticize the PQs Quebec chauvinism highlights the complicit silence of the Quebec left and its main political representative, Quebec Solidaire (QS).

Since the election of St-Pierre Plamondon as party leader in October 2020, the PQ has adopted an ultra-nationalist policy. Firmly positioned to the right of the big business CAQ government, the PQ attacks immigrants and Muslims in venomous language and accuses them of being responsible for all manner of social and economic ills.

In a Quebec version of the far-right Great Replacement conspiracy theory, the PQ portrays supposedly excessive immigration as an existential threat to the Quebec nation. And it promises to reduce it drastically by adopting policies inspired by the European Unions Fortress Europe, under which thousands of desperate refugee claimants die every year, because they drowned or were murdered by brutal border police.

As the Trump administration in the United States demonstrates, this unbridled anti-immigrant chauvinism is the spearhead of political reaction. Used by the ruling class to justify the massive expansion of the repressive powers of the state, an explosion of militarism, and an all-out offensive on democratic rights, it paves the way for dictatorship.

Quebec Solidaire occasionally criticizes the crudest aspects of the PQ and CAQs xenophobic agitation. However, as a party representing privileged layers of the middle class, QS cannot and will not expose the fundamental class interests underlying the ruling classs turn to Quebec chauvinism as an ideological weapon to divide the working class and impose its pro-austerity, pro-war agenda.

QS is especially conciliatory and friendly towards the PQ, whose reactionary perspective of creating an independent capitalist Republique du Quebec it shares. QS legitimizes the PQs chauvinist rhetoric and agitation by fraudulently claiming that St-Pierre Plamondons party is not intolerant. and camouflages the rise of the far right within the Quebec sovereignist movement by declaring that the debate over immigration and discriminatory laws attacking religious minorities is not far right, but a legitimate, healthy and peaceful discussion. It vehemently denies the increasingly obvious parallels between the PQ leader and far-right figures such as Marine Le Pen and Donald Trump.

QS itself proposes a reduction in immigration thresholds and accepts, to use its own words, in part the fraudulent claims trumpeted by the Quebec chauvinist right and far-right that immigrants are responsible for the housing crisis and a myriad of other social problems.

QS did not officially respond to Labeaumes criticism. Its parliamentary leader and chief spokesperson, Ruba Ghazal, shared his article on her X account as a warning against the identity drift of the right, while carefully avoiding to mention that the separatist party with which QS is allied was its main target.

This omission is all the more remarkable given that Labeaumewho was mayor at the time of the mass shooting perpetrated on January 29, 2017, at the Grand Mosque of Quebec City by the young Canadian fascist Alexandre Bissonnettespecifically warned the PQ that its strategy is totally irresponsible and dangerous for social cohesion, and will cause damage for a long time to come.

To this the PQ replied that it will continue to engage in inflammatory rhetoric regardless of the level of demonization it will be subjected to.

St-Pierre Plamondons claim in response to Lebeaume that it is the PQ with its incessant attacks on immigrants and Muslims that is promoting social peace is more than a hollow rejoinder. It is meant to cast those defending immigrants and minority rights as acting in defiance of the will of the majority, and will be used to blame the victims if and when the Quebec chauvinist agitation next results in violence. Significantly, when anti-immigrant riots erupted in Britain in the summer of 2024, Mathieu Bock-Cote, the most prominent far-right Quebec independentiste ideologue, placed the blame squarely on the left and the establishment for ignoring the supposed sentiments of the nationalist majority.

Quebec Solidaire is clearly not interested in pointing out the danger of fascist violence associated with the xenophobic hysteria displayed by its PQ ally, for in the final analysis, Quebec Solidaire is the left flank of capitalist politics in Quebec. Its role is to keep social opposition confined within electoral politics and futile attempts to pressure the capitalist establishment, and to provide political cover for the PQ as it turns to more extreme forms of Quebec chauvinism and national-exclusivism.

Returning to Labeaumes column, it reflects the viewpoint of a faction of the independence movement which, as expressed by former Quebec Premier Lucien Bouchard in an interview with Radio-Canada, opposes holding a third referendum on Quebec independence in the short term, because it considers the current political context unfavourable. Labeaume voices the fears of sections of the sovereigntist movement that the PQs chauvinist, far-right turn could harm the independence cause by exposing the fiction that it has any democratic, let alone progressive, content.

At the same time, the former Quebec City mayor speaks for sections of big business that view the drastic reduction in immigration levelsa policy shared by all levels of government in Canadaas undermining economic growth and a threat to their right to exploit immigrant workers for juicy profits.

Anti-immigrant chauvinism is not limited to the Quebec elite. Under pressure from the dominant faction of the Canadian ruling class, Ottawa has moved since 2023 to massively reduce the number of new arrivals and temporary residents in Canada. The federal Liberal government of former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau amended the reactionary Safe Third Country Agreement between the United States and Canada to prevent migrants persecuted by the Trump administration and its immigration Gestapo, ICE, from finding refuge in Canada. The Carney Liberal government recently introduced Bill C-12, which brutally attacks the rights of refugees, a particularly vulnerable group of immigrants.

Like his brutal austerity measures and massive increase in military spending, Carney justifies his clampdown on immigrants by citing the supposed need for national unity Canada Strongto fight Trump, his tariffs, and his threats to annex Canada.

Canadian nationalism, like its Quebec counterpart, is an ideological tool to divide French-speaking, English-speaking, and immigrant workers in Canada and across North America, and to strengthen the capitalist elites political grip over the working class. Workers in Canada, wherever they live and whatever their origins, must oppose the orgy of anti-immigrant chauvinism coming from all factions of the ruling elite and unite their struggles in a mass movement against capitalism, which is the cause of mounting social inequality and economic insecurity, fascism and imperialist war.
The Socialist Equality Party (SEP) and the Plantation Workers Action Committee (PWAC) in Sri Lanka will hold a public meeting on November 30 in Maskeliya, in the central plantation district, to discuss the tragic death of Krishnan Vijayakumar, who was killed while working at the Maussakelle tea factory in the central hill country.

Vijayakumar, 49, was killed instantly on November 5 when he was pulled into the tea-leaf rolling machine he was operating. The post-mortem report states that he died from blunt force trauma, causing injuries to the neck, chest, and upper limbs.

Vijayakumar fell victim to this entirely preventable tragedy because the mandatory safety guards on the rolling machine had been removed or were never installed. Fellow workers are unequivocal: Had the safety guards been in place, he would not have been killed.

The Maussakelle factory belongs to Maskeliya Plantations, part of the Richard Peiris Company (ARPICO), one of Sri Lankas largest conglomerates. For years, the factory administration knowingly compelled Vijayakumar and other workers to operate this hazardous machine, fully aware of its dangerous condition. The administration ignored every complaint and refused to take even the most basic corrective measures.

Such disastersstemming directly from the deliberate gutting of safety standards to cut costs and boost corporate profitsare increasing rapidly in Sri Lanka and internationally. Vijayakumars death is the latest example of the deadly conditions prevailing in plantations and other workplaces.

Just three days before Vijayakumars death, on November 2, an explosion at the Kiriporuwa Estate rubber-processing plant in Yatiyantota, 75 kilometres east of Colombo, injured 25-year-old Rajinikanth, who died shortly afterward.

In August, two workers were killed in separate industrial accidents at the Colombo Ports International Container Terminal and at a factory in Makola, Sapugaskanda, a suburb of Colombo.

These are not merely industrial accidents but industrial murdersthe direct result of the profit-driven assault on essential safety precautions by the capitalist class.

To defend their lives and advance the struggle for jobs, wages, and decent working conditions, the SEP and the PWAC call on workers to establish rank-and-file action committees in every factory, estate, and workplacecompletely independent of the pro-company trade unions.

These committees must halt production in unsafe conditions, demand full disclosure of safety data, and fight to hold all those responsible for deaths and injuries criminally accountable.

The decisive question in this struggle is the international unity of the working class. The International Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees seeks to mobilise workers globally in the fight against capitalism and for socialism.

The SEP and the PWAC urge all workers, youth, and others to attend this important meeting and participate in the discussion.

Date: Sunday, November 30, 2025

Time: 2:00 p.m.  5:00 p.m.

Venue: PMD Hall, Upcot Road, Maskeliya
Workers and residents in Cobar, New South Wales, have spoken to the World Socialist Web Site last week about the explosion at the Endeavor lead-zinc-silver mine, which killed mining shift supervisor Ambrose Patrick McMullen, 59, and charge-up operator Holly Clarke, 24, and left Mackenzie Stirling, 24, with serious injuries.

Polymetals Resources Ltd, the owner of the mine, rushed to reopen just eight days after the tragedy. Although official investigations have only just begun and little is known about what caused the workers deaths, the company is now proceeding with the resumption of full operations.

Cobar, Far West New South Wales

The reopening is proceeding with the approval of the state safety regulator and tacit endorsement of the mining unions, which have been completely silent on the restarting of operations to date.

Those who spoke to the WSWS described an industry driven by speed-ups, understaffing and cost-cutting, in which workers are pushed to breaking point and serious safety warnings go unheeded. The reopening was described as reckless and motivated entirely by profit, not the protection of workers lives.

All interviews were conducted under strict anonymity, as those speaking are concerned about the repercussions for their jobs and futures in the town.

****

A miner told the WSWS, Something like this shouldnt happen, not at all. He had worked with Clarke, describing her as hard-working, would never quit, and said McMullen was safety-focused and cared a great deal for his boys and his family.

He continued, Weve already had experiences with explosions going off, mines collapsing, issues with machinery, all that sort of stuff before. Its the same incidents that keep happening, but we arent finding a way to stop it. That should not be happening.

The people all the way up, that own the companies, dont care that much. Theyre just money-hungry and not willing to take the correct procedures, fix the equipment, and find a different way to do it.

When asked about conditions in the mining industry and the drive to get ore out of the ground as fast as possible, he described a system built entirely around speed and pressure. [They] are rushing it, and when you rushif theyre pushing youyou make mistakes. Especially the jumbo [drill] operators, and charge-ups are really under pressure too. Shift bosses and the people above ground are always on them, telling them, Get it done, get it done, and if you dont get it done, youre in trouble. When youre rushed by important people, youre going to mess up.

Asked about the rapid restart of operations, he replied, They should take time and actually fix whats gone onfind out whats happened and make sure it doesnt happen again. But you already know thats not going to happen. Money hungry.

He stressed that these problems were nationwide, Its all over Australia. All mines have issues with equipment and sometimes they just dont want to fix it. When the machines faulty it doesnt do the job properly and that can cause more injuries.

The miner described the punishing conditions underground, shifts of about 12 hours, with charge-up crews often forced to stay back to finish the face. Ive had experiences where Ive had to work straight through crib [meal breaks]. Thats illegal, youre meant to have an hour break. But you just do it because thats what youre being told. You dont really have a say.

Labour-hire contractors, he said, are kept in a constant state of insecurity, Throughout the six months they can let you go at any point. If you get to the end of the six months and the mines like, I dont want this guy, thats it. But if youre already with the company, they cant do that, its unfair dismissal.

He also denounced the unions, A lot of the unions screw people over as well, they dont do their job properly. Even if the company is doing the wrong thing, the union will just say, Nah, its fine, go on.

When asked about the WSWS call for workers to form a rank-and-file safety committee, independent of management and the unions, to conduct their own investigation, he responded firmly, I agree. The workers know what goes on, they know what actually happens undergroundespecially those whove worked underground for 40-plus years.

He concluded, I dont know much about socialism, but it sounds much better than capitalism.

A miner, who has worked at different mines in the area, reported that injuries are common. He himself had been injured at work and spoke about the difficulty of getting workers compensation. He said that he isnt in a union and doesnt know of them, he didnt think a lot of his coworkers were in one.

He said, If you want to know the result of an investigation you have to take them [the company] to court, and that they dont want workers to know the results of their investigations.

He also spoke about living conditions in Cobar, that his rental costs were more than $400 per week for a place that is falling down and that the cost of living is going up for basic necessities.

A woman whose husband works in the mines agreed there should have been a full investigation before workers went back and they should be fairly compensated while this is underway because its not their fault that this happened.

She said that Holly was a lovely girl, and Ambrose was known for his experience and safety-consciousness. She said that it would be terrifying for workers going back to the same job without an investigation completed.

Another woman whose husband is a retired miner referred to the death of Mark Brilley who was killed at Peak Gold Mine after being exposed to extreme heat and diesel exhaust in 2017. He should never have been allowed to go in there, under such conditions, she said, adding that she has heard many other stories of workers being told to work under unsafe conditions.

A mine worker with more than 40 years experience, who had worked with McMullen, described him as an expert on blasting, who was safety-conscious and knew exactly what he was doing.

He spoke about the profound changes that have taken place since he began in the industry, noting that shifts moved from 8 hours to 12 in the 1980s. That was the best time of mining because you learnt more, he said, adding, its more theory-based training now than practical training. You get a bit of paper saying youve read and understood, but that doesnt mean you know what youre doing.

He explained that the change had occurred because of the shortage of people in the industry. They had to move people through to build the crews up and get them into the workforce. That was probably the quickest way they could do it  without having that one-on-one training, mentor sort of thing.

In an earlier period, he said, You cut the ground the way the ground had to be cut, so you had less ground support to do. When you fired it, you drilled it through a certain pattern so it came off smoothly and the blast didnt break out into the walls. You didnt have to reinforce them as much. Its called smooth wall finish mining.

Thats not how they operate today. Those things have been lost over the years. Everybody wants to get in there faster, go a bit quicker and drop holes out, and that way the walls get knocked around a bit more. The ground conditions get knocked around, and then youve got to do more rehab. He described it as not giving the ground time to settle.

Speaking about safety in mining, he said, all the procedures are written in blood, someones blood. If something works, nobody changes it until it doesnt work.
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US President Donald Trump and Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in the Oval Office of the White House, Tuesday, November 18, 2025, Washington. [AP Photo/Evan Vucci]

US President Donald Trump welcomed Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman to the White House Tuesday, defended the princes bloodstained rule when questioned by reporters about the grisly murder of Saudi dissident and Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, and then hosted a formal dinner in the princes honor, attended by billionaires, corporate executives and Republican politicians.

For four years, bin Salman was unable to visit Europe or North America due to outstanding legal issues stemming from the Khashoggi murder. A team of Saudi assassins, headed by Salmans security chief, seized Khashoggi when he visited the Saudi consulate in Istanbul, Turkey to obtain documents for his marriage to his Turkish fiancee. The journalist was tortured, killed and his body dismembered and disposed of secretly.

During the course of the visit, Trump had an extraordinary exchange with a reporter that exposed the gangsterism and criminality of both governments. When ABC News reporter Mary Bruce raised two pointed questionsasking Trump about possible incriminating evidence in the Epstein files, and bin Salman about the Khashoggi murder and the Saudi governments ties to the 9/11 terrorist attacksTrump erupted in defense of both himself and the prince.

Referring to Khashoggi, he said, Youre mentioning somebody that was extremely controversial. A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about. Whether you liked him or didnt like him, things happen. He continued, defending the prince, He knew nothing about it, and we can leave it at that. You dont have to embarrass our guest by asking a question like that.

Things happen. This statement, about the murder and dismemberment of a political critic, could serve as the motto of Trumps fascist presidency. ICE agents smash car windows and assault citizens. National Guard troops occupy major cities and are prepared for nationwide deployment. Millions are cut off from food stamps, Medicaid, and other vital services. US drones fire missiles at fishing boats, killing nearly 100 people in the Caribbean and eastern Pacific. In Trumps America, all these crimes are dismissed with a shrug: Things happen.

And if he had his fondest wish, the treatment dealt out to Jamal Khashoggi by a Saudi death squad would be applied to Trumps own critics in the United States. After telling a reporter Sunday Quiet, piggy, when she raised a question about Epstein, Trump denounced Mary Bruce for what he called a horrible, insubordinate and just a terrible question, and added, I think the license should be taken away from ABC, because your news is so fake and its so wrong.

As Trump said in his initial welcome to bin Salman, Im very proud of the job hes done. What hes done is incredible in terms of human rights and everything else. This of an absolute ruler whose regime carried out 345 executions last year, a new record high.

The Trumpbin Salman meeting brought together two billionaire rulers perched atop political powder kegs, preparing violent repression as the only means of preserving the outmoded social order they represent. Trump personifies the criminality of the American financial oligarchy, while bin Salman heads a corrupt royal family that monopolizes Saudi Arabias vast oil wealth.

Trump is relying on Saudi investment to bolster his false claims that foreign investment will revive the American economy and create good-paying jobs. At his public meeting with bin Salman, Trump boasted of $600 billion in Saudi investment, which the crown prince promptly inflated to nearly $1 trillion. Like all of Trumps investment claims, these pledges are largely fictional, with no real benefits for the broad mass of the population. In reality, his trade war policies have destroyed jobs and driven up prices, tightening the financial stranglehold on working class families.

This deepening social crisis underlies the repudiation of the Trump administration in the massive No Kings protests, held exactly one month ago, in which 7 million people took to the streets in more than 2,500 cities and towns. This was followed by the Democratic Party victories in the November 4 election, including of self-described democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani as mayor of New York City, despite Trumps fascistic denunciations and threats.

The administration is also facing an escalating political crisis. The White House meeting took place as Congress voted near-unanimously to require the Justice Department to release its files on billionaire sex-trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, once a close associate of Trump. Trump had vehemently opposed the measure, and House Speaker Mike Johnson blocked it for weeks. But just two days after Trump reversed his stance, the bill is now headed to his desk.

Bin Salman has come to the US to buy fighter jets and other weapons to suppress his own population and those of neighboring countries, particularly Yemen, where a Saudi-led war has killed hundreds of thousands and starved millions. He likely calculates that his complicity in the US-Israeli genocide in Gaza has earned him favor in Washington. The arms buildup also targets Iran, seen by Israel, the US and the Saudi monarchy as the principal obstacle to imperialist domination of the Middle East.

Trump is not merely speaking as an individual but as the personification of the American state and the interests of the ruling class it serves. His glorification of the Saudi regimes brutality reflects the violence and criminality of American imperialism itself.

A central aim of the US-backed genocide in Gaza is to entrench US domination over the Middle East and to solidify the alliance between Washington, Tel Aviv, and Riyadh. This is a bipartisan policy. In 2022, the Democratic administration of Joe Bidenwho during his 2020 campaign vowed to make bin Salman a pariahgranted the crown prince sovereign immunity from civil or criminal prosecution in US courts. This came just months after Biden traveled to Riyadh and greeted the murderer with a now-notorious fist bump.

The American oligarchy, represented by both parties, looks with longing upon the absolutism of the Saudi sheikhdoman unrestrained autocracy in which wealth is monopolized by a dynastic elite and political dissent is punishable by death.

The state dinner held on Tuesday night was attended by a whos who of the financial aristocracy , with Elon Musk, the worlds richest man, among the guests. It was Musks first visit to the White House since his much-publicized falling out with Trump during the summer over Trumps failure (in Musks eyes) to cut enough from federal social spending on Medicare, Medicaid and Social Security.

Joining Musk were Stephen Schwarzman of Blackstone; Larry Fink of BlackRock; David Ellison of Paramount/CBS (and son of Oracle billionaire Larry Ellison); Henry Kravis, co-founder of Kohlberg Kravis Roberts (KKR); Apollo Global Management co-founder Joshua Harris, Citigroup CEO Jane Fraser, GM CEO Mary Barra, Ford chairman William Clay Ford Jr., Apple CEO Tim Cook, and Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang. Top executives from Chevron, Qualcomm, Boeing, Cisco, General Dynamics, Pfizer, IBM, Honeywell, Lockheed Martin and many others attended. Only Jeffrey Epsteins demise in 2019in a Manhattan prison cell after his second arrest for sex traffickingkept him off the guest list.

While Trumps son-in-law Jared Kushner, the beneficiary of $2 billion in investment from a fund run by the crown prince, did not attend, his son Don Jr. was present, shortly after signing agreements to build Trump-branded towers in Jeddah and Riyadh, the largest business venture by the Trump Organization in the Saudi kingdom. Trump bristled at a question about the propriety of such business connections during his presidency, claiming he had no involvement in the company, despite remaining its owner.

More will undoubtedly come to light about the sordid deals discussed behind closed doorsdeals whose goals, beyond strengthening the global position of American imperialism against Iran, Russia and China, are to boost the profits of the US arms industry and the Saudi oil monarchy, at the cost of thousands, if not millions, of lives.

The Trumpbin Salman meeting exposes the utterly reactionary character of both regimes: the semi-feudal Saudi monarchy and the corrupt, billionaire-dominated oligarchy in the United Stateseach a historically doomed relic of a social order that must be swept away.
With a market cap of $92.3 billion, General Dynamics Corporation (GD) is a global aerospace and defense leader with a diverse portfolio spanning business aviation, shipbuilding, land combat systems, and advanced technologies. Organized into four segments: Aerospace; Marine Systems; Combat Systems; and Technologies, the company delivers innovative solutions to commercial and defense customers worldwide.

Shares of the Reston, Virginia-based company have outpaced the broader market over the past 52 weeks. GD stock has increased 18.7% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has rallied 13.7%. Moreover, shares of the company have soared 29.7% on a YTD basis, compared to SPXs 13.4% gain.

More News from Barchart

Focusing more closely, shares of the defense contractor have outperformed the Industrial Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLI) 8.2% rise over the past 52 weeks.

www.barchart.com

Shares of General Dynamics rose 2.4% as the company reported better-than-expected Q3 2025 profit of $3.88 per share and revenue of $12.91 billion. This strong performance was highlighted by a 30.3% rise in Aerospace segment revenue and a jump in Gulfstream deliveries to 39 units, along with new aerospace bookings at 1.3 times its billing.

For the fiscal year ending in December 2025, analysts expect GDs EPS to grow 12.8% year-over-year to $15.38. The company's earnings surprise history is promising. It topped the consensus estimates in the last four quarters.

Among the 21 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a Moderate Buy. Thats based on 10 Strong Buy ratings, 10 Holds, and one Strong Sell.

www.barchart.com

On Oct. 28, JPMorgan raised its price target on General Dynamics to $380 and maintained an Overweight rating.

The mean price target of $375.11 represents a 9.8% premium to GDs current price levels. The Street-high price target of $405 suggests a 18.5% potential upside.

On the date of publication, Sohini Mondal did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Striking Libbey Glass workers

After nearly three months on strike, the United Steelworkers International is trying to ram through a sellout contract behind the backs of 650 workers at Libbey Glass in Toledo, Ohio. The USW bureaucracy has scheduled a snap vote for Wednesday, November 18, immediately after short explanation meetings. This is a deliberate effort to suppress debate and stampede workers into accepting a deal that cannot withstand serious scrutiny.

USW District 1 Director Donnie Blatt reportedly bypassed the local union bargaining committee, which considered this offer so rotten that it would not bring it back to the membershipand instead cut a unilateral deal directly with the company. This is not negotiation; it is collusion and open strikebreaking on behalf of Libbeys corporate executives and top shareholders.

Just days before announcing the deal, USW officials were denouncing Libbeys months-long bad faith unwillingness to agree to fair contract. Overnight, a breakthrough has supposedly occurred. The USWs own statement reveals the truth:

We knew we could not just sit back and say nothing, so we met with Libbey in an effort to end this strike.

Not win itend it. Their priority is to shut the strike down on terms acceptable to the company, not to secure what workers need and deserve.

The wage increases: a scam built on poverty pay and sweeping concessions

USW officials boast about a 14.25 percent first-year raise. But workers know the truth: the raise is meaningless when starting wages are an insult. As one Libbey worker put it plainly:



You can make more at gas stations such as Sheetz than you can at starting wages for Libbey.

The wage package is not historic. It is a desperate attempt to dress up poverty pay at a company that cannot attract or retain workers. And even this inadequate wage package comes tied to massive concessions, which the USW has intentionally left out of its bogus highlights.

As workers have noted, the phrase at managements discretion has been inserted into the proposal at least 14 times. This language gives management blanket authority over:

Scheduling

Forced overtime

Layoffs

Hiring

Transfers

Department assignments

Work rules

Discipline

Production standards

This is not a contractit is a blank check for management dictatorship.

As one worker told the World Socialist Web Site, What that does is essentially hands Libbey free rein to what and how they schedule, force overtime, layoff, hire and nearly every aspect of their business.

This is the most significant danger in the entire agreement, even more consequential than the wage percentage. The wage increases are a Trojan horse for total management control, including expanded forced overtime, 12-hour shifts, loss of schedule protections and stripping of seniority rights.

The managements discretion language is paired with a systematic destruction of whatever is left of the grievance system. This will pave the way for relentless speedup, management abuse and the skirting of basic safety procedures that will inevitably lead to more injuries and death. The USW International is not protecting your rightsthey are eliminating them.

Healthcare: Premiums Up, Deductibles Tripled

In its self-serving highlights, the USW only lists weekly premiums, conveniently omitting the full costs. As one worker explained, The premiums listed for healthcare are weekly contributions only. Deductibles are set to triple in most instances.

This is a massive offloading of costs to workers. A raise of a few dollars an hour will evaporate under soaring deductibles, out-of-pocket expenses and specialty drug carve-outs. The Internationals claim that healthcare stays the same except for a few changes is a blatant lie.

Rank-and-file workers have not walked the picket lines for more than three months to accept this garbage. The USW bureaucracy never wanted this strike in the first place. They wrapped up sellout agreements at the other glassmakers and have kept 2,800 O-I workers on the job since the expiration of their contract in March.

But the local leadership knew that rank-and-file workers would not accept the company proposal after seeing the company profit from the massive concessions USW officials handed Libbey during bankruptcy. The USW officials called the strike not to win it but to isolate this fight and starve workers into submission. But the Libbey workers are not patsies and they are going to have their say.

What Must Be Done

The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) urges Libbey workers to:

1. Vote NO on the sellout contract. Reject a deal that imposes poverty wages, soaring healthcare costs, and authoritarian management control.

2. Form a Libbey Rank-and-File Strike Committee. Elected by workersnot the USW bureaucracy. Such a committee must:

Oversee the vote.

Demand full disclosure of the entire contract and side letters.

Organize independent mass meetings.

Establish communication with workers in auto, steel, healthcare, oil, logistics, and other industries.

Break the isolation imposed by the USW bureaucracy.

3. Turn this struggle outward. A NO vote will send a powerful message across the country and the world: Workers will not accept union-backed corporate concessions.

By doing so, Libbey workers will be joining tens of millions of workers across the US who want to fight job cuts, skyrocketing cost-of-living expenses, the murder and maiming of workers in Americas industrial slaughterhouse and the historic attack on the democratic and social rights of the working class being carried out by the Trump administration with the aid of the Democrats.

US companies have already announced 1.1 million job cuts so far this year. The number of layoffs in October were the highest of any month since 2008, during the Great Recession. Twenty-two states, plus Washington, DC, are already in recession. The end of the government shutdown is being followed by the permanent slashing of billions for food stamps, public schools and health care.

At the same time, ten billionaires in the US increased their wealth by $700 billion over the past year. The worlds richest man, Elon Musk, has just been awarded a pay package worth up to $1 trillion.

The corporate and financial oligarchy that rules this country knows that it cannot impoverish and enslave the working class without mass resistance. That is why it is moving to implement a dictatorship. The Gestapo methods now being employed against immigrant workers will be used against strikes and mass demonstrations of workers fighting to defend their jobs and living standards.

Rank-and-file Libbey workers must defeat the USW bureaucracys stab in the back and take the conduct of this struggle into their own hands. Such a rebellion will inspire and win the support of rank-and-file workers at the Jeep and Dana plants, steelworkers at the oil refineries, Cleveland Cliffs and other locations, healthcare workers at ProMedica, Mercy St. Vincent and elsewhere, and thousands of workers and young people looking for a way to fight poverty and threat of dictatorship. The spirit of the 1934 Auto Lite strike and Toledo general strike must be revived by rank-and-file workers taking their future into their own hands.

The International Workers Alliance of Rank-and-File Committees (IWA-RFC) and World Socialist Web Site will give Libbey workers all the assistance they need for this decisive battle. Fill out the form below to get information on building a rank-and-file committee.
Cohealth, a community health network serving vulnerable patients in inner Melbourne, advised patients on November 12, Our doctor, pharmacy and counselling services at 365 Hoddle Street, Collingwood, and doctor and counselling services at Fitzroy and Kensington, will be closing. We understand this may be concerning for you. Ending of General Practitioner (GP) medical services is planned for December 19 this year.

Cohealth Kensington

Substantial opposition erupted when two meetings organised at short notice to oppose the cuts attracted nearly 1,000 people. This groundswell of support for community health reflects growing working class opposition to the attacks on healthcare and public housing by state and federal Labor governments which prioritise tax cuts and other concessions for big business and military spending over social needs.

Cohealths announcement is due to the chronic underfunding of community health by the federal Labor government.

This decision delivers another blow to some of Melbournes poorest residents. The three affected centres are all located within walking distance of public housing estates that the Victorian Labor government intends to demolish44 high-rise towers housing around 10,000 residentsto make way for the private redevelopment of valuable inner-city land.

GP visits at cohealth are free to patients, funded through Medicare. During the May 2025 federal election campaign, Labor Prime Minister Anthony Albanese waving a Medicare card, promised that by 2030, 90 percent of Australians could visit a GP for free. The government pledged to raise the Medicare rebate from $42.85 to $70 per consultationbut only if clinics bulk-billed all patients.

As reported in July by the World Socialist Web Site, the proposed $70 rate remains far below the true cost of a GP visit. Many clinics said they could not operate solely on bulk billing, even at that rate. Cohealths costs are even higher due to the complex, time-intensive care it provides.

Most GP clinics only survive by shortening appointment times and increasing patient throughput. At cohealth, GPs can spend up to 30 minutes with patients, often requiring interpreters and managing multiple complex conditions. Some of its 30 GPs regularly receive referrals from nearby private clinics unable to handle such cases within strict time limits. The federal Labor government has refused to properly fund this level of quality care.

Although cohealth receives funding from federal, state, and local governments, its financial situation remains dire. Official records from last year show revenue of $111 million against expenditure of $119 million.

Cohealth CEO Nicole Bartholomeusz told the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, This decision reflects multiple, complex pressures including decades of underinvestment, aging infrastructure, and a funding model that doesn't match the reality of the need or the type of care that is required

We actually need a different funding model. We have a $4 million gap between what we receive from Medicare and what the cost is to deliver our services. It's been death by a thousand cuts.

By mid-next year, cohealth will also close and sell its deteriorating Collingwood building, which has suffered decades of neglect. The organisation has said it is effectively broke, despite repeated appeals to all levels of government for sustainable funding.

A statement issued by cohealth doctors warned, If these clinics close, the people who have nowhere else to go will truly have nowhere else to go.

Royal Australian College of General Practitioners chair Anita Munoz expressed shock at the decision, stating, When people live with homelessness, severe mental health issues, are refugees or live in other complex social situations, they need wraparound services delivered by people highly trained in those populations.

Cohealth provides free, multidisciplinary, high-quality care at 20 sites across Melbourne and Tasmania. Services include medical, dental, mental health, allied health, pharmacy, drug and alcohol treatment, outreach, and social support for refugees, single parents, domestic violence survivors, homeless people, and others with complex health and social needs.

If GP services end at the three cohealth sites, 12,500 patients will be forced to attempt to find alternative care. Many nearby clinics are full and not accepting new patients, meaning already-overcrowded hospital emergency departmentsunderfunded and understaffedwill bear the overflow. This effectively shifts costs from federally funded Medicare services to state-funded emergency departments (EDs), where many treatments are no longer free.

One cohealth doctor explained that many patients avoid EDs due to traumatic past experiences, including rushed treatment and poor follow-up. Some return to cohealth in worse condition after visiting the ED.

On October 29, the Greens claimed victory when the Victorian parliament passed a $30 million emergency funding bill for cohealth, $4 million to prop up GP and counselling services and $25 million to refurbish the crumbling Collingwood building.

However, if and when the money eventuates, this is merely a stopgap measure. Once the emergency funds run out, cohealth will again face collapse unless Medicare rebates and base funding are increased.

Despite the passing of this bill on October 29, cohealth officially messaged their patients on November 12 advising of the closure plans.

The Age newspaper reported on October 30 that two other community health centres, run by the Better Health Network in Bentleigh and Clarinda, are also facing closure due to rising energy, leasing, and cleaning costs. This points to a broader systemic crisis in community health funding that governments at all levels have failed to address.

At the Fitzroy meeting on October 24, attendance exceeded expectations with over 500 people requiring organisers to relocate to the main town hall. The following day in Kensington, another packed meeting filled a school hall opposite the local cohealth centre.

The WSWS spoke to patients and doctors who attended the meetings and reported on some of the meeting discussion explaining the importance of cohealth and what closure of GP services would mean.

The City of Yarra convened the Fitzroy meeting which was presided over by Mayor Stephen Jolly, ex-member of the Victorian Socialists. Jolly said, The federal and state governments need to step in and if the politicians fail to do that the community has to step in  We will not just roll over if the politicians dont act. With that in mind Im going to hand over to our Federal member for Melbourne Sarah Witty [Labor Party].

Witty offered no firm commitments, merely stating that federal Health Minister Mark Butler would review cohealths operations to determine whether it is right for the government to spend taxpayers money on a model that may not work.

The Kensington meeting was organised by local federal Labor MP Jo Briskey who bemoaned the cohealth cuts but took no responsibility as a member of the government implementing this attack.

In a radio interview, Jolly said, Unfortunately so far the people who have the power to stop this, which is the state and federal governments havent stepped in  Were going to keep putting the blowtorch to the backside of the ALP [Australian Labor Party] state and federally, politically, on the street, in every way, until they intervene and stop these cuts.

Jollys feckless appeals to the very governments that are implementing this assault are intended to keep opposition within the parliamentary framework and peddle the illusion that pressuring Labor can stop these attacks.

This line presents the underfunding of cohealth as a single issue, divorced from Labors broader assault on public healthcare and social spending. In reality, Labor is restricting health funding across the board, under conditions of a breakdown of the public hospitals. It is axing billions of dollars from the National Disability Insurance Scheme, kicking vulnerable disabled people off their supports.

Labors role in the cohealth crisis is not an aberration. It expresses the character of the Labor governments as the unalloyed representatives of big business, determined to make the working class pay for the deepening economic crisis through sweeping austerity measures.

In opposition to fake-left figures such as Jolly and the Greens, the Socialist Equality Party (SEP) insists that the fight to defend public healthcare requires a political struggle against the Labor governments, not plaintive appeals to them.

The SEP is fighting for the establishment of rank-and-file committees of health workers, independent of the Labor-aligned and corporatised unions, to coordinate unified industrial and political action across healthcare, to fight the assault on workers wages and conditions and to secure the right to high-quality healthcare for all.
Just three weeks after two workers were killed and a third injured in an explosion at the Endeavor mine in Cobar, New South Wales (NSW), the company has announced the full resumption of operations at the site.

Polymetals Resources Ltd, which had previously claimed it would gradually reopen in stages, announced yesterday that mining and milling operations have successfully recommenced and that continuous shift work was being reinstated.

Endeavor mine, north of Cobar

The rapid reopening is proceeding although the official investigation has barely begun and no explanation has been provided for the explosion that caused the deaths of Patrick Ambrose McMullen and Holly Clarke and left Mackenzie Stirling seriously injured and traumatised.

The little that has been said by the NSW Resources Regulator, the government agency responsible for mining safety raises more questions than answers.

According to the regulators initial statement, published days after the tragedy, the workers were killed by the unintended initiation of a ballistic disc explosive device they were setting up to clear a blockage in the stope.

This scenario is one that explosives experts and numerous workers familiar with the widely used devices had thought was impossible, due to the multiple failsafes involved with their use.

The reputation of the 59-year-old shift supervisor McMullen as a meticulous and extremely safety-conscious worker with considerable expertise and experience in the use of explosives would tend to point to an equipment malfunction or other systemic fault as the cause of the disaster.

The Resources Regulator, a pro-business entity, clearly has concerns about the ballistic disc explosives. This is underscored by its declaration that it may ban the devices, and its recommendation that mining companies consider alternative methods until the investigation is complete.

Polymetals Executive Chairman David Sproule admitted the company was reopening the mine despite having no idea what happened on October 28 and what must be done to stop it from happening again.

In a press release issued yesterday, Sproule said, We remain focussed on seeking to understand how this accident happened, hoping that any definitive outcome may improve safety in blasting operations on an industry wide basis.

Far from seeking to understand what happened, the company is herding workers back down the mine. Without an understanding of the cause of the explosion and the implementation of appropriate safety measures, miners are being put at risk, not just at Endeavor, but throughout the mining industry.

Polymetals justified the reopening by declaring that, A rigorous review of our handling and use of explosives procedures was completed prior to recommencement of operations. But without knowing what went wrong, the claim to have conducted a rigorous review is meaningless.

The press release points to the companys real financial motives for the rapid reopening. Now that operations have recommenced, the Company will continue to manage working capital, utilising its existing concentrate pre-payment facility Polymetals is in advanced discussions for standby credit facilities to provide further capital if required.

Polymetals is not in a strong financial position. The Endeavor mine is the companys only going concern and it only began continuous production in June, months later than anticipated.

The delays forced the company to secure a $10 million loan through Ocean Partners. By July, the company estimated that it had less than six months of funding left, and had to raise a further $15 million through the issuance of shares.

Polymetals first shipment, of zinc concentrate, was only made in October, and its second, of silver-lead concentratefor which it already accepted a substantial pre-paymenthas now been pushed back from this month to next.

The swift resumption of production at Endeavor is being carried out under significant financial pressure from its creditors and shareholders. It was no accident that the company made its initial reopening announcement on the same day its share price lost 26 percent of its value.

These are the financial considerations motivating Polymetals rush to reopen Endeavor. But workers should not be made to pay for their employers financial troubles or the death of their coworkers by being forced back into a deathtrap.

Workers and their families cannot rely on hope. Lives are at stake. No faith can be placed in the companys supposed rigorous review of explosives handling and use.

Nor can workers trust the Resources Regulator, which is allowing the reopening to go ahead without limitation. Strikingly, the regulator left it up to the company to decide it was safe to resume blasting operations, despite its ongoing investigation and publicly stated concerns about the explosives used.

The mining unions, the Australian Workers Union and the Mining and Energy Union, which have said nothing about the tragedy since their hollow promises in its immediate aftermath to ensure it never happens again, have also given their silent consent to the reopening.

This means Endeavor workers need to take matters into their own hands. A rank-and-file committee should be established to lead a fight to reverse the reopening, until workers can determine for themselves, through an investigation they oversee, that it is safe to return. They must insist that workers are fully compensated throughout this process, so they are not under financial duress to return to a dangerous workplace.

Endeavor workers will find strong support for this fight among their counterparts in other mines, in Cobar and throughout the mining industry, across Australia and globally. As long as it remains unclear what caused the tragedy, miners everywhere could be in danger.

The Socialist Equality Party will provide every possible political assistance. We urge you to contact us today.
Nvidia's valuation stands out as notably high, with a price/sales (P/S) ratio of 28, far above the sector median of 3, signaling a premium stock. Moreover, its price/book (P/B) ratio of 46 also exceeds the sector median of 3. However, the companys growth metrics are extraordinary, with forward revenue growth projected at 68%, dramatically outpacing the sector average of 8%, which helps justify its lofty valuation.

Valued at roughly $4.5 trillion, Nvidia shares have surged 35% year-to-date (YTD) in 2025, reclaiming record highs midyear and in October as AI demand soared. Over the past month, the stock pulled back slightly from late-October peaks, reflecting investor focus on record earnings, robust AI adoption, and strategic partnerships driving long-term growth.

This year, Nvidia expanded aggressively, forging key partnerships in Europe, the UAE, and other global hubs, while securing major chip supply deals. Its full-stack approach, combining chips, systems, and software, powers data centers, gaming, automotive, and industrial AI, building strong relationships with hyperscalers and enterprises. These moves fuel steady demand as AI adoption accelerates worldwide, cementing Nvidia's role as a central tech leader.

Based in California, Nvidia has grown from a small graphics-chip innovator into a global powerhouse in advanced computing. With major operations across Asia, the company now drives AI, cloud computing, and high-performance graphics.

For investors looking to buy NVDA on strength, not fear, heres why this setup matters.

Now, the chip giant is heading into its Nov. 19 quarterly report with rising optimism on Wall Street. Analysts at Wedbush, led by Dan Ives, are urging investors to expect good news, pointing to strong hyperscaler spending, bullish supply-chain checks, and surging demand for Nvidias Blackwell platform. Wedbush believes Nvidias guidance and commentary could act as a powerful year-end catalyst.

AI stocks often swing sharply ahead of major earnings, especially when investors start debating whether the sector is entering bubble territory. Yet even in these volatile moments, a few industry leaders stand apart, companies whose fundamentals and demand trends continue to overpower market noise. Nvidia (NVDA), the undisputed backbone of the AI revolution, is one of them.

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What to Expect From Q3 Earnings

Nvidia is all set to announce the third-quarter 2026 results on Wednesday after the closing bell, and investors will be keen on whether the company can maintain the lead on artificial intelligence computing amid the supply shortages and pressure reemerging in China.

Wall Street has forecast earnings of $1.25 and revenue of $54.83 billion, which is 56% higher than the same period last year. With the growing sales of its Blackwell chips, Nvidia has steered revenues towards the range of approximately $54 billion, with data center sales, which include its products, estimated to be greater than $48 billion. There should be 73.5% gross margins of non-GAAP.

Analysts believe that fourth-quarter guidance will be the driving factor for the stock. In Q4, market forecasts revenue of $61.88 billion, and data center sales are close to $56 billion. The progress on the Blackwell shipment, any additional delays into fiscal 2027, or a glimpse of hyperscaler demand will be monitored closely.

Following the H2O write-down of $4.5 billion in the previous quarter, China is now a swing factor, not to mention the export ban. The post-earnings sentiment will rely on how the management sounds on the geopolitical risks and supply availability.

Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang just announced combined 2025-26 orders of $500 billion, including Blackwell GPUs, next-generation Rubin chips, and networking components. The figure is seen by analysts as a pointer to the fact that 2026 revenues, especially in data centers, might exceed previous expectations by up to $60 billion.

It is still strengthening its relationships with big AI clients, such as Alphabet (GOOG)(GOOGL), Amazon (AMZN), Microsoft (MSFT), and Meta (META), and has invested strategically, such as up to $10 billion in OpenAI equity related to the purchase of GPUs, $5 billion with Intel to enhance interoperability of chips, and a $1 billion investment in Nokia (NOK) to distribute GPUs into telecom machinery.

The available options for Nvidia imply low post-earnings returns. The stock is highly volatile with a high position in the bull markets; thus, it may not be able to push past $200, and call options may go down at a very rapid rate following the outcomes.

What Analysts Say About NVDA Stock

Nvidia has drawn fresh bullish notes ahead of its Nov. 19 Q3 report, with several big firms nudging up price targets and flagging a likely beat and raise quarter. Morgan Stanleys Joseph Moore raised his target to $220, calling for one of Nvidias strongest results yet.

Goldman Sachs lifted its target to $240 and said it expects Nvidia to outpace estimates and deliver upside to guidance.

Oppenheimer moved to a $265 target, keeping an Outperform view and pointing to continued hyperscaler demand and platform strength driving upside.

Wedbush reiterated an Outperform and a $210 target, urging investors to expect good news based on supply-chain checks and Blackwell momentum.

Overall, Nvidia got a Strong Buy rating consensus from all 47 analysts in coverage. The average 12-month price target set by bullish groups is $225, which implies 21% upside potential. Yet the lone Wall Street sell on Nvidia is Jay Goldberg of Seaport Research. He initiated coverage with a Strong Sell rating Street-low $100 target and has warned the AI boom looks like a bubble, citing risks such as TSMC capacity constraints and uncertain hyperscaler spending.

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On the date of publication, Nauman Khan did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Intake management is the process by which procurement teams receive, triage, and manage internal purchase requests from employees and business units. Think of it as the formal request portal or front door of procurement, where anyone in the organization can ask for a purchase, supply need, or contract support, and have that request properly routed and handled.

The good news is that leading organizations have figured this out. They're treating intake management as the strategic capability it actually is. In the following sections, Brex explores what intake management really means, why it matters, and how to build a process that actually works. Read on to discover the specific challenges that broken intake creates, the best practices that fix them, and the technology that makes it all possible, plus a look at where procurement intake is heading and how smart companies are already preparing for what's next.

You can have the best procurement team in the world, but if purchase requests arrive through scattered channels with incomplete information and unclear approval paths, that talent gets wasted. Your strategic sourcing experts become email traffic controllers. Your category managers become form fillers. Your vendor relationship managers become receipt chasers.

The problem is widespread. Procurement teams spend most of their time on tactical activities rather than strategic work. They're drowning in administrative tasks, chasing down approvals, and playing email ping-pong to get basic information. This isn't a talent problem or a motivation problem. It's an intake problem.

This is what happens when organizations lack proper procurement intake management. It's not just about intake; it's a symptom of broader procurement management challenges that ripple through the entire organization. Most companies focus on negotiating better contracts, finding savings, and managing suppliers. But they ignore the messy reality of how purchase requests actually reach the procurement team in the first place.

Imagine this scenario. Your procurement team starts Monday morning with 47 unread emails, a dozen Slack messages about urgent purchases, and three sticky notes from Friday's hallway conversations. Half the requests are missing budget codes. More than a few need information you've already asked for twice. Meanwhile, someone just bought $50,000 worth of software without telling anyone because going through proper channels takes too long.

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The process captures each request, evaluates it for completeness, priority, and policy compliance, then directs it through the appropriate approval and purchasing workflow. This intake stage happens before any sourcing, purchasing, or payment takes place. It's the first step of the entire procurement process.

Most organizations implement this through digital forms or portals where employees submit requests, often with prompts to provide required information. Once submitted, the procurement team or an automated software reviews the details, asks clarifying questions if needed, and determines next steps. The team might decide whether the request needs competitive bidding, additional approvals from legal, IT, or finance, or if it can be fulfilled via an existing contract or catalog.

The top benefits of intake management

Strong intake management is a strategic lever for improving efficiency, compliance, and stakeholder satisfaction. When the intake process runs smoothly, purchasing cycles speed up, and procurement can deliver results faster. Studies show that standardizing and automating intake can decrease cycle times for processing requests, freeing procurement staff for higher-value activities. A well-designed intake approach provides an intuitive experience that encourages employees to use it, increasing adoption of proper procurement channels and reducing off-book purchases.

Faster approvals and turnaround

With structured intake, requests arrive with all required information up front, and rules-based workflows route them to the right approvers automatically. This eliminates back-and-forth emails and bottlenecks. The result is shorter approval times and quicker procurement cycles. Procurement teams spend less time chasing details and more time building vendor relationships or optimizing purchase order management. When a marketing manager needs new software, they fill out one form with all the details, and the workflow automatically sends it to IT, legal, and their department head. No one has to manually forward emails or wonder who needs to sign off on them.

Improved compliance and reduced maverick spend

A good intake process acts as a gatekeeper that ensures purchases follow procurement policy. Employees are guided through the correct buying process, such as using preferred suppliers or getting necessary approvals. This reduces rogue spending outside of procurement's oversight. By capturing all requests in one place, management gains visibility into who is buying what, making it easier to enforce compliance with budgets and contracts. When every purchase flows through the same channel, procurement can spot patterns, such as multiple departments buying similar software, and consolidate for better pricing.

Greater visibility and control

Centralized intake provides real-time insight into all pending and approved requests. Procurement leaders can see trends and plan proactively. This transparency also benefits requesters, who can easily track the status of their request instead of feeling like it disappeared into a black hole. Better visibility means fewer surprises, like last-minute urgent purchases, and more data to manage your spend. Procurement managers can pull up dashboards showing exactly how many requests are in process, where bottlenecks occur, and which categories see the most activity.

Alignment with strategic goals

Structured intake ensures each purchase request is evaluated against business objectives. Procurement can vet requests for necessity and strategic fit. As a result, purchases are more likely to support the company's priorities, whether that means preferring sustainable suppliers or staying within category budgets. This alignment elevates procurement's role as a strategic partner delivering value, not just processing paperwork. When procurement can see all incoming requests, they can guide the organization toward smarter buying decisions that support larger business goals.

Enhanced stakeholder experience

When the intake process is user-friendly and reliable, internal stakeholders get clear guidance on how to request what they need, timely responses, and successful outcomes. Departments trust procurement more, seeing it as a helpful advisor rather than a roadblock. Higher stakeholder satisfaction leads to greater collaboration and earlier engagement with procurement on important needs. Employees actually want to use the process because it works. They submit a request, get updates along the way, and receive what they need when they need it.

Challenges without a proper intake process

Even as the benefits are clear, many organizations struggle with poor intake processes or lack any formal process at all. It's important to recognize these pain points, as they highlight why investing in intake management is needed. Here are the common challenges procurement teams face when intake is ad hoc or inefficient.

Scattered request channels

One major issue is having no single, standard way for employees to submit purchase requests. Some requests come by email, others via messaging apps or hallway conversations. This patchwork makes it hard to track and prioritize work. Important details get lost in email threads, and procurement may overlook or respond late to certain requests. Manual, unstructured intake leads to delays and errors, as there's no consistency to the information collected. A telltale sign of this problem is when procurement staff spend their mornings sorting through various inboxes and chat messages trying to figure out what needs attention first.

Lack of standardization

Because there isn't a uniform intake form, the information provided by requesters varies widely. One request might omit key data like needed-by date or budget code, while another includes unnecessary details. Inconsistent request formats make it difficult to efficiently process approvals. Procurement ends up wasting time going back to the requester for clarification, slowing everything down. This back-and-forth can turn a simple purchase into a multi-week ordeal that frustrates everyone involved.

Approval bottlenecks

Without an automated workflow, requests often sit waiting for approvals in someone's inbox. There's no transparent routing, so a purchase request might spend days or weeks in limbo. This creates frustration and last-minute rushes. A telltale sign of a broken intake process is frequent bottlenecks where everyone is waiting on someone else's email response or signature. Meanwhile, the requester has no idea whether their request is stuck with finance, legal, or their own manager.

Limited visibility and the black hole effect

In a bad intake setup, both procurement and business stakeholders suffer from poor visibility. Requesters have no way to check the status, leading them to feel the process is a black box. Meanwhile, procurement has no dashboard of incoming requests, making it hard to forecast upcoming spending or workloads. This lack of transparency can result in missed opportunities when procurement finds out about a purchase after the fact. The phrase black hole comes up repeatedly in organizations where requests seem to disappear after submission.

Maverick spending

Perhaps the biggest consequence of a flawed intake process is that people start bypassing procurement entirely. If it's too cumbersome or slow to go through proper channels, employees may purchase on their own using purchase cards, expensing items for expense reimbursement, or directly signing vendor contracts. This rogue spend leads to multiple problems, including contracts without legal review, lost bulk discount opportunities, and higher compliance risks. It also means procurement cannot consolidate or leverage that spend, undermining its strategic value. When employees find workarounds, the organization loses control of its spending.

Administrative burnout

For procurement staff, a messy intake means constant firefighting. They're responding to scattered requests, manually chasing approvals, and correcting mistakes. This heavy administrative load contributes to the statistic that procurement teams spend 71% of their time on non-strategic tasks. It's a morale issue too. Talent in procurement gets bogged down in low-value work, which can hurt job satisfaction and retention. Nobody joined procurement to spend their days forwarding emails and begging for missing information.

Best practices for a smooth procurement intake process

To overcome the challenges above, organizations should adopt best practices that streamline and ensure the smooth and foolproof intake of procurement requests. These practical guidelines and strategies help build or improve a procurement intake approach that actually works.

Establish a single entry point

Consolidate all purchase requests through one channel or platform. Whether it's a dedicated procurement portal or an intake form, having a single point of entry ensures no request is missed and information is captured consistently. Communicate to all employees that this is how to request anything procurement-related, reducing the temptation to send side emails. This single channel becomes the front door that everyone knows to use, eliminating confusion about where to submit requests.

Standardize request forms and information requirements

Design an intake form or template that captures all necessary details for a request, including description of need, quantity, required date, estimated cost, and department. This standardization prevents missing information. Keep the form user-friendly and not overly long. Focus on key data needed for approval. Avoid the mistake of overwhelming users with dozens of unnecessary fields or a long menu of request types. The goal is to collect vital data while keeping it simple for the requester so theyll actually use the form. Include guidance text or examples so that anyone can fill it out correctly on the first try.

Implement automated workflows and approval routing

Use workflow tools or software to automatically route intake submissions to the right people. For example, a software purchase request might be configured to automatically send to IT, legal, and finance for review, based on preset rules. Removing manual forwarding eliminates email bottlenecks. Set up approval thresholds where purchases under $5,000 auto-approve with one manager sign-off to accelerate low-risk purchases. Automation ensures each request follows the proper steps without procurement having to micromanage the process.

Provide visibility and status tracking

A best-in-class intake approach lets requesters and procurement staff easily track the status of each request. This could be through an online dashboard or automated email notifications at key stages. Transparency keeps stakeholders informed and frees procurement from fielding status inquiries. It also allows procurement managers to monitor workloads and aging requests. Ensuring self-service visibility into request status builds trust in the process. People can check for themselves rather than sending where's my request? emails.

Integrate intake with procurement technology

Connect the intake process with your broader procurement or finance platforms like P2P suites, ERP, or contract management tools. For instance, when an intake request is approved, it should seamlessly trigger the creation of a purchase requisition or trigger the onboarding of a new supplier in the next platform. Integration prevents duplicate data entry and maintains a single source of truth for all purchase data. Information from intake, like business justification or attached documents, carries through to later stages, so nothing is lost in transition.

Leverage guidance and AI assistance

Modern best practices include embedding intelligent guidance into the intake. This represents one of the most practical applications of AI in procurement today. This might be as simple as help text on the form, or as advanced as a conversational AI chatbot that walks the user through their request. An AI-driven intake approach could ask follow-up questions or suggest the appropriate buying channel based on the request details. Such guidance ensures requests are done right the first time and reduces the back-and-forth for clarification.

Keep improving and avoid old pitfalls

Design your intake process for today's needs, not yesterday's. Don't simply digitize an old paper form with 20 signatures. Rethink what approvals are truly necessary and eliminate redundant steps. Avoid automating outdated processes that were designed for a bygone era. Instead, streamline the workflow before you automate. Gather feedback from users and continuously improve the intake experience. If employees find the form confusing or the process too slow, refine it. The intake process should adapt to the organization's needs and technology capabilities.

Key features to look for in intake management software

An organized intake process can be managed with manual discipline and basic tools, but most organizations find that dedicated software greatly enhances consistency and efficiency. In recent years, a new class of software solutions has emerged specifically to handle procurement intake. Many procurement software suites now offer intake modules, and several standalone platforms focus exclusively on intake and workflow orchestration.

User-friendly request interface

The software should make it easy for employees to submit requests. This means a clean, intuitive UI, possibly a self-service portal or even a chat-style interface where the user can quickly input what they need without confusion. A consumer-like experience is extremely important. If the tool is clunky, people will revert to emails. Top solutions often include dynamic forms where fields appear based on previous answers or AI chatbots to guide users through the request. The goal is an intake process so simple that anyone can initiate a purchase request correctly on the first try. Some platforms use conversational interfaces that feel as natural as texting a colleague.

Automated workflows and approval routing

A hallmark of intake software is built-in workflow engines. The tool should automatically route requests to the appropriate approvers and experts. Look for customizable rules that route all IT-related purchases to the IT manager or any request over $50,000 to the CFO. Parallel approval capabilities let multiple stakeholders review simultaneously rather than sequentially. Automation ensures compliance with approval matrices and frees procurement from playing traffic cop. Leading platforms can guide a request through approvals, purchase order creation, and even payments in a single unified workflow.

Integration with existing technology

The intake solution must connect with your procurement, finance, and IT platforms. Integration with ERP and procure-to-pay tools allows data from the intake form, like vendor info and cost center, to flow into purchase orders or payment processes seamlessly. Integration with communication tools like Slack or Microsoft Teams is a plus, so users can submit or track requests through the apps they already use. A good intake tool plays nicely in the enterprise tech stack, preventing the intake process from becoming a silo. The best solutions act as connectors rather than creating another disconnected platform.

AI and intelligent triage

Modern intake management solutions incorporate AI to enhance decision-making. This includes AI-driven categorization of requests where the platform recognizes a request as marketing service versus IT hardware and flags it accordingly. AI can prioritize requests based on risk or urgency and flag potential compliance issues, like identifying that a request might require a data privacy review before sending it forward. Some advanced platforms use machine learning to recommend the optimal procurement route for a request, such as suggesting a preferred supplier or contract. These intelligent features reduce manual effort and catch issues early.

Tracking, analytics, and reporting

Robust intake software provides dashboards and reports. Procurement leaders should be able to see metrics like the number of requests per month, the average approval cycle time, and bottlenecks in the process. Analytics help in continuous improvement. If data shows most delays happen at a certain approval step, you can investigate and fix it. Every request has an audit trail from submission to completion, ensuring accountability. These insights transform procurement from guessing about workload to knowing exactly where time and effort go.

Scalability and flexibility

Whatever software is chosen should be flexible enough to adapt to different types of requests and scale with organizational growth. It should allow configuration of new workflow rules or form fields without heavy IT involvement. Many modern tools are no-code or low-code, meaning procurement can tweak the intake forms and flows themselves. Flexibility is important because procurement needs change, like the ability to add a new compliance checkpoint when regulations shift. This tool must also accommodate that without a rebuild. The platform should grow with your organization rather than constrain it.

Emerging intake management trends

Intake management is changing rapidly, influenced by broader trends in technology and business operations. Here's what's next for intake management and what procurement teams should anticipate in the coming years.

AI and automation at the forefront

Artificial intelligence is set to play an even larger role in intake management. Analysts predict that in the near future, a majority of procurement requests will have some form of AI assistance. We're already seeing AI categorize incoming requests, suggest appropriate approval paths, and even draft responses or purchase orders for simple requests. As these AI capabilities mature, procurement teams can handle growing request volumes without adding headcount, and routine purchases might become almost touchless.

Predictive analytics and proactive procurement

Future intake platforms might help predict needs before an official request is made. Using historical data and trends, predictive analytics could alert procurement that a certain department is likely to need a new software subscription next quarter. Armed with such foresight, procurement can reach out proactively or arrange contracts in advance. This shifts intake from reactive mode to a more proactive, strategic function. Instead of waiting for requests, procurement can anticipate and prepare for upcoming needs.

Deeper integration and embedded intake

Expect intake management to become more seamlessly embedded in employees' daily workflows. Rather than logging into a separate portal, employees might initiate procurement requests directly from tools like Slack, Microsoft Teams, or project management software. The vision is that stakeholders can submit and track requests without leaving the apps they use for work. This convenience will likely boost adoption and ensure that following the procurement process is the path of least resistance for everyone. The future of procurement is intake that meets people where they already work.

Enhanced user experience through consumerization

The bar is rising for user experience. Future procurement intake interfaces may incorporate voice commands or chatbot assistants so that making a request feels as easy as ordering a product online. Given that user adoption is crucial, vendors are focusing on consumer-like experiences for enterprise software. We may see more natural language processing, mobile-friendly designs, and personalization in intake tools. The easier and more intuitive the process, the more compliance and engagement it will drive. Think Amazon-like simplicity for corporate purchasing.

Holistic procurement orchestration

Intake management is increasingly viewed as one component of a larger procurement orchestration strategy. This means coordinating not just the intake, but also the downstream processes like sourcing, contracting, and payment in a unified, AI-powered flow. In the future, the lines between intake and the rest of procurement may blur, as platforms automatically carry a request from initial need all the way through supplier selection and purchase order, with minimal manual intervention. The trend is toward an end-to-end solution where intake is the trigger for a fully orchestrated procurement event.

Transform how your company manages procurement spend

Intake management has emerged as a critical pillar of modern procurement operations. It's far more than an administrative formality. A well-executed intake process serves as the foundation for efficient, compliant, and strategic procurement. It closes the gaps where requests might otherwise slip through, ensuring every purchase is visible and value-optimized.

By eliminating bottlenecks and reducing rogue spend, good intake management elevates procurement's role from gatekeeper to strategic advisor in the organization. Industry experts stress that intake management directly drives procurement efficiency and performance. The benefits are clear and measurable, from faster cycle times to better stakeholder relationships.

For organizations still grappling with chaotic email-based requests or slow approvals, the writing is on the wall. It's time to rethink and overhaul the intake process. Implementing the best practices and tools outlined above can transform procurement from a reactive cost center into a proactive partner that adds real business value.

Agility and compliance are paramount today, making it just as important to focus on how work enters the procurement pipeline as how it gets completed. Without a good intake approach, organizations will continue to face inefficiencies and hidden costs. Investment in smart intake management sets the stage for long-term strategic gains.

This story was produced by Brex and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the sovereign wealth fund of Saudi Arabia will launch a US$1 billion fund to help companies from Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area expand into the Middle Eastern country, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po said on Tuesday.

The move was expected to contribute to the development of non-oil economic sectors in Saudi Arabia, he said.

"Next month, a major Saudi development company will be hosting a roadshow in Hong Kong to seek strategic partners and professional service providers to support their infrastructure development," Chan added at a conference discussing Hong Kong's role in the changing global economy. He did not specify the company.

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The HKMA - the city's de facto central bank - and the Public Investment Fund of Saudi Arabia agreed to launch the fund in October 2024 with the signing of a memorandum of understanding in Riyadh.

The fund is expected to explore investments in manufacturing, renewables, fintech and healthcare, supporting the localisation in Saudi Arabia of Chinese companies that are looking to expand overseas from Hong Kong and other cities in the Greater Bay Area.

The push comes as a growing number of Chinese companies are seeking international expansion while the Gulf Cooperation Council - an economic bloc comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates - has pledged to invest US$100 billion in renewable energy by 2030.

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund first agreed to launch the fund in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in October 2024. Photo: Shutterstock alt=The Hong Kong Monetary Authority and Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund first agreed to launch the fund in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in October 2024. Photo: Shutterstock>

Hong Kong-based Templewater partnered with Omani sovereign wealth fund Future Fund Oman in September to launch Oman's first Energy Transition Fund with US$200 million in initial capital, with the Omani fund anchoring US$100 million as cornerstone investor.

A wave of Chinese renewable-energy companies has carried out stock offerings in Hong Kong this year to raise funds for expansion in international markets. These included the US$5.3 billion listing of the world's largest maker of electric vehicle (EV) batteries, Contemporary Amperex Technology, in May and the US$1.8 billion share sale by Huawei Technologies-powered EV maker Seres Group this month.
ZURICH (Reuters) -The United States and Switzerland are working towards implementing a reduction in U.S. tariffs on Switzerland to 15% from 39% in the coming days, the Swiss government said after it sealed an initial deal last week.

On Friday, the Swiss government and the United States reached a preliminary agreement to cut the tariffs to 15% more than three months after U.S. President Donald Trump hit Switzerland with the highest import duties in Europe.

Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin told Tuesday's edition of the Aargauer Zeitung newspaper that the government expected it would take 10 to 12 working days for the lower tariffs to enter the system, but declined to give a precise date.

A spokesperson for the Swiss economy ministry said on Wednesday that Switzerland and the United States aim to implement the lower U.S. tariff rate as quickly as possible.

"The technical implementation will take a few days," the spokesperson said, adding that the government would inform the public once that process is complete.

(Writing by Dave Graham, editing by Ariane Luthi)
NEED TO KNOW

Ali Larter is explaining why a quieter life in Idaho suits her better in a new feature for the Wall Street Journal

The actress relocated to Sun Valley, Idaho, in 2022 with her husband Hayes MacArthur and their two kids after falling in love with the scenery during a ski trip

Larter and MacArthur ended up building their 4,400-square-foot dream home set on two acres of land in Sun Valley

Ali Larter is opening up about her transformative move to Idaho after years of living in Los Angeles.

In the latest House Call feature published by the Wall Street Journal on Tuesday, Nov. 18, the Landman star, 49, got candid about why her new life in the mountains suits her better after relocating to Sun Valley, Idaho, in 2022.

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Larter and her husband Hayes MacArthur were instantly drawn to the open spaces and vast mountains after first visiting on a family ski trip with their two kids  Teddy, 14, and Vivienne, 10  during the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition to being captivated by the settings natural beauty, Larter explains how the scenery inspired a specific feeling within her that she hadn't felt before. Having lived there for a few years now, she says she feels most like herself in her new home.

Theres some magic in the mountains," she says. "When Im up there hiking for three hours, I feel a special calmness. I feel the most in my skin now than Ive ever felt before.

Ali Larter/Instagram Ali Larter Ali Larter

After falling in love with that feeling, Larter and MacArthur set out to build their dream home from the ground up.

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The house we built on 2 acres has lots of windows and great views of the mountains, she says.

Jerod Harris/Getty; Paramount

The Legally Blonde and Varsity Blues alum previously opened the doors to her serene abode for Rue Magazine in September 2024.

At the time, she explained how living in a small town was quite a change for her and her husband, however they immediately felt a deep appreciation for the tight-knit community they found there.

Neither of us had ever lived in a small town before," she said. "People look out for each other. Theres a real sense of community here and were so happy to be a part of it.

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While constructing their 4,400-square-foot abode, Larter knew she wanted to create something that fit into the natural geography of Sun Valley but didnt have that traditional cabiny feel," she said at the time.

Along with walls of glass that showcase and invite the gorgeous scenery into the home, the couple leaned into a neutral color palette with oak wood paneling.

Ali Larter/Instagram Ali Larter Ali Larter

The mom of two also noted how the quiet grandness of the mountains, and the peaceful feel of Idaho in general, often serves as a gentle reminder to slow down and live in the moment.

Most of the time in my life, I feel like Im going 1,000 miles an hour and these giant rocks chill me out, the actress said.

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Ali Larter/Instagram Ali Larter and husband Hayes MacArthur with their children Theodore and Vivienne Ali Larter and husband Hayes MacArthur with their children Theodore and Vivienne

Speaking to PEOPLE exclusively earlier in November, Larter pulled the curtain back a little more while discussing her magic life in Idaho  and how it ended up being the best move for her family.

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"It's incredibly calming and grounding to live in the mountains, and we love raising our children in a rural small town," she says, adding that shes appreciative of the quality time she's able to have with her kids there.

Life in Idaho "has been a gift for our family," she continued. "It's important to me that when I come home, I can be present with my children."



Read the original article on People
NEED TO KNOW

Summer Heather Worden, a former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer, pleaded guilty to lying to law enforcement after she previously alleged her ex-wife Anne McClain committed the first crime in outer space

Worden claimed that McClain had illegally accessed her personal bank account from the International Space Station

The former couple got married in 2014, and their divorce was finalized in 2020

Summer Heather Worden, the ex-wife of NASA astronaut Anne McClain, pleaded guilty to lying to law enforcement after she previously accused McClain of committing the first crime in outer space.

Worden, a former U.S. Air Force intelligence officer, entered her guilty plea on Nov. 13, the U.S. District Attorney's Office, Southern District of Texas announced on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

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Worden, 50, a resident of Sedgwick County, Kan., claimed McClain guest the password for her bank account and "illegally accessed" it while she was in the International Space Station in July 2019, federal prosecutors say.

"However, Worden had actually opened the account in April 2018. Both parties had accessed it until January 2019 when Worden changed the credentials. The investigation revealed Worden had granted her spouse access to her bank records from at least 2015, including her login credentials," the release from the DA's office continued.

Aubrey Gemignani/NASA via Getty Expedition 58 Flight Engineer Anne McClain of NASA Expedition 58 Flight Engineer Anne McClain of NASA

McClain, 46, and Worden were married from 2014 to 2019. McClain, 46, a West Point graduate who served in Iraq, joined NASA in 2013, The New York Times reports. She most recently served as commander of NASAs SpaceX Crew-10 mission, which began in March, and saw her return to Earth in August, according to the outlet.

Worden's allegations sparked an investigation from NASA's inspector general and the Federal Trade Commission. Worden filed for divorce in 2018 after McClain accused her of assault. The assault case was dismissed, according to local Missouri NBC affiliate KSDK.

Anne Mcclain/X Astronaut Anne Mcclain setting up the facility in one of the NASA EXPRESS racks. Astronaut Anne Mcclain setting up the facility in one of the NASA EXPRESS racks.

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The claims came amid the former couple's bitter divorce proceedings and a custody battle regarding their son, who was six years old in 2018. Their divorce was finalized in 2020, KSDK reports.

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U.S. District Judge Alfred Bennett has scheduled Worden's sentencing for Feb. 12, 2026. Worden is facing up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. She is permitted to remain on bond until sentencing, federal prosecutors said.

Read the original article on People
LOS ANGELES, California  Valuables stolen during a series of Los Angeles-area burglaries tied to South American theft crews have been recovered in Chile and returned to their owners, including actor Keanu Reeves, the FBI Los Angeles Field Office announced this week.

Chilean investigators from the Policia de Investigaciones de Chile (PDI), discovered the items earlier this year while executing search warrants in Santiago as part of a joint operation with the FBI. Authorities said the loot was traced back to two victims targeted in burglaries believed to be carried out by South American Theft Groups, or SATGs, which have increasingly focused on Southern California, the FBI said.

FBI and PDI personnel handing Reeves back property stolen from his Los Angeles home in December 2023. Among the recovered belongings was a personalized Rolex connected to the John Wick franchise, authorities said. Reeves sent a handwritten note to investigators expressing his appreciation, thanking the LAPD, the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, the bureaus legal attache in Santiago, Chilean prosecutors and PDI officials.

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According to the FBI, SATGs typically involve crew members from South American countries who travel internationally to commit burglaries, retail thefts and other crimes. Law enforcement officials said Chilean actors are particularly sophisticated, using surveillance and advanced tools to identify and target homes, including properties owned by athletes and high-profile performers.

Read the original article on cleveland.com.
Mark Wahlberg and Steve Cohen just got a new neighbor.

Rockstar Energy founder Russ Weiner, who recently changed his legal name to Russ Savage, is in contract to buy two homes in Delray Beachs ultra-exclusive Stone Creek Ranch. The contracts represent the last two estates available in the tiny Palm Beach County community thats been attracting CEOs, athletes and celebrities like a magnet.

The $20.9 million mansion is Weiners second contract in the neighborhood  his second is just across the lake. Daniel Petroni Photography

The home sits on 2.5 acres in the community of Stone Creek Ranch, which enjoys the protection of armed guards. Daniel Petroni Photography

Russ Weiner, now Russ Savage, made his fortune with Rockstar energy drinks. San Francisco Chronicle via Getty Images

Stone Creek Ranch is the closest community I have ever seen compared to Beverly Park in Beverly Hills, Weiner, 55, told the Post in a statement. The privacy, security, and space is like nowhere else in South Florida with so few homes.

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Weiner, who is the son of conservative talk show host Michael Savage, is currently in contract for a $20.9 million lakefront mansion, as previously reported by The Real Deal.

The Post has now learned that Weiner is in contract for a second, $21.99 million home just across the lake.

The 17,000-square-foot mansion sits on 2.5 acres. It boasts 660 feet of waterfront and a garage expandable with lifts that can accommodate 18 vehicles.

Senada Adzem of Douglas Elliman handled the $21.99 million sale. Adzem told the Post that Weiner plans to use one home for himself and the other for his extended family.

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The sellers purchased the home under construction, Adzem said, and spent millions on landscaping. They carefully designed the home and its grounds with Aman Resorts in mind, shirking Floridian palm trees for Cyprus trees, bougainvillea and Japanese blueberry trees.

The outdoor living room. Daniel Petroni Photography

The master suite. Daniel Petroni Photography

An aerial of Mark Wahlbergs brand new $37 million home  Weiners pad (right) sits across the lake. Daniel Petroni

Hedge funder and Mets owner Steve Cohen owns the $21 million mansion next door to Wahlberg. Corey Sipkin for the NY POST

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Both of Weiners new properties have a lakeside view of Mark Wahlbergs recently purchased $37 million home. Next to that, Mets Owner Steve Cohens $21 million home.

A map of the gated enclave appears like a Monopoly board of multi-millionaires and billionaires.

The particular popularity of Stone Creek Ranch is apparent in not only in its big names, but big numbers.

Wahlbergs new home  one of celeb developer Aldo Starks projects  saw an incredible 118% price increase since 2020 alone. Adzem said values there have skyrocketed there in recent years, as the last of the small communitys vacant lots were snapped up and $6 million sales turned into $20 million sales.

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The 187-acre enclave in Palm Beach County boasts just 37 estates, thereby offering the kind of wide open spaces and intense privacy that billionaires down in Miami are practically scrambling to acquire  without the nine-figure price tags.

Weiner, pictured with his father Michael Savage, has an estimated net worth of $5.4 billion. Instagram/michaelsavagenation

Weiner recently purchased a Miami Beach home, formerly owned by Rosie ODonnell, for $35.3 million. Mike Ruiz from Legendary Productions

Residents here put a premium on privacy, Adzem said. Armed guards patrol the outer gates and homes are spaced apart at healthy distances.

In his statement, Weiner cited a Northeast socialist takeover sending families southwards.

It appears that Weiner is all in on Florida, if his aggressive real estate activity is anything to go by. The beverage mogul, whose net worth totals an estimated $5.4 billion, recently dropped $35.3 million on Rosie ODonnells former Star Island home in August. He sold off his $32.5 million home on North Bay Road in October, The Real Deal reported.

Florida is the new Golden State, he said.
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King Charles III reportedly put his foot down when one royal couple proposed leaving England.

Keep reading for the details

MORE: Follow Wonderwall on MSN for more top news

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According to a source, King Charles III was not fond of his niece Zara Tindall and her husband Mike Tindall's potential move to Australia. "When the idea was discussed seriously during a sit-down, it drew blank faces and teary eyes from several members of the family," the insider told Daily Express.

Mirrorpix / MEGA

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King Charles III reportedly expressed "extreme joy" when Zara Tindall and Mike Tindall decided against moving to Australia full-time. "It became instantly clear that it wasn't a move that could ever become permanent. Longer periods of time will be spent in Australia instead," the source claimed.

James Whatling / MEGA

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Zara Tindall -- Princess Anne's daughter -- has a close relationship with King Charles III. The relatives are often seen sharing laughs and hugs at events like Royal Ascot.

Mirrorpix / MEGA

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Zara Tindall previously indicated that she and husband Mike Tindall were considering moving to Australia -- where they first met in 2003 -- when she stops competing professionally as an equestrian. "Probably not while I'm still competing. It would be a little bit hard commuting," she told The Australian Women's Weekly in 2019 of a possible move. "But after that, yes, I think if an opportunity came up, we'd definitely think about it."

James Whatling / MEGA

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With Prince Harry  who introduced Zara Tindall to Mike Tindall  and Meghan Markle living in America, King Charles III has allegedly leaned on his niece and her spouse. However, don't expect them to be on the royal payroll any time soon. "Zara has been very popular. You'll see her at Royal Ascot, you'll see her doing her own thing," expert Robert Jobson told Hello. "I do think that it's about money. The ones who are working are on the payroll. I don't think that's going to be the case in terms of the unofficial side of things. I think it'll be very much more informal."
Cheryl Hines is reportedly furious over Olivia Nuzzi's claims that she shared an emotional affair with her husband, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., and that he even wanted her to have his baby.

The Hollywood actress is said to have deemed the allegations lies and deeply hurtful. Kennedy denies any romantic involvement, while Nuzzi's memoir describes an intense virtual connection.

Meanwhile, Olivia Nuzzi's ex-fiance, Ryan Lizza, claims he discovered a love letter suggesting she also had an affair with former Gov. Mark Sanford.

Cheryl Hines Slams Olivia Nuzzi's Allegations Of Romance With RFK Jr.

ZUMAPRESS.com / MEGA

Hines is seething over Olivia Nuzzi's claims that she and Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Hines' husband, shared a romantic connection, and that Kennedy even wanted her to have his child, sources told the New York Post.

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According to a friend of Hines, the "Curb Your Enthusiasm" actress has privately blasted Nuzzi as a "f-cking liar," insisting the journalist's allegations are not only untrue but deeply insulting.

The friend emphasized that Hines' choice of words "underscores the intense anger she feels" about what she believes are blatant fabrications in Nuzzi's upcoming book, "American Canto," which hits shelves December 2.

"He would never love THAT woman, let alone have her have his baby," Hines reportedly told the friend. "What that woman's claiming is almost laughable if it wasn't so hurtful."

Nuzzi, who has since climbed to the role of West Coast editor at Vanity Fair, doesn't explicitly name Kennedy in her book.

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Instead, she references a high-ranking government official she calls "The Politician," describing what she portrays as an emotionally charged, virtual-only entanglement that played out through texts and FaceTime. She maintains that the relationship was never physical.

The Actress Considered Divorcing The Politician Over The Sexting Scandal

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Kennedy, 71, has repeatedly denied any romantic involvement with Nuzzi, saying his only interaction with her was a single interview during his 20232024 presidential bid.

When the scandal first surfaced, Hines, who has been married to the Secretary of Health and Human Services, was reportedly "heartbroken," with a source adding that she briefly considered divorce and stopped wearing her wedding ring.

In her new memoir, "Unscripted," Hines recounts how navigating the scandal forced her and Kennedy to confront and repair their marriage.

Cheryl Hines Reportedly Believes Olivia Nuzzi Used Her Husband

MEGA

The renewed attention on Nuzzi's book has reportedly reopened old wounds for Hines since the sexting scandal.

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"Cheryl believed the whole sordid sexting affair was finally in the past," an insider explained. "But then the stories about Nuzzi's book and her allegations about her relationship with Bobby exploded back in the headlines, and the sh-t hit the fan."

They added: "Cheryl believes Olivia used Bobby, and is now trying to persecute him with her book  to embarrass him, force him out of his job, and again injure their marriage."

Explosive Book Excerpt Claims RFK Jr. Told Olivia Nuzzi He Loved Her And Would 'Take A Bullet' For Her

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A teaser from "American Canto," released by Vanity Fair on Monday, offered the first look at Nuzzi's explosive claims.

In the excerpt, she said that she only admitted having feelings for "The Politician" after he allegedly confessed his love first. She gushes over his "flame-blue eyes," his "particular complications and particular darkness," and says his nose was the feature she adored most.

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Nuzzi also alleged Kennedy wrote her poems, called her "Livvy," told her he would "take a bullet" for her, and even expressed wanting her to have his child, according to a New York Times profile titled "Olivia Nuzzi Did It All for Love."

She says their bond deepened quickly after she profiled him in October 2023, during his independent presidential run.

Nuzzi writes that she fell for his hyper-sensitivity, describing him as a man who could cry over something as simple as a rose. She also claims Kennedy told her that her mouth was the feature he found most irresistible.

Olivia Nuzzi's Ex-Fiance Ryan Lizza Says Love Letter Exposed Her Alleged Affair With A Former Governor

MEGA

Meanwhile, Nuzzi's former fiance, journalist Ryan Lizza, added fuel to the fire by publishing his own account on Substack.

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Lizza claimed Nuzzi was not only involved with Kennedy but also had a separate affair with former South Carolina governor Mark Sanford.

In a post titled "Part 1: How I Found Out," Lizza recounted the moment he believed he uncovered proof. After Nuzzi returned from what she described as a reporting trip, her Herschel backpack spilled open beside their bed. Sifting through the scattered notebooks and papers, he says he found a handwritten letter on hotel stationery dated March 5, 2020.

It read: "If I swallowed every drop of water from the tower above your house, I would still thirst for you." Lizza pointed out that their house didn't have a water tower.

Another sheet, he claimed, identified the intended recipient simply as "Mark," leading him to believe the note was written for Sanford, whose presidential campaign Nuzzi had profiled months earlier, and who himself is known for a high-profile past affair.
Donald Trump recently took a jab at Tom Cruise. In his recent speech at McDonalds Impact Summit, the US president mockingly highlighted the Hollywood veterans height while complimenting pilots who bombed Irans nuclear facilities in June. Cruises height has been widely discussed and reported on, although the actor himself has barely addressed it.

Donald Trump took a swipe at Tom Cruise

Donald Trump recently gave a speech at the McDonalds Impact Summit, where he delivered remarks on several topics. In his speech, he complimented the B-2 bombers who bombed Irans nuclear facilities in June, calling them gorgeous. He further praised the pilots, whose work he witnessed in the Situation Room, and recalled wondering if people wanted to do what they did for a living.

Trump then recalled honoring the pilots by inviting them into the White House alongside mechanics and other personnel. He noticed that the pilots were handsome after calling them to the Oval Office.

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The president remarked that the pilots resembled Tom Cruise. They really do. I dont want to be a wise guy and say but taller,' he added. Im not gonna say that.

He continued by calling the pilots perfect specimens and saying that they looked like people from a movie. I could take every one of them and put them in a movie, he stated. One of the pilots was a woman, which Trump did not mention.

Tom Cruise is widely reported to be 57. The actor has not frequently discussed his height in interviews. However, he once opened up about it in an Empire interview, where he admitted he was sensitive to discussions about his suitability for the role of Jack Reacher, who is 65, in the 2012 film of the same name (via E! News).

A few months earlier, WWD reported that Cruise wore height-boosting shoes at the F1 premiere. The outlet suggested that he previously used the footwear trick at the Mission: Impossible The Final Reckoning premiere at Cannes.

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Trumps comments about Cruises height come shortly after the latter received his first Oscar at the Governors Awards.

The post Donald Trump Makes This Joke at Tom Cruises Expense appeared first on Mandatory.
Indian state-run refineries Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum have signed their first long-term deal with the US to import 2.2 million tonnes of liquified petroleum gas (LPG) next year.

Under the agreement, India will source nearly 10% of its annual LPG imports from the US Gulf Coast. It is the first structured LPG contract with the US for the Indian market.

This represents a significant increase from last year, when the US provided less than 0.6% of Indias total LPG imports, according to a Bloomberg report.

India has been negotiating a trade deal with the US to lower the tariffs on Indian goods, partly in response to its Russian oil purchases.

The tariffs have affected more than half of the Indian goods exported to the US market and have posed a threat to Indias manufacturing sector.

Phillips 66 will supply two cargoes a month, while Chevron and TotalEnergies will supply one each, the report said, citing traders familiar with the matter.

The agreement follows a visit to the US in July by officials from the three Indian refiners for discussions with major US producers.

India, the worlds second-largest consumer of LPG, has sought to secure stable and varied supply channels amid ongoing trade discussions with the US.

According to the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, the deal is part of its broader strategy to secure LPG supplies from diverse sources and ensure energy security for Indian households.

The government has also continued to subsidise LPG cylinders for eligible beneficiaries, despite global price increases.

In August this year, the Indian Government sanctioned Rs300bn ($3.4bn) to Indian Oil, Bharat Petroleum and Hindustan Petroleum to cover losses from under-recoveries on domestic LPG sales.

"India signs first long-term LPG import deal with US " was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




(NewsNation)  Billionaire Elon Musk has fired back at Billie Eilish after she called him a coward in an expletive-filled post about his wealth.

Musk responded to a fan page dedicated to the Grammy winner, who posted screenshots of Eilishs Instagram posts slamming Musk.

Former Prince Andrew removed from plaques in Falkland Islands

Shes not the sharpest tool in the shed, the Tesla CEO posted on his social media platform X.

Amazon Prime Big Deal Days

 Many of Amazons best Black Friday sales are already live

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 Stock up on holiday decor while you still have time

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Billie Eilish: Elon Musk can end world hunger

Last week, Eilish called Musk a f pathetic p- b coward for not giving away his billions of dollars to end world hunger and to help other people.

The Grammy winner shared posts from the European feminist organization My Voice, My Choice, showing how Musk could give away his money.

Billie Eilish poses in the press room with the awards for best song written for visual media and song of the year for What Was I Made For? from Barbie the Album during the 66th annual Grammy Awards on Sunday, Feb. 4, 2024, in Los Angeles. (Photo by Richard Shotwell/Invision/AP) Elon Musk listens as President Donald Trump speaks during a news conference in the Oval Office of the White House, Friday, May 30, 2025, in Washington. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

In addition to ending world hunger, the pictures say he can save endangered species and rebuild Gaza.

Tesla shareholders voted earlier this month to award Musk a massive $1 trillion pay package if he hits certain performance benchmarks over the next decade.

Bilie Eilish tells billionaires to give their fortunes away

The Oscar winner was on hand at the WSJ Magazine Innovator Awards in October to accept the music award. She addressed the wealthier people in attendance, urging them to do more to combat global issues.

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BBC apologizes to Kate Middleton after name mix-up

Were in a time right now where the world is really, really bad and really dark, and people need empathy and help more than ever, especially in our country, Eilish said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NewsNation.
A former Real Housewives of Potomac star was arrested Wednesday in connection with a larceny case.

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According to Atlanta police, officers at HartsfieldJackson Atlanta International Airport arrested Mia Fields-Thornton, who was wanted on a city of Atlanta warrant related to a larceny case.

The arrest occurred after officers responded to a call from the Customs and Border Protection office at the airport.

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Fields-Thornton was identified as having an active warrant for her arrest, which was connected to an alleged furniture theft.

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According to an incident report, the former Bravo star abruptly moved out of a condo in Atlanta on Oct. 28, taking furniture and a TV valued at more than $11,000.

The property manager said Fields-Thornton left the property without notifying anyone, taking furniture and a TV that belonged to the owner.

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The furniture was not supposed to be taken by the tenants, as it belonged to her client, according to the property manager.

According to People magazine, Fields-Thornton announced her exit from The Real Housewives of Potomax after four seasons, stating she is stepping back to focus on her family and a new phase in her life.

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Chiara Ferragni, a wildly glamorous fashion influencer who still boasts more than 28 million Instagram followers, was once a fixture on the Big Apple fashion scene.

At New York Fashion Week, she would post pictures of herself sitting front row at coveted catwalk shows, cozying up to Karlie Kloss and The Real Housewives of New York star Rebecca Minkoff, and using landmarks like the Empire State Building as backdrops in enviable Instagram snaps shared with social media fans.

And when she donned a crocheted lace Christian Dior dress to marry Italian rapper Federico Leonardo Fedez Lucia in 2018, her extravagant wedding at a 19th-century Sicilian palazzo was featured in American Vogue, not to mention observed by a documentary film and reality TV crew.

Chiara Ferragni hit the front row for the Ermanno Scervino runway during Milan Fashion Week in September. Max Cisotti/Dave Benett/Getty Images

But the 38-year-old Italian  who used her fame to build a fortune in the millions of dollars  has had a spectacular fall from grace and is now facing five years in prison after being indicted on charges of aggravated fraud in her home country.

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She already appeared at the Court of Milan for pre-trial hearings on Sept. 23 and Nov. 4, with another court appearance set for next Tuesday, Nov. 25.

Shes been fined $1.27 million for conning the public into thinking she was selling Christmas treats for charity when the vast bulk of cash was going straight into her pockets (she paid an extra $1.39 million for a similar scheme over fake claims that Easter eggs would also underwrite a kids hospital).

The Italian government went further after those fines, though, charging her with aggravated fraud at a criminal trial this month in Milan. If shes convicted, Ferragni could spend up to five years behind Italian bars.

Ferragni appeared for a preliminary hearing last month in Milan. ZUMAPRESS.com

Ferragni was fined upwards of $1.2 million and was charged with aggravated fraud. Chiara Ferragni/Instagram

Ferragnis pandoro was a focus of investigation.

Ferragni has gone from being the darling of Dior, Gucci and Versace, married to a famous rapper and earning up to six figures for a single Instagram post, to divorced, disgraced and seeing her company, Fenice Srl, make a loss of $6.65 million last year.

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Shes the Kim Kardashian of Italy, Lauren Beeching, a crisis PR expert who specializes in sticky situations just like this, told The Post. Shes super glamorous, business-minded and commercially unstoppable. At least until now.

However, the prospect of a half-decade behind bars has not stopped the mother of two, who  rather than retreat gracefully until the trial has concluded  Ferragni instead swanned around fashion weeks this fall as usual, snapping pics and posting with her usual diligence. She also nabbed several glossy magazine covers, including Cosmopolitan Espana, Harpers Bazaar Turkiye and Marie Claire Mexico.

One fashion week invitation did not make the grid, though  her September pre-trial hearing.

But how did it get to this?

Ferragni takes a selfie at a 2023 event in Italy. Getty Images

Ferragni (center) is seated among (from left) Tina Leung, Veronica Ferraro, Tamu Mcpherson and Leonie Hanne at the Stella McCartney Womenswear Spring/Summer 2026 show in Paris in September. Getty Images

Front-row staple Ferragni poses next to Heidi Klum at a 2023 Milan Fashion Week show. WireImage

Ferragni hit the green carpet at the CNMI Sustainable Fashion Awards 2025 during Milan Fashion Week in September. WireImage

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It was in 2009 that Ferragni first became famous for her blogging and bling, showcasing her flashy lifestyle as a student and earning enough attention to drop out of law school to focus on it full-time. Even then, she was canny enough to bleach her mousy brown hair to make her more notable  and fit her nickname.

Shes the biggest It girl in Italy, literally a household name, and she has a huge walk-in closet with hundreds of Chanel bags, says Sophie Ross Brooks, co-host of the influencer-tracking Snark Bait podcast. And theyre not even organized, just haphazardly thrown together. Its, like, Omigod, shes so rich she doesnt even have to worry about storing her Chanel bags carefully. 

There wasnt any aspect of her life she didnt slavishly document on her Insta page, from her wedding to her two pregnancies, with her children eventually becoming fixtures on her platform.

Through the couples earnings, she built up a property portfolio  including a Milanese penthouse and a country retreat on Lake Como. Amazon Prime Italy tapped her entire family to anchor The Ferragnez, a hit Keeping Up With the Kardashians-style show about Chiara and her extended family, including her two lookalike sisters, Valentina and Francesca (the former is actually a natural blond).

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It was all going so well that in 2020, she even considered a personal IPO, allowing fans to quite literally invest in their idol. By the end of 2022, her retail company Fenice Srl  offering womens clothing, jewelry, kidswear, furniture and more  was worth around $87.5 million.

Ferragni is shown in 2012, which she has called part of her in-between years when she was forging her path. Getty Images

Ferragni stands outside of her namesake store in Milan.

Her brand offers clothing, kidswear, furniture and more. RafMaster  stock.adobe.com

Then came #pandorogate  and a crash so extreme that shes lost nearly 90% of that value.

It seemed so innocuous: For Christmas 2022, Ferragni announced yet another collab  this time, with Pillsbury-like baked-goods company Balocco, to sell a special festive cake, or pandoro, for charity.

It was three times pricier than a regular version, but worth every penny for the do-gooding baked in. All the proceeds, Chiara trilled, would go to support the Regina Margherita Childrens Hospital in Turin.

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Almost immediately, Italian media were suspicious and, before the end of the year, had exposed the truth.

Balocco had donated some money to the hospital  $58,000  albeit long before the cake went on sale. As for Chiara, she reportedly pocketed a cool million for her endorsement, or around 20 times what went to those sick kids. (An alleged fraud was repeated around a similar scheme with an Easter egg maker, where only $41,650 of the $1.39 million Chiara and the manufacturer reportedly earned went to charity.)

Chiaras always-on Insta went dark as the Italian authorities began investigating. Eventually, she was fined $1.15 million, charged with aggravated fraud, and earned the dubious legacy of a statute change named in her dishonor: the Ferragni Law, which threatens fines on any charitable product that doesnt make clear the exact percentage that will go to a good cause.

Chiara Ferragni sits on a paddleboard while Italian entrepreneur Giovanni Tronchetti Provera charts the water in Ibiza. BACKGRID

Getty Images

On-the-road Ferragni poses for an Instagram post in October. Chiara Ferragni/Instagram

A lovey-dovey Chiara Ferragni and Fedez embrace for a 2023 photo. Chiara Ferragni/Instagram

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She finally acknowledged her con with a mea culpa Instagram Reel a year later, in December 2024. Almost makeup-free and penitent, she promised a personal donation of another million to the hospital.

Since then, things have gotten worse, not better: Shes weathered a messy public divorce  claiming that Fedez was unfaithful to her throughout their marriage and even offered to leave her at the altar  and tried to relegate the scandal to history by resuming her once-normal schedule, all while criminal charges loomed over her.

It doesnt seem to be working.

Her approach right now is pretty horrific, crisis PR guru Lauren Beeching told The Post. I would be pulling her out of the fashion-week circuit and pushing her to do independent audits and charity work. A complete shift in tone to less gloss and more realism.

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She could start again from the ground up, Beeching suggested, which could include a move to another country.

A bigger problem, though, might be money.

Ferragni leaves her Milan lawyers office with a singularly blinged bag in hand. IPA / SplashNews.com

Ferragni leaves the courthouse in Milan on Nov. 4. She faces another court date next week. AFP via Getty Images

OG influencers like Ferragni face an issue that their business model is outdated, at least according to Ryan Berger, who runs The Berger Shop, an influencer marketing shingle.

Theres been a big change in the influencer space, going from mass to very, very targeted, which is why everyone wants to work with micro-influencers  they speak directly to their audience and theyre trusted. Put another way: no brand wants to pay six figures to reach 28 million people but drive few sales when they could shell out $500 to a niche name that will nearly guarantee them.

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Stateside, there are tighter regulations around influencing, courtesy of the Federal Trade Commission, which already made two-year rules even harsher starting this summer. It increased disclosure requirements, as well as liability for both brands and agencies alongside those content creators, making them all responsible for any infractions. Its as granular as specifying the font size for disclosures at the start of any video (24 points, or the platform equivalent).

Ferragni and Fedez appear in their reality series The Ferragnez. Amazon/Courtesy Everett Collection

Ferragni and Fedez embrace one of their two children in a still from the show. Amazon/Courtesy Everett Collection

The couples Kardashians-esque reality show lasted two seasons. Amazon/Courtesy Everett Collection

Ferragni and Fedez attended the 2022 Met Gala. FilmMagic

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As for Ferragni-like fraud, thats covered under standard statutes, but several states, including California and New York, are agitating for even stricter controls on alleged social media shilling like this. For instance, Golden State Gov. Gavin Newsom signed a law last month that aims to stop scammers from ripping off customers via unlabeled AI deepfakes.

Still, some say that notoriety can be monetized, when handled deftly, even in Ferragnis favorite luxury space.

Barton Consultings Winston Chesterfield is one of them. Hes a guru of that high-end niche and says it can humanize endorsers  look at Jude Laws messy private life, for example, which didnt preclude him scoring Dior Homme and Brioni deals, among others.

It depends on how serious it is, but luxury needs real characters  it cant rely on models  so the idea brands dont want to be associated with any kind of controversy? Its not really true, he explained. Strong women who rise up again like a phoenix from the ashes get rewarded again.

Ferragni poses in her spacious, Chanel- and Hermes-drenched closet last month. Chiara Ferragni/Instagram

One expert told The Post that there could be a rebirth for Ferragni, saying, Strong women who rise up again like a phoenix from the ashes get rewarded again. Chiara Ferragni/Instagram

It all depends on how fierce a fire Chiara winds up facing, though.

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Perhaps a Martha Stewart-style spell in the clink would be the best outcome for everyone, according to crisis expert Beeching.

The influencer world isnt playing by the rules, and they know they can get away with it, she told The Post. So this might be a bit of a lesson for everyone.
NEED TO KNOW

Filipino influencer Gina Lima died at the age of 23 on Nov. 16

Limas ex-boyfriend Ivan Cezar Ronquillo, also a content creator, died three days later at age 24

Both of their causes of death are being investigated by the police

Filipino influencer Gina Lima died at the age of 23 on Nov. 16. Her ex-boyfriend Ivan Cezar Ronquillo, also a content creator, died three days later at age 24.

Lima, who shared modeling and lifestyle content on social media, maintained followings of over 423,000 on Facebook and 182,000 on Instagram. Ronquillo was known by his audience of over 34,000 on Instagram for his fitness photos and videos.

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Lima was pronounced dead after she was brought by Ronquillo to a hospital in Quezon City, a city in the metro area of the Philippines capital Manila, according to Filipino newspaper The Philippine Daily Inquirer.

Per the Inquirer, a medico-legal report from the Quezon City Police Districts Forensic Unit reported that she sustained nonfatal external injuries in addition to fluid in her lungs and a congested heart. Her cause of death remains undetermined as investigators await results from toxicology and histopathology tests.

In a press briefing, QCPD spokesperson Police Major Jennifer Gannaban said that marijuana and other medications were recovered from the room where Lima was found unresponsive, the Inquirer reported.

On the morning of Nov. 19, Ronquillo was found dead in the stairway of his Quezon City home and was pronounced dead upon his arrival at the hospital, according to the Inquirer. Police Lt. Col. Edison Ouano, chief of the QCPD Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit, said that his death is being investigated as an alleged suicide by hanging, the outlet reported.

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PEOPLE has reached out to the Philippine National Police's Medico-Legal Division and the Quezon City Police District's Criminal Investigation and Detection Unit

The day before his death, Ronquillo shared three posts on Facebook in a tribute to his ex-girlfriend, which included photos and videos of the pair of them together.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

I love you so much gina I can never do it without you by my side, read one, translated from Filipino.

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According to the Inquirer, Ouano told the press that police are investigating online harassment Ronquillo received after Limas death and confirmed that he was never a person of interest in the ongoing investigation into how Lima died.

Speaking out after Ronquillos death, his family shared a tribute to the late creator.

I really love you. I wasnt able to hug you. Its too late that I only hugged you when you were already dead. I feel bad for not letting you experience that embrace, said Ronquillos father in Filipino, according to GMA Network, a Filipino news network.

We are looking at the possibility that one of the causes of my nephew's death, or his passing, was due to the overwhelming number of people who judged him on social media, another relative said, per GMA Network. I hope this serves as a lesson to everyone that you shouldn't be judging right away, you should first find out the whole story.

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If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health challenges, emotional distress, substance use problems, or just needs to talk, call or text 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org 24/7.

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Keanu Reeves has spoken out following the FBIs announcement that personal items stolen from his home in 2023, including a John Wick Rolex watch, have been returned to the actor.

Keanu Reeves Watch Collection Returned After Robbery

The FBI confirmed in a Nov. 18 news release that items stolen from Reeves home during a 2023 jewelry heist had been returned to the Good Fortune star. The release explained that the items were recovered by the Policia de Investigaciones de Chile (PDI, or the Investigative Police of Chile) during a raid earlier this year, which targeted a group of organized burglars in Santiago. The gang, dubbed South American Theft Groups (SATG) by government officials, is known to travel from Chile to the United States, burglarizing the homes of affluent victims before returning home and selling the goods. The recovered items belonged to two victims, one of whom was Reeves.

Reeves' Collection Was Worth $125,000

Amongst the actors' stolen items were six wristwatches, one of which was a personalized Rolex Submariner with a John Wick engraving worth $9,500. The total worth of all six watches was $125,000. Reeves positively identified each of the items as the ones taken from his home. In a note to authorities, Reeves said, "It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that I am writing this letter. Thank you so much for all your effort, dedication, professionalism and cross-border cooperation. My warmest regards, Keanu."

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"This case is a perfect example of the excellent international cooperation we enjoy with our Chilean counterparts and our local partners at [the] Los Angeles Police Department," Akil Davis, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, said in the news release. "While burglary is a local crime in the United States, the FBI works collaboratively with the Los Angeles Police Department and others to share intelligence via our Major Theft Task Force and through other channels. These crimes affect celebrities and non-public figures alike, and the FBI is committed to assisting our local partners in combating this scourge affecting the lives of innocent victims."

This story was originally reported by Men's Journal on Nov 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Men's Journal as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
NEED TO KNOW

Valuable items that were stolen from Keanu Reeves' home in a 2023 jewelry theft have finally been returned to the actor

The FBI worked with Chilean authorities to recover the items, which included a personalized Rolex from the John Wick films, the agency shared

The FBI is investigating further robberies linked to the same group

The FBI has returned valuable items previously stolen from Keanu Reeves' home in a 2023 jewelry heist.

In a press release on Tuesday, Nov. 18, the FBI confirmed that the stolen items were returned to Reeves, 61. The agency also shared that theThe Matrix star penned a handwritten thank you note to the government agency, beginning, "It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that I am writing this letter."

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After thanking the several agencies involved in the search for the missing items, Reeves concluded the letter, "Thank you so much for all your effort, dedication, professionalism and cross-border cooperation. My warmest regards, Keanu."

Chilean authorities confirmed they would turn over Reeves' stolen property, including six valuable watches, on July 29.

Among the watches is an engraved Rolex Submariner worth at least $9,500. The total value of the wristwatch is $125,000, a police officer from Chiles robbery investigation squad told the Associated Press (AP).

Chilean prosecutors told reporters that the John Wick star identified the valuable watches as the same ones stolen from his Los Angeles home in December 2023. CNN first reported the watches had surfaced in eastern Santiago a year later in December 2024. At the time, authorities arrested one individual in connection with the violent robberies.

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"This case is a perfect example of the excellent international cooperation we enjoy with our Chilean counterparts and our local partners at Los Angeles Police Department," Akil Davis, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, said in the press release.

"While burglary is a local crime in the United States, the FBI works collaboratively with the Los Angeles Police Department and others to share intelligence via our Major Theft Task Force and through other channels," Davis continued in the statement. "These crimes affect celebrities and non-public figures alike, and the FBI is committed to assisting our local partners in combatting this scourge affecting the lives of innocent victims."

The agency's statement alleged that the theft had been carried out by what it describes as "South American Theft Groups," or "criminal organizations from South American countries who travel to the United States and other nations to commit theft."

The FBI added that it is "actively investigating multiple SATG-linked crimes with local partners that occurred in numerous jurisdictions in the United States."



PDI Chile/X Chilean authorities recovered six valuable watches stolen from Keanu Reeves Chilean authorities recovered six valuable watches stolen from Keanu Reeves

In August, Reeves met with FBI personnel and a Chilean PDI Officer in New York to retrieve his stolen items, the release confirmed.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

"This case underscores how crime today knows no borders, and how vital our international partnerships are in bringing justice to victims here in Los Angeles," LAPD Chief of Police Jim McDonnell said in the FBI's press release.

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"The recovery of these stolen itemsthanks to the outstanding collaboration between the Policia de Investigaciones de Chile, the FBI, and our detectivessends a strong message that organized theft groups will be pursued wherever they operate," McDonnell continued. "I am proud of the work our team has done alongside our federal and international partners to hold these criminal networks accountable."



Read the original article on People
It was a tale of four Nics  and some 200 fellow victors and trailblazers  at the 2025 WWD Beauty Inc Awards ceremony Tuesday night in New York.

The event, held at Lavan Midtown following Beauty Incs inaugural The Catalysts conference, celebrated the innovators, ideas and launches forging the future of beauty. That the honoree cohort included a Nicolas (Hieronimus, LOreal Groupe), a Nicola (Formichetti, MAC Cosmetics), a Nyx (Professional Makeup) and a Nick (Vlahos, Rhode) was pure coincidence  but a cheery one nonetheless.

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Its kind of like my Greek wedding, laughed Vlahos, chief executive officer of Hailey Biebers Rhode upon accepting the Deal of the Year award alongside Scott Milsten, general counsel and chief people officer of E.l.f. Beauty, which acquired Rhode in a $1 billion deal in May.

The culmination of one of beautys most transformative years yet, the ceremony shone a light on the individuals and teams that made it so.

Jenny B. Fine and Nicolas Hieronimus at the 2025 Beauty Inc. Awards held at Lavan Midtown on November 18, 2025 in New York, New York.

It should come as no surprise, then, that the night kicked off with a fireside chat between Beauty Inc editor in chief Jenny B. Fine and Hieronimus, who was Beauty Incs 2025 Pete Born Impact Award honoree. As CEO of LOreal Groupe  only the sixth in the companys 116-year history  Hieronimus has exemplified the kind of agility, speed and creativity that todays macro-environment increasingly demands of its winners.

I like the concept of movement, of beauty that moves the world, said Hieronimus, whose most recent industry-shaking move was a 4-billion-euro transaction this fall to acquire Kerings beauty properties, further cementing LOreals dominance in the luxury beauty space.

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What Im trying to do at LOreal is to create a movement that will project the company into the future; into new territories, new visions of beauty, new categories. Whether were talking about beauty-tech, dermatology, new types of consumers  I dont know if Elon Musk is right to say were going to be on Mars someday, but Im sure if Martians want to look great, we will be there for them.

This solar-systems-the-limit mentality was a common theme among the nights honorees, among them Kourtney Kardashian Barker and Simon Huck, whose supplement brand Lemme has catalyzed its category with new formats and on-trend offerings.

Kourtney Kardashian Barker and Simon Huck

I started my wellness journey when I had my first baby almost 16 years ago, and everything I do in this space is for my kids. This means so much to me, said Kardashian Barker upon accepting the Wellness Brand of the Year award.

This is such an incredible honor and such a full-circle, pinch-me moment, added Huck.

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For Dame Pat McGrath, who accepted the Launch of the Year award for Louis Vuittons foray into cosmetics, the moment was a long time coming.

Pat McGrath and Scott Friedman and Mehdi Mehdi at the 2025 Beauty Inc. Awards held at Lavan Midtown on November 18, 2025 in New York, New York.

I used to say the day that Louis Vuitton launches makeup, the world is going to stop, said McGrath, who worked with the French fashion house for years as its key makeup artist during fashion weeks and urged it to launch makeup before becoming creative director of La Beaute Louis Vuitton. As a makeup artist, a creative and a designer, its been an honor, and this is only the beginning  fasten your seatbelts.

Similarly, Cecred CEO Grace Ray, who accepted the award for Brand of the Year, Prestige, emphasized the company was just getting started when it came to redefining the hair care category.

When I joined Beyonce and Miss Tina to start this brand, we set out to help shift the narrative in hair and help push a new definition of what typical beautiful hair looked like, she said. The thing that were most proud of is helping people feel a deeper connection to their hair and create a community where people feel seen.

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To close out the event, WWD beauty editor-at-large Pete Born took to the stage to honor the late Leonard Lauder, who passed away in June at age 92. During his speech, Born reminisced on the last time he saw Lauder.

His face lit up like a Christmas tree when he saw me and he said, Its Pete Born, and I said, Its Pete Born, your oldest old friend. That was Leonard. He had a knack for making everyone feel special and Im so grateful to have known him, Born said. There will never, ever be another Leonard Lauder.

Here, the complete class of 2025 Beauty Inc award winners.

The Pete Born Impact Award: Nicolas Hieronimus

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Breakthrough Brand of the Year, Mass: Good Molecules

Breakthrough Brand of the Year, Prestige: Kayali

Innovator of the Year, Makeup: M.Ph by Mary Phillips

Innovator of the Year, Wellness: Olly Mood + Skin

Innovator of the Year, Hair: Crown Affair

Innovator of the Year, Skin Care: Medicube

Innovator of the Year, Fragrance: Rare Beauty

Deal of the Year: E.l.f Beautys Acquisition of Rhode

Excellence in Marketing: Valentino Born in Roma

Retailer of the Year: Mecca

Icon of the Year: Pantene Pro-V

Beauty Executive of the Year: Kecia Steelman, chief executive officer, Ulta Beauty

Brand of the Year, Prestige: Cecred

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Brand of the Year, Wellness: Lemme

Brand of the Year, Mass: Nyx Professional Makeup

Creator of the Year: Golloria George

Creative Force of the Year: Nicola Formichetti, global creative director, MAC Cosmetics

Launch of the Year: La Beaute Louis Vuitton

An Appreciation: Leonard A. Lauder

Launch Gallery: Inside the 2025 Beauty Inc Awards

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Meghan Markle and Prince Harry are planning a visit Down Under next year, according to a source.

A source tells Examiner that the Sussexes have been wanting to go back to Australia for a while now and are saying its a priority for next year, ideally in the first quarter.

The source notes that the With Love, Meghan host, 44, and the Spare author, 41, would love to bring their children, Archie, 6, and Lily, 3, along.

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Its a place that holds a lot of special memories for them, the source shares. It was the first royal tour they ever did, and Meghan was pregnant with Archie, so taking the kids back would be very meaningful.

However, Harrys brother, Prince William, is not happy about the upcoming visit, according to the source.

No doubt they will be treated like visiting royalty, and that is not sitting well with William, the source claims. He sees that kind of thing as fraudulent, and now that hes aware they are planning this trip down under, he will be reaching out to all his contacts there to let his feelings be known.

The source points out that in Williams eyes, hes just protecting the interests of the Crown as they are no longer [working] royals.

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Last month, Harry and Meghan sent a letter to celebrity astrologer Angela Pearl, dated October 24, expressing their interest in visiting Australia, per The Telegraph.

On a separate note, we hope your family in Ukraine remain safe, and we look forward to staying in touch, especially as we look to visit Australia again, the couple wrote, as Pearl is based in Australia, according to the outlet.

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This story Meghan Markle and Prince Harry Planning Australia Trip: Not Sitting Well With Prince William (Exclusive) first appeared on National Examiner. Add National Examiner as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Melania Trump is dressing to impress  the Saudi Arabian delegation, that is.

The first lady wore an emerald green strapless Elie Saab gown on Tuesday, Nov. 18, for the black tie dinner the White House hosted to welcome Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman. The evening, one of the first official White House dinners with a foreign leader of President Donald Trump's second term, was closely watched in part because the prince was once named by the CIA as having played a lead role in the killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi.

The first lady's attire was a rare form of showing public allegiance to her husbands goals to strengthen ties with the country.

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Melania Trump's presence, an uncommon occurrence at many of the White House's official events, marked the importance of the occasion and her choice of fabrics even more so. The deep green of the dress looked swatched from the flag of Saudi Arabia, which is all one color, adorned with a white sword and an Arabic phrase translated to "There is no deity but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God."

First lady Melania Trump prepares to greet Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025, in Washington, DC.

The first lady has largely taken a backseat during her husband's second White House stint, breaking with tradition and winnowing her role as a messenger of the administration. Tuesday's dinner marked an aberration, not only in Melania Trump's color choice, but also in the message from the designer behind the ruched, floor-length gown.

The dress, which was stitched with a fabric meant to mock leather, is from Lebanese designer Saab, The New York Times reports. Currently selling for $3,350, Saab's creation is significant in its White House wear in particular because he held one of the largest fashion shows ever in the Middle East last year. Where? In Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

The event was one of the most prominent during the Riyadh Fashion Season, a newish festival that is part of Bin Salman's Vision 2030 plan for the country, per the Times.

Melania Trump's every move has captured the public's imagination, like Michelle Obama before her, since she entered the White House in 2017.





Her outings are the source of fodder and constant attention from onlookers of her modern approach to the role of first lady.



In this photo, Trump is pictured with her son Barron Trump listen as President Donald Trump gives his inaugural address in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump, right, with Second Lady Usha Vance, Vice President JD Vance, President Donald Trump, former President Joe Biden and former First Lady Jill Biden depart on board during a farewell ceremony outside the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. on Jan. 20, 2025. First lady Melania Trump attends a luncheon following inauguration at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. Melania Trump and President Donald Trump arrive for the the Commander-in-Chief Ball on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump and arrive for the Liberty inaugural ball in Washington, D.C., on Jan. 20, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump board Air Force One at Asheville Regional Airport in Fletcher, North Carolina, on Jan. 24, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump attends a Hurricane Helene recovery briefing in a hangar at the Asheville Regional Airport in Fletcher, North Carolina, on Jan. 24, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump, President Donald Trump and California Gov. Gavin Newsom arrive to address the press at Los Angeles International Airport on Jan. 24, 2025. First Lady Melania and President Donald Trump arrive the National Governors Association Evening Dinner and Reception in the East Room of the White House on Feb. 22, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump walks to a meeting to urge passage of the Take It Down Act by the Senate, which protects victims of real and deepfake "revenge pornography" by criminalizing their publication, at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 3, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump speaks during a roundtable discussion on the Take It Down Act at the U.S. Capitol on March 3, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump arrives ahead of US President Donald Trump's address to a joint session of Congress in the House Chamber of the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., on March 4, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump delivers remarks during the International Women of Courage Award ceremony in the Ben Franklin Room at the State Department's Harry S. Truman headquarters on April 1, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump talks to reporters as she attends the White House Easter Egg Roll on the South Lawn on April 21, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump depart the White House on April 25, 2025 in Washington, D.C. President Trump and the first lady are traveling to Rome to attend the funeral of Pope Francis. First Lady Melania Trump, President Donald Trump, and Estonian President Alar Karis arrive for the funeral of Pope Francis in St. Peters Square on April 26, 2025 in Vatican City, Vatican. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump step off Air Force upon arrival at Newark Liberty International Airport in Newark, New Jersey on April 26, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump and Dorothy Bush Koch, daughter of Barbara Bush, arrive for the the unveiling of a U.S. Postal Service stamp honoring former first lady Barbara Bush in the East Room at the White House on May 8, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump arrive at the signing ceremony for the Take it Down Act in the Rose Garden of the White House on May 19, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump depart the White House on June 11, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump hold hands as they arrive to attend the opening night of "Les Miserables" at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., on June 11, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump shake hands with members of Congress and guests after giving remarks during the Congressional Picnic on the South Lawn of the White House June 12, 2025 in Washington, D.C.. Members of Congress from both the House and Senate were hosted by the White House in a decades long tradition intended to put partisanship aside for an evening. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump shake hands with members of Congress and guests after giving remarks during the Congressional Picnic on the South Lawn of the White House June 12, 2025 in Washington, D.C. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump attend the Army 250th Anniversary Parade in Washington, D.C., on June 14, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump takes part in an event with children during a visit at Children's National Hospital in Washington, D.C. on July 3, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump observe a military flyover from the Blue Room balcony of the White House during a Fourth of July celebration in Washington, D.C., on July 4, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump and President Donald Trump arrive to sign a sweeping spending and tax legislation, known as the "One Big Beautiful Bill Act," during a picnic with military families to mark Independence Day, at the White House in Washington, D.C., on July 4, 2025. President Donald Trump is reflected in First Lady's Melania Trump's sunglasses as they attend the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup final football match between England's Chelsea and France's Paris Saint-Germain at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, N.J., on July 13, 2025. First Lady Melania Trump meets military personal after a Beating Retreat military ceremony at Windsor Castle, Berkshire, on day two of the president's second state visit to the UK on Sept. 17, 2025 in Windsor, England. Queen Camilla, First Lady Melania Trump, Paula Reynolds, Prince William, Prince of Wales and Catherine, Princess of Wales attend the State visit by the President of the United States of America at Windsor Castle on Sept. 17, 2025 in Windsor, England. Catherine, Princess of Wales and First Lady Melania Trump talk in Frogmore Gardens during the State visit by the President and First Lady Melania Trump, on Sept. 18, 2025 in Windsor. Britain's Queen Camilla and First Lady Melania Trump tour the Royal Library at Windsor Castle, in Windsor, on Sept. 18, 2025. President Donald Trump, and First Lady Melania Trump arrive for the 80th session of the UNs General Assembly (UNGA) on Sept. 23, 2025 in New York City. First Lady Melania Trump speaks about communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the fate of Ukrainian children, in the Grand Foyer of the White House in Washington, DC, on Oct. 10, 2025. President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump greet kids dressed as President Donald Trump and First Lady Melania Trump with a Secret Service officer, as they host a Halloween event at the White House in Washington, DC on Oct. 30, 2025. First lady Melania Trump prepares to greet Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Melania Trump during second term: First lady's fashion, outings 1 of 36 Melania Trump's every move has captured the public's imagination, like Michelle Obama before her, since she entered the White House in 2017.





Her outings are the source of fodder and constant attention from onlookers of her modern approach to the role of first lady.



In this photo, Trump is pictured with her son Barron Trump listen as President Donald Trump gives his inaugural address in the U.S. Capitol Rotunda on Jan. 20, 2025, in Washington, D.C.

Trump's meeting with bin Salman marks a change in tone for the U.S. Despite a highly criticized human rights record, the Trump White House ushered in the Saudi Arabian crown prince for a glowing meeting brimming with promises of military and economic deals.

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Ignoring the urgings of human rights advocates, Trump dismissed concerns about bin Salman's alleged role in the murder of Washington Post journalist Khashoggi. "It's an honor to be your friend, and it's an honor that you're here," he told the prince in the Oval Office.

Contributing: Cybele Mayes-Osterman, Francesca Chambers, USA TODAY

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Melania Trump nods to Saudi flag with green gown for prince's visit


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On the internet in 2025, 15 minutes of fame are more like 15 seconds of fame. Someone can disappear from public consciousness just as quickly as they entered it with a simple scroll of your For You Page. This plight is something Brooklyns hottest line cook, Giovanni Gio Luciano (aka @giovanniskitchen ) knows well: I was just like, When is this gonna stop? When is this gonna end?

Luckily for the 24-year-old creator, his rise is more than a flash in a pan. Gio has racked up millions of views across several platforms from viral food haul videos that typically follow this formula: Gio cheekily smirking at the camera while he tells his eager followers, Heres what I eat before service as a line cook in Bushwick, showing off obscure arrangements of food in plastic quart containers, completing each meal with a cigarette (or two) for dessert.

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While the structure is clear-cuteven to the point of being deemed performative by some viewersits this content that has earned Gio a loyal audience. His following drools over every move their trans TikTok heartthrob makes, he has caught the attention of Addison Rae1 and King Princess,2 and he even scored a nomination for People magazines Sexiest TikToker of 2025. When I meet Gio for matchas in Bushwick, its just days after his Versace eyewear campaign (alongside Aimee Lou Wood and Joseph Quinn) dropped. And while Gios life has changed drastically in the past 10 months since he logged on and the internet swooned, he is working to retain some normalcy in his lifealthough something tells me Gios 15 minutes are just heating up.

1. Gio made a cameo in Addison Raes Times Like These music video, which you can enjoy here.

2. He also served as the toxic lover and muse in King Princesss Jamie music video.

chef eating off knife

Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

What was the last meal you had?

Well, Im eating a muffin right now. Theres a little bit of lemon in it. I think theres pistachio. It has a nice crisp on the top. Notes of lemon and some love.

Speaking of love, how did you fall in love with cooking?

Ive been cooking since I was a kid. My mom would always put on Top Chef, so I watched that growing up. And then in high school, when I would get bored, I started cooking and baking really late at night for some reason. But I wasnt really working in the kitchen fully until I was 19 or 20 at this chain restaurant in Massachusetts.

Is that where youre from?

No, Im from Georgia, but Ive lived in San Antonio, Houston, Las Vegas, Louisville, and Florida too. I've just moved around my whole life. I went to school for computer science in Massachusetts, but I dropped out after the fall semester.

So did you stay in Massachusetts after leaving school?

I eventually moved in with my dad in Daytona, and I worked my first scratch kitchen3 in Florida. But I learned a lot of things there. I learned the best way to julienne an onion, to be more loud in the kitchen, and what its like working with a bunch of guys because at the time, I hadnt even transitioned.

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3. For those of us less familiar with chef lingo, a scratch kitchen is basically a restaurant that prepares everything from scratch.

chef holding big fish

Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

Tell me more about that.

Well, you are treated very differently in that space as a woman versus as a man. And as a trans person, theres, like, different levels. Passing adds a whole other thing to how youre respected.

How did you get into posting your videos?

I was working 8- to 10-hour days at King in the West Village, and I was learning so much. Like, that restaurant taught me so much; the chef there is just really fantastic. But after a while, I was getting burnt out, and I was like, I want to make silly videos again.4

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One day, the front of house ate the family meal,5 and I was in a rush, so I ran to the deli and just sat on a stoop. I made a video showing what I was eating, and I got some positive responses so I decided to make a few more, just to make sure it wasnt a fluke because you know how TikTok trends come and go so quickly.

4. For newer followers of Gio, he actually used to make content that ranged from queer comedy to thirst traps (his words, not mine).

5. A family meal, per Gio, is essentially, a way to feed all of your staff while not wasting food that you maybe dont want to serve that night or that week.

Would you say cooking is your love language?

Yeah, I like to cook and bake for people and for events. I remember I made a bunch of cookies for PSL [Party for Socialism and Liberation] for purchase to raise money for Palestine. I just want to show that I care, which usually is through cooking. And if someone cooks for me, Im like, Thank god.

Someone please cook for Gio!

People will be like, Oh, Im so nervous to cook for you, but I dont care. Like, please cook for me.





Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

Now I have to ask the million-dollar question: Whats your relationship status?

Im taken.

Do you ever post about this?

Not really, I like to keep it private.

Well, what would you say is an ideal date night?

I like dinner and a movie.

Whats a great movie you would suggest people watch on a date night?

The first movie I watched with my girlfriend was 10 Things I Hate About You. Its an essential 90s rom-com. Its perfect.

What would you say is the perfect meal to cook for someone if you want to impress them?

If you make pasta from scratch, thats love. Youre kneading dough for, like, at least 20 minutes. You throw in some garlic, some anchovies or maybe some capers, and butter, emulsify it, and make a sauce. Or the pasta I made for my pop-up6 was a butter sauce with pancetta, toasted pecans, Parmesan, and fried sage.

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6. On September 15, Gio, alongside his friends, hosted a pop-up at La Cantine in Bushwick where he curated a special menu. And dont you worry if you missed the first onehe says he definitely plans on doing more in the future.





Im sure you get a lot of wild DMS. Do you remember off the top of your head the most outlandish one youve ever gotten?

Ive just had people that are, like, high and going through psychosis or something. And Ive gotten it, like, three times.

Oh god, did you respond to them?

No, it scared me, honestly. I do wish them well.

Okay, real talk: Is it a red flag or a green flag to bring a date to a DJ set?

How long have you been dating?

Hypothetically, its a first date.

Red flag, red flag! Why would you have someone watch you play for at least an hour? That just seems very selfish to me when youre trying to get to know them. Have you done this?

chef sitting in chair with hands on head

Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

No, thank god! How did you get into DJing?

I was really big into EDM when I was, like, 11. I was really into Deadmau5 and Skrillex, and then I was trying to do Virtual DJ when I was 13 or 14. I fell off a little bit because my dad was like, You cant keep being in your room. But I recently came back to it when my roommate gave me her DJ board, which is really, really sweet of her. I started practicing and learning. But the DJ community here is very sweet. Its so queer and accepting.

Its really been a part of your life for a while.

Music has always been there for me. Ive always listened to house music or techno music, ever since I was a kid, so its nice to finally do a full circle and be like, Wow. Im actually doing this thing that I wanted to do when I was like 12 years old.

So its safe to say you are definitely not performative at all.

No, I think Im very sarcastic and thats really hard to read on the internet. I guess the people who do are the right people.

Speaking of music, youve been in many music videos at this point. Some might say youre a muse now.

If any pop star would like me in their music video, hit me up.

chef squeezing tomato

Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

What was the best part of your day when you were on set with Addison Rae?

The whole experience was nice. Its fun to just shoot and do something Ive always had an interest in. I went to school a little bit for film! But Addisons really a very sweet, nice person, and I really liked seeing her, like, snap and turn on. I was very proud to be in that video.

And what about the King Princess video?

It was really nice to act a little bit more. It was just really, really nice to be around queer people and making art. I just really love music and film, so to be a part of the marriage of the two was very special.

Do you want to do more acting?

Yeah, Im doing a short film called Marshland.7 Its about a trans man in rural Oregon trying to find his way in community and being accepted and trying to just be himself. We need more stories like that.

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7. Directed by Ray Chambers, the film is currently in post-production.

Youre staying busy. Also, congrats on being one of Peoples Sexiest TikToker nominees! This makes you the second trans man in history ever to be nominated in any category. How does all of this feel?

Its very much an honor. Like, my mom read those magazines! It was really surreal. Its a big honor. Shoutout to whoever nominated me.

chef sitting in chair leaning over back

Rona Liana Ahdout - Hearst Owned

Obviously, your life has changed so much in the past few months, but have your future goals changed?

Theres so many routes you can go with cookingand also DJingso I think trying to go from there is where Im headed. I just want to do something with music, cooking, and acting. And I think at least having that as a starting point is great. Thats the trifecta.

A triple threat, some might say.

Im a person who likes to put my hands in many basketsits always how I've been. Im really trying to broaden my brain and my knowledge and grow myself.

Would you say youve learned more in the kitchen or from TikTok?

Id have to say the kitchen.

Whats the most impactful thing youve learned?

Just that feeding people is great. Thats how we live. Connecting with everyone in the community is probably the most rewarding part. And I do it with Tiktok as well. Im making a community there. Ive learned how important it is to connect with people.

Parts of this interview have been edited and condensed for clarity.

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On the individual side, Blackstones private wealth channel manages some $288 billion. Through its partnerships with top-tier financial advisors, Blackstone provides its individual clients with access to private markets and institutional-quality investment opportunities. The companys Private Capital Group deals with the elite of the worlds wealthy  ultra-high-net-worth individuals, along with their endowments, foundations, multi-family offices, and other diverse holdings.

Blackstone is a champion of investment diversification, working with institutional and individual clients, as well as financial advisers, family offices, endowments, and foundations. The companys institutional positions have realized $417 billion in gains for its clients  a client base that includes retirement systems representing more than 100 million pensioners.

Well start in the world of asset management, with a look at Blackstone Group. Blackstone is a giant in its field; since its founding in 1985, it has grown to become the worlds largest alternative asset management company, and currently has approximately $1.24 trillion in total assets under management. These assets include more than 250 portfolio companies and over 12,500 real estate investments. The company uses the income from these investments to fuel further ventures into dynamic business sectors with potential for long-term growth.

Weve gotten a start on this, using the Insiders Hot Stocks tool from TipRanks to spot shares where insiders have been taking advantage of recent pullbacks, and where Morgan Stanleys analysts are also on board. Heres a closer look at two of them.

Furthermore, when a major investment bank like Morgan Stanley reinforces that view with Buy ratings, it adds another layer of conviction. Those are the names investors may want to revisit.

Subscribe to TipRanks' Smart Investor Picks and see our data in action through our high-performing model portfolio - now also 60% off

Investors are always looking for a signal pointing to the stocks that could outperform, and insider moves are one of the most reliable ones available. By insiders we mean high-level corporate officers  the company directors and C-suite executives  with responsibility to Boards and shareholders for ensuring profits and returns. Their roles give them a closer view of their companies trajectory, and when they choose to step in and buy shares on a dip, it often reflects confidence in the outlook.

Story continues

All of this is big business, and through it, Blackstone generated over $13 billion in revenues last year. The companys stock has been on something of a roller coaster in 2025, with the shares ultimately down 20% for the year-to-date, and 14% for the past month. Even with those recent losses, Blackstone still boasts a market cap of $172 billion.

Looking at Blackstones more immediate results, we see that the companys top line in the last reported quarter, 3Q25, came to $3.09 billion. This was down more than 15% year-over-year, and missed the forecast by $20 million. On a more positive note, the companys distributable earnings per share (DEPS) came to $1.52 for the quarter, which was 29 cents per share better than had been expected. The DEPS directly and fully supported the companys dividend, which was set at $1.29 per common share, with a payment date of November 10. The dividend annualizes to $5.16 per common share and gives a forward yield of 3.7%.

The most recent informative insider stock purchase here was made by James Breyer, a member of Blackstones Board of Directors. On November 4, Breyer purchased 13,900 shares for nearly $2 million. This purchase brought his total stake in the company to $9.75 million.

Morgan Stanley analyst Michael Cyprys covers this asset management giant and takes an upbeat view. He sees Blackstones positions in real estate as advantageous, as well as the overall high quality of its portfolio.

We see BX as a best-in-class private markets brand thats attractively positioned to benefit from improving real estate sentiment and quality & diversified franchise to weather the NT credit concerns and benefit from increasing capital markets activity We see the cap mkts recovery building and see BX as among the best placed alts asset mgrs as the private mkts flywheel spins faster, boosting EPS outlook. We also see BX among the best positioned for growth in the private wealth channel and emerging opportunities in retirement/401(k).

Further, the analyst added, we see another stool to support real assets growth, thats fueled by the AI revolution and data center buildout globally, which will require massive capital funding. BX is also poised to benefit from a cyclical recovery, particularly as real estate sentiment improves and transactions accelerate.

These comments support the Morgan Stanely analysts Overweight (i.e., Buy) rating, while his $215 price target implies a one-year upside potential of 55%. (To watch Cypryss track record, click here)

Looking at the ratings breakdown, analysts are split right down the middle when it comes to BX. 6 Buys vs 6 Holds coalesce to a Moderate Buy consensus view. The stock is currently priced at $138.42, and its $182.50 average target price points toward an upside of 32% on the one-year horizon. (See BX stock forecast)

Cheniere Energy (LNG)

For the next stock on our list, well move over to the energy sector. Cheniere Energy specializes in preparing liquefied natural gas (LNG) for the export market. This puts the Houston, Texas-based company at the center of a major segment in the global energy market. Cheniere has been in the energy business since 1996 and, in 2016, became the first US company to export LNG to the global market.

Today, Cheniere is the largest US liquefied natural gas exporter and the second-largest producer of LNG globally. The company generated $15.7 billion in revenue from its business last year, and even after recent share price losses  the stock currently sits 16.5% below its 52-week peak  it still has a market cap of ~$46 billion.

Chenieres business is centered on the Gulf Coast of the United States, particularly around Sabine Pass, Louisiana, and Corpus Christi, Texas. The company purchases natural gas from producers in the US and converts it to LNG at its liquefaction facilities, dubbed trains. Cheniere has 12 such trains in operation and exports LNG to 45 markets and regions around the world. The company employs 1,700 people, and since it began exporting LNG in 2016, it has shipped out 4,370 cargoes. Looking ahead, Cheniere management has stated that they expect the company will reach a major milestone next year by exporting more than 50 million metric tons of LNG.

Chenieres 3Q25 report, released at the end of October, showed revenues of $4.44 billion. While up 18% year-over-year, this figure came in below the forecast, missing by $43.15 million. The companys bottom line, reported as a diluted net income per share attributable to common stockholders, was up year-over-year from $3.93 to $4.75  and it beat the forecast by $1.86 per share. The company generated $1.6 billion in distributable cash flow for the third quarter and, as of September 30 this year, had available cash and other liquid assets totaling $1.075 billion.

This stocks recent insider buy came from Board of Directors member Benjamin Moreland, who picked up 5,000 shares for ~$1.04 million on November 4. Moreland currently holds $2.12 million worth of LNG stock.

When we turn to the Morgan Stanley take on Cheniere, we find that 5-star analyst Devin McDermott is upbeat on the companys future prospects. He writes of the LNG firm, Cheniere remains the dominant US LNG player and is structurally advantaged compared to peers given its scale, low-cost expansion opportunities, and existing platform of stable cash flows backed by long-term contracts. Over the next several years, rising FCF supports growing dividends and share repurchases. Chenieres strong cash flow (12% run-rate yield on the existing platform, including CCL Stage 3 and Trains 8-9), downside protection from existing contracts, and attractive growth all underpin our Overweight rating.

Along with his stated Overweight (i.e., Buy) rating, McDermott puts a $258 price target on Chenieres stock, implying a gain of 20% for the year ahead. (To watch McDermotts track record, click here)

Overall, all 13 of the analyst reviews here are positive, for a unanimous Strong Buy consensus rating. The shares are trading at $215.21, and their average target price of $271 suggests a 26% upside by this time next year. (See LNG stock forecast)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.

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Prince William's latest look was reminiscent of an outfit recently worn by Prince Harry

The Prince of Wales, 43, and the Duke of Sussex, 41, both sported black tuxedos with velvet jackets to glam events in November

Prince William's velvet jacket coordinated with Kate Middleton's gown at the Royal Variety Performance on Nov. 19

Prince William's latest look happened to match an outfit recently worn by his brother, Prince Harry.

On Nov. 19, Prince William and his wife, Kate Middleton, attended the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall in London, the annual fundraiser for the Royal Variety Charity that's been a staple on the royal family's calendar for generations.

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The Prince and Princess of Wales, both 43, matched their fashion by wearing velvet for their first return to the red carpet in two years.

Princess Kate wore a deep green velvet gown with Queen Elizabeth's Greville Chandelier earrings, while Prince William sported a tuxedo featuring a black velvet jacket with a white shirt, a black bow tie and black pants.

Chris Jackson/Getty Kate Middleton and Prince William attend the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall on Nov. 19, 2025. Kate Middleton and Prince William attend the Royal Variety Performance at Royal Albert Hall on Nov. 19, 2025.

The Prince of Wales' dapper fashion called back to a similar look recently worn by his estranged brother, the Duke of Sussex.

On Nov. 8, Prince Harry, 41, wore a very similar tuxedo to Kris Jenner's 70th birthday bash in Beverly Hills.

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The James Bond-themed party was held at Jeff Bezos' home, and Harry leaned into the theme by sporting a black tuxedo with a black velvet jacket, white shirt, black bowtie and black trousers.

He added a red poppy to his lapel to commemorate Remembrance, pinning on the flower popularly worn by members of the British royal family in early November to commemorate lives lost in war.

Speaking to PEOPLE about the event, a source said of Meghan and Harry, "They arrived hand-in-hand and looked very happy."

The Hollywood JR / BACKGRID Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party in Beverly Hills on Nov. 8, 2025. Prince Harry and Meghan Markle arrive at Kris Jenner's 70th birthday party in Beverly Hills on Nov. 8, 2025.

"Meghan was glowing in a black wrap-style dress that showed off one leg. She looked very glamorous and fit the theme perfectly. Harry looked sharp in a tuxedo with a poppy for Remembrance Day," the source said.

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On Nov. 9, which is Remembrance Day in the U.K., fans spotted that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex had been removed from a carousel of photos that Jenner and Kim Kardashian shared to Instagram.

PEOPLE understood that the photos were deleted because the Sussexes had checked "no" on a photo consent form, but a source close to the event disputed it and said, "There were no consent forms."

As for William's latest fashion statement, the heir to the throne seems to have a penchant for velvet, with velvet tuxedo jackets and blazers in his collection.

Andrew Parsons / Kensington Palace Prince William at the Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Nov. 5, 2025. Prince William at the Earthshot Prize Awards Ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil on Nov. 5, 2025.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

The Prince of Wales recently wore another black velvet tuxedo jacket to the 2025 Earthshot Prize awards ceremony in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, on Nov. 5, the annual "Superbowl moment" for his prestigious global environmental contest.

The Tom Ford tuxedo with an all-velvet jacket and black bow tie were already in his closet, creating a sustainable statement that fits with the Earthshot mission.



Read the original article on People
New details emerged as Walton Goggins reflected on the horseback accident that left him unable to stand on his own during a trip through rural Mongolia. In the interview, he walked through the moment his horse went down. He also detailed the immediate aftermath that forced him to rely entirely on his son.

Walton Goggins comments on horse crash

During a GQ interview, Walton Goggins described the near-death moment that occurred while traveling with his 14-year-old son, Augustus. He recounted the incident after completing three consecutive television shoots and experiencing a year of unprecedented visibility. The report noted that on the third day of their two-week ride, his horse stumbled, taking Goggins down with her, which left him struggling to stand before he collapsed in pain.

Goggins confirmed that he immediately recognized the seriousness of the situation. He said he checked himself, thought, Okay, my legs not broken, and then fell again. Goggins stated that Advil and yak milk vodka helped him through the first night and acknowledged he knew he had broken a rib with nine days left to ride. He told his son, You are going to have to take care of me, man. I cant do it. You got to help me.

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The situation forced Augustus to take on responsibilities that altered the dynamic of the trip. Goggins said, By the end of it, when we got picked up in the desert, he was a different person, identifying the physical and emotional demands placed on both father and son during the remainder of the journey.

When asked whether the airborne moment before impact made him consider the possibility of dying, Goggins replied, Like, Im gonna die? and then added, I dont think thats how Im going to go out. He said, I dont know how Im going to go out. I dont know if its a long swim in the Mediterranean and I just never come back, float away. I dont know if its by lightning. He followed with, Lightning would be, yeah. That would be okay.

The post Walton Goggins on the Horse Crash That Left Him Helpless appeared first on Mandatory.
Albuquerque Film and Music Experience Founder talks on Robert Redfords impact

NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  For more than a decade, the Albuquerque Film and Music Experience has brought together stars from the screen and stage for a week-long celebration at venues across the city. The fan favorite might not be where it is today without the guidance and inspiration of one of Hollywoods greatest.

Every September, independent cinema, music, and community take center stage as part of the Albuquerque Film and Music Experience, or AFMX to those in the know. Since its first year back in 2013, the festival has welcomed the likes of Jeff Bridges, Marisa Tomei, T Bone Burnett, Bryan Cranston, Giancarlo Esposito, and a man who knew a thing or two about film festivals himself  Hollywood icon and activist, Robert Redford.

I think thats one of the things Bob and I connected on immediately Relationships that were genuine and true relationships where, you wanted to do for other people, where you could, said AFMX Founder Ivan Wiener. He has a long history of connecting people. In the early 2000s, he found himself working as a concierge in DC at the infamous Watergate hotel.

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You know, when, when we first really sat down to talk and, he asked me, you know, about my background, said Ivan. And when I told him I was the head concierge of the Watergate hotel, that turned into, like, a two hour conversation just about All the Presidents Men.

The two men originally met at the Sundance Film Festival in 2008. Ivan was working as a personal assistant for the late actor Dennis Hopper at that time, and accompanied the Easy Rider star to a film premiere in Utah.

So we arrived in Salt Lake City, you know, take a limo from the airport up to the hotel in Park City. And, that evening, he said, hey, were going to a party. You know, its just invite only, you know, make sure you dress nice. And so, Dennis has always dress really impeccably. Well, whenever he went to events. And, we get to this event and Robert Redfords there, Im like, oh, well, the founder of Sundance and Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid, said Ivan.

When we asked Ivan what meeting Redford was like, this is what he said. So, you know, so I met him very briefly. I mean, the room was abuzz and of course, you know, he he founded Sundance, you know, so I was just like, wow, Robert Redford, I, you know, I dont get starstruck because of the industry that I was in as a concierge and took care of so many people over the years and, you know, when Bob walked up to say hi to Dennis and I shook his hand, it was just When he said, hey, very nice to meet you,' said Ivan. This sincere look in his eye of him not being a movie star, but him being this incredible human being thats bringing people together and connecting people

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Its a similar role Ivan has played throughout his professional life, and a guiding principle of AFMX. In 2012, Ivan was contacted by staff of Former Mayor Richard Berrys office, pressing him to curate a film festival in the Duke City, in the wake of the now-defunct Albuquerque Film Festival.

And then I got a call from Bob himself directly, and he was like, what do we need to do to create an event here in New Mexico that does have betterment for the community? And thats where I came up with the ten page business plan for AFMX, said Ivan. So, I called Bobs assistance, scheduled a time to go to the house, took the business plan with me, walked in, sat down with Billy and Bob. They read through it and Bob just clapped his hands with that Redford smile and said, Fantastic. Lets move forward and getting this done, Im going to be your first guest.'

Redford was no stranger to New Mexicos long legacy of filmmaking. He directed the academy-award winning picture, The Milagro Beanfield War throughout northern New Mexico  his second gig in the directors chair after winning the Oscar for Ordinary People on his first outing in 1981. He later served as executive producer on Drunktowns Finest, as well as the AMC series, Dark Winds.

And while Redford is considered Hollywood royalty, he always kept his feet on the ground, focused on the work. At the festival, after his experience at AFMX , he came to me and he was just like, youre ten years ahead of where we were in our first year of Sundance,' said Ivan. And I couldnt believe it. I couldnt let that sink in because, you know, Im thinking, this is Robert Redford. You know, one of the biggest movie stars in the world who started Sundance and, you know, invited as independent film friends there. But he was up front of the Egyptian Theater in year one of Sundance. Handing out tickets for free, trying to get people to come in. The town of Park City did not want that attention on their little sleepy ski town. What its turned into now is $500 million a year in economic impact.

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Throughout the years, Ivan says the Redford family continued their support and guidance for AFMX, as well as developing a close friendship. As the world mourned the passing of Robert Redford in September of 2025, the festival staff and army of volunteers continued their mission of collaboration and creative networking in the spirit of the Sundance founder.

And as Ivan says, one things for sure Redfords impact on New Mexicos film community will live on for generations to come. I always go back to, you know, if it wasnt for Redfords being involved with the festival, it would not be what it is today, said Ivan.

Festival organizers held a celebration of Redfords life this past September at the festival.

Film submissions for AFMX 2026 will open next month.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
Editors Note: This review was originally published during the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. Cutting Through Rocks opens at Film Forum in New York City on Friday, November 21.

Sara Khaki and Mohammadreza Eynis precisely lensed Cutting Through Rocks is a deftly shaped work of cinematic nonfiction that opens with a literal bang, as we cut from a black screen to a middle-aged, headscarf-clad woman wrestling with a metal door thats become unhinged; eventually she decides to buzzsaw through the surrounding stone enclosure to make it fit back in. Its an apt metaphor for the formidable Sara Shahverdi, a longtime divorcee in a deeply religious region of northwest Iran  a woman whos spent most of her life flouting gender norms and giving the finger to convention. The former midwife is also a vocal advocate for the empowerment of women and girls, which includes access to education and an end to child marriage. And, of course, shes also an advocate for the right to ride a motorcycle, her greatest passion of all.

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But perhaps most surprising is that so much of Shahverdis family and community admire her, enough so that she running to become the first elected councilwoman in her remote village might not actually be so farfetched. Which is how, while researching female entrepreneurs in their native land, the films US-based co-directors first became aware of the strong-willed candidate, and decided to follow the rebels unusual grassroots campaign.

Inevitably, the team of married filmmakers got more than they bargained for, and ended up embedding with their heroine and her community off and on for seven years, starting with Shahverdis large clan. Its at her mothers house that were first introduced to her six sisters and three younger brothers (and their extended families), the latter of whom would go on to try to swindle the female siblings  though wisely, not Shahverdi  out of their long-deceased fathers inheritance. That inevitably leads to a showdown that causes such a ruckus that one brother simply hands over the deceptively signed document for Shahverdi to rip up. Sara rebelled today and started a coup!, a relieved sister jokingly exclaims.

And then its on to the intimate gatherings of supportive female constituents, which arent campaign stops so much as they are a wily excuse to spread the girl power word. Shahverdi cautions one rather awestruck crowd that she cant upend the sclerotic system alone. You all need to want change. To another room she orders, Show of hands, how many of you are truly happy? After some nervous chuckling, the rousing speech continues. People say, Sara, you are the exception. You are different from the rest of us. I am no different. If you fight for what you want, believe me, youre all like me. She adds that when men ask why she isnt feminine she replies, Im comfortable the way I am. The demurely covered ladies seem equal parts skeptical and amused.

As they should be. For what Shahverdi doesnt quite seem to grasp is that they arent all just like her. Thrust into the role of breadwinner at 16 when her father passed away, shed always been brought up to be the son her dad had yet to have. As the last in a long line of sisters, Shahverdi was taught not only to ride motorcycles and work construction  but, crucially, to ignore gender norms. Permitted to go where the boys went and to dress as she pleased, its no wonder Shahverdi felt free. It was circumstances beyond the nonconformists control that allowed her to be comfortable in her own skin. A believer might even say it was her fate, and Eyni and Khakis methodically controlled direction allows Cutting Through Rocks to sustain the momentum that some might interpret as predestination.

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Shrewdly, however, Shahverdi also makes the rounds touting bread and butter issues like bringing fuel to the village, which is music to voters ears. As a former midwife, shes likewise the only candidate running whos literally delivered a generation of her constituency  400 people, to be exact  who in turn rally to the cause, which leads to the unlikely groundbreaker being elected with the most votes. Though naturally the community she serves also includes those she did not bring into the world: the elderly men whove long held power and are loathe to relinquish it. And complicating matters further, one of her younger brothers has also been elected, and hes not about to let his big sister emasculate him in public.

Nevertheless, Shahverdi views her election as a mandate and wastes no time shaking things up. She visits a classroom of young girls and makes them sign a pledge to continue their education. When the male council members refuse to give her the village seal  the only means to stamp official documents  she simply takes it. And swiftly uses it for the paperwork that will finalize a husbands agreement to split ownership of his house with his wife (now a prerequisite for gas to flow to any residency). When a distraught teacher calls to ask the newly elected official to intervene in the upcoming marriage of a 16-year old girl (already in the process of getting a divorce) she not only meets with the parents, but ends up convincing them to let her take their daughter in.

But of course bold moves prompt fierce backlash  against not just Shahverdi but those who want to follow in her shoes. Or as the uncle of one of the motorcycle enthusiasts who Shahverdi is teaching puts it, Give girls shoes, just not paths. Its one thing for a community to back a woman, another to allow for a feminist revolution. So by the time Shahverdis health begins to decline due to stress shes faced with an existential threat, a challenge to her very identity. Its quite a lot of drama for one individual to experience. Not to mention two filmmakers to fit on the big screen.

And yet Khaki and Eyni do. Through majestic overhead shots of Shahverdi (and her young girl gang) speeding through the mountain-cradled landscape, alternated with intimate closeups (Shahverdis expressive face sometimes speaks louder than her words), were brought closer to a world both foreign and undoubtedly familiar. The result of an East-meets-West gaze (the fast-paced editing and Euro-tinged score emphasize the latter) that hits all the right (i.e., liberal) feminist beats. Which actually makes smart sense if the goal is to connect us to a plight halfway across the globe. And besides, as Shahverdi herself concludes after ultimately eschewing sweeping gestures, sometimes a small step is enough.

Grade: B

Cutting Through Rocks premiered at the 2025 Sundance Film Festival. It opens Friday, November 21 at Film Forum in New York City.

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One chat to rule them all.

Dominic Monaghan has offered a rare peek inside the private group chat he shares with his Lord of the Rings co-stars, and what the four Hobbits are actually texting about more than two decades after saving Middle-earth.

Monaghan, who played the ever-loyal Merry Brandybuck in Peter Jacksons Oscar-winning trilogy, revealed that the actors still keep multiple threads going, including one exclusively for the Shires finest.

Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan in a promo for The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Warner Bros/Courtesy Everett Collection

Dominic Monaghan revealed that he and some of his Lord of the Rings co-stars share a group chat.

The other three members of the tight-knit Hobbit fellowship include Elijah Wood (Frodo Baggins), Sean Astin (Samwise Gamgee) and Billy Boyd (Pippin Took), all of whom have remained famously close since filming wrapped on the early-2000s fantasy epic.

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We have different text chains. That one is just called Shire Folk, and thats just full of Hobbits, Monaghan, who stars in the newly-released Western flick Long Shadows, told The Post. Whos the most talkative? It depends on what were talking about.

If were talking about SAG-related politics and issues? Sean Astin, he continued. If were talking about food and travel and cinema? Probably me or Elijah. If were talking about dogs and funny dog photos? Then probably Billy. (The Rudy actor was just elected the next SAG-AFTRA president.)

Elijah Wood, Dominic Monaghan, Billy Boyd and Sean Astin arrive at a Lord of the Rings party during the 54th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, on May 13, 2001. Getty Images

Dominic Monaghan, Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd and Sean Astin in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. New Line Cinema/courtesy Everet

But the conversations also shift depending on who starts the chatter, and what obsession is currently sweeping the Shire.

So it just depends on what were talking about, Monaghan, 48, shared. Generally, well all do the mini New York Times crossword and Wordle every day. So we try and get all four Hobbits to do a sub-minute crossword. Elijah and I are usually sub-minute. Sean Astin tends to struggle, but every so often does. But its usually Elijah and me.

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Their constant travel for fan conventions, which have surged in demand as Jacksons trilogy cements its legacy as one of the most beloved film series ever made, has also become part of the routine  along with a pact that Monaghan says keeps them sane.

And then wherever we go, Elijah and I made it very clear that on these trips, they can all become a bit of a blur, where youre not aware of what city youre in because youre signing stuff and thats about it, he explained.

The Lost alum revealed that he, Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd and Sean Astin try to message one another every day.

Monaghan said that he and his fellow Hobbits play Worlde and the New York Times mini crossword every day.

Elijah and I said to the other two boys, we have to go for dinner at least once just to make a difference to the convention, because you could be in Denver, you could be in Los Angeles, you could be in Maine, or wherever, he added. So we go for dinner.

Food, naturally, has its own dedicated side-channel, like a modern extension of the same bond the four built while shooting on location in New Zealand for years.

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Elijah and I are quite obsessive about researching restaurants, Monaghan revealed. So once we know the city that were in, then Elijah and I  very often on a separate feed  will start sending each other little things like this review in Reddit, and these guys in Yelp, and this got a good review on Facebook. Then well cross-reference, and then well decide.

Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan in The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring. Courtesy Everett Collection

Elijah Wood, Dominic Monaghan, Sean Astin and Billy Boyd during the 76th annual Academy Awards in Hollywood, California, on Feb. 29, 2004. WireImage

As for Samwise and Pippin?

Sean and Billy will go wherever we go, Monaghan joked. So it tends to be restaurant chatter, and then photos of kids and photos of dogs and any film that we might have seen. We were all talking about the recent Paul Thomas Anderson film.

So yeah, its a bit of everything, really, he added. Hobbits chatting.

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Elsewhere during his chat about Long Shadows, Monaghan revealed whether he might appear in the next Lord of the Rings flick.

Dominic Monaghan attends the premiere of The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim in London, England, on Dec. 3, 2024. Getty Images

Elijah Wood, Dominic Monaghan, Sean Astin and Billy Boyd appear during a special screening of The Lord of the Rings: Return of the King in New York City on Dec. 16, 2003. Getty Images

Im still super tight with Pete Jackson and his team, and I think I will probably go to New Zealand next year when they are filming The Hunt for Gollum, which obviously my great friend Andy Serkis is going to star in and direct, he told The Post.

I think some other people from Lord of the Rings are going down there too, Monaghan continued. I would like to be on set just to lend support to Andy and say hello to people.

But while the Lost alum is excited to visit the set when The Hunt for Gollum begins filming next year, he doesnt expect to appear in the film as Merry Brandybuck  especially because Merry isnt necessarily involved in anything important at that point in the Middle-earth mythos.

Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd during the There and Back Again: A Lord of the Rings Cast Reunion in Chicago, Illinois, on April 11, 2025. WireImage

Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Andy Serkis, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd during the There and Back Again: A Lord of the Rings Cast Reunion in Chicago, Illinois, on April 11, 2025. WireImage

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I think hes probably still enjoying pints of beer in the local pub and being a young man growing up in The Shire, Monaghan explained. So we have talked about stuff, and who knows.

However, that doesnt mean Monaghan wouldnt make a blink-and-you-miss-it cameo as his Hobbit character if Serkis wanted him to.

If Andy says to me, Put on a floppy hat and a cape and go stand 300 feet over there, and well just see a blurry figure in the distance,' he shared. So if Andys like, You can do something in the background, then of course, maybe.

But at this point its just an opportunity to go see friends, the Moonhaven alum reiterated.

Sean Astin, Elijah Wood, Dominic Monaghan, Billy Boyd and John Rhys-Davies during the There and Back Again: A Lord of the Rings Cast Reunion in Chicago, Illinois, on April 11, 2025. WireImage

As for Long Shadows, Monaghan was excited to climb up onto the saddle for his first-ever Western movie.

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Set in the fading days of the Wild, Wild West, the movie follows a lone drifter named Marcus Dollar (Blaine Maye) as he seeks to avenge the brutal murder of his parents.

Besides Maye as Marcus Dollar and Monaghan as Ned Duxbury, the Western thriller also stars The Family Stone star Dermot Mulroney as Dallas Garrett.

Dominic Monaghan during Dragon Con in Atlanta, Georgia, on August 31, 2024. Getty Images

Dominic Monaghan opened up about his newest movie, Long Shadows, and how he was excited to play an original and new character.

Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan and Billy Boyd arrive at the Kodak Theatre in Los Angeles for the 76th Academy Awards on Feb. 29, 2004. PA Images via Getty Images

I hadnt done a Western before, and it felt like something that I was potentially doing as a little tribute to my dad, Monaghan told The Post. And the character that I played just seemed to be a little bit of a livewire.

Hes clearly struggling with drinking or an overexcess of drinking alcohol, he continued. And that makes him someone thats a little hard to predict. And hes a bit of a grifter and a bit of a crook at the same time.

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The character of Ned Duxbury, Monaghan explained, was what pulled him to the William Shockley-directed film in the first place.

So I am always looking for some opportunity to play a new character, the Lord of the Rings star concluded. And he did seem like an original new character to me.

Long Shadows is now in theaters.




Netflix released a new documentary Wednesday that examines former Connecticut resident Nathan Carman and the death of his mother, Linda, at sea.

"The Carman Family Deaths" delves into the 2016 disappearance of Linda Carman and her son on a fishing trip off Block Island.

The two set sail on Nathan Carman's boat, the Chicken Pox, on the night of Sept. 17, 2016. The two were expected to return by noon the next day, but when authorities learned that the boat had not returned, the Coast Guard began an extensive search and rescue mission.

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Eight days after setting sail, Nathan Carman was found alone in a life raft. The former Middletown resident was rescued by a commercial ship and his mother was never found.

A Vermont grand jury indicted Nathan Carman on May 2, 2022. The nine-page indictment charged Carman with murder in connection with the death of his mother and multiple counts of fraud. Carman pleaded not guilty to first-degree murder and the fraud charges.

Image of Nathan Carman and Clark Carman in "The Carman Family Deaths." (Courtesy of Netflix)





Carman was found unresponsive in his cell at a New Hampshire prison months ahead of his scheduled trial in 2023. He was 29 years old.

In addition to Linda Carman, Netflix's documentary examines the unsolved 2013 murder of Nathan Carman's grandfather, millionaire real estate developer John Chakalos. Prosecutors alleged in Nathan Carman's indictment that he shot and killed his wealthy grandfather at his Windsor home in 2013, but Carman was never charged with the death.

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The Netflix documentary features interviews with Nathan Carman's father, Clark Carman, one of Linda Carman's sisters and investigators from the Coast Guard, local police and the FBI. Wired journalist Evan Lubofsky also weighs in on the case, according to Netflix's Tudum.

Contains previous reporting by Liz Hardaway and Lisa Backus.

Correction: This story has been updated to reflect that the documentary was released Wednesday.

This article originally published at Netflix releases 'The Carman Family Deaths' documentary about former CT resident Nathan Carman.
Hollywood may be a youth-obsessed industry when it comes to turning out movies, but with one of the first groups to nominate the years best films the opposite is the rule of the day.

AARP on Wednesday announced nominees for its annual Movies for Grownups Awards aimed at championing films and TV achievements that appeal to the age 50-plus readers and membership of their organization. Hamnet, A House of Dynamite, One Battle After Another, Sinners and Train Dreams received Best Picture/Best Movie for Grownups nominations; that they all are also prime contenders for Best Picture Oscar nominations might also tell us something about the average age of voters for Academy Awards as well.

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Dont look for Timothee Chalamet, Sydney Sweeney, Emma Stone, Michael B. Jordan or other major acting contenders on this list. You gotta be 50 or older to make this cut. Welcome Leonardo DiCaprio, though  he just turned 51.

These nominees prove that powerful storytelling transcends age. At AARP, we believe representation matters  not just for audiences, but for the industry itself, said Myechia Minter-Jordan, CEO of AARP. By honoring these actors and creators, were shining a light on the richness, depth, and diversity of experience that deserves to be seen and celebrated.

The annual MFG Awards ceremony will take place January 10, 2026, at the Beverly Wilshire. Alan Cumming, the Tony- and Emmy-winning host of the The Traitors, will return to host. The ceremony, which also will include Adam Sandler receiving the organizations Career Achievement Award, will be broadcast by PBS Great Performances on February 22.

Jessie Buckley in a scene from the movie Hamnet

Here is the full list of nominees:

Best Picture/Best Movie for Grownups

Hamnet

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A House of Dynamite

One Battle After Another

Sinners

Train Dreams

Best Actress

Laura Dern

Is This Thing On?

Jodie Foster

A Private Life

Lucy Liu

Rosemead

Julia Roberts

After the Hunt

June Squibb

Eleanor the Great

Best Actor

George Clooney

Jay Kelly

Leonardo DiCaprio

One Battle After Another

Joel Edgerton

Train Dreams

Ethan Hawke

Blue Moon

Dwayne Johnson

The Smashing Machine

Best Supporting Actress

Regina Hall

One Battle After Another

Amy Madigan

Weapons

Helen Mirren

Goodbye June

Gwyneth Paltrow

Marty Supreme

Sigourney Weaver

Avatar: Fire and Ash

Best Supporting Actor

Benicio Del Toro

One Battle After Another

Delroy Lindo

Sinners

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Sean Penn

One Battle After Another

Michael Shannon

Nuremberg

Stellan Skarsgard

Sentimental Value

Best Director

Paul Thomas Anderson

One Battle After Another

Kathryn Bigelow

A House of Dynamite

Scott Cooper

Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere

Guillermo del Toro

Frankenstein

Spike Lee

Highest 2 Lowest

Best Screenwriter

Paul Thomas Anderson

One Battle After Another

Noah Baumbach and Emily Mortimer

Jay Kelly

Bradley Cooper, Will Arnett, and Mark Chappell

Is This Thing On?

Julian Fellowes

Downton Abbey: The Grand Finale

James Vanderbilt

Nuremberg

AARP Movies For Grownups Awards nominations list 2024

Best Ensemble

A House of Dynamite

Jay Kelly

Nuremberg

One Battle After Another

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Wake Up Dead Man: A Knives Out Mystery.

Best Intergenerational Film

Eleanor the Great

The Lost Bus

Rental Family

Rosemead

Sentimental Value

Best Period Film

Dead Mans Wire

Marty Supreme

Nuremberg

Sinners

Springsteen: Deliver Me from Nowhere.

Best Documentary

Becoming Led Zeppelin

Cover Up

My Mom Jayne

Riefenstahl

Stiller & Meara: Nothing Is Lost

Best Foreign-Language Film

It Was Just an Accident

No Other Choice

Nouvelle Vague

The Secret Agent

Sentimental Value

Best TV Series or Limited Series

Adolescence

Hacks

The Pitt

The Studio

The White Lotus

Best Actor (TV)

Walton Goggins

The White Lotus

Stephen Graham

Adolescence

Gary Oldman

Slow Horses

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Pedro Pascal

The Last of Us

Noah Wyle

The Pitt

Best Actress (TV)

Kathy Bates

Matlock

Kathryn Hahn

The Studio

Catherine OHara

The Studio

Parker Posey

The White Lotus

Jean Smart

Hacks

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EXCLUSIVE: Filmmaker Eugene Jarecki harbors no doubt about who came out the victor in the protracted legal battle between the U.S. government and Wikileaks founder Julian Assange. He says Assange prevailed over the most powerful country in the world.

In Jareckis Oscar-contending documentary The Six Billion Dollar Man, the director explores the stunning classified information Wikileaks exposed over the years, like the collateral murder video that showed U.S. military personnel in Apache helicopters firing on innocent people in Iraq in 2007, killing a dozen people including two Reuters journalists. And he documents the twists and turns in the American governments legal case against Assange that charged him with violations of the Espionage Act and conspiracy related to computer hacking.

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Earlier this month, Watermelon Pictures announced it acquired North American rights to the documentary. It plans an Oscar-qualifying run this year before a wider theatrical release in the new year. Watch an extended clip from the film above.

Director Eugene Jarecki and Julian Assange pose during the 'The Six Billion Dollar Man' photocall at the 78th annual Cannes Film Festival on May 20, 2025.

Assange has been free for a little over a year since he struck a plea bargain with the U.S. that saw him plead guilty to one count of violating the Espionage Act, though he publicly stipulated the espionage law runs counter to the First Amendment, bringing into question its legality. He attended the world premiere of The Six Billion Dollar Man at the Cannes Film Festival in May where it won the festivals 10th anniversary LOeil dor prize, along with the newly-created Golden Globe Award for documentary.

Assange attended the LOeil dor ceremony; Deadline attempted to speak with him there but he declined. We did talk with Jarecki after he accepted the LOeil dor prize.

Its exciting, its validation for Julian and for Wikileaks, Jarecki told us. I think Julian is getting validated all over the world. I think it started when the U.S. dropped 17 of their 18 counts against him and revealed that they had literally been in a campaign to destroy him all these years. Thats where he first got a boost. All thats happening now is he gets to take his victory lap. He gets to take his triumphant walk on the ashes of their phony case against him.

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In Cannes, we also spoke with the filmmaker in our Deadline Studio where he alluded to the meaning of his documentarys title.

What we witnessed is about 15 years of [the U.S.] going after Julian Assange to bury him and his team, Jarecki noted, and ultimately the U.S. government was willing to spend $6 billion to try to destroy him, which is what the film really reveals.

Wikileaks founder Julian Assange speaks from the balcony of the Ecuadorian embassy in London on February 5, 2016.

Much of that $6B figure took the form of an alleged financial inducement offered by the first Trump administration in 2019 that incentivized Ecuador to renege on a deal that had granted political asylum to Assange. After his asylum was revoked, Assange was booted from the Ecuadorian embassy in London where he had taken refuge; he was promptly arrested by U.K. authorities and spent five years in custody there before striking his plea deal with the U.S. under the Biden administration.

The Six Billion Dollar Man is produced by Jarecki and Kathleen Fournier for Charlotte Street Films, and co-produced by Andrew McLain, Molly Bareiss, Claudia Becker, Jose Passarelli, and Juan Passarelli; executive producers include Addison ODea, Mathilde Bonnefoy, Geralyn White Dreyfous, and James Packer.

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Jareckis credits include Why We Fight (Grand Jury Prize, Sundance 2005), The House I Live In (Grand Jury Prize, Sundance 2012), and The King (Cannes Official Selection, 2017).

Julian Assange

Regarding The Six Billion Dollar Man, he told us in our studio interview, The truth matters to us more than ever because were living in a world that really feels like its spinning out of control to most of us. So we want to know whats going on. And when you find out that the U.S. government was willing to spend $6 billion just to bury one truth seeker, it tells you what they think about the truth, the very truth we want to know. So, theres more reason than ever to understand the Assange and Wikileaks story because it relates to everything we are all about to face in our own world.

Watch the extended clip from The Six Billion Dollar Man above.

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Ashley Iaconetti is ready to take on her new role as a Bravolebrity after joining The Real Housewives of Rhode Island.

During the Tuesday, November 18, episode of their "Almost Famous" podcast, Ashley, 37, and cohost Ben Higgins addressed her presence on the upcoming series, which was officially confirmed at BravoCon 2025.

"The reason I was gone a lot over the summer was because I was filming The Real Housewives of Rhode Island," she told podcast listeners, who previously speculated over Ashley's involvement in the show. "I truly can't say much more than you can check out the trailer, which dropped at BravoCon [this weekend]."

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Ashley said it's been "very fun" to see how fans are reacting to the cast announcement and first look. "Thank you all for being so supportive and saying the sweetest things about me being on there, I appreciate that so much," she added.

The Real Housewives of Rhode Island Season 1 Trailer Premieres at BravoCon 2025

Even Ben, 36, couldn't contain his excitement, teasing that the Real Housewives franchise "just picked up one new viewer."

Fans initially got to know Ashley on season 19 of The Bachelor, which aired in 2015 with lead Chris Soules. She later appeared on seasons 2 and 3 of Bachelor in Paradise in 2015 and 2016, returning to reality TV in 2018 on Bachelor Winter Games.

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Comparing her time on the two hit franchises, Ashley said filming RHORI this summer "was an experience for sure," without getting into too many details.

"I don't know when it's gonna air, I don't even know if I can give a timeline as to what the estimated airtime is," she explained on the podcast. "It was a lot different than The Bachelor, I will say that. ... It is a very fun, exciting time to kind of go through the cycle again, especially with so many nice people out there rooting for me."

Having been in the spotlight before, Ashley said it's "a little less scary" this time around. "At least, like, you guys kind of understand who I am and hopefully that still stays reflected throughout the show," she noted.

Bravo revealed Rhode Island as the latest Housewives franchise in May. "Set against the shores of the Ocean State, the Real Housewives franchise expands into the world of a tight-knit circle of Rhode Islanders who have deep community roots and families that go back generations," the official synopsis read. "With aspirational lives, thriving businesses and tangled family dynamics, these decade-long friendships prove that in a state this small, there's no escaping your past ... or each other."

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Meet the Cast of Bravos The Real Housewives of Rhode Island: From Ashley Iaconetti to Dolores Catania

Details about the cast were initially kept under wraps, but Real Housewives of New Jersey star Dolores Catania was rumored to be involved. At the time, a source exclusively told Us Weekly, "She has authentic roots there, and the idea is she would set a tone but not as an official cast member."

During day 3 of BravoCon, fans got their first glimpse of the cast including Ashley, Alicia Carmody, Rosie DiMarie, Liz McGraw, Rulla Nehme Pontarelli, Kelsey Swanson and Jo-Ellen Tiberi. Dolores, 54, will appear as a friend of the Housewives.

"In Rhode Island, everyone knows everyone," the women said in a voiceover during the trailer. "People here, they don't look down on other states, but they are weirded out that other states exist."

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Ashley's official bio mentions her husband, fellow Bachelor Nation alum Jared Haibon, and their two sons, Dawson, 3, and Hayden, 16 months.

"While Jared manages their beloved coffee shop, Ashley has built a thriving career as a social media powerhouse, all while acclimating her new life in her husband's home state," read the Bravo press release.
Netflix is getting into the Nazi hunting business and, cousin, business is booming.

The streamer announced Tuesday, Nov. 18 that it has officially picked up five one-hour episodes based on The Boys from Brazil written and executive-produced by Peter Morgan (Emmy Award winning creator of The Crown). Production on the limited series, which kicks off next month, is set to take place across the United Kingdom, Germany, Bulgaria, and Spain.

Adapted from Ira Levin's best-selling thriller novel of the same name, the show will feature Succession star Jeremy Strong as Yakov Liebermann, a Jewish Holocaust survivor turned Nazi huntera la Simon Wiesenthalwho stumbles upon a dangerous conspiracy to resurrect the Third Reich through twisted genetic science.

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Leading this charge to revive Hitler's fascist nightmare is Doctor Johann-Friedrich Meinhardt (Josef Mengele in the book), a sadistic concentration camp doctor who escaped justice at the end of World War II by fleeing to the remote jungles of South America.

For More on Nazis in pop culture:

What If Operation Valkyrie Had Succeeded in Killing Hitler?

How The Twilight Zone Recreated the Infamous Dachau Concentration Camp for a Chilling Episode

The Man in the High Castle's Nazi World was Created by a Chilling Mix of Fiction and Reality

Jeremy Strong leads Netflix limited series based on Ira Levin's The Boys from Brazil

The Boys from Brazil Blackstone cover art

Strong, who was previously confirmed in February 2025, will be joined by August Diehl (Inglorious Basterds) as Doctor Meinhardt, Gillian Anderson (The X-Files) as Frieda Steiner, Daniel Bruhl (Inglorious Basterds) as Von Harteneck, Shira Haas (Captain America: New World Order) as Anna Koehler, and Lizzy Caplan (Now You See Me: Now You Don't) as Hannah Liebermann.

Building on his extraordinary work with The Crown, Peter continues to examine the political and emotional forces which, through the 20th century, have moulded the world we live in today, executive producer Suzanne Mackie said in a statement. "That he does so via the intimate human stories within the sweep of history makes his storytelling powerfully relatable."

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Simon Heath and Alex Gabassi are also executive producers, with the latter also directing. Oona OBeirn and Andy Stebbing are producers.

"Were thrilled to have assembled such an exceptional team, both in front of and behind the camera and to be working with the super-talented director, Alex Gabassi again for this new limited series for Netflix," Mackie continued. "We cant wait to bring Peter Morgans bold reimagining of Ira Levins The Boys from Brazil to the screen.

The project marks the second onscreen translation of the novel after the 1978 film directed by Franklin J. Schaffner and starring Sir Laurence Olivier as Liebermann and Gregory Peck as Mengele. Attempts to re-adapt the book go back to 2006 when now-disgraced filmmaker Brett Ratner announced his intentions to direct a new movie based on the material.

Here is the official synopsis for the limited series:

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Part historical thriller, part moral reckoning, The Boys from Brazil is a limited series about obsession, vengeance, and the terrifying persistence of hatred. It asks: when the world chooses to forget its darkest history, who will fight to keep the memoryand the justicealive?

Set across three decades from the immediate aftermath of WW2 through the political turbulence of the 1970s, The Boys from Brazil follows Holocaust survivor and Nazi hunter Yakov Liebermann, in his lifelong crusade to bring Nazi fugitives to justice, a crusade that has cost him nearly everything.

When one of his young protegees undercover in Brazil learns of a shocking Nazi plan, Liebermann is in a race against time to expose an unimaginable truth: Doctor Johann-Friedrich Meinhardt, a sadistic Nazi scientist he believed long dead, is alive and orchestrating a diabolical project to spark the rise of a Fourth Reich.
Valued at a market cap of $196 billion, Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG) is a global leader in robotic-assisted surgery and the maker of the da Vinci Surgical System, one of the most widely used robotic platforms in minimally invasive procedures. The California-based company provides surgical robots, instruments, accessories, and training to hospitals and surgeons worldwide.

This health tech titan has struggled to keep up with the broader market over the past 52 weeks. Shares of Intuitive Surgical have rallied 3.6% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 13.7%. Moreover, on a YTD basis, the stock is up 4.7%, compared to SPXs 13.4% return.

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Zooming in further, ISRG has outpaced the SPDR S&P Health Care Equipment ETFs (XHE) 8.5% decline over the past 52 weeks and 8.1% downtick on a YTD basis.

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On Oct. 21, Intuitive Surgical reported its fiscal Q3 2025 results, and the stock surged 13.9% in the following trading session as the company delivered a standout quarter. Revenue climbed to $2.51 billion, up 23% year over year, supported by strong growth in global procedure volumes and continued adoption of the da Vinci and Ion robotic platforms. Its instruments and accessories revenue increased by 20% annually to $1.52 billion. Adjusted operating income rose sharply to $976 million, compared with $755 million a year earlier, while adjusted EPS came in at $2.40, handily beating analyst expectations of around $1.99. Encouraged by this strength, management raised full-year procedure growth guidance to 17%17.5%.

For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect ISRGs EPS to rise 6.9% year over year to $6.93. The companys earnings surprise history is promising. It exceeded the consensus estimates in each of the last four quarters.

Among the 29 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a Moderate Buy, which is based on 19 Strong Buy, two Moderate Buy, seven Hold, and one Strong Sell rating.

www.barchart.com

This configuration is bullish than a month ago, with 18 analysts suggesting a Strong Buy rating.


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A decade after season 1 of The Night Manager premiered on AMC and BBC, the Emmy-winning series will finally return for a second season. Based on the 1993 novel by John le Carre, the British crime drama follows a hotel night manager Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston), whos recruited by intelligence officer Angela Burr (Olivia Colman) to investigate the inner workings of a powerful arms operation.

Its unlike any character Ive ever played, Hiddleston told British Vogue. If somebody stops me in the street or I find myself at a social gathering, people will bring up The Night Manager. The association is really strong.

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Heres everything we know so far about season 2.





The Night Manager by John le Carre

$21.49 at amazon.com





Who is in the cast?

Tom Hiddleston (Loki) and Olivia Colman (The Favourite) will reprise their roles in season 2 as Jonathan Pine and Angela Burr.

Im honestly excited that its taken 10 years, Hiddleston told Vanity Fair about returning to The Night Manager. The last 10 years in the world have been interesting. Jonathan Pine is 10 years older, a few more scars on the outside, a few more on the inside.

Barry King - Getty Images

In addition to Hiddleston and Colman, returning cast members include Alistair Petrie (Sex Education), Douglas Hodge (Black Mirror), Michael Nardone (Traces), and Noah Jupe (Honey Boy).



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Season 2 will also have some new additions: Diego Calva (Babylon), Camila Morrone (Daisy Jones & The Six), Indira Varma (Obsession), Paul Chahidi (The Serpent Queen), and Hayley Squires (Beau Is Afraid).

What is season 2 of The Night Manager about?

Heres the official synopsis, per Prime Video:

Jonathan Pine thought hed buried his past. Now living as Alex Goodwina low-level MI6 officer running a quiet surveillance unit in Londonhis life is comfortingly uneventful. Then one night a chance sighting of an old Roper mercenary prompts a call to action and leads Pine to a violent encounter with a new player: Colombian businessman Teddy Dos Santos (Diego Calva).

On this perilous new journey, Pine meets Roxana Bolanos (Camila Morrone), a businesswoman who reluctantly helps him infiltrate Teddys Colombian arms operation. Once in Colombia, Pine is plunged deep into a deadly plot involving arms and training of a guerrilla army. As allegiances splinter, Pine races to expose a conspiracy designed to destabilize a nation. And with betrayal at every turn, he must decide whose trust he needs to earn and how far hes willing to go before its too late.

When does season 2 of The Night Manager premiere?

Season 2 of The Night Manager will premiere on Jan. 11, 2026. on Prime Video and on January 1 on BBC in the U.K. It will have six episodes.

Can I watch a trailer?

Yes, the official trailer was released in November 2025. The footage offers a first look at Morrone and Calvas new characters, as well as a deeper glimpse into Pines latest operation, which hes infiltrating in Colombia.

Vanity Fair also unveiled first look images from season 2:

This story will be updated.





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Nov. 18 (UPI) -- K-Everything, a new travel series hosted and produced by actor-filmmaker Daniel Dae Kim, is set to premiere on CNN in 2026.

The four episodes will explore how South Korea has sparked a global pop culture movement.

"I've been lucky enough to watch Korea over the years take center stage as a cultural and economic powerhouse," Kim said in a press release Tuesday.

"It's a genuine joy teaming up with CNN to explore the many qualities that make the country and its culture so special."

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Kim is known for playing Jin-soo Kwon on Lost and Chin Ho Kelly on Hawaii Five-0. He more recently starred on the series Butterfly and had voice roles in Avatar: The Last Airbender and KPop Demon Hunters.
Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles is calling on her fans to rally behind her as she and professional dance partner Ezra Sosa prepare for the semifinals of Dancing With the Stars Season 34 tonight.

In a recent Instagram Story, Chiles shared a photo with Sosa and wrote:

"It's Semi-finals y'all. So excited. PLEASE - Tonight Text JORDAN to 21523 1ten times and then again online!"

The gymnasts plea comes as the competition heats up on Prince Night, when the six remaining couples perform two routines each, paying tribute to the legendary musician.

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For their first dance, Chiles and Sosa performed a lively jive to Raspberry Beret, followed by an intense Argentine tango to U Got the Look.

Jordan Chiles shares her excitement and voting plea. pic.twitter.com/If4cS98L2M  mydzn (@MadelaineDizon) November 19, 2025

For Chiles, the semifinals feel like familiar territory.

Making the semifinals is like making the Olympic trials, she said, reflecting on the competitive mindset she brings from gymnastics.

During her junior year at UCLA, Chiles performed to a Prince song and received perfect 10s, setting high expectations for tonights performance.

In their earlier semifinal performance, Chiles and Sosa displayed contrasting energies. While Sosa bounced energetically around the ballroom, Chiles started off more reserved but gradually amped up, demonstrating her adaptability and focus.

Dare I say this should've been Jordan Chiles' 3rd perfect score in a row??? SHE DESERVES TO BE IN THE FINALE SO PLEASE VOTE FOR HERRRRRRRRR #DWTS #DWTS34 pic.twitter.com/6pppPxJSTi  Johann (@johanntimkang) November 19, 2025

The judges noticed: Derek Hough called the routine fresh and fantastic, while Bruno Tonioli noted she slightly lost the rhythm in spots. Carrie Ann Inaba hailed the performance as the best of the night so far, culminating in a strong 27 out of 30 score.

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Chiles and Sosa have been hovering near the bottom of the leaderboard in recent weeks despite strong performances, making fan support more crucial than ever. Dancing With the Stars employs a 50/50 scoring system, where judges points and audience votes are equally weighted. Fans can vote online or via text during the live broadcast, with each viewer allowed up to 10 votes per method per couple.

Chiles performances have already earned celebrity attention. Pop star Ciara praised her Cha Cha routine to Get Up, sharing it on her Instagram Story and writing, You did that girl!

Olympic gymnast Jordan Chiles poses for a photo during the game between the Dallas Wings and the Indiana Fever at the American Airlines Center.Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

Tonight, she faces her biggest challenge yet: delivering flawless performances in both the Jive and Argentine Tango. With eliminations looming and the finale just a week away, every point and every vote counts.

As Jordan Chiles gears up to hit the dance floor once again, she reminds fans that their support is essential. The Olympic gymnast is not just competing for a trophy, shes showing the same perseverance and passion that helped her achieve gold on the world stage.

Related: Russell Wilsons Wife Ciara Reacts to Jordan Chiles 'DWTS' Performance

This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Nov 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the Entertainment section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Netflixs Stranger Things may be coming to an end, but the Wheeler familys fictional home is beginning a new season.

This two-story home in Atlantas East Point suburb served as the home of the series central family for five legendary seasons. As luck would have it, Netflix actually owned it, listed it for $350,000  and just sold it to two Stranger Things fans for $365,000, according to Zillow.

The new owners, an unnamed local couple, told Homes.com that they are avid fans of the show, and drove by the Wheeler House often. Their heartfelt letter to Netflix  and offering $15,000 over the asking price  seems to have sealed the deal.

The facade of the suburban home heavily starred in the five-season series. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty

The Stranger Things crew seen outside the Wheelers home in Season 1. Netflix/Courtesy Everett Collection / Everett Collection

The Wheelers basement was a frequent home base for the series central characters. Netflix/Courtesy Everett Collection / Everett Collection

The ink dried in late October, roughly a month before the buzzy series will premiere its final season on Netflix.

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The series was a runaway hit when it launched in 2016. The sci-fi horror series, set against a nostalgic backdrop of 1980s suburbia, told the story of young group of friends who face off with terrifying parallel dimensions and secret government experiments.

The two-story home of Mike Wheeler, played by Finn Wolfhard, was a go-to spot for the series young leads  its basement hosted Dungeons & Dragons campaigns and served as a hideout for Eleven, a girl with telekinetic abilities, portrayed by new mom Millie Bobby Brown.

Property records indicate that Netflix Studios LLC shelled out $425,000 to purchase the property, located in East Points Cheviot Hills neighborhood, in 2021.

While the real-life home does offer a basement, according to the listing, only the facade was featured in the series  as is typical in film and television production. Interior scenes at the Wheeler home were shot on a set in Atlanta.

The home includes four bedrooms across nearly 2,500 square feet. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty

The retro kitchen. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty

Mustard yellow paint and floral wallpaper complement the homes vintage style. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty

A front room connects to a dining area. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sotheby's International Realty

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A wood-paneled family room. Jordan Nelson for Atlanta Fine Homes Sothebys International Realty

But the circa-1963 home still possesses the 1980s charm synonymous Stranger Things, featuring wood-paneled walls and brick fireplaces. It includes four bedrooms and three bathrooms across roughly 2,500 square feet, according to the listing.

The home hit the market in late August for $350,000, with Hall Carey, an agent at Atlanta Fine Homes Sothebys International Realty, representing the sellers.

It entered into contract in less than a month.

One of the new owners told Homes.com she previously starred as an extra on the series, which largely filmed in the Atlanta area. She came across the property listing on social media.

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We didnt think it would ever be possible, she told the outlet.

We are growing our family through adoption and hope that our children will enjoy their childhood just as much as the Wheeler kids did, the letter said. We will honor the neighborhood and the legacy of this house and will be available for any future projects and/or reunions.

The couples agent, Giovany Gonzalez-Rios of BHHS Georgia Properties, told the outlet that the couple was ecstatic, when they got the confirmation.

Winona Ryder as Joyce Byers in Stranger Things. Netflix

Its now an Airbnb. Courtesy of AirBnb Community

The Wheeler house isnt the only Atlanta home with ties to the series Upside Down. The Fayetteville, Georgia property that serves as the fictional Byers home  one of the series most iconic filming locations  hit the market for $300,000 in 2022.

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The modest three-bedroom spent just a week on the market before it found its own fan-turned-owner with a premium offer.

The entrepreneurial buyer flipped the fixer-upper into a themed Airbnb, decked out with colorful lights and cryptic wall messages synonymous with the beloved series.
Every day, the Transportation Security Administration screens around 3.3 million carry-on bags to ensure no dangerous items could impact air passengers' safety.

For travelers, this means following the rules put in place to keep security checkpoint lines moving along. By now, most travelers are aware of the longstanding TSA rules prohibiting liquids over 3.4-ounces and any weapon-like items into their carry-on baggage. (The agency banned three items, including cordless hair tools, in checked luggage, in Aug. 2025 but also recently scrapped the shoes-off policy.)

Still, getting flagged at security can make even the most seasoned traveler break a sweat, especially given that the list of items not allowed on planes is extensive.

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"Airport security can be stressful, especially when youre carrying items you didnt realize were restricted," Paul Stewart, travel expert and founder of My Baggage, told USA TODAY.

Here are some surprising items that are banned by TSA.

A TSA agent stands outside a security checkpoint at Denver International Airport on Nov. 8, 2025 in Denver, Colorado.

What items are banned by TSA?

For the most part, items that are seen as hazardous are not permitted on planes. This includes those that could be used as weapons  even if that's not their intended purpose  like lacrosse sticks or bowling balls.

Another common item that poses a risk is lithium batteries, which can overheat and catch on fire. They're not allowed in checked baggage and must be in your carry-on, although certain restrictions still apply. In 2016, the Samsung Galaxy Note 7 was banned in 2016 due to its battery being prone to overheating and exploding, causing a cease on its production and a recall. Passengers who tried to bring one onboard were denied boarding.

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"To avoid delays, always check TSA and airline rules before packing, keep your luggage organized, pack liquids and electronics separately for easy access, and make sure any items that could need extra screening are on top or in an easily accessible pocket," said Stewart.

10 surprising items banned by TSA

Below are 10 items that aren't allowed in your carry-on luggage:

Bowling balls Cast iron cookware Drills and drill bits Foam toy swords Snow globes Screwdrivers longer than seven inches Gel-type candles Pepper spray Magic 8 ball Gel heating pads

Not sure what's allowed or prohibited to bring on board? See the complete list on TSA's website.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: 10 surprising items banned by TSA
For many Americans the political climate, increasing division and allure of a better more affordable lifestyle has them dreaming of packing their bags and starting over somewhere else. Whether it's the allure of a slower pace of life, the chance to dive into a vibrant new culture, or just the opportunity to hit reset, relocating can be a transformative experience.

1. Portugal: Gateway to Europe

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Portugal, with its sun-drenched coastlines and charming cobblestone streets, is rolling out a visa specifically for digital nomads. If you're a remote worker, this could be your golden ticket to experiencing the best of European living while keeping your job. A report by The Washington Post highlights Portugal's ever-growing community of expats who have been drawn by the countrys affordable living and welcoming atmosphere. This visa not only grants you the ability to stay for up to a year but can also be renewed if you fall in love with the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes. Imagine ending your workdays with a sunset walk along Lisbons picturesque waterfrontit's a lifestyle change that feels like a dream come true.

Portugals culinary scene is another irresistible draw. From fresh seafood to delectable pastries, there's something to tantalize every palate. The local cuisine combines Mediterranean flavors with unique regional twists, offering endless opportunities to indulge. Beyond the food, Portugal is rich in history and tradition, from Fado music to ancient castles, ensuring you'll never run out of things to explore. Whether youre surfing the waves in Nazare or exploring the Douro Valleys wine regions, Portugal offers a dynamic backdrop to your new life abroad.

2. Costa Rica: Pura Vida Paradise

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Costa Rica is famed for its "pura vida" lifestyle, which translates to "pure life," and its not just a sayingit's a way of living. This Central American gem is perfect for those who crave adventure and relaxation in equal measure. With its lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and warm-hearted people, Costa Rica offers an escape into nature that feels both thrilling and tranquil. The countrys new visa option is aimed at attracting digital nomads, allowing you to work remotely while immersing yourself in a vibrant community and diverse ecosystems. Whether youre hiking through the Monteverde Cloud Forest or surfing the waves in Tamarindo, Costa Rica promises a daily dose of natural beauty and serenity.

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But it's not just about the landscapesCosta Rica is also a wellness haven. The country is renowned for its yoga retreats, eco-lodges, and holistic health offerings, making it an ideal spot for a lifestyle reboot. Imagine starting your mornings with meditation by the ocean or ending your days in a natural hot spring. The emphasis on sustainable living and self-care can help you cultivate a balanced, fulfilling life. In Costa Rica, youll find both inner and outer peacea perfect blend for those seeking more than just a change of scenery.

3. Mexico: Cultural Richness Close to Home

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Mexico is a vibrant tapestry of culture, cuisine, and color, offering a rich palette for those ready to start anew. With its proximity to the U.S., moving to Mexico means youre never too far from home while enjoying a life enriched by its distinct traditions. According to Travel + Leisure, Mexico's new "Temporary Resident Visa" is designed for those who wish to stay beyond the typical tourist timeframe, providing a more extended glimpse into life south of the border. From the bustling markets of Oaxaca to the serene beaches of the Yucatan Peninsula, Mexico offers a lifestyle that's as diverse as its landscapes. Whether youre indulging in street tacos or exploring ancient ruins, Mexico invites you to be part of its dynamic narrative.

Living in Mexico means immersing yourself in a country where every day is a celebration. Its a place where music fills the streets and festivals bring communities together in joy and solidarity. Youll find a rhythm here that is both intoxicating and grounding. The welcoming nature of the people makes it easy to form connections and feel at home. As you navigate this colorful country, you'll discover that Mexicos warmth extends not just from its climate but from its heart, making it an enchanting destination for a new beginning.

4. New Zealand: Nature Lovers Utopia

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If youve ever dreamed of living in Middle-earth, New Zealand might just be the closest thing youll find. Known for its otherworldly landscapes and outdoor adventures, this island nation is a paradise for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. With a new visa aimed at attracting skilled workers, New Zealand is opening its doors to those who want to contribute to its innovative and sustainable future. Imagine waking up to rolling hills, majestic mountains, and crystalline lakesthis could be your everyday reality. Whether youre bungee jumping in Queenstown or exploring the geothermal wonders of Rotorua, New Zealand offers an unparalleled backdrop for an adventurous life.

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But it's not all about adrenaline; New Zealand is also a haven for those seeking peace and solitude. The country offers a slower pace of life, where mindfulness and connection to the earth are valued. With communities that prioritize sustainability, youll find opportunities to engage in eco-friendly living and conservation efforts. The warm Kiwi hospitality ensures youll be welcomed with open arms, making it easy to find your niche. In New Zealand, every horizon is an invitation to explore, offering endless possibilities for a fulfilling life.

5. Thailand: Southeast Asias Gem

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Thailand, known for its rich culture and stunning landscapes, is making waves with a new visa designed for long stays. This Southeast Asian gem offers everything from bustling city life in Bangkok to serene island escapes in places like Koh Samui. According to Forbes, Thailand's "Smart Visa" aims to attract professionals and entrepreneurs, providing opportunities to live and work in this dynamic country. The food alonethink spicy curries and savory street snacksis enough to fall in love with, but theres so much more to explore. Imagine immersing yourself in the vibrant street markets, ancient temples, and lush jungles that make Thailand a captivating place to call home.

The Thai lifestyle is a unique blend of tradition and modernity, offering a tapestry of experiences that enrich daily life. The country is renowned for its hospitality, ensuring youll feel welcomed no matter where you go. Thailand also offers an affordable cost of living, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. Whether youre taking part in a traditional festival or relaxing on a tropical beach, Thailand invites you to embrace its philosophy of sanuk, or finding joy in everyday life. Here, every day is an opportunity to discover something new, making it an ideal destination for those ready to start fresh.

6. Italy: La Dolce Vita Awaits

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Italy is a country that needs no introduction, with its world-renowned art, history, and cuisine. The allure of "la dolce vita" is irresistible, and now with new visa options, its more accessible than ever to make Italy your home. Whether its the romantic canals of Venice, the rolling hills of Tuscany, or the vibrant streets of Naples, Italy offers a landscape as diverse as its culinary offerings. Imagine spending your weekends exploring ancient ruins or indulging in a leisurely aperitivo with new friends. Italy invites you to slow down and savor life, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of culture and comfort.

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Living in Italy means being part of a country steeped in tradition and charm, where each region offers its own unique identity. From the fashion-forward streets of Milan to the historical landmarks of Rome, there's always something to discover. Italy's emphasis on family and community ensures a warm welcome, making it easy to integrate into local life. The Italian way of living emphasizes quality over quantity, from the clothes you wear to the meals you share. In Italy, life itself is an art form, inviting you to immerse yourself in its beauty and passion.

7. Spain: Vibrant Life and Endless Sunshine

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Spains sunny climate and lively culture make it an attractive option for those looking to relocate. With its new visa options, Spain is opening its doors to those who want to experience the Mediterranean lifestyle firsthand. A recent article in The Guardian highlights Spains commitment to attracting international talent through these programs, providing a gateway to life in cities like Barcelona and Madrid. Whether you're drawn to the bustling tapas bars or the serene countryside of Andalusia, Spain offers a lifestyle as vibrant as its flamenco dancing. Imagine strolling through colorful markets, attending lively festivals, and soaking up the endless sunshineSpain promises a life filled with warmth and joy.

Spanish culture is a celebration of life, where socializing and enjoying the moment are central to daily living. The country takes pride in its rich history and diverse traditions, offering a tapestry of experiences that are both educational and entertaining. With a lower cost of living compared to other European countries, Spain allows for a comfortable lifestyle without sacrificing quality. The welcoming nature of the Spanish people makes it easy to forge connections and feel at home. Here, every day is an opportunity to embrace the joys of life, making Spain an ideal destination for a vibrant and fulfilling new chapter.

8. Greece: A Mythical Mediterranean Escape

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Greece, with its ancient ruins and idyllic islands, offers a mystical escape steeped in history and beauty. The new visa options available make it easier than ever to embrace the slow-paced, sun-soaked lifestyle of this Mediterranean paradise. Imagine wandering through the ancient streets of Athens or lounging on the beaches of Santoriniits a life that feels almost mythical. Greece is not just a destination; it's a way of living, where time seems to stand still and every moment is savored. This is the perfect place to rediscover yourself, surrounded by the echoes of history and the warmth of the Aegean sun.

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The Greek way of life emphasizes community and connection, where gatherings over food and drink are a cherished tradition. From the local tavernas serving fresh seafood to the bustling markets filled with vibrant produce, Greece offers a culinary journey that reflects its rich heritage. The cost of living is affordable, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life amidst stunning natural beauty. The welcoming spirit of the Greek people ensures that youll feel like part of the community in no time. In Greece, every moment is an opportunity to celebrate life and create lasting memories.

9. Belize: Caribbean Calm and Adventures

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Belize is a Caribbean haven that combines natural beauty with a laid-back lifestyle, perfect for those seeking both tranquility and adventure. With its new visa options, Belize offers the chance to live surrounded by stunning reefs, lush jungles, and welcoming communities. Imagine starting your day with a dive in the world-famous Blue Hole or exploring the ancient Mayan ruins that dot the landscape. Belizes vibrant culture and English-speaking population make the transition smooth, allowing you to dive into a lifestyle that feels both exotic and familiar. Whether you're relaxing on a beach or embarking on an eco-adventure, Belize invites you to discover a life of balance and beauty.

The countrys emphasis on sustainable living and conservation efforts means you can enjoy nature while contributing to its preservation. Belize is home to some of the world's most diverse ecosystems, offering endless opportunities for exploration and discovery. The slow pace of life encourages mindfulness and relaxation, where the simple joys of island living take center stage. The sense of community and friendliness of the locals ensure youll feel at home in this tropical paradise. In Belize, every day is a new adventure, inviting you to embrace a lifestyle of exploration and serenity.

10. Panama: Gateway to Latin America

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Panama is more than just a canal; it's a vibrant country that serves as a gateway to Latin America. With its new visa options, Panama offers an enticing opportunity for those looking to relocate to a place that blends modern amenities with rich cultural experiences. The cosmopolitan city of Panama City offers a thriving arts scene, diverse dining options, and a skyline that rivals those of major metropolitan areas. Yet, just a short drive away, you can find yourself in lush rainforests and pristine beaches. Panama invites you to experience the best of both worlds, where urban sophistication meets natural beauty.

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Living in Panama means embracing a culture rich in history and diversity. The countrys strategic location has made it a melting pot of influences, creating a tapestry of traditions and flavors. Panamas commitment to economic growth and development means there are plenty of opportunities for both work and play. The friendly and diverse population makes it easy to integrate and find your place in this dynamic country. In Panama, every day is an opportunity to explore, connect, and thrive, making it an ideal destination for a new beginning.

11. Barbados: Island Bliss and Culture

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Barbados is an island that promises a lifestyle filled with sun, sea, and vibrant culture. With its new visa options, this Caribbean gem is opening its shores to those ready to escape to a life of island bliss. Imagine spending your days lounging on pristine beaches, sipping rum punch, and immersing yourself in the lively local music scene. Barbados offers a unique blend of British heritage and Caribbean flair, creating a rich cultural tapestry thats as welcoming as it is diverse. Whether youre exploring the islands natural wonders or enjoying the warmth of its people, Barbados invites you to discover the joys of island life.

The islands commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly living means you can enjoy its natural beauty while contributing to its preservation. Barbados is home to some of the worlds most stunning coral reefs and marine life, making it a paradise for snorkeling and diving. The slower pace of life encourages relaxation and mindfulness, allowing you to fully embrace the islands laid-back vibe. The friendly and welcoming nature of the Barbadian people ensures youll feel at home in no time. In Barbados, every day is an opportunity to soak in the sun, sea, and culture, making it an ideal destination for a fresh start.

12. Vietnam: A Tapestry of Tradition and Innovation

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Vietnam is a country that captivates with its stunning landscapes, rich history, and dynamic cities. The new visa options available make it easier than ever to explore the bustling streets of Ho Chi Minh City or the serene beauty of Halong Bay. Vietnam offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, where ancient temples stand alongside modern skyscrapers. Imagine savoring the flavors of Vietnamese cuisine, from street food to gourmet dining, as you immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture. Whether youre exploring the bustling markets or the tranquil countryside, Vietnam offers a lifestyle filled with discovery and delight.

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The countrys commitment to economic growth and development means there are plenty of opportunities for both work and leisure. Vietnams diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for exploration, from the lush Mekong Delta to the breathtaking mountains of Sapa. The affordable cost of living allows you to enjoy a high quality of life, experiencing the best of what the country has to offer. The warmth and hospitality of the Vietnamese people make it easy to connect and find your place in this enchanting country. In Vietnam, every day is an invitation to explore and experience the beauty and complexity of a country on the rise.

13. Colombia: A Revival of Culture and Nature

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Colombia is a country that has undergone a remarkable transformation, emerging as a vibrant destination that celebrates both culture and nature. With its new visa options, Colombia invites you to explore its diverse landscapes, from the lively streets of Bogota to the lush coffee regions. Imagine immersing yourself in the countrys rich cultural heritage, from its vibrant music scene to its colorful festivals. Colombia offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern energy, making it an ideal place for those seeking adventure and connection. Whether youre exploring the Amazon rainforest or dancing the night away in Medellin, Colombia promises a life filled with excitement and discovery.

The countrys emphasis on sustainability and conservation means you can enjoy its natural beauty while contributing to its preservation. Colombias commitment to peace and development has created an environment where creativity and innovation thrive. The cost of living is affordable, allowing you to enjoy a high quality of life without breaking the bank. The warmth and friendliness of the Colombian people ensure youll feel welcomed and at home in no time. In Colombia, every day is an opportunity to embrace the passion and vibrancy of a country thats redefining itself for the future.

14. Croatia: Adriatic Beauty and Charm

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Croatia is a country that dazzles with its Adriatic coastline, historic cities, and natural wonders. With its new visa options, Croatia is opening its doors to those ready to explore its charming towns and stunning landscapes. Imagine wandering through the ancient streets of Dubrovnik or island-hopping along the Dalmatian coast. Croatia offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, making it an enticing destination for those seeking a new beginning. Whether youre exploring the countrys national parks or enjoying its vibrant culinary scene, Croatia invites you to discover the magic of the Adriatic.

The countrys commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and natural beauty means there are plenty of opportunities for exploration and discovery. Croatias rich history and diverse landscapes offer endless opportunities for adventure and relaxation. The affordable cost of living allows you to enjoy a high quality of life, experiencing the best of what the country has to offer. The warm and welcoming nature of the Croatian people ensures youll feel at home in no time. In Croatia, every day is a new adventure, offering a lifestyle filled with beauty, culture, and charm.
Train journeys are a great way to dip your toes into slow travel while also seeing landscapes you may never have laid eyes on. In a recent article, The Independent shared a surprising list of bucket-list-worthy trips that feature some of America's best scenery. At the top of the list was Amtrak's Empire Builder, a 46-hour route connecting Chicago and Seattle or Portland.

The Empire Builder stops at over 40 stations during its course. Travelers who want to be selective about where to get off, or want to do this trip in parts, should consider the following best stops, which are all situated near an airport, so you can fly in and out easily and get straight onto the train. The following list also covers a wide range of possible activities to suit any type of traveler.

A few notes to keep in mind when planning your journey: The Empire Builder has daily departures at each stop. This means that if you get off at 3 a.m. to explore Spokane and want to continue to Seattle, you'll need to be ready to board at around the same time the next day.

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Chicago, Illinois

Areal view of Chicago River and Outer Drive - Moses P/Shutterstock

Chicago is the easternmost stop along the Empire Builder route. The Windy City  not nicknamed because of its weather, interestingly, but because its politicians were described as being "full of hot air"  is a must-visit if you love architecture and culture.

Chicago is considered to be the birthplace of the skyscraper, with a history that goes as far back as the late 1800s. It's this historical connection that makes its skyline, which you can enjoy via several viewpoints throughout the city, so special. Back on ground level, live theater and fine arts are always trending, with tons of museums and events to keep you entertained.

What's more, Chicago is home to America's coolest neighborhood for 2025, Avondale, affectionately known as Bricktown. Avondale is located about 6 miles from Union Station, where the Empire Builder departs. Arrive in Chicago early to make the most of the city before the train journey.

St. Paul, Minnesota

Aerial cityscape image of downtown St. Paul, Minnesota - Rudy Balasko/Shutterstock

Long before (or after) reaching the mountains, the Empire Builder stops at St. Paul-Minneapolis Station in Minnesota. It's here that, in 1879, nine railway companies merged to create the Saint Paul Union Depot Company. The goal was, with their combined assets, machinery, and tracks, to provide the best possible rail services to Midwesterners. James J. Hill is to thank for conceptualizing and leading the construction of a single passenger terminal that would connect multiple train lines  a big transportation hub for the time. Hill's nickname was "the Empire Builder," and it's this local figure that the sightseeing train was named after.

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The Empire Builder stops at Union Depot, a historical landmark with its own fascinating history. Completed in the early 1900s, the structure immortalizes 20th-century architecture. The station underwent a massive restoration between 2010 and 2012. Stepping out for just 20 minutes for a peek at the station building is worth it.

If fascinating railway history wasn't enough, an overnight stop in St. Paul gives travelers plenty of time to explore Minneapolis's exciting food scene. The Twin Cities, as they are sometimes referred to, are home to a few noteworthy, award-winning restaurants.

Whitefish, Montana

Mainstreet in Whitefish, Montana - Beeldtype/Shutterstock

Some of the best views from aboard the Empire Builder are the ones you'll see as you ride through Glacier National Park. Pine trees, lakes, and mountain peaks are some of the features of these landscapes  even moose are known to make the occasional appearance.

If views aren't enough to satiate your yearning for the outdoors, then consider getting off at Whitefish, Montana. The resort town offers the perfect base for those who may want to spend more time inside the park. Online, travelers warn that Glacier National Park is really better suited for car travel, so consider renting a car here and going for a quick day-trip.

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Alternatively, you can simply enjoy Whitefish, considered Montana's most charming small town  and for a good reason! Artisanal shops, craft breweries, and small eateries line the downtown streets, and even without heading out to Glacier National Park, you'll spot some beautiful mountain views in the landscapes.

Spokane, Washington

Aerial view of downtown Spokane, Washington - Joseph Sohm/Shutterstock

The Empire Builder stops at Spokane, Washington, one of the most underrated cities across America for your next getaway. Spokane Falls and the Riverfront Park, where the falls are located, are two must-visit spots where you can experience a little bit of the Pacific Northwest nature while still staying well within city limits. Fun fact: The Spokane Falls are one of the largest urban waterfalls in the United States. The Washington city also boasts an exciting food scene with African, Italian, and Asian culinary highlights in addition to North American classics.

Travelers should note that the train arrives at Spokane in the early hours of the morning. If you want to spend a day here, you'll need to plan for transportation accordingly. Remember that the train departs at the same time the following day, so you'll also have to anticipate killing time at the station until you can get back on the Empire Builder. Spokane is also where the train splits into two sections, with one going to Seattle and another going to Portland. Getting off and exploring the city for a day is recommended, but double-check that you get on the right train the next morning!

Portland, Oregon

Aerial View of Portland Steel Bridge Over Calm River - Nicholas J Klein/Shutterstock

Out of the two possible West Coast termini on the Empire Builder route, Portland, Oregon, is the most recommended among those who have done the journey because of its vibrancy, multitude of things to do, and proximity to nature. Portland is famous for being a very bikeable city, so if the weather allows, consider riding your way to the best spots in town. Here is also where you'll find the largest independent bookstore in the world, Powell's Books, a must-visit if you need to pick up something to read on your train journey and happen to be departing from Portland.

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On its way to Portland, the sightseeing train spends a few hours along the stunning Columbia River Gorge. Westbound trains pass through the gorge in the morning hours, while eastbound trains travel through during the late evening. The views are best in summer, when there are more hours of daylight to see the sights. Noteably, travelers also recommend going eastbound to see the Rocky Mountains in daylight, and making Chicago the final stop of your journey.

Methodology

Empire Builder train riding through Skykomish, Washington - Ian Dewar Photography/Shutterstock

The Empire Builder covers a whole lot of miles. This list was compiled with travelers who love a good itinerary or those who lean towards spontaneity in mind, and who want to make the most of their time on the scenic route, even if they cannot commit to doing the full ChicagoPortland/Seattle trip. Chicago, St. Paul, Whitefish, Spokane, and Portland all have direct, comfortable access to major airports. Travelers can fly into any of these cities and start their Empire Builder journey heading East or West. It's just as easy to wrap it up anywhere along the way.

Using data points from personal accounts shared on Reddit and Tripadvisor, as well as the traveler-sourced U.S. Train Travel Guide, cities with a diverse range of activities were selected to suit the widest range of travelers, foodies, art lovers, and nature enthusiasts alike.

Finally, because of the Empire Builder's daily schedule, destinations where it's relatively easy to plan an overnight stay  in other words, those with plenty of accommodation options to choose from  were given priority.

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Read the original article on Islands.
Dive bars have been the setting for innumerable laughs, wild stories, and cheap drinks. They are often the heart of small communities and serve as literal watering holes and community spaces in towns across the country. There is one dive bar, though, that predates even the very state it lives in.

The Salty Dawg Saloon is a small but mighty dive bar in Homer, and it took top spot in Alaska when we named the best dive bar in every U.S. state. The bar's history is as rich as the miners who came to Alaska during the gold rush.

The Salty Dawg Saloon resides in a building that was originally built as a quaint wooden cabin in 1897, then later served as the town's first post office, a railway station, grocery store, and a coal mining office before meeting its dive bar destiny in 1957. It wouldn't be until two years later that Alaska became a state. The Salty Dawg Saloon continues to carry on this legacy with its quirky decor and cozy atmosphere. A quick Google search brings up images of walls coated in stickers and dollar bills alongside maritime accessories and twinkle lights. It encapsulates everything that is beautiful about a dive bar and is certainly worth a visit.

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Read more: The 30 Best Bourbon Brands, Ranked

Take a deeper dive into this bar

An indoor shot of behind the bar at the salty dawg saloon - The Salty Dawg Saloon/Instagram

If you find yourself looking for a cheap drink in Homer, Alaska, then The Salty Dawg Saloon is your destination. While the bar doesn't publish any kind of menu online, a Google review photo from a few years ago shares a range of beers that are no more than $7. Stick to the normal dive bar rules and don't expect to be served any elaborate mixed cocktails (no, not even the intriguing Alaska cocktail, though you can ask). There's also no food served at The Salty Dawg Saloon, though the Google listing does say outside food is allowed. And, if you're a whiskey drinker, expect to see a slightly higher price thanks to Alaska being the most expensive state to buy whiskey.

Open from just noon to 8 p.m., The Salty Dawg Saloon has earned more than just local celebrity status, but has grown to be a true tourist destination, too. So much so, that the dive bar makes and sells an entire range of branded merch ranging from the usual hoodies and shirts to shot and pint glasses to the more comical and risque Salty Dawg Saloon thong underwear (which, at the time of writing, was sold out). All in all, The Salty Dawg Saloon has really embodied what it means to be a dive bar and why these kinds of spaces are sacred to so many. So, the next time you find yourself in Alaska, you already know where to grab your welcome drink.

Want more food knowledge? Sign up to our free newsletter where we're helping thousands of foodies, like you, become culinary masters, one email at a time. You can also add us as a preferred search source on Google.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Greece is known around the world for its spectacularly beautiful islands, and best destinations to visit in Greece are islands in the Cyclades or the Dodecanese. Indeed, these are some of the best destinations to visit on the planet. In Greece, island beauty is everywhere. Not surprisingly, next to the breathtaking island of Sifnos is another stunning island full of pristine beaches: Serifos. While Serifos is located in the Cycladic islands, you won't find the crowds of Santorini or Mykonos here. This gem is one of the least-visited islands in Greece, and flies blissfully under the radar.

Serifos has two main towns: Livadi (the port town), and Hora. Most of the island's 1,300 permanent residents live in these two places. While there is plenty to see and do in the towns, the island's 72 gorgeous beaches are the true attraction here. After exploring sandy and pebbly bays, reward yourself with a delicious meal at a restaurant or taverna, which serve up tasty local dishes to suit every style, budget, and appetite.

Read more: 8 Caribbean Islands Safe From Hurricanes

Hit the beach and soak up the sun in Serifos

Turquoise water laps sandy isthmus with church at Agios Sostis beach on Serifos - Constantinos-iliopoulos/Getty Images

The best thing to do on Serifos is to explore the island's many beaches. Psili Ammos is an award-winning beach  It's one of the busiest, but with good reason. The water here is a bright turquoise, a pretty contrast with the golden sand, and it's great for swimming. Agios Sostis is another beautiful beach, formed of two crescent bays with super-clear water. It's best to walk here as the road is rough, and it's approximately a 40-minute walk from Livadi. The white church gives a picturesque view of the beach and surrounding scenery.

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Ganema, on the southern side of the island, is another beach you can't miss. One side has golden sand, the other is pebbles, and there are some tamarisk trees for shade. Vagia is a good option for snorkeling, with a few facilities like loungers and umbrellas. The beaches on the north side of the island aren't as popular because of high winds, but the trade-off is that there are even fewer people here. Visit Sikamia for a peaceful atmosphere and more beautifully clear water.

Sample tasty local eats around the island

Colorful tables and chairs with whitewashed buildings in Hora town square on Serifos, Greece - vivooo/Shutterstock

Serifos is full of restaurants, cafes, tavernas, and beach bars serving top-notch Greek delicacies. One local Serifos dish is revithada, a chickpea stew  the best place on the island to try this is Plakes, a restaurant that also offers Greek classics like moussaka. As an added bonus to the delicious food, Plakes boasts a superb view of Hora. In Livadi, dine at Thalami to sample fresh fish and the catch of the day, along with excellent fennel fritters. It's right on the marina, making it a perfect location to sample Greek cuisine. Get breakfast at Stou Stratou in Hora, located on the picturesque Pano Piazzo. They have sweet and savory treats available for breakfast, along with excellent coffee. It's also a good spot for cocktails and small plates in the evening.

To get between these towns and restaurants, you will need transportation. While there are buses on the island, it's best to rent a car  alternately, you can rent an ATV or scooter to explore. There are no airports on Serifos, but the island is easily connected by ferry. Ferries from Piraeus port in Athens take between two and four and a half hours, depending on whether you take a normal or high-speed boat. There are also regular services between other islands in the Western Cyclades in high season. If, after Serifos, you wish to continue your Cycladic island-hopping adventure, you'll want to check out Naxos, one of the prettiest islands, and then head on to the stunning island of Paros.

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Read the original article on Islands.
Energy bills are constantly rising, and one of the best ways to get around that is to go solar. Solar panels convert abundant sunlight into electricity efficiently, without creating planet-warming pollution. One company that has been doing a lot to make solar more affordable in the U.S. is TCD partner Palmetto.

What is Palmetto?

Palmetto is a solar installation company operating in 31 states across America, from California to New Jersey. It has served over 500,000 customers and maintained high customer satisfaction for 14 years.

Palmetto both sells and leases solar panels, giving customers the opportunity to tap into thousands of dollars in solar savings with no upfront investment, offering solutions for every situation.

Why is going solar with Palmetto important?

Solar panels save homeowners money. When buying, they pay for themselves well before the end of the panels' lifespan, so all of the energy they generate after that and the bills they help you avoid are pure profit.

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When leasing, you can lock in a set rate for your electricity. Plus, you won't be financially responsible for the panels' maintenance.

Meanwhile, you can feel good about doing your part for the planet by switching to clean energy that will help us reverse global warming.

How Palmetto helps save money on solar

If you're looking to get the most bang for your buck on solar panel installation, Palmetto can help you save up to $10,000. Its trusted network of installers offers prices that average $10,000 below the market rate.

If the upfront cost of solar panels is still too daunting, Palmetto also has subscription plans with $0 down, including its LightReach program, which can reduce your utility rates by up to 20% and lock in a reliable, cheaper rate. For help deciding between leasing and buying, check out this guide. Palmetto also offers advice specific to your area.

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If you're curious about all of your solar options, head to TCD's Solar Explorer. The hub will help you save money on going solar, connect with trusted partners, and understand all your options so that you can choose what's right for your situation.

If you don't have solar panels on your home, which of these factors is the biggest barrier to installing them? Upfront costs Trouble with my HOA Too much maintenance An incompatible roof Click your choice to see results and speak your mind.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
What are the early trends we should look for to identify a stock that could multiply in value over the long term? One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount of capital employed. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. So when we looked at Cranswick (LON:CWK) and its trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw.

We've found 21 US stocks that are forecast to pay a dividend yield of over 6% next year. See the full list for free.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. To calculate this metric for Cranswick, this is the formula:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.17 = UK204m  (UK1.5b - UK347m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2025).

Therefore, Cranswick has an ROCE of 17%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 12% generated by the Food industry.

View our latest analysis for Cranswick

LSE:CWK Return on Capital Employed November 19th 2025

In the above chart we have measured Cranswick's prior ROCE against its prior performance, but the future is arguably more important. If you'd like to see what analysts are forecasting going forward, you should check out our free analyst report for Cranswick .

What Can We Tell From Cranswick's ROCE Trend?

Investors would be pleased with what's happening at Cranswick. The data shows that returns on capital have increased substantially over the last five years to 17%. The company is effectively making more money per dollar of capital used, and it's worth noting that the amount of capital has increased too, by 51%. So we're very much inspired by what we're seeing at Cranswick thanks to its ability to profitably reinvest capital.

The Bottom Line

In summary, it's great to see that Cranswick can compound returns by consistently reinvesting capital at increasing rates of return, because these are some of the key ingredients of those highly sought after multi-baggers. Since the stock has returned a solid 49% to shareholders over the last five years, it's fair to say investors are beginning to recognize these changes. Therefore, we think it would be worth your time to check if these trends are going to continue.

Before jumping to any conclusions though, we need to know what value we're getting for the current share price. That's where you can check out our FREE intrinsic value estimation for CWK that compares the share price and estimated value.
This Thanksgiving, families are preparing to commit the ultimate holiday rebellion: replacing the traditional Thanksgiving turkey with a centerpiece that brings guaranteed glamour. Lobster, the prized seafood abundant along the New England coast, is making a major return to the Thanksgiving table, driven by consumers eager for a decadent, memorable meal that breaks the routine. This shift signals a move toward indulgence and experience, confirms Julian Klenda, CEO of Maine Lobster Now and a seafood expert.

The Unexpected History: A Return to the Traditional New England Feast

Klenda explains that while the trend feels entirely new, its actually a nod to the holidays earliest origins. "Lobster and Thanksgiving might seem like an unexpected pairing, but historically, seafood was actually part of the very first feast," Klenda said in a statement. He added that since "Lobster, clams, and fish were abundant along the New England coast, and early settlers likely enjoyed them alongside corn and seasonal vegetables," bringing lobster back to the table is, "in many ways, a return to tradition."

Today, that return is driven by a desire for excitement. "It is about creating a meal that feels special, memorable, and full of warmth," Klenda shared. "Lobster brings that wow factor while still feeling warm and familiar, especially when it is served with classic sides like mashed potatoes, stuffing, or buttery rolls.

Thanksgiving Menu Upgrade: Lobster Rolls to Mac & Cheese

Families are now treating the lobster as a customizable holiday centerpiece. The range of preparation options allows the seafood to enhance the holiday menu, rather than overwhelm it. The seafood is appearing as everything from a whole centerpiece to lobster mac & cheese, lobster salad, lobster bisque, lobster ravioli, and lobster rolls. Whether presented as a main dish or a complement, the goal is the same: to make the holiday feel special.

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Klenda concluded by noting the shift in priorities: "Thanksgiving will always be rooted in tradition, but there is room for new flavors and experiences. Whether it is a whole boiled lobster, a creamy lobster mac and cheese, or a light lobster salad, it is all about making the day feel a little more special."

Next: Fans Are Obsessed With Butterballs Ingenious Thanksgiving Product

This story was originally reported by Parade on Nov 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the News section. Add Parade as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
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Credit: @kristenmarienichols

I recently visited Morocco for the first time, heading to the Royal Mansour Hotels in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca. The destinations have significant ties to Morocco, as they are a passion project of King Mohammed VI, who founded the country's first hospitality brand in 2010 when it opened the debut property in Marrakech. With each hotel, the king aims to not only showcase the best of the kingdom but introduce leisure travelers to the lesser-known regions of Morocco.

The Royal Mansour Marrakech was recently named the number one hotel in Africa and #13 hotel in the world by The World's 50 Best, demonstrating the high standards and luxury experience of the expanding hotel group. The newer properties in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca just opened in 2024, and though they are less explored, they deserve equal attention. Ahead, an inside look at the Royal Mansour Hotels in Tamuda Bay and Casablanca and all of the details to know for an upcoming visit.

Hotel Overview: Royal Mansour Tamuda Bay

Opened in September 2024, the hotel in Tamuda Bay is the latest property in the Royal Mansour Collection. Set on the northern coast of Africa, Tamuda Bay isn't typically a starting point for people traveling to Morocco. Marrakech is often the first stop for those vacationing in the region, but while Tamuda Bay is lesser known, it's a hidden gem that still feels like an insider secret. Visiting the region and hotel felt like experiencing something new and undiscovered, which is becoming rarer in this age of travel. Soon, though, I expect it to be a buzzy destination among those who are well-traveled and in the know.

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Dubbed the Moroccan Riviera, the region is known for its beautiful sweeping views, crystal-clear water, and sunny climate. The luxury resort has a 3000-foot private beach, the country's first medical-aesthetic spa, and restaurants led by Michelin-star chefs from across the globe. Every inch of the propertyfrom the sprawling villas to the quiet spa pool designed with a mother of pearl chandelierfeels luxurious. As do the details and smaller touches, including the Land Rover Defender that picked us up at the train station and the local Medjool dates and regional desserts left with handwritten notes in the room each day.

Tamuda Bay is also an excellent base for day trips to delve deeper into Moroccos diversity. Many guests began their trip in Tangier to explore the growing community specializing in fashion, art, and home decor. Others took nearby excursions to Chefchaouen, known as The Blue City, or Tetouan, home to one of the best-preserved medinas in the region.

The Finer Details

One of the highlights of the visit was the newly opened spathe countrys first medical-aesthetic spawhich opened its doors in 2025. Every corner of the space is exquisite, including a tonic bar, fitness gym, mosaic-tiled floors, private treatment rooms, and relaxing daybeds alongside multiple pools. I opted for a full-body massage, which left me limber and relaxed, and eager to try more treatments at the spa. Guests can also choose from a menu of a la carte treatments as well as seven- to 14-day retreats with a focus on longevity, metabolic balance, physical fitness, nutrition, sleep, and emotional well-being.

Each morning began with breakfast in a beautiful marble-adorned restaurant that was stuffed with local pastries, as well as Western options including eggs cooked to order. The property also has a range of restaurants with varied cuisines from acclaimed Michelin-star chefs. At Coccinella, Italian from the Alajmo brothers. At La Table, chef Eric Frechon brings French dining. At Le Mediterranee, one of Spains most revered chefs, the Michelin-starred chef Quique Dacosta (of Denia fame), focuses on Spanish classics such as paella and grilled seafood.

What to Pack

For the three-night trip, I packed everything in a carry-on suitcase and small leather duffel bag. For the duration of my stay, I rotated between swimsuits and sarongs worn with sandals for time spent at the beach, as well as light linen separates for daytime excursions. For the evenings, I opted for dresses and heels for some of the dining on property. The location lends itself to designs from local fashion designers such as breezy kaftans, and many guests had pieces they had picked up in Tangier before arriving at the property.

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Hotel Overview: Royal Mansour Casablanca

The Royal Mansour Casablanca, opened in April 2024, resurrected an iconic hotel that was built in 1953. The aim in the renovation was to preserve the design and mystique of the original property. The details of the original art deco space were both honored and refreshed in the space, which blends timeless elegance with modern luxury. Upon walking into the lobby, this is evident in the architecture and decor as well as the staff, who are dressed in an array of 1950s-inspired uniforms based on what the staff wore when the hotel first opened. A blend of retro and modern design, the Casablanca property is notably different in style and design to Tamuda Bay, which is more reflective of the coastal beach locale.

For those visiting Casablanca, I would also recommend booking a private city tour through the hotel. In a half day, the guide brought us to the Hassan II Mosque, a bakery to sample regional Ghriba almond cookies and flaky pastries, the old French quarter, and shops with everything from local argan oil to rugs and pottery.

The Finer Details

The hotel's brand-new spa is designed with gleaming pink and white marble, a plunge pool, fitness gym, and seven private treatment rooms. In the waiting room, I was treated to traditional Moroccan tea and walnut-stuffed dates before walking into an enormous private treatment room for a 24-karat-gold facial. Perhaps the biggest draw are the two hammam, where guests can experience signature treatments that include a soak and deep scrub using black soap and argan oil to unveil soft-to-the-touch skin.

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For dining, La Grande Table Marocaine focuses on Moroccan food. Perched on the 23rd floor, the restaurant offers a menu with traditional dishes, sweeping views overlooking Casablanca, and live musicians who play at sunset. I ordered the sampling of Moroccan salads, which was an excellent way to try the variety of local food from the region. Other options include Le Sushi Bar for Japanese, where I would recommend ordering the superb toro nigiri, and La Brasserie featuring French cuisine, where I dined each morning at breakfast on croissants, eggs, and fresh fruit.

For those interested in visiting both Royal Mansour Hotels in Casablanca and Tamuda Bay, the hotel suggested transport by train in the first-class cabin between Casablanca and Tangier, followed by car transfers, which was a seamless way to travel between the properties.

What to Pack

For the two-night trip, I packed separates, including white jeans, breathable linen pants, T-shirts, long-sleeve shirts, and lightweight knits for layering. While scarves often aren't required for female travelers, many local women in Casablanca wear headscarves, and I opted to pack a scarf, as it can be a respectful choice to wear one, especially when visiting religious sites.

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One person is dead after a fire tore through a mobile home on Cape Cod early Wednesday morning, officials said.

Emergency crews responding to a report of a fire at 86 Nathan Ellis Highway within the Lakeside Trailer Park in Mashpee shortly before 3:30 a.m. encountered heavy smoke and fire coming from a residence, according to the Mashpee Fire Department.

Firefighters were told that someone was possibly inside the home, but search efforts were significantly hindered by limited access and severe conditions, Mashpee Fire Chief Joseph Peltier said in a news release.

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State Fire Marshal Jon M. Davine noted that firefighters didnt hear smoke alarms upon arrival and that they had to cut a hole in the wall to gain access.

During an overhaul of the burned-out home, firefighters found one person inside a bedroom. The victim, whose name hasnt been released, was pronounced dead at the scene.

Massachusetts State Police and Davines office are assisting local authorities with an investigation into the deadly blaze.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Around two dozen federal agents descended on a wholesale seafood distribution site in Newark, New Jersey on Wednesday, taking 13 people into custody.

The raid began in the morning as heavily armed, masked federal agents, along with members of the FBI, made their presence known around the Ocean Seafood Depot, a food distributor on Adams Street.

Immigrant support groups quickly came to protest the raid which featured authorities in military gear and weapons on the ready.

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This is the second time this year this location has been targeted for an immigration raid. The first, which came back in January, led to workers being escorted out of the building.

One worker says he was one of the 15 taken into custody Wednesday morning, but he was later released.

"I'm not doing well because of what happened," the man said in Spanish. "I don't feel well because of what happened, because of what happened to my colleagues. I cannot answer any questions."

Another man hasn't heard from his mom who worked at Ocean Seafood Depot. He has not heard from her since the morning raid.

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"She told me police were here, so I came to see what was happening," the man said in Spanish.

When asked about the last time he talked to his mom, he said, when she texted him.

Tension ran high outside the building as workers and protesters came face to face, and the situation almost got out of hand.

Just after 12:30 p.m., a caravan of federal officers left the fish depot. Employees were allowed to go back inside, but the second raid this year at this location has left activists up in arms.

"This is just another message. This is just another stunt," said protester Kathy O'Leary. "This is them trying to terrorize the community."

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DHS spokesperson released a statement saying:

"On November 19, while executing a search warrant as part of a criminal investigation, ICE arrested 13 illegal aliens employed at Ocean Seafood Depot in Newark, New Jersey.

"Worksite enforcement remains a cornerstone of our efforts to protect public safety, national security, and economic stability while rescuing individuals who may be victims of labor trafficking or exploitation.

"Additionally, the employment of illegal aliens also incentivizes dangerous and illegal practices, including social security fraud. As we saw during a recent worksite operation in Nebraska, many illegal aliens use stolen social security numbers and identities to unlawfully obtain wages, health benefits and employment authorization. Behind every stolen social security number uncovered these operations is a real American-mothers, fathers, students, and disabled workers-now facing devastating financial, emotional, and legal fallout."

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After a 27-year-old North Carolina paramedic was hit and killed on the side of I-95 in Brevard County, it is sounding the alarm to slow down and move over.

Too many first responders are being killed, Paul Libri, the Founder of Slow Down Move Over Inc. said.

According to Libri, 27-year-old Mary Jolly is the third first responder to be killed on the side of a Florida roadway this year. He said that the number has reached 31 across the country.

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The first thing you should be doing is slowing down, Libri said. Once you slow down enough, move over when its safe to do so. If not, slow down 20 miles per hour below the speed limit.

Libri said that so far this year in Florida, there have been 204 crashes involving drivers not following the Move Over Law. For those breaking the law, he said, Florida law enforcement has written 17,544 citations.

This was three separate crashes that occurred it was a devastating crash, Tara Crescenzi with the Florida Highway Patrol said.

Troopers said Jolly was hit Saturday morning just after midnight on I-95 near State Road 46 in Mims. She was off-duty and pulled over to help a man who had been hit by a car.

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The man died at the scene. Jolly was airlifted to the hospital but died Monday.

Jolly was as a paramedic for Gaston County Emergency Services in North Carolina since 2021. The agency told us Jolly was highly decorated. In 2023 she earned the B-Shift Outstanding Paramedic Award.

She stopped to offer assistance because thats the kind of person she was, Libri said. Then she pays the ultimate price for it. To protect more lives Libri said penalties for not following the Move Over Law need to be stiffer.

If we hit people in their pocket they are going to pay attention, Libri said. Make it inconvenient for the people who are doing it.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
If you've been eagerly waiting to see more high-resolution images of a fascinating interstellar comet known as 3I/ATLAS, your wait is almost over.

NASA has announced that it will unveil a trove of 3I/ATLAS imagery captured by the space agency's fleet of instruments both on the ground and in space. The impending photo-dump, set to occur during a public event Wednesday, Nov. 19, comes more than three months since NASA first released a high-res image captured by its Hubble Space Telescope.

Since then, anticipation has been mounting for another glimpse of an object that has increasingly become a source of public obsession.

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First spotted by a ground telescope in Chile, 3I/ATLAS has made waves as just the third-ever interstellar interloper originating from another star spotted in Earth's solar system. The object, which the world's astronomers agree is a comet, also hasn't been able to shake a persistent conspiracy theory that it could be an alien spaceship.

Ready to get a better look at 3I/ATLAS? Here's what to know about the comet, and how to watch NASA release never-before-seen photos of it.

What is 3I/ATLAS? What to know about interstellar comet's visit near Earth

What is 3I/ATLAS?

An object known as 3I/ATLAS made news in July when it was confirmed to have originated outside Earth's solar system.

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The observation  first made by the NASA-funded Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System, or ATLAS  was reported to the Minor Planet Center. The object is also catalogued by NASAs Jet Propulsion Laboratory in Southern California.

Observations of 3I/ATLAS's speed and trajectory confirmed to astronomers that it formed in another star system and was ejected into interstellar space  the region between the stars, according to NASA. For potentially billions of years, the comet has drifted on a journey that recently brought it into our solar system.

NASA to release new photos of 3I/ATLAS. Here's how to watch

NASA will host a live event at 3 p.m. ET Wednesday, Nov. 19 to release never-before-seen photos of 3I/ATLAS. The images have been collected from the U.S. space agency's fleet of space and ground telescopes, as well as spacecraft orbiting other planets in our solar system, according to a press release.

Taking place at NASAs Goddard Space Flight Center in Maryland, the event will also stream live online.

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Coverage will be available on the agency's streaming app, NASA+  also available on YouTube and the agencys X account  as well as Amazon Prime. Netflix, which also provides some live NASA coverage, including rocket launches, is not promoting the event on its platform.

While members of the media are asked to register to ask questions during the event, the public can also have their questions answered in real time by using #AskNASA on social media.

Webb, Hubble among telescopes to study interstellar visitor

Unlike comets bound to the sun's gravity, 3I/ATLAS is traveling on a hyperbolic orbit that will eventually carry it out of the solar system and back into interstellar space. That's why the world's astronomers and space agencies are racing to study planetary material that formed from another star.

A fleet of NASA space telescopes  including the Hubble Space Telescope and the James Webb Space Telescope  have already returned images and data back to Earth gathered from glimpsing the comet.

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A ground telescope in Chile, Gemini South telescope, also glimpsed the comet's glowing tail in September, while a pair of Mars orbiters observed 3I/ATLAS when it came within about 19 million miles of the red planet in October.

How big is 3I/ATLAS?

Astronomers dont yet know exactly how big 3I/ATLAS could be, but estimates range from a few hundred feet to a few miles across, according to the European Space Agency. Hubble's data also allowed astronomers to estimate the size of the comets solid, icy nucleus as anywhere from about 1,400 feet to 3.5 miles wide, according to NASA.

3I/ATLAS completes close approach to sun, heads toward Earth

The comet 3I/ATLAS, which is not in danger of hitting Earth, is projected to make its closest approach to our planet on Dec. 19. On that day, the object will come within about 170 million miles of our planet  or about twice the distance between Earth and the sun.

The object flew within 130 million miles of the sun on Oct. 30, just inside the orbit of Mars. For reference, the sun is about 93 million miles away from Earth.

How fast is 3I/ATLAS flying through space?

When it was discovered, 3I/ATLAS was whizzing at about 137,000 miles per hour, according to NASA.

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The interstellar visitor, though, was expected to only pick up speed  reaching as fast at 153,000 mph  as it continued its journey toward the sun.

Now that it's moving away from the sun, the comet's speed will decrease as the sun's gravity pulls it back. By the time 3I/ATLAS leaves our solar system, it will be traveling at the same speed as when it entered, NASA says.

Eric Lagatta is the Space Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach him at elagatta@gannett.com

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: NASA to release never-before-seen photos of 3I/ATLAS. How to watch
A 5-year-old helped officers stop an attempted car theft in Ohio.

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The incident occurred on Thursday in Grove City, when officers were alerted to a stolen vehicle on Stringtown Road near State Route 104, according to our news partner, WBNS in Columbus.

Grove City Police said several suspects were riding a stolen car from Union County. The suspects were also accused of stealing from Dicks Sporting Goods, according to a police spokesperson.

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Dash camera video showed three of the five suspects running when officers attempted to stop the vehicle.

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One of the suspects ran across Interstate 71 and into a parking lot. Security video captured an attack on a woman who was there with her children, WBNS said.

Some random guy came up and hit me in my jaw, knocking me down, grabbing my keys, running, said Chasity Worrick.

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She told WBNS that her children chased the suspect to retrieve her keys.

My kids were running after and got my keys. He hit him and grabbed the keys. Then the officers took him down. It was that fast, said Worrick.

Her son Adrian, 5, said he acted.

Yay!! I did!! he told WBNS.

Grove City Lt. Jason Stern said that the childs reaction was remarkable. But added that police urge people not to chase suspects.

You see a young child say, Thats my mom, no. Pretty impressive, pretty brave, Stern said.

Body camera video shows an officer arriving at the parking lot and arresting the suspect after the attempted theft.

Police identified the suspect as Shaliq Bring. He is facing multiple charges, including two counts of robbery, police said.

Photo contributed by WBNS-TV

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9 jurors seated after Day 1 of jury selection in Brian Walshe murder trial

The first day of jury selection in the murder trial of Brian Walshe concluded Tuesday with nine jurors seated.

Six men and three women currently make up the jury in the highly publicized trial for the murder of Ana Walshe. Prosecutors and the defense hope to ultimately seat 16 individuals.

Walshe entered a plea of guilty on charges of misleading police and unlawful disposal of a body on Tuesday.

Freniere asked Walshe if he willfully removed the body of his wife, Ana Walshe, from their home. Walshe said, Yes, your honor.

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Walshe is charged with murdering and dismembering his wife over New Years Eve 2023 at their Cohasset home. He was deemed competent to stand trial last week. Had Walshe been found not competent, his charges may have been suspended indefinitely or even dismissed if his competency could not have been restored.

Last month, lawyers for Walshe asked Freniere to change the venue of his trial due to concerns over finding a fair and impartial jury. Freniere denied that motion on Friday, ordering the trial to go on as planned in Dedham.

This all comes after Walshe was stabbed inside the Norfolk County Sheriffs Correctional Center in September.

Walshe is accused of killing and dismembering Ana with a hacksaw and disposing of her remains after using his sons iPad to Google the best ways to get rid of a body.

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In March 2023, a Norfolk County grand jury indicted Walshe on a charge of murder, misleading a police investigation/obstruction of justice, and improper conveyance of a human body in connection with his wifes death.

Ana, a mother of three young children and a real estate professional who worked in Washington, D.C., vanished on New Years Day 2023 and was reported missing a few days later, authorities said.

Prosecutors have alleged that Walshe killed his wife in their Cohasset home on New Years Day. The couples three young boys were reportedly home at the time.

Brian Walshe, left, is facing murder and other charges following the disappearance of his wife, Ana Walshe, left, on Jan. 1, 2023.

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Brian Walshe status hearing on his wifes murder case set for March 1

DA: Brian Walshe indicted on murder charges of wife Ana Walshe

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25 Investigates: Brian Walshes damaging digital footprint

Brian Walshe appears at Quincy District Court on a charge of murdering his wife (inset),Ana Walshe, in Quincy, Massachusetts, U.S. on January 18, 2023. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Craig F. Walker/Pool via Reuters, Facebook)

Brian Walshe escorted into court for murder arraignment

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Brian Walshe appears in court for allegedly misleading police

The dumpsters taken away from Brian Walshe's mothers apartment. Taken to Peabody for investigation

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Brian Walshe spotted at juice bar day after wife disappears

Authorities search North Shore dumpster station for evidence in disappearance of Ana Walshe

Brian Walshe kisses his new bride, Ana Walshe, on their wedding day. (Facebook photo)

Ana Walshe

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Ana Walshe

Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home

Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home

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Police investigating Ana Walshe's home

Police investigating outside of Ana Walshe's Cohasset home

Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Police investigating Ana Walshe's home

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Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Ana Walshe

Ana Walshe

The pool that was drained outside the Walshe home

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Brian Walshe, the husband of Ana Walshe

Days after Anas disappearance, a hacksaw and a blood-soaked rug believed to contain biological evidence were recovered from their home by investigators.

Police later searched trash bins, dumpsters, trash trucks, and trash facilities in the areas where Brian Walshe traveled following her disappearance.

Prosecutors have also previously said that a broken knife with blood on it was found in the basement of the Walshe family home.

Anas body has never been found.

Walshe is currently serving a three-year prison sentence for selling fake Andy Warhol paintings. He has been held without bail since his arrest.

Day 2 of jury selection will continue Wednesday morning.

Opening statements and testimony in the trial are scheduled to begin on December 1.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing took over responsibility for many of Iowa's licensing boards in July 2023. (Photo illustration via Getty Images; logo courtesy of the Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing)

A physician assistant facing criminal charges for allegedly sexually assaulting female patients claims the states rationale for suspending his license is contradicted by the evidence.

Late last year, the Iowa Board of Physician Assistants issued an emergency order suspending the license of James Haag, who was practicing occupational medicine at MercyOnes Bluebell Road Family Medicine in Cedar Falls.

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In its order, the board cited Haags predatory actions towards his patients (that) constitute a threat to public health. The board alleged Haag sexually assaulted multiple patients in his care and that he posed an immediate danger to the public health, safety and welfare.

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In April, after a disciplinary hearing, the board concluded Haags conduct warranted a three-year suspension of his license.

Haag was also criminally charged in connection with the alleged assaults, and is currently facing two counts of third-degree sexual abuse, two counts of assault with intent to commit sexual abuse, and three counts of simple assault. He has pleaded not guilty to the charges, and a trial is now set for April 28, 2026.

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With the criminal case still pending, Haag is seeking judicial review of the boards decision to suspend his license. Responding to the boards recent claims that there is ample evidence Haag inappropriately touched four of his patients in sexual manner, Haags attorney, Trent Nelson, has argued to the court that the issue isnt what evidence the board relied upon, but whether the boards stated findings are supported by that evidence.

Statements that the board attributed to the hearing witnesses as a basis for its decision are inconsistent with the testimony provided under oath during hearing, Nelson says in a brief filed with the court.

Among the alleged inconsistencies in the testimony and the boards findings, as described by Nelson:

 Chaperone: The board found that a particular patient was not offered a chaperone, although the woman testified she was offered a chaperone.

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 Gown: The board found that one patients gown was completely untied, although she testified it was not.

 Haags hand: The board found that Haag placed his hand under a patients gown, although she testified he had not.

 Timing: The board found that Haag moved his hands away from a patients groin when the chaperone entered the room, although the patient testified the chaperone did not come into the room until after the exam was over.

 Clothing: The board found that Haag put his fingers beneath one patients underwear, although the patient testified to the contrary.

The Iowa Board of Physician Assistants found, in a published ruling, that Mr. Haag committed actions  alleged sexual abuse  to which the witnesses themselves testified, under oath, did not occur, Nelson argues. This cannot be tolerated.

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In his brief, Nelson also noted that in court filings made on behalf of the board, the states attorneys have alleged that Haag admitted to the police during the investigation he had no reason to think the alleged victims were working in coordination with each other, telling investigators, Ive got no indication that these guys are working in cahoots  because, like I said, I cant find any connection.

Nelson asserts the states lawyers have misattributed that comment to Haag when the evidence indicates it was made by a police officer.

The board has alleged that even if all of the factual discrepancies or contradictions in the case were settled in Haags favor, his misconduct would still have been substantiated, and his license would still be suspended for three years.

Board records show that as part of his work at Bluebell Road Family Medicine, Haag performed job-related physicals for individuals who worked at a local business.

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The licensing board alleges that in July 2024, Haag examined four patients for purposes of their employment and in some cases pressed his fully clothed pelvic area into the patients genitals or backside and made inappropriate contact with multiple patients breasts.

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The FBI is investigating the death of a teen that occurred on international waters during a family vacation

Anna Kepner, 18, of Florida, was reportedly found dead under a bed in her stateroom cabin aboard the Carnival Horizon in early November

She had that type of energy that just drew you in with her smile, her relatives said after her death

Police are investigating the death of a teen whose body was found aboard a Carnival cruise ship during a family trip.

Relatives previously identified the victim as 18-year-old Anna Kepner of Titusville, Fla., in a Nov. 9 interview with ABC News. The high school cheerleader was found dead while traveling on the Carnival Horizon cruise ship from Miami to the Caribbean on Nov. 8.

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A housekeeper found Kepner's body under the bed in her stateroom, CBS News reported on Tuesday, Nov. 18, citing law enforcement sources.

Anna Kepner/Instagram Anna Kepner Anna Kepner

The death of a guest traveling on the Carnival Horizon voyage that returned to PortMiami on Saturday morning, Nov. 8, is being investigated, a Carnival Cruise Line spokesperson told PEOPLE on Nov. 10, adding that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was investigating the death.

Since this is an ongoing matter under the jurisdiction of law enforcement, it is up to the FBIs Miami public affairs office to provide further details. Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest, the statement said.

The Miami-Dade Police Department and the FBIs Miami Division did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs request for comment on Tuesday.

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Kepner had been traveling in the Caribbean with her dad, his wife and three of Kepners stepsiblings when she was discovered dead on the Carnival cruise ship while it was en route back to Miami, where it docked on Nov. 8, CBS News reported.

Her family said the high schooler told them the night before she died that she was not feeling well, so she went back to her room, per the outlet.

Speaking to ABC News after her death, the teens loved ones said Kepner was a people person. She loved being around people. She had that type of energy that just drew you in with her smile.

The teen had plans to join the military once she graduated in May and had already done the necessary testing.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

She was already talking to recruiters and had chosen her career path. She wanted to do something that would help her community, her family told ABC News.

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The investigation remains ongoing, as law enforcement and the FBI check surveillance video, electronic swipe card data and interview others who were on the ship during the time of Kepners family trip, CBS News reported.



Read the original article on People
The job market in 2025 has been considered static. Thats both good: Layoffs have been steady, and the unemployment rate remains low by historical standards. And bad: Its hard to find a job if youre looking.

But a raft of job cut announcements this fall from big companies like Amazon, Verizon, and Target calls into question the state of what has been deemed a no-hire, no-fire labor market.

Economists are certainly watching the trend with a careful eye.

All the signs point to were moving from no-hire, no-fire labor market to no-hire, start-to-fire' labor market, said Heather Long, chief economist at Navy Federal Credit Union.

What official data says

On Thursday, the US received its first official report on the state of the job market since August. The report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics showed the economy unexpectedly added 119,000 jobs in September, while the unemployment rate nudged up slightly to 4.4%

But the data is somewhat stale: Thanks to the government shutdown, the September jobs report was published almost seven weeks late. It also reflected the period before layoff announcements began mounting, accounting for the worst October for planned cuts since 2003, according to global outplacement firm Challenger, Gray & Christmas.

Learn more: Worried about financial security? Here's how to protect your finances.

WARN notices, or the heads-up big companies are required to provide ahead of mass layoffs, spiked in 21 states last month to reach 39,006, among the highest levels in records dating back to 2006, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Cleveland. (The number still trailed layoffs from the 2020 pandemic and Great Recession, as well as May of this year.)

Ahead of those announcements, layoffs and the unemployment rate had otherwise been considered relatively stable, though people were still struggling to find work as firms added few new positions. Whether thats set to shift in a significant way as companies plan workforce reductions  a reality in corporate America even when the economy is considered strong  is up for debate.

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The question has caught the attention of officials at the Federal Reserve.

One thing on the soft data that Ive been hearing more and more, talking to a lot of people  is four to six weeks ago we were still in this kind of no-hire, no-fire mode, Fed Governor Chris Waller said Monday. Theyre starting to talk about layoffs. Theyre starting to plan for them in the future. It could be AI-related; it could be a lot of other things.

Thats whats got me more concerned, he added.
Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) and New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani seem reluctant to support a progressive primary challenge of House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.).

I certainly dont think a primary challenge to the leader is a good thing right now, Ocasio-Cortez told Axios on Monday after New York City Councilmember and democratic socialist Chi Osse filed his paperwork for the seat.

Politics: David Hogg Shares Theory On Hakeem Jeffries And NYC Mayoral Race: 'I'm Not Afraid To Say'

Mamdani also seemed to imply that Osses skills could be effectively used in New York City instead of D.C.

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While I appreciate the great work that Councilmember Osse has done on the council, especially for tenants, I believe that there are many ways right here in New York City to both deliver on an affordability agenda and take on the authoritarian administration in the White House, Mamdani said on Monday.

According to a New York Times report, Mamdani had also discouraged Osse from running and expressed concerns that another prominent primary contest could endanger his ability to advance an affordability agenda with the Democratic establishment.

Osse told HuffPosts Taiyler Mitchell in a statement that he aimed to challenge Jeffries because Democratic leadership had failed to effectively fight back against Donald Trump and to deliver a vision that we can all believe in.

Chi Osse, New York City councilmember, speaks as Starbucks Workers United members picket outside a Starbucks store in the Brooklyn borough of New York, US, on Thursday, Nov. 13, 2025. Workers United, which represents staff at about 550 of Starbucks Corp.'s roughly 10,000 company-owned US cafes, plans to strike on Thursday in at least 40 cities. Photographer: Christian Monterrosa/Bloomberg via Getty Images Bloomberg via Getty Images

His decision to file with the Federal Election Commission comes after Jeffries stood by Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer despite progressive backlash toward the latters handling of the government shutdown.

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Osse, 27, was elected to represent Bedford-Stuyvesant and North Crown Heights in 2021. He previously organized demonstrations against police brutality and has successfully advocated for legislation to curb broker fees for tenants.

News: House Speaker And Majority Leader Trash Jeffries Endorsement Of Zohran Mamdani

When asked about Osses expected bid on Monday, Ocasio-Cortez told Axios she was not aware of it at the time.

Spokespeople for Ocasio-Cortez and Mamdani did not immediately respond to a request for comment or elaborate on the rationale behind their statements.

Adam Green, a co-founder of the Progressive Change Campaign Committee, suggested that timing was one of the factors behind the opposition to Osses potential run.

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Especially at this moment, just after Mamdanis big victory and House Democrats holding firm during the shutdown fight, it is not the right moment to launch a primary challenge to Hakeem Jeffries, Green said in a statement to Politico.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
The remains of an area Korean War veteran have returned home.

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U.S. Army Cpl. Earl Kibbey went missing in action on Dec. 3, 1950.

His remains landed at Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky (CVG) International Airport on Tuesday.

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The Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency identified his remains in August, according to a spokesperson.

Kibbeys remains were given a police escort as they traveled from CVG through Blanchester to a Wilmington funeral home in Clinton County.

Folks lined the street along the route to pay their respects and support to the family.

Kibbeys name is memorialized on the Courts of Missing at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, the spokesperson said.

His name is also inscribed on the Korean War Veterans Memorial Wall in Washington, D.C.

It was updated in 2022 to include the names of the fallen.

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Utah Valley University expected just 600 people to turn up at the event on its campus, where Charlie Kirk was assassinated in September, according to newly-released records. In reality, the headcount was closer to 3,000.

The Turning Point USA founder, 31, was shot dead on the schools campus in the community of Orem on September 10 while taking part in an outdoor debating session with students at its Sorensen Student Center courtyard on what was intended to be the first leg of his American Comeback tour.

Kirk, a married father of two, was shot in the neck by a snipers bullet fired from a nearby rooftop. A suspect, Tyler Robinson, 22, was arrested following a brief manhunt.

Charlie Kirk speaks before he is shot during Turning Point USA's visit to Utah Valley University in Orem, Utah, on Wednesday September 10, 2025 (AP)

Robinson was subsequently charged with aggravated murder, one count of felony discharge of a firearm, two counts of obstruction of justice, two counts of witness tampering, and one count of violence committed in the presence of a child. Utah state prosecutors have said they will seek the death penalty, and he is due back in court in January.

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We had probably over 3,000 people who were in attendance, UVU Police Chief Jeffrey Long told reporters at a press conference shortly after the incident, stating that he had six officers working at the event and that Kirk had brought his own security team.

But, in a partially-redacted questionnaire seen by ABC News, it is revealed that a student member of Turning Points UVU chapter had initially selected a 200+ box on an online form estimating the likely attendance during the planning stage, an assessment that was subsequently placed at 600 but was still well short of the final total, as it transpired.

Officers protect students, employees, visitors, and property, and take a proactive approach to crime prevention, education, and community engagement, UVU said in a statement defending its campus security.

UVU is currently in the process of hiring eight additional police officers. UVU is also hiring two new security managers to provide additional oversight and support for campus events.

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A Turning Point USA official offered more details about the booking when they told ABC: On an online form submitted in early July, a TPUSA UVU chapter member selected 200+ as the max attendance option available on the school's online form.

An estimate of 600 was later provided a few weeks later via an event request form, which was based on a similar event the year prior at the University of Utah.

Kirks crowd reacts in horror as they realise he has been shot (AP)

Subsequent conversations between school officials and TPUSAs Safety Team updated that estimate to 1,500-2,000 based on more recent Prove Me Wrong campus events. The events are un-ticketed and open to the public, including those just walking by, but PD and event coordinators estimated the attendance at approximately 3,000.

The documents released by UVU also show a person whose name is redacted, suggesting in August that a change of venue should be considered, writing: We think that the FL Quad would be a better space-wise for the group, if they get a large crowd in the area. This recommendation was apparently considered but ultimately not taken up.

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The Turning Point member who completed the original questionnaire and scheduled the event answered no to the question: Will EMS [emergency medical services] need to be scheduled for your event? That meant that there was no first aid station on hand, so Kirk had to be taken to a nearby hospital, where he ultimately died, rather than be treated by medics at the scene.

Earlier this week, a poll conducted by NBC revealed that a majority of Americans believe extreme political rhetoric was the principal cause behind Kirks killing, revealing rare cross-party agreement on the opinion that inflammatory language used by prominent political figures and the media had been a decisive factor, rather than simply attributing the attack to the actions of a disturbed individual.
Carmella Bowers and her son Johnnie Boykins are fighting to exonerate Boyers' son Darren Boykins, who was convicted for the 1981 murder of Milton Laufer in Newark. (Dana DiFilippo | New Jersey Monitor)

A retired attorney fighting to exonerate a Newark man imprisoned for 44 years for a 1981 murder hes always claimed he did not commit has taken his fight to state court, accusing police, prosecutors, judges, and others of misconduct.

Authorities failed to divulge exculpatory evidence that could have cleared Darren Boykins from suspicion in the May 22, 1981, slaying of carpet salesman Milton Laufer and covered up or dismissed evidence that could have freed Boykins from jail in his post-conviction appeals and parole bids, attorney John Crayton argued in a petition filed in Essex County Superior Court last week. Crayton wants a judge to vacate the conviction.

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Boykins, who was 19 at the time of his arrest, has always claimed he did not kill Laufer. Hes now 64 and incarcerated at New Jersey State Prison in Trenton, where he is under psychiatric care.

He had an alibi the day of the murder, investigators never found a murder weapon, and two witnesses repeatedly could not identify him as the killer. But jurors convicted him largely on the word of a jailhouse informant, who later recanted, and a photo lineup 39 days after the homicide that Crayton contends was improper.

Crayton spent six months reinvestigating the case and sent a lengthy report last winter to various authorities laying out evidence he says shows Boykins was wrongly convicted. He has pushed unsuccessfully for Gov. Phil Murphy to grant Boykins clemency and the state attorney generals conviction review unit to review his conviction.

I still am hoping that someone will read what Ive sent them before and look at what I just filed  and take a hard look at the case and come to the difficult but courageous decision that what happened to Darren 44 years ago was terribly wrong, Crayton said.

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Carmen Martin, a spokeswoman for the Essex County Prosecutors Office, declined to comment Tuesday.

Darren Boykins was 19, pictured at left, when he was arrested in the 1981 murder of Milton Laufer in Newark. Boykins, at right, is now 64 and imprisoned at New Jersey State Prison in Trenton. (Photos courtesy of Carmella Bowers and New Jersey Department of Corrections)

Boykins has been eligible for parole since 2006 but twice has been denied release by a board critics have complained routinely rejects parole-eligible prisoners bids for freedom. Hell be eligible again in March. Crayton has petitioned the court for limited guardianship so that he can argue before the state parole board for Boykins release.

Hes also working to line up a psychiatric placement in the community for Boykins, in hopes that he prevails in his fight. He regards Boykins continued incarceration as a failure of both the criminal justice system that condemned him to life behind bars as well as reformers whose inaction keeps him there despite proof of injustice.

Why in the world is a soon-to-be 74-year-old, semi-retired attorney sitting in his garage office bringing forward a potential exoneration case in New Jersey? Crayton said. Somebody else ought to be doing that.

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The Sri Lankan Department of Wildlife Conservation apprehended a person trying to sell elephant pearls. The incident was part of a sting operation to combat wildlife trafficking.

What's happening?

Near the Mahiyanganaya Indigenous Village, one person was preparing to sell what HIRU News described as the "largest single haul" of elephant pearls in Sri Lanka. The outlet valued the pearls at around 300 million Sri Lankan rupees (over $3.38 million).

According to HIRU News, people from many wildlife offices coordinated a sting operation to seize the elephant pearls.

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What officials found, however, was more than just the pearls.

Leopard skin and oil, elephant tusks, animal traps, Karuwala wood, and the Damba plant were also found in the seized haul, per the outlet. The person is now in custody and must appear before the court following further investigations.

And unfortunately, illegal wildlife trade is a widespread issue, with issues stemming from supplement companies in Mexico to tiger smuggling across Asia.

Why is it important to stop wildlife poaching?

Elephant pearls are not genuine pearls, but they resemble the ones you'd find in an oyster or mussel. According to the Sunday Times, some people believe the pearls may have healing and good luck properties, which may contribute to the trade.

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Aside from the elephant pearls, poaching of this wild animal is common for many other reasons. For example, the tusks  which are made of ivory  are often in high demand for jewelry, decor, and traditional medicine, per the International Fund for Animal Welfare.

Poaching wild animals like the elephant can lead to many issues that affect entire communities. On a cultural level, elephants can be symbolic, while in the physical world, they help with seed dispersal and shaping the environment, per IFAW.

Additionally, innocent people and park rangers may end up in the crossfire of wildlife crime, as the World Wildlife Fund reported. These devastating impacts can lead to injury or death.

Not to mention, wildlife smuggling may introduce invasive species that crowd out native biodiversity or zoonotic diseases that can harm people, pets, and local animals.

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For instance, illegal trade can raise the risk of diseases like Ebola or bird flu and increase the number of invasive species per country, according to the National Resources Defense Council.

What's being done about elephant poaching?

Although wildlife trafficking is a significant problem, many groups are working to stop it.

For instance, the IFAW encourages educational campaigns about the dangers of wildlife trafficking, especially in areas where it's common. Additionally, the group provides training and equipment to local communities to help end poaching.

Meanwhile, WWF works to improve conservation efforts of elephants and other threatened species. By connecting with potential buyers of illegal products on social media and working with local tourism agencies, the group can help reduce poaching.

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You can also get involved by reporting suspicious activity and supporting conservation initiatives.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.




A restaurant owner from New Jersey walked out of an ICE detention facility in Newark after being held there for weeks.

He's been in the United States for decades, and has a work visa that was just renewed a year ago, but only after spending nearly a month in immigration detention at Newark's Delaney Hall, Ruperto Vicens Marquez is finally home.

"Really happy to get out and grateful for everything," Vicens Marquez said.

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He's especially grateful to his community of Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, where people attended rally after rally, demanding the beloved chef be released from the facility.

Vicens Marquez shares a pair of restaurants with his brother, Emilio. His brother says customers helped him get through the last four weeks without his right hand man.

"Many times, people were waiting so long. And I was so embarrassed but there was nothing I could do, so I was apologizing with the people," Emilio Vicens Marquez said. "And most of the times I hear, 'don't worry Emilio. We know your situation. We can wait.'"

Ruperto Vicens Marquez, originally from Mexico, was pulled over on his way to work on Oct. 19, and was detained with someone else who was suspected of an immigration violation.

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But the restaurant owner has been a legal resident of the U.S. since he was 18, and has work permit that was renewed last year and is valid through 2028.

"When I got detained, none of that seemed to matter. It was just like, 'you're coming with us.' It happened just really quickly," he said.

He spoke to Eyewitness News after getting home Tuesday night, and says his wife and three kids were thrilled.

"That was the first thing. When I came, they jumped in my arms," he said. "We were hugging. They were really excited that I'm back and we have the family."

The community is outraged that the 38-year-old with no criminal record, couldn't explain his situation and verify his status with a judge until Monday.

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The brothers say they're working toward citizenship and have tried to take every step the right way, and can understand why so many immigrants like them are now fearful.

"Seems like whatever we do, we pay fees, we spend time, we pay taxes. So much money in taxes. We also hire people. We help other people, and nothing counts," Emilio Vicens Marquez said.

Ruperto Vicens Marquez's case continues, and one of the things he had to explain to the judge was an arrest 15 years ago for a non-violent incident in which he was never convicted.

As he and his brother Emilio pursue citizenship in the future, he says right now he wants to get back in the kitchen at his restaurant, which doesn't feel like work.

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Former President Joe Biden will attend former Vice President Dick Cheneys funeral in Washington on Thursday, a spokesperson for Biden confirmed to POLITICO.

Cheney, who died from complications of pneumonia earlier this month at the age of 84, was guided by a strong set of conservative values, Biden said in a statement after Cheneys death was announced.

While we didnt agree on much, he believed, as I do, that family is the beginning, middle and end, Biden added.

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Biden will be among a handful of high-profile leaders to attend the funeral at the Washington National Cathedral. Cheneys daughter, former Rep. Liz Cheney (R-Wyo.), and former President George W. Bush, whom Cheney served two terms under, are also expected to attend.

Bush will give a tribute at Thursday's ceremony, according to the cathedrals website, and Cheneys daughter and grandchildren are expected to deliver remarks as well.

It is unclear if other presidents will be in attendance.

Though former President Barack Obama extended condolences to Cheneys family, President Donald Trump has remained silent on the former vice presidents death. Cheney endorsed former Vice President Kamala Harris over Trump in the 2024 presidential election.

White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Nov. 4 that Trump was aware of Cheneys death and that flags had been lowered to half-staff "in accordance with statutory law."
The Indiana Senate voted Tuesday to adjourn until January as its Republican supermajority continues to resist pressure from President Donald Trump to redraw the states congressional lines.

Gov. Mike Braun responded by threatening to compel the Senate into a special session to vote on redistricting at Trumps behest.

It was the latest chapter in an escalating intraparty battle in Indiana over the White Houses monthslong effort to bolster the partys US House majority in time for next years midterm elections. Republicans now hold seven of Indianas nine US House seats, and Trump is seeking new maps that would give the GOP a shot at a 9-0 sweep.

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Indiana takes on more urgency for national Republicans after a federal court invalidated Texas Republicans new map that would have given them a better shot at gaining five new seats. While Texas officials immediately moved to appeal the ruling, losing that prospective five-seat gain could put the GOP multiple seats behind Democrats in the redistricting battle Trump triggered.

However, despite Trump taking to social media this week to threaten to back primary challenges to senators who oppose redistricting, there were no signs at the statehouse on Tuesday that the opposition would yield.

Ive been a legislator 42 years. Im not going to change my vote, said Sen. Vaneta Becker, an Evansville Republican who told CNN her office has received more than 750 calls opposing redistricting and 37 in favor.

Hoosiers are not used to being sort of in blackmail position. It does not bode well, Becker said.

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Lawmakers gathered in Indianapolis for organization day  the long-planned ceremonial start to the 2026 legislative session. The Senate voted 29-19 to meet again on January 5, a vote that implicitly rejected Brauns call for a redistricting-focused special session.

Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray, a Martinsville Republican who infuriated Trump when he issued a statement saying the Senate does not have enough votes to pass new maps, told reporters Tuesday that the adjournment vote was fairly indicative of the vote that you might have seen if the Senate had voted on new congressional maps.

Trump this week has threatened to back primary opponents to take on Bray, who isnt up for reelection until 2028, and other Republicans who opposed redistricting, arguing that they are standing in the way of the GOP retaining its majority on Capitol Hill for the last two years of Trumps presidency. Braun responded later Tuesday afternoon with a statement backing Trumps primary threats and suggesting he will seek to force the Senate into session to vote on redistricting.

Unfortunately, Sen. Rod Bray was forced to partner with DEMOCRATS to block an effort by the growing number of America First Senators who wanted to have a vote on passing fair maps. Now I am left with no choice other than to explore all options at my disposal to compel the State Senate to show up and vote, Braun said in a statement. I will support President Trumps efforts to recruit, endorse, and finance primary challengers for Indianas senators who refuse to support fair maps.

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Trump on Monday posted on Truth Social: A RINO State Senator, Rodric Bray, who doesnt care about keeping the Majority in the House in D.C., is the primary problem. Soon, he will have a Primary Problem, as will any other politician who supports him in this stupidity.

Bray on Tuesday said he has had a couple conversations with Trump about redistricting and said he is honored to talk to the president.

Indiana Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray speaks in the Senate chamber at the Statehouse in Indianapolis, on April 23, 2025. - AJ Mast/AP/File

Frankly, I know that hes passionate about this issue. Ive explained to him, as I tried to explain to you guys today, that we want to be helpful. We want to see a Republican majority in the House of Representatives. And this is the best way forward, as we see it, he said.

Bray argued that even without new maps, Republicans have a chance to win the 1st District, a traditionally blue seat in northwestern Indiana, and hold eight of Indianas nine House seats.

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A number of our caucus members, myself included, dont see this as a binary choice between the 7-2 ratio that you have right now and redistricting into an automatic 9-0, Bray said.

Trump and his political allies had launched an advertising pressure campaign aimed at forcing the state Senates hand.

Some veteran Republican legislators said the primary threats rang hollow because of their constituents near-unanimous opposition to redistricting.

Hoosiers are very thoughtful, and I know for myself, I represent my constituents, Becker said.

She added that its not a good look for legislators, in my opinion, to kowtow to that.

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But state Sen. Mike Young, a veteran Indianapolis Republican, took to the floor Tuesday to lambast Bray for refusing Brauns call for a special session. Young said it was a slap in the face of the governor of the state of Indiana to do something like this.

Imagine waking up on Wednesday, the day after elections next November, and we find ourselves in the minority by one or two votes  knowing that we have the opportunity to make sure that doesnt happen, Young said. Elections have consequences, and we won.

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The Arizona Republic and azcentral.com relocated from its longtime downtown Phoenix home to midtown with blessings.

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix dispatched Father John Muir to formally bless the news organization's new office the morning of Nov. 17 as employees moved in.

Muir read a psalm for protection and remarked on how journalists write the first draft of history while often covering trying events within the community. He walked about the newsroom, dousing it with holy water.

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Debra Utacia Krol, The Republic's Indigenous affairs reporter and a member of the Xolon Salinan Tribe, also performed a blessing that included a song and prayer and a smudging of sage at the entrance.

Based in downtown Phoenix since its founding in 1890, The Republic is carving out a space in the redeveloped Park Central in midtown.

Muir serves as the vicar general of the diocese and is pastor of St. Mary's Basilica, located close to 200 E. Van Buren St., where The Republic had operated since 1995.

Before that, The Republic was across the street at 120 E. Van Buren, a building that went up in 1947. The newspaper's original home was near First Avenue and Washington Street, in the Heard building.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Ceremonial blessings mark The Arizona Republic's move to midtown Phoenix
The body of a missing San Diego fisherman popular on YouTube was found in waters off Mexico, the mans family said in an update on GoFundMe.

Mikey Rijavec, known for his YouTube channel "SD Fish and Sips," was on a fishing trip off Baja California, Mexico, on Nov. 11 when he made a mayday call from his solo skiff, according to a post on the GoFundMe page.

Rijavec's boat experienced engine issues, and while he was trying to fix them, the motor dislodged, causing the boat to flip, the post said. While he was able to upright the skiff, it had taken on water.

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"We know nothing about what happened to Mikey after that," the GoFundMe post said.

U.S. and Mexican authorities joined the search-and rescue-effort, using boats and aircraft to look for Rijavec. According to the GoFundMe page, local boats and private planes hired by the family were also used

The U.S. Coast Guard said the case was transferred to the Mexican navy, and it did not have any updates when NBC News asked. The Mexican navy did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Rijavec's family ended the search for him Saturday, his brother wrote on GoFundMe, saying that despite "missing pieces and details to be confirmed" about Rijavec's disappearance, "those directly involved in the search have had access to the information as it was available and exhausted every effort."

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The boat was recovered during the four-day search, but efforts to locate Rijavecs body proved unsuccessful at first. It was ultimately found Sunday, a day after his family ended the search, in the water near San Cristobal, his brother said on GoFundMe.

"Mikey was mindful and present every day, and that allowed him to live a longer life than can be measured on a calendar," the GoFundMe account said. "Mikey prepared us to deal with this, and if we live by his example, we will not only be OK, we will be better."

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
UK-based oil and gas operator Ithaca Energy has signed a farm-in agreement with Shell UK for a 50% working interest in licences P2629 and P2630 containing the Tobermory gas discovery in the West of Shetland basin.

Upon completion of the farm-in agreement, Shell UK will continue to hold a 50% stake in the Tobermory discovery and serve as the licence operator.

The company said that the agreement builds on its investment strategy for the West of Shetland basin.

Ithaca Energy also stated that this move positions the company as a significant player in a key gas hub in the area and supports the UKs energy security.

Along with its existing 50/50 joint venture with Shell in the Tornado discovery, the new farm-in agreement strengthens its position in the area, added Ithaca Energy.

Ithaca Energy executive chairman Yaniv Friedman said: We are delighted to announce the farm-in to the Tobermory discovery and to continue our strategic partnership with Shell UK in the area.

The West of Shetland represents a key basin for the Groups long-term growth, with the ongoing development of the Rosebank field and the continued progression of the Cambo and Tornado discoveries towards final investment decision.

Our investment in the West of Shetland basin is critical not only to the UKs Energy Security strategy but also in supporting thousands of highly skilled jobs and our world-class supply chain and providing significant gross value add to the UK economy.

Ithaca Energy claims to be one of the largest independent oil and gas companies operating on the UK Continental Shelf, ranking second-largest by production.

In March this year, Ithaca Energy signed a sale and purchase agreement to acquire the complete issued shares of JAPEX UK (JUK) E&P from Japan Petroleum Exploration.

The transaction, carrying an enterprise value of $193m (149.5m), enhances the companys interest in the Seagull oilfield in the UK North Sea from 35% to 50%.

"Ithaca signs farm-in agreement with Shell for Tobermory discovery in UK " was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Charlotte, N.C., is now the focus of immigration enforcement, and it's causing chaos in the city, as well as other parts of the state.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents began enforcement of federal immigration laws in Charlotte on Saturday. On Monday, a press release said it had rounded up 130 "illegal aliens" in its raids, which it has dubbed "Charlotte's Web."

"Illegal aliens with criminal histories and warrants don't hang out in front of big box hardware stores? Well, then, how did we find this illegal alien from Honduras there?" Greg Bovino, commander-at-large of the agency, said on social media.

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Federal agents smashed the window of a truck and pulled the driver -- a U.S. citizen -- to the ground, thousands of public school students are staying home from school and businesses are closing, USA Today reported.

The raids are in response to Charlotte's refusal to cooperate with the federal government on immigration, CBP said.

"Sanctuary policies prevented nearly 1,400 detainers from being honored, putting criminal illegal aliens back on Charlotte's streets," a press release from Saturday said.

But Charlotte is not a sanctuary city, USA Today reported. North Carolina has strict immigration laws.

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"No cities in the state have sanctuary policies; if they did they would be violating state law," Rick Su, a professor of law at the University of North Carolina, told USA Today. He specializes in immigration and local government.

No city in North Carolina was on the Justice Department's list of sanctuary jurisdictions.

"There is absolutely no excuse to continue allowing criminal illegal aliens to terrorize our American communities," said a DHS spokesperson, who wasn't named, in a press release.

"These are violent assailants, gang members and repeat offenders who have zero regard for the rule of law in our country. They are here illegally and should never have been here in the first place. Under President Trump and Secretary Noem, we are REMOVING the worst of the worst criminal illegal aliens from our communities once and for all."

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On Wednesday, Edward Cramer, a construction supervisor, told CBS 17 that he saw federal agents take two of his workers in Cary, a suburb of Raleigh.

"The guy walked out of the building," Cramer said. "They snatched him and put him in the van."

"They grabbed one of those boys," he said. "About a half-mile up the road, they looked at his wallet and saw he was a citizen. They pulled him out of the van and threw his wallet out the window. He had to walk back here."

"There's not a lot of workers outside," said Kevin Rodriguez, who works for a roofing company in Charlotte, to the Charlotte News and Observer. "A lot of people didn't show up. Maybe some of them are legal here and maybe some of them aren't, but everybody's getting profiled due to skin color.

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"It's a little bit scary having to look over your shoulder every once in a while nowadays because of your skin tone," Rodriguez said. "American citizen or not."

David Ravin, CEO of developer Northwood Ravin, told the News and Observer that his subcontractors were reporting numerous absences Monday.

"We have three active projects under construction in Charlotte and between the three, we would typically have 300 to 400 people on site," he said. "We probably had 30 total."

Ravin reiterated that the lack of workers doesn't mean the workers are undocumented. "The sensation around Border Patrol and what they've been doing has put a fear into a lot of people who don't want to put themselves in a situation," Ravin said.

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Some locals are fighting back.

Agents' tires have been slashed in Charlotte, and they are being tracked by local activist groups.

"If this were [agents] coming in and they had a list of people they were specifically targeting, that they were going after, and that's all they were doing, that would be one thing," Terry Brown, North Carolina State House Democratic whip, told NewsNation.

"But we have seen is they are at shopping centers, Home Depot, they are at restaurants, in neighborhoods. And they are asking people, 'Do you have your papers? Do you speak English? Are you here illegally?' and I think that is a bridge too far."
The presence of Customs and Border Patrol agents in the Triangle on Tuesday created a ripple effect across the region, prompting families to keep children home from school and leading several businesses to close for the day out of caution.

"I think that more than anything else, they're afraid," said Anabel Rosa, a lawyer who volunteers with the nonprofit El Centro Hispano.

Videos shared online showed agents in Raleigh asking people, "Are you a US citizen? Are you a US citizen?" Rosa said operations like these reach far beyond the locations where agents are present.

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"People are staying home and they're unfortunately keeping their kids home, which is sad," she said.

Several businesses across the Triangle chose not to open on Wednesday. Some shops along Chatham Street in Cary were shuttered, and others in downtown Raleigh, like El Toro Loco Taqueria, posted online that they were closing for the safety of the Latino community.

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The restaurant's post stated that their staff wanted customers to "feel safe, supported and protected during this time."

Durham Public Schools reported several hundred more absences on Wednesday compared to last week.

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The Wake County Public School System has not released numbers yet, but families keeping their children home was the main topic discussed in public comment during Tuesday night's WCPSS board meeting.

"Families are keeping children home today, and likely the rest of this week, because they're afraid," one speaker said.

Another added, "fear-based absences reflect trauma, not neglect."

SEE ALSO | Lawmakers respond to federal enforcement actions in North Carolina

A third speaker emphasized the potential toll on learning: "fear destroys the conditions required for student achievement, focus, memory, emotional regulation, and a sense of safety."

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One mother whose daughter attends a language immersion program said the concern extends to educators as well.

"The teachers who pour love and stability into my child daily are living with fear and instability. They're here legally, yet they still worry about immigration rules shifting with the possibility of deportation. When teachers feel unsafe, our students feel it too," she said.

Even with the concerns from some, Rosa said she saw an outpouring of support from community members checking in with El Centro Hispano and offering help, everything from driving children to school to providing legal assistance.

"Most of the reaction from most everyone I've seen is that they are here in support of the community, that they see no difference between them and the immigrant community," she said. "That gives me hope more than anything else."

Though CBP agents are not expected to remain in the region, many who stayed home Tuesday said they plan to remain cautious for the rest of the week.
10 p.m. Update: Boston Police confirm that the missing teen out of East Boston has been located.

ORIGINAL STORY:

The Boston Police Department is asking for the publics help in locating missing 13-year-old.

The teen was last seen at 7 a.m. on November 17, on Trenton Street in East Boston, according to police.

Officials say she is from East Boston.

[The missing teen] was last seen wearing a black sweater and black pants. She is known to frequent Marion St in East Boston, Beverly Street in Everett and friends houses in Chelsea, Boston Police say.

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She is approximately 5;2 tall, weighs 80 lbs, and has long black hair, according to officials.

Anyone with any information is asked to call Boston Police at 617-343-4234.

If you wish to provide information anonymously, you can call the CrimeStoppers tip line at 1-800-494-TIPS, or you can text TIP to 27463.

EDITORS NOTE: Since the teen has been located, Boston 25 News has removed both her photo and name from the article.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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In mid-November 2025, social media posts spread online claiming Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, a Republican from Louisiana, donated all of his Congressional salary to charity.

Posts circulating on X, Facebook and Threads often used the same or similar language and contained other rumors about Johnson's finances and his family's alleged altruism, including supposed rent payments and shelter relief efforts. For example, text in the X post read:

Speaker Mike Johnson lives in a $3,000-a-month home. He donates his $224,000 salary to those in need, gave up a $250,000 bonus to help flood victims, and takes only a $10,000 annual allowance  the rest goes to veteran housing assistance. He's paid over $500,000 in rent for 70 homeless veterans, cut his office budget by $1 million, flies economy, and stays in budget hotels  then donates the $80,000 he saves to local food banks. His wife turned their garage into a free cancer therapy center, and on holidays, their family volunteers at shelters while their kids travel to disaster zones to help with relief efforts. But sure  tell me more about how conservative leadership doesn't truly look out for those in need.

Speaker Mike Johnson lives in a $3,000-a-month home. He donates his $224,000 salary to those in need, gave up a $250,000 bonus to help flood victims, and takes only a $10,000 annual allowance  the rest goes to veteran housing assistance.



Hes paid over $500,000 in rent for 70  Aunty Kitty (@wake_up_girl_3) November 11, 2025

Johnson has few to no assets, based on his financial disclosures. However, there was no evidence any of the gestures in these posts was true as of this writing, including the claim he donated his salary to charity. His office did not immediately return a request for more information about his financial portfolio. As such, we have not rated this claim.

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A review of Johnson's 2024 financial disclosure, filed Aug. 13, 2025, did not reveal a checking, savings or retirement account. In 2023, Vanity Fair reported that Johnson had not listed a bank account on his financial disclosure forms since at least 2016, which Snopes verified and which remained true as of this writing, adding to the confusion about his actual finances. Legally, lawmakers must report assets worth more than $1,000, including bank accounts.

"I'm a man of modest means, OK," Johnson said in a 2023 appearance on Fox News in response to a question about the Vanity Fair report. "I was a lawyer, but I did constitutional law. And most of my career has been in the nonprofit sector. We have four kids, five now that are very active. And I have kids in graduate school, law school, undergraduate. We have a lot of expenses."

Notably, Johnson did not say anything during that appearance about donating the bulk of his money to charity.

Below, we outline what we know about Johnson's finances:

No evidence post is accurate

Google searches for information on any donations Johnson has made returned no relevant results. Searches focused on specific claims about his purported donations to veterans, flood victims and food banks also found no reputable nor relevant results.

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It is worth noting that Johnson cannot legally receive a bonus for his work as a lawmaker, making the claim that he gave up a $250,000 bonus to help flood victims disreputable. There were also no reputable news reports stating he flies economy or stays in budget hotels, though such details might not have been reported on even if they were true.

The claim that Johnson cut his office's budget by $1 million was demonstrably false.

The fiscal year 2023 budget Congress passed on Dec. 29, 2022, showed the speaker of the House's office received about $10.5 million (see Page 460). Johnson became speaker in October 2023. The speaker of the House's budget for fiscal year 2024  passed on March 23, 2024  was exactly the same as the previous fiscal year (see Page 255). (As of this writing, Congress had not passed a fiscal year 2025 budget, instead passing what's called a continuing resolution, a stopgap bill for when lawmakers are unable to agree on a formal budget.)

Furthermore, no relevant search results came up for Johnson's wife's "free cancer therapy center," nor did any reputable news media outlets report that Johnson's "family volunteers at shelters while their kids travel to disaster zones to help with relief efforts."

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Johnson's wife, Kelly Johnson, founded a Christian counseling center, whose now-defunct website (archived) reportedly went offline after HuffPost reported its operating agreement compared homosexuality to bestiality and incest. As of this writing, she was also an adviser at the Louisiana Right to Life Foundation, an organization that advocates against abortion. It was not possible to find evidence that she did charity work focused on cancer treatment or homeless shelters.

The claim that Johnson pays $3,000 a month for rent was the only assertion backed by some traceable evidence. Per Johnson's 2024 financial disclosures, he owns a home, presumably in Louisiana, but many congress members own or rent places in both their home district and in the District of Columbia.

In April 2025, online news media website Semafor reported that Johnson rented a house from Republican Rep. Darrell Issa of California. Johnson apparently relocated there after investigative news outlet ProPublica reported in February 2025 that he was living in a house near Capitol Hill, with evangelical pastor Steve Berger, that was "owned by a major Republican donor."

Semafor reported it was "not clear how much Johnson's paying for rent." Several months later, the Campaign Legal Center filed a Federal Election Commission complaint alleging that Johnson's campaign committee sent five $2,500 monthly rent payments, using donors' funds, from March 2025 onwards, to a company Issa owned, totaling $12,500. Johnson reportedly insisted the payments were above board and were for a "campaign office space in Washington."

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It was unclear, as of this writing, whether that $2,500 amount represented the full extent of Johnson's alleged monthly rent payments.

Johnson's finances

Johnson did not report any assets or "unearned" income on his 2024 financial disclosure, the most recent as of this writing.

His disclosure did not include his $223,500 congressional salary, but lawmakers often do not bother including their congressional salary on their financial disclosures, since that is already public information. He also earned $29,890 in income from Liberty University for teaching online college courses, per his disclosure.

The document said his wife earned $3,569 from Answers in Genesis, a "Christianity-defending" nonprofit organization advocating against the scientific theory of evolution in favor of a Biblical interpretation of how the world formed. Onward Christian Education Services, the nonprofit subsidiary of her Christian counseling center, was also listed on the disclosure under "earned income" but the disclosure did not list a salary amount.

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Financial disclosure rules state that lawmakers must report the source, but not the amount, of income a spouse earns. Onward Christian Education Services' tax returns from fiscal year 2023  the most recently available via the Internal Revenue Service's search tool, as of this writing  stated that Kelly Johnson did not receive any compensation for her work as its CEO.

Mike Johnson's home mortgage was between $250,001 and $500,000 and he also had a home equity line of credit between $15,001 and $50,000.

Here's his 2024 financial disclosure in full:

https://media.snopes.com/2025/11/johnson_2024_financial_disclosure.pdf

Sources:

"18 U.S. Code  203 - Compensation to Members of Congress, Officers, and Others in Matters Affecting the Government." LII / Legal Information Institute, www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/text/18/203.

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"About the Reporting Requirements ." OpenSecrets, www.opensecrets.org/personal-finances/disclosure.

Answers in Genesis. "Kelly Johnson." Answers in Genesis, Answers In Genesis, answersingenesis.org/bios/kelly-johnson/?srsltid=AfmBOooE1Vq2-mswiJovIuX__1ow3JEsjdXoyhRMzRclwEYU6B-f9zf_. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"Appropriations Status Table: FY2023." Congress.gov, www.congress.gov/crs-appropriations-status-table/2023. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

"Appropriations Status Table: FY2024." Congress.gov, www.congress.gov/crs-appropriations-status-table/2024.

"Appropriations Status Table: FY2025." Congress.gov, www.congress.gov/crs-appropriations-status-table/2025. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

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Bendery, Jennifer. "Mike Johnson's Wife Runs Counseling Service That Compares Being Gay to Bestiality, Incest." HuffPost, 27 Oct. 2023, www.huffpost.com/entry/mike-johnson-wife-homosexuality-bestiality-incest_n_653abfb6e4b00110fef0462e. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"Board & Staff." Louisiana Right to Life, prolifelouisiana.org/board-staff/.

Brudnick, Ida. "Congressional Salaries and Allowances: In Brief." Congress.gov, 28 Aug. 2025, www.congress.gov/crs-product/RL30064.

"Campaign Legal Center Alleges Speaker Johnson Illegally Used Campaign Funds to Pay Rent." Campaign Legal Center, 6 Aug. 2025, campaignlegal.org/document/campaign-legal-center-alleges-speaker-johnson-illegally-used-campaign-funds-pay-rent.

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Deng, Rae. "9 Rumors We've Examined about Mike Johnson." Snopes, 1 Nov. 2025, www.snopes.com/collections/mike-johnson-collection/. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

Foley, Ryan. "Christian Counseling Website Run by Mike Johnson's Wife Taken down after HuffPost Report." Christianpost.com, The Christian Post, 3 Nov. 2023, www.christianpost.com/news/christian-website-run-by-mike-johnsons-wife-taken-offline.html. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"Form 990EZ: Onward Christian Education Services." Irs.gov, 2023, apps.irs.gov/pub/epostcard/cor/833270682_202312_990EZ_2024070222643709.pdf.

Goba, Kadia. "House Speaker Mike Johnson Rents House from Colleague." Semafor.com, 30 Apr. 2025, www.semafor.com/article/04/30/2025/house-speaker-mike-johnson-rents-house-from-colleague. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

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IRS. "Tax Exempt Organization Search." Apps.irs.gov, apps.irs.gov/app/eos/.

Johnson, Michael. FINANCIAL DISCLOSURE REPORT. 13 Aug. 2025, disclosures-clerk.house.gov/public_disc/financial-pdfs/2024/10071620.pdf. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

Kaplan, Joshua, et al. "Speaker Mike Johnson Is Living in a D.C. House That Is the Center of a Pastor's Secretive Influence Campaign." ProPublica, 28 Feb. 2025, www.propublica.org/article/mike-johnson-evangelical-pastor-steve-berger-roommates. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"'Kelly Johnson Cancer Therapy Center' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=kelly+johnson+cancer+therapy+center&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&ei=SsAbaZjKH9Sq0PEPsKvA6A0&ved=0ahUKEwiYl4SXu_qQAxVUFTQIHbAVEN0Q4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=kelly+johnson+cancer+therapy+center&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiI2tlbGx5IGpvaG5zb24gY2FuY2VyIHRoZXJhcHkgY2VudGVyMgUQIRigATIFECEYoAEyBRAhGKABSJw5UABY5DhwAngBkAEAmAGEAaABgxuqAQQzNS42uAEDyAEA-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&sclient=gws-wiz-serp. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

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"'Kelly Johnson Shelter Volunteer' - Google Search." Google Search, media.snopes.com/2025/11/file_name_kelly_johnson_shelter_volunteer_-_google_searchpdf.pdf. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

Levin, Bess. "What's up with Mike Johnson's Very Shady-Seeming Financial Disclosures?" Vanity Fair, 1 Nov. 2023, www.vanityfair.com/news/2023/11/mike-johnson-financial-disclosures. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"'Mike Johnson Budget Hotels' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+budget+hotels&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&ei=KcAbabKWEp2d0PEP86elmAo&ved=0ahUKEwjyzpiHu_qQAxWdDjQIHfNTCaMQ4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=mike+johnson+budget+hotels&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiGm1pa2Ugam9obnNvbiBidWRnZXQgaG90ZWxzSIwUUNQEWOcTcAF4AJABAJgBbqABmQ-qAQQyNC4xuAEDyAEA-AEBmAIUoALtDMICChAuGIAEGEMYigXCAhAQLhiABBixAxhDGIMBGIoFwgIKEAAYgAQYQxiKBcICCBAuGIAEGLEDwgIFEAAYgATCAhkQLhiABBhDGIoFGJcFGNwEGN4EGN8E2AEBwgINEC4YgAQYsQMYQxiKBcICCxAuGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIcEC4YgAQYsQMYQxiKBRiXBRjcBBjeBBjfBNgBAcICDRAAGIAEGLEDGEMYigXCAggQABiABBixA8ICERAAGIAEGJECGLEDGIMBGIoFwgILEAAYgAQYkQIYigXCAg4QABiABBixAxiDARiKBcICDhAuGIAEGJECGLEDGIoFwgIFEC4YgATCAgIQJsICBhAAGBYYHpgDAIgGAboGBggBEAEYFJIHBDE5LjGgB_mWA7IHBDE5LjG4B-0MwgcHMS45LjkuMcgHRQ&sclient=gws-wiz-serp. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"Mike Johnson Donations to Charity - Google Search." Google.com, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+donations+to+charity&oq=mike+johnson+donations+to+charity&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUqBggAEEUYOzIGCAAQRRg7MgYIARBFGDzSAQgyNjk0ajBqNKgCALACAQ&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

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"'Mike Johnson Donations to Flood Victims' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+donations+to+flood+victims&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&ei=yL8baeqRFOiz0PEPrK6DuA8&ved=0ahUKEwjqlfrYuvqQAxXoGTQIHSzXAPcQ4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=mike+johnson+donations+to+flood+victims&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiJ21pa2Ugam9obnNvbiBkb25hdGlvbnMgdG8gZmxvb2QgdmljdGltc0i3DVDYA1jtDHACeACQAQCYAV6gAfMHqgECMTK4AQPIAQD4AQGYAgCgAgCYAwCIBgGSBwCgB7QHsgcAuAcAwgcAyAcA&sclient=gws-wiz-serp. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"'Mike Johnson Donations to Food Banks' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+donations+to+food+banks&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&source=hp&ei=AMAbaZawMvfI0PEP3_nviQ8&iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaRvOEJgbcuruO5gg1qFD1n5SkXrVNj4z&ved=0ahUKEwiWsPLzuvqQAxV3JDQIHd_8O_EQ4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=mike+johnson+donations+to+food+banks&gs_lp=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&sclient=gws-wiz. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

"Mike Johnson Donations to Veterans - Google Search." Google.com, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+donations+to+veterans&oq=mike+johnson+donations+to+veterans&gs_lcrp=EgZjaHJvbWUyBggAEEUYOdIBCDMyMzdqMGo0qAIAsAIA&sourceid=chrome&ie=UTF-8. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.

"'Mike Johnson Files Economy' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+flies+economy&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&ei=BcAbaaDeBN6Cm9cP-PC90Aw&ved=0ahUKEwjg9PX1uvqQAxVeweYEHXh4D8oQ4dUDCBE&uact=5&oq=mike+johnson+flies+economy&gs_lp=Egxnd3Mtd2l6LXNlcnAiGm1pa2Ugam9obnNvbiBmbGllcyBlY29ub215SIYiULwEWNogcAF4AZABAZgBoQGgAeQUqgEEMzQuMrgBA8gBAPgBAZgCDqACoAfCAgoQABiwAxjWBBhHwgIGEAAYFhgewgILEAAYgAQYkQIYigXCAgUQABjvBcICCBAAGKIEGIkFwgIFEAAYgATCAggQABiABBiiBMICCxAAGIAEGLEDGIMBwgIIEAAYgAQYxwPCAgUQLhiABMICDhAuGIAEGJECGLEDGIoFwgIIEAAYgAQYsQPCAg4QABiABBixAxiDARiKBZgDAIgGAZAGBJIHAjE0oAehSrIHAjEzuAebB8IHBTAuNy43yAcu&sclient=gws-wiz-serp. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

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"'Mike Johnson Kids Volunteer Disaster Zones' - Google Search." Google Search, www.google.com/search?q=mike+johnson+kids+volunteer+disaster+zones&sca_esv=1bab67044c4ee1f2&source=hp&ei=rsAbacWcELCh0PEP0aSm-A0&iflsig=AOw8s4IAAAAAaRvOvqo2GAACjVEnPiiSlCPedp6orCow&ved=0ahUKEwjFq8zGu_qQAxWwEDQIHVGSCd8Q4dUDCBA&uact=5&oq=mike+johnson+kids+volunteer+disaster+zones&gs_lp=Egdnd3Mtd2l6IiptaWtlIGpvaG5zb24ga2lkcyB2b2x1bnRlZXIgZGlzYXN0ZXIgem9uZXNI0rABUABY6K8BcAF4AJABAJgBdqABnB-qAQQ0OC4zuAEDyAEA-AEBmAIToALzDMICFBAuGIAEGJECGMcBGIoFGI4FGK8BwgILEAAYgAQYkQIYigXCAgoQLhiABBhDGIoFwgIIEC4YgAQYsQPCAgoQABiABBhDGIoFwgIFEAAYgATCAgsQABiABBixAxiDAcICDhAAGIAEGJECGLEDGIoFwgIQEC4YgAQYQxjHARiKBRivAcICDRAuGIAEGLEDGEMYigXCAhEQLhiABBiRAhjHARiKBRivAcICCxAuGIAEGLEDGIMBwgINEAAYgAQYsQMYQxiKBcICCBAAGIAEGLEDwgIOEAAYgAQYsQMYgwEYigXCAgYQABgWGB7CAggQABgWGAoYHsICCBAAGIAEGKIEmAMAkgcEMTYuM6AHvLwBsgcEMTYuM7gH8wzCBwYwLjExLjjIBzM&sclient=gws-wiz. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

Staff. "'Fox News Sunday' on November 5, 2023." Fox News, 5 Nov. 2023, www.foxnews.com/transcript/fox-news-sunday-november-5-2023. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

Suozzo, Andrea. "Onward Christian Education Services, Fiscal Year Ending Dec. 2023." ProPublica, projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/833270682. Accessed 18 Nov. 2025.
A federal investigation is underway into the death of 18-year-old Anna Kepner, a Titusville high-school senior and varsity cheerleader, whose body was found aboard the Carnival Horizon after a Caribbean cruise.

Court filings obtained by Channel 9 reveal that the FBI is investigating what occurred and that one of her minor stepsiblings may face criminal charges.

The cruise departed from Miami and visited Caribbean destinations before returning to port. According to the family, Anna had recently completed entrance testing to join the U.S. military and was described as a straight-A student. The motion filed in Brevard County family court states: Currently, there is an investigation being conducted by the FBI arising out of the sudden death of eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner.

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In that filing, Annas stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, who was on the cruise with Anna, her father, and the children, requested that a custody hearing be postponed, citing that a criminal case may be initiated against one of the minor children.

No official cause or manner of death has been released by the medical examiner. The FBI, which is leading the investigation due to the death occurring in maritime jurisdiction, has not confirmed whether a homicide investigation is underway or whether charges will be filed.

The newly obtained court documents confirm that the FBI is formally involved in the case and that the legal action concerns a delay in family court proceedings due to the criminal investigations potential impact. And while no charges have been filed publicly, the motion explicitly states the possibility of charges against a minor sibling. She has not identified herself as a target of a criminal investigation. She basically said shes afraid that anything she said could be used against her children, said Adam Pollack, a defense attorney who reviewed the case. I think Miss Hudson has now propelled her children into the news spotlight needlessly. The FBI was not broadcasting that they were conducting a criminal investigation of the children.

Whats Next

Authorities and the cruise line, Carnival Cruise Line, say they are cooperating fully with the investigation. The local community in Titusville is mourning and awaiting updates. As this investigation is active and the motion suggests possible criminal proceedings, more details are expected from federal and local law enforcement agencies.

SEE THE MOTION BELOW:

Brev Anna Kepner Emer Motion by WFTV Digital Team

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
A British woman is among five people who died in a snowstorm in Patagonia in Chile.

Victoria Bond, 40, a public relations consultant from Cornwall, was named by authorities in Chile as among those killed in the tourist hotspot of Torres del Paine National Park, in the south of the country.

Along with Ms Bond, two German and two Mexican citizens died in the snowstorm, according to Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate of the Magallanes region of southern Chile. Their bodies were found on Tuesday.

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Visit Isles of Scilly chairman Andrew Sells said the organisation, which Ms Bond worked for, was "utterly devastated" by her death.

Visit Isles of Scilly said Ms Bond had headed up its public relations for more than six years and was on a "trip of lifetime" with friends in Argentina and Chile.

She was out hiking when she became trapped in the storm, the organisation said.

Mr Sells said she had "worked tirelessly" in her role to promote the islands, 28 miles off the Cornish coast, and was an "integral part" of the team.

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He said: "She was always a joy to work with, and I cannot praise her work too highly. She is an enormous loss to the community."

Euan Rodger, executive vice-chairman of Visit Isles of Scilly, said the organisation was "heartbroken".

"She brought life, energy, and an infectious enthusiasm to every project, making her a true joy to work alongside," he said.

'Leaves a huge hole'

Adrian Jones, who worked with Ms Bond promoting the Roseland Festival in Cornwall, paid tribute to her as "lovable, witty and creative".

"She was a doer... she had ideas and she saw them through," he said.

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"She will leave a huge hole in Portscatho... she lived in Newquay but she spent a lot of the time in Portscatho."

He described her as adventurous.

"Unbelievably sad as it may seem, she was doing what she lived life for," he said.

'Intense' snowfall

Chilean officials said the search for victims had ended and the focus was now on repatriating the bodies and liaising with foreign consulates.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric Font paid tribute to search and rescue teams who worked in "intense" snowfall and winds reaching speeds of up to 118mph (190km/h).

He said in a post on X: "To the families, friends, and loved ones of the five individuals of Mexican, German, and British nationalities who tragically lost their lives in the incident that occurred in Torres del Paine, I extend my deepest condolences.

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"Know that you have the full support and collaboration of Chilean authorities and institutions during these difficult times."

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: "We are supporting the family of a British woman who has died following an incident in Chile and are in contact with the local authorities."

Follow BBC Cornwall on X, Facebook and Instagram. Send your story ideas to spotlight@bbc.co.uk.

Related internet links
Recently, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops shared a bold statement about immigration in the US.

The caption of a TikTok video featuring the bishops reads: "For the first time in 12 years the US bishops issued a Special Message addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the US."

Here's what they said:

Related: After Trump Called His Former Supporters "Weaklings," Seth Meyers Held Karoline Leavitt's Feet To The Fire In This Comedy Bit

"As pastors, we, the bishops of the United States, are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in our Lord, Jesus Christ. We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement."

"We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care."

Related: AOC Made A Shocking Claim About Why She Thinks Marjorie Taylor Greene Is Splintering From MAGA  "Here's Some Tea For You"

"We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools."

"We are grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school, or when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones."

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Related: Karoline Leavitts Unbelievable New Claim About Trump Has Already Backfired, And The Internet Is Having A Field Day With It

"Despite obstacles and prejudices, generations of immigrants have made enormous contributions to the well-being of our nation. We, as Catholic bishops, love our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason, we feel compelled now in this environment to raise our voices in defense of God given human dignity."

The Bishops' video has reached over 1.4 million viewers, many of whom are self-identified Catholics who expressed pride in their words.

If anyone tried dismissing the message, the internet had these responses:

Related: Mike Johnson Just Got Completely Destroyed By A Furious GOP Voter About The Government Shutdown On Live TV, And The Video Is Brutal

And many are begging for the video to be played on Fox News:

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What are your thoughts on the statement? Let us know in the comments.

Also in In the News: Trump Accidentally Burned Himself With His Own Question, And People Cannot Stop Laughing

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Also in In the News: "What The F**k?": Jon Stewart Was Stunned By These 2 Words Trump Let Slip When Denying Visiting Jeffrey Epstein's Island

Read it on BuzzFeed.com
Booths stand ready for early city-school election voters in May 2025 at the Pennington County Administration Building in Rapid City. (Seth Tupper/South Dakota Searchlight)

South Dakotas top election official floated potential legislation Tuesday that would allow prospective candidates to pay their way onto the ballot.

Some members of the state Board of Elections responded during their meeting in Pierre by saying they oppose the idea, but the board took no formal action.

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Ill be honest, Im a hard no on this one, said board member Austin Hoffman, whos also a Republican candidate for state attorney general.

The proposal came from the office of Republican Secretary of State Monae Johnson. Deputy Secretary of State Thomas Deadrick walked the board through a slate of 17 concepts for legislation that could be introduced during the annual legislative session that starts in January.

Deadrick said some other states, including Kansas, already allow people to pay to get on a ballot. A spokesperson with the Kansas Secretary of States Office confirmed to South Dakota Searchlight that while independents in that state collect petition signatures to earn a ballot spot, members of a political party can pay a filing fee to get on the ballot.

The South Dakota proposal would give all candidates two options for qualifying: collecting the required number of petition signatures from registered voters, as they do now, or paying a fee to have their name printed on the ballot. Under the draft, any fees collected would go into the states general fund. Deadrick did not specify how much candidates would be required to pay.

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We certainly thought it was time to bring it up here and discuss it, and say, What do you think of that scenario? Deadrick told the board.

Deadrick added that the fee option could be helpful when candidates drop out of a race at the last minute, and theres little time to gather petition signatures before the replacement candidate deadline.

Hoffman was not swayed.

Regardless of the reality of it, the optics of it are you are giving a pay-to-play pathway to being a politician, he said. To me, going out and talking to the public, and listening to the people, and getting those signatures is one of the most important parts of that process.

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Multiple other board members echoed the sentiment.

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Another proposal would replace South Dakotas petition signature formulas for candidates with new thresholds tied to the number of registered voters for partisan, independent and new-party candidates. Currently, candidates for some offices get on the ballot by turning in petition signatures from registered voters equal to a small percentage of the votes cast for governor in the last general election, with specific percentages varying by office and party status.

Hoffman ran the numbers and provided an example when the new formula would require fewer signatures for somebody running as a Republican and more signatures for somebody running as a Democrat.

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I just dont see that as being fair, Hoffman said. Other members agreed.

Deadrick acknowledged the point. He said the idea stems from the difficulty candidates have in identifying the required signature number for their jurisdiction  such as a legislative district, which often includes parts of multiple counties  under the states current formula.

Other bill ideas include allowing people to challenge a voters registration on the grounds that the voter is not a U.S. citizen, and letting the secretary of state use a federal verification system to confirm the citizenship status of people who apply to register to vote in South Dakota.

Another idea would require anyone signing any type of petition to list their voter registration address, which would have to substantially match the address on file for the signature to count.

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Deadrick said the office would send board members more polished versions of the bill proposals in the near future for feedback, before final consideration.

11-18-25BOEBillListUPDATED

A list of bill ideas proposed by the South Dakota Secretary of States Office to the state Board of Elections.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  An El Paso car dealership owner and two employees have been arrested in connection with vehicles being transferred under false or misleading circumstances, according to the El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collectors Office.

Mario Uribe

Perry Wolfe

Regina Ozaeta

Investigators have arrested Perry Wolfe, the owner of Car Capitol, a used car

dealership based in El Paso, along with Car Capitol employees Regina Ozaeta and Mario

Uribe, the tax office said.

According to the Tax Assessor-Collectors Office, Wolfe, Ozaeta and Uribe were taken

into custody following an investigation into alleged irregularities in vehicle sales and title

transfers at the dealership. Officials stated there was evidence in which

vehicles were transferred under false or misleading pretenses.

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Wolfe has been charged with fraudulent transfer of a motor vehicle, while Ozaeta and

Uribe have been charged with tampering with government records, all felonies under

Texas law.

The case remains under investigation and additional charges may be pending.

Authorities have not yet released details on the total number of vehicles or customers

affected.

Car Capitol, located at 6354 N. Mesa, has been operating in the El Paso area for several

years, the tax office said.

The dealerships status and future operations are currently unclear.



El Paso County law enforcement officials are urging any individuals who feel that they

may have been affected or a victim, to contact the El Paso County Tax Assessor-Collectors Office, Enforcement Division at (915) 273-3430.

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Ruben Gonzalez, the tax assessor-collector for El Paso County, said: The Office of

the County Tax Assessor-Collector takes these types of offenses seriously. We will do

our best to protect our citizens from these types of fraudulent title transfer transactions.





Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Control of Congress  and the fate of President Donald Trumps second-term agenda  could come down to a single, urgent decision that landed this week at the Supreme Courts doorstep.

A lower court ruling striking down Texas new congressional map abruptly thrust the justices into a battle they appeared to be trying to avoid: effectively deciding whether to give the midterm boost to Republicans or Democrats. And the decision goes beyond control of the speakers gavel. If Democrats retake the House, Trump will spend his final two years in office under a hail of subpoenas and with little leverage to pursue his policy imperatives.

Compounding the stakes for the justices ruling is a fast-approaching filing deadline. Texas candidates must declare their bids for Congress by Dec. 8, and already several who were eyeing the newly drawn map have started campaigning.

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While the justices have been wrangling with thorny election-related legal issues for years  including another major redistricting case the court delayed in October  many analysts suspected the court would steer clear of cases seen as tilting the landscape in one partys favor in next falls elections.

That lay low option seemed to evaporate Tuesday when a divided panel of federal judges in Texas ruled that the map the states GOP-controlled legislature adopted in August at Trumps urging was likely racially gerrymandered and thus unconstitutional. The panel ruled that the map, which made five districts in the state more favorable to Republicans, cannot be used next year and reverted to congressional boundaries drawn in 2021. Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott raced to the Supreme Court hours after the ruling.

Of course, a high court ruling restoring the new Texas map is not guaranteed to be decisive for the GOP next November. Presidents typically see their party lose ground in the midterms after their election, and Democrats dominated in off-year elections earlier this month. Democrats could manage to take the House by performing strongly outside Texas or by snatching some of the handful of seats the GOP is trying to shore up in the state. In the 2018 midterms during Trumps first term, for example, Democrats won more than two dozen House seats to reclaim control of the chamber.

Trump may bear ultimate responsibility for pulling the justices into the fight. Once Trump urged red states to pursue mid-decade redistricting  with just weeks to spare before filing deadlines across the country  the move was certain to reach the high court. Unlike other cases that work their way through circuit courts, appeals in redistricting cases immediately shoot up to the Supreme Court.

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I think it was inevitable when Trump started the redistricting, University of California at Los Angeles law professor Rick Hasen said. The structure is that it's very hard for the Supreme Court to stay out.

In addition to the litigation in Texas, challenges are also pending to GOP-led redistricting in Missouri and North Carolina and to Democratic-led redistricting in California. Any or all of those could quickly reach the high court.

There's just so many of these cases that could come up for this kind of redistricting that the court's going to have to give some indication because of this unusual churn, Hasen said. Theyre all coming, like an army of zombies.

The justices will have to get involved in some way, said Capital University law professor Brad Smith, a Federal Election Commission chair under President George W. Bush. The minimalist way would be to let this decision stand, let it go through channels, but even that  who knows how long that will take  will get them a lot of opprobrium.

A message for the justices

The judges who struck down the Texas map appeared to be bracing for the high court to review their work. The 160-page majority opinion written by Trump appointee Jeffrey Brown opened with a famous quote from Chief Justice John Roberts: The way to stop discrimination on the basis of race is to stop discriminating on the basis of race.

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Brown said Roberts precept required the invalidation of Texas new maps because they were prompted by a Trump Justice Department letter that urged the state to redraw four districts with race in mind. Brown pointed to what DOJ officials said were racial criteria previously used to allow a coalition of distinct minority groups to have a strong chance to elect a candidate of their choice.

Texas emergency appeal is sure to challenge that conclusion. Indeed, Abbott already declared Tuesday that the redistricting effort had nothing to do with race. But another consideration could be even more consequential for the justices: whether they conclude that the lower courts action contravenes a longstanding principle that federal courts shouldnt disturb election rules as the process gets underway.

A test for the Purcell Principle

Browns ruling contains a long section addressing the so-called Purcell Principle, a reference to the high courts holding in a 2006 emergency-docket dispute that courts should butt out of voting-related cases as an election nears. Brown spends a substantial portion of his opinion suggesting the Supreme Court has given inconsistent guidance about precisely when its too late for courts to issue election-altering decisions.

In one case last year, Brown said, the justices made a naked citation to Purcell without any accompanying reasoning or analysis. And in a 2022 case blocking a redistricting order, he noted, the Supreme Court did not cite to a single case to support its stay  not even to Purcell.

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The Supreme Court has stayed a lower federal courts election-related injunctions at least six times in the last 11 years. This Court is not naive to that reality, Brown wrote. But this Court is also not naive to the likely unconstitutional realities of the 2025 Map.

One question the justices may have to confront is whether Texass unusual midterm redistricting and the rapid process the state undertook to change the district boundaries is entitled to the same deference courts have shown to more routine redistricting or to map-drawing efforts initiated because a court threw out an earlier map.

Its kind of an emergency of the states own making, Hasen said of this years redistricting move in Texas. He also said it highlights how the Purcell Principle can encourage states to rejigger their rules on the eve of an election, then claim its too late to revisit them.

What if a state passes a really suppressive law right before the election? Whites only can vote, Hasen said. The court is really going to say, Sorry, it's too close to the election?  I don't think so.

Another major redistricting fight awaits a ruling

In another potential complication for the justices, the court is currently preparing a ruling in major voting rights cases theyve been wrestling with since last term involving Louisianas congressional maps. The cases were initially argued last March, but the justices announced in June that they would schedule it for re-argument in the fall.

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That delay made it less likely that the courts ruling would impact the congressional map in Louisiana or any other state for 2026. It also took place over the public objection of Justice Clarence Thomas, who suggested his colleagues were stalling.

Congress requires this Court to exercise jurisdiction over constitutional challenges to congressional redistricting, and we accordingly have an obligation to resolve such challenges promptly, the George H.W. Bush appointee wrote. I thus see no reason to avoid deciding these cases now.

Over the summer, the justices broadened the legal issues in the Louisiana cases, giving them the potential to undermine the legality of districts that states create to meet the requirements of the Voting Rights Act. At the re-argument session last month, the justices seemed dubious about aspects of Louisianas process, but it was unclear how far the high court might go in cutting back the impact of the Voting Rights Act.

Its not known when the justices will rule in the Louisiana cases, but they appeared splintered at the October arguments, making it seem unlikely they will issue a decision in time to affect the congressional election season about to get underway.
As many European cities continue to welcome record numbers of travelers from the U.S., airlines are seeing increased demand for direct service to cities that would have previously only been accessible to transatlantic travelers by transfer.

Over the summer, Delta Air Lines announced a new route to Francisco Sa Carneiro Airport in Porto that will start running in May 2026, while American Airlines is also adding new cities such as Budapest and Prague to its network for next summer from several U.S. cities.

After launching new routes to Edinburgh and Madrid earlier this year, JetBlue Airways is leaning even further into its service out of Beantown, with two flights to Barcelona and Milan that launch in spring 2026.

Customers "gain access to two of Europe's most iconic cities," JetBlue says

The new flight to Josep Tarradellas BarcelonaEl Prat Airport (BCN) is set to launch on April 16, and the flight to Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) will follow a month later on May 11.

Both seasonal routes will be retired in October after the summer travel season and will bring JetBlue's total number of European destinations to eight (the airline first launched its transatlantic service in 2021 with a flight to London).

Related: Airline launching 12 new flights to European destinations

"With the addition of Barcelona and Milan to JetBlue's map, customers from across JetBlues network gain access to two of Europe's most iconic cities: Barcelona, known for its art, architecture, and Mediterranean charm; and Milan, celebrated as Northern Italy's fashion and design capital and gateway to Lake Como," the airline writes of its choice of cities.

"Together, these destinations offer vibrant culture, world-class cuisine, and the stunning landscapes of the Mediterranean and the Alps."

JetBlue CEO Joanna Geraghty said in a statement that the airline is "proud to continue delivering incredible value and style on both sides of the Atlantic."

JetBlue also launched new flights to Edinburgh and Madrid earlier in 2025.Shutterstock

New JetBlue flights to Barcelona, Milan: ticket prices and other things to know

Early tickets will go on sale on November 20, and pricing on these two routes will become available then. Both flights will run on an Airbus A321 plane featuring 24 Mint seats with lie-flat beds and 114 regular economy seats.

Both flights will also run daily until service is retired in October, while European routes that run year-round include London (LHR) and Paris Charles De Gaulle (CDG) from JFK, as well as another CDG flight from Boston.

More on travel:
China is again blocking imports of seafood from Japan over recent comments made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan, according to media reports on Wednesday.

Beijing has informed Tokyo of the ban, Japanese media outlets said, citing government sources.

China's Foreign Ministry justified the move by saying that Japan had failed to provide promised documentation for the exports and that Takaichi's remarks had caused fury among the Chinese people.

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Even if Japanese seafood were to be exported to China, there would be no market for it under these circumstances, said ministry spokeswoman Mao Ning.

Beijing only lifted most of an earlier seafood import ban in June, imposed in August 2023 after Japan began discharging cooling water from the Fukushima nuclear reactor, damaged in 2011, into the sea.

China was previously the most important market for Japanese seafood exports.

The import ban comes amid an almost two-week long dispute between Beijing and Tokyo over Takaichi's remarks.

On November 7, the prime minister said in parliament that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would pose an "existential threat" that could prompt Japan to exercise its right to self-defence.

The China-critical politician thereby hinted at how Japan might respond if China were to use military means to annex Taiwan, which it considers part of its territory.
NEW YORK (AP)  A Chinese drug trafficking suspect who escaped custody in Mexico only to be recaptured in Cuba has been turned over to the U.S. to face charges he trafficked large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl into the country.

Zhi Dong Zhang, also known as Brother Wang" among other aliases, pleaded not guilty to the charges at his arraignment Wednesday in Brooklyn federal court. His lawyer declined to comment following the court appearance.

Federal officials say Zhang ran a vast drug trafficking and money laundering operation that imported thousands of kilograms (pounds) of narcotics into the United States and other countries.

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The defendant stands accused of running a global enterprise that pumped massive quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine into our communities and laundered millions in narcotics proceeds, U.S. Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche said in a statement. His return to the United States is a major step in dismantling a network that has fueled addiction, violence, and death."

Zhang's criminal organization operated out of Mexico going back at least to 2016 and laundered its drug proceeds through shell companies created in the U.S. using false social security numbers and other fraudulent documents, according to federal prosecutors.

Officials identified more than 100 shell companies tied to Zhangs organization that were used to launder at least $77 million in narcotics proceeds, they said.

Mexican authorities captured Zhang in Mexico City in October 2024 at the request of the U.S. government, but a judge granted him house arrest and he escaped the home where he was being held under military guard. Prosecutors say in court filings that he was eventually recaptured in Cuba and sent to the U.S. by Mexican authorities on Oct. 23.

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Zhang, who has been detained until his next court date in January, also faces a related set of federal charges in Georgia.

Government documents filed in that case describe a cocaine and fentanyl trafficking network with hubs in the Atlanta and Los Angeles metro areas. Millions of dollars from the drug sales were allegedly collected at stash houses in Georgia and California and deposited into accounts that Zhang could then access from Mexico, the documents said.
When MPs, members of the House of Lords and their staff were warned about the threat from Chinese spies, in one office in Westminster, a quick check began.

Simon Whelband is a Conservative councillor and also works for the Conservative MP Neil O'Brien, who was sanctioned by China in 2021.

Simon went into his LinkedIn messages and there it was. A message from an account in the name of Shirly Shen sent some weeks earlier.

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He hadn't responded to the unsolicited message and reported it to Parliament's security services. He was then advised to block the account.

The note comes across as pretty innocuous.

He said: "The message wasn't written in very good English, it was a message to say there was a job opportunity and was I interested, and to get in touch if I was.

"I've worked around Parliament for about 10 years now so I'm kind of used to this.

"But if you were more junior, you don't know what you're looking for.

"You might think it's a genuine offer that's made to you on LinkedIn, they might accept."

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Whelband added that he thought it was becoming more common for those working in Parliament to be targeted by China.

"They have realised the way to get to Parliamentarians is through their staff... it's deeply worrying," he said.

And so, for the second time this autumn, Westminster is collectively wrestling with what to do about China.

The growing influence of this vast superpower is one of the two stand out global changes of the last 30 years, alongside the growth of the internet.

Some of the most acute challenges - or threats - from Beijing come when both of these mega-trends of the early 21st Century combine.

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Senior figures in government are worried, but express their worry carefully in public. MPs outside of government are much more willing to be blunt.

Tuesday's debate in the Commons on this was an eye opener. The security minister Dan Jarvis was both circumspect in his language, but warm and accepting of the wide range of concerns expressed by MPs of multiple parties.

Among them:

Concern that buses manufactured in China but driving on British streets might be equipped with a so-called "kill switch" which allows someone in China to press a button and disable the bus  potentially causing chaos

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Worries about vehicles used by the military that are made in China and might be mobile listening devices  to such an extent that military figures have been warned to watch what they are saying when they are on board in case China is listening

Deep concern about China seeking planning permission for a huge new embassy in central London which critics say will be a spying centre and is located very close to sensitive data cables that serve the City of London

Last month, Parliament was digesting the collapse of a court case involving two men accused of spying for China, one of whom had worked in Westminster. Both men always denied any wrongdoing.

Now it is the warning that all MPs and members of the House of Lords have received from the security service MI5 that they might be Beijing's next target.

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It says it has identified two LinkedIn profiles used by Chinese security services to act as "civilian recruitment headhunters", targeting individuals working in British politics to solicit "insider insights".

As Jarvis put it, China "has a low threshold for information it regards as valuable". This is because over time it builds up a wider picture by piecing together the morsels it may extract from a wide range of people.

Labour, since they won the general election, have attempted to warm up the UK's relationship with China.

The Chancellor Rachel Reeves has been to Beijing, as has the Business Secretary Peter Kyle, who was there in September within days of being appointed to the role. The most senior civil servant in the Foreign Office, Sir Olly Robbins, was there last month in the midst of all those headlines about the collapsed spying trial.

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But there has long been a vociferous collection of China hawks in Parliament, who have long worried about what they see as a collective naivety about Beijing.

The question now is whether a moment like this, following MI5's intervention, persuades others to share their outlook.

The government insists its approach to China is "pragmatic": it regards working with Beijing as inevitable but insists it is "clear eyed" about the risks.

Will a growing number of MPs demand a more sceptical outlook?

As one put it, rather colourfully, "you can't reason with a tiger when your head is in its mouth".

China is a vast superpower that is at once essential yet awkward, unavoidable yet dangerous.

This the latest case study in those competing interests. There will be more to come.
Soon after a Tampa Bay Timesstory chronicled the death of Audrey Petersen  a Clearwater woman stalked and killed by her ex after filing multiple police reports last year  Clearwater police Chief Eric Gandy found himself in the office of a domestic violence resource center, asking for help.

That conversation marked the beginning of a partnership between the department and CASA Pinellas, the countys largest service provider for domestic violence.

All 263 Clearwater patrol officers have since gotten specialized training, Gandy said. And CASA legal experts now work from the departments headquarters several days a week to help guide victims and educate officers.

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We reviewed our policies and protocols, and while they met minimum standards, they were insufficient, said Gandy, speaking at a candlelight vigil in late October. What we found is that we needed a partner.

Petersens murder last February provided a devastating example of how victims can slip through the cracks of Floridas public safety system, even as theyre seeking help. The Times found thatstate-mandated trainingis so limited that it often leaves police ill-prepared to help victims. Thats especially true for instances of non-physical violence, like stalking. In Petersens case, there were no reports of physical violence prior to her death, but there were quiet warning signs.

The Petersen casealso showed how protocols that steer victims toward court to seek protection can put them in greater danger. In Florida, police are required to tell domestic violence victims they can apply for an injunction  a restraining order that gives officers clearer authority to make an arrest when its violated. But the Times found thatgetting one can be difficult, and the process can set off abusers, as was the case for Petersen.

Thats why its so important for police to connect victims with experts who can counsel them through dangerous waters.

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That will be easier now.

This summer, Gandy sent his detectives and special victims unit personnel to St. Petersburg to receive hands-on training from CASAs team. They got lessons on spotting warning signs for murder and navigating the injunction process. They learned about statutory protections for officers who make arrests in good faith and how to use a newly mandated state program for assessing risks to victims.From all that, the detectives designed two more trainings, then shared them with the rest of the department in July and August.

We needed to establish a better relationship with our subject matter experts, which arent cops, Gandy said. I think they opened our eyes to a whole other level of training that we could provide.

The officers and CASA team talked about how police could spread the word about resources for victims, said CASA Pinellas CEO Lariana Forsythe.

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It gave us an opportunity to really brainstorm how we could make it easier for survivors to access our attorneys, Forsythe said, noting the distance between Clearwater and St. Petersburg as a prior barrier. We decided it would be great to have those attorneys physically operate out of the Clearwater Police Department, which has turned out to be very beneficial.

CASA Pinellas has worked with agencies across the county, Forsythe said, and she always welcomes it when police reach out.

The organization is hoping to expand to the northern part of Pinellas County, she said. That would augment the work of The Haven at Hope Villages of America, a domestic violence resource center serving Clearwater.

After Petersens murder, Gandy said his department conducted an internal review.

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We did a deep dive into this because I had two officers that were devastated that they couldnt help her, said Gandy, referring to those who interacted with Petersen in the week before her death. He noted that they were texting her on off-hours, which he praised as extremely uncommon.

In July 2024, five months after Petersens death, the department updated its domestic violence policy handbook to improve clarity for officers, Gandy said, and to streamline certain protocols. He was still on a quest to find more improvements when he read the Times reporting.

It allowed me to investigate avenues I might not have otherwise, Gandy said. I may not have known to investigate otherwise.

Gandy said the complexity of domestic violence situations can be missed by young officers who are trained to evaluate evidence before them and then make an arrest if theres probable cause. Interpersonal crimes, hes learned, often exist in a grayer territory. He said arrests alone wont end domestic violence. Thats why hes committed to continuing to invest in partnerships with service providers who can support victims beyond the departments involvement.

Its easy, if something goes well, to pat yourselves on the back and say, Good job, but even if something goes well, you have to evaluate to see what you can do better, Gandy said. And particularly when something goes horribly wrong, you have an obligation to see what you can do better.
When Hurricane Melissa tore through the Caribbean in October 2025, it left a trail of destruction. The Category 5 storm damaged buildings in Jamaica, Haiti and Cuba, snapped power lines and cut off entire neighborhoods from hospitals and aid.

Jamaicas regional tourism, fishing and agriculture industries  still recovering from Hurricane Beryl a year earlier  were crippled.

Melissas damage has been estimated at US$6 billion to $7 billion in Jamaica alone, about 30% of the island nations gross domestic product. While the country has a disaster risk plan designed to help it quickly raise several hundred million dollars, the damage from Melissa far exceeds that amount.

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Whether Caribbean nations can recover from Melissas destruction and adapt to future climate change risks without taking on debilitating debt will depend in part on a big global promise: climate finance.

Developed countries that grew wealthy from burning fossil fuels, the leading driver of climate change, have pledged billions of dollars a year to help ecologically vulnerable nations like Jamaica, Cuba and the Philippines, recently hit by a typhoon, adapt to rising seas and stronger storms and rebuild after disasters worsened by climate change.

In 2024, they committed to boost climate finance from $100 billion a year to at least $300 billion a year by 2035, and to work toward $1.3 trillion annually from a wide spectrum of public and private sources.

But if the world is pouring billions into climate finance, why are developing countries still struggling with recovery costs?

Hurricane Melissa killed more than 90 people across the Caribbean in October 2025 and caused billions of dollars in damage, including in Cuba. Yamil Lage/AFP via Getty Images

I study the dynamics of global environmental and climate politics, including the United Nations climate negotiations, and my lab has been following the climate money.

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Governments at the U.N. climate conference in Brazil have been negotiating a plan to get closer to $1.3 trillion by 2035 and make it easier for developing countries to access funds. But the worlds climate finance so far has rested on a shaky foundation of fuzzy accounting, one where funding for airports, hotels and even ice cream stores is being counted as climate finance.

Cooking the climate finance books

Wealthy nations first promised in 2009 to raise $100 billion a year in climate finance for developing countries by 2020. Whether they hit that target in 2022, as claimed, is up for debate.

Researchers have found many cases where the reported numbers were inflated, largely due to relabeling of general aid that was already being provided and calling it climate aid.

The United Kingdom, for example, claims it is on track to meet its 11.6 billion (about $15.2 billion) pledge, but it is doing so in part by reclassifying existing humanitarian and development aid as climate finance.

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This practice undermines the principle of additionality  the idea that climate finance should represent new and additional resources beyond traditional aid, and not simply be a new label on funds already planned for other purposes.

An analysis by the climate news site Carbon Brief suggests that to truly meet its target, the U.K. would need to provide 78% more than it currently does.

The U.K.s creative accounting is not a one-off.

The Center for Global Development estimates that at least one-third of the new public climate funds in 2022 actually came from existing aid budgets. In some cases, the money had been shifted to climate adaptation projects, but often development projects were relabeled as climate finance.

Whats counted as climate finance comes from a mix of sources and is predominantly provided through loans and grants. Some funding is bilateral, flowing directly from one country to another. Some is multilateral and distributed through organizations such as the World Bank or the Green Climate Fund that are funded by the worlds governments. Money from private investors and corporations can also count in this growing but fragmented system.

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Countries providing the assistance have been able to stretch the definition of climate finance so they can count almost any project, including some that have little to do with reducing emissions or helping communities adapt.

Fossil fuels, hotels and ice cream stores

When it comes to climate finance, the devil is in the project details.

Take Japan, for example. In 2020, its state-backed Japan Bank for International Cooperation used an environmental fund to finance a 1,200-megawatt coal plant in central Vietnam. That power plant will emit far more air pollution than Japan would allow for a power plant within its own borders.

The same bank labeled an airport expansion in Egypt as eco-friendly because it included solar panels and LED lights.

CC BY-SA Japan counted funding for Egypts Alexandria International Airport, formerly Borg El Arab International Airport, as climate finance. Abdelrhman 1990

In some cases, these projects increase greenhouse gas emissions, rather than lowering them.

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For instance, Japan funded an airport expansion in Papua New Guinea that it labeled as climate finance because it was expected to reduce fuel use. However, an analysis by the International Council on Clean Transportation, used in Reuters analysis, found that if the airport meets passenger targets in its first three years, emissions from outbound flights will rise by an estimated 90% over 2013 levels.

Similarly, Italy claimed $4.7 million as climate finance for helping a chocolate and ice cream company expand into Asia by saying that the project had a climate component. And the U.S. counted a $19.5 million Marriott Hotel development in Haiti as climate finance because the hotel project included stormwater control and hurricane protection measures.

These are not isolated examples. Reuters reviewed climate finance documents it received from 27 countries and found that at least $3 billion labeled as climate finance went to projects that had little or nothing to do with fighting or recovering from climate change. That included movie financing, coal plant construction and crime prevention programs.

For many of these projects, the money comes in the form of loans, which means the developed country that provided the loan will make money off the interest.

Why fixing climate finance matters

A central test for the success of international climate talks will be whether governments can finally agree on a shared definition of climate finance, one that protects the interests of vulnerable countries and avoids creating long-term debt.

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Without that clear definition, donor countries can continue to count marginal or loosely related investments as climate finance.

There are plenty of examples that show how targeted climate finance can help vulnerable countries cut emissions, adapt to rising risks and recover from climate-driven disasters. It has helped saved lives in Bangladesh with early warning systems and storm shelters, and improved crop resistance to worsening drought in Kenya, among other projects.

But when governments and banks count existing development projects and fossil fuel upgrades as climate investments, the result is an illusion of progress while developing countries face worsening climate risks. At the same time, wealthy countries are still spending hundreds of billions of dollars on fossil fuel subsidies, which further drive climate change.

For countries from Jamaica to Bangladesh to the Maldives, the threats from climate change are existential. Every misreported or creatively counted climate finance dollar means slower recovery, lost livelihoods and longer waits for clean water and electricity after the next storm.

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University of Southern California environmental science students Nickole Aguilar Cortes and Brandon Kim contributed to this article.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Shannon Gibson, USC Dornsife College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

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Shannon Gibson does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Pick 'n Save parent company Kroger will close its Pleasant Prairie fulfillment center and lay off 211 employees, one of Wisconsin's biggest job cuts announced this year.

The company said in its Nov. 18 announcement it will also close fulfillment centers in Frederick, Maryland and Groveland, Florida in January 2026. Fulfillment centers are facilities where customers can order grocery deliveries.

The move comes as Kroger looks to update its e-commerce plan by strengthening relationships with DoorDash, Uber Eats and Instacart, its primary delivery provider.

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Kroger and its companies employ more than 400,000 workers and have a customer base of 11 million nationwide.

Here's what to know about the closure:

When will the Pleasant Prairie facility close?

The Pleasant Prairie fulfillment center at 9091 88th Ave. will "begin to wind down" delivery operations in January 2026 and permanently close on Feb. 1, Kroger said in a letter to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development.

Employees at the facility "may use the time after the delivery operation winds down and before their separation to seek other employment," the company said.

How will delivery service from Pick 'n Save and Metro Market be affected?

Kroger said the move will provide grocery orders to more customers through stronger partnerships with third-party delivery companies.

Will the closure improve the speed of Pick 'n Save grocery deliveries?

With its new e-commerce plan, the company hopes to fulfill grocery orders "in as little as 30 minutes," executive vice president and chief digital officer Yael Cosset said.

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"Every customer is different, and they expect more options to access fresh, affordable food, without compromising on the value or convenience," Cosset said in the Nov. 18 announcement. "Our differentiated approach, combining the proximity of our stores with high-capacity automation, the wide assortment of the fresh food they love, allows us to fulfill more trips for the families we serve."

Kroger-owned stores have been able to keep the vast majority of deliveries under two hours, CEO and chairman Ron Sargent said in September.

How do DoorDash, Uber Eats factor into Kroger's new strategy?

Kroger announced an expanded partnership with DoorDash in September. In October, the company revealed plans to offer grocery delivery from all Kroger banner stores on the Uber Eats app in early 2026.

It will also integrate Uber Eats' restaurant selection into the Kroger app so customers can put in grocery and restaurant orders at the same time.

Could more Kroger facilities close in the future?

Kroger said it will continue to monitor the performance of its five remaining fulfillment centers as it moves to a "hybrid" delivery model.

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The company plans to maintain fulfillment centers in geographic areas with highest demand.

Are other larger grocery companies also closing fulfillment centers?

A few other large grocers closed fulfillment centers in recent months, though not at the same rate as Kroger.

Target ended fulfillment operations at a distribution center in Indianapolis Sept. 19, though the facility remains open. A spokesperson said the move came as the company looks to "evolve our supply chain."

Walmart announced this summer it will shutter a Sam's Club fulfillment center in Fort Worth, Texas, but it transferred operations to a new facility across the state.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: How Wisconsin Pick 'n Save customers could benefit from Kroger cuts
ALEXANDRIA, Va. (AP)  The prosecution of former FBI Director James Comey hit another hurdle Wednesday as the Justice Department encountered mounting questions about how the case was presented to a grand jury for indictment.

The development risked further imperiling a politically charged prosecution already subject to multiple challenges and demands for its dismissal. It came during a hearing in which Comey's lawyers asked U.S. District Judge Michael Nachmanoff to throw out the case on grounds that the government was being vindictive and as a separate challenge to Lindsey Halligan, the hastily appointed and inexperienced prosecutor who secured the indictment, is pending.

The Justice Department's acknowledgment under questioning from a judge that the full grand jury did not review a copy of the final indictment is the latest indication of its seemingly disjointed pursuit of a criminal case against one of President Donald Trump's political enemies. Comey was fired by Trump in May 2017 while overseeing an FBI investigation into potential ties between Russia and Trumps 2016 campaign. The two have been publicly at odds ever since, with Trump deriding Comey as a weak and untruthful slime ball and calling for his prosecution.

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Concerns about the legal process came into focus earlier in the week when a different judge in the case raised questions about what he said were profound investigative missteps, including misstatements of law to the grand jury. The Justice Department denies that the process was tainted by irregularities.

A story of two indictments

Halligan initially asked the grand jury to return a three-count indictment against Comey. But after the grand jurors rejected one of the proposed counts, the Justice Department subsequently secured a second two-count indictment that accused Comey of making a false statement and obstructing Congress. Comey has pleaded not guilty and denied wrongdoing.

In a blistering ruling Monday, U.S. Magistrate Judge William Fitzpatrick, also handling parts of the case, said that after reviewing a transcript of the grand jury proceedings, he had questions about whether the full grand jury had reviewed the final two-count indictment that was returned.

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Nachmanoff, the trial judge, pressed the Justice Department about Fitzpatrick's concerns during a court session Wednesday that chiefly focused on Comey's vindictiveness arguments. After conferring privately with Halligan, Tyler Lemons, one of the prosecutors, acknowledged that the revised indictment was not shown to all of the grand jurors.

I was not there, but that is my understanding, your honor, Lemons said.

Nachmanoff called Halligan to the lectern and asked her who was present when the final indictment was presented to a magistrate. She said only two grand jurors, including the foreperson, were there.

Comey lawyer Michael Dreeben called the governments failure to present the final indictment to the entire grand jury grounds for dismissing the case. He also argued that the statute of limitations for the charged crimes has elapsed without a valid indictment.

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That would be tantamount to a bar of further prosecution in this case, Dreeben said.

Nachmanoff did not issue an immediate decision, saying the issues are too weighty and too complex for a bench ruling.

The Justice Department dismissed the import of the revelation in a pair of Wednesday evening filings, saying that the two charges in the final indictment were identical to the two counts the grand jury approved when presented with the proposed indictment.

Given that the grand jury was presented with the two counts on which it voted to return an indictment and in fact voted upon those counts, prosecutors said, the case need not be dismissed.

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Claims of vindictiveness

Dreeben separately argued that the prosecution was improperly vindictive and rooted in Trumps quest for retribution, circumstances requiring a dismissal.

The presidents use of the Department of Justice to bring a criminal prosecution against a vocal and prominent critic in order to punish and deter those who would speak out against him violates the Constitution, Dreeben said.

Though vindictive prosecution motions are not often successful, Comeys lawyers have laid out a laundry list of verbal attacks from Trump in hopes of establishing the case as an outgrowth of the president's personal animus.

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Trump amplified his long-running demands for a Comey prosecution with a September social media post in which he complained to Attorney General Pam Bondi about the lack of action against his political opponents. We cant delay any longer, its killing our reputation, Trump wrote, adding that JUSTICE MUST BE SERVED, NOW!!!

If this is not a direction to prosecute, Dreeben said in court, Id really be at a loss to say what is.

The night of that post, Trump said he would appoint Halligan, a White House aide without prior prosecutorial experience, as U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, on an interim basis. She replaced a veteran prosecutor who was effectively forced from the job after not charging Comey or another Trump foe, New York Attorney General Letitia James.

Halligan secured an indictment of Comey days later as the statute of limitations on the case was about to expire. The charges are related to sworn testimony about whether Comey had authorized an FBI colleague to serve as an anonymous source to the news media.

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Asked by Nachmanoff whether he considered Halligan to be a stalking horse or puppet for the administration, Dreeben demurred and opted against that characterization. But, he said, She did what she was told to do."

Presidents, Dreeben said, have other tools at their disposal to punish critics, but bringing the full weight of the Justice Department to bear is impermissible.

The government cannot use power of criminal prosecutions to attempt to silence a critic in violation of the First Amendment, he said.

Lemons, the Justice Department prosecutor, insisted that Comey was indicted by a properly constituted grand jury because he broke the law  not because Trump ordered it.

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The defendant is not being put on trial for anything he said about the president, Lemons said.

Lemons said nobody directed Halligan to prosecute Comey or seek his indictment.

It was her decision and her decision only, he added.

But Nachmanoff noted that Trump appointed Halligan just days before she presented the Comey case to the grand jury.

What independent evaluation could she have done in that time period? he asked Lemons.

Nachmanoff asked Lemons whether he has seen a declination memo in which prosecutors had outlined reasons for not seeking an indictment against Comey. Lemons said the department had instructed him not to disclose that privileged information.
The News

The impact of a potential military conflict with China over Taiwan could leave more Americans dying of disease than soldiers on the battlefield, President Joe Bidens former drug czar said Tuesday.

Thats because the USt is heavily reliant on just a few countries, including China, for the raw materials used to produce important drugs to treat disease, Dr. Rahul Gupta said at Semafors The Future of Health Forum. That supply chain would likely be disrupted in the event of a conflict involving China over Taiwan or in the South China Sea.

If that conflict  which is the No. 1 threat to the United States  would happen, theres a likelihood that there will be more people devoid of medications on the streets and getting [complications] and dying than potentially soldiers on the battlefield, argued Gupta, the head of GATC Health who previously led the Office of National Drug Control Policy under the Biden administration.

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It will be like having car factories without car parts, so all of our manufacturing is put to no use if you dont have the raw materials, Gupta said. It is very important to think about, from a national security standpoint, a strategy that nearshores even to the American continent the ability to have the raw materials available because today we have such a high burden of disease from heart disease to diabetes to others.

Know More

Gupta, whose previous role in government involved addressing the scourge of opioids and other illegal drugs in the US, also criticized the Trump administrations strikes on alleged drug boats in Latin America as insufficient to address the larger problem of the illegal drug trade.

Theres about 2,500 tons of cocaine that comes to the United States every year. Thats not because its not wanted; theres a demand signal there. Now, the challenge is that striking the boats is like a splash in the water, its not the undercurrent, said Gupta.

I dont think were going to be able to strike our way out of this enormous epidemic, he said, suggesting the need to move from more symbolic tactics to a strategy and the American people need to understand and know what that strategy looks like.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump signed legislation Wednesday night directing the Justice Department to release all files from the Jeffrey Epstein investigation, completing a dramatic reversal after fighting the proposal just last week.

Trump announced on Truth Social that he signed the Jeffrey Epstein Transparency Act, which cleared both chambers of Congress on Tuesday with only one Republican lawmaker voting against it.

"Perhaps the truth about these Democrats, and their associations with Jeffrey Epstein, will soon be revealed, because I HAVE JUST SIGNED THE BILL TO RELEASE THE EPSTEIN FILES," the president said in the announcement on his social media platform. Trump has pointed to Epsteins ties to prominent Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton, proclaiming: "This latest Hoax will backfire on the Democrats just as all of the rest have!"

National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embraces Jeffrey Epstein survivor Liz Stein as they react to the Senate's passing of the bill to force the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Annie Farmer, victim of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, speaks from the podium during a candlelight vigil to honor survivors of his crimes in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. US lawmakers voted overwhelmingly on November 18 for releasing government files on convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, after President Donald Trump dropped his opposition to opening the books on a scandal that has roiled politics, law enforcement and the country's elite. Epstein abuse survivor Danielle Bensky, and National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embrace after receiving word that the U.S. Senate unanimously approved passage of the House's Epstein Files Transparency Act on Capitol Hill on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House voted 427-1 to approve the bill and the release of documents and files. The legislation instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. President Donald Trump can now sign it into law. Epstein abuse survivors were attending a bipartisan vigil hosted by the Democratic Women's Caucus. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) walks to the House Chambers on Nov. 18, 2025 before the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Jena-Lisa Jones, left, victim of Jeffrey Epstein, left, and along with other Epstein survivors and family members depart the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The group of Epstein survivors and family members depart the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Troy Nehls (R-TX) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov.18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) who are leading the charge to release files related to the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, speaking Tuesday morning, Nov. 18, 2025 along with survivors as the House prepares to vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) departs the House floor, following the vote of the U.S. House of Representatives, which passed the bill seeking to release files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. U.S. Representative Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) speaks at a press conference calling for the release of the Epstein files, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Reporters and members of Congress participate in live TV segments before the U.S. House of Representatives begins voting on the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Rep. Nancy Mace (R-SC) walks to the House Chambers in the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House voted 427-1 to approve the Epstein Files Transparency Act and the release of documents and files. The legislation instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. It now goes to the Senate for a vote before President Donald Trump can sign it into law. Reps. Thomas Massie (R-KY) center, and Ro Khanna (D-CA), left, and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), center right, who are leading the charge to release files related to the late disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein, speaking Tuesday morning, Nov. 18, 2025 along with survivors as the House prepares to vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) departs the United States House of Representatives on Nov. 18, 2025 following the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-CO) departing the Capitol on Nov. 18, 2025 after the House voted on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" on compelling the Justice Department to release the full files from the federal investigation of the late convicted sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. See emotional reactions to Epstein files bill clearing Congress in rare moment of unity 1 of 17 National Director of World Without Exploitation Lauren Hersh embraces Jeffrey Epstein survivor Liz Stein as they react to the Senate's passing of the bill to force the release of files related to the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025.

With the legislation signed, the Justice Department has 30 days to publicize "all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials" from the investigation into the disgraced financier and indicted sex trafficker who died by suicide in 2019.

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We'll continue to follow the law with maximum transparency while protecting victims, Attorney General Pam Bondi said earlier in the day.

Whether the Justice Department will release all the documents remains to be seen. The DOJ is permitted to withhold documents that could jeopardize ongoing investigations or violate the privacy rights of Epstein victims.

Two days before Trump changed his tune by calling for House Republicans to vote to release the Epstein files, the president ordered the Justice Department to investigate Democrats linked to Epstein, who died by suicide in a federal prison in 2019.

Jay Clayton, U.S. attorney for the Southern District of New York, has been tapped to lead the investigation.

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Read more: Why all the Epstein files may not come out even though Congress took action

What happens after Trump signed the Epstein files bill?

The Justice Department has 30 days to publicize "all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials" from the investigation into Epstein, according to the legislation.

The legislation compels the Justice Department to release the files to the public in a "searchable and downloadable format," the bill says. Files related to the assassinations of John F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King Jr. that Trump ordered to be released were made available on the National Archives website.

According to the Epstein files bill, certain information can be withheld, including the identity of victims, "child sexual materials," and anything that might jeopardize an ongoing investigation. The attorney general will be required to provide to Congress a summary of redactions made and legal justifications for withholding information.

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A former Trump White House lawyer has said he believes the president will use the provision limiting information related to ongoing investigations to keep Epstein files from being released.

 Michael Loria

How did the bill pass?

Trumps signing of the bill comes after months of controversy over what more information the federal government might have about Epstein.

Americans, and the politicians who represent them, have clamored to know more about the disgraced financier and accused sex trafficker's relationships with the rich and powerful, including the president.

All that scrutiny came to a head on Tuesday when both chambers of Congress overwhelmingly agreed to pass the Epstein Files Transparency Act. The legislation was sent immediately to the president's desk after an abrupt about-face to support the measure despite initially opposing it.

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The success of the measure was a remarkable show of bipartisan force. It was also the culmination of a rare rebuke from congressional Republicans of Trump, whose decades-old ties to Epstein have recently come back to haunt him.

It's unclear how the Justice Department will immediately respond to the new bill. In the short term, the bill represents a win for Epstein's many victims, and potentially, a growing willingness among congressional Republicans to buck the president  at least on some issues.

 Michael Loria

Larry Summers will leave his role at Harvard amid Epstein probe

Former Harvard President Larry Summers will immediately step down from his role as an instructor at Harvard as the Ivy League school investigates his ties to Epstein, according to the Harvard Crimson, the university's student newspaper.

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"His co-teachers will complete the remaining three class sessions of the courses he has been teaching with them this semester, and he is not scheduled to teach next semester," a spokesperson for Summers told The Crimson on Nov. 19.

Earlier in the day, Summers announced that he would be stepping back from his public duties at the university amid new revelations about his relationship with Epstein. He also resigned from the board of tech company OpenAI days after announcing he was stepping away from public commitments due to his connection to Epstein.

"In line with my announcement to step away from my public commitments, I have also decided to resign from the board of OpenAI. I am grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress," Summers said in a statement to USA TODAY on Wednesday.

OpenAI's board said in a statement, "Larry has decided to resign from the OpenAI Board of Directors, and we respect his decision. We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board."

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 Swapna Venugopal Ramaswam and Melina Khan

Epstein abuse survivor Danielle Bensky holds up a photo of her younger self during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Demonstrators hold signs during a press conference on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act" at the US Capitol in Washington, DC on November 18, 2025. US lawmakers are expected to advance a bill on Tuesday requiring the release of government records on sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, in defiance of President Donald Trump's attempts to keep a lid on one of the country's most notorious case files. Epstein abuse survivor Haley Robson reacts as the family of Virginia Giuffre speaks during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Giuffre, who was abused by Jeffrey Epstein, died by suicide in April 2025. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Lisa Phillips speaks during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) speaks during a news conference with U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA), U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) and Jeffrey Epstein abuse survivors on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Haley Robson reacts as fellow survivor Danielle Bensky speaks during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Jena-Lisa Jones holds up a photo of her younger self during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Jena-Lisa Jones (L) hugs U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Annie Farmer holds up a photo of her younger self with her sister Maria Farmer during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Sky Roberts (L), brother of Virginia Giuffre, who was abused by Jeffrey Epstein, and his wife Amanda Roberts hold up a photo of Giuffre during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Virginia Giuffre died by suicide in April 2025. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) (C) speaks alongside U.S. Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) (L) and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Sharlene Rochard holds a photo of her younger self during a news conference on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Epstein abuse survivor Ashley Rubright holds up a photo of her younger self during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Protesters demonstrate outside the U.S. Capitol following a press conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Alleged victims of Jeffrey Epstein rally at Capitol Hill to demand release of files 1 of 14 Epstein abuse survivor Danielle Bensky holds up a photo of her younger self during a news conference with lawmakers on the Epstein Files Transparency Act outside the U.S. Capitol on November 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House is expected to vote today on the legislation, which instructs the U.S. Department of Justice to release all files related to the late accused sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein.

Epstein vote showed a rare bipartisan Trump rebuke

Tuesday's bipartisan support in Congress for passing the bill to release the full Epstein files came at a particularly polarized time in Washington.

The government had just reopened after closing for a record 43 days. GOP lawmakers have been increasingly enraging Democrats by ceding congressional spending powers to the White House. And Democrats have felt all the more emboldened to stand up to Trump on the heels of big off-year election wins.

Despite all that, Sen. John Kennedy, R-Louisiana, told USA TODAY he was surprised at how quickly the Epstein vote came together. Asked why Republicans felt comfortable voting with their political enemies, he said, "I don't know. But I'm glad we did."

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But some Democrats are skeptical that the vote was a green light for Republicans to buck Trump more often, even in his second term.

They only signed on because "they got permission to support it, which is sad in and of itself," Sen. Raphael Warnock, D-Georgia, told USA TODAY. "Protecting children from pedophiles should not be hard," he said.

 Zachary Schermele

Thune says Congress wants DOJ to 'get the information out there' on Epstein

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, said the clear intent from the House and Senate is to get the information out there after both chambers voted overwhelmingly for the Justice Department to release the Epstein files.

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Thune made the comments on Wednesday as Democrats have called for scrutiny of Bondi to ensure she follows the directive in the bill to release all the documents from the Epstein investigation within 30 days.

"I trust the judgment of the Justice Department to ensure that whatever files they release protect the victims, clearly," Thune said in response to a question from a reporter, adding the DOJ will have to "make some decisions" about releasing documents that were presented to the grand jury to convict Epstein. But I think theyll make the right decisions.

 Joey Garrison

Bondi says 'new information' led to new Epstein investigations targeting Democrats

After closing the Epstein case in July, Bondi on Wednesday said new information obtained by federal authorities prompted the Justice Department to launch the new investigation targeting prominent Democrats ties with Epstein.

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Theres information, new information, additional information, Bondi said, without expounding. Again, well follow to follow the law to investigate any leads. If there are any victims, we encourage any victims to come forward.

Bondi announced the new investigation in the Southern District of New York at the direction of Trump, who singled out Trump, former Treasury Secretary Larry Summers, and venture capitalist Reid Hoffman as subjects of the probe.

When Bondi announced the administrations decision not to release the Epstein files in July, the Justice Department and FBI said investigators found no evidence to prompt an investigation into uncharged third parties in the Epstein case.

Under the new Epstein files bill that passed Congress, the Justice Department can withhold documents if they jeopardize ongoing investigations.

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 Joey Garrison

AG Bondi pledges to 'follow the law' after passage of Epstein files bill

Bondi said the Justice Department will follow the law after both chambers of Congress approved legislation compelling the full release of the files in the Epstein investigation.

We'll continue to follow the law with maximum transparency while protecting victims, Bondi said Wednesday. The law passed both chambers last evening. It has not yet been signed, but we will continue to follow the law.

Under the bill, the Justice Department has 30 days to publicize all unclassified records, documents, communications, and investigative materials from the investigation.

But the Justice Department is permitted to withhold documents that could jeopardize ongoing investigations or violate the privacy rights of Epstein victims.

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 Joey Garrison

Epstein survivor hopes Trump invites them to bill signing

Having some Epstein survivors present when Trump signs the Epstein files bill would honor their experience and their push for justice, Teresa J. Helm told USA TODAY on Tuesday. Helm was sexually assaulted by Jeffrey Epstein in the early 2000s.

"Every family knows a survivor of sexual violence," she said. "I truly hope that we are further seen and honored, not for anything political, but for our experience and our pursuit of justice, because it's hugely important. We are directly contributing to our democracy because anything built on corruption always crumbles eventually."

The signing has not yet been scheduled. Many bills are signed into law without a public ceremony.

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 Sarah D. Wire

Lawmaker who texted with Epstein avoids censure

The House on Tuesday evening narrowly voted against formally reprimanding Del. Stacey Plaskett, a Democrat who represents the United States Virgin Islands in the House of Representatives, for communicating with Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing.

In a 209-214 vote, all House Democrats, along with three Republicans  Reps. Don Bacon of Nebraska, Lance Gooden of Texas, and Dave Joyce of Ohio  voted against the measure. Three other Republicans  Reps. Andrew Garbarino of New York, Dan Meuser of Pennsylvania, and Jay Obernolte of California  voted present.

Thousands of documents released last week included copies of text messages that Plaskett exchanged with Epstein during an Oversight Committee hearing. Plaskett was going to question Michael Cohen, a former friend of Epsteins, during the hearing.

During a floor speech on Tuesday, Plaskett denied wrongdoing and said that Epstein was a constituent at the time, as he was a resident of the Virgin Islands. She said it was not public knowledge at that time that he was under federal investigation and that she was just seeking information.

I know how to question individuals, she said. I know how to seek information. I have sought information from confidential informants, from murderers, from other individuals because I want the truth."

 Rebecca Morin

Who is Clay Higgins? Meet the only House member to vote against releasing the Epstein files

Rep. Clay Higgins, a former police officer, was the lone vote against the legislation on Tuesday. For the Louisiana Republican, who typically votes with other conservatives, it was a politically unusual choice. But he said it came down to privacy concerns.

Safeguarding the personal information of Epstein's many victims was his primary issue with the deal, even though most GOP lawmakers, following President Donald Trump's lead, joined with Democrats to support the measure in recent days.

The bill's bipartisan authors  Reps. Thomas Massie, R-Kentucky, and Ro Khanna, D-California  have stressed that the legislation will not expose victims. It stipulates that the Justice Department is permitted to withhold certain information, such as personal details about victims and materials that would jeopardize any active federal investigations.

Epstein accusers present for House vote

A group of the estimated 1,000 women and children who have made accusations against Epstein were in the House gallery during the chamber's vote on Tuesday.

They cheered and hugged as the vote ended. Some representatives applauded.

My sister, Maria Farmer, first reported Jeffrey Epstein and Ghislaine Maxwell to federal authorities nearly three decades ago. Since then, survivors  myself included  have been left in the dark about how our reports were investigated, who was involved in our abuse and trafficking, and why Epstein and Maxwell were able to get away with inflicting pain on so many women and girls for years," said Annie Farmer, who met Epstein at age 16, in a statement after the vote.

Anti-Trump demonstrators near the U.S. Capitol, protest issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S. Sept. 2, 2025. A person holds a placard with images of President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein as they take part in the Make Billionaires Pay climate march and rally in New York City, on Sept. 20, 2025. Protestors gather outside the U.S. Capitol as House members hold a press conference along with alleged victims of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. This protestor hides behind her sign urging release of the Epstein files by the government. Protestors gather outside the U.S. Capitol as House members hold a press conference along with alleged victims of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. A man who declined to be identified makes a sign urging the release of the Epstein files at Government Plaza to take part in the No Kings protest, a nationwide protest against the presidency of Donald Trump on Oct. 18, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. An anti-Trump protester holding a mask depicting Jeffrey Epstein marches at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A banner of Jeffrey Epstein and President Donald Trump hangs in Grand Park during a protest against federal immigration enforcement in downtown Los Angeles, on Aug. 2, 2025. A demonstrator wearing an inflatable costume holds a sign that reads: "Epstein", during a "No Kings" protest against President Donald Trump's policies, in Washington, DC, on Oct. 18, 2025. Tallahassee resident Thomas Bivens attended the Oct. 18, 2025, No Kings protest in Tallahassee and held a sign reading, "Release the Epstein Files." A sign asks "Where are the Epstein files?" at the No Kings Rally, on Oct. 18, 2025, at Peace Park in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Anti-Trump demonstrators march near the U.S. Capitol, protesting against issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A protester calling for a release of the Epstein files holds a sign while awaiting the arrival of Trump administration officials who are expected to discuss strategy amid the deepening political crisis over the administrations handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, at the U.S. Naval Observatory, Vice President JD Vance's official residence, in Washington, DC, on Aug. 6, 2025. People hold signs on the day of a rally in support of Epstein's alleged victims, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. Anti-Trump demonstrators march near the U.S. Capitol, protesting against issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A person rides a bicycle past a poster with a photograph of Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, protesting Trumps upcoming state visit to the UK, in London, on Sept. 3, 2025. Demonstrators carry placards with images depicting President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, during a "No Kings" protest against Trump's policies, in New York City on Oct. 18, 2025. A large banner depicting President Donald Trump alongside disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein is displayed near Windsor Castle by campaign group "Everyone Hates Elon," protesting Trump's state visit to the country, in Windsor, Britain, Sept. 15, 2025. A person walks next to a mobile Ad Van that displays photographs of President Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, in protest of Trump in Aberdeen, Scotland,on July 28, 2025. American, British protesters tie Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein 1 of 19 Anti-Trump demonstrators near the U.S. Capitol, protest issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S. Sept. 2, 2025.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump signs bill ordering release of all Jeffrey Epstein files
MANCHESTER, Conn. (WTNH)  Gina Luari, the owner of Connecticut restaurant chain The Place 2 Be, was in a courtroom once again Tuesday as she answers for felony charges for allegedly writing two bad checks to Restaurant Equipment Paradise.

Luari, 33, and her attorney briefly appeared in Manchester Superior Court Tuesday afternoon to set the next court date and discuss cameras bring allowed inside the courtroom. Luari and her legal counsel, along with the state prosecutor, had no objection to the cameras and the next court date was set for Wednesday, Dec. 10.

PREVIOUS: The Place 2 Be owner responds to legal woes; supplier claims she still owes money

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Luari is currently facing two felony charges  one for larceny and one for writing bad checks. According to the affidavit obtained by News 8, two checks were allegedly issued to Restaurant Equipment Paradise for $2,620.26 and $8,291.20 respectively.

Ken Swerdlick, owner of Restaurant Equipment Paradise, said he went to police after trying to reach Luari multiple times to receive payment but heard nothing from her. Swerdlick says he still hasnt received the money.

A week went by, two weeks went by, a month went by. I tried texting calling her, my general manager tried calling her, my managing director tried calling her  she ignored everything, said Swerdlick in an interview with News 8 Friday.

According to the affidavit, Luari told police she was awaiting her credit from the Blue Back Square shopping center in West Hartford to pay back Restaurant Equipment Paradise. Luari has a Place 2 Be location in Blue Back Square and was trying to open a bakery there too, but according to court records, she was evicted after allegedly issuing another bad check.

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Luari is not only facing legal trouble in Connecticut. News8 learned that Luari has been ordered to pay more than $974,000 to Massachusetts-based New Valley Bank and Trust for failing to make payments to the bank.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
Johnson & Johnson has had the year 2025 circled, highlighted, bolded and underlined on its calendar for a long time. Why? Because patent exclusivity for Stelara, its longtime top-selling drug that treats psoriasis and inflammatory bowel disease, expired this year, allowing so-called biosimilars to hit the market.

In turn, the company has embraced acquisitions to keep its pipeline flowing. On Monday, it announced an agreement to pay $3.1 billion for Halda Therapeutics, a company specializing in prostate cancer treatments.

SUBSCRIBE: Receive more of our free The Daily Upside newsletter. READ ALSO: Bitcoin Struggles to Regain Lost Ground after Rapid Slide and Holiday Spending Hits New Highs, Sort Of

Halda Phone

In its third-quarter earnings statement last month, J&J said that sales of Stelara had plummeted 41% year-over-year to $1.5 billion worldwide. But the company defied expectations, as overall sales continue to climb. No other healthcare company has grown through the loss of exclusivity of a multibillion-dollar product in the first year, CEO Joaquin Duato said during an earnings call this summer.

And now, like its big biotech peers, J&J is doubling down on M&A to shore up its pipeline:

[The Halda] acquisition further strengthens our deep oncology pipeline with an exciting lead asset in prostate cancer and a platform capable of treating multiple cancers and diseases beyond oncology, Jennifer Taubert, worldwide chairman for J&Js innovative medicine division, said in a statement Monday. Haldas pipeline complements J&Js existing oncology portfolio, which generated more than $6 billion in global sales in its most recent quarter.

In addition to Halda, J&J acquired neuroscience drug developer Intra-Cellular Therapies for $14.6 billion in January. It remains one of the blockbuster moves of the year, along with last weeks $9.2 billion acquisition of flu treatment company Cidara by Merck, and Pfizers $10 billion purchase of obesity drugmaker Metsera.

Chip Dip: The loss of Stelara wasnt the only headwind slamming J&J this year. Like the rest of the industry, the company grappled with an onslaught of tariffs imposed by President Donald Trump. But even that gale-force headwind seems to be fading: Last month, the administration struck tariff-exemption deals with Pfizer and AstraZeneca. The news, along with this years dealmaking boom, has stoked significant investor interest in the biotech sector. State Streets SPDR S&P Biotech ETF has climbed about 26% since the start of September, while the overall S&P 500 has risen just 4%. Our diagnosis? Bubble or not, theres some comfort to be had outside the AI boom.

This post first appeared on The Daily Upside. To receive delivering razor sharp analysis and perspective on all things finance, economics, and markets, subscribe to our free The Daily Upside newsletter.
NEED TO KNOW

Meagan and Issac were set to fly to Italy for their wedding when TSA discovered a pistol in Issacs carry-on bag

The couple shared their story in a TikTok that quickly went viral, drawing sharp criticism from strangers

Her husband cautions others to be more mindful of their firearms

A Tennessee couples trip to Italy for their wedding nearly ended before it began when security officers discovered a firearm inside one of their carry-on bags.

Bride-to-be Meagan (who, like her fiance Isaac, has asked not to use her last name) went through security first, waiting for her bag on the conveyor belt. Moments later, officers pulled Issacs backpack aside for a secondary inspection. Inside, they found a pistol.

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I kind of thought they were messing with me at first, because the TSA lady brought my bag over and said, Youre in trouble,  Issac tells PEOPLE. And I was like, okay, what for?' And she said, You brought a gun. And then I kind of laughed and said, No, but really? And she said, No, theres a gun in your bag. And I said, Oh God. 

In Tennessee, persons 21 or older are legally allowed to carry a loaded handgun, openly or concealed, without having a permit, so long as they purchased the handgun lawfully and they are in "a place where they are lawfully present," per the Memphis Police Department. Packing firearms in carry-on luggage is prohibited by federal regulations, and passengers found in violation face fines, questioning and potential criminal investigation.

Issac was taken to a separate room where he underwent more than an hour of questioning. Authorities conducted a background check and coordinated with the FBI to determine whether further action was needed. They took me to a room for questioning, ran a background check, had to talk with the FBI, verify that I did not mean to do that, he says.

During this process, Meagan waited in the terminal, as their wedding timeline depended on arriving in Italy with enough time to prepare.

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The only thing I was thinking was if we dont make this flight, we will have to find another flight, Meagan tells PEOPLE. I wanted to get to Italy and make sure that we had enough time just to get rid of jet lag, get acclimated. I knew that we had two full days to get it worked out and get there regardless. So that was some sort of relief, but I was still panicking because I like things to go according to plan, and they were not going to plan at all.

With minutes to spare before the plane departed, officers cleared Issac and allowed him to board. Once on the flight, Meagan decided to share the story on TikTok, though she did not anticipate the level of attention it would draw.

People didnt follow me unless they knew me, she says. People know our sense of humor, the way that we talk, the way that we are if theyre around us in person. So I posted it just in a moment of like, once again, this would happen to us, you know, a series of unfortunate events.

By the time she checked her phone after boarding, notifications had already surged. When we finally boarded the plane, and I sat down and looked at my phone, and I pulled up my TikTok  the notifications at the top were like 5,205, she says. I looked at him and I said, You [watch], this will be the video that goes viral, for what reason? I dont know. 

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The video quickly spread, sparking widespread debate in the comments. Many commenters criticized Issac for bringing a gun into an airport without realizing it. A lot of the comments pertain to, This is very irresponsible, you should know where all your guns are at any time,  Meagan says. Others suggested that the situation raised serious concerns about firearm storage.

Some commenters even said they would have ended the relationship rather than continue the trip. Surprisingly, a lot of comments said, I wouldve broke up with him for this. I wouldve left and went on that trip by myself,  she notes.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Im like, guys, its not that serious. These things happen, she says, And then there were comments of people saying, and Ive had people message me personally and say, This happened to us. So there were other people who related and who were being nice, but a lot of the people were not nice.

Ashton Calvert Meagan and Issac Meagan and Issac

Issac acknowledges the seriousness of the situation and says he hopes the incident serves as a reminder to other travelers.

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I never thought I would make a mistake like that, but in the rush of things, I was negligent," he admits. "Maybe somebody will think twice about it if, say, theyre in a carry state or they carry often. He also expressed appreciation for how TSA and law enforcement handled the process.

Despite the disruption and the online criticism, the couple went forward with their trip and their wedding in Italy as planned. The couple said they now view the airport ordeal as part of the larger story of their marriage.



Read the original article on People
Nearly 30 faculty, students and staff at CT State Manchester held an informational picket on Tuesday calling for investment in higher education after years of underfunding at CT State Community College, which they say has resulted in cuts in courses, mental health counselors, administrative support staff, tutoring and full-time faculty positions.

Seth Freeman, president of the Congress of Connecticut Community Colleges (4Cs), SEIU 1973, and professor at CT State Capital, said decades of underfunding have left our community colleges struggling to provide essential support like advising, tutoring and mental health services.

We are not satisfied with this decade-long status quo of underfunding that manifests in 75% of faculty being part-time, he said. Colleges are canceling classes on campus to save money and students are having to take more classes online.

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Freeman said the cuts will have long-term impacts on students.

This will manifest in our students not being prepared when they graduate to transfer successfully and not being prepared to enter the workforce, he said. That impacts our entire workforce.

CT State Community College did not return an email for comment in time for this article.

Underfunding has also resulted in cuts to over 100 sections of courses, according to the Congress of Connecticut Community Colleges, SEIU 1973.

Wanda Reyes-Dawes, the sole mental health counselor at CT State Manchester, said there is a need for an additional counselor at the campus as the need for mental health services is growing there. She said while there are telehealth services available, it is not enough to meet the need.

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CT State Naugatuck Valley and CT State Gateway each have two mental health counselors for its student body, she said.

CT State Manchester is the third largest campus in the CT State Community College system.

She said students are suffering from stress, anxiety and depression.

Above all, Reyes-Dawes said the biggest issue students are struggling with is a deep-seated feeling of loneliness that I have never seen before.

She said 60% of students feel technology gets in the way of their schooling.

Because they are so involved with their technology, they have really not socialized outside of the home, she said. I think it could contribute to their loneliness as they are not socializing and connecting with others besides a machine. I go home with my heart and soul very heavy. The level of hopelessness  I go home with a broken heart and it hurts. I can only do so much for them.

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Other areas cut over the years have included sports, fitness classes, Saturday campus hours, mentorship programs, and academic degree programs.

Freeman said the union did not have figures available on how much the CT State Community College system has been underfunded over the years.

Marsha Ball-Davis, campus supervisor of enrollment services at CT State Manchester, said that she is fortunate to have the staffing as promised in her department but, she said, other community colleges are short staffed.

My biggest concern is that we want to provide the best service that we can to students and we want to be able to offer the full array of courses that we are supposed to offer in order for them to enroll and get through their program in a timely manner, she said.

Many of the One Stop Enrollment Centers at other campuses around the state are understaffed which negatively impacts enrollment and retention because these offices provide admissions, registration and record services to their campuses and are front-line student-facing offices that impact enrollment and retention.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection now says Operation Charlottes Web has resulted in 250 arrests.

Some people are growing more frustrated as the CBP operation lingers on in the Queen City, while others, including the mayor of Monroe and the North Carolina Republican Party, are speaking out in support of the arrests.

The operations arent limited to Charlotte. Federal immigration agents began conducting operations in Raleigh Tuesday, and hundreds of people marched through downtown to protest.

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Meanwhile, the Catawba County Sheriffs Office confirmed that Border Patrol agents are expected to visit Catawba County this week. The anticipation of Border Patrol activity is affecting local businesses and school attendance rates.

What to know for Nov. 19:

More than 25,000 CMS students were absent Tuesday, compared to nearly 10,000 on a normal day.

Channel 9 saw agents making arrests in the Foothills for the first time.

Immigration enforcement in the Charlotte area has led to the arrest of over 250 undocumented immigrants as of Tuesday night, DHS said Wednesday afternoon.

For the second night in a row, crowds gathered outside Manolos Bakery in east Charlotte to protest.

A community volunteer was arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents at Eastway Shopping Center in Charlotte Tuesday after witnesses say he was honking his horn at them. He has since been released from FBI custody.

The N.C. GOP released a statement Tuesday affirming their support for the immigration crackdown in the state and criticizing democrats.

Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools absences nearly tripled Monday compared to one week earlier, according to records. On Nov. 10, there were 9,975 unexcused absences. On Nov. 17, there were 28,136 unexcused absences.

CMS is defending its decision to keep students in class despite the increased enforcement. Some parents wanted the district to go to remote learning after seeing CBP activity near campuses.

Federal immigration agents have arrived in Raleigh and are set to conduct operations starting Tuesday, according to Raleigh Mayor Janet Cowell.

ABC News reports Border Patrol agents will be in Charlotte until Friday. Then, about 200 agents will move to New Orleans for another operation.

NOTICIAS EN ESPANOL >> Telemundo Charlotte

>>Keep an eye on this article and on WSOCTV.com or watch Eyewitness News on Channel 9 for updates throughout the day.

VIDEO: Border Patrol agents target communities in east Charlotte
An FBI special agent trainee who was terminated three weeks before graduation from the FBI Academy in Quantico, Virginia, says his October firing over a Pride flag display sparked immediate fear across all 56 FBI field offices. He believes that it reflects a broader political purge under FBI Director Kash Patel. In an interview with The Advocate, 36-year-old David Maltinsky, who is suing the federal government over his unlawful termination, described a workforce suddenly afraid to be visibly LGBTQ+.

Keep up with the latest in LGBTQ+ news and politics. Sign up for The Advocate's email newsletter.

Maltinsky detailed how the decision upended his life and rattled one of the countrys most powerful law enforcement institutions. People immediately started scouring their desks of Pride flags, anything personal in nature, even, he said. People were having meetings for weeks following [discussing how] this threat of dismissal can now come from inside your workplace.

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Related: Gay former FBI official sues Kash Patel & Pam Bondi for Pride flag firing

He spoke with The Advocate on Wednesday, after his legal team filed a federal lawsuit in the Washington, D.C. District Court, alleging Patel and Attorney General Pamela Bondi fired him unconstitutionally and retroactively, punishing him for displaying a Progress Pride flag at his Los Angeles workstation years earlier, a flag the FBI itself once flew and later gave him to keep.

A Lavender Scare in the 21st century

Theres definitely concern in the federal government, especially the FBI, that a Lavender Scare has been sparked, Maltinsky said. Im hoping this lawsuit will put an end to that, but the reality is, when I was fired and this political signage was in fact a Pride flag, that sent a shock wave throughout the bureau.

Related: FBI tells employees not to celebrate Pride Month in official capacity or on bureau time



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Inside the FBI, news spreads fast. We do a great job of keeping our work secrets from the public, he said. Internally, we can share a lot. The grapevine spreads quickly. Within hours of his firing, LGBTQ+ employees removed desk decor, scrubbed cubicles, and checked on one anothers workspaces for anything that could be interpreted as political. It spread like wildfire, he said.

The original Lavender Scare emerged in the early 1950s, when federal agencies, including the FBI, systematically purged thousands of gay and lesbian employees under the pretext that their identities made them national security risks. Parallel to the Red Scare targeting those suspected of being communists but more hidden in public memory, it became one of the most comprehensive government-backed campaigns of discrimination in U.S. history, stripping workers of careers, clearances, and livelihoods.

What makes me even more sad and disheartened, Maltinsky said about the current situation, is the fear that my firing stoked across the workforce. It is awful that people are afraid to go to work.

How did we get here?

Maltinsky entered the FBI as an intern at 18 and was hired full-time at 19. He came out at 21, already working at the bureau. Over 16 years, he supported high-profile corruption investigations, worked cyber cases, served as a staff operations specialist, and led the Bureau Equality Committee, advising leadership on LGBTQ+ issues.

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In 2019, he became chair of the FBIs LGBTQ+ advisory group and earned the Directors Award for Outstanding Service in Diversity and Inclusion, he said. Two years later, when the FBI and the General Services Administration authorized Pride flags on federal buildings, the Los Angeles Field Office used Maltinskys own Progress Pride flag, the one he personally owned, because the building didnt have one on hand. That flag became the first Pride flag flown over the Wilshire Federal Building.

Related: Angry Democratic lawmakers slam despicable Kash Patel for firing FBI agent over LGBTQ+ Pride flag



After Pride Month, GSA returned the flag to the FBI, and senior leadership gave it to him. He hung the Progress flag on his cubicle wall, where it stayed from June 2021 until he left for the academy in June of this year, adding a little color, he said. In June 2022, Attorney General Merrick Garland awarded Maltinsky the Attorney Generals Award for Equal Employment Opportunity.

I want to know how this progressed to where we are now, he said about the drastic U-turn in his career from being hailed by one administration to being fired by the Trump administration in what is supposed to be an apolitical agency.

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Related: This week, Pete Hegseth and Kash Patel started the frightening return of the Lavender Scare



He also made clear that he never tried to obscure his identity. He kept his sexual orientation listed in the FBIs voluntary self-ID portal, even when rumors spread early in the current administration that Elon Musks Department of Government Efficiency teams might scrape identity data from federal systems. It would be foolish to hide who I am, he said. And it would give power to the fear.

A broader purge

Civil rights attorney Chris Mattei, a partner at Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder PC who represents the terminated trainee and who joined the interview, said Maltinskys firing fits into a pattern.

We represent the senior leadership of the FBI that was fired back in August, Mattei said. They were fired because they were perceived not to be willing to carry out politically motivated acts.

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In September, three senior FBI officials, including a former acting director and two field office chiefs, filed suit alleging that Patel oversaw a campaign of retribution under pressure from the White House and Justice Department. The officials claim their firings were part of a purge of those deemed insufficiently loyal to former President Donald Trump and argue that the FBIs operations and morale have been deeply damaged.

Mattei told The Advocate that the unlawful targeting is widespread. If [the Trump administrations] perception of your politics or who you are as a person is out of step with the ideology surrounding MAGA, then theyre going to get rid of you. It upends what everybody whos come up in the FBI has been taught to believe about their work.

Malinksky added, That is not the FBI. That is not what the men and women and nonbinary employees of the FBI go to work to do. Were there for the mission. Were there to serve the American people.

Related: Anti-transgender former Missouri AG appointed to FBI leadership



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Mattei said Patel likely expected Maltinsky to go away. He was probably counting on just going quietly, but they messed with the wrong guy, he said.

An FBI spokesperson did not respond to questions, instead telling The Advocate, The FBI declines to comment on pending litigation.

A workforce already in crisis

At a 2018 HR conference, Maltinsky recalled, the bureau warned that America is getting more diverse, the FBI is getting more white  that is an operational crisis. The events of the last month, he said, threaten to drive recruitment even lower. It is already difficult enough to get people to work in public service, and this is not making it any better.

He remembered marching in Pride parades in an official capacity with the FBI. Every time, he heard someone say, You can be gay at the FBI?

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Yes, he said, in 2019, but added, And here we are in 2025.

Fighting for those who cant

Now unemployed and unhoused after giving up his Los Angeles lease to relocate for training, hes staying with friends while he prepares for the legal fight. When the FBI kicked me out, I didnt have anywhere else to go, he said. Ive been leaning on friends. They have been incredible.

Asked what he would say to LGBTQ+ federal employees now afraid to be visible, he said, Stay the course. Stay strong. If they have the courage to keep a Pride flag on their desk, I applaud them. And if they feel like theyd rather just put it away for now, I want them to know that I am here fighting for them.

He added, I pledged my allegiance to the United States. I took that oath to uphold and defend the Constitution, and I intend to uphold that oath. Im carrying that out today.

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This article originally appeared on Advocate: Decorated FBI agent trainee fired over Pride flag warns new Lavender Scare is spreading like wildfire

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A monument in the Gettysburg National Military Park along the Union lines where Pickett's Charge was repulsed on July 3, 1863. (Photo by Tim Lambert/Pennsylvania Capital-Star)

Every November 19th is a big day here in Gettysburg as we observe Dedication Day.

This is a series of events preceded by the Remembrance Day Parade the Saturday before, and including Wednesdays wreath-laying ritual, Naturalization ceremony, keynote speaker, recitation of the Gettysburg Address, and lighting of luminaria, culminating with the Gettysburg College Fortenbaugh Lecture at the Majestic Theater in the evening.

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All of this is a much-anticipated and beloved annual slate of events commemorating the consecration of the Gettysburg National Cemetery here and especially celebrating Lincolns Gettysburg Address, in which he challenged his listeners to honor the courageous dead of that battle by completing their unfinished work.

The Pennsylvania Memorial at the Gettysburg National Military Park. (Photo by Tim Lambert/Pennsylvania Capital-Star)

I hope that readers finish that work by honoring the courageous living veterans who find themselves embattled by hunger, homelessness, and other pressing needs.

Unfortunately, that battle has gotten a whole lot harder in recent weeks, as veterans were hit particularly hard by the recent federal government shutdown.

Moreover, it is vital to note that the stalemate in Congress concerning extensions of the tax credits associated with the Affordable Care Act (ACA), commonly called Obamacare, has direct ramifications for veterans. Non-senior veterans who rely on the enhanced premium tax credits held hostage by the shutdown may find themselves without health care if these credits are not extended.

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Indeed, more than a quarter million might lose their healthcare coverage. Of course, some vets receive their healthcare through the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Readers should know, though, that VA benefit eligibility is limited to certain priority groups, including veterans with low incomes or who have service-connected disabilities, and VA services can be inaccessible for those who do not live near VA facilities.

As a result, subsidized coverage through Medicaid and Marketplaces plays an important role in coverage for nonelderly veterans.

It is clear, then, that issues concerning veteran healthcare were actually at the very core of the recent government closure, and this is the major sticking point not directly addressed by the deal to end the shutdown. A vote on this issue is supposed to come in December, and the results of that vote will have an outsized impact upon veterans.

In addition, with Thanksgiving right around the corner, its particularly heartbreaking to realize that an even more pressing crisis is hunger, which also affects veterans in disproportionate numbers. Even before the shutdown the wolf was already at the door of the households of many Vets, as some 1.2 million veterans nationwide rely upon Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP benefits).

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This Dedication Day, let us follow the charge of President Abraham Lincoln by fighting the battle still before us, offering increased devotion to those veterans among us.

About 60,000 of these live in Pennsylvania, which is about 9% of our local veteran population. In Pennsylvania in particular, food insecurity is an ongoing battle for many veterans, especially because the recent shutdown made it clear that SNAP benefits have become just another ante in the high-stakes game of hold em that Washington politicians continue to play with other folks lives.

There is some short-term good news on this front for Pennsylvanians, however. On the last day of October, Governor Josh Shapiro announced new state-led efforts to support Pennsylvanias charitable food network and the two million Pennsylvanians who rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). He channeled $5 million to Feeding Pennsylvania in order to expedite distribution through that organizationsnetwork of food banks throughout the state.

In addition, the commonwealth provides emergency financial assistance to Veterans in need through the Veterans Temporary Assistance (VTA) Program, funded by donations. Such assistance is vital because veterans are disproportionately at risk for a range of challenges, and are much more likely to find themselves homeless than are members of the general population.

A canon overlooks a field from the U.S. position at the Gettysburg National Military Park. (Photo by Tim Lambert/Pennsylvania Capital-Star)

Veterans often face such challenges in no small part as a result of their service.

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Falling as it does the week after Veterans Day, Dedication Day offers a perfect opportunity not simply to glorify the heroes of the past, but to embrace and to offer solace to the living who have served their country with honor but have fallen upon hard times.

This Dedication Day, let us follow the charge of President Abraham Lincoln by fighting the battle still before us, offering increased devotion to those veterans among us.

Let us seek out those in need and offer them support in terms of food and shelter and other necessities.

Moreover, let us be, in Lincolns words, dedicated to the great task remaining before us, and find ways to address the health care crisis facing veterans and others in the short term and to provide better services for hungry and homeless veterans in the long term.

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Christopher Fee

Christopher Fee has taught service-learning courses on homelessness, poverty, affordable housing, and rural education for over 20 years. He is Graeff Professor of English at Gettysburg College and a member of the Eisenhower Institute College Advisory Board. Fee is a Member of Menallen Monthly Meeting of the Religious Society of Friends (Quakers).
A new Florida bill aims to protect state lands from speedy land swap deals that put a cherished conservation area in peril back in May.

It was just five months ago that 600 acres of land in the Guana River Wildlife Management Area were almost traded to a developer for 3,000 acres of various parcels across the state.

When the plan was announced, conservation advocates like Chris Farrell with Audubon Florida had only a week to raise the alarm before it was set to come up for a vote of approval.

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We were lucky at Audubon. We caught it the evening that it came out, said Farrell.

They succeeded in blocking the swap, but State Representative Kim Kendall (R-St. Augustine) argues the deal should have never been proposed in the first place.

Shes filed new legislation that aims to prevent another hasty attempt to exchange state lands.

If I can only one bill across the line, this is it, said Kendall.

The bill requires 30 days notice for any proposed land transaction, an appraisal of the lands and a more detailed description of how the conservation lands would be used.

[DOWNLOAD: Free Action News Jax app for alerts as news breaks]

You know, if its a good conservation swap, if its something thats needed, there should be no issue to tell me, show me, give me plenty of notice, said Kendall.

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Farrell said he believes the bill is a good start that will give impacted communities more time to digest and provide feedback on any future land swap plans.

And while the bill does require a statement indicating why a proposed land exchange would result in a conservation benefit, he said he would like to see stronger language ensuring the state does more work to evaluate the environmental impact of a sale.

And make a determination that they feel based on the ecological values that any proposed swap would actually be in the public interest, said Farrell.

Kendalls bill was just filed on Tuesday.

That same day, a companion bill was filed in the Florida Senate.

Session officially begins on January 13th.

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A Delaware County man has been arrested and charged with murder nearly one year after a fatal shooting in Madison Township.

Austin Hagemann, 25, was arrested on the morning of Nov. 18 at his home in the portion of Westerville in Delaware County by deputies with the Franklin County SWAT Team and members of the U.S. Marshals Southern Ohio Fugitive Apprehension Strike Team, or SOFAST, the sheriff's office said in a news release.

Hagemann is accused of fatally shooting 38-year-old Jack Hamilton while the two men were in a fight. In addition to murder, Hagemann has been charged with felonious assault, discharging a firearm on or near a prohibited premises, and improper handling of a firearm, according to the sheriff's office.

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On Dec. 19, 2024, at around 3:30 p.m., Madsion Township police officers and sheriff's deputies responded to a shooting in the 3000 block of Noe Bixby Road. According to the sheriff's office, Hagemann went to Hamilton's home to take back some auto parts that he believed Hamilton owed him. The two got into an escalating argument, the sheriff's office said.

Hagemann eventually tried to leave in his van, but Hamilton jumped on the running board on Hagemann's van and began punching him, the sheriff's office said. Hagemann continued backing out of the driveway and onto Noe Bixby Road while Hamilton stayed on the running board, according to the sheriff's office.

At that point, the sheriff's office said Hagemann allegedly pulled out a gun and shot Hamilton once in the chest.

Medics transported Hamilton in critical condition to Mount Carmel East Hospital, where he was pronounced dead at 4:08 p.m.

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After the investigation, the case was sent to the Franklin County Prosecutor's Office for review. The evidence was then presented to a grand jury, which indicted Hagemann on Nov. 12.

Hagemann is in custody at the Franklin County jail.

Reporter Shahid Meighan can be reached at smeighan@dispatch.com, at ShahidMeighan on X, and at shahidthereporter.dispatch.com on Bluesky.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Austin Hagemann, 25, charged in fatal shooting Madison Township
Democrats have introduced a bill that would impose donation restrictions for President Donald Trumps $300 million ballroom project.

The East Wing of the White House has been demolished to make way for Trumps gilded 90,000 square-foot ballroom. Its estimated to cost $300 million and Trump has said it will be funded by dozens of wealthy donors and companies.

The Stop Ballroom Bribery Act, introduced Tuesday by Massachusetts Senator Elizabeth Warren and California Rep. Robert Garcia, would ban donations from individuals with conflicts of interest, prevent the president and vice president from contributing and mandate real names to be used when making donations, among other requirements.

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Billionaires and giant corporations with business in front of this administration are lining up to dump millions into Trumps new ballroom  and Trump is showing them where to sign on the dotted line. Americans shouldnt have to wonder whether President Trump is building a ballroom to facilitate a pay-to-play scheme for political favors. My new bill will put an end to what looks like bribery in plain sight, Warren said in a statement.

The Independent has reached out to the White House for comment.

Democrats have introduced a bill aimed to restrict private donations to President Donald Trumps $300 million ballroom in the White House (REUTERS)

Last month, the president told reporters that the project was "paid for 100% by me and some friends of mine. Sponsors include tech giants Amazon, Apple Google, and Microsoft, crypto companies Coinbase and Ripple, the Winklevoss twins and the family of Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick, according to a list provided by the White House.

Some donors have been allowed to remain anonymous, the Democrats said.

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The White House has refused to be fully transparent, publishing only a noncomprehensive donor list missing multiple key donors and offering donors anonymity, the Tuesday release stated.

The legislation would require transparency, mandating donors to disclose any meetings with the federal government that occur within one year of the donation and prohibiting anonymous donations. On a quarterly basis, the National Park Service would be required to publish the donors name, the amount contributed, and any meeting with officials, the bill proposal says.

"It's outrageous that the White House wont reveal whos bankrolling Trumps pet project, and that the peoples house could be funded by shady figures, corrupt money, and bad actors. This bill will ban contributions from anyone with a conflict of interest, prevent bribery, and ensure we can hold any administration accountable for blatant corruption, Garcia said.

Last month, Connecticut Senator Richard Blumenthal sent letters to the listed donors asking how much they contributed to the ballroom project and whether they had reached an agreement in exchange for their donations. Only 16 donors have replied so far, but none have specified how much they donated, CBS News reported.

Construction crews remove the East Wing of the White House and prepare for the new ballroom construction (Getty Images)

Trump has said about $350 million has been raised by private donors.

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President Trump has put a for sale sign on the White Housesoliciting hundreds of millions of dollars from special interests to fund his $300 million vanity project. Our measure is a direct response to Trumps ballroom boondoggle, Blumenthal, a co-sponsor of the legislation, said in a statement.

With commonsense reforms to how the federal government can use private donations, our legislation prevents President Trump and future presidents from using construction projects as vehicles for corruption and personal vanity.

The proposed legislation would also prohibit displaying donors names and logos as recognition of the donation and imposes a two-year cooling-off period before a donor to a covered project can lobby the federal government.

The bill would cover the construction, improvement, or other alteration of property on the White House grounds, the VPs residence, or other public property that the President or VP regularly use (such as Camp David or Air Force One); events hosted at such locations; and monuments or other structures that honor a living President or VP, the release said.

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The bill is not likely to gain traction in the Republican-controlled House or Senate and the proposal does not currently have any Republican co-sponsors.

It is also unlikely Trump would sign it into law.
Democrats believe they have an opening to reclaim Latino voters that fled the party last year  but a prominent Latino-focused group argued the party needs to present a message thats more than just anti-Donald Trump.

Trumps approval among Latino voters has tapped new lows, continuing a months-long plunge in support among the voting bloc Republicans are relying on to sustain their strongholds in the midterms, according to polling sponsored by Latino voter group Somos Votantes and its affiliated PAC that was shared first with POLITICO.

Trumps personal favorability is underwater by 26 points among Latino voters, according to a survey conducted by GSG. The drop continues a sustained slump among the demographic that has only worsened since the beginning of the year, and sank another 6 points since September.

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But the new polling offers an equally grim outlook on Trumps handling of the economy  an issue the administration has touted as one of their top achievements and a ballot issue both sides of the aisle have identified as a main decider in top races. Trump is underwater by 30 points on the issue, dipping from 38 percent approval in May to 34 percent in November.

The reality is that Donald Trump promised to slash prices on day one, said Melissa Morales, Somos president. That was something that he repeated over and over and that he certainly hasn't delivered on. What we need to see as we move into next year is that Latino voters are looking for a positive economic vision to believe in. The side that can deliver that in a real way will win over Latino voters.

Latino voters who swung toward Trump in 2024 rebounded back toward Democrats in this cycles off-year races, with the Democratic candidates in both New Jersey and Virginia winning heavily Latino areas. Democrats have heralded these wins as a sign that their messaging on affordability offers the party a chance to harness Latino voters back to the party base, a takeaway Morales said the survey reaffirms.

The Democratic message cant just be anti-Trump, she said. It has to be providing Latino voters with a positive economic vision for the future and giving them something to believe in.

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That's the sort of vision that Latino voters are looking for right now, and that if Democrats want to win Latino voters back over, that they will have to provide, she added.

Republicans have largely dismissed the partys recent struggles with Latinos, saying the GOP will bounce back by the midterms. They point to their inroads with Latino voters in recent cycles, noting Trumps historic gains in 2024 as well as a string of wins in some majority-Latino congressional districts.

Democrats have ignored Hispanic communities over the past nine years while millions of working families rejected their radical, socialist agenda, Christian Martinez, the National Republican Congressional Committees national Hispanic press secretary, told POLITICO last week. Republicans will continue to earn the support of Hispanic voters because we are working to deliver opportunity, security, and a better life.

A majority of Latino voters in the Somos poll overwhelmingly reported extreme concern with the rising cost of living at 64 percent. The polling suggested that Democrats could capitalize on this concern, with Latinos largely holding Republicans responsible for the state of the economy: 45 percent say they blame the GOP for the rising cost of living, compared to 24 percent who blamed Democrats.

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Latino voters are genuinely worried about making sure that they make ends meet, said pollster Rosa Mendoza. And I think Republicans having that be one of their core messages as they were heading into the election in 2024, and yet being very much on the back burner  its not helping them.

Global Strategy Group conducted the national poll of 800 Latino registered voters from Nov. 4 to 12. It has a margin of error of plus-or-minus 3.5 percentage points.

A version of this article first appeared in POLITICO Pros Morning Score. Want to receive the newsletter every weekday? Subscribe to POLITICO Pro. Youll also receive daily policy news and other intelligence you need to act on the days biggest stories.




A Bexar County Sheriff's Office deputy corporal is accused of pushing a woman against the wall, then holding her on the floor with his hand over her neck.

Jonatan Amaya, 36, was arrested Monday and is charged with assaulting a family or household member by impeding breath or circulation, as well as interfering with an emergency request for assistance. He posted a $23,500 bond and was released Tuesday from the Bexar County jail, according to court records.

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The alleged assault occurred Sunday, officials said. A woman, who is also a civilian employee with the sheriff's office, reported that Amaya had arrived at her residence uninvited.

The woman said that both she and Amaya began arguing about their relationship. At some point, their argument turned physical.

Deputies said that the woman repeatedly asked Amaya to leave the residence. But after the woman warned Amaya that she would call the police, he grabbed her phone and threw it across the room.

READ ALSO: Human trafficking suspected after task force raid at a San Antonio motel

As their conflict continued, Amaya allegedly grabbed the woman by the arms and pushed her against the wall. Then, he held her down on the floor with his hand over her neck, according to the sheriff's office. The sheriff's office did not say how the argument ended.

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Public Integrity Unit investigators later spoke with the woman about the incident. Afterward, the sheriff's office arrested Amaya while he was on duty.

Amaya has been with the agency since Jan. 18, 2018, and is assigned to the detention bureau, officials said. He had been promoted to corporal on Feb. 25, 2023.

In a statement, Sheriff Javier Salazar said: "Our Public Integrity Unit did an outstanding job of acting swiftly in making this arrest and ensuring the safety of the victim. We will continue to act in the best interest of justice, regardless of who the perpetrator is."

This article originally published at Deputy arrested, accused of holding woman down by neck during argument.
China Int'l Emergency Management Exhibition kicks off in Beijing

Xinhua) 08:30, November 19, 2025

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

People visit the China International Emergency Management Exhibition (CIEME) at the China National Convention Center in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. Kicked off here on Tuesday, the 3-day event boasted an exhibition area of about 40,000 square meters, with more than 300 exhibitors participating. (Xinhua/Guo Yu)

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
JPMorgan JPM has decided to close its Mobility Payments Solution platform, VW Pay, which it acquired from Volkswagen AG in 2021, due to concerns over profitability. This was reported by Globaldata, citing a Bloomberg report that quoted a person familiar with the matter.

Rationale Behind JPMorgans Move

VW Pay focuses on delivering payments technology to companies across the mobility ecosystem, enabling digital payments for vehicle purchases, fuel, parking and other services. Although JPMorgan wont operate the platform, it will continue providing mobility-related services to its clients in the sector.



JPMs decision will impact staff in Luxembourg and Munich. In Luxembourg, 33 roles are expected to be cut in 2026 according to the financial sector union Aleba, while other employees may be reassigned or see their positions eliminated.



According to a Luxembourg Times article, the business remained loss-making despite higher transaction volumes, rising from 180.9 million in 2023 to 222.6 million in 2024, with annual losses widening from 24.2 million in 2023 to 28.8 million in 2024. Even after a 31 million capital injection in April 2025, executives concluded there was no viable path to profitability.



Its the latest instance of JPMorgan being willing to move away from tech initiatives that fail to meet expectations. In 2019, the firm said it would close its Chase Pay app, a digital wallet launched to compete with players like Apple that were reshaping consumer payments. When JPMorgan ultimately decided to end the project, fewer than 1% of merchants were using the wallet.



This move aligns with JPMorgans efforts to reallocate capital to profit-making regions. In September, the bank announced its plans to launch Chase Digital Bank in Germany to strengthen its position in Europe.

JPMorgans Price Performance & Zacks Rank

So far this year, JPMorgan shares have rallied 24.9% compared with the industrys growth of 25.7%.

Zacks Investment Research



Image Source: Zacks Investment Research

Currently, JPM carries a Zacks Rank #3 (Hold). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here.

Restructuring Efforts by Other Finance Firms

Earlier this month, NorthJersey.com reported, citing a company spokesperson, that The Toronto-Dominion Bank TD is set to close eight branches across New Jersey on Jan 29. 2026, including three in North Jersey, following the closure of six branches earlier this year.



The closures come as banks have been transitioning to online and mobile services while scaling back their physical channels. Further, Raymond Chun, CEO of TD Bank, stated during the investor presentation in September that the bank could save $2.5 billion annually as it migrates transactions to digital, grows digital sales, enhances front-line productivity and optimizes branch size, hours, location and capacity.



Similarly, The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.s PNC banking subsidiary, PNC Bank, N.A., announced plans to open more than 300 new branches by 2030, increasing its total branch investment to about $2 billion. This expansion adds 100 new branches to the companys earlier plan, unveiled last November, which committed $1.5 billion to open more than 200 new branches and renovate 1,400 existing ones.



The new initiative extends PNCs retail expansion to nearly 20 U.S. markets, including Nashville, Chicago, Sarasota and Winston-Salem. The bank also reaffirmed its plan to renovate 100% of its branch network by 2029 and hire more than 2,000 new employees to support growth and customer service efforts by 2030.
A Des Moines chef celebrated for his role in the citys French dining scene has been arrested on a new sexual abuse charge, the latest in a series of criminal allegations that have already fractured a planned restaurant comeback.

Enosh Kelley, a James Beard Foundation semifinalist for Best Chef Midwest in 2009 and the former chef behind the acclaimed French restaurant Bistro Montage, was taken into custody Tuesday, Nov. 18 on charges of sexual abuse and invasion of privacy. The charges stem from a 2023 incident, according to a news release from the Des Moines Police Department.

An adult victim reported in late October that Kelley allegedly sexually assaulted her in August 2023 while she was asleep and incapacitated by pain medication for a head injury. Police said evidence indicates that photos were taken of the victim during the abuse.

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Tuesdays arrest follows a separate domestic abuse case filed last month and comes one day after chef David Baruthio, also a James Beard Foundation semifinalist, announced he was ending his partnership with Kelley and withdrawing from their planned revival of Bistro Montage at 2701 Ingersoll Ave.

Enosh Kelley stands for a portrait on Oct. 27, 2025, in Des Moines.

The two chefs signed a lease for the Star Lofts space on Oct. 23 and had been preparing to open a new version of the restaurant in 2026.

Baruthio told the Des Moines Register in a statement that following recent developments involving Chef Enosh Kelley he had permanently discontinued the Bistro Montage project. He said the restaurant will continue at the same location under a new French concept and a new name.

Kelley, 55, is awaiting a court appearance in the earlier case in which he's charged with domestic abuse assault causing bodily injury and three counts of contempt for alleged violations of a no-contact order.

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A criminal complaint accuses him of throwing the victim to the ground and striking her multiple times Oct. 3. A no-contact order was issued the following day.

Prosecutors say Kelley later drove near the victims workplace and contacted a witness to ask if they would bend the ear of the victim to change their statements. He also is accused of asking a friend of the victim to pass along threatening messages.

Court records show he has posted multiple bonds since the original charge, including $40,000 tied to two November contempt counts. On Monday, he filed a written plea of not guilty and demanded a speedy trial.

Kelley is scheduled to appear in Polk County District Court on Wednesday, Nov. 19 on the domestic abuse charge.

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Bond has not been set for the new sexual abuse case.

Nick El Hajj is a reporter at the Register. He can be reached at nelhajj@gannett.com. Follow him on X at @nick_el_hajj.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Des Moines chef Enosh Kelley arrested on new sexual abuse charge
TALLAHASSEE  In what could be Floridas record 19th execution this year, Gov. Ron DeSantis on Tuesday signed a death warrant for an inmate convicted in the 1987 murders of two people in a home in Okaloosa County.

Frank Walls, 58, is scheduled to be executed Dec. 18 in the murders of Edward Alger and Ann Peterson. The warrant came as the state prepares to execute Richard Barry Randolph on Thursday and is slated to execute Mark Allen Geralds on Dec. 9.

A 1992 sentencing document posted Tuesday on the Florida Supreme Court website with the death warrant said Walls went to the home of Alger and Peterson in the early morning hours of July 22, 1987, and woke them.

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The document said Walls forced Peterson to bind Algers wrists and ankles. After a struggle, the document said, Walls slashed Algers throat and shot him three times in the head and neck.

It said Walls then struggled with Peterson before fatally shooting her.

Prior to the infliction of that (gunshot) wound, the defendant had informed her of the fate of her boyfriend, Edward, the document said. She was curled up crying as she was told of what had happened to Edward. By the defendants own admission, it was his intent to leave no witnesses. His first shot at her went awry and struck her cheek. Upon being shot the first time, she began crying and screaming, then the defendant fired a second fatal shot into her head.

Ordinarily, DeSantis signing a death warrant triggers a series of efforts by attorneys to halt the execution. That process starts in circuit court, goes to the Florida Supreme Court and typically ends at the U.S. Supreme Court. Challenges also can be filed in federal court.

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The previous modern-era record for executions in a year in Florida was eight in 1984 and 2014. The modern era represents the period since the death penalty was reinstated in 1976, after the U.S. Supreme Court had halted it in 1972.

Attorneys for Randolph, who would be the 17th inmate executed this year, went to the U.S. Supreme Court on Monday to try to halt his scheduled execution. They appealed after the Florida Supreme Court rejected their arguments last week. The appeal remained pending Tuesday evening, according to a court docket.

DeSantis on Oct. 21 signed a death warrant for Randolph, 63, who was convicted in the 1988 murder of Minnie Ruth McCollum at a convenience store she managed in Putnam County.

DeSantis on Nov. 7 signed a death warrant for Geralds, who was convicted in the 1989 murder of a woman in Bay County. Geralds has taken the relatively unusual step of not fighting the execution in court.

By Jim Saunders, News Service of Florida
The Detroit City Council on Nov. 18 upheld the interim suspension of Detroit-based demolition contractor Gayanga Co., which prevents the company from working with the city or receiving contract bids after investigators said they found the company used contaminated dirt to backfill residential properties.

Gayanga's attorney, Adam Clements, of Perkins Law Group, attempted to appeal the suspension, claiming that the company used backfill dirt from public and city-approved sources, and alluded to the Office of the Inspector General abusing its discretion by suspending them without providing specifics of their allegations or allowing them to defend themselves with relevant documents amid the investigation.

Clements said the suspension letter indicates the allegation was received in June and that over the course of the last five months, "no one from Gayanga has been interviewed or asked to come in with information," indicating the inspector general denied them any correspondence.

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But Detroit's Inspector General Kamau Marable said the target of the investigation is interviewed at the end.

Packed into the Committee of the Whole room on the 13th floor of the Coleman A. Young Municipal Center, the hearing was met with pushback from several attendees  some who claimed they performed work as subcontractors and saying that Gayanga owes some of them six figures worth of payments.

All nine of the Detroit City Council's members unanimously upheld the suspension in a Tuesday special session.

Jeffrey Andrews, a subcontractor who works for Valley Transport, said Gayanga owner Brian McKinney owes his company about $700,000 for work done within the last year. Andrews added that McKinney would give excuses whenever he inquired about the money, mainly that he was waiting to receive payment from the city.

Gayanga Co. co founder and company CEO Brian McKinney near a commercial demolition by his company on Detroit's west side on July 9, 2018.

More: Detroit inspector general suspends demolition contractor for contaminated dirt

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More: Detroits ethics system under fire as Mary Sheffield faces first test as mayor-elect

McKinney became the subject of possible city ethics violations questions when information surfaced during the waning days of the recent Detroit mayoral election that he and current City Council President and Mayor-elect Mary Sheffield had dated. Sheffield approved $4.4 million in contracts for Detroit-based Gayanga in 2019, the year her office said she and McKinney were together, according to a Free Press review of council records available online. She approved at least $54.6 million more for the company from 2020-22, according to the Free Press review.

Gayanga received just $417,000 in demolition contracts in 2017; $7 million-$9 million in city contracts each year from 2018-20; $23 million in city contracts in 2021 and $28.5 million in 2022, according to a Free Press review of city demolition data and council records available online. Over those years, the companys Detroit business grew to include an array of construction work.

Sheffield requested guidance from the Detroit Board of Ethics in April of 2019, records show, and was advised she did not have to disclose the relationship because the citys ethics ordinance only requires disclosure of personal relationships when they are familial, spousal, cohabitational, or domestic partnerships.

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And Gayanga also has denied any ethical violations, saying: "All (of) Gayanga's work was awarded via the City of Detroit Construction & Demolition in compliance with the City of Detroit office of contracting and procurement rules and processes."

Ethics questions aside, at Tuesday's council session, subcontractors who have worked with Gayanga said they just want to know when McKinney will pay them.

We were doing little things here and there, and getting paid, then it slowly went to not being paid, Andrews said after Tuesday's council session.

Andrews added that he continues to pay his employees, but many of them are hurting.

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Mike Villegas of G&M Contracting Services, a subcontractor for concrete work, said McKinney made a payment of $50,000 but still owes him $274,000.

Hes always making promises, Im gonna pay, Im gonna pay, Im gonna pay, but never got it, Villegas said. I currently have 48 properties that are open with no sidewalks that I wont pour concrete for because he owes money, which is making it very unsafe for the children. They cant stand at the bus stop because theres no sidewalkits just a shame.

Francisco Cuevas, of A&A Concrete LLC, said he is waiting to be paid $285,000 while showing a list of properties he worked on to replace sidewalks.

Everything is done and I think he already got paid for this. I got about 160 properties, Cuevas said.

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In a statement to the Free Press, Gayanga officials said they plan on "resolving any open disputes" and address them through "appropriate legal channels."

"These disputes are not a reflection of our business practices, but stem from factors outside of our control, including the City's failure to collect required bonds, an accelerated timeline imposed on Gayanga and its subcontractors that was not contractually agreed upon, and increased cost beyond the original bid," according to the statement.

Marable temporarily suspended Gayanga and its owner Brian McKinney in September from doing work in the city after investigators found the contractor was using contaminated dirt  alleging Gayanga used unapproved dirt from a Northland Mall redevelopment in Southfield  to fill residential properties after structures were demolished.

However, Clements questioned the credibility of the allegation, adding that they have proof that the Northland site owner said Gayanga did not do business with them. Gayanga also refuted the inspector generals findings in a September statement to the Free Press, saying the company never participated in the Northland redevelopment project in any capacity.

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We dont seem to have been given any information today in terms of this hearing from a clarification perspective regarding the validity that Gayanga was supposedly procuring backfill from Northland, Clements said at Tuesday's hearing. The nature of the allegations should at least be supported to some extent.

The inspector general previously said the soil in more than 80% of properties Gayanga worked on failed to meet the state's residential standards.

Marables office said it received credible evidence that Gayanga, which has been awarded more than $67 million in contracts, used unapproved dirt in at least 51 residential properties. Test results showed at least 42 sites exceeded state-approved pollution limits for residential properties and 29 sites exceeded the states direct contact safety threshold.

As far as claims of 80% of the test results failing to meet the state's residential standards, we await testing results that illustrate that. It is our understanding that percentage is reflective of a smaller subset of data, after a larger review found no such occurrence, according to a statement from Gayanga.

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In an October letter appealing the suspension, Dickinson Wright PLLC, the law firm which is co-representing Gayanga, said the contractor backfilled from city-approved sources. From March to July 2025, Gayanga used backfill from Iron Horse of Michigan at 41 properties in the city, which is documented by Detroits Demolition Program Backfill Compliance form and load tickets, according to the letter.

Dana Afana is the Detroit city hall reporter for the Free Press. Contact: dafana@freepress.com. Follow her: @DanaAfana.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Detroit upholds suspension of demolition contractor Gayanga Co.
Flags will remain at half-staff across the United States until sunset on Thursday, Nov. 20  after former Vice President Dick Cheney's funeral and interment. Here's what to know about the funeral service.

The 46th vice president of the U.S. from 2001-2009 under President George W. Bush passed away at the age of 84 on Nov. 3, 2025 after a long battle with heart disease. He died of complications of pneumonia and cardiac vascular disease after surviving five heart attacks during his lifetime and a heart transplant.

Born in Lincoln, Nebraska in 1941, Richard Bruce Cheney grew up in Wyoming, where he served as a congressman and later retired. He is survived by his wife, Lynne, and two daughters, Mary and Liz. Liz Cheney is a former GOP lawmaker.

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Here's when and what to know about the funeral of Dick Cheney and how to watch.

Will Dick Cheney have a state funeral?

Cheney is not having a state funeral, which is typically reserved for a sitting president, a president-elect or a former president, although a vice president or other prominent figure could be authorized at the discretion of the current President in office.

A state funeral is a public funeral ceremony with strict protocol and military honors, reserved to honor people of national significance, such as the most recent state funeral for former President Jimmy Carter in January 2025.

State funerals can also include other civilians who have demonstrated distinguished service to the country, such as former Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid in January 2022, former Congressman John Lewis in July 2020, or former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg in September 2020.

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A state funeral in the U.S. includes a period of national mourning and lying in state at the Capital Rotunda, where the casket is displayed publicly and allows mourners to pay their respects, pass by the casket and participate in the ceremony, typically at the Washington National Cathedral. It also includes a ceremonial procession and features significant military involvement with armed forces pallbearers, military bands and a 21-gun salute.

Note, that services and the decision to hold a state funeral is determined by the family of the honoree  upon invitation by the government.

When is Dick Cheney's funeral? What time is funeral service?

Cheney's funeral will take place on Thursday, Nov. 20 at 11 a.m. ET.

Where is Dick Cheney's funeral?

Cheney's funeral service will take place at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC. It is unclear where he will be buried.

Will Trump be at Dick Cheney's funeral? Who will be there?

Trump and his administration have not yet confirmed which officials will attend Cheney's funeral.

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Former President George. W. Bush is set speak at the memorial service and former President Joe Biden is expect to attend Cheney's funeral. However, it is not clear if any other former presidents, such as Bill Clinton or Barack Obama will attend.

It will be by invitation, and only those with invitations issued in advance of the service will be admitted to the Cathedral with security measures in place for staff and guests.

The public is invited to watch the service online.

Where to watch Dick Cheney's funeral on TV, how to stream?

The service will be carried live on FOX Local TV channels and it will be available to stream on the cathedral's website, as well as on USA TODAY's YouTube channel.

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Maria Francis is a Pennsylvania-based journalist with the Mid-Atlantic Connect Team

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Is Trump attending Dick Cheney funeral? When, where, what time to watch




I can't say swimming in the River Walk sounds like my idea of the perfect downtown outing, but it's certainly been hot enough in San Antonio to joke about it before.

However, the intrusive thought of many San Antonians (OK, maybe just me) has actually happened, with a TikTok posted on November 15 showing a woman submerged waist-deep in the strikingly green water as she searched for her lost phone. Captured from a river barge, the video posted by @doskogirl was viewed more than 1 million times and prompted thousands of icked-out comments.

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"I live in San Antonio, I hope she saw a doctor afterwards," one commenter wrote. Another said, "My skin started crawling watching this."

Some might say the color of the water speaks for itself. But in case nobody told you, swimming, bathing, wading - really any type of contact with the water - is prohibited at the San Antonio River by force of a misdemeanor and $500 fine, according to a city ordinance. It's dangerous for a few reasons: one, because the levels of E. Coli in the river are several times higher than what's considered safe, and because certain parts of the river are deep and deadly enough to sweep people away, while others are shallow enough to make a fall extremely painful. Take it from Jackass' Steve-O.

Safety and city codes aside, several commenters were wondering if all that searching was worth it. According to @doskogirl in a comment under the video, despite having her phone called in an attempt to see it better, it never turned up. One commenter said, "There's [nothing] on your phone that's this important."

"I would rather be phoneless than even breathe next to the SATX River walk," another person wrote. "That is absolutely disgusting."

This article originally published at 'Disgusting': Woman's recent dip in San Antonio River has locals' skin crawling.
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When President Donald Trump launched his redistricting war in order to insulate House Republicans majority ahead of a potentially bruising midterm election, it may have looked like a canny partisan move by a political figure known for violating all norms.

But its not looking like such a great idea right now. After moving five Democratic-held seats in Texas into the GOP column, Trumps redistricting campaign has suffered setback after setback as Democrats responded in kind, and some Republican-led states refused Trumps pressure campaign.

Politics: HANG THEM: Trump Boosts Message Calling For Executing Democrats In Congress

California Gov. Gavin Newsom, a Democrat, got voters to approve a ballot initiative that counters Texas gerrymander by adding five Democratic-leaning seats in the state. Efforts to pressure GOP legislatures to redraw maps in states like Indiana and Kansas ran aground while Virginia Democrats announced their own plan to redraw their states map  potentially flipping up to four seats from the GOP. Then a state court in Utah required the state to draw one safe Democratic seat. And on Tuesday, a federal court struck down Texas new map as a racial gerrymander.

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That decision could be stayed or reversed by the Supreme Court, as Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, a Republican, said the state will appeal. But if it isnt, Trumps redistricting war will have been a massive miscalculation. Those five seats will be taken off the board while California will have added five Democratic seats  so long as its map survives a similar legal challenge brought by Republicans. With the one seat gained in Utah and another potential two to four added in Virginia, Democrats will have added at least eight seats compared to the four seats altered by Republicans in Missouri, North Carolina and Ohio.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during a campaign event on Proposition 50, which passed with 64% support on Nov. 4. Ethan Swope via Associated Press

Many people felt that Democrats had a weak hand going into this because they didnt control many states, said Michael Li, an expert on redistricting law at the Brennan Center for Justice, a progressive nonprofit. But they have masterfully played their hand.

It could get even worse. Missouri Democrats have gathered enough signatures to put an initiative before voters that would repeal the new map approved by the GOP-run legislature that eliminated one Democratic-held seat. If the initiative survives legal challenges and gets onto the ballot, it would force the state to use its old map for the 2026 election. That would take another seat off the board for Republicans.

Politics: Epstein Survivor Takes Long Pause When Asked About Trump: 'I Can't Answer That, I'm Sorry'

All of the energy for redistricting now lies on the Democratic side. California voters approving Newsoms Proposition 50 by a vote of 64-35 shows broad support for countering Trumps redistricting push. So does Democrats sweep of races in Virginia after Democrats announced their bid to redraw the states map.

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The biggest note coming out of the election is to be very clear-eyed about the reality that voters are enthused about this, said John Bisognano, president of the National Democratic Redistricting Committee, a Democratic Party-aligned group.

Republicans, meanwhile, are in retreat. Indiana Republicans ended a special session on redistricting called at Trumps behest by Gov. Mike Braun, a Republican, without taking action to redraw two Democratic-held seats on Tuesday.

The only hope now for Republicans is in Florida, where GOP Gov. Ron DeSantis is pushing the GOP-controlled legislature to redraw the states maps. But this may be complicated by the outcome of the Nov. 4 elections that saw Democrats romp to victory across the country.

A demonstrator holds a sign during a rally against redistricting at the Texas Capitol on July 24, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Eric Gay via Associated Press

Democrats strong position heading into the 2026 midterms makes it less appetizing for Republicans to redraw districts. To do so, they would need to move Democratic voters out of the current districts into GOP-held seats. By diluting the Democratic vote in this way, Republicans could wind up weakening their position in their own currently safe seats during an election where Democrats look likely to have a sizable advantage.

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If Im, say, an Indiana Republican and I get a bunch of people from D.C. telling me we know exactly whats going to happen in the election and you need to pass these maps cause we know what theyre going to look like, I wouldnt believe that shit, Bisognano said.

Politics: Republicans Are Already Trying To Block California's Prop 50 Redistricting

That also holds if the Supreme Court does stay the district court opinion striking down Texas map. That map was enacted on the belief that voting trends from 2024, where Latino voters swung hard to Republicans, would continue in 2026 and beyond.

The results from the Nov. 4 elections in New Jersey and Virginia, however, show those trends reversing with Latino voters swinging hard back to the Democratic column. Polls now show Trump and Republicans heavily underwater among Latino voters with many regretting their vote for him in 2024.

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If Republican gains among Latinos revert to pre-2024 levels, or further back to 2016 levels, the Texas map would likely not net the full five seats Trump hoped to secure.

They made a big bet that the past was prologue, Li said. But if it turns out that the past was just the past and not the future, then they may have made a very bad bet.

Political Updates

Read the original on HuffPost
Nov. 19Nov. 13

Randall Arthur Rasmussen, 56, no address given, carrying a concealed knife, disorderly conduct, guilty pleas, 28 days jail, $443 court costs.

Nov. 14

Eric Chenault Covington, 41, 1214 Belknap St., D, disorderly conduct, amended to ordinance violation disorderly conduct, guilty plea, $200.50 fine.

Nov. 17

Ryan Robert Blacketter, 37, 632 Grand Ave., possession of narcotic drugs, no contest plea, 48 days jail, 18 months probation, $518 court costs; possess drug paraphernalia, three counts disorderly conduct, two counts repeater bail jumping, dismissed but considered during sentencing.

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Jonah Anthony Gillund, 22, Hermantown, domestic disorderly conduct, domestic battery, no contest pleas, 10 days jail with work release, one year probation, $2,757.60 restitution, fine and court costs, no contact with victim or victim's residence, work toward a GED; additional count domestic disorderly conduct, dismissed.

Lakota Shey Norton, 20, Duluth, criminal damage to property, battery, no contest pleas, one year probation, restitution to be determined, $996 court costs, eligible to be expunged; two counts disorderly conduct, dismissed but considered during sentencing.

Joseph Allen Porter, 42, no address given, take and drive vehicle without consent-abandon vehicle, intimidate victim/dissuade reporting, resisting or obstructing an officer, no contest pleas, five months jail, $526 fine and court costs; criminal trespass to dwelling, disorderly conduct, dismissed but considered during sentencing.

Cody John Sanda, 29, 1730 W. Snell Road, vehicle operator flee/elude officer, take and drive vehicle without consent, no contest pleas, three years state prison and three years extended supervision, $518 court costs, no contact with victims.

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Tracy Lee Shenett, 64, Proctor, Minnesota, possession of methamphetamine, probation revoked, 10 months jail, $518 court costs.

Sarina Marie Stone, 34, Solon Springs, possession of methamphetamine, guilty plea, one year state prison and two years extended supervision stayed, three years of probation, $638.25 fine.

Leonard Dion Tillman, 46, Duluth, second-offense within three years operate without valid license, guilty plea, $579 fine and court costs; additional count second-offense within three years operate without valid license, dismissed.

Kaiden Trai-Ezra Willis, 23, Cloquet, Minnesota, take and drive vehicle without consent, no contest plea, four days jail, two years probation, $1,214 restitution and fine.

The Superior Telegram publishes court records as part of its obligation to serve as a keeper of the local historical record. All items are public records submitted by the courthouse in Superior. Individual requests for items to be withheld will not be granted.
Officials in eastern Libya expressed concern, calling the move an entirely unacceptable breach of diplomatic protocol.

Libyas eastern authorities have halted their collaboration with the United Nations Support Mission in Libya (UNSMIL) following Mondays announcement of a new international agreement involving Qatar and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

The deal, which provides funding to foster political dialogue and boost civic engagement, was welcomed by UNSMIL but met with sharp backlash from the eastern administration.

An 'entirely unacceptable' disruption of diplomatic protocol

Officials based in eastern Libya voiced concern that the agreement was made without consulting Libyan authorities and characterized it as an entirely unacceptable move that breaks diplomatic protocol. They argued that funding political activities within Libya without local approval constitutes a serious violation of the principles of international neutrality expected of UN missions.

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In their official statement, eastern officials demanded a thorough investigation and insisted they would not resume any dealings with UNSMIL until the agreement is formally rescinded and fully explained. The statement also stressed that only purely Libyan-led solutions, free from external funding or interference, would be considered legitimate going forward.

Migrants, whose boats sank in the sea and who were rescued by the Libyan Coast Guards at the Mediterranean Sea, arrive on a boat at the port, in Garaboli, Libya June 8, 2023. (credit: REUTERS/AYMAN AL-SAHILI)

UNSMIL responded Tuesday that its funding comes from both assessed contributions from all UN member states and voluntary donations for specific programs, with rigorous oversight mechanisms to ensure transparency and impartiality. The mission stressed that donor countries have no influence over the direction or outcomes of Libyas political process.
This story was originally published by Chalkbeat. Sign up for their newsletters at ckbe.at/newsletters.

Its anything but business as usual in the Indiana statehouse.

The beginning of the 2026 legislative session has been dominated by the will-they, wont-they question of redistricting, which has drawn national attention and left little time for lawmakers and advocacy groups to outline their plans for new legislation  including on education.

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I dont know about you, but Ive had an interesting fall, said House Speaker Todd Huston in Organization Day remarks focused on affordability. My 2025 bingo card has been turned upside down.

But while legislative leaders havent yet detailed their education priorities for 2026, they have a list of unfinished business to tackle when it comes to schools, including a multiyear deregulation effort and a possible overhaul of the governance of Indianapolis Public Schools.

The upcoming session is a short session ending in March, which means lawmakers wont have to pass a budget or debate education funding. But past short sessions have brought big changes to education, like the states third grade retention requirements and classroom cell phone ban  both passed in the 2024 short session.

This years big changes remain to be seen. Lawmakers begin filing bills now through their January deadlines. And advocacy groups like the Indiana State Teachers Association and the Chamber of Commerce, along with Gov. Mike Braun, all typically release their legislative priorities in January.

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One idea thats not returning is a 2024 proposal to expand Education Scholarship Accounts  a school choice fund for students with disabilities  to all students. Sen. Ryan Mishler said he is not planning to resurrect this idea because of the 2025 law to make school vouchers universal beginning next summer.

Heres what we can expect in 2026.

A school deregulation effort continues

In the 2025 session, House Education chair Bob Behning began what he said was a multiyear effort to overhaul Title 20, Indianas education code. Behning confirmed to Chalkbeat that this process will continue in 2026.

This years HEA 1002 contained dozens of provisions repealing both expired and existing statutes within Title 20. Among the more notable changes was the end of a requirement that the Indiana Secretary of Education have education and leadership experience.

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Other changes removed the requirement that school districts provide a noncharter option for students if they grant a charter and reduced the notice schools must provide if they eliminate transportation.

And a last-minute amendment to that bill dropped requirements that teachers must train in restorative justice, cultural competency, and social emotional support to manage their classrooms effectively.

Behning did not specify which regulations might be considered next.

The future of Indianapolis schools to be determined

In the 2025 legislative session, Indiana lawmakers created the Indianapolis Local Education Alliance to consider how Indianapolis Public Schools and charter schools in Marion County might share transportation and facilities. Now, their homework is due back to lawmakers.

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Once the organizations recommendations are finalized, they are to be submitted to the legislature, which may codify them into laws affecting both charter and traditional public schools in Indianapolis.

The wide-ranging work of the group has considered not just sharing buildings and bus routes, but could also consider a new structure of governance for the school district and the need for a new system of rating schools that could affect which schools are ultimately closed.

A draft of those recommendations is expected Wednesday, with final recommendations due Dec. 31.

Less focus on early education, more on career education

In remarks at a legislative preview event with the Indiana Chamber of Commerce, House Minority Leader Phil GiaQuinta said his caucus would again call for the state to invest in a robust preschool program.

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Republican leaders again said no.

I guess Im so old that I remember when having a neighbor, family member, or friend watch your kid for day care was okay, and maybe I missed the dramatic societal consequences of that, Huston said. You say now we have to create this colossal structure, and that structure comes with all these costs and constrained supply, and means it just makes the user experience [cost] even more. I think we gotta find the appropriate balance.

In recent years, lawmakers have taken incremental steps to reduce regulation in the hope of making it easier for operators to run child care centers, and to entice businesses to offer child care to their employees.

But this year has brought additional challenges for families and childcare providers, including a freeze on new child care vouchers until 2027, cuts to reimbursement rates, and uncertainty over federal funding that supports different programs.

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Senate Minority Leader Shelli Yoder said child care providers face difficulties hiring and retaining staff, and that one solution would be to help workers develop new skills and earn more money. But Senate President Pro Tempore Rodric Bray and Huston said professionalization would also lead to higher costs for families.

The Republican leaders also touted the success of past years efforts to establish more career and technical education and apprenticeship programs for Indiana high school students to earn workplace experience. Yoder said Indiana students need to keep learning critical thinking skills alongside workplace skills, especially in the context of AI.

Both houses of the Indiana General Assembly officially reconvene on Jan. 5, but Huston told his members to keep the first two weeks of December open for potential business.

Aleksandra Appleton covers Indiana education policy and writes about K-12 schools across the state. Chalkbeat is a nonprofit news organization covering public education. Contact her at aappleton@chalkbeat.org.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: What education issues will Indiana lawmakers consider in 2026?
Emirates Airlines has officially terminated all scheduled flights to Tel Aviv, Israel, marking a definitive end to service on a route the Dubai-based carrier once planned to restore in 2026. The decision represents a complete withdrawal from the Israeli market and underscores how ongoing geopolitical tensions are fundamentally reshaping aviation connectivity across the Middle East.

From Launch to Complete Withdrawal

Emirates launched its Tel Aviv service in June 2022, marking its first entry into the Israeli market following the Abraham Accords that normalized relations between Israel and the UAE. The route experienced remarkable initial success, with Emirates beginning with one daily flight using the Boeing 777-300ER before expanding to three daily flights by 2023 due to strong demand.

According to the Dubai Department of Economy & Tourism, more than 300,000 Israelis visited the UAE in the two years following the pandemic, reflecting the significant pent-up demand for travel between the two nations. The route provided vital connectivity linking Tel Aviv to Dubai's global hub network, offering passengers seamless connections to destinations across Southeast Asia, Australia, and the broader Indian Ocean region.

Suspension Turns Permanent

Image Credit: Depositphotos

Emirates initially suspended its Tel Aviv flights on October 12, 2023, due to safety concerns following the outbreak of conflict on October 7. The airline extended the suspension multiple times through October 26, November 14, and finally until November 30, 2023, before announcing an indefinite suspension.

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The airline had planned to resume the route in April 2026 with a Boeing 777-200LR configured with 38 business-class seats and 264 economy seats. However, this week's schedule updates revealed that all Tel Aviv flights have now been removed entirely, confirming Emirates' complete exit from the Israeli market.

"Customers affected by the suspension should contact their booking agents for alternatives, refunds, cancellations or for rebooking their flight itineraries," Emirates stated in its most recent communications regarding the route.

Industry-Wide Impact on Israel Aviation

Emirates' withdrawal reflects a broader crisis facing Israel's aviation sector. According to aviation analytics provider Cirium, airlines have scheduled 10.8% fewer flights to Israel compared to 2023, with this year seeing a further 11.8% decline in flights compared to 2024. The cumulative effect has devastated international connectivity to and from Israel.

Major international carriers that have suspended or permanently cancelled Israeli services include American Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Virgin Atlantic, Korean Air, Cathay Pacific, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, KLM, Air France, and the entire Lufthansa Group. Many of these suspensions extend well into 2025, with some carriers pushing resumption dates to late 2025 or removing Israel from booking systems entirely.

flydubai Maintains Operations

While Emirates has completely withdrawn, its sister airline flydubai continues to operate an extensive Tel Aviv schedule, highlighting the different operational approaches within the Emirates Group. Flydubai began service in 2020 with two daily flights and steadily expanded as diplomatic ties strengthened between the UAE and Israel.

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By late 2023, flydubai had reached eight daily flights, and current schedules show up to ten daily rotationsthe highest frequency since the route launched. The carrier uses a mix of Boeing 737-800, 737 MAX 8, and 737 MAX 9 aircraft, with plans to transition to only the 737-800 and 737 MAX 8 from April 2026.

Remarkably, flydubai has scheduled 33.7% more flights this year compared to 2024 and more than 50% more than in 2023. This growth reflects both strong point-to-point demand and Dubai's continued role as a connecting hub for Israeli travelers, even amid the broader aviation disruption.

Alternative UAE Connectivity

Despite Emirates' withdrawal, travelers still have multiple options for UAE-Israel connections. Etihad Airways operates four daily flights from Abu Dhabi to Tel Aviv and plans to increase this to five daily departures next month, though the carrier has faced its own operational disruptions due to regional tensions.

Additionally, several Israeli carriers, including El Al, Arkia, and Israir, continue to serve various international markets, though their operations have been significantly impacted by airspace closures and security concerns.

Broader Regional Aviation Crisis

Emirates' Tel Aviv withdrawal is part of a much larger disruption affecting Middle Eastern aviation. The airline has also suspended flights to multiple regional destinations, including Amman, Beirut, Tehran, Baghdad, and Basra, due to ongoing security concerns and airspace restrictions.

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The aviation sector in Israel continues to feel the effects of security concerns and intermittent airspace closures, with frequent disruptions affecting both passenger and cargo operations. These operational challenges, combined with reduced international airline service, have significantly impacted Israel's connectivity to global markets.

Economic and Strategic Implications

The loss of Emirates service represents more than just reduced flight options, it removes a critical link between Israel and one of the world's most important aviation hubs. Emirates' extensive global network had provided Israeli travelers with convenient access to destinations across Asia, Australia, and Africa that are now more difficult to reach.

For Dubai, the loss of Israeli traffic on Emirates flights may be partially offset by flydubai's continued expansion, but it represents a retreat from the premium end of the market that Emirates typically serves. The decision also signals the challenges facing the Abraham Accords' vision of normalized business and tourism relations in the current security environment.

Looking Ahead

Emirates' permanent withdrawal from Tel Aviv represents a significant shift in Middle Eastern aviation geography. While flydubai's continued operations maintain some UAE-Israel connectivity, the loss of Emirates' premium service and global network reach marks a substantial reduction in travel options between the two countries.

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The broader question for the aviation industry is whether this represents a temporary adjustment to current geopolitical realities or a longer-term restructuring of Middle Eastern air connectivity. With numerous major airlines showing no signs of resuming Israeli service and extending suspensions well into 2025, the current disruption appears likely to persist for an extended period.

For travelers, the message is clear: Middle Eastern aviation continues to be significantly impacted by regional tensions, and passengers should expect continued volatility in route availability and schedule reliability across the region. Emirates' decision to permanently end Tel Aviv service rather than continue indefinite suspensions suggests the airline sees little prospect for near-term improvement in operating conditions.
A federal bankruptcy court in Delaware cleared the path for the final liquidation of defunct Yellow Corp.s estate on Monday. The plan outlines the distribution of as much as $700 million to remaining creditors, including former employees. The Monday order, however, could be challenged on appeal by Yellows largest equity holder, MFN Partners.

Boston hedge fund MFN amassed a 42.5% equity stake in the former less-than-truckload carrier in the days leading up to its July 30, 2023 shutdown. The firm bet that proceeds raised from the sale of Yellows 325 terminals and other assets would more than cover its debts.

MFN and its affiliate, Mobile Street, objected to the proposed bankruptcy plan, arguing that the governing committee, which was composed of creditors with inherent conflicts of interest, would inevitably prioritize their own financial outcomes. MFN also put forward a scenario asserting recoveries to unsecured creditors would be higher in a Chapter 7 liquidation.

Despite their opposition, a single voting class of creditors recently approved the plan.

(The plans liquidating trust board of managers includes Central States Pension Funds and New York State Teamsters Pension and Health Funds.)

Judge Craig Goldblatt overruled MFNs objections on Monday and entered an order to confirm the final Chapter 11 plan. He said that he doesnt believe the plan was proposed in bad faith and that by his calculations, creditors wouldnt see greater recoveries in a Chapter 7.

He ruled that the agreement contains standard and appropriate protections regarding interested party transactions and other conflicts of interest. He also noted that converting the bankruptcy would allow other claimants to come forward and that incremental administrative and legal costs would outweigh any benefit of conversion. (The estate had incurred $235 million in legal and professional fees through the end of September.)

Goldblatt acknowledged that some assumptions in the analysis provided by the debtors liquidation expert  which projects a high-teen percentage recovery for unsecured creditors  were problematic. However, he does not believe that creditors here would be better served by a conversion of this case to a Chapter 7.

He also said that the value of the estates distributable value has declined from a high end of $900 million a year ago to $700 million currently, warning that extending the process has a way of consuming value. (Goldblatt clarified that some of this decline was likely due to lower-than-anticipated asset sale values, not solely to accumulating fees.)
Washington  The House on Wednesday formally sent to the Senate a bill that would force the Justice Department to release files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, the final procedural move before the legislation can be sent to President Trump for his signature.

After the House passed the measure in a 427-1 vote on Tuesday, the Senate approved the bill unanimously before it could even be formally transmitted from the lower chamber. With the transmission of the bill Wednesday morning, the bill is formally considered passed, and now heads to the president's desk for his signature.

Mr. Trump, who had initially expressed opposition to the release of the files, is expected to sign the measure into law, after he changed his tune Sunday and urged Republicans to vote in favor of the bill.

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With his signature, the Justice Department, FBI and U.S. attorney's offices would be forced to release their files related to Epstein, his co-conspirator Ghislaine Maxwell and other entities connected to them within 30 days. Survivors' personal information and other sensitive material can be withheld or redacted with explanations to Congress.

A long path to passage

The final hurdles for the bill come months after the effort began. After the Justice Department issued the findings of an internal review that found no "client list" or evidence that Epstein had blackmailed prominent figures in July, interest in the files has swelled, sparking widespread calls for greater transparency from the Trump administration.

Reps. Thomas Massie, a Kentucky Republican, and Rep. Ro Khanna, a California Democrat, introduced legislation in July that would require the Justice Department to release the Epstein files within 30 days. And when Congress returned from recess in September, Massie filed a discharge petition to force a vote on the bill, circumventing GOP leadership. The petition, which required 218 signatures, picked up support from all Democrats and four Republicans, but the final signature needed remained out of reach as Rep. Adelita Grijalva's swearing in was delayed during the government shutdown.

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Meanwhile, Republican leaders had pushed back on the discharge petition and underlying legislation, warning against the possible release of sensitive information while touting work from congressional committees to look into the Epstein files. But public pressure on lawmakers to force the release of the documents remained high.

Last week, Grijalva was sworn in and became the final signature needed on the discharge petition and force a vote. On Wednesday, after Mr. Trump gave his blessing, the House voted almost unanimously in favor of the measure.

The Senate quickly followed suit, unanimously agreeing to deem the bill passed once it arrived from the House.

A GOP split

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The effort, and the Epstein issue more broadly, often divided Republicans, who faced conflicting pressure from constituents and the administration.

Last week, the president lashed out at Republicans who pushed to release the files, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a long-time supporter. Mr. Trump reversed his endorsement of Greene, calling her a "traitor," after she called his prior opposition to releasing the files a "huge miscalculation."

As the bill approached passage on Tuesday, Khanna spoke of the "extraordinary political consequences" suffered by Massie and Greene, along with other Republicans who supported the measure. And Greene lamented that the fight over the disclosure of the Epstein files had "ripped MAGA apart."

The issue also seemed to divide GOP leaders. Johnson led the charge against it in Congress. On Tuesday, even as he expressed concerns about the bill, the speaker voted to move it forward, saying that he expected the Senate to amend it and insisting that Senate Majority Leader John Thune do so. Thune did not, and the bill sailed through the Senate unanimously.

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Thune acknowledged Johnson's concerns to reporters ahead of the vote, saying, "I think there are some things he'd like to change, but you got a 427 to 1 vote, it's probably not likely to happen." Johnson told reporters afterward, when asked whether he was frustrated with Thune, that "I'm frustrated with the process, but I trust Leader Thune."

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Jena-Lisa Jones said she voted for President Donald Trump because she hoped he would release the governments files on deceased sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein, who sexually abused her. But now she says Trump owes her and other survivors an apology.

On Tuesday, the House and Senate passed a resolution demanding that the Department of Justice release its files on Epstein, who in 2008 accepted a widely criticized non-prosecution agreement with the federal government. Under the agreement, Epstein pleaded guilty on state charges in Florida to soliciting a minor. Before the deal was reached, a grand jury heard testimony that Epstein had raped girls as young as 14. The deal was approved by then-U.S. Attorney Alex Acosta, whom Trump later appointed Secretary of Labor in 2017.

Trump, who was friends with Epstein for years, initially opposed the bill, but reversed course after it became clear the measure would pass the House. Notably, Trump can release the files without Congress, but he has so far refused to do so.

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On Tuesdays edition of The Source on CNN, Kaitlan Collins hosted Reps. Ro Khanna (D-CA) and Thomas Massie (R-KY), who introduced the bill. Collins also welcomed three survivors of Epsteins, including Jones.

At one point, Khanna said Trump, who is expected to sign the bill on Wednesday, should have Epsteins survivors present. Jones agreed, stating:

He owes us that much. He owes us an apology for sure. And I think that would be one way of showing some remorse for this drawn-out process that didnt need to be.

Collins followed up by noting that Jones voted for Trump.

Jones replied:

Yeah. I mean, he really ran his campaign on this. This is why I voted for him. This release of these files has been so important to me for so long that when he ran with that, I really had some hope that someone was gonna do something about it, no matter what the motive was behind it, that he was gonna release them in solidarity with us. But then he completely flipped. And, I mean, he was even working with our lawyers and stuff. So, it was really hard to go from helping us to completely turning on us, and then calling it a Democratic hoax when he knew it wasnt. So, he thought it was just a political play. And I think that was wrong. And I think that added fuel to the fire against both parties and where it didnt need to be.

Last week, the House Oversight Committee released thousands of emails to and from Epstein. In one email, Epstein said Trump knew about the girls. The email did not elaborate.

In July, Deputy Attorney General Todd Blanche, who was previously Trumps personal attorney, interviewed Epstein associate Ghislaine Maxwell, who in 2021, was sentenced to 20 years in prison for child sex trafficking. Maxwell told Blanche that she had never witnessed Trump engaging in illegal activity. After the interview, the Department of Justice transferred Maxwell to a lower security facility, where she receives custom meals and is allowed to play with dogs.

Trump has refused to rule out a pardon for Maxwell.

Watch above via CNN.

The post Epstein Survivor Reveals She Voted for Trump  But Now Says He Owes Us an Apology first appeared on Mediaite.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan on Wednesday called on Kiev and Moscow to resume negotiations in his country, hours after Russia launched heavy strikes on western Ukraine.

Erdogan said the talks are essential given the "exhausting impact of the war on both sides," at a joint press conference with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Ankara.

Zelensky backed Erdogan's call, saying: "We trust the strength of Turkish diplomacy and its ability to be understood in Moscow."

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He said that Ukraine aims to restart prisoner exchanges with Russia by the end of the year.

Ukraine recently said preparations were being made for a possible exchange involving 1,200 Ukrainian prisoners, though Moscow has not confirmed this.

Zelensky stated he came to Turkey to discuss reviving peace talks with Russia, though the Kremlin said no Russian representatives were present.

Turkey has previously hosted negotiations. Erdogan maintains close ties with Vladimir Putin.

Russia launched one of its heaviest attacks yet on western Ukraine, firing more than 470 drones and 48 missiles overnight.

At least 25 people died when a Russian air attack devastated two housing blocks in the western city of Ternopil. At least 73 people were injured, including 16 children, officials said.

Ukraine has been defending itself against Russias invasion for more than three and a half years.
Perus Social Security System EsSalud has formally secured the construction licence for the Torre Trecca outpatient treatment facility, set to be rebuilt and operated by healthcare provider Auna.

Auna will operate the high-rise centre under an existing publicprivate partnership (PPP), on behalf of EsSalud.

Torre Trecca is anticipated to cater to over six million individuals in Lima insured by EsSalud, facilitating more than three million visits each year.

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The delivery of the licence was commemorated at an event that included the attendance of EsSalud executive president Segundo Acho Mego, ProInversion executive director Luis Del Carpio, Auna vice-chairman Luis Felipe Pinillos, and Jesus Maria district mayor Jesus Galvez.

ProInversion is a Peruvian government agency and aims to promote private investment.

Initially in 2010, Auna entered the PPP with EsSalud to reconstruct and manage Torre Trecca. The official issuance of the construction licence marks a crucial milestone in upgrading this healthcare establishment.

The revised PPP contract is anticipated to gain final approval by the end of this year, with construction scheduled to commence in 2026.

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Auna aims to enhance access to quality healthcare services for the people of Lima. This milestone underscores the advancements made through the partnership between EsSalud and ProInversion.

Founded in 1989, Auna is a healthcare platform operating in Colombia, Mexico, and Peru, and focuses on complex illnesses and preventative measures that incur significant healthcare costs.

Its network consisted of 31 healthcare facilities with a total of 2,333 beds, as of 30 June 2025.

In March 2025, Auna expanded its oncology services in Mexico through a five-year exclusive agreement with Opcion Oncologia, an oncology ambulatory clinic based in Monterrey.

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"EsSalud secures licence for Torre Trecca treatment centre in Peru" was originally created and published by Hospital Management, a GlobalData owned brand.




The European Commission on Wednesday unveiled plans for an emergency system to speed up the cross-border movement of troops and military equipment in response to growing security threats from Russia.

"The fast movement of Europe's militaries is essential for Europe's defence," said EU foreign affairs chief Kaja Kallas.

"Defence readiness fundamentally depends on whether you can get your tanks and troops to where you need them, when you need them," she said.

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"Europe is facing unprecedented security threats. The case for better military mobility couldn't be clearer."

Under the plans, military transport operations are to have priority access to transport networks, infrastructure and related services across the European Union during a crisis.

They also foresee exemptions from rules on drivers' working hours, national notification requirements and environmental or noise regulations. Rail vehicles could be used outside their normally approved areas of operation.

European deterrence cannot rely on goodwill, proposal says

"In crises, when time is crucial to any response, Europe cannot afford to react slowly," the proposal states.

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"In such situations we cannot rely on ad-hoc coordination and national goodwill. We must have a clear plan and a fast lane prepared for our military forces. Without it, our deterrence remains theoretical."

EU ministers and the European Parliament will scrutinize and discuss the proposal. If approved, the system could be activated within 48 hours in an emergency.

The proposal refers to it as the European Military Mobility Enhanced Response System (EMERS) which comes in addition to numerous other initiatives for facilitating cross-border military transports.

These approaches include reducing bureaucratic hurdles and expanding transport infrastructure. Currently, many important road and railway bridges as well as numerous ports and airports are unsuitable for large and heavy military transports.

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The EMERS proposal comes amid intelligence assessments suggesting Russia may be militarily capable of launching another war by 2030.

Kallas previously warned that Russia could prepare for an attack on an EU country in the years to come.

A commission document also published on Wednesday states that "the Russian aggression against Ukraine demonstrates every day how important it is to move military aid and supply as quickly and smoothly as possible."

Previous efforts are considered insufficient

The EU's efforts to significantly improve military mobility have recently faced repeated criticism.

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At the beginning of the year, a report by the European Court of Auditors (ECA) concluded that billions of euros in investments in projects for the faster deployment of armed forces within Europe were not having the desired effect.

According to the ECA, the infrastructure projects funded were selected on a case-by-case basis rather than by prioritizing the overall most urgent needs.

In 2022, the commission had announced that it would provide 1.7 billion ($1.97 billion) in funding for militarily usable infrastructure projects.

These included the expansion of roads and railway lines. The funds available for this purpose were already exhausted by the end of 2023, even though they were earmarked until 2027. The ECA also criticized the funding gap.

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For the next long-term EU budget, the commission has proposed a tenfold increase in the budget for military mobility.

A total of 17.65 billion is to be made available for investments in transport infrastructure that can be used for military purposes.
The European Commission will on Wednesday propose an emergency system to speed up the cross-border movement of troops and military equipment in response to growing security threats from Russia, according to information obtained by dpa.

The plan would give military transport operations priority access to transport networks, infrastructure and related services across the European Union during a crisis.

It would also allow exemptions from rules on drivers' working hours, national notification requirements and environmental or noise regulations. Rail vehicles could be used outside their normally approved areas of operation.

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A working document states that in crises where reaction time is critical, Europe cannot afford to act slowly. Situations requiring rapid, large-scale military deployment often arise without warning, it adds, and cannot rely on ad-hoc coordination or the goodwill of individual member states.

A clear plan and guaranteed priority for armed forces are needed to give deterrence real weight.

After presentation, the proposal will go to EU ministers and the European Parliament for discussion. If approved, the system could be activated within 48 hours in an emergency.

The working documents refer to it as the European Military Mobility Enhanced Response System (EMERS).

The initiative comes amid intelligence assessments suggesting Russia may be militarily capable of launching another war by 2030. "Russia has no capacity to launch an attack on the EU today, but it could prepare itself in the years to come," EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned in October.
BRUSSELS (AP)  The European Union rolled out a new defense package on Wednesday to allow tanks and troops to deploy more rapidly across the many borders of the 27-nation bloc in the event of a conflict, as concern mounts that Russia is already probing its defenses.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the EU has watched warily as a full-scale war raged just across its eastern border. That nervousness has only increased in recent months, as the EU has scrambled to deal with mysterious drone incursions linked to Russia.

Europes foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, said that spending on defense now might avert war.

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Weakness invites them to make their move, she said, speaking of Russia. She said if the EU increases its defensive capabilities and readiness, then Russia will not attack because we are not weak.

The new military mobility proposal by the EUs executive branch, the European Commission, would invest 17.65 billion euro ($20.4 billion) into 500 locations that have been identified as choke points, such as bridges, ports and tunnels currently unable to handle heavy traffic and vehicles.

During conflict or disaster, emergency protocols would snap in place. Armed forces would be given priority access to infrastructure like airports, roads and railways during emergencies, and current regulations in some areas such as transporting dangerous goods would be scrapped for militaries or private defense companies.

The defense package underscored a sea change in geopolitics spurred on by U.S. President Donald Trump, who has called into question 80 years of cooperation based on the understanding that the U.S. would help protect European nations following World War II.

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The EU arose out of the determination to avoid a repetition of the horrors of the two world wars by binding the countries of Europe into closer economic and political cooperation. However, since the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine, the bloc has increasingly focused on defense and security.

EU Defense Commissioner Andrius Kubilius said European intelligence services have warned that Russia could attack the EU in the next three or four years, or test NATOs Article 5 guarantee that says an attack against one member is an attack against all.

Resilient infrastructure. Joint action. Safer Europe. Todays Military Mobility Package will strengthen Europes readiness and ability to move quickly in crisis," European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen posted on X after Wednesday's announcement.

Military Schengen

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One of the biggest challenges facing the push for defense integration is updating transport systems so that they operate seamlessly across borders, in terms of languages and protocols used at ports and train stations. Some railway gauges, for example, are mismatched, making it difficult to send trains carrying armored vehicles from western Europe to the eastern flank bordering Russia, Belarus and Ukraine.

Kubilius said that eventually it aims to forge a military Schengen, a reference to Europes ID-check-free travel zone, which is made up of 25 EU member countries, plus Liechtenstein, Iceland, Norway and Switzerland.

He said that frontier countries like Estonia, Latvia, and Finland on the eastern flank require deeper infrastructure connections to continental countries like France and Germany.

This is how we turn industrial strength into operational readiness  and make sure Europe can move as one, with the speed and coordination of our security demands, Kubilius said.

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The new plan would be for each EU nation to send a representative to the Military Mobility Transport Group to streamline military deployments in times of peace, emergencies and conflict.

Auditors had warned in February that the EUs military mobility was too small and poorly managed to be effective.

Boosting domestic production

The commission also announced a Defense Industry Transformation Roadmap which aims to simplify and unify regulations on the EU's defense industry, and corral investment into domestic production of weapons, vehicles, satellites, shells and bullets.

Both the package and the road map follow the Commission's  Readiness 2030  security strategy built around the threat of Russian aggression. The commission estimates that EU defense spending this year will total around 392 billion euros ($457 billion), almost double the amount of four years ago, before Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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It believes that some 3.4 trillion euros ($4 trillion) will probably be spent on defense over the next decade. To help, it intends to propose boosting the EUs long-term budget for defense and space to 131 billion euros ($153 billion).

EU member countries are being urged to buy much of their military equipment within the bloc, working mostly with European suppliers  in some cases with EU help to cut prices and speed up orders. Under the roadmap, EU nations should only purchase equipment from abroad when costs, performance or supply delays make it preferable.

The Trump administration has signaled it is prioritizing U.S. security on its own domestic borders and in Asia. It has told Europeans that they must fend for themselves and Ukraine in the future.
Chinese media have reported that fraudsters were able to use SIM cards smuggled out of China in telecom scams despite a rule that anyone buying the cards must register their names. Social media users have shared a clipped video falsely claiming it showed a Chinese official dodging a reporter's question on how scammers were able to circumvent the registration requirement. The full footage shows he was actually responding to a question about the arrest of Chinese scammers in the Philippines.

"In a press conference of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, a foreign journalist asks the spokesperson: How does Communist China explain that, under a real-name registration system, telecom fraudsters are still able to use SIM cards for a long time?" reads part of the simplified Chinese X post shared November 6, 2025.

The post includes a 59-second video showing China's foreign ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun flipping through papers before replying in Mandarin, "I am not familiar with what you mentioned. On fighting telecom fraud, China's position is consistent and clear."

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China has required mobile phone SIM card buyers to register since 2010 to prevent spam and fraud (archived here and here).

Screenshot of the false X video captured on November 14, 2025, with a red X added by AFP

The Bangkok Post and Taiwanese broadcaster TVBS reported on November 9 that a Chinese man was arrested on the Cambodia-Thailand border for carrying more than 1,000 SIM cards that he intended to bring to the town of Myawaddy in Myanmar (archived here and here).

Chinese outlets -- Yicai and the Economic Observer -- reported in January 2025 that scammers from telecom fraud compounds illegally obtained SIM cards from China (archived here and here). In the same month, China's Minister of Public Security Wang Xiaohong said authorities would intercept fraudulent calls and strictly control the source of SIM cards, according to Xinhua (archived here and here).

Cyberscam hubs have proliferated across Southeast Asia in recent years, with an AFP investigation revealing Chinese workers in Myanmar swindling unsuspecting internet users with romance and business cons worth tens of billions of dollars annually (archived link).

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Similar claims were shared elsewhere on X and Reddit, with social media users believing that the foreign ministry's purported response implies that the Chinese government supplies SIM cards to scam parks.

One commented in simplified Chinese, "A large number of unregistered SIM cards were tacitly allowed, even supported, by the Chinese Communist Party to be sent out. It's already fortunate that he didn't publicly admit the truth -- that we are essentially supporting Southeast Asia's telecom fraud industry."

Another said: "Yes, their stance has indeed been consistent because telecom fraud is essentially their tertiary industry."

But the video was clipped and the exchange is fabricated.

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A keyword search on YouTube led to the original video uploaded by Hong Kong broadcaster TVB with a title in simplified Chinese, "Full Replay: January 9 Ministry of Foreign Affairs regular press conference" (archived link).

Screenshot comparison of the false X video (L) and the original YouTube video (R)

At the 3:24 timestamp, an AFP reporter asked, "The Philippines has said that around 400 foreign nationals, many of whom were Chinese, were arrested yesterday in a large-scale raid on a suspected online scam farm in Manila. Can the foreign ministry comment on this and provide any more details? (archived link)"

Guo remained silent for almost a minute before replying with the remarks in the false post.

Official transcript of the foreign ministry's press conference on the day shows the same exchange, and no reference was made to the real-time registration of SIM cards (archived link).

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The raid in the Philippine capital followed President Ferdinand Marcos's announcement in July 2024 to ban online gaming operators (Pogo) by the end of the year that Manila says have been used as cover by organised crime groups (archived link).

The Bureau of Immigration said in a statement on January 8 it had been monitoring the "Pogo-like activities" of the raided company "for some time" (archived link).

AFP has previously debunked misinformation about scam parks.
Does a real photo show U.S. President Donald Trump walking past a U.S. flag that appears to touch the ground? Yes, that is an authentic photo: Its origin can be traced to a reputable news agency. A White House spokesperson did not deny the photo's authenticity, either, but stated that the image doesn't show the flag "fallen to the ground". Answering Lead Stories questions, a White House spokesperson said the flag was "lowered into a special container out of an abundance of caution" due to the weather conditions at the time of Marine One landing.

The image appeared in a post (archived here) on Reddit where it was published on November 17, 2025, under the following caption:

President Trump walking past the flag at the Whitehouse which has fallen to the ground.

This is what the picture looked like on Reddit at the time of writing:

image (77).png

(Source: Lead Stories screenshot of post by yetiking77 at reddit.com)

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In the comment section, some users wondered if the image was a product of generative AI or digitally altered in any other manner. However, it was authentic.

A reverse image search quickly led to the original photo (archived here): A shot taken by Mandel Ngan/ AFP via Getty Images. The image's description read:

US President Donald Trump walks on the South Lawn of the White House upon his return to Washington, DC, on November 16, 2025. Trump is returning to the White House after spending the weekend at his Mar-a-Lago, Florida, residence.

A search for the photographer's name across the AFP website produced multiple pages mentioning Ngan. A search across the Getty Images website, as of this writing, showed 106,895 examples of Ngan's work (archived here), and a social media account under that name published multiple posts that were consistent with the professional duties of a Washington, D.C.-based photographer documenting the White House.

When Lead Stories approached the White House for comments, a spokesman did not contest the authenticity of the image -- they disputed the position of the flag.

In a November 18, 2025, email, White House Spokesman Davis Ingle referred to the social media posts about the "fallen" flag as "fake news". The statement continued:
As what would have been Shadeed Hall's 35th birthday approaches on November 21, his family is still searching for answers in his killing.

Hall was visiting his childhood neighborhood on the 2200 block of South Felton Street in Southwest Philadelphia when he was shot and killed on July 24.

His family says they are hoping for closure.

"I just encourage somebody to come forward. Do what you would want done for your family. If you knew something, just say something," a relative said.

Authorities are offering a $20,000 reward for information leading to an arrest and conviction in the case.
ZURICH (Reuters) -Julius Baer has chosen software provider Temenos to replace its ageing core banking system in the Swiss home market, four people familiar with the matter said, in a quest by the bank to update critical infrastructure amid mounting regulatory requirements.

CEO Stefan Bollinger announced in June the bank had set up a new digital business transformation function and initiated a project to modernise its IT infrastructure in Switzerland, without revealing the name of the supplier.

"It has to be done, and I want to do a substantial proportion in the current strategic cycle," Bollinger said, referring to the cycle ending in 2028 and citing more regulatory demands as one of the drivers.

The bank is aligning its Swiss systems with Temenos' T24 product which Julius Baer already uses in Singapore and Luxembourg, two of the sources said.

Julius Baer is also adding a Temenos wealth management interface for relationship managers and high-net-worth clients, according to one of the sources.

The bank declined to comment on the choice of Temenos and individual systems. Temenos declined to comment.

Temenos today typically sells new contracts using a subscription model, where cash flows are distributed over a period of five years, according to Reto Huber, analyst at financial consultancy Research Partners.

Switzerland in 2016 introduced a rule for banks to operate a computer-based system to monitor transactions, which requires increased digitisation of customer data, according to financial market regulator FINMA.

Julius Baer, which is still under a FINMA enforcement procedure for losses to failed property group Signa, said there was no link between the IT upgrade and the ongoing assessment.

"The IT infrastructure programme in Switzerland is not an operational risk issue, rather an initiative to gain strategic flexibility in pursuit of the bank's future ambitions," it said.

(Reporting by Marleen Kaesebier in Gdansk, Ariane Luthi and Oliver Hirt in Zurich and Jesus Aguado in Madrid, editing by Alexandra Hudson)
Current and former members of Gov. Gavin Newsoms administration were among the dozens of Sacramento insiders who received FBI letters in recent days notifying them that their phone calls, texts or other electronic communications had been intercepted as part of the federal corruption case tied to Dana Williamson and two additional longtime Democratic operatives.

The notifications are routine in wiretap investigations once surveillance ends, but the letters set off a wave of panic across Californias political power structure. The letters are signed by Sacramento Field Office Special Agent in Charge Siddhartha Patel and began arriving in mailboxes from Sacramento to Washington, D.C., last week, according to copies of the communications shared with The Times.

The legal notifications, under the terms of the 1968 Federal Wiretap Act, are sent out routinely to people whose private communications have been captured on federal wiretaps.

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A Newsom spokesperson said the governor's office is aware that a limited number of the letters were sent to current and former members of the administration. The spokesperson said that the letters were expected given federal law requires parties to be notified. Newsom's office said the governor did not receive a letter.

FBI officials referred questions about the letters to the U.S. attorney's office. That office has declined to comment on details of the investigation beyond what is in the public court record, but has indicated that the investigation is ongoing.

Newsom told the Sacramento Bee on Wednesday that he reacted with real surprise and shock and concern for Williamsons four children after he was told about her arrest.

The governor described how Williamson was placed on leave last November when she informed his office of the federal investigation. My hope was, over the course [of] last year, that whatever this was, I wasnt privy to the details, it would be worked out, Newsom said.

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A high-ranking member of the U.S. attorneys office last week described its indictment of Williamson as part of an ongoing investigation, although its not clear what federal officials are focused on.

Newsom's office said the governor is not involved in the case against Williamson. None of the charging documents released in the cases against the three aides mention Newsom.

Copies of the letters, which were provided to The Times by individuals who asked to remain anonymous, indicate the period of time the communications were intercepted ranged from May 2024 to the end of July of 2024.

"This letter does not necessarily mean you were the target of the investigation or that any criminal action will be taken against you," Patel wrote in the letter. "Rather, the purpose of this letter is to notify you that some of your communications may have been intercepted during the course of the investigation."

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Williamson, known as one of Californias toughest political insiders who previously worked as chief of staff to Newsom, was arrested last week on federal charges that allege she siphoned $225,000 out of 2026 gubernatorial hopeful Xavier Becerras dormant state campaign account. She also was accused of spending $1 million on luxury handbags and highflying travel and illegally declaring them as business expenses on her tax returns.

According to the 23-count indictment, Williamson conspired with Becerras former chief deputy in the California attorney generals office and ex-chief of staff Sean McCluskie, along with lobbyist Greg Campbell, to bill Becerras dormant campaign account for bogus consulting services.

Williamson has pleaded not guilty to the charges.

Authorities have not revealed any targets beyond Williamson, Campbell and McCluskie. But Williamsons lawyer said that federal authorities had charged his client only after first approaching her to seek help with a probe they were conducting into Newsom, the nature of which remains unclear. Williamson declined to cooperate, her attorney said.

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Details contained in the indictment and other public records indicate that the FBI and U.S. Department of Justice homed in on Williamson and other operatives involvement in a legal case involving a company known in court papers as Corporation 1. The contours of the case described in the indictment match that of a controversial sex discrimination investigation that the state of California led into one of the worlds largest video game companies, Santa-Monica based Activision Blizzard Inc.

Newsom said he was unaware of any allegations about Williamson's involvement with Activision.

"I'm not aware of anything," Newsom told the Bee.

The highly publicized indictment against Williamson was sprinkled with references to her phone calls and text messages, indicating that federal investigators were probably relying on wiretapping. Nevertheless, the letters informing a wide swath of political insiders, from lobbyists to other operatives, is causing widespread anxiety across the Capitol.

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The exact number of letters sent by the FBI is unknown, but political insiders say they've heard that dozens of people have received letters.

"It sends a chill up your spine, and everybody is worried," said Democratic consultant Steve Maviglio, who said he did not receive a letter. "They can't remember what they said to whom, about what. It could be anything. I think most people think this could be the tip of the iceberg. They are very concerned about where all these roads might lead."

Another political insider joked that the letters were sent to so many people that he felt left out, having not received one.

Assembly Speaker Robert Rivas said Tuesday that neither the FBI nor the Department of Justice had contacted him about the Williamson case or any other issue. His office said Wednesday that Rivas had not received a letter from the FBI indicating his communications had been intercepted.

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Rivas didnt appear surprised by the notion that some in Sacramento are worried that they were secretly recorded by the government.

That paranoia has always existed, Rivas said. The way Ive operated is dont break the rules, dont violate the law and youll be OK.

Senate President Pro Tem Monique Limon has also not received a letter and has not been contacted by the Department of Justice or FBI, her office said.

One person who spoke to The Times on condition of anonymity said there is widespread concern among those who received letters about what information will become public, such as private communication with clients or political strategies unrelated to alleged wrongdoing. Others said they worried how such information could be used by the Trump administration.

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Newsoms office has tried to link the federal case to California's strained relationship with the Trump administration, noting accusations that the president has used the Justice Department to target political opponents. The case involving Williamson, however, began years earlier under the Biden administration.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A stepsibling of 18-year-old Anna Kepner is being investigated for possible involvement in the Florida teen's death on a Carnival cruise ship earlier this month, a law enforcement source and a person familiar with the matter told CBS News.

Kepner's family believes her 16-year-old stepbrother is a suspect in an FBI investigation, according to court filings from a custody hearing obtained by CBS News. The court filings refer to the stepbrother as "T.H."

"There is an open investigation regarding [Kepner's] death and T.H. is a suspect regarding this death which occurred recently on a cruise ship," according to a filing Kepner's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, entered in the circuit court of Brevard County, Florida, on Nov. 18.

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The filing came in response to one entered by Hudson's ex-husband a day earlier amidst their custody dispute of their children, which also asserted the 16-year-old is a suspect.

The FBI has not named anyone as a suspect in this case, and in a statement, the FBI said it does not provide operational updates on its investigations except in rare circumstances.

One law enforcement source said the two stepsiblings may have had some kind of altercation.

Kepner was on a family vacation in the Caribbean with her father, stepmother and three stepsiblings when she was discovered dead on the Carnival Horizon as it was headed back to Miami, where it docked on Nov. 8. Her body was found by a housekeeper under the bed in her stateroom, law enforcement sources told CBS News.

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Kepner was staying in the same room as her stepbrother and one other stepsibling.

CBS News has confirmed the time of death listed by the medical examiner is 11:17 a.m. on Nov. 7; a source familiar with the investigation says this is around the time Kepner's body was discovered.

According to family members, Kepner had told them the night before that she wasn't feeling well and returned to her room. When she didn't show up for breakfast the next morning, a frantic search began.

CBS News reported Tuesday that an unrelated court filing suggested charges may be coming against one of Kepner's stepsiblings. That disclosure appeared in a motion made by Kepner's stepmother, Shauntel Hudson, to reschedule a divorce hearing due to the matter.

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"An extremely sensitive and severe circumstance has arisen wherein the Respondent/Mother will not be able to testify at the hearing at this time," the filing stated.

CBS News has reached out to Hudson and her attorneys.

Investigators are now reviewing surveillance video from the ship and analyzing electronic swipe card data that may show who entered the teen's cabin, the law enforcement sources said. They are also examining Kepner's cellphone records. The FBI and ship security are also conducting interviews with other passengers, crewmembers and Kepner's family.

In a statement, Carnival Cruise Line said it is cooperating with the federal investigation. The FBI has jurisdiction because Kepner is a U.S. citizen and the death occurred in international waters. The Miami FBI office is working closely with Carnival security.

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Carnival also said the FBI has told it there is no related threat to safety aboard the ship on its current voyage.

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A 16-year FBI employee has filed a lawsuit alleging he was fired last month because he had a Pride flag draped near his desk.

David Maltinsky, who was weeks away from being elevated to the position of agent, claims the firing was unlawful and sent a ripple of fear through the LGBT employees at the FBI.

"We're not the enemy and we're not some political mob. We're proud members of the FBI, and we have a mission to do. We go to work every day to do it," Maltinsky told CBS News in his first interview.

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In a civil complaint filed Wednesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, Maltinsky seeks a court order to restore his job.

The suit makes several allegations, including an argument that the FBI has violated Maltinsky's First Amendment rights and retaliated against him for protected expression.

According to the lawsuit, the First Amendment "forbids government officials from firing government employees, or otherwise retaliating against them, simply for engaging in expressive conduct concerning a matter of public concern."

David Maltinsky / Credit: CBS News

The lawsuit states that Maltinsky was fired in a letter signed by FBI Director Kash Patel in October. A copy of the letter was provided by Maltinsky to CBS News. In it, Patel writes: "I have determined that you exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage in your work area during your previous assignment at the Los Angeles Field Office. Pursuant to Article II of the United States Constitution and the laws of the United States, your employment with the Federal Bureau of Investigation is hereby terminated."

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The FBI had no comment regarding Maltinsky's lawsuit.

Maltinsky, who began working at the FBI in 2008, was in the midst of a training program for future agents at the FBI's facility in Quantico, Virginia, when he was fired, according to the lawsuit.

The rainbow flag that Maltinsky displayed at his workspace in the FBI's Los Angeles Field Office was presented to him after it had previously been displayed outside the Bureau's federal office complex there, according to the lawsuit.

Maltinsky said the federal government approved the display of Pride flags at federal office complexes in June 2021. His lawsuit alleges that a colleague filed a complaint with a supervisor about Maltinsky's flag on Jan. 20, 2025, the day of President Trump's second Inaugural.

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In an hourlong interview with CBS News, Maltinsky said his firing has had a chilling impact inside the Bureau.

"The ripple effect of fear has been felt. Many gay colleagues have removed Pride flags from their desks, allies have removed Pride flags from their desk," he said.

David Maltinsky holding a Pride flag. He is suing the FBI over his termination. / Credit: CBS News

"David's dream was to serve our country as an FBI Special Agent," said Christopher M. Mattei, counsel for Maltinsky and a partner at Koskoff, Koskoff & Bieder, PC. "When that dream was cruelly taken from him, he stayed true to his oath and is now fighting to protect the rights of all Americans."

"This case is about far more than one man's careerit's about whether the government can punish Americans simply for saying who they are," Mattei said.

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Under questioning at a congressional hearing in September, Patel told senators he was not taking action against any "enemies list," including among FBI employees.

"The only actions we take, generally speaking, for personnel at the FBI, are ones based on merit and qualification and your ability to uphold your constitutional duty," Patel said.

"You fall short, you don't work there anymore."

Maltinsky's firing is part of a large and growing wave of terminations, resignations and retirements inside the Justice Department since Jan. 20. Justice Connection, an organization that supports the ex-employees, told CBS News more than 5,000 employees have left or been fired from the agency this year.

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The purge includes agents and prosecutors who handled the U.S. Capitol riot prosecutions and the special counsel criminal probes of President Trump, which were dropped after Mr. Trump won the election in November 2024.

"It's very sad that it's happening," Maltinsky told CBS News. "But part of this filing is that: I'm not intimidated. We're not intimidated."

"Diversity means so much to so many different people," he added. "There is no one definition that everyone will agree on. What I believe is diversity brings strength."

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Community members tell ABC11 the ripple effects of Tuesday's immigration crackdown are still being felt in the Triangle.

Eyewitness News has not been able to confirm any new activity by federal agents Wednesday.

ABC News reported Tuesday federal agents would refocus immigration enforcement activities back to Charlotte after descending on the Triangle Tuesday.

Eyewitness News asked the Department of Homeland Security for details about how many people were detained in activities on Tuesday in the Raleigh area, and why DHS decided to refocus activities to Charlotte.

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DHS has yet to respond with specific details about the Raleigh-area enforcement operation, but did say at least 250 people have been arrested since the North Carolina operations began.

On Wednesday, Eyewitness News returned to some of the communities that saw immigration enforcement activities by federal agents.

Residents at the Pointe at Midtown apartments in Raleigh saw federal agents in bulletproof vests chase after and detain at least one person there Tuesday.

Juan Pablo Vasquez says many of his neighbors are too afraid to go outside, and many of them have decided to not go to work.

"When the kids got on the bus this morning, it's sad. At the bus stop here today, only one kid got on. One kid out of 50 or 45 that live around here," he said.

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"Because of the insecurity, because of the fear, one would say it's better to stay inside."

El Centro Hispano Supervisor of Legal Information Anabel Rosa said many questions about the enforcement activities linger in the community.

"The part that we don't understand is the way this is being conducted, and then the result in the lives of people," she said.

Over at Duke Regional Hospital, staff and community members called on Duke to better protect patients.

It comes after staff say the hospital might be a target for immigration enforcement activities.

Andrea Cazales is a nurse there, and says she's seeing firsthand how fears of immigration enforcement activity is impacting her patients.

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"I'm seeing the stress, the anxiety, the depression, all of that is a public health crisis," she said. "And now we're seeing a lot of adolescents, especially Latinx adolescents, experiencing a lot of rises in mental health effects."

Rosa says that amidst the growing fears and worries, she and many others are seeing some signs of hope.

"We see so much clearer right now that we have each other, and that the community is tight. And it's not just the Latino community, but everyone," she said. "Different organizations are getting together, sharing information. People are helping with food, stores are helping with deliveries."

In response to the concerns raised by staff, Duke officials released the following statement.

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"We understand the fear and uncertainty that ongoing immigration-related activity has created in our community. Duke remains committed to supporting the safety, dignity, and well-being of all members of our community - patients, students, employees, and visitors - regardless of immigration status.

Our hospitals and clinics are places of healing, and we follow strict federal and state privacy laws, including HIPAA, to protect patient and staff confidentiality. We do not collect immigration status as part of patient care and have established protocols to ensure any law-enforcement activity on our premises complies with legal standards and does not disrupt care."

Community groups have also begun sharing resources for those in the community.

El Futuro shared Know Your Rights resources in English and Spanish for those in the community.
Federal and tribal law enforcement officials announced a major drug bust on Monday, seizing more than 37,000 fentanyl pills valued at nearly $1.5 million during a coordinated operation on the Pueblo of Isleta Reservation in New Mexico.

The operation, led by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Division of Drug Enforcement and Pueblo of Isleta Tribal Police, resulted in the confiscation of approximately 37,300 fentanyl pills and $37,877 in cash. The Homeland Security Task Force also participated in the interdiction effort.

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Secretary of the Interior Doug Burgum praised the multi-agency collaboration, emphasizing the administration's commitment to protecting Native American communities from drug trafficking.

Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs William Kirkland highlighted the ongoing challenge of illegal drugs in tribal areas, noting that narcotics trafficking remains a major contributor to violent crime in Indian Country.

"I praise the great collaboration between all of the involved agencies, both tribal and non-tribal, to protect our nation from deadly drugs which continue to devastate our country," Kirkland said in a statement.

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The seizure comes as part of broader federal efforts to combat the opioid crisis in Native American communities. In 2018, the Department of the Interior established an Opioid Reduction Task Force, led by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services, specifically designed to prevent illegal narcotics from being distributed in and around Indian Country.

The task force represents a coordinated effort across multiple agencies and was created in response to the national opioid crisis. Interior officials say combating fentanyl trafficking has become a key priority in 2025, with the department intensifying its efforts against drug trafficking organizations through partnerships with various law enforcement task forces.

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Contact: news@nativenewsonline.net
Dawn Wheeler followed every twist and turn of the government shutdown. In some ways, she said, she felt as if her life were on the line.

The 59-year-old from Edwardsville, Kansas, is one of millions of Americans who buy health insurance through the Affordable Care Act marketplace and who could see the cost of their premiums skyrocket next year unless Congress extends COVID-19-era ACA tax credits.

Democratic lawmakers had been pushing to include an extension of the Obamacare subsidies in a spending package to reopen the government. But eight Senate Democrats relented on those demands and voted with Republicans Nov. 10 to end the record-breaking 43-day government shutdown. Shortly after, the compromise passed in the House, and President Donald Trump signed it into law, without the health care measure.

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More: ACA health insurance tax credits could end in December. How will you be affected?

President Donald Trump shakes hands with the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson after signing the bill package to re-open the federal government in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on Nov. 12, 2025. Congress on Wednesday ended the longest government shutdown in US history, 43 days that paralyzed Washington and left hundreds of thousands of workers unpaid while Republicans and Democrats played a high-stakes blame game. The Republican-led House of Representatives voted largely along party lines to approve a Senate-passed package that will reopen federal departments and agencies, as many Democrats fume over what they see as a capitulation by party leaders. President Donald Trump signs the funding bill to end the U.S. government shutdown, at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 12, 2025. President Donald Trump signs funding legislation to reopen the federal government as he is joined by House Minority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), Republican lawmakers and business leaders, during a ceremony in the Oval Office of the White House on Nov. 12, 2025, in Washington, DC. The legislation, passed by the House tonight, funds the federal government until the end of January 2026 and ends the 43-day government shutdown, the longest in the nationOs history. House Speaker Mike Johnson speaks to the media in Statuary Hall after the House voted 222-209 to pass the Senate's funding deal, with 216 Republicans and six Democrats supporting the bill, and two Republicans and 207 Democrats opposed, after 43 days of shuttered government and unpaid federal workers, on Wednesday, Nov.12, 2025. U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) holds a news conference after the House passed funding legislation to reopen the federal government, at the Capitol on Nov. 12, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House voted 222-209 to approve Senate-passed legislation that funds the government through the end of January 2026, reopening the government and ending the 43-day shutdown, the longest in American history. House Speaker Mike Johnson arriving to speak to the media in Statuary Hall after the House voted 222-209 to pass the Senate's funding deal, with 216 Republicans and six Democrats supporting the bill, and two Republicans and 207 Democrats opposed, after 43 days of shuttered government and unpaid federal workers, on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. House Speaker Mike Johnson, right, walks from the House floor with House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA), left, to speak with the media in Statuary Hall immediately after the House voted 222-209 to pass the Senate's funding deal, with 216 Republicans and six Democrats supporting the bill, and two Republicans and 207 Democrats opposed, after 43 days of shuttered government and unpaid federal workers, on Wednesday, Nov. 12, 2025. U.S. Representative Victoria Spartz arrives during a series of votes in the U.S. House of Representatives that could bring the longest U.S. government shutdown in history to a close, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov.12, 2025. U.S. Representative and New Jersey Governor-elect Mikie Sherrill gives a television interview during a series of votes in the U.S. House of Representatives that could bring the longest U.S. government shutdown in history to a close, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov.12, 2025. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-LA) (2nd-L) walks to the House Chamber on Nov. 12, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House of Representatives is expected to vote on Senate-passed legislation that funds the government through the end of January 2026, reopening the government and ending the 43-day shutdown, the longest in American history. U.S. Rep. Chip Roy (R-TX) (L) speaks to the media as he exits the House Chamber at the U.S. Capitol on Nov. 12, 2025 in Washington, DC. The House of Representatives is expected to vote on Senate-passed legislation that funds the government through the end of January 2026, reopening the government and ending the 43-day shutdown, the longest in American history. House Speaker Mike Johnson, right, speaking with Rep. Adelita Grijalva (D-AZ) after a ceremonial swearing of at the United States Capitol on Nov. 12, 2025, following the official swearing in on the House floor on Wednesday, Nov. 11. 2025. U.S. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) walks surrounded by the media, as members of the U.S. House of Representatives returned to Washington after a 53-day break, for a vote that could bring the longest U.S. government shutdown in history to a close, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 12, 2025. House Republican Conference Chairwoman Lisa McClain (R-MI) talks on the phone, as members of the U.S. House of Representatives returned to Washington after a 53-day break, for a vote that could bring the longest U.S. government shutdown in history to a close, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC on Nov. 12, 2025. Nancy Pelosi, Speaker Emerita of the U.S. House of Representatives, right, stands with members as Democratic House Leader Hakeem Jeffries leads a press conference on the House Steps at the United States Capitol on Nov. 12, 2025, as members return after a 54-day break, before House lawmakers take up legislation that would end the longest government shutdown in American history and vote on the Senate-passed spending deal. Democratic House Leader Hakeem Jeffries leads a press conference on the House Steps at the United States Capitol on Nov. 12, 2025, as members return after a 54-day break, before House lawmakers take up legislation that would end the longest government shutdown in American history and vote on the Senate-passed spending deal Congress passes deal to end longest government shutdown in US history 1 of 16 President Donald Trump shakes hands with the Speaker of the House Mike Johnson after signing the bill package to re-open the federal government in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC, on Nov. 12, 2025. Congress on Wednesday ended the longest government shutdown in US history, 43 days that paralyzed Washington and left hundreds of thousands of workers unpaid while Republicans and Democrats played a high-stakes blame game. The Republican-led House of Representatives voted largely along party lines to approve a Senate-passed package that will reopen federal departments and agencies, as many Democrats fume over what they see as a capitulation by party leaders.

Now, patient advocates say, the subsidies face an uphill path to passage before the end of the year, when premiums could more than double.

Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-South Dakota, has promised to hold a vote in December on a plan to extend the Obamacare subsidies that help millions of Americans afford health care. But Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said he would not commit to a similar vote in his chamber.

If we couldn't get it done during the shutdown standoff, it's hard to see what we shift now, said Rebecca Kirch, executive vice president of policy and programs at the National Patient Advocate Foundation.

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For Wheeler, who has metastatic breast cancer, Congress ultimate decision will mean the difference of tens of thousands of dollars. Without the subsidies, Wheeler said, her 2026 insurance could jump from $272 a month to $2,335 a month. She said that is roughly 60% of her family's income. Wheeler is unemployed because of her treatment and relies on her husband's income.

Dawn Wheeler, 59, said her health care premiums will increase from $272 a month to $2,335 a month in 2026 if Congress does not extend Affordable Care Act tax credits initially passed in 2021

She can't afford to lose coverage. One of her chemotherapy drugs costs $20,000 a month, she said, and she typically hits her out-of-pocket maximum by the end of January each year.

At first, Wheeler said, she resented Democrats for negotiating a deal to end the shutdown that didnt include the ACA measure.

I really wish the Democrats would have held out, Wheeler said. We'll have to wait and see how this all plays out but I still feel like our feet are getting dangled over the fire.

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Ultimately, she said, she holds Republicans responsible for not dealing with the subsidy extension in the spending package they passed in July.

We are real people with real lives and real families, Wheeler said. Our mortgage is also going up because of property taxes. Our utilities are going to be going up. Groceries have gone up. Everything across the board, the cost of living has gone up. I don't know what we're going to do.

Obamacare marketplace users in limbo

Congress initially created the enhanced tax credits in 2021 to ensure Americans could afford health coverage amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

The plan expanded the pool of people eligible to receive subsidies on ACA plans to include those making more than four times the federal poverty level, which is about $63,000 for a single earner today, if their premiums exceeded 8.5% of household income, according to an analysis by the health policy organization KFF. It also decreased the percentage of income all enrollees needed to pay for coverage.

Democratic House Leader Hakeem Jeffries stands with other Democratic leaders on the steps of the U.S. Capitol as members return after a 54-day break, before House lawmakers take up legislation that would end the longest government shutdown in American history and vote on the Senate-passed spending deal.

In the past five years, the enhanced subsidies have more than doubled the number of people enrolled in ACA plans, and a majority come from red states such as North Carolina, Florida, Georgia and Texas, according to KFF.

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The organization estimates that as many as 22 million Americans on ACA plans could see their monthly health insurance premiums jump 114% if the tax credits lapse, and many could lose coverage.

The Congressional Budget Office estimated that about 4 million people would go uninsured without an extension to the ACA tax credits. If passed, the subsidies would increase the federal deficit by about $350 billion by 2035, the office found.

Sabrina Corlette, codirector of the Center on Health Insurance Reforms at Georgetown University, says the soaring prices are caused by several factors. Without the expanded subsidies, people will need to pay a larger percentage of their health insurance costs.

At the same time, insurance companies in the ACA marketplace are increasing the price of premiums because they expect more people to drop insurance coverage as a result of sticker shock from the ACA cuts. Fewer people, particularly fewer healthy people, paying into the system means the expenses are spread over a smaller pool, which raises rates.

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That's why theyre implementing gross premiums that are on average 20% to 30% higher than they would be otherwise, Corlette said. This is a serious financial hit to millions and millions of American families.

Others, including Robert Kaestner, a research professor at the University of Chicagos Harris School of Public Policy, say the partisan debate around the enhanced tax credits has led to exaggerated claims.

Kaestner says the estimates of 4 million or more Americans losing health insurance are overstated. He places the number at about 2 million, which is still a serious cost, he said, and said there are drawbacks no matter what happens.

A sign points the way to an Affordable Care Act sign-up event. Nearly 24 million people have signed up for ACA coverage in 2025.

Ending the expanded subsidies will lead people to go without health insurance, he said, but Kaestner also argued that government expenditure would be more targeted toward the poorest Americans.

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"From 2020 until today, there's 20 million more people on Medicaid and in the ACA marketplaces, meaning 20 million more people getting government subsidies for their health insurance," Kaestner said. "If we look at what happened to the uninsured rate, there's no evidence that 20 million came from the ranks of the uninsured. So while I can't be sure about this, many of that 20 million came from private insurance."

Who is impacted by the loss of subsidies?

Of the 24.3 million Americans insured through ACA plans, about 92%, or about 22 million, receive some form of subsidy.

Small-business owners and people who work for small businesses that dont provide employer-sponsored health insurance make up a large chunk of people on the ACA marketplace, according to KFF.

Those include farmers, real estate agents, restaurant workers, retail employees and people working gig jobs, among others, said Anthony Wright, executive director of Families USA, a health care advocacy group.

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Now that the ACA extension is no longer tied to the shutdown fight, Wright said, it is harder to see a path where it passes Congress before the higher premiums take effect. Open enrollment began Nov. 1, and people signing in to the ACA marketplace are already being met with higher prices.

Wright fell short of criticizing Democrats for abandoning their ACA demands in the shutdown fight and instead blamed Republicans for not including the measure in the One Big Beautiful Bill Act.

Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) Dick Durbin (D-IL) Maggie Hassan, (D-NH) John Fetterman (D-PA) Tim Kaine (D-VA) Sen. Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH) Sen. Angus King (I-ME) Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) 8 Senate Democratic Caucus members who broke ranks to end the 2025 government shutdown 1 of 8 Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV)

There's no doubt that this was a setback, Wright said. This should be the easiest vote in the world to prevent a huge premium spike after an election on affordability.

But some voters who rely on the tax credits say they are frustrated with Democrats. A CBS News poll published Nov. 16 found 55% of Americans believed Republicans got more of what they wanted out of the shutdown negotiations. A majority of Democrats said their party gave in too much.

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Eric Kurland, 61, and his wife, Kari Kurland, 63, purchased ACA coverage after 2021, when subsidies made the insurance more affordable. They taught for years in Scottsdale, Arizona, and are now retired.

In 2025, they paid $513 a month for their ACA insurance. For 2026, Eric Kurland said the cheapest available plan in the same tier of coverage will cost $2,218.69 a month, a little over $26,000 for the year. Their combined income is about $80,000 a year, he said.

Without the subsidies, Kurland said, theyre opting not to purchase ACA coverage, though they do have another option: buying health insurance through the state retirement system. Kurland estimates it will cost about $1,000 a month, about 8% of their yearly income.

"It is somewhat of a solution, which will cause us to cut back a little bit," Kurland said. "I feel the Democrats have given up the fight, and I think they need to fight, and I am upset with them.

An uncertain path forward for the tax credits

Trump told congressional Republicans in a Truth Social post Nov. 18 not to waste their time working out an extension for the enhanced ACA tax credits. The president said he would approve only a measure that would send money directly back to the people, but it was unclear how such a plan would work.

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Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-Louisiana, has floated a proposal in line with Trumps favored approach that would replace ACA premium tax credits with prepaid health savings accounts, funded partially with money from lapsed tax credits. People who sign up for a Bronze Plan, one of the tiers of coverage in the marketplace with lower premiums and higher deductibles, would be given money in an HSA account.

Cassidy, a physician, suggested in an interview Nov. 16 on CBS News that Republicans would craft the details of the plan and put it up for a vote against Democrats proposal to extend the ACA enhanced subsidies by mid-December.

Sen. Bill Cassidy, R-La., questions Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, as he testifies about the health care agenda for the Trump administration in front of the Senate Committee on Finance in Washington, D.C., on September 4, 2025.

But the two parties remain in a stalemate, and Congress has only three working weeks left on its schedule for the year.

As the clock ticks, Wright at Families USA said some are already beginning to make final health care decisions for next year. The ACA open enrollment period runs from Nov. 1 through Jan. 15.

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Every day we delay, these higher rates get baked in and more people look at these skyrocketing premiums and get sticker shock and just plan to fall off coverage, Wright said. Every day we delay causes further damage to both individual families and to our system.

(This story has been updated with additional context.)

Contributing: Sarah Wire and Ken Alltucker

Karissa Waddick, a reporter on USA TODAY's Nation Desk, can be reached at kwaddick@usatoday.com

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: The government shutdown is over, but ACA enrollees are still in limbo
Two people have been arrested and a boat captain is under investigation after a ferry ran aground on rocks off South Korea's south-west coast.

All 267 passengers and crew on board the Queen Jenuvia 2 were rescued after it became stuck near the uninhabited island of Jogdo, off the coast of Jangsan Island in Shinan County, on Wednesday. Twenty-seven people sustained minor injuries from the impact of grounding.

The coast guard told the BBC they had arrested the helmsman and the first mate for gross negligence resulting in injuries.

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The helmsman initially blamed a steering wheel malfunction, but later admitted he had been on his phone and missed the point at which he was supposed to change course.

The vessel has now docked at a nearby port.

Authorities say they are still investigating the exact cause of the accident.

Some passengers described it in real time on social media.

"There was a loud bang, and then the ship tilted," one was quoted as saying by South Korea's Yonhap news agency. "An announcement told everyone to put on life jackets, so we're wearing them and waiting on the top deck."

The 26,000-tonne ferry was travelling to the port city of Mokpo after departing from the resort island of Jeju, officials said.

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The area is near the site where the Sewol ferry sunk in 2014. More than 300 people were killed in that incident, mostly children heading for a school trip.

The salvaged wreck of the Sewol ferry was brought to Mokpo nearly three years later.

Describing Wednesday's incident, Kim Namhyun, a diving instructor on Jeju Island, told Reuters: "I thought I might die. The sound was too loud.

"But having seen the Sewol ferry, I knew that in situations like this, you have to stay calm, move outside, wear a life jacket, and wait."
By Toby Sterling

AMSTERDAM (Reuters) -Kissing did not begin with star-crossed human lovers but with the primate ancestors of great apes around 20 million years ago, according to a study published on Wednesday.

Researchers from Oxford University and the Florida Institute of Technology wanted to examine when kissing began, given that from an evolutionary standpoint it has no obvious survival benefit, and could spread disease.

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Yet humans, chimpanzees, bonobos, orangutans, and gorillas all kiss, which strongly suggests the habit was inherited from a shared ancestor. Scientists in the study combined observations of primate behaviour with data on evolutionary relationships, to rewind the clock and try and date the first kiss.

"Using these two key pieces of information, we employed a modelling approach that allowed us to simulate different evolutionary scenarios," said lead author Dr. Matilda Brindle of Oxford's Department of Biology. Running the model millions of times put that first smooch at 21.5-16.9 million years ago.

The findings were published in the journal Evolution and Human Behavior.

The scientists' unromantic definition of kissing was "non-aggressive, mouth-to-mouth contact that did not involve food transfer." This included sexual kissing as well as platonic kisses such as those between family members or in friendly greetings. How kissing emerged remains a subject of debate, as does why it persisted.

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"Some people suggest sexual kissing is a useful way of assessing mate quality or suitability," Brindle said. "Alternatively, kissing could be a type of foreplay, increasing sexual arousal and boosting the chance of fertilisation."

Platonic pecks are thought to be used to navigate complex social relationships or increase bonding, she said.

The study argued Neanderthals and humans also likely locked lips, given evidence that they interbred and shared an oral microbe - a sign they swapped saliva - long after the two species diverged 450,000-750,000 years ago.

(Reporting by Toby SterlingEditing by Alexandra Hudson)
Aquaculture  the farming of fish and other aquatic organisms  is the worlds fastest-growing food production system.

The sharpest growth in aquaculture is happening in Africa. Average annual growth rates have exceeded 10% in recent years measured by production value.

Over the past 10 years in Lake Victoria, shared between Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, aquaculture has transformed from a small-scale enterprise into a vast and diverse commercial industry.

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Lake Victoria is the worlds second-largest freshwater lake by surface area. Cage aquaculture, the farming of fish within cages, has expanded rapidly in the lake. The cages are made of nets in frames, and are mostly stocked with Nile tilapia. The number of fish in a cage farm varies from tens to hundreds of thousands. The sector accounts for about 25% of the fish Kenya produces.

These cage farms support the nutrition and livelihoods of more than 40 million people in the lakes basin.

We are environmental scientists who study biological threats to public health. From our research, we have found that this industry faces two interconnected challenges: large-scale fish deaths; and resistance to the drugs used to treat diseased fish.

Repeated, large-scale die-offs are known as fish kills. They involve the rapid death of hundreds of thousands, or sometimes millions, of fish within a few days. Many farmers who find dead fish in their cages simply toss them into the lake, where they can easily wash up against another cage and transmit disease.

Farmers and fish health professionals often use antimicrobials, which are drugs like antibiotics, to manage and treat infectious diseases. But antimicrobial resistance is a rising threat. A misuse of these drugs is fuelling the emergence of resistant bacteria, making treatments ineffective.

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Because of the scale of these problems, we set out to systematically examine both the causes of mass fish deaths and the spread of antimicrobial resistance in Lake Victorias cage aquaculture industry.

Our study was conducted in Kenya. We found that fish deaths in Lake Victorias tilapia industry are likely driven by water quality problems. These include low oxygen levels, pollution and harmful algal blooms. Algal blooms refer to the rapid growth and subsequent decomposition of algae. This can lead to the release of toxins and rapid drops in dissolved oxygen levels.

These water quality problems create openings for infectious bacteria to thrive.

To address this, we suggest:

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stronger disease reporting systems to enable a prompt response from industry authorities

improved diagnostics to determine the cause of fish mortalities

clear guidelines for antimicrobial use among farmers.

Without these interventions, the sustainability of a rapidly growing industry  and the food security of millions in east Africa  remains at risk.

Our findings

Our study surveyed 172 cage farm operations. These were across the five Kenyan counties in Lake Victoria (Kisumu, Siaya, Busia, Homa Bay and Migori).

We surveyed cage farmers perceptions and responses to fish kills. We also carried out a rapid-response investigation of a mass tilapia mortality event, and disease surveillance. Finally, we tested the antimicrobial resistance of identified bacterial pathogens.

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Between 2020 and 2023, the farmers in our study reported 82 large-scale fish kill events in Lake Victoria, with more than 1.8 million tilapia dying.

These events had major economic consequences, but reporting and treatment were limited.

We found that only 39% of farmers informed the relevant Kenyan authorities. These include the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, Kenya Fisheries Service and county fisheries offices.

Just 17% attempted treatment. This usually included applying salt to the water without obtaining a diagnosis. This points to gaps in reporting systems and access to fish health services.

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Farmers mostly attributed fish deaths to poor water quality. Nearly 90% perceived links to changes in water colour and smell, high temperatures or algal blooms.

Harmful algal blooms happen when phytoplankton (tiny organisms in the water) quickly multiply and then decompose. These blooms produce dangerous toxins and can rapidly lower the levels of dissolved oxygen in the water. They can lead to fish deaths, and can affect human health if people eat contaminated fish or drink the water.

Harmful algal blooms in Lake Victoria are driven by the runoff from industries and the excessive use of fertilisers.

A smaller number of farmers cited human activities like stocking, handling or pollution.

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Very few directly associated mortalities with disease. This probably reflects limited training to recognise clinical signs of infection.

Our rapid-response investigation of a major fish kill in Busia County supported these observations. On arrival, we found discoloured, foul-smelling water. There were floating dead molluscs and low dissolved oxygen levels, conditions typical of harmful algal blooms.

From freshly deceased tilapia, we isolated three bacterial pathogens: Aeromonas jandaei, Enterobacter hormaechei and Staphylococcus epidermidis. These opportunistic pathogens often cause disease secondary to a primary stressor, such as poor water quality or rough handling.

This was the first time bacterial pathogens were successfully identified from a fish kill in Lake Victoria.

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We found that bacterial tilapia pathogens were more commonly found within cage farms with clogged cage nets, likely because the nets reduce water circulation and worsen cage water quality.

Finally, antimicrobial resistance testing revealed resistant strains among the bacterial samples.

These results can guide veterinarians and policymakers in making decisions about antimicrobial use in aquaculture.

What next

Our findings point to a central conclusion: opportunistic pathogens are widespread in Lake Victoria. And fish disease outbreaks are often driven by poor water quality.

Action is needed at multiple levels.

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At the landscape scale, nutrient runoff into the lake must be reduced. This requires improving sanitation infrastructure and promoting more efficient fertiliser use in agriculture. This will help prevent harmful algal blooms.

Fish farmers can:

set up cages in deeper waters with better circulation

keep cage nets clean to allow water flow

dispose of dead fish by composting or burning rather than throwing them back into the lake

rapidly report mortality events so authorities can investigate

improve feeding practices, such as using high-quality feed and avoiding overfeeding, to reduce nutrient loading into the lake.

A One Health approach, which recognises the interconnectedness of human, animal and environmental health, is important for the sustainability of Lake Victorias aquaculture.

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This means monitoring water quality and pollution, and establishing cross-sectoral collaborations for rapid disease response. Farmers also need training.

Improved production practices can decrease the need for antibiotics in the first place. Coordinated monitoring systems and cross-sectoral collaboration can help promote their responsible use.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Ekta Patel, International Livestock Research Institute ; Eric Teplitz, Cornell University, and Kathryn Fiorella, Cornell University

Read more:



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Eric Teplitz was funded by an NIH T32 postdoctoral training grant and a Cornell Atkinson Center Graduate Student Research Grant.

This study received funding from the USAID Feed the Future Fish Innovation Lab, US National Science Foundation, Cornell Atkinson Center Academic Venture Fund, and the Department of Public and Ecosystem Health Impact Awards (to KJF).

Ekta Patel does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
SANTIAGO, Chile, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Five foreign tourists died in Torres del Paine National Park in Chilean Patagonia while hiking a challenging trekking circuit and were caught in severe weather conditions, authorities said.

A distress message posted in the Facebook group "Torres del Paine, Chile" triggered a rescue operation late Monday that ended with the deaths of two Mexican tourists, two Germans and a British woman, while four other people were found alive.

The message, written by another hiker in the area and shared by guides, shelters and tourism agencies, quickly reached local authorities, who reported that a group of nine tourists had gone missing on one of the park's most difficult routes in one of its highest areas about 3,900 feet above sea level.

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It was also key that a tourist activated the Garmin SOS system on their watch, which sent a message to the United States, reported the outlet Emol. From the headquarters of the U.S. geolocation company, workers issued the alert to the Chilean authorities.

According to reports, the hikers -- who were traveling without a guide -- encountered a phenomenon known as "white wind," with gusts more than 120 mph, heavy snow, rain and below-freezing temperatures. Visibility dropped to zero and the terrain became impassable, preventing them from reaching any of the park's shelters.

Jose Antonio Ruiz, the presidential delegate for the Magallanes Region, said the bodies were found along one of the trails, ruling out an accident or fall.

"It is an area with extremely bad weather conditions, with strong wind and snow that severely limits visibility on the trail," Ruiz said. The route is normally closed in winter and reopens in November.

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At a news conference, Ruiz said rescue authorities are coordinating repatriation of the victims to their home countries.

"Talks have already begun with the corresponding consuls for the repatriation of the bodies," Ruiz said after a meeting of the Disaster Risk Management Committee in the area. He added that, as weather conditions allow, the victims will be transported in an Air Force helicopter.

"It is a very hard-to-reach area. Weather conditions have not allowed safe air operations," he said.

Chilean authorities said that once the emergency has passed, an investigation will begin to understand what happened and determine whether the park's safety protocols were followed. In the meantime, the National Prosecutor's Office has opened an investigation to establish responsibility.

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Torres del Paine National Park has six trekking routes, but two are the most visited. The O Circuit, where the deaths occurred, is one of them. It circles the Paine Massif, where weather can change within minutes because the area is highly exposed to wind.

"There are no trees or vegetation, which makes it harder to take shelter from the wind. In addition, the area is known for strong westerly winds that come from the Southern Patagonian Ice Field. It is a narrow area, which increases wind speed and the intensity of precipitation," Eduardo Katz, director of Ecotourism Management at Universidad San Sebastian, told La Tercera.

"It is a geographic area where you can experience all four seasons in a single day," he said.

On his X account, Chilean President Gabriel Boric posted a message "to the families, friends and loved ones of the five people of Mexican, German and British nationality who sadly died in the tragedy in Torres del Paine. I send my deepest condolences."
By Supantha Mukherjee

STOCKHOLM (Reuters) -Growth in U.S. markets helped Swedish fintech firm Klarna to achieve a 26% jump in third-quarter revenue, beating expectations in its first report as a public company and forecasting revenue above $1 billion in the current quarter, the company said on Tuesday.

The buy now, pay later lender, which went public in September in New York, reported revenue of $903 million, beating analysts' expectations of $882 million, according to data compiled by LSEG.

"To a large degree, AI is accelerating our ability to ship new features and products," CEO Sebastian Siemiatkowski told Reuters.

Klarna had been an early adopter of AI and used the technology to help customers and merchants cut jobs, create marketing campaigns and improve products.

However, Siemiatkowski expressed some nervousness about the huge spending on building data centres.

While there will be an uptick in demand for AI in both the consumer space and enterprises, there will be more compression of data in businesses, hitting future compute demand, he said.

Tech companies have announced massive spending plans this year for building data centres as they expect AI to fuel demand.

Klarna's gross merchandise volume (GMV), a commonly used e-commerce metric for measuring sales, rose 23% to $32.7 billion in the quarter.

In the U.S., Klarnas largest market, GMV grew 43% and revenue rose 51%.

Active customers rose 32% to 114 million from a year ago.

The company, however, reported a net loss of $95 million, compared with a profit of $12 million in the year-ago period, which it said was partly due to a shift to U.S. accounting principles following its New York listing.

In the current quarter, the company expects revenue of $1.07 billion, compared with expectations of $1.06 billion.

(Reporting by Supantha Mukherjee in Stockholm, editing by Terje Solsvik; Editing by Aidan Lewis)
Over the past month, security forces arrested multiple Israeli and Syrian civilians for their involvement in the network, which smuggled various types of weapons from Syria into Israel.

Several residents of northern Israel, including five reservists and active-duty IDF soldiers, were arrested for their involvement in a weapons smuggling network alongside several Syrian civilians, Israel Police announced in a joint statement with the IDF and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) on Wednesday.

Over the past month, security forces arrested multiple Israeli and Syrian civilians for their involvement in the network, which smuggled various types of weapons from Syria into Israel.

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During the investigation, it was also revealed that the soldiers had assisted in transporting the smuggled weapons to various criminal elements operating in northern Israel.

Network attempted transporting explosives, missiles, rifles

According to the statement, security forces discovered that just days before the group was arrested, the network had attempted to transport an unusually large shipment of weapons, including explosives, RPG missiles, assault rifles, and additional large quantities of ammunition.

Security forces also found that the intended recipient of the weapons was Rami Abu Shah, a Shfaram resident who had been involved with Syrian large-scale weapons trafficker Rawad Albaser.

One of the soldiers arrested has been named as Iyad Halabi, a 45-year-old master sergeant in the IDFs northern sector.

Indictments will be filed against each suspect involved following interrogation.
A Florida House panel voted to repeal the minimum age requirement to purchase a rifle that was imposed after a 2018 mass shooting at Parklands Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School killed 17.

The Criminal Justice subcommittee debated Nov. 18 and took public testimony for nearly an hour before voting 114 along party lines to advance the bill (HB 133) by House Majority Leader Tyler Sirois, R-Merritt Island.

But the bill's fate is questionable at best. It has no Senate companion and there's no sign the other chamber has an appetite to hear it should it pass the House.

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Sirois said the measure aligns gun rights for 18-year-olds with other constitutional rights such as voting, serving on a jury, getting elected to certain offices and military service.

"Allowing an 18-year-old the right to go out and purchase a long gun to defend themselves and their family and their property is wholly in keeping with the rights and privileges I have outlined," Sirois said.

Rep. Tyler Sirois stands for the National Anthem during opening day of the Florida legislative session on Tuesday, March 4, 2025.

Rep. Jessica Baker, R-Jacksonville, said the proposal corrects an inequity in Florida law where a teen can receive a rifle as a gift but otherwise cannot legally possess one.

"So we're saying you can defend yourself, but only if you have parents who can afford to give you a long gun. Eighteen to 20 year-olds are legally adults. They work full time, they pay taxes, they serve in the military. If it's legal for them to own the gun, they should be able to legally buy the gun," Baker said.

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The measure  coming less than a year after a 20-year-old Florida State University student opened fire on campus, killing two and injuring six others  continues a trend of loosening gun ownership restrictions in Florida.

Opponents call it 'recipe for disaster'

In the last two years, Second Amendment advocates persuaded the Florida Legislature to allow concealed carry without a permit, and in September an appeals court declared the state ban on open carry unconstitutional.

Mix those developments with this latest bill and Florida has "a recipe for a disaster," said Rep. Robin Bartleman, D-Weston, in a discussion of the proposal before the meeting.

Bartleman has served as an assistant principal in Liberty City, and was a Broward School Board member the year of the Parkland shooting. She was elected to the Florida House in 2020.

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Theres no reason an 18-year-old needs an AR 15, Bartleman said.

This is the fourth attempt by the House to repeal the minimum age requirement since it was approved seven years ago by the Legislature and then-Gov. Rick Scott.

Bartleman asked Sirois why he continues to file the bill over the objections of Parkland survivors and why he can't find a state senator to carry a companion bill. "It's an exercise in futility," Bartleman said.

Sirois did not respond and later brushed off questions about his bill from reporters. The Senate Presidents office declined to comment when asked if the chamber would consider the measure were it to pass the House.

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Democrats on the committee protested that the bill would put firearms in the hands of teenagers. The U.S. Department of Justice has found 18 -24 year-olds have the highest firearm homicide rate, and six of the nine deadliest mass shootings in the U.S. since 2018 were perpetrated by individuals aged 21 or younger.

"We have a duty to protect our communities, not expand access to those three times more likely to commit homicide," said Susan Gill of Tallahassee's Moms Demand Action chapter, after the committee advanced the measure.

Shooting survivors call bill 'slap in the face'

Samantha Mason, the 20-year-old president of the FSU chapter of the gun safety group Students Demand Action, called it tone deaf for Sirois to introduce the proposal so close in time to the April shooting at FSU.

After experiencing a lockdown on her high school campus and then a shooting at her college campus, she said the bill feels like "a slap in the face" to the FSU and Parkland survivors.

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This bill does nothing to prevent another tragedy. It makes another one more likely by allowing guns to be in the hands of school-aged youth," Mason said.

But the measure has momentum: Gov. Ron DeSantis supports a repeal, and Attorney General James Uthmeier declined to defend the requirement in a federal appeals court challenge by the National Rifle Association.

A staff analysis of the proposal found it may have a positive economic impact by making more individuals eligible to purchase firearms and ammunition.

The bill's next stop is the House Judiciary Committee. The 2026 regular session of the Florida Legislature begins Jan. 13.

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James Call is a member of the USA TODAY NETWORK-Florida Capital Bureau. He can be reached at jcall@tallahassee.com. Follow on him X: @CallTallahassee.

This article originally appeared on Tallahassee Democrat: Florida House advancing bill to lower rifle buying age
The video above aired July 24, 2024.

COLUMBIA, Conn. (WTNH)  A former Connecticut school employee and Columbia woman accused of sexually assaulting an 11-year-old boy pleaded guilty to federal charges on Tuesday, according to the Department of Justice.

PREVIOUS: Former Connecticut school employee accused of sexually assaulting 11-year-old boy now faces federal charge

Alyson Cranick, 44, pleaded guilty to federal charges of coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity.

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Cranick used text messaging, Snapchat and later Discord to coerce an 11-year-old boy to engage in sexually explicit conduct with her, according to documents and statements presented in court.

Several times during the summer and fall of 2022, Cranick coerced the boy to leave home after midnight to meet with her. She later sexually assaulted the boy. Investigators said Cranick and the minor victim shared over 4,700 messages on Discord between July and October 2022.

She was arrested on state charges on Nov. 14, 2023 and has be detained since Nov. 28, 2023. She was federally charged in July 2024.

Cranick will be sentenced on Feb. 12, 2026 where she faces a minimum term of 10 years in prison and a maximum term of life in prison.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WTNH.com.
DHAKA, Bangladesh (AP)  This week's sentencing to death of Bangladeshs former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina on charges of crimes against humanity is seen by her opponents as a chance to move forward for a nation traumatized by the scale of the violent uprising that drove her from power into exile.

Hasina has been in India since Aug. 5 last year, when her 15-year rule ended during the violence that left hundreds of people dead and thousands injured. She has rejected Monday's verdict, calling it biased and politically motivated.

Challenges are enormous for Bangladeshs interim government led by Nobel Peace Prize Laureate Muhammad Yunus, under pressure to hold a credible election in February after decades of rule by either Hasina or her longtime rival.

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Here's what to know.

A tense election ahead

Bangladesh's new leaders are determined to move the South Asian nation back to democracy through the upcoming election, one they have made sure won't include Hasina and her Awami League party. But emotions remain high.

The interim government has fully suppressed the Awami League  So the level of polarization is at a fever pitch, said analyst Michael Kugelman, a senior fellow with the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada.

The biggest concern is violence involving the election, he said.

Awami League spoilers may try to disrupt the election with unrest. And with Bangladeshs police force dealing with serious morale issues, there would be concerns about the states capacity to manage the violence, Kugelman said. Police in Bangladesh were on the frontlines of the deadly crackdown in 2024 and some in their ranks were killed after protesters attacked police stations.

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Hasinas son has warned that the party could try to block the election if the ban on its political activities is not lifted and that only an inclusive election could stabilize the country.

A long game for Hasina

India is unlikely to extradite Hasina, despite Bangladesh's renewed call for that following Mondays verdict.

Hasina will likely bide her time, continue to manage her partys affairs from India and play a long game with the hope of a return to politics if circumstances change in the coming years, Kugelman said. In the region, dynastic leaders and their parties may take hits, but they never go away."

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Analyst Sabir Mustafa, former head of BBC's Bengali Service, said that the Awami League could be seriously demoralized without Hasina's leadership, but that the party needs to reform if it wants to move forward.

So, Hasina needs to start the party's reforms herself, he said, indicating that she has to look to the future if she wants to eventually get back to politics.

Mustafa said the trial was seriously flawed and that a death sentence was unjust for a case held in absentia. Despite that, he said it would be a challenge to get her supporters and others out into the streets to protest anytime soon.

Mustafa said that without party reforms and new leadership under the guidance of Hasina, it would be difficult for the Awami League to make a comeback.

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Thats the kind of bullet they have to bite, he said.

New leader under pressure

Human rights groups and the U.N.'s High Commissioner for Human Rights have expressed mixed reactions to the verdict and trial process.

Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International raised questions of fairness in the trial process, while the U.N. rights body said the verdict was an important moment for victims of last year's crackdown that killed hundreds, although it remains opposed to the death penalty in all cases.

Given that, the Yunus-led administration will need to convince the international community about the credibility of the trial process.

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For Kugelman, Yunus' first priority  and his biggest challenge  is ensuring a safe and peaceful environment for the election.

These are high stakes polls: Its the first election in nearly 20 years in Bangladesh in which there are strong expectations that the vote will be free and fair. The January 2024 election, which swept Hasina to power for a fourth consecutive term, was boycotted by opposition parties and marked by violent protests and international scrutiny.

Mustafa said Yunus has already failed his legacy as a Nobel Peace Price laureate by presiding over many violations, including blatant mob justice, custodial deaths, blanket arrests and jailing of people, some without any specific and credible charges, especially among Hasina supporters.

But he thinks the international community will continue to support the interim leader.

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The challenge before him between now and February is to ensure that things run smoothly and the elections do happen in February in a peaceful and credible manner, Mustafa said.

He said that, given the electoral ban of the Awami League, Yunus should ensure the election is not rigged by the Bangladesh Nationalist Party, headed by former Prime Minister Khaleda Zia, or the country's largest Islamist party, Jamaat-e-Islami.

Thus he can revive his legacy as a Nobel Peace Prize laureate.
U.S. law enforcement leaders on Wednesday, Nov. 19 announced the indictment of a former Olympic snowboarder on murder and money laundering charges in connection to alleged drug trafficking into the United States.

Ryan James Wedding, 44, is wanted by the FBI in connection to a "transnational criminal enterprise," Attorney General Pam Bondi announced, calling the Canadian national a top threat to the United States and "one of the most prolific and violent drug trafficking organizers in the world."

Alongside FBI Director Kash Patel, Bondi made the joint announcement at the Department of Justice headquarters in Washington D.C. after the government unsealed an indictment against Wedding, charging him with witness intimidation, murder, and money laundering.

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A former Olympic snowboarder, Wedding is on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list for what Bondi called a murderous international drug trafficking operation.

A $15 million reward is being offered by the FBI for his capture.

Ryan Wedding, a Canadian national on the FBI's top 10 most wanted list

Wedding is currently the largest distributor of cocaine in Canada, Bondi said, and also reportedly traffics other illegal drugs including fentanyl while collaborating with the Mexican-based Sinaloa cartel, "who is closely protecting him."

Bondi said Wedding's organization is responsible for importing 60 metric tons of cocaine to the U.S. from Mexico each year, netting an annual billion dollar profit.

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"He's responsible for a narco terrorism program we have not seen in a long time," Patel told reporters. "You do not get to be a drug dealer and evade the law."

More than 35 people have been indicted so far in connection to the case, Patel added.

Wedding went from shredding powder on the slopes at the Olympics to distributing powder cocaine on the streets of U.S. cities and in his native Canada, said Akil Davis, the Assistant Director of the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office.

A surveillance photo of Ryan Wedding provided by the FBI. Wedding, a former Olympic snowboarder, was placed on the FBI's Ten Most Wanted list for running a murderous international drug trafficking operation.

Under Secretary of the Treasury for Terrorism and Financial Intelligence John K. Hurley called Wedding "one of the most notorious criminals and narcotraffickers still evading justice."

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"Treasury is joining with the FBI and the Department of Justice to cut Wedding and his criminal partners off from the U.S. financial system and help dismantle the network they rely on," Hurley said in a statement released Wednesday. "Our goal is simple: make it difficult for criminals like this to profit from poisoning our communities."

USA TODAY has reached out to the Canadian embassy.

Ryan Wedding indicted on murder, money laundering charges

Bondi said Wedding stands accused of killing a U.S. federal witness, who was gunned down in a restaurant in Medellin, Colombia, before he could testify against Wedding.

A $2 million reward is also being offered for info leading to those involved in the witness' murder.

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During the investigation, law enforcement recovered nearly $3.2 million in cryptocurrency and more than $13 million in physical assets, Bondi said.

"Drugs are killing our kids... our friends our relatives and this guy is responsible for a tremendous amount of that horror. We will not sit idly by," Bondi said. "The justice department will use every tool available to catch these monsters."

What is snowboarder Ryan Wedding charged with?

U.S. law enforcement leaders on Wednesday, Nov. 19 announced the indictment of a former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding (pictured) on murder and money laundering charges in connection to alleged drug trafficking into the United States

Federal officials said Wedding was indicted on the following charges:

Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine;

Conspiracy to export cocaine;

Conspiracy to commit murder in connection with a continuing criminal enterprise and drug crime

Murder in connection with a continuing criminal enterprise and drug crime;

Conspiracy to tamper with a witness, victim, or informant;

Tampering with a witness, victim, or informant;

Conspiracy to retaliate against a witness, victim, or informant;

Retaliation against a witness, victim, or informant;

Conspiracy to launder monetary instruments.

Anti-Trump demonstrators near the U.S. Capitol, protest issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S. Sept. 2, 2025. A person holds a placard with images of President Donald Trump and Jeffrey Epstein as they take part in the Make Billionaires Pay climate march and rally in New York City, on Sept. 20, 2025. Protestors gather outside the U.S. Capitol as House members hold a press conference along with alleged victims of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. This protestor hides behind her sign urging release of the Epstein files by the government. Protestors gather outside the U.S. Capitol as House members hold a press conference along with alleged victims of convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. A man who declined to be identified makes a sign urging the release of the Epstein files at Government Plaza to take part in the No Kings protest, a nationwide protest against the presidency of Donald Trump on Oct. 18, 2025, in Tuscaloosa, Alabama. An anti-Trump protester holding a mask depicting Jeffrey Epstein marches at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A banner of Jeffrey Epstein and President Donald Trump hangs in Grand Park during a protest against federal immigration enforcement in downtown Los Angeles, on Aug. 2, 2025. A demonstrator wearing an inflatable costume holds a sign that reads: "Epstein", during a "No Kings" protest against President Donald Trump's policies, in Washington, DC, on Oct. 18, 2025. Tallahassee resident Thomas Bivens attended the Oct. 18, 2025, No Kings protest in Tallahassee and held a sign reading, "Release the Epstein Files." A sign asks "Where are the Epstein files?" at the No Kings Rally, on Oct. 18, 2025, at Peace Park in Sheboygan, Wisconsin. Anti-Trump demonstrators march near the U.S. Capitol, protesting against issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A protester calling for a release of the Epstein files holds a sign while awaiting the arrival of Trump administration officials who are expected to discuss strategy amid the deepening political crisis over the administrations handling of files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, at the U.S. Naval Observatory, Vice President JD Vance's official residence, in Washington, DC, on Aug. 6, 2025. People hold signs on the day of a rally in support of Epstein's alleged victims, on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC, on Sept. 3, 2025. Anti-Trump demonstrators march near the U.S. Capitol, protesting against issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, on Sept. 2, 2025. A person rides a bicycle past a poster with a photograph of Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, protesting Trumps upcoming state visit to the UK, in London, on Sept. 3, 2025. Demonstrators carry placards with images depicting President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, during a "No Kings" protest against Trump's policies, in New York City on Oct. 18, 2025. A large banner depicting President Donald Trump alongside disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein is displayed near Windsor Castle by campaign group "Everyone Hates Elon," protesting Trump's state visit to the country, in Windsor, Britain, Sept. 15, 2025. A person walks next to a mobile Ad Van that displays photographs of President Donald Trump and disgraced financier and sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, in protest of Trump in Aberdeen, Scotland,on July 28, 2025. American, British protesters tie Donald Trump to Jeffrey Epstein 1 of 19 Anti-Trump demonstrators near the U.S. Capitol, protest issues including the Jeffrey Epstein case and the increased presence of military and federal law enforcement in the DC area ordered by President Donald Trump, in Washington, DC, U.S. Sept. 2, 2025.

When did Ryan Wedding compete in the Olympics?

Representing Canada, Wedding competed in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Utah.

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He performed in the men's parallel giant slalom event, where he finished in 24th place.

When will the Epstein files be released? Here's what to know.

Have you seen Ryan Wedding?

Law enforcement described Wedding as a white man, standing 6 feet 4 inches and weighing 230-250 pounds.

He is known to frequent Mexico, officials said, speaks English and Spanish, and is thought to be hiding in Mexico.

Anyone with information about Wedding's whereabouts is asked to call 1-800-CALLFBI or visit tipsfbi.gov.

Pam Bondi recognizes family and friends in attendance as she delivers opening remarks during a Senate Judiciary committee hearing on her nomination to be Attorney General of the United States on Jan. 15, 2025 in Washington, D.C.

This story has been updated to add new information.

Natalie Neysa Alund is a senior reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at nalund@usatoday.com and follow her on X @nataliealund

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Ryan Wedding indicted, facing drug, murder charges
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court declined Nov. 19 to review former Somerset County District Attorney Jeffrey Lynn Thomas's 2023 conviction of sexual assault.

The states highest court did so after the state Superior Court affirmed his conviction. The Superior Court panel agreed with the state Office of the Attorney General, which won the conviction, that the trial was fair and the jurys verdict aligned with the evidence.

Thomas was convicted by a jury on six charges, including indecent assault and strangulation, and sentenced to 2 to 7 years in state prison.

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An investigation by the attorney general's office found that on the night of the incident, Thomas entered the victims home in Windber and refused to leave, ultimately beating and sexually assaulting her.

We are pleased that the defendants latest attempt to evade accountability for this attack has failed, Attorney General Dave Sunday said in a media release. Since his first post-conviction filing, we have argued  and courts have agreed that the trial process in this case was proper and that the jury considered overwhelming evidence to convict.

Thomas, 40, is currently serving his sentence in SCI Waymart. Upon release, he is required to register his whereabouts with police as a sex offender for 15 years.

Senior Deputy Attorney General Tracy Piatkowski represented the commonwealth on the appeal. Chief Deputy General Patrick Schulte and Senior Deputy Attorney General Tomm Mutschler prosecuted the case.

This article originally appeared on The Daily American: Former Somerset DA loses sexual assault conviction appeal
(New Mexico prairie)

NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  Who the heck thought it was a good idea to build it where they built it? asks State Representative Gail Armstrong. We dont know who chose a remote spot on the New Mexico prairie for a taxpayer-funded, multi-million-dollar tourist attraction. What we do know, however, is that when it was plopped down amidst the creosote and mesquite south of Socorro, it became a case study for misguided and ill-conceived government waste.

Welcome to the El Camino Real Heritage Center, a history museum dedicated to the Royal Road of the Interior. Established by Spanish conquistadors, the historic byway extended from Mexico City to north of Santa Fe.

The Royal Road was in use for three centuries; however, the museum lasted barely a decade. Due to shoddy planning, it had few visitors, meager revenue, expensive maintenance, and inadequate infrastructure. Nine years after it opened, the monument was closed, artifacts packed away, exhibits dismantled, and the gift shop emptied. Today, all there is to show for taxpayers hugely expensive museum complex are abandoned buildings 40 miles from nowhere. The museum site is in State House District 49, represented by Legislator Gail Armstrong. The Republican lawmaker refers to the museum as a complete waste of taxpayer dollars.

El Camino Real Heritage Center El Camino Heritage Center (Courtesy of Friends of the Camino Real) . El Camino Heritage Center (Courtesy of Friends of the Camino Real) El Camino Heritage Center (Courtesy of Friends of the Camino Real) Picture of cart in El Camino Heritage Center (Courtesy of Friends of the Camino Real)

On paper, this didnt look like a project that should (have been) funded. This is not how government is supposed to work, said economic development expert John Garcia. Garcia served in state cabinet posts under two governors.



To understand how this happened, you need to take a close look at the state legislature and how it spends public money. Most legislative appropriations undergo checks and balances that include open hearings and debate. But there are exceptions. In fact, each year tens of millions of dollars are doled out behind closed doors. Its called Capital Outlay, a legislative system that allows individual lawmakers to allocate public money for infrastructure projects. Under Capital Outlay, ventures are funded without justification, feasibility studies, planning, hearings, or debate.

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Consider the Onate Visitor Center in the northern New Mexico village of Alcalde. State lawmakers blindly allocated almost $2,000,000 for a colossal monument and bigger than life statue honoring notorious Spanish conquistador Juan de Onate. At the time, no one questioned the extravagant appropriation. However, today, the multi-million dollar monolith and statue will likely go down in legislative history as an ill-advised waste of taxpayer money. Plagued by a lack of planning, vandalism, and remote location, the state-owned visitor center opened in 1994 and closed a few years later.

Juan de Onate Monument Juan de Onate Statue

They built a big facility in northern New Mexico on a road that didnt have a lot of traffic. It was the theory, build it and they will come. However, nobody came, said Governor Gary Johnsons Secretary of Tourism John Garcia. I sold it on behalf of (state) government for a dollar back to (Rio Arriba County) because we couldnt afford to operate the facility, there was nothing in it, Garcia said.



Since the visitor center was shut down seventeen years ago, the building has been leased by Rio Arriba County to a charter school, flea market, yoga studio, and, now, a chicken feed and macaroni manufacturing operation.

(El Camino Real Heritage Center)

And then theres the El Camino Real museum. Armed with $4,000,000 from the state legislature and the Bureau of Land Management, consultants were hired to find the best place to build the museum. After studying various locations, the consulting firm suggested a remote spot on the prairie 37 miles south of Socorro. The experts said, build there and the museum will draw 100,000 visitors a year, bring in $10,000,000 to the region and create 174 new jobs. At the time, no one raised a red flag about putting a tourist attraction in an out-of-the-way location. It was only after construction was complete that officials learned the so-called experts were dead wrong. The project was doomed to fail before it even opened its doors.

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I dont think theres any good excuse or any rationale for anybody to try to defend a project like this. From the beginning, it should have been scrutinized for its efficacy, its benefit to the public, and none of that was done, former cabinet secretary John Garcia said.



So what do you do with a $4,000,000 deserted building in the middle of nowhere? Time and vandals have taken a toll. The museum was closed eight years ago, and then state officials abandoned the site. Because little effort was made to secure the empty building, today, it is no longer habitable. Copper wiring has been stolen. There is significant structural damage, mold, a rodent infestation, and no electricity or lights. Most of the HVAC, electrical, plumbing, water, and septic systems are either obsolete or inoperable. Now, Cultural Affairs officials are faced with two options: Either repair the building at an estimated cost of $3,500,000 or tear it down and restore the site to prairie. Price tag for demolition? $840,000.

Copper wiring stolen from El Camino Real Heritage Center. Copper wiring stolen from El Camino Real Heritage Center. Copper wiring stolen from El Camino Real Heritage Center. Structural damage at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Structural damage at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Structural damage at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Structural damage at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Rodent infestation at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Rodent infestation at El Camino Real Heritage Center. HVAC equipment inoperable or obsolete at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Water and septic systems are either obsolete or inoperable at El Camino Real Heritage Center. Wate and septic tanks either inoperable or obsolete at El Camino Real Heritage Center.

New Mexico Historic Sites Division Director Anne McCuddin said to leave the building and do nothing is not an option. We will certainly learn from this, take those mistakes, and learn from them. Thats about what we can get out of it. There obviously isnt any value to the building, McCuddin said.



The El Camino Real Heritage Center complex is owned by the Museum of New Mexicos Board of Regents. It was an expensive mistake. Now its up to the Board of Regents to sadly make a decision on that historic site: Whether to repair it, its in terrible disrepair, and thats very concerning, or, to demolish it, Museum Board of Regents President Dr. George Goldstein said. Thats going to become the most important decision we make all this year, Dr. Goldstein said. The Museum Regents will decide on the future of the El Camino Real property at its next meeting on December 4 at the Museum of International Folk Art in Santa Fe.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
A friend of Ana Walshe is reacting to two bombshell guilty pleas from Brian Walshe on the first day of jury selection in his trial.

Brian Walshe is maintaining his innocence in the murder of his wife and the mother of his three children.

He changed his plea to guilty on two charges  disposing a body and misleading police.

Brian Walshe was not sentenced on the two charges he pleaded guilty to.

The judge said family members of Ana Walshe have asked to address the court before sentencing.

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We want the come clean moment, heres what happened, and Im sorry it happened, said friend Peter Raider. I dont know if that ever happens. That would be the hope right now.

Raider was first introduced to Ana by her former boss in the real estate industry and recalls her making an instant impression.

There was never a moment where she said something couldnt be done, Raider told Boston 25 News. Were talking about a beautiful person whos no longer with us.

Prosecutors allege Walshe was caught on video purchasing cleaning supplies and tools from Home Depot.

Investigators have said he used those items to dismember the body before dumping it.

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Authorities uncovered a hacksaw with a fragment of bone on it in a dumpster by Walshes moms home on the North Shore.

According to prosecutors, Walshe used his sons iPad to research how to get rid of a body.

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Funeral services were held Tuesday for a San Bernardino County sheriff's deputy who was gunned down last month before the suspect led authorities on a high-speed motorcycle chase.

Deputy Andrew Nunez was honored with a morning procession before the funeral, which was held at the Toyota Arena in Ontario.

During the service, Nunez's wife, Roxana, remembered him as "an incredible father, a loving partner and the kind of man who made life feel safe and easy."

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"He was ambitious and fearless, always pushing himself to grow," Roxana told those inside the arena. "Yet, he had the softest heart when it came to our family."

San Bernardino County Sheriff Shannon Dicus called Nunez a "true law enforcement hero."

"Andrew Nunez knew his purpose, and he performed with courage and unquestionable commitment so that others could live," Dicus said.

About 8,000 first responders and members of law enforcement were in attendance.

While the funeral was not open to the public, members of the community were invited to pay their respects along the procession route.

Nunez was responding to a domestic dispute on Oct. 27 when the suspect, 47-year-old Angelo Jose Saldivar, allegedly opened fire, authorities said.

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Prosecutors said Saldivar had been involved in a violent argument with his ex-wife outside of a Rancho Cucamonga condominium complex.

Funeral services will be held for a sheriff's deputy who was gunned down before the suspect led authorities on a high-speed chase.

On Nov. 5, he pleaded not guilty to charges of attempted kidnapping and false imprisonment of his ex-wife.

Saldivar also faces four counts of assault with a deadly weapon. Authorities said several of the victims were neighbors or bystanders who called 911 for help.

"Most of those other victims were actually reporting parties that were calling in to 911, and in some of those instances, you can actually hear in the 911 call some of the shots that were fired," Anderson said.

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After the shooting, investigators said Saldivar fled on a motorcycle, leading deputies on a high-speed chase along the 210 Freeway before being stopped by an off-duty narcotics deputy, who used a maneuver that ended the pursuit, forcing Saldivar to crash into the center divider.

Nunez, a six-year veteran of the sheriff's department, is survived by his wife, their two-year-old daughter, and his wife is expecting the couple's second child.
RIO DE JANEIRO (AP)  Criminal gangs expanded their presence in the Brazilian Amazon last year and are now operating in nearly half of the regions municipalities, according to a report published Wednesday by a prominent nonprofit organization.

The growth of these crime groups in the region, where U.N. climate talks are currently taking place, is driving violence and threatens the preservation of the worlds largest tropical rainforest, according to the Brazilian Forum on Public Safety.

Organized crime groups are now active in 344 municipalities out of 772, or some 45%, the nonprofit said. Thats a jump of 32% from last years report when they were present in 260, and more than double from two years ago.

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The Red Command drug trafficking gang has more than doubled its presence since 2023. The notorious crime group was the target of Rios most lethal police operation ever on Oct. 28, when 121 people died.

The raid in Rio sparked a nationwide discussion on organized crime in Brazil, and on Tuesday evening the countrys lower house approved a bill that proposes an increase in the severity of sentences for gang membership.

These crime groups are seeking to diversify and maximize their illegal activities," David Marques, one of the reports authors, told The Associated Press. In addition to drug-trafficking, theres been an increase of extortion and environmental crimes, such as illegal logging and mining, he said.

With more criminal gangs come territorial disputes, weapons and violence, Marques said. There were 8,047 slayings in the region in 2024, a rate of 27.3 killings per 100,000 inhabitants, 31% higher than the national average, the group said.

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In addition to Red Command and its main rival, First Capital Command, there are some 17 other criminal gangs operation in the region, also including Venezuelas Tren de Aragua, a target of military attacks by U.S. President Donald Trumps administration.

The Rio-based Red Command has dominated river routes in coordination with Peruvian and Colombian cartels. Drugs flow to strategic ports such as Manaus, Santarem, Barcarena, Macapa and Belem  where Brazil is hosting COP30.

Meanwhile, the Sao Paulo-based First Capital Command has focused on using clandestine airstrips in remote areas that are tied to illegal mining, the group said.

The group's director, Renato Sergio de Lima, said in a statement that combating organized crime in the Amazon will require a focus on alternate ways of developing the region besides predatory exploitation of resources.

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The bill approved by the lower house on Tuesday would boost sentences for certain crimes when the defendant also is a member of a gang, for example increasing the 6-to-20-year recommended sentence for intentional homicide to 20-to-40 years. It also would allow authorities to seize assets even before a case's final judgement and oblige gang leaders to carry out their time behind bars in maximum-security federal prisons.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva has lamented on X that the legislation has been weakened because of proposed budget cuts to the federal police. The bill is now headed for the Senate, where it is likely to be modified, though some compromise version is likely to pass the congress eventually because crime has become a top concern of voters.



Follow the APs coverage of Latin America and the Caribbean at https://apnews.com/hub/latin-america
Black Horse Offshore said the changes came into force on 13 November [BBC]

A subsidiary of Lloyds Bank has announced it is no longer offering new vehicle loans to customers in the Crown dependencies.

Black Horse Offshore said, with the exception of the vehicle loans, its other lending products would now be provided by its parent company.

A spokesperson said a "small number" of staff in Jersey, Guernsey and the Isle of Man would be affected by the changes.

Existing motor finance customers would continue to be serviced until their contracts ended, but no additional borrowing on existing loans would be offered, the company said.

It said as a result of the move the Black Horse brand would cease to exist in the Crown dependencies.

Black Horse Offshore is owned by the Lloyds Banking Group [BBC]

Lloyds Banking Group said the changes formed part of its plans for business growth.

"To achieve the ambitious strategy that we launched in February 2022 and deliver better service to our customers, we are transforming our business," the spokesperson said.

"We are pleased with the progress we have made and this latest change, to streamline and drive efficiencies in our Crown dependencies business, will enable us to enhance the products and services that we offer our clients and customers."

Customers were advised to contact the company in the usual way with any questions or to talk about their loans or changes to their personal circumstances.

The spokesperson said affected staff in the Crown dependencies were being supported.

"We continue to work collaboratively with our recognised unions on changes impacting our colleagues," they said.

Follow BBC Guernsey on X and Facebook. Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to channel.islands@bbc.co.uk.

More on this story
A former FBI intelligence specialist who spent more than 16 years inside the bureau is suing FBI Director Kash Patel, Attorney General Pam Bondi, the FBI, and the Department of Justice, alleging he was unlawfully fired for displaying a Progress Pride flag.

Keep up with the latest in LGBTQ+ news and politics. Sign up for The Advocates email newsletter.

The 18-page complaint, filed Wednesday in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, asserts that David M. Maltinsky was summarily dismissed from the FBI Academy on October 1, 2025, just three weeks before he was scheduled to graduate as a special agent. He alleges the termination was unconstitutional and politically motivated, arguing that Patel targeted him for protected expression and for being a proud gay man.

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Related: Decorated agent trainee fired over Pride flag warns new Lavender Scare is spreading like wildfire at FBI

Related: Angry Democratic lawmakers slam despicable Kash Patel for firing FBI agent over LGBTQ+ Pride flag

According to the lawsuit, the dismissal came without warning. Maltinsky had completed 16 of the FBI Academys 19-week Basic Field Training Course and had passed all major legal and physical benchmarks. That night, he was escorted to an executive suite and handed a letter signed by Patel stating he was being removed under my authority as FBI Director for an inappropriate display of political signage during his previous assignment at the Los Angeles Field Office, the complaint states. The only signage he displayed, his lawyers wrote, was the Progress Pride flag.

The lawsuit quotes the dismissal letter directly. Patel wrote, I have determined that you exercised poor judgment with an inappropriate display of political signage in your work area. The complaint argues that this justification was pretextual and discriminatory, noting that the FBI routinely allowed agents to display Blue Line flags, Gadsden flags, and Punisher imagery at their workstations.

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Related: FBI tells employees not to celebrate Pride Month in official capacity or on bureau time

The lawsuit describes it as a clear and brazen violation of federal law and the Constitution. It states that Maltinskys display of the Pride flag did not violate any FBI rules, policies, or proceduresand instead was approved by his leadership.

Maltinsky contends that the flag held deep personal significance. The complaint notes that in 2021, after the Progress Pride flag flew outside the Wilshire Federal Building during Pride Month, leadership gave the flags to him in special recognition of his efforts to improve the FBI.

Christopher M. Mattei, lead counsel for Maltinsky, said in a press release that his clients dream to serve the country has been taken from him. "Kash Patels and Pam Bondis continued unlawful attacks on the FBI and skilled public servants like David endanger the American people more and more every day," he said. "This case is about far more than one mans careerits about whether the government can punish Americans simply for saying who they are. Thanks to Davids courage, Patel and Bondi will be held to account for their unconstitutional assault on Americans who simply want to serve their country as they are.

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The FBI did not immediately respond to The Advocates request for comment.

Luke Schleusener, CEO of Out in National Security, previously condemned the firing, calling it a clear act of bias and a warning to public servants and allies who believe they should be free to show support for LGBTQIA+ Americans at work. He told The Advocate in October that in a free society, government employees should never fear retaliation for such a simple act of solidarity and pride.

The lawsuit lands amid intense scrutiny of Patels leadership. As The Advocate previously reported in May, Patel barred official Pride commemorations and ordered that LGBTQ+ inclusion efforts move outside official FBI channels. The shift alarmed civil rights advocates and drew comparisons to the lavender scare, earlier periods of federal LGBTQ+ purges.

The lawsuit asks the court to reinstate Maltinsky, award back pay, and rule that the government cannot punish employees for LGBTQ+ identity or expression.

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This article originally appeared on Advocate: Gay former FBI official sues Kash Patel & Pam Bondi for Pride flag firing

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A company operating several desalination plants in the Gaza Strip said on Wednesday it had resumed work after clarifying the fate of an employee detained by Hamas security forces.

Eta, which supplies clean water to more than 1 million people in the territory, had temporarily halted operations a day earlier in protest at the employee being taken into custody.

In a statement, the company said inquiries and communication with the authorities had "clarified" the circumstances of the detention, describing it as a "misunderstanding."

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No further details were given. The employee was in good condition, the company said, adding that the matter had been resolved "in the spirit of understanding."

Eta apologized and said it respected the Hamas-run authorities in Gaza. Hamas has not commented on the incident.

The Islamist group has reasserted control over many areas of Gaza since a ceasefire with Israel went into effect over a month ago.

Public protest against it is rare, and it is known for cracking down harshly on internal dissent.
Germany's military, the Bundeswehr, could be allowed to help domestic security agencies protect against drone incursions under a draft bill passed by the Cabinet in Berlin on Wednesday.

The planned reform of the Air Security Act, which requires parliamentary approval, aims to provide a legal framework for military interventions in Germany's skies.

Under Germany's constitution, the Basic Law, the Bundeswehr's domestic operations during peacetime are tightly regulated.

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However, a series of recent sightings of drones around critical infrastructure in Germany and other EU countries has led Chancellor Friedrich Merz's government to act.

The draft states that the Bundeswehr could intervene with force or other means, such as jamming technology, against uncooperative drones  but only if a drone is believed to pose a threat to human life or critical infrastructure and no other means can avert the danger.

The reform would also allow federal police to request technical assistance from the military, including the limited use of military equipment under defined conditions.

While most of the measures target threats associated with Russia, the draft also addresses radical activists who disrupt air traffic on runways or aprons.

Such incidents, including demonstrations by climate protesters, have so far been treated as administrative offences, but would in future be classified as criminal acts.
BERLIN (Reuters) -Germany will expand its security infrastructure in space to better protect its interests in a sphere where countries are already competing for dominance, said the foreign and defence ministers in a joint statement published on Wednesday.

The two ministries presented their new space security strategy to the cabinet on Wednesday, in which they commit to a peaceful, rules-based use of space while also pledging to build a space infrastructure strong enough to serve as a deterrent.

Germany's defence ministry alone plans to invest 35 billion euros ($40 billion) in space over the next few years, and the German military will form the backbone of the space strategy, said Defence Minister Boris Pistorius in the statement.

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The strategy sets the framework for how Germany can better protect itself, said Pistorius, for example against the GPS signal disruptions by Russia in the Baltic Sea region.

"Space has long been an arena for military conflicts and economic competition, as demonstrated most recently by Russia's war of aggression against Ukraine," said Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul in the same statement.

"The race for dominance in space is in full swing. It is therefore all the more important that Germany protects its interests," he added.

($1 = 0.8639 euros)

(Reporting by Miranda Murray; editing by Matthias Williams)
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing a severe backlash in Brazil over comments made following his visit to the Amazonian city of Belem, the host city for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30).

During a visit to Shanghai on Wednesday, Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil admitted that Merz's remarks have caused "irritation," with Brazilian media and politicians voicing their outrage.

The German leader travelled to Belem for a summit two weeks ago ahead of the annual climate negotiations.

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On his return to Berlin, Merz said he had asked journalists who travelled with him to Brazil whether any of them wanted to stay in Belem.

"No one raised their hand," Merz said. He argued that the reporters were "happy" to return to Germany, which he described as "one of the most beautiful countries in the world."

In response, Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said Merz should have gone to a bar in Belem, danced and tried out the local cuisine.

"Then he would have realized that Berlin does not even offer him 10% of the quality that the state of Para and the city of Belem provide," Lula charged.

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Other Brazilian politicians were not so restrained. Eduardo Paes, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, reportedly called Merz a "son of Hitler" and a "Nazi" in a post on X that he later deleted.

Klingbeil tried to play down the controversy on Wednesday, arguing that "the chancellor's visit to Belem was a very successful one."

However, the remarks could overshadow Merz's pledge that Germany will contribute to Lula's landmark new rainforest fund, the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF).
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is facing a severe backlash in Brazil over comments made following his visit to the Amazonian city of Belem, the host city for the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30).

During a visit to Shanghai on Wednesday, Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil admitted that Merz's remarks have caused "irritation," with Brazilian media and politicians voicing their outrage.

The German leader travelled to Belem for a summit two weeks ago ahead of the annual climate negotiations.

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The poor city in the northern state of Para was chosen by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to reflect the importance of the Amazon to global climate policy.

On his return to Berlin, Merz said he had asked journalists who travelled with him to Brazil whether any of them wanted to stay in Belem.

"No one raised their hand," Merz said. He argued that the reporters were "happy" to return to Germany, which he described as "one of the most beautiful countries in the world."

In response, Lula said Merz should have gone to a bar in Belem, danced and tried out the local cuisine.

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"Then he would have realized that Berlin does not even offer him 10% of the quality that the state of Para and the city of Belem provide," Lula charged.

Other Brazilian politicians were not so restrained. Eduardo Paes, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, reportedly called Merz a "son of Hitler" and a "Nazi" in a post on X that he later deleted.

The Diario do Centro do Mundo news portal wrote of an "outrageous comparison," while Belem's mayor described Merz's remarks as "unfortunate, arrogant and biased."

Klingbeil tried to play down the controversy on Wednesday, arguing that "the chancellor's visit to Belem was a very successful one."

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However, the remarks could overshadow Merz's pledge that Germany will contribute to Lula's landmark new rainforest fund, the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF).

German opposition unimpressed

German opposition parties were also unimpressed by Merz's remarks.

"One is beginning to wonder whether the chancellor can still make an appearance anywhere without putting Germany in a difficult position," said Katharina Droge from the Greens. "The image the chancellor presented during his trip to Brazil was disastrous: tactless in foreign policy, unambitious in climate policy and simply disrespectful towards Brazil."

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Violetta Bock, from The Left, said "Germany is embarrassing itself on the international stage" and called on the chancellor to apologize. "Merz's statements about Brazil are disrespectful, condescending and prejudiced," she said.

Frustration also emerged within Merz's coalition partners in the Social Democratic Party (SPD).

SPD lawmaker Isabel Cademartori said the comments play into "the stereotype of the 'arrogant German.'"

Environment Minister Carsten Schneider, also from the SPD, took a different tune, expressly praising Belem as a "great city.".

"I saw a tremendous amount of commitment, wonderful people, but also a lot of poverty," said the minister, who is involved in the ongoing climate negotiations. "This place not only highlights the outstanding importance of rainforests, it also encourages the international community to consider social issues and climate issues together."
Greece is looking to set up repatriation centres for irregular migrants outside the EU and sees Germany as a potential partner, Migration and Asylum Minister Thanos Plevris said on Wednesday.

Speaking on state broadcaster ERTnews, Plevris said the centres would accommodate migrants who cannot be returned to their home countries.

"We are already in talks with safe African countries that could take in illegal migrants," Plevris said. He added that Germany had launched a "serious initiative" and Greece had officially expressed interest.

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In response to an enquiry, the German Interior Ministry said it was working on a process to establish so-called return hubs while a comprehensive legal framework is currently being developed at the European level. The ministry did not provide further details about talks with other EU or third countries.

According to the Greek minister, the repatriation centres should comprise two categories. The first category would be secure facilities under EU control, in which the African partner countries would provide support.

The second category would concern countries that are considered less safe, such as Libya, where migrants could also be accommodated.

According to Plevris, the repatriation centres would have a "strong deterrent effect" and reduce illegal migration over the long term.
Gov. Gavin Newsom said California's redistricting would counter Texas' rare mid-decade redistricting push. That doesn't mean California is turning back after a federal court in Texas blocked the state's recently redrawn congressional map from going into effect for the 2026 midterm elections.

Tuesday's court ruling came weeks after California voters formally approved a ballot measure that was introduced to counteract Texas' redistricting. The California measure originally included trigger language that said the state would only redraw its congressional map in response to a similar move by a Republican-led state, but legislators removed the language before voters went to the polls.

"Donald Trump and Greg Abbott played with fire, got burned and democracy won," Newsom wrote on X Tuesday following the court ruling. "This ruling is a win for Texas, and for every American who fights for free and fair elections."

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Paul Mitchell, whose firm was hired to draw California's congressional districts, posted on social media that the maps will be staying in place.

"The trigger language was removed in the legislative process as it was clear that TX was redistricting. So, even if their map is invalidated/postponed, the Prop 50 maps stay in place," Mitchell wrote.

Earlier this year, Texas lawmakers redrew their congressional maps in a rare mid-decade redistricting effort, which kicked off after President Trump pushed for new congressional district boundaries that could help secure five Republican-friendly seats.

The move set off a redistricting battle across the U.S., with Newsom  a potential 2028 presidential candidate  leading an effort to neutralize potential Republican gains in Texas by redrawing California's own congressional lines to net up to five seats for Democrats.

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In August, California lawmakers approved several bills to redraw the state's congressional map to potentially make five Republican-held congressional districts more favorable to Democrats. Because the measures required changes to the state's constitution, they had to be put before voters in a special election.

Earlier this month, California voters overwhelmingly approved Proposition 50, setting the stage for newly-drawn congressional maps for the 2026 midterms.

California lawmakers removed trigger clause

When California state lawmakers initially introduced their redistricting legislation, it included a trigger clause under which California would only redraw its congressional map in response to a similar move by a Republican state.

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Under that trigger language, California's redistricting map would "become operative only if Texas, Florida, or another state adopts a new congressional district map that takes effect after Aug. 1, 2025, and before Jan. 1, 2031, and such redistricting is not required by a federal court order."

However, the trigger clause was removed just before California lawmakers voted on the redistricting bills. Without that trigger language, as it stands now, the Texas ruling does not impact California's redrawn map.

During an August press conference, Newsom was asked if California would move forward with Proposition 50 even if a court were to strike down Texas' maps.

"We're moving forward," Newsom responded. "Texas moved forward. Texas acted. Texas is moving forward. You're suggesting, people are suggesting. Texas is not going to move forward because of what we just did? Come on."

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The Trump administration has sued California over its new congressional lines. A hearing is scheduled for Dec 3.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration denounced the ruling striking down Texas' maps. Texas on Tuesday afternoon appealed the ruling striking down its maps to the U.S. Supreme Court.

"We strongly disagree with today's district court ruling on Texas's redistricting map - Texas's map was drawn the right way for the right reasons," Attorney General Pam Bondi wrote on X. "We look forward to Texas's victory at the Supreme Court."

According to Justin Levitt, a professor at Loyola Law School in Los Angeles, the ruling invalidating Texas maps would not have an effect on California's redistricting efforts given the facts that were considered by the court.

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"Texas maps were struck down by the court based on how Texas actually drew the lines, and that has very little to do with how California drew their lines," Levitt told CBS News.

In the Texas ruling, in a 2-1 decision, federal judges found "substantial evidence" that "Texas racially gerrymandered the 2025 map." The court considered a letter that the Justice Department sent to Texas lawmakers in July stating the state's 2021 map was "unconstitutional" because it included four congressional districts where no ethnic group had an outright majority, concluding that the state must therefore dismantle and redraw its lines.

The court found this to be a "legally incoherent assertion."

"California didn't do anything like that," Levitt said. "California drew districts overwhelmingly for partisan reasons and there's actually nothing that the litigants in California have pointed to that indicates that California focused predominantly or excessively based on race."

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The Supreme Court is expected to weigh in on a dispute over Louisiana's congressional map and whether race can be used as a factor when drawing districts. In October, justices appeared poised to weaken a key provision, Section 2, of the Voting Rights Act that has allowed the consideration of race when drawing districts, and has been used to ensure minority voters have the opportunity to elect their preferred candidates.

This could lead to more redistricting efforts as states eliminate race as a factor for their standing congressional voting lines.

"It is terribly disturbing that this is where we are at," Texas Democratic state Rep. Ramon Romero told CBS News. "A point where communities that have been so grossly underrepresented for basically our entirety of the history of our country and now that there's growth in opportunity, there's growth in education, there's growth in representation, those wealthy billionaires that are manipulating our country for their benefit have won at the expense of so many families and people of color."

Romero was among the Texas lawmakers who broke quorum in August by leaving the state in attempts to block the GOP-backed congressional maps. Though he says today's ruling was a victory for Democrats, much remains to be determined after the Supreme Court weighs in.

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The timing of a Supreme Court decision is unknown, but the clock is ticking for Texas. Congressional candidates have until Dec. 8 to file to run for next year's midterm election and appear on the primary ballot set for March.

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Whether called homeschooling or DIY education, family-directed learning has been growing in popularity for years in the U.S. alongside disappointment in the rigidity, politicization, and flat-out poor results of traditional public schools. That growth was supercharged during the COVID-19 pandemic when extended closures and bumbled remote learning drove many families to experiment with teaching their own kids. The big question was whether the end of public health controls would also curtail interest in homeschooling. We know now that it didn't. Americans' taste for DIY education is on the rise.

Homeschooling Grows at Triple the Pre-Pandemic Rate

"In the 2024-2025 school year, homeschooling continued to grow across the United States, increasing at an average rate of 5.4%," Angela Watson of the Johns Hopkins University School of Education's Homeschool Hub wrote earlier this month. "This is nearly three times the pre-pandemic homeschooling growth rate of around 2%." She added that more than a third of the states from which data is available report their highest homeschooling numbers ever, even exceeding the peaks reached when many public and private schools were closed during the pandemic.

After COVID-19 public health measures were suspended, there was a brief drop in homeschooling as parents and families returned to old habits. That didn't last long. Homeschooling began surging again in the 2023-2024 school year, with that growth continuing last year. Based on numbers from 22 states (not all states have released data, and many don't track homeschoolers), four report declines in the ranks of homeschooled childrenDelaware, the District of Columbia, Hawaii, and Tennesseewhile the others report growth from around 1 percent (Florida and Louisiana) to as high as 21.5 percent (South Carolina).

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The latest figures likely underestimate growth in homeschooling since not all DIY families abide by registration requirements where they exist, and because families who use the portable funding available through increasingly popular Education Savings Accounts to pay for homeschooling costs are not counted as homeschoolers in several states, Florida included. As a result, adds Watson, "we consider these counts as the minimum number of homeschooled students in each state."

Recent estimates put the total homeschooling population at about 6 percent of students across the United States, compared to about 3 percent pre-pandemic. Continued growth necessarily means the share of DIY-educated students is increasing. That's quite a change for an education approach that was decidedly not mainstream just a generation ago.

"This isn't a pandemic hangover; it's a fundamental shift in how American families are thinking about education," comments Watson.

Students Flee Traditional Public Schools for Alternatives

Homeschooling is a major beneficiary of changing education preferences among American families, but it's not the only one.

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"Five years after the pandemic's onset, there has been a substantial shift away from public schools and toward non-public options," Boston University's Joshua Goodman and Abigail Francis wrote last summer for Education Next. Looking at Massachusettsnot the friendliest regulatory environment for alternatives to traditional public schoolingthey found that as the state's school-age population shrank by 2.6 percent since 2019, there has been a 4.2 percent decline in local public-school enrollment, a 0.7 decline in private-school enrollment, and a 56 percent increase in homeschooling. "Charter school enrollment is flat, due in part to regulatory limitations in Massachusetts," they added.

In research published in August, Dylan Council, Sofoklis Goulas, and Faidra Monachou of the Brookings Institution found similar results at the national level. "The COVID-19 pandemic forced millions of families to rethink where and how their children learn, and the effects continue to reshape American K-12 education," they observed. If "parents keep choosing alternatives at the pace observed since 2020, traditional public schools could lose as many as 8.5 million students, shrinking from 43.06 million in 2023-24 to as few as 34.57 million by mid-century."

It's not difficult to figure out what pushes parents to seek out alternatives and to flock to the various forms of DIY education grouped under the homeschooling heading.

Disappointment in Public Schools Drives the Shift

"The fraction of parents saying K-12 education is heading in the wrong direction was fairly stable from 2019 to 2022 but rose in 2023 and then again in 2024 to its highest level in a decade, suggesting continuing or even growing frustration with schools," commented Goodman and Francis.

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Specifically, EdChoice's Schooling in America survey puts the percentage of school parents saying that K-12 education is headed in the right direction at 41 percentdown from 48 percent in 2022 (the highest score recorded). Fifty-nine percent say K-12 education is on the wrong trackup from 52 percent in 2021 (the lowest score recorded).

When asked if they are satisfied with their children's education, public school parents consistently rank last after parents who choose private schools, homeschooling, and charter schools. Importantly, among all parents of school-age children, homeschooling enjoys a 70 percent favorability rating.

The reasons for the move away from public schools certainly vary from family to family, but there have been notable developments in recent years. During the pandemic, many parents discovered that their preferences regarding school closures and health policies were anything but a priority for educators.

Closures also gave parents a chance to experience public schools' competence with remote learning, and many were unimpressed. They have also been unhappy with the poor quality and often politicized lessons taught to their children that infuriatingly blend declining learning outcomes with indoctrination. That doesn't mean parents all want the same things, but the one-size-fits-some nature of public schooling make curriculum battles inevitableand push many towards the exits in favor of alternatives including, especially, homeschooling. The shift appears to be here to stay.

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"What's particularly striking is the resilience of this trend," concludes Watson of Johns Hopkins University's Homeschool Hub. "States that saw declines have bounced back with double-digit growth, and we're seeing record enrollment numbers across the country."

Once an alternative way to educate children, homeschooling is now an increasingly popular and mainstream option.

The post Homeschooling Hits Record Numbers appeared first on Reason.com.
A homicide investigation is underway in Norristown, Montgomery County.

Officers responded to a home on the 800 block of DeKalb Street near Oak Street on Tuesday afternoon.

Nearby, investigators discovered a vehicle that had struck a pole at Jacoby and Green streets. The victim inside was later pronounced dead.

Police have not released the victim's identity or details about the circumstances surrounding the death or the crash.

Authorities told Action News the Montgomery County District Attorney's Office is leading the investigation.
Business leaders need to consider the role public services play in a community instead of focusing solely on taxes and regulations, commentator Chuck Sheketoff writes. (Photo by Getty Images)

Oregons business climate is once again on the minds of business leaders in the state, as evidenced by a recent opinion piece in The Oregonian/OregonLive by Karla S. Chambers, co-founder and co-owner of Stahlbush Island Farms. The complaints about Oregons business climate focus on taxes (they claim they are too high) and regulations (they claim they are over-regulated).

The business community in this country did not always equate perceived high taxes as bad for the business climate. In March 1950, The Oregonian had a top of the front page article titled Heres a Happy U.S. Taxpayer about the nations alleged highest-paid executive being happy that he pays a 92% federal income tax.

More recently and speaking to the issue of the business climate, in 1990 Fortune magazine noted that its choice for the second best city for business earned that spot in large part because it had high taxes and well-funded public services that the high taxes make possible. Painfully high corporate and personal income taxes go for heavy expenditures on education, welfare, transportation, and parks. The system works the business magazine exclaimed in explaining why it liked the twin cities Minneapolis/St. Paul as a place for business to locate.

In Oregon, corporations used to contribute 18% of income taxes. Due to loopholes and tax avoidance, they now pay much less of our income taxes. As noted recently by the Oregon Center for Public Policy, the share of Oregon income taxes paid by corporations has declined by more than 40% since the mid-1970s.

One tax loophole pushed by the business community to allegedly improve Oregons business climate took Intel Corp. from top corporate income tax payer at $50 million a year down to zero, putting them in the miniscule-for-them corporate minimum tax category, a tax they pay for the privilege of conducting business in Oregon. Higher ed, important to a good business climate, loses out.

Chambers, like others before her, points to Dutch Bros move of its headquarters to Arizona and implies that it is because Oregon is not competitive. As The Oregonian reported at the time of the move announcement, Oregons business climate was not the reason; Dutchs new CEO was located in Arizona and the company wanted its headquarters to be close to their market expansion.

Theres no question that the quality of public services impacts the business climate and that Oregon needs to keep improving its public services, as there will always be room for improvement.
Nov. 19 (UPI) -- The House voted Tuesday against censuring Delegate Stacey Plaskett and removing her from the Intelligence Committee following revelations she texted with sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a congressional hearing.

The late night 209-214 vote came hours after the House approved a bill directing the Justice Department to release the files from its investigation into Epstein. Three Republicans joined Democrats voting against the measure. Another three Republicans voted "present."

Leading up to the vote to release the files, the House Oversight Committee began releasing troves of documents from Epstein's estate that included his texts and other communications.

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Those included copies of texts Epstein had with Plaskett as she was about to question Michael Cohen, the former personal lawyer of President Donald Trump, during a 2019 congressional hearing, The New York Times reported.

Republicans seized on the revelation, and Rep. Ralph Norman, R-S.C., introduced the censure resolution accusing Plaskett of having "inappropriately coordinated" with Epstein, receiving suggested lines of questioning and congratulations from him. The resolution also would have directed the House Ethics Committee to investigate her ties to Epstein.

Del. Stacey Placket dodged a GOP-backed censure vote Tuesday after revelations she had texted with Jeffery Epstein during a congressional hearing. File Photo by Jemal Countess/UPI

Plaskett, a Democrat, represents the U.S. Virgin Islands as a delegate. That means that while she may participate in many of the chamber's functions while representing the territory, she cannot vote on the House floor.

She defended herself in a House floor speech, explaining that Epstein was a constituent she had been in contact with to get information, reported Politico.

Del. Stacey Placket dodged a GOP-backed censure vote Tuesday after revelations she had texted with Jeffery Epstein during a congressional hearing. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

"I know how to question individuals. I know how to seek information. I have sought information from confidential informants, from murderers, from other individuals because I want the truth," she said.

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Norman, however, told The Washington Post that it was "beyond comprehension" that Plaskett would work with the disgraced financier on House business.

"The American people expect honesty, the American people expect integrity and judgment from their elected officials," he said in a floor speech, according to the Post. "They expect members of Congress to conduct themselves with one word -- decency -- not to seek advice from a predator who exploited minor children."
WASHINGTON  Not every fight in Congress is partisan.

In the House this week, Republicans have been going after Republicans. Democrats have been going after Democrats. Lawmakers in both parties have been picking different sides each time.

Politics: House Republicans Threaten To Vote Against Trump-Backed Government Funding Bill

These arent policy fights. Lawmakers keep introducing resolutions to punish each other for various things theyve done in the past. Theyve brought up three resolutions in the last two days, and Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is planning to introduce a fourth on Wednesday night.

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Votes on these measures are entirely symbolic. A censure resolution is a formal statement of disapproval, but it doesnt have any material effect, like forcing someone out of office. Similarly, a resolution to reprimand a member of Congress has no real impact, though unlike a censure, it spares the lawmaker the humiliation of standing in the well of the House and having the resolution read aloud to them.

But these spats have eaten up hours of House floor time this week and escalated tensions between and within parties. And, because lawmakers can introduce these resolutions as a privileged matter, it means a single lawmaker can bring one up for a vote on the House floor pretty much anytime.

Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) started the trend Monday night, when she infuriated her party by bringing forward a resolution to reprimand Rep. Chuy Garcia (D-Ill.) for what she called election subversion. She has accused Garcia, who recently announced his retirement plans, of scheming to install his chief of staff as his successor.

Politics: Nancy Mace Pushes Ilhan Omar Censure, Suggests Deportation, Says F**k Her

The vote was awkward as hell: It passed Tuesday, with 10 lawmakers not voting at all and four others voting present. More than two dozen Democrats sided with Gluesenkamp Perez on the vote, along with all Republicans.

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I am profoundly grateful to have had 235 other Members of Congress stand with me, including 22 other Democrats, Gluesenkamp Perez said in a statement after the vote. It shouldnt have caused as much friction as it did to speak honestly and consistently about election subversion.

Members of Congress have spent the week voting to punish each other. USA! Getty Images

Hours later, Rep. Ralph Norman (R-S.C.) introduced a resolution to censure Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) and kick her off the House Intelligence Committee after news reports indicated shed been texting with late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein during a 2019 congressional hearing. Shes denied wrongdoing, saying Epstein was her constituent and their contact was limited to gathering information for a committee hearing.

Plaskett narrowly avoided her censure. Every Democrat voted against the measure, along with three Republicans, Reps. Don Bacon (Neb.), Lance Gooden (Texas) and Dave Joyce (Ohio). Three Republicans tried to stay out of it entirely by voting present: Reps. Andrew Garbarino (N.Y.), Dan Meuser (Pa.) and Jay Obernolte (Calif.).

Politics: Karoline Leavitts Parents Werent Chill About Her 32-Year Age Gap With Her Husband At First

Angry over Republicans targeting Plaskett, Democrats retaliated with their own resolution to censure Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.). Their measure sought to remove him from the House Armed Services Committee over past allegations that he assaulted a woman at a Washington apartment, and after hed been accused of threatening his ex-girlfriend, Florida state committeewoman Lindsey Langston, with revenge porn. Mills has denied wrongdoing.

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As if this wasnt already enough drama in the House, Democrats withdrew their resolution against Mills in a deal they cut with the Republicans, who agreed not to vote for the resolution against Plaskett. This deal angered some conservative Republicans like Rep. Anna Paulina Luna (Fla.), who had been pushing to rebuke both Plaskett and Mills.

The Plaskett censure failed because house leadership exchanged the vote to protect a republican thats having a lot of issues and should NOT seek re-election, Luna fumed on social media.

The swamp protects itself, she wrote in another post.

Rep. Nancy Mace (R-S.C.) is leading an effort to kick her Republican colleague, Rep. Cory Mills of Florida, off of two committees. via Associated Press

Luna will almost certainly be supporting Maces resolution on Wednesday night. Mace will try, again, to censure Mills.

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Earlier Wednesday, Mace wrote to House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.), urging him to remove Mills from both the House Armed Services Committee and the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. She gave numerous reasons why she thinks he doesnt belong on either panel, ranging from personal conduct allegations hes faced to international arms-dealing concerns to questions about his Bronze Star military award.

Politics: Democrat Accuses Own Colleague Of Election Subversion, Forces House Vote

We simply cannot have an alleged arms dealer with foreign business sitting on the Committee on Foreign Affairs nor can we have stolen valor represented on the Committee on Armed Services, Mace says in her letter.

Its not normal for so many of these resolutions to be coming up at once. The last time a member of Congress was censured was in March, and before that, in 2023. The last time someone was formally reprimanded was in 2020.

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Asked what Mace hopes to accomplish by introducing yet another censure resolution this week, her office pointed to her public statement on her plans.

This privileged resolution is about drawing a line: defending the integrity of Congress, standing with survivors who are too often dismissed or silenced, and respecting veterans whose courage is not up for debate, Mace said in her statement. This is bigger than politics, its about right and wrong.

CORRECTION: This story has been amended to correct the state that Rep. Don Bacon represents.

Political Updates

Read the original on HuffPost
The Senate approved legislation on Wednesday that would force the release of investigative files related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, the morning after a near-unanimous vote in the US House.

By unanimous consent, the Senate agreed to pass the measure as soon as it arrived in the chamber from the House on Tuesday, which had overwhelmingly approved the bill earlier that day in a 427-1 tally. Once the legislation is forwarded to the Senate, it will be automatically approved and cleared for Trumps signature. The president, who dropped his opposition after it was clear it would pass, has said he would sign it.

The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epsteins victims have waited long enough, Chuck Schumer, the top Senate Democrat, said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before winning unanimous consent. Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.

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The Senate had not yet received the bill from the House when it adjourned on Tuesday night.

Related: US perpetrators must face same consequences as Epsteins UK associates, congressman says

The scandal over the Epstein files has dogged the president since his return to the White House, splintering his conservative base and spurring accusations of an attempted cover up from across the political spectrum.

Though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the governments handling of the Epstein case as a Democrat hoax, he eventually relented and signaled his support for the House bill over the weekend, allowing Republican lawmakers to vote for the measure many of their constituents demanded they support.

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On Tuesday morning, the Republican speaker, Mike Johnson, announced he would vote for it, making its passage certain.

Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole no vote came from Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who said he worried the measure would make public identifying details of witnesses, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.

Several of the presidents allies who voted for the bill did so only after criticizing it in floor speeches, arguing Democrats were being insincere but that the House could spend no more time on the matter.

As President Trump has stated, we have nothing to hide, nothing to hide here, said Republican congressman Troy Nehls. Im voting to release the files so that we can move on from the [smear] campaign the Democrats have manufactured. God bless Donald J Trump.

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The Republican judiciary committee chair, Jim Jordan, argued that Democrats could have pushed for the files release during Joe Bidens presidency. Why now, after four years of doing nothing? Because going after President Trump is an obsession with these guys.

Even as he announced his support, Johnson criticized the measure for not doing enough to protect victims of Epstein, a financier who died in 2019 by what investigators determined was suicide while he was awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges.

Everybody here, all the Republicans, want to go on record to show were for maximum transparency, but they also want to note that were demanding that this stuff get corrected before it is ever moves through the process and is complete, Johnson said.

Any changes to the bill made by the Senate would require it to be approved again by the House, probably delaying its enactment.

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Chuck Grassley, the Republican chair of the Senate judiciary committee, wrote on X that he had been calling for full transparency in the Epstein case since 2019 and that the chamber should vote on the bill ASAP.

The Epstein case returned dramatically to the public eye in July, when the justice department and FBI released a memo saying they had nothing further to disclose about the investigation. That flew in the face of statements made by Trump and his top officials that indicated they would release more information about Epsteins offenses and ties to global elites once they took office.

Shortly after, four dissident Republicans in the House and all Democrats banded together to force a vote on a bill to release the investigative files, over Johnsons objections.

The leaders of that effort cheered the imminent vote, with the Democratic congressman Ro Khanna calling Tuesday the first day of real reckoning for the Epstein class.

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Because survivors spoke up, because of their courage, the truth is finally going to come out, and when it comes out, this country is really going to have a moral reckoning. How did we allow this to happen? Khanna said at a press conference, adding that the case was one of the most horrific and disgusting corruption scandals in our countrys history.

Trumps friendship with Epstein has had staying power in American politics as the late disgraced financier had links to many other rich and powerful figures in the US and overseas. The presidents dramatic shift came after it became increasingly apparent that the bill would pass the GOP-controlled House, most likely with significant support from Republican lawmakers. Trump in recent days changed his approach from outright opposition to declarations of indifference.

I DONT CARE! the president wrote in a social media post on Sunday. All I do care about is that Republicans get BACK ON POINT.

Speaking in the Oval Office on Monday, Trump said he did not want the Epstein scandal to deflect from the White Houses successes, and claimed it was a hoax and a Democrat problem.

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Well give them everything, he told reporters. Let the Senate look at it, let anybody look at it, but dont talk about it too much, because honestly, I dont want to take it away from us.

Thomas Massie, an iconoclastic Republican congressman who frequently defies Trump and joined with Khanna to pursue the files release, noted the presidents reversal on the Epstein issue.

We fought the president, the attorney general, the FBI director, the speaker of the House and the vice-president to get this win, he said. But theyre on our side today, though, so lets give them some credit as well.

In July, Khanna and Massie turned to a procedural tactic known as a discharge petition to circumvent House leadership and compel a vote on their bill, the Epstein Files Transparency Act, if a majority of the 435-member House signs on.

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Johnson went to extraordinary lengths to avoid a vote on the measure, which splintered his conference. Democrats accused the speaker of delaying the swearing-in of the Arizona Democrat Adelita Grijalva to prevent her from becoming the decisive 218th signatory. She signed her name to the petition moments after officially taking office last week.

As president, Trump has the authority to order the justice department to release the documents in its possession, as he has previously done with the government records related to the assassinations of Martin Luther King Jr and John F Kennedy.

Emails made public last week by a House committee that has opened a separate inquiry into the scandal showed Epstein believed Trump knew about the girls, though it was not clear what that phrase meant. The White House said the released emails contained no proof of wrongdoing by Trump.

Last week, the president instructed the justice department to investigate prominent Democrats ties to Epstein. The US attorney general, Pam Bondi, who earlier this year said a review of the files revealed no further investigative leads, replied to Trump that she would get on it right away and has appointed a prosecutor to lead the effort.

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Related: Please release the records: Epstein survivors urge Congress over DoJ files

The Epstein scandal is a core issue for a swathe of Trumps rightwing base, some of whom believe in conspiracy theories that surround Epstein and his coterie of powerful friends and associates. Unlike many other issues, the Epstein files have prompted rebellions from Trumps supporters in politics and the media, who have called on the president to follow through on his campaign promise to release them.

Meanwhile, several Epstein survivors have ramped up pressure on Congress and Trump to advance the measure.

Its time that we put the political agendas and party affiliations to the side. This is a human issue. This is about children, survivor Haley Robson said at the press conference. There is no place in society for exploitation, sexual crimes or exploitation of women.

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She then addressed her comments to Trump, saying: While I do understand that your position has changed on the Epstein files, and Im grateful that you have pledged to sign this bill, I cant help to be skeptical of what the agenda is.

On Monday night, activists projected an image of Trump and Epstein on to the justice department building, accompanied by the message: Release the files now.
NEED TO KNOW

Officials responded to a report of a hunting accident in Northeast Texas that killed a 45-year-old man, Texas Game Wardens said

The agency identified the victim as Jose Ramirez of Grapevine and noted that he died after he accidentally shot himself

His family remembered him in a GoFundMe fundraiser as a "pillar" of their home

A 45-year-old hunter died after he accidentally shot himself while removing a gun from a car, authorities said.

In a post on X, Texas Game Wardens said authorities in northeast Texas responded shortly after midnight on Saturday, Nov. 15, concerning a hunting accident that claimed the life of a 45-year-old hunter from Grapevine.

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In a statement shared with PEOPLE on Wednesday, Nov. 19, Texas Game Wardens identified the victim as Jose Ramirez, 45. Officials said Ramirez was removing a firearm from a vehicle when it accidentally discharged, striking him.

Life saving measures were performed, but unfortunately Mr. Ramirez died of his injuries, the agency said.

Texas Game Wardens added in their X post that the department always wishes "a tragedy like this could have been avoided."

We encourage every hunter to take safety seriously," the department wrote. "Always handle all firearms as if they are loaded, keep muzzles pointed in a safe direction and take time to unload your firearm before placing or removing it from a vehicle."

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Texas Game Wardens offered their condolences to the victims family and friends in their post.

Ramirezs son, Jose, has since launched a GoFundMe fundraiser to support his family and noted that they are "heartbroken" by his passing.

My dad meant the world to me, Jose wrote in the fundraiser's description. He taught me the most important lessons in life  to never give up, to work hard for what you want, and to always do what makes you happy, no matter how small it may seem. He believed that true success comes from loving what you do and living with a happy heart.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Jose shared that his dad was a "pillar" of their home and "at the center of his joy was his granddaughter  my niece  who is about to turn one."

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"She was his greatest blessing and the light of his life," he added.

PEOPLE contacted the GoFundMe organizer, Jose Ramirez, for additional information on Wednesday, Nov. 19.



Read the original article on People
Hyundai chief executive Jose Munoz said on Wednesday that the White House phoned him personally to apologise for a massive immigration raid at a factory in the US state of Georgia.

Speaking at a conference of business leaders in Singapore, Mr Munoz said the governor of Georgia had also called him and said "I don't know what happened, this is not state jurisdiction."

In September, more than 300 South Korean workers were detained in a raid at a battery plant operated by Hyundai and electronics giant LG, raising tensions between Washington and Seoul.

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In reply to a request for comment from the BBC, the White House did not directly address whether or not it had called Mr Munoz to apologise.

"The United States is proud to be a home for major investments and looks forward to continuing to build on these historic investments and partnerships that President Trump has secured," White House spokeswoman Abigail Jackson said in an emailed statement.

"Any foreign workers brought in for specific projects must enter the United States legally and with proper work authorisations," she added.

The BBC has also contacted the governor of Georgia for comment.

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During the raid, workers were forced to sit on the floor of the factory as officers shackled their legs in scenes that sparked outrage in South Korea.

The workers were held in detention for more than a week before being flown home after the South Korean government held urgent talks with the US.

The company warned in September that the raid would delay the plant's opening due to labour shortages.

Mr Munoz said during a panel discussion at the Bloomberg New Economy Forum that he believed that someone had "made a phone call and made it look like there were illegal immigrants" at the plant.

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"That's absolutely not the case," said Mr Munoz.

The raid was "a bad surprise" but the company remained committed to manufacturing in the US, he added.

US President Donald Trump has previously said that he was "very much opposed" to the raid.

Trump said at the time that the US had an "understanding" with the world on the need to bring in experts to set up specialised facilities and train local workers.

Despite the raid increasing tensions between the US and South Korea, the two countries announced in October that they had reached a broad trade deal.

Under the agreement, the two sides reduced reciprocal tariffs from 25% to 15%, while South Korea said it would invest $350bn (266.5bn) in the US.
A new lawsuit alleges that Hyundai Motor Group has benefited from labor exploitation within its U.S. supply chain, accusing Hyundai and Kia of relying on unlawful labor practices while selling vehicles to California public agencies. Filed by Jobs to Move America, the complaint seeks to halt Hyundai and Kia vehicle sales in California connected to the alleged labor abuses until the issues are fixed.

According to the lawsuit, unlawful practicesincluding child labor, forced labor, prison labor, and unsafe working conditionsare taking place at supplier facilities in Alabama and Georgia. The filing argues that these practices violate Californias Unfair Competition Law and contradict the companies' public image as a socially responsible manufacturer, even as the defendants benefit from clean-transportation incentives in California, a state touted as a leader in EV adoption and infrastructure.

Hyundais U.S. electric lineup includes the Ioniq 5, Ioniq 6, and the three-row Ioniq 9, which competes directly with models such as the Tesla Model X and Rivian R1S. Meanwhile, Kia offers the Niro, EV6, and EV9.

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Beyond the alleged labor violations, the lawsuit argues these practices give the South Korean automotive company an unfair competitive advantage in California. By driving down labor costs through allegedly exploitative conditions, suppliers can produce parts more cheaply, allowing the brands to earn higher profit margins.

Hyundai has rejected the accusations, calling them baseless, stating (via WTOC):

We prioritize the safety and well-being of our workforce above all else and remain fully compliant with all federal and state regulations. We require our suppliers and business partners to adhere to Hyundais strict safety, employment, and legal standards, and take decisive action when violations occur.

The company also noted that it employs 4,500 people at its Alabama plant and has committed to hiring 8,500 workers at its Georgia facility by 2031.

The lawsuit comes in the wake of an immigration raid at Hyundais Georgia plant last September, which resulted in 475 detentions, many of them South Korean nationals on short-term visas, according to U.S. officials.
The Trump administration has not hired the best people to work for Immigration and Customs Enforcement. One of them was arrested for sex trafficking as part of a three-day sting earlier this month.

The man is an auditor for ICE, and was one of 16 men arrested who were allegedly attempting to solicit a 17-year-old girl in Bloomington, Minnesota. The ICE employee, 41-year-old Alexander Steven Back, could face federal charges, said Bloomington Police Chief Booker Hodges at a news conference on Tuesday.

Back, a resident of Robbinsdale, Minnesota, responded to a fake online ad offering prostitution services, and wasnt dissuaded when an undercover officer pretending to be 17 years old wrote, U ok if Im a lil younger than my ad says  just wanna be honest.

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Sure, Back responded, according to charging documents.

K cause I am 17 and one guy got hella mad at me, the undercover officer, going by the name Bella, replied.

Bella told Back that she was 17 a second time, and then gave him a Bloomington address, where police arrested him and took his phone.

When he was arrested, he said, Im ICE, boys, Hodges said. Well, unfortunately for him, we locked him up.

Under the Trump administration, ICEs hiring has become so haphazard that many people arent properly vetted, with some being turned away due to disqualifying criminal backgrounds or failed drug tests. Many end up being terminated because they dont meet academic or physical standards. Backs case seems to show that the agency is attracting the wrong kinds of people.
(The Center Square)  U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers in Houston arrested nearly 3,600 illegal foreign nationals during the longest federal government shutdown in U.S. history.

From Oct. 1 through Nov. 12, they arrested 3,593 foreign nationals with extensive criminal histories.

Among them were 67 sex offenders, 51 child predators, 13 murderers, 10 wanted fugitives and 23 gang members, including an MS-13 gang member who after he was released into the U.S. by the Biden administration allegedly committed a triple homicide in Dallas.

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Their combined criminal convictions include DWIs (366), aggravated assault (261), burglary or theft (103), weapons offenses (46), aggravated kidnapping, drug and human trafficking and smuggling, making terroristic threats, evading and resisting arrest, prostitution, hit-and-run, bribery, auto theft, forgery, falsifying documents, trespassing, arson, violent sexual assaults, multiple aggravated child sex crimes, among others.

Many were previously deported multiple times and illegally reentered the U.S. multiple times, ICE said.

Our entire team understands how critical ICEs mission is to public safety and national security, and despite many of them going without pay, they continued to show up every day and give everything they had to protect this community from dangerous criminal illegal alien gang members, child predators, murderers and rapists, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operation Houston Field Office Director Bret Bradford said. As a result of those efforts, 51 dangerous child predators are no longer free to prey on our children, 10 fugitives have been apprehended and will now face justice for their alleged offenses, and thousands of other violent criminal aliens have been removed from local communities throughout Southeast Texas and will be removed from the United States.

ICE highlighted examples of the worst offenders, including a Honduran national and MS-13 gang member who was released into the U.S. by the Biden administration. Once in the U.S., he allegedly committed a triple homicide in Dallas County last April.

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Another MS-13 gang member was arrested after illegally entering the U.S. eight times. His convictions include alien smuggling and illegal entry.

ICE highlighted examples of Biden administration policies that allowed criminals to remain in the U.S. instead of being deported.

In one case, ICE officers encountered a Mexican national and twice deported convicted rapist in September 2023, but were unable to take him into custody or remove him from the country because of a directive issued by former Acting ICE director Tae Johnson, ICE said. Johnsons directive ordered ICE officers not to enforce federal immigration law prompting Texas sheriffs and the Federal Police Foundation to sue, The Center Square reported.

The policy prevented his deportation and he went on to rape and assault a woman just one month later, ICE said. He was convicted of sexual assault and aggravated assault last August. His criminal history includes convictions for drug possession, obstructing law enforcement, DWI and making false statements to law enforcement.

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In another case, a Mexican national and convicted child predator who was previously deported four times was arrested by Edinburg Police officers in south Texas, but no action was taken by ICE because of the policy, ICE said. As a result, he remained in the U.S. illegally and would go on to prey on an innocent child leading to his conviction for sexual indecency with a child in January, ICE said. ICE has since deported him.

In another case, after a Mexican national illegally entered the U.S., the Biden administration released him and he went on to prey on an innocent child and was convicted of sexual indecency with a child in May 2022, ICE said. ICE has since deported him.

In another case, a Mexican national and child predator who illegally entered the U.S. seven times wasnt deported. His convictions include multiple child sex crimes, aggravated assault with a weapon, and illegal entry. He has since been deported.

Examples of fugitives ICE arrested include a previously deported Mexican national wanted for homicide in Harris County; a Venezuelan who illegally entered the U.S. and was granted parole by the Biden administration and went on to illegally practice dentistry in Harris County; Honduran men wanted for homicide by Honduran officials, among others.

ICE is also encouraging members of the public to report crime and suspicious activity by calling 866-347-2423 or completing an online tip form.
Federal agents patrol the halls of immigration court in New York City in October. While arrests at federal immigration courts have received widespread attention, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement have also arrested individuals at state courthouses, prompting some Democratic states to impose restrictions. (Photo by Michael M. Santiago/Getty Images)

A day after President Donald Trump took office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement issued a new directive to its agents: Arrests at courthouses, restricted under the Biden administration, were again permissible.

In Connecticut, a group of observers who keep watch on ICE activity in and around Stamford Superior Court have since witnessed a series of arrests. In one high-profile case in August, federal agents pursued two men into a bathroom.

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Is it an activity you want to be interfering with, people fulfilling their duty when theyre called to court and going to court? For me, its insanity, said David Michel, a Democratic former state representative in Connecticut who helps observe courthouse activity.

Fueled by the Stamford uproar, Connecticut lawmakers last week approved restrictions on civil arrests and mask-wearing by federal law enforcement at state courthouses. And on Monday, a federal judge tossed a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Department of Justice that had sought to block similar restrictions in New York.

They are the latest examples of a growing number of Democratic states, and some judges, pushing back against ICE arrests in and around state courthouses. State lawmakers and other officials worry the raids risk keeping people from testifying in criminal trials, fighting evictions or seeking restraining orders against domestic abusers.

Is it an activity you want to be interfering with, people fulfilling their duty when theyre called to court and going to court? For me, its insanity.

 David Michel, a Democratic former Connecticut state representative

The courthouse arrests mark an intensifying clash between the Trump administration and Democratic states that pits federal authority against state sovereignty. Sitting at the core of the fight are questions about how much power states have to control what happens in their own courts and the physical grounds they sit on.

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In Illinois, lawmakers approved a ban on civil immigration arrests at courthouses in October. In Rhode Island, lawmakers plan to again push for a ban after an earlier measure didnt advance in March. Connecticut lawmakers were codifying limits imposed by the state Supreme Court chief justice in September. Democratic Gov. Ned Lamont is expected to sign the bill.

States that are clamping down on ICE continue to allow the agency to make criminal arrests, as opposed to noncriminal civil arrests. Many people arrested and subsequently deported are taken on noncriminal, administrative warrants. As of Sept. 21, 71.5% of ICE detainees had no criminal convictions, according to the Transactional Records Access Clearinghouse, a data research organization.

Some states, such as New York, already have limits on immigration enforcement in courthouses that date back to the first Trump administration, when ICE agents also engaged in courthouse arrests. New Yorks Protect Our Courts Act, in place since 2020, prohibits civil arrests of people at state and local courthouses without a judicial warrant. The law also applies to people traveling to and from court, extending protections beyond courthouse grounds.

One of the cornerstones of our democracy is open access to the courts. When that access is denied or chilled, all of us are made less safe and less free, said Oren Sellstrom, litigation director at Lawyers for Civil Rights, a Boston-based group that works to provide legal support to immigrants, people of color and low-income individuals.

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But in addition to challenging the New York law, the Justice Department is prosecuting a Wisconsin state judge, alleging she illegally helped a migrant avoid ICE agents.

We arent some medieval kingdom; there are no legal sanctuaries where you can hide and avoid the consequences for breaking the law.

 U.S. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin

We arent some medieval kingdom; there are no legal sanctuaries where you can hide and avoid the consequences for breaking the law, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin said in a statement to Stateline. Nothing in the constitution prohibits arresting a lawbreaker where you find them.

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Some Republican lawmakers oppose efforts to limit ICE arrests in and near courthouses, arguing state officials should stay out of the way of federal law enforcement. The Ohio Senate in June passed a bill that would prohibit public officials from interfering in immigration arrests or prohibiting cooperation with ICE; the move came after judges in Franklin County, which includes Columbus, imposed restrictions on civil arrests in courthouses.

The United States is a nation of immigrants, but we are also a nation of law and order. To have a civilized society, laws must be respected, this includes immigration laws, Ohio Republican state Sen. Kristina Roegner, the bills sponsor, said in a news release at the time.

Roegner didnt respond to Statelines interview request. The legislation remains in a House committee.

Knowing where a target will be

Courthouses offer an attractive location for ICE to make immigration arrests, according to both ICE and advocates for migrants.

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Court records and hearing schedules often indicate who is expected in the building on any given day. Administrative warrants dont allow ICE to enter private homes without permission, but the same protections dont apply in public areas, such as courthouses. And many people have a strong incentive to show up for court, knowing that warrants can potentially be issued for their arrest if they dont.

So in some respects, its easy pickings, said Steven Brown, executive director of the ACLU of Rhode Island.

In June, ICE arrested Pablo Grave de la Cruz at Rhode Island Traffic Tribunal in Cranston. A 36-year-old Rhode Island resident, he had come from Guatemala illegally as a teenager.

They pulled up on him like he was a murderer or a rapist, friend Brittany Donohue told the Rhode Island Current, which chronicled de la Cruzs case. He was leaving traffic court.

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An immigration judge has since granted de la Cruz permission to self-deport.

McLaughlin, the Homeland Security assistant secretary, said in her statement that allowing law enforcement to make arrests of criminal illegal aliens in courthouses is common sense  conserving law enforcement resources because officers know where a target will be. The department said the practice is safer for officers and the community, noting that individuals have gone through courthouse security.

Still, ICEs directive on courthouse arrests sets some limits on the agencys activity.

Agents should, to the extent practicable conduct civil immigration arrests in non-public areas of the courthouse and avoid public entrances. Actions should be taken discreetly to minimize disruption to court proceedings, and agents should generally avoid areas wholly dedicated to non-criminal proceedings, such as family court, the directive says.

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Crucially, the directive says ICE can conduct civil immigration arrests where such action is not precluded by laws imposed by the jurisdiction. In other words, the agencys guidance directs agents to respect state and local bans on noncriminal arrests.

Trump administration court actions

But the Trump administration has also gone to court to try to overcome state-level restrictions.

The Justice Department sued in June over New Yorks Protect Our Courts Act, arguing that it purposefully shields dangerous aliens from lawful detention. The department says the law violates the U.S. Constitutions supremacy clause, under which federal law supersedes state law.

New York Democratic Attorney General Letitia James argued the state law doesnt conflict with federal law and sought the lawsuits dismissal.

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U.S. District Court Judge Mae DAgostino, an appointee of President Barack Obama, on Monday granted James motion. The judge wrote that the entire purpose of the lawsuit was to allow the federal government to commandeer New Yorks resources  such as court schedules and court security screening measures  to aid immigration enforcement, even though states cannot generally be required to help the federal government enforce federal law.

Compelling New York to allow federal immigration authorities to reap the benefits of the work of state employees is no different than permitting the federal government to commandeer state officials directly in furtherance of federal objectives, the judge wrote.

The Justice Department didnt immediately respond to a request for comment.

The department is also prosecuting Wisconsin Judge Hannah Dugan, who prosecutors allege helped a person living in the country illegally avoid ICE agents in April inside a Milwaukee courthouse by letting him exit a courtroom through a side door. (Agents apprehended the individual near the courthouse.) A federal grand jury indicted Dugan on a count of concealing an individual and a count of obstructing a proceeding.

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In court documents, Dugans lawyers have called the prosecution virtually unprecedented and entirely unconstitutional.

Dugan has pleaded not guilty, and a trial is set for December.

Lawmakers seek order in courthouses

Rhode Island Democratic state Sen. Meghan Kallman is championing legislation that would generally ban civil arrests at courthouses. The measure received a hearing, but a legislative committee recommended further study.

Kallman hopes the bill will go further next year. The sense of urgency has intensified, she said, and more people now understand the consequences of what is happening.

In order to create a system of law that is functioning and that encourages trust, we have to make those [courthouse] spaces safe, she said.

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Back in Connecticut, Democratic state Rep. Steven Stafstrom said his day job as a commercial litigator brings him into courthouses across the state weekly. Based on his conversations with court staff, other lawyers and senior administration within the judicial branch, he said theres a genuine fear, not just for safety, but for disruptions of orderly court processes in our courthouses.

Some Connecticut Republicans have questioned whether a law that only pertains to civil arrests would prove effective. State Rep. Craig Fishbein, the ranking Republican on the House Judiciary Committee, noted during floor debate that entering the United States without permission is a criminal offense  a misdemeanor for first-time offenders and a felony for repeat offenders. Because of that, he suggested the measure wouldnt stop many courthouse arrests.

The advocates think theyre getting no arrests in courthouses, but theyve been sold a bill of goods, he said.

Stafstrom, who chairs the Judiciary Committee, said in response that he believed the legislation protects many people who are in the country illegally because that crime is often not prosecuted.

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All were asking is for ICE to recognize the need for order in our courthouses, Stafstrom said.

Stateline reporter Jonathan Shorman can be reached at jshorman@stateline.org.

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The attack reportedly killed three; however, it is not clear yet if the target of the attack was killed.

The IDF targeted a senior Hamas terrorist in a strike on a building in the Zeitoun neighborhood in Gaza City on Wednesday, multiple security sources told The Jerusalem Post.

The attack reportedly killed three; however, it is not clear yet if the target of the attack was killed.

The echoes of the attack were heard in the western Negev.

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The military said that prior to the strikes, several terrorists opened fire at the area where IDF soldiers are operating in Khan Yunis. The IDF then struck Hamas terror targets across the Strip in response.

The IDF had killed several terrorists earlier who were identified crossing into IDF-controlled northern Gaza, who, according to the military, posed a threat to troops.

Palestinians walk past the rubble of destroyed buildings, amid a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, in Gaza City, November 19, 2025. (credit: REUTERS/Dawoud Abu Alkas TPX IMAGES OF THE DAY)

The terrorists were immediately killed after identification, according to the IDF.

In recent weeks, the IDF has reported multiple cases of terrorists approaching positions beyond the Yellow Line and being targeted.

The army has repeatedly emphasized that the ceasefire does not prevent action against imminent threats to soldiers or Israeli civilians.

Two terrorists were killed after entering an IDF-controlled area on Monday

TheIDF killed several terrorists while crossing this boundary in two separate events on Monday, the military said in a statement.

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One of the terrorists was seen planting suspicious objects in the ground adjacent to troops, and was subsequently struck. The remaining terrorists fled from the scene to the area west of the Yellow Line, the statement read.

Another terrorist attempted to approach IDF troops stationed near the Yellow Line and was killed as he posed an immediate threat, the military added.

Over 20 Gazans killed in IDF strike

At least 25 Palestinians were killed in four Israeli airstrikes on Wednesday in a part of Gaza under Hamas control since the ceasefire took effect in October, the Hamas Health said.

The IDF said its forces struck Hamas targets across Gaza after members of the terror group fired on its troops in violation of the nearly six-week-old ceasefire. No Israeli forces were injured.

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A US official, who spoke anonymously, said Hamas was aiming to break the ceasefire and not fulfill its commitment to demilitarize.

"These desperate tactics will fail," the official said.

Medics declared 10 people were killed in the Gaza City suburb of Zeitoun, two in the Shejaia suburb to the east, and the rest in two separate attacks in Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip.

Tobias Holcman contributed to this report.
Milei LIBRA scam. Photo by BeInCrypto

The LIBRA price surged more than 30% on Wednesday, even as Argentinas Congress released a devastating 200-page report accusing the tokens organizers and political allies of orchestrating a coordinated rug pull.

The explosive findings have sent shockwaves through the countrys crypto and political spaces, turning LIBRA into the most controversial token of the week.

LIBRA Pumps Over 30% in the Middle of a Scandal

As of this writing, LIBRA was trading at $0.00232, representing an increase of almost 31% in the last 24 hours. The abrupt price spike comes at a tense moment, only hours after the climax of Argentinas LIBRA investigation.

LIBRA Price Performance. Source: CoinGecko

Hours earlier, the Investigative Commission formally submitted its final report to the Chamber of Deputies, concluding that LIBRA was not an isolated incident, according to Commission president Maxi Ferraro.

The report draws on months of testimony, blockchain forensics, expert analysis, and more than 2,000 pages of documentation.

In his public statement, Maxi Ferraro, President of the LIBRA Investigative Commission, said the evidence shows a consistent pattern of behaviors and responsibilities across multiple previous token schemes, including the 2024 $KIP operation.

Maxi Ferraro, President of the LIBRA Investigative Commission

The Commission asserts that LIBRA followed the same formula, citing:

Misleading marketing,

Rapid hype amplification,

Insider positioning, and

An orchestrated exit.

LIBRA Was a Textbook Rug Pull, Investigators Say

According to the report, the February 14 launch of LIBRA was engineered as a classic rug pull. Investigators argue the Presidents tweet, described in the report as the determining factor behind LIBRAs sudden price spike, created the perfect liquidity surge for insiders to cash out.

The contract address was first revealed in the Presidents own post on X (Twitter), enabling immediate public exposure and a surge of retail traders.

That rush proved devastating as the Commission found that:

87 wallets traded on insider information in the 22 seconds before Mileis post went live.

Of those, 36 wallets earned more than $1 million each,

More than 114,000 retail investors were wiped out.

These findings further challenge Mileis televised denial of widespread losses after initial reports cited over 1,300 Argentines affected by LIBRAs crash.
Wake County Public Schools saw absentee rates jump Nov. 18, 2025 as Border Patrol agents began enforcement raids in the Triangle. (Photo: Getty Images/Antonio Hugo)

The Wake County Public School System released data Wednesday showing how student enrollment has been affected by the federal immigration crackdown that began in the Triangle Tuesday.

While no immigration enforcement activities were reported at any of its campuses, the system recorded 19,471 absences on Nov. 18. That means nearly 11% of students in the district opted not to attend school on Tuesday, an increase of 7,841 absences above baseline data the school district examined. That represents a 67% jump in absences over an average day.

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More than 110 schools in the district reported an absence rate above 10% on Tuesday, according to Lisa Luten, the chief communications officer for Wake County Schools.

Raleighs Baileywick Elementary School saw one of the steepest declines in attendance, dropping from nearly 91% on Monday to 68% on Tuesday with 161 children absent.

School administrators, teachers, and support teams are now actively reaching out to families across the district to ensure students stay connected to their classrooms, Luten said.

Anxious NC students ask how to respond

The news forced parent Amanda Paoloni to have a difficult conversation with her 14-year-old daughter this week. The 8th grader had seen stories about the U.S. Border Patrol crisscrossing North Carolina. She asked what she should do if her best friend were approached or taken by unidentifiable armed and masked men.

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Paoloni said she knew her daughters best friend is of Mexican descent, but never once thought about her immigration status or that of her parents.

What I do know is, she is kind. Quick with a smile, encourages my daughter to read, and laughs at her jokes, Paoloni said at the Wake County School Board meeting Tuesday evening.

Wake County parent Amanda Paoloni. (Photo: WCPSS video stream)

Paoloni said she did her best to explain in simple terms that a teenager would grasp how to best manage her fear and adrenaline while being the most help in the moment.

But her daughter had so many other questions.

How do we know these people are ICE?

Why arent they identifying themselves?

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What happens if they arent ICE?

How is this legal?

When the teenager said there was no way she would let an unidentified masked man take her best friend without a fight, Paoloni was scared.

I looked at her and I said, If you enter a physical altercation, you will lose,' she told the school board.

Paoloni said this was not a conversation about learning, but rather a conversation about survival.

Wake Co. School Board member Christina Gordon (Photo: WCPSS video stream)

Children cannot learn when they are in survival mode. Fear destroys the conditions required for student achievement: focus, memory, emotional regulation and a sense of safety, said Paoloni.

Board member Christina Gordon, who has three children in Wake Countys public schools, acknowledged having a similar conversation with her own boys about the fear created by the threat of ICE enforcement.

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When fear enters our classrooms, it disrupts everything for everyone, said Gordon, who has taught in both Wake and Durham County public schools. I want to be clear, our commitment is to students, not to systems that destabilize their wellbeing.

School board member Lynn Edmonds called the presence of masked federal agents a form of domestic terrorism.

The presence of ICE, whether its here in Wake County or elsewhere, causes real, unnecessary and long-term trauma, said Edmonds.

No one during Tuesdays open comment period spoke publicly in support of the stepped up enforcement effort.

Immigration raids and learning loss

Long before the border patrol enforcement, Wake Countys school leaders made improving consistent attendance a top goal. Missing just two days a month can add up to more than two weeks of lost learning each year, according to information on the school districts website.

Irene Godinez is the executive director of Poder NC Action, a nonprofit group advocating for immigrant rights, and the mother of a 9-year-old in the Wake school system. (Photo: WCPSS video)

A recent study by Stanford University finds immigration raids in communities with large immigrant populations have resulted in increased student absenteeism. The study found that even when the raids lasted just a few days, school absenteeism remained elevated for several weeks.

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Irene Godinez, executive director of Poder NC Action, a nonprofit group advocating for immigrant rights, is the mother of a 9-year-old student in the Wake school system. She said the toxic stress caused by these unpredictable, unannounced raids goes well beyond learning loss.

One in four children in the U.S. live in mixed-status families. Even U.S. citizens and children carry the constant fear that a parent may be taken from them, she cautioned.

Godinez pointed to the case of a Durham 13-year-old who died by suicide in late February after being bullied about her familys immigration status.

Godinez also urged school board members to adopt a non-punitive attendance policy during this immigration enforcement surge.

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Realistically, families experiencing terror cannot be burdened with proactively advocating for their child to be excused from class, not when they are protecting themselves from being hunted, Godinez said.

Superintendent Robert P. Taylor has said the school district honors all laws protecting the privacy of Wake children and will remain focused on the well-being and education of every student, regardless of their background.

The Wake County Public School System has issued the following resources for parents and caregivers:
As cases of potentially deadly botulism in babies who drank ByHeart infant formula continue to grow, state officials say they are still finding the recalled product on some store shelves.

Meanwhile the company reported late Wednesday that laboratory tests confirmed that some samples of formula were contaminated with the type of bacteria that has sickened more than 30 babies in the outbreak.

Tests by an independent food safety laboratory found Clostridium botulinum, a bacterium that produces toxins that can lead to potentially life threatening illness in babies younger than 1, the company said on its website. ByHeart officials said they notified the U.S. Food and Drug Administration of the findings but did not specify how many samples were tested or how many were positive.

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We are working to investigate the facts, conduct ongoing testing to identify the source, and ensure this does not happen to families again, ByHeart said on its website.

The FDA did not immediately respond to questions about the findings.

The lab results come as investigators in at least three states found ByHeart formula still for sale even after the New York-based company recalled all products nationwide, officials told The Associated Press.

At least 31 babies in 15 states who drank ByHeart formula have been hospitalized and treated for infantile botulism since August, federal health officials said Wednesday. They range in age from about 2 weeks to about 6 months, with the most recent case reported on Nov. 13.

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No deaths have been reported.

In Oregon, nine of more than 150 stores checked still had the formula on shelves this week, a state agriculture official said. In Minnesota, investigators conducted 119 checks between Nov. 13 and Nov. 17 and removed recalled products from sale at four sites, an agriculture department official said. An Arizona health official also said they found the product available.

Businesses and consumers should remain alert, Minnesota officials said in a statement. No affected product should be sold or consumed, they wrote.

Investigators with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted inspections at ByHeart manufacturing plants in Allerton, Iowa, and Portland, Oregon. No results from the inspections have been reported.

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California officials previously confirmed the germ that can lead to illness in an open can of ByHeart formula fed to a baby who fell ill.

Infant botulism, which can cause paralysis and death, is caused by a type of bacteria that forms spores that germinate in a baby's gut and produce a toxin.

Symptoms can take up to 30 days to develop and include constipation, poor feeding, a weak cry, drooping eyelids or a flat facial expression. Babies can develop weakness in their limbs and head and may feel floppy. They can have trouble swallowing or breathing.

ByHeart had been manufacturing about 200,000 cans of formula per month. It was sold online or at retail stores such as Target and Walmart. A Walmart spokesperson said the company swiftly issued a restriction that prevented sale of the formula, removed the product from stores and notified consumers who had bought it. Customers can visit any store for a refund of the formula, which sold for about $42 per can.

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Federal and state health officials are concerned that some parents and caregivers may still have ByHeart products in their homes. They are advising consumers to stop using the product  including formula in cans and any single-serve sticks. They also suggest marking it DO NOT USE and keeping it for at least a month in case a baby develops symptoms. In that case, the formula would need to be tested.

The California health department operates the Infant Botulism Treatment and Prevention Program, which tracks cases and distributes treatment for the disease. Officials there have launched a public hotline at 833-398-2022, which is staffed with health officials from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m. Pacific Standard Time.

The new hotline was created after calls from hundreds of parents and caregivers flooded a different, longstanding hotline for doctors to discuss suspected infant botulism cases, officials said.

___

The Associated Press Health and Science Department receives support from the Howard Hughes Medical Institutes Department of Science Education and the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
It is described as an extremist network, using various platforms to prey on vulnerable children here, and around the world.

For the past six months, the I-Team, along with ABC News, have been investigating the disturbing rise of 764. Federal law enforcement is now referring to it as modern-day terrorism.

"This network originally came together based on the activity of this young man who was a teenager at the time... and he started this... child sexual predator network on the Discord gaming channel back in 2021," Javed Ali, associate professor at the University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy, told the I-Team.

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The 764 network operates not only in the United States, but all over the world, using threats, blackmail, and perverse manipulation to groom children for violence and pain. Members force young people to perform depraved acts against themselves and others.

The network is expanding at an alarming rate, according to the FBI, which is now comparing 764 actions to those of terrorist organizations.

"Lots of commonalities with other types of terrorist activity," said Javed Ali, an associate professor at the University of Michigan Ford School of Public Policy.

The 764 network operates not only in the United States but all over the world using threats, blackmail, and perverse manipulation to groom children for violence and pain.

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Ali worked at the FBI and the National Security Council during the Trump administration.

"All this activity that is just so reprehensible. What's to say that they wouldn't go to another level and try to commit an act of terrorism, even though it may not be part of the origin, origins, or the initial ideals of what the 764 network tries to do," said Ali.

But there are real challenges to dismantling a network that exists all over the world and primarily online.

"How do you, either from a parenting side, or from a national security perspective, how do you get your arms around it? Because it is so vast, and it's so unregulated for the most part," Ali told the I-Team.

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SEE ALSO | '10 minutes of murder': Why one family is speaking out about the online extremist network 764

When the I-Team and ABC News first reported on 764 in the spring, we revealed the FBI was conducting 250 investigations across the country tied to 764 and similar networks. In the six months since, the FBI has opened at least 100 additional investigations.

"The 764 network is a is a tier one priority. The FBI, and, perhaps other parts of the U.S. National Security apparatus, are ramping up the level of effort on this network and trying to figure out how many people are involved, what are they doing, what crimes potentially are they committing. And, can we prosecute them, if at all?" said Ali.

At least 28 people have been charged by the Justice Department in recent years with suspected ties to 764 or affiliated networks. Many have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial.

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"We're going after the new form of what I refer to as modern day terrorism in America, 764 crimes that involve harming our children by going after them online, causing self-mutilation, suicide, sexual abuse and steering them in the wrong direction," Kash Patel, FBI Director, said before the Senate Judiciary Committee in September.

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tells the I-Team it's on track to receive nearly 2,000 reports of abuse tied to these networks this year, much of it starting on popular online platforms.

"When we started seeing these reports concerning online enticement, but with extremely egregious sadistic elements, our team immediately knew this was an outside of the norm and began tracking this trend specifically," said Fallon McNulty, executive director of CyberTipline at National Center for Missing & Exploited Children.

McNulty says members of 764 start to groom their victims on seemingly innocuous platforms and blackmail them into producing sexually explicit material, harming themselves, or even other children.

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"These offenders are coercing children to engage in horrific acts in attempt to gain notoriety online. So, in addition to enticing children to engage in sexually explicit conduct or produce sexually explicit material, we were also seeing offenders coerce children to be harming themselves, sometimes very severely, or abusing animals or other children that they have access to," McNulty said.

"Offenders are first making contact with children through online gaming platforms or through social media and then trying to move children to more private or encrypted messaging spaces," McNulty told the I-Team.

The more debased and violent the image or video a member is able to coerce a child to produce, the higher their standing in 764.

"They're striking up communication or chat in gaming, they are trying to seek what that child's interests are, what that child's vulnerabilities are, their personal information, and then they're using that against the child," warned McNulty.

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Prosecutors say Baron Martin ran a brutal branch of 764 out of Arizona, often targeting struggling children. Weeks ago, the Justice Department took the extraordinary step of charging the 21-year-old with conspiring to provide material support to terrorists, referring to 764. He also faces 28 other federal offenses. Martin's attorney says he will plead not guilty.

Carin Duryee, who recently left the Justice Department after 27 years, was on the prosecution team.

"It's a big deal where he ended up. It's also an attempt to show the public how serious this conduct can be and how damaging it can be," said Duryee.

ABC News Anchor JuJu Chang talked to the parents of 13-year-old Jay Taylor, who died by suicide after authorities say a 764 member in Germany pushed him to take his own life.

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"Just completely stunned. Jay's not in my life anymore? I couldn't grasp that," said Leslie Tayor.

Now, three years later, a medical student in Germany has been charged there with Jay's murder, and more than 200 counts of sexual abuse and violence of more than 30 victims. Authorities say he is nicknamed White Tiger. He has denied all charges.

"The fact that the perpetrators are having access directly to our kids' mind versus their physical well-being is extremely scary," said Colby Taylor.

Advocates trying to prevent child victimization say they have never seen anything like 764. They recommend monitoring children's online activities, looking for sudden behavior or appearance changes, and educating the family and caregivers about these dangerous extremist groups.

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Additional resources:

To report an incident to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children CyberTipline: https://report.cybertip.org/

For more resources on child sexual exploitation, including how to talk to your child about this topic: https://report.cybertip.org/other-resources

To report an incident of child exploitation to the FBI: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/cenp

If you are experiencing suicidal, substance use or other mental health crises please call or text the new three digit code at 988. You will reach a trained crisis counselor for free, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also go to 988lifeline.org or dial the current toll free number 800-273-8255 [TALK].
The Parkridge Specialty Care nursing home in Pleasant Hill is facing a wrongful-death lawsuit filed by the family of Kerry Morris, inset. (Main photo via Google Earth; inset photo courtesy the family of Kerry Morris)

An Iowa nursing home company has faced at least 17 wrongful-death and negligence lawsuits over the past 16 months, a review of court records shows.

The lawsuits have been filed against Care Initiatives, a nonprofit corporation based in West Des Moines that operates 43 Iowa nursing homes as well as several assisted living centers and hospice locations.

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While some of the lawsuits have been settled out of court and dismissed during the past 16 months, others are still being litigated or have been stayed as the disputes are handled through private arbitration. In each of the lawsuits, Care Initiatives has denied any wrongdoing.

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The company, which says it does not comment on pending litigation, cares for roughly 2,800 elderly or disabled Iowans who receive care in one of its state-licensed nursing facilities or assisted living centers.

The latest lawsuit, brought by the estate of Maris Bergis, seeks unspecified compensatory and punitive damages from Care Initiatives and one of its nursing homes, Parkridge Specialty Care of Pleasant Hill, for alleged dependent adult abuse, recklessness, negligence and wrongful death.

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The lawsuit alleges Parkridge negligently cared for Bergis and violated numerous regulations, laws, rights, and industry standards, causing (him) personal injury, illness, harm, and a decline in health.

According to the lawsuit, Bergis was admitted to Parkridge on Sept. 1, 2023, for a 48-hour stay following his hospitalization for pneumonia. Upon admission, he was allegedly alert, awake and oriented, and Parkridge was tasked with providing physician-prescribed breathing treatments and monitoring him for difficulty with breathing and any signs of anxiety, confusion or restlessness.

During the course of Bergis stay at Parkridge, the staff at the home allegedly failed to administer the breathing treatments. The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing subsequently cited Parkridge for its care of Bergis finding that it had delayed providing necessary medical care and treatment.

While the lawsuit does not indicate when, where or how Bergis died, it claims the gross negligence, and/or recklessness of Care Initiatives and Parkridge were the cause of Bergis decline in health, injuries, damages and untimely death.

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State inspection reports indicate Bergis was alive, but was increasingly nonresponsive, late in the afternoon on Sept. 4, 2023, which was three days after his admission to Parkridge. The inspection records indicate Bergis was sent to a hospital by ambulance at his spouses insistence, but they provide no information as to the hospitals diagnosis or treatment outcome.

Other wrongful death or negligence lawsuits that have been litigated against Care Initiatives over the past 16 months include:

Northcrest Specialty Care, Waterloo: In January 2024, the family of the late Lora Pavlovec sued, alleging Pavlovec was admitted to Northcrest in January 2022 after which the home failed to provide sufficient, qualified staff to meet her needs, specifically as related to skin care and the prevention of pressure sores. That alleged failure, the lawsuit claimed, resulted in severe pain, septic shock and, in May 2022, Pavlovecs death. The matter was resolved shortly before trial with the family filing a motion to dismiss the case.

Northcrest Specialty Care, Waterloo: In January 2024, the family of the late Janice Schmitt sued, alleging Schmitt died on Sept. 28, 2022, after sustaining multiple traumatic subarachnoid hemorrhages and bone fractures as a consequence of a fall caused by the homes negligence. The case is pending, with a trial scheduled Feb. 17, 2026.

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Northcrest Specialty Care, Waterloo: In January 2024, the family of the late John Nichols sued, alleging he was admitted to Northcrest on Feb. 8, 2022, and, eight days later, fell while in the shower. Nichols was taken to a hospital where he allegedly died hours later due to a brain bleed attributed to the fall. Care Initiatives successfully fought to have most of the familys claims settled through arbitration. Court records indicate the lawsuit is currently stayed, pending the outcome of the arbitration proceedings.

Northcrest Specialty Care, Waterloo: In May 2023, the family of the late Georgia Demuth sued for negligence and wrongful death, alleging Demuth died in June 2021 as the result of Northcrests failure to provide adequate care. In September 2024, the family filed a motion to dismiss the case.

Southridge Specialty Care, Marshalltown: In January 2024, the family of the late Larry Nichols sued, alleging that within a few weeks of Nichols admission to Southridge in March 2022 he suffered from sepsis and septic shock caused by the staffs failure to treat pressure sores and wounds. Nichols died on July 24, 2022. In April 2025, in response to Care Initiatives efforts to have the case dismissed due to an arbitration agreement, a judge ordered the bulk of the case to proceed to arbitration with the remaining claims against Care Initiatives stayed pending the outcome of arbitration.

Centerville Specialty Care: In October 2024, the family of the late Debbie Thomas sued, alleging that Thomas suffered second-degree burns on one leg due to a heating element near her bed and that she sustained a serious pressure sore the staff failed to adequately treat. Thomas allegedly died after being admitted to a hospital where she was diagnosed with a 4-inch-long pressure sore, an infection and dangerously low potassium levels. A trial is scheduled for Jan. 12, 2027.

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Corning Specialty Care: In January 2024, the family of the late Angela Segebart alleged Segebart was admitted to the Corning home in September 2017 and that on Jan. 20, 2022, she tested positive for COVID-19. On Jan. 27, 2022, the staff allegedly dropped Segebart while transferring her in or out of bed, resulting in two broken legs. The lawsuit claims the staff then failed to assess Segebarts injuries and placed her back in bed. Two days later, she was experiencing respiratory problems and was transferred to a hospital, where she subsequently died. Care Initiatives successfully fought to have the bulk of the case settled through arbitration, and the family filed a motion to dismiss its lawsuit against the company in September 2024.

Wapello Specialty Care: In March 2023, the family of the late Alice Ward used, alleging that after Ward was admitted to the Wapello home in June 2021, she was deemed to be at a high risk for falls. In February 2022, she allegedly wandered from the home, fell and sustained a neck fracture and head wound, and then died five days later. The judge in the case stayed the court proceedings pending the outcome of arbitration and in May 2025 the lawsuit was dismissed at the familys request.

Avoca Specialty Care: In January 2024, the family of the late Craig Christensen sued, alleging the staff at the Avoca home failed to treat Christensens urinary tract infection, leading to the development of sepsis, septic shock and, on Feb. 20, 2022, death. The attorney for the family later informed the court a settlement in the case had been reached and in June 2025 the case was dismissed.

Ravenwood Specialty Care, Waterloo: In May 2025, the family of the late Mickey Neal sued, alleging negligence and wrongful death. The lawsuit claims Neal was admitted to Ravenwood on March 15, 2024 and that two weeks later, on April 3, 2024, the staff allegedly found him on the floor of his room, incontinent and bleeding from a head wound. He was then transferred to UnityPoint Allen Hospital where he died on April 7, 2024. A trial is scheduled for July 13, 2027.

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Corydon Specialty Care: In December 2024, the family of the late Gloria August sued, alleging her death after a series of falls in 2020 and 2021 was caused by the Corydon homes negligence. In October 2025, the family filed a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

Parkridge Specialty Care, Pleasant Hill: In June 2024, the family of Neuang Boun Sisamouth sued, alleging that on June 20, 2022, the staff at Parkridge failed to respond to her deteriorating condition, despite dangerously low blood sugar levels. Licensed Practical Nurse Dezaree Major failed to call 911 as ordered, and there was a 90-minute delay in transporting Sisamouth to the hospital, where she was pronounced dead a short time later, the lawsuit claims. A trial is scheduled for March 29, 2027. In 2022, the Iowa Board of Nursing alleged Major was working at an unspecified Iowa nursing home in 2021 where, for five months, she falsified various medical records and performed nursing services beyond the scope of her license.

Parkridge Specialty Care, Pleasant Hill: In August 2024, the family of the late Kerry Morris sued, alleging that Morris died at age 58, one week after being admitted to Parkridge for what was supposed to be a temporary stay to assist with recovery from a leg amputation. The lawsuit claims that on the evening of Aug. 23, 2022, two nurses failed to respond to a certified nurse aides request that they come to the assistance of Morris, who was in respiratory distress at the time.

Morris was allegedly left alone in his room, fell out of his bed, and went into cardiac arrest while the CNA unsuccessfully sought assistance from the staff. Workers were then unable to find the homes crash cart, the lawsuit claims, adding that video evidence shows that there were at least six people who were not attempting to assist Kerry Morris and who were standing in the hallway. In July 2025, the lawsuit was dismissed at the request of Morris family.

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Fonda Specialty Care: In October 2024, the family of Marvin Pete Jacobs sued, alleging negligence and wrongful death. Jacobs died in February 2023 at Fonda Specialty Care, after which the state alleged the staff had repeatedly failed to clear Jacobs tracheostomy tube, which provided an airway for him to breathe.

Pocahontas County prosecutors later charged caregiver Becky Sue Manning, 70, of Lake View, with felony wanton neglect of a health care facility resident. Manning entered an Alford plea of guilty to a reduced charge in which she didnt admit to the underlying allegations, but acknowledged there was sufficient evidence to prove wanton neglect should the case go to trial. The Jacobs familys lawsuit has been stayed while the matter is handled through private arbitration.

In a separate but related civil-court proceeding, former Fonda Specialty Care employee Tylene Schultz is suing Care Initiatives for wrongful termination, alleging that after Jacobs death she received multiple text messages from a supervisor saying, Keep your mouth shut and keep your opinions to yourself, along with instructions that she should not communicate with Jacobs family. A trial is scheduled for Aug. 4. 2026.

Crestview Specialty Care, West Branch: In January 2025, the family of Ruth Bartow sued, alleging recklessness, negligence and dependent adult abuse. The lawsuit cites state inspection reports that indicate an unauthorized male visitor was found in Bartows room on April 5, 2023, lying in bed with Bartow without any clothes on. A trial is scheduled for May 17, 2027.

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Odebolt Specialty Care: In February 2025, Elaine Gunderson sued, alleging negligence and breach of contract. The lawsuit claims that on July 2, 2024, the 88-year-old Gunderson was found at the bottom of a set of 13 concrete stairs that led from the Odebolt homes kitchen to the basement. Although the kitchen was considered a restricted area from which residents were barred, a staff member had allegedly propped open the door, allowing Gunderson to wheel herself into the area.

After she was found at the foot of the stairs, she was transported to a hospital where, according to state inspectors, she was admitted with a head wound that required seven stitches to close as well as bruises on her head, hands, legs, hips, both eyes and all over basically. The lawsuit has been stayed pending the outcome of arbitration proceedings.

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"We have informed their families, and the vessel is now free to resume normal operations," the manager said.

Iran released the Marshall Islands-flagged product tanker Talara on Wednesday, the vessel's manager, Columbia Ship Management, said in a statement, adding that the entire 21-member crew was safe.

"We have informed their families, and the vessel is now free to resume normal operations," the manager said.

This is a developing story.
The revelations come amid heightened tensions over Irans nuclear program.

Iranian scientists and nuclear experts conducted a second secret visit to Russia last year to seek sensitive laser technologies with potential nuclear weapons applications, the Financial Times reported on Wednesday, citing documents, correspondence, and travel records.

The meetings allegedly linked Russian military research institutes and Irans Organization of Defensive Innovation and Research (SPND), which the United States accuses of leading Tehrans past nuclear weapons work.

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According to the report, Damavand-Tech, identified as a SPND front company, organized a November 2024 trip for an Iranian laser expert delegation from Tehran to St. Petersburg.

The scientists traveled on consecutively numbered diplomatic passports issued for the purpose by Irans Foreign Ministry, the FT said.

The delegation visited a facility of Laser Systems, a Russian firm under US sanctions that develops dual-use technologies for civilian and classified military purposes, the report said.

People pray for rain following a drought crisis at Imamzadeh Saleh shrine in Tehran, Iran, November 14, 2025. (credit: MAJID ASGARIPOUR/WANA (WEST ASIA NEWS AGENCY) VIA REUTERS)

Academic and institutional records indicate the travelers were not Damavand-Tech employees, but physicists and engineers from Iranian universities and defense-linked research centers, including Shahid Beheshti University and Malek Ashtar University of Technology, a Defense Ministry-run institution under sanctions.

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The FT cited Jim Lamson, a senior fellow at the James Martin Center for Nonproliferation Studies and a former CIA analyst, as saying the Iranian team appeared to be seeking laser technology and expertise that could help them validate a nuclear weapon design without conducting an explosive test.

State Department sanctions on Damavand-Tech, and its CEO

In October 2025, the US State Department sanctioned Damavand-Tech and its CEO, Ali Kalavand, for acting on behalf of SPND to procure items applicable to the development of nuclear explosive devices from foreign suppliers, according to the FT.

The paper also reported previous efforts by the company to obtain small quantities of sensitive radioisotopes, including tritium, which can be used to boost the yield of nuclear warheads.

The contacts reportedly ran both ways. Andrei Sabin, a Laser Systems researcher and professor at the Baltic State Technical University, visited Tehran in February 2025, meeting Damavand-Tech representatives and figures suspected of ties to SPND, a briefed source told the FT.

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Nicole Grajewski, a nuclear policy fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, called the meetings strong evidence that Russia has assisted Iran with weapons-related research, adding that the activity appeared to be state-approved at a high level in both countries, according to the report.

The revelations come amid heightened tensions over Irans nuclear program. In June 2025, the United States carried out strikes against Iranian nuclear targets, dealing significant damage, according to US assessments.

The Pentagon later said the strikes degraded Irans program by up to two years, while Western diplomats cautioned that Tehran retained critical infrastructure and enriched uranium stockpiles.

In late September 2025, Britain, France, and Germany triggered the UN snapback mechanism, leading to the reinstatement of global sanctions on Iran. Israel welcomed the move as vital to curbing Tehrans nuclear ambitions, while Iranian officials warned of retaliatory steps.

Irans Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei later mocked former US president Donald Trumps claim that the summer strikes had obliterated Irans nuclear industry, saying, keep dreaming, underscoring the dispute over how far the attacks set back Tehrans capabilities.
Health bosses need to keep pressing home the importance of islanders getting vaccinated to protect them against serious diseases, according to Jersey's head of Public Health.

Jersey met 10 out of 14 pre-school vaccination targets recommended by the World Health Organisation, according to the latest health figures for 2024.

Prof Peter Bradley said "vaccinations protect us against serious disease" and added there was a "continual need" to get the message to patients.

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Vaccination levels for pre-school boosters, which help protect people against diphtheria, tetanus, polio, measles, mumps and German measles, were at 93.2 %, just below the 95% target, health bosses said.

Take-up of teenage vaccinations for the herpes virus  HPV - were at about the 80% target and compared well with other parts of the British Isles, according to the latest figures.

However, only 9% of islanders aged 60, and 27% of those aged 70, had the shingles vaccine in 2024, which was below the targets.

Prof Bradley said he hoped more people aged over 60 would take advantage of the free vaccine and added: "The shingles vaccine does protect you for quite a nasty disease."

'Effective and safe'

Maitiu O'Tuathail, Jersey GP, said the most common complication from shingles was "horrific" chronic pain.

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He said: "It's something we still see quite a lot of because the vaccination rates are not where they need to be at."

He said the pain was very difficult to treat and sometimes it never went away but the "effective and safe" shingles vaccine could prevent it.

He urged patients to get vaccinated and said while Jersey's vaccination record was very good there was a need to keep scepticism about jabs at bay.

"The amount of vaccine hesitancy, mistruths, and concern with regard to vaccines are increasing both online and in social media," said Dr O'Tuathail.

He said the States and Public Health needed "to constantly remind people that what they need to do is look at the truth and the facts and not the mistruths and misinformation that's out there".

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At least 13 people have been killed in an Israeli air strike on a Palestinian refugee camp in southern Lebanon, according to the Lebanese Ministry of Public Health.

The drone strike hit a car on Tuesday in the car park of a mosque in the Ein el-Hilweh refugee camp on the outskirts of the coastal city of Sidon, the Lebanese state-run National News Agency reported.

At least four people were wounded in the attack, the ministry said, adding that ambulances are still transporting more wounded to nearby hospitals.

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Israel said it struck members of the Palestinian armed group Hamas who were operating in a training compound in the refugee camp.

When we say we will not tolerate any threat on our northern border, this means all terrorist groups operating in the region, the Israeli militarys Arabic spokesperson Avichay Adraee said in a statement. We will continue to act forcefully against Hamass attempts to establish a foothold in Lebanon and eliminate its elements that threaten our security.

Hamas denied Israels claim, calling it a fabrication and stressing the group doesnt have training facilities in Lebanons refugee camps.

The Zionist bombardment was a barbaric aggression against our innocent Palestinian people as well as Lebanons sovereignty, it said in a statement.

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Earlier on Tuesday, Lebanon said Israeli strikes on cars elsewhere in the countrys south killed two people.

Israel has killed several officials from Palestinian factions, including Hamas, in Lebanon since it launched its war on Gaza in October 2023, after Hamas led an attack on southern Israel





Israels genocidal war on Gaza has killed at least 69,483 Palestinians and wounded 170,706. A total of 1,139 people were killed in Israel during the October 7, 2023, Hamas-led attacks, and more than 200 were taken captive.

A day after Israel launched its war on Gaza, Hezbollah began firing rockets towards Israel, which responded with shelling and air strikes in Lebanon, and the two sides became locked in a conflict that Israel escalated into a full-blown war in late September 2024.

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Israels war killed more than 4,000 people in Lebanon, including hundreds of civilians. In Israel, 127 people were killed, including 80 soldiers.





The war halted in late November 2024 with a United States-brokered ceasefire, but since then, Israel has carried out dozens of air attacks on Lebanon, accusing Hezbollah of trying to rebuild its capabilities.

Lebanons Health Ministry has reported more than 270 people killed and about 850 wounded by Israeli military actions since the ceasefire.

There are daily violations of the ceasefire by Israel in Lebanon, and it would be unfair at this stage to pin the blame on the Lebanese government, Lebanese political analyst Karim Emile Bitar told Al Jazeera. The Lebanese government went above and beyond what was required  and took a historic decision to ask the Lebanese army to disarm Hezbollah.

However, Bitar said, Israel has not lived up to its end of the bargain. Under the terms of the ceasefire signed on November 27, 2024, Israel was meant to withdraw its forces from southern Lebanon by January 26, a deadline it missed.
For Palestinians held within Israels prison network, torture, abuse and contempt for life isnt just the norm, its the system.

Thats according to report released this week [PDF] by the NGO Physicians for Human Rights-Israel (PHRI).

In the report, PHRI reveals the details of at least 94 Palestinian prisoners killed while in Israeli detention. The true number is likely far higher, the reports authors concede. All of those killed died from either torture, assault, wilful medical neglect or malnutrition.

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The report builds upon a tranche of evidence of abuse and torture published by a variety of human rights organisations, both inside Israel and internationally.

Its not just [far-right National Security Minister Itamar] Ben-Gvirs policy, its an Israeli policy directed against Palestinians in Israeli custody, in military and civilian deterioration facilities alike, one of the reports authors, Oneg Ben Dror, told Al Jazeera.

Included in the testimonials [PDF] is the case of 33-year-old Abd al-Rahman Mari from the occupied West Bank, whose body  a latticework of bruises, contusions and fractures  was returned to his family after he died in Megiddo prison in November 2023.

Another prisoner, 17-year-old Walid Khaled Abdullah Ahmad from Nablus, was returned to his family with his body having next to no muscle or fat remaining, despite his family saying that he had been an athlete before his arrest in September 2024. A post-mortem revealed that Walid died six months after his arrest, with post-mortem findings indicating he had suffered severe and prolonged malnutrition.

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Yet another detainee, 25-year-old Arafat Hamdan from the occupied West Bank village of Beit Sira, only lasted two days in military custody before he died. A type 1 diabetic, Arafat needed regular insulin injections to stay alive. Witnesses to Arafats death report him being brutally beaten and his medication withheld.





Systems of hatred

Testimonies, official records, and extensive evidence collected by PHRI and other organisations indicate that, alongside Israels genocidal war on Gaza, there has been an unparalleled campaign of assault against detained Palestinians.

Israel is thought to have arrested more than 18,500 Palestinians since the war on Gaza began in October 2023. Many of those have fallen victim to the kind of routine abuse documented by rights groups such as Human Rights Watch (HRW), the Israel-based BTselem, and the Palestinian Centre for Human Rights (PCHR).

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In addition to the thousands whose detention has been documented, there are an unknown number taken as part of an Israeli policy of enforced disappearances in the first few months of the war, legalised through Israels Unlawful Combatants Law.

Two years on, many of those disappeared may no longer be alive. Thousands of Palestinians from Gaza are unaccounted for; of those, hundreds were reported to have been taken by the Israeli military. The concern is that many of them are no longer alive, Ben Dror said.

Accusations that Israel has been torturing its prisoners, including United Nations staff, have run almost the length of the war. In August 2024, BTselem issued its report on the Israeli prison system titled Welcome to Hell, detailing the physical, psychological and sexual abuse meted out to Palestinians taken into Israeli custody.

Both PHRI and HRW have also previously investigated the specific torture of healthcare workers by the Israeli military in stark contravention of international law. Among other instances of the brutal treatment were threats to cut prisoners hands off because they were dentists and forcing doctors to bray like donkeys.

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Israel has previously stated that it treats Palestinian prisoners in accordance with international law.

Palestinians, some holding images of relatives held in Israeli jails, protest and call for their release at Duwar al-Manara (Manara Square) in Ramallah, in the Israeli-occupied West Bank, July 21, 2024 [Jaafar Ashtiyeh/AFP]

System of denial

Sde Teiman is the only case that has reached the Israeli public, but we are aware of many more, Ben Dror said of the gang rape of a Palestinian man in the Sde Teiman military prison in July 2024 whose prosecution, if not perpetration, has divided Israeli society.

Sde Teiman was only reported because the injuries were so extensive that the victim had to be admitted to a public hospital, where a large number of people became aware of the case, she continued.

None of the other reports of rape and sexual abuse carried out against Palestinian prisoners  such as the suspected, and ultimately fatal, rape of Dr Adnan al-Bursh in Ofer prison in March 2024  have gained much attention within Israel.

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Instead, politicians such as Ben-Gvir, who has responsibility for Israels prison system, are confident enough to actively boast of ensuring that prisoners food is reduced to the minimum of the minimum, despite a July report from the Palestinian rights group Addameer documenting what researchers termed the drastic and deliberate reduction in quantities of food and water allowed to prisoners.

Haaretz tends to cover these things, but thats about it, Israeli political analyst Nimrod Flaschenberg said, referring to the popular liberal Israeli news outlet. But if I look at the coverage given to this latest [PHRI] report, theres nothing. Maybe a few individual leftist websites have picked it up, but thats it.

People just dont know. Im not saying if they did know thered be any great moral outcry, but thered be something, he continued. For now, statements like those from Ben-Gvir on prison conditions are popular. He wouldnt say them if they werent.

Far-right Israeli Minister of National Security Itamar Ben-Gvir has boasted of poor conditions within Israeli prisons [File: Ahmad Gharabli/AFP]

Nevertheless, despite the overwhelming evidence of abuse within Israels prison network, in late October, Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz renewed the ban on allowing international agencies, such as the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), to inspect its prisons.

Horrific reports on the treatment of Palestinians in detention have been met with inaction and ignored, with Israel blocking ICRC access and independent oversight, Milena Ansari from HRW said. This isnt about isolated abuses, but a broader pattern carried out with impunity. Without accountability, the violence will only deepen, and more deaths in Israeli detention will continue to emerge.
Israel's haredi draft crisis intensifies as court ruling forces action, while political divisions and protests make it difficult to see a path forward.

For months, the coalitions showdown over haredi (ultra-Orthodox) enlistment unfolded like a drama with no final act  all buildup, no climax, and plenty of stalling.

Then came Wednesday, when two developments, one from within the haredi world and one from the High Court of Justice, collided to signal that the era of delay is ending and the crisis is hitting zero hour yet again.

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The day began with the Lithuanian rabbinic leadership finally breaking its silence about the controversial haredi conscription bill that has stalled in the Knessets Foreign Affairs and Defense Committee.

After weeks of internal debate and growing pressure, Rabbis Dov Lando and Moshe Hillel Hirsch issued what can best be described as a pale green light.

They authorized Degel Hatorahs MKs to resume discussions in the committee on what has become known as the Bismuth draft law, but they withheld approval of the law itself.

Ultra-Orthodox Jews clash with police outside the IDF Recruitment Center at Tel Hashomer, central Israel, April 28, 2025 (credit: Avshalom Sassoni/Flash90)

They did not endorse any of its provisions. They did not instruct the faction to support it in the plenum. They simply permitted discussion.

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The timing and phrasing were intentional. This was a gesture toward the coalition, not a commitment.

It was a signal that negotiations could continue, not that haredi leadership was ready to climb down from its long-held insistence that full-time yeshiva students must remain exempt.

It was a way of keeping the door open while ensuring the final decision remained in the rabbis hands.

But that cautious gesture  the first sign of movement on the bill in weeks  triggered an immediate response within the coalition itself.

Within minutes of the announcement, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ordered Boaz Bismuth, the committee chair, not to advance the bill.

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The reason was obvious: Netanyahu feared walking into a political trap.

Prime Minister Netanyahu risked pushing forward a law without UTJ backing

Without explicit backing from the United Torah Judaism leadership, the prime minister risked pushing forward a law that the haredim themselves might abandon at the last moment, leaving him exposed to anger over a bill that much of the public opposes as not going nearly far enough.

Worse yet, the haredim could still vote against the final version if they decided the sanctions were too harsh, meaning Netanyahu could be left holding a law that offered the public only minimal change and still cost him the coalition.

Netanyahu has made clear that he will not move the legislation forward without a firm commitment of political support. He wants a guarantee, not a rabbinic signal of permission to discuss.

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And such a commitment is far from assured, given the internal divisions inside Agudat Yisrael and within parts of the haredi world, the eruption of haredi street protests, and the radicalized atmosphere, including intermittent acts of violence against haredi politicians.

If Netanyahu hoped that the rabbis statement would buy him some time, he soon found out that time on this issue was no longer on his side.

Because only a few hours after the rabbinic announcement,the High Court of Justice issued what could prove to be one of the most consequential decisions in years in the never-ending legal battle over haredi conscription.

In a sharply worded, unanimous ruling by Supreme Court Deputy Chief Justice Noam Sohlberg and four other justices, the High Court demanded that the government do what it has resisted for decades: enforce the law on haredi draft evasion.

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The ruling declared that the state must pursue real criminal proceedings against haredi draft evaders, end all benefits linked to draft evasion, and, within 45 days, produce a concrete, effective, and professionally grounded enforcement policy.

Since the exemption law expired in June 2023, there is no longer any legal basis for blanket yeshiva deferments.

In principle, haredi men who are not in service or are individually exempted are now in violation of existing law.

The judges emphasized that the state must quickly reach a point where its criminal enforcement rate against haredi evaders is no lower than the rate applied to all other groups  a seismic shift given the near-nonexistent enforcement of recent years.

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This decision leaves no practical room to recreate the elaborate bypass channels that previous governments used to maintain the yeshiva funding system. If a policy enables circumvention  whether through indirect stipends, creative budget transfers, or administrative filters  it fails the High Courts test.

Taken together, the message was unmistakable: The era of symbolic laws, loopholes, and non-enforcement is over. The state must act  not someday, not in theory, but now.

This puts the coalition in an impossible position. On the one hand, advancing a law that meets the High Courts standard would require sanctions and enforcement measures that the haredi parties have rejected for years.

On the other hand, advancing a law that meets the ultra-Orthodox parties demands would almost certainly be struck down again, thrusting Israel back into a constitutional crisis at a time when public patience  and reservists stamina  is nearing its limits.

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Pressure is also mounting inside the haredi community itself, and not only from the political leadership.

In recent weeks, the crisis has spilled into the streets in the form of angry demonstrations by extremist factions who oppose any compromise on enlistment.

That tension boiled over when Shas MK Yoav Ben-Tzurs car was attacked on Saturday night by haredi protesters, enraged that Shas was considering agreeing to advance the proposed law.

Windows were smashed; trash was thrown; the scene captured the growing radicalism among groups convinced that even discussing enlistment is a betrayal of principles.

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This radicalism matters because it limits the rabbis freedom to maneuver.

Leaders not prone in any event to show great flexibility cannot strike compromises if they fear that their own constituents  not secular Israelis, not the High Court, not the opposition, but their own community  will turn on them.

All of this unfolds even as the Bismuth draft itself faces deep structural problems.

The bills enlistment targets are minimal, its sanctions weak and riddled with loopholes, and its definition of haredi far too liberal.

Facing a shortfall of 10,000-20,000 combat soldiers, the IDF has already testified that the bill does not meet operational needs and relies mainly on recruits who will not serve in combat roles.

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In short, Israel faces a draft bill that cannot meet the High Courts standard nor the armys needs, and will satisfy neither the haredi leadership nor the general public.

One way or another, it now seems, the era of forever kicking this issue down the road is coming to an end.
Sigma Lithium (SGML) shares closed 32% higher on Nov. 17 after Li Liangbin, the chairman of Ganfeng Lithium Group, forecast a 30%-40% increase in global lithium (LMZ25) demand for 2026.

Liangbins projection suggests lithium carbonate prices could climb to as much as 200,000 yuan a ton next year, more than double its price at the time of writing.

More News from Barchart

Despite todays rally, SGML stock remains down roughly 40% versus its year-to-date high.

www.barchart.com

Heres Why Sigma Lithium Stock Is Worth Buying

Ganfeng isnt the only vertically integrated lithium company thats forecasting a massive increase in the metals demand.

Albemarles (ALB) chief executive has also recently projected a more-than-2.5-times increase in lithiums demand for stationary application through the end of this decade.

Thats because lithium demand is no longer restricted to electric vehicle (EV) applications only. Artificial intelligence (AI) and data centers have created substantial new requirements for lithium-based energy storage systems.

The demand for stationary storage in North America is up nearly 150% this year, primarily driven by AI-powered data center expansion requiring enhanced grid stability solutions.

This evolving market dynamic could help Sigma Lithium stock reclaim some of its lost ground in 2026.

SGML Shares to Rally as Company Achieves Profitability

Sigma Lithium shares are particularly well-positioned to capitalize on renewed sector optimism as the companys recent earnings report suggests its balance sheet is stronger than investors had feared.

SGML has resumed production at its flagship Grota do Cirilo project in Brazil, with the mine expected to ramp up to normal levels in the coming weeks.

Additionally, the mining firm is on the cusp of profitability, with full-year profits expected as early as 2026, according to BMO analysts. The profitability milestone could drive SMGL shares higher as well.

In short, the rising demand could prove transformative for Sigma since higher lithium prices would provide meaningful operational leverage given the companys relatively fixed cost structure.

Whats the Consensus Rating on Sigma Lithium?

Wall Street analysts also recommend sticking with Sigma Lithium stock heading into 2026.
MILAN (AP)  Italys highest court on Wednesday approved the extradition to Germany of a Ukrainian man suspected of setting off explosions that damaged Nord Stream pipelines between Russia and Germany more than three years ago.

The defense lawyer for 49-year-old Serhii Kuznietsov said that his client would be turned over to German authorities within the next few days, after the Cassation Court rejected a final defense appeal. Defense lawyer Nicola Canestrini expressed confidence that his client would be acquitted at trial.

The explosions ruptured the Nord Stream 1 pipeline, which carried Russian natural gas to Germany under the Baltic Sea until Russia cut off supplies at the end of August 2022.

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They also damaged the parallel Nord Stream 2 pipeline, which never entered into service, because Germany suspended its certification process shortly before Russia went to war with Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022.

Kuznietsov was detained on a European arrest warrant on Aug. 21 at a campground near the Adriatic coastal city of Rimini, where he was vacationing with his family.

German prosecutors say that Kuznietsov organized and carried out the detonation of at least four bombs between 14 and 27 kilograms (around 31 to 62 pounds) at a depth of 70 to 80 meters (230 feet to 263 feet) in the Baltic Sea near the Danish island of Bornholm on Sept. 26, 2022, according to extradition documents.

Kuznietsov has denied involvement in the explosions, saying he was in Ukraine where he was serving as an army captain at the time of the blasts.

Poland has blocked the extradition to Germany of another suspect.
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The gravitational lens MACS JO416 which may have help the JWST detect the first stars born after the Big Bang. | Credit: Image: NASA, ESA, CSA, STScI, Jose Diego (IFCA), Jordan D'Silva (UWA), Anton Koekemoer (STScI), Jake Summers (ASU), Rogier Windhorst (ASU), Haojing Yan (University of Missouri); Image Processing: Joseph DePasquale (STScI)

Astronomers have discovered that the James Webb Space Telescope (JWST) may have already found the long-sought first generation of stars born shortly after the Big Bang.

These initial stars, referred to as Population III or POP III stars, dwell in a galaxy called LAP1-B which was previously studied by the $10 billion space telescope. The light from this galaxy has been travelling for 13 billion years to reach the JWST, meaning that we see LAP1-B as it was just 800 million years after the Big Bang.

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One of the scientists behind the discovery says this could be the first time we've seen such ancient stars. "If indeed then stars of LAP1-B are Pop III, this is the first detection of these primordial stars," team leader Eli Visbal from the University of Toledo told Space.com. "To discover POP III stars, we really needed the sensitivity of JWST, and we also needed the 100 times magnification from gravitational lensing from a galaxy cluster between us and LAP1-B."

This galaxy is so distant that it was only visible, even to the highly sensitive infrared vision of the JWST, thanks to a phenomenon first predicted by Albert Einstein in his 1915 theory of general relativity. Known as gravitational lensing, this phenomenon describes the magnification of light from a distant object via the warping of space by an intermediate massive body. The gravitational lens that magnified LAP1-B is a massive cluster of galaxies that lies between Earth and LAP1-B at a distance of around 4.3 billion light-years, called MACS J0416.1-2403 (MACS0416).

Identifying the universe's firstborn stars

The JWST sees the galaxy LAP1-B as it was during an age of the universe called "the epoch of reionization," during which ultraviolet light from the first stars and galaxies is thought to be transforming neutral gas of hydrogen and helium into a charged superheated gas called plasma. As such, it marks the end of the "cosmic dark ages."

These POP III stars are thought to have formed before this epoch; coming together around 200 million years after the Big Bang, after the universe had expanded and cooled enough to allow electrons and protons to form the first atoms of hydrogen, the lightest element in the cosmos.

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"In the standard model of cosmology, POP III stars form in very small dark matter structures that serve as building blocks for larger galaxies," Visbal said. "Thus, they teach us about the earliest stages of galaxy formation and evolution. They may also constrain the properties of dark matter since alternative dark matter models impact where they first form."

That means astronomers have been keen to identify POP III stars, but this first generation of stellar bodies has thus far proved hard to spot.

"POP III stars have been elusive because they mostly form at early times, so they are very far away and in small clusters," Visbal said. "This makes them very faint."

Because POP III stars were forged at a time when the universe was filled with little more than hydrogen and helium, with just a smattering of heavier elements (which astronomers call "metals"), the first generation of stars should stand out from modern "metal-rich" stars like the sun (a POP I star) due to their low-metallicity.

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This low metallicity had another impact on POP III stars, too, allowing them to reach tremendous masses equivalent to 100 times that of the sun and more. Additionally, POP III stars are also thought to cluster in relatively small groups due to their vast masses.

"Simulations indicate that since primordial gas cools less efficiently than gas with heavy elements like carbon and oxygen, there is less gas fragmentation during star formation," Visbal said. "This leads POP III stars to be more massive than metal-enriched stars, possibly with typical masses of 100 times the mass of the sun."

Indeed, the team found that the stars in LAP1-B are surrounded by gas with minimal traces of metals, and that they seem to be in groups of around 1,000 solar masses.

These findings also suggest that gravitational lensing could be an effective way to hunt for more POP III stars at early times, or at high redshifts.

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"Until we did the calculation, I thought our model would find that Pop III stars are too rare at a redshift of 6.6 to be found in a strongly magnified part of a gravitational lens. I was pleasantly surprised to find that our calculation showed that they should be common enough to observe behind a cluster like MACSJ0416," Visbal concluded. "Next, we want to perform more detailed hydrodynamical simulations of the transition from Pop III to Pop II stars [the universe's second generation of stars] to see if they are consistent with the spectrum of LAP-1B and similar objects."
This is an adapted excerpt from the Nov. 18 episode of The Briefing with Jen Psaki.

A bill that will compel the Justice Department to release the Epstein files is officially on its way to Donald Trumps desk  and I cannot possibly overstate how remarkable that is.

House Speaker Mike Johnson did everything he possibly could to stop this from happening, sending lawmakers home for a month over the summer and refusing to swear in a duly elected member of Congress for weeks.

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Trump tried desperately to stop this from happening. The presidents henchman tried to strong-arm a Republican member of Congress in the Situation Room.

None of it was enough. None of it worked. They tried everything they could to stop it, and they failed.

We would not be here, at this moment, without the activism of so many fearless survivors who have shared their incredibly traumatic personal stories and pushed Congress to finally take action.

In the end, the pressure from Trump and Johnson and all of their Republican allies was no match for the pressure from those survivors.

Just a week ago, there were only four Republicans in the House supporting the release of files relating to the investigation against the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein  four Republicans who stuck their necks out and resisted a tremendous pressure campaign by Trump and his administration.

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But fast-forward one week, and the Epstein Files Transparency Act has passed both the House and the Senate with only a single lawmaker voting no. (Just for the record, that no vote came from Republican Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, who will have a lot of explaining to do in the coming days.)

The bill itself is extraordinary in its potential impact but also pretty straightforward in its actual text. It requires Attorney General Pam Bondi to release all documents and records in possession of the Department of Justice relating to Jeffrey Epstein no later than 30 days after its enacted.

The Epstein Files Transparency Act is now on its way to Trumps desk, where he can either sign or veto it, which feels like it wouldnt sit well with Congress, given that it passed with a veto-proof majority.

In other words, Congress forced Trumps hand. Even the president himself seemed to know where this was all headed. When it became clear he could not stop the momentum behind this bill, he decided to try to save face and told Republicans they should vote in favor of releasing the files.

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Given just how desperately the president fought to keep these files sealed, Im pretty skeptical of his sudden about-face, and I dont think I am the only one.

During a news conference on Capitol Hill on Tuesday, survivor Haley Robson spoke directly to Trump. And to the president of the United States of America, who is not here today, I want to send a clear message to you: While I do understand that your position has changed on the Epstein files and Im grateful that you have pledged to sign this bill, I cant help to be skeptical of what the agenda is, she said.

I want to relay this message to you, Robson continued. I am traumatized. I am not stupid.

There is a good reason to question whether Trump had a change of heart. The president doesnt actually need Congress to compel him to release these files. He could have done that himself at any moment  and he didnt.

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Thats not to mention it was just last week that we got a trove of more than 20,000 emails from the Epstein estate, and Trumps name appeared more than any other figure in those emails, with Epstein himself alleging that Trump knew about the girls.

Its hard to imagine that, after all that, Trump suddenly wants even more Epstein documents to become public.

Then theres the investigation that Trump ordered into several prominent Democrats over their alleged ties to Epstein, which could just be a ploy to block the release of those files.

According to the text of the bill just passed by Congress, the attorney general can withhold any files that would jeopardize an active federal investigation or ongoing prosecution, provided that such withholding is narrowly tailored and temporary.

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So could Trump try to use that provision, along with his new investigation, to block the release of any files he doesnt want out there?

Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, one of the few members of the presidents party who has pushed for the release of these files from the start, is already warning that Trump could use that loophole to conceal the files.

If they have ongoing investigations in certain areas, those documents cant be released, Massie told ABC News. So this might be a big smoke screen, these investigations, to open a bunch of them as a last-ditch effort to prevent the release of the Epstein files.

Now, its clear this fight isnt over. But Massie and his fellow lawmakers deserve a lot of credit for getting this bill passed. However, the people who deserve the most credit, far more than any elected official, are the survivors, who have been relentless and courageous and have pledged to keep fighting until everyone involved in Epsteins despicable crimes is brought to justice.

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So while their fight continues, those survivors have done something few thought possible: They took on the most powerful person in the world, and they won.

Allison Detzel contributed.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani will have one familiar face in his administration when he takes office in January.

NYPD Commissioner Jessica Tisch announced Wednesday that she accepted Mamdani's offer to remain in her position when Mamdani succeeds Mayor Eric Adams.

Late into his mayoral campaign, Mamdani, 34, said he would not replace the commissioner if elected. The mayor-elect cited the city's drop in shootings, murders and transit crime since Tisch, 44, began her tenure as the commissioner in November 2024.

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"I look forward to working with Commissioner Jessica Tisch to deliver genuine public safety in New York City. I have admired her work cracking down on corruption in the upper echelons of the police department, driving down crime in New York City, and standing up for New Yorkers in the face of authoritarianism," Mamdani said. "Together, we will deliver a city where rank-and-file police officers and the communities they serve alike are safe, represented, and proud to call New York their home."

He credits Tisch's leadership for achieving:

The fewest shooting incidents and shooting victims in recorded history over the first ten months of the year.





Murders down nearly 20 percent citywide year-to-date.





More than 4,800 illegal guns removed from the city's streets in 2025.





Reductions in six of the seven major crime categories.





Citywide index crime down across patrol precincts, NYCHA developments, and the subway system





The four safest months in transit in 15 years - with July, August, September, and October marking record safety underground outside the pandemic years.

"Thanks to the men and women of the NYPD, the strategies we deployed this year have delivered historic reductions in crime," Tisch said. "I've spoken to Mayor-elect Mamdani several times, and I'm ready to serve with honor as his Police Commissioner. That's because he and I share many of the same public safety goals for New York City: lowering crime, making communities safer, rooting out corruption, and giving our officers the tools, support, and resources they need to carry out their noble work."

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She also sent a department-wide email Wednesday morning to officers and said leading the NYPD is the greatest privilege of her life.

"Now, do the Mayor-elect and I agree on everything? No, we don't. But in speaking with him, it's clear that we share broad and crucial priorities: the importance of public safety, the need to continue driving down crime, and the need to maintain stability and order across the department. We also agree that you deserve the city's respect and support," she said.

Tisch said she agreed to stay after "several conversations" with Mamdani that made clear the two do not agree on everything but share the same goals.

"I appreciate that the Mayor-elect wants a team with different points of view - a team where ideas and policies are debated on their merits. In those discussions, you can trust that I will be a fierce advocate for you and for this department. You know how I operate: I don't mince words. When I say something, I mean it. And that is not going to change," Tisch added in the email message.

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During the campaign, Mamdani disavowed his past support for "defunding" the NYPD and apologized for referring to officers as "racist." PBA president Patrick Hendry praised the decision.

"She understands what police officers go through on a daily basis. And we're happy that she's staying as police commissioner," Hendry said.

Bill Ritter talks to former NYPD Commissioner Bratton about Jessica Tisch's decision to join the Mamdani administration.

Several other leaders applauded the appointment, including Mayor Eric Adams.

"Mayor-elect Mamdani is recognizing our public-safety efforts were right and that they will continue into the future," Adams said. "We all want a safer city, and keeping Commissioner Tisch in place and supporting our police officers every day with the policies we have implemented, is exactly how we do that."

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Others chimed in on social media, including New York Attorney General Letitia James, Gov. Kathy Hochul and U.S. Rep. Nicole Malliotakis

Im glad to see @NYPDC Jessica Tisch will continue her work as Commissioner under our Mayor-Elect @ZohranKMamdani.



Under her leadership, murders are down to record lows, and our city is safer than its been in years. I look forward to our continued work protecting New Yorkers.  NY AG James (@NewYorkStateAG) November 19, 2025

As governor, my top priority is keeping New Yorkers safe.@NYPDPC Tisch has been a steadfast partner in driving crime down to historic lows and improving public safety across the city.Im glad shell be continuing that work under Mayor-elect @ZohranKMamdani.  Governor Kathy Hochul (@GovKathyHochul) November 19, 2025

This is positive news for our city. @NYPDPC Tisch has done a good job and she will be a steady hand wholl be able to advise the new mayor on public safety and policing issueshopefully hell listen! https://t.co/9CjfdrIE4t  Nicole Malliotakis (@NMalliotakis) November 19, 2025

Jackie Rowe-Adams, a key voice in NYPD community engagement who has developed a strong relationship with the commissioner, also supported the decision.

"I'm glad that she was smart enough to say, 'yes, I'll stay on,' because what she got started already, she can continue," said Jackie Rowe-Adams of Harlem Mothers And Fathers S.A.V.E.

The commissioner earlier this year, took questions from kids at the Harlem Police Athletic League with Rowe-Adams's organization and others.

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The mayor's office gets a lot of say in financial support for programs under the Department of Youth and Community Development.

Mamdani appealed to younger voters. Rowe Adams is reserving judgement to see what actions he takes to keep the next generation safe.

"And if he really cares about NYPD and saving this city, he'll work well with our commissioner because she cares, and she wants this city safe and save our youth," Rowe-Adams said.

Commissioner Tisch is an 18-year veteran of public service.

Prior to joining the NYPD, she led the New York City Department of Sanitation, where she oversaw the "Trash Revolution," the most significant modernization of the city's waste system in decades. She launched citywide containerization, redesigned collection routes, and expanded litter basket service to improve cleanliness across all five boroughs.

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Before leading the Sanitation Department, she served as Commissioner of the New York City Department of Information Technology and Telecommunications, where she oversaw the city's technology response to COVID-19 - distributing more than 700,000 iPads to public school students and standing up the contact-tracing and vaccine-distribution systems that supported the city's recovery.

Prior to that, as the NYPD's Deputy Commissioner of Information Technology, Commissioner Tisch modernized core police operations and advancing transparency, including body-worn cameras.

Commissioner Tisch began her public service career in 2008 in the NYPD's Counterterrorism Bureau.

(ABC News contributed to this report.)

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In the days leading up to the Nov. 8 agreement eight moderate Senate Democrats made with Republicans to end the government shutdown after 40 days of party unity, much speculation centered on one senator in particular. According to the Wall Street Journal, Senate Republicans saw Georgias Jon Ossoff, who is widely acknowledged as the most vulnerable Senate Democrat up for reelection in 2026, as among the most likely to fold.

Rumors on social media about his possible capitulation chilled Democrats, including one of Ossoffs own constituents, Teresa Acosta of Dunwoody, Georgia, who has depended on Affordable Care Act subsidies to provide health care coverage for her family. Democrats were united: No reopening the government without extending the tax credits. She didnt want her senator to cave.

As it turned out, Acosta and Democrats had nothing to fear. When the deal was announced to a tsunami of vitriol from the Democratic rank-and-file, who were angry that all the eight senators had extracted from Senate Majority Leader John Thune, R-S.D., was a word-of-mouth promise to allow a vote on extending subsidies for the Affordable Care Act, Ossoffs name was nowhere to be found.

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In retrospect, that shouldnt have come as a surprise. The senator had long telegraphed, even before it became Democrats rallying cry for the length of the shutdown, that health care subsidies were his red line. Then again, Democrats are famous for having red lines  and for allowing Republicans to breach them, time and again, with little to no consequence.

But this one was real. During the ramp-up to the passage of President Donald Trumps beloved One Big Beautiful Bill Act this summer, Ossoff offered an amendment to extend those very ACA tax credits. Instead of adding trillions to the debt in tax cuts for the rich while destroying Medicaid and renewable energy, I propose we help our constituents afford health insurance, he said in remarks on the Senate floor. If we allow Affordable Care Act benefits to expire  as this bill would  more than a million Georgians will pay more for health insurance next year A vote against this amendment is a vote to gut the Affordable Care Act and raise health insurance premiums.

Senate Republicans blocked the amendment and passed the bill.

In remarks and events throughout the summer, Ossoff continued to sound the alarm, including during a rousing speech in Savannah where he said, It turns out that when Donald Trump said he was gonna fight for working-class Americans, what he really meant was he was gonna take away your health care to cut taxes for the rich.

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Even with rhetoric and actions like these, as the Senates most endangered Democrat, it would have been easy for Ossoff to join his colleagues in folding and to justify it, as they did, that the shutdown was simply too painful for his constituents and the American people. He refused.

One can make an argument that such a move would have made electoral sense. Unlike the eight senators, all of whom are either not up for reelection in 2026 or are retiring, Ossoff is facing a tight race in a state that Joe Biden narrowly carried in 2020 and Kamala Harris lost four years later. The nonpartisan Cook Political Report with Amy Walter has rated it as a toss-up.

Despite the fact that it has two Democratic senators, including Rev. Raphael Warnock, Georgia remains a state that is only recently emerging as purple. Theres still a lot of red, particularly in its rural areas, and Ossoff could well have benefited from being seen as moving to the center and banking some moderate and bipartisan credibility with GOP voters  20% of whom, according to a surprising finding in a recent Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll, strongly or somewhat approve of the senators job performance.

But at what cost? Caving on the ACA subsidies would have infuriated his Democratic base  and could have even netted him a primary challenger from the left. More importantly, it would have painted Ossoff as yet another inauthentic Democrat, willing to talk a big game about health care and affordability and being on the side of the working class, while selling them out when the going got tough.

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For Ossoff, the vote against ending the shutdown had another major upside: It simply reflected what he believed. In a statement to Salon, the senator pointed to the bleak reality facing his constituents. Premiums are set to double for 1.4 million Georgians and nearly half a million Georgians could lose health insurance altogether, he said. With health care votes ahead, the question is whether Republicans in Congress will join us to prevent catastrophic increases in health insurance premiums.

One of those Georgians is Acosta, a 49-year-old single mother of three teenagers, one of whom has Type 1 diabetes and requires daily medication. According to Acosta, her familys premiums are set to skyrocket by 620%  or around $450 a month  in 2026 after the subsidies expire. Its not something I can afford, she said.

Want more sharp takes on politics? Sign up for our free newsletter, Standing Room Only, written by Amanda Marcotte, now also a weekly show on YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts.

After she lost her job at a nonprofit due to the Covid-19 pandemic, Acosta started a catering business that sustained her family. It was my passion, she explained. With the help of the subsidies, Acosta was able to shift her family from Medicaid to the ACA, a move that basically saved us from pretty bad circumstances.

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That changed when Trumps so-called big beautiful bill passed. A former Republican who left the party in 2015 due its rightward swing and embrace of Trump, Acosta said she knew she needed to prepare for the spike in premiums. Already feeling financial pressure in her catering business due to increasing food costs, which she attributed to the presidents erratic tariffs, she decided to close the doors.

I cried packing every single box, Acosta said. It was devastatingYou hear the words the pursuit of happiness, and that became a reality for me. It wasnt just words on an old piece of paper. It was something I was actually achieving, and thats been taken away.

Acosta recently found a part-time job working for a food bank and hopes to move into a full-time job in the new year. But even those plans are precarious and dependent on the nonprofits funding.

Ossoffs stand on the ACA meant the world to me, she said. Acosta pointed to what she called the senators dedication during the shutdown in holding the line against Republicans and speaking out.

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But with the Senate campaign already heating up in the wake of this months off-year elections, the GOP is already hammering Ossoff for his shutdown stand. Jon Ossoff voted 15 times to shut down the government, said Nick Puglia, who serves as regional press secretary for the National Republican Senatorial Committee. Georgians wont forget that Ossoff made needy families go hungry, forced essential workers to work without pay, and ripped paychecks away from service members all to give free healthcare to illegals.

On Nov. 10, Rep. Mike Collins, a candidate in the GOP primary, released an outrageous deepfake digital ad using Ossoffs official Senate portrait. Through artificial intelligence technology, the senator comes to life and boasts about keeping the government shut down. They say itll hurt farmers but I wouldnt know, Ive only seen a farm on Instagram, the fake Ossoff says. And SNAP recipients? Dont think theyre at my New York and California fundraisers, so who cares?

When it was released, the ad garnered widespread criticism, including from Eric Von Haessler, a conservative talk radio host in Atlanta who is no fan of Ossoff. Collins, Von Haessler said, was dirtbag number one. The congressman was unashamed; his campaign doubled down and said it was embrac[ing] the future of digital campaigning.

Instead of trying to deceive voters with deepfake videos, low-integrity Congressman Mike Collins should explain why he supports doubling Georgians health insurance premiums, said Democratic Party of Georgia senior communications adviser Devon Cruz. Ossoff, who has long raised concerns about deepfakes, has pledged to not resort to such tricks.

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Instead, its clear hes comfortable letting his record  and his stand against Republican cruelty  speak for itself.

The post Jon Ossoff bets his 2026 race on protecting ACA subsidies appeared first on Salon.com.
The Jacksonville Sheriffs Office is addressing rumors of a serial killer on the loose in Jacksonville, following a series of homicide investigations involving women.

In a social media post Tuesday, JSO stated that the rumors are false and reassured the community that there is no danger to the public related to these incidents.

JSOs statement emphasized, We want to reassure the community there is no danger to the public related to these incidents.

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The Sheriffs Office confirmed that detectives are actively investigating recent homicide cases that involve female victims.

READ: Community leaders call for justice in the death of a Jacksonville woman found under bridge

READ: Two found dead hours apart on Eastside and Southside, JSO says

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A former aide to New York Mayor Eric Adams has been sentenced to three years' probation, including a year of home confinement, for soliciting illegal campaign contributions on behalf of the mayor.

Mohamed Bahi, who served as a liaison to the city's Muslim communities, received his sentence on Tuesday. During the proceedings, a federal judge highlighted the "elephant in the room": the fact that Mr Adams' own corruption charges were "erased" through a "remarkable intervention" by the Trump administration.

"There's a notable absence here of the person at the apex of the pyramid," said the judge, Dale E. Ho, who also presided over Adams' since-dismissed case. "It is hard to escape the impression that Mr. Bahi, as his counsel put it, is left here holding the bag."

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Bahi, 41, had pleaded guilty to helping solicit illegal donations from employees of a Brooklyn construction company during a December 2020 fundraiser for Adams' first mayoral campaign.

That case grew out of a sweeping corruption investigation into Adams and his campaign, which led to the mayor's indictment in September 2024 on bribery and campaign finance offenses. Earlier this year, the Justice Department moved to dismiss the case against Adams, arguing it was impeding his cooperation with President Donald Trump's immigration priorities.

Mohamed Bahi (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.)

The extraordinary development prompted protests and resignations from several top prosecutors, including the interim U.S. attorney in Manhattan, who accused Adams of striking a quid pro quo deal with Trump.

Adams has denied wrongdoing, insisting that the charges were political payback for his criticism of President Joe Biden's immigration policy. He ran for re-election this year as an independent, but ended his campaign early.

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In the months since the dismissal, prosecutors have continued their cases against those charged in schemes linked to the mayor's 2021 campaign, including a Brooklyn construction magnate who worked with a Turkish government official to funnel illegal donations to Adams.

An attorney for Bahi, Derek Adams, addressed those unusual circumstances Tuesday, accusing federal prosecutors of sparing "those in positions of power."

"The sentiment of the public," he added, was that his client was left "holding the bag" while Adams got off.

When Ho asked the government how he should weigh the fact that Adams was not facing charges, the prosecutor, Robert Sobelman, demurred, saying he could only discuss the case against Bahi.

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For his part, Bahi told the judge he had accepted "full responsibility for my actions" and was focused on rebuilding trust. "The integrity of elections is one of the most sacred rights we have, and I violated that," he said through tears.

Bahi previously said he was "instructed" by another Adams volunteer to set up the straw donation scheme, which allowed the campaign to collect larger contributions through the city's generous matching funds program.

Prosecutors also said Bahi deleted Signal, an encrypted messaging app, from his phone after learning that federal agents were outside his home. They had urged the judge to sentence him to one year in prison.

Bahi embraced his dozens of supporters in the courtroom after learning that he would avoid prison time. His confinement will allow him to leave home for work and to attend religious services, among other reasons.

"I'm feeling content that this whole ordeal is over," he told reporters as he left the courtroom. "Spending time with my family for a year is probably the best thing I can do."
A federal judge in Texas temporarily ordered the removal of the Ten Commandments posters from schools in several districts in the state, following a lawsuit by a group of parents who argued that the poster infringes on their religious liberty. The preliminary injunction, issued on Tuesday, requires the schools to remove the posters by Dec. 1 and bars them from displaying new ones.

U.S. District Judge Orlando L. Garcia wrote that displaying the Ten Commandments on the wall of a public-school classroom as set forth in S.B. 10 violates the establishment clause.

He added that it was impractical, if not impossible, to prevent Plaintiffs from being subjected to unwelcome religious displays without enjoining Defendants from enforcing S.B. 10 across their districts.

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The preliminary injunction thats part of the Cribbs Ringer v. Comal Independent School District lawsuit will affect 14 school districts, including the Fort Worth, Arlington, McKinney, Frisco, Northwest, Rockwall and Mansfield districts.

The organizations opposing the posters are asking all Texas school districts not to implement the law, according to the American Civil Liberties Union press release. All school districts, even those that are not parties in either ongoing lawsuit, have an independent obligation to respect students and families rights under the U.S. Constitution, which supersedes state law.

Attorney General Ken Paxton also sued three school districts  Round Rock ISD, Leander ISD and Galveston ISD earlier,  for not displaying the Ten Commandments posters, even though they had received the donations.

These rogue ISD officials and board members blatantly disregarded the will of Texas voters who expect the legal and moral heritage of our state to be displayed in accordance with the law, said Paxton. Round Rock ISD and Leander ISD chose to defy a clear statutory mandate, and this lawsuit makes clear that no district may ignore Texas law without consequence.

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He also previously said that America is a Christian nation and it is imperative that we display the very values and timeless truths that have historically guided the success of our country.

In August, a different judge temporarily blocked the law in 11 school districts as part of the Rabbi Nathan v. Alamo Heights ISD lawsuit.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott signed SB 10 in May 2025 after it passed the Texas Senate and House. The bill requires that the Ten Commandments be displayed in every public school classroom with the law taking effect on Sept. 1, 2025.

Similar laws also passed in Louisiana and Arkansas, where they have also been challenged and are currently tied up in legal battles. The schools do not have to spend funds from their budgets on the posters but are expected to display the posters they have received through donations.

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But Tuesdays preliminary injunction is a response to a lawsuit by a group of 15 families, of different religious and nonreligious backgrounds, who sued the state in the case.

Represented by the ACLU, the parents argued that the law violates the First Amendment by endorsing religion and coercing children to encounter a religious text in class, even if students belong to other faiths or no faith at all. By mandating the Ten Commandments posters in the classroom, the law impermissibly prefers a set of distinct religious beliefs and dictates and will impose those preferred religious beliefs and dictates on Texass public-school children, including the minor-child Plaintiffs, lawyers wrote on behalf of parents.

Supporters of the law see the presence of the Ten Commandments in the classroom as a way of cultivating ethical and moral values in the students. The Ten Commandments are part of our Texas and American story, said Sen. Phil King, R-Texas, who introduced the legislation along with state Sen. Mayes Middleton, R-Texas. They are ingrained into who we are as a people and as a nation. Today, our students cry out for the moral clarity, for the statement of right and wrong that they represent. If our students dont know the Ten Commandments, they will never understand the foundation for much of American history and law.

After Tuesdays blocking of the order, plaintiffs celebrated the victory.

I am relieved that as a result of todays ruling, my children, who are among a small number of Jewish children at their schools, will no longer be continually subjected to religious displays, said plaintiff Lenee Bien-Willner in the ACLUs statement. The government has no business interfering with parental decisions about matters of faith.
A federal court has blocked Texas from using its new congressional map for the 2026 midterm elections, directing the state to revert to its previous districts.

The majority opinion said the coalition of voting and civil rights groups who sued was likely to prove at trial that Texas officials had "racially gerrymandered" a new map that "unconstitutionally sorts voters on the basis of race," depriving the plaintiffs of "their right to participate in a free and fair election."

The judges were under a tight deadline to make a ruling since the candidate filing period for the 2026 midterm elections began on Nov. 8 and ends on Dec. 8.

Democratic Texas Representative Gene Wu speaks during a press conference after the passing of H.B. 4, during a session in which Democratic lawmakers, who had left the state to prevent Republicans from redrawing Texas's 38 congressional districts, returned to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Texas State Representative for House District 95 Nicole Collier sleeps in the House chamber, where she has chosen to remain until Wednesday, after Democratic lawmakers who had left the state to prevent Republicans from redrawing Texass 38 congressional districts returned to the Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 19, 2025. Collier is staying in the chamber because she did not want to sign the required permission slip allowing lawmakers to leave the Capitol under escort by Department of Public Safety agents. Democratic State Senators huddle with staffers as the Republicans' attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. State Sen. Carol Alvarado, a Democrat, asks questions about the redistricting process as Republicans attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. Republican State Senator Pete Flores looks over redistricting maps as the Republicans attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. Democratic State Sen. Roland Gutierrez holds a discussion with Republican State Sen. Lois Kolkhorst and Democratic State Sen. Cesar Blanco as the Republicans attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. Democratic State Sen. Molly Cook asks questions to Republican Sen. Phil King as the Republicans attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. Democratic State Sen. Royce West asks questions to Republican Sen. Phil King as the Republicans attempt to pass a bill that would redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, at the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 22, 2025. State Representative Matt Morgan (R-TX) holds a map of the new proposed congressional districts in Texas, during a legislative session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Republican Texas State Representative Todd Hunter, surrounded by most of the Republican members of the House of Representatives, speaks during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. U.S. Representative Al Green attends a protest during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Speaker of the Texas House of Representatives Dustin Burrows bangs the gavel during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. A group of Democratic Representatives refer to themselves as the "Collier 7" take a photo during a legislative session, as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. A computer screen shows a section of the proposed congressional district map while Democratic Texas State Representative Gene Wu sits at his desk during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Democratic Texas State Representative Diego Burnal speaks during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Republican Texas State Representative David Lowe wears a button with the words "Big Beautiful Map" during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Democratic State Rep. Nicole Collier asks questions about H.B. 4 during a session as Democratic lawmakers, who left the state to deny Republicans the opportunity to redraw the state's 38 congressional districts, begin returning to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025. Democratic Texas Rep. Cassandra Garcia Hernandez speaks at a news conference outside of the House chamber in the State Capitol on Aug. 19, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Democratic Texas Nicole Collier is being joined by several of her democratic constituents in spending the night on the House floor. Tonight, will mark the second consecutive night that Collier will be spending the night after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democratic Texas Rep. Mihaela Plesa tears her Department of Public Safety escort form during a news conference outside of the House chamber in the State Capitol on Aug. 19, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Democratic Texas Rep. Nicole Collier is being joined by several of her democratic constituents in spending the night on the House floor. Tonight, will mark the second consecutive night that Collier will be spending the night after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democratic Texas Rep. Penny Morales Shaw displays a poster of Democratic Texas Rep. Nicole Collier during a news conference outside of the House chamber in the State Capitol on Aug. 19, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Rep. Nicole Collier is being joined by several of her democratic constituents in spending the night on the House floor. Tonight, will mark the second consecutive night that Collier will be spending the night after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democratic Texas Rep. Cassandra Garcia Hernandez holds a Department of Public Safety escort form during a news conference outside of the House chamber in the State Capitol on Aug. 19, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Democratic Texas Rep. Nicole Collier is being joined by several of her democratic constituents in spending the night on the House floor. Tonight, will mark the second consecutive night that Collier will be spending the night after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. (Photo by Brandon Bell/Getty Images) People demonstrate, calling for the release of Democratic Texas Rep. Nicole Collier in the State Capitol on Aug. 19, 2025, in Austin, Texas. State Rep. Nicole Collier has spent the night on the House floor after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The Texas State Capitol is seen on Aug. 19, 2025, in Austin, Texas. State Rep. Nicole Collier has spent the night on the House floor after refusing a mandatory escort by Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Lawmakers convene for roll call during a House meeting on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Demonstrators chant as lawmakers are welcomed back ahead of a House meeting in the state Capitol on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Demonstrators chant as lawmakers are welcomed back ahead of a House meeting in the state Capitol on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democratic Texas Rep. Ramon Romero attends a news conference at the conclusion of a House meeting on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Democratic lawmakers are welcomed back upon arrival at a House meeting in the state Capitol on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu attends a news conference at the conclusion of a House meeting on Aug. 18, 2025 in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Texas House Democratic Caucus Chair Gene Wu attends a news conference at the conclusion of a House meeting on Aug. 18, 2025, in Austin, Texas. Texas Democratic lawmakers returned to the state Capitol after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session, ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. The Texas State Capitol is seen on Aug. 19, 2025, in Austin, Texas. State Rep. Nicole Collier has spent the night on the House floor after refusing a mandatory escort by the Department of Public Safety. Collier is one of dozens of Democratic lawmakers who fled the state earlier this month after a two-week standoff with Republicans over their newly introduced plan to redraw Texas' congressional maps during a first special legislative session ahead of the 2026 midterm elections. Texas Democrats return, continue to protest redistricting efforts by Republicans 1 of 31 Democratic Texas Representative Gene Wu speaks during a press conference after the passing of H.B. 4, during a session in which Democratic lawmakers, who had left the state to prevent Republicans from redrawing Texas's 38 congressional districts, returned to the Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas, on Aug. 20, 2025.

Republican Gov. Greg Abbott, a key proponent of the electoral changes, said he would appeal the ruling to the U.S. Supreme Court. U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi followed up, posting on social media: "We strongly disagree with todays district court ruling on Texass redistricting map - Texass map was drawn the right way for the right reasons. We look forward to Texass victory at the Supreme Court."

We strongly disagree with todays district court ruling on Texass redistricting map - Texass map was drawn the right way for the right reasons.



We look forward to Texass victory at the Supreme Court.  Attorney General Pamela Bondi (@AGPamBondi) November 18, 2025

Any claim that these maps are discriminatory is absurd and unsupported by the testimony offered during ten days of hearings, Abbott said in a statement. This ruling is clearly erroneous and undermines the authority the U.S. Constitution assigns to the Texas Legislature by imposing a different map by judicial edict.

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The decision marks a significant setback for the state and Republicans, which began with a contentious battle in its state Legislature last summer, led to a vote to revise state maps for voting districts, and ultimately spurred other states to buck tradition and pursue mid-decade redistricting.

Two judges, in a three-judge District Court panel, ruled on Nov. 18 that the injunction was necessary because "the racial minorities the Plaintiff Groups represent will be forced to be represented in Congress based on likely unconstitutional racial classifications for at least two years."

The majority opinion, written by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey V. Brown, a Donald Trump appointee, who sits in Galveston, Texas, was joined by Senior U.S. District Judge David C. Guaderrama, a Barack Obama appointee, in El Paso.

U.S. Circuit Judge Jerry E. Smith, who was appointed to the bench by President Ronald Reagan, is expected to file a dissenting opinion.

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A Republican majority in the Texas Legislature in August 2025 passed the new state congressional map after a weeks-long standoff with state Democrats. Their new law, at the urging of President Donald Trump, heavily advantaged the GOP in 2026 elections. If used, it could have potentially flipped as many as five Democratic-held seats to Republican control  a significant edge as the party maintains a slim majority in Congress.

In his statement, Abbott said the Texas Legislature passed the new maps to "better reflect Texans' conservative voting preferences  and for no other reason."

The court ruling and any decision by the U.S. Supreme Court could push back the filing deadlines for the Texas primaries for 2026. The midterm general election includes the seat of U.S. Sen. John Cornyn, R-Texas, all the Texas House of Representatives and Senate seats, and the governor, lieutenant governor and attorney general.

Republicans said redistricting targeted Democrats

The ruling came more than a month after 10 days of testimony and arguments over the legality of the new redistricting map at the federal courthouse in El Paso. The key testimony during the hearing came from Adam Kincaid, executive director of the National Republican Redistricting Trust, who created the maps.Kincaid testified that he looked at no racial data when building the map, solely relying on targeting districts that historically voted for Democrats.

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He said he combined Democrat-leaning districts into one district. He took Republican portions of those districts to create their own districts. The outcome gave Democrats one less representative, adding more representation for Republican voters.

Kincaid and Republican leaders said the redistricting was done "race blind." He testified he targeted Democrats, not minorities, which is allowed under the U.S. Constitution.

Voting rights groups say redistricting targets minorities

Democratic leaders and voting rights representatives argued during the hearing that the only districts targeted and impacted were Hispanic and Black majority districts. Hispanic and Black voters historically vote for Democrats.

In Texas, voters are not required to register by political party. They are free to vote in the primary of their choosing.

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The redistricting map suppresses the voice of Texas minorities, including Hispanics, who make up the largest minority population in the state, Democratic state leaders testified in the trial."They are not built to give Hispanics or African Americans a candidate of their choice, Rep. Joe Moody, D-El Paso, testified about the new maps.

Democrats and voting rights advocates questioned why Trump focused on four districts and why they were the only districts that were dramatically altered. They said Republicans had already created the map before discussions were held in the Texas Legislature and the public had an opportunity to comment on it.

"That's not Texas," testified Rep. Ramon Romero, D-Fort Worth. "That's not how we do things here."

The redistricting vote that sparked a chain reaction

The Texas legislators' efforts earlier this year sparked a national redistricting war across several states, as Democratic and Republican governors responded with their own efforts to redraw maps. Democratic California Gov. Gavin Newsom recently landed a victory in a voter-approved measure to implement new districts likely to add more Democratic representatives.

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But that matter is also entangled in a court challenge, after the administration on Nov. 13 joined the California Republican Party to accuse the state of violating the Constitution by gerrymandering using race as a factor to favor Hispanic voters in the new map.

Kathryn Palmer is a politics reporter for USA TODAY. You can reach her at kapalmer@usatoday.com and on X @KathrynPlmr.

Aaron Martinez covers the criminal justice system for the El Paso Times. He may be reached at amartinez1@elpasotimes.com or on X/Twitter @AMartinezEPT.

Contributing: Jeff Abbott, El Paso Times

(This article has been updated to add new information.)

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Court blocks Texas from using new GOP-friendly maps in 2026 midterms
A federal judge has denied the Trump administration's request to pause a ruling requiring the release of more than 400 people who have been arrested in the Chicago area, including during operation "Midway Blitz."

Those people were arrested without warrants. The judge says that may violate a previous consent decree requiring warrants for certain arrests.

The ruling requires those people be put on electronic monitoring after paying a bond by Friday.

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Jilver Lopez is on that list of hundreds of detainees. His wife, Marvella Severiano, told ABC7 he owns a local fence contracting company in Waukegan.

Federal agents arrested Lopez on the morning of Oct. 6 near West and Washington in Waukegan while on his way to work, Severiano said.

"They are asking every single night, 'Where is dad?'" Severiano said.

As a mother struggles to wipe her children's tears each night as they beg for their father, the judge's ruling could see her household whole again.

"They cry, but I had to tell them he's working. They don't know. They don't understand what's going on. But I try to do my routine like normal. But at the end of the day, it's hard," Severiano said.

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Severiano said Lopez, a 34-year-old undocumented immigrant from Guatemala, came to the United States in 2013.

"They were supposed to be working that day. It was a Monday, and then they just took him," Severiano said. "They never asked. They just took him. They broke the window from the car."

After spending more than a month in an Immigration and Customs Enforcement facility in Oklahoma, Lopez is now one of more than 400 detainees a judge ordered to be released, after paying bond, as soon as Friday, pending an appeal.

While the Trump administration's request was denied by a judge, attorneys on the case say the White House could still appeal.

ABC7 reached out to the Department of Homeland Security for comment but did not immediately hear back. In previous court filings, the agency argued that Congress stripped federal courts of their authority to grant parole to large groups of immigrants in ICE custody.
President Trump unveiled $12 billion in aid to US farmers, as the agricultural sector deals with the fallout from his sweeping tariff policies.

The sector has been hit particularly hard from the president's ever-changing trade policies, as farmers have struggled to sell crops and been hit by higher costs. Soybean exports have come in particular focus, with trade slowing to a crawl as China virtually halted its purchases before the countries agreed to a trade truce in October.

Trump said the money for farm relief would come from a "small portion" of tariff-related revenues. Despite welcoming the support, US farmers have said they need more than a $12 billion aid package to fully offset low crop prices and lost export opportunities due to Trump's trade war.

The farm bailout comes amid an increased push on Americans' price concerns. In an interview published Tuesday, Trump allowed he may look for "some" additional carveouts, weeks after his administration slashed tariffs on items like beef, coffee, and bananas.

The push to reduce food prices comes in the wake of electoral wins for Democrats across a number of key state and local races where candidates stressed affordability concerns. Trump has also in recent weeks floated the possibility of a tariff "dividend" for many Americans in the form of a $2,000 check.

The US Supreme Court is poised in the weeks ahead to decide the legality of the majority of those tariffs. The president invoked the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA) to levy blanket tariffs on goods from other countries. As he has publicly braced for the high court's decision, Trump has claimed the "full benefit" of tariff policies would take effect soon, arguing that foreign buyers who stockpiled inventory would be forced to buy more goods.

Read more: What Trump's tariffs mean for the economy and your wallet

What else to know about Trump's tariffs:

The trade deal between the US and Indonesia is in danger of collapsing, according to The Financial Times. US officials have grown increasingly frustrated at what they view as Jakarta reneging on the terms of the agreement reached in July.

Trump threatened to impose an additional 5% tariff on Mexico if it doesn't provide additional water to help US farmers. Trump accused Mexico of violating a treaty that outlines water sharing between the countries.

Trump gave the green light on Monday for Nvidia (NVDA) to sell some of its more powerful H200 chips to China. The US president said that China's Xi Jinping had responded "positively" to the move.

Several US companies, such as Costco (COST), have filed lawsuits and claims to the US government for tariff refunds in the belief Trump's tariffs will be struck down by the US Supreme Court. If the courts rule against Trump's tariffs, the president may be forced to repay billions of dollars in collected revenue from imports, according to a report in the New York Times.

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Jury selection continues on Wednesday in the high-profile murder trial of Brian Walshe, the Cohasset man accused of killing and dismembering his wife, Ana Walshe, on New Years Day 2023.

Watch live: Jury selection in Dedham's Norfolk Superior Court resumes at 9 a.m.

The case took a dramatic turn on Tuesday when Walshe admitted in court that Ana is dead, pleading guilty to two lesser charges of lying to investigators and disposing of her body.

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Despite those admissions, Walshe still faces a first-degree murder charge.

Nine of the 16 jurors needed for the trial were seated on the first day. The proceedings will now focus on whether Walshe is guilty of murder.

As of Wednesday afternoon, 12 jurors had been seated. Judge Diane Freniere is seeking a panel of 16 jurors.

12th juror now chosen for Brian Walshe murder trial. They are inching forward.

They are going to seat 16. Just four more to go. @boston25  Bob Ward Boston 25 (@Bward3) November 19, 2025

Brian Walshe appears in Norfolk Superior Court next to his attorney, Kelli Porges, after pleading guilty to two of three charges filed against him in Dedham, Mass., Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. (Mark Stockwell/Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Anas friend, Peter Raider, reacted to the bombshell guilty pleas.

I think its a good decision on his part. Certainly, you know, theres no other plausible explanation for what happened, Raider told Boston 25 News. At the end of the day, you have these children who now need to move on with their lives without their mother. And now plausibly without their father.

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Walshe has not yet been sentenced on the charges he admitted to.

Freniere told the court on Tuesday that Anas family members have requested to speak before sentencing.

Judge Diane Frenier will be presding over the murder trial of Brian Walshe in Norfolk Superior Court in Dedham, Mass., Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. (Mark Stockwell/Boston Herald via AP, Pool)

Walshe was deemed competent to stand trial last week. Had Walshe been found not competent, his charges may have been suspended indefinitely or even dismissed if his competency could not have been restored.

Last month, lawyers for Walshe asked Freniere to change the venue of his trial due to concerns over finding a fair and impartial jury. Freniere denied that motion on Friday, ordering the trial to go on as planned in Dedham.

This all comes after Walshe was stabbed inside the Norfolk County Sheriffs Correctional Center in September.

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Walshe is accused of killing and dismembering Ana with a hacksaw and disposing of her remains, which have never been found, after using his sons iPad to Google the best ways to get rid of a body.

Brian Walshe, left, is facing murder and other charges following the disappearance of his wife, Ana Walshe, left, on Jan. 1, 2023.

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Brian Walshe status hearing on his wifes murder case set for March 1

DA: Brian Walshe indicted on murder charges of wife Ana Walshe

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25 Investigates: Brian Walshes damaging digital footprint

Brian Walshe appears at Quincy District Court on a charge of murdering his wife (inset),Ana Walshe, in Quincy, Massachusetts, U.S. on January 18, 2023. (Photo illustration: Yahoo News; photos: Craig F. Walker/Pool via Reuters, Facebook)

Brian Walshe escorted into court for murder arraignment

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Brian Walshe appears in court for allegedly misleading police

The dumpsters taken away from Brian Walshe's mothers apartment. Taken to Peabody for investigation

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Brian Walshe spotted at juice bar day after wife disappears

Authorities search North Shore dumpster station for evidence in disappearance of Ana Walshe

Brian Walshe kisses his new bride, Ana Walshe, on their wedding day. (Facebook photo)

Ana Walshe

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Ana Walshe

Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home

Police investigating the area near Ana Walshe's home

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Police investigating Ana Walshe's home

Police investigating outside of Ana Walshe's Cohasset home

Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Police investigating Ana Walshe's home

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Ana Walshe and her husband Brian Walshe

Ana Walshe

Ana Walshe

The pool that was drained outside the Walshe home

Brian Walshe, the husband of Ana Walshe

In March 2023, a Norfolk County grand jury indicted Walshe on a charge of murder, misleading a police investigation/obstruction of justice, and improper conveyance of a human body in connection with his wifes death.

Ana, a mother of three young children and a real estate professional who worked in Washington, D.C., vanished on New Years Day 2023 and was reported missing a few days later, authorities said.

Prosecutors have alleged that Walshe killed his wife in their Cohasset home on New Years Day. The couples three young boys were reportedly home at the time.

Days after Anas disappearance, a hacksaw and a blood-soaked rug believed to contain biological evidence were recovered from their home by investigators.

Police later searched trash bins, dumpsters, trash trucks, and trash facilities in the areas where Brian Walshe traveled following her disappearance.

Prosecutors have also previously said that a broken knife with blood on it was found in the basement of the Walshe family home.

Walshe is currently serving a three-year prison sentence for selling fake Andy Warhol paintings. He has been held without bail since his arrest.

Opening statements and testimony in the trial are scheduled to begin on December 1.

The trial is expected to take up to three weeks.

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After two days of jury selection in the Brian Walshe murder trial, 12 jurors have now been seated.

Walshe is charged with the murder of his missing wife Ana Walshe over New Years 2023. Her body has never been found.

However, on Tuesday, Walshe shocked the courthouse when he pleaded guilty to lesser charges of lying to police and disposing of Ana Walshes body.

That was an unusual development in the case that I wasnt expecting, former Federal Prosecutor Brad Bailey told me.

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Walshes surprise legal maneuver means his jury will

Former Federal Prosecutor Brad Bailey tells me Walshes legal maneuver means his jury will only consider Walshes murder charge, and because Anas body has never been found, it could be up to Brian Walshe himself to tell jurors how his wife died, if she wasnt murdered.

Do you think its likely that Brian Walshe will take the stand?

I think 48 hours ago, I didnt think it was likely. But I think given those guilty pleas, I think hes leaving the option open to testify, Bailey said.

On Day 2 of jury selection efforts to find 16 jurors slowed to a crawl, with only three jurors seated all day

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I am surprised they got nine jurors yesterday, veteran Boston attorney Phil Tracy told me.

He adds that, between the court requirement for jurors to stay off social media and the fact that two major holidays are fast approaching, it can be difficult to find willing jurors.

Thanksgiving and Christmas, youre going to be with family and friends. If you are on the jury, its going to be brutal to not discuss the case, Tracy said.

Jury selection resumes on Thursday and will continue until the final four jurors are selected.

Opening statements and testimony are scheduled to begin on December 1st.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
(FOX40.COM)  The Sacramento Police Department responded to reports made by security personnel of a juvenile fighting with one person who had a gun.

 Video above: How to report a public safety threat

The police said the fight happened near the 400 block of K Street. Officers coordinated with security personnel and used SPDs Public Safety Camera Network to track down the armed juvenile who was still on K Street.

The juvenile was in possession of the handgun, and a second juvenile was found to own an imitation firearm, SPD said.

Sacramento police circled the handgun that was being carried by a juvenile./ Image: SPD

According to SPD, both juveniles were arrested for weapons-related charges.

Sacramento police are making an arrest./ Image: SPD

Another great example of teamwork and dedication from our officers towards keeping our community safe, according to SPD.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40 News.
Former Vice President Kamala Harris hit the campaign trail Tuesday for the first time since her 2024 election loss, backing a Tennessee Democrat ahead of an approaching special election.

Harris appeared at Fisk University in Nashville to urge residents to get out the vote. She did not tell voters to back state Rep. Aftyn Behn (D), who is running for Tennessees open House seat against state Rep. Mark Van Epps (R).

I thank you in advance for being active, Harris said, The Tennessean reported. This is about you. This is about your future. This is about your country. This is about your people  and who is the power with?

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The people, rallygoers yelled back.

Harris worked with the Tennessee Democratic Party and the Davidson County Democratic Party to launch a door-knocking campaign, which drew 200 people to the rally.

The former vice president was already set to come to Nashville this week as part of her book tour for her memoir 107 Days about her short campaign for president after former President Biden dropped out last year, The New York Times reported.

While Tuesday marked the first time she appeared in support of a candidate since last year, Harris did attend a rally to promote Proposition 50 in California, the statewide measure to redraw the Golden States congressional map and potentially gain as many as five more seats in Congress.

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Behn and Van Epps won their respective special election primaries last month to replace former Rep. Mark Green (R), who stepped down in July.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The Kenyan authorities paid a network of trolls to threaten and intimidate young protesters during recent anti-government demonstrations, Amnesty International has said.

A new report by the human rights organisation said government agencies also employed surveillance and disinformation to target organisers of the mass protests, which swept Kenya across 2024 and 2025.

The demonstrations were driven largely by "Gen Z" activists who used social media platforms to mobilise.

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In response to Amnesty's report, Kenya's interior minister said the government "does not sanction harassment or violence against any citizen".

But Amnesty said it had uncovered a campaign to "silence and suppress" the protesters.

Young women and LGBT+ activists were disproportionately targeted, with misogynistic and homophobic comment, as well as AI-generated pornographic images, the report said.

The BBC has approached the government for further comment.

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One activist told Amnesty: "I had people coming into my inbox and telling me: 'You will die and leave your kids. We will come and attack you'.

"I even had to change my child's school. Someone sent me my child's name, the age... the school bus number plate. They told me: 'If you continue doing what you're doing then we will take care of this child for you'."

It has long been believed that the government employs a network of individuals, known as "keyboard warriors", to push its online messages.

The report features a man who said he was part of a team paid between 25,000 and 50,000 Kenyan shillings (about $190-$390; 145-300) per day to amplify government messaging and drown out trending protest hashtags on social media platform X.

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As part of its research, Amnesty spoke to 31 young human rights defenders who had participated in the protests. Nine of these activists said they had received violent threats via X, TikTok, Facebook and WhatsApp.

As well as digital abuse, the authorities have also been accused of carrying out a brutal crackdown on the protests.

More than 100 people died, rights groups say, when police clashed with protesters during two waves of demonstrations - one in 2024 and one in 2025.

The authorities were also accused of arbitrary arrests, enforced disappearances and using lethal force against the protesters.

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The government accepted there had been some case of excessive force by police, but also defended the security forces in other instances.

The demonstrations railed against issues such as proposed tax rises, increasing femicide and corruption.

Amnesty chief Agnes Callamard said the organisation's report "clearly demonstrates widespread and coordinated tactics on digital platforms to silence and suppress protests by young activists".

"Our research also proves that these campaigns are driven by state-sponsored trolls, individuals and networks paid to promote pro-government messages and dominate Kenya's daily trends on X," she added.

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Kenya's Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen said: "The government of Kenya does not sanction harassment, or violence against any citizen... any officer implicated in unlawful conduct bears individual responsibility and is subject to investigation and sanction."

Amnesty also raised concerns about unlawful state surveillance, including allegations - denied by Kenya's largest telecom provider, Safaricom - that authorities used mobile data to monitor protest leaders.

You may also be interested in:

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After a disruptive U.S. government shutdown, federal SNAP food assistance is again flowing to low-income households. But in the months ahead, many participants will have to abide by new work requirements.

The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program provides monthly benefits  averaging around $190 per person  to about 42 million people nationwide. During the first couple weeks of November, many of those recipients missed their regular allotments as President Donald Trump's administration battled in court over whether to tap into reserves to fund the program while the government was shut down.

Heres what to know about SNAP:

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The benefits are available across the country after lapses

For the first part of the month, the situation was chaotic after the federal government said SNAP would not be funded because of the government shutdown.

Some states replenished the electronic benefit cards used in the program either fully or partially, using their own funds or federal dollars that were part of court orders. Others didn't.

Most states boosted food charities, but lines were long and some shelves were empty.

As soon as the government reopened on Nov. 12, many states rushed to get out benefits.

By Tuesday, all states either had loaded full November benefits onto peoples electronic spending cards or were working on it, according to an Associated Press review. Participants should receive December SNAP benefits according to their normal schedule.

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More SNAP recipients will face work requirements

A massive tax and spending bill signed into law in July by Trump expanded requirements for many adult SNAP recipients to work, volunteer or participate in job training for at least 80 hours a month. Those who dont are limited to three months of benefits in a three-year period.

The work requirements previously applied to adults ages 18 through 54 who are physically and mentally able and dont have dependents. The new law also applies those requirements to those ages 55 through 64 and to parents without children younger than 14. It repeals work exemptions for homeless individuals, veterans and young adults aging out of foster care. And it limits the ability of states to waive work requirements in areas lacking jobs.

The Trump administration waived the work requirements in November, but the three-month clock on work-free SNAP benefits will be in full force for much of the country in December. Under a Nov. 1 court order, the count will not yet begin in places with existing waivers in place due to relatively high local unemployment rates. Those waivers extending past this month cover all or parts of 10 states, the District of Columbia and the U.S. Virgin Islands, and are set to expire between the end of 2025 and January 2027, depending on the place.

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The new requirements are expected to reduce the average monthly number of SNAP recipients by about 2.4 million people over the next 10 years, according to the Congressional Budget Office.

Agriculture secretary casts doubt about SNAP

In the aftermath of the shutdown, Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, whose department administers SNAP, has cast doubt on the program. Rollins has said it is rife with fraud, including deceased people receiving benefits and some people receiving multiple benefits.

Rollins suggested that everyone who receives SNAP be required to reapply. But its not clear whether Rollins was suggesting an additional requirement or referring to the current one that mandates people to periodically recertify their income and other information.

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An Agriculture Department spokesperson didn't clarify but instead said in a statement that the standard recertification processes for households is part of a plan to eliminate fraud, abuse and waste.

Under federal law, most households must report their income and basic information every four to six months and be fully recertified for SNAP at least every 12 months. Full recertification can occur every 24 months for households where all adults are age 60 and above or have disabilities.

But states can require more frequent eligibility verifications. Last year, 27 states required at least some households to be fully recertified every four to six months, depending on their household circumstances, according to a USDA report.

___

This story was first published on Nov. 19, 2025. It was updated on Nov. 21, 2025, to correct that the three-month clock on work-free SNAP benefits will be in full force for much of the country in December, but not all of the country.
The intensively discussed files related to the disgraced former financier and sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein passed a significant milestone on Tuesday when Congress voted overwhelmingly in favor of releasing them.

After months of deliberate delays and manoeuvres, the House of Representatives voted by 427 to one in favor of the Epstein Files Transparency Act, legislation which would, if enacted, require the justice department to release all unclassified materials on Epstein, who died in jail in 2019 while awaiting trial on sex-trafficking charges. The Senate has unanimously agreed to swiftly pass the bill, which would then head to the White House for Donald Trumps signature.

Tuesdays sweeping passage was rendered all but inevitable after the president on Sunday reversed himself and called for the release of the files, declaring we have nothing to hide and labelling the controversy over the files a Democrat hoax.

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Related: What are the Jeffrey Epstein files, and will more be released?

Trumps volte-face followed the failure of intense White House efforts to persuade two female Republican members of Congress, Lauren Boebert and Nancy Mace, to withdraw their names from a discharge petition to force the House speaker, Mike Johnson, to hold a floor vote on releasing the files.

Faced with the prospect of numerous Republicans defying his wishes by voting with Democrats in favor of releasing the files, the president decided to cut his losses by bowing to the inevitable. Before Trump changed his tune on the files, Thomas Massie, the maverick Republican representative from Kentucky  who had co-sponsored the bill along with Democrat Ro Khanna  had predicted that 100 Republicans would vote for release.

In the event, Trumps green light appeared to have the effect of freeing even more GOP representatives of their previous inhibitions against joining all 214 House Democrats. Clay Higgins of Louisiana, a close Trump ally, was the sole member of the House to vote against the measure; five representatives did not vote.

How did it fly through the Senate so fast?

The bill appeared headed for at least some resistance in the Senate as of this weekend. John Barrasso, the Republican majority whip, had said he would take a look at the bill if it passed the House, but also told NBCs Meet the Press that he thought Democrats were more interested in turning Trump into a lame duck president than achieving accountability and transparency .

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But that resistance faded in the face of the overwhelming vote in the House. The lopsided vote helped Democrats push the measure through by the expedited procedure of unanimous consent, which does not require a formal roll call vote.

The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epsteins victims have waited long enough, Chuck Schumer, the top Senate Democrat, said in a floor speech on Tuesday. Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.

Will Trump sign it?

Trump told reporters on Monday that he would sign the bill if it arrives on his desk. Yet despite this pledge and his late U-turn on releasing the files, Trump could still use his presidential veto power to block its passage  though doing so at such a late stage would surely inflame suspicions that he has something to hide.

Could such a veto be overcome?

Yes. A presidential veto can be overridden if both chambers vote to do so by a two-thirds majority. Both chambers already surpassed that in spectacular fashion. The only member of Congress to vote against the bill was Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican representative.

What cards can Trump play if overwhelming congressional votes compel the justice department to make the files public?

Even if Trump signs the bill  whether of his own volition or by force because House and Senate majorities override his veto  his recent announcement of a justice department investigation into prominent figures (other than himself) mentioned in last weeks trove of Epstein emails released by the House oversight committee have fueled fears that any version of the files released could be incomplete or selective.

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Last Friday, Trump instructed the US attorney general, Pam Bondi, to open an investigation into links between Epstein and former president Bill Clinton; Larry Summers, a former US treasury secretary and ex-president of Harvard University; Reid Hoffman, a venture capitalist noted for funding Democrats and liberal causes; and the bank JPMorgan Chase. The investigation could enable the justice department to withhold certain documents on the argument that releasing them would be prejudicial.

In the final analysis, Trump could have ended all uncertainty by ordering the files to be released without waiting for Congress to force his hand.
Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass urged lenders and mortgage servicers to offer extended mortgage forbearance to residents still recovering from the January 2025 Los Angeles wildfires that claimed at least 30 lives, destroyed over 16,000 structures, and scorched nearly 60,000 acres.

Following the fires, mortgage delinquencies surged from about 700 to over 4,100 in one month. Bass is now requesting an additional three years of relief past the one-year requirement in state law.

While homeowners are currently benefiting from limited mortgage forbearance as they recover, that support will expire for the majority of families in the near future. With Bass plan, they would have four years of mortgage relief in total.

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"Mortgage forbearance creates temporary breathing room," CPA and attorney Chad D. Cummings of Cummings & Cummings Law tells Realtor.com.

But it's not "free money."

"I describe mortgage forbearance as a legally sanctioned delay of required monthly payments, not a forgiveness of principal or interest," says Cummings.

The years of loan relief would be added to the back of a homeowners current mortgage, under Bass' proposal. During the three-year reprieve, homeowners wouldn't be charged any additional fees or penalties, and this relief wouldn't negatively impact their credit.

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"With rebuilding underway across the Palisades and Los Angeles County, many impacted residents remain in temporary housing and face mounting financial strain," said Bass in a Tuesday press release.

"These families are already carrying more than anyone should have to. They're piecing life together while having to negotiate with contractors and wait for insurance claims to come through. Asking them to shoulder mortgage payments on top of all that would force them into an impossibleand unacceptablechoice.

Many local real estate agents are in favor of the mayor's proposal.

"Given all the red tape and difficulty wildfire victims have had trying to rebuild, I think extending mortgage relief for the next three years is a must," Cara Ameer, a real estate agent with Coldwell Banker in California, tells Realtor.com.

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"Many people have been caught in a tangled web with insurance companies who have been resistant to do the right thing all while still paying on a home that is no longer there or they cant occupy. Having additional time will allow people to get all sorted out and hopefully receive compensation they were entitled to."

A July 2025 aerial view of properties cleared of wildfire debris which burned in the Eaton Fire in Altadena, CA. (Photo by Mario Tama/Getty Images)

Current relief efforts

Under California's Assembly Bill 238, dubbed the Mortgage Forbearance Act, homeowners whose properties were destroyed or rendered uninhabitable by the fires are allowed to pause mortgage payments without late fees, penalties or risk of foreclosure for up to one year.

Bass stressed that extended assistance is crucial for long-term recovery.

"AB 238 is an important start, but one year simply isnt enough," Bass stated. "Families need more time to truly rebuild. We are urging our banking partners to join us in delivering meaningful relief at this critical moment.

Many survivors still displaced

A survey conducted in September by the Department of Angels, a fire recovery organization, found that 9 out of 10 Pacific Palisades residents and 8 in 10 Altadena residents have remained displaced.

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The group, which surveyed more than 2,300 people affected by the fires, also found that 75% of people in the Palisades and 67% in Altadena were living in temporary housing.

AccuWeather experts preliminarily estimate total damage and economic loss between $250 billion to $275 billion, which is as staggering as it is sobering due to one of the most destructive fires in modern U.S. history, AccuWeather chief meteorologist Jonathan Porter tells Realtor.com.

Next steps

Bass says she has already begun having preliminary discussions with the banking industry and vows to continue working to secure mortgage relief for wildlife survivors.

"I am encouraged that our partners in banking and business will recognize that this is the fair and compassionate solution our community needs," said Bass. "We've seen extended relief work in the pastand we know it can work here.

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Merie Yousef, who led real-time wildfire response mobilization across 40+ FirstTeam real estate offices in California, agrees.

"Extending mortgage forbearance would provide the breathing room families need to make long-term decisions rather than crisis-driven ones, preventing foreclosures, stabilizing neighborhoods, and giving communities space to rebuild with dignity," she tells Realtor.com.

"If California is serious about climate-driven disaster recovery, extended mortgage relief must become part of our core response toolkit."
A Los Angeles County man pleaded guilty Wednesday to possessing a Molotov cocktail during a summer protest in downtown Los Angeles stemming from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations.

Wrackkie Quiogue, 27, of Long Beach, entered a plea to a single federal count of possession of an unregistered destructive device, which carries a possible sentence of up to 10 years in prison, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.

Sentencing was set for Feb. 26 in downtown Los Angeles.

Trump administration sues California over law banning masked federal agents

The Trump administration filed a lawsuit over California's new laws banning federal agents from wearing masks and requiring them to have identification while conducting operations in the state.

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A Molotov cocktail is a hand-thrown incendiary weapon consisting of a breakable container filled with flammable substances and equipped with a fuse, typically a glass bottle filled with flammable liquids sealed with a cloth wick.

An affidavit filed with the charge states that Quiogue possessed the handmade device on June 8 while holding a lighter during protests near federal buildings in downtown Los Angeles. The document says Los Angeles Police Department officers saw Quiogue with the device and quickly arrested him, but he threw the device as he was attempting to flee.

"When protesting crosses the line into violence, the penalties will be severe," First Assistant U.S. Attorney Bill Essayli said in a statement when Quiogue was charged.

Essayli said that an attack such as the one alleged in the complaint "could have resulted in life-altering or life-ending injuries to police officers, sheriff's deputies, and innocent bystanders. We will not relent in dispensing swift justice to criminals who take advantage of our country's freedoms to engage in lawlessness."
Conservative leader Kemi Badenoch has said the government's Budget is unravelling before it has even been delivered, after the chancellor backed away from raising income tax rates.

Ministers had given strong indications it was planning to increase the tax - which would break an election pledge - but last week government sources said Rachel Reeves had decided against the move after better-than-expected economic forecasts.

During Prime Minister's Questions, Badenoch pressed Sir Keir Starmer over whether the government would "break another promise" instead by freezing income tax thresholds.

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The PM refused to rule this out, saying the chancellor would set out her plans in next week's Budget.

Describing the situation as a "shambles", Badenoch accused the government of floating the idea of increasing income tax rates only to "U-turn".

"This is the first Budget to unravel before it's even been delivered," she told the House of Commons.

"The chancellor's cluelessness, I'm afraid, is damaging the economy now."

Badenoch also highlighted comments from the chancellor in her Budget last year, when Reeves said: "I am keeping every single promise on tax that I made in our manifesto", adding that she would not extend the freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds because this "would hurt working people".

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The Tory leader asked the PM to confirm the government would not break this promise and continue the freeze on income tax thresholds.

But Sir Keir dodged the question, only saying the Budget would focus on cutting NHS waiting lists, debt and the cost-of-living.

"What we won't do is inflict austerity on the country as they did. What we won't do is inflict a borrowing spree like [Conservative prime minister] Liz Truss did," he added.

In response, Badenoch said it was "quite clear" the government was planning to freeze thresholds.

"If [the chancellor] breaks such a clear promise, how can the public trust a word that she says next week?"

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Reeves will deliver her Budget in the House of Commons on 26 November, and Badenoch will give the immediate response for the opposition.

In Labour's 2024 general election manifesto, the party promised it would "not increase taxes on working people, which is why we will not increase National Insurance, the basic, higher or additional rates of income tax, or VAT".

The freeze on income tax thresholds - the level people start paying tax or have to pay higher rates - was introduced under the Conservatives in April 2023 and is due to expire in 2028.

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While an extension of the freeze would not break the strict letter of the manifesto promise, it would mean some people's tax bills go up.

This is because more people would be dragged into a higher tax band, or have to pay tax on their income for the first time, if they get a pay rise.

Extending the freeze on income tax and National Insurance thresholds by two years could raise 8.3bn a year, according to the Institute for Fiscal Studies.

It would mean those on the lowest incomes are increasingly subject to tax, with the think tank estimating that someone on a minimum wage would be liable to pay income tax if they worked just 18 hours a week.

[BBC]

In the months running up to the Budget, ministers had repeatedly given strong indications that income tax rates would go up.

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As recently as last week, Reeves had told the BBC sticking to Labour's manifesto commitments would require "deep cuts in capital spending".

In October, Sir Keir had declined to repeat his previous promises not to increase key taxes during Prime Minister's Questions.

However, last Friday it emerged that Reeves had decided not to go ahead with the move, after estimates suggested a gap in the public finances was 10bn smaller than previously thought.

Ahead of every Budget, the chancellor submits their plans to the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), which then make forecasts on whether the government will spend more money than it raises and whether the economy will grow or shrink.

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A proposal to increase income tax rates by 2p, while cutting National Insurance by the same amount, was sent to the OBR as an option earlier this month to be costed, to help fill what was then a 30bn gap in the public finances.

Newer assessments from the OBR appear to have increased the projected strength of wages and tax receipts in the coming years and offset several billion pounds of that gap, taking it closer to 20bn.

Many Labour MPs were also nervous about breaking an election promise, which would have influenced the chancellor's decision.

[BBC]

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Lloyds Banking Group will form a new global markets division by merging its trading, financing, and corporate sales teams, according to a document seen by Bloomberg.

According to a memo to staff, the new global markets division will be jointly led by Rob Hale in London and Bill Mansfield in New York, starting from February 2026.

The combined teams will operate across the UK, North America, and Europe to enhance collaboration and operational efficiency.

In the memo, Lloyds corporate markets division CEO Carla Antunes da Silva said: Together, they bring deep expertise and will ensure stronger alignment across our key hubs in the UK, North America and Europe.

She added that combining the teams would help the lender with strengthening risk and control accountabilities across the business.

Bloomberg said that a spokesperson for Lloyds confirmed the contents of the memo.

As part of the changes, Nick Hughes, who has been with Lloyds for two decades and most recently led the capital markets division, will depart from the company.

In a separate announcement, Lloyds has appointed John Langley as CEO of corporate and institutional banking, succeeding John Winter, who will step down next year.

Langley is set to join in March from Wells Fargo, where he was most recently chief operating officer for CIB and head of Wells Fargo International.

Lloyds corporate and institutional banking (CIB) CEO John Winter said: John Langley is joining a great team at Lloyds with exciting growth plans for CIB in the coming years.

Im hugely proud of the progress CIB has made during the past four years and look forward to supporting John and the wider team as Vice Chair, CIB.

According to the Bloomberg report, the Lloyds global markets division restructure is the latest in a series of organisational changes under Lloyds CEO Charlie Nunn.

Nunn has been overseeing a multiyear overhaul of the banks technology and has focused on expanding into insurance, capital markets, and wealth management.

Lloyds has reported progress in these areas, with total income from the corporate markets division rising by 54% since 2021, reaching 984m ($1.29bn) in 2024.

"Lloyds to merge trading and underwriting teams  report" was originally created and published by Private Banker International, a GlobalData owned brand.




FOX CITIES, Wis. (WFRV)  A new group has made it its mission to preserve the natural beauty of Little Lake Butte des Morts.

Fox Cities community members held the inaugural meeting of the Little Lake Butte des Morts Lake Association on Tuesday night at the Appleton Yacht Club. There were about 100 people at the meeting and the group voted on their bylaws, elected their board members and other leaders, and approved their budget.

The creation of the lake association comes after the Fox-Wolf Watershed Alliance and a Green Bay-based environmental consulting firm conducted a recent Little Lake Butte des Morts water quality study. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and several municipalities provided funding for the water quality study.

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Those who live on the lake said that the study confirmed much of what they already knew about the lake. Theres an algae problem, theres other excessive vegetation growth, theres areas with significant shoreline erosion, and theres invasive species in the water that harm native species.

Freezing fog will cause slick travel into Wednesday morning

Community members said the most interesting part of the report was several recommendations on how to preserve the lake moving forward and mitigate some of the problems theyre currently seeing with the lake. One of those recommendations was creating a lake association.

Just being good stewards of our environment, this is going to be a generational effort, said Chris Rand, a community member from Menasha who helped to make the lake association a reality. The water didnt get this way overnight, and our kids will be dealing with it for many years to come.

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Lake association leaders tell Local 5 News that one of their first priorities is to survey their members to determine their needs and concerns regarding the lake. They are also working to establish community partners and learning how the grant process would work for the organization.

From there we start forming committees and hopefully we can address some weed control on the lake or something as silly as aerators for the property owners to get the water moving and some of that blue green algae broken up on their docks, said Danielle Rand from Menasha.

National Railroad Museums Festival of Trees expands into new Fox River Wing for 2025

Rand said theyd also look to organize/help with cleanup efforts and advocate for policy that will help preserve the lake.

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(This is) an effort to act as one voice for the multiple municipalities and organizations that impact the lake, said Chris Rand.

Lake association leaders say a $25 annual membership fee, coupled with funding from several municipalities, will help cover costs they incur throughout the year. They said that the goal is to have about 150 members.

For more information about the Little Lake Butte des Morts Lake Association, please click here.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFRV Local 5 - Green Bay, Appleton.
(Reuters) -Former U.S. Treasury Secretary Larry Summers has resigned from the OpenAI board, Axios reported on Wednesday, after President Donald Trump ordered the Justice Department to investigate his and other prominent Democrats' ties to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

OpenAI and representatives for Summers did not immediately respond to Reuters' requests for comment. Reuters could not immediately verify the report.

Summers, also a former president of Harvard University, said on Monday he would step back from all public commitments, adding that the move would was to allow him "to rebuild trust and repair relationships with the people closest to me."

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Harvard University will open a new probe into Summers' connections with Epstein, the University's newspaper reported on Tuesday.

The Republican-controlled U.S. Congress voted almost unanimously on Tuesday to force the release of DOJ files on Epstein, an outcome Trump had fought for months before ending his opposition.

Many Trump voters believe his administration has covered up Epstein's ties to powerful figures and obscured details surrounding his death, which was ruled a suicide, in a Manhattan jail in 2019.

(Reporting by Deborah Sophia in Bengaluru; Editing by Shilpi Majumdar)
Harvard University professor Larry Summers is taking leave while the school investigates his and others' ties with late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, a spokesperson confirmed.

The former US treasury secretary and onetime Harvard president will stop teaching and step back as director of the Mossavar-Rahmani Center for Business and Government at the Harvard Kennedy School.

A spokesperson told the BBC's US partner, CBS News, that Summers believes "it's in the best interest of the Center".

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Recently released emails indicate that Summers corresponded with Epstein until the day before the financier's 2019 arrest for the alleged sex trafficking of minors.

In a statement to The Harvard Crimson, the university said it was "conducting a review of information concerning individuals at Harvard included in the newly released Jeffrey Epstein documents".

The BBC has contacted Summers for comment on Harvard's new review.

On Tuesday, Summers addressed his communication with Epstein to students in a class he had been teaching at Harvard.

"Some of you will have seen my statement of regret, expressing my shame with respect to what I did in communication with Mr. Epstein. And that I've said that I'm going to step back from public activity," Summers told his students, according to a video recorded by a student.

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"I think it's very important to fulfill my teaching obligations. So with your permission, we're going to go forward and talk about the material in the class."

But on Wednesday night, Summers spokesperson Steven Goldberg said in the statement provided to CBS that "co-teachers will complete the remaining three class sessions of the courses he has been teaching with them this semester, and he is not scheduled to teach next semester".

The public fallout for Summers began after Congress released over 20,000 pages of documents from the so-called Epstein files last week, which included multiple emails between Epstein and Summers.

Time stamps from the emails showed the two communicated up until the day before Epstein's arrest - a decade after he pleaded guilty for soliciting prostitution from an underage girl.

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A married father of six, Summers messaged Epstein in November 2018 seemingly asking for romantic advice related to his interest in someone he said viewed him as an "economics mentor".

"Think for now I'm going nowhere with her except economics mentor," Summers wrote in one exchange where Epstein referred to himself as Summers' "wing man".

"Am I thanking her or being sorry re my being married. I think the former," he wrote in another email.

The emails also indicated that Summers and Epstein dined together frequently, with Epstein often trying to connect Summers to prominent global figures.

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No Epstein survivor has accused Summers of misconduct, and there is no publicly available evidence indicating that he was involved in any of Epstein's crimes.

Summers announced earlier Wednesday that he was leaving the board of OpenAI, and the artificial intelligence company said it respected Summers' decision to resign.

"We appreciate his many contributions and the perspective he brought to the Board," OpenAI said.

He joined the board of OpenAI, which makes ChatGPT, in 2023 - following a failed attempt to oust its chief executive, Sam Altman.

Summers said in a statement to the BBC about the move that he was "grateful for the opportunity to have served, excited about the potential of the company, and look forward to following their progress".

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After the emails were shared with the public, Summers said he took "full responsibility for my misguided decision to continue communicating with Mr Epstein".

He added that he wanted "to rebuild trust and repair relationships with the people closest to me".

Summers held senior posts under two Democratic presidents; serving as treasury secretary under Bill Clinton, and as director of the National Economic Council under Barack Obama. He led Harvard from 2001 to 2006 and remains a professor there.

The Center for American Progress, a liberal think tank in Washington where Summers was a senior fellow, also has confirmed that Summers is no longer affiliated with the organisation.

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Both chambers of Congress agreed on Tuesday to pass a measure to require the US justice department to release its files on Epstein, setting up the possible release of tens-of-thousands more documents.

President Donald Trump signed the bill on Wednesday, after reversing his position on the issue following pushback from his supporters.
CHICAGO  When a masked man grabbed Ernesto Diazs left shoulder and slammed him against a vehicle, he thought he was being robbed.

Diaz, 23, had been walking down Archer Avenue on the Southwest Side in late September, heading toward the CTA Orange Line for a trip downtown. Earbuds in, he was listening to music and said he barely registered the vehicle that pulled up near him. That was until he felt the pain in his shoulder.

Diaz felt confused and disoriented. He couldnt hear because Higher Power by Coldplay was still playing in his ears. But when he craned his neck, and saw more than half a dozen federal agents surrounding him, he understood what was happening.

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Im Hispanic and Im dark (skinned), so thats why they picked me up, Diaz, a U.S. citizen, said. It feels scary because Im wearing a target  you know, pick me up because Im this color. It shouldnt be like that.

Diaz is one of the five U.S. citizens and green card holders the Tribune spoke to who has either been questioned or detained by federal immigration agents during Trumps Operation Midway Blitz for seemingly no other reason than being Latino, an experience they said was equal parts terrifying and frustrating.

Its impossible to say just how many Chicagoans have experienced what experts say constitutes racial profiling since the immigration crackdown began. The Department of Homeland Security has repeatedly denied that it targets people based on race and said its going after the worst of the worst. But dozens of reports and videos have circulated in the past couple months  many affecting those working at manual labor jobs.

Among them, a landscaper in Evanston was handcuffed until he proved hes an American citizen. House painters and laborers in the northwest suburbs were asked to show proof of citizenship. A woman finishing her shift at a downtown bar zip-tied and questioned for an hour because she doesnt look like her last name.

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Under Border Patrol Cmdr. Gregory Bovino, agents focus has largely been on Latinos, but the government has also stereotyped working people from other backgrounds without papers, including Polish and Ukrainian handymen in ethnic areas along the citys bungalow belt and an Illinois Department of Transportation employee, who is Indian, questioned if hes aware of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani at a resurfacing project in Park Ridge.

Those confrontations dont include scores of arrests of U.S. citizens who were protesting federal officials.

Even when the mass deportation campaign winds down, which sources say could be soon, experts said the effects of discriminatory practices leave a permanent stain: potential lawsuits, diminished trust in the federal government and lasting trauma for the citys large immigrant and Latino populations.

From a societal perspective, it fundamentally creates a world where citizens and people with documented status are treated differently because of the way that they look, because of their race, their ethnicity, or where they work and the communities they work in, said Michelle Teresa Garcia, deputy legal director of the ACLU of Illinois.

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That, she said, is fundamentally unconstitutional under the Fourth Amendment, under the equal protection clause, and it is a blight on our societal sense of fairness and community.

Officials with the Department of Homeland Security did not respond to multiple requests for comment, which included a detailed list of each encounter detailed in this report. Last month, DHS said in a statement that allegations that their officers engage in racial profiling are disgusting, reckless and categorically FALSE.

What makes someone a target for immigration enforcement is if they are illegally in the U.S.  NOT their skin color, race, or ethnicity, the statement said. Under the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution, DHS law enforcement uses reasonable suspicion to make arrests. There are no indiscriminate stops being made. The Supreme Court recently vindicated us on this question. DHS enforces federal immigration law without fear, favor, or prejudice.

Theyre not even treating me like a human being

While he was up against the vehicle, Diaz said one of the agents ripped out his earbuds and handcuffed him. He said the masked agents didnt tell him their names or badge numbers. He worried that they may not even be real agents.

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They asked him a series of questions  is he a citizen, does he have a green card, is he here illegally, where was he born, Diaz recalled. He told agents they could check his ID and Social Security card that hes carried in his wallet since hearing about immigration raids in Los Angeles earlier this year.

While an agent inspected the card, Diaz said he tried to move his sore right arm that was pinned behind his back.

And one of the agents says, Dont move. Dont try to run. And I told him, Im not trying to run. Im just getting comfortable, Diaz said. Hes like, if you move again, Im gonna tase you. And he takes out his taser, and points it at my ribs.

After about five minutes, he said an agent put the cards back in his wallet and threw it on the ground. They then walked to their vehicle and drove away, he said.

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I felt like a piece of trash, Diaz said. Theyre not even treating me like a human being. Theyre treating me like Im some piece of plastic.

Another man, a Little Village resident in his early 20s, also said he was stopped last month by federal agents while walking with his father to the neighborhoods La Chiquita grocery store. They wanted to buy carne asada and beans for lunch with their family.

The son is a U.S. citizen. The father is not. But federal agents arrested both men and took them to the ICE facility in west suburban Broadview.

The son was released later but said he remembers trying to reason with agents that his younger brother has epilepsy and needs their father. He requested anonymity for fear that his father would be retaliated against in ICE detention, where he is currently being held out of state.

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I told them Im a U.S. citizen, I know my rights, he said. All they said was, I dont (expletive) care.

Racial profiling is unconstitutional

Garcia, of the ACLU, said the number of citizens reportedly detained throughout Operation Midway Blitz demonstrates that the government isnt simply making targeted arrests, as it often claims.

The fact they are sweeping up U.S. citizens and people with documented status is further proof the agenda is not about addressing crime and violence, but rather, it is about creating a society where people of color are living in fear, Garcia said.

In September, the conservative majority on the Supreme Court lifted a restraining order from a judge who found that roving patrols were conducting indiscriminate stops in and around Los Angeles. The order had barred immigration agents from stopping people solely based on their race, language, job or location, The Associated Press reported.

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The majority did not explain its reasoning, as is typical on the courts emergency docket. But Justice Brett Kavanaugh said the lower court judge had gone too far in restricting how federal immigration agents can carry out brief stops for questioning, the AP said.

Jasmine Gonzales Rose, a professor at Boston University School of Law who teaches courses on Latinos and the law, said that racial profiling remains unconstitutional because it violates the Fourth Amendments protection against unlawful seizures and the 14th Amendments equal protection guarantee. It also, she said, really diminishes the freedom of all people.

Its absolutely heartbreaking that families are being torn apart and U.S. citizens and noncitizens alike are being told that theyre not safe to go about their daily business without government intrusion into their lives, she said.

She also said the government targeting Latinos and treating them as others  or that they arent truly a part of the country  is ironic because theres a long history of Latinos living in the Americas before Europeans arrived. Traits of a so-called Mexican appearance are features often associated with indigeneity to the Americas, she said.

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Its very painful for people to be questioned whether theyre a full citizen based upon their appearance, their language, Rose said.

Gov. JB Pritzker said in a statement that hes appalled citizens are being harassed and detained.

These practices are fundamentally un-American and do nothing to make our community safer, he said. Our neighbors shouldnt live in fear of being stopped and questioned based on the color of their skin.

The governor also sharply criticized a reported stop in Park Ridge on Nov. 7. His office said three masked agents questioned the immigration status of an IDOT employee, who is Indian and a U.S. citizen, working at the Busse Highway resurfacing project. The agents allegedly asked the employee whether he had traveled to New York and if he was aware of New York City Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani, who is also Indian, his office said.

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Our state employees should be able to go to work and do their jobs without masked agents targeting them for no legitimate reason, the governor said.

Green card holder detained for five hours

Lawful permanent residents, or noncitizens who are authorized to live in the country, have also been caught up in the arrests.

Antonio Enriquez, 53, said he was walking to a Melrose Park store last month when federal agents got out of unmarked vehicles and demanded to see his documents. He told the agents they were a few blocks away at his home, pleading Vamos a mi casa. Lets go to my house.

But the agents ignored him, Enriquez said. A video taken at the scene shows at least three agents pushing Enriquez to the ground and handcuffing him after he tries to pull his arm out of an agents grasp. An officer tells a bystander recording that were not trying to hurt anybody, but if you resist, thats what happens.

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They took Enriquez to the ICE facility. His daughter, Alexis Gomez, said he was held for six hours until she brought a copy of his green card and Social Security card. She feared that ICE wouldnt let him go even though hes in the country legally.

When he was finally able to leave, he smiled and rushed out of the gated facility to hug his daughters.

Agents also last month arrested Omar Huerta Cisneros, a green card holder who has lived in the U.S. since he was a child, while he was on his way to a grocery store in the Chicago Lawn neighborhood. A witness said they zip-tied his hands and drove away in a red minivan.

It marked the start of a desperate 10-day search by Huertas family. The 54-year-old has schizophrenia, a mental illness that often leaves him disoriented and unable to independently care for himself when he isnt medicated.

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Huertas family only learned that he had been arrested Oct. 15 because of a video Edgar Manzo, who was shopping with his wife at the time, posted to Facebook.

He seemed a little confused but just followed orders, Manzo said. He didnt resist at all.

Huertas sister-in-law, Aracely Favela, said the family called and emailed every office within DHS that they could think of, conveying that Huerta urgently needs his medication. But most of the calls went unanswered, she said. And if someone did pick up, they told her they didnt know where he was.

In the meantime, the family combed WhatsApp groups, Facebook posts and drove around the neighborhood looking for Huerta. He doesnt own a cellphone and they feared he wouldnt know how to ask for help.

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He had disappeared, Favela said. They disappeared him despite him being here legally.

It took 10 days for the family to find Huerta wandering the streets of Franklin Park, disoriented, dirty and hungry. Based on what Huerta could recall, the family believes agents released him without a phone call or transportation home.

Huertas family asked that he not be interviewed for the story because of his condition.

His story, thankfully, had a happy ending, but I cant imagine how many dont, Favela said. This could have been really bad for Omar and our family.

Taking a psychological toll

Aside from legal consequences, the administrations strategies are also exacting a psychological toll on communities that already have frayed relationships with the government from great trauma and harm, NAMI Chicago CEO Matt Davison said.

They have a very real and understandable reason to be distrustful already, Davison said. (It) has taken decades to kind of build up that trust, and its being absolutely destroyed by, I can only characterize it as haphazard nonsense fear tactics.

Maria Greeley said she has felt the need to lay low after she was grabbed by three federal agents who zip-tied her hands behind her back in October. She had just finished a double shift at the Beach Bar on Ohio Street.

The agents questioned her for an hour and told her she doesnt look like a Greeley before letting her go, she previously relayed to the Tribune.

Weeks later, Greeley has channeled some of her energy into packing whistles with volunteers and advocating for political change in coming elections.

Im glad that they wasted that hour on me and it gave an opportunity for somebody else to get home safe, she said.

However, she said the encounter has been very stressful for her and her family. She gets anxious seeing tinted windows, SUVs that have Florida license plates or different out of state license plates.

I do second guess, Greeley said. I try not to be on the streets since it happened.

Diaz, the man detained in Archer Heights, also finds himself looking over his shoulder. Sometimes, he said, he runs through worst-case scenarios in his mind. Like what happens if hes taken to the Broadview facility or what if he gets deported.

He said he understands agents have a job to do, but he wants them to treat people with more respect.

It shouldnt be OK for us to live in fear, he said. No matter your color or your race you shouldnt have to live in fear.
Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) raged at cluster of her own caucus after efforts to discipline a Democrat with ties to Jeffrey Epstein were thwarted in the House on Tuesday night.

The ultra-conservative House Freedom Caucus moved to censure Del. Stacey Plaskett (D-V.I.) and remove her from the House Intelligence Committee after documents revealed Plaskett had been texting Epstein during 2019 testimony with President Donald Trumps former fixer, Michael Cohen.

Politics: White House Issues Statement On Trumps Quiet, Piggy And Its So On-Brand

But the bid failed by flimsy margins, as three Republicans joined Democrats to vote no while another three registered as present, resulting in a 209-214-3 split.

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Afterwards, an incensed Boebert shouted down a group of her GOP colleagues, wagging her finger and screaming, This is why America hates us, words the Colorado congresswoman directly confirmed to The Wall Street Journals Olivia Beavers.

Rep. Lauren Boebert, here on Nov. 18 after the House vote on the "Epstein Files Transparency Act," screamed at fellow Republicans who voted against a measure to discipline a Democrat with ties to Jeffrey Epstein. DANIEL HEUER via Getty Images

Proof of Plasketts close connection to Epstein comes as Congress reached a rare bipartisan consensus demanding the Justice Department release more information about its investigation into the late sex offender.

Plaskett is a nonvoting representative for the U.S. Virgin Islands, where Epstein wielded significant influence as a political donor and the owner of his infamous private island, Little St. James.

Politics: Scott Jennings Stuns CNN Panel With Claim About Trump, Epstein: 'We Would Already Know'

The disgraced financier and his relationship with Trump were at the core of another clash between Boebert and Republican leadership this month. She was one of the four members of the GOP who endorsed a discharge petition that forced a vote on ordering the DOJ to release the Epstein files.

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Approved by both chambers, the bill will now head to the presidents desk.

Related...

Read the original on HuffPost
(Photo by simpson33 via iStock / Getty Images Plus)

Two alleged whistleblowers are suing Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Co. and its affiliates for alleged racketeering, wrongful termination and concealment of information from state regulators.

The lawsuit alleges Farm Bureau officials repeatedly concealed from regulators in Iowa and other states instances of fraudulent activity committed by company agents or employees. The defendants conduct in the matter amounts to racketeering, obstruction of justice, and mail fraud or wire fraud, the lawsuit claims.

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The lawsuit was filed by James Newton and Brent Meskimen, former police officers who later became special investigators for Farm Bureau. They are suing Farm Bureau Property & Casualty Insurance Co., FBL Financial Group, Farm Bureau Financial Services, and the West Des Moines law firm of Wickham & Geadelmann in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Iowa. Also named as defendants in the case are several Farm Bureau executives and attorneys.

The lawsuit claims Farm Bureau officials engaged in a scheme to defraud insurance policyholders, insurance and other governmental regulatory authorities, and other participants in the insurance industry who are complying with their mandatory duty of reporting fraud and other fraudulent or other illegal acts.

It also claims the defendants violated Iowas law on the wrongful discharge of employees in violation of public policy. That law prohibits the termination of employees for refusing to participate in illegal conduct or for acting as whistleblowers by reporting or objecting to illegal conduct.

The defendants in the case have yet to file a response to the lawsuit. Calls to Farm Bureau, Farm Bureau Financial Services and the law firm of Wickham & Geadelmann were not immediately returned Wednesday.

Break-in at policyholders residence

The lawsuit claims that as far back as 2011, Farm Bureau officials failed to report to state regulators evidence of fraudulent activity within the company, but the straw that broke the camels back was an insurance adjusters alleged break-in on a policyholders property.

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According to the lawsuit, a residential fire occurred at the policyholders Nebraska residence on May 5, 2023, and the policyholder immediately filed a claim for losses.

In the course of investigating the claim, Farm Bureaus Special Investigation Unit learned that an adjuster working for the company had used a credit card to pick the lock of the policyholders garage near the scene of the fire to determine whether it contained items the insured claimed as being lost in the fire, the lawsuit alleges.

Newton and Meskimen allegedly met with Farm Bureaus general counsel, Wickham, and advised him Farm Bureau had an obligation to inform the policyholder of the illegal access to their garage.

According to the lawsuit, the companys assistant general counsel, Karl Olson, eventually agreed to allow Meskimen and Newton to meet with the policyholder and inform them of the illegal garage entry by the adjuster, but barred Meskimen and Newton from disclosing that two third-party vendors hired to investigate the claim had also been inside the garage.

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The lawsuit claims Olson and Property Casualty Claims Vice President Anthony Kimmi then agreed that all poisonous documentation pertaining to the illegal entry, including photographs, should be placed in a separate file using a canceled insurance policy associated with a Minnesota policyholder who had no association at all with Nebraska fire.

After the new file was created for information about the garage, efforts were made to lock down the file to ensure limited access to its contents, and Kimmi directed the staff to suppress all printout capabilities from the file, the lawsuit alleges.

On June 9, 2023, Newton and Meskimen allegedly met with Wickham, the general counsel, at the Farm Bureau home office in West Des Moines and reported that they could no longer in good conscience be associated with this file, the lawsuit claims, telling Wickham it was wrong ethically and that it violated state statutes, claims best practices, Farm Bureau core values, doing whats right, and that it could very well be criminal and could potentially violate privacy rights.

According to the lawsuit, Wickham responded by saying hed speak to Farm Bureau leadership to make sure this never happens again, to which Meskimen allegedly said the directive to create the file came straight from General Counsel Wickhams own assistant general counsel, Olson.

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After Newton, Meskimen and the Special Investigations Unit concluded fraud had been committed by the company, the findings were allegedly relayed to Paul Swinton, a vice president and assistant general counsel of property and casualty at FBL Financial Group, according to the lawsuit.

The lawsuit claims Swinton refused to forward the significant majority of the findings to regulators in Iowa and Nebraska for their review and investigation, despite mandatory-reporting requirements.

Lawsuit: State regulators kept in the dark

According to the lawsuit, the 2023 incident was not the first time Swinton and Newton clashed over information that wasnt being shared with state regulators.

Newton and Meskimen were often and continually directed not to make mandatory referrals to the appropriate Departments of Insurance for review and investigation by the appropriate insurance regulators in states where FBL Financial Group was operating and conducting business, including Kansas, Iowa, Nebraska, Utah, Arizona and New Mexico, the lawsuit alleges.

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Among the alleged examples cited in the lawsuit:

 Forged signatures: In the spring of 2023, a Farm Bureau agent in Kansas admitted he had forged the signatures of approximately 50 of his policyholders, without their permission, over a period of three to four years, and that the forms contained false and misleading information to support of the clients insurance policy applications. Farm Bureau refused to allow Newton and/or Meskimen to submit this admitted fraudulent conduct to the Kansas Department of Insurance, the lawsuit alleges, despite a state law requiring such reporting.

 Two fired agents: In 2022, Swinton refused to share information with regulators about two fired Farm Bureau agents. In one of the two cases, a Kansas agent admitted to having forged at least 900 various documents with clients signatures, allegedly with the clients consent, and another 100 documents without the clients consent. Swinton allegedly refused to share information with regulators about the two firings. The lawsuit claims that after Newton wrote in an annual report that he had concerns with such matters going unreported, Wickham was furious and instructed him to never put anything in writing like that again.

 Fraudulent claim: In 2023, after a Farm Bureau agent was fired for filing a fraudulent claim on his own home in Utah, Swinton or others within the company refused to allow Newton and Meskimen to submit information on the agents conduct to the Utah Department of Insurance, despite a state law requiring such a referral.

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 Fathers altered policy: In 2018, the companys Special Investigations Unit determined an Iowa agent had altered a customers policy after a fire so that the policy included a Ford Mustang that was consumed in the blaze. The customer was the agents father and a retired Farm Bureau agent. The lawsuit claims Swinton barred the unit from referring the incident to the Iowa Department of Insurance.

Newton and Meskimen are fired

The lawsuit alleges that while the unreported instances of fraudulent activity date back to 2011, it was the May 2023 garage break-in that the tipping point for Newton and Meskimen.

The lawsuit alleges that on Aug. 30, 2023, Newton had an in-person meeting with Wickham and insisted the information related to that case needed to be referred to the Nebraska Department of Insurance. Wickham responded by telling Newton that if he made that referral his career would be over, the lawsuit claims.

On Nov. 9, 2023, Newton and Meskimen allegedly met with Karen Rieck, the vice president of human resources for Farm Bureau Financial Services, and voiced their concerns about the lack of referrals to state regulators.

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A week later, Newton received a phone call from Wickham and Rieck, in which Wickham said Newton had essentially resigned by refusing to report directly to Swinton. The lawsuit alleges Newton indicated he had no problem reporting to Swinton but that if Swinton was not going to make the mandatory referrals related to fraud, he would do so himself.

As a result, Newton was fired, the lawsuit claims. Meskimen was allegedly fired five days later after telling his superiors that he, too, would make such referrals if they were required by law.

The lawsuit claims that shortly before the two men were fired they each were given positive performance reviews, with Newton described by his superiors as one of the most well-respected employees in the organization and Meskimen described as a trusted leader whose integrity is beyond reproach.

In addition to Swinton, Olson, Kimmi and Wickham, the named defendants in the lawsuit include Daniel Pitcher, chief executive officer of FBL Financial Group and Farm Bureau Financial Services, and Ronald Mead Jr., the chief operating officer for property casualty of FBL Financial Group and Farm Bureau Financial Services.

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VILNIUS, Lithuania (AP)  The Lithuanian government decided Wednesday to reopen the country's two border crossings with Belarus, weeks after they were closed following disruptions at the capital's airport caused by balloons used to smuggle cigarettes across the frontier.

The government in Vilnius said in late October it would keep the crossings closed for a month, with some exemptions. Officials in Lithuania view the balloon disruption as a deliberate act by Russia-allied Belarus.

Lithuania's Cabinet decided to reopen the crossings at Medininkai and Salcininkai on Thursday. Neighboring Poland this week reopened two crossings with Belarus.

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The decision is expected to ease the return of Lithuanian trucks that were stranded in Belarus. Authorities in Minsk refused to open a corridor exclusively to evacuate the trucks, demanding that Lithuania reopen the border fully. Delegations of the countries' customs officials met on Tuesday for technical negotiations.

Last week, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko said up to 1,200 vehicles were stranded in his country and threatened to seize them if Lithuania failed to reopen the border. He has denounced the border closure as a mad scam and part of a hybrid war against his country.

Lithuania is a NATO and European Union member on the Western military alliances eastern flank, and also borders Russias Kaliningrad exclave.

Lithuania warned that the border could be shut again if balloons and drones reappear.

If the situation gets worse again, we reserve the right to close the borders at any time, Prime Minister Inga Ruginiene said ahead of Wednesday's decision, adding that it was being taken after several relatively quiet weeks without major airspace violations and flight disruptions.
Students have been evacuated and law enforcement is at Sixth Ward Middle School after threats against the staff.

The Lafourche Parish Sheriffs Office is investigating a threat against Sixth Ward Middle School five days after the Sheriff Craig Webre sent out a warning to the public to stop threatening staff and elected officials. The threats had to do with the handling of one student being expelled after she and others lashed out over AI-generated nude photos of students and staff being circulated around the school.

As a precaution, students have been evacuated to a safe area, a release from the Sheriffs Office said. Please do not attempt to call or visit the school.

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The incident became public Nov. 5 after attorneys for the expelled teens family chastised the officials for their decision to expel her. Shortly thereafter, investigators released additional information about video footage of the girl and two other boys attacking another on the bus.

Louisiana school officials receive threats over Sixth Ward expulsion decision

This article originally appeared on Daily Comet: Threats spark lockdown at Louisiana school tied to AI nude photo incident
Plant life of an inland wetland in Cameron Parish, Louisiana. (Elise Plunk/Louisiana Illuminator)

The Environmental Protection Agency wants to take away federal protections for millions of acres of wetlands in Louisiana and the rest of the country, allowing them to be polluted or developed without the need for permits under a new set of proposed regulations the agency unveiled Monday.

The EPAs long-awaited proposed rules would change what counts as federally protected waters in the United States. They suggest more rollbacks of regulations that could lead to development in Louisiana and across the country in areas that have long been shielded.

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The draft regulations cover what are called the Waters of the United States, or WOTUS. They include new definitions for what counts as a wetland that falls under the protection of the Clean Water Act.

In short, the proposed updates require wetlands to touch permanent bodies of water  such as lakes, rivers or streams  and have visible surface water for at least part of the year in order for federal safeguards to apply.

Most at risk in Louisiana are the non-coastal, inland swamps that make up about 59% of the states wetlands area, according to an analysis from the Environmental Law Institute.

Environmental advocates argue the rules would put important ecosystems, flood control measures and pollution management at risk, while legal experts worry the definitions will only add more confusion to an already complex topic.

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The public will have 45 days to submit a comment on the proposed WOTUS rules once they are officially published in the Federal Register on Thursday. The EPA will then consider whether any comment warrants revisions in the proposed regulations, which would be incorporated into the final version. The Trump administration has not laid out a timeline for putting the new rules into effect.

I think its a big alarm for pretty much wherever you are, that federal oversight over wetlands is drastically limited, and there is not a backup plan to deal with this, said Haley Gentry, assistant director of the Tulane Institute on Water Resources Law and Policy.

Its going to create a lot of  problems for states and local communities going forward who have relied on federal oversight and the mitigation for wetlands and development, she added. There will be confusion.

The removal of certain federal wetlands protections follows the 2023 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Sackett v. EPA, which pared back federal authority to enforce the Clean Water Act. An Idaho couple successfully challenged the agency when it stopped them from developing their property, with justices interpreting the definition of Waters of the United States to mean only those relatively permanent, standing or continuously flowing.

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The proposed rule raises questions in Louisiana as to whether future construction could disqualify even more wetlands from Clean Water Act protection, said Matt Rota, senior policy director for Healthy Gulf, a Louisiana-based environmental advocacy group.

Central to whether or not a wetland is protected is whether or not it touches a lake, river or bayou on which a boat can navigate.

In Louisiana, that can get a little squishy, Rota said.

The Louisiana Legislature passed a law earlier this year that defines wetlands separated from surface water connections by manmade levees as fastlands, excluding them from state protections. With the newly proposed federal WOTUS definitions following the same deregulatory lines as Louisiana, certain wetlands here would no longer have any safeguards against development, advocates say.

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Plus, Louisiana now allows future construction of levees and berms to disqualify wetlands from state protection. Even if an area has coverage under the law today, it could lose it if a levee is built around it in the future, Rota said.

State Sen.Big Mike Fesi, R-Houma, who authored the legislation, said this is an area in which revisions to the proposed WOTUS rule are necessary.

In public comment, they can go through all of those and get some good answers for stuff like that, said Fesi. I dont want to go fill up a swamp thats full of cypress trees.

Fesi added that he is excited about the proposed rules and believes current building codes are adequate to address concerns over building in flood-prone areas.

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I think theres been a lot of rules put in place that protects against some of the problems with flooding, he said. Some of it just went too far, and so theyre cutting back.

Some Louisiana wetlands will still have protections in place against development. For example, any area that touches the navigable waters of the Gulf of Mexico falls under the Clean Water Act, and the states coastal zone construction restrictions protect other areas.

More at risk are the states inland wetlands, which have no added barriers to development without the Clean Water Act. These areas would need to meet the federal definition of having surface water at least during the wet season as well as continually touch a waterway like a lake, river, stream or bayou.

Hopefully this will not have a huge impact on coastal restoration activities and protecting our coastal wetlands, Rota said. But our coastal wetlands are only as healthy as our internal wetlands and internal waterways that are feeding them.

Whenever you remove some of these more upland wetlands or ephemeral streams that supply either fresh water, nutrients  it could still have an impact, he added.
French President Emmanuel Macron on Wednesday accused urban middle class drug users of fuelling a narcotics-driven crime wave that has caused alarm nationwide, and a wave of murders in the second city of Marseille.

The killing last week in Marseille of the younger brother of anti-drug activist Amine Kessaci amplified concern over the soaring death toll. Authorities say the murder was linked to the campaigner's activism.

Kessaci, 22, vowed to continue denouncing the scourge of narcotics crime even after the killing of his younger sibling, writing in an op-ed in the Le Monde daily: "No, I won't be quiet."

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Macron told a cabinet meeting "it is sometimes bourgeois people in city centres who finance drug traffickers," according to government spokeswoman Maud Bregeon said, stressing she was quoting directly the head of state's words.

"We cannot deplore the deaths on the one hand and continue to consume drugs in the evenings after work on the other," she added.

- 'Fight to death' -

Kessaci, 22, threw himself into campaigning after his half-brother was murdered in a drug-trafficking feud in 2020.

His younger brother Mehdi, 20, was killed on last Thursday when a gunman shot him dead in his parked car.

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The man had no criminal record and wanted to be a police officer. Interior Minister Laurent Nunez on Tuesday called the crime a "turning point".

"I will speak of the violence of drug trafficking. Its grip. I will speak of the cowardice of those who order the crimes," Kessaci wrote in Le Monde.

"I will speak of the shortcomings of the state, the flaws of the republic, the abandoned territories, and the obliterated populations," he added.

"Faced with such an enemy, the state must recognise what is happening and understand that a fight to the death is underway," he added.

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The piece was published the day after Mehdi Kessaci's funeral in ceremony marked by a heavy police presence at the mosque and cemetery.

Amine Kessaci, who had been threatened for months, was wearing a bulletproof vest to ensure his own safety, a police source told AFP, asking not to be named.

Kessaci has been living away from Marseille under police protection but lamented in the piece for Le Monde that this security had not been extended to other members of his family.

Marseille has been struggling to battle drug crime, with more than a dozen people killed since the start of the year in turf wars and other disputes linked to cocaine and cannabis dealing.

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Some of those killed had no link the drugs world and are believed to have been caught in the crossfire.

Nunez and Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin are due in Marseille on Thursday. Macron at a crisis meeting at the Elysee on Wednesday urged France to step up its actions and use the same approach it has used against "terrorism".

"Faced with such an enemy, the state must grasp the gravity of the situation," Kessaci, a law student and Greens party member wrote.

"It's time to take action, for instance by bringing public services back to neighbourhoods, combating school failure that provides traffickers with a submissive workforce, equipping investigators and police forces with the resources they need, and genuinely supporting the families of victims of drug trafficking," he said.

bur-ah-sjw/sw
Investing.com -- Russian oil company Lukoil said Wednesday it reserves the right to seek judicial protection of its rights and legitimate interests in Bulgaria after an external manager was appointed to run its assets in the country.

"Lukoil is taking all necessary steps to complete the sale of the refinery, the filling station network and other assets in Bulgaria to a new owner and expects that the activities of the external administrator will not impede this process," the company said in a statement.

The statement comes after Bulgarias government last week appointed a special manager to oversee the operation of Lukoils Burgas refinery beyond November 21, when U.S. sanctions are due to come into effect. The special manager will also have the authority to sell the company if necessary. Multiple global oil companies, including U.S. oil giants Exxon and Chevron, have expressed interest in acquiring the assets,

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In 2022, roughly two years after Donald Trump lost his reelection bid, the Republican apparently thought itd be a good idea to sue CNN for $475 million, alleging that the news network had defamed him and taken actions aimed at defeating him politically. My MS NOW colleague Hayes Brown took a closer look at the specific claims raised by Trumps lawyers and concluded, All told, this is less a case of defamation and more a case of crying they were mean to me.

A lower court agreed and rejected the case in 2023. As my MS NOW colleague Jordan Rubin reported, an appellate court came to the same conclusion this week.

President Donald Trump lost his bid to revive his defamation lawsuit against CNN for the networks use of the phrase Big Lie, regarding his claims about the 2020 election he lost to Joe Biden. The unanimous ruling came from a three-judge appellate panel on Tuesday, with two of the judges being Trump appointees.

The cases failure didnt come as much of a surprise; it was a frivolous case that few saw as credible.

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But that doesnt mean the outcome is irrelevant.

What struck me as notable  aside from the fact that even Trump-appointed judges agreed his case obviously lacked merit  is the degree to which the outcome of the CNN case dovetails with similar rulings in similar cases.

The Trump campaigns 2020 case against CNN failed. Trumps 2021 case against The New York Times failed. Trumps 2023 case against Bob Woodward failed. The Trump campaigns case against The Washington Post failed. Trumps so-called class action lawsuit against social media giants also failed. (In September, Trump filed a $15 billion civil suit against the New York Times, which was thrown out four days later, not because it lacked merit, but because a federal judge found that the presidents lawyers court filing was simply too ridiculous.)

Americans have never had a president who sued independent news organizations or individual journalists for publishing reports the White House disapproved of  until now.

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But lets not miss the forest for the trees. When the Republican filed a dubious case against ABC News, the network and its corporate parent agreed to a $16 million settlement. When he filed an even weaker case against CBS News, Paramount also struck a $16 million deal.

In the weeks and months that followed, Trump has repeatedly pointed to these controversial settlement agreements as evidence of his targets guilt, even as those networks denied any wrongdoing.

Meanwhile, news organizations that stood up for themselves and pushed back against the ridiculous attempts at intimidation have prevailed.

Let this be a lesson to the larger political world: The only way to lose in a fight against Trump is to pursue a course rooted in appeasement. Its true when it comes to law firms; its true when it comes to higher education; and its true in his court fights against news organizations.

This post updates our related earlier coverage.

This article was originally published on MSNBC.com
(Image via Office of Maine Secretary of State)

Mainers are now able to renew REAL IDs online instead of having to visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles.

If you are planning to travel by plane over the winter holidays and need to renew your REAL ID or obtain one for the first time, we urge you not to wait  go online or visit your local BMV soon, said Cathie Curtis, deputy secretary of the state for the Bureau of Motor Vehicles. According to the department, more than 70,000 REAL ID drivers licenses are due for renewal in the next year.

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Since the federal government began requiring travelers to present a REAL ID or passport to fly commercially and enter certain federal buildings, Maine BMV offices have seen record-breaking number of customers, Curtis said.

As of Nov. 1, more than 430,000 Mainers had a REAL ID, an increase of 131,000 this year. A REAL ID issued by the State of Maine bears a gold outline of the state with a star in the upper right-hand corner of the card.

Secretary of State Shenna Bellows said the online portal will reduce BMV traffic helping to open up more availability for in-person services for those who need them and reducing wait times at branches.

Residents using online renewal cannot change any information on their current license or ID card and will need their social security number and a valid credit card to complete the transaction in the online portal.

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Initiated as a security measure in the wake of 9/11, REAL IDs allow for some information sharing between states. Before their implementation, critics raised concern about personal privacy and potential for data breaches.

Having a REAL ID is optional and a standard Maine ID is valid for all in-state purposes.

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Most Americans believe President Trump was aware of the sexual abuse committed by the late convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to a new survey.

The Morning Consult poll, conducted over the weekend, shows 60 percent of all voters say Trump knew about the sexual abuse  including 38 percent who believe Trump also participated in the scheme and 22 percent who say the president did not participate.

Only 15 percent think Trump did not know about the abuse. Nearly a quarter of respondents, at 24 percent, say they arent sure or have no opinion on the matter.

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There is an expected partisan divide in responses, but even Republicans are more likely to believe Trump knew about Epsteins behavior than did not, the survey shows.

Among GOP voters surveyed, 42 percent believe Trump was aware of the sexual abuse, compared to 29 percent who say he was not. That plurality of Republicans includes 28 percent who think the president was aware, but did not engage, in the abuse, and 14 percent who believe Trump participated in the scheme.

Nearly two-thirds of Democrats, at 64 percent, believe Trump knew about and participated in the sexual abuse, while an additional 16 percent say Trump was aware but didnt take part in the illicit conduct. Under five percent of Democrats surveyed believe Trump didnt know about Epsteins sexual abuse.

Independent voters mirror the larger electorate, with 60 percent thinking Trump knew about the abuse, including 37 percent who believe he also participated and 23 percent who think he did not. Only 11 percent believe the president was unaware of the abuse.

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The president has denied knowledge of Epsteins crimes, including allegations of sex trafficking involving underage girls, and he has called the push from victims to release files related to the case a hoax perpetrated by Democrats.

Trump has acknowledged that he once ran in similar high-powered circles as the disgraced financier, but he said he broke ties with Epstein years before he died in 2019.

Earlier this year, Trump alleged Epstein stole the late Virginia Giuffre and other workers from his Mar-a-Lago resort in Florida, leading the president to kick Epstein out of the club. Giuffre, who confirmed she worked at Mar-a-Lago when she was 16 years old in 2000, was one of Epsteins most vocal accusers, and she died by suicide earlier this year.

The fact remains that President Trump kicked Jeffrey Epstein out of his club decades ago for being a creep to his female employees, including Giuffre, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said in a statement last week.

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She noted Giuffre repeatedly said President Trump was not involved in any wrongdoing whatsoever and couldnt have been friendlier to her in their limited interactions.

The survey was conducted Nov. 14-16 among 2,201 registered voters and has a margin of error of 2 percentage points.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A man led state troopers on Interstate 75 before a chase ended in a serious crash on Saturday.

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An Ohio State Highway Patrol (OSHP) trooper was monitoring traffic on Saturday, Nov. 15, near West Chester Township.

The trooper spotted a 2021 Dodge Durango driving at high speeds on I-75 northbound, according to our news partner WCPO in Cincinnati.

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The driver has been identified as Derrick Banks.

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OSHP said the suspect used all four lanes of I-75 during the chase and both shoulders.

An initial report said that Banks briefly exited the highway in Middletown but got back on I-75. From there, the vehicle exited in Franklin and went into Franklin Community Park on State Route 123.

A trooper conducted a PIT maneuver. After that, the Dodge hit a Middletown police cruiser head-on, OSHP told WCPO.

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Banks went west on State Route 123 and South Main Street. He failed to stop at a stop sign and hit a 2006 Honda Odyssey. Banks tried to run from the crash scene, but troopers caught him, according to OSHP.

As previously reported by News Center 7, medics transported the vans driver to an area hospital with serious injuries.

OSHP said Tuesday that the Honda driver was flown to Miami Valley Hospital with serious, life-threatening injuries. A Honda passenger suffered minor injuries.

An initial investigation showed that the Dodge was stolen from Hamilton County. Troopers told WCPO that they learned someone had brandished a gun at law enforcement in Hamilton County.

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Online jail records indicated that Banks is in the Warren County Jail.

He has been charged with felonious assault of a police officer, receiving stolen property, and failure to comply with the order or signal of a police officer.

OSHP told WCPO that He could face more charges connected to the crash with the Honda.

Photo contributed by Franklin Ohio Division of Police (via Facebook)

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SANTEE, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  August Marriott was sentenced to six years in prison Tuesday for assault charges stemming from an incident in January during which he verbally assaulted and became violent with employees at a Great Clips salon in Santee.

* Watch the video above as FOX 5/KUSIs Juliette Vara reports on August Marriotts sentencing.

Marriott, 28, was seen in a widely circulated video throwing shampoo bottles and berating employees after being denied service for being an hour late to his appointment.

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According to the San Diego County Sheriffs Office, the incident occurred after Marriott was told he was late for his appointment and had arrived at the salon, located in the 9600 block of Mission Gorge Road, demanding to get a haircut.

Workers at Great Clips called SDSO, but Marriott drove away before deputies arrived. Authorities later tracked him down with help from the public.

In February, Marriott was arrested in Chula Vista and booked into the San Diego Central Jail on numerous charges, including assault with a deadly weapon, vandalism and violation of parole.

Marriott pleaded guilty to assault, along with having a prior strike conviction, as part of a plea deal.

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After pleading guilty, Marriott bailed out of jail and failed to appear in court. He then fled to Florida and was arrested by authorities there.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Donald Trumps administration has taken new steps toward dismantling the US Department of Education by reassigning many of its responsibilities to other federal agencies.

The move prompted a fresh wave of criticism, as prominent Democrats accused the administration of slashing resources for schools and students across the US.

On Tuesday, the education department announced a new agreement with six agencies  including the Departments of Labor, Interior, Health and Human Services, and State  to break up what it described as the federal education bureaucracy.

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According to the education department, the latest steps move closer to fulfilling the presidents promise to return education to the states.

Related: Trump officials wrongly deport trans woman in violation of court order

It added: By partnering with agencies that are best positioned to deliver results for students and taxpayers, these [interagency agreements] will streamline federal education activities on the legally required programs, reduce administrative burdens, and refocus programs and activities to better serve students and grantees.

New partnerships with various agencies include an education collaboration with the labor department covering elementary, secondary and post-secondary levels, a Native American education initiative with the interior department, a foreign medical accreditation agreement with the health and human services department, and an international education and foreign language studies partnership with the state department.

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Hailing the latest steps, the education secretary, Linda McMahon, said: Cutting through layers of red tape in Washington is one essential piece of our final mission  Together, we will refocus education on students, families, and schools  ensuring federal taxpayer spending is supporting a world-class education system.

Tuesdays announcement follows a video McMahon posted on X that featured clips of various Republican politicians including Ronald Reagan and George W Bush discussing efforts to dismantle the education department over the years. The clock is ticking  read the caption, with the video ending on the words: The final mission.

In March, Trump signed an executive order to dismantle the department in a move that appeared to circumvent the need to obtain congressional approval to formally shut down a federal agency.

Although the federal government does not set school curricula  a responsibility reserved for state and local authorities  Trump has repeatedly vowed to send education back to the states. The push has been driven, in part, by rightwing groups supporting the administrations crackdowns on equity policies and federal funding.

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The latest announcement on dismantling the education department was met with swift backlash from Democratic lawmakers, with Brian Fitzpatrick, a Pennsylvania representative, saying in a statement: For millions of families, particularly those raising children with disabilities or living in low-income communities, the departments core offices are not discretionary functions. They are foundational. They safeguard civil rights, expand opportunity, and ensure that every child, in every community, has the chance to learn, grow, and succeed on equal footing.

Altering them without transparency or congressional oversight would pose real risks to the very students they were created to protect. I will not allow it  and I urge all of my colleagues to stand with me, added Fitzpatrick.

It comes just a month after most of the education departments special education staff were reportedly laid off during the government shutdown. The October layoffs followed more than 1,300 cuts in March, which had already eliminated nearly half of the departments workforce.

Also criticizing Tuesdays announcement was Tim Walz, the Minnesota governor, who said: Nearly a million K-12 students in Minnesota rely on funding from the Department of Education. Trumps billionaire-led administration is slashing resources for students in rural communities, low-income families, and those who need special education. Minnesota will fight back.

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Like Walz, Michelle Lujan Grisham, New Mexicos governor, vowed to fight back, saying: The president is threatening to dismantle the department of education and slash more than $120m from our higher-ed system but, rest assured, New Mexico will keep protecting student aid, supporting our colleges and ensuring higher education remains accessible for all.

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If you can safely use the Tor network without being observed or monitored, you can send messages and documents to the Guardian via our SecureDrop platform.

Finally, our guide at theguardian.com/tips lists several ways to contact us securely, and discusses the pros and cons of each.
Senate Republicans are divided over whether to repeal language inserted in last weeks spending deal allowing senators to sue the Justice Department over metadata collection.

Sen. Steve Daines, R-Mont., doubts a repeal would pass the Senate, calling the original provision appropriate.

But Sen. Rand Paul, R-Ky., thinks the upper chamber might have to deal with the issue after the House rolls it back as soon as today: It certainly looks like its pretty unpopular.

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Even Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., whose metadata was swept up, called the Senate language a bad idea.

There needs to be accountability for the Biden DOJs outrageous abuse of the separation of powers, but the right way to do that is through public hearings, tough oversight, including of the complicit telecomm companies, and prosecution where warranted, Hawley said.

Senate Appropriations Chair Susan Collins, R-Maine, said she had nothing to do with it and that what they came up with was a result of negotiations between Senate Majority Leader John Thune and Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer.

Schumer said Thune wanted it and now wants to repeal it  but Democrats wanted to make sure that at least Democratic senators were protected from [Attorney General Pam] Bondi and others who might go after them.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz does not believe that his controversial comments about Belem, the Amazonian city hosting the UN Climate Change Conference summit, have harmed relations with Brazil.

"I said that Germany is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and President Lula will probably accept that," Merz said on Wednesday at a press conference with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Berlin.

Environment Minister Carsten Schneider had spoken to President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva in Brazil on Wednesday afternoon, Merz said. "I asked him to pass on my warmest regards to President Lula."

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The chancellor said he would have "another good conversation" with Lula at the G20 summit in Johannesburg at the weekend, "completely unencumbered."

Following his visit to the climate conference in Belem, which only lasted around 20 hours, Merz spoke at a trade conference in Berlin about his impressions of the poor city in the northern Brazilian state of Para.

Merz had travelled to Belem for a summit two weeks ago ahead of the negotiations. On his return to Berlin, the chancellor said he had asked journalists who accompanied him whether any of them wanted to stay in the city.

"No one raised their hand," Merz said. He argued that the reporters were "happy" to return to Germany, which he described as "one of the most beautiful countries in the world."

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The statement triggered outraged reactions in Brazil, including from Lula.

Merz should have gone to a bar, danced there and tasted the local cuisine, "because then he would have realized that Berlin doesn't even offer him 10% of the quality that the state of Para and the city of Belem offer," Lula shot back.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday issued a strong condemnation of Russia's massively escalated attacks on infrastructure in Ukraine as a direct campaign against civilians.

"This has nothing to do with military objectives anymore. It is pure terror warfare against the civilian population of Ukraine," Merz said at a meeting with Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson in Berlin.

The comments came hours after at least 25 people died when a Russian air attack devastated two housing blocks in the western Ukrainian city of Ternopil. At least 73 people were injured, including 16 children, officials said.

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In further moves to curb Moscow's military campaign, Merz called on European partners to reach an agreement on the use of Russian assets by next month.

"This is our strongest lever to bring Moscow to the negotiating table and end this terrible war in the long term," he said, thanking his Swedish guest for his support in the matter.

He reiterated that Germany will increase financial support for the Ukrainian military by an additional 3 billion ($3.4 billion) next year, citing both humanitarian and security interests. In return, Ukraine is expected to remain a reliable partner.

"And that also means taking real, relentless action against corruption. That is an absolute must in Ukraine," said Merz.

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He had already told Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky this twice, he added, "once in person and once in a phone call in the last few days."

Kristersson also stressed the importance of using frank language when addressing corruption in Ukraine.
BERLIN (AP)  Chancellor Friedrich Merz on Wednesday downplayed the impact of remarks he made about Brazil that drew sharp criticism from officials there, and the German leader's spokesperson said he hadn't denigrated the South American country.

President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, Belem's mayor, the governor of Para state and several lawmakers pushed back against comments Merz made last week following a Nov. 7 visit to Belem, the Brazilian city that is hosting this year's U.N. climate summit. Merz appeared to be trying to put into perspective complaints about the current situation in prosperous Germany, whose economy is struggling to generate growth, in a speech to a trade conference in Berlin.

We live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world. Last week I asked some journalists who were with me in Brazil: Which of you would like to stay here? No one raised their hand, Merz said. They were all happy that, above all, we returned from this place to Germany in the night from Friday to Saturday.

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Merz met Lula in Belem and will see him again at the Group of 20 summit in South Africa this weekend. I expect that we will have another good meeting in South Africa, completely unencumbered by the flap, he told reporters at a news conference in Berlin with his Swedish counterpart.

I said that Germany is one of the most beautiful countries in the world, and President Lula will probably also accept that, he added, without directly addressing a question as to whether he regretted his remarks.

Earlier Wednesday, Merz spokesperson Stefan Kornelius said that it is far from the chancellor to comment in a derogatory way about Brazil.

Kornelius said at a regular government news conference that Merz's impression of his trip had been very positive and there is no doubt that Brazil is our most important partner geostrategically and economically in South America."

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The disputed remark essentially concerned the wish of the delegation to return home after a very tiring night flight and a long day in Belem, he said. When the chancellor says that we live in one of the most beautiful countries in the world, that doesn't mean other countries aren't also very beautiful.

Asked whether Merz would apologize and whether he saw any damage to relations, Kornelius replied: No, twice.
Some of the most successful tech companies in U.S. history started from humble beginnings. Former Apple CEO Steve Jobs built the tech giants first computer model in a garageand Dells founder started his $90 billion legacy from his dorm room. Another thing they have in commonthey were both college dropouts.

While many businesses have modest beginnings, Dell says risk-taking focused his mind.

If you want to really make it big, you better come up with something unique, Michael Dell, the founder, chairman, and CEO of Dell Technologies, told Fortune in a 2017 interview. It better be differentiatedthat nobody else is doing.

His other piece of advice for entrepreneurs is to take feedback with a grain of salt. Instead, he says, he empowers people to trust their gut instincts on whether a new product or business idea will be successful in the long run.

If you go and ask people if its a good idea, most of them will tell you no, Dell told Fortune. So dont go ask.

To please his parents, Dell took up pre-med at the University of Texas in 1983, according to Entrepreneur. But Dell had long been fascinated by computers and technology, having disassembled an Apple II model at the age of 15 to see how it worked, according to a 1999 biography, Direct From Dell: Strategies That Revolutionized an Industry. It was at the age of 19 that Dell started selling upgrade kits for personal computers to other students in his dorma move that launched his tech empire.

Taking a risk

Dell Technologies was born from risk. Only partway into his college career, Dell had just $1,000 to invest into the business, and his manufacturing team consisted of three guys with screwdrivers sitting at six-foot tables, he said in Direct From Dell.

You have to embrace risk, and you have to accept failure, Dell told Fortune.

Even before the inception of Dell Technologies, Dell had long had an entrepreneurial spirit. While attending Memorial High School in Houston, he sold subscriptions to the Houston Post (later acquired by the Houston Chronicle), and was hugely successful in learning how to target specific populations instead of pursuing the classic cold-call sales technique. He made $18,000 in one year from that venture, which was even more than some of his high school teachers made, according to a 2021 Fortune Leadership Next podcast.

Dell had figured out newlyweds were more likely to buy newspaper subscriptions, so using FOIA requests, he found the marriage licensesand subsequently, addressesof the people he thought would be most likely to purchase a newspaper subscription from him.
The Mexican Consulate of Raleigh is often bustling with people, but ABC11 found nobody waiting in line Wednesday. Officials said attendance has dropped significantly, roughly 83%, since federal immigration enforcement started moving into North Carolina.

ABC11 was told there were usually approximately 350 people per day who stopped by for services. On Tuesday, there were just 57 Mexican nationals who came to the consulate.

Consul General of Mexico in Raleigh Donaji Alba Arroyo said there's a lot of fear right now in that community.

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"We have, we had some difficult days here," said Arroyo. "We have rights being a Mexican citizens in this country."

ABC11 also learned that the consulate has stepped in to help five people in North Carolina who have been detained, and it says the consulate stands ready to assist others.

Arroya said she has been in communication with Mexico's president about the string of detentions in Charlotte and Raleigh.

"As President Claudia Sheinbaum says, 'We have coordination, but not subordination,'" said Arroyo.

She there's been an increase in people reaching out by phone or social media for guidance around the federal immigration enforcement detentions, and that the consulate is a haven.

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"We came here to ... we came to the United States to work, and the Mexican workers are the most strong people that I have ever knew," said Arroyo. "We're going to be together, and the Mexican consulate is here for them."

There is a hotline for Mexican nationals to get information 24/7. The number is (520) 623-7874.

Stay on top of breaking news stories with the ABC11 News App
EXCLUSIVE - A Mexican man who illegally entered the United States at least five times was arrested following his conviction for abducting and enticing a child.

Leonardo Ignot-Osto, 40, was in the Scott County Jail in Illinois when he was arrested on Sunday by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents.

"This is who ICE is arresting in Chicago, a criminal alien that repeatedly entered the U.S. illegally and went to commit heinous crimes against a child," said ICE Assistant Director for Public Affairs Emily Covington.

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Border Patrol Chief Fires Back After Chicago Mayor Calls Him 'Barbaric' Over Tear Gas Clash

Leonardo Ignot-Osto, 40, was arrested after he was convicted of abduction of a child. He illegally entered the U.S. at least five times, authorities said.

Ignot-Osto illegally entered the U.S. at least five times dating back to 2005, ICE said.

U.S. Border Patrol encountered him four times in 2005, and each time, he voluntarily returned to Mexico. He snuck back into the country for at least the fifth time prior to his first criminal conviction in the U.S., authorities said.

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On April 15, 2025, he was charged in Illinois with abduction, kidnapping a child, and two counts of enticement of a child for indecent purposes, ICE said.

Border Patrol Chief Fires Back After Pritzker Calls Federal Operations 'Unconstitutional Invasion'

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On Sept. 18, he was found guilty of child abduction and luring a child under 17 and sentenced to a year in prison.

"This man is clearly a public safety threat, and if the sanctuary city of Chicago would have turned him over to us after his first conviction in 2010, he wouldnt have been here to victimize an innocent child," Covington said.

Ignot-Osto is currently being held by ICE pending deportation proceedings.

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Immigration authorities have been operating in the Chicago area in an effort to curb crime and deport criminal illegal immigrants, despite heavy push back from local and state officials.





Original article source: Mexican man who illegally entered US five times arrested after child abduction conviction in Illinois
The law enforcement officers who police the Michigan Capitol will soon have expanded powers to investigate threats against lawmakers and provide them extra security outside the Capitol complex.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer signed a bill into law Nov. 18 making the changes, which will take effect next year.

Sergeants at arms' policing jurisdiction currently includes the Capitol building and grounds, legislative office buildings and legislative parking areas. But they will soon have the authority to provide security where necessary to protect lawmakers, along with lawmakers' family members or staff members, in response to threats or crimes targeting lawmakers because of their work in elected office. They will also provide security at events lawmakers attend as part of their job.

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Additionally, sergeants at arms could begin investigating threats and crimes against lawmakers in coordination with state and local law enforcement agencies.

To exercise the new policing and investigative powers, the Senate majority leader or House speaker needs to approve a lawmaker's request for the support.

The move to expand the powers of lawmakers' police force comes after they approved $6 million in the current state budget  $3 million for the Michigan House and Senate, respectively  "to expand security and enforcement capabilities of the sergeant at arms," according to a House Fiscal Agency analysis.

More: Detroits ethics system under fire as Mary Sheffield faces first test as mayor-elect

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Michigan House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, championed the legislation, saying it will empower him and sergeants at arms to do more to protect lawmakers from threats. Bill sponsor state Rep. Sarah Lightner, R-Springport, did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

The bill passed unanimously in the Michigan House, but passed 20-16 in the Michigan Senate. Among the senators who opposed the bill was state Sen. Jeremy Moss, D-Southfield, who recently was the victim of a bomb threat at his house. Moss did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Contact Clara Hendrickson at chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan Capitol's law enforcement see new policing powers
Legislatively directed spending, enhancement grants, special legislative grants, earmarks, pork. Whatever the preferred nomenclature, new Michigan laws will bring greater transparency to state spending directly awarded to a specific entity, such as a nonprofit or local government, at a lawmaker's request.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on Nov. 18 signed a pair of bills establishing new disclosure requirements and mandating a 45-day period for the public to learn about earmark funding proposals before lawmakers approve the spending. Earmarks don't go through the typical process for distributing public dollars in which a state department or agency evaluates which bidders should receive funding.

The changes to the law come after recent state budgets saw an explosion in earmark spending following an unprecedented surge in state revenue due to federal COVID-19 stimulus support, according to Citizens Research Council of Michigan Senior Research Associate for State Affairs Bob Schneider.

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When it comes to budgeting, Schneider said a competitive process for awarding state funds is better than earmarks, which don't always deliver money where it's needed most. But most troubling to Schneider is the last-minute addition of earmarks just before lawmakers are expected to pass the state budget. For instance, he found about two-thirds of the over $1.3 billion in earmarks in the state budget for the fiscal year that ended Sept. 30, 2024, were not included in either the governor's budget request of previously approved budget bills, meaning neither lawmakers nor the public had time to vet what he labeled "eleventh-hour earmarks" and called "the worst of the worst" in terms of bad earmark budgeting.

"That shouldn't happen anymore under this legislation. And that's a positive," Schneider said.

Earmark spending in recent years has included $14 million to John Ball Zoo as part of its African expansion with the aim of adding new animal attractions such as giraffes, $1 million to Battle Creek for terra cotta repairs at its city hall and $5 million for a Canton Township road project.

House Speaker Matt Hall, R-Richland Township, made overhauling the earmark process a key piece of his plan to shine some sunlight in Lansing  what he dubs the "Hall Ethics, Accountability, and Transparency Plan." He described the legislation signed by Whitmer as the most important ethics and transparency measure to move through the Michigan Legislature in many years during a recent press conference.

Michigan Speaker Matt Hall speaks before Vice President JD Vance addresses a crowd at Vantage Plastics in Bangor Township on Friday, March 14, 2025.

In January, the Michigan House unanimously adopted a resolution establishing a disclosure process for earmarks. The Michigan Senate followed with its own resolution, adopted as lawmakers scrambled to reach a state spending deal to avert a government shutdown and Hall made earmark transparency a sticking point in negotiations. Hall has cast the earmark transparency legislation as a way to codify disclosure requirements in state law.

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Gov. Gretchen Whitmer supported the concept in her State of the State address after she introduced her budget recommendation. "Every February, after I propose the budget, the Legislature adds earmarks. Now, these can be important: fire stations, roads, schools. Some of them? Not so much," she said. "I know Speaker Hall is passionate about bringing accountability to the process, and I agree. In this year's budget, let's have total transparency on all earmarks, because if you want to invest taxpayer money, you should put your name on it."

Whitmer in a statement Nov. 18 noted the promise she made in her speech. "Less than a year later, I'm proud to sign these two bills that require lawmakers to put their names on any projects they propose. I'll keep working with anyone to serve Michiganders and increase transparency in our government," she said.

What earmark transparency bills do

The new law requires that within five business days of a lawmaker asking for funding, the Michigan House and Senate would publicly post on their websites information on the request, including the name of the sponsoring lawmaker, the proposed recipient and the purpose of the spending amount. The information must be posted for at least 45 days before lawmakers in both chambers approve the spending requests. The funding proposals must be presented at a legislative hearing.

Unless lawmakers hold a leadership position, they cannot request an earmark for a recipient or population outside of their district or a county not located in their district.

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Information posted online following approval of the spending must include the state department or agency responsible for administering the funds, status of the spending and whether any changes have been made to the spending agreement.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer gives her State of the State Address at the Michigan State Capitol building in Lansing on Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2025.

Under the new law, for-profit entities can't receive such funding. Nonprofits can receive earmarks if they have operated in the state for at least three consecutive years with a physical office in Michigan for at least a year. They must also have a board of directors. And local governments can continue to receive funding through legislatively directed spending items.

When seeking the funding, lawmakers will have to certify that no immediate family members or legislative staff members have a financial interest in their request. Earmark recipients would be banned from using state funds to pay off tax delinquencies and they would be required to repay funds not used for their intended purpose.

The new law requires Michigan's auditor general to evaluate how state departments administer the spending as part of their annual financial audits.

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More: Detroit's ethics system under fire as Mary Sheffield faces first test as mayor-elect

Earmarks in previous budgets prompt criminal investigations

The changes come after past earmarks prompted criminal investigations. Attorney General Dana Nessel's office, in an ongoing probe, is looking into how metro Detroit businesswoman Fay Beydoun spent part of the $20 million grant in the state budget approved in 2022. Her nonprofit Global Link International wasn't incorporated until 10 days after lawmakers approved the funding, according to a state filing. No criminal charges have been brought.

Meanwhile, Nessel's office charged a former legislative aide with embezzlement, alleging he misused a state grant intended for a central Michigan health park to buy cars, firearm accessories, gold, silver and platinum bars, among other personal expenses.

Contact Clara Hendrickson at chendrickson@freepress.com or 313-296-5743.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan has new disclosure rules for state budget earmarks
A series of mass layoffs and corporate cutbacks in Middle Tennessee this year continues as automotive parts manufacturer ABC Technologies temporarily furloughs dozens of employees.

ABC Technologies, an auto industry supplier located in Gallatin, filed a state Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Nov. 18, announcing 85 employees furloughed as of Nov. 24.

It was not disclosed when the employees should expect to return to work.

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The employees are not represented by a collective bargaining agreement and do not maintain bumping rights, according to the WARN.

In April, ABC Technologies acquired TI Fluid Solutions, rebranding the business to TI Automotive, a market-leading Tier 1 supplier of safety and performance critical products and highly engineered components to the global automotive industry, according to the website.

TI Automotive specializes in fuel system technology with fuel pumps, fuel pump kits and accessories.

ABC Technologies and TI Automotive officials did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

What other Middle Tennessee layoffs happened recently?

On Oct. 30, General Motors announced that it was temporarily laying off 710 workers at Ultium Cells, the companys battery assembly plant in Spring Hill. The plant, a joint facility with LG Energy Solution, halted production until mid-2026, citing low electric vehicle demand.

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Additionally, a Home Depot distribution and subsidiary HD Supply announced plans to shutter its factory just outside La Verge in Davidson County next year, laying off 108 workers.

NTT Data, a Japanese IT consulting firm announced plans to trim its workforce by 108 before the end of the year, four years after opening its Nashville branch.

The 54-year-old Bridgestone Americas plant also closed its doors in July eliminating 658 jobs in La Verge.

In April, Saks Fifth Avenue supplier, Saks Global fulfillment center announced it would close, laying off 446 workers.

Other recent layoffs include Smyrna logistics firm WWL Vehicle Services Americas, Inc., Murfreesboro freight company Quickway Transportation and Spring Hill auto parts supplier OPMobility and Tennoco. The companies laid off a combined total of 259 employees.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Gallatin auto parts manufacturer furloughs 85 workers
The government lawyer knew what was coming as she stood inside a courtroom and texted an Immigration and Customs Enforcement agent waiting in a corridor a few feet away.

I cant do this, the lawyer said in a text message as she looked at her docket of cases. This is a new emotional load.

I understand, the agent responded. Hopefully we meet again in a better situation.

Nearby, a Cuban man who had lived in the United States for years stepped from an elevator and into the courtroom where the government lawyer was waiting for what the man thought was a routine hearing.

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The man was doing what the law required, and brought along his wife, a legal resident, and their 7-month-old infant.

Then the lawyer quickly moved to have the mans asylum claim dismissed and a judge agreed, making the man eligible for expedited removal. As he left the courtroom, the man was swarmed by plainclothes immigration agents who had been surveilling him. A struggle ensued and the wifes shouts could be heard from the hallway as the lawyer moved on to the next case.

The agent replied four minutes later: Got him.

Similar scenes of courthouse arrests, part of a makeover of the immigration courts under President Donald Trump, are playing out across the United States as his call for mass deportations of migrants is executed with unusually aggressive tactics.

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Trump's pledge during his 2024 campaign to impose hard-line immigration policies was a major reason he won a second term. Now that Americans have seen how the plan is being implemented, there are signs that many think he has gone too far. About 57% of adults disapprove of Trumps handling of immigration, according to a survey this month by The Associated Press-NORC Center for Public Affairs Research.

Over several months, reporters for The Associated Press observed immigration court proceedings in 21 cities. Hearings repeatedly ended with cases dismissed by the government, allowing plainclothes federal agents to carry out arrests in courthouse hallways in close coordination with attorneys from the Department of Homeland Security.

Screenshots of the text messages were obtained by The Associated Press from a government official who feared reprisal and provided them on condition of anonymity. The messages offer a rare look at how the nation's 75 immigration courts are churning out rulings in an assembly-line like fashion and how, for many people, the courtrooms have become deportation traps.

Courthouse arrests coordinated days in advance

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In a court system with a backlog of about 3.8 million asylum cases, families have been torn apart and lives upended. Due process seemingly is an afterthought.

When Americans picture a courtroom, there are a few core expectations" of fairness, dignity and impartiality, said Ashley Tabaddor, a former immigration judge in Los Angeles and past president of the National Association of Immigration Judges.

"Thats what makes a court  not a room with a bench or person with a robe, she said. But what we have here is a vision completely turned on its head.

Over the past nine months, the Trump administration has fired almost 90 immigration judges seen by Trump's allies as too lenient, directed masked officers to handcuff migrants at closed asylum hearings and sent memos instructing judges to fall into line.

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Unlike federal courts, where there are strict rules of procedure and judges have lifetime tenure, the Justice Department runs immigration courts and the attorney general can fire the judges with fewer restraints.

Nine current officials spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of retaliation. Most expressed deep misgivings about punishing people who had followed the rules and showed up for court hearings.

As a government attorney, my duty is to uphold the law and protect the public interest  not to secure removal or detention outcomes by default, a government lawyer wrote to the American Bar Association seeking professional guidance.

But that is not how cases are often unfolding.

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Courthouse arrests are coordinated days in advance to meet quotas with little regard for the particulars of a case, according to several of the U.S. officials.

According to one official, Homeland Security lawyers note on a spreadsheet which cases are amenable to dismissal, allowing an asylum-seeker to be immediately rearrested and placed in expedited removal proceedings. Most of those detained are men without lawyers who entered the U.S. alone and are expected to appear in court in person. Contrary to Trump's claims that he is targeting the worst of the worst, most don't have a criminal conviction, according to a Cato Institute analysis of ICE data.

ICE reviews the spreadsheet and selects which people it wants to pursue if cases are dismissed. On the hearing date, federal agents communicate directly with DHS lawyers, who act as prosecutors in immigration courts. The lawyer often provides near verbatim updates of the proceedings over text message to agents waiting outside the courtroom.

Black shirt? Let me know if the judge dismissed, an ICE agent texted during one hearing.

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Lack of independence limits immigration courts authority

Almost from the outset, immigration courts were plagued by a lack of resources, authority and judicial independence.

The courts were established in 1952, but it was not until 1973 that special inquiry officers were given the judge title and allowed to wear judicial robes. The Executive Office for Immigration Review, or EOIR, was created in 1983. But that agency remained a part of the Justice Department, giving the attorney general authority to override decisions.

We were a legal Cinderella, said Dana Leigh Marks, who retired as an immigration judge in 2021 after a 34-year career. No other court in the nation functions like this.

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The first Trump administration undertook a series of changes to reduce the case backlog, including instructing judges to deny entire categories of asylum claims such as for victims of gang or domestic violence.

It also set up a dashboard that would become the bane of many judges: Red, yellow and green gauges measure each judges performance on goals ranging from completed cases  a minimum of 700 annually, regardless of complexity  to how many custody cases were decided on their first hearings.

To meet the metrics, judges must race through dockets, sometimes devoting mere minutes to evaluate asylum-seekers' claims.

Its like deciding death penalty cases in a traffic court setting, Marks said.

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Administration refers to immigration judges as inferior officers

When Trump returned to the White House in January, his allies took direct aim at the court.

Since then, the Justice Department has issued 52 policy memos  more than the previous six years combined  making it easier to hire and fire judges and warning against pro-migrant bias.

The memos highlight the courts weakened status by referring to judges as inferior officers  a rarely used term taken from the Constitution.

In early September, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said he would lend 600 military lawyers to the immigration courts, about equal to the current number of judges. The goal, according to the administration, is to more effectively reduce caseloads by widening the pool of potential judges to include people already steeped in administrative law. But many migrant advocates are concerned the incoming judges lack the necessary experience to decide asylum cases.

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It makes as much sense as having a cardiologist do a hip replacement, said Ben Johnson, executive director of the American Immigration Lawyers Association.

The administration has pushed back against criticism it is co-opting the courts to accelerate its deportation goals. In a statement, Justice Department spokeswoman Natalie Baldassarre said DHS decides whether to arrest migrants and that most judges consider it an honor rather than an insult to be called an inferior officer empowered by the Constitution and serving at the will of the attorney general.

Baldassarre likened a record surge of asylum seekers during the Biden administration to an improper conspiracy between DHS and the Immigration Courts to effectuate an unlawful amnesty for hundreds of thousands of illegal aliens. The Justice Department, she said, had "restored the integrity, impartiality, and independence of the Courts.

DHS did not respond to repeated email and phone requests for comment.

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Government attorneys fear harassment, haunted by arrests

For some inside the courts, work has become a stressful, lonesome grind. Fear prevails. Resumes are being updated.

One DHS lawyer described being haunted at night by the sound of jangling shackles of migrants the lawyer helped arrest. The lawyer joined the government after the attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, believing that protecting Americas borders was a patriotic duty.

The lawyer still cherishes a signed copy of Nobel Prize winner Elie Wiesels memoir Night, which was handed out at a work seminar. Think higher, feel deeper, reads the authors inscription of the book, which is marked DHS Training Material.

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Today, its message torments.

This isnt what any of us signed up for, the lawyer said.

After a turbulent summer, the courthouses are starting to look lonely, too. With word spreading that a trap had been laid, many migrants, fearing arrest, are asking to appear online or are skipping hearings altogether.

Meanwhile, ambitious managers are publicly upbraiding those who raise doubts about the legality of locking up migrants with no criminal record in packed facilities. In a recent town hall with DHS principal legal adviser Charles Wall, several lawyers complained about the pressure, confusing orders and lack of resources, according to notes from the meeting shared with AP.

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Wall said the pace is likely to continue for years, the notes say. When one federal employee asked about bringing firearms to work for fear of harassment by activists inside courthouses, Wall said that judges should not hesitate to kick out the public. Wall could not be reached for comment.

I want to go back to my country

The harsh tactics have had one effect the administration wants: Voluntary migrant departures have soared, with more than 14,000 people seeking court permission to self-deport in the first eight months of 2025, according to federal data collected by Mobile Pathways, a San Francisco-based nonprofit that pushes for transparency in migration proceedings. That is more than the previous five years combined. The number is almost certainly an undercount because most migrants do not withdraw their asylum claim before self-deporting.

At immigration court in Tacoma, Washington, the detainees came up one after the other with the same plea.

I want to go back to my country, a Venezuelan man told Judge Theresa Scala.

I want to leave the country, said a man from Mexico.

Immigrants know what they face: detention centers with ominous names  Alligator Alcatraz, Louisiana Lockup and Speedway Slammer  as well as workplace raids and neighborhood dragnets.

Fired judges targeted as too liberal

Tania Nemer believes she was cut out to be a judge. From the bench at immigration court in Cleveland, she prided herself on listening carefully to each persons asylum claim.

Theres a simplicity about it that I just loved, she told the AP. If you can provide justice in an efficient manner, you can really help a lot of people.

The decision to apply to become an immigration judge in 2023 was deeply personal. Her father fled turmoil in Lebanon and arrived in Ohio at 16 with $6 in his pocket. He washed cars, learned English and eventually opened a namesake bar  Mannys Pub  that allowed him to provide for his family. When Nemer married, her wedding gift was the unspent dollar bills, so she would never forget her roots.

But Nemers fondness for the law came crashing down Feb. 5. In the middle of a hearing, her supervisor opened the door of her packed courtroom and told her she needed to come with him.

As soon as he said Grab your ID, I knew I was being terminated, she said.

Still in shock, she was handed a two-paragraph letter, digitally signed by Sirce Owen, the acting director of the Executive Office for Immigration Review. It said she was being removed because the agency "has determined that retaining you is not appropriate, and we thank you for your service.

No justification was given. But she thinks she knows some of the reasons: her Arab-sounding name, a history of previously representing migrants and diversity, equity and inclusion, or DEI, course work from Cornell University. She filed a discrimination claim with the Justice Department to find out why she was fired; the complaint was dismissed.

Nemer was the first judge fired after Trump returned to the White House. But 86 have been sacked since. Dozens more took the Department of Government Efficiencys Fork in the Road resignation offer.

The majority were hired under Democratic President Joe Biden and are still serving two-year probationary periods, according to a list of the fired judges obtained by the AP.

It is unclear who ordered the firings or how they were selected. But those removed granted asylum at markedly higher rates than their peers  in about half of all cases since August 2023 compared with 34% nationwide, according to Mobile Pathways.

Among those purged were all 10 that appeared on the DHS Bureaucrat Watch List, a website created last year with funding from The Heritage Foundation, whose Project 2025 was a blueprint for the Trump administrations policies and personnel decisions.

The list includes names, Facebook photos, salaries and campaign donations for what it calls Americas most subversive immigration bureaucrats. One target was Emmett Soper, a judge in northern Virginia who worked at EOIR headquarters during the Biden administration.

As soon as I saw that, I knew the rules were changing, that I was under some kind of microscope that didnt exist before, he said.

Tom Jones, the conservative creator of the website, declined to be interviewed.

Baldassarre, the Justice Department spokeswoman, said the department is not targeting specific individuals for firing but does continually evaluate all judges.

All judges have a legal, ethical, and professional obligation to be impartial and neutral in adjudicating cases, Baldassarre said. If a judge violates that obligation by demonstrating a systematic bias in favor of or against either party, EOIR is obligated to take action to preserve the integrity of its system.

The wave of firings and new directives from the Justice Department has had a chilling effect. Denial of motions to appear for hearings online tripled after a March memo repealing Biden-era guidelines instructing judges to generally grant such requests, according to Mobile Pathways data. Denial of continuances, which allow migrants extra time to seek legal counsel, have also spiked as have the number of cases classified as abandoned.

Nemer returned to immigration court in October for the first time since being fired to represent a Mexican client she has known for 20 years and who was picked up by unidentified agents. While the man was jailed, his girlfriend, who was five months pregnant, miscarried.

Word of the former judge's return quickly spread and a stream of former colleagues came to the courtroom to hug her and express their dismay over her firing.

By the third hug I couldnt hold it in and just started crying, she said.

Legal assistance for migrants dries up after Trump budget cuts

Bug spray, sunscreen, fans and umbrellas compete with legal binders in the bed of a Toyota pickup across the street from immigration court in San Antonio.

This is the new office of American Gateways.

In April, the administration eliminated programs worth $30 million to provide free legal assistance to migrants, the vast majority of whom represent themselves in court.

But lawyers for American Gateways keep coming, four times a week, setting up in a parking lot. The conference room they once occupied inside the courthouse is now used as a break room for ICE agents.

Assistance ranges from helping immigrants file motions to rehearsing what they will say to judges. When they can, they sign people up for virtual appearances to minimize the risk of arrest.

Migrants rush to federal court to seek release from detention

The gutting of the immigration court has driven migrants to one place where standards of judicial independence are upheld: federal court.

Since May 15, when courthouse sweeps began, migrants have filed more than 3,000 habeas corpus petitions  to determine if someone is lawfully held in custody  seeking release.

The flood of claims threatens to clog the already crowded federal docket, which has little authority in immigration cases.

The administration is attempting to press the gas at such an unreasonable speed without considering due process, said Annelise Araujo, a Boston-based immigration attorney.

One petition, filed in Miami, was from a Cuban man detained the same day he and his American wife and 10-month-old daughter were moving into their first home. Several petitioners said they had survived torture at the hands of gangs in Mexico, Ecuador and Venezuela.

Another legal challenge was introduced by an HIV-positive man from Brazil taken into custody four days after his husband died of a heart attack. With the body of Frederico Abreus husband still at the funeral home, ICE officials knocked on his door stating they had documents belonging to the deceased man.

A father pulled away from his sobbing family

Those unable to afford a lawyer so they can sue in federal court have little recourse.

One was a man from Honduras who showed up at the northern Virginia immigration court with his wife and their infant baby. Another child, a son, unable to walk, pushed himself in a wheelchair studded with flashing, colorful lights. The family, fearful of further immigration problems, did not want to be identified.

The judge denied a government request to deport the man. But seconds later, as the family stepped from the courtroom, they were stopped by four ICE agents.

The wife sobbed, hanging on her husbands arm as she pleaded: Por favor, Por favor.

The husband clutched the sleeping infants carrier. Their son sat playing with a cell phone.

I need you to go ahead and say goodbye, an agent told the man. Crying, the man knelt to hug his son, who clung to his father, yelling repeatedly: Papa! Papa!

Finally, the father managed to pull himself away and started to leave with the ICE officers.

The boy tried to chase them. But the ICE agent was holding the back of the wheelchair as the boy futilely pumped his arms.

The Department of Homeland Security confirmed his July arrest. The family said he was later deported. Homeland Security said he voluntarily agreed to leave the country and returned to Honduras on Oct. 8 after three months in detention.

__

Goodman reported from Cleveland and Sullivan from Minneapolis; AP reporters who contributed are: Cedar Attanasio in New York; Martha Bellisle in Seattle and Tacoma, Washington; Jacques Billeaud in Phoenix; Kate Brumback in Atlanta; Eric Gay in San Antonio, Texas; Valerie Gonzalez in Harlingen, Texas; Aaron Kessler in Washington; Gisela Salomon in Miami; Rebecca Santana in Annandale and Sterling, Virginia; Lea Skene in Baltimore; Hannah Schoenbaum in Salt Lake City; Colleen Slevin in Denver; Elliot Spagat in San Diego; Sophia Tareen in Chicago and Indianapolis; Amy Taxin in Santa Ana, California; Julie Watson in San Diego.
Denise Lieberman of the Missouri Voter Protection Coalition, center, speaks Wednesday about the Supreme Court hearings on laws requiring a government-issued voter ID and barring paid voter registration solicitors (Rudi Keller/Missouri Independent).

The Missouri Supreme Court must decide if voters need government-issued ID cards and whether people trying to register new voters can be paid.

The judges on Wednesday heard a pair of cases arising from a 2022 law that also established two weeks of early voting before each election. If the high court throws out the voter ID portion of the law, it would trigger a provision that also scuttles the early voting period.

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The Missouri NAACP and the League of Women Voters filed both lawsuits and got a split result at the trial court level in Cole County. Circuit Judge Jon Beetem ruled the photo ID requirements were everyday burdens that did not violate voter rights but that the limitations on individuals and organizations running voter registration campaigns chill speech and advocacy related to voting and decrease participation in elections.

Together, the outcome of the two cases will determine whether Republicans have finally succeeded in goals they have sought for years  stricter limits on acceptable voting identification and higher obstacles for organizations engaged in voter registration campaigns.

Opponents of the voter ID requirements arent arguing that there should be no requirement for identification, Jason Orr of the ACLU of Missouri told the court Wednesday. It is the limited list of acceptable identification that violates voter rights, he said.

To vote under the 2022 law, a person must present a Missouri drivers license, non-driver identification or another identification card issued by Missouri or the federal government with a photo, birthdate and expiration date.

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This type of state photo ID requirement does not pass muster under the Missouri Constitution, Orr said.

Beetems ruling misses the mark, Orr said, because people with mobility issues who cannot obtain documents such as a birth certificate or who have misspellings on their documents have far more trouble than others getting identification issued.

The burdens certainly are not shared by majority citizens, but they are real, and they frustrate the ability of some Missourians to exercise this right, Orr said.

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Missouri Republicans have been trying since 2006 to enact the photo ID requirement. Prior to the 2022 law, every attempt had been rebuffed by the courts. Before the law took effect, acceptable identification included a school ID, a voter card issued by their county clerk or a utility bill in their name at their voting address.

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The photo ID requirement protects the integrity of elections and there is little evidence it has prevented Missourians from voting, said Lou Capozzi, state solicitor general.

People without ID can cast provisional ballots that will be counted if their signature matches the one on file, he said. In 2022, he said, only 116 ballots were not counted.

In his ruling, Beetem decided that the individual plaintiffs named in the lawsuit had not shown sufficient injury to sue and neither had the NAACP or the league as organizations. Capozzi noted that in his arguments.

They could present the court with a single person unable to vote under the law, he said.

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At a news conference after the hearing, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway said 116 is not a lot of votes and it shows the law is working as intended.

The goal is that anybody who is trying to vote who shouldnt be voting because theyre an illegal immigrant, because they dont live in Missouri, because theyre trying to vote more than once, doesnt get that opportunity, Hanaway said.

Denise Lieberman of the Missouri Voter Protection Coalition said she sees 116 votes not being counted as a violation of all Missourians rights. The inclusion of both the voter ID requirements and limitations on signing up new voters in the same bill shows the intent to make it harder, not easier, to vote, she said at a news conference.

The burdens to voters of a strict photo ID requirement to vote, the burdens on political speech of the voter registration and absentee ballot solicitations, are not academic, Lieberman said. They are not simply a matter of constitutional debate. These affect real voters here in the state of Missouri.

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The voter registration provisions bar paid voter registration solicitors, require anyone working to register voters to be a registered Missouri voter at least 18 years old and to file paperwork with the secretary of states office. The law also banned the practice of paying people to collect absentee ballots on behalf of homebound voters.

Arguing to overturn Beetems ruling, Deputy Solicitor General Michael Patton said the lower court ruling accepted too broad a definition of soliciting. Organizations can engage in voter registration drives that direct people to sign up through official government websites, he said, but cannot have individuals fill out cards that are turned in by the group.

Judge Paul Wilson was skeptical. He asked where else the limited definition would be acceptable.

Should we apply that in a soliciting sex case, saying that if it does not result in a completed transaction, it isnt soliciting? Wilson asked.

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Patton said the intent to receive sexual activity is what qualifies the act as soliciting.

And if a person working for a voter registration drive does not intend to personally collect registration forms, he said, it would not violate the law.

Unless there is an exchange of a completed application, we do not believe that is soliciting, Patton said.

The law includes criminal penalties for people who violate the restrictions on registering new voters. That has a chilling impact on free speech because it is open to interpretation, Kristen Mulvey of the Missouri ACLU told the judges.

The state has been unable to provide a consistent definition, Mulvey said. That will lead local law enforcement to make its own interpretations, she added.

It is not the secretary of state, Mulvey said, but each of the 115 prosecutors who are also defendants in this case, who are tasked with enforcing the criminal provisions.
Catherine Hanaway talks to reporters on Aug. 19 after being announced as the state's next attorney general (Jason Hancock/Missouri Independent).

Missouri will try to seize assets owned by China to collect a $24 billion default judgment in its case accusing the Asian nation of lying to the world about the COVID-19 pandemic that began in Wuhan, Attorney General Catherine Hanaway said.

U.S. District Judge Stephen Limbaugh entered the verdict in March after China did not defend itself in the lawsuit. Speaking to reporters at her office Wednesday, Hanaway said she is working to compile a list of properties and other assets owned by government agencies named in the lawsuit.

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Its been a long process for us to be able to enforce that judgment, but now well enforce that judgment, much like any other judgment in this area, Hanaway said.

The state will not try to take assets from companies owned by Chinese citizens or businesses, she said.

That would put the Smithfield Hog Production operation in north Missouri, previously known as Premium Standard Farms, off-limits. The farm is owned by China-based WH Group and is one of the most valuable Chinese-owned assets in the state.

We cant go after Chinese individuals or companies necessarily, Hanaway said. I might be proven wrong over time, but my belief is that weve got to go after those assets actually owned by China.

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In his ruling, Limbaugh wrote that China concealed the true nature of COVID-19 so it could stockpile protective gear that could limit spread of the virus.

Chinas pattern of actions strongly suggests that it had knowledge of the existence and human-to-human transmission of the COVID-19 virus as early as September 2019, Limbaugh wrote. Chinas actions also suggest that China engaged in a deliberate campaign to suppress information about the COVID-19 pandemic in order to support its campaign to hoard PPE from Missouri and an unsuspecting world.

Limbaugh found that Missouri lost tax revenue due to the pandemic and will experience a long-term loss of revenue as well, accepting the $8.04 billion estimate for the period 2020 to 2051. He added the states increased cost for protective gear, estimated at $123 million, due to the hoarding and tripled the amount to set the final judgment.

The judgment is against the Chinese government, the Communist Party of China, several national agencies, provincial and local governments around Wuhan and the Wuhan Institute of Virology.

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The first step toward collecting any part of the judgment will be getting a copy of the judgment, translated into Mandarin, and other documentation to the State Department via the federal court clerk, Hanaway said in a news release Wednesday evening.

Once the defendants are served, she said, the state will be back in court to identify assets it wants to seize.

The case was first filed by Eric Schmitt, who is now a U.S. Senator, and continued by Andrew Bailey, now co-deputy director of the FBI. Hanaway was appointed attorney general in September.

The Chinese embassy in Washington, D.C., issued a harsh statement about the judgment and Hanaways actions to collect.

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The steps China took to limit the spread of infection and provide for its people are acts of national sovereignty and are not subject to the jurisdiction of US courts, spokesperson Liu Pengyu said. The so-called pandemic compensation lawsuits fabricated by certain forces in the U.S. ignore basic objective facts and violate fundamental legal principles; they are purely malicious frivolous lawsuits and political manipulation, with extremely sinister intentions.

China will not pay and will retaliate if necessary, Pengyu said, to safeguard its legitimate rights and interests in response to the so-called lawsuits and judgments from the US.

This article was updated at 8 p.m. with additional information from Hanaway and the Chinese embassy.
According to the Mossad, coordinated raids in Austria and Germany resulted in arrests and the seizure of weapons and explosives intended for use on command.

A network of Hamas terror-affiliated infrastructure across Europe was exposed by the Mossad, the spy agency said on Wednesday, as it revealed the prolonged investigation it had conducted with European intelligence and law enforcement to thwart planned attacks against Israeli and Jewish targets.

The Mossad said that already in September, it had assisted European authorities in identifying Mahmoud Naim  the son of a top Hamas official, Basem Naim, who is himself a senior adviser to Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya  as the orchestrator of this overall plot. According to the Mossad, Naim had met with his father in Qatar to facilitate the ploy, illustrating that Hamas, at its highest levels, was sponsoring terrorist schemes.

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Hamas officials in Turkey have also been involved.

Mossad disrupted 'dozens' of Hamas terror ops.

Since Hamass October 7 massacre, the terrorist organization has accelerated efforts to build cells and logistics in Europe, mirroring the activity of Iran and its proxies. The Mossad said it continues to disrupt dozens of varying attack plots worldwide regularly as part of Israels overseas counterterrorism mandate.

It credited close, persistent cooperation with European services for recent breakthroughs and said efforts are ongoing.

Mossad unveils network of Hamas terror operations across Europe, November 19, 2025. (credit: PRIME MINISTER'S OFFICE)

The Mossad, together with its partners in Israel and worldwide, is working relentlessly to thwart attacks against Israeli, Jewish, and other innocent civilians across the globe, it said in a statement.

Recent arrests of Hamas members across Europe

Austrias civilian security agency in Vienna, the Directorate for State Security and Intelligence, uncovered and confiscated a weapons stash in September that included handguns and explosive materials, leading to the detention and questioning of suspects tied to a Hamas network. Local media later detailed the discovery of a Hamas-linked cache in the city and a related, subsequent arrest in London.

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European partners have expanded cooperation with Israels services while also tightening legal measures against Hamas-linked incitement and financing networks, the Mossad said.

In Germany, recent prosecutions and raids have targeted alleged Hamas operatives and supporters, reflecting a broader shift to curtail extremist infrastructure across the continent.

Meanwhile, German authorities, in separate operations, arrested multiple suspects last November on suspicion of acting on behalf of the terrorist organization by supplying weapons, with police reporting finds that included assault rifles, pistols, and ammunition.

Additional arrests followed this month, as investigators said a Hamas-associated operative helped procure arms for planned attacks in Europe.
BANGKOK (AP)  Myanmars military government extended its crackdown on online scam activities to a second major location, detaining hundreds of foreigners and seizing thousands of mobile phones used to carry out the fraud, state media reported Wednesday.

Myanmar is notorious for hosting cyberscam operations responsible for bilking people all over the world, which usually involve gaining victims confidence online with romantic ploys and bogus investment schemes. Authorities raided a major scam center in mid-October called KK Park on the outskirts of Myawaddy, a major trading town on the border with Thailand.

On Tuesday, the army raided a scam compound in the town of Shwe Kokko, also near Myawaddy, military spokesman Maj. Gen. Zaw Min Tun said in a statement published Wednesday in Myanma Alinn and other state newspapers.

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He said authorities detained 346 foreigners and confiscated nearly 10,000 mobile phones along with other related equipment, while blocking people who were trying flee across the border.

The U.N. Office on Drugs and Crime has estimated that hundreds of industrial-scale scam centers based primarily in Southeast Asia generate just under $40 billion in annual profits.

Myanmar's military government says it began its crackdown on cross-border online scams and illegal gambling in early September. Following the raid on KK Park last month, more 1,500 people from about two dozen nations who had worked there crossed into Thailand, and Zaw Min Tun said the sites buildings have been demolished, including by controlled explosions.

The entire area is only loosely under the control of Myanmars military government, and also comes under the influence of ethnic minority militias.

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Several ethnic Karen militias are active in the area, including the military-backed Border Guard Force, which has signed a ceasefire with the army, and the Karen National Union -- KNU -- which is fighting against the army an part of the nationwide resistance war against military rule.

The Border Guard Force has claimed credit for taking part in the crackdown, though it is widely believed to have earlier at least provided protection for scam operators. It had carried out similar raids in Shwe Kokko earlier this year, and photos published Wednesday show its members assisting in the latest operation.

The military government has claimed the KNU is linked to the scam centers on the basis of reported real estate deals.

Both the Border Guard Force and the KNU have denied involvement in the scam operations.

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Much of Zaw Min Tuns statement on Wednesday appeared to be aimed at addressing skepticism voiced on social media and by the military's critics who suspect the crackdown is superficial and that the raid on KK Park compound was staged. He stressed that the army was working to completely eradicate scam activities from their roots.

However, critics say that masterminds of the scam operations continue to operate elsewhere.

Zaw Min Tun highlighted Chinas cooperation in fighting Myanmars scam operations. China is the top ally of Myanmars military government, which is ostracized by many Western nations for ousting the democratically elected government on Aung San Suu Kyi in 2021 and reportedly perpetrating human rights abuses against it opponents.
Bollinger Motors, an Oak-Park-based electric vehicle manufacturer, has not paid its staff for at least the last two pay periods as it struggles to keep business going.

Bollinger was founded in 2015 and pitched itself as the builder of "the most bad-ass electric commercial trucks on the planet." The company builds vehicles in Livonia, is headquartered in Oak Park and has previously inked a manufacturing contract with Roush Industries, a Livonia-based manufacturer of high-performance vehicles, indicating that Roush would handle the production of Bollinger vehicles.

As of Nov. 18, the company's website lists a chassis cab truck, the B4, as available for order, as well as two boxy SUV prototypes, the B1 and B2. A larger chassis cab truck, the B5, appears to be slated for release in 2026.

A view of the Bollinger Motors B1 electric SUV prototype is seen at the company in Ferndale on Thursday, March 7, 2019.

But the company's finances suggest a rough road ahead.

In March, the company's founder and namesake, Robert Bollinger  who had left the company  sued to recoup on a $10 million loan he gave the company the previous October. Robert Bollinger alleged the company was broke and sought a receivership to handle repayment of his loan. The company put up the money with the help of its parent company, Mullen Automotive, and paid him. The company exited the receivership in June.

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The former founder is not the only party to sue Bollinger Motors over money owed. At least six suppliers have taken legal action this year, seeking to settle more than $5 million in overdue bills, according to Crain's Detroit Business.

Now, according to emails obtained by the Free Press, the local EV startup is struggling to pay its workforce.

"Unfortunately, we could not process this weeks payroll on schedule due to a delay in receiving the expected funds," reads an Oct. 31 email from Walter Collins, the chief operating officer of Bollinger Motors. "As of today, we do not yet have a confirmed update on funding to meet payroll ending October 31, 2025. As soon as funds are received, we will process payroll in full. I will provide updates as new information becomes available."

A follow-up email was sent a week later, on Nov. 6, with Collins telling employees that funding still had yet to be secured to pay employees.

Keely Lovern, spokesperson for the state labor department, wrote in an email to the Free Press that the department currently has "59 open claims against Bollinger Innovations for unpaid wages or benefits. Those claims are still open and under investigation."
A Jersey City Police sergeant and former mayor of a Bergen County town was arrested Monday after he was accused of sexually assaulting a child he met through social media, authorities said.

Former Dumont Mayor Andrew LaBruno, 44, was charged with aggravated sexual assault, sexual assault and endangering the welfare of a child, the Bergen County Prosecutors Office announced Tuesday.

LaBruno, a Democrat, recently ran for a state Assembly seat in the 39th District. He and Donna Abene were narrowly defeated in the Nov. 4 election by Republicans John Azzariti and Robert Auth.

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An investigation into the allegations was launched Monday and it revealed that LaBruno, who was a stranger to the child, began talking with the child through an unnamed social media app and then made plans to meet them at their Englewood home, authorities said.

He then sexually assaulted the child while they were home alone on an unspecified date, authorities said.

According to an affidavit of probable cause, LaBruno sprayed something into his hand and covered the juveniles nose and mouth, leaving the child incapacitated.

LaBruno was arrested and charged Monday and was held in the Bergen County Jail pending the results of his detention hearing, officials said.

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A spokeswoman for the Jersey City Police Department said LaBruno was suspended without pay immediately following his arrest.

The JCPD will assist the Bergen County Prosecutors Office as needed during its criminal investigation, she said. As is standard procedure, JCPD Internal Affairs is conducting its own investigation and will determine his final employment status pending the outcome of all investigations.

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A death investigation is underway in Somerville, N.J., after a SWAT team responding to a report of a gunshot found an armed man lying on a couch surrounded by handguns, and a womans body decomposing on the kitchen floor.

The initial call from a neighborhood resident came in at 1:08 p.m. Sunday. Arriving police could not get a response from inside the house, so they called in a SWAT team that eventually had to force their way in.

Inside they found 66-year-old Thomas Shaulis, who they arrested and took to the hospital under police guard. The woman in the kitchen was dead and in advanced stages of decomposition, while the house itself had hoarder-like conditions with an infestation of bed bugs, the prosecutors office said.

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The woman will be autopsied and identified at the Northern Regional Medical Examiners Office, which will determine how and why she died, and notify next of kin.

Shaulis was charged with second-degree possession of a firearm for an unlawful purpose and will be jailed pending a detention hearing once hes released, Somerset County Prosecutor John McDonald said. Police also removed numerous firearms and ammunition from the house, and found two bullet holes in a home on the street when they canvassed the neighborhood.

Detectives from the Somerville Police Department, the Somerset County Prosecutors Office Major Crimes Unit, the Crime Scene Investigations Unit, and medical investigators from the New Jersey Northern Regional Medical Examiners Office all worked the scene, McDonald said.
NASA on Wednesday released new images of an interstellar comet, just the third visitor ever confirmed from elsewhere in the galaxy, which show the object as a bright point of light surrounded by a blurry halo of gas and dust.

In the long-awaited photos, the comet, dubbed 3I/ATLAS, mostly appears as an illuminated dot, but some images also reveal its tail as a faint, elongated smudge.

The interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS, circled in the center, as seen by NASAs Lucy spacecraft. This image was made by stacking a series of images taken Sept. 16 as the comet was zooming toward Mars. (NASA / Goddard / SwRI / JHU-APL)

Comet 3I/ATLAS was first detected in July, sparking a flurry of interest among scientists and in amateur astronomy circles. Much of the intrigue stems from the extremely rare chance to get a relatively up-close view of an interstellar object.

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The new images were taken by various NASA spacecraft from late September through mid-October, as the mysterious comet swung through the inner solar system. They were not made public until now because of the government shutdown, which put work at NASA and other federal agencies on hold.

The NASA missions behind the new photos include its sun-watching PUNCH satellites, the Solar and Heliospheric Observatory, the Mars Atmosphere and Volatile EvolutioN (MAVEN) mission and the Perseverance Rover on the surface of Mars.

Traveling 130,000 mph, 3I/ATLAS was made visible via a series of colorized stacked images from Sept. 11 to 25 using a visible-light imager on the STEREO-A (Solar Terrestrial Relations Observatory) spacecraft. (NASA / Lowell Observatory / Qicheng Zhang)

Before 3I/ATLAS, the only two objects ever confirmed to have entered our solar system from someplace beyond in the galaxy were the cigar-shaped Oumuamua in 2017 and comet 2I/Borisov in 2019.

While 3I/ATLASs visit to our cosmic neighborhood has fueled wild theories that the comet could be extraterrestrial technology or an alien spacecraft, there has been no scientific evidence to support such claims. In Wednesdays briefing, NASA officials said all observations so far have been consistent with what researchers know about comets.

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We certainly havent seen any techno signatures or anything from it that would lead us to believe it was anything other than a comet, said Nicky Fox, associate administrator of NASAs Science Mission Directorate.

Still, the objects interstellar origin means it has intriguing characteristics that could yield new insights into star systems beyond our own, according to Fox.

Its the differences that are so tantalizing for us, she said. It could be from something that existed before our own solar system. That is so cool.

In the weeks ahead, scientists will have more opportunities to study 3I/ATLAS and better characterize its features, including its appearance, speed, chemical makeup and possible place of origin.

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This is a new scientific opportunity, and its a new window into the makeups and histories of other solar systems, said Tom Statler, NASAs lead scientist for solar system small bodies. Were just beginning to learn about these types of objects and figure out what are the right questions we should ask about them.

Observations of comet 3I/ATLAS from Sept. 28 to Oct. 10 from the PUNCH satellites in low-Earth orbit, when the comet was 231 million to 235 million miles away. (NASA / Southwest Research Institute)

But tracing where the comet came from remains difficult, Statler said.

Comet 3I/ATLAS reached its closest point to the sun at the end of October and is now continuing its journey through the inner solar system. Because of its proximity to the sun in recent weeks, it was not visible to ground-based telescopes, but NASA expects the object to emerge into view again on the other side of the sun by early December.

On Dec. 19, 3I/ATLAS will fly by Earth. It does not pose a threat to our planet, according to NASA; the comet will remain at a safe distance of roughly 170 million miles during the rendezvous.

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Statler said the James Webb Space Telescope is expected to observe the comet in December, and ground-based telescopes such as the W.M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii will have forthcoming images of it, as well.

The European Space Agency's ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter image of interstellar comet 3I/ATLAS as it passed close to Mars. (The European Space Agency)

The images that NASA released Wednesday join a growing collection taken by various spacecraft throughout the solar system. The European Space Agency in early October released images of 3I/ATLAS from its ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, which is in orbit around Mars. The photos showed a bright white dot moving against the vast expanse of space.

The probe, jointly operated by ESA and Russias Federal Space Agency, spotted the comet as it buzzed by the red planet. At the time, it was around 18.6 million miles from the ExoMars Trace Gas Orbiter, according to ESA.

NASA is also still processing additional data gathered from its fleet of spacecraft since the beginning of October.

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There will be more to come, Statler said. Not all of the data have been downlinked yet through NASAs Deep Space Network, and there are more observations still in works.

This article was originally published on NBCNews.com
By Will Dunham

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -NASA is set on Wednesday to release new images of an interstellar object called 3I/ATLAS that astronomers have determined is a comet probably even older than our solar system.

3I/ATLAS was first spotted in July by an Asteroid Terrestrial-impact Last Alert System, or ATLAS, telescope located in Rio Hurtado, Chile, and has been tracked by astronomers since then. Its unusual trajectory indicated that it was passing through our solar system from parts unknown.

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NASA said 3I/ATLAS poses no threat to Earth and will get no closer than about 170 million miles (275 million km) to our planet. 3I/ATLAS flew within about 19 million miles (30 million km) of Mars last month.

NASA Associate Administrator Amit Kshatriya and Nicola Fox, associate administrator of NASA's Science Mission Directorate, are among those due to discuss 3I/ATLAS on Wednesday at a briefing in Greenbelt, Maryland, to release the new imagery from telescopes and spacecraft, the U.S. space agency said.

Astronomers have intensively studied 3I/ATLAS since it was first detected.

"This is a comet that formed in another solar system, most likely more than eight billion years ago - which means it is older than our solar system, and the oldest thing we've ever seen close up," University of Oxford astrophysicist Chris Lintott said.

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Our solar system formed roughly 4.5 billion years ago.

3I/ATLAS is only the third interstellar object ever observed by astronomers traveling through the solar system. The others were objects called 1I/'Oumuamua (pronounced oh-MOO-uh-MOO-uh), detected in 2017, and 2I/Borisov, discovered in 2019.

"So far, it seems to be made of the same sort of stuff we see for comets in our solar system - plenty of carbon dioxide and some water, carbon monoxide and other such molecules. We've also seen cyanide - normal for a comet - and lots of nickel, which is a bit surprising but not too unprecedented. We saw similar things in a previous interstellar comet, 2I/Borisov, and in some solar system comets," Lintott said.

3I/ATLAS is now on its way out of the solar system, according to University of Hawaii astronomer Larry Denneau, co-principal investigator for ATLAS. Its closest approach to the sun came in October, and its closest approach to the Earth will come in about a month, Denneau said.

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The ATLAS network is a NASA-funded telescope survey built and operated by the University of Hawaii, with five telescopes around the world that scan the night sky continuously to look for objects that could threaten Earth.

3I/ATLAS has attracted attention because of one scientist's suggestion that it is not a comet but rather alien technology due to its trajectory, composition and other factors. Most experts discount this view.

"Regarding the alien spacecraft hypothesis, it's the usual 'extraordinary claims require extraordinary evidence,'" Denneau said. "All evidence so far shows behavior by an object very similar to a solar system comet. Its motion is explained by the sun's gravity. There is nothing that suggests otherwise."

"It has not slowed down or changed its trajectory in any unusual way. It was behind the sun for a few months, and now that we can see it again it is exactly where it is supposed to be if it were a natural object," Denneau said.

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Lintott said, "The idea that 3I/ATLAS could be an alien spacecraft is simply nonsense. There's nothing about it that suggests such a thing, and you might as well argue that the moon is made of cheese."

(Reporting by Will Dunham)
For years, NASA has monitored a strange anomaly in Earth's magnetic field: a giant region of lower magnetic intensity in the skies, stretching out between South America and southwest Africa.

This vast, developing phenomenon, called the South Atlantic Anomaly, has intrigued and concerned scientists for decades, and perhaps none more so than NASA researchers.

The space agency's satellites and spacecraft are particularly vulnerable to the weakened magnetic field within the anomaly, and the resulting exposure to charged particles from the Sun.

Related: Sunken Continents Near Earth's Core Could Unbalance Our Magnetic Field

Likened by NASA to a 'dent' in Earth's magnetic field, or a kind of 'pothole in space', the South Atlantic Anomaly (SAA) has expanded by around half the size of continental Europe since 2014, while its magnetic intensity weakens, according to the latest data.

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It generally doesn't affect life on Earth, but the same can't be said for orbital spacecraft (including the International Space Station), which pass directly through the anomaly as they loop around the planet in low-Earth orbit.

Watch the following video for a summary:

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During these encounters, the reduced magnetic field strength inside the anomaly means technological systems onboard satellites can short-circuit and malfunction if they become struck by high-energy protons emanating from the Sun.

These random hits may usually only produce low-level glitches, but they do carry the risk of causing significant data loss, or even permanent damage to key components  threats obliging satellite operators to routinely shut down spacecraft systems before spacecraft enter the anomaly zone.

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Mitigating those hazards in space is one reason NASA is tracking the SAA; another is that the mystery of the anomaly represents a great opportunity to investigate a complex and difficult-to-understand phenomenon, and NASA's broad resources and research groups are uniquely well-appointed to study the occurrence.

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"The magnetic field is actually a superposition of fields from many current sources," geophysicist Terry Sabaka from NASA's Goddard Space Flight Center explained in 2020.

The primary source is considered to be a swirling ocean of molten iron inside Earth's outer core, thousands of kilometers below the ground. The movement of that mass generates electrical currents that create Earth's magnetic field, but not necessarily uniformly, it seems.

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A huge reservoir of dense rock called the African Large Low Shear Velocity Province, located about 2,900 kilometers (1,800 miles) below the African continent, is thought to disturb the field's generation, resulting in the dramatic weakening effect  which is aided by the tilt of the planet's magnetic axis.

"The observed SAA can be also interpreted as a consequence of weakening dominance of the dipole field in the region," said NASA Goddard geophysicist and mathematician Weijia Kuang in 2020.

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"More specifically, a localized field with reversed polarity grows strongly in the SAA region, thus making the field intensity very weak, weaker than that of the surrounding regions."

Satellite data suggesting the SAA is dividing. (Division of Geomagnetism, DTU Space)

While there's much scientists still don't fully understand about the anomaly and its implications, new insights are continually shedding light on this strange phenomenon.

For example, one study led by NASA heliophysicist Ashley Greeley in 2016 revealed the SAA slowly drifts around, which was confirmed by subsequent tracking from CubeSats in research published in 2021.

It's not just moving, however. Even more remarkably, the phenomenon seems to be in the process of splitting, with researchers in 2020 discovering that the SAA appeared to be dividing into two distinct cells, each representing a separate center of minimum magnetic intensity within the greater anomaly.

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Just what that means for the future of the SAA remains unknown, but there's evidence to suggest that the anomaly is not a new appearance.

A study published in July 2020 indicated the phenomenon is not a freak event of recent times, but a recurrent magnetic event that may have affected Earth since as far back as 11 million years ago.

If so, that could signal that the South Atlantic Anomaly is not a trigger or precursor to the entire planet's magnetic field flipping, which is something that actually happens, if not for hundreds of thousands of years at a time.

Related: The Sound of Earth's Flipping Magnetic Field Is an Unnerving Horror

A study published in 2024 found the SAA also has an impact on auroras seen on Earth.

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And just last month, ESA's Swarm mission  a trio of satellites working together to map the geomagnetic field  revealed new complexities.

"It's changing differently towards Africa than it is near South America," says geophysicist Chris Finlay of the Technical University of Denmark. "There's something special happening in this region that is causing the field to weaken in a more intense way."

Obviously, huge questions remain, but with so much going on with this vast magnetic oddity, it's good to know the world's most powerful space agency is watching closely.

"Even though the SAA is slow-moving, it is going through some change in morphology, so it's also important that we keep observing it by having continued missions," said Sabaka.

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"Because that's what helps us make models and predictions."

An earlier version of this article was published in August 2020.

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Superintendent Aaron Plas of Bennington Public Schools, State Sen. Eliot Bostar of Lincoln, former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of the Elkhorn area, Superintendent John Schwartz of Millard Public Schools and Lakeview Community School Board President Keith Runge, from left, meet during the inaugural meeting of the Nebraska School Financing Review Commission. Aug. 12, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  Nebraskas School Financing Review Commission finished the first phase of its task to recommend ways to improve the states school funding system, but its next steps may prove more challenging.

At its fourth meeting Tuesday, commission members approved a report that will be presented to the Nebraska Legislature on or before Dec. 1.

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The report shared preliminary findings the commission made about the current landscape of K-12 education funding in Nebraska and gave a glimpse into what the commission will examine over the next year.

(Were putting) something together as a point to discuss, a point to argue from, today, so were not starting from scratch, said Brian Maher, Nebraskas education commissioner who chairs the commission.

The commission was established earlier this year through the passage of Legislative Bill 303 from State Sen. Jana Hughes of Seward, who now serves on the commission as a non-voting member. It includes 18 members, the majority of which are school administrators and current or former state legislators.

Under Hughes law, the new commission has no expiration date.

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The first meeting was in August, and since then members have been working to build a first report ahead of the Dec. 1 deadline. The next report wont be due until Nov. 1, 2026, with annual reports slated to continue coming each November after.

Preliminary findings

The reports central finding covers the shifting balance of funding sources going to Nebraskas school districts. The state currently carries the majority of school funding, at 52.6%, while local and county spending on schools has fallen to about 38%  a reversal from the previous five years, when local property taxes accounted for the majority of support.

According to data the Nebraska Department of Education shared in September, public schools accounted for about $5.3 billion in estimated spending in the 2024-25 fiscal year, combining state, federal, county and local revenues.

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The report notes that the shift to focus more on state aid for schools resembles what neighboring states have done in recent years. Liz Standish, a commission member and associate superintendent for Lincoln Public Schools, said she expects this change will improve Nebraskas rankings with other states in terms of school funding.

The new Nebraska School Financing Review Commission receives a briefing on the various components that make up the states mainline school funding formula under the Tax Equity and Educational Opportunity Support Act, better known as TEEOSA. Sept. 22, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Much of this shift can be attributed to recent policy changes over the last five years. In 2023, lawmakers approved $1,500 in per-pupil foundation state aid to schools, and doubled the states special education reimbursements from 40% to 80% of allowable expenditures.

Despite this, the report notes that there are still significant differences among general fund levies across Nebraskas 244 school districts, and several commission members expressed concerns with how much some districts spend. Hughes has said one of her goals is to bring statewide levy rates closer together.

Next steps

The report hints at what the commission will focus on in the second phase of research. Ideas include recommending a target for the proportion of state aid going to schools, assessing key aspects of Nebraskas current school funding formula and ensuring that existing state aid to schools doesnt erode over time.

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Former State Treasurer Tom Briese, who serves on the commission, suggested the report list some of the hard conversations he expects in phase two. Some of the topics he listed were analyzing district spending  including administrative costs, spending caps and the adequacy of spending compared to district outcomes  as well as considering new revenue sources for schools and evaluating the efficacy of past legislative proposals.

While hearing Brieses suggestions initially made Maher bristle as a former superintendent, he said he realized that his reservations gave the commission even more reason to have those discussions, rather than shy away from them. Standish requested that the list of subjects be kept neutral and that commission members shouldnt have pre-formed opinions on any of the topics.

Former State Sen. Lou Ann Linehan of Elkhorn, another member of the commission, backed Brieses suggestion, saying that identifying the challenges ahead for the commission will increase the chances the Legislature takes them seriously.

If you dont put down that its going to be hard and what were going to discuss, we wont be taken seriously by the Legislature, Linehan said. Because if we dont say were going to look at these things, and were going to have  discussions, then what are we doing?

Maher will provide the Legislatures Education Committee with an update Thursday about the commissions progress.

Reporter Zach Wendling contributed to this report.

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The Netherlands has suspended its proposed takeover of Chinese-owned chip maker Nexperia in a sign of "good will" towards Beijing, Dutch Economy Minister Vincent Karremans said Wednesday.

The dispute erupted in September when the Dutch government effectively took control of Nexperia, which is based in the Netherlands but whose parent company is China's Wingtech.

China responded by banning re-exports of the firm's chips, triggering warnings from automakers of production problems as the components are critical to onboard electronics.

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But Beijing announced over the weekend it would exempt some chips from the export ban, reportedly part of a trade deal agreed by President Xi Jinping and his US counterpart Donald Trump.

On Wednesday, Karremans said that "in light of recent developments, I consider it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act regarding Nexperia".

"We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world," he said.

The takeover has been suspended rather than cancelled, and the minister can reinstate the measure later.

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- National security -

Karremans said the decision had been made "in close consultation with our European and international partners" and in the wake of "constructive meetings with the Chinese authorities".

"We see this as a show of good will. We will continue to engage in constructive dialogue with the Chinese authorities in the period ahead," he said.

The Netherlands cited national security concerns and poor management when it moved to take control of Nexperia, which was once part of Dutch electronics giant Philips but bought out by Wingtech in 2018.

The Nexperia case was the first time the Dutch had invoked the Goods Availability Act, with the stated reason being that poor management could jeopardise the chip supply chain in Europe.

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An Amsterdam corporate court subsequently ordered the suspension of Nexperia's chief executive Zhang Xuezheng, citing poor leadership and poor preparation for incoming US trade restrictions.

Nexperia is no stranger to regulatory concerns in the west.

Three years ago, Britain blocked the company from buying its main semiconductor manufacturer, Newport Wafer Fab, following a "detailed national security assessment".

And the United States put Wingtech on one of its "entity lists" last December, meaning the government believed it was acting against US national security and foreign policy interests.

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A New Hampshire man is accused of trying to escape a traffic stop before crashing into a New Hampton home Tuesday afternoon.

Troopers attempted to stop a 2013 Ford Taurus being driven by 19-year-old Patrick Cameron Hamel around 12:45 p.m. in Meredith on Tuesday for a tinted windows violation when the teen allegedly sped away, according to New Hampshire State Police

State Police say Hamel illegally passed several cars at a high rate of speed.

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Hamel eventually lost control of the Taurus and crashed into an unoccupied home on Shoreline Drive in New Hampton, significantly damaging the home and vehicle, police say.

Hamel was arrested and transported to the New Hampton Police Department for booking and processing.

He is charged with reckless conduct with a deadly weapon, reckless operation, conduct after an accident, endangering the welfare of a child, criminal restraint, and disobeying a police officer.

Hamel is scheduled to appear in Laconia District Court on Wednesday.

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YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (MyValleyTributes)  Niki Marie Yonnotti, 34, passed away Friday afternoon, November 14, 2025.

She was born on January 11, 1991, in Youngstown, a daughter of David A. and Barb J. Good Yonnotti, Sr.

Find obituaries from your high school

Niki was a 2009 Austintown Fitch High School graduate.

She enjoyed watching movies, running, playing The Sims and was looking forward to reaching her ten-year sobriety milestone.

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Along with her mother and grandmother, Patricia Yonnotti; Niki leaves to cherish her memory her brothers, David Yonotti, Jr., Anthony (Devon Klingensmith) Yonnotti and Steven Yonnotti; sister, Briana Yonnotti and special friends, Betsy and Tom Doerr.

Family and friends may call from 4:00  7:00 p.m., Thursday, November 20, 2025, at the Fox Funeral Home.

Prayers will be at 9:15 a.m., Friday, November 21, 2025, at the Fox Funeral Home, followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 10:00 a.m., celebrated by Fr. John Rovnak at the Cathedral of St. Columba, 154 W. Wood Street in Youngstown.

She will be laid to rest with her father at Forest Lawn Memorial Park.

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Arrangements have been entrusted to the Edward J. Fox & Sons Funeral Home, 4700 Market St. Boardman.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Niki Marie Yonnotti, please visit our floral store.

A television tribute will air Wednesday, November 19 at the following approximate times: 5:17 a.m. on WKBN, 8:39 a.m. on FOX, 5:19 p.m. on WYTV and 6:37 p.m. on MyYTV. Video will be posted here the day of airing.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKBN.com.
At least 26 people have been killed including three children in a Russian missile and drone attack that hit two blocks of flats in the western city of Ternopil, Ukrainian officials say.

They say another 93 people were wounded, 18 of them children, in the strike early on Wednesday - one of the deadliest in the region since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022.

Ukraine's air force later said Russian X-101 cruise missiles had hit the residential flats.

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The neighbouring Lviv and Ivano-Frankivsk regions were also struck, and a drone attack on three districts of the north-eastern city of Kharkiv wounded more than 30 people. Photos posted online showed buildings and cars ablaze.

Ukraine's air force said it had shot down 442 of 476 drones and 41 of 48 missiles launched by Russia, including 10 missiles destroyed by F-16 and Mirage 2000 fighter jets supplied to Kyiv by its Western allies.

But in a reference to how stretched Ukraine's air defences currently are, the air force pleaded for "the uninterrupted and timely supply of aviation weapons from Western partners".

Ternopil, a city closer to the Polish border than the capital Kyiv, has rarely faced attacks since the full-scale invasion. Social media footage of this strike shows missiles shooting across the sky towards the city, though very little sign of air defences reacting from the ground.

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The devastation caused by the Russian strikes on Ternopil soon became clear. A video shared by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky showed one of the blocks of flats had completely caved in. Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said it had been destroyed between the third and ninth floors.

The attack had caused "significant destruction", said Zelensky, and many victims were reported to be in the rubble. Plumes of smoke poured from windows and small fires burned outside the tenement.

A giant smoke cloud rose in the distance behind the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Ternopil, as sirens blared throughout the city.

With limited defence systems, and a vast country to defend every night, no matter how effective Ukraine becomes at shooting down Russian missiles and drones, there is always a risk some will get through  to devastating effect, as happened in Ternopil.

Rescuers workers scoured the wreckage of the site hours after the attack [@zinkevich_igor]

Energy facilities, transport and civil infrastructure were damaged elsewhere in western Ukraine.

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The energy sector came under attack in Ivano-Frankivsk region where two of the three people reported wounded were children.

The head of Lviv region said an energy facility had been struck.

Russia has recently upped its attacks on Ukraine's energy grid - as the fourth winter of the war approaches - hoping to damage morale as well as logistics and Ukraine's own defence industry.

Electrical supplies are already being rationed and, after the latest attacks, the energy ministry announced more power cuts across the country.

Russia's defence ministry said it had carried out its "massive strike using long-range precision weapons", claiming it had targeted Ukraine's "military-industrial complex and energy sector" in response to Ukrainian attacks on "civilian targets".

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Ukraine's military said on Tuesday it had fired US-supplied longer-range Atacms missiles at military targets inside Russia, the first time they had admitted using Atacms on Russian soil.

Russia's defence ministry accused Ukraine of firing four of the missiles at the southern city of Voronezh but said they had all been shot down by air defences.

Meanwhile, Zelensky has travelled to the Turkish capital Ankara, in an attempt to revive a US bid to end the war. He held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan amid reports President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff has been working on a plan with Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev.

The Kremlin said earlier that no Russian representative would be joining the talks in Ankara.

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Russian President Vladimir Putin's spokesman appeared to dismiss US media reports that Washington and Moscow had been working on a peace plan for Ukraine - without any involvement of Kyiv and its European allies.

"In this case, we have no additional innovations to what we call 'the spirit of Anchorage'," Dmitry Peskov told Russia's state-run media, referring to the August summit between Putin and Trump in the US state Alaska.

Any agreements reached during the one-day meeting have not been made public.

Peskov's comments came as Zelensky was reportedly due to meet two top US army officials in Kyiv on Thursday. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and Army Chief of Staff General Randy George are the most senior US military officials to visit the Ukrainian capital since President Donald Trump took office, Reuters reports.

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In a separate development, Romania's defence ministry said a Russian drone had flown about 8km (5 miles) through its airspace in the early hours of Wednesday. The drone then crossed into Ukraine and Moldova before returning to Romania, it said.

Romanian and German air force planes were scrambled in response to the incursion and the defence ministry said it was unclear where the drone had come down.

Poland also deployed jets early on Wednesday and temporarily closed two airports in the southeast in response to the strikes in western Ukraine.

As the fourth anniversary of the start of Russia's full-scale invasion approaches next February, Moscow and Kyiv remain fundamentally opposed in their views of how to end the war.

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Ukraine and its Western allies, including the US, have called for an immediate ceasefire along the vast front line  but Russia has repeatedly ruled that out, repeating demands that Ukraine says amount to its de facto capitulation.

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow's pre-conditions for a peace deal - including tough curbs on the size of Ukraine's military and the country's neutrality - had not changed since Putin laid them out two months before the full-scale invasion.
Morgan Stanley has sold $104 million in complex structured notes tied to BlackRocks iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT), according to data from Structured Products Intelligence, part of WSD.

BlackRocks iShares Bitcoin Trust (IBIT) is a spot Bitcoin exchange-traded fund (ETF) that holds BTC directly and allows investors to gain exposure to the cryptocurrency through a traditional, regulated market vehicle.

This marks one of Wall Streets strongest pushes yet to channel Bitcoin (BTC) exposure into a controlled, risk-defined product for wealthy clients, as reported by Bloomberg.

More News:

The two-year note, formally known as dual directional autocallable trigger plus, offers enhanced payouts if IBIT stays flat or rises, and limited gains even if the ETF declines by less than 25%. If the ETF drops below that threshold, however, investors shoulder losses in full, according to a regulatory filing.

Morgan Stanleys note includes an autocall function: If IBIT closes at or above its initial level after one year, the bank returns principal plus roughly 28%. If the ETF is below its start level but still above 75%, the note continues to maturity with potential gains up to 25%. A breach below that 75% barrier exposes investors to full losses, mirroring IBITs downside.

The Morgan Stanley headquarters in New York, US, Monday, (Photographer: Michael Nagle/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Institutions look for risk-managed Bitcoin exposure

Launched in early 2024, IBIT rapidly became the largest Bitcoin ETF in the US, accumulating tens of billions of dollars in assets as institutions and retail investors sought a simpler way to access the asset without managing private keys or navigating crypto-native platforms.

Because IBIT trades like a standard equity security, it provides intraday liquidity, clearer tax treatment, and a custodied structure that large banks can incorporate into risk models.

Related: iBit Bitcoin ETF Options Trading: A Game-Changer for the Crypto Market

Tiago Fernandes, head of data and platform at WSD, said, structured products are becoming the safest way for mainstream investors to touch crypto-level volatility without taking crypto-level risk.

The notes are issued as Bitcoin has fallen nearly 30% from its recent peak. On Nov. 18, the crypto experienced a seven-month low of $89,393 after struggling to recover since October's blood bath.

At the time of writing, Bitcoin was trading 0.9% higher at $93,275.65, as per CoinGecko.

Related: Morgan Stanley Clients Hold Nearly $30M In Bitcoin Fund

This story was originally reported by TheStreet on Nov 18, 2025, where it first appeared in the Trading News & Analysis section. Add TheStreet as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz will not apologize for his comments about Belem, the Amazonian city hosting the UN Climate Change Conference (COP30) summit.

Merz's spokesman Stefan Kornelius attempted to play down the controversy on Wednesday after a severe backlash in Brazil, with Brazilian media and politicians voicing their outrage over the chancellor's remarks.

The poor city in the northern state of Para was chosen as host city by Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva to reflect the Amazon's importance in global climate policy.

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Merz travelled to Belem for a summit two weeks ago ahead of the negotiations. On his return to Berlin, Merz said he had asked journalists who accompanied him whether any of them wanted to stay in the city.

"No one raised their hand," Merz said. He argued that the reporters were "happy" to return to Germany, which he described as "one of the most beautiful countries in the world."

In response, Lula said Merz should have gone to a bar in Belem, danced and tried out the local cuisine.

"Then he would have realized that Berlin does not even offer him 10% of the quality that the state of Para and the city of Belem provide," Lula charged.

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Other Brazilian politicians were not so restrained. Eduardo Paes, the mayor of Rio de Janeiro, reportedly called Merz a "son of Hitler" and a "Nazi" in a post on X that he later deleted.

The Diario do Centro do Mundo news portal wrote of an "outrageous comparison," while Belem's mayor described Merz's remarks as "unfortunate, arrogant and biased."

Kornelius sought to calm tensions on Wednesday, rejecting the view that Merz expressed "displeasure" or "disgust" about the city.

For the German chancellor to "establish a slight hierarchy" in terms of the world's most beautiful countries is not reprehensible, the spokesman insisted.

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However, the remarks could overshadow Merz's pledge that Germany will contribute to Lula's landmark new rainforest fund, the Tropical Forests Forever Facility (TFFF).

German opposition unimpressed

German opposition parties were also unimpressed by Merz's remarks.

"One is beginning to wonder whether the chancellor can still make an appearance anywhere without putting Germany in a difficult position," said Katharina Droge from the Greens. "The image the chancellor presented during his trip to Brazil was disastrous: tactless in foreign policy, unambitious in climate policy and simply disrespectful towards Brazil."

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Violetta Bock, from The Left, said "Germany is embarrassing itself on the international stage" and called on the chancellor to apologize. "Merz's statements about Brazil are disrespectful, condescending and prejudiced," she said.

Frustration also emerged within Merz's coalition partners in the Social Democratic Party (SPD).

During a visit to Shanghai on Wednesday, Vice Chancellor Lars Klingbeil admitted that the remarks caused "irritation," even as he maintained that "the chancellor's visit to Belem was a very successful one."

SPD lawmaker Isabel Cademartori, meanwhile, said the comments play into "the stereotype of the 'arrogant German.'"

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Environment Minister Carsten Schneider, also from the SPD, took a different tune, expressly praising Belem as a "great city.".

"I saw a tremendous amount of commitment, wonderful people, but also a lot of poverty," said the minister, who is involved in the ongoing climate negotiations. "This place not only highlights the outstanding importance of rainforests, it also encourages the international community to consider social issues and climate issues together."
UNITED NATIONS (AP)  President Donald Trumps nominee to be U.S. deputy ambassador to the United Nations urged bold reform of what she called the bloated, unfocused and ineffective global organization during her confirmation hearing Wednesday.

Tammy Bruce told the Senate Foreign Relations Committee that the United Nations has lost the confidence of the American people and its time for its 193 member nations to return to its founding mission  to maintain international peace and security.

I believe the U.N. is important and must be revitalized so it can continue to serve the people of the United States and the people of the world, the former State Department spokesperson said.

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Bruce, a former Fox News Channel contributor, said countries working together can facilitate peace as the U.N. Security Council did this week in endorsing Trumps plan for Gaza following two years of war.

Sen. James Risch, the committee chairman, said he is no fan of the U.N. and asked Bruce how she could help course correct the U.N. from the horrible antisemitic course it is on if confirmed.

Bruce said the Trump administration cannot and will not support the proliferation of divisive concepts like DEI and gender ideology as well as a continuation of hateful anti-Israel bias.

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, the ranking Democrat, said the U.S. failure to pay its U.N. dues in full is weakening peacekeeping when global stability is already under strain and asked Bruce how she would address this risk to American interests if confirmed.

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Bruce said she is committed to ensuring U.S. funding to the U.N. advances policies and priorities that strictly add value to American taxpayers and American foreign policy interests.

Trump appointed Bruce as deputy representative to the U.N. in August after roughly six months at the State Department. She has been working at the U.S. mission to the U.N. as a public delegate and will replace deputy ambassador Dorothy Shea, a career diplomat, if confirmed by the Senate.
It looks like President Donald Trump is poised to return to his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach for his annual Thanksgiving visit.

And if that proves to be the case, South Ocean Boulevard near Mar-a-Lago would close to through-traffic  effectively cutting the town in two during much of Thanksgiving week  while the president is in residence at Mar-a-Lago.

A set of temporary flight restrictions of the level issued for presidential travel are expected Nov. 25-30 for airspace that includes Mar-a-Lago, according to a notice issued Nov. 17 by the Boca Raton Airport Authority.

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The authoritys notice emailed to tenants included the reminder that temporary flight restrictions are subject to last-minute changes.

While the notice does not mention Trump by name, such notices have become early indicators of the presidents travel plans.

The five-day stretch in Palm Beach would include the shutdown of South Ocean Boulevard between Southern Boulevard and the curve at South County Road, a security closure that has been put in place many times during the two Trump administrations.

The trip would be the president's 15th visit to the island since he took office for his second term in the White House on Jan. 20. His most recent trip to Palm Beach was Nov. 14-16.

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Thanksgiving traditionally marks the kickoff to the social season in Palm Beach.

Over the years, Trump has favored spending Thanksgiving with his family at Mar-a-Lago, as opposed to traveling to his other properties.

More: A look back at Trump's Thanksgiving visits to Palm Beach County when he was president

A set of presidential-level flight restrictions over Mar-a-Lago for a presumptive visit from Trump would add an additional layer to the recently issued flight restrictions over the president's permanent residence that are in place whether or not he is home.

When Trump is in Palm Beach, the FAA issues temporary flight restrictions that include a a radius of 10 nautical miles where most flights are banned, and a ring of 30 nautical miles where more movement is allowed. The Boca Raton Airport is within the 30-nautical-mile ring.

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Kristina Webb is a reporter for Palm Beach Daily News, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach her at kwebb@pbdailynews.com. Subscribe today to support our journalism.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Notice indicates Trump may return to Palm Beach for Thanksgiving
Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City, speaking. Oct. 5, 2023. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

LINCOLN  University of Nebraska regents are weighing in after the University of Nebraska-Lincoln Faculty Senate, in an historic vote, expressed no confidence in their chancellor.

UNL Chancellor Rodney Bennett came to the university in July 2023 for an initial three-year contract, which would expire June 30, unless extended. He is currently leading a plan to cut $27.5 million from UNLs budget.

Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City, center, is flanked by Chancellor Rodney Bennett and Mike Zeleny, then-vice chancellor for business and finance, both at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Zeleny left UNL in September 2025. April 26, 2024. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

NU Regent Kathy Wilmot of Beaver City, who represents a sprawling 45-county district in western Nebraska, said in a statement Wednesday that she fully supports Bennett and his budget actions.

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She said his decisions consider available resources and are informed by institutional data meant to protect the future of UNL.

Wilmot said she understands peoples lives and careers will be changed by the cuts. But she cautioned that UNL continuing to dip into budget reserves has contributed to current problems. She joined the regents in 2023 and has frequently focused attention on taxpayers before board votes.

It is understandable individuals have internalized the pain felt by the proposed cuts, Wilmot said in an email. However, personal attacks are harmful to the university that we all love. I fully support Doctor Bennett and his efforts to ensure the fiscal viability and future of UNL.

Budget problem hasnt changed

The UNL Faculty Senate voted 60-14 on Tuesday to express no confidence in Bennetts performance and ask that the eight elected regents and NU President Jeffrey Gold consider firing Bennett or negotiating his removal. It was the first such resolution to pass in UNLs nearly 157-year history.

Regent Paul Kenney of Amherst, chair of the NU Board of Regents. April 23, 2025. (Zach Wendling/Nebraska Examiner)

Reached just after the Faculty Senate vote on Tuesday, Regent Paul Kenney of Amherst, chair of the NU Board of Regents, said he knew faculty were discussing a no-confidence vote, and what they do is 100% their opinion.

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Kenney said he doesnt think the rebuke of Bennett changes how hell approach budget-related votes come Dec. 5, when regents will consider $6.74 million in Bennett-proposed academic program eliminations

We were short a lot of money to start with, Kenney said. That hasnt changed.

A spokesperson for Dr. Gold and the NU system on Tuesday said faculty-shared governance is one of many voices in higher education and that NU values their input at UNL.

However, ultimate decisions rest with the Board of Regents, the spokesperson said in a statement.

Regent Tim Clare of Lincoln declined to comment Tuesday. The five other elected regents did not respond to Examiner calls seeking comment.

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The Examiner on Wednesday also reached out to Pillen, UNL Student Regent Libby Wilkins and the UNL Staff Senate. Student representatives on the NU Board of Regents can cast nonbinding votes on board action. Faculty serve in advisory roles but their representatives cannot cast symbolic votes. Staff have no role in regents meetings.

Bennett desired contract extension

When Bennett was hired in 2023, regents made no comments on his hiring at that summer meeting. He became UNLs 21st chancellor and is the first person of color to lead UNL.

Bennett, in October, told the Examiner he had no idea if or when a vote extending his contract might come.

But I sure hope it comes quickly, because I love being here, love being a part of the community, and clearly we have important work yet to do, Bennett said Oct. 5.

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That same day, Gold said he favored extending Bennetts contract but said it was up to the regents. Gold previously served as chancellor of the University of Medical Center for 10 years, a campus that will likely soon merge with UNL for accreditation and research reporting purposes as UNL continues to seek readmittance to the prestigious Association of American Universities.

Its unclear if the merger would bring other changes to NU. For example, UNMC has been led by an interim chancellor since Gold became president in July 2024. The two campuses are also led by the same business and finance leader, Anne Barnes, who concurrently is a member of Golds cabinet.

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A man accused of killing his 13-year-old daughter in Toledo will only be allowed to view childrens service records under his attorneys supervision.

A Lucas County judge has ordered that the sensitive childrens services records requested by Darnell Jones would only be turned over to his attorney and kept out of his reach, according to our CBS affiliate, WTOL.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WHIO-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

News Center 7 previously reported, Jones is accused of dragging 13-year-old KeiMani Latigue to a vacant house and killing her.

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The judge ruled that the documents that contain private details of the victims and witnesses will be marked as council only.

The court said the protective order is designed to balance Jones right to prepare a defense while safeguarding the personal information of the parties involved.

At least 243 pieces of evidence have been handed over to the defense. Items include photos, video collections, interviews, body-worn cameras, and multiple police and family assessment reports.

Jones faces charges that include rape, murder, and kidnapping.

He pleaded not guilty, but if Jones is found guilty, he faces the death penalty.

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KeiMani was reported missing in March and was found six days later at a blighted home in East Toledo.

Her death was ruled a homicide by the Lucas County Coroners Office due to the deep cuts to her neck.

Children services confirmed they visited KeiManis home twice in December of 2023 and March of 2024 over concerns that she was being abused.

KeiMani was never removed from her home, but her grandmother was instructed on appropriate discipline.

Jones trial is expected to begin in April.

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State Sen. Terry Johnson, R-McDermott, during an Ohio Senate session in the Senate Chamber at the Statehouse in Columbus, Ohio. (Photo by Graham Stokes for Ohio Capital Journal. Republish photo only with original story.)

An Ohio senator wants to place new limits on the scope and duration of post-employment noncompete contracts for certain health care workers.

The agreements are commonplace in several industries, but state Sen. Terry Johnson, R-McDermott, says they can be particularly onerous in the health care field.

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In January of 2023, the Federal Trade Commission introduced a proposed rule banning all noncompete contracts nationwide.

Commissioners issued the final rule in April last year and courts put it on hold that August.

Two months ago, the Trump administration Federal Trade Commission formally announced it was abandoning the rule.

In committee, Johnson explained he was working on a bill limiting noncompete contracts for physicians before the federal commission acted.

Its apparent to me that the only way to resolve the situation regarding our health care workers will not be from the federal government, but at the state level, he said.

The proposal, Ohio Senate Bill 301, limits noncompete contracts to six months and 15 miles.

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Those protections apply to physicians, physician assistants, and advanced practice registered nurses working at nonprofit hospitals.

Noncompete agreements are inherently anti free-enterprise and impede an individuals ability to earn a living as he or she so chooses, Johnson said.

In fact, its not uncommon for some of these restrictive employment clauses to stipulate a radius of up to 50 miles. The most onerous Ive seen in the state of Ohio is 70 miles.

Johnsons bill also specifies that the 15-mile radius only applies to the physical location where a worker is employed.

If you have a large health care organization that has places all over Ohio, well, every place they have, that restricted covenant applies to, Johnson said. So, you cant practice in Ohio anymore.

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Johnson stressed that his proposal strikes a fine middle ground  maintaining hospitals ability to impose some staffing restrictions but placing limits on their extent.

Thirty-four other states, he noted, have approved some kind of noncompete limitation in their state laws.

Three neighboring states, Pennsylvania, Indiana, and Kentucky, have noncompete restrictions aimed specifically at the medical field.

State Sen. Bill DeMora, D-Columbus, welcomed the idea, but asked why Johnson didnt go further.

Why not include all nurses or for-profit hospitals, he asked.

Because I do agree with you, DeMora said, that especially in these rural communities, you get a noncompete, and youd have to move all the way out of move out of town, 60 miles away, or youre stuck working a job you dont want to work at.

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Johnson agreed that noncompete agreements can create a terrible situation for workers who have to uproot their life to change jobs but didnt embrace a more broadly written bill.

He explained the current bill is already an expansion on an earlier version that only applied to physicians.

You know, certainly someone could come up with a bill like that, he told DeMora, and and I might even support it, but Im limiting this to professionals.

Someone could write a more expansive bill  DeMora himself, for instance.

Ohio Senate Bill 11, a measure hes co-sponsoring with state Sen. Louis Blessing, R-Colerain Twp., would prohibit all noncompete contracts going forward.

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That measure is currently stuck in the Senate Judiciary Committee and hasnt had a hearing since March of this year.

Follow Ohio Capital Journal Reporter Nick Evans on X or on Bluesky.

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A measure that includes the Ten Commandments in a list of historical documents was passed in the Ohio Senate on Wednesday. Ohios public schools will be required to display at least some of the documents on the list in each classroom of each school, according to Ohio Senate Bill 34.

The bill passed 23-10 Wednesday evening.

Other documents on the list include the U.S. Constitution, the Articles of Confederation, the Bill of Rights, the Declaration of Independence, the Northwest Ordinance, the Magna Carta, and the mottos for Ohio and the United States.

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Democrats in the Senate took issue with the bill, saying it went against the wishes of the founders not only in allowing the display of a religious text in public schools, but also in singling out one religious text over others.

The founders valued religion and morality, but they didnt see them as necessitating the display of them  in public institutions, said Senate Minority Leader Nickie Antonio in a floor speech on Wednesday night.

She also pointed to an ongoing legal battle in Texas where a federal judge on Tuesday ordered some schools to remove Ten Commandments displays from classrooms, after parents claimed a violation of their constitutional rights to religious freedom.

Bill sponsor state Sen. Terry Johnson, R-McDermott, said in an earlier committee hearing on the bill that students would see documents that have served as the backbone of our legal and moral traditions as a people.

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In Tuesdays hearing of the Senate Education Committee chair Sen. Andrew Brenner, R-Delaware, doubled down on that argument after the leading Democrat on the committee, Sen. Catherine Ingram, introduced an amendment to remove the Ten Commandments as one of the allowed documents in the bill.

I personally dont understand the reason for (removing the document), because many of our founders in fact relied on the Ten Commandments, Brenner said, adding that there were other influences there that were brought in using the principles of the Ten Commandments.

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Ingram said the text shouldnt be included for a host of reasons, most significantly that the document is not a founding document, no matter its impact on the state and national founders.

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When you start talking about the founding documents, the Ten Commandments may have been, when you went to church, you went home and you did those things with your own religious beliefs, Ingram said.

But that is not considered a founding document, despite the fact that (John) Adams or whomever used that for their own rationale as to what their beliefs were.

She pointed to testimony against the inclusion of the Ten Commandments that has come in the months since the measure was introduced.

Rabbi Megan Doherty, of the National Council of Jewish Women, testified against the bill in March, saying treating this sacred scripture as just another item up on the wall in the classroom of a secular school, as S.B. 34 would, demeans and trivializes a text that is holy to many and will inevitably exclude students of minority faiths.

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Dr. Christina Collins, executive director of advocacy group Honesty for Ohio Education, submitted testimony on Tuesday, opposing the bill as well.

She said it is not responding to any demonstrated problem.

While the Ten Commandments hold deep personal significance for many individuals and faith traditions, their placement in public classrooms crosses a constitutional boundary, Collins wrote.

Public schools must never be pressured, directly or indirectly, into religious endorsement or indoctrination.

The bill has the support of D.C.-based evangelical non-profit The Family Research Council, The Christian Business Partnership, and the Ohio Christian Alliance, all of whom previously submitted testimony approving of the bill.

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Brenner said the Ten Commandments is just one of the documents on the list, and may not be chosen by any school districts to be one of the documents displayed in classrooms.

Ingram said by including the religious text as if it were a historical document, here again, we are doing that indoctrination that we cry so much about.

The attempt to remove the Ten Commandments from the list was tabled along party lines in the committee, as was another effort by Ingram to amend the bill.

The other amendment would have required local school boards to have three public hearings on the selection of the documents, to allow public input before the decision is made, she said.

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Brenner said local school boards can decide for themselves if theyd like public input.

This is going to go to the local school boards anyway, theyre going to be able to determine which ones are going to be on display, Brenner said. Its up to those local school boards how they want to conduct it.

The bill will now moves on to the Ohio House for consideration.

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Results of the annual Oklahoma City resident survey show that most people living within the city are consistently happy with the direction the city is moving.

For a 2025 survey administered to 1,283 random households, 72% of respondents believe the city is moving in the right direction, up three percentage points from last year's survey. That's also nearly 24 points higher than the national average and 30 points higher than the average for large communities, according to ETC Institute, the Kansas-based research firm that has conducted the survey the past two decades.

According to the survey, 80% of respondents said they were satisfied overall with Oklahoma City as a place to live. The overall quality of services provided by the city rated 19 points above the average for large communities and nearly 12 points above the national average.

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For 2025, Oklahoma City ranked 30% above the national average as a place to live, 16% above as a place to work and 14% above as a place to retire. As a place to visit, the city rated nearly 13% above the national average, and as a place to raise children, Oklahoma City rated 5% above the national average.

The Devon tower is pictured in downtown iOklahoma City, Friday, July 25, 2025.

More: The annual resident survey for OKC is in. What stayed the same? What should improve?

"For the most part, the trends are pretty much the same compared to a year ago," said ETC Institute CEO Chris Tatham as he presented the survey results Tuesday, Nov. 18, to the Oklahoma City Council. "And I think in an area where a lot of communities are really struggling to provide high quality services, consistency is one of the marks of excellence."

Among 89 areas evaluated in both 2024 and 2025, seven categories saw increases by more than three percentage points. Helpfulness of city staff overall increased most  by seven percentage points  while specific areas like the city's communication with the public and the quality of its downtown also maintained positive gains.

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But notable decreases in satisfaction from last year included city code enforcement, wastewater services, and  unsurprisingly  the condition of the city's streets.

"With streets, I think the residents forgive you on that, because this has been rated below the national average for a long time, but it doesn't seem to hurt their perception of leadership with the direction that the city's going," Tatham said. "I think it's your customer service and other things that overcome some of the challenges you've had with streets."

Public Eye: Why these 87-year-old roads are still waiting to be resurfaced

A yearly survey of Oklahoma City by Kansas-based ETC Institute showed residents were mostly satisfied with the direction of OKC, continuing a largely positive trend of recent years. *Provided/ETC Institute

This year, 87% OKC respondents who said they'd interacted with police also said they had been treated fairly by an officer, according to ETC Institute. That's 21 points above the average for police services satisfaction in large U.S. cities, Tatham said.

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People's feelings of safety in the city improved four percentage points from last year, but it was still at 52%, around 14 points below the national average.

Survey findings also suggested improvements could be made in overall perceptions of public transit, the flow of traffic, pedestrian safety and the effectiveness of the local homelessness response system.

Data showed that dissatisfaction with OKC's homelessness response was spread evenly across the city's eight wards. Tatham also said that residents were increasingly unhappy with what they believed were not enough traffic citations being issued by police.

"That's always a challenge: do you do more enforcement or less enforcement?" Tatham said. "The biggest issue is that people are probably feeling unsafe because they think people are driving too quickly through their neighborhoods."

Annual survey results conducted by ETC Institute show that OKC residents increasingly believe the city's streets and its homelessness response system are among the most important city services. *PROVIDED/ETC Institute

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Annual survey shows residents believe OKC moving in right direction
The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services paid over $900,000 in fines as required by a competency restoration settlement agreement. (Getty Images)(This image cannot be reposted without a Getty subscription.)

OKLAHOMA CITY  The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services paid over $900,000 in fines as a result of noncompliance with a competency restoration consent decree.

Under the federal consent decree, the agency is subject to fines based on their ability to reduce the waitlist for competency restoration services on a set timeline.

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The fines began accruing Oct. 1, and the agency paid $928,400 on Nov. 10 with funds appropriated by the Legislature for this purpose, said Maria Chaverri, an agency spokesperson.

The consent decree settled a 2023 lawsuit that alleged the Mental Health Department violated the rights of mostly indigent defendants who had been declared incompetent to stand trial by failing to provide timely court-ordered competency restoration treatment. The Legislature approved the settlement in March.

Its expected to cost between $26 million and $45 million over three to five years, depending on the agencys ability to provide competency restoration services on a set timeline, as required.

Much of our foundational work has focused on training and centralizing data, crucial to untangling a complex system and preparing for improvements, Chaverri said in a statement. This will be a long process, and were committed to completing it.

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The fines are based on the number of people on the waitlist and how long individuals have been awaiting mental health services.

Seven months after the settlements approval, the Mental Health Department was supposed to reduce the wait time to 60 days. As of Oct. 22, the average wait time for admissions to Oklahoma Forensic Center was reduced from 214 days to 79 days, an agency spokesperson said.

After 16 months, the agency is required to reduce the waitlist to 21 days, according to the consent decree. The settlement includes other benchmarks between seven and 16 months.

The daily fines range from $100 to $500 per individual on the waitlist, depending on how long the person has spent awaiting services beyond the maximum allowable wait time, according to the consent decree.

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The lowest tier fine costs the Mental Health Department $100 per day for each individual on the waitlist for one to seven days longer than allowed. The fine can reach $500 per day per individual that waits more than 60 days beyond the allowed wait time.

Court-appointed consultants previously released reports in June and September that found that while the Mental Health Department has made changes to improve services and comply, but hasnt done enough to meet the required benchmarks of the settlement.

Plaintiffs had sought additional, separate monetary sanctions against the Mental Health Department for noncompliance following these reports, but a judge declined to issue an order doing so.

The state agency requested $17 million from the Legislature for the upcoming fiscal year to implement a court agreement to fix the states competency restoration system and to cover any related fines for noncompliance.

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Fear and swift action gripped a Durham daycare Tuesday as staff ordered a lockdown after U.S. Border Patrol agents parked outside the building.

All My Children Childcare on Angier Avenue primarily serves children of color, including several from immigrant families.

Owner Elisha Muhammad said an employee immediately called the tip hotline for Siembra NC, an immigrant rights group, to report the sighting.

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We alerted our parents that at this time, we do not want anyone to come and pick up anybody because as always, our safety is our kids, Muhammad said at a news conference Tuesday evening. Its really sad that our kids cant go to school freely and learn freely, and love on each other [and] their friends, freely.

Muhammad confirmed that none of the Border Patrol agents tried to enter the daycare or the church it is connected to. Why they were there remains unknown.

The incident was part of a string of Border Patrol sightings across Durham and the Triangle on Tuesday. Siembra NC confirmed the Border Patrol surge led to at least a dozen people being detained in Durham, Raleigh and Cary but said the number could be higher.

Durham and community leaders denounced the operation at the news conference in front of the daycare Tuesday evening.

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Nikki Marin Baena, co-director of Siembra NC, said the Trump administration has had a goal of creating intimidation and fear for immigrant communities.

What we have seen in the last several days in the detentions in Charlotte and here are people being detained not committing crimes but outside of the grocery store or pumping gas or hanging up Christmas lights, she said. Its difficult to watch.

Siembra has trained volunteers to staff its hotline and verify reported sightings with videos or photos. Organizer Andrew Willis Garces said they have been looking for masked agents driving unmarked cars with out-of-state license plates to verify sightings. Many agents have been seen wearing tactical, camouflage gear.

Details about the people arrested by the Border Patrol in the Triangle, including where they were taken to, were unknown Tuesday night.

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Weve had at least half a dozen calls to our hotline in the last two hours from the loved ones of the people who were detained today, Garces said. We think there are at least 20 different individual sightings of Border Patrol activity in the Triangle today. Were sure there were others, were sure theres an undercount, but we arent yet sure about how many detentions across those there were.

Commissioner records arrests

In Durham, three people were arrested behind Beauty World in a shopping center on Avondale Avenue, and another was confirmed arrested at the intersection of North Alston and Liberty streets just east of downtown.

Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam, who recorded video of the arrests at Beauty World, said she arrived there after hearing of reports from organizers in the area and arrived to see agents who were heavily armed, masks covering their faces, kidnapping three men here in Durham.

Allam said at the news conference that the agents did not show a warrant for the arrests, acting like they were in a war zone, not in a neighborhood where families were shopping and working.

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I, myself, am a naturalized immigrant, and Ive built a life here, Ive raised my kids here, I serve this community, she said. I felt fear, and if I felt it, I know our undocumented neighbors felt it 10 times worse.

State Sen. Sophia Chitlik, who serves Durhams District 22, said as a Jewish lawmaker, we have seen this authoritarianism playbook before.

My people know this all too well, she said. It always starts with attacking immigrants and it never ends there. As an elected official it is my responsibility to do everything I can to speak out and to stop families from being torn apart.

Mike Lee, a Durham County commissioner who also drives a Durham Public Schools bus to help with driver shortages, said he noticed several absences Tuesday. The school system, in which roughly 1 in 3 students is Latino, has not yet reported how many students were absent.

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My route starts with an elementary school. The second part of my route serves two middle schools. I usually have 54 students for the elementary school, but today there were only about 20, Lee said in a Facebook post. It was heartbreaking to know that due to the threats of border control in the Triangle Area, these kids have to be afraid to go to school.

Bettina Umstead, the chair of the Durham Public Schools Board of Education, said families should do what they feel necessary when deciding whether to send their children to school. School officials have been trained to respond to attempted arrests or questioning from federal agents.

Community organizes in response

Siembra NC has been training and deploying hundreds of volunteers across Charlotte and Raleigh in response to the Border Patrol activity. Monday night, over 600 volunteers in the Triangle signed up to watch and document sightings and camp outside of homes and businesses.

Durham City Council member Javiera Caballero said, we know how to keep ourselves safe.

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I think people thought they were going to show up, and they were going to pick on us, she said. Durham will not be cowed, we will always stand up and defend our neighbors.

Mayor Leo Williams, who is out of town in Washington, D.C., said he learned about the arrests through Siembra NC and residents who have been recording and reporting.

In a phone interview, he said he took pride that the city is working strategically to inform neighbors about Border Patrol sightings.

Durham has really stood up as a community today, Williams said.

In a statement, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security said over 200 people were arrested in Charlotte from Saturday to Monday.

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Criminal records of those arrested include known gang membership, aggravated assault, possession of a dangerous weapon, felony larceny, simple assault, hit and run, possession of stolen goods, shoplifting, DUI, DWI, and illegal re-entry after prior deportation, a felony, the department said.

The department had not confirmed the number of arrests in the Triangle as of Tuesday night.

Nathan Collins contributed to this report.

In the Spotlight designates ongoing topics of high interest that are driven by The News & Observers focus on accountability reporting.
This article first appeared on GuruFocus.

Release Date: November 18, 2025

For the complete transcript of the earnings call, please refer to the full earnings call transcript.

Positive Points

NGL Fine-Chem Ltd (BOM:524774) reported a 28.64% increase in revenue for Q2 FY26 compared to the same quarter last year, indicating strong year-on-year growth.

The company's EBITDA for the quarter rose by 48.43%, showcasing improved operational efficiency.

The margin expanded by 373 basis points to 14.27%, reflecting better cost management and pricing strategies.

NGL Fine-Chem Ltd successfully submitted its first API registration to the US FDA, marking a significant step towards entering regulated markets.

The company is optimistic about sustained demand recovery and the growth potential unlocked by its capital investments, positioning it well for future opportunities in regulated markets.

Negative Points

Profit after tax for Q2 FY26 was slightly below the previous year's corresponding quarter, indicating some pressure on net profitability.

Despite the revenue growth, the company experienced a 30% increase in outsourcing costs, which could impact future margins if not managed effectively.

The company is cautious about the sustainability of the current demand recovery, as it is the first significant growth after several quarters of flat performance.

NGL Fine-Chem Ltd's new plant is not expected to achieve EBITDA break-even until FY28, indicating a longer timeline for realizing returns on recent capital investments.

The competitive landscape remains challenging with increased competition from both Indian and Chinese manufacturers, which could pressure pricing and market share.

Q & A Highlights

Q: Can you elaborate on the demand improvement and market share in India and Asia? Also, provide details on the US and European regulatory approvals. A: We have seen a broad-based demand improvement, particularly in India and Asia. It's too early to confirm market share gains, but the demand growth is evident. We filed our first API registration with the US FDA in September 2025, and we expect audits to begin in the second half of 2026. In Europe, we have three CEPs and five ASMFs granted, with more filings in progress. Sales from these approvals are expected to increase next year, with significant growth anticipated once US registrations are also secured. - Respondent: Managing Director

Q: What is the current capacity of your existing plant, and how does outsourcing fit into your production strategy? A: It's challenging to define capacity in terms of sales due to varying manufacturing steps. Currently, 15-20% of our production is outsourced, while the rest is handled in-house. This strategy helps us meet demand efficiently. - Respondent: Managing Director
Nearly every Republican in the US House of Representatives voted on a bill to compel the release of documents tied to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.

The lone "nay" came from the Republican lawmaker from Louisiana, Clay Higgins, who defied his party saying his vote was a principled "NO".

"What was wrong with the bill three months ago is still wrong today," Higgins wrote on X. "It abandons 250 years of criminal justice procedure in America."

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The resounding vote in favour of the Epstein bill, 427-1, marks a rare moment of bipartisanship on Capitol Hill. Hours later, the US senate too approved the legislation, clearing the way for the final act - President Donald Trump's signature.

[Getty Images]

For Higgins, safeguarding the personal information of Epstein's many victims was the primary issue with the legislation.

"As written, this bill reveals and injures thousands of innocent people  witnesses, people who provided alibis, family members, etc," he wrote on X. "If enacted in its current form, this type of broad reveal of criminal investigative files, released to a rabid media, will absolutely result in innocent people being hurt."

Higgins said he would support the bill if it were to be amended by the Senate, which Republican majority leader John Thune had already suggested was unlikely.

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"When a bill comes out of the House 427 to 1 and the president said he's going to sign it, I'm not sure that amending it is in the cards," Thune said before the Senate's unanimous approval for the bill on Tuesday.

Prior to the House passing the legislation, only four Republicans had joined all Democrats in signing a petition to force a vote - Thomas Massie, Lauren Boebert, Nancy Mace and Marjorie Taylor Greene.

But it achieved overwhelming Republican support after President Trump dropped his opposition to a vote.

Higgins has represented Louisiana's third district since 2017 and is widely regarded as one of the most conservative members of Congress, according to his website.

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His holdout vote in the wake of 200-plus members of his party voting otherwise is not the first time he has taken an unorthodox stance.

In 2024, House Republicans voted to censure Higgins for offensive remarks he made on social media after he called Haiti "the nastiest country in the western hemisphere" and referred to Haitians as "eating pets" and "slapstick gangsters".

"All these thugs better get their mind right and their ass out of our country before January 20th," Higgins wrote.

Facebook removed two posts from Higgins in 2020, after he wrote he would "drop any 10 of you where you stand", referring to any armed protesters that might attend a Louisiana demonstration against police brutality.

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Facebook told Business Insider at the time the posts "were removed for violating our policies against inciting violence".

Before Congress, Higgins was a member of Louisiana's St Landry's Parish Sheriff's Office. He resigned in 2016 amid backlash about a controversial anti-crime video where he was seen holding a rifle and making threats against gang members.

The BBC has contacted Higgins's office for comment.
The Orange Park Mall is hosting the Yes We Can! food drive to benefit the food waste prevention organization Waste Not Want Not and fight hunger across Northeast Florida. From now through November 27, several stores are collecting non-perishable food in preparation for their Thanksgiving weekend event.

You can drop off your donations at Books-A-Million, Dillards, Go Green CBS, and Swirl Suites. Organizers prefer that those wanting to donate should look to their own pantries first, instead of purchasing new items in an effort to help reduce food waste.

Our shoppers and tenants are passionate about serving and strengthening our North Florida community, says Catharine Wells, the Marketing and Community Engagement Manager for the Orange Park Mall. Our partnership with Waste Not Want Not on the Yes We Can! Food Drive helps reduce food waste while making a difference for local families in need. Every can donated helps to ensure neighbors wont go hungry this holiday season.

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If you donate three or more canned food items, you will receive a free reusable Orange Park Mall tote and a holiday coupon book. Select items will take part in the Canstruction art installation by Orange Park artists. The completed art installation will be unveiled on Friday, November 28, in Center Court.

You can find more events on the Orange Park Mall website.

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The Orlando Magic are hosting their annual Give Thanks This Holiday event on Wednesday, distributing Thanksgiving meals to underserved families in Central Florida.

The event will take place at the Eatonville Boys & Girls Club from 6 to 7 p.m., where Magic players Jase Richardson and Noah Penda, along with community ambassadors Nick Anderson and Bo Outlaw, will hand out turkey dinners.

A total of 400 Thanksgiving meals will be distributed, including turkey and all the trimmings such as green beans, gravy, corn, potatoes, dinner rolls, and dessert.

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Florida Blue is partnering with the Magic to provide additional boxes of perishable and non-perishable food items as part of the Block Out Hunger program.

The event is open to the public, with a select number of meals distributed on a first-come, first-served basis, while the rest will be given to preselected families.

This initiative continues a 33-year tradition of the Orlando Magic giving back to the Central Florida community.

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Candice Player, right, speaks against the "criminalization of homelessness" at a Nov. 18 press conference. At left, Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El (D-Lancaster) and Sen. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia) listen. (Photo by Whitney Downard/Pennsylvania Capital-Star)

Lawmakers and housing advocates in Pennsylvania are calling on the commonwealth to take a more compassionate response to homelessness on the heels of a monumental ruling that allows local government to ban outdoor sleeping even if there are no shelter beds available.

The 2024 decision by the U.S. Supreme Court  Grants Pass v. Johnson  sparked a wave of proposals nationwide that penalized camping, sleeping and storing personal property on certain public land. Such actions essentially criminalized homelessness, advocates said, when people have no other options.

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Instead of working to create safety and stability for their people, governments across the country have doubled down on punitive measures that would turn homelessness and poverty into crimes punishable by jail, said Sen. Nikil Saval (D-Philadelphia). Study after study shows that the criminalization of homelessness is cruel; that it is a gross misuse of public resources; and that it serves to exacerbate the crisis it professes to combat.

Municipalities sometimes argue that the fines and jail time are a solution to the growing number of homeless people, which includes over 12,000 Pennsylvanians on any given day, according to the states Department of Community and Economic Development.

Rep. Ismail Smith-Wade-El (D-Lancaster) urged elected leaders to reprioritize their expenses from prisons to affordable housing, putting human interest before business or political interests.

What the actual evidence shows is that municipalities who treat people like problems, instead of like human beings, end up sending their people to municipalities where there is shelter, where there is housing and where there is compassion, said Smith-Wade-El. I want to make your streets safer, give more of our neighbors a home and save you money that youre currently pouring into prisons and enforcement.

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Those potential savings are what Saval said could be used to win Republican support in the GOP-controlled Senate for companion bills sponsored by himself and Smith-Wade-El.

The two proposals codify a Shelter First approach to homelessness in Pennsylvania, bucking a shift from the federal government away from such policies.

More on the bills

Savals Senate Bill 1089 and Smith-Wade-Els House Bill 2028 legislation would require municipalities to provide adequate indoor spaces for people experiencing homelessness before that government body could enforce outdoor sleeping bans.

Adequate, as defined in the bill, means a shelter must:

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Be available indefinitely, without a daily reapplication

Be available free of charge

Accommodate disabilities

Accept pets

Accommodate partners, including those who are unmarried, as well as family members and other support individuals

Accommodate personal property

Such requirements were important, said Smith-Wade-El, because, Oftentimes, we assign folks who are unhoused to a sort of housing we would never consider for ourselves.

Many people would be shocked to know the number of people who wake up in the morning at a shelter for the unhoused, go work a full-time job  and then come back at night to sleep in the shelter, said Smith-Wade-El.



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Prior to his election to the state House, Smith-Wade-El served on Lancaster City Council after working with area nonprofits, including the Lancaster County Homelessness Coalition.

In his home county, he said law enforcement had pushed encampments from one location to another, playing hot potato with human lives. Such actions will no longer be an acceptable approach, he said.

Candice Player, a vice president with Philadelphias Project HOME, said her organization had been on the frontlines fighting homelessness for decades. That court decision, she said, unleashed a wave of legislation  that criminalizes basic survival activities.

But lets be clear: the Supreme Courts decision in Grants Pass isnt a mandate, its a choice, said Player. Here in the commonwealth, we have the power and responsibility to take a stand.

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Player highlighted federal actions that represent a shift in the national approach to end homelessness, such as recent cuts to permanent housing programs and a Trump administration executive order making it easier to remove homeless people from the streets.

The upheaval at the federal level underscores how essential leadership in Harrisburg will be in the months ahead; Pennsylvania cannot wait for federal solutions, said Player.

Being unhoused compounds existing mental and physical health issues, acting as a barrier for addiction treatment or other counseling. Player said that adding criminal penalties traps people in a cycle of citations, fines and incarceration, instead of helping them find stability.

Under the legislation, the state attorney general will have the authority to bring a civil action. Smith-Wade-El also called for additional investments into the Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency alongside rental assistance and ongoing support for home repair programming.

Smith-Wade-Els bill was assigned to the House Judiciary Committee last week, while Savals measure was sent to its Senate counterpart on Monday. Neither is yet scheduled for a committee hearing.
NEED TO KNOW

A passenger aboard a Rossiya Airlines flight documented pieces of the plane seemingly breaking off mid-flight

Officials confirmed the flight made an emergency landing in Khabarovsk, Russia

Video shared on social media shows the covering of an engine appears to have been torn off and is missing

A passenger jet reportedly had to make an emergency landing mid-flight after parts of the aircraft began to detach from the body.

On Saturday, Nov. 15, a plane operated by Rossiya Airlines made an emergency landing in Khabarovsk, Russia in the morning, according to the Svodka25 Telegram channel and The Khabarovsk Transport Prosecutor's Office channel.

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"The Khabarovsk Transport Prosecutor's Office monitored the emergency landing of an aircraft at Khabarovsk Airport," the office said in a statement on their Telegram channel. "According to preliminary data, today at 9:00 (local time) an aircraft carrying 90 passengers from Vladivostok to Blagoveshchensk made an emergency landing at Khabarovsk Airport due to a technical malfunction."

Alamy Stock image of a plane preparing for takeoff at the airport of Khabarovsk Stock image of a plane preparing for takeoff at the airport of Khabarovsk

In a post translated from Russian, a subscriber told the Svodka25 Telegram channel that the plane "suffered a skin tear" during the flight. A video shared on the channel shows the covering of an engine appears to have been torn off and is missing.

Far Eastern Transport Prosecutor's Office The engine of the Rossiya Airlines after emergency landing The engine of the Rossiya Airlines after emergency landing

After the emergency landing, fire trucks and an ambulance were located at the scene. There were reportedly no injuries. PEOPLE has contacted the Rossiya Airlines for comment.

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Following the incident, some passengers stated they wouldn't board another plane while others waited for a backup aircraft to pick them from Vladivostok, per Svodka25 Telegram channel.

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A preliminary investigation into violations of air transport safety regulations has been launched by the Investigative Committee, according to The Moscow Times.

Law enforcement officials are also set to assess the "circumstances and causes of the incident, and a procedural decision will be made based on the results, the outlet wrote, citing the Eastern Interregional Investigative Directorate for Transport's Telegram channel.

The emergency landing comes after Dmitry Yadrov, the Federal Air Transport Agency, revealed that Russia's civil aviation industry could lose a third of its aircraft and 200 helicopters by 2030, according to the U.K. newspaper Metro.

He also reportedly told a committee on Oct. 7 that there could be a loss of Sukhoi Superjets as a result of issues with the engines.





Read the original article on People
An SAS flight from New York to Copenhagen diverted to a Canadian military base in Goose Bay.

Passengers were stranded overnight before a rescue jet arrived from Copenhagen the next day.

Goose Bay, home to 8,000 people and an air force base, often handles emergency landings.

An SAS Scandinavian Airlines flight from New York to Copenhagen was forced to divert to a Canadian military base, leaving passengers stranded overnight before the airline dispatched a rescue jet to retrieve them.

Flight SK910, an Airbus A330-300, departed Newark Liberty International Airport at 5:47 p.m. Eastern time on Sunday, bound for Denmark.

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But after three and a half hours in the air, the plane diverted northwest and landed safely at Goose Bay Airport in Labrador, Canada, at 9:15 p.m. local time (AST), according to FlightAware data.

It is unclear what led to the unscheduled landing. SAS did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

As one of the last airports before crossing the Atlantic, Goose Bay is frequently used as a diversion site for transatlantic flights, but offers limited passenger facilities.

On Monday, SAS sent an unloaded Airbus A330, operating as flight SK9201, from Copenhagen to Goose Bay, seemingly to rescue the stranded passengers. It took off from Copenhagen at 10:55 a.m. local time on Monday, landing just after midday in Goose Bay, per Flightradar24 data.

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"A presumably very light SAS A330 has been scrambled to fly to Goose Bay to pick up stranded passengers," Flightradar24 posted on X.

The plane took off again for Copenhagen at 7:15 p.m. local time, landing in the Danish capital around 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday morning. As such, passengers from flight SK910 were stranded in Goose Bay for around 22 hours, also arriving 22 hours late at their destination.

It is unclear whether the passengers were accommodated inside the military base  though in a similar 2023 incident, 270 Delta passengers stranded in Goose Bay were housed overnight in military barracks.

Goose Bay's population is roughly 8,000, and its limited civilian infrastructure often leaves diverted passengers waiting for replacement aircraft or crew to arrive from elsewhere.

The original plane was still on the ground in Goose Bay as of 5 a.m. ET on Tuesday.

Read the original article on Business Insider
NEED TO KNOW

13 people were injured when a busy inter-city bus had a "braking system failure" in Sao Paulo, Brazil

The incident occurred at 7:30 a.m. on Monday, Nov. 17 on a road adjacent to the Raposo Tavares Highway

Per footage of the incident shared by local Brazilian outlets, the bus collided with 15 cars and two motorcycles during the incident

At least 13 people were injured after bus crashed into several vehicles due to a "braking system failure" in the Brazilian city of Sao Paulo.

Passengers traveling on the busy inter-city bus on Monday, Nov. 17, were left terrified when the vehicle lost control for nearly one minute after the brakes failed. The bus hit around 15 cars and two motorcycles at 10 mph, leaving 13 people injured, CNN Brasil reported.

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According to Brazilian outlet G1, the incident occurred on a road adjacent to the Raposo Tavares Highway at around 7:30 a.m. local time, citing the highway management company, Ecovias Raposo Castello.

Video footage provided by G1 and local outlet Osascomunica shows the bus hitting the curb before mounting the sidewalk and crashing into numerous vehicles, as passengers can be heard screaming. The panicked passengers are later seen getting off the bus after the vehicle ends up crashing into the gate of a condominium, per CNN Brasil.

Two serious, two moderate and eight minor injuries were reported, per G1, with the accident being blamed upon a braking system failure, according to the Ecovias Raposo Castello.

The outlet reports that assistance was provided at the scene by the Ecovias Raposo Castello. The Fire Department and SAMU (Mobile Emergency Care Service) also assisted the victims, who were taken to nearby hospitals.

Pedro Truffi/Getty Aerial view of Raposo Tavas highway in Sao Paulo, Brazil - stock photo Aerial view of Raposo Tavas highway in Sao Paulo, Brazil - stock photo

The accident took place when the bus was crowded during rush hour, with many passengers standing in the aisle of the bus. The video footage shared by G1 shows the driver gripping tightly to the steering wheel as the vehicle appears to be out of control. The bus only comes to a standstill when it hits the gates of a condominium close to the highway.

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The Civil Police opened an investigation to determine the causes of the accident, per CNN Brasil, who also noted that a technical examination was carried out on the bus.

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PEOPLE contacted concessionaire Ecovias Raposo Castello, the Public Security Secretariat (SSP) and the Civil Police for further updates, but did not immediately receive a response.

Read the original article on People
A lawsuit has been filed in a recent Pierce County botulism case blamed on tainted baby formula at the center of a national recall.

Madison and Tyler Wescott of Eatonville, represented by attorneys with Marler Clark of Bainbridge Island, filed the suit Wednesday against Delaware-based ByHeart Inc. in U.S. District Court Western District of Washington.

According to the filing, the Wescotts are the parents of an infant who was diagnosed this month with infant botulism. The infants illness resulted in a hospitalization over several days before the child was released Wednesday.

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The family seeks damages for an amount to be determined at trial.

The case is among several filed against the baby-formula maker as a result of a nationwide infant botulism outbreak. Since Nov. 11, lawsuits against ByHeart have also been filed in California, Arizona, Kentucky and New York, according to an online case search of U.S. District Courts.

William Marler, lead attorney in the Washington state case, said in an emailed statement to The News Tribune that he has been hired by over a dozen families whose kids are part of this outbreak.

He stated that hes also been asked to investigate other infant botulism cases from earlier 2025, where ByHeart also was consumed.

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My fear is that we will see these numbers go up, Marler added.

Marler also represented customers affected in the Frugals listeria outbreak in 2023.

ByHeart did not immediately respond Wednesday to a request for comment on the case.

A statement posted on its website said, We started this company to give parents confidence in what they feed their babies. So knowing that the past few days have caused confusion and fear for many of you has been heartbreaking, and we are so sorry.

The company has posted information online on how customers can reach them for 24/7 support regarding the voluntary product recall.

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The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also has information posted online with updates as new cases are reported.

Infants symptoms and eventual hospital diagnosis

The Washington state case describes the infant, born in September, beginning to receive ByHeart formula for feeding in October.

The filing states that in early November, the parents observed significant changes in the babys behavior and health.

She experienced difficulty feeding, frequently choking and spilling milk from her mouth, suffered from chronic constipation that required suppositories, and exhibited extreme fatigue, often sleeping for 10-hour stretches without waking, the filing stated.

This map on the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website showed the numbers of affected infants in the nation as of Wednesday in a recent infant botulism outbreak. CDC

Further complications arose, and on her two-month birthday on Nov. 13, the baby was taken to an ER.

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Plaintiffs had become aware of the ByHeart infant formula recall through a notice from Target regarding the formula they had purchased, the filing stated.

The medical team, after contacting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the local health department, determined the baby required treatment for botulism and admitted her to the pediatric unit, the filing stated.

Testing later confirmed a positive result for botulism, it added.

After several days of treatment, the infant was released from the hospital Nov. 19.

On Nov. 14, The News Tribune reported that health officials were urging parents to immediately stop using ByHeart Whole Nutrition Infant Formula after multiple infant botulism cases were reported nationwide, including the Pierce County case.

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As of Nov. 19, the outbreak includes 31 infants with suspected or confirmed infant botulism from 15 states, including two infants in Washington. The first case in Washington state was reported Nov. 12 in Lewis County.

No deaths have been reported.

Previous reporting from The News Tribune contributed to this report.
A wealthy Plymouth couple has landed in federal court, accused of hiring more than 200 undocumented immigrants to work at their national plumbing business over the years, and housing many of them in run-down motels and houses  all while they raked in $74 million in revenue, according to a new court filing in New York.

That's where Moises and Raquel Orduna-Rios are facing federal charges, including money laundering, following a five-year investigation that started with federal agents spotting one of the couple's company vans outside a motel in Amherst, New York. The agents also encountered  and arrested  a small group of undocumented immigrants, who explained the van belonged to their "boss," court records show.

That boss was 36-year-old Moises Orduna-Rios, president of Michigan-based Orduna Plumbing Inc., which also has operations in New York, North Carolina and Ohio. He was arrested on Tuesday, Nov. 18, after years of being monitored by federal agents who kept close tabs on his company vans, financial transactions, communications and his illegal workers who made $800-$1,500 per week, and in some cases had their living expenses covered.

Nine undocumented immigrants lived in this house while working for a Plymouth couple who hired more than 200 undocumented immigrants to build a $74 million plumbing empire, the government says. The couple were criminally charged on Nov. 18, 2025, in federal court.

According to a criminal complaint unsealed on Tuesday, Nov. 18, the investigation uncovered messages between Orduna-Rios and some of his illegal workers, during which they discussed payroll, proper care of company vehicles and company credit cards, and concerns about them being undocumented and getting caught.

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There was also talk about the workers switching housing locations to be less visible to law enforcement, the complaint states, and precautions that should be taken to avoid getting arrested.

Gentlemen, with all the controversy that is going on, its better to get ready, drive the speed limit, limit yourselves going to the store, only do minimal running of errands, and do not have any gatherings such as barbeques Orduna-Rios wrote in one group chat message on Feb. 1.

Less than nine months after sending that message, Orduna-Rios and his wife would find themselves in a federal courtroom in Detroit, charged with conspiracy, transporting and harboring undocumented immigrants for commercial advantage or private financial gain, and money laundering. If convicted, they each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of $3,000 for each undocumented immigrant they employed.

The couple were released on bond. Their next court appearance will take place on Dec. 2 in federal court in New York, where the criminal case was filed and will be prosecuted.

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No attorneys of record are yet listed in federal court documents for the defendants. Efforts to reach them as of late Tuesday, Nov. 18 were unsuccessful.

According to the government, the couple employed about 253 workers between 2022 and 2024. Of those employees, only six were permitted to work in the United States, prosecutors said, alleging the defendants collected their workers' passports and housed them in overcrowded houses and hotel rooms. Of the 247 undocumented workers at Orduna Plumbing, 23 employees ended up getting arrested during the federal investigation, court records show.

The criminal complaint in this case offers a glimpse into how the federal government aggressively pursued undocumented immigrants who allegedly helped make the Michigan couple rich, in exchange for work, housing and sometimes air travel to a job location.

According to the complaint, Border Patrol Agents spent months and years following Orduna Plumbing vans bearing Michigan license plates, and arresting undocumented immigrants at all kinds of locations: a Walmart parking lot, a motel parking lot, a traffic stop. Undercover agents also tricked some of the workers to get more information.

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For example, on Dec. 27, 2024, Border Patrol agents went to a tow yard in Rochester, New York, where one agent in plainclothes struck up a conversation with an employee of Orduna Plumbing who had gone to retrieve his van. Not knowing he was talking to a federal agent, the plumbing employee flashed about $10,000 in cash while talking to the agent, telling him that he was responsible for paying Orduna Plumbing employees in the Rochester area. He also told the agent that if he were interested in working for the company, he would provide him with housing, a vehicle, tools and a small crew.

The agent told the man that he was in the United States illegally. The man reportedly told him that wasn't an issue, that he would still hire him.

The agent played along, without answering. After the conversation, the man got his work van from the tow yard and drove back to the home where his co-workers were. Unbeknownst to him, federal agents had followed and spotted five more Orduna Plumbing work vans outside the small yellow house, where nine men were living inside, despite there being only three bedrooms.

This is inside a three-bedroom house, where nine undocumented immigrants lived while working for a Michigan plumbing company that the government says made $74 million by hiring more than 200 illegal workers.

The investigation would continue, with federal agents using wiretaps to listen to conversations between various plumbing employees and Orduna-Rios, who they already knew was boss of the company.

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According to the criminal complaint, federal agents retrieved messages that Orduna-Rios sent to his employees titled "Housing and Hotels," telling them they were all responsible for keeping the houses clean, not to mark the walls or dirty the homes, and that they were responsible for the bills in some of the homes. He also sent "HOTELS" rules, stating:

He began by stating: "[d]o not leave the van with mud on your shoes, do not leave trash behind when you leave the room, THEY CHARGE ME FOR THAT, do not set off any alarm THEY CHARGE ME IF THEY NOTICE."

On Feb. 1, 2025, came the message warning of ICE raids: "Gentlemen, with all the controversy that is going on, it's better to get ready, drive the speed limit, limit yourselves going to the store, only do minimal running of errands, and do not have any gatherings such as barbeques."

The message continued: "Dont worry about the jobs, I was researching and they can't enter the projects unless they have an order and have notified the construction company. At any time that someone tells me that they are going to arrive I will let them know ... Analysts think this won't last long, but for greater security, everyone be really careful."

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After citing this message in his affidavit, a federal agent noted that immigration enforcement activities had increased around this time, and that Orduna-Rios was warning his workers to be careful. But he was also advising them that they had rights, the agent wrote, citing what he said appeared to be a copy-and-pasted message from an immigration website. It stated: "Undocumented Immigrants in the United States have certain IMMIGRATION LAW Rights, including the right to due process, the right to a lawyer and the right to remain silent. These rights apply to everyone, regardless of their immigration status."

Nine months after sending that message, as the feds continue to scrutinize his company records, deposits and communications, Orduna-Rios and his wife, who is the company treasurer, were arrested.

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Contact Tresa Baldas: tbaldas@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Rich Michigan couple charged with hiring 200 undocumented workers
Poland is closing the Russian Consulate General in Gdansk - Moscow's last in the country - Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski said on Wednesday in response to the weekend's bomb attack on a strategically important railway line.

He had withdrawn the diplomatic mission's licence, the minister said in Warsaw. Poland would also take further steps "of a non-diplomatic nature" following the incident. Sikorski did not provide any details.

The Polish government accuses Russian intelligence services of being behind the destruction of tracks on the line from Warsaw to Lublin.

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The blast occurred near the village of Mika, about 100 kilometres south-east of the capital. No one was injured because a train driver noticed the damage in time and reported it.

Investigators are seeking two suspects - Ukrainian citizens who are said to have acted on behalf of Moscow and fled to Belarus after the attack.

This marks a significant escalation in Russia's actions, Sikorski said. "Sabotage is when property is damaged. If the intention is to kill people, it is no longer sabotage, but state terrorism," according to the minister.

The Russian Consulate General in the northern port city was the last remaining institution of its kind in Poland. In May, Poland closed the consulate in Krakow following allegations of arson against Russian intelligence. The consulate in Poznan in 2024 was closed for the same reason.

Sikorski stressed that, like other EU countries affected by the actions of the Russian secret service, Poland had no intention of closing the Russian embassy in Warsaw and breaking off diplomatic relations with Moscow.
Investing.com -- Nokia stock fell on Wednesday after its capital markets day (CMD) delivered a sweeping internal overhaul, but didnt announce the sort of new external deals some investors had been hoping for.

Shares in the Helsinki-based company fell 5% by 13:37 GMT, while its U.S.-listed stock tumbled more than 6% in premarket trading.

Nokia outlined a strategy built around artificial intelligence and a slimmer operating model, yet analysts noted the absence of fresh partnerships following recent high-profile moves with Infinera and Nvidia.

The Finnish group plans to split into two operating segments from 2026  network infrastructure and mobile infrastructure  with the former positioned around AI and data-centre demand and the latter focused on core telecoms.

Alongside the structural changes, Nokia is targeting comparable operating profit of 2.7 billion euros to 3.2 billion euros by 2028, up as much as 60% from last years 2 billion euros.

The consensus currently sits at the low end of Nokias new profit range at 2.7 billion euros, according to Morgan Stanley.

Nokia aims to trim group operating expenses to 150 million euros by 2028 from 350 million euros, while driving free-cash-flow conversion to between 65% and 75%.

Management highlighted that the network infrastructure division should deliver 6% to 8% net sales compound annual growth rate (CAGR) between 2025 and 2028, including a 10% to 12% growth target for optical networks and IP networks.

Mobile infrastructure is expected to reach gross margins of 48% to 50% and lift operating profit from a base of 1.5 billion euros.

Nokia said it will also launch a new defence incubation unit to deliver secure connectivity to Western partners.

Shares came under pressure as expectations for bolder announcements ran ahead of the event.

Morgan Stanley analysts led by Terence Tsui described the day as one marked by lots of internal changes/reorganisation, but  so far there are no new external strategic announcements/partnerships, adding that this may lead to some modest profit taking.

Nokia will start reporting its financial results under the new structure beginning with its first quarter of fiscal 2026.

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Poland is closing the Russian Consulate General in Gdansk - Moscow's last in the country - Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski said on Wednesday in response to the weekend's bomb attack on a strategically important railway line.

He had withdrawn the diplomatic mission's licence, the minister said in Warsaw. Poland would also take further steps "of a non-diplomatic nature" following the incident. Sikorski did not provide any details.

The Polish government accuses Russian intelligence services of being behind the destruction of tracks on the line from Warsaw to Lublin.

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The blast occurred near the village of Mika, about 100 kilometres south-east of the capital. No one was injured because a train driver noticed the damage in time and reported it.

Investigators are seeking two suspects - Ukrainian citizens who are said to have acted on behalf of Moscow and fled to Belarus after the attack.

This marks a significant escalation in Russia's actions, Sikorski said. "Sabotage is when property is damaged. If the intention is to kill people, it is no longer sabotage, but state terrorism," according to the minister.

The Russian Consulate General in the northern port city was the last remaining institution of its kind in Poland. In May, Poland closed the consulate in Krakow following allegations of arson against Russian intelligence. The consulate in Poznan in 2024 was closed for the same reason.

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Sikorski stressed that, like other EU countries affected by the actions of the Russian secret service, Poland had no intention of closing the Russian embassy in Warsaw and breaking off diplomatic relations with Moscow.

Speaking of a "complete deterioration" in relations with Poland, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the closure of the Gdansk consulate was an expression of the Polish leadership's desire to destroy any possibility of consular or diplomatic ties.

"One can only express regret," said Peskov.

Poland's foreign minister went on to say that a request would be made to the government in Belarus to extradite the two suspects: "These are the procedures," Sikorski said.

There are no great hopes that the country, ruled authoritatively by Alexander Lukashenko, will comply with the request. Belarus is a close ally of Russia.
Rescuers were still working through the rubble on Friday, uncovering more bodies after a Russian attack hit apartment buildings in western Ukraine earlier this week, killing at least 31 people including several children, according to authorities.

Ukraines emergency service said Thursday that people were still missing after the airstrikes on two apartment blocks in the western city of Ternopil. On Friday, three more bodies were recovered, including those of two children. Ukraines interior minister said the strikes may have wiped out entire families.

The large-scale Russian attack overnight Tuesday was one of the deadliest to target western Ukraine since the start of the conflict and prompted NATO to scramble fighter jets over neighboring Poland and Romania.

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Russia will never stop on its own, Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky said in a post on Telegram, urging allies to increase pressure on Moscow to halt the violence and restore peace.

Oksana Kobels son was in a ninth-story apartment in the building at the time of the attack.

I went to work, heard the explosions. I called him and said, Bohdan, go to the shelter, get dressed. He answered, Mom, I am already up. Everything will be fine, she said Wednesday, according to Reuters.

Russias attacks have mostly targeted the eastern part of the country and large cities such as Kyiv, and many Ukrainians have fled to the west.

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The Ukrainian air force said Russia fired hundreds of drones and dozens of missiles during the attack. The buildings in Ternopil were most likely hit by Russias powerful Kh-101 cruise missile, which is designed to avoid air defenses and is equipped with an advanced precision guiding system, they said.

Romanias Defense Ministry said it scrambled two Eurofighters, part of NATOs fleet, and later two Romanian F-16 fighter jets after a Russian drone entered its airspace during the attack.

Polish and allied fighter jets were also launched to protect Polish airspace on Wednesday morning, the countrys operational command said.

Rescue workers put out a fire at a residential building damaged by a Russian strike in Kharkiv, Ukraine, on Wednesday, November 19, 2025. - Andrii Marienko/AP

Meanwhile, US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and a top-level Pentagon delegation were in Ukraine on Thursday for meetings with officials following reports that Russia and the US were working on peace proposals that call for Ukraine to cede land and reduce the size of its army.

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Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski told CNN that any peace plan would have to involve Europe and leave Ukraine with the capacity to defend itself.

Poland is a neighbor of both Russia and Ukraine, and the (European Union) is helping Ukraine more, including militarily, than the US, and also financially more than the US. So we have a much bigger stake in this than the US, he said.

NATO allies have increasingly scrambled fighter jets in recent months during Russian attacks on Ukraine, or when stray Russian munitions, drones and warplanes have either strayed too close to their borders or crossed them.

The latest move by NATO comes during a tense week. Polish officials have pointed the finger at Russia after a key train track was destroyed in what Warsaw said was an unprecedented act of sabotage committed by two Ukrainian citizens who were collaborating with Russian services. Russian officials have denied the accusation.

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On Wednesday, Polands Sikorski said he would close the last Russian consulate in the country in response to the destruction of the train track. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov expressed regret over the move.

A Rafale jet fighter, drones and ammunition on display at the Villacoublay air base, in Velizy-Villacoublay, France, before the arrival of Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Monday. - Christophe Ena/AFP/Getty Images

On Tuesday, the US State Department approved a possible $105 million sale that would allow Ukraine to upgrade its Patriot air defense system  a critical shield against Russian aerial attacks.

The proposed sale will improve Ukraines ability to meet current and future threats by further equipping it to conduct self-defense and regional security missions with a more robust local sustainment capability, said a Pentagon statement.

Earlier this week, Zelensky struck a deal during a visit to Paris to purchase up to 100 French-made Rafale fighter jets as well as anti-air defenses and drones from France.

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This story and headline have been updated with additional developments.

Symons reported from Hong Kong and Nicholls from London. CNNs Antonia Mortensen, Anna Chernova and Nina Subkhanberdina contributed to this report.

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HARVARD, Ill. (WTVO)  Police in Harvard have ruled the shooting deaths of a married couple,, found dead in a car last month, to be a murder-suicide.

According to the Harvard Police Department, an officer found the car, with its hazard lights on, in the 700 block of North Division Street around 11:52 p.m. on Monday, October 6th.

Upon investigation, the officer found the pair dead within.

Rachel Dumovich, 29, and Brandon Dumovich, 30, both of Sharon, Wisconsin, died from gunshot wounds to the head, the McHenry County Coroner said.

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Last week, the Harvard Police Department said the investigation determined that Brandon shot Rachel before killing himself.

According to WFLD, the pair were married one year earlier, on October 12th, 2024.

Our thoughts remain with the families and all those affected by this tragedy, the police department said.

Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to MyStateline | WTVO News, Weather and Sports.
UPDATE: Shortly after 6 p.m., the Hillsborough Police Department said they apprehended a suspect and that there was no threat to the public.

Police on Tuesday are searching for an armed person who was seen at a shopping center off Route 206 in Hillsborough in Somerset County.

The armed person fled the area, according to a social media post from the township.

The incident occurred near 649 Route 206 shortly before 3 p.m. The shopping center includes a branch of Wells Fargo Bank, Chipotle, Starbucks and Patidar Supermarket. The center is adjacent to a second shopping center that has ShopRite as an anchor.

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The townships public schools were placed in a lockdown before police said schools could be dismissed. All after school activities were cancelled for the afternoon.

Students were released around 4 p.m.

The incident did not take place at any of the school buildings, according to a social media post from the school district.

We recognize that the event our community experienced today has been profoundly challenging and have likely stirred deep emotions in all of us, Hillsborough School District Superintendent Michael J. Volpe said in a different post around 6 p.m.

Residents were told to use caution and lock their doors while police are looking for the person, according to officials.

Read the original article on NJ.com. Add NJ.com as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
WARSAW, Poland  In the aftermath of a blast that destroyed a train track in a village south of the countrys capital Warsaw, Polish Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski told lawmakers the act of sabotage was likely performed on the orders of Russias military intelligence.

In the past days, there were activities of foreign services that could have caused a train catastrophe and the deaths of many people. A foreign country sent well-prepared saboteurs, Sikorski said during a session of the Polish parliaments lower chamber on Nov. 19.

Since the incident, which was detected on Nov. 17, Polish authorities have identified two Ukrainian citizens allegedly recruited by Russian intelligence as the suspects behind the blast. One of them had been convicted in absentia of involvement in acts of sabotage in Ukraine.

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Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has announced that the two suspects have since fled Poland by crossing the countrys border with Belarus.

Russias [military intelligence service] GRU routinely hires for its dirty work people who work under a false flag. This was not an act of sabotage, as the previous ones, but an act of state terror, Sikorski said. We will give a reply to it, not only a diplomatic one.

The blast did not cause any casualties. Polish authorities have responded by deploying the military to assist in the investigation and check other segments of the Warsaw-Lublin rail track that was impacted by sabotage.

Since Russias invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Warsaw has established itself as one of Kyivs staunchest allies, delivering weapons and military equipment to its neighbor.

This has triggered backlash from Russia combined with hostile hybrid attacks against Poland involving cyberattacks, arson and various acts of sabotage.
Polish authorities have accused Russia of rail sabotage attacks over the weekend, while arresting two Ukrainian men said to be responsible for the incidents. Polands Prime Minister Donald Tusk said these attacks constituted perhaps the most serious  when it comes to the security of the Polish state  incidents since the beginning of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. If verified, this would be the latest example of Russian hybrid warfare, which, as you can read about here, is just below the threshold of armed conflict. In this context, its a means of creating disruption and sowing fear, but, so long as it uses proxies to achieve its aims, it remains very hard for such activities to be directly traced back to the Kremlin.

The main incident occurred on Sunday in the village of Mika, in the Masovian Voivodeship, in east-central Poland, and involved the use of a military-grade C-4 plastic explosive that was supposed to blow up a train. The explosives were to be detonated via a 300-meter (328-yard) cable.

Police investigate at the scene of a damaged section of railway tracks on the Deblin-Warsaw route near the Mika railway station, next to the town of Zyczyn, east-central Poland, on November 17, 2025. Photo by Aleksander Kalka/NurPhoto Aleksander Kalka

The explosive went off under a freight train, which suffered minor damage to its undercarriage, but more serious damage was inflicted on the tracks. The next train had already been warned about the problem and was able to stop in time.

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Tusk said that a certain line has been crossed, since the incident could have been much worse if it werent for undisclosed errors made in the execution of the attack by the perpetrators.

A second incident occurred further down the same railway line on Sunday, where a busy train was forced to stop suddenly. This is considered likely another case of sabotage, though not involving an explosion.

Speaking in the Polish parliament, Tusk said today that the rail sabotage incidents were unprecedented and warned of escalation by Russian intelligence services. The Polish prime minister said these activities aimed to sow chaos across Europe and to foster opposition to governments support for Ukraine. They also aimed to hamper the delivery of arms and other aid to Ukraine by targeting train lines connecting the two countries.

Prime Minister Donald Tusk, during a session of the Polish Parliament, informing MPs about acts of terrorist sabotage directed against railway infrastructure, in Warsaw, Poland, on November 18, 2025. Photo by Andrzej Iwanczuk/NurPhoto via Getty Images NurPhoto

Tusk said that Polish authorities receive dozens of alerts each day, not all of which are genuine, increasing the burden on the services investigating them.

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These acts of sabotage and the actions of Russian services across the whole of Europe, not only in Poland, are unfortunately gaining momentum, Tusk told lawmakers.

Tusk claimed that the Kremlin is interested not only in the direct effect of this type of actions, but also the social and political consequences, including spreading disorganization, chaos, panic, speculation, uncertainty, and the stirring up of possibly radically anti-Ukrainian sentiments.

This is particularly dangerous in countries like Poland, where we have enough burdens that we bear due to over a million Ukrainian refugees in Poland, Tusk added.

A map showing the approximate location of the village of Kima. Google Earth

Poland today identified two Ukrainian men who it says were the main suspects behind the sabotage incidents. Authorities in Warsaw said the perpetrators are thought to be working for the Russian intelligence services, who organized their crossing into Poland from Belarus this fall. After the attack, the two men are said to have fled to Belarus.

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If the accused are the perpetrators, this would fit with the pattern of Moscows use of so-called disposable agents. These individuals are recruited, often online, to undertake specific acts of sabotage. Often paid in cryptocurrency, they may well be unaware that their masters are in Russian intelligence. In this way, sabotage campaigns can be orchestrated from Russia, with no need to put its own agents into the field. Ukrainians, Belarusians, and other nationalities have been recruited for such activities. In this case, Tusk said that the use of Ukrainians was deliberate, to help promote anti-Ukrainian feelings in Poland.

Polish border guards secure the fence at the Poland/Belarus border on August 25, 2025, in Krynki, eastern Poland. Photo by JANEK SKARZYNSKI / AFP JANEK SKARZYNSKI

Poland has said it will respond to the sabotage attacks by increasing the threat level to protect selected rail routes. Poland will raise the alert level to its third level out of four. However, the rail network elsewhere in the country will remain unchanged, at the second level.

European leaders outside Poland have also responded to the attacks.

In the neighboring Czech Republic, Prime Minister Petr Fiala said that the Polish rail sabotage was extremely alarming.

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In a post on X, Fiala wrote: Russia is behaving in an openly hostile manner towards us and has long been undermining the security and stability of Europe. We must not be naive or underestimate the risks we are facing. It is our duty to strengthen our defense, invest in security, cooperate with our allies, and be prepared to confront similar attacks.

Je velmi vazne, ze za sabotazi na zeleznicni trati VarsavaLublin staly ruske tajne sluzby. Informaci dnes prinesly polske bezpecnostni slozky.



Rusko se chova jako nepritel. Je to jen dalsi z cele rady incidentu, ktery ohrozuje nasi bezpecnost. Kreml proste zkousi, kam az muze  Martin Kupka (@makupka) November 18, 2025

Meanwhile, the Kremlin accused Poland of Russophobia after its allegations.

Russia is accused of all manifestations of the hybrid and direct war that is taking place, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told a Russian state television reporter. In Poland, lets say, everyone is trying to run ahead of the European locomotive in this regard. And Russophobia, of course, is flourishing there, he said.

Bordering Poland, Ukraine, and the Russian exclave of Kaliningrad, Poland has been very much on the frontline of the hybrid war being waged by Russia alongside its full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

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According to Tusk, Poland has faced multiple sabotage incidents in recent years, resulting in 55 people being detained. However, there is, by now, a broader pattern of attacks, with other acts of Russian sabotage in Europe, including in Moldova, Romania, the United Kingdom, and Germany.

As a result of the investigation, we now know it was the Russian Secret Services that commissioned the blast of the Polish railway and recruited two Ukrainians to do it. We also know the identities of the perpetrators who immediately fled Poland for Belarus.  Donald Tusk (@donaldtusk) November 18, 2025

Poland has experienced a series of major arson and sabotage attacks in recent years, including parcel bombings, which it sees as part of Moscows hybrid war on the West.

In September, Russian drone incursions into Polish airspace were deemed deliberate by Poland, which claimed they were a calculated test of NATOs ability to react to aerial threats. Polish authorities said 19 Russian drones entered the countrys airspace, with some of them being shot down by Polish and Dutch combat aircraft. You can catch up to our reporting on the incident in our story here.

New Russian Gerbera drone found in Wohyn, Poland. 60 km from the border. https://t.co/9eIPyqq2Xu pic.twitter.com/AS6fKjG5zh  Special Kherson Cat   (@bayraktar_1love) September 10, 2025

Poland also faces a threat from rogue Russian missiles targeting Ukraine.

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In November 2022, two Polish citizens were killed by falling debris when Ukraine shot down a Russian missile near the Polish border using a surface-to-air missile.

There have been promises made to provide Poland with additional air defense resources, and NATO is reviewing how to improve its collective defenses.

The Netherlands already decided to deliver layered air defence to east Poland later this year.



With 2 Patriot systems, NASAMS, counter drone systems and 300 troops, well deploy advanced capabilities.



Today has shown this is more important than ever for our joint security.   pic.twitter.com/NwR9N6Rw7T  Ruben Brekelmans (@DefensieMin) September 10, 2025

Previously, European and NATO members took a more circumspect tone when discussing these incidents.

However, both Prime Minister Tusk and the Polish security services have put the blame for the rail sabotage squarely on Moscow.

The Polish security services ministers spokesperson, Jacek Dobrzynski, confirmed that everything indicates that Russian intelligence services were behind the sabotage incidents in Poland. The fact is that everything indicates that this  we can already confidently call it a terrorist attack, was initiated by special services from the East, he later added.

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At this stage, however, no details have been released that explain how responsibility has been traced back to Russia.

I cannot say what stage the officers are [at] or [what they are] currently working on and what threads they are connecting or what threads they are analyzing. The Russian services would very much want to have this information: where our officers are or in which direction they are heading, Dobrzynski said.

Summing up the situation that Poland, a key ally of Ukraine and a NATO member of growing military stature, faces on the fringes of the war in Ukraine, the Deputy Prime Minister of Poland Wadysaw Marcin Kosiniak-Kamysz, said that the country faced a state between war and peace, where we have attacks, acts of sabotage, disinformation on a gigantic scale on the internet, the destruction, or attempts at destruction, of critical infrastructure across the whole of Europe.

For a while, Europe has been more alert to the prospect of these kinds of infrastructure attacks, orchestrated by Moscow, becoming much more common across the continent. The incidents in Poland are further evidence of the level of threat.

Contact the author: thomas@thewarzone.com
A number of mainstream media reporters on Tuesday declared their public support for Mary Bruce of ABC News and Bloombergs Catherine Lucey, after both were lambasted by President Donald Trump in recent days.

Trump, while taking questions alongside Saudi leader Mohammed bin Salman on Tuesday, ripped Bruce and ABC as fake news and one of the worst in the business, after she asked about the murder of former Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi. That shot came a few days after Trump called Lucey a piggy aboard Air Force One.

Those barbs led to swift pushback from journos.

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CNN star Kaitlan Collins complimented both on Tuesday afternoon, saying they do a great job.

Peter Baker with The New York Times complimented Bruce as a first-rate reporter. He added she was calm and professional in the face of a presidential tirade.

Ex-ABC News anchor Terry Moran posted on X that Bruce is the best; he then shared a video where he said the American people are decent, but President Trump is not.

Former Fox News host Gretchen Carlson posted that an army of men and women support Bruce. She also said the president acted like a madman.

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NYT reporter Ryan Mac mockingly posted on Bluesky, you dont have to embarrass our guest by asking if he had someone killed and hacked to pieces.

CNBCs Carl Quintanilla said the presidents response to Bruce explained everything about how Trump sees press freedom.

As for the piggy comment, CNN veteran Jake Tapper said it was disgusting and completely unacceptable from Trump.

His colleague Jim Sciutto questioned What would the consequences be in a company boardroom for such a comment.

Ex-Meet the Press moderator Chuck Todd said he believed Trumps comments signaled he was a lame duck.

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Blogger and xx-CNN and MSNBC political analyst Chris Cillizza said Trumps comments should not shock anyone who has been following politics the past decade.

Liberal YouTuber David Pakman also called it disgusting.

You get the idea.

The post Political Journos Rally Around Colleagues Whom Trump Called Piggy and Fake News Mary Bruce: Disgusting and Completely Unacceptable first appeared on Mediaite.
The Waukesha School District will have fewer elementary schools next school year after the Waukesha School Board voted Nov., 12 to close three of them in an effort to deal with declining enrollment.

The schools that will close are Bethesda Elementary, Hawthorne Elementary and the Whittier building, which houses the district's elementary STEM program. The board's decision also means that:

Horning Middle School will become a K-8 STEM school

Two traditional middle schools will be offered, at Butler and Les Paul

Three elementary schools  Banting, Heyer and Lowell  will host dual-language programs, which teaches students in English and Spanish

The district will also potentially sell three other buildings: the Saratoga building, which hosts Waukesha STEM Academy's Saratoga campus and the Saratoga complex; White Rock, which hosts alternative high school Waukesha East, and the Pleasant Hill campus, which hosts the Richardson School that serves high-needs special education students.

The district estimates the plan will save between $3.2 million and $3.7 million.

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The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel wants to hear from you: Do you think the school board made the right decision? Let us know your thoughts by the end of the day Nov. 24. Fill out the questions below or email your responses to alec.johnson@jrn.com.

Contact Alec Johnson at 262-875-9469 or alec.johnson@jrn.com. Follow him on Twitter at @AlecJohnson12.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Three Waukesha elementary schools to close: Tell us what you think.
The City of Port Washington has officially approved a $458 million tax incremental finance district for OpenAI and Oracle's $15 billion Lighthouse data center campus meant to advance artificial intelligence.

The project has sparked immense online discourse and public attendance at city meetings in recent months, with many saying the TIF amounts to corporate welfare for companies worth hundreds of billions of dollars that are pursuing a technology that has no guardrails.

On Nov. 18, the city's Joint Review Board unanimously passed TIF district (No. 5), which will reimburse Denver-based data center operations company Vantage for fronting infrastructure improvements, along with interest, consulting fees and other costs associated with the project that total $458 million.

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The TIF district was negotiated as part of a development agreement between the city and Vantage approved by the council on Aug. 20.

The data center campus is part of the Stargate program, a $500 billion investment driving AI advancement across the country. The first stage of the data center project includes building four data centers utilizing 1.3 gigawatts of electricity on 672 acres of the total 2,000-acre site scoped for the project.

Throughout TIF approval, residents raised concerns about the environment, water use, energy costs and AI, seeking legally enshrined transparency and commitment

At several city meetings, the tax incremental district has seen steadfast crowds of regional residents who repeatedly raise concerns about the project's potential impact on the environment, water use, energy prices and purpose of advancing AI.

Both the city's Joint Review Board and the Plan Commission unanimously recommended approval of the TIF district on Oct. 16. It was then discussed by the Common Council on Oct. 21 and approved on Nov. 4.

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On Nov. 18, Port Washington resident Emily Bolwerk said she doesn't trust promises from the city, Vantage and We Energies that those concerns won't come to fruition.

"Data centers have been shown to increase utility rates, strain local utilities with high energy consumption, come up short on their economic promises, prolong the operation of fossil fuel plants and force trade-offs between energy and water efficiency," Bolwerk said, citing a July University of Michigan study.

At the Nov. 4 meeting, Port Washington resident Scott Lone echoed other residents who took issue with the TIF district.

"Let's be clear. A TID is public money," Lone said. "It's meant to help neighborhoods that need a boost to spark projects that otherwise wouldn't happen. This is global tech companies asking Port Washington to help fund their expansion.

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"That's not economic development. That's corporate welfare," he said.

Port Washington resident Scott Lone said the TIF district amounts to "corporate welfare," at the city's Nov. 4 Common Council meeting. He noted that OpenAI and Oracle were valued in the hundreds of billions of dollars.

West Bend resident Roxanne Ramirez highlighted the impact that AI tools, including OpenAI's ChatGPT, has already had across the country, referencing the effects of deepfakes and the death of Adam Raine, a 16-year-old California boy who first started using ChatGPT for homework. The AI platform later became a trusted companion that gave Raine step-by-step instructions he used to take his own life, according to reporting from the New York Times.

She also noted rumblings of an AI bubble, including from OpenAI's own Chief Executive Officer Sam Altman, who recently said as much in an interview with The Verge.

"This is an unregulated industry with real collateral damage in form of human lives," Ramirez said.

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Howard Miller is a data center technician with first-hand experience working inside a major Wisconsin data center project, namely the Microsoft project in Mount Pleasant.

"Based on past projects, we've seen costs overrun, unexpected utility upgrades and workforce interruptions that ultimately affect both the community and the workers," Miller said on Nov. 4. "In the field, we've seen plans change once construction begins."

Josephine Dorado, a Milwaukee resident who serves as director of AI Strategy for a healthcare provider platform, encouraged the city to adopt policies that hold Vantage and We Energies accountable to their promises and support state legislation that does the same.

She suggested the city codify greater transparency on energy cost-sharing between regular customers and Vantage; binding commitments to monthly public reports on water use; adding clauses to the development agreement that hold Vantage to their job promises; and independent verification of these results.

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The passionate remarks and volume of attendance at these meetings is why the city decided to hold them in a banquet center at a nearby Holiday Inn Express. It's also why the city has placed around a dozen police officers at each of these meetings.

Attendees of the City of Port Washington's Nov. 4 Common Council meeting, filled a Holiday Inn Express banquet hall to hear about and speak on the city using tax incremental financing for a $15 billion data center campus project.

Some Port Washington residents have submitted a petition city says will have no impact

On Nov. 13, a local citizen group, Great Lakes Neighbors United, submitted a petition to the city with over 1,000 signatures gathered from Port Washington residents within seven days of active circulation (there are roughly 13,000 people in the City of Port Washington, according to the U.S. Census).

The group says the petition would require the city to enact an ordinance requiring voter approval for large TIF districts or place the measure on the spring election ballot.

"This isnt just about one project, this is about the future of how our city makes decisions that affect every taxpayer," according to a press release from the group.

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Under state law, the city's clerk has 15 days to review the petition before submitting it to the Common Council, which would have 30 days to act on it.

On behalf of the group, Milwaukee-area attorney Joe Cincotta also filed an objection to the TID on Nov. 17.

The city's position is that the petition will have no impact on the project, according to a Nov. 18 informational pamphlet.

Port Washington residents Tracy Finch and Christine Le Jeune, organizers with Great Lakes Neighbors United, help gather signatures for a petition to oppose the TIF for the data center development in the northern portion of the city.

Support for the data center campus has grown among construction and engineering unions and Southeast Wisconsin business leaders

The project has also seen a growing number of vocal supporters, specifically Southeast Wisconsin business leaders and construction and engineering union workers who might help build the project.

On Nov. 4, those supporters included representatives of Vantage, Ozaukee Economic Development, Johnson Controls, Milwaukee 7, and the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local Union 494.

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"Growth can happen responsibly," Ozaukee Economic Development Executive Director Kathleen Schilling said. "The developer has committed to using energy efficient design, renewable power and sustainable practices that align with our environmental values."

They've reiterated Vantage's estimation that the project will only improve Wisconsin's energy infrastructure, add $2.7 million to the region's gross domestic product, create an estimated 4,000 construction jobs and an estimated 1,000 long-term jobs at the campus.

Vantage's Director of Public Policy in North America, Kaitlin Monaghan, speaks in support of Port Washington using tax incremental financing for its data center campus project at the city's Nov. 4 Common Council meeting.

City forges ahead with the project alongside TIF district approval

In the meantime, Port Washington officials have continued moving forward with plans for the project.

On Nov. 18, the city voted to discontinue a portion of Highland Drive that runs through the data center site. And on Nov. 11, the Design Review Board recommended approval of an amendment to the building, site and operations plan for the data center with minor changes.

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The new plan shows in detail three facilities not shown in detail on the initial plan, including a 40,000-square-foot operations center, a 50,000-square-foot warehouse and a 45-acre substation. The substation would be partially owned by Vantage and American Transmission Co.

The amendment will be reviewed by the Plan Commission on Nov. 20.

Contact Claudia Levens at clevens@gannett.com. Follow her on X at @levensc13.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Port Washington approves data center TIF as residents continue to raise red flags
Over the past ten months, the Los Angeles Fire Department has faced a lot of heat.

First, over how well it planned for the devastating winds that fueled the Palisades Fire.

More recently, questions have swirled about whether it properly watched the Lachman Fire burn scar days prior, which eventually sparked the massive disaster.

On Tuesday, the head of a civilian panel tasked with overseeing LAFD said the panel is failing to be a check on the department.

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"I can tell you that 10 years ago, it was a successful check," said Board of Fire Commissioners President Genethia Hudley-Hayes. "Do I think we are doing a good job now? No."

The Board of Fire Commissioners is made up of five civilians with a staff size of just one to audit LAFD. Hudley-Hayes wants to add three more staff members, including a special investigator.

"We are completely handicapped at this point," Hudley-Hayes told ABC7 On Your Side Investigates. "Those three positions are critical if, in fact, the city wants the Fire Commission to do its job."

But with new Fire Chief Jamie Moore in place, Hudley-Hays says this is still what she calls "the beginning" for the Commission.

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"What were you not getting from previous chiefs that you wanted to get?" asked ABC7 On Your Side Investigative Reporter Kevin Ozebek.

"We weren't getting anything," answered Hudley-Hayes. "When I made the request of Chief Crowly on whether or not she was going to do an after-action review, she declined to do one."

Moore promised to work with the Commission and told anyone inside LAFD who has concerns to come to him directly.

"We have no faith" in the Los Angeles City Fire Department to investigate itself. That's the message in a scathing letter claiming to be sent from both current and former LAFD firefighters.

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He addressed critical reporting, like stories ABC7 On Your Side Investigates has done on a letter claiming to be signed by "LAFD Chief Officers and Captains" saying they're "beyond ashamed" at department leadership since the L.A. Fires, and L.A. Times reporting that some firefighters who were at the Lachman mop-up have text messages showing they warned there were still hot spots at the burn scar.

"The audacity for people to make comments and say there are text messages out there that say that we did not put the fire out, that we did not extinguish the fire. Yet I have yet to see any of those text messages," Moore told Commissioners and those attending the meeting.

Mayor Karen Bass has tasked Moore with getting to the bottom of what happened at the Lachman scene.

She tells ABC7 on Your Side Investigates that Moore has these orders: "That he looks at the leadership from top to bottom and there is going to have to be significant evaluation and maybe even changes."

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Regarding that allegation from Hudley-Hayes that former Chief Crowley did not want to do an after-action review -- that was one of the reasons Bass cited for firing Crowley as chief.

Eyewitness News reached out to Crowley on Tuesday and has yet to get a response.

But, in a legal claim she has filed against the city, Crowley demands the city retract all false and defamatory statements against her. She also called her firing "retaliation" for speaking the truth.
Northland Power has signed a five-year power purchase agreement (PPA) with Shell Energy Europe, covering approximately one third of the output from the 332MW Nordsee One offshore wind farm.

Nordsee One covers around 41.3km in the North Sea within the German exclusive economic zone, and was commissioned in December 2017.

Northland Power holds an 85% ownership stake in the project, with RWE Offshore Wind holding the remaining 15%.

Powered by 54 turbines, Nordsee One produces enough electricity annually to meet the needs of more than 400,000 households.

The wind farm currently operates under the German Renewable Energy Sources Act regime, which is set to step down in 2027.

Under the new PPA, Shell will receive renewable electricity from Nordsee One for five years, supporting the companys energy transition objectives.

Northland Power president and CEO Christine Healy said: We are proud to supply Shell with power that advances their energy transition goals. Our Nordsee One offshore wind facility is producing renewable electricity for Europe, and we are leveraging that strength to continue delivering value from our portfolio.

Northland Power focuses on advancing the worlds energy transition through the development and operation of a portfolio of energy infrastructure assets. It is headquartered in Toronto, Canada, and operates offices in seven countries.

The company holds ownership or economic interest in 3.5GW of gross operating generation capacity, has 2.2GW under construction, and maintains a development pipeline with around 9GW of potential capacity.

In February this year, the construction of the Baltic Power offshore wind farm, a joint venture between Orlen Group and Northland Power, commenced with the installation of monopile foundations in the Baltic Sea.

"Northland Power signs five-year PPA with Shell for Nordsee One wind farm " was originally created and published by Power Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and Secretary of State Diego Morales give remarks during a pro-redistricting rally on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025, at the Indiana Statehouse. (Photo by Casey Smith/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

A few dozen Hoosiers gathered under the Indiana Statehouse rotunda Tuesday morning to call on lawmakers to approve new congressional district maps that could give Republicans a 9-0 advantage in the U.S. House delegation.

The event coincided with Organization Day, the ceremonial start of the 2026 legislative session, when lawmakers return to Indianapolis to set priorities for the months ahead.

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Many attendees wore stickers and held signs reading 9-0 and Lets get this done! Organizers also asked participants to fill out postcards urging their state senators to PLEASE SUPPORT REDISTRICTING.

The calls are part of a national movement among Republican activists and political leaders to demand that Indianas GOP-controlled General Assembly redraw the states congressional map so that all nine districts are represented by Republicans, instead of the current 7-2 split.

Supporters argue that Democrat-led states have drawn maps favorable to their own party and that Indiana should respond in kind.

But key Statehouse Republicans have rebutted.

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Senate GOP leadership announced last week that the caucus lacks the necessary votes to pass redistricting legislation and  despite an official special session order from the governor  will not convene in December to consider new maps.

The Senate chamber additionally voted on Tuesday to adjourn until Jan. 5  further refusing redistricting efforts.

Beckwith, Morales drop in

Gov. Mike Braun, Senate President Pro Tem Rodric Bray and House Speaker Todd Huston were just steps away at a separate Statehouse event on Tuesday. None appeared at the pro-redistricting gathering.

But Lt. Gov. Micah Beckwith and Secretary of State Diego Morales both made remarks, prompting short bursts of 9-0 chants from the crowd.

Supporters of redistricting gather at the Indiana Statehouse on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 2025. (Photo by Casey Smith/Indiana Capital Chronicle)

Redistricting is not a political stunt, Beckwith said. This is the most bipartisan issue on the face of the earth when you have Hakeem Jeffries, (U.S. Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez), Gavin Newsom, Donald Trump, Mike Braun, Micah Beckwith and Diego Morales all saying the same thing. This is the most bipartisan issue in America right now.

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We are standing up for a fair voice in Washington, D.C., and so we want the fair maps, he continued. We want the maps to be redrawn because places like Illinois, California and New England states are stealing our voice in D.C. Redistricting is the right thing to do. We should stand with the president, stand with the governor, and Im proud to do so.

Shortly after, Morales addressed the crowd, too, calling redistricting an urgent priority.

Republicans need to start acting like Republicans, Morales said. We didnt start this fight, but if we dont stand up now, we risk letting Washington drown Indianas voice.

The secretary of state emphasized that Indiana needs a nine-zero, America first delegation representing us in Congress.

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Zero hesitation, zero backing down  because the stakes are too high, Morales said. Show up. Stand up for fair maps. Stand up for President Trump and our Hoosier State.

We deserve to know where everyone stands

John and LeAnne Kendall of Hancock County said they attended the rally because they believe the issue affects both state and national representation. Their state senator, Mike Crider, has not publicly stated where he stands on redistricting, but he was among the senators who voted Tuesday to adjourn until January.

This is one of the most critical issues in our country right now, and we have a great opportunity in Indiana to make a difference  an impact in Congress  that will make sure everyone from this state is represented as they should be, John said. Indiana is an overwhelmingly Republican state.

LeAnne added that states have been badly gerrymandered by Democrats for too long, and said state senators need to get their act together and answer the call.

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They need to show up, and they need to vote, she continued. I think the votes are there.  And there would be a lot more yeses if they had to vote live, in front of all of us. We deserve to know where everyone stands, because this is what Hoosiers want.

Three statewide polls have found Hoosiers against redistricting.

Still, John pointed to Indianas most recent election results from November 2024, which he said was evidence that a majority of Hoosiers want solid Republican representation at both the state and federal levels.

We cant afford to have uncommitted, RINOs in office, John said, referring to an acronym that most commonly means Republican in name only.

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Republicans (in Indiana) deserve and demand a 9-0 map, he continued. Its anti-Republican and anti-American, in my view, for the people we put into office  in the Statehouse  to deny us that.

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A recent interaction between a journalist and President Donald Trump is going viral, but it is far from the first time he has had some harsh words for journalists.

Aboard Air Force One en route to Palm Beach, Florida, on Nov. 14, a reporter asked Trump a follow-up question about the files on Jeffrey Epstein.

Trump scolded her, pointing a finger toward her and leaning in as he said: "Quiet! Quiet, piggy."

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Trump has long decried the media, filed lawsuits against outlets over their coverage of him and snapped at reporters. Take a look back at some notable incidents:

More: Trump calls to revoke ABC's license after reporter asks about releasing Epstein files

Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands during a dinner in the East Room at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is hosting the Crown Prince for meetings aimed at strengthening economic and defense ties, including the U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. President Donald Trump speaks as he hosts a dinner for Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Cristiano Ronaldo attends a dinner hosted by U.S. President Donald Trump for Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, at the White House in Washington, DC Nov. 18, 2025. Guests attend an official dinner with US President Donald Trump and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Attendees gather for a dinner hosted by President Donald Trump for Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov.18, 2025. CEO of SpaceX and Tesla, South African-Canadian-US businessman Elon Musk, attends an official dinner with US President Donald Trump and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on Nov.18, 2025. Donald Trump Jr. attends a dinner hosted by President Donald Trump for Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman, at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. Guests gather for an official dinner with US President Donald Trump and Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. President Donald Trump speaks during an official dinner with Crown Prince and Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Mohammed bin Salman in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. President Donald Trump walks with first lady Melania Trump as they welcome Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia to the White House on Nov.18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is hosting the Crown Prince for meetings aimed at strengthening economic and defense ties, including the U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump wait to receive Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman for a dinner at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump welcome Saudi Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman to a dinner hosted by Trump at the White House in Washington, DC on Nov. 18, 2025. President Donald Trump and first lady Melania Trump greet Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is hosting the crown prince for meetings aimed at strengthening economic and defense ties, including the U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia. President Trump hosts Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia at black-tie dinner 1 of 13 Crown Prince and Prime Minister Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia and U.S. President Donald Trump shake hands during a dinner in the East Room at the White House on Nov. 18, 2025 in Washington, DC. Trump is hosting the Crown Prince for meetings aimed at strengthening economic and defense ties, including the U.S. sale of F-35 fighter jets to Saudi Arabia.

Watch: Video shows Trump tell female reporter 'quiet, piggy.'

Who did Trump call piggy?

Jennifer Jacobs, a CBS News White House reporter, was part of the pool traveling on Air Force One, per her social media posts. Video of the gaggle shows Trump calling on a "Jennifer" for a question shortly before turning to the other reporter and telling her, "quiet, piggy."

Jacobs' social media post says the other reporter Trump was addressing when he said quiet, piggy works at Bloomberg.

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A Bloomberg News spokesperson did not name the reporter, but told USA TODAY in a statement the outlet was focused on reporting with fairness and accuracy.

She has been identified by other outlets as Catherine Lucey.

Other reporter spats include Mary Bruce, Megyn Kelly, Yamiche Alcindor

In another heated exchange in the Oval Office on Nov. 18, a few days after the "quiet, piggy" comment, ABC News' Mary Bruce asked why Trump would not order the Epstein files to be released instead of waiting for the legislation to move through Congress.

"You know, it's not the question that I mind. It's your attitude. I think you are a terrible reporter," Trump said. "Its the way you ask these questions."

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Trump did not answer Bruces question and instead continued to lash out at the reporter.

"Its a Democrat hoax," Trump said, later adding: "I think the license should be taken away from ABC because your news is so fake and so wrong. And we have a great commissioner, a chairman, who should take a look at that." ABC News did not immediately respond to USA TODAYs request for comment on Nov. 18.

Trump's sharp words for reporters, especially women reporters, date back to even the beginning of his first presidential campaign. He spoke of Megyn Kelly, who had asked him at a Republican primary debate if he had a presidential temperament, later saying, "there was blood coming out of her eyes, blood coming out of her wherever."

In March 2020, Trump told White House correspondent Yamiche Alcindor, "Be nice. Don't be threatening." Earlier this year, he told a reporter asking about the TACO trade term on tariffs it was a "nasty question." In September, he was in a back-and-forth with a reporter trying to ask him a question, calling her "obnoxious," as she insisted, "I'm not obnoxious."

Trump hits media with lawsuits, too

Trump has previously filed lawsuits against the media that do not amount to anything. In one case, a judge ordered Trump to pay more than $392,000 in legal fees to the New York Times over a frivolous lawsuit. Here are some other recent lawsuits against media companies:

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The White House also announced in February it would control which outlets would be included in the press pool instead of the White House Correspondents' Association after a dispute with the Associated Press, which refused to update its guidance on the "Gulf of Mexico" to the "Gulf of America." Trump has also threatened legal action against the BBC.

(This story has been updated with additional information.)

Contributing: Reuters; David Jackson, Francesca Chambers, Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy, Zac Anderson, Joey Garrison, USA TODAY

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Kinsey Crowley is the Trump Connect reporter for the USA TODAY Network. Reach her at KCrowley@usatodayco.com. Follow her on X (Twitter), Bluesky and TikTok.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Quiet piggy,' 'terrible reporter,' Trump has said in reporter jabs
Brett Johnson made millions committing identity theft for a living before joining the Secret Service as a consultant.

The three rising cyber threats that alarm him most  deepfakes, scam farms, and synthetic IDs  are driven by AI.

He offers six ways to protect against fraud, including freezing your credit and setting up alerts.

Brett Johnson spent over a decade breaking into systems, stealing identities, and selling stolen credit cards on the dark web. He stole millions of dollars, often making over $100,000 a month through tax-return identity theft.

He's worked with the Secret Service and private companies as a consultant to help stop the kinds of crimes he once perpetrated. He told Business Insider's Carter Thallon in a recent interview that the crime world he helped invent is mutating into something harder to see  and almost impossible to stop.

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Cybercrime is becoming increasingly organized, and that's a problem, he said. The next wave of cybercrime will come from entire operations powered by artificial intelligence, where machines write the scams, fake the evidence, and even talk to the victims in real time.

Here are the three rising cyber threats that alarm him most.

1. The deepfake problem is only beginning

Johnson warns that there may be a future where we can't trust anything online. Courtesy of Brett Johnson

Johnson said deepfakes that convincingly mimic real people will become central to online fraud. Criminals already use them to forge voice messages and fake live video calls. Soon, this technology will make it impossible to trust what we see or hear online, Johnson said.

"In order for me to defraud you, I have to get you to trust me," he said. However, deepfakes enable criminals to essentially bypass the effort of gaining trust by posing as an already trustworthy person, accelerating the process of victimizing you.

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One finance clerk, last year, for example, was conned into approving overseas transfers amounting to more than $25 million, Shubham Agarwal reported for BI. The clerk had been instructed to do so during a video call that turned out to be full of deepfakes recreations of his real coworkers, including the organization's chief financial officer.

"We get to the point where we're no longer able to trust anything that we see or hear in an online environment, and that becomes really dangerous," he said.

That threat is compounded by the speed of AI tools, which can mimic speech patterns, create realistic faces, and write messages tailored to a target's personality.

2. Scam farms that run like corporations

Gone are the days when fraudsters acted alone, Johnson said. Scam farms are becoming the new norm.

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Scam farms are buildings packed with workers  who are often trafficked or forced into slave labor  running simultaneous cons.

Some of these operations specialize in "pig butchering," long-term relationship scams that drain victims' savings.

That's exactly what happened to Ahmet Tozal, who recently told BI's Matthew Loh of a relationship he built with a supposed woman online.

Over several weeks, the woman convinced him to invest over a year's worth of his wages into a cryptocurrency that didn't exist. He ultimately had to move from Turkey to Uzbekistan alone to find a higher salary to support his family.

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These scam farms are structured businesses, with workers rotating shifts and supervisors overseeing them. "That's something we didn't see back then," Johnson said about the time he was scamming people in the 90s and early 00s.

"Back then, you did see criminals working together, networking in a co-op type fashion. But these days it's much more organized," he added.

3. The rise of synthetic identities

Synthetic identity theft is almost impossible to stop. ismagilov/Getty Images

The same automation fueling deepfakes is driving identity fraud to a new level.

Johnson calls synthetic identity fraud  a blend of real and fake personal data used to create a new digital person  the No. 1 form of identity theft in the world.

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It's especially concerning because "synthetic fraud is almost invisible because that person doesn't really exist," he said, adding that "it's 80% of all new account fraud. It's 20% of all credit card chargebacks, 5% of all credit card debt. It's huge."

Once a fake identity establishes credit, it can be used to open bank accounts, apply for loans, or facilitate money laundering. Banks often discover the fraud only after the accounts vanish. If synthetic IDs continue to rise, it could make fraud detection exponentially harder.

How to protect yourself from fraud

It's more important than ever to take steps to protect yourself against fraud. VIJ/Getty Images

Fraud is easier to achieve now than ever before. "A criminal now doesn't have to understand any aspect of the crime. They can immediately buy tutorials, take live instruction classes, buy anything that they need online, and immediately start being successful and profitable at crime," Johnson said.

So it's important to know how to protect yourself. Johnson told BI's Manseen Logan earlier this year, six ways to lower your risk of hacking:

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Practice situational awareness online: Understand that every online platform has predators. Freeze the credit of everyone in your home, not just you: This can immediately stop any new account fraud. Place alerts on accounts where you can, so you know whenever they are used. Follow good password security: Never use the same password for any accounts. Set up multifactor authentication: When used with other tools, this can significantly boost your security. Careful what you share on social media: Scammers can easily pull sensitive information like your birthday and your mother's maiden name and use it to try to hack you.

Read the original article on Business Insider
State Sen. Mike Bousselot will not run for governor, he announced, and will instead seek election to retiring Sen. Jack Whitver's Senate seat in the Iowa Legislature.

"I have been overwhelmed by the outpouring of support and encouragement from Iowans regarding my potential campaign for governor," he said in a statement. "While visiting dozens of counties this summer, I heard the stories of optimism for our state and opportunity for their families. Ultimately, after prayer and reflection with my family, it is not the right time for me to pursue a run for governor."

Bousselot, a Republican, has served in Iowa Senate District 21 since winning a special election in 2021. It is a competitive Ankeny-based seat in Polk County, and he won election by a slim 2 percentage points in 2022.

State Sen. Mike Bousselot, R-Ankeny, speaks during Ashleys fifth annual BBQ Bash on Aug. 23, 2025, at Hawkeye Downs Speedway and Expo Center in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.

He announced in April he would explore a run for governor after Republican Gov. Kim Reynolds said she would not seek reelection. And he has made some campaign appearances at forums and meetings of conservative activists.

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But he said Wednesday, Nov. 19, he would forego a gubernatorial run and instead pursue reelection in an open Senate district that is safer for Republicans.

That seat, Senate District 23, stretches across parts of Polk and Dallas counties. Whitver won his 2022 reelection there by more than 17 percentage points.

But Whitver announced in September he would step down as majority leader and retire at the end of his term, leaving the seat open in 2026. He revealed in 2024 that he had been diagnosed with a brain tumor.

Whitver is supporting Bousselot's candidacy.

I am proud to support Mike Bousselot," Whitver said in a statement. "He is a humble, hard-working legislator who listens to his constituents and serves his district and the state well.

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More: A divided party: How a pipeline fight is shaking up the GOP primary race for governor

Bousselot, 42, is an attorney. He has chaired the Commerce Committee in the Iowa Senate and serves on the Judiciary, State Government, Appropriations and Ways and Means committees.

Before being elected to the Senate, he served one term in the Iowa House.

Bousselot also previously worked for former Gov. Terry Branstad as a policy adviser and chief of staff. He also led the Iowa Department of Management under Reynolds and worked for Summit Agricultural Group as managing director and head of external relations.

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The Republican gubernatorial primary field is crowded. State Rep. Eddie Andrews, U.S. Rep. Randy Feenstra, businessman Zach Lahn, former state Rep. Brad Sherman and former Department of Administrative Services Director Adam Steen are running.

On the Democratic side, state auditor Rob Sand and political consultant Julie Stauch have formed campaigns.

Brianne Pfannenstiel is the chief politics reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at bpfann@dmreg.com or 515-284-8244. Follow her on X at @brianneDMR.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: Mike Bousselot to seek retiring Sen. Jack Whitver's legislative seat
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California Republicans, now joined by the Trump administrations Department of Justice, have sued California in federal court to stop implementation of Proposition 50, a voter-passed ballot measure that creates a Democratic gerrymander of the states congressional districts, adding up to five more Democratic seats. The lawsuit argues that the Legislature had an unconstitutional race-focused intent on the states Latino voters when it passed the maps. In fact, whatever the Legislature intended should be irrelevant to the Republicans claim, and they likely will lose because California voters were acting with a predominantly political, not racial, intent.

If Republicans lose the Prop 50 lawsuit and the United States Supreme Court does not interfere with a new federal district court ruling putting Texas new gerrymander on hold for 2026, Democrats could have an advantage going into 2026, even as the Supreme Court contemplates even more changes in redistricting rules in its pending case out of Louisiana.

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The Republicans main argument in Tangipa v. Newsom is that the California Legislature violated the Fourteenth and Fifteenth Amendments to the Constitution when it drew new congressional district lines based on race, specifically to favor Hispanic voters, without cause or evidence to justify it. Plaintiffs in particular argue that 16 California congressional districts are unconstitutional racial gerrymanders in violation of the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment.

To succeed on such a claim, a plaintiff first must show that when a state drew district lines it made race the predominant factor in doing so, and second that no compelling reason justified it. When a state makes political considerations, traditional districting criteria, or something else the predominant factor in drawing the lines rather than race, a racial gerrymandering claim fails on the first prong.

The Supreme Court has decided many racial gerrymandering cases that turn on the question of whether race or politics predominated in drawing district lines. Indeed, that is one of the issues in a high-profile case currently at the Supreme Court, Louisiana v. Callais. In that case, as one of us explained over the summer, the Supreme Court is trying to determine whether race or party predominated when Louisiana drew a second congressional district where the states Black voters could elect their candidate of choice. On reargument in October, the court also considered, under the second prong, whether any remedial racial predominance to fix a racial gerrymander could be justified by compliance with the Voting Rights Actor, more ominously, whether the Voting Rights Act itself is unconstitutional. That case remains pending, and assuming the court in Callais continues to recognize racial gerrymandering as unconstitutional, it should not have a direct effect on the California case.

The Republicans complaint in California will likely focus on evidence regarding the supposed intent of members of the state Legislature and particularly the intent of Paul Mitchell, a redistricting consultant who drew the new lines for the Legislature. Republicans argue that the evidence shows that racial considerations predominated in drawing those lines. Its a tough argument to make, because the Legislature seemed motivated to do a Democratic partisan gerrymander to counter Texas partisan gerrymander of congressional maps favoring Republicans. Any racial considerations were simply to make sure that the new proposed maps did not violate the Voting Rights Act, as it currently stands.

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But there is a far more serious threat to Republicans argument about racial predominancethey may be focusing on the wrong actors intent. To understand this argument, we need to look at the kind of law Proposition 50 was. Back in 2008 and 2010, California voters adopted plans through voter initiatives to have redistricting done by independent commissions, not the Legislature. Under the California Constitution, the Legislature could not simply pass its own law reversing the voter-approved use of commissions for the states congressional districts. Instead, the Legislature had to authorize a ballot measure to be approved or rejected by voters suspending use of the commission-drawn lines for Congress. Proposition 50 asked voters to approve the new maps that Mitchell drew and the Legislature proposed, maps that would only come into effect if California voters approved. This is key: Because California voters were the ultimate decision-makers, we should be asking in any racial gerrymandering case if California voters, not the state Legislature, had a predominantly racial focus.

So how to prove the intent of the voters? After all, voters dont meet like a legislature in a great hall and debate the finer points of legislation. Under California law, courts look first to the text of a ballot measure. When that text does not unambiguously disclose the electorates intent, courts next look to official ballot materials to clarify the electorates understanding of the measures impact. These materials can include the official summaries of the impact, which the California attorney general is required to prepare, or text included in the voter information guide, also known as the ballot pamphlet mailed to every registered voter in California. Indeed, the California Supreme Court has held in the analogous context of interpreting the meaning of a voter initiative that the opinion of drafters or legislators who sponsor an initiative is not relevant since such opinion does not represent the intent of the electorate and we cannot say with assurance that the voters were aware of the drafters intent. As another California appeals court wrote in 2005, the only materials for courts to look at when it comes to voter intent are those ballot materials.

With respect to Proposition 50, the California ballot materials show exclusively partisan intentions. Beginning with the quick-reference guide at the very start of the 2025 ballot pamphlet, voters were met with a set of explicitly partisan arguments. The quick-reference guide provided an argument in support of Proposition 50 on the grounds that it would counter Donald Trumps scheme to rig next years congressional election. Meanwhile, the quick-reference guide describes Proposition 50 as follows: AUTHORIZES TEMPORARY CHANGES TO CONGRESSIONAL DISTRICT MAPS IN RESPONSE TO TEXAS PARTISAN REDISTRICTING. It also includes an argument against adoption on the grounds that Proposition 50 would remove protections that ban maps designed to favor political parties. Neither argument identifies nor even alludes to racial considerations. Instead, concerns over partisan advantage predominate. Likewise, the attorney generals summary (included in the ballot pamphlet) describes Proposition 50 as a response to Texas mid-decade partisan redistricting. (Importantly, nothing in the Proposition requires Texas gerrymander to be upheld for Proposition 50 to remain in effect.)

Further down, the ballot pamphlet also contains an analysis by the California Legislative Analysts Office, a nonpartisan body responsible for, among other things, analyzing the impact of ballot measures. The Legislative Analysts Offices analysis of Proposition 50 addresses the background events motivating Proposition 50, describing the unusual nature of mid-decade redistricting and explaining the impact of Proposition 50 as adopting new maps drawn in compliance with federal law, but without the limitations otherwise imposed by California law on the redistricting commission. The analysis notes projected fiscal impacts, and the propositions call for federal redistricting reform but does not comment on the potential partisan impacts of Proposition 50s proposed maps; the analysis likewise does not mention race once.

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Finally, the ballot pamphlet contains two pages (approximately 1,473 words) of double-column arguments for and against adoption of Proposition 50. In favor of adoption, a statement submitted by Gov. Gavin Newsom and other California Democrats describes the purpose of Proposition 50 as ensuring Californians arent silenced by partisan gerrymandering in other states and calls on voters to STOP TRUMP FROM RIGGING THE 2026 ELECTION. Newsoms statement does not mention race, aside from a passing reference to Californias diverse communities, which he claims will be fairly represented by Proposition 50. Likewise, the argument against Proposition 50 contained in the ballot pamphlet urges voters to reject the ballot measure not because it will constitute a racial gerrymander, but rather because it would put politicians back in charge of drawing their own districts, or those of their friends. In other words, voters should oppose the measure because it would enable partisan gerrymandering. Among the arguments and rebuttals included in the ballot pamphlet, the sole appeal to racial considerations comes from the rebuttal to Newsoms argument in favor of the measure, which claims that the redistricting commission should not be suspended because its maps have led to Better Representation, shown by the fact that Asian representation tripled, Black representation nearly doubled, and Latino seats grew by 8% since the commission was established.

In the face of the overwhelming partisan appeals contained in each element of the ballot pamphlet, it will be difficult for a court to conclude that California voters had racial, rather than partisan, intentions in adopting Proposition 50. This conclusion should not come as a surprise to those who followed the campaign surrounding Proposition 50, which featured extensive partisan appeals for and against the ballot measure.

Whether or not California voters were justified in fighting fire with fire by engaging in a Democratic partisan gerrymander to counter Republicans partisan gerrymander in Texasand if the Texas plan is blocked and the California plan upheld, Donald Trump will have made things far worse for Republicansthe point here is that it was California voters who made the ultimate call. And the evidence leaves no doubt they were acting as naked partisans, not motivated at all by the racial considerations necessary to make out a claim for racial gerrymandering as the Supreme Court has explained it.
A few Rhode Island hospitals are considered among the safest in the country, according to a new Leapfrog study, but not all of them earned high marks.

The healthcare nonprofit just released its fall 2025 Hospital Safety Grades for facilities nationwide, highlighting nine hospitals in Rhode Island.

The Leapfrog Group is a 25-year-old nonprofit working to improve hospital safety and quality across the country. Twice a year, it publishes its Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grades, rating U.S. general hospitals on patient safety factors such as infection rates, surgical complications, safety issues, and error prevention.

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Of the Rhode Island hospitals, four received an "A" grade, one was given a "B" grade, three got a "C" grade, and one received a "D" grade for fall 2025.

Here are the medical centers Leapfrog deemed the safest and least safe in Rhode Island.

Which hospitals are the safest in Rhode Island?

Of the nine Rhode Island hospitals included in Leapfrog's study, four received an "A" grade for safety:

Newport Hospital  Newport

The Miriam Hospital  Providence

Rhode Island Hospital  Providence

Westerly Hospital  Westerly

Which hospital was deemed the least safe in Rhode Island?

While no Rhode Island hospitals received an "F" grade, one was given a "D" grade for safety by Leapfrog:

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Roger Williams Medical Center  Providence

Leapfrog does not grade VA hospitals, critical access hospitals, specialty hospitals, children's hospitals, or outpatient surgery centers, the organization noted on its website.

Why was Roger Williams Medical Center given a 'D' grade?

Leapfrog gave Roger Williams Medical Center a "D" after the hospital performed below average on several measures, including MRSA and urinary tract infection rates, patient falls and injuries, collapsed lungs, handwashing, and safe medication administration.

Other areas where the hospital fell short included communication about medicines, doctors ordering medications through a computer, and specially trained doctors caring for ICU patients, the report said.

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Miguel Legoas of the Savannah Morning News contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Leapfrog gives 4 RI hospitals 'A' grade for safety, 1 given 'D' grade
Richmond County Schools has been awarded a $42 million grant from North Carolinas Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund to construct a new elementary school on the site of LJ Bell Elementary, officials said.

Welcomed change: Renovated Richmond County high school makes room for 9th graders, new facilities

The grant is part of a statewide initiative to address critical facility needs in economically distressed counties. Richmond County was one of 10 districts selected for this years awards, which total more than $392 million statewide.

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This is an amazing opportunity for our district and our community, said Dr. Joe Ferrell, superintendent of Richmond County Schools. This grant allows us to create a facility that will meet the needs of students for generations.

The new elementary school will replace LJ Bell Elementary, which was built in 1952 and has outdated mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems that have exceeded their expected lifecycle.

The current infrastructure is beyond its useful life, and the building cannot support the demands of modern education.

Architects and engineers from Moseley worked closely with the district to evaluate several elementary schools and identify the greatest need.

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After a review, LJ Bell was selected for replacement.The new facility will provide flexible learning spaces, improved technology integration, and a modern environment designed to support instructional programs and student achievement, district officials said.

Planning for the new school will begin immediately, with updates shared regularly with families and stakeholders.

Awards from the Needs-Based Public School Capital Fund are capped at $42 million for elementary school projects, $52 million for middle school projects, and $62 million for high school projects.

With the new funding, Richmond County Schools aims to enhance educational outcomes and provide a modern learning environment for students.

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This project will benefit families, educators, and the entire community for years to come, said Board of Education Chair Cory Satterfield.

VIDEO: Renovated Richmond County high school makes room for 9th graders, new facilities
Attorney General Dana Nessel speaks about food security and SNAP at a roundtable in Lansing. Nov. 18, 2025. | Photo by Katherine Dailey/Michigan Advance.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel held a roundtable with the Michigan League for Public Policy on Tuesday afternoon to discuss food security, specifically impacts of the lapse of SNAP during the federal government shutdown and the continuing attacks on the food aid program.

Advocates at the roundtable represented a number of groups, from the Midwest Independent Retailers Association to the Disability Network of Michigan, but all emphasized a similar underlying point  that SNAP and federal food assistance programs are necessary to ensure that people have enough food to eat.

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Families who are on these programs deserve dignity, said Terrell Couch, the coalitions director at Detroit-based family and mother advocacy group Mothering Justice. They deserve the opportunity for economic justice, and they deserve the opportunity to thrive in Michigan.

SNAP benefits had been paused for the month of November during the federal government shutdown, though federal legal action by Nessel and other Democratic state attorneys general led some contingency funding to be released to partially fund the program, which has since restarted now that a federal budget has passed.

But changes to the program are still forthcoming  most recently, a change put forth by U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins that would require every recipient of SNAP benefits to re-apply. That policy has not been officially put forward, though Nessel noted during the roundtable that if it did, her office would consider legal action against it.

Attorney General Dana Nessel and Assistant Attorney General Neil Giovanatti listen to advocates speaking about food security and SNAP at a roundtable in Lansing. Nov. 18, 2025. | Photo by Katherine Dailey/Michigan Advance.

Its a lose-lose situation in so many ways, and we cant have a functioning, healthy society if people are desperate, said Jen Schaap, the food & farming program director at the Groundwork Center for Resilient Communities.

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One criticism of the SNAP program nationally is errors in the administration of the program, which could result in either overpayment or underpayment of benefits. Michigans error rate for SNAP in 2024 stood at 9.53%  below the national rate, but above the 6% threshold that states are supposed to meet.

Neil Giovanatti, an assistant attorney general under Nessel in charge of the Federal Accountability Unit, noted that the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, who manage the program, are working to lower that rate  but that an overwhelming surge of federal changes is actually making it worse.

The barrage of actions from FNS [the Food and Nutrition Service] that is being taken against states that appear to be intentionally designed to force states to have high error rates, he said. That appears to be an intentional action by FNS to create this problem for the states.

A number of the advocates present at the roundtable expressed that the threats to SNAP are part of a broader attack on the lives of low-income Americans.

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This is the beginning as to what we believe is a campaign to create destabilization among folks who are low-income, said Sarah Prout Rennie, the senior director of advocacy and engagement for the Michigan Coalition Against Homelessness. Peoples lives will be lost.

We view this as another piece of anti-immigrant legislation, that theyre really trying to starve our community out in more ways than one, added Cindy Gamboa, the executive director of MI Poder, a Latinx advocacy group.

So when we have the government, for one reason or another, cut off these programs, theyre essentially just taking our money. And it really begs the question, why are we paying federal taxes, if then the moneys not going to come back to us?

 Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel

The importance of food access, across the board, was driven home by Nessel throughout the roundtable.

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I dont know whats more important than people having the ability to eat, she said.

And crucially, Nessel added, though they work hard, food banks and charities cannot sustain adequate food assistance at the same magnitude of a federal program like SNAP, calling it misinformation to say that they would be able to take care of the problem.

Food pantries cant keep up, Gamboa said. Ive seen mile-long food lines of people lining up to get boxes from Gleaners [Community Food Bank in Detroit] in my community.

Other roundtable participants stressed the importance of SNAP funding on local retailers and farmers, many of whom rely on customers using SNAP dollars to make ends meet.

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Every dollar invested in local farms and markets returns to our communities many times over, in jobs, local economic activity, healthier families and strengthened food security, noted Joe Lesausky, Food Access Director at the Michigan Farmers Market Association. Farmers are ready to grow the food we need. Farmers markets are ready to distribute it. Our communities are ready to support a stronger local food community. What we need now is the commitment to ensure that the funding and policy keep pace with the realities farmers are facing.

Because SNAP pays for itself, I really want people to realize that this is an intentional attack on folks who are in poverty, who are homeless, and who are insecurely housed, Rennie added, referencing statistics from Jerry Griffin of the Midwest Independent Retailers Association on how SNAP money being paid into local retailers produces about $1.80 into local economies per dollar of SNAP funding spent.

We cannot have food security without farmer security, Lesausky continued.

Data security was a concern among participants as well, as it was at another roundtable hosted in Grand Rapids last week by Nessels office. Those concerns are especially significant among immigrant populations, and Nessels team has previously been granted a preliminary injunction blocking data-sharing of SNAP recipient information with the Department of Homeland Security.

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People need to feel comfortable that when theyre accessing these resources that are not only important for them, but also for the state, that their data is not being used against them, that theyre able to have some safety in using these programs, said Rima Meroueh, the director of the National Network for Arab American Communities at ACCESS.

Food insecurity is not new, but now with these threats and quite frankly, attacks on our community, our community does not know who to trust, Gamboa added.

Nessel expressed frustration with the federal government not properly disbursing funding for federal programs, including SNAP, that are congressionally appropriated and required to go to states.

This was our money to begin with, Nessel said. Here we are, paying well over $30 billion a year to the federal government. So when we have the government, for one reason or another, cut off these programs, theyre essentially just taking our money. And it really begs the question, why are we paying federal taxes, if then the moneys not going to come back to us?
For the second time in three weeks, a Davis County general contracting company once accused of labor trafficking has filed a lawsuit against former Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes and his team that brought criminal charges against the company.

On Oct. 28, the owners of Rubicon Contracting LLC and its and parent company, Scandia, filed a federal complaint against Reyes and others alleging abuse of power. On Tuesday, 38 employees of Rubicon, Scandia and Smart Rain  including company presidents, vice presidents, a CEO  filed their own lawsuit in state court against Reyes, his former chief investigator Leo Lucey, investigator Michael Jeter and lead prosecutor Kaytlin Beckett.

The 3rd District Court lawsuit alleges that employees were publicly linked to manufactured criminal allegations that were later dismissed, resulting in significant harm to their personal and professional lives, according to a prepared statement from Rubicon.

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Every person has the right to be judged on facts  not headlines, Rubicon employee Dario Benitez, said in a statement. Our careers, reputations and families were affected in ways that cant simply be undone by a dismissal. This filing is about setting the record straight and ensuring that the human impact of these decisions is acknowledged and addressed.

In November 2023, the founders and five executive members of Rubicon Contracting were charged with multiple counts each of aggravated human trafficking by the Utah Attorney Generals Office. The group was accused of recruiting about 150 people from Mexico to work for the company using H-2B visas. But once in Utah, charging documents alleged that the victims were paid very little and forced to live in deplorable housing provided by Rubicon, while also being forced to pay rent under the threat of deportation.

In July 2024, however, the judge presiding over the case called for a Franks hearing for five of the 10 search warrants served by Jeter and used to collect evidence in the case, noting that statements made by Jeter to obtain the warrants were knowingly false or, at a minimum, made with a reckless disregard for the truth.

A Franks hearing is held when it is believed that investigators made false statements or significant omissions in their affidavit submitted to the judge, that was used to get a search warrant approved.

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Then, during a contentious hearing in December of 2024, 2nd District Judge Rita Cornish pressed Beckett on whether the case was vastly overcharged and asked prosecutors multiple times to come up with specific evidence that all seven individuals charged committed 14 acts of human trafficking each.

I am thoroughly frustrated, and I am trying really hard to dig deep and find where the state has met its burden," Cornish sternly told Beckett.

Not long after that hearing, the charges were dismissed at the request of the attorney generals office because of a pending federal investigation.

The Civil Rights Division-Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit of the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Securitys Center for Counter Human Trafficking has initiated a federal investigation into the matter. The state of Utah now defers to the Department of Justice and their pending investigation, and moves to dismiss the pending state litigation without prejudice, prosecutors wrote in their motion.

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The status of that investigation was unknown as of Tuesday.

In the new lawsuit filed Tuesday, employees accuse the attorney generals office of negligence, vicarious liability, violation of due process, unreasonable search and violating open courts rules. The group says it is seeking accountability and some degree of recompense for the real harm they have suffered.

When government agents abused their power and violated the law to attack a Utah company for political purposes, the loyal workers in this state suffered direct harm. It was known and foreseeable that when government agents submitted materially false and misleading affidavits, and then invited the news media to film the raid, that the businesses employing Utah citizens would be crippled and their employees would suffer serious financial harm, the lawsuit contends.

The employees say if search warrant affidavits written by investigators had been truthful, a judge never would have approved them.

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The execution of the unlawful and unsupported warrants, however, revealed no evidence of violations of the law. (The attorney generals office) filed charges against the owners of Rubicon immediately anyway using the same false statements in the affidavits allegedly supporting the warrants, but with no additional evidence obtained from the searches. (Their) conduct caused widespread negative publicity, with foreseeable, indeed expectable, serious economic consequences, according to the lawsuit.

The employees are seeking punitive and compensatory damages, including lost wages, lost compensation and emotional distress, the lawsuit states.

As of Tuesday, Reyes had not filed his response in court to the first lawsuit.
Russia appears to be using an updated version of another Iranian-designed drone against Ukrainian forces, according to Ukrainian electronic warfare expert Serhii Flash Beskrestnov. Dubbed the Shahed-107, it seems clear that its intended to provide an affordable means of conducting mid-range precision drone strikes beyond the immediate front lines, filling a major hole in Russian offensive strike capabilities.

While not every detail is known about the Shahed-107, it is a loitering/standoff strike munition that can travel a sizeable distance and persist over a target before attacking. Its deployment comes as Russia is stepping up its use of lower-end drones with greater endurance than their smaller FPV-like counterparts to put Ukrainian targets, and especially logistics hubs, well behind the forward line of troops (FLOT) under major threat.

Images of a Shahed-107 drone recovered by Ukrainian forces. (Via X)

Increasingly, the use of a new type of Shahed-107 is being recorded in frontline zones, Beskrestnov wrote on Telegram Monday. The UAVs were produced in 2024 in Iran and it can be assumed that the Russians will continue to produce this UAV on the territory of Russia.

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Thats a similar production trajectory to the Iranian-made Shahed-136 long-range one-way attack drones, which have become Russias go-to standoff strike weapon. As we have reported in the past, they were first designed and produced in Iran, but Russia established a factory aiming to produce 6,000 Shahed-136 drones per month. The Shahed-107 is a smaller and simpler weapon, making it easier to produce and more free to use, although it does not have the range or punch of a Shahed-136.

John Hardie, deputy director of the Russia program for the Foundation for the Defense of Democracies, noted on X that based on leaked documents, Moscow indicated its interest in producing the Shahed-107 at its Alabuga plant. As we noted earlier in this story, thats where it is making the larger, delta-winged Shahed-136 drones.

Photos of an Iranian Shahed-107 loitering munition reportedly recovered in Ukraine, posted by Ukrainian expert Serhii "Flash" Beskrestnov. He said it was produced in 2024, carries an 8-9kg warhead and a four-element CRPA, and has an estimated flight range of several hundred km. pic.twitter.com/LGpHvKKaKb  John Hardie (@JohnH105) November 17, 2025

A short video reportedly showing one of these munitions can be seen below.

For the first time, the Iranian Shahed-107 loitering munition (suicide drone) has been spotted in Ukrainian airspace. pic.twitter.com/JDHdtpCkMY  OSINTWarfare (@OSINTWarfare) November 17, 2025

Beskrestnov acknowledged that the Shahed-107 has not yet been fully studied.

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What is known, he said, is that it has a warhead weighing between 8 and 9 kilograms (about 18 to 20 pounds) with a flight range of several hundred kilometers.

The UAV is navigated based on a 4-element CRPA [Controlled Reception Pattern Antenna for GPS/GLONASS], Beskrestnov noted.

Landmines and Coffee, a Ukrainian Telegram channel focusing on weapons development, offered a few more details about the Shahed-107, which it calls the Shahed-101. The images posted on that channel on Nov. 14 match what Beskrestnov published.

The Shahed-107 is a more advanced version of the Shahed-101 that Iranian proxy Hezbollah began to use against Israeli forces in June 2024 and appeared a year earlier in Iraq.

DIAs display features a side-by-side comparison of Iranian Shahed-131 UAVs recovered in Iraq and Ukraine, and reveals the Shahed-101, a system that has so far only appeared in the Middle East. Together, these systems represent the broader threat of Irans UAV program. pic.twitter.com/SkocX3LEV4  DIA (@DefenseIntel) August 24, 2023

The new Shahed is usually launched using a static launch system (catapult), Landmines and Coffee noted. It is also reported to have a flight range of 800 km (about 500 miles)a maximum altitude of 3,000 m (about 9,800 feet), and a cruising speed of 120 km/h (about 75 mph). The maximum speed is currently unknown, Landmines and Coffee suggested.

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The guidance method is also unknown but is assumed to be a combination of inertial guidance and GPS, the Telegram channel noted.

Landmines and Coffee said that the Shahed-107 is about five feet long, has a wingspan of about eight feet and weighs a total of about 60 pounds.

We cannot independently verify any of the claims about the Shahed-107 and clearly, the range figures differ greatly based on the source.

The images posted online show that this drone has a cylindrical fuselage with rectangular wings mounted on top about midway between the nose and tail. It has a distinctive rear tail fin mounted in an X configuration. Unlike the earlier variant, which has an electric motor, the Shahed-107 uses a piston engine. While that increases the weapons range, it also increases its acoustic and thermal signature, making it easier to detect.

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The images of the Shahed-107 bear a similarity in configuration to a number of fixed-wing drone systems, including the U.S.-made Disruptor drone. It was part of the secretive Aevex Phoenix Ghost family of loitering munitions first developed for the U.S. Air Force and supplied to Ukraine in its ongoing fight against Russia. You can read more about these munitions in our story here.

The Iranian-designed Shahed-107 appears eerily similar to the AEVEX-made Disruptor loitering munition, seen in this photo. (Jamie Hunter)

The official Iranian Mehr news outlet reported that officials in Tehran unveiled the Shahed-107 in June.

Images of Shahed-107 indicate that it is equipped with a piston engine that allows the aircraft to fly at a range of over 1,500 kilometers (about 930 miles), Mehr claimed, a figure that far exceeds the estimated range suggested by Beskrestnov and Landmines and Coffee. The employment of a swarm of Shahed-107 drones can cause significant harm to the Zionist regimes air defense capabilities.

Shahed 107 www.mehrnews.com

Good photos Iranian kamikaze drones Shahed-107, Shahed-136 and its turbojet variant in one of the IRGC-ASF underground bases. pic.twitter.com/b4zQJ4uTPp  Yuri Lyamin (@imp_navigator) June 16, 2025

Interestingly, it appears that Shahed-101/107s, or similarly configured drones, were part of a massive haul of Iranian weapons bound for the Houthis but interdicted by the Yemeni National Resistance Forces in June.

Interesting, among others it seems there new unknown Iranian light cruise missile + Ghaem-118 surface-to-air missiles and Shahed-101/107 kamikaze drones.https://t.co/ANakkqfrKV pic.twitter.com/yIBaymS83y  Yuri Lyamin (@imp_navigator) July 16, 2025

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News about the increased sightings of the Shahed-107s comes as Russia is focusing greater attention on using one-way attack drones to strike over medium ranges, beyond the FLOT.

Until mid-2025, Russian UAV activity focused mainly on targeting Ukrainian troops near the FLOT, while Ukrainians tried to strike Russian forces before they could engage, independent defense analyst Konrad Muzyka recently noted.

The elite Russian Rubicon drone unit changed this pattern entirely: operating 1020 km into the rear, it now targets not only support elementsmany of which rely heavily on UAVsbut also the core capabilities Ukraine depends on for its defense, Muzyka posited. Since then, Russian employment of drones has continued to evolve. Maneuver formations now use better-organized UAV-supported tactics, engaging Ukrainian units up to 10 km deep while Rubicon maintains pressure on the rear. This has created a dynamic in which Ukrainian losses among logistics personnel and drone crews now exceed those among infantry  though it must be stressed that infantry numbers are heavily depleted.

Another highly insightful battlefield update from @konrad_muzyka. Russian drone use vs Ukraine's rear "has created a dynamic in which Ukrainian losses among logistics personnel and drone crews now exceed those among infantry" https://t.co/UuBB5STv8s  Shashank Joshi (@shashj) November 17, 2025

As we wrote recently, Russia has started to use larger, longer-range Shahed-136s against dynamic targets, like trains, beyond the FLOT in a limited capacity. These Shaheds have been modified for these missions, including the use of man-in-the-loop guidance to hunt for and kill targets of opportunity and those that are on the move. Traditionally, the Shahed-136s are used to hit static targets over great distances using fire and forget GPS/INS navigation. The Shahed-107 bridges the gap between the long-range Shahed-136s and shorter-range FPVs and bomber drones.

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If Shahed-107s become more widely used, Russia will have a weapon tailored for these midrange attacks that can be configured for going after dynamic or static targets and that can be produced en masse far cheaper and more easily deployed than the Shahed-136. That reduces the need to commit the larger and more costly drones, which are still highly valued, or other standoff weapons, for certain targets.

Compounding the problems for Ukraine, the Shahed-107s will likely become far more dangerous as AI gets more deeply infused in lower-end drones, allowing them to search for targets of opportunity autonomously without anyone at the controls.

Ukrainian military officials acknowledge that Russia has increased its drone targeting beyond the FLOT. This is particularly true in and around the embattled eastern Ukraine city of Pokrovsk.

The Russian army is actively working to disrupt the logistics of the Defense Forces on the Pokrovsk direction in the Donetsk region, Yulia Stepanyuk, spokesperson for the 117th Separate Heavy Mechanized Brigade, said Sunday. Reconnaissance drones monitor the movement routes of Ukrainian units; near the roads, loitering munitions drones are deployed that await transport to strike.

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We will have to see if Russia expands its use of Shahed-107s and in what manner, although it will likely seek to do so. It would fill a glaring capability gap that could become a major problem for Ukraine in areas that have historically been less vulnerable to aerial attacks.

Contact the author: howard@thewarzone.com
Nvidia's (NVDA) latest AI partnership with Microsoft (MSFT) and Anthropic underscores the chipmaker's torrid pace of dealmaking this year, even as circular artificial intelligence agreements have set off alarm bells among investors.

Nvidia invested $23.7 billion in firms in the space through 59 deals between the start of 2025 and Monday, according to Pitchbook data. For the entirety of 2024, Nvidia inked a total of 54 deals worth $22.8 billion.

Nvidias investments in AI firms  totaling roughly $53 billion and amounting to 170 deals between 2020 and 2025  span the entire AI ecosystem, ranging from large language model developers such as OpenAI (OPAI.PVT) and Cohere (COHR.PVT) to neoclouds like Lambda (LAMD.PVT) and CoreWeave (CRWV), which specialize in AI services and compete with the chipmakers Big Tech customers.

Nvidia investments in AI between 2020 and 2025 (Pitchbook).

In the deal announced Tuesday, Nvidia and Microsoft will invest up to $10 billion and as much as $5 billion, respectively, in AI developer Anthropic (ANTH.PVT). Anthropic will buy $30 billion of compute capacity from Microsoft Azure, and Anthropic and Nvidia will collaborate on design and engineering, the companies said.

The partnership follows Nvidia's $6.6 billion investment in OpenAI in October and a $6 billion investment in Elon Musks xAI (XAAI.PVT) in November, per Pitchbook. Nvidia has committed to investing up to $100 billion in OpenAI in an eye-popping deal this September that sent its stock higher.

'Very murky' deals

The heaping pile of cash Nvidia has poured into AI startups is a sign of how the chipmaker has looked to strengthen its grip on the market following the launch of ChatGPT in 2022, which brought generative artificial intelligence mainstream. Nvidia is the dominant AI chipmaker whose GPUs (graphics processing units) are crucial to training and running AI models.

But analysts and investors are beginning to question the nature of some of Nvidias AI investments in its own customers. Tech stocks have sold off in recent days amid concerns of a market bubble driven by artificial intelligence hype.

It's very murky, Seaport analyst Jay Goldberg, who holds a rare Sell rating on Nvidia stock, said of the chipmaker's investment in OpenAI. The investment, announced in September, is part of a partnership in which OpenAI would purchase a ton of Nvidia chips  the AI developer has committed to deploying "at least 10 gigawatts" of compute capacity from Nvidia's AI systems to train and run its next generation of artificial intelligence models.

Read more: How does Nvidia make money?
Russia's UAC said it just delivered two export models of its Su-57 fighter to a foreign buyer.

The fifth-generation jets are meant to rival the F-35 and F-22, but Russia has a limited number of them.

The announcement comes as the West has tried to restrict Russia's military industrial base for years.

Russia's primary aircraft manufacturer said on Monday that it had delivered two Su-57 fighters to a foreign buyer, marking the first time the fifth-generation jet was sent to another country's military.

Vadim Badekha, the CEO of United Aircraft Corporation, said on Channel One, a Russian state-owned TV channel, that a "foreign partner" had received the aircraft.

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"They have begun combat duty and are demonstrating their best qualities," Badekha said. "Our customer is satisfied."

Badekha did not name the customer. Russia's state-owned arms exporter, Rosoboronexport, first said in November 2024 that it had reached a deal with at least one foreign buyer to sell Su-57s, but did not name the partner country, either.

In February, Algeria's state media reported that its government was one such buyer, and that Algerian pilots were training in Russia to fly the Su-57.

The Sukhoi Su-57 is Russia's fifth-generation jet and its most modern fighter in official operational service.

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Only the US, with the F-35 Lightning II and F-22 Raptor, and China, with the Chengdu J-20 and Shenyang J-35, are serially producing fighter aircraft in the same generation, which is typically marked by advanced stealth and digital capabilities.

Russia's export version of the fighter, the Su-57E, is widely believed to feature some modifications to avionics, electronics, and software compared to those used in its own fleet.

While the Su-57 is thought to be available in limited numbers, Russia's ability to export the fighter suggests that Moscow is still capable of reliably producing them, or that it can at least spare some from its existing inventory.

International observers have long tried to gain insight into the health of Russia's military manufacturing base, which has greatly expanded since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in 2022.

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Frontelligence Insight, an open-source research group, said in October 2024 that Su-57 production lines were under threat from Western sanctions because they included components such as a German-made radar.

The West has attempted to restrict Moscow's access to resources and components through sanctions on energy and technology trade, but Russia has largely found ways to keep its war industry humming. Ukraine, meanwhile, has tried to scupper Russian production by carrying out regular cross-border strikes against military factories.

The Su-57 is used sparingly against Ukraine, with the Kremlin relying heavily on fourth-generation aircraft such as the Su-27 and Su-35, which are more equivalent to fighters like the F-16 Fighting Falcon.

Russia is believed to have built two dozen or so Su-57s, with its then-defense minister, Sergei Shoigu, saying in 2020 that the country's military would receive 22 of the advanced fighters by 2024.

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Moscow said it aims to acquire a total of 76 Su-57s by 2028.

Kyiv said in the summer of 2024 that it had damaged at least one Su-57 in a strike on a Russian airfield.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Britain is prepared to take military action against future incursions by a Russian spy ship that attempted to blind RAF pilots with lasers.

John Healey, the Defence Secretary, said the Royal Navy would be changing its rules of engagement after the Yantar, a suspected spy ship, was detected off the coast of Scotland earlier this month.

Speaking at a press conference in Downing Street on Wednesday morning, Mr Healey revealed the ship had fired beams of light towards a RAF P-8 Poseidon submarine hunter jet that had been sent to monitor it.

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Mr Healey said this was deeply dangerous and warned Russia that Britain had military options ready should Yantar change course.

Ramping up Britains military stance, the Defence Secretary said British warships would now be able to shadow the Yantar more closely and aggressively, approaching to a distance understood to be about the length of a football pitch.

The Yantar is thought to be part of Russias shadow fleet - Ministry of Defence/PA Wire

Mr Healey said: We deployed a Royal Navy frigate and RAF P-8 planes to monitor and track this vessels every move, during which the Yantar directed lasers at our pilots.

That Russian action is deeply dangerous and this is the second time this year that this ship, the Yantar, has deployed to UK waters.

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My message to Russia and to [Vladimir] Putin is this: we see you, we know what youre doing and if the Yantar travels south this week we are ready.

A senior defence source said it would be inconceivable for British ships to be given permission to fire on the Yantar, however.

The intelligence ship would have to do something very, very aggressive for anything kinetic to happen, the source added.

Answering an urgent question in Parliament on Thursday, Al Carns, the armed forces minister, said the RAF crew hit by the laser had to be medically assessed and that no injuries were received.

This was a highly dangerous and reckless attempt to disrupt our monitoring, Mr Carns, a special forces veteran, said.

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He told MPs Russia did not want the world knowing what the Yantar was up to, adding: We will not let the Yantar go unchallenged as it attempts to survey our infrastructure and... any attempt to disrupt or damage underwater infrastructure will be met with the firmest of responses.

Matt Western MP, the chair of the joint committee on the National Security Strategy, said there is more we can do and warned: More assertive retaliation may be required.

Russia dismissed Mr Healeys provocative statements, with its embassy in London saying: The endless accusations and suspicions of the British leadership are simply laughable.

Our countrys actions do not affect the interests of the United Kingdom and are not aimed at undermining its security.

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However, London, with its Russophobic course and the escalation of militaristic hysteria, is contributing to the further degradation of European security, creating the preconditions for new dangerous situations.

John Healey has said Russian action in British waters is deeply dangerous - Stefan Rousseau/The Press Association

It insisted that Yantar was an oceanographic research vessel operating in international waters. Britain maintains the ship is being used to spy on vital underwater cables.

Downing Street did not reveal the statement the Government had put to Russia after the incident on Wednesday.

The Prime Ministers spokesman said that our position on Russian interference is clear but added: Im not going to get into conversations on the diplomatic level.

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The vessel was followed by HMS Somerset, a Royal Navy frigate, off the coast of Scotland, Mr Healey said. The Ministry of Defence said the ship was tracked between Nov 5 and Nov 11.

It is the second time the Yantar has visited British waters in a year. Defence chiefs believe the ship is attempting to use its suite of sensors to spy on Britain.

The Defence Secretary said that the Yantar was currently on the edge of British waters north of Scotland, having entered the UKs wider waters in the last few weeks.

Mr Healey said the Yantar was part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk.

The Yantar is designed for gathering intelligence and mapping our undersea cables, John Healey has said - Ministry of Defence/PA Wire

He added: It isnt just a naval operation. Its part of a Russian programme driven by what they call the Main Directorate of Deep-Sea Research, or GUGI, and this is designed to have capabilities which can undertake surveillance in peacetime and sabotage in conflict.

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That is why weve been determined, whenever the Yantar comes into British wider waters, we track it, we deter it and we say to Putin we are ready. And we do that alongside allies.

You saw this last year in the way that Britain led the response to attacks on critical infrastructure with other Baltic and Nordic nations, and then Nato stepped in as well with their operation.

So, its a demonstration, if you like, of a British readiness to act, a British capability to act, because, make no mistake, we will not tolerate a threat to the British peoples essential connections under water.

Shadow fleet

The Yantar is thought to be part of Russias shadow fleet, which is better known for funding Putins war machine by shipping oil, in breach of Western sanctions.

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Its vessels are often made up of unflagged civilian ships such as tankers. It is believed the fleet could consist of at least 600 vessels.

The spy ship was previously spotted entering UK waters in January, prompting a major intervention by the Royal Navy.

Yantar, which Mr Healey said was designed for gathering intelligence and mapping our undersea cables, was shadowed then by frigate HMS Somerset and patrol ship HMS Tyne.

HMS Somerset covertly launched its Merlin helicopter, which used its sensors to spot the Russian ship as it made its way north towards the English Channel.

The Type 23 frigate then closed in on Yantars location and intercepted it in the entrance to the Channel  south of the traffic separation scheme at Ushant, near France.

A Royal Navy frigate (bottom) was deployed to track the Yantar (top) in January this year - Royal Navy/Ministry of Defence

Cdr Matthew Teare, HMS Somersets captain, said at the time: The Royal Navy is always there when the nation needs, protecting our home, and the waters that surround it.

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This is routine business for HMS Somersets ships company and the Royal Navy, but it is nonetheless vital work for the UKs security and I am proud of the professionalism of my crew.

Britain has grown increasingly concerned about Russias naval presence in its waters.

Last month, the Defence Secretary claimed Russian submarine activity had increased by a third.

Meanwhile, warships from the Russian fleet have been increasingly shadowed by British ships as they pass through the Channel. Defence officials insist these operations are routine.

In November 2024, Mr Healey ordered a Royal Navy Astute-class nuclear submarine to surface just off Yantars bow amid fears it was trying to spy on undersea cables.

Munitions factories investment

On Wednesday, Mr Healey also announced that the Government was investing in 13 new munitions factories, as part of a 1.5bn deal.

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He said: Within this Parliament, I want Britain to become the best place to invest and grow a defence business.

I want Britains Armed Forces to be the fastest innovating military in Nato. I want the British Government investment matched by rising private investment.

Mr Healeys comments come hours after a critical review warned that Britain was not ready to defend itself from an attack.

Following a year-long inquiry, the Commons defence committee said Labour was moving at a glacial pace in the face of renewed threats from Russia and China.

It claimed Britain was failing to meet its Nato Article 3 defence obligations to maintain and develop individual and collective capacity to resist armed attack.

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It also warned that Britain had next to nothing when it came to integrated air and missile defences and lacked a plan for defending the homeland and overseas territories.

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By Patricia Zengerle and Simon Lewis

WASHINGTON -U.S. lawmakers are set to meet with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the U.S. Capitol on Wednesday on the second day of his visit to the United States, aimed at touting stronger-than-ever economic and security ties with Washington while brushing off scrutiny over his human rights record.

President Donald Trump lavishly greeted bin Salman at the White House on Tuesday and defended the crown prince over the 2018 killing of Washington Post journalist Jamal Khashoggi by Saudi agents, which U.S. intelligence agencies concluded he approved.

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Considered an outcast in the aftermath of the killing, bin Salman's rehabilitation was rubber stamped this week. One example showcasing that was Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who as a U.S. senator in 2019 denounced the crown prince as a "gangster", sitting a few steps away during the Oval Office meeting, where Trump repeatedly said it was "an honor" to be friends with the Saudi leader.

That marks a sharp contrast to Washington's view of the Saudi leader during Trump's first term, as members of Congress became angry with Riyadh's role in the devastating civil war in Yemen and human rights record, fueled by Khashoggi's murder at a Saudi consulate in Turkey.

"He is reckless, he's ruthless, he has a penchant for escalation, for taking high risks, confrontational in his foreign policy approach and I think increasingly willing to test the limits of what he can get away with the United States," Rubio at the time said. There were multiple and persistent calls from members of Congress for accountability.

In 2019, Congress passed a resolution demanding an end to military support for the Saudi-led coalition waging war in Yemen, although there were too few votes to overturn Trump's veto.

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Although memories of that time may have faded, bin Salman's reception on Capitol Hill on Wednesday was likely to be far more subdued than the welcomes given to other world leaders. Aides said he would meet with some members of Congress on Wednesday morning, but the meeting was not announced.

Neither Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson nor Republican Senate Leader John Thune planned the type of press opportunity, with photos and brief remarks, often held when world leaders visit the Capitol.

A handful of lawmakers have even criticized bin Salman this time around.

Senator Tim Kaine of Virginia, where Khashoggi lived, blasted Trump after the Oval Office meeting with bin Salman, known as MBS.

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"Instead of rolling out the red carpet for MBS and leveraging the presidency for private hotel deals, Trump should be demanding accountability on behalf of Khashoggis Virginia-based family and pressing Saudi Arabia to advance U.S. security interests. Unfortunately, this is just the most recent example of Trump placing his personal financial interests above the interest of the American people," he said in a statement.

Bin Salman, who agreed in the meeting to increase the kingdom's investments in the U.S. to $1 trillion from $600 billion, is also attending an investment conference in Washington on Wednesday that will include CEOs from major U.S. companies. The two sides also announced new agreements on arms sales, civil nuclear cooperation and artificial intelligence after the meeting.

(Reporting by Patricia Zengerle and Simon Lewis; Editing by Humeyra Pamuk and Lincoln Feast.)
The cannons are primed, the band rehearsed, the dinner jackets dusted off.

When Donald Trump welcomes Mohammed bin Salman, de facto ruler of Saudi Arabia, to the White House on Tuesday, every effort will be made to impress.

Despite making his first visit to Washington since he was implicated in the 2018 murder of the dissident journalist Jamal Khashoggi, the crown prince can rest assured he will not encounter the ambushes sprung on the Ukrainian and South African presidents.

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Instead, Mr Trump will try to repay the lavish hospitality he enjoyed in Saudi Arabia, where he was greeted with a fighter-jet escort, a golden sword-wielding guard of honour and a troop of richly caparisoned Arabian greys.

The United States struggles to pull off pageantry with panache, but Mr Trump will hope the spectacle is sufficiently striking to mask the lack of definitive substance.

Donald Trump greets Mohammed bin Salman at the White House on Tuesday - ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS

There is no question the two men share a deep affinity: I like you too much, Mr Trump told the prince in May. Their mutual affection extends beyond a shared enthusiasm for gaudy palaces.

Each wants to deliver the foreign policy breakthrough the other longs for: Saudi Arabia joining the Abraham Accords in Mr Trumps case; a full defence treaty with watertight US security guarantees in Prince Mohammeds.

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Yet neither is likely to get what he wants, despite Mr Trumps repeated suggestions to the contrary.

b'

Abraham Accords

'

The US president told reporters on Friday: I hope that Saudi Arabia will be going into the Abraham Accords very shortly.

There is no overstating the significance of such a step. For all the conflicts Mr Trump claims to have solved this year, none yet matches the accords in scale or ambition.

Signed in September 2020, they remain his principal foreign policy accomplishment, normalising relations between Israel and the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco and Sudan and paving the way for Israels integration into the region.

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Hundreds of thousands of Israelis have since flown to Dubai  once off limits  and a Jewish community has taken root there, complete with kosher restaurants and Hebrew schools.

Saudi Arabia, the regions most influential state, had appeared poised to follow, heralding a new dawn for Israels long-troubled relationship with its Muslim neighbours  one that might have been achieved without concessions to the Palestinians.

But Israels war in Gaza halted such hopes. Opinion polls show 96 per cent of Saudis oppose normalising ties. Even in an absolute monarchy, such overwhelming public sentiment cannot be ignored.

Late last year, Prince Mohammed dropped his ambiguity, declaring that without a credible pathway to Palestinian statehood, there could be no deal with Israel.

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Mr Trump appears to think the Saudis are persuadable  a misreading that has exasperated some in Riyadh.

A Palestinian state is a prerequisite for regional integration, Manal Radwan, the Saudi foreign ministrys lead negotiator, told the IISS Manama Dialogue, a regional security conference, this month.

We have said it many times  and I say it here one more time: the realisation of a Palestinian state is the prerequisite for regional integration.

Mr Trump is welcomed by the Crown Prince on his visit in May 2025 to Riyadh - Bandar Algaloud/Courtesy of Saudi Royal Court via Reuters

Yet while the Crown Prince cannot give Mr Trump what he wants, the reverse is also true. The US president cannot offer Saudi Arabia a Nato-style defence treaty. Congress would have to approve it, but bipartisan reservations about binding commitments to a country still tarnished by its record on human rights and regional destabilisation rule this out.

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On the charge of recklessness, at least, Saudi officials feel aggrieved. In Mr Trumps first term, Prince Mohammed was indeed seen as impetuous  prosecuting a bloody war in Yemen, leading a blockade of Qatar, detaining the Lebanese prime minister, imprisoning family members in a Riyadh hotel and allegedly approving the operation that saw Khashoggi dismembered in Istanbul.

But the prince is now viewed as a model of sobriety, eschewing foreign adventurism in favour of domestic economic transformation  while Mr Trump has arguably taken his mantle by bombing Yemen and Iran.

These differences, however, should not obscure the genuine closeness between the two leaders and Prince Mohammed is unlikely to leave Washington empty-handed.

Tuesday marked the crown princes first visit to Washington since he was implicated in the 2018 murder of a dissident journalist - SAUL LOEB

He may not get a formal treaty, but Mr Trump is likely to issue an executive order pledging to defend Saudi Arabia if attacked  similar to the commitment he made to Qatar after an Israeli air strike on a Hamas meeting in Doha in September.

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He may also secure access to advanced US computer chips, enabling Saudi Arabia to compete with the UAE, which signed a multibillion pound data centre deal with Washington in June. Likewise Mr Trump has signalled he may allow Saudi Arabia to purchase a large number of F-35 stealth fighter jets, despite Israeli misgivings, and could offer movement on Riyadhs long-standing ambition for assistance in developing a civilian nuclear programme.

All about show

Neil Quilliam, an associate fellow at the international-affairs think tank Chatham House, said: I dont think he is going to come away with anything very tangible or real. Its going to be all about the show and all about the optics.

That may not trouble the prince. For whatever is agreed, he will leave with something of immense symbolic value. Five years ago, Joe Biden came to office vowing to make Saudi Arabia a pariah. This week, its de facto ruler will depart Washington more secure in the US presidents affections than almost any other leader on earth.

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Tiffany Carroll, left, with her lawyer, Rep. Travis Moore, R-Roebuck, appear virtually before the South Carolina Parole Board Wednesday, Sept. 25, 2024. Pictured in the small screen, also participating remotely from a separate facility, is Carroll's second-grade teacher Mary Ann Wingard. (File photo by Jessica Holdman/SC Daily Gazette)

South Carolinas parole board on Wednesday approved releasing a Greenwood mother whos spent nearly six years in prison for killing her abuser.

The 4-2 vote to parole Tiffany Janae Carroll followed a years-long effort by her family, her second grade teacher, and two GOP legislators. Backing their request, again, were the law enforcement offices that put Carroll in prison, which Rep. John McCravy said illustrates the rarity of the situation.

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If anyone ever needed to get paroled, its her, said the Greenwood Republican, who noted Ive never advocated for anyone to get out on parole in my life except her.

For the 38-year-old mother, the fourth time was the charm. Last years hearing ended one vote shy of the supermajority needed.

Her release could be days away  potentially in time to spend Thanksgiving with her five children, who range in age from 6 to 18.

Thats the hope anyway, said her attorney, Rep. Travis Moore.

Shes looking forward to seeing her kids, said Moore, R-Roebuck, a former prosecutor who took on his first parole case for free.

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Carroll and Moore again appeared before the parole board virtually from the womens prison in Columbia.

For the fourth time, no one attended to oppose her release, McCravy told the SC Daily Gazette.

Technically, Carroll was granted conditional parole.

Before shes released, local parole officers must verify that she has a suitable home and employment lined up. Moore provided address options, including the homes of her sister, and an aunt and uncle. A catering business has offered her a job. If that falls through, McCravy told the board, hell hire her at his law office. He also offered the use of an old car.

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The parole board was left with no excuses, said Moore, who lives in Spartanburg County but has family in Greenwood.

Her sentence

Whether Carroll killed her then-partner, 27-year-old William Jamal Johnson, was never in question. She pleaded guilty but mentally ill to manslaughter in December 2019 for fatally stabbing him.

The 4-2 vote

SCs parole board is supposed to have seven members, but one seat is vacant. (Seats are appointed by the governor.):

Voting for parole: Dan Wideman, Vice-Chairman Henry Eldridge, Geraldine Miro, and Terrye Seckinger

Voting against parole: Reno Boyd, and Chairwoman Mollie DuPriest Taylor (The same two voted no in last years 3-2 vote.)

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But her supporters contend her 15-year sentence represented injustice, considering the abuse she endured.

Law enforcement officers responded to their home eight times between May 2016, a month before their son was born, and Johnsons death, court records show.

Accounts vary on exactly what happened that day in September 2017, after the couple started arguing. At her first parole hearing, she told the board she was trying to leave when he leaped out at me and hit me again. Shes said she doesnt remember what happened next.

Whats not disputed in the legal record is that Carroll at some point got a knife from the kitchen, cut him on the arm and ankle and stabbed him in the chest. After realizing what shed done, she tried to save his life, applying pressure to his wounds. He died at the local hospital.

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A month before Carrolls sentencing, a psychologist diagnosed her with post-traumatic stress disorder and major depressive disorder linked to severe domestic violence, also known as battered woman syndrome.

A manslaughter conviction usually requires inmates to serve at least a third of their sentence before coming up for parole. But at sentencing, then-Circuit Court Judge Letitia Verdin (now a state Supreme Court justice) permitted Carroll to be eligible after serving 25% of her 15-year sentence. Thats why she first came up for parole in 2022.

While in prison, Carroll has availed herself to every program and opportunity to better herself, Moore said.

That includes taking virtual classes through Claflin University, earning several work certificates, and working at the prison laundry. Her record shows no discipline problems.

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Still, South Carolinas parole board very rarely approves early release for any inmate.

Community support

People who sent letters of support again included the police chief of the department that charged her and the solicitor who prosecuted her case.

Mrs. Carrolls case exemplifies someone who deserves another chance, Greenwood Police Chief TJ Chaudoin wrote in a Sept. 9 letter to the parole board, echoing what he wrote last year.

Solicitor David Stumbo, whos running for attorney general in 2026, maintains his office made the right decisions: Johnsons death did not legally support a self-defense argument, despite the couples history and Carroll being a victim in the past. And the guilty-but-mentally-ill plea to manslaughter, down from the original murder charge, was proper under the facts of the case, he wrote in a separate letter to the board dated Sept. 9.

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However, we are confident that this incident of violence was isolated to Ms. Carrolls particular situation at the time as a battered woman, and she is not the type of offender that would pose a danger to our community at large, wrote the chief prosecutor for Abbeville, Greenwood, Newberry and Laurens counties.

Based on the outpouring of community support and the unique circumstances that her case presents  I strongly support her application for parole, he concluded in a repeat of what he wrote last year.

Asked what made the difference, McCravy gave credit to God.

I think the Lord did. I think prayer did, he said. Our whole community was praying.

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Scientists have discovered a surprising connection between the rise in civilizations and a subsequent increase in bedbug populations. Though they're not known to transmit diseases, the pests can contribute to sleep and mental health issues.

What's happening?

As the Guardian reported, a study by an international team of researchers found that bedbugs could likely be "the first urban pest insect," as their numbers exploded when humans began expanding across the globe and building cities.

Dr. Warren Booth, an urban entomologist at Virginia Tech and a co-author of the research, said that when human settlements first emerged around 10,000 years ago, it created the ideal conditions for the blood-sucking parasites to thrive.

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"When we started to live in cities, we brought all these people together, and they all had their own bedbugs with them," Booth said. "And then, as civilisation spread across the world, the bugs spread with them to the point where they're now ubiquitous in human society."

For the study, which was published in Biology Letters, the team compared the genetic material of 19 bedbugs from the Czech Republic and discovered that populations associated with both bats and humans  two common hosts for bedbugs  started declining in the midst of the last ice age, about 45,000 years ago. However, their populations experienced a "dramatic" rise around 8,000 years ago, shortly after humans migrated into big cities.

Why is the rise in bedbugs concerning?

While bedbugs are not generally considered to be harmful, they can cause discomfort and annoyance, especially if you're dealing with an infestation. Plus, some people experience minor symptoms, including itching and irritation, red, swollen bumps, and even allergic reactions that require treatment.

Not to mention, knowing you have bedbugs crawling around your sheets can lead to insomnia and poor well-being. Having to replace bedding and potentially seek professional help to eradicate them is also a major hassle.

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However, the elephant in the room is that soaring bedbug numbers and the shifting climate have more to do with each other than you'd think. Warmer temperatures and higher humidity levels can accelerate bedbug life cycles and lead to more frequent reproduction. Additionally, a hotter climate provides the ideal conditions for pests to expand their ranges and colonize areas they previously could not survive in.

Changes in the climate can also disrupt natural predators or competitors of bedbugs, further contributing to their successful reproduction. While bedbugs don't directly harm the planet, the need to control or eliminate them often involves the use of pesticides, which can damage ecosystems and hurt wildlife.

In the grand scheme of things, bedbugs may be relatively harmless compared to other pests, but bugs such as mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas are contributing to an alarming rise in vector-borne illnesses  including malaria, Lyme disease, and typhus  around the globe.

What can be done to control bedbug numbers?

Prevention is the best cure, as they say, so regular cleaning and decluttering around your home will help keep the bedbugs at bay. If you have an infestation, make sure to thoroughly wash and dry bedding on high heat, use steam or heat treatments, or call for professional help if necessary.

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Keeping your home clean with natural cleaning products such as baking soda and vinegar is also a simple, affordable solution to prevent (or at least lessen) the likelihood of attracting bedbugs.



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Health officials in California are warning residents to take precautions after a case of a notorious disease was confirmed.

What's happening?

Earth.com reported that a resident in South Lake Tahoe suffered an infection of the plague caused by a suspected flea bite.

Yes, that plague. The same disease that wiped out half of Europe in the 14th century has never been eradicated. It's caused by the bacterium Yersinia pestis, which is spread to animals by fleas. A handful of cases are reported in the United States each year.

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the disease spread to the U.S. in the early 1900s likely via an infected rodent on a steamship. There hasn't been an urban case reported in over a century, though San Diego had a lucky escape in 1945 when World War II ended before a planned biological attack by the Japanese could be carried out.

The most common variant is the bubonic plague, characterized by fever, cramps, and painful swelling of the lymph nodes. If untreated, the infection can spread to the lungs (pneumonic) or the whole body (septicemic), which is almost always fatal.

"It's important that individuals take precautions for themselves and their pets when outdoors, especially while walking, hiking, and/or camping in areas where wild rodents are present," warned Kyle Fliflet, El Dorado County acting director of public health.

Why is a plague case concerning?

The plague is a vector-borne disease, meaning that it is transmitted to humans via the bites of infected vectors such as fleas, ticks, and mosquitoes. As the heat-trapping pollution produced by human activity causes global temperatures to rise, it creates the ideal conditions for diseases to spread.

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A warmer planet means longer breeding seasons for vectors and extends their ranges. For example, infections of dengue fever, spread by mosquitoes, are skyrocketing across Europe and North America.

What's being done about the plague?

Fortunately, doctors are adept at treating the plague, provided it is caught quickly enough. A round of antibiotics administered early on will cure the infection, so it's important to help spread awareness of the warning signs. If, after a hike or camping trip in an at-risk area such as the Sierra Nevadas, you experience fever and tender lymph nodes, get medical attention immediately.

The California Department of Public Health also recommends sensible precautions, such as being mindful of warnings, keeping food secure, staying away from burrows, and treating pets with flea control products.

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Heres what youll learn when you read this story:

For more than seven years, scientists at the University of Michigan have explored the strange quantum oscillations of the Kondo insulator ytterbium boride (YbB 12 ).

In 2018, the team discovered that quantum oscillations arose from the bulk of the insulator under intense magnetic fields, which is counter to the behavior of a type of well-known material known as a topological insulator.

A new studyleveraging powerful magnets at the National Magnetic Field Laboratoryconfirms that these oscillations are intrinsic and occur in the insulating bulk of the material, leading to questions about what practical purpose this bizarre quantum behavior could serve.

Some of historys biggest discoveries initially appear to serve no practical purpose. When scientists devised the first working lasers a few decades after Albert Einsteins theory of stimulated emission in 1917, few understood what practical applications they might have. Now, of course, most of the technological world relies on them.

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And it doesnt stop at lasers. Lu Li from the University of Michigan has spent years exploring a strange quantum behavior in the insulator known as ytterbium boride (YbB 12 ), which is also known as a Kondo insulator. In 2018, Li and his team published a paper in Science detailing a strange phenomenon regarding YbB 12 . While its surface acts as a conductor, its bulk (or interior) acts as an insulatorbut the team found evidence of quantum oscillations in the materials bulk, aligning with previous research conducted by scientists at the University of Cambridge years earlier.

This result confirms that Kondo insulators have a dual naturethey are both electrical insulators and itinerant metals, Li told Physics World at the time. This duality is a surprising consequence of the strong correlations between the electrons in the material.

Fast forward seven years later, and Li and his team have gathered even more evidence of this striking quantum behavior in a study published in the journal Physical Review Letters. Working at the most powerful magnet lab in the worldthe National Magnetic Field Laboratory in Tallahassee, FloridaLi aimed to confirm that these oscillations did indeed form within the bulk of the insulator and that they were intrinsic to the material.

The community has not yet reached a consensus on fundamental questionsabout the quantum oscillations; debates persist about whether the oscillations originate from the surface or the bulk and whether they are intrinsic or extrinsic, the authors wrote. It is essential to obtain direct thermodynamic evidence to determine whether the [] thermal properties originate from the same quasiparticle band as the quantum oscillations.

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While this study confirms the intrinsic bulk origins of these quantum oscillations, the authors note that this behavior only arises in magnetic fields at the threshold of 35 Tesla. For comparison, an MRI machine only leverages a magnetic field of one Tesla. Admittedly, Li said he isnt quite sure where this new discovery leads the field. Topological insulatorsmaterials that are conductive on their surface, but insulators in their bulkhave enabled new quantum technologies , but a material where quantum oscillations occur in the bulk is a still a bit of a question mark.

I wish I knew what to do with that, but at this stage we have no idea, Li said in a press statement. What we have right now is experimental evidence of a remarkable phenomenon, weve recorded it and, hopefully, at some point, well realize how to use it.

If the discovery and creation of the laser provides any historical context, that realization could have profound consequences for future technology.

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FIRST ON FOX: The top outside political group that supported President Donald Trump's 2024 campaign is jumping into a hotly contested special election for a Republican-controlled vacant House seat in a solidly red congressional district in Tennessee.

MAGA Inc. is launching ads to support Trump-endorsed Republican nominee Matt Van Epps in his showdown against Democratic nominee Aftyn Behn in the race to succeed former GOP Rep. Mark Green, who resigned from office in June to take a private sector job. The spots were shared first with Fox News Digital on Wednesday.

The ads, which MAGA Inc. says will run on broadcast TV and digital and are backed by a seven-figure buy that also includes investments in get-out-the-vote efforts, are the first by the group since last year's presidential election.

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Republican groups are pouring plenty of resources into the special election to avoid the possibility of a major upset and protect the GOP's current razor-thin 219-214 majority in the House.

Trump-backed Candidate Wins Crowded Gop Primary In Battle For Vacant House Seat

Trump carried the district  which is located in central and western Tennessee, stretches from Kentucky to Alabama, and includes parts of Nashville  by 22 points in last year's presidential election.

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But Democrats, energized after their sweeping victories earlier this month in the 2025 elections, are optimistic about their chances in the Dec. 2 special election. Democratic National Committee (DNC) Chair Ken Martin, who campaigned with Behn last weekend, argued that she has "an excellent shot to win."

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Democrat Aftyn Behn Advances To Special Election In Battle For Vacant Congressional Seat In Deep-red District

The spots by MAGA Inc. target Behn, a state representative, former healthcare community organizer, and rising progressive star who some have dubbed the "AOC of Tennessee," over her vote last year in the legislature against what Republicans tout as the state's largest tax cut ever.

"Politician Aftyn Behn voted against the largest tax cut in state history," the narrator in the spot said.

And the narrator claimed that "this year, Aftyn Behn backed more tax hikes that would cost Tennessee families thousands more," which points to Behn's opposition to the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which passed the Republican-controlled Congress along partisan lines and extended the Trump tax cuts from the president's first term.

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"We can't afford radical liberal Aftyn Behn," the narrator argued.

The ad also includes a clip, used twice, of Behn saying, "I'm a very radical person."

Trump Looms Large Over Special Election Primary In Deep-red Congressional District

Trump's endorsement of Van Epps helped boost the former commissioner of the Tennessee Department of General Services to primary victory last month in an 11-candidate race for the Republican congressional nomination.

Last week, Trump hosted a tele-rally for Van Epps in which he claimed Behn was a "Marxist" and linked her to Zohran Mamdani, the socialist mayor-elect of New York City, whom Republicans are aiming to make the new face of the Democratic Party.

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The Van Epps campaign is asking the president to campaign in person in the district ahead of the special election.

On Tuesday, former Vice President Kamala Harris, whom Trump defeated in last year's presidential election, campaigned with Behn.

"Kamala Harris visit to Tennessee says it all  Aftyn Behn is a typical radical liberal. Behn supports higher taxes and open borders. Tennessee is going to reject her agenda and elect Matt Van Epps to Congress," MAGA Inc. spokesman Alex Pfeiffer told Fox News Digital.

MAGA Inc. was not a major player in the 2022 midterms, as the group saved much of its resources for Trump's 2024 campaign to win back the White House. MAGA Inc. ended up spending $456-million to support Trump's campaign, according to Open Secrets, a nonprofit organization that tracks campaign finance data.

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But with Trump aiming to help Republicans protect their House and Senate majorities in next year's midterm elections  "We must keep the Majority at all costs," Trump wrote in a social media post on Monday  MAGA Inc. is expected to play a much larger role than they did during the 2022 cycle.

"This spend in an off-year special election shows how committed MAGA Inc will be to ensuring the House and Senate remain in Republican control," a source familiar told Fox News Digital.

And MAGA Inc. has the war chest to deliver on that commitment. The group raised nearly $177 million through June, according to the most recent fundraising reports filed with the Federal Election Commission.

Other conservative groups that are pouring big bucks into the special election in Tennessee include the Club for Growth Action and Conservatives for American Excellence PAC, which have both launched six-figure ad buys.

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The DNC charged that "Republicans are panicking  and they should be."

And DNC Deputy Communications Director Abhi Rahman argued that "Van Epps is Trumps hand-picked candidate in an overwhelmingly Republican district, and hes still in the fight of his life."





Original article source: Scoop: Trump-aligned MAGA Inc. jumps into high stakes ballot box congressional showdown
WASHINGTON  Social media companies could be held liable for promoting content that is responsible for radicalizing users and prompting them to cause harm, according to a new bill introduced by Sen. John Curtis, R-Utah, on Wednesday.

The Algorithm Accountability Act would reform Section 230 to no longer offer protections from tech companies if it can be proven that the platforms knowingly used an algorithm to amplify content responsible for causing harm. The change would instead mandate that companies own the content, which would allow individuals to sue them directly.

Section 230 was written nearly 30 years ago for a very different internet, Curtis said in a statement. What began as a commonsense protection for a fledgling industry has grown into a blanket immunity shield for some of the most powerful companies on the planet  companies that intentionally design algorithms that exploit user behavior, amplify dangerous content, and keep people online at any cost. Our bill will hold them accountable.

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In practice, the bill would establish requirements for social media platforms to design, train, test, deploy, operate, and maintain their recommendation-based algorithm to prevent foreseeable bodily injury or death. It would also provide a clear civil right of action to take legal action.

The legislation would still carve out protections for free speech by barring enforcement based on viewpoint or expression. It would also allow states to implement similar laws so long as they provide equal or stronger user protections.

Curtis introduced the bill alongside Sen. Mark Kelly, D-Ariz., after the pair first announced the legislation at an event last week confronting the nations epidemic of political violence.

Too many families have been hurt by social media algorithms designed with one goal: make money by getting people hooked, Kelly said in a statement. Over and over again, these companies refuse to take responsibility when their platforms contribute to violence, crime, or self-harm. Were going to change that and finally allow Americans to hold companies accountable.

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The bill would alter Section 230 of the Communications Decency Act, a 30-year-old bill that offers certain protections to online platforms so they are not liable for certain content posted by users. That curtain of protection is outdated in the current social media landscape, Curtis argued, as it was passed in 1996 before these social media companies and AI algorithms existed.

If theyre responsible for something going out that caused harm, they are responsible. So think twice before you magnify. Why do these things need to be magnified at all? Curtis told the Deseret News last week.

The bill comes after the assassination of Charlie Kirk, who was shot and killed during a September event at Utah Valley University by a gunman the FBI suggested was radicalized by time spent online in obscure social media forums. Early details from the investigation had also revealed the alleged killer had been engulfed by a radical left ideology, Utah Gov. Spencer Cox previously told the Deseret News.

Utah has led the nation in passing laws to protect children from the harms of social media, but these challenges dont stop at state lines. We need a national standard for accountability, Cox said in a statement on Wednesday. By establishing a duty of care for social media platforms, this bill will help protect families across the country from the deceptive and addictive algorithmic designs that put profit above people. Its time for Congress to act.

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Curtis has long pushed for increased regulation of social media platforms, rejecting arguments from some advocates that the tech companies are protected by the First Amendment. In a hearing with top tech executives last month, Curtis asserted that company executives must own their decisions on what content to amplify on their sites.

Curtis has compared the current online landscape to Senate hearings in the 1990s during which tobacco companies testified that nicotine was not an addictive substance and that there were no harmful effects of tobacco  which later proved to be false.

Its not yet clear if or when the bill will get a vote in the Senate.
Western powers have increased their attention, especially after Asian interest has been materializing. New exploration licenses were awarded to Ajlan & Bros with Chinas Zijin Mining and to Indias Vedanta. These licenses cover nearly 4,800 square kilometers of copper, zinc, gold, and silver prospects. At the International Mining Forum 2024 in Riyadh, nine metals and mining deals worth more than $9bn were signed, such as a copper project by Vedanta at Ras al-Khair and a phased zinclithiumcopper complex by Zijin. Chinese involvement and possible high interest in other projects are worrying the USA and Europe, as they could mean another power play within the Kingdom. Metals and minerals are geopolitical-geo-economic power-play instruments, in which Washington and Beijing are on a collision course.

The message from Saudi Arabia has fallen on fertile ground; international companies have heard it and are acting. Alcoa has long been embedded in the Maaden aluminum complex at Ras al-Khair, holding 25.1% stakes in the bauxite, alumina, and smelter JVs. Mosaic partnered with Maaden in phosphate, while the international mining giant Barrick set up a 50-50 JV to operate the Jabal Sayid underground copper mine.

The domestic changes have been remarkable, as the Saudi state has done something rare in the mining industry. Riyadh has built a regulatory regime from scratch with capital already lined up. A new mining law, streamlined licensing, and state-funded geoscience have been packaged with generous fiscal terms and a signal that PIF will co-invest where needed. Based on Riyadh's upgraded estimate of mineral resources at $2.5 trillion, talks are ongoing to unlock at least $75 billion in new mining investments over the coming decade.

In the coming days, the media will push themes related to the upcoming meeting between Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman (MBS) and US President Trump in Washington. While most will be looking at the possibilities of Saudi investments in US LNG via Aramco or defense deals, Saudi Arabias mineral strategy and opportunities will also be on the table. Geopolitically, Washington will also be interested in Saudi Arabias international mining investment strategy, through its national champion, Maaden, or its sovereign wealth fund, PIF. In the last few years, under Vision 2030, mining has changed from being the poor cousin of hydrocarbons to the third pillar of the economy. Results are impressive, especially given that Riyadh now claims $2.5 trillion in untapped mineral wealth beneath its soil, up from an earlier estimate of $1.3 trillion. MBS wants mining to become a serious contributor to non-oil GDP. Reality at present shows that this means two parallel projects: turning the kingdom itself into a mining province and turning the Public Investment Fund (PIF) and Maaden into global players in critical minerals supply chains. Both of interest not only to Washington, but also to China, India, and maybe Europe.

Story Continues

Saudi mining giant Maaden holds the pivotal position in this domestic build-out. While it is majority-owned by PIF (around 65%), the company has behaved like both a national champion and a private company. In recent years, it has ramped up production in gold, phosphates, and aluminum, while now targeting copper and, increasingly, lithium. Signs are clear: based on a non-binding term sheet with Aramco and KAUST to explore a minerals venture focused on energy-transition metals, including lithium extraction from unconventional sources, Saudi Arabia wants to produce, not just import, battery metals by the late 2020s.

The most interesting part of the ongoing strategy is outside of the Kingdom. Since 2023, when Manara Minerals, a JV between PIF and Maaden, was established as its dedicated outbound mining arm, significant investments have been made. Manaras mandate is unequivocal; the company will need to buy into copper, nickel, lithium, and rare-earth assets abroad and use those stakes to secure long-term offtake for the kingdoms future industries. Main clients inside the Kingdom will be electric vehicles, batteries, data centers, and defence.

The results are impressive, as shown by Manara's $2.5 billion acquisition of a 10% stake in Vale Base Metals, the energy transition division of Brazilian giant Vale. In the next 10 years, Brazils Vale expects to spend $2530bn in copper and nickel projects in Brazil, Canada, and Indonesia. Ambitions are very high; Vale wants to triple copper output and almost double nickel production. By investing in Vale via Manara, the Kingdom is now plugged into the growth. Not only will Riyadh have financial exposure, but it can also negotiate leverage in future supply contracts.

At the same time, Manaras portfolio is expanding and will continue to grow. At present, the company is in advanced talks to acquire a minority stake in First Quantums Zambian copper and nickel assets. At the same time, it is expected to buy 1020% of Pakistans $9bn Reko Diq coppergold project, which is already seen as a future giant in the global copper industry. The deal, slated to be between $500 million and $1bn, will be done via an equity stake purchased from the Pakistani state. In Africas mining hotspot, the Democratic Republic of Congo, PIF and Maaden are exploring a $3bn joint venture, combined with other African jurisdictions. Riyadh seems not to be buying control, but adjacency. The strategy is to have enough equity to negotiate supply, technology transfer, and political goodwill, without taking on full operator risk.

In January 2026, the Future Minerals Forum (FMF) 2026 will be held again, the diplomatic theatre for Riyadhs strategy. Already termed as the UN of Minerals, almost like Saudi Arabias Future Investment Initiative (Davos in the Desert), the forum will be drawing more than 18,000 attendees, 70 ministers, and hundreds of CEOs to discuss mineral security, critical supply chains, and the energy transition. During FMF 2025, 126 agreements and MoUs worth roughly SAR107bn ($28.5bn) were signed across exploration, financing, R&D, and processing. The 2026 version is expected to be even harder hitting, as it is labeled the Dawn of a Global Cause in mineral supply chains. In another move, Riyadh has signed or is negotiating mining and critical minerals partnerships with the UK and the United States, explicitly framed around copper, lithium, and nickel for EVs and AI-hungry data centers. MBSs Washington visit could also address these deals. While the world is talking to Riyadh, it still feels strange to see the lack of movement from Brussels and from companies in its member countries.

Saudis approach is not charity, but precise hedging. Europes dependence on Russian gas and the US's dependence on Chinese processing have shown Riyadh to act. Saudi experts and officials have concluded that minerals will be the next arena where reliability is priced at a premium. The hedging position is powerful, as for Washington, a Saudi partner in copper, nickel, and rare earths is preferable to a Chinese one. For the UK, especially London, a Gulf hub for critical minerals trade (Riyadh) looks like a hedge against insecure supply from Congo or Indonesia. When looking at the reasons for Saudi Arabia, it is clear that these partnerships convert its cash and its geography into political leverage in capitals that still shape security guarantees and technology flows.

Geo-economics is also clearly at play. Saudi PIFs own strategy calls for at least $40bn a year in domestic investment and for international assets to make up roughly a quarter of its $1.07trn target balance sheet by 2025. For the Kingdom, mining is the bridge between both, as it is an option to diversify away from oil and to build downstream manufacturing in EVs and defence, while it also inserts itself into value chains that will outlive the Internal Combustion Engine.

The road is clear, successes are there, but it is also full of tensions and constraints. PIFs governor has said the fund plans to reduce the share of foreign investment by at least 20% to focus more on domestic ventures, even as Manara is told to scale up overseas mining bets. Some analysts are warning that the more capital the kingdom ties up in copper pits in Pakistan and Zambia, the less it has for Vision 2030 white elephants at home. Saudi reality shows that mining is capital-intensive and slow, taking almost a decade from a MoU signed in a Riyadh conference hall to the first ton of copper cathode. MBS and its proponents now need to adjust to a new reality. The MBS political system, which has grown accustomed to immediate, visible mega-projects, now needs to get used to the grind of permitting, community relations, and ESG scrutiny in Congo or Pakistan, which may prove frustrating. Speeding up the process may require the involvement of others, maybe Washington-based players?

At the same time, Riyadh is slowly understanding that its game is not one-sided; there are more players in it. Already inside the Gulf, Saudi Arabia is not the only player, as shown by Abu Dhabis ADQ and Mubadala, both exploring critical minerals. Abu Dhabis new giant IHC is also targeting mining. At the same time, the Kingdom will need to deal with Qatars sovereign vehicles, as they are slowly probing metals supply chains. Within Africa, Saudis will need to confront Chinas Zijin, a formidable competitor across Africa and Latin America. At the same time, Saudi Arabia is finding that its pivot to the East (Asia) and its cooperation with China dont remove the primary market constraint: Chinas processing dominance and its grip on many upstream projects.

Mining has also become a primary political tool for Riyadh. Manaras planned entry into Reko Diq is not just a copper investment, but also a reinforcement of the growing geopolitical and military link with Pakistan. Riyadh is no longer only a critical creditor but also a partner in Islamabads foreign-policy balancing. Inside Africa, the situation is very tricky. A serious investment move into Congo will thrust Saudi Arabia into the messy politics of resource nationalism, artisanal mining, and human rights scrutiny that it has so far watched mainly from afar. The capabilities of Saudi officials and diplomats will be challenged.

Still, mining will be on the table in Washington, as a tool for MBS to recalibrate his relations with the Trump Administration and the financial and mining backers available. At present, a US-Saudi mining cooperation agreement is being prepared, with critical minerals explicitly on the agenda alongside more traditional energy and defence issues. MBSs message will be challenging but also attractive to some. The Crown Prince will tell the White House that the Kingdom is no longer just a swing producer of oil; it wants recognition as a future swing investor in the metals that underpin clean energy, AI, and defence industrial bases. For Washington, the latter is of immense interest, as access to Saudi capital and Saudi-backed offtake will support American and allied mining projects to clear financing hurdles. MBS will want, in return, that Washington shows political recognition of its new role.

The MBS bet is challenging for all sides. It will only be positive if Saudi Arabia can show it can take minority stakes in complex jurisdictions and still secure reliable, ESG-compliant supply without getting sucked into local governance crises. At the same time, the rush for critical assets has already driven up project valuations; the Kingdom could risk overpaying for middling assets. Western countries will need to decide whether they are comfortable swapping some dependence on Chinese processing for a new degree of reliance on a highly centralized Gulf monarchy.

MBSs theory at present is based on the assessment that in a world where everyone is anxious about securing copper, nickel, and lithium, partners will forgive a lot. Even though MBSs Vision 2030 started as a blueprint to diversify away from oil, the Kingdoms mining strategy is its most explicit acknowledgement that Riyadhs influence in a post-oil world will still be built on the ground beneath other peoples feet.

By Cyril Widdershoven for Oilprice.com

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(This story may update.)

Though the fatal shooting of a woman who arrived at the wrong Whitestown address for a cleaning job drew international media attention within days, authorities remained remarkably tight-lipped about their investigation until nearly two weeks after the death of Maria Florinda Rios Perez de Velazquez.

In the absence of verifiable facts, misinformation about Rios Perez's death and the shooter's identity flooded social media. Even after the Boone County Prosecutor's Office announced a voluntary manslaughter charge against the alleged shooter, 62-year-old Curt Andersen, on Nov. 17, misinformation about the shooting continues to proliferate online  a fact that Prosecutor Kent Eastwood acknowledged alongside the case's filing.

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"During the pendency of this investigation, social media has circulated false and misleading information," Eastwood said. "This must stop immediately. It does not help the process, and it does not help this case. It undermines the integrity of the judicial system, spreads confusion, and harms both the victim's family and the accused's right to a fair trial."

We've gathered some of the most commonly spread details about the Whitestown shooting and looked into their accuracy. Here's what we found.

The facts: What happened in the shooting of Maria Florinda Rios Perez de Velazquez

Before dawn on Nov. 5, Rios Perez, 32, and her husband, Mauricio Velazquez, drove to a cleaning job assigned by their employer.

The couple, who believed that they were at the correct location, were trying to unlock the house's front door with a set of keys when a shot was fired through the door, fatally striking Rios Perez in the head.

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At 6:49 a.m., the Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department received a 911 call about a possible "home invasion" on Maize Lane. Curt Andersen told his wife to make the call after he fired a shot through the front door, according to court documents.

The phone was then handed to Andersen, who told dispatchers that he believed two Hispanic males were breaking into the home, but he was unsure if they had a weapon, according to a two-and-a-half-minute recording of police scanner traffic that was posted on social media by Fox59's Max Lewis on Nov. 13.

When officers arrived at the scene, they found Rios Perez bleeding from a gunshot wound on the front porch. Her husband held her, sobbing. According to police radio communications, officers requested paramedics shortly after arriving on scene.

Police moved the couple away from the porch before medics pronounced Rios Perez dead at the scene.

Officers, meanwhile, tried to get Andersen to step outside, but he said that he was afraid and requested to be taken into custody behind the property.

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The caller and his wife eventually exited through the back door and were both detained by police, according to a court documents and dispatch audio from that day. Police then secured the property and collected the Glock 48 semi-automatic pistol used to shoot Rios Perez. At 7:12 a.m., the Boone County Coroners Office was called to the home.

Velazquez told police the couple had arrived at the home for a cleaning job, which police quickly verified.

"The facts gathered do not support that a residential entry occurred," Scott Rolston, the Chief of Police for the Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department, said in a statement hours after the shooting.

When asked if the department had any suspects in custody on Nov. 5, Whitestown police declined to comment, citing the ongoing investigation.

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Police and prosecutors refused to release the name of the homeowner or other parties involved before charges were filed, citing that "this is a complex, delicate, and evolving case, and it would be both inappropriate and potentially dangerous to disclose that information."

Eastwood, the Boone County Prosecutor, noted on Nov. 7 that this case was complex due to the language of the state's stand your ground law.

After a days-long review by Eastwood's office, Curt Andersen was charged with voluntary manslaughter, a level 2 felony.

The claim: The shooter was a police officer

The fact that the shooter wasn't immediately identified led some to believe that he was tied to law enforcement.

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Public records identified the homeowner as Curt Douglas Andersen, but authorities would not confirm whether the homeowner and the shooter were the same person. The homeowner's last name raised online sleuths' hackles, possibly because it is similar to  but spelled differently from  the former Whitestown police chief's last name.

Our rating: False, Whitestown police debunk rumor

Rolston, Whitestown police chief, debunked these claims in a statement released on Nov. 6.

"No officer  whether currently serving, retired, resigned, terminated, or otherwise affiliated with the Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department or any other police department  resides at or has any personal connection to the location of the incident," Rolston said in a news release.

Chief Dennis Anderson served as the head of the Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department for 12 years before his 2020 retirement. There is no indication that Curt Andersen and Dennis Anderson are related nor that they know one another.

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Curt Andersen worked as a psychiatric nurse for the U.S. Navy for more than 20 years, according to court documents.

The claim: Indiana cleaning woman was at the wrong address

Velazquez and Rios Perez were dispatched to a job in Whitestown's Heritage neighborhood by A&A Quality Cleaning. They were supposed to go to an unoccupied model home recently built behind Andersen's residence, but Velazquez said a Google Maps link sent by their boss sent them instead to Andersen's front door.

Early in the investigation, the Whitestown Metropolitan Police Department noted that Rios Perez and her husband had mistakenly tried to enter the wrong house.

In an interview with reporters late Nov. 5, Velazquez said he had double-checked the address given to them before the couple exited their vehicle and approached the house.

A peaceful gathering happened on the steps of the Boone County Prosecutor's Office to demand justice for the shooting death in Whitestown, Indiana of 32-year-old Maria Florinda Rios Perez de Velazquez on Nov. 10, 2025.

Our rating: True, mapping error may have contributed to confusion

According to court documents filed on Nov. 17, Velazquez and Rios Perez were dispatched to a newly-built model home east of Andersen's property. The new home is part of Windswept Farms, a Ryan Homes development behind the Heritage subdivision.

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A Google Maps link sent by the couple's boss took them instead to Andersen's home, the last home in the Heritage subdivision, he said. He told police that they drove in circles a few times, but GPS kept taking them back to Andersen's house.

Google Maps does not register that a new home has been built behind Andersen's, showing an open field instead. Satellite images from the Boone County Assessor's office captured in March 2025 show active construction behind the Andersens' home, where Windswept Farms' developers have previously filed plans to build a new road.

Construction on the model home had finished less than a week before the shooting, on Oct. 30, 2025, according to a representative from Ryan Homes who spoke with police.

The claim: Rios Perez's key was in the door when she was shot

Velazquez told police that his wife was shot when they were trying to unlock the door with keys provided by their boss.

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Rios Perez cycled through different keys for about 30 seconds to one minute before the fatal shot was fired, he said.

Court documents do not state whether a key was physically entered into the door at the moment of the shooting.

Our rating: Maybe, but all parties agree keys were tried

Velazquez, Andersen and Andersen's wife all told police that keys were being placed in the lock or it sounded like keys were being used in the lock.

Velazquez told police that he and his wife didn't try to forcefully enter the residence or even knock on the door, as they thought it was a model home with no residents. Andersen, meanwhile, told police the couple was "'thrusting' at the front door to get in with what he described as getting more and more aggressive," according to court documents.

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Crime scene investigators collected a set of keys from the porch, but court documents do not specify whether they were recovered from within the door's lock. There was no sign of forced entry, they wrote, and a layer of dust on the front door was visibly undisturbed.

Velazquez told police that in the past, when house keys didn't work, he and Rios Perez would just call their boss and let him know.

"He didn't have the opportunity to do so today," police wrote.

The claim: Rios Perez was shot through the front door

In an interview with police, Andersen said he fell asleep upstairs between 2-3 a.m. and several hours later awoke to the sound of "keys, tools, or instrument(s) being used on the front door of the residence."

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Through the windows, he saw two people standing in front of his door and retrieved his gun from a case. He fired a shot from the top of the stairs without announcing himself or giving a warning, he said.

He said he never went downstairs. He "heard a man crying out and weeping" after firing his gun, but didn't know why, thinking he may have "just scared them or something."

Our rating: True

Andersen and Andersen's wife both said the shot was fired from upstairs into the front door.

Crime scene investigators who responded to the scene found a bullet hole in the front door, about 59.5 inches above the doormat. Rios Perez was 4'9", or about 59 inches tall.

The claim: Shooter called 911 after firing gun

Whitestown police were called to the scene of a home invasion, not a shooting, and it was initially unclear if the shooting took place while they were en route.

Our rating: True

Andersen told police that he had his wife call 911 after the shot was fired, according to court documents. While speaking with a dispatcher, he held a phone in his left hand and the gun in his right.

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Court documents do not clarify whether Andersen told 911 he had fired a gun prior to officers' arrival.

The claim: Indiana's self-defense law will protect the shooter

Under Indiana law, a person is justified in using force  including deadly force  to prevent an unlawful entry into their home. The language of the statute is broad, however, and Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood said its phrasing may need to be reconsidered by lawmakers in the future.

In Indiana, in order to use self-defense, including stand your ground, there are two components that are considered. Theres subjective reasonableness and theres objective reasonableness, defense attorney Marc Lopez said.

Subjective reasonableness refers to an individual's perception at the time of the action  it asks whether the person believed their life was in danger, they'd be harmed or their home would be unlawfully entered unless they defended themselves. Objective reasonableness, meanwhile, asks whether a hypothetical reasonable person would have also used force given the same circumstances.

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Stand your ground: Can I shoot someone on my Indiana property? A lawyer explains Indiana Castle Doctrine

Our rating: Remains to be seen. The shooter has been charged but can raise an affirmative defense in court

Indiana law doesn't stop a prosecutor from filing charges against someone claiming self defense, but it does allow someone to raise an "affirmative defense" in court. That means the defendant admits to doing what they're accused of, but argues they were justified under the law.

The defendant is responsible for raising a claim of self-defense, but the burden of proof remains on the prosecution.

In certain cases, deadly force can be seen as reasonable force if the person believes that their life is in danger, or if they believe their home is being unlawfully entered.

"Based upon the particular evidence and circumstances of this case, we have determined that Curt Andersen's actions do not fall within the legal protections provided by Indiana's Stand Your Ground law," Boone County Prosecutor Kent Eastwood said on Nov. 17. "This case is not about undermining the law  it is about applying the law to the facts of this case, and that is what we intend to prove at trial."

Indiana Castle Doctrine Law: Can I shoot someone on my Indiana property? A lawyer explains Indiana Castle Doctrine

The claim: The Whitestown homeowner hired a high-powered attorney

Guy Relford, one of the state's most prominent gun rights attorneys, opened the Nov. 8 episode of his weekly radio show by acknowledging that he'd been hired by a "party involved" in the Whitestown shooting. He did not specify his client's role.

Our rating: True.

Prior to the unveiling of criminal charges, Relford confirmed to IndyStar that he had been hired to represent the homeowners as the prosecutor's office deliberated its decision to file charges. He declined to identify his clients by name at that time.

Online court records show that Andersen has officially retained Relford as his defense attorney. An initial hearing is scheduled for at 10 a.m. Nov. 21.

Relford discussed the charges on WIBC's Hammer and Nigel Show on Nov. 17, maintaining that Andersen's actions were justified under the law.

Guy Relford: 2nd Amendment lawyer hired by homeowners in Whitestown shooting

Read the court documents filed in the Whitestown, Indiana, shooting

Noe Padilla is a public safety reporter for IndyStar. Contact him at npadilla@indystar.com, follow him on X @1NoePadilla or on Bluesky @noepadilla.bsky.social. Ryan Murphy is the communities reporter for IndyStar. She can be reached at rhmurphy@indystar.com. Jade Jackson is a public safety reporter for the Indianapolis Star. You can email her at Jade.Jackson@IndyStar.com and follow her on X, formerly Twitter @IAMJADEJACKSON.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Fatal Whitestown shooting of house cleaner sparks misinformation online
Nov. 18 (UPI) -- Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday rebuffed the idea of the U.S. military intervening within her country's borders to combat drug trafficking despite recent remarks from President Donald Trump.

Sheinbaum made the comments during a press conference Tuesday as the Trump administration pursues its increasingly militarized approach to drug trafficking.

Sheinbaum said Trump had offered during multiple phone conversations to send troops to Mexico to help authorities combat criminal groups. While Sheinbaum said she was willing to share information and work with the United States, she would not accept a foreign government intervening in her country.

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"We don't want intervention from any foreign government," said Sheinbaum in Spanish. She noted that Mexico lost half its territory the last time the United States had a military presence in her country, a reference to the U.S.-Mexico war of the 19th century.

She added she was open to "collaboration and coordination without subordination" to the United States and had communicated the same message to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday rejected U.S. military intervention in her country to combat drugs. File Photo by Isaac Esquivel

The Trump administration has launched a series of strikes targeting boats allegedly carrying drugs across the Pacific to the United States. Military officials have justified the strikes as legally permissible after the U.S. government designated drug traffickers as "terrorist organizations."

Speaking to reporters Monday, Trump said the strikes had significantly reduced drug trafficking across waterways and prevented U.S. citizens from fatal overdoses. When asked if he was open to military strikes against Mexico, Trump indicated he was open to the idea, citing "big problems" in Mexico City.

"So let me just put it this way, I am not happy with Mexico," he said.
The high school student who was found dead aboard a Carnival Horizon cruise ship in the Caribbean may have died as a result of foul play, according to multiple reports.

Anna Kepner, 18, was pronounced dead in international waters on Friday, November 7 while on trip with her family. The FBI, who began their investigation when the ship docked in Miami the next day, had not released any details about what happened.

But an unrelated legal document obtained by the Daily Mail indicates a shocking twist. Shauntel Hudson  who recently married Annas dad, Chris Kepner  filed a motion on Monday, November 17 asking for more time to respond to filings related to her 2024 divorce, citing an extremely sensitive and severe circumstance, the outlet reported.

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Currently there is an investigation being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (F.B.I.) arising out of the sudden death of eighteen-year-old Anna Kepner, the filing reads, adding that Hudson had been advised that a criminal case may be initiated against one of her minor children.

Any testimony the Respondent may give, either written or oral, could be prejudicial to her or her adolescent child in this pending criminal investigation, therefore the Respondent cannot be compelled to testify, the filing continued.

According to NBC News, another filing on Tuesday, November 18 identifies her teenage son as a suspect.

As the Daily Mail had previously reported, sources said Anna complained of illness and returned to her cabin on the evening of Thursday, November 6. The next morning, a housekeeper found her body under her bed, wrapped in a blanket and covered in life jackets.

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The Titusville, Florida, high school senior was vacationing with her dad, stepmother and three stepsiblings.

Everybody was questioned. Everybody came off that ship. I dont know who they are looking at or what their investigation is, Chris told the Daily Mail on Wednesday, November 12. Anna was an 18-year-old, beautiful young girl; she had a whole life ahead of her.

Anna was pure energy: bubbly, funny, outgoing, and completely herself, her obituary reads. She loved her siblings deeply.

Carnival Cruise Line confirmed her passing in a statement to ABC News: Our focus is on supporting the family of our guest and cooperating with the FBI.

Read More From Globe

This story Shocking Twist in 18-Year-Olds Cruise Ship Death: FBI Is Investigating Her Teen Stepbrother first appeared on Globe. Add Globe as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
A Los Angeles County jury convicted a Lancaster couple of murder and child abuse on Tuesday for stabbing and decapitating two of their children, then forcing their two other younger children to view their bodies while keeping them locked up for days without food, prosecutors said.

Maurice Jewel Taylor Sr., 39, and Natalie Sumiko Brothwell, 48, were each found guilty of two counts of first-degree murder, along with the special circumstance of multiple murder, making them potentially eligible for the death penalty, according to the Los Angeles County District Attorney's Office.

A gavel and handcuffs.

They were also each convicted of child abuse likely to cause great bodily injury or death.

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The killings took place on Nov. 29, 2020, at the family home in the 45000 block of Century Circle in Lancaster.

Prosecutors argued during the trial that the couple had "fatally stabbed and decapitated" their 12-year-old son, Maurice Taylor Junior, and 13-year-old daughter, Maliaka Taylor, at the family's home in Lancaster, according to a district attorney's office statement.

"They then forced their two younger sons, ages 8 and 9, to view their siblings bodies and remain confined in their bedrooms without food for several days," the statement said.

A motive was not clear.

Life in prison without the possibility of parole

Prosecutors did not seek capital punishment in the case.

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Taylor and Brothwell each face a potential maximum sentence of life without the possibility of parole, plus an additional six years and four months, officials said.

Sentencing was scheduled for Jan. 13 in the Antelope Valley branch of Los Angeles County Superior Court.

'A monstrous act of cruelty'

L.A. County District Attorney Nathan Hochman described the crime as "a monstrous act of cruelty that shattered an entire family."

"Two innocent children were brutally murdered, and their young brothers were left to live through unimaginable horror," he said. "The jurys verdict delivers justice for these victims and sends a powerful message: Those who commit such evil acts will be held fully accountable."

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Hochman credited prosecutors from the Sex Crimes Division and Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department investigators for their work in helping secure the conviction.

"(They) pieced this gruesome case together and presented it compellingly to the jury," he said.

This article originally appeared on Palm Springs Desert Sun: SoCal parents convicted of decapitating two children in 'gruesome case'
A complaint to the Mississippi Health Department resulted in a C for a Gulfport restaurant and three other Coast kitchens also failed their inspection since Nov. 1, two of them at Edgewater Mall.

Cheema Foodies, 12515 Three Rivers Road, Gulfport, was inspected Nov. 13 following a complaint.

It was cited for insects, rodents or animals present. The health department report doesnt specify which was found.

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This is the second C since April 2024.

Restaurants and kitchens in Mississippi receive an A if they pass the health department inspection, a B if all violations are corrected during the inspection and a C if the violations are critical.

See-Wee-Roll, 2600 Beach Blvd. at Edgewater Mall in Biloxi was inspected Nov. 18 for a permit renewal. It was cited for:

Proper disposition of returned, previously served, reconditioned and unsafe food

Hot and cold water not available at adequate pressure

Corrected during the inspection were:

Adequate handwashing facilities supplied and accessible

Food separated and protected

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This was the fourth C since August 2023.

Big Bens Bar-B-Q and More, 2600 Beach Blvd., at the food court at Edgewater Mall in Biloxi was inspected Nov. 18 for a permit renewal. It was cited for:

Adequate handwashing facilities not supplied and accessible, a repeat violation

Last inspection grade not posted

Corrected during the inspection was:

Food contact surface cleaned and sanitized

This is the second C this year.

Gulfport Nutrition, 15456 Dedeaux Road, Gulfport, was inspected Nov. 18 for a permit renewal. It was cited for:

Adequate handwashing facilities not supplied and accessible

Last inspection grade not posted

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This is the first C dating back to 2018.

Restaurants generally are inspected once or twice a year and most pass with no issues. Since Nov. 1, inspectors gave 145 As for no violations and nine Bs when any violations were corrected during the inspection.
JUBA, South Sudan (AP)  South Sudan has resumed transporting and exporting crude oil after drone attacks on two key oil installations in neighboring Sudan forced an emergency shutdown of cross-border operations, a senior official said Wednesday.

Petroleum Ministry Undersecretary Deng Lual Wol told reporters in Juba that operations across all oil fields in South Sudan have returned to normal and that crude was again flowing through pipelines to export terminals in Port Sudan on the Red Sea.

Crude oil exports are now flowing normally from South Sudan through the designated pipelines to the export point at the marine terminal in the Red Sea, said Lual.

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Oil production in South Sudan was disrupted last week after drone attacks carried out by the Rapid Support Forces, or RSF, targeted the Heglig oil processing facility, near the border with Sudan which has been embroiled in a civil war for more than two years.

The strikes hit the sites maintenance workshop and laboratory, killing a staff member.

A second drone attack on Nov. 15 targeted the Al Jabalyn processing site, located further east in Sudan, and its power plant.

Oil companies operating in both countries were reported to have temporarily halted output following the assaults.

We assure the public that crude oil exports from South Sudan have been fully restored and operations in the Paloch, Unity, and Tharjiath fields have returned to normal, Lual said.

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The ministry praised the rapid response from technical teams in South Sudan and Sudan. Their swift action has minimized the impact of these incidents on our national economy and ensured the protection of vital oil assets, Lual said.

Lual said leaders in both countries are engaging a third-party country to prevent the RSF, the paramilitary group fighting since 2023 to take over Sudan, from further strikes on oil infrastructure located in Sudans territory.

He added that protecting the pipeline and export corridor is essential for both nations.

As a landlocked country, South Sudan has the right to access seaports under international law, Lual said.
Spirit Airlines is bringing back a nonstop route this winter between Palm Beach International Airport and a New York City area airport  a route that last appeared in February 2021.

Spirit will start fly between PBIA and Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey starting Dec. 4, the low-cost airline said Nov. 18 in a news release. Flights will be as cheap as $30 one-way, taking about two hours and 40 minutes. That is cheaper and faster than competitors' offers.

Nonstop one-way flights from PBIA to Newark cost $69 to $84 for airlines such as JetBlue Airways and United Airlines.

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One-way direct flights between PBIA and the two major airports within New York City proper  John F. Kennedy International Airport and LaGuardia Airport  cost at least $64 on airlines such as JetBlue, American Airlines and Delta Airlines.

Flights on Spirit's competitors take more than two hours and 40 minutes, but less than three hours.

Passengers can book flights online at Spirit.com.

Spirit's expansion at PBIA comes as it has been forced to cut flights elsewhere across the country. The airline filed for bankruptcy in August, months after a massive reorganization of the company following a previous bankruptcy filing in November 2024.

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Spirit suspended 11 routes in October, including flights servicing airports in Birmingham, Alabama; Chattanooga, Tennessee; and the California cities of Oakland, San Diego, San Jose and Sacramento.

RELATED STORY: Spirit Airlines cancels 11 routes amid bankruptcy woes. See shuttered flights.

FROM OUR READERS: Don't disgrace PBIA with Trump name change

ALSO: Students from West Palm's Greene School honor PBIA air traffic controllers

A Spirit Airlines plane flies out of Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport on Aug. 29, 2025.

Along with the revival of its PBIA-Newark route, Spirit will launch new service from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to Key West, the Cayman Islands and Belize. "Were continuing to focus our strongest performing markets," a representative for the Dania Beach-based company said.

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Spirit flew about 50,000 people out of PBIA during the 12 months ending in September, PBIA reports show. That's a decline of about 26,000 from the previous year.

The airline's business from Fort Lauderdale seen a greater loss in passengers. It flew about 6.9 million people in and out of Fort Lauderdale between January and September, a 1.5 million-passenger decline from the same time period in 2024.

Chris Persaud covers transportation in Palm Beach County for The Palm Beach Post. Email news tips and article ideas to cpersaud@pbpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Spirit bringing back New York City-area flights to West Palm Beach
UPDATE: The intersection reopened to traffic at 3:30 a.m. Wednesday, following a 12-hour closure.

LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Metro police said a speeding driver caused a multi-vehicle crash that left two people dead and several more hospitalized in the northwest valley.

The crash took place shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday along Cheyenne Avenue and Jones Boulevard.

Two people were pronounced dead at the scene, and four other individuals were taken to an area hospital with injuries, Las Vegas Metro police told 8 News Now.

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One of the vehicles involved was traveling at a high rate of speed east on Cheyenne approaching Jones and collided with several vehicles stopped at an intersection light, police said.

You can look at the wreckage left due to this vehicles driving, LVMPD Deputy Chief Jose Hernandez said. Its yet another reminder of how 10 families whose lives will be changed forever.

A multi-vehicle crash left two people dead in the northwest valley. The crash took place shortly after 3:30 p.m. on Tuesday along Cheyenne Avenue and Jones Boulevard. (Ozzy Mora/KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS) Multi-vehicle crash at Cheyenne and Jones on Nov. 18, 2025. (KLAS)

High speeds are never OK, Hernandez said. You can see the result of that behind me. We all have to take an active role in how we drive.

Preliminary details in Metros investigation indicated that speed was the main factor in the crash, according to police.

This has to stop, LVMPD Deputy Chief Jose Hernandez said Tuesday night. (KLAS)

Shortly after 5:30 p.m. Las Vegas Metro police posted on its Facebook page regarding the crashes officers responded to on Tuesday, which read in part:

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Three fatal crashes in under 24 hours. This is not normal. One of these collisions claimed two lives. Three lives gone in a single day. Three families shattered. And all of it preventable. Avoid the area of west Cheyenne Avenue and north Jones Boulevard. Our roads are wet. Conditions are dangerous. Drivers are still going too fast, too distracted, and too careless for what the roadway demands. We cannot, and will not allow this level of tragedy to become our new normal in Las Vegas.

The intersection is closed in all directions as a result of the crash. Drivers should avoid the area.

The crash remains under investigation.

This is a developing story; check back for updates.

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Copyright 2025 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
When undergraduate researcher Mitchell Davis began blending fish guts for a study at Brigham Young University, Idaho, he didn't expect to uncover something disturbing lurking in the local waterways. But after examining 48 fish from nine sites across Idaho's Upper Snake River watershed, including the Teton River and Island Park, Davis and his research adviser Ryan Sargeant found microplastics in nearly every fish they sampled.

What's happening?

According to Jackson Hole News & Guide, the team discovered tiny plastic particles in 40 of the 48 fish, mostly in their gastrointestinal tracts but also in their livers and eggs. That finding was especially alarming  it suggests that plastic pollution is spreading throughout the fishes' internal organs, not just passing through their systems.

Most of the particles came from textiles (synthetic clothing fibers that shed during washing) and plastic bags or wraps. Some were even as large as pieces of glitter. Older fish contained higher concentrations of plastic, indicating long-term buildup over time.

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"I didn't think that there was a high probability we'd see plastics that big moving outside of the GI tract," Sargeant said, per the News & Guide.

Why is this discovery important?

Microplastics  fragments of plastic smaller than 5 millimeters  have become one of the world's most widespread pollutants, and freshwater ecosystems are increasingly showing their effects. When these particles enter rivers, lakes, and streams, they don't just harm fish and wildlife  they also pose risks to human health.

Researchers worry that plastics could migrate into the muscle tissue of fish  the part people eat. If that's the case, microplastics may already be making their way into our food supply. Beyond consumption, scientists warn that exposure to plastic-related chemicals can disrupt hormone balance and cause long-term health problems.

What's being done about it?

Sargeant's team plans to expand its research to analyze muscle tissue and snowpack, investigating whether microplastics are entering the watershed through melting snow. Across the U.S., researchers are also testing new filtration systems and fabric innovations that can prevent synthetic fibers from shedding during laundry.

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Everyday actions can make a difference, too, like washing clothes in cold water, using filters that catch microfibers, and cutting back on single-use plastics. Because as Davis' discovery shows, our plastic problem may be smaller than we can see  but it's everywhere we look.

Join our free newsletter for good news and useful tips, and don't miss this cool list of easy ways to help yourself while helping the planet.
Young students and community members in Dana Point are grieving after a 13-year-old boy was fatally struck by a hit-and-run driver while he was on his way to school.

The boy was identified as Luis Adrian Morales-Pacheco of San Juan Capistrano. He was a student at Niguel Hills Middle School.

Luis was struck Tuesday morning near the intersection of Park Lantern and Dana Point Harbor Drive, according to the Orange County Sheriff's Department. He was walking to school with his brother, according to Sgt. Lizbeth Gwisdalla. The brother was not injured.

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"He was in my 5th-period history class," said Luis's classmate, Harper Waters. "I didn't know him very well, but he was a very kindhearted person. He didn't make just me, but he made a lot of kids smile. I'd walk into that class with such a bad attitude, and I'd come out with a smile because of him."

What we know about the suspect

The sheriff's department identified the suspect as 59-year-old Bradley Gene Funk of San Juan Capistrano, who was on probation.

According to criminal records, he has two prior DUI arrests. Funk has since been booked for felony DUI, felony hit-and-run and murder.

Investigators said he did not stop to render aid or call for help and instead fled the scene.

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"As you can see, it jumped the curb right there," said Gwisdalla. "The 13-year-old boy was standing on the curb, waiting for the light, and it jumped the curb, went over the center median there, then corrected back onto the road and continued down towards Pacific Coast Highway."

Witnesses helped detectives identify the vehicle and ultimately led them to Funk.

"It was located about two to three miles from here," said Gwisdalla. "Thanks to some witnesses and whatnot, we were able to find them, and he was detained."

"It's definitely a tragedy, and any way that you look at it, especially for the parents, it's going to be a difficult situation, our worst nightmare, and our hearts really go out to them," she added.

READ ALSO | Investigation finds California isn't strongly punishing DUIs as alcohol-related road deaths increase

Young students honor their classmate

About six miles away from the Niguel Hills Middle School campus, a memorial for Luis is beginning to grow.

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Eyewitness News watched as an 11-year-old girl, one of Luis's friends from school, arrived with her mother, with a bouquet of flowers and a candle.

"I kind of wanted to support him and like, know he's doing good, and know like, people are remembering him," said Ireland McGarvin.

Students said the school has made counselors available to anyone who may need them. They also said they plan to wear blue in honor of Luis.

"'LLL' means 'Long Live Luis,'" said Waters. "My friends came up with it, and I've been following it because I think that's a good thing to remember him by."

The boy's family set up a GoFundMe page to raise money for his funeral.
This story was originally published on CFO Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily CFO Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Papa Johns appointed its CFO and Executive Vice President, International Ravi Thanawala to the dual role of finance chief and president, North America, the pizza chain announced Tuesday in a press release and securities filing.

Effective Tuesday, Thanawala will lead the Louisville, Kentucky-based companys North American business as part of the president role, including restaurant operations and development strategies, alongside his CFO responsibilities, according to the press release. Papa Johns promoted Chris Lyn-Sue, its SVP, head of international markets to take over Thanawalas international responsibilities also effective Nov. 18, with Lyn-Sue serving as SVP, general manager of international, according to the press release.

In association with the dual appointment, Papa Johns raised Thanawalas base salary to $700,000 from $675,000, as well as increased his annual target bonus opportunity to 100% of his base salary from 75%, according to the filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

Dive Insight:

The appointment is part of a growing trend of companies tapping their finance leaders for additional responsibilities outside of traditional finance or accounting.

Businesses with leaders serving in combined roles, such as the dual role of CFO and chief operating officer or CFO and president, have become more commonplace over the past few years. In 2024, UnitedHealth and Hilton Grand Vacations were two companies which appointed their CFOs to the added role of president, CFO Dive reported at the time.

However, for better or worse, moving a CFO into an operations role usually signals belt-tightening and a push for financial discipline, Shawn Cole, president of boutique executive search firm Cowen Partners told CFO Dive in an email. You can see it in the headlines: Papa Johns, plans to close up to 70 North American locations in 2025 as part of a broader effort to improve profitability after declining same-store sales.

The pizza chain has quietly shuttered dozens of locations as it seeks to move forward with a plan to cut costs amid dropping sales. For the full-year, Papa Johns expects North American closures to be the higher end of our historical average of approximately 1.5% to 2%, Thanawala said during its third quarter earnings call, in keeping with its prior estimates. The business currently operates 3,516 locations in North America, bringing its potential closures this year to between 53 and 70 locations, the Street reported in August.
Tesla is reportedly facing a number of lawsuits that allege design flaws in its Cybertruck led to fatal crashes.

What's happening?

Fuel Arc reported that Cybertrucks have twice been involved in crashes in which the truck caught fire, the doors were unable to be opened, and the occupant or occupants died. In each case  the latest filed in October, according to the Guardian  a wrongful-death lawsuit was filed against the electric vehicle maker.

The lawsuits, stemming from 2024 crashes in California and Texas, allege that, when the Cybertrucks lost power, the manual overrides to open the doors were not easily accessible, essentially trapping people inside.

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"This case arises from catastrophic design defects in the Tesla Cybertruck that turned a survivable crash into a fatal fire," one of the California complaints reads.

The Texas crash resulted in the death of the driver. Three young people were killed in the California collision, with a fourth rescued after a witness broke one of the windows with a tree branch.

"The Cybertruck's design made it nearly impossible to open the doors once electrical power was lost," the Texas lawsuit reads.

Why is this important?

This has been a bad year for the Cybertruck.

Once a headline-maker solely for its unique, futuristic look, the truck has been recalled a number of times, and sales dipped so low that some insurance companies no longer cover the vehicle.

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But, of course, those issues pale in comparison to allegations that design flaws led to deaths. The central issue in these cases is the truck's doors, which  like other Tesla vehicles  feature exterior handles that are flush with the body and operate electronically.

The plaintiffs accuse Tesla of having not made a functioning, easily accessible emergency release to open the Cybertruck if it loses power.

What's being done about this?

The Cybertruck isn't Tesla's only model that has raised safety concerns.

In September, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration opened an investigation into 2021 Model Ys, citing complaints the agency received about the door handles. The NHTSA has received even more complaints since announcing that investigation, with people again alleging they were unable to open their doors after their Teslas lost power.

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New regulations in China may force the company to redesign the handles  at least within that country  a move that Tesla's chief designer, Franz von Holzhausen, said "makes a lot of sense."



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Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Texas Gov. Gregg Abbott has designated two Muslim groups, including the United States' largest, on accusations of being terrorist organizations.

The proclamation from Abbott, a Republican and President Donald Trump ally, designates the Council on American-Islamic Relations and the Muslim Brotherhood as foreign terrorist organizations and transnational criminal organizations.

The designation puts both organizations and their members under "heightened enforcement" while prohibiting them from purchasing or acquiring land in the Lone Star State.

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Abbott blacklisted them by claiming they want to "forcibly impose Sharia law and establish Islam's 'mastership of the world.'" No proof of either claim was provided.

"These radical extremists are not welcome in our state and are now prohibited from acquiring any real property interest in Texas," Abbott said in a statement.

CAIR, the United States' largest Muslim advocacy group, was founded in 1994 with the mission to promote justice, protect civil rights and empower American Muslims. CAIR condemns all acts of terrorism by any group designated by the United States as a terrorism organization, including Hamas.

The Muslim Brotherhood was founded in Egypt in the 1920s, renounced violence in the 1970s and now provides a mixture of religious teaching with political activism and social support, such as operating pharmacies, hospitals and schools, according the Council on Foreign Relations.

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CAIR said its Texas chapter will continue its civil rights work and that its lawyers are considering legal action, calling Abbott's designation "defamatory and lawless."

In response, CAIR sent Abbott a letter refuting his accusations while accusing his office of spending months "stoking anti-Muslim hysteria" to smear those critical of Israel over its war in Gaza.

"Unlike your office, which has unleashed violence against Texas students protesting the Gaza genocide to satisfy you AIPAC donors, our civil rights organization answers to the American people, relies on support form the American people and stands up for American values," Robert McCaw, director of government affairs at CAIR, said in the letter.

State Rep. Ron Reynolds, a Democrat, chastised Abbott's designation as "discriminatory, dangerous and an attack on Muslim families."

"I will not stay silent while innocent Texans are targeted," he said in a statement. "This is the moment to stand up, speak our and make good trouble."
Audio recording is automated for accessibility. Humans wrote and edited the story. See our AI policy, and give us feedback.

The Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission moved forward on Tuesday with its efforts to regulate the sale of consumable hemp products as questions swirled around the future of the industry due to federal restrictions on the products approved by Congress last week.

A provision of the funding bill for the U.S. Department of Agriculture that ended the longest government shutdown on record also undid a provision of the 2018 farm bill that first allowed Texas $8 billion hemp industry to thrive.

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The funding bill bans the sale of hemp-derived products with more than 0.4 milligrams of tetrahydrocannabinol, or THC, the psychoactive element also found in marijuana. That provision, which criminalizes almost all consumable hemp products sold across the country, will put Texas law in direct conflict with the federal law when it takes effect next November.

In spite of the impending federal restrictions, TABC intends to proceed with the adoption of permanent regulations on the hemp industry in Texas that will replace emergency rules adopted by the commission in September that barred the sale of THC products to anyone younger than 21. Advocates and trade representatives who testified at the TABC meeting Tuesday said they do not expect the federal restrictions to be the final word on the debate.

What we understand is this is still a conversation that is happening at (the federal) level, Shaun Salvaje, a veteran who uses consumable hemp products and an advocate for cannabis reform, told the commission. You have a unique opportunity to regulate an industry that is built by Texans for Texans.

The commissioners are following the executive order Gov. Greg Abbott issued in September that directed both TABC and the Department of State Health Services to impose stricter regulations on the hemp businesses they license, like an age restriction on sales to minors and mandatory ID verification at the point of sale.

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That executive order came after Abbott in June vetoed a legislative ban on the products and the Legislature was unable to come to a consensus on regulations during two special sessions this summer.

DSHS in October approved its own emergency rules that require sellers of consumable hemp to verify with a valid ID that a customer is at least 21 years old, violations of which may lead to the revocation of a license or registration.

TABCs latest proposed rules

TABCs proposed permanent rules were introduced at the Tuesday meeting, and commissioners also voted to begin a public input period that will conclude on Jan. 4. The commission will vote on the formal adoption of the regulations in January.

TABCs proposed rules are largely aligned with the emergency rules it approved in September, but pulls back on some of the stricter measures. The new proposal removes a one strike provision that allows TABC to revoke the license of any business found to have sold the products to a minor or failed to check ID. The permanent rules allow for the agency to temporarily suspend licenses for less egregious violations.

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Two trade group representatives of convenience stores in the state testified that they support a less punitive approach to potential violations, arguing the automatic cancellation under the emergency rules risks putting stores out of business over a simple mistake.

TABCs permanent rules would apply to businesses that have liquor licenses and sell hemp products, such as restaurants and bars that sell THC drinks and convenience stores that sell both alcohol and THC products.

Further public comment will take place over the coming weeks both submitted and at a public hearing planned for Dec. 11, TABC staff said.

Another fight for the hemp industry

Commissioner Hasan K. Mack said the agency intends to act regardless of the actions at the federal level.

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Were going to do what the governor tells us we need to do  thats all we can do right now until we get further guidance from the governors office, Mack said. There is no benefit in allowing underage Texans to consume hemp products.

Abbott has not provided additional guidance to the agencies since the federal restrictions were approved, and his office did not respond to a request for comment Tuesday.

The federal restrictions signed by President Donald Trump last week invoke a sense of deja vu in Texas, where advocates and trade groups sprung into action following the legislative approval of a ban on the sale of the products this spring. After weeks of lobbying the governors office, Abbott split from more conservative members of his party and vetoed the ban, citing the industrys economic impact.

The industry is gearing up for a similar fight, this time in Washington.

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Hemp is too vital to the American economy and to the livelihoods of millions to be dismantled by rushed, politically driven legislation, the Texas Hemp Business Council said in a statement last week. As we proved in Texas, we will continue to pursue every legal and legislative option to overturn these harmful provisions and restore a fair, science-based system that continues to protect minors, ensure product safety and preserve the economic opportunities Congress created in 2018.

It is also unclear how aggressively the federal restrictions will be enforced once they go into effect. Since 1970, marijuana, hemps cousin, has been classified as a Schedule I drug under the Controlled Substances Act, the most restrictive classification, but that prohibition is generally not enforced in states where it is legal. There are 40 states, including Texas, that have medical marijuana programs. In 24 states, marijuana is legal for recreational use.

Like in Texas, all branches of the federal government are controlled by the Republican Party, which has historically been more hostile to recreational cannabis use. However, political winds have changed in recent years.

U.S. Reps. Dan Crenshaw, R-Houston, and Troy Nehls, R-Richmond, both voted in favor of the funding bill that included the restrictions, citing the need to end the government shutdown as quickly as possible. They both also said they oppose the federal restrictions on the hemp industry and hope Congress will address the issue again.

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Texas Sen. Ted Cruz was one of two Republican senators to vote in favor of a failed amendment that would have removed the restrictions from the funding bill.

Even Trump, who the White House said was supportive of the restrictions in the funding bill, in September endorsed Medicare coverage of CBD  a cannabidiol substance derived from the cannabis plant that would also likely be federally banned by the new restrictions.

As cannabis and hemp-derived products have become more common throughout the country, Texas Cannabis Policy director Heather Fazio said much of the taboo around their use has fallen away, allowing for the issue to become more bipartisan. The debate at the federal level comes at a moment where the industry is maturing and ready to wade into the world of political lobbying, Fazio said.

Weve come to a place, at least in Texas, where THC is a legal commodity that responsible adults are enjoying, and it came about in a way that was much different than many of us would have expected, Fazio said. Now, to have this big wall that we hit at the federal level, thank goodness for the one year lead time we have because I think were going to have some significant lobbying efforts step up. For the industry, we need to treat this like a political movement.
Israel is accelerating targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions, leading to Lebanon filing an urgent complaint to the UN Security Council, in a moment of increasing friction.

As Lebanon struggles to implement the US-brokered 2024 ceasefire framework, which commits Beirut to disarming all nonstate armed groups by the end of 2025, a recent remark by a senior Lebanese government figure has ignited new tensions on the already volatile northern front. The official suggested that Hezbollah has a right to rearma declaration that landed poorly in Jerusalem, where Israeli leaders have repeatedly warned that the group is rebuilding its capabilities far faster than the Lebanese state is trying to curb them.

The comments come at a moment of mounting friction: Israel is accelerating targeted strikes against Hezbollah positions; Lebanon has filed an urgent complaint to the UN Security Council over an Israeli concrete barrier it says crosses the Blue Line; and tens of thousands of Israeli civilians displaced since last years conflict remain unable to return home.

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Meanwhile, diplomatic efforts to enforce UN Security Council Resolution 1701, which ended the 2006 war, have faltered. Patrols by the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL) continue, but neither Israel nor Lebanon believes the mechanism can resolve the deeper structural failures that have persisted for nearly two decades.

A recent UN report warns that both Hezbollah and Israel have increased military activity along the frontier throughout 2025, raising concerns that limited engagements could escalate quickly in the absence of a durable political arrangement.

Inside Lebanon, the claim that Hezbollah has a right to rearm has been widely interpreted as political signaling rather than a formal shift in policy.

The IDFs exercise to enhance operational readiness along the Lebanon border, October 23, 2025 (credit: IDF SPOKESPERSON UNIT)

Lebanese political analyst Azzam, who asked that his surname be withheld for security reasons, told The Media Line that the remark should be read as strategic posturing meant to bolster the official's standing within his community in response to Israeli actions in the south. He emphasized that the government still backs the disarmament framework and that top leaders remain committed to a negotiated process that eventually brings Hezbollahs arsenal under state control.

Hezbollah's arms must fall under state authority

Figures like President [Joseph] Aoun and Prime Minister [Nawaf] Salam have made clear that Hezbollahs arms must eventually fall under state authoritythrough gradual, negotiated mechanisms, not abrupt confrontation, he noted.

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From the Israeli side, the reaction is sharper. Avraham Levine, speaker and digital content manager at the Alma Research and Education Center, told The Media Line that Jerusalem sees little evidence that Beirut has shown real movement toward its disarmament pledges and that the only actor consistently following its own agenda is Hezbollah, which openly acknowledges rebuilding its forces.

The only party in Lebanon staying true to its word is Hezbollah itself, he said, adding that the rhetoric of Naim Qassem, the groups leader, makes clear it wont relinquish its weapons and is prepared to intimidate its own government.

Beiruts decision to file an urgent complaint to the UN Security Council over a newly erected Israeli concrete wallwhich UNIFIL says overlaps the Blue Line and restricts Lebanese access to more than 4,000 square meters [1 acre] of landhas further inflamed tensions.

Azzam said that Lebanon sees the move as more than a technical dispute. Beiruts complaint was meant to shift the narrative by spotlighting Israeli actions along the Blue Line and positioning Israelnot Lebanonas the party undermining the ceasefire arrangements. Officials want to demonstrate that it is Israel breaching the ceasefire arrangements, he said.

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Levine rejected the notion that Israel is trying to claim new territory. I do not have sufficient information about the so-called violation. Israel has no need or ambition to take over more land there. The only goal Israel has in mind is to create and maintain security for Israeli civilians living in the north, he noted.

Analysts on both sides agree that the northern front is balanced on a narrow edge.

Azzam described a fluid environment in which the likelihood of confrontation often shifts, with both sides engaging in calibrated steps that maintain a precarious balance. He said this pattern allows all actors to pursue their interests even as it leaves the border vulnerable to sudden escalation. These scenarios oscillate every few days. ... This status quo serves all sideswhile still being a ticking time bomb, he said.

He also noted that Lebanon has quietly floated frameworks combining border demarcation, mutual guarantees, and phased disarmament, but stressed that Israel would not approve any of this without what it considers a strategic solution to the Hezbollah problem in the north.

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On the Israeli side, the assessment is similar: Stability is fragile, and miscalculation is a constant threat.

Levine said both parties prefer to maintain the current situation and are actively rebuilding, but warned that even a small error could trigger a rapid escalation. He added that he sees no plausible path for Hezbollah to give up its weapons or for the Lebanese Armed Forces to mount a significant operation against the group. In his view, Resolution 1701 proved ineffective from 2006 to 2023, and the underlying conditions remain much the same today.

Inside Israel, more than 60,000 displaced residents from northern communities have yet to return home, fueling pressure on the government to create conditions for safe resettlement.

Levine said the return of displaced Israelis has become central to national policy and argued that Israel will keep pressuring Hezbollah to create the conditions for safe resettlement. He warned that even that may not suffice without deeper changes on the Lebanese side. I see the return of all evacuees to their homes in the north as extremely important, he said.

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Lebanon, too, has been facing widespread civilian displacementa point often overlooked in regional and international coverage.

Thousands of Lebanese families fled southern towns like Bint Jbeil, Maroun El Ras, and Aitaroun during Israeli bombardments in 20232024, and many still cannot return due to destroyed homes, unexploded ordnance, or fear of renewed fighting.

Azzam observed that these civilian realities shape the political debate in Beirut in ways outsiders often miss. He explained that although Lebanon remains divided along sectarian lines, communities in the south share the burden of widespread destruction and displacement. These experiences, he said, strongly influence public attitudes toward Hezbollah, the army, and the risks of renewed conflict. Entire neighborhoods were damaged or flattened, and thousands were displaced, he explained.

He also noted that Beirut is under intense external pressure to act quickly but faces the reality that any internal confrontation with Hezbollah could trigger disastrous consequences. Given the limits on the armys authority and capability, he said, the government has little choice but to move cautiously. The army is neither equipped nor authorized to forcibly disarm Hezbollah, he said.

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With Israel determined to secure its northern border and Hezbollah refusing to relinquish its arsenal, the ingredients for a renewed confrontation remain firmly in place. Both sides say they want to avoid another waryet both continue preparing for the possibility of one.

Diplomatic frameworks exist, but implementation has stalled. International mediators warn that without visible progress on disarmament and border arrangements, the next crisis could erupt without warning.

For now, the frontier sits in an uneasy positionshaped by political fragility, military posturing, and the parallel reality that both Israeli and Lebanese civilians remain displaced by a conflict neither government seems fully able to resolve.
Beneath the vast, empty plains of Wyoming, one of the deadliest forces on Earth, the Minuteman 3 ICBM, sits in silent readiness. Although its true power isnt in its launch capability, its in the silent signal it sends to adversaries. That signal is a warning: Today is not the day.

Ensuring that warning is heard, however, is not a job for machines. It is a relentless, 24/7 human mission executed by the 1,367 personnel of the 90th Security Forces Group. As Newsweeks Unconventional host Naveed Jamali saw firsthand at F.E. Warren Air Force Base, this is a mission of staggering scale and surprising youth.

These defenders patrol thousands of square miles, train for unimaginable scenarios, and execute flawless, high-stakes nuclear convoy operations.

The most impressive unconventional truth of the ICBM mission is the age of its security force. The average age is 23.7 Many of the airmen we trust with the nations most devastating weapons are barely old enough to rent a car. Yet, they choose to bear a responsibility that allows no room for error or lapse in judgment.



For them, this isnt a job in the traditional sense; its more of a calling that demands a level of perfection and constant vigilance across terrain quite different from their brethren in the sea and air. Jamali went behind the scenes of that vigilance with the 90th Security Forces Group (SFG) at F.E. Warren Air Force Base in Wyoming and the young troops who work to keep Americas enemies awake at night.

Airman 1st Class Leah Moreland, 90th Missile Security Forces Squadron missile security operator, responds to an alarm at a launch facility near Scottsbluff, Nebraska, February 19, 2025. (U.S. Air Force/Airman 1st Class Mattison Cole)

Securing an Anchor Spread Across Three States

Unlike the other two legs of the nuclear triad (bombers and submarines), the land-based missiles dont move. They are the anchor, a fixed, known quantity that the enemy must account for at all times.

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This is both an advantage and a unique security challenge. The complex houses more than 100 missiles and is dispersed across 9,600 square miles, forcing the 1,367 defenders to drive over four million miles a year just to patrol the vast expanse, according to 90th SFG commander Col. Justin Secrest. The sheer distance alone is a defense, but it is also a logistical battle that must be conquered daily.

The aurora borealis appears in the night sky over the 319th Missile Squadrons Missile Alert Facility A-01 near Albin, Wyoming. (U.S. Air Force/Staff Sgt. Michael A. Richmond)

Speed, Surprise, and Violence of Action

Deterrence is only credible if the force protecting it is lethal, precise, and always ready. At a shoot house on Camp Gernzie, some 90 minutes away, the Tactical Response Force (TRF) trains for the worst-case scenario: retaking a seized nuclear site. Their doctrine is built on speed, surprise, and violence of action. These are the operators who would be inserted by helicopter if a site were ever compromised, trained to neutralize the threat with overwhelming force.

The most surreal display of this security happens on the open road. Jamali witnessed the transfer of a nuclear component, an operation that requires a heavily armed ground convoy and UH-1N Huey helicopters providing overwatch with 30-caliber machine guns.

Its a cinematic show of force, yet it has to hide in plain sight. As the convoy, transporting the most dangerous cargo in America, moves along the interstate, civilian traffic passes by in the next lane, completely oblivious. The choreography is flawless, the execution perfect. It has to be. As the airmen who guard them repeatedly emphasize: these are nuclear weapons. Thats all anyone really needs to say.

The Future: An Ever-Evolving Watch

The mission never ends; therefore, the tools are evolving to match this inevitability. The aging Hueys are being phased out in favor of the faster, more capable MH-139 Grey Wolf. The Minuteman III missile itself is set to be replaced by the next-generation LGM-35A Sentinel.

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The hardware will change, but the core responsibility remains absolute. As one defender put it, America demands security of its nuclear weapons.

In the barren plains of Middle America, these young airmen hold that line. They are the human element of deterrence, the reason the rest of us never have to live through the worst-case scenario. Through every patrol, convoy, and security flight, they remind our adversaries, again and again, that today is not the day.

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When you think of Second World War fighters, the sleekly compact Spitfire and petite Zero come to mind.

But some of the war's most awe-inspiring machines were vast, often ugly, flying juggernauts of death. Here were massive fighters that traded agility for range, toughness and firepower. Bristling with guns, these murderous behemoths brought heavyweight fury to the skies. Here are the 10 largest Fighter Aircraft of the Second World War:

10: Lockheed P-38 Lightning

Lockheed P-38 Lightning

Large, heavy, twin-engine fighter designs were very much in vogue worldwide in the late 1930s, and the Lightning was one of the more radical examples of this trend. It was believed that speed, range, and heavy armament would outweigh the lack of manoeuvrability that a larger fighter would possess.

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This would prove to be partly true. Over Europe, although some pilots did well with it, the P-38 regularly suffered severe losses to German fighters. However, the Lightning did make history in March 1944 when its distinctive shape appeared over Berlin, becoming the first Allied fighter to reach the German capital.

10: Lockheed P-38 Lightning

Lockheed P-38 Lightning

In the Pacific, it was a different story. The Lightnings excellent range, power, devastating firepower and surprisingly good manoeuvrability (except in rate of roll) saw it excel against Japanese aircraft. The two most successful US fighter aces of the war both flew P-38s in the Pacific.

Despite its obvious heft, the P-38L, weighing in at a maximum 21,600 lb (9798 kg), the Lightning is only slightly heavier than a late-war P-47N, which tipped the scales at an incredible 20,700lb (9389 kg), making it the heaviest single-engine fighter of the conflictmuch of this bulk derived from the P-47Ns ludicrous 1266 US-gallon (4792 litres) fuel capacity.

9: Dornier Do 335 Pfeil

Dornier Do 335 Pfeil

Featuring a radical push-pull configuration for its two engines, the Dornier Do 335 is most famous today for its absurdly impressive performance, likely the fastest piston engine fighter of the war to see operational service, bar none. However, for its time, the mighty Pfeil was also an absolutely massive fighter.

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Placing both engines in tandem within the impressively large fuselage reduced drag, improved rate of roll and minimised control issues if one engine should fail. However, the position of the rear propeller made escaping the aircraft problematic, and the Do 335 was one of the first aircraft fitted with an ejection seat.

9: Dornier Do 335 Pfeil

Dornier Do 335 Pfeil

The Do 335 Pfeil made its first flight on 26 October 1943. Tests revealed it possessed exceptional performance. Unfortunately for the Luftwaffe, teething issues, the most serious being a propensity for the rear engine to overheat and catch fire, delayed service entry of the big Dornier.

Although reconnaissance missions were flown as early as May 1944 by pre-production examples, deliveries of the Do 335A-1 fighter-bomber variant only began in January 1945, and fewer than 15 had been built by the end of the war. The lack of German records from this period means their operational use remains obscure.

8: Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse

Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse

The Me 410 was a thoroughly workmanlike aircraft that appeared too late. Essentially, it was an improved Me 210, the designation being changed to try to distance the aircraft from the absolutely disastrous service of the earlier aircraft, which was underpowered and suffered from dangerously poor handling.

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As well as being fast, it was also large. German planners loved the concept of the Zerstorer (Destroyer) class of large, heavy fighters exemplified by the Messerschmitt Bf 110. The later Me 410 boasted more powerful engines, better armament and increased bomb and internal fuel load, all of which led to increased weight.

8: Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse

Messerschmitt Me 410 Hornisse

In service, the Me 410 was fast and powerfully armed and initially successful in bringing down American bombers, but struggled when faced with escort fighters. The large Messerschmitt lacked the manoeuvrability to cope with single-engined fighters, particularly the P-51 Mustang, which was appearing in large numbers over Germany by early 1944.

By contrast, it proved to be an excellent fighter-bomber, proving successful in attacks against targets in the heavily defended south of England. However, the Me 410 did not offer a sufficient increase in effectiveness over the older and cheaper Messerschmitt Bf 110 and production was terminated in September 1944.

PHOTO: Me 410 captured by the British

7: Messerschmitt Bf 110G

Messerschmitt Bf 110G

Earlier variants of the large but slender Bf 110 were comparatively lightweight, but by the time the G model appeared, the Messerschmitt twin was primarily used for night fighting, requiring vast amounts of fuel to be carried for maximum loiter times as well as a heavier armament.

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Combined with this, the aircraft was now carrying bulky electronic equipment, including more than one type of radar, and this resulted in a notably more corpulent machine than the svelte zerstorer of 1940. The Bf 110G had swelled to exceed the mass of its supposed replacement, the Me 410.

7: Messerschmitt Bf 110G

Messerschmitt Bf 110G

Both possessed roughly the same wingspan, but the Bf 110 was longer and now heavier. Without a significant increase in engine power, the Bf 110 was not a very fast aircraft, but this was of limited concern for an aircraft intended to intercept lumbering heavy bombers by night, and it proved highly effective.

So effective, in fact, that the top German night fighter pilot, Heinz-Wolfgang Schnaufer, shot down all 121 of his victories in the Bf 110. However, once the superlative de Havilland Mosquito night fighter began to appear in numbers in the bomber stream, the overweight and slow Bf 110 was profoundly vulnerable if detected.

6: de Havilland Mosquito

de Havilland Mosquito

Several bombers were converted into fighters during the war, though none with the success of the Mosquito. Partly, this was due to its astonishing performance, but the possibility of the aircraft being used as a fighter had, in fact, been envisaged from the very beginning of the design process.

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The Mosquito was famously conceived as a bomber of wooden construction, fast enough to dispense with a defensive gun armament. However, provision for an offensive armament of four cannon had been provided in the forward fuselage. This, combined with four machine guns in the nose, made for a potent armament.

6: de Havilland Mosquito

de Havilland Mosquito

Although justly renowned for its performance, the Mosquito was also, by dint of its bomber origins, one of the wars largest fighters. It was also one of the most effective, becoming the RAFs fourth most successful fighter of the war despite operating only for the last three years of the conflict.

Most of its victories were achieved at night, and the Mosquitos considerable size allowed for a succession of ever more effective airborne radar sets to be carried. At this early stage of development, radar equipment was bulky, heavy, and required a large aircraft. The Mosquito combined size with previously unattainable performance.

5: Bristol Beaufighter

Bristol Beaufighter

The Bristol Beaufighter originated as a heavy fighter adaptation of the Beaufort torpedo bomber. Developed quickly in response to the need for long-range fighters, it first flew in 1939. Its rugged twin-engine design, heavy armament and crew of two made it a good fit for night fighting, ground attack, and anti-shipping.

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Where the de Havilland Mosquito dazzled with its high speed, the Beaufighter impressed with brute strength. It was slower and heavier, but offered heavier firepower and a great deal more ammunition. Equipped with four 20mm Hispano cannons and six machine guns, it could unleash devastating firepower and endure damage that would cripple lighter aircraft.

5: Bristol Beaufighter

Bristol Beaufighter

It was a favourite in ground-attack roles, especially in the Mediterranean and Pacific. Coastal Command used it to hunt U-boats and attack Axis shipping, where its cannon could shred enemy vessels. The Beaufighters ability to carry rockets or torpedoes added other destructive options. As a fighter, it achieved close to 1000 air-to-air victories, and it proved particularly effective at knocking out larger bombers and transport aircraft.

Pilots respected the Beaufighters durability and firepower, often calling it "Beau" for short. Though less glamorous than the Mosquito, it was a dependable and effective platform across varied theatres. Its solid design, payload capacity, and multi-role flexibility helped it serve from early in the war right through to 1945 with distinction.

4: Junkers Ju 88 fighter variants

Junkers Ju 88 fighter variants

The Junkers Ju 88 is so versatile that it seems contractually obligated to appear in every "Top 10 Second World War Aircraft" article ever written. Whether bombing or reconnoitring, or forced into some less likely role, the Ju 88 was seemingly everywhere, doing almost everything.

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The Ju 88C was the Zerstorer heavy fighter variant, and the nocturnal Ju 88G series was generally considered the best night fighter fielded in substantial numbers by the Luftwaffe. Big, heavy, and imposing with a wingspan of 65 feet and a maximum take-off weight of around 30,000 pounds (13,636 kg), the Ju 88 wasnt built for dogfights.

4: Junkers Ju 88 fighter variants

Junkers Ju 88 fighter variants

Yet it was easy to fly, and with its arsenal of machine guns and cannon, and reasonable performance, the Ju 88 could and did act as an effective fighter. By night, the Ju 88G used radar and upward-firing "Schrage Musik" guns to ambush RAF bombers from below with great success.

By day, although too large to turn quickly, and too slow to chase or evade single-engine fighters, the Ju 88 was instead used for bigger quarry. Ju 88s based in France took such a toll of Allied patrol aircraft that some RAF Mosquito units were explicitly tasked with hunting down Ju 88 fighters.

3: Heinkel He 219 Uhu

Heinkel He 219 Uhu

The Heinkel He 219 Uhu (Eagle-Owl) was a massive and extremely heavy night-fighter for its time. With a wingspan over 60 feet and a loaded weight exceeding 30,000 pounds (16,636 kg), it dwarfed many contemporary aircraft. It was designed for speed, endurance, and heavy firepower.

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Technologically, the He 219 was remarkably advanced. It was the first operational aircraft designed to feature ejection seats (the cancelled Heinkel 280 was also designed with one) and carried a sophisticated Lichtenstein SN-2 radar for night interceptions. Further advanced features included a tricycle landing gear, pressurised cockpit, and remote-controlled gun barbettes.

3: Heinkel He 219 Uhu

Heinkel He 219 Uhu

The Uhu could carry a devastating array of weaponry, also including Schrage Musik upward-firing cannons. It proved effective against RAF bombers, notably the Lancaster. Pilots praised the He 219 as a stable gun platform, with radar capabilities and firepower, which made it a formidable night fighter.

Despite its potency, production was limited by political interference and resource shortages. Only about 300 were built, too few to alter the air war. Still, the He 219 left a strong impression on those who flew it and those who faced it, marking it as a standout design in late-war Luftwaffe aviation.

2: Martin B-26 Marauder (fighter roles)

Martin B-26 Marauder (fighter roles)

The oft-maligned Martin B-26 Marauder medium bomber was sufficiently fast and well armed to result in a 1943 proposal to use it to escort heavy bombers. Similar in concept to the YB-40, an up-gunned B-17 intended for bomber escort duties, the Marauder conversion also featured six fixed forward-firing machine guns.

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This would allow it to operate as a conventional fighter and is not as absurd as it sounds, as Colonel Vincent Burnett had flown a B-26 in mock-combat with an F4U Corsair (flown by Marine ace Joe Foss) in which neither aircraft could outmanoeuvre the other, resulting in a draw.

2: Martin B-26 Marauder (fighter roles)

Martin B-26 Marauder (fighter roles)

The escort B-26 was eventually dropped, but the Marauder would be operated as a strike fighter of sorts by the RAF. 14 Squadron in the Mediterranean Theatre used the Marauder in the same manner as local Beaufighter units, flying anti-shipping and long-range patrol missions as well as conventional bombing attacks.

British Marauders also engaged in aerial combat and scored several victories, including downing several huge Me 323 transports. In one engagement off the Algerian coast, Wing Commander Maydwell downed multiple transports, and other 14 Squadron pilots destroyed additional enemy aircraft, including SM.82s, and Ju 52s. One pilot even claimed a Bf 109 fighter.

1: Northrop P-61 Black Widow

Northrop P-61 Black Widow

The massive and sinister Northrop P-61 Black Widow was a ferocious machine. It was the first purpose-designed night interceptor to enter operational service. The forward-looking requirement that led to the aircraft was issued as early as 2 October 1940. Like the P-38 and others, the P-61 was of the twin-boom configuration.

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Pioneering British efforts with radar-equipped fighters had impressed US military planners. Using a first-generation airborne radar effectively required a large aircraft with a dedicated second crew member for its operation. The Black Widow started as a 13,459 kg beast when loaded; by the end of its career, it was a bulky 18,000 kg

1: Northrop P-61 Black Widow

Northrop P-61 Black Widow

To put this in perspective, it was around the same weight as seven fully loaded Spitfire Mk Is. Finding the target with a radar was one thing, but destroying it effectively required firepower; the P-61 boasted four fixed 20-mm cannons in the belly. The first 37 P-61As, the final 250 P-61Bs and all the P-61Cs also had an electric dorsal turret with four heavy machine guns. In addition to being heavily armed, the P-61 had its armament concentrated on its centreline, rather than in the wings, making it more accurate and destructive.

On August 14, 1945, a P-61 Black Widow named Lady in the Dark scored the final aerial victory of the war. Without firing a shot, it forced a Japanese Ki-44 into a fatal crash near Okinawa. The biggest fighter of the war closed the greatest air war in history. (The even bigger McDonnell XP-67 Moonbat first flew on 6 January 1944, but neither fought in the war, nor even entered service.)

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Army Secretary Dan Driscoll and chief of staff Gen. Randy George became the highest-level Trump Pentagon officials to visit Ukraine when they arrived on an unannounced trip this week, as the U.S. moves to find a way to speed the end of the war.

The duo are slated to meet with Ukrainian military leaders, lawmakers and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, starting Wednesday. The tour comes at a time when Russia has stepped up its deadly missile and drone campaign against civilian targets in Ukraine and western allies are scrambling to come up with new ways to keep supplying weapons to the embattled nation.

The focus of the trip will be to engage Ukrainian leadership on the stalled peace process with Russia, even though Moscow has rebuffed all previous attempts by the U.S. and Ukraine to bring the fighting to a halt.

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The U.S. and Ukraine have also been working on a major deal to exchange drone and autonomous munitions technologies, and this trip in part is meant to bolster that effort. Ukraine has emerged as a leader in developing  and improving  long- and short-range armed drones that have changed the face of the battlefield and struck targets deep inside Russia.

The trip was described by two people familiar with the planning who were granted anonymity to discuss sensitive national security issues.

At first blush it would seem an unusual choice to send Driscoll, the Army secretary, to Kyiv on a sensitive peace mission. But the Army vet and Yale law school friend of Vice President JD Vance has emerged as a major figure in the Pentagon and could now be moving into a more prominent role.

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has not traveled to Kyiv.

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Spokespeople for Driscoll and George declined to comment.

Driscoll and George have used Ukrainian battlefield innovations as an example the U.S. defense industry and Pentagon should emulate in weapons development.

When you look at Ukraine, [they] have not accepted the current version of a thing as sufficient, and they have MacGyvered and come up with whatever they have to do to get to an outcome they need, Driscoll told reporters at the Pentagon this month.

There are no rules to get to that outcome, and they just achieve the thing, because they have to, he added. The Army has set a target to buy 1 million drones over the next two to three years, a goal that is far beyond the U.S. defense industry's current capacity, while Ukraine is already producing more than 1.5 million first-person view drones each year.

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The Trump administration has been hot and cold on its military support for Ukraine. Despite several trips to Europe, Hegseth has not engaged with Zelenskyy, though he has at least once moved to stop the flow of weapons to Ukraine, only to have the decision overturned by the White House.

During the Pentagon press conference this month, George, the Armys top officer, added that in studying how Ukraine fights and adopts new technologies quickly, what we picked up from them is really how you can go fast. And, you know, we've tried to replicate that in Army rapid fielding and testing exercises.

Seeing top officials head to Kyiv to talk about weapons development and partnerships would have been unthinkable just a few months ago, after Trump and Vice President JD Vance got into a shouting match with Zelenskyy in the Oval Office.

Vance lashed out at the Ukrainian leader, saying he had not sufficiently thanked the U.S. for tens of billions in military aid, and Zelenskyy and Trump sparred over the direction of the conflict.

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The argument came at the same time Hegseth traveled to Europe for the first time to tell NATO allies they needed to step up military spending because the United States had other priorities. That speech was followed by Vances comments to the Munich Security Conference lambasting Europes political culture.

The three events in rapid succession seemed to spell trouble ahead for U.S.-Europe relations and American support for Ukraine.

Since then, Trump has warmed to Zelenskyy and has enthusiastically backed NATO and its effort to arm Ukraine, as his efforts to engage in diplomacy with Russia have been rebuffed by Vladimir Putin. Meanwhile, Russia has continued to pound Ukraine with aerial attacks, firing 430 drones and 18 missiles into Kyiv on Friday.
France has revealed a brutal clampdown on disruptive air passengers, arguing unruly behaviour poses a growing threat to flight safety.

The French government warns that in Europe, aviation agencies report between 200 and 500 in-air incidents per month. In 2024, the Air Transport Association (IATA) recorded one incident in every 395 flights.

As a result, France has published a decree in the Official Journal, which came into effect earlier this month (8 November) and has set up a specific database to allow French air carriers to report harmful behaviour.

Frances flying crackdown

Air passengers breaching the three main rules will now be subject to hefty fines which can reach 10,000 - or 20,000 in case of repeat offences.

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This includes using an electronic or electrical device when its use has been prohibited during part or all of the flight, as well as obstructing the performance of the flight crew or the safety mission and refusing to comply with a safety instruction given by crew members.

In the most serious of cases, officials have confirmed that passengers could face boarding bans for a period of up to four years.

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These sanctions apply to all flights operated by air carriers holding an operating license issued by France.

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The new rules will co-exist with Frances current administrative sanctions, which include criminal prosecution for the most serious offences. This can lead to up to five years imprisonment and a fine of 75,000.

Jeopardises flight safety

Minister of Transport Philippe Tabarot said that the safety of passengers and crew is the countrys absolute priority, describing disruptive behaviour on board aircraft as unacceptable.

It jeopardises flight safety and compromises the working conditions of flight crews, he added.

With this decree, were equipping ourselves with the means for swift, fair and proportionate enforcement. This new regulatory framework sends a strong message: disruptive behaviour will no longer be tolerated.

Ryanair sues unruly passenger

The sanctions come into effect amidst growing efforts to curb antisocial behaviour on flights across Europe.

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Earlier this year, Ryanair sued a passenger for 15,000 after the budget airline was forced to divert a flight from Dublin to Lanzarote to Portugal.

The plane had to remain in Porto overnight on 9 April 2024, and the airline had to provide 160 passengers with overnight hotel accommodation.

Ryanairdid not give details on the identity of the passenger or their actions, but described their behaviour as inexcusable.

Ryanair has a strict zero tolerance policy towards passenger misconduct and will continue to take decisive action to combat unruly passenger behaviour on aircraft for the benefit of the vast majority of passengers who do not disrupt flights, the airline said.
The J.H. Campbell plant plant, operating since 1962, was originally scheduled to close partially in 2030 and wholly in 2040. But the utility announced in 2021 it was moving the plan up by 15 years for an operations end date of May 31, 2025. [Photo/Courtesy]

A coal-fueled power plant in West Olive, Mich. which was originally set to shut down at the end of May will continue operating after President Donald Trumps Administration issued another extension.

U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright issued the first order prolonging the plants lifespan on May 23, with the Department of Energy saying the move was intended to minimize blackouts in the Midwest ahead of high energy demand expected over the summer, despite projections from the energy grid operator, MISO, that it would have enough energy supply to meet expected consumer demand.

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The latest order will extend operations for the plant through Feb. 17, 2026.

Consumers Energy, which owns the plant, initially sought a shut down of the plant in 2021 as part of its plan to go coal free and transition to clean energy resources. The shutdown was approved by Michigans energy regulators, the Michigan Public Service Commission, alongside the grid operator, which determined the shutdown would not violate its reliability criteria.

Consumers Energy projected the plants closure would save energy customers $650 million by 2040. However, between May 23 and Sept. 30, keeping the plant online has cost the company $80 million, or more than $615,000 a day.

Additionally, testimony presented as part of a legal challenge to the extension found that during the grid operators tightest energy margin over the summer, they had an energy surplus greater than the 10 times the amount of energy produced by the Campbell plant.

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In a statement, Consumers Energy Media Relation Specialist Brian Wheeler said the company is prepared to continue operating the Campbell plant as required by the Department of Energy.

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The costs to operate the Campbell plant will be shared by customers across the Midwest electric grid region  not solely by Consumers Energy customers, Wheeler said. We are planning to submit a cost recovery filing to [the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission] later this year outlining net costs to operate the plant during the first 90 days.

Ted Kelly, director and lead counsel for U.S. clean energy at the Environmental Defense Fund, one of the environmental groups challenging the Department of Energys previous orders, called the mandate a guaranteed way to needlessly hike up Americans electricity bills and make air pollution worse.

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These half-a-century old plants are simply too expensive to operate, too dangerous for our health and break down too often to be counted on, Kelly said. To keep costs down, we should be unleashing  not blocking  the cheapest, fastest and cleanest sources of electricity onto our grid, including solar, wind and battery projects.

Alex Kellogg, the federal energy accountability manager for the Michigan League of Conservation Voters said in a statement that the Trump administration had guaranteed a rate hike, slamming Trumps energy emergency order as a sham to keep the plant operating.

His move to keep Campbell open is making our bills higher and our energy dirtier just to score political points with the dying coal industry that backed him heavily in the election, Kellogg said.

Michael Lenoff, a senior attorney at EarthJustice, which is also challenging the Department of Energys previous orders, emphasized the environmental toll of keeping the plant running.

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These aging coal power plants are increasingly unreliable and prone to breaking down, Lenoff said. Theyre also filthy, dumping toxics into nearby waters (such as Lake Michigan) and spewing pollutants into the air we breathe.

According to the Natural Resources Defense Council, which is also disputing the Department of Energys past orders, the plant releases several millions of pounds of health-harming pollutants and more than 10 billion pounds of carbon dioxide into the air each year. It also releases roughly 100,000 pounds of water pollution into Lake Michigan each year, including 10,000 pounds of toxic metals.
Washington has been secretly forming a plan with Russia to end the war in Ukraine, according to a report.

The new 28-point plan would consist of security guarantees, security in Europe, and future US relations with Russia and Ukraine, Axios reported, citing sources.

It comes amid a fresh attempt by the US to force through a peace between Moscow and Kyiv after several diplomatic overtures faltered in recent months.

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Mr Trumps special envoy, Steve Witkoff, is said to have discussed the plan with Russian envoy Kirill Dmitriev and Volodymyr Zelenskys security adviser Rustem Umerov, according to officials from Washington and Kyiv.

Donald Trump is renewing his push to end the war with a plan inspired by his Gaza ceasefire agreement, according to reports (AP)

The proposal is reportedly inspired by Mr Trumps plan for the Gaza ceasefire, which came into effect in October. While the plan succeeded in ending the war, it has not ended violence in the enclave and both Hamas and Israel have accused the other of breaching the agreement.

The White House said it has also begun to brief European officials on the proposal, which will be discussed in high-level meetings this week, as EU countries suffer repeated territorial breaches by drones during Russian air attacks on Ukraine.

In a renewed push to end the war in Ukraine, Washington has also sent two top US Army officials for a rare wartime visit to Kyiv, according to Politico.

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Army secretary Dan Driscoll and army chief of staff General Randy George arrived on an unannounced trip for talks with Ukraines leaders in an attempt to revive stalled peace talks with Russia, it was reported on Wednesday.

The pair are due to meet Mr Zelensky, senior commanders and lawmakers, the outlet reported, citing people familiar with the plans.

Mr Driscoll is also expected to meet Russian officials at a later date, the Wall Street Journal reported separately.

The meeting between the Russian and American leaders failed to bring about a breakthrough in ending the conflict (AFP/Getty)

The White House has reportedly turned to Mr Driscoll and other senior commanders in the hope that Moscow might respond better to military intermediaries following earlier failed efforts with political officials.

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Recently, Russias foreign minister Sergei Lavrov stated his readiness to meet US secretary of state Marco Rubio to discuss mending bilateral ties, following reports that he had been sidelined by Putin over his failure to secure a peace summit with Mr Trump.

Mr Lavrov spoke by phone to Mr Rubio on 20 October to discuss the possible summit, but the Financial Times cited a source as suggesting that his conversation with Mr Rubio had put Washington off.

The next day, Mr Trump said that he did not want to hold a meeting that would be a waste of time. He later said he had cancelled the summit because it just didn't feel right.

A Ukrainian firefighter uses a water hose to extinguish a fire at the site of a Russian strike in Kharkiv (AFP via Getty)

A highly anticipated meeting between Mr Trump and Putin in Alaska last August failed to yield a breakthrough in achieving peace.

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The visit to Kyiv comes as Russian forces make gradual advances along parts of the front line and step up missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian cities and energy infrastructure. Meanwhile, Kyivs Western allies are looking for new ways to sustain weapons and ammunition supplies.

Russia last night launched a huge air attack on Ukraine, firing 518 drones and missiles at targets across Ukraine, including the countrys west, and killing at least nine people while injuring dozens, Mr Zelensky said. Many people could be trapped under the rubble, he added.
Nvidia (NVDA) shares are inching down on Monday after regulatory filings confirmed billionaire Peter Thiels namesake fund sold its entire stake in the chipmaker in the third quarter of 2025.

The news arrives only days after Japanese multinational conglomerate SoftBank (SFTBY) said it has unloaded its position in artificial intelligence (AI) darling for about $5.8 billion.

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Nvidia stock has been under pressure amid a broader selloff in AI-driven names in November. At the time of writing, its down more than 10% versus its recent high.

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Why Is Thiels Exit Meaningful for Nvidia Stock?

Thiels exit from NVDA shares adds fuel to growing caution around the semiconductor behemoth.

Together with a similar announcement from SoftBank last week, it suggests high-profile investors are reassessing the firms lofty valuation amid AI bubble concerns and macroeconomic uncertainty.

Moreover, the venture capitalist is widely followed by both institutional and retail investors. His decision to sell could, therefore, trigger a ripple effect, prompting others to follow suit.

This could compound the downward pressure on Nvidia stock moving forward. All in all, the dual exits reinforce that smart money is starting to see limited upside in the AI chips specialist heading into 2026.

BofA Sees Massive Upside in NVDA Shares

Bank of Americas senior analyst Vivek Arya does not agree with Thiels cautious view on Nvidia, though.

In a research note this morning, Arya argued that NVDAs transformation from a PC graphics chip vendor into an AI and high-performance compute (HPC) enabler is actually underappreciated at present.

The BofA analyst maintained his Buy rating on NVDA stock, with a $275 price target indicating potential upside of a whopping 50% from here.

According to him, the giants Q3 earnings on Nov. 19 will prove a near-term catalyst, driving its stock price to record levels heading into 2026.

Wall Street Agrees with BofA on Nvidia

Other Wall Street analysts also agree with Aryas constructive view on Nvidia shares for the next 12 months.

The consensus rating on NVDA stock remains at Strong Buy with the mean target of about $236 indicating potential upside of roughly 28% from current levels.
The US inked a raft of deals with Saudi Arabia following talks between the countries leaders, deepening a partnership at the core of a revamped Middle East security order.

The agreements included the sale of F-35s, a civil nuclear deal, and cooperation on AI technology and critical minerals. Washington also designated Saudi Arabia a major non-NATO ally, while Riyadh pledged to invest $1 trillion in the US.

The visit was not without controversy: President Donald Trump contradicted his own intelligence agencies in saying the Saudi crown prince had no knowledge of the 2018 killing of a Saudi journalist, a murder that once threatened a rupture in bilateral ties. Instead, Congress has largely mimicked the presidents embrace of Saudi.
The Trump administration announced Tuesday certain Education Department programs, and billions of dollars used to fund them, would be shuffled to other government agencies, in a move that experts say is an unnerving escalation of a war on public education.

The Trump Administration is taking bold action to break up the federal education bureaucracy and return education to the states, Secretary of Education Linda McMahon said in a statement.

Politics: Trump Pitches Moving Special Education Program From One Shrinking Agency To Another

Cutting through layers of red tape in Washington is one essential piece of our final mission  Together, we will refocus education on students, families, and schools  ensuring federal taxpayer spending is supporting a world-class education system.

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The Department of Educations website lists six new agreements with other federal government agencies that will begin administering functions that include workforce development programs, international students and funding for low-income schools.

McMahon framed the six agreements with the Department of Labor, the Department of Health and Human Services and the Department of State as a win for students and families who rely on federal education programs. Experts, however, warn the changes will likely be anything but.

Its all a show and its a part of this attack on public education, Jon Valant, an education policy expert at the Brookings Institution, told HuffPost.

Politics: Gavin Newsom Trolls Trump With AI Piggy Pics After President Insults Reporter

They found this absurd roundabout way of superficially moving a lot of the departments responsibilities, Valant said. The net effect of that is going to be waste, inefficiency, mistakes, and a lot of frustrated people.

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Its unclear when and how the changes will take place, and if any experienced Education Department workers will be moved to other agencies.

The Education Department did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

I think they are going at the department in pieces and phases, and this is just one, Valant said.

Politics: The Latest Government Layoffs Put Kids Everywhere At Risk

Eliminating the Department of Education has been a goal for the Republican Party since the agency was first established in 1980. On the campaign trail last year, Donald Trump repeatedly promised to shutter the agency; once he was back in the White House, he signed an executive order aiming to do just that.

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Trump cant actually shut down the Education Department himself  hed need Congress to act. But he has found different ways to strip the department of responsibility, including subjecting it to massive layoffs.

Before Trump began his second term, the Department of Education had nearly 4,000 employees and a budget of $80 billion. Now, nearly half its staff has been laid off and the Trump administration has proposed cutting $12 billion from its budget.

Despite conservative insistence that the agency was responsible for indoctrinating children with liberal ideology, the department mostly handles funding for low-income schools, grants to rural schools and investigations into students civil rights complaints.

Politics: Document Threatens Immigrant Children With 'Prolonged' Detention

The largest program thats moving is Title I, which provides funding for low-income schools in all 50 states. It is set to be housed under the Department of Labor.

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Moving Title I and moving its oversight to Labor implies that schools exist solely as a workforce preparation and they dont, Valant said. Its an important part of K-12 schooling but we need schools to prepare students in society and democracy too.

The programs budget was $18.6 billion in fiscal year 2023, which is greater than the Department of Labors entire budget of about $14.6 billion.

The size and scale of what theyre able to handle is quite different, Jared Bass, the senior vice president of education at the Center for American Progress, told HuffPost. This is like Texas going to the state of Delaware and saying, Can you run all my programs for me?

Politics: Mike Johnson Dances Around Trump's Call To Execute Democrats

Advocates are concerned that workers at other agencies may not know the ins and outs of administering a large critical education program. If they just hand [Title I] over to current Labor staff, theyll have no idea how it works, Valant said.

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Shuffling programs to other departments will introduce more complexity for educators, who may suddenly have to navigate a web of different agencies.

What about if theres an emergency like a natural disaster or another pandemic? Bass said. Instead of one agency for relief funding, now I have six that I have to go to.

The Education Department has said that appropriated funding would continue to flow to states, but advocates are concerned that important matters may fall through the cracks as part of the transition.

Theres a cynical part of me that worries that if theres severe understaffing or lack of oversight, there may not be many people concerned if we see that funds are being used, Valant said. They may find that to be a desirable outcome.

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And although a future administration could undo these changes, Bass is worried about the damage even temporary changes could do.

Im worried about the permanence of the damage to these programs, he said. These are real kids, families and students. They shouldnt have to be guinea pigs when it comes to federal education programs.

Political Updates

Read the original on HuffPost
The Senate on Tuesday gave swift approval to legislation that will force the release of investigative files related to the late pedophile Jeffrey Epstein, following a near-unanimous vote in the US House of Representatives and a reversal by Donald Trump and his Republican allies. The administration relented after months of trying to forestall the bipartisan effort involving a scandal that has dogged the president since his return to the White House.

The Senate acted by unanimous consent, which requires approval from each senator but does not require a formal roll call vote, expediting the process. Hours earlier, the House overwhelmingly approved the bill on a 427-1 tally.

The American people have waited long enough. Jeffrey Epsteins victims have waited long enough, Chuck Schumer, the top Senate Democrat, said in a floor speech on Tuesday, before asking the chamber to pass it unanimously. Let the truth come out. Let transparency reign.

Senate approves bill to release Epstein files after near-unanimous House vote

The bill next goes to Trump for his signature. The president indicated on Monday that he would sign the measure.

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Though Trump has for months dismissed the uproar over the governments handling of the Epstein case as a Democrat hoax, he signalled his support for the House bill over the weekend, and said he would sign the measure if it reaches his desk.

Democrats, along with survivors of Epstein and their advocates who were seated in a House gallery, broke into applause after the bill was passed. The sole no vote came from Clay Higgins, a Louisiana Republican who said he worried the measure would make public identifying details of witnesses, potential suspects and others caught up in the investigation.

Read the full story

Trump shrugs off Khashoggi murder during Saudi princes White House visit

Donald Trump has shrugged off the Saudi regimes 2018 murder of the Washington Post columnist Jamal Khashoggi, saying the journalist was extremely controversial and unpopular, dismissing the killing by observing things happen.

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The US president made the remarks at the White House on Tuesday while welcoming Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman for the first time since Khashoggis murder and dismemberment in Istanbul by Saudi state operatives.

Read the full story

Judge rejects racially gerrymandered maps in Texas that gave Republicans extra districts

New maps that added five Republican districts in Texas hit a legal roadblock on Tuesday, with a federal judge saying the state cannot use the 2025 maps because they are probably racially gerrymandered.

The decision is likely to be appealed, given the push for more Republican-friendly congressional maps nationwide and Donald Trumps full-court press on his party to make them. Some states have followed suit, and some Democratic states have retaliated, pushing to add more blue seats to counteract Republicans.

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Trump faces criticism for referring to female Bloomberg reporter as piggy

Donald Trump, who has a history of making extremely personal attacks on female journalists, referred to a Bloomberg News correspondent as a piggy during a clash onboard Air Force One on Friday.

While the remark did not initially get much attention, it picked up some traction on Tuesday and has drawn backlash from fellow journalists, including some who have previously been attacked by Trump themselves.

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Many of US education agencys powers reassigned to other federal departments

Donald Trumps administration has taken new steps toward dismantling the US Department of Education by reassigning many of its responsibilities to other federal agencies.

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The move prompted a fresh wave of criticism, as prominent Democrats accused the administration of slashing resources for schools and students across the US.

Read the full story

Mass federal immigration sweeps expand to North Carolina capital

Federal authorities were conducing operations in Raleigh, North Carolina on Tuesday, local officials said, after a weekend where more than 100 people were arrested in Charlotte.

The Democrat governor of the state, Josh Stein, a critic of the operations, posted on social media that his office was aware of the reports of the impending Raleigh operations. To the people of Raleigh, he wrote, if you see something wrong, record it and report it to local law enforcement. Lets keep each other safe.

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Read the full story

What else happened today:

Catching up? Heres what happened Monday 17 November.
President Donald Trump is amplifying his political targeting of Indiana Republicans who have been resisting calls from the president to move forward with congressional redistricting.

Trump on Tuesday, for a third straight day, vowed to back primary challenges against state Republican lawmakers in the solidly red Midwestern state who didn't support his push to draw new maps in Indiana, which would create another GOP-leaning congressional district.

"A RINO State Senator, Rodric Bray, who doesnt care about keeping the Majority in the House in D.C., is the primary problem. Soon, he will have a Primary Problem, as will any other politician who supports him in this stupidity," Trump warned in a social media post.

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Despite pressure from Trump and his political team, Bray, the Republican leader in the state Senate, announced last week that there wasn't enough support in the chamber to move forward with redistricting. Indiana is the latest battlefield in the high-stakes redistricting showdown pitting Trump and Republicans versus Democrats to shape the 2026 midterm landscape in the fight for the House majority.

Indiana Republicans Reject Trump-backed Redistricting Push

President Donald Trump, seen pointing as he boards Air Force One at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, on Sept. 11, 2025, is targeting Indiana Republican lawmakers who are not supportive of the president's congressional redistricting push.

Republicans currently control seven of Indiana's nine congressional districts, and any new map passed by the GOP supermajority in the legislature would likely shift the state's 1st Congressional District from blue-leaning to a red-leaning seat.

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Trump on Sunday lambasted Bray and another Republican state senator, calling for their ouster.

The president returned to social media a day later, charging, "Because of these two politically correct type gentlemen, and a few others, they could be depriving Republicans of a Majority in the House, A VERY BIG DEAL!"

Ruling By Red State Judge Redistricting Setback For Republicans

Trump is twisting elbows in his attempt to make Indiana the latest Republican-controlled state to change their congressional maps. The president has called state lawmakers and Vice President JD Vance visited the state earlier this autumn to discuss redistricting.

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And Fox News has confirmed that Trump has invited some of the Indiana Republicans who are holding out against redistricting to White House meetings in the coming days. The news was first reported by Politico.

Indiana Gov. Mike Braun speaks during a press conference at the Gary Chicago International Airport in Gary, Indiana, on Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025. He has called a special session to redraw the state's congressional map.

Trump, in his Sunday post, also took a jab at Republican Gov. Mike Braun of Indiana, arguing that the governor "perhaps, is not working the way he should to get the necessary Votes."

Braun on Monday wrote on social media that "I just had a great call with President Trump! I told him I remain committed to standing with him on the critical issue of passing fair maps in Indiana to ensure the MAGA agenda is successful in Congress."

And the governor claimed that "the Indiana State Senate is hiding behind closed doors and refusing to even bring redistricting to a vote. Hoosiers deserve to know where their legislators stand and expect them to show up for work, not walk out and hide in the dark."

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Trump on Tuesday called Braun "a good man," but warned he "must produce on this, or he will be the only Governor, Republican or Democrat, who didnt."

Newsom Takes Victory Lap After Landslide Redistricting Victory In California

The push by the president in Indiana is part of a broad effort by Trump's political team and the GOP to pad the party's razor-thin House majority to keep control of the chamber in next year's midterms, when the party in power traditionally faces political headwinds and loses seats.

Trump is aiming to prevent what happened during his first term in the White House when Democrats reclaimed the House majority in the 2018 midterm elections.

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Texas, Missouri, North Carolina, and Ohio have drawn new maps as part of the president's push. And Florida and Kansas are also mulling redrawing their maps.

"We must keep the Majority at all costs," Trump wrote Monday.

But on Tuesday, a three-judge federal panel delivered a blow to Trump and Republicans, by ruling that the state can't use the newly drawn map in next year's elections. Texas Republicans say they'll appeal the ruling to the Supreme Court.

Meanwhile, Democrats are fighting back.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom speaks during an election night press conference at a California Democratic Party office Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025, in Sacramento, California.

California voters two weeks ago overwhelmingly passed Proposition 50, a ballot initiative which will temporarily sidetrack the left-leaning state's nonpartisan redistricting commission and return the power to draw the congressional maps to the Democrat-dominated legislature.

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That is expected to result in five more Democratic-leaning congressional districts in California, which would counter the passage earlier this year in Texas of a new map that aims to create up to five right-leaning House seats.

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Illinois and Maryland, two blue states, and Virginia, where Democrats control the legislature, are also taking steps or seriously considering redistricting.

And in a blow to Republicans, a Utah district judge last week rejected a congressional district map drawn up by the state's GOP-dominated legislature and instead approved an alternate that will create a Democratic-leaning district ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.





Original article source: Trump turns up heat on fellow Republicans in push to redraw congressional maps ahead of midterms
The Trump administration, on its back foot following brutal election results and its failed effort to quash a House vote to release the Epstein files, is now planning to go on the attack.

The Democrats are going to come to regret this, said a White House official, granted anonymity to discuss the strategy. Let's start with Stacey Plaskett. You think we're not going to make a scene of this?

Documents released from Epsteins estate showed the nonvoting delegate from the U.S. Virgin Islands texting with Epstein during a congressional hearing in 2019. In those texts, Epstein appeared to try to influence the questions she asked from the dais.

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Her office did not respond to a request for comment, but a staffer told The Washington Post that Plaskett had received texts from Epstein, along with staff, constituents and the public at large, during a hearing. The aide also said Plaskett has made her disgust over Epsteins behavior clear.

The administrations offensive comes amid intense frustration from the president and his top staffers who say a few wayward Republicans worked with Democrats to push a distraction to the forefront. In addition, White House officials fear no amount of disclosure will be enough to satisfy a significant part of their base.

The Senate approved legislation Tuesday forcing the Justice Department to release any remaining files it has on Epstein  acting hours after an overwhelming House vote to send the bill to the desk of President Donald Trump, who spent months trying to kill it.

The plan to attack  a well-worn tactic for the president  will test whether Trump still has the political muscle to cow people into submission and make those who challenge him pay a political price. It comes as questions swirl over whether the president has lost his iron grip on the GOP and is entering his lame duck period.

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President Trump has nothing to hide, but the Democrats should be very scared because they have secrets to hide, said a second White House official, granted anonymity to discuss internal thinking. Democrats are already trying their best to ignore one of their own members  Stacey Plaskett  texting with Epstein in 2019 during an Oversight hearing. These are the types of examples the [administration] will continue highlighting because it exposes the Democrats absolute hypocrisy on the issue.

Trump has already instructed the Department of Justice to investigate links between Epstein and notable Democrats, including former President Bill Clinton, former Harvard President Larry Summers and Democratic megadonor Reid Hoffman.

All these guys were friends of his, Trump said Tuesday in the Oval Office. What Epstein is, is a Democrat hoax to try to get me not to be able to talk about the $21 trillion [in investments] that I talked about today.

Summers announced Monday that he would step back from public life after emails revealed that the former Treasury secretary under President Bill Clinton and top adviser to President Barack Obama repeatedly sought advice from Epstein on romantically pursuing a woman he referred to as his mentee.

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Hoffman and Clinton were mentioned in the Epstein documents released by the House Oversight Committee. Summers, Clinton and Hoffman have not been charged with any crimes related to Epsteins trafficking of underage girls. All three have denied wrongdoing. Hoffman on X called for the release of all the Epstein files.

The trove of materials handed over by Epsteins estate to congressional investigators and released to the public last week also included a 2018 email Epstein wrote claiming Trump knew about the girls, apparently referring to the underage girls Epstein was accused of trafficking.

Trump has denied wrongdoing in relation to the Epstein allegations, and no evidence has suggested that Trump took part in Epsteins crimes. The president also has said he and Epstein had a falling out years ago.

White House officials insist they've been transparent and that Republicans have played into Democrats hands, by focusing on Epstein.

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Democrats only started talking about the Epstein files once they thought they could use it to score political points against President Trump, the second official said. That will prove to be a mistake for them.

The White House has called attention to $32,000 in donations Epstein made to the Democratic National Committee decades ago, which were never returned.

Democrats and the media just fell into the same trap they set up, said a third White House official, granted anonymity to discuss the strategy. They knew full well their own people conspired with Epstein, and now the chickens are coming home to roost.

A spokesperson for the DNC, after the Senate approved the bill, said, "despite Donald Trumps best efforts to stonewall the pursuit of justice for the victims of Epsteins horrific crimes, we are one step closer to achieving the transparency and accountability that the American people deserve."

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"Does Trumps newest strategy finally include sharing what wonderful secret he kept with Jeffrey Epstein, the spokesperson added, referring to a letter Trump purportedly sent to Epstein.

Trump has repeatedly denied writing the letter and sued the Wall Street Journal, which was first to report on the letter, for defamation.
WASHINGTON  President Donald Trump will not attend former Republican Vice President Dick Cheney's funeral  and wasn't asked to speak at the service.

A senior White House official said that the president would not attend the funeral and was not aware of anyone else on his staff going to the invitation-only service that will be held in Washington, DC, on Nov. 20 at the National Cathedral.

The White House previously said that Trump was "aware" of the vice president's passing and lowered flags to half-staff.

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Two former presidents are known to be attending the service: George W. Bush, who served two terms in office with Cheney as his VP, and Joe Biden, who served as vice president for eight years before he won his own bid for the White House.

A screen shows an image of former Vice President Dick Cheney, ahead of his funeral service at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Nov. 20, 2025. Former Vice President Kamala Harris (R) attends the funeral service for former US Vice President Dick Cheney at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on Nov. 20, 2025. Dr. Anthony Fauci (center-L), former director of the National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases and TV show Host Rachel Maaddow (center-R) attend the funeral service for former Vice President Dick Cheney at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on Nov. 20, 2025. Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations John Bolton arrives for the funeral service of former Vice President Dick Cheney at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on Nov. 20, 2025. U.S. Army Gen. (ret.) Mark Milley and his wife Hollyanne Milley arrive for the funeral service of former Vice President Dick Cheney at the National Cathedral in Washington, DC, on Nov. 20, 2025. Scooter Libby, former Chief of Staff to Vice President Dick Cheney, arrives for Cheney's funeral service at the National Cathedral on Nov. 20, 2025 in Washington, DC. Former Vice President Mike Pence attends an interview with journalist Jeff Zeleny ahead of a funeral service for former Vice President Dick Cheney, at Washington National Cathedral, in Washington, D.C., U.S., Nov. 20, 2025. Mourners gather to honor former Vice President Dick Cheney. See scenes from the funeral 1 of 7 A screen shows an image of former Vice President Dick Cheney, ahead of his funeral service at Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C., Nov. 20, 2025.

Bush is slated to speak at the service. It was not clear if any other former presidents would attend. Former President Bill Clinton will not attend due to what a spokesperson described as an unavoidable scheduling conflict. The person said Clinton is keeping the Cheney family in his prayers.

A spokesperson for Barack Obama did not respond to a request for comment.

Trump's decision not to attend was not exactly a surprise. The Cheney family has an acrimonious relationship with the two-term Republican president and actively supported his Democratic opponent in the last presidential election. The former vice president endorsed Democratic nominee Kamala Harris, and his daughter, Liz, campaigned alongside her in the general election.

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"He tried to steal the last election using lies and violence to keep himself in power after the voters had rejected him," Dick Cheney said at the time. "He can never be trusted with power again. As citizens, we each have a duty to put country above partisanship to defend our Constitution."

(2nd Row) Vice President Mike Pence, Karen Pence, former Vice President Dan Quayle, Marilyn Quayle, former Vice President Dick Cheney, Lynne Chaney, former Vice President Joe Biden, Jill Biden, former Vice President Al Gore, (1st Row) President Donald Trump, first lady Melania Trump, former President Barack Obama, Michelle Obama, former President Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton, former Jimmy Carter and Rosalynn Carter attend the state funeral for former President George H.W. Bush at the National Cathedral December 05, 2018 in Washington, DC. A WWII combat veteran, Bush served as a member of Congress from Texas, ambassador to the United Nations, director of the CIA, vice president and 41st president of the United States.

Liz Cheney sat on the Jan. 6 committee in Congress and voted to impeach Trump over the 2021 riot at the U.S. Capitol, which she said he incited. The former Wyoming congresswoman later lost her reelection bid to a Trump-backed challenger in the GOP primary.

A spokesperson for Vice President JD Vance did not respond to a request for comment for either.

Vance is slated to participate in a fireside chat hosted by the conservative publication Breitbart News in Washington on Thursday morning before the funeral's start time.

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More: Joe Biden plans to attend Dick Cheney's funeral

He took a swipe at Cheney during a discussion with Robert F. Kennedy Jr. last week after RFK said that Cheney "seemed to be actually running the county" during George W. Bush's administration.

"Not very well, as it turns out," Vance interjected, with a laugh. Kennedy, who's Health and Human Services secretary, responded, "We agree on that."

Cheney died from complications of pneumonia and cardiac and vascular disease on Nov. 3. He was 84.

Contributing: Joey Garrison, Natalie Alund

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump won't attend Dick Cheney's funeral
LONDON (AP)  Britain warned Russia on Wednesday that it was ready to deal with any incursion into its territory after the spy ship Yantar was detected on the edge of U.K. waters north of Scotland.

Defense Secretary John Healey said the Russian vessel had directed lasers at pilots of surveillance aircraft monitoring its activities.

My message to Russia and to Putin is this: We see you. We know what youre doing. And if the Yantar travels south this week, we are ready, Healey said during a speech in London.

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The Russian embassy in a statement accused the British government of being Russophobic and whipping up militaristic hysteria," adding that Moscow has no interest in undermining the U.K.s security.

Healey issued the warning as he made the case for increased defense spending a week before the government releases its new budget. While Prime Minister Keir Starmer has pledged big increases in military spending in the face of threats from Russia, China and Iran, the government is facing tough choices as it eyes tax increases and spending cuts to close a multi-billion-pound shortfall in its finances.

Healey also announced plans to build at least six new munitions factories at sites from Scotland to Wales. The government in June committed 1.5 billion pounds ($2 billion) to build the plants, which it says will create at least 1,000 jobs, drive economic growth and insure that the military has a constant supply of explosives, propellants and pyrotechnics.

British officials said the Yantar is part of the Russian navy, designed to conduct surveillance in peacetime and sabotage during times of war. Because of this, the U.K. and its allies track the ship and work to deter its operations whenever it approaches British territorial waters.

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It is part of a Russian fleet designed to put and hold our undersea infrastructure and those of our allies at risk, Healey said, referencing attacks on pipelines and cables under the Baltic Sea earlier this year.

This isnt the first time the Yantar has probed Britains defenses, Healey said. After a warning last year, the Yantar left U.K. waters for the Mediterranean. When the Russian ship later sailed through the English Channel in January, it was followed by HMS Somerset, a frigate assigned to homeland defense.

Healey said the U.K. must adjust to a new era of hard power. He cited the conflict in the Middle East, troubles between India and Pakistan and Chinese spies targeting democratic institutions in the U.K., as well as the war in Ukraine.

Britain in June pledged to increase defense spending to 5% of gross domestic product by 2035, in line with most other NATO nations. The commitment includes 3.5% of GDP on core defense spending, with another 1.5% on infrastructure projects designed to support the nations defense. The U.K. spent about 2.3% of GDP on defense last year.

This is a new era of threat. It demands a new era for defense, an era of hard power, strong allies and of sure diplomacy, Healey said. And as the threat grows, Britain must step up, and we are.
ROME (AP)  Ukraine has asked the Vatican to formalize its role facilitating negotiations over the return of Ukrainian children and civilians taken by Russia during the nearly four-year war, a Kyiv government official said Wednesday.

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made the request in a letter to Pope Leo XIV ahead of an audience Friday between the pope and a delegation of returned Ukrainian children and civilians. At a briefing Wednesday, the young people described being subject to Russian propaganda and their trauma at being separated from loved ones.

Zelenskyy's letter asked that Leo formalize the informal arrangement launched by Pope Francis in which an Italian cardinal, Matteo Zuppi, had served as a personal papal envoy for humanitarian issues.

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The deputy head of Zelenskyys office, Iryna Vereshchuk, told reporters in Rome that Ukraine wanted the Holy See to act as the middleman, or platform, through which Ukraine and Russia could discuss the return of civilians.

Its one thing when we have their prisoners of war and Russians are interested in returning them. They have our POW, we have theirs. There is an interest in exchange." But Ukraine isn't holding any Russian civilians to exchange, she said.

It is not clear whether any children or civilians have been returned via the Vaticans informal channel.

Vereshchuk said under the Zuppi mission, Russia used a gray zone to not respond to Ukraines lists of civilians it wanted released, because the process was not formalized.

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Once the process is formalized we can have proper communications with the Russians and when we submit a letter through the platform they will have to respond, she said.

Neither the Vatican nor the Russian embassy to the Holy See immediately responded to requests for comment.

ICC warrant for Putin over children abductions

Vereshchuk was accompanying a delegation of Ukrainian children, parents and grandparents who had lived in Russian-controlled or occupied parts of Donetsk or were held by Russian forces elsewhere and now live in Ukrainian-controlled territory.

Ukrainian officials say the country continues to document thousands of cases of children who were unlawfully taken to Russian territory during the war  a practice Kyiv calls one of its most sensitive humanitarian crises.

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The International Criminal Court in 2023 issued an arrest warrant for Russian President Vladimir Putin for war crimes, accusing him of personal responsibility for the abductions of children from Ukraine.

According to current data published by Ukraines Bring Kids Back presidential platform, 19,546 Ukrainian children were officially recorded as deported or forcibly transferred by Russia.

Media reports quoting Ukraines Human Rights Ombudsman Dmytro Lubinets, said that as of March 27, 1,247 children had been successfully returned to Ukraine through diplomatic and humanitarian channels.

Vereshchuk said Ukraine had identified the names of about 2,000 civilians in Russian captivity via the Red Cross. It was not clear whether that number includes children.

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Ukrainian youths and Russian propaganda

The young people in the delegation meeting with Leo on Friday described being subject to Russian propaganda while living in Donesk, in eastern Ukraine, where Ukraine has been battling Russian-backed forces since 2014. Russia already controls most of Donbas  its name for Donetsk and neighboring Luhansk  that Moscow illegally annexed along with two southern regions three years ago.

The young people said they were bullied at school by Russian students and teachers and were forced to learn the Russian national anthem, speak Russian and write support letters for Russian soldiers.

When I said I dont want to write any of these kind of letters, someone argued with me, and I was told that Ukraine doesnt exist anymore, said Veronika Vlasova, who as a 13-year-old was taken to Russian territory and separated from her mother for 14 months. Vlasova, now 16, said she was held in a childrens rehabilitation center in Russian territory without access to her telephone but eventually got out. She now lives in Kyiv.

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Liudmyla Siryk described a months-long search for her grandson, who was injured in Mariupol as a 12-year-old in March 2022, during the opening weeks of the war. The grandson, Oleksandr Radchuk, was separated from his mother, Siryks daughter, and taken to a hospital in Donetsk.

Siryk said she worked for months to secure the necessary papers to bring Radchuk back to Ukrainian territory, and took a four-day bus ride through Baltic countries and Russia to reach Donetsk, where they were reunited at a hospital.

Ive never been traveling in my life, she said.

Radchuk, now 15, believes his mother is held in Russian captivity.

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___

Novikov contributed from Kyiv, Ukraine.

___

Associated Press religion coverage receives support through the APs collaboration with The Conversation US, with funding from Lilly Endowment Inc. The AP is solely responsible for this content.
A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong was forced to return to SFO.

The airline said it returned to "address a burning rubber smell in the cabin."

A passenger on the flight said he saw smoke billowing from the plane from his window.

A United Airlines flight from San Francisco to Hong Kong made an emergency landing after a burning smell filled the cabin.

A United spokesperson told Business Insider in an email statement that UA 869, a Boeing 777 aircraft carrying 336 passengers and 15 crew, returned to SFO "to address a burning rubber smell in the cabin."

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"The flight taxied to the gate where emergency personnel met the aircraft," the statement said, adding that passengers alighted normally and would be taken to Hong Kong on another aircraft later on Tuesday evening.

According to data from the flight tracking website FlightRadar24, the flight took off from SFO at around 1:15 p.m. local time. It was delayed by more than 90 minutes before it took off.

It returned to SFO after just one hour in the air, per FlightRadar24. The flight duration from San Francisco to Hong Kong is about 15 hours and 30 minutes.

A passenger on the plane, Vincent Goh, told Business Insider that about 30 minutes into the flight, he saw smoke billowing from the aircraft outside his window, and passengers around him were panicking.

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Goh, who works at a Cantonese publishing house, said the crew told passengers that the flight would be returning to SFO because the pilot had smelled smoke, and that the fire department would be notified.

An SFO representative said that the airport did not have any information about the incident and directed Business Insider to United's media relations contact.

Representatives for the San Francisco fire department did not respond to a request for comment from Business Insider.

In February, a Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to Columbia, South Carolina, turned back after its pilot reported smoke in the cabin. It turned back after only 5 minutes in the air.

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In October 2024, a Frontier Airlines flight from San Diego caught fire as it landed in Las Vegas. The cabin crew had detected smoke in the cockpit earlier in the flight.

Read the original article on Business Insider
By Diana Novak Jones

CHICAGO (Reuters) -A U.S. court on Wednesday paused a judges order that restricted when federal immigration agents can use tear gas and other anti-riot weapons on Chicago area residents, journalists and clergy members protesting the Trump administrations immigration crackdown in the city.

The 7th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals granted the governments emergency request to pause the order, which required federal immigration agents to give warnings before deploying tear gas and other weapons. The order had also barred agents from arresting or dispersing journalists and required them to wear body cameras and clear identification.

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The government asked for the pause on November 10, saying the judges order impermissibly micromanaged federal law enforcement in Chicago.

U.S. District Judge Sara Ellis in Chicago issued the order on November 6 after siding with a group of protesters, journalists and clergy members who claimed they were being specifically targeted for violence in violation of their rights to free speech, free assembly and religious freedom under the U.S. Constitution.

After hearing testimony from protest attendees and federal immigration agents, Ellis said that the governments assertions that its agents faced uncontrolled violence were not credible. She cited multiple examples where she said federal agents lied about protesters' conduct.

President Donald Trump, a Republican, has made Chicago a focus of his administration's expanded immigration enforcement and deportation efforts since early September. As part of Operation Midway Blitz, federal agents have used tear gas in residential areas and forcibly subdued protesters while attempting to arrest people suspected of being in the country illegally.

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Trump sent National Guard troops to Chicago in September, but a federal court blocked their deployment on October 16. That ruling is under review by the U.S. Supreme Court.

Ellis order, which was intended to last until the end of the lawsuit, followed a similar temporary restraining order she issued last month.

The U.S. appeals courts ruling pauses Ellis order until the court can more fully review her reasoning.

(Reporting by Diana Novak Jones; Editing by Lisa Shumaker)
Benzinga and Yahoo Finance LLC may earn commission or revenue on some items through the links below.

The Bank of England is sabotaging Britains position as a global financial leader with proposed caps on individual stablecoin holdings, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage says.

This is nothing less than a poison pill for the U.K. financial sector, Farage wrote in a Nov. 11 opinion piece for business news outlet City AM.

The Bank of England on Nov. 10 released a consultation paper proposing a temporary 20,000 ($26,350) cap on individual stablecoin ownership and a 10 million limit for businesses, citing risks to the financial system.

Don't Miss:

According to Farage, however, the stablecoin cap does nothing to protect anyone.

In reality, it keeps the pound tied to outdated hierarchies while the rest of the world races ahead, he said. Britain risks strangling fintech growth before it even starts, handing the digital revolution to New York and Dubai while we sit on the sidelines.

Farage last month told cryptocurrency industry participants at Digital Asset Summit London 2025 that he had convinced Bank of England Governor Andrew Bailey to scrap the floated limits in a prior meeting, positioning himself as the industrys champion.

Whether you like or dislike many of the political positions that Ive taken over the course of the last three decades is frankly irrelevant, he said at the time. When it comes to your industry, when it comes to growth in this industry, then I am your champion, and I do make things happen, and I do make things change, and I will go on doing so.

Trending: Forget Flipping HousesThis Fund Lets You Invest in Home Equity Like Wall Street Does

The Bank of England told Benzinga in October that Farage indeed met with Bailey, as widely reported by several media outlets, but declined to provide any further comment.

In Farages recent missive, he claims glory for the Bank of Englands softened stance on stablecoin reserve holdings. The central bank, in its recent consultation paper, says issuers could hold up to 60% of their reserves in short-term government bonds. The stance marks a shift from 2023, when it said all reserves must be 100% cash, which would have prevented issuers from earning yield.

Farage has made cryptocurrencies and blockchain technology central to his bid to become prime minister in the next elections expected no later than 2029, taking a page from his ally, U.S. President Donald Trump. He has promised that, given the majority, Reform UK would cut the cryptocurrency capital gains tax from 24% to 10% and establish a national Bitcoin reserve.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The U.S. Commerce Department said on Wednesday it has authorized the export of advanced artificial intelligence chips, the equivalent of up to 35,000 NVIDIA Blackwell chips, to two companies in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

The two companies are G42, which is a state-run AI company based in Abu Dhabi, and Humain, which is a Saudi government-backed AI venture.

"Both companies are receiving approvals to purchase the equivalent of up to 35,000 Nvidia Blackwell chips (GB300s)," the Commerce Department said in a statement. A total of 35,000 Blackwell's are worth an estimated $1 billion, but prices vary.

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"The approvals are conditioned on both companies meeting rigorous security and reporting requirements," the Commerce Department said. 

Earlier in the day Humain, a government-backed Saudi AI firm, said it planned to purchase of 600,000 Nvidia AI chips by HUMAIN.

HUMAIN and Elon Musk's xAI plan to jointly develop data centers in Saudi Arabia, including a 500 megawatt facility.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh in Washington; Editing by Chris Reese)
By Courtney Rozen and Sarah N. Lynch

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -President Donald Trump's administration is close to implementing a rule that would end long-standing legal protections for whistleblowers among senior career federal employees, according to documents reviewed by Reuters.

The rule, if finalized, would follow Trump's April proposal to change employment standards for federal workers and build on a series of actions by the administration to minimize dissent across the government.

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Specifically, the documents showed the rule would remove legal protections that prohibit U.S. government agencies from retaliating against employees who accuse them of wrongdoing, such as violating the law or wasting funds.

The Trump administration said in a statement that the employees would not be stripped of protections, although it said the rule would put individual federal agencies in charge of enforcing those protections.

The statement said the administration had made it clear in its April proposal that the employees would not have the law's safeguards, pointing to a footnote in the proposal that cites the protection law. That footnote, however, did not use the word "whistleblower."

The White House staff is preparing a new policy on "accountability" in the civil service, according to a government website, although it did not indicate the content. The rule would become final upon publication in the Federal Register.

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Whistleblowers help to uncover fraud, abuse and misconduct inside government agencies that might otherwise remain hidden from Congress and the public.

The loss of legal protections would make it more risky for individuals to come forward with accusations that can help to improve public safety or government operations, federal employment attorneys and union leaders said.

The U.S. government would be "taking away whistleblower protections from the people who are likely to be best positioned to identify misconduct," said Erik Snyder, a federal employment lawyer at Gilbert Employment Law.

The Trump administration has taken a number of actions to dissuade whistleblowers from accusing federal agencies of wrongdoing.

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In the first weeks of his second term, Trump fired former President Joe Biden's choice to lead the Office of the Special Counsel, a government office that handles whistleblower disclosures from most civilian federal employees. Trump's nominee to replace him, Paul Ingrassia, withdrew from Senate consideration following a report that he described himself as having a "Nazi streak."

Federal workers affected by the new rule would also be easier to fire, according to documents reviewed by Reuters.

The Office of Personnel Management, the government's HR team, earlier this year estimated that the policy would apply to 50,000 positions.

The documents reviewed by Reuters specified that employees determined by the administration to be in "confidential, policy-determining, policy-making, or policy-advocating" jobs in the federal government would lose their whistleblower protections.

(Reporting by Courtney Rozen and Sarah N. Lynch in Washington; Editing by Edmund Klamann)
By Timothy Gardner

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -U.S. lawmakers cautioned against ushering in a nuclear arms race in the Middle East after the United States and Saudi Arabia said they signed an initial agreement on civil nuclear energy cooperation.

U.S. Energy Secretary Chris Wright, Interior Secretary Doug Burgum and Saudi Energy Minister Prince Abdulaziz bin Salman signed an initial civil nuclear cooperation agreement on Tuesday as Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom's de facto ruler, made his first White House visit in more than seven years.

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Talks between the countries on nuclear power cooperation have been going on for years including during the administration of former President Joe Biden. But progress has been difficult because the Saudis have resisted U.S. stipulations that would rule out enriching uranium or reprocessing spent fuel - potential paths to a bomb.

DEMOCRAT CALLS FOR ENHANCED INSPECTIONS

Senator Jeanne Shaheen, the top Democrat on the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said any deal with Saudi Arabia must include enhanced inspections through an agreement known as the Additional Protocol, which boosts the ability of the International Atomic Energy Agency to verify peaceful use of all nuclear material.

It is critical that the U.S. hold Saudi Arabia to the "gold standard" in what is known as a 123 Agreement to ensure Riyadh will not enrich uranium or reprocess plutonium, as the United Arab Emirates agreed in 2009 when it signed a civil nuclear pact with Washington, she said. "We must not fuel a nuclear arms race in the Middle East."

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Concern about proliferation related to nuclear energy rose after the crown prince told CBS in 2018 that "Saudi Arabia does not want to acquire any nuclear bomb, but without a doubt if Iran developed a nuclear bomb, we will follow suit as soon as possible."

Wright told Fox News on Wednesday that uranium enrichment was not in the initial agreement. "It's not about enrichment, it's not about anything related to weapons," Wright said. A day earlier he said the deal has "bilateral safeguard agreements" and a commitment to non-proliferation.

Some lawmakers and non-proliferation experts said the agreement must not expand to allow enrichment and reprocessing. "We cant hand Saudi Arabia the keys to nuclear tech while ignoring its desire for nuclear weapons," said Senator Ed Markey, a Democrat. "Im urging the Trump administration to insist on the gold standard safeguards - enrichment bans and full inspections - before any deal."

Andrea Stricker, a non-proliferation expert and deputy director and research fellow at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, said if the U.S. is lax on safeguards with Saudi Arabia, it will be even more difficult to hammer home with Iran that reconstituting enrichment and reprocessing are off limits.

"Let's hope the 123 extends only to civil nuclear energy and U.S. reactor cooperation," as Wright said on Fox, Stricker said.

(Reporting by Timothy GardnerEditing by Rod Nickel)
Senior Pentagon officials have arrived in Ukraine to "discuss efforts to end the war" with Russia, the US military says.

US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll held talks with Ukrainian Prime Minister Yulia Svyrydenko and was to see President Volodymyr Zelensky later.

Reports had surfaced on Wednesday that the US and Russia had prepared a new proposed framework to end the war, requiring major concessions from Ukraine including giving up territory and dramatically shrinking its military.

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The White House said President Donald Trump had grown "frustrated" with both Russia and Ukraine "for their refusal to commit to a peace agreement" and his team had been working on a "detailed and acceptable" peace plan.

A senior US official confirmed to the BBC that special envoy Steve Witkoff had been "quietly working" on a plan and that he had received input from both the Ukrainians and the Russians "on what terms are acceptable to them to end the war".

"Both sides will have to make concessions, not just Ukraine," the official said.

Details of the draft 28-point plan emerged more than three weeks after Witkoff and his Russian counterpart Kirill Dmitriev are said to have spent three days in meetings in Miami, Florida.

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Moscow has not confirmed or denied that a plan was worked out. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said "contacts" had taken place with the US, but no "consultations or negotiations" were happening.

Citing people familiar with the matter, Axios, the Financial Times and Reuters have reported that the plans call for Kyiv to give up areas of the Donbas in eastern Ukraine that it still controls, to cut significantly the size of its armed forces and to forego many of its weapons.

Zelensky has repeatedly ruled out any territorial concessions to Russia.

Neither EU nor Ukrainian officials are believed to have been involved in drafting the new proposal, sparking fears it could be overwhelmingly favourable to Russia.

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EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas warned that for any plan to work, it would need to have Ukrainians and their European allies on board, and French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said "the Ukrainians do not want any form of capitulation".

After meeting US officials, Ukraine's prime minister did not address the rumoured plan but said their visit provided an "opportunity for representatives of the American administration to assess the situation on the ground and see the consequences of Russian aggression".

On Wednesday Ukrainian officials said at least 26 people had been killed in a Russian missile and drone attack on blocks of flats in Ukraine's western city of Ternopil. Another 22 people were missing at the site, Zelensky said in an update on Thursday.

Zelensky was in Turkey at the time of the Ternopil attack and unconfirmed Ukrainian reports suggested that talks had been planned with Trump's envoy in Ankara but had then been called off.

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Driscoll's team is the most senior military group to travel to Kyiv since Trump took office in January.

He is joined by army chief of staff Gen Randy George, top US army commander in Europe Gen Chris Donahue, and Sergeant Major of the Army Michael Weimer.

There was no mention of the proposed framework when the US army secretary arrived in Kyiv late on Wednesday. Army spokesman Col David Butler said only that Driscoll and his team were there "on behalf of the [Trump] administration on a fact-finding mission to meet Ukrainian officials and discuss efforts to end the war".

A Ukrainian official told CBS, the BBC's US media partner, that talks on the trip would focus on the military situation on the ground - as well as plans for a possible ceasefire.

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The unnamed official said: "Presidents Zelensky and Trump have already agreed to stop the conflict along the existing lines of engagement, and there are agreements on granting security guarantees."

After talks with the US army secretary on Wednesday, Ukrainian Defence Minister Denys Shmyhal posted on X: "We focused on the next steps for implementing the historic defence agreements reached by President Zelensky and President Trump."

Kyiv and its Western allies, including the US, have been calling for an immediate ceasefire along the vast front line but Moscow has ruled that out, repeating demands that Ukraine says amount to its de facto capitulation.

Earlier this month, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov said Moscow's pre-conditions for a peace deal - including ceding territory, tough curbs on the size of Ukraine's military and the country's neutrality - had not changed since President Vladimir Putin laid them out in 2024.

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Meanwhile, a White House official confirmed to the BBC that special envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg would leave his post in January.

He reportedly decided that this would be a natural end to his time in the post, which requires Senate approval beyond 360 days.

Kellogg has been seen as an important advocate for Ukraine in the White House during a time when Trump has often appeared to side with Russia in the conflict.
By Sam Tabahriti

LONDON (Reuters) -The United States, Australia and Britain announced coordinated sanctions on Wednesday against Russia-based web company Media Land, accusing it of supporting ransomware operations.

U.S. Treasury's Office of Foreign Assets Control also designated three members of the Russian company's leadership and three of its sister companies, the Department of Treasury said in a statement.

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"These so-called bulletproof hosting service providers like Media Land provide cybercriminals essential services to aid them in attacking businesses in the United States and in allied countries," said John Hurley, under secretary of the treasury for terrorism and financial intelligence.

Britain said the sanctions exposed "illicit Russian networks enabling cyber attacks around the world" and marked the country's latest crackdown on malicious Russian cybercrime.

The Russian embassy in London did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Britain described Media Land as one of the most significant operators of so-called bulletproof hosting services, which provide infrastructure for ransomware and phishing attacks.

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It announced similar measures to the United States, adding Aeza Group LLC to its Russia sanctions regime and six designations under its cyber regime.

Those include Media Land and another hosting provider, ML.Cloud LLC, along with four individuals accused of involvement in malicious cyber activity.

UK sanctions include asset freezes and director disqualification orders for all targets, with travel bans applied to the four individuals.

Aeza Group also faces restrictions on internet and trust services, which prohibit British businesses from providing technical support or hosting services.

Britain also targeted the person it described as Media Land's ringleader Alexander Volosovik, known online as "Yalishanda", who has been active in the cyber underground since at least 2010 and linked to groups such as Evil Corp, LockBit and Black Basta.

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ML.Cloud is a Media Land sister company whose technical infrastructure is often used in conjunction with Media Land, including in ransomware and DDOS attacks, the U.S. statement said.

Neither Aeza Group nor ML.Cloud immediately responded to a request for comment. It was not immediately possible to reach Media Land or Volosovik.

Australia said it was imposing similar measures to align with its partners, citing the need to disrupt ransomware networks that have hit hospitals, schools and businesses.

(Reporting by Bhargav Acharya in Toronto and Sam Tabahriti in London; Editing by Alison Williams)
The US Patent and Trademark Office (USPTO) has granted a patent to Genprex for the use of its Reqorsa gene therapy in conjunction with programmed death-ligand 1 (PD-L1) antibodies such as Tecentriq (atezolizumab) for cancer treatment.

The protection for this patent will last until 2037.

Genprex has also obtained similar patent protection for the gene therapy used with PD-L1 antibodies in Korea, and is advancing additional applications in Canada, China, Brazil, Europe and Israel.

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If approved, they will also apply to the Phase I/II Acclaim-3 clinical trial.

Acclaim-3 is assessing the companys lead drug candidate Reqorsa combined with Genentechs Tecentriq as maintenance treatment for those with extensive stage small cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC).

The trial is intended for subjects who have received the initial standard of care treatment with Tecentriq and chemotherapy.

Participants will receive Reqorsa and Tecentriq until they experience either progression of the disease or unacceptable toxicity.

The Phase II expansion trial comes after the conclusion of the Phase I dose escalation part of the trial, which indicated that the gene therapy was well-tolerated.

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In the Acclaim-3 study, Phase II subjects are given the same dose of the gene therapy as administered in the Acclaim-1s Phase II portion.

50 subjects are anticipated to be enrolled in the Phase II expansion segment. The primary goal is to assess the 18-week progression-free survival rate from the start date of maintenance treatment involving Reqorsa and Tecentriq in ES-SCLC patients.

Survival outcomes will also be monitored throughout the duration of the study.

An interim analysis is planned after the enrolment and treatment of the 25th subject reaches 18 weeks of follow-up.

Genprex intellectual property and licensing senior vice-president Thomas Gallagher stated: We continue to build protection around our lead drug candidate, Reqorsa, and this new patent provides the necessary technology protection applicable to our Acclaim-3 clinical trial in small cell lung cancer.

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Genprex anticipates completing enrolment for interim analysis in the studys Phase II expansion portion in the initial half of 2026. The Acclaim-3 study benefits from US Food and Drug Administration orphan drug and fast track designations.

"USPTO grants patent to Genprexs Reqorsa gene therapy" was originally created and published by Pharmaceutical Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum on Tuesday ruled out allowing U.S. strikes against cartels on Mexican soil, a day after President Trump said he was willing to do whatever it takes to stop drugs entering the U.S. Meanwhile, Mexican and American diplomats were trying to sort out what may have been an actual U.S. incursion.

On Monday, men arrived in a boat at a beach in northeast Mexico and installed some signs signaling land that the U.S. Department of Defense considered restricted.

Mexico's Foreign Affairs Ministry said late Monday that the country's navy had removed the signs, which appeared to be on Mexican territory. "The origin of the signs and their placement on national territory were unclear," the ministry said in a statement.

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On Tuesday, Sheinbaum said the International Boundary and Water Commission, a binational agency that determines the border between the two countries, was getting involved.

The signs, driven into the sand near where the Rio Grande empties into the Gulf of Mexico, caused a stir when witnesses said men in a boat arrived at the local beach known as Playa Bagdad and erected them.

The signs read in English and Spanish, "Warning: Restricted Area," and went on to explain that it was Department of Defense property and had been declared restricted by "the commander." It said there could be no unauthorized access, photography or drawings of the area.

CBS 4 News Rio Grande Valley posted an image of one of the signs on social media.

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The U.S. Embassy in Mexico shared a comment from the Pentagon Tuesday about the incident, confirming that contractors putting up signs to mark the "National Defense Area III" had placed signs at the mouth of the Rio Grande.

"Changes in water depth and topography altered the perception of the international boundary's location," the statement said. "Government of Mexico personnel removed 6 signs based on their perception of the international boundary's location."

The Pentagon said the contractors would "coordinate with appropriate agencies to avoid confusion in the future."

Mexico had contacted its consulate in Brownsville, Texas, and then the U.S. Embassy in Mexico City. Eventually, it was determined that contractors working for some U.S. government entity had placed the signs, Sheinbaum said.

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"But the river changes its course, it breaks loose and according to the treaty you have to clearly demarcate the national border," Sheinbaum said during her daily press briefing Tuesday.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum speaks during her daily press conference at Palacio Nacional in Mexico City on Nov. 17, 2025. / Credit: YURI CORTEZ/AFP via Getty Images

The area is close to SpaceX Starbase, which sits adjacent to Boca Chica Beach on the Texas side of the Rio Grande.

The facility and launch site for the SpaceX rocket program is under contract with the Department of Defense and NASA, which hopes to send astronauts back to the moon and someday to Mars.

In June, Sheinbaum said the government was looking into contamination from the SpaceX facility after pieces of metal, plastic and rocket pieces were reportedly found on the Mexican side of the border following the explosion of a rocket during a test.

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The area also carries the added sensitivity of Mr. Trump's order to rename the Gulf of Mexico as the Gulf of America, which Mexico has also rejected.

Meanwhile, Sheinbaum on Tuesday again rejected Mr. Trump's offer of military intervention against cartels.

"It's not going to happen," Sheinbaum said.

"He (Trump) has suggested it on various occasions or he has said, 'we offer you a United States military intervention in Mexico, whatever you need to fight the criminal groups,'" she said. "But I have told him on every occasion that we can collaborate, that they can help us with information they have, but that we operate in our territory, that we do not accept any intervention by a foreign government."

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Sheinbaum said she had said this to Mr. Trump and to U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio on previous occasions and that they have understood.

"Would I want strikes in Mexico to stop drugs? OK with me, whatever we have to do to stop drugs," Mr. Trump said Monday, adding that he's "not happy with Mexico."

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Teen's death on cruise ship could lead to criminal case against family member

Trump blasts reporter during crown prince meeting for Saudi ties, Khashoggi and Epstein questions
The Washington Posts editorial board delivered a blistering rebuke to President Donald Trump on Tuesday after he dismissed the 2018 murder of its journalist Jamal Khashoggi with the phrase things happen while hosting Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman at the White House.

Trump, meeting the crown prince for the first time since returning to office, was asked about Khashoggi, the Posts contributing columnist who was assassinated and dismembered with a buzz saw inside the Saudi Consulate in Istanbul.

The president replied: A lot of people didnt like that gentleman that youre talking about Whether you like him or didnt like him, things happen. He also insisted the crown prince knew nothing about it.

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The Post said the presidents remarks amounted to a distortion that dishonor[s] Khashoggis legacy, contrasting Trumps comments with the CIAs long-standing conclusion, made during Trumps first term, that bin Salman ordered the killing.

Khashoggi, who lived in Virginia, had repeatedly criticized the Saudi governments repression and foreign aggression in critiques that, the Post noted, got under Mohammeds skin.

Mohammed, standing beside Trump, called the murder a huge mistake and said Saudi officials have improved our system to be sure that nothing happened like that.

The newspapers editors, however, rejected his remarks as offensive and insufficient, yet somehow better than Trumps response.

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President Donald Trumps performance at the White House Tuesday was something else entirely: weak, crass and of no strategic benefit to America, they wrote.

Trump went further during the presser, praising the crown prince as one of the most respected people in the world and scolding ABC News reporter Mary Bruce after she asked him about Khashoggi. The president labeled the question horrible, insubordinate and just a terrible question, adding that the networks license should be taken away.

The board warned that Trumps posture will embolden authoritarian leaders, signaling that targeting journalists or Americans more broadly may carry little cost.

While acknowledging the messy realities of U.S.-Saudi relations, the editorial insisted an American president should be able to respect Khashoggis legacy without granting Mohammed bin Salman a cost-free welcome.

The post Washington Post Editorial Board Trashes Trumps Distortion of Murdered Columnist Jamal Khashoggis Legacy first appeared on Mediaite.
While failing to see eye to eye is hardly new to Beijing and Tokyo, Sino-Japanese relations have been especially strained this month and are at risk of worsening even further.

The trigger for the downturn was Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's comments to the Japanese parliament on November 7 that the use of force against Taiwan could be perceived as a "survival-threatening situation", which would permit Tokyo to deploy the Japan Self-Defence Forces. She has refused to retract her statement.

The timing of the comments also has much to do with Beijing's fury. Her statement came shortly after Beijing designated October 25 as the day to commemorate Taiwan's liberation from Japanese occupation 80 years ago.

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In addition, Beijing held high-profile events in the preceding months to mark the 80th anniversary of China's victory against Japanese aggression in World War II, capped by a massive military parade on September 3.

The present diplomatic row, therefore, could be seen as the culmination of a complex and arguably unresolved wartime history between the two countries, coupled with recent policy statements and actions by each side that the other views with wariness.

Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met for the first time in person in South Korea on October 31. The present diplomatic row erupted a week after their meeting. Photo: AFP alt=Chinese President Xi Jinping (left) and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi met for the first time in person in South Korea on October 31. The present diplomatic row erupted a week after their meeting. Photo: AFP>

Why did Takaichi's comments infuriate Beijing?

Takaichi's statement indicated that Japan might deploy troops to intervene if Beijing were to use force against Taiwan, marking a departure from the "strategic ambiguity" long espoused by Japan's leaders.

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The Taiwan issue is regarded by Beijing as central to its national interests and one of its non-negotiable red lines.

Beijing sees Taiwan as part of China to be reunited by force if necessary. Most countries, including Japan and the United States, do not recognise Taiwan as an independent state, but Washington is opposed to any attempt to take the self-ruled island by force and is committed to supplying it with weapons.

From Beijing's perspective, recognition of its position on Taiwan is fundamental to any country establishing diplomatic relations with China. It opposes any form of military assistance, military commitment or official exchanges with Taiwan by other nations.

Japanese public opinion on the Taiwan issue is sharply divided. According to a poll released by Kyodo News on Sunday, 48.8 per cent of Japanese respondents supported Takaichi's stance on defending Taiwan, while 44.2 per cent opposed it.

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The survey also indicated that the latest approval rating for the Takaichi cabinet stood at 69.9 per cent.

Takaichi's public statement on Taiwan differed from that of some of her predecessors.

When asked last year about a Taiwan contingency, then-Japanese prime minister Fumio Kishida avoided giving a direct answer, merely stating that a comprehensive assessment would be required and that "it is difficult to generalise"

But in 2021, Shinzo Abe, who had not long left top office, framed a possible Taiwan Strait conflict as being linked to Japan. The idea gained traction in some Japanese quarters, and Abe's comments at the time led to severe protests from Beijing.

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Takaichi is a former close ally of Abe's, having served in several ministerial roles under the late leader.

For years, Beijing has accused Japan's political right wing of glorifying the island nation's wartime history, attempting to amend its pacifist constitution, altering its non-nuclear policy and expanding the country's military capabilities.

Beijing has perceived steps taken in these directions as encouraging a revival of Japanese militarism.

Takaichi has on multiple occasions visited the controversial Yasukuni Shrine, which honours Japanese war dead, including 14 Class A war criminals.

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In addition, Beijing has repeatedly voiced dissatisfaction with Takaichi's contact with Taiwan.

Before landing the prime minister's job, Takaichi met this year with Taiwanese leader William Lai Ching-te and the island's foreign minister, Lin Chia-lung.

Beijing sees Lai as a "diehard Taiwan separatist" and "troublemaker", repeatedly accusing him of "whitewashing Japan's colonial rule" and trying to forge stronger ties with Tokyo.

In addition, Sino-Japanese ties have been troubled by rising nationalism in both countries.

A joint public opinion survey released last year indicated that negative sentiment between Chinese and Japanese citizens was reaching its highest point in two decades, with nearly 90 per cent of respondents holding unfavourable views of their neighbour.

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Last year, two high-profile attacks targeting Japanese citizens took place in China, and this year several Chinese tourists were attacked in Japan.

When Takaichi became prime minister in October, Chinese President Xi Jinping did not send a congratulatory message to the new Japanese leader, breaking with a precedent he had established for Japan's last three prime ministers.

But the two leaders spoke for about 30 minutes on October 31 on the sidelines of the Apec summit in South Korea, during which Xi said conflicts and differences should not define bilateral relations.

However, a day after their meeting, Takaichi met with former Taiwanese politician Lin Hsin-i, prompting criticism from Beijing.

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In light of the tensions, intergovernmental exchanges, people-to-people exchanges as well as economic and trade relations are likely to face challenges.

China's foreign ministry announced on Monday that Premier Li Qiang would not meet with Japanese leaders during this week's Group of 20 summit in South Africa. Beijing cited Takaichi's "provocative" comments.

Beijing has accused Takaichi of "fundamentally undermining the political basis of China-Japan relations".

It lodged solemn protests and warned that Japan's military intervention would be construed as an act of aggression, with Beijing vowing to strike back firmly if Tokyo used military force in the Taiwan Strait.

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The impact is already being felt beyond politics. State media reported that the release of several Japanese films in China would be postponed.

The annual Beijing-Tokyo Forum, scheduled for this month in the Chinese capital, has also been postponed. The forum brings together academics, business representatives, officials and others to engage in dialogue.

On Friday, China's foreign ministry advised its citizens against non-essential travel to Japan in the near term, while the Ministry of Education issued a similar warning for studying abroad.

According to Japan's National Tourism Organisation, about 7.49 million Chinese tourists visited Japan between January and September this year, making China the largest source country of visitors.

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Data from the Japanese embassy in Beijing in 2023 showed that about 110,000 Chinese students were studying in Japan.

Yuyuan Tantian, a social media account under state broadcaster CCTV, said on Saturday that Beijing's strong reaction signalled China's readiness to take further measures, including adding Japanese companies to an "unreliable entity list" or suspending intergovernmental exchanges in economic, diplomatic or military affairs.

Japanese stocks have fallen sharply this week, particularly several that are related to tourism. Observers have attributed this performance to the dual impact of declining US technology stocks and Sino-Japanese tensions.

Chinese media cited estimates from Nomura Research Institute, a Tokyo-based consultancy, suggesting Beijing's boycott of travel to Japan could cost Japan's economy about 2.2 trillion yen (US$14.2 billion) annually, reducing the country's GDP by 0.36 per cent.

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There are also concerns in Japan that China could tighten the supply of rare earths - a powerful tool for Beijing in the trade war with Washington - and suspend seafood imports from the country.

It remains to be seen whether the frequency of routine patrols by China's coastguard near disputed islands between China and Japan will increase owing to the latest tensions.

On Sunday, a Chinese coastguard vessel formation passed through the waters of the East China Sea surrounding the Diaoyu Islands, which Japan calls the Senkaku Islands.

The Chinese navy is also being closely watched for possible moves.

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Last Tuesday, three Chinese naval vessels, including an advanced Type 055 destroyer, transited through Japanese waters.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2025 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2025. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Republicans generally supportive of President Donald Trumps goal of dismantling the Education Department still have their doubts about key parts of his plans for the agency, with one GOP lawmaker vowing to stop the effort.

The Trump administration announced Tuesday it would work to shutter the department by transferring critical responsibilities to other federal agencies. The plan revolves around a series of agreements that spread responsibility for administering tens of billions of dollars in school-related spending across the federal government.

Its a move that some congressional Republicans, school leaders and industry experts warn will be a major challenge not only to implement, but to also prove the administration's approach will deliver efficient and lasting changes to the U.S. education system without creating a more complex web of bureaucracy.

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There might be some reorganizational things that make sense, if it allows for the department, the functions, to be carried out more efficiently, if they align better with the missions of other departments, Rep. Kevin Kiley (R-Calif.) said. But there's a lot of really important things that the Department of Education does, and we need to make sure that it's able to continue to do them, those services that need to be provided to taxpayers like charter school grants and kids with special needs.

Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-Pa.) went even further, saying in a statement he has seen exactly how essential these programs are and pledged to protect them.

Altering them without transparency or congressional oversight would pose real risks to the very students they were created to protect, he said. I will not allow it  and I urge all of my colleagues to stand with me.

The move could make good on the presidents often-touted promise to completely shutter the Education Department in the future, serving as a test case to Congress that a unified education agency is no longer needed. But a faulty implementation could put tens of billions of dollars and popular, high-profile programs  like those that support students from low-income families  at risk and siphon off support for a key part of the presidents education agenda.

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Its not clear how moving one agencys duties to different parts of government will reduce bureaucracy beyond the deep staffing cuts the administration has already done.

Agency officials were unable to immediately say how many Education Department employees must be detailed to the Labor, State, Health and Human Services and Interior departments to carry out the agreements. The proposal raises new questions about how agencies will process and award federal grants. Implementing the transition could take months.

And the administration must communicate how all of its planned changes will work to the schools and states that rely on tens of billions of dollars for K-12 and higher education programs.

Briefing congressional offices ahead of Tuesdays formal announcement, Education Department official Lindsey Burke described the administrations bid to transfer work to other agencies as a first step, or the engagement of the marriage.

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Now the work begins, she said.

At least one key Republican is fully on board with the administrations approach.

Bottom line, this is about putting students before bureaucracy, House Education and Workforce Chair Tim Walberg (R-Mich.) said in a statement as he praised the Trump administration's moves.

Senate education committee Chair Bill Cassidy (R-La.) did not answer a question about whether he was briefed on the department's decision before the announcement, but said he received assurances the services the agency provides would remain intact.

But theres an open question about how long the planned changes will last.

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Education Secretary Linda McMahon told department employees who spoke with POLITICO Tuesday that its unprecedented agreements were temporary and could be made permanent by Congress when they are proven to work. This point was underscored by a department official who told POLITICO the idea was a "proof of concept strategy to show Congress how this can be done."

But the top House appropriator on education issues had his doubts about the permanence of the Trump administrations moves.

If you're going to completely try to do away with the Department of Education, I'd say yes, theyd need an act of Congress, House Appropriations Labor-HHS-Education Subcommittee Chair Robert Aderholt (R-Ala.) said. Moving them around, I think is a little bit more of a gray area. But I think in order to make it permanent, youd need to have it by law because obviously the next administration could change it.

And litigation from furious Democrats and their allies could slow the transition.

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They have to come to the Congress in order to do it, so we have to fight, Rep. Rosa DeLauro, the top Democrat on the House Appropriations Committee said of the administrations efforts to shutter the agency. Maybe thats going back to court.

Education experts say the administration has to carefully implement its plans and warned its approach could create bureaucratic hurdles rather than eliminate them.

The Departments actions will expand federal involvement, rather than streamline it, Josie Eskow Skinner, a former Education Department attorney for both Republican and Democratic administrations, said in a statement.

States will now have to deal with the potentially conflicting or duplicative demands of multiple federal agencies with no central point of coordination or technical assistance, added Eskow Skinner, who started an education law firm with other former department legal officials since leaving the agency earlier this year.

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Jeanne Allen, CEO of the Center for Education Reform policy organization, said in a statement the transition wont be seamless, and it wont succeed unless the new agencies clearly communicate with states, communities, and parents about their new flexibility  how funds can be better spent, and how to avoid getting snared in fresh compliance traps.

But shifting power closer to communities is the right direction, she said.

The nonpartisan Council of Chief State School Officers said it encouraged the department to meet with state leaders to ensure any transitions happen as seamlessly as possible and congressionally approved funding flows without interruption to support students.

Angelica Infante-Green, Rhode Islands education commissioner and a council board member, was more forceful.

This decision is the latest in a long pattern of sudden, chaotic decisions at the federal level that have created widespread anxiety and confusion locally, undermining the stability our students and educators need to thrive,she said in a statement. Without a transparent timeline or clear details on how continuity of funds, technical assistance, and compliance oversight will be maintained, there is significant doubt that this transition will serve the best interests of children and schools.
Analysts and potential bidders have valued The Telegraph at around 350m - Geoff Pugh for The Telegraph

A poison pill threatens to burden The Telegraph with responsibility for a 500m debt to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) after a takeover bid by an American private equity firm was abandoned.

RedBird Capital Partners on Friday gave up its two-year pursuit of the newspaper, in which it cooperated with IMI, a media vehicle owned by the vice-president of the UAE.

The pairs original bid for The Telegraph in December 2023 involved a complex deal to pay off the overdue debts of the Barclay family, the previous owners, with a new loan mostly from the Gulf state.

Now, the secret terms of that agreement threaten to load the newspaper with unsustainable debts because RedBird and IMI have failed to convert their lending into ownership.

The loan agreement valued The Telegraph at more than 500m, a price that no bidder has been able to match since.

Even RedBird, the junior partner in the original bid with continuing ties to the UAE, was unable to raise the full amount before its plans collapsed on Friday.

It is understood that the secret terms of the loan agreement mean that if it is not recouped in full in an onward sale of The Telegraph, the shortfall could land on the companys balance sheet as additional debt.

Analysts and potential bidders have valued The Telegraph at around 350m, meaning it could face a debt to the UAE of 150m on unknown terms of interest.

The disclosure of the so-called poison pill will increase pressure on ministers to intervene to safeguard the future of The Telegraph. Sir Keir Starmer on Monday insisted he was determined to ensure a quick resolution in the public interest but the Government has refused to explain how it intends to proceed.

The conservative peer Baroness Stowell, who has played a crucial role in parliament defending The Telegraph, said: This poison pill which could jeopardise the Telegraphs future is outrageous.

We need Lisa Nandy to to come to Parliament urgently to explain what the Government is doing to get the sale process out of IMIs control and to safeguard its future without the newspaper being burdened with the failings of money-merchants with no interest in a free press. We also need to know when Government first knew about this dangerous debt-deal.

The poison pill has been identified by sources close to the process as a potential impediment to a sale and secure ownership.

It could mean that bidders offering a market price for The Telegraph would then be hit with a debt that would significantly curb the newspapers ability to invest in growth at a critical moment in the digital revolution.
On a dry, rocky patch of his familys farm in Door County, Wisconsin, Dave Klevesahl grows wildflowers. But he has a vision for how to squeeze more value out of the plot: lease it to a company that wants to build a community solar array.

Unfortunately for Klevesahl, that is unlikely to happen under current state law. In Wisconsin, only utilities are allowed to develop such shared solar installations, which let households and businesses that cant put panels on their own property access renewable energy via subscriptions.

Farmers, solar advocates, and legislators from both parties are trying to remove these restrictions through Senate Bill 559, which would allow the limited development of community solar by entities other than utilities.

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Wisconsin lawmakers considered similar proposals in the 20212022 and 20232024 legislative sessions, with support from trade groups representing real estate agents, farmers, grocers, and retailers. But those bipartisan efforts failed in the face of opposition from the states powerful utilities and labor unions.

Community solar supporters are hoping for a different outcome this legislative session, which ends in March. But while the new bill, introduced Oct. 24, includes changes meant to placate utilities, the companies still firmly oppose it.

I dont really understand why anybody wouldnt want community solar, said Klevesahl, whose wifes family has been farming their land for generations. In addition to leasing his land for an installation, he would like to subscribe to community solar, which typically saves participants money on their energy bills.



Some Wisconsin utilities do offer their own community solar programs. But they are too small to meet the demand for community solar, advocates say.

Utilities push back on shared solar

Around 20 states and Washington, D.C., have community solar programs that allow non-utility ownership of arrays. The majority of those states, including Wisconsins neighbor Illinois, have deregulated energy markets, in which the utilities that distribute electricity do not generate it.

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In states with vertically integrated energy markets, like Wisconsin, utilities serve as regulated monopolies, both generating and distributing power. That means legislation is necessary to specify that other companies are also allowed to generate and sell power from community solar. Some vertically integrated states, including Minnesota, have passed such laws.

But monopoly utilities in those jurisdictions have consistently opposed community solar developed by third parties. Minnesota utility Xcel Energy, for example, supported terminating the states community solar program during an unsuccessful effort by some lawmakers last summer to end it.

The Wisconsin utilities We Energies and Madison Gas and Electric, according to their spokespeople, are concerned that customers who dont subscribe to community solar will end up subsidizing costs for those who do. The utilities argue that because community solar subscribers have lower energy bills, they contribute less money for grid maintenance and construction, meaning that other customers must pay more to make up the difference. Clean-energy advocates, for their part, say this cost shift argument ignores research showing that the systemwide benefits of distributed energy like community solar can outweigh the expense.

The Wisconsin bill would also require utilities to buy power from community solar arrays that dont have enough subscribers.

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This bill is being marketed as a fair solution to advance renewables. Its the opposite, said We Energies spokesperson Brendan Conway. It would force our customers to pay higher electricity costs by having them subsidize developers who want profit from a no-risk solar project. Under this bill, the developers avoid any risk. The costs of their projects will shift to and be paid for by all of our non-subscribing customers.

The power generated by community solar ultimately goes onto the utilitys grid, reducing the amount of electricity the utility needs to provide. But Conway said its not the most efficient way to meet overall demand.

These projects would not be something we would plan for or need, so our customers would be paying for unneeded energy that benefits a very few, he said. Also, these credits are guaranteed by our other customers even if solar costs drop or grid needs change.

Advocates in Wisconsin hope they can address such concerns and convince utilities to support community solar owned by third parties.

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Beata Wierzba, government affairs director of the clean-power advocacy organization Renew Wisconsin, said her group and others had an opportunity to talk with the utilities over the course of several months, trying to negotiate some language they could live with.

There were some exchanges where utilities gave us a dozen things that were problematic for them, and the coalition addressed them by making changes to the draft of the bill, Wierzba said.

The spokespeople for We Energies and Madison Gas and Electric did not respond to questions about such conversations.

A small-scale start

To assuage utilities concerns, the bill allows third-party companies to build community solar only for the next decade. The legislation also sets a statewide cap for community solar of 1.75 gigawatts, with limits for each of the five major investor-owned utilities territories proportionate to each utilitys total number of customers.

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Community solar arrays would be limited to 5 megawatts, with exceptions for rooftops, brownfields, and other industrial sites, where 20 megawatts can be built.

No subscriber would be allowed to buy more than 40% of the output from a single community solar array, and 60% of the subscriptions must be for 40 kilowatts of capacity or less, the bill says. This is meant to prevent one large customer  like a big-box store or factory  from buying the majority of the power and excluding others from taking advantage of the limited community solar capacity.

Customers who subscribe to community solar would still have to pay at least $20 a month to their utility for service. The bill also contains what Wierzba called an off-ramp: After four years, the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin would study how the program is working and submit a report to the legislature, which could pass a new law to address any problems.

The bill is almost like a small pilot project  its not like youre opening the door and letting everyone come in, said Wierzba. You have a limit on how it can function, how many people can sign up.

Broad support for community solar

In Wisconsin, as in other states, developers hoping to build utility-scale solar farms on agricultural land face serious pushback. The Trump administration canceled federal incentives for solar arrays on farms this summer, with U.S. Department of Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins announcing, USDA will no longer fund taxpayer dollars for solar panels on productive farmland.

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But Wisconsin farmers have argued that community solar can actually help keep agricultural land in production by providing an extra source of revenue. The Wisconsin Farm Bureau Federation has yet to weigh in on this years bill, but it supported previously proposed community solar legislation.

The bill calls for state regulators to come up with rules for community solar developers that would likely require dual use  meaning that crops or pollinator habitats are planted under and around the panels or that animals graze on the land. These increasingly common practices are known as agrivoltaics.

The bill would let local zoning bodies  rather than the states Public Service Commission  decide whether to permit a community solar installation.

Utility-scale solar farms, by contrast, are permitted at the state level, which can leave locals feeling like they are not in control of their future, said Matt Hargarten, vice president of government and public affairs for the Coalition for Community Solar Access. This offers an alternative that is really welcome. If a town doesnt want this to be there, it wont be there.

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A 5-megawatt array typically covers 20 to 30 acres of land, whereas utility-scale solar farms are often hundreds of megawatts and span thousands of acres.

You dont need to upgrade the transmission systems with these small solar farms, because a 30-acre solar farm can backfeed into a substation thats already there, noted Klevesahl, a retired electrical engineer. And then youre using the power locally, and its clean power. Bottom line is, I just think its the right thing to do.


Chicago police are investigating a brutal attack on a mother and her children near a Far South Side school.

It happened Monday afternoon near 106th Street and Bensley Avenue.

That's right down the street from Orville T. Bright Elementary.

Video shared tens of thousands of times on Facebook shows the attack.

It shows the 33-year-old woman being punched and eventually falling to the ground, where the assault turns even more violent.

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ABC7 Chicago froze the video because it's too graphic after that point.

SEE ALSO: 2 men stabbed blocks apart in South Loop; 1 attack involved axe, Chicago police say

ABC7 Chicago also blurred the faces of the people involved because they're minors, and no charges have been filed.

Police say the woman and a 9-year-old boy were taken to Trinity Hospital in serious condition.

It's not clear what led up to the attack. CPD said the woman and child had been walking in the area beforehand.

News of the attack is spreading quickly on social media. It led to a big crowd gathering outside the school Tuesday morning, demanding answers and justice.

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"That's crazy. Kids is fighting adults. Where's the parents at? Why aren't they being accountable for it?" Desiray Redding said.

The woman's family was among those at Bright school Tuesday.

They allege the woman's son had been bullied for two years. On Monday, as the woman walked her kids home after school, the teens turned on the mother.

"It's just an outrage. We got to do better as parents, as a community and as a school. And maybe this could have been prevented if school would have helped out more, if the principal would have stepped up," sister Dhawnaca Alexander said.

"Justice still need to be done. Something need to be done to the kids that jumped on them, some type of justice," father Grant Hatter said.

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Some parents at the school didn't want to be identified, but affirmed a group of young people have been bullying the boy and others.

"That's disgusting. I don't have no words for it. My heart was hurting for her," one person said.

After school Tuesday, there was extra security and more adults outside the building.

For their safety, the city is relocating the injured family to another home. Mayor Brandon Johnson addressed the attack later Tuesday.

"Oh wow, it's just awful. Absolutely, just gut-wrenching. It's appalling," Johnson said. "By far, the most difficult video that I've ever watched. The pain and the suffering that that family endured was quite horrific."

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The mayor continued, "That there's accountability, but there's also something very disturbing about children carrying out such a violent act, that there's clearly a need for some intervention there, as well."

City officials and Chicago Public Schools administrators were at the school all day.

"It's horrifying, particularly for the young children to know that they're going to have to live with that trauma for the rest of their lives," 10th Ward Ald. Peter Chico.

"The focal point is support the family and community. We got to make sure things like this don't happen again," Chicago Deputy Mayor of Community Safety Garien Gatewood said.

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Sources said some students will be questioned by police, but investigators are using great sensitivity as those to be questioned are kids.

Meanwhile, CPS says they are working to support the victims of the attack.

And city officials said they are helping the family find another place to live.

No one is in custody, and Area Two detectives are investigating.

CPS said in a statement, "Chicago Public Schools (CPS) prioritizes the safety and well being of our students, staff, and families, and we are committed to building a physically and emotionally safe teaching and learning environment in every school.

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"We are horrified by the attack on this family, and we are working collaboratively with City departments and agencies to provide support to the victims of the attack. CPS is coordinating closely with the Mayor's Office, CPD, CHA, and other City departments to provide additional support to the family.

"School administrators, teachers, and support staff work with students to create an open environment where conflicts and grievances can be addressed. School leaders work with parents and all parties involved to find a resolution, adhering to the Student Code of Conduct (SCC) as they address any confirmed violations. In addition, it is always our goal for all members of our school communities, including staff, students, and parents, to work together proactively to maintain a safe and calm environment at our schools."

Johnson said in a statement, "I was deeply disturbed to see the video of young people attacking a mother and her child on the Far South Side yesterday afternoon. That type of behavior is unacceptable in our city and we must not normalize that type of senseless violence. Leaders from my office have been on the ground all day to coordinate with CPS, CPD, and CHA to respond to this incident. CPD has deployed additional resources to the area to maintain public safety, and we are working with CHA on additional measures to support the family. We have also activated support from community-based organizations that focus on youth services and violence prevention to provide safe passage for students and families at this school. I will continue to monitor this situation closely as I get updates from the ground and as the investigation unfolds. It is critical that we provide the necessary resources to our public education system so that every school community has counselors and mental health professionals. We must redouble our efforts to teach our young people that violence is never an acceptable response. Our students and families should always feel safe on their way to and from school and we must make the critical investments necessary to make that a reality in every part of our city. I'm grateful for the community residents who have rallied to support the family and I am calling for calm as we conduct a full investigation and ensure there is accountability for the attackers and healing for the victims."

The Chicago Teachers Union said in a statement, "We're as saddened as anyone to see parents and students suffer violence. Every family should show up to school knowing they'll be safe, loved, and cared for and every educator and community member should be equipped with the resources to foster a beloved community.

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"What has proven to effectively work to reduce violence in our communities and at schools is exactly what is missing from Bright: safe passage workers, restorative justice coordination, and after-school programming that engages young people and nurtures their interests.

"Our educators alongside community groups have been doing all they can to fill the gap caused by the $1.6 billion dollars in underfunding from the governor and IL General Assembly and to meet the needs of the students even without the budget from the district to do so. It's clear the community needs to be invested in and have more services provided. It shows exactly why the funding for the very community safety initiatives aldermen voted against yesterday are so urgently necessary."

INTERACTIVE SAFETY TRACKER | Track crime and safety in your neighborhood
NORTHERN CHICAGO SUBURBS, IL  Hope your week is going well as we hit the midway point. Let us get you caught up on the latest news from the northern Chicago suburbs from the past few days.

Here is a look at articles that have been getting attention from Patch.com readers:

One of the vehicles in a two-car crash left the roadway, drove into a tree and caught fire, trapping the two occupants, according to police.

Held the weekend before Veterans Day, the event is attended by area residents that served their country in a number of wars and conflicts.

The owners, who are North Shore residents, also run coffee shops in Glencoe, Winnetka and Lake Forest.

Authorities are continuing to search for answers into what led to the drowning death of Anna Schneider, 19, of Sleepy Hollow.

The business is moving into a former Best Buy at Quentin Collection shopping center near Route 12 and Quentin Road in Kildeer.

The St. Charles Business Alliance has learned of events posted to Facebook and shared online that have incorrect info regarding the event.

Two Evanston pastors face misdemeanor charges after they were arrested outside the Broadview ICE facility on Nov. 14.

After hours of emotional appeals from the public and discussion from the board, no definitive decisions were made.

In "Home But Alone No More," the Winnetka landmark's original owner details what it was like to live in the setting of a Christmas classic.













































POLICE REPORTS/BLOTTER

(Shutterstock)

RECENT NORTH SUBURBAN NEWS UPDATE

Woman Trapped In Burning Car Dies | Drowning Classified As Homicide | Pastors Arrested At ICE Protest originally appeared on the Deerfield Patch
A federal court on Tuesday blocked Texas from using its new congressional map that set off a nationwide redistricting battle when it was put in place by state Republicans earlier this year. In a 2-1 ruling, the U.S. district court found that the proposed district lines were unconstitutional because they illegally diluted the voting power of Black and Hispanic Texans.

The public perception of this case is that its about politics. To be sure, politics played a role in drawing the 2025 Map. But it was much more than just politics. Substantial evidence shows that Texas racially gerrymandered the 2025 Map, Judge Jeffrey V. Brown wrote.

The decision is the latest setback for Republicans in their nationwide effort to carve up district lines in red states to increase their chances of keeping their majority in the House of Representatives after next years midterms. Democrats have also gained significant ground recently in their own campaign to counter the GOPs redistricting gains.

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Just a few weeks ago, Republicans held a 9-0 advantage over Democrats in likely congressional seats gained through redistricting. Since then, Democrats have picked up as many as five seats in California, while the GOPs five seats from Texas have been taken out of their tally, at least for now.

The redistricting battle is far from over. Both parties are pushing to convince even more states to redraw their maps and pulling every available string to try to block or reverse the oppositions gains elsewhere in the country.

The final count is bound to change, but the clock is ticking. Filing deadlines for candidates seeking to run for Congress, which serve as de facto deadlines for when district maps must be finalized, are right around the corner in some key states. The outcome could ultimately decide whether Democrats or Republicans control the House of Representatives for the final two years of Donald Trumps presidency.

Heres a rundown of where things stand as of now, and how they might shift in the near future.

Big states, big stakes

Texas is the state that started this entire redistricting battle, so losing the Lone Star States five seats would be a major blow to Republicans chances of holding on to the House. Tuesdays ruling wasnt the final word, though. Texass Republican Gov. Greg Abbott immediately appealed the district courts ruling to the Supreme Court. While its highly unlikely that any final ruling would come from the high court before Texass filing deadline on Dec. 8, the justices could put the lower courts order on hold while the case is under consideration. That would effectively lock in the new, GOP-friendly map for next years midterms.

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Democrats got their biggest redistricting win earlier this month when voters in California overwhelmingly approved a ballot measure to allow the state to implement a new map that could give Democrats five additional House seats. That map is also being challenged by Republicans who have sued to have it blocked on similar grounds that led Texass map to be thrown out.

New maps already in place

California and Texas, the nations two most populous states, are by far the biggest prizes in the redistricting fight. But shifts in smaller states could also add up to make a major difference. So far, only four other states have formally put new maps in place. All of them are red states, but it hasnt been all good news for the GOP.

Ohio is a rare state that was actually obligated to redistrict this year because of its unique laws. A bipartisan commission approved a new map for the state late last month that gives Republicans a strong chance of picking up two more seats in next years midterms. While thats clearly a win for the GOP, its a step short of how much they could have potentially gained. Had the commission failed to agree to a map, the issue would have instead been resolved by the Republican-dominated state legislature, which likely would have carved the state up to give the GOP three extra seats instead of just two.

Republicans in North Carolina moved swiftly last month to impose their own new map, taking just two days to approve district lines. The state already had one of the most extreme gerrymanders in place before this latest round of redistricting, which only allowed room for one additional safe GOP district. Federal judges are currently considering a lawsuit that seeks to block the new map from being used.

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Republicans have also completed redistricting in Missouri, implementing a map that creates one more safe GOP district. Like in other states, the legality of Missouris new map is being challenged in court. Opponents have also mounted an effort to allow voters to have the final say. An organization called People Not Politicians is in the process of gathering signatures in hopes of forcing a statewide vote on the map. It has until Dec. 11 to collect 110,000 signatures. If it meets that deadline, the new district lines would be blocked from being implemented until after the vote is completed.

Democrats have also gained redistricting ground in an unexpected place: the deep red state of Utah. Last week, a state judge ruled that a GOP-approved map violated state anti-gerrymandering laws and ordered the state to use an alternate map. Under the previous district lines, all four of Utahs congressional districts leaned strongly Republican. The new map gives Democrats a solid chance of winning one of those seats.

More states join the fray

Democrats got a welcome surprise late last month when lawmakers in Virginia announced plans to redraw their states district lines, which could give the party two or three extra seats in Congress. After a dominant performance in the state on election night earlier this month, Democrats are in a strong position to turn that plan into a reality early next year.

Florida Republicans are also moving forward with their own redistricting plan. A special committee set up to consider how the states district lines might be redrawn in their favor is scheduled to have its first meeting in early December. No proposed map has been released, but experts have said that it could be possible for the GOP to secure two or three more seats, depending on how the new districts are drawn.

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State laws could complicate their efforts, though. An amendment added to the Florida Constitution in 2010 prohibits lawmakers from drawing districts for partisan gain or in a way that deliberately diminishes the voting power of minorities.

Reluctance and roadblocks

There are a total of 38 states where one of the two parties has full control of the legislature and the governors mansion, which theoretically means there are a lot more opportunities for district lines to be redrawn for partisan advantage. But there has been a surprising amount of resistance to the idea in both blue and red states, with lawmakers in some cases outright refusing to buckle under intense pressure from national leaders.

Republicans in Indiana this week formally rejected a proposal to hold a special legislative session on redistricting, defying calls from Gov. Mike Braun and the White House to pass new GOP-friendly maps. In response, Trump specifically called out the Republican leader of the Indiana Senate in three separate social media posts. GOP lawmakers in Kansas and Nebraska have also pushed back on calls to redistrict, putting Republicans hopes of gaining seats in those states in serious doubt.

A similar dynamic is happening on the Democratic side. In Maryland, Gov. Wes Moore has so far been unable to convince the state Senate to go through with redistricting. Illinois was seen as one of the best opportunities for Democrats to pick up a seat a few months ago, given Gov. JB Pritzkers prominent role in the drama over Texass redistricting saga. But Pritzker has said that his states plans will depend on what happens in Indiana, which could mean that neither state ends up with new maps.

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Unlike in those other states, Democrats problem in New York isnt a lack of enthusiasm. Its a lack of opportunity. Gov. Kathy Hochul has been adamant about installing more favorable district lines, but the states laws make it next to impossible for that to happen before the midterms.

A potential game changer

Whether its brand-new or has been in place for years, every congressional map in every state is drawn to comply with federal law banning racial gerrymandering. Last month, the Supreme Court heard arguments in a case seeking to overturn that ban. If the justices decide to overturn the law, it would theoretically free up states to redraw their maps entirely under completely different rules.

That could have huge implications for control of Congress. One analysis found that ending the ban on racial gerrymandering could net Republicans 19 more seats in the House. Timing is crucial, though. The courts ruling isnt expected until sometime in 2026, which might be too late for states to make changes in time for the midterms.
Looking for a break? Test your knowledge of this week's news from the Yakima Valley.
PVH Corp, the owner of the Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger brands, has announced that its chief financial officer (CFO) Zac Coughlin will leave the business at the end of 2025.

He will remain until year-end and participate in the upcoming third-quarter (Q3) earnings call.

PVH reaffirmed its Q3 and full-year 2025 revenue and non-generally accepted accounting principles earnings guidance.

PVH Corp CEO Stefan Larsson stated: I want to thank Zac for his partnership and contributions over the past several years. He has played an integral role in advancing our PVH+ Plan progress and significantly driving cost efficiencies.

As we continue on our journey to unlock the full potential of Calvin Klein and Tommy Hilfiger, we would like to wish Zac continued success in his next chapter.

Melissa Stone has been appointed as interim CFO as the company begins a global search for Coughlin's successor.

Stone is executive vice-president of global financial planning and analysis and has spent more than two decades at PVH, holding senior finance roles including that of senior vice-president of accounting and assistant corporate controller.

Coughlin previously served as group CFO and chief operating officer at DFS, a subsidiary of LVMH, and as CFO of Converse at Nike, after more than a decade in finance at Ford Motor Company.

Coughlin stated: Im so proud to have had this unique opportunity to be a part of shaping this chapter in PVHs growth journey. I look forward to seeing continued momentum of the PVH+ Plan with the strong team in place under Stefans leadership.

In October 2025, PVH Corp appointed Patricia Gabriel as its new chief supply chain officer and global head of operations.

Gabriel replaced David Savman, who will continue as global brand president for Calvin Klein.

"PVH Corp CFO Zac Coughlin steps down " was originally created and published by Retail Insight Network, a GlobalData owned brand.




Qualcomm (QCOM) said it will open a new engineering center in Saudi Arabia as part of its effort to deploy some 200 megawatts of AI servers to the country's Humain AI.

The company will construct the servers using its recently announced AI200 and AI250 accelerator chips and software.

CEO Cristiano Amon, who attended a White House dinner on Tuesday for Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, said in a statement that the engineering center will "serve as a key technology and ecosystem development hub designed to streamline and accelerate deployment of the most advanced services based on Qualcomm AI solutions for data centers."

Qualcomm is jumping into the AI data center market at a time when it's seeking to further diversify its business segments away from its heavy reliance on smartphone chip sales and licenses. It's also working to extend its reach into the PC space with chips for Windows-based computers, taking on both Intel (INTC) and Advanced Micro Devices (AMD).

Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon delivers a keynote speech at Computex in Taipei, Taiwan, on May 19, 2025. (Reuters/Ann Wang)  REUTERS / Reuters

Qualcomm isn't the only tech firm looking to grow its business in Saudi Arabia.

In May, Nvidia (NVDA) announced it will begin shipping its chips into the country to power some of Humain's services.

AMD and Cisco (CSCO) are also teaming up with Humain to create a joint venture geared toward advancing Humain's AI capabilities.

According to AMD, the first phase of the venture will involve 100 megawatts worth of AMD's Instinct MI450 GPUs and Cisco infrastructure. The companies plan to expand that to 1 gigawatt of AI capabilities by 2030 before expanding to multiple gigawatt systems.

Saudi Arabia's push to get AI chips from US companies hasn't been without controversy, though, as some in Washington believe, China could benefit from the high-powered processors through its close relationship with the kingdom.

The AI industry has been steadily pushing the concept of so-called sovereign AI, or AI systems built in individual countries that they can access and use to develop, train, and roll out their own AI services.

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While some competitors like Chili's and Texas Roadhouse were eventually able to correct course and recover, Ruby Tuesday made a series of bizarre decisions that only amplified how off-pace the brand was. Ruby Tuesday decided to deprioritize menu items like burgers and ribs in favor of lobster. The New York Times even titled its observation, "At Ruby Tuesday, casual dining dons a blazer." If the hope was that a shift to upscale dining with higher prices would bring in wealthier clientele, it was quickly met with disappointment. Through the 2010s, the restaurant chain experienced multiple changes in leadership, the selling off of subsidiaries, and then dozens of locations closed, according to Restaurant Business.

Ruby Tuesday's growth and expansion largely relied on an American population that had the extra income to afford a sit-down restaurant dining experience and the desire to spend their money that way. One could argue that the earnings drop-off in 2006 was the first sign of trouble on that front, confirmed in 2008 when the United States entered the Great Recession. This era saw Americans forced to rearrange their spending habits, with some trading restaurant experiences for effectively marketed fast food dollar menus . It was a shift that also saw the growth of so-called "fast-casual" restaurants like Chipotle and Panera Bread, whose rise in status saw more traditional staples like Ruby Tuesday lose significant market share.

A series of mistakes coupled with the inability to navigate the post-COVID-19 economic climate has forced Ruby Tuesday to shrink its reach, aim lower, and hope for the best, even as things continue to fail to improve. Though many theorize and debate what went wrong for this brand, a large-scale overlook of marketing may be largely to blame for Ruby Tuesday's decline.

Things weren't always this bad. In the early 2000s, Ruby Tuesday was at its peak. The company's stock traded comfortably above $30 per share, and it operated more than 900 locations across the United States. But it was actually around this time that things began to drift off-course. Sales began to decline around 2006. The chain's attempts to regain momentum resulted in a series of moves that failed to generate traction with customers. According to Fortune , Ruby Tuesday agreed to sell itself to NRD Capital Management in 2017. The $146 million acquisition was preceded by more the closing of over 100 locations. The move also made the brand privately owned; despite past stock success, it would never again be a publicly traded business. And still, this was not enough to turn things around for Ruby Tuesday.

It turns out, "goodbye, Ruby Tuesday" isn't just a song lyric. Any remaining loyal customers of the restaurant chain that shares its name with the Rolling Stones classic find themselves saying farewell again and again as locations continue to close, and the struggling brand fails to find its footing . Things are so bad that there reportedly is only one Ruby Tuesday left in the entire state of Connecticut.

Story Continues

In 2020, Ruby Tuesday found itself with no alternative but to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy. Already on the decline, Ruby Tuesday's decision came just ahead of the impending COVID-19 era restrictions that would come to devastate Ruby Tuesday along with the entire dine-in restaurant industry.

How a lack of advertising may be to blame for Ruby Tuesday's decline

Front of a Ruby Tuesday with steps leading up to the restaurant - JHVEPhoto/Shutterstock

The one area of business where Ruby Tuesday is falling behind competitors is in its advertising. Per MediaRadar, the company spent less than $100 million in digital and national TV ads over the past year. MediaRadar also noted the company hadn't advertised any new products since October 2024. As Ruby Tuesday is focused on running a leaner, healthier company, it would at first make sense to stop spending in areas that aren't necessary to the brand's future survival. However, one could argue that if there is any area of spending that might be more important than ever to Ruby Tuesday at the moment, it's the company's ad spending.

According to MediaMax, top businesses desiring visibility and success will devote at least 10% of their revenue to advertising, with larger companies reportedly aiming for at least 13% of their budget. As Sanmit Chatterjee notes in his Emeritus article, "Importance of Advertising for Growing Your Business: The Ultimate Guide," advertising is extremely important for companies operating in a contemporary professional landscape. Chatterjee argued that advertising is a component that is an essential engagement strategy for businesses seeking to engage with their audiences, necessary for showcasing not only products and services, but what's at the heart of their core values.

Ruby Tuesday's ad spending may be low, but the brand has made some strides to get in front of customers. That said, most of its focus seems to be digital, as MediaRadar reports the company bought a digital video ad and has partnered with Google. It might be that the restaurant chain doesn't see the value in offline advertising and believes it can save money through strictly online pursuit of visibility. But as it has yet to catch competitors like Chili's, a more aggressive advertising campaign from Ruby Tuesday may be unavoidable if the brand is to halt its decline.

Chili's is winning the advertising war with Ruby Tuesday

Close up of smartphone with Chili's app opened to Menu option with restaurant logo in the background - T. Schneider/Shutterstock

While some argue that Ruby Tuesday isn't doing enough advertising, the same cannot be said for rival Chili's. As Fortune reports, Chili's spent more than $105 million on advertising campaigns over three years, with much of its time and money drawing customer attention to its 3 for Me value meal. Restaurant Business wrote that the meal deal, which starts at $10.99, comes with an appetizer, entree, and one non-alcoholic beverage. Chili's also made a strong effort to get the word out about the new Big Smasher burger, reportedly designed to be direct competition for McDonald's Big Mac.

The money Chili's invested in extensive advertising has paid off, as the restaurant chain saw a 24% spike in sales and a 16% jump in overall foot traffic during the most recent quarter, per the Fortune article. It is an upward trend that shows Chili's is being rewarded for paying attention to what excites its customers and spending the necessary ad revenue in ways that ensure the word reaches the public about what it's doing, what's new, and what there is to be excited about.

Whether Ruby Tuesday can afford to outspend Chili's at the moment is debatable, as is the company's will to do so. But one thing is for certain: If Ruby Tuesday can't get the word out about its menu items with the same vigor and efficiency as Chili's then it will only continue to lose ground to its biggest chain rivals.

How competitor success impacts Ruby Tuesday

shot of inside of a Texas Roadhouse with sign lit up - Snow Company/Shutterstock

Perhaps making things worse for Ruby Tuesday isn't the big campaign wins that Chili's is currently enjoying, but rather, that the most popular sit-down restaurant in America, Texas Roadhouse, earned its place at the top while allegedly devoting no more than 1% of its overall revenue to its marketing budget, as Market Realist data shows. It's a decision that, at first glance, defies all business logic and hope of success. However, it's not that Texas Roadhouse doesn't market its brand, it's that they've taken a less-than traditional, but no less effective approach.

Instead of focusing on a nationalized advertising strategy in the same way that Ruby Tuesday and Chili's does, Texas Roadhouse instead connects with customers at the local level. This involves community based events and engagement. The company has spent years embedding itself in the surrounding region, ensuring that nearby customers are so comfortable and familiar with the chain, that they need not look to TV or internet to know where to go or why. It's an unusual approach, but it continues to work. It would seem that between Chili's sensible use of advertising spending and Texas Roadhouse's stripped down, but nonetheless efficient approach, Ruby Tuesday's competition has effectively figured out how to capitalize on ways that push their own chains forward while leaving Ruby Tuesday to struggle through its ongoing decline.

What's next for Ruby Tuesday?

Image of cars parked in front of a Ruby Tuesday restaurant - Jd And Kyle Shoot Stock/Getty Images

As of late 2025, Ruby Tuesday continues to endure closures. Since the pandemic, the restaurant chain has closed at least 185 restaurants, per an NPR report. While the entire industry continues to cope in the wake of COVID-19, social media posts suggest that the public isn't too impressed with the brand, citing poor food quality, rude restaurant staff, and inappropriately high prices as reasons they continue to stay away. It's a series of reactions that signal not only how far Ruby Tuesdays has fallen, but also how far removed the brand is from its early days of catering to young and financially struggling college students, and later courting families seeking a casual, yet affordable, dining experience. It signals that despite Ruby Tuesdays efforts, the restaurant guests it seeks have formed enough of a negative opinion that as things stand, these reluctant customers may never come back.

The only realistic way to reverse course may be to step up advertising efforts and try to get Americans to see Ruby Tuesday in a new light. Without any such efforts, many experts believe that it's only a matter of time before Ruby Tuesdays closes its doors permanently.

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The prosecutor's office of Budapest's sixth and seventh districts has pressed charges against a Montenegrin and a Croatian national that had deliberately reversed a stolen car into the shop window of a luxury outlet on Andrassy Avenue and looted goods from the shop.

The 57- and 58-year-old suspects committed the burglary with a third, yet unidentified accomplice, in the early hours of April 15 last year, the Metropolitan Chief Prosecutor's Office said in a statement.



Two of the perpetrators were identified and arrested later on the day of the burglary, while the third one had left in the stolen car and is at large.



The police recovered 76 of the 80 stolen items worth a total 56.5 million forints (EUR 147,000), the statement said, adding that the burglars caused a damage worth a further 10.5 million forints to the shop.



The prosecutor is seeking a prison sentence for the perpetrators as well as their expulsion from Hungary.



The Montenegrin suspect is awaiting extradition due to proceedings for other crimes he committed in his home country, the statement said.



Source: MTI  Hungarys national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.



Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.



XpatLoop believes in empowering readers to form their own views through complete and comprehensive coverage. To facilitate this XpatLoop has a balanced range of news partners, as you can see when you surf around XpatLoop.com

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Lawmakers approved measures to reduce the tax and administrative burdens of small businesses in a vote on Tuesday.

The measures, approved in an expedited procedure with a unanimous vote of 167 for, were part of an agreement signed by the government and the Hungarian Chamber of Industry and Commerce (MKIK) on Monday.



The measures in the agreement included:

gradual increase of VAT exemption thresholds, to HUF 20m in 2026,

HUF 22m in 2027 and HUF 24m in 2028;

a higher expense allowance for flat-rate taxpayers, reaching 45pc in 2026 and 50pc in 2027;

a reduced social contribution base for sole proprietors;

expanded eligibility for the Small Business Tax (KIVA);

tax relief for environmental remediation ahead of brownfield investments;

tax incentives for infrastructure upgrades at energy providers;

modified retail tax brackets;

a six-month deferral of a vehicle fuel excise tax hike;

an increase in the threshold for corporate tax advances from HUF 5m to HUF 20m;

simplified financial reporting rules for microbusinesses;

and special administrative relief for around 80,000 sole proprietors.





Source: MTI  Hungarys national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.



Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.



XpatLoop believes in empowering readers to form their own views through complete and comprehensive coverage. To facilitate this XpatLoop has a balanced range of news partners, as you can see when you surf around XpatLoop.com

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President Tamas Sulyok met Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, the Sultan of Brunei, in his office on Tuesday, and presented to him the Order of Merit of the Republic of Hungary, Grand Cross with the chain and star.

The sultan was received with military honours in Budapest. He then held bilateral and plenary talks with Sulyok at the Sandor Palace.



Sulyok awarded him the Order of Merit at the proposal of Prime Minister Viktor Orban, in recognition of the Sultan's commitment to boosting diplomatic, economic and educational ties between the two countries.



Orban meets Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan of Brunei



Prime Minister Viktor Orban met Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Prime Minister of Brunei, in his office on Tuesday, the press department of the Prime Minister's Office said.



Hassanal Bolkiah made his first official visit to Hungary at the invitation of President Tamas Sulyok.



MTI Stock Photo - for illustrative purposes only



Source: MTI  Hungarys national news agency since 1881. While MTI articles are usually factual, some may contain political bias, and readers should be aware that such content does not reflect the position of XpatLoop, which is neutral and independent.



Since the goal of XpatLoop is to keep readers well briefed, right across the spectrum of opinions, MTI items are shared to ensure readers are aware of all narratives within the local media.



XpatLoop believes in empowering readers to form their own views through complete and comprehensive coverage. To facilitate this XpatLoop has a balanced range of news partners, as you can see when you surf around XpatLoop.com

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Renault Group and Chinas Geely will invest 3.8bn reais ($714m) in Brazil to jointly develop new vehicles.

The plan includes allocating part of the funds to Geelys new zero- and low-emissions technology (GEA) platform. This architecture will serve as foundation for two new models scheduled to enter production in the second half of 2026.

Remaining capital will go towards renovating a current Renault model for 2026 launch and introducing a further new vehicle in 2027.

The investment was announced at Ayrton Senna industrial complex in Sao Jose dos Pinhais, in the southern state of Parana.

Renault Group chief growth officer and Renault brand CEO Fabrice Cambolive said: Today we celebrate the next era of the Geely Holding Group and Renault Group partnership in Brazil. This is not just a traditional joint venture  its a strategic cooperation focused on a high-potential market.

By combining our industrial know-how, strong commercial networks, and advanced electrified platforms, we will create a modern and competitive lineup that accelerates sales growth and extends the global footprint of Renault and Geely.

The move comes shortly after Geely agreed to acquire a 26.4% shareholding in Renault do Brasil.

The deal gives the Chinese brand access to Renaults manufacturing and commercial infrastructure to support its regional expansion.

According to Geely, the collaboration is intended to combine their industrial, technology and commercial capabilities to speed up product development for both brands in Brazil.

The partnership will focus on vehicles using zero- and low-emission drivetrains.

Geely Holding group senior vice president Victor Yang said: We believe that this new type of partnership will bring a new vitality to Brazils automotive industry, zero and low emission ecosystem and regional economic development, and become a model for the global automotive industry in moving towards a green and intelligent future.

Earlier, both the companies have set up several joint projects at global level.

These encompass joint investment in Renault Korea and the creation of Horse Powertrain, a business supplying hybrid and combustion powertrain systems.

"Renault and Geely commit $714m to joint vehicle projects in Brazil" was originally created and published by Just Auto, a GlobalData owned brand.




From Britannica team: Huge move towards A levels-IB phased out - At Britannica International School, we have always believed in providing our students with the most effective pathway to success. Year after year, our students excel in A Levels, a qualification widely regarded as the gold standard by British universities.

Their achievements speak volumes about the depth and rigour of this curriculum, and we are proud to guide them toward the best possible future.



It is now being widely recognised that A Levels give students the opportunity to study subjects in far greater depth than those that study an IB programme. Without the constant pressure.



In our changing times, many IB schools are considering changing their curriculum to move it closer to A Levels, due to the pressure students feel having to study IB and how they are struggling to cope with the points pressure they are under.



The IB requires students, at a crucial stage in their educational journey, as they prepare for careers and university, to spend time studying subjects that they dont really have any interest in, or any desire to study, in order to achieve a points score and a comparison with a massive number of global competitors, reducing their chances of reaching the very best universities.



In contrast, A Levels empower students to dive deep into subjects they are passionate about, fostering mastery and confidence. This focused approach not only enhances academic performance but also aligns perfectly with the expectations of top higher institutions and employers.



As a result, the UK curriculum body has, this week, decided to make some changes due to the lack of interest in IB.



Currently, only 22 UK state schools offer the IB Diploma Programme (IBDP), showing their lack of relevance to modern learners and UK funding for it will end after 202627.



The trend is clear: The UK government says it will redirect funds toward A Level subjects tied to economic growth and academic progress.



Neil McGarry, Principal of Britannica International School states: "Britannica is proud to be the best school in Hungary, delivering the recognised best post 16 qualification. We have always known we are on the right path."



The IB bubble has burst. The future belongs to A Levels  and at Britannica International School, we are committed to ensuring our students stay ahead.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

At Britannica International School we are proud to announce that once again our A Level exam results are the best in Hungary as no other school comes close to this performance.



In Summer of 2025, 37% of the results achieved by our students were the top A* or A grades (compared to the global average of 28%)! This was identical to the previous year and maintains the consistent trend of incredibly high performance in the Britannica sixth form.



Students of our graduated class of 2025 are now attending universities all around the world including UCL - University College London, King's College, Exeter University, University of the Arts London, University of Edinburgh, University of Manchester, University of Toronto, Utrecht University, Bocconi University in Milan, Ecole Ducasse Paris, Texas Tech University, Semmelweis University Budapest.



Click here to virtually visit Britannica International School, Budapest

1121 Budapest, Kakukk ut 1-3.
A man in Washington has become the first human ever infected with the H5N5 bird flu strain, a virus previously seen only in wild and domestic birds. Health authorities are investigating how the dangerous, highly pathogenic strain crossed into humans, and what it means for public safety.
Veteran Bollywood and television actor Himani Shivpuri on Saturday announced that she has tested positive for coronavirus COVID-19. The 59-year-old actor further informed that she is receiving treatment at Holy Spirit hospital in suburban Mumbai on the advice of her doctors
Lava Agni 4 Price In India: Lava Agni 4, which succeeds last years Agni 3, will also offer a glimpse of how the company is advancing its use of AI in its smartphones.
Sajeeb Wazed Joy, son of ousted Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has alleged that Lashkar-e-Taiba is now operating openly in Bangladesh and is linked to recent terror attacks in Delhi.
Key insight: Bank of America is directly connecting increased revenue and decreased cost to AI.



What's at stake: Operational costs and competitive advantage hinge on successful AI integration.



Supporting data: Erica has processed three billion customer interactions, replacing the equivalent of 11,000 staff.

Source: Bullets generated by AI with editorial review

Bank of America's Erica virtual assistant is now doing the work of 11,000 call center reps. This is one way the bank is seeing measurable revenue increases and expense reductions as a result of its deployments of artificial intelligence, Hari Gopalkrishnan, chief technology and information officer, said at an event on Monday.

Bank of America has a $13 billion technology budget, $4 billion of which goes to new projects. The bank's technology priorities are improving customer experience, driving revenue up and taking expenses down, Gopalkrishnan told Lananh Nguyen, U.S. finance editor at Reuters, during the Reuters AI Momentum conference in New York.

His remarks came at a time when many businesses are still waiting to see a payback on AI. An August MIT study found that 95% of companies are failing to get a return on AI investments.

But at Bank of America, "covering the eight different lines of businesses, there's revenue opportunities everywhere," Gopalkrishnan said.

AI is making relationship bankers more productive, for instance.

"Think about how much time and effort people take to prepare for client meetings," Gopalkrishnan said. "How many clients can a given relationship banker cover if you're able to actually automate that process using AI and traditional analytics and traditional automation? You now can have a banker cover 50 clients instead of 15, and that's exactly what we're seeing in the real world."

These bankers use AI-based client meeting preparation tools that let bankers say, "I'm going to meet client X tomorrow. Can you prepare for me everything that the client cares about?" Gopalkrishnan said. "It can bring together structured data, unstructured data, everything I've talked to the client about from a customer relationship management perspective, and that's at my fingertip with insights."

On the expense-cutting side, AI helps the bank understand where it's spending money, he said.

"Every second of handle time in a call center is worth X dollars," Gopalkrishan said. "So if I can automate prediction of why a customer is calling, I can then look at speech to text to figure out what the client call need is, and give the associate an agent to serve them within 30 seconds or one minute. That's 30 seconds of money saved every single call."
Emily Flippen: Earning season continues, but we're diving into more than just the headline numbers. Today on Motley Fool Money, we dive into the narrative driving results for Spotify, Shopify, and Uber. It's Tuesday, November 4. Welcome to Motley Fool Money. I'm your host, Emily Flippen. And today, I'm joined by full analysts Jason Hall and Jeff Santoro to discuss three reformed rulebreakers and what their recent earnings say about how these companies have turned themselves around. Jason, I know Shopify is one of your favorite Rulebreaker stocks. I mean, in my opinion, they've had a few missteps in the past. There are some concerns around its MLM feeling initial expansion, and then that failed push to fulfillment after the pandemic. But the business has done a great job of attracting new merchants and volumes through the successful expansion of its subscription-style solutions. So when you combine what we're seeing today in Shopify's third-quarter earnings with its long-term opportunity, what is standing out to you?

Story Continues

Jason Hall: Alright, Emily, I'm going to take issue with the failed logistics line you just tried to sneak past me. They moved into logistics when the cost of capital was essentially zero, and they got out of it just as quickly when rates skyrocketed and the math no longer worked. But most importantly, they locked up the access to a great fulfillment partner for their merchants. That was the real goal for the long term to give companies an alternative to selling their soul to Amazon fulfillment. Didn't ask me about that. Alright, so I'll back off a little here.

Emily Flippen: No, it's fair.

Jason Hall: Ask about thqar's results within the context of the long-term opportunity. Now, what we're seeing is Shopify's powerful, sticky platform continues to be the gold standard for merchants and global brands who want a do it all platform for commerce. Revenue and gross merchandise volume both increased 32%, while the company continues to spend to grow and maintaining its edge. Both sales and marketing and R&D expenses continue to increase. Good news is they're not growing as quickly as revenue is. That's good. And I think it's something that we want to see continue. But there was some not so good on the cost and expense side of the ledger, cost of revenue, especially costs tied to merchant solutions that continues to increase faster than revenue. That's taking a bite out of gross margin. So even with expenses increasing slower than revenue, that lower gross margin is weighing on earnings growth. Now, management's calling for more of the same next quarter. And also saying that revenue was going to grow at a slower rate than we just saw. That's causing investors to pump the brakes today. Shares are down and trading. But the stock's been on a crazy good run over the past year or so. Now, the bigger question, can Shopify continue growing? I started peeling back the layers a little bit, and it's a little bit nuts. By some measures, you could squint and say it's already bigger than Amazon. Amazon's online stores revenue was about 265 billion over the past four quarters. Shopify's gross merchandise volume. That's the sale total revenue of merchants on its platform. 350 billion. That's bigger. But you've got to add Amazon's third-party sales and other things back in, and that makes its e-commerce business about 450 billion. So it's definitely a stretch to say Shopify has passed Amazon. That's not the point. It's to talk about how much Shopify has grown and stress how gigantic commerce is, and increasingly how more of it is happening online. Shopify is just way ahead of everybody else with the tools to empower more sellers to make the most of that.

Emily Flippen: I understand that. I mean, honestly, it's shocking to me when I go and I purchase products online, how often I'm redirected through Shop Pay, which I guess I have an account for. It's amazing. You probably have an account for it, too, if you're listening to these podcasts. You just might not be aware of it. And that has a lot to do with the scale that you've been talking about. But I mean, Jeff, I don't like to be an AI alarmist here, and, in fact, I think oftentimes I can be overly dismissive, but I mean, I can't help face the fact, the reality that we're living in a world that I think is driven by AI and new partnerships, like PayPal's recent agreement with Open AI, and that could drive structural changes in the way that I think commerce happens, even digital commerce. So, when you think about the future of agentic shopping, is that a threat to Shopify in its payments platform?

Jason Hall: I think it could be. But we have to remember, Shopify signed its own agreement with Open AI about a month before PayPal did. So they're not completely cut out, and they're likely to continue to seek out more deals like this in the future. The obvious risk to Shopify here is if you're on CHATGPT, you're searching for something that is on sale in a Shopify merchants store, but then you pay with PayPal because the buttons there. Now, Shopify loses its cut of that transaction. On the other hand, you could make the argument that if that makes it more frictionless to buy things through ChatGPT, then maybe Shopify ends up doing better in volume, if not on individual purchases. So there is two sides to that coin. Two other quick points, though. There's no evidence yet that people actually want to shop inside ChatGPT. I mean, I think that's an untested theory. People have tried this before, if you remember Pinterest made an effort to get people to buy within the Pinterest app. That didn't work out so well. So I think the jury is still out on whether this will actually shift consumer behavior. And lastly, we're still in the early innings here with agentic shopping generally. I think we're going to see more deals like this with other LLMs, and there's no guarantee that ChatGPT is the long-term winner here. So there's going to be other opportunities for these kinds of partnerships.

Emily Flippen: I think that's a fair point. And I'd add in an addition to Pinterest. I mean, an example being Google and their shop features. I'm sure it gets some level of engagement. They haven't gotten rid of it the way they did their social media arm, but it certainly didn't replace the need for, say, the Shopify of the world. But that being said, there was a time where people would say, there's no future for digital commerce, too, when the Internet came around because people were so afraid to put their credit card information. And now I just get my credit card information to any old website that's asking for it. So the times do change here, so it'll be interesting to see how AI, as well as the total gross merchandise volume, and a large of a platform Shopify has built continues to develop over the course of the next few years, this earnings, in my opinion, was just one step in that direction. Up next, where picking apart Spotify's earnings and where the business could go from here. Stick with us. Welcome.

Emily Flippen: Back to Motley Fool Money. Spotify is in the spotlight today after reporting third-quarter earnings that were, in my opinion, pretty stellar across the board. I mean, Spotify is this classic team Rulebreakers recommendation in the Motley Fool's flagship service of Stock Advisor. Jeff, when we initially recommended it, there is a lot of fair concern about the business, in particular, about its ability to expand their gross margins, given the license structure of the music streaming business. The past few years, Spotify has proven that its value-added services, combined with that renewed focus on profitability, could generate substantial cash flow. It looks like we're seeing that again in their third quarter. I mean, operating profits stood out to me, which are up nearly 30% year over year. When you personally look at these results, what stands out for you as what's next for Spotify as part of this turnaround story?

Jeff Santoro: Well, you guys were right to be concerned about Spotify's margins in the past, but the company has shown really impressive progress. So just real quickly, the gross margin that was reported today for the third quarter that was 31.6%. That's up from 31.1% a year ago and 26.4% two years ago. So you can see the progress they've made over the last couple of years. And you mentioned a minute ago the increase in operating profit. So that all looks great. This signals to me that they're diversifying the revenue streams, they're cutting expenses. And maybe most importantly, they're finally gaining some leverage in negotiations with record labels, right? As they gain scale, they should have a little bit more to bring to the table when they're trying to negotiate those deals. I still have concerns about the turnaround here. If you look into the results from today, revenue growth and average revenue per user are slowing. The growth rate is slowing. Now, they've used price hikes as a solution to this in the past to squeeze out some more revenue from the subscription side of their business. But with deep-pocketed competitors like Apple and Amazon Music, I'm not sure how many more times they can pull that lever to get the growth train back on the tracks.

Emily Flippen: I mean, I am a Spotify apologist here, and I will say, in Spotify's defense, I mean, they were a decade late to the podcast game in comparison to Apple. I mean, Apple had a huge lead, and they really squandered that. I think Spotify built just an incredible platform. And we've seen a lot of that turnaround happen. But I mean, you make good points, Jeff. And Jason. I think about my key concerns with Spotify, one of it has just always been how big this platform can really get. What does the growth in users look like? And it's really hard for me to conceptualize just how large their platform is. As of this quarter, they're boasting over 700 million monthly active users. I mean, that's somewhere around 10% of the total world population. And that's a number that grew double digits this quarter. It's crazy. I mean, can they continue to grow? Is that actually important?

Jason Hall: So I think it's important. But really, I think what Spotify is really focusing on doing is growing all of its users and for two different reasons, but especially premium users by constantly adding more features and things that people are willing to pay up for. If you look behind the numbers, premium subscribers only make up 39% of users, but 90% of revenue and almost certainly the bulk of gross profit, premium subscribers continue to grow faster than total monthly average users. And likely, much of that growth is free users that are converting to get access to features available only to subscribers as they continue to add just more free users to backfill that. Now it's smart because you have the massive audience the publishers want, network effect. And then you get to leverage those features that an increasing share of users will pay up for. That's the monetization issue. The reality is the ad business is not great. It's really just the premium users that are driving the money. Now, as to finding growth, there are some numbers we can put behind that, too. The global podcast market is estimated to be about 600 million users by the end of the year and still growing at a really high rate Music is not to be too punished here. It's universal. There are more than 8 billion people on the Earth. I think Spotify can keep growing. Now, the double-digit rates that we've seen, we're not going to see that in perpetuity, but more importantly, it's at a point where it's unit economics, make every incremental dollar worth more. Revenue was up 7%, operating cash flow was up 16%.

Emily Flippen: I think you hit the nail on the head there, Jason. Speaking as a Spotify user myself, a paying subscriber, I also pay a little extra every month for extra audiobook listening hours. Now, that's not part of their core podcast initiative, but it's these little upsell opportunities that I think really allow Spotify to shine. And it's a monetization potential that, in my opinion, can expand far beyond just the sheer number and user growth. But to your point, there's still a lot of white space out here. They can continue to grow.

Jason Hall: I just updated my settings for lossless audio, and I'm really excited to get better quality audio from the music part of it.

Jason Hall: I'm trying to hold back my excitement there, Spotify had been promising this for a while. We'll see what the feedback is like from users. But there's just such a failure of other options that even if the launch of Lossless Audio goes poorly for Spotify, I don't know that it actually has any financial ramifications for the company.

Jason Hall: Agreed.

Emily Flippen: Coming up next, we're going to be diving into Uber's third quarter and evaluating if its new pricing mechanisms are really working out as planned. Stick with us.

Welcome back to Motley Fool Money. As you wrap up today show, let's discuss one of the most controversial rule brreaker stocks that is also reporting today, and that is Uber. When Uber hit public markets all the way back in 2019, it was considered by many, I think I was one of them, that it was a little bit of a broken IPO, right? It was sporting billions and operating losses. It was only driving adoption through really aggressive promotion pricing. And just in the past few years though Uber has just made dramatic strides toward profitability. Yeah, part of that is managing operating costs, but also just creating more profitable pricing algorithms and raising the fees associated with a lot of their trips. Jason, when I look at this quarter, management said generative AI was actually key to improving productivity. Do you think that's actually what's most important for Uber's long-term success, or is it something else?

Jason Hall: So I think Uber will continue to be smart about managing costs, and AI is one of the ways that they can actually do that from a productivity perspective. I think the one thread that CEO Dara Kaz Rahahi pulled the most throughout his prepared remarks was the willingness to sacrifice cost or expense, not to cut, not to try and control cost or expense, but to sacrifice it. In the near term, if it meant building something stronger in the long term, paraphrase a little bit. He wrote extensively about the shift from focusing on individual drivers for supply to what they describe as a more hybrid future. This is the company that sold off its autonomous vehicle business and is now increasingly seeing more autonomous vehicles start to come on its platform in markets. It was about building a bigger platform. In Europe, for example, it has several large fleet partners that supply drivers instead of just the individual drivers that are such a thing we're familiar in the US. So we've seen delivery become a bigger part of the business, as well, and that's a differentiator for users and drivers both and certainly for the bottom line over time. So I think Dara is focused on building the platform since day one, no matter what users are looking for, and increasingly, no matter who's providing or what is providing the ride or delivery, that's really the key thread. We saw both rides and trips grow at some of the fastest rates since the IPO this quarter two. Here's a big number that boggles the mind. They're estimating that by the end of the year, they will support 14 billion trips this year. You hinted at it before, but do you remember when all the headlines around the IPO were that for every $20 trip, the company had to pay $30 to provide it, Dara has turned this business into a cash cow monster at scale.

Emily Flippen: It's absolutely incredible. And the Uber bulls, back in the day, were saying that they'll eventually get to the point where they've reached critical mass enough where they can start charging more for these trips. And that's largely what we've seen happen. And just to throw another rule breaker stock out there, we have results out from Grab today, and the headlines, in my opinion, were also looking good, but Grab is another Southeast Asia-based mobility business. You can imagine at Uber, but in Southeast Asia. And they're doing the same thing. They're really unprofitable right now, and they're driving a lot of adoption through promotions, but they're building scale that when they reach critical mass, they should theoretically be able to raise prices enough to generate a cash flow machine. But, Jeff, I mean, there's cost, right? As investors, you look at the cash flow and you're like, Wow, billions of dollars in trips, billions of dollars in cash flow. This is amazing. But they have come under fire a bit Uber has for its pricing practices. I mean, they utilize dynamic pricing to potentially incentivize users while also monetizing users who are willing to pay more. They claim not to use any private data or information as part of this process. But the reality is that trips have gotten more expensive. People don't like that. They got some pushback both from regulators and consumers. So is that pricing strategy actually beneficial for the company when you think about its long-term potential?

Jeff Santoro: Long term, I have some concerns. Putting my human being hat on. I'm not a huge fan of the dynamic pricing. Surge pricing is one thing. I get why that works. There's an economic argument for that. There's some potentially discriminating ways this other type of pricing could be done. This is not necessarily a discriminatory example, but if your battery is super low, maybe you're going to pay a little bit more because you're in a rush to get in a car, right? Things like that, I think, rub people the wrong way, even if they can understand the logic behind surge pricing. And with Congress and the FTC already making noise about this, I'd be shocked if at some point this doesn't become a liability. But putting my investor hat back on, it could be a long time before regulation actually forces anything to change here, just with everything going on in Washington right now. So unless there's some really organized pushback by consumers in the short term, Uber is likely going to keep benefiting from these pricing models for the foreseeable future.

Jason Hall: I think the models on Walmart in the past. Come on, guys. They're just the obvious target here. I don't think this is going to go away. I think it's good for customers and for the business. Like it or not? Whether it's surge pricing or just a dynamic bottle that's an extension of that, I think this is not going anywhere.

Jeff Santoro: I think you have to keep an eye on it, though if you're an investor here, it potentially could come under scrutiny at some point. And I don't know. You might like it. I dislike it, Jason. I am a fan of the common person. Apparently, you are not. But I think it's my when I want my right, OK?

Emily Flippen: Yeah, I find myself conflicted about it because on one hand, this is the undeniable reason why Uber is generating as much cash flow as it is, their ability to understand how much they can charge per ride, how much to pass along to their drivers, and how much to keep for themselves and as a result to benefit shareholders. But on the other hand, I have been overly dismissive of consumer pushback in the past. Target is a great example. I did not think the boycotts against Target, even as long-lasting as they've been, would result in such a decrease in foot traffic. There's a lot of factors that go into that, but I don't know. It's hard to dismiss consumers when they really don't like something. It's hard to get people to get back once they've already ridden a company off.

Jason Hall: I think the other problem is, LIF does the same thing, and they're biggest competitor to Uber. So I think the other way you stop this is you get a competitor that does it differently and maybe pull some share from believers.

Emily Flippen: Great point. Jeff, Jason, thank you both so much for joining today. As always, people in the program may have interest in the stocks they talk about in the Motley Fool may have formal recommendations for or against. So don't buy or sell stocks based solely on what you hear. All personal finance content follows MotyFool editorial standards and is not approved by advertisers. Advertisements are sponsored content and provide for informational purposes only. This see our full advertising disclosure, please check out our show notes. For Jason Hall, Jeff Santoro and the entire Motley Fool Money team, I'm Emily Flippen. We'll see you tomorrow.

Emily Flippen, CFA has positions in PayPal, Pinterest, Shopify, and Spotify Technology. Jason Hall has positions in Shopify and has the following options: short January 2026 $175 calls on Shopify and short March 2026 $90 calls on PayPal. Jeff Santoro has positions in Amazon, Apple, PayPal, and Shopify. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Amazon, Apple, PayPal, Pinterest, Shopify, Spotify Technology, Target, Uber Technologies, and Walmart. The Motley Fool recommends Grab and recommends the following options: long January 2027 $42.50 calls on PayPal and short December 2025 $75 calls on PayPal. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

When Rule Breakers Find Religion (or, at Least Profits) was originally published by The Motley Fool
The News

Saudi Arabias state-backed artificial intelligence company HUMAIN has led a $900 million funding round for media production startup Luma AI  with the key commitment that a large part of the Silicon Valley firms data infrastructure will move to the kingdom.

As part of the agreement, HUMAIN will build a 2-gigawatt compute cluster known as Project Halo in Saudi Arabia with Luma AI as primary customer. Amit Jain, the chief executive of the US firm, said the cluster would be the largest of its type in the world.

We need an immense amount of compute and we need to scale our research, Jain said in an interview with Semafor. With this funding, we plan to accelerate our path to building new models and building artificial general intelligence models.

Other investors that joined the latest funding round, which valued the company at more than $4 billion, include AMD and Andreessen Horowitz, people familiar with the deal said.

Know More

Luma AIs deal with HUMAIN is a vote of confidence in the kingdoms strategy to use its abundant land and cheap energy to offer itself as a hub for AI companies looking for somewhere to handle large volumes of data processing  part of a broader Saudi push to drive domestic investment, rather than simply serve as a pool of capital for companies abroad.

The two companies have already agreed to cooperate on HUMAIN Create, which aims to use AI to quickly produce advertising, video games, and film. Luma AI will move more of its resources to Saudi Arabia and develop Arabic-language models as it looks to crack the Middle East market, Jain said.

We think Saudi Arabia is going to be a very productive market for us, and with this partnership, we will unlock that in a very significant way, Jain said.

The agreement was announced during Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salmans visit to the US to meet with President Donald Trump. Prince Mohammed committed Saudi Arabia to investing $1 trillion into the US during that trip, an increase of $400 billion from a previous pledge made just six months earlier.
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By Gianluca Lo Nostro

(Reuters) -Schneider Electric said on Wednesday it had signed new deals worth almost $2.3 billion with two U.S. data centre operators, as surging adoption of artificial intelligence boosts infrastructure demand.

At an industry event in Las Vegas, the French industrial group announced a $1.9 billion partnership with privately held tech firm Switch, covering power modules and cooling systems.

The second agreement, valued at $373 million and involving uninterruptible power supplies and switchgear, was signed with Texas-based Digital Realty.

Schneider, France's biggest energy company by market value, has emerged as a key data centre supplier, making server racks, cooling and power equipment that form the backbone of AI infrastructure.

It is also working with chipmaker Nvidia to design cooling systems for its most powerful AI chips.

Large-scale cloud service providers, also known as hyperscalers, are racing to build AI infrastructure. Amazon, Meta, Google and Microsoft are projected to spend more than $360 billion in 2025, according to company filings.

AI RAMPS UP PRESSURE ON US ENERGY GRID

The deal with Switch is Schneider's largest cooling services agreement for data centres in North America to date. Schneider said the solution it is supplying should help scale AI capacity without proportionally increasing energy demand.

U.S. utilities are struggling to keep pace with Big Tech's power-hungry AI data centres.

Analysts from Morgan Stanley have estimated that global power demand from data centres will nearly triple in the next three years, intensifying the strain on already stretched U.S. power grids.

The data centre business accounts for nearly a quarter of Schneider's total revenue. Financial analysts are expecting it to unveil targets tied to AI development during its capital markets day in London on December 11.

(Reporting by Gianluca Lo Nostro in Gdansk; Editing by Milla Nissi-Prussak)
This story was originally published on Packaging Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Packaging Dive newsletter.

Dive Brief:

Sealed Air has entered a definitive agreement to be acquired by funds affiliated with private equity firm CD&R for an estimated $6.2 billion, based on a price of $42.15 per share in cash. The transaction has an overall enterprise value of $10.3 billion, according to a release.

The deal, which was approved by Sealed Airs board of directors, could close by mid-2026 pending regulatory clearances and shareholder approval. Sealed Air would be delisted from the New York Stock Exchange and become a private company.

The agreement allows Sealed Air to actively solicit additional acquisitions offers during a 30-day period that will expire at the end of Dec. 16.

Dive Insight:

This deal would be the latest in a series of large packaging transactions in recent years as the sector weathers shifting economic factors.

The North Carolina-based company  known for its brand names such as Autobag, Bubble Wrap, Cryovac and Liquibox  employs an estimated 16,400 people servicing customers in multiple countries. The company generated approximately $5.4 billion in sales last year, with a focus on food and protective packaging.

Sealed Air is in the midst of a multiyear turnaround plan, including multiple CEO changes since late 2023, cost reduction efforts and a refocused strategy. It has been affected by shifting trends in e-commerce packaging, cost-pressured consumers, a decline in beef production and other factors. Henry Keizer, chairman of Sealed Airs board of directors, noted in a statement that this decision was the result of a yearlong review of strategic alternatives.

During the companys latest earnings call, CEO Dustin Semach said volumes in the protective segment were starting to see their first positive inflection point since 2021 though sales were still down year over year. Food packaging sales were up year over year, though affected by various economic trends. Sealed Air reported nearly $3.96 billion in net sales through Q3, down 1.5%, and increased its full-year guidance to an upper range of $5.325 billion.

Speculation has been growing about whether the company could sell, or possibly split up into different parts, based on initial reporting by The Wall Street Journal. Analysts from RBC Capital Markets and Truist Securities cited pressure from activist investor Ancora Alternatives, first reported by Semafor, as a possible contributing factor. RBC Equity Analyst Arun Viswanathan noted on Nov. 13 that the food business could be the higher valued of the two and said overall the company had been executing well under stabilized leadership.
By Hannah Lang

(Reuters) -U.S. senators are set on Wednesday to press Michael Selig, President Donald Trump's nominee to lead the Commodity Futures Trading Commission, about his plans to overhaul cryptocurrency regulations and election betting, among other hot-button issues.

Selig is currently chief counsel for the Securities and Exchange Commission's crypto task force and an adviser to Trump's Republican SEC chair Paul Atkins.

Trump courted crypto cash on the campaign trail with promises to be a "crypto president" and his administration has pushed industry-friendly policies, dropped probes into crypto firms, and signed into law a new regulatory framework for stablecoins, a type of cryptocurrency pegged to the U.S. dollar. Trump's family is also building a crypto enterprise.

The CFTC, which oversees commodity derivatives markets, would also take a more active role overseeing the crypto industry if Congress passes a bill, dubbed the CLARITY Act, that includes proposed changes in crypto market supervision.

The White House withdrew its previous nominee for CFTC head, former Republican CFTC commissioner Brian Quintenz, who said in September that influential crypto entrepreneurs Cameron and Tyler Winklevoss urged Trump to stall his nomination. The pair, who donated to Trump's campaign, have not commented on Quintenz's statement.

Selig, in a post on X after his nomination, said he would "help the President make the United States the Crypto Capital of the World."

The CLARITY Act, passed by the House of Representatives in July and now under consideration in the Senate, would clear up a longstanding debate by defining when a cryptocurrency is considered a commodity versus a security. That would give the CFTC the authority to oversee crypto spot markets.

Selig is expected to be questioned about that bill, as well as how the CFTC would work with the SEC and oversee markets that allow Americans to bet on the outcome of elections and other events.

The CFTC is traditionally led by a bipartisan group of five commissioners nominated by the president. The agency currently only has one commissioner, Republican Caroline Pham, who is also serving as its acting chair. Pham has indicated she plans to depart the agency once Trump's nominee for chair is confirmed.

(Reporting by Hannah Lang in New York; Editing by Michelle Price and Edmund Klamann)
(Reuters) -South Korea's antitrust regulator is investigating the Seoul offices of Arm Holdings as part of ongoing scrutiny of the company's licensing practices, a person familiar with the matter told Reuters on Wednesday.

Bloomberg News reported earlier that South Korea's Fair Trade Commission visited Arm's Seoul office, following a complaint from Qualcomm alleging that the British company was restricting access to its technology and harming competition after more than 20 years of operating an open network.

Qualcomm designs chips based on Arm's architecture under a licensing deal, and supplies them to companies including South Korean smartphone maker Samsung Electronics.

Arm and Qualcomm did not immediately respond to Reuters requests for a comment. The FTC declined to comment.

The two companies are embroiled in a separate legal dispute in the U.S. after Arm sued Qualcomm in 2022 for allegedly failing to negotiate a new licensing deal after it acquired Nuvia, a CPU design startup. Qualcomm secured a key win in the U.S. federal court in Delaware last year.

(Reporting by Hyunjoo Jin and Joyce Lee in Seoul, Dheeraj Kumar in Bengaluru; Editing by Sherry Jacob-Phillips, Tom Hogue and Kate Mayberry)
SEOUL (Reuters) -South Korea will prepare incentives for long-term stock investors, while making efforts toward foreign exchange stability, the finance minister said on Wednesday.

"We plan to introduce incentive measures for small investors, who stay in capital markets for a long time or invest in certain stocks in the long term," Minister Koo Yun-cheol said at a meeting with reporters.

On the foreign exchange market, Koo said the government, within its capacity, was consulting primarily with market participants to prevent excessive uncertainty and instability in exchange rates.

Koo said he has met with major exporters, who were not repatriating U.S. dollars earned abroad. He also said there has not yet been an opportunity to meet with the national pension fund, whose demand for overseas investment is growing.

"The government is spending taxpayers' money for U.S. investments, in return for lower tariffs, which benefit companies. Companies should be aware of these efforts being made by the government and taxpayers," Koo said, referring to a $350 billion investment package included in a trade deal with the U.S.

(Reporting by Jihoon Lee; Editing by Christopher Cushing)
By Omkar Godbole (All times ET unless indicated otherwise)

The cryptocurrency market is in a mixed mood, with some recent outperformers facing pressure while major cryptocurrencies remain resilient. Privacy-focused coins monero (XMR) and zcash (ZEC) fell more than 4% in the last 24 hours, contrasting with relatively stable trading in bitcoin (BTC), ether (ETH), XRP (XRP), solana (SOL), and others that have bounced back from late Sunday lows.

Notably, the CoinDesk DeFi Select and Smart Contract Select Indices are showing strength, up roughly 5% and 4% respectively since early Asian trading hours, underscoring pockets of growth amid broader caution.

Zcash which, in a rare bright spot against the wider market despondency, has surged over 500% since September, is now teasing a bearish double top pattern (see the Technical Analysis section below). Whether a decline in ZEC heralds a bounce in BTC and ETH  in continuation of diverging trends with majors  remains to be seen.

Hot analysts takes about how we are still early in terms of institutional adoption, and how incoming inflows could lift valuations sky-high, continued to do the rounds, offering hope to battered BTC bulls.

In other development, Arca's CIO Jeff Dorman dismissed speculation about Strategy (MSTR) Executive Chairman Michael Saylor liquidating his BTC holdings, noting that Saylor's financial position would likely shield him from selling unless bitcoins value collapsed precipitously.

Ryan Lee, the chief analyst at Bitget urged traders to monitor U.S. regulatory developments, particularly around exchange-traded funds (ETFs), stablecoin payment frameworks and exchange oversight. These could swiftly shift investor sentiment back to a risk-on stance, Lee said.

In traditional markets, Japanese longer-dated government bond yields surged in response to reports that Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's first stimulus package may include spending worth roughly 17 trillion yen ($110 billion).

With the country's debt-to-GDP ratio already among the highest globally at 240%, such a move could flood the market with bonds and push yields higher, bolstering the risk of a fiscal crisis. For crypto traders, rising Japanese yields may pressure Treasury bonds, pushing yields higher, and weigh on risk assets like tech stocks and digital currencies. Stay alert!

Read more: For analysis of today's activity in altcoins and derivatives, see Crypto Markets Today

What to Watch

For a more comprehensive list of events this week, see CoinDesk's "Crypto Week Ahead".
March NY world sugar #11 (SBH26) today is down -0.16 (-1.07%), and March London ICE white sugar #5 (SWH26) is down -7.70 (-1.81%).

Sugar prices are lower after the International Sugar Organization (ISO) today forecast a 1.625 million MT surplus in 2025-26, following a 2.916 million MT deficit in 2024-25. ISO said the surplus is being driven by increased sugar production in India, Thailand, and Pakistan. In August, ISO had previously forecast a 231,000 MT deficit for the 2025-26 marketing year. ISO is forecasting a +3.2% y/y rise in global sugar production to 181.8 million MT in 2025-26.

More News from Barchart

Sugar prices rallied to 3-week highs last Friday amid tighter supplies from India. India's food ministry said last Friday that it will allow mills to export 1.5 MMT of sugar in the 2025/26 season, less than earlier estimates of 2 MMT. India introduced a quota system for sugar exports in 2022/23 after late rain reduced production and limited domestic supplies.

The outlook for robust global sugar supplies has hammered sugar prices over the past month. Last Monday, London sugar posted a new 4.75-year nearest-futures low, and last Thursday, NY sugar prices slumped to a 5-year nearest-futures low, mainly due to higher sugar output in Brazil and talk of a global sugar surplus. Sugar trader Czarnikow on Nov 5 boosted its global 2025/26 sugar surplus estimate to 8.7 MMT, up +1.2 MMT from a September estimate of 7.5 MMT.

The outlook for record sugar output in Brazil is bearish for prices. Conab, Brazil's crop forecasting agency on November 4 raised its Brazil 2025/26 sugar production estimate to 45 MMT from a previous forecast of 44.5 MMT. Unica recently reported that Brazil's Center-South sugar output in the second half of October rose by +16.4% y/y to 2.068 MT. Also, the percentage of sugarcane crushed for sugar by Brazil's sugar mills in the second half of October increased to 46.02% from 45.91% the same time last year. In addition, cumulative 2025-26 Center-South sugar output through October rose +1.6% y/y to 38.085 MMT.

Signs of a larger sugar crop in India, the world's second-largest producer, are undercutting prices after the India Sugar Mill Association (ISMA) last Tuesday raised its 2025/26 India sugar production estimate to 31 MMT from an earlier forecast of 30 MMT, up +18.8% y/y. The ISMA also cut its estimate for sugar used for ethanol production in India to 3.4 MMT from a July forecast of 5 MMT, which may allow India to boost its sugar exports.
TotalEnergies and Chevron have emerged as the leading contenders to acquire a 40% operating stake in Galp Energias massive Mopane oil discovery offshore Namibia, four industry sources familiar with the talks told Reuters.

The Mopane field, estimated to hold at least 10 billion barrels of oil, has drawn intense interest from global energy majors eager to enter one of the worlds most promising new exploration frontiers. Namibia, which currently has no commercial oil production, is positioning itself to become a top-15 producer globally within the next decade.

Galp plans to select a partner by the end of the year, and a company spokesperson confirmed that negotiations were progressing with a shortlist of preferred bidders strongly aligned with Mopane, though names were not disclosed. TotalEnergies and Chevron declined to comment.

More than a dozen firms, including ExxonMobil, Shell, and Brazils Petrobras, had expressed interest earlier in the process. Exxon withdrew in June, while Petrobras said it had been outbid by TotalEnergies.

Both TotalEnergies and Chevron already operate nearby oilfields in Namibias Orange Basin. TotalEnergies 150,000-barrel-per-day Venus project sits close to Mopane and could offer valuable synergies, though its high gas content poses development challenges. The French company aims to reach a final investment decision next year. Chevron, meanwhile, is seeking to reinvigorate its frontier exploration strategy following mixed results from earlier Namibian drilling.

For TotalEnergies, success in Namibia would reinforce Africas vital role in its upstream portfolio, which accounts for up to 40% of its global oil and gas output.

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Transocean has announced new contract fixtures, totalling around $89m (SFr71.16m) in firm contract backlog, for an ultra-deep-water drill-ship and two semi-submersible rigs to support drilling works off the coasts of Brazil, Norway and Romania.

In Brazil, Petrobras has opted to extend work with Transoceans Deepwater Mykonos drillship by an additional 90 days.

This extension is a direct continuation of its current programme and is expected to contribute around $33m to Transoceans contract backlog.

The Deepwater Mykonos drillship, built in 2011 with an Enhanced Samsung 10000 design, can accommodate 205 individuals.

The rigs maximum drilling depth is 35,000ft, while its maximum water depth is 10,000ft.

A two-well option was exercised for the Transocean Enabler drilling rig in Norway at a rate of $453,000 per day (d), not including additional services.

The Enabler is a harsh-environment semi-submersible rig with a maximum drilling depth of 8,500m and can operate in water depths of up to 500m.

OMV Petrom exercised a single-well option for the Transocean Barents drilling rig in Romania at a rate of $480,000/d.

This harsh-environment semi-submersible rig was built in 2009 with an Aker H-6e design and has a maximum drilling depth of 9,144m.

Transocean provides offshore contract drilling services for oil and gas wells globally. The company focuses on ultra-deep-water and harsh environment drilling services.

Its fleet consists of 27 mobile offshore units including 20 ultra-deep-water floaters and seven floaters designed for harsh environments.

Recently, ConocoPhillips and partners identified gas-bearing zones at the Essington-1 exploration well in the Otway Basin within the VIC/P79 exploration permit offshore Victoria, Australia.

Drilling at the well started on 1 November 2025 using the Transocean Equinox rig and was part of the Otway exploration drilling programme.

The well reached its planned total depth of 2,735m measured depth rotary table without incident.

"Transocean exercises options for drill-ships and semi-submersibles" was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




This story was originally published on Multifamily Dive. To receive daily news and insights, subscribe to our free daily Multifamily Dive newsletter.

After a key executive departure and a set of promotions a month ago, TruAmerica Multifamily has announced four more executive promotions to support the growth of the firms value-add platform, investment management and its complementary business lines, according to a press release shared with Multifamily Dive.

The Los Angeles-based firm promoted Stella Pappas to executive managing director, investment management, responsible for all aspects of the firms fund management, global fundraising and investor relations functions. Pappas, who has over 20 years of investment experience, has institutionalized the firms investor relations, marketing, due diligence and client engagement programs globally since joining in 2022.

Christopher Wei has been promoted to senior managing director, portfolio management, overseeing national disposition, recapitalization and refinancing initiatives. Wei, who has been at TruAmerica since 2013, has led more than $7.1 billion in dispositions and $2 billion in refinancings.

The firm promoted Austen Mount to managing director, operations, where he leads strategic asset oversight and performance optimization across TruAmericas portfolio. Since joining in 2020, Mount has helped roll out TruAmericas artificial intelligence and business intelligence platforms, as well as other data-driven initiatives.

Stefan Long has been promoted to senior director, fund and corporate accounting, overseeing fund accounting and corporate financial operations. Long, who has 15 years of experience in private equity and real estate accounting, has enhanced TruAmericas financial reporting for its Workforce Housing Fund Series and legacy joint-venture investments since joining in 2023.

Bob Hart, founder, CEO and president of TruAmerica, said the changes reflect the firms focus on scaling the platform to meet the nations evolving residential landscape needs.

As one of the largest and most active multifamily investment firms in the country, we are intentionally positioning our leadership team to drive the next phase of growth  both within our core value-add business and across new strategies that are broadening our impact, Hart said in the news release.

A year of changes

TruAmerica has been active on several fronts recently. While Co-Chief Investment Officer Matt Ferrari recently left the firm to launch PXV Multifamily, it announced a batch of promotions in October.
The former Three Mile Island nuclear power plant in Londonderry Township, Pennsylvania, on 25 June 2025. Photograph: Eduardo Munoz/Reuters

The Trump administration has announced a $1bn federal loan to restart the nuclear power plant at Pennsylvanias Three Mile Island that is under contract to provide power to Microsofts datacenters.

The US energy secretary, Chris Wright, said on Tuesday that the loan to Constellation Energy, the plants operator, would ensure America has the energy it needs to grow its domestic manufacturing base and win the AI race.

Constellation signed a 20-year purchase agreement in 2024 with Microsoft, which needs power for its artificial intelligence operations, to restart the 835MW reactor that shut in 2019. The other unit at the plant, renamed the Crane Clean Energy Center, shut in 1979 after the most serious nuclear meltdown and radiation leak in US history.

US power demand is rising for the first time in two decades, driven by technologies including artificial intelligence. Nuclear energy, which is virtually carbon-free, has become an option for technology companies such as Google and Meta. But critics have pointed out that the US has failed to find permanent storage for radioactive waste.

Related: Three Mile Island nuclear reactor to restart to power Microsoft AI operations

In a statement, the US Department of Energy said once Constellations reactor was restarted, it would be able to power the equivalent of approximately 800,000 homes. It also said the project would help lower electricity costs, strengthen grid reliability and create more than 600 jobs.

Wright added: Constellations restart of a nuclear power plant in Pennsylvania will provide affordable, reliable and secure energy to Americans across the mid-Atlantic region. It will also help ensure America has the energy it needs to grow its domestic manufacturing base and win the AI race.

Constellation said the loan would help it lower the cost of financing and leverage private investment to restore power to the grid.

The company has hired hundreds of workers, completed infrastructure inspections and ordered major equipment for the project, which is expected to come online in 2027. It will need to revamp cooling towers, install a main power transformer among other equipment and refuel before producing electricity. The plant also needs US Nuclear Regulatory Commission and water-related permitting, Constellation said this year.

Greg Beard, the head of the energy departments loan programs office, said Constellation was guaranteeing the loan and that the loan structure would protect taxpayers if the project does not succeed.

Companies such as Microsoft, Google, OpenAI, Amazon and Meta are pouring hundreds of billions of dollars into new datacenters to power the boom in artificial intelligence, which has raised a number of concerns around the impact upon the climate, water use and electricity bills.
trump-saudi-arabia-finalize-landmark-trillion-dollar-economic-defense-deal @WhiteHouseX

President Donald Trump and Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman finalized landmark agreements Tuesday that dramatically expand the U.S.-Saudi strategic partnership. The deals include nearly $1 trillion in Saudi investment commitments to the United States.

The agreements mark a significant escalation of economic and defense ties between Washington and Riyadh. They encompass nuclear energy cooperation, critical minerals, artificial intelligence, and major arms sales.

The investment pledge represents a substantial increase from the $600 billion Saudi Arabia committed during Trumps May visit to Riyadh. The expanded partnership includes a Civil Nuclear Cooperation Agreement and an AI Memorandum of Understanding.

These agreements build directly on the Presidents highly successful May visit to Riyadh and the $600 billion in Saudi investment commitments secured for the United States at that time, according to the White House fact sheet.

The nuclear deal establishes the legal framework for a multi-billion-dollar energy partnership lasting decades. It confirms American companies will be Saudi Arabias civil nuclear cooperation partners of choice.

A Critical Minerals Framework agreement aims to diversify supply chains for essential minerals. The AI memorandum gives Saudi Arabia access to American technology systems while protecting U.S. innovations from foreign influence.

On the defense front, Trump and Mohammed bin Salman signed the U.S.-Saudi Strategic Defense Agreement. The historic pact strengthens an 80-year military partnership and includes provisions on burden-sharing.

Trump approved a major defense package, including future deliveries of F-35 fighter jets. Saudi Arabia also agreed to purchase nearly 300 American tanks, supporting U.S. defense industry jobs.

The agreements facilitate easier operations for American defense firms in Saudi Arabia. They position the United States as the Kingdoms primary strategic partner while requiring Saudi Arabia to contribute more to regional security costs.

Trade barriers will be reduced through new agreements on motor vehicle safety standards and investment regulations. The Treasury Department and the Saudi Ministry of Finance signed collaboration agreements on capital markets technology and standards.

The White House emphasized the deals reflect an America First approach to foreign policy. Officials highlighted the potential for job creation and the benefits to American workers and businesses from supply chain security.
Ukrainian energy company DTEK has imported its first cargo of US liquefied natural gas (LNG) via the Klaipeda LNG terminal in Lithuania.

DTEKs subsidiary D.Trading ordered around 160 million cubic metres (mcm) of natural gas from Venture Globals Plaquemines export facility in Louisiana, US.

The Gaslog Houston tanker has arrived at the port of Klaipeda to deliver the LNG to the Klaipeda LNG terminal. The LNG will then be transferred to the Independence floating storage and regasification unit (FSRU).

After regasification, a portion of this LNG cargo will be transported to Ukraine through pipelines and established global interconnector lines.

It is the first time a cargo of natural gas ordered by a Ukrainian company has reached the Klaipeda LNG terminal, according to the Lithuanian Ministry of Energy.

Lithuanias Minister of Energy, Zygimantas Vaiciunas, said: After the brutal Russian attacks on Ukraines energy infrastructure, Lithuania was quick to act  a cargo of LNG is already on its way to Ukraine.

The Klaipeda LNG terminal is one of the busiest and most utilised in Europe, yet it also provides an opportunity to assist Ukraine  through it, we can help ensure gas supply and energy security for our partners.

This is a concrete example of our solidarity and transatlantic cooperation. Together, we are seeking ways to ensure a reliable gas supply to Ukraine during the upcoming winter by making full use of Lithuanias existing infrastructure.

The move comes as Ukraine seeks to diversify energy sources following recent disruptions to domestic gas production.

Russian attacks in October destroyed more than half of Ukraines domestic gas production and storage infrastructure, impacting the countrys energy security.

Ukrainian state-owned oil and gas company Naftogaz recently signed a letter of intent with Greek natural gas company DEPA to import LNG from Greece.

"Ukraines DTEK imports US LNG through Lithuania " was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




UPS is turning to an alternate playbook for when freight operations dont go according to plan, leaning on partner airlines and its ground network during the years busiest shipping period to make up for lost capacity from the mandatory grounding of its MD-11 freighter fleet following the deadly crash of a sister aircraft this month.

The integrated parcel logistics giant has secured additional lift by wet leasing several aircraft, consolidated flight routes to maximize air capacity, and reconfigured truck routes to move more packages through its ground network, spokeswoman Michelle Polk told FreightWaves.

It is UPS (NYSE: UPS) policy not to identify vendors that are under contract. But analysis of aircraft trips on tracking site Flightradar24 shows that Canada-based Cargojet is operating four Boeing 757-200 freighters between UPSs global air hub in Louisville, Kentucky, and its base at the Hamilton International Airport near Toronto. The initial aircraft was deployed on Thursday and Cargojet has since assigned three additional freighters to shuttle parcels and freight between the U.S. and Canada.

Aviation news site Cargo Facts first reported that UPS had booked dedicated charter capacity with Cargojet for an undetermined period of time, with initial reporting that two aircraft were involved.

Amerijet, a smaller all-cargo operator based in Miami, is flying one Boeing 767 freighter in the UPS network through December to support UPSs domestic air network, Amerijet CEO Joe Mozzali confirmed in an email. The aircraft is currently shutting each day between Louisville and Houston.

UPS has also engaged Wilmington, Ohio-based ABX Air and Air Transport International to provide peak season support, with three or four Boeing 767 aircraft, a source at parent company Air Transport Services Group said. He characterized the flying as a routine event that occurs each year for about a three-week period when parcel shipping demand spikes for the holidays. But Flightradar 24 data shows an ABX Air freighter began operating between Louisville and Miami on Nov. 13 and an ATI jet shuttling between Louisville and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport since Nov. 14, suggesting the short-term contract was pulled forward in response to the MD-11 capacity gap.

Cargo Facts previously reported on the dedicated transportation arrangement between UPS and ABX/ATI.

UPS is the primary air cargo operator for the U.S. Postal Service, which is experiencing disruptions in mail and parcel delivery due to the deactivation of UPSs MD-11 fleet, Postmaster General David Steiner said at a board of governors meeting on Friday. He said First-Class mail deliveries will be slower this quarter because of grounding and the cancellation of some commercial flights during the government shutdown, but that the impact is expected to be temporary.
Valued at a market cap of $28.2 billion, Extra Space Storage Inc. (EXR) is a real estate investment trust (REIT) that specialises in self-storage facilities. The Salt Lake City, Utah-based company offers a wide range of storage solutions, including climate-controlled units, drive-up access units, lockers, as well as vehicle, boat and RV storage.

This industrial REIT has considerably underperformed the broader market over the past 52 weeks. Shares of EXR have declined 20.7% over this time frame, while the broader S&P 500 Index ($SPX) has gained 13.7%. Moreover, on a YTD basis, the stock is down 12.7%, compared to SPXs 13.4% uptick.

More News from Barchart

Narrowing the focus, EXR has also lagged behind the Real Estate Select Sector SPDR Funds (XLRE) 5.4% drop over the past 52 weeks and marginal YTD rise.

www.barchart.com

On Oct. 29, EXR delivered mixed Q3 results, and its shares plunged 4.9% in the following trading session. On the upside, the companys core FFO of $2.08 increased marginally from the year-ago quarter and surpassed the consensus estimates of $2.06. However, its total revenue improved 4.1% year-over-year to $858.5 million, but missed analyst expectations by a slight margin, dampening investor confidence.

For the current fiscal year, ending in December, analysts expect EXRs FFO to decline 10.5% year over year to $8.16. The companys FFO surprise history is mixed. It exceeded the consensus estimates in three of the last four quarters, while missing on another occasion.

Among the 22 analysts covering the stock, the consensus rating is a "Moderate Buy, which is based on eight Strong Buy, one "Moderate Buy, and 13 "Hold ratings.

www.barchart.com

This configuration has remained consistent over the past three months.

On Nov. 11, Barclays PLC (BCS) analyst Brendan Lynch maintained a "Buy" rating on EXR and set a price target of $169, indicating a 29.5% potential upside from the current levels.

The mean price target of $156.47 represents a 19.9% premium from EXRs current price levels, while the Street-high price target of $178 suggests a 36.3% potential upside from the current levels.

On the date of publication, Neharika Jain did not have (either directly or indirectly) positions in any of the securities mentioned in this article. All information and data in this article is solely for informational purposes. This article was originally published on Barchart.com
Selloffs in the market these days almost always bring back the debate about market valuations and the strength of the economy. When the selloff happens in tech stocks, the AI Bubble debate is added to the mix. This is what happened last week when stocks like Palantir (PLTR), Tesla (TSLA), and Nvidia (NVDA) went down and spooked the market. Analysts from Wedbush came to the rescue of the dwindling investor sentiment with a positive and upbeat note on the potential of tech stocks going forward.

Dan Ives, managing director at Wedbush Securities, has called it a buying opportunity and believes the ongoing fears in the market only add to some near-term concerns and do not influence the long-term AI potential.

More News from Barchart

Analysts have pointed out that the hyperscalers continue to invest in AI infrastructure, and no slowdown is expected on that front, at least in 2026. As the technology advances, its applications in different fields will continue to generate growth. The AI arms race is going strong, and investors could be in for a great ride this week, especially with Nvidia earnings coming up on Nov. 19.

About Palantir Stock

Palantir is a software company that works closely with businesses, governments, and intelligence agencies to help identify real-world threats and respond to them. It does so through its Gotham and Foundry platforms while also using AI to enhance its offerings. It is headquartered in Denver, Colorado.

The companys stock has been range-bound since August, but its one-year gains stand at a healthy 164%, making it a top performer just like last year. It is also up nearly 1000% in the last five years.

barchart.com

Palantir's stock valuation will always be a hotly debated topic. The company is in a league of its own and continues to post record-breaking growth numbers. It trades at a forward P/E of 300x with a consensus earnings growth rate averaging just under 40% over the next three years.

The firms Ontology (the layer that Palantir builds on top of an organization's existing data) is unique and offers such a strong moat that the company can walk into any industry and change the way people work. The traditional valuation metrics, therefore, do not do justice to how the company should be valued.
Chinese export restrictions imposed in April on heavy rare earths in the magnets have in some cases suspended operations at auto plants and jolted the West into action. On October 30, Beijing agreed to delay new controls under a U.S.-China deal.

MP is a high-profile example of the impact of continued dependency by the West on China for heavy rare earth processing. According to consultancy Benchmark Mineral Intelligence, the West will still rely on China for 91% of its heavy rare earths needs by 2030, down only slightly from 99% in 2024.

"We believe we are very well positioned," MP's Matt Sloustcher, executive vice president of corporate affairs, told Reuters.

Another source of feedstock will be recycled materials supplied by Apple that contain heavy rare earths under a $500 million deal for MP to supply magnets to the tech giant.

In an analysts conference call on November 6, Chief Operating Officer Michael Rosenthal said MP was "actively engaged" with a number of potential feedstock providers for heavies, but did not name them.

"MP Materials may have a formidable challenge," said Ilya Epikhin, senior principal with consultants Arthur D. Little. "They'll need to go to Brazil or Malaysia, or some African states to find those resources, but it can take a lot of time."

MP's Mountain Pass mine in California contains only traces of those two elements, which are used in small quantities in the magnets but are vital. Dysprosium and terbium help magnets retain their magnetic qualities under high temperatures, such as in EV engines.

But shortages of heavy elements dysprosium and terbium could be an Achilles heel for MP Materials and the West's campaign to forge a magnets industry away from geopolitical turbulence that has constricted supply from China, analysts say.

It trumpeted its success earlier this month, boosting processed output of two light rare earths by 51% this quarter.

MP Materials aims to integrate the entire supply chain from mining rare earths to magnet production and has ambitious plans to produce magnets within years, buoyed by a July deal comprising billions of dollars in U.S. government support.

The United States and allies have been scrambling to create an alternative supply chain to make super-strong rare earth magnets, which are vital components in everything from defence technology and electric vehicles, to electronics and wind turbines.

LONDON (Reuters) -The West's push to build a home-grown magnets supply chain to reduce its reliance on China - led by massive U.S. backing for Nevada-based MP Materials - is running into a critical problem: the scarcity of so-called heavy rare earth elements.

Story Continues

SCRAMBLE TO LINE UP HEAVIES

The proportion of heavy rare earths in deposits is much smaller than the other elements used in magnets, with the relative ratio of heavy rare earths in global mines only half of their relative ratio in permanent magnets.

The scarcity of heavy rare earths outside of China is evident in the price of dysprosium oxide in Rotterdam at $900 per kg, more than triple the price in China of $255, according to data provider Fastmarkets.

"If you talk about critical resources, it's really the heavies, the heavies, the heavies - all the rest we will get," said Erik Eschen, CEO of Germany's Vacuumschmelze (VAC), one of the few rare earth magnet producers outside China.

VAC has been busy inking deals with miners that produce heavy rare earths to supply its new U.S. plant in South Carolina that recently opened.

VAC has agreed supply deals for heavy rare earths with Canada's privately-held Torngat Metals from its Strange Lake project in Quebec and Aclara Resources from its Carina project in Brazil.

"Even with limited capacity in the West, we're succeeding at securing the capacity we need," Eschen said.

Magnet production capacity outside of China and Japan is expected to hit 70,000 metric tons a year by 2030, which would need 1,650 tons a year of dysprosium oxide, according to critical minerals consultancy Adamas Intelligence.

"Heavies are definitely the next piece of the puzzle that needs to be dealt with to unlock widespread Western magnet production at scale," said Adamas managing director Ryan Castilloux.

Despite the flurry of recent deals and rhetoric in the West, mines outside of China are forecast to meet only 29% of the heavy rare earths consumed outside China in the auto and wind sectors by 2035, according to data from London-based commodity consultancy CRU.

"To close this gap, more mine supply will be needed with costs higher than the current supply base," said Piyush Goel at CRU.

PROJECTS TO TAKE YEARS

A wide range of companies have been publicising new projects and processing facilities for heavy rare earths, but most of them will take many years to come to fruition.

The two biggest Western firms in the sector, MP Materials and Lynas Rare Earths of Australia, are both looking for additional ore to process since their own mines are not rich enough in heavy elements.

Lynas kicked off heavy rare earth separation earlier this year in Malaysia, becoming the worlds first such producer outside China.

The Australian group announced last month it would expand output of heavy rare earths to 250 metric tons of dysprosium and 50 tons of terbium a year, but gave no timeline, saying it depended on regulatory approvals.

CEO Amanda Lacaze told analysts on a call on October 30 that Lynas planned to source heavy rare earths both from its own Mt. Weld mine in Australia and from Malaysia, where its processing plant is located.

"We have a team whose job it is to work with various Malaysian partners on that development process."

This contrasts with a global deficit forecast by CRU by 2035 of 2,920 tons in the supply/demand balance of dysprosium and terbium oxides.

Another Australian company, Iluka Resources, is building a refinery at Eneabba in Western Australia that will eventually be able to process up to 750 tons a year of heavy rare earths. It is expected to be commissioned in 2027.

The company told Reuters it has moderate amounts of heavy rare earths in its own material and has agreed a deal with Northern Minerals to supply heavy rare earths from its new mine in Western Australia, due to start production in 2028.

MP MATERIALS' MINE HAS SCANT HEAVIES

MP Materials, which owns the only U.S. rare earths mine, aims to eventually lift magnet output to 10,000 metric tons a year.

It plans to launch a heavy rare earth separation facility next year that will eventually be able to produce 200 tons a year of dysprosium and terbium.

But MP Materials' mine produces mainly light rare earths, with its deposit containing less than 1.8% medium and heavy rare earths.

MP said it has stockpiled several hundred tons of medium and heavy rare earth concentrate in preparation for magnet production, but this only contains 4% dysprosium and terbium, according to the company's website.

ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS SEEN AS BOTTLENECK

Brazil is emerging as a major heavy rare earth (HREE) ore exporter, but the real challenge lies in processing capacity, said Neha Mukherjee, a rare earths analyst with Benchmark Mineral Intelligence.

"While the technology for HREE refining is expected to be available globally by 2029, costs outside of China remain 57 times higher," Mukherjee said.

Higher amounts of heavy rare earths are found in ionic clay mine deposits, where the standard extraction technique involves flushing the deposit with chemicals, which in Myanmar has caused contamination of water supplies and deforestation.

Western miners say they use environmentally-friendly extraction methods, but they have sometimes met with scepticism and opposition by residents to mine plans.

Rare earth mining of deposits from monazite ore includes radioactive elements uranium and thorium, which can be difficult to dispose of safely.

"A key bottleneck for new production will be the higher negative impact of heavy rare earth mining and processing on the local environment," CRU's Goel said.

Some companies, including VAC, have produced magnets without heavy rare earths, but they have limited applications, such as slow-moving wind turbines, said Eschen.

"The moment you go into other applications, for example, a motor for EVs, turning very fast, going 120, 140 degrees Celsius, then you need the heavies."

(Additional reporting by Melanie Burton in Melbourne and Ernest Scheyder in Houston; Editing by Veronica Brown and Claudia Parsons)
Ariel Investments, an investment management company, released its Ariel Global Fund third-quarter 2025 investor letter. A copy of the letter can be downloaded here. Global equities rallied in the third quarter, driven by AI enthusiasm, resilient corporate earnings, the first U.S. rate cut of the year, and targeted policy easing across key regions. Against this backdrop, the Ariel Global fund traded +4.99% higher in the quarter, compared to the +7.62% return of the MSCI ACWI Index and +6.13% return of the MSCI ACWI Value Index. In addition, please check the funds top five holdings to know its best picks in 2025.

In its third-quarter 2025 investor letter, Ariel Global Fund highlighted stocks such as M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB). M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) is a bank holding company for Manufacturers and Traders Trust Company and Wilmington Trust, National Association. The one-month return of M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) was -0.01%, and its shares gained 14.72% of their value over the last 52 weeks. On November 18, 2025, M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) stock closed at $182.10 per share, with a market capitalization of $28.457 billion.

Ariel Global Fund stated the following regarding M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) in its third quarter 2025 investor letter:

"We purchased M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB), a regionally focused commercial bank with strong local scale in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. Its strategy prioritizes density over national expansion, with selective acquisitions like the successful Peoples merger enhancing its deposit base. The bank has actively reduced risk in its commercial real estate portfolio and leverages unique agency licenses to generate fee income. M&T is also well-positioned to benefit from partnerships in private credit. While near-term credit risks remain, especially in commercial real estate, the banks consistent operating leverage and above-peer returns support a favorable long-term outlook."

M&T Bank Corporation (MTB): One of the Top Dividend Challengers in 2025

M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) is not on our list of 30 Most Popular Stocks Among Hedge Funds. According to our database, 45 hedge fund portfolios held M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) at the end of the second quarter, compared to 52 in the previous quarter. While we acknowledge the potential of M&T Bank Corporation (NYSE:MTB) as an investment, we believe certain AI stocks offer greater upside potential and carry less downside risk. If you're looking for an extremely undervalued AI stock that also stands to benefit significantly from Trump-era tariffs and the onshoring trend, see our free report on the best short-term AI stock.
Sir Keir Starmer refused to rule out freezing income tax thresholds at next weeks Budget, which could result in people paying more tax by stealth.

At Prime Ministers Questions on Wednesday, Sir Keir declined to answer a number of questions from opposition leader Kemi Badenoch on the issue of threshold freezes.

His refusal to answer came after chancellor Rachel Reeves had been expected to breach Labours manifesto promises and increase income tax as part of her plans to plug the gap in the public finances. The chancellor is instead widely expected to raise other taxes on 26 November.

Additionally, frozen tax thresholds could be used to raise more money for the Treasury, in effect rising taxes by stealth. Even if income tax rates are not increased, people could end up paying more tax as a result of the freezes.

The tax-free personal allowance was frozen at 12,570 until 2028 by the previous Conservative government. Freezing tax thresholds can create what economists call fiscal drag  more people are pulled into higher tax brackets as average earnings increase, but the thresholds stay the same.

Rachel Reeves will deliver the Budget next week (Getty)

Here we tell you all you need to know about income tax and the thresholds.

What is income tax?

Income tax is a tax paid on your income, though not all types of income can be taxed. How much income tax you pay is based on how much you earn above your personal allowance and how much of your income falls within each tax band.

The standard personal allowance has been 12,570 since 2021. This means that you do not pay tax on the first 12,570 of your earnings in a financial year. The rate of tax then increases depending on how much you earn.

However, the personal allowance goes down by 1 for every 2 that your adjusted net income is above 100,000. This means your allowance is zero if your income is 125,140 or above.

What are the thresholds and income tax bands?

The income tax bands (Gov.uk)

These bands mean that 20 per cent tax is paid on earnings between 12,571 and 50,270. Earnings between 50,271 and 125,140 are subject to a higher rate of 40 per cent tax.

People who earn in excess of 100,000 start losing the 12,570 personal allowance. This goes down by 1 for every 2 earned above 100,000. The personal allowance does not exist for those earning above 125,140. There is also an additional rate of 45 per cent income tax on all earnings above that.

These rates apply in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, but different rates apply in Scotland.

What is the stealth tax?

Since 2021, the income tax personal allowance has been frozen at 12,570. This is the amount that can be paid before income tax deductions begin. The measure has been criticised as a way for the Treasury to boost revenue from income tax without increasing its rates.
Tech stocks slid again on Tuesday, leading stocks down for a fourth straight session.

Nvidia's earnings are in full focus as investors fret over the health of the AI trade.

Home Depot's earnings also raised fresh concerns about consumer strength.

The tech-led market plunge continued for a fourth day on Tuesday.

High-flying tech and AI names tumbled again, rattled by a cocktail of concerns ahead of Nvidia earnings and ongoing worries about valuations broadly. Wall Street is focused on the chip giant's results for the third quarter, with the stock down about 7% in the last five days.

Prominent investors have fled the stock recently, including Japanese conglomerate SoftBank and Thiel Macro, the hedge fund of tech titan Peter Thiel. Both offloaded their entire stakes in the last week. Given the AI leader's status as a bellwether for the broader tech sector and the AI trade, stakes are high ahead of the third-quarter report.

This follows mounting concerns that big tech valuations have risen too high, making them vulnerable to a deeper correction.

Bitcoin also tumbled deeper into bear market territory on Tuesday, erasing its year-to-date gains due to liquidity concerns, waning rate-cut odds, and the broader risk-off shift. The token dipped below $90,000 for the first time since April.

Looming in the background of the recent market decline is the Fed. The odds of a December rate cut have dropped sharply in the last month after the White House said some economic data will likely never be released after the government shutdown, and as some Fed officials delivered hawkish remarks on their views of monetary policy.

The CME FedWatch Tool showed investors think the odds of a 25 basis point cut next month are essentially a coin toss after they were pricing in almost a 100% chance of a cut about a month ago.

Bond yields dropped as investors fled to safe havens. The 10-year Treasury yield fell four basis points to 4.09%

Here's where US indexes stood around 12:25 p.m. on Tuesday:

Finally, consumer strength is in focus on Tuesday after another industry bellwether reported disappointing earnings and gave a downbeat forecast. Home Depot, often seen as an indicator for the housing market and the health of the US consumer, reported results that came in below Wall Street estimates for the third consecutive quarter and reduced its full-year sales forecast.

"When we set guidance, we had anticipated that demand would begin to accelerate gradually in the back half of the year as interest rates and mortgage rates eased," stated CFO Richard McPhail. "But what we saw was that ongoing consumer uncertainty and continued pressure in housing are disproportionately impacting home improvement demand."
Wood, a UK-based provider of technical services to the energy sector, has secured a contract from PetroChina for the West Qurna 1 oilfield in southern Iraq.

Under the contract, Wood will undertake engineering, procurement and construction (EPC) works across the West Qurna 1 development.

This extends the company's decade-long support for one of the worlds largest crude developments and supports Iraqs energy goals, stated Wood.

Wood plans to deliver the contract by utilising nearly 200 of its employees based in Iraq and the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Wood Europe, Middle East and Africa operations president Ellis Renforth said: The West Qurna 1 field underpins the nations energy security and contributes significantly to its economic resilience.

This contract award deepens our decade-long partnership at West Qurna 1 and reflects the continued trust placed in Wood to deliver complex energy solutions in Iraq.

We are proud to combine our global expertise with a strong local workforce to help support Iraqs energy ambitions.

West Qurna 1 is located approximately 50km north-west of Basra and is estimated to hold more than 20 billion barrels (bbbl) of recoverable reserves.

The oilfield is considered a core part of Iraqs strategy to sustain and potentially increase crude output to global markets.

In 2024, ExxonMobil ceased operations at West Qurna 1, transferring its responsibilities to PetroChina, which now owns the biggest share in the oilfield.

West Qurna 1, in addition to around 20bbbl of proven crude deposits, has a production rate of nearly 550,000 barrels per day.

ExxonMobils decision to exit the oilfield followed its earlier departure from the Pirman gas block in Kurdistan, north Iraq.

In September this year, Wood accepted a $291.5m (216m) conditional takeover bid from Dubai-based Sidara, ending a year-long process that involved several offers.

"Wood secures EPC contract for West Qurna 1 oilfield in Iraq " was originally created and published by Offshore Technology, a GlobalData owned brand.




Can Bitcoin really hit $220K in 45 days? A bold prediction has sparked heated debates online. | Image Credit: Kanchanara/Unsplash

A viral prediction is sending shockwaves through the crypto world: a man dubbed as the worlds smartest, claiming an IQ of 276, insists Bitcoin is on track to blast its way to $220,000 within just 45 days. Its the kind of forecast that makes even the most die-hard Bitcoin believers pause  and skeptics lean in with curiosity. Could he be seeing something everyone else is missing, or is this just another spectacularly bold claim built to grab attention?

YoungHoon Kim counters AI model with eye-popping Bitcoin projection

YoungHoon Kim, a social media personality often reported as the worlds smartest man thanks to his self-reported IQ of 276, has stirred the crypto community with a striking new forecast: Bitcoin soaring to $220,000 in just 45 days. His prediction, shared on X on November 16, came as a direct rebuttal to a Grok AI model that suggested BTC could climb to $175,000 by the end of the year.

Kim insists the surge could happen far sooner, pointing to Bitcoins current level near $95,400 as the starting point for an accelerated rally. Doubling down on his conviction, he also vowed that if his projection proves accurate, I will use 100% of my Bitcoin profits to build churches for Jesus Christ in every nation.

If you follow Kim online, its clear that his bullish stance on Bitcoin is far from new. Just this September, he proclaimed: As the worlds highest IQ record holder and Grand Master of Memory, I believe that Bitcoin is the only hope for the future economy. According to Kim, he has shifted all his assets into Bitcoin, projecting that the cryptocurrency could increase 100x over the next ten years, potentially pushing BTC past the $10 million mark. He also predicts that Bitcoin will emerge as the worlds ultimate reserve asset, surpassing gold, global currencies, and even U.S. Treasuries.

Experts question YoungHoon Kims credibility

YoungHoon Kim, the 36-year-old South Korean founder of the United Sigma Intelligence Association, has built a sizable online following, but his reputation remains controversial. Experts have openly questioned his IQ claims, and Paul Cooijmans of the Giga Society once labeled him a pathologically lying impostor in a VICE interview.
(Reuters) -Yann LeCun, one of the founding figures of modern artificial intelligence and a pivotal force at Meta Platforms, said on Wednesday he plans to leave the company at the end of the year to launch a new AI startup.

LeCun has been a key part of Meta's artificial intelligence ambitions for more than a decade. He joined the company in 2013 to create Facebook AI Research (FAIR), the in-house lab that helped transform Meta into one of the AI leaders.

Over 12 years, he served five as FAIR's founding director and seven as the company's chief AI scientist, guiding breakthroughs in deep learning, computer vision and large-scale language modeling that underpin products like Instagram recommendations and Meta's generative AI systems.

He developed an early form of an artificial neural network that mimicked how the human eye and brain process images  technology that later became the backbone of modern image recognition and GenAI.

LeCun, 65, said his new venture will pursue Advanced Machine Intelligence (AMI) research  a project he has developed in collaboration with colleagues at FAIR and New York University, where he teaches.

The computer scientist said he will provide more details on his new firm at a later date, but added that Meta will be a partner in the venture, reflecting what he called the company's "continued interest and support" for AMI's long-term goals.

"The creation of FAIR is my proudest non-technical accomplishment," he wrote. "The impact of FAIR on Meta, the AI field, and the wider world has been spectacular."

Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and CTO Andrew Bosworth have both credited LeCun with laying the foundations for Meta's current AI infrastructure, including its open-source Llama models that have become a cornerstone of the global AI research community.

LeCun is widely regarded as one of the "godfathers" of deep learning, alongside Geoffrey Hinton and Yoshua Bengio  a trio that won the 2018 Turing Award, often called the Nobel Prize of computing.

(Reporting by Akash Sriram in Bengaluru; Editing by Alan Barona)
Yellow Corp.s long-running bankruptcy saga may finally be turning a corner after a federal judge approved the former trucking giants Chapter 11 liquidation planan essential step toward wrapping up one of the transportation industrys most sprawling collapses.

In a Delaware bankruptcy court Monday, Judge Craig Goldblatt issued an oral decision confirming Yellows plan, which is the fourth iteration put forward since the carrier filed in August 2023.

More from Sourcing Journal

Goldblatt determined that while the plan has its flaws, it delivers stronger recoveries for creditors than the alternative favored by MFN Partners, the hedge fund holding 42.5 percent of Yellows equity. The asset management firm appealed the ruling Tuesday, meaning the proposal still has one final legal hurdle before it can go into effect.

MFN has argued for months that the case should be converted to a Chapter 7 liquidation overseen by an independent trustee. But Goldblatt warned would reignite entrenched disputes, prolong the case by up to two years and reduce creditor payouts by as much as $50 million.

The judge estimated Yellows remaining assets at $650 million to $700 million, and he pointed to the estates monthly professional feesaround $3.5 millionas a major reason an extended timeline could erode value.

MFN contended that several creditor groups, particularly multi-employer pension funds and members of the unsecured creditors committee, wielded outsized influence during the case and stood to benefit from control of the post-confirmation liquidating trust.

In September, an appeals court affirmed the bankruptcy courts ruling that Yellow remains on the hook for $6.5 billion in debt claims by 11 of its pension funds. MFN said in its plan objection that it was working with Yellow on a petition to the U.S. Supreme Court challenging that decision.

Both Yellow and MFN argue that the pension funds calculations failed to account for federal rescue funding the plans received through the American Rescue Plan Act.

The hedge fund also maintains that the trusts governance structure was stacked with conflicted members and claimed the plan failed to meet the best interests of creditors test.

Goldblatt acknowledged that creditor factions had made rather aggressive use of their tools, but said the plan had been proposed in good faith and met the necessary standards.
Nvidia reported earnings on Wednesday, topping analysts' estimates. Of course, the AI chipmaker is the focus of the market most days. Nvidia (NVDA) is one of the so-called Magnificent Seven  the large-cap technology companies that generate the most interest and arguably the highest profits in the stock market, particularly the S&P 500 index (^SPX). The group includes Nvidia, Apple, Amazon, Google's parent company Alphabet, Facebook's Meta, Microsoft, and Tesla.

If you're thinking about buying Nvidia, a portfolio manager says consider also buying dozens of other stocks just like it.

Here's why.

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If you buy Nvidia, consider buying many more just like it, portfolio manager says

Investing has become a mainstream American effort to build financial security, even among low- and moderate-income households. More than half (54%) of such households surveyed said they invest in the capital markets, according to a recent survey by BlackRock Foundation and Commonwealth.

However, the survey also highlighted the top challenge of newer investors: not knowing what to invest in and concerns about risk.

David Krakauer, vice president of portfolio management at Mercer Advisors, suggests investors should search for a great stock like Nvidia  and multiply it.

"I think you first need to define what it is you believe drives long-term returns in equities," Krakauer said in a Yahoo Finance interview. "If you believe it's profitability or value, like book-to-value, momentum, whatever those characteristics are that you look for in stocks and you believe are helping to define the outlook, then why pigeonhole yourself into just a few stocks?"

He believes investors can mitigate risk by screening multiple stocks that mirror the fundamentals, matching their investment philosophy.

"We could debate all day long on what fundamentals to look at, but let's just assume investors know what they're doing," he added. "Why just one? Why not buy 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 100 stocks that look good according to momentum or look good according to profitability?"

Read more: Create a stock investing strategy in 3 steps

Elon Musk wakes up and 'makes a wild decision'

"Is it riskier to have a portfolio of, say, seven stocks than it is to have something a little more broad? So if we're defining risk simply as standard deviation, the volatility of your portfolio, then absolutely," Krakauer said.

"The fewer stocks you have, the more volatile and greater the swings are in the value of your portfolio. So that's one measure of risk," Krakauer added. "Systematic risk is the risk of the equity market in general. And you usually get paid for systematic risk. You want exposure to the equity market."

What you don't get paid for, Krakauer believes, is non-systematic or idiosyncratic risk. That's the risk of holding a small number of equities. He uses Tesla (TSLA) as an example.

"Idiosyncratic risk would be the idea that Elon Musk is going to wake up tomorrow and make a wild decision. Maybe it's an announcement about something that is a risk because of Elon Musk. So that's a risk you're taking with Tesla. If you're concentrated in Tesla, that doesn't pay you."

ETFs are a diversifying option

Krakauer believes that the average investor should focus primarily on financial planning above all else. Their investment portfolio needs to be constructed to increase the probability of success in meeting those financial goals, such as retirement.

Low-cost, passive, and highly diversified exposure to markets with exchange-traded funds is the right approach for most investors, he added.

"You could do the best research in the world on a stock. All the fundamentals may line up with your investment philosophy; the technicals look attractive. But no one knows what any individual stock is going to do over the next month, over the next six months, over the next year. So that is why it is essential to have diversification across many stocks," he said.

Read more: 5 best questions to ask your financial advisor in the new year

Consider the impact of taxes

One of the biggest challenges of running an individual stock portfolio is taxes, and ETFs can also help minimize the tax burden, Krakauer said, because investors should consider portfolio performance net of taxes.

ETFs rarely make capital gains distributions, unlike mutual funds. Another benefit of ETFs: avoiding the wash sale rule. That's when an investor wants to claim a loss on a stock to offset the gain on another for tax purposes. If they buy a "substantially identical" security within 30 days, the tax break is disallowed.

However, investors can sell one ETF fund and replace it with another that tracks a different but similar index, allowing them to take the tax loss.

"So using ETFs that allocate and can reconstitute the portfolio for you under the hood without a taxable event is absolutely key to this," Krakauer said.

Read more: Taxes on stocks: Here are the rules and rates
The European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) is celebrating its fifth anniversary, marking five years since its launch as the world's first innovation centre dedicated to space resources. ESRIC's mission is to enable sustainable space exploration and lay the foundations for a future in-space economy.

Founded in 2020 by the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), with the European Space Agency (ESA) as strategic partner, ESRIC has become a key part of Luxembourg's long-term strategy to develop its space sector. Driven by the forward-looking SpaceResources.lu initiative, and backed by a general agreement signed last year between the Luxembourg government and LIST, ESRIC was created to create a strategic national capability that supports space exploration, fuels economic diversification, and positions Luxembourg at the heart of Europe's future in-space economy.

Based within LIST, ESRIC has grown to a team of thirty people leading activities across three core pillars: research, commercialisation and community. ESRIC's research programme, including funding from the Luxembourg National Research Fund (FNR) to the ESRIC director under the PEARL programme, focuses on the sustainable and responsible use of space resources and the team is developing tools, technologies and knowledge that will enable the use of resources such as oxygen, metals and water on the Moon. In this dynamic sector, ESRIC supports start-ups and early-stage ventures with its unique incubator and accelerator programmes, in partnership with Technoport and ESA. Collaborating with a broad network of national and international experts, ESRIC has so far supported 32 companies through these programmes, with six relocating to Luxembourg as a direct result of their participation.

ESRIC also plays a critical role in bringing people together through the largest dedicated event for the community, the annual Space Resources Week conference. The 2025 edition, held in May, welcomed over 450 participants to Luxembourg from around the world, including delegates from space agencies, industry, start-ups, academia and research institutes, and many more organisations. The event continues to position ESRIC and Luxembourg at the centre of the global space resources community.

"As ESRIC turns five, we can be incredibly proud of what we've achieved as a team, together with the support of LSA, LIST and ESA, said Kathryn Hadler, Director of ESRIC. "Space resources is an exciting and challenging domain that could transform space exploration and provide tangible benefits for Earth. This anniversary is a moment to celebrate the collaborations and support that have made ESRIC's achievements possible and to look forward to the next five years of continued growth.

Looking ahead, ESRIC is expanding its facilities in Luxembourg, including the upcoming Dusty Thermal Vacuum Chamber developed with ESA funding, which will allow the community to test technologies under conditions similar to those on the Moon. The centre will continue to advance research, support entrepreneurs, and foster international collaboration, reinforcing Luxembourg's position as Europe's hub for sustainable space resources innovation.

ESA, as strategic partner, contributes to the establishment, operations and utilisation of ESRIC through its Terrae Novae exploration programme. Providing funds, equipment and technical contributions, the European Space Agency works in close coordination with the teams to support the development of the national space ecosystem.

About ESRIC

The European Space Resources Innovation Centre (ESRIC) is Europe's hub for sustainable space-resources research and innovation. Founded in 2020 by the Luxembourg Space Agency (LSA) and the Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology (LIST), and with the European Space Agency (ESA) as strategic partner, ESRIC has become a key part of Luxembourg's long-term space vision; one built on innovation, sustainability, and international cooperation.

About Terrae Novae

The Terrae Novae exploration programme groups ESA's exploration campaigns to low Earth orbit, the Moon, and Mars into a unified programme. The programme delivers the Explore2040 strategy based on a vision in which Europe will be at the forefront of a sustained, sustainable and responsible human and robotic space exploration by providing unique contributions and returning benefits to society. Space exploration is unquestionably an investment in future prosperity. It creates high quality jobs and produces immediate economic benefits. Exploration science and technology boosts innovation and makes industry more competitive.

Press release by the Ministry of the Economy / Ministry of Research and Higher Education / Luxembourg Space Agency / Luxembourg Institute of Science and Technology / Centre europeen d'innovation en ressources spatiales
About 73% of Americans consume ice cream at least once a week, and they trust that every scoop they enjoy will be safe.

The dairy industry protects that trust by assuring expertise, programs, and proactive safeguards are in place. The farmer-founded Innovation Center for U.S. Dairy has volunteers who focus on maintaining consumer confidence by helping ice cream makers  including farmers  strengthen their food safety practices.

The Innovation Centers food safety team convenes experts and small dairy processors from across the value chain to develop science-based resources that protect consumers and dairys reputation. One great example of our work is the recently published How to Grow Your Ice Cream Business Safely.

Most people picture the iconic national ice cream brands. They are important partners, yet the landscape goes well beyond them. Hundreds of medium-sized companies and farmstead operations are growing across the country, fueled by consumers who want local products and unique flavors. This might be your local scoop shop, but it also includes many dairy farmers welcoming people to their farms to enjoy homemade ice cream.

These businesses bring excitement and opportunity, but they also introduce the potential for food safety risk. A single recall can be devastating to a company  or a farm  and can ripple across the entire category. That is why the Innovation Center has created ice cream safety resources designed specifically to meet the needs of these smaller operators and farmers who may not have access to in-house technical support.

We bring this guidance to life through online workshops, training sessions, and at conferences where volunteers present and answer one-on-one questions. Youll find a wealth of resources at the Safe Ice Cream Hub, which features guides, templates, workshops, and other resources.

We also are present at industry gatherings such as the recent Conecon hosted by the North American Ice Cream Association where small- to mid-sized companies came to learn and network at university workshops and technical conferences hosted by the International Dairy Foods Association. These events provide opportunities for our team to answer questions and help businesses build stronger programs.

Its important that our work includes farmers perspectives, which is why the food safety committee includes producer representation. For example, Lolly Lesher, a Pennsylvania dairy farmer who produces ice cream at her familys dairy, provides important viewpoints and ensures our resources are helpful to farmers and small processors.

Every effort supports a single objective. When consumers choose ice cream, they deserve confidence that it is safe.

Your checkoff investment makes that possible by uniting experts, sharing knowledge, and giving ice cream businesses the tools they need to grow their businesses safely.

To learn more about your national dairy checkoff, visit DairyCheckoff.com or to reach us directly, send an email.

To comment, email your remarks to intel@hoards.com.
Global AI for cybersecurity provider Darktrace, has highlighted the most prolific cybercrime activities in the APJ region in the 12-months to July 2025.

Geopolitical tensions, rapid digital transformation, and deeper integration of generative AI have seen a sharp rise in the volume and sophistication of attacks across the region. State-sponsored APTs and ransomware gangs ramped up their efforts to infiltrate critical infrastructure, financial institutions, and government agencies across APAC, with notable threat groups like Lazarus, APT40, Earth Lamia, and SilverFox leading attacks.

Business email compromise represents the biggest threat. In 2024, Darktraces email security system, Darktrace / EMAIL, found that 32% of all phishing emails detected globally featured novel social engineering features, highlighting the increasing sophistication of phishing lures[7].

Difficulties in securing complex cloud environments amidst manual and decentralised processes highlight the need for a unified security solution.

Supply chain attacks have become an unavoidable reality, with adversaries targeting upstream suppliers and software to compromise multiple organisations in a single campaign.

Darktrace Director of Incident Response, Victoria Baldie said:

Defending against the Advanced Persistent Threats and ransomware groups that plague APJ governments and organisations has never been more important, or more challenging.

The lines between state-sponsored and financially-motivated groups are disappearing, and the increased adoption of generative AI by threat actors has scaled operations significantly.

State-sponsored APT attacks surge, incorporate generative AI into operations

Across the region, Darktrace observed APTs increasing use of generative AI to create more convincing phishing messages, automate social engineering, and even assist in malware development. This allows sophisticated attacks that are harder to detect, escalating the overall threat landscape.

Australia Chinese-linked APT40 (also known as Leviathan) repeatedly targeted the Australian government and private sector by exploiting public vulnerabilities in popular software such as Atlassian Confluence (CVE-2021-26084) or Microsoft Exchange (CVE-2021-34523)[8].

Singapore Chinese-linked UNC3886, a newly identified threat actor is drawing increasing concern as a serious risk to Singapores critical infrastructure[9].

Japan Chinese-linked APT41 (also known as Winnti) launched the RevivalStone cyberespionage campaign against Japanese enterprises in many different sectors including manufacturing, materials and energy[10].

South Korea DPRK-affiliated APT groups, namely Kimsuky and Andariel are reportedly behind the surge in attacks against South Korean government agencies and critical infrastructure to steal political and diplomatic intelligence that shapes strategic understanding of the region[11].

LLMs are breaking through language barriers

Historically, languages other than English, especially those not incorporated into LLMs, posed a significant barrier to crafting convincing spear phishing emails. This is changing  as highlighted by Darktraces research which uncovered a highly-sophisticated malware campaign attributed to the Chinese APT group Mustang Panda targeting the Royal Thai Police.

In addition to this, Darktrace / EMAIL observed Japanese language phishing attacks rise more than 1700% in the past year alone amongst Darktrace customers  from just 1000 in September 2024, to more than 17,000 at October 2025.

Scattered Spider (US/UK) is one of the most prolific threat actors globally and within APJ  conducting high-profile attacks on the retail, aviation and transport sectors. The group is known for its advanced social engineering techniques, and native English-speaking voice phishing methods targeting third-party vendors[12].

SilverFox (China) is repeatedly targeting organisations in Asia, specifically Taiwan, across multiple sectors, including finance, healthcare and retail[13]. The group is known to target Chinese-speaking individuals with malware baits crafted specifically for designated victim profiles to obtain sensitive high-value data.

North Korea uses cryptojacking malware to fund nuclear weapons program

Bluenoroff, part of the Lazarus Group (DPRK) has shifted its focus from banks to cryptocurrency exchanges in order to fund cover operations including its nuclear weapons and missiles programs[14]. Recent techniques include the exploitation of ClickFix technique in spear phishing.

About Darktrace

Darktrace is a global leader in AI for cybersecurity that keeps organizations ahead of the changing threat landscape every day. Founded in 2013, Darktrace provides the essential cybersecurity platform protecting organizations from unknown threats using its proprietary AI that learns from the unique patterns of life for each customer in real-time. The Darktrace ActiveAI Security Platform delivers a proactive approach to cyber resilience to secure the business across the entire digital estate  from network to cloud to email. It provides pre-emptive visibility into the customers security posture, transforms operations with a Cyber AI Analyst, and detects and autonomously responds to threats in real-time. Breakthrough innovations from our R&D teams in Cambridge, UK, and The Hague, Netherlands have resulted in over 200 patent applications filed. Darktraces platform and services are supported by over 2,300 employees around the world who protect nearly 10,000 customers across all major industries globally.

To learn more, visit https://www.darktrace.com.

[1] Darktrace proprietary research

2 https://cloud.google.com/blog/topics/threat-intelligence/adversarial-misuse-generative-ai

3 https://www.darktrace.com/blog/how-organizations-are-addressing-cloud-investigation-and-response

4 https://www.darktrace.com/resources/report-investigation-and-response-in-the-cloud

5 https://www.verizon.com/business/resources/reports/2024-dbir-data-breach-investigations-report.pdf

https://www.ibm.com/downloads/documents/us-en/131cf87b20b31c91

6 https://www.ibm.com/downloads/documents/us-en/131cf87b20b31c91

7 https://www.darktrace.com/resources/annual-threat-report-2024

8 https://www.cyber.gov.au/sites/default/files/2024-07/apt40-advisory-prc-mss-tradecraft-in-action.pdf

9 https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/cybersecurity-csa-cyberattacks-it-operational-technology-unc3886-josephine-teo-5264121

10 https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/06/tech/japan-port-ransomware-attack

11 https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/cybersecurity-advisories/aa24-207a

12 https://www.darktrace.com/blog/untangling-the-web-darktraces-investigation-of-scattered-spiders-evolving-tactics

13 https://westoahu.hawaii.edu/cyber/global-weekly-exec-summary/silver-fox-apt-attack-taiwan/

14 https://apt.securelist.com/apt/bluenoroff
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Should the U.S. and Russia resume nuclear testing?

The answer to that question must be a resounding "No." Yet President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin , eager to project strength, have raised fears that they may be moving to revive the dangerous practice.

While the significance of testing nuclear weapons dwindled over 60 years ago, the terrifying circumstances that brought that era to a close should remain top of mind, reminding leaders why using nuclear testing to gain a strategic advantage is a terrible idea.

Thanks to Hollywood , many audiences know something about the dawn of the nuclear age. Led by physicist J. Robert Oppenheimer , a crack team of eccentric geniuses housed at Los Alamos, New Mexico , built and tested the first atomic bomb in 1945. It led Oppenheimer to recall a line from the Hindu sacred text, The Bhagavad Gita: "Now I am become death, the destroyer of worlds."

Although the atomic scientists who followed Oppenheimer lacked his literary sensibilities, they took world-destroying quite seriously. Teams in the U.S. and the Soviet Union competed to build and test ever-larger bombs in a blatantly obvious effort at intimidating the other side.

The U.S. went first, forcing the indigenous people of Bikini Atoll to relocate so that it could detonate bombs in the Marshall Islands in 1946. Radioactive debris rained down on the sailors sent to watch the tests. They absorbed dangerous doses of radiation, as did many of the native islanders living in the area, inaugurating a multigenerational legacy of cancers and birth defects.

Nevada , where the military began above-ground tests in 1951, was no better. Here, too, the federal government confiscated land owned by indigenous peoples and placed soldiers far too close to the detonation sites. In subsequent decades, their bodies would be plagued by cancers and other maladies born of their fateful exposure.

Back in the Marshall Islands , the U.S. began testing a new generation of nuclear weapons that used conventional fission bombs to detonate a much larger, "fusion," or hydrogen bomb. These experiments went terribly awry during the infamous Castle Bravo test of 1954.

The bomb in question was supposed to generate the equivalent of five to six megatons of TNT(1). Thanks to some serious miscalculations, though, the explosion clocked in at 15 megatons, or 1,000 times the size of the bomb dropped on Hiroshima . The explosion sucked up 10 million tons of sand and pulverized coral, creating a massive fallout cloud that fell on islanders, U.S. military personnel, and even Japanese fishing vessels 80 miles east of the test site.

This was what historian Alex Wellerstein has described as "the greatest single radiological disaster in American history." It also holds the record of being the biggest nuclear test ever conducted by the U.S. And it might have remained the biggest test ever had it not been for the Soviet Union .

After World War II, the Communist nation worked desperately to build and test its own bomb, terrified of what might happen if it failed. Indeed, a Russian nuclear scientist who attended the Bikini test in 1946 claimed that the purpose of the demonstration had been "to frighten the Soviets."

Thanks to atomic spy Klaus Fuchs , the Soviets managed to detonate their first atomic weapon in 1949. Still, they spent much of the next decade playing catch-up, countering progressively larger tests with their own demonstrations. Premier Nikita Khrushchev , eager to pull ahead, approved a top-secret project to build the biggest nuclear weapon in human history. It was known as "Kuzma's mother," an allusion to a Russian idiom that basically means: "We'll show you!"

When completed in 1961, Kuzma's mother  also known as the Tsar Bomba or the King of Bombs  was the size of a school bus and weighed 25 tons. It was too big to fit into any of the Soviet bomber aircraft, so the military removed the bomb bay doors on a Tupolev TU-95 and strapped it to the bottom of the plane.

On Oct. 31, 1961 , the TU-95 left a Russian airfield bound for Novaya Zemlya, a collection of islands above the Arctic Circle ; a separate plane containing a film crew accompanied it. They departed not knowing if they would return home: authorities had given the planes a 50/50 chance of surviving the shock wave.

When they reached the target location, the bomber dropped its lethal package. The bomb, fitted with a parachute to slow its descent and give the planes time to escape, floated downward until it reached 4,000 meters before exploding.

The blast, which could be seen more than 1,000 kilometers away, registered at 57 megatons, 10 times more powerful than all the bombs and ordnance used in World War II. Had any human been within 62 miles of the epicenter (there weren't any), they would have been immediately vaporized or have suffered third-degree burns. The shock wave shattered windows 560 miles away.

The test inflamed Cold War tensions, and a year later, the world came dangerously close to complete annihilation during the Cuban Missile Crisis. In its wake, saner heads began to prevail, and the U.S. and Soviet Union signed the Partial Test Ban Treaty in 1963, which moved nuclear testing underground, where it became less of a provocation. A complete test ban followed 30 years later, aided by the fact that computer modeling has effectively made nuclear testing obsolete.

Trump and Putin now seem inclined to take us back to the bad old days of nuclear testing out of some misguided belief that it's an effective way to assert dominance over adversaries. History already shows how that story ends.

(1) A megaton is the equivalent of one million tons of TNT.

(COMMENT, BELOW)

Stephen Mihm, a professor of history at the University of Georgia, is coauthor of "Crisis Economics: A Crash Course in the Future of Finance."

Previously:




Insight

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Twenty-two years ago, the devils came on horseback. Now they come on pickup trucks mounted with machine guns, funded by gold and assisted by drones. Now, the devils fight against the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) rather than for it, and they're doing so with more efficient tools. But if you're a civilian in Darfur, the outcome is the same: genocide.

The conflict in Sudan today differs somewhat from the war in Darfur in the early 2000s, when the government in Khartoum was the instigator and the Janjaweed militia did its dirty work. Today's war pits the SAF, led by Gen. Abdel-Fattah Burhan, against the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), led by Mohammed Hamdan "Hemedti" Dagalo. But, in Darfur, history just seems to be repeating itself, since the RSF is little more than the rebranded Janjaweed, and Hemedti was one of their commanders.

Like then, the violence is gut-wrenching. The United Nations Human Rights Council released a report from an independent fact-finding mission that found that the RSF "carried out large-scale and systematic attacks on civilians," including mass killings, murder, torture, rape, sexual slavery and "destruction of essential survival objects." The report called out the SAF for human rights violations as well, but of a less sadistic variety.

Notably, this report was released before the latest horrors were unleashed on the population of el-Fasher, the last major city of Darfur to succumb to the RSF when it fell in the final days of October.

One need not imagine the atrocities. The rebels helpfully documented themselves and plastered it across social media. Smiling killers cheer on the violence, some proudly proclaiming it genocide as they display and celebrate their executions in action. Women and children are among the victims. Satellite images add to the picture, with piles of bodies and pools of blood so large they are visible from space. None of the guilty in the videos bother to hide their faces or RSF badges. The RSF reportedly shot and killed 460 patients and family members at a maternity hospital, the last remaining functioning hospital in the city. About 86,000 people have managed to flee, but that means about two-thirds of the population didn't.

This nightmare came after 18 months of siege. The RSF surrounded el-Fasher with a 35-mile sand wall to block food and humanitarian aid from entering the city and people from escaping it. Medical teams in the refugee camp at Tawila 43 miles away call the malnutrition rates of survivors " staggering."

Since the beginning of this siege, experts and Sudanese activists alike have warned of this outcome. Nothing about this is surprising, except the total lack of attention the world has paid to it.

Joe Biden's administration was more concerned than the Donald Trump administration has been so far, but that didn't translate to real pressure on the warring parties. At least then the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) was negotiating ways to deliver more aid.

It's all a far cry from the international reaction to the last Darfur genocide, though, when Congress and the U.N. Security Council (UNSC) were frequently engaged, and international partners worked with multilateral institutions to negotiate ceasefires and peacekeeping missions. The UNSC then even referred Sudan to the International Criminal Court (ICC). In contrast, the UNSC has barely commented on this war in two years, and the last full congressional committee hearing was a year and a half ago. Even with high levels of attention before, the Darfur genocide lasted years and killed an estimated 300,000 people. That doesn't bode well for an end to this nightmare.

Sudan proves once more that the mantra, "Never again," only means: "Not until next time." But the shame of this genocide is unique, since the offenders include many of the exact same people as the last one. If Hemedti and his cohort were behind bars from their last genocide, they'd be a lot less likely to be leading one today.

Impunity has driven cycles of violence in Sudan for generations. The ICC is already investigating this and many other atrocities of this war, but there is slim hope that any perpetrators will pay a real price. Just last month, the ICC issued the first and only conviction for crimes committed in Darfur 21 years ago. This only occurred because the Janjaweed leader turned himself in after Sudan's military coup in 2020. He apparently thought international justice was his best option, since he expected the coup leaders would kill him. It's no wonder RSF rebels feel at liberty to advertise their crimes.

For these cycles of violence to end, the perpetrators must pay a price, but so, too, must those who bankroll and support them. In this case, that's the United Arab Emirates, a close American security partner. Many other outside actors are involved in Sudan, but the UAE is the most consequential. Without its support, particularly its market for billions of dollars in black-market gold, the RSF would struggle to maintain the fight at all.

The U.S. government declared that the RSF was committing genocide in Darfur back in January, but that did little to meaningfully change America's approach to the conflict. It's past time for the United States to use its influence on the UAE to help stop this war, which has already killed hundreds of thousands and forced more than 12 million to flee their homes. If Trump wants a Nobel Peace Prize, this is where he could find it.

Elizabeth Shackelford is a senior adviser with the Institute for Global Affairs at Eurasia Group and a foreign affairs columnist for the Chicago Tribune. She is also a distinguished lecturer with the Dickey Center at Dartmouth College. She was previously a U.S. diplomat and is the author of"The Dissent Channel: American Diplomacy in a Dishonest Age."

Previously:

10/29/24 Russia's shadow war against the West is more dangerous than you think 02/20/24 Sudan falls apart while the world looks away 01/04/24 For a better foreign policy in 2024, let's be more like Taylor Swift 04/23/24 Turkey and the power of controlling the narrative 04/25/23 A bipartisan effort aims to stop arming human rights abusers like Saudi Arabia 02/27/23 Ukraine's outsized reliance on the US is a risk for the world 02/13/23 Is China really scarier than Zuckerberg? 02/28/22 If Putin doesn't fear Western sanctions, his cronies might

(COMMENT, BELOW)
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The world has, for the most part, welcomed the trade truce between the U.S. and China . Exporters, in particular, are hoping for a period of quiet that will allow them to adjust to a new world with higher tariffs and more restrictions.

Yet for workers and companies across the developing world, the possibility of a return to a status quo ante isn't an entirely comforting notion, either. A new normal that preserves China's dominance of global trade hurts them far more than it does the U.S. or other Western nations.

A new index from Bloomberg Intelligence that examines the export potential of various major economies explains why. China is still at the top of the table, and there's a big gap between it and the closest competitor, India . Most emerging markets, according to the index, only marginally outperform developed economies.

This is not how it's supposed to go. As labor costs in China converge with higher-productivity markets, it should look like a less attractive source of goods. Trade-driven sectors should start moving out of the country  or, in the index's terms, other developing economies should demonstrate greater or at least comparable export potential.

Instead, China's lead in other factors  from energy costs and logistics efficiency to straightforward technical know-how  is so great that it still has no peers.

It's impossible to overstate how unusual this is in world history. Various countries and regions have had their moment dominating world trade  Britain , the U.S. , Japan  before stepping aside and letting others grow. As they became richer, they moved to different slots in the supply chain, allowing lower-value goods to be made in places with reduced costs.

China , instead, continues to dominate every rung of the supply chain, from low- to high-margin manufacturing. According to calculations by the economists Arvind Subramanian and Shoumitro Chatterjee , three-quarters of the country's enormous trade surplus with the world continues to come from goods that are manufactured using relatively basic skills, and it still has over half the global market share in such sectors.

Other estimates, with a more restrictive definition of low-skills production, come out a little smaller: Harvard's Gordon Hanson assessed in 2020 that China's share of labor-intensive manufacturing was about one-third.

Either way, this is an anomaly. This market share doesn't fit with the other things we know about that economy  that its working-age population is declining, and average wages are now several times those in its struggling competitors.

There could be several reasons for the emergence of this inconsistency. A persistently undervalued currency could account for it, as could hidden subsidies for inputs like energy.

But part of the reason is that Beijing has deliberately intervened in the natural process of global development. Because the corollary of one country's economy growing and a second, poorer peer overtaking it in terms of export potential is that the savers, investors and corporations of the first country start moving capital and technology to the second.

This is how manufacturing spread across the developed world and the Asian tigers. In the heyday of British economic hegemony, London's bankers financed half of the world's foreign investment. A large proportion of American railroad bonds were denominated in sterling. By the time the U.S. dominated trade a century later, it in turn was the origin of almost half of outward investment globally. And during its boom years in the 1980s, Japan's share of world investment overtook America's.

This is what happens when companies in trade-surplus nations are allowed to freely plan for the future and find the best returns on their capital. That isn't how Beijing allows its economy to work, however. What it earns from trade is directed instead at creating excess capacity at home, or toward long-gestation projects meant to further embed China at the center of global manufacturing.

This means that Chinese companies get a low return on their savings, and its savers and pensioners are poorer than they should be. But it also means that workers throughout the rest of the developing world are cut off from their potential. They need Chinese companies to use their technological skills and hoarded capital to build factories that would train and employ them.

But China's leaders aren't allowing that to happen. They want to stay at the top of that export potential table, and don't care if, as a consequence, the developing world is deprived of its destiny. If Beijing has its way, nobody else will ever get rich.

Mihir Sharma is a Bloomberg Opinion columnist. A senior fellow at the Observer Research Foundation in New Delhi , he is author of "Restart: The Last Chance for the Indian Economy."

(COMMENT, BELOW)
Report on Religious Freedom in Turkey

The Greek Orthodox Sumela Monastery, founded around 386 AD, is only permitted to have one Divine Liturgy a year. Rome -- Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) has released the 2025 edition of its Religious Freedom in the World Report, a comprehensive survey covering 196 countries and assessing the legal and social conditions affecting the practice of religion. The biennial study draws on field research, partner organizations and public documentation to track how governments and non-state actors influence religious life, focusing on developments from January 2023 to December 2024.

The report underscores the uneven protection of the right to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, noting that more than half of the global population lives in places where serious or very serious violations occur. ACN emphasized the report's broad, non-governmental scope and its aim to provide a factual overview of global trends, categorizing countries according to the severity of restrictions faced by both recognized and unrecognized religious communities.

The chapter on Turkey, covering developments between January 2023 and December 2024 with some early-2025 updates, describes how structural features of the Turkish state and a string of policies and local actions have combined to limit the religious freedom of non-Sunni communities. The report noted that while Article 24 of the constitution nominally bans discrimination on religious grounds, state institutions such as the Presidency of Religious Affairs (Diyanet) exercise broad control over religious life and receive exceptionally large public funding -- TR130.1 billion was requested for Diyanet in the 2025 budget proposal -- an allocation the report says outstrips budgets for several ministries and underlines the outsized role of the state in shaping religious practice.

Compulsory Sunni-Based Education and Restrictive Minority Status

Education emerged as a central fault line in the report. ACN recalled that under the 1982 constitution, religious instruction in state schools is compulsory and confined to Sunni Islam. Exemption procedures remain narrow and, in practice, are available primarily to students who are Christian or Jewish, leaving Alevis and other groups effectively unable to opt out. Critics interviewed by ACN argued that the expansion of religious instruction and recent initiatives to place imams and "spiritual counsellors" in schools signal an ongoing "Islamization" of public education that undermines secular guarantees.

Legal status and property rights for non-Muslim communities also drew scrutiny. The report pointed to Ankara's restrictive reading of the 1923 Treaty of Lausanne as the reason only Armenians, Greeks, and Jews enjoy recognized minority status -- while other communities, including Assyrian, Catholics, and Protestants, lack group legal personality and face obstacles to owning property or operating institutions except through foundations and associations. Regulatory changes governing minority foundations, reintroduced board elections, and new eligibility criteria have, the report contends, increasingly become tools for state oversight rather than remedies for long-standing grievances.

Attacks on Worship Sites, Antisemitic Rhetoric, and Administrative Barriers

Violence and intimidation documented by ACN reinforced those structural concerns. The report highlighted a series of troubling incidents, including: a deadly armed attack at the Church of Santa Maria in Istanbul in January 2024, for which Islamist militants claimed responsibility; repeated antisemitic acts and hateful rhetoric that intensified after the October 2023 Israel-Gaza war; vandalism of the Greek Orthodox Cemetery of St. Eleftherios in August 2024; and the temporary closure of the only active church in Bursa -- the French Church -- on disputed earthquake-safety grounds. In several cases, the report records administrative hurdles, court rulings, or state decisions that left minority communities feeling unprotected or sidelined.

The chapter places particular emphasis on the unresolved status of the Halki Theological Seminary, closed by the state in 1971. While the Ecumenical Patriarchate expressed cautious optimism in 2024 about a possible reopening -- a development the report calls "rare and positive" -- ACN stressed that decades of closure have deprived Orthodox Christians in Turkey of institutional capacity to train clergy, a deficiency that raises broader questions about compliance with international minority-rights commitments.

Heritage Conversions and Tight State Oversight

The report also flagged the re-designation of historic religious sites as sites of majority worship. In May 2024, the reconsecration of the Church of the Holy Saviour, also known as the Chora Church, as a mosque -- and the subsequent introduction of visitor fees and restricted display of Christian iconography -- is cited as an example of how cultural heritage decisions carry profound implications for minority communities' sense of belonging and security.

ACN does acknowledge some positive developments. These include the prosecution of some vandals, court decisions that support minority claims, and limited legal recognition for some Protestant and Latin Catholic groups through their associations. Even so, the broader picture is bleak. The report argues that discriminatory legislation, selective treaty interpretation, the heavy concentration of resources within the Diyanet, and a social environment marked by recurring hate speech and targeted vandalism have together created a negative outlook for religious freedom in Turkey.

Protecting Religious Freedom Requires Structural Reform, Not Symbolic Promises

Human-rights advocates quoted in the report warned that the issue extends beyond faith communities to the health of Turkey's pluralist, secular tradition. "When education, property rights, and the training of clergy are subject to political calculus, minorities become collateral damage," the report paraphrased, urging Ankara to translate constitutional guarantees into practice and to align domestic rules with the Council of Europe and other international standards it references.

As Turkey navigates economic pressures, regional turmoil, and a fraught domestic political landscape, ACN's assessment will add to scrutiny from European institutions and minority groups that press for concrete reforms. For religious communities in Turkey, hope for meaningful change rests less on headline promises and more on structural shifts. The reopening of seminaries, reforming foundation regulations, ensuring exemption rights in education, and curbing incendiary public rhetoric are all steps that the ACN argues are necessary if the country is to reverse the trend it documented.
Iraqi Archaeologists Find Relic in Ancient Assyrian City

The ancient Assyrian capital of Nimrud is speaking again. From beneath a landscape fractured by modern war, archaeologists have uncovered what may be the clearest surviving image of Ishtar, the Mesopotamian goddess of love and war, etched into a star-shaped stone fragment buried in the ruins of her temple.

Nearly a decade after ISIS militants detonated explosives across Nimrud's archaeological core--leveling temples, palaces, and millennia-old reliefs--the new discovery is offering not just rare material evidence of an ancient deity but a renewed path for cultural recovery.

The excavation team, composed of researchers from the Iraqi State Board of Antiquities and Heritage and the University of Pennsylvania Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology, made the find earlier this year as part of their ongoing work to re-excavate and stabilize what remains of the site. The image of Ishtar, emerging from the wreckage ISIS tried to erase, carries both archaeological and symbolic weight.

The Return to Nimrud Nimrud, once the imperial capital of Assyria under kings like Ashurnasirpal II and Adad-Nirari III, has been at the center of Mesopotamian studies for over 170 years. First excavated in the 1840s, the site revealed monumental palaces, early examples of cuneiform writing, and some of the most iconic stone reliefs ever found in the Near East.

That legacy came under siege in 2015, when ISIS occupied the region and launched a systematic campaign to destroy pre-Islamic sites. Bulldozers, barrel bombs, and hammers were deployed against Nimrud's Northwest Palace, lamassu statues, and temple complexes in what UNESCO condemned as "a war crime" and "cultural cleansing."

In 2022, after the site was secured by Iraqi forces, the joint Iraqi-American team was able to re-enter the site and resume excavations, focusing on the heavily damaged Temple of Ishtar and a nearby palace built by Adad-Nirari III (r. 810--783 BCE). It was there, amid scorched temple debris, that they found a stone stele fragment featuring the goddess Ishtar depicted inside a radiant starburst--her most recognizable symbol.

"This is the first unequivocal depiction of the goddess as Ishtar Sharrrat-niphi, a divine aspect of the goddess associated with the rising of the planet Venus, the 'morning star'," said Dr. Michael Danti, archaeologist at the University of Pennsylvania, in a statement published by the University of Pennsylvania.

The image aligns with long-standing Mesopotamian associations between Ishtar and the planet Venus, but this representation--inside a starburst, carved on a monumental stele--marks a first for the site.

Luxury in the Ruins The excavation didn't stop at the temple. Adjacent to the stele, the team resumed work in the ruined palace of Adad-Nirari III, where new evidence of Neo-Assyrian opulence surfaced amid the rubble. Two colossal stone column bases, finely worked and still in place, suggest the palace's entrance once featured towering ornamental structures.

Inside the palace, archaeologists recovered fragments of ivory inlays and ostrich eggshells, both luxury materials imported via trade routes that stretched across the Middle East and into North Africa. These items, according to the excavation team, reflect both the economic reach and aesthetic sophistication of Assyria's ruling class in the early first millennium BCE.

Another intriguing discovery inside the throne room was a stone basin, possibly used with a wheeled brazier for portable heating--a rare example of functional engineering for climate control in elite spaces.

Though few structures remain intact, the spatial layout of the palace and the distribution of high-status objects point to a built environment calibrated for performance, ceremony, and political display.

Cultural Recovery in the Age of Loss In the broader context of Iraqi heritage recovery, the Ishtar find is part of a larger shift. It reflects growing investment--both local and international--in restoring and reinterpreting sites previously thought lost. Digital mapping and photogrammetry are being used alongside traditional fieldwork to create permanent records and aid in long-term site protection.

The Penn Museum's Iraq Heritage Stabilization Program, led by Dr. Danti, has been instrumental in training local teams, clearing explosive remnants, and stabilizing damaged architecture. Their work at Nimrud aligns with parallel initiatives across northern Iraq to rebuild cultural infrastructure in the wake of war.

But the symbolic power of Ishtar's reappearance goes beyond the technical. At a site that extremists tried to erase, a goddess associated with both love and war reasserts her presence--through stone, through time, and now, through digital preservation.
He spent his youth memorizing lungs. That was how he learned chest X-rays, not by chasing abnormalities, but by studying thousands of perfectly normal films until his eyes could sense when something was ever so slightly wrong. If you dont know normal, he would tell residents, youll never understand abnormal.

He was a chest physician, not a radiologist, yet his skill with chest imaging became legendary. At Taipei Veterans General Hospital, he was the undefeated champion of chest X-ray interpretation, the clinician other clinicians turned to when a film contained a shadow too subtle for most eyes.

After retirement, he continued serving: part-time clinics, community volunteering, and teaching whenever someone asked. Medicine, to him, was not employment. It was responsibility. It was memory. That is why what happened recently shook him so deeply.

He opened a chest X-ray on a new AI-based viewing system. A bright red dot covered the area he needed to see.

The AI had flagged a suspected consolidation. Fine. A suggestion is acceptable. The problem was that the overlay could not be moved, removed, or dimmed. He tried every menu. Nothing worked.

The nurse apologized. The system doesnt let us change it. And the AI-generated report prints automatically. The doctor just signs.

A man who once taught generations to see subtle pathology now found himself unable to view the raw anatomy beneath an algorithms guess. The film was no longer his to interpret. If I cant see the original, he said quietly, how can I know whats true?

The deeper pain came later.

He observed younger physicians reading films. They did not methodically scan the costophrenic angles. They did not examine retrocardiac spaces. They did not trace bronchovascular markings. Their eyes went straight to the red dot.

He felt an ache he did not expect at this stage of life. Maybe Im old, he said. Or maybe medicine really has changed.

Then he added something he had never told anyone before: Judgment comes from memory, correct memory. If your first memory is a shortcut, your future decisions will always be warped.

Cognitive science explains his discomfort.

Automation bias makes clinicians accept algorithm suggestions too easily.

Anchoring bias fixes the eye on the first highlighted region.

Selective attention hijacking narrows the search prematurely.

Cognitive offloading weakens skill over time.

But deeper than these theories is the truth he spent a lifetime teaching: Radiologic mastery is built on internalizing normality, not chasing abnormality.

That is the correct bias of medicine: a bias toward accuracy, a bias toward anatomy, a bias toward truth. Not a bias toward a machines first guess.

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Outside the hospital, companion AIs now remember users routines, speech, and emotions. Inside the hospital, imaging AI begins to remember its own overlays and predictions. The machines memory grows stronger. The clinicians memory grows weaker. That imbalance frightened him far more than the red dot itself.

He does not resist technology. He has lived through analog films, PACS transitions, digital archives, and speech-to-text systems. He welcomes tools that expand the human eye. But he will not accept a system that prevents the human eye from seeing.

For medicine to stay medicine, he said, the physician must see first. The AI may comment second. Not the other way around.

The solution is simple.

Physicians must always be able to view the raw image.

Overlays must be optional, adjustable, and removable.

AI impressions must remain separate from clinical impressions.

Clinicians must retain the autonomy to disagree without friction.

A red dot must never replace a lifetime of expertise.

He still volunteers. Still teaches. Still reads films with the same careful dignity. But when he walks into the reading room and sees younger doctors looking only at the overlay, he feels a quiet sadness. Not because he is aging. But because medicine may be forgetting something essential: Clinical memory must be built on truth, not shortcuts.

And no AI system (no matter how advanced) should ever stand between a physician and the image that needs to be seen.

Gerald Kuo, a doctoral student in the Graduate Institute of Business Administration at Fu Jen Catholic University in Taiwan, specializes in health care management, long-term care systems, AI governance in clinical and social care settings, and elder care policy. He is affiliated with the Home Health Care Charity Association and maintains a professional presence on Facebook, where he shares updates on research and community work. Kuo helps operate a day-care center for older adults, working closely with families, nurses, and community physicians. His research and practical efforts focus on reducing administrative strain on clinicians, strengthening continuity and quality of elder care, and developing sustainable service models through data, technology, and cross-disciplinary collaboration. He is particularly interested in how emerging AI tools can support aging clinical workforces, enhance care delivery, and build greater trust between health systems and the public.
It started with a phone call.

Doc, my CEO said, do you know this doctor?

I asked why.

He wrote a prescription for a drug that cost $250,000 for one course.

You must mean $25,000, I said.

No, she replied. The insurer already paid two hundred fifty thousand dollars.

I assumed it had to be a miracle therapy, some one-in-a-million life-saving treatment. Then she told me the name: Acthar Gel. I nearly fell out of my chair. Acthar: ACTH, adrenocorticotropic hormone, the same pituitary extract doctors used in the 1950s. And yet here it was, sold as a specialty biologic for multiple-sclerosis relapses, lupus, and nephrotic syndrome, for a quarter-million dollars a course. As I dug deeper into its history, regulatory loopholes, and pricing gymnastics, I found something darker than corporate greed. This was legitimized corruption: polished, credentialed, and woven into the fabric of modern medicine. A rot so deep it would put a glioblastoma to shame.

Birth and death of a drug

Acthar (repository corticotropin injection, ACTH) was first approved by the FDA in 1952. Back then, if a drug was safe, it was approved; proof of efficacy wasnt required. The 1962 Kefauver-Harris Amendments later demanded proof of effectiveness. Acthar Gel was a simple pituitary extract suspended in gelatin for slow release. It was cheap, reasonably effective, and widely used through the 1950s-70s for MS relapses and inflammatory diseases. By the early 1980s, synthetic corticosteroids (prednisone, methylprednisolone, and dexamethasone) made ACTH obsolete. By 1995, Acthars rights landed with Rhone-Poulenc Rorer (later Sanofi-Aventis). Demand had vanished. In 2001, they sold it to a tiny biotech, Questcor Pharmaceuticals, for $100,000. At the time, a vial cost about $40.

The resurrection

Questcor discovered that Acthars 1952 FDA approval was still valid, so no new trials were required. They didnt need to invest in science, safety, or efficacy, just marketing. A few small, unblinded open-label studies followed: uncontrolled, self-funded, and published in second-tier journals. A few dozen patients, a few glowing graphs, and suddenly Acthar was reborn as a specialty biologic. The price exploded from $40 to $34,000 a vial. Then came the masterstroke: the biologic loophole. Because Acthar was an old, animal-derived extract rather than a modern synthetic molecule, Questcor could classify it as a biologic, shielding it from generic or biosimilar competition. That regulatory label justified astronomical pricing under the pretense of complexity. To seal the monopoly, Questcor bought and buried Synacthen, the only potential synthetic ACTH rival. An obsolete hormone became a protected monopoly. In 2014, Irish pharma giant Mallinckrodt bought Questcor for $5.6 billion. The Federal Trade Commission later fined Mallinckrodt $100 million for antitrust violations, and the Department of Justice charged it with kickbacks and Medicaid rebate fraud. Mallinckrodt filed for bankruptcy twice, paid pennies on those penalties, and still sells Acthar at the same astronomical price. Ironically, in 2021 ANI Pharmaceuticals re-launched a supposed competitor, Purified Cortrophin Gel. In a normal market, prices would collapse, but here they didnt budge. Both drugs remain stuck around $40,000 per vial.

The worlds most expensive obsolete drug

To grasp the absurdity, compare Acthar with true biologics. Drugs like Keytruda revolutionized medicine; they are complex, engineered molecules that took years of research, billions in investment, and massive clinical trials. A single dose of Keytruda, one of the worlds most advanced cancer immunotherapies, costs about $10,000. Acthar, by contrast, is a 1950s pig-pituitary extract. No recombinant technology. No modern trials. No innovation. Yet each vial sells for $30,000-40,000, though it probably costs a few hundred dollars to make.

Why doctors prescribed it

ACTH and steroids both raise cortisol. When IV Solu-Medrol became standard, there was no rational reason left to use ACTH. Questcor recruited key opinion leaders with grants, speaking fees, and advisory roles. Academic centers, hungry for industry funding, repeated the same slides written by corporate marketing teams. Even respected journals published ghostwritten reviews that recycled the same unfounded claims. Physicians, busy, trusting, and lulled by peer authority, parroted the rhetoric without asking if it made physiological sense. The result: a profession that recited data it never examined and prescribed drugs it didnt understand. The shepherds were bought; the flock followed. This wasnt ignorance; it was intellectual surrender. The tragedy of Acthar isnt just corporate manipulation. Its how willingly the medical profession became its amplifier. When a profession stops reasoning, it doesnt just practice bad medicine; it practices mindless medicine. Worse, it practices soulless medicine.

Where is the outrage?

This isnt just a pricing scandal; its an indictment of everyone who looked away. How did a 1950s pituitary extract become a $40,000 biologic, and not one major institution slam the brakes? Where were the neurologists, rheumatologists, and nephrologists who should have said: This makes no physiological sense. I will not prescribe this drug. Where were the academic leaders who claim to champion evidence-based medicine? Where were the insurers, the regulators, the professional societies? The silence, or rather, the complicity, is staggering. Major MS centers and university hospitals knew, or should have known, that Acthar offers no proven benefit over cheap, high-dose steroids. The data are public. The mechanism is obvious. The conclusion is unavoidable. Yet industry money flowed through educational partnerships, advisory boards, and research grants that shaped the opinions of key opinion leaders. A handful of influential voices lent legitimacy just by standing on a podium. Thats not medicine; thats moral sedation. If our most elite physicians can be convinced that a crude ACTH extract deserves to be the worlds most expensive biologic, can we still call them scientists? And if they act knowingly for profit, or unknowingly out of intellectual surrender, do they still belong to a profession that calls itself noble? This isnt gullibility. Its decay: of mind and soul. When clinicians stop reasoning, they forfeit the right to call themselves scientists.

And if those entrusted to guard human health cant guard their own intellect, they shouldnt be trusted with anyones health.

Bharat Desai is an internal medicine and pulmonary physician.
"New Chinese Style" apparel weaves tradition into modern wardrobes

Xinhua) 08:38, November 19, 2025

JINAN, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- In Zhang Mengting's boutique in Qingdao, east China's Shandong Province, an overseas tourist carefully examined a handmade silk dress crafted by Yunnan artisans. What began as a casual stroll along the coast ended with her purchasing the dress.

At Zhang's store, historic textiles like Yun and Song brocades merge with modern cuts, attracting both domestic and international customers.

This success is a testament to the growing allure of "New Chinese Style" fashion in Shandong, the birthplace of Confucius, where such contemporary designs are revitalizing traditional Chinese aesthetics.

"Many young people initially perceived traditional elements as outdated," Zhang said. "But once they try them on, they're often surprised by how well they suit them."

She recalled one skeptical customer who, after trying on the outfits, purchased three pieces on her second visit and now regularly shops online.

"In fashion, cultural confidence isn't about slogans; it's demonstrated through the clothing choices people make," said Zhang, emphasizing that the vitality of any clothing culture ultimately lies in its public appeal.

Since opening their first store in 2023, Zhang and her business partner have expanded to eight franchises across the coastal city.

This trend is also making its way into corporate environments. When Elink Group, headquartered in Qingdao, was selecting new uniforms to celebrate its 50th anniversary, employees overwhelmingly chose the "New Chinese Style" over Western options like British casual wear.

"It reflected a collective awakening to cultural identity," said a company representative.

The shift was anticipated a decade ago by the group's fashion company, which established a platform to transition "New Chinese Style" from runways to functional workwear.

The company focuses on "functional translation of cultural symbols," as demonstrated in its projects for the cosmetic brand Pechoin and China United Airlines.

For the cosmetics brand, designers incorporated mandarin collars and knot buttons using eco-friendly fabrics; for the airline, they created a uniform that merges a versatile, wrinkle-resistant design with an Eastern aesthetic.

In Shandong's Caoxian County, the heart of China's Hanfu industry, innovation continues to flourish. Among the growing wave of young designers drawn to the county is Chen Long, who has come to launch his business and bring his creative vision to life.

Chen moved to Caoxian last year and purchased a clothing production line. He has since introduced anti-static conductive threads and added practical features such as pockets to traditional garments.

"Here, I can turn a design idea into a wearable piece within a day thanks to the local supply chain's efficiency," Chen said.

From tourism souvenirs to corporate uniforms, "New Chinese Style" has evolved from niche interest to mainstream statement, proving, as Zhang puts it, that "cultural confidence isn't just claimed, but worn."

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Report on Religious Freedom in Iraq

Under Iraq's 2005 constitution,[1] Islam is the official state religion and a "source of legislation". According to Article 2(1), nothing may contradict Islam, the principles of democracy, or constitutionally recognised rights and freedoms. Article 2(2) provides that the Islamic identity of most Iraqis and the religious rights of Christians, Yazidis, and Sabean-Mandeans are equally protected.

Article 4(1) states: "Arabic and Kurdish are the two official languages of Iraq", while members of other language groups have the right "to educate their children in their mother tongue, such as Turkmen, Assyrian, and Armenian, [. . .] in government educational institutions in accordance with educational guidelines, or in any other language in private educational institutions."

Racism, terrorism, and takfirism (accusing other Muslims of apostasy) are prohibited under Article 7. Article 10 affirms the State's duty to maintain and protect "holy shrines and religious sites" and uphold the right to use them freely for the "practice of rituals".

Equality before the law is guaranteed under Article 14, "without discrimination based on gender, race, ethnicity, nationality, origin, colour, religion, sect, belief or opinion, or economic or social status." Under Article 37 (2) the State is bound to protect individuals "from intellectual, political and religious coercion."

According to Article 41, personal status is regulated by law according to the various "religions, sects, beliefs, or choices". Article 42 guarantees "[f]reedom of thought, conscience, and belief".

Under Article 43, Iraqis are free to practise their religious rites, manage their religious affairs, institutions and endowments (waqf), as "regulated by law". Likewise, the State guarantees and protects places of worship under Article 43(2).

According to Article 372 of the 1969 Penal Code of Iraq: "The following persons are punishable by a period of detention not exceeding 3 years or by a fine not exceeding 300 dinars: (1) Any person who attacks the creed of a religious minority or pours scorn on its religious practices. (2) Any person who wilfully disrupts a religious ceremony, festival or meeting of a religious minority or who wilfully prevents or obstructs the performance of such ritual. (3) Any person who wrecks, destroys, defaces or desecrates a building set aside for the ceremonies of a religious minority or symbol or anything that is sacred to it. (4) Any person who prints or publishes a book sacred to a religious minority and deliberately misspells the texts so that the meaning of the text is altered or who makes light of its tenets or teachings. (5) Any person who publicly insults a symbol or a person who constitutes an object of sanctification, worship, or reverence to a religious minority. (6) Any person who publicly imitates a religious ceremony or celebration with intent to deceive."[2]

Muslims are prohibited from converting to other religions under personal status laws and regulations. Article 1(2) of the Personal Status law implicitly prohibits conversion by placing the act under the jurisdiction of Shari'a (Islamic law).[3]

According to Article 17 of Iraq's Personal Status Law No. 188/1959, Muslim men may marry non-Muslim women who belong to a People of the Book (Christian, Jewish, Sabean-Mandaean), while Muslim women are prohibited from marrying non-Muslims.[4] Children with one Muslim parent, including converts, are considered ipso facto Muslim.[5]

By law, nine of the 329 seats in the Council of Representatives (lower house of parliament) are reserved for members of minority groups: five seats for Christians from the governorates of Baghdad, Nineveh, Kirkuk, Erbil, and Dohuk; and one seat each for Yazidis, Sabean Mandaeans, Shabaks and Feyli Kurds.

In the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI), 11 of the 111 parliamentary seats were previously reserved for religious and ethnic minorities.[6] In February 2024, the Federal Supreme Court of Iraq ruled that the article in the KRI's election law concerning minority quotas was "unconstitutional."[7] In May 2024, the Court reinstated five quota seats for Christians and Turkmen, resulting in a net loss of seats and the continued exclusion of other groups.[8]

The KRI parliamentary elections in October 2024 prompted objections from Assyrians over the redistribution of quota seats in governorates with smaller Christian populations. Some members of the community also criticised the presence of what they described as token Christian candidates running with Muslim-majority parties.[9]

Some Christians reported that officials of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) refused to resolve claims over embezzled properties, allowed militias to harass Christians at checkpoints, and prevented Christian farmers from transporting supplies between villages.[10] Some Assyrians also expressed concern over a potential KRG plan to build a dam in the Nahla Valley, which could endanger indigenous sites and monuments and displace Christian residents.

Baha'ism, Zoroastrianism, and the Kaka'i (Yarsanism) religions are banned at the federal level. However, all three religions are legal in the KRI,[11] even though federal law prohibits their practice and imposes prison sentences of up to ten years.[12] According to the US Department of State, the ban is not enforced.[13]

When applying for an identity card, Iraqis must declare their religion, even though the information is not included in the document. As a result, members of unrecognised faiths cannot obtain civil documentation under their religion. Without an identity card, they cannot access many basic services.[14] Since marriage, divorce and inheritance are governed by personal status law -- and none exists for unrecognised religions -- Baha'is, Zoroastrians and Kaka'is cannot register their marriage, and their children are effectively non-citizens.[15]

Incidents and developments

In January 2023, Sunni Sheikh Abdulrazaq al-Saadi from the Anbar governorate stated that the construction of a Christian Chaldean church in the ancient city of Ur in Dhi Qar was "catastrophic and against the teachings of the Qur'an". Instead, he proposed converting the church into a cultural centre under the supervision of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Antiquities.[16]

In February 2023, Bishop Bahzad Mziri of the Anabaptist Church in the city of Duhok faced a legal complaint over a Facebook post about Mohammed, the Prophet of Islam, which was deemed insulting and derogatory. Bishop Mziri apologised, claiming that his account had been hacked.[17] He was later put on trial but was acquitted.[18]

In March 2023, protests erupted in the town of Baghdeda (also known as Qaraqosh) in the al-Hamdaniya District of the Nineveh Plains, where the local Christian population resisted an attempted takeover by the Kataib Babiliyoun (KB) militia, the 50th Brigade of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF). The apparent cause of the clash was an effort by KB Commander Osama al-Kildani to take control of a base belonging to the Emergency Response Unit of the Nineveh Plains Protection Units (NPU), a Christian regiment of around 500 local men.[19] In January 2024, Chaldean Patriarch Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako called for the withdrawal of militias -- including those belonging to the Babililyoun movement -- from the Nineveh Plains and their replacement by regular army troops and federal police.[20]

In March 2023, the Sunni Iraqi Association of Muslim Scholars accused the General Authority of the Shi'a Al-Askari Shrine of seizing the ninth-century Sunni Great Mosque in the city of Samarra and the associated school, renaming the mosque to "Saheb Al-Amr" under the pretext of restoring its dome. The association described this as "another dangerous step in the project of systematic seizure of Islamic endowments in Iraq, and the imposition of sectarian tutelage with the power of military force".[21]

That same month, representatives of religious and ethnic minorities, together with representatives of Iraq's government and parliament, met at a conference in Baghdad organised by the World Council of Churches (WCC), to discuss challenges to inclusive citizenship. Speakers from the Kaka'i and Zoroastrian community stated that they remain unrecognised legally in a country where they are Indigenous.[22]

In December 2023, Masrour Barzani, Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG), met with a Kaka'i delegation led by religious leader Sayed Rahim Sayed Azim. Both sides stressed the need for unity and peaceful coexistence among Iraq's various communities, both in KRI and across the country.[23]

In April 2023, the Iraqi government launched the al-Syriania television channel to help preserve the Syriac language spoken by Christians. The channel employs around 40 staff and offers a variety of programming, including films, art and history.[24]

In May 2023, the Christian Affairs Department at the Minority Faith Communities Endowment Office began collecting data to create a digital database of Christian communities. The data includes geographic distribution, education levels, professional skills, marital status, family size, occupations, and housing conditions.[25]

In June 2023, Christian groups raised the alarm over illegal land acquisitions in the Nineveh Plains allegedly intended to alter the area's demographic composition. In an appeal to Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al Sudani and the Minister of Construction, Housing, Municipalities and Public Works, Bangen Rekani, the Christians called for urgent action to: "halt any measures aimed at sorting and distributing lands in the areas of historic settlement of the indigenous Christian communities in Iraq".[26]

On 3 July 2023, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid revoked Presidential Decree No. 147, arguing that it lacked constitutional legitimacy, as the Iraqi Constitution does not empower the president to appoint or formally recognise religious leaders. Originally issued in 2013 by then-President Jalal Talabani, the decree had formally recognised Cardinal Louis Raphael Sako as Patriarch of the Chaldean Catholic Church in Iraq and worldwide, conferring legal authority over Church properties. The decree followed a long-standing tradition of granting civil recognition to minority religious leaders for administrative purposes. President Rashid clarified that the revocation did not affect Cardinal Sako's ecclesiastical authority, which derives from the Vatican.[27] In protest, Patriarch Sako left his patriarchal seat in Baghdad and relocated to the city of Erbil.

In August 2023, in an interview with Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), the Patriarch stated that reversing the decree was: "...a humiliation for the Church. Those behind this move want to put their hands on the properties of the Church and administer them separately from the ecclesiastical authorities. We cannot accept that."[28] The management of Church assets appeared the crux of the matter. According to Patriarch Sako, President Rashid acted under pressure from the Babiliyoun Brigades and their leader, Rayan al-Kildani with the he pro-Iranian Christian militia and political party seeking to seize the assets of the Chaldean Church.[29] In July 2023, Ano Jawhar, KRG Minister of Transport and Communications, defended the patriarch on TV: "For the first time in the history of the so-called new Iraq after 2003, Christians are being subjected to 'state persecution' by the head of the executive authority in the Iraqi state."[30]

Cardinal Sako challenged the president's decision in court. In November 2023, the Supreme Federal Court of Iraq dismissed his lawsuit, finding no irregularities in the decree's revocation. The cardinal described it as "an unfair decision."[31]

In July 2023, Iraq expelled the Swedish ambassador only hours after Iraqi protesters -- angered by the burning of copies of the Qur'an in Sweden -- stormed the Swedish embassy in central Baghdad, scaled its walls, and set the compound on fire.[32]

That same month, a new Catholic pastoral centre was inaugurated in the city of Dohuk in the Kurdish region.[33]

In November 2023, the Iraqi Minister of Immigration and Displacement, Ivan Faiq Jabro, announced the voluntary return of 487 displaced Yazidis from the Sharia camp in Dohuk Governorate to their original areas of residence in Shingal, Nineveh Governorate.[34]

In November 2023, Pope Francis received Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid in the Vatican. According to a statement by the Holy See Press Office, during the meeting "the need was reiterated for the Catholic Church in Iraq to be able to continue to carry out its valued mission and for all Iraqi Christians to be a vibrant and active part of society and the territory, particularly in the Nineveh Plains."[35]

In December 2023, the Chaldean Patriarchate cancelled all Christmas activities --including concerts in clubs or Church halls and media coverage -- in protest against the revocation of the Presidential Decree No. 147, out of respect for the victims of the ongoing conflict in the Holy Land, and the tragedy in the predominantly Syriac town of Qaraqosh[36] where 133 people died following a fire in a wedding hall in September 2023.[37] That same month, the Sunni Endowment Office cancelled all celebrations of the Prophet's birthday for the same reason.[38] Shi'a Grand Ayatollah Sayyed Ali Al-Sistani also expressed sorrow and regret over the same incident.[39]

In late 2023, 63 of 121 Christian families were evicted[40] from homes built on the state-owned Mariam al-Adra (Virgin Mary) Compound in Baghdad. They had taken refuge there after fleeing the Islamic State group (also known as Da'esh or Islamic State in Iraq and Syria, ISIS) in 2014. In 2022, the Iraqi government had decided to repurpose the area, despite protests from the Church.[41]

In December 2023, candidates running for minority seats in 15 provincial council elections received more than 42,000 votes, securing all ten reserved seats: four Christian seats (Nineveh, Baghdad, Kirkuk, and Basrah), two Faili Kurd seats (Baghdad and Wasit), two Sabean-Mandean seats (Baghdad and Maysan), one Shabak seat (Nineveh), and one Yazidi seat (Nineveh). Minority candidates also succeeded in winning additional seats by running on other party lists.[42]

In February 2024, the Iraqi Ministry of Justice established a new committee to examine real estate claims of religious minorities.[43]

In March 2024, Iraq's Supreme Court ruled that the federal government could monitor and block websites deemed "anti-religious" for publishing derogatory content about, for example, holy scriptures or prophets.[44]

In March 2024, Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid met Christian leaders and affirmed the importance of Iraq's indigenous Christian communities as "an integral part of the interdependent diversity of the country's multicultural identity".[45]

In June 2024, Chaldean Bishop Paul Thabit Mekko of Alqosh told Agenzia Fides that ten years after the Islamic State occupation, fewer than 50 Christian families had returned to the city of Mosul, once home to at least 1,200 Christian families.[46]

In June 2024, Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani issued a decree "to name Cardinal Patriarch Louis Raphael Sako as the Patriarch of the Chaldeans in Iraq and in the world", thereby restoring the institutional recognition that had been revoked in July 2023 by Iraqi President Abdul Latif Rashid.[47]

In July 2024, the United States Central Command (US CENTCOM) reported that the Islamic State was "on pace to more than double the number of attacks they claimed in 2023". The increase suggested that the group "is attempting to reconstitute following several years of decreased capability". Some 137 operations resulted in the death of 30 Islamic State operatives and the detention of another 74.[48]

In August 2024, Yazidi NGO Yazda issued a statement expressing grave concern over a "campaign of hate speech and online violence" against Yazidis--especially worrying as it coincided with the 10th anniversary of the Yazidi genocide. According to Yazda, many Yazidis contacted the organisation in fear of imminent attacks. The statement urged the Iraqi government and the KRG to "tackle the root causes of the Yazidi genocide, and ensure clear guarantees of non-repetition for the crimes committed against Yazidis and other groups."[49]

In November 2024, the Iraqi parliament extended the ban on alcohol to hotels and social clubs, moving the country closer to full prohibition. Violators face fines ranging from US$7,700 to US$19,000.[50] A law passed in 2016 had already banned the production, import and sale of alcoholic beverages, but was only enforced as of March 2023. Christian lawmakers criticised the legislation and filed a lawsuit with the Federal Supreme Court challenging the constitutionality of the Municipal Imports Law.[51] In August 2023, the Court dismissed the case.[52] Selling alcohol is a significant source of income for non-Muslim minorities such as Christians and Yazidis.

In November 2024, Mohamed Al Hassan, the Special Representative of the United Nations Secretary-General for Iraq and head of the United Nations Assistance Mission for Iraq (UNAMI), called for action to help displaced Yazidis. Ten years after the genocide and seven years after the Islamic State's military defeat, more than 200,000 Yazidis remain displaced in the KRI and over 2,600 are still missing.[53] In October 2024, a Yazidi woman who had been kidnapped at the age of 11 by the Islamic State in Iraq and later taken to Gaza, was rescued after more than a decade in captivity.[54]

In February 2025, another mass grave was excavated in the district of Sinjar (Shingal), containing the remains of 15 to 20 individuals. Since the liberation of the predominantly Yazidi area from Islamic State control, 93 mass graves have been identified, though only 53 have been excavated.[55]

In February 2025, a significant increase in Islamic State movements was reported between Kirkuk and Salahaddin governates, with armed operatives wearing military uniforms.[56]

In March 2025, Prime Minister Mohammed Shia al-Sudani announced that Iraqi security forces, with US support, had killed Islamic State leader Abdallah Makki Muslih al-Rufay'i, also known as Abu Khadija.[57] Despite its military defeat in 2017, the group continues to operate sleeper cells and mount occasional attacks.

In March 2025, Patriarch Cardinal Louis Sako received Mohammed Al-Mayah, Director of the Government Coordination Affairs Office at the National Security Council, and Ali Al-Saadi, Advisor to the Security and Defence Committee of the Council of Representatives, at his residence in Baghdad. They discussed the situation of Christians and ways to support them.[58]

That same month, Cardinal Sako called for reform of the Christian quota system ahead of the parliamentary elections scheduled for October 2025. In a statement, he argued that the current process failed to ensure genuine representation of Iraq's Christian minority in parliament.[59] In the previous election, four of the five seats allocated to Christians were won by candidates from the Babiliyoun Movement.

Prospects for freedom of religion

During the period under review, religious freedom in Iraq remained fragile. The relationship between Christians and various levels of government was strained by several political and legal decisions. The abolition of Christian quota seats in the KRI and the revocation of official recognition of the Chaldean patriarch's authority over Church assets further undermined trust. Both actions could have been averted.

The Iraqi government's inability -- or unwillingness -- to curb the influence of State-funded, Iran-linked militias, particularly factions of the Popular Mobilisation Forces (PMF), continued to pose a threat to religious minorities. Displaced Christians were reluctant to return to the Nineveh Plains, mainly because of the PMF's 50th (Babiliyoun) Brigade and its leader, Rayan al-Kildani. Christian emigration continues.

The Yazidi community remains particularly vulnerable, with more than 200,000 still displaced and more than 2,600 still missing. The constant hate speech has further deepened the community's sense of insecurity.

The increase in attacks by the Islamic State group is another worrying trend.

In the absence of any meaningful political, economic and security reforms, prospects for major improvements in the situation of religious freedom, remain bleak. Equal citizenship and comprehensive religious freedom are not yet in sight.

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2 Chapter 8, Section 2, Iraq: Penal Code ((Law No. 111 of 1969), Refworld, https://www.refworld.org/docid/452524304.html (accessed 29th March 2025).

3 Law  (188) of the year 1959 Personal Status Law and amendments, PeaceWomen -- Women's International League for Peace and Freedom, https://www.peacewomen.org/sites/default/files/lawref_iraqpersonalstatuslaw1959_aba_0.pdf (accessed 27th March 2025).

4 Law  (188) of the year 1959 Personal Status Law 1 and amendments, op. cit.

5 "Iraq 2023," Freedom in the World 2023, Freedom House, https://freedomhouse.org/country/iraq/freedom-world/2023 (accessed 28th March 2025).

6 Office of International Religious Freedom, "Iraq," 2023 Report on International Religious Freedom, U.S. Department of State, https://www.state.gov/reports/2023-report-on-international-religious-freedom/iraq/ (accessed 27th March 2025).

7 Sirwan Kajjo, "Iraqi Court's Decision Threatens to Undermine Kurdish Autonomy" Voice of America (VOA), 22nd February 2024, https://www.voanews.com/a/iraqi-court-s-decision-threatens-to-undermine-kurdish-autonomy/7499308.html#:~:text=Iraqi%20Court%E2%80%99s%20Decision%20Threatens%20to%20Undermine%20Kurdish%20Autonomy (accessed 28th March 2025).

8 "Iraq," 2025 Annual Report, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) https://www.uscirf.gov/sites/default/files/2025-03/2025%20USCIRF%20Annual%20Report.pdf (accessed 29th March 2025).

9 Ibid.

10 Ibid.

11 "Country policy and information note: religious minorities, Iraq," UK Visa and Immigration, September 2024, Updated December 2024, https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/iraq-country-policy-and-information-notes/country-policy-and-information-note-religious-minorities-iraq-september-2024-accessible (accessed 30th May 2025).

12 Iraq - Country Focus, European Union Agency for Asylum, EUAA, May 2024, https://euaa.europa.eu/sites/default/files/publications/2024-06/2024_05_COI_Report_Iraq_Country_Focus_EN_0.pdf (accessed 28th March 2025).

13 Office of International Religious Freedom, op. cit.

14 "Country policy and information note: religious minorities, Iraq," op. cit.

15 Ibid.; "Iraq 2023," Freedom House, op. cit.

16 Office of International Religious Freedom, op. cit.

17 "Duhok bishop faces legal complaint over Facebook post on Islam," Rudaw, 18th February 2023, https://www.rudaw.net/english/kurdistan/180220231#:~:text=Duhok%20bishop%20faces%20legal%20complaint%20over%20Facebook%20post%20on%20Islam (accessed 29th March 2025).

18 Office of International Religious Freedom, op. cit.

19 Yaqoub Beth-Addai, "Nineveh Plains Christians Defend Against the Babiliyoun Militia," Washington Institute for Near East Policy, 16th March 2023, https://www.washingtoninstitute.org/policy-analysis/nineveh-plains-christians-defend-against-babiliyoun-militia#:~:text=Nineveh%20Plains%20Christians%20Defend%20Against%20the%20Babiliyoun%20Militia (accessed 28th March 2025).

20 "Patriarch Sako calls for withdrawal of sectarian militias from the Nineveh Plain," Agenzia Fides, 18th January 2024, https://www.fides.org/en/news/74630-ASIA_IRAQ_Patriarch_Sako_calls_for_withdrawal_of_sectarian_militias_from_the_Nineveh_Plain#:~:text=ASIA/IRAQ%20%2D%20Patriarch%20Sako%20calls%20for%20withdrawal%20of%20sectarian%20militias%20from%20the%20Nineveh%20Plain (accessed 29th March 2025).

21 Samar Abdelrahman, "Iraqi Sunnis warn of 'religious tumult' in Samarra," Jusoor Post, 14th March 2023, https://jusoorpost.com/en/posts/19640/iraqi_sunnis_warn_of_religious_tumult_in_samarra#:~:text=Iraqi%20Sunnis%20warn%20of%20%E2%80%98religious%20tumult%E2%80%99%20in%20Samarra (accessed 28th March 2025).

22 "At 'Living Together' celebration in Bagdad, religious and ethnic leaders see 'with our own eyes what diversity means'," World Council of Churches (WCC), 6th March 2023, https://www.oikoumene.org/news/at-living-together-celebration-in-bagdad-religious-and-ethnic-leaders-see-with-our-own-eyes-what-diversity-means (accessed 28th March 2025).

23 "Kaka'i Delegation Received by KRG Prime Minister," Kurdish Regional Government, 13th December 2023, https://gov.krd/english/government/the-prime-minister/activities/posts/2023/december/kakai-delegation-received-by-krg-prime-minister/ (accessed 27th March 2025).

24 "Iraq's Christians fight to save threatened ancient language," Al Jazeera, 7th June 2023, https://www.aljazeera.com/gallery/2023/6/7/iraqs-christians-fight-to-save-threatened-ancient-language (accessed 29th March 2025).

25 "The Iraqi government launches data collection to create a digital 'database' on Christian communities," Agenzia Fides, 2nd May 2023, https://www.fides.org/en/news/73711-ASIA_IRAQ_The_Iraqi_government_launches_data_collection_to_create_a_digital_database_on_Christian_communities#:~:text=ASIA/IRAQ%20%2D%20The%20Iraqi%20government%20launches%20data%20collection%20to%20create%20a%20digital%20%22database%22%20on%20Christian%20communities (accessed 29th March 2025).

26 "Christian parties raise new alarm over illegal land acquisitions in the Nineveh Plain," Agenzia Fides, 21st June 2023, https://www.fides.org/en/news/73915-ASIA_IRAQ_Christian_parties_raise_new_alarm_over_illegal_land_acquisitions_in_the_Nineveh_plain#:~:text=ASIA/IRAQ%20%2D%20Christian%20parties%20raise%20new%20alarm%20over%20illegal%20land%20acquisitions%20in%20the%20Nineveh%20plain (accessed 29th March 2025).

27 Peter Pinedo, "Iraq's president revokes recognition of Catholic leader," Catholic News Agency, 17th July 2023, https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/254822/iraq-s-president-revokes-recognition-of-catholic-leader (accessed 14th April 2025).

28 "Patriarch: President's decree reversal is a 'humiliation for the Church'," Aid to the Church in Need (ACN) International, 7th August 2023, https://acninternational.org/patriarch-presidents-decree-reversal-is-a-humiliation-for-the-church/#:~:text=AUGUST%207%2C%202023-,Patriarch%3A%20President%E2%80%99s%20decree%20reversal%20is%20a%20%E2%80%98humiliation%20for%20the%20Church%E2%80%99,-The%20leader%20of (accessed 29th March 2025).

29 "An Open Letter From Patriarch Sako," Chaldean Patriarchate, 16th July 2023, https://chaldeanpatriarchate.com/2023/07/16/an-open-letter-from-patriarech-sako/(accessed 28th March 2025).

30 "Minister Ano Jawhar: 'For the first time in the history of the so-called new Iraq after 2003, Christians are being subjected to 'state persecution' by the head of the executive authority in the Iraqi state' (in Arabic)," Chaldean Patriarchate, 24th July 2023, https://chaldeanpatriarchate.com/2023/07/24/%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%88%d8%b2%d9%8a%d8%b1-%d8%a2%d9%86%d9%88-%d8%ac%d9%88%d9%87%d8%b1%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85%d8%b3%d9%8a%d8%ad%d9%8a%d9%88%d9%86-%d9%88%d9%84%d8%a3%d9%88%d9%84-%d9%85%d8%b1%d8%a9-%d9%81%d9%8a/ (accessed 28th March 2025).

31 "Sako's initial response to Federal Court ruling," Shafaq News, 16th November 2023, https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Sako-s-initial-response-to-Federal-Court-ruling#:~:text=Sako%27s%20initial%20response,Louis%20Rapha%C3%ABl%20Sako (accessed 28th March 2025).

32 "Iraq expels Sweden ambassador, embassy stormed over Quran burning," Al Jazeera, 20th July 2023, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2023/7/20/protesters-storm-swedish-embassy-in-baghdad-over-quran-burning (accessed 29th March 2025).

33 "New Pastoral Centre is a sign of hope for a better future in Iraq," Aid to the Church in Need (ACN), 7th August 2023, https://acninternational.org/new-pastoral-centre-is-a-sign-of-hope-for-a-better-future-in-iraq/#:~:text=AUGUST%207%2C%202023-,New%20Pastoral%20Centre%20is%20a%20sign%20of%20hope%20for%20a%20better%20future%20in%20Iraq,-Almost%20exactly%20nine (accessed 29th March 2025).

34 "487 Yazidis returned to Sengal," Hawar News Agency (ANHA), 6th November 2023, https://hawarnews.com/en/487-yazidis-returned-to-sengal#:~:text=returned%20to%20%C5%9Eengal-,487%20Yazidis%20returned%20to%20%C5%9Eengal,-487%20displaced%20Yazidis (accessed 28th March 2025).

35 "Holy See Press Office Communique: Audience with the President of the Republic of Iraq," Holy See Press Office, 18th November 2023, https://press.vatican.va/content/salastampa/en/bollettino/pubblico/2023/11/18/231118e.html (accessed 26th May 2025).

36 "Qaraqosh," Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Qaraqosh (accessed 29th May 2025).

37 "The Chaldean Patriarchate Decides to Cancel all Christmas Activities this Year Including Decorations," Chaldean Patriarchate, 17th December 2023, https://chaldeanpatriarchate.com/2023/12/17/19294/,(accessed 28th March 2025).

38 "Sunni Endowment Office directs the cancellation of all celebrations of the Prophet's birthday," Iraqi News Agency, 27th September 2023, https://ina.iq/eng/28866-sunni-endowment-office-directs-the-cancellation-of-all-celebrations-of-the-prophets-birthday.html (accessed 29th March 2025).

39 "Al-Sistani condoles the tragedy of Al-Hamdaniya: We express our solidarity with the bereaved families, and there is no power nor strength except in God," Alsharqiya, 27th September 2023, https://www.alsharqiya.com/en/news/al-sistani-condoles-the-tragedy-of-al-hamdaniya-we-express-our-solidarity-with-the-bereaved-families-and-there-is-no-power-nor-strength-except-in-god (accessed 29th March 2025).

40 Office of International Religious Freedom, op. cit.

41 Rody Sher and Charlotte Evans, "Iraqi Christians face uncertain future after eviction from 'Virgin Mary compound' in Baghdad," Catholic News Agency (CNA), 19th October 2022, https://www.catholicnewsagency.com/news/252585/iraqi-christian-families-face-uncertain-future-after-eviction-from-virgin-mary-compound-in-baghdad (accessed 29th March 2025).

42 "Ezidis and Shabaks Pass Quota, Over 42,000 Votes Secured 10 Seats for Minorities," KirkukNow, 9th January 2024, https://kirkuknow.com/en/news/69897#:~:text=Ezidis%20and%20Shabaks%20Pass%20Quota%0AOver%2042%2C000%20Votes%20Secured%2010%20Seats%20for%20Minorities (accessed 29th March 2025).

43 United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF), X, 13th February 2024, https://x.com/USCIRF/status/1757506225468551276 (accessed 29th March 2025).

44 "Iraq," 2025 Annual Report, United States Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCRIF), https://www.uscirf.gov/sites/default/files/2025-03/2025%20USCIRF%20Annual%20Report.pdf (accessed 29th March 2025).

45 "Abolition of the quota of seats reserved for minorities in the Autonomous region of Kurdistan. Christian parties appeal to President Abdul Latif Rashid," Agenzia Fides, 14th March 2024, https://www.fides.org/en/news/74829-ASIA_IRAQ_Abolition_of_the_quota_of_seats_reserved_for_minorities_in_the_Autonomous_region_of_Kurdistan_Christian_parties_appeal_to_President_Abdul_Latif_Rashid#:~:text=ASIA/IRAQ%20%2D%20Abolition%20of%20the%20quota%20of%20seats%20reserved%20for%20minorities%20in%20the%20Autonomous%20region%20of%20Kurdistan.%20Christian%20parties%20appeal%20to%20President%20Abdul%20Latif%20Rashid (accessed 29th March 2025).

46 Gianni Valente, "Ten years after the ISIS occupation: less than 50 Christian families have returned to Mosul," Agenzia Fides, 10th June 2024, https://www.fides.org/en/news/75084-ASIA_IRAQ_Ten_years_after_the_ISIS_occupation_less_than_50_Christian_families_have_returned_to_Mosul#:~:text=ASIA/IRAQ%20%2D%20Ten%20years%20after%20the%20ISIS%20occupation%3A%20less%20than%2050%20Christian%20families%20have%20returned%20to%20Mosul (accessed 29th March 2025).

47 "Iraqi PM appoints Cardinal Sako as Patriarch of the Chaldeans," Shafaq News, 11th June 2024, https://shafaq.com/en/Iraq/Iraqi-PM-appoints-Cardinal-Sako-as-Patriarch-of-the-Chaldeans (accessed 14th April 2025).

48 "Defeat ISIS mission in Iraq and Syria for January -- June 2024, 16th July 2024," U.S. Central Command, https://www.centcom.mil/MEDIA/PRESS-RELEASES/Press-Release-View/Article/3840981/defeat-isis-mission-in-iraq-and-syria-for-january-june-2024/ (accessed 29th March 2025).

49 "Yazda strongly condemns ongoing hate speech targeting Yazidis in Iraq," Yazda, 8th August 2014, https://www.yazda.org/yazda-strongly-condemns-ongoing-hate-speech-targeting-yazidis-in-iraq (accessed 29th March 2025).

50 "Iraq extends alcohol ban," L'Orient Today, 21st November 2024, https://today.lorientlejour.com/article/1436460/iraq-extends-alcohol-ban.html#:~:text=FOCUS-,Iraq%20extends%20alcohol%20ban,-Baghdad%20aligns%20with (accessed 28th March 2025).

51 "Country policy and information note: religious minorities, Iraq," op. cit.; Rael Hamid, "Iraq bans alcohol imports amid Christian criticism," Anadolu Agency, 5th March 2023, https://www.aa.com.tr/en/middle-east/iraq-bans-alcohol-imports-amid-christian-criticism/2837801#:~:text=Iraq%20bans%20alcohol%20imports%20amid%20Christian%20criticis (accessed 28th March 2025).

52 "Federal Supreme Court dismisses challenges related to the constitutionality of the Municipal Imports Law and Article (14) thereof," Federal Supreme Court, 28th August 2023, https://www.iraqfsc.iq/ennews.5031/ (accessed 28th March 2025).

53 "UN Iraq SRSG calls for solutions to Yazidi IDP's difficult conditions and commends their resilience," UN, 20 November 2024, https://iraq.un.org/en/283927-un-iraq-srsg-calls-solutions-yazidi-idp%E2%80%99s-difficult-conditions-and-commends-their-resilience#:~:text=Story-,UN%20Iraq%20SRSG%20calls%20for%20solutions%20to%20Yazidi%20IDP%E2%80%99s%20difficult%20conditions,20%20November%202024,-Dr.%20Mohamed%20Al (accessed 29th March 2025).

54 Zahra Fatima, "Yazidi woman rescued from Gaza after decade in captivity," BBC, 3rd October 2024, https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpw5v077nyjo#:~:text=Yazidi%20woman%20rescued%20from%20Gaza%20after%20decade%20in%20captivity (accessed 29th March 2025).

55 Dier Mohammed, "Mass Grave Excavated in Sinjar Amid Ongoing Efforts to Identify ISIS Victims," Kurdistan 24, 5th February 2025, https://www.kurdistan24.net/en/story/823318/mass-grave-discovered-in-sinjar-amid-ongoing-efforts-to-identify-isis-victims#:~:text=Mass%20Grave%20Excavated%20in%20Sinjar%20Amid%20Ongoing%20Efforts%20to%20Identify%20ISIS%20Victims (accessed 29th March 2025).

56 Dilshad Anwar, "VOA Kurdish: Increased ISIS activity in Iraq raises security concerns," Voice of America (VOA), 12th February 2025, https://www.voanews.com/a/voa-kurdish-increased-isis-activity-in-iraq-raises-security-concerns/7971484.html#:~:text=VOA%20Kurdish%3A%20Increased%20ISIS%20activity%20in%20Iraq%20raises%20security%20concerns (accessed 29th March 2025).

57 "Iraq says 'dangerous' ISIL leader Abu Khadija killed," Al Jazeera, 14th March 2025, https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/3/14/iraq-says-dangerous-isil-leader-abu-khadija-killed, (accessed 29th March 2025).

58 "Patriarch Sako receives Dr. Mohammed Al-Mayah and Dr. Ali Al-Saadi (in Arabic)," Chaldean Patriarchate, 26th March 2025, https://chaldeanpatriarchate.com/2025/03/26/%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%a8%d8%b7%d8%b1%d9%8a%d8%b1%d9%83-%d8%b3%d8%a7%d9%83%d9%88-%d9%8a%d8%b3%d8%aa%d9%82%d8%a8%d9%84-%d8%a7%d9%84%d8%af%d9%83%d8%aa%d9%88%d8%b1-%d9%85%d8%ad%d9%85%d8%af-%d8%a7%d9%84%d9%85/#:~:text=Ali%20Al%2DSaadi-,Patriarch,-Sako%20receives%20Dr (accessed 28th March 2025).

59 Luke Coppen, Iraqi cardinal pushes for Christian quota reform before vote, The Pillar, 26th March 2025, https://www.pillarcatholic.com/p/iraqi-cardinal-pushes-for-christian#:~:text=Iraqi%20cardinal%20pushes%20for%20Christian%20quota%20reform%20before%20vote (accessed 28th March 2025).
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Currently, he is the largest cocaine distributor in Canada. Wedding works closely with the Sinaloa Cartel, a foreign terrorist organization, to flood not only the United States but also Canada with cocaine that comes from Colombia. His organization is responsible for importing approximately 60 metric tons of cocaine annually into Los Angeles through trucks coming from Mexico, Bondi said during a press conference on Wednesday.

Officials reported that, as a result of the ongoing investigation, more than 35 people have been charged. Two hundred kilos of drugs and various weapons have been seized. Approximately 32 million dollars in cryptocurrency have been recovered, and more than 13 million in physical assets have been confiscated.

The prosecutor also recalled that Wedding is accused of murdering a federal witness after an indictment in 2024. This witness was killed in a restaurant in Medellin before he could testify against Wedding.

Because of this, a new indictment was presented today. We are charging him with two counts, two additional charges: witness tampering, intimidation, murder, money laundering, and drug trafficking. This new indictment also includes other individuals involved in the witnesss murder and other crimes connected to this criminal enterprise, added the U.S. prosecutor.

Links Between the Former Athlete and the Sinaloa Cartel

According to the Department of State, Wedding and several accomplices were also charged for their participation in the January 2025 murder of a U.S. federal witness in Colombia.

Te podria interesar SHCP Mexico y EU congelan cuentas por mas de 1,000 mdp vinculadas al Cartel del Pacifico: SHCP

According to the indictments, between January and August 2024, Wedding and others allegedly conspired to send large quantities of cocaine  weighing hundreds of kilograms  from Southern California to Canada through a Canada-based drug-trafficking network operated by accomplices in Ontario.

Weddings organization also allegedly committed acts of violence and killings to achieve its goals.

Authorities stated that they believe Wedding is residing in Mexico and is under the protection of the Sinaloa Cartel.

Read more: Trump, decidido a ir a la guerra contra el veneno mortal de los carteles

Read more: Trump y EU planean ataques contra carteles en territorio de Mexico: NBC

These Are the Links Between the Sinaloa Cartel and Former Olympic Athlete Ryan Wedding: EFE

Who Is Ryan Wedding?

Canadian former Olympic snowboarder Ryan Wedding, 43, was added to the FBIs Ten Most Wanted Fugitives list in March of this year, according to Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge (ADIC) of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office, during a press conference in Westwood.

Ryan Wedding, whose aliases include El Jefe, Giant, Public Enemy, James Conrad King, and Jesse King, was born in Thunder Bay, Canada, and competed in the Giant Slalom snowboard event during the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah.

The FBI reported that the former Olympic athlete is wanted for leading a transnational drug-trafficking organization and ordering several murders. The U.S. Department of State is offering a reward of up to 10 million dollars for his capture.

Currently, Wedding is wanted for allegedly leading a transnational drug-trafficking network that routinely sent hundreds of kilograms of cocaine from Colombia, through Mexico and Southern California, to Canada and other parts of the United States, and for orchestrating several murders and an attempted murder in connection with these drug-trafficking crimes.

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The president of Egypt, Anwar Sadat, has begun his trip to Israel  the first Arab leader ever to visit the Jewish state.

President Sadats plane landed at Ben Gurion airport at the start of his 36-hour visit.

He was greeted by Israels Prime Minister Menachim Begin and Israeli President Ephraim Katzir and a 21-gun salute was fired in his honour.

After the ceremony at the airport President Sadat was driven to Jerusalem for an hour-long meeting with Mr Begin.

Tomorrow he will address the Israeli parliament, the Knesset, with his speech broadcast live to hundreds of millions of people all over the world.

The Egyptian president will deliver his speech in Arabic  one of the Knessets official languages.

Mr Begin will respond in Hebrew with a simultaneous translation provided for President Sadat.

His trip to Israel has stunned the international community.

Israel and Egypt have fought four wars and Israel still occupies the Sinai Peninsula, part of Egypt that it captured in the 1967 war.

The Egyptian leaders offer, in a speech to his parliament on 9 November, to travel to Israel was widely regarded as no more than a literary flourish.

When Prime Minister Begin responded by issuing an official invitation nobody believed Mr Sadat would accept.

His presence in Israel breaks an Arab policy of not dealing publicly with the Jewish state created in 1948.

In the wake of demonstrations around the world against Mr Sadats visit, Israel is in a state of heightened alert and 10,000 security personnel are on duty.

Courtesy BBC News

In context

Anwar Sadat delivered his speech to the Knesset on 20 November 1977.

He told the Israeli parliament: We really and truly welcome you to live among us in peace and security.

Talks started in Israel in November and eventually led to the Camp David agreement in March 1979.

President Sadats overtures to Israel made him popular in the West  he and Menachim Begin were jointly awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1978.

But he was isolated and snubbed in the Arab world.

In October 1981 he was assassinated by soldiers at a military parade in Cairo.

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Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai confirmed plans for the phased completion of the social housing project in Areia Preta (Hac Sa Wan). The development, part of the Zone A urban plan, is intended for public housing to support low-income families in the Macau Peninsula.

From 2026 to 2027, the government plans to develop plots A5, A6, A10, and A11, delivering a total of 4,088 units, with the plan prioritizing two-bedroom units for two-person families.

During yesterdays policy address, the CE stressed the importance of stronger regulatory oversight, pledging rigorous enforcement of the social housing exit mechanism while maintaining rent exemptions for eligible tenants.

Simultaneously, the government said it will advance subsidized housing policies. It added that the implementation plan for the subsidized housing exchange system will be submitted to the Legislative Assembly for review once finalized.

As previously stated by the MSAR government, the primary goal of the project is to ensure a regular supply of public housing to meet the needs of low-income families and other eligible residents.

The government also plans a new round of public bidding for commercial shops in Zone As public housing to enhance local infrastructure in the area. NS

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Baumkuchen originated in Germany but has become a wildly popular sweet in Japan, where a prisoner of war on a small western island started making the treat that has thrived in its new homeland.

Today, the confectionery known as tree cake because of the resemblance to a trunk with rings is considered a symbol of longevity and prosperity in Japan, where Baumkuchen festivals are regularly held.

Japanese adaptations, including those using maccha and sweet potatoes, are popular gifts at weddings and birthdays. Baumkuchen is sold in gift boxes at luxury department stores and individually wrapped, smaller versions can be found at convenience stores.

The sweets early years, however, are associated with a catastrophic earthquake and two world wars.

Making Baumkuchen is one of most popular activities on Ninoshima, just a 20-minute ferry ride from Hiroshima. But visitors also must learn the sleepy islands role in Japans wartime history, according to Kazuaki Otani, head of the Juccheim Ninoshima Welcome Center.

At the outdoor center built over the site of a prisoner of war camp, amateur bakers pour batter on a bamboo pole and roast the mixture over a charcoal fire. As the surface turns light brown, a new layer is poured, creating brown rings as the cake grows thicker and the sweet smell wafts through the picnic area.

This is how a German confectioner named Karl Juchheim baked Baumkuchen while he was imprisoned on the island more than 100 years ago.

During Japans militarist expansion period beginning in the late 1890s, Ninoshima served as a military quarantine station as nearby Hiroshima developed into a major military hub. About 4,700 mostly German civilians and servicemembers were kept at 16 camps across Japan during World War I. The German prisoners at Ninoshima were given a certain degree of freedom and allowed to cook, Otani said.

Juchheim was running a bakery in Qingdao, China, then a German territory, when he was captured by the Japanese in 1915. He arrived on Ninoshima in 1917 with some 500 German POWs and is believed to have tested his Baumkuchen recipe there, Otani said.

When the war ended in 1918, Juchheim and about 200 fellow POWs stayed in Japan. In March 1919, Juchheims Baumkuchen commercially debuted in Japan at the Hiroshima Prefectural Products Exhibition. His handmade cake was hugely popular and attracted a big crowd of Japanese visitors, historical documents show.

The confectioner opened a pastry shop in Yokohama, near Tokyo, in 1922. The 1923 Great Kanto quake destroyed the business and forced Juchheim to move his family to the western port city of Kobe, where he opened a coffee shop serving Baumkuchen. That store was leveled by U.S. firebombings on Kobe two months before the end of World War II.

Yet he remained and grew the business in Kobe, where Juchheim Co., Ltd., still operates as one of Japans top confectioners with the help of his wife Elise and devoted Japanese staff.

The atomic bomb dropped by the U.S. on Hiroshima on Aug. 6, 1945, and another on Nagasaki three days later killed more than 210,000 by the end of that year. In the aftermath, about 10,000 severely injured victims were shipped from Hiroshima to Ninoshima for treatment and temporary shelter. Most died there and many of their remains have yet to be found, experts say. MARI YAMAGUCHI, NINOSHIMA, MDT/AP

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Cancer remains Macaus top killer, accounting for nearly 40% of all deaths in 2024, far ahead of cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, according to the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC).

In 2024, 944 people died from cancer, the majority of whom were men (564). Still, the incidence of cancer in women is also high, with cancer considered the leading cause of death for 380 women.

Contrary to the worldwide trend, which identifies cardiovascular diseases as the leading cause of death, in Macau, these rank second, with a substantial gap.

DSECs annual report, Macao in Figures 2025, also shows that neoplasms were the leading underlying cause of death in 2024, accounting for 38.1% of all deaths. Cardiovascular diseases followed with 24%, and respiratory diseases ranked third at 15%.

Among the three types, only cancer showed an increase compared to 2023 (from 29.6% to 38.1%), while cardiovascular diseases fell from 27.4% in 2023 to 24% in 2024, and respiratory diseases decreased from 16.8% in 2023 to 15% in 2024.

Official statistics show that cardiovascular diseases accounted for 595 deaths last year, with men topping the group (340), compared with 255 women.

The only condition showing a balanced gender distribution was diseases of the urogenital system, which claimed the lives of 40 men and 39 women last year.

According to the Macau Anti-Cancer Association, the incidence of cancer in the local population is primarily due to Macaus demography, with the region expected to reach super-aged society status by 2029.

According to the United Nations (UN), a super-aged society is a designation used when at least 20% of the population is 65 or older.

Projections indicate that the elderly population is expected to reach approximately 21.4% by 2029, representing a significant increase of 10.5% from 2019.

Contributing to this is Macaus long life expectancy (84.2 years in 2021) and one of the lowest fertility rates in the world (0.68 births per woman).

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), one in every four men aged 69 to 79 has or is likely to develop some form of cancer, with the incidence currently even higher among women (1 in 3).

DSEC also reported in their statistical review that 1,197 individuals were hospitalized in 2024 due to oncological diseases, totaling 11,716 inpatient bed days. Oncological patients also accounted for 71,545 outpatient consultations.

20-year data analysis

reports growth

Data made available by the Health Bureau (SSM) for the 20 years ending in 2022 show that the incidence of cancer in the local population more than doubled, from 1,103 cases in 2003 to 2,492 in 2022.

The trendline is particularly steep over the last 10 years, during which the number of cases increased by 55.75% (from 1,600 to almost 2,500).

SSM calls for

prevention

Considering the reality, the SSM has been advocating for early detection through screening for cancers with higher incidence.

Among them are colorectal cancer and cervical cancer, the latter of which the WHO designated November 17, 2025, as the first World Cervical Cancer Elimination Day, following the adoption of resolutions urging countries to work toward eliminating cervical cancer as a public health problem in 2020.

Aiming to continue raising awareness and encourage public action in preventing cervical cancer and achieve the WHO goal of eliminating the disease by 2030, the SSM is organizing a public activity simultaneously at 11 locations across Macau, Taipa, and Coloane on November 22 and 23 (Saturday and Sunday).

From 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., on-site health consultations, interactive games, and information panels on regular cervical and breast cancer screenings will be available, along with mental health awareness initiatives.

For early detection and prevention, female residents aged 21 to 65 who are sexually active but asymptomatic are advised to schedule a free screening at institutions such as the Womens Medical Center of the Macao Womens General Association, the Macao Federation of Trade Unions Workers Clinic, or the Son Vo Medical Center of the Macao Chinese New Youth Association.

They can also participate in the cervical cancer screening program through the Cancer Screening Appointment feature of My Health on the Macao One Account mobile application.

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In his Policy Address, Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai outlined the continuation of various measures to improve peoples livelihoods, notably proposing an increase in the marriage allowance to MOP4,000, up from the previous amount of MOP2,220.

The Chief Executive delivered his second Policy Address to the Legislative Assembly yesterday afternoon, unveiling the 2026 address titled Driving Reform to Boost Efficiency, Pooling Strengths to Tackle Challenges, and Foster Diversity in Chinese.

The address revealed nine new adjustments focused on improving peoples livelihoods.

Since the sixth-term special administrative region (SAR) government took office, key indicators of social and economic development have shown steady improvement.

Fiscal and financial operations have remained stable, with overall unemployment rates staying low, the Chief Executive stated at the Legislative Assembly yesterday.

He noted that livelihood initiatives have continued to advance, allowing all sectors of the SAR to progress steadily. Overall social stability has been maintained, marking a solid start with major policy objectives largely achieved, Sam added, noting that Macaus affairs are handled through collective consultation and collaborative efforts.

Multiple measures remain unchanged

According to Sam, multiple measures to benefit the public will remain unchanged next year, with eligible permanent residents continuing to receive MOP10,000 in cash handouts and eligible non-permanent residents receiving MOP6,000.

An additional MOP7,000 will be deposited into eligible residents non-mandatory Central Provident Fund personal accounts, while medical vouchers will remain at MOP700.

The elderly allowance, old-age pension, birth grant, and utility subsidy will also stay the same at MOP10,000 annually, MOP3,900 monthly, MOP6,500 per month, and a maximum monthly subsidy of MOP200, respectively.

Additionally, the new childcare allowance introduced in July this year will continue.

Proposed adjustments to subsidies

The maximum subsidy for residents participating in the mainlands basic medical insurance system will be increased to MOP1,000, with coverage expanded to the provinces of Guangdong and Fujian.

The marriage subsidy will rise to MOP4,000, allowing both eligible spouses to collect it simultaneously. Additionally, the unemployment subsidy will increase to MOP210 per day, while the sickness allowance will be raised to MOP180 per day for non-hospitalization cases and MOP240 per day for hospitalization. The funeral allowance will also see an increase, rising to MOP5,200.

Among the proposed adjustments to social welfare programs aimed at supporting families in need, the caregiver allowance is set to increase to MOP2,400 per month, with plans to lower the application threshold and expand eligibility for applicants.

Additionally, special subsidies for disadvantaged families will see increases across three categories: the learning activity subsidy will rise to between MOP400 and MOP900 per month, the nursing subsidy will increase to between MOP1,200 and MOP1,440 per month, and the disability subsidy will range from MOP900 to MOP1,200 per month.

The Community Inclusion and Harmony Programme will also introduce special living allowances, adjusted per household size, ranging from MOP2,900 for one person to MOP11,200 for households with up to eight members.

The Policy Address also proposes adjustments to the stamp-duty exemption for real-estate transfers, specifically exempting the first MOP6 million of the purchase price for residential units.

The minimum subsistence index has remained unchanged since its adjustment on January 1, 2020, and the latest Policy Address does not propose any revisions.

Govt admits persistent problem

In reviewing and summarizing this years policy implementation, the Chief Executive acknowledged several deep-seated contradictions and long-standing challenges, including uneven economic development, limited progress in achieving appropriate economic diversification, and the slow revitalization of the citys old districts.

These issues demand greater efforts and intensified measures to resolve, he stated.

As long as it benefits economic development, improves peoples livelihoods, and serves the overall and long-term interests of the Macau SAR, the government will redouble its efforts, pursue bold reforms, and continuously enhance governance standards and effectiveness to meet the expectations of our residents, he asserted.

The Chief Executive outlined his governments overall policy direction for next year, emphasizing that optimizing peoples livelihoods is a key priority. During the drafting process, the government actively sought input from all sectors of society and the general public, which helped clarify the direction for improvement, he stated.

Implementation and precision

After presenting the Policy Address, Sam described during a press conference at Government Headquarters the newly announced series of people-oriented measures as guided by two principles: implementation and precision.

He stated that existing social subsidies and allowances will be retained while cash handouts are enhanced to ensure stable basic welfare for residents.

Simultaneously, targeted support will be provided to various groups, with significant increases allocated to three categories of vulnerable communities and caregiver allowances. This approach both continues existing welfare policies and prioritizes enhanced support for vulnerable groups, he added.

The Chief Executive continued to elaborate on his Policy Address, outlining measures to support the stability of the local real-estate market.

He announced plans to raise the stamp-duty exemption threshold to MOP6 million, stating, This measure primarily aims to stabilize the entire property market.

He further explained that increasing the threshold to MOP6 million would enable the government to sell 120,000 to 130,000 units, generating hundreds of millions in sales revenue.

Meanwhile, during the press conference, authorities reaffirmed that there are no plans to make special changes to the cash-handout program, with Sam stating, Last year, some suggested converting part of the cash distribution into consumption vouchers, but the SAR government did not consider this.

He added that current social welfare expenditures have significantly exceeded the budget, explaining, For instance, the livelihood support measures announced earlier this year have already cost around MOP800 to MOP900 million, while the substantial increase in consumption during the first and second halves of the year totaled approximately MOP800 million. These funds have been fully utilized across society.

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai reiterated yesterday his plan to visit Portugal and Spain, expressing full confidence that the trip will take place in the first half of next year, ideally in April or May.

He noted that the original overseas trip scheduled for this year had been postponed several times due to heavy official duties.

This years affairs have been particularly complex. I assumed office on April 14, and after the Policy Address was delivered, various major policies and Macaus political matters, including the Legislative Assembly elections, required my attention, he explained. He added that he is currently coordinating with relevant Portuguese authorities to expedite the arrangements.

Sams Portugal trip delayed to April or May next year

Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai reiterated yesterday his plan to visit Portugal and Spain, expressing full confidence that the trip will take place in the first half of next year, ideally in April or May.

He noted that the original overseas trip scheduled for this year had been postponed several times due to heavy official duties.

This years affairs have been particularly complex. I assumed office on April 14, and after the Policy Address was delivered, various major policies and Macaus political matters, including the Legislative Assembly elections, required my attention, he explained. He added that he is currently coordinating with relevant Portuguese authorities to expedite the arrangements.

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The Health Bureau announced plans to revise smoking regulations based on the 20212023 Tobacco Control Assessment, aiming to ban new tobacco products, imitation tobacco, and re-emerging tobacco items. Authorities will also monitor flavored additives like mint, fruit, and candy in traditional tobacco products and may consider regulating flavored cigarettes in line with regional experiences. Currently, 10 health centers and stations offer cessation consultations, with 3,240 people receiving assessments from January to August.

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The Trump administrations blueprint to secure and govern Gaza won strong approval at the United Nations yesterday (Macau time), a crucial step that provides international support for U.S. efforts to move the devastated territory toward peace following two years of war.

The U.S. resolution that passed the U.N. Security Council authorizes an international stabilization force to provide security in Gaza, approves a transitional authority to be overseen by President Donald Trump and envisions a possible future path to an independent Palestinian state.

This will go down as one of the biggest approvals in the History of the United Nations, will lead to further Peace all over the World, and is a moment of true Historic proportion! Trump posted on social media.

The vote endorses Trumps 20-point ceasefire plan and builds on the momentum of the fragile ceasefire he helped broker with allies. It marks a key next step for American efforts to outline Gazas future after the Israel-Hamas war destroyed much of the territory and killed tens of thousands of people.

The proposal calls for a yet-to-be-established Board of Peace as a transitional authority that Trump would head. It also provides a wide mandate for the international stabilization force, including overseeing the borders, providing security and demilitarizing the territory. Authorization for the board and force expire at the end of 2027.

Arab and other Muslim countries that expressed interest in providing troops for an international force had signaled that U.N. authorization was essential for their participation.

Russia, which had circulated a rival resolution, abstained along with China on the 13-0 vote after fears Moscow might use its veto in the Security Council.

However, Hamas opposed the resolution, saying in a statement that it does not meet the Palestinian peoples political and humanitarian demands and rights.

U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Mike Waltz said the resolution represents another significant step towards a stable Gaza that will be able to prosper and an environment that will allow Israel to live in security.

It came about following nearly two weeks of negotiations, when Arab nations and the Palestinians pressed the United States to strengthen language about Palestinian self-determination.

But the proposal still gives no timeline or guarantee for an independent state, only saying its possible after advances in the reconstruction of Gaza and reforms of the Palestinian Authority, which now governs parts of the West Bank.

The U.S. revised the resolution to say that after those steps, the conditions may finally be in place for a credible pathway to Palestinian self-determination and statehood.

The United States will establish a dialogue between Israel and the Palestinians to agree on a political horizon for peaceful and prosperous coexistence, it adds.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu opposes Palestinian statehood and repeated that position Sunday at a time when his hard-line governing partners have expressed concern about the resolutions endorsement of a pathway to Palestinian independence.

Israels U.N. Ambassador Danny Danon told reporters before the vote that Israel was grateful to Trump for leading peace to the Middle East.

Algerias U.N. Ambassador Amar Bendjama, the Arab representative on the council, thanked Trump for his instrumental role in bringing about the ceasefire, but said genuine peace in the Middle East cannot be achieved without justice, justice for the Palestinian people.

A key to the resolutions adoption was support from Arab and other Muslim nations that had been critical to the ceasefire and potentially could contribute to the international force. The U.S. mission to the United Nations distributed a joint statement Friday with Qatar, Egypt, United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia, Pakistan, Jordan and Turkey calling for swift adoption of the U.S. proposal.

Russias U.N. Ambassador Vassily Nebenzia said Moscow took note of that support but abstained because the resolution did not include a role for the Security Council or emphatically support Palestinian statehood.

The vote shores up hopes that Gazas fragile ceasefire will be maintained following a war set off by Hamas surprise attack on southern Israel on Oct. 7, 2023, which killed about 1,200 people. Israels offensive has killed over 69,000 Palestinians, according to the Gaza health ministry, which doesnt distinguish between civilians and combatants but says the majority are women and children. EDITH M. LEDERER, UNITED NATIONS, MDT/AP

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For years, Washington has been warning others not to trust loans from Chinese state banks fueling its rise as a superpower. But a new report reveals an ironic twist: The United States is the biggest recipient of all  by far. And the security and technology implications have yet to be fully understood.

Chinas state lenders have funneled $200 billion into U.S. businesses for a quarter of a century, but many of the loans have been kept secret because the money was first routed through shell companies in the Cayman Islands, Bermuda, Delaware and elsewhere that helped obscure their origins, according to AidData, a research lab at the College of William & Mary in Virginia.

Much of the lending was to help Chinese companies buy stakes in U.S. businesses, many tied to critical technology and national security, including a robotics maker, a semiconductor company and a biotech firm.

The report found a far more widespread and sophisticated lending network than previously thought  a web of financial obligations extending beyond developing countries to rich ones, including the U.K., Germany, Australia, the Netherlands and other U.S. allies.

China was playing chess while the rest of us were playing checkers, said former White House investment adviser William Henagan, who worries the hidden lending has given China a chokehold on technologies. Wars will be won or lost based on whether you can control products critical to running an economy.

China money gets a closer look

While the U.S. still welcomes most foreign investment  and President Donald Trump has courted it  money from China has drawn particular scrutiny as the worlds two biggest economies with opposing ideologies battle for global supremacy.

Deals financed by Chinas state-owned banks, the ones studied in the AidData report, are especially problematic. The lenders are controlled by Chinas central government and the Communist Partys Central Financial Commission, and they are directed to advance Chinas strategic goals.

In total, the AidData report found China lent more than $2 trillion from 2000 through 2023 around the world, double the highest previous estimates and a surprise to even longtime analysts of Chinas rise. And much of the lending to wealthy countries was focused on critical minerals and high-tech assets  rare earths and semiconductors needed for fighter jets, submarines, radar systems, precision-guided missiles and telecom networks.

The U.S., under both (former President Joe) Biden and Trump, have been beating this drum for more than a decade that Beijing is a predatory lender, said Brad Parks, executive director of AidData. The irony is very rich.

Shell games

Until now, a full accounting of Chinas state lending has never been published because much of the financing is buried beneath layers of secrecy, masked by Western-sounding shell companies and mislabeled by international databases as ordinary private financing.

There is a complete lack of transparency, said Scott Nathan, the former head of the U.S. International Development Finance Corp., an agency set up in the first Trump term to invest in foreign projects deemed in the U.S. national interest.

Since the reports last documented loan in 2023, U.S. scrutiny has gotten better. Screening mechanisms, such as the interagency Committee on Foreign Investment in the U.S., got beefed up in 2020 to protect sensitive sectors in the economy.

But China has gotten better, too, in part by setting up banks and branches overseas  more than 100 in recent years  that then lend to offshore entities, further clouding the origins of the money.

In places where there are more cops on the beat, Parks said, it has found ways to work around barriers to entry.

Where the loans ended up

Chinese state bank financing has touched projects across the U.S., particularly in the Northeast, the Great Lakes region, the West Coast and along the Gulf of Mexico, which Trump has renamed the Gulf of America. Many loans targeted critical high-tech industries, according to the report.

 In 2015, for instance, Chinese state-owned banks lent $1.2 billion to a private Chinese business to buy an 80% stake in Ironshore, a U.S. insurer whose clients included the Central Intelligence Agency and Federal Bureau of Investigation officials and undercover agents who might need help paying legal bills in case they got into trouble in their jobs.

U.S. regulators were unaware of the Chinese government involvement because the financing was funneled through a Cayman Island business with no obvious ties to China, according to the report. U.S. officials later realized the Chinese government could access information and ordered the Chinese buyer to divest.

 That same year, the Chinese government published Made in China 2025, a list of 10 high-tech areas, such as semiconductors, biotechnology and robotics, where it wanted to reach 70% self-sufficiency within a decade. The next year, in 2016, the ExportImport Bank of China, a policy bank, provided $150 million in loans to help a Chinese company buy a robotics equipment company in Michigan.

After Chinas adoption of the manufacturing master plan, the percentage of projects targeting sensitive sectors such as robotics, defense, quantum computing and biotechnology rose from 46% to 88% of Chinas portfolio for cross-border acquisition lending, according to AidData.

 In 2017, a Delaware private equity firm using a Cayman Islands company tried to buy a U.S. chip maker; the deal was blocked when investigators discovered both companies were owned by a Chinese state-owned enterprise. That same Delaware company successfully bought a U.K. semiconductor maker that had to be divested when British authorities found out.

 And in 2022, the U.K. forced a Chinese company to divest another sensitive British firm in the industry, a designer of chips in Apple phones but potentially adaptable for military systems. The Chinese company had bought it through a company in the Netherlands that they owned. That Dutch firm is now accused of withholding semiconductors vital to automakers in the U.S.-China trade war.

Following the money

To trace Chinas hidden lending, AidData dug through regulatory filings, private contracts and stock exchange disclosures in more than 200 countries written in multiple languages.

The effort to track Chinas state loans and investment started more than a decade ago when Beijing launched its Belt & Road Initiative to build infrastructure in developing countries. The project expanded sharply three years ago when the AidData team, which eventually grew to 140 researchers, realized many of the loans were landing in advanced economies such as the U.S., Australia, the Netherlands and Portugal, where acquisitions could allow it to access technology that Beijing considers essential to its global rise.

The report says the findings show a shift in the use of state credit from promoting economic development and social welfare to gaining geo-economic advantages.

Theres global concern that this is part of a concerted effort to gain control over economic chokepoints and use this leverage, said Brad Setser, an adviser to the U.S. Trade Representative in the Biden administration. Its important that we understand what theyre doing, and they dont make it easy. DIDI TANG & BERNARD CONDON, WASHINGTON, MDT/AP

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For technology adopters looking for the next big thing, agentic AI is the future. At least, thats what the marketing pitches and tech industry T-shirts say.

What makes an artificial intelligence product agentic depends on whos selling it. But the promise is usually that its a step beyond todays generative AI chatbots.

Chatbots, however useful, are all talk and no action. They can answer questions, retrieve and summarize information, write papers and generate images, music, video and lines of code. AI agents, by contrast, are supposed to be able to take actions on a persons behalf.

But if youre confused, youre not alone. Google searches for agentic have skyrocketed from near obscurity a year ago to a peak earlier this fall.

A new report yesterday by researchers at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and the Boston Consulting Group, who surveyed more than 2,000 business executives around the world, describes agentic AI as a new class of systems that can plan, act, and learn on their own.

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Palawan continues to shine on the world stage after being named one of Frommers Best Places to Go in 2026, reaffirming its status as a global bucket-list destination.

The latest recognition comes from editors and contributors of the famed travel guide, who selected Palawan alongside cities and regions such as Chicago in the United States, Oulu in Finland, Algarve in Portugal, Adelaide in Australia, Patagonia Azul in Argentina, Vienna in Austria, and Costa Navarino in Greece.

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Margarita Nograles, chief operating officer of the Tourism Promotions Board (TPB), said the honor reflects not only the provinces scenic treasures but also the people who protect them.

When destinations like Palawan are celebrated, what the world is really seeing are the communities behind them; the stewards who protect every reef, forest, and shoreline, Nograles said. Thats what makes the Philippines special. Every traveler contributes to something lasting.

The tropical paradise has earned numerous global nods over the years, including its recent spot on Conde Nast Travelers list of top islands in Asia alongside Boracay and Siargao.

Palawan remains famous for its beaches and lagoons, as well as attractions like the Puerto Princesa Underground River and Calauit Safari.
18 November 2025  On the first day of the 71st Annual Mine Safety and Environment Conference in Baguio City, the Embassy of Sweden to the Philippines, led by Ambassador Anna Ferry, hosted a Smart Mining Forum attended by key industry leaders and mining companies. One of the highlights of the event was the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between Apex Mining Co., Inc., represented by its President and CEO, Luis R. Sarmiento, and Mr. Luciano Benitez of Business Sweden. This partnership marks the beginning of their collaborative project, Advancing Underground Connectivity, which was presented by Apex Minings Mine Planning and Engineering Manager, Haiza Pigkaulan.

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20 November marks the 50th anniversary of the death of the dictator Franco, one of the most sinister and despicable figures in Spanish history. But he was nothing more than the representative of the military caste and the social class that elevated him to his position: the big Spanish bankers, industrialists, and landowners.

Only through ruthless repression  with hundreds of thousands of people murdered in the Civil War and in the 40 years of dictatorship that followed  was the Spanish bourgeoisie able to crush the revolutionary aspirations of a working class that sought to combat fascism and solve its misery, exploitation, and suffering in the socialist revolution.

[Originally published in Spanish at comunistasrevolucionarios.org]

For more on the Spanish Transition to democracy following Francos death, we strongly recommend Alan Woods The Great Betrayal, which combines the authors first-hand experience of the period, original interviews, a wealth of documentary material, and Marxist analysis. The Great Betrayal is available from Wellred Books here.

Today, everyone  from former Francoists, to liberals, to the career politicians of the official left  is congratulating themselves on the democracy and the wonderful democratic Transition that was established after the dictator's death.

This Transition was so exemplary that, between 1976 and 1982, it claimed the lives of 198 people: workers and youth activists, neighbourhood activists, labour lawyers, left-wing militants, and Basque nationalists. All at the hands of the police, the Civil Guard, members of the army, and fascist gangs protected by the state apparatus. This amounts to one murder every 11 days for six consecutive years.

It is not surprising that the parts of the left that integrated into the regime, represented by the leadership of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) and the Communist Party (PCE), approve of what happened during the Transition, given their direct responsibility for it. But it is striking that it is the heirs of Francoism, such as the Partido Popular  founded by seven Francoist ministers  and demagogic right-wing Vox, who present themselves as the greatest champions of this period of our history and of the 1978 Constitution.

There is something that does not add up about this model Transition. Those who celebrate what happened in those years with the most enthusiasm are those who never condemned Franco's fascist uprising or the crimes of the dictatorship.

The dictatorship died in the streets, not in bed

The reality is that, although the dictator died in bed, the dictatorship died in the streets. The conquest of democratic freedoms was in the first place the product of the struggles of the working class. And also of women, students, and the demands for democratic-national rights in Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Galicia.

These freedoms were not brought about by figures such as King Juan Carlos or former Prime Minister Adolfo Suarez. Nothing could be more pathetic than portraying those who were elevated to the highest positions of government by Franco's dictatorship as heroes of democracy.

Juan Carlos was named Franco's successor by the dictator himself in 1969, and swore allegiance to the principles of the glorious National Movement (the fascist declaration of principles that launched Franco's military coup) when he was inaugurated as king on 22 November 1975.

Adolfo Suarez, before being handpicked by Juan Carlos as prime minister in July 1976, had been national secretary of the National Movement, the Franco regime's sole party. At no time in the years prior to the dictator's death did Juan Carlos or Suarez utter a single complaint or criticism of the lack of freedoms in our country. Juan Carlos was named Franco's successor by the dictator himself in 1969, and swore allegiance to the principles of the glorious National Movement / Image: public domain

There was no protest from these people about the torture in police stations, about the workers killed by the police in illegal strikes, or about the death sentences handed down by the dictator's last governments.

These statements are even more pathetic and false today after the publication of the memoirs of this scoundrel and villain, Juan Carlos de Borbon y Borbon, officially our King Emeritus. This scoundrel, who no longer has anything to hide, pours out his hatred for the left in the Spanish State today in these pages, accusing it, for reasons that he does not explain, of having de facto exiled him from the country.

In reality, Juan Carlos was exiled because of the popular hatred and contempt for him, expressed in countless demonstrations and opinion polls. Like his ancestors  his grandfather Alfonso XIII and the latter's grandmother, Isabel II  the ruling class kicked him out for his corruption and thieving, in order to save their system and, in the case of Juan Carlos, to save the monarchy itself. The former monarch now enjoys a golden exile, paid for by Spanish taxpayers, in the exemplary democracies ruled by his good friends, the satraps of the Persian Gulf.

In his memoirs, Juan Carlos states unequivocally that: If I was able to be king, it was thanks to him [Franco]. And he says of the fascist butcher, without blushing: I respected him enormously, I appreciated his intelligence and his political sense. Juan Carlos does not stop there, and says openly that: I never let anyone criticise him in front of me.

Here we see the true face of this scoundrel and, in a way, the truth of what happened. But those sycophants who knew the truth and yet servilely flattered the Bourbon king for bringing democracy  from former socialist Prime Minister Felipe Gonzalez to former communist politician Santiago Carrillo  will forever bear a stigma of infamy engraved on their foreheads.

Who was really afraid of the Transition?

There is a particularly outrageous part of the official account of the Transition, that has permeated the discussions of the leadership of the left over the last 50 years, and continues to be repeated with relentless intensity. Its main argument is as follows.

Nothing more could be achieved. The monarchy had to be accepted and an amnesty for the crimes of the Franco regime had to be accepted. We had to leave the big businessmen who supported the dictatorship alone. We couldn't purge the state apparatus of judges, military personnel, torturers, and those who collaborated with the dictatorship. We had to agree to the 1978 Constitution, because there was fear among the majority of the population, fear of the continuation of the dictatorship and of a military coup by the hard line of Francoism.

We thoroughly disagree with this blatant lie. If there really was fear among the majority of the population, why did Franco's side need to make significant democratic concessions? Would it not be more plausible to conclude that if the decisive sector of Franco's regime was forced to make democratic concessions, it was because they were the ones truly afraid?

We shall present a few facts that support this position. The most significant factor in the struggle against the dictatorship was the role of the working class. From the early 1960s onwards, Spanish workers launched a strike movement that was unprecedented in the history of the dictatorship.

The upward curve of the strike movement shows how their consciousness developed: in the three-year period 1964-66, 171,000 working days were lost to labour disputes; in 1967-69, 345,000; in 1970-72, 846,000; and in 1973-75, 1,548,000. Subsequently, after Franco's death, the strike movement took on unprecedented dimensions: from 1976 to mid-1978, no less than 13,240,000 working days were lost in labour disputes.

The main driving force behind these struggles was the CCOO trade union, led by the Communist Party (PCE). In 1975, the CCOO took over responsibility for the majority of workers in large companies that had previously been part of the Francoist union (the so-called Vertical Union). The labour agreements of the Franco regime were smashed by the direct action of the workers, who elected their own representatives through what were called Representative Committees. And all this during a dictatorship!

The workers' unions and left-wing parties were only legalised because of the fears of the Suarez government and big business / Image: public domain

At the same time, between 1975 and 1977, hundreds of Neighbourhood Associations were created throughout Spain. These were mass popular organisations in working-class neighbourhoods and villages, with tens of thousands of participants, who fought against the poor conditions and infrastructure in working-class neighbourhoods. Here too, the PCE was the determining force.

All the institutions on which the old regime rested  such as the army and the Church  were fractured and in crisis. An example of this was the clandestine creation in August 1974 of the Democratic Military Union (UMD), made up of dozens of officers and non-commissioned officers of the Spanish army who opposed Franco's dictatorship.

By the time the dictatorship was dismantled (July 1975), it had 200 members, with a presence even in the Civil Guard. If this was the atmosphere among the officers, we can imagine the atmosphere among the rank-and-file troops.

In the Catholic Church, a growing number of grassroots clergy sympathised with the workers' struggles and left-wing movements, allowing parish halls to be used for all kinds of clandestine meetings. The Catholic Action Workers' Brotherhood (HOAC) and the Catholic Workers' Youth (JOC), designed by the Church to spread religion in working-class neighbourhoods, shifted to the left to the point that they considered socialism as the true Christian ideal.

The truth is that every time the hard-line sectors of Francoism moved towards bloody repression (Vitoria in March 1976, Montejurra in May 1976, the crimes against labour lawyers in Calle Atocha in January 1977, or the Week for Amnesty in the Basque Country in May 1977), what they provoked was a radicalisation and an insurrectionary response among the working class and youth.

It was this  and nothing else  that gave rise to the internal struggle within the Francoist bureaucracy in which the reformist sector prevailed. The workers' unions and left-wing parties were only legalised because of the fears of the Suarez government and big business of a popular uprising following the crimes of Atocha.

In reality, a revolutionary crisis similar to that which had occurred a couple of years earlier in Greece and Portugal was brewing in Spain in 1975-1977. An attempted military coup in those years would have provoked a revolutionary uprising. The attempts by a sector of the Francoist apparatus to push in this direction simply reflected their losing touch with reality, which is why they were displaced.

The role of the left-wing leadership

We must say it clearly: it was not the strength of the reaction, but the betrayal of the left-wing leadership (PCE and PSOE) that was responsible for the fact that the mass struggle against the Franco regime did not culminate in a radical transformation of Spanish society along socialist lines.

The regime and the monarchy lacked authority. Big business, fearful of a revolutionary outbreak, moved capital and foreign currency abroad, leading to numerous factory closures and a sharp rise in unemployment. If the leaders of the PCE and PSOE had called for the organisation of a revolutionary Constituent Assembly, to elect an alternative government to the official one, this would have received massive support.

The basis for convening such a Constituent Assembly already existed in the form of workers' committees representing workplaces, neighbourhood associations, and student assemblies in universities and colleges. What was needed was to extend them to all workplaces and to all cities and towns in the country. A Constituent Assembly of delegates elected from these grassroots organisations would have been a million times more representative than the parliament that emerged from the semi-democratic elections of June 1977.

In these elections, young people between the ages of 18 and 21 (two million people) and Spanish emigrants (one million people), who overwhelmingly supported the left, were prevented from voting. Excessive weight was given to the votes of the most depopulated provinces, in order to dilute the weight of the large cities where the working class was concentrated.

In fact, the left-wing parties won more votes than the right-wing parties, but the latter won an absolute majority of MPs and senators! They were then able to draft the 1978 Constitution.

The 1978 Constitution was not a social contract amicably signed between two parts of society, but the result of a political betrayal of the majority of peoples expectations of revolutionary change / Image: Wikimedia Commons

The truth must be told. Instead of calling for a boycott, the leaders of the PCE and the PSOE agreed to participate in these semi-democratic elections. They had agreed in advance with Suarez that it would be the Union de Centro Democratico (UCD), the party of former Francoists that had converted to democracy, that would steer the Transition, which included preserving the monarchy.

A left-wing government of the Communist Party and the two socialist parties (PSOE and PSP) would have won by a large margin if the elections had been truly democratic. But it would have been subjected to unbearable pressure from below to proclaim the republic, radically purge the state apparatus and implement socialist expropriation measures. This was the last thing that the leaders of these parties, Carrillo and Gonzalez, wanted to do.

A government of the working class, of the progressive sectors of the middle class, of the youth, and of the oppressed nationalities would have been followed by millions. Given the power demonstrated by the workers' movement at that time, a well-prepared and organised indefinite general strike, flooding the streets with millions of workers, would have paralysed any attempt at a coup or popular repression.

The repressive forces of the state would have been split in half, with a decisive sector at the base of the police and army going over to the side of the workers. A relatively peaceful transition to socialism could have taken place. The fundamental levers of the economy could have been nationalised through democratic grassroots organisations, and the democratic republic proclaimed with maximum freedoms, including the right of self-determination for the oppressed nationalities, which would overwhelmingly have chosen to remain in a voluntary union of Iberian socialist republics.

Unfortunately, the leaders of the left lacked the slightest confidence in the struggle of the working class and the oppressed. Particular responsibility lies with the leaders of the PCE, who at that time had a hegemonic position in the workers' movement, the neighbourhood associations and the youth.

The most serious failing was that the leaders of the PCE and the PSOE did not use the enormous force of millions of workers, women, young people, professionals, impoverished small landowners and progressive intellectuals to ensure a democratic socialist regime. They didnt even achieve a more advanced form of bourgeois democracy. The monarchy inherited from Francoism was maintained with its hated flag, the Francoist apparatus with its hundreds of fascists, torturers and murderers remained intact, the indissoluble unity of Spain under the surveillance of Franco's army was accepted, etc.

The labour and left-wing leaders also endorsed all kinds of social and economic pacts (such as the Moncloa Pacts) that placed the entire burden of the capitalist crisis of those years on the shoulders of working-class families. All this led to a decline in the class struggle and to profound political disappointment and demoralisation that lasted for decades.

The 1978 Constitution was not a social contract amicably signed between two parts of society, but the result of a political betrayal of the majority of peoples expectations of revolutionary change. It was the leadership of the left, mainly the PCE, that invented the story of the danger of a military coup if popular demands went too far, which was used to contain and frustrate the revolutionary process that was gestating within Spanish society.

The state apparatus: Francoism without Franco

The farce and fraud of the so-called Transition is best expressed in the state apparatus we have today. It is a direct and unpurified legacy of the Franco dictatorship, despite 50 years of democracy. In Portugal and Greece in the 1970s, and even in France or Italy at the end of the Second World War, there was a significant, albeit partial, purge of the military personnel, police officers and judges involved in the military and fascist dictatorships. In Spain, not a single individual was purged. On the contrary, most of them were promoted during the years of democracy, including police torturers.

This was the case with police officer Antonio Gonzalez Pacheco, better known as Billy the Kid, who achieved enormous fame for the torture he carried out in the Political-Social Brigade  the police branch specialising in prosecuting political crimes  and who never paid the price for it.

Another notorious case is that of torturer Jose Sainz Gonzalez, known as Pepe the Fat, who became the first director general of the police under Spains democracy and received numerous decorations. In the 1980s, Felipe Gonzalez's government appointed him delegate of the Ministry of the Interior in the Basque Country. There, he accumulated a long list of accusations for torturing left-wing activists, nationalists, trade unionists and demonstrators with no political affiliation.

Another torturer decorated by Spains democracy was Manuel Ballesteros Garcia, honorary police commissioner, famous for his reprisals against trade unionists, democrats, communists and Basque nationalists. The same is true of Antonio Juan Creix, who retained his decorations and pay after the Transition, despite his long record of torture and murder in Barcelona.

These are just a few notable examples, to which hundreds more could be added. In the Civil Guard, a force with a long history of crimes against the working class and farm labourers, we see the same thing. Suffice it to say that the current head of the Civil Guard in Madrid, Diego Perez de los Cobos, who was reinstated to his post by court order after being dismissed by the Sanchez government, was the son of a member of the fascist Fuerza Nueva, to which he himself belonged in his youth.

In the judiciary, 10 of the 16 judges, and several of the prosecutors, who served on Franco's Tribunal de Orden Publico (TOP)  responsible for trying political crimes from 1963 to 1976  were promoted under Spains democracy to the Supreme Court and the National Court. Among them, we would highlight Timoteo Buendia, Jose F. Mateu, Antonio Torres-Dulce, Jaime Mariscal de Gante, Enrique Amat, Jose de Hijas, Jose Garralda, Antonio Gonzalez, Luis Poyatos and Felix Hernandez.

Right up to the last days of the regime, they were accomplices to the tortures carried out by the Political-Social Brigade. They never opened an investigation into them, not even for injuries, for 50 years. For his part, Judge Ismael Moreno, a notorious right-winger who currently serves in the National Court, comes from the Francoist police force, which he joined in 1974.

The situation is similar for the senior officials of the Franco regime. A few years ago, political scientist and journalist Lluc Salellas published a book entitled El franquismo que no marcha, about which he said:

I researched the lives of Franco's last 50 ministers and found that none of them were demoted under democracy. On the contrary, half of them ended up on the boards of large companies, and the other half in politics.

A clear example was Rodolfo Martin Villa, a former senior official under Franco since the 1950s and Minister of the Interior in 1976, when five workers were murdered in Vitoria. He ended up as a director of utility company Endesa and then president of television company Sogecable. The honorary president of La Caixa, Jose Vilarasau Salat, was appointed managing director of Telefonica in 1966, and later held several senior positions in the Ministry of Finance during the Franco regime.

Another example was Antonio Barrera de Irimo, first vice-president of Franco's government, who had the anarchist activist Salvador Puig Antich assassinated. He later became a director of Telefonica, Banco Hispano, Hipotecario and Hispamer. As Salellas states:

Felix Millet said it. We are 400 families and we are always the same ones.

One case mentioned by Salellas is that of Demetrio Carceller, a Falangist and minister under Franco, who founded the Estrella Damm beer empire. Another is the case of the Urquijo family: one brother was a minister and the other was president of the electricity utility company Iberdrola. Other prominent figures from the late Franco era, having converted into democrats, also did very well. The son of Torcuato Fernandez Miranda, Enrique Fernandez Miranda, chairs the Price Waterhouse Coopers Foundation.

And what about the army's officer corps? As in the case with the police and judicial apparatus, all the senior military leaders remained in their posts. They have retained to this day all the material privileges granted to them by the Franco regime: private hospitals and holiday homes, high salaries, etc.

The handful of officers suspected of leftist sympathies have been purged without any objection from the socialist governments in power. This was the case with the members of the UMD, who would never regain their military careers. Meanwhile, several of those sentenced for the pro-Francoist 23-F coup attempt  lieutenants and captains  continued their careers, with significant promotions.

To see the democratic credentials, not of the old Francoist dinosaurs in the army (most of whom are now dead) but of their heirs apparent, who reached the peak of their careers during democracy, let us recall an episode that occurred a few years ago. In a WhatsApp chat of retired air force officers, one of them suggested, with the approval of the others, that more than 26 million sons of bitches should be shot for their left-wing sympathies. That is 60 percent of the population.

This year, more than 40 retired military personnel, all of whom held high positions in the army under democracy, signed a manifesto defending Francoism, called Plataforma 2025. It defines Franco as a heroic soldier and invokes the name Crusade of Liberation for Franco's civil war of 1936-1939.

The police, military and judicial apparatuses are the quintessence of reaction in the Spanish State today. They enjoy outrageous material privileges by plundering the public coffers which are fed by the sweat and exploitation of the Spanish working class. Demolishing this state apparatus is the basic condition, not only for socialism, but even for achieving greater democratic rights.

Lessons

Neither the current regime nor its Constitution are capable of undertaking the basic changes necessary to satisfy the social and democratic needs of the majority of the population. We must point out the unfinished democratic tasks that require resolution: the proclamation of a democratic republic; the complete smashing of the state apparatus of judges, military and police left intact from Francoism; the complete separation of Church and State; as well as the right of the oppressed nationalities to decide their own fate.

Genuine sovereignty cannot consist of a series of political rights listed on paper. It must be complemented by the collective ownership of the fundamental levers of the economy and the natural resources of our territories, in order to plan them democratically in the interests of peoples welfare and fully satisfying pressing social needs.

In short, we must link the struggle for a democratic Republic of the Iberian peoples, voluntarily federated on an equal footing, to the struggle for the socialist transformation of society. That would be the first step towards the establishment of a socialist federation of Europe, a prelude to a socialist world without borders.

To achieve this task, the new generation must apply itself to a study of the revolutionary struggle against Francoism and the so-called democratic Transition. We must draw the correct lessons from these historical processes and avoid the mistakes of the past, so as to ensure the success of our current struggle.
When the BBC aired a doctored video of Donald Trump appearing to directly encourage violence during the 6 January Capitol riot of 2021, it was aiming to influence the 2024 US election.

This is par for the course. The BBC has always been the propaganda arm of the British state, which has never had any qualms about riding roughshod over democracy.

[Originally published at communist.red]

The BBC are liars

In the 1940s, the BBC lied about the extent of anti-colonial sentiment in India to justify British rule. And then, in the 1950s, it whitewashed British atrocities in Kenya.

In the 1970s, the BBC explicitly ramped up its pro-Tory bias in the face of industrial unrest, reaching a pinnacle in the 1980s, when it doctored footage of the Miners Strike to cover up police violence.

The BBC has always been an establishment mouthpiece for the British ruling class

In the 2000s, the BBC was weaponised by the ruling class to whip up support for wars in Afghanistan and Iraq.

And in the 2010s, it repeatedly and systematically attacked Jeremy Corbyn as Labour leader and urged support for the Tories, including editing in fake applause for Boris Johnsons speeches during the 2019 general election.

The BBC has always been a consistently reliable prop for the British ruling class. This is what culture secretary Lisa Nandy means when she says the BBC is a national institution and a vital part of our national story and our democracy. For this, you can safely read a vital institution for maintaining the rule of the British establishment.

Nandy even went as far to label the BBCs World Service as "a light on the hill for people in places of darkness"!

We can only assume that those places of darkness are the countries plundered, exploited, and bombed by British and western imperialism  all crimes which this proverbial light on the hill continues to cover up and defend.

Like the majority of their counterparts in the USA, the British ruling class saw Trump as a threat to the stability of their system. So  true to form, and like any good state institution in a bourgeois democracy  the BBC acted to mitigate that threat.

A hidden war

So far, so good. That Trump documentary was just a normal day in the office for BBC executives. But unusually, this time the lies have cost the jobs of the Director-General Tim Davie and the Head of News Debroah Turness. So whats going on?

Partly, its because the target of their lies this time wasnt working class people or Britains colonial subjects. Instead, its the notoriously litigious man who won election to the US presidency.

The British ruling class didnt want Trump. But now that theyve got him, they have to suck up to him. Without US imperialism Britain is nothing, so theyve mobilised all arms of the state apparatus to appease Trump, from the Prime Minister to the monarchy.

Now its the turn of the BBC to pay tribute, with the heads of two of its chief executives, and possibly some cash to throw into the bargain.

But thats only one part of the story. The source of this scandal was not Donald Trump, who has just jumped on the bandwagon like the opportunist he is. It was instead a leaked memo from within the BBC accusing the corporation of bias, and giving the Trump documentary as just one example.

Leaks like that dont just happen by accident, nor do resignations of Director-Generals and CEOs happen lightly. And it is totally unprecedented for both to resign at the same time.

Theres a war going on in the murky depths and dark recesses of the state, which is now breaking to the surface inside the BBC.

The ruling class at war with itself

Over many centuries the British ruling class has sculpted a state machinery that helps it maintain power. The BBC is part of that. But this only works as long as the state  which the BBC is a part of  is seen as neutral. Otherwise far fewer people would respect its authority.

In order to maintain the BBC as a reliable institution, everything is run behind the scenes, away from the prying eye of the public. The Beeb is controlled by a shadowy group called the BBC Board, who make all of the key decisions, and has five direct political appointments by the government itself.

But by centralising all of the decision-making into one body, this hidden civil war has spilled out into public view all the more visibly. It was from within the Board itself that this factional struggle erupted. And as a result, the searchlight of public opinion is shining into the boardrooms of Broadcasting House.

The contradiction between the BBCs role as ruling-class propaganda, and the need to cover that up with supposed independence, is the cause of the war thats raging right now in the BBC.

On one side you have those who understand the value of the BBC being seen as independent. They want to maintain trust in the broadcaster so that it can be used as an effective establishment propaganda machine at critical moments. The outgoing Director-General and much of the British establishment is in this camp.

On the other side you have those who dont care about the perceived independence of the BBC or any state institutions for that matter. In fact, they argue, most people have lost confidence in these institutions already, so we might as well mobilise them explicitly in the interests of the ruling class.

This is the camp of Boris Johnson, who, when he was Prime Minister, took this approach to the Tory party, parliament, the judiciary, and even the monarchy. Its Johnsons appointee to the BBC Board, Robbie Gibb, who has used this Trump documentary to strike a blow against the Director-General and others in the enemy camp.

Its a neat irony that the weapon Gibb has been able to use in this war is a documentary about Trump, who is himself the biggest practitioner of ripping the mask off liberal democracy to reveal the snarling face of the capitalist class underneath.

A war without victors

The fact is that both sides are right, in their own way. Confidence in the institutions of the British state is at record lows.

Within the BBC itself, a deep crisis has been brewing for many years. Alongside declining license fee income  itself a result of declining trust  100 journalists recently revolted over the BBCs pro-Israel bias; Gary Lineker was publicly ousted for his pro-Palestine views; and scandals erupted over misconduct allegations against Huw Edwards and Greg Wallace.

The BBC has always been an establishment mouthpiece for the British ruling class

The same story is true of the rest of the establishment. No one trusts politicians, everyone hates the police, the military cant hit its recruitment targets, the prisons are collapsing, the courts are overwhelmed, the Queen is dead, Charles is invisible, and Andrew is disgraced.

This is a dangerous situation for the ruling class, which needs a strong state in order to rule. The perceived independence of the BBC is one of the last things it has to hold on to, and itll fight tooth-and-nail to do so. This is the governments approach at the moment: yes the documentary was a mistake  but in general the BBC is great and should be defended.

However, those who say that the BBC is too left-wing and effectively needs to ditch any attempt to appear neutral are correctly realising that class polarisation is deepening and big battles are coming. Theyre going to need every weapon they can get to fight the class war, including the BBC.

The reality is that this is a disagreement between a majority and minority wing of the ruling class over the best way to deploy the BBC against the working class. Do they want the mailed fist openly on display, or covered by a velvet glove?

This is becoming a fevered discussion within the ranks of the establishment, and breaking out into scandal at the BBC, because anger among the working class is growing.

Left figures like Polanski and Sultana are on the rise, and the Palestine movement has shown the scale of anti-establishment feeling in Britain. The hammer blows of a weak economy and an upcoming brutal budget will turn the temperature up even more on the industrial front.

Ultimately, the power of the workers movement will render the internal wars of the ruling class irrelevant. This scandal at the BBC is merely a tremble in the treetops as the hurricane builds. Every state institution will be exposed and blown away by the coming storm.
On Monday, 17 November 2025, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced that Cabo Verde, Mauritius and Seychelles have successfully eradicated measles and rubella, becoming the first countries in sub-Saharan Africa to do so. The declaration followed a review by the WHOs Regional Verification Commission, which met in October in Johannesburg and confirmed that all three island states had interrupted endemic transmission of both viruses for more than 36 months while maintaining robust surveillance systems.

WHO Regional Director for Africa, Mohamed Janabi, hailed the achievement as a defining milestone in Africas public health journey, emphasising the crucial role of prioritising vaccines and prevention. Cabo Verdes Health Minister Jorge Figueiredo underscored the decades-long threat the diseases posed to children and highlighted the collaborative effort among governments, health workers, communities and international partners that made the breakthrough possible. Cabo Verde last recorded a measles case in 1999 and rubella in 2010, while Mauritius has seen no measles cases since 2019 and Seychelles contained its last measles outbreak in 2020, with no rubella cases since 2016.

The WHO noted that the three island nations now join 133 countries globally verified to have eliminated both diseases. Measles and rubella, highly contagious airborne viruses, remain preventable through vaccination. Measles can cause severe complications and death among children, while rubella poses serious risks of irreversible birth defects when contracted during pregnancy.
Zambia announced on Monday, 17 November 2025, that it will receive a $1.5 billion health-sector grant from the United States, with a financing agreement expected to be signed next month.

The MoU (Memorandum of understanding) will span April 2026 to 2030, targeting improvements in HIV, malaria and tuberculosis prevention, as well as bolstering outbreak surveillance and maternal and child health services.

Health Minister Elijah Muchima noted that Zambia is among only 16 African nations selected for this partnership, highlighting the countrys longstanding collaboration with the US, which has provided nearly $7 billion for HIV and TB interventions over the past two decades.

US Ambassador Michael Gonzales said the grant framework will commit both governments to agreed funding levels and performance targets, supporting Zambias transition from an aid-reliant system to a domestically sustained health architecture. He emphasised that the pact will reinforce laboratory networks, data systems and medical staffing jointly developed over the years, ensuring durable, high-quality healthcare delivery for the Zambian population.
South Africa on Monday, November 17, expressed deep concern over the unexpected arrival last Thursday of 153 Palestinians at Johannesburgs airport, describing the incident as part of what it believes is a broader attempt to expel Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank.

The passengers landed on a chartered flight without Israeli departure stamps, with reports linking their travel to a shadowy organisation known as Al-Majd. Foreign Minister Ronald Lamola said the government remains suspicious of the circumstances surrounding the flight, noting that a previous group of 176 Palestinians had quietly arrived on 28 October.

Authorities held the latest group on the aircraft for 12 hours before President Cyril Ramaphosa authorised their entry under South Africas 90-day visa exemption policy.

The humanitarian organisation Gift of the Givers, which is assisting the arrivals, said many passengers had been misled about their destination, believing they were travelling to countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia or India. Several reported paying around $2,000 to Al-Majd and later found that promised accommodation in South Africa had only been arranged for a week, with the organisation cutting contact upon their arrival. Some now intend to apply for asylum.

The Palestinian embassy in Pretoria condemned Al-Majd as an unregistered and exploitative outfit that took advantage of desperate families in Gaza. Israeli authorities told AFP that the departure of the 153 Palestinians had been approved after a third country agreed to receive them, though they did not specify which. Lamola said South Africa is investigating the matter as the country prepares to host world leaders at the upcoming G20 summit, reaffirming its longstanding support for the Palestinian cause and its ongoing 2023 genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice.
Gabon has signed a landmark agreement with a coalition of international donors to protect 34,000 square kilometres of its Congo Basin rainforests, a region that covers nearly 90% of the country and serves as a vital ecological stronghold.

The initiative, known as Gabon Infini, will mobilise $94 million from donors including the Global Environment Facility and the Bezos Earth Fund, alongside $86 million in government funding over the next decade.

Using a Project Finance for Permanence model, the plan ties the release of funds to specific government policy reforms, a structure increasingly adopted globally, with Brazil announcing a similar arrangement on Monday and other African countries such as Kenya and Namibia preparing comparable deals.

The programme aims to establish new national parks, strengthen protections against elephant poaching and expand eco-tourism, building on a recent debt-for-nature swap that refinanced $500 million in loans for conservation purposes. The initiative comes at a time of heightened concern over Gabons fiscal trajectory, with its 2026 draft budget signalling a sharp rise in spending and a projected debt-to-GDP ratio nearing 90%. Officials, including former minister Maurice Ntossui Allogo, have hailed the agreement as a pivotal milestone for conservation. Environmental partners such as The Nature Conservancy underline Gabons global significance, noting that the project will expand protected forest coverage from 15% to 30%, with hopes it will serve as a model for the wider Congo Basin and the continent.
TotalEnergies is facing serious war crimes allegations after a human rights group filed a complaint with French prosecutors accusing the company of complicity in atrocities committed near its multi-billion-dollar gas project in northern Mozambique in 2021.

The European Center for Constitutional and Human Rights alleges that Mozambican security forces guarding the Afungi peninsula project tortured and executed civilians inside shipping containers at the companys facility.

TotalEnergies has consistently denied responsibility for the actions of State forces. The violence occurred in Cabo Delgado province, where government troops were fighting Islamist militants linked to the Islamic State group. An attack on Palma in March 2021 left 1,563 civilians dead or kidnapped, with investigative journalist Alex Perry documenting both the assault and a subsequent reprisal killing near Totals compound, identifying at least 97 victims.

The allegations have intensified pressure on international partners backing the liquefied natural gas project. Environmental groups are urging the UK and Dutch governments to withdraw financial support, arguing that the severity of the accusations should disqualify the venture from public backing. French banks Societe Generale and Credit Agricole have already stepped away. Critics argue the project has become an ethical, environmental and financial liability, despite claims by supporters that it remains a transformative investment opportunity for the region. Campaigners contend that TotalEnergies has not learned from past failures, pointing to its move to lift force majeure on the project despite ongoing instability. The case has drawn comparisons with separate legal proceedings in France against the cement giant Lafarge over alleged payments to jihadist groups in Syria.
On Tuesday, November 18 2025, the Angolan Government, through its Ministry of Tourism, has unveiled an ambitious international strategy to raise the countrys profile as a major tourism destination.

Minister Marcio Daniel highlighted that Angola plans to attract significant foreign investment by finalising a Tourism Doing Business guide, aimed at presenting the countrys potential in investor-friendly language.

He also noted the advanced development of a Tourism Academy in partnership with UN Tourism, which will offer professional training and a UNrecognized seal of quality to build local capacity across the sector.

To support this expansion, the Government has launched four key strategic projects  Capacita Turismo, Comunica Turismo, Planifica Turismo, and Reclassifica Turismo  designed to restructure the industry around training, communications, planning, and service quality.

A centerpiece of the plan is the brand Visit Angola  The Rhythm of Life, which Minister Daniel described as Angolas global callingcard, framing the country as a modern, accessible, and culturally rich destination. Angola has secured its status as a host country for the International Tourism Fair to be held next year.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: University of Sydney

3D printed blood vessels on glass that mimic blood vessel anatomy and the fluid dynamics of blood flow could be an invaluable tool in studying the causes of stroke, new research from a University of Sydney team has found and it has already led to important insights.

The technology, published in Advanced Materials, could also help test new medications tailored to patients with specific health conditions.

Cardiovascular disease is currently the leading cause of mortality in Australia, with one person losing their life from heart disease approximately every 12 minutes.

Although there are well established diagnosis methods for cardiovascular diseases, there is no method to predict early events that lead to blood clots in carotid arteries.

"We're not just printing blood vesselswe're printing hope for millions at risk of stroke worldwide. With continued support and collaboration, we aim to make personalized vascular medicine accessible to every patient who needs it," said Ph.D. candidate Charles Zhao from the School of Biomedical Engineering, Faculty of Engineering.

Charles's background is mechanical engineering but he was inspired to take up a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering to create something with more human impact. His knowledge in fluid dynamics was invaluable when applied to studying blood flow in blood vessels.

The model re-creates anatomically accurate replicas of healthy and diseased areas of blood vessels. This includes delicate blood vessel anatomy, and dents and divots on the damaged lining of the blood vessel wall, a pathology commonly seen in stroke patients.

Researchers used CT scans of stroke patients as blueprints to create mini models, shrinking the original carotid artery 3D model to 200 to 300 micrometers. A full-sized carotid artery is 5 to 7 mm.

The researchers were also able to 'shrink' the manufacturing time from 10 hours to two hours.

Traditional 3D printing molds use resin, which is time-consuming and has a high error rate. But the researchers developed a new method that uses glass slides as a base.

From a distance, the blood vessels look like delicate engravings on glass.

Microscopy video of 3D printed blood vessel coated in fibronectin(green) during an experiment. In one of the vessels you can see a blood clot forming (white). Credit: University of Sydney

Real-time insights into blood clot formation

"When it comes to heart attack and stroke diagnosis, speed and accuracy are key," says Charles, who is the first graduate student and founding member of the Ju Mechanobiology and Biomechanics Laboratory (MBL).

"Clinicians typically have an approximately 12-hour decision-making window after symptom onset."

"There is still a lot we don't understand about the inside of our blood vessels and what creates the cascade of events that lead to blood clots, and there are currently no bespoke testing platforms that can be tailored for patients. No two patients are biologically identical, and everyone has differences in their blood vessel structure and blood, influencing their risk of blood clot disease and their treatment options."

During testing, the researchers were able to witness, in real time and under the microscope, blood clot formation and the behavior of platelets, which are a crucial component involved in blood clotting that could lead to a stroke.

The technology revealed that the friction and force created by blood flow moving against the lining of the blood vessels played a huge part in platelet movement, which regulates clotting. This occurs during high blood pressure and atherosclerosis, a disease of the arteries.

In areas where there were high levels of stress placed on the blood vessels, the researchers found there were seven to 10 times more platelet movement.

Microprecision 3D fabrication of patient-specific Carotid Artery-Chip for personalized thrombotic assessment. Credit: Advanced Materials (2025). DOI: 10.1002/adma.202508890

Future directions: Digital twins and AI integration

The "artery on a chip" method successfully mimicked the physical appearance of blood vessels, and blood flow simulations generated similar fluid dynamics and movement of natural blood flow.

This was the standout moment, because the researchers said the biggest challenge in this field was re-creating the fluid dynamics of blood inside blood vessels. This detail is crucial because in people at risk of heart disease, blood is more viscous, which impacts how it flows through vessels.

"This is the first-of-its-kind bioengineering endeavor in Australia, and our work is aiming to solve two crucial gaps in heart disease diagnosis and prevention, without animal testing," said Dr. Zihao Wang, the postdoctoral chief engineer of MBL group.

Lab head and senior author Professor Arnold Ju said they had created a "physical twin" of the patient's blood vessels, an exact miniaturized replica that behaves like the real thing.

"Our next frontier is integrating artificial intelligence with our biofabrication platform to create true 'digital twins' that can predict stroke events before they happen, moving from reactive treatment to proactive prevention," says Helen Zhao, who is the postdoctoral digital scientist and operation manager of the MBL Ju lab.

"Imagine a future where we can take a patient's CT scan, rapidly print their blood vessel model, test their blood response, and use AI to predict their stroke risk years in advance."

More information: Yunduo Charles Zhao et al, Rapid GlassSubstrate Digital Light 3D Printing Enables Anatomically Accurate Stroke PatientSpecific Carotid ArteryonChips for Personalized Thrombosis Investigation, Advanced Materials (2025). DOI: 10.1002/adma.202508890 Journal information: Advanced Materials
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Thousands of clinical trial participants lost access to important medical studies this year after the Trump administration terminated hundreds of National Institutes of Health (NIH) grants, according to new research published in JAMA Internal Medicine.

The study found that 383 clinical trials had their NIH funding cut this year between late February and August, affecting more than 74,000 participants nationwide.

Many of the canceled studies focused on infectious diseases, including HIV and COVID-19, as well as mental health and cancer.

For researchers like Amy Nunn and Dr. Philip Chan at the Rhode Island Public Health Institute, the cuts brought their work to an immediate stop.

"I panicked," Nunn said to The Washington Post. "I was worried we might lose everything." Nunn is also a professor at Brown University School of Public Health in Providence, Rhode Island.

Their HIV prevention trial focused on Black and Hispanic men and the use of PrEP, a medication that reduces the risk of HIV infection. Enrollment at two sites had to stop completely, and a third only continued because the team pulled together emergency non-federal funding.

The new analysis shows that about 1 in 30 active trials lost funding. Studies involving infectious disease prevention and behavioral health were hit the hardest, along with more than 100 cancer trials.

Research conducted outside the United States also saw cuts.

While the Trump administration said the policy was aimed at stopping "wasteful" or "discriminatory" research, scientists say the cuts targeted critical public health work.

"Clinical research is a long game," Dr. Robert Hopkins, medical director for the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases, told The Post.

He added that the study showed how funding cuts disproportionately hit areas "that are critical to public health."

A federal judge later ordered hundreds of grants to be reinstated, including the PrEP trial led by Nunn and Chan. But many studies were already disrupted, sites had closed and folks lost access to care.

During the pause, a clinic in Jackson, Mississippione of the PrEP trial sitesshut down. Nunn said efforts are underway to reopen it.

"A lot of the clinical infrastructure was crippled or crushed because of the grant terminations, and it's hard to build it back," she said.

But Chan, also a professor in the department of medicine at Brown University, worries about the real-world impact of those who couldn't participate in the trial.

"I firmly believe that some of those folks got HIV," Chan said in a report published by The Post.

Even a temporary halt can harm studies that rely on steady medication use and consistent check-ins, researchers explained.

"If you pause an experiment, especially when it comes to experiments involving drugs and patients where you need a consistent dose over time and consistent measurements, it's possible that you just screwed up the entire research," lead author Dr. Vishal Patel of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston said to The Post.

In August, the Supreme Court allowed the administration to move forward with nearly $800 million in NIH grant cuts affecting research on diseases in minority, LGBTQ and transgender communities.

And many researchers fear more cuts are coming.

"The reason all of those 383 trials were funded is because people believe they have novel solutions to important public health questions," Nunn said. "The knowledge that we would have had about how we can enhance population health through those clinical trials will be lost."

 2025 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
China rebuffed President Donald Trumps proposal for nuclear arms control talks as unreasonable, even as Beijing has more than doubled the size of its arsenal, unveiled an expansive array of nuclear-capable missiles and laid the groundwork for new nuclear tests this decade. China has a stockpile of about 600 nuclear warheads  a small fraction of the number held by the United States or Russia, which have 3,700 and 4,300, respectively, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.



But, since 2020, the Chinese military has expanded and modernised its arsenal far faster than any other nuclear power, and its build-up has become a serious challenge to post-Cold War efforts to prevent another arms race, analysts say. Beijings unwillingness to engage with Washington about its nuclear build-up remains a point of significant disagreement in United States-China relations, even after Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping eased trade tensions with a truce in South Korea last month.



Heres what you need to know about Chinas nuclear weapons programme.



How fast is Chinas nuclear arsenal growing?



The exact size of Chinas nuclear arsenal is one of the Chinese militarys most closely guarded secrets, but independent experts and US officials agree that it has ballooned in the past five years. After the countrys last confirmed nuclear test in 1996, outside estimates put its stockpile of warheads between 200 and 300. In its annual report on the Chinese military, the Pentagon estimated in 2020 it was in the low 200s.



But that number has increased dramatically since then. By the end of last year, the same report estimated China had more than 600 warheads, with the potential to reach to 1,000 by 2030. Since 2020, China has also dramatically expanded its main nuclear testing site in the countrys remote northwest by adding buildings, electrical power lines and shafts drilled deep into the ground.



Experts say those underground chambers could be used to conduct nuclear tests that would be difficult to detect or for lower-level tests that assess safety and reliability of weapons without causing an explosion.



What does it mean for US?



The world was alerted to this paradigm shift in Chinas nuclear weapons programme in 2021, when analysts spotted vast fields of missile silos being constructed in remote parts of northwest China. By last year, the country had some 350 silos  nearly as many as US. Silos are underground vertical shafts of reinforced concrete and steel that are used to store and launch ballistic missiles.



The silo fields were just the first of several signs that Beijing was developing new ways to potentially fire nuclear warheads as far as the continental US and to strike American bases in Asia with smaller  but still powerful  low-yield nuclear weapons. China is now openly showing that it is developing a greater range of options  including missiles that can be launched from silos, dropped from long-range bombers and fired from submarines. A grand military parade in Beijing in September was the first time China displayed its ambitions to operate a full nuclear triad. At the parade, China also unveiled three nuclear-capable land-based missiles, including a mysterious truck-launched intercontinental ballistic missile, the DF-61, that appeared to be an improvement on existing missiles capable of hitting the continental US.



Chinese officials have not explained  or even acknowledged  that they have apparently changed their policy of maintaining the minimum number of nuclear weapons required to deter adversaries from attack. They have also not denied the build-up. Beijing still says it has a policy not to use nuclear weapons unless it is attacked first. But Chinese officials have increasingly talked about the need for a stronger strategic counterbalance  a phrase that probably means they see more formidable nuclear weapons as necessary to tip the balance of global power toward Beijing.



What are the prospects of arms-control talks?



Trumps trade truce with Xi was overshadowed by the US leaders decision, on the morning of talks, to direct the Pentagon to begin testing nuclear weapons on an equal basis with China and Russia. Trump followed up in a speech in Miami last week by saying that his administration may be working on a plan to denuclearise China, Russia and the US.



The proposal was met with a sharp rebuttal from Beijing. Chinas nuclear forces are not on the same scale as those of the US and Russia, Mao Ning, a spokesperson for Chinas Foreign Ministry, said when asked about the prospect of talks last week. It would be unfair, unreasonable and impractical to require China to join, she said.



Even with recent advances, China is still far from a nuclear peer with the US, said Eliana Johns, a senior research associate at the Federation of American Scientist. Chinas air-launched and sea-launched nuclear capabilities are nowhere near the size and sophistication of Russias or the United States, she said.




Several years back, a Muslim friend wanted to buy a home in Worli or Lower Parel. His budget was over Rs 5 crore. He suffered from a peculiar dilemma. The homes he liked were the ones where the builder was not willing to sell to Muslims.



Eventually he shortlisted one property where the builder was known to me. The builder was willing to give him a chance but candidly told me that his clothes and etiquette are modern, but we will yet need to do an extensive security check on his background. Hope your friend will not be offended by that.



I recalled that incident a couple of days after the November 10 attack near Red Fort, Delhi. The reaction of the Indian government might still be uncertain, but I am certain about the reaction of the housing market. As if it wasnt tough enough already, housing opportunities for Muslims will get even tougher. It will expose the worst-kept secret in the real estate business: Religion matters. And it matters even more if the religion is Islam.



Discrimination against Muslims is a controversial subject with several complex layers but two defences. One defence is that discrimination is not unique to Muslims. There are multiple types of discrimination. Bachelors and pet-owners are commonly rejected when house-hunting. Even non-vegetarians are not permitted to rent in certain buildings.



The second defence is that there is a trend across the world of people preferring to stay amidst their own community. Familiarity as well as common traditions and festivals ensure the environment is a conducive one for all. Hence the narrative of discrimination against just Muslims is untrue.



These are legitimate points, but it displays political correctness more than ground reality in my view. Discrimination against pet-owners and bachelors is true. But at a religion level  the discrimination is primarily against Muslims. Few Parsis, Christians, Hindus, Sikhs, etc, struggle in getting a home on account of their religion. Similarly, traditions are different across religions  so why are others acceptable but not those of Muslims?



The uncomfortable truth of the housing market is that Muslims struggle to get homes because most people see various risks with them. There are three arguments that are commonly placed. On one side is the hard-line view that members of the Muslim community can be a security and safety threat and thus are a risk as neighbours. At the centre is a view that has been fostered by looking at the shoddy and almost lawless conditions of Muslim-dominated localities.



Extrapolated further, this view claims that Muslims will not fit in an organised setup. On the other side is the financial point of view that says ownership of apartments by a meaningful number of Muslims in a particular project or locality often results in a decline in property values.



I have maintained for several years that blanket discrimination is not the answer as it only pushes Muslims further into ghettos. If societies and landlords have certain suspicions, the way to address that is to do a more rigorous background check to determine the compatibility and safety. The counterargument was simple and straightforward: How does one make that judgment?



It was a debate that was tilted against Muslims. With the November 10 terror attacks, the tilt will become one-sided. If even doctors are part of the strike, then the argument of those against selling to Muslims will find greater relevance as it will prove that education is not a counter to radicalisation and terror. I fear the next time a Muslim friend asks for help in buying a home  his money, modern clothes and etiquette will still not qualify him for certain builders and sellers. He will be pushed further into a ghetto and gradually even society will not notice.



Vishal Bhargava tracks Mumbais real estate




President Donald Trump has signalled that he may meet with New York Mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani after months of criticism and threats, telling reporters, Well work something out.



The mayor of New York, I will say, would like to meet with us, Trump told reporters last Sunday, referring to the 34-year-old democratic socialist mayor-elect whom he threatened to arrest just months ago in the run-up to New Yorks election.



He said Mamdani would like to come to Washington. Trump has branded Mamdani as bad news and a total nutjob, seeking to portray him as the face of an extremist opposition and repeatedly threatened to stop federal funds from going to New York if Mamdani won the election.



Mamdani, soon to be the citys first Muslim mayor, has referred to himself as Trumps worst nightmare and vowed to fight the president every step of the way. In response to Trumps July threat to arrest him if he blocked Immigration and Customs Enforcement raids in New York, Mamdani accused the president of attacking democracy.



We will not accept this intimidation, said Mamdani, who is of Indian descent but was born in Uganda and moved to the United States at age 7 before becoming a naturalised US citizen in 2018.



In his acceptance speech this month, Mamdani spoke to the president directly: So Donald Trump, since I know youre watching, I have four words for you: Turn the volume up, he said.



If anyone can show a nation betrayed by Donald Trump how to defeat him, it is the city that gave rise to him, Mamdani said as the global left celebrated his win  which also sparked condemnation in countries he has criticised, including Israel.



It is unclear when a meeting might take place, but Trump said Sunday that we want to see everything work out well for New York. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said no date has been set, the Associated Press reported. Mamdani will be sworn in as the 111th mayor of New York on January 1.



Representatives for Mamdani and the White House did not immediately return requests for comment early Monday.



Mamdani told NBC New York last week that he would be contacting the White House as he prepares to take office, saying the relationship will be critical to the success of the City. When asked what a conversation with Trump may sound like, Mamdani replied, Ill say that Im here to work for the benefit of everyone who calls the city home and that wherever there is a possibility for working together towards that end, Im ready, the Democrat said. And if its to the expense of those New Yorkers, I will fight it.



Washington Post




PHILADELPHIA (AP)  The U.S. ended production of the penny Wednesday, abandoning the 1-cent coins that were embedded in American culture for more than 230 years but became nearly worthless.

When it was introduced in 1793, a penny could buy a biscuit, a candle or a piece of candy. Now most of them are cast aside to sit in jars or junk drawers, and each one costs nearly 4 cents to make.

God bless America, and were going to save the taxpayers $56 million, Treasurer Brandon Beach said at the U.S. Mint in Philadelphia before hitting a button to strike the final penny. The coins were then carefully placed on a tray for journalists to see. The last few pennies were to be auctioned off.

Billions of pennies are still in circulation and will remain legal tender, but new ones will no longer be made.

Other coins have been discontinued, but the half-penny in 1857 was the last U.S. coin to be discontinued because of its low value, according to the U.S. Treasury Department.

Most penny production ended over the summer, officials said. During the final pressing, workers at the mint stood quietly on the factory floor as if bidding farewell to an old friend. When the last coins emerged, the men and women broke into applause and cheered one another.

Its an emotional day, said Clayton Crotty, who has worked at the mint for 15 years. But its not unexpected.

President Donald Trump ordered the pennys demise as costs climbed and the 1-cent valuation became virtually obsolete.

For far too long the United States has minted pennies which literally cost us more than 2 cents, Trump wrote in an online post in February. This is so wasteful!

Still, many Americans have a nostalgia for them, seeing pennies as lucky or fun to collect. And some retailers voiced concerns in recent weeks as supplies ran low and the end of production drew near. They said the phaseout was abrupt and came with no government guidance on how to handle transactions.

Some businesses rounded prices down to avoid shortchanging shoppers. Others pleaded with customers to bring exact change. The more creative among them gave out prizes, such as a free drink, in exchange for a pile of pennies.

We have been advocating abolition of the penny for 30 years. But this is not the way we wanted it to go, Jeff Lenard of the National Association of Convenience Stores said last month.

Proponents of eliminating the coin cited cost savings, speedier checkouts at cash registers and the fact that some countries have already eliminated their 1-cent coins. Canada, for instance, stopped minting its penny in 2012.

Some banks began rationing supplies, a somewhat paradoxical result of the effort to address what many see as a glut of the coins. Over the last century, about half the coins made at mints in Philadelphia and Denver have been pennies.

But they cost far less to produce than the nickel, which costs nearly 14 cents to make. The diminutive dime, by comparison, costs less than 6 cents to produce, and the quarter nearly 15 cents.

No matter their face value, collectors and historians consider them an important historical record. Frank Holt, an emeritus professor at the University of Houston who has studied the history of coins, laments the loss.

We put mottoes on them and self-identifiers, and we decide  in the case of the United States  which dead persons are most important to us and should be commemorated, he said. They reflect our politics, our religion, our art, our sense of ourselves, our ideals, our aspirations.

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Associated Press reporters Tassanee Vejpongsa in Philadelphia and Mark Scolforo in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, contributed to this report.

___

This story has been corrected to say the half-penny was the last U.S. coin of any denomination to have been discontinued because of its low value. It was not the last U.S. coin to be discontinued.

By MARYCLAIRE DALE

Associated Press
A Gustav Klimt portrait painting that helped save the life of its Jewish subject during the Holocaust sold Tuesday for $236.4 million, a record for a modern art piece.

Klimts Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer sold after a 20-minute bidding war at Sothebys in New York, where the flashiest item of the night was a solid gold, fully functioning toilet that went for $12.1 million.

The 6-foot-tall (1.8-meter-tall) portrait, painted over three years between 1914 and 1916, depicts the daughter of one of Viennas wealthiest families adorned in an East Asian emperors cloak. It is one of two full-length portraits by the Austrian artist that remain privately owned. The work was kept separate from other Klimt paintings that burned in a fire at an Austrian castle.

The colorful painting depicts the Lederer familys life of luxury before Nazi Germany annexed Austria in 1938. Nazis looted the Lederer art collection, leaving only the family portraits, which were considered too Jewish to be worth stealing, according to the National Gallery of Canada, where the painting was previously on loan.

In an attempt to save herself, Elisabeth Lederer made up a story that Klimt, who was not Jewish and died in 1918, was her father. It helped that the artist spent years working meticulously on her portrait.

With help from her former brother-in-law, a high-ranking Nazi official, she convinced the Nazis to give her a document stating that she descended from Klimt. That allowed her to remain safely in Vienna until she died of an illness in 1944.

The portrait was part of the collection of billionaire Leonard A. Lauder, heir to cosmetics giant The Estee Lauder Companies. He died this year at 92, leaving behind an impressive collection worth more than $400 million.

Sothebys declined to share the identity of the portraits buyer. The sale topped a previous record for 20th-century art set by an Andy Warhol portrait of Marilyn Monroe, which sold for $195 million in 2022.

Five Klimt pieces from Lauders collection sold at the auction for a total of $392 million, Sothebys said.

Pieces by Vincent van Gogh, Henri Matisse and Edvard Munch were among other notable sales.

Later in the evening, an 18-karat-gold toilet by Maurizio Cattelan  the provocative Italian artist known for taping a banana to a wall  hit the auction block. Cattelan has said the 223-pound (101-kilogram) piece, titled America, satirizes superwealth.

Whatever you eat, a $200 lunch or a $2 hot dog, the results are the same, toilet-wise, he once said.

The toilet, owned by an unnamed collector, was one of two that Cattelan created in 2016. The other was displayed in 2016 at New Yorks Guggenheim Museum, which pointedly offered to lend it to U.S. President Donald Trump when he asked to borrow a Van Gogh painting.

Then the piece was stolen while on display in England at Blenheim Palace, the country manor where Winston Churchill was born. Two men were convicted in the toilet heist, but its unclear what they did with the loo. Investigators arent privy to its whereabouts but believe it was likely broken up and melted down.

America was exhibited at Sothebys New York headquarters in the weeks leading up to the auction. Sothebys called the commode an incisive commentary on the collision of artistic production and commodity value.

By HANNAH SCHOENBAUM

Associated Press
MIDLAND, Ga. (AP)  Police officers in west Georgia shot and killed a man after he shot at them and shot and killed two of his stepchildren, law enforcement said.

The mans wife, Kelly Grigsby, told deputies she fled to a neighbors house with her 5-year-old child after her husband, Eric Grigsby, 50, threatened to kill her children. When officers arrived at their home at around 6:50 p.m. Monday in Midland, about 106 miles (170 km) south of Atlanta, Eric Grigsby walked out with two handguns, law enforcement said.

The officers told Grigsby to drop the guns, law enforcement said in a statement, but he pointed them at the deputies as he walked toward them. Deputies then shot a first round that struck Grigsby, and he fired back at them. Officers fired until Grigsby was shot to the ground and stopped moving. No deputies were hurt.

Grigsbys 16-year-old stepson was found to have been shot and was pronounced dead. Emergency medical personnel tried to save his 14-year-old stepson, who had also been shot, but he died.

The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the shooting.

The Deputies responded to the scene and did exactly as they were trained, Harris County Sheriff Mike Jolley said in a statement.
MADISON, Wis. (AP)  Plea negotiations with a Wisconsin judge accused of helping an immigrant evade federal agents are underway as her trial nears, the newly minted federal prosecutor overseeing the case said Tuesday.

Interim U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel told The Associated Press in a telephone interview that attorneys are discussing potential resolution of the case against Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan, but her attorneys havent shown theyre willing to accept any offer.

A plea agreement would mark a surprising de-escalation by prosecutors in a case that has become a flashpoint in President Donald Trumps sweeping immigration crackdown. Schimel said plea negotiations are part of a normal process to resolve a case and eliminate risk for both sides, to find a resolution that makes sense. Thats all.

Dugans defense attorneys said shes innocent and theyre preparing for a trial next month.

According to court documents, federal agents in April learned that an immigrant who was in the country illegally was scheduled to appear before Dugan in a state battery case. The agents traveled to the Milwaukee County Courthouse to apprehend the man, 31-year-old Eduardo Flores-Ruiz.

Dugan learned the agents were in the courthouse and showed Flores-Ruiz out of her courtroom through a private door. Flores-Ruiz was able to make his way outside, but agents captured him following a foot chase. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security announced Friday that he had been deported.

Dugan was arrested at the courthouse a week after the chase and a federal grand jury indicted her on charges of obstruction and concealing an individual to prevent arrest in May. Dugan has argued she did nothing wrong and she has complete authority over movement in her courtroom.

Her trial is set to begin Dec. 15. She could face up to six years in prison if convicted.

Dugans indictment has intensified the clash between the Trump administration and local authorities over the Republicans sweeping immigration crackdown.

Democrats have accused the Trump administration of trying to make an example of Dugan to blunt judicial opposition to the crackdown. The administration has worked to vilify her on social media. FBI Director Kash Patel posted a photo on the social platform X of Dugan being led out of the courthouse in handcuffs. And the U.S. Department of Homeland Security posted on X last week that Dugan has taken the term activist judge to a whole new meaning.

U.S. Attorney General Pamela Bondi on Monday appointed Schimel as the Eastern District of Wisconsins interim U.S. attorney. He replaces acting U.S. Attorney Richard Frohling, who brought the case against Dugan. Schimel served as Wisconsin attorney general from 2015 to 2019. Then-Gov. Scott Walker appointed him to a state judgeship after he lost reelection in 2018. He ran unsuccessfully for the state Supreme Court this past spring.

John Vaudreuil, a former U.S. attorney in Wisconsins Western District, said he was surprised that Schimel would comment publicly on plea negotiations, saying such discussions are private and announcing them could be seen as putting pressure on a defendant.

Still, he said that hes not surprised negotiations are taking place. During his stint as U.S. attorney, his office extended offers in most cases as a professional courtesy even if it appeared there was no middle ground, Vaudreuil said.

Schimel is likely taking orders from the upper echelons of the U.S. Department of Justice on how to handle Dugan, making the chances of a resolution short of trial slim, he said.

If the attorney general of the United States says it has to be a felony and it has to be jail time, I dont suspect thats where the defense is starting from, Vaudreuil said. When the case started, there were a lot of things said from on high that would make it difficult to come to a resolution of the case.

By TODD RICHMOND

Associated Press
HONG KONG (AP)  The Dutch government said Wednesday its relinquishing control of Chinese-owned chipmaker Nexperia, easing a standoff between China and the Netherlands that threatened supplies of semiconductors vital for global auto manufacturing.

Economics Affairs Minister Vincent Karremans said he was suspending an earlier order to take control of Nexperia under a rarely invoked Cold War-era law.

The Dutch government had cited national security concerns and serious governance shortcomings when it took effective control of Nexperia, which is headquartered in the city of Nijmegen but owned by Chinas Wingtech Technology. Officials said they were trying to prevent the loss of crucial tech know-how that could threaten Europes economic security.

Nexperia chips are widely used by carmakers in North America, Japan and South Korea. Automakers warned in recent weeks that they were running low on the chips, and Honda was forced to shut down a factory in Mexico producing its popular HR-V crossover for North American markets.

Karremans said he was suspending his order issued in late September as a show of goodwill in a decision that came after constructive meetings with Chinese authorities over the past few days.

In light of recent developments, The Netherlands has considered it the right moment to take a constructive step by suspending my order under the Goods Availability Act, he said in a statement.

We are positive about the measures already taken by the Chinese authorities to ensure the supply of chips to Europe and the rest of the world.

Chinas Commerce Ministry welcomed the decision, but said its only a first step in resolving the issue.

A Dutch court decision limiting Wingtechs control over Nexperia remains a key obstacle to resolving the issue, the ministry said. It added both countries should continue to work together on the matter.

The dispute is an example of how Europe is caught between Washington and Beijing in their rivalry over trade and tech. Netherlands issued its seizure order after the United States last year put Wingtech on its entity list of companies that face export controls, and then expanded it in September to include subsidiaries including Nexperia.

The boardroom battle included the ousting of Nexperias Chinese CEO, and Wingtech founder, Zhang Xuezheng. American officials had told the Dutch government he should be replaced to avoid trade restrictions, according to a court filing.

Beijing responded by blocking the export of Nexperia chips from its Chinese factory in early October, a ban it lifted in recent days as part of the U.S.-China trade truce following U.S. President Donald Trumps meeting with Chinese leader Xi Jinping.

The White House said it would suspend the expansion clause that covers subsidiaries for a year effective November 10.

Still, the companys Chinese unit and its Dutch headquarters have continued to spar over supply of wafers from fabrication plants in Europe to its assembly center in China.

Despite Karremans announcement, the dispute is still not fully resolved, according to the companies.

Wingtech said that if the Dutch government has the sincerity to solve the problem, it should file a notice explicitly withdrawing its support for court proceedings that resulted in Zhang being suspended as CEO.

The court proceedings are a threat to Nexperias continuity and therefore for the economic security of the Netherlands and Europe  which is the exact same argument the Dutch government made previously in support of judicial intervention.

Wingtech said it strongly rejects accusations from Karremans that Zhang was behind various acts of alleged mismanagement, saying no proof has been provided.

Nexperia said the Dutch governments announcement is a sign of significant progress but full restoration of the supply chain requires active further cooperation of Nexperias entities in China.

Nexperia was formerly part of Dutch electronics giant Philips and eventually purchased by Wingtech in 2018. It makes basic, standardized chips essential for running numerous automotive functions such as operating lights, airbag systems or anti-lock brakes. Modern cars can require hundreds of such components.

___

Kelvin Chan reported from London

By CHAN HO-HIM and KELVIN CHAN

AP Business Writers
One might wonder what Pushpa Kamal Dahal would say to his former loyalists who stood by him and his party despite the Maoist Centres declining popularity in recent years. Prachanda cares little about how others perceive him. As always, the supremo expects his loyalists to follow his instincts, driven by his desire to remain relevant in Nepali politics. It is no surprise he is often compared to a chameleon. Over the years, he has forged alliances with every major party, yet the outcomes have repeatedly fallen short of public expectations for effective governance and delivery. What seems certain is that he will never change his ways.

The recently stitched-together coalition of communist forcesexcluding the CPN-UMLappears more determined to bring down Olis UML than to offer genuine political reform. In the aftermath of the Gen Z revolt, the return of the old guard to contest the election is the last thing the public wants to see.

More than two months have passed since the unprecedented uprising that toppled the Oli government. A semblance of normalcy has begun to return, with Oli again making headlines for his contentious remarks. In the current landscape, the UMLs reluctance to participate in the March polls is subtly supported by another political heavyweightthe Nepali Congress. The key difference is that the UML remains firmly in favour of reinstating the dissolved parliament, while the NC is yet to clarify its position.

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Comparatively, the NC seems better positioned after the Gen Z revolt, with Deuba having vacated the party chair for a new leader. To many peoples surprise, Oli still believes he has much to offer his party and the nation. Meanwhile, leaders like Gagan Thapa and other second-generation figures want the party convention held before the election so they can enter the March polls under new leadership. What Deuba plans to do, however, remains unclear.

The emergence of new parties at this moment is unsurprising, as many seek to capitalise on public resentment toward established forces. But more parties also mean greater fragmentation, which ultimately benefits the same old political actors. Parties formed hastily ahead of elections often lack credibility; the public knows that building a political organisation grounded in firm ideological principles requires years of preparation.

It is speculated that the RSP may benefit from recent developments, yet the departure of several leaders suggests internal problems. In the coming electionif it takes placethe RSPs performance will be closely watched. The exit of Sumana Shrestha and Santosh Pariyar has not only weakened the party but also raised doubts among the public. In less than five years, the RSP established itself as a significant force, signalling that Nepali politics is no longer confined to a handful of major parties. But allegations linking the party chair to a cooperative scam have eroded public trust, leaving the party with the challenge of restoring its credibility.

The September uprising was a wake-up call for the political class. It is widely believed that the violent incidentsarson and vandalismwere triggered by infiltrators. Regardless of the cause, the unrest stemmed from deep dissatisfaction with political leaders, their repeated governance failures, and their inability to curb widespread corruption. Nepals Gen Z has demonstrated that young people are politically conscious, debunking the myth that youth are indifferent to politics. They deserve recognition for demanding a functional state. Yet the spontaneity of the revolution and its aftermath were overwhelming for a movement lacking strong leaders to guide the transition.

Days of negotiation resulted in an interim government led by Sushila Karki. Tasked with a single mandateto conduct the parliamentary electionshe now faces immense pressure, especially due to the UML and NCs uncertainty about participating in the polls. The Karki-led government must build trust among both old and new political actors by ensuring a conducive environment for fair elections. She cannot afford personal grievances, and her actions must align with democratic values. Time will reveal whether she can manage the parties and deliver an election on March 5.

Meanwhile, social media is flooded with appearances by Sudan Gurung, Durga Prasain, Nicholas Bhusal, Prabesh Dahal, Miraj Dhungana, and others. Durga Prasain was recently arrested for incendiary remarks ahead of the election. Populism has taken root in Nepali politics, with new faces regularly emerging to attack established leaders. These individuals have frequently spoken on sensitive issues ranging from constitutional reform to geopolitics.

At this critical junctureespecially when social media shapes political opinionthey must be cautious about how they present themselves. Balanced and responsible messaging can help create a healthier political atmosphere. Rather than provoking the public, figures like Durga Prasain should encourage people to vote and choose wisely. The beauty of democracy is that anyone who believes they can contribute to the nations progress is free to contest elections. Everyone is welcomeit is everyones country.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Aescby is an Old English name with deep roots in Anglo-Saxon Christian tradition. The name combines 'aesc' (ash tree) and 'by' (farm or settlement), reflecting the importance of nature in early Christian symbolism where trees often represented spiritual growth and connection to God. During the Christianization of England, names like Aescby became popular as they maintained cultural ties to the land while embracing the new faith.



The name was particularly significant during the 7th-9th centuries when Christianity was spreading throughout Anglo-Saxon England. Many early Christian leaders adopted or were given names like Aescby to symbolize their role as spiritual shepherds of their communities, with the ash tree representing strength and protection. The name appears in several historical records of monks, abbots, and local religious leaders who helped establish Christian communities across England, making it an important part of England's Christian heritage.
Individuals named Akiha are often perceived as having a protective and nurturing nature, reflecting the name's meaning of being 'guarded.' They tend to be watchful and caring toward others, often taking on roles as guardians or caretakers in their relationships and communities. This protective instinct is typically balanced with wisdom and discernment, making them trusted advisors and reliable friends who others turn to in times of need.



Akiha's personality often combines strength with sensitivity, demonstrating resilience in challenging situations while maintaining emotional awareness. They frequently exhibit loyalty and dedication to their principles and loved ones, with a strong sense of responsibility that guides their actions. Their protective nature isn't overbearing but rather manifests as supportive presence and thoughtful guidance, making them natural leaders who inspire confidence and trust in those around them.
People named Akin typically exhibit leadership qualities, confidence, and a strong protective instinct that aligns with the name's warrior heritage. They are often perceived as determined individuals with natural authority and the ability to inspire others. This manifests as resilience in facing challenges and a composed demeanor under pressure. Akins tend to be goal-oriented and persistent, approaching obstacles with strategic thinking rather than impulsive reactions.



Socially, Akins often become pillars in their communities, known for their loyalty and reliability. They balance strength with compassion, creating deep, meaningful relationships built on trust. While they can be assertive when necessary, this is typically tempered by wisdom and emotional intelligence. The cultural significance of their name often instills a sense of purpose and responsibility, leading many Akins to pursue paths that benefit their families and communities while maintaining personal integrity and moral courage.
Women named Alair typically exhibit a radiant, optimistic personality that naturally draws people toward them. Their cheerful disposition is not superficial but stems from a deep-seated resilience and ability to find joy in everyday moments. They possess excellent communication skills and emotional intelligence, making them natural mediators and trusted confidantes. Alairs often demonstrate a balanced combination of creativity and analytical thinking, allowing them to approach problems from multiple perspectives. Their intellectual curiosity drives them to continuous learning and personal growth, while their social nature ensures they share their insights generously with others. While generally outgoing, they value meaningful connections over superficial relationships and maintain a small circle of deep friendships. Their leadership style tends to be collaborative and inspiring rather than authoritarian, and they excel in environments that value both innovation and tradition.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Alan has rich cultural roots spanning Celtic, Breton, and English traditions. Originally borne by Celtic tribes who migrated throughout Europe, the name gained prominence through Saint Alan of Quimper in Brittany during the 5th century, helping establish its Christian significance. In medieval times, Alan became popular among Norman nobility following the conquest of England, with several prominent figures including Alan the Red and Alan the Black playing significant roles in English history. The name's association with nobility and leadership persisted through centuries, making it a staple in aristocratic families across Britain and France. Its Christian heritage was further solidified by various saints and religious figures named Alan, particularly in Celtic Christian communities where it symbolized both spiritual devotion and warrior strength.



During the 20th century, Alan maintained its prestige while becoming more accessible across social classes. The name's cross-cultural appeal expanded through globalization, with variations appearing in numerous languages while retaining core identity. In Christian contexts, Alan continues to be associated with intelligence, moral strength, and servicequalities embodied by both historical religious figures and modern bearers of the name. The name's enduring presence across 1,500 years of European history demonstrates its remarkable cultural resilience and adaptability.
Those bearing the name Alcinous are typically characterized by exceptional wisdom and diplomatic skill, reflecting the mythological king's ability to navigate complex social situations with grace and intelligence. They possess a natural authority that comes not from aggression but from demonstrated competence and fair judgment. These individuals excel as mediators and leaders because they listen carefully, weigh multiple perspectives, and make decisions that consider the wellbeing of all involved. Their hospitality extends beyond mere politeness to genuine care for others' welfare, creating environments where people feel safe to be vulnerable and authentic.



Alcinous-types demonstrate remarkable emotional intelligence, able to read people and situations with unusual accuracy. They combine intellectual depth with practical wisdom, making them excellent problem-solvers who can see the bigger picture while attending to important details. Their strength lies in their ability to create harmony and facilitate connections between diverse individuals. While they command respect, they lead through inspiration rather than intimidation, and their legacy is often measured by the positive impact they have on others' lives and journeys.
Individuals named Alvah are often perceived as possessing a natural dignity and quiet authority that aligns with the name's meaning of 'exalted one.' They tend to be thoughtful, introspective, and principled, with a strong sense of personal integrity that guides their decisions. Many Alvahs demonstrate leadership qualities not through loud dominance but through consistent reliability and moral conviction. Their sublime nature often manifests as artistic sensitivity, intellectual depth, or spiritual awareness, making them drawn to philosophical pursuits, creative expression, or humanitarian causes. While sometimes reserved, Alvahs typically form deep, lasting relationships and are valued for their wisdom and steadfastness in challenging situations.



The name Alvah suggests a personality that balances tradition with innovationrespectful of established ways while open to new ideas. Alvahs often exhibit patience and perseverance, understanding that meaningful achievements require sustained effort. They may be perceived as somewhat serious or contemplative, but this depth typically conceals a dry wit and keen observational skills. In professional settings, Alvahs often excel in roles requiring ethical judgment, strategic thinking, or creative problem-solving. Their combination of traditional values and forward-thinking approach makes them effective bridges between different generations or perspectives, while their inherent dignity commands respect without demanding it.
Women named Angeletta are often perceived as gentle, compassionate individuals with a natural grace that puts others at ease. They tend to possess strong intuitive abilities and emotional intelligence, making them excellent listeners and trusted confidantes. The name suggests someone who approaches life with optimism and sees the good in people, often serving as a peacemaker in difficult situations. Angelettas typically exhibit artistic sensibilities and creative talents, whether in visual arts, music, or writing.



While they appear delicate, many Angelettas develop surprising inner strength and resilience, particularly when defending their values or protecting loved ones. Their combination of sensitivity and determination often makes them effective in caregiving professions or creative fields where empathy and vision are essential. They value harmony in their relationships and environments, and may struggle with conflict or harsh criticism. The name implies a person who brings comfort and inspiration to others while maintaining a quiet dignity and moral compass that guides their actions.
Symbolically, Annwn represents the ultimate threshold - the permeable boundary between the known world and the realm of mystery, imagination, and spiritual truth. It embodies the Celtic concept of 'caer sidi' or revolving castle, symbolizing the cyclical nature of existence and the ever-changing perspectives through which we understand reality. The name carries deep metaphorical significance as a representation of the human psyche's hidden depths - that inner landscape where creativity, intuition, and ancestral wisdom reside. Like the magical cauldron sought in Annwn, the name symbolizes transformation, inspiration, and the alchemical process of turning base experience into golden understanding. It represents the eternal human quest for perfection and meaning while acknowledging the beauty and necessity of the imperfect mortal journey. In ecological terms, Annwn symbolizes humanity's connection to the natural world and the hidden ecosystems that sustain visible life. The name ultimately serves as a reminder that wonder and mystery are never far away - they exist just beyond the veil of ordinary perception, waiting to be discovered by those with eyes to see.
Individuals named Arawn are often perceived as possessing deep, introspective qualities combined with natural leadership abilities. They tend to be mysterious yet principled, with a strong sense of justice and loyalty that echoes the mythological king's character. These personalities frequently demonstrate wisdom beyond their years and have a contemplative nature that draws others to seek their counsel. There's often an air of quiet authority about them, and they typically prefer to lead through example rather than command. While they may appear reserved initially, those who earn their trust discover fiercely loyal companions who value deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections.



Their personality often includes a strong connection to tradition and history, combined with an innovative spirit that allows them to bridge old wisdom with new contexts. People named Arawn tend to be excellent problem-solvers who approach challenges with strategic thinking and emotional intelligence. They often possess a dry wit and appreciate intellectual humor, though they rarely seek the spotlight. Their strength lies in their ability to see beneath surface appearances and understand complex systems and relationships. This makes them particularly effective in roles requiring mediation, strategic planning, or creative problem-solving where multiple perspectives must be balanced and integrated.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Arcilla holds deep cultural significance in Spanish-speaking communities, particularly those with indigenous roots. In many Mesoamerican traditions, clay was considered sacred material used to create ceremonial objects and altars. The name evokes the concept of 'altar of heaven' through its connection to earth elements that bridge the physical and spiritual realms. Throughout Spanish colonial history, the name became associated with artisans and craftspeople who worked with clay, creating both practical pottery and religious artifacts.



In modern times, Arcilla represents a connection to ancestral traditions and earth-based spirituality, often chosen by families wishing to honor their cultural heritage while embracing contemporary values of environmental consciousness and artistic expression. The name carries forward the legacy of indigenous wisdom that views the earth as sacred and recognizes the divine presence in natural materials. This cultural resonance makes Arcilla particularly meaningful in communities seeking to preserve traditional values while adapting to modern life.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Athelstan holds profound cultural significance as one of the most important names in English history, representing the unification of England under a single ruler. The name is intrinsically linked to King thelstan (894-939 AD), grandson of Alfred the Great, who is widely regarded as the first true King of all England. His reign marked a pivotal moment in English history, establishing the foundations of the English monarchy and creating a unified Anglo-Saxon kingdom that would shape the nation's identity for centuries to come.



The name embodies the cultural and political aspirations of the Anglo-Saxon period, symbolizing nobility, leadership, and the establishment of English national identity. In literature and historical tradition, Athelstan represents the ideal of Christian kingship and the unification of disparate Anglo-Saxon kingdoms against Viking invaders. The name's continued use in modern times reflects a connection to England's ancient heritage and serves as a reminder of the nation's foundational monarchical traditions. The legacy of King Athelstan established patterns of governance, law, and cultural identity that would influence English development for generations, making the name synonymous with the very concept of English nationhood.
Women named Attracta are often perceived as charismatic and spiritually inclined individuals with a natural ability to draw people toward them. They typically possess a quiet strength and magnetic presence that makes others feel comfortable and valued in their company. These individuals often demonstrate deep empathy and intuition, with a tendency toward nurturing and healing professions where they can support others' wellbeing.



Their spiritual nature doesn't necessarily mean religious devotion, but rather a profound connection to deeper meanings and purposes in life. Attractas are frequently described as having old soulswise beyond their years with a calm, centered presence that provides stability during turbulent times. They balance traditional values with progressive thinking, often serving as bridges between different perspectives or communities. While they may appear reserved initially, their warmth and genuine interest in others create lasting connections and loyal friendships.
Those bearing the name Avicenna are typically associated with exceptional intellectual capacity and a systematic approach to problem-solving. They demonstrate natural curiosity across multiple domains, often excelling in both scientific and humanitarian fields. This name suggests a personality that values knowledge not as an end in itself, but as a means to improve human welfare and understanding. Such individuals are often perceived as bridge-builders who can synthesize different perspectives and create cohesive systems of thought.



The name also implies strong ethical foundations and a sense of responsibility toward community and humanity. People named Avicenna tend to be perceived as wise beyond their years, with a calm demeanor that masks intense intellectual activity. They often exhibit leadership qualities rooted in competence rather than authority, earning respect through demonstrated knowledge and practical wisdom. Their approach to life combines rigorous analysis with creative insight, making them effective innovators who respect tradition while pushing boundaries of understanding.
Individuals named Aylmer often exhibit a complex blend of aristocratic dignity and intense ambition. They tend to be natural leaders with strong convictions and a determined, sometimes stubborn, approach to achieving their goals. The name carries an air of old-world sophistication combined with intellectual depth, suggesting someone who values tradition while pursuing innovative ideas. However, the 'infamous' aspect of the name hints at potential character flawsAylmers may struggle with pride or overconfidence, sometimes leading to dramatic failures despite initial success. They often possess keen analytical minds and artistic sensibilities, but their strong-willed nature can make them either inspiring visionaries or difficult perfectionists.



This combination of noble aspirations and potential for dramatic downfall creates a personality type that is both compelling and cautionary, embodying the classic tragic hero archetype in modern form. Aylmers typically display remarkable resilience and learning capacity from their mistakes, often transforming early failures into later wisdom. Their intellectual curiosity drives them to master complex subjects, while their inherent dignity commands respect even in adversity. The name suggests someone who walks a fine line between genius and madness, capable of great achievements but vulnerable to the very ambition that fuels their success. This psychological complexity makes Aylmers fascinating individuals who often leave significant markswhether positive or negativeon their chosen fields.
Individuals named Bankole are often characterized by a natural authority and commanding presence that inspires confidence in others. They typically possess strong leadership qualities, combined with a deep sense of responsibility toward their community and family. These individuals tend to be strategic thinkers who approach challenges with careful consideration and wisdom beyond their years, often serving as pillars of strength during difficult times.



Bankoles are known for their loyalty and protective nature, particularly toward those they consider under their care. They exhibit a blend of traditional values and progressive thinking, making them effective bridges between different generations and cultural perspectives. While they can be reserved in expressing emotions, their actions consistently demonstrate commitment and reliability. Their quiet confidence and determination often lead them to positions of influence where they can make meaningful contributions to society.
Individuals named Bickford are often perceived as practical, resourceful, and grounded, reflecting the name's origins connected to skilled labor and natural environments. They tend to exhibit strong problem-solving abilities and a methodical approach to challenges, much like the hewers and craftsmen from whom the name derives. Bickfords are typically seen as reliable and steadfast, with a strong sense of tradition and family heritage that gives them a natural authority and depth of character.



Their personality often combines intellectual curiosity with hands-on capability, making them equally comfortable with theoretical concepts and practical applications. This balance between thought and action gives Bickfords a unique ability to bridge different worlds - whether academic and practical, traditional and modern, or creative and analytical. They often possess a quiet confidence that comes from knowing their capabilities and heritage, making them natural leaders who lead by example rather than by command, and valued community members who build lasting foundations wherever they go.
Individuals named Bradleah are often perceived as grounded and dependable, with a strong connection to traditional values and community. The 'broad meadow' meaning suggests someone who is open-minded yet stable, capable of providing space for others to grow while maintaining firm roots in their beliefs and principles. These individuals typically exhibit a calm demeanor and practical approach to problem-solving, making them natural leaders in family and community settings.



Bradleahs tend to be patient and nurturing, with an innate understanding of growth processes whether in relationships, projects, or spiritual development. They often possess a quiet strength that others find reassuring, combined with a creative vision that allows them to see potential where others might not. Their personality blends the steadfast reliability of the 'broad' aspect with the life-giving qualities of the 'meadow,' creating individuals who are both anchors and cultivators in their social circles and professional endeavors.
Austin Butler is just "friends" with Emily Ratajkowski.

Austin Butler isn't dating Emily Ratajkowski

The Elvis star, 34, was recently pictured having dinner with the model, also 34, in New York City but the actor has now shot down rumours of a budding romance between the pair.

When asked about the dating rumours, he told Vanity Fair magazine: "The true answer is that I have a lot of friends, and were friends and we had dinner, and that were friends."

He went on to add that he's never felt comfortable with scrutiny of his private life but he's now trying not to worry so much about what other people think.

He said: "I just wanted to hide ... " before adding: "Im going to live a constricted small life because Im afraid of what other people are going to say or what theyre going to think?"

Austin also opened up about going off-grid for a recent camping trip and revealed he enjoyed being "away from the noise" during his time in the wilderness.

He said: "Its so humbling when youre away from the noise. More and more I want that in my life, just not tuning into that noise."

The actor split from his longtime girlfriend, model Kaia Gerber, in January after three years of dating.

Kaia recently opened up about her love life and admitted she used to be "willing to give up everything" in her relationships.

The 24-year-old catwalk star - who has also datedPete Davidson, 31, and Jacob Elordi, 28, in the past - revealed she used to "change her personality" for her partner.

Without specifying which ex she was talking about, she told Jake Shane's Therapuss podcast: "I used to be the opposite way where I would completely just change my personality, really, my values for someone.

"I always dated people that were older than me, and so I was very willing to give up everything."

Kaia pointed out that it's "not good in the long run" to make yourself fit a partner's expectations.

She explained: "I was like, I can show you I love you by completely, giving up my life for you, which is actually not how you build respect and trust and is not good in the long run.

"Because then you start to bring a little bit more of who you really are into the relationship. And they're like, No, I like that person before.'."

The model - who is now dating Lewis Pullman, 32 - has grown to realise she wasn't totally to blame for the way her past relationships went.

She said: "It's my fault. But well, it's also their fault."
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Brasil holds deep significance in Celtic culture as a warrior name that embodies the ancient Celtic values of courage, honor, and battlefield prowess. In Celtic mythology and historical records, individuals named Brasil were often chieftains, warriors, or leaders who played crucial roles in defending Celtic territories and maintaining cultural traditions. The name appears in various Celtic genealogies and heroic tales, particularly in Irish and Scottish traditions where it was borne by figures who resisted foreign invasions and preserved Celtic sovereignty.



Throughout Celtic history, the name Brasil became associated with leadership during times of conflict and cultural preservation. It was particularly prominent during the medieval period when Celtic kingdoms faced external threats from Vikings, Normans, and later English forces. The name carries echoes of ancient Celtic battle traditions, where personal names often reflected one's expected role in society and connection to tribal identity. In modern Celtic revival movements, the name has seen renewed interest as a symbol of cultural resilience and historical continuity.
Women named Bryani typically exhibit nurturing and compassionate qualities, often drawn to caregiving roles where they can support others' growth and healing. They tend to be patient and resilient individuals, capable of adapting to changing circumstances while maintaining their core values and connections to others. Their personality often combines practical wisdom with emotional intelligence, making them excellent mediators and problem-solvers in both personal and professional settings.



Bryanis are frequently described as having a calming presence and intuitive understanding of others' needs. They often demonstrate strong observational skills and a deep appreciation for natural beauty and traditional knowledge. Many develop interests in healing arts, education, or environmental work, reflecting their innate desire to nurture growth and restoration in their communities. Their strength is typically quiet but profoundlike the vine their name references, they can cover great distances emotionally and intellectually while remaining grounded in their principles and relationships.
Individuals named Burel are often perceived as grounded, practical, and reliable, with a strong connection to tradition and heritage. They typically exhibit a warm, earthy personality that reflects the name's association with natural brown tones and textile craftsmanship. Burels are often seen as dependable individuals who value stability and consistency in their relationships and endeavors, bringing a sense of security and trustworthiness to their personal and professional relationships.



Their personality tends to blend French sophistication with rustic authenticity, making them both cultured and approachable. Many Burels demonstrate a strong work ethic and attention to detail, qualities that may stem from the name's artisanal origins in textile production. They often possess a quiet confidence and prefer substance over flashiness, embodying the enduring qualities of their name's historical roots while maintaining contemporary relevance through their practical wisdom and steadfast character. This combination of traditional values and modern adaptability makes Burels particularly effective in roles requiring both historical perspective and contemporary application.
Individuals named Camden are often perceived as creative, adaptable, and independent thinkers. They tend to possess a natural curiosity and artistic sensibility, combined with practical intelligence that allows them to navigate complex situations. The 'winding valley' etymology suggests someone who is comfortable with life's twists and turns, demonstrating resilience and flexibility in facing challenges. Camden's typically exhibit strong communication skills and social awareness, making them effective in collaborative environments while maintaining their unique perspective.



These individuals often balance traditional values with modern sensibilities, creating a personality that is both grounded and innovative. They tend to be good problem-solvers who can see multiple perspectives and find creative solutions. The urban associations of the name contribute to a personality that is socially engaged, culturally aware, and comfortable in diverse environments. Camden's are often seen as reliable yet adventurous, capable of providing stability while embracing new experiences and opportunities for growth.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Camlann represents one of the most pivotal moments in Arthurian legendthe catastrophic final battle that ended King Arthur's reign and the age of Camelot. In medieval Welsh and English texts, this battlefield serves as the dramatic climax where Arthur's ideals collided with the harsh reality of betrayal and civil war. The cultural impact of Camlann extends beyond mere historical location; it has become a symbol of tragic destiny and the inevitable fall of great civilizations. Throughout centuries of retelling, from Geoffrey of Monmouth to Tennyson and modern adaptations, Camlann has maintained its power as a metaphor for noble defeat and the price of maintaining principles in a changing world. The name evokes the profound melancholy of lost glory while celebrating the courage required to face one's destiny, however grim it may be.



The battle's cultural resonance has influenced everything from political discoursewhere 'Camlann' might describe a final, principled standto psychological interpretations of confronting one's mortality. In British cultural memory, particularly in Wales and Cornwall where the battle is often locally claimed, Camlann represents both a historical mystery and a spiritual touchstone. The ongoing scholarly debate about its actual location only enhances its mythical quality, allowing each generation to reinterpret its significance while preserving its core meaning as the place where legends meet their end and new beginnings become possible through sacrifice.
Women named Caoilfhinnn are often perceived as possessing an elegant grace that extends beyond physical appearance to their mannerisms and approach to life. They typically exhibit a quiet confidence and refined sensibility, moving through the world with a natural poise that others find compelling. Their slender description translates metaphorically to an ability to navigate complex situations with flexibility and subtlety, often finding elegant solutions where others see only obstacles. There's a contemplative quality to their nature, combined with artistic sensitivity that makes them drawn to beauty in all its forms.



In relationships, Caoilfhinnns tend to be loyal and deeply intuitive, possessing an ability to understand unspoken emotions and subtle social dynamics. They often serve as peacemakers and mediators, using their diplomatic skills to harmonize conflicting viewpoints. While they may appear reserved initially, they reveal a warm, witty personality to those they trust. Their combination of mental agility and emotional intelligence makes them excellent problem-solvers who approach challenges with creativity and patience rather than brute force. The name suggests someone who values authenticity and depth in all aspects of life.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Caraid holds deep significance in Irish culture as a name that embodies the fundamental Celtic value of friendship and community. In ancient Irish society, the concept of 'cara' (friend) was sacred, with friendships often formalized through rituals and considered as binding as blood relationships. The name reflects the Irish cultural emphasis on interpersonal bonds, hospitality, and loyalty that have characterized Gaelic society for centuries. Throughout Irish literary tradition, from ancient sagas to modern poetry, the theme of friendship appears as a central virtue, making Caraid a name that carries this rich cultural heritage.



The name gained particular prominence during the Gaelic Revival of the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when many traditional Irish names were reclaimed as symbols of cultural identity. In contemporary Ireland, Caraid represents a connection to linguistic and cultural traditions while maintaining modern appeal. The name's meaning resonates with the Irish concept of 'anam cara' (soul friend), which in Celtic spirituality describes a deep, spiritual friendship that transcends ordinary relationships.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Chadwik has deep roots in English Christian tradition, originating from Old English elements that reflect both martial and communal values. The name combines 'cead' (war) and 'wic' (settlement or dwelling), suggesting a protected community or warrior's village. This reflects the medieval Christian ideal of the warrior-protector who defends his community while maintaining strong spiritual foundations. Throughout English history, the name has been associated with families of standing who balanced military service with Christian devotion, embodying the concept of the Christian knight who serves both God and community.



The name's persistence through centuries demonstrates its enduring appeal in Christian naming traditions, particularly among families valuing both strength of character and religious commitment. In modern times, it continues to represent the ideal of the Christian gentleman - someone who combines inner strength with moral integrity and community responsibility. The name carries with it a legacy of service, protection, and faithful stewardship that resonates across generations.
Women named Chelan are often perceived as possessing a calm, reflective nature similar to the serene lake their name represents. They tend to be intuitive, emotionally deep, and possess a natural grace that draws others to them. Their personality typically combines strength with gentleness, much like water that can be both powerful and soothing. Chelans are often creative individuals with strong aesthetic sensibilities, appreciating beauty in all forms. They tend to be good listeners and provide emotional support to those around them, creating a peaceful atmosphere wherever they go.



While generally calm, they can display remarkable resilience and adaptability when facing challenges, reflecting water's ability to flow around obstacles while maintaining its essential nature. Their emotional depth allows them to form meaningful connections with others, and they often serve as pillars of stability in their relationships. The name suggests someone who is both grounded and spiritually attuned, capable of deep contemplation while remaining practically engaged with the world. This balance between inner reflection and outward engagement makes Chelans valued friends, partners, and community members.
Women named Christianna are typically characterized by a blend of strength and sensitivity that makes them both resilient and empathetic. They often possess a natural grace and poise that others find appealing, combined with a strong sense of personal integrity and moral conviction. Christiannas tend to be thoughtful decision-makers who consider multiple perspectives before acting, demonstrating wisdom beyond their years. Their compassionate nature often draws them toward helping professions or volunteer work where they can make a tangible difference in people's lives.



In social settings, Christiannas are known for their loyalty and reliability as friends, often serving as the emotional anchor in their relationships. They typically exhibit excellent communication skills and a diplomatic approach to conflict resolution. Many Christiannas display creative talents, particularly in artistic or literary pursuits, and have a keen appreciation for beauty in various forms. Their combination of traditional values and progressive thinking allows them to navigate complex social landscapes with confidence and authenticity, making them respected members of their communities.
Daniel Radcliffe sent a message of support to new Harry Potter Dominic McLaughlin.

Daniel Radcliffe has sent his support to Dominic McLoughlin

The 36-year-old actor shot to fame playing the boy wizard in the movie franchise from 2001 to 2011, and he reached out to the 11-year-old newcomer to wish him luck in playing the same character in the upcoming TV adaptation.

Daniel said on Good Morning America: "I wouldnt say that anyone who is going to play Harry has to [reach out].

"And I have a very sweet, I know a few people who are working on the production so I wrote to Dominic and I sent him a letter and he sent me a very sweet note back."

The Woman in Black star noted he didn't want "to be a spectre in the light of these children", referring to Dominic, Alastair Stout (Ron Weasley) and Arabella Stanton (Hermione Granger), but was keen to wish his successor well.

He added: "I just wanted to write to him to say, I hope you have the best time, and an even better time than I did  I had a great time, but I hope you have an even better time.' And I do."

Daniel, who was also 11 when he filmed the first Harry Potter movie, can't help but feel an urge to protect the new young stars.

He said: "I just see these pictures of him and the other kids and I just want to hug them.

"They just seem so young. I just look at them and say, Oh its crazy I was doing that. But its also incredibly sweet and I hope theyre having a great time."

Daniel previously ruled out having a cameo role in the series.

He told ComicBook.com: "My understanding is that they're trying to very much start fresh and I'm sure whoever is making them will want to make their own mark on it and probably not want to have to figure out how to get old Harry to cameo in this somewhere."

Some fans have been hoping Daniel might make a little appearance alongside Rupert Grint (Ron Weasley) and Emma Watson (Hermione Granger), but he doesn't think it's on the cards.

However, the Miracle Workers star insisted he wishes the team "all the luck in the world" with bringing the Harry Potter books to life for a new audience.

He added: "So I'm definitely not seeking it out in any way.

"But I do wish them, obviously, all the luck in the world and I'm very excited to have that torch passed. But I don't think it needs me to physically pass it."
Cultural & Historical Significance

Clarrisa has strong Christian cultural roots, derived from the Latin 'clarus' meaning 'bright, clear, famous.' The name gained prominence through Saint Clare of Assisi in the 13th century, founder of the Order of Poor Ladies (Poor Clares) and follower of Saint Francis of Assisi. Her devotion to poverty and charitable works made the name popular among Christian families seeking to honor her legacy. In literature, Samuel Richardson's 1748 novel 'Clarissa' established the name as representing virtue, intelligence, and moral strength in Western culture. The name carries connotations of purity and illumination, often chosen for girls born around Christian holidays or those expected to bring light into their families.



The name's Christian significance extends beyond Saint Clare to represent spiritual clarity and divine illumination. Many Christian families choose Clarrisa to symbolize their hope that their daughter will be a light in the world and maintain moral clarity throughout her life. The name's association with famous literary characters has also cemented its place in Western cultural heritage, representing educated, virtuous women who navigate complex social situations with grace and intelligence. This dual heritage of religious and literary importance gives Clarrisa enduring cultural relevance across generations.
Individuals bearing the name Cleary often exhibit intellectual curiosity and a natural inclination toward learning and analysis. They tend to be methodical thinkers with strong attention to detail, reflecting the scholarly heritage embedded in their name. Many Clearys demonstrate excellent communication skills and enjoy sharing knowledge with others, whether through teaching, writing, or mentorship. There's often a quiet confidence about them, coupled with a sense of responsibility toward preserving traditions and accurate information.



They typically value education highly and may show patience in problem-solving, preferring thorough understanding over quick solutions. While often reserved in social settings, they form deep, meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and intellectual connection. The name suggests someone who is reliable, thoughtful, and likely to excel in fields requiring precision and dedication. There's also an inherent sense of history and continuity that may manifest as respect for traditions and family heritage.
People named Clive are typically perceived as possessing a calm, steady demeanor combined with intellectual depth and strong principles. They tend to be the type of individuals who think before they speak, offering well-considered opinions rather than impulsive reactions. This thoughtful approach extends to their relationships, where they value authenticity and loyalty above superficial connections. Clives often exhibit a quiet confidence that doesn't need constant validation from others, making them natural leaders in situations requiring stability and wisdom. Their association with cliff imagery suggests both strength and perspectivethey're seen as people who can weather storms while maintaining clear vision. In professional settings, Clives are often respected for their reliability and analytical skills, while in personal relationships they're valued for their steadfastness and emotional consistency. This combination of intellectual rigor and emotional stability makes them particularly effective in roles requiring both compassion and clear judgment.
Individuals named Corrado are typically perceived as possessing a unique blend of boldness and wisdom. They often exhibit strong leadership qualities combined with thoughtful deliberation, making them natural counselors and decision-makers. Their 'bold' aspect manifests as courage in facing challenges and willingness to take calculated risks, while their 'sage' dimension shows in careful analysis and insightful advice. Corrados tend to be respected for their balanced approach to problems, combining intuition with rational thinking. They often serve as pillars in their communities or workplaces, valued for their reliability and sound judgment.



This combination of traits makes them effective in roles requiring both assertiveness and diplomacy, able to navigate complex situations with grace and determination. Their personality typically evolves with maturity, often starting with more prominent bold characteristics in youth that become tempered by increasing wisdom and experience over time. Corrados are often seen as dependable friends and family members who provide steady support during crises while maintaining a calm, reasoned perspective. They tend to excel in professions that require both strategic thinking and interpersonal skills, such as law, education, management, or counseling, where their natural inclination toward guidance and their courageous approach to challenges can find full expression.
Women bearing the name Countess are typically perceived as possessing natural leadership qualities, refined elegance, and a strong sense of responsibility. They often exhibit grace under pressure, diplomatic skills, and the ability to command respect without being authoritarian. The name suggests someone who is sophisticated, well-mannered, and possesses an innate understanding of social hierarchies and etiquette. There's an expectation of wisdom and maturity beyond their years, along with a dignified presence that makes them natural centers of attention in social settings.



Beyond the surface elegance, the Countess personality often includes strategic thinking, organizational ability, and a protective nature toward those in their care. They tend to be decisive when necessary but prefer to lead through consensus and mutual respect. The name implies a woman who balances traditional values with modern sensibilities, maintaining her principles while adapting to changing circumstances. There's often a strong sense of legacy and heritage, with Countesses typically being conscious of their impact on future generations and committed to preserving what they consider important traditions and values.
Individuals named Coyan typically exhibit a grounded, unpretentious nature characterized by quiet confidence rather than overt ambition. They tend to be observant and thoughtful, preferring to listen more than they speak, which often makes them excellent judges of character and situations. Their modesty isn't born of insecurity but rather a genuine humility that allows them to appreciate others' qualities without feeling threatened. This creates a calming presence that others find reassuring and trustworthy in both personal and professional relationships.



Coyans often demonstrate remarkable perseverance and dedication to their chosen pursuits, whether in creative fields, academic endeavors, or skilled trades. They approach challenges with quiet determination rather than dramatic flair, earning respect through consistent effort rather than self-promotion. Their strength lies in their reliability and depth of characterthey build meaningful connections and accomplish significant work without seeking external validation. This combination of humility and competence makes them valued team members, loyal friends, and steady partners who contribute substantially to their communities while remaining comfortably in the background.
Individuals named Dalton are often perceived as grounded, practical, and connected to their roots, reflecting the name's agricultural origins. They typically exhibit strong work ethics, reliability, and a methodical approach to problem-solving, much like the steady farmers who originally bore this surname. Many Daltons demonstrate natural leadership qualities combined with a collaborative spirit, able to work well in team settings while maintaining their individual perspective.



There's often a blend of traditional values with modern adaptability, allowing them to honor heritage while embracing contemporary challenges. Their connection to 'the dale' suggests both a love for nature and a pragmatic understanding of working with the land, which can translate into environmental awareness and sustainable thinking in modern contexts. Psychologically, the name suggests someone who provides stability and shelter to others, much like a valley protects from harsh elements, while also being productive and resourceful like a well-managed farm.
Daphne has experienced a significant resurgence in popularity in recent decades, particularly in English-speaking countries. After being relatively uncommon in the mid-20th century, the name began climbing popularity charts in the 1990s and has maintained steady usage into the 21st century. It currently ranks within the top 500 names in the United States and shows similar trends in the UK, Australia, and Canada. The name appeals to modern parents seeking a classic yet distinctive name with literary and mythological connections. Its elegant sound and positive associations make it a popular choice for those wanting a name that is both traditional and unique. The character Daphne Bridgerton from the popular Netflix series has further boosted its contemporary appeal, introducing the name to new generations while maintaining its timeless quality.
Individuals named Dassais are typically perceived as possessing strong leadership qualities combined with deep spiritual insight. They often exhibit natural authority and confidence, making them effective in positions requiring decision-making and guidance. Their analytical minds allow them to assess situations thoroughly before acting, while their inherent dignity commands respect from others. Dassais bearers are known for their loyalty to principles and traditions, often serving as pillars within their communities.



They balance ambition with compassion, demonstrating concern for those under their care while pursuing meaningful goals. Their strength of character is typically matched by a quiet determination and resilience in facing challenges. While they may appear reserved initially, they reveal warmth and wisdom to those who earn their trust, making them valued advisors and friends. This combination of intellectual depth and emotional intelligence enables them to navigate complex social and professional situations with grace and effectiveness, often becoming respected figures in their chosen fields.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name DeHaan has deep roots in Dutch culture as a topographic surname originating during the Middle Ages when surnames became necessary for taxation purposes. It typically referred to individuals who lived in houses marked with a rooster symbol, which was common in Dutch urban areas where houses were identified by signs rather than numbers. The rooster held significant symbolism in Dutch culture, representing vigilance, dawn, and protectionqualities that made it a popular house sign. Many families bearing this name can trace their origins to the Netherlands' western provinces, particularly North and South Holland, where the name remains most prevalent today.



As Dutch settlers migrated globally during the colonial period and subsequent waves of immigration, the DeHaan surname spread to North America, South Africa, and Australia, often maintaining its distinct Dutch identity while adapting to local linguistic patterns. The name carries with it the legacy of Dutch resilience, maritime tradition, and agricultural expertise. In modern times, it serves as a cultural marker connecting diaspora communities to their Dutch heritage, while also representing the successful integration of Dutch immigrants into diverse societies around the world.
Dick Van Dyke "almost" became James Bond.

Dick Van Dyke nearly became James Bond in the 70s

The 99-yer-old actor has revealed that he was very close to replacing Sir Sean Connery as 007 during the 1970s - but Dick ultimately missed out on the opportunity because of his notoriously bad British accent.

The veteran film star - who was born in West Plains, Missouri - said on the Today show: "I almost did [become James Bond].

"[Producer] Albert Broccoli came to me and said, Would you like to be Bond? And I said, Have you heard my British accent? Click!"

Dick is convinced that playing the British spy would "have been a great experience". However, he accepted that he wasn't a good fit for the role, having been criticised for his cockney accent in 1964's Mary Poppins.

Dick is set to celebrate his 100th birthday in December, and the actor is keen to continue working.

He said: "Its my hobby. Its my life. I love it ... I'm looking for work right now."

Despite this, Dick previously revealed that he "never planned" to become an actor.

He told New York Magazine: "My whole life was unplanned.

"Just the next opportunity that came along  one great thing after another. I never planned anything.

"One job led into another one, and I just kept working and enjoying it. Im a ham. I dont know, something happens and I come alive and I want to perform. I would have starved in any other business. Being on the stage  theres nothing like it in the world for anyone who can experience it. I pity the people who cant get on the stage. Good God, it was fun!"

Dick wasn't actually able to dance prior to auditioning for a show on Broadway.

He said: "Id always been limber and loose, but Id never danced before.

"When I auditioned for Gower Champion, I did Once in Love With Amy, the Ray Bolger song, and I did a little soft-shoe, which is all I knew. And he came up and said, 'You have the part.' I said, 'Sir, I dont dance.' He said, 'Ill show you.' And he did."
Individuals named Dericka are often perceived as natural leaders with a strong sense of purpose and determination. They typically exhibit a blend of traditional values and modern thinking, making them adaptable yet principled in their approach to life. Derickas are frequently described as gifted communicators who can inspire and guide others while maintaining a compassionate and nurturing demeanor. Their leadership style tends to be collaborative rather than authoritarian, reflecting the name's meaning of 'gifted ruler' in a contemporary context.



Many Derickas demonstrate exceptional organizational skills and emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate complex social situations with grace and effectiveness. They often possess a creative streak and innovative thinking that complements their natural authority. The combination of strength and sensitivity in their personality makes them particularly effective in roles requiring both decision-making capability and interpersonal connection. Derickas are typically seen as reliable and trustworthy individuals who take their responsibilities seriously while maintaining a warm and approachable presence that draws others to them naturally.
Individuals named Desmond are often perceived as intelligent, thoughtful, and possessing natural leadership qualities. They tend to be analytical thinkers who approach problems with careful consideration and strategic planning. The name suggests someone with strong moral convictions and a sense of justice, likely influenced by prominent bearers like Desmond Tutu. Desmonds are typically seen as reliable and trustworthy, with a quiet confidence that doesn't need constant validation.



They often exhibit cultural sophistication and may have artistic or intellectual interests. While they can be reserved in unfamiliar situations, those who know them well appreciate their dry wit and deep loyalty. Their combination of intelligence and integrity makes them natural problem-solvers who others frequently turn to for advice and guidance. The name carries an air of dignified authority that suggests someone who leads through wisdom rather than force, making them effective in roles requiring diplomacy and careful judgment.
Women named Digna are typically perceived as possessing strong moral character, self-respect, and a natural dignity that commands respect from others. They often exhibit a quiet confidence and inner strength that allows them to navigate challenges with grace and determination. These individuals tend to be principled and ethical, with a clear sense of right and wrong that guides their decisions and actions. Their inherent sense of worthiness often translates into high self-esteem and the ability to set healthy boundaries in personal and professional relationships.



Dignas are frequently described as reliable, responsible, and deeply committed to their values and beliefs. They approach life with seriousness and purpose, often taking on roles that require integrity and trustworthiness. While they may appear reserved initially, they form deep, meaningful connections with those who earn their trust. Their strength of character makes them natural leaders and advocates, particularly in situations requiring moral courage. The name's meaning often manifests in their tendency to seek out and recognize worthiness in others, creating relationships built on mutual respect and dignity.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Duc holds profound cultural significance in Vietnamese society, deeply rooted in Confucian values that have shaped Vietnamese culture for centuries. As a Sino-Vietnamese name derived from Chinese characters, it represents the Confucian ideal of moral virtue and ethical conduct. In traditional Vietnamese society, names were not merely identifiers but carried deep philosophical meanings and parental aspirations for their children's character development.



Historically, the name Duc was often given to boys with the hope they would grow into men of strong moral character, capable of contributing positively to their families and society. The name reflects the Vietnamese emphasis on education, respect for elders, and social responsibility. During various periods of Vietnamese history, particularly under Chinese influence and later during the independent dynasties, names containing 'Duc' were common among scholars, officials, and those expected to uphold Confucian virtues in their public and private lives.



The cultural resonance of Duc extends beyond individual naming to represent collective Vietnamese values of integrity, wisdom, and moral leadership. It continues to symbolize the ideal Vietnamese gentleman  someone who balances intellectual achievement with ethical conduct and contributes to the betterment of society through virtuous action.
People named Elazaro typically exhibit a combination of spiritual depth, intellectual curiosity, and strong moral character. They are often perceived as wise beyond their years, possessing an innate understanding of human nature and spiritual matters. Their calm demeanor and patient approach to problem-solving make them natural peacemakers and counselors. These individuals tend to be deeply principled, with a strong sense of justice and fairness that guides their decisions and actions. They often demonstrate remarkable resilience in facing challenges, drawing strength from their faith and inner convictions. While they may appear reserved in social situations, they form deep, meaningful relationships based on mutual respect and trust. Their leadership style is typically characterized by wisdom and compassion rather than authority or dominance, making them effective in guiding others through difficult circumstances.
Women named Elberte are typically characterized by a strong sense of dignity and moral integrity that guides their decisions and interactions. They often possess natural leadership qualities combined with a deep sense of responsibility toward others, reflecting the name's noble connotations. Their approach to life tends to be principled and thoughtful, with an innate understanding of tradition and proper conduct that makes them respected figures in their communities. Elbertes frequently demonstrate remarkable resilience in facing challenges, drawing strength from their convictions and maintaining composure even in difficult circumstances.



These individuals are known for their loyalty and commitment to those they care about, often serving as pillars of support within their families and social circles. While they may appear reserved initially, Elbertes typically reveal warm, compassionate natures to those who earn their trust, creating lasting bonds built on mutual respect and shared values. Their combination of strength and sensitivity allows them to navigate complex social situations with grace, and they often excel in roles that require both authority and empathy. The name suggests a person who embodies the Christian virtues of charity, patience, and fortitude, while maintaining the dignified bearing associated with historical nobility.
Individuals named Eman are typically perceived as serious, earnest, and deeply principled people who approach life with a sense of purpose and responsibility. They tend to be reliable and steadfast, often serving as the moral compass in their families and communities. Their serious nature doesn't necessarily mean they lack humor, but rather that they take their commitments and values seriously, making them trusted confidants and leaders.



Eman's personality often includes strong analytical abilities and a methodical approach to problem-solving. They are known for their persistence and determination, rarely giving up on goals once they've set their mind to them. This combination of seriousness and reliability makes them excellent in roles requiring trustworthiness and long-term commitment. However, they may sometimes be perceived as overly cautious or reserved, as their earnest nature can make them hesitant to take risks without thorough consideration.
Individuals named Emmanuele are often perceived as charismatic, compassionate, and spiritually inclined. They typically exhibit strong leadership qualities combined with a deep sense of empathy, making them natural mediators and community builders. The name carries an expectation of wisdom and guidance, with many Emmanueles developing into thoughtful, reflective individuals who value deep connections and meaningful relationships. Their inherent sense of responsibility often drives them toward professions where they can serve or inspire others.



While they can be ambitious and determined, this is usually tempered by a genuine concern for the well-being of those around them. The spiritual foundation of the name often manifests as a strong moral compass and an ability to provide comfort and stability during challenging times. Many Emmanueles develop a calm, reassuring presence that others find comforting. They tend to be excellent listeners and often become the 'rock' in their families or social circles. However, the weight of the name's meaning can sometimes create pressure to live up to high expectations, leading to a tendency toward perfectionism or excessive self-criticism when they feel they've fallen short of their own standards.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Encarnacion holds profound cultural significance in Spanish-speaking countries, particularly those with strong Catholic traditions. The name directly references the central Christian doctrine of the Incarnation - the belief that God became human in the form of Jesus Christ. This theological connection makes the name especially popular in deeply religious communities, where it serves as a constant reminder of divine embodiment and spiritual presence in everyday life. The name is often given to girls born around Christmas or religious holidays, symbolizing the manifestation of divine love in human form.



Historically, Encarnacion gained prominence during the Spanish colonial period, spreading throughout Latin America and the Philippines. It became associated with purity, devotion, and spiritual grace. Many churches and towns throughout the Spanish-speaking world bear the name 'Encarnacion', further cementing its cultural importance. The name also reflects the Spanish tradition of naming children after religious concepts and events, serving as a living testament to the enduring influence of Catholicism in Hispanic culture and identity formation across generations.
People named Engel are typically characterized by their compassionate nature and strong sense of moral responsibility, traits that align with the name's angelic connotations. They often exhibit natural empathy and emotional intelligence, making them excellent at understanding and supporting others in times of need. Their calm and thoughtful demeanor frequently positions them as mediators in conflicts, where they strive for harmonious resolutions. While generally gentle and accommodating, Engels possess an underlying strength and determination that emerges when defending their principles or protecting those they care about. They tend to be reliable, conscientious individuals who approach life with sincerity and purpose. Many develop strong intuitive abilities and often pursue vocations that allow them to serve others, whether in healthcare, education, counseling, or spiritual guidance. Their combination of sensitivity and resilience makes them both comforting presences and effective advocates for positive change.
Macao to deepen public administration reform: chief executive

Xinhua) 09:07, November 19, 2025

Sam Hou Fai, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), delivers his 2026 Policy Address at the Legislative Assembly in Macao, south China, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua)

MACAO, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- Sam Hou Fai, chief executive of the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), on Tuesday said the government will deepen public administration reform and enhance governance efficiency as part of his 2026 Policy Address.

Speaking at the Legislative Assembly, Sam said the SAR government aims to strengthen leadership and coordination in public administration. He pledged to tackle long-standing issues such as poor interdepartmental communication, lack of coordination, and isolated workflows, stressing efforts to break down departmental barriers and build a collaborative, accountable and efficient service-oriented government.

The chief executive noted that matters regulated by the SAR government, especially those related to business approvals and supervision, will be systematically reviewed. Processes will be simplified, management optimized, and responsibilities clarified.

Sam also emphasized the need to restructure departmental functions, strengthen the public service workforce, advance digital government and expand cross-border public services. The government will reinforce anti-corruption audits, build a clean, self-disciplined administration, and ensure that public funds are used legally and effectively, he said.

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Keanu Reeves has thanked the FBI for returning items stolen from his home in a burglary back in 2023.

Keanu Reeves had his property returned after thieves targeted his home

The 61-year-old actor's property in Los Angeles was targeted by thieves two years ago but US authorities have worked with officials in Chile to locate some of the star's stolen possessions - including a personalised Rolex watch featured in his John Wick films - and have them returned to him.

Keanu - who played an assassin who comes out of retirement after he's targeted by burglars in the John Wick series - thanked the FBI in a handwritten letter, which read: "It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that I am writing this letter.

"Thank you so much for all your effort, dedication, professionalism and cross-border cooperation. My warmest regards, Keanu."

Akil Davis, the assistant director in charge of the FBIs Los Angeles Field Office, said in a statement: "This case is a perfect example of the excellent international cooperation we enjoy with our Chilean counterparts and our local partners at Los Angeles Police Department.

"While burglary is a local crime in the United States, the FBI works collaboratively with the Los Angeles Police Department and others to share intelligence via our Major Theft Task Force and through other channels.

"These crimes affect celebrities and non-public figures alike, and the FBI is committed to assisting our local partners in combatting this scourge affecting the lives of innocent victims."

LAPD Chief of Police Jim McDonnell added: "This case underscores how crime today knows no borders, and how vital our international partnerships are in bringing justice to victims here in Los Angeles.

"The recovery of these stolen items - thanks to the outstanding collaboration between the Policia de Investigaciones de Chile, the FBI, and our detectives - sends a strong message that organized theft groups will be pursued wherever they operate.

"I am proud of the work our team has done alongside our federal and international partners to hold these criminal networks accountable."

Items stolen from the actor's home were recovered in July and have since been returned to him. The haul included six watches with a joint value of around $125,000.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Ephraim holds profound significance in Jewish and Christian traditions as one of the twelve tribes of Israel. According to the Book of Genesis, Ephraim was the second son of Joseph and Asenath, and despite being younger, he received the primary blessing from his grandfather Jacob, who declared Ephraim would become greater than his older brother Manasseh. This established the tribe of Ephraim as one of the most prominent in the northern kingdom of Israel, often used synonymously with the entire northern kingdom.



The name's meaning 'fruitful' reflects both the biblical promise of prosperity and the historical reality of the tribe's significant population and influence. Throughout Jewish history, Ephraim has symbolized the lost tribes and messianic restoration, while in Christian tradition, it represents spiritual fruitfulness and God's blessing. The tribe's territory in central Canaan was notably fertile, living up to the name's meaning, and Ephraim became a central figure in Israelite history, producing leaders like Joshua. In modern times, the name continues to carry these deep cultural and religious associations, particularly within Jewish naming traditions where it honors ancestral connections and spiritual heritage.
Individuals named Falyn are typically characterized by their creative spirit and independent nature. They often possess a unique blend of artistic sensitivity and practical intelligence, allowing them to navigate both creative pursuits and real-world challenges with equal facility. Their adaptability makes them comfortable in various social settings, though they typically value deep, meaningful connections over superficial relationships. Falyns are often perceived as natural innovators who aren't afraid to challenge conventions or explore unconventional paths.



In terms of emotional characteristics, Falyns tend to be emotionally intelligent and perceptive, with a strong sense of empathy that enables them to understand and connect with diverse perspectives. They typically demonstrate resilience in facing challenges, drawing on inner strength that might surprise those who initially perceive them as gentle or soft-spoken. This combination of creativity, independence, and emotional depth often leads them to careers or pursuits where they can make a meaningful impact while maintaining their autonomy. Their leadership style tends to be collaborative and inspirational rather than authoritarian, making them effective in roles that require bringing out the best in others.
Individuals named Farhan are typically characterized by their cheerful disposition and optimistic outlook on life. They possess a natural ability to find joy in everyday situations and often serve as emotional anchors for those around them. Their happiness is usually genuine and infectious, making them popular in social settings and valued as friends and colleagues. Farhans tend to be emotionally expressive and comfortable sharing their feelings, which helps them form deep, meaningful relationships. They often demonstrate high emotional intelligence, allowing them to navigate social situations with grace and understanding.



Beyond their sunny exterior, Farhans usually possess considerable inner strength and resilience. They approach challenges with a problem-solving mindset and rarely allow difficulties to dampen their spirit for long. Many Farhans exhibit creative tendencies and may excel in artistic or expressive fields where they can channel their emotional depth. While generally easy-going, they can be surprisingly determined when pursuing important goals or defending their principles. Their combination of emotional warmth and practical competence makes them effective leaders who can inspire others while getting things done. The name's association with happiness seems to manifest in their ability to maintain perspective and find silver linings even in challenging circumstances.
Individuals named Farlan are often perceived as grounded, practical, and deeply connected to their roots. The agricultural connotations of the name suggest someone who is patient, hardworking, and understands the value of gradual growth and cultivationwhether in relationships, careers, or personal development. They tend to be reliable and steadfast, much like the farmers their name honors, with a strong sense of responsibility and tradition.



These individuals often exhibit a quiet strength and resilience, able to weather challenges with the same determination that farmers show through changing seasons. Their connection to the land metaphorically translates to being down-to-earth, with a preference for authenticity over pretense. While they may be conservative in their approaches, they possess the wisdom to know that some thingslike crops and trustcannot be rushed but must be nurtured over time. This patient, methodical approach to life often makes them excellent long-term planners and trusted advisors in their personal and professional circles.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Fayne holds particular significance in Christian culture as it embodies the spiritual virtue of joy that is central to Christian teachings. Throughout Christian history, joy has been celebrated as one of the fruits of the Spirit, and names conveying happiness have been chosen to reflect this important spiritual quality. In English-speaking Christian communities, Fayne emerged as a name that not only sounded pleasant but carried deep religious meaning, suggesting a life lived in the joy of faith.



The name's usage in Christian families often represents a hope that the child will grow to embody Christian joy and spread happiness to others. It connects to biblical teachings about finding contentment in faith and maintaining a cheerful heart regardless of circumstances. This cultural significance has made Fayne a meaningful, though uncommon, choice for parents seeking to instill spiritual values through naming traditions.
Women named Godgifu are typically perceived as possessing deep spiritual conviction and moral courage. They often exhibit a strong sense of justice and willingness to stand up for their beliefs, even when facing significant opposition or personal risk. This stems from the legendary associations with Lady Godiva's courageous protest. They tend to be compassionate and charitable individuals, reflecting the name's meaning of being a 'gift from God' through their generosity and concern for others' welfare.



Their personality often combines traditional values with unexpected boldness, creating a unique blend of piety and strength that commands respect. They are frequently seen as pillars of their communities, offering wisdom and support while maintaining a quiet dignity that inspires trust in those around them. The historical weight of the name tends to influence bearers toward thoughtful, principled behavior, with a tendency to approach challenges with both spiritual depth and practical determination. This combination of characteristics makes them natural leaders in situations requiring both moral clarity and compassionate action.
Men named Gorrie typically exhibit personality traits that align with their name's meaning of 'peace from God,' often demonstrating remarkable emotional stability and a natural inclination toward conflict resolution. They tend to be thoughtful, introspective individuals who approach life with careful consideration rather than impulsive action. Gorries are often described as the 'rock' in their social circlesdependable, consistent, and able to maintain their composure even in challenging circumstances. Their peaceful nature doesn't indicate passivity; rather, it reflects a deep inner strength that allows them to navigate difficulties with grace and wisdom. These individuals often possess strong intuitive abilities and are frequently sought out for advice due to their balanced perspective and non-judgmental nature. In professional settings, Gorries excel in roles that require diplomacy, patience, and long-term strategic thinking. They value deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections and are known for their loyalty to family and close friends. While they may not be the most outgoing in social situations, their quiet confidence and genuine interest in others make them respected and appreciated by those who take the time to know them well. Their spiritual side often manifests as a practical spirituality focused on making positive differences in their immediate communities.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Hadiyyah holds profound significance in Islamic culture as it directly translates to 'gift' or 'present' in Arabic. The name embodies the Islamic concept of children being divine blessings from Allah, reflecting the spiritual joy and gratitude associated with parenthood. Throughout Islamic history, the name has been cherished for its beautiful meaning, often given to daughters born after long-awaited pregnancies or during significant family milestones. In many Muslim communities, the name Hadiyyah symbolizes not just any gift, but specifically a blessed offering that carries spiritual value and divine favor.



The name appears in various Islamic literary works and poetry, often used metaphorically to represent God's blessings upon humanity. During the Golden Age of Islam, the name gained popularity among educated families who valued its elegant meaning and connection to generosityone of the key virtues in Islamic teachings. The name continues to be particularly popular in regions with strong Arabic linguistic influence, including the Middle East, North Africa, and Muslim communities in South Asia, where it represents both cultural heritage and spiritual values.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Halliwell originated as a locational surname in Lancashire, England, derived from places named Holywell, referring to settlements near sacred springs or wells. During the Christianization of Britain, many natural springs were consecrated and became sites of pilgrimage, with 'holy wells' serving as important community gathering places. The name reflects the deep Christian tradition of venerating water sources as symbols of spiritual purification and divine grace, connecting earthly geography with sacred significance.



Throughout medieval England, families bearing this name were often associated with these holy sites, either as caretakers or residents nearby, embedding the name in both religious and community contexts. The preservation of such names across generations demonstrates the enduring importance of sacred geography in Christian cultural identity, while also reflecting the practical reality of how medieval communities identified themselves with their physical and spiritual landscapes.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Hausisse holds profound significance within Algonquin and broader Native American communities as it represents the revered status of elder women in indigenous societies. In traditional Algonquin culture, elder women were considered the keepers of wisdom, family lineage, and cultural traditions, serving as advisors, healers, and teachers to younger generations. The name embodies the concept of matriarchal leadership and the transmission of ancestral knowledge.



Historically, women bearing this name were often respected figures in their communities, responsible for passing down oral histories, medicinal practices, and spiritual teachings. The name reflects the indigenous worldview that values age not as decline but as accumulation of wisdom and experience. In contemporary Native American communities, the name continues to honor this tradition while also representing cultural resilience and the preservation of indigenous identity in modern society.
Lucy Liu still has a "belief in the magic of filmmaking".

Lucy Liu remains passionate about her work

The 56-year-old actress has enjoyed a hugely successful career in Hollywood, and although she admits that "theres so much broken in the system", Lucy hasn't lost any of her enthusiasm for acting.

She told The Hollywood Reporter: "Its better to come from a place of excitement. And honestly, gratitude  just because theres so much broken in the system, it doesnt have to change your belief in the magic of filmmaking. To me, it was a form of escape and a form of understanding.

"That momentum that I had as a 19- or 20-year-old when I started, not knowing everything else was a beautiful thing. Thats the combustion of a starting out, the accelerator is really the beauty of it. You dont want it to be tainted too soon."

Lucy starred alongside Cameron Diaz and Drew Barrymore in 2000's Charlie's Angels film. But while her co-stars decided to pursue other interests for periods of time, Lucy has always remained committed to the film business.

She explained: "Ill never lose that magic. I never retired. I never strayed from this business because I love it so much.

"People talk about how people go in a different direction, and I think that thats fine. I dont ever judge people for that.

"You were talking about Charlies: Cameron retired for a while, and her ability to light up a room is like nobody elses. Drew has gone down this new path to connect with people  shes always been a people person, and now she has a talk show thats incredibly successful. But Ive just stayed on this path. This is the path that I choose."

Meanwhile, Lucy previously revealed that Dame Helen Mirren gave her the best advice she's ever received.

The actress heaped praise on the Oscar-winning star, describing Helen as a "wonderful, magical person".

Asked to recall the best advice she's ever received, Lucy told Empire magazine: "'Stay exactly who you are, fired up and ready to go.' It was from Helen Mirren.

"She is a wonderful, magical person. We were just texting each other."
Women named Helga are typically perceived as strong-willed, dependable, and deeply principled individuals. They often exhibit a quiet confidence and inner strength that others find reassuring and inspiring. Helgas tend to be practical problem-solvers who approach challenges with methodical determination rather than impulsive reactions. Their steadfast nature makes them excellent leaders and trusted confidantes, though they may sometimes be perceived as reserved or overly serious by those who don't know them well.



Beneath their composed exterior often lies a warm, loyal heart and strong protective instincts toward loved ones. Helgas typically value tradition and stability, preferring established routines over constant change, yet they possess the resilience to adapt when necessary. Their combination of practical wisdom and emotional depth makes them particularly effective in caregiving roles, education, and community leadership positions where their innate sense of responsibility shines. While they may not seek the spotlight, their consistent reliability and moral compass often position them as pillars of their families and communities.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Hweolere holds significant cultural importance as one of the oldest occupational surnames in Christian European tradition. Originating from Old English 'hweol' (wheel) and '-ere' (maker), it represents the vital craft of wheel-making that enabled transportation, trade, and the spread of Christianity across medieval Europe. Wheelwrights were essential to pilgrimage routes, allowing believers to travel to holy sites, and their work supported the infrastructure of growing Christian communities.



In Christian symbolism, the wheel represents both the circle of life and divine perfection, making the name Hweolere carry spiritual connotations beyond its literal meaning. Medieval Christian artisans often saw their wheel-making as a reflection of God's perfect creation, with the wheel's circular form symbolizing eternity and the spokes representing the paths to salvation. This dual significance as both practical craft and spiritual metaphor made Hweolere a respected name among Christian artisan families throughout the Middle Ages.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Imre holds profound cultural significance in Hungary, tracing back to Saint Emeric of Hungary, the son of King Saint Stephen I, the first King of Hungary. Saint Emeric, who died young in 1031, became a symbol of purity, innocence, and the ideal Christian prince. His legacy established Imre as a name representing noble character and moral integrity in Hungarian culture. Throughout Hungarian history, the name has been borne by numerous intellectuals, artists, and political figures who have shaped the nation's identity.



The name carries the weight of Hungary's Christian heritage and national consciousness, often chosen by parents who wish to honor both religious traditions and Hungarian patriotism. It represents a connection to the country's medieval roots while maintaining relevance in modern Hungarian society. The name's association with Saint Emeric creates a spiritual dimension, while its use by prominent historical figures adds layers of intellectual and political significance. This dual heritage makes Imre a name that embodies both the spiritual ideals and the national aspirations of the Hungarian people.
Symbolically, Ingelbert represents the ideal synthesis of spiritual guidance and intellectual illumination. The name carries profound metaphorical weight as it combines the celestial symbolism of angels with the enlightenment symbolism of brightness. This creates a powerful image of someone who serves as a bridge between divine wisdom and human understanding. The angel component symbolizes protection, purity, and moral guidance, suggesting a person who acts as a guardian or mentor to others. The brightness element represents clarity, knowledge, and the dispelling of ignorance  someone who brings light to complex situations and helps others see truth more clearly. Together, these symbols create a portrait of enlightened leadership and compassionate intelligence. Metaphorically, the name suggests an individual who not only possesses knowledge but understands how to apply it ethically and beneficially. It represents the human capacity for both rational thought and spiritual insight, embodying the ideal of wisdom that serves both practical needs and higher purposes.
Individuals named Inis are typically characterized by a strong sense of independence and self-reliance, reflecting the isolated yet self-sufficient nature of islands. They often possess a calm, contemplative demeanor with deep inner resources, much like the tranquil waters surrounding a river island. This name suggests someone who is grounded yet adaptable, able to maintain their core identity while navigating different social currents and environments.



People with this name tend to be natural mediators and observers, possessing the ability to see situations from multiple perspectives. They often exhibit patience, resilience, and a quiet strength that others find reassuring. Their island-like nature makes them excellent listeners and thoughtful advisors, though they may occasionally struggle with feeling disconnected or needing significant personal space to recharge their emotional energies.



The river aspect of the name's meaning adds a dimension of flow and adaptability to the personality profile. Those named Inis often demonstrate remarkable emotional intelligence and the ability to go with life's currents while maintaining their essential character. They typically value authenticity and depth in relationships, preferring meaningful connections over superficial socializing, and often serve as stable anchors in their families and communities.
Individuals named Ives are often perceived as focused, determined, and precise in their pursuits, much like the archer suggested by the name's meaning. They tend to be strategic thinkers who carefully aim for their goals rather than acting impulsively. This archetypal archer personality manifests as someone who values accuracy, patience, and timing in both personal and professional endeavors. They are often seen as independent and self-reliant, capable of working diligently toward long-term objectives without constant external validation. The Christian heritage of the name adds layers of moral conviction and protective instincts. Ives are frequently described as having strong principles and a sense of justice, sometimes taking on the role of defender or advocate for others. Their combination of precision and ethical strength makes them natural leaders who inspire confidence through both competence and character. While they can be reserved in social settings, they form deep, loyal relationships with those who earn their trust, and they often exhibit a quiet intensity that others find both compelling and reassuring.
Individuals named Jazlynn are often perceived as creative, expressive, and socially vibrant. They tend to possess a natural charm and artistic sensibility that draws people to them, combined with a strong sense of individuality. Many Jazlynns demonstrate adaptability and spontaneity in their approach to life, often excelling in creative fields or roles requiring interpersonal skills. They typically balance their outgoing nature with a genuine warmth and empathy, making them effective communicators and loyal friends who value meaningful connections.



Beyond their social grace, Jazlynns often exhibit resilience and determination when pursuing their goals. The musical and rhythmic connotations of the name suggest a person who moves through challenges with fluidity and grace rather than rigid force. They tend to be quick learners who adapt well to changing circumstances, while their creative nature allows them to find innovative solutions to problems. The combination of traditional and modern elements in the name's origin often reflects in their personality as wellthey respect tradition while embracing progress and new ideas.
In the 21st century, Jirina has transitioned from a popular contemporary name to a more traditional choice with nostalgic appeal. Current naming data from the Czech Ministry of Interior shows the name ranking around 150th in popularity, with most new Jirinas being named to honor grandmothers or great-grandmothers. The name maintains stronger presence in rural areas and among families with strong connections to Czech traditions. Internationally, Jirina appears most frequently in Czech and Slovak diaspora communities, where it serves as cultural preservation. Digital globalization has influenced the name's usage, with the simplified spelling 'Jirina' (without diacritics) becoming more common in international contexts. While not trending upward, the name maintains a stable, niche appeal among parents seeking names with historical depth, natural symbolism, and cultural specificity. Its decline in general popularity has ironically increased its distinctiveness, making it an attractive option for parents wanting a traditional name that stands out from current naming trends.
Symbolically, Joie represents the human capacity for transcendent happiness and emotional abundance. Beyond literal joy, the name embodies concepts of inner light, emotional resilience, and the transformative power of positive emotion. In symbolic systems, it often correlates with solar imageryrepresenting warmth, growth, and life-giving energy. The name carries metaphorical weight as an emblem of hope and renewal, suggesting the ability to find beauty and meaning even in challenging circumstances. In psychological terms, Joie symbolizes emotional intelligence and the conscious cultivation of happiness as a life practice. The name also carries spiritual symbolism across various traditions, representing the soul's innate capacity for bliss and connection to higher states of consciousness. As a symbolic entity, Joie serves as a reminder that joy is not merely an emotion but a fundamental orientation toward life that can be cultivated and shared.
Women named Joleen are often perceived as compassionate, creative individuals with strong intuitive abilities. They typically exhibit a blend of traditional values and modern thinking, making them adaptable in various social situations. Joleens are frequently described as having warm, engaging personalities that draw people toward them naturally. Their combination of practicality and imagination allows them to approach challenges with both logical reasoning and innovative solutions.



Many Joleens demonstrate natural leadership qualities tempered with empathy, enabling them to inspire others while maintaining genuine connections. They often possess artistic talents or creative outlets, whether in visual arts, music, writing, or other expressive forms. Their name's melodic quality seems to reflect in their communication styleoften described as gentle yet persuasive. Joleens typically value deep, meaningful relationships over superficial connections and are known for their loyalty to family and friends. They tend to be resilient in facing adversity, drawing strength from their spiritual or philosophical beliefs while maintaining a positive outlook on life.
Selma Blair is getting her "stamina back" amid her battle with multiple sclerosis.

Selma Blair has opened up about her recovery

The 53-year-old actress was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis back in 2018, but Selma has been finding joy in her family - including her 14-year-old son, Arthur - amid her ongoing health journey.

Selma - who has shared her experience of the autoimmune disease since her diagnosis - told People: "I'm relapse-free for a couple of years now and, you know, I'm getting my stamina back all the time and travelling around and doing collaborations, and I think my joy is always gonna be from my son.

"I wish he felt the same way!"

Earlier this year, Selma revealed that she was "truly in remission" from multiple sclerosis.

The actress was diagnosed with the condition seven years ago , but Selma is now "feeling really well".

Speaking to People, the Hollywood star shared: "I am doing amazingly well. I've been feeling great for about a year. But I am finally well enough to really, genuinely ... I always try and feel my best, but now that I actually have stamina and energy and getting out and going out isn't so scary."

Selma's improving health has also allowed the actress to start making plans for her future.

She said: "It's funny, I haven't spent enough time having dreams. And now it's like, 'What are my dreams?'

"I think maybe since the diagnosis. You're just tired all the time. I spent so much of my life so tired from being unwell that I think I just was trying to get through the day. And now it's like, wait, I realise I don't know what my goals are."

Selma would "love" to return to her acting roots. But her ambitions actually extend beyond her acting career.

The movie star - who was married to musician Ahmet Zappa between 2004 and 2006 - added: "I still am advocating for people with chronic illness and getting better, and what that looks like when you haven't made your wishes."
Jonah has maintained consistent popularity as a boys' name in the 21st century, particularly in English-speaking countries. In the United States, it has ranked within the top 150-200 names for boys for over two decades, appealing to parents who want a biblical name that feels contemporary rather than overly traditional. The name's appeal crosses religious boundaries, being chosen by Jewish, Christian, and non-religious families alike. Its popularity reflects a broader trend toward Old Testament names that have strong stories and positive meanings. The gentle sound and easy pronunciation contribute to its enduring appeal, while celebrity associations (like actor Jonah Hill) have helped maintain its modern relevance. Current usage often focuses on the positive aspects of the biblical story - redemption, second chances, and personal growth - making it an optimistic choice for new generations.
Women named Jozsa are typically characterized by a blend of traditional values and practical intelligence. They often demonstrate strong nurturing instincts combined with remarkable resilience, able to weather life's challenges while maintaining their core values. Jozsa's tend to be deeply connected to their family and cultural roots, finding strength in tradition while adapting to contemporary circumstances. Their personality often reflects the name's meaning of 'addition' through their ability to enrich the lives of those around them with wisdom, support, and practical assistance.



In social settings, Jozsa's are known for their loyalty and reliability, often serving as the emotional anchor in their relationships. They typically possess a quiet confidence that comes from understanding their heritage and place in the world. While they may appear reserved initially, they reveal warmth and depth upon closer acquaintance. Their problem-solving approach tends to be methodical and grounded, combining intuition with practical reasoning. The combination of their Hungarian cultural background and the name's spiritual meaning often results in individuals who balance earthy pragmatism with deeper philosophical or spiritual understanding, making them valued advisors and steadfast companions.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Kakawangwa holds profound cultural significance within Hopi tradition as a name that embodies the philosophical understanding of life's dualities. In Hopi cosmology, names are considered sacred and are believed to influence both the individual's character and their path in life. The meaning 'bitter' in this context reflects the indigenous wisdom that acknowledges the necessary presence of difficulty in human experience. Rather than being viewed negatively, bitterness is understood as an essential component of the full spectrum of human emotion and experience, much like the bitter plants used in traditional medicine that ultimately bring healing. The name connects the bearer to ancestral values of endurance, reminding them that strength is forged through overcoming challenges and that wisdom often emerges from the most difficult experiences. This naming tradition represents the Hopi people's deep connection to their environment and their understanding of life as a continuous cycle of challenge and growth, where bitter moments ultimately contribute to the sweetness of survival and cultural continuity.
Individuals named Karlitis are typically characterized by their strong willpower, natural leadership abilities, and unwavering determination. They possess a commanding presence that often inspires confidence in others, combined with a practical, solution-oriented approach to challenges. These men tend to be protective of their loved ones and principles, displaying loyalty and reliability that makes them dependable partners and friends. Their strength is not merely physical but extends to emotional resilience and intellectual fortitude, allowing them to navigate complex situations with grace under pressure.



Karlitis bearers often exhibit a blend of traditional masculine virtues with modern emotional intelligence, creating a balanced personality that commands respect while maintaining approachability. They are frequently drawn to positions of responsibility and excel in careers requiring strategic thinking and decisive action. While they may appear reserved initially, those who know them well appreciate their deep sense of justice, their commitment to their values, and their surprising capacity for warmth and mentorship. The name suggests someone who builds rather than destroys, who leads through example rather than command, and whose strength serves to protect and uplift those around them.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Kathyayini holds profound significance in Hindu tradition as one of the primary forms of Goddess Parvati and one of the nine forms of Durga (Navadurga). The name originates from the sage Katyayana, who performed intense penance to receive the goddess as his daughter. In Hindu scriptures, she is celebrated as the warrior goddess who destroyed the demon Mahishasura, symbolizing the triumph of good over evil.



During Navratri festivals, the sixth day is dedicated to worshipping Kathyayini, who represents courage, strength, and divine power. The name embodies the concept of Shakti - the primordial cosmic energy that creates, preserves, and transforms the universe. Across various Hindu communities, the name is revered not just as a personal identifier but as an invocation of divine feminine energy that protects and empowers devotees.
Individuals named Kaytlyn are often perceived as intelligent, curious, and quick learners from a young age. They typically demonstrate strong analytical abilities and a natural inclination toward academic pursuits, combined with creative problem-solving skills. This intellectual curiosity is frequently complemented by a warm, engaging personality that makes them well-liked among peers and respected by elders. Their beauty is often described as both physical and internal, radiating confidence and kindness that draws others to them.



Kaytlyns tend to be adaptable and resilient, able to navigate various social situations with grace and poise. They often exhibit leadership qualities even in childhood, showing maturity beyond their years while maintaining the innocence and wonder characteristic of youth. Their combination of intelligence and emotional intelligence makes them effective communicators and natural mediators. Many Kaytlyns develop strong moral compasses early in life, guided by the Christian values often associated with their name's heritage, creating individuals who are both accomplished and compassionate.
In contemporary naming practices, Keanan maintains a distinctive presence as an authentically Irish name that appeals to parents seeking traditional roots with unique character. While not ranking among the most popular names, it enjoys consistent usage particularly within Irish diaspora communities and among families with Celtic heritage. The name has found moderate popularity in English-speaking countries, often chosen by parents who want an Irish name that stands apart from more common choices like Sean, Liam, or Connor. Recent naming trends show growing interest in Gaelic names with historical significance, which has helped sustain Keanan's relevance. It's particularly favored by parents who appreciate its ancient origins and meaningful heritage while wanting a name that functions well in modern professional and social contexts. The spelling 'Keanan' offers a distinctive alternative to the more common 'Keenan,' providing both traditional authenticity and individual character.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Kiwidinok holds deep significance in Anishinaabe (Chippewa/Ojibwe) culture as a name representing the powerful forces of nature, specifically the north wind. In traditional belief systems, the wind is not merely a weather phenomenon but a spiritual entity that carries messages, cleanses the land, and connects all living beings. The name embodies the concept of Gitchie Manidoo (the Great Spirit) moving through creation, with the north wind particularly associated with purification, wisdom, and the bringing of seasonal changes that sustain the natural balance.



Historically, names like Kiwidinok were given to honor the elements and acknowledge a child's connection to the natural world, often reflecting the circumstances of birth or qualities the parents hoped the child would embody. The name serves as a living link to Anishinaabe cosmology, where wind directions hold specific spiritual meanings and the north wind is revered for its cleansing properties and association with elders' wisdom. In contemporary Indigenous communities, the continued use of such names represents cultural resilience and the preservation of linguistic heritage against historical pressures of assimilation.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Lambrecht holds significant cultural importance in German history, particularly within medieval aristocratic and ecclesiastical contexts. The name emerged during the early Middle Ages when compound names combining elements like 'land' (territory) and 'berht' (bright, famous) were common among nobility and clergy. This naming pattern reflected the cultural values of land ownership, territorial authority, and intellectual or spiritual illumination. Numerous bishops, saints, and regional rulers bore this name, cementing its association with leadership, religious devotion, and governance throughout German-speaking regions.



The name's persistence through centuries demonstrates its deep cultural roots, particularly in southern Germany and Austria where it appears in historical records, church documents, and noble lineages. While its usage has declined in modern times, Lambrecht remains an important name in historical and genealogical studies, representing a bridge between ancient Germanic naming traditions and medieval Christian influences. Its cultural significance lies in its embodiment of the ideal medieval leader: someone who combined earthly authority with spiritual enlightenment.
The symbolic resonance of Lexine extends far beyond its literal translation of 'defender of man.' This name embodies the archetype of the guardian in its most complete form  representing not just physical protection but emotional, intellectual, and spiritual safeguarding as well. Symbolically, Lexine connects to ancient concepts of the threshold guardian, the one who stands at boundaries to determine what may enter and what must be kept out for the community's safety. In psychological terms, the name symbolizes healthy boundaries, discernment, and the courage to protect what matters most.



Metaphorically, Lexine represents the idea of 'strength through compassion'  the understanding that true protection comes from wisdom and care rather than mere force. The name carries echoes of mythological figures like Athena (goddess of wisdom and strategic defense) and Demeter (protector of the sacred and nurturer of growth). In modern symbolic interpretation, Lexine suggests someone who builds bridges rather than walls  creating connections that strengthen communities while maintaining necessary protections. The name's symbolic power lies in its balance of ancient protective energy with contemporary understanding of defense as including emotional safety, intellectual freedom, and spiritual sanctuary. This multi-layered symbolic meaning makes Lexine a name rich with potential for personal identity and life purpose.
Zach Bryan hasn't "touched alcohol in two months" after experiencing "earth-shattering panic attacks".

Zach Bryan has been sober for two months

The 29-year-old country music star has revealed he reached out for help and underwent therapy after a 20-day camping trip made him realise he had a "toxic relationship with booze" and he needed to address his mental health issues sober.

In a post on Instagram, he wrote: "Recently I went on a motorcycle trip across the country. For 20 days I camped and rode looking for a solution.

"At the end of this ride, I was sitting in a parking lot in Seattle, Washington thinking: 'I really need some f****** help'."

Bryan went on to reveal he's struggled with life in the spotlight and trolling on the Internet as well as a number of personal issues and he made the "conscious decision" to give up alcohol.

He wrote: "Being in the military for a decade and then thrown into a spotlight that I hadn't fully comprehended the scope of, had some subconscious effects on me as a person.

"I was not content, but I also feared showing weakness because that's not who I am or how I was raised. To charge forward and never settle was the motto.

"I was stuck in a perpetual discontent that led me to always reaching for alcohol, not for the taste but because there was a consistent black hole in me always needing its void filled."

Bryan went on to add: "I have been lied about and doxxed on the internet, I was helping a close friend through a severe mental break, one of my other best friends was put into a coma by a motorcycle accident, and I was touring the country playing five, sometimes six, nights a week.

"I was having earth-shattering panic attacks. The anxiety was paralysing, and I thought since I was successful, had the money I always longed for, and had great friends, that I could tough anything out."

Bryan went on to reveal he sought help and it led to him giving up alcohol two months ago.

He explained: "I went out of my way to find a therapist and made the conscious decision to do something about my toxic relationship with booze and how I cope with major life changes.

"I haven't touched alcohol for nearly two months now - something I had to do for my own personal clarity. I needed to see the world objectively."

Bryan added that he's had the support of his family and his girlfriend, Samantha Leonard and is feeling much happier as he looks to the future.

He concluded: "Conversations about the future, kids one day, my health and Sammy's happiness made me prioritize not only myself, but my entire family ...

"I feel great, I feel content, I feel whole ... I just want to say it is okay to be weak at times and need help."
Women named Lotye are often perceived as possessing a unique combination of delicate presence and inner strength. They typically exhibit refined manners and graceful movements that belie a determined spirit and sharp intellect. This duality makes Lotyes particularly adept at navigating social situations with both charm and assertiveness. Their 'tiny but mighty' nature often manifests in careful attention to detail, artistic sensibility, and the ability to make significant impacts through subtle influence rather than overt force.



Lotyes tend to be observant, intuitive, and possess a quiet confidence that draws others to them. They often excel in creative fields, education, or roles requiring both precision and emotional intelligence, balancing their feminine grace with professional competence in ways that frequently surprise those who underestimate them due to their delicate appearance. Many Lotyes develop a distinctive personal style that combines elegance with practicality, and they often become known for their ability to resolve conflicts through diplomacy and careful communication rather than confrontation. Their name seems to shape an identity that embraces both traditional femininity and modern capability.
Individuals named Lukman are typically perceived as wise, patient, and deeply thoughtful. They often exhibit a calm demeanor and natural authority that inspires trust and respect from others. Their decision-making process tends to be methodical and well-considered, reflecting the legendary wisdom of their namesake. Lukmans are often seen as natural counselors and mediators, possessing the ability to see multiple perspectives and offer balanced advice.



These individuals typically value knowledge and experience, showing respect for tradition while being open to new ideas. Their strength lies in their emotional intelligence and ability to guide others through difficult situations with compassion and practical wisdom. Many Lukmans develop a reputation for reliability and integrity, often becoming pillars in their communities or families. They tend to be excellent listeners who process information carefully before speaking, and their advice is often sought in both personal and professional matters due to their reputation for sound judgment.
The name Lyric carries profound symbolic meaning as a representation of life's inherent musicality and poetic nature. It symbolizes the idea that each person's life follows a unique rhythm and melody, with experiences composing the verses of their personal song. Metaphorically, Lyric suggests that beauty and meaning can be found in the ordinary, and that emotional expression transforms experience into art. The name embodies the concept of harmony - both musical harmony and the harmony we seek between our inner and outer worlds. It represents the flow of creativity and emotion, suggesting that authentic self-expression is both an art form and a fundamental human need. Like a well-crafted lyric that captures universal truths in specific moments, the name implies that individual lives contain elements that resonate with broader human experience. This symbolic richness makes Lyric more than just a name - it becomes a philosophical stance celebrating the artistic potential in every life.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Matteo holds profound cultural significance as the Italian form of Matthew, deriving from the Hebrew name Mattityahu meaning 'gift of Yahweh.' In Italian culture, the name carries centuries of religious tradition, being associated with Saint Matthew the Evangelist, one of the twelve apostles and author of the first Gospel. This connection has made Matteo a staple in Catholic families throughout Italy's history. The name appears frequently in Italian Renaissance art and literature, often depicting learned figures and scholars, reinforcing its association with wisdom and education.



Throughout Italy's various regions, Matteo has maintained consistent popularity, though with particular strength in central and northern Italy. The name represents a bridge between Italy's deep Catholic roots and its humanist traditions, embodying both spiritual devotion and intellectual pursuit. In contemporary Italian society, Matteo continues to be favored for its classic yet approachable quality, serving as a name that honors tradition while remaining perfectly suited for modern life. Its enduring appeal reflects the Italian values of family, faith, and cultural continuity.
Individuals named Mori are often perceived as having personalities shaped by the name's unique meaning of being born during a transitional period of family obligation. They may be seen as patient and understanding individuals who recognize that some things in life require time and commitment to resolve. The name's association with waiting for obligations to be fulfilled suggests a personality that is comfortable with process and understands that meaningful relationships and achievements often develop over time rather than instantly. These individuals might exhibit strong family values and a sense of responsibility toward maintaining social bonds and honoring commitments.



The cultural context of the name implies someone who appreciates tradition while navigating modern life, potentially making them diplomatic in family matters and respectful of cultural heritage. They may demonstrate resilience and the ability to thrive even when circumstances are not fully settled, showing adaptability while maintaining core values. The name's meaning might also suggest someone who serves as a bridge between different parties or perspectives, much like how the child bridges the period between dowry agreement and fulfillment. This could manifest as strong mediation skills, emotional intelligence, and the capacity to understand multiple viewpoints while working toward harmonious resolutions in personal and professional relationships.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Nessia holds deep cultural significance in Scottish heritage, deriving from the Gaelic word for headland or promontory. The name evokes the rugged coastal landscapes that define much of Scotland's geography, particularly the dramatic cliffs and peninsulas that have shaped Scottish maritime culture for centuries. In Scottish folklore, headlands were often seen as mystical places where land meets sea - boundaries between the known world and the unknown depths. Many coastal communities developed distinct traditions around these geographical features, viewing them as protective barriers and spiritual landmarks.



The name gained particular prominence in regions like the Highlands and Islands, where geographical features dominated daily life and navigation. During the 18th and 19th centuries, as Scottish emigration increased, the name traveled with diaspora communities to North America and Australia, often serving as a nostalgic connection to the dramatic coastal landscapes left behind. In modern times, Nessia has become symbolic of Scottish environmental consciousness, representing the preservation of natural coastal features against modern development pressures. The name continues to embody the Scottish spirit of resilience and connection to the natural world, particularly the dramatic meeting point of land and sea that characterizes so much of Scotland's coastline.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Nuttah holds profound significance within Algonquin and broader Native American communities as a traditional term of endearment meaning 'my heart.' In Algonquin culture, the heart represents not just romantic love but the center of one's being, encompassing compassion, courage, and spiritual connection. Historically, such names were given to express deep familial bonds and were often reserved for children who brought particular joy or represented hope for the community's future. The name reflects indigenous values of emotional authenticity and interconnectedness, where personal identity is deeply tied to community relationships and spiritual understanding.



In contemporary contexts, the name has become a symbol of cultural resilience and pride, as many indigenous families choose traditional names to honor their heritage and maintain linguistic continuity despite historical pressures toward assimilation. The revival of names like Nuttah represents a powerful reclamation of cultural identity and a rejection of colonial naming practices that sought to erase indigenous languages and traditions. This naming practice serves as both personal affirmation and political statement, connecting new generations to ancestral wisdom while asserting the ongoing vitality of Native American cultures in the modern world.
Women named Ominotago typically exhibit exceptional communication abilities that extend far beyond mere verbal skill. They possess a natural empathy that allows them to understand unspoken emotions and communicate with profound sensitivity. Their 'beautiful voice' manifests as an ability to articulate complex feelings and ideas in ways that resonate deeply with others, making them natural counselors, teachers, and community builders. They often demonstrate remarkable emotional intelligence, reading social situations with acuity and responding with just the right words to comfort, inspire, or mediate conflict. This emotional attunement combined with their verbal gifts makes them particularly effective in roles that require diplomacy, healing, or cultural preservation.



These individuals tend to be creative and expressive, often drawn to artistic pursuits that allow them to communicate through multiple mediums. They may excel in music, writing, or visual arts, using their talents to convey messages of cultural significance or personal truth. Their strength lies in their ability to bridge differences through understanding and to create spaces where diverse voices can be heard and valued. While they can be introspective and thoughtful, they also possess the courage to speak difficult truths when necessary, using their voice as an instrument of positive change. Their presence often brings harmony to groups, as they naturally facilitate understanding and connection among people with different perspectives.
Individuals named Onawa are typically characterized by exceptional awareness and perceptiveness. They possess a natural ability to notice details others might miss and often demonstrate keen intuition in social and professional situations. This heightened awareness makes them excellent observers and thoughtful decision-makers who approach life with mindfulness and consideration. Their 'wide awake' nature translates to emotional intelligence and the capacity to understand complex interpersonal dynamics.



Onawas are often described as spiritually attuned and deeply connected to their environment. They tend to be reflective individuals who value authenticity and meaningful connections. While they can be reserved in unfamiliar settings, they exhibit warmth and loyalty in close relationships. Their combination of alertness and empathy makes them natural caregivers, counselors, or leaders who can sense others' needs and respond with compassion and wisdom. They typically balance traditional values with modern perspectives, creating a unique blend of stability and adaptability.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Phillips carries significant cultural weight as a patronymic surname that evolved into a given name. Originating from the Greek name Philip, meaning 'lover of horses,' it gained prominence through Christian tradition, particularly through Saint Philip the Apostle, one of the twelve apostles of Jesus. This biblical connection established Phillips as a name with strong Christian roots, often chosen by families seeking to honor both familial lineage and religious heritage. Throughout European history, the name spread widely as a surname before transitioning to common given name usage in English-speaking countries.



In Western culture, Phillips became particularly prominent during the Victorian era when surnames began being used as first names. The name carries connotations of nobility and leadership, partly due to historical figures like various King Philips throughout European history. In American context, the name gained additional significance through prominent abolitionists and civil rights advocates, lending it an association with social justice and reform. The transition from surname to given name reflects broader cultural trends in naming conventions while maintaining its connection to paternal lineage and Christian tradition.
Kneecap have joined forces with drum and bass legend Sub Focus on new song No Comment.

Kneecap take aim at the British State on new drum and bass tune with Sub Focus

The Irish hip-hop trio have released a song about "getting harassed by the British State" after band member Mo Chara faced a terrorism charge this year.

Kneecap said of the track: "No Comment is all about getting harassed by the British State. Simple as. Us Irish are well used to it, been happening for centuries. Was a pleasure to work with Sub Focus on this, the man is a legend."

A limited-edition vinyl with Get Your Brits Out on the other side will be released with Banksy's Royal Courts of Justice on the cover.

No Comment follows THE RECAP featuring another drum and bass producer in Mozey and Sayonara, a collaboration with Paul Hartnoll of Orbital.

In September, Chara's terror charge was dismissed by the court.

The 27-year-old Irish star - whose real name is Liam Og O hAnnaidh - appeared at Woolwich Crown Court after he was charged with a terror offence in May for "displaying a flag in support of proscribed organisation Hezbollah" at their O2 Forum Kentish Town gig in London in November 2024.

However, as the Metropolitan Police failed to meet the six-month statutory time limit for issuing the requisition, the case was thrown out.

Chief magistrate Paul Goldspring said: I find that these proceedings were not instituted in the correct form.

The time limit requires consent to have been granted at the time or before the issue of the requisition. Consequently the charge is unlawful and null and this court has no jurisdiction to try the charge.

He had been on unconditional bail since the first hearing in June.

Liam hugged his parents as he left the court before addressing fans and supporters who had gathered outside the courthouse. Some waved Palestinian and Irish flags, while others held up placards emblazoned with the words "Free Mo Chara".

Addressing the crowd, O hAnnaidh said: "This entire process was never about me. It was never about any threat to the public, it was never about terrorism  a word used by your government to discredit people you oppress. It was always about Gaza, about what happens if you dare to speak up. Your attempts to silence us have failed because we're right and you're wrong.
Women named Rafa are typically perceived as cheerful, optimistic individuals who bring light and happiness to those around them. They often possess a natural ability to uplift others with their positive energy and genuine smile. Their name meaning tends to manifest in their personality as they approach life with enthusiasm and find joy in simple pleasures, making them pleasant companions and reliable friends who can brighten difficult situations.



Beyond their cheerful exterior, Rafas often demonstrate resilience and inner strength that allows them to overcome challenges while maintaining their positive outlook. They tend to be emotionally intelligent, understanding the feelings of others and offering comfort when needed. Their happiness is not superficial but rooted in a deep sense of contentment and spiritual connection, making them stable and grounding influences in their families and communities. They typically balance their joyful nature with practical wisdom, creating a well-rounded personality that inspires others.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Ravyn, while modern in its specific spelling, draws from the ancient symbolism of ravens in Christian and European traditions. In Christian symbolism, ravens appear in several biblical stories, most notably when ravens fed the prophet Elijah during his exile, representing God's provision and care. The raven was also the first bird Noah sent from the ark, symbolizing both intelligence and the search for dry land. Throughout medieval Christian Europe, ravens were often associated with wisdom and divine messages, though they also carried connotations of mystery and the unknown. The modern spelling 'Ravyn' with a 'y' emerged in the late 20th century as part of the trend toward unique name spellings while maintaining the powerful symbolic heritage of the traditional name.



In contemporary Christian naming practices, Ravyn represents a blending of traditional biblical symbolism with modern creative expression. While not directly biblical itself, the name connects to important Christian narratives through its avian symbolism. The raven's role in feeding Elijah (1 Kings 17:4-6) demonstrates God's unexpected means of provision, while its appearance in the Noah's ark story (Genesis 8:7) shows its significance as a messenger and scout. This dual heritage of provision and intelligence makes Ravyn a meaningful choice for Christian families seeking a name that honors biblical tradition while embracing contemporary naming trends.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Rawson emerged as a patronymic surname in medieval England, specifically in Yorkshire and surrounding northern counties. The name reflects the Norman tradition of creating surnames from father's names, with 'Raw' deriving from the personal name Rawley or Raleigh, meaning 'roe deer meadow.' During the 12th-14th centuries, as surnames became hereditary, Rawson families established themselves as landowners and merchants, particularly in the wool trade that flourished in northern England. The name carries the cultural legacy of English paternal lineage traditions and represents the transition from personal names to hereditary family names that occurred throughout medieval Europe.



The Rawson family name gained prominence during the Elizabethan era, with several notable figures serving in government and military positions. In the 17th century, Rawsons were among early settlers in the American colonies, particularly in New England, where they contributed to community development and local governance. The name's association with English heritage and colonial history gives it cultural significance in both the United Kingdom and former British colonies. Throughout the 19th century, Rawsons were active in industrial development, education, and public service, further cementing the name's place in English-speaking cultural history.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Renenet held a crucial position in ancient Egyptian cosmology as the personification of fortune, nourishment, and divine protection. Her worship spanned over three millennia, from the Early Dynastic Period (c. 3100 BCE) through the Ptolemaic era, demonstrating her enduring importance in Egyptian society. As a harvest goddess, she was invoked during planting and harvesting seasons, with farmers making offerings to ensure fertile crops and protection from famine. The association with cobras connected her to Wadjet, the protective serpent goddess of Lower Egypt, creating a powerful symbolism of both nurturing and defending the kingdom.



In royal contexts, Renenet was depicted as the divine nurse of the pharaoh, often shown breastfeeding the ruler to symbolize the transfer of divine right and protection. This maternal aspect extended to all Egyptian children, as she was believed to determine each person's destiny and fortune at birth. The extensive temple complex at Medinet Madi in the Faiyum oasis served as her primary cult center, where priests maintained rituals ensuring the Nile's annual flood would bring fertile silt to farmlands. Her integration into funerary texts, including the Pyramid Texts and Coffin Texts, shows her role in the afterlife as well, where she provided spiritual nourishment to the deceased.
Women named Saxonia are often perceived as strong-willed, principled individuals with deep-rooted values and a sense of historical connection. They typically exhibit leadership qualities combined with traditional virtues, showing resilience in facing challenges while maintaining their moral compass. Many Saxonia's demonstrate intellectual curiosity about their heritage and cultural traditions, often becoming keepers of family histories and community knowledge. Their personality often blends the steadfastness associated with Saxon heritage with compassionate understanding, making them natural community builders and respected figures in their social circles.



These individuals tend to be methodical and thorough in their approach to life, reflecting the practical nature often attributed to Saxon culture. They value stability and continuity, yet are not resistant to necessary change when it aligns with their core principles. Saxonia's are often seen as pillars of their communitiesreliable, trustworthy, and committed to preserving what they consider valuable from the past while thoughtfully engaging with the present. Their strength of character is typically balanced by genuine warmth and concern for others, creating a personality that commands respect while fostering genuine connections.
People named Selassie often develop personality traits that reflect the name's profound cultural and spiritual weight. They tend to be natural leaders with a strong sense of purpose and responsibility, often feeling connected to something larger than themselves. The trinity symbolism frequently manifests as well-rounded individuals who can balance different aspects of their livesprofessional, personal, and spiritualwith unusual grace. Many Selassies exhibit deep thinking patterns, showing interest in philosophical questions and historical contexts that shape human experience.



Their connection to the name's royal associations often instills a sense of dignity and self-respect that others naturally respond to. They typically value tradition and cultural heritage while being forward-thinking, creating a personality that honors the past without being constrained by it. The spiritual dimension of the name often leads to individuals who are reflective, principled, and committed to their beliefs. At the same time, the name's modern associations with liberation movements can inspire a strong sense of justice and advocacy in those who bear it, making them likely to stand up for their communities and principles.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Sharufa holds deep cultural significance in both Swahili and Somali communities, where names are carefully chosen to reflect desired qualities and aspirations. In Swahili culture along the East African coast, the name embodies the sophisticated urban traditions of coastal cities like Mombasa and Zanzibar, where distinction and social standing are highly valued. The name carries connotations of nobility and excellence, often given to girls expected to become community leaders or exceptional individuals.



In Somali culture, Sharufa reflects the importance of honor and social prestige within clan structures, where being 'distinguished' carries both personal and familial significance. The name represents the ideal of a woman who brings honor to her family through her character and achievements. Across both cultures, the name serves as a constant reminder of the high expectations placed upon the bearer and the cultural value placed on personal excellence and social contribution.
In contemporary naming practices, Sheelah occupies a unique position as a culturally significant but relatively uncommon choice. While it never reached the popularity of other Irish names like Siobhan or Erin, it maintains a steady presence particularly among families with strong Irish heritage seeking to honor their roots. The name has experienced a slight revival in recent years as part of the trend toward distinctive, meaningful names that stand out from more common choices. Modern parents who choose Sheelah often appreciate its authentic Irish sound and connection to tradition while valuing its relative uniqueness. In professional and social contexts, women named Sheelah frequently find that their name sparks conversations about Irish heritage and cultural identity. The name is most commonly found in Ireland, the United Kingdom, North America, and Australia, often in communities with significant Irish diaspora populations. While some modern Sheelahs may use nicknames or more common variations in certain settings, many embrace the distinctive quality of their name as part of their personal identity.
Individuals named Sorcha are typically perceived as intelligent, perceptive, and possessing strong intuitive abilities. They often demonstrate quick wit, sharp analytical skills, and a natural curiosity that drives them to seek knowledge and understanding. Their 'bright' nature extends beyond mere intelligence to include emotional intelligence and social awareness, making them excellent communicators and problem-solvers. Sorchas tend to be creative thinkers who approach challenges with innovative perspectives and often serve as beacons of guidance for others.



These individuals typically exhibit strong leadership qualities combined with empathy, allowing them to inspire and motivate those around them while maintaining genuine connections. Their radiant personality often makes them natural centers of social circles, though they balance this with deep introspection and thoughtful consideration. Sorchas are known for their ability to bring clarity to complex situations and their talent for seeing the bigger picture while attending to important details. They often pursue careers that allow them to use their intellectual gifts while making meaningful contributions to their communities.
Individuals named Teige are often characterized by their artistic sensibility and intellectual depth, reflecting the name's original meaning of 'poet' or 'philosopher'. They tend to possess a natural elegance and grace that aligns with the description of being good-looking, often complemented by a thoughtful, observant nature. Teiges typically demonstrate strong communication skills and emotional intelligence, able to express complex ideas with clarity and sensitivity.



Their creative inclinations often manifest in various forms of artistic expression, whether through writing, visual arts, or musical pursuits. These individuals usually exhibit a balanced combination of intuition and rationality, making them excellent problem-solvers who can approach challenges from multiple perspectives. They tend to value deep, meaningful relationships and often serve as confidants and advisors within their social circles, bringing wisdom and compassion to their interactions while maintaining a quiet confidence that others find both reassuring and inspiring. This combination of inner depth and outward grace makes Teiges particularly effective in roles requiring both creativity and practical wisdom.
A mist-shrouded corner of rural Wales is drawing growing interest from travellers.

Rheidol Valley Ceredigion Aberystwyth,

The Rheidol Valley in Ceredigion has become one of Britains most sought-after scenic escapes, with travel experts at Ski Vertigo stating: Its one of the most magical landscapes in Britain, a hidden gem where waterfalls sparkle, trees whisper, and steam trains drift through the mist like something from a dream.

The valley stretches east from Aberystwyth along the 19-mile River Rheidol and is known for its dense woodland, steep gorges and the historic Vale of Rheidol Railway.

The Edwardian-era steam service runs from the coast to Devils Bridge, carrying passengers through deep forest and narrow cuttings. Locals say its whistle can be heard long before the train appears, echoing across the hillsides.

Devils Bridge remains the regions defining landmark. Three bridges from different centuries sit stacked above the 300-foot Mynach Falls. Local folklore claims the first was built by the Devil after villagers declared the gorge impossible to cross.

According to the tale, he demanded the soul of the first creature to step onto the bridge, but the villagers sent a dog instead, outwitting him.

Surrounding woodland adds to the areas atmosphere, with low light, moss-covered rocks and sudden waterfalls hidden in thick foliage. Visitors often report shifting mist, soft echoes underfoot and rainbow arcs forming above the falls.

According to Wales Online, a network of trails winds through the valley, though some routes become hazardous after rain. Travel experts describe the region as a forest full of secrets, where every path leads deeper into its story, and recommend the steam-train route from Aberystwyth to Devils Bridge for the best views.

Authorities advise early morning or late evening visits for the strongest sense of atmosphere. Tourism officials say interest continues to rise, crediting the mix of folklore, dramatic scenery and historic engineering that has given the Rheidol Valley its enduring fairytale reputation.

by Natalie key for www.femalefirst.co.uk


The name Telemachus evokes personality traits rooted in the character's mythological journey: thoughtful determination, deep loyalty, and a strong sense of responsibility. Individuals with this name are often perceived as patient strategists who grow into their strength over time, mirroring Telemachus's transformation from passive observer to active leader in the Odyssey. They typically exhibit intellectual curiosity and a methodical approach to problem-solving, preferring careful planning over impulsive action.



These individuals often demonstrate remarkable resilience in facing challenges, showing the courage to undertake difficult journeysboth literal and metaphoricalwhile maintaining their core values. The name suggests someone who values family heritage and tradition, yet possesses the independence to forge their own path. Their leadership style tends to be thoughtful and inclusive rather than authoritarian, reflecting Telemachus's collaborative approach with Mentor/Athena in reclaiming his birthright. The combination of loyalty, intelligence, and gradual self-actualization makes this name associated with individuals who earn respect through consistent character rather than forceful personality.
The name Telephus evokes personality traits of strategic intelligence, resilience, and diplomatic skill. Individuals with this name are often perceived as natural mediators who can navigate complex situations with wisdom and patience. They embody the heroic strength inherited from their mythological heritage while demonstrating the practical wisdom to know when to fight and when to negotiate. The mythological Telephus' ability to transform his wound into a source of healing power suggests individuals who can turn personal challenges into strengths and help others do the same. They tend to be bridge-builders between different groups or perspectives, possessing the emotional intelligence to understand multiple sides of a conflict. Their leadership style combines authority with compassion, and they often serve as stabilizing forces in turbulent situations, much like their namesake who brought order to Mysia.
Individuals named Torion are often perceived as strong, reliable, and protective, reflecting the name's origins connected to craggy hills and watchtowers. They tend to possess natural leadership qualities and a grounded, practical approach to problem-solving, much like the stable foundations of the geographical features their name references. There's often a sense of resilience and endurance associated with Torions, able to weather challenges with the same steadfastness as the Scottish hills from which the name derives.



Torions typically exhibit keen observational skills and strategic thinking, mirroring the watchtower aspect of their name's meaning. They're often the ones in their social or professional circles who provide guidance and protection to others, acting as natural guardians. Their personality combines the rugged independence of Highland culture with a deep sense of responsibility toward those they care about. While they may appear reserved or stoic at first, Torions usually reveal deep loyalty and commitment once trust is established, embodying the enduring strength suggested by their name's craggy hill origins.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Ula originated as a diminutive of Eulalia, a name with deep roots in Spanish Catholic tradition. Saint Eulalia of Merida, a young martyr from 4th century Spain, is one of the most revered saints in Spanish history, particularly in Barcelona where she is the co-patron saint. The name carries significant religious weight in Spanish-speaking countries, often associated with purity, courage, and steadfast faith. Throughout Spanish history, the name has been borne by noblewomen and religious figures, maintaining its connection to early Christian martyrdom and Spanish cultural identity.



In modern times, while its religious connotations remain, Ula has evolved into a more contemporary and accessible name while still honoring its historical roots. The name appears in Spanish literature and poetry, often representing feminine grace and intellectual depth. In Latin American cultures, Ula maintains its connection to Spanish heritage while adapting to local naming traditions, creating a bridge between European origins and New World identity.
Women named Volante typically exhibit a remarkable combination of grace and ambition, embodying the lightness and freedom their name suggests. They are often perceived as visionary individuals with an innate ability to see possibilities where others see limitations. Their personality is characterized by a natural elegance and fluidity in movement and thought, making them excellent problem-solvers who can navigate complex situations with apparent ease. Volantes tend to be highly creative, often excelling in artistic pursuits or innovative fields where their imaginative thinking can take flight.



They possess an infectious optimism and tend to inspire others with their ability to remain buoyant even in challenging circumstances. While they value their independence and freedom intensely, they also have a strong sense of loyalty to those they care about, creating relationships that feel both light and deeply meaningful. Their communication style is often poetic and metaphorical, reflecting their tendency to think in terms of possibilities rather than limitations. This combination of traits makes Volantes natural leaders in creative industries and transformative projects.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Wacfeld represents an important bridge between pre-Christian Anglo-Saxon traditions and early English Christianity. The name emerged during the 7th-8th centuries when Christian missionaries were establishing monasteries across England, often on lands donated by Anglo-Saxon nobles. The 'wake' element suggests vigilance and spiritual watchfulness, while 'field' represents both physical land and the metaphorical 'field of souls' that Christian clergy were responsible for tending. This dual meaning made the name particularly appealing to early English Christians who sought to maintain their cultural identity while embracing the new faith.



The name appears in several medieval charters and ecclesiastical records, indicating it was used by both minor nobility and clergy during the formative period of English Christianity. Its usage reflects the complex process of cultural synthesis that characterized the Christianization of England, where traditional Anglo-Saxon concepts were reinterpreted through a Christian lens. The name's association with land ownership and religious duty made it suitable for those who served as both earthly stewards and spiritual guides in their communities.
Cultural & Historical Significance

Wafiqah holds deep cultural significance in Muslim societies as a name embodying success and divine favor. Derived from the Arabic root 'w-f-q' meaning success and accomplishment, the name reflects Islamic values of striving for excellence while recognizing that true success comes from Allah's guidance. Historically, the name has been popular among educated families who value academic and professional achievement for their daughters. In many Muslim cultures, naming a daughter Wafiqah expresses the parents' hopes that she will be successful in both worldly matters and spiritual pursuits.



The name carries connotations of being 'in harmony with divine will' and achieving success through righteous means. Throughout Islamic history, women named Wafiqah have often been associated with educational advancement, community leadership, and breaking barriers in traditionally male-dominated fields while maintaining strong religious values. The cultural resonance of Wafiqah extends beyond individual achievement to represent collective progress - when a Wafiqah succeeds, her success is seen as benefiting her family and community. This reflects the Islamic principle that individual accomplishments should serve the greater good, making the name particularly meaningful in cultures that value community interdependence alongside personal achievement.
Cultural & Historical Significance

The name Westcott carries deep cultural significance as an English locational surname that transitioned into Christian given name usage. Originating from medieval England, it represents the practical naming conventions where individuals were identified by their geographical location or dwelling characteristics. The specific meaning 'from the west cottage' indicates not just a physical location but also social positioning within medieval communities, typically denoting free tenants or small landowners rather than serfs or nobility. This places Westcott families in the emerging middle class of medieval society, often associated with trade, craftsmanship, or minor landholding. In Christian contexts, the name gained additional layers of meaning, with 'west' sometimes interpreted symbolically as the direction of completion and eternal rest in biblical tradition, while 'cottage' evoked values of humility, simplicity, and the importance of home life celebrated in Christian teachings. The name's evolution from surname to given name during the 18th and 19th centuries reflects broader social changes including increased social mobility, the romanticization of rural life, and the desire to preserve family heritage while embracing Christian naming conventions. Throughout its history, Westcott has maintained associations with stability, tradition, and connection to place, making it a name that bridges practical origins with spiritual symbolism.
People named Yerachmiel are often characterized by their deep empathy and spiritual sensitivity. They tend to be naturally compassionate individuals who feel drawn to helping others and alleviating suffering. This innate mercy is typically balanced with strong moral principles and a sense of justice, creating individuals who are both kind and principled. Yerachmiels often possess contemplative natures, enjoying deep thought and philosophical discussion. They are frequently perceived as wise beyond their years and may serve as informal counselors within their social circles. Their combination of emotional intelligence and spiritual depth makes them excellent mediators and peacemakers. While they can be serious and reflective, they also typically exhibit warmth and genuine concern for others' wellbeing. The weight of their meaningful name often inspires them to live up to its spiritual implications, developing into individuals who embody the mercy and compassion their name represents.
Individuals named Zadornin are typically perceived as possessing remarkable resilience and steadfast character. They often demonstrate a quiet strength that enables them to endure challenges with remarkable composure, much like the planetary association with Saturn suggests discipline and perseverance. These individuals tend to be methodical in their approach to life, valuing structure and tradition while maintaining a deep sense of responsibility toward their family and community.



Their personality often combines practical wisdom with emotional depth, making them reliable confidants and natural leaders in times of crisis. While they may appear reserved initially, their loyalty and commitment to those they care about is unwavering and profound. This combination of endurance and emotional intelligence allows them to navigate complex social situations with grace and to build lasting relationships based on mutual trust and respect.
Resilient health systems play a vital role in ensuring that countries can effectively respond to everyday health needs and unexpected crises. In emerging economies, where infrastructure and resources are often limited, strengthening health systems is not just a technical challenge but a necessity. From assembling a skilled workforce to implementing sound policy and governance, several key areas require long-term planning.

Challenges such as uneven access to care, limited data infrastructure, and supply chain disruptions underscore the need for a comprehensive approach. Countries that prioritize local engagement, sustainable partnerships, and adaptive technologies tend to be better prepared for future shocks, as Armin Ernst MD highlights.

Understanding Resilient Health Systems

A resilient health system can absorb shocks, adapt to changing conditions, and continue providing essential services. In emerging economies, where gaps in infrastructure and resources are more common, resilience becomes a critical foundation for long-term public health outcomes.

The COVID-19 pandemic revealed how weak systems can become overwhelmed during crises, leading to disrupted care, supply shortages, and loss of trust. Countries with stronger frameworks in placesuch as early investment in local clinics or digital health coordinationwere able to respond more effectively and recover faster. Building this kind of resilience requires steady attention rather than reactive fixes.

Key Challenges Facing Emerging Economies

Health systems in many emerging economies face persistent structural challenges that limit their ability to serve populations effectively. Financial constraints often mean that hospitals and clinics operate with outdated equipment or limited supplies, making routine care and emergency response equally difficult.

Workforce shortages are another major hurdle. Many regions struggle with an uneven distribution of healthcare professionals, with rural areas especially underserved. In some countries, doctors and nurses leave for better-paying opportunities abroad, leaving behind critical gaps in care. This brain drain weakens national capacity and puts long-term public health goals at risk.

Access to essential medicines and reliable health data systems remains inconsistent. Without accurate information, planning becomes guesswork, and governments are unable to allocate resources where they're most needed. These issues compound during emergencies, when swift, data-driven decisions can mean the difference between containment and crisis. Strengthening logistics and investing in digital infrastructure are necessary to overcome these limitations.

Strengthening Core Health Services

Improving access to primary healthcare forms the backbone of any resilient system. Community-based clinics, when adequately staffed and resourced, can address most health needs before they escalate, reducing pressure on hospitals. In countries like Rwanda, investment in local health posts has led to stronger immunization rates and better maternal health outcomes.

Supply chain management also plays a pivotal role. Delays in delivering essential medicines or vaccines can undermine trust and disrupt disease prevention efforts. Streamlining procurement processes and investing in cold chain infrastructure helps ensure that critical supplies reach even remote communities on time.

Digital technologies offer additional support. Mobile health platforms, electronic medical records, and remote diagnostics are transforming service delivery in places with limited physical infrastructure. These tools not only improve patient outcomes but also enhance coordination and data collection across the system. As these technologies become more accessible, they offer a scalable solution for bridging gaps in traditional service models.

Assembling and Supporting a Skilled Workforce

A resilient health system cannot exist without a strong, motivated workforce. Many emerging economies face the dual challenge of training new healthcare professionals while retaining the ones they already have. Issues like poor compensation, limited career growth, and unsafe working conditions push skilled workers toward more stable opportunities elsewhere, often abroad.

In regions where governments have prioritized workforce development, the results are tangible. Countries that invest in medical education and offer performance-based incentives see improvements not only in staffing levels but also in the quality of care. Equitable distribution of healthcare workers, especially in rural and underserved areas, ensures that services reach those who need them most. Mentorship programs, training, and community engagement can further enhance workforce resilience.

Policy and Governance for System Stability

Effective governance is the backbone of any system. When policies align with long-term public health goals and are supported by reliable financing, systems become more stable and adaptable. Governments that embed health within their broader development agenda tend to foster more integrated and sustainable reforms. These integrated efforts also help align health priorities with social determinants like education and housing.

Transparency and accountability also play a critical role. When decision-making processes are open and inclusive, health policies are more likely to reflect community needs. In countries where citizen engagement is encouraged, public trust in the health system tends to grow, making it easier to implement large-scale initiatives and respond to crises. Moreover, strong institutions ensure that reforms outlast political cycles and maintain continuity in health planning.

Collaboration and Long-Term Planning

Partnerships and donor support can greatly accelerate health system development when aligned with local priorities. Rather than imposing one-size-fits-all solutions, successful collaborations adapt global expertise to the unique cultural, economic, and logistical realities on the ground.

Strategic planning must go beyond short-term crisis response. Long-term investments in infrastructure, education, and policy reform create a foundation that benefits generations, not just current needs. When these plans are institutionalized, they survive political transitions and ensure that progress continues without interruption.
Individuals named Zuriel are often perceived as having a grounded, stable nature that reflects the 'rock' meaning of their name. They tend to be reliable, steadfast, and dependablepeople others can count on during difficult times. This foundational stability is frequently complemented by strong moral principles and a deep sense of integrity, making Zuriels natural leaders and trusted confidants.



Beyond their solid exterior, Zuriels often possess a spiritual depth and contemplative nature. They may be drawn to philosophical or religious pursuits and typically approach life with thoughtful consideration rather than impulsive action. While they can be reserved initially, those who know them well appreciate their loyalty, wisdom, and the quiet strength they bring to relationships and communities. Their combination of practicality and spirituality makes them effective at bridging different perspectives and finding common ground.
Each November, Libby Egnor takes a Friday off work to cook a full Thanksgiving meal for Emory students who are part of the Goizueta Scholars Program.

She carefully arranges more than two dozen place settings with linens and silverware at her familys dining room table. In the kitchen, hot cider roars to a boil in an old-fashioned coffee urn with festive cloves and spices dancing on the surface  her mothers recipe.

Theres a million things I do to make it special, she says.

These are the kinds of thoughtful flourishes that have defined Egnors 25 years at the Emory Goizueta Business School, where she is associate dean. She is also the founding director of the Goizueta Scholars Program, which provides merit-based scholarships and co-curricular opportunities to outstanding high school students interested in pursuing a business degree.

Egnor and other Emory employees celebrating milestone service anniversaries of 25 years or more were honored at the annual Staff Service Awards Luncheon on Tuesday, Nov. 18.

Her Thanksgiving meal, affectionately known as scholarsgiving, has become a beloved tradition for both Egnor and the Goizueta Scholars.

I plan weeks in advance, she says. I love November and the anticipation leading up to the holidays, and I love to cook for people. For first- and second-year students living in the residence halls, its especially nice to have a home-cooked meal at this busy point of the semester. They enjoy the fellowship.

Goizueta Scholar Grant Huddleston, a senior finance major from Pittsburgh, recently attended his fourth and final scholarsgiving, which is held on a Friday before the actual holiday.

After his first visit to Egnors house in the fall of 2022, Huddleston began looking forward to the gathering months in advance, as soon as he arrived back to campus for the new school year. He says it serves as a much-needed mental reset and celebration of community ahead of final exams.

Egnors menu, he adds, has all the Thanksgiving classics. But Huddleston looked forward to one sweet potato dish in particular.

Heres how Egnor describes the dish, one of her biggest hits: roasted sweet potatoes on a bed of spicy yogurt mixed with lemon zest and fresh mint on top.

Shes an incredible chef, Huddleston says. The Thanksgiving dinner is emblematic of who she is. Those personal touches that make an impact are a core part of her identity.

She has a gift for hosting everyone in Goizueta, he adds. Scholarsgiving is a representation of that for a small group of us, but she is a host for each and every student in this home of the business community.



Investing in others

Egnor grew up in Ypsilanti, Michigan, raised by parents who were both first-generation college students. Their lessons on the value of education have stayed with her throughout her professional career, she says.

After graduating from the University of Michigan, she had a brief stint in government as a policy analyst before taking a job in faculty development at New York University. She came to Emory in 2000 as Goizuetas study abroad assistant director, and in 2005, joined the bachelor of business administration (BBA) program, which would change the trajectory of her time at Emory.

Egnor and Andrea Hershatter, Goizueta senior associate dean of undergraduate education, joined together to create the Goizueta Scholars Program, which launched in 2007.

The program is a tight-knit community for business-minded students before and after their matriculation into the school. Most students meet the requirements to enroll in Goizueta in either their sophomore or junior years.

We wanted to assure that, given Goizueta did not have first-year entry, we were still achieving top-of-mind awareness among the very best high schoolers in the world who wanted to pursue business, Hershatter says of the program. Libby made it her own in terms of crafting a special experience for the students.

Egnor became assistant dean of the BBA program in 2010 and is pivotal to all activities  especially those relating to the Goizueta Scholars. She crafted the framework of the program, including a robust advising strategy and a fall-semester seminar that includes scholars across class years.

Its a model where first-years, sophomores, juniors and seniors are all in the program together, Egnor explains, adding that there are four to seven students per cohort. The hallmark of the business school is older students help younger students. That is without a doubt our secret sauce.

Hershatter says that, beyond the scholars program, Egnor is essential to Goizuetas daily operations  from creating a system to provide exam-disability accommodations to helping students and their families in moments of personal or academic crisis.

None of these tasks are easy, Hershatter says, and they all require deep empathy, institutional knowledge and creativity. Were extraordinarily lucky to have somebody as adept and compassionate as Libby is at navigating all this.

Hershatter recalls a moment several years ago on a Goizueta-led ski trip when the groups bus was stuck in the snow. As the driver watched helplessly, Egnor took one of the skis out from the luggage compartment and started to dig the packed snow away from the buss entrenched wheel.

If you need to know anything about Libby, just look at that, Hershatter says. She has a salt-of-the-earth, can-do Michigan background, and comes from family that instilled in her the deeply transformative power of education above all. I think that very much shapes the attitude she brings to work every day.

Its an attitude that Hershatter says makes her own job easier.

Shes a great person with whom to brainstorm ideas that she helps me reflect upon and improve, Hershatter says. Weve been working together so long that she can also read my mind better than any person in the world.

Huddleston has also felt the impact of Egnors personal support.

Libby is the reason Im at this school, he says, noting that he first met her during the scholarship selection process. Shes guided me academically and helped me sink into enjoying my time at Emory. Shes been around 25 years and has this repertoire of stories and lessons. The guidance she gives is individually tailored, but its informed and enriched by every student shes advised before.

Egnor says she enjoys sharing what shes learned over the years and watching students undergo their individual journeys of self-discovery.

It is so much work figuring out who you are as a person, and you need people on your team to help you, she says. And when you have people on your team and feel like you're supported, the doors swing wide open.





Words of wisdom

The written word carries a profound power, Egnor says.

She honors that belief each May by gifting a hand-selected novel to each graduating Goizueta Scholar.

I pick books that remind me of them or that I think theyll like, she says. I love to do that because fiction helps you see the whole person and empathize with those who are different than you.

It is also a reminder, Egnor says, that she is in their corner  and that someone has taken the time to think specifically about them and their interests.

When they start their new job and come home from work, she adds, I want them to have a book to help get them on the path of reading for pleasure.

As Huddlestons final semester approaches, he says he and his fellow graduating scholars are eagerly awaiting Egnors personalized book selections.

You watch the seniors before you go through that process, he explains, and when its your turn, youre like, Wow, whats it going to be? Ill find out in a couple months, but I know Libby will pick the best and most meaningful book for me.

Earlier this year, Huddleston says he was working hard on a group project that culminated in an important presentation. The morning of their talk, he and his classmates arrived at the business school to find Egnor waiting with bags of homemade apple-cider caramels and handwritten notes for each student  one of countless thoughtful gestures over her 25 years of supporting students in ways big and small.

As I go into my own adulthood and think about making an impact, he says, I will carry with me the concept of providing that personal touch. A handwritten note goes such a long way.

Note: As of 2025, all high school seniors who apply for merit scholarship are now part of the Emory University scholar pool. Selected students who receive a Woodruff Scholarship and enter the BBA Program additionally join the existing Goizueta Scholars Program.

Photos courtesy of Libby Egnor, except where noted.
The upcoming fan meeting of actor Lee Jong Suk in Manila has been suddenly cancelled, according to an announcement by his agency.

On November 17 KST, A-Man Project, an agency under Ace Factory, announced the cancelation via their official channels.

The agency said, "The 2025 Lee Jong Suk Asia Fanmeeting Tour [With: Just Like This] in Manila, scheduled to take place on November 30, 2025 at the Araneta Coliseum, has been canceled due to unforeseen circumstances."

According to allkpop, the agency explained, "After careful consideration, we decided to prioritize the safety of fans, the artist, and all staff members, as a large demonstration is scheduled to take place on the same day. We ask for your understanding regarding this decision."

They added in the notice, "We sincerely apologize to all the fans who were looking forward to this fan meeting and ask for your understanding for any inconvenience caused by this cancellation. We truly hope that Lee Jong Suk will be able to meet his Filipino fans again in the near future." The agency also revealed that refund details will be announced via the local promoter.

Manila is presently gripped by widespread unrest linked to corruption claims involving a government-initiated flood-control project. The announcement placed the expected number of participants at approximately 650,000 demonstrators, adding to safety concerns that prompted the cancellation of the event.

After the announcement, fans from Manila and social media expressed mixed emotions. Positive remarks from fans are introduced by a neutral sentence: "Thank you for putting the safety of fans and the actor first," "Safety comes first," and "What matters is that Lee Jong Suk is safe."

Other fans shared their disappointment about such a sudden change through Reddit. Some said, "I already booked my flight to Manila and prepared fan support giftscanceling without postponing is hard to accept," and "Why not reschedule for next year instead of canceling?"

The cancellation marks a rare disruption in the actor's tour of fan meetings in Asia, but his agency expressed hopes of reconnecting with Filipino fans when circumstances allow.
Bharti Airtel, Reliance Jio and Vodafone Idea (Vi) all reported sequential improvements in ARPU, supported by smartphone upgrades, higher data usage and a richer subscriber mix.

Airtel maintained its industry lead with an ARPU of Rs256 per month, up 2.2 per cent quarter-on-quarter. Jio's ARPU rose 1.2 per cent to Rs 211.4, while Vi's increased to Rs 167 amid improving data consumption and premium-plan adoption.

Subscriber additions remained strong for the top two operators. Jio added 8.3 million users during the quarter, taking its base to 506.4 million, while Airtel added 1.4 million subscribers, expanding its India wireless base to 364.2 million. Vodafone Idea, however, continued to lose subscribers, reporting a net decline of about one million subscribers.

5G adoption accelerated through the quarter, Jio's 5G user base touched 234 million, while Airtel continued to upgrade customers as device penetration improved.

Fixed wireless access (FWA) remained a key catalyst in home broadband growth. Airtel added 0.95 million home broadband users, including FWA, during the quarter, while Jio added over a million home broadband connections per month through the period.

Vodafone Idea expanded 5G services across all 17 spectrum circles and scaled coverage to 29 cities. The operator added 10,829 broadband sites in Q2, pushing its total to over 527,000. Centrum noted that Vi's net debt remains elevated, making execution on 4G expansion and faster 5G rollout critical for operational stability.

Indus Towers, the country's largest tower company, reported steady tenancy additions, with 4,301 towers and 4,505 co-locations added during the quarter. The total portfolio now stands at 256,074 towers and 415,717 co-locations.

Tata Communications posted 6.5 per cent year-on-year revenue growth on the back of rising demand in digital services and a stable connectivity business. EBITDA margins improved to 19.2 per cent.

On the Internet and digital-platform side, operational trends were mixed during the quarter. (ANI)
Police are investigating a Japanese woman in her 50s for allegedly attempting to break into BTS member Jungkook's residence multiple times over a three-day period earlier this month.

The Yongsan Police Station confirmed on Wednesday that the unnamed woman is under investigation for attempted trespassing. According to authorities, the suspect repeatedly pressed the digital keypad lock at Jungkook's Yongsan-gu residence between last Wednesday, Nov. 12, and late Friday, Nov. 14.

The report was filed on Friday last week, the final day of the incident, per Korea Joongang Daily.

Police stated they have not yet confirmed whether the woman has returned to Japan. Investigators plan to question Jungkook to establish the complete facts of the case and determine the appropriate charges.

The Japanese woman's identity was not publicly released.

The recent incident marked yet another alarming addition to an increasingly worrying trend of security violations at Jungkook's home since his discharge from mandatory military service in June 2025. Over the past five months, the BTS member has become the repeated target of individuals attempting unauthorized entry to his residence.

The first incident occurred on the very day Jungkook completed his 18-month military enlistment. A woman in her 30s from China was arrested at approximately 11:20 p.m. after attempting to enter the residence by repeatedly trying different passwords at the front door. She was taken into custody on charges of attempted trespassing and was subsequently referred to prosecutors for investigation.

During questioning, the woman stated she had traveled to South Korea specifically to see Jungkook following his military discharge. However, Seoul Western District Prosecutors later granted the woman a suspended prosecution, which meant the charges against her were dropped. It was later reported that she had already flown back to her home country, according to Yonhap News.

Another security breach occurred when a woman in her 40s was arrested for trespassing in the underground parking space of Jungkook's residence on August 30. According to witnesses and police reports, she followed a vehicle through the entrance, loitered around the building, and attempted to flee when authorities arrived. The woman provided a confusing explanation to officers, claiming she had entered because it was "a friend's house."

Jungkook revealed during a Weverse live broadcast celebrating his birthday on Sept. 1 that he personally witnessed the parking lot incident unfold on closed-circuit television.

"I was watching everything from home. When the police arrived, she tried to run out of the basement car park in a panic," he recounted.

Expressing his frustration, the 28-year-old artist criticized the invasion of privacy while issuing a stark warning to any potential intruders.
NewsVoir Bangalore (Karnataka) [India], November 19: Founded by Gurudev Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, The Art of Living has been nationally recognised for its large scale environmental leadership with two prestigious honours at the 6th National Water Awards and the Jal Sanchay Jan Bhagidari Awards 1.0 presented by the Ministry of Jal Shakti, Government of India. Receiving the Best NGO for Water Conservation title along with a national recognition under the Best Civil Society category, the organisation continues to shape India's water security and ecological resilience with impactful, community driven action. The award was received by Shri Prasana Prabhu, Chairman of Art of Living's Sri Sri Institute of Agricultural Sciences and Technology Trust (AOL-SSIAST) and the Sri Sri Rural Development Programme Trust (AOL-SSRDP), along with Shri Br Pragyachaitanya, Chairman of Art of Living's Vyakti Vikas Kendra. The ceremony was graced by the Hon'ble President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, underscoring the national importance of water sustainability. She was joined by Shri C. R. Patil, Union Jal Shakti Minister, Shri V. Somanna and Shri Raj Bhushan Choudhary, Ministers of State for Jal Shakti, Shri Ashok K. K. Meena, Secretary, Drinking Water and Sanitation, and Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, Secretary, Water Resources and Ganga Rejuvenation. During the ceremony, President Smt Droupadi Murmu noted that climate change is disrupting the water cycle and stressed that government and citizens must work together with steady commitment toward water availability and water security. She highlighted that along with water treatment and recirculation, several industrial units have already achieved zero pollutant discharge. Reinforcing the spirit of national collaboration, Shri C. R. Patil praised the efforts of organisations contributing to Jal Sanchay and Janbhagidari. In this movement, The Art of Living has emerged as a key contributor by reviving 75+ rivers and creating more than 1,05,000 recharge structures that conserve over 174 billion litres of water. This work has improved water access for 3.45 crore people across 20,000 villages, strengthening community resilience. Aligned with the national call for shared responsibility, AOL SSRDP is driving a measurable impact on the ground. The organisation has been reducing water pollution by treating contaminated water, promoting the recirculation of processed water, and preventing further discharge of pollutants into rivers and water bodies. Through its JalShuddhi initiative, it has restored 152 polluted water bodies, strengthening groundwater recharge and urban water resilience. This includes the revival of 102 temple ponds in Chennai, 11 drains in Agra, 24 drains in Pune, and the Barapulla drain in Delhi NCR, creating clear evidence of sustained ecological healing driven by community participation and scientific intervention. Shri V. L. Kantha Rao, said that the Namami Gange Mission has become a national model for pollution control and river basin rejuvenation. In this direction, AOL-SSIAST is promoting Natural Farming in Uttar Pradesh's Kanpur and Raebareli, ensuring cleaner recharge into the Ganga. Under the Namami Gange Project, more than 4,500 farmers have been trained and about 3,500 hectares converted to chemical free cultivation along the river. This shift is reducing chemical runoff and strengthening water conservation in the basin. Till now AOL-SSIAST has trained 3 million farmers across 24 states and facilitated the planting of 100 million trees in 36 countries. On receiving the award, Chairman (AOL-SSIAST & AOL-SSRDP)Shri Prasana Prabhu said, I offer my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon'ble President of India, the Ministry of Jal Shakti, and every volunteer and partner supporting this mission. This recognition strengthens our resolve to advance water conservation and pollution mitigation. The Art of Living * 800 million lives impacted in 180 countries* 75+ rivers and tributaries revived* 3 million farmers trained in Natural Farming across 24 states* 100 million trees planted in 36 countries and 26 states* 8,00,000+ lives transformed, with the Prison Program active in 65 countries* 4,75,000+ youth trained in livelihood skills across 500 districts* 1,327 free schools educating 1,00,000+ children in 2,032 villages Support the Mission Contribute to the Art of Living's Sri Sri Rural Development Programs and help expand these initiatives: ssrdp.artofliving.org/donate-ssrdp Join Us in Making a Difference AOL-SSIAST ssiast.artofliving.org x.com/ssiast www.facebook.com/ssiast.artofliving instagram.com/ssiast_artofliving www.youtube.com/@SSIAST AOL-SSRDP ssrdp.artofliving.org x.com/srisrirdp www.facebook.com/SriSriRDP www.instagram.com/srisrirdp www.youtube.com/@srisriRDP (ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by NewsVoir. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same)
Sergey Chemezov, CEO of Russia's Rostec state corporation, has affirmed that the company will support India with whatever defence capabilities it may require. On being asked if there is any official communication from India regarding the additional S400 systems or the Su-57, he said, "We have strong relations with India, and whatever India requires, we are here to support." The Rostec CEO noted that they continued to supply essential military equipment to India, despite geopolitical constraints. "India and Russia have been partners for many years. Even when India was under sanctions, we supplied the country with weapons to ensure its security. Today, we continue the same approach as in previous years, supplying India with whatever military equipment it needs and ensuring our mutual interests in developing cooperation," he told ANI, speaking on the sidelines of the Dubai Air Show 2025. At the Dubai 2025 air show, a senior representative of Russia's state arms exporter Rosoboronexport outlined what Moscow is offering India for future air combat programmes. Describing the Su-57, he said, "Rosoboronexport offers to India both license production of air weapons for future generation aircraft and integration of Indian weapons." The official added that Russia and UAC are offering India the Su-57 produced in Russia along with a pathway to shift production to India in stages. As part of this, he said, Rosoboronexport is offering "technology transfer" and "technological learning of few generation technologies, including engines, optics, AESA radar, AI elements, low signature technologies and modern air weapons." Meanwhile, during his Moscow visit, EAM Jaishankar met Putin, Russian Foreign Minister Sergeyy Lavrov and and attended the SCO head of government summit. In New Delhi, Putin's aide, who is the Chairman of the Maritime Board of the Russian Federation, Nikolai Patrushev, called on PM Narendra Modi on November 18. They exchanged views on strengthening cooperation in the maritime domain, including new opportunities for collaboration in connectivity, skill development, shipbuilding and blue economy. The Prime Minister conveyed his warm greetings to President Putin and said that he looked forward to hosting him in India next month. (ANI)
Prosecutors have launched an investigation into allegations that a former executive of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) stole the chipmaker's secrets related to its advanced processes and transferred them to a foreign entity, Focus Taiwan reported. The Taiwan High Prosecutors Office said Tuesday its Intellectual Property Branch has initiated the probe into the actions of Lo Wei-jen, who allegedly stole restricted information on TSMC's 2 nanometer, A16 and A14 processes before retiring as TSMC's senior vice president for corporate strategy development in July. Fears are that he then turned over the trade secrets to Intel, his former employer, when he returned to work at the American chipmaking rival in late October, a few months after retiring from TSMC. According to local media reports, Lo asked his subordinates before retiring to brief him about these advanced technologies and took the confidential documents with him. What sparked suspicions of wrongdoing, according to the Liberty Times, is the sheer volume of information Lo took with him when he left TSMC and then unexpectedly turned up at Intel. According to the newspaper, Lo took more than 80 boxes of data and books when he departed, raising internal suspicions at TSMC. Lo left TSMC after 21 years of service and had been seen as one of the most influential figures in the company's high-end technology development, reports said. Before joining TSMC in 2004, Lo worked at Intel as director of advanced technology development and general manager of the U.S. chipmaker's fab in Santa Clara, California, in charge of the graphics processing unit's manufacturing operations, the reports added. According to the news reports, TSMC is collecting evidence in preparation for legal action against Lo. Prosecutors said the investigation aimed to determine whether Lo has been involved in any wrongdoing. Commenting on Lo's involvement, Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin said Wednesday the ministry is seeking a better understanding of the situation. Kung said the MOEA will work closely with the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office to see whether Lo has violated the National Security Act, given that semiconductors have become a core technology in Taiwan's industrial development. The MOEA is also watching closely whether Lo's actions have undermined Taiwan's semiconductor supply chain and its ties with clients. The most advanced process currently being mass produced by TSMC is the 3nm process. It is scheduled to start mass production of the 2nm process later this year, the A16 process in the first half of 2026, and the A14 process in 2028. (ANI)
Mumbai (Maharashtra) [India], November 19: The Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) has approved the Draft Red Herring Prospectus of Pajson Agro India Limited for IPO. The company is going public through an IPO to fund the establishment of a second cashew processing facility at Vizianagaram, Andhra Pradesh. The company has plan to issue fresh Issue up to 63,09,600 equity shares, each with a face value of 10, in the forthcoming IPO.

About Pajson Agro India Limited:

Pajson Agro India Limited is engaged in processing raw cashew nuts into kernels for domestic and international markets. The company offers various grades of cashew nuts, processed and packaged in both bulk and consumer retail packs. It also markets select dry fruits under its white-label brand "Royal Mewa" through a mix of e-commerce platforms and offline distribution channels. Additionally, the company utilizes by-products such as cashew husks and shells for agricultural and industrial applications, generating added value from its processing operations.

(ADVERTORIAL DISCLAIMER: The above press release has been provided by PNN. ANI will not be responsible in any way for the content of the same.)
Prosecutors have launched an investigation into allegations that a former executive of Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co (TSMC) stole the chipmaker's secrets related to its advanced processes and transferred them to a foreign entity, Focus Taiwan reported on Wednesday. According to the news report, the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office said Tuesday that its Intellectual Property Branch has initiated a probe into the actions of Lo Wei-jen, who allegedly stole restricted information on TSMC's 2-nanometer, A16, and A14 processes before retiring as TSMC's senior vice president for corporate strategy development in July. Fears are that he then turned over the trade secrets to Intel, his former employer, when he returned to work at the American chipmaking rival in late October, a few months after retiring from TSMC, the Focus Taiwan report has claimed. Focus Taiwan, citing local media reports, noted that Lo asked his subordinates, before retiring, to brief him on these advanced technologies and took the confidential documents with him. According to the Liberty Times, what sparked suspicions of wrongdoing is the sheer volume of information Lo took with him when he left TSMC and then unexpectedly turned up at Intel, Focus Taiwan reported. According to the newspaper, Lo took more than 80 boxes of data and books when he departed, raising internal suspicions at TSMC. Lo left TSMC after 21 years of service and was seen as one of the most influential figures in the company's high-end technology development, reports said, according to Focus Taiwan. Before joining TSMC in 2004, Lo worked at Intel as director of advanced technology development and general manager of the U.S. chipmaker's fab in Santa Clara, California, in charge of the graphics processing unit's manufacturing operations, the reports added, per Focus Taiwan. According to the news reports, TSMC is collecting evidence in preparation for legal action against Lo. Prosecutors said the investigation aimed to determine whether Lo has been involved in any wrongdoing. Commenting on Lo's involvement, Economics Minister Kung Ming-hsin said Wednesday the ministry is seeking a better understanding of the situation, the Focus Taiwan report added. Kung said the MOEA will work closely with the Taiwan High Prosecutors' Office to see whether Lo has violated the National Security Act, given that semiconductors have become a core technology in Taiwan's industrial development. The MOEA is also watching closely whether Lo's actions have undermined Taiwan's semiconductor supply chain and its ties with clients. The most advanced process currently being mass-produced by TSMC is the 3nm process. It is scheduled to start mass production of the 2nm process later this year, the A16 process in the first half of 2026, and the A14 process in 2028, the Focus Taiwan report concluded. (ANI)
The newly flagged platforms are Starnet FX (www.starnetfx.com), CapPlace (www.capplace.com), Mirrox (www.mirrox.com), Fusion Markets (www.fusionmarkets.com), Trive (www.trive.com), NXG Markets (www.nxgmarkets.com) and Nord FX (www.nordfx.com).

The central bank's notice said that these platforms are not authorised to deal in forex transactions under the Foreign Exchange Management Act (FEMA).

RBI has repeatedly warned investors and consumers to avoid online platforms offering leveraged forex trading, margin trading, or contracts in foreign exchange not conducted through authorised channels.

RBI's Alert List is intended to help the public identify entities that may pose risks, especially as online forex trading scams have been rising in recent years. The regulator has urged users to transact only through RBI-authorised dealers and refrain from using unregulated digital platforms that promise high returns.

The central bank also reminds consumers that unauthorised forex trading can lead not only to financial losses but also to potential penalties under Indian law.

RBI's 'Alert List' features platfoms that are not authorised to conduct foreign exchange transactions under the Foreign Exchange Management Act, 1999 (FEMA), nor permitted to run electronic trading platforms (ETPs) under the Electronic Trading Platforms (Reserve Bank) Directions, 2018.

'Alert List' also contains entities, platforms, and websites that appear to promote unauthorised forex platforms, whether through advertisements or by claiming to offer training or advisory services connected to such unauthorised entities. (ANI)
On this occasion, Manoj Joshi and Chittranjan Tripathi, Director of NSD, emphasised the significance of extending NSD's reach to Mumbai.

Speaking to ANI, Manoj Joshi said, "This is truly a moment of great joy. Mumbai, being the heart of the drama, television, and film industry, makes it especially significant that the National School of Drama now has a centre here."

He added, "Aspiring artists will have the opportunity to learn from experienced teachers and lecturers through a year-long, production-oriented training program. I believe that those who study here will not only refine their craft but also nurture and carry forward the spirit of their art."

Chittranjan Tripathi also urged aspiring artists to visit the NSD centre in Mumbai and gain valuable learning experiences.

"Come here and study, and work hard on yourself. Because there is no guarantee of anything in the world, not even of breathing. But if you work hard, then there is no alternative to that," he said.

Pradeep Mohanti, Professor Waman Kendre, Raghubir Yadav, Meeta Vashisht, Zakir Hussain, Swanand Kirkire, Atul Tiwari, and Sameer Upadhyay were also present at the event. (ANI)
Actor Ethan Slater praised his girlfriend Ariana Grande's performance in the upcoming film 'Wicked: For Good', during the movie's premiere in New York City, according to People. Speaking at the premiere, Slater said, "Ariana Grande's performance is out of this world and Cynthia Erivo's performance is unbelievable." He also commended his co-stars, adding, "And Johnny Bailey is so beautiful, and Michelle Yeoh and Jeff Goldblum, and I got to work with Marissa Bode, you know, from this close away for this whole movie and yet getting to see her on the big screen, it's just so moving." Slater reflected on the film's evolution from the first instalment, saying, "I'm so proud of this movie and it's so different from the first one, and yet it feels like the obvious true continuation of it." He also praised the off-screen friendship between Grande and Erivo, who portrays Elphaba Thropp, later known as the Wicked Witch of the West. "They really do just communicate off camera even more than they do on camera. And I think that that's what makes their friendship really beautiful to witness is the ways that they help each other through... the craziness of this," Slater added, as reported by People. People first confirmed Slater and Grande's relationship in July 2023. Earlier this year, Grande offered rare insights into their relationship while chatting with mutual friend Sean Hayes. "Yes, he loves you so much," Grande said, to which Hayes responded, "I love him too. Ethan Slater. He's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet in your life." Grande recently shared a carousel of photos from the London premiere of Wicked: For Good, highlighting the couple's closeness. A source told People on Nov. 12, "They both have a lot going on, but their relationship is the real deal. They're incredibly supportive of each other's careers and so excited for everyone to see their new film," according to People. 'Wicked: For Good' is scheduled to hit theatres on November 21. (ANI)
Shiv Sena-UBT leader Anand Dubey took potshots at the Congress following its dismal performance in the Bihar assembly elections and claimed the party may be "reduced to 2-4seats" in the upcoming Mumbai civic body elections. "Congress is the sole national party in the Maha Vikas Aghadi, and it occasionally rekindles its aspiration to become a national force. However, it seems Congress has overlooked its recent setbacks in Bihar... Congress says that joining forces with the Maharashtra Navnirman Sena will anger North Indians. What kind of MNS was there in Bihar? In Bihar, Congress, with the RJD, reduced its tally from 61 seats to 6. In Mumbai, it seems they'll only be reduced to 2-4 seats. Still, Congress is an independent party. If Congress thinks it's too powerful, let them see... A sleeping person can't be awakened...," Dubey told ANI in response to a question about Congress's decision to "contest polls independently". Meanwhile, putting speculations to rest, Maharashtra Minister and BJP leader Chandrashekhar Bawankule said on Tuesday that the BJP, Shiv Sena and the NCP in the Mahayuti alliance will contest the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) elections in the state together. Speaking to reporters in Nagpur, Bawankule said that the alliance aims to secure two-thirds wards and a 51 per cent vote share in the BMC polls. "In the Mumbai Municipal Corporation elections, Mahayuti will contest together. Our aim is to secure two-thirds of the seats and 51 per cent of the vote share to form the government in the Mumbai Municipal Corporation," the BJP leader said. November 21 is the last date for withdrawal of nomination papers in places where there is no appeal, while the last date for withdrawal of nomination papers in places where there is an appeal is November 25. The polling for the elections for the posts of members and direct president of 246 Municipal Councils and 42 Nagar Panchayats, a total of 288, in the state will be held on December 2. The counting of votes will be held on December 3. (ANI)
Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal attended a "Kirtan Darbar" at Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi in Srinagar on Tuesday. Ministers of the Punjab Cabinet were also present. Kejriwal told reporters that the Punjab Govt is organising functions at Anandpur Sahib on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadar. "I invite people everywhere in the world" "More and more people should be a part of this and honour his supreme martyrdom. I consider myself really fortunate to have had the opportunity to come to such a holy place. To initiate the Yatra that begins for Anandpur Sahib tomorrow (Wednesday), I am here with Mann sahab. I received the opportunity to be a part of it. I consider myself highly fortunate..." CM Mann said that a jathha will leave here for Anandpur Sahib tomorrow (Wednesday) "The jathha will include Kashmiri Pandits too...The jathha will pass through Jammu, Pathankot, Hoshiarpur, Dasuya and Garhshankar to finally reach Anandpur Sahib on 22nd November. Three more such jathhas will leave from Amritsar Sahib, Damdama Sahib and Tarn Taran Sahib, and all these jathhas will come together on November 22-23" He said that a major convention will be held in remembrance of Guru Sahib on November 23-24 "An all-faith convention will also be held. Kirtan will also be held. There will be a drone show, a light and sound show to tell people about his life...Historic decisions, that were never taken before, will be taken in the convention," he added. Guru Tegh Bahadur, born in Amritsar in 1621 to Guru Hargobind and Mata Nanki, is remembered for his profound spiritual teachings and ultimate sacrifice. He laid down his life to uphold the principles of religious freedom and human dignity. Beyond the Sikh community, Guru Tegh Bahadur's teachings offer universal messages of courage, compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice. His martyrdom stands as a symbol of resistance against oppression, and his life continues to inspire the pursuit of peace, tolerance, and equality. (ANI)
Millie Bobby Brown drew a firm line with London paparazzi this week as the Stranger Things star defended her baby daughter from intrusive photographers. In a fan-shot video shared on X, the 21-year-old actress is seen stepping out of a van with her daughter in her arms, the infant wrapped in a blanket to prevent camera flashes from catching her face. Several men attempted to move closer despite the clear efforts to shield the child, prompting Brown to turn away and firmly tell them, 'Get away from me'. Her husband, Jake Bongiovi, and co-star Noah Schnapp, the baby's godfather, followed closely behind as she made her way into her hotel.

The actress later faced another tense moment during the Stranger Things Season 5 UK premiere. Photographers repeatedly urged her to smile as she walked the red carpet, eventually pushing her to snap back, 'Smile? You smile...' before continuing down the line. The viral clip has fuelled conversations online about celebrity boundaries, media behaviour and the ongoing struggle stars face when protecting their families from aggressive paparazzi culture. Brown, who has grown up in the public eye, has previously spoken about the pressure that comes with constant scrutiny.

In a recent British Vogue interview, Brown stressed that she will not reveal her daughter's name or identity until the child is old enough to decide for herself. The actress emphasised the importance of allowing her daughter to have control over her own story. Her public stand in London underscores a message she has been repeating for months: fame may be part of her life, but her baby's privacy is not up for negotiation.

Originally published on IBTimes UK
BJP National General Secretary Radha Mohan Das Agarwal slammed the Mahagathbandhan after its dismal performance in the Bihar assembly elections and claimed that the "INDI Thug-Bandhan never existed". The BJP leader claimed that West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is not supporting the INDIA bloc and questioned the loyalty of other opposition leaders to it. "I'm among those who believe there was never an alliance. I've always called it a "Maha-thug-bandhan." I've never used the word "Mahagathbandhan," and it was over from the very first day it was formed... Mamata Banerjee is not with them. Akhilesh Yadav made a statement that Congress is now dead. Is he with them, or not? Is the DMK with them? After the Bihar elections, Chief Minister MK Stalin stated that elections are won only by working on the ground, not through any other means. Is Sharad Pawar with them? If not, then who is in their alliance?," Agarwal told ANI. He alleged that Congress MP Rahul Gandhi insulted" RJD leader Tejashwi Yadav and claimed that "INDI Thug-Bandhan" never got off the ground. "All that was left was Bihar, in which Rahul Gandhi shot himself in the foot. The way he unnecessarily insulted Tejashwi Yadav was a deliberate strategy to lose the election. Poor Tejashwi Yadav went to Delhi. The Congress filed all the cases against Lalu Yadav. Neither Rahul Gandhi nor Mallikarjun Kharge met him... Congress got 23 seats in the last election and six seats in this election. I hear even those six are running away to some other party... The INDI Thug-Bandhan never existed, never exists, never will exist. This was a rumour spread by Rahul Gandhi, which has been completely exposed and has ended...," he added. The ruling NDA got 202 seats, a three-fourths majority in the 243-member House. This is the second time the NDA has crossed the 200-mark in the assembly polls. In the 2010 polls, it had won 206 seats. The BJP emerged as the single largest party, winning 89 seats. JD(U) won 85 seats, LJP (RV) won 19 seats, HAM (S) won 5 seats, and RLM won 4 seats. Mahagathbandhan got just 35 seats with Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) winning 25 seats, Congress 6, Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) - CPI(ML)(L) - two, Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) - one and Communist Party of India (Marxist) - CPI(M) one seat. While All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) won five seats, and the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) got one seat. (ANI)
The Jana Raj Bhavan Media Cell announced on Tuesday that the West Bengal Governor C V Ananda Bose has granted sanction for prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988, against two former senior officials of the West Bengal Board of Primary Education. According to the Special Task Force official, those named in the sanction order are Manik Bhattacharya, former Chairman of the Board, and Ratna Chakraborty Bagchi, who served as the Board's Secretary. The approval for prosecution follows a detailed investigation conducted by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) and the submission of its final report. In a post shared on X, Jana Raj Bhavan Media Cell said, "The Hon'ble Governor has granted sanction for prosecution under the Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988. This sanction has been granted against (1) Shri Manik Bhattacharya, then Chairman, West Bengal Board of Primary Education, and (2) Smt. Ratna Chakraborty Bagchi, then Secretary, West Bengal Board of Primary Education -- based on the CBI's investigation and final report, in compliance with the request presented by the CBI. Special Task Force Official." https://x.com/BengalGovernor/status/1990824169936990306 The action marks a significant development in the ongoing probe into alleged irregularities in primary school recruitment. Meanwhile, Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha on Tuesday said that during the UPA government, the country had witnessed massive corruption and scams, and stated that the BJP will also form the government in West Bengal, ending the jungle raj, said the release. "...Tomorrow I will go to Bihar to attend the oath-taking ceremony. Everyone knows that in Bihar, there was goonda raj and corruption, but after the NDA government was formed, everything changed. People don't want goonda raj, jungle raj, and corruption," said CM Saha. "During the UPA government, we had several scams, but the BJP government is making the country powerful. PM Modi has ensured the safety and protection of the country and its people. Earlier, our soldiers used to come under attack, but the then government did not take any steps, and unrest prevailed before 2014. The same condition was in the North East. But after 2014, everything has changed. In Tripura, some people are being misled and misused by being provoked. I want to tell them to join the BJP, and the door is open," he added. (ANI)
In a post shared on X, the Union Minister said, "Had a productive meeting with Hon'ble Chief Minister of Nagaland, Shri Neiphiu Rio Ji, on strengthening aviation connectivity in the state. We explored solutions to the topographical and logistical challenges in advancing Nagaland's airport infrastructure."

https://x.com/rammnk/status/1990803763205189698

Emphasising Nagaland's immense potential, the minister highlighted that the state's rich natural beauty, cultural vibrancy, and growing tourism appeal would greatly benefit from improved direct flight connectivity to major Indian cities. Another major point of discussion was the state's strong air-cargo potential.

"Nagaland, with its rich natural beauty and vibrant culture, stands to benefit greatly from enhanced direct flight connectivity to major Indian cities. Our discussions also focused on the strong air cargo potential of the state, especially for its high-quality perishable fruits and fishery products," Kinjarapu's X post further read.

Meanwhile, India's aviation and air cargo sectors showcased their rapid ascent and global ambitions at the 11th PHDCCI Global Aviation & Air Cargo Conclave held at Yashobhoomi Convention Centre on Tuesday.

Under the theme "Gateway to the Skies: Elevating India's Aviation, Air Cargo & MRO Ecosystem for Global Leadership," the day-long event brought together Union ministers, diplomats, international technology providers, and industry captains to chart a roadmap for India to emerge as a dominant player in global aviation.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Rammohan Naidu outlined a series of flagship initiatives propelling the sector forward, including the PM Gatishakti National Master Plan, the National Logistics Policy 2022, and the I-CLASS cargo enhancement programme targeting 79 airports by 2030.

The minister also highlighted the "One Airport One Product" scheme designed to boost regional exports, especially perishables and high-value goods. (ANI)
A public interest litigation (PIL) has been filed in the Supreme Court seeking a court-monitored investigation into the alleged large-scale bank fraud involving Anil Ambani's Reliance Communications Ltd and its subsidiary groups. After considering the grounds raised in the plea, a bench led by the Chief Justice of India (CJI) BR Gavai on Tuesday issued notices to the central government, the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI), and the Enforcement Directorate (ED), seeking their responses to the plea. The plea filed by former Union secretary EAS Sarma states that the alleged fraud committed by Anil Ambani's RCOM requires an independent and transparent investigation, in addition to the probes being conducted by the central agencies, ED and CBI. Noted advocate Prashant Bhushan appeared for the petitioner. "The petitioner herein is filing the present Writ petition in the nature of a public interest litigation under article 32 of the Constitution of India seeking a writ of mandamus or any other appropriate writ/order/direction for a court-monitored investigation into the large-scale bank fraud perpetrated by M/S Reliance Communications Ltd. & others, and for ensuring that the investigation is not limited to the narrow scope of FIR no. RCBD1/2025/E/0005 & connected investigations by the enforcement directorate, but includes all grave offences revealed in various reports/documents available in the public domain," the PIL states. The petition further claimed that investigating agencies have overlooked a five-year delay by the lending bank in filing its FIR, a lapse that, according to the plea, points to possible involvement or negligence of bank officials. Despite a 2020 forensic audit report detailing the diversion of funds, evergreening of loans, fictitious transactions, and the use of shell companies, the bank took no statutory action until August 2025, the plea contends. The plea further argues that this unexplained delay suggests potential collusion or deliberate inaction by public servants, which should have been treated as a key aspect of the criminal conspiracy. "CBI and ED, however, have entirely failed to investigate this institutional angle, thereby excluding from scrutiny the very public officials whose complicity or willful inaction forms an essential part of the criminal conspiracy," the plea adds. Thus, the plea argues that it is necessary, expedient, and in the public interest that the Supreme Court issue directions for a court-monitored probe into the matter. (ANI)
Congress leader Manickam Tagore on Tuesday alleged discrimination against Tamil Nadu after the Centre reportedly rejected Metro Rail proposals for Coimbatore and Madurai. In a post on X, Tagore claimed that discrimination against Tamil Nadu seems to be ingrained in the DNA of the BJP-RSS. He further stated that the Central government is using the delay in the 2021 census as a tool to hinder development in the state. Tagore also described the explanation that Madurai and Coimbatore do not meet the "2-million population benchmark" based on the 2011 Census as misleading. He claimed that the postponement of the 2021 Census has resulted in Tamil Nadu cities not receiving adequate funding, development projects, and infrastructure. "The Union Government's rejection of Metro Rail proposals for Coimbatore and Madurai is outrageous and exposes, yet again, that discrimination against Tamil Nadu is embedded in the DNA of the BJP-RSS. The excuse given -- that these cities do not meet the "2-million population" benchmark as per the 2011 Census -- is not only absurd but also deliberately misleading. Why is India still using 2011 population data in 2025? Because Prime Minister Modi has delayed the 2021 Census indefinitely, making India the only major democracy in the world without updated population data for over 14 years. And who suffers because of this delay? Tamil Nadu. Our cities lose funding, development projects, and infrastructure because the Union Government refuses to update the numbers. Coimbatore and Madurai are among India's fastest-growing urban centres. Their current populations are far beyond the old 2011 figures. Yet Tamil Nadu is punished because the Modi government did not conduct the 2021 census -- and now uses that delay as a weapon to block development. This is not administration. This is targeted discrimination," wrote Tagore. Tagore emphasised that the people of Tamil Nadu will not accept second-class treatment and demanded the immediate approval of the Metro Rail projects for Coimbatore and Madurai. "We strongly condemn the Union Government's anti-Tamil Nadu approach. The people of Tamil Nadu will not accept second-class treatment. We demand immediate approval of Metro Rail projects for Coimbatore and Madurai using current realities, not outdated data manipulated for political bias," added Tagore. https://x.com/manickamtagore/status/1990826967390900421?s=20 Earlier, the Centre reportedly rejected proposals for Metro Rail projects in Coimbatore and Madurai, citing that both cities do not meet the required population threshold of 2 million, according to the 2011 census. According to the Ministry of Housing and Urban Affairs, the population of Coimbatore is 15.84 lakh and that of Madurai is 15 lakh, based on the 2011 census. Hence, the Metro Rail Policy of 2017 specifies that a city must have a population of at least 2 million to be eligible for planning a Metro Rail project. (ANI)
In a post on X, PMO said, "Governor of Haryana, Prof. Ashim Kumar Ghosh, met Prime Minister@narendramodiearlier today."

Earlier, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini met with Prime Minister Narendra Modi during PM Modi's visit to Delhi on November 10 and stated that he received PM Modi's guidance and blessings.

During their meeting, the Chief Minister discussed various public welfare schemes and development projects being implemented in the state.

In a post on X, Nayab Singh Saini said, "Today, I had the privilege of meeting the esteemed and successful Prime Minister Shri @NarendraModi ji in Delhi and received his guidance and blessings. On behalf of all family members of Haryana, a divine idol of Lord Shri Krishna, the Yogeshwar, was respectfully presented to him."

"During this time, there was a detailed discussion on the public welfare schemes and development projects being implemented in the state. With the mantra of the Honourable Prime Minister ji - "Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas" - the state of Haryana is continuously advancing towards progress and prosperity," wrote Saini.

Meanwhile, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini inaugurated 19 developmental projects worth Rs 84 crore during the Maharaja Shoor Saini Jayanti celebrations in Narnaul on Sunday.

In a post on X, Saini said, "Today, on the occasion of the birth anniversary of Maharaja Shoor Saini Ji in Narnaul, I greeted the esteemed family members present by participating in the state-level program organized for this purpose. Here, I inaugurated and foundation stone laying works of 19 projects costing approximately 84 crore for the progress and upliftment of the region." (ANI)
BJP National General Secretary Tarun Chugh took a jibe at the opposition, saying that the people of Bihar punished the "princes and princesses of the robber gang" by putting faith in Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and bringing the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) to power in Bihar. "There is a happy wave across the country. The people of Bihar have punished the princes and princesses of the robber gang, the pioneers of jungle raj, those who indulged in bullying and mafia activities. They have blessed the leadership of Chief Minister Nitish Kumar and PM Modi, who have won development and trust," he said. He further slammed Congress leader Rahul Gandhi, saying that nobody considers him a leader. "Neither his family, nor his party, nor the country considers Rahul Gandhi a leader..." he said. Speaking on the election of the legislative party leader, he said that the NDA's senior leaders will make an informed decision after thorough discussion. Meanwhile, the NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats. The alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, marking the second time the NDA crossed the 200-seat mark in state polls. In 2010, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) secured five seats, while the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat. The Bihar assembly elections were held in two phases on November 6 and 11. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13 per cent voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). (ANI)
The national capital woke up to a dense blanket of toxic smog on Wednesday morning, with the average Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 392 at 9 am in the "very poor" category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Air quality showed no improvement from Tuesday, when the AQI was recorded at 341 at 7 am and 374 at 4 pm. Several parts of the city remained shrouded in a thick layer of smog, reducing visibility and raising health concerns. At the Indira Gandhi International Airport (T3), the AQI was recorded at 342. As per CPCB classification, an AQI between 0-50 is considered 'good', 51-100 'satisfactory', 101-200 'moderate', 201-300 'poor', 301-400 'very poor', and 401-500 'severe'. As of 9 am, AQI levels in other major cities were: Ahmedabad 168, Bengaluru 76, Chennai 94, Jaipur 188, Hyderabad 121, Patna 130, Pune 185, Lucknow 166, and Mumbai 162, as per CPCB. Meanwhile, the Supreme Court on Monday asked the Delhi government to file an affidavit detailing the nature of the equipment and its efficiency in measuring the Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital. A bench of Chief Justice of India BR Gavai and Justices Vinod Chandran and NV Anjaria ordered, "Let GNCTD file an affidavit explaining the nature of equipment being used and their efficiency to gauge AQI monitors. Please bring it the day after tomorrow." Senior advocate and amicus curiae Aparajita Singh, who was assisting the bench on the issue, said that water sprinkling took place around pollution monitoring stations to skew the AQI readings in Delhi. She placed on record news reports about water sprinkling around pollution monitoring stations. Additional Solicitor General (ASG) Aishwarya Bhati, appearing for the Central government, stated that sprinkling of water is occurring across the city. "Political parties are spreading such videos," she said. Amicus further told the bench that instances of stubble burning were being undercounted. Giving a solution to the issue, she said that farmers should be given equipment for disposing it the stubble. The apex court also asked the Centre to devise a long-term solution to address the issue of air pollution. It directed the Chief Secretary of Punjab and Haryana to ensure that the directions to curb stubble burning issued by the CAQM in its report dated November 13 are implemented. Senior advocate Gopal Sankaranarayanan, appearing for one of the petitioners, submitted that air pollution had increased this year and stated that construction activities should be stopped in the national capital. The bench, however, was not satisfied with the advocate's suggestion and stated in its order, "The restriction to be imposed on activities in Delhi in a graded manner, taking into consideration AQI standards, has been finalised by experts in the field based on scientific data. We do not possess the expertise to deal with the same. We are, therefore, not inclined to act on the submission of Sankaranarayanan that all activities be stopped in Delhi. A large chunk of the population depends on the various activities for their livelihood in the capital." The bench has now listed the matter relating to air pollution for November 19. Meanwhile, in view of the deteriorating air quality in the national capital, the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) III was implemented on November 11 across Delhi by the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM). The measures aim to control emissions through stricter restrictions on construction, vehicular movement, and industrial operations. Under GRAP-III, curbs include a ban on most non-essential construction activities, restrictions on BS-III petrol and BS-IV diesel four-wheelers, suspension of classes for students up to Class 5 with a shift to hybrid or online learning, curbs on industrial operations dependent on non-clean fuel, and a ban on non-emergency diesel generator sets. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid tributes to Indira Gandhi, India's first female Prime Minister, on her 108th birth anniversary on Wednesday. "Tributes to former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on the occasion of her birth anniversary," PM Modi posted on X. https://x.com/narendramodi/status/1990963634080788645?s=20 Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was shot dead by two of her own bodyguards at her official residence at Akbar Road on October 31, 1984, which led to anti-Sikh riots in several parts of the country. Meanwhile, the Prime Minister also paid a tribute to 'warrior queen' Rani Lakshmibai on her 197th birth anniversary, hailing her bravery and valour during the war of independence. "A respectful tribute to Mother India's immortal warrior queen, Rani Lakshmibai, on her birth anniversary. The story of her bravery and valor in the first war of independence still fills the hearts of the countrymen with zeal and passion today," PM Modi wrote on X. Calling for everyone never to forget her sacrifice, PM Modi added, "A grateful nation can never forget her sacrifice and struggle for the protection of the pride of the motherland." Earlier today, Congress leaders, including Rahul Gandhi, party president Mallikarjun Kharge, Sonia Gandhi and others paid floral tributes to Indira Gandhi at Shakti Sthal, the memorial site of the former PM. She was the second-longest-serving Prime Minister after Nehru and was well-known for path-breaking economic and social reforms, including the nationalisation of banks. She also abolished the privy purses of the erstwhile princely states. Also known as the 'Iron Lady of India,' Indira Gandhi was actively involved in the freedom movements, including starting the 'Bal Charkha Sangh' and 'Vanar Sena' to support the Congress during the Civil disobedience movement and fight against the British forces. Hailed as one of the tallest world leaders, she was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence on Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter at the holy shrine. (ANI)
The leaders gathered at Delhi's Shakti Sthal and paid floral tributes to the former Prime Minister.

In a post on X, Congress highlighted that Prime Minister Indira Gandhi sacrificed everything for the country's unity and integrity.

"Leader of the Opposition Shri @RahulGandhi paid tribute to the country's first female Prime Minister, Smt. Indira Gandhi ji, on her birth anniversary. Indira Gandhi ji, who sacrificed everything for the unity and integrity of the country, is saluted a million times," wrote Congress.

https://x.com/INCIndia/status/1990986618816413839?s=20

Additionally, Congress Party President Mallikarjun Kharge paid tribute to the late Prime Minister Indira Gandhi. Sharing a video of Gandhi on X, Kharge praised her leadership and highlighted that her resolve and lifelong dedication to public service have left an indelible mark on India's journey of progress.

"The exemplary and the dynamic leadership of Smt. Indira Gandhi, showing immense political courage, shall forever remain an inspiration. Her unwavering resolve and lifelong dedication to public service left an indelible mark on India's journey of progress. Her ultimate sacrifice in safeguarding the unity and integrity of the nation deserves a million salutations. On her birth anniversary, we offer our respectful homage to her enduring legacy," wrote Kharge.

Born on November 19, 1917, to India's first Prime Minister, Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman Prime Minister of India from January 1966 to March 1977 and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984.

She was shot dead by two of her own bodyguards at her official residence at Akbar Road on October 31, 1984, which led to anti-Sikh riots in several parts of the country. (ANI)
China's top political advisor meets German Social Democratic Party delegation

Xinhua) 09:09, November 19, 2025

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, meets with a German Social Democratic Party (SPD) delegation led by Lars Klingbeil, co-chairman of the SPD, as well as German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance, in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, Nov. 18 (Xinhua) -- China's top political advisor Wang Huning on Tuesday met with a German Social Democratic Party (SPD) delegation led by Lars Klingbeil, co-chairman of the SPD, as well as German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance.

Wang, chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), said that a healthy and stable China-Germany relationship serves the interests of both countries and meets the expectations of all sectors in China and Europe.

China is willing to work with Germany to advance the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership to a higher level and promote the development of China-EU relations, Wang said, who added that the National Committee of the CPPCC is willing to make positive contributions toward this goal.

Klingbeil said that China is an important partner of Germany, and both countries bear significant responsibilities for the future of the world. The German side adheres to the one-China policy and is willing to work with the Chinese side to implement the important consensus reached by the leaders of the two countries and promote practical cooperation in various sectors.

The German SPD is willing to strengthen strategic dialogue with the Communist Party of China and enhance mutual understanding, he said.

Wang Huning, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee, meets with a German Social Democratic Party (SPD) delegation led by Lars Klingbeil, co-chairman of the SPD, as well as German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance, in Beijing, capital of China, Nov. 18, 2025. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

(Web editor: Huang Kechao, Liang Jun)
Democratic Sen. Elizabeth Warren called on the Trump administration to scrap its plans to sell the student loan portfolio to private companies, warning of the potential risks and consequences.

Warren also demanded that Education Secretary Linda McMahon and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent quit their reported talks of a potential sale. In a bicameral letter to the secretaries, the Democratic senator said that the sale would be a "giveaway to wealthy insiders at the expense of working-class borrowers and taxpayers."

Elizabeth Warren Warns of Selling Student Loan Portfolio to Private Companies

The letter added that the potential sale would threaten the loss of borrowers' legally guaranteed protections. Warren argued that the idea would most likely be illegal if the debt were sold at a loss for taxpayers.

The bicameral letter was signed by more than 40 Democratic lawmakers, and was led by Warren, independent Vermont Sen. Bernie Sanders, and Massachusetts Democratic Rep. Ayanna Pressley. It also argued that the sale would leave borrowers unprotected from predatory lenders and result in financial losses for taxpayers, according to ABC News.

Read more: Trump Administration Announces New Wave of Student Loan Forgiveness for Millions of Borrowers

These will, in turn, benefit private companies while only harming individual borrowers and their families. The letter said that, by tampering with the student loans of more than 40 million Americans, the Trump administration is threatening an "extra punch in the gut" to families.

Talks of potentially selling off the student loan portfolio to private companies were originally reported last month. On one hand, McMahon has not suggested that private companies would receive parts of the portfolio, but confirmed that she is looking to have the Treasury Department as a potential landing spot.

The Potential Consequences

The letter argued that because of a previous failed attempt by the current administration to sell the student loan portfolio, it now possesses information that suggests the sale of student loans would not be in the government's fiscal interest, The Hill reported.

The press secretary for higher education at the Education Department, Ellen Keast, answered questions about the reported plans. She said that they are currently evaluating ways to improve the fiscal health of the nearly $1.7 trillion student loan portfolio to "safeguard the interests of both students and taxpayers."

The idea of selling federal student loans to private investors would mark a major shift from how these loans have historically been managed by the government. It also brings to the surface the risk of the loans being sold for less than their full value, which means the government will be forced to cover the shortfall, as per Newsweek.
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Boora Narsaiah Goud on Wednesday criticised the recent death penalty given to former Bangladesh Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina for "crimes against humanity" by the country's International Crimes Tribunal, calling it "totally unwarranted and unjustifiable." "The sentence given to Sheikh Hasina, the former Prime Minister of Bangladesh, is totally unwarranted and unjustifiable," Goud told ANI. Further questioning the legitimacy of the interim government in Bangladesh, he alleged that the current administration has "no authority, a people's mandate, or jurisdiction." "Bangladesh is now headed by an unconstitutional government, a person who has no authority, a people's mandate, or jurisdiction," he added. He further questioned the violence and protests which toppled the Hasina-led regime, claiming that foreign agencies funded them, and soon the people of Bangladesh will "come to their senses." "It has no relevance either in justice or in international law. Whatever happened in Bangladesh was instigated and funded by foreign agencies... Sooner or later, Bangladeshi people will realise, and they will get into their senses," he said. On November 17, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal convicted the 78-year-old Bangladeshi and former prime minister of "crimes against humanity" linked to the July-August 2024 uprising. The tribunal found Hasina and two senior officials guilty of ordering or enabling atrocities during the protests. Local media reported that the tribunal delivered the verdict in absentia, as Hasina has been living in India since the fall of her government. Earlier, following the verdict, Hasina's son Sajeeb Wazed blamed the previous US government for spending "millions of dollars on regime change" in his country but said the "US attitude has definitely changed" under President Donald Trump. Wazed, who now lives in the US, while his mother is in exile in India, told ANI that the American approach today has changed "very distinctly" from what it was during last year's political unrest. He said, "President Trump himself announced at a press conference earlier this year that the previous administration, through USAID, spent millions of dollars on regime change in Bangladesh." Wazed also addressed questions about Hasina's extradition to Bangladesh, sought by the Yunus administration and said the "unelected, unconstitutional and illegal" Dhaka government did not follow the judicial process while sentencing her to death. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is all set to attend the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi on Wednesday. The area has been secured with barricades, and police officials have been deployed in the region to ensure safety and protocol ahead of the Prime Minister's visit. According to an official release by the PMO, the Prime Minister will visit the holy shrine and Mahasamadhi of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, to offer his obeisance and pay his respects to Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He will participate in the Centenary Celebrations of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. On this occasion, he will release a Commemorative Coin and a set of Stamps honouring the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He will also address the gathering during the programme. Thereafter, the Prime Minister will travel to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where he will inaugurate the South India Natural Farming Summit at around 1:30 PM, according to the release. During the programme, the Prime Minister will release the 21st instalment of PM-KISAN, amounting to more than Rs 18,000 crore to support nine crore farmers across the country. PM will also address the gathering on the occasion. The South India Natural Farming Summit, taking place from November 19th to 21st, is being organised by the Tamil Nadu Natural Farming Stakeholders Forum. The Summit aims to promote sustainable, eco-friendly, and chemical-free agricultural practices, and to accelerate the shift towards natural and regenerative farming as a viable, climate-smart and economically sustainable model for India's agricultural future, the release stated. The Summit will also focus on creating market linkages for farmer-producer organisations and rural entrepreneurs, while showcasing innovations in organic inputs, agro-processing, eco-friendly packaging, and indigenous technologies. The programme will witness participation from over 50,000 farmers, natural farming practitioners, scientists, organic input suppliers, sellers, and stakeholders from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. (ANI)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday visited the holy shrine and 'Mahasamadhi' of Sri Sathya Sai Baba in Puttaparthi, Andhra Pradesh, and offered his obeisance and paid respects. Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu and Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan were also present with him. Before that, PM Modi held a roadshow while on his way to Puttaparthi to attend the birth centenary celebrations of Sri Sathya Sai Baba. People in large numbers lined the streets to welcome PM Modi. The area has been secured with barricades, and police have been deployed to ensure safety and protocol during the Prime Minister's visit. According to an official release by the PMO, PM Modi will participate in the Centenary Celebrations of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. On this occasion, he will release a Commemorative Coin and a set of Stamps honouring the life, teachings, and enduring legacy of Bhagwan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. He will also address the gathering during the programme. Thereafter, the Prime Minister will travel to Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu, where he will inaugurate the South India Natural Farming Summit at around 1:30 PM, according to the release. During the programme, the Prime Minister will release the 21st instalment of PM-KISAN, amounting to more than Rs 18,000 crore to support nine crore farmers across the country. PM will also address the gathering on the occasion. The South India Natural Farming Summit, taking place from November 19th to 21st, is being organised by the Tamil Nadu Natural Farming Stakeholders Forum. The Summit aims to promote sustainable, eco-friendly, and chemical-free agricultural practices, and to accelerate the shift towards natural and regenerative farming as a viable, climate-smart and economically sustainable model for India's agricultural future, the release stated. The Summit will focus on creating market linkages for farmer-producer organisations and rural entrepreneurs, while showcasing innovations in organic inputs, agro-processing, eco-friendly packaging, and indigenous technologies. Over 50,000 farmers, natural farming practitioners, scientists, organic input suppliers, sellers, and stakeholders from Tamil Nadu, Puducherry, Kerala, Telangana, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh will participate in the summit. (ANI)
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday took a swipe at US President Donald Trump after he claimed that he had stopped eight wars, including one between India and Pakistan. Resharing ANI Digital's X post, which includes an ANI article on Trump's remarks, the Congress leader said that the former President had "reminded the world again" of a claim he has repeated on multiple occasions. https://x.com/Jairam_Ramesh/status/1990982278290551146 "Just when it appeared that the claims had stopped, President Trump has reminded the world again. At a meeting with the Saudi Crown Prince in Washington yesterday, President Trump has reiterated his claim that he had intervened to ensure Operation Sindoor was halted," Ramesh X post read. The Congress leader further pointed out that Trump has made the same claim at various global forums. "Of course, he has said this earlier in Saudi Arabia itself as well as in Qatar, Egypt, UK, Netherlands, and Japan apart from in many other press interactions," Ramesh wrote, adding sarcastically, "The tally is now 60." Meanwhile, Donald Trump reiterated his claim that he stopped eight wars during his presidency, including one between India and Pakistan. The remarks came during a bilateral meeting in the Oval Office with Saudi Arabia's Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. "We've done a lot of good with this office. I've stopped eight wars. I've actually stopped eight wars. I have another one to go with Putin. I'm a little surprised at Putin. It's taken longer than I thought. But we stopped India and Pakistan. I could go through the list. I'm very proud. I stopped one that was almost ready to start again. So it all took place right here in the Oval Office, whether by telephone or whether they came in. Many of these leaders have come in and signed their peace deals in the Oval Office," Trump told reporters at the Oval Office. President Donald Trump has consistently claimed that he used trade tariffs to stop a potential large-scale war between India and Pakistan, stating that his intervention "settled" the conflict within 24 hours, a claim denied by India. The US President was referring to the border clashes between India and Pakistan that followed India's precision strikes in May this year on Pakistani terror camps under Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir that claimed 26 lives. (ANI)
Punjab Minister Harpal Singh Cheema has described the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur as an extremely significant day. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity to celebrate this occasion. Speaking to the media on Tuesday, the Punjab Minister discussed plans for the celebration of the Guru Tegh Bahadur Martyrdom anniversary, stating that the Kirtan for the 350th anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur's martyrdom began from Srinagar. All the cabinet ministers of Punjab, including Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and the party's National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, have also arrived to celebrate the festival. Additionally, the Punjab Goverment will conduct its Legislative Assembly session at Anandpur Sahib. "Today, the kirtan for the 350th martyrdom anniversary of Guru Tegh Bahadur began in Srinagar. Tomorrow, the Nagar Kirtan will begin here in the morning. Punjab's CM Bhagwant Mann, the party's National Convener Arvind Kejriwal, and our entire cabinet have all arrived here... A three-day gathering will take place here. On the 23rd, 24th, and 25th, the Akhand Path Sahib will be recited... In between, we have decided to hold the Punjab Legislative Assembly session on the sacred land of Anandpur Sahib... I believe this is a very important day, and our government has been given the opportunity to celebrate it...," Cheema told reporters. Meanwhile, Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and AAP national convener Arvind Kejriwal attended a "Kirtan Darbar" at Gurdwara Chatti Patshahi in Srinagar, Jammu and Kashmir. Ministers of the Punjab Cabinet also participated in this Kirtan. During the event, Kejriwal told reporters that the Punjab Govt is organising functions at Anandpur Sahib on the occasion of the 350th martyrdom day of Guru Tegh Bahadar. "I invite people everywhere in the world." "More and more people should be a part of this and honour his supreme martyrdom. I consider myself really fortunate to have had the opportunity to come to such a holy place. To initiate the Yatra that begins for Anandpur Sahib tomorrow (Wednesday), I am here with Mann sahab. I received the opportunity to be a part of it. I consider myself highly fortunate...," he said. Guru Tegh Bahadur, born in Amritsar in 1621 to Guru Hargobind and Mata Nanki, is remembered for his profound spiritual teachings and ultimate sacrifice. He laid down his life to uphold the principles of religious freedom and human dignity. (ANI)
Security was tightened at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on Wednesday as gangster Anmol Bishnoi is set to be extradited from the United States and brought to India. Police personnel, accompanied by the Dog Squad, conducted extensive checking of vehicles and premises at Terminal 3, ensuring multiple layers of security ahead of Bishnoi's arrival. Anmol Bishnoi is the younger brother of notorious gangster Lawrence Bishnoi and is wanted in the murder of NCP leader Baba Siddique in October last year. Meanwhile, Anmol Bishnoi's cousin, Ramesh Bishnoi, has urged the Central government to ensure the safety of the latter, who will soon reach India after being extradited from the United States. Speaking to ANI, Ramesh Bishnoi claimed that Anmol is only being punished for being the brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi. He also expressed faith in the investigative agencies, saying that the family's main priority is to ensure the safety of their relative. "The law will take its course. Our family respects the law and we are law-abiding people, but today our main concern is that if he (Anmol Bishnoi) is being brought to India, the Indian government should ensure his safety. This will be our demand," Bishnoi told ANI. Claiming that the truth will be revealed and Anmol Bishnoi will be proven innocent, he added, "We have always respected the law and will continue to do so... He (Anmol Bishnoi) is being punished only for being Lawrence Bishnoi's younger brother. The investigation will reveal everything." Earlier, it was reported that Anmol Bishnoi, wanted in the murder case of NCP leader Baba Siddique, and brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, has been "removed from the United States by the federal government." Earlier, Baba Siddique's son Zeeshan Siddique said that he received an email stating that the federal government had removed Anmol Bishnoi from the United States as of November 18. "My family has registered as a victim family in the United States. From the victim notification, we get updates about Anmol Bishnoi. Today, we've got a mail that the federal government has removed Anmol Bishnoi from the United States as of November 18. The question arises whether he is being deported to India? My strong request to the central government is to bring him back if he's removed from America, and for the state government as well, to bring him back to Mumbai and to make sure that he's interrogated and arrested," Zeeshan Siddique told ANI. Zeeshan Siddique said that they are still awaiting justice and the full conspiracy behind his father's murder should come out. Baba Siddique, former Maharashtra minister and NCP leader, was shot down in Bandra in October last year. Zeeshan Siddique received mail from the US Department of Homeland Security Victim Information Notification Exchange (DHS-VINE) that Anmol Bishnoi has been "removed from the United States by the federal government". (ANI)
A meeting of the Public Accounts Committee of Parliament (PAC) will be held at noon in the Parliament premises on Wednesday. The agenda of the meeting will focus on a briefing followed by oral evidence of the Representative of the Minister of Finance, Department of Revenue(CBDT) on "Non-Compliance in timely submission of action taken notes on non-selected audit paragraphs and excess expenditure". Congress MP KC Venugopal is the Chairman of the Committee. Earlier, the Parliamentary Standing Committee on External Affairs held discussions on India's technological diplomacy with the country slated to host the AI Summit next year. Congress leader Shashi Tharoor, the committee's chairman, said after the meeting that the committee has taken up technological diplomacy, including outer space and artificial intelligence. "This year, we have taken up the topic of technological diplomacy, including areas like outer space, artificial intelligence, and various areas in which our diplomacy is venturing into the field of technology. Today was the first briefing by the Secretary dealing with this issue in the MEA," Tharoor told ANI. Tharoor also emphasised that they will hold more sessions on this topic, as they want to consult other ministries and experts on the matter. "We will have many more sessions because we want to hear from other ministries and experts. Our technological diplomacy is very significant. There is also an AI Summit that our Prime Minister will be chairing in February next year. In the lead-up to that, this issue will need further discussion. It was a preliminary briefing, which we found very useful," he said. (ANI)
The NDA legislature party meeting is underway in Patna, Bihar, where Nitish Kumar is slated to be elected as the alliance leader.

Multiple leaders of the alliance expressed excitement about it being a "historic oath-taking" on November 20, with PM Modi and the Chief Ministers of various states attending.

"The leader of the BJP legislature party will be selected today. It will be a historic oath-taking ceremony tomorrow as PM Modi and CMs of all states will be attending it," BJP leader Prem Kumar told ANI.

Janata Dal (United) leader Shyam Rajak also highlighted that he is as excited as the people of Bihar about the government formation.

"When the people of Bihar are excited, then even we are also excited," he told reporters.

Nitish Kumar has already resigned as Chief Minister, and is likely to return as CM for the 10th time on November 20.

Earlier, the NDA registered a landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats.

In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats.

Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat. (ANI)
The government authorities on Wednesday carried out the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) in Gulshan Colony, a Muslim-dominated area of Kolkata. BLO Wasim Akram said that the form distribution process is almost complete in the block, with only 300 voters left to distribute forms to. "Distribution of forms is almost complete. The total number of voters in my block is 1,622. Distribution of forms to around 300 voters is pending. There are people who live here, but their vote is registered elsewhere. They came and collected the forms themselves. 5-6 per cent of people say that their names should have been on the voter list but aren't," he said. Highlighting the issues of the general public, he mentioned how several voters who were registered in 1995 were removed during the 2002 SIR. He further ensured that their documents were being checked to enrol their names in the voter list. "There are people whose votes were registered in 1995 but were removed in 2002 SIR. Such people are facing problems, and their documents are being checked. A lot of people here are from other constituencies and have yet to have their voter cards transferred. There are more than 50 per cent such people," he added. Moreover, Mohammad Anwar, a resident of Gulshan Colony, shared, "I have been living in Gulshan Colony since 2015. I got my voter card transferred here. I got it transferred here from Odisha. I don't remember when I got it done. I voted in the council elections here. I cannot remember when that was. My name was not registered here in 2002. I lived in Odisha and worked there. I did not have my house there. My daughter lived here. I bought a house here with my daughter when these buildings were being constructed. I am from Assam." Meanwhile, the SIR aims to update voter lists across West Bengal's 294 Assembly constituencies. Over 80,000 Booth Level Officials (BLOs) are conducting house-to-house visits until December 4 to verify and update voter information. To assist voters, 659 helpdesks have been set up across the state. The Election Commission of India launched the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across nine states and three Union Territories, covering nearly 51 crore electors. The states and UTs included in this phase are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. The Enumeration Period, which began on November 4, will continue until December 4, during which BLOs will distribute unique, partially pre-filled Enumeration Forms (EFs) to every elector. The BLOs will visit households at least three times for the distribution and collection of forms. Electors can also verify their names and details in the previous SIR electoral rolls on the and provide the necessary information in the EF. To facilitate the process, over 5.3 lakh BLOs, 7.64 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs), 10,448 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs)/Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), and 321 District Election Officers (DEOs) have been deployed. Electors can seek assistance from BLOs through the "Book-a-call with BLO" facility on the ECINet App or dial the toll-free helpline at 1950 with their STD code. The draft electoral rolls will be published on December 9, followed by a claims and objections period from December 9 to January 8, 2026. The final electoral rolls will be published on February 7, 2026. (ANI)
The governing council member of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple and the representative of the Central government, Karamana Jayan, on Wednesday, explained the ritual of Murajapam ahead of the celebrations to be held at the temple in Kerala's capital city of Thiruvananthapuram on November 20. "There is a legend surrounding Murajapam. It was initiated centuries ago by Anizham Thirunal Marthanda Varma and the Travancore royal family for the welfare and prosperity of the people and the kingdom," he said. "This ritual, which takes place once every six years, involves the sequential chanting of the Rigveda, Yajurveda, and Samaveda. After the days of chanting, the ritual culminates in Mura Siveveli," he added. He elaborated that the ceremonies will begin on November 20, after the Veda Mandapam is set up on Wednesday. The chanting will continue for seven days, followed by Mura Siverveli on the eighth day. "The ceremonies begin on November 20, with the Veda Mandapam being set up on November 19. The chanting continues for seven days, and on the eighth day, Mura Siveveli is performed. The deity will be taken out in procession on different vahanams (vehicles). Hundreds of Vedic scholars participate, staying here for 56 days and chanting at various levels," he stated. Karamana Jayan further added that the council will hold discussions with the police for the complete security arrangements and for the crowd management, as the council expects a much larger crowd this year. "We will hold discussions with the police on how to manage the large crowds. The last Murajapam was held in 2020, and we expect a much larger turnout this year," he said. Emphasising the vision of turning the celebration into the "Kumbh Mela of South India", he said, "By 2032, our hope is to transform this into a major Kumbh Mela of South India. The governing committee has already begun the groundwork for this vision." "In the future, we want the upcoming generations to see the Murajapam and Lakshadeepam of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple evolve into a grand Kumbh Mela. What you see around this temple was once the language and culture of the temple itself. The royal family, with great generosity, handed over many of these responsibilities to others," he added. He marked the key objectives to reclaim the temple's properties as many assets are in possession of people by unauthorised means and recovering them is one of the integral missions of the governing committee. (ANI)
Nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) Recognizes Trailblazers Who Strengthen Families, Homes, and Communities

CLEARWATER BEACH, Fla., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The National Disaster Resilience Conference (NDRC) today announced its 2025 Resilience Leadership Awards, recognizing individuals and organizations that champion disaster safety, resilience, and innovation. The NDRC and nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) honored the awardees during the conference luncheon in Clearwater Beach, Florida.

"These awardees exemplify the very best of leadership in disaster resilience," said FLASH President and CEO Leslie Chapman-Henderson. "Their tireless efforts and innovative approaches are helping families and communities prepare for and withstand disasters of all kinds. By advancing stronger building practices, fostering collaboration, and promoting resilience-focused solutions, they are shaping safer homes and more resilient neighborhoods across the nation."

Nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) Recognizes Trailblazers Who Strengthen Families, Homes and Communities Post this

The Dr. Ernst W. Kiesling Lifetime Achievement Award is given to individuals whose lifelong dedication makes a lasting, positive impact on the disaster safety and resilience movement. Award recipients reflect the achievements of Dr. Kiesling, who, through his leadership and research at Texas Tech Wind Science and Engineering, mentored generations of wind engineers and developed the life-saving tornado safe room.

2025 Recipients:

Max Mayfield, former Director of the National Hurricane Center (20002007) and WPLG-TV Hurricane Specialist, is renowned for his leadership during major storms, including Hurricanes Katrina and Wilma, and for advancing hurricane forecasting and public safety. A longtime meteorologist and public educator, he continues to share his expertise through media and community engagement. Mayfield also serves as a FLASH Leadership Partner, contributing his knowledge and guidance to promote disaster resilience and safer homes nationwide.



Steve Winistorfer serves as Vice President of Product Engineering & Quality at Huber Engineered Woods, where he drives innovation and ensures the highest standards in building materials. A recognized leader in construction resilience and the design and application of engineered wood products, Winistorfer contributes to safer, stronger homes through engineering excellence and industry best practices. Steve has more than 40 years of experience in the certification, inspection, testing, quality, marketing, and design of engineered wood products in North and South America, Europe, and Japan. He serves as a member of the American Wood Council's Wood Design Standards Committee and Subcommittee on Structural Design, serves on various ASTM and ICC standards committees, and, for 20 years, was a member of the US delegation of World Trade Organization (WTO) tri-lateral forest products trade meetings with Japan and Canada. Steve is the author or co-author of more than 25 papers on wood engineering and wood products, and is a Registered Professional Engineer, holding registrations in seven states. He also serves on the FLASH Board of Directors, lending his expertise to advance disaster resilience initiatives and promote durable, sustainable building solutions nationwide.

The Board Member of the Year Award is given to an outstanding individual who serves on the FLASH Board of Directors with distinction.

2025 Recipient:

Kevin Kuntz, PE, CFPS, MIFireE, Vice President and ISO Chief Engineer at Verisk, is this year's recipient. He oversees property risk analysis and engineering strategies that advance resilient building practices. A recognized expert in fire protection, disaster mitigation, and property safety, as well as a longtime volunteer firefighter, Kuntz applies his technical expertise to strengthen homes and communities.

The Innovation Award recognizes individuals, organizations, or companies that have developed groundbreaking solutions, technologies, or practices that significantly enhance disaster safety and community resilience. Recipients of this award demonstrate leadership in advancing innovative approaches to building design, construction materials, preparedness strategies, or risk mitigation programs that protect homes, businesses, and communities from natural hazards. By promoting forward-thinking solutions, the award highlights contributions that not only improve structural performance and occupant safety during disasters but also foster long-term sustainability and resilience in the built environment.

2025 Recipients:

KB Home - Dixon Trail: Pioneering Wildfire Resilience - In recognition of innovative community design, forward-thinking planning, construction practices, and commitment to Wildfire Prepared Home, a new standard for resilience excellence.



Insurance Institute for Business and Home Safety (IBHS) - Dixon Trail: Pioneering Wildfire Resilience - In recognition of innovative research, engineering, and science that established Wildfire Prepared Home, a new standard for resilience excellence.



California Building Industry Association (CBIA) - Dixon Trail: Pioneering Wildfire Resilience - In recognition of innovative community design, forward-thinking planning, construction practices, and commitment to Wildfire Prepared Home, a new standard for resilience excellence.



Kitson & Partners - Babcock Ranch: Leading Resilience by Example - In recognition of visionary planning and innovative development that sets a new standard for resilient and sustainable communities, demonstrating how thoughtful construction practices create lasting value.

For more information, visit the National Disaster Resilience Conference website.

About FLASH

The nonprofit Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH) is the country's leading consumer advocate for strengthening homes and safeguarding families from disasters. The FLASH partnership includes more than 100 innovative and diverse organizations that share a vision of making America a more disaster-resilient nation, including FEMA, Florida Division of Emergency Management, Huber Engineered Woods, International Code Council, ISO - Verisk Analytics, MyRadar, National Weather Service, Renew Financial, Simpson Strong-Tie, State Farm, Travelers, and USAA. In 2008, FLASH and Disney opened the interactive weather experience StormStruck: A Tale of Two Homes in Lake Buena Vista, FL. FLASH's signature program No Code. No Confidence. - Inspect2Protect.org provides consumers with a one-of-a-kind building code transparency tool to easily identify their community's building code. Learn more about FLASH and access free consumer resources by visiting www.flash.org and www.Inspect2Protect.org, calling toll-free (877) 221- SAFE (7233), following @federalalliance on X, and Facebook.com/federalalliance.

SOURCE Federal Alliance for Safe Homes (FLASH)
Kerala Chief Electoral Officer, Ratan U. Kelkar, extended his congratulations to all Booth Level Officers (BLOs) in the state for their excellent and exemplary work during the ongoing SIR. According to a release from the CEO's office, Kelkar stated that the field-level efforts of the BLOs are crucial in maintaining the accuracy and reliability of the state's electoral roll. Kelkar specifically highlighted the tireless efforts of the BLOs. He particularly commended their efforts to identify and report Untraceable Forms, those forms for which the voter's presence or residence could not be verified by the BLOs. The categories in this 'Untraceable' section include: shifted, deceased, duplicates, etc. According to the release, the total number of forms in this category currently stands at 51,085. This accounts for 0.18 per cent of the total voters being re-verified. The CEO clarified that this is not the exact figure and that the actual number could be higher, as not all BLOs have digitised all the data yet. To ensure maximum accuracy and transparency on this matter and to prevent future complaints, the Chief Electoral Officer instructed all BLOs to urgently organise meetings with the Booth Level Agents nominated by recognised political parties. Kerala CEO Kelkar requested all political parties to actively participate in these important meetings. He added that everyone's cooperation is essential to uphold the democratic process by ensuring an accurate electoral roll. The Election Commission of India launched the second phase of the Special Intensive Revision of electoral rolls across nine states and three Union Territories, covering nearly 51 crore electors. The states and UTs included in this phase are Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, and Puducherry. The Enumeration Period, which began on November 4, will continue until December 4, during which BLOs will distribute unique, partially pre-filled Enumeration Forms (EFs) to every elector. The BLOs will visit households at least three times for the distribution and collection of forms. To facilitate the process, over 5.3 lakh BLOs, 7.64 lakh Booth Level Agents (BLAs), 10,448 Electoral Registration Officers (EROs)/Assistant Electoral Registration Officers (AEROs), and 321 District Election Officers (DEOs) have been deployed. Electors can seek assistance from BLOs through the "Book-a-call with BLO" facility on the ECINet App or dial the toll-free helpline at 1950 with their STD code. The draft electoral rolls will be published on December 9, followed by a claims and objections period from December 9 to January 8, 2026. The final electoral rolls will be published on February 7, 2026. (ANI)
The diverted flights included a Turkish Airlines flight originating in Istanbul and a SriLankan Airlines flight from Dammam, Saudi Arabia. The Turkish Airlines flight was carrying 258 passengers and 10 crew members, while SriLankan Airlines aircraft had 188 passengers, including eight crew members, according to officials at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL).

Both flights were destined for Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. Following a delay of approximately one hour in the capital city of Kerala, the weather improved, allowing both aircraft to depart and continue their journey to Colombo.

This incident marked another instance where TRV has provided crucial support to international air traffic. Last month, a Saudi Arabian flight from Jakarta to Medina was diverted to Thiruvananthapuram due to a medical emergency on board.

An Indonesian passenger fell unconscious, necessitating the unscheduled landing. The passenger was safely transferred to Ananthapuri Hospital for immediate medical attention.

The recent diversions underscore the importance of robust contingency planning at international airports. Earlier this year, on June 16, a different kind of emergency was handled efficiently at Lucknow Airport when a flight reported smoke and sparks from the wheels upon landing.

The Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting (ARFF) team at Lucknow responded swiftly, containing the incident within 20 minutes and preventing any damage or injuries, officials noted. The passengers were safely disembarked, and airport operations remained unaffected.

Both the Middle Eastern flights later departed from Thiruvananthapuram for Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo when weather conditions improved, officials at the airport said. (ANI)
AIMIM Chief and Hyderabad MP Asaduddin Owaisi on Wednesday strongly criticised the "undated video" of Delhi Blast accused Dr Umar Un Nabi, where he justified suicide bombings as "martyrdom" and described the concept as "misunderstood". In a post on X, Owaisi stressed that suicide is "haram" (Prohibited) in Islam and killing of innocents is a grave sin. "There is an undated video of Delhi blasts accused Umar Nabi justifying suicide bombing as "martyrdom," and that it's "misunderstood." Suicide is haram in Islam and the killing of innocents is a grave sin. Such acts are also against the law of the land. They are not "misunderstood" in any way. This is terrorism and nothing else," the AIMIM Chief said. Further, Asaduddin Owaisi demanded accountability from the Union Home Minister Amit Shah's earlier assurance to Parliament that no local Kashmiri had joined terror groups in the past six months. "During Operation Sindoor and Mahadev Amit Shah had assured Parliament that no local Kashmiri had joined terror groups in the last six months. Where did this group come from then? Who is accountable for the failure to detect this group?" Owaisi asked. In Umar's "undated" viral video, he was seen defending suicide bombing as "martyrdom" and that it's "misunderstood". The suicide bombing left 15 dead and over two dozen injured when the blast occurred in a moving Hyundai i20 car near the iconic Red Fort at around 7 pm on November 10. A special NIA court at Patiala House Court in the national capital on Tuesday remanded Jasir Bilal Wani alias Danish to 10 days National Investigation Agency (NIA) custody in the probe in connection with the November 10 blast in the city. NIA, in a press release, said that investigations have revealed that Jasir had allegedly provided technical support for carrying out terror attacks by modifying drones and attempting to make rockets ahead of the deadly car bomb blast. The accused, a resident of Qazigund in Anantnag district of J&K, was an active co-conspirator behind the attack and had worked closely with the terrorist, Umar un Nabi, to plan the terror carnage, the NIA said. (ANI)
The Association said the fabricated document, dated November 5, was crafted to deceitfully invoke its authority and mislead the public.

In a formal resolution, the DJSA described the act as a calculated and malicious effort aimed at damaging the reputation of the Delhi Judiciary.

It stated that the anonymous perpetrator sought to give baseless and defamatory claims the sheen of institutional legitimacy by wrongfully using the Association's name.

The Association warned that such misinformation, mainly when directed toward trial courts handling sensitive matters, poses a grave risk to the independence of the judiciary. It cautioned that these attempts undermine public trust, misguide litigants, and interfere with the justice-delivery process.

Emphasising that judicial independence is the cornerstone of the rule of law, the DJSA stated that any attempt to dilute or compromise it "cannot be tolerated."

The Association has initiated steps to identify those behind the forged communication and has resolved to pursue appropriate legal action to ensure accountability. The resolution was issued on behalf of the Association and signed by Joint Secretary Neetu Nagar. (ANI)
Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leader Syed Shahnawaz Hussain on Wednesday took a swipe at the Mahagathbandhan in Bihar, claiming that ahead of the government formation of the state, people have shown their happiness and are relaxed to see jungle raj part 2 not coming back. Claiming that while the BJP's political opponents have "no option" and that is why they have blamed EVMs and the Special Intensive Revision (SIR) for their loss, the NDA, in turn, is simply congratulating people for giving them the mandate. "The NDA government has been formed in Bihar. With the blessings of PM Modi, under the leadership of Nitish Kumar, we fought a great election. And now, before the NDA, there will be a meeting of the BJP legislative party... And then there will be an NDA meeting. The leader will be elected in that. The NDA government is going to be formed in Bihar," Hussain told ANI here. Talking about the mood of the public, he added, "People are very happy; most of the people are happy because people are relaxed that Jungle Raj Part 2 has not come, and our opponents have no option. They are blaming EVMs, SIR, and we are thanking the public." The NDA's legislative party leader is expected to be Nitish Kumar, who resigned as Chief Minister of Bihar earlier, and is set to take oath tomorrow for the 10th time. Multiple leaders of the alliance expressed excitement about it being a "historic oath-taking" on November 20, with PM Modi and the Chief Ministers of various states attending. Earlier, the NDA registered a landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat. (ANI)
JDU MP Sanjay Jha and Union Minister Rajeev Ranjan Singh congratulated Nitish Kumar after the meeting.

Bharatiya Janata Party leader Samrat Choudhary was elected as the leader of the BJP legislature party in Bihar, while Vijay Sinha was elected as the deputy leader.

After this, Nitish Kumar is slated to be elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance in Bihar, followed by the swearing-in ceremony on November 20.

Meanwhile, multiple leaders of the alliance expressed excitement about it being a "historic oath-taking" on November 20, with PM Modi and the Chief Ministers of various states attending.

"The leader of the BJP legislature party will be selected today. It will be a historic oath-taking ceremony tomorrow as PM Modi and CMs of all states will be attending it," BJP leader Prem Kumar told ANI.

The NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats.

The alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, marking the second time the NDA crossed the 200-seat mark in state polls. In 2010, it had won 206 seats.

In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats.

Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat.

All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) secured five seats, while the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat.

The Bihar assembly elections were held in two phases on November 6 and 11. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13 per cent voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). (ANI)
Indian Society of Aerospace Medicine (ISAM) is organising its 64th annual conference at the Institute of Aerospace Medicine (IAM), Bengaluru, on November 20-21. According to the Ministry of Defence, the conference will be inaugurated by Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, Chief of the Air Staff, on November 20. The conference will host approximately 300 delegates from across the country and abroad. Participants also include researchers from associated institutions, including prominent scientists from DRDO labs and ISRO. Key highlights will include the Air Marshal Subroto Mukherjee Memorial Oration, to be delivered by Mr Anchit Gupta, an avid historian, and the Air Vice Marshal M. M. Srinagesh Memorial Oration, to be delivered by Air Vice Marshal Deepak Gaur (Retd). Another significant aspect of the conference is the 'Jemi Hormusji Framji Manekshaw Panel', featuring guest lectures by notable experts, including Awais Ahmed, CEO and Founder of Pixxel Aerospace Technologies, and Captain Dhruv Rebbapragada, Chief Flight Safety Officer at IndiGo Airlines. The Ministry of Defence said that the current edition of the conference is themed 'Innovations in Aerospace Medicine: Infinite Possibilities', which highlights the innovative approaches of aerospace medicine practitioners in balancing the safety and optimal performance requirements of aviators. The Ministry also mentioned that, with over 100 scientific papers to be presented at the conference, delegates can look forward to an agenda filled with scientific discussions, presentations, and networking opportunities that aim to shape the future of aerospace medicine research and policy in the country. Established in 1952, ISAM is the only registered society dedicated to promoting the knowledge and practice of aerospace medicine in India. The unique and premier institute deals with military and civil aerospace medicine, including the human aspects of the country's spaceflight programme. With the aim of advancing research, fostering knowledge exchange, and seeking solutions to aeromedical challenges, the ISAM has been conducting its annual scientific conference since 1954. (ANI)
JD(U) leader Rajeev Ranjan Prasad on Wednesday emphasised that Bihar will once again get a strong NDA leadership after the oath-taking ceremony, scheduled to be held on November 20. "The oath ceremony may take place tomorrow, and the state will once again get a strong NDA government. Meetings are ongoing, and the remaining matters will be sorted out by the evening and briefed accordingly," Rajeev Prasad said. Meanwhile, Nitish Kumar was unanimously elected as the leader of the Janata Dal (United) legislature party in the meeting held at his residence in Patna on Wednesday. JDU MP Sanjay Jha and Union Minister Rajeev Ranjan Singh congratulated Nitish Kumar after the meeting. Bharatiya Janata Party leader Samrat Choudhary was elected as the leader of the BJP legislature party in Bihar, while Vijay Sinha was elected as the deputy leader. After this, Nitish Kumar is slated to be elected as the leader of the National Democratic Alliance in Bihar, followed by the swearing-in ceremony on November 20. Moreover, Rajeev Ranjan Prasad responded to Rohini Acharya's statement, saying, "There are contradictions among the family members. Rohini has raised questions about Tejashwi Yadav's leadership, while Tej Pratap is congratulating the NDA." "Those who blame the EVM instead of engaging in self-introspection will not be brought back by the public for a very long time. In the future, their problems will only increase further," he added. Meanwhile, the NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar elections, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan could only secure 35 seats. The alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, marking the second time the NDA crossed the 200-seat mark in state polls. In 2010, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat. (ANI)
The Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, HPCC President Pratibha Singh, Cabinet ministers Anirudh Singh, Dhaniram Shandil, Rohit Thakur and several other Congress leaders paid floral tributes to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her birth anniversary at the historic Ridge on Wednesday. They remembered her contribution to India's unity, courage and global stature. Speaking to the media after the tribute ceremony, Chief Minister Sukhu said that we all should remember her contribution. "Today is the birth anniversary of Indira Gandhi ji. We are offering our heartfelt tributes to her. Because of her courage and determination, she became the first woman Prime Minister of the country," he said. The Chief Minister highlighted Gandhi's role in safeguarding India's territorial and national integrity. "For the unity and integrity of the nation, she sacrificed her life. The Bangladesh that exists today was the result of her vision. She believed that India, surrounded by enemies on several sides, must be freed from those challenges, and she created a new nation in the form of Bangladesh. Only Indira Gandhi could have achieved this; she alone had such courage," he added. Sukhu added that her ideals continue to guide Congress workers, "We must walk on the path she showed us. She remains a source of inspiration for all members of the Congress Party," he said. Remembering her immense contribution to nation-building, the Chief Minister said that Indira Gandhi's visionary decisions laid a strong foundation for India's progress. "Her leadership in poverty alleviation, economic reforms, nationalisation of banks, boosting agricultural productivity, employment generation and social empowerment was unparalleled," he added. He said that she made the supreme sacrifice to safeguard the unity and integrity of the nation. Responding to Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur's criticism that the government was planning a celebration despite the state being under disaster conditions, Chief Minister Sukhu clarified that the upcoming programme marking the completion of three years of the Congress government was specifically meant for disaster-affected families. "This programme is being organised for the disaster victims, and more assistance will be provided to them. Whenever a disaster occurs, it is the duty of the government to provide relief to those affected, and we are doing exactly that," he said. The Chief Minister reiterated that the state government remained committed to rehabilitation and relief efforts following recent calamities. Health and Family Welfare Minister Dr. (Col.) Dhani Ram Shandil, Panchayati Raj Minister Anirudh Singh, HPCC President Pratibha Singh, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania, MLA Sanjay Rattan, Harish Janartha, Ranjeet Singh Rana and Malender Rajan, Principal Media Advisor to the Chief Minister Naresh Chauhan, HIMUDA Vice Chairman Yashwant Chajta, Mayor Surendra Chauhan, Deputy Mayor Uma Kaushal, Councillors, Deputy Commissioner Anupam Kashyap, SP Sanjeev Gandhi and other dignitaries were present on the occasion. (ANI)
On the occasion of former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi's 108th birth anniversary, Congress MP Priyanka Gandhi Vadra on Wednesday remembered her grandmother, crediting her with making India a nuclear power. "Patriotism, compassion, strength, courage, dedication, and sacrifice - a steely personality forged from all these sentiments, which made the world acknowledge India's might. Made the country a nuclear power. Strengthened the infrastructure to fortify India's foundation," Gandhi posted on X. "Grandma, you are my ideal, and in the form of the values you imparted, you are always with me," she added. Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, along with Congress leaders, paid floral tributes to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi at Central Hall in the Parliament on her 108th birth anniversary on Wednesday. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge, Congress Parliamentary Party chairperson Sonia Gandhi, and Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi were among those who paid tribute to the former PM. Among those in attendance were Parliamentary Affairs Minister Kiren Rijiju, Congress general secretary KC Venugopal, and Rajya Sabha MP and BCCI Vice-President Rajeev Shukla. Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge on Wednesday paid homage to former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi on her 108th birth anniversary, remembering her exemplary leadership, unwavering resolve, and lifelong dedication to public service, which left an indelible mark on India's journey. "The exemplary and the dynamic leadership of Smt. Indira Gandhi, showing immense political courage, shall forever remain an inspiration. Her unwavering resolve and lifelong dedication to public service left an indelible mark on India's journey of progress," Kharge posted on X, along with snippets of the former PM's speeches. Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tributes to Indira Gandhi. "Tributes to former PM Smt. Indira Gandhi Ji on the occasion of her birth anniversary," he posted on X. Born on November 19, 1917, to Pandit Jawaharlal Nehru, India's first Prime Minister, and Kamala Nehru, Indira Gandhi served as the first and only woman prime minister from January 1966 to March 1977, and again from January 1980 until her assassination in October 1984. She was the second-longest-serving Prime Minister after Nehru and was well-known for path-breaking economic and social reforms, including the nationalisation of banks. She also abolished the privy purses of the erstwhile princely states. Indira Gandhi, who was hailed as one of the tallest world leaders, was assassinated by her own Sikh bodyguards at her residence on Akbar Road on October 31, 1984. This came after Operation Bluestar was executed at Amritsar's Golden Temple, wherein Gandhi ordered the Indian Army to confront Sikh separatists who had taken shelter at the holy shrine. Also known as the 'Iron Lady of India,' Indira Gandhi was actively involved in the freedom movement, including founding the 'Bal Charkha Sangh' and 'Vanar Sena' to support the Congress during the Civil Disobedience movement and to fight the British forces. (ANI)
The strategic partnership will unlock institutional-grade support for BitcoinFi applications, backed by the trusted security of Anchorage Digital and its institutional-grade self-custody wallet Porto.

NEW YORK, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Mezo, the bank-free Bitcoin finance platform built by Thesis*, a Bitcoin Venture Studio founded in 2014, today announced its strategic collaboration with Anchorage Digital. Mezo will offer low-cost borrowing via Mezo's MUSD stablecoin and passive BTC yield opportunities through veBTC, the veNFT users will receive for locking their Bitcoin on Mezo. The partnership will unlock opportunities for Bitcoindigital asset treasury (DATs) companies and publicly traded companies to use Mezo's Bitcoin finance (BitcoinFi) platform.

A Major Institutional Partnership: Anchorage Digital and Mezo Set a New Standard for Bitcoin Finance

Anchorage Digital will offer an institutional-grade path for asset holders to participate in Mezo.

Borrowing: Asset holders can borrow against their BTC using Mezo's MUSD stablecoin at a low cost, starting at a 1% fixed rate. Borrowing is offered through Anchorage Digital's institutional-grade self-custody wallet , Porto.

Asset holders can borrow against their BTC using Mezo's MUSD at a low cost, starting at a 1% fixed rate. Borrowing is offered through Anchorage Digital's institutional-grade self-custody , Porto. Locking and rewards via veBTC: Clients will be able to lock their BTC on Mezo to collect rewards. The locking and earning mechanism is enabled via veBTC, which generates returns on Bitcoin holdings for Anchorage Digital's institutional clients through transparent, on-chain network fee sharing. Users will also benefit from the short lock period of 6 to 30 days, which provides the option of capitalizing on short or long-term investment strategies. To reward users for their commitment, the Mezo protocol will grant BTC depositors higher rewards for longer lock times; in the near turn, allowing them to leverage governance rights to influence fee structures and protocol economics.

Borrowing on Mezo and accessing liquidity through MUSD is now live on Porto. Locking BTC and collecting rewards via veBTC will be available soon through Porto and the Anchorage Digital platform.

Matt Luongo, CEO of Thesis* and Co-founder of Mezo, commented on today's news: "After 16 years, and despite massive institutional interest and growth of the asset, Bitcoin holders still struggle to access and leverage their wealth. Today, Mezo is realizing Hal Finney's vision for a Bitcoin banking experience that issues its own digital currency backed by Bitcoin, acting as banks did before they became nationalized. This partnership will create opportunities for holders to borrow, earn yield, and lend their assets, backed by the institutional trust and secure infrastructure Anchorage Digital has built over nearly a decade. We are excited to work alongside the Anchorage Digital team, and continue pioneering new ways for Bitcoin holders to leverage their wealth."Nathan McCauley, Co-Founder and CEO of Anchorage Digital added, "The Bitcoin market remains largely untapped in institutional portfolios, with most holdings dormant and generating no returns. We're proud to work with innovative protocols like Mezo that are changing this dynamic and revolutionizing BTC's potential as an asset class. Access to BTC rewards through institutional-grade, secure infrastructure represents a new model for what finance of the future looks like: backed by secure custody, enforced by personal financial freedom."

To learn more about opportunities to collect rewards on Bitcoin through Anchorage Digital, users can see the details in this blog post; or follow Mezo and Anchorage Digital on X.

About Mezo

Mezo is the on-chain Bitcoin banking experience owned and controlled by its users. There are no loan officers, no banker hours, and no credit checksjust permissionless banking powered by a decentralized network that provides liquidity without selling Bitcoin. It offers familiar traditional financial services, such as borrowing, lending and saving, delivered through DeFi-native products powered by its Bitcoin-backed stablecoin, MUSD.

Bitcoin holders now have a banking solution tailored to their needs. Users can learn more at mezo.org.

About Thesis*

Thesis* is a pioneering venture studio dedicated to building on Bitcoin. Since 2014 Thesis* has committed to building solutions focused on empowering individuals and communities through creation of market leading products including Fold, Mezo, tBTC, Acre and Taho in its core portfolio of brands. Thesis* continues to challenge traditional systems, driven by innovation and a belief in a sovereign digital future shaping the decentralized landscape one project at a time.

To learn more, users can visit: www.thesis.co

About Anchorage Digital

Anchorage Digital is a global crypto platform that enables institutions to participate in digital assets through trading, staking, custody, governance, settlement, stablecoin issuance, and the industry's leading security infrastructure. Home to Anchorage Digital Bank N.A., the only federally chartered crypto bank in the U.S., Anchorage Digital also serves institutions through Anchorage Digital Singapore, which is licensed by the Monetary Authority of Singapore; Anchorage Digital NY, which holds a BitLicense from the New York Department of Financial Services; and self-custody wallet Porto by Anchorage Digital. The company is funded by leading institutions including Andreessen Horowitz, GIC, Goldman Sachs, KKR, and Visa, with its Series D valuation over $3 billion. Founded in 2017 in San Francisco, California, Anchorage Digital has offices in New York, New York; Porto, Portugal; Singapore; and Sioux Falls, South Dakota. Users can learn more at anchorage.com, on X @Anchorage, and on LinkedIn.

Media contact: [email protected]

Important Disclosures

Features described are not yet available to all users. Anchorage Digital clients will receive priority access, with general availability subject to network conditions. Annual Percentage Yields (APY) for veBTC locking are variable, change daily based on network activity, and are not guaranteed. Yields derive from Mezo network fees paid in Bitcoin. Mezo is a permissionless platform and does not hold any regulatory or banking licenses, and is not insured by any governmental authority, including the FDIC. By interacting with the Mezo platform, you acknowledge that digital assets are volatile and you may lose your entire principal investment. Smart contract vulnerabilities could result in total loss of funds. MUSD borrowing requires overcollateralization with liquidation risk if collateral value falls. Neither Mezo nor Anchorage Digital guarantees against platform insolvency. This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute financial advice. Users should consult with qualified professionals before making any investment decisions.

Contact

Senior Account Executive

Andrew Heibeck

M Group Strategic Communciations

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SOURCE Mezo
Over 272 eminent citizens, including 16 Judges, 123 retired bureaucrats, 14 Ambassadors, 133 retired armed forces officers, have written an open letter condemning the repeated "assault on national constitutional authorities" by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The letter states that instead of offering "genuine policy alternatives," the Congress leader has resorted to "unsubstantiated accusations." Condemning earlier repeated alleged assaults on institutions such as questioning the valour of the armed forces, the fairness of the judiciary, the letter said that it is the Election Commission this time which is facing "systematic and conspiratorial attacks on its integrity and reputation." "The Leader of Opposition, Lok Sabha, has repeatedly attacked the Election Commission, declaring that he has open and shut proof that the Election Commission is involved in vote theft and claimed that he has 100 per cent proof. Using unbelievably uncouth rhetoric, that what he has found is an atom bomb and when it explodes, the EC would have no place to hide," the open letter stated. Yet, despite such scathing accusations, there has been no formal complaint filed by him, along with the prescribed sworn affidavit, to escape his accountability for levelling unsubstantiated allegations and threatening public servants in performance of their duty, the letter added. Criticising other groups, including "several senior figures of Congress and other political parties, leftist NGOs, ideologically opinionated scholars, and a few attention seekers in other walks of life," the letter mentioned that the accusations are an "are attempt to drape political frustration in the garb of institutional crisis." "This pattern of behaviour reflects what might be called 'impotent rage' --deep anger born of repeated electoral failure and frustration, without a concrete plan to reconnect with the people," the letter states. The letter further criticised several Congress leaders and other political parties for being selective in their criticism of the ECI, staying silent when electoral outcomes are favourable to them but making the ECI the villain when they are unfavourable. The letter called on members of civil society and citizens to stand firmly with the Election Commission and urged political actors to stop undermining the "vital institution" with baseless allegations and theatrical denunciations. "Now is the time for civil society and the citizens of India to stand firmly with the Election Commission, not out of flattery, but out of conviction. The society should demand that political actors stop undermining this vital institution with baseless allegations and theatrical denunciations. Instead, they should offer the public serious policy alternatives, meaningful reform ideas, and a national vision rooted in reality," the letter said. The letter also called upon the ECI to "continue its path of transparency and rigour," to publish complete data, to defend itself through legal channels when necessary, and to reject politics dressed up as victimhood. The letter said, "Civil society reaffirms its unshakeable faith in the Indian Armed Force, the Indian Judiciary and Executive, and specifically the Election Commission, in its integrity, and in its role as guardian of democracy. India's institutions must not be reduced to political punching bags." Multiple eminent personalities, including SP Vaid, former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police; Former diplomat Anil Trigunayat; retired justice S N Dhingra; former Supreme Court judge Adarsh Kumar Goel; former RAW chief Sanjeev Tripathi; former NIA director Yogesh Chander Modi; former Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh Deepak Singhal, among others have signed the letter. (ANI)
Marking the beginning of a grand series of religious programmes dedicated to the 350th year of the unparalleled martyrdom of Hind Di Chadar, the Ninth Guru, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Sahib Ji, who sacrificed his life for humanity and freedom of religion, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) Punjab organised a magnificent Kirtan Darbar on Wednesday at Sri Anandpur Sahib. Huzoori Raagi Ranjit Singh Ji (Patna), along with Rajinder Singh (Anandpur Sahib), Gagandeep Singh (Ganganagar), and Devinder Singh Khalsa (Khanna), recited Gurbani Kirtan and invoked the teachings and supreme sacrifice of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, said a release from the party. Before the Kirtan Darbar, Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, BJP National Secretary and Co-Incharge Dr Narinder Singh Raina, State President Sunil Jakhar, Working State President Ashwani Sharma, Parliamentary Board Member Iqbal Singh Lalpura, Organisation General Secretary Manthri Srinivas Sullu, Former State President and Ex-Union Minister Vijay Sampla, Former State President and Ex-MP Avinash Rai Khanna, Former Union Minister Maharani Preneet Kaur, Former Minister Tikshan Sood, Former MLA Kawal Singh Dhillon, Mahila Morcha Punjab President Jai Inder Kaur, State Vice Presidents Vikram Singh Cheema and Subhash Sharma, State General Secretaries Parminder Barar, Anil Sareen, Rakesh Rathore, Dayal Singh Sodhi, Ropar District President Ajay Veer Lalpura, and other senior leaders paid obeisance at Takht Sri Keshgarh Sahib and offered Ardas for Punjab's progress and peace. At the conclusion, Head Granthi of Gurdwara Sri Bangla Sahib (Delhi) Giani Ranjit Singh and Union Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat said that today is not only a day to remember Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji's martyrdom but also a day to draw inspiration from his sacrifice, life, teachings, and conduct, and to imbibe them in our own lives. On this occasion, after paying obeisance before Guru Sahib, the State President of the party, Sunil Jakhar, said that Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji made a unique sacrifice for the right of every individual to practice their religion -- a sacrifice unmatched in history. He said that the spirit of sacrificing for the nation and the community comes to all Punjabis from Guru Sahib, and the purpose of holding such events is to connect our future generations with our glorious history. Sunil Jakhar said that today they have come to seek blessings from Guru Sahib and pray that they may imbibe his message in their lives. Sunil Jakhar added that by making his great sacrifice, Sri Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji protected not only Hinduism but the entire humanity, and that is why he is revered with the title 'Hind Di Chadar'. BJP Punjab Working President Ashwani Sharma said that on 24 November, Sri Sukhmani Sahib Paath will be held in all 628 mandals of Punjab BJP, with thousands of devotees and party workers participating. Additionally, Kirtan Darbars will be organised in every district of Punjab till 30 November. He added that these events are not only symbols of religious devotion but also an opportunity to spread Guru Ji's eternal message of sacrifice, unity, and truth to every individual and inspire them. The year 2025 marks the 350th anniversary of the martyrdom (Shaheedi) of Guru Tegh Bahadur Ji, the ninth Sikh Guru. Guru Tegh Bahadur was publicly executed in Delhi in 1675, on the orders of Mughal Emperor Aurangzeb, for defending religious freedom. (ANI)
On November 20, the President will grace the Janjatiya Gaurav Diwas celebration, organised by the Government of Chhattisgarh at Ambikapur.

It added that on November 21, the President will inaugurate the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav 2025 at Rashtrapati Nilayam, Bolarum, Secunderabad.

The second edition of the Bharatiya Kala Mahotsav will showcase the rich cultural, culinary, and artistic traditions of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Rajasthan, Goa, Dadra & Nagar Haveli, and Daman & Diu.

On November 22, the President will grace the special session to commemorate the centenary celebration of Sri Sathya Sai Baba at Prasanthi Nilayam, Puttaparthi.

Earlier in the day, President Droupadi Murmu attended the fifth convocation of the National Institute of Technology Delhi on Wedneday, where she urged the graduating students to focus on innovations that meaningfully uplift society, stressing that true progress lies not only in invention but in its ability to reduce inequalities and inspire hope.

Posting on X, the President's office wrote, "President Droupadi Murmu graced the fifth convocation ceremony of the National Institute of Technology Delhi at New Delhi. She urged the students to remember that the measure of true progress is not just the invention, but also the positive impact it has on society. She said that the systems, technologies and solutions they develop should strive to reduce inequalities and inspire new hope in people's lives." (ANI)
Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta has affirmed that her government is fully committed to the beautification and planned redevelopment of Old Delhi (the Walled City). She said the Delhi Government is undertaking serious efforts to restore the historical and cultural heritage of the area. To achieve this, the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation (SRDC) will soon be reconstituted so that Old Delhi's traditional character can be revived and local residents and traders receive improved civic amenities, according to an official release. The Chief Minister added that the government is formulating major plans for the holistic development of the old city. A high-level meeting on this issue was chaired by the Chief Minister today at the Delhi Secretariat. Chandni Chowk MP Praveen Khandelwal, Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood, and senior officials from SRDC, PWD, the Municipal Corporation of Delhi, and Delhi Police attended the meeting. It was unanimously agreed that the redevelopment and revitalisation of the Walled City is urgently required. Due to the gross negligence of the previous government, the condition of the area has deteriorated significantly, with challenges in the historic Chandni Chowk market continuing to intensify. During the meeting, MP Praveen Khandelwal noted that the Shahjahanabad Redevelopment Corporation has become largely inactive, as the previous government did not prioritise the development of Old Delhi through it. He recommended the reconstitution of SRDC and proposed the inclusion of experts in heritage and history alongside government officials. He also suggested that the name of SRDC be changed. Urban Development Minister Ashish Sood emphasised the need to involve companies specialising in heritage conservation to ensure that the Walled City's traditional character is restored. He said commercial activities should be entirely restricted within heritage structures in Old Delhi, and construction activities must be halted to preserve the original look of the Chandni Chowk market. Chief Minister Rekha Gupta stated that the government is determined to restore the pride and cultural identity of the Walled City, and detailed plans are already underway. She pointed out that development in Chandni Chowk has been hampered because the area falls under the jurisdiction of three different government agencies, resulting in repeated delays. She said the SRDC will be reconstituted soon, and development work in the Walled City will be undertaken through the revamped corporation, which will include qualified heritage conservation experts. The Chief Minister also emphasised the government's commitment to improving facilities in the Chandni Chowk market, which attracts lakhs of visitors daily for shopping and tourism. She directed officials to expedite improvement works in the area. She was informed about the shortage of women's toilets in the market and instructed the concerned department to immediately construct Pink Toilets to address the issue. (ANI)
India has lower MRSA and VRE rates than the US and Europe, despite a high prevalence of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs), according to official sources. This comes after a Lancet study found 83.1% of Indian ERCP patients were colonised with MDROs, but this doesn't imply clinical infection or treatment failure. Official sources from the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) caution against misinterpreting the data and highlight the importance of surveillance, infection control, and stewardship. NCDC have also stated that the data pertain to a high-risk clinical cohort rather than the general population. The international, multicentre cross-sectional study, conducted across tertiary care centres in the Netherlands, India, Italy and the USA, reported that 83.1% of Indian ERCP patients were colonised with at least one MDRO. The study's findings are specific to high-risk patients with comorbidities and frequent healthcare exposure, and can't be generalised to the broader population. According to the official sources, "colonisation indicates only the presence of organisms and does not imply clinical infection or treatment failure." "These findings pertain to a particular group of patients who already have multiple comorbidities, frequent healthcare exposure and higher antibiotic use. They cannot be generalised to the broader Indian population or routine healthcare scenarios," stated official sources. Contrary to concerns of widespread antimicrobial resistance (AMR), the study also indicates that India recorded significantly lower prevalence of methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) (1.4%) and vancomycin-resistant Enterococci (VRE) (7.4%) compared to the US and parts of Europe, signalling the effectiveness of containment strategies for gram-positive infections in the country. Experts further pointed out, "The study does not report higher ERCP-associated infection or mortality risk among Indian patients, reinforcing that high colonisation rates do not necessarily translate into adverse clinical outcomes." The NCDC experts further added that specific comparisons drawn between India and countries with lower infectious disease burdens may not reflect contextual realities. "Microbial resistance trends vary across regions and must be understood in light of differential population density, morbidity patterns and healthcare access. The study itself recommends region-specific prevention strategies," they noted. Officials cautioned against linking the findings to alleged excessive antibiotic use in India, clarifying that cross-sectional studies, such as the current one, cannot establish causation. Moreover, the study does not assess or report community-level spread of MDR organisms. In conclusion, the NCDC expert reiterated the importance of interpreting such scientific data within a clinical context. "While antimicrobial resistance remains a global concern, this study should not be misrepresented as a marker of systemic failure. The findings underscore the need for continued surveillance, infection control and stewardship, not alarmism." (ANI)
Union Minister CR Paatil on Wednesday attended the World Toilet Day Summit on the occasion of World Toilet Day in New Delhi. Speaking to reporters, the Union Minister said that this summit will be extremely useful in spreading awareness in the coming days. "The way the Prime Minister has worked on the issue of cleanliness, around 12 crore toilets have been made, and around 15 crore houses are getting clean water. So, in terms of cleanliness, we cannot separate toilets and water. Making 12 crore toilets and supplying water to 15 crore houses is a historical step. We are trying to make it better. Wherever complaints have come in, we've taken action. We will not tolerate any irregularities in the water supply system under the Jal Jeevan Mission under any circumstances. Every household should have access to good-quality water, and we are working with all our might to achieve this objective," CR Patil told reporters. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had also attended the summit. World Toilet Day is observed every year on November 19 to raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis and the importance of safe toilets for all. It was officially designated as a United Nations observance in 2013. It highlights toilets as vital for health, dignity, equality, and sustainability and directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, aiming for universal access by 2030. According to an official release, India's Swachh Bharat Mission is often highlighted by the UN bodies such as UNICEF as one of the largest sanitation drives globally, showcasing how national action can contribute to global goals. As World Toilet Day is being observed, India is moving ahead by turning sanitation into a nationwide success story. The Government of India has launched several landmark initiatives to improve sanitation and hygiene across the country. The Swachh Bharat Mission (SBM) has been the flagship program, aiming to eliminate open defecation and provide universal toilet access in both rural and urban areas. India has seen a transformation in its sanitation drive since the launch of the Swachh Bharat Mission, which transformed access to toilets and hygiene facilities across rural and urban areas. (ANI)
Uttar Pradesh Minister Danish Azad Ansari on Wednesday dismissed RJD leader Jagdanand Singh's allegations against the Election Commission regarding EVMs, calling them "irresponsible statements". Ansari attributed these comments to the RJD, Congress, and Samajwadi Party's frustration over their election defeat in Bihar. "The RJD, Congress, and Samajwadi Party are frustrated by their election defeat and are making irresponsible statements," Ansari told ANI, suggesting the RJD and its allies are struggling to accept their electoral setback. The controversy arose when senior RJD leader Jagdanand Singh alleged that each EVM used in the recent Bihar polls was "pre-loaded with 25,000 votes" before voting began. The ECI immediately refuted the claim as "technically impossible" and "procedurally false," citing statutory records and mock poll certificates signed by RJD's own agents that confirmed zero votes at the beginning of the process. The BJP leader asserted that the opposition's failure to accept the democratic outcome reflected poorly on their politics, directly linking their statements to their electoral loss. Ansari emphasised that the people of Bihar have given a clear mandate, which should be accepted. He warned that such statements would lead to further losses for these parties, citing potential defeats in Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal. He firmly stated, "The people of Bihar have given a clear mandate, which must be accepted by all... Such statements are the reason for their loss, and the public will not accept them in the future. In Uttar Pradesh as well as in West Bengal, they will face the same defeat." After the recently concluded assembly elections in Bihar, the ruling NDA government secured a thumping majority, winning 202 seats in the 243-member House. Nitish Kumar will take oath as Chief Minister of Bihar for the 10th time tomorrow. (ANI)
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami has appealed to social media content creators and influencers to prominently highlight Uttarakhand's tourist destinations, local products, cultural heritage, and social achievements in their content. He said that social media creators can also effectively counter fake news and negative narratives. Addressing the "Social Media Manthan" program held on Wednesday at the Mukhya Sevak Sadan, Chief Minister Dhami said that social media has today become the fastest and most effective medium for communication and information exchange."A person sitting in any corner of the world can share their thoughts and perspective with the entire world within moments. Social media has provided a powerful platform for every citizen's voice. This is why everything, from major global events to even the smallest local issues, reaches millions of people within seconds." The Chief Minister said that after assuming office in 2014, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made social media and digital platforms an integral part of governance. He transformed social media into a strong medium of communication, transparency, and citizen participation, making governance not only people-centric but also directly connecting each citizen to policy-making and decision processes. "Through platforms like X, Facebook, 'Mann Ki Baat', MyGov, and the PMO's digital ecosystem, Prime Minister Modi has set a new benchmark for 'digital governance' in India. He himself is among the most-followed political leaders in the world." The Chief Minister said that, inspired by the Prime Minister, the state government is committed to building a "Digital Uttarakhand." He added that many times, a single post or livestream has helped a child receive treatment, restored an elderly person's pension, facilitated road repairs, or enabled the rescue of people trapped during disasters. On the other hand, "misuse of social media is also rising rapidly. Fake news, rumours, and negative narratives have become a major challenge, as some people use social media to create ideological divides, disturb social harmony, and spread misunderstandings about government welfare schemes. In such times, the role of responsible social media warriors becomes even more crucial." The Chief Minister said that recently, some individuals with anti-religious and anti-national mindsets have been attempting to malign religious beliefs and the state's rich cultural traditions by spreading misleading news, fake narratives, and false propaganda. "In such situations, it is essential not only to fact-check such content immediately but also to ensure that accurate information reaches the public." CM Dhami further said that some negative content creators distort facts and present misleading information related to the government, society, religion, and the pride of the state to gain more views and likes. However, "everyone must understand that the race for popularity and followers must not overshadow one's moral responsibility and social duty." (ANI)
Former Chilean President Michelle Bachelet was on Wednesday presented with the Indira Gandhi Prize for Peace, Disarmament and Development. The award was presented to her by the Congress Parliamentary Party Chairperson, Sonia Gandhi, who is also the chairperson of the Indira Gandhi Memorial Trust, which confers the Indira Gandhi Peace Prize. Those present included Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge and jury Chairman Shiv Shankar Menon. Presenting the award, Sonia Gandhi recalled her contribution not only to her country, but towards global peace. She said Michelle Bachelet has seen loss, oppression, torture and exile in her early years and recalled her journey of breaking barriers and becoming Chile and Latin America's first woman Defence Minister. Bachelet made history when she was elected President of her country on two separate occasions. Sonia Gandhi said Bachelet's influence extended far beyond the borders of Chile and Latin America, when she was appointed as the first director of UN Women Agency in 2010 and later as the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights. "Her work has been rooted in efforts to ensure the rights of all, but particularly of women. She believes that gender equality is imperative to resolving all that afflicts our world. As President, she reformed her country's healthcare system by improving access to primary care facilities, targeting her government's policies towards vulnerable sections such as victims of sexual abuse, promoting their rights to good health and well-being. She was also responsible for improving the conditions and treatment of women in the military and police forces," Sonia Gandhi said. She said Bachelet's far-reaching tax reforms resulted in more inclusive pension schemes and social protection programmes for women and children, and the adoption of quotas to increase women's political participation. "Legislations introduced by her government have done much to promote equality, rights and freedoms to all," she said. The former Chilean President praised India's extraordinary cultural richness, profound history and vibrant diversity. She said, the ancient civilization gave birth to science, philosophy and art. She said, in India, tradition and modernity work hand in hand. Bachelet said that Indira Gandhi believed that the nations would prosper when they remained in harmony with one another. She said, with multiple conflicts and challenges around, no nation can solve these alone. Bachelet said she was inspired by Indira Gandhi to join politics to improve the welfare of people. She said, peace and progress are integral for human dignity. The former Chilean President said multilateralism was needed today more than ever and underlined the "need for working together every day across nations, generations and differences". (ANI)
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh (RSS) chief Mohan Bhagwat has appealed to the youth of Assam and northeast India not to create any opinion about the RSS based on "pre-conceived notions" or "motivated propaganda". Bhagwat, while addressing a Youth Leadership Conclave at Sudarshanalaya in the Barbari locality of the city on Wednesday, also urged the youth to closely observe and understand the RSS. Making several important remarks on the principles, ideals, and functioning of the RSS, Bhagwat also highlighted various debates and discussions surrounding the organisation before over a hundred young representatives from different fields. Beginning his address, the RSS chief, who is on a two-day visit to Assam, said the RSS is now a subject of public discussion. "But those discussions should be based on factual information," he asserted. Talking about various sources of information, Bhagwat admitted that on different international platforms and some other digital sources which deliver information, over 50% of the information related to the RSS is either incorrect or incomplete. "There is also a deliberate misinformation campaign against the RSS in different media outlets," he stated. The 19 November event began with a patriotic song by vocalist Sharat Raag, and it is marked as an important step in helping the youth of the entire region to understand the RSS. Referring to the vision of RSS founder Keshav Baliram Hedgewar, the Sarsanghchalak stated that the Sangh's primary aim is to make India a 'Vishwaguru' (teacher to the world). Stating that the nation can rise only when the society rises, Bhagwat added that 'only when a united and quality-driven society can be created to lead a progressive nation'. Urging the youth to study the history of developed nations, he highlighted that the first hundred years of their growth were focused on building unity and qualitative strength within their societies. "Indian society also needs to evolve similarly," Bhagwat emphasised, noting that this idea is reflected in the five key principles of social transformation (Panch Parivartsn) of the RSS, adopted on the occasion of its centenary year. The RSS chief said that Bharat's greatness as a nation lies in its long-standing tradition of respecting and accepting linguistic, regional, and belief-oriented diversities. "The mindset of respecting diversity is not found in many other countries," he said. He pointed out that those who separated from Bharat eventually lost their diversities, citing how Punjabi and Sindhi speakers in Pakistan are compelled to practise the Urdu language. He reiterated that those who respect diversity are the Hindus, and creating such a Hindu society is the primary objective of the RSS. "Until the Bharatiya society is organised and virtuous, the country's destiny will not change," he opined. Bhagwat reminded that great spiritual leaders like Guru Nanak and Srimanta Sankardeva had full respect for the country's diversity, and they spread the messages of unity through their teachings. "Diversity is a celebration of unity," he said. "RSS is an ideal man-making methodology," he said, adding that the objective of the Sangh is to develop a non-political and social leadership at the grassroots level. Building individual leads to the transformation of society, and when the society changes, systems also change," he asserted. Bhagwat also invited the youth to experience how the activities in RSS shakhas focus on improving the quality and character of individuals. Participating in an interactive session, he stated that corruption can be eradicated only through character-building. He further added that, beyond the legal measures for cow protection, more scientific knowledge about the cows at the societal level becomes necessary for their successful protection. Reiterating the RSS's main goal to build a stronger Bharat, Bhagwat commented that once the country becomes stronger, the different concerns regarding the north-eastern region with the rest of India will automatically diminish. He insisted that there is no alternative to strengthening Bharat under the principle of 'India First'. Calling upon the youth to engage with the RSS activities according to their time, interest, space and abilities, the RSS chief explained that the Sangh is an integral part of society. Bhagwat also mentioned that the foundation of the RSS in the far eastern region is gradually becoming stronger. (ANI)
FAIRFIELD, N.J., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Parker Laboratories, a leading manufacturer of products for medical ultrasound, is pleased to acknowledge that the American Institute of Ultrasound in Medicine (AIUM) has issued an updated set of guidelines on the handling of ultrasound probes in healthcare settings, incorporating chlorine dioxide for the first time as an option for high-level disinfection (HLD) reprocessing. The revised guidelines offer clinicians a safe and cost-effective point-of-care alternative, eliminating many of the complex steps associated with automated reprocessorsreportedly an area of heightened scrutiny by surveyors of The Joint Commission (TJC) in 2025.

Chlorine dioxide is available in North America under the brand name Tristel ULT, which is manufactured and distributed by Parker Laboratories under an exclusive partnership with UK-based Tristel plc (AIM: TSTL). Approved for use in more than 35 countries since 2008, Tristel ULT is the only FDA-cleared chlorine dioxide foam disinfectant for ultrasound probes available in the United States. The method was also recently added to the American national standard on chemical sterilization and high-level disinfection in healthcare facilities (ANSI/AAMI ST58).

Simplifying HLD at the Point of Care

Maintaining the compliance of traditional HLD automated systems and soaking methods requires frontline healthcare workers and reprocessing staff to carry out a strict regimen of cleaning, chemical validation, routine maintenance, and extensive documentation. Units found to be out of compliance may need to be taken out of service for repair or replacement of disinfection chemicals, making them unavailable for processing ultrasound equipment.

In contrast, chlorine dioxide is delivered manually using proprietary wipes, enabling probe reprocessing to be performed directly at the point of care. Adopting this novel disinfection modality not only streamlines workflows but also reduces potential opportunities for error and supports TJC's focus on infection prevention practices.

Empowering Frontline Clinicians

Unlike automated reprocessors, chlorine dioxide foam enables probes to be disinfected immediately after use, right at the point of care. This novel approach not only shortens turnaround times but also gives nurses and sonographers direct control over the process, reducing the risk of missed steps and reinforcing compliance with infection prevention protocols.

"Clinicians are being asked to do more with fewer resources, while still ensuring compliance with increasingly stringent infection prevention standards," says Connie Cutler, MS, BS, BSN, RN, CIC, FSHEA, FAPIC, president and CEO of Chicago Infection Control Inc. "Having a high-level disinfection method at the point of care is a game-changer. It simplifies processes, empowers frontline staff, and enhances patient safety."

Proven Advantages for Infection Prevention and Control

Adoption of Tristel ULT offers frontline healthcare workers a variety of features in support of infection prevention and control in all healthcare settings. Key benefits include:

Point-of-care disinfection: Eliminates the need to transport probes to central reprocessing units, reducing turnaround time and risk of damage.

Eliminates the need to transport probes to central reprocessing units, reducing turnaround time and risk of damage. Simplified workflow: Removes many of the steps and machine dependencies associated with automated HLD systems.

Removes many of the steps and machine dependencies associated with automated HLD systems. Proven efficacy: With a two-minute kill time, effective against a broad spectrum of bloodborne viruses and pathogens, including C. difficile , HPV, and M. tuberculosis .

With a two-minute kill time, effective against a broad spectrum of bloodborne viruses and pathogens, including , HPV, and . Compatibility: Safe for use with over 1,100 ultrasound probes and transducers.

Safe for use with over 1,100 ultrasound probes and transducers. Digital traceability: Tristel 3T, a complementary app, provides effortless digital tracking, automatically logging each HLD cycle to support compliance and accreditation requirements.

Recent Study Evidence

Recent evidence has substantiated the importance of these benefits. At the 2025 annual meeting of the Association for Vascular Access, a comparative analysis presented by Nancy Moureau, RN, PhD, CRNI, CPUI, VA-BC, CEO of PICC Excellence, and Connie Cutler, showed chlorine dioxide foam used with a proprietary wipe delivers the fastest turnaround time and most efficient workflow of the HLD methods evaluated.

"Consistency is the foundation of infection prevention," says Cutler. "If a method is too complex, staff compliance drops. By simplifying disinfection steps at the point of care, we help ensure protocols are followed every time, which protects patients and preserves budgets."

Supporting The Joint Commission's 2025 Priorities

Many infection preventionists report ultrasound probe disinfection with HLD machines is a key survey focus area for 2025. By adopting chlorine dioxide disinfection, hospitals can proactively address this priority while ensuring effective, standardized practices across departments.

"Tristel ULT provides infection prevention teams an innovative option that aligns with today's realitiesfast-paced care environments, resource limitations, and the need for uncompromising safety," says Neal Buchalter, president of Parker Laboratories. "AIUM's update signals a turning point for infection prevention. By bringing high-level disinfection to the point of care, hospitals can eliminate device turnaround delays, boost compliance, and improve patient safetyall while addressing a focus on ultrasound probe reprocessing in their accreditation surveys."

About Parker Laboratories

Parker Laboratories (Fairfield, NJ), a global medical products company, develops, manufactures, and sells ultrasound and electromedical contact media, as well as instrument cleaners and disinfectants. The company is a leading manufacturer in the ultrasound industry, known for products like Aquasonic 100 Ultrasound Transmission Gel, which is the world standard, and Tristel ULT, a novel high-level disinfectant using chlorine dioxide foam. For more information, visit www.parkerlabs.com.

MKT-045-0063 Rev 0

Contact:

Liz Dowling

Dowling & Dennis PR

760-822-3412

[email protected]

SOURCE Parker Laboratories
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh has launched a sharp attack on the Modi government over US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not "openly say that President Trump is wrong". He also said that he does not see any clarity on the trade deal with the United States, and India is reducing its oil imports from Russia due to pressure from Trump. Jairam Ramesh said PM Modi does not miss an opportunity to defame Congress but is silent on Trump's remarks. "Yesterday evening at the White House, US President Trump reiterated for the sixtieth time, when Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman was also with him, that because of me, a war between India and Pakistan was prevented. India had to stop Operation Sindoor, and our Prime Minister is silent," the Congress leader told ANI. "Our Prime Minister does not miss an opportunity to defame the Congress. He lashes out at Congress and defames our leaders and when President Trump says sixty times that Operation Sindoor was stopped because of me, because I used the trade agreement as a weapon, yet our Prime Minister remains silent. I don't understand why he is afraid; why doesn't he openly say that President Trump is wrong?" he asked. India and Pakistan agreed to end hostilities during Op Sindoor after Pakistan's DGMO called his Indian counterpart. Replying to a question on negotiations for the Bilateral Trade Agreement, Jairam Ramesh said the Commerce and Industry Minister has said that 90 per cent work has been done but there is no clarity. "I don't see any clarity on the trade deal. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has also said that 90% of the work has been done. One thing is clear: the amount of oil we used to buy from Russia, we are reducing that number, because of the pressure of US President Trump," he said. (ANI)
Senior Congress leader and former External Affairs Minister Salman Khurshid on Wednesday asserted that it was "not correct" to label Lok Sabha Leader of Opposition (LoP) Rahul Gandhi "wrong" over allegations of vote theft when the Election Commission of India (ECI) has failed to answer on the evidence presented. "They (ECI) didn't give any answer to the evidence which was presented by Rahul Gandhi. If you reject evidence, then you tell on what basis it was done. Only to say that Rahul Gandhi is wrong is not correct," Khurshid told ANI. Reacting to Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah's emotional statement in the wake of the Delhi car blast, Khushid said, "He is an elected CM of J&K and we should try to understand his thoughts on his state, the youth and future of his state." Earlier in the day, Abdullah said that an attempt was being made to create an environment to hold Kashmiris guilty for the crimes of a handful of people who were involved in the Delhi car blast near Red Fort that claimed 15 lives and left several injured. When asked to comment on Congress MP Shashi Tharoor praising Prime Minister Narendra Modi's Ramnath Goenka Lecture, Khurshid said, "I am not his speech writer. You should ask him. If you want any explanation on what he said, then you should ask him." This came after Tharoor praised PM Modi's address at Ramnath Goenka Awards, where the PM focused on overturning Macaulay's 200-year legacy of a "slave mentality" and restoring pride in India's heritage, languages, and knowledge systems. Meanwhile, Congress leader Mani Shankar Aiyar refused to comment on the letter written by eminent personalities lambasting Rahul Gandhi over his repeated allegations of vote theft against the ECI. "Ask the Congress official spokesman, I am not," he said. On 'vote chori' allegations, he said, "I have nothing to say." When asked about Tharoor's tweet on PM Modi, Aiyar said, "Ask Shashi Tharoor. Why are you asking me?" Over 272 eminent citizens, including 16 Judges, 123 retired bureaucrats, 14 Ambassadors, and 133 retired armed forces officers, have written an open letter condemning the repeated "assault on national constitutional authorities" by Rahul Gandhi. The letter states that instead of offering "genuine policy alternatives," the Congress leader has resorted to "unsubstantiated accusations."Condemning earlier repeated alleged assaults on institutions such as questioning the valour of the armed forces, the fairness of the judiciary, the letter said that it is the Election Commission this time which is facing "systematic and conspiratorial attacks on its integrity and reputation." "The Leader of Opposition, Lok Sabha, has repeatedly attacked the Election Commission, declaring that he has open and shut proof that the Election Commission is involved in vote theft and claimed that he has 100 per cent proof. Using unbelievably uncouth rhetoric, that what he has found is an atom bomb, and when it explodes, the EC would have no place to hide," the open letter stated. Yet, despite such scathing accusations, there has been no formal complaint filed by him, along with the prescribed sworn affidavit, to escape his accountability for levelling unsubstantiated allegations and threatening public servants in performance of their duty, the letter added. Criticising other groups, including "several senior figures of Congress and other political parties, leftist NGOs, ideologically opinionated scholars, and a few attention seekers in other walks of life," the letter mentioned that the accusations are an "attempt to drape political frustration in the garb of institutional crisis." "This pattern of behaviour reflects what might be called 'impotent rage', deep anger born of repeated electoral failure and frustration, without a concrete plan to reconnect with the people," the letter states. Multiple eminent personalities, including SP Vaid, former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police; Former diplomat Anil Trigunayat; retired justice S N Dhingra; former Supreme Court judge Adarsh Kumar Goel; former RAW chief Sanjeev Tripathi; former NIA director Yogesh Chander Modi; former Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh Deepak Singhal, among others have signed the letter. (ANI)
Vasai Police has registered an FIR and arrested a teacher after a 12-year-old student died following a punishment of 100 sit-ups for arriving late to school. Senior Police Inspector Dilip Ghuge confirmed the incident and said that the police will investigate further, holding the school administration accountable if negligence is found. "Her post-mortem has been done in that. The post-mortem report has been received. Based on eyewitness statements, including those of school teachers and other students, a case FIR has been registered, and the teacher has been arrested... The inquiry is ongoing and at the initial stage. If there is negligence on their (the school administration's) part, then action will also be taken against them," Ghuge told ANI. The police investigation revealed that the teacher punished the girl and other late students with sit-ups on November 8. The girl experienced discomfort and swelling, leading to hospitalisation. "On 8th November, a girl came to school 10 minutes late. The school teacher punished her and the other students who came late by making them do sit-ups... When the girl went home, she started feeling some discomfort, with her legs swelling, as her mother told her. Later, her mother admitted her to the hospital, where she was given medicines and treatment. After treatment, she was admitted to JJ Hospital on 13th November. The girl's parents say that because of coming late to school, the teacher made her do sit-ups, and that is why our daughter lost her life," added Ghuge. A 12-year-old student in Vasai, Maharashtra, died after being punished with 100 squats for being late to school. Her mother, Sheela Gaud, alleged the punishment led to her daughter's death, citing the school's negligence. "Permission was not granted because my daughter was late. Because my child was late, she was made to do sit-ups with bags hanging from her, along with many other students. My daughter hasn't disclosed how many sit-ups she was required to do. However, according to what the children said, some did 100, others 50, and some 60. My daughter also did the same. When my daughter came home at five in the evening, she said that her back was hurting... Upon inquiring, she told me what happened... Since then, her problems kept increasing, and ultimately she died... First, we admitted her to Astha Hospital, where doctors said that they were giving her medicines, and she got nervous because of the sit-ups. They also told me her back has become stiff and she has no illness...," said Sheela Gaud. The incident sparked outrage, with allegations of the school trying to evade responsibility. The mother claimed the school manager asked her to leave the hospital and refused to pay fees, despite her daughter being in critical condition. "After this, I took her to Vijay Lakshmi Hospital, where they put my daughter in the ICU... Sir (school manager Ram Asrey Yadav) went there and asked about hospital fees... Later, the sir asked me to get out of there as soon as possible. So I told him that we cannot go anywhere from here until the doctor's fees are settled. I asked the sir to send us some money. On this, Sir replied that he had not a single penny... After talking with my husband, he said he had cash ready for the ambulance... The ambulance driver stopped in the middle and told us he would move ahead until he got the money. So, we asked the sir to send money through Google Pay, but he denied. After this, one doctor paid for an ambulance. Upon reaching there, we asked the sir to pay, but the sir ignored us. After this, the doctor asked us to return his money. ... Then the son of my brother-in-law took a loan from someone else and paid him.... While the paperwork was being done, sir started running away. Then people from my side dragged him and asked him to be present here since it's his responsibility...," said Sheela Gaud. The school's actions have been widely criticised, with many calling for accountability and justice for the young student. The incident highlights concerns about corporal punishment and school safety in India. (ANI)
After eminent personalities wrote an open letter condemning Congress MP and Lok Sabha LoP Rahul Gandhi for his allegations against the Election Commission of India, Kerala BJP chief Rajeev Chandrasekhar on Wednesday launched a sharp attack on him, saying that he neither cares about India nor Indians. Sharpening his attacks, the BJP leader claimed that politics is Rahul Gandhi's "part-time vocation" and a "way to fund his abroad travels". "I had said many years ago that Rahul Gandhi neither cares about India nor about Indians. There is a particular reason why he doesn't spend more than 3-4 months a year in India. His allegiances, passion, loyalties, desires, all lies outside India. For him, doing politics in India is a part-time vocation is a way to fund his travels abroad. He is nothing in his mind that is remotely about the well-being and integrity of India and Indians. He only cares for himself and his family, and for this reason, Congress has become Rahul Bachao Samaj," Rajeev Chandrasekhar told ANI. Earlier in the day, over 272 eminent citizens, including 16 Judges, 123 retired bureaucrats, 14 Ambassadors, 133 retired armed forces officers, wrote an open letter condemning the repeated "assault on national constitutional authorities" by Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi. The letter states that instead of offering "genuine policy alternatives", the Congress leader has resorted to "unsubstantiated accusations". Condemning earlier repeated alleged assaults on institutions such as questioning the valour of the armed forces, the fairness of the judiciary, the letter said that it is the Election Commission this time which is facing "systematic and conspiratorial attacks on its integrity and reputation." "The Leader of Opposition, Lok Sabha, has repeatedly attacked the Election Commission, declaring that he has open and shut proof that the Election Commission is involved in vote theft and claimed that he has 100 per cent proof. Using unbelievably uncouth rhetoric, that what he has found is an atom bomb, and when it explodes, the EC would have no place to hide," the open letter stated. Yet, despite such scathing accusations, there has been no formal complaint filed by him, along with the prescribed sworn affidavit, to escape his accountability for levelling unsubstantiated allegations and threatening public servants in performance of their duty, the letter added. Criticising other groups, including "several senior figures of Congress and other political parties, leftist NGOs, ideologically opinionated scholars, and a few attention seekers in other walks of life," the letter mentioned that the accusations are an "are attempt to drape political frustration in the garb of institutional crisis". "This pattern of behaviour reflects what might be called 'impotent rage' --deep anger born of repeated electoral failure and frustration, without a concrete plan to reconnect with the people," the letter stated. The letter further criticised several Congress leaders and other political parties for being selective in their criticism of the ECI, staying silent when electoral outcomes are favourable to them but making the ECI the villain when they are unfavourable. The letter called on members of civil society and citizens to stand firmly with the Election Commission and urged political actors to stop undermining the "vital institution" with baseless allegations and theatrical denunciations. Multiple eminent personalities, including SP Vaid, former Director General of Jammu and Kashmir Police; Former diplomat Anil Trigunayat; retired justice SN Dhingra; former Supreme Court judge Adarsh Kumar Goel; former RAW chief Sanjeev Tripathi; former NIA director Yogesh Chander Modi; former Chief Secretary of Uttar Pradesh Deepak Singhal, among others, have signed the letter. (ANI)
Madhya Pradesh Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya on Wednesday inspected the ongoing construction work of the Indore Metro and gave necessary guidelines to the officials. The Minister also reviewed the progress of the road construction at Lavkush Square in the city and later held a meeting at the Gandhinagar Depot to discuss important issues related to the city's development. After the inspection, Minister Vijayvargiya told reporters, "Today we've issued instructions that all agencies (working for Metro and city development) will sit together within 15-20 days. After the metro work, they were required to restore the area, but the restoration was inadequate. During the rainy season, it flooded, leading to blame on the Municipal Corporation, but it was the agency responsible for metro work that failed to properly restore the road. There are many instances where poor coordination between agencies results in negative impacts on the city's beautification and civic amenities." The Minister further added, "Keeping the Simhastha festival in mind, we've instructed the Mayor to meet with all these agencies within 15-20 days to ensure the work is completed within their respective areas of responsibility within time bounds. Because Simhastha is very near, and we have a lot of pending work, we need to organise it properly." Additionally, speaking about the parking issue near the metro station, Vijayvargiya said that he asked Indore Development Authority (IDA) to provide land for parking, though there is a fault in the metro design that they did not care about the parking space near the metro station. "I consider it a major mistake. I have talked to the architect and asked him to find a way to build a parking space. Our main target is Simhastha, and we want all the work to be completed before the festival," he added. Simhastha is a Hindu religious Mela held every 12 years in the Ujjain district. It is also known as the Ujjain Simhastha Kumbh. The previous Simhastha was held in 2016, and the next will be held in 2028. (ANI)
The workshop will serve as a high-level platform to review the national-level progress of the Digital India Land Records Modernization Programme (DILRMP). It brings together senior officers from States and Union Territories, including Principal Secretaries, Secretaries (Revenue), Directors of Land Records, and Settlement Commissioners, to deliberate on challenges and share best practices.

Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh, will grace the inaugural session as the Chief Guest and deliver the keynote address. He will be joined by Jagat Singh Negi, Revenue Minister, Govt. of Himachal Pradesh, and Manoj Joshi, Secretary, Department of Land Resources, Govt. of India.

Kuldeep Singh Pathania, Speaker of the Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha, will also address the workshop on the second day.

The core objective of the workshop is to facilitate dialogue on state-level innovations in land records modernisation, such as real-time geospatial mapping, drone-based surveys, e-registration, and blockchain-based title validation.

The two-day event will feature technical sessions on Registration System Reforms: Focusing on creating fully digital and paperless systems, Geospatial Mapping & Drone Surveys: Deliberating on challenges and opportunities in leveraging drone and GIS technologies for mapping rural and urban land parcels.

The workshop is expected to identify key policy and system-level interventions to accelerate the modernisation of land administration and shape the future roadmap for efficient, transparent, and citizen-centric land governance in India, the ministry said. (ANI)
The Special NIA court at New Delhi on Wednesday granted eleven days custody of Anmol Bishnoi, brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, to the National Investigation Agency after his deportation from the US. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) alleged that the 'criminal syndicate' hatched a conspiracy with Babbar Khalsa International (BKI) and its operatives, for raising funds, recruitment of youth for carrying out terrorist acts in Delhi and other parts of the country. "The same needs to be unearthed." Special Judge Prashant Sharma, after hearing submissions of Counsel, granted 11 days custody of Anmol Bishnoi to NIA. He is to be produced before the court on November 29. The agency had sought 15 days custody of Anmol Bishnoi. While granting 11 days custody, the court said, " Investigation with respect to the role of the accused qua the aspects highlighted in the application has to be unearthed. Investigation with regard to aspects like role of accused in alleged conspiracy, incriminating evidence against him, modus operandi used by him for committing crime in question, source of fund used by him for execution of terror conspiracy and details of social media accounts through which responsibility of terror activities executed by Lawrence Bishnoi gang needs to be unearthed." Special public prosecutor (SPP) Rahul Tyagi, alongwith Public Prosecutor Kushdeep Gaur, appeared for the NIA. The NIA alleged that the members of the crime syndicate hatched a conspiracy with the BKI and its operatives for raising funds, recruitment of youth for carrying out terrorist acts in the Union Territory of Delhi and other parts of the country. Besides that, the said syndicate is involved in executing and planning to execute spectacular heinous crime, including but not limited to targeted killings of prominent persons with an intention to strike terror in the minds of people of the country, in furtherance of cause and objectives of BKI, which is a terrorist organization, included in the Schedule of the UA(P)A. Besides, the NIA also stated that, apart from the main charge-sheet, it has filed four supplementary charge-sheets, as the accused is involved in activities. It was also submitted that the accused was declared a proclaimed offender on 17.01.2025 pursuant to a court order. Subsequently, he was arrested today at 2:30 pm, from Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, the NIA said. The National Investigation Agency (NIA) on Tuesday arrested the brother and close aide of dreaded gangster Lawrence Bishnoi on his deportation from the US to India. SPP for NIA submitted that the investigation is pending in relation to the accused. Further, the accused has absconded from India, and the NIA has initiated legal proceedings to declare him a proclaimed offender. Therefore, the conduct of the accused, coupled with the stage of investigation, warrants that police custody must be granted in this case, Tyagi argued. On the other hand, advocate Rajni, Deepak Nanda, and Nishant Rana appeared for Anmol Bishnoi. They opposed the custody application on various grounds. Counsel for the accused submitted that the application must be dismissed. Advocate Rajni stated that evidence with respect to the accused is already in possession of NIA, and nothing more is required for which police custody has to be given. It was also submitted that there is no fact, within the knowledge of the accused, which warrants his police custody. Besides that, this case is not based on any direct evidence. She further submitted that the accused is ready to cooperate with the investigation and has roots in society. Therefore, the application may be dismissed. In the alternative, she has submitted that if this court grants police custody to the NIA, the mandate of D.K. Basu v State of West Bengal must be complied with. It started by the NIA that Absconding since 2022, US-based Anmol Bishnoi is the 19th accused to be arrested for his involvement in the terror-syndicate led by his jailed brother, Lawrence Bishnoi. Anmol was chargesheeted by the NIA in March 2023 after investigations in the case established that he had actively aided designated individual terrorist Goldy Brar and Lawrence Bishnoi in the commission of various acts of terrorism in the country during the 2020-2023 period. It is alleged that operating closely with various Bishnoi gang associates, Anmol continued to run terror syndicates and execute terrorist acts from the US for the Lawrence Bishnoi gang, using its operatives on the ground. Investigations revealed that Anmol Bishnoi had provided shelter and logistic support to the gang's shooters and ground operatives. He was also engaged in extortion in India from foreign soil with the help of other gangsters. It is stated that Anmol's name surfaced in the investigation of cases of Siddu Moosewala's murder case, the MLA Siddiqui's murder case of Mumbai, firing at Salman Khan's residence in Mumbai. (ANI)
A 16-year-old Class 10 student died by suicide at Rajendra Place Metro Station in Delhi. His father alleged that he was driven to despair by relentless harassment from school teachers. According to the FIR registered by Delhi Police on Tuesday, the student had complained to his parents about the teachers' behaviour, but their pleas for help were ignored. On November 18, while his father was away, the Class 10 student left for school, leaving behind a devastating legacy of pain. The parents said they had made several verbal complaints to the teachers and the principal, but the alleged harassment continued. The FIR noted that he allegedly jumped from Platform No. 2 of Rajendra Place Metro Station. Police recovered his school bag from the metro station, which contained a suicide note. The FIR reproduced the contents, where he apologised to his family and wrote that the school teachers had caused him deep distress. He requested that action be taken so that no other child suffers like him. He also mentioned donating his organs, apologised to his parents and brother, and reiterated that teachers were responsible for what happened. The FIR stated that the student had frequently complained about the behaviour of certain teachers. The boy told his parents that some teachers scolded, insulted, and mentally tormented him over minor issues. The parents said they had made several verbal complaints to the teachers and the principal, but the alleged harassment continued. On the day of the incident, the father was away for a family member's medical operation. The FIR notes that the student left for school at 7:15 am. Around 2:45 pm on Tuesday, the father received a call informing him that his son was lying beneath the Rajendra Place Metro Station. He was asked to take the student to a nearby hospital, where he was later declared dead. The police investigation is ongoing, with statements from classmates and teachers being recorded. More details are awaited. (ANI)
Janata Dal (United) supremo Nitish Kumar has staked a claim to form the government in Bihar after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) swept 202 assembly constituencies. He met Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday and tendered his resignation as the Chief Minister. Kumar will return as the Bihar Chief Minister tomorrow for the 10th time after taking oath at Patna's historic Gandhi Maidan, where Jayaprakash Narayan called for "total revolution" during a speech in 1974. Earlier in the day, Kumar was unanimously elected as the legislative leader of the NDA, a day before the swearing-in ceremony. He was also elected leader of the JD(U) legislative party at a meeting held at his residence in Patna. Along with Kumar's deputies Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or [LJP (RV)] chief Chirag Paswan and Bihar Bharatriya Janata Party (BJP) president Dilip Kumar Jaiswal were present on the occasion. The 2025 Bihar assembly elections concluded with the NDA sweeping 202 seats. Of the 202 assembly constituencies, the BJP won 89 seats, and the Nitish Kumar-led Janata Dal (United) won 85. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other prominent leaders of the NDA will attend the swearing-in ceremony, scheduled to be held tomorrow. Various Chief Ministers of NDA-rule states are also expected to attend the ceremony. Amit Shah and BJP national president JP Nadda have already reached Patna ahead of the oath ceremony. Congratulatory greetings from NDA leaders started to pour in after Nitish Kumar's election as the legislative leader of NDA. LJP (RV) leader Sanjay Paswan said, "On behalf of my party and my leader Chirag Paswan, I congratulate Nitish Kumar. I also extend him best wishes. May God bless him with a long life so that he may continue to lead us for a long." Bihar JD(U) president Umesh Singh Kishwaha said, "Oath ceremony will be held tomorrow. NDA leader has been elected. All NDA allies have elected CM Nitish Kumar as the leader of the NDA legislative party." Rashtriya Lok Morcha (RLM) leader Snehlata said that the NDA government will continue to work for women. "Nitish Kumar will be the CM. He will continue to work as he has been doing so far. NDA government has worked for women, and it will continue to do so," she added. LJP (RV) leader Hulas Pande said, "Heartiest congratulations to all the people of Bihar. They gave us immense support. They placed their trust in the double-engine Government of NDA. Bihar elections were fought under the leadership of the CM, and he has been elected as the leader of the NDA legislative party once again." BJP leader Ram Kripal Yadav said, "Nitish Kumar has been unanimously elected as the leader of the NDA legislative party once again. Development is our agenda." BJP leader Prem Kumar said that the NDA government will work to meet people's expectations. "We will work to meet the expectations of people. We believe in doing our work. That is why I have been elected 9 times. NDA has received such a massive mandate in Bihar. There was bumper voting. All sections of society have reposed their faith in the NDA. We will continue doing development work," Kumar told ANI. The NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar assembly polls, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan managed to secure only 35 seats. The ruling alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, marking the second time the NDA crossed the 200-seat mark in state polls. In 2010, it had won 206 seats. In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats. Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat. All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) secured five seats, while the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat. The Bihar assembly elections were held in two phases on November 6 and 11. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13 per cent voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). (ANI)
National Congress Party (Sharadchandra Pawar) MP Supriya Sule on Wednesday addressed a range of issues during a press conference, including the Pune land dispute case, differences within the MVA government, the return of Anmol Bishnoi from the US, and national security concerns. On the Pune land dispute case report, Sule said, "Time will tell. The Chief Minister had said on your own channel that the report will be ready within 30 days. It has only been a week so far; three weeks are left. Let the report come; only then can we comment. I do not have any documents. What we are hearing is only what is on TV and newspapers. It has only been a week so far; three weeks remain. It has given 30 days; only after 30 days can something be said." Maharashtra's Inspector General of Registration (IGR) and Controller of Stamp, Ravindra Binwada, has submitted the report of the high-powered committee formed to probe allegations of irregularities in a Pune land deal involving Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar's son Parth Pawar. According to IGR Binwada, he submitted the report to the Divisional commissioner, who will then compile the reports from the Collector, the Settlement Commissioner, and other related departments, and proceed with further action. The report is regarding alleged irregularities in a Pune land deal involving Amadea Partnership Firm. Further, commenting on Shiv Sena-BJP dissatisfaction and ministers' absence in the cabinet, Sule added, "This is the government's internal matter, but six ministers stay in the ministry and still do not attend meetings, that is a matter of concern. Accountability is necessary in politics. The people of Maharashtra have elected 220 MLAs to form the government. Important decisions are to be made, and ministers are not present; that is not in the interest of the state. It is clear that there are differences among them, which are also visible in the media. Maharashtra is suffering because of this, which is unfortunate. We have been seeing this for 30-40 days. A large mandate of 220 MLAs has been given; they could have delivered good administration, but administration will work only when these fights end." On bringing Anmol Bishnoi, brother of gangster Lawrence Bishnoi, from the US to India, she said, "This matter is of the Home Ministry. Only the Home Ministry will respond to this. Until the ministry gives a statement, it is not right for us to comment on it." Commenting on the right to protest and expression in a democracy, Sule stated, "In a strong democracy, every citizen has the right to speak. The Constitution has given us the right to protest. As I said earlier, the power to speak must also come with the capacity to listen. Their opinion is theirs, our opinion is ours." Regarding the MVA meeting with Sharad Pawar, she said, "Congress senior leaders came to meet Pawar Sahib today. A detailed discussion took place on the current situation. We will meet again to talk. Everything will become clear in the next 8-10 days." On Congress's large front regarding SIR, she said, "As soon as the front starts, Mallikarjun Kharge Ji will discuss everything in detail. There will also be a press conference from the INDI Alliance side." Commenting on the Election Commission's role in the SIR process, she said, "I would like to say with humility, we trusted the Election Commission, trust it, and will continue to trust it. But the way the image is being created on TV and newspapers, it is harmful for democracy and is worrisome." (ANI)
VANCOUVER, BC, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Aris Mining Corporation (Aris Mining or the Company) (TSX: ARIS) (NYSE-A: ARMN) announces that it has entered into a Settlement and Termination Agreement (the Settlement Agreement) with the Republic of Colombia, represented by the National Agency for Legal Defense of the State (ANDJE), to end the arbitration proceeding brought under the Canada-Colombia Free Trade Agreement (ICSID Case No. ARB/18/23).

The arbitration was originally initiated in May 2018 by Gran Colombia Gold Corp. (renamed GCM Mining) before the International Centre for Settlement of Investment Disputes (ICSID), an institution of the World Bank Group, and included a request for a cash award for alleged damages. Following Aris Mining's formation through the merger of GCM Mining and Aris Gold in September 2022, Aris Mining continued the process but engaged with the Government of Colombia to pursue a constructive, cooperative solution.

Neil Woodyer, CEO of Aris Mining, commented: "We are very pleased to have resolved this complex matter through discussion and cooperation rather than arbitration. By electing not to continue the legacy cash claim from 2018, and with both parties agreeing to suspend the arbitration process to explore constructive solutions, this settlement reflects the success of a collaborative approach. Importantly, this is the first agreement of its kind in Colombia to resolve an investor-state arbitration. It demonstrates our shared commitment with the Government of Colombia to work together to enhance security, promote responsible mining practices, and support sustainable development in the communities where we operate. Aris Mining appreciates the constructive engagement of ANDJE and the government entities that participated in these discussions."

Key elements of the settlement:

The parties have terminated the ICSID arbitration and settled the claims submitted to this case.

No cash payments were required or contemplated as part of the settlement reflecting an agreement structured on the exchange of performance obligations rather than financial consideration.

The material terms of settlement are: the entry into three "Pillar Agreements" that include performance obligations on the part of each of Aris Mining, the Republic of Colombia and relevant Colombian regulatory agencies in respect of formalization in the Marmato area, and collaborative initiatives with the National Police and Ministry of Defence; engagement with the Attorney General's Office to support ongoing legal and enforcement processes that protect the Company's operations and workforce; cooperation commitments from CORPOCALDAS, the Caldas regional environmental authority for Marmato, to oversee compliance of formalized mining operations in the Cerro El Burro area with applicable mining regulations and permits, and to exercise its enforcement powers, including imposing fines, sanctions, and precautionary measures where necessary; and each party assuming responsibility for their own costs associated with the arbitration and its settlement.

The "Pillar Agreements", jointly developed by Aris Mining, and the Government of Colombia are:

1. Agreement for Mining Formalization and Sustainable Territorial Development in the Marmato area with the Ministry of Mines and Energy and the National Mining Agency.

2. Collaboration and Cooperation Agreement with the National Police.

3. Collaboration Agreement with the Ministry of Defense.

The Settlement Agreement and associated Pillar Agreements will remain in effect for a ten-year term and will be overseen by a Joint Representatives Committee comprising delegates from Aris Mining and ANDJE to ensure effective implementation.

About Aris Mining

Founded in September 2022, Aris Mining was established with a vision to build a leading South America-focused gold mining company. Our strategy blends current production and cashflow generation with transformational growth driven by expansions of our operating assets, exploration, and development projects. Aris Mining intends to unlock value through scale and diversification. The Company is listed on the TSX (ARIS) and the NYSE-A (ARMN) and is led by an experienced team with a track record of value creation, operational excellence, financial discipline and good corporate governance in the gold mining industry.

Aris Mining operates two underground gold mines in Colombia: the Segovia Operations and the Marmato Complex, which together produced 210,955 ounces of gold in 2024. With expansions underway, Aris Mining is targeting an annual production rate of more than 500,000 ounces of gold, driven by the commissioning of a second mill at Segovia, completed in June and ramping up during H2 2025, and the construction of the Bulk Mining Zone at the Marmato Complex, with first gold expected in H2 2026.

In Guyana, Aris Mining owns the Toroparu gold project, where a new Preliminary Economic Assessment has been completed and a Prefeasibility Study is in progress. Following completion of the PFS, Toroparu will be positioned to advance toward construction.

Aris Mining also holds a 51% interest in the Soto Norte joint venture, where a Prefeasibility Study has been completed on a smaller-scale development plan confirming Soto Norte as a high-grade, long-life project with strong economics and industry-leading environmental and social design features. Environmental studies are being finalized, which are scheduled to be submitted in the first half of 2026 to initiate the licensing process.

Additional information on Aris Mining can be found at www.aris-mining.com, www.sedarplus.ca, and on www.sec.gov.

Forward-Looking Information

This news release contains "forward-looking information" or forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Canadian securities legislation. All statements included herein, other than statements of historical fact, including, without limitation, statements regarding the resolution of the ICSID arbitration, the effect, timing and effect of the Settlement Agreement and corresponding Pillar Agreements, and statements included in the "About Aris Mining" section of this news release relating to the Segovia Operations, Marmato Complex, Soto Norte Project and Toroparu Project are forward-looking. Generally, the forward-looking information and forward looking statements can be identified by the use of forward looking terminology such as "plans", "expects" or "does not expect", "is expected", "budget", "scheduled", "estimates", "forecasts", "intends", "anticipates" or "does not anticipate", "will continue" or "believes", or variations of such words and phrases or state that certain actions, events or results "may", "could", "would", "might" or "will be taken", "occur" or "be achieved". The material factors or assumptions used to develop forward looking information or statements are disclosed throughout this news release.

Forward looking information and forward looking statements, while based on management's best estimates and assumptions, are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors that may cause the actual results, level of activity, performance or achievements of Aris Mining to be materially different from those expressed or implied by such forward-looking information or forward looking statements, including but not limited to those factors discussed in the section entitled "Risk Factors" in Aris Mining's annual information form dated March 12, 2025 which is available on SEDAR+ at www.sedarplus.ca and included as part of the Company's Annual report on Form 40-F, filed with the SEC at www.sec.gov.

Although Aris Mining has attempted to identify important factors that could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in forward-looking information and forward-looking statements, there may be other factors that cause results not to be as anticipated, estimated or intended. There can be no assurance that such information or statements will prove to be accurate, as actual results and future events could differ materially from those anticipated in such information or statements. The Company has and continues to disclose in its Management's Discussion and Analysis and other publicly filed documents, changes to material factors or assumptions underlying the forward-looking information and forward-looking statements and to the validity of the information, in the period the changes occur. The forward-looking statements and forward-looking information are made as of the date hereof and Aris Mining disclaims any obligation to update any such factors or to publicly announce the result of any revisions to any of the forward-looking statements or forward-looking information contained herein to reflect future results. Accordingly, readers should not place undue reliance on forward-looking statements and information.

SOURCE Aris Mining Corporation
Congress leader Jairam Ramesh on Wednesday said that the party is likely to demand a discussion during the winter session of Parliament on repeated statements of US President Donald Trump on mediating a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and also on trade agreements and issues with China. Jairam Ramesh said that the government has convened an all-party meeting on November 30 ahead of the start of the winter session. He accused the government of failing to fulfil its commitments made at the all-party meeting. "An all-party meeting has been called on November 30, chaired by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. We will definitely demand that the US President's statements, trade agreements, and issues of China be addressed in the meeting. But this session, which is only for 15 days, is a formality. I do not know what the government is going to do because the government says one thing in the all-party meeting and does something else," Jairam Ramesh told ANI. He also launched a sharp attack on the Modi government over US President Donald Trump's repeated claims that he mediated a ceasefire between India and Pakistan during Operation Sindoor and asked why Prime Minister Narendra Modi does not "openly say that President Trump is wrong". Jairam Ramesh also said that he does not see any clarity on the trade deal with the United States, and India is reducing its oil imports from Russia due to pressure from Trump. The Congress leader said PM Modi does not miss an opportunity to defame Congress but is silent on Trump's remarks. "Yesterday evening at the White House, US President Trump reiterated for the sixtieth time, when Saudi Arabia's Prince Mohammed bin Salman was also with him, that because of me, a war between India and Pakistan was prevented. India had to stop Operation Sindoor, and our Prime Minister is silent," the Congress leader told ANI. "Our Prime Minister does not miss an opportunity to defame the Congress. He lashes out at Congress and defames our leaders and when President Trump says sixty times that Operation Sindoor was stopped because of me, because I used the trade agreement as a weapon, yet our Prime Minister remains silent. I don't understand why he is afraid; why doesn't he openly say that President Trump is wrong?" he asked. India and Pakistan agreed to end hostilities during Op Sindoor after Pakistan's DGMO called his Indian counterpart. Replying to a question on negotiations for the Bilateral Trade Agreement, Jairam Ramesh said the Commerce and Industry Minister has said that 90 per cent work has been done but there is no clarity. "I don't see any clarity on the trade deal. Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has also said that 90% of the work has been done. One thing is clear: the amount of oil we used to buy from Russia, we are reducing that number, because of the pressure of US President Trump," he said. (ANI)
Shah was welcomed by BJP National President JP Nadda, Bihar BJP President Dilip Jaiswal and other leaders at the airport.

Janata Dal (United) supremo Nitish Kumar has staked a claim to form the government in Bihar after the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) swept 202 assembly constituencies.

He met Bihar Governor Arif Mohammad Khan on Wednesday and tendered his resignation as the Chief Minister.

Kumar will return as the Bihar Chief Minister today for the 10th time after taking oath at Patna's historic Gandhi Maidan, where Jayaprakash Narayan called for "total revolution" during a speech in 1974.

Earlier in the day, Kumar was unanimously elected as the legislative leader of the NDA, a day before the swearing-in ceremony.

He was also elected leader of the JD(U) legislative party at a meeting held at his residence in Patna.

Along with Kumar's deputies Samrat Choudhary and Vijay Kumar Sinha, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) or [LJP (RV)] chief Chirag Paswan and Bihar Bharatriya Janata Party (BJP) president Dilip Kumar Jaiswal were present on the occasion.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Union Home Minister Amit Shah and other prominent leaders of the NDA will attend the swearing-in ceremony, scheduled to be held tomorrow.

Various Chief Ministers of NDA-rule states are also expected to attend the ceremony. Amit Shah and BJP national president JP Nadda have already reached Patna ahead of the oath ceremony.

The NDA registered a historic landslide victory in the 2025 Bihar assembly polls, winning 202 of the 243 seats, while the Mahagathbandhan managed to secure only 35 seats. The ruling alliance secured a three-fourths majority in the 243-member Bihar Assembly, marking the second time the NDA crossed the 200-seat mark in state polls. In 2010, it had won 206 seats.

In the NDA, the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) won 89 seats, Janata Dal (United) won 85, Lok Janshakti Party (Ram Vilas) (LJPRV) won 19, Hindustani Awam Morcha (Secular) (HAMS) won five, and Rashtriya Lok Morcha won four seats.

Among opposition parties, the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) won 25 seats, the Indian National Congress six, the Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) (Liberation) [CPI(ML)(L)] two, the Indian Inclusive Party (IIP) one, and the Communist Party of India (Marxist) [CPI(M)] one seat.

All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) secured five seats, while the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) won one seat.

The Bihar assembly elections were held in two phases on November 6 and 11. Bihar recorded a historic 67.13 per cent voter turnout, the highest since 1951, with women voters outpacing men (71.6% vs 62.8%). (ANI)
Indian Air Force Wing Commander Tejeshwar Singh of the Surya Kiran aerobatics team said that representing India at the Dubai Air Show 2025 was a great honour, as the team showcased its professionalism and flying skills on a global stage. Speaking to ANI, the Wing Commander said, "It was a great privilege and honour to represent India on a global platform like the Dubai Air Show 2025. It is a great opportunity for us to show our competence as an Air Force. We do not just represent the Tricolour but also the professional grit and determination of each one of us back home. It is a great feeling and a matter of honour." The Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team (SKAT) stunned with its manoeuvres and aerobatics during the second day of the Dubai Airshow, as it did during the first day of the airshow at Dubai Al Maktoum airport. Additionally, the Indian Air Force performed with the LCA Tejas, pulling high manoeuvres during its flying display. The static display of Tejas also drew a large audience, who adored the jet. Earlier, Vice Chief of Air Staff (VCAS) Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari said the Indian Air Force (IAF) expects strong interest from foreign buyers in the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas at the Dubai Air Show 2025. Speaking at the India Pavilion, he said India's participation is about the growing defence cooperation between the two countries at multiple levels. Air Marshal Tiwari told ANI, "We sent the Tejas as well as the Surya Kiran Aerobatics Team on the request of the UAE authorities. We have an excellent cooperation with them, both at the strategic level as well as the service level." He also noted that the Tejas had participated in the Dubai Air Show earlier and had drawn global attention during its previous displays. "Tejas has come here and participated before. The interest shown was tremendous. We are expecting that the display this year also will cater to great expectations, not only for the local population but also for the visitors, to at least showcase the capabilities of the aircraft," he said. India is buying close to 200 Tejas aircraft, and the Vice Chief said this scale of induction also sends a strong message to international partners. "Just as we are buying almost 200 of these platforms, I am sure it will generate great interest here," he added. The Air Force contingent landed at Al Maktoum Airbase for the Dubai Air Show on Saturday. The event is being held from November 17 to 21, and over 100 Air Forces are participating. The event, as per a prior IAF statement, is aimed at enhancing interoperability and operational edge, and at fostering military and business cooperation. (ANI)
At the gracious request of the Royal Government of Bhutan, the sacred exposition of the Holy Relics of Lord Buddha from India, which has been underway in Thimphu, has been officially extended for one week. The exposition, which has drawn thousands of devout pilgrims, will now continue until November 25, a release from the Ministry of Culture said. To facilitate the return of the Holy Relics, a special aircraft will depart for Bhutan on November 24. The sacred relics will be brought back to India on November 25. The delegation for this significant closing ceremony will be led by the Union Minister of Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs, Kiren Rijiju. The extension underscores the deep cultural and spiritual bonds between India and Bhutan and reflects the immense public reverence the exposition has received in Bhutan. The people of Bhutan's overwhelming devotion is a testament to our shared spiritual heritage. The Ministry of Culture, is honoured to accede to Bhutan's request, allowing more devotees to seek blessings. This event has further strengthened the timeless ties of friendship and mutual respect between our two nations. The exposition has been a landmark event in India-Bhutan relations, celebrating a shared Buddhist heritage and reinforcing the special bonds of trust and cooperation. (ANI)
The US Senate on Tuesday (local time) unanimously agreed to pass the bipartisan, House-backed bill requiring the Department of Justice to make the Epstein Files public, CNN reported. With the Senate's approval, no further action is needed in the chamber. The bill will now be sent directly to President Donald Trump for his signature to become law. Earlier, the US House of Representatives on Tuesday (local time) passed a bipartisan bill requiring the US Department of Justice to release all case files related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein, according to CNN. The measure passed with overwhelming support, winning a 427-1 vote, with only Republican Rep. Clay Higgins of Louisiana casting a dissenting vote. The legislation, which has garnered support from both Republican and Democratic lawmakers, seeks to provide full transparency for the public and justice for Epstein's abuse survivors. Republican Representatives Thomas Massie and Marjorie Taylor Greene held a press conference earlier today on Capitol Hill, urging their colleagues to support the bill, CNN reported. During the briefing, several survivors of Epstein's abuse shared their stories, underscoring the need for the files' release. US President Donald Trump has also expressed his support for the bill, urging House Republicans to back it. In a rare reversal, Trump publicly called on Congress to pass the measure, pledging to sign it into law if it reached his desk, CNN reported. However, Democratic Representative Robert Garcia criticised the Trump administration for failing to release the files earlier. Garcia pointed out that the president has the authority to release the documents immediately, without needing congressional approval. "I want to remind the president as well that he has the power to release the files today. He has the power to release the files without a vote," Garcia said at the press conference, as quoted by CNN. As the Epstein case continues to unfold, the House vote comes at a time when the nation's attention is divided between the fight for transparency and the broader political landscape. (ANI)
Sajeeb Wazed, son of Bangladesh's ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, has spoken against the Bangladesh government's extradition request sent to India, calling it "illegal" and expressing confidence that New Delhi will not act on it. Speaking to ANI, Wazed said, "I think they (the Indian government) know very well how to handle this extradition request. I don't think the Indian government is going to respond to such an illegal request. I have faith in the Indian democracy and its belief in the rule of law." Wazed also warned India about developments in Bangladesh under the new regime. "What should really concern India is propping up the Yunus regime. It is Jamaat-e-Islam, which is the largest Islamic party. They have released tens of thousands of terrorists that our government had convicted and sentenced to prison. They've released them," he said. He further alleged that extremist groups are operating more freely than before. "Lashkar-e-Taiba is operating freely now," he said, adding that the group has been linked to violence beyond Bangladesh. "Links have been found to their branch in Bangladesh for the recent terror attacks in Delhi." "Prime Minister Modi is probably very concerned about terrorism from Bangladesh right now," he said. Bangladesh International Crimes Tribunal on Monday sentenced Sheikh Hasina and her close aide, former Home Minister Asaduzzaman Khan, to death, while a third accused, former police chief Chowdhury Abdullah al-Mamun, was given a five-year jail term because he had turned a state witness of committing "crimes against humanity" during the July-August uprising in 2024. Hasina responded to the verdict made against her, that the decision made by a rigged tribunal established and presided over by an unelected government had no democratic mandate. Earlier, the Ministry of External Affairs said that India has taken note of the verdict announced by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh" concerning Sheikh Hasina and said that India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh. The statement read, "India has noted the verdict announced by the "International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh" concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country. We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end." (ANI)
Singh, a 1996-batch officer of the Indian Foreign Service, is currently serving as Additional Secretary in the Ministry.

In its official statement, the MEA said, "Charanjeet Singh (IFS: 1996), presently Additional Secretary in the Ministry, has been appointed as the next Ambassador/PR of India to the UN Conference on Disarmament, Geneva."

The Ministry added that Singh will assume his new role soon. "He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," the MEA said. (ANI)
After the ousted Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina was convicted of "crimes against humanity" in Bangladesh and sentenced to death, her son, Sajeeb Wazed, has questioned the "legitimacy" of Muhammad Yunus-led interim government in Dhaka, which has been holding on to power without elections and "zero popular support". Speaking to ANI, Wazed argued that a leader with public support would not avoid elections. "... If Muhammad Yunus was popular, then why would he not have just held an election and then run the country with legitimacy. He has held on to power for a year and a half without holding an election because he has absolutely zero popular support. The political party the students formed, the NCP (National Citizen Party), is polling at 2% in all the polls run in Bangladesh. They've never gone above 2% popularity. Yunus and the student party have almost no popularity, so they've held on to power without an election...," he said. Wazed accused Dhaka of shifting Bangladesh's foreign policy sharply towards China. "Our government's policy was to have friendly relations with all countries. We pursued trade relations with China, India and the US... The Yunus regime has been trying to get much closer to China. They've had prominent state visits to China. Even our opposition, BNP, has been making direct overtures to China... For us, the Belt and Road Initiative was simply an economic initiative to facilitate transportation..." Speaking about the recent verdict in which a Bangladeshi court convicted Sheikh Hasina, Wazed claimed the process was politically motivated and undemocratic. "There was some mishandling of the protests initially. The protests turned violent. Our government tried to stop the protests. There was certainly political motivation to it. There has been an unelected government in power for the last 1.5 years. Everything has been done undemocratically. ...tens and thousands of political prisoners... currently over 100 Members of Parliament are held as political prisoners with no investigation or trials. At this point, it is definitely a political coup..." On November 17, Bangladesh's International Crimes Tribunal convicted the 78-year-old former prime minister of "crimes against humanity" linked to the July-August 2024 uprising. The tribunal found Hasina and two senior officials guilty of ordering or enabling atrocities during the protests. According to a UN human rights report released in February, nearly 1,400 people were killed in just 46 days of the Bangladesh protests. The protests that eventually ousted Bangladesh's longest-serving Prime Minister, Sheikh Hasina, began in early July and were led by student groups. As demonstrations intensified, large crowds of student protesters stormed Hasina's official residence in Dhaka amid reports of widespread looting and violent clashes. These scenes unfolded after weeks of anti-government unrest, which ultimately pushed Hasina to resign and flee the country, seeking exile in India. Earlier this week, local media reported that the tribunal delivered the verdict in absentia, as Hasina has been living in India since the fall of her government. (ANI)
Rawalpindi [Pakistan], November 19 (ANI) A severe flour shortage is expected to grip Rawalpindi Division and Islamabad, as a PKR 550 hike per wheat bag and the suspension of wheat movement permits threaten to choke supply across the twin cities, flour mills warn that distribution may halt entirely due to the government's sudden and unexplained decisions, as reported by The Express Tribune. According to The Express Tribune, an urgent meeting convened to address the crisis, senior leaders of the Pakistan Flour Mills Association (PFMA) sharply criticised the authorities for creating instability instead of resolving long-standing issues. The session, chaired by Chief Patron Tariq Sadiq and attended by PFMA Punjab Chairman Riazullah Khan and central figure Raza Ahmad Shah, focused on what attendees called "misguided interventions" by the Punjab Food Department. The Association argued that while federal and provincial administrations speak of revenue reform and economic recovery, their actions at the ground level only worsen the situation. Flour- and wheat-loaded vehicles are being intercepted across Punjab by officials from the Food Department and allied paramilitary personnel. These teams reportedly detain trucks, impose hefty penalties, and seize goods. The Association has accused officers of subsequently offloading confiscated flour and maida at government-designated prices through internal collusion, calling the practice unethical and intolerable. Wheat permits are allegedly suspended on vague claims, and a newly imposed cap renders a single vehicle's load impossible to transport. The mills demand that, since their wheat is procured privately without state subsidy, permit allocations must reflect actual operational needs. Mills insist on the right to ship flour produced from privately purchased wheat to other provinces without administrative hurdles, as cited by The Express Tribune. Owners protested the constant presence of police and civil defence officials stationed at mills "as if we are criminals." They demanded the immediate withdrawal of these security personnel. The PFMA warned that Rawalpindi mills will be unable to lift LDC wheat or maintain market supplies unless the government reverses these actions. The unfolding deadlock could trigger a major flour crisis in the region, as reported by The Express Tribune. (ANI)
Road blockages, curfews, and continuous internet suspensions have brought daily life to a halt in several parts of Balochistan, creating widespread displacement, disrupting services, and deepening uncertainty. Residents from Zehri stated that a sweeping curfew has emptied entire neighbourhoods, forcing hundreds of families to flee. They alleged that Pakistani security forces fire at anyone seen outside after 5 pm, as reported by The Balochistan Post. According to The Balochistan Post, locals estimate that around 500 families have escaped in recent days, leaving crops unharvested and livestock unattended. Some accused the forces of setting up multiple camps and ordering families to vacate their homes, while others reported a hotel struck by mortar fire, shops burned, and traders forcibly disappeared. In Quetta, residents said the city has transformed into a tightly controlled security zone, with key routes blocked or heavily restricted without prior announcements. Many criticised the government of Chief Minister Sarfraz Bugti, saying it has shifted the consequences of its governance failures onto the public. Traffic gridlocks have worsened on routes leading to courts, hospitals and administrative offices, and restrictions around Hali Road and Model Town areas near the Chief Minister's House have added to the paralysis. Train services connecting Quetta with Karachi, Lahore and Peshawar remain suspended, while passenger buses were briefly banned ahead of Baloch Martyrs' Day before the decision was partially reversed. Mobile internet has been suspended for a seventh consecutive day across numerous districts, and officials say the shutdown may be extended further. Authorities cite escalating security threats, but residents, students, businesses and journalists say the blackout has severely obstructed their work. In Gwadar, a sudden ban on oil-transport vehicles has hit drivers hard, cutting off what they described as one of their last remaining sources of income. They say border trade routes were already closed, and the new restrictions have pushed them deeper into unemployment, as highlighted by The Balochistan Post. Opposition lawmakers argue that these sweeping controls show a government losing grip rather than restoring order, warning that continued shutdowns, movement restrictions and worsening insecurity are driving the province toward a larger crisis, as reported by The Balochistan Post. (ANI)
Leader in enterprise revenue lifecycle management reports 187% growth driven by large enterprise client wins, AI product innovation and continued industry recognition

DENVER, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BillingPlatform , the enterprise revenue lifecycle management platform for today's most innovative business models, today announced its inclusion on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech and energy tech companies in North America. BillingPlatform grew 187% over the previous three-year period.

Over the past year, BillingPlatform continued to innovate its product set and embrace the power of AI to enhance its capabilities and empower users. Last month, the company announced its AI Monetization offering, designed to help AI companies capitalize on consumption-based business models. It also launched RevenueIQ  a comprehensive AI suite designed to transform how accounting teams analyze, plan and operate businesses. Additionally, the company introduced BP Pay to redefine payment processing with seamless interoperability across the revenue lifecycle, and BP E-Invoice to streamline compliance and accelerate payments to automate the creation, delivery and tracking of invoices.

"Despite a turbulent economy, especially over the last year, we couldn't be prouder of our consistent growth and being recognized on the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 listing for six years running," said Dennis Wall, CEO of BillingPlatform. "Our continued success is driven by our team's amazing ability to innovate in the age of AI, which has helped transform BillingPlatform into an even more powerful solution that helps our customers optimize their business processes and uncover new financial insights and revenue streams."

"This year's rankings highlight both enduring leadership and breakthrough momentum," said Wolfe Tone, U.S. Deloitte private and emerging client portfolio leader and partner, Deloitte Tax LLP. "More than half of the winners are prior honorees, yet the majority of the top ten are first-time entrants  demonstrating the staying power of established leaders alongside the accelerating growth of new innovators across key sectors. As in previous years, private companies continue to dominate, underscoring the agility that private enterprises bring to competitive markets, enabling the exceptional triple and quadruple digit growth reflected in these rankings."

BillingPlatform has been ranked as a Technology Fast 500 award winner for six consecutive years. Overall, 2025 Technology Fast 500 companies achieved revenue growth ranging from 122% to 29,738% over the three-year time frame, with an average growth rate of 1,079%.

BillingPlatform is Trusted by Industry Analysts

BillingPlatform has earned many recent accolades, including being named a Leader in the 2025 Gartner Magic Quadrant for Recurring Billing Applications , being recognized as the Leader in Forrester Research's "The Forrester Wave: Recurring Billing Solutions, Q1 2025," evaluated with the highest overall rating in the MGI 360 Ratings Report for Agile Billing , ranked as Top Vendor and Overall Leader in the 2025 ISG Revenue Recognition Buyers Guide , the leader in QKS Group's SPARK Matrix Report for Subscription & SaaS Billing Management , and positioned as an Automated Revenue Management Market Leader by MGI Research . The company was also awarded the IDC 2024 SaaS Award for Customer Satisfaction in Subscription Management , listed on the Inc. 5000 and recognized by the SIIA CODiE Awards program as the Best Subscription Billing Solution.

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

About BillingPlatform

BillingPlatform empowers businesses with innovative software solutions to optimize revenue generation through every stage of the customer lifecycle, powering growth through operational agility along with a frictionless customer experience. Our industry-leading, AI-powered platform is leveraged by global enterprises to optimize the customer journey from idea to revenue. With global customers across multiple industries, including software, finance, media, transportation, and communications, BillingPlatform processes billions of transactions and dollars every year, enabling enterprises to grow revenue, reduce costs and improve overall customer experience. To learn more, visit www.billingplatform.com .

Press Contact:

Doug Broad

BillingPlatform

[email protected]

Correction: An earlier version of this release had an incorrect URL for Deloitte Technology Fast 500 in the first paragraph.

SOURCE BillingPlatform
Lahore [Pakistan], November 19 (ANI) Dengue has gripped large parts of Punjab, especially the southern belt, while internal accounts suggest that fatalities caused by the virus are taking place but are allegedly being kept off the books by the provincial health machinery. Several insiders claim that authorities are intentionally downplaying the true scale of the outbreak through underreporting, as reported by Dawn. According to Dawn, Multan and Faisalabad are reportedly facing the most alarming situation. The sharp rise in infections there has contradicted the health department's earlier claims that dengue was "fully under control." Medical workers in South Punjab confirm that the number of dengue-positive patients has multiplied nearly tenfold in recent weeks. Doctors and senior public-health experts allege that numerous dengue-related deaths have occurred in Multan's major government hospitals. However, officials responsible for reporting these fatalities were allegedly instructed not to log them onto the dengue dashboard. A health specialist stated that district commissioners and CEOs of district health authorities are exerting pressure on field officers to conceal both deaths and rising positivity figures. Referring to the recent case of a young guard, Mohammad Imran, experts claim the diagnostic process was deliberately delayed. The NS1 test, crucial within the initial days of fever, was sent for analysis on the ninth day, ensuring a likely negative result. WHO guidelines state that NS1 sensitivity drops sharply after a week, meaning a negative report cannot rule out dengue. Other tests later confirmed Imran as dengue-positive. He passed away after severe internal bleeding as his platelet count fell to a dangerously low 6,000. Dengue wards in Nishtar Hospital and district headquarters facilities in Multan are overflowing, forcing doctors to shift patients to general medical units, as cited by Dawn. Meanwhile, the Dengue Expert Advisory Group (DEAG) has formally warned the government of "serious lapses" in prevention and surveillance. DEAG Chairperson Prof Dr Muhammad Khurram noted that dengue cases are rising sharply in Multan, Faisalabad, Kasur, Sahiwal, Rahim Yar Khan and Attock, urging immediate intervention. Experts argue that anti-dengue operations were launched far too late, calling it a glaring administrative failure that warrants urgent inquiry, as reported by Dawn. (ANI)
Tel Aviv [Israel], November 19 (ANI/TPS): The Bank of Israel launched a nationwide campaign on Wednesday to boost public awareness of financial fraud, amid a continued rise in digital scams targeting Israelis. The effort is led through the Financial Education Forum, which includes the Banks Association, commercial banks and credit card companies. The new campaign will run across television, radio and digital platforms, offering guidance on spotting common online fraud schemes and ways to protect personal information. In December, the forum will also hold online and in-person lectures in Hebrew, Arabic and Russian, in cooperation with the Israel Police. The initiative builds on years of outreach, including hundreds of lectures and media campaigns since the forum's establishment in 2016. (ANI/TPS)
Taiwan's Foreign Affairs and National Defence Committee today approved a motion put forward by the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) condemning China's decision to open a criminal investigation into DPP lawmaker Puma Shen, a move widely viewed in Taiwan as another example of China extending its political reach across the Taiwan Strait. The motion directly rebukes China's widening attempts to criminalise Taiwanese political activity, as reported by The Taipei Times. According to The Taipei Times, the resolution criticised the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) for listing Shen as a "wanted" figure under the Chongqing Municipal Public Security Bureau, accusing him of "secessionist crimes" simply for participating in civic and political work in Taiwan. The DPP-led committee emphasised that regardless of internal political diversity, every Taiwanese citizen's security and freedom of expression are protected by the Constitution of the Republic of China, making Beijing's claims to legal authority entirely baseless. The motion, initiated by DPP legislator Wang Ting-yu and supported by four additional DPP lawmakers, passed unanimously. It further asserted that the CCP "has no jurisdiction" over the people of Taiwan, a point lawmakers said should be made unequivocally clear amid increasing pressure from Beijing. The move reflects a growing legislative push to counter Beijing's cross-border intimidation tactics. The controversy stems from a report released last month by China's state-run Xinhua News Agency, which accused Shen of multiple "criminal activities," including founding the civil defence initiative Kuma Academy. Chinese authorities claim the investigation is being carried out under the country's Criminal Law and new judicial guidelines introduced last year targeting individuals Beijing labels as "Taiwan independence separatists," as highlighted by The Taipei Times. Days later, a Chinese legal commentator told state broadcaster CCTV that Shen should be pursued through Interpol and other international judicial cooperation channels, a stance observers described as dangerous political overreach. A similar DPP-proposed motion was introduced during a Legislative Yuan plenary session last week, but has yet to move forward. Lawmakers say China's actions are part of a broader pattern aimed at pressuring Taiwan's democratic institutions, as reported by The Taipei Times. (ANI)
Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong is set to visit India on Wednesday for the 16th Australia-India Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue and her 26th meeting with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar. During her visit, discussions would take place on cooperation across cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime security, defence, sport, and people-to-people ties. In her official statement, Wong said, "Australia and India have never been closer and our partnership never more consequential - it is crucial for us and crucial for the region in a sharper and more competitive world." She highlighted that her visit builds on the high momentum of the series of engagements between India and Australia, and "reflects the ongoing work of the Albanese Government to deepen our relationships and strengthen our resilience." Penny Wong noted that the cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects the deepening alignment and shared vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. "I look forward to discussions with my counterpart and friend, Minister for External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar, to set the course for an even more ambitious, future-focused agenda, as our partnership enters its next phase. We will look to enhance our cooperation across cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime security, defence, sport, and people-to-people ties." The Australian Foreign Minister further noted, "Together, Australia and India are working bilaterally, through the Quad, and through multilateral institutions to advance our collective security and prosperity." The high-level interaction comes shortly after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid a visit to Australia in October. He held delegation-level talks with Wong and had also met Australia's Prime Minister Anthony Albanese during his visit, hailing the fillip towards the bilateral relationship. Upon meeting Rajnath Singh, the Australian PM underscored how India and Australia's defence partnership is built on trust, shared interests and a commitment to a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. India and Australia inked key defence agreements during the visit of the Defence Minister. Australia's Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles has described the newly signed defence agreement with India as a "hugely significant step" in strengthening the operational partnership between the two nations' armed forces. (ANI)
President Donald Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia have finalised finalised a series of "landmark agreements" that deepen the US-Saudi "strategic partnership," expand opportunities for high-paying American jobs, strengthen critical supply chains, and reinforce regional stability, "all while putting American workers, industry, and security first," the White House said. President Trump also approved a major defence sale package, "including future F-35 deliveries, which strengthens the US defence industrial base and ensures Saudi Arabia continues to buy American. The President secured an agreement for Saudi Arabia to purchase nearly 300 American tanks, enabling Saudi Arabia to build up its own defence capabilities and safeguarding hundreds of American jobs," the White House said in a statement Crown Prince Salman's announcement of USD 1 trillion in the United States marks a sharp rise from the USD 600 billion pledge made during President Donald Trump's visit to Riyadh earlier this year, as per the White House. A key outcome of the meetings was the Joint Declaration on Civil Nuclear Energy Cooperation, which lays the foundation for a decades-long, multi-billion-dollar nuclear energy partnership with the Saudi Kingdom. The agreement confirms that US companies will be Saudi Arabia's preferred partners for nuclear energy projects, while ensuring all cooperation follows strict non-proliferation standards. The White House described the deal as a major step in securing America's leadership in global energy technology. Washington and Riyadh also signed a Critical Minerals Framework to diversify and secure mineral supply chains. This agreement builds on similar deals President Trump secured with other trading partners to safeguard America's supply chain resilience for essential minerals, as per White House. Another significant agreement was a landmark AI Memorandum of Understanding, which grants Saudi Arabia access to top-tier American artificial intelligence systems while placing safeguards to prevent foreign misuse of US technology. President Trump and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman also signed the US-Saudi Strategic Defence Agreement (SDA), aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and enhancing regional deterrence. The deal includes arrangements designed to boost the US defence industrial base and makes it easier for US defence firms to operate in Saudi Arabia In the statement, the White House wrote, "The SDA is a win for the America First agenda, making it easier for US defence firms to operate in Saudi Arabia, securing new burden-sharing funds from Saudi Arabia to defray US costs, and affirming that the Kingdom views the United States as its primary strategic partner. The President secured agreements reinforcing America's role as a regional security enabler, enhancing our US military partnerships to better allow partners to deter and defeat threats." The White House confirmed approval of a major defence package that includes future deliveries of F-35 fighter jets and the Saudi purchase of nearly 300 US-made tanks. The White House added, "The President secured an agreement for Saudi Arabia to purchase nearly 300 American tanks, enabling Saudi Arabia to build up its own defence capabilities and safeguarding hundreds of American jobs". The administration said the full package of agreements, spanning nuclear energy, defence, critical minerals, AI, and financial cooperation, will significantly expand market access for American businesses. The United States and Saudi Arabia will also intensify work in the coming weeks to reduce non-tariff barriers and improve the investment environment. Earlier, the Saudi leader received a reception befitting a head of state, with an Army-mounted honour guard, a military flyover of six planes, and cannon salutes on the White House South Lawn as he arrived at the White House. Trump then walked his guest along the newly created "Presidential Walk of Fame" outside the West Wing before the two walked into the Oval Office."We have an extremely respected man in the Oval Office today, and a friend of mine for a long time," Trump said during the welcoming ceremony. Inside the Oval Office, the crown prince indicated Saudi Arabia's willingness to join the Abraham Accords, the 2020 agreement that normalised ties between Israel and several Arab nations. However, the Middle Eastern leader made clear this would be conditional on progress towards Palestinian statehood. "We want to be part of the accord, but we also want to be sure that we secure a clear path to a two-state solution," the crown prince said. "We want them to coexist peacefully in the region, and we will do our best to reach a deal." In a potentially significant shift, Trump announced plans to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, ending Israel's exclusive access to the aircraft in the region. The move could alter the military balance in the Middle East, though the US has long maintained a policy commitment to Israel's "qualitative military edge" over regional neighbours. (ANI)
Australia is strengthening its education ties with India, showcasing its vocational education expertise at DIDAC India 2025. Austrade Trade and Investment (Austrade) Commissioner Vik Singh highlights the country's commitment to skill development, with 24 companies and 35 delegates participating. Vik Singh said this was the first time the Australian government, along with its state and territory partners, had participated in DIDAC. The event expects 40,000 attendees and offers a platform for Australian and Indian institutions to collaborate. Singh emphasised India's potential as a scaling capital, with Australia as a key partner. The focus is on co-creating solutions for a better-skilled India, investing in vocational education and training. Speaking to ANI on the sidelines of the DIDAC India and DIDAC Skills 2025 event in Delhi, Singh said, "This is the first time that the Australian government is doing DIDAC along with our state and territory partners. It's a wonderful experience to be here. I believe there's going to be 40,000 people that will walk through the doors at DIDAC over the next five days." Australia's TAFE system and ed-tech companies are exploring partnerships with Indian counterparts, aiming to enhance skill development and economic growth. The collaboration seeks to address India's ambitious goals, fostering innovation and progress. DIDAC India is an annual international exhibition and conference focused on educational resources and technology for the education and skills sectors, considered the largest event of its kind in Asia. "It is really an investment in skills and in vocational education in India. Now we know that India has a huge ambition to be the skilling capital of the world, and Australia is a natural partner to help fulfil that ambition," said the Austrade Commissioner. Reflecting on the changing Indian education landscape, Singh noted the impact of the National Education Policy 2020 in opening doors for global cooperation. "I'm a product of the Indian education system... it is really wonderful to see the policy tailwinds that we have... NEP 2020 has been the catalyst for internationalisation," he said. Singh highlighted that Australia is the first country to establish university campuses in India. "We have two campuses... with Deakin University and the University of Wollongong. We'll have another four or five... By this time next year, we could be looking at almost 10 Australian campuses operating in India." With 14 years of grand success, DIDAC INDIA is the largest event in Asia for Educational Resources and Technology-based products & solutions for all levels and segments of the Education Sector. Held annually, the International Exhibition & Conference addresses the growing demand for these products & solutions in the Indian Subcontinent. The event is partnered by Global Victoria (State Govt. of Victoria, Australia), the British Education Suppliers Association (BESA), DIDACTA (Germany), Worlddidac Association & Education Finland. Also, the event is supported by all prominent ministries of the Government of India and various educational bodies. The 15th edition of the Annual International Exhibition and Conference - DIDAC INDIA 2025 will take place from November 18-20, 2025, at Yashobhoomi (India International Convention & Expo Centre), New Delhi, India. DIDAC India is the largest event in India, offering a unique platform to showcase the latest trends in the education industry. It is Asia's largest and India's only conference and exhibition for the education sector. (ANI)
"Neeraj Agrawal (YOA: 2009), presently posted in the Ministry, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Islamic Republic of Mauritania", MEA said.

He is expected to take up the assignment shortly.

India and Mauritania enjoy cordial and friendly relations.

As per the Ministry of External Affairs, India opened its Embassy in Nouakchott in June 2021.

India provides substantial developmental, human resource development and infrastructural aid to Mauritania.

"The Government of Mauritania looks forward to further multi-faceted strengthening of its relationship with India, especially in port/s development, oil exploration, mining, power, agricultural, pharmaceuticals, engineering and educational sectors. The country is developing its port city of Nouadhibou in a big way and is inviting investors with attractive incentives. Mauritania can make immense use of India's expertise in sectors such as oil exploration, port development, power, communications, education, mining, agriculture, textile, automobile and pharmaceuticals."

India has extended a Line of Credit (LOC) aggregating to US$21.8 million to Mauritania for agro-industrial (milk processing plant) and drinking water projects.

According to MEA, India's main exports to Mauritania are cereals (and related products), pharma, plastic products, cotton, ceramic, Iron and steel articles, boilers and related mechanical appliances, electrical, chemical products, and non-railway vehicles. Mauritania's main exports to India include iron and steel, copper, aluminium,and electrical machinery.

Indian companies have a presence in mining, power, vehicles, fishing, iron and steel in the country.

Some Indian companies are also involved in project executions under LoC/Buyer's Credit schemes extended to Mauritania by India and other international organisations. Indian origin commodities are commonly seen at marketplaces, the statement said. (ANI)
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is set to host his counterparts from the member states of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in the national capital on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared in an official statement. As per the MEA, Ajit Doval will host his counterparts from Member States, including the Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Seychelles will be participating as an Observer State, and Malaysia has been invited as a Guest. The 6th Meeting of the NSAs of CSC was held in December 2023 in Mauritius, and Member States met again during the Signing Ceremony for the Founding Documents of CSC in Sri Lanka in August 2024. The Deputy National Security Advisers (DNSAs) of CSC countries have also been meeting regularly. The last meeting of DNSAs was held virtually in July 2024, MEA said. The Colombo Security Conclave was formed to promote closer cooperation among Member States on vital security matters and to strengthen partnerships to enhance regional security in the Indian Ocean region. In keeping with this vision and objective, the 7th Meeting of the National Security Advisors will be an opportunity for the participants to review the activities under the different pillars of cooperation, namely- Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalization; Combating Transnational Organized Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, and discuss the Roadmap and Action Plan for 2026. In a previous statement, the MEA had highlighted that the core objective of the Colombo Security Conclave is to promote regional security by addressing transnational threats and challenges of common concern to the Member States. "There are five pillars of cooperation under the CSC, namely Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalisation; Combating Trafficking and Transnational Organised Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Technology; and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief", it said. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met Russian Deputy Prime Minister of Russia Denis Manturov in Moscow on Wednesday. The leaders took stock of the progress since their last meeting in August and reviewed preparations for the upcoming Annual India-Russia Leaders Summit in New Delhi next month. In a post on X, EAM said, "A pleasure to meet First DPM Denis Manturov in Moscow today morning. Took stock of the progress made since our last meeting for the 26th IRIGC-TEC in August 2025. Reviewed preparations for the upcoming Annual India-Russia Leaders Summit in New Delhi next month." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1991061695624851524?s=20 According to the Russian Embassy in India, the leaders discussed bilateral cooperation in priority sectors and the implementation of the decisions of the 26th Session of the Russian-Indian Inter-Governmental Commission on Trade, Economic, Scientific, Technical, and Cultural Cooperation. They also discussed trade, investment and finance, energy, and industrial cooperation. "The meeting was held as part of preparations for Russia's President Vladimir Putin's upcoming visit to India", the Embassy said in a post on its Telegram channel. https://x.com/RusEmbIndia/status/1991106733427786224?s=20 The meeting between EAM Jaishankar and DPM Manturov comes shortly after Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Tuesday met with Nikolai Patrushev, aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, during a meeting in the national capital, with both sides discussing ways to further deepen bilateral cooperation and reviewing preparations for the upcoming annual India-Russia Summit scheduled for early December. According to a post on X by the Russian Embassy in India, the leaders held detailed discussions on a wide range of issues related to bilateral cooperation. Patrushev, who is also the Chairman of the Maritime Board of Russia, during his meeting with the Prime Minister, reaffirmed the mutual interest in strengthening maritime capabilities and enhancing collaboration across various areas of strategic partnership between the two nations. "On November 18, in New Delhi, Aide to the President of Russia and Chairman of the Maritime Board of Russia Nikolai Patrushev was received by Prime Minister of India Narendra Modi. The parties discussed various issues of Russian-Indian cooperation, particularly in the maritime sector. The two sides emphasised their mutual interest in deepening interaction between Russia and India to strengthen their maritime capabilities. Preparations for the Russia-India Summit, scheduled for early December, were also touched upon," the Russian Embassy in India stated in its post. Earlier on Monday, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, during which both sides reviewed preparations for the 23rd Annual India-Russia Summit, which will also witness President Putin's visit to India. Both sides also discussed the bilateral partnership between the two countries, encompassing trade and people-to-people exchanges. During his visit to Russia, Jaishankar also paid respects to Mahatma Gandhi in Moscow and highlighted how Gandhi's ideals and teachings are more relevant than ever. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1991084329225634236?s=20 EAM also inaugurated the Consulates of India in Yekaterinburg and Kazan, and expressed confidence that their establishment would give a boost to trade, tourism, economic, scientific, technological, academic and cultural ties between India and Russia. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1991088758159266239?s=20 "Delighted to inaugurate Consulates General of India in Yekaterinburg and Kazan, alongside DFM Andrey Rudenko, Amb Vinay Kumar and representatives from Sverdlovsk and Tatarstan. Confident that the establishment of the new Consulates will boost trade, tourism, economic, scientific, technological, academic and cultural ties between India and Russia." https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1991094837261828455?s=20 EAM also interacted with members of the Indian community and friends of India in Moscow. (ANI)
National Security Advisor (NSA) of Bangladesh, Khalilur Rahman, met NSA Ajit Doval here in the national capital on Wednesday, as stated by the Bangladesh High Commission. According to a statement from the Bangladesh High Commission, the NSAs discussed the functioning of the Colombo Security Conclave and key bilateral issues. Rahman also invited NSA Doval to visit Bangladesh. The statement by the Bangladesh High Commission said, "Bangladesh delegation to the Seventh NSA-level Meeting of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC), led by the National Security Adviser, Dr Khalilur Rahman, met with the National Security Adviser of India, Mr Ajit Doval, and his team today in Delhi. They discussed work of CSC and key bilateral issues. Dr. Rahman invited Mr. Doval to visit Bangladesh at his convenience." https://x.com/bdhc_delhi/status/1991112590920126872?s=20 Rahman is leading the Bangladesh delegation for the seventh NSA CSC Meet. The meeting comes amidst strained ties following Sheikh Hasina's ouster and death sentence. The meeting marks the highest-level security engagement since an interim government, led by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus, took power in Bangladesh in August 2024. A central point of contention is Bangladesh's formal request for India to extradite Sheikh Hasina, who has been sentenced to death by a Bangladeshi tribunal. The Ministry of External Affairs on Monday said that India has taken note of the verdict announced by the International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina and said that India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh. MEA underlined that India will always engage constructively with all stakeholders. The statement said, "India has noted the verdict announced by the "International Crimes Tribunal of Bangladesh" concerning former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina. As a close neighbour, India remains committed to the best interests of the people of Bangladesh, including in peace, democracy, inclusion and stability in that country. We will always engage constructively with all stakeholders to that end." A Bangladesh court on Monday afternoon found ousted former Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina guilty of committing "crimes against humanity" during the July-August uprising in 2024. Local media reported that the International Crimes Tribunal-1 has sentenced Hasina to death. The timing of the meeting is significant, with Bangladesh's general election expected in about three months. India has publicly called for a free, fair, inclusive and participatory vote. The meeting reflects ongoing engagement between the two nations, despite current challenges. India has expressed commitment to Bangladesh's stability and democracy, while Bangladesh seeks cooperation on security and economic issues. National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is set to host his counterparts from the member states of the Colombo Security Conclave (CSC) in the national capital on Thursday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) shared in an official statement. As per the MEA, Ajit Doval will host his counterparts from Member States, including the Maldives, Mauritius, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh. Seychelles will be participating as an Observer State, and Malaysia has been invited as a Guest. The Colombo Security Conclave was formed to promote closer cooperation among Member States on vital security matters and to strengthen partnerships to enhance regional security in the Indian Ocean region. In keeping with this vision and objective, the 7th Meeting of the National Security Advisors will be an opportunity for the participants to review the activities under the different pillars of cooperation, namely- Maritime Safety and Security; Countering Terrorism and Radicalization; Combating Transnational Organized Crime; Cyber Security and Protection of Critical Infrastructure and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief, and discuss the Roadmap and Action Plan for 2026. (ANI)
FAIRBANKS, Alaska, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Contango ORE, Inc. ("Contango" or the "Company") (NYSE American: CTGO) is pleased to announce the start of the Lucky Shot drill program to support completion of a Feasibility Study. We will be conducting the drill program in a series of four phases, which will focus on a combination of drilling from underground drifts and surface exploration - expected to be executed during Summer 2026. The underground exploration drilling targets ~18,000 meters (~59,055 ft) across 210 drill holes and is designed to in-fill the Lucky Shot vein resource to Proven and Probable categories. In parallel with in-fill drilling, selected holes will undergo hydrological, and geotechnical testing and monitoring to characterize the overall deposit. In addition to assaying the core, selected drill core will undergo advanced metallurgical, geochemical, and specific gravity tests to assist in building a reserve model for the deposit in support of a final Feasibility Study. Drilling began on November 19, 2025, and is expected to extend through 2026 with the Feasibility Study expected to be completed in 2027. Assays are expected to start being reported in Q1 2026 and will be released in batches.

Dave Larimer, the Company's Exploration Manager said "It's exciting to get back underground at the Lucky Shot mine! The initial phase of drilling is a decisive resource "In-Fill" program on the Lucky Shot Vein. In addition, we will be drill testing mineralized conjugate and relay structures off the Lucky Shot Vein system that have recently been mapped underground in the West Drift. Channel samples from the West Drift structure included 26.1 g/t gold, 379 g/t gold, and 9.1 g/t gold over 0.5 meters in length averaging ~139 g/t gold over 1.5 meters. The goal of this drill program is to gather the data required to build a robust and mature resource model to support a Final Feasibility Study."

QUALIFIED PERSONS

Dave Larimer, CPG, Exploration Manager, a qualified person under S-K 1300, has approved the scientific and technical information related to exploration contained in this news release.

ABOUT CONTANGO

Contango is a NYSE American listed company that engages in exploration for gold and associated minerals in Alaska. Contango holds a 30% interest in the Peak Gold JV, which leases approximately 675,000 acres of land for exploration and development on the Manh Choh project, with the remaining 70% owned by KG Mining (Alaska), Inc., an indirect subsidiary of Kinross Gold Corporation, operator of the Peak Gold JV. The Company and its subsidiaries also have (i) a lease on the Johnson Tract project from the underlying owner, CIRI, (ii) a lease on the Lucky Shot project from the underlying owner, Alaska Hardrock Inc., (iii) 100% ownership of approximately 8,600 acres of peripheral State of Alaska mining claims, and (iv) a 100% interest in approximately 145,000 acres of State of Alaska mining claims that give Contango the exclusive right to explore and develop minerals on these lands. Additional information can be found on our web page at www.contangoore.com.

FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS

This press release contains forward-looking statements regarding Contango that are intended to be covered by the safe harbor for "forward-looking statements" provided by the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, based on Contango's current expectations and includes statements regarding future results of operations, quality and nature of the asset base, the assumptions upon which estimates are based and other expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, strategies or statements about future events or performance (often, but not always, using words such as "expects", "projects", "anticipates", "plans", "estimates", "potential", "possible", "probable", or "intends", or stating that certain actions, events or results "may", "will", "should", or "could" be taken, occur or be achieved). Forward-looking statements are based on current expectations, estimates and projections that involve a number of risks and uncertainties, which could cause actual results to differ materially from those reflected in the statements. These risks include, but are not limited to: the risks of the exploration and the mining industry (for example, operational risks in exploring for and developing mineral reserves; risks and uncertainties involving geology; the speculative nature of the mining industry; the uncertainty of estimates and projections relating to future production, costs and expenses; the volatility of natural resources prices, including prices of gold and associated minerals; the existence and extent of commercially exploitable minerals in properties acquired by Contango or the Peak Gold JV; ability to realize the anticipated benefits of the Peak Gold JV; potential delays or changes in plans with respect to exploration or development projects or capital expenditures; the interpretation of exploration results and the estimation of mineral resources; the loss of key employees or consultants; health, safety and environmental risks and risks related to weather and other natural disasters); uncertainties as to the availability and cost of financing; Contango's inability to retain or maintain its relative ownership interest in the Peak Gold JV; inability to realize expected value from acquisitions; inability of our management team to execute its plans to meet its goals; the extent of disruptions caused by an outbreak of disease, such as the COVID-19 pandemic; and the possibility that government policies may change, political developments may occur or governmental approvals may be delayed or withheld, including as a result of presidential and congressional elections in the U.S. or the inability to obtain mining permits. Additional information on these and other factors which could affect Contango's exploration program or financial results are included in Contango's other reports on file with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission. Investors are cautioned that any forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and actual results or developments may differ materially from the projections in the forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements are based on the estimates and opinions of management at the time the statements are made. Contango does not assume any obligation to update forward-looking statements should circumstances or management's estimates or opinions change.

SOURCE Contango Ore
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will travel to Johannesburg, South Africa, on Friday, November 21, to attend the 20th G20 Leaders' Summit, the Ministry of External Affairs stated on Wednesday. According to the MEA release, the Summit, hosted by South Africa, marks the fourth consecutive G20 meeting held in the Global South, underscoring the growing role of emerging economies in shaping global governance. PM Modi will be in South Africa from November 21 to November 23. At the Summit, PM Modi will present India's perspectives across the G20 agenda and is scheduled to speak in all three main sessions, the MEA stated. These include discussions on inclusive and sustainable economic growth, focusing on trade, financing for development and global debt challenges; a session on building a resilient world, addressing disaster risk reduction, climate change, just energy transitions and food systems; and a third session devoted to shaping a fair and just future, covering critical minerals, decent work and artificial intelligence. "At the Summit, Prime Minister will put forth India's perspectives on the G20 agenda. Prime Minister is expected to speak in all the three sessions of the Summit. These sessions are on - Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Growth Leaving No One Behind : Building our economies; the role of trade; financing for development and the debt burden; A Resilient World - the G20's Contribution: Disaster Risk Reduction, Climate Change, Just Energy Transitions, Food Systems and A Fair and a Just Future for All: Critical Minerals; Decent Work; Artificial Intelligence," the release stated. The Prime Minister is also expected to hold bilateral meetings with several world leaders attending the gathering on the sidelines of the Summit and will additionally participate in the India-Brazil-South Africa (IBSA) Leaders' Meeting, which will be hosted by the African nation. Last week, US President Donald Trump expressed his dissuade of not to be part of the upcoming G20 Summit, calling it "a total disgrace." "Afrikaners (People who are descended from Dutch settlers, and also French and German immigrants) are being killed and slaughtered, and their land and farms are being illegally confiscated," Trump said in a Truth Social post. "No U.S. Government Official will attend as long as these Human Rights abuses continue," the post read. "I look forward to hosting the 2026 G20 in Miami, Florida!" According to The Hill, in May the White House told federal agencies to stop work on the G20 summit, scheduled for November 22-23, with Trump indicating at the time that the US would not participate. Days before Trump, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on X that he "will NOT attend the G20 summit in Johannesburg." Following his remark, the South African High Commissioner to India, Anil Sooklal, stated that the G20 has become "too big to fail" and will deliver a successful summit despite the US's boycott of the leaders' meeting. He termed the US decision "unfortunate" but asserted that the forum no longer depends on any single nation. "It's unfortunate that President Trump and the USA have decided not to attend the final summit in this first round of summits in South Africa. So even though the USA will not be present at the table, as has been stated by President Trump, the G20 has been established as a powerful global force. It's not dependent any longer on any one country. So the G20 has become, I would say, it's too big to fail," Sooklal said. This year, South Africa will host the G20 Leaders Summit, with President Cyril Ramaphosa presiding from November 22 to November 23 at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. The Group of 20 (G20) comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with two regional bodies, namely the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), as per MEA. The G20 members represent around 85 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), over 75 per cent of global trade, and about two-thirds of the world's population. (ANI)
Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, during his visit to the United States interacted with several officials from the US Navy and held discussions aimed at strengthening maritime cooperation, enhancing defence industry collaboration, understanding of emerging challenges, information sharing, maritime domain awareness, intelligence, and opportunities towards expanding avenues for joint innovation, technology transfer, training, and interoperability, the Indian Navy Spokesperson said on Wednesday. In a post on X, the Navy Spokesperson highlighted that Admiral Tripathi called on John C Phelan, Secretary of the Navy, as well as Elbridge Colby, Under Secretary of War for Policy. He also interacted with VAdm Yvette Devids, Deputy Chief of Naval Operations, Plans and Strategy, Steve Parode, Deputy Director Naval Intelligence, and RAdm Raymond P Owens, Director Navy International Programs Office. "Discussions on strengthening Maritime Cooperation, enhancing defence industry collaboration, understanding of emerging challenges, information sharing, Maritime Domain Awareness, intelligence, and opportunities towards expanding avenues for joint innovation, technology transfer, training, and interoperability between Indian Navy & US Navy were progressed." As per the Spokesperson, they also deliberated upon areas such as regional security dynamics, the evolving Indo-Pacific region architecture, and strengthening strategic convergence between India and US towards ensuring a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific. "The engagements reaffirmed the shared commitment to deepen the India-U.S. maritime partnership, bolstering mutual understanding and upholding a secure, stable, and rules-based Indo-Pacific", the spokesperson said. https://x.com/indiannavy/status/1991141589893468420?s=20 On Sunday, Admiral Tripathi visited the United States Navy's advanced Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Daniel Inouye and was briefed on its state-of-the-art maritime surveillance systems and cutting-edge modifications, according to an official spokesperson for the Indian Navy. During the visit, CNS Tripathi also called on the Joint Base Pearl Harbour-Hickam, where he was briefed on the operational capabilities and ongoing initiatives of the US Pacific Fleet and the various units stationed at the joint facility. The visit was aimed at strengthening the vigorous and persistent maritime partnership between India and the US. It highlighted the importance of strengthening interoperability and enhancing operational synergy between the two maritime forces. The Indian Navy Spokesperson shared on Saturday that he held a series of high-level engagements with Admiral Samuel J Paparo, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, and several other senior US Navy officials. They held discussions to review the key pillars of the India-US defence cooperation, including strengthening maritime security and maritime cooperation, enhancing interoperability, and expanding avenues for operational engagements across the Indo-Pacific. India and the United States share a robust maritime partnership built on mutual trust and shared values. The visit by Admiral Tripathi underscores the Indian Navy's commitment to deepening cooperation with the US Navy in pursuit of a free, open, inclusive, and rules-based Indo-Pacific. (ANI)
Australian Foreign Minister Senator Penny Wong arrived in the national capital on Wednesday to co-chair the 16th Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, which is also the 26th meeting between the two. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), in a post on X, announced her arrival and welcomed her, noting that it provides a significant opportunity to advance the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. "Warm welcome to FM Senator Wong of Australia as she arrives in New Delhi to co-chair the 16th Foreign Ministers' Framework Dialogue with EAM S Jaishankar. The visit offers an opportunity to build on the various facets of India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership," the MEA said in a post on X. https://x.com/MEAIndia/status/1991168339142730070 During her visit, discussions would take place on cooperation across cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime security, defence, sport, and people-to-people ties. In her official statement ahead of her visit, Wong said, "Australia and India have never been closer and our partnership never more consequential - it is crucial for us and crucial for the region in a sharper and more competitive world." She highlighted that her visit builds on the high momentum of the series of engagements between India and Australia and "reflects the ongoing work of the Albanese Government to deepen our relationships and strengthen our resilience." Wong noted that the cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership reflects the deepening alignment and shared vision for a peaceful, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. "I look forward to discussions with my counterpart and friend, Minister for External Affairs Dr S. Jaishankar, to set the course for an even more ambitious, future-focused agenda, as our partnership enters its next phase. We will look to enhance our cooperation across cyber and strategic technology, trade, maritime security, defence, sport, and people-to-people ties," she stated. "Together, Australia and India are working bilaterally, through the Quad, and through multilateral institutions to advance our collective security and prosperity," Wong further noted. The high-level interaction comes shortly after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Australia in October. He held delegation-level talks with Wong and also met Australia's Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, during his visit, hailing the fillip to the bilateral relationship. (ANI)
A High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP) completed with Indian assistance has been inaugurated in Pyuthan, Lumbini Province, Nepal. As per a release from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu, the school and hostel buildings of Shree Dang-Bang Secondary School were inaugurated on Wednesday. The school is located in Airawati Rural Municipality-1, Amilee, Pyuthan, Lumbini Province, in the Himalayan Nation. Built with the Government of India's financial assistance, the infrastructure was jointly inaugurated by Gitanjali Brandon, Counsellor, Embassy of India, Kathmandu and Nabil Vikram Shah, Chairman of the Airawati Rural Municipality. "Government of India's grant was utilised for the construction of the school & hostel buildings and other allied facilities, as a High Impact Community Development Project (HICDP). It was implemented through the Airawati Rural Municipality, Pyuthan," a release from the Indian Embassy reads. Shree Dang-Bang Secondary School is one of the leading government schools in the rural area of Pyuthan. The school provides education from class ECD (Playgroup) to 10th Standard for 2 hundred and 34 students, out of which about 60% are girls. The Chairman of the Airawati Rural Municipality, School Management, and other stakeholders appreciated the development support being provided by the Government of India. They expressed confidence that the infrastructure created by this project would help provide better education to the students of Shree Dang-Bang Secondary School in Pyuthan. "It would also help create an improved environment for learning and contribute to the overall development of the education sector in the region," the release reads. As close neighbours, India and Nepal are engaged in wide-ranging and multi-sectoral cooperation. The implementation of HICDPs reflects the continued support of the Government of India in bolstering the efforts of the Government of Nepal in achieving growth and development, apart from augmenting infrastructure in priority sectors Political representatives, government officials, social workers, school teachers, students, and their parents were also present on the occasion. (ANI)
Mbangiseni David Mahlobo, Deputy Minister of Water and Sanitation of South Africa, spoke about the upcoming G20 Summit, which the country is set to host, calling it a milestone. He called for solidarity in the face of rising unilateralism and protectionism. Mahlobo made the remarks on the sidelines of the World Toilet Summit 2025, which took place here in the national capital. Speaking about the upcoming G20 Summit, which South Africa is hosting, he said, "It is a very important milestone for our country and our continent. It is happening for the first time. We shall be able to succeed under the theme of solidarity. We need a lot of solidarity because of the rise of unilateralism and protectionism. We also need solidarity because there is a commitment to put resources to support around the issues of climate change..." This year, South Africa will host the G20 Leaders Summit, with President Cyril Ramaphosa presiding from November 22 to November 23 at the Nasrec Expo Centre in Johannesburg. The Group of 20 (G20) comprises Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, the Republic of Korea, Mexico, Russia, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, Turkey, the United Kingdom, and the United States, along with two regional bodies, namely the European Union (EU) and the African Union (AU), as per MEA. The G20 members represent around 85 per cent of global Gross Domestic Product (GDP), over 75 per cent of global trade, and about two-thirds of the world's population. Speaking on the occasion of World Toilet Day, he congratulated the Sulabh organisation, World Toilet Organisation and the government of India for hosting the important event. A lot of work has been done; you can see progress has been made by many institutions and the government of India when you made your own decision in 2014 to address your sanitation problem, because it had an impact on human dignity. It had an effect on safety, on the vulnerable community, especially women and children and also the environment." "We are very pleased that we have been part of this movement as the Republic of South Africa. We all agree that, in terms of the SDGs, Goal 6, we have to push a little harder to ensure access to water and sanitation for all. We must be able to increase the necessary investment and partnerships that are there, but also look at the issues of mobilising communities- rural communities, indigenous communities", the South African Minister said. He further added, "When it comes to research around kinds of new technologies, around issues of sanitation, we are leading." The event was also attended by Union Minister CR Paatil, who participated in the World Toilet Day Summit in New Delhi. Speaking to reporters, the Union Minister said that this summit will be extremely useful in spreading awareness in the coming days. Union Minister Manohar Lal Khattar had also attended the summit. World Toilet Day is observed every year on November 19 to raise awareness about the global sanitation crisis and the importance of safe toilets for all. It was officially designated as a United Nations observance in 2013. It highlights toilets as vital for health, dignity, equality, and sustainability and directly supports Sustainable Development Goal 6: Clean Water and Sanitation, aiming for universal access by 2030. (ANI)
"Met with Mr Liu Zhenmin, Special Envoy for Climate Change, China, on the sidelines of COP30 in Belem today. Our discussions involved matters related to co-ordination between LMDC countries in the ongoing developments in COP30, with particular focus on maintaining the integrity of the Paris Agreement," Bhupender Yadav wrote on 'X'.

https://x.com/byadavbjp/status/1991161879784558663?s=20

Earlier, Bhupender Yadav, addressed the High-Level Ministerial Segment on the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) at UNFCCC CoP30 in Belem, Brazil, on Monday.

He called for renewed global cooperation to protect big cat species and their habitats as part of integrated climate and biodiversity action, according to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The event was graced by the Minister of Agriculture and Livestock, Government of Nepal, Madan Prasad Pariyar, Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.

The Minister thanked Brazil for hosting the event and noted the timeliness of the theme: "Protecting Big Cats, Protecting Climate and Biodiversity." He further emphasised that ecological challenges today are deeply interconnected and require linked solutions.

Yadav noted that Big cats are apex predators, regulators of ecological balance, and sentinels of ecosystem health. "Where big cats thrive, forests are healthier, grasslands regenerate, water systems function, and carbon is stored efficiently in living landscapes".

He also highlighted that declines in big cat populations lead to destabilised ecosystems, weakened resilience to climate change, and loss of natural carbon sinks. (ANI)
US President Donald Trump on Wednesday (local time) announced that they are going to be "selling" Saudi Arabia some of the "greatest" military equipment "ever built", a day after officially designating the Kingdom as a "major non-NATO ally." "... We officially designated the kingdom yesterday as a major non-NATO ally... That's a sign of trust. We signed a historic strategic defence agreement yesterday... We're going to be selling Saudi Arabia some of the greatest military equipment ever built. We build the best military equipment in the world by far. That's why we do the most business, including nearly 300 American-made tanks, which you're buying, many other things, the aeroplanes...," Trump said at the US-Saudi Investment Forum. Donald Trump noted that the relationship between the US and Saudi Arabia has probably grown stronger after they "very quickly" "obliterated" the nuclear capability of Iran and likened it to a "real cloud over the whole Middle East". "The partnership between our two nations is among the most consequential in the entire world and together the Crown Prince and I are making an alliance stronger and more powerful than ever before. We've had good relationships... And now it is and probably even better because we took the dark cloud away from your country. It was called Iran and its nuclear capability. We obliterated that very quickly and strongly... But that was a real cloud over the whole Middle East and now they wanna make a deal... We'll be doing that probably. But that was a terrible cloud that you had to live with for a long time; for 22 years, they were thinking about doing that. That was even before the B2s. The B2s were undetectable and they dropped their payload and every single bomb hit its exact mark, which was a shaft going deep into the mountain...and it was total obliteration... But they want to make a deal. We'll see what happens." Trump said. He also mentioned some "groundbreaking" agreements signed by the two countries and expressed gratitude to the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia for "bringing all those jobs and great opportunities to our country" "This week, our countries also signed groundbreaking agreements on civil nuclear energy, critical minerals, and artificial intelligence...That is in addition to the $600 billion investment in the United States that Saudi Arabia announced during my visit there last spring... Yesterday, the Crown Prince announced that they'll be investing in the US is $1 trillion... We're told that $270 billion in agreements and sales are being signed between dozens of companies... On behalf of the thousands of American workers, I want to thank you for bringing all those jobs and great opportunities to our country...,' Trump said. Earlier, the Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman of Saudi Arabia received a reception befitting a head of state, with an Army-mounted honour guard, a military flyover of six planes, and cannon salutes on the White House South Lawn as he arrived at the White House. Trump then walked his guest along the newly created "Presidential Walk of Fame" outside the West Wing before the two walked into the Oval Office. "We have an extremely respected man in the Oval Office today, and a friend of mine for a long time," Trump said during the welcoming ceremony. Inside the Oval Office, the crown prince indicated Saudi Arabia's willingness to join the Abraham Accords, the 2020 agreement that normalised ties between Israel and several Arab nations. However, the Middle Eastern leader made clear this would be conditional on progress towards Palestinian statehood. "We want to be part of the accord, but we also want to be sure that we secure a clear path to a two-state solution," the crown prince said."We want them to coexist peacefully in the region, and we will do our best to reach a deal." In a potentially significant shift, Trump announced plans to sell advanced F-35 stealth fighter jets to Saudi Arabia, ending Israel's exclusive access to the aircraft in the region. The move could alter the military balance in the Middle East, though the US has long maintained a policy commitment to Israel's "qualitative military edge" over regional neighbours. (ANI)
NAGOYA, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Toyotas experimental urban prototype Woven City, built in Shizuoka Prefecture as a large-scale test site, has entered its second month since opening in September, with the citys early operations beginning to take visible shape as on-site demonstrations expand and new technologies are trialed across the community.

The September launch drew significant attention, marking the start of a project Toyota describes as a future-oriented city where the entire urban environment functions as a platform for real-world testing.

During a media visit arranged for broadcasters from Nagoya, staff highlighted how feedback has steadily accumulated over the past two months, including comments left on sticky notes by visitors, some written by children, expressing curiosity and expectations for the new city.

Roads within Woven City are positioned as test courses where multiple forms of mobility share space, and several cameras have been installed at intersections to analyze traffic flow using AI, with the data expected to contribute to optimizing signal operations. Robots that deliver shopping bags are already active in the community, offering residents a glimpse into the projects mobility-centered design.

A growing number of companies outside the Toyota Group have also begun participating in field trials. Beverage maker DyDo DRINCO has installed a vending machine with no buttons or coin slot, requiring users to scan a QR code with a smartphone and select drinks from an on-screen list. Furukado Yoshihiro of DyDo DRINCOs vending machine business planning division said the company aims to demonstrate that vending machines can exist in a city without becoming visual noise.

At a UCC coffee shop in the city, researchers are examining how the aroma and flavor of coffee influence concentration and task performance, collecting data to support future product development.

Current residents of Woven City consist of several households of Toyota employees and their families, who live in rental units ranging from studio layouts to around three-bedroom apartments while cooperating in ongoing trials. Although the target timeline has not been disclosed, the first development phase plans to increase the population to roughly 300 residents as the project expands.

Source: Nagoya TV News
NAHA, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Okinawa Hotel in Naha received a commemorative bronze plaque from the Agency for Cultural Affairs after being designated as a Registered Tangible Cultural Property by the national government.

Founded in 1941 in Naminoue as the only hotel operating in Okinawa at the time, Okinawa Hotel later relocated to the Omoromachi district of Naha and went on to serve tourists, government officials, and other visitors, becoming an important part of the prefectures postwar tourism industry.

In March 2024, the Agency for Cultural Affairs registered the hotel as a Tangible Cultural Property, recognizing features such as its Brick Wing, which preserves the structures original appearance, and its stone-tiled walls and roof tiles that reflect Okinawas traditional landscape.

To mark the designation, the agency presented a bronze plaque to the hotel on November 17th, with General Manager Koki Miyazato expressing his gratitude.

Miyazato said he intends to carry the responsibility and pride of managing a registered cultural property while continuing to build a hotel that remains beloved by the community and can carry its legacy into the next century.

Okinawa Hotel is the 36th site in the prefecture to be designated a Registered Tangible Cultural Property, and the first postwar building in Okinawa to receive the designation.

Source: OTV
FUKUOKA, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - A light aircraft carrying three people that departed from Saga Airport on the morning of November 19th was found crashed in the mountains of Hoshino Village in Yame City, Fukuoka Prefecture, where emergency crews recovered three bodies whose identities and genders have yet to be confirmed.

The first report came at around 10:40 a.m. when a witness alerted the fire department, saying something resembling an aircraft had fallen and black smoke was rising from the mountains. Firefighters and police gathered near the location, approximately 2.7 kilometers into a forest road in Hoshino Village.

A fire department helicopter spotted the crash site from the air at around 12:30 p.m., nearly two hours after the initial call. Rescue operations began immediately, with crews seeing white fragments caught in tree branches along with what appeared to be charred parts of the fuselage. From above, faint flames and smoke were still visible, and debris believed to be parts of the aircraft were widely scattered around the area.

At a command post set up along the forest road, police and fire officials spread out maps as they worked to pinpoint the exact crash location.

According to Saga Airport authorities, the aircraft was a Cirrus SR20, a small private plane owned by an individual. It took off from Saga Airport at 10:13 a.m., and about 20 minutes later transmitted a distress signal from the vicinity of Hoshino Village before all contact was lost. The aircraft had been parked at the airport since the previous day.

On November 19th, the plane was carrying three men believed to be residents of Kyoto and Hyogo prefectures, with an expected arrival at Osaka Airport shortly after 12:30 p.m.

By around 1:30 p.m., firefighters searching the mountainous area near the Oita Prefecture border located the three occupants in a state of cardiac arrest. Police later confirmed that three bodies of unknown gender had been recovered. The aircraft was found torn apart into multiple pieces.

Investigators from the Japan Transport Safety Board are expected to enter the crash site as early as November 20th to begin examining the cause of the accident.

Source: KBC
Led by Bessemer Venture Partners, the round reflects 3x increase in valuation in six months and adds new investors, including CrowdStrike's George Kurtz

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Doppel , the AI-native social engineering defense (SED) platform, today announced a $70 million Series C funding round, just six months following its Series B. Led by Bessemer Venture Partners, this brings the total amount raised to $124M and the company's valuation to over $600M. First-time investors include George Kurtz, CEO of CrowdStrike, NTT DOCOMO Ventures, Aurum Partners  the investment fund affiliated with the owners of the San Francisco 49ers and other strategic LPs  and a group of athlete investors led by WNBA players Nneka Ogwumike, Breanna Stewart, and Kelsey Plum, who joined the round through the a16z Cultural Leadership Fund. Returning investors include venture capital firms Andreessen Horowitz, South Park Commons, Script Capital, 9Yards Capital, Sozo Ventures, and Strategic Cyber Ventures.

Technological advancements in AI are arriving at a near-constant pace, creating powerful new capabilities while also introducing sophisticated attack vectors for cybercriminals. Generative AI now enables hyper-personalized social engineering attacks across domains, social media, messaging apps, paid ads, the dark web, and more, increasing demand for solutions that can keep pace and protect businesses. Doppel is the leading platform delivering true multi-channel SED. Using agentic AI and a real-time threat graph, Doppel detects and unifies threats and automates takedowns, while strengthening employee defenses through next-generation, deepfake-driven simulations and training, cementing its position as the go-to solution to defend what's real and disrupt what's not.

"We're thrilled to double down on our partnership with Doppel, as their world-class team is truly unparalleled," said Elliott Robinson, Partner at Bessemer Venture Partners. "In my 20 years of working with startups, Doppel stands out with its incredible speed, massive ambition, and laser focus on execution, which is a clear recipe for success. We believe these qualities will solidify Doppel as the unquestioned leader in social engineering defense for years to come."

"I'm excited about what Doppel is delivering to combat social engineering attacks," said George Kurtz, CEO and Founder of CrowdStrike. "Cybercriminals are using AI, conducting increasingly sophisticated attacks to manipulate and deceive users. Doppel's traction with Fortune 500 enterprises illustrates market need for social engineering defense (SED) and impressive momentum."

The new funding will accelerate product innovation across Doppel's Digital Risk Protection product portfolio and expand its Human Risk Management offerings, including Simulation and Security Awareness Training , to help organizations turn awareness into measurable risk reduction. Following its launch in August, Doppel's new Simulation product has achieved rapid traction  already accounting for a material share of new bookings in Q3 and underscoring strong early market demand for the expanded platform.

Doppel has sustained record growth this year, achieving 3x ARR growth YoY and more than 5X increase in Fortune 500 customers. Today, Doppel protects dozens of the Fortune 500, notable brands including Coinbase, Ramp, Commerce, and Orrick, and over 200 total customers in industries such as financial services, energy & utilities, technology & software, industrial & manufacturing, healthcare & life sciences, and media. To support this momentum, the company has more than doubled its team year over year and continues to hire aggressively across engineering, product, sales, and marketing, while also expanding internationally.

"As a global, publicly traded company, protecting our business and customers is vital," said Cayden Larkin, Security Analyst at Commerce, the parent company of BigCommerce and Feedonomics. "Doppel is a core layer of our security program, helping us to reduce risk by taking down impersonations across channels, and ultimately safeguarding our brand and reputation. We're excited by Doppel's pace of innovation and the impact it will continue to have on our customers and brand."

"As a global brand with highly visible executives, protecting our leadership team is paramount," said a CISO from a Fortune 500 agriscience leader. "Doppel has been a game-changer for our corporate security, driving a 93% reduction in exposed executive PII and proving vital to minimizing our risk profile. We are proud to call Doppel a great partner in ensuring our leadership's safety, and look forward to the continued innovation and impact."

Doppel's latest work with OpenAI marks a major milestone in AI-driven security. By fine-tuning OpenAI's models with thousands of expert cybersecurity decisions, Doppel built an autonomous AI agent capable of detecting and neutralizing complex social engineering threats in real time.

"We're proud to have the continued support of returning investors and to welcome new partners to our roster," said Kevin Tian, CEO and co-founder of Doppel. "Their support validates the strength of our vision and the work our team has accomplished. This signals confidence in the path we're on and reinforces our commitment to driving rapid growth. With this backing, we are positioned to continue scaling aggressively and creating meaningful impact in the market."

To match the pace and acceleration of Doppel's growth, the company has unveiled a refreshed brand identity. Discover the new look and learn how its AI-native SED platform helps protect organizations from modern social engineering threats at www.doppel.com . Follow the company on X and LinkedIn , and explore career opportunities at https://www.doppel.com/careers .

About Doppel

Doppel is an AI-native platform designed for social engineering defense. Doppel protects individuals and brands from AI-powered impersonation, phishing, fraud, and social engineering by dismantling attacker infrastructure and building resilience through training and simulation. Doppel's comprehensive Digital Risk Protection solution detects threats across multiple channels, links alerts into a real-time threat graph, and offers AI-driven infrastructure disruption. These threats inform phishing simulation campaigns and security awareness training to offer robust Human Risk Management capabilities that strengthen employee defenses through next-generation training and testing.

SOURCE Doppel
TOKYO, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Although the winter weather pattern is easing today on November 19th, bringing clear skies to some regions, forecasters warn that coastal areas may still face sudden bursts of rain, snow, and severe convection driven by rapidly developing thunderclouds.

Meteorologists note that when the winter pattern weakens, inland areas cool sharply due to radiative cooling, allowing a mesoscale high-pressure system to form. Southerly winds generated from this high pressure can collide with the lingering northwesterly flow over the Sea of Japan, creating a shear line that increases the likelihood of thundercloud development along coastal zones. As a result, residents in these areas  rather than in the mountains  are urged to watch for lightning, hail, sudden downpours, and strong gusts.

Rain and snow are expected across four broad regions. On the Sea of Japan side from Hokuriku to southern Tohoku, lingering cold air will maintain a mix of rain and snow. Around the Izu Islands, the shear line associated with the so-called ninja cloud that brought rain to Tokyo yesterday will continue to generate showers. In the Sanin region, rain is forecast as the JPCZ  the Japan Sea Polar Air Mass Convergence Zone  forms another shear line, with additional caution advised along the Kii Channel. From western Kyushu across southern waters, a northwesterlysoutheasterly shear line is likely to produce widespread rain through the day, particularly around the Goto Islands, Tanegashima, and Yakushima. Okinawa will remain susceptible to rain clouds associated with a nearby front.

The most severe conditions are expected along coastal areas from Hokuriku to southern Tohoku, including regions such as Joetsu in Niigata Prefecture, Akita City, and the Oga Peninsula. Mature thunderclouds could approach suddenly, bringing abrupt lightning, hail, and intense wind gusts.

Weather agencies urge residents to stay alert to real-time radar and cloud movement throughout the day and to check the latest forecasts using weather apps and official platforms.

Source: 
BEIJING, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Chinas Communist Partyaffiliated Global Times reported on its front page this morning that it had demanded a clear explanation from the Japanese side regarding the discussions held on the previous day, underscoring Beijings position that Tokyo must address the issue directly.

At the same time, the Peoples Daily published a sharply worded commentary claiming that the poison Prime Minister Takaichi threw into JapanChina relations must be detoxified by Takaichi himself, once again arguing that full responsibility for the current tensions lies with Japan.

Amid these developments, Hong Kong media have reported that roughly 491,000 airline reservations for flights bound for Japan from the 15th onward have been canceled, suggesting that the fallout from the dispute is continuing to widen.

Related: Tensions Persist in Japan-China Relations

Source: TBS
OSAKA, Nov 19 (News On Japan) - Osaka Citys proposal to halt new applications for so-called special-zone minpaku at the end of May next year has been approved by the government as noise, waste management issues, and other disturbances continue to draw complaints from local communities.

Special-zone minpaku, permitted only in areas designated as national strategic special zones, are heavily concentrated in Osaka City, which accounts for roughly 90 percent of all such operations nationwide. However, persistent problems over noise, garbage disposal, and the behavior of guests have prompted a growing backlash from residents.

On December 17th, Osaka City submitted a proposal to the government to stop accepting new applications for special-zone minpaku on May 29th next year, and the plan has now been approved. Following formal certification by Prime Minister Takai, an official decision is expected by the end of this month. In addition to Osaka City, 29 other municipalities across Osaka Prefecture will also suspend new registrations.

Mayor Yokoyama said the city will strengthen monitoring and enforcement while working to ensure proper management of existing minpaku operations.

Source: KTV NEWS
The African Union (AU) underscored its commitment to spearheading the peace process in Sudan, emphasizing that sustainable solutions must follow the principle of African solutions to African problems.

AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, highlighted continuous coordination with the United Nations, through the UN Secretary-Generals Personal Envoy for Sudan to streamline efforts and avoid fragmented initiatives.

The African Union Peace and Security Council has developed a roadmap for ending the conflict, including high-level mechanisms to engage warring parties and civilian actors, with political and technical backing from the European Union. The AUs leadership faces challenges from parallel international initiatives, notably the U.S.-led Quad Mechanism, which includes Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the UAE.

Commissioner Adeoye stressed the need for an immediate ceasefire, national dialogue, and accountability for gross violations, while rejecting foreign interference. He also reaffirmed the AUs broader priorities, including counterterrorism, conflict prevention, and support for member states in strengthening security and sovereignty.
EXTON, Pa., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- First Resource Bank, a subsidiary of First Resource Bancorp, Inc. (OTCQX: FRSB), is proud to announce that it has been named Best Bank in Chester County for the ninth consecutive year by readers of the Daily Local News. This recognition reflects the Bank's unwavering commitment to excellence and its mission to be the bank that everyone loves by delivering exceptional value to customers, employees, shareholders, and the community every single day.

Coming off the heels of two other notable honors: being named a Best Places to Work company by the Philadelphia Business Journal and voted Best Bank on the Main Line by readers of the Main Line Times, these accolades underscore the Bank's dedication to both its team and the communities it serves.

"At First Resource Bank, excellence is at the heart of everything we do," said Lauren Ranalli, President, CEO, and Co-Founder. "This recognition is a true reflection of our team's dedication and the trust our community places in us. We remain committed to finding new ways to deliver exceptional service and to continue shining for a community that means so much to us."

First Resource Bank stands out as a trusted financial partner by combining customer-focused products with a deep commitment to the community. The Bank offers a wide range of free products designed to help customers keep more of their hard-earned money, while also prioritizing shared success for employees and shareholders to ensure sustainable growth and a strong local presence. In 2025 alone, First Resource Bank contributed over $500,000 to local schools, businesses, and civic organizations, and employees dedicated hundreds of volunteer hours to community initiatives. These efforts demonstrate the Bank's mission to create lasting value for the people and places it serves.

Discover why First Resource Bank continues to be Chester County's top choice. Visit http://www.firstresourcebank.com or stop by one of their branches today to learn more about their free products and community-focused banking solutions.

About First Resource Bank

First Resource Bank is a locally owned and operated Pennsylvania state-chartered bank, serving the banking needs of businesses, professionals and individuals in the Delaware Valley. The Bank offers a full range of deposit and credit services with a high level of personalized service. First Resource Bank also offers a broad range of traditional financial services and products, competitively priced and delivered in a responsive manner to small businesses, professionals and residents in the local market. For additional information visit our website at www.firstresourcebank.com. Member FDIC. Equal Housing Lender.

This press release contains statements that are not of historical facts and may pertain to future operating results or events or management's expectations regarding those results or events. These are "forward-looking statements" within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934. These forward-looking statements may include, but are not limited to, statements about our plans, objectives, expectations and intentions and other statements contained in this press release that are not historical facts. When used in this press release, the words "expects", "anticipates", "intends", "plans", "believes", "seeks", "estimates", or words of similar meaning, or future or conditional verbs, such as "will", "would", "should", "could", or "may" are generally intended to identify forward-looking statements. These forward-looking statements are inherently subject to significant business, economic and competitive uncertainties and contingencies, many of which are either beyond our control or not reasonably capable of predicting at this time. In addition, these forward-looking statements are subject to assumptions with respect to future business strategies and decisions that are subject to change. Actual results may differ materially from the results discussed in these forward-looking statements. Readers of this press release are accordingly cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements. First Resource Bank disclaims any intent or obligation to update publicly any of the forward-looking statements herein, whether in response to new information, future events or otherwise.

Correction: An earlier version of this release incorrectly does not include the company ticker.

SOURCE First Resource Bank
Airbus said it has signed a contract with Morocco for ten H22M helicopters which will be equipped for combat search & rescue operations and will be operated by the Royal Moroccan Air Force.

We are honored that Morocco has chosen to replace its legacy Puma fleet with the H225M, said Bruno Even, CEO of Airbus Helicopters in a press release issued Tuesday.

The Royal Moroccan Air Force H225Ms will be equipped with a double hoist installation, a searchlight and a Safran Euroflir 410 electro-optical system. They will be able to carry machine guns and an electronic warfare system for self-protection. The contract with Airbus Helicopters also includes a support and service package with connected services.

There are more than 360 H225s and H225Ms in service around the world, totaling close to 980,000 flight hours. Military customers include France, the Netherlands, Hungary, Brazil, Mexico, Singapore, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Iraq and Kuwait.

Airbus has had a presence in Morocco since 1951 through Airbus Atlantic, a wholly-owned Airbus subsidiary specializing in composite manufacturing, the assembly of complex metallic sub-assemblies, and the maintenance and support of avionics equipment.

In 2024, Airbus Helicopters announced the creation of a customer center in the Kingdom, providing support for the 60 Airbus helicopters in service with the Royal Moroccan Air Force, the Royal Navy, and the Royal Moroccan Gendarmerie. It will develop into a service center for maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) with new dedicated facilities and will become the regional center for Airbus helicopters in West Africa.
Algerias latest diplomatic maneuver is drawing scrutiny after Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf proposed that his country would back any mediation between Morocco and the Polisario Front over the Sahara dispute.

The offer, made during a press conference in Algiers, comes despite UN Security Council Resolution 2797 explicitly naming Algeria as a party to the conflict. Algeria hosts, finances, and arms the Polisario while obstructing progress toward a political solution.

The resolution, adopted by 11 votes in favor and none against, underscores the Moroccan autonomy plan under the Kingdoms sovereignty as the basis for negotiations and calls on all parties  Morocco, the Polisario, Algeria, and Mauritania  to engage constructively.

Algeria, which boycotted the vote, continues to insist it is merely a neighboring state, a claim increasingly at odds with the text of the resolution and decades of involvement in the dispute.

Algerias mediation proposal is in this context an attempt to reframe its role amid growing international consensus around Moroccos autonomy plan.

Attafs reaction is part of a narrative shift born of necessity as Algiers cannot block the negotiations process on the basis of autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty anymore.

Morocco made it clear that Algeria is the genuine party to the conflict that pulls the strings of the Polisario and that any negotiations process should involve Algiers.
The Gambia and Malawi have reiterated this Wednesday support for Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara and hailed the recent UN Security Council Resolution 2797 that enshrined the autonomy plan under the Kingdoms sovereignty.

The support was voiced by the Gambian and Malawian Foreign Ministers Sering Modou Njie and George Tapatula Chaponda at separate meetings they held this Wednesday in Rabat with their Moroccan peer Nasser Bourita.

The Gambian official reiterated his countrys consistent support for Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara, and keenly welcomed the adoption of Resolution 2797 which enshrines the autonomy initiative as the only solution for the settlement of this regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

We welcome the latest UN Security Council resolution consolidating the sovereignty of the Kingdom of Morocco over the Sahara, said the Gambian minister during a joint press briefing with Nasser Bourita, following their talks.

In this regard, the Gambian top diplomat reaffirmed his countrys consistent support for the Moroccan autonomy initiative, describing it as the only solution to the regional dispute over the Moroccan Sahara.

During his talks with Bourita, the head of Malawian diplomacy, who is on his first working visit Morocco, hailed as historic Resolution 2797, which consolidates, within the framework of Moroccan sovereignty, the autonomy plan proposed by the Kingdom as the only serious, credible, and lasting basis for reaching a political solution to the fabricated dispute over the Sahara.

He reaffirmed his countrys support for Moroccos territorial integrity and its sovereignty over its entire territory, including the Sahara, and praised the growing international consensus, as well as the momentum driven by King Mohammed VI in support of the Autonomy Plan and Moroccos sovereignty over its Sahara.

He further welcomed the longstanding relations between Morocco and Malawi, expressing his gratitude for the consistent support his country receives from the Kingdom.
The Algerian regimes hypocrisy has been exposed worldwide. Its fancy rhetoric of heroic battles against colonialism, over-inflated exceptionalism, and propaganda for Palestinian cause are just empty words. No more than political manipulations used to serve their own agenda.

Algeria, which arms, funds and shelters the Polisario separatist group threatening Moroccos stability, has voted lately at the UN Security Council for a resolution calling for Hamas disarmament. The vote has triggered widespread anger and condemnation among Palestinians, Arab, and Muslim countries.

Last month, Algeria did not even participate in UN Security Council Sahara vote endorsing Moroccos autonomy under the Kingdoms sovereignty. However, this week, Algiers has not only supported a resolution rejected by Palestinians themselves and all Arab and Muslim countries but it has also thanked Donald Trump for his peace efforts in a striking and pathetic act of hypocrisy.

The Algerian regime knows that its fate is intrinsically tied to that of the Polisario. So, to keep up its proxy group floating and prevent its dissolution under the growing American pressure, the Algerian rulers will not hesitate to sell their souls and even the whole country and the sky is the limit.

President Abdelmajid Tebboune has many times trumpeted that his country will never give up on protecting the Palestinian cause, repeating the slogan With Palestine, either oppressor or oppressed. But this propaganda proved to be just hot air as the Algerian junta has banned solidarity demonstrations with Palestinians, while rallies were organized in several capitals around the world for Gazans.

To weather the storm spurred by existential strategic miscalculations, the deceptive Algerian regime has pushed its foreign minister Ahmed Attaf to come out in a bid to explain the Algerian decision. However, he failed to justify the Algerian treason which has triggered swirling popular anger in social media networks as well as among some military generals, politicians, and militants.

The Algerian diplomat has also tried, to no avail, to cast doubts over Moroccos Sahara victory at UN Security Council which has dropped partition or referendum options, focusing instead on autonomy under Moroccan sovereignty.

Yet, Attaf gave a misleading reading of the resolution in a bid to convince the Algerian public opinion that his country has not lost the Western Sahara case after squandering over $500 billion petrodollars during the past five decades for nothing.
President Faure Gnassingbe of Togo is on an official visit to Moscow for talks with his Russian counterpart, Vladimir Putin, this Wednesday, November 19.

The agenda of this diplomatic meeting is primarily focused on regional security issues, particularly the intensification of terrorist threats in the Sahel region, where the presence of the Africa Corps grants Moscow a strategic position in the fight against terrorism.

This dialogue is part of the ongoing strengthening of bilateral military ties, with the Duma having finalized the ratification of a military cooperation framework agreement last October (October 2025), which provides for the training of the Togolese Armed Forces (FAT) and intelligence sharing. Furthermore, Russia indicated its intention to open an embassy in Lome, a strong signal of Togos growing strategic importance in Moscows African diplomacy.

Beyond defense matters, Faure Gnassingbes visit includes a significant economic component aimed at diversifying partnerships, with the presence of a private sector delegation. Discussions focus on new cooperation opportunities, including Russian investments in key projects for the Togolese economy, capitalizing on Lomes position as a sub-regional port hub.

A major issue is food security in West Africa and the sustainable supply of fertilizers, a sector where Russia is a key player. Togo seeks to obtain preferential quotas and strengthen technological cooperation for its fertilizer plant project, considering a bulk order involving several African countries to ensure a stable and affordable supply.
Renewable energies are exploding in emerging economies as the economics of wind and solar make it the obvious choice in most national and regional contexts. Whats more, the rapidly changing economics of renewables are not just saving money for developing countries, they could soon be making money in considerable sums in many emerging economies.

A recent study from Oxford University finds that low- and middle-income countries stand to benefit the most from adopting renewable energies, with potential GDP gains of around 10 percent in the next 2025 years if they implement a speedy enough transition. This renewable-fuelled economic growth is already underway. The report finds that renewable investments in the worlds 100 largest developing countries (not including China) contributed a combined $1.2 trillion to GDP growth between 2017 and 2022. For most of these nations, that equates to about 2-5 percent of GDP.

Renewable energy drives prosperity, reads the reports executive summary. Done well, it can expand affordable energy access, attract investment, create new jobs and increase productivity for the entire economy.

This is due to several compounding factors. First, renewables have become ridiculously cheap to install and operate. Solar energy, in particular, has seen an incredible economic evolution, with prices plummeting by a positively stunning 90 percent since 2010. Right now, silicon panels themselves are the same cost as plywood, Sam Stranks, Professor of Energy Materials & Optoelectronics at the University of Cambridge, recently told NewScientist. As a result, renewables are now a significantly better return on investment than fossil fuels. Plus, green energy spending tends to stay local, supporting more localized supply chains and more directly augmenting local incomes than fossil fuels, the report finds.

On top of this, renewables are better suited to rural and developing contexts in some key ways. Decentralized renewables like solar mini-grids or rooftop panels are also better at reaching more rural areas where grid connections can be pricey and faulty, summarizes Semafor.

For example, Pakistan is in the throes of a solar-power revolution as residents increasingly turn to solar-plus-battery systems as an affordable and reliable alternative to the spotty, pricey, and often unreachable local grid. Pakistan has quickly become one of the world's largest new adopters of solar power. "The scale of solar being deployed in such a short period of time has not been seen, I think, anywhere ever before, says Jan Rosenow, who leads the Environmental Change Institutes energy program at the University of Oxford.

And Pakistan is not alone. Emerging economies are adding renewable capacities at awe-inspiring rates. In recent years, countries including Brazil, Chile, El Salvador, Morocco, Kenya, and Namibia have overtaken the United States in their clean energy transitions, with 63 percent of emerging markets in Africa, Asia, and Latin America now sourcing more of their power generation from solar power than the U.S.

Some countries are pulling off stunningly fast energy transitions, adding solar so rapidly, its become a major source of electricity over the course of years  not decades, reports CNN.

This shift in the global energy sector comes, in large part, thanks to a flood of cheap renewable energy components from China. While there is some cause for concern that China is becoming increasingly powerful and influential in the energy sectors and overall economies of low- and middle-income countries, cheap Chinese supply chains have also transformed the energy sector in critically valuable ways. Without this access to affordable clean energies, these economies would be unable to develop sustainably without significant financial support. And while Western powers have suggested providing such support themselves, such promises for climate financing have routinely been broken.

Despite continued challenges faced by the clean energy transition and an anti-renewable policy shift in the worlds largest economy, it seems like renewables may simply be too cheap to fail. We have a plentiful and cheap source of electricity that can be built quickly, almost anywhere in the world, NewScientist recently posited. Is it fanciful to imagine that solar could one day power everything?

By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com

More Top Reads From Oilprice.com
The US and Great Britain are ramping up their efforts to secure the strategic advantage they created for the West in the Middle East by removing Russias key man in Syria, Bashar al-Assad, in December. A critical part of the political, economic, religious, and security fabric of the Middle East, it is also a crucial link from there to Africa in the south and to Europe in the West, by dint of its long Mediterranean coastline, as analysed in full in my latest book on the new global oil market order. The key to keeping Syria aligned with the West is to build up its economy with investment and on-the-ground help from Western firms, with a particular focus on the countrys previous main source of revenues  gas and oil exports. Handily for the West, such projects also legally allow for the stationing of security personnel on these sites into which investment is being funnelled, along with any other assets that the companies involved might think fit to secure their operations. Alongside these, Washington and London believe lessons were learned from previous forays into Iraq and Libya, wherein the Wests efforts in those countries were increasingly regarded as neo-Crusader-like occupations by the indigenous populace, the longer they persisted. Consequently, moves are being made this time around to obviate such objections through the presence of Arabic states happy to work alongside their Western counterparts. Cue the United Arab Emirates (UAE), whose powerhouse enterprise Dana Gas last week signed a preliminary deal with Syrias state oil company to look at redeveloping the countrys natural gas fields.

Related: Russian Crude Piles Up but Oil Prices Refuse to Move

Such fields were a foundation stone for Syrias economy for years, along with oil, and it suffered less damage than its hydrocarbon counterpart during the 13-year-long civil war. Before the outbreak of hostilities, Syrias gas output was around 316 billion cubic feet per day (bcf/d) of dry natural gas, with proven reserves of 8.5 trillion cubic feet (tcf). This had not gone unnoticed by Russia (along with its sizeable oil reserves and the strategic importance of its Mediterranean coastline), which had busily established a significant presence on the ground even before the civil war began in 2011. In fact, Stroytransgaz had begun the build-out of Syrias South-Central Gas Area in 2009, which by 2011 had boosted the countrys natural gas production by about 40%. This allowed Syrias combined gas and oil exports to generate a quarter of government revenues at that point, making it the eastern Mediterraneans leading oil and gas producer at the time. Following heavy military intervention from Russia to shore up then-President al-Assads position, Russia and Syria agreed on the 2015 Cooperation Plan that covered the restoration of at least 40 energy facilities in Syria (an initial focus on gas, but also including offshore oil fields), together with the build-out of the power sector. The deal also covered the full reconstruction and rehabilitation of the Aleppo thermal plant, the installation of the Deir Ezzor power plant and the expansion of capacity of the Mharda and Tishreen plants, with a view to re-energising Syrias power grid and restoring the main control centre for the grid back to Damascus. In short, from the Wests perspective, most of the groundwork for the expansion has already been done and paid for by Russia.

The same broadly applies to Syrias oil sector, as another element of the 2015 Russia-Syria Cooperation Plan included the repair and capacity-boosting upgrading of the Homs oil refinery (Syrias other was then in Banias). The Phase 1 target capacity was 140,000 barrels per day (bpd), Phase 2s was 240,000 bpd and Phase 3s was 360,000 bpd. The Russian intention was that it could also be used to refine Iranian oil coming through Iraq if needed, before onward shipment into southern Europe. Again, before the civil war began in 2011, Syria was a major oil producer, with output of around 400,000 bpd of crude oil from proved reserves of 2.5 billion barrels. Prior to that  before the recovery rate started to decline due to a lack of enhanced oil recovery techniques being employed at the major fields -- it had been producing nearly 600,000 bpd. Europe imported over US$3 billion of oil per year from Syria up to the beginning of 2011, and many European refineries were configured to process the heavy, sour Souedie crude oil that makes up much of Syrias output, with the remainder being the sweet and lighter Syrian Light grade. Most of this  some 150,000-bpd combined  went to Germany, Italy, and France, from one of Syrias three Mediterranean export terminals: Banias, Tartus, and Latakia. As an adjunct to this, a multitude of international oil companies were operating in Syrias energy sector, including the UKs Shell, Petrofac and Gulfsands Petroleum, Frances then-Total, the China National Petroleum Corporation, Indias Oil and Natural Gas Corp, Canadas Suncor Energy, and Russias Tatneft and Stroytransgaz.

With this infrastructure still largely in place, and gratifyingly paid for by Moscow, it is little wonder that U.S. President Donald Trump announced the lifting of Washingtons sanctions on Syrias gas and oil sector on 13 May. Great Britain and the European Union of 27 member countries had earlier done the same. Trump made the statement in Riyadh, which tied into his awareness of the necessity to keep other Middle Eastern states involved in Syrias future this time around. Indeed, Saudi Arabia has argued that a stabilised Syria would also be beneficial to it, allowing the Kingdom to embark on its own projects in the country and to move its own exports  including energy  through the country and into Europe. The same applies to the UAE  which, alongside Saudi Arabia, is one of the key Arabic countries Trump is keen to involve as stakeholders in Syria, and in his broader Middle Eastern strategy. This is focused on building a solid base of interconnected economic and then political relationships across the region, with the U.S. and its key allies at their centre. This was the original intention of the Abraham Accord deals between Arab states and Israel that Trump promulgated in his first term as president, as also analysed in full in my latest book on the new global oil market order. In this context, the UAEs Dana Gas has a perfect pedigree from the Wests perspective, as it has been instrumental in major gas redevelopment projects in two other key targets for the Wests new global oil order  Egypt and Iraq. In Iraq, it has been at the cutting edge of this geopolitical-energy nexus, operating successfully in the flashpoint semi-autonomous region of Kurdistan in Iraqs north. Only recently, for example, it announced the beginning of gas sales from the regions Khor Mor gas expansion project.

Ultimately, these latest moves in Syria should allow the U.S. and its allies to achieve three key results. First, it places these countries at the heart of Syrias economic renewal programme, which should allow them to cement their position in the policy directions the country takes from here. Second, it ties in key Arab countries into the regeneration of one of the regions longstanding key political, economic, religious and geographically important states. This should allow for an easier rollout of Trumps new consensus across the region through further Abraham Accord-like deals. And third, it denies Russia all these advantages. And in the zero-sum games of geopolitics and energy diplomacy, this is a huge victory for the West.

By Simon Watkins for Oilprice.com

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Is AI in a bubble? When will the bubble burst? Are there signs? Well, we dont have a crystal ball, but there are signs. On the markets, several prominent investors have spoken. Peter Thiel, one of the best-known tech investors, has sold his entire position in Nvidia. SoftBank, a huge Japanese tech investor is unloading its shares, too. Meanwhile, Michael Burry, of Big Short fame, warns of an impending bubble burst. And the head of Swedish fintech Klarna, a man with major AI holdings, said that hes thinking of hedging his positions in companies building AI infrastructure. Not that he thinks AI has no value, but rather that it can operate with a lot less computer power than implied by all the construction.

Were never sure about the motives of high profile investors. They may want to influence the market to serve their portfolio purposes, to send messages, put their estates in order, or take advantage of tax quirks, or maybe they are following the advice of that old Wall Street adage: Bulls make money and bears make money but pigs never make money. However, there are a few other signs.

The electric utilities that will sell to AI centers have started to make demands, such as long term (15 year) contracts, payments for incremental costs of serving AI centers and even deposits to be put in the line for service, because they suspect that many of these applications are no more than place savers in the queue, that is, as one report put it, phantom data centers. Then there is the problem of fast changing technology. The Chinese have developed simpler, more focused, less energy intensive AI, we believe. Will that endanger the economics of our AI industry if applied here? And what about changes in computer technology, such as quantum computing?

Related: U.S. Backs Nuclear Plant Restart as AI Power Demand Soars

Then, the CEO of BlueOrigin, Jeff Bezos rocket company, made his prediction, that data centers were better located in space, where power would be abundant, and the data could be beamed down to earth. He said that the technology to do so was available and the move would happen within our lifetimes but he then narrowed that down to within the next five to 10 years. Before you brush this off, consider that NASA was considering power in space and on the moon more than two decades ago, but decided to do other things.

Now, lets return to the decision making process in the electricity business. If investors (especially lenders) get cold feet, many of these centers wont get financed or might not be completed. As for the ones that are completed, do you want to recover your investment over a 15-year contract (or worse, the usual utility depreciation life of 30 plus years ) when your customer might be filing for bankruptcy in the next tech wreck? Serving data centers on a regulated basis will create a concentrated risk for the utilities whose cost will eventually be passed on to customers, who are already suffering from price increases unrelated to AI. Which is why we believe that AI should fund its own electricity system. The utilities can always manage it for them.

Are we daft, thinking that rocketeers or Chinese enterprises or computer geeks developing stuff that barely works now will affect the future of the biggest boom to the economy that weve seen in decades or that a few financial naysayers will stem the flow of money to the AI centers? (Next year, the top AI firms are predicted to spend $500 billion, which is twice as much as the electric industry spends in a year. The ratio of sales to capital expenditure for the big AI builds has halved from 2023 to 2025.)

On the other hand, isnt it daft to believe that all this money pouring into fixed assets for a fast changing technological service will produce adequate remuneration? Technology firms traditionally do not do steel and concrete. The product changes too fast. What might explain what is going on? How about FOMO for lemmings? But back to the electric companies. Lets say the demand does not materialize as much as expected (our favored scenario), or worse, it materializes, and then fades away. Those contracts become hard to enforce. That nuclear plant ordered to meet the new demand turns into a white elephant, the most expensive unit on the system. Prices go up to support unneeded infrastructure. As we said before, serving AI on a regulated basis increases the risk level and probably increases prices as well, and the other customers dont need that.

To sum up, there are the developments to watch:

Easy access to equity capital (everyone wants to invest).

Overbuilding (everyone wants to build a data center ).

Underutilized data centers (what happens when there are more data centers than needed).

Shifting the risk to the utilities (they put up the infrastructure to serve, and if demand does not materialize, they foot the bill which they pass on to their customers).

Rising prices (overall prices up and electricity prices up more).

Political backlash (sense that the regulator failed, as evidenced by the Georgia electorate demanding change).

Heres the odd thing. If investors get antsy and cut off easy access to capital, the bubble will burst, then there wont be overbuilding or underutilized data centers, and that will reduce the risk to utilities and the pressure on prices, thereby lessening pressure on regulators. Of course a lot of people will lose a lot of money all at once, and the biggest industrial boom the country has seen in ages will end, and there goes the growth story for utilities.

Well, as we said before, we are not making predictions, just pointing out that AI entails risks for the utilities and their customers without clear offsetting benefits.

By Leonard Hyman and William Tilles for Oilprice.com

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AKRON, Ohio, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- FirstEnergy Corp. (NYSE: FE) has earned national recognition from Forbes, securing spots on two respectable lists for 2026: America's Most Trusted Companies and America's Best Companies. These honors reflect FirstEnergy's ongoing commitment to operational excellence, customer service and creating a positive workplace culture.

Brian X. Tierney, President and CEO of FirstEnergy: "Recognition from Forbes highlights the importance of our ongoing efforts to strengthen our company for our employees, customers and communities we serve. We're focused on building trust through meaningful investments in reliability and by supporting initiatives that make a difference in people's daily lives. This acknowledgement of success motivates us to continue making improvements that benefit everyone who depends on FirstEnergy."

How Forbes Evaluates Top Companies

Forbes' America's Most Trusted Companies list recognizes organizations viewed as honest, reliable and ethical by the public. The rankings are based on an independent survey of U.S. residents who evaluate companies they are familiar with on qualities like transparency, ethical practices and reliability. To qualify, companies must be publicly traded in the U.S. with more than 1,000 employees. Out of 2,000 eligible businesses, the top 300 are selected based on ratings of trust from employees, customers, investors and the media. For a full list of rankings, view Forbes' America's Most Trusted Companies 2026 list.

Similarly, the America's Best Companies list highlights organizations that excel in employee satisfaction, customer experience and financial strength. Forbes, working with research partners, evaluates thousands of U.S. companies using more than 60 measures across 11 categories. From this comprehensive analysis, the top 500 are chosen, spotlighting companies that consistently deliver value and maintain a strong reputation. For a full list of rankings, view Forbes' America's Best Companies 2026 list.

Strengthening Infrastructure and Uplifting Communities

FirstEnergy's recognition by Forbes comes during a year of significant progress and investment in both its electric system and the communities it serves. In 2025 alone, the company plans to invest $5.5 billion to modernize its power grid, enhancing reliability and reducing the impact of outages. These enhancements are part of Energize365, which is FirstEnergy's $28 billion investment program through 2029.

At the same time, the FirstEnergy Foundation contributed more than $5.5 million to support local programs and initiatives across the company's six-state service area, underscoring its commitment to strengthening infrastructure and improving quality of life for customers and communities. Over the past two years, FirstEnergy employees have contributed more than 40,000 volunteer hours across the company's service territory, working with local organizations to help provide food, shelter and other vital support to community members most in need.

About FirstEnergy

FirstEnergy Corp. is dedicated to integrity, safety, reliability and operational excellence. Its electric distribution companies form one of the nation's largest investor-owned electric systems, serving more than six million customers in Ohio, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, West Virginia, Maryland and New York. The company's transmission subsidiaries operate approximately 24,000 miles of transmission lines that connect the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. Follow FirstEnergy online at www.firstenergycorp.com and on X @FirstEnergyCorp.

SOURCE FirstEnergy Corp.
Iraqis voted in a parliamentary election on 11 November and, though pre-election surveys predicted a record-low turnout, the final total turnout was 56.11% according to the Independent High Electoral Commission. (Turnout for the 2021 parliamentary election was 43.3%.)

Incumbent prime minister Mohammed Shia' al-Sudanis Construction and Development Coalition, won 46 seats in the 329-seat Council of Representatives of Iraq.

Now the election is over and Sudani faces the task of building a governing coalition. (After the 2021 election, it took one year to form a government.) 38 political parties won seats in the contest, so Iraqs complex political landscape will demand negotiation and consensus building to form a government. Other major winners are former prime minister Nouri Al-Maliki (Shia/State of Law Coalition), former parliament speaker Mohammed al-Halbussi (Sunni/Taqadom (Progress) party), former militia leader Qais al-Khazali (Shia/Sadiqoun Movement), and the Kurdistan Democratic Party.

Whoever can corral enough support to become Iraqs next prime minister faces four major challenges: the water crisis, public finances, U.S. relations, and regional entanglement with Iran.

Managing the Water Crisis

Iraqs most immediate problem is water scarcity. It depends on Turkey and Iran for nearly 75% of its freshwater through the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, which originate upstream. Torhan al-Mufti, Sudanis advisor on water affairs, warns that Iraqs vulnerability stems from these transboundary flows.

There is some good news: according to Mufti, water inflows from Turkey to the Tigris have doubled in two years. And Iraq is taking proactive steps, such as the November 2025 Iraq-Turkey water agreement that introduces a five-year water management mechanism between the two nations. Under the deal, Turkey will oversee and manage water releases and related infrastructure rehabilitation, including dams and distribution systems, during this period, after which control will revert to Iraq.

Related: Pakistan to Launch Artificial Offshore Island To Jump-Start Oil Exploration

Nevertheless, 2025 has been Iraqs driest year since 1933. Rainfall shortages and Turkish and Iranian dam projects reduced Tigris and Euphrates water levels by up to 27%. Reservoirs now hold less than 8 billion cubic meters, their lowest volume in over eight decades.

In September, the government suspended wheat planting due to insufficient water. Southern Iraq, particularly Basra, home to 3.5 million people, faces a growing humanitarian crisis as residents rely on trucked-in water.

Weak Public Finances

Iraq's economy relies on oil revenues, which comprise over 90% of Iraqs federal budget and expose the country to global price fluctuations, geopolitical tensions, and production quotas from OPEC+. Of total government spending, operational expenses (including public employee salaries) were 94%, while only 6% was for investment expenditures.

This reliance has intensified amid declining oil prices throughout the year, straining the 2025 budget and prompting calls for fiscal tightening. Iraq sells about 35% of its exports to China, making it vulnerable to Chinas economic slowdown and Washingtons anti-China policies.

Sudanis government added 370,000 employees to the public and expanded the social safety net to ease public discontent and stabilize politics temporarily, but at the cost of avoiding reforms and entrenching patronage networks.

Iraqs energy sector is becoming more efficient and is a source of future savings. Baghdad is working to end natural gas flaring by 2027 and use it for domestic power generation, eliminating the need to import it  some from Iran, which required Washington to waive sanctions. This will save USD4 billion annually. Iraq is now self-reliant in many petrol products, including gasoline, diesel, and kerosene, and Sudani has ordered a halt to imports, saving up to USD10 billion annually.

Rather than always banking on higher oil prices, Baghdad is working to diversity the economy. The 2024-2028 development plan aims reduce reliance on oil, attract foreign investment, and expand sectors like infrastructure, agriculture, and finance. Iraqs Development Road project aims to reduce oil dependence by making the country a trade corridor between Asia and Europe, though it may faces security challenges and resistance from neighbors hosting competing projects.

Balancing Relations with the U.S.

U.S. troops withdrew from Iraq in 2011 but returned in 2014 to fight the Islamic State (ISIS). Washington pledged to achieve the enduring defeat of ISIS - a mission to justify a long-term presence.

Under a recent agreement, U.S. combat forces began withdrawing in September 2025, with a full exit expected by September 2026. However, small contingents will remain in Iraqi Kurdistan and at Ain al-Asad Air Base to assist in counterterrorism operations.

In October, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged Sudani to disarm Iran-backed militias that undermine Iraqs sovereignty, which Baghdad considers different than the Popular Mobilization Forces (PMF) - a 240,000-strong force state institution established under Iraqi law that was formed to fight ISIS. The U.S. pressured Iraqi lawmakers to withdraw legislation that would place the PMF fully under government control, though internal disagreements also helped doom the bill. Sudani recently declared the armed groups have two options: join the official security institutions or transition to [unarmed] political work.

Complicating the American demands and formation of a governing coalition is that three militia-aligned parties (Sadiqoun Movement, Badr Organization, and Huquq Movement) won 51 seats, a significant share of the Shia bloc of 184 seats. The Sadiqoun Movement is the political wing of Asa'ib Ahl al-Haq, which has been designated by the U.S. as a Foreign Terrorist Organization; its leader, al-Khazali, has been personally sanctioned by the U.S. for his involvement in attacks on U.S. and Coalition personnel and their alignment with Irans Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps.

And the militias are no threat to the Iraqi state because, as Ameer Al-Auqaili notes, Militias no longer threaten to overthrow the state because they have, in many ways, become the state. They control ministries, direct security forces, and dominate economic landscapes, using the ballot box to validate their existing power.

If the new government passes legislation that puts the PMF fully under government control, that will strain relations with the Americans. However, Washington is in no position to complain about political parties that openly win power at the ballot box, especially while U.S. President Donald Trump fetes a former al-Qaeda member who fought American forces in Iraq, and is now the unelected (transitional) president of Syria, at the White House.

The invasion and occupation of Iraq cost the Americans over 4,400 dead and over US$3 trillion. The U.S. now faces The Meddlers Trap - a self-inflicted cycle in which intervention creates new problems that policymakers feel compelled to manage indefinitely. Iraq remains caught in this dynamic: Washington wants to leave but cannot bear the risks of doing so.

Keeping Iraq Out of the U.S.Iran Conflict

A third challenge for Iraqs next government is avoiding entanglement in the long-running U.S.Iran rivalry. Since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, Washington has sought to reverse what it sees as a national humiliation: the overthrow of its ally, the Shah of Iran, and the 444-day hostage crisis that followed, that may have swayed the 1980 presidential election.

Over the decades, both sides have waged a shadow war - from sanctions and cyberattacks to assassinations and economic sanctions. Irans ballistic missile, drone, and nuclear programs are now American justifications for continued containment.

In June 2025, U.S. airstrikes targeted three Iranian nuclear facilities. Trump claimed the operation obliterated Irans nuclear program, though American military intelligence wasnt so sure. Meanwhile, Israel, Americas closest ally in the region, has reportedly continued assassinations and covert operations against Iranian scientists and facilities.

Iraq risks becoming a battleground by proxy. In May 2025, U.S. congressmen Joe Wilson and Greg Steube advocated sanctioning Iraq as part of the maximum pressure campaign on Iran. They advocated sweeping penalties on the PMF, much of Iraqs banking and oil sectors, the Minister of Finance, Irans facilitators in Iraq, the chief justice of Iraqs Federal Supreme Court, and former prime ministers - a decapitation attack on Iraqs economy and sovereignty.

The International Institute for Strategic Studies observes, Iraq has successfully maintained neutrality, navigating regional tensions through diplomatic restraint rather than military engagement. Iraq pushed for ceasefires in Lebanon and Palestine, facilitated aid delivery to Gaza and Lebanon, and had a hand in the recent Iran-Saudi Arabia reconciliation.

The slogan of Sudanis political project is "Iraq First," but to Washington Iraq is a tool for pressuring Iran, all the money and dead soldiers the justification for Americas droit du seigneur; but this dynamic threatens Iraqs national stability. The next prime minister must strengthen the economy and state institutions to successfully navigate between the U.S. and Israel and neighboring Iran to preserve Iraqs fragile independence.

Balancing domestic needs with foreign pressures - especially from the United States and Iranwill define Iraqs future far more than the elections immediate outcome.

By James Durso for Oilprice.com

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Alaskas production outlook is shifting for the first time in nearly a decade, with the U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) on Wednesday projecting that North Slope crude output will rise by some 13% next year as two large fields move into high-volume phases.

This would mark the strongest annual increase since the 1980s and a rare break from the long decline that has steadily reduced throughput on the Trans-Alaska Pipeline (TAPS). The agency ties the anticipated jump to new wells and extended-reach drilling tied to major North Slope projects, which are expected to push daily output to around 540,000 barrels and temporarily stabilize the states struggling production base.

Alaskas projected increase in crude output arrives at the same time the state is revisiting its long-planned pipeline and LNG export megaproject, a project revived under President Donald Trump and now back on the table after years of stalled progress. The plan calls for an 800-mile gas line from the North Slope to a liquefaction terminal on the southern coast, opening a route for both domestic supply and Asian export.

With the EIA expecting new North Slope volumes to peak in 2026, state officials argue that the timing strengthens the case for moving the project into a new development phase.



Alaskas long-standing challenge has been the gap between large undeveloped resources on the North Slope and the limited infrastructure available to move those volumes to market. According to the EIA, even with the expected increase in crude output, most North Slope gas remains without a commercial route, which is why state officials continue to link upstream momentum to the case for the pipeline and LNG terminal.

The project has cycled through repeated attempts at financing and federal support over the past decade, but the combination of higher forecast production and renewed White House backing has given Anchorage its first opening in years to bring the plan forward.

By Tom Kool for Oilprice.com

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As many as 82 countries called for a clear roadmap toward the phase-out of fossil fuels at the global climate summit COP30 in Brazilbut the European Union, which aims to lead by example in the global push to net zero, was not among these.

At the summit in Belem, Brazil, many EU countries backed the 82-nation-strong push to ditch fossil fuels, but the EU-27 did not formally support the initiative as such backing needs the unanimous approval of all 27 member states, Politico reports.

Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the energy crisis felt in many EU member states, the EUs internal cohesion has faltered as some countries have prioritized energy security and affordability to near-term sustainability targets.

Some northwest EU member states expressed support to the COP30 initiative, but there was no unanimous EU backing.

This is completely in the EU interest, Jennifer Morgan, the former climate envoy for Germany, told Politico.

So I'm quite puzzled that there are evidently a couple of member states that are nervous about this, Morgan added.

Wopke Hoekstra, the EU Climate Commissioner, told Politico, commenting on the COP30 initiative, Our energy transition in the EU is a transitioning away from fossil fuels on which we have been doing a lot and will continue to do so. It is great others see the merit in this as well.

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Earlier this month, the EU proposed, and the European Parliament backed, flexibilities in the EUs interim 2040 climate goals.

The target of a 90% reduction in net greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, compared to 1990 levels, combines competitiveness and security, said Lars Aagaard, Denmarks minister for climate, energy and utilities.

The flexibility allows EU member states to outsource 5% of the reduction target to countries outside the bloc via so-called carbon credits.

The EU Parliament approval means that it is now ready to start negotiations with member states on the final shape of the law.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Pakistan is preparing to launch its most unconventional offshore campaign yet in the form of a purpose-built artificial island in the Arabian Sea that will act as a fixed platform for deep exploration work. The project, led by Pakistan Petroleum Ltd (PPL), aligns with Islamabads renewed push to reverse years of declining domestic crude supply.

According to Gulf News, the government has approved the construction of an artificial island some 30 kilometres off the Sindh coast, designed to support rigs, storage and heavy-equipment staging. The island will be built above high-tide levels to ensure uninterrupted drilling operations. PPL expects construction to finish early next year, followed directly by spud-in of the first well.

PPL plans to use the island as a launch point for up to 25 wells, modeled on similar artificial-island drilling systems used in Abu Dhabi. The structure is meant to eliminate the wave-load exposure that stalled prior offshore wells before they reached target depth.

Analysis from Mettis Global notes that shifting heavy-equipment logistics onto a fixed base could reduce contingency spending by as much as one-third, which is a significant advantage for a basin in which weather-related delays have repeatedly produced cost overruns.

The new offshore buildout aligns with Islamabads broader licensing overhaul, which includes 23 recently awarded offshore blocks. The government is using the awards to accelerate frontier drilling in deepwater acreage long considered too costly and technically risky, and officials say the new terms are designed to pull in multi-year capital commitments after a decade of weak investment.

Pakistans new round of offshore awards adds fresh acreage to a sector that has seen repeated interruptions and limited follow-through on earlier campaigns. The government says the latest blocks are meant to restart work in deepwater areas that have remained largely untouched, with operators expected to advance into drilling once the initial survey requirements are completed.

Engineering tenders for Pakistans artificial island are expected to be finalized within months, setting up the countrys first sustained offshore drilling campaign in more than a decade.

By Charles Kennedy for Oilprice.com

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Serbias only refinery Naftna Industrija Srbije (NIS), majority owned by Russian state energy firms and sanctioned by the United States, said on Wednesday it had applied for a special U.S. license to continue operations until talks for an ownership change conclude.

On Tuesday, NIS submitted a new request to the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) of the U.S. Department of the Treasury for the issuance of a special license that would enable the company to operate without disruptions, the Serbian company said.

Gazprom Neft and Gazprom affiliates hold a majority stake in NIS, with the Serbian state owning the remaining 29.9%.

The U.S. has waived the sanctions against NIS several times since it included it in the sanctions on Russias oil industry in January this year. The sanctions on the Russia-owned refinery in Serbia came into effect in early October as the last waiver expired.

Last week, OFAC issued a license until February 13, 2026, which only authorized negotiations between shareholders and other interested parties regarding changes in NISs ownership structure.

In line with the current status of negotiations between the shareholders and the interested parties, a request was sent to OFAC for a new license that would allow the Company to continue its operations while discussions on a sustainable solution for NIS are underway, the refinery said.

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Last week, reports emerged that Hungarian oil company MOL is close to buying an 11.3% stake in Serbias refinery from its Russian owners.

Since the last U.S. waiver expired on October 8, banks have stopped processing NIS-related payments and Croatias JANAF pipeline has halted deliveries of crude oil to the refinery. The JANAF pipeline from Croatia had been Serbias primary supply line for Russian and Kazakh crude since 2022.

Without new supply of crude, the NIS refinery can operate only until November 25, according to Serbian officials.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Russian Novatek, the owner and operator of Arctic LNG and Arctic LNG 2, is offering steep discounts to Chinese buyers of energy commodities to move its gas, Reuters has reported, citing unnamed sources.

According to these sources, the Russian company has slashed prices by between 30% and 40% since August for gas produced at the Arctic LNG 2 facility, which is scheduled for a maximum capacity of 19.8 million tons. Prior to the discounts, it had not sold any cargoes, the sources said.

Arctic LNG 2 began liquefying gas in late 2023, which was the year the Biden administration imposed sanctions on the facility in a bid to pressure Russias key energy industry. The European Union has also sanctioned Novatek.

The sanctions have cut off the Russian companys access to Western funding and shipping insurance, but, like oil exporters, it has found alternatives. So, despite the sanctions, exports of liquefied gas from Arctic LNG 2 began in August 2024 and continued until November, before the weather and, per Bloomberg in October, lack of buyers, put a temporary end to the shipments.

According to Reuters, however, the first cargo that Novatek sold from the Arctic LNG 2 plant only loaded this year, in August, after it started discounting the gas. The discounts put the price tag of the cargoes sold so far at between $28 million and $32 million, much lower than the market price of $44 million and above.

Novatek ships LNG to China via the Northern Sea Route, which significantly reduces the time needed to make the journey from exporter to importer. The drawback is that the Northern Sea Route is only usable for a relatively short period during the Arctic summer. Thanks to the availability of this route, however, Novatek has been shipping LNG steadily to China, boasting record production for August.

By Irina Slav for Oilprice.com

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The U.S. Department of Energy is extending a $1-billion loan to help Constellation Energy restart the Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear reactor to add baseload power to the grid and help the AI advancement in the United States.

Funded by the Energy Dominance Financing Program, this interest-bearing loan will lower Constellation's cost of financing and leverage private investment to restore reliable nuclear energy to the grid and help America win the AI race, said Constellation Energy, the biggest owner of U.S. nuclear power plants.

Last year, Constellation signed its largest-ever power purchase agreement with Microsoft, which paved the way for the restart of the Three Mile Island Unit 1 nuclear plant.

The 20-year agreement paves the way for the launch of the Crane Clean Energy Center (CCEC) with the restart of Three Mile Island Unit 1, Constellation said in September 2024.

Three Mile Island Unit 1 operated for decades before being shut down for economic reasons six years ago.

Under the deal, Microsoft will purchase energy from the restarted unit as part of its goal to help match the power its data centers in PJM use with carbon-free energy. The clean energy center is expected to be online in 2028.

In todays statement on the DOE loan for the Crane Clean Energy Center, Constellation president and CEO Joe Dominguez said that It's a great example of how America first energy policies create jobs, growth and opportunities and make the grid more reliable.

Utilities and grid operators are moving too slowly and need to make regulatory changes that will allow our nation to unlock its abundant energy potential. Constellation and nuclear energy are helping to lead the way and we are thankful to President Trump and Secretary Wright for putting the 'energy' back into DOE, Dominguez added.

Nuclear energy will be one of the winners of the AI and data center boom, as Microsoft and other hyperscalers have been looking to purchase zero-carbon electricity to power up their data centers, which are consuming growing amounts of electricity.

By Tsvetana Paraskova for Oilprice.com

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Reclining on stage at the 26th COP summit in his native Glasgow, Alan Jope was at home both literally and spiritually.

The Unilever chief executive had spent three years establishing himself as one of the corporate worlds most passionate climate and diversity advocates, vowing to accelerate predecessor Paul Polmans environmental, social and governance leadership. And with his company a principal partner at the biggest climate summit in history, the Scotsmans efforts had reached their natural apogee.

We think there are three existential challenges in the world: climate change, the loss and destruction of nature, and growing inequality, he told a Bloomberg Green event. None of these issues are good for our business so Ive been delighted to see the representation of business here in Glasgow.

Corporate presence was  as the Uni-lifer observed  hard to miss at the environmental jamboree of the year; one which the then Prime Minister Boris Johnson had billed as the worlds moment of truth. Outside the main hangar, pharma giant GSK had installed an inflatable air purifier. Utilities giant SSE had commissioned an entire Imax screening event  called Hydro  devoted to hydroelectric power. And in the world of haute couture, Stella McCartneys Future of Fashion exhibition showcased her labels efforts to leverage the limitless possibilities of material innovation.

Where have all the suits gone?

Four years on, with the 30th iteration of the annual Conference of the Parties (COP) in Brazil now in its second week, the agenda items that range from youth-led climate forums and fraught political negotiations look similar to those at Scotlands edition in 2021. Environment ministers, official delegations and third-sector titans are, as they were in Glasgow, also out in force. What is missing, however, are the clean-cut executives and no-cost-spared marketing stunts from the blue-chip firms  and their consultants  that viewed the 2021 summit as the consummate platform for burnishing their green credentials.

Before, if you werent doing something around COP, then questions would be asked, said one senior corporate affairs executive. Now its totally different.

My clients have definitely sent fewer people to this years summit, added a director at a UK-based PR agency. Expense is a massive reason, but so is the political environment.

What is COP30?

Organised under the auspices of the United Nations, COP has, for decades, been the worlds best-attended, and most consequential environmental gathering. Since its establishment at a 1992 treaty signed in Rio de Janeiro, an assortment of presidents, prime ministers, chief executives and campaigners have descended on a different city each year to agree how best to limit the effects and extent of whats become known as the climate crisis.

Over three decades it became a temple to the political consensus which held that the changing climate posed an existential threat to humanity, and that the world  largely via a series of agreements at COP  needed to do everything it could to stop it. Heads of state would use the jamboree as a platform to commit their nations to ambitious transition targets. Campaigners would make hay from the eyes of the worlds science and environmental media being trained on one place at the same time. And executives would trumpet the painstaking but important lengths to which their companies were going to reduce their own contribution to the crisis at hand.

But as the world exited from the pandemic and entered the energy price shock of 2022, that consensus was punctured. Aided by the outbreak of a hot war in Europe  and an aggressive rate-hiking cycle from the western worlds central banks  lawmakers priorities evolved from energy sustainability to energy security.

Drill, baby, drill

Initially, that shift happened quietly  and even sheepisly. Or at least it did until, last year, the man vying to be the 47th President of the United States turned climate into one of the most salient topics of the primary and presidential campaigns.

Efforts to boost green energy were, Donald Trump said during the primaries, a scam. Instead the US needed to drill, baby, drill if it wanted to improve living standards, maintain its position as the worlds largest natural gas exporter and keep energy prices down.

Since taking office in January, the president as followed through on his unstinting rhetoric. He quickly sought to block all offshore wind projects  even those that were very close to completion  and launched a legislative tirade against companies that set ESG targets and strategies.

Political climate keeps firms away from COP

According to Charlie Tarr, chief executive of corporate affairs consultancy Woodrow, the direction in which Trump has taken his second term is the primary reason for firms low-key turnout this year.

The glossy pavilions, the huge delegations, the climate grandstanding that weve seen in previous years is just over, he says. Now, weve got caution, weve got minimalism, weve got private conversations. US politics has weaponised climate as a culture war issue. That has fundamentally changed the calculus for corporate visibility.

Where once firms would once dispatch six or seven senior staff, this year they are sending two, Tarr adds. And where chief executives used to block their calendar months in advance to be seen on a panel with a former presidential candidate or feted naturalist, now they are more likely to delegate that job to their senior sustainability officer.

One senior PR executive, who worked with several blue-chip firms in the run-up to Glasgows COP, said the judgement call Western firms made in 2021 was, if your business wasnt doing something big around it, consumers and shareholders would demand to know why.

We had entire COP strategies that fleshed out how we were going to engage with stakeholders, working out the business opportunities on the ground, etc, she said. Association with it was almost universally positive.

Another PR agency director added: It has dropped off the agenda of, for example, the big asset managers, and big banks who will have occasionally dipped their toe into COPs in the past.

Logistical and political difficulties

But according to some, the lack of corporate representation is not just down to the fresh political scrutiny emanating from the White House.

Michael Hartt, who leads international affairs at Fleishmanhillard and is advising several firms on their COP 30 communications strategies, said the logistical issues around this years summit, which is being held in the heart of the Amazon, are just as important as politics.

A mix of practical factors. and wider forces, including political pressure in some countries means some companies have adjusted their presence, he told City AM.

And according to others, a patchy track record, and several missteps including controversial locations, meant firms were beginning to lose faith in the value the summit brings to the climate debate, and its track record for delivery amid a testing macroeconomic backdrop.

Theres no doubt that were seeing [clients] row back on COP engagement, said Imogen Sackey, senior associate director at the Romans. But I think it reflects a bigger question about COPs role in global climate leadership.

[It] feels increasingly abstract and were seeing businesses afraid to break the binary between good for business and good for the planet, she added.

Firms finding COP outlay harder to justify

That binary trade-off may  as Sackey claims  be myopic, but it is a core component of executives decision-making. As the era of cheap money that characterised the post-financial crisis global economy shuddered to a halt in 2022, corporates across the world tighten their belts.

Shareholder primacy returned to the ascendancy. And shareholders, for their part, relearned the importance of a robust bottom line. All of which meant blue-chip firms, many of whom had recruited rapidly over the pandemic, felt forced to cut back on staff levels, employee benefits and marketing spend to sate increasingly scrupulous investors.

Looking at large-cap companies  and including S&P500 businesses  they are just scaling back, said Woodrows Tarr. Theyre wary of optics on cost-grounds because some have been been laying people off.

One company keeping a markedly lower profile at this years instalment  and which has, itself, been engaged in a major cost-cutting drive  is Alan Jopes erstwhile employer, Unilever.

The consumer giant has  like many in its category  been on a striking financial and rhetorical journey since the Glaswegian stepped down at the end of 2023. After years of underperformance, Jopes replacement, Hein Schumacher, scaled back the firms ambitious climate targets just four months into the job, saying the group needed to be more focused in its allocation of resources.

His successor, Fernando Fernandez, has doubled down on that direction. In his first set of public remarks in September, the new chief executive conceded that Unilever had lost its focus on volume growth, blasting the many pockets of mediocrity that existed in the companys ranks.

Despite having led the firms Brazilian division for nearly 10 years, Fernandez will not be showing his face at COP 30. Instead, his focus for the firm was made abundantly clear in a Linkedin post published just a fortnight before COP got underway.

We know what we need to do to make Unilever a marketing and sales machine, and we are doing it at speed, he wrote in late October. Lets go!

By Ali Lyon for CityAM

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House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer Condemns Democrats Decision to Use $7.5 Million in Emergency Funding for Planned Parenthood

By Oregon State House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer,

SALEM, Ore.  Today, House Republican Leader Lucetta Elmer (R-McMinnville) condemned the decision by Democrat lawmakers to use $7.5 million from the Emergency Fund for the Oregon Health Authority to fund Planned Parenthood facilities.

Democrats argue the decision was necessary in lieu of federal Medicaid funds no longer available to fund Planned Parenthood until at least July 2026 per President Trumps House Resolution 1. However, Oregon does not face a gap in access to reproductive health care services without its Planned Parenthood affiliates. Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) provide all non-abortion reproductive health care services Planned Parenthood claims, with 270 locations across the state.

Further, taxpayers funded 81% of Oregon abortions from 2021-2025  a nearly 80% increase from 2013-2015, in which taxpayers funded 45% of Oregon abortions  despite a recent poll showing that 53% of taxpayers oppose their dollars being used for abortion.

Given the availability and access to other clinics that provide reproductive health care services and Oregons strained financial climate, using emergency funding for Planned Parenthood is neither urgent nor necessary, said Leader Elmer. We need to stop the political posturing and get back to listening to what Oregonians want  and use their tax dollars accordingly.


Revenue Forecast Confirms No Justification for Higher Taxes

Oregon Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr,

SALEM, Ore.  Todays quarterly revenue forecast revealed that Oregons ending balance is now projected at $63.1 million, an improvement of $309.5 million from the previous forecast.

The latest numbers make one thing clear: there is absolutely no reason for the majority party to tax workers overtime or tips, or to enact more policies that would drive more Oregon businesses to other states as they had planned. A $63.1 million deficit is a drop in the bucket for a state with a $140 billion budget, said Senate Republican Leader Bruce Starr (R-Dundee). People are already stretched thin, and they need relief, not new burdens.

The economic picture for everyday Oregonians is worsening. The forecast shows wages declining, and key industries like manufacturing, trades, and construction continue to bleed jobs while government and government-subsidized sectors expand.

Recent reporting from The Oregonian shows just how serious the job market has become: employers have averaged more than 600 layoffs per month in 2025, comparable to the job losses seen during the Great Recession when Oregons unemployment rate exceeded 11%.

Additionally, market research from Public Opinion Strategies conducted in September found that two-thirds of Oregon voters believe the states economy is on the wrong track. Among employed Oregonians surveyed:

A majority are pessimistic about the job market.

Two-thirds expect stagnant or declining wages.

Two-thirds say it would be difficult to find a similar job if they left their current one.

Over half say they would consider leaving Oregon for a new job.

Over half say they would likely explore relocating to another state to find work.

This is why Oregonians have shown up in huge numbers throughout 2025, pleading with this legislature and this governor not to pass a $4.3 billion tax hike, Starr added. People are struggling. Our economy will recover not through higher taxes and more regulation, but by investing in policies that help our state grow and innovate.
China studies contributes to mutual learning and shared development

09:13, November 19, 2025 By He Yin ( People's Daily

Foreign tourists make lacquer fans in an ancient town in Deqing county, Huzhou, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Yao Haixiang)

Chinese President Xi Jinping recently replied to a letter from 61 young sinologists from 51 countries, who attended the 2025 World Chinese Language Conference in Beijing. Xi encouraged these young sinologists to continue to present a true, multi-dimensional and panoramic view of China to the world, contributing their wisdom and strength to building a community with a shared future for humanity.

His message reflects China's enduring commitment in the new era to openness, inclusiveness and mutual learning among civilizations, laying a cultural foundation for global cooperation.

Originating in China and belonging to the world, China studies represents a shared intellectual heritage of humankind. Over generations, sinologists have produced scholarly contributions that transcend time and cultural boundaries.

The evolution of China studies mirrors global historical trends. As one Argentine scholar noted, "More than 20 years ago, studying China could feel lonely; today almost everyone is talking about China." This remark highlights the growing global interest in China.

In recent years, an increasing number of international scholars have turned their attention to China, developing a genuine affinity for Chinese culture. Their work promotes academic exchange and mutual understanding, invigorating global cultural dialogue and fostering enduring international friendship and cooperation.

Foreigners learn Chinese in Jimingshan community, Yiwu, east China's Zhejiang province. (Photo/Yang Meiqing)

The rise of China studies also signifies the renewed vitality of Chinese culture in the new era. In South Africa, a young student learned Chinese to understand dialogue in the Chinese animated blockbuster "Ne Zha." In Spain, a social media influencer promotes Chinese street food Jianbing Guozi in the Tianjin dialect, wrapping it with Spanish ham.

Sites such as Nanping, southeast China's Fujian province, hometown of Zhu Xi, a great Chinese philosopher and a Confucian scholar of the Southern Song Dynasty (1127-1279), have become popular destinations for international students. Furthermore, vocational programs in Chinese-language livestreaming and e-commerce are in high demand among youth in Southeast Asia.

Around the world, interest in learning Chinese continues to grow. Today, more than 80 countries have incorporated the Chinese language into their national education systems, and the total number of international Chinese language learners and users has exceeded 200 million.

This linguistic enthusiasm is part of a broader cultural wave. Chinese music, film and television, games, online literature, and short dramas are reaching wider global audiences, creating vivid and dynamic cultural exchanges.

Such growing global interest underscores China's openness and inclusiveness in the new era. As China embraces the world and shares its development opportunities, a two-way cultural dialogue continues to deepen.

Foreigners learn about traditional Chinese medicine at a traditional Chinese medicine hospital in Nanyang, central China's Henan province. (Photo/Gao Song)

The expansion of China's visa-free entry policy has also facilitated cultural exchange, allowing more international visitors to experience its heritage firsthand. Many international influencers share their experiences online, offering authentic portrayals that broaden global perceptions of China. In the first half of this year, the number of foreign arrivals in China grew by 30.2 percent year on year, including 13.64 million visa-free entries, an increase of 53.9 percent.

As China's development attracts greater global attention and the country continues to open up, a growing number of people worldwide recognize that understanding China and its culture is essential to unlocking opportunities for cooperation and achieving shared success.

In an increasingly interconnected world, civilizations can only address common challenges and pursue shared development through equality, exchange, and mutual learning. Conferences such as the World Chinese Language Conference, the World Conference on China Studies, and the World Conference of Sinologists are becoming key platforms for cross-cultural exchange, dialogue, and cooperation.

Looking ahead, China will continue to promote the principles of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, while expanding platforms for global engagement.

Understanding the present requires a deep appreciation of historical roots, and recognizing contemporary China necessitates an understanding of its cultural foundations. It is through mutual learning among civilizations that shared progress becomes possible.

It is hoped that more international scholars will engage in China studies, working alongside their Chinese counterparts to implement the Global Civilizations Initiative, foster mutual understanding, mutual respect and mutual trust among nations, and jointly contribute to the advancement of human civilization.

(Web editor: Zhong Wenxing, Wu Chengliang)
Endowment Honors the Life and Legacy of Beloved Educator and Philanthropist, Diana Cusumano

SANTA CLARITA, Calif., Nov. 18, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- In a powerful demonstration of commitment to education, community, and the future of the culinary arts, the Cusumano family has made a landmark $1 million donation to College of the Canyons. This transformative giftthe largest single contribution ever received by the College of the Canyons Foundationestablishes both the Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Endowed Program Fund and the Cusumano Family and Friends Endowed Scholarship Fund.

In recognition of this generosity, the college's Institute for Culinary Education (iCUE) building will be renamed the Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Building, also known as Cusumano iCUE.

The development of the endowed scholarship fund comes at a pivotal moment, as enrollment shifts reshape higher education nationwide. Budget cuts are straining colleges and sparking debate across the country about the value of trade education. To address students' needs, the Cusumano Family and Friends Endowed Scholarship Fund will provide enhanced opportunities and reduce barriers for students pursuing careers in the culinary arts. This includes vital financial support to part-time and full-time culinary arts students with a minimum 2.75 GPA who demonstrate financial hardship. Students can apply for the scholarship as early as spring 2027 through the Foundation's office. Scholarships can be used to fund tuition, students' chef's tools, and professional training experiences locally and abroad.

Additionally, the Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Program Fund will support staffing, faculty training, and ongoing equipment and kitchen upgrades to foster program innovation and industry partnerships  ensuring the iCUE program remains at the forefront of culinary education.

The endowment celebrates the life's work of Diana Cusumano, a beloved educator, artist, business owner, and philanthropist in the Santa Clarita community. Her passion for learning and the culinary arts inspired many. As a Foundation Board Director, Diana led the iCUE facility fundraising campaign to create opportunities for students to pursue an important trade in the culinary arts, which could lead to a long-term career. She was a lifelong learner with a love for education, baking, and entertaining. The Cusumano family honors Diana's legacy of service and leadership by continuing her vision of shaping the lives of students for years to come.

"Our family is proud to celebrate Diana's life by supporting the next generation of chefs, bakers, and culinary professionals as she once did," said Gary Cusumano, a long-time Santa Clarita Valley resident known for his philanthropic efforts. Gary retired from Newhall Land in 2006, having served as President and CEO and concluded his career as Chairman. Like Diana, he has a long history of community leadership, formerly serving on the boards of the California Chamber of Commerce, the University of California, the University of California Davis Alumni Association, and Henry Mayo Newhall Memorial Hospital.

"Diana believed that educationboth academic and hands-onwas the strongest path to success in life. I hope this gift will open doors for students who share Diana's passion for the culinary arts and are seeking an affordable, practical route to a rewarding career," Gary continued.

The $1-million endowment arrives at a crucial time as interest in skilled trade programs grows among Gen Zoften called the "Tool Belt Generation"who favor practical, in-demand careers over traditional degree paths.

As college costs rise, many students find that higher education and strong career options are beyond their reach. Recent data from the National Student Clearinghouse indicates that student enrollment in vocational-focused community colleges increased by 16% in 2024. Recent reports show Gen Z and young millennials without degrees are increasingly pursuing skilled trades that emphasize experiential learning, creativity, and masterysuch as careers in the culinary arts. According to Pew Research, "chef/cook" ranks as the fifth most preferred occupation among workers without traditional degrees.

Careers in the Kitchen Are Heating Up

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, chefs and head cooks held 197,300 jobs in 2024, with a projected 7% growth from 2024 to 2034. Additionally, chefs and head cooks in the college's northern Los Angeles County service area have a slightly higher median annual salary of $61,081 compared to L.A. County's median of $57,979, according to the Santa Clarita Community College District.

While the data is promising, the food industry still faces hurdles in filling its talent gaps. According to a recent study, in 2024, 45% of restaurants were understaffed and 70% had hard-to-fill positions. The Cusumanos' generous gift will support training and education for students entering the food services industry, which is expected to create 200,000 jobs and increase total industry employment to 15.9 million by the end of 2025. Current data from the National Restaurant Association predicts that the food services industry will reach $1.5 trillion in sales.

"The impact of this gift is profound," said Dr. Jasmine Ruys, acting superintendent-president, College of the Canyons. "Our students now have greater access to life-changing opportunities. This gift not only empowers our students to pursue their passions and build meaningful careers, but also helps meet the urgent workforce demands of California's thriving culinary arts industry. We are deeply grateful for the Cusumano family's vision and commitment to student success."

The Cusumano family's contribution to the iCUE program will be a key factor in building a pipeline for culinary talent, offering innovative training, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities for students from diverse backgrounds. The Culinary Arts program provides an affordable path to a rewarding career, with tuition at just $46 per unit. The program includes an Associate Degree in Culinary Artsand three certificates in: Baking and Pastry, Culinary Arts, and Beer and Wine Studies.

Typically, COC students can earn a degree or certificate in culinary arts in less than two years. The baking and pastry arts program takes two semesters to complete. Meanwhile, the beer and wine studies program takes three semesters. However, thanks to its innovative training, COC Culinary Arts students are in high demand. They are often recruited and hired before completing the program, making firsthand training and experience essential for success.

"This substantial gift will help remove barriers for students who want to study in our program," said Chef Cindy Schwanke, Department Chair, Culinary Arts and Wine Studies, noting that she sees many students who can't afford the uniform, shoes, and textbooks. "I am excited that the funds can be used to help students study abroad. I encourage students to expand their culinary horizons and be global," she continued.

The scholarship fund and the program fund can receive additional gifts from donors. The Cusumano family and the College of the Canyons Foundation welcome industry partners, alumni, and community members to expand the incredible opportunities created by this remarkable gift.

"We are deeply grateful to Gary Cusumano for his decision to honor Diana and our students by bestowing a legacy of access to practical education," said Monica Lee "ML" Copeland, MFA, CFRE, Chief Development Officer, College of the Canyons. "I am deeply moved by Gary's compassion and Diana's vision and can't wait to see the iCUE bearing the name Diana and Gary Cusumano Culinary Arts Building in the spring of 2026."

About College of the Canyons Foundation  The College of the Canyons (COC) Foundation is a 501(c)(3) non-profit auxiliary organization that bridges the gap between public funding and student need by investing in student success. With the support of a dedicated Foundation Board and committed volunteers, we fulfill the mission by fundraising, grant-making, and fiscal sponsorship activities.

About College of the Canyons  College of the Canyons has served the community since 1969. During that time, it has fostered a reputation for innovation, excellence, partnerships, and student success. Located in Santa Clarita, the third largest city in Los Angeles County, the college offers more than 300 degree and certificate options. COC is a leader in workforce education, serving over 40,000 students each year and offering innovative programs that prepare graduates for success in a changing economy.

Media Contacts

Eric Harnish, College of the Canyons

[email protected]

661-362-3429 - office

661-755-3054 - mobile

Miya Walker, WalkerPR

[email protected]

SOURCE College of the Canyons
State of Quintana Roo doing away with transit officers to put an end to police corruption against drivers

Riviera Maya, Q.R.  Governor Mara Lezama says the state is in the beginning phase of a historic mobility transformation. She says Quintana Roo will be the first in the country to do away with its Transit Officers as a way to eliminate corrupt traffic police.

A 2025 government survey found 75 percent of Mexicans believe transit officers are the most corrupt authority in the country.

The 2025 National INEGI Survey of Victimization and Public Safety Perception confirmed that the adult population of Mexico perceives 75.1% of traffic police as the most corrupt authority in the country, surpassing judges and state police officers.

The elimination of the transit police position across Quintana Roo, she explained, will be replaced by a no contact method with drivers.

On Tuesday, Governor Lezama announced that Quintana Roo will be the first state in the country to eliminate the figure of Transit Officers. She said their elimination will give way to Mobility Agents, professional, trained men and women who operate without direct contact to sanction and without the opportunity to negotiate.

We cannot continue to bear the stigma of having the most corrupt traffic police in the country where 81% of people feel distrust and are tired of having to negotiate in the streets, tired of extortion and abuses that hurt the dignity of everyone, the Governor stated.

The most recent Quintana Roo government survey, which is from 2019, shows Playa del Carmen (formally Solidaridad), Benito Juarez (Cancun) and Tulum as the three municipalities with the most perceived corrupt transit police.

According to Lezama, Quintana Roo will start the Safe Radar program, a technology that will regulate speed without human interaction. She says this will reduce corruption by removing the power to issue fines previously held by traffic officers, thus reducing risks and saving lives.

Governor Lezama emphasized that these are reasons why we seriously, and with vision, assume the responsibility of transforming this history, not with whims, not with improvisations, but with deep, technical and human planning to achieve a change that truly serves.

Quintana Roo Transit Police are being eliminated to end police-driver corruption.

She said the elimination of the states transit officers is part of a large mobility transformation that also includes new buses, security and schedules.

During the Tuesday press conference, Rafael Hernandez Kotasek, who heads that states Imoveqroo (Instituto de Movilidad del Estado de Quintana Roo), announced the Quintana Roo Welfare Mobility System (MOBI), which includes the modernization of public transportation with new units, security and zero corruption, by eliminating the Transit Authority.

Governor Mara Lezama, left, with Rafael Hernandez Kotasek of Imoveqroo November 18, 2025.

He explained that in its first stage (20252027), MOBI (Sistema de Movilidad del Bienestar) will begin with an integrated bus network in Chetumal, Cancun, Isla Mujeres and Playa del Carmen, serving over 1.5 million residents.

With the MOBI System, a social mobility policy, residents will have access to modern and dignified vehicles, fair fares with digital payment, organized routes and reliable schedules.

The new MOBI Mobility System is the result of recent citizen consultations carried out by the Quintana Roo Mobility Institute (IMOVEQROO), he said.

Today we are taking a historic step, making a profound change, Governor Lezama said. A change born from listening, from recognizing our reality and daring to transform it.

Governor Mara Lezama says the new MOBI system will put an end to police-driver corruption.

Governor Lezama says MOBI has two missions: to resolve the historical debt of public transportation that has complicated the lives of families for years, and to guarantee security, order and transparency, leaving behind a model of corruption that has hurt entire generations.

She added that in the coming days, she will send a series of initiatives to the State Congress that will provide legal support for this new mobility model, ensuring that the rules, transparency and accountability are maintained.

With the signing of the New Agreement for the Modernization and Safety of Public Transportation with concessionaires, unions and operators, the agreement includes fleet renewal, speed controls, mandatory training, dignified service and affordable fares.

Mara Lezama says MOBI is more than a mobility system. It is an act of social justice, the definitive end of a corrupt model and the beginning of modern, humane and transparent mobility.

The new mobility system will also include new buses, security and scheduled runs.

Today, Quintana Roo is changing the way people get around and with that, the way they live. The most profound changes require deep and responsible planning and we have achieved it.

MOBI has arrived and it has arrived to improve our quality of life, to bring justice, to bring well-being to all because its not just about getting around, its about moving forward together, she said.
In March of 2020, I published an essay warning both the public and our policymakers against overreacting to the COVID threat. We overreact, I argued, in times of epistemic uncertainty, when we do not know enough about a threat we face and are unclear about our best response. We become consumed by fear, and the greater the fear and the trickier the response, the more likely we overreact.

In some ways, COVID came at the worst time imaginable. Americans were deeply divided along partisan lines, and those differences and associated feelings intensified after the murder of George Floyd. We had a president who polarized the public and engaged in a hotly contested effort for reelection. The public had low trust in our governing institutions and our media outlets, and colleges and universities that overreacted after Floyds murder were often populated by experts who not only politicized their disciplines but were mostly uniform in their partisan and ideological leanings.

Among those progressive professors is Stephen Macedo of Princeton, who confesses in the book In Covids Wake: How Our Politics Failed Us that he spent the COVID years bleaching his groceries and, when in public, zealously maintaining a six-foot perimeter and changing and washing his clothes before reentering his house. His coauthor and Princeton colleague, Frances Lee, assumed she would get COVID and made minimal prophylactic efforts. Acknowledging that reactions to the virus tended to divide people into two camps, they suggest that each tribe needs to introspect, admit its biases and shortcomings, and strive to do better. The substance of the book, however, is far kinder to Lees tribe than it is to Macedos.

I dont know if the authors meant the word wake in the title ironically, but the connection seems obvious. For all the claims that people who favored highly restrictive policies were simply following the science, Macedo and Lee effectively demonstrate that ideology and self-interest rather than science drove COVID-era policies and that Americans will be paying a high price for progressive hubris for years to come. One must give credit to Macedo especially: He demonstrates genuine scholarly integrity in admitting his errors.

To return to my earlier claim: Because we tend to overreact in times of uncertainty, we try to develop plans in advance of catastrophes, especially ones we can anticipate. Pandemics are predictable disasters, and for that reason governments should have plans in place for dealing with one when it happens, especially if they want to avoid a repeat of the Spanish Flu nightmare.

Global flu outbreaks occurred every decade from the 70s on, and in the first decade of this century, governments and NGOs, including the World Health Organization (WHO), put together pandemic-response plans. Macedo and Lee review those plans carefully and identify a significant common thread in all of them: the conviction that Non-Pharmaceutical Interventions (NPIs)including mask mandates, social distancing, quarantines, shutdowns, and border closureswould have no discernible effect on improving health outcomes. These plans predicated themselves on the belief that they could not contain any respiratory virus. A review published by WHO in November of 2019, around the time of the COVID outbreak, argued that many NPIs were not recommended in any circumstances (emphasis in original). Even in April of 2020, WHO issued a statement recommending against mask wearing. Leading epidemiologists such as Tom Jefferson argued that there is no evidence that masks make any difference. Full stop.

Likewise, no science justified the ideas of border closings, school closings, social distancing, and quarantiningas realized in all the pre-pandemic plans. Most plans argued for protecting the most vulnerable and letting the virus work its way through healthier populations. Granted, there would be lives lost, but all pre-pandemic plans focused on the full range of costs and trade-offs involved in policy measures. Macedo and Lee look at the costs of highly restrictive policies on educational attainment, mental health, employment, business failures, substance abuse, economic inequality, childhood obesity, social service provision, and non-Covid health care delivery and conclude that the trade-offs were definitely not worth it, especially since there were limited excess mortalities. In a shocking admission, they write: For every government policy employed during the pandemic, the distribution of estimated effects clusters around zero, which suggests that government responses did little or nothing to change the COVID-19 burden.

So what changed from the pre-pandemic plans, and why did governments not shift policies when the failure of restrictive policies was already evident in the summer of 2020? Two things: First, officials around the world looked at Chinas response to the virus and mimicked its policies; and second, mathematical models that predicted death on a catastrophic scale caused panic in the public.

Macedo and Lee express no small amount of amazement at the impulse of Western democracies to follow Chinas lead. Long known as a highly authoritarian regime that often lied about data and information, China also had the largest dog in the fight given that it was the provenance of the virus. Macedo and Lee demonstrate how experts had initially rejected Chinas policies but then eventually adopted them. Why would they do this? The authors are coy in their answerindeed, throughout the book they are hesitant to comment on motivesbut suggest that some experts believed that China had demonstrated that suppression of the virus was possible through extreme exercise of power, and that this was a very appealing idea to policymakers and government leaders the world overperhaps especially to progressives. Then, too, political leaders worried about the strategic costs of placing blame on China for the virus and seem to have overcorrected in their response.

The use of mathematical modeling, because of its weak predictive power, has long been suspect among social scientists. Drs. Carter Mecher and Richard Hatchett of Bushs Homeland Security team had produced mathematical models in the early 2000s that they claimed demonstrated NPIs could reduce death rates by 50% or more. The CDC, WHO, most healthcare experts, and even The New York Times had rejected the Mecher and Hatchett plan as ethically questionable as well as scientifically suspect. It also rubbed completely against pre-pandemic consensus.

The more significant modeling problem occurred when Dr. Neil Ferguson of the Imperial College in London, a frequent collaborator of Mechers and Hatchetts, issued a bombshell report on March 16, 2020, that predicted 2.2 million deaths in the U.S. unless severe NPI measures were implemented. Macedo and Lee carefully examine the negligence of other scientists as well as journalists to investigate not only Fergusons claims but also his credibility. He had a poor track record during previous health scares and a long-standing tendency to overestimate threats and alarm the public and policymakers. Alarmist press coverage meant that a consensus developed far too fast around previously untested strategies at odds with warnings expressed in prior pandemic planning.

The COVID response abounded in war metaphors, and nothing expands government power like war. The first casualty of war is truth, with governments as well as opinion-makers actively suppressing dissent. One of the most compelling parts of the book is the authors tracing of the ways in which all dissent was suppressed by government actors, by the press, by scientific experts, and by other elites. Indeed, the authors excoriate the behavior of elites throughout the crisis, identifying the specific class interests of those formulating policies. Decision-makers tend to be specialists who share common assumptions and are drawn from the same segments of society. They are members of the laptop class, largely shielded from the economic consequences of lockdowns and other extreme measures. They tend not to change their minds because their reputations are at stake, concerning which they tend to be hypervigilant.

Perhaps nowhere did elite consensus congeal more thoroughly or more comprehensively than around the lab-leak theory. Early debates over the biological origin of COVID-19 suggested two possible sources: an open animal market or the Wuhan Institute of Virology (WIV) that was engaged in precisely the kind of research that would produce the coronavirus. Early on, epidemiologists mostly assumed that the lab-leak hypothesis was the correct one but changed their analysis as a result of political pressure from those who thought that assigning blame could upset the geopolitical order. In short, despite the scientists well-grounded concerns with the Institutes biosecurity and their conclusion that accidental release of a coronavirus was highly or friggin likely, they concluded that a shit show would result from a serious accusationor maybe even a plain statement of facts. Whatever this is, the authors ruefully continue, it is not science.

Americas two leading scientists of that time come in for a tongue-lashing. The authors wont come out directly and accuse Anthony Fauci, head of the National Institute for Allergies and Infectious Diseases, and Francis Collins, head of the National Institutes of Health, of bad faith and malpractice, but most readers will not resist. Macedo and Lee prove that both doctors were up to their elbows in gain-of-function research, roughly defined as experimentation designed to increase the transmissibility and virulence of pathogens, exactly the kind of research occurring at the Wuhan Institute. Fauci had consistently advocated for its continuance even after the Obama administration had banned such research as too dangerous. Non-malicious reasons for supporting gain-of-function research would include counteracting bioterrorism and helping to develop vaccines. There is no shortage of money involved in the process, and while money may not be a malicious motive, its not an inconsequential one.

Beyond the geopolitical reasons for suppressing the lab-leak theory Fauci and Collins had an interest in crushing all dissent because they supported not just gain-of-function research but such research at the WIV specifically. The record is clear, Macedo and Lee write, that the NIH and NIAID funded gain-of-function research that was performed in part at the Wuhan Institute of Virology, which had known biosecurity deficiencies. After the Covid pandemic began, scientists with complex and mixed motives engaged in an extensive and unacknowledged effort to deflect attention from the Chinese lab to the citys wet market and thereby shape public perceptions of Covids origins. The authors replicate email exchanges involving Collins and Fauci whereby the two most important public experts intentionally suppressed dissent. The elite experts excluded and then deceived the public. There ought to be a reckoning.

Or one might say there already was. Whatever else Trumpism is, I believe, its a rejection of the elites, not only their arrogance but also their ruthless exercise of power and indifference to those it affects most negatively. The authors conclusively demonstrate that Americas COVID policies were a rejection of science, a rejection of liberal principles, and a rejection of democratic processes. Such rejections necessarily result in diminished public trust and confidence. Indeed, the authors do not chide the public for not trusting experts, but experts for not trusting the public. The expert opinion was nuance just causes confusion, but they gave the public certain untruths rather than uncertain truths because, as in war, completely unity of purpose was required.

The book is notable also for what it does not discuss. It doesnt give us any raw data on COVID mortality, and even though the authors mention it in passing, no distinction is made between dying from COVID and dying with COVID and how eliding the difference actually inflated mortality numbers. In fact, Macedo and Lee dont go into any detail at all about the complete failures of data collection that took place in the middle of the pandemic, including the failure to get accurate numbers on infection rates and, maybe most importantly, the corruption of the Vaccine Adverse Effect Reporting System (VAERS).

Which brings me to the biggest omission: discussion of the vaccines themselves. The authors data demonstrate no difference between outcomes in red and blue states prior to the vaccines, but metrics in favor of the blue states after. But those metrics only measure hospitalization rates. Macedo and Lee also note that the Biden administration fed the public false information about the efficacy of the vaccines but avoid any conversation about side effects. Perhaps we dont know enough about those yet, but the inadequate reporting into the VAERS, and doctors being actively discouraged from reporting negative effects into the VAERS, may mean we will never have a clear picture of the long-term health effects of the vaccines.

Speaking of which: If truth is the first casualty of war, quickly on its heels comes the distortion of language. COVID made misinformation and disinformation parts of our common vocabulary, and Macedo and Lee treat both those terms as examples of the bad faith in service of elite control that marked so much of COVID politics. The government appointed itself the arbiter of what could be considered true and exercised unlimited authority in labeling dissenting views as misinformation, thus justifying the suppression of those views. The medical experts, governing authorities, media apologists, and so-called educated elites have yet to come to terms with the scope of the mistakes that were made during the pandemic and the extent to which their critics were, in many cases, more right than the medical associations were. Watching these public health officials defend their punishment of misinformation by advancing their own misinformation is a little like watching a dog chase its own tail.

This is an important book. It should get us to rethink the way the public, expert authorities, and governing officials manage crises: from identifying a crisis to coming clean about mistakes as well as motives. Mores the pity, then, that the book is so badly edited. The voice constantly flips between verb tenses and the arguments are often repetitive. Eliminating redundancies would have allowed space for dealing with the serious questions the authors avoided. I suspect that many readers who still believe that the hammer was not brought down swiftly or vigorously enough will cling to their delusions, because, as the authors argue, those delusions resulted from fear and not from reason. Those who expressed skepticism about NPI policies will have to resist the urge to say I told you so when they read the book.

In Covids Wake walks us through the inherent problems of dealing with rampant uncertainty during a time of crisis in a polarized age. People on both sides of the policies got things wrong, but few of them expressed their views with anything short of rock-solid certainty. Im not sure where all that certainty comes from, except to say that in an age such as ours, when we are beset by forces and powers we barely understand and cannot control, we will grab whatever certainty we can wherever we can get it. Once in our grasp, we seldom let it go.
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Publicprivate partnership will deliver affordable, scalable AI development to students, startups, and researchers across the Greater Sacramento region

ST. LOUIS and RANCHO CORDOVA, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- The Human Machine Collaboration Institute (HMCI) and Rapt.AI today announced the deployment of NVIDIA GB10 systems powered by the NVIDIA GB10 Grace Blackwell Superchip to anchor the AI and Robotics Ecosystem, a first-of-its-kind municipal AI innovation environment designed to make advanced computing accessible, affordable, and inclusive. The initiative is led through strategic collaboration between NVIDIA, HMCI, Rapt.AI, and the City of Rancho Cordova.

The initiative, announced at SuperCompute 2025, is backed by a $5 million investment from the City of Rancho Cordova and unveiled at SuperCompute 2025, the Ecosystem connects academia, startups, and civic innovators through shared AI infrastructure and remote-access training environments.

Rapt.AI provides workload-aware GPU orchestration and automation that simplifies multi-user collaboration and enables seamless scalingfrom NVIDIA GB10 local systems to NeoCloud (FarmGPU), a high-performance GPU cloud purpose-built for distributed training, inference, and large-scale data science.

"This initiative is about unlocking opportunity through accessibility," said Sadie St. Lawrence, CEO of HMCI. "By bringing NVIDIA-powered infrastructure to the Sacramento region and combining it with Rapt's orchestration and NeoCloud's scalability, we're giving students, startups, and civic teams the power to innovate locally and impact globally."

"NVIDIA GB10 hardware is extraordinary, but scaling it across a city ecosystem requires intelligent orchestration," said Charlie Leeming, CEO of Rapt.AI. "By pairing GB10 systems with Rapt's platform, Rancho Cordova is proving that municipal AI can deliver enterprise-grade performance, real accessibility, and a sustainable model other cities can follow."

"FarmGPU is proud to extend HMCI's local AI capacity with our NeoCloud platform, strengthened by our partnership with Solidigm's AI Central Lab in Rancho Cordova," said JM Hands, CEO of FarmGPU.

Launching in early 2026, the AI and Robotics Ecosystem will provide both on-site and remote access to NVIDIA infrastructure for model evaluation, fine-tuning, simulation, multimodal experimentation, and large-scale data sciencepowered by Rapt.AI's orchestration layer and FarmGPU's NeoCloud scalability.

About HMCI

The Human Machine Collaboration Institute (HMCI) is a research, education, and advising organization advancing how humans and machines work together. Through partnerships with industry, academia, and government, HMCI builds AI ecosystems that accelerate innovation, workforce development, and community transformation.

About Rapt.AI

Rapt.AI develops AI-powered GPU management, orchestration, and workload-aware optimization software that unifies on-premise and cloud GPU environments, enabling distributed AI workloads to run efficiently, collaboratively, and with minimal operational complexity.

About NeoCloud (FarmGPU)

NeoCloud (FarmGPU) provides elastic GPU cloud infrastructure optimized for AI training, inference, simulation, and data scienceenabling cost-effective scaling from local environments to cloud-scale computing.

Media Contacts:

Maria Chacon Kniestedt

Communications & Public Affairs Director

City of Rancho Cordova

916.851.8791(Office)

916.200.6181 (Cell)

[email protected] Mark Rottensteiner

Marketing and Communications

Rapt.AI

(813) 300-7423 (Cell)

[email protected]

SOURCE Rapt.Ai
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CCTV: Many analysts have pointed to the fact that Sanae Takaichi is the first Japanese prime minister to explicitly describe a hypothetical scenario concerning Taiwan as a survival-threatening situation. It implies that Japan could exercise the right of collective self-defense if such a situation occurs, which makes Japans armed intervention in the Taiwan Strait a possibility. That would be unacceptable to China given its red line. Do you agree with the view?

Mao Ning: The right of collective self-defense set forth in the UN Charter is created to safeguard the collective security of the international community and prevent the revival of fascist forces. Japan has been restricted from exercising this right since the end of World War II. The Potsdam Proclamation clearly states that Japan should not re-arm. Japan commits in its Constitution to forever renouncing war and the threat or use of force as means of settling international disputes and established the exclusively defense-oriented principle. Together they codified Japans obligations as a defeated country.

A brief look at history will show us that to use survival-threatening situation and self-defense as a pretext is a go-to tactic for Japanese militarism to launch aggression. In 1931, Japan called whether it could seize Manchuria as survival-threatening, and used that as a pretext to carry out the September 18th Incident and invaded and occupied Northeast China. Japan later claimed that to defend the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere was an existential battle for Japan, enlarging its war of aggression to the entire Asia. Whether to attack Pearl Harbor was also deemed as survival-threatening to Japan, which ignited the Pacific War.

The alarm has been sounded. The historical tragedy must not repeat itself. As we mark the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese Peoples War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, the international community must guard against and firmly thwart any attempt of reviving militarism, jointly uphold the post-WWII international order and safeguard world peace.

Sky News: Yesterday, MI5 issued an official warning to British politicians about two LinkedIn accounts that it said were posing as headhunters but were in fact operating on behalf of the Chinese Ministry of State Security. Given the sheer regularity of these type of accusations recently, is it not quite far-fetched and perhaps even more damaging to bilateral relations between China and the UK for China to continue to maintain that the UK is just making it all up?

Mao Ning: China has stated its position more than once. China never interferes in other countries internal affairs and has absolutely no interest in the so-called intelligence of the UK Parliament. Time to stop those phantom allegations and the false projection.

China-Arab TV: Yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi in his meeting with Ahmed Aboul Gheit, Secretary General of the League of Arab States, said the second China-Arab States Summit will be held next year. What steps is China taking for the preparation of the summit?

Mao Ning: In May 2024, President Xi Jinping attended the opening ceremony of the 10th Ministerial Conference of the China-Arab States Cooperation Forum and delivered a keynote speech. President Xi Jinping in the speech announced China will host the second China-Arab States Summit in China in 2026. Yesterday, Foreign Minister Wang Yi and Secretary General of the Arab League Ahmed Aboul Gheit had an in-depth exchange of views on jointly making preparations for the summit. The preparation work is in orderly progress.

CGTN: On November 18 local time, the 80th session of the UN General Assembly deliberated on the reform of the Security Council. The Chinese representative explicitly pointed out in his remarks that Japan is totally unqualified to seek a permanent seat on the Security Council. What is your comment?

Mao Ning: According to the UN Charter, the Security Council bears primary responsibility for the maintenance of international peace and security. Japan waged a war of aggression during the Second World War, inflicting profound sufferings on the people of Asia and the world. To this day, Japan still has not fully repented for its war crimes. Some in Japan continue to advocate a wrong perception of World War II history, and they still pay tribute to the Yasukuni Shrine, and distort, deny and even whitewash Japans history of aggression. The erroneous remarks of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi on Taiwan grossly interfere in Chinas internal affairs, trample on international law and basic norms in international relations, and challenge the post-WWII international order. A country like this is in no position to take up the responsibility for maintaining international peace and security, and is unfit for permanent membership of the Security Council.

AFP: Prosecutors in Taiwan charged seven people, including a person from Chinese mainland, on Tuesday with violating national security after they allegedly collected military secrets for Chinese mainland. What is the Foreign Ministrys comment on this?

Mao Ning: This is not related to foreign affairs.

NHK: Weve learned that China has notified Japan it will suspend the imports of Japanese aquatic products. Can you share the details and the reason for this?

Mao Ning: Japan made a commitment to fulfill the regulatory responsibility of guaranteeing the quality and safety of its aquatic products exported to China. This is the prerequisite for Chinas import of Japanese aquatic products. However, Japan has so far been unable to provide the technical materials under its commitment.

Let me reiterate that because of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis egregious moves and erroneous remarks concerning Taiwan and other major issues of principle, there has been strong outrage and condemnation from the Chinese people. Under current circumstances, there will be no market for Japanese aquatic products even if they enter China.

Beijing Daily: The 24th Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) was held in Moscow, and Premier Li Qiang attended the meeting. Could you share more information and the outcomes of the meeting?

Mao Ning: The Meeting of the Council of Heads of Government of Member States of the SCO held yesterday was a full success. Leaders of participating countries had an in-depth discussion and reached important common understandings on implementing the outcomes of the SCO Summit in Tianjin, deepening cooperation in various fields, and strengthening institution-building of the organization.

Premier Li Qiang said that as an important player in building and reforming the global governance system, the SCO is equipped and capable of jointly implementing the Global Governance Initiative. The SCO should focus on the key areas of development and security to build an open and inclusive world economy and promote universal security and lasting peace. The SCO should achieve sustainable development by fostering and developing new drivers and promoting green and low-carbon transition. China stands ready to work with all parties to further enhance the SCOs cohesion, capacity for action, and influence, and continuously make the SCO better and stronger.

Leaders of participating countries spoke highly of the contributions made at the SCO Summit to the high-quality development of the SCO. They agreed to continue following the guidance of the Shanghai Spirit, actively promote cooperation on security, trade, finance and connectivity and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, among other fields, and contribute to promoting peace and development in the region and beyond and reforming and building the global governance system.

Nippon TV: Regarding yesterdays meeting between Japan and China, Japan has requested China for explanation not informing Japan that there is a media shooting opportunity after the meeting. What is Chinas comment towards this?

Mao Ning: China did not arrange media organizations to photograph or shoot videos there. I actually noticed that most of the reporters at the scene were from Japanese media outlets.

RIA Novosti: Yesterday, Russian President Putin said that the visa-free policy toward Chinese nationals will take effect in the near future. What is the Foreign Ministrys comment? Will the number of Chinese tourists to Russia increase?

Mao Ning: China attaches great importance to facilitating cross-border travel between the Chinese and Russian people. China and Russia are each others largest neighbors. Mutual visa exemption will further strengthen people-to-people and cultural exchanges and serve the common interests of the two peoples.

Reuters: Yesterday, Japans Chief Cabinet Secretary Kihara when asked about whether Japan plans to retract Prime Minister Takaichis remarks about Taiwan responded by saying those remarks were in line with Japans long-standing views. Do you have any comment on this?

Mao Ning: Let me stress that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis erroneous remarks on Taiwan have fundamentally eroded the political foundation of China-Japan relations and triggered strong outrage and condemnation from the Chinese people. China seriously urges Japan to retract the erroneous remarks, stop making provocations on issues concerning China, take practical steps to admit and correct the wrongdoing, and uphold the political foundation of China-Japan relations. If Japan refuses to retract them or even continue to pursue the wrong course, China will have to take strong and resolute countermeasures and all consequences arising therefrom will be borne by Japan.

The Paper: Its reported that U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth unveiled Operation Southern Spear that aims to remove narco-terrorists from the Western Hemisphere. The U.S. State Department this week announced to designate Cartel de los Soles headed by Nicolas Maduro as a Foreign Terrorist Organization, effective November 24, 2025. The U.S. also said it would not rule out sending U.S. troops into Venezuela. Whats Chinas comment?

Mao Ning: China firmly supports the Proclamation of Latin America and the Caribbean as a Zone of Peace released by the Community of Latin American and Caribbean States in 2014. China opposes any moves that violate the purposes and principles of the UN Charter and other countries sovereignty and security, and the interference of external forces in Venezuelas internal affairs under any pretext. We hope the U.S. will engage in normal law enforcement and judicial cooperation through bilateral and multilateral legal frameworks and choose the course of action that is conducive to peace and stability in Latin America and the Caribbean region.

BBC: Just to follow up on the previous question, you said if Prime Minister Takaichi did not retract her comments, China would take further countermeasures. What further financial and diplomatic pressure is China threatening?

Mao Ning: I just elaborated on Chinas position. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichis erroneous remarks on Taiwan damaged the political foundation of China-Japan relations. China has every reason to take countermeasures. Japan needs to, first and foremost, retract the erroneous remarks and take practical steps to redress the wrongdoing. Otherwise, China will have to take further measures.
On the afternoon of November 17, 2025 local time, Premier of the State Council Li Qiang met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin in Moscow.

Li Qiang said that the 30th regular meeting between Chinese and Russian heads of government was held in Hangzhou not long ago. The meeting focused on implementing the important common understandings reached by President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin, took stock of the progress in China-Russia cooperation across various fields, and made plans on key cooperation in the next stage. China is ready to work with Russia to follow the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, further strengthen communication and coordination, continuously deepen mutually beneficial cooperation between the two sides, and create more benefits for the two peoples.

Li Qiang noted that China is ready to deepen cooperation with Russia in investment, energy, agriculture and other fields, and welcomes more high-quality agricultural and food products from Russia to the Chinese market. Li Qiang expressed the hope that Russia will provide greater convenience for Chinese enterprises investing and operating in the country. The two sides should continue to expand people-to-people exchanges, and strengthen cooperation in culture, education, film, and other sectors, injecting greater humanistic warmth into China-Russia relations. The Tianjin Summit of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) held in September this year achieved a series of fruitful results of milestone significance. China is willing to maintain close coordination and collaboration with Russia to encourage all parties of the SCO to uphold the Shanghai Spirit and materialize the development blueprint outlined by leaders at an early date. He called for efforts to further advance pragmatic cooperation to strengthen the development momentum of all member states, while continuously improving the institutional development of the SCO, enhancing its influence in international affairs, and standing in solidarity with the vast number of Global South countries to promote an equal and orderly multipolar world as well as a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization.

Mikhail Mishustin said that currently, the Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era is at an unprecedented high level. Russia is willing to further strengthen dialogue and exchanges at all levels with China, deepen cooperation in fields such as economy and trade, energy, agriculture, and people-to-people and cultural exchanges, foster new growth drivers for cooperation, and continue to enhance good-neighborliness and friendship. The Russian side is also willing to create a favorable business environment for Chinese enterprises investing in Russia. The Russian side expressed gratitude to China for its outstanding work during its rotating presidency of the SCO, particularly the successful hosting of the Tianjin Summit. Russia is ready to strengthen communication and coordination with China, enhance the institutional development of the SCO, and make greater contributions to promoting peace, development and prosperity in the region and the world.
On November 18, 2025, Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) Wang Huning met in Beijing with a delegation led by Lars Klingbeil, co-chairman of German Social Democratic Party (SPD) and German Vice Chancellor and Federal Minister of Finance.

Wang Huning noted that in May this year, President Xi Jinping had a phone call with Chancellor Friedrich Merz, reaching important common understandings on deepening China-Germany exchanges and cooperation. A sound and stable China-Germany relationship serves the interests of both countries and meets the expectations of all sectors in China and Europe. China is ready to work with Germany to advance the China-Germany all-round strategic partnership to a higher level and promote the development of China-Europe relations. The National Committee of the CPPCC is ready to make positive contributions toward this goal.

Lars Klingbeil said that China is an important partner of Germany, and that both countries bear significant responsibilities for the future of the world. The German side adheres to the one-China policy and is willing to work with the Chinese side to implement the important common understandings reached by the leaders of both countries and promote practical cooperation in various sectors. German SPD is willing to strengthen strategic dialogue with the CPC and enhance mutual understanding.

Wang Dongfeng and other officials attended the meeting.
On the afternoon of November 18, 2025 local time, Premier of the State Council Li Qiang met with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin in Moscow.

Li Qiang first conveyed President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and best wishes to President Vladimir Putin. Li Qiang noted that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has been growing at a high level. Since the beginning of this year, President Xi Jinping and President Vladimir Putin have met twice, charting the course for the further development of China-Russia relations. In the face of a changing and turbulent international landscape, China is ready to work with Russia to uphold the original aspiration of lasting friendship, strengthen the synergy of development strategies, deepen cooperation in various fields, and achieve more practical results, so as to better serve the development and rejuvenation of the two countries.

Li Qiang stated that China's determination and position on developing mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia have been consistent, and China is ready to further enhance the resilience of cooperation with Russia, consolidate and maintain the steady and sound development momentum of bilateral cooperation. The two sides should jointly host new China-Russia "theme years" at the national level, make good use of people-benefiting policies for "reaching out to each other", including visa-free access, promote better mutual understanding and closer ties between the peoples of the two countries, and consolidate the foundation of people-to-people friendship in bilateral relations. China is ready to continue to work closely with Russia to implement the outcomes of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Tianjin Summit, carry forward the Shanghai Spirit, deepen unity and cooperation, create a model for practicing the Global Governance Initiative, promote high-quality development of the SCO, and make greater contributions to peace and development in the region and the world at large.

Vladimir Putin asked Li Qiang to convey his cordial regards and best wishes to President Xi Jinping, and congratulated the successful convening of the fourth plenary session of the 20th Central Committee of the Communist Party of China. Vladimir Putin expressed his firm belief that under President Xi Jinping's strong leadership, China will successfully achieve the development goals set out in the 15th Five-Year Plan and make more remarkable economic and social development achievements. The Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era is now at its historical height. Russia is willing to maintain close high-level exchanges with China, expand cooperation in economy and trade, energy, agriculture, infrastructure development and other fields, and increase people-to-people exchanges. Russia congratulates China on the successful hosting of the SCO Tianjin Summit, and is ready to further strengthen communication and coordination with China within multilateral frameworks such as the SCO and BRICS, safeguard regional and global peace and stability, and advance common development.
New additions reflect the firm's next era of growth and its continued commitment to client advocacy

NORTHRIDGE, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Kantor & Kantor, LLP, one of the nation's leading plaintiff-side insurance litigation firms, announced the hiring of three new attorneys across its Appeals and Bad Faith teams: Victoria Chen and Nicolet Lyon as Associate Attorneys on the Appeals Team, and Mark Lounsbury as an Associate on the Bad Faith Team. These additions further solidify the firm's deep bench of advocates as it continues to expand to meet the evolving needs of clients nationwide.

Kantor & Kantor hires three new attorneys across its Appeals and Bad Faith teams. Post this Kantor & Kantor announces the addition of three new attorneys - Victoria Chen and Nicolet Lyon to the Appeals Team, and Mark Lounsbury to the Bad Faith Team - as the firm continues its next era of growth.

"Our practice continues to grow in both depth and expertise, and I am extremely proud to keep expanding our team of advocates," said Andrew Kantor, Senior Partner at Kantor & Kantor. "Victoria, Nicolet, and Mark each bring distinct experience and a shared commitment to excellence that reflects the next era of Kantor & Kantor's growth."

Victoria Chen Joins Appeals Team

Victoria Chen joins the Appeals Team after graduating from The George Washington University Law School in May and recently became admitted to the California Bar. During law school, she focused on government lawyering at the federal, state, and local levels, including serving with the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation, where she worked on matters involving the misadministration of ERISA pension plans. It was there that Chen developed her passion for ERISA and commitment to helping individuals secure the benefits they are owed.

"We're thrilled to welcome Victoria to our appeals team. Her dedication to helping people obtain the benefits they deserve aligns perfectly with Kantor & Kantor's mission," said Cari Schwartz, Senior Partner and head of the Appeals Team.

Nicolet Lyon Strengthens ERISA Disability Appeals Capabilities

Nicolet Lyon joins the Appeals Team with nearly a decade of experience in ERISA disability appeals, litigation, and benefits-related advocacy. She represents participants and beneficiaries in disputes involving retirement, health, and disability benefits, with a practice centered on developing robust administrative records, interpreting complex medical and plan documents, and crafting strategic appeals that position clients for success.

Lyon earned her J.D. from the University of St. Thomas School of Law and her B.A. in Anthropology from the University of Minnesota. She has served as an Alumni Advisory Board Director for her law school and as a Volunteer Attorney with Cancer Legal Care, representing individuals facing cancer-related disability and insurance challenges.

"With nearly a decade of experience in ERISA disability appeals and litigation, Nicolet brings a wealth of knowledge and compassion to our work - helping us strengthen our advocacy today and continue growing into the future," said Cari Schwartz, Senior Partner.

Mark Lounsbury Enhances Bad Faith Litigation Team

Mark Lounsbury joins Kantor & Kantor's Bad Faith Team with a strong litigation background, having worked on real estate, financial services, creditors' rights, and state administrative matters involving regulation and compliance. He draws on this broad experience when addressing insurer compliance issues and complex coverage disputes.

Lounsbury is admitted to practice in Nevada (2019), California (2025), the U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada (2022), the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Nevada (2024), the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit (2022), and all four U.S. District Courts in California (2025).

"I joined Kantor & Kantor to help level the playing field for people dealing with insurers who refuse to keep their promises. After years of seeing how large institutions litigate and defend their interests, I wanted to put that insight to work and be part of a team built around accountability and helping policyholders get results," Lounsbury said.

"Our practice is built on holding powerful institutions accountable, and that's precisely where Mark's experience shines," said Tim Rozelle, Senior Partner and Co-Head of the Bad Faith Team. "His background in handling complex real estate, financial services, and creditors' rights matters gives him unique insight into how large companies operate and defend their interests. That insight now fuels his advocacy for policyholders - ensuring the law works for people, not just for companies. His perspective and skill make him a natural addition to our Bad Faith team."

"We are incredibly excited to welcome Mark Lounsbury to our bad faith team," added Jaclyn Conover, Senior Partner and Co-Head of the Bad Faith Team. "In just a few weeks, he has already made meaningful contributions to several of our long-term care and homeowners' insurance cases. We look forward to our continued success with Mark as an advocate for our clients."

About Kantor & Kantor, LLP

Kantor & Kantor, LLP is one of the most experienced and highly respected plaintiff-side insurance litigation firms in the country, representing individuals in claims involving disability, life, health, long-term care, and other insurance benefits. With decades of experience handling ERISA and bad faith matters, the firm is committed to holding insurers accountable and ensuring clients receive the benefits they deserve. For more information, visit www.kantorlaw.net.

Media Contact

Allison D. Bronson

Director of Marketing & Strategic Initiatives

Kantor & Kantor, LLP

Email: [email protected]

Phone: (747) 210-0919

SOURCE Kantor & Kantor, LLP
On November 18, 2025, the Second China Railway Express Cooperation Forum opened in Xi'an, Shaanxi Province. Member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and Vice Premier of the State Council Ding Xuexiang attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks.

Ding Xuexiang said that China attaches great importance to the development of the China Railway Express. President Xi Jinping has stressed the need to make the China Railway Express deliver better, more cost-effective and safer service. As a flagship project of high-quality Belt and Road cooperation, the China Railway Express has kept pace with the times, achieved leapfrog development, and has become an international logistics brand with strong outreach, driving force and influence, as well as a tireless "steel camel caravan" galloping along the Silk Road Economic Belt.

Ding Xuexiang noted that the fourth plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee has mapped out a blueprint for China's development over the next five years, and also made important arrangements for the development of the China Railway Express. China is ready to work with all parties to uphold the spirit of the Silk Road, engage in active communication and cooperation, and take the development of the China Railway Express to new heights, so as to better facilitate economic and trade exchanges and mutual learning between Asia and Europe. He put forward four proposals: First, it is necessary to enhance openness and connectivity by deepening the coordination and harmonization of infrastructure and rules and standards, coordinating railway, highway, maritime and other modes of transport, and consolidating and enhancing the advantages of diversified transport channels. Second, it is necessary to strengthen cooperation and innovation by actively promoting the application of high and new technologies, accelerating digital and intelligent development of the China Railway Express, and fostering new growth drivers for sustainable development. Third, it is necessary to enhance risk control by further synergizing transport development strategies, establishing and improving mechanisms for law enforcement communication and collaboration, advancing information connectivity and sharing, and cementing the foundation for safe development. Fourth, it is necessary to advance integrated development by supporting deeper and broader cooperation among enterprises along the route, maintaining the stability of international industrial and supply chains, ensuring smooth logistics, boosting trade growth, and fostering industrial upgrading to achieve a virtuous cycle, thereby promoting economic prosperity in the regions along the route.

Vice President of the National Assembly of Bulgaria Tsoncho Tomov Ganev attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks.

After the ceremony, Ding Xuexiang held a meeting with Tsoncho Tomov Ganev. The two sides exchanged views on China-Bulgaria relations and practical cooperation.

During the forum, Ding Xuexiang toured the exhibition titled Review of Operation of China Railway Express.

The theme of this year's China Railway Express Cooperation Forum is "Connecting Asia and Europe for a Shared Future". Approximately 450 participants, including experts, scholars, entrepreneurs, and government officials from home and abroad as well as representatives of international organizations, attended the opening ceremony.
Pay Dirt is Slates money advice column. Have a question? Send it to Kristin and Ilyce here. (Its anonymous!)

Dear Pay Dirt,

My childs preschool just sent us a babysitting agreement that they told us we are required to sign. The agreement outlines the policies for what happens if any of the paid staff at my childs preschool perform babysitting tasks for us outside of school hours, on the staff members own time. The policy includes things that make some sense (for example, absolutely no discussion of administrative issues or decisions at the school, a.k.a, dont use the staff member to pry for insider info). But then it gets weird.

The agreement also says that if there is an issue with the staff member, the family (thats me) has to pay a $200 an hour (minimum one hour) consultation fee to bring it up with the school. Also, if the staff member decides to quit working for the preschool and babysit full-time for a family instead, the family is required to pay the preschool $5,000.

This cannot be enforceable, can it? I know about non-competing agreements, both those are between employer and employee. How can I possibly be on the hook for $5,000 if a preschool teacher quits their jobs and wants to nanny my kid? And a $200 consultation fee for bringing up concerning behavior between a staff member and my child, if the behavior occurs outside of business hours? I am in Oregon, if that makes a difference. So far I have refused to sign this agreement.

Not Made of Money

Dear Not Made of Money,

Childcare costs are already sky high, so its pretty frustrating that this school has extra rules to protect themselves financially when parents are basically paying a second mortgage just to cover care. For an extra $5,000, youd expect your kids to get a PhD in finger painting.

Im not a lawyer, and Oregon may do things differently, but Id be skeptical that these terms would actually hold up. Its more likely that the school is trying to discourage families from hiring staff directly. That itself could be a red flag, because you dont want a school that nickel-and-dimes you. On the other hand, it also suggests their staff are good enough that parents want to poach them. Still, charging a $5,000 headhunting fee is pretty unusualand expensive.

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The bottom line is, youre right to be skeptical about signing this. If they push, ask them to explain the legal basischances are, they wont have one. If you want to be extra careful, you could check with a local attorney. Overall, youre not being unreasonable here. Asking them for clarification and a straight answer is totally fair.

Kristin

More Money Advice From Slate

My wife is bad with money. If we have money in our bank account, she will spend it. We have a shared account for bills and separate personal accounts, but when she has spent the money in her personal account she will just switch over to the shared account. I end up using my personal account for bills frequently. Weve talked about this endlessly, weve looked at how much money were spending, weve done budgets, but she just doesnt stick to it, and my personality does not lend itself to enforcement. I make more money, so Ive never wanted to feel like Im holding that over her.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here.

Dear Care and Feeding,

My sons dad, Theo, and I have a strained parenting relationship. I try to keep things basic, and if our son is safe, fed, and going to school, I stay out of Theos custody time. But Im worried his house is dangerous, and I dont know how to find out more, since he wont let me in.

Our son is 6, so hes not the most reliable narrator. But hes been raising some red flags. After a recent weekend, he said, Daddy fell through the floor! I asked Theo about it, and he said, Kids exaggerate. I was working on the flooring, and he was worried I would fall in. But I dont know if I believe him, and the house has always been a flash point between us.

Shortly before we split, Theo insisted we buy a fixer-upper together. Our inspector lied about how much fixing was needed. That house was the last straw in our marriage. As of five years ago, it needed a new roof, a new boiler, repairs to foundation cracks, drainage for a wet basement/mold issues, rewiring in the upstairs, replacement of the subflooring, and possibly joists in a load-bearing wall from long-term plumbing leaks. Property taxes went up unexpectedly, and it was a nightmare. Theo had his heart set on keeping it in the divorce, so I got a lot of our liquid assets, and he got the house.

I know hes been working on DIYing it, and when our son was a toddler, Theo voluntarily took his custody time at his moms house. He did get a certificate of occupancy and has been having his weekends at his home for years. But if he says its just construction progress while our kid keeps saying theres a hole in the kitchen floor or that theres rain indoors, what do I do?

Safety Hazard at Home

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Dear Safety Hazard,

Do you believe in your heart that Theo would knowingly put your son in danger, or are you just trying to start trouble? If you are truly, genuinely worried about the safety of your child, tell your ex-husband. If its easier, find an intermediary like his mom or a mutual friend. Explain to them that you have limited information and that after hearing about rain indoors and holes in floors, youre worried for your sons safety. Try to explain it without judgment so that they can relay to him merely that youre worried. Be straight that this is about your son and not about getting your ex in trouble (it is, right?!). Ideally, hell talk to you and you can figure something out to make you feel comfortable. If he really wont listen, and you actually think there is real danger for your son, you can go to the authorities.

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That said, you probably dont have too much to worry about. Having had to do it, I can tell you that getting a certificate of occupancy isnt easy. I can also tell you that, as the owner of a money pit, Ive done a lot of projects with kids in the house. In my experience, human children after age 3 or 4 are pretty decent at self-preservation. Playgrounds have high places to fall from. Woods are full of rocks to trip over and tree limbs to smack your head on. Home-project sites have holes in the floor and drills and crowbars lying around. Your son is old enough to recognize danger when he sees it. It sounds as if your ex is doing his projects and your son is maybe just excited to tell you about it.

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Get parenting advicesubmit a question! Please keep questions short (<150 words), and dont submit the same question to multiple columns. We are unable to edit or remove questions after publication. Use pseudonyms to maintain anonymity. Your submission may be used in other Slate advice columns and may be edited for publication. Thanks! Your question has been submitted. Dear Care and Feeding, * Your letter signoff Your pronouns Your email (optional and confidentialplease include if you're open to Care and Feeding following up) Submit

Dear Care and Feeding,

My husband, Dan, and I have two girls, Bella, 6, and Brianna, 9. This is our year to host Thanksgiving, and we typically have Dans sister Andrea, her husband Allen, and their kids with us starting at the beginning of Thanksgiving week. The trouble is that Andreas 8-year-old daughter Gabby has, within the last couple of years, come to take a perverse delight in tormenting Bella. Shes done everything from breaking her toys to telling her a monster was coming to eat her if she turned out the lights in her room (this was when Bella was just 4). Bella has gotten to the point where she says she doesnt want Gabby coming over anymore. Brianna says if Gabby is mean to her sister this time, shes going to punch her in the face.

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My husband is loath to stand up to his sister, who thinks this is just normal kid stuff. And Allen could care less about how their daughter behaves so long as he isnt inconvenienced. I wanted to have them stay at a hotel, but everything is now booked. Can you give any advice on how to make sure Gabby behaves since her parents refuse to step in?

Cousin Conflict

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Dear Cousin Conflict,

In an ideal world, you would put Andrea, Allen, and Gabby in the basement and then let them out for meals. Alas, we are forced to stumble around this cursed timeline instead.

It sounds like a bunch of whats about to come down is inevitable. Your in-laws are coming. Your husband isnt going to stand up to his sister. Gabby is going to be a punk. Your sister-in-law Andrea isnt going to suddenly realize that her own daughter is a tyrant. Allen is going to continue to be useless.

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What is in your control is how you talk to your girlstheyre the ones that are your responsibility and that you want to raise to be good people. Talk to Bella and Brianna ahead of the visit to prepare them. Tell them they are to come to you if theyre having an issue or if they dont want to be alone with Gabby. Tell them that no matter what Gabby does, there shall be zero face punches. In fact, no gut punches, arm punches, foot punches or even pinches you get the idea. Gabbys dickhead behavior is your opportunity to teach Bella and Brianna about not sinking to someone elses level. The world is full (and I mean chock full) of dickheads, and theyre going to have to deal with them on the regular. By not being dickheads themselves, theyll probably end up surrounded by fewer dickheads. (This is all part of my dickhead theory of communities.)

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Make sure that the kids play near enough to you that you can keep an eye on Bella. If you see Gabby doing her thing, youre well within your rights to step in, correct the behavior, and get Bella out of there. Its your house and your rules for behavior within it.

Greg

More Parenting Advice From Slate

My daughter has always been an independent soul, from the time she was a tiny baby. In grade school she loved to sneak out and sleep in her treehouse, and shes done every Outward Boundstyle activity she can get her hands on. Now shes in her last year of high school and has just presented me with an extremely detailed plan she has concocted to spend the summer planting trees in the Canadian wilderness, which is apparently a thing you can do? For money? Im worried that this is a terrible idea and shes more likely to fall out of a tree than arrive at university intact. Should I shut this plan down? She has secured full financial aid for four years, so its not like I can threaten to withhold her tuition if she doesnt listen to sense.
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In theory, Thanksgiving is a holiday built around family togetherness. But that wholesome branding belies yet another point of bitter division in American life: the split between those who want only the classics on their plates, unedited and unadorned, and thoseoften the cookswho wouldnt mind changing things up. Its on behalf of the latter group that recipe developers toil each year, doing their best to reinvent, or at least refresh, old standards like sweet potato casserole, cornbread stuffing, and, of course, the bird. Thankfully for these underappreciated artisans, the dessert buffet can offer a little more leeway for creativity and innovation  just as long as you dont mess with the pies.

Which is why, when I learned that New York Times Cooking recipe creator and food stylist Sue Li was about to come out, whisks blazing, with a radical take on the vaunted apple pie, I had to 1) make sure she was OK and 2) find out more. Lis Apple and Cream Piewhich is part of a collection of six new pie recipes that she dropped this weektakes a few liberties with the iconic dessert, but the biggest provocation is her approach to its most troublesome element: the wretched lattice. On the eve of her brave foray into the Thanksgiving foodie fray, I spoke with Li about her elegant no-weave solution, her feelings about the holidays traditional palate of flavors, and what pies of the future should be wearing on their big day. This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Bryan Lowder: The thing that I imagine is tough about Thanksgiving recipe development is that every year, youre having to revisit these dishes or flavors and say something new about them in one way or another. What theme did you have in mind for your collection of pies this go around?

Sue Li: Ive worked in food media for a long time behind the scenes, and youre right: When it comes to creating Thanksgiving flavors, theres a lot of cinnamon, a lot of nutmeg, pumpkin, cranberries, all those things. I personally have just gotten tired of those flavors because I have to think about them constantly. Its something that I have to cook in the summertime [when holiday recipes are tested] and its hot, and I think I just wanted something that is more me. Thanksgiving isnt something that I grew up celebrating, but its something that I learned about through my work, and so I had to infuse the way that I approach eating and the flavors that I like, which are a little bit lighter, a little brighter, and a little less sweet.

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Apple is one of the most revered pies of the Thanksgiving canon and seems kind of tricky to mess with. What drove you to want to take that one on in particular?

It was scary! There are a few things that I felt were intimidating about pies with pie dough, and I wanted to dispel them. That is why I was like, Let me tackle the apple pie, which is the most American thing. Obviously, if you looked at me, you wouldnt think that Im somebody who would make a very American apple pie, but Ive eaten a lot of different types of pies. All the recipes that I think people have made in their homes, from magazines, whatever articles theyve read, I have had to make them through my line of work. Ive just touched so many pies, and I realized along the way that there are easier ways to tackle the dough. There dont need to be so many rules. Do you feel like youve had that experience? Its always like: Dont use too much water. Move fast. That butter has to be super cold.

There can be a lot of stress about it, for sure.

I just wanted to make a double-crust apple pie that has no crimping, and the dough should be really easy. I think I was bold in trying to tackle it. Im really proud of it.

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Right, lets get into the specific elements of this recipe. Its called Apple and Cream Pie, not just apple pie. So thats signaling to us that the heavy cream is important. The pie filling definitely has sort of a softer, more blended vibe overall. Were sauteing the apples in butter first, instead of just tossing them with the sugar and spice, which most recipes would have you do. Were using a sweeter apple, the Honeycrisp, and then youve got  cup of cream. What were you wanting to achieve there?

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I dont like my desserts to be too sweet, so I feel like when youre using a Granny Smith, which is a very traditional apple-pie apple, its so tart that you need to add extra sugar. When youre adding sugar, youre also adding moisture. Sometimes it takes a little longer to cook. Parcooking the apples takes some of the moisture away, and there can be a little less sugar because the apples are already pretty sweet. And with the cream, you dont necessarily taste it when youre eating. Its just sort of silkier than normal, and it has just a little bit of cinnamon. Its more about the apples, and the cinnamon just takes you down that classic route for a little bit.

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OK, so the crust: This is the big news. The dough is a pretty standard all-butter pie dough. But were here to talk about the lattice. I bake a lot, but with lattices, Ive attempted it once or twice, and its so frustrating and fiddly that Ive never really done it again. So what youve done here is create a version of that thats shingled rather than woven, but it still gives you that three-dimensional, dramatic feel that a lattice does, without all of the trouble. How did you get that idea? Did you have any visual inspiration or reference points?

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I have a really good friend who is a pie baker based in Los Angeles. Her name is Nicole Rucker. She owns this pie shop called Fat and Flour. And at one point, she was telling me about how she was making her double-crust pies, where all she did was laywhich is apparently a classic French techniquea piece of crust on top and that was it. Maybe they make a hole in the center, but they didnt even crimp the sides. She showed me pictures, and they were so beautiful and cool.

So what I wanted here was to make it so we had a more visually stunning pie. And I wanted to make it simple because I myself find it so stressful. If Im preparing a dinner party or whatever, the kitchen is hot. If Im latticing dough, things are just falling apart and Im having a meltdown. If you do it like this, you just layer [the squares of dough] on, really. People can cut it into any shape they want. You can cut it into strips too, if you want. I dont care. Just lay it on.

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When you say any shape they want, could we get out our cookie cutters here and do fall leaves or something?

You can! Or you can get out a ring cutter and just cut circles, or you can cut triangles. You can cut different types of trapezoids

Irregular polygons!

Sure, polygons, and just put it on top and throw in the oven and know that whatever comes out will be really fun to look at. And also, you get so much crust.

What do you mean by that?

When theres latticing, theres going to be bites when you dont get crust. But with this, youre getting a crust on the top and the bottom, and from the overlaps theres going to be extra crust. For me, when it comes to a pie, I love a nice flaky crust. And something else that I ask people to do in the recipe is to preheat a baking sheet in the oven so the bottom is getting cooked too. I think thats something that people dont realize: If youre preheating your oven, you throw a baking sheet in there, and it actually helps you cook the bottom crust.

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All right, so youve solved the lattice. But because were not crimping, I can imagine some people being concerned about what the edge is going to look like on this.

If youre not crimping, youre not really sealing the edges. So the steam will be able to come out. And that helps it too, because most of the time when youre doing a double-crusted pie, you do need to have vent.

And then the shingles kind of drape down, right? So theyre going to create a good edge.

They kind of make a nice skirt.

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That sounds great. Do you think that this shingling technique would work elsewhere? Im actually making this Butter Chicken Pot Pie tonight thats been going around Instagram, and I was thinking of doing this on it.

Oh my God, you should! Any pie, savory, sweet. Any type of pie. Just shingle it on.

Just shingle it on! OK, turning back to the full pie collection, is there one that you really hope people would try, aside from the Apple Cream?

Oh, yeah. I do have a favorite: The Chocolate-Espresso Pie. Its so good. The crust is made with chocolate Teddy Grahams.



Ohhhhh 

And you make a rich chocolatey pudding. And then you make an espresso pudding. And the espresso pudding has white chocolate in it to give it extra chocolate. And then you top it with unsweetened whipped cream because it helps to balance out all the sweetness from the puddings. And the way I make it, its layered. So when you slice into it, its really stunning. Its delicious. It tastes like an ice cream cone. I keep saying that because it really tastes like an ice cream cone.

So do that with the apple pie. And if you want something lighter, then maybe do the Cranberry Mousse Pie, which looks like a marbled pink cloud. Actually, it also sort of looks like a dress.

See these pies and all of Sue Lis recipes for New York Times Cooking here.
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On a quiet Wednesday morning in Koblenz, Germany, a courtroom opened its doors to a proceeding unlike any that has come before it: the worlds first war crimes trial centered on the deliberate starvation of civilians.

For decades, the principle has existed only on paper. Since 1977, the Geneva Conventions have classified the deprivation of food as a prosecutable war crimeyet no court has ever tested that rule. Now, for the first time, judges, prosecutors, and witnesses will attempt to define what it means to starve a population on purpose.

The witnesses, as well as the victims, are Palestinians.

This trial, however, is not happening in the Hague. It is happening in the Higher Regional Court of Koblenz, Germanyone that has become a global hub for accountability in the Syrian conflict.

The International Criminal Court revived worldwide attention on the issue in 2024, when prosecutors issued arrest warrants for Israels prime minister and former defense minister, citing reasonable grounds to believe they bore responsibility for using starvation as a method of warfare in Gaza. That case has not yet reached trial.

In Koblenz, prosecutors have charged five men linked to the Assad regimefour members of a pro-government militia and one Syrian intelligence officer. Four face counts of torture and murder. One faces an additional charge, the unprecedented allegation of having ordered starvation as a weapon.

A conviction would do more than punish individuals. It would define the crime itself. To understand the stakes, the court will revisit one of the most harrowing chapters of the Syrian civil war: the siege of Yarmouk.

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Once a thriving Palestinian district just five miles from central Damascus, Yarmouk became, by 2013, the most heavily besieged area in the country. What began as a cordon tightened into a noose. Medicine was blocked. Food convoys were turned back. Electricity, water, and basic medical supplies vanished. Civilians survived on grass, leaves, and animal feed.

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Related From Slate The Leader Behind the Biggest Plot Twist in History Steps on the World Stage Read More

Aid workers still recount those days with visceral clarity.

I will tell you the story of one cow, says Kenon al-Qudsi, recalling a 10-day effort to smuggle just 55 kilograms of meat into the district through makeshift tunnelstunnels soon sealed off by the regime. Doctors, including pediatrician and public-health advocate Annie Sparrow, remember hospitals without blood bags, antibiotics, or power. Without blood bags, you cant donate or receive blood, she explains. Treatable injuries became death sentences.

Aerial bombardments continued even as civilians starved.

The world briefly saw what Yarmouk had become in 2014, when a single humanitarian convoy was permitted into the ruins. As it arrived, thousands of skeletal residents emerged in silencea mass of hollowed faces amid smashed concrete. The United Nations Relief and Works Agency launched a global campaign, projecting the image onto screens in New Yorks Times Square and Tokyos Shibuya Crossing. It was a plea for helpbut the siege dragged on for four more years.

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Yarmouk finally fell in 2018 after a monthlong assault against armed rebels, including Islamist fighters of ISIS, that eventually displaced every remaining resident.

We named it, at the time, a concentration camp, says Qudsi.

The strategy used against Yarmouk was not unique. Similar sieges unfolded across Syriain Duma, Zabadani, and beyond. The Syrian regime weaponized hunger to crush rebellion, says Anwar al-Bunni, the Berlin-based Syrian human rights lawyer who helped collect testimony for the German case. Nor is the tactic confined to Syria. From Gaza to Sudan, Yemen to Ethiopia, and across parts of Ukraine, starvation has returned as a deliberate tool of war. Modern battlefields are increasingly urban; sieges increasingly prolonged; hunger increasingly systematic.

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In the 19th century, military doctrine openly sanctioned starvation. The U.S. Armys Lieber Code declared it lawful to starve the hostile belligerent. Major powers relied on blockades and deprivation in both world wars. But after 1977, international law drew a clear line: Civilians cannot be starvedever.

The rule existed. What it lacked was enforcement.

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The Koblenz prosecutors face a steep climb. To secure a conviction, they must prove intentnot only that starvation occurred, but that it was meant to happen to civilians, not just fighters.

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That line, scholars warn, is inherently fraught. Alex de Waal, author of Mass Starvation: The History and Future of Famine, argues that intent is often indirect: There can be an indirect intent, where its evident that starvation will occur in the normal course of eventsand those responsible know it, yet choose not to prevent it.

Germanys verdict will resonate far beyond Koblenz. It will set legal guidance for prosecutors in the Hague. It will help define what starvation as a method of warfare means in practice. And it will test whether one of humanitys oldest tacticssimple, devastating, and brutally effectivecan finally be brought within the reach of modern justice.

In Germany five men will stand trial. Millions of victims, past and future, are watching. Whether the law can catch up to starvation as a weapon is the question this courtroom will now attempt to answer.
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Heidi Reichinnek, a leader of Germanys far-left Die Linke party, is 37, has tattoos, swears, and posts prolifically on TikTok. She wears friendship bracelets her supporters make for her, in reference to her love of Taylor Swift, and says she has some 300 or 400 by now. (Tax the rich means Taylor Swift too, so dont worry, she said.) She speaks in rapid-fire sentences, and she became famous after a fiery speech in which she denounced the head of her countrys dominant center-right party for working with the far right, a maneuver that broke a long-standing taboo in a nation that was home to historys most horrifying fascist movement.

Reichinnek, whose party name translates to the Left, is also a political success: Die Linke made a shocking breakthrough in Februarys election. It had been expected to get less than 5 percent of the vote but instead won 8.8 percent, thanks largely to the youth vote. This was enough to surpass the threshold to sit in the Bundestag, Germanys parliament.

Die Linkes success defied a dark trend in German politics. The centrist parties have swung to the right on immigration, and the nation has seen a huge surge in popularity for the nationalist far-right Alternative for Germany party. The AfD openly despises Islam and downplays the Holocaust, and its now the countrys second-largest party.

During that period, the far right in Germany and America have become intertwined, with high-profile MAGA figures defending or promoting the AfD. Just before the election, Vice President J.D. Vance blasted Germanys mainstream parties for stonewalling the AfD. Rep. Paulina Luna has met with AfD members, and the partys deputy leader met with officials from the National Security Council and the State Department. This friendship has emerged as Germanys own intelligence agency has classified it as an extremist groupa move Secretary of State Marco Rubio has condemned as tyrannicaland as it emerged that the intelligence community suspected that AfD members were passing on sensitive military secrets to Russia.

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But Reichinnek insists that her countrys far-right lurch is not irreversible, and she thinks the lessons her party has learned are applicable to the United States own fight against authoritarianism.

In the aftermath of Die Linkes achievement, many have credited Reichinneks social media fluency for the breakthrough, particularly among young people. Reichinnek, however, thinks that misses the bigger picture: There is, she says, an opening for a party that draws a sharp contrast to the right and to the center, particularly if it listens closely to what its citizenry is unhappy about and offers real solutions to those problems. If that sounds familiar, its because earlier this month, democratic socialist Zohran Mamdani became the mayor of Americas center of commerce by hitting similar themes: knocking on massive numbers of doors and focusing on making the city more affordable.

Reichinnek was in town this month for a German American conference, and she took advantage of her time in the U.S. to speak with members of the Democratic Socialists of America and former New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio about Mamdanis success. Slate met up with Reichinnek in Manhattan to discuss the U.S. burgeoning leftist movements, the MAGA movements newfound friendship with the AfD, and lessons for resisting fascismboth in Germany and in the United States. This interview has been edited and condensed for clarity.

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Molly Olmstead: You were a huge political success story in the latest German elections. During your visit here, have people been asking you for advice about how Mamdani can make that transition from an outsider campaign to working in government?

Heidi Reichinnek: That was one of the main topics, because we know what its like to not be able to meet all the expectations. He had these ideas that he always talked aboutthe rent freeze, free child care, free and fast buses. And I think the most important thing is that you have to try as fast as possible to do one of those things. But its also important that you keep talking to people, that your supporters are still on the ground, explaining what is easy to do and what is not as easy, and where you need pressure from the people on other politicians. So this is, I guess, the most important part: still being close to the people.

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From your experience, are there any pitfalls you think he should avoid?

I know the left tends to fight among themselves becausewe know how we are. I told the DSA, You have to keep on supporting him. Not everything he will do will be met with your approval, but try to understand why some things take time. There are enough people that want him to fail. Dont help them.

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Is the German left any better at avoiding the infighting than the American left, then?

No. No leftist party is immune to this. We were left for dead last year, completely done for, mainly because of internal strife. Partly from different views, but mainly because of personal problems. We had this separation from one of our most famous figures, [Sahra Wagenknecht]. She and some of our members of parliament left the party. Everyone in the media was like, OK, thats the end of the left, they dont stand a chance. And we said, Yeah, well, we are fucked. It cant get any worse. Lets fight. So, out of pure desperation, we all said, OK, we will not allow anyone from the outside or from the inside to destroy this party we all worked so hard for. I mean, its an amazing feat that theres a Democratic Socialist Party in the German parliament. We cannot let it go to waste.

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So everyone sat down together and said, OK, what can we do now? We voted for a new board and new heads of the party. Its much better. People are communicating. People are fighting, but its mostlynot always, I have to admitconstructive.

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If you were considered a lost cause, how were you able to make such a surprising comeback? Why do you think so many young people were excited by the left?

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We said, OK, we have to focus on the peoples main problems. So we went door to door. We knocked on 100,000 doors, just like Mamdani did, and asked the people: How can we help you? What are your main problems? What do you need us for? And they mostly said its the rent, or the cost of living, or food, and so on. And this is where we chose our main topics in this campaignplus, of course, inequality and the distribution of wealth, because its always a topic the left talks about, which is right. And we just kept talking about these things. I couldnt even hear myself anymore because I always said the same things.

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Of course, another reason we succeeded was because of our strong stance against the far right. The AfD is a right-wing party, and they managed to dominate the debate around the topic of immigration. And our conservative party, the Christian Democratic Union, they just followed. And Sahras new party and, sadly enough, even the Social Democratic Party and the Greens. All the other parties were talking about how to lessen the numbers and how dangerous [immigration] is. And we were just like, No, we are not going to do that. We want to talk about rent and food. We are not going to throw immigrants or queer people in front of the bus. We will focus on topics that are important for everyone. And it worked. We got more members. They were saying, Hey, we really need this party in the parliament because they are putting our topics up front. And we got the 8.8 percent. I still cant believe it. Its crazy. It was, like, a year ago that we started it all, and suddenly Im here.

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Youve been described as Germanys TikTok queen. How much do you credit social media with reaching people and getting that message out?

Everyone is concentrating on social media, and I think its overrated. I think its just one of the pillars to reach people. Its still important to talk with people at their doors. But it was, of course, important. [Getting on TikTok] was the best decision ever. I was just talking about topics that were important to me, and people were happy that somebody leftist was actually on TikTok. And this helped us gain support among young people, especially young women. We were so fucking proud because there were so many young women and young queer people coming up to me, saying, Thanks to you, Im supporting the party or I became politically active.

The other big story was the AfDs 20 percent. Do you have any thoughts as to why young people are attracted to this right-wing movement?

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Yeah, because they are not satisfied with how things are. They cannot pay rent, the wages arent high enough, the food is getting more expensive. They realize that the promises of the [centrist] parties are not working. And the problem, of course, is that our far-right party is extremely smart when it comes to using social media. They lie constantly. They say, OK, you are angrywe are also angry. [The parties in power] are the problem. So just vote for us, because they hate us. And we will fight for you. Its completely ridiculous, but it works, sadly enough, especially among young males. You have the same problem, I guess.

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Youve said that your party is the bulwark against the right-wing movement. How so? How have you been fighting it?

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So what we tried was always to show an alternative. Our goal is to say to them, Hey, you are angry, and rightfully so. Im also angry. But I want to use my anger and make something positive with you. If you punish [welfare recipients], if they lose their housing, does it help you? Do you have 1 euro more? I dont think so. So why are you not fighting for higher wages? This is how we try to pull young people back.

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Another part is, you have to fund organizations that fight for democracy and against right-wing extremism, groups that actually work closely with these people.

Its mixed, getting people back from the AfD. In east Germany, 40 percent voted for them. In Germany in general, its about 25 percent. Its crazy. I mean, a quarter of the people decided to vote for a far-right party. So apparently somethings really wrong, and I think you have among their voters quite a few that you will not reach anymore. But I still think there are enough people left that are angry and just think, OK, Ill vote for them just to show them that we can fight back somehow. I dont know. Its difficult. We see this gender gap in the votes, so this concerns me quite a lot: how to reach young men. We need to talk to them and explain to them that everything the AfD is doing is against their own interests. Its really tough to explain this to people. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesnt, and its so easy to find scapegoatsrefugees, in our case.

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But we are also trying to ban this party. Our supreme court could [hear arguments] whether they are against democracy and against human rightswhich they are, in my opinionand then they could ban them. But to start this whole process, we need a majority in the parliament, and we dont have that majority. Its really frustrating because, OK, we have this democracy that is able to defend itself. We have the option to ban such a party, but we are not using it. And we, as Germans, should know what can happen if such a party ever takes power.

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I do think Americans might be surprised to hear you can ban a major party. What would you say to Americans who would argue that thats anti-democratic?

Just because its a party that was voted for by people, its not a democratic party. This party is a right-wing extremist party. They are against democracy. They are trying to undermine democracy from the inside. They are against human rights. They are working against our constitution. And as Germans, because of our history, we have a democracy that fights back, that can defend itself. And one of the elements of this is that we can ban parties that try to take down our democracy and our constitution. And in my opinion, this is exactly the point where we are. To me, they are like the follow-up from the Nazi parties we used to have in Germany.

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German intelligence has labeled the AfD an extremist organization. Meanwhile, the Trump administration believes that the AfD is a legitimate political party and has argued that the long-standing norm against forming coalitions with the party or otherwise working with it is anti-democratic. Is that something that is weighing on you at all in any of these discussionsthe fact that you have the president of the United States trying to interfere in domestic German politics?

Its actually quite problematic that some perversely rich guys meddle in our affairs in their own way. Of course the AfD is trying to legitimize itself by pointing to Trump. But on the other hand, they are also very close to Russia and to Putin. So its difficult for them. Who is actually the person you want to follow?

But its not only right-wing extremists. Its also our conservative partysome of them have strong ties to the MAGA movement. If they become more and more like this MAGA movement, then weve really got a problem, because they have 60 percent [of the votes in parliament], together with the AfD. Some in the conservative party are saying we have to treat them like other opposition parties and maybe let them take power so people realize nothing is changing for them for the better. Maybe we can show them that they cannot govern. I think its just the biggest mistake you could make. If the conservative party decides to work with the AfD because they think they can keep them down, then we are lost. This is what really, really scares me.

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Politico Europe reported on an internal document from the AfD where they were talking about wanting to emulate American politics and make German politics more of a left-right binary, with left-right culture wars. Do you think that has any chance of success?

It is already successful. To me, its ridiculous. But it works, especially because they are using social media to spread this propaganda. They made video after video. They used Telegram, they used Signal groups, they used WhatsApp and TikTok and Facebookeverything you can think of.

They start with queer people, with trans people, because they can easily wind people up about it. They start by trying to portray these people as pure evil and a danger to family values and so on. Its the same play that you are using here.

They had this discussion, during a parliamentary debate, when they wanted to forbid gender-inclusive language, at least in official documents. In German, you have different kinds of nouns, female and male, and there are ways to be gender inclusive. I said, Nobody is forced to do it. Language changes itself. Do it or dont do it: Its your choice. But they are acting as if we, the leftist party, are trying to force this on them. [In the debate], I read how often they actually put this topic on the agenda in the Bundestag. I said, In the last two years, you brought up this topic five or six times. And guess how often the rest of us did it? Zero. But they do it because people get riled up about this kind of stuff, and that helps them gain support.

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Youve long been facing a version of far-right politics that descends directly from the Nazi movement. The far-right anti-democratic movement here in the U.S. is drifting increasingly toward fascism. What do you think we can learn from Germany about avoiding the rise of extremism?

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Its not like in Germany, its that much better. So I think the question is: How can you manage to not give up hope? I mean, you have these [electoral] successes. Thats the beginning. I think something is starting to change. So this is what I actually hope for, that during the next elections, democratic socialists will gain even more strength. Because I think we need exactly that kind of politics to combat our extremism.

In Germany, we dont have these kinds of huge rallies where there are hundreds of thousands of people. All these events during the election campaign, we had, like, 10 or 20. And then I had 50. And suddenly there were 500 for us. It was crazy. No other party managed to reach this many people700, 800. This is something completely new in German politics.

[Mamdanis victory] was, for us, really empowering, to be honest. I mean, I never expected anything less. But it showed that there can be successful democratic socialists all over the world. Next year, we have elections in Berlin, and we hope well be able to repeat that success.
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Emerging from the curtains on the first night of Crooked Con, like a reliever trotting onto the field in the bottom of the ninth, was none other than Barack Obama. He was the surprise guest on a live episode of Pod Save America, the flagship podcast of Crooked Mediaa content studio founded by the quartet of ex-Obama staffers and speechwriters Jon Favreau, Jon Lovett, Tommy Vietor, and Dan Pfeiffer, who produced this convention. The former president had been asked to deliver a keynote speech to the gathered Democrats attending the expo, and like everyone else in the theater, he had a bit of a pep in his step. Crooked Con, essentially the companys fan festival, is occurring in the aftermath of a string of election victories that jolted renewed energy into a Democratic coalition previously thought dead in the water. Obamas message, therefore, was one of unity. To protect the tenuous good vibes that are currently binding liberals together, said Obama, we must resist the affiliatory fractiousness that has tormented Democrats since he left office.

Your task is not to impose litmus tests, he continued. We had Abigail Spanberger win, and Zohran Mamdani win, and they are all part of a vision for the future.

That commitment to pluralism is threaded throughout the Crooked Con itinerary of seminars, interviews, and salons. The ticketed audience is here primarily because nobody seems especially sure what the Democrats represent in 2025. Depending on who you ask, the destiny of the party should be framed through the prism of Navy helicopter pilots, or card-carrying Democratic Socialists of America members, or onetime CIA operatives. Amid this confusion, Crooked Con has invited all parties to the table to see what shakes loose. The marble atriums of D.C.s Ronald Reagan Building will host both the red-state-whispering Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear and the Bernie-boosting California Rep. Ro Khanna. The Biden administrations trust-busting former Federal Trade Commission Chair Lina Khan is here, but so is the notoriously smug centrist wonk Matthew Yglesias. (Hes set to debate progressive policy goals with Waleed Shahid, a strategist who has worked for Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.) In that sense, Crooked Con is a weekend-long battle of the coalitions various forces. But the point isnt to pick a winner. Instead, its to get everyone comfortable with the war.

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If we are to believe the party has grown too blinkered and conflict-averseallergic to its own inherent fringes and eccentricitiesthen Crooked Con serves as a kind of shock therapy. The internal harmony so often promoted by the Democratic leadership has landed them in the abyss. And for what purpose? Its not like those good manners and contrived niceties ever managed to paper over those divisions in the first place. The gloves have long needed to be dropped, and that means the patrons here will enjoy some beltway WWE.

And so, on a brisk morning in the nations capitalhours removed from Obamas feel-good commencementthe crowd at Crooked Con grew steadily more apprehensive as they watched Tim Miller get into an argument with Hasan Piker under hot ballroom spotlights. The topic at hand was Israel, an issue that reliably reveals the fissures within the Democratic big tent. Piker, the megapopular Twitch-streaming socialist, referred to the nation as a Jewish ethnostate with an exterminationist policy toward Palestinians. Miller, the former Republican and star pundit of the conservative news site the Bulwark, retorted that several other countries in the Middle East could also be categorized as ethnostates. The fight percolated predictably from there, rising in intensity, until Jessica Tarlovthe liberal punching bag on Foxs The Fivebroke things up. She reminded the men that the panel they were guesting on had nothing to do with foreign policy. It was, in fact, titled, Are We Having Fun Yet?, and was ostensibly focused on how the Democrats can shed their dour, censorious image. Listening to them go back and forth, Tarlov said, she wasnt having much fun at all.

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It wasnt long ago that this sort of publicly aired rowdiness was anathema within the liberal sphere. Piker was challenging a foundational doctrine of Democratic policy; thats not something that was often granted a seat at the table. And frankly, as a card-carrying millennial who was absolutely socialized to believe that anyone airing something I disagreed with ought to be swiftly reprimanded and deplatformed, I dont think I myself have fully broken free of the clenched language policies that defined the old order. (Indeed, I felt a fluttering anxiety in my stomach watching Piker and Miller go back and forth.) But ultimately, the argument was a fabulous spectacle; zippy and podcast-ythe muscular elements of style that the powers that be assert the Democrats are missing. (I disagreed with Tarlov. I was having fun.)

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But while Crooked Con isnt articulating what the future of the party might stand for, it does make the case for what it could look like. The Pod Save America boys are asking us to imagine a version of the Democratic Party that is loud, discursive, unruly, but nonetheless more capable of weathering its divisions than it was previously. Its a thesis encapsulated by Crooked Cons slogan, streaked across a banner in the central foyer, reading Freedom & Content for All. And frankly, when you consider the grace that MAGAdom extends to its own wing nutshow a coalition could be broadened, on vibes alone, to include RFK-fried vaccine-obsessed moms, vampiric tech oligarchs, and downwardly mobile Barstool Menyou do have to wonder if the next phase of liberalism will manage some version of the same formula.

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I loved it. I loved the tense moments of it, said Lovett, the panels moderator, when I asked him afterward about the Piker-Miller dustup. Those conversations are so hard to have on the internet. Our great challenge is to convince people who have serious reservations about each other to understand that theyre on the same side. You gotta practice democracy. And part of practicing democracy is saying, I really dont like what you said, but I understand that you have a different point of view. Thats so earnest, but its true.

Most of the attendees I spoke to at Crooked Con have been listening to Pod Save America since its very genesiswhen it carried the moniker Keeping It 1600 and gained steam as one of the Ringer podcast networks early success stories. I possess a distinct memory of tuning into the Keeping It 1600 livestream at the end of the 2016 presidential cycle, watching as all of their institutional confidence slowly drained out of their makeshift studio as election night put Trump past Clinton and into the White House.

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Naturally, the majority of the people at Crooked Con are dyed-in-the-wool Democrats, and all of them look the part. (The crowd skews female and thirtysomething. In the interviews I conducted, I met a professor, a social worker, and someone who works on immigration policy. All of them lived around D.C.) Im part of the same tribe. Crooked Media, formed in the aftermath of that devastation, was pitched to people exactly like me; a source of hyperpartisan media for a disgruntled Obama generation desperate for a place to salve their wounds. Looking back, its funny to consider how the decentralized media ecosystem Democrats are losing out onthe endless pleading for a liberal Joe Roganhad already been conceived by four white dudes who fit the bill. The Pod Save America staff remain funny, erudite, and extremely online; the only qualifications necessary to be adept podcasters. Shouldnt that have gotten the job done?

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Well, as the years dragged on, it became clear that Pod Save America lacked a certain renegade spirit necessary to preside over the rapidly morphing zeitgeist. Im still unable to diagnose exactly why that is. You could gesture toward the quarter-zip dorkiness inherent in the aesthetics of the Crooked branda liberal sensibility that has fallen way out of style. (It bears repeating that the podcast that made the boys famous contains a cloying pun in its name.) Similarly, as someone who has listened for more than a decade now, I had personally grown weary of the eggshells-walking approach the hosts applied to the bifurcating policy debates in the left-liberal strata. The hosts seemed to display an ironclad aversion to upsetting the apple cart. I still dont have a great sense of where some of them stand on certain wedge issues, like border enforcement or trans people participating in sports. All of that is related to a larger problem. The Democrats, we have learned, lack authenticityand considering how Crooked Media has historically matched the precise temperament of the party, Pod Save America never felt like a truly independent property. It was, inevitably, going to go down with the ship.

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Lately though, Ive noticed a distinct shift in the Crooked Media doctrine. The company has become mercifully unburdened by Democratic directives, and I think thats because the version of the party the Crooked founders swore fealty to no longer exists. With their White House years firmly in the rearview mirror, Pod Save America no longer wishes to preserve the dwindling relevance of the era that birthed it. Instead, the show is keen to embrace whatever political contract is on the horizon.

That means Crooked Media served as the platform for Graham Platner, the embattled populist Senate candidate from Maine, to put his spin on the Nazi tattoo that, until very recently, was emblazoned on his chest. In an interview on Pod Save America, Platner recounted to a generous Vietor that he didnt understand the context of the tattoo when he got it. The wonky justification, and Crookeds cover, seems to be resonating with voters. Platner is in a competitive race with the Democratic establishments preferred choice, Maine Gov. Janet Mills.

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The company has also been much more vocally opposed to Israels psychotic handling of the Gaza crisis, and considerably less averse to the partys emergent socialist flank. Favreau, in particular, has pleaded for Democratic politicians to refuse money from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, and called Sen. Chuck Schumer and Rep. Hakeem Jeffries pathetic for their hesitancy to endorse mayor-elect Zohran Mamdani. (Remember, this guy once wrote speeches for Obama.)

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What was it that Gramsci said? The old world is dying, and the new world struggles to be born. Crooked Cons media room was stuffed with a variety of legacy media operativesan Atlantic writer filing on deadline, a Washington Post reporter sipping coffeebut all of us were outnumbered by good-looking young people, armed with tiny microphones, there to record TikToks from the expo floor. (Also earning media badges were a gaggle of full-time memers who have carved out a living by making, sharing, and remixing lefty image macros.) I heard from someone that the organizers imagine that, someday, Crooked Con could evolve into a liberal version of the Conservative Political Action Conferencewhich has lately become an arena for MAGAdoms most eccentric creatures to preen and flaunt. A good way to jettison a prudish reputation is to let the shitposters in the building.

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And maybe theyre right? Maybe the rehabilitation of the Democrats requires the party to become meaner and funnierembodying, perhaps, a new definition of wokeness. It recalls an incident on a recent episode of Pod Save America that I found oddly significant, in its own profane way. The hosts were roasting Federal Communications Commission Chair Brendan Carr, who has taken to wearing a gold brooch festooned with Donald Trumps head on his lapel. Lovett, who is openly gay, called Carr a fag for doing so. (I almost choked on my sandwich.) The demise of cancel culture has long been perceived as a right-wing cultural victory, but the ramifications have proven to cut both ways. At long last, the Democrats are letting it fly.

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Like it or not, this is what the people want, and it might be what theyve wanted for a long time. I caught up with Piker before his panel and asked if he felt out of place as a career Jacobin walking around a campus teeming with longtime D.C. politicos. He doesnt think so, at least not anymore. Like everyone else at Crooked Con, Piker is luxuriating in what he thinks is a vibe shift. People are more receptive to my kind of messaging, he said. Its hard to argue with him, considering how a state full of aggrieved Democrats had just decreed that an attorney general who fantasizes about the death of his enemys children was no longer beyond the pale.

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Hopefully, continued Piker, well create the Marxist-Leninist wine-mom vanguard someday.

Still, the question remains how long some of those contradictions can be maintained. As Crooked Con wound down, I kept bumping into some of the more ancillary characters of the overarching Democratic brand. Neera Tanden, the longtime consultant who became embroiled in enough Twitter spats with Bernie-aligned agitators to torpedo her nomination in the Biden administration, is in the building. When I spy Lis Smithveteran of presidential campaigns run by Pete Buttigieg, Martin OMalley, and Obama, former girlfriend of Eliot Spitzer, and archetypical D.C. swamp residentI cant help but ask for a selfie. In a quick interview, Smith railed against the Democratic establishment, and while she deserves credit for molding Buttigieg into the podcast-fluent surrogate he is today, I couldnt help but laugh. This protean moment in American politics has enabled an unlimited range of actors to claim the mantle of the proletariats voice. Before long though, the party will need to assert what it actually believes.

My last stop at the convention was a panel about fighting authoritarianism. It was hosted by Favreau, who was interviewing lawyers Skye Perryman and Norm Eisenthe latter of whom captained the first impeachment of Trump. That trial wrapped up in the early months of 2020, but given the tumult that followed, it might as well have happened a billion years ago. (It was about the perfect phone call, remember? The one with Zelensky?) This was Crooked Media playing the hits, revving up the room into a frothy rage over the many hypocrisies of the president. The crowd lapped it up of course, but the whole affair felt vaguely old-fashioned; a step out of pace with Crooked Cons disposition. The page is being turned, whether we realize it or not. 2026 is just around the corner. Trump is in his final term as president. And as the Democratic Party slowly escapes his shadow, liberalism itself is up for grabs. No wonder everyone is trying to catch it.
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Nominations are now being accepted for the United States Harness Writers Association's 2025 Caretaker of the Year award.

The award, sponsored by Art Zubrod and Leah Cheveries Fair Island Farm in conjunction with the United States Harness Writers Association (USHWA), recognizes the unsung heroes of the sport: the caretakers who maintain the health and welfare of the horses on a daily basis.

Any caretaker working for any stable or farm in North America is eligible to be honoured as the Fair Island Farm Caretaker of the Year. All that is needed to nominate is an email that consists of 200 words minimum from an individual or group detailing the skills and special qualities of the caretaker.

The Fair Island Farm Caretaker of the Year will receive a cash prize of $2,500 USD as well as transportation costs to the USHWA Dan Patch Awards banquet in Orlando, Florida, on Sunday night, Feb. 22, 2026, where he or she will be recognized and presented with a trophy. The winner will also enjoy a two-night stay at Rosen Shingle Creek, host hotel for the USHWA activities, as well as two complimentary dinner tickets.

"Leah and I are honoured to continue the tradition of recognizing caretakers and the hard work they do on a daily basis," said Zubrod. "And it is especially gratifying to honour one most-deserving person as the Caretaker of the Year."

Initially titled the Groom of the Year Award when first presented in 1982, the honour was instituted as a result of a suggestion made by Delvin Miller at the annual Harness Tracks of America meeting when he received HTA's Stanley F. Bergstein Messenger Award. Previously sponsored annually by HTA and Hanover Shoe Farms, the tradition was continued in 2015 by MGM Northfield Park and USHWA, with Fair Island Farm coming on board in 2019.

"The U.S. Harness Writers Association is once again pleased to be able to honour the Caretaker of the Year in our Dan Patch Awards presentation," said Michael Carter, USHWA president. "Great thanks to Art and Leah for their sponsorship of this award through their Fair Island Farm. The caretakers are so important to this sport and it is especially gratifying to be able to work with Fair Island Farm in the recognition of these outstanding individuals."

The winner will be chosen by an eight-person selection committee comprised of USHWA members, all of whom are former caretakers: Tim Bojarski (chair), Kim Rinker, Tom Charters, Moira Fanning, Jessica Hallett, Dean Hoffman, Mary McDermott and Shawn Wiles.

All nomination emails must be sent to committee chairman Bojarski at [email protected] and received by Sunday, Dec. 7, 2025.

(USHWA)
1 min read

Orange and Ecole Polytechnique announce the signing of a strategic partnership aimed at strengthening research, innovation, and education in two key areas for digital sovereignty: artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

Tech News Of The Day

This collaboration brings together Ecole Polytechniques academic expertise and Oranges technological innovation capabilities. Together, the two institutions aim to accelerate the development of trusted digital solutions to support Europe in mastering the essential technologies for its strategic autonomy.

A partnership structured around four major ambitions

The agreement outlines several complementary areas of focus:

The creation of a Research Chair, supported by Oranges patronage, dedicated to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.

The development of a joint center of excellence, bringing together researchers, PhD students, and engineers from both organizations around applied research projects.

Support for excellent in education, including internships for students and PhD candidates as part of their thesis work at Ecole Polytechnique.

A continued commitment to diversity, gender equality, and equal opportunity, with awareness-raising actions and promotion of scientific fields, as well as joint tutoring and mentoring programs.

The partnership will be officially presented on Wednesday, November 19 at 7:00 PM during a keynote by Laura Chaubard, President and Director General of Ecole Polytechnique, and Christel Heydemann, Director General of Orange, as part of the Orange Open Tech 2025 event.

The VIP evening will be broadcast live on HelloFuture.com.

Laura Chaubard, President and Director General of Ecole Polytechnique: With Orange, we share the belief that scientific excellence must serve the public interest and technological sovereignty. This partnership strengthens our efforts in two essential fieldsAI and cybersecurityand opens new perspectives for education, innovation, and the production of trusted technologies.

Christel Heydemann, CEO of Orange, adds: To face the major challenges of our time, Europe must equip itself with the means to achieve digital sovereignty. This partnership with Ecole Polytechnique accelerates our investment in the critical technologies of tomorrowresponsible AI, quantum cybersecuritywhile training a new generation of experts. It is by combining scientific excellence and industrial innovation that we will build a trusted European technological ecosystem.
Indias economic prowess is on the rise, and the countrys growing startup ecosystem is making a significant contribution to this growth. While the countrys startup ecosystem is bringing up new innovations in numerous industries like technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), FMCG, Healthcare, and others, the fintech sector is quietly becoming one of the worlds most innovative sectors. Once dominated by men, the fintech industry is witnessing a rapid increase in involvement by women, whose innovative thinking, critical thinking, and capabilities are transforming the fintech ecosystem at scale.

Tech News Of The Day

The role of women leaders in finance is directly translating to newer, more ambitious business ideas that are contributing towards the countrys financial services ecosystem. From venture capital, financial rewards to extending credit lines and payment ecosystems, these startups highlight the capabilities, along with the new-age thinking of these industrious women. As a result, they are not only becoming successful in transforming Indias fintech ecosystem but also motivating the next generation of women to join and build in one of the countrys most vibrant startup sectors in the future. Lets take a look at 5 of these women leaders who are transforming Indias fintech ecosystem with their industriousness, innovation, and capabilities.

Indias first rewards-based app that provides its users with Bitcoin and Gold on their purchases, GoSats is transforming how Indians make online transactions at scale. With Roshni Aslams role as Co-Founder, GoSats has made significant strides since its inception, accumulating over 1.1 million users so far. The company is currently working in its ambitious plan of doubling its user base by the end of 2025.

Aslams ingenuity and innovation have been among the driving forces behind GoSats rise to prominence. A post-graduate in Accounting and Finance from the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow, she has extensive experience of working within the alternative finance sector, with particular emphasis on virtual digital assets (VDAs). She has also worked as an Investment Analyst and a Research Analyst at some of the most prominent organizations within alternative finance, before taking the leap to establish GoSats.

2. Paroma Chatterjee, CEO, Revolut India

One of Indias most innovative women entrepreneurs, Paroma Chatterjee, is the CEO of Revolut India, a fintech company that offers a digital payments platform with a prepaid wallet with UPI, domestic and international Visa cards, budgeting tools, as well as insurance. Revoluts services can be accessed with its mobile app, and its unique offering assists both domestic and international payments. The company also has a reward program that has become highly popular among its target audience.

An alumna of St. Xaviers College, Kolkata, and Indian Institute of Management, Lucknow, Ms. Chatterjee began her career at Procter & Gamble, before working her way up in the ladder with ICICI Bank, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Bharti Airtel, Flipkart, and others, before joining Revolut India as the Chief Executive Officer in April 2021. Under her leadership, Revolut has successfully expanded its operations in India, while also garnering a massive user base in the country.

3. Hardika Shah, Founder & CEO, Kinara Capital

Working with the goal of assisting and transforming SME owners in India, Hardika Shah is the founder and CEO of Kinara Capital, a fintech firm that provides collateral-free loans to small businesses. As the founder, Shahs vision of financial inclusion of small business owners has resulted in international recognition, as she was named in Forbes Indias Top Self Made Women 2022 list, along with the Women Transforming India award by NITI Aayog.

Before her stint with Kinara Capital began, Shah spent more than 20 years working as a management consultant. She also has an MBA from Columbia Business School and UC Berkeleys Haas School of Business. Her originality and critical thinking have been the catalysts of her career growth, leading to an impact on numerous small business founders in India.
Continued dedication to addressing the unique challenges of OT, IoT and CPS cybersecurity attributed to strong company growth

SAN FRANCISCO, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Nozomi Networks, the leader in OT, IoT, and CPS security, today announced it has been named to the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 , a ranking of the 500 fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies in North America, now in its 31st year.

Nozomi Networks has protected the critical infrastructure sector from cyber threats since 2013. Unlike IT security, Nozomi addresses the unique challenges of securing physical processes and equipment in industries like energy, manufacturing, and healthcare, where cyber incidents can lead to damaging real-world consequences such as hospital outages and water shortages.

"Since the beginning, the Nozomi Networks platform has made it possible to quickly address security gaps that mission-critical infrastructure often face, protecting them from detrimental cyberattacks," said Nozomi CEO, Edgard Capdevielle. "In an era where nation-state attacks are on the rise, and resources for OT/IoT operators are limited, this prestigious honor is a testament to the work that we're doing and the trust that our customers have placed in us. With Nozomi, organizations can rely on us to minimize their risks and maximize their resilience."

"This year's rankings highlight both enduring leadership and breakthrough momentum," said Wolfe Tone, US Deloitte Private & Emerging Client Portfolio leader and partner, Deloitte Tax LLP. "More than half of the winners are prior honorees, yet the majority of the top ten are first-time entrants  demonstrating the staying power of established leaders alongside the accelerating growth of new innovators across key sectors. As in previous years, private companies continue to dominate, underscoring the agility that private enterprises bring to competitive markets, enabling the exceptional triple and quadruple digit growth reflected in these rankings."

Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024. This recognition also follows a period of tremendous momentum for the company, including Mitsubishi Electric's intent to acquire Nozomi, multiple partnership announcements with companies like NVIDIA and Schneider Electric , and major updates to products including Nozomi Arc .

About Nozomi Networks

Nozomi Networks protects the world's critical infrastructure from cyber threats. Our platform uniquely combines network and endpoint visibility, threat detection, and AI-powered analysis for faster, more effective incident response. Customers rely on us to minimize risk and complexity while maximizing operational resilience. www.nozominetworks.com

About the 2025 Deloitte Technology Fast 500

Now in its 31st year, the Deloitte Technology Fast 500 provides a ranking of the fastest-growing technology, media, telecommunications, life sciences, fintech, and energy tech companies  both public and private  in North America. Technology Fast 500 award winners are selected based on percentage fiscal year revenue growth from 2021 to 2024.

In order to be eligible for Technology Fast 500 recognition, companies must own proprietary intellectual property or proprietary technology that significantly contributes to the company's operating revenues. Companies must have base-year operating revenues of at least US$50,000, and current-year operating revenues of at least US$5 million, with a growth rate of 50% or greater. Additionally, companies must be in business for a minimum of four years and be headquartered within North America (United States and Canada).

*Please see www.deloitte.com/us/about for a detailed description of their legal structure.

SOURCE Nozomi Networks
(TBTCO) - Von vay nuoc ngoai cua Chinh phu, ac biet la von ODA va von vay uu ai a va ang tiep tuc ong vai tro quan trong oi voi phat trien kinh te - xa hoi, au tu ket cau ha tang, giao duc ao tao, khoa hoc cong nghe va chuyen oi so cua at nuoc. Tuy nhien, nghiep vu cho vay lai hien nay van con mot so kho khan
ONTARIO, Calif., Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ontario International Airport (ONT) officials expect to welcome more than 234,000 passengers over the Thanksgiving travel period, a record high and a 4% increase over last year.

Based on current schedules, airlines are offering 9% more seats at ONT this Thanksgiving compared with the same period last year. Ontario officials are forecasting passenger volumes will increase by a more modest amount with some travelers forgoing holiday air travel plans because mandated flight cancellations imposed during the recently-ended federal government shutdown.

Southern California's Ontario International Airport is expecting another busy Thanksgiving weekend.

"As we head into the Thanksgiving season, I'm genuinely grateful for the collaboration we enjoy every day with our federal partners, our airlines, and our concessionaires and for the trust our travelers place in us to deliver the reliable world-class experience they deserve," said Atif Elkadi CEO of the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA). "We're excited to welcome nearly a quarter million passengers through ONT this holiday season, and with strong flight schedules continuing through the end of the year, we're ready to keep serving our community with pride."

The 11-day travel period stretches from Friday, November 21, through Monday, December 1, with the busiest days expected to be:

Sunday, November 30 (24,696 travelers)

Wednesday, November 26 (23,634)

Monday, December 1 (23,390)

The 2025 passenger volume is expected to surpass the previous high for Thanksgiving travel set in 2024 when nearly 225,000 fliers moved through ONT.

Thanksgiving

Holiday 2025 Estimated Passengers Versus 2024 Total

Seats Versus

2024

234,152 4.2 % 305,970 9.0 %

The Thanksgiving holiday projections will help keep ONT on track to welcome more than 7 million air travelers for the year. Through the first 10 months of the year, the Southern California gateway welcomed more than 5.9 million passengers, up 0.6% from prior year, airport officials announced. Domestic volume  5.4 million passengers  was down modestly by 0.7% while international travel  446,000 passengers  was up 21% during the first 10 months of 2025.

During October, 639,598 passengers traveled through ONT, a slight decrease of 0.5% compared with October 2024. Domestic travelers totaled 586,231, down 3.9% while the international passenger count was 53,367, a sharp increase of 61.3%.

"Ontario continues to be the destination of choice for air travel in Southern California, and we are looking forward to closing out the year on a high note  welcoming more than 7 million air travelers and setting a new record for annual passenger volume since return of the aviation hub to local control in 2016," Elkadi said.

Passenger Totals Oct 2025 Oct 2024 Change YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Change Domestic 585,720 609,773 -3.9 % 5,471,028 5,511,220 -0.7 % International 53,367 33,080 61.3 % 446,402 368,849 21.0 % Total 639,598 642,853 -0.5 % 5,917,041 5,880,069 0.6 %

Air cargo tonnage declined by 8.3% in October, but remained in positive territory for the year. From January through October, air cargo tonnage was 6.2% higher than the same period in 2024 with mail volume up by 156% while freight decreased by 4.5%.

Air cargo (tonnage) Oct 2025 Oct 2024 Change YTD 2025 YTD 2024 Change Freight 62,415 68,982 -9.6 % 569,526 596,392 -4.5 % Mail 10,979 11,004 -0.2 % 109,043 42,590 156.0 % Total 73,474 79,986 -8.3 % 678,569 638,982 6.2 %

About Ontario International Airport

Ontario International Airport (ONT) is the second most popular mid-sized airport in the United States, according to J.D. Power's most recent North America Airport Satisfaction Study. Located in the Inland Empire, ONT is approximately 35 miles east of downtown Los Angeles in the center of Southern California. It is a full-service airport which offers nonstop commercial jet service to two dozen major airports in the U.S., Mexico, Central America and Taiwan. More information is available at www.flyOntario.com. Follow @flyONT on Facebook, X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram

About the Ontario International Airport Authority (OIAA)

The OIAA was formed in August 2012 by a Joint Powers Agreement between the City of Ontario and the County of San Bernardino to provide overall direction for the management, operations, development and marketing of ONT for the benefit of the Southern California economy and the residents of the airport's four-county catchment area. OIAA leaders include Ontario Mayor pro Tem Alan D. Wapner (President), San Bernardino County Supervisor Curt Hagman (Vice President), Ontario City Council Member Jim W. Bowman (Secretary), Retired Riverside Mayor Ronald O. Loveridge (Treasurer) and retired business executive Julia Gouw (Commissioner).

OIAA Media Contact:

Steve Lambert, (909) 841-7527 [email protected]

SOURCE Ontario International Airport
If cockroach have no business in fowl party, politicians should also stay out of police acti
HBOs new Tim Robinson series The Chair Company is equal parts hilarious comedy and intriguing mystery which serves up serious I Think You Should Leave vibes. Plus, since its HBOs biggest comedy in more than five years, its safe to say its already a hit.

That said, the show is far less about chairs than the title would imply. I went in thinking The Chair Company would be all about chairs  from recliners to Chippendales to grandmas rocking chair  yet its really about Tim Robinsons character, Ron Trosper, investigating an office chair company, and the chairs themselves are really just incidental.

So, I decided to pull together this list of The Chair Company trivia along with some actual chair knowledge to compensate for the one area where the show is seriously lacking.

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15 The Creators of The Chair Company Have Been Writing Together for Years The creators of The Chair Company are Tim Robinson and Zach Kanin. They shared an office at Saturday Night Live and frequently worked as writing partners on the sketch show. In addition to The Chair Company, they co-created I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson. Advertisement

14 The Shows Logline In 2024, Tim Robinson first offered up the logline for the series, saying An embarrassing incident happens to a guy at work, and he uncovers a conspiracy theory that he follows, based on that embarrassing incident.

13 Where King Tut Put His Tush The oldest known chairs come from ancient Egypt.

12 The Shirt Salesman is Playing Himself The memorably odd, soft-spoken shirt salesman played by Jared Lindner in Episode Two is the real-life proprietor of that very store featured in the episode. The store is called Suit Man in Mount Vernon, NY and Robinson himself stumbled upon Lindner and later decided to include him in The Chair Company. Advertisement Advertisement

11 The Garbage Fight was Improvised According to Joseph Tudisco, the actor who plays tough guy Mike Santini in The Chair Company, the garbage fight between Ron and Mike in Episode Two was not originally in the script, but improvised on the day of.

10 Wazey Waynes Made Things Tough to Film Tudisco also said that the the most difficult scene he had to film was the scene where he and Robinson are in Mikes car listening to Mikes favorite show Wazey Waynes. Tudisco said, Absolutely the funniest time Tim and I had was in the car listening to it and trying to get through it  we just kept laughing. Advertisement

9 Edisons Grisly Invention Thomas Edison invented the electric chair. Advertisement

8 Ron Trosper Looks Like a Sad Corporate Professional According to The Chair Company costume designer Nicky Smith, Ron Trospers look is that of a traditionalist corporate professional. She made a point to downplay the things that make Tim (Robinson) look cool and up-playing the things that kind of make him look sad. Advertisement

7 Thats My Chair! In 1978, Archie Bunkers chair from All in the Family was inducted into the Smithsonian.

6 Ein Groer Stuhl (One Big Chair) According to Guinness World Records, the worlds largest chair is in Austria and it measures over 98 feet tall. Advertisement

5 New York for Ohio While The Chair Company takes place in Ohio, it was filmed in New York. Advertisement

4 ggestol (Egg Chair) The egg-shaped chairs from Men in Black were designed by Danish designer Henrik Thor-Larsen. They were from 1968 and called the Ovalia Egg Chair. Advertisement

3 Its Not Planned When Vulture asked Robinson about the format of The Chair Company, Robinson replied None of this is thought out. Its not planned. Its not on purpose.

2 Ron vs. Craig When Vulture asked Robinson to compare Ron Trosper to his Friendship character Craig Waterman, Robinson said I actually dont think Ron is as tough of a hang as Craig Waterman is. I think Ron is a prideful man, and like a lot of characters that Zach and I have worked on, doesnt like to be embarrassed. Advertisement Advertisement
VIEREMA, Finland, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Ponsse is a globally leading forest machine manufacturer and a pioneer in the development of responsible logging solutions. The company's PONSSE Manager system collects data produced by forest machines and visualise it as user-friendly reports. Available as the paid PONSSE Manager Pro and the free PONSSE Manager Standard service package, the system brings improved transparency and control to the work of forest machine owners, operators and office workers. Ponsse Manager Map Tools works seamlessly with the forwarders of all manufacturers. While a Ponsse harvester is required to provide data, any forwarder - including subcontractor forwarder - can be connected to the system.

"We're constantly developing digital solutions for our customers' needs. Accordingly, we developed the new features, Emissions Report and Map Tools, in cooperation with our network. We're constantly developing the PONSSE Manager Pro package to help forest machine owners, operators and office workers better plan and monitor their activities, making their daily work easier and more productive," says Petteri Tuomisto, Sales Manager of Digital Services.

Map Tools paint a fuller picture of logging sites

The Map Tools are a new core feature of the PONSSE Manager Pro service package. They can show both machine routes and harvester production rates by assortment on a map. This allows forwarder operators to easily check how many stems are waiting for transport in the forest as well as what is already in storage.

"In the forest, harvester operators may encounter places that they must mark for forwarders, including obstacles, soft ground and other important features. The Map Tools function allows the operator to mark these on a map as points of interest, POI," says Tuomisto.

"Snowfall may cover logs even between shifts, making it difficult to identify the tree species and locate stems. Production monitoring helps forwarder operators determine the right assortments and quantities quickly, which keeps their work smooth, effective and on schedule."

Emission reporting helps meet environmental requirements

As the first forest machine manufacturer in the world, Ponsse presents the Emissions Report function included in the Manager Pro service package calculates and shows the atmospheric CO emissions of harvesters and forwarders on the machine, site and company level for a given period.

"The monitoring of site-specific emissions helps reduce fuel consumption, which effectively supports the meeting of both environmental requirements and business goals. Emission reporting also helps to identify which machines are best suited for different logging sites. The reports provide different perspectives to emissions: from individual machines to the company level by working method or period," says Tuomisto.

Sign up now for PONSSE Manager Pro and take advantage of a free three-month trial at https://manager2.ponsse.com/

Further information

Petteri Tuomisto

Ponsse Plc, Sales Manager, Digital Solutions

[email protected], tel. +358 40 528 9835

This information was brought to you by Cision http://news.cision.com

https://news.cision.com/ponsse-oyj/r/ponsse-s-new-digital-service-revolutionises-the-monitoring-of-logging-emissions,c4269358

The following files are available for download:

https://news.cision.com/ponsse-oyj/i/ponsse-manager-pro-en,c3488793 Ponsse Manager Pro EN

SOURCE Ponsse Oyj
A Pima County Sheriffs deputy was arrested on suspicion of aggravated drunken driving and criminal damage Monday night after crashing into a Tucson Police Department vehicle with his wife and child in the vehicle, court records show.

The crash happened about 7 p.m. when Sergio Reynaldo Lee Urias, 34, tried to make a U-turn while on his cellphone, according to an interim complaint filed in Pima County Justice Court.

During the maneuver, Urias struck a parked TPD Community Service vehicle, records show.

The TPD employee called 911 to report the collision, which happened outside her home, the complaint says. Neither the court nor police would disclose the location of the crash.

Deputies said Urias admitted to drinking a little bit before getting behind the wheel of a pickup truck with his wife and the 6-year-old.

He refused to take field sobriety tests or give a preliminary breath sample, records show.

Urias was released to pre-trial services at his initial court appearance Tuesday morning.

Urias, who has been with the department six years, was placed on paid administrative leave pending an internal investigation.
A former Republican lawmaker in Arizona pleaded guilty Monday to criminal charges for forging signatures on nominating petitions during his 2024 campaign.

Austin Smith, 30, represented an Arizona House district in the Phoenix suburbs for one term before dropping his reelection bid in April 2024 when questions arose about signatures on his nominating petitions. He also resigned at the time as a leader of the conservative group Turning Point Action.

The plea agreement calls for Smith to be sentenced to probation, pay a $5,000 fine and be barred from running for public office for five years. He pleaded guilty to attempted fraudulent schemes and practices, and illegal signing of election petitions.

In campaign literature, Smith voiced support for a Republican-backed review of the 2020 presidential election in Maricopa County that ultimately ended without producing proof to support President Donald Trumps false claims of a stolen election.

He had previously cast the allegations against him as a coordinated attack by Democrats that was silly on its face, but said he would drop out to avoid racking up legal bills.

Smith had been a senior director of Turning Point Action, the campaign arm of the youth organizing group Turning Point USA, which has become a major force in Arizona Republican politics.

The Associated Press left messages for Kurt Altman, Smiths attorney, and a Turning Point spokesperson.

Forging signatures, including those of people who have died, in order to get yourself on the ballot is illegal, and it erodes trust in our elections, said Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, a Democrat. My office will continue to hold accountable anyone who tries to cheat the system and mislead Arizona voters.
On the afternoon of November 18 (local time), Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, accompanied by his wife and a senior Vietnamese delegation, arrived at Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers, beginning his official visit to Algeria from November 18 to 20, at the invitation of Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb.

In an expression of exceptional courtesy, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb received Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse at the foot of the aircraft stairs.

He then presided over the official welcome ceremony for the Vietnamese Prime Minister, his spouse, and the high-level delegation.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse arrive at Houari Boumediene International Airport in Algiers. Photo by Nhat Bac.

When Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reached the position of honor, the national anthem of Vietnam was played.

Following this, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb invited the Vietnamese Prime Minister to review the guard of honor.

The two prime ministers introduced members of their respective delegations from Algeria and Vietnam who were present at the ceremony.

After a brief exchange, Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb escorted Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh to the motorcade area.

The Vietnamese leader is scheduled to hold official talks with his Algerian counterpart and meet with other top leaders of Algeria on November 19.

Despite the geographical distance, Vietnam and Algeria share a long-standing friendship, forged particularly during their respective struggles for national independence and sovereignty.

Algerian Prime Minister Sifi Ghrieb welcomes Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh and his spouse. Photo by Nhat Bac.

Photo by Nhat Bac.

This is the first visit by a Vietnamese Prime Minister to Algeria in 10 years, since 2015. Photo by Nhat Bac.
LONDON, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- BizClik, the global B2B media and events company, has announced that Procurement Magazine will now be published bi-weekly, doubling its editorial output to bring readers more timely insights, thought leadership, and industry analysis every month.

The shift reflects the magazine's rapid growth and the rising global demand for expert content on procurement transformation, digital strategy, and sustainable supply chains.

Procurement Magazine Bi-Weekly

Each Procurement Magazine issue will continue to feature exclusive interviews with senior executives, in-depth company spotlights, and BizClik's signature Top 10 rankings, now delivered twice a month.

November 2025: Two Editions, Twice the Insight

The Early November 2025

The first November Issue features Aatish Dedhia, Founder and CEO of Zycus, who explores how agentic AI is revolutionizing procurement, shifting the focus from intake to outcome. The issue also includes a spotlight on data-driven procurement transformation, supplier collaboration strategies, and the evolving balance between automation and human decision-making.

Late November 2025

The second November issue , headlined by ZIP, dives deeper into the future of procurement intelligence and how automation is enabling organisations to simplify complexity while maintaining control, compliance, and efficiency at scale.

"Each edition of Procurement Magazine captures how innovation and leadership are transforming the procurement landscape," said Aaron McMillan, Editor of Procurement Magazine.

"Our late November issue spotlights the people and organisations driving real change from AI-powered transformation to the evolution of supplier collaboration, showing that procurement's next chapter is already being written."

Meeting Global Demand With Expanded Coverage

With procurement functions undergoing rapid change, the shift to bi-weekly publishing enables the magazine to keep pace with the latest developments, including AI-driven automation, supplier collaboration, regulatory changes, risk management, and value creation.

Each edition will continue to deliver:

Exclusive interviews with C-suite and senior procurement leaders

In-depth company spotlights and transformation case studies

Expert analysis on procurement strategy, ESG, risk, and resilience

Technology insights on AI, automation, analytics, and digital platforms

BizClik's highly regarded Top 10 rankings

Coverage of future-focused trends shaping global supply chains

A Milestone in BizClik's Expansion

Procurement Magazine's move to a bi-weekly schedule marks another milestone in BizClik's continued expansion of its procurement and supply chain portfolio, which includes Supply Chain Digital, Manufacturing Digital, and a growing series of Global Webinar Programmes connecting senior executives worldwide.

The magazine's new publishing cadence ensures a more agile editorial approach, keeping pace with the rapidly changing procurement landscape and providing continuous value to decision-makers navigating the complexities of global supply chains.

A Double-Issue Launch Highlighting the Future of Procurement

Early November 2025 Edition

This issue features Aatish Dedhia, Founder and CEO of Zycus, who outlines how agentic AI is transforming procurement operating models by enabling data-led, outcome-focused decision-making. The edition explores:

The rise of outcome-centric procurement

Data-driven transformation roadmaps

Supplier collaboration technology

The evolving humanautomation balance

Late November 2025 Edition

The second issue , led by ZIP, investigates how automation is reshaping procurement intelligence at scale. Coverage includes:

The emergence of autonomous procurement workflows





Simplifying complexity while retaining organisational control





Achieving compliance and efficiency in high-volume environments

The growing strategic role of procurement technology partners

Strengthening BizClik's Procurement & Supply Chain Ecosystem

The bi-weekly transition aligns with BizClik's continued investment in its procurement and supply chain platforms, which include:

Procurement Magazine





Supply Chain Digital

BizClik's rapidly expanding Global Webinar Programme

International summits and awards across London, New York, Dubai , and Chicago

These platforms collectively reach a global audience of senior executives, giving Procurement Magazine's expanded schedule an even broader strategic impact.

Read the Latest Editions

Edition 45  Featuring Aatish Dedhia, Founder at Zycus

 Featuring Aatish Dedhia, Founder at Zycus Edition 46  Featuring Amanda Davies, Chief R&D, Procurement and Sustainability Officer at Mars

About Procurement Magazine

Procurement Magazine , part of BizClik's global digital publishing portfolio, is a leading voice in procurement and supply chain thought leadership. The magazine delivers exclusive insights, executive interviews, company reports, and strategic analysis to a global audience of senior professionals shaping the future of procurement.

About BizClik

BizClik is a global B2B media and events company producing sector-specific content across technology, sustainability, procurement, fintech, AI, and more. Through digital magazines, websites, newsletters, webinars, and award-winning events, BizClik connects enterprise leaders with executive audiences to drive strategic business engagement.

For more information, visit: www.bizclikmedia.com

Photo: https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2826087/BizClik_Media_Procurement_Magazine_Bi_Weekly.jpg

SOURCE BizClik Media
Market surveys show that in central districts like Hoan Kiem, Ba Dinh, and the old Dong Da area, land prices remain steep. Most houses - whether in alleys or facing the street - rarely fall below 100 million VND (about 4,000 USD) per square meter. Finding a property within that budget is extremely challenging.

However, according to Quan, a real estate agent, it's not impossible. Although rare, there are homes priced between 1 and 1.7 billion VND - usually ultra-compact units hidden deep within narrow alleys and burdened with various limitations.

Quan noted that only one or two of these homes come with legal land use certificates (red books). The rest are often decades-old buildings or too small to qualify for separate ownership documentation.

He is currently marketing a home in central Dong Da for just over 1 billion VND. Unsurprisingly, the property comes with drawbacks: it is only 6m in size, located 3040 meters from the main road, and the alley leading to it is dimly lit. The staircase is steep and narrow, making movement difficult.

To maximize space, the owner built five stories: a kitchen with loft storage on the ground floor, a living room on the second, a bedroom and bathroom on the third, another bedroom on the fourth, and a rooftop space on the fifth. It suits single individuals or young couples willing to trade comfort for central location.

In this price range, another listing near the Temple of Literature is on offer for around 1.68 billion VND (approx. 68,000 USD). Remarkably, it includes full legal documentation. Still, the home is just 6m with a frontage of only a little over 1 meter, spread across four floors plus a rooftop room.

The interior, however, is extremely limited. Windows cant be opened due to adjacent walls, and there's no indoor bathroom - the occupant must use a shared facility across the alley. One agent joked that living there feels like an exercise routine because you have to twist and duck just to move around.

That said, with its proximity to tourist areas, the property could serve well as a short-term rental for visitors wanting a local Old Quarter experience.

In areas like Van Mieu, where history and heritage elevate land value, real estate prices are even higher. Houses on main streets sell for 300450 million VND/m (12,00018,000 USD), depending on location and facade width. Homes in alleys accessible by car fetch 200270 million VND/m, while those in narrow alleys only reachable by motorbike go for around 140190 million VND/m.

In Tan Mai (Hoang Mai District), another 1-billion-VND home is on offer. Despite being deep in an alley, the house is relatively airy with windows and over 1 meter of frontage. The ground floor is used as a kitchen, and the upper levels can be arranged into sleeping quarters.

According to real estate agent Thao, this type of home suits single residents, university students, or parents buying for their children while they study in Hanoi. With its location not too far from the center, it also has potential for resale.

In this area, main street properties range from 260380 million VND/m. Those in alleys with car access cost 160220 million VND/m, while smaller alleys command 120160 million VND/m.

Clearly, it is still possible to own a home in central Hanoi on a 1-billion-VND budget. But the buyer must accept trade-offs: tiny floor space, steep staircases, poor lighting, deep alleys, and sometimes the lack of private restrooms.

Though relatively cheap, these homes dont sell easily. Many buyers, after viewing in person, decide to walk away due to discomfort or legal concerns.

Buyers are advised to proceed with caution. Quality of life can be a major issue given the limited space, awkward layouts, and frequent lack of essential facilities. Moreover, legal complications are common: some homes are too small to qualify for independent land titles, or were built without proper permits. These issues make resale risky and often difficult.

Duy Anh
Recognition Ceremony for Outstanding Ethnic Minority Students and Youth 2024.

Building on experience, advancing with purpose

The event is organized annually by the Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs (formerly the Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs), in coordination with the Ministry of Education and Training and the Ho Chi Minh Communist Youth Union (now under the Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front). It aims to honor exceptional students and youth from ethnic minority communities for their achievements in learning, personal growth, and contributions across various fields.

The event also serves as a platform for students and young people from different ethnic groups to meet, connect, and exchange experiences.

This year, the preparations for the 12th ceremony are being carried out with urgency, professionalism, and thorough coordination. Following its merger with the Ethnic Minority and Development Newspaper, VietNamNet has been appointed as the Standing Organ of the Organizing Committee for the 2025 ceremony.

Drawing on the success of past events, VietNamNet has proactively advised the Ministry's leadership on the issuance of implementation plans and official directives.

Several coordination meetings have been held to ensure the 2025 ceremony is respectful, efficient, and educational. (Photo: Tuan Ninh)

In October 2025, Minister Dao Ngoc Dung signed a series of key decisions, including:

 Decision No. 783/QD-BDTTG on the establishment of the Steering Committee

 Decision No. 782/QD-BDTTG on the establishment of the Organizing Committee

 Decision No. 784/QD-BDTTG outlining the implementation plan for the ceremony

Notably, Minister Dao Ngoc Dung, a member of the Party Central Committee, will serve as Head of the Steering Committee for this years ceremony.

Coordinated planning for impactful results

Outstanding students and youth from ethnic minorities will participate in a range of exciting activities. (Award recipients in 2023. Photo by Tuan Ninh)

To concretize the plan, Deputy Minister Y Thong - Permanent Deputy Head of the Steering Committee and Head of the Organizing Committee - signed Decision No. 18/QD-BTCLTD, assigning specific responsibilities to each member. The Editor-in-Chief of VietNamNet, who is also the Permanent Deputy Head of the Organizing Committee, has been tasked with establishing supporting subcommittees for the event.

Since early November, the Organizing Committee has held review and planning meetings to finalize the event's core components. In addition to the main recognition ceremony, several activities will be held on the sidelines, including:

 A tribute at the Mausoleum of President Ho Chi Minh

 A visit to the Presidential Palace Historical Site

 Signing the Golden Book at the Temple of Literature

 A meeting with Party and State leaders

The 2025 edition will also feature a special program titled Connection  Convergence  Inspiration dedicated to the honored ethnic minority youth.

A critical factor in the success of the event is the selection process for award recipients. After consulting with various government agencies, the Organizing Committee advised the Steering Committee to issue formal regulations governing the selection of outstanding students and youth from ethnic minorities.

Detail-driven preparation with strong collaboration

Preparations for logistics, protocol, and ceremony content are underway. (2022 Ceremony. Photo by Tuan Ninh)

Leaders of the Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs (now Ministry of Ethnic and Religious Affairs) meet with outstanding ethnic youth in 2024. (Photo: Tuan Ninh)

The event's logistical and ceremonial preparations - including technical scripts and protocols - are progressing smoothly. This years organizing efforts have been bolstered by the cooperation of key agencies:

 The Ministry of Education and Training is responsible for nominating and submitting qualified candidates from universities and ethnic boarding schools, based on established criteria.

 The Central Committee of the Vietnam Fatherland Front oversees the selection of outstanding ethnic minority youth.

Both organizations are working closely with VietNamNet to finalize the event scenario and prepare relevant reports and documentation.

To date, core tasks are being completed on schedule.

Thanks to proactive preparation, detailed planning, and effective coordination between the Ministry of Education and Training, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, and other stakeholders, the 2025 Recognition Ceremony is expected to be a resounding success - promoting the values of learning, resilience, and pride among Vietnams ethnic minority youth.

Tuan Ninh
On the afternoon of November 19, Tay Khanh Son commune faced particularly severe flooding. Water levels surged over the Ko Roa spillway on Provincial Road 9, inundating nearby neighborhoods and endangering residents with strong, fast-moving currents.

In some areas, the force of the water has cut off access entirely, placing peoples lives at risk.

Police officers navigate dangerous floodwaters in Tay Khanh Son to rescue residents. Photo: MD

Flooding in Khanh Hoa province has taken a critical turn, especially in Tay Khanh Son, Ninh Hoa, and Hoa Tri communes. Torrents of murky floodwaters have surged into residential areas, triggering landslides and isolating multiple households.

According to local police, 20 residents were evacuated to safety on the evening of November 18. The next morning, authorities evacuated an additional five people. One local police officers house is under immediate threat of a landslide, prompting the deployment of a dedicated team to assist the family.

In Nam Ninh Hoa commune, Rescue Team No. 2 from Fire and Rescue Police Division KV5 successfully evacuated five residents - including a person with disabilities and four elderly individuals - from a flooded and isolated home in My Loi hamlet.

Rescue team evacuates residents trapped by floodwaters. Photo: MD

PC07 officers from Khanh Hoa provincial police force wade through torrents to rescue 10 people trapped in flood-isolated areas. Photo: HD
On November 19, during this extraordinary session, the provincial delegates voted to relieve Le Van Luong from his role as Chairman of the People's Committee.

Le Van Luong has been appointed by the Party Secretariat to serve as Deputy Secretary of the Dien Bien Provincial Party Committee.

Ha Quang Trung, previously Deputy Secretary of Lai Chaus Party Committee, was elected by the provincial Peoples Council to assume the chairmanship.

Speaking upon his appointment, Ha Quang Trung affirmed his commitment to dedicating himself wholeheartedly to his new responsibilities, working tirelessly and in unity with others for the overall development of the province.

Born in 1976 in Hung Yen province, Ha Quang Trung holds a university degree in Finance and Credit, and a masters degree in Business and Management.

He previously served as Director of the Department of Finance of Dien Bien province, Secretary of the Dien Bien Phu City Party Committee, Chairman of the City People's Council, and Deputy Head of the Organization Committee of the Dien Bien Provincial Party Committee. In October 2025, he was appointed Deputy Secretary of the Dien Bien Provincial Party Committee.

Two days prior, on November 17, the Lai Chau Provincial Party Committee convened a conference to announce the Party Secretariats decision to reassign and appoint new personnel for the 20252030 term. Accordingly, the Secretariat decided to remove Ha Quang Trung from his roles in Dien Bien - member of the Party Executive Committee, member of the Standing Committee, and Deputy Secretary of the Dien Bien Party Committee.

He was then assigned to join the Party Executive Committee, Standing Committee, and take on the role of Deputy Secretary of the Lai Chau Provincial Party Committee for the 20252030 term.

Duc Hoang
The latest draft PMs Decision on the national technical regulation on exhaust emissions for road-going automobiles is receiving much public attention.

According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment (MAE), the agency primarily responsible for drafting, the roadmap aims to control and minimize air pollution caused by vehicle emissions, contributing to protecting public health and improving the quality of the living environment.

This also serves as a legal basis to gradually eliminate vehicles that do not meet the emission standards, promoting the transition to clean, environmentally friendly vehicles, in line with Vietnam's international commitments to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and develop sustainable urban transport.

The principle is that older cars will apply lower emission standards, while newer cars will apply higher emission standards.

VietNamNet has found that a series of older car models, still common on the market, will be directly affected.

The draft stipulates that car models manufactured before 1999, when used in traffic, will apply Emission Standard Level 1 (equivalent to Euro 1 standard) from the effective date of the Decision.

Thus, older models like the 1996 Toyota Corolla, Daewoo Cielo, Kia Pride, Ford Laser, or Mitsubishi Lancer are all in the group that may be directly affected when the stricter emission standard roadmap is applied.

These were once popular models, with current prices ranging only from VND30 million to VND190 million, suitable for middle-income earners or for use as secondary vehicles. However, most of these cars were manufactured before 2000, only meeting Level 1 or Level 2 (equivalent to Euro 12), making it difficult to pass the new inspection requirements.

Notably, even premium models like the 1990 Mercedes-Benz W124, despite having the high collector's value of hundreds of millions of VND, will be also impacted.

At the next level, the draft specifies that autos manufactured in 1999  2016 will apply Emission Standard Level 2 (equivalent to Euro 2 standard) from the effective date of the Decision.

In this group, popular models like Toyota Innova, Fortuner, Vios, and Mazda 3 have relatively high resale prices, ranging from over VND200 million to VND400 million, and are still favored by many users for their durability and ease of repair.

However, if they do not meet the new emission standards, inspection, circulation, and even buying and selling of these cars may face difficulties. Small car models like Kia Morning, Hyundai Grand i10, and Ford Focus, which were chosen for their low running costs, are also at risk of being "denied registration inspection" if they fail to meet the standard after 2026.

At the third level, the draft stipulates that automobiles manufactured in 2017-2021 will apply Emission Standard Level 3 (equivalent to Euro 3 standard) from January 1, 2026; specifically for Hanoi and HCMC, Level 4 (equivalent to Euro 4 standard) will apply from January 1, 2027.

These are models that account for a large proportion of the used car market, including VinFast Fadil, Hyundai Accent, Honda City, Mitsubishi Xpander, Mazda CX-5, Ford Ranger, and Toyota Corolla Cross. The resale price of these cars currently ranges from about VND300 million to nearly VND700 million, depending on the year and version.

Automobiles manufactured from 2022 will apply Level 4 from January 1, 2026; Level 5 (equivalent to Euro 5 standard) from January 1, 2032; specifically for Hanoi and HCMC, Level 5 will apply from January 1, 2028.

Models manufactured from 2022 onwards are considered the latest generation, which already meets Emission Standard Level 4. According to the roadmap, this group of cars will have to meet Level 5 in Hanoi and HCMC from 2028, and nationwide from 2032.

Popular 2022 models like Toyota Vios, Hyundai Creta, Toyota Corolla Cross, and Mazda CX-5 are all within the official warranty period. The current listed price ranges from about VND458 million to over VND900 million, depending on the model, version, and equipment. For "lightly used" cars, the price may be slightly lower than the official on-road price.

From 2029, all cars in Hanoi, HCMC to apply level 2 or higher

At the final level, the draft proposes that from January 1, 2029, all automobiles participating in traffic in Hanoi and HCMC must meet Level 2 or higher. This implementation time is one year earlier than the proposal made in early August this year.

Notably, types of automobiles manufactured and assembled under the Technical Safety and Environmental Protection Certificate issued before January 1, 2022, until the time they expire, will apply the same emission level as cars manufactured in 2017-2021 (Level 3).

Hoang Hiep
The program features performances by the Vienna Chamber Orchestra and La Philharmonica - an ensemble of six distinguished female musicians from the prestigious Vienna Philharmonic.

This high-profile cultural event is one of the capital's standout international music experiences of the year, bringing to Vietnamese audiences the elegance and brilliance of Viennas classical music tradition.

The first evening opens with La Philharmonica, an all-female chamber group formed by elite artists from the Vienna Philharmonic. Their performance blends the finesse of strings and woodwinds in a unique repertoire, including two original pieces composed especially for the ensemble by Tristan Schulze and Georg Breinschmid.

Audiences will enjoy a vibrant mix of classical and contemporary works from composers such as Pauline Viardot, John Williams, Johann Strauss II, Constanze Geiger, Mathilde Kralik, and Josefine Weinlich - ranging from romantic opera melodies and cinematic scores to the exuberant rhythms of Viennas signature dances.

The second evening, titled Chamber Night by the Vienna Chamber Orchestra, immerses audiences in the majestic atmosphere of 19th-century Vienna.

The program opens with iconic waltzes and polkas by the Strauss family: Johann Strauss II, Eduard Strauss, and Josef Strauss. Highlights include Fledermaus Overture, Mit Extrapost, Wiener Blut, Pizzicato Polka, Tales from the Vienna Woods, and Thunder and Lightning Polka. These timeless compositions defined the grandeur of Viennese ballroom culture - elegant, sparkling, and full of life.

After intermission, the audience will journey into the rich musical world of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart with his Symphony No. 40 in G Minor, K. 550 - a masterwork known for its tight structure, lyrical sophistication, and profound emotional depth.

The final evening, Spirit of Vienna, presents a majestic tribute to the classical masters - Mozart, Haydn, and Beethoven - whose works define Viennas cultural soul.

The concert begins with two of Mozarts most celebrated concertos: Violin Concerto No. 4 in D Major, K. 218 and Clarinet Concerto in A Major, K. 622, showcasing the refined elegance of the Viennese Classical period.

Next is Joseph Haydns Sinfonia Concertante in B-flat Major, Hob. I:105, an uplifting, spirited piece that radiates energy and joy.

Closing the concert series is Ludwig van Beethovens Symphony No. 7 in A Major, Op. 92, famously described by Richard Wagner as the apotheosis of the dance. Its bold rhythms and fiery spirit offer a powerful, rousing finale - a vibrant celebration of Viennas enduring musical legacy.

Tinh Le
Speaking at the ceremony, Mikazuki Group Chairman Yoshimune Odaka said the resort has welcomed 2.2 million guests since it opened in June 2022, achieving an average occupancy rate of more than 70% across its 342 rooms. He said this performance provides a strong basis for continued investment.

The second phase is designed as a multi-functional complex, featuring a 15-storey hotel tower rising 63m and 14 villas with a dedicated reception area. Once completed, the expansion will bring total capacity to 447 rooms. The new phase represents an investment of roughly 3 billion JPY (19.3 million USD), aimed at boosting Da Nangs tourism appeal and upgrading its hospitality services.

Vice Chairwoman of the Da Nang Peoples Committee Nguyen Thi Anh Thi said Mikazuki Japanese Resorts & Spa is currently the largest Japanese-invested tourism and services project in the city, with total committed capital to date of about 3.9 trillion VND (147.8 million USD).

The resort now employs nearly 600 workers and attracts hundreds of thousands of visitors annually, contributing significantly to the citys tourism growth and socio-economic development, she noted.

Japanese Consul General in Da Nang Mori Takero said Mikazuki is Japans largest tourism FDI project in the city and has become a symbol of cultural exchange. He highlighted the groups contributions to the community and affirmed continued support from the Consulate General.

The implementation of the second phase is expected to expand the resorts service capacity and enhance Da Nangs premium tourism offerings, reinforcing the citys position as a high-quality services hub in Vietnam and the wider regon.

So far, Da Nang has established cooperative relations with more than 22 Japanese prefectures and cities. It has signed memoranda of understanding to establish formal friendship with six cities, including Kawasaki, Sakai, Yokohama, Kisarazu, Nagasaki, and Kinokawa, with Yokohama and Kawasaki both located in Kanagawa prefecture.

Japan remains the citys largest source of registered investment, with over 1.14 billion USD across 261 projects, most of which are performing well and contributing to socio-economic development through technology transfer, workforce training and product diversification./.VNA
Experts share their insights at a seminar on cybercrimes (Photo: BTC)

A number of experts spoke about the issue at the recent Cyber Peace event in Hanoi. This activity followed the Hanoi Convention 2025 and the "Not Alone" campaign, aiming to build a safe and humane digital environment for the younger generation.

Lieutenant Colonel and Luu Xuan Van, PhD, and lecturer at the Faculty of Cybersecurity and High-tech Crime Prevention, People's Security Academy, said online criminals now use numerous sophisticated methods to lure and threaten students, causing psychological, financial and health damage.

Their tactics focus on four main methods. First, criminals may impersonate police officers or government agencies to threaten that students are involved in legal procedures. They direct victims to follow a pre-set script, leading them into transferring money or engaging in illegal activities.

In addition, cybercriminals can create fake websites or forums to collect personal data, then use this information to build scam scenarios targeting victims relatives or friends.

They may also exploit security vulnerabilities to obtain sensitive or important information about students in order to intimidate and attack them.

Furthermore, through social media, criminals can create misleading information to manipulate public opinion, leading students to participate in unlawful activities.

Lieutenant Colonel Luu Xuan Van noted that although these tactics are not new and have been widely warned about, many students with strong academic abilities and good understanding, even those who are highly talented and intelligent, still fall for scams.

He explained that students access technology from a very young age and rely heavily on online services, yet their digital skills remain limited and their legal knowledge insufficient. This makes them vulnerable to manipulation.

Many capable and curious students actively seek information online, but such information is often mixed between truth and falsehood. Amid this maze, they may become overly confident, ignore warnings, and easily become victims.

Prof. Le Anh Vinh, Director of the Vietnam Institute of Educational Sciences, shared a similar view. He cited a study by the Institute comparing two groups of students - one with very strong IT skills and another with average skills. Surprisingly, the IT-proficient group demonstrated lower digital safety skills.

Having knowledge or strong technology skills does not mean students possess the necessary ability to cope with online scam risks, even though these scenarios are very common, Vinh said.

To help children protect themselves, Vinh stressed that students must be educated early about digital skills to recognize deceptive behaviors and risks, while improving awareness and critical thinking, always questioning unusual situations to stay prepared.

Le Anh Lan, an education expert at UNICEF Vietnam, said that to protect children online, the most important factor is to enhance their ability to identify risks rather than relying solely on restrictions or warnings.

Lan added that UNICEF advocates equipping children with digital skills as early as possible, ideally from preschool.

When we made this recommendation, many parents, even educators, showed their objection. Many questioned why preschool children should be exposed so early to the digital environment. But whether we want it or not, children from preschool age are already immersed in the digital world, she said. So the issue is not at what age they should be exposed, but rather how adults prepare the right skills and environment to help them navigate and take control in the digital world.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Tien Cuong from A05, Ministry of Public Security, said that from mid-2024 to August 2025, about 50 online scam and coercion cases were recorded.

Among them, online kidnapping is a new and dangerous tactic that often targets students. Of the 50 victims, 90 percent were female and all were between 18 and 22 years old, mostly students living away from home.

Nguyen Phuong Linh, Director of the Institute for Studies of Society, Economy and Environment, noted that risks related to online kidnapping and scams are now very common, and the tricks and methods used by cybercriminals are highly unpredictable and sophisticated.

Every day, cybercriminals study user psychology and create new scenarios. Without vigilance, even adults who have read many online warnings can easily fall into traps. This makes it very difficult for a child to recognize that these messages of coercion or manipulation are wrong, Linh said.

She added that while social media is meant to connect people, it can now disconnect children from the real world. Offenders exploit loneliness and the desire for validation to manipulate emotions, creating unsafe connections.

Therefore, Linh recommended that parents and schools must create opportunities for children to connect, share, and have someone who truly listens to them.

Thuy Nga
On the afternoon of November 18, during the 7th session of the 10th Dong Nai Provincial Peoples Council, the council approved the dismissal of Vo Tan Duc from the position of Chairman of the provincial Peoples Committee.

Immediately afterward, the council elected Nguyen Van Ut - then Deputy Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee - to serve as the new Chairman of the Peoples Committee. The vote was unanimous, with 100% in favor.

Dong Nai provincial leaders present flowers to congratulate Nguyen Van Ut on his appointment. Photo: Hoang Anh

Earlier that same afternoon, the Dong Nai Provincial Party Committee held a conference to announce the Politburos decision to reassign and appoint Ut to the Provincial Party Committee, its Standing Committee, and the position of Deputy Secretary for the 20252030 term.

Speaking at the conference, Nguyen Van Ut expressed his deep gratitude for the trust placed in him by the Politburo and Secretariat. He pledged to closely collaborate with the Provincial Party Committee, Standing Committee, and local departments to implement the Partys resolutions.

He also committed to an open-minded and consultative leadership style, vowing to listen to the opinions of local leaders, businesses, and citizens to help Dong Nai become a dynamic growth engine for the Southeast region.

Nguyen Van Ut, 56, hails from Tay Ninh Province. He holds a bachelors degree in economics and a masters degree in the same field.

He previously held several leadership roles, including Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Peoples Committee of Duc Hoa District, Party Secretary of Duc Hoa District, and both Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Peoples Committee of Long An Province.

After the merger of Tay Ninh and Long An Provinces, Ut was appointed Chairman of the newly restructured Tay Ninh Province. He served in that role until being reassigned to Dong Nai.

Hoang Anh
Early on the morning of November 19, Da Nangs Military Command confirmed it had mobilized troops overnight to respond to a riverbank collapse in An Luong village (Duy Nghia commune).

Hours earlier, heavy upstream rainfall and surging floodwaters had triggered serious landslides along the riverbank, placing hundreds of homes in immediate danger.

Upon receiving the emergency alert, Colonel Tran Huu Ich, Commander of the Da Nang Military Command, swiftly issued deployment orders. Over 300 officers and soldiers were mobilized, with an additional 200 troops from Division 315 provided by Military Region 5.

The An Luong riverbank severely eroded during the night. Photo: A.C

In less than an hour, more than 500 soldiers had reached the site and immediately began reinforcing the most vulnerable areas. At the time, fast-moving floodwaters were relentlessly undercutting the embankments foundation, threatening to collapse entire sections.

According to Da Nangs Military Command, the forces divided into smaller teams to tackle weak points along the river. Using sandbags and steel cages, they worked tirelessly through the night in hazardous conditions. Soldiers took no real breaks, relying on water and bread as they battled the storm.

Emergency forces rush to reinforce the embankment. Photo: A.C

Soldiers use sandbags to shore up the weakened riverbank. Photo: A.C

Racing against time to deliver sandbags. Photo: A.C

By 8:00 a.m. on November 19, the most critical sections had been temporarily stabilized. However, troops remained on site to monitor and further fortify areas at high risk of collapse.

The Da Nang Military Command is currently coordinating with local authorities and technical agencies to assess long-term risks and propose both engineering and non-structural solutions to protect An Luong from future extreme weather events.

Soldiers and local residents join forces to defend the community from the rivers edge. Photo: A.C

Ngo Van Hai, head of An Luong village, expressed heartfelt gratitude: Even in the dead of night, the citys military and regional forces marched in to support us and strengthen the embankment. The people of An Luong are deeply thankful.

Troops remain at the scene, continuing inspection and reinforcement. Photo: T.V

Just weeks earlier, in late October, over 500 meters of the An Luong embankment had been destroyed during a severe flood, prompting continuous emergency reinforcement efforts.

On November 12, Da Nang authorities officially declared a state of emergency after the riverbank was once again ravaged - posing a direct threat to more than 500 families living along the Thu Bon River.

Ha Nam
JERUSALEM, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Rafa Laboratories, a global leader in Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear hazards medical countermeasures and Biodefense, today announced it has been awarded with a landmark development contract by the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), part of Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), for the advanced development of a novel intramuscular (IM) formulation of tranexamic acid (TXA)a potentially life-saving therapy for uncontrolled bleeding. The contract is valued at up to $186 million, including all option periods.

This pivotal collaboration, which represents Rafa's second major contract with BARDA, addresses an urgent global need: a rapidly deployable, easy-to-administer treatment for hemorrhage in the critical prehospital setting.

Addressing the Critical Window to Save Lives

Uncontrolled bleeding is the leading cause of preventable death following trauma, whether caused by accidents, mass-casualty events or in the battlefield. Caregivers need a tool which can be easily administered to a large number of casualties in a short period of time. TXA is an antifibrinolytic agent commonly used off label around the world to treat trauma bleeding in the pre-hospital and hospital space.

Landmark clinical studies performed in tens of thousands of individuals have demonstrated that TXA can significantly reduce mortality rates if administered quickly enough following trauma hemorrhagic injury.

"The clock starts ticking the moment a patient sustains a hemorrhagic injury, and the few minutes before reaching a hospital are the most critical ones," said Roy Shay, Vice President of Biodefense at Rafa Laboratories. "Currently, TXA is typically administered intravenously (IV), which is challenging, time-consuming and requires training. The need for trained individuals even greater in high-stress, or mass-casualty situations. Developing a new intramuscular TXA injection is a potential game-changer as it simplifies the administration process, especially if administered with an autoinjector.

As planned under the potential scope of this project, Rafa shall also develop a TXA autoinjector which will enable professional as well as nonprofessional care givers to deliver this essential treatment instantlydramatically increasing survival chances worldwide."

"The IM route offers a fast, reliable, and user-friendly alternative for the existing IV administration, which can be extremely difficult in patients experiencing severe shock".

BARDA and Rafa are Collaborating on a Comprehensive Development Approach

Rafa Laboratoriesis adopting a robust and integrated product development approach, which is planned to include formulation development, manufacturing scale-up, pre/clinical trials and a streamlined regulatory pathway designed to secure U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval.

"Over the past four decades, Rafa has built a reputation for developing highly dependable medical countermeasures targeting acute, life-threatening conditions, mainly CBRN and pain management." said Iddo Leshem, Chief Executive Officer of Rafa Laboratories. "The IM TXA development contract marks a strategic expansion of Rafa's presence in acute trauma care. We are deeply committed to partnering with BARDA to accelerate the delivery of this urgently needed, life-saving solution to hundreds of thousands of patients across the globe".

About Rafa Laboratories

Founded in 1937 and headquartered in Jerusalem, Israel, Rafa Laboratories is a global leader in biodefense and emergency medical solutions. For more than 40 years, Rafa has supplied medical countermeasure autoinjectors to the U.S. federal government, NATO allies, military forces, and civilian stockpiles worldwide, including its Midazolam 10 mg autoinjector (US-FDA approved under NDA #216359 since 2022) and Atropine autoinjector (US-FDA approved under NDA #212319 for 2 mg since 2018 and EUA # for 0.5 & 1 mg since 2017). The company's expertise spans the entire value chain  from a robust R&D pipeline addressing emerging threats, to cGMP-compliant manufacturing and successful regulatory approvals from the U.S. FDA and European health authorities.

Rafa's controlling shareholder, FIMI Opportunity Funds, is Israel's leading private equity fund. With over 25 years of experience, FIMI manages assets of $7 billion and has completed nearly 100 investments globally.

This project has been supported in whole or in part with federal funds from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Administration for Strategic Preparedness and Response; Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), under contract number 75A50125C00018.

Media Contact:

Roy Shay

VP, Biodefense

Rafa Laboratories

[email protected]

SOURCE Rafa
Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, his spouse and a high-ranking Vietnamese delegation on November 19 paid tribute at the Memorial of the Martyr, visited the national museum of the army, and attended the launch of the Arabic edition of the book Dien Bien Phu by the late legendary General Vo Nguyen Giap of Vietnam, as part of his official visit to Algeria.



The memorial, known in Arabic as Maqam Echahid, is a national landmark inaugurated in 1982 to mark the 20th anniversary of Algerias independence (19621982) and honour those who sacrificed their lives for the nations freedom.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh pays tribute at the Memorial of the Martyr in Algeria on November 19. (Photo: VNA)

The national museum preserves around 8,000 artefacts and documents illustrating Algerias military history from prehistoric times to the modern era. Of special note is the display listing the countries that first recognised the revolutionary government of Algeria, including Vietnam. The museum also features numerous exhibits relating to Vietnam, particularly its struggle for national liberation and the two countries relationship.



Touring the site, PM Chinh highlighted the many similarities between Vietnam and Algeria despite their geographical distance, especially their struggles for independence. He said that the two countries share a traditional friendship and solidarity, and called on both sides to build on this spirit to advance national development in the new era.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh at the National Museum of the Moudjahid on November 19. (Photo: VNA)

At the museum, the Vietnamese leader also attended the launch of the Arabic translation of Dien Bien Phu. The book was originally authored by General Vo Nguyen Giap, who led the Dien Bien Phu Campaign on May 7, 1954, which went down in history as a glorious milestone of the entire Vietnamese Party, army, and people in the resistance war against the French colonialists.



The book has been republished several times, with the general revising and refining it on each occasion. The latest Vietnamese edition came out in 2024, and the newly released Arabic version includes updated content, with additional articles and historical materials related to the Dien Bien Phu Campaign, collected by the authors son, Vo Hong Nam.



The publication and circulation of the Arabic edition in Algeria reflect the deep regard and warm ties between the two peoples, rooted in their shared struggles for independence and national sovereignty./. VNA
This marks a significant milestone as CT UAV becomes the first Vietnamese UAV manufacturer to aim for compliance with the rigorous requirements of the global aerospace industry. The standardization process is expected to take between six and twelve months, laying the groundwork for a national benchmark in UAV production.

CT UAV, a subsidiary of CT Group, is collaborating with SGS (Societe Generale de Surveillance) to implement AS9100D and ISO 9001 standards across its entire operational framework. This includes its network of factories, R&D centers, and production processes.

AS9100D is an aerospace quality management system standard developed by the International Aerospace Quality Group (IAQG). It is globally recognized and requires strict risk management, traceability of materials, supply chain oversight, and high-level product safety protocols.

ISO 9001, on the other hand, is a foundational international quality management standard applicable to all business types. It emphasizes process standardization, transparency, efficiency, and continuous improvement across research, design, and production.

Nguyen Thi Nam Tran, Regional Director of Business Assurance Solutions at SGS Indonesia & Vietnam, noted that AS9100D is one of the most stringent standards in existence, demanding global-level integration in both management and personnel systems.

While ISO 9001 sets the stage for quality management, AS9100D builds upon it with more robust requirements specifically for aerospace-grade production. Certification by SGS - the worlds most reputable auditing and certifying body - enhances CT UAVs credibility and integrates it into international aerospace supply chains.

SGS experts predict that CT UAV may become the first Vietnamese UAV enterprise to receive AS9100D certification across its entire production ecosystem. Once complete, this model could serve as a reference for other domestic firms pursuing international aerospace quality standards.

CT UAV is headquartered at 20 Truong Dinh, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, and operates five UAV factories within the CT Groups High-Tech R&D Center in Thuan An. To meet the rising global demand, the company is also preparing to invest in a new UAV technology complex at the ASEAN Super Head Quarter in Hung Thuan Commune, Tay Ninh Province.

According to SGS Vietnam experts, CT UAV must fulfill extensive technical and managerial requirements to meet AS9100D standards. These include end-to-end risk management throughout the product lifecycle, change control, material traceability, flight safety assurance, and first article inspection. ISO 9001 serves as a foundation to streamline these processes and ensures overall system transparency, efficiency, and continuous improvement.

CT UAV is also aiming to integrate AS9100D, ISO 9001, and ESG (Environmental, Social, Governance) practices into a green, energy-efficient, and sustainable production model. The anticipated benefits include up to 25% productivity gains, over 30% reduction in defects, lower operating costs, and enhanced safety.

These international certifications are vital for accessing global markets, including the U.S., Europe, and Japan.

With guidance and certification from SGS, CT UAVs achievement of AS9100D and ISO 9001 marks a turning point for Vietnams UAV industry - establishing a globally recognized benchmark for aerospace-grade production standards.

SGS, headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, is the worlds leading inspection, verification, testing, and certification company. Operating in over 140 countries with more than 98,000 employees, SGS is a trusted partner of leading corporations in aerospace, energy, and advanced technology sectors.

Du Lam
A cafe in Hanh Thong Ward, Ho Chi Minh City, has become a magnet for young locals thanks to its extraordinary in-house jellyfish aquarium featuring more than 1,000 jellyfish across nine different species.

According to the cafe owner, the jellyfish on display vary widely in shape and size, including rare and high-value species imported from Singapore. All of them are housed in specially designed glass tanks, maintained under strict environmental conditions to ensure their health and visibility.

The water in the tanks is kept at a consistent 1015C, while the ambient room temperature is maintained at 2022C. Each species is supported by a custom lighting system, tailored to enhance their bioluminescent beauty and ensure optimal conditions.

This immersive jellyfish display has turned the cafe into a social media sensation, attracting countless visitors who come not only for the drinks but also for the soothing, otherworldly experience of watching jellyfish drift in their illuminated enclosures.

Phuoc Sang
Entire neighborhoods were submerged, with water invading homes, schools, markets, and major roads.

Tran Thi Loan and her husband, longtime residents of Cay Gao street, waded through knee-deep water to buy essential supplies. She said they had learned to mentally prepare each time heavy rain lingered. Just three days earlier, their home flooded with over one meter of water. They had raised all their furniture in time, only to face another flash flood last night that caught them off guard.

We stayed up all night to watch the water levels. We're exhausted, she said, adding that household appliances like their washing machine and furniture were damp or damaged.

Floodwaters covered major roads such as Vo Nguyen Giap and 23 Thang 10, leaving them impassable. Businesses were shuttered, and shop owners scrambled to lift their goods above water. In the rain, residents struggled to cross submerged streets.

As water kept rising, many couldnt react in time. Some households saw their belongings swept away in the current. Hao, 34, from Phu Vinh neighborhood, said she and her husband were awake all night, monitoring the situation.

I just hope the rain stops soon so we can clean up and get our lives back together, she said.

In Phu Trung neighborhood, water reached half a meter inside the home of Tran Thanh Tuan. He evacuated his entire family - including four children - using a small boat.

Normally floods dont rise this quickly. Last night the water was much higher than a few days ago, he said.

Sitting on a chair in her flooded workshop, Dinh Thi Ngoc Tuyet, 32, looked worn out. She rents space on 23 Thang 10 street to run an auto detailing business, but floodwaters rushed into her shop, soaking machines and supplies.

My husband and I didnt sleep last night. We had to stay awake and keep watch, she said.

Residents could be seen pushing motorbikes and bicycles through flooded alleys to higher ground near 23 Thang 10 street.

The flooding also swept in piles of garbage, which littered the roads.

Nguyen Dinh Anh Minh, chairman of Tay Nha Trang Ward People's Committee, said 25 out of 49 neighborhood zones were submerged. Some areas were under as much as 2 meters of water, including Vo Cang, Vo Canh, Vo Dong, Phu Trung 1, Phu Trung 2, and Phu Binh.

About 1,200 personnel, along with boats, jet skis, and inflatable rafts, were deployed to rescue residents and deliver emergency supplies around the clock.

On the night of November 18, rescue teams successfully evacuated more than 150 people trapped in their homes. Since November 17, authorities in Tay Nha Trang have relocated over 300 households - nearly 600 residents - to safety.

According to the Khanh Hoa Provincial People's Committee, from November 16 to now, floods and landslides have killed 10 people, left two missing, and injured 20 others. Nearly 9,000 homes in 14 wards and communes have been flooded. More than 7,000 hectares of rice and crops were damaged. At least 160 livestock and 11,000 poultry were lost. Many roads were also washed away or eroded.

Initial damage is estimated at approximately 15.2 million USD.

Flooding returns to Nha Trang, submerging neighborhoods overnight.

Residents wade through floodwaters in Tay Nha Trang.

Many were unable to save belongings in time as floods hit again.

Vehicles abandoned in rising waters along 23 Thang 10 street.

Garbage swept in by floodwaters piles up on city streets.

Rescue teams reach isolated zones to help stranded residents.

A neighborhood in Tay Nha Trang surrounded by rising floodwaters.

Xuan Ngoc
A significant milestone in VietnamJapan scientific collaboration was marked on the morning of November 18, with the inauguration of the Analytical Research & Education (R&E) Center at Hoa Lac under Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU).

Director Hoang Minh Son of VNU Hanoi speaks at the opening of the Analytical R&E Center in Hoa Lac.

The event welcomed over 100 delegates, including representatives from the Embassy of Japan in Vietnam, top universities, research institutions, and enterprises from both countries specializing in environmental monitoring and food safety.

The center is a core component of the SATREPS EDFEN project - funded by Japan's Official Development Assistance (ODA) and jointly managed by JICA and JST. It is led by the University of Science (VNU Hanoi) and is designed to develop fast, user-friendly analytical technologies while also training professionals to address national challenges in food safety and environmental protection.

Technology, training, and data: The three pillars of cooperation

Speaking at the launch, VNU Director Hoang Minh Son emphasized the centers dual mission: modernizing scientific infrastructure and applying research outcomes to real-world problems, especially those faced by Hanoi and the nation in safeguarding public health and the environment.

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki praised the SATREPS project for its strategic importance in training human resources and promoting modern analytical technologies.

He said the project aims to train 300 experts over the next five years, helping Vietnam enhance its capacity to analyze environmental and food safety conditions according to global standards. He expressed confidence that stronger partnerships between universities and businesses in both countries will create a solid foundation for sustainable development.

SATREPS: A strategic roadmap for scientific advancement

Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki at the ceremony, praising the projects role in science and education.
According to a recent announcement from the Government Office, the nationwide survey - conducted once every decade - is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of rural development, agricultural production, and rural living standards. The sheer scope of the operation, involving more than 10,000 enumerators and a massive volume of documents, poses a major challenge for coordination, guidance, and data accuracy.

AI-powered solutions to assist enumerators

To enhance implementation efficiency, the General Statistics Office (GSO) has been assigned to boost public communication across multiple channels - from traditional media to grassroots radio and digital platforms.

A dedicated website integrated with artificial intelligence (AI) will be launched to automatically answer queries from surveyors, supervisors, and citizens. Simultaneously, a standardized guidebook will be distributed to help respondents understand how to provide accurate information from the outset.

The Ministry of Science and Technology will help complete the IT system for the census, ensuring data safety, system resilience, and cybersecurity.

In previous surveys, most information was retrieved from paper documents or via Zalo and phone hotlines, leading to slow response times and inconsistencies across regions. To overcome these limitations, the statistical sector has partnered with FPT Group to deploy FPT AI Agents - a virtual assistant system - between July 1 and October 1, 2025.

This solution is embedded directly within the CAPI (Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing) application, which is the main tool used by enumerators, and will also be available via a dedicated web portal for data search and Q&A.

Advanced natural language AI speeds up support

FPT AI Agents leverage natural language processing (NLP) and semantic search to understand questions posed in everyday Vietnamese and retrieve precise information from the official document repository within seconds.

Operating 24/7, the AI system ensures standardized guidance nationwide and can reduce supervisors workloads by up to 60% by automatically responding to frequently asked questions.

It can walk users through the entire survey process step-by-step, extract forms and regulations, and offer contextual support based on the enumerators current data entry form.

Thanks to these capabilities, thousands of hours of manual searching are eliminated. Real-time logic checks help prevent data entry errors and reduce regional discrepancies. All information is instantly synchronized nationwide, improving transparency and boosting the reliability of statistical data.

Ngo Xuan Bach, Director of the AI Product Division at FPT Smart Cloud, noted: FPT.AI is supporting the nations digital transformation journey by tackling complex government challenges.

FPT AI Agents not only improve the effectiveness of this census, but also open up new, smarter, and faster approaches.

Thai Khang
Huong Giang in the national costume round of Miss Universe 2025.

Breaking away from the extravagant designs often seen on international pageant stages, Huong Giang opted for a minimalist white ao dai paired with a Thong Nhat bicycle and a conical hat featuring the iconic red flag with a yellow star.

The moment she stepped on stage, her image quickly spread across social media, receiving an outpouring of admiration. Viewers expressed their emotional response to her thoughtful and elegant costume choice.

Its simple but beautiful - truly Vietnamese, That bicycle brings back childhood memories for generations, and Huong Giang made a strong impression without going over the top were among the most widely shared comments across beauty forums.

Speaking to VietNamNet, designer Ngo Manh Dong Dong revealed that the bicycle was adorned with approximately 300,000 sparkling crystals, with the crystal materials alone costing around 61,000 USD.

As for the ao dai, he selected a cotton-silk fabric, inspired by the traditional Vietnamese student uniform. The design featured a high collar, raglan sleeves, and an A-line silhouette, paired with wide-leg trousers. The outfit aimed for a simple, breathable, and pure aesthetic that stayed true to the traditional spirit of the costume.

Prior to this segment, Huong Giang had already participated in several preliminary activities, including the swimsuit competition, where she received enthusiastic support from fans in Vietnam.

Miss Universe 2025 remains one of the most prestigious beauty contests globally. The final night will take place on November 21.

Huy Minh
The new Cybersecurity Law will provide Vietnam with a stronger legal foundation to counter digital threats and protect national interests in the digital age.

Experts have emphasized that combining Vietnams Cybersecurity Law and the Law on Network Information Security is necessary to improve management consistency, build a unified legal framework, reduce regulatory overlap, and enhance enforcement efficiency in the fast-evolving digital age.

Since officially connecting to the internet 28 years ago, Vietnam has seized the opportunities of telecommunications and internet development to accelerate its industrialization and modernization process.

The country has actively developed and implemented a range of national programs and strategic plans aimed at fostering IT and digital transformation. These include the National Program on IT, the ICT Development Master Plan to 2025 with a vision to 2030, and the 2020 National Digital Transformation Program.

Policies and laws promoting IT application, digital economy growth, and cybersecurity have gradually been refined.

A major milestone came on December 22, 2024, when the Politburo issued Resolution 57-NQ/TW on a national breakthrough in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation - marking a new strategic vision to advance national development in the digital age.

The growing urgency of cybersecurity

In the modern digital environment, cybersecurity and network information security are critical for every country. While technology brings opportunity, cyberspace has also become a source of risk, posing growing threats to national security and public order.

The 13th National Party Congress acknowledged that cybersecurity now has wide-ranging impacts and poses serious threats to the stability and sustainability of nations and regions, including Vietnam.

Cyberattacks, espionage, and data leaks have grown increasingly dangerous and sophisticated.

Hostile forces exploit cyberspace to spread anti-government propaganda, attack national ideology, and undermine state institutions. Cybercriminals use high-tech tools for fraud, illegal gambling, trafficking, and the trade of illicit goods and fake documents.

Complex and persistent threats to information systems

In recent years, Vietnam has witnessed increasingly complex cyberattacks and espionage targeting critical sectors like finance, energy, and telecom. These attacks, often conducted by international hacker groups, have encrypted data and demanded ransoms, causing operational disruptions and major economic damage.

Many network systems still lack robust cybersecurity frameworks. Infrastructure investments reveal security loopholes, and operational protocols are often inconsistent. Some system administrators remain unprepared to respond to or mitigate incidents.

There are continuing cases of classified government data leaks and the illegal collection and sale of personal information.

Some companies, both domestic and foreign, use specialized software to quietly collect and monetize user data - building massive databases for analysis and sale, often without user consent or proper oversight. Employees with privileged access have exploited this data for personal gain.

On social media and underground forums, illegal data trading networks involving thousands of members operate openly.

Meanwhile, digital anti-government propaganda continues to rise, especially amid global and domestic turbulence, political tensions, and leadership transitions. Adversarial groups intensify disinformation campaigns through social platforms during such events.

Legal reform towards unified governance

To address these growing threats, Vietnam passed the Law on Network Information Security in 2015 and the Cybersecurity Law in 2018. These laws have contributed to improving national cybersecurity and countering digital crime.

In line with Resolution 18-NQ/TW (October 25, 2017), the Government issued Decree 02/2025/ND-CP (effective March 1, 2025), which redefines the Ministry of Public Securitys structure for more efficient, centralized governance.

This decree transferred state management of network information security from the Ministry of Information and Communications to the Ministry of Public Security. The Cybersecurity and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department is now responsible for licensing, data regulation, and network safety oversight.

Ten administrative procedures across three public service areas - network security business licensing, import permits for cybersecurity products, and domain name certification - have been reassigned accordingly.

Given this institutional restructuring, revising and merging legal documents has become an urgent priority.

The integration of the two laws must uphold the following principles: no change to agency roles or functions; no introduction of new policies; compliance with the single-responsibility rule in Resolution 18-NQ/TW; and clear delegation of tasks to avoid overlap.

The unified law will only include matters under the National Assemblys authority, leaving specific implementation guidelines to government ministries.

A fast-tracked but thorough legislative process

The National Assembly's Committee on National Defense, Security, and Foreign Affairs has approved the revised draft law, which merges the 2018 and 2015 statutes into a single, streamlined cybersecurity law.

Although the law is being developed under a fast-track procedure, it still follows all legislative standards. The Ministry of Public Security has conducted public consultations, solicited feedback from 58 government bodies, received legal review from the Ministry of Justice, and engaged with various parliamentary and advisory bodies.

At the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly, the draft law received dozens of detailed suggestions in both plenary and committee sessions.

Why the two laws must be merged

Cybersecurity typically refers to protecting systems from attacks that aim to destroy, steal, or disrupt data and critical national infrastructure. Meanwhile, network information security focuses more on safeguarding data integrity and confidentiality during transmission and processing.

While conceptually distinct, these two areas are deeply interrelated and mutually reinforcing.

Unifying the laws will eliminate legal conflicts, enhance operational efficiency, and create a more comprehensive framework for defending against increasingly complex cyber threats.

It will also foster digital economic growth by providing a transparent legal environment for online services and transactions.

From a global perspective, a consolidated law will help Vietnam better cooperate with international partners on cybercrime prevention and investigation - essential in combating transnational digital threats.

Furthermore, it will enhance the protection of citizens personal data and increase legal clarity and compliance for both individuals and businesses.

Whats new in the 2025 Cybersecurity Law

The updated law introduces several notable changes, including a unified definition system and a single lead cybersecurity agency.

Only matters under National Assembly jurisdiction are included, cutting down on repetitive, procedural language to streamline administrative processes.

Key new provisions include:

Mandatory identification of IP addresses by online service providers for cybersecurity authorities

Budget allocations for cybersecurity tasks within government bodies and state-owned enterprises

Promotion of domestic cybersecurity products to build national technological self-reliance

Requirement for cybersecurity certification of individuals managing critical national systems

Strengthened international cooperation, including threat information sharing and joint defense protocols

These reforms will provide Vietnam with a solid legal foundation to meet future digital challenges, safeguard national security, and protect the rights of its citizens in the connected world.

PV
At the talks, the two PMs expressed deep pride in the two nations shared history of struggle for independence, which served as an inspiration for revolutionary movements worldwide and laid a foundation for todays bilateral relationship.



PM Ghrieb voiced satisfaction at the strong progress in various areas of cooperation, reflecting the aspirations of the leaders and people of both countries. Algeria stands ready to create the most favourable conditions for Vietnamese enterprises and act as a gateway for expanding Vietnams economic engagement with Africa, he affirmed.

Algerian PM Sifi Ghrieb at the talks (Photo: VNA)

He underscored the Algerian Governments determination, under the guidance of President Abdelmadjid Tebboune, to maintain and further strengthen the traditional friendship between the two countries.



For his part, PM Chinh emphasised that Vietnam attaches great importance to its traditional friendship as well as close, brotherly solidarity with Algeria.



In this spirit, the two sides agreed to upgrade the bilateral relations to a strategic partnership, affirming their commitments to enhancing all-level and high-level delegation exchanges in a bid to strengthen political foundation and mutual understanding, while expanding cooperation in a wide range of fields through existing mechanisms.



PM Chinh proposed further consolidating political trust, increasing delegation exchanges and prioritising each other in their respective foreign policies. He called on Algeria to continue supporting the Vietnam National Industry  Energy Group (Petrovietnam) in expanding its investment, ensuring stable and effective operations that contribute to Algerias development and stand as a symbol of bilateral cooperation.

PM Pham Minh Chinh (centre) at the talks. (Photo: VNA)

He also urged both sides to foster investment cooperation, open markets for each others key products and boost two-way trade on the basis of balanced benefits. This includes Algeria facilitating Vietnamese enterprises participation in digital transformation projects and cooperation between the two countries businesses in telecommunications.



The Vietnamese leader highlighted defence and security cooperation as a new pillar of the bilateral ties, encouraging participation in each others defence exhibitions and collaboration on cyber-security. PM Chinh proposed stronger agricultural cooperation as well as more cultural and educational exchanges to honour past generations and deepen mutual understanding, particularly among young people. He also requested favourable conditions for the Vietnamese community in Algeria.



PM Chinh suggested establishing specialised sub-committees on science-technology, digital transformation, healthcare, education and labour, and urged the two sides to support joint work between their enterprises through concrete, practical and effective projects. He called on Algeria to back Vietnam in strengthening ties with regional organisations and their member states such as the African Union (AU) and the Arab League (AL).



The two sides agreed to continue coordinating and supporting each other at multilateral forums of which both nations are members, particularly the United Nations and the Non-Aligned Movement, as well as to work together to advance South-South cooperation, raise the profile of developing countries and promote their collaboration in science-technology, digital transformation and emerging development fields.



PM Chinh stated that Vietnam is ready to join international efforts to maintain peace, in the spirit of international solidarity, respect for the rule of law, and adherence to the fundamental principles of the UN Charter.



On the East Sea issue, PM Chinh asked Algeria to support ASEANs stance, and to back freedom of navigation and overflight in the East Sea, on the basis of respecting the legitimate interests of coastal states in line with international law, particularly the 1982 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).



On this occasion, he invited his Algerian counterpart to pay an official visit to Vietnam. The Algerian leader concurred with PM Chinhs proposals and committed to directing relevant local agencies to work closely with Vietnam to implement the agreed orientations effectively.

PM Pham Minh Chinh and PM Sifi Ghrieb witness the signing of the two countries' intergovernmental agreement on cooperation in education. (Photo: VNA)

Immediately after the talks, the two PMs adopted a joint statement on upgrading the bilateral ties to a Strategic Partnership. They also witnessed the signing of six cooperation documents, including the minutes of the meeting of the joint committee for economic, scientific and technical cooperation; a memorandum of understanding (MoU) on housing, urban and city planning; an addendum to a protocol on overall debt settlement between the two governments; and an agreement on educational cooperation. In addition, there were an MoU between the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry and its Algerian counterpart; and a letter of intent between Vietnams Ministry of Industry and Trade and Algerias Ministry of Trade and Export Promotion on initiating negotiations for a pilot preferential trade agreement./.VNA
PM Ghrieb emphasised that PM Chinhs visit and the agreements signed on this occasion help to shape and open up a new chapter in the bilateral relations.



The outcomes realise the aspirations of generations of leaders and peoples of both countries and underscore Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebbounes determination to strengthen cooperation with Vietnam, he said.



The host leader described the discussions as highly effective and practical, reaffirming the significance of bilateral ties and reinforcing the spirit of solidarity between the two governments and peoples in addressing traditional and non-traditional security threats.



PM Ghrieb said both sides reviewed and agreed on concrete measures to promote cooperation across all sectors. He stressed the need to turn the reached agreements into practical, effective actions, aiming to make VietnamAlgeria collaboration a model in international relations generally, and in SouthSouth cooperation in particular.



For his part, PM Chinh emphasised that Vietnam and Algeria share a fundamental core value: mutual support in the struggles for national independence and reunification. He noted that both countries should build on this legacy in their current and future nation-building efforts, aiming for prosperity, civilisation, and well-being.



The leader said that during the talks, he and the Algerian PM reached strong consensus on principles, directions, and measures to further strengthen bilateral relations.



The upgrade of VietnamAlgeria ties to a Strategic Partnership reflects high political trust at all levels, expands the scope of cooperation across all sectors - especially in economy, investment, culture, science and technology, innovation, digital transformation, and education - and identifies economic collaboration as the foundation for deepening and making bilateral relations more substantive and effective.



PM Chinh said with the upgraded ties, the two countries will strengthen solidarity and cohesion to build momentum, promote cooperation for mutual benefits, and enhance high-level and local exchanges to reinforce trust and mutual understanding.



He also welcomed the signing of the cooperation documents and expressed strong support for the proposals and initiatives put forward by the Algerian PM. He urged the two countries ministries and agencies to actively implement the reached agreements and directions, thereby further fostering the Strategic Partnership.



Prior to the press conference, the leaders witnessed the signing of bilateral cooperation documents covering areas such as economy, science and technology, housing, urban planning, public debt resolution, education, and joint research to assess and advance initiatives for negotiating a trade agreement between the two countries./.VNA
VANCOUVER, BC, Nov. 19, 2025 /PRNewswire/ - Readymode, a leading outbound customer engagement platform for sales teams and contact centers, is proud to announce the integration of Agentforce, an innovative Salesforce product. Agentforce is an advanced in-product AI chat solution that now provides real-time, first-line customer support  24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year  directly within the platform.

Agentforce represents a significant leap forward in Readymode's customer experience strategy. It empowers users with immediate, intelligent assistance inside the platform, reduces wait times, and ensures sales agents can remain focused on what they do best: making connections and closing deals. Whether reps are troubleshooting, asking how to optimize call cadences, or navigating account settings, Agentforce ensures frontline support is available when they need it most, without waiting in a queue.

With Agentforce AI Chat, Readymode customers gain:

Immediate, 24/7 Support Availability - No more waiting for business hours or support tickets  Agentforce offers real-time responses at any time, minimizing downtime and keeping teams productive.





- No more waiting for business hours or support tickets  Agentforce offers real-time responses at any time, minimizing downtime and keeping teams productive. Seamless In-Platform Assistance - Integrated directly into the Readymode interface, Agentforce provides contextual, in-the-moment guidance without users needing to leave their workflow or toggle to external help centers.





- Integrated directly into the Readymode interface, Agentforce provides contextual, in-the-moment guidance without users needing to leave their workflow or toggle to external help centers. Scalable, Reliable Help at Any Volume - Agentforce delivers consistent answers, even during peak hours, product updates, or onboarding surges. It intelligently handles high volumes, allowing human support teams to focus on more complex needs.

Improved Experience, Increased Speed & Reduced Downtime

"This is a massive step forward for our customer experience," said Francis Pendon, Director of Customer Support at Readymode. "Our users rely on us during critical business hours  and now, with Agentforce embedded into the product, they're no longer left waiting for answers. It's like having a support expert sitting next to every agent and admin, 24/7."

By automating responses to high-volume inquiries and frequently asked questions, Agentforce dramatically reduces response times and helps users resolve issues on the spot. For sales leaders and admins, this means fewer disruptions, more time dialing, and less need to escalate common issues to support staff.

Strategic Impact for Customers and the Business

"Our goal has always been to deliver faster, more reliable support to our customers," said Jason Jantz, Chief Executive Officer at Readymode. "With Agentforce, we're expanding our support capacity exponentially without sacrificing quality. Customers will experience shorter wait times, quicker resolutions, and greater productivity. And while AI enhances efficiency and responsiveness, we remain fully committed to providing the same human expertise and personalized care our customers value."

AI That Learns and Evolves

Agentforce is trained on product knowledge, help desk interactions, and real-time customer feedback, ensuring its responses are relevant, up-to-date, and continuously improving. The system evolves as customers interact, getting smarter and more helpful over time.

A Smarter Future for Sales Engagement

With Agentforce now live, Readymode strengthens its position as a customer-first, AI-forward platform for high-velocity sales teams. This launch is part of a broader strategy to infuse smart automation across the customer journey, from onboarding and training to support and success.

For outbound call centers looking to boost team efficiency, minimize downtime, and deliver exceptional customer experiences, Readymode's new AI-powered chat is a game-changer.

About Readymode

Readymode is a cloud-based, outbound customer engagement platform for sales teams. Our all-in-one platform empowers businesses to engage smarter, connect more, and grow their revenue. Along with an industry-leading predictive dialer, our outbound calling solutions include advanced features like fully integrated CRM, built-in compliance tools, and real-time reporting and analytics. Readymode is at the core of the conversation; we're designed for businesses that want to maximize productivity and scale affordably.

SOURCE Readymode.com, Inc.
Co-organised by Vietnams Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), Embassy, and Trade Office in Australia, the forum demonstrated the Vietnamese Governments and MoITs attention to the overseas Vietnamese (OV) business community there  one of the largest of its kind, while providing updates on economic developments, business opportunities, and policies encouraging the group to invest and do business in the homeland.



Data presented by the ministry offered OV enterprises useful insights, reflecting Vietnams deepening economic integration and positive results across industrial production, energy, and trade.



The discussion session heard 10 presentations from Vietnamese businesspeople in Australia, highlighting their role in connecting domestic and overseas communities and contributing to Vietnams development. Their comments not only reflected practical business experience in the Australian market but also expressed aspirations and policy recommendations to enhance their role and strengthen linkages with domestic peers.



Opening the forum, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien noted that over the past five years, OV entrepreneurs in Australia have invested more than 1.8 billion USD in Vietnam and brought hundreds of Vietnamese products into major Australian supermarket chains, while also transferring technology and introducing to Vietnam modern management models, ERP solutions, blockchain-based traceability systems, and clean food processing technologies.



The minister stressed that mobilising the resources of OV, especially intellectuals and entrepreneurs, is an essential task for the 2025  2030 period and beyond.



He called on Vietnamese representative agencies in Australia to listen closely to the views of the OV community, particularly businesspeople, and help strengthen connections between them and enterprises at home. He also encouraged Vietnamese entrepreneurs in Australia to provide regular input on socio-economic development, science and technology, innovation, green transition, digital transformation, circular economy, and the knowledge economy. He also asked the group to continue to play a pioneering role in investment and investment attraction in Vietnam, especially in high-tech sectors, clean energy, manufacturing, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence.



Ambassador Pham Hung Tam said Vietnamese businesses in Australia not only participate directly in trade and investment cooperation but also serve as bridges between enterprises and localities of the two countries. They have also taken the lead in social and humanitarian activities, regularly organising fundraising drives to support people in Vietnam affected by natural disasters, contributing to activities for the homelands sea and islands, and assisting Vietnamese students and community members in Australia.



Speaking to Vietnam News Agency correspondents on the sidelines of the forum, Tran Ba Phuc, President of the Vietnamese Business Association in Australia, said an increasing number of OV entrepreneurs in Australia are seeking investment opportunities in Vietnam. He welcomed Resolution 68-NQ/TW, which was issued by the Politburo on May 4 this year and identified the private sector as a key driver of the national economy, noting that overseas entrepreneurs are encouraged by the Vietnamese Governments new policies.



Meanwhile, Do Van Long, founder and CEO of Australia Blockchain, which has a decade of experience in Vietnam, shared that his company plans to connect investors and professional import-export firms in both countries to help integrate technology into quality control during bilateral trade processes. He expressed hope that both the Vietnamese and Australian governments will adopt supportive policies for newly established Vietnamese tech enterprises in Australia./. VNA
Since losing his wife during the Covid-19 pandemic, the modest home of 74-year-old Le Trong Toan in an alley on Xom Chieu Street, Ho Chi Minh City, has remained quiet. He only opens the door when someone hires him for a ride.

Searching for her mother

Mr. Toan points to a childhood photo of his adopted daughter. Photo: Ha Nguyen

For over 40 years, Mr. Toan worked as a local security officer. After retiring due to age, he turned to traditional motorbike taxi driving. His main focus now is to find the American birth mother of his adopted daughter.

Thirty-five years ago, he and his wife adopted a baby girl under extraordinary circumstances. At the time, the couple was grieving the devastating loss of their own children.

In 1981, they welcomed twin daughters. Tragically, both babies passed away within months after falling ill.

Three years later, they had a son. But at just 13 months old, he too became ill and passed away.

Having lost all three of their biological children, the couple was overwhelmed with sorrow. In 1990, a neighbor told Mr. Toan that someone at Da Kao Market (District 1, then part of old Saigon) was looking to give up a baby for adoption.

Mr. Toan went immediately and brought the baby home. He recalls, She was the daughter of a young Black American woman with curly hair. When I arrived, the baby girl was only one month old. Her skin was dark and her hair curly, just like her mothers. I brought her home and raised her as my own. I named her Le Thi Ngoc Anh.

She was so frail then, with pale skin. Fortunately, we were financially stable at the time thanks to our familys beading business, so we could care for her properly.

From the day they brought her home, joy returned to their lives. Mr. Toan and his wife loved Ngoc Anh as their own and provided her with the best care and affection.

Ngoc Anh grew up enveloped in the love of her adoptive parents. However, by fifth or sixth grade, she began developing mental health issues and had to leave school.

Since then, Ngoc Anh has suffered from memory loss and cognitive delays - issues that continue to this day. This is what drives Mr. Toans determination to find her biological mother as he nears the end of his life.

Determined to the end

Ngoc Anh as a baby.

My wife passed away during the peak of the Covid-19 outbreak, leaving just the two of us, he said. Now, at 74, the day Im reunited with my wife isnt far away.

Ngoc Anh is 35 but doesnt have the awareness or agility of others her age. Im afraid that when I pass, shell have no one to rely on.

Thats why Ive made it my mission to find her birth mother. Only if they reunite will I have peace of mind.

Though he is deeply committed, Mr. Toan has no personal information about Ngoc Anhs biological mother. He only remembers that she was a young Black American woman renting a home with other Black tenants near Dinh Tien Hoang Elementary School (old District 1).

She was about 25 or 26 years old when she gave her baby up. Just days later, she flew to the U.S. under a repatriation program for Amerasians. Since then, Mr. Toan has heard nothing more about her.

In addition to seeking help from news outlets, Mr. Toan has sent case files to a Vietnamese-American friend living in the U.S., hoping for assistance.

This friend specializes in connecting adoptees with their biological parents in the U.S. All I know is that Ngoc Anhs mother boarded a flight to San Francisco in 1990. Beyond that, I have nothing, he said.

I know its difficult, but Ill keep trying. When I once asked Ngoc Anh, What will you do when I die? she replied, Ill die too. That answer only deepened my resolve.

Love above all else

Mr. Toan fears his daughter will have no one after hes gone. Photo: Ha Nguyen

He vows to keep searching for her birth mother. Photo: Ha Nguyen

Ngoc Anh has always seen Mr. Toan and his late wife as her true parents. Photo: NVCC
Founded over two centuries ago, the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS) is a world-renowned institution dedicated to advancing surgical excellence, education, and patient care. The Fellowship of the College is recognised internationally as the highest mark of professional achievement for surgeons. The Honorary FRCS is reserved for individuals whose contributions to surgery and medicine have had outstanding and far-reaching impact.



Katrin Kandel, voluntary CEO of Facing The World, the UK charity which helps connects Vietnamese hospitals and doctors with RCS, said this honour acknowledges the two doctors exceptional leadership, surgical skill, and commitment to improving craniofacial and reconstructive care in Vietnam as well as the growing collaboration between Vietnamese and British medical institutions.



This recognition marks an important milestone in strengthening ties between Vietnam and the UK in the pursuit of surgical excellence and humanitarian care, she added.



Katrin also extended special thanks to RCS President Tim Mitchell for his support and encouragement to FTW, whose ongoing partnership with Vietnamese hospitals has been instrumental in advancing surgical training and international cooperation.





Dr. Do Thi Ngoc Linh, told Vietnam News Agency correspondent in the UK that it was an honour to receive FRCS certificate, the highest recognition of surgeons. She said the FRCS award created opportunities for further studies and skill improvement as well as more contributions to patients and the craniofacial and plastic surgery.



She stressed the fact that Vietnamese doctors have been awarded with FRCS certificate proves Vietnams surgical expertise has met international standards, contributing to improving the quality of treatment at home, expanding academic cooperation with world leading medical institutions and inspiring younger doctor to pursue higher standards.



Dr Linh extended thanks to lecturers, colleagues and the Council at RCS and to FTW for supporting Vietnamese doctors in training and academic exchanges, connecting Vietnam with world leading medical institutions and providing medical equipment to Vietnam.

FTW is a UK-registered medical charitable foundation set up in 2002 to treat children from developing countries with craniofacial defects, FTW started operations in Vietnam in 2007.



To date, it has helped provide surgeries for thousands children with craniofacial defects across Vietnam and sent over 100 Vietnamese doctors to world class medical institutions in the UK, Canada, the US and Australia for training. The foundation has also donated in excess of 2.5 million pounds worth of telemedicine technology and surgical equipment to its partner hospitals in Vietnam./.VNA
Wireless pagers device TRND16 causes interference

In early November 2025, residents around Bo Ho, Ben Do Street in Cam Pha Ward, Quang Ninh Province experienced sudden failures of smart keys for cars, motorbikes, and rolling doors.

Vehicle owners said the smart key only worked normally after they moved about 20 meters away from the area. The issue caused concerns about possible signal interference or high-tech theft.

After receiving reports, the Radio Frequency Center Region V (under the Authority of Radio Frequency Management) coordinated with the Department of Science and Technology of Quang Ninh Province to conduct on-site signal measurements on November 12, 2025.

The analysis showed that the interference had originated from a TRND16 wireless vibrating buzzer used for calling drinks in a cafe in the Bo Ho, Ben Do area.

The device had no conformity stamp and suffered a technical fault, causing it to emit continuous signals in the 433.05434.79 MHz band, which is license-exempt for remote-control devices such as smart keys under Circular 08/2021/TT-BTTTT.

After identifying the cause and disconnecting the interference source, all smart keys of cars, motorbikes, and rolling doors in the area returned to normal operation.

QR scanning-device interference

In August 2025, residents living and working in the area around houses No 253, 255, and 269 Kim Ma (Hanoi) encountered a similar phenomenon where motorbikes using smart keys could not be started.

Upon receiving feedback from residents via Fanpage, the Regional Radio Frequency Center I, belonging to the Radio Frequency Department, quickly investigated the problem. After conducting measurements, the authorities identified the "culprit" causing the interference as a QR code scanning device used to compare Vietlott results.

Immediately after the device was dealt with, the smart keys of all vehicles in the area returned to normal operation.

Meeting radio frequency standards

The main cause of these incidents is that radio frequency application devices, when operating, either fail to meet quality standards or experience technical malfunctions.

In May 2025, the Radio Frequency Department detected several cases of interference from cable TV modem power adapters, affecting the operation of car and motorbike smart keys in HCMC.

A representative of the Radio Frequency Department shared that immediately upon receiving the information, Regional Radio Frequency Center II established an interference handling team, accessed the site, surveyed, and measured.

Through professional technical analysis and assessment, Regional Radio Frequency Center II quickly found the cause: a faulty AC/DC power adapter used to supply power to a resident's cable TV and Internet modem.

Due to the faulty adapter, it emitted signals in the frequency range of 10kHz-1000kHz, which propagated along the coaxial cable and radiated into the environment, causing interference on the 125 kHz frequency of car and motorbike transceivers.

According to the owner, when the old adapter broke, they bought an unverified replacement adapter. After listening to an explanation of the situation, the resident cooperated by handing over the device to the authorities for regulated disposal.

In April 2024, an infrared anti-theft fence system was identified in Nha Trang, Khanh Hoa as the source of radio interference that prevented motorbike smartkeys in the surrounding area

Many car owners had complained that their smart keys repeatedly failed to start. Several rolling doors and automatic doors were also affected and became inoperative.

Survey and measurement results showed that within a radius of about 100 meters from the reported area, authorities detected continuous transmissions on the 434 MHz frequency.

Through technical procedures, inspectors identified that the 434 MHz signal was emitted from an electronic anti-climb fence (infrared anti-theft barrier) installed on the wall of a nearby household, which had malfunctioned. This device was confirmed to be the culprit causing interference to smart key systems.

Multiple cases of smart key and rolling-door signal interference have occurred across the country. The main cause was devices that use radio waves but fail to meet technical standards during operation.

After the incidents, the Radio Frequency Department recommended that organizations and individuals should only buy and use transmitting devices that have clear origins, are conformity certified, and have a regulation-compliant conformity stamp affixed.

Counterfeit, smuggled, or technically unchecked devices can cause radio frequency interference, affecting control devices, and security and civilian communication systems.

If people detect unusual smart key interference or signal loss, they can report it via hotline 0862.92.92.92 or to the local Department of Science and Technology.

Thai Khang
HA NOI  Philip Morris Vietnam recently attended the 8th Viet Nam  U.S. Business Summit to strengthen bilateral trade and economic relations.

The summit was jointly organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), the American Chamber of Commerce in Ha Noi (AmCham), and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce in Washington. Philip Morris Vietnam is an affiliate of Philip Morris International (PMI)  one of the worlds leading international consumer goods corporations headquartered in the United States.

The conference was attended by Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son, along with a delegation of senior officials from various ministries and agencies, as well as U.S. Ambassador to Viet Nam Marc Knapper and U.S. Assistant Secretary of State for East Asian and Pacific Affairs Michael DeSombre. The participation of officials from both sides, together with business leaders from Viet Nam and the United States, underscores the growing importance and influence of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

Through the forums at the event, Bryan Ty, General Director of Philip Morris Vietnam, emphasised that Viet Nam is currently facing significant opportunities to shape a future where innovation and public health go hand in hand. With strengths in science and technology, as well as experience in collaborating with government agencies worldwide, including the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Philip Morris also hopes to share the companys achievements in innovative products in Viet Nam.

Specifically, in the United States, PMI collaborates with the FDA to conduct surprise inspections to ensure that the retail system strictly complies with regulations on the legal age of customers purchasing nicotine products. PMI has also established a rigorous monitoring system based on data from the National Youth Tobacco Survey, which is conducted jointly by the CDC and FDA.

Accordingly, PMIs TruAge technology helps retailers detect fake IDs and prevent sales to underage individuals attempting to access smoke-free tobacco products. In addition, through the We Card program, PMI trains retail staff on age verification and provides educational materials and point-of-sale signage to promote responsible selling practices.

In addition, PMI also works closely with U.S. organisations and authorities, such as the United States Council for International Business (USCIB), the International Coalition Against Illicit Economies (ICAIE), International Anti-Corruption Conference (IACC), etc. to combat illicit trade.

At the conclusion of the discussion, Bryan expressed his desire to work closely with the Vietnamese Government and relevant stakeholders to develop a balanced, science-based harm reduction policy. He hopes that public-private collaboration will foster a community of responsible nicotine product users, with the first solid foundation being Philip Morriss commitment to responsible business practices.
HA NOI  Although global foreign direct investment (FDI) is entering a phase of adjustment, contracting and placing greater emphasis on quality, Viet Nam continues to benefit from the regional wave of production repositioning, attracting more than US$31.5 billion in the first 10 months of 2025.

A series of new and expanded FDI projects were licensed in October, bringing total registered FDI in the first 10 months of 2025 to $31.5 billion, up 15.6 per cent year-on-year. Disbursed capital also reached a five-year high of $21.3 billion, marking an increase of 8.8 per cent.

These figures show that Viet Nam remains an attractive destination for foreign investors, who continue to place trust in the countrys growth prospects, investment environment and economic standing, Minister of Finance Nguyen Van Thang said while releasing the data at the 2025 Viet Nam Business Forum.

This statement was reiterated by many different investors at the forum. Chairman of the European Chamber of Commerce in Viet Nam Bruno Jaspaer even referred to Viet Nam as a story of transformation. He said it has changed from an agricultural economy known for putting rice on the table and coffee in every cup each day, into a regional hub for manufacturing, technology and innovation.

The Ministry of Finances Foreign Investment Agency (FIA) noted that manufacturing and processing continued to attract the most FDI. Over the 10-month period, investment in this sector reached $18.2 billion, accounting for more than 57.8 per cent of total registered capital and increasing by 6.8 per cent year-on-year. Along with quantity, the quality of FDI has also been improving as more projects in electronics, AI and semiconductors flow into Viet Nam.

At a recent roundtable on Viet Nams FDI attraction efforts, Le Thi Hai Van, an FIA representative in Washington D.C., US, highlighted investments from Intel, Amkor, NVIDIA, Meta and Google as proof of this trend.

She said American companies are prioritising semiconductors, AI, clean energy, economic infrastructure and health care when investing in Viet Nam, reflecting a shift from quantity to quality.

Seizing the production repositioning wave

This year, the global investment environment has been visibly affected by uncertainties across global supply chains.

According to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, global FDI continues to fall after an 11 per cent decline in 2024. Beyond geopolitical tensions and slowing global growth, FIA noted that the G7's 'near-shoring' and 'friend-shoring' policies aimed at reducing dependence on China have made international investors more cautious about expanding new projects or making long-term commitments, especially in the high-tech, electronics and energy sectors.

Nevertheless, Viet Nams opportunities remain. FIA assessed that although global FDI flows are adjusting, Viet Nam still stands to gain from the regional production shifts, particularly in key sectors such as electronic components, medical equipment and renewable energy.

However, the agency emphasised that Viet Nam must attract large volumes of capital as well as prioritise high-quality investment, including high-tech industries, global value chain integration by domestic enterprises and pushing value-added local products.

Van noted that trade tensions and supply chain shifts offer Viet Nam a major opportunity to become a significant destination, but also present challenges regarding its ability to meet the requirements of high-tech industries.  VNS
HCM CITY  Czechia, located at the heart of Europe, can serve as a strategic gateway for Vietnamese businesses seeking to enter the EU market, President of the Senate of the Parliament of the country, Milos Vystrcil, told a meeting between his visiting delegation and Vietnamese business executives in HCM City on Wednesday.

The delegation, comprising executives from 12 Czech companies, met with more than 50 Vietnamese businesses and city authorities to explore cooperation opportunities.

Vystrcil said Viet Nam possesses advantages that make it an increasingly attractive destination for Czech investors.

We hope Czech businesses will further cooperate and achieve success in Viet Nam.

He added that the Czech Government hopes to see direct flights between the two countries soon to facilitate trade, tourism and cultural exchanges.

Cao Thi Phi Van, deputy director of the citys Investment and Trade Promotion Centre, said HCM City has an economy worth US$123 billion, or 23.5 per cent of Viet Nams GDP, and 66 industrial parks and zones, projected to expand to 105 by 2050.

Its industrial land is expected to increase from 27,000ha to 49,000ha between 2025 and 2030.

The citys strategic priorities include developing a financial centre, building a smart city, promoting innovation, expanding smart ports and logistics networks, and advancing eco-tourism and luxury resorts.

HCM City is soliciting investment in 127 projects, including 20 key ones, in numerous sectors, she said.

As a government agency under the citys Peoples Committee, the ITPC serves as a dynamic bridge between local authorities and domestic and foreign enterprises.

It helps businesses with market information, policy consultation, trade fairs, international conferences, and customised investment promotion services, she added.

B2B networking is expected to expand CzechViet Nam trade, investment and economic development, delivering stronger and more tangible outcomes.

The delegation will be in the country until November 22.  VNS
HA NOI  The Industrial Development Centre (IDC) under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with the Vietnam Textile and Apparel Association (VITAS) and the Korea Institute of Industrial Technology (KITECH), held an international workshop in Ha Noi on November 19, focusing on AI and digital transformation in the textile and garment industry.

IDC Director Chu Viet Cuong underlined that automation is becoming an inevitable trend in the global garment industry. Technologies such as sewing robots, automated cutting systems, AI-powered line balancing and smart production lines are enabling Vietnamese manufacturers to boost productivity, reduce labour dependence, and enhance product quality and consistency.

He added that sustainable fashion supported by AI tools, including 3D design, product lifecycle management, traceability and data-driven production optimisation, is essential for meeting green, circular and low-emission standards.

Viet Nams textile industry now faces an urgent need to modernise technology, raise productivity and comply with increasingly rigorous environmental requirements amid fast-changing global markets. Access to advanced technologies and modern production models is therefore critical and aligns with Viet Nams green transition goals and international commitments. IDC, as the ministrys technical support unit, affirmed it would continue assisting textile enterprises in technological renewal, digital transformation, expert connections and sustainable development.

VITAS Vice Chairman and Secretary-General Truong Van Cam said textile enterprises must now carry out a dual transformation - digitalisation and greening, which has become essential rather than optional. Over the past decades, Viet Nams economy, including the textile sector, has grown strongly with significant foreign direct investment (FDI), in which the Republic of Korea remains one of the leading investors.

By the end of 2024, total FDI from Korean enterprises in Viet Nam is expected to reach around US$90 billion. In the textile sector alone, Korean investors have contributed nearly $6 billion to more than 1,000 active projects, accounting for one-fifth of the sector's total FDI. These enterprises not only operate high-tech projects but also introduce solutions that enhance competitiveness and reduce costs.

Experts noted that while processes such as fabric inspection, cutting and packaging have achieved high levels of automation, sewing continues to lag behind. They outlined a roadmap that includes the use of AI-based vision systems (such as OSHIMA and Morpha AI) for fabric defect detection and KUKA robots for packaging. They emphasised that achieving success relies not only on investing in machinery but also on having a clear strategic direction and adapting hybrid systems to fit each factory's unique conditions.

On sustainability, Cold-Pad-Batch (CPB) dyeing technology is emerging as a key solution for low-emission knit fabric production. This greener method is considered the future of textile dyeing and offers strong economic benefits. Data show that CPB can reduce utility costs for water, steam, electricity and salt by 72.8 per cent and cut emissions by 0.3359 kg of CO per kilogramme of fabric compared with traditional dyeing processes.

Digital transformation and the adoption of AI/3D technologies are also reshaping the fashion industry. Digitalisation is the first essential step in turning data into digital assets, enabling the use of AI and Big Data. Integrating 3D and AI tools from platforms such as Adobe (Substance 3D, GenAI) and CLO Virtual Fashion significantly shortens product development cycles and increases efficiency and sustainability. Adobe technologies can create digital samples four times faster than physical ones, while CLOs ecosystem with tools like AI Pattern Drafter and Auto Fitting Tool aims to replace up to 90 per cent of physical samples with 3D models.

According to Cam, digital transformation helps enterprises move faster, enhance competitiveness and improve product and process quality. Meanwhile, green transition is a prerequisite for long-term and sustainable development, as is complying with strict global standards. With 85% of Vietnams textile output exported, enterprises must meet international requirements on sustainability, labour standards and environmental management across the supply chain.

VITAS expects the workshop to generate practical cooperation opportunities between Vietnamese enterprises and international partners, especially those from the RoK.  VNA/VNS
TOKYO  Two investment promotion conferences held by a delegation from Tay Ninh in Tokyo and Osaka have attracted a large number of Japanese participants, reflecting the strong interest of local businesses in the potential of the southern Vietnamese province.

During its working trip to Japan from November 16  22, the delegation, led by Secretary of the provincial Party Committee Nguyen Van Quyet, is set to carry out a series of investment-promotion activities, business-environment presentations and labour-cooperation initiatives.

The Tokyo conference took place on November 19, where Pham Tan Hoa, Vice Chairman of the Tay Ninh Peoples Committee, affirmed that the province prioritises high-quality investment, guided by the principles of efficiency, technology and environmental sustainability. He pledged that the authorities would maintain a transparent investment environment, streamline administrative procedures, and regard business success as the provinces own.

Tay Ninh currently hosts 176 Japanese foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a combined capital of more than US$1.26 billion.

Vietnamese Ambassador to Japan Pham Quang Hieu highlighted the localitys strategic position along the HCM City  Cambodia  mainland ASEAN economic corridor, its rapidly improving infrastructure, abundant young workforce and its authorities constructive approach. He affirmed that the embassy would continue to support Japanese enterprises interested in investing in Tay Ninh and help promote concrete, sustainable projects.

Hirano Kenichi, Vice President of the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO) Tokyo, cited survey data showing that more than 56 per cent of Japanese firms in Viet Nam plan to expand operations in the next one to two years, the highest rate in ASEAN. Tay Ninh, he noted, stands out thanks to its connectivity advantages and strengths in industrial and logistics development.

He added that JETRO would continue supporting Japanese companies through Viet NamJapan start-up networking programmes, initiatives to increase local procurement of components to enhance production value in Viet Nam, and assistance in recruiting senior Vietnamese personnel.

Sharing insights from long-term business experience, Katsuhiko Usui, General Director of Sapporo Viet Nam, said the Sapporo Group conducted extensive surveys before choosing Tay Ninh (then within Long Ans administrative boundary) for its investment 16 years ago. The provinces proximity to HCM City and its favourable links to seaports and waterways offer advantages for distribution and export. More importantly, the close support of local authorities throughout the project-preparation phase has strengthened investors confidence.

He expressed hope that Japanese enterprises seeking opportunities in Viet Nam would look to Tay Ninh, and affirmed that Sapporo is ready to share its investment experience.

The conference concluded with the signing of several important memoranda of understanding, including one between Obayashi Corporation and the Tay Ninh economic zone authority on supporting Japanese enterprises in hydrogen-energy transition within local industrial parks, and another between Toyota Long An and Corolla Fukusima on expanding investment in Tay Ninh.

Earlier, a similar conference was held in Osaka on November 17, attracting around 120 Japanese delegates.

In his opening remarks, Hoa expressed the wish that Tay Ninh could expand substantive, long-term cooperation with the Kansai region. He noted that the province has already established ties with Hyogo, Wakayama, Ibaraki and Okayama prefectures.

In Osaka, numerous cooperation agreements were also signed, including a partnership between the Long An International Port and the Port of Kobe, and a pact between the Viet NamJapan Economic Promotion Association and Tay Ninh Department of Industry and Trade to support local businesses in exhibiting and exporting products to Japan.

On the sidelines of the events, in an interview with Vietnam News Agency correspondents, Kamibayashiyama Masao, General Director of Sumitomo Forestry Vietnam  an investor in Tay Ninh since 2010, assessed that the province would remain a fast-growing area of southern Vietnam and expressed hope that the local authorities would continue administrative reforms to shorten licensing procedures.

Tokumoto Ryuji of Shoko Bussan expressed his wish to boost two-way trade, particularly the export of Vietnamese coffee to Japan.  VNA/VNS
Ten years of tug-of-war

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This year marks the 10th anniversary of the tug-of-war ritual recognised by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage, highlighting the rich traditions of Viet Nam, South Korea, the Philippines and Cambodia. A lively event at Tran Vu Temple in Ha Noi brought together communities, fostering cultural exchange and celebrating shared heritage. Let's watch our video to enjoy this vibrant tradition that symbolises unity, strength and the hopes for a prosperous future!